Chapter 50 Suspected
The first half of this chapter was fun to write.
Also the view-point switches from Fenris to Aveline
It was late into the night when Varric turned in from standing watch. Having let the others sleep after the harsh battle that had been with the varterral. Merrill exclaiming every detail to Varric prior before they slept. He wandered over and tucked himself in, under the light cover after waking Fenris. Fenris arose and gave a yawn along with a stretch. He went and sat down beside the campfire. It was starting to die so the elf decided to feed the fire a few logs. He gripped his great sword and leaned against it. Giving off another yawn. It was very late as the moon shone high in the sky. Fenris suddenly became aware of a low pained gasping groan. The voice which gave it off was none other than Hawke's. Fenris turned to Hawke's tent and stared. He heard the large man move about in the tent. Fenris jumped back slightly as Hawke bursted forth from the tent gasping for breath. Doubling over and coughing harshly. He was clutching at his chest digging sharpen nails into the drake-skin leather. His eye wide beyond compared. He began grasping at his throat as he surged forth from his tent. Unoriented as he lumbered off towards the trees. Fenris stood up and abandoned his sword as he walked over to Hawke. Fenris slowed down as he came up behind the larger man. "Hawke... Are you alright?" He asked. His voice filled with concern. Fenris gave Hawke worried look. Noticing how Hawke held his hand over his chest. Having seen Hawke clutching at his chest the entire walk back from the cave where the varterral was fought. Fenris could recall when he saw Hawke spit up blood from being slammed into the rocks by that creature. Fenris wondered if Hawke was still being effected by that. After all. Hawke appeared paler than usual in the moon's light. Even the man's hair was dull and lacking the usual sheen. The larger man was breathing heavily. Hawke turned slightly to look at Fenris. The was blood coming from the man's mouth. Fenris swallowed slightly. "Hawke..." Fenris took a step closer to the larger man. Fenris felt his chest tighten out of slight fear, he wasn't just concerned. He was afraid. The man he actually cared for why Hawke was in pain. Without truly thinking. He reach out and set his hand upon the dark man's face. Hawke's eye widened before narrowing. Not entirely sure what the elf was doing either. "You are hurt still, Hawke..." Fenris said. Hawke's rough breathing prevented him from giving off a huff. "No shit, Bastard Elf." Hawke said slowly. As he spoke more blood fell forth from his mouth. Fenris pulled back from him before reaching down and searching through his pouches. "Will a potion help you?" The elf asked. To which Hawke replied painfully, "No..." Getting Fenris to look up at him. Before he hurriedly dug through a different ouch and pulled forth a large vial and held it forward. Slightly shaken but determined. Hawke eyed the vial before swallowing. "Is that..." Fenris nodded.
"It is.." Fenris said taking a breath.
"How did you acquire this?" Hawke questioned as he turned to lean his back against the tree.
"That you need not know."
"You do know when blood rots, correct?"
"Yes... this is fairly recent... "
Hawke clenched his teeth as a pain shot through him.
"Hawke please..."
"Is it yours?"
Fenris looked down not really meeting his gaze.
"It is... During the fight with the varterral... Look. I saw what happened to you. I know what you can do to other people... When you..."
"I can endure. My body will heal itself... With time..." Hawke said breathing easier now. But a slight pain still lingering.
"Like that time you used it to heal me... You were bleeding heavily..."
"Yes. It won't last for much longer. Don't fret..." Giving Fenris an observant look. A small smile playing on his face.
"R-right..." Fenris looked away with a slight blush by the look Hawke was giving him.
He started to back away until the vial he held was taken from him. He looked up to see Hawke down it before looking back to him.
"To be honest it tastes much better from the source..." Hawke says licking at his teeth. As he leaned forward his eye even with Fenris's line of sight.
Fenris swallowed before backing up. His eyes darting over to the camp which wasn't that far away. His vision brought back to the man in front of him. Hawke wiped away the blood from his face. Though the smile evident still remained. Fenris could have easy turned away from the larger man but he didn't want to. He was a bit lost in the larger man's gaze. Up until the moment he felt Hawke's hand around his throat. He suppressed a gasp and allowed himself to be brought along with the larger man. Being brought much further from camp, Fenris was released. "We can continue conversing here, as to not wake the others." Hawke said looking through the trees to the sky. Fenris crossed his arms with a huff. "That isn't the reason you dragged me further from camp, and you know it." The elf growled. Hawke laughed lightly before turning to the elf. "True. You were always smarter than the others. Far smarter in fact." Hawke said with a flirty tone. Fenris blushed and looked off to no where in particular. "Let us not forget that you came to me out of worry. Even knowing what pain does to me." Hawke purred sickly. Fenris flushed harder. The shadows and darkness prevented Hawke from seeing this. Fenris knew very well what Hawke's kinks were. The thought of taking advantage of such perversions never came to him until now. Though now that Hawke mentioned it. It was hard for Fenris not to think of it. The capability to make the larger man lose it, was a tempting idea. A bit too tempting. Sadly, Fenris was not exactly versed in teasing others in any manner. Leaving Fenris to stand quite awkwardly beside Hawke. Fenris felt that the air about him and Hawke could easily turn sexual. Considering Hawke has a blood fetish among other things. It was quite possible. It left the branded elf torn. He wanted so badly to reach out and touch Hawke. Wanting it to be returned in the same fashion. Yet, he couldn't bring himself to do such. Though. It didn't say how Hawke would conduct himself, however. The man's thought process wasn't what one would consider normal. Fenris stood in silence until it became unbearable for him. "Just do it..." He said. Hawke looked over to him and raised his brow.
