Hey Guys, running a little late with this Chapter but I still got it Posted
This Chapter is a bit long but I really wanted to have certain Scenes in it
But I digress...
Enjoy
Lowtown, Gamlen's House
In the late Morning
Garrett Hawke awoke suddenly at the breakfast table in Gamlen's House, taking a look at where he was and what he was doing, Garrett stood up from the Breakfast Table.
Must have fallen asleep here... why didn't someone wake me up Garrett thought as he looked down and saw Xenon's Tome still open, heard movement from his right and turned his head to see Bethany walking towards him from the kitchen. "You're up, well today's a first you normally get up before any of us" Bethany said smiling slightly, "well I guess there's a first for everything, why didn't you wake me?" Garrett said yawning.
"Gamlen wanted too but mom and me stopped him" Bethany said then suddenly Garrett heard his Mother call "it seemed only fair, Gamlen's slept-in countless days and you've never done it even once." "With good reason" Garrett said as he stretched, marked his page, closed Xenon's Tome and placed it back in the Cabinet. "How's your chest?" Bethany asked intently as Garrett walked towards the Kitchen to see if Leandra had any breakfast left for him. Garrett glanced down towards his chest where the Arrow Tip had pierced into his flesh just yesterday, looking thoughtful he said "it's fine, doesn't hurt that much anyway let me just eat then take a bath so we can meet with Varric later."
"I saved some Soup for you" Leandra said as Garrett walked into small, cramped square that passed for a Kitchen in Gamlen's House. "Thanks Mom" Garrett asked as he took the bowl and sit down to eat as Gamlen opened the front door carrying a bag and walked in saying "there I got the Dog his blighted food.
Kane ran towards Gamlen looking wide eyed seeing him carrying his food, "you're up finally huh, too much to drink or something" Gamlen said ignoring Kane and glancing at Garrett.
"No I never drink that much, stayed up reading" Garrett said between his eating of the Soup and finishing it in less than two minutes causing Gamlen to blink saying "damn you eat fast." "Something I picked up from my time in the Ferelden Army" Garrett said standing up having finished his Soup and moving to Bathroom to take a Bath.
"An Apostate and a Templar in the Family, as if we weren't already weird enough" Gamlen said as Garrett closed the Bathroom door to take a Bath. "I'm not becoming a Templar! I'm just learning their Talents and Tactics so I can counter-act them" Garrett said sternly from the Bathroom as Gamlen moved on saying "whatever."
After finishing and getting dressed Garrett walked out of the Bathroom to find Leandra holding his Reinforced Leather Armor saying "I finally stitched up the hole but I don't think the Enchantments will cover the stitch." "Thanks for trying, I'll see about repairing it correctly so the Enchantments still protect all of it" Garrett said, grabbing his Armor and putting on the bottom part of it on anyway as he held the top part thinking of how to repair it correctly. Feels odd wearing a T-Shirt without my usual Armor Garrett thought as he turned towards his Longsword and Shield. "You finished, you were in there less than minute" Gamlen called slightly surprised from the breakfast table.
"Something I picked up from-" Garrett began but was interpreted by his Uncle raised his arms saying "the Ferelden Army! We get it... show off."
"I never even mentioned these things until now, if you ever got up earlier you've noticed it when we first started living here" Garrett replied getting his Longsword and Shield then sheathing them. Bethany chuckled slightly at her Brother and Uncle's banter as Leandra took the bag Gamlen had brought and feed Kane.
"Alright let's go" Garrett said moving towards the front door as Bethany followed, "I hope we don't have go to Xenon to fix your Armor" Bethany commented as Garrett responded "I wanna see if Worthy can fix it first." "I'd rather go to Worthy then Xenon, the Black Emporium takes forever to get to" Bethany said lightly as they left.
The Hightown Marketplace
"Where'd you get your hands on this, it's really well Enchanted" Worthy, the Dwarf Rune Merchant, said as he examined Garrett's Armor closely. "I got a good deal that's all" Garrett said feeling odd without the top part of his Reinforced Leather Armor as Bethany stood beside him and Worthy felt the Stitch that Leandra had put in the Armor.
Worthy glanced at Garrett chuckling "a good deal, more like great deal." "So, think you can fix it for me" Garrett said rubbing the back of his neck as Bethany glanced at a Tailor Store then looked away again. Worthy looked up and faced Garrett saying "yeah I can fix it Hawke... but it's gonna be a bit pricey," Garrett nodded understanding as he thought it's a really good piece of Armor... it's a good investment.
"How much" Garrett asked as he reached for his money pouch, "Two and a half Sovereigns but because it's you Hawke only Two Sovereigns" Worthy said calmly as he held out his hand for the payment.
Garrett grinned slightly saying "thanks Worthy," as he handed Two Sovereigns over to his old friend from his time as a Smuggler. "Alright, I should be finished in hour or so" Worthy said taking the money from Garrett and placing the Reinforced Leather Armor on his Workbench and getting to work.
"Alright then Bethany we got an hour to kill so... Bethany... hello" Garrett said noticing that Bethany keep glancing at a near by Tailor Store. "Hmm, what? Sorry about that Garrett" Bethany said awkwardly turning her gaze from the Tailor Store.
Garrett raised an eyebrow at his sister saying "you okay there," "I'm fine... how are you? I know Fenris did that 'thing' but we should still take a look at it" Bethany replied sheepishly. Garrett looked where Bethany had been glancing at saying "you... you want to buy something?" "no, no, it's okay we have more important things to worry about" Bethany said quickly, not wanting to be a bother when they were getting Garrett's Armor repaired. Garrett glanced at his sister then back at the Tailor Store saying "what did you want anyway?" "really it's okay... it's something dumb" Bethany replied.
Garrett faced Bethany honestly saying "if it's not something too big maybe we can get it," Bethany rubbed her fingers together awkwardly saying "it's that Scarf... I like it." Garrett raised an eyebrow in confusion saying "but... you already have a Scarf," as he looked at Bethany's red Scarf she wore almost everyday.
Bethany ran her fingers across her Scarf, the piece of red Silk that Mother had gotten for her on her Thirteenth birthday. Bethany glanced back at the Tailor Store this time allowing her brother to see the blue Scarf she had been looking at, saying "I just think it looks nice." Noticing the look her brother was given her Bethany said "I'm not forgetting this one, Mother gave it to me, it's just... nice, I like the way it looks."
Garrett sighed slightly and reached for his Coin Pouch, pulled it from his belt, then tossed it towards Bethany, whom caught it smiling slightly. Garrett waited as Bethany went to the Tailor's Store to buy the blue Scarf, as Bethany was returning Garrett heard someone call his name. "Garrett!" a young woman called as Bethany stood next to her brother, giving him back the Coin Pouch, saying "only Twenty One Copper... is that Juliana?"
The Hawke siblings turned from where they stood and sure enough saw Juliana Crewe walking towards them followed by her little sister Jasmine. "Hey Juliana!" Bethany called as the Crewe Sisters stood in-front of the Hawke siblings in the back of the Hightown Marketplace. "Hello Juliana" Garrett said then turning to face Jasmine he said "whoa there Jasmine you got taller," Jasmine brightened slightly trying to stand taller to Garrett's amusement.
"So what brings you here" Garrett asked the Crewe Sisters as Bethany switched her old red Scarf for her new blue one and pocketed her old red Scarf.
"That Scarf looks good on you Bethany it matches your eyes... and Garrett's" Juliana said, a little odd at that last part as Jasmine said "Family Business managed to get two customers for our Crop Business here in Hightown." "Thank you Juliana" Bethany said as Garrett commented "the Crewe Crop Business's spreading to Hightown good for you!" "So what brings you two to Hightown" Juliana said then getting a look her eye, which Garrett wasn't sure if he liked or not, continued "are you two on one your independent jobs?"
