Changes: Grey Wardens

Revision as of 15:50, 16 July 2020

“The Maker smiles sadly on his Grey Wardens, so the Chantry says, as no sacrifice is greater than theirs.”^[1]

The Grey Wardens are an Order of warriors of exceptional ability dedicated to fighting darkspawn throughout Thedas. They are headquartered in the very place of their founding, Weisshaupt Fortress in the Anderfels, but maintain a presence in most other nations as well.

The Grey Wardens are known for ignoring a recruit's racial, social, national, and even criminal background if they deem the person valuable in terms of character, ability or skill.

Despite their small numbers, the Grey Wardens have been instrumental in defeating each Blight so far, and thus are vital to the survival of the world as a whole.

History

“You will guard them and they will hate you for it. Whenever there is not a Blight actively crawling over the surface, humanity will do its best to forget how much they need you. And that's good. We need to stand apart from them, even if they have to push us away to make us do it. That is the only way we can ever make the hard decisions.” ―Kristoff, Commander of the Grey of Orlais during the Blessed Age^[2]

First Blight and founding

To the wisest I sang, To the wing'd cup-bearers of the tall sky-vaulting...
— Chant of Light, Canticle of Andraste 1:3^[3]

The First Blight began in -395 Ancient (800 TE) and lasted 192 years. The Deep Roads, underground highways built by dwarves, were swarmed with monstrous creatures that became known as "darkspawn". These creatures seemed limitless in number, and spread a Taint that infected other living creatures, mutating them into monsters, and corrupted and poisoned the very environment around them. The cult of the Maker claimed this was the result of Tevinter magisters entering the Fade through a ritual and attempting to usurp the throne of the Maker in the Golden City, although this theory has been disputed by others, most notably the dwarves. Nevertheless, this invasion of darkspawn — named the Blight — soon destroyed most of the underground kingdoms of the dwarves and spread to the surface world. Thedas was in chaos and entered a dark age. The darkspawn were found to be led by an immensely powerful dragon tainted with the darkspawn corruption; this creature was named an Archdemon and believed to be one of the Old Gods worshiped by Tevinter.

At Weisshaupt fortress in the desolate Anderfels, a meeting transpired. Soldiers of the Imperium, seasoned veterans who had known nothing their entire lifetimes except war, came together. When they left Weisshaupt, they had renounced their oaths to the Imperium. Calling themselves the Grey Wardens, they swore that they would accept anyone, no matter their race or background, without distinction if only deemed suitable to join the Order.^[4]

The Wardens began an aggressive campaign against the darkspawn, reclaiming lands that most had given up for lost. They proved to be a desperately needed spark of hope in the darkest of hours, and quickly gained renown. During the next 100 years, humanity slowly managed to stand firm and push back the Blight. Finally, in -203 Ancient (992 TE), the Grey Wardens gathered an allied army composed of soldiers from the Tevinter Imperium, the tribes of the Ciriane (the lands that would become Orlais), and Rivain to confront the main darkspawn horde, led by the Archdemon now identified as Dumat. A massive battle was waged at the Silent Plains, in what is now the border between Tevinter and Nevarra. The legion of darkspawn was defeated and Dumat was slain by the Grey Wardens; with the Archdemon's death, the horde's will to fight on was broken. It took several years to eradicate the remaining darkspawn from the surface, but the Blight was over and the Grey Wardens had carved out their legend. After the Battle of the Silent Plains, they were much celebrated and most nations gave formal promises of support for further darkspawn invasions. They were also given the Right of Conscription, to guarantee sufficient recruits.^[5]

The following information is only mentioned in Dragon Age Tabletop. Certain portions of this media may no longer reflect currently established lore.

Several notable dwarven warriors, led by Paragon Moroc the Maul, were also present at the Grey Wardens' founding and are a key reason why there is no loss of caste associated with becoming a Grey Warden. They shared all they had learned about the darkspawn with their Warden allies.^[6] A group of the Orth people from the Wandering Hills and the northern reaches of the Hunterhorn Mountains, who knew how to "tame" griffons, also joined the Grey Wardens ranks and teach them how to ride the beasts in battle. Although there are no written records about it, it is widely believed that the Grey Wardens took their name from the griffons' grey coloration.^[7]

Second Blight

A Grey Warden[8]

In 1:5 Divine, approximately 200 years since the slaying of Dumat, the Archdemon Zazikel rose to lead the Second Blight. The entire city of Nordbotten — the very place where the Grey Wardens first appeared on the battlefield — was destroyed before a defense could be organized. The Tevinter Imperium withdrew from the Anderfels, abandoning it in an attempt to protect central Tevinter. The Anderfels region was hard-hit, and even the Grey Warden headquarters in Weisshaupt came under siege by the darkspawn.

Fortunately, the armies of the recently founded Orlesian Empire under the command of Emperor Kordillus Drakon I proved both motivated and capable of standing up to the Blight. After several victories against the darkspawn, Drakon's army lifted the siege of Weisshaupt in 1:33 Divine and proceeded to save the rest of the Anderfels together with the Wardens. The Anderfels joined the Orlesian Empire and the Grey Wardens converted to the Chantry.^[9]

In the following decades, the Blight was again slowly pushed back and the Grey Wardens took command of the war. The Archdemon Zazikel was finally confronted and slain by the Grey Warden Corin in 1:95 Divine at Starkhaven in the Free Marches.

Glory Age to Towers Age

The following information is only mentioned in Dragon Age Tabletop. Certain portions of this media may no longer reflect currently established lore.

After the second Blight, the Grey Wardens actively remained vigilant for another Blight. Although there were no major darkspawn incursions to the surface during this period of time, the Wardens fought many small war bands of darkspawn that periodically appeared in surface lands. They also sent small groups of Wardens to help Orzammar in its fight against the darkspawn in the Deep Roads. When the Chantry declared their Exalted March against the Dales, the Grey Wardens refused to get involved in that conflict.^[10]

Third Blight

The Third Blight began with the awakening of Toth in 3:10 Towers, roughly 115 years after the last Blight. The initial darkspawn attacks occurred in central Thedas in Tevinter and Orlais, but even though the hordes were larger than those previously encountered, a rapidly organized defense led by the Grey Wardens managed to hold them back. The darkspawn attacks started to focus on the more lightly defended Free Marches while Tevinter and Orlais tried to remain neutral, but pressure from the Grey Wardens eventually brought them into the war. The darkspawn horde was crushed at Hunter Fell in the Free Marches in 3:25 Towers, and Toth was slain by the Grey Wardens. The Third Blight remained a relatively short event compared to previous Blights.

The following information is only mentioned in Dragon Age Tabletop. Certain portions of this media may no longer reflect currently established lore.

After the Third Blight, the Grey Wardens became more involved in the politics of the nations of Thedas, although they also remained ever vigilant against the darkspawn menace.^[10]

Fourth Blight

“Garahel always used to say that heroism was just another word for horror, and maybe a worse one. A hero always feels that he has to do what's right. Sometimes that leads to tormenting himself with doubt long after the deed is done. Or herself...” ―Amadis Vael, princess-captain of the Ruby Drakes mercenary company, and lover of Garahel^[11]

There are few records of Grey Warden activity during the next 200 years, until Andoral awakened and the Fourth Blight began in 5:12 Exalted. Most of the damage was to the east of traditional Grey Warden territory, in the Free Marches, Antiva, and Rivain, but the Anderfels was also attacked and Hossberg, not far from Weisshaupt, came under siege. This time, both Tevinter and Orlais were lightly attacked and refused to send aid. The hero of the Fourth Blight was an elven Grey Warden named Garahel, who first led the liberation of Hossberg in 5:20 Exalted and then managed to gather an army from the Free Marches to support the Grey Wardens. After a long and bloody war, Garahel's army marched north and faced the main horde in 5:24 Exalted at Ayesleigh, where Garahel perished after personally slaying Andoral.

The Grey Wardens' legendary griffons died out some time after the Fourth Blight.^[12]

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Last Flight.

Records unearthed during the Dragon Age revealed that the griffons died out as a result of being subjected to a modified version of the Joining by Warden Isseya, on the First Warden's orders.^[13]

Exalted Age to Dragon Age

After the Fourth Blight, the influence of the Grey Wardens waned considerably. It would be 400 years before the Fifth Blight, and many started to think it would never happen. So many darkspawn were slain during the Fourth Blight that many came to the erroneous conclusion they were defeated permanently. Although remaining an eternal threat to the dwarves, darkspawn were rarely seen by surface people, and the Grey Wardens were slowly dismissed as a relic of a bygone, darker time best left forgotten.

See also: Battle of Soldier's Peak

In 7:5 Storm, there was an awkward incident in Ferelden with the local Warden-Commander—Sophia Dryden, previously a rival for the crown of Ferelden—becoming involved in a planned coup d'état. The result was fighting between the Grey Wardens and the royal army, the loss of Commander Sophia and her command at Soldier's Peak, and King Arland banishing the Order from Ferelden. The Grey Wardens were allowed back in Ferelden by King Maric in 9:10 Dragon. They were able to begin a slow rebuilding, but by 9:30 Dragon, their presence remained light and the Order was neither well known nor held in high regard by Ferelden's people: there were a bare handful of Wardens in Ferelden at the time, many of whom were non-Fereldans moved there to help rebuild the Fereldan contingent.

The following information is only mentioned in Dragon Age Tabletop. Certain portions of this media may no longer reflect currently established lore.

The refusal of the Wardens to help the other nations of Thedas against the Qunari during the Steel Age also earned them the enmity of many courts.^[10]

Involvement

Dragon Age: Origins

Main article: Fifth Blight

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening.

In 9:30 Dragon, the Fifth Blight begins after The Architect, trying to free the darkspawn from the call of the Old Gods, gives Grey Warden blood to the unearthed Old God Urthemiel, believing it would unravel the darkspawn's compulsion to seek the Old Gods at its source. However, the experiment goes horribly wrong and instead results in the awakening of a new Archdemon.

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Origins.

The darkspawn swarm the Korcari Wilds in southern Ferelden, where they are met by the Fereldan army under King Cailan and Teyrn Loghain, as well as all of Ferelden's Grey Wardens. After a few minor victories against the darkspawn, the royal army is devastated in a major battle at Ostagar when Loghain unexpectedly withdraws, leaving King Cailan and the Grey Wardens to their deaths. All but two Grey Wardens (Alistair and The Warden) are slain in the ensuing massacre; both survivors were new recruits to the Order.

After Loghain installs himself as regent of Ferelden, he denounces the Fereldan Grey Wardens as traitors and has the Orlesian Grey Wardens that have come to assist Ferelden turned back at the border, believing the Wardens' claims about the Blight a ruse to assist in a new Orlesian conquest of Ferelden. His actions ignite a civil war, as many nobles either disbelieve his explanation regarding Ostagar or are outraged by the brutal measures he has taken to hold a throne he has no claim to. The infighting allows the darkspawn to advance into Ferelden unopposed. When the Grey Wardens of Orlais receive no word of the outcome of the battle at Ostagar, they dispatche a Grey Warden native to Ferelden, Riordan, to gather more information. They are unwilling to send more, as expending themselves against Loghain would then risk the Blight devastating all of Thedas once again. They remain vigilant, should Ferelden fall to the Blight.

Despite the odds, the two remaining Fereldan Grey Wardens are able to organize an allied army to oppose the Blight using old treaties, and with the aid of Riordan, slay Urthemiel during the Battle of Denerim. Lasting just over a year, the Fifth Blight is by far the shortest Blight in history. In acknowledgement of their efforts, the Grey Wardens are granted the Arling of Amaranthine to allow them to rebuild. This marks the first time that the Order has been granted a region to govern, a gesture that attracts the interest of the First Warden in Weisshaupt.

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Warden's Fall.

A contingent of Orlesian Grey Wardens, led by Warden Kristoff, are sent to Ferelden to chase down darkspawn stragglers during the Thaw Hunt. Even in their flight, the darkspawn cause great destruction across Ferelden. The most violent hunts take place in the Arling of Amaranthine.

Dragon Age: Awakening

Main article: Amaranthine Conflict (9:31 Dragon)

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening.

While rebuilding the Grey Wardens presence in Ferelden and establishing Vigil's Keep, a fortress given to the Wardens at the end of the Fifth Blight as a new base of operations, the newly appointed Warden-Commander is faced with a new challenge. Despite the defeat of the Archdemon, the darkspawn have not returned underground and a new variety of sapient, speaking darkspawn called Disciples and abominations to darkspawn called The Children have been discovered. Two entities, named The Architect and The Mother, seem to lead these factions. Dealing with them changes the fate of the darkspawn forever. Subsequently, the Wardens return to rebuilding their presence in Ferelden and repairing the damage done to the Arling by the conflict, simultaneously consolidating their control over their new territory. After the end of the darkspawn's civil war, the Grey Wardens begin to hunt and capture some of the Disciples in order to investigate them.^[14]

Dragon Age II

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age II.

If Avernus survived the Fifth Blight and was allowed to continue his research:

The Warden-Commander of Ferelden worked with Avernus to uncover the true potential of the Joining ritual. This research was allowed by the First Warden, who was also interested in the old mage's research, and reports were sent to Weisshaupt on a regular basis. However, the results of the research hinted at the dangers of unlocking the latent abilities of the Grey Warden's blood.^[15]^[16]

If Nathaniel survived the events of Awakening:

The Grey Wardens take great interest in the Primeval Thaig. In 9:37 Dragon, the First Warden commissions Nathaniel Howe to lead a special expedition to learn more about it.^[17]

After Warden-Commander Larius of the Free Marches went on his Calling, Senior Warden Janeka was left in command of a prison in the Vimmark Mountains which had been holding the darkspawn Corypheus since the Ancient Age.^[18] She eventually became convinced that Corypheus held the key to ending the Blights.

Between 9:31 and 9:37 Dragon, Janeka forces member of a Carta cell to drink darkspawn blood and uses them to track down the descendants of Malcolm Hawke, whose blood is the key to Corypheus' prison. When Hawke investigates the prison, they inadvertently release Corypheus, who escapes death by possessing the body of either Janeka or Larius.

Dragon Age: Last Flight

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Last Flight.

The Wardens at Weisshaupt Fortress begin to search into records and materials from the Fourth Blight for past incidents of Wardens acting strangely. They are also searching for any records of encounters with sapient darkspawn capable of speech. In response to the Mage-Templar War, the Grey Wardens offer amnesty to any mages or Templars wishing to escape the fighting, on the condition of their taking the Joining and entering the Order. The Wardens also invoke the Right of Conscription on such mage recruits to keep them from being harmed by the Templars.^[19]

In Orlais, two different groups of Grey Wardens conspicuously abandon their assigned hold, selling off their spare horses and livestock at a fraction of their value. According to locals, these Wardens withdrew in a hurry. No readily apparent explanation was found.

In the Anderfels, the Grey Wardens recover a clutch of thirteen live Griffon hatchlings from Red Bride's Grave.^[20]

Dragon Age: Inquisition

Main article: War against the Elder One

See also: Siege of Adamant Fortress

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Inquisition.

During the Divine Conclave in the Temple of Sacred Ashes, a group of Grey Wardens —enthralled by Corypheus— aid the magister darkspawn in sacrificing Divine Justinia V to power the Orb of Destruction. The ritual's interruption by the Herald of Andraste led to a cataclysmic explosion that destroyed the temple and caused The Breach. As every Grey Warden in Orlais begins to hear the Calling —a bluff elicited by Corypheus and a massive Fear demon called the Nightmare— they grow desperate and seek allies to help them accomplish their mandate before they perish. All southern Grey Wardens are summoned to Orlais,^[21] which is why all Wardens in Ferelden save Blackwall ended mysteriously vanished. Lord Livius Erimond, a Venatori Magister, convinces Warden-Commander Clarel to use blood magic techniques to raise a demon army, invade the Deep Roads and kill the remaining Old Gods before they wake. Unbeknownst to the Grey Wardens, the demon binding rituals Erimond taught the Grey Warden mages enslaved them to Corypheus, who would use them and the demon army they summoned to conquer Thedas.