"Really now? You will not fight back against me?"
"No..."
"Such a pity." Hawke sighed before sitting down.
"Excuse me? I am offering myself willingly. And you just turn away?" Fenris asked a bit irked by what Hawke was doing.
"Giving it up so easily takes out all the fun." Hawke gave a mock pout. Which in truth was down right disturbing.
"Should I rather fight back against you? Knowing full well that you will get what you want?" Fenris was starting to get increasingly mad.
"Well of course. One of these days you will be able to fight back against me. Though you seem to limit yourself as being weaker than I am. And just accepting your fate. It is so depressing really."
"Wait... You actually believe that I can be stronger than you?" His anger fading.
"Of course I do. I know there is someone out there stronger than I am. I don't wish for that person to be a coward. Now. If someone like you were to kill me. I would probably know peace." Hawke said giving a sigh. Fenris sat down beside him then.
"But I wouldn't want to kill you. I have no reason to. You are..." He trailed off. Not sure how to put it. His feelings for this man was still strong.
"Still a valuable pawn in trying to rid your life of Danarius. Do not think I haven't figured out why you stayed. After what happened with us... You could have left for good. You said you cared for me. You were afraid that he would kill me. But that doesn't get rid of the fact that I can still kill that magister just like you have planned such a long time ago. After all. We think a like more than you wish to believe." Hawke said as he stood up.
Fenris was shocked by what Hawke said. Considering what he said was true. Fenris never planned on falling for this man. The reason he had indebted himself to Hawke to begin with was to gain a forcible ally that would help him kill his former master. But the feelings he developed for Hawke couldn't convince him to run from Kirkwall. He couldn't run from Hawke. And the fact that Hawke picked up on it. It always proved he was far smarter than he let on. Fenris sighed as he stood and followed Hawke. Pushing his feelings and worries of the future aside. He looked up. "Has you wounds healed up finally?" He asked. Hawke gave a light hum. "For the most part. It was internal. So if the pressure continues... I will need to let some blood spill out. Shit. I even know for sure that I am going to have a massive bruise upon my chest." Hawke said almost laughing. Fenris frowned. "Don't take your health so lightly Hawke. Despite what you believe. There are people who care for your well-being." Fenris scolded. "Whatever. Just get to bed. It is still night. And you need the rest more so than I." He said running a hand through his hair. "Right..." Was all Fenris said as he walked over to the tent he shared with Varric. Laying down and sighing. Still worried about Hawke.
The next morning Fenris awoke from his sleep. Being roused by Varric. "Come on elf. We got to move." Varric said as he strapped Bianca to his back. Fenris reluctantly got up.
The morning went by pretty quickly as they traveled. Merrill was overly quiet. Seemed something was bothering her. She was bit depressed by the looks of it. She walked closely to Hawke. The large man seemed to regard her warily. The whole monster ordeal still weighing heavily upon her. Not that Hawke really gave a flying fuck. From what he could understand is that she got what she went to get. That she should get over herself. But. That wasn't how he was taught to treat women. So he majorly remained silent and ignored the small petite woman. Not far behind Fenris walked adjacent from Hawke and Merrill. Further behind was the two rogues were walking side by side. Isabela leaned over to Varric.
"So. You sniffed out anything between big boy and lanky?" Isabela questioned.
"Pfft. Is that what you're calling Mister Psycho Kill-A-Lot and Broody?" Varric said returning a question.
"Mister Psycho Kill-A-Lot is too long. Big Boy sounds much better. Besides. I like lanky~"
"Yeah well. All I know is that Hawke takes offense if you touch Fenris. Why? Shit if I know."
"I think there is something going on between them. I just know it!"
"Hmm. I agree. Something has to be going on. Sure they were friendly to each other before but now. They are a bit too friendly. And Hawke is anything but friendly."
"I know. Also did you notice that little red thing wrapped around Fenris's wrist?"
"Yeah I did. It looks a bit too familiar..."
"That looks like the same bandana that was wrapped around Hawke's old battle-axe."
"The edges are flayed and scorched just like it. Coincidence?"
"No... Can't be. You know, Varric. Part of me thinks it has something to do back when Fenris confronted Hadriana."
"Yeah. You told me about that. Didn't you say Fenris handed Hawke that bitch's heart?"
"Yep. Sure did."
"Hm. I might have to look into that. Also Fenris was acting really odd a few days back before while we were coming up this way."
"I am telling you there is something there!"
"Right!"
The two rogues looked at each other and nodded before hurrying to catch up with Hawke and the others.
