Hey Guys.
Here's the second part of Tolan's story.
Long but not as long as the last chapter
Almost Three Months after the Fall of Ostagar
Kirkwall
Some dark corner of Darktown
Tolan sat alone covered in rags.
Even his face was covered due the medicine filled bandages he wore as infection was still an issue for his face. It was odd he didn't feel pain directly anymore. He noticed it but not to the extent that he would have in his old life.
Living with pain had made him stronger.
The nerves on his face had been sliced through and even now what was left kept trying to reconnect inducing the shadow of pain. Phantom Pain as one of the Healers told him. The Healer had explained that it would never truly go away but that he had an amazing talent for survival.
"Your mouth was cut open and you survived the initial infection. You'll need to keep disinfecting until the scar is fully developed" the Healer had said before taking nearly all of his coin with greedy hands.
It wasn't easy medicine was expensive and Tolan had often stolen and pick-pocketed for the coin he needed. It wouldn't be much longer the scar was almost developed.
His little corner of Darktown was basically an underground room of some kind which original purpose had been forgotten but the doors had broken before Tolan had arrived. Whoever had broken in previously had taken what was left of the wooden doors leaving only the frames behind.
This empty space where Tolan was squatting stood wide open for anyone to see however it was very deep into Darktown where few dared to wander. Tolan had started a fire in some barrel that he had found. It was a cold night and he needed to stay warm.
That's when the footsteps started.
It started slowly but soon they were upon him, three men smirking as they stood before Tolan blocking his only exit. Tolan barely looked up at them from where he sat by the fire. "You're welcome to join me I don't want any trouble" Tolan said.
"What's wrong with your face?" one of them, a tall skinny man whose clothes was too good for Darktown, said.
Tolan didn't answer.
"No matter come on. We can do this the easy way or the hard way. We'll get our money either way" another man said coldly. This one was also too well dressed for Darktown and from the looks of him he wasn't having any trouble finding food.
Slavers. They come here taking the homeless knowing that no one cares what happens in Darktown Tolan thought.
Wearing his filthy rags he probably appeared to be an old man to them as only his eyes were visible underneath his rags. He had managed to barter for some worn out old gloves and a hood that covered his bandaged face.
"Fine we do this the hard way. Come on boys" the first Slaver said strolling forward to what he thought was some old homeless man.
The first Slaver smirked as he reached his hand out for Tolan only to yell in pain when Tolan grabbed his wrist and twisted. The man's wrist broke in a sickening snap as Tolan leapt forward Ostagar knife in hand as he slit his attacker's throat.
The other two Slavers started to draw their weapons.
Tolan kicked over his fire filled barrel letting it roll distorting what everyone could see.
The Slavers stood unable able to see with their only source of light rolling while Tolan knew exactly where they were. How many nights had he spent here in this little hide away… he knew every foot of it by memory.
Like a ghost Tolan back-stabbed the second Slaver as the other frantically backed away stopping the barrel from rolling keeping the light steady.
One more Tolan thought pulling his Ostagar knife from the back of the Slaver he had killed.
The last Slaver eyed Tolan warily as they faced each other. The barrel laid motionless at their feet the fire illuminating the corner. The last Slaver was a strong man with broad shoulders and Tolan knew he had been the most dangerous of the three.
The last Slaver charged forward slashing with his Longsword only to glare as Tolan blocked it using only his Ostagar knife. Tolan was forced to use both hands as he stumbled back but his knife held back the Slaver's Longsword.
The last Slaver began to grunt in frustration as Tolan not only dodged his attacks but blocked and almost parry them using only his knife.
A knife in my hands is worth more than your Longsword Tolan thought as he almost parried the Slaver's Longsword. The difference in blade length made parrying impossible for Tolan but he could make the last Slaver stumble, the man's footwork was terrible.
The Slaver rushed forward forcing Tolan back and punched him.
Tolan nearly flew into the wall but he raised his free hand using the wall to keep his balance.
The last Slaver rushed trying to behead Tolan but he ducked sidestepping as the Slaver's narrowly missed. The man's Longsword carved into the wall behind them instead of beheading Tolan.
Not giving him an opening Tolan rushed the Slaver stabbing his knife into the man's Longsword arm. The Slaver dropped his Longsword but grabbed Tolan by the throat and head-butted him in the jaw.
Tolan's eyes watered as he felt his still forming scar throb with pain. The Slaver drove Tolan into the wall despite the knife in his arm. Tolan began to suffocate but he raised a foot and kicked the Slaver back.
Before the Slaver could recover Tolan leapt atop him.
Together they fell to the floor with Tolan slamming his fists into the Slaver's head.
The Slaver reached up grabbing Tolan by the throat but he used the chance to pull his knife out of the man's arm. The Slavery groaned in pain before Tolan slit his throat.
Tolan fell back and lay there catching his breathe. He hadn't eaten in two days.
This was never easy and Tolan knew one day his trap would draw more Slavers than he could handle. Getting to his feet Tolan searched their bodies taking their coin and whatever valuables they had on them before dropping them down an old sewer drainage.
The fire always draws them Tolan thought as he put the fire out and gathered the supplies he'd hidden nearby.
