A/N: This story is very AU, set in Tevinter. Hawke is sold into slavery and comes into the hands of Danarius. I realize that there are various other tales of this AU, but I believe mine to be unique. This story is very close to my heart and I hope that people here will be able to find the same joy in reading it as I did in writing. BIG thanks to Hatsepsut for being my beta. This is so much better because of your input. Also to Kristen...thanks babe.
Act 1
Chapter 1
"The Wonderful Prize"
Fenris stood stoically in the corner of Danarius's study, looking forward at the wall in front of him. He absentmindedly counted the books on a nearby shelf, just as he had done countless times before. When Danarius asked for a refill of wine he went and got it, when he asked for his spell book, Fenris moved to the shelf to retrieve it but always returned to his post. It was honestly quite silly that Danarius had him standing guard in his own study. But he was in no position to argue so just remained silent, waiting for any order from his master.
All was quiet until Lucian barged into the room. "Uncle, I have found a wonderful prize for you." The nephew of his master was almost as foul as he was. His pale skin was blotchy around his face. There were dark circles surrounding his eyes, giving him a positively evil stare. His hair was dark brown, nearly black and always slicked back on his head resting just above the neck of his robes. Yes, this was a horrid creature to walk the earth. Fenris wanted him dead nearly as much as his master. And although Danarius always insisted that he punish Fenris directly for any misdeeds, he had witnessed Lucian's tactics on some of the other slaves in the household. Unlike the magister, Lucian didn't use magic with his cruelty, at least not typically. He would much rather beat his subjects to near death, only to heal them and start over again. His obvious interest in the female slaves was sickening to Fenris. Always requesting that one come to his room after dinner to give help him with his bath, or massage his aching muscles. But he knew better. The looks on the women's faces were clear. The Magister always turned a blind eye and pretended like nothing was happening.
"Really," Danarius raised an eyebrow at him. "I trust you used my money wisely this time. The last slave you brought home was somewhat lacking."
Fenris's felt his gut twinge a little at his words. He was talking about the elf Hamlin. The poor thing barely lasted a month at the Magister's estate before some silly mishap demanded his execution. His body had lain on display in the slave quarters for weeks as a reminder to what happens to those daft enough to be disrespectful.
"Oh, yes Uncle." He was practically oozing with excitement. "She is quite the little spit fire."
"She?" Danarius questioned. "I thought I told you that I was seeing an extra bodyguard. With all the building hostility towards my power I hardly think some frail elven girl will suffice," his voice was low and Fenris could tell he was growing irritated with his nephew's insolence.
"This is no frail girl," he grinned widely. "She is a Fereldan refugee. And a human." Lucian leaned against Danarius's desk as he said the last words knowing that it would spark his interest.
"Who did you buy this woman from?"
"Magister Clayden, sir. He assured me that she is quite deadly at close range with her daggers and even more so with her bow from a distance."
"Well, Clayden has never given me cause to doubt him before. Perhaps this is not such a bad bargain after all." Danarius sat back in his chair and glanced towards Fenris, who had been completely excluded from the conversation until this moment. "Fenris, she will reside in your quarters until a suitable room can be made for her."
He felt a hint of annoyance flare in him. His small closet of personal space was lacking as it was. But he quickly pushed the feeling away not wanting his Master to see his disdain for the suggestion. "As you wish, Master," he breathed out.
"Bring her in Lucian. I am eager to see this prize of yours," Danarius waved his hand at his nephew.
Lucian made his way to the door, opening it and calling to the human refugee on the other side. "You may enter."
Fenris felt himself grow curious to know about this new slave as well. After all, they would be working closely together and he hoped she wouldn't be too much of a nuisance. He didn't have the patience to hold someone's hand as they grew accustomed to Danarius's tactics. When he heard her footsteps approach his body stiffened, nervous at the encounter.
She rounded the corner slowly taking her time to walk to the center of the room. Fenris found himself analyzing every feature on the woman. She had deep black hair that was pulled back into a low ponytail. Her bangs slightly shielded one of her vivid green eyes. Her high cheekbones and slender face made her stunning. The breeches she wore were tight, much like his own, hugging her lower form securely. No doubt, for agility. She wore boots that extended to about mid-way up her calf, secure around her feet and legs. She used a leather belt that wound itself around her midsection several times to hold her pants up and shirt in place. A black sleeveless top exposed her long neck and shoulders. Her tan skin glistened under the light of the study, and Fenris couldn't help but find the woman incredibly attractive, for a human. Then a rush of pity fell over him. If he had noticed her beauty that was no doubt the reason Lucian had been so eager to buy her.
She didn't have the demeanor of a slave either. Her head was held high and she looked Danarius straight in the eyes, not intimidated by his presence. Danarius began to circle her, examining her form and build. He raised one of her arms to further inspect it. "Strong," he hissed. Fenris saw her roll her eyes and was glad that her new master had not seen her attitude. "Tell me," Danarius moved to stand in front of her. "How did you come to be a slave?"
She hesitated for a moment. "Your master asked you a question," Lucian spat.
"Now Lucian, give her a minute to gather herself," Danarius's wicked words tried to sound soothing.
She huffed lowly. "My family sought refuge in the Tevinter Imperium from the Blight that threatens to cover Fereldan. My sister is an apostate and we were to meet a friend of my father's to grant us safe passage." She said the words as if they had been spoken many times before and it was an annoyance to have to repeat them again.
"But something did not go as planned I take it?" Danarius questioned as he moved to sit back at his desk.
"No," was the short answer she replied with. Fenris knew her stubbornness would only be her undoing.
"Well," the magister opened his hand for her to continue.