It was nearing nightfall as they saw the distant lights coming from the lanterns of Kirkwall's outer gates. Instead of camping for the night. They hurried their way to get through the gates before they closed. A guard greeting them. "Hawke. You and your friends returning from a camping trip?" The guard asked. Hawke looked over at the guard in the low light of the torch. "Donnic, was it?" Hawke asked. "Why yes. You best hurry yourself and your friends home before the night watch. Though I am sure the... Captain~ Wouldn't have any complaints." He said shaking his head as if he was trying to chase away some stray thought that had him a bit flustered. Hawke mostly ignored him afterward and went off to drop Merrill off. Who was reluctant to leave Hawke's side and even wished for Hawke to stay. He simply told her "No." Merrill nodded in surprised understanding. Almost like she wished to be as strong as Hawke. She even smiled brightly as she said goodbye.
The next stop was by the Hanged Man to drop off both rogues. Hawke gave off a yawn as he walked past the tavern along with Fenris. Both the rogues looked after them. In all honesty both tried to get the upper hand on both warriors. In attempts to spy on them, yet both rogues fail every time when they get close enough to them. Both warriors call the rogues out. Both Varric and Isabela just now finally figured out how far behind they had to be for the warriors to not hear them. Sadly. It was the same for them. They couldn't hear Fenris nor Hawke, either. It would have been so much simpler had the warriors kept journals. But sadly they don't. Both rogues watch as Fenris and Hawke make their way to Hightown.
Upon entering Hightown. Hawke and Fenris were alone for the most part beside the night guards walking about. The two warriors continued on till they reached the Hawke estate. "Well. I suppose I will see you some time tomorrow?" Fenris asked suppressing a yawn. "I just need to let my mother know I am back. I am going to spend the night at your place." Hawke said walking up to the door. Fenris tilted his head for a moment before standing straighter. "Really? I... Suppose... You can spend the night... Though it is going to be cold until the fire is started." Fenris said looking off to the frost set upon the statues. Finally becoming aware of how cold the stones beneath his feet were. Slightly cursing as a slight pain raised through him. He had ignored the cold for the most part. As least the path they took on Sundermount had lush grass to stave off some of the cold. Fenris stood a bit awkwardly outside the Hawke estate. Hawke having walked in without talking. He shifted back and forth in place. Until Hawke finally came out. "Here Mother said this might fit you. She bought it herself. Even bought me a pair..." He said shoving a pair of lightly furred boots his way. "Kirkwall isn't as cold and wet as Fereldan. At least we aren't ankle-deep in slush." He said walking past him. Quietly staring at the armored boots lined with fur in his hands. Hawke didn't seem sure they would work for him. Fenris hurried past him. The two finally make it to Fenris's mansion and walk in. The stone is just as hard and cold as it was outside thanks to the large gaping holes in the roof. His main room was not going to heat up as quickly as he liked. But he much rather his main room than the one he made just for the snowy parts of winter a few steps away. They had settled rather quickly into bed. Fenris not being able to allow Hawke to sleep upon the floor for a second time. Though Hawke didn't let him sleep on the floor either. Thus they just shared the elf's bed. Fenris could feel his heart race a bit. Considering what happened the last time they had shared a bed. Though it was quickly pushed aside as Hawke was the first to fall asleep. Fenris sighed as he to began to fall asleep as well.
As the morning light filtered through the various holes in the roof. Fenris awakes to notice Hawke isn't beside him. He is confused for a moment before getting worried. His mind wandering back to the idea that Hawke may still be hurt. He got up out of bed quickly. Looking around his room slightly panicked. He calmed quickly as he heard the larger man's voice. "Don't fret Fenris. I didn't leave." The larger man said as he walked back into the room. Seems the larger man was chewing on something. Which by now was fairly evident given the man's darker tendencies. Fenris shivered with a bit of disgust until realising it was from something in his kitchen. Still the blood was rather evident, that what Hawke was currently eating was raw. "How do you not get sick?" The elf inquired as he walked over to his friend. Though in truth he felt very strongly for this particular friend. All things considered. Still grateful that Hawke was more than understanding once his rage was settled. Anyway, back on topic. Fenris looked up to Hawke before reaching out and jabbing the larger man in the chest. Hawke paused eating to glare at the elf. Swallowing before responding. "Fuck off elf. I told you I am fine." Hawke growled. Fenris just hummed before stepping back. "Just curious is all. Normally a bruise -visible or no- would result in pain upon applied sharp and -or- soft pressure." Fenris practically explained. Hawke rolled his eye before he raised up another piece of meat up to his mouth. "Wait... That looks like part of the meat I had set aside to make a recipe I been studying!" The elf started to get upset. "Don't eat that!" He huffed before trying to swipe it from the large human. "Since when are you cook savvy?" Hawke shot back before raising the meat out of the elf's reach. "I do prefer to eat something that doesn't remind me of oppression, Hawke." The elf growled sharply. "Then you should eat more of my mother's cooking." Hawke offered before kneeing the elf in the chest. Fenris latched on to the man's leg and gasped. "Ow..." He could hear the large man laugh at him. Fenris growled before landing a hard shot the larger man's crotch. Hawke immediately shoved him to the ground before giving off a snarl. "You little fucker!" Hawke gave Fenris a heated glare. Fenris himself couldn't help but laugh. "That is pay back from all the hits you landed on me in the past." Fenris said as he shot the man an evil smile of his own. Hawke growled more before taking a step forward after setting the meat down. Fenris paled suddenly and tried to back away as Hawke suddenly jumped at him. Fenris tried to turn around in an attempt to crawl away but Hawke dragged him back. Hawke placed his hand firmly against the elf's chest. Glaring down at the smaller man before starting to laugh. Getting the elf to sigh in relief that he wasn't going to be assaulted. "You are a son of a bitch. And I enjoy that about you, you Branded Bastard." He said giving a smile. A genuine one at that.
