Hey Guys
Why it's taken so long to update? I really started my college year in the University of Science
Also another note I've begun to fix some of earlier chapters
Just simply things like grammar but at times I've added some small changes but in terms of story all the events are still the same
I'll start updating my older chapters with the fixed ones within the coming week.
But Digress...
Enjoy
Darktown
Lower Level
Ignacio Strand stood watching the remnants... the bodies of the thugs lying about as his men looted their bodies. "I never like his work. He always leaves such a mess" Athenril said from where she stood beside Ignacio also watching the mess Leech had made.
"The freak does his job. Who cares how he does it" Dixon Carton said glancing around the 'mess' that Leech had so viciously made. "You're not the one who has to clean up after him. If this was Hightown the Templars would hunting like mad" Athenril said scoffing as she started to pace back and forth watching as Ignacio's men the Sharp Gang members along with her men inspected the bodies.
Dixon glared at Athenril the only Elf and a woman at that who dared speak to him like that but before he could reply Ignacio spoke up silencing both of them. "These men... who were they? They don't belong to an enemy branch yet knew were to attack our Tevinter contacts" Ignacio said sizing the corpses up looking at their armor... the armor that Leech had ripped through.
Not even turning to look or so much as glance at him in the distance Athenril coldly called out "Dog. Learn anything?" Tolan stood up from where he'd had been crouching to examine a corpse and turned to face Athenril stoically saying "no. I've no idea who's these men are."
"Whoever they are the other Coterie branches will send more of them. Be sure to leave one of them alive next time" Ignacio said studying Longsword that had belonged to a corpse.
Turning to Dixon and giving him an intent look Ignacio said "spare whatever men you can and add them to the Guard around our Tevinter contacts." "You already have some of your men guarding them. Let the freak guard the Slavers" Dixon said shrugging.
"Leech isn't our only use for the Slavers. We have good business with them; our leaders want them look after so do it" Ignacio said giving a Dixon a cold look causing Dixon to stay silent and nod. "How many Slavers survived the attack" Athenril asked looking at Tolan. "Three" Tolan answered from he was examining a body in the background as he remembered seeing the three Tevinter Slavers being sent away for healing escorted by some of Athenril's goons.
"Only three of the Slavers held out until Leech arrived. These men aren't common thugs we need to learn who they are" Ignacio said talking more to himself. Just then Leech spoke up getting everyone's attention and stopping all of them in their tracks despite the lowness of his voice.
"One of them is still alive" Leech said in his odd icily cold low voice, the voice of man who rarely spoke... almost feral just like the rest of him. All of them turned to look at Leech at his words. They watched as he finished 'feeding' from where he crouched next to a pile of bodies then rose stiffly... but unnervingly silent. "One of them is still alive" Ignacio parroted just as Leech turned to look at something a few feet from where Tolan stood.
One of the corpses a few feet from Tolan suddenly rose... frantically making a run for it... the man was never dead just pretending. Ignacio shouted "stop him!" Dixon was about to swear as Athenril reached for her knife and Tolan made to chase the survivor down when the man was suddenly stopped in his tracks by something... unseen.
The survivor yelped as he was yanked back falling to the floor then forcefully dragged past Tolan and towards Leech.
Tolan watched as the survivor struggled unsuccessfully against Leech's magic before finally stopping a few feet from Ignacio's men the Sharps. Ignacio gestured to two of his men saying "grab him."
Two Sharps men rushed giving Leech a wide berth awkwardly avoiding his gaze as the reached down and grabbed the survivor pulling him up by his arms causing a knife to fall from his belt.
"Playing dead? You really thought that would work?" Dixon said mockingly as he stepped closer and looking at the knife before continuing "thought you could get the jump on someone when they started cleaning up." He didn't think things through... can't say I wouldn't have tried the same in his shoes though Tolan thought as he watched Ignacio approach the now helpless survivor.
"Why don't you save us some time and tell us who you people are. I know you're not Coterie" Ignacio coldly said standing directly in-front of the survivor. The survivor looked at Ignacio trembling slightly but shook his head 'no' saying "you'll kill me anyway."
Ignacio gestured to his man holding the survivor's right arm. The Sharps man nodded then tightened his grip on the survivor's arm and preceded to bend it backwards slowly breaking the bone. The survivor started breathing heavily before letting out a harsh cry as his right arm was slowly breaking.
"This can end. All this depends on you" Ignacio said casually as he gestured for his man to stop before he broke the survivor's arm completely. The survivor let out heavy breathes lowering his head not looking at Ignacio then shook his head 'no' once again. With another gestured from Ignacio the Sharps man finished his job and completely broke the survivor's arm in a sickening snap causing the man to cry out in pain.
"A lot of loyalty for a hired sword" Ignacio said annoyed as the survivor still keep silent not even looking at Ignacio. Just then Ignacio noticed his men stiffen slightly when suddenly Leech stepped past him in his strange quite yet forceful way of his that that unnerved him.
Leech stopped right in front of the survivor calmly saying "look at me." The survivor trembled slightly but kept his head down. Leech gently placed his hand on the survivor's shoulder speaking in his feral like voice only colder as he said "LOOK AT ME."
The survivor flinched trembling as he slowly raised his head to face Leech. Ignacio watched impressed as the survivor looked at Leech and suddenly changed… his eyes going plain with an empty look in them.
