Lana was finally going home after staying with Fenris for a week. The elf had enjoyed the company but Hawke believed it was time to face the music and finally claim back control of her Estate so to speak. Fenris insisted on coming with her though. She guessed for moral support against her mother. I hope he uses that fist thing on her! I bet if he reached inside her chest though there wouldn't be a heart for him to steal. Hawke had purposely stayed indoors to avoid Leandra and any other noble in Hightown who had witnessed her 'embarrassing' her mother the night of the dinner party. Bodhan had delivered her clothes to allow her to change out of the revealing red dress. She hadn't seen anyone since then, Isabela included. Fenris had informed her that the pirate was still living in The Hanged Man. It made Hawke a little happier to know that the Rivaini hadn't run for the hills after their last confrontation. Or maybe she just hadn't left because she had no ship to escape on. Either way, Hawke was glad that Isabela had stuck around, even though she couldn't imagine where they would go from here.
"You look nervous, Hawke," Fenris observed, as they approached the Estate, "Do you want to guess what colour my underclothes are again? Would it make you feel better?"
Lana laughed, "Believe me that would be much more fun than what I am about to do...I'm fine though, really."
The elf gave her a sceptic look. "If you say so. I don't even know why you bothered with a dinner party in the first place. Don't people usually just try to kill you the moment they meet you?"
"Pretty much," Hawke said chuckling, "I can't go twenty minutes without getting jumped. And after that dinner party I think I prefer it that way. At least then I don't have to listen to the crap that falls out of their mouths. I can just silence the old buggers. You wouldn't believe how much my sword arm was twitching at that party!"
Fenris laughed. He didn't doubt her for a second. Under the jokes he could still see the strain on Lana's face though. However, he knew it wasn't only to do with Leandra.
"Are you going to see Isabela today?" Fenris asked carefully. He saw the frown on Lana's face deepen.
Hawke hesitated. "I...I don't know...I could use a drink in The Hanged Man but..."
Fenris saw Lana cringe a little. She still hadn't told him what had happened between her and the Rivaini, but he could guess. Their games of flirtation had taken on an entirely new form recently and they had probably taken it a step too far. Isabela tended to push things to the limit, and Hawke wasn't far behind her in that respect. The two women had a talent for trouble. That was part of the reason they got on so well. They were very similar, but at least Hawke hadn't tried to sleep with him yet. Isabela on the other hand had tried to seduce Fenris a few days after they had met. If not for the games she played with Hawke, he might have considered it. The pirate was cold inside, and Fenris shared that with her. He knew Hawke had a heart though. He envied her a little for it. That was probably the main difference between her and Isabela. There was a certain warmth to Hawke which drew others to her like a moth to a flame. She didn't notice it herself but Fenris certainly had, and so had her other companions. For Hawke to draw in someone like Isabela as she had, there must be something the Rivaini liked in her other than her looks. But they were distant now. The jokes were done. Something had definitely happened between them.
"I'm sure whatever it is you can work it out," the elf assured her, "A few drinks wouldn't go amiss."
Lana said nothing. She dreaded to think what a few drinks would do to this situation with Isabela. It couldn't hurt, could it? Sometimes what seems like an antidote can turn into a poison though. And their relationship was poisoned enough by the mention of 'love'(however little). Lana didn't want to give Isabela another excuse to run away. She was really surprised the Rivaini was still here.
At the door to the Estate, Hawke heard Gamlen shouting within. What is he even doing in my house? At first she thought he was calling her mother but after entering the living area with Fenris she realised he was shouting at Sandal. The little dwarf was none the wiser though.
"LE-AN-DRA!" Gamlen yelled, spelling out each syllable for the young dwarf. Sandal stared up at him with his large blue eyes, drool sliding from his mouth as it usually did. Lana sniggered. He was a cute child. A bit odd, but then weren't they all?
"How long have I been gone?" Lana interrupted from behind him, her voice heavy with sarcasm, "Leandra has learnt to become a dwarf! What a transformation! A definite improvement!"
"Enchantment!" Sandal shouted, breaking into a wide grin at the sight of Lana.
Gamlen turned around, rolling his eyes, "Very funny, Girl...Where's your mother?"
"What Mother?" Lana said bitterly. Gamlen sighed.
"Look, I know you two aren't...I...I felt for you after that dinner party, I did...Leandra was..." he stuttered. Hawke's eyes widened in surprise. She hadn't expected sympathy from anyone, least of all Gamlen. They had never gotten along. The sorrow in his eyes seemed genuine though, the most genuine look Hawke had ever seen there. In his own way I guess he really does care about me.
