[How can he not name them? Although, Steven knows the danger of doing that as well, especially with farm animals. He doesn't mean to completely disrupt Hawke's intent with the animals he's brought onto his expanded farm but Steven has always been fond of all animals, and he gets a kick out of the chickens in particular. They're more friendly than people realize!]
Long may she... lay! [He joins in with a silly thrill at the ridiculous toast, knocking his mug into Hawke's before taking a drink. It tastes fresh and light, right up Steven's alley, even if he holds a tiny bit of guilt for indulging. It's not like he does it all the time.]
I wonder if we can convince them to make a vegan batch sometime here. I'm sure there are others in Folkmore who would gladly enjoy that too. [He hums thoughtfully but then takes another little sip, clearly pleased by the taste.] Next time we can find a distillery. You won't have to feel bad about a thing there. Not that you do here either, alright? I'm having a brilliant time.
[ And off Hawke goes to talk to the owner about making a vegan batch, even offering his services to help with whatever's needed since he asking for it special. By the end of the conversation Hawke is shaking hands with the spirit to seal the deal. ]
Alright, we'll have a vegan batch special made for you and other vegans. If you want to add flavors or things you'll have to talk to him. [ He looks very pleased with himself and his wheeling and dealing. ] But he says it's possible that a magical filter could work to get the same clarity without the animal bits.
[ Seriously, he's very pleased with himself. ]
No, I'm having a great time. It's always fun with you though. Don't think I've ever had a bad time.
[The spirits in this place truly are so friendly to all the pesky humans who come and go in their home realm, but Steven has had mostly wonderful experiences with them all, so he isn't too surprised to hear the willingness to help out here. He is a little bashful over how boldly Hawke just walked up to ask though, simply because Steven mentioned it, looking up at him with raised eyebrows and an amused smile.]
Just like that? We should probably offer some spoons, yeah? I can help. A- A tip of some kind? [How does any of that work here?? Are there rules about this sort of thing?
He blinks with open distress over the idea of the crow spirits not getting compensated for helping out but they don't seem too bothered by it, fluttering closer to the pair to continue the tour into the retail portion of the property.]
Well, good, I would hope I don't bore you if you keep wanting to spend time with me. [Steven chuckles, pleased, because he sometimes does wonder if he lives up to people's expectations. He isn't sure that deep-rooted insecurity will ever fully disappear.] Even when we're simply hanging out at your place and reading or something it's... nice.
[ Hawke has rarely hesitated in going after what he wants. It's a trait that got him in a lot of trouble but also got him quite a bit of fame and fortune when he made smarter choices. ]
If you want to, sure, but I'm going to help them make it so they get free labor. And I also get to learn hands on how the brewing thing really works. [ He's been listening to the talks but Hawke is a hands on learner. He does better when he gets to do things for himself. ] You could get something from the giftshop. Maybe a growler of ale for your brother?
[ Because there's plenty of beer for purchase and even some lovely mugs. Hawke, who has plenty of spoons to spend, absolutely buys a few mugs and a growler for himself. They make good ale and he's never worried about running out of spoons here. ]
You're never boring, Steven. [ Hawke says it with tender seriousness. ] You're interesting to listen to and you laugh at my terrible jokes. And they are terrible, let's not pretend. I feel quite at ease with you.
A win/win situation then, yeah? Or... win/win/win with me included. [The idea of Hawke convincing a brewery owner to try a vegan beer just like that is just so amusing and thoughtful, especially knowing it's only because Steven made a comment about the filtration. He isn't used to people wanting to accommodate his lifestyle when he's always been fine figuring it out himself.
It always takes him a minute to remember people mean Marc when they refer to his brother, and he's quick to nod in agreement, thinking both he and Layla might appreciate something to drink. Besides, he needs to thank Layla for helping him calm down for today.]
I'll get him and Layla something both. Her birthday is tomorrow, actually! I got her a book of poetry but maybe she'd appreciate a drink too... [His voice trails off thoughtfully, realizing he doesn't actually know what kind of tastes Layla has.
