One day you'll see me covered in mud and, I don't know, demon guts and you'll rethink that.
[ He playfully shakes a finger at Steven before he steps out of his house and closes the door behind him. No locking it, of course. Hawke never locks his place. ]
The brewery is closer to where I used to live but I don't think we'll mind a walk together first. [ He puts his hands in his pockets for the walk. They've done all sorts of exploring together just like this. Walking and talking. Nothing new for the two of them even with the word date flitting around in the background. ]
I like your hair all messy. It makes you look relaxed. Comfortable. You always seem to dress comfortably. [ Inane small talk, well done Hawke. He rolls his eyes at himself. ]
I admit this is the first time I've tried hard to look nice around you.
[Steven wrinkles his nose at the idea of demon guts.] Was that a common occurrence in Thedas? Seems like a pain in the arse to clean out of your armor.
[Walking and talking like this is rather normal for them and Steven is glad for the routine nature of it as they head out. Usually they'd be headed somewhere more local for a pint or walking between Hawke's home and Steven's in Epiphany, but he's actually looking forward to seeing something new. A brewery is not something Steven would pursue on his own so he's glad to try out something different for once.]
I do like to be comfortable. What's the point of dressing in something that feels stuffy, honestly? Sometimes it's nice to put in more effort though. Just haven't had too many reasons to here, have we? Beyond the magical gala and all.
[He looks over to Hawke with an amused smile at that last statement though.] Well, it's very much appreciated. Not that you have to put much effort in, honestly. I've seen you when you've just barely woken up and you're still annoyingly dashing.
I encountered demons more than most people. [ He shrugs. ] Common enough for me.
[ A walk will hopefully settle both their nerves. Hawke can't hide how he's feeling given his wings. But they've done this times and times before. They can do this again. ]
A gala is a great opportunity for a little bit of fancy but I don't know if it's obvious but I'm not a very fancy lad. [ He grins a little. ] All those years of being nobility in Kirkwall didn't do much for me.
[ He laughs at the mention of how he looks just getting up. Hawke is not his best first thing after waking. He knows his hair is always a mess and he knows there are pillow marks on his face. ] I think annoyingly trashy might be better but enjoy the view all you'd like. Just try to make that view around one in the afternoon.
It's alright, we have that in common: I'm not a very fancy lad either. [A quiet chuckle.] More of a rumpled mess most of the time, but I've fully embraced it.
[That gala had been a nice evening though and definitely not something Steven would have willingly gone to back home. Overall, it went well for him, enjoying a couple dances and great company...
Even with messy hair and pillow face though, Steven thinks he looks good. Perhaps he's biased but he's thought Hawke is handsome from their first conversation, and befriending him has only solidified his good looks with the supplemental benefit of being friends. Genuine friends.]
Why do you sleep in so late? I've been meaning to ask. Are you just more of a night owl then?
I do stay up late. Usually go to bed around midnight. I can get up early if I have a good reason but generally I don't see the point in getting out of my nice cozy bed. Trials are a good example of getting up early. Or if a student asks.
[ Usually those got him out of bed really fast. There was danger and weirdness to respond to. He also sometimes got yanked out of his bed because of the Trial and couldn't sleep in. ]
Sleep is a bit dangerous, of course, because of the Fade and demons and all that but I really like sleep. [ He laughs at himself. ] It's just nice. Feels good. Cozy, like I said.
[ He looks over at Steven, an eyebrow raised. ] You're a morning person, aren't you?
Mm, I remember reading about that in one of the books you lent me. Seems scary, not even getting a chance to trust your dreams. [Fenris had also given him some insight into how dreams are dangerous for mages, though Steven knows the elf well enough to understand his perspective may be skewed.]
Well... [He almost looks guilty about it, wrinkling his nose some.] I am here, in any case. Epiphany's rains help me sleep very well here and I so appreciate it. Back home, I had a... sleeping disorder, of sorts. [Of sorts.] I found it difficult to fall asleep but also when I did, I'd end up... sleepwalking. It's not an issue here though.