The survivor relaxed not even trying to resist anymore and strangely seeming to forget that his arm was broken as he faced Leech as if all will was lost. "Who are you people?" Leech asked removed his hand with the Sharps men holding the survivor exchanged a warily look not sure what had happened. The survivor blinked before speaking… his voice calm having lost any fear… yet devoid of any emotion at all.
"We're Red Iron Mercenaries. Meeran never told us who hired us for this job but some of the guys thought it was a branch of the Coterie" the survivor said in his dull voice seemingly empty in tone.
Dixon Carton spoke up saying "cowards! Not even bothering to send their men anymore! We should hit another base let them now their time is done." Athenril shifted as Ignacio glanced at Dixon saying "you don't run the show Dixon remember your place."
"Meeran could be useful we shouldn't take his group out if we don't have to" Athenril said thoughtfully as she gave Ignacio a serious look. "Friend of yours?" Ignacio said crossing his arms looking at Athenril curiously. "Meeran and I have crossed paths a few times with mixed results. You know how it is Ignacio... friendships and grudges can be bad for business" Athenril said glancing at Dixon who scoffed clearly annoyed.
Ignacio rubbed his chin considering it for a moment before looking at Athenril saying "you know of him then, good. Send him a warning for a now. If this happens again we'll take out his entire group."
Athenril nodded gesturing to her two bodyguards, as Athenril left she gestured to Tolan saying "help them with the mess." Tolan glanced back at the survivor just as Ignacio gestured at Leech and moved on to speak with Dixon.
The Sharps men holding the survivor released him and stepped aside as Leech said two simple words "kill yourself." The survivor didn't even hesitate as he reached down and scooped up the knife he'd dropped earlier then brought it up against his throat and killed himself.
The survivor slumped to the floor with a heavy thud his throat cut open by his own hand as Leech crouched down... Tolan looked away. I didn't realize he could do that... this could be a problem Tolan thought as he moved on to help the Athenril's clean up crew.
As Tolan and the clean up crew and Ignacio busy with Dixon talking Leech 'fed' before suddenly stopping to no one's notice. Leech stood and turned looking towards something in the distance watching him. There in the distance stood a young boy watching Leech unblinkingly with a blank controlled look about him. The young boy looked at Leech before turning around and vanishing behind a corner. An odd one that young boy... an Urchin.
Much Later
Anders's Clinic
"You didn't know Blood Mages could mind control people?" Garrett said from he was leaning against a wall raising an eyebrow as Anders rubbed his chin watching Tolan's reaction from where he sat on his stool next to working bench.
"No not all of us have a Mage for a sister" Tolan said sternly as he faced Garrett slightly annoyed. "My sister isn't a Blood Mage" Garrett said sternly not liking what Tolan was implying as Anders spoke up saying "not all of Apostates resort to using Blood Magic." Tolan shrugged saying "no offense Healer but most do." "Just how many Apostates have you actually met that are Blood Mages?" Anders said facing Tolan.
"Only met one. Heard of quite a few and I'm pretty sure that Elf friend of yours and Hawke's is one too" Tolan said looking at the both of them. Before Anders could speak up Garrett interrupted looking at Tolan and Anders saying "that's not important right now. What else should we know about Leech?"
Tolan thought for a bit before saying "... he's strong. Really strong." Anders spoke up rubbing his chin saying "if the legends are true he's been using Blood Magic for years... he would be strong."
Garrett looked at Tolan exchanging a glance before saying "is there no way we could send the Templars after him. It could make things easier." Tolan shook his head saying "no I don't think so. He's protected and the four could find out who tipped the Templars off."
"Even then those legends say he's killed a lot of Templars... you said he 'collects pieces of their armor' right" Garrett said rubbing the back of his neck. Tolan nodded saying "I've done some more recon and from what I can tell the four are doing something to keep the Templars busy but I've no idea what."
"Don't look him in the eyes" Anders said causing both Tolan and Garrett to look at him curiously, Garrett raising an eyebrow as Tolan's lips twitched in that odd way they did sometimes. "Blood Mages can only control you if they have eye contact" Anders said seriously as he got an odd look about him as if he was remembering something.
Back in the Blooming Rose with Idunna when did that thing to me and Fenris... she stalled to make eye-contact with us Garrett thought in realization. Anders noticed the way Tolan was looking at him and defensibly continued "I don't use Blood Magic but I've encountered Blood Mages before okay."
"For right now we don't have worry about Leech we're just hitting some hovels and disrupting the four. Taking away their manpower" Garrett said seriously as he rubbed the stubble on his chin that was almost a beard. "Take away the Coterie branch's infrastructure. It's a good plan" Anders said.
"Ranger/Scout tactics. Weaken the enemy so the large forces can do the rest with the big battles everyone talks about and remembers" Garrett said facing Tolan directly whom nodded smirking slightly which looked odd due to his scar.
"We'll meet up at the Lowtown Marketplace. I know it's taken awhile Tolan but it was worth it. We know where to hit" Garrett said as he stepped away from the wall straightening up. "Be ready at nightfall" Tolan said nodding as he got ready to take his leave of them only for Garrett to stop him. "Tolan" Garrett said causing the man stop in his tracks just as he was about raise his hood.