Either way, he's soon distracted by Hawke's tender words and his attention moves from a wall of glass tumblers to his date, a flutter rising in his chest again. Just hearing that Hawke enjoys his company is wonderful enough but the man is open and easy with his compliments, and they get to Steven every time. He knows he's blushing and his eyes are shifting into a familiar, expressive rose color to match.]
Well, you're lucky I enjoy a good, terrible joke. Some of my favorites, actually. [He brings a hand up to Hawke's arm to squeeze affectionately, trying to ignore the fact that he feels how hard the muscle underneath is. Oh dear.] I feel at ease with you too. I was so nervous coming into today but... I knew I shouldn't have been. You're always great company.
Oh! Should I get her something? [ Hawke has never met Layla. He's heard so much about who she is and some adventures she and Steven have been on while in Folkmore though. He feels like he knows her a little bit. He could get her something because it seems weirdly rude to not get something when you know their birthday is coming. And he sort of knows her through Steven? Maybe.
The nervousness is good! It reassures Hawke that Steven feels something close to what he does. That's nice and strangely settles his own nerves a little bit more. Even though he's been relaxing further and further the longer this tour and time together has gone on. ]
I'm very glad to have met you in this strange place. I will carry the memory of our time together no matter what the rules are of this place. I know I won't forget you. [ He won't let himself forget Steven. Not when he's feeling this warmth and want just looking at Steven. ]
[Steven probably talks about Layla and Marc a little too much when they're simply hanging out together but they are important people in his life and living together has been very nice, actually. At first, he thought it might be too crowded in the apartment but he's been enjoying having roommates, even if he sometimes feels oddly envious of their familiar, sweeter moments. They're a married couple after all. The source of his envy isn't too clear either but he's happy they're getting along better these days too. It's all confusing.]
Oh no, no, don't even worry about it! I don't think we're doing too much, just something the three of us tomorrow. I don't think Layla is one for attention and the like, you know? You should definitely meet sometime though. Maybe next time you come 'round I can introduce you two. [Especially since she helped him get ready for this date and all...
Hawke's words catch him sweetly in the moment and Steven's expression softens, wishing they could really remember all of this when they get back home. It's hard to imagine living a whole life here and meeting new people and not remembering them. Touched, he smiles warmly again, meeting Hawke's eyes.]
I'm glad to have met you too. I don't want to forget. I hope- I hope it's possible. Seems a shame if we can't after sharing so many memories together. [A quiet, almost bashful chuckle.] It's nice to know I've made that much of an impression on you.
Okay. But next time! [ It's probably good that he's not getting a gift. Hawke is pretty terrible at gifts. ] Next time, I'll be more prepared.
[ Preparation would only give Hawke a chance to over think the whole gift and make it terrible but none of his other friends seemed to mind when he got them terrible gifts. He's very lucky that way. ]
You're like no one I've ever met. [ Hawke drapes his arm around Steven's shoulders again. ] Are you feeling hungry after all that? We can grab a bite when you're done shopping and just hang out like we always do.
[ Because hanging out with Steven is one of Hawke's favorite things to do in Folkmore. Add in food and alcohol and Hawke is guaranteed a good night. The only other person he's so at ease with is Fenris. ]
I have no idea what's around here to eat for you... [ He might need to consult the relic... ]
Next time. [He agrees, wondering what that will even be. Should he warn Hawke in advance of his own birthday or will that only make it worse?]
You've never met other awkward bookish types? A shame. [He teases a little self-deprecatingly, but then Hawke's arm is flying around him and another warm little thrill goes through him (and not just because Hawke's wings are literally right there). He nods quickly at the suggestion of food. He can never say no to that.]
I'm sure we can find something around here. Folkmore has been surprisingly accommodating to my diet. Maybe we can take it outside somewhere too and enjoy the view - it's a lovely day, and it's beautiful around here. What do you think?
[And then quieter, more to himself:] I think I will end up getting the growler after all... [Which he is grabbing now, along with some fancy looking tumblers with the place's logo etched onto the glass artfully. A little keepsake. Steven loves buying little reminders of the places he's been and at least this time it's not yet another paperweight.
