Chapter Text
When Leannah Hawke is eight she asks where her parents are. Aunt Bethany tells her sadly that they both passed away when she was a baby. But she tells her all about her mother, how she was there when the mages broke free of the Chantry. When Leannah asks about her father Bethany tells her to wash up for supper.
“Why do I have to learn sword fighting? I’m a mage.” Leannah grumbles as she dodges a slow swing from Uncle Fenris.
“I have to teach you something, this is what I am good at.” He explains. Fenris usually talks to Leannah like she’s a grown up, she likes that.
“What about Carter? I never see you teaching him anymore.” Leannah grunts as she lands a hit on Fenris’ side.
“Another one of those and you’ll kill me. Your cousin has decided he’d rather learn dagger fighting from Zevran.” Fenris rolls his eyes, making Leannah giggle.
“Aunt Bethany told me about my mother. She said she died fighting demons.” She asked. Fenris let out a heavy sigh.
“She did. She was trapped in the Fade. I suppose she could be alive, but it’s unlikely.” He taps her on the arm with the wooden greatsword.
“Ouch! She wouldn’t tell me about my father.” Leannah swung hard, lightning sparked when the practice swords met.
“How badly do you want to know about him?” Fenris asked, putting his sword down.
“Just tell me, I’m not a baby.” Leannah scrunched her face up in determination. Fenris sighed again,
“He was more interested in rescuing your mother than caring for you. He gave you to Varric and Varric brought you here.” He explained. Leannah stabbed her practice sword into the dirt.
“What was he like?” She asked.
“We didn’t get along. But… he loved your mother more than anything. And he was a powerful mage.” Fenris paused, “He’s the reason you’re not locked in a tower.” He stepped forward and put a hand on her shoulder. At only eight Leannah was already past his waist, all arms and legs, “You belong right here, in this house.” He said. Leannah nodded.
“I know. It’s just… everyone else has a mother and a father. I wanted to know why I don’t.” She shrugged. Fenris nodded,
“I understand.”