Living as a rat Tolan had survived longer than one would expect in Darktown with a wound that should have killed him and one that needed to be disinfected weekly.
If Tolan had proper bandages, or proper medicine, or even a Mage with Healing Magic, he wouldn't need to keep disinfecting but no Tolan had none of these. His bandages were filthy and his medicine of poor make.
Tolan didn't even know why he fought so hard to survive. What did he have left anymore? His family was dead and Ganly his only friend left had been killed by Athenril.
It wasn't much but Tolan had burned Ganly's body. He couldn't bury him anywhere decent and he refused to leave his corpse there. Tolan had even mumbled a few prayers for him but he didn't know the Chant of Light so he said the only words he knew.
Now Tolan strode into what past for a marketplace inside Darktown dragging what he had taken from the Slavers to sell. He didn't make good coin he never did but it was better than looking for work in Lowtown where everyone stared at his face and refused him.
In the marketplace Tolan went to what passed for a Healer again getting more medicine before resupplying what he needed such as food and clean water.
Gathering what was left of his coin Tolan left once again descending lowering into Darktown where no could find him.
He found his usual spot in an abandoned sewage tunnel and flung his supply bag, a large blanket that he folded into a bag, above the crawl space where he slept.
Using the cracks in the wall of the sewage tunnel Tolan climbed above pulling himself into the crawlspace and laying his head atop his supply bag. It also served as his pillow.
There was no light down here and that served Tolan well. Inside the crawl space where he slept no one could find him.
His days usually went like this. Surviving but not much else.
Thirteen Months and four days after the fall of Ostagar
Lowtown
Tolan strode through the Lowtown marketplace passing the sea of people selling goods in their makeshift booths but he barely noticed. He had just pick-pocketed a Lowtown merchant and counted the coin.
There was a time he would never have down such a thing but being tortured by Athenril and living as rat had changed him.
Tolan felt his face tracing the fully developed scar. It had taken time but eventually his face had healed and he longer had to disinfect. The wound had fully closed forming a ragged scar running across his lips and past his cheeks.
The traps he had set for the Slavers when living in Darktown had paid off. The fire always drew the Slavers and Tolan had always won though he had been badly hurt at times.
After his face had healed he used the coin he had been saving and moved out of Darktown.
Now he had a hut in Lowtown.
Ironic I used the Slaver's tactics against them and instead of robbing and enslaving me I robbed them Tolan thought remembering his time in Darktown.
He still wore a hood that covered his face and he no longer wore rags instead he wore a set of light armor he'd gotten in Darktown and he always sheathed a Longsword and Dagger on his back while his Ostagar knife was sheathed on his belt.
Tolan still had problems finding odd jobs as the scar on his face usually made people nervous so he stole and pick-pocketed when he had too. But he did that in Hightown where he knew people weren't so desperate.
Passing around a corner Tolan entered the Hanged Man and took a seat at the bar.
He ordered a single drink and listened around. Tolan usually 'tavern hopped' to listen in gathering info. It was astounding what Tolan could learn when he applied his Ranger skills to an urban setting.
In the four months since moving to Lowtown Tolan had learned from listening on people that Athenril hadn't stopped with Griff and his gang. Athenril and her smugglers had taken out the other gangs that tried to move up due the flood of refugees.
Like Griff and his gang Athenril had wiped them all out.
Apart for that the Guard Captain, Ewald, had retired and been replaced by someone named Javen. Though someone folks said Ewald was forced to retire due to his age.
Today Tolan was listening on a drunken merchant talk about how he had cheated his partner.
Suddenly the front door slammed open and a man wearing the silk clothing of an office worker in the Viscount's Keep poked his head in calling "meeting in the town square!"
Tolan and everyone in the Hanged Man stood up as they suddenly began to hear the bells ringing in the distance.
This can't be good Tolan thought as he followed the crowd of people exiting the Hanged Man.
The Town Square
Packed in along with the countless Kirkwallers Tolan was just another hooded face in crowed, he always made sure he never stood out. The elves and people from Darktown stood even below them and of course above them all were the Nobles and Higher Merchants alongside with the City Guards.
Soon the Viscount himself appeared followed by a Noble, two City Council members, some messengers, a Ship Captain, and a dark haired Knight of some kind standing at the platform to speak.
Now standing in the center of the platform with the people's attention on him Viscount Dumar got the people's attention and began to speak.
"Citizens of Kirkwall word has just arrived from the Docks of Ferelden" Dumar began as people in all levels of the Town Square started to murmur.
So this is it? Ferelden has fallen and the Darkspawn are spreading. The city's gonna start preparing while Orlais tries to hold its own Tolan thought darkly. He'd prepared himself for this news since the day he deserted.
Viscount Dumar held up a hand for silence and the murmuring stopped.
"It is my extreme pleasure to say that the Blight has ended! The danger is over and the borders of the Free Marches will be opened to the public in a week" Viscount Dumar exclaimed before allowing the other representatives to speak.
… What. Ferelden has survived Tolan thought in disbelief.
First the Knight of some kind stepped up saying "greetings, my name is Stroud and I'm a Grey Warden. I've come on this voyage to bring word that the Blight has been stopped in Ferelden."