A senior Warden (that can be either Stroud, Alistair, or Loghain Mac Tir, based on the player's choices in past games) that was researching Corypheus at the time, is branded a traitor for protesting Warden-Commander Clarel's plan to use Erimond's blood magic rituals and goes into hiding. The fugitive Warden, Hawke, and the Inquisitor scout the ancient Tevinter ritual tower in the Western Approach to investigate a Grey Warden congregation and learns the truth of the Venatori's blood sacrifice rituals.

Hawke and the fugitive Warden join the Inquisition as they lay siege to Adamant Fortress. They confront Erimond and Clarel about the truth of the demon binding ritual and attempt to sway the Wardens to their side. When Erimond summons Corypheus' dragon to deal with the Inquisition, Clarel realizes the truth and turns on him. The dragon attacks and a massive battle against the Warden mages enthralled by Corypheus and their bonded demons ensues. Clarel inflicts her wrath on Erimond, but is killed by the dragon he summoned. Her last spell against the dragon causes it to crash, leading the ground beneath them to crumble. As the Inquisitor's party falls off the ramparts, they use their mark to open a rift that transports them to the Fade.

The Inquisitor escapes the Fade and banishes the remaining demons. Their defeat of the Nightmare demon frees the Grey Warden mages of its control. The Inquisitor then decides the fate of the surviving Grey Wardens —either let them aid the Inquisition to atone for their atrocities or banish them from Orlais.

If the Inquisitor banishes the Grey Wardens:

The surviving Grey Wardens of Adamant return to Weisshaupt, and it is believed that a battle for control of the Order erupts soon after. If the Warden ally survived the events of Adamant, it's rumored he is leading a rebellion to change the Order from within. Eventually, even the Grey Wardens from the northern nations begin to retreat to Weisshaupt and rumors that the Order is on the verge of vanishing begin to spread, while all news from Weisshaupt cease.

If the Inquisitor allied with the Grey Wardens:

The southern Grey Wardens begin to slowly rebuild after helping the Inquisition stop a particularly dangerous darkspawn incursion, and declare that the Order must change, becoming more open to the general populace. It's rumored that the southern Grey Wardens sever ties with their leaders at Weisshaupt and that both Warden factions are at war. Eventually, all news from Weisshaupt cease.

This section contains spoilers for:
Trespasser.

If Rainier was recruited into the Grey Wardens:

Warden Rainier mentions that the Grey Wardens are presently in a state of upheaval and there have been various heated arguments about the future of the Order.

Dragon Age: Tevinter Nights

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Tevinter Nights.

The plot follows BioWare's own canon, meaning it may not follow some of the player's choices in the games.

The Horror of Hormak
Investigating the disappearance of Warden Jovis' mining expedition leads Wardens Ramesh and Lesha to discover ancient elven ruins in the Deep Roads, where a massive pool of viscous gray liquid causes darkspawn to mutate in disturbing ways. Jovis himself has turned into a centipede hybrid after drinking the liquid. He retains enough of his consciousness to tell them to destroy the pool, to prevent "her" from having it again. Lesha sacrifices herself to collapse the ruins and give Ramesh the chance to warn the other Wardens, as this place was only one of twelve depicted in the ruins.

Hunger

While answering Weisshaupt's summons for all available Wardens, Evka Ivo and Antoine help resolve the village of Eichweill's supposed curse.

Organization

“We are Wardens! One and all! Fight's for justice, shield's for vengeance! Crush our enemies! One and all!”

—Grey Warden song^[22]

The Order of Grey Wardens is commanded by the First Warden in Weisshaupt, and consists of a system of semi-autonomous national branches lead by a local commander. Though there is a hierarchy, in practice this is frequently defined by seniority (decided by time of Joining) in the Order.

In 9:30 Dragon, the strength of the Grey Wardens is estimated at over 1,000 in the Anderfels, several hundred in Orlais, and around two dozen in Ferelden, with unknown numbers in other nations and the Free Marches.

The official hierarchy of the Grey Wardens, in descending order, is:^[23]

First Warden: Permanently situated at Weisshaupt fortress. The First Warden is mainly a political figure since the griffon extinction, and most military command falls to the Warden-Commanders.
High Constable: Second-in-command to the First Warden, and formerly the aerial commander during the Wardens' use of griffons.^[24] Recently, the High Constable has become the public face of the Order, acting as the ambassador to the High King and leading local recruitment.
Chamberlain of the Grey: The senior archivist at Weisshaupt, and to whom Warden-Commanders send yearly reports. The Chamberlain technically outranks the Warden-Commanders.
Commander of the Grey: Also known as Warden-Commander. The leader of the Grey Wardens in a given country, and under normal circumstances under little direction by the Order. The dwindling communications between Weisshaupt and the branches leave most Warden-Commanders to run their respective branches as they see fit. They can be summoned to Weisshaupt by the First Warden at any time.
Field-Commander: A temporary rank used only in times of Blight. A Field-Commander has the same rank and responsibilities of a Warden-Commander in a given area.^[25]
Constable of the Grey: A Warden-Commander's second-in-command, the Constable, colloquially called Warden-Constable, acts as the field commander and steps in when the Warden-Commander is away.
Senior Warden (or Warden-Lieutenant in Orlais): The formal title given to veteran Wardens who deserve special privilege. When a Constable of the Grey is in command, they usually take a Senior Warden to act as their second-in-command. Senior Wardens may command a small group of Wardens or undertake special missions.
Archivist: The archivist of a given national Grey Warden branch.^[26]
Warden-Ensign: Generally just called Wardens, these are the rank-and-file members of the Order who have survived the Joining ritual.
Acolyte: The rank given to the rank-and-file Warden mages.^[27]
Warden-Recruit: An individual selected to join the Wardens but who has not yet undertaken the Joining ritual. They are given a formal rank just for committing themselves to the Wardens, regardless of whether or not they survive the Joining. Failed recruits' names are kept in the archives of Weisshaupt in honour of their sacrifice.

Recruitment and the Right of Conscription

"Men and women from every race; warriors and mages, barbarians and kings..."

—Duncan, Ferelden's Commander of the Grey

The Grey Wardens are open to men and women from every race, nation and background, even criminals. They also accept volunteers, and elves in particular tend to be eager to submit themselves for the Grey Wardens, as they recruit regardless of social standing and serving is considered by many an honor.^[12]

One mage in every Circle of Magi is traditionally recruited,^[12] usually joining the Order after their Harrowings.^[28] The young mage recruit serves as a Warden their entire life from then on. Similar to serving a ruler, yet greatly removed from the degradation they may normally face in society, mage Wardens are given great respect and importance in the Order. Their facilitation of the Joining ritual is essential.^[12]

Should they need to, the Grey Wardens possess the Right of Conscription, an authority that dates back to the end of the First Blight and was given to them to ensure they will always have enough members. By using this Right, a Warden may demand that, instantly and irrevocably, any individual from king to criminal be drafted into their ranks, and the conscript cannot refuse being recruited once the Right is invoked. This is specially true in times of Blight.

However, in contemporary times the Right of Conscription is used sparingly for fear of political reprisal, due to the low standing the Order has in some countries—especially in Ferelden. The Grey Wardens prefer to not invoke the Right unless there is no other option, and usually is invoked only to quell protest from a recruit's lords or commanders.

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: The Calling.

Duncan was recruited via the Right of Conscription, after he refused the offer originally. As he was about to be executed at the time for killing another Warden, Guy, this caused political trouble both within and without the Wardens.

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Origins.

Duncan used the Right to get Alistair out of his Templar training when the Chantry's Grand cleric resisted. The Right can also be used on the Warden during their origin to ensure that they join the Grey Wardens. It is used automatically on the City Elf, Dwarven Commoner, Dwarven Noble, and Mage to spare them from various grisly fates, and can be used on the Dalish Elf or Human Noble if they initially refuse Duncan's offer.

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening.

The Warden-Commander can choose to use the Right of Conscription to recruit both Anders and Nathaniel Howe.

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Last Flight.

After the outbreak of the Mage-Templar War, the First Enchanter of the Hossberg Circle sends a request for aid to Weisshaupt Fortress; in response, the Wardens invoke the Right of Conscription, proclaiming that any mage who wished to escape the fighting by joining the Wardens would be welcome in their ranks, and that such mages are not to be troubled by the templars.^[19]

The following information is only mentioned in Dragon Age Tabletop. Certain portions of this media may no longer reflect currently established lore.

While most people believe that someone must truly hate darkspawn to join the Grey Wardens, in most cases the potential recruits are just responsible individuals with a strong sense of will. In fact, most Grey Wardens see their first darkspawn only after becoming initiates of the Order. More so, veteran Wardens consider that having a personal hatred of the darkspawn can be detrimental to a Warden if it leads them to make rash and irrational decisions.^[29]

The Grey Wardens don't accept just anyone within their ranks, however. Only the best and brightest are allowed. Recruits suffer excruciating tests to determine if they are worthy of being members of the Order.^[7] In addition, the fact that the Joining ritual kills many of its participants means that the draft may turn out to be a death sentence. While this is seen as unfortunate, this process elevates their membership to the highest caliber. To face a Grey Warden in combat, is to face an elite and deadly opponent.^[30]

The Joining

Main article: Joining

To become part of the Grey Wardens, a recruit must first go through a secret ritual called the Joining.

Philosophy and methods

“The Grey Wardens hold a lonely vigil, enduring lives of hardship and sacrifice to protect the world from an evil that can never truly be conquered. Few would volunteer for this: the suffering, isolation, and promise of a violent death. But the path of a Warden is also one of valor, and those who give themselves to the cause are rewarded with the knowledge that they have become something more than they were.^[31]”

The following information is only mentioned in Dragon Age Tabletop. Certain portions of this media may no longer reflect currently established lore.

The Grey Wardens are aware that they are fighting a war of attrition against the darkspawn, and that they are in the losing side. Because of that, they know that they will have to use whatever tactic they can devise, no matter how unorthodox, to win in the end. And so, they acquire whatever resources they can regardless of the method, and employ whomever they must, regardless of their defects of morals or character. They often turn a blind eye to blood magic, deal with demons of the Fade, and do whatever else they must so long as those efforts led to the Blight's end.^[30]

While it is easy to assume that all Grey Wardens want nothing more than to end all Blights forever, some individual Wardens have such zeal for the fight that they wish only for a lifetime of tests and war, however.^[29] This means that the ranks of the Order are filled with dangerous men and women, some unscrupulous in the extreme, but the Wardens make a point of suspending judgment of any who are effective against the darkspawn.^[30]

Even for their willingness to use any tactic, however, a philosophical split—unknown to people not associated with the Order—has long divided the Grey Wardens into two distinct factions: the ones who feel that the eradication of darkspawn is paramount, and the ones who see their protective mission as the greatest purpose of their calling.^[30]

For instance, if a village is under attack by a host of darkspawn, the Grey Wardens oriented to protection would chance alerting the darkspawn to their presence by warning the villagers of the danger, helping them to safety as best as they can before facing the monsters; while those oriented to destruction would be more likely to sacrifice the village before springing a more effective ambush on the darkspawn. The dead villagers, in their minds, are an unfortunate but necessary sacrifice.^[30]

However, while Grey Wardens are expected to do their duty whatever it takes, they are frequently admonished to avoid offending local authorities where at all possible. Although in times past the authority of the Grey Wardens was unquestioned, after the Fourth Blight things changed, and the Order isn't as powerful as it used to be.^[7]

The Grey Wardens' first allegiance is to their duty, and their second to the Order, but Wardens are not expected to abandon the lives they had before their Joinings. Rather, are encouraged to put their worldly ties to use in furtherance of the Order's aims. Noble titles and merchant wealth can often accomplish what weapons cannot.^[30] Grey Wardens are also allowed to marry, have romantic relationships or retain the relationships they had before joining the Order^[32], if they want to.

While some Grey Wardens avoid serious romantic entanglements knowing that their lives are at constant risk, others enjoy love as much as they can, figuring that they should embrace life to the fullest while they can.^[29] Some of those Wardens even allow their families to know the risks of being a Grey Warden, knowing that one day they will not see them again.^[33]

Likewise, some Grey Wardens make a point to stand apart from the communities they serve, knowing they may be called on to sacrifice, tomorrow, those they protect today. But again, other Wardens take the opposite stance, befriending any and all in the moment and addressing sacrifice when the times require it.^[29]

Whatever relationships they maintain or cultivate, however, Wardens are expected to remain neutral, and are discouraged from taking the field in civil or religious conflict against any enemy other than the darkspawn.^[30]

The Calling

There was a stir within his blood
And the dreams lay thick upon him.
A call did beat within his heart.
One road was left before him.

—Codex entry: Shred of Blue

Just as they keep many secrets from outsiders, including the Joining, Grey Wardens also keep certain secrets hidden from many of their own members. It is heavily implied that the Calling—also known as the Long Walk^[34]—was a ritual created by the first Grey Wardens to prevent future members from watching themselves ultimately succumb to the darkspawn taint.

The Calling begins with nightmares and bad omens^[35], and then the Warden begins to hear eerie music and whispers, the same "call" the darkspawn hear to search for the Old Gods. Although some junior Wardens claim that it takes a person about thirty years after their Joining to hear it, the gap varies depending on the willpower of an individual Warden and the level of his or her interaction with the darkspawn. As such, Grey Wardens during a Blight are likely to have shorter lifespans. Otherwise, it is commonly between ten to thirty years that the Wardens hear the Calling.^[36]

According to ritual, a Grey Warden who hear the Calling celebrates as he or she see fit before descending underground and entering the Deep Roads to slay as many darkspawn as they can before being overwhelmed and slain. Many within the Order believe that this ritual is done for practical reasons, to take down as many enemies as a Grey Warden can before dying.

It is also implied that even if a Grey Warden would run away, given time all Wardens would find themselves in the Deep Roads, Blight-Lands or pursued by darkspawn, for they all are connected by the taint that draws them to each other. "You'd seek them out... or they'd seek you out." Thus, one can assume that almost every Grey Warden will die at the hands of darkspawn.^[37]

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: The Calling.

Several Wardens, under Commander Genevieve, underwent a premature Calling early in the Dragon Age. Their Calling and subsequent physical taint—resembling a nasty rash— was caused by magical amulets designed to accelerate their taint. Fiona, a Grey Warden contemporary of Duncan, was one of the affected, and was cured of the accelerated taint shortly after the mission into the Deep Roads was completed. The Warden mages at Weisshaupt speculated that she might be permanently free of the Calling. Considering that Fiona was allowed to leave the Wardens and become Grand Enchanter of the Circle of Magi 27 years after that, it can be assumed that her cure was permanent.

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age II.

Some corrupted entities such as Corypheus can use Blight magic to imitate the Call of an Old God similar to what Grey Wardens hear during a Blight as well as during their Calling. This can even allow Wardens to be controlled against their will.

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Inquisition.

If The Warden is alive, it can be revealed in conversation with a romanced Morrigan, Leliana, or a Grey Warden Alistair that the Hero of Ferelden is currently searching for a way to prevent the Calling. The Warden's lover remarks that Fiona was able to remove the taint from herself through means unknown to her, and that Avernus was able to prolong his life to unnatural lengths through experimentation. The Hero of Ferelden is currently following leads that may allow them to prevent the effects of the Calling, and grant them a longer life.