"I'm going to tell Aveline some more of the plan" Garrett said simply causing Tolan to shake his 'no' saying "she can wait." "She can be more useful than you think. If Aveline can find the corrupt Guards while we're weakening the four it'll make things easier when go for Ignacio" Garrett said simply as Anders spoke saying "he has a point Tolan. Theirs power in numbers."
Tolan shared a look with Garrett before saying "fine I couldn't do this without you and your friends anyway." Garrett nodded as Tolan raised his hood covering his face as he turned around leaving Anders's Clinic.
"You really got Fenris to help out?" Anders asked after Tolan had left. Garrett nodded saying "I wasn't even sure he was still in Kirkwall but he said he'll help." "Well another hour or so of ignoring his cold stares you'd think he'd gotten over that with all the time we spent in the Deep Roads" Anders said lightly.
"It's the whole Tevinter thing" Garrett said rubbing the back of his neck. "Don't worry we've worked together before we can do it again" Anders said calmly. "Glad it's not just Tolan and me anymore" Garrett said as he got ready to leave. "See you at Lowtown" Garrett said as he waved leaving Anders's Clinic.
Hightown
Hawke Estate
"Are you sure about this Garrett?" Aveline said from where she stood across from him in the downstairs of his ancestral home. "You're not wearing your City Guard armor and besides what's suspicious about visiting a friend" Garrett said noting Aveline's simple shirt and trousers.
"No I suppose it's not. It's just odd knowing I'm... we're targets" Aveline said shifting slightly as if uncomfortable.
"I know what you mean but we're not alone Aveline." Garrett said giving his friend a reassuring look as he continued "before we were safe because you're a Senior Officer and I'm a Noble. The ambush failed and now I think they got bigger things to deal with than revenge for Jeven."
"You know I've wondered about that. At that ambush a few days ago I wasn't the main target... Scully was" Aveline said thinking aloud. Garrett raised an eyebrow as Aveline continued "I think they just took advantage of the fact I WAS there. Two jobs in one go." Aveline shifted slightly before facing Garrett saying "regardless what did you want to tell me?"
"I argued with my friend about this but I think we should help you" Garrett simply and honestly. Aveline blinked saying "help me what?" "Help you find the corrupt Guards" Garrett answered simply.
Aveline stood silent for a moment taken aback by before asking "how did you know about that." Garrett shrugged saying "I know you. You wouldn't sit and do nothing you'd try and uncover the corrupt Guards." Aveline nodding thinking about it for a moment then said "you're right Garrett I'm trying to find them but it's a lot of digging and the Viscount's acting as Guard Captain giving me access no questions asked."
"Well it may not be much but the corrupt Guards are Dixon Carton's men. He won't be in your criminal files according to Varric he's managed to keep his hands mostly clean" Garrett said taking a step closer to Aveline.
Getting a somewhat annoyed look on her face Aveline said "how long have you known that?" Aveline let it drop in the end regardless saying "it's a start thanks Garrett. Is there anything else you can tell me?"
"According to my friend the new Coterie branch has someone who knows a lot about the workings of the city. One of their leaders apparently" Garrett said rubbing the back of his neck. "If only we knew who any of their leaders were" Aveline said dryly before continuing "thanks for the help Garrett." "Anytime" Garrett said as Aveline turned to leave but stopped midway to the door and turned around looking back him.
"How are you?" Aveline asked frowning and looking concerned at her friend.
Garrett looked at Aveline for a moment before saying "fine." "Garrett has anyone ever told you that you're a terrible lair" Aveline said walking forward still frowning at her friend. Garrett sighed and took a seat near the writing desk saying "so people tell me."
Aveline shifted as if uncomfortable from where she stood beside Garrett before saying "I don't think she blames you. It wasn't your fault and even if you'd been here you couldn't have stopped the Templars all by yourself." Garrett looked up at Aveline a serious look on his face as he said "you don't understand Aveline."
Looking away from Aveline with a far off look about him Garrett continued "I'm the eldest. When father was gone I had to man up and look after the family. I joined the Army for the coin and because I thought I could protect Carver."
"You did the best you could... if anything it's my fault I wasn't able to hold out against that Ogre" Aveline said seeing how Garrett was. "He wasn't your brother" Garrett said somberly as Kane suddenly stood up from where he'd been laying and moved to sit next to his master as if to reassure him.
Smart dog Aveline thought noticing how having Kane next to him made Garrett ease up a bit as he scratched his loyal dog's ear. Aveline frowned and let out a deep breath before saying "I don't have any siblings Garrett so I can't say from experience but I think you're a good brother. Bethany knew that and doesn't blame you." Reaching forward and reassuringly placing a hand on Garrett's shoulder Aveline continued "You did good Garrett. No one could have done more."
Garrett chuckled slightly saying "you know it's funny. When I was younger I didn't used to like Bethany."
Aveline blinked genuinely surprised by that. Still with that far off look about him Garrett said "I was just like any other kid. I wanted attention but my father spent so much time with Bethany. I was young and stupid so I hated her for getting all the attention."
"I'd try and impress my father but he hardly noticed. Then one day when I suppose to be was watching Bethany and Carver while my parents were shopping I started to practice dueling outside near the lake we fished at sometimes. Bethany and Carver just sat nearby watching me then something happened, I don't even remember how it happened but Bethany was playing with Carver and she fell in the lake."