"Thanks..." Lana answered stiffly, lowering her gaze and scuffing the ground with her foot. Gamlen shuffled uncomfortably as well. Neither of them was accustomed to being nice to each other. Fenris stared at them both strangely, feeling slightly uncomfortable himself. After several seconds Gamlen cleared his throat.
"Well...yes...anyway," he began, "Leandra was supposed to visit me as she does every week, but she hasn't shown up. Do you know where she is?"
Lana shook her head. "I haven't seen her since..."
An awkward silence passed between them once more. Suddenly Bodhan entered.
"Serah Hawke!" he exclaimed happily, "Great to have you back! This week was very dull without you. Lady Leandra has barely been here. It's just been me and Sandal for the most part. Isn't that right my boy?"
"Enchantment!" Sandal said loudly, with a nod.
Lana smiled, "Thank you, Bodhan. It's good to see you too. We're looking for Leandra as it happens. Have you seen her today?"
"Not since this morning, Serah," Bodhan replied, "I gave her a bunch of flowers from her suitor and she left at once, a huge smile on her face."
"Suitor?" Gamlen exclaimed, "Leandra never mentioned a suitor!"
"Actually, she told me something about it," Lana revealed, "The night of the dinner party. She was considering remarrying. I knew there was someone on her mind."
Gamlen looked gobsmacked. "Well...did she say anything about him?"
Lana shook her head. "Nothing in particular."
"Eh, Hawke," Fenris interrupted. Lana turned to him. He was pointing to something on the mantelpiece, his brooding face frowning in suspicion. "Recognise them?"
Hawke followed his gaze. There, resting in a vase, threateningly beautiful, was a bunch of white lilies. Oh Maker, No! Her blood ran cold.
"White lilies..." she whispered, turning back to Fenris with wide, fearful eyes. Her tone turned businesslike at once. "Go to The Hanged man and round-up the others. Varric and Aveline said they'd be there. I'll meet you in Darktown in five minutes."
Fenris hesitated before leaving. "And Isabela?" he asked uncertainly. Lana paused, considering. A part of her wanted to see the pirate but then she remember the cold look on Isabela's face the last time she had seen her. It's easier this way. Her jaw tightened.
"No," she said stiffly, "Don't ask her. She won't care anyway and...I can't...No."
Fenris nodded once and set off at a run, without asking the reason for Hawke's reluctance. It was none of his business.
"What's going on?" Gamlen asked worriedly. "What's so bad about a bunch of white lilies?"
"I know something about that," Hawke said, grabbing her daggers from the rack on the wall and running to the door of the Estate. She had no time to explain. Time was running short as it was.
"Don't just leave me waiting, what is it?" Gamlen demanded jogging after her. They ran out into Hightown, heading in the direction of Darktown as fast as they could. Gamlen was confused as to the sudden seriousness of this situation. He struggled to keep up with Lana's speed.
"There's a killer on the loose in Kirkwall, Uncle!" Lana shouted over her shoulder, pushing through the crowds of Hightown shoppers. "He sends his victims white lilies before he takes them!"
"What? Don't be stupid. Your mother would never fall for someone like that...and besides I've never heard of him. I bet she's fine. You're overreacting."
Lana rolled her eyes, hearing her uncle mumble in denial behind her. "He's murdered several women already, Uncle! Trust me!"
Gamlen stopped running then, his face white as a sheet. He looked unsteady. Hawke looked back and halted, seeing her uncle frozen still. She couldn't believe it. Andraste's Ass now's not a good time for a rest! She ran back and tried to drag him with her.
"Hurry up, Gamlen! We don't have much time! What are you waiting for?"
"I...Maybe she just...took another path to my house, Lana," Gamlen said, trying to convince himself. He looked beside himself with worry. "I'm sure I just missed her. I should just...wait for her there, shouldn't I?"
Lana saw the fear in her uncle's eyes. He always was a coward. This time she couldn't blame him though.
"Fine!" she exclaimed, "Go wait at home! I'll let you know when I find her."
Lana patted him on the shoulder and sprinted down the numerous steps which would eventually lead to Darktown. If that bastard has touched a hair on my mother's head I'll tear him apart!
Hawke ran the length of Darktown searching and searching. It was hard to find one individual among the sick and the weary, even if he was wearing noble clothes. Fenris was waiting with Varric by Anders' clinic.
"Where are the others?" Lana asked, trying to catch her breath. She expected more than two.
"Aveline's on her way. She went to get Daisy," Varric informed her. "We're to send word where to meet her.
"Alright let's go!" Hawke said, about to set off. "We need to find Gascard Du Puis!" Suddenly the door to the clinic opened behind them.
"Hawke..."
Lana spun around, feeling her anger flare at that voice. Anders.