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Last Flight.

Mabari are sometimes Joined by the Wardens, and may go through a Calling of their own.^[38]

Relations with the dwarves

Grey Wardens and the dwarven people have always had a kinship through their shared battle against the darkspawn.

Dwarves are viewed as excellent recruits to the Order due to their experience against the darkspawn.^[39] However, as there are fewer dwarves due to low birth rates, there are also fewer dwarven Wardens.^[40] Grey Wardens are also the only surface organization to care about the endless war the dwarves wage against the darkspawn in the Deep Roads.^[41]

When the time of a Grey Warden's Calling draws near, a Warden honors a longstanding agreement between the Wardens and the dwarves and serves a year fighting darkspawn in the Deep Roads at the side of the dwarves.^[42] When the advance of the taint is unbearable, the Warden is celebrated by the dwarves and then enters the Deep Roads for their Calling.^[43] In return the dwarves have signed treaties with the Wardens promising aid in times of a Blight.

Notable Grey Wardens

Main article: Grey Warden membership

For a complete list of the Grey Wardens, see Category:Grey Wardens.

Alistair
Anders
Avernus
Blackwall
Caronel, elven Warden from Ferelden, and Arcane Warrior
Carinus, legendary founder of the Grey Warden Order^[44]
Clarel, Warden-Commander of Orlais in 9:41 Dragon
Corin, Hero of the Second Blight who killed the Archdemon Zazikel
Duncan, Warden-Commander of Ferelden in 9:30 Dragon
Fiona
Garahel, Hero of the Fourth Blight who killed the Archdemon Andoral
Genevieve, Warden-Commander of Orlais in 8:99 Blessed
Hafter (dog)^[45]
Isseya, sister of Garahel
Janeka
Julien
Kell ap Morgan
Kristoff
Kristoff, former Commander of the Grey of Orlais; not to be confused with the Kristoff of Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening
Larius
Loris, a Hero of the Third Blight^[46]
Neriah, Corin's lover who sacrificed her life to save him
Nicolas
Riordan
Sophia Dryden, Warden-Commander of Ferelden in 7:5 Storm
Stroud
Utha
Valya
The Warden / The Warden-Commander, Warden-Commander of Ferelden in 9:31 Dragon

Potential Grey Wardens, depending on player choices:

Bethany Hawke
Carver Hawke
Jana
Justice (technically, through Kristoff's Joined corpse)
Secret Companion
Nathaniel Howe
Oghren
Sigrun
Velanna
Gregory Dedrick
Thom Rainier

Known Warden-Recruits who died taking the Joining:

Daveth
Ser Jory
Ser Mhairi
Diguier, a former Templar Knight-Lieutenant from Orlais^[47]

Known strongholds

Soldier's Peak, once center of Grey Warden strength in Ferelden.

Ferelden

Soldier's Peak (defunct unless The Warden aids Levi Dryden)
Vigil's Keep (including the surrounding Arling of Amaranthine), granted to the Grey Wardens following the Fifth Blight
Denerim Compound (possibly closed by Loghain Mac Tir)
Archive tower in the Korcari Wilds (abandoned)^[48]

Orlais

Adamant Fortress (abandoned)
Griffon Wing Keep (abandoned)
Warden Fortress at Montsimmard
Facility at Jader
Valeska's Watch (abandoned)

Anderfels

Weisshaupt Fortress, official headquarters of the Order, seat of the First Warden.

Free Marches

Warden Prison

Heraldry

The heraldry of the Grey Wardens is an argent griffon segreant on azure. The Grey Warden Commanders (at least in the time of Sophia Dryden) seem to have their own heraldry as well. The blazon for that charge might be rendered as "two griffons addorsed, wings elevated, maintaining a branch fesswise". On Sophia Dryden's Warden Commander Armor, the charge appears in or on a field sable. The artistic rendition of the charge on the armor is distinct from that seen on the heavier metal shields.

Trivia

Alistair's exposition of the Grey Wardens hearing the Calling thirty years after their joining was something David Gaider regretted adding, since it is "a long time for that time frame." Although it was not really his intention when this was written, he clarified that the number varies.^[36]
Although Riordan is a Warden from Jader, he refers to himself as Senior Warden, not Warden-Lieutenant.
According to Alistair, the Taint in a Grey Warden negatively affects the Grey Warden's fertility. Most Grey Wardens are only able to conceive or father a child before their Joining.^[32]
For unknown reasons, Aveline Vallen's armor bears the Warden heraldry when she becomes Guard Captain.
Wardens frequently train with weighted bundles of canes, sparring with one another and with pells to build physical strength.^[49]
Many Wardens keep a list of names of those who were lost in the Joining. Those casualties are regarded as being fellow Wardens despite not having survived the rite, and this list of names is cherished and remembered.^[50]
Orlesian Grey Wardens who carry out great deeds are rewarded with the Silverite Wings of Valor. ^[51]
Training within the Order appears to be somewhat class-blind, with warriors (and likely rogues) training mages, for example, and presumably mages training warriors and rogues in various areas as well. Likely there is something each class can learn from the others, regardless of natural abilities.^[52]

The following information is only mentioned in Dragon Age Tabletop. Certain portions of this media may no longer reflect currently established lore.

No Qunari has ever joined the Grey Wardens. There are, however, rumors of several Tal-Vashoth taking the Joining in recent decades.^[7]

Gallery

References

↑ Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 154
↑ Dragon Age: The Calling, p. 142
↑ Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 2, p. 61
↑ Codex entry: The Grey Wardens
↑ Dragon Age: The Calling, p. 203
↑ Dragon Age (tabletop RPG), Player's Guide, set 2, p. 10
↑ ^7.0 ^7.1 ^7.2 ^7.3 Dragon Age (tabletop RPG), Player's Guide, set 2, p. 7
↑ Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 153
↑ Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, pp. 55-56
↑ ^10.0 ^10.1 ^10.2 Dragon Age (tabletop RPG), Player's Guide, set 2, p. 6
↑ Dragon Age: Last Flight, p. 274
↑ ^12.0 ^12.1 ^12.2 ^12.3 Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 151
↑ Dragon Age: Last Flight, Chapter 24
↑ Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 2, p. 119
↑ Dark Epiphany
↑ Codex entry: Grey Warden Letters
↑ Finding Nathaniel
↑ Codex entry: Privileged to the Wardens
↑ ^19.0 ^19.1 Dragon Age: Last Flight, Chapter 1
↑ Dragon Age: Last Flight, pp. 18, 73-74
↑ According to dialogue with Warden Alistair.
↑ Dragon Age: Warden's Fall, Chapter 3
↑ Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 152
↑ High Constable's Mace
↑ Dragon Age: Last Flight, Chapter 11
↑ See the Archivist demon during the Soldier's Peak quest.
↑ Mentioned by Avernus during the Soldier's Peak quest.
↑ Codex entry: A Letter from Warden-Commander Clarel
↑ ^29.0 ^29.1 ^29.2 ^29.3 Dragon Age (tabletop RPG), Game Master's Guide, set 2, p. 9
↑ ^30.0 ^30.1 ^30.2 ^30.3 ^30.4 ^30.5 ^30.6 Dragon Age (tabletop RPG), Player's Guide, set 2, p. 8
↑ Blackwall character profile. Dragon Age.
↑ ^32.0 ^32.1 If made king, Alistair will mention that he knew about Wardens who had children before their Joining.
↑ For instance, Kristoff warned Aura that one day he will not return to her, as mentioned by Aura during Justice for Kristoff quest.
↑ Mentioned by Janeka during the Legacy (quest).
↑ According to dialogue with the Warden ally in Dragon Age: Inquisition.
↑ ^36.0 ^36.1 Thedas UK (January 14, 2012). "David Gaider Interview". Retrieved January 29, 2012.
↑ According to dialogue with Riordan in Dragon Age: Origins.
↑ Dragon Age: Last Flight, p. 140
↑ Teyrn Loghain will remark at Ostagar that it is wise of the Wardens to recruit amongst the dwarves due to their skill and prowess against the darkspawn.
↑ Mentioned by Duncan in the Dwarf Noble Origin.
↑ Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 102
↑ Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 152
↑ As Bregan did in Dragon Age: The Calling.
↑ Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 2, p. 17
↑ Kell ap Morgan considers Hafter (dog) a Grey Warden by virtue of his tainted blood in Dragon Age: The Calling, p. 63.
↑ Cleave (Axe)
↑ Dragon Age: Last Flight, p. 164
↑ See The Grey Wardens' Cache
↑ ;Dragon Age: Last Flight, p. 216
↑ Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 2, p. 119
↑ Codex entry: Blackwall
↑ If Jean-Marc Stroud is Hawke's Grey Warden contact in Dragon Age: Inquisition he will note that he trained some of the enslaved Warden mages himself.

[wot154-1] Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 154

[2] Dragon Age: The Calling, p. 142

[3] Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 2, p. 61

[Wardens-4] Codex entry: The Grey Wardens

[5] Dragon Age: The Calling, p. 203

[rpg10-6] Dragon Age (tabletop RPG), Player's Guide, set 2, p. 10

[rpg7-7] 7.0 ^7.1 ^7.2 ^7.3 Dragon Age (tabletop RPG), Player's Guide, set 2, p. 7

[8] Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 153

[9] Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, pp. 55-56

[rpg6-10] 10.0 ^10.1 ^10.2 Dragon Age (tabletop RPG), Player's Guide, set 2, p. 6

[11] Dragon Age: Last Flight, p. 274

[wot151-12] 12.0 ^12.1 ^12.2 ^12.3 Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 151

[13] Dragon Age: Last Flight, Chapter 24

[14] Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 2, p. 119

[15] Dark Epiphany

[16] Codex entry: Grey Warden Letters

[17] Finding Nathaniel

[18] Codex entry: Privileged to the Wardens

[lf1-19] 19.0 ^19.1 Dragon Age: Last Flight, Chapter 1

[20] Dragon Age: Last Flight, pp. 18, 73-74

[21] According to dialogue with Warden Alistair.

[22] Dragon Age: Warden's Fall, Chapter 3

[23] Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 152

[24] High Constable's Mace

[25] Dragon Age: Last Flight, Chapter 11

[26] See the Archivist demon during the Soldier's Peak quest.

[27] Mentioned by Avernus during the Soldier's Peak quest.

[28] Codex entry: A Letter from Warden-Commander Clarel

[rpg9-29] 29.0 ^29.1 ^29.2 ^29.3 Dragon Age (tabletop RPG), Game Master's Guide, set 2, p. 9

[rpg8-30] 30.0 ^30.1 ^30.2 ^30.3 ^30.4 ^30.5 ^30.6 Dragon Age (tabletop RPG), Player's Guide, set 2, p. 8

[31] Blackwall character profile. Dragon Age.

[Grey_Warden_children-32] 32.0 ^32.1 If made king, Alistair will mention that he knew about Wardens who had children before their Joining.

[33] For instance, Kristoff warned Aura that one day he will not return to her, as mentioned by Aura during Justice for Kristoff quest.

[34] Mentioned by Janeka during the Legacy (quest).

[35] According to dialogue with the Warden ally in Dragon Age: Inquisition.

[Thedas_UK-36] 36.0 ^36.1 Thedas UK (January 14, 2012). "David Gaider Interview". Retrieved January 29, 2012.

[37] According to dialogue with Riordan in Dragon Age: Origins.

[38] Dragon Age: Last Flight, p. 140

[39] Teyrn Loghain will remark at Ostagar that it is wise of the Wardens to recruit amongst the dwarves due to their skill and prowess against the darkspawn.

[40] Mentioned by Duncan in the Dwarf Noble Origin.

[41] Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 102

[42] Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 1, p. 152

[43] As Bregan did in Dragon Age: The Calling.

[44] Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 2, p. 17

[45] Kell ap Morgan considers Hafter (dog) a Grey Warden by virtue of his tainted blood in Dragon Age: The Calling, p. 63.

[46] Cleave (Axe)

[47] Dragon Age: Last Flight, p. 164

[48] See The Grey Wardens' Cache

[49] ;Dragon Age: Last Flight, p. 216

[50] Dragon Age: The World of Thedas, vol. 2, p. 119

[51] Codex entry: Blackwall

[52] If Jean-Marc Stroud is Hawke's Grey Warden contact in Dragon Age: Inquisition he will note that he trained some of the enslaved Warden mages himself.

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[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