Getting a serious face look on his face Garrett said "I shouted at Carver to get our parents and as he took off as I jumped into the lake. Bethany didn't know how to swim and she almost drowned by the time I got to her... I remember pulling her out as she coughed with watery eyes as I tried to dry her up as much as I could when father arrived."
Aveline just listened silently taking in the fact that there was once a time when Garrett might not have been such a good brother, it just seemed to be a part of him... she couldn't picture him not being the way he is now.
Looking up at Aveline frowning slightly Garrett said "father was furious with me. He yelled at me for being irresponsible as mom just took hold of Bethany making sure she was okay and drying her up but a funny thing happened... Bethany stood up for me."
Garrett laughed slightly saying "there she was a girl no older than seven telling our parents that it was her fault not mine. It really surprised me and as we went back home father pulled me aside telling me he was proud of me for pulling Bethany out of the lake."
Aveline smiled slightly at that realizing that that was the kind of thing Garrett would do even when he was younger. "Father told me he knew I was bitter that I didn't get as much attention anymore but he explained to me about why he needed to teach Bethany control and that I was eldest so I had look after my siblings."
"That really stuck with me. Later on I tried to explain that to Carver but he didn't get it as well as I did" Garrett said as he stood up removing Aveline's hand from his shoulder. Aveline looked at Garrett for a long moment even though he wasn't facing her then stoically said "you want to break her out don't you?"
Garrett didn't speak leaving the ancestral Amell home almost silent the only sound being the crackling of the lightly lit fireplace and the soft breathes of Kane as the Mabari watched his master as if knowing something was happening. Aveline stood there watching the back of Garrett as the silence dragged on until Garrett finally turned around looking directly in the eyes saying one simple word. "Yes."
Aveline gaped not saying anything before closing her mouth taking in that one simple world. "Maker! Hawke what are you thinking" Aveline exclaimed running a hand down her face.
When Garrett didn't say anything Aveline let out a heavy breath saying "Garrett... look... I won't stop you alright." "Thanks-" Garrett began only to be interrupted by Aveline crossing her arms saying "I don't exactly agree with you but... it's Bethany and she's a good person."
Garrett smiled lightly as Aveline continued "that and its Templar business not City Guard business." "I know you can't help me but I appreciate that Aveline" Garrett said honestly causing Kane to let out a happy bark looking at Aveline and Garrett in-turn. "When?" Aveline asked not looking at Garrett as she shifted awkwardly. "After this business with the Coterie is done" Garrett answered simply.
Sighing heavily then looking at her friend and frowning Aveline said "if it doesn't work I won't be able to help you... you'll be charged with-" only for Garrett to interrupt saying "I know." Another silence followed that moment as Garrett and Aveline shared a look.
"I'll look into Dixon Carton" Aveline said awkwardly changing the subject and breaking the silence. "I'll work from my end until my friend and I make a deal with the City Guard" Garrett said letting Aveline leave still a bit awkwardly.
Just before she left Aveline turned back to Garrett saying "... good luck." "Thanks" Garrett said waving as Aveline left. Just then a voice caught Garrett's attention from upstairs, "you're going out tonight aren't you?" Leandra said looking at her son from the stairs.
"I won't be alone, don't worry" Garrett said giving his mother a reassuring look. "It needs to be done mom. It's the right thing to do and I'll need my friend's help to break Bethany out" Garrett said honestly. "I wish I could help you more" Leandra said frowning as she walked down the stairs to better face her son.
"You do help mom. The Templars are still a little cautious about us even if they don't spy on us direct so it's good to be seen going about our lives in the higher class" Garrett said calmly. "I just feel guilty" Leandra said causing Garrett to raise an eyebrow. "Part of me likes this. Living as a Noble again and helping you with the Mining business and your investment" Leandra said not meeting her son's eyes.
"You grew up as a Noble. It's reminds you of that time again it's only natural" Garrett said reassuringly also knowing they both needed to do it. To appear normal in case anyone the Templars or the Coterie looked into them for whatever reason.
Leandra nodded looking more at easy before saying "you're right Garrett. Before I forget Hubert needed you to stop by and sign some papers for the new miners he hired."
"Probably more Ferelden I should make sure he pays them what they deserve... always tries to underpay the new miners" Garrett said as made to leave heading towards the Hightown Marketplace with Leandra and Kane trailing behind him.
Gallows
Circle of Magi
Library
It was a relatively busy day in the Circle Library as apprentices went through the book after book brushing up on their magic in hopes of impressing the 'guest' that would be arriving in a few short days, many of the apprentices sat studying in groups. Bethany Hawke however sat alone near a corner of the library pouring over books trying to find anything that help her for her harrowing.
I'm not sure how Orsino's stalling it or even why he's taken an interest in me but I'm grateful Bethany thought as she skimmed through yet another book sighing as she realized that yet again father had already taught her control along with the basics.
"Bethany right? The new girl?" a voice said suddenly getting Bethany's attention and startling her slightly but not allowing it to show as Bethany looked up seeing a girl around her age. "Yes that's me" Bethany said as she got a better look at the girl noticing that she was already an apprentice, a bit shorter than Bethany but slightly older and had auburn hair that went well the girl's light green eyes. "Maire" the girl said as she held out her hand for Bethany to shake.
"Can I join you?" Maire asked shaking Bethany's hand and glancing at the books Bethany had laid about the table in her attempt at brushing up. "Um okay" Bethany said slightly surprised by that... every other Mage she'd met so far had been nice enough but seemed to keep a bit of distance for some reason.
