Hey guys thanks for waiting,
Anyway I fixed a problem from the previous chapter (Old Friends part 1) the little quote from the Tales of Varric
I forget to add it when I added that chapter but it's there now
But I digress... Enjoy
Afternoon, Outside Kirkwall
Sundermount
Along the rough, rocky, and sandy terrain that was Sundermount the Hawke siblings, Aveline, Fenris, Varric, and Kane were moving past the shortcut Aveline was leading them through and ready to confront the Ambushers.
"So tell me again why we're walking directly into an ambush?" Varric said as he walked beside Fenris and behind the Hawke siblings and Aveline; "because if we didn't then someone less skilled would" Aveline called from the front alongside the Hawke siblings and Kane.
Garrett glanced back at Varric saying "come on Varric think of Tale you could tell after this... the dashing Dwarf whom single-handedly saved the Caravans from smugglers."
Varric smirked saying "not bad Hawke, not bad... think I'll go with that," Aveline glanced at Varric and Garrett saying "'single-handedly'" "That's how he's gonna tell the story at the Hanged Man anyway... it's better if you just leave him with his Tales trust me" Garrett replied as Bethany grinned at the thought of all the tales Varric most have told and how many people believed them to be true.
"I'd rather not have any tales told of me either way" Aveline said... why did you have to say that Garrett thought as Aveline finished talking and Varric smirked saying "and now I have tell a tale of miss Aveline Vallen... the renegade tough as nails Ferelden Guard who goes beyond her patrols looking for thugs to beat up."
"You just said had to say you didn't want him telling tales about you, I've been trying to stop him telling tales of me for a while now" Garrett said laughing as they walked.
Aveline looked back at Varric saying "I sincerely hope you're joking Varric," Bethany giggled saying "trust us he isn't joking."
Aveline scowled and continued without speaking. "Kane seems happy to be outside and roaming around again" Garrett said watching Kane taking point wagging his tail and positively beaming as he smiled for any surprises ahead of them.
"I told you he was being coped up in Gamlen's house... see he loves running around here, we should bring him with us on are travels more often" Bethany said as she walked beside her brother.
"Every hero needs his trusty hound" Varric called from behind them, sighing Garrett said "I just had to give you ideas didn't I." "Hey wait a minute Varric, you never tell any tales of Fenris why is that?" Bethany asked.
Fenris, whom hadn't spoken for the entire walk, suddenly spoke up saying "I don't question it... I just accept it." "Please, who wants to hear about a brooding Elf who always has that look of 'I was a Slave and I hate you all' and by far Hawke has the best tales" Varric said as Fenris raised an eyebrow at him.
"Stop talking" Garrett and Aveline called as they noticed Kane stop and sniff the floor.
"I think Kane's got something" Bethany said as the group watched. Kane looked back at group and barked softly then used his nose to point east, "that match your information Aveline" Garrett asked as the group stood there looking towards Kane was pointing; "more or less" Aveline said then beckoned for them to head where Kane was pointing.
After nearly twenty minutes of walking they could see another group of people wearing basic leather armor and carrying weapons, "I take it that's them" Garrett asked Aveline as their group stood watching the other group.
"Yes, without our shortcut the path that group is blocking is the only way into Kirkwall without wondering the Wilds here or taking to another City and going around" Aveline said calmly as she studied the group from afar and began to walk towards them.
As the group approached, the Ambushers stayed where they stood; two of them have pulled out Bow and Arrows while the other two held Battleaxes, Kane began to growl lowly.
Varric pulled out his trust crossbow Bianca, Bethany held her Staff at the ready, Fenris gripped his fighting Greatsword with both hands, while Garrett and Aveline unsheathed their Longswords and Shields.
The group walked towards the Ambushers, whom were clearly willing to wait where they were for, as they walked Aveline said "this isn't all of them they've got back up some where." Nodding Garrett held his Shield up with his Longsword held across his chest, the two Archers drew their bows and took aim, "Bethany get Fenris" Garrett called as he shielded her and Aveline shielded Varric leaving Fenris unshielded while Kane was quick and fast enough to not get hit.
The Ambushers wielding Battleaxes began moving towards them as two arrows flew from the Archers, they slammed into Garrett and Aveline's Shields, Varric began loading a special bolt into his Crossbow as Bethany tired to take aim with her Staff.
More arrows flew from the Archers as the group moved to meet the ambushers, Aveline blocked another arrow as Varric finished loading his special bolt. An arrow flew past Garrett's Shield and almost hit Fenris but a second before it made impact a glowing light blue field engulfed Fenris causing the arrow to bounce off leaving Fenris unharmed, Arcane Shield.
The two ambushers wielding Battleaxes stopped in their tracks as did the Archers at the sight of Bethany's Magic but Garrett and the group continued their walk.
Varric took the free moment to fire his special bolt at the two Archers in the distance, Varric's bolt soared through the air until hitting the ground in between the two Archers, the bolt burst upon impact sending shrapnel into both Archers.
Now free of the Archers for the moment Garrett, Aveline, and Fenris rushed forward to meet the Ambushers wielding Battleaxes, the two ambushers got over their shock of Bethany's Magic and rushed to met their attackers.