Either way, he ends up buying his things and as they head outside Steven notices the sun is starting to go down and will probably set within the next hour. A perfect opportunity for an impromptu picnic of sorts.]
Varric was bookish but I rarely saw him awkward about anything. Merrill very awkward and bookish but also very aggressive. [ His friends have small traits here and there like Steven but none of them quite add up to the whole man he's currently spending time with. There's just something about Steven that brings a brightness even when he is awkward as a three legged turtle. ]
I guess if you're a sheep spirit you don't want to be eating sheep. [ Hawke hovers a little while Steven makes his purchases. They shake hands with the owners one more time with Hawke promising again to help with the farm and then off they go to explore what's around the brewery.
They find a little food stand that has something called falafel that Hawke has never had before. ]
So, it's made from chickpeas which aren't chicken and they aren't actually peas? [ The sheer variety of food in Folkmore can be a touch overwhelming to him sometimes. Luckily, Steven seems to know all about it. They're looking for a decent place to sit and watch the sunset, also Steven's idea that Hawke has no problems with. ]
My aggression is saved for when it's really necessary. [If there are things about him that Hawke fancies despite his awkward nature then Steven must be doing something right, and he'll hold onto that realization. Besides, he knows he doesn't have to be perfect around him and that's a huge weight off his shoulders. Hawke likes him as he is, strange quirks and all, and that's... really nice.
Steven is very pleased about the falafel stand and orders for them both, since Hawke seems a little lost, reassuring him he'll enjoy them with the sauces included. He doesn't even think about the fact that one is drenched in garlic and maybe that may give one or both of them terrible breath on a date. It's delicious!
Hawke makes him laugh with the chickpea comment, and as they head around the outskirts of some of the hops fields, they find a private spot to hunker down, Steven setting his bag of gifts down before he simply sits down on the ground without a care. If he'd prepared, he would've brought a blanket, but oh well. Next time.]
No, sorry to disappoint. Chickpeas are a legume and quite versatile! I should make you hummus sometime. I think you'd enjoy that. [Steven grabs for one of the little containers of falafel and opens up the sauces too, scooting in closer to Hawke so he can explain what each one is.] So this is a tahini sauce with lemon, here's the garlic one, and this one's on the hot side, I think - do you like spicy food?
Oooh, careful. You might inspire me with words like that. [ Hawke waggles his eyebrows in his usual ridiculous fashion. An aggressive Steven would be interesting even though Hawke truly likes how sweet and kind he is. It's probably safest to say he likes Steven in all his forms. ]
Legume. [ He repeats the word as he flops down on the ground, somehow not spilling any of his food. Given his life on the run he's quite comfortable eating on the ground with any blankets or anything more than his clothes. ] Do they look like chickens or peas? Is that why they have the name?
[ The food smells good. Hawke really finds it hard to believe there's no meat in it. Spices must make all the difference. ]
Spicy isn't common in Ferelden. Kirkwall had some because it was once ruled by Tevinter and they have a taste for spicy things. I'd say it's alright. Certainly covers up bad food when you need to. [ He fearlessly dips the falafel into the first sauce and then pops it into his mouth to see how it is. ]
They do look a bit like enlarged peas, but they're not green, and a completely different texture. [And whether Hawke is genuinely interested in the origin of the name or not, he's going to get the explanation, because Steven has all sorts of useless information in that noggin of his:] The origin of the word comes from the Latin word cicer, and somewhere down the line the French modernized this to pois chiche, which my lovely people of England eventually modified even further to chich-pease. It's gone through a variety of names over the centuries.
[Does it make any sense? Likely not, but of course Steven knows this.
His eyes are on Hawke upon the man's first bite, almost nervous for his reaction, like this is a part of Steven's life that could make or break their friendship. Not really of course, but Steven is determined to find vegan food that Hawke genuinely enjoys.]
You can be honest with me, I promise it won't hurt my feelings. [Steven offers while taking a bite of his own with a bit of the tahini, clearly pleased with the way he hums and already reaches for more.]