She cleared her throat. "Well, my brother was killed by the darkspawn horde before we could escape. My father passed on several years ago. This friend of his, Magister Clayden, decided that he could not house all of my family. He agreed to keep my sister due to her magical abilities, but either my mother or I would have to be sold. After we discussed it, we decided that it would be best if I was sold into slavery and let my mother stay at Bethany's side. Magister Clayden agreed believing he could fetch a better price for me given my skill."
"Speaking of your skill," Danarius leaned forward. "I am told you are proficient with daggers and bows. Have I been informed correctly?"
"Yes," her postured straightened as she looked ahead at the wall, clearly not addressing him directly. But this wasn't timidness, she was doing that on purpose as if he wasn't worthy of her responses. "I am more than proficient with daggers, and quite deadly with a bow. It is my understanding that you are in need of a bodyguard."
"That is correct," Danarius stood from his chair. "And you will do well to learn not to address me so bluntly. It is yes 'master' and no 'master.' Have I made myself clear?" his voice rose slightly.
Fenris noticed her fist clinch before she responded. "Yes..." offering just a hint of hesitation, "master."
"Oh, there's some fight in this one uncle," Lucian stalked towards her. Standing behind her, his hand ran up her neck fisting a large clump of her hair and pulling her head to the side, exposing her neck. For the first time since she entered the room the woman looked directly at Fenris. Their eyes locked as Lucian brought his mouth to her neck and breathed heavily up and down the length of it. "It will be fun to break this one," he hissed onto her skin.
With her eyes still on his he saw her breathe in deeply before speaking. "I'm sorry…Lucian is it? But you're not really my type." Fenris couldn't help but smirk as she said it, but knew that she would be thoroughly reprimanded for her smart tongue.
Lucian gripped her hair more fiercely and jerked her head. "You will learn your place slave!" he grabbed one of her hands and pulled it behind her back.
"Now Lucian. We would like to leave her unspoiled for the time being," Danarius interjected. The woman should be grateful that her new master was so possessive over his personal slaves or Lucian would have certainly beaten her into submission right there.
"Of course, Uncle," his nephew recognized his tone and released his hold on her.
"Fenris, I would like you to show…" he gestured towards her form. "What was your name girl?"
"Hawke," she replied dryly.
"Such a curious name, but it will do for now. Fenris, please show Hawke around the estate. I will call on you later for her to show some of her skill. You are dismissed," he waved his hand for them to leave.
The Tour
The third floor housed most of the bedrooms and Danarius's grand study. He spoke quickly showing her the guest's rooms and the chambers of esteemed members of the household. At the end of the hallway rested Danarius's room.
"This is your master's chambers," he spoke to her, highly annoyed. He hated the this task as he had done it countless times before with various other potential bodyguards and knew that given a few weeks' time he may be having to do it all over again. That would depend solely on Hawke however. He didn't open the door but merely motioned to it. "You probably need to remember this room most of all. He will no doubt be calling you here at all hours of the day, and he doesn't take tardiness well," he scowled.
"I'm under the impression he most likely doesn't take many things well," Hawke sighed.
"Indeed," he growled.
A door just to the side of his chamber was Fenris 'quarters' if you could call them that. "This is where you will be staying for the time being." He opened the door to reveal the small rectangle room that was barely big enough to fit a small cot in. There was no window and the only light he was allowed was a small candle sitting on the floor next to his bed.
She grimaced at the small space. "They don't really give you much room do they?" Her arms crossed over her chest.
"Yes, especially since you will be sharing this space with me," he made sure she knew he was unpleased by her invasion of his closet.
"The both of us are meant to stay in there," she raised an eyebrow at him.
"Yes," he proceeded down the hall and onto the second floor. "Danarius likes to have his bodyguards close," he spoke over his shoulder. "He allows me this room due to the fact that he entertains company quite often and they are somewhat put off by my presence."
"And…what sort of company does he entertain?" She spoke the words nervously and Fenris could tell she was obviously concerned that she might fall into that group.
"You needn't worry, he will not lower himself to lay with someone who is not a mage." He heard her breathe a sigh of relief over his shoulder. "But he is not the one you should be concerned with."
Once they reached the second floor he pointed to all the rooms of note. "There at the end is his ball room. It nearly takes up the whole floor. There's a bathroom down this hall, which you are not permitted to use. On the other end is a small sitting room," he spoke quickly not giving her time to question anything before making his way down to the first floor.
"So who should I be concerned with?" She asked as they reached the bottom of the steps.
He turned to look at her. She was leaning down to rub a scuff mark off her boot. In the act her cleavage had become painfully more visible and accentuated. Fenris couldn't help but notice one of her breast slightly jerking at the motion. She sensed his eyes on her and peered up at him through her hair catching him ogling her. A smile passed her lips as she rose to stand up. "From the looks of it, maybe it should be you," she grinned propping her hands on her hips.
He growled and turned to walk away, embarrassed at being caught. "Trust me, I am the last person you should be concerned with. Lucian however, is another matter."
"I gathered that much," her pace sped to catch up with him. When they reached the grand dining room, he stopped. He felt her soft hands grip his elbow and he resisted the urge to flinch not wanting her to see it as a weakness. Her body moved to stand in front of him. And for the first time since he'd been in her company he saw of hint of despair in her eyes at her predicament. "Should I," she swallowed loudly and looked away from him. "Should I prepare myself, then?" He couldn't help but feel pity for her. It would only be a matter of time before Danarius's nephew would act. Luckily for her, Danarius had given him strict orders to leave her 'unspoiled.' Which Fenris had experience in knowing exactly what his master meant with the word.