[Technically, none of that is a lie! A part of Steven feels guilty though for not telling the whole truth, but even if he does one day, now is definitely not the correct time.]
It's very nice waking up before everyone else in the flat though and enjoying a cuppa first thing in the morning on the balcony. It's peaceful. As much crap as I give Folkmore sometimes, there's no denying the place's beauty where you can find some.
Personally, I'd rather be able to control the Fade instead of being at it's mercy like normal dreamers. Or not dream at all! [ It's scary, yes, but the Fade is also a place Hawke is deeply connected to. It's where his magic comes from. Even with the danger but that's been the case of his life from his magic first showed up. ] But I don't remember dreaming normally so I could be speaking out my ass.
[ He listens and wonders if there's anything magic could do for Steven's dreams but probably not. Those powers don't exist in Steven's world. He's got no troubles here so it's rather pointless, isn't it? ] Maybe you're a somniari and don't even know it.
[ He nudges him with an elbow. ] Full of magic and you don't even know it. Traveling your world's version of the Fade. Just so happens you travel your physical world as well.
A somniari? [Steven repeats the word carefully, eyes bright with curiosity. Every new thing he learns about Thedas is so interesting to him, and he has half a mind to reread the works by Brother Genitivi that Hawke gave him. They were right up Steven's alley.] Is that what they do then? Travel through the Fade like it's a walk in the park?
[The idea of Steven having any sort of magic within him is certainly exciting, though he isn't sure if that would be the case back home, even if it's fun to think about. Are the gifts that Folkmore gave him considered magical? He wonders sometimes.]
Mine was more like... going to sleep and then waking up somewhere else, without any memory of why or how I got there. [He shrugs like it's no big deal now.] I'm grateful I don't have to worry about it here.
Yeah, they're real masters of the Fade. It's a Dalish technique but the name is Tevene. I think it means dreamer? [ He mostly knows Tevinter curses. Thanks Fenris! ] I've only dealt with one but even young he had incredible power. He could see right through all the illusions.
[ Steven is magical. Everyone is magical here. ]
Sounds like me after a wild night at the Hanged Man. [ He laughs deeply then clears his throat and rubs a hand through his hair. ] I mean, that was probably terrifying for you. Sorry you had that at home. Maybe that's one of the things Folkmore will help fix. So you can go back without that sleeping problem.
Magic is so vast and complex, it sounds like. I know we talk about it often but it absolutely fascinates me! I don't know what I'd do with that kind of power though. I don't know if I'd want it other than to help people. [He had a similar conversation with Fenris once, but it's always so interesting to him hearing the differing opinions between Fenris and Hawke on the matter of magic.
Hawke's laugh earns a little smirk out of Steven. He likes the man's laugh - it's always so loud and full, like he doesn't hold back from anything he's feeling when he's happy. At least, Steven hopes he's happy. Those wings were flickering earlier but he hopes it was just because of nervousness.]
It was terrifying at first, yeah. I spent so much of my life thinking it was normal to always be so exhausted, but then I figured out why it was happening and that made it less scary. I came here before I could find out if it's stopped though. [He's toeing a dangerous line here but he doesn't like keeping things from close friends, including Hawke, and he's opened up to Hawke more than anyone about little parts of his life so far.
The idea of going back home feels so impossible sometimes though and the thought now pangs a little in his chest for some reason.]
I wonder what it would be like... going home. Would the people we know from home still be stuck here without us? Would we see them again in our home realms? I hate the thought of abandoning everyone here, even if I know it isn't right for us to stay.
I don't mind talking about it. At home I'd never get to have these conversations. It's nice to hear so many people react so positively to magic. [ It's one of the things he'd miss most when he went back to Thedas. His magic would have to be a shameful secret again. ]
From everything I've heard you don't remember. [ He shrugs. ] You go back and it's like you were never here. It's an odd thing I've been wondering about. Doesn't seem like a good lesson if you forget it the second you're gone.