Aveline blocked a slash from one of the Ambushers with her Shield then pushed the man back causing him to stumble as Garrett reached him and slashed open his throat with his Longsword. Fenris attacked the other man wielding the Battleaxes, the Arcane Shield still protecting him, Fenris easily overpowered the man with a slash to the chest.
Bethany noticed the Archers getting back up and sent a Fireball their way finishing them off. "Archers up top, six on the left and five on the right" Varric called loading yet another special bolt into his Crossbow.
Sure enough Archers had appeared from two small Ridges from above them; Garrett and Aveline used their Shields to block more arrows but had to fall back due to the Archers having the high ground, Fenris was about to charge up to the Archers but Garrett stopped him.
"Fenris no! Varric, Bethany bring them down," knowing what her brother wanted to do Bethany gathered a lot of her Magic and called fourth a Firestorm on the two Ridges while Varric fired his special bolt.
As Bethany's Firestorm blazed and burned at and around the Archers, Varric's special bolt burst in mid air showering the Archers with dozens of smaller arrows. The combined efforts of Varric's Hail of Arrows and Bethany's Firestorm caused the Archers to come running down from the high ground, most didn't make it down and those that did were wounded.
Another reason Garrett had wanted the Archers to come running down to their level was that Ambushers had set up traps similar to the ones he himself had put back in Lothering all those months ago.
The Archers in their panic had forgotten about them and in their haste to escape the Arrows and the Fire they ran into their own traps, total only four made it down alive but wounded from their own traps. Garrett, Aveline, and Fenris finished them off with ease as Kane sniffed the area searching for more Ambushers as Varric scanned the area.
"That's all of them" Varric called to the group as Kane sat down next to Bethany, "Good work" Aveline said as she knelt down searching through the corpses for loot.
"So do we keep any coin they from these guys?" Varric asked as he noticed what Aveline was doing. Aveline glanced back at Varric saying "no. The coin is seized for the City Guard, you'll get paid when the jobs done by the City Guard for your assistance... all of you."
Varric nodded looking unimpressed at that but didn't say anything, Bethany dispelled the Arcane Shield off of Fenris and stood next to her brother as he pet Kane saying "good dog."
Garrett noticed Bethany give Fenris a quick annoyed look, turning to face his sister Garrett asked "what's wrong?" Bethany turned to face her brother saying "really, I know he hates magic but not even a thanks... for the shield I mean."
Garrett frowned saying "sorry about that but at least he's not silently glaring at you like he does with Anders." "I guess there's that, Fenris just ignores me usually but with Anders... there are moments when I think if it wasn't for you brother... Fenris would attack him" Bethany replied seriously.
Aveline, having finished looting and standing up, said "I notice these Bandits are pretty well equipped but dead is dead and the road is clear. Captain Jeven needs to know about this, back to the Barracks for your reward."
"Any idea how much we get paid" Varric asked as the group began leaving the area and starting the long walk back to Kirkwall, "Arys decides how much you each get but he's fair... if a little annoying" Aveline said as the group walked.
"At least we're helping people for a change, we don't do that often" Bethany said. "Yeah helping people and getting paid is a good deal" Garrett added as he scratched Kane's ears.
"You ever thought about being a Guard Garrett? You have the skill, I'm sure you could pass the tests fairly easy like I did and we could use some more Ferelden in the Guard" Aveline asked suddenly as they walked.
"Hmm I don't know, I have certain... duties that might... conflict with that, ask me again after the expedition and I might change my mind" Garrett said rubbing his chin thoughtfully as he glanced at Bethany. Aveline saw the glance Garrett had given his sister but said nothing.
"You know brother I could see you as a Guard, you have the same experience as Aveline, being the Ferelden Army. I know it's not the same as serving under King Cailan but Aveline seems to like it, right Aveline?" Bethany said having noticed her brother's glance and having wondered what Garrett would do if the expedition was a success, they had joked that Garrett would be a horrible Noble but it was true.
Aveline grinned a little looking back at the Hawke siblings saying "I like being a Guard, in someways it reminds me of the Army, being a part of something and helping people. I loved being a soldier in Cailan's Army but Cailan's gone and Ferelden has a new king...seems a bit cocksure from what I've heard; but he and the Hero of Ferelden saw the Blight to its end and united Ferelden again... can't fault an active hand."
Then adopting a more serious expressing and looking directly at Garrett, Aveline continued "that life ended for me when that bastard Loghain left Cailan to die at Ostagar... did you and Carver feel anything similar?"
"Ostagar... yeah I'd say that was the end for me, death at the scale has a certain... finality to it; I only joined the Army to protect Carver. I knew Carver was skilled but he always had a problem with authority, at first Carver wanted to keep fighting to avenge Cailan. It meant a lot for Carver to be in the King's Army but I convinced him that we needed to save our family... our time in the Army ended there" Garrett somberly.
"Did either of you met the Hero of Ferelden? I heard Tales saying that even visited Lothering before it's destruction?" Varric asked in a lighter mood and having the intended effect.
"Just because different people are the in same place at roughly the same time doesn't mean they met Varric" Fenris said, speaking for the first time since the ambush.
Varric turned to Fenris smirking as he spoke, "just imagine the spin I could put on that tale... the mighty Hawke crossing paths with the Hero of Ferelden, it would be... epic." Slightly grinning Garrett said "I haven't done anything that makes me mighty Varric, anyway the answer is no... I never met the Hero of Ferelden... though I did meet one Grey Warden."