"Is that why you have your Longsword and Shield" Jasmine exclaim excitingly, oh yeah forgot how Jasmine is... but Juliana's okay though, still she a bit excited too Garrett thought as he sighed in his mind unable to do it physically without being rude.
"Just getting my Armor repaired, I know a Merchant here, Worthy, who gives me a discount" Garrett said casually as Bethany nodded glad to see the Crewe Sisters. "Oh so what happened?" Juliana asked noticing how Garrett was still technically wearing Armor just only the bottom part.
Jasmine, with the amazement only an Eleven year old could muster, widened her eyes saying "were you fighting Bandits, did they have Longswords too!" "Uh no, just something I had to do for a Friend, got hit but not too badly" Garrett said rubbing the back of his neck. "Oh... I'm sorry are you okay then" Juliana said as Jasmine tired to see any injuries on Garrett, but finding none thanks to Bethany's Healing the day before.
"I'm fine, thanks for your concern" Garrett said honestly as he glanced at Worthy in the back hard at work to mend the Reinforced Leather Armor properly so the Enchantments would protect Leandra's Stitch as well as the rest of it.
"We have an hour before Garrett's Armor is repaired so would you like to enjoy town with us" Bethany asked as she looked at the Crewe Sisters. "Oh yeah, we finished our Deliveries for today early" Juliana said as Jasmine grinned slightly. Garrett glanced at Bethany then at the Crewe Sister saying "you'll go on ahead without me, I want to check on something."
"I can come too" Bethany said giving the Crewe Sisters an apologizing look; "come on Garrett relax with us" Juliana said frowning looking slightly disappointed. Holding up his hands up Garrett said "no, no, enjoy Hightown, Bethany I'll meet you back here in an hour." Bethany nodded somewhat reluctant as Garrett began walking off, the Crewe's are good people I trust them Garrett thought as he left waving at Bethany and the Crewe Sisters.
A short while later
Behind the Viscount's Keep
Guard Training Yard
"Hello again Garrett" Aveline said as she practiced with her Wooden Longsword and Shield on the little Wooden Man. Aveline was wearing a training uniform that was light blue and with black boots, there were about twenty other Guards training, but unlike Aveline most of them trained in pairs.
Garrett noticed that Training Yard for the Guards was basically a large square with Sand for Floor, three rows of Wooden Men stood waiting to be used. Racks of Wooden Weapons, Longswords, Greatswords, Spear, Ax, and Shield, were placed to the right of the entrance, to the left stood other Racks filled with spare training Uniforms like Aveline's. Down further left to the Training Uniforms were two Changing Rooms, one for Men and one for Women, and finally there was a path leading to a Running Track.
"Hello Aveline, just wanted to stop bye and ask about Saemus" Garrett said standing beside Aveline as she practiced different slashes and stabs at her Wooden Opponent.
Aveline stopped her practicing, turning around facing Garrett to speak. "Well, far as I can tell Saemus isn't in too much trouble, though I think the Viscount is a bit upset with him and the Seneschal is just worried about the Political Damage that could turn up from Saemus's fondness of the Qunari" Aveline said.
"So I take it only us and a few of others know of what happened at the Wounded Coast" Garrett said understanding how Saemus would be in some trouble, even if he'd did do anything really wrong compared to others things he could have done.
Aveline nodded, then raising her eyebrow slowly turned her gaze to what Garrett was wearing, the bottom half of his Reinforced Leather Armor and a plain T-Shirt. "Never thought I'd see the day Garrett Hawke wore half his Armor and a plain T-Shirt" Aveline said humorously as Garrett chuckled slightly.
"I'm having it repaired in Hightown, that Arrow was a really lucky shot... I think it hit a weak point in the Armor and the Arrow Tip was small enough to bypass the Enchantments" Garrett replied as he vaguely noticed a group of Guards enter the Training Yard.
Aveline nodded then grinned saying "I take it Bethany's still a bit annoyed that you literally walked into an Arrow for Fenris," "yeah but I'm okay... anyway why aren't you training in a pair like most of the others" Garrett said as he glanced at the other Guards.
Aveline frowned awkwardly saying "people... don't... like to spar with me," is... Aveline embarrassed Garrett thought humorously. "I'll spar with you Aveline, I have an hour before my Armor's repaired" Garrett said causing Aveline to glance around the training room saying "... I don't know, it's really only for Guards, but it's good to spar with a living person... sure." Garrett nodded as he went to the Rack on the right and grabbed a Wooden Longsword and Wooden Shield, unsheathing his real Weapons and placing them into the bottom Rack were other Guards appeared to store their real Weapons.
Walking back to stand in-front of Aveline, Garrett held his Wooden Longsword and Shield out to spar with her and in need of some sparing of his own. Aveline stepped forward and slashed her Wooden Longsword at Garrett's and together began to lightly spar, quickly trading light blows high and low. Aveline appeared to be surprised that Garrett was able to block and match every one of her blows and said "I forgot how good you were Garrett, mind if if we pick up the pace?" "Go ahead" Garrett said as together the two former Ferelden Soldiers sped up there sparing and got really into it.
After awhile of their sparing Garrett and Aveline got really into their fight, unknown to them however was that their Sparring Match was drawing some of the other Guards attention. Aveline came at Garrett with her Wooden Shield which Garrett's blocked using his, then slash his Wooden Longsword. Aveline blocked Garrett's slashes and tired a high slash with her Shield as she moved her Wooden Longsword toward Garrett's chest.
Only for Garrett to duck using his Wooden Longsword to block Aveline's, then lightly pushing Aveline back with his Wooden Shield. Stumbling backwards slightly Aveline was got caught off-guard as Garrett rushed at her. Aveline tired to ward off Garrett with her Wooden Longsword but Garrett surprised Aveline by blocked with his Wooden Shield, forcing her Wooden Longsword out of the way, then pivoting around Aveline and slashing her Back lightly with his Wooden Longsword.
Garrett waited as Aveline stumbled forward then regained her footing and turned to face him saying "if that was a real Longsword you could have slashed or back-stabbed me... that's not Ferelden, where you pick that up?" Garrett shrugged saying "my Dad taught it to me... according to Fenris it's from a Tevinter fighting style," Aveline nodded saying "interesting, no wonder you managed to get a good Rank so fast with Captain Bale," as she rushed at Garrett. Garrett blocked and was forced back by Aveline's blows as he said "yeah, Captain Bale said something similar... Carver would've got the same rank, ah... as me but he had trouble following order sometimes."
Garrett turned the tables on Aveline using his superior strength to put more force into his blows causing Aveline to step back and back. "So that's why Carver never ranked too high and didn't got the Field Armor like you did" Aveline said in-between Garrett's blows as she was forced back.
"Yes, but Carver was good enough for it, like I said he loved being the Army but had trouble always following orders" Garrett said pressing forward. Aveline didn't know to shift her footing to counter Garrett's superior strength and was pushed to the ground by Garrett's blows, before Aveline could get up Garrett aimed his Wooden Longsword at her throat but at a safe distance away. Grinning slightly Garrett said "you're dead," Aveline laughed lightly saying "looks like, been awhile since someone took me down." Garrett moved his wooden Longsword to his other hand and held out his free hand for Aveline to grab, she took it as Garrett helped her up.
Standing a good distance apart once again the two former Ferelden Soldiers began sparing once again. After a few minutes Aveline surprised Garrett as he pivoted away from a Wooden Shield slash only to meet her Wooden Longsword pressed lightly against his neck as if to be cut. Garrett was frozen as Aveline held her Wooden Longswords against his throat, smirking Aveline said "you're dead Garrett."
Chuckling slightly Garrett said "suppose I am," Aveline removed her Wooden Longsword from Garrett's throat and stepped back. Garrett and Aveline continued sparing but this time neither being able to get a 'finishing blow' on another, both matching blow for blow intensely and dodging each other until they heard a annoyingly familiar voice calling "excuse me!"