[ There's probably some sort of deeper lesson there. Hawke's not the best at thinking up the deeper lessons in life. He's always been more emotional than intellectual. ]
But you're right. In the end we can't stay. I know I have many things I've got to fix back home even if I'm happier on my farm here. [ He nudges Steven with an elbow. ] Happier with some of the people I've met here too.
I agree, I don't understand it, really. That's why I think her true goal is to just keep us here for as long as possible. The arbitrary nature of it all is... disconcerting.
[To put it lightly. Not that Steven is trying to be a downer here but it's something he thinks about often, especially not knowing what sort of situation he'll be returning to if and when he goes get back to Earth.]
Folkmore offers a much simpler life than what many people here have back home, doesn't it? A peaceful one... outside of the occasional trial. [And after reading the book about Hawke's life, he understands why Hawke would want to settle down on a farm here and make the best of things. He deserves it.
The nudge has Steven rocking to one side as he walks playfully, and then he rocks back toward Hawke instead, nudging him right back with his own arm. It's a simple compliment but it makes him feel warm inside.] I'll be your favorite until Varric arrives and then I'm chopped liver. [He laughs, just teasing.] Hell, I wouldn't even blame you, he seems like a fun bloke.
[ And maybe that's all they are. Entertainment. Hawke's not sure but a spirit as powerful as Thirteen was not to be taken lightly. There's too much power there. ]
Varric's the best! [ Look, there's no denying how much he loves his best friend. That's so much the truth. ] But I'd still bring you with on our adventures. You, Varric, and Fenris. We could have a whole bunch of adventures around here together.
[ The brewery comes into view with the main building and then fields of hops. The owner is there too. A crow spirit who seems to know Hawke on some level as they address each other by name and then motions for them to follow him. ]
I met Tempest wandering around one day. He said if I ever wanted a tour to just ask.
We'd have our own little team, huh? [Steven chuckles at the thought.] I do often wonder what's beyond Exile, don't you? I know we're discouraged from going beyond but... that only makes it more intriguing.
[He doubts there would be any way "out" but what if there's more to Folkmore than they know, like how Tides appeared out of the blue?
Steven is a little surprised to find that Hawke is friendly with this spirit already, and he wonders if he's been here before. The explanation makes so much sense, especially for someone like Hawke who's so friendly.]
Have you come here before or are we experiencing this for the first time together? [He asks, stepping closer to Hawke as they follow the spirit, eyes looking around the fields curiously as the crow spirit leads them along the edge of the crops.]
I believe the magic in Exile will turn you back. [ He's never gone too deeply in there but he knows it's littered with dark powers and dangerous creatures. He wouldn't explore there without his armor. ]
I didn't think a tour would be as interesting on my own. [ He shrugs. ] And you're always so curious about things, all sorts of things, I thought you and your questions would make it more interesting. I'll certainly learn more bringing you along.
[ His smile is a little softer, a little warmer. ]
And I just like any excuse to spend time with you.
[If only there was a way around some of the magic in this place. It's frustrating being cooped up at times, when Steven wants to explore and discover, but the fact that they're not allowed to reminds him of how much of a prison this place truly is.
Ah, alas. He shouldn't be thinking about that! He's on a date.
The way Hawke smiles at him is so warm and sweet, Steven can't help the way his face heats up, cheeks a bit pink from the open affection. He returns it with a soft one of his own though, and after a moment of contemplation, he opts to reach over and loop his arm through Hawke's as they walk.]
I've never seen hops plants like this before, it's actually very interesting. I wonder how difficult they are to grow... [His voice trails off as the spirit leading them pipes in to offer some Very Interesting Hops Facts, which Steven is genuinely curious about, though he's focused more on the heat of Hawke's body beside him where their arms are still linked.]
[ The hops are grown vertically on trellis and stretch tall over their heads. Their tour guide explains about the planting, tending, and harvesting of hops with an obvious love of the work.