"I never met the Hero of Ferelden either but I did see some of the Grey Wardens, even talked to a few in passing but nothing important sorry Varric" Aveline said having started to get use to Varric.
"But you said you did meet with one Grey Warden right Hawke" Varric asked, prying for material for a new Tale.
"Yeah I did meet one Warden... I never learned his name but he was kinda tall with a thick beard, Carver and I spared with him a bit, I put up a good fight but he beat me in the end" Garrett said.
Then as he remembered more about that day Garrett smiled saying "you should've seen Carver laughing that I lost but then Carver had the bright idea of sparring with that Warden himself and was promptly defeated... he was brooding for the entire day after that." Bethany giggled fondly remembering her twin as she said "that sounds just like Carver he would always brood if he lost at anything."
Varric spoke up saying "and you're sure it wasn't the Hero of Ferelden, maybe it was and you just didn't know it." Chuckling a little at Varric's reaching for a spin Garrett said "no I'm sure it wasn't the Hero of Ferelden, that Warden was human so unless he could change his race he wasn't him."
"Damn I had I good idea, though I could always tell my version of those events" Varric said humorously.
"I doubt anyone would believe that. There are countless people that have claimed to have met the Hero among his travels" Fenris said surprising the group with his input.
"Face it Varric everyone would know you were lying if you said any of us ever meet the Hero of Ferelden" Bethany said causing herself and her brother to smirk at for once having made sure Varric didn't tell a tale that people would believe.
Varric held his hands up in defeat sighing "alright Sunshine you got me there, I surrender." The group keep walking after that with a little small talk but mostly in silence from then on.
Still Garrett had to hand it to Varric, the Dwarf knew how to lighten the mood.
Later, after returning to Kirkwall
the Viscount's Keep
The group stood in the Barracks for the City Guard after stopping so that Bethany could leave her Staff at Gamlen's house and drop off Kane, only just having just entered and Aveline telling Arys that they were with her.
Turning around to face the group Aveline said "there's Captain Jeven's office, wait here while I explain about you being my deputies." Nodding the Hawke siblings waited with Varric and Fenris just outside the office, some other Guards and people notice them waiting there and gave them curious looks especially Fenris but left them alone regardless.
After a few minutes of waiting the group heard arguing from inside Captain Jeven's office, listening intently the group heard something about Fereldens but then the arguing turned into shouting.
There was no longer any need to try listening anymore, surely the whole Barracks could hear the shouting coming from Captain Jeven's office.
"I don't know how they do it where you're from Ferelden! But I decide the patrols not you and your whims! You may have been put for lieutenant in your first year no doubt with help of your friend former Guard Captain Ewald but I'll have no show offs in my command! Have I made myself clear! Report to your post before I have you and your Ferelden accomplice jailed for unsanctioned actions!"
WHAM! The office door slammed open hitting the wall behind it as Aveline stormed out with a look of anger and pure annoyance on her face, as Aveline exited City Guards glanced at her, some with pity others with scorn.
Garrett got a look at Captain Jeven as Aveline closed the door behind her, the man was middle aged with graying hair and a strong jaw with little eyes and he looked like he wanted to fire Aveline by the look of him. Aveline just stood outside Captain Jeven's office still with look of anger and annoyance, the group stared for a moment until Garrett stepped forward.
"Well, what a charming fellow" Garrett said dryly.
Aveline turned to him her face losing the anger but keeping the annoyance as she said "I don't have to like him but he could at least listen, the Ambushers are dead... that's all that should matter. It's not the first time he's made me wonder like this; something is very wrong here, come on let's see who's patrol that route was for."
The group followed Aveline to the roster pinned on a wall for patrols duties and watched as Aveline scanned it but was interrupted by another City Guards woman walking towards her.
"Aveline!" the Guardswoman called as she stepped in front of Aveline, "I owe you for clearing that ambush the other night. Saved me a mess of trouble" the woman said. Aveline looked shocked saying "Brennan, that route was yours?" "It was, single patrol, I'd have been dead for sure," Brennan the Guardswoman said.
Fenris raised an eyebrow saying "a long Guard on Sundermount... doesn't sound like much of a patrol," "shouldn't need to be, that route was clear for weeks; first noise out of it was your big fight Aveline. The Captain reassigned me after he heard what you did, and I passed the satchel to Donnic for his patrol tonight" Brennan replied.
"The Satchel?" Garrett asked in confusion.
"Oh it's just pay and order assignments, Captain has us ran deliveries to the outposts during light duty. Odd though, usually it's just an updated copy of the roster, the satchel for that delivery was heavy though, anyway thanks again Aveline. You're a good one I can see why Ewald recommended you" Brennan said as she left returning to her duties.
"So the satchel gets heavy the same day we discover an ambush" Aveline said looking thoughtful, Varric suddenly spoke up saying "that's a messy way to pass info and Brennan already sent it along... this looks pretty bad."
"Another Guard is walking into the same trap, we can't let that happen, Donnic is delivering the satchel this time, let me check his route" Aveline said turning to look at the roaster again.
"A night walk in Lowtown, let's go make sure his quiet patrol stays that way" Aveline said stepping back from the roaster. "Donnic's route is at night so lets meet up outside Gamlen's house before it dark" Garrett said as Aveline nodded and returned to her duties. The group left the Viscount's Keep and parted ways to their respected homes.