[ He has no real interest in the origin of the name but he doesn't mind it when Steven explains. It's interesting enough even if none of it really means anything to him. It seems to make Steven happy and that's nice. ]
It's good. [ He speaks with his mouth somewhat full because he's a barbarian. When he finishes his mouthful he wipes his mouth on his arm. ] The spice is a bit... intense? I mean, I'm not used to it. But it's not bad.
[ There is a spice tingling his mouth that Hawke's not used to. He really doesn't eat spicy food on his own at all. He's not unhappy about it but it's going to meant he eats slower than before. ]
Do you know how to make this? [ He wiggles one of the falafel balls towards Steven. ] You could teach me and we could cook it together for ourselves.
[He's pleased when Hawke doesn't seem to mind the flavor, and he can tell the man isn't faking it, as Hawke is often very open and forthright about pretty much everything. Hell, it's why they're here on this date to begin with.]
I'm glad it hasn't made you want to spit it out immediately. [Steven chuckles, and then he shrugs a little at the question, considering the difficulty level of making falafel.] Layla knows how, I'm sure she could teach me. I'd be happy to teach you too once I have a better idea of what I'm doing.
[Steven can't stop smiling, his nerves abated and feeling good now, especially now that they've settled down and can just relax for a little while. The view out here is amazing and he turns his attention to the sky for a bit, admiring the orangey hues in the clouds.]
I'm not sure if this is rude to ask but... [His voice trails off as he tries to figure out how to word his question, feeling a little shy about it.] Did you want to ask me out before we danced, or after?
She could teach both of us if that'd be easier for her. [ They'd still be spending time together the way Hawke sees it. He'd also like to meet Steven's friends. He's sure they're good people like Steven. ]
I don't know if it's rude... [ Hawke picks at the falafel for a moment, thinking over the question. ] But I did realize I had romantic feelings for you then. I always recognized that you were handsome and fun, though. That's not anything new to me.
[ Since Anders ripped his heart open and shattered his faith. He thought he would never feel this way about someone again. Steven seems to be the exception to many things. ]
But you really made my heart race and my knees weak dancing with me. A little terrifying, if I'm being honest.
I'm sure she'd be happy to! Her version is slightly different but still delicious. You should come over sometime. [Even though it makes him a little nervous for some reason, it's a good kind of nervous.
He nods a little with Hawke's answer, feeling his face and neck warm again from the easy confession, and it's different to hear from his lips rather than read through text. Steven's never really had someone say these things to him in a romantic context so it's new and scary to him, but also rather exhilarating.]
Yeah? [The word is soft as he looks over to Hawke again, taking in the honesty about it being terrifying. Steven understands why.] What are you afraid of most? If you- If you want to say, that is.
[ Hawke falls back completely on the grass and then looks over at Steven with a sad little smile. ]
If you disappear, I'll be happy because you're home and safe but you will take a piece of my heart with you. I don't have many of those left.
[ He's been picking them up and putting things back together since arriving in Folkmore but he still hasn't put it all back together. And some has gone to Steven which means he has less. ]
When I was younger I would have thrown myself at you and hoped for the best without a care in the world for the consequences. I've lived the consequences of that recklessness. I want to be more careful but I also had a great time with you. I always do.
[He pops one last falafel into his mouth before opting to lean back on an arm beside Hawke, not quite lying down but giving him a good angle to look at his friend. Once again, Steven appreciates that honesty, though he isn't sure what to do knowing that Hawke has already formed such feelings for him. It's nice and makes him feel warm, and Steven knows he has something of a crush on him too, but he's just as afraid to dip his toes into the water, so to speak.]
That's the thing about this place, yeah? We never know what will come tomorrow, or the next day, but... I suppose that could be said for the lives we left behind too. People could disappear at any time then too, just... differently.
[Fingers pick at some of the grass between them nervously, though his expression is soft and empathetic.]
It does. [ He laughs a bit. ] It's... reassuring to know we'll both sort of fumble through this.