Hawke tucks Steven's arm through his making sure it's secure. They are pressed a little close together but it's really no different than the gala when they did the same. It's less intimate than dancing together. Still, a warm flush spreads outwards from Hawke's chest. His wings turn a softer, gentler flame, reflecting his emotions. ]
We could try to grow some on my farm. One or two plants if you'd really like to see how hard they are. [ Because what's giving over one more corner of his farm to Steven's interests? ] I think beer's already vegan but you could make sure that way!
[ Hawke is still learning what counts for vegan and what doesn't. It's very... intense. ]
Only if you want to grow it. You've got a fancy new farm and all, I don't want to ruin your system. Besides, we can always come here. [Steven is easy, never having thought much about growing his own plants back home, but mostly because he didn't have the space for it. He gets great enjoyment out of watching Hawke work on his farm and then enjoy the fruit of his labors, and it feels far fresher that way too.]
Fun fact most people don't realize: most beers, ciders, and wines aren't vegan. [He pipes up quickly.] It's because animal products are usually used in the filtration of the alcohol, so it doesn't end up looking cloudy and mangy. I've... indulged a time or two when there were no other options but I try not to.
[He is definitely not a perfect vegan... but he tries his best. Chocolate is his greatest weakness.]
It would be fun to make some ourselves though and see if it still tastes right.
I don't have a system. [ Hawke laughs softly. ] I just sort of grow whatever works in that season and what others might want me to grow.
[ It's a sort of piece meal farm where Hawke grows what he wants and whatever else his friends might want as well. If he had some sort of plan he might do better and maybe he should with the larger farm but he just likes growing. ]
Wait... so you're saying every time I've invited you out for a drink I've been insulting your veganism? [ Which actually makes sense because Hawke is sort of awful at trying to do nice things. He feels so bad! He groans. ]
Maker's balls I can't believe I've been such an idiot! I haven't even asked after knowing you're vegan! [ He drops his head forward, leaning a little harder into Steven. ] I'm such an ass.
I do enjoy when you send me pictures of the weird harvest. Like those wonky cucumbers? [He grins.] Even better when they're misshapen and imperfect.
[Plus... he doesn't mind getting more random selfies and moments from Hawke's day, alright? It's sweet.
There's a shift there from Steven's fun fact that has Hawke worrying and Steven feels bad crushing the man's reality in that way. He hadn't meant to make him feel bad but the worry in Hawke's tone is sweet, and Steven tries his best to be reassuring, patting Hawke's forearm with his free hand.]
Oi, oi, don't worry your pretty head about it. [Another little chuckle.] Trust me, if I hadn't wanted to join you for a drink, I would've refused or ordered something else. I didn't take it as an insult. Most people have no clue about that filtration process and why would they? I only know because I'm a nosy vegan.
[He pats his arm a little more.] Besides, I cheat here and there all the time. I'm hardly a saint with my own diet.
Maybe I will grow some and find a way to make it so you can drink it without feeling guilty. [ He's going to learn all about the brewing and filtration process anyway because they're heading into the brew house. Where they meet the owner's wife, another crow spirit named Bells.
And then it's back to the business of brewing beer which is way more intense and complicated than Hawke ever gave it credit for before. It's going to be more than growing hops and making like hop tea or something. ]
This is... a lot of work. [ He looks over at Steven to see if he's as overwhelmed as Hawke is. ] Maybe I stick with weird cucumbers and strawberry bushes that are bent on world domination.
There's definitely ways! It just might look a little different from the ale you're used to, but as long as it tastes good, yeah? [It's sweet that Hawke even wants to try and put in that effort, though Steven is also very curious about how that would come out. Either way, he's smiling gratefully up at the other man.] It'll be a fun experiment.
[The various tanks and other devices are hard at work with the fermenting and filtering and everything else. The process of brewing beer is definitely more complex than Steven knew too but he's clearly curious throughout the explanation, also finding it sweet that a pair of spirits have a business like this going. He had no idea. He also had no idea spirits could get married.]
Well... there's always the option of trying out some moonshine instead. Not that I'd know the first step of that. [He laughs brightly, patting Hawke's arm again as he adds:] Luckily, I fancy your weird cucumbers and strawberry bushes.