Night, Lowtown
Outside Gamlen's House
Lowtown was devoid of people in the street as the Hawke siblings and Kane stood outside Gamlen's house waiting for the others so they could help Donnic on his patrol.
Though the City Guard did their best it to keep the Kirkwall safe it was well known that being up and about Lowtown or Darktown at night was a bad idea if you cared for your life.
Moments ago just before Garrett went outside to wait for everyone he and Bethany had a small argument about her coming along this time. Garrett told his sister that it'd be dangerous for her to come along because the Guard, Donnic, would clearly see her as an Apostate and most likely report her to the Chantry.
Bethany countered her brother, saying that she could just her use Magic discreetly as she had before when they were Smugglers together. Garrett had been a little stumped at that but said "Bethany I know you've used Magic discreetly before but still I don't like you being so close to a City Guardsman... well besides Aveline."
Bethany had placed her hands on her hips saying "Garrett... your my brother and I love you but seriously I'm nineteen years old and father taught me a lot about laying low, I'll keep my distance like I always do."
Garrett had been stunned for a few seconds at Bethany standing up for herself in such a bold way, she'd never done that before... she was always that gentle calm person.
Garrett had finally relented and let Bethany tag along with Kane. After a few moments Garrett and Bethany saw movement and glanced towards the source of moment to see Varric and Fenris approaching. Varric waved and Fenris just nodded, the Hawke siblings waved in return as the four of them met up and waited for Aveline.
After a few minutes of waiting Aveline arrived wearing her City Guard Armor saying "all of you ready it's almost time," "yeah let's go" Garrett said as Bethany nodded.
Varric was spinning a arrow along his fingers saying "sure it'll be weird saving a Guard but should be interesting," Fenris neither nodded nor said anything, he just stood up and started walking forward clearly ready to go.
Aveline nodded saying "good let's go, Donnic should be about half way through his patrol, let's give him a helping hand."
The group followed Aveline through Lowtown as she lead them to where Donnic should be at the moment; it a took a couple of minutes but the group finally found Donnic.
From the look of things Donnic had been patrol like usual while carrying the satchel but had been ambushed by ten attackers, Donnic had managed to take out three of them but the other seven forced him into one of the back alleys of Lowtown while trying to defend himself.
Two of the ambushers were Archers, four used Daggers and their leader held a Battleax, Aveline lead the charge as the group rushed forward to help Donnic whom was on the floor dazed having taken a few bad hits.
The leader turned saying "he's got friends!" The Ambushers turned to met Aveline, Garrett, Fenris, and Kane.
The two Archers stayed where they were while the other Ambushers charged, Aveline pushed her Shield into the face of a man using Daggers then blocked a stab with her Longswords.
Garrett used his Longsword to block a slash and use his Shield to block a arrow that a Archer had fired as Kane bite the leg of another Ambusher causing him to cry out in pain as he tired to stab Kane but missed.
Fenris fought one on one with the leader, her Battleax to his Greatsword as Bethany and Varric kept their distance keeping the Arches busy.
Varric fired a single well aimed shot with his Crossbow hitting one of the Archers in the eye killing him instantly as he dodge an arrow from the other Archer; Bethany stayed mostly out of sight trying to see how she could help.
There thought Bethany as she saw the last remaining Archer aiming for her brother again, Bethany quickly and silently cast Disorient on the man. The man stumbled and almost dropped his bow no longer able to focus properly, Varric took the advantage to fire his crossbow, Varric's arrow flew through the air finding it's mark in the Archer's chest piercing his heart.
"Thanks Sunshine" Varric said grinning to Bethany as she stayed out of view from the corner.
"No problem" Bethany replied with a slight smile.
Meanwhile Garrett blocked another Dagger slash with his Shield then used his Longsword to slash the man's leg, the man grunted in pain as he stumbled trying not to fall as he held his Dagger outward.
Garrett used his Shield to knock the Dagger away and stabbed the man in the chest with his Longsword then withdrew his Longsword from the corpse; Aveline bashed her Shield into her opponents face and slash his throat with her Longsword finishing him off.
Kane, whom had bitten one of the Ambushers legs, pulled, bringing the man to the floor as Garrett arrived and stabbed the man in the chest with his Longsword as Kane moved out of the way.
Fenris was still fighting the leader and had now pushed her into the wall opposite Aveline and overpowered her with his Greatsword then forcefully slashed her in the chest killing the woman.
Kane barked calling attention to himself as he ran towards where Bethany and Varric were standing in the distance, "there's more" Garrett called as he rushed towards his sister while Aveline and Fenris followed.
Varric and Bethany turned around as five more Ambushers appeared from behind them, only these Ambushers weren't like the others they had just fought, these men were better equipped with leather armor and better weapons. Two of the armored men wielded Longsword and Shields, two more Archers only the Archers had stronger bows, lastly one armored man was using two Daggers.
The two Archers stayed behind to snipe while the other three armored men charged forward causing Varric and Bethany to back up while the others went to help.
Bethany quickly used Mind Blast, only hitting the man with the two Daggers but the other ones using Longsword and Shield weren't hit and keep charging.