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@@ Line 8: / Line 8: @@
 |px           = 270px
 |type         = Military
-|motto        = ''In War, Victory. In Peace, Vigilance.  In Death, Sacrifice.''
+|motto        = ''In War, Victory. In Peace, Vigilance. In Death, Sacrifice.''
 |headquarters = [[Weisshaupt Fortress]], [[Anderfels]]
 |leaders      = [[First Warden]] <small>(overall)</small> <br> [[Commander of the Grey]] <small>(national)</small>
 |ranks        = [[First Warden]] <br> High Constable <br> Chamberlain of the Grey <br> [[Commander of the Grey]] <br> Warden-Constable <br> Senior Warden <br> Warden <br> Warden-Recruit
-|appearances  = [[Dragon Age: Origins]] <br> [[Dragon Age Journeys]] <br> [[Dragon Age: Warden's Fall]] <br> [[Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening]] <br> [[Dragon Age II]] <br> [[Heroes of Dragon Age]] <br> [[Dragon Age: Inquisition]]
+|appearances  = [[Dragon Age: Origins]] <br> [[Dragon Age Journeys]] <br> [[Dragon Age: Warden's Fall]] <br> [[Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening]] <br> [[Dragon Age II]] <br> [[Heroes of Dragon Age]] <br> [[Dragon Age: Inquisition]] <br> [[Dragon Age: Last Flight]] <br> [[Dragon Age: Tevinter Nights]]
 }}</onlyinclude>
-The '''Grey Wardens''' are an [[Groups|Order]] of warriors of exceptional ability dedicated to fighting [[darkspawn]] throughout [[Thedas]]. They are headquartered in the very place of their founding, the [[Weisshaupt Fortress]] in the [[Anderfels]], but maintain a presence in most other nations as well.
+The '''Grey Wardens''' are an [[Groups|Order]] of warriors of exceptional ability dedicated to fighting [[darkspawn]] throughout [[Thedas]]. They are headquartered in the very place of their founding, [[Weisshaupt Fortress]] in the [[Anderfels]], but maintain a presence in most other nations as well.
 The Grey Wardens are known for ignoring a recruit's racial, social, national, and even criminal background if they deem the person valuable in terms of character, ability or skill.
@@ Line 22: / Line 22: @@
 == History ==
-{{Quote|You will guard them and they will hate you for it. Whenever there is not a Blight actively crawling over the surface, [[human]]ity will do its best to forget how much they need you. And that's good. We need to stand apart from them, even if they have to push us away to make us do it. That is the only way we can ever make the hard decisions.|Kristoff, [[Commander of the Grey]] of [[Orlais]] during the [[Blessed Age]]''<ref>''[[Dragon Age: The Calling]]'', p. 142</ref>}}
+{{Quote|You will guard them and they will hate you for it. Whenever there is not a Blight actively crawling over the surface, [[human]]ity will do its best to forget how much they need you. And that's good. We need to stand apart from them, even if they have to push us away to make us do it. That is the only way we can ever make the hard decisions.|Kristoff, [[Commander of the Grey]] of [[Orlais]] during the [[Blessed Age]]<ref>''[[Dragon Age: The Calling]]'', p. 142</ref>}}
-=== First Blight and the founding ===
+=== First Blight and founding ===
 {{Blockquote|''To the wisest I sang,
 ''To the wing'd cup-bearers of the tall sky-vaulting...|
-[[Chant of Light]], Canticle of [[Andraste]] 1:3<ref>{{cite wot2|61.}}</ref>}}
+[[Chant of Light]], Canticle of [[Andraste]] 1:3<ref>{{cite wot2|61}}</ref>}}
 [[File:GreyWardensArtwork.jpg‎|right|250px]]
-Lasting 192 years, the [[First Blight]] occurred in -395 [[Ancient Age|Ancient]] (800 TE), when a plague was unleashed upon the world. The [[Deep Roads]], underground highways built by [[Dwarf|dwarves]], were swarmed with monstrous creatures that became known as the "darkspawn". These creatures seemed limitless in number, and spread a [[Taint]] that infected other living creatures, mutating them into monsters, and corrupted and poisoned the very environment around them. The cult of the [[Maker]] claimed this was the result of [[Tevinter Imperium|Tevinter]] [[mage]]s entering the [[Fade]] through a ritual and attempting to usurp the [[Golden City]], although dwarves and others discounted this theory. Nevertheless, this invasion of darkspawn — named the Blight — soon destroyed most of the underground kingdoms of the dwarves and spread to the surface world. Thedas was in chaos and entered a dark age. The darkspawn were found to be led by an immensely powerful [[dragon]] tainted with the darkspawn corruption; this creature was named an [[Archdemon]] and believed to be one of the [[Old Gods]] worshiped by Tevinter.
+The [[First Blight]] began in -395 [[Ancient Age|Ancient]] (800 TE) and lasted 192 years. The [[Deep Roads]], underground highways built by [[Dwarf|dwarves]], were swarmed with monstrous creatures that became known as "darkspawn". These creatures seemed limitless in number, and spread a [[Taint]] that infected other living creatures, mutating them into [[ghoul|monsters]], and corrupted and poisoned the very environment around them. The cult of the [[Maker]] claimed this was the result of [[Tevinter Imperium|Tevinter]] [[magister]]s entering the [[Fade]] through a ritual and attempting to usurp the throne of the Maker in the [[Golden City]], although this theory has been disputed by others, most notably the dwarves. Nevertheless, this invasion of darkspawn — named the Blight — soon destroyed most of the underground kingdoms of the dwarves and spread to the surface world. Thedas was in chaos and entered a dark age. The darkspawn were found to be led by an immensely powerful [[dragon]] tainted with the darkspawn corruption; this creature was named an [[Archdemon]] and believed to be one of the [[Old Gods]] worshiped by Tevinter.
+At Weisshaupt fortress in the desolate Anderfels, a meeting transpired. Soldiers of the Imperium, seasoned veterans who had known nothing their entire lifetimes except war, came together. When they left Weisshaupt, they had renounced their oaths to the Imperium. Calling themselves the Grey Wardens, they swore that they would accept anyone, no matter their race or background, without distinction if only deemed suitable to join the Order.<ref name="Wardens">[[Codex entry: The Grey Wardens]]</ref>
-In -305 Ancient (890 TE), after nearly a century of bitter war against the darkspawn hordes, a group of veteran warriors came together in Weisshaupt Fortress in the Anderfels, the western part of the Tevinter Imperium. Although Warden legends sing of their leader [[Carinus]] and his pre-founding travels to recruit allies, other stories do not acknowledge Carinus's existence. Instead, they talk about a band of Ander soldiers who came together to hunt the Archdemon and the sacrifice they made as they tried to save the world while their families perished. Regardless of whether Carinus existed or not, the different tales about the founders of the Grey Wardens imply that they were doing more than just getting allies. They were also researching for better ways to fight the darkspawn and to protect themselves from the Taint. Those discoveries led to the developing of the [[Joining]] ritual. The Joining symbolically cut their ties to all worldly concerns, in order to dedicate themselves to fighting the darkspawn.<ref name="DAGRPG-p3">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Game Master's Guide, set 2, p. 3</ref>
+The Wardens began an aggressive campaign against the darkspawn, reclaiming lands that most had given up for lost. They proved to be a desperately needed spark of hope in the darkest of hours, and quickly gained renown. During the next 100 years, humanity slowly managed to stand firm and push back the Blight. Finally, in -203 Ancient (992 TE), the Grey Wardens gathered an allied army composed of soldiers from the Tevinter Imperium, the tribes of the Ciriane (the lands that would become [[Orlais]]), and [[Rivain]] to confront the main darkspawn horde, led by the Archdemon now identified as [[Dumat]]. A massive battle was waged at the [[Silent Plains]], in what is now the border between Tevinter and [[Nevarra]]. The legion of darkspawn was defeated and Dumat was slain by the Grey Wardens; with the Archdemon's death, the horde's will to fight on was broken. It took several years to eradicate the remaining darkspawn from the surface, but the Blight was over and the Grey Wardens had carved out their legend. After the Battle of the Silent Plains, they were much celebrated and most nations gave formal promises of support for further darkspawn invasions. They were also given the [[#Recruitment and the Right of Conscription|Right of Conscription]], to guarantee sufficient recruits.<ref>''[[Dragon Age: The Calling]]'', p. 203</ref>
-Several notable dwarven warriors, led by [[Paragon]] Moroc the Maul, were also present at the Grey Wardens' founding. They shared all they had learned about the darkspawn with their Warden allies.<ref name="rpg10">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Player's Guide, set 2, p. 10</ref> A group of the Orth people from the Wandering Hills and the northern reaches of the [[Hunterhorn Mountains]], who knew how to "tame" [[griffon]]s, also joined the Grey Wardens ranks and teach them how to ride the beasts in battle. Although there are no written records about it, it is widely believed that the Grey Wardens took their name from the griffons' grey coloration.<ref name="DAPRPG-p7">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Player's Guide, set 2, p. 7</ref> Calling themselves the Grey Wardens, they swore that they would accept anyone, no matter their race or background, without distinction if only deemed suitable to join the Order.<ref name="Wardens">[[Codex entry: The Grey Wardens]]</ref>
+{{Tabletop RPG material}}
+Several notable dwarven warriors, led by [[Paragon]] Moroc the Maul, were also present at the Grey Wardens' founding and are a key reason why there is no loss of [[caste]] associated with becoming a Grey Warden. They shared all they had learned about the darkspawn with their Warden allies.<ref name="rpg10">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Player's Guide, set 2, p. 10</ref> A group of the Orth people from the Wandering Hills and the northern reaches of the [[Hunterhorn Mountains]], who knew how to "tame" [[griffon]]s, also joined the Grey Wardens ranks and teach them how to ride the beasts in battle. Although there are no written records about it, it is widely believed that the Grey Wardens took their name from the griffons' grey coloration.<ref name="rpg7">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Player's Guide, set 2, p. 7</ref>
-The first chronicled apparition of the Grey Wardens on the battlefield was during the attack on [[Nordbotten]], when they arrived mounted on griffons, plunging into the darkspawn with each Warden taking on crowds of ten or twenty darkspawn at once. Incredibly, they broke the horde and won the battle, although this was done because the darkspawn were unable to tell the difference between the newly joined Grey Wardens from their own fellow darkspawn.<ref name="DAGRPG-p3"/>
-The Wardens then began an aggressive campaign against the darkspawn, reclaiming lands that most had given up for lost. Beholden to no temporal lords, they were free to sacrifice villages and fortresses that could not be won, preserving their might for the clashes that truly mattered. They proved to be a desperately needed spark of hope in the darkest of hours, and quickly gained renown since.<ref name="DAPRPG-p5">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Player's Guide, set 2, p. 5</ref>
-Their victories brought notice, and soon the Grey Wardens started receiving tithes, supplies, and recruits from all lands; they accepted all with skill, might, or tenacity into their ranks, slaves and noblemen alike, regardless of their race or temperament. They grew, building fortresses and functioning as elite shock troops making quick and devastating strikes wherever darkspawn appeared, as well as rallying the mundane armies to greater deeds.<ref name="DAPRPG-p5"/>
-During the next 100 years, humanity slowly managed to stand firm and push back the Blight. Finally, in -203 Ancient (992 TE), the Grey Wardens gathered an allied army composed of soldiers from the Tevinter Imperium, the tribes of the Ciraine (the lands that would become [[Orlais]]), and [[Rivain]] to confront the main darkspawn horde, led by the Archdemon now identified as [[Dumat]]. The massive battle was waged at the [[Silent Plains]], in what is now southern Tevinter or northern [[Nevarra]]: the legion of darkspawn was defeated and Dumat was slain by the Grey Wardens; with the Archdemon's death, the horde's will to fight on was broken. It took several years to eradicate the remaining darkspawn from the surface, but the deed was done and the Grey Wardens had carved out their legend. After the Battle of the Silent Plains, they were much celebrated and most nations gave formal promises of support for further darkspawn invasions. Among the tithes that were given to them was also the [[#Recruitment and the Right of Conscription|Right of Conscription]] to guarantee sufficient recruits.<ref>''[[Dragon Age: The Calling]]'', p. 203</ref>
 === Second Blight ===
 [[File:Grey Warden 1.png|right|200px|A Grey Warden<ref>{{Cite wot|153}}</ref>]]
-In 1:5 [[Divine Age|Divine]], approximately 200 years since the slaying of Dumat, the Archdemon [[Zazikel]] rose to lead the [[Second Blight]]. The entire city of Nordbotten — the very place where the Grey Wardens first appeared on the battlefield — was destroyed before a defense could be organized. The Tevinter Imperium withdrew from the Anderfels, abandoning it in an attempt to protect central Tevinter. The Anderfels area was in much trouble, and even the Grey Warden headquarters in Weisshaupt came under siege by the darkspawn.
+In 1:5 [[Divine Age|Divine]], approximately 200 years since the slaying of Dumat, the Archdemon [[Zazikel]] rose to lead the [[Second Blight]]. The entire city of Nordbotten — the very place where the Grey Wardens first appeared on the battlefield — was destroyed before a defense could be organized. The Tevinter Imperium withdrew from the Anderfels, abandoning it in an attempt to protect central Tevinter. The Anderfels region was hard-hit, and even the Grey Warden headquarters in Weisshaupt came under siege by the darkspawn.
-Fortunately, the armies of the recently founded Orlesian Empire under the command of [[Kordillus Drakon I|Emperor Kordillus Drakon I]] proved both motivated and capable of standing up to the Blight. After several victories against the darkspawn, Drakon's army lifted the siege of Weisshaupt in 1:33 Divine and proceeded to save the rest of the Anderfels together with the Wardens. The Anderfels joined with the Orlesian Empire and the Grey Wardens converted to the [[Chantry]].
+Fortunately, the armies of the recently founded Orlesian Empire under the command of [[Kordillus Drakon I|Emperor Kordillus Drakon I]] proved both motivated and capable of standing up to the Blight. After several victories against the darkspawn, Drakon's army lifted the siege of Weisshaupt in 1:33 Divine and proceeded to save the rest of the Anderfels together with the Wardens. The Anderfels joined the Orlesian Empire and the Grey Wardens converted to the [[Chantry]].<ref>{{Cite wot|55-56}}</ref>
 In the following decades, the Blight was again slowly pushed back and the Grey Wardens took command of the war. The Archdemon Zazikel was finally confronted and slain by the Grey Warden [[Corin]] in 1:95 Divine at [[Starkhaven]] in the [[Free Marches]].
 === Glory Age to Towers Age ===
+{{Tabletop RPG material}}
-After the second Blight, the Grey Wardens actively remained vigilant for another Blight. Although there was no major incursion in the surface during this period of time, the Wardens fought with many small war bands of darkspawn that appeared in surface lands from time to time. They also sent small groups of Wardens to help [[Orzammar]] in its fight against the darkspawn in the Deep Roads. When the Chantry declared their [[Exalted Marches|Exalted March]] against the Dales, the Grey Wardens refused to get involved in that conflict.<ref name="DAPRPG-p6">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Player's Guide, set 2, p. 6</ref>
+After the second Blight, the Grey Wardens actively remained vigilant for another Blight. Although there were no major darkspawn incursions to the surface during this period of time, the Wardens fought many small war bands of darkspawn that periodically appeared in surface lands. They also sent small groups of Wardens to help [[Orzammar]] in its fight against the darkspawn in the Deep Roads. When the Chantry declared their [[Exalted Marches|Exalted March]] against the Dales, the Grey Wardens refused to get involved in that conflict.<ref name="rpg6">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Player's Guide, set 2, p. 6</ref>
 === Third Blight ===
-The [[Third Blight]] began with the awakening of [[Toth]] in 3:10 [[Towers Age|Towers]], roughly 115 years after the last Blight. The initial darkspawn attacks occurred in central Thedas in Tevinter and Orlais, but even though the hordes were larger than those previously encountered, a rapidly-organized defense led by the Grey Wardens managed to hold them back. The darkspawn attacks started to focus on the more lightly defended Free Marches while Tevinter and Orlais tried to remain neutral, but pressure from the Grey Wardens eventually brought them into the war. The darkspawn horde was crushed at Hunter Fell in the Free Marches in 3:25 Towers, and Toth was slain by the Grey Wardens. The Third Blight remained a relatively short event compared to previous Blights.