"The Archdemon has been slain and Ferelden has a new king but the danger still exists! Though the Darkspawn are scattered some have made it here to the Free Marches. My fellow Grey Wardens and I will be doing occasional sweeps in, under, and around Kirkwall. Citizens no harm will come to you while the Grey Wardens in the Free Marches do their duty and all we ask as that you be aware of the sweeps and do not interfere" Stroud finished before moving aside for the next person.
Next were the messengers with a message clearly for only the Nobles and wealthier class.
"Greetings we ask that people of the Free Marches, not just of Kirkwall, but from all of the Free Marches please donate to Ferelden. Though the Blight was stopped, the cost was great, and will require much rebuilding. We ask to please help Ferelden as they have in your time of need."
Stroud suddenly stood next to the messengers and continued "it is true Ferelden was not only able to contain the Blight but end it and kill the Archdemon. While the Free Marches closed their borders to the public and strengthened their defense like every other nation, Ferelden stood its ground building a new army to replace the one lost at Ostagar, an army of Men, Woman, Dwarfs, Elves, Mages, and Templars, led by one of the last two remaining Wardens in Ferelden."
"The First Warden has commanded the Wardens to donate to Ferelden, we ask that you do the same" Stroud finished before moving aside once again.
Then the Noble stood in front saying, "for the events in Kirkwall it has been decided that a celebration is to be held every year from this point onward to honor the efforts of Ferelden. Tomorrow will be the first official 'Ferelden Day', a festival is being planned and we ask that all of Kirkwall join the celebration."
All around the town square were rejoicing as the Viscount dismissed them. Soon people were leaving and speaking of the new 'Ferelden Day'.
But not Tolan.
He lingered and watched as the Viscount and the other representatives left one by one until he too left numb and in shock.
Something very painful was happening to Tolan… memories of his home, of Ferelden, and most importantly memories of his desertion.
Before he knew it Tolan was back in his hut in Lowtown and he was slumped against his door having just closed it. His little hut here wasn't much, just a bedroom with some extra space and an outhouse in the back.
Ferelden has won… and everything I've suffered was for nothing Tolan thought as he sat there alone feeling empty inside.
The next night
During the celebrations for Ferelden Day
Tolan sat alone in one of the many tables people had set up in Lowtown. The festival was grand and citywide. Elves were handing out free ale and bards sang songs of Ferelden while everyone was outside celebrating the end of the Blight.
Fergus… did he survive? I hope so Tolan thought glumly as he drank more ale.
Ganly and I deserted because we thought Ferelden would fall… we were wrong Tolan thought.
Could I go back? … Even if I did make it back to Ferelden what do I have left? My family's dead, and my home's burned to the ground. Fergus would spit on me he wouldn't let me serve again… no I have no home anymore Tolan mussed darkly.
Kirkwall is my city now… my hut in Lowtown is all I have Tolan thought bitterly as he got to his feet not in the mood for celebrating. Pushing past the crowds of people Tolan forced his way through Lowtown. He walked in a daze until something caught his eye.
… You! Tolan thought his eyes widening in anger.
There standing just outside a tavern was the Corporal from before… Garrett Hawke. Garrett was speaking with an elf having just gotten some of the free ale.
Tolan felt a sudden surge of uncontrollable range and he had to fight the impulse to reach for his longsword or dagger. Instead he slid off to the side hiding in plain sight leaning against the wall of a tavern while groups of people passed him.
"I know Bethany's getting older, she's practically an adult, but I don't want her drinking ale. At least not for a few years" Garrett said to his elven friend while Tolan listened in. "She's gonna try the ale one way or another. I'm just saying you should guide her so she doesn't go crazy and besides she trust you" Tomwise told Garrett.
"My sister would never go crazy. I know ale changes people my uncle is proof of that. But Bethany's not like that" Garrett countered.
"Look there's free ale all over the city. I didn't like it when Samwise first tried ale but he got older and one day I found him drunk and wandering Darktown" Tomwise said.
"I guess I can let her try one cup… I'd rather be there to watch out for her. I won't let her get drunk but she can try it" Garrett said uneasily.
Just then Bethany caught up with them saying "sorry about that I forgot my scarf. What were you two whispering about now?"
"Nothing. Hey would you like to try some ale?" Garrett asked to his sister's surprise.
Bethany blinked saying "sure… I mean if you insist."
Garrett chuckled saying "sure I insist that you try ONE cup of ale but no more than that." Garrett had seen his sister eying the ale curiously and he knew that she was almost an adult, but their lifestyle and what they had seen made both Hawke siblings very mature.
"I just want to see how it taste" Bethany said awkwardly.
Garrett grinned ruffling his little sister's hair like he used too when they were younger saying "you don't drink it for the taste."
Tolan watched as the Hawke siblings and Tomwise walked off trying to find a table. As they left Garrett kept an eye on Bethany, he was still protective of his little sister.
He still has his family… Tolan thought bitterly. He had so much hatred for this man, this Garrett Hawke, but his vengeance was pointless.
Even if I could get revenge what then? It wouldn't change anything I'd still be just another refugee scraping by Tolan thought letting the matter drop as he moved on.