For what seemed like a perfect moment was suddenly ruined as a knock came to the door. "Hawke? Fenris? I'm knocking this time. Leandra said you two would be over here..." A familiar voice called out. Hawke growled and let his head drop to the floor beside Fenris's. The metal spikes resounding off the stone floor. Fenris sputtered as the man's long hair fell in his face. The paused silence in the room made the guardswoman cough. Aveline called out from the behind the door. "I really hope I am not interrupting anything..." The embarrassment seeping into her voice. Hawke gave another growl before getting up from off of Fenris and pulling the elf up as well. Fenris dusting himself off before moving to pull on his armor near the bed. "What do you want Aveline?" Hawke asked opening the door.
"Good you two aren't necking. That's a relief. I must admit. I was shocked the last time." Aveline said as her blush faded. Though she seemed in a bit of a daze as if recalling something.
"Don't be like that whore..." Hawke spat.
"Maker's breath, I'm not! But I didn't come to talk about that. Maybe some other time though." She said slightly laughing. Fenris came over trying to see Aveline but ended up trying to shove Hawke out of the way.
"Move your ass Hawke." The elf growled. Hawke started to put his weight on the elf. "Venhedis! Your heavy..." Fenris backed off and gave a hiss. Aveline just laughed.
"Anyway. Emeric really wants to see you. Today. I stress. TODAY. So let's go to the Gallows right now. I want him to quite harassing me."
"Fine. Let's go silence the old man." Hawke said walking past her.
Aveline sighed as she watched the large man walk past her. Casting a glance at her elven friend. Who was wrapping something up. Aveline smiled as she walked over to Fenris.
"So did you ever get your frige?" She asked. Fenris looked at her and looked amused.
"In a sense yes. It really is strange though. It actually is just a box full of ice filled with woodchips. Makes me feel a bit like a noble really." He said.
"Good. It's a nice feeling to be sure. Come on now. Let's go make sure Hawke doesn't commit a murder on that old templar." She said. Fenris nodded and followed her.
As they left the elf's mansion they walked through Hightown. Aveline walked along side Fenris. Looking at the man for a while. She noticed he seemed a bit happier as of late but also somewhat shy when around Hawke. It was a bit alarming at first considering how rough and curt Fenris's demeanor was. But in comparison to her dark friend Hawke. It seemed a bit pale. Though there were also changes in Hawke as of late. Over the years Hawke has grown more friendly towards her and those who call themselves Hawke's friends. She was glad to see that. Even taking note that Hawke stopped his questionable alcoholic abuse. Though part of her was afraid he'd fall back into it. Things were going pretty well despite some horrible things happening to her friend's families. She still missed Bethany and still didn't give a rat's ass about Bartrand. But how Hawke and Varric handled that was their own business. Aveline stopped her mental musings as she felt a familiar stare being thrown her way. The way Fenris's jade forest eyes locked onto her was a bit... flustering. She admits that when she first met him. She was sure to openly stare. He was rather impressive for a man of his stature. Aveline even preferred Fenris being physically close to her over Hawke. She didn't dislike Hawke as much as she says she does. Though for a woman like her to be by those two. And actually connect with them on a common ground not just as warriors but as equal minds. It was much more refreshing than with Isabela or Merrill. Not that she had something against the small petite elf girl. It was just. Well... A woman just wants some eye candy that doesn't hide in the shadows and cower behind her. Varric was smart sure. But she doesn't fully trust him. And Anders. Well... He is just a straight up pansy. Though back to the fact that Fenris was looking at her. She just knew he was trying to come up with something to say. Then. There it was. "It feels good to be captain of the guard, yes?" Fenris said stepping a bit closer to her. She smiled slightly before looking at him. His eyes avoiding hers out of habit alone. Both cute and sad at the same time. "No. I will not change the patrols around your mansion again. There already been too many questions." She responded. Getting the elf to hum slightly as a look of mock shock and hurt crossed his handsome features. "You wound my pride with such accusations." He said with a slight mortification to his voice. As if he was rightly offended. She nearly laughed at this. "But you were going to ask." She said leaning in a bit towards him with a knowing smile. He looked at her before looking away with a soft smile. "Eventually." He said closing his eyes and shrugged. Giving up. Fenris really was sweet at time. It got her to laugh. "I'll look at the roster and see what I can do." She said. Getting to see him smile brighter than before. She actually enjoyed it when he smiled. Sometimes she wished Hawke smiled like that without having some twisted idea fueling it. She sighed knowing that she would probably never see Hawke actually smile out of happiness alone.
