As always, thank you to those who have been favoriting the fic. I have several ideas that I am I working on, and I hope you all will enjoy the ride.

Isabella was not known for common courtesy or her care for another's opinion of her, and today would be no exception. She shoved the Amell estate front door open and marched passed the two little dwarves and the elf that served Hawke and her mother. If they greeted her, she did not hear them. She was on a mission, and a damn irritable one. She ascended the stairs to the second level, skipping every other step. She saw Lady Amell and gave her a quick nod.

"Well, for once, I am glad you are here," Leandra said. "Please help her." The older woman held out her hand, silently asking that Isabella enter Hawke's room.

"Gladly," Isabella said. She treated Hawke's door the same as she did with the front, completely ambivalent to the fact that the thick wooden slab would cause quite a ruckus when it slammed into the wall.

Hawke was on her bed, hugging a pillow, and staring at a wall. According to Aveline and Merrill, Hawke had not left her room for damn near three weeks. It seemed that she was suffering from a broken heart, and if Aveline and Merrill had to resort to asking Isabella for help, it was bad. "Well, aren't you a sorry sight," Isabella said, not even waiting for an invitation. She walked inside and plopped herself on the edge of the bed. "The cheeky bastard got to you, did he?" she asked. Isabella knew she was not going to receive an answer, so she continued on as though Hawke did respond to her. "Can't say that I blame you. He is a delicious little thing, isn't he?"

Isabella stretched and yawned. It really was too early in the morning for such conversation. She could be back in her room having a second go at the bloke she met last night. But she and Hawke did develop a sort of friendship over the last few months, so she supposed that she could sacrifice one ravishing morning to aid a friend. After all, Hawke practically saved her life, and she barely knew the pirate at the time.

She stood and walked over to the window that oversaw the majority of Hightown. The city was bustled with life as the merchants began to set up shop with new stock and inventory. "Hawke… did I ever tell you that I was married once?" She heard Hawke rustling, and Isabella smiled. That got a reaction. Good. "I didn't love him. It was out of convenience for my mother really." Isabella remembered a time where she tried to love her husband, but he proved to be less and less of a man each day that went by. "I was always a free spirit, so when my husband died, I rejoiced."

"Did you…" Hawke croaked out. The poor thing's voice was so rough and broken. It must have been days since she last spoke. Isabella was used to hearing such sarcasm, wit, and cheer in Hawke's voice.

'Fenris, you ass' Isabella thought knowing how much he had hurt Hawke. "No," Isabella chuckled. "He was a target for a group of assassins named The Crows. And before your mind begins to wander again, I did not hire them. Though that doesn't mean that I didn't reward my savior handsomely," she sighed with delight remembering how she "thanked" the assassin and how she showed her appreciation for him several times more after. "Zevran…" she smiled.

"You've never thought of re-marrying?" Hawke asked, this time with more life.

Isabella turned away from the window, grateful that Hawke was speaking to her. She saw Hawke eyeing her with curiosity. "No. I have never have, and it's possible that I never will."

"Why?"

Isabella wondered if what she felt was sympathy for her friend. It was a feeling she buried long ago, and she easily lived without it. Hawke looked extremely innocent right now, and Isabella did not have the desire to take advantage of it. No, in fact, she will tell her a truth from her heart instead. "I was never afraid of falling in love," she admitted.

"When it really comes down to it, I was… am… afraid of being loved. And I think that's what happened with Fenris."

Hawke held the pillow tighter to her chest. "He said that his memories returned then disappeared again. He just kept saying he was sorry. And then he was gone."

"Do you honestly think that's what made him leave?" Isabella asked. She had traveled to many places and docked in so many harbors that she lost count. But every foreign land had something in common. The people always ran from their own fears and always gave a shoddy answer for running. "Much as I hate to admit that I was rather jealous that his eyes were only for you," Isabella started, "that really is it. He only longed for you. He's just being a fool right now, and you should let him be."

"Do you really think so?" Hawke asked timidly.

"It could be a month, a year, two or three years from now before he finally understands. Trust me when I say that all men, regardless of age or race, are idiots when it comes to love. It's better that he finds himself now than later," Isabella smirked. She was rewarded with a smile from Hawke. "Now come on. You're not going to be holed up in here day in and day out. You're a free bird for the time being, so you should enjoy it."

Hawke lifted her head and stood to her feet. "What if he never comes back?"