Varric fired an arrow as he backed away trying to help Bethany but the man still charging towards blocked it with his Shield. Garrett was still rushing forward and manged to stop one of the armored men attacking Bethany by using his Shield to push the man back; using his Longsword Garrett tired to stop the other man but couldn't reach.
Kane had fallen back from dodging a few Arrows from the Archers while Aveline blocked two arrows with her Shield; Bethany tired to hit the man rushing her with her Staff but he just blocked it with his Shield.
The armored man used his Shield to push forward, trying to hit Bethany, but Bethany realized what he was doing and let go of her Staff while moving to the side to avoid being hit.
Bethany's Staff hit the floor with a wooded CLANG leaving her practically defenseless. Time seemed to slow down for both Hawke siblings, Bethany watched the events in front of her while Garrett saw from the corner of his eye and tired to move to help but couldn't as he had to protected himself from his fight, the armored man moving to slash Bethany with his Longsword.
Bethany tried to keep moving, to escape the slash aimed at her throat... but she knew she couldn't do it in time... then suddenly a Greatsword hit the armored man's Longsword mid swing; Fenris had made it to Bethany in time to help.
The armored man's Longsword flew out of his hands from the force of the blow as Fenris shoved the man causing him to stumble back and pull up his Shield, blocking Fenris's slash.
Fenris forced his Greatsword forward against the man's Shield causing the armored man to nearly drop his Shield as it was moved to his side. With the armored man's Shield out of the way Fenris's tattoos glowed blue white as Fenris stuck his hand into the armored man's chest and squeezed; the man cried out in pain as he died.
Fenris removed his hand from the dead man's chest and moved to keep attacking as Kane managed to reach Garrett and bite his attacker's leg giving Garrett the opening he needed. Garrett slashed his attackers chest, killing the man as Kane let go and moved to attack someone else.
Garrett moved to his sister and stood in front of her shielding her with Shield as he held his Longsword outward to attack anyone if needed, as Fenris attacked the man with the two Daggers, whom had recovered from Bethany's Mind Blast.
Garrett took a quick second to see what was happening and noticed that Aveline had made it to Varric in time and had been using her Shield to protect him from the Archers while Varric sniped and even managed to take out one of the Archers.
Varric quickly moved out of Aveline's protection and fired a quick shot, Varric's arrow hitting the last remaining Archer directly in the head killing him instantly.
Meanwhile Kane and Fenris attacked the man with the two Daggers, the man was surprising fast and able to hold his own against both Fenris and Kane all by himself.
Kane had dodged a slash directed at him but had gotten kicked in the face chasing him to fall back as Fenris tired to slash the man. The man swerved out of the way then jumped and kicked Fenris in the the chest with both his feet while flipping, what was that Garrett thought as he saw Fenris fall down from the hit.
Garrett rushed fourth and slashed with his Longsword, the man blocked using both his Daggers but Garrett quickly slammed his Shield into the man causing him to stumble back. Garrett used his Longsword to slash the man's throat, killing him almost instantly; Kane got up blinking from the kick as he looked at Garrett.
Fenris got back to his feet now that the fight was over. Bethany picked up her Staff still a little shaken at being so defenseless in that one moment where time seemed to slow down.
"Donnic, you okay?" Aveline called from where she stood as Garrett moved to his stand in front of his sister.
"Bethany are you alright?" Garrett asked with concern as he put his hands on her shoulders, "I'm fine, thanks Garrett" Bethany replied as Varric and Fenris moved with Aveline to check on Donnic.
Kane walked to the Hawke siblings seeing the two of them looking serious, Garrett let go of his sister's shoulders and pet Kane lightly remembering how Kane had been kicked.
"Poor boy" Bethany said softly as she pet Kane as well, Garrett stop petting Kane and moved to check on Donnic with others. Bethany moved to follow but Garrett stopped her saying "Bethany stay here, it's better if Donnic doesn't see you."
Bethany wanted to protest but understood why Garrett didn't want Donnic seeing her. Aveline being in the City Guard and knowing that Bethany was an Apostate was alright because they all knew she wouldn't turn Bethany in; but Donnic didn't know them and probably would do his job and inform the Templars if he even suspected Bethany was an Apostate.
There was also a small chance he had seen Bethany use her magic, Bethany hadn't used anything big or visible but the effects of the spells she had used on people could draw attention if they looked hard enough.
"Okay" Bethany muttered as Garrett signaled for Kane to stay with Bethany and moved with Aveline and the others, then Garrett stopped and said "Fenris." Fenris turned towards Garrett saying "Hawke?"
"Could you do me a favor and stay here with Bethany and Kane, you don't have to shadow them or anything... just stay close" Garrett asked awkwardly while he rubbed the back of his neck.
Fenris was silent for a moment then nodding saying "alright." "Thanks Fenris" Garrett said nodding before moving forward with Aveline and Varric to check on Donnic, whom was starting to get up a little dazed but looking relatively unharmed.
Bethany watched her brother walk off then was left waiting with Kane and Fenris, Bethany glanced at Kane standing beside her and Fenris to the left looking merely bored making no move to conversate in any way while holding his fighting Greatsword in his left hand.
Bethany looked away thoughtful, remembering what she had said to her brother back at Sundermount, 'I know he hates Magic but not even a thanks... for the shield I mean'.
