Anything For You- Anders POV

Anders had learned that in Kirkwall, the occasional scream was inevitable. Between overly dramatic nobles and the excessive supply of raiders, thieves, and mercenaries, it was inevitable. But what had started as one soon because a chorus of screams. That spoke of something more.

Anders handed Liz to Bodahn and went to investigate. He opened the door and was greeted by a horrible view. Qunari soldiers were in the streets, throwing their spears at those who ran, burning buildings, and dragging civilians they hadn't killed through the street. Some by their wrist or ankle, others by their hair. One soldier set his sights on him and threw a spear his direction. He deflected it with an arcane shield and quickly shut and locked the door.

"Everyone upstairs now! Get to the Nursery!" He shouted to the staff that he had come to see as friends. Orana had flinched when he raised his voice, but did as she was told, fleeing upstairs. Bodahn, holding Liz in one arm, grabbed Sandal's hand and dragged him upstairs with him. Anders quickly followed behind, his heart pounding against his ribcage.

The qunari were attacking. Marian went to try and resolve matters and now they were seizing Kirkwall. Was she alive? Had she been the first casualty? Why didn't he go with her?? He could have protected her...

He fought back tears, knowing that it was time to focus on the people he could save. He would grieve later. For now, Liz needed him. He was all she had left.

Bodahn handed Liz to Orana and helped Anders barricade the door with her dresser as Anders quickly explained what he had seen. Once the door was blocked Anders put up a barrier and maintained it with his full concentration. That qunari had seen him. Surely he would try to get inside.

But then...nothing. They remained in the nursery, Orana playing with Liz to try and keep her happy, while Bodahn did his best to keep Sandal calm as the boy started to become claustrophobic in the small space. The sounds of screams were dying down, so perhaps the qunari had moved on past this part of Hightown? They could only hope.

More time passed, and Anders still maintained the barrier. Until things were quiet, or some sign of life was seen through the nursery window, he would be vigilant.

"ANDERS!!"

His heart skipped several beats at the calling of his name, but he recognized the voice as Fenris. If Fenris lived then maybe Marian lived too. He dropped the barrier and he and Bodahn quickly pulled back the dresser just enough for him to slip out of the door.

"Block this up again behind me, just in case." He whispered to the dwarf before closing the door behind him.

Fenris stood there, wild eyed and glowing as bright as a star.

"We heard the fighting...Why are you here?" He asked carefully, he didn't have enough details to know if Fenris was still his ally. He always had an affinity for the Qunari, and a distaste for him. If he had betrayed Marian to save himself...

"Marian hurt. Needs you." Fenris panted out.

His heart dropped into his stomach. She was alive, but she had not gotten out unscathed. Why hadn't he insisted on going with her? He could have protected her. She wouldn't be injured waiting on him to arrive to help. He ran down the stairs and past Fenris, unlocking and throwing open the door. How did Fenris get in if it was still locked? He'd have to ask later.

"Lead the way."