Garrett and Aveline stopped as both their Wooden Longswords met with a Wooden Clunk, turning they both saw Arys standing in front of the entrance to the Training Yard wearing his usual sharp blue Uniform.
Then that's when Garrett and Aveline noticed something that they'd been too busy to notice before... while Garrett and Aveline had been sparring they had... drawn a crowd.
Literally, a crowd of Guards in their Training Uniforms had been watching their entire sparing match, we were just sparring... why did we draw a crowd Garrett thought slightly embarrassed. Arys stepped forward slightly saying "Sir Hawke, this is the Training Yard for City Guards, I'm afraid I must ask you to leave," afraid to ask, right Garrett thought sarcastically but knowing Arys had a point. Garrett, now standing beside Aveline, nodded saying "right, sorry about that," Garrett went back to the Weapons Rack and put the Wooden Weapons back and re-sheathed his Longsword and Shield.
Garrett waved at Aveline saying "see you around Aveline," nodding Aveline said "thanks for the Sparing match." As Garrett was leaving, the crowd they had drawn went back to what they were doing, walking back towards the entrance one of the Guards turned to him saying "brave man, sparing with Aveline like that." Garrett raised an eyebrow at that as he walked on, only for another Guard to say "good fight man, people would pay to see you two fight for real."
Finally making it back to the entrance and leaving the Training Yard, Garrett was stopped by Arys saying "how did you even know Aveline was here Hawke?" Garrett stopped to face Arys saying "I passed Donnic on my way to the Barracks and asked him where she was, simple really."
Arys crossed his arms saying "if you want to visit your Girlfriend please do it when she's not working or training after all she's a Senior Officer and has work to do." Garrett raised both his eyebrows, his eyes widening as he said "uh... what... no Aveline's not my Girlfriend just a friend Arys."
Arys shrugged as he left Garrett saying "the City Guard's Privatematters are none of my concern so I have no reason to care Hawke." "Uh no really, she's not my Girlfriend" Garrett said but Arys had already entered the Training Yard and could longer hear him. Garrett shook his head thinking about how annoying Arys could be then glanced at the Clock noticing that a little over an hour had past.
Running late sorry Bethany, she's with the Crewe Sisters I'm sure she won't mind Garrett thought as he hurried started towards the Hightown Marketplace.
Hightown Marketplace
Worthy's Booth
As Garrett made it to the Hightown Marketplace and started towards Worthy's Booth he noticed Bethany and the Crewe Sisters chatting, Bethany still wearing her new blue Scarf. "Hey Bethany sorry I'm running a little late" Garrett said as he stood in-front of them and glanced at Worthy. Bethany turned towards Garrett saying "It's okay, I picked up your Armor for you, Worthy finished repairing it already." "Thanks Bethany" Garrett said as Bethany handed him the top part of his Reinforced Leather Armor, as he took he noticed that Bethany and the Crewe Sisters glanced at him funny.
"You sweated a little... what happened?" Bethany asked looking confused as Juliana and Jasmine looked confused as well. "Oh yeah, I stopped by to visit Aveline and she needed a sparing partner so I volunteered" Garrett said put the top part of his Reinforced Leather Armor over his plain T-Shirt.
"Aveline, she was on that Ship with us when we were first coming here right" Juliana asked, "yeah that's her, she was in the Ferelden Army like I was" Garrett replied now wearing all of his Reinforced Leather Armor. "So Aveline spared with... you two Spar together a lot" Juliana asked with odd look on her face, "not really, today was the first time" Garrett replied as he thought feels good to all my Armor back. "Aveline is one of our best friends" Bethany said with a slightly emphases on that last part which seemed to return Juliana to normal.
What was that about Garrett thought as Jasmine studied Garrett's Armor saying "I could spar with you Garrett!" Jasmine held out a imaginary Sword and pretended to move into a battle position ready to Spar with Garrett causing him to chuckle saying "oh no, a wise man knows to pick his battles and look at you! You'd slaughter me." Jasmine smirked as she imagined herself sparing with Garrett using the wildness only an Eleven year old could muster.
Garrett smiled slightly sad at that thinking she's... she reminds me of Carver when he was younger, before he started always to trying to be better than me in everything. Garrett glanced at his sister Bethany and noticed that she had that same sad smile, she'd had the same thought as he did; together they shared a look that seemed to say I know.
Juliana noticed that look between the Hawke siblings and said "is something wrong?" "No it's nothing, I'm glad you three got to enjoy Hightown, anyway we should meet up with Varric for whatever jobs we have today Bethany" Garrett said as Bethany nodded. "Well it was nice to you again Juliana" Bethany said as she got ready to leave with her brother, "hope we can meet up again so time" Juliana said as Jasmine waved at them.
The Hawke siblings waved as they left the Hightown Marketplace and the Crewe Sisters, heading towards Lowtown.
As they walked through Hightown and towards Lowtown Bethany turned towards her brother saying "you know Juliana was a little disappointed that you didn't stay with us Brother." Turning to face his sister as they walked Garrett said "I wanted to check on somethings, besides you had fun didn't you?" "Yes Brother I had fun but what about you, you can't say you had fun Sparing... oh... I guess you can" Bethany said, chuckling slightly at that last part.
Garrett chuckled slightly too as Bethany continued "you know I'm pretty sure Juliana wouldn't mind seeing you more." "I don't have time for a Girlfriend Bethany and besides Juliana is really young, now please stop trying to 'set me up' if the Expedition is successful and we're Higher Class Citizens here then I'll have Mother to deal with for that" Garrett said seriously with a small hint of humor.
Bethany smiled at that saying "true, you'll have Mother for that and she might have to Cage you somewhere for it," Garrett made a face then lightly tapped Bethany on her forehead saying "for Maker's sake please don't give Mother ideas." "Too late, Mother already has the idea" Bethany said joking causing Garrett chuckle "wonderful, thanks a lot Bethany.. now I have to always make sure I have an exit."
Hours Later
Night, Lowtown
The Hawke siblings, Varric, Merrill, Isabela, and Anders walked through Lowtown after having spent the last few hours doing a job Varric had gotten them.
They had to get back some stolen goods for a Merchant that Varric was friends with from some Dark Town Thugs, they gotten the goods back after searching Darktown and finding the Thugs trying to rob another Merchant near Lowtown. They had just returned the goods and the Hawke siblings were now going home, Anders on his way back to Darktown, with the others going to the Hanged Man.
Merrill's a pretty good addition to the group, she can help out a lot and knows Dalish Magic Garrett thought as they walked. "Glad you like working with us Daisy" Varric said glancing at Merrill whom smiled speaking in her Dalish accent saying "thanks for letting work me with you, I could use the Coin."
"No problem Merrill it's always good to have another helper" Garrett said, Merrill smiled slightly saying "I glad to help it's the least I can do since all you've done for me." Garrett was about to reply when he stopped and turned to see an odd sight for Lowtown at Night or Day. Standing to the right of Garrett and others was a Chantry Sister with lightly gray hair and thin eyebrows and an Armed man talking, the others noticed as well and listened. From what Garrett could hear it appeared that the Sister was looking to Hire someone but the armed man were cheating her, unknown to the poor Sister, as he said "let's just step into this Alley so me and the boys can have a look at the money."
Isabela frowned saying "can anyone get this deep into Lowtown and be that stupid?" Varric shook his head in a 'no' saying "another sad Lowtown tale in the making, as if we needed another," "either way she could use some help, Bethany, Anders, Merrill stay back, Varric and Isabela come on" Garrett said dryly.