I see. You're only with me for my vegetables and fruits. [ Hawke shifts his arm to drape across Steven's shoulders, bringing them even closer. It's been nice having Steven holding his arm but well, Hawke's feeling comfortable and bold. It's just been so long since he's been physically close to anyone as well. He's missed this. A lot. ]
The frost is coming though so I don't have much more time to grow things. I'm moving a few plants to the greenhouse so I can keep them growing them. Mint so you'll have your fresh tea at least.
[ The spirits are much like people Hawke's found. They're just also spirits with many different forms. He can't say he full trusts them but they're better than what he knows at home. ]
I keep wanting to offer you fresh eggs from my chickens and ducks but I remember you don't eat those.
[Steven laughs, a nervous trill as Hawke's arm loops around him, but he's pleased about that shift of arms as he tucks into Hawke's side closer.]
You caught me, mate. I've only befriended you for the free veg. Now when do you start growing squash?
[He's only kidding of course, nudging Hawke's side with his elbow. The crows stop to fly up toward the top of one of the machines to check on something and Steven takes the opportunity to enjoy a moment simply leaning into Hawke as they wait, hands nervously picking at each other as they remain clasped in front of him.]
I started growing some tomatoes on our balcony from the plant you gave me. It's coming out nicely, I think. Tut hasn't knocked it over yet which is promising. [He looks up at his friend with that ever-present smile, feeling like his cheeks are going to fall off his face at this point.] Marc and Layla would eat them, so I'm always happy to take some off your hands anyway. Not that I need more excuses to pop over unannounced but...
[ His heart jumps in his chest as Steven cuddles closer. It's exactly what Hawke was hoping for. It's nice. Really nice. ]
You'll have to move those tomatoes inside. They're not going to survive the cold. First frost of the season and they'll die. [ Not that they could survive the winter inside. There's no promise of that because tomatoes are tricky bastards to grow. ] The chances of them getting knocked over are increased but they're better than outside.
[ He hugs Steven's shoulders. ] You are always welcome. And if you want to take some eggs back for your friends, go right ahead. Although, I have more uses for those than most vegetables. But the chickens are pretty productive!
[ They're offered samples from one of the kegs and Hawke takes both, not sure if Steven's going to want to drink them or not because of the veganism. ]
Duck eggs are really rich which is why it's good they're small. I like to hard boil them for an afternoon snack.
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[ He playfully shakes a finger at Steven before he steps out of his house and closes the door behind him. No locking it, of course. Hawke never locks his place. ]
The brewery is closer to where I used to live but I don't think we'll mind a walk together first. [ He puts his hands in his pockets for the walk. They've done all sorts of exploring together just like this. Walking and talking. Nothing new for the two of them even with the word date flitting around in the background. ]
I like your hair all messy. It makes you look relaxed. Comfortable. You always seem to dress comfortably. [ Inane small talk, well done Hawke. He rolls his eyes at himself. ]
I admit this is the first time I've tried hard to look nice around you.
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[Walking and talking like this is rather normal for them and Steven is glad for the routine nature of it as they head out. Usually they'd be headed somewhere more local for a pint or walking between Hawke's home and Steven's in Epiphany, but he's actually looking forward to seeing something new. A brewery is not something Steven would pursue on his own so he's glad to try out something different for once.]
I do like to be comfortable. What's the point of dressing in something that feels stuffy, honestly? Sometimes it's nice to put in more effort though. Just haven't had too many reasons to here, have we? Beyond the magical gala and all.
[He looks over to Hawke with an amused smile at that last statement though.] Well, it's very much appreciated. Not that you have to put much effort in, honestly. I've seen you when you've just barely woken up and you're still annoyingly dashing.
[Seriously, what a problem to have.]
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[ A walk will hopefully settle both their nerves. Hawke can't hide how he's feeling given his wings. But they've done this times and times before. They can do this again. ]
A gala is a great opportunity for a little bit of fancy but I don't know if it's obvious but I'm not a very fancy lad. [ He grins a little. ] All those years of being nobility in Kirkwall didn't do much for me.