They continued on their way through to Lowtown. Not running into any of the others as they went. Which was a bit odd to Aveline, considered how nosy Varric and Isabela were. She knew exactly why Anders didn't go around with the main group much. Two reasons. Hawke and Fenris. They both hated Anders with a passion. Though it didn't stop Anders from trying to sway Hawke's mind. Though it never really works out for Anders. She, herself, didn't like him that much. She sure wasn't his friend to be honest. As they continued down through the lower part of the city they finally arrived at the docks. Noticing the involuntary way Fenris shuddered. She knew very well Fenris didn't like the docks. Mainly due to the smell of fish. They managed to get a boat heading for the Gallows. As they sat on the boat. Aveline began to recall a few messages she kept receiving in her office. Just remembering that she never exactly brought up the complaints to her friend. She looked over to Fenris and tried to ignore the need to lecture him again. Hawke was busy terrorizing a poor sod close by. She shook her head disagreeably. Before looking at Fenris and sighing. She just had to say something. "All right I am just going to say it. Fenris. You need to present yourself better." She said so suddenly that Fenris slightly jumped before looking at her. "What are you talking about?" He questioned. His voice dropping to a more serious tone than earlier. "You're squatting in Hightown. I sympathize with your claims, but your neighbors have influence." She said crossing her arms. After all she was trying to look out for her friend. "My claims?" He seemed to ask a bit confused. "To the estate. Rightfully stolen isn't exactly something I can forward to the viscount. Be more discreet about... well. Yourself..." She said almost sadly as she felt his gaze turn a bit harsh. He gave a slight sneer before responding. "I shall endeavor to exist with less offense." He said before looking away. Wonderful. Now Aveline felt bad. Until she heard Fenris give off a sigh. "I know you mean well Aveline. And I shouldn't be harsh with you. You are my friend. And you are just looking out for me. You have my thanks." He says looking down to his feet. Aveline remained silent before smiling then. "You should really wear shoes to. That would help." She heard him scoff. "What are you? The Captain of Fashion now?" He said leaning against the wall as he shifted in his seat. Aveline looked over to Hawke then. "Think I should call Hawke out on the fashion disaster he's wearing?" She asked uncrossing her arms. "I like what he's wearing..." Fenris admitted. Aveline thought for a moment as she saw the way Fenris was looking at Hawke before smiling deviously as she slide over to be seated next to her friend. She couldn't help but let her inner Isabela come out. "I bet you would much rather enjoy it if he wasn't wearing anything at all." She whispered low enough for just Fenris to hear. His reaction was priceless as his eyes widened and his face immediately turned red. Fenris gave off a weird laugh before coughing nervously almost as if he was starting to sweat. He jumped up suddenly and pointed. "Look. We're here! Let's go investigate that thing we were suppose to investigate." He spoke quickly as he hurried off. Aveline managed to hold in the laugh until it was painful. To see Fenris fail so miserably at being eloquent was the best thing she ever saw. Though now Hawke was giving her a queer look as if asking what in the void just happened.
As they got off, Aveline watched her elven friend stare mostly at the ground as they looked for Emeric. Finally finding him standing by a pillar all by his lonesome. Aveline watched as Hawke walked up to the templar. Hawke looked down at the man and growled lightly.
"Emeric... You've been bothering the captain..." He growled. The older man looked up a bit. Not bothered by Hawke's tone.
"I've spent the past few years continuing my investigation into the murders of Ninette, Mharen, and the other women. I believe I finally have a suspect, a man named Gascard DuPuis." Emeric said with all seriousness. Hawke snorted a bit. Possibly at the outrageous name.
"If you know he's guilty, do something about it."
"Ah, and here we get to the crux of the matter, I cannot lay a finger on DuPuis. When I became convinced of his guilt, I went to the city guard and demanded that they do something."
"My men raided that house. There was nothing and I've heard no end because of it. You were reprimanded, I hope." Aveline said sternly.
"Meredith forbade me from continuing my investigation. But she didn't say I couldn't seek outside help."
"So you were the only one investigating these murders?" Hawke questioned as his patience was starting to grow thin. Aveline didn't understand how Hawke could lose patience so easily while talking to other people outside the group.
"Yes, unfortunately. The templar order believes this is a matter for the city guard. And the city guard, well... they reject my evidence and dismissed the murders as isolated incidents. They don't care either."
"I've seen your evidence... scattered notes, conjecture, nothing remotely usable. You can't expect us to act on your hunches alone. Look what happened when we did." Aveline commented, still sore about the issue a few weeks prior.
"The guards who searched Gascard's place were incompetent. They didn't know what they were looking for."
"Fine, if you insist."
Hawke gave a groan before starting to turn away. Seems like he has lost what little patience he had left on this. He never did like his time being wasted, when it wasn't him wasting it.
"No one else believes you. Why the fuck should I?" He complained.
"Because you saw the sack of bones. You found Ninette's hand. You can't tell me there is nothing to this. What if one of the women who died was someone you loved?" Emeric nearly shouted. Hawke gave a pause. Aveline looked to her friend. Seemed something unreadable flashed in his eye. Emeric kept speaking. "If Gascard DuPuis is guilty he must be stopped before he kills again."
Aveline looked at her friend and saw he wasn't moving. Seemed Hawke was deep in thought. She gave a sigh. "Then we will investigate DuPuis, if only to put this to rest." She said looking back at her friend
"If I am wrong, then I'm wrong. As least I'll know for sure."
Hawke finally moves out of his strange stupor and lowly says, "There are no promises being made here, old man..."
"I'll take whatever help I can get. You will need to go to Gascard DuPius's estate after nightfall. Please figure out what DuPuis is hiding. If he's innocent, find evidence to prove me wrong. It's just that simple." He said crossing his arms.