"Such a boyscout" Isabela said as she and Varric followed Garrett to help the Sisters while the Mages of the group stayed behind. Upon reached the Alley they saw a group of five men looking menacing and obviously going to mug the Sister; just as their leader stepped forward to threaten the Sister, Garrett spoke. "Leave her alone, she's a Chantry Sister for the Maker's sake," Garrett said as he, Isabela, and Varric unsheathed their weapons as the armed men had theirs drown out.
"This is our mug go bother someone else" the leader said only for Garrett to nod no, the leader charged only to be hit in the face by Garrett's Shield. Varric aimed at one of the armed men causing him to step back with the others as Isabela held her throwing Dagger at the ready, "you're outmatched here just leave" Garrett said to the leader on the ground.
The leader reluctantly nodded and stood up waving for the others to leave like he was, Garrett, Isabela, and Varric watched them leave.
The Chantry Sister walked up to Garrett saying "well, thank you for your timely intervention, I am... out of my element." Isabela shrugged sarcastically saying "you don't say," Garrett nodded agreeing with Isabela as the Sister continued "I had to come here to get the type of people I need, someone of bloody skill but also integrity."
Then the Sister got a more serious look on her face saying "perhaps the kind of people who might leap to someone's defense... I have a charge who needs passage from the City, If you're willing and capable meet me at my safe-house." Garrett raised an eyebrow saying "we just saved you and suddenly we're in business?"
The Sister got an annoyed look on her face saying "you're in Lowtown, what grand scheme could I be interrupting?" Then the Sister walked around them calling "Varnell," Garrett watched as a Templar moved to greet the Sisters and together left with the Sister waving for them to follow saying "I hope you'll come. This matter only grows more urgent with time."
Garrett watched the Templar thinking why was a Templar guarding her. Garrett glanced at the others saying "what do you think," Varric and Isabela exchanged a look then Varric said "don't know, could be interesting?" Just then Garrett heard movement and turned to see Bethany, Merrill, and Anders walking around the corner towards them. "What was a Templar doing here?" Bethany asked as she moved to stand beside her brother while Anders called "I think he was Guarding that Sister." Merrill just shrugged saying "we thought it'd be best to avoid the Templar so we went around," "good idea" Garrett said to Merrill then told them what had just happened with the Sister.
"We could check it out then walk away if we don't like the job, we're a pretty formidable group so I don't think they could stop us" Anders said wisely. Garrett nodded at Anders saying "I agree, let's at least see what it is," then Garrett led the group to where the Sister and her Templar Guard had left, he spotted them moving deliberately slow towards a small Shack.
That's the safe-house Garrett thought as he led the group there, they watched as the Sister and the Templar entered the small Shack and upon reaching the door, entered themselves. Entering the small Shack Garrett noticed the Templar Guard waiting for them with his Weapons drown but held downward, a message, if you attack I am ready. Garrett held out his arms in peace as the Sister walked in-front of them and Anders closed the Shack door behind them, gripping his Staff slightly.
"Thank you for coming, I need people of... limited notoriety who will not link this to me" the Sister said straightforwardly. A Sister who needs stealthy work... what has the Chantry come too Garrett thought as the Sister continued speaking. "It is an escort, but I think you will agree, the nature of the party make this... unique," the Sister said calmly.
"A Chantry Sisters who wants help with something Criminal, we already have enough trouble" Anders said crossing his arms from where he stood behind Garrett and Bethany. The Chantry Sister glanced at Anders annoyingly and said "I should think you all are about to have more, I am Sister Petrice... this is my burden of Charity. You'll receive half the payment now and the last half after you finish." Just as the Chantry Sister, Petrice, finished speaking she waved her hand and the Templar, Varnell, walked to a nearby curtain and pulled it back ushering for someone behind it to step forward.
Varnel stepped aside and walked away as the person behind the curtain walked out and stood in the center of the Shack.
A Qunari! But not just any of them... a Mage Garrett thought as the huge Eight foot tall Qunari stood in the center of the room. I fought of one these Qunari Mages when we're clearing out that Tal-Vashoth Camp in the Wounded Coast... they're really tough, if Maraas hadn't told us what to expect and joined us I don't know if I could killed that Tal-Vashoth Mage Garrett thought quickly as he saw this Qunari Mage. But Garrett and the group noticed that this Qunari Mage was not like the Tal-Vashoth one they had fought and killed in the Wounded Coast.
Similar to the Tal-Vashoth Mage, this one had his Horns Chiseled off; but unlike the Tal-Vashoth one, this Mage was... Chained Up. Thick Bronze colored Chains were placed on the Qunari Mage holding his strange assortment Armor/Clothes together along with leather straps that, attached a Collar together on his Shoulders, connected his Chains.
Lastly the major difference between this Qunari Mage and the Tal-Vashoth Mage was that this one had a strange Golden Mask... the Mask seemed heavy and very uncomfortable to wear. Is this Qunari Mage being Punished for something... and why was he hidden behind that curtain in a Shack with a Chantry Sister and a Templar Garrett thought as he took in the scene.
While Garrett analyzed this the others had stood stunned at the shape this Qunari Mage was in, all beat up and the Chains and Collar. Bethany gaped and put a hand on her mouth saying "Maker," Anders frowned concernedly, Merrill gaped, Varric shifted his feet uncomfortably, and Isabela had a strange look on her face.
Sister Petrice stepped forward pointing at the Qunari Mage saying "would even a Templar bind a Mage like this... that Collar that hold those Chains up and that horrible Mask." Moving to stand next the Qunari Mage, Petrice continued saying "a Survivor of infighting with their Tal-Vashoth outcasts, I call him Ketojan 'a bridge between worlds.' The Viscount, and others, feel that peace begins with appeasement, this Qunari Mage would likely be returned to his brutal Kin, he can serve a better purpose. I want him free, he must be guided from the city without alerting his people or being seen in my care."
Ketojan growled slightly as if trying to speak but no one could understand what he was trying to say... the Golden Mask... it didn't allowhim to speak right. Garrett rub the back of his neck saying "I've met with the Qunari leader, the Arishok, before he'd want to know of this," as Anders stepped forward to stand next to Garrett so as to better see Ketojan.
Petrice seemed taken aback by that saying "you... have dealt with the Qunari leader," then getting a seriously expression she continued "if you have interacted with the Qunari, you know how they treat those who leave their heathen order. The Arishok would doom poor Ketojan, but knowing them is useful if they challenged you, attacking an Ally would only confirm their Barbarism, you are still right for the task."
Garrett narrowed his eyes saying "if you're intent on this, why not use Chantry resources?" "My Order will soon realize the Qunari presence is more than a test of faith... it's an open challenge, but for now I must act on my own" Petrice replied quickly. "Helping this Qunari Mage shows how Qunari Heresy cannot be ignored, his Flight is vital" Petrice continued as she crossed her arms.
Varric spoke up saying "not to put a hole in this plan, but is freedom so useful, a new life with that Collar seems doubtful." Petrice nodded saying "and yet it is more than he has, my reach is limited and his struggle is his own." Varric shrugged saying "just saying that it seems like releasing a Bird still in it's Cage," "we do what we can" the Petrice replied simply. Garrett glanced at Ketojan again then back at Petrice saying "you don't stumble on something like this," Petrice blinked saying "for all their Blasphemous certainty, the Qunari do have deserted... those who seek Freedom are hunted mercilessly."
Bethany spoke up saying "the Tal-Vashoth you mean, they seemed to have accepted their role," Petrice glanced at Bethany saying "even their Rebels conform, Sir Varnell saw one of their bloody exchanges, poor Ketojan was the only survivor." Merrill stood on her toes, being the shortest among the group, saying "and you're sure Ketojan is being hunted, he seems to have survived so far... with your help but he managed to do it... not to say that you didn't help... I'll just stop talking now."