+The [[Third Blight]] began with the awakening of [[Toth]] in 3:10 [[Towers Age|Towers]], roughly 115 years after the last Blight. The initial darkspawn attacks occurred in central Thedas in Tevinter and Orlais, but even though the hordes were larger than those previously encountered, a rapidly organized defense led by the Grey Wardens managed to hold them back. The darkspawn attacks started to focus on the more lightly defended Free Marches while Tevinter and Orlais tried to remain neutral, but pressure from the Grey Wardens eventually brought them into the war. The darkspawn horde was crushed at Hunter Fell in the Free Marches in 3:25 Towers, and Toth was slain by the Grey Wardens. The Third Blight remained a relatively short event compared to previous Blights.
+{{Tabletop RPG material}}
-After the Third Blight, the Grey Wardens became more involved in the politics of the nations of Thedas, although they also remained ever vigilant against the darkspawn menace.<ref name="DAPRPG-p6"/>
+After the Third Blight, the Grey Wardens became more involved in the politics of the nations of Thedas, although they also remained ever vigilant against the darkspawn menace.<ref name="rpg6"/>
 === Fourth Blight ===
-{{Quote|[[Garahel]] always used to say that heroism was just another word for horror, and maybe a worse one. A hero always feels that he has to do what's right. Sometimes that leads to tormenting himself with doubt long after the deed is done. Or herself...|Amadis [[Vael family|Vael]], princess-captain of the Ruby Drakes mercenary company, and lover of Garahel<ref>''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', pg. 274.</ref>}}
+{{Quote|[[Garahel]] always used to say that heroism was just another word for horror, and maybe a worse one. A hero always feels that he has to do what's right. Sometimes that leads to tormenting himself with doubt long after the deed is done. Or herself...|Amadis [[Vael family|Vael]], princess-captain of the Ruby Drakes mercenary company, and lover of Garahel<ref>''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', p. 274</ref>}}
 [[File:Griffons.jpg|Grey Wardens fighting from griffon-back|right|200px]]
-Not much is told about the Grey Wardens for another 200 years, when [[Andoral]] awakened and the [[Fourth Blight]] began in 5:12 [[Exalted Age|Exalted]]. Most of the damage was to the east of traditional Grey Warden territory, in the Free Marches, [[Antiva]], and Rivain, but the Anderfels was also attacked and [[Hossberg]], not far from Weisshaupt, came under siege. This time, both Tevinter and Orlais were lightly attacked and refused to send aid. The hero of the Fourth Blight was an elven Grey Warden named [[Garahel]], who first led the liberation of Hossberg in 5:20 Exalted and then managed to gather an army from the Free Marches to support the Grey Wardens. After a long and bloody war, Garahel's army marched north and faced the main horde in 5:24 Exalted at Ayesleigh, where Garahel perished after personally slaying Andoral.
+There are few records of Grey Warden activity during the next 200 years, until [[Andoral]] awakened and the [[Fourth Blight]] began in 5:12 [[Exalted Age|Exalted]]. Most of the damage was to the east of traditional Grey Warden territory, in the Free Marches, [[Antiva]], and Rivain, but the Anderfels was also attacked and [[Hossberg]], not far from Weisshaupt, came under siege. This time, both Tevinter and Orlais were lightly attacked and refused to send aid. The hero of the Fourth Blight was an elven Grey Warden named [[Garahel]], who first led the liberation of Hossberg in 5:20 Exalted and then managed to gather an army from the Free Marches to support the Grey Wardens. After a long and bloody war, Garahel's army marched north and faced the main horde in 5:24 Exalted at Ayesleigh, where Garahel perished after personally slaying Andoral.
 The Grey Wardens' legendary griffons died out some time after the Fourth Blight.<ref name="wot151">{{Cite wot|151}}</ref>
+{{SpoilerLF|
+Records unearthed during the Dragon Age revealed that the griffons died out as a result of being subjected to a modified version of the Joining by Warden [[Isseya]], on the First Warden's orders.<ref>''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', Chapter 24</ref>
+}}
 === Exalted Age to Dragon Age ===
-After the Fourth Blight, the influence of the Grey Wardens waned considerably. It would be 400 years before the Fifth Blight, and many started to think it would never happen. So many darkspawn were slain during the Fourth Blight that many came to the erroneous conclusion they were defeated permanently. Although remaining an eternal threat to the dwarves, darkspawn were rarely seen by surface people, and the Grey Wardens were slowly dismissed as a relic of a bygone, darker time best left forgotten. The refusal of the Wardens to help the other nations of Thedas against the [[Qunari]] during the [[Steel Age]] also earned them the enmity of many courts.<ref name="DAPRPG-p6"/>
+After the Fourth Blight, the influence of the Grey Wardens waned considerably. It would be 400 years before the Fifth Blight, and many started to think it would never happen. So many darkspawn were slain during the Fourth Blight that many came to the erroneous conclusion they were defeated permanently. Although remaining an eternal threat to the dwarves, darkspawn were rarely seen by surface people, and the Grey Wardens were slowly dismissed as a relic of a bygone, darker time best left forgotten.
 {{See also|Battle of Soldier's Peak}}
-In 7:5 [[Storm Age|Storm]], there was an awkward incident in [[Ferelden]] with the local Warden-Commander—[[Sophia Dryden]], previously a rival for the crown of Ferelden—becoming involved in a planned coup d'état. The result was fighting between the Grey Wardens and the royal army, the loss of Commander Sophia and her command at [[Soldier's Peak]], and King [[Arland Theirin|Arland]] banishing the Order from Ferelden. The Grey Wardens were allowed back in Ferelden by [[Maric Theirin|King Maric]] in 9:10 [[Dragon Age (time period)|Dragon]] and they were able to begin a slow rebuilding, but by 9:30 Dragon, their presence remained light and the Order was neither well known nor held in high regard by Ferelden's people - there were a bare handful of Wardens in Ferelden in 9:30, and many of that handful were non-Fereldans moved there to help rebuild the Fereldan contingent.
+In 7:5 [[Storm Age|Storm]], there was an awkward incident in [[Ferelden]] with the local Warden-Commander—[[Sophia Dryden]], previously a rival for the crown of Ferelden—becoming involved in a planned coup d'état. The result was fighting between the Grey Wardens and the royal army, the loss of Commander Sophia and her command at [[Soldier's Peak]], and King [[Arland Theirin|Arland]] banishing the Order from Ferelden. The Grey Wardens were allowed back in Ferelden by [[Maric Theirin|King Maric]] in 9:10 [[Dragon Age (time period)|Dragon]]. They were able to begin a slow rebuilding, but by 9:30 Dragon, their presence remained light and the Order was neither well known nor held in high regard by Ferelden's people: there were a bare handful of Wardens in Ferelden at the time, many of whom were non-Fereldans moved there to help rebuild the Fereldan contingent.
+{{Tabletop RPG material}}
+The refusal of the Wardens to help the other nations of Thedas against the [[Qunari]] during the [[Steel Age]] also earned them the enmity of many courts.<ref name="rpg6"/>
-=== Fifth Blight ===
+== Involvement ==
+=== ''Dragon Age: Origins'' ===
 {{Main|Fifth Blight}}
 {{SpoilerDAOA|
-In 9:30 Dragon, the [[Fifth Blight]] finally began with [[The Architect]] trying to free the darkspawn from the call of the Old Gods by inducing Grey Warden blood to the unearthed Old God [[Urthemiel]], believing it would help unravel the darkspawn's compulsion to seek the Old Gods at its source. However, the experiment went horribly wrong and resulted instead in the awakening of a new Archdemon.}}
+In 9:30 Dragon, the [[Fifth Blight]] begins after [[The Architect]], trying to free the darkspawn from the call of the Old Gods, gives Grey Warden blood to the unearthed Old God [[Urthemiel]], believing it would unravel the darkspawn's compulsion to seek the Old Gods at its source. However, the experiment goes horribly wrong and instead results in the awakening of a new Archdemon.}}
 {{SpoilerDAO|
-The darkspawn swarmed the [[Korcari Wilds]] in southern Ferelden, where they were met by the Fereldan army under King [[Cailan Theirin|Cailan]] and [[Loghain Mac Tir]], as well as all of Ferelden's Grey Wardens. After a few minor victories against the darkspawn, the royal army was devastated in a [[Battle of Ostagar|major battle]] at [[Ostagar]] when Loghain unexpectedly withdrew, leaving King Cailan and the Grey Wardens to their deaths. All but two Grey Wardens ([[Alistair]] and [[The Warden]]) were slain in the massacre; both survivors were new recruits to the Order.
+The darkspawn swarm the [[Korcari Wilds]] in southern Ferelden, where they are met by the Fereldan army under King [[Cailan Theirin|Cailan]] and Teyrn [[Loghain Mac Tir|Loghain]], as well as all of Ferelden's Grey Wardens. After a few minor victories against the darkspawn, the royal army is devastated in a [[Battle of Ostagar|major battle]] at [[Ostagar]] when Loghain unexpectedly withdraws, leaving King Cailan and the Grey Wardens to their deaths. All but two Grey Wardens ([[Alistair]] and [[The Warden]]) are slain in the ensuing massacre; both survivors were new recruits to the Order.
-Loghain installed himself as regent of Ferelden, denounced the Grey Wardens of Ferelden as traitors and had the Grey Wardens of Orlais that had come to assist Ferelden turned back at the border, believing the Wardens' claims about the Blight a ruse to assist in a new Orlesian conquest of Ferelden. His actions ignited a [[Fereldan Civil War (9:30 - 9:31 Dragon)|civil war]] as the nation's nobility, either disbelieving his explanation regarding Ostagar or outraged by the brutal measures Loghain was taking to hold a throne he had no claim to, battled to a stalemate with Loghain's armies and his loyalists to remove him from power, the darkspawn taking advantage of the infighting to advance deeper into Ferelden unopposed. Having heard what happened at Ostagar, the Grey Wardens of Orlais decided to dispatch a Grey Warden native to Ferelden, [[Riordan]], to fight Loghain and the Blight simultaneously. From their perspective, if the Grey Wardens expended themselves against Loghain, then they would risk the Blight devastating Thedas once again. Thus, they had to maintain vigil should Ferelden fall to the Blight.
+After Loghain installs himself as regent of Ferelden, he denounces the Fereldan Grey Wardens as traitors and has the Orlesian Grey Wardens that have come to assist Ferelden turned back at the border, believing the Wardens' claims about the Blight a ruse to assist in a new Orlesian conquest of Ferelden. His actions ignite a [[Fereldan Civil War (9:30 - 9:31 Dragon)|civil war]], as many nobles either disbelieve his explanation regarding Ostagar or are outraged by the brutal measures he has taken to hold a throne he has no claim to. The infighting allows the darkspawn to advance into Ferelden unopposed.
+When the Grey Wardens of Orlais receive no word of the outcome of the battle at Ostagar, they dispatche a Grey Warden native to Ferelden, [[Riordan]], to gather more information. They are unwilling to send more, as expending themselves against Loghain would then risk the Blight devastating all of Thedas once again. They remain vigilant, should Ferelden fall to the Blight.
-Despite the odds, the two remaining Fereldan Grey Wardens were able to organize an allied army to oppose the Blight using old treaties, and with the aid of Riordan, managed to slay Urthemiel during the [[Battle of Denerim]]. The Fifth Blight lasted just over one year - by far the shortest Blight in history. In acknowledgement of their efforts, the Grey Wardens were granted the [[Amaranthine|Arling of Amaranthine]] to allow them to rebuild. This was the first time that the Order governed a region, and it was received with interest by the [[First Warden]] from Weisshaupt.}}<br>
+Despite the odds, the two remaining Fereldan Grey Wardens are able to organize an allied army to oppose the Blight using old treaties, and with the aid of Riordan, slay Urthemiel during the [[Battle of Denerim]]. Lasting just over a year, the Fifth Blight is by far the shortest Blight in history. In acknowledgement of their efforts, the Grey Wardens are granted the [[Amaranthine|Arling of Amaranthine]] to allow them to rebuild. This marks the first time that the Order has been granted a region to govern, a gesture that attracts the interest of the [[First Warden]] in Weisshaupt.}}
 {{SpoilerWF|
-A contingent of Orlesian Grey Wardens, led by Warden [[Kristoff]], were in charge of chasing off darkspawn stragglers during the [[Blight#The_Thaw|Thaw Hunt]]. Even fleeing, the darkspawn caused great destruction across Ferelden. The most violent hunts took place in the Arling of Amaranthine.
+A contingent of Orlesian Grey Wardens, led by Warden [[Kristoff]], are sent to Ferelden to chase down darkspawn stragglers during the [[Blight#The_Thaw|Thaw Hunt]]. Even in their flight, the darkspawn cause great destruction across Ferelden. The most violent hunts take place in the Arling of Amaranthine.}}
-}}
-=== The Awakening ===
+=== ''Dragon Age: Awakening'' ===
 {{Main|Amaranthine Conflict (9:31 Dragon)}}
 {{SpoilerDAOA|
-While rebuilding the Grey Wardens presence in Ferelden and establishing [[Vigil's Keep]], a fortress given to the Wardens at the end of the Fifth Blight as a new base of operations, the newly appointed [[The Warden-Commander|Warden-Commander]] was faced with a new challenge. It was revealed that despite the defeat of the Archdemon, the darkspawn had not returned underground and a new variety of sapient, speaking darkspawn called [[The Disciples|Disciples]] and abominations to darkspawn called [[The Children]] had been discovered. Two entities, named [[The Architect]] and [[The Mother]], appeared to be involved and the Warden-Commander had to deal with them. Once the mission was complete, the world changed dramatically and the fate of the darkspawn was changed forever. Subsequently the Wardens returned to rebuilding their presence in Ferelden and repairing the damage done to the Arling by the conflict, simultaneously consolidating their control over their new territory.}}
+While rebuilding the Grey Wardens presence in Ferelden and establishing [[Vigil's Keep]], a fortress given to the Wardens at the end of the Fifth Blight as a new base of operations, the newly appointed [[The Warden-Commander|Warden-Commander]] is faced with a new challenge. Despite the defeat of the Archdemon, the darkspawn have not returned underground and a new variety of sapient, speaking darkspawn called [[The Disciples|Disciples]] and abominations to darkspawn called [[The Children]] have been discovered. Two entities, named [[The Architect]] and [[The Mother]], seem to lead these factions. Dealing with them changes the fate of the darkspawn forever. Subsequently, the Wardens return to rebuilding their presence in Ferelden and repairing the damage done to the Arling by the conflict, simultaneously consolidating their control over their new territory. After the end of the darkspawn's civil war, the Grey Wardens begin to hunt and capture some of the Disciples in order to investigate them.<ref>{{Cite wot2|119}}</ref>}}
-=== 9:32-37 [[Dragon Age (time period)|Dragon]] ===
+=== ''Dragon Age II'' ===
 {{SpoilerDA2|
 {{CodexConditionalParagraph|If Avernus survived the Fifth Blight and was allowed to continue his research|}}
+[[The Warden-Commander]] of Ferelden worked with [[Avernus]] to uncover the true potential of the Joining ritual. This research was allowed by the [[First Warden]], who was also interested in the old mage's research, and reports were sent to Weisshaupt on a regular basis. However, the results of the research hinted at the dangers of unlocking the latent abilities of the Grey Warden's blood.<ref>[[Dark Epiphany]]</ref><ref>[[Codex entry: Grey Warden Letters]]</ref>
-[[The Warden-Commander]] of Ferelden worked with [[Avernus]] to uncover the true potential of the Joining ritual. This research was allowed by the [[First Warden]], who was also interested in the old mage's research, and all the results of the experiments were sent to Weisshaupt on a regular basis. However, the results of the research hinted at the dangers of unlocking the latent abilities of the Grey Warden's blood.<ref>[[Dark Epiphany]]</ref><ref>[[Codex entry: Grey Warden Letters]]</ref>
 {{CodexConditionalParagraph|If Nathaniel survived the events of Awakening|}}
-After the discovery of the [[Primeval Thaig]], the the Grey Wardens took great interest in the thaig. In 9:37 Dragon, the First Warden commissioned [[Nathaniel Howe]] to lead a special expedition to learn more about it.<ref>[[Finding Nathaniel]]</ref>}}