"For the time being I think you can relax, but I suggest using a little discretion with your words towards him. I have never known Lucian to withhold for long."
"I suppose I should watch my tongue," she spoke solemnly and released his arm.
She didn't speak as he showed her through the first floor, even when they made their way to the back courtyard she was silent. Only her eyes allowed for any hint at what she was thinking. As he showed her the other slave quarters they glistened and her body slightly jerked when she walked through the door. Fenris had long ago buried any emotion to the conditions here. Most of them walked around looking practically starved, the air smelled of piss and rotten food. As many beds as possible were squeezed into the small space. The wail of babies and cries of children echoed through the walls. "We should go," he tried to pull her out, but she slid out of his embrace and knelt beside one of the elven toddlers. The boy couldn't have been more than four or five. His face was covered in smudges of dirt, with tear stains running down his cheeks. He sighed heavily, it was a mistake to bring her here.
"What's wrong?" she asked tenderly as she began wiping the tears from his face, trying to clean away the dirt.
"I'm so hungry," the boy managed through his tears.
Hawke turned back to look at Fenris through pained eyes. Tears threatened to fall at any moment. He shook his head and looked away from her, not comfortable with seeing the torment that lingered on her face.
"What's your name?" She forced a smile at the child and brushed his hair out of his face.
"Credos," he sniffled and wiped the back of his hand across his eye.
"Such a strong name," she tried to sound encouraging. Her eyes cut to Fenris then she leaned in closer to the boy whispering something into his ear that he couldn't hear. Whatever she said seem to make the boy's eyes light up and he scurried away. Hawke continued to smile at him until she was sure that he wouldn't turn back to her, then let her true emotions show. A look of hopelessness covered her features and she quickly got up and jetted out of the room.
When they reached the courtyard he noticed she had stopped walking with him. He turned around to see her standing perfectly still staring down at the dirt. He sighed with annoyance and walked back to see what the problem was. As he approached she spoke with tears still in her eyes, "How are they able to treat them like that?"
He had seen this cruelty countless times before, but she was new to Tevinter and most likely had no former knowledge of the way slaves were treated. "Because they are Magisters," he spat out the words with disgust. "They may do as they please."
"Someone should do something," she gritted out, still not looking him in the eyes.
"Do you think anyone cares about the life of a slave?" he said with more anger than intended.
She sighed heavily and brought her face back up, still visibly shaken but a hard shield formed over her features. "I understand," she whispered.
"Good." He relaxed his posture and motioned to the sparring ring. "Danarius will be meeting us here soon. You will not want to keep him waiting."
Sparring
"Ah our little Hawke is ready to show us all her talents is she?" Danarius's evil grin spread across his face as he rubbed his hands together menacingly. He snapped his fingers and one of the other slaves ran to retrieve a bundle of weapons. Danarius reached down and pulled out a shortbow along with a few arrows. "So just how good are you at firing one of these," he grinned while his fingers gently plucked the tight string.
Fenris watched as Hawke straightened her stance and brought her arms to rest at her side. With a proud voice she spoke, "I never miss."
"Really," Danarius raised an eyebrow towards her. "Never?"
She tilted her head and gave a sly smile, "Never."
"Well, in that case give us a demonstration." The Magister motioned for one of the slaves to bring a target over. He marked it with an 'X' no bigger than a sovereign and ordered for him to carry it to the other side of the courtyard.
There's no way she can make that, Fenris thought. It was over fifty yards away. The mark wasn't visible, even to his elven eyes. Even if she missed, Fenris knew that Danarius wouldn't punish her yet. He was still toying with her, trying to make her think he was a good master, then he would rip the rug out from under her when she least expected it. He felt a snarl building on his face and quickly moved his gaze to the potential bodyguard for distraction.
Danarius handed her the bow. She moved to stand in position. Her eyes stared at the target for a moment while her fingers idly ran across the fletching. She wet her lips in concentration then bit them back. Fenris couldn't help but be enamored with her. The air of confidence she exuded, the strong will that was obvious even in her predicament. They were admirable. Her fingers lightly fingered the bow, testing it, feeling its weaknesses and weight. With a slow and steady hand she brought it to the side of her face, focusing intently as she put the arrow in place. Fenris shuffled his feet in anticipation, eager to see how good she was as well. Her eyes darted to his and a smirk passed her lips as she released the arrow, never taking her gaze off his.
That confident are we? He felt the faint tug of a smile on his face and fought to suppress it.
Two slaves raced with the target back to their master, revealing that she had in fact hit the dead center of it. "Well, quite talented, indeed," Danarius hissed. "But I wonder, how good are you when someone's life is on the line. You are after all intended to be an extra bodyguard." Something in his voice had Fenris on edge. He knew he was plotting something.
Without looking at her new master Hawke confidently spoke, "Like I said…I never miss."
"We'll see about that," Danarius spoke through an evil grin. "Josef," he called to one of the younger slaves. "See if the cook can spare an apple and bring it to me."
"Yes master," Josef bowed as he ran to the direction of the kitchen. Fenris could see the wheels in Hawke's head moving. She turned away from her new master and began rolling her shoulder staring across the courtyard, pondering something. Fenris saw her eye the boy as he returned. Nervously, she started gnawing on her bottom lip.
"Good," Danarius hissed as the boy handed him the apple. "Now run to the other end of the courtyard and place it on your head."
The boy began to protest, but knew the repercussions would be dire and hesitantly made his way to the other end. Hawke's eyes followed him. He couldn't have been older the fourteen, and Fenris could tell she was now wishing she wouldn't have been so confident.
"Now, Hawke." Danarius folded his arms at his chest. "Shoot the apple."