Bethany patted Merrill's shoulder reassuringly as Petrice said "look at Ketojan, no thinking Creature would willingly submit to this, if he wasn't running before he's seized the opportunity now." Garrett stepped towards Ketojan to get a better look at him saying "can he help if something comes up... if I trust him at all."
"I honestly don't know of his capabilities, or if he can function at all in that Collar but I think we're his only way out" Petrice said slightly awkward. Garrett raised an eyebrow saying "you think?" "he has followed every direction and made no aggression moves even when taunted were I in his place I could have fled, Qunari or not I can only assumed he wants to be led to freedom" Petrice replied. "But if you're wrong I have to deal with it" Garrett said crossing his arms, "the exact reason I went to Lowtown, you're capable of the skills that I need or you're not." Isabela smirked at that last part of capable skills, she was once a Pirate after all.
How can the Qunari be so cruel to one of their own... this is worse than anything the Circle does to their Mages, how could his Kin standby seeing him like this... I'd never allow that to happen to Bethany, I'd die before anyone tried to bind Bethany like that... Chains and a Collar, so cruel Garrett thought as he decided to help.
"I can get him out of Kirkwall, he's a bit conspicuous for the streets though" Garrett said thinking about how to go about this. Petrice nodded saying "Ketojan is a fine example of how cruel Qunari are even to their own kind but only if plays out right." Petrice walked towards to a back room in the Shack and opened the door, moving aside she let them see inside the room, there in the center of the small room was an entrance leading down.
Petrice gestured towards the entrance saying "this passage here leads to the Undercity Warrens and ends at Vimmark Mountain Pass, it's dangerous but that's why you were hired... good luck." Petrice handed Garrett two Sovereigns saying "Here's half, the rest you'll get after finishing," Garrett nodded as he took the coin saying "you never even asked my name, isn't that bad judgment?" Petrice awkwardly nodded saying "yes, what is your Sir name?" "Hawke" Garrett replied as he led the group down the passage with Ketojan following.
Going down the Passage with Ketojan the group reached the bottom and now stood in the Undercity Warrens, one of worse parts of Darktown... even the City Guard didn't go down here.
Undercity Warrens
"Tromping through the deep dark with a Horn Skull Mage, we do strange work Hawke" Varric said as they walked through the Undercity. Garrett nodded as glanced at Ketojan, whom seemed to just be following them without really knowing what to do, it'd help if we could communicate with him better... too bad no one's seen Fenris today he thought.
Merrill looked at Ketojan again sadly saying "I'll just don't understand... why would they do this to him, it looks painful?" Anders crossed his arms saying "it's because he's a Mage, I had never thought what Mages in the Qunari or other lands must face... it's seems they are even more oppressed than we are with our Circles." Ketojan looked at Anders and growled slightly as if trying to speak like he had back in the small Shack.
Anders stepped back towards Ketojan frowning and patted his Shoulder saying "oh my friend... what have they done to you... we'll get you to safety I promise." Stopping the group, Garrett turned towards Anders saying "I'd say I know Darktown a bit but you know it better Anders," Anders turned to face Garrett and blinked saying "yeah Hawke I suppose I know Darktown pretty well." The rest of the group and Ketojan had stopped to listen to what Garrett was planning, "I think Anders and I should take point, he knows Darktown better than us and I've never been this far deep here, Ketojan should stay in the back with others... their might be some Thugs down here and I'd rather avoid him being in a fight" Garrett said wisely.
Bethany glanced at Ketojan saying "I think that's a good idea, we don't even know if he can fight in that state," Varric spoke up saying "if only we had Mr. Broody here, he knows some of their language... I'm not sure if Horn Head here even fully understands what's happening." Merrill shifted uncomfortably from where she stood saying "it's not because of me is it... Fenris doesn't seem to like me very much."
Suddenly Isabela put an arm around her saying "don't worry Kitten! Mr. Broody glares at almost everyone and mostly at Anders." Merrill laughed lightly at that as Anders glanced at Isabela saying "thanks for that Isabela I was hoping he'd just ignore me like he does with Bethany." "Anyway, since you know Darktown best Anders, you take point with me" Garrett said as Anders nodded saying "I know a bit of this area anyway... I first met Cooper, one of my Helpers, on a level a bit higher than this one."
Garrett nodded as Anders and he took point with Varric following slightly behind them. Isabela, Merrill, and Bethany leading Ketojan from behind, poor creature, forced into that Collar and those Chains Bethany thought.
"I do wonder what happened to Fenris though, he usually meets us in the Hanged Man with everyone else" Bethany said a little curious because Fenris always seemed willing to work no matter the time. Isabela shrugged saying "I checked his Estate but he wasn't there," Merrill frowned saying "Varric told me a bit about him, how come Fenris almost ignores you Bethany?"
"You know... I'm not sure" Bethany said thinking aloud, Isabela suddenly chuckled saying "come on Bethany! You're Hawke's little Sister, you really think Fenris would be mean to you." Bethany glanced at Isabela confusingly saying "... Fenris is afraid of Garrett." Isabela rolled her eyes as she continued "it's not because he's afraid of Hawke it's because he owes him, you know that whole man code he seems to have." "Men have codes... but where do they all learn it... and how do they remember it" Merrill said genuinely curious as she frowned.
Isabela smiled saying "Kitten, they don't write it down they just follow it, and that's why Fenris ignores Bethany... that or he just wants to bed her." "Excuse me!" Bethany exclaimed annoyed, Isabela burst out laughed saying "just kidding Bethany, I just wanted to see your face, ah that was good." Isabela pretended to wipe a tear from eye saying "almost as good as that time at the Hanged Man when Hawke dragged you to the other side of the table after I whispered to you."
Bethany narrowed her eyes slightly in frustration at the amused look Isabela had given her, "hey! Hawke does that too sometimes" Merrill pointed out. Isabela chuckled at Bethany's look before getting serious again saying "... but seriously Fenris owes Hawke and so is nice... or as nice as he can be, hence mostly ignoring you." "What a strange way to be nice... ignoring people" Merrill said thoughtfully as she walked.
Turning to face Bethany, Merrill said "you're so lucky Bethany, it must wonderful to live with a Brother, a Mother, and an Uncle." Bethany smiled lightly, stroking the blue Scarf that she had gotten at Hightown today, saying "it is wonderful but Gamlen wasn't exactly wonderful at the start of things here." Merrill chuckled slightly saying "even still, I'd have loved to have had a brother like Hawke or a Sister," Isabela patted Merrill's Shoulder saying "it's okay Kitten, I'll be your Sister."
Just then Bethany noticed that Anders, Garrett, and Varric had stopped walking and were arguing with a group of Thugs ahead of where they were walking.
Of course, now matter how low we are this is still Darktown Bethany thought as she glanced at Isabela and Merrill wondering if they should help the others. Varric stood behind Garrett and Anders with his hand on his trusty Crossbow, Bianca, as Anders gripped his Staff and Garrett tired to talk the Thugs away but wasn't having much luck.
Ketojan suddenly walked past Bethany, Isabela, and Merrill surprising all of them as he seemed to be walking towards Garrett and Anders. "What, hold on Ketojan... Ketojan" Bethany called trying to not draw the Thugs attention towards them as the Qunari Mage walked on with Bethany and the others trying to stop him but to no avail. The Thugs had begun pulling out their weapons about to attack Garrett and Anders, Varric was beginning to aim, Anders had his Staff out and Garrett and quickly unsheathed his Longsword and Shield.
When suddenly Ketojan extended his right arm, his hand raised up, with a speed the others didn't think had, and a Blue Wave of Magical Energy pulsed out of his hand towards the Thugs about to fight Garrett, Anders, and Varric...