Humph my lot in life Tolan thought as he reached his Lowtown hut. Looking off into the distance Tolan could see Hightown was heavily decorated, the tall buildings and estates celebrating as the Nobles and higher merchants got drunk.
I hate them… I hate them all. None of these spoiled Nobles understand… it's just another party to them and when it's over they'll go back to spitting on us Ferelden Tolan thought as he entered his hut and slammed the door behind him.
"This is all I'll ever have" Tolan said bitterly to himself as he looked around his Lowtown hut, how long had it taken him just to leave Darktown.
Tolan had seen what usually happened when he tried to find honest work. People would stare at his face and politely refuse him or else call him a Ferelden Dog before spitting at his feet.
Even the City Guard hadn't taken him when he tried talking to a recruiter, a recruiter that just so happened to have been there the day Ganly and he had attacked Ewald.
"You're black listed. Stupid Ferelden Dog you attacked the Guard Captain and you think you can join the City Guard" the recruiter had said as Tolan walked off without saying a word.
Tolan knew his only way up in this world was down here with the criminals. He knew he would never be an honest man and even if he could what then? From what he'd heard former Guard Captain Ewald hadn't gotten much for his thirty years of service.
The only way to build a better life in this world is by force… cold and ruthless just like Athenril showed me Tolan thought bitterly as he traced the ragged scar running across his lips and past his cheeks.
I'm tired of this life! I want more! I will rise above the other refugees and I will do whatever it takes… this is my city now Tolan thought darkly.
Two Days Later
Tolan tracked his target through the Docks.
He followed her and her two goons past the ports all while he remained seen but unseen. He wore slightly ragged clothing with a matching hood that lower class citizens in Kirkwall were known for, people saw him but they didn't notice him.
His target turned a corner going to a more secluded space away from the other people milling around the Docks.
As Tolan followed his target around the corner suddenly twin pairs of hands grabbed him by the arms pulling him forward.
The two goons had grabbed him. Tolan twisted using his weight to help as he broke free of their grasp trying to reach for his Ostagar knife but he was tackled into a wall.
Before Tolan could break free he felt the blade of a Longsword at his throat then another blade on his chest.
Both goons eyed him coldly.
"Should we kill him?" one of them asked. "No not yet. I want to know who he is" Athenril said coolly. The Elven Smuggler Lord had watched calmly as her two bodyguards had grabbed Tolan.
"Don't remember me do you? How about now?" Tolan said slowly reaching up and pulling down his hood so they could see the scar on his face.
"You?" Athenril said her eyebrows arched.
"Never learned my name did you?" Tolan snarled.
"You're bold I'll give you that. What was this about? Hmm trying to avenge that thug… what was name again, Griff?" Athenril said crossing her arms.
"Humph revenge for Griff? I hated him. He was nothing but a thug. I only joined his gang because I had to… I do what need too to survive" Tolan said coldly.
"You try to stalk me around my own territory and think to what? Ambush me? Don't make me laugh. You're good I'll give you that but I'm better" Athenril said.
Fergus trained me to be a Ranger. Trained me in stealth but Athenril is better than me… no one knows her story but she rose above her station Tolan thought.
"I knew I couldn't ambush you" Tolan said as one of Athenril's goons tightened their grip on him while keeping their Longsword at his throat.
Athenril gazed at him curiously. "From what I hear you just lost one of your best men" Tolan said coolly. The flicker of annoyance flashed in Athenril's eyes but it was gone in a flash.
Garrett Hawke managed to walk away from this life… another reason I hate him Tolan thought.
"And just how did you hear this?" Athenril said crossing her arms. "I'm good at gathering information. I can be of use to you" Tolan replied.
"You came crawling back to me looking for a job" Athenril said bemused.
"To survive I do what I need to." Tolan answered coldly. Athenril laughed at him and that was worse than any blow she could give him. "You Ferelden Dogs are survivors" she murmured.
"You amuse me so I'll give you a chance" Athenril said suddenly as she gestured for goons to let Tolan go. Athenril's goons let him go and Tolan looked them over warily.
"What do I have to do?" Tolan asked.
Athenril smirked saying "there's a shipment of Lyrium the City Guards caught. They confiscated it and I want it back."
"How am I supposed to steal Lyrium back from the City Guard?" Tolan asked in disbelief.
"That's your problem. Oh and if this is some ploy for the City Guard when I find out I will torture you again and that lovely face of yours will be ruined" Athenril replied smirking.
Lovely face? You mean the face that was nearly cut in half Tolan thought bitterly.
"I'll get it done" Tolan said. "Best get to it" Athenril said smugly as she gestured for him to leave like he was some stray animal. "Oh and before you go, your name?" she called.
"Tolan" he answered before taking off.
Later
Hours pasted as Tolan gathered intelligence around the Docks and Lowtown, but there wasn't much to learn. Athenril's shipment of Lyrium had been taken by the City Guard but there was no way Tolan could steal it from the Barrack's Store Room.
Tolan had studied the Viscount's Keep and the Barracks but from what he gathered the storage room was deep inside the Keep.