[ He laughs at the mention of how he looks just getting up. Hawke is not his best first thing after waking. He knows his hair is always a mess and he knows there are pillow marks on his face. ] I think annoyingly trashy might be better but enjoy the view all you'd like. Just try to make that view around one in the afternoon.
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[That gala had been a nice evening though and definitely not something Steven would have willingly gone to back home. Overall, it went well for him, enjoying a couple dances and great company...
Even with messy hair and pillow face though, Steven thinks he looks good. Perhaps he's biased but he's thought Hawke is handsome from their first conversation, and befriending him has only solidified his good looks with the supplemental benefit of being friends. Genuine friends.]
Why do you sleep in so late? I've been meaning to ask. Are you just more of a night owl then?
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[ Usually those got him out of bed really fast. There was danger and weirdness to respond to. He also sometimes got yanked out of his bed because of the Trial and couldn't sleep in. ]
Sleep is a bit dangerous, of course, because of the Fade and demons and all that but I really like sleep. [ He laughs at himself. ] It's just nice. Feels good. Cozy, like I said.
[ He looks over at Steven, an eyebrow raised. ] You're a morning person, aren't you?
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Well... [He almost looks guilty about it, wrinkling his nose some.] I am here, in any case. Epiphany's rains help me sleep very well here and I so appreciate it. Back home, I had a... sleeping disorder, of sorts. [Of sorts.] I found it difficult to fall asleep but also when I did, I'd end up... sleepwalking. It's not an issue here though.
[Technically, none of that is a lie! A part of Steven feels guilty though for not telling the whole truth, but even if he does one day, now is definitely not the correct time.]
It's very nice waking up before everyone else in the flat though and enjoying a cuppa first thing in the morning on the balcony. It's peaceful. As much crap as I give Folkmore sometimes, there's no denying the place's beauty where you can find some.
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[ He listens and wonders if there's anything magic could do for Steven's dreams but probably not. Those powers don't exist in Steven's world. He's got no troubles here so it's rather pointless, isn't it? ] Maybe you're a somniari and don't even know it.
[ He nudges him with an elbow. ] Full of magic and you don't even know it. Traveling your world's version of the Fade. Just so happens you travel your physical world as well.
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[The idea of Steven having any sort of magic within him is certainly exciting, though he isn't sure if that would be the case back home, even if it's fun to think about. Are the gifts that Folkmore gave him considered magical? He wonders sometimes.]
Mine was more like... going to sleep and then waking up somewhere else, without any memory of why or how I got there. [He shrugs like it's no big deal now.] I'm grateful I don't have to worry about it here.
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[ Steven is magical. Everyone is magical here. ]
Sounds like me after a wild night at the Hanged Man. [ He laughs deeply then clears his throat and rubs a hand through his hair. ] I mean, that was probably terrifying for you. Sorry you had that at home. Maybe that's one of the things Folkmore will help fix. So you can go back without that sleeping problem.
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Hawke's laugh earns a little smirk out of Steven. He likes the man's laugh - it's always so loud and full, like he doesn't hold back from anything he's feeling when he's happy. At least, Steven hopes he's happy. Those wings were flickering earlier but he hopes it was just because of nervousness.]
It was terrifying at first, yeah. I spent so much of my life thinking it was normal to always be so exhausted, but then I figured out why it was happening and that made it less scary. I came here before I could find out if it's stopped though. [He's toeing a dangerous line here but he doesn't like keeping things from close friends, including Hawke, and he's opened up to Hawke more than anyone about little parts of his life so far.
The idea of going back home feels so impossible sometimes though and the thought now pangs a little in his chest for some reason.]
I wonder what it would be like... going home. Would the people we know from home still be stuck here without us? Would we see them again in our home realms? I hate the thought of abandoning everyone here, even if I know it isn't right for us to stay.
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From everything I've heard you don't remember. [ He shrugs. ] You go back and it's like you were never here. It's an odd thing I've been wondering about. Doesn't seem like a good lesson if you forget it the second you're gone.