The Thugs got hit and they flew back from the force of the Wave, landing on the floor the Thug Leader said "Maker! What was that, kill them!" Garrett and the entire group was slightly stunned from Ketojan's action but quickly got over their surprise to fight the Thugs. Garrett rushed towards one of the Thugs and slit the man's throat before he even managed to get him from Ketojan's attack, Anders used Chain Lightning taking down two of them as Varric shot a Thug in his Left Eye, killing him.
While Ketojan summoned Magical Fire around him and warded the Thugs away, keeping them from getting to close as Isabela quickly threw one of her Daggers into the neck of a Thug. Bethany used Spirit Bolt to take down one of the Thugs as Merrill used a quick Fireball taking down one Thug and wounding another. The Thug that Merrill had wounded with her Fireball was the last one standing until Garrett rushed towards him and stabbed him in the Chest. Pulling his Longsword out of the Corpse and turning around Garrett saw that Ketojan still hadn't Dispelled his Fire.
"It's over Qunari! Ketojan! … whatever you want to be called! Calm Yourself!" Garrett called in a serious voice as the others stood a little back from Ketojan due to his Fire. Anders held up his hand while Bethany and Merrill did the same ready to Dispel Ketojan's Magic for him if needed.
But that's when Andres noticed something that made him very uneasy... Garrett had raised his arm as if he could Dispel Ketojan's Magic as well... but Non-Mages can't do that unless... no... unless they have Templar Training Anders thought uneasily. Before any of the group Dispelled Ketojan's Fire, he did it himself, lowering his arms as the Fire fizzled out, once the Fire was gone Ketojan growled slightly at them trying to speak.
Letting out a sigh of relief with the others, except Anders, Garrett said "did you attack because your Lead was threatened?" Ketojan simply Growled again like he only seemed capable of doing, "of course that's Horn Head's answer" Varric chuckled, as Anders looked at Garrett oddly from where he stood behind him. Isabela walked to the Corpse of one of the Thugs and pulled her Dagger back muttering "too bad all he does is growl."
Garrett rubbed the stubble on his chin that was starting to grow into a beard saying "I wonder how much of this is all just blind instinct for you Ketojan." Garrett lowered his hand from his Stubble saying "don't know if I hit the right phrase or something but you did what I asked." Ketojan's Growling being the only answer Garrett received, Merrill glanced at Ketojan saying "I know! He could gesture or stop his feet twice for yes and once for no!" Garrett chuckled at that as Ketojan Growled his simple Growl, well I'm fairly certain Ketojan doesn't like that idea but it was kinda funny he thought.
Isabela spoke up, humorously saying "he probably wants to go chasing after thrown sticks, and someone to rub his belly." Varric re-sheathed his Crossbow, Bianca, saying "for all we know Horn Head could be asking for a Chamber Pot." Garrett looked at Ketojan in the eye as best he could saying "alright just keep control alright, and remember we're on your side."
Bethany stepped towards Ketojan softly saying "we're trying to help, it's okay," it must be hard... being unable to speak probably she thought. Ketojan Growled as Garrett led the group like before, with Ketojan in the back with Bethany, Isabela, and Merrill. The rest of trip through the Undercity Warrens was simple with no more Thugs trying to rob them, though Garrett wasn't entirely certain, but he thought Anders kept glancing at him oddly...
Later,
Vimmark Mountain Pass
Garrett and Anders had just walked out of the entrance of Petrice's Passage with the others following, as they walked around a Corner towards Ketojan's Freedom they ran into something unexpected. A group of around Nine Qunari, their leader, a Qunari wearing a Helmet unlike the others, stood towards before Garrett could warn the others and Ketojan was visible. The Qunari Leader stepped forward speaking in a thick, gruff voice saying "you will hold Barsa Vashedan, I am Arvaarad and I claim possession of Saarebas at your heel." Sorry Ketojan... I'm not sure if you want to return to them or not... you just been following us Garrett thought glancing towards the Qunari Mage the group had been leading.
"The members of his Karataam were killed by Tal-Vashoth but their disposal lead only here, to Sarrebas and you" The Qunari Leader, Arvaarad, said while the other Qunari held their Weapons. Wait, what? That doesn't fit with what Petrice said... 'infighting between Tal-Vashoth' Arvaarad says the Tal-Vashoth killed his Karataam Garrett thought as he narrowed his eyes. "Listen I just got here, coming from the other way... if there was a Trail I didn't leave it" Garrett said sternly noticing how the Qunari looked ready to fight.
Arvaarad tilted his head saying "yet you are here with Saarebas! The crime is his Freedom, his leash held by unknowing Basra. We will not allow that danger to continue... let your own Mages doom you- Saarebas will be properly confined." Looking at Ketojan once again Garrett thought he's stayed with us so far... I don't think he wants to go with these Qunari also noticing that Anders was gripping his Staff and had moved to stand in-front of Ketojan.
Turning back to Arvaarad, Garrett said "and if he doesn't want to go back?" Arvaarad walked to stand in-front of Garrett then said "Saarebas! Show that your Will remains bound to the Qun!" Ketojan suddenly walked out from Anders and the others moving next to Garrett then Knelt down before Arvaarad.
Arvaarad gestured towards Ketojan saying "he has only followed you because he wants to be led, he is allowed no other purpose." "Is Saarebas his name, he's somewhat responded to Ketojan?" Varric asked in confusion at the different names the Qunari Mage seemed to have. Arvaarad glanced at Varric saying "Saarebas is his role and his name as you understand it. It is the accusation and acknowledgment of being a Mage."
Bethany and Merrill looked at Ketojan, Saarebas, with pity as Isabela gazed at how the Qunari were holding their Weapons. Roles... the Qunari are all about Roles... I'm not sure if they even have individual names Garrett thought as he said "Ketojan... Saarebas I mean, is bound and abused and yet you want him changed further, why?" Arvaarad tilted his head slightly, as if having to explain the simplest thing in the world to a dim witted child, saying "the power Saarebas has, that all Mages have draws from Chaos and Demons, they can never be in control."
"So you fear them" Garrett said accusingly as he crossed his arms and narrowed his eyes, Anders scoffed from where he stood, the part about Demons and Control hitting a nerve, saying "like so many others." Bethany frowned thinking the Chanty may fear Mages but not to the extent that Qunari do... we're not all bad, we can't people just see that. "We leash Saarebas because they are Dangerous and Contagious, not even your Templars fully grasp that threat" Arvaarad said sternly. Garrett, still with his arms crossed, said "you don't even care that someone abused your dead to get you here?"
Arvaarad shook his head saying "no doubt they were cast from your Shoulders as you or your partner Thieves grew weak, it's a crime who's Victim is beyond caring... it will be deal with but the greater threat is clear."
Turning to loom over Saarebas, Arvaarad continued "it is my role to secure Saarebas, it is the role of another to purge the perversion of your kind." Garrett stepped forward causing Arvaarad to step back, looking him in the eye Garrett said "I'm not giving him to you, if he goes he goes by his will, it's his Path to chose." Arvaarad returned Garrett's gaze saying "he wants what the Qun demands, he is nothing else!"
Then Arvaarad quickly pulled out a Golden Rod of somekind from his belt saying "you Basra! your kind have no sense but the opportunity for reason will be forced upon all of you at another time." Arvaarad lifted the Golden Rod up and it began glowing Blue from it's tip, Garrett gripped his Longsword and Shield but Arvaarad turned the Golden Rod on Saarebas.
Suddenly a Blue field surrounded Saarebas, keeping him Caged and unable to move. Arvaarad turned menacingly towards Garrett and the others saying "you will all be brought before the Qun!" Arvaarad signaled and the other Qunari moved towards Garrett and the group with their Weapons drawn.