Maire sat down taking the seat across from Bethany as she said "trying to brush up for the Harrowing? You know that it'll be unexpected right... that's the whole point." Bethany shrugged saying "I can't just sit around waiting."
"Um excuse me but you're the first person to go out over their way to talk to me... everyone else is nice but keeps a distance?" Bethany asked not wanting to be rude but wondering all the same. Maire smirked saying "I was curious; you're the new girl people talk about."
Bethany frowned awkwardly saying "... people talk about me?" "Oh yeah. The new girl that avoided the Templars for almost decade. The new girl that was brought in by more than TWO DOZEN Templars led by Sir Cullen AND Sir Thrask" Maire said still smirking as she gestured at Bethany.
"That's a big deal?" Bethany asked blinking slightly and feeling uncomfortable at the way Maire talked about her being taken into the Circle. Maire chuckled saying "of course. Most of us were taken in not to long after showing signs of Magic." Leaning in Maire spoke in a low voice almost excited saying "I don't know of anyone being taken in by Templars led by two full blown Knights of the Order."
"I don't like to think about it" Bethany said frowning as she thought back to that night before forcing the thought of it away. "Either way it's earned you quite the reputation I mean it's impressive none of us avoided the Circle that long. How did you do it?" Maire asked curiously.
"I just moved around a lot" Bethany answered before frowning slightly then continuing "why did you say almost a decade?" Maire shrugged as she leaned into her seat relaxing a bit as she lightly said "you know how it is. One day when you're around ten or twelve you do something that's not natural and you find out it's Magic the day the Templar take you in."
Smiling slightly trying to find common ground Maire asked "so when did you discover you were a Mage? ten? twelve? thirteen? fourteen's the latest I've heard of. No wait there was a guy awhile go who discovered it when he sixteen so that's the latest."
"I don't remember it too much but when I was three-" Bethany began only for Maire to interrupt scoffing as she said "don't be a show off. When did you really discover Magic?"
"I'm not showing off I really was three when-" only for Bethany to be interrupted again by Maire sighing as she made a dramatic impression of boredom saying "fine don't tell." Bethany almost narrowed her eyes at that but stopped herself not wanting to be rude the only 'friend' she seemed to have made so far.
"Anyway Bethany we're not supposed to help non-apprentices but if you want to brush up you need to learn which books to get. Ask around for Tobrius to help you. He helped organize the entire library a long time ago with the other enchanters when they need a bigger room for it anyone sometimes he helps newcomers" Maire said giving Bethany a somewhat sympathetic look we've all been through this before.
"Thanks for the advice. I don't suppose you could help prepare?" Bethany asked already knowing the answer but wanting to ask anyway. Maire sadly shook her head saying "sorry Bethany we're all told by Templars not to talk about the Harrowing besides there's a few of them watching right now."
Bethany nodded having noticed the five Templars in the library when she first walked in. Maire stopped up saying "well you ever get lost or anything come find me and I'll show around. Sorry about this but I gotta back to work helping the Tranquil not that I mind helping out a fellow Mage every now and then when I'm on break." "Thank you I'll keep that in mind" Bethany said watching Maire leave before deciding to take Maire's advice and ask around for Tobrius.
Asking a few of the librarians Bethany learned that Tobrius was in the Ancient Runes section looking for a book. Upon finding the Ancient Runes section of the library she spotted an older Mage of higher rank than the others there.
The older man was wearing better silk robes than the apprentices along with a matching cowl as he appeared to be looking for something. That must be him Bethany thought as she approached. "Excuse me are you Tobrius?" Bethany asked now standing behind the older Mage of higher rank.
"Yes how can I help you?" Tobrius asked turning around to look at Bethany. "Hello I'm Bethany the new girl and I was hoping you could show some better books to brush up on" Bethany began before stopping as she noticed the odd way Tobrius was looking at her... or rather her eyes.
"The new girl... what was your name again?" Tobrius asked still looking at Bethany in that odd way. "Bethany" she answered only for Tobrius to respond "your full name." Bethany narrowed her eyes slightly as she slowly said "Bethany Hawke."
Tobrius suddenly seemed to change, his quiet and calm demeanor from before disappearing as his eyes widened saying "awe... I had not expected this." Before Bethany could say anything Tobrius gestured for her to follow him as he dropped what he was doing saying "I doubt the harrowing will be too difficult for you but I know some things that might help."
"Um thank you" Bethany said curious as she followed Tobrius grateful he was helping her but wondering why he seemed to be going out of his way to do so. Reaching a section of the library Bethany had seen before but had noticed many apprentices seemed to find boring Tobrius stopped before running his fingers along the books and pulling one out.
"Many of our younger apprentices find this boring. Only interested in big spells and nonsense but this is more useful than most people even our kind realize" Tobrius said handing her the single book. Bethany took the book Tobrius and read the title History of the Fade: A study of Magi.
"The Fade?" Bethany asked looking at Tobrius seeing him nod saying "yes above all us study this but don't let the Templars know I gave you this. We're not supposed to help the new comers." Tobrius said as he walked away. Bethany held the book looking at over before calling out to Tobrius honestly saying "thank you for helping you... I know you weren't supposed to."