"What do you want, Asshole?" she growled, her eyes flashing dangerously. She was in no mood right now. There was no time for pleasantries (or insults). Her only hope was to find her mother alive and well. What ever their differences, she couldn't help but still care about her. This flaming mage had some nerve to try and speak to her in this moment, especially after what he had done. She had managed to avoid him for years. Why now, of all times did he decide to show himself?
"I heard about, Leandra," Anders continued, stepping outside. "I want to help."
"Like you helped my sister all the way to the Gallows?" Hawke spat before turning away. "Go screw yourself! If you think I'd ever turn to you for help you're more stupid than I thought."
"Hawke wait!" the mage shouted running after her and grabbing her arm.
"Get your hands off me before I slit your throat!" Lana said through gritted teeth, trying to shake him off.
"Look, I'm coming whether you like it or not!" Anders yelled back, "This is dangerous blood magic we're talking about. You need me, Hawke!"
"Andraste's Ass I do!"
"Hawke," Varric began, "He's right...We don't know a thing about what this bastard is capable of. Think of Leandra."
Hawke pulled out of Anders' grip and sighed. They were wasting time here. She glared at Varric before turning to Anders, giving his a look of utmost loathing. "Whatever," she said shaking her head, "Just don't get in my way. I don't need another excuse to kill you."
The four of them set off at once to find Gascard Du Puis. Lana was reeling at the fact that Anders was running alongside her. She held back the urge to just run him through and be done with him for good. But now was not the time. They had to find Leandra before it was too late. The apostate Du Puis had been searching for this 'white lily' killer himself, after he kidnapped his sister a few years back. Perhaps he could help them. He was their only lead.
"Gascard!" Hawke yelled, spotting him leaning against the dirty wall of Darktown, beside a tunnel entrance. The nobleman looked up in surprise. Lana pushed through a crowd of dirty beggars and approached him.
"Hawke, what are you doing here?" he asked, looking a little worried.
"I need your help," she said desperately, "The killer has stuck again. I need to find him."
Du Puis turned away and leaned over the edge of a nearby ledge, staring out at the Gallows in the distance.
"I you're talking about Alessa...He already has her," the man said sadly. "She went missing not long after you 'rescued' her from me."
"I'm not talking about Alessa," Lana said, trying to speed things along, "Wait! You used blood magic on her right? To track her? If what you said is true, and she has been taken, can you use it to find out where the killer has brought her?"
Gascard turned back to her. He nodded. "I have enough of her blood for one ritual."
"You mean you could have stopped him this whole time!?" Lana asked in disbelief. "What haven't you done it?"
"I lost the power to confront him after you killed my shades the day that fool Emeric sent you to my Estate then got himself killed...But with your help, we could do this together."
Hawke felt wary of accepting his offer now. There was something fishy going on here. She had no choice though. Every moment spent talking was another wasted. Leandra's life hung in the balance.
"Fine, let's do it! Use the blood", she said. "I need to find my mother!"
"Blood magic's never the answer!" Anders exclaimed. Hawke turned and slapped him hard across the face before she could stop herself.
"Shut up!" she growled, "I don't care if you disapprove! I need to find my mother!"
Anders felt the side of his face where a red mark in the shape of Lana's hand was forming. There was a desperation in the woman's eyes. He could tell she was terrified. Maybe this wasn't the time for morals. He fought down Justice rising up to defend him.
"Sorry," he replied softly.
"Stand back," Gascard said, "If there is anything of Alessa left in this world this ritual will find it."
The four of them watched as the blood mage pulled out a knife and rolled up his sleeve. Lana had only ever seen blood magic being performed a few times before, but it always repulsed her. She felt her stomach heave as the mage sliced open his wrist with the blade with a sharp intake of pain. The blood that came out was a darkened red, tainted and congealed. You could almost smell the corruption from it. Suddenly Gascard was lifted off the ground as though hovering. He glowed bright red then fell back down, landing of his hands and knees. Hawke rushed to help him up.
"Well?" she asked eagerly. "Where is he?"
Gascard gave her a look. "A place I think you've been once before."
Lana kicked open the foundry door, breaking the lock with the sheer force, and entered with her companions (minus Fenris who had run to get the others). Anders, Varric and Gascard stalked along behind her, each of them wrinkling their noses in turn as a putrid smell assaulted their nostrils, which seemed to be rising from the very floor they were walking on. Lana covered her mouth, fighting the urge to gag.
"Do you smell that?" she asked, trying no to hurl. "It's worse than the bloody Deep Roads."
"Smells like blood," Anders said in a muffled voice, talking through his sleeve, "A lot of it."