Aveline saw as Hawke stalked away. Something just changed in him. He wasn't known to love women's company nor have any feelings of love towards them. Herself included in this. The only person Aveline could understand that Hawke felt any sort of love towards was his mother. Hawke seems compelled to under take things when they hit a nerve in him of what is right or wrong to him. Hawke pretty much considered his mother to be sacred. At least. That's how Aveline sees it. Hawke remained silent for the rest of the day as they went back to Hightown and waited for night fall. They waited in Hawke's estate. Hawke seemingly never leaving his mother's side. It bothered Leandra a bit to see her son just staring at her like that. It seemed like what Emeric said really did hit a nerve inside Hawke. As night fell over Kirkwall the three warriors made their way through Hightown. Aveline leading the way to DuPuis's mansion. Which was right next to Fenris's mansion. Fenris seemed to glower at this. "This is why I don't present myself better. I just hate my neighbors..." Fenris complained as he walked behind Hawke to the door. Aveline sighed.
Hawke pushed open the door which was surprisingly open. Even a bit shocking considering it was now nighttime. They walked into the large mansion and looked around. It was extravagantly decorated. The foyer was huge compared to Hawke's. The place looked to be able to fit at least several families inside of it and then some. As they walked forward Hawke paused as they came upon the desk where letters were put. Aveline turned to ask Hawke what was wrong when she felt a chill run down her back. She felt something appear out of thin air behind her and she lunged forward before whirling around pulling her sword and shield free. There were shades every where! She pushed her surprise aside as she began to fight. Like always. Fights with these such creatures were short-lived. Not even a challenge. She sighed. What was a bit of a challenge was the rage demon. Though it seemed a bit off as it tried desperately to avoid fighting Hawke. Odd. Even going as far as to ignore Hawke's taunts. As it finally fell to the ground and disappeared. Aveline let off a huff before making a comment. "I don't think the guards raiding the estate met that particular reception..." She looked over to Fenris who placed his hand upon a letter at the desk. Still hold his sword aloft. "Gas-card. T-thank you kindly for your last sh... shipment. It arrived in almost perfect con-dition. The requested payment is on its way. Please use the um...Artifact? With care. The creatures can be dif... Difficult to control, even for an exparn...Experienced mage... A pleasure doing business, Your friend..." Fenris said alone. Aveline smiled a bit. Fenris really has gotten much better at reading. He still messes up a bit. But he is getting through it. Though she then frowns as she thinks over what was just read. "Gascard went through a great deal of trouble for something." She said. Hawke looked over to Fenris. "You still have trouble pronouncing... Though you are doing a shit tone better than I ever could." Hawke said lowly. Getting Fenris to nod with a bit of a smile before he looked around. Settling his sword upon his shoulder. Aveline quietly though how in the world could he do that so nonchalantly. Same with Hawke. The axe seemed easier but the sword was a bit dangerous. The three warriors walked up one of the staircases. They entered into what appeared to be the dining area. More shades sprung from the floor. They were quickly dealt with. Aveline looked down at a letter on the table. "Messere DuPuis. This is in regard to your inquiry into missing mages. I would like to remind you that the duty of seeking out missing mages, if there were any to begin with, would fall to the templars of Starkhaven, not a minor nobleman from Kirkwall. I would also like to take this opportunity to remind you that the Circle of Magi, as a whole, does not welcome casual inquires about the mages in its care. Thank you, First Enchanter Paddick." Aveline looked a bit confused. "Why would Gascard be inquiring about escaped mages from Starkhaven?" She asked aloud, the two men merely shrugged as they continued further into the mansion. Though at one point Hawke seemed to muse aloud. "I feel like I should be fucking stealing right now..." Aveline sighed. "We're aren't stealing and I wish you would quit with the casual swearing with that word." She said a bit annoyed. "I ain't a thief but a murderer and also. Fuck you, GuardBitch." Hawke retorted. Aveline suppressed a laugh before low-key whispering, "Dangerfluffe." All she heard was the word "Bitch!" thrown at her. Then hearing Fenris angrily whisper a shout of, "Enough!" They continued on through the mansion. As they entered a room Hawke raise his head and started sniffing. "I smell blood. Hehe... It smells sweet..." He said wandering over to a large vial and several little ones. "Blood mage... Wonderful." Fenris spat. Hawke started to reach out for it but was snapped at by Aveline to leave it alone. He gave a weird bark back at her before leaving out of the room. Soon they entered another room. It lead to a grand stair case. As they went up they came upon a small table at the third floor. Aveline looked this letter over as well. "Messere DuPuis. Please accept my humble apologies for the recent events. The templar, Emeric, has been reprimanded for his wrongful accusations and for rousing suspicions within the city guard that led to the raid on your estate. I will see that he is restrained in -she forgot to write 'the'- future. Sincerely yours, Knight Commander Meredith." Aveline read aloud as she set the paper down. "Clever. He stopped Emeric from investigating by getting Meredith on his side." Fenris said lowly. The other two warriors nodded. As they continued through the house they found women's clothing. Fenris made a comment that they may have came from the women. Leaving out of that room and heading to the other. Aveline noticed that Hawke became a bit restless. Seems the dark man could hear something she couldn't. Even Fenris was reacting oddly as they approached the door.