Its Lyrium… that means the City Guard won't keep it they'll hand it over to the Templars. The Chantry controls the Lyrium trade Tolan had thought as the beginnings of plan started to form.
Asking around Tolan had learned of an old 'retired' Templar whom scraped by around the Docks, his name was Samson. Tolan found Samson underneath the Docks looking for scraps and from there it took some convincing but he had persuaded him to help.
"I expect to get paid for this" Samson had said.
"You will be" Tolan replied.
"I want half of the Lyrium" Samson said smirking. "Half? No you'll be paid in coin the Lyrium is not for sale" Tolan replied coldly.
"No Lyrium no help from me" Samson said shrugging.
"You can have some of the Lyrium" Tolan lied. "Fair enough. It isn't easy you know. The Templars get you addicted to the stuff and if you leave you're cut off" Samson said eager for more Lyrium.
"How will the City Guard transfer the Lyrium?" Tolan asked crossing his arms.
"They'll take it to the Chantry and let a Templar or two take it back to the Gallows" Samson said.
"You see Meredith is prideful and won't allow City Guards to enter the Gallows. It's kinda funny actually. The Templars can go wherever they please but if a City Guard enters the Gallows then there's a problem" Samson said.
"If I can intercept the City Guards and get away the Lyrium is mine. I still need to know when they'll transfer it" Tolan said thinking to himself.
"There's a better way" Samson said drunkenly.
And so it was that Tolan donned Samson's old Templar armor and calmly strode into the Viscount's Keep letting the City Guard know to escort the Lyrium to the Docks where a Templar would be waiting to bring it to the Gallows.
Tolan had never even given the City Guard his name as the Templars were used to doing whatever they wanted. Nor had the City Guard seen his face due to Samson's helmet.
Samson is nothing but a Lyrium junkie… he gave up his armor for the chance to get Lyrium Tolan thought as he waited on the Docks for the City Guards to show up.
Soon he spotted them, two Guardsmen carrying a crate and neither looked too happy about taking orders from the Templars.
The City Guard helped me and Ganly once… saved us from a nasty fight. But there's no going back now… life is ruthless and cruel and the only way to succeed is to be the same Tolan thought darkly.
"Alright here's the Lyrium we confiscated. Some of your Order was no doubt trying to smuggle something extra for themselves" a City Guard said as he and his comrade placed the crate down before Tolan.
"Why did we have to meet here? There's no ship for you to take back to the Gallows" the other City Guard said curiously.
"I'm capable of getting a ship. It would be rather rude to make a ship captain wait on two City Guards who took their time" Tolan said.
I've seen the way Templars treat the City Guards Tolan thought making sure to play his part and knowing that Samson's Templar armor wasn't enough by itself.
The City Guards scoffed and turned to leave having delivered their confiscated Lyrium back to the Templars. Tolan picked up the Lyrium filled crate and was about to leave when suddenly one of the City Guards called "hey what's your name?"
Tolan stopped and slowly turned around saying "what does it matter?"
"It's just strange is all. Templars usually work in groups of two but you're alone..." one of the City Guard said. The two Guardsmen started towards Tolan saying "maybe we should all take a trip to the Chantry and sort all this out."
Tolan knew what was about to happen. Fight or flight.
Not waiting for the City Guards to catch up Tolan ran heading down a flight of stairs heading for a path leading to Darktown. The City Guards chased him calling for him to stop.
Soon the three of them were running in the lower levels of the Docks that lead to Darktown, people hardly ever went down there and it was where Tolan had planned it be if it came down to a fight.
Once they were far enough in Tolan dropped the crate and drew his Longsword and Dagger charging the two Guardsmen.
Tolan took down the first Guardsmen by slamming into him and slitting his throat before the man could draw his weapons. The second Guardsmen however had managed to draw his Longsword and soon he and Tolan were dueling.
He's had training and he's good… but I'm better Tolan thought as he parried his attacker's slash and shoved him back causing him to stumble.
Before the City Guard could raise his Longsword Tolan rushed forward and stabbed his Dagger into the man's heart bypassing the armor. It wasn't easy Tolan had put all his weight into it but the man died all the same.
Pulling his knife free Tolan turned to grab the crate of Lyrium only to find Samson already there having grabbed the crate.
"You're a good fighter" Samson said as he eyed the Lyrium greedily.
"I know" Tolan answered as he strode to Samson only to find the retired Templar was trying to back away from him. Samson looked like he wanted to make run for it but Tolan had already reached him and taken the crate of Lyrium.
He did help me Tolan thought as he slowly reached into the crate grabbing a handful of Lyrium and handing it to Samson.
"Get a clean-up crew down here" Tolan said handing Samson his promised coin along with a little extra for the clean-up crew.
"Thank you" Samson said cradling the Lyrium in his hand like it was the most precious thing in the world. Samson would save it for later when he could properly enjoy it.
"Get a clean-up crew" Tolan reminded him.
"Oh yeah. I'm on it" Samson said pocketing the Lyrium and counting his coin.
Athenril's Base
Tolan was being escorted by Athenril's goons to see the Smuggler Lord herself, he had returned Samson's Templar armor and now wore his usual light armor again.