"Fenris" Bethany said getting his attention, Fenris turned his head listening but didn't speak; "thank you for saving me earlier" Bethany said thinking that that they'd probably never be friends but at least should try to be civil to each other.
After a moment of silence where only Kane's sniffing could be heard Fenris answered "we are even now."
Fenris looked away without saying another word. So that's how Fenris shows gratitude... making debts and finding ways to repay them Bethany thought as she waited for her brother to return.
Meanwhile Aveline had reached Donnic and helped him slowly to his feet as Garrett and Varric approached; Donnic was still a relative young man about the same age as Garrett and Aveline, he had dark brown hair with matching eyes a bit of stubble that showed he had shaved recently.
"Who... Aveline? You're a beautiful sight?" Donnic said still recovering from the beating he took but generally okay, Aveline smiled at that as Donnic stuttered "uh I mean I was on patrol and they came out of nowhere. I took a few down but there too many at once... the Captain said this route was suppose to be quiet."
Then seeing Garrett and Varric, Donnic turned saying "thank you sirs I'm glad Aveline found some deputies to help out." "No problem" Garrett said as he glanced at the satchel Donnic had dropped and knelt down and picked it up.
Garrett examined the satchel shifting through the papers inside saying "the seal of the Viscount, looks like office details and city accounts... extremely valuable to a guild of thieves."
"A sacrificial delivery with one of our own, Captain Jeven will answer for this" Aveline snarled in anger. Varric chuckled saying "ah the old selling out his own for his benefit, forget Guard Captain this man needs to be government with all the others."
"Not now Varric, Jeven needs to see how Justice works, this goes to the Viscount... this will be known" Aveline said sternly a little annoyed at Varric's japing. Varric shrugged.
"You go on ahead I'll make it to back the Barracks on my own; thanks for the help" Donnic said waving them off.
Nodding Aveline, Garrett, and Varric left Donnic there as he took a moment to catch his breath, "any idea who were these Ambushers exactly?" Garrett asked the after everyone regrouped and started towards the Viscount's Keep in Hightown.
"They were Coterie" Varric sound after a moment of pondering, the rest of the group looked at him as he spoke wanting for info.
"How do you know that Varric?" Aveline asked.
"I can tell trust me, the group that first attacked Donnic were just common Sellswords but the reinforcements were Coterie straight up, the armor and weapons match their pattern. I wouldn't worry about it too much though, the Coterie's just a bunch of Thieves but their sorted into different groups who are always competing against each other... my guess is Jeven wanted to form an alliance with one of them, now that it just failed it's going embarrassing for them so they're gonna lay low" Varric replied as they walked.
Aveline nodded and turned towards the Hawke siblings saying "I'll keep an eye out for you two in case the Coterie wants to try anything for this but I doubt they'll even know about you... to them it'll just be the Guards cleaning up like usual."
"Thanks it's a great help knowing you'll look out for us" Garrett replied honestly.
"Listen, I can take the evidence to the Viscount offices from here, you all should get seem rest it's been a long day, especially you Bethany. I'll let the City Guard known you all were my deputies but I'll leave out Bethany's part... I think that's for the best, just find me in the Barracks tomorrow at noon for your reward" Aveline said stopping in front of the group.
Varric shrugged saying "alright then, back to the Hanged Man for now." Varric walked off waving to the group. Fenris merely nodded saying "Hawke" then took his leave of them as well.
Garrett nodded looking grateful as he said "alright Aveline I guess we'll see you tomorrow then," "yes and Bethany don't bring your Staff tomorrow" Aveline said as she shook both of their hands.
"I know, I've been in there before remember" Bethany replied nicely as Aveline left heading for Hightown.
The Hawke siblings and Kane returned to Gamlen's house for some much need rest after today's events, at least Bethany's alright... I need to thanks Fenris for that Garrett thought as he lay on the floor of the living room pondering everything that had happened and drifting back to sleep.
The next day, Noon
The Viscount's Keep
The Hawke siblings along with Varric and Fenris had just entered the Viscount's Keep and walked through the crowd of people working their shifts past a few Templars. Bethany had left her Staff at home again so she wasn't too worried. Sure enough the workers at the Viscount Keep glanced at Fenris awkwardly because of his markings again, no way around that, those markings do drew attention Garrett thought as they walked.
As they neared the Barracks they noticed something was going on as some Guards where watching something and even Arys looked a little confused and even forgetting to stop Garrett, Bethany, Fenris, and Varric walking into the Barracks.
Garrett looked around and noticed Donnic standing in a corner near where Arys was standing, "wait here" Garrett told his sister as he moved to Donnic past a confused Arys.
"Hey Donnic, it's me, Garrett from yesterday remember?" Garrett asked Donnic wanting to know what was going on. "Huh oh hi there thanks again for the help yesterday, really saved my ass back there" Donnic replied.
"Do you know what's going here? Everyone's just kinda standing around" Garrett said his eyebrow raised.
"The evidence Aveline and you got about... well you know Jeven's... uh... dealings got him in trouble, they're saying he's being forced to resign but from what I can tell Jeven's putting up a fight and doesn't want to leave his office. He's acting like a child. Few minutes ago we heard him screaming to Seneschal Bran that'd call his father for, I quote 'this insult upon your superior' Seneschal Bran left to get some assistance to remove Jeven; they went inside the office about a minute ago" Donnic said.