Why! It didn't have to come to this Garrett thought as he unsheathed his Longsword and Shield, blocking a blow form Arvaarad. Varric quickly aimed and shot an Arrow at a Qunari... whom dodged it, Varric missed but the Arrow hit the Qunari behind him. The Qunari stumbled back but keeping going, Bethany used Cone of Cold to freeze three Qunari in place that had been trying to flank Varric. My Magic's stronger than normal Bethany thought as she glanced at Merrill, whom had shot a Fireball at two Qunari, killing them. Merrill glanced at Bethany noticing that her Magic was also stronger then usual, Bethany understood what was happening and gestured towards Anders so Merrill could understand, Anders was funneling energy towards them.
Garrett dodged a stab from a Spear and blocked another blow from Arvaarad as Isabela rushed forward to help him. Varric Sniped Arvaarad in his throat, I still got it he smugly thought, as Arvaarad stumbled from the hit and Garrett slit his throat with his Longsword. Merrill and Bethany worked together and shattered the Frozen Qunari, Isabela suddenly rushed to Garrett's aid, stabbing a Qunari in the neck then slit his throat.
Anders used a lot of his Magic casting Chain Lighting on two Qunari, wounding one and killing the other. Varric Sniped the Qunari wounded by Anders, Isabela back-stabbed one Qunari as Garrett blocked her flank with his Shield and stabbed one Qunari with his Longsword.
As Isabela moved to attack another Qunari with her Daggers she got punched in the face by her opponent and stumbled back from the force of the blow. Garrett rushed over and protected Isabela from being Speared with his Shield and barely dodged a Slash from a Longsword wielding Qunari. Garrett slammed his Shield into the Spear wielding Qunari causing him to stumble backwards, turning he used his Longsword to back another slash from the Longsword wielding Qunari, only for the Qunari to push forward anyway.
Garrett was forced to step backward, shifting his footing to better counter the Qunari's superior Strength, Garrett managed to keep standing and not get pushed to the ground. The Longsword wielding Qunari pushed further and Headbutted Garrett with a lot of force, winded from the blow and feeling blood on his forehead Garrett knew he couldn't stay like this or he'd die; but he still didn't fall and instead managed to slam his Shield into his opponents face.
The Longsword wielding Qunari was pushed back from Garrett's Shield as Garrett stumbled slightly a little dazed from the head-bud. Isabela, have gotten up, blocked Garrett from his side as the Spear wielding Qunari tired to Spear him but only being forced back by Isabela almost stabbing the Qunari in the face. Suddenly a Blue Glow surrounded the Spear wielding Qunari and began slowing him down with force pressing him inward. Crushing Prison Garrett thought as he got over his dazed head, slamming his Shield into the Qunar,i whom had headbutted him, again. The Qunari stumbled back slightly but kept fighting.
Damn I forget how tough Qunari are Garrett thought as he kept fighting, having realized that the Qunari he was fighting had taken two slams from his Shield without falling. When suddenly Bethany cast Winter's Grasp on the Qunari that Garrett was fighting, covering the Qunari in ice and slowing him down, Varric shot the Qunari being crushed by Anders Magic.
The Qunari being crushed by Anders Magic and now shot in the back by Varric still wasn't dead and tired to continue fighting but Isabela got up and managed to stab him with both her Daggers, finally killing him. Garrett stabbed the slightly Frozen Qunari in the Chest as was Merrill about to hit him with Flame Magic, but stopped when she noticed Garrett had killed his opponent.
Good thing we had three Mages on our side, really made a World of Difference, those Qunari are tough.. tougher than the Tal-Vashoth, and even then without Maraas helping us prepare and joining us I'm not sure we'd have won Garrett thought seriously. Panting slightly Garrett glanced at Isabela whom nodded at him then gestured towards his forehead, raising his hand towards his forehead he felt blood but no too much. Bethany rushed towards her brother and tried to get a look at his forehead but Garrett turned to face Saarebas, whom had remained Caged in his blue field, still knelt as Garrett noticed Arvaarad's Golden Rod on the ground nearby.
"Let me see" Bethany said concernedly as she raised her hand towards her brother and began Healing his wound on his forehead as Garrett noticed that Anders was checking to make sure that no more Qunari were around.
"Damn Horn Heads eh Hawke" Varric said smirking slightly at the Hawke siblings, Garrett chuckled slightly saying "yeah those Horns hurt." Isabela spoke up saying "those Qunari Punches hurt thanks for the help Hawke," as Anders was using Healing Magic on her face. "That's enough for now Bethany, thanks" Garrett said as he patted his Sister's Shoulder and walked over to Arvaarad's Golden Rod and picked it up, looking at Saarebas still caged, Garrett did the same movement Arvaarad had done to Cage Saarebas causing the Blue Cage to fade away and Garrett dropped the Golden Rod as Saarebas was freed and stood up.
Saarebas seemed awkward as a part of the Golden Mask, that he was forced to wear, appeared to open up allowing him to speak. Turning to face Garrett, Saarebas spoke in thick, gravelly, and strained voice... as if it had been quite some time since he had spoken aloud. "I am... unbound. Odd... wrong... but you deserve honor... you are now Basvaarad, worthy of following, I thank your intent even if it was... wrong" Saarebas said as the rest of the group seemed slightly surprised at his speaking.
Anders smiled brightly and walked towards Saarebas saying "your free now my friend, you don't have to worry about being Chained anyway." "I thank your intent as well but I have no friends" Saarebas said as he walked past Garrett and Anders towards a nearby Cliff. "I know the Will of the Arvaarad, of the Qun, I must return as demanded... it is the wisdom of the Qun" Saarebas said stopping to stand near the edge of the Cliff.
Stunned, Garrett and Anders followed Saarebas as Garrett said "what do you mean, after all of this... and now you want to die?" "I do not want to die, I want to live by the Qun" Saarebas explained simply as he gazed at the area from where he stood near the edge of the Cliff. "Which means Dying! You can't be serious!" Anders exclaimed shaking his head in frustration as he, just as Garrett, stood behind Saarebas.
Not turning around to face them Saarebas simply replied said "yes, is that so hard to grasp?" Bethany frowned confused at Saarebas's logic as Merrill glanced at Isabela saying "why is he like this?" The Qunari respect strength Garrett thought as he stepped closer saying "Arvaarad couldn't kill me, perhaps he was wrong about your death too." Anders was about to add to what Garrett had said but Saarebas replied before he could speak, "losing to you does not make him wrong... he spoke the Qun, I have Choice, it is bred in the bone" Saarebas said.
Anders stepped forward exclaiming "Existing isn't a choice! You didn't chose what happened to you... what you were born with! You shouldn't be punished for something you had no control over." Saarebas tilted his head towards Garrett and Anders saying "it is the only Choice, Asit tal-eb, in your tongue 'it is to be' is it so hard to grasp?"
Bethany stepped forward to stand next to her brother and Anders saying "others Qunari have lived outside the Qun, one of their Camps was taken out but there are still others out there, you could join them." Saarebas turned to face Bethany and spoke with a hint of anger, "they are NOT my kind, I am Qunari... they are not." "They have chosen Freedom, to be free, not all of them are Outlaws some just mind there own business" Garrett said remembering how Maraas had explained it Yesterday.
"Free? They have refused what they are! I... can't chose to 'not be' I simply cannot." Merrill spoke up saying "that lady, Petrice might take you back," "the Sister was not honest, I cannot say what she wanted but it was not of the Qun... and her Guard smelled of Death, be wary of her" Saarebas replied.
Garrett rubbed the back of his neck saying "could you have returned if we hadn't killed Arvaarad and his Soldiers?" "No" Saarebas simply replied no longer facing any of the group. Varric spoke up saying "seriously Horn Head, you were doomed from the start?"
Lowering his head slightly, as if in shame, Saarebas answered "I was outside my Karataam, I may be corrupted... I cannot know but how I return is my choice." Anders grew angry exclaiming "of all the Ridiculous! Spineless! Mind-Controlled! Senseless! Piece of Shit Arguments I've ever heard!" Calming down slightly Anders said "listen you can come with me, I can hide you with me in my Clinic in Darktown, I already have Helpers who would gladly help you." "No. What comfort has freedom brought you, Mage. You would have more if you submitted to the Qun" Saarebas answered causing Anders to cross his arms in frustration.