Suddenly a rat appeared and skirted out the open door behind them. They all turned back, watching it go, feeling as though they should be doing the same. This place was unsettling.
Varric choked slightly, "It stinks so bad here even the rats can't stand it."
"Let's look around," Lana ordered, turning back to scan the insides of the foundry. This was where they had found Ninette's remains all those years ago. That's not a good sign. "Mother must be here somewhere."
The four of them walked further in, trying to find footing on the uneven floor. Varric glanced up at Hawke. He had never seen her more worried. The normally pretty, impish face she had was now lined with worry making her look almost twice her age in this dark foundry. The dwarf dreaded to think what would become of her if Leandra wasn't here...or was already dead. Hawke was strong but she always had a weakness where Leandra was concerned. Suddenly, just as Lana was about to walk up the stairs, there was a horrible, squelching sound and her foot slid a little to the side. She froze.
"Oh Maker," she whispered, her eyes shut tight, "Please, please don't tell me I've just stood on my mother's hand as well now."
Varric snorted in response, remembering a few years previous when Hawke had accidentally stepped on Ninette's remains in this very place. He looked down at her feet and exhaled with relief. "Don't worry, Hawke. It's just...blood."
Lana opened her eyes and looked down. Her entire boot was covered in fresh blood. She gagged, feeling the warmth of it seep through her shoe. Whoever's blood this was had to still be alive. It could be Mother's...or the Killers..
"Ughh, that's going to be hard to get out," she said, shaking out her boot, hearing the blood splat to the ground beside her. "These are brand new too." She continued up the steps. "There's more of it up here... I think it's a trail."
"Be careful!" Gascard whispered in the semi darkness. "He's here, I know it!"
"How do we know it's a 'he'?" Anders asked. He has a point, Lana thought to herself. Maybe we have gone about this all the wrong way. Gascard seemed certain though. And so did Emeric.
They searched the nearby hallway, following the bloody footsteps which stained the ground in front of them. More rats scurried past, making Hawke jump. Her every nerve was on edge. She had never been this terrified in her life. She wasn't afraid of the killer, but by what she might find at his feet. As much as Hawke hated her mother right now, she still loved her. It was a reflex action to care for her, no matter how much pain the woman caused her. Even if Leandra didn't feel the same way, she was the only immediate family Lana had left now. She couldn't lose her too.
"Look, a trap door!" Varric hissed, "That wasn't there before."
"Look's like someone forgot to conceal their hiding place. How inviting of them," Lana said sarcastically, "Let's drop in for a visit, shall we?"
"Right behind you," the dwarf whispered, "Bianca's getting twitchy."
Hawke lowered herself to the ground below the foundry, hearing the others jump down beside her. The horrible stench was worse in here, as though flesh was rotting somewhere nearby. Actually, maybe it was. Lana shivered.
"Ugh, Maker's Breath that smell!" she complained, her eyes watering as it wafted up once more. There was an annoying buzzing sound of flies nearby. They were no doubt revelling in the human remains scattered on the ground around them.
"What's that!?" Gascard gasped, pointing to a makeshift bed in the corner. A woman was lying on it, unmoving. Lana ran towards her.
"Mother!" she exclaimed, rolling the woman over. The dead woman's hand fell limply beside her. It wasn't Leandra.
"Alessa!" Gascard hissed, shaking his head, "I tried to save her...but she wouldn't listen to me."
Hawke felt sick. "You did the best you could, Gascard. Let's move on. We don't have much-"
Suddenly the ground erupted all around them and deafening screeches filled the air. Hawke and the others turned around in surprise.
"SHADES!" Anders yelled.
All four of them withdrew their weapons and charged.
Isabela, Fenris and Aveline waited outside Merrill's home. The mage had only just woken up (or rather been wakened by a fierce-looking Aveline) and told of Leandra's disappearance. She was busy getting ready as quick as she could while the pirate, the elf and the Guardswoman gave her some privacy. The two women leaned on either side of the door frame, glaring at each other while Fenris stood with his arms folded, grumbling impatiently.
"Why do you even want to come, Whore?" Aveline asked annoyed, "You don't even like Leandra."
Isabela chuckled, "You got me there, Big Girl. The woman's a stone cold bitch and I couldn't care less about what happens to her...But Hawke's my friend. I'm doing this for her."
"More than friends it seems," Aveline grumped, referring to the dinner party.
"That," Isabela began, "is none of your business, Prude."
"It is when you mess my friend about," Aveline replied angrily, "You caused her a lot of pain that night."
"I know," Isabela began with a smirk, "I pressed her up against that bookshelf so hard...oh, you should have heard Hawke moan from the roughness of it all. I can still feel her body writhe against me now. She almost cam-"
"Oh don't be so vile!" Aveline interrupted, "You know what I mean, Isabela!"