She exhaled sharply and moved her tongue through her mouth nervously. Her arm raised the bow slightly then hesitated. Josef was at the other end quivering uncontrollably, tears threatening to stream down his face.
"Well…" the Magister opened his arms in question. "Are you not as skilled as you say?"
Fenris was standing close enough to hear her mumble a curse under her breath as she raised the bow to position. This time her concentration was hard, a gleam of sweat was building on her brow. "Stop squirming," she whispered as she tried to settle herself. Her eyes closed and she inhaled deeply; when they opened she released the arrow in one swift movement. All eyes were on the missile as it flew through the air. Hawke fell to her knees and on impulse thanked the Maker when it pierced through the apple leaving Josef unharmed. The slave squealed and fell to his knees as well, crying from the terror.
"It seems for now, your archery skills are satisfactory," the master said dryly. "But what of your skill with a dagger?"
"I will admit that I am not nearly as efficient. But I believe you will still be pleased," she rose from the ground.
"I am sometimes accosted by multiple assailants. I will have you fight a few of my guards to see how you do."
Hawke nodded in agreement and grasped the wooden daggers Danarius supplied. Fenris moved with his master to the side of the sparring ring to watch. Her body language still captivated him. She was so strong and sure with her movements, not to mention a sultry swagger to her walk that he didn't mind admiring. In his gut he felt a building attraction to this woman that he barely knew, but quickly buried it, knowing that a feeling such as that never served a slave well.
She pranced to the center of the ring, surrounded by Danarius guards. With her wooden daggers drawn she moved around in a circle eyeing all the men with a mischievous grin. Fenris felt his excitement grow with the anticipation of seeing her spar. It was one against five, and these were no frail boys. These were some of the Magister's best guardsmen. He hoped she would knock a few of their teeth in for good measure. Too many times had he been tormented and ridiculed by these men, it would be fitting that a woman would put them in their place.
"You may begin," Danarius ordered.
The guards began to close in around Hawke. With one blade drawn to the front she held the other low at her back. One of the guards made a swipe at her. She quickly dodged his advance and knocked his blade away, causing him to lose his footing. Her dagger connected with his side and then with one swift kick to his chest he fell backwards to the ground heaving. Danarius gave him a wicked glance and motioned for him to leave the ring. As the others advanced in on her the fight became a little more fast paced. A guard swung at her head, she slid under his blade and jabbed him in the ribs, with the momentum she swung her body behind his and jabbed the guard next to him in the back, leaping to her feet as she did so. "Pathetic," Danarius whispered, and motioned for them to leave as well. Fenris couldn't help but smile as he watched her take out the guards one by one.
With only two opponents left, they began approaching her from opposite sides, hoping to throw her quick movements off balance. Her body was low to the ground as she countered their footing. Fenris could tell she was contemplating her next move and the best way to finish the two off. She raised her head slightly in his direction and winked before she slid her foot through the ground, sending dirt into one of the guard's eyes. He moved to shake the dirt away, leaving her open to attack. With one strong kick to the side he fell, she lightly tapped her wooden dagger on his chest, then quickly rolled away, feeling the other guard's presence behind her. He swung and missed, hitting the dirt instead. She crouched low and taunted him to attack again. He lunged at her with his blade and she rolled swiftly away again, letting the dirt to feel the full force of his swing. She chuckled and rose back to her feet. The guard growled and charged towards her with his blade ready. With all his might he swung down on her. She was able to block his advance by crossing her daggers at his point of impact, but now as their weapons connected the stronger guard was winning. He pushed with all his might, bringing her down to a knee. Hawke was grinding her teeth, but not giving in. Using one leg as leverage, she pushed back against him with all her strength. He flew back slightly, but the struggle left her feeling a little fatigued and she wasn't quick enough to attack him. They began dancing circles around each other, but Hawke was smart. She didn't advance on her stronger competitor but rather let him make the moves, giving her a chance to deflect and leave him weakened. Getting tired with the game, the last guard made a swift swing to her chest. Hawke tried to evade his move, but lost her footing on a large rock that had mysteriously showed up in the ring, regaining her stance just as their weapons connected but dropping one of hers in the process. Fenris knew she wouldn't be able to hold him long with the meager dagger and felt himself grow nervous. She brought her free hand to help her other grip the weapon, and pushed back on him. Now with her handicap the guard was able to push her further than before. In his arrogance he puckered his lips at her and made a kissing sound. Fenris saw the disgust rise on her face and in one quick move she elbowed him in the chin, knocking him back. Then she swiftly swept his legs out from under him. Before the guard even knew what was happening, Hawke very nonchalantly walked up and hit him square in the balls with her dagger, causing him to groan and curl over in pain. She snickered lightly to herself and moved to stand in front of Danarius.
"Bravo," Danarius clapped his hands. "That was quite the little show of skill." Hawke did not acknowledge his compliment, further proving her ignorance as a slave. "But let's see how you do against our little wolf," he motioned for Fenris to move and without hesitancy he obliged.
As he approached Hawke in the ring she smiled at him. "Did you see what I just did to those men? Are you not scared?"
"I am no mere guard," he smirked back.
"Well, I'll try to go easy on you just the same," she laughed.
Fenris tried not to let her smile have an effect on him, but he couldn't help but find it hypnotizing. So he quickly turned away and drew his sword.
Danarius motioned with his hand for them to begin and Fenris immediately ignited his lyrium scars and charged towards her. He only had time to see a fraction of the panic on her face before she quickly back flipped away from him, landing perfectly on the balls of her feet. He charged again only to have her perform the same move. Realizing this would soon become a game of cat and mouse if he continued he relaxed a little bit and let his markings subside.