+The Grey Wardens take great interest in the [[Primeval Thaig]]. In 9:37 Dragon, the First Warden commissions [[Nathaniel Howe]] to lead a special expedition to learn more about it.<ref>[[Finding Nathaniel]]</ref>
+After Warden-Commander [[Larius]] of the Free Marches went on his Calling, Senior Warden [[Janeka]] was left in command of a prison in the Vimmark Mountains which had been holding the darkspawn [[Corypheus]] since the Ancient Age.<ref>[[Codex entry: Privileged to the Wardens]]</ref> She eventually became convinced that Corypheus held the key to ending the Blights.
-=== 9:40-41 Dragon ===
+Between 9:31 and 9:37 Dragon, Janeka forces member of a [[Carta]] cell to drink darkspawn blood and uses them to track down the descendants of [[Malcolm Hawke]], whose blood is the key to Corypheus' prison. When [[Hawke]] investigates the prison, they inadvertently release Corypheus, who escapes death by possessing the body of either Janeka or Larius.
-{{SpoilerLF| The Wardens at Weisshaupt Fortress began a research project into records and materials from the Fourth Blight, searching for past incidents where Wardens acted strangely. They were also searching for any past encounters with intelligent darkspawn capable of thinking and talking like a person. In response to the [[Mage-Templar War]], the Grey Wardens offered amnesty to any mages or Templars wishing to escape the fighting, on the condition of their taking the Joining and entering the Order. The Wardens also invoked the Right of Conscription on such mage recruits to keep them from being harmed by the Templars.<ref>Last Flight Chapter 1</ref>
+}}
+=== ''Dragon Age: Last Flight'' ===
-In Orlais, two different groups of Grey Wardens conspicuously abandoned their assigned hold, selling off their spare horses and livestock at a fraction of their value. According to locals, these Wardens withdrew in a hurry but no readily apparent explanation was found.
+{{SpoilerLF| The Wardens at Weisshaupt Fortress begin to search into records and materials from the Fourth Blight for past incidents of Wardens acting strangely. They are also searching for any records of encounters with sapient darkspawn capable of speech. In response to the [[Mage-Templar War]], the Grey Wardens offer amnesty to any mages or Templars wishing to escape the fighting, on the condition of their taking the Joining and entering the Order. The Wardens also invoke the Right of Conscription on such mage recruits to keep them from being harmed by the Templars.<ref name="lf1">''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', Chapter 1</ref>
+In Orlais, two different groups of Grey Wardens conspicuously abandon their assigned hold, selling off their spare horses and livestock at a fraction of their value. According to locals, these Wardens withdrew in a hurry. No readily apparent explanation was found.
-In the Anderfels, the Grey Wardens recovered a clutch of thirteen live Griffon hatchlings from Red Bride's Grave.<ref> [[Dragon Age: Last Flight]] p.18, 73-74. ch25. </ref>}}
+In the Anderfels, the Grey Wardens recover a clutch of thirteen live Griffon hatchlings from Red Bride's Grave.<ref>''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', pp. 18, 73-74</ref>}}
-{{SpoilerDAI|All the Grey Wardens in Ferelden, save for Warden [[Blackwall]], disappeared as well.
-}}
-=== The Adamant uprising ===
+=== ''Dragon Age: Inquisition'' ===
 {{Main|War against the Elder One}}
 {{See also|Siege of Adamant Fortress}}
 {{SpoilerDAI|
-During the [[Divine Conclave]], a group of Grey Wardens —enthralled by [[Corypheus]]— aided the magister darkspawn in sacrificing [[Divine]] [[Justinia V]] to power the [[Orb of Destruction]]. Their ritual to power the orb was botched due to the intervention of the [[Herald of Andraste]] and subsequently caused [[The Breach]].
+During the [[Divine Conclave]] in the [[Temple of Sacred Ashes]], a group of Grey Wardens —enthralled by [[Corypheus]]— aid the magister darkspawn in sacrificing [[Divine]] [[Justinia V]] to power the [[Orb of Destruction]]. The ritual's interruption by the [[Herald of Andraste]] led to a cataclysmic explosion that destroyed the temple and caused [[The Breach]].
+As every Grey Warden in [[Orlais]] begins to hear the [[#The Calling|Calling]] —a bluff elicited by [[Corypheus]] and a massive [[Fear demon]] called the [[Nightmare (demon)|Nightmare]]— they grow desperate and seek allies to help them accomplish their mandate before they perish. All southern Grey Wardens are summoned to Orlais,<ref>According to dialogue with Warden [[Alistair]].</ref> which is why all Wardens in Ferelden save [[Blackwall]] ended mysteriously vanished. Lord [[Livius Erimond]], a [[Venatori]] [[Magister]], convinces [[Commander of the Grey|Warden-Commander]] [[Clarel]] to use [[blood magic]] techniques to raise a [[demon]] army, invade the [[Deep Roads]] and kill the remaining [[Old Gods]] before they wake. Unbeknownst to the Grey Wardens, the demon binding rituals Erimond taught the Grey Warden mages enslaved them to Corypheus, who would use them and the demon army they summoned to conquer Thedas.
-When every Grey Warden in [[Orlais]] began to hear the [[#The Calling|Calling]] —a bluff elicited by [[Corypheus]]—, the Grey Wardens grew desperate and sought out allies to help them accomplish their mandate before they perished, including summoning all the southern Grey Wardens to Orlais.<ref>According to dialogue with Warden [[Alistair]].</ref> Lord [[Livius Erimond]], a [[Venatori]] [[Magister]], convinced [[Commander of the Grey|Warden-Commander]] [[Clarel]] to use their [[blood magic]] techniques to raise a [[demon]] army and invade the [[Deep Roads]] and kill the [[Old Gods]] before they woke. Unbeknownst to the Grey Wardens, the demon binding rituals Erimond taught the Grey Warden mages enslaved them to Corypheus, who would use them to conquer Thedas.
 [[File:Wardens at Adamant.jpg|right|275px|Wardens under attack]]
-A senior Warden (that can be either [[Stroud]], [[Alistair]], or [[Loghain Mac Tir]], based on player's choices from past games), that was researching about Corypheus at the time, was branded a traitor for protesting Warden-Commander Clarel's plan to use the blood magic rituals and went into hiding. The fugitive Warden, [[Hawke]], and [[the Inquisitor]] scouted the ancient Tevinter ritual tower in the Western Approach to investigate a Grey Warden congregation and learned the truth of the Venatori's blood sacrifice rituals.
+A senior Warden (that can be either [[Stroud]], [[Alistair]], or [[Loghain Mac Tir]], based on the player's choices in past games) that was researching Corypheus at the time, is branded a traitor for protesting Warden-Commander Clarel's plan to use Erimond's blood magic rituals and goes into hiding. The fugitive Warden, [[Hawke]], and [[the Inquisitor]] scout the ancient Tevinter ritual tower in the Western Approach to investigate a Grey Warden congregation and learns the truth of the Venatori's blood sacrifice rituals.
-Hawke and the fugitive Warden joined the [[Inquisition]] as they laid siege to [[Adamant Fortress]]. They confront Erimond and Clarel about the truth of the demon binding ritual and attempted to sway the Wardens against Erimond. When Erimond summoned [[Red Lyrium Dragon|Corypheus' dragon]] to deal with the Inquisition, Clarel had a change of heart and betrayed Erimond. The dragon attacked and a massive battle against the Warden mages enthralled by Corypheus and their bonded demons ensued. While the Inquisition pursued Clarel, she inflicted her wrath on Erimond but was killed by the dragon he had summoned. Clarel's last act was casting a spell that subdued the dragon but its crash caused the ground beneath them to crumble, resulting in the party to fall off the ramparts. The Inquisitor used their mark to open a rift to transport the party to the Fade.
+Hawke and the fugitive Warden join the [[Inquisition]] as they lay siege to [[Adamant Fortress]]. They confront Erimond and Clarel about the truth of the demon binding ritual and attempt to sway the Wardens to their side. When Erimond summons [[Red Lyrium Dragon|Corypheus' dragon]] to deal with the Inquisition, Clarel realizes the truth and turns on him. The dragon attacks and a massive battle against the Warden mages enthralled by Corypheus and their bonded demons ensues. Clarel inflicts her wrath on Erimond, but is killed by the dragon he summoned. Her last spell against the dragon causes it to crash,  leading the ground beneath them to crumble. As the Inquisitor's party falls off the ramparts, they use their [[Anchor|mark]] to open a rift that transports them to the Fade.
-After escaping the Fade and banishing the remaining demons, the [[Nightmare (demon)|Nightmare demon]]'s defeat frees the Grey Warden mages of its control. The Inquisitor then decides the fate of the surviving Grey Wardens —either let them aid the Inquisition to atone for their atrocities or banish them from Orlais.
+The Inquisitor escapes the Fade and banishes the remaining demons. Their defeat of the [[Nightmare (demon)|Nightmare demon]] frees the Grey Warden mages of its control. The Inquisitor then decides the fate of the surviving Grey Wardens —either let them aid the Inquisition to atone for their atrocities or banish them from Orlais.
-{{CodexConditionalParagraph|If the Inquisitor banish the Grey Wardens|}}
+{{CodexConditionalParagraph|If the Inquisitor banishes the Grey Wardens|}}
-The surviving Grey Wardens of Adamant returned to Weisshaupt, and it is believed that a battle for control of the Order erupted soon after. If the Warden ally survived the events of Adamant, it's rumored he is leading a rebellion to change the Order from within. Eventually, even the Grey Wardens from the north nations began to retreat to Weisshaupt and rumors that the Order is on the verge of vanishing began to spread, while all news from Weisshaupt cease.
+The surviving Grey Wardens of Adamant return to Weisshaupt, and it is believed that a battle for control of the Order erupts soon after. If the Warden ally survived the events of Adamant, it's rumored he is leading a rebellion to change the Order from within. Eventually, even the Grey Wardens from the northern nations begin to retreat to Weisshaupt and rumors that the Order is on the verge of vanishing begin to spread, while all news from Weisshaupt cease.
-{{CodexConditionalParagraph|If the Inquisitor ally with the Grey Wardens|}}
+{{CodexConditionalParagraph|If the Inquisitor allied with the Grey Wardens|}}
-The southern Grey Wardens began to slowly rebuild after helping the Inquisition stop a [[Protect Val Gamord from Darkspawn|particularly dangerous darkspawn incursion]], and declare that the Order must change, becoming more open to the general populace. It's rumored that the southern Grey Wardens severed ties with their leaders at Weisshaupt and that both Warden factions are at war. Eventually, all news from Weisshaupt cease.}}
+The southern Grey Wardens begin to slowly rebuild after helping the Inquisition stop a [[Protect Val Gamord from Darkspawn|particularly dangerous darkspawn incursion]], and declare that the Order must change, becoming more open to the general populace. It's rumored that the southern Grey Wardens sever ties with their leaders at Weisshaupt and that both Warden factions are at war. Eventually, all news from Weisshaupt cease.}}
 {{SpoilerDAIT|{{CodexConditionalParagraph|If Rainier was recruited into the Grey Wardens|}}
 Warden [[Blackwall|Rainier]] mentions that the Grey Wardens are presently in a state of upheaval and there have been various heated arguments about the future of the Order.}}
+=== ''Dragon Age: Tevinter Nights'' ===
+{{SpoilerTN|
+{{BioWare canon}}
+'''''The Horror of Hormak'''''<br>
+Investigating the disappearance of Warden Jovis' mining expedition leads Wardens Ramesh and Lesha to discover ancient elven ruins in the [[Deep Roads]], where a massive pool of viscous gray liquid causes darkspawn to mutate in disturbing ways. Jovis himself has turned into a centipede hybrid after drinking the liquid. He retains enough of his consciousness to tell them to destroy the pool, to prevent "her" from having it again. Lesha sacrifices herself to collapse the ruins and give Ramesh the chance to warn the other Wardens, as this place was only one of twelve depicted in the ruins.
+'''''Hunger'''''<br>
+While answering Weisshaupt's summons for all available Wardens, Evka Ivo and Antoine help resolve the village of Eichweill's supposed curse.
+}}
 == Organization ==
-[[File:Dragon-Age-Set-2.jpg|thumb|A Grey Warden in combat<ref>''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Game Master's Guide, set 2, p. 1</ref>]]
 {{Quote|We are Wardens! One and all! Fight's for justice, shield's for vengeance! Crush our enemies! One and all!}}
-:''—Grey Warden song''<ref name="WF">[[Dragon Age: Warden's Fall]], Chapter 3</ref>
+:''—Grey Warden song''<ref>''[[Dragon Age: Warden's Fall]]'', Chapter 3</ref>
 The Order of Grey Wardens is commanded by the [[First Warden]] in Weisshaupt, and consists of a system of semi-autonomous national branches lead by a local commander. Though there is a hierarchy, in practice this is frequently defined by seniority (decided by time of Joining) in the Order.
@@ Line 156: / Line 165: @@
 * Chamberlain of the Grey: The senior archivist at Weisshaupt, and to whom Warden-Commanders send yearly reports. The Chamberlain technically outranks the Warden-Commanders.
 * [[Commander of the Grey]]: Also known as Warden-Commander. The leader of the Grey Wardens in a given country, and under normal circumstances under little direction by the Order. The dwindling communications between Weisshaupt and the branches leave most Warden-Commanders to run their respective branches as they see fit. They can be summoned to Weisshaupt by the First Warden at any time.
-* Field-Commander: A temporary rank used only in times of Blight. A Field-Commander has the same rank and responsabilies of a Warden-Commander in a given area.<ref>Dragon Age: Last Flight, Chapter 11.</ref>
+* Field-Commander: A temporary rank used only in times of Blight. A Field-Commander has the same rank and responsibilities of a Warden-Commander in a given area.<ref>''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', Chapter 11</ref>
 * Constable of the Grey: A Warden-Commander's second-in-command, the Constable, colloquially called Warden-Constable, acts as the field commander and steps in when the Warden-Commander is away.
 * Senior Warden (or Warden-Lieutenant in Orlais): The formal title given to veteran Wardens who deserve special privilege. When a Constable of the Grey is in command, they usually take a Senior Warden to act as their second-in-command. Senior Wardens may command a small group of Wardens or undertake special missions.
-* Archivist: The archivist of a given national Grey Warden branch.<ref>See the [[Soldier's_Peak_(quest)#First_Floor|Archivist demon]] in the quest [[Soldier's Peak (quest)|Soldier's Peak]].</ref>
+* Archivist: The archivist of a given national Grey Warden branch.<ref>See the [[Soldier's Peak (quest)#First Floor|Archivist demon]] during the [[Soldier's Peak (quest)|Soldier's Peak]] quest.</ref>
 * Warden-Ensign: Generally just called Wardens, these are the rank-and-file members of the Order who have survived the Joining ritual.
-* Acolyte: The rank given to the rank-and-file Warden mages.<ref>Mentioned by [[Avernus]] in the  quest Soldier's Peak.</ref>
+* Acolyte: The rank given to the rank-and-file Warden mages.<ref>Mentioned by [[Avernus]] during the [[Soldier's Peak (quest)|Soldier's Peak]] quest.</ref>
 * Warden-Recruit: An individual selected to join the Wardens but who has not yet undertaken the Joining ritual. They are given a formal rank just for committing themselves to the Wardens, regardless of whether or not they survive the Joining. Failed recruits' names are kept in the archives of Weisshaupt in honour of their sacrifice.
@@ Line 168: / Line 177: @@
 :''—[[Duncan]], Ferelden's Commander of the Grey''
-The Grey Wardens are open to men and women from every race, nation and background. As such, they offer formal invitations to join to anyone they see fit to be a member of the Order, regardless of who they are.<ref name="DAPRPG-p7"/> Many families are honored to claim a Grey Warden as one of their own, though few encourage their firstborn to walk that path.<ref name="DAPRPG-p8"/> Grey Wardens are also known to recruit criminals, giving them a chance to redeem themselves by pledging to a good cause.<ref name="DAPRPG-p7"/> They also accept volunteers as well, and elves in particular tend to be eager to submit themselves for the Grey Wardens, as they recruit regardless of social standing and serving is considered by many an honor.<ref name="wot151" />
+The Grey Wardens are open to men and women from every race, nation and background, even criminals. They also accept volunteers, and elves in particular tend to be eager to submit themselves for the Grey Wardens, as they recruit regardless of social standing and serving is considered by many an honor.<ref name="wot151"/>