[ There's probably some sort of deeper lesson there. Hawke's not the best at thinking up the deeper lessons in life. He's always been more emotional than intellectual. ]
But you're right. In the end we can't stay. I know I have many things I've got to fix back home even if I'm happier on my farm here. [ He nudges Steven with an elbow. ] Happier with some of the people I've met here too.
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[To put it lightly. Not that Steven is trying to be a downer here but it's something he thinks about often, especially not knowing what sort of situation he'll be returning to if and when he goes get back to Earth.]
Folkmore offers a much simpler life than what many people here have back home, doesn't it? A peaceful one... outside of the occasional trial. [And after reading the book about Hawke's life, he understands why Hawke would want to settle down on a farm here and make the best of things. He deserves it.
The nudge has Steven rocking to one side as he walks playfully, and then he rocks back toward Hawke instead, nudging him right back with his own arm. It's a simple compliment but it makes him feel warm inside.] I'll be your favorite until Varric arrives and then I'm chopped liver. [He laughs, just teasing.] Hell, I wouldn't even blame you, he seems like a fun bloke.
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[ And maybe that's all they are. Entertainment. Hawke's not sure but a spirit as powerful as Thirteen was not to be taken lightly. There's too much power there. ]
Varric's the best! [ Look, there's no denying how much he loves his best friend. That's so much the truth. ] But I'd still bring you with on our adventures. You, Varric, and Fenris. We could have a whole bunch of adventures around here together.
[ The brewery comes into view with the main building and then fields of hops. The owner is there too. A crow spirit who seems to know Hawke on some level as they address each other by name and then motions for them to follow him. ]
I met Tempest wandering around one day. He said if I ever wanted a tour to just ask.
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[He doubts there would be any way "out" but what if there's more to Folkmore than they know, like how Tides appeared out of the blue?
Steven is a little surprised to find that Hawke is friendly with this spirit already, and he wonders if he's been here before. The explanation makes so much sense, especially for someone like Hawke who's so friendly.]
Have you come here before or are we experiencing this for the first time together? [He asks, stepping closer to Hawke as they follow the spirit, eyes looking around the fields curiously as the crow spirit leads them along the edge of the crops.]
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I didn't think a tour would be as interesting on my own. [ He shrugs. ] And you're always so curious about things, all sorts of things, I thought you and your questions would make it more interesting. I'll certainly learn more bringing you along.
[ His smile is a little softer, a little warmer. ]
And I just like any excuse to spend time with you.
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Ah, alas. He shouldn't be thinking about that! He's on a date.
The way Hawke smiles at him is so warm and sweet, Steven can't help the way his face heats up, cheeks a bit pink from the open affection. He returns it with a soft one of his own though, and after a moment of contemplation, he opts to reach over and loop his arm through Hawke's as they walk.]
I've never seen hops plants like this before, it's actually very interesting. I wonder how difficult they are to grow... [His voice trails off as the spirit leading them pipes in to offer some Very Interesting Hops Facts, which Steven is genuinely curious about, though he's focused more on the heat of Hawke's body beside him where their arms are still linked.]
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Hawke tucks Steven's arm through his making sure it's secure. They are pressed a little close together but it's really no different than the gala when they did the same. It's less intimate than dancing together. Still, a warm flush spreads outwards from Hawke's chest. His wings turn a softer, gentler flame, reflecting his emotions. ]
We could try to grow some on my farm. One or two plants if you'd really like to see how hard they are. [ Because what's giving over one more corner of his farm to Steven's interests? ] I think beer's already vegan but you could make sure that way!
[ Hawke is still learning what counts for vegan and what doesn't. It's very... intense. ]
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Fun fact most people don't realize: most beers, ciders, and wines aren't vegan. [He pipes up quickly.] It's because animal products are usually used in the filtration of the alcohol, so it doesn't end up looking cloudy and mangy. I've... indulged a time or two when there were no other options but I try not to.
[He is definitely not a perfect vegan... but he tries his best. Chocolate is his greatest weakness.]