This base of theirs is brilliant… looks just like a docking business but Athenril has her people watch for Guardsmen Tolan thought as he passed several 'Dockers'.
Only instead of being escorted to the Smuggler Lord's office he was instead brought just outside it where Athenril was waiting.
"So you actually did it" Athenril said her eyebrows arched.
Tolan nodded as one of Athenril's goons handed over the Lyrium to their boss. "I can be of use to you. I'm good at gathering info and improvising to get jobs done" Tolan said.
Fergus trained me well he thought.
"Hmm" Athenril said as she opened the crate and examined the Lyrium. "So I'm in then? I did the job" Tolan said.
"Some of the Lyrium is missing" Athenril said suddenly.
The Smuggler Lord coldly looked up at Tolan not even blinking as her goons seized Tolan by the arms.
He was shoved to his knees not able to do anything as more of Athenril's smugglers that had been milling about now had their weapons drawn and three archers already aimed arrows his way.
"I didn't steal. I had to get help. There's a retired Templar named Samson he let me use his old armor to fool the City Guards into giving me the Lyrium" Tolan said quickly.
Athenril gestured and Tolan felt a blade put to his throat drawing a small trickle of blood.
"You wore Templar armor and fooled the City Guard?" Athenril said clearing not believing a word he said. "I returned the Lyrium! If I planned to steal for it myself then why would I bother delivering it back to you" Tolan countered hurriedly.
"Plenty of my own people have tried stealing a little something for themselves. And those people tend to disappear. Loyalty is everything" Athenril said coldly. The smugglers gathered around them nodded their agreement.
Athenril had the loyalty of every single one of her smugglers, she was tough but fair.
"I had to pay Samson. He's addicted to Lyrium most of the Templars are. It was the only way he'd agree to help me" Tolan answered as Athenril knelt down before him.
Athenril thought things over before saying "you did bring me back the Lyrium. Fine I gave you my word… you're in."
Standing up Athenril continued "but I want to see something. You claim to have done all of this yourself but I need to see your skill. My smugglers need to be fighters."
"I was a Ranger in the Ferelden Army I know how to fight" Tolan snapped.
Athenril gave him a curious yet amused look saying "I'll give you a test. But you did give away some of my Lyrium so the test is harder. Why don't we see just how good you really are?"
"Take his weapons away" Athenril said as her goons lifted Tolan open before taking his weapons and shoving him forward.
Suddenly several smugglers began to close in on Tolan forming a ring around him as they each began to draw weapons.
"What is this!" Tolan shouted raising his fists, they were all he had.
"Prove yourself. You worked for the competition once I need to see just how committed you are and IF you have the skill I require of my men. After all you claimed you could replace one of my best men" Athenril answered coolly.
Tolan warily looked around at the ring of smugglers around him. Each of the smugglers had a melee weapon of sorts and they had boxed Tolan in while he had nothing.
"Begin" Athenril said amusingly.
Tolan tried to punch a smuggler as they closed in on him but another slashed him lightly across his back sending him forward where he was back-handed to the face. Tolan stumbled back, blood was dripping down his back and his face hurt.
"No killing" Athenril called coolly.
A smuggler rushed forward trying to slash but Tolan dodged only to get kicked from behind as another smuggler laughed.
This is a game to them! Each just taking their turn Tolan thought as he fell to the ground with a heavy thud before scrambling back to his feet.
It continued like this for some time, the ring of smugglers taking their turn with him as they kicked, punched, and cut him. It didn't matter where Tolan fell or where he tried to run as the smugglers would move with him keeping him boxed in.
Bleeding and busied from the ordeal Tolan slowly got to his feet having been knocked to the ground for the countless time. He glared up at the smugglers spitting out blood.
The smugglers were laughing at him.
Ruthless and cold… it is the only way to survive in this world Tolan thought as he started to play dirty and grabbed a fistful of dirt.
A lone smuggler charged forward smirking the entire time his Dagger raised only this time Tolan thrust a handful of dirt in his eyes. The smuggler stumbled back slashing his Dagger wildly only for Tolan to grab the man's wrist and bring his elbow to the man's face.
The man grunted in pain his nose bleeding as he loosened his grip on the Dagger and Tolan took it for himself.
Now armed Tolan slashed the man across the chest and kicked him.
The man flew back smashing into another smuggler that had started to charge.
Hearing footsteps coming from behind him Tolan snapped around slashing his Dagger and forcing a smuggler that had tried to charge back. Not giving any of the smugglers an opening Tolan slashed back and forth turning all the while, forcing the ring of smugglers back.
None of them were laughing now. Before they had each laughed taking turns and simply overwhelming him…
But now Tolan appeared as if a demon from the Fade itself.
Bruised and bloodied with rips and tears covering his light armor Tolan glared at each and every smuggler with cold feral eyes. The scar running across his face completed the image making Tolan appear absolutely mad.
The ring of smugglers kept their distance this time, unnerved by the sheer rage visible in Tolan's dark hazel eyes.
"What are you waiting for" Athenril shouted to her men, only the Smuggler Lord wasn't smirking anymore.
Slowly two smugglers started forward, each of them trying to flank Tolan's side, but Tolan was ready for them. The first smuggler tried to stab Tolan but he forced them back by slashing his Dagger at his attacker's Longsword with such force that sparks flew.