As they walked into the room. They were presented to a suspicious scene. A man cornering a woman. The woman looked up hysterically. "Help me! He's gone mad!" The woman screamed with tears in her eyes. Hawke immediately let out a guttural growl. It ceased the woman's crying. The man turned in surprise and shock. "You're not... you're not him!" The man seemed to exclaim rather quietly. Hawke stalked his way over to the man and stopped right before him. The man, who can be called Gascard, froze in place.
"Shit I... know what this looks like, but I didn't hurt her!" He exclaimed.
"I am no fool. Do you take me for one, mage?" Hawke growled. Gascard paled.
"No. i didn't mean... I don't know why you are here, but there's a killer out there, and I think he is playing us both!" He said taking a step back.
Aveline noticed a slight change in Hawke then. Something wasn't right. Gascard continued to plead. "Just.. just let me explain!"
Hawke tilted his head to the side. His long hair following as it draped down. Aveline swore she could hear the man's teeth grinding.
"If... I hear anything... I don't like. You. Are dead." Hawke growled. Aveline moved closer to Hawke's left side where Fenris stood. The woman in the corner seemed stunned as she looked at Hawke and Gascard.
"Several years ago, my sister was murdered. The bastard's now in Kirkwall, killing again. The same way he killed my sister." Gascard started. Aveline noticed Hawke start to tick slightly. That wasn't good.
"It starts with a bouquet of white lilies. He sends them to each new victim. Alessa was going to be next. I took her so he'd have to come to me. I was finally going to face my sister's killer, but then you showed up..."
The woman named Alessa looked up. "He's lying! He hurt me!" She cried.
"I've explained this! I need your blood to track you down if he took you. It was for your protection!" Gascard said placing a hand on her.
"Let go of me!" She cried pulling away from him and running out the room.
"She'll go straight to the city guard. They'll ruin everything."
Hawke remained silent. Aveline was worried. She heard Fenris speak up.
"The Captain of the guard is right here." Fenris said pointing at her.
"Right. Why not tell me?" She responded looking at the mage.
"Why? I don't want him arrested. This isn't about justice. I need to be the one to bleed him dry." Gascard said angrily.
"Selfish little shit. How many have you risked by keeping this to yourself?" Aveline stated. Quite upset herself. Though she noticed something different about Hawke. He's starting to twitch again. Hawke gets particularly violent towards people who are lying through their teeth.
"You... Are a filthy liar. I hate... Being lied to..." He said taking a step closer.
Gascard frowned heavily as he took a step back. Suddenly firing a bolt of electricity at Hawke. Right in the large man's face getting him to snarl. "No. I've worked to hard! It can't end like this!" Gascard shouted. Hawke lashes out blindly at the man with his razor-sharp gauntlets. Managing to slice open the man's chest. The cut wasn't deep but it was enough for Gascard to panic and run. As he bolted from the room and sealed the door with a magical barrier, demons sprung from the floor. Aveline drew her weapon and shield as a shade attacked her. She saw Hawke shake his head furiously as he lashes out using his hands. Clawing one of the demons. He must have been temporarily blinded by the blast of magic to his face. Considering Hawke was nearly blind to begin with. Either way. Her along with her warrior brethren readied themselves for a fight. The demons were weak as usual. They weren't meant to last against them. They were merely a distraction. Aveline looked to Hawke to see blood coming from his only good eye. The eye itself was covered in a light red film. Hawke was literally seeing red. The man was simply outraged by what happened as he stormed over to the door and proceeded to kick it down. "Get back here fucker!" Hawke yelled. Fenris gave the man a worried look as he followed after Hawke. Aveline herself followed suit. The three warriors had to fight though more demons as they pursued Gascard. Going through door which was previously locked. Heading deeper into the Dupuis mansion. For a moment it was calm as they entered the study. Hawke seemed on the verge of just being plain out feral. Then again. The man loathed the idea of anyone getting in his face. Even being struck in the face made him go crazy. His face and his hair were things that no one should ever mess with. They continued into a library where they were more weak demons. The killing of these creatures didn't satisfy Hawke at all. Though he seemed to give a growl as he clutched at his chest. Odd Aveline didn't remember him getting struck in the chest. They continued on further coming to face a desire demon. The shades and randomly generated abominations were nothing compared to the power driven by that demoness of lust. She laughed at them as she shot magical bursts at them. Hawke ingnored the shades and abominations and went straight for the desire demon. The creature retreated from him and tried to evade. Hawke swung his axe to latch around her neck and pull her towards him before slamming his hand into the demoness' stomach. Effectively ripping out her insides. Aveline winced. Even if that thing was a demon. Seeing something like that be done was unnerving. Though Fenris seemed to dish out just as much hatred for these creatures. After the other demons were downed. Aveline took off in a sprint to follow where she saw Gascard flee. She could here her two friends follow after her. What she didn't know was the speed at which Hawke moved. She heard him coming just in time to dodge to the side. Hawke slid across the floor as he turned sharply to ram through a locked door. How did he know which door to take. Until she remembered that Hawke could smell Gascard's blood. He could very well have been blinded. But he was known for tracking a person down just by smell alone. Something more befitting of a savage dog.