Tobrius turned around the smallest of a smile forming on his face as he looked back at Bethany's dark blue eyes saying "it's no trouble. You remind me of a friend I had many years ago before he left."
And with that Tobrius turned around leaving as Bethany stood there thinking that over and gaped slightly as realization struck her.
Late Night
Lowtown
Garrett Hawke stood in the empty Back Alleys with the others, Tolan, Anders and Fenris as they looked at the somewhat larger than ordinary hovel. "That's it. Remember we can't leave anyone left we need to take them all out" Tolan said looking the hovel over as he put on his 'borrowed' Raider Mask with Garrett nodding saying "it'll be easier with the four of us instead of just you and me."
"Yeah. I must say Hawke you've speed things up quite nicely" Tolan said smirking slightly. "Power in numbers" Garrett said looking at Anders and Fenris in turn glad that they'd decided to help.
Anders gripped his staff saying "it'll be good to clean up the streets a bit." Fenris just stayed silent for a moment before saying "why hasn't the City Guard done this already?"
"They didn't know Fenris. It took a long time for Tolan to find out and even then we had to time it right" Garrett said glancing at Tolan before looking at Fenris. Looking at the entrance to the hovel Garrett calmly said "Fenris."
Nodding as he walked forward unsheathing his Fighting Greatsword Fenris put his weight into the blow as he smashed the door in. Garrett and Tolan rushed in after Fenris with Anders following closely behind as shouts of surprise echoed across the large Sharps owned hovel.
Moving quickly Garrett unsheathed his Longsword and Shield taking in the scene before him seeing all eleven Sharps men spread around the hovel. One Sharps men tried to reach for a Longsword he'd apparently set down on the table only for Fenris to reached him.
The Sharps man didn't even finish his yelp of fear as Fenris killed him with a heavy slash against his chest. Another Sharps man had unsheathed a Greatsword and rushed towards Garrett aiming for his head with heavy swing.
Garrett raised his Shield blocking the Greatsword with heavy thump slightly pushing Garrett back only for him to push back with all his weight and slam his Shield into the Sharps man. The Sharps man stumbled back his Greatsword lowered as Garrett rushed and slashed his Longsword silting the Sharps man's throat. Tolan moving quickly met a Longsword wield Sharps man head on with his Longsword and Dagger.
Tolan dodged a slash from the Sharps man and sidestepped using his Longsword to bat the Sharps man back giving him an opening as he rushed forward slashing with his Longsword. The Sharps man blocked Tolan's Longsword but forgot his Dagger as Tolan got in close and stabbed in Sharps man directly in the heart.
Anders scanned the fight around the hovel seeing two Sharps man trying to get a good distance away having picked up their Bow and Arrows. Raising his staff Anders aimed over Fenris's head casting a hurried Chain Lightning.
The bright blue Lightning soared through the air going over Fenris's head and striking one Sharps Archer before 'jumping' to the next. Both Archers fell over dead their plans of sniping Garrett and the others having been futile in the end.
Garrett blocked a slash with his Longsword and putting his weight behind it slammed his Shield into a Sharps man pushing him against the wall of the Sharps hovel. Garrett dodged the Sharps man's clumsy swings then rushed in slashing the Sharps man right across the chest with his Longsword.
Turning with his Shield raised to block anything if needed Garrett looked around seeing a Sharps man make a run for the back entrance. "Anders the back!" Garrett called out glancing at Anders whom nodded and hurriedly cast Stone Fist. Instantly an incorporeal green fist with stone like texture shot from Anders's staff and smashed into the Sharps man making a run for it causing him to fall the floor as if tackled.
Casting a quick Spirit Bolt Anders finished off the Sharps man just as Fenris took on a surviving Sharps man that had picked up a Greatsword. Garrett had taken down two more Sharps men when he noticed Tolan having trouble with Battleax wielding Sharps man wearing heavy armor.
Tolan had managed to slash his opponent multiple times with his Dagger but none of them deep enough to give him an opening. Garrett moved to help just as Tolan was being forced into a corner unable to get close enough but still managing to dodge or block.
Garrett reached them just as Tolan narrowly dodged a slash aimed at his neck. Slamming his Shield in the Sharps man's side freeing up Tolan just as Garrett managed to get in close. Using his Longsword Garrett aimed for the small opening in the heavy armor and slit the Sharps man's throat.
Garrett stepped back as the Sharps man fell over dead the heavy armor clanking loudly as it hit the floor. Tolan moved to stand beside Garrett saying "thanks... I had him though" Garrett glanced at Tolan lightly saying "sure you did."
Anders shot another Stone Fist at the Sharps man Fenris was fighting given the Elf the opening he needed as he preceded to stab the man through the chest. Garrett and Tolan both made for the last surviving Sharps man as he clumsily slashed with his Longsword trying to bat them away.
Tolan dodged a slash as Garrett rushed and banged his Shield into the Sharps man pushing him back. Garrett blocked another clumsy slash as Tolan rushed and stabbed the Sharps man in the heart. "All clear" Garrett called seeing all the Sharps men dead as Tolan pulled out his Dagger then used the dead man to clean the blade.
Fenris looked at Garrett nodding as Anders lowered his staff and stepped towards them saying "none of them escaped we got them all." Garrett walked towards the table in the center of the Sharps hovel seeing the chest laying there. Tolan, Anders, and Fenris all moved to stand beside Garrett as he opened the chest revealing a large amount of coin inside.