Acting quickly Tolan elbowed the man in the face before slashing him across the chest sending him back severely hurt.
Hearing the second smuggler approaching Tolan sidestepped ducking a slash that would have taken off his head. The smuggler cried out in pain as Tolan cut the man across the back of his left thigh forcing him to his knees.
Tolan slammed the hilt of his Dagger into the back of the smuggler's head and the man slump to the ground knocked out.
The ring of smugglers actually backed away at the sight of Tolan taking down two smugglers with only a Dagger. "He's only one man" the smuggler that Tolan had stolen his Dagger from said as he drew another Dagger form somewhere and charged.
Tolan blocked a slash from the charging smuggler before slamming his elbow into the man's sword arm forcing him to drop his Dagger.
Next Tolan darted forward slashing the man's shoulder before grabbing him and slamming the hilt of his Dagger into the man's face with a yell. The man stumbled back a single tooth breaking free of his mouth and landing on the ground…
Tolan had knocked the man's tooth out… but he wasn't done with the man. Tolan once again grabbed the man and hurled him into a smuggler that had tried to jump in.
What was left of the ring of smugglers stood back as Tolan glared at them.
Of the ring of smugglers three charged after Tolan. The three smugglers spread out as the charged making sure Tolan couldn't take them all on at once and at first they had the upper hand.
Tolan blocked the first smuggler's slash and dodged the second smuggler's stab but the third smuggler cut him across his side. Tolan was forced back as the three smugglers began to close in on him.
Tolan eyed the three smugglers coldly.
One of them charged forward alone and that was their mistake. Tolan sidestepped dodging the smuggler's frantic stab before he slashed the man's side. The smuggler groaned in pain as Tolan kicked the man in the back of the thigh forcing him down.
Tolan grabbed the man by the head and forced his knee into the man's face. With a sickening crack the man's nose broke and Tolan threw him aside turning his attention back to the other two smugglers.
The two smugglers and what was left of the original ring were murmuring each keeping their distance from the cold feral man with a scar running across his lips and past his cheeks.
With a yell the two smugglers charged.
Tolan met them both head on. He blocked the first smuggler's slash while elbowing the second with his free arm. The second smuggler stumbled back as Tolan and the first continued the fight.
Tolan parried the first smuggler's slash and punched the man in the throat. The first smuggler gulped accidentally biting his tongue as Tolan grabbed him by the head and slammed him down into the ground knocking him out.
Before Tolan could turn around the second smuggler slashed his back having regained his footing.
Tolan stumbled. Turning around Tolan could see that was left of the ring of smugglers stayed out of the fight leaving just him and the smuggler that had slashed his back.
Sounding like an animal Tolan charged forward slashing his Dagger again and again as the smuggler could barely keep up. Tolan was letting all his anger out… he remembered everything that had happened to him and Ganly.
The desertion, the journey to Kirkwall, his face being nearly cut in half, Athenril torturing him, Ganly's death, and finally living as rat in Darktown.
With a yell the nearly feral Tolan slashed using all his weight as the smuggler's Dagger was sent flying…
The smuggler tried to run but Tolan grabbed him by the throat and slashed him across the shoulder before forcing him to the ground. The smuggler groaned in pain as he landed with a thud.
Tolan leapt atop the smuggler placing his knee on the man's throat before he started slamming his fists into the man's face.
On and on Tolan slammed his fist into the smuggler's face until it was nothing but a bloody pulp… none of the other smuggler even tried to help… so great was their fear of the apparent mad man known as Tolan.
"Stop!" Athenril called suddenly all the color having drained from her face.
Tolan snapped out of his rage seeing the barely conscious man underneath him whose face was unrecognizable just a pulp of bruises and blood.
He slowly stood up breathing heavily as every one of the smugglers still standing eyed him warily, but Athenril crossed her arms looking him over.
"Was that enough skill for you?" Tolan spat at Athenril.
All by himself Tolan had taken down over a dozen smugglers.
"Now that… was something I've never seen before" Athenril began as she thought things over, "good at getting information but more than able to hold your own."
"Welcome to the smugglers" Athenril said finally.
Turning to what was left of the ring of smugglers Athenril said "you lot! Gather the wounded and get them to the Healer!" The smugglers that were still standing glared at Tolan but did as they were told and gathered their hurt comrades.
"You look horrible. Find a Healer" Athenril told Tolan.
From that day onward Tolan was one of Athenril's smugglers.
Tolan's Rise
Tolan wasn't giving a very high position but he moved up the ranks quickly. The other smugglers were unnerved by him. To them he was a cold ruthless enforcer whom always knew more than people thought he did.
Within in a year's time Tolan was Athenril's right hand man, always gathering information, smuggling high priority goods, or else serving as Athenril's third bodyguard.
But still Tolan had enemies within the smugglers. Some told stories of him, of how once he was a member of Griff's gang and part of the competition, of the test Athenril had given him where he had nearly killed several smugglers, and of how ruthless he could be.
Some even went so far as to say he could be more ruthless than Athenril.
