Grey Warden

Born in the White Peaks, close to the skies, with a name long forgotten, this Wolf has been frail, but knowledgeable. Living by old traditions, his life was to be ended early, for he would've grown into nothing more but a burden to his Pack. However, when the Alpha tried to kill him, the strong wolf was struck with sudden illness and died shortly after.

The pup was raised as the Pack declared him a prophet's child. Young as he may be, the pup grew more knowledgeable by the day. Seeking the old for stories and legends, whilst speaking to the young and strong for their hunting wisdom. Within his steps, the wolf would not grow in strength himself. He felt more home under the shades of the trees and the damp darkness of the caverns. The young wolf felt remorse for his actions, sorrow for his prey and love for all beings alive and prowling. A sight most unusual for a predator.

His Pack grew more concerned, cautious and disgusted with him as he expressed his lack of interest in females, his fascination with the night and Darkness, as well as his strange dreams. Many within the Pack believed him to be cursed at some point, for those who tried to harm or humiliate him were met with harm and frightful encounters, that left them paralysed for nights on end. The young wolf didn't know how any of this happened, but for the longest time he felt watched and broken. Something tried pulling him westwards. But he was frightened to leave the safety of his Pack, no matter how hostile some of them were. The pull became agonizing over the many months he ignored it.

One day, he was called to the summit of the mountain by an entity in his dreams. During the night he snuck away and travelled alone to the peak of his home. A crow met him there. One big enough to intimidate even the bravest of wolves. The feathered being called itself "The Old Dark", and lamented the hearts and minds of the creatures of this world.

"Though equality is spoken of, thine own existence is proof of such false truths. For their insolence, punishment followed... But thee, child, have potential... Thine heart shines differently. A brightness rivalling my daughter, the Moon."

The Old Dark prophetised him the Dawn of a better world and named him his Warden, pleading the young wolf to shepherd his kin on the right path. Back at the Den he told his Pack about what transpired, but neither would they believe him, they also were convinced that he had allowed Evil to take hold of his mind. The new Alpha, fed up with his existence being an excuse to leech off of them, attacked him, but was stopped by a massive Crow swooping from the trees. The feathered fiend pecked at the wolf and permanently blinded him, calling out for the young one to scurry off to the Lake. With a heavy heart the Warden declared his exile and declaring himself the "Grey Warden". Once more he tried to reason with his people, but they stripped him of his name and declared him traitor to the Pack. Thus he was forced to seek the aid of the Old Dark and run for his life.

Long they chased him across the hills and cliffs, down into the plains and up the summit. Day after day, he struggled for survival, but the Crows helped him out. Pointing to hideouts, sharing food with him and offering their protection. The Old Dark ensured that he would not have to worry, for he found "a piece broken from him long ago". Wondrous, the young wolf asked what he meant. "Someone who will return warmth and comfort back into his life.", he answered, before leaving him to rest.

When the Warden reached the Lake, the Old Dark asked him to stay here and wait for his return. The place was lush on vegetation, flourishing with life of all kind. A true small paradise, hidden away from the eyes of unwanted. For many Moons the young wolf waited as he was told. His only company, three crows that kept watch over him.
But he couldn't hide forever and his old Pack finally tracked him down. A fight ensued that left him wounded. The three Crows tried protecting him, but couldn't hold the wolves off long enough. As it seems his road would end, a giant Cloud of Crows dropped from the sky and tore through the Pack, chasing them off. The Old Dark had returned.

He rested by the Lake side. Soon after, another Wolf appeared, but with no hostility. He felt familiar, like someone he met long ago. Without word he coxed his
head gently and smiled. Admiring this kin of his, who's fur carried the scent of distant dunes.

"The Old Dark did not lie.", he then said, "Such warmth and comfort your gaze brings me..."

The
wolf introduced himself as "Zevran". He had denounced his tribe long ago, seeking answers to a drawn feeling that has guided him here. Their reasoning
different, but their goal seemingly entwined. As they spoke more, the Grey Warden
felt a certain connection to this lone wolf. The two made a cave at the
lake their home and decided to stick together. Slowly, day after day,
they grew closer, as he recovered from the struggles of his past. Soon the young Grey fell for Zevran's charm, but feared that these feelings wouldn't be mutual. However, Zevran ensured him it wasn't so, feeling similarly strong for his new partner. Knowing their affection for one another would be fuel
to other packs ire, the Warden thought of seeking guidance from the Old Dark. However, Zevran decided not to let this get in their
way. For the first time in his life he found fulfilment and true joy.
He would not let anyone take it from him again. Hearing this commitment sparked passion back into the Warden's heart.

The Old Dark, pleased with their growth, ensured his support and gave Zevran a new name.

"The Crow", he
called himself from now on, leaving his true name only to his Grey
Warden and the Old Dark, which seemingly watches over them.