"So what exactly do those things do?" Hawke called to him from across the ring, her words obviously a little shaken.
His lips curled slightly and he felt proud that he could inspire such fear on her previously guarded and proud appearance, but didn't answer her.
"Fine, keep your secret," she yelled. "But I'm not coming near you whenever those bluish white things light up," she waved her hand at his form.
"You don't have a choice," he snarled as his markings flared and he charged towards her again. She attempted to roll away, but he anticipated this move and blocked her with quick downward swing of his sword. She halted just in time, and swept her leg out to knock him off his feet. She nearly succeeded but he quickly caught his footing before she had a chance to move on him.
In an instant she stood and lunged towards him. He blocked her charge effortlessly with his sword. But soon became entranced by her graceful and swift movements. Her body whirled and danced around him, he was only barely able to anticipate the destination of her daggers to knock them off. He heard her chuckle through her moves and decided it was time to put an end to her cockiness.
When she swirled behind him, he moved quickly lighting his markings before connecting with her body and pushing his fist through her abdomen. Not enough to kill her, but enough to get her attention.
She gasped loudly and looked down to her stomach. "What the fuck!" she yelled. And then he quickly removed his hand and stepped back with a smug grin. The look on her face was priceless. Jaw open, and eyes wide as she rubbed her stomach; looking to it then back to him.
"Well, done my little wolf," Danarius again clapped over their shoulder. "It seems you are not quite skilled enough to best him. With time perhaps you will learn," he chuckled. "But I doubt that. He has quite the talent, does he not?"
"Indeed," she responded still looking flabbergasted.
"Lucian please see to it that our new slave is properly bathed before dinner," Danarius flashed an evil grin before walking back to the main house.
"With pleasure," his nephew smiled as he approached Hawke.
"I am perfectly capable of bathing myself," she spat at him before turning away.
Lucian grabbed her arm and without warning smacked her hard against the face. "I will tell you what you are capable of slave," he hissed.
Fenris winced at the sound of his hand connecting against her beautiful features. But Hawke did not show pain. She licked the blood from her lips and turned back to eye her abuser.
Lucian pulled her closer so his face was directly in hers. "You will learn you place," he spoke lowly and then jerked her free. He began walking in the direction of stables and called over his shoulder. "Fenris, come. I will need your assistance."
His jaw twitched and began walking with him, nudging Hawke to follow as he passed. "I am sorry for what I am about to have to do to you," he spoke solemnly.
"And what is that?" her voice rose in fear.
"You will see. Prepare yourself," his words were void of emotion.
He heard her sigh loudly but she raced to catch up with him. Under her breath her voice quivered, "Maker have mercy on me."
"Strip," Lucian ordered.
Hawke huffed but began removing her clothing. Fenris tried not to eye her as she did so, but couldn't help sneaking a few peeks in now and then. Lucian no doubt was probably salivating.
Her shirt was removed first to reveal a hardened flat stomach. Next she removed her belt, then her boots, and then quickly pulled down her pants. When she stepped out of them she jutted her hip out and placed her hands at her waist. Giving off an air of attitude to no doubt hide her embarrassment.
"Now, turn…slowly." Lucian ordered again.
Hawke rolled her eyes but began moving her body around in a circle, giving Fenris an annoyed glance as she did so. When her back was to them Lucian ordered her to stop so he could take the time to admire the new slave's body. And although Fenris tried not to, he couldn't help but stare just a little bit before planting his eyes firmly on a knot on the wooden walls.
Her black undergarments accentuated her dark skin. She had curves in all the right places and Fenris found himself thinking that she no doubt must have driven men wild back in Fereldan. But now she was in Tevinter and a slave. Having a body like that would not be an asset in her predicament but a curse.
"Are you done drooling over my ass?" Hawke asked over her shoulder.
Will you just shut up! Fenris thought. She was only making this worse by pestering the mage. And sooner or later she would most certainly pay for it.
"Not quite," Lucian spoke lowly and moved towards her. Fenris and Hawke both tensed in unison. He ran his sick fingers up and down her spine and then around her waist as he stepped in front of her. Hawke made no noise as he gripped her shoulder and spun her around pressing his body against her back. She kept her face devoid of feeling as he raked his hand up her thigh and across her stomach, squeezing roughly as he reached her chest.
"If I'm lucky perhaps my Uncle will be gracious enough to loan you to me before I return home," he snarled into her neck as he ran his hand up her back and into her hair. Fenris felt his fist clinch and a sudden need to protect this woman that he barely knew. He was unsure how much more of this groping he could take before he was forced to stop it.
Hawke did not react to his invasion, but looked rather lifeless as he continued to feel her body. That is until he began running his hand down her abdomen at a slow speed, quite clear as to his destination. Her breathing became deeper and her fist balled. Fenris could see her face redden and water building behind her angry eyes.
"I believe Danarius wanted her 'unspoiled' Lucian," Fenris spoke before he could even think, the lyrium in his skin threatening at any moment to ignite. He quickly realized his outburst would be punished and sought to rectify it. "I do not wish to upset my Master…sir," he stuttered through the words and instantly felt ashamed, knowing that he must look so weak to her.
"Perhaps you are right," Lucian surprisingly agreed. "It will be better to take you once he has given you to me." He released her roughly and walked back to his previous position. "Fenris, I will need you to hold the hose. You," he motioned to Hawke. "Off."