Every one of Athenril's smugglers knew that she was a tough but fair boss but they also knew she could be ruthless… yet Tolan was even more so.
For Tolan was planning his reckoning.
From the moment he joined the smugglers Tolan was the perfect underling he never showed any signs of rebellion and did whatever was asked of him all the while Athenril called him her 'Ferelden Dog'.
It was something Athenril thought of to make sure she always in control as she had heard of some of her men fearing Tolan.
But Tolan never spoke against Athenril and controlled his emotions becoming a mask of calm all the while the rage in his heart stirred every time he was called Ferelden Dog.
Throughout the year Tolan had asked around and learned more of the man whom had indirectly ruined his life, Garrett Hawke.
Tolan learned that Garrett had had many friends among the smugglers and was probably the only one who walked away from Athenril without consequences.
He learned that his suspicions were correct and that Garrett's little sister was an apostate, but Tolan knew to save that information for later.
Tolan eventually spotted Garrett Hawke outside of the Viscount Keep.
But Tolan only followed him to the Hanged Man and listened in on him and his allies.
Tolan stalked Garrett gathering information about him and his family as he set up his expedition to the Deep Roads, putting together a plan to ruin Garrett's life the way Tolan's life had been ruined.
But Tolan had to wait for he didn't just want revenge. No Tolan wanted to build a better life, a life above anything he could've ever achieved as an honest man. Tolan wanted to own Kirkwall.
Tolan planned to take control of the smugglers for himself and kill Athenril the woman who had tortured him and killed Ganly. But when Athenril saw the Coterie branch rising she joined the Four and Tolan knew his plan needed adjusting.
Tolan gathered information of the Coterie and the Four knowing that to own Kirkwall he would have to arrange their downfall.
And so Tolan did, he planned to attack their weak points and remain unseen all while the larger forces did the major battles, the Ranger's way of waging war.
When the time arose Tolan started to turn some of Athenril's smugglers against her while trying to gain the Red Iron mercenaries on his side.
But Meeran was insulted by Tolan's plan of using the Red Iron to help take down the Coterie and a fight in sued. Thus the hatred between Tolan and Meeran started.
When the time came Tolan waited for Garrett to leave on his expedition before he let the Templars know of Bethany.
Tolan had watched as the Hawke siblings were forced to part.
Watched as Garrett panicked and was willing to do anything to help his sister.
For Tolan had realized that Garrett's weakness was his sister.
And so when Garrett was alone with his world shattered Tolan had appeared as a friend and used him as the face of his plans. At first he was worried Garrett would dig into Tolan but he had covered his tracks.
Even still Garrett wanted to believe Tolan because he wanted to save his sister, and because of that Tolan was able to easily manipulate Garrett into helping.
With Garrett playing his part Tolan was able to weaken the Four then make a deal with the City Guard and take down the Coterie.
And when the time came Tolan killed Athenril and took control of the smugglers.
Not even Marcus Tacitus had survived Tolan's reckoning.
Once Tolan had taken down the Coterie and Garrett was no longer needed he betrayed Garrett and left him to die making sure everyone believed he had left with his sister.
For whatever their reasons many of the smugglers viewed Garret as their friend and Tolan knew if word got out that Garrett had been betrayed some smugglers would turn on him.
Bethany Hawke was another matter that would have to wait for Tolan had more pressing concerns to deal with.
The present
Aveline Vallen strode through Lowtown with Donnic.
"It's actually boring now" Donnic said. "The Coterie's gone and the other criminals agreed to keep a low profile for a whole year. Not much to do know but deal with pick-pockets" Aveline said.
Just then Senior Officer Qerth appeared and spoke saying "Meeran and the Red Iron are dead. The Coterie's mark was left on the wall of their base you two need to see this."
"But the Coterie's gone. We won" Donnic said in disbelief. "Leftovers I imagine. We'll deal with them quickly" Qerth said gesturing for them to follow him as they walked through Lowtown.
"We never did take in all of Dixon's men" Donnic mussed aloud.
"Some are still out there and I bet they think they can still wage war" Aveline scoffed. The three City Guards walked through Lowtown heading for the Red Iron's base but unbeknownst to them was that someone was watching them.
Unseen Tolan watched them leave as he stood in a crowd of people causally going about their day in Lowtown.
Tolan stared at Aveline. He had begun to learn her patrols. Not now but soon Tolan thought as he watched Aveline but he didn't follow her, no he would wait until the right moment before he struck.
He had two Ostagar knives sheathed on his belt… and soon he would have a third.
Later that evening when Aveline was heading back to her apartment in Lowtown having just reached the front door she noticed something was following her.
Turning around Aveline saw… a Mabari running after her.
"Kane?" Aveline said in confusion as the Mabari stood before her looking panicked maybe even a little afraid.
"What's wrong boy- … why are you here? If you're still here that means… that means that Garrett is…" Aveline said thinking aloud.
This isn't right… Aveline thought suspiciously as she opened her apartment door and let Garrett's faithful Mabari inside.
An abrupt end I know
I had fun writing Tolan's fight with the ring of smugglers and his sheer survival instinct
Well there you have it. You've seen both sides of the story
Thanks for Reading and please Review!