"Wow" Garrett said stunned that Captain Jeven was acting like a spoiled brat, he was Guard Captain he at least should leave with dignity Garrett thought as walked back to his sister, Varric, and Fenris.
"What's the word Hawke? There a fight or something going on?" Varric asked as Bethany and Fenris listened. "Something like a fight but it's mostly one sided; Jeven was asked resign but he's acting like a child and doesn't want to leave his office."
"Seriously?" Fenris asked tilting his head as Varric laughed lightly saying "oh man, that's embarrassing... all the people are just waiting for him to leave." Bethany just nodded disapprovingly at hearing about how Jeven was handling things, "how did this man ever became Guard Captain" Fenris asked.
Suddenly the Captain's Office door slammed open revealing Aveline and Seneschal Bran standing in the office. Seneschal Bran said "we gave you the chance to resign but you wouldn't take it. Jeven you are fired and hereby removed via dishonorable discharge."
Two Guards in full armor dragged Jeven out by his arms as he resisted yelling "How dare you! I am Guard Captain! I won't be treated like this! When my father hears about this I'll see you hanged! Quartered! This isn't over!"
The whole Barracks watched as Jeven was forcefully removed from the Viscount's Keep, some of the Guards and other workers even laughed as the man was literally thrown out the front door as the two Guards followed him out.
"By the Viscount's orders the Senior Officers will assume control of the City Guard together until a new Guard Captain has been elected; now please everyone back to work there is still much work that needs to done" Seneschal Bran called from the office.
Slowly all the City Guards began to resume there duties. "It was good seeing you again Garrett, I have to get back to work, later" Donnic said leaving the corner.
"Wait Aveline I need to talk you in the office, also your deputies should be here I have their reward, when will they arrival" Seneschal Bran asked surprising Aveline and the group. Aveline turned and saw them then beckoned them over saying "they're already here, Hawke over here." Garrett lead his sister, Fenris, and Varric into the office.
Garrett and the others entered the office with Aveline and Seneschal Bran waiting for whatever was to come; Seneschal Bran walked to the door and closed it clearly wanting some piracy for this conversation.
Wonder what this is about Garrett thought as Seneschal Bran turned around and walked to stand in front of group now they were alone in the office with no one listening in.
"The investigation into former Guard Captain Jeven led us to find a number of debts to... suspect peoples, such poor character... as you saw he has been removed from his position and will be sent to prison. We owe it all to you Aveline Vallen, you have proven your loyalty and considerable abilities" Seneschal Bran said kindly to Aveline.
"Thank you sir, the Guards deserve better than Jeven... we need someone like Ewald" Aveline said speaking her mind.
"Indeed, Aveline you hereby promoted to a Senior Officer, congratulations; also Viscount Dumar would have your name put fourth in the election for Captain of the Guard. It will be awhile but I'm fairly certain you will assume the Captain's job, you have high recommendations from both Ewald and Viscount Dumar. Seneschal Bran said.
Aveline stared at the Seneschal still processing the news.
"Jeven's father has lost influence because of this embarrassment. Needless to say your fellow Guardsmen will also favor you for exposing Jeven" Seneschal Bran continued to the surprise of Aveline and the group.
Letting the shock settle down Aveline said "What? Me as Captain?" Aveline said. Seneschal Bran nodded saying "not right away of course... there will be training, approvals from other Voters, weeks at least, Viscount Dumar believes you suited to rebuild respect to the City Guard."
Aveline smiled at the respect she had earned from the Viscount himself, "I suggest you resolve any outstanding business Guardswoman you will be very busy in the weeks to come" Seneschal Bran said.
Then turning to face the Hawke siblings, Fenris and Varric, Seneschal Bran spoke. "
You are all the Deputies that Aveline hired yes?" "Yeah that's us" Garrett said speaking for the group as he nodded at Aveline. "Yes, I have your reward and I ask that if you talk to the Kirkwall post or any other paper that you not say anything to further embarrass the City Guard" Seneschal Bran said looking very serious.
"Oh we won't go to any of the papers" Garrett said quickly before anyone else could interrupt while thinking it wouldn't be good to have Bethany's name in any paper.
"Fair enough then on behalf of the Viscount I'd like to thank you for your contribution in this... incident, good day" Seneschal Bran said as he pulled a coin pouch free and handing it to Garrett before leaving the office and the group alone with Aveline.
Varric walked over to Garrett saying "how much we get?" Garrett smirked saying "here count it for me."
Garrett handed the pouch to Varric and turned to face Aveline and grinned saying "Captain of the Guard huh, you know when I said you'd done well for yourself I didn't know you weren't done moving up in the world."
"Well I'm not Captain yet Garrett, but I am a Senior Officer now... anyway I might need some help every now again if you ever want a job I could always use a few good Deputies" Aveline said as Varric counted the coin. "I so happy for you Aveline, I know you'll be a good Senior Officer or Captain" Bethany said smiling at her friend's new bright future.
"Sure I wouldn't mind doing some jobs for the City Guard but won't that get you in trouble? Sending off the same Deputies over and over again to help out" Garrett asked wondering aloud.
"There's no law against having usual Deputies and I don't intend to lead from a desk now that I'm a higher rank... I'm always willing get my hands dirty and do the work unlike some of the other Senior Officers" Aveline said grinning.