The pirate chuckled. She knew exactly what Aveline meant but did not want to discuss it, especially not with her.
"Hawke didn't want you to come," Fenris informed her then, "She was adamant that you stay out of this."
Isabela sighed. She knew perfectly well that Hawke didn't want to see her after that disastrous dinner party a week ago. She had hurt her badly, caused her a lot more pain and humiliation on top of what she was already feeling. But just because Isabela didn't love her back didn't mean she didn't care about her. Maker's Breath, Hawke's the closest thing I've ever had to a proper friend!...Not that the Big Girl needs to know that. There was no way she was running out on her when she needed her most. The pirate knew that no matter what Hawke said about her mother, no matter the trauma Leandra had put her through, she would be devastated if the woman died. One person could only take so much loss, and Hawke had already had her fair share of it.
"Well, she can tell me herself when she sees me," Isabela replied, refusing to stay behind, "I'm still coming."
"Have it your way," Aveline groaned. Isabela smirked.
"I always do, Big Girl."
"I know," Aveline agreed angrily, "And Hawke's usually always the one who pays for it."
Isabela straightened up ready to have a go at her. Just then Merrill emerged from her house, breaking up the impending fight. She lanced from Isabela's glare to Aveline's.
"Ready?" she asked innocently, as though they were all just going for a picnic.
"Let go!" Fenris ordered, rolling his eyes. Maker, he couldn't stand that Dalish girl sometimes. It was bad enough she was a mage but did she have to be so infuriating too? "We've wasted enough time here!"
The other three ran after him, heading in the direction of the foundry at the other side of Lowtown. Isabela glared at Aveline as they ran. As if that iron lady is going to be able to comfort Hawke if this all goes tits up! The Rivaini thought to herself, she probably can't even hug something without squishing it to death. Just then Isabela realised that she was just as inadequate. I'm really not good with emotional crap...Maybe I should have stayed behind. It was too late though. They were already nearly there and there was no way the pirate was going to give the Big Girl the satisfaction of seeing her bail. Hopefully we'll get there before anything bad happens. It was a conclusion the pirate sorely wanted to believe.
"Oh shit..."
Lana bent down and lifted a piece of jewellery from the dusty, blood stained ground. Her breath caught.
"It's Mother's locket!" she whimpered, gripping the cool metal tightly in her hand.
Varric placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry, Hawke. We'll find her. Let's keep moving."
Hawke stowed the locket in her pocket and got to her feet. This wasn't looking good. She can't be dead...She just can't be. The four of them walked further, descending a nearby stair case. Suddenly it was as though they had stepped into someone's sitting room.
"Does he...live here?" Anders asked incredulously, scanning the nearby bookshelf. "What a collection. Necromancy, Dark Magic, Blood Magic..."
Hawke felt lightheaded. "Please stop talking," she said. She didn't know whether it was Anders' voice or the words he was saying that was irritating her. None of this was giving her any hope. And that smell! Maker's Breath!
"Don't touch anything!" Du Puis ordered as Anders made to lift one of the books, "He has set up shades against us if anything is disturbed."
"Let's keep going," Varric said, "We must be getting close now."
The dwarf gave Hawke a gentle nudge in the back, who seemed to have become frozen with fear. She didn't move however. Lana was staring up a painting, her mouth hanging open.
"Maker's Breath!" she gasped. "What-What is this?"
The others turned as well, Varric and Anders mirroring Hawke's expression.
"That...That looks almost like Leandra!" Varric exclaimed. The portrait hung eerily over the fireplace. It was almost set out as some sort of shrine.
"A shrine dedicated to a wife?" Anders ventured, looking equally disturbed.
Hawke started to breathe rapidly. "I need to find her!" she said forcefully, turning and walking on ahead, "NOW!"
"Keep it together, Hawke," Varric said gently, as he and other others followed."This isn't over yet."
Lana swallowed hard and nodded. She shook herself slightly, trying to stay in control of her emotions. I'm going to kill that bastard if he has touched my mother! The four of them proceeded down a dark winding tunnel. After a few minutes they finally came to another staircase and made their way down. As Hawke and her companions turned the corner they stopped suddenly. A man in a robe was standing before them, talking to someone they couldn't see who was sitting in a chair. He looked up then, noticing he was no longer alone. A smirk appeared on his face.
"I was wondering when you'd show up," he greeted them. His voice was creepy, giving Lana the chills. "Leandra was so sure you'd come for her."
"You bastard!" Hawke spat, "I'm going to kill you!"
"Quentin!" Gascard shouted, stepping forwards.