Fenris went to retrieve the monstrous hose they kept for cleaning the stables. A tank underneath them housed the water at a heavy pressure. When he returned Hawke stood before them completely nude, but showing no embarrassment. Which she really didn't have a reason to be, he found her curves surprisingly refreshing compared to the normal elven woman he saw. He cleared his throat and quickly looked away from her body. He couldn't believe he was so blatantly admiring this woman. He was no better than Lucian.
The mage moved to turn the handle to start the water and Fenris aimed the hose at her giving her a face that screamed, 'I'm sorry.' She nodded to him that she understood and moved her hands to cover her more sensitive areas in preparation.
The water shot out and Fenris planted his feet firmly to hold the hose in place. "SHIT!" She screamed while Lucian laughed menacingly as he watched the show.
"Make sure you get all of her," he managed through his laugh.
Fenris reluctantly moved the hose up and down her body as he was told. Hawke threw her hands out in front of her help block some of the force. "That's cold!" she yelled as the water reached her torso.
She turned her body around and Fenris quickly made a sweep of her backside before moving the hose off of her. Lucian turned it off, still laughing.
"Now, slave you may walk across the courtyard to retrieve your new clothing from the maid," the mage held his stomach aching from his overly exerted laughter.
"You mean, you want me to walk all the way across the courtyard completely naked, in front of the Maker and everybody. Surely you can't be serious," she spoke as she moved to cover her nudeness.
"Oh, you will find that I am always completely serious," Lucian finally suppressed his laughter. "Now move," he ordered.
She growled under her breath and began walking past them. "Fenris can you show me where this blighted maid is, so I can end this embarrassment."
Without looking to Lucian for permission he followed her and moved to walk in front, so she could hide most of her body with his. But that did not stop the lewd comments and yells from the guard. Hawke cursed and swore the entire walk, her voice on the verge of tears.
When they reached the maid's quarters, she thanked him quietly as she moved past him. "This is turning out to be one hell of a day," she sighed as she entered the room.
No doubt it was. He had gained a very peculiar, but most definitely attractive counterpart that would prove to be very interesting in the coming months. If she lasted. Fenris sighed as he went to seek out his master. If she lasted.
Dinner
As the nightly meal was prepared, Fenris followed his Master from his quarters down to the grand dining room. Danarius had a small household. Only himself, his nephew (who was not always there), his sister Claudia (timid and keeping mostly to herself), and on the occasion his apprentice was allowed to join. Hadriana was here tonight. Which meant his evening would be ending in pain. She went out of her way to belittle Fenris. He began preparing himself for the humiliation and torture. After a few glasses of wine she loved using his markings to cause him agony, while she and the others laughed. Well, all except for Claudia. She had not been gifted with magic and always kept her head down during the show, not speaking. And even on a few occasions excused herself from the room.
Danarius was the last one to arrive to dinner as always, making a grand entrance. Everyone rose from their chairs and bowed as he took his seat. Fenris took his place behind his chair.
"So, Lucian tells me you may have found a new bodyguard," Hadriana immediately asked as they started eating. "Fereldan. And a woman. That seems like an odd choice."
"I think it will turn out quite nicely," Danarius answered.
"Once we break that spirit of hers," Lucian interjected.
"Yes," the Magister added. "Today she proved that she is quite skilled. Nearly championed over our little wolf," he looked back to Fenris. "Isn't that right?"
Although he knew he was in complete control during the whole fight he decided to agree. "Yes, Master. She is rather talented," he answered keeping his face forward.
"Hmm…" Hadriana purred. "May I meet her?"
"Why that is a fine idea." Danarius turned to a servant waiting at the edge of the room. "Bring us the new slave."
Fenris took a deep breath. He always hated this part. Hadriana and Lucian intended to toy with her, push her limits, while Danarius watched from the sidelines analyzing her weaknesses.
After a few moments Hawke followed the servant into the room wearing her new uniform. The magister had picked out rather impractical attire for her. She was intended to be his bodyguard, and should be wearing protective armor. But instead she wore a pair of high boots that rested at her knees, a leather skirt that frayed at the front and back. Underneath was a pair of skin tight shorts that surely would do nothing to protect her. Her upper body was covered by a low cut jerkin that exposed her midriff. Her arms were barely concealed at all, except for the fingerless leather gloves that hardly reached her elbows.
"Now, Lucian. This is hardly armor befitting a bodyguard," Danarius turned to his nephew. "Tomorrow we will have to ensure that she is properly outfitted."
That would explain a lot, Fenris thought. As she walked towards them he realized the leather straps of her bottom only further accentuated the sway of her hips, exposing her thighs. The tightness and revealing nature of her top pushed her breast high, making them look larger than Fenris knew for a fact they were. Was there no end to the pervasiveness of Lucian? She seemed to be thinking the same thing and threw him a wicked glance as she passed the table.
"Come girl," Hadriana called. "Let me look at you." Hawke walked to her chair and stood stoically in front of her, allowing the mage to examine her more closely. She raised one of her arms and began feeling her muscle. "Flex," she ordered. Hawke did as told and Hadriana cooed. "Oh, quite strong. And your legs?" Hawke squatted slightly, moving the leather straps out of the way to expose her thigh. Hadriana ran her hand up the leg, but Hawke did not flinch. "Strong indeed." Danarius raised his glass to her at his investment. "Am I correct that your father and sister are both mages?" the witch prodded.
"My sister is a mage, and my father was one. He is no longer alive." Hawke shifted on her feet then added a quick, "Ma'am," to the end of her sentence.
"Yet you do not possess the power yourself?" Hadriana raised her hand and summoned a ball of purple energy. "Your father must have been so disappointed."
"Perhaps," Hawke answered with a huff. "But my brother was not a mage either, nor my mother," she added.