Garrett shook his head sternly saying "I can't let this decision stand, don't kill yourself... go with Anders he can help you stay hidden in Darktown." Saarebas turned around to face Garrett saying "if you force choice it is not choice, your doubt does not make me wrong. Certainty is comfort, this is the way of the Qunari... the way of the Qun, remember this day."
Suddenly Saarebas lifted both his arms summoning Flame Magic that completely engulfed his body... the group watch in horror as Saarebas burned alive without making a sound... no cries of agony, no yells... only the sound of his flesh burning...
Bethany suddenly took a step towards Saarebas with her hand raised, ready to dispel the Flame Magic burning the poor Qunari Mage alive. When Garrett grabbed her by the arm and pulled her back towards him before she accidentally got burned saying "... he's gone Bethany, he's gone... I'm sorry." Anders frowned sadly as he too stepped back not wanting to get accidentally burned from all the Flame Magic as Merrill gaped behind them.
Saarebas slumped to the ground, dead from his many burns as the Flame Magic faded away... the group watched the dead form of Saarebas in silence for a moment.
"There's... there's no words... poor Saarebas" Bethany sadly as her eyes watered slightly as Merrill spoke up saying "that's not right." Isabela got an odd look in her eye saying "but he was free..." "Petrice may not have known about this but she clearly set a trail right to us!" Garrett said to the group as Anders faced Garrett saying "if this was her doing, I have question for her!" "She set this up for, I say we find out why" Varric said turning away from the sight of Saarebas's Corpse...
Lowtown
Back in Petrice's Safe House
Garrett opened the door to Petrice's Safe House and walked in followed by Anders, Isabela, Bethany, Merrill, and Varric. Just as they entered Garrett heard Petrice telling Varnell "leave nothing, it must be clean with no ties, it..." Petrice turned noticing them. Petrice seemed verysurprised to see Garrett as she said "Hawke? From the streets?" You... took the Qunari from the city? Without incident?"
"Without bloody incident? You know better" Isabela snapped crossing her arms. "Mind your tongue woman" Varnell said coldly from where he stood beside Petrice. "Don't pretend, you know better" Bethany said as Merrill said "you know we know," and Anders said "you knew what we'd face" Varric scoffed saying "seriously we all know the incident was all your idea."
Garrett narrowed his eyes sternly saying "the bodies of the Mage's Karataam led right to us, why?" Petrice scowled saying "you come back speaking their language and think to lecture me, if such a plot existed, if the Qunari murdered you for trying to help their Slave Mage. Then yes, someone might have found that useful... it would have cast doubt on appeasement, perhaps your death would have been a tragic necessity. Perhaps finding the Mage was a rushing opportunity but all we have now are dead Qunari and the word of a Sympathizer." "Ketojan killed himself rather than be free" Anders snarled at Petrice causing Varnell to put a hand on his Longswords. Petrice glanced at Anders saying "I assumed he wanted to escape just as I would, my pity is genuine but Qunari are not like us."
"If? Perhaps? Why do you dance around your lie?" Garrett said still with his eyes narrowed. "If a member of the Chantry admitted instigation, I have no doubt it would result in more appeasement... but accusation from Lowtown Thugs... you are hardly that important; that's not an insult. It's why I chose all of you, rest assured, excuses, real or imagined are not for your benefit" Petrice said crossing her arms. "I won't forget this Sister Petrice" Garrett said coldly, a little annoyed at being called Lowtown Thugs. Petrice tossed another Coin Pouch at Garrett, whom caught it, "take your coin, disappear back into Lowtown," Petrice said.
Sister Petrice and Varnell started walking towards the exit saying "rest assured I will not make the mistake of looking for help outside the Faithful again." As Petrice and Varnell left, they heard Petrice say "the stakes... Eternity... are just too high."
"That one will be back, unfortunately" Isabela said as Garrett and the others left the Safe House, and walked back into Lowtown. The Hawke siblings said their goodbyes as the group went their separate ways... just as they left Garrett couldn't help but notice that Anders had glanced at him warily he seems suspicious of me... why he thought.
"Is your Forehead okay?" Bethany asked as she walked with Garrett towards Gamlen's House, "think I'll have a bruise but I'm fine thanks to your Healing" Garrett said feeling his Forehead. "First you stand in front of an Arrow and now a Headbutt from a Qunari, really Garrett" Bethany sighed as they reached the front door to Gamlen's House. "It's not like I plan these things, I just do what I have to, saved Fenris from that Arrow, took a Headbutt so I wouldn't get slashed" Garrett said lightly as he opened the front door and walked in.
As they walked inside and closed, locked the door and got ready for bed Garrett asked Bethany "how are you holding up? With Saarebas I mean?" Bethany stopped mid-walk, taking her hand off the Door handle of the room that she shared with Leandra and turning to face her brother Bethany said "... it's just hard, seeing how the Qunari treat and manipulate their Mages."
"I know what you mean... Saarebas just had to live by the Qun, even though he was treated horribly... I never really thought there was a fate worse than the Circle" Garrett said thoughtfully. "I wish there was more we could have for Saarebas... taking him with us or with Anders" Bethany said as Garrett nodded saying "I know." "It's been a odd day, goodnight Brother" Bethany said as she entered the room she shared with Leandra, ready to sleep. "Night Bethany" Garrett said as he opened the door to the room where Gamlen usually slept, noticing Gamlen collapsed on the bed and snoring he sighed thought well another night on the floor.
Darktown
Anders's Clinic
"Something wrong Anders, you seemed bothered by something" Cooper said as Anders sat on his makeshift bed rubbing his Chin. "Could be nothing... and if not... I think there might be a good reason for it... or at least I hope" Anders said turning to face his trusty assistant Cooper.
Anders reached into the pocket of his Tunic and pulled out a small Bell Collar and rubbed his finger along it, still looking thoughtful. "I've never seen you with that, what is it?" Cooper asked noticing that the Bell Collar seemed to be made for small Animals but as far as he knew they're weren't any Cats or Dogs in the Clinic.
Anders snapped out of it saying "hmm, oh this thing," Anders held up the Bell Collar for Cooper to see causing a small jingle to be heard. Smiling Anders said "it was a Gift... from an old friend of mine, it's not important." Bringing it back down and rubbing his fingers along the Bell Collar Anders said "you should go home Cooper, I'll fine with David outside and it's pretty late" Anders said dismissing his trusty assistant.
Cooper nodded then left saying "alright, whatever it is you're worried about I'm sure you can handle it." Anders waved as Cooper left then continued to rub the Bell Collar as he thought.
Saarebas killed himself rather than be free of the Qun... they Chained up him yet he didn't care. The Qunari fear Mages more than the Chantry does... what if the Chantry one day becomes more like Qunari and they Chaining us up like poor Saarebas. If only people could see that not all Mages are bad, that most of us are like average people... and earlier when Saarebas was warding the Thugs away with Flame Magic... why did Hawke raise his hand like that... as if too Dispel it. I think I'll talk to Hawke about it... but if he's learned Templar skills... why would he even want to... his little Sister's a Mage after all. I trust Hawke whatever his reasons for learning Templar skills he'd never harm his Sister, he's even fought Templars beside me in the Chantry of all places Anders mused.
Well, again sorry if this Chapter was a bit long...
The beginning part with the Crewe Sisters and Garrett and Aveline's Sparing Match was just something I really wanted to write
I always felt that, while Ketojan's Death was dramtic, it didn't have good reactions, what'll you think of my take to it
But I digress...
Thanks for Reading and please Review