"Gascard! So you've reached me after all these years!" the killer replied, amused. "I figured you'd give up!" Hawke turned to the Orlesian Bloodmage in shock.
"What?" she exclaimed, "You lying dirt-bag, Gascard! Why didn't you tell me his name was Quentin?"
"You promised you'd teach me, Quentin!" Du Puis yelled, ignoring Hawke, "You're going to deliver on that promise!"
"I promised to teach you, Gascard...But not teach you everything," Quentin corrected. He turned back to the chair then, staring down at its inhabitant. "When my wife died I lost all hope. I was not able to be the mentor you deserved. But now...my work is finished. I am free to teach you everything...if you join me..."
"You'll let me be a part of this?" Gascard asked interestedly. "You'll teach me the ins and outs of necromancy?" Hawke couldn't believe her ears.
"Come over to my side, Gascard," Quentin enticed, beckoning him. Du Puis smiled and made to move towards him, his dream finally coming true.
"I don't think so!" Hawke exclaimed in a fit of rage. She slashed her dagger so quick that no one saw it move. A splash of blood decorated the nearby wall and Gascard hovered on the spot. Suddenly a gash appeared on his throat and his head slid from his torso, falling to the ground with a sickening crunch. Anders, who was standing beside him, wiped the blood from his face and stared at Lana in shock. That was brutal even for her.
Hawke turned back to Quentin, murder in her eyes.
"Where is my mother!?" she demanded, breathing heavily. Quentin smiled.
"Do you know what the strongest force in the universe is?" he asked, walking back towards the chair and looking down into it.
"ME!" Lana replied strongly, "When someone messes with my family!"
"I can vouch for that," Anders added in a small voice. Varric and Lana glared at him. Quentin snorted.
"Love," he said answering his own question. "I pieced her together from memory...I found her eyes, her skin, her delicate fingers..."
Hawke shook her head, her hands sweating on her daggers. Quentin reached down and raised the figure's head who was sitting on the chair.
"...and at last...her face!" he continued. "Oh, this beautiful face!" Suddenly the figure got to its feet. It seemed to be in some sort of wedding dress. "I've searched far and wide to find you again beloved."
The zombie-like figure turned to face them. Hawke's mouth fell open, her chest tightening. Her heart stopped dead. Blood of Andraste! There, standing before her, was all that was left of her mother. Every inch of Leandra's skin was sewn together roughly, mismatched in places as though from a different body. Her face was blackened and rotted, eyes as white as the moon, empty and hollow inside. The white dress was covered in blood and dirt, torn in places revealing the extent of her torture. How she was even standing was a miracle. This was obviously a combination of blood magic and necromancy. It was the sickest form of magic Anders, Varric and Hawke had ever seen.
All of a sudden the ground burst open around them. Skeletons! Lana still couldn't move though. As the others began to fight around her she simply stared, broken-hearted at her abomination of a mother who was shuffling towards her. As she neared, Lana reached out to touch her. Suddenly a shield erupted around her, cast by Quentin.
"She is mine now," he sneered, hiding in his own magical shield. Hawke started to lose control. Her entire body shook in fury and she charged forwards with her daggers.
"You bastard!" she shouted in a fit of rage, attacking the shield which was protecting him with everything she had. Quentin laughed from behind it, knowing he was safe even as the giant pieces tore away with Hawke's blades. Demons and shades began to close in on Lana from behind then, surrounding her. She directed herself towards them, unleashing the sheer fury that boiled in her blood. It was darker than any tainted creature and ten times more powerful...and she couldn't control it. There was hatred inside her she had never felt before and it was all she could do to keep her head. As each of her enemies fell to the ground in pieces she felt her self slip away into the blackness, until all that remained was her hunger for revenge.
By now Aveline, Isabela, Fenris and Merrill had arrived. After their initial shock (to put it lightly) of seeing Leandra they immediately joined the fray. Isabela fought her way through until she found Hawke, battling with a demon by herself. She rushed over to help her. Maker's Breath, she looks... No word in the Rivaini's head seemed to be able to describe Lana's expression. Isabela was just glad she was on her side. She cut down the creatures attacking her, protecting the only person she was here for.
When all the dark creatures were dead Quentin's shield disappeared. Lana lunged for him right away, feeling his magic assault her body as she advanced. But she couldn't feel the pain. The mage's spells, however powerful, were not enough against such sheer hatred and before her could stop her, Lana had grasped him by the neck and was strangling him to death without a hint of mercy. Die, you son of a bitch! Quentin choked and spluttered, feeling Hawke's fingers close around his windpipe. He scratched and clawed at her to get her away, his mana draining with his strength. Then after several minutes, his eyes went blank. For good measure, Lana snapped his neck, feeling pleasure at the crack which echoed off the walls around them.