"Twenty four Sovereigns" Varric called as he finished counting the newly acquired coin. "Six for each of us" Fenris said causally as Garrett and Aveline looked back at them. After grabbing his share of sovereigns alongside his sister, Garrett shook Aveline hand saying "well you know where I'll be if you need me."
Together all of them left the office, Aveline returning to her duties and the others leaving the Viscount's Keep, with some people glancing at Fenris awkwardly once again.
Exiting the Keep and walking further through Hightown, Garrett said "nothing else to do today, anyone up for the Hanged Man, Varric? Fenris?" Varric nodded saying "why not, I practically live there anyway."
"No thank you, I should return home, goodbye Hawke" Fenris said walking off towards the mansion he 'stayed' in.
Varric and Bethany watched as Fenris walked away but Garrett chased after saying "Fenris wait." Fenris stopped walking and turned around facing Garrett saying "Hawke, did you need something?"
"No I just wanted to say... thanks for saving Bethany, I couldn't reach her in time I owe you" Garrett said honestly; "merely repaying a debt, you owe me nothing" Fenris replied a little surprised.
"Regardless thanks" Garrett as he held his hand for Fenris to shake. Fenris awkwardly shook Garrett's hand then left
Varric shrugged as Garrett walked back to his sister and Varric. "So to the Hanged Man?" Bethany asked, Garrett and Varric nodded and together they headed to Lowtown.
Lowtown
The Hanged Man
The Hawke siblings and Varric had just walked in the Hanged Man seeing that it wasn't too packed only about twenty or so people there as Norah the waitress sat on a stool talking with the bartender while a man carried a box into the storage room behind the bar.
"Hey Hawke, Varric you need anything" Norah called from where she sat, "Two cups of Ale and some water" Garrett answered as the three of them sat down at a nearby table. Suddenly the man carrying the box turned saying "Hawke?"
Garrett and Bethany turned noticing the man's voice sounded familiar.
The man and the Hawke siblings glanced at each other, then the man said "Garrett! Bethany!" "Henry!" Garrett called as he and his sister stood up and walked towards him.
The Hawke siblings took a closer look at Henry Crewe, the farmer whom Garrett had stopped from running into the death trap that was the road at the destruction of Lothering, he and his family met up again on the ship to Gwaren. But unlike the Hawke family, the Crewe family had managed to get inside Kirkwall without resorting to loans or any kind of deals, they parted ways then and hadn't seen each other since.
"You look good Henry" Garrett said as he studied him, Henry had aged slightly since they last him a little over a year ago, he had early signs of wrinkles in his face with stress lines on his face most likely from rebuilding a family business.
"Dad what's going on?" a voice said from the storage room, "Juliana! Look who I ran into" Henry called as his eldest daughter exited the storage room having just put a box in there.
"Garrett... Bethany you got in!" Juliana said as she stared at them in awe, "I take it you know each other" Varric said from the table where he was still sitting.
"Oh sorry about that Varric, this is Henry and Juliana... we met on the way to Kirkwall from Ferelden way back when" Garrett said as Bethany shook hands with Henry and Juliana.
Garrett shook hands with Henry and Juliana as well as Bethany turned to Varric saying "it's kind of a long story," Varric grinned saying "all the best stories are."
Norah glanced at them curiously saying "sorry to interrupt but is that everything Henry," "just this last one" Henry replied as he quickly moved back into the storage room, shelved the box, and went back to talk to Garrett.
"What was that about?" Garrett asked. "Oh they deliver some crops to the Hanged Man, for some of our drinks and three of our soups" Norah said answering Garrett's question. Henry smiled with pride saying "paying for my family to get into Kirkwall took a toll on the family business but we're rebuilding and we've been selling our crops to a couple local businesses around Lowtown."
"Yeah but we still deliver everything ourselves and do everything else ourselves" Juliana complained lightly. "Dear that's unfair, we don't have the money for someone to ship our goods and besides there's honor in doing things ourselves" Henry said.
"That there is, hey do have some time... join us" Garrett said pointing at the table. "Sure we're only just delivering this shipment today nothing else, Juliana come" Henry said signaling for Juliana to join the Hawke siblings as he sat down at the table with Varric.
"So we're rebuilding our business what have you two been doing" Henry asked as Juliana sat down next to father across from Garrett.
"Oh Bethany and I were Dockers for almost a year but we quit for independent work" Garrett replied as Bethany nodded. Henry Crewe and his daughter Juliana Crewe began talking to the Hawke siblings and Varric about their time in Kirkwall as the Hawke siblings told theirstory as well (leaving out certain parts.)
But unknown to all of them was that a man was watching Garrett from inside the Hanged Man completely undetected by anyone.
This man had been outside the Viscount's Keep when Garrett and the others first went inside to get paid that afternoon, he had been there... unseen as Garrett had left the Viscount's Keep later, he had seen Fenris leaving.
This man had beaten Garrett to the Hanged Man and waited for him to arrive, the man took a sip of his Ale as he continued to watch and overhear... undetected by anyone.
This man silently rubbed a hand lightly across his face which was hidden from view by a local newspaper... the man remembered and remembered well as he traced the ragged scar that ran across his lips and past his cheeks.
Thanks for reading and please review!
I have a certain fondness for the Crewe family in my story, being OCs I've been trying to work them back in somehow
Hope you'll liked it.