Isabella shrugged her shoulders. "That is why I don't deal with love." When she saw Hawke's expression sadden once more, she walked up to her and placed her hands on Hawke's face. "Some people are made for love and some are not, my dear. I believe you and Fenris are, but he doesn't know how to handle that. If anyone can bring him over, it'll be you. But like I said, I will not have you wasting away in here. Wash up, clean those tears out of your eyes and get dressed. We're leaving. And I will not take no for an answer."

Hawke gave her a full smile. "You're a good person Isabella," she said.

"Well, don't let that get out. I feel… strange," Isabella said.

"Your secret is safe with me," Hawke said, giving her a quick wink. "I think I could use some fresh air." She walked to her armoire and pulled out a light blue dress. Hawke stared at her for a few moments and Isabella only stared back at her.

"What?" she asked, tilting her head. "Oh you want me to leave? Well, that's a shame. I suppose I will let my mind wander," Isabella flashed her a devious smile. "I will be outside." Hawke rolled her eyes, and turned away to begin undressing. Isabella couldn't help herself. Thanks to her stealth training, Hawke had no time to react at all. Isabella raised her hand and gave Hawke a quick slap on her behind. Her body was quite toned after all. "Just as I imagined," she said seductively before heading out of the bedroom. All she could do was smile to herself, knowing full well that Hawke was staring at her back, wide eyed and completely lost for words.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Isabella led her to the Hanged Man which was hardly surprising. What did surprise her was that she saw more than a few familiar faces. Aveline, Merrill, Anders, Varric and a few of Aveline's guards that she recognized were gathered around a large table apparently waiting for her. Isabella walked up to Varric and held out her hand. "Pay up," she smirked.

Varric handed her five silvers and grumbled to himself. "You're not even a mage," he said. "What magic did you use to get her out of there? We've been trying for days!"

Hawke was shocked that they had all gathered for her. She had no idea that they cared for her that much. "I didn't mean to worry any of you…"

Isabella slung an arm around her, pulling her along to join the party. "Nonsense. Now then, let's have some fun! Drinks are on Varric!"

"Hey!" shouted the dwarf.

For the first time since she had been with Fenris, Hawke laughed. They pulled more tables together and they began ordering a feast and it seemed that they intended to drink the tavern dry. Aveline clasped a hand on her shoulder. "It's good to see you in better spirits, Hawke. You had us worried."

"It's nice to finally be out again. I didn't realize how much I missed the sun and smell of the sea. Thank you, Aveline. You're a true friend," Hawke said. She raised her cup to salute the guard captain, and the gesture was returned. One of Aveline's guards approached them and nodded to Hawke in greeting.

"Serah Hawke," he said.

"Guardsman Donnic," Hawke said happily. She gave him a playful shove. "I take it that the elopement went well?"

"Oh Maker…" Aveline swore, burying her face in her hand.

"Elop- elopement!" Merrill squealed. "You and Messere Donnic, Aveline? Oh, why did you not tell us? I could have made you wonderful Dalish decorations, and I could have made the nicest little desserts for your guests, oh! And I didn't even get you a present…"

Aveline shook her head as was about to correct Merrill, but Donnic stepped forward with a smile. "Calm yourself, little one. The captain and I are not together though I would not be entirely opposed to the idea."

If Hawke didn't see it with her own eyes, she never would have believed that Aveline could blush. She didn't mean for her joke to get very far, but this did confirm her suspicions about Aveline. And it seemed that Donnic, though allowing his drink to speak for him, shared that interest.

"Oh…" Merrill said in disappointment. "Well, I suppose it's good that I didn't miss something so important. Very well then. Aveline, I expect you to tell me when you will be getting married, so I can make the proper arrangements."

Varric whistled. "Look at our little elf go! Who knew a couple of drinks could create a backbone."

The lightheartedness of the atmosphere made Hawke feel much better. She had missed this; she missed her friends. Perhaps, she could learn to let Fenris go for just a little while. He needed to sort out his life, and right now, she just wasn't meant to be part of it. Several musicians began to play music that Hawke had not heard in years. It was a melody that she loved to dance to when she was much younger.

Anders was next to her and he held out his hand in invitation. "Join me?" he asked. She didn't have time to say yes or no. Isabella's hips collided into hers and she stumbled into Anders. He pulled her along, not letting her fall. Before she knew it, she was surrounded by other Fereldans and they were dancing in sync to the music. "Thought you'd enjoy a taste of home," Anders said in her ear.