The only sound which broke the silence was Lana's heavy breaths. Every one of her companions was staring at her in utter shock. They had never seen anyone lose control like that, let alone charming, sarcastic, lovable Hawke. Suddenly something began to approach from behind. The others separated as Leandra staggered over to her daughter. Hawke jumped to her feet.
"Mother!" she screamed, running forwards. She reached out and caught Leandra before the woman hit the floor. Lana lowered her to the ground gently, holding what remained of her in her arms. "Mother!" she cried, feeling the tears fall from her face. "I'm sorry...I'm so sorry!"
Lana held her tightly, rocking her back and forth. Leandra looked up at her.
"I...knew you'd come," she said weakly.
"D-Don't move, Mother. We'll find a way to..." Lana was lost for words. This can't be happening!
"Sshh," Leandra soothed, staring up into her eldest daughters distraught face. She reached up and stroked her cheek as best she could. "Don't fret darling...That man would have kept me trapped down here...You freed me."
"I should have been there for you!...Protected you better!" Lana said, "I...forgive me Mother...I failed you."
"There's nothing to forgive...Lana," Leandra whispered, shaking her head, "I...I've b-been a terrible mother to you. Carver's death wasn't your fault...I-I'm so sorry, my love. Its better this way...Now I can't hurt you anymore."
"No!" Lana said, shaking her head. "You can't leave me! Don't leave me here alone!" She ran her hand through her mother's hair, feeling the air leave her lungs. She pulled her in close, smelling the familiar flowery scent of her mother, reminding her of her childhood.
"I have to, Lana," Leandra said, a tear leaking out of the corner of her eye, "At...At least I'll see Carver and your father again..."
Hawke couldn't speak anymore she touched the hand her mother had placed on her cheek, feeling the warmth leave her already. She didn't have much time left. No, please!
"Lana..." Leandra breathed, struggling to stay alive, "Listen to me...I never stopped loving you...You've always made me proud." Tears were streaming down Lana's face as she watched her mother fade away in her arms. "Please..." Leandra begged, "Please forgive me...for everything..."
Hawke tightened her hand around her mothers, trying to find the words. After everything her mother had put her through, every time she had disowned her, every time she had blamed her for her little brother's death, called her an embarrassment, threw her out onto the street, slated her for loving women...and now she was asking for forgiveness? Lana swallowed hard. It was a lot to consider with such little time. Her mother stared up at her, waiting desperately, clinging on to hear her answer. Lana opened her mouth, struggling to find the words.
Suddenly Leandra's hand slipped from hers and went limp. Her eyes went blank, staring at nothing ever again.
"Mother?" Hawke whispered, shaking her a little. Leandra didn't move. "Mother!?" Still nothing. She was gone. "MOTHER!" Hawke cried, leaning down and burying her face in her Leandra's hair. "I forgive you," she wept, holding her tight, shaking her back and forth, "I forgive you!"
All of Hawke's companions watched in disbelief as Lana fell to pieces, hugging her dead mother and repeating her forgiveness over and over again. Her entire body was heaving with sobs, her cries the only sound in the foundry basement. It was a heartbreaking sound from such a strong woman. Not one of her friends knew what to do.
"Anders?" Hawke asked desperately, turning to the mage, staring up at him through her tears, "Please, do something! Help her!"
Anders looked close to tears himself. "I'm sorry, Hawke," he said gently, "Quentin's magic was all that was holding her to this world...I can't do anything, I'm so sorry!"
Hawke let out a squeak of despair, "Merrill?" she asked, looking up desperately. The Dalish elf was sobbing silently, unable to speak.
"There's nothing anyone can do, Hawke," Varric said sadly.
"Bethany..." Lana cried, hugging Leandra to her once more.
Isabela bit her lip, trying to hold herself together. She hated Leandra for everything she had done to Hawke, but if there had have been a way to bring her back right now she would have done it in a heart beat. The look on Lana's face was tearing her apart to see. She's inconsolable...I can't see her like this anymore. Realising no one was able to do anything for sheer shock, the pirate bent down beside Hawke. She touched her hair.
"Hawke?" she asked, gently, caressing the woman's dark brown hair as she clung to Leandra tightly. Maker, what am I supposed to do? Isabela thought to herself. Nothing I say is going to make a difference. She touched Lana's hand, trying to relinquish her grip on Leandra. "Come here..."
Lana shook her head, "No, I can't let her go...I can't!"
"She's gone, Hawke," Isabela said gently, "I'm sorry..."