It would be fun to make some ourselves though and see if it still tastes right.
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[ It's a sort of piece meal farm where Hawke grows what he wants and whatever else his friends might want as well. If he had some sort of plan he might do better and maybe he should with the larger farm but he just likes growing. ]
Wait... so you're saying every time I've invited you out for a drink I've been insulting your veganism? [ Which actually makes sense because Hawke is sort of awful at trying to do nice things. He feels so bad! He groans. ]
Maker's balls I can't believe I've been such an idiot! I haven't even asked after knowing you're vegan! [ He drops his head forward, leaning a little harder into Steven. ] I'm such an ass.
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[Plus... he doesn't mind getting more random selfies and moments from Hawke's day, alright? It's sweet.
There's a shift there from Steven's fun fact that has Hawke worrying and Steven feels bad crushing the man's reality in that way. He hadn't meant to make him feel bad but the worry in Hawke's tone is sweet, and Steven tries his best to be reassuring, patting Hawke's forearm with his free hand.]
Oi, oi, don't worry your pretty head about it. [Another little chuckle.] Trust me, if I hadn't wanted to join you for a drink, I would've refused or ordered something else. I didn't take it as an insult. Most people have no clue about that filtration process and why would they? I only know because I'm a nosy vegan.
[He pats his arm a little more.] Besides, I cheat here and there all the time. I'm hardly a saint with my own diet.
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And then it's back to the business of brewing beer which is way more intense and complicated than Hawke ever gave it credit for before. It's going to be more than growing hops and making like hop tea or something. ]
This is... a lot of work. [ He looks over at Steven to see if he's as overwhelmed as Hawke is. ] Maybe I stick with weird cucumbers and strawberry bushes that are bent on world domination.
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[The various tanks and other devices are hard at work with the fermenting and filtering and everything else. The process of brewing beer is definitely more complex than Steven knew too but he's clearly curious throughout the explanation, also finding it sweet that a pair of spirits have a business like this going. He had no idea. He also had no idea spirits could get married.]
Well... there's always the option of trying out some moonshine instead. Not that I'd know the first step of that. [He laughs brightly, patting Hawke's arm again as he adds:] Luckily, I fancy your weird cucumbers and strawberry bushes.
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The frost is coming though so I don't have much more time to grow things. I'm moving a few plants to the greenhouse so I can keep them growing them. Mint so you'll have your fresh tea at least.
[ The spirits are much like people Hawke's found. They're just also spirits with many different forms. He can't say he full trusts them but they're better than what he knows at home. ]
I keep wanting to offer you fresh eggs from my chickens and ducks but I remember you don't eat those.
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You caught me, mate. I've only befriended you for the free veg. Now when do you start growing squash?
[He's only kidding of course, nudging Hawke's side with his elbow. The crows stop to fly up toward the top of one of the machines to check on something and Steven takes the opportunity to enjoy a moment simply leaning into Hawke as they wait, hands nervously picking at each other as they remain clasped in front of him.]
I started growing some tomatoes on our balcony from the plant you gave me. It's coming out nicely, I think. Tut hasn't knocked it over yet which is promising. [He looks up at his friend with that ever-present smile, feeling like his cheeks are going to fall off his face at this point.] Marc and Layla would eat them, so I'm always happy to take some off your hands anyway. Not that I need more excuses to pop over unannounced but...
[Well... he's happy to have them anyway.]
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You'll have to move those tomatoes inside. They're not going to survive the cold. First frost of the season and they'll die. [ Not that they could survive the winter inside. There's no promise of that because tomatoes are tricky bastards to grow. ] The chances of them getting knocked over are increased but they're better than outside.
[ He hugs Steven's shoulders. ] You are always welcome. And if you want to take some eggs back for your friends, go right ahead. Although, I have more uses for those than most vegetables. But the chickens are pretty productive!
[ They're offered samples from one of the kegs and Hawke takes both, not sure if Steven's going to want to drink them or not because of the veganism. ]
Duck eggs are really rich which is why it's good they're small. I like to hard boil them for an afternoon snack.
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