It took her a while before she could get the rhythm, but it all came back to her. She twirled and clapped and stomped her feet. More of her countrymen joined in and soon the entire tavern was on their feet. Either people already knew the dance and were enjoying themselves or they were being taught and clumsily joined a group.

Hawke held up her hand, and Anders pressed his palm against hers and they took three steps in a circular motion before they switched hands and changed directions. Hawke could feel the smile on her face and her mood reflected on Anders. He too, was smiling and laughing. Hawke had never seen him more handsome. It was such a pity that he spent most of his time scowling and frowning because he was at war with the Templars. When the music called for it, he put his hands on her hips and lifted her. When she was back on her feet, she turned and swayed her hips, clapping her hands.

She had forgotten how beautiful the dance was, and she had forgotten how popular it was in Fereldan. Everywhere she turned, she saw a smiling face. It made her forget about the prejudice that Kirkwall had for Fereldans, and it made her feel at home. The dance was nearing an end; the final move required participants to choose a partner and of course, Anders chose her. He reached out for her hand and when their fingers touched, she stepped forward and turned, twirling into his arms when the last note was played.

Applause erupted in the tavern when another song began and many more drinks were ordered. There was something in Anders' eyes that she had never seen before. He acted as though he was going to say something, but instead he took her hand and led her back to their table. Many natives to Kirkwall patted Hawke on the shoulder. "Not bad for a Fereldan," many of them said.

Merrill was still out on the floor doing her best to keep up with everyone else, and Isabella was there to coach her. It was comforting to see that they had developed an, albeit odd, but sisterly relationship with one another. Hawke was convinced that Isabella very a caring person deep down. Today was proof enough.

"That was something, Hawke! And Anders, who knew?" Varric said, passing them more drinks. "I have quite a bit to write down in my journal thanks to that little display."

"One can only imagine. Just make sure you tell people that I was actually graceful rather than stumbling all over the place," Hawke laughed.

"You were flawless," Anders said. "And you can quote me Varric."

"Fair enough," the dwarf said and gulped down another drink. "Listen Hawke, it'll be hard at first. But you're going to be just fine. I know it."

Hawke cupped Varric's cheek, grateful that she was blessed with such a friend. "I've supposedly come away from a mighty battle with a High Dragon unscathed. I suppose I can live through this."

"That's my girl," Varric said. "Now we have more dancing to do. Come on!" Varric was far too gone to even notice that Hawke did not join him. Her feet were aching, so she settled for watching the others enjoy the night.

"And here Dwarves are supposed to be known for their tolerance of alcohol," Anders said. "I remember a dwarf I came across during my time at Vigil's Keep. His breath could clear a room and his manners only cleared it faster."

Hawke laughed. "Thank you, Anders. I do appreciate you being here."

"I wish I could do more," Anders sighed. "But there is no magical cure for mending a broken heart. I'm just sorry it even happened. I'm sorry he hurt you."

Hawke put her elbows on the table and rested her chin on her hands. "I haven't given up hope. So in the mean time, I'll just keep myself busy."

"Why does he still have such a hold on you?" Anders asked, leaning in closer. There was a hint of anger in his voice. "He doesn't deserve you. Why put your faith in him?"

Hawke searched his eyes. Beyond the anger and irritation, she could see that he was worried for her and that he cared deeply for her. "The same reason that I have any for you," she answered simply.

"I – I do not understand."

"He is tied to his past and struggles with his hatred for mages. That's no different than the war between you and Justice and the templars. Your hate for the templars only grows and it is enhanced when Justice gains control of your body. The others may have given up on you both, but I haven't. I have faith that you both will learn to let this hatred go," Hawke explained. "Am I fool then?"

"Hawke I…" Anders stumbled over his words, but in the end, he decided not to say anything. He grabbed her hand and lifted it to his lips, gently kissing her fingers. "Thank you."

She wasn't sure about what she was feeling in the pit of her stomach. How could one tell if instincts were foreshadowing a good future or a bad one? Anders stood to his feet and offered his hand once more. "Another round?"

She smiled and gladly accepted his offer. Despite having a spirit living inside of his body and the occasional plan to overthrow the Circle, Anders was quite patient and considerate. For the rest of the night, he was by her side as a friend, and that was exactly what she needed