+One mage in every [[Circle of Magi]] is traditionally recruited,<ref name="wot151"/> usually joining the Order after their [[Harrowing]]s.<ref>[[Codex entry: A Letter from Warden-Commander Clarel]]</ref> The young mage recruit serves as a Warden their entire life from then on. Similar to serving a ruler, yet greatly removed from the degradation they may normally face in society, mage Wardens are given great respect and importance in the Order. Their facilitation of the Joining ritual is essential.<ref name="wot151"/>
-While most people believe that someone must truly hate darkspawn to join the Grey Wardens, in most cases the potential recruits are just responsible individuals with a strong sense of will. In fact, most Grey Wardens see their first darkspawn only after becoming initiates of the Order. More so, veteran Wardens consider that having a personal hatred of the darkspawn can be detrimental to a Warden if it leads them to make rash and irrational decisions.<ref name="DAPRPG-p9">[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]], Game Master's Guide, set 2, p. 9</ref>
+Should they need to, the Grey Wardens possess the Right of Conscription, an authority that dates back to the end of the First Blight and was given to them to ensure they will always have enough members. By using this Right, a Warden may demand that, instantly and irrevocably, any individual from king to criminal be drafted into their ranks, and the conscript cannot refuse being recruited once the Right is invoked. This is specially true in times of Blight.
-The Grey Wardens don't accept just anyone within their ranks, however. Only the best and brightest are allowed. Recruits suffer excruciating tests to determine if they are worthy of being members of the Order.<ref name="DAPRPG-p7"/> In addition, the fact that the Joining ritual kills many of its participants means that the draft may turn out to be a death sentence. While this is seen as unfortunate, this process elevates their membership to the highest caliber. To face a Grey Warden in combat, is to face an elite and deadly opponent.<ref name="DAPRPG-p8">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Player's Guide, set 2, p. 8</ref>
+However, in contemporary times the Right of Conscription is used sparingly for fear of political reprisal, due to the low standing the Order has in some countries—especially in Ferelden. The Grey Wardens prefer to not invoke the Right unless there is no other option, and usually is invoked only to quell protest from a recruit's lords or commanders.
-Mages are traditionally recruited one per [[Circle of Magi]],<ref name="wot151" /> usually joining the Order after their [[Harrowing]]s.<ref>[[Codex entry: A Letter from Warden-Commander Clarel]]</ref> The young mage recruit serves as a Warden their entire life from then on. Similar to serving a ruler, yet greatly removed from the degradation they may normally face in society, mage Wardens are given great respect and importance in the Order. Their facilitation of the Joining ritual is essential.<ref name="wot151" />
-Should they need to, the Grey Wardens possess the Right of Conscription, an authority that dates back to the end of the First Blight and was given to them to ensure they will always have enough members. By using this Right, a Warden may demand that, instantly and irrevocably, any individual from king to criminal be drafted into their ranks, and the conscript cannot refuse being recruited once the Right is invoked. This is specially true in times of Blight.<ref name="DAPRPG-p7"/>
-However, in contemporary times the Right of Conscription is used sparingly for fear of political reprisal, due to the low standing the Order has in some countries—especially in Ferelden. The Grey Wardens prefer to not invoke the Right unless there is no other option, and usually is invoked only to quell protest from a recruit's lords or commanders.<ref name="DAPRPG-p7"/>
 {{SpoilerTC|
-[[Duncan]] was recruited via the Right of Conscription, after he refused the offer originally. As he was about to be executed at the time for killing another Warden, [[Guy]], this caused political trouble both within and without the Wardens.
+[[Duncan]] was recruited via the Right of Conscription, after he refused the offer originally. As he was about to be executed at the time for killing another Warden, [[Guy]], this caused political trouble both within and without the Wardens.}}
-}}
 {{SpoilerDAO|
-Duncan used the Right to get [[Alistair]] out of his [[Templar Order|Templar]] training when the [[Chantry]]'s [[grand cleric]] resisted. The Right can also be used on [[the Warden]] during their [[Origins|origin]] to ensure that they join the Grey Wardens. It is used automatically on the City Elf, Dwarven Commoner, Dwarven Noble, and Mage to spare them from various grisly fates, and can be used on the Dalish Elf or Human Noble if they initially refuse Duncan's offer.}}
+Duncan used the Right to get Alistair out of his [[Templar Order|Templar]] training when the [[Chantry]]'s [[Grand cleric]] resisted. The Right can also be used on [[the Warden]] during their [[Origins|origin]] to ensure that they join the Grey Wardens. It is used automatically on the City Elf, Dwarven Commoner, Dwarven Noble, and Mage to spare them from various grisly fates, and can be used on the Dalish Elf or Human Noble if they initially refuse Duncan's offer.}}
 {{SpoilerDAOA|
 [[The Warden-Commander]] can choose to use the Right of Conscription to recruit both [[Anders]] and [[Nathaniel Howe]].}}
+{{SpoilerLF|
-{{SpoilerLF|After the outbreak of the [[Mage-Templar War]], the First Enchanter of the Hossberg Circle sends a request for aid to Weisshaupt Fortress; in response, the Wardens invoke the Right of Conscription, proclaiming that any mage who wished to escape the fighting by joining the Wardens would be welcome in their ranks, and that such mages are not to be troubled by the templars.<ref>Last Flight Chapter 1</ref>}}
+After the outbreak of the [[Mage-Templar War]], the First Enchanter of the Hossberg Circle sends a request for aid to Weisshaupt Fortress; in response, the Wardens invoke the Right of Conscription, proclaiming that any mage who wished to escape the fighting by joining the Wardens would be welcome in their ranks, and that such mages are not to be troubled by the templars.<ref name="lf1"/>}}
+{{Tabletop RPG material}}
+While most people believe that someone must truly hate darkspawn to join the Grey Wardens, in most cases the potential recruits are just responsible individuals with a strong sense of will. In fact, most Grey Wardens see their first darkspawn only after becoming initiates of the Order. More so, veteran Wardens consider that having a personal hatred of the darkspawn can be detrimental to a Warden if it leads them to make rash and irrational decisions.<ref name="rpg9">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Game Master's Guide, set 2, p. 9</ref>
+The Grey Wardens don't accept just anyone within their ranks, however. Only the best and brightest are allowed. Recruits suffer excruciating tests to determine if they are worthy of being members of the Order.<ref name="rpg7"/> In addition, the fact that the Joining ritual kills many of its participants means that the draft may turn out to be a death sentence. While this is seen as unfortunate, this process elevates their membership to the highest caliber. To face a Grey Warden in combat, is to face an elite and deadly opponent.<ref name="rpg8">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Player's Guide, set 2, p. 8</ref>
 == The Joining ==
@@ Line 198: / Line 207: @@
 == Philosophy and methods ==
 {{Quote|The Grey Wardens hold a lonely vigil, enduring lives of hardship and sacrifice to protect the world from an evil that can never truly be conquered. Few would volunteer for this: the suffering, isolation, and promise of a violent death. But the path of a Warden is also one of valor, and those who give themselves to the cause are rewarded with the knowledge that they have become something more than they were.<ref>[http://www.dragonage.com/#!/en_US/characters/humans/blackwall Blackwall character profile]. Dragon Age.</ref>}}
+{{Tabletop RPG material}}
+The Grey Wardens are aware that they are fighting a war of attrition against the darkspawn, and that they are in the losing side. Because of that, they know that they will have to use whatever tactic they can devise, no matter how unorthodox, to win in the end. And so, they acquire whatever resources they can regardless of the method, and employ whomever they must, regardless of their defects of morals or character. They often turn a blind eye to [[blood magic]], deal with [[demon]]s of the [[Fade]], and do whatever else they must so long as those efforts led to the Blight's end.<ref name="rpg8"/>
+While it is easy to assume that all Grey Wardens want nothing more than to end all Blights forever, some individual Wardens have such zeal for the fight that they wish only for a lifetime of tests and war, however.<ref name="rpg9"/> This means that the ranks of the Order are filled with dangerous men and women, some unscrupulous in the extreme, but the Wardens make a point of suspending judgment of any who are effective against the darkspawn.<ref name="rpg8"/>
-The Grey Wardens are aware that they are fighting a war of attrition against the darkspawn, and that they are in the losing side. Because of that, they know that they will have to use whatever tactic they can devise, no matter how unorthodox, to win in the end. And so, they acquire whatever resources they can regardless of the method, and employ whomever they must, regardless of their defects of morals or character. They often turn a blind eye to [[blood magic]], deal with [[demon]]s of the [[Fade]], and do whatever else they must so long as those efforts led to the Blight's end.<ref name="DAPRPG-p8"/>
+Even for their willingness to use any tactic, however, a philosophical split—unknown to people not associated with the Order—has long divided the Grey Wardens into two distinct factions: the ones who feel that the eradication of darkspawn is paramount, and the ones who see their protective mission as the greatest purpose of their calling.<ref name="rpg8"/>
-While it is easy to assume that all Grey Wardens want nothing more than to end all Blights forever, some individual Wardens have such zeal for the fight that they wish only for a lifetime of tests and war, however.<ref name="DAPRPG-p9"/> This means that the ranks of the Order are filled with dangerous men and women, some unscrupulous in the extreme, but the Wardens make a point of suspending judgment of any who are effective against the darkspawn.<ref name="DAPRPG-p8"/>
+For instance, if a village is under attack by a host of darkspawn, the Grey Wardens oriented to protection would chance alerting the darkspawn to their presence by warning the villagers of the danger, helping them to safety as best as they can before facing the monsters; while those oriented to destruction would be more likely to sacrifice the village before springing a more effective ambush on the darkspawn. The dead villagers, in their minds, are an unfortunate but necessary sacrifice.<ref name="rpg8"/>
-Even for their willingness to use any tactic, however, a philosophical split—unknown to people not associated with the Order—has long divided the Grey Wardens into two distinct factions: the ones who feel that the eradication of darkspawn is paramount, and the ones who see their protective mission as the greatest purpose of their calling.<ref name="DAPRPG-p8"/>
+However, while Grey Wardens are expected to do their duty whatever it takes, they are frequently admonished to avoid offending local authorities where at all possible. Although in times past the authority of the Grey Wardens was unquestioned, after the Fourth Blight things changed, and the Order isn't as powerful as it used to be.<ref name="rpg7"/>
-For instance, if a village is under attack by a host of darkspawn, the Grey Wardens oriented to protection would chance alerting the darkspawn to their presence by warning the villagers of the danger, helping them to safety as best as they can before facing the monsters; while those oriented to destruction would be more likely to sacrifice the village before springing a more effective ambush on the darkspawn. The dead villagers, in their minds, are an unfortunate but necessary sacrifice.<ref name="DAPRPG-p8"/>
+The Grey Wardens' first allegiance is to their duty, and their second to the Order, but Wardens are not expected to abandon the lives they had before their Joinings. Rather, are encouraged to put their worldly ties to use in furtherance of the Order's aims. Noble titles and merchant wealth can often accomplish what weapons cannot.<ref name="rpg8"/> Grey Wardens are also allowed to marry, have romantic relationships or retain the relationships they had before joining the Order<ref name="Grey Warden children">If made [[Fereldan royalty and nobility|king]], [[Alistair]] will mention that he knew about Wardens who had children before their [[Joining]].</ref>, if they want to.
-However, while Grey Wardens are expected to do their duty whatever it takes, they are frequently admonished to avoid offending local authorities where at all possible. Although in times past the authority of the Grey Wardens was unquestioned, after the Fourth Blight things changed, and the Order isn't as powerful as it used to be.<ref name="DAPRPG-p7"/>
+While some Grey Wardens avoid serious romantic entanglements knowing that their lives are at constant risk, others enjoy love as much as they can, figuring that they should embrace life to the fullest while they can.<ref name="rpg9"/> Some of those Wardens even allow their families to know the risks of being a Grey Warden, knowing that one day they will not see them again.<ref>For instance, [[Kristoff]] warned [[Aura]] that one day he will not return to her, as mentioned by Aura during [[Justice for Kristoff]] quest.</ref>
-The Grey Wardens' first allegiance is to their duty, and their second to the Order, but Wardens are not expected to abandon the lives they had before their Joinings. Rather, are encouraged to put their worldly ties to use in furtherance of the Order's aims. Noble titles and merchant wealth can often accomplish what weapons cannot.<ref name="DAPRPG-p8"/> Grey Wardens are also allowed to marry, have romantic relationships or retain the relationships they had before joining the Order,<ref>If made king, [[Alistair]] will mention that he knew about Wardens who had children before their Joinings.</ref> if they want to.
+Likewise, some Grey Wardens make a point to stand apart from the communities they serve, knowing they may be called on to sacrifice, tomorrow, those they protect today. But again, other Wardens take the opposite stance, befriending any and all in the moment and addressing sacrifice when the times require it.<ref name="rpg9"/>
-While some Grey Wardens avoid serious romantic entanglements knowing that their lives are at constant risk, others enjoy love as much as they can, figuring that they should embrace life to the fullest while they can.<ref name="DAPRPG-p9"/> Some of those Wardens even allow their families to know the risks of being a Grey Warden, knowing that one day they will not see them again.<ref>For instance, [[Kristoff]] warned [[Aura]] that one day he will not return to her, as mentioned by Aura in [[Justice for Kristoff]].</ref>
+Whatever relationships they maintain or cultivate, however, Wardens are expected to remain neutral, and are discouraged from taking the field in civil or religious conflict against any enemy other than the darkspawn.<ref name="rpg8"/>
-Likewise, some Grey Wardens make a point to stand apart from the communities they serve, knowing they may be called on to sacrifice, tomorrow, those they protect today. But again, other Wardens take the opposite stance, befriending any and all in the moment and addressing sacrifice when the times require it.<ref name="DAPRPG-p9"/>
-Whatever relationships they maintain or cultivate, however, Wardens are expected to remain neutral, and are discouraged from taking the field in civil or religious conflict against any enemy other than the darkspawn.<ref name="DAPRPG-p8"/>
 == The Calling ==
@@ Line 223: / Line 232: @@
 One road was left before him.</poem>''|[[Codex entry: Shred of Blue]]}}
-Just as they keep many secrets from outsiders, including the Joining, Grey Wardens also keep certain secrets hidden from many of their own members. It is heavily implied that the Calling—also known as '''the Long Walk'''<ref>According to [[Janeka]] during ''[[Legacy]]''.</ref>—was a ritual created by the first Grey Wardens to prevent future members from watching themselves ultimately succumb to the darkspawn taint. Contrary to belief of the junior members, surviving the Joining does not confer to Grey Wardens a true immunity from "blight sickness", but rather merely delays its onset. This misunderstanding is a calculated lie the senior members allow the new Wardens to believe as one of the oldest traditions of the Order.<ref name="DAGRPG-p7">''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Game Master's Guide, set 2, p. 7</ref>
+Just as they keep many secrets from outsiders, including the Joining, Grey Wardens also keep certain secrets hidden from many of their own members. It is heavily implied that the Calling—also known as '''the Long Walk'''<ref>Mentioned by [[Janeka]] during the [[Legacy (quest)]].</ref>—was a ritual created by the first Grey Wardens to prevent future members from watching themselves ultimately succumb to the darkspawn taint.