Though there in the dining hall they were in mere minutes ago. Gascard stood with his staff held in front of him. Hawke stalked toward the man. The demons swarming him. He simply swung his axe about him. Slicing through them. Gascard backed up and began to pull power from the bleeding cut across his chest. It swirled in a storm around his body as if being carried by a small tornado around the mage. Gascard must have been planning to use a very draining spell to require that much blood. Aveline and Fenris both braced themselves for the attack. That was. Until they saw Gascard start to choke and clutch at his chest. The blood that swirled about him began to circle Hawke. Gascard began choking more as he coughed up blood. His left eye began to tint red as blood began to seep from it. Aveline couldn't believe what she was seeing. As this was happening to Gascard. Hawke stalked over to him. The mage's blood disappearing as it whirled about Hawke. Hawke latched on to the mage and held him in place. Hawke leaned his head back before bringing it forward at an angle. Aveline nearly screamed as she saw the sharpened spikes of Hawke's eye patch slice into Gascard's face, eyes, nose and mouth. His pained and choked gagging mixed with the sounds he was making were sickening. Hawke jerked his head back quickly. Blood spraying from where the metal ripped out from the mage's face. Hawke let him collapse to the floor. Hawke then took a very deep breath and seemed to sigh in relief. Aveline was speechless. "Hawke... You're able to breathe normally again..." Fenris asked. Aveline shook her head and looked confused. Fenris looked at her before answering. "We fought a varterral when Hawke went to help Merrill. That creature crushed Hawke's rib cage I assume. He was having some internal bleeding..." Fenris said a bit grave as he looked worried for Hawke. Aveline remained quiet for a moment before looking down and walking out of the room.
As long as Hawke was okay now. Then there isn't anything to worry about. She was just trying to rid the image of what Hawke did from her head. She heard the two warriors follow her out of the mansion. "We should go tell Emeric that Gascard is dead..." She said. The hurried their way to the docks. Hawke busied himself with cleaning the blood off of himself as they made their way there. Aveline could have sworn Hawke had licked himself a few times. She shuddered. She was glad that she wasn't a reaver like Hawke. Not that she knew exactly what that was. It had begun to be evening as they made it onto the boat. Having been stuck fighting at the DuPuis estate since late last night. The adrenaline keeping them awake. As the boat docked at the Gallows. Fenris gave a yawn. Aveline was just getting over what Hawke done. They walked through the large courtyard like area and looked for Emeric. At one point. Hawke glared darkly at a familiar templar with a white beard. Aveline had to get Hawke's attention back on what they were doing. That's when a young recruit looked at them oddly before approaching. "Aren't you Hawke? Emeric left not long ago. He said you arranged to meet tonight." Hawke gave her a withering look. "There is no such arrangement." He said. She didn't seem to mind his tone. Though she did look rightly confused. "But you sent him a message. I still have it with me." She said showing Hawke the letter. Hawke growled. "I can't fucking read nor write. So who wrote it?" He said curtly. The recruit looked shocked. "Strange. Well, I don't know. Emeric's been acting strangely for months. It's probably a misunderstanding. Someone else might have sent this and he probably got confused." She said walking away. "That isn't good." Fenris said. They left and got back on the boat. After arriving at the docks. They looked everywhere. There were so many alleys in Kirkwall. Till they heard a scream as they walked through an unknown dark alley back lot. They quickly made their way into the uninhabited neighborhood to find that a demon had slain Emeric. Hawke looked somewhat amused. "Looks like the Blooming Rose lost a customer." He said with a sick morbid humor. There wasn't just a single demon here. The was a desire demon as well as several shades. A battle ensues that lasts longer than usual due to both Aveline and Fenris losing steam from being up for nearly two days straight. Hawke wasn't faring any better. But he was on a blood high. Which was the only edge the three had. After dealing with the demons. The same templar recruit came up to them. She must have followed them. She had her weapons draw. Seems she heard the fighting but was a little too late. She looked down at Emeric's corpse. "Some mage sent those things here to kill him... Why would anyone...Oh, Maker. The murders. Emeric was right. He was getting too close. He suspected a man named Gascard DuPuis. Did he do this?" She said. Fenris gave a tired yawn. "He's dead already..." The recruit looked scared. "Then who sent the creatures? Whoever did this is a dangerous apostate that Meredith will want found. I will see to it personally." She said. Aveline spoke up then. "My guardsmen will find Alessa, the woman who was with Gascard. She might still be in danger." Aveline said. The recruit nodded. "Thank you for your help in this matter. If you learn anything more, please come to me." She said before hurrying off. Aveline sighed. "We might as well go home. There is nothing we can do now." Aveline said. Hawke nodded a bit. "I'm going home. I need to see how Mother is doing..." Hawke said before walking off. Fenris followed after him. I am going to do the same. Just hope your men find Alessa..." Fenris said as he left as well. Aveline sighed and walked a different route to the barracks. She had a lot of work to do now.
A/N I enjoyed writing this. Also I am going to involve Aveline much more for this act.
And in those. We will see things her way. So mostly her thoughts.
I kinda wanted to put some info where Aveline shown some attraction to both Hawke and Fenris.
Mainly due to their respect of her. Sort of like a crush thing. Because she finds it easy to talk with them than Donnic.