When Lana didn't budge Isabela looked back to the others for support. They all suddenly came to their senses then and crowded round, prying Lana gently away from Leandra's disintegrating body. Merrill was crying silently to herself in the corner as Aveline lay Leandra gently down on the ground. Her body was so fragile if they moved her she would fall apart, now that the magic holding her together had left. That was the last thing Lana needed to see.
Isabela reached down and lifted Lana to her feet, wrapping her arm around her waist. She could feel her shake uncontrollably under her touch. Maker's Breath, she's going to collapse! The woman swayed unsteadily. Fenris supported her from the other side then and both he and the Rivaini wrapped their arm around her together. Suddenly Hawke doubled over on all fours and threw up the contents of her stomach. The pirate cringed and bent over beside her, rubbing her back gently and holding back the woman's long, dark hair until she was finished.
"Sshh," the pirate soothed, "Come on, let's get you out of here. It stinks."
Hawke straightened up and allowed Isabela and Fenris to guide her back out of the foundry. They followed behind the others as Aveline led the way. Isabela glanced down at Lana worriedly every few seconds. The woman seemed to have gone into shock. Not that I blame her. The pirate held her tighter then, allowing Fenris to relinquish his grip once they reached the exits, all of them wishing they had never set foot in that Maker-forsaken place.
"I'll take her home," Isabela said, her arm around Lana's waist.
"Over my dead body!" Aveline exclaimed angrily, as though everything that had just happened was the pirate's fault.
Isabela snorted, "Nice expression, Big Girl... Great timing!"
Aveline cringed. Damn it! "Give her to me," she growled, "You're probably the last person she wants to see right now! You'll only make things worse!"
"Are you two actually going to fight about this?" Varric asked in disbelief. "After everything that has just happened?"
"Get out of the bloody way, Aveline!" Isabela said irritated, "I'm taking her home whether you like it or not."
Reluctantly the Guardswoman bit her tongue and stepped aside, allowing the pirate to guide an almost comatose Hawke through the streets and back to her Estate. Aveline glared after them both, not trusting the Rivaini as far as she could throw her. She had messed with Hawke one too many times. Aveline would be watching her from now own.
As Isabela and Hawke reached the Estate, Bodhan opened the door.
"By the Maker! What happened?" the dwarf asked hysterically, seeing Lana slung across the Rivaini.
"Not now, Bodhan. She needs rest," Isabela said, guiding Hawke into the house and up the stairs. As soon as they were in Lana's bedroom she closed the door behind them and placed Hawke down on the bed. The woman sat still, staring at the ground. Isabela sat down beside her, extremely uncomfortable in these types of situations.
"I...I feel I should say...something," the pirate said, feeling stupid. Lana glanced up at her.
"It's alright," she said hoarsely, "I know you're not good at...emotional stuff."
The pirate sighed. "I'm sorry," she said softly, pushing back Lana's hair back behind her ears. The woman's beautiful face was lined with so much pain right now. Isabela wished there was something she could do to help her.
"I guess this is what it feels like to be an orphan," Hawke replied in a small voice. Isabela placed a hand on her thigh, squeezing her reassuringly.
"Family's not just the people you're related to by blood, Hawke. There are other people who care about you." Lana looked up into the Rivaini's eyes then. They both stared, becoming lost in each other as they so often did. Amber eyes piercing chocolate-brown ones. Isabela could see the sadness in Lana's, wishing for someone to come and save her. The Rivaini so longed to lean in and kiss her, make her forget just for a second. But the woman wasn't emotionally stable for anything like that right now. Isabela placed a hand on her cheek instead then, caressing it gently.
"Like who?" Lana asked dejectedly, feeling more alone than ever. Isabela hesitated.
"Like...Aveline," she blurted, unable to say what was on her mind. Great, now I'm putting a word in for the Big Girl instead...Oh Isabela you daft bitch!
The pirate's hand fell from Lana's cheek then. I can't do this sort of thing. She got to her feet, feeling as completely inadequate in these situations as she always did. She longed to tell Hawke how much she cared for her, but she couldn't explain it. It's not like I'm in love with her... I just...like her. The Rivaini pushed Hawke down gently then, making her lay back on the bed.
"Get some rest, Hawke," she whispered, "Try not to think about it all."
Lana allowed Isabela to pull the covers over her. She was still in shock from everything that had happened. Her body felt like it was cracking into tiny pieces. The pirate blew out the candle on the bedside table then said goodbye and left the bedroom, leaving Lana to her thoughts. Hawke lay awake for hours, unable to etch the image of her mother's mangled body from her mind. Despite everything that had happened, she managed to cry herself into a deep sleep then, hoping and praying that she would never wake up so that she didn't have to face her grief again in the morning.