"I don't know much of the Coterie but that looks like more coin than I'd think they'd have in place like this" Fenris said tilting his head at the coin. "It one of the reasons a lot of lower criminal bosses joined the new branch... they pay more than the other branches" Tolan said glancing at Fenris.
"We can't go after the source like the Red Iron Mercenaries tried to but we can cut off some of the supply to the lower thugs... the manpower" Garrett said as he and the other pulled out empty pouches."
"With the new branch still having its civil war with the older branches they'll just think it another branch did this and not us" Tolan said as he took his fill of the coin. Garrett stuffed the empty pouch with coin as Anders and Fenris did the same leaving not a single coin left inside the once filled chest.
"Not to sound greedy but what do we do with the coin?" Anders said feeling the weight of the pouch as he hung it on his belt beside the other empty ones. Garrett glanced at Tolan before saying "whatever you want just don't go crazy with it or draw too much attention." "The Clinic can use all the help it can get" Anders said smirking at Garrett as gripped his staff. Fenris looked at Garrett saying "I suppose I can store up bribe money if I ever need it."
Garrett nodded grateful once again at having Anders and Fenris both helping them, it really made an enormous difference. Garrett and the other looked at Tolan saying "how many more?"
"Three" Tolan said before continuing "two in Lowtown and one in the Docks." "Alright let's get moving" Garrett called as the four of them left the hovel heading for another Sharps outpost to rob.
As they walked Garrett trailed behind slightly to talk to Fenris saying "thanks Fenris I wasn't sure if you were staying but I'm glad you did." "I don't mind take down some thugs" Fenris said causally before getting a colder look about him as he continued "this Coterie branch get a lot of funding from Tevinter contacts. It's slave money."
Fenris really hates slavery Garrett thought offhandedly as he said "can't go after the source at least not yet." "I understand" Fenris said as they walked. Frowning slightly Garrett saying "I wasn't sure if you'd want to help considering my plans." Fenris looked at Garrett saying "I've seen many Mages in my time. Your sister is unlike any I've seen before. Kind and more sensible the most." Garrett couldn't help but notice the way Fenris glanced at Anders at the last part but let it slide.
"Freedom is a noble ideal believe me when I say I understand that better than most but not everyone deserves it. Power corrupts. For what it's worth I think Bethany isn't like other Mages... she can handle freedom without abusing it" Fenris said surprising civil.
"I'm glad you see it that way" Garrett said honestly as they walked. I think my sister's the only Mage Fenris doesn't consider dangerous or a threat... whatever his reasons I'm glad he doesn't mind helping Garrett thought as walked ahead to the front.
Gallows
Circle of Magi
Small Room
Bethany Hawke shifted opening her eyes as she woke hearing the light knocking preceded by the sudden opening of her door. Startled Bethany sat up seeing First Enchanter Orsino step inside grimly saying "it's time."
"The Harrowing?" Bethany asked keeping the tone of her voice calmly and controlled. Orsino nodded saying "three Templars and I will escort you there." Bethany nodded and got out of bed glad she'd worn her thicker robe to bed instead of the Circle issued one.
Bethany made to pick up her Staff when Orsino spoke up saying "leave it." Bethany frowned wanting to protest but deciding not to as she remembered what Garrett had once said a wise man knows to pick his battles. Bethany nodded and made to follow Orsino as he made for the door but stopped mid-way and turned around picking up her red scarf.
Orsino was about to protest until Bethany held it up showing him it was just a simple scarf. Orsino smiled lightly as he nodded before gesturing and stepping outside the small room with Bethany following him. Upon stepping outside Bethany saw the three Templars waiting to escort her, two men she didn't recognized but the third she remembered... Sir Cullen.
Bethany glanced at Sir Cullen and exchanged a short look with the man before he took point alongside Orsino forming the escort as they walked. Bethany followed in silence it was an odd thing... all of them herself, Orsino, Cullen, and the other two Templars didn't speak for the entire walk.
Whatever their reasons it slightly unnerved Bethany as she walked in the center of the escort in utter silence. They must have done this a lot through the years Bethany thought as she was escorted down a staircase and past a series of long hallways finally stopping in-front of a heavy iron door with markings etched all over its surface.
"The door resists the Magic. Once inside you won't be able to leave without our permission" Sir Cullen said as he stepped forward and placed his hand on the door about to open it when suddenly a voice called out "Cullen." Bethany turned with the others surprised to see Sir Thrask walking towards them followed by another Templar she didn't know.
"Thrask" Sir Cullen said in greeting as he and Sir Thrask exchanged solutes as Knights of the Order. "We're in the middle of a Harrowing surely whatever it is can wait" Sir Cullen said politely as Sir Thrask noticed Bethany and attempted to give her a reassuring look. Bethany didn't feel reassured in the slightest by Thrask's attempt but nonetheless felt grateful he tried which was more than the other Templars seemed to do.
"There's been an incident. You need to see this" Sir Thrask said grimly before gesturing at the Templar behind him continuing "Sir Milford can fill in for you." Sir Milford saluted and nodded at Sir Cullen saying "it would be my honor Sir."
Sir Cullen stood silent for a moment before Orsino spoke up saying "it must be important go on." Sir Cullen nodded at Orsino and gestured for Sir Milford to take his place as he moved to walk with Sir Thrask.