Hadriana scoffed. "Pathetic. Marrying a Fereldan whore and diluting his magic blood. Makes me sick," she made a disgusted face as she took a drink from her wine.
"My mother was not a whore," she gritted through her teeth.
"What did you say?" Hadriana turned an evil eye to her, daring her to repeat the statement.
Hawke was not intimidated and looked her dead on. "I said my mother was no Fereldan whore."
Hadriana glanced at Danarius who gave her a nod. She quickly stood from her seat and pushed Hawke back with a wave of energy, sending her flying into the opposite wall. Fenris struggled to keep his feet planted. Hawke however made no pained noises as she raised herself from the ground and walked back towards the table. Hadriana pushed her again, sending her into the adjacent wall. She moaned lightly but lifted herself back up and gave her a defiant look.
"You will need to learn when to stay down, girl," Hadriana hissed as she threw all her mana into a spell that Fenris knew all too well. Hawke was encompassed by a deep purple aura before she fell to the ground and screamed in agony. Hadriana tightened her hold on her as she convulsed and jerked on the floor with cries of torment escaping through her lungs. Fenris tightened his jaw and tried to drone out the sounds of her pain.
Just when it was about to be too much Claudia called out, "You're going to kill her!"
"Enough, Hadriana," Danarius said rather nonchalantly.
"Of course Master," Hadriana relaxed her hold and sat back down, while everyone continued eating as if nothing had happened.
Hawke whined from the floor as her body recuperated from the ordeal. She took several large inhales and Fenris was sure she was about to begin crying.
"Will someone please shut that bitch up," Lucian yelled as he looked towards Fenris, clearly annoyed by her painful whimpers.
He moved to her side and crouched down to the floor, gently trying to help her up. When Hawke finally opened her eyes Fenris could see the tears beginning to form, but she fought to suppress them. Her face cringed in pain as he raised her to her feet. She stumbled a little and used his body for support but would not look him in the eye. "Do not give in to them," he whispered as she leaned against him. She then raised her eyes to look into his face. "Stay strong," he gently squeezed her arm and began leading her back to the table. After a few steps she released her grasps on him and began limping back on her own, standing behind Danarius, mimicking Fenris's posture. As he approached she glanced to him and winked quickly before turning her head forward.
The rest of the meal was not nearly as eventful. The table discussed the political going on of the city, new Magister's rising to power, and other topics that always seemed to bore Fenris. When the dessert was about to be served he could not help but feel Hadriana's eyes tearing into his flesh. A quick glance informed him that Lucian was doing the same to Hawke.
"Sooo, Lucian what doyouthink of Denarriuss's newpet," the apprentice's words slurred slightly causing a knot to build in his stomach. He knew what was coming.
"Oh, this one is going to be fun," he smiled wickedly over the rim of his glass before downing its contents. Fenris heard Hawke shift her feet before the sound of broken glass echoed off the floor. A slave girl moved from across the room to clean up the mess Hadriana had made. But she quickly held up her hand to stop her.
"Fenris, clean this up," she snapped her fingers at him.
He clinched his fist and began walking towards her mentally preparing himself for whatever she had in store. As soon as he crouched down to the floor, she kicked him fiercely in the side, causing him to fall backwards. He caught himself with one of his hands and then she smiled wickedly. He began feeling the sting of her magic trail up the lyrium in his feet, making its way up his body. All his mind could think of was the pain, the burning covering his body. He was unaware of the screams and yells he produced throughout her torment, but felt every muscle in his body fight against her, to no avail. On their own accord his arms and legs began thrashing on the floor like a fish out of water. The only sound he could hear was the cruel cackles of the mages in the room. Through the slit of his eyes he saw a flash of leather dart pass him and then the pain was gone.
As his eyes opened he witnessed a shocked Hadriana pushed to the floor, while Danarius and Lucian quickly rose from their seats. Hawke began backing away from them, positioning herself to stand between himself and the wrath of the mages. Her hands rose in surrender and she looked back to him quickly before falling to her knees.
"I…am…sorry," she stuttered out. "I am unfamiliar with Tevinter customs. The reaction came without thinking. Forgive me, Master. It will not happen again."
"I am certain it will not," Danarius hissed. Hawke did not resist as he grabbed her by the arm and led her out of the room. Hadriana gave one more quick ignition of his lyrium before raising from the ground and stomping after them. Lucian soon followed.
Fenris lay on the floor looking to the ceiling, tormenting himself with thoughts of what they would do to her. He gave out a frustrated yell and slammed his fist against the rug.
"Are you alright?" a quiet voice asked from the table. Claudia rose from her chair and walked towards him. Fenris quickly sat up and rested his elbows on his knees.
"I am fine," he answered as she approached.
"Perhaps you should go and get some rest," she suggested as she walked out of the room in the direction of her quarters.
He gathered his strength and pulled himself up from the floor. As he began walking up the stairs he passed momentarily at the door to the basement. A loud crack of a whip sounded, followed by the pained yells of a woman. His face contorted as his markings flared. With another snap of the whip came an even more agonizing yell. Fenris grabbed the door handle. He thought hard about what he would do if he went to save her. It would be useless. The mages would use his markings against him before any action could be taken.
With a frustrated sigh he released the handle and made his way to his closet to wait for her return.
Predicaments
Fenris lay in his pitch black room for what seemed like hours. Waiting. Although his eyelids begged for them to be closed and his muscles ached from the torture he endured earlier he fought to stay awake. He felt powerless, useless, hopeless. Something in her eyes, her demeanor, her voice told him that if there was a Maker he had sent her to him, that she would be a pivotal person in his life. It felt foolish to be so certain of this, especially since he had barely known her a day. But he couldn't shake the feeling in his gut. She was special.