-The Calling begins with nightmares and bad omens<ref>According to dialogue with the Warden ally in Inquisition.</ref>, and then the Warden begins to hear eerie music and whispers, the same "call" the darkspawn hear to search for the Old Gods. Although some junior Wardens claim that it takes a person about thirty years after their Joining to hear it, the gap varies depending on the willpower of an individual Warden and the level of his or her interaction with the darkspawn. As such, Grey Wardens during a Blight are likely to have shorter lifespans. Otherwise, it is commonly between ten to thirty years that the Wardens hear the Calling.<ref name="Thedas UK">Thedas UK (January 14, 2012). [http://swooping-is-bad.livejournal.com/1286233.html "David Gaider Interview"]. Retrieved January 29, 2012.</ref>
+The Calling begins with nightmares and bad omens<ref>According to dialogue with the Warden ally in ''[[Dragon Age: Inquisition]]''.</ref>, and then the Warden begins to hear eerie music and whispers, the same "call" the darkspawn hear to search for the Old Gods. Although some junior Wardens claim that it takes a person about thirty years after their Joining to hear it, the gap varies depending on the willpower of an individual Warden and the level of his or her interaction with the darkspawn. As such, Grey Wardens during a Blight are likely to have shorter lifespans. Otherwise, it is commonly between ten to thirty years that the Wardens hear the Calling.<ref name="Thedas UK">Thedas UK (January 14, 2012). [http://swooping-is-bad.livejournal.com/1286233.html "David Gaider Interview"]. Retrieved January 29, 2012.</ref>
-According to ritual, a Grey Warden who hear the Calling celebrates as he or she see fit before descending underground and entering the Deep Roads to slay as many darkspawn as they can before being overwhelmed and slain. Many within the Order believe that this ritual is done for practical reasons, to take down as many enemies as a Grey Warden can before dying, but the truth is darker. The older Wardens know that the taint will not kill them in the end, but it will transform them into [[ghoul]]s that feel compelled to join the darkspawn horde,<ref name="DAGRPG-p3"/> and they prefer to die in battle than to bolster the enemy forces.<ref name="DAGRPG-p7"/>
+According to ritual, a Grey Warden who hear the Calling celebrates as he or she see fit before descending underground and entering the Deep Roads to slay as many darkspawn as they can before being overwhelmed and slain. Many within the Order believe that this ritual is done for practical reasons, to take down as many enemies as a Grey Warden can before dying.
-It is also implied that even if a Grey Warden would run away, given time all Wardens would find themselves in the Deep Roads, Blight-Lands or pursued by darkspawn, for they all are connected by the taint that draws them to each other. ''"You'd seek them out... or they'd seek you out."'' Thus, one can assume that almost every Grey Warden will die at the hands of darkspawn<ref>According to dialogue with Riordan in Origins.</ref> or become a ghoul and part of the horde.<ref name="DAGRPG-p7"/>
+It is also implied that even if a Grey Warden would run away, given time all Wardens would find themselves in the Deep Roads, Blight-Lands or pursued by darkspawn, for they all are connected by the taint that draws them to each other. ''"You'd seek them out... or they'd seek you out."'' Thus, one can assume that almost every Grey Warden will die at the hands of darkspawn.<ref>According to dialogue with [[Riordan]] in ''[[Dragon Age: Origins]]''.</ref>
 {{SpoilerTC|
-Several Wardens, under [[Genevieve|Commander Genevieve]], underwent a premature Calling early in the Dragon Age. Their Calling and subsequent physical taint—resembling a nasty rash— was caused by magical amulets designed to accelerate their taint. [[Fiona]], a Grey Warden contemporary of [[Duncan]], was one of the affected, and was cured of the accelerated taint shortly after the mission into the Deep Roads was completed. The Warden mages at Weisshaupt speculated that she might be permanently free of the Calling. Considering that Fiona was allowed to leave the Wardens and become [[Grand Enchanter]] of the [[Circle of Magi]] 27 years after that, it can be assumed that her cure was permanent.
+Several Wardens, under [[Genevieve|Commander Genevieve]], underwent a premature Calling early in the Dragon Age. Their Calling and subsequent physical taint—resembling a nasty rash— was caused by magical amulets designed to accelerate their taint. [[Fiona]], a Grey Warden contemporary of [[Duncan]], was one of the affected, and was cured of the accelerated taint shortly after the mission into the Deep Roads was completed. The Warden mages at Weisshaupt speculated that she might be permanently free of the Calling. Considering that Fiona was allowed to leave the Wardens and become [[Grand Enchanter]] of the [[Circle of Magi]] 27 years after that, it can be assumed that her cure was permanent.}}
-}}
+{{SpoilerDA2|
-{{SpoilerDA2|Some [[Taint|corrupted]] entities such as [[Corypheus]] can use [[Taint|Blight magic]] to imitate the Call of an Old God similar to what Grey Wardens hear during a Blight as well as during their Calling. This can even allow Wardens to be controlled against their will.
+Some [[Taint|corrupted]] entities such as [[Corypheus]] can use [[Taint#Blight magic|Blight magic]] to imitate the Call of an Old God similar to what Grey Wardens hear during a Blight as well as during their Calling. This can even allow Wardens to be controlled against their will.}}
-}}
 {{SpoilerDAI|
-If [[The Warden]] is alive, it can be revealed in conversation with a romanced [[Morrigan]], [[Leliana]], or a Grey Warden [[Alistair]] that the Hero of Ferelden is currently searching for a way to prevent the Calling. The Warden's lover remarks that [[Fiona]] was able to remove the taint from herself through means unknown to her, and that [[Avernus]] was able to prolong his life to unnatural lengths through experimentation. The Hero of Ferelden is currently following leads that may allow them to prevent the effects of the Calling, and grant them a longer life.
+If [[The Warden]] is alive, it can be revealed in conversation with a romanced [[Morrigan]], [[Leliana]], or a Grey Warden Alistair that the Hero of Ferelden is currently searching for a way to prevent the Calling. The Warden's lover remarks that [[Fiona]] was able to remove the taint from herself through means unknown to her, and that [[Avernus]] was able to prolong his life to unnatural lengths through experimentation. The Hero of Ferelden is currently following leads that may allow them to prevent the effects of the Calling, and grant them a longer life.}}
-}}
 {{SpoilerLF|
-[[Mabari]] are sometimes Joined by the Wardens, and may go through a Calling of their own.<ref>''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', pg. 140.</ref>
+[[Mabari]] are sometimes Joined by the Wardens, and may go through a Calling of their own.<ref>''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', p. 140</ref>}}
-}}
 == Relations with the dwarves ==
-Grey Wardens and the dwarven people have always had a kinship through their shared battle against the darkspawn. Paragon Moroc's contribution to the founding of the Order is a key reason there is no loss of [[caste]] associated with becoming a Grey Warden.<ref name="rpg10"/>
+Grey Wardens and the dwarven people have always had a kinship through their shared battle against the darkspawn.
-Dwarves are viewed as excellent recruits to the Order due to their experience against the darkspawn.<ref>[[Loghain Mac Tir|Teyrn Loghain]] will remark at [[Ostagar]] that it is wise of the Wardens to recruit amongst the dwarves due to their skill and prowess against the darkspawn.</ref> However, as there are fewer dwarves due to low birth rates, there are also fewer dwarven Wardens.<ref>Mentioned by [[Duncan]] in the [[Dwarf Noble Origin]].</ref> Grey Wardens are also the only surface organization to care about the endless war the dwarves wage against the darkspawn in the Deep Roads.<ref>{{Cite wot|102}}</ref>
+Dwarves are viewed as excellent recruits to the Order due to their experience against the darkspawn.<ref>[[Loghain Mac Tir|Teyrn Loghain]] will remark at [[Ostagar]] that it is wise of the Wardens to recruit amongst the [[Dwarf|dwarves]] due to their skill and prowess against the [[darkspawn]].</ref> However, as there are fewer dwarves due to low birth rates, there are also fewer dwarven Wardens.<ref>Mentioned by [[Duncan]] in the [[Dwarf Noble Origin]].</ref> Grey Wardens are also the only surface organization to care about the endless war the dwarves wage against the darkspawn in the Deep Roads.<ref>{{Cite wot|102}}</ref>
 When the time of a Grey Warden's Calling draws near, a Warden honors a longstanding agreement between the Wardens and the dwarves and serves a year fighting darkspawn in the Deep Roads at the side of the dwarves.<ref>{{Cite wot|152}}</ref> When the advance of the taint is unbearable, the Warden is celebrated by the dwarves and then enters the Deep Roads for their Calling.<ref>As [[Bregan]] did in ''[[Dragon Age: The Calling]]''.</ref> In return the dwarves have signed [[Ancient Treaties|treaties]] with the Wardens promising aid in times of a Blight.
@@ Line 263: / Line 269: @@
 * [[Avernus]]
 * Blackwall <!-- This is the original Blackwall who was never seen in the game. He should not have a link until an article is made for him. The Blackwall seen in the game is listed in this article as Thom Rainier under potential Grey Wardens due to him stealing the original Blackwall's identity. -->
-* [[Carinus]]: known as the founder of the Grey Warden Order in some legends<ref>Green Ronin. ''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Game Master's Guide, set 2, p. 3.</ref>
 * [[Caronel]], elven Warden from [[Ferelden]], and [[Arcane Warrior]]
+* [[Carinus]], legendary founder of the Grey Warden Order<ref>{{Cite wot2|17}}</ref>
 * [[Clarel]], Warden-Commander of Orlais in 9:41 Dragon
 * [[Corin]], Hero of the Second Blight who killed the Archdemon Zazikel
@@ Line 272: / Line 278: @@
 * [[Genevieve]], Warden-Commander of Orlais in 8:99 [[Blessed Age|Blessed]]
 * [[Hafter (dog)]]<ref>[[Kell ap Morgan]] considers [[Hafter (dog)]] a Grey Warden by virtue of his tainted blood in ''[[Dragon Age: The Calling]]'', p. 63.</ref>
-* [[Isseya]]: sister of Garahel
+* [[Isseya]], sister of Garahel
 * [[Janeka]]
 * [[Julien]]
 * [[Kell ap Morgan]]
 * [[Kristoff]]
-* Kristoff: former Commander of the Grey of Orlais; not to be confused with the Kristoff of ''[[Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening]]''
+* Kristoff, former Commander of the Grey of Orlais; not to be confused with the Kristoff of ''[[Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening]]''
 * [[Larius]]
 * Loris, a Hero of the Third Blight<ref>[[Cleave (Axe)]]</ref>
-* Nakiri, an Ander from the Donark Forest who suggested using blood as a weapon against the darkspawn, inspiring the Joining ritual<ref>''[[Dragon Age (tabletop RPG)]]'', Game Master's Guide, set 2, p. 3.</ref>
 * [[Neriah]], Corin's lover who sacrificed her life to save him
 * [[Nicolas]]
 * [[Riordan]]
 * [[Sophia Dryden]], Warden-Commander of Ferelden in 7:5 [[Storm Age|Storm]]
 * [[Stroud]]
 * [[Utha]]
@@ Line 301: / Line 306: @@
 * [[Velanna]]
 * [[Gregory Dedrick]]
-* [[Thom Rainier]] <!--(The [[Blackwall]] who accompanied [[The Inquisitor]])-->
+* [[Thom Rainier]] <!--(The Blackwall who accompanied The Inquisitor)-->
 ;Known Warden-Recruits who died taking the Joining<nowiki>:</nowiki>
@@ Line 307: / Line 312: @@
 * [[Jory|Ser Jory]]
 * [[Mhairi|Ser Mhairi]]
-* Diguier, a former [[Templar Order|Templar]] Knight-Lieutenant from [[Orlais]]<ref>''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', pg. 164.</ref>
+* Diguier, a former [[Templar Order|Templar]] Knight-Lieutenant from [[Orlais]]<ref>''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', p. 164</ref>
 == Known strongholds ==
@@ Line 328: / Line 333: @@
 === Free Marches ===
-* Warden Keep at Ansburg<ref>[http://www.livestream.com/biowaretv/video?clipId=pla_3524a0bd-e0ea-4211-936a-34482476a08f Bethany mentions a Warden keep at Ansburg in the Comic Con Legacy demo]</ref>
 * [[Corypheus's Prison - Tower Base|Warden Prison]]
 == Heraldry ==
-The [[heraldry]] of the Grey Wardens is the "Griffon Rampant",<ref name="DAPRPG-p7"/> an argent griffon segreant on azure. The Grey Warden Commanders (at least in the time of Sophia Dryden) seem to have their own heraldry as well. The blazon for that charge might be rendered as "two griffons addorsed, wings elevated, maintaining a branch fesswise". On Sophia Dryden's [[Warden Commander Armor]], the charge appears in or on a field sable. The artistic rendition of the charge on the armor is distinct from that seen on the heavier metal shields.
+The [[heraldry]] of the Grey Wardens is an argent griffon segreant on azure. The Grey Warden Commanders (at least in the time of Sophia Dryden) seem to have their own heraldry as well. The blazon for that charge might be rendered as "two griffons addorsed, wings elevated, maintaining a branch fesswise". On Sophia Dryden's [[Warden Commander Armor]], the charge appears in or on a field sable. The artistic rendition of the charge on the armor is distinct from that seen on the heavier metal shields.
+<gallery>
-<gallery widths="189" captionalign="center" hideaddbutton="true">
 h greywrada 0.png|Grey Wardens
 h greywradb 0.png|Commander of the Grey
@@ Line 341: / Line 345: @@
 == Trivia ==
+* Alistair's exposition of the Grey Wardens hearing the Calling thirty years after their joining was something [[David Gaider]] regretted adding, since it is "a long time for that time frame." Although it was not really his intention when this was written, he clarified that the number varies.<ref name="Thedas UK"/>
-* No Qunari has ever joined the Grey Wardens. There are, however, rumors of several [[Tal-Vashoth]] taking [[the Joining]] in recent decades.<ref name="DAPRPG-p7"/>
-* Alistair's exposition of the Grey Wardens hearing the Calling thirty years after their joining was something [[David Gaider]] regretted adding, since it is "a long time for that time frame." Although it was not really his intention when this was written, he clarified that the number varies.<ref name="Thedas UK" />
 * Although Riordan is a Warden from Jader, he refers to himself as Senior Warden, not Warden-Lieutenant.
+*According to [[Alistair]], the [[Taint]] in a Grey Warden negatively affects the Grey Warden's fertility. Most Grey Wardens are only able to conceive or father a child before their [[Joining]].<ref name="Grey Warden children"/>
-*For some reason, [[Aveline Vallen]]'s armour bears the Warden heraldry when she becomes [[Kirkwall City Guard|Guard Captain]].
+* For unknown reasons, [[Aveline Vallen]]'s armor bears the Warden heraldry when she becomes [[Kirkwall City Guard|Guard Captain]].
-* Wardens frequently train with weighted bundles of canes, sparring with one another and with pells to build physical strength.<ref>;''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', pg. 216.</ref>
+* Wardens frequently train with weighted bundles of canes, sparring with one another and with pells to build physical strength.<ref>;''[[Dragon Age: Last Flight]]'', p. 216</ref>
-* Many Wardens keep a list of names of those who were lost in the [[Joining]].  Those casualties are regarded as being fellow Wardens despite not having survived the rite, and this list of names is cherished and remembered.<ref>{{Cite wot2|119.}}</ref>
+* Many Wardens keep a list of names of those who were lost in the [[Joining]]. Those casualties are regarded as being fellow Wardens despite not having survived the rite, and this list of names is cherished and remembered.<ref>{{Cite wot2|119}}</ref>
 * Orlesian Grey Wardens who carry out great deeds are rewarded with the Silverite Wings of Valor. <ref>[[Codex entry: Blackwall]]</ref>
-*Training within the Order appears to be somewhat class-blind, with [[Warrior]]s (and likely [[Rogue]]s) training [[Mages]], for example, and presumably mages training warriors and rogues in various areas as well.  Likely there is something each class can learn from the others, regardless of natural abilities.<ref>If [[Jean-Marc Stroud]] is [[Hawke]]'s Grey Warden contact in ''[[Dragon Age: Inquisition]]'' he will note that he trained some of the enslaved Warden mages himself.</ref>
+* Training within the Order appears to be somewhat class-blind, with [[warrior]]s (and likely [[rogue]]s) training [[mages]], for example, and presumably mages training warriors and rogues in various areas as well. Likely there is something each class can learn from the others, regardless of natural abilities.<ref>If [[Jean-Marc Stroud]] is [[Hawke]]'s Grey Warden contact in ''[[Dragon Age: Inquisition]]'' he will note that he trained some of the enslaved Warden [[mage]]s himself.</ref>
+{{Tabletop RPG material}}
+* No Qunari has ever joined the Grey Wardens. There are, however, rumors of several [[Tal-Vashoth]] taking [[the Joining]] in recent decades.<ref name="rpg7"/>
 == Gallery ==