Sir Milford placed a hand on the iron door opening it as Sir Cullen and Sir Thrask took off heading down a hallway Bethany didn't know led to. Orsino lightly put a hand on Bethany's shoulder reassuringly as she was 'escorted' inside the Harrowing Chamber.
Hearing the harsh clank as the iron door was closed behind her effectively sealing her in Bethany looked around the room surprised to see it mostly empty with the only object in the room being a podium of sorts where a lone Tranquil woman stood at the ready.
The podium is filled with Lyrium Bethany realized as she felt the power emanating outwards. Orsino and the Templars seemed slightly surprised by the Tranquil woman as Orsino stepped forward saying "Elsa? Where is Meredith?"
"Meredith is busy looking into an incident. She asked that I stand in her place" Elsa said speaking in the strange stoically unnatural way that only Tranquil could. Orsino scoffed saying "what incident? Why wasn't I told?"
"The Knight Commander did not presume to inform me and I did not presume to ask" Elsa said not even blinking as she spoke. Poor girl... she's not even there anymore Bethany could help but think watching Elsa as Orsino sighed saying "I need to have words with Meredith again but later. Let's begin."
Elsa looked at Bethany saying " Magic exist to serve man and never rule over him. Thus spoke the prophet Andraste as she cast down the Tevinter Imperium, ruled by Mages who had brought the world to the edge of ruin. Mages are cursed with power that demons of the Fade crave and strive to steal. You will be taken into the Fade and allowed to face whatever may come."
Bethany opened her mouth and closed it again before saying "are you serious?" "The Harrowing will send you into the Fade to face a demon armed with only your will. It is tradition" Orison said grimly as he faced Bethany.
"And if I fail?" Bethany asked not showing her fear knowing that Garrett wouldn't have. "The Templars will perform their duty" Elsa said stoically before Orsino or the Templars could say anything.
Face a demon or die. Lose against the demon become an Abomination then die... the blighted Templars are crueler than I imagined Bethany thought at the prospect of being 'thrown to the wolves'.
Elsa gestured at the podium as Orsino walked forward and raised his right hand beginning the ritual that would Bethany directly into the Fade. Bethany thought back to Tobrius helping back in the library and remembered the book he'd given her as she stepped closer to the podium.
"Are you ready?" Orsino asked giving Bethany the look of an old man... the man who'd done this countless time and seen hundreds not make it. Bethany stood still for a moment before tying her red scarf around her neck for luck and nodding feeling anything but ready.
"See you on the other side" Orsino said as he hovered his hand over the Lyrium encased within the podium as a bright blue light flashed before Bethany's eyes brighter than she expected... then she was gone.
Outside the Circle
Gallows Prison
Lower Level used for isolated prisoners
Sir Cullen and Sir Thrask examined the scene in shock as Knight Commander Meredith glared across the room... the jail cell that lay in ruins.
"What did you know of her?" Meredith asked coldly as she looked around sadly... the bodies of Templars lying haphazardly around. Meredith had taken seven of her best Templars to look over the scene including Cullen and Thrask for their skill and their previous involvement with prisoner.
Sir Cullen managed to keep his cool as he turned to his superior saying "she was part of the plan against the recruits. Worked at the Blooming Rose before being taken in." "Sir Hynes is missing..." Meredith said sternly as she gestured at the fallen Templars around the cell.
Sir Thrask spoke up warily saying "you don't suspect... recruits maybe but Templars?" Sir Cullen shifted uncomfortably as Meredith spoke in her authoritative cold voice saying "Sir Cullen you've saw it at the Ferelden Circle. Even Knights can be corrupted if they let their guard down."
Sir Thrask stepped forward examining the bars of the jail... seeing how they'd been ripped open instead of unlocked.
"Sir Hynes wasn't on guard duty for Idunna... and the bars are broken inward not outward. She didn't break out someone broke her out" Sir Thrask said looking around the scene. "Sir Hynes was posted outside this level and the doors to this level of the prison were not broken" Meredith said looking at Sir Thrask.
"Whoever it was managed to get Sir Hynes under their control and used him to get the jump on the guards outside Idunna's cell. But only Sir Killeen the prison master has the keys for this level... that's why the bars were broken" Sir Cullen said rubbing his stubble.
"How did they break the bars... their meant to resist Magic?" one of the Templars standing behind them said. Meredith pointed at the broken bars saying "the markings have been damaged the Magic resistance wasn't working... only a Templar could do that. Sir Hynes." "But why keep Sir Hynes? They didn't need him anymore? Once free they just left with Idunna" Sir Thrask said exchanging a look with Sir Cullen.
"I don't know... all of you are to investigate. Idunna is loose along with whoever freed her and Sir Hynes is under their control" Meredith said looking over all of her men she'd brought.
"This takes priority. Dismissed" Meredith said causing Sir Cullen and Sir Thrask along with the other five Knights to solute. Just as the Templar Knights began to leave ready to move on and get to work Meredith spoke up saying "one more thing. The dead Templars... pieces of their armor have been taken... collected."
I had fun writing this chapter but I also know it kinda jumps around a bit
I apologize if the pacing is bad but overall I'm happy with how this turned out
As for my portrayal of Orsino I wanted him to show that was an okay guy
Eventually he does that stuff at Act 3 but I feel he was a decent person before that
But I Digress...
Thanks for Reading and please Review