Loud footsteps coming down the hall brought him out of his thoughts. Something was pushed into his door then he heard his Master retreat to his room. He sat perfectly still for a moment trying to listen. The shuffle of a body could be heard in the hallway. His door slowly creaked open, illuminating the space at his feet before a shadowy figure walked through the crack. The door was shut quietly and he heard her sigh heavily.
"Hawke," he whispered rolling over to light his candle. In the small room the little bit of light encompassed it with an orange glow.
She was bracing herself against the door. As her feet moved towards him she stumbled into the wall. He quickly rose to catch her and gently guided her body to the bed. She winced in pain as her back connected with the mattress. "Perhaps it would be better if you lay on your stomach," he suggested. She nodded to him and he assisted in turning her body over. Her head moved to look at him from the pillow. Other than a bruise building on her cheek and a busted lip her face looked relatively unharmed.
"How bad is it?" her voice cracked. He raised the candle to examine her back. Numerous slashes and welts remained, but he could tell most were already healed with magic and likely wouldn't scar.
"You are fortunate," he whispered as he rubbed one of the larger marks with his fingertips.
"I don't feel fortunate."
"You are lucky to be alive." Fenris felt his stomach drop at the thought of her inevitable death, and he quickly removed his hand from her back and propped his body against the bed. When you are a slave it serves no purpose to care about the lives of others. It can only be used as a weakness. He quickly pulled a wall up over his emotions. Through gritted teeth he spoke, "Never try to save me again."
She gave a confused laugh. "I'm sorry?"
"I am more than capable of handling myself. I do not need you to intervene on my behalf," he said with as much disdain as he could muster.
"You expect me to just sit back and watch while someone is tortured?" She rose slightly on the bed, groaning as her action brought her more pain.
Fenris turned to look at her. "I expect you to realize that there is nothing you can do about it." His voice grew louder with each word. "If they want to hurt me they will. If they want to hurt you they will. You cannot protect me." Her brow furrowed and her eyes gleamed with the beginnings of tears. He sighed and turned away from her, rubbing his forehead with his hand. "And I cannot protect you," he said softly.
"We are powerless, then," her words were weak with the realization.
"Yes."
"What have I gotten myself into," he heard her voice muffled through the pillow.
"Why did you choose this?" he asked genuinely curious. He had been a slave all his life and had no memory of any other way. That someone would willingly put themselves into this predicament seemed absurd.
"Because," she winced as she sat up on the bed and threw her legs over the side moving to sit next to him on the floor. "I could not bear the thought of my mother having to endure this." She turned to look at him. "I would gladly take the place of another if it meant they would not have to suffer." Her face winced as she inched closer to him and brought a hand to rest on his leg. "I know you think it foolish that I intervened tonight, but I would gladly do it again, even knowing the punishment I would face."
The touch of her hand on his leg caused heat to build in him. He could not remember the last time another person touched him with such care. His hand began moving to cover hers, but before it connected he realized he was letting his guard down. Instead of caressing her hand, he flung it off him and stood to the ground. "You are a fool."
"Why? Because I will not sit by while innocents suffer?" Her tone told him that she was hurt by his outburst.
"No, because you actions are going to get you killed!" he leaned down towards her. "No one is going to save you Hawke. You are a slave. Caring for the well-being of others will do nothing but kill you sooner. The faster you realize that, the better off you'll be."
"And is that what you've done?" she choked out, tears welling in her eyes. "Are we meant to die as slaves, then? Watching those around us beaten and tortured? Watching children starve? Are we to sit back while the Magisters rape and destroy everything sacred in the world?" Her tears threatened to fall at any moment and Fenris could not look her in the eye. "No, I may not have been born with the 'gift' of magic, but I will not let it rule over me. I refuse to abandon hope."
"You are in Tevinter, Hawke. Hope abandoned this land long ago." He offered his hand to assist her in getting up. "You may have the bed tonight. Tomorrow you will need your strength." Through her pained face she nodded in understanding and allowed him to help her to her feet. With great care he guided her to the bed and pulled the blanket over her body. When she was settled in he blew out the candle and propped himself against the wall. The room was silent except for her labored breathing. Fenris began feeling guilty for his harsh choice in words. It was easy to forget that she was new to this lifestyle. He tried to remember as far back as he could, how he felt when he discovered he was a slave. Had he not had the same debates with himself? Told himself the same lies? Even though he had shut those feelings out long ago, a part of him still believed in her words. That there was still hope, that perhaps one day he could be free, along with all the other slaves. That he would have his vengeance on Danarius and the other Magisters. He listened for the sound of her breathing. It was still not deep or steady enough for her to be asleep. "Hawke," he called out in the darkness.
She shifted on the bed. "Yes, Fenris."
"I do not mean to sound cruel or cause you pain with my words. I am grateful that you saved me tonight. But because of your actions you were hurt in my place. I too do not wish to see innocents suffer." He cleared his throat to keep from showing too much emotion. "Though I cannot protect you, I do not wish to see you punished on my behalf. Promise me that you will not do that again. I do not know if next time…I will have the strength to…" he stopped himself feeling his throat tighten and heat build behind his eyes at the images of her body being beaten.
"I understand," she spoke softly. "I promise. But will you promise me something?"
He nodded his head, but then felt foolish knowing that she couldn't see him. "Wh-What would you like me to promise?"
"To never put that blue fist through me again," she chuckled. "My stomach still feels all weird."
His lip curled up and he couldn't help but laugh himself. "Deal."
:) Thank you for reading. Next chapter should be up soon.