[ He has so few people back home. Those he has, he can't be with while the Chantry wants him dead. This place is where he can be with his friends like he really wants. ]
And maybe it is reckless and stupid of me to risk what's already been shattered but a part of me does wonder why I shouldn't let myself feel for you. You know? [ He shakes his head because that probably doesn't make sense. ]
I mean, this might be my only chance to have feelings for you. And see where they go, what it brings. That's a damn good reason to try, you know? Even if I am afraid.
I think it's very brave of you to try despite the fear. Despite knowing what's at risk. You're... doing it anyway. I could have easily hurt you already but I'm glad that wasn't the case.
[Steven would never want to hurt Hawke, intentionally or otherwise, and he's grateful that they seem on a similar page in terms of taking things as they come. Honestly, he has no idea what he's doing, and Hawke's own hesitance to protect his heart is smart, especially after what he'd experienced with his former lover.]
I-... I don't have much experience in any of this, you know. [He sounds and looks a little embarrassed about that.] To be completely clear with you. I have no bloody idea what I'm doing, I just enjoy spending time with you.
[ That he has absolute faith in. Steven wouldn't have hurt him on purpose. He would never pull the same bullshit that Anders pulled. Steven's just too honest for that. ]
It doesn't have to be anything more than that. [ He reaches over, takes Steven's hand, and laces their fingers together. ] We can spend time together like we have and see where these feelings take us.
[ Hawke's smile suddenly turns more flirtatious and ridiculous. ] And I'd like you to know that I am resisting all sorts of terrible jokes about taking right now.
I'd like that. [Even something simple like hand holding feels like so much right now and Steven is pleased by it, his eyes shifting color to reflect that spark of joy. He relaxes his hand and squeezes Hawke's fingers gently.
The comment earns a snort and playful roll of the eyes, and then Steven opts to lie down beside Hawke instead, keeping their hands together as their arms nudge up comfortably.]
I imagine it's very difficult for you to hold back. [A quiet chuckle.] Your restraint is admirable.
[ Hawke folds an arm behind his head as Steven settles down next to him. His heart picks up a little bit but tit's more comfortable lying around like this than thrilling. ]
I love bad jokes. I love flirtation. But I am trying to get better about keeping serious conversations serious. The second we're done talking about these feelings we have I am going to make an uncouth joke. Just you wait.
[ He squeezes Steven's hand. ]
But we can also watch the stars come out. I could tell you a few of the constellations back home. Which would be more impressive if we were looking at the correct sky.
[Hawke always makes Steven laugh, in any case, and now is no different. It helps ease some of the more serious tension in the air but Steven is also glad they can talk about these things. He'd rather they be out in the open and he knows Hawke doesn't have an issue with that either.]
And this is why I knew you'd love The Princess Bride, for the record.
[A happy little flutter courses through him at the hand squeeze, smiling as he looks up at the darkening sky. The sun is still setting but he doesn't mind lying here with Hawke for a while still.]
I would've brought a blanket if I thought of this ahead of time. Maybe some hot cocoa to make on the go. Hmmm... next time. [He hums quietly to himself.] I do wonder what the stars here are, if the spirits have named any of them and whatnot. It's very hard to get information about Folkmore beyond the tales in the libraries. I'd still love to hear about the stars in Thedas though.
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Long may she... lay! [He joins in with a silly thrill at the ridiculous toast, knocking his mug into Hawke's before taking a drink. It tastes fresh and light, right up Steven's alley, even if he holds a tiny bit of guilt for indulging. It's not like he does it all the time.]
I wonder if we can convince them to make a vegan batch sometime here. I'm sure there are others in Folkmore who would gladly enjoy that too. [He hums thoughtfully but then takes another little sip, clearly pleased by the taste.] Next time we can find a distillery. You won't have to feel bad about a thing there. Not that you do here either, alright? I'm having a brilliant time.
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[ And off Hawke goes to talk to the owner about making a vegan batch, even offering his services to help with whatever's needed since he asking for it special. By the end of the conversation Hawke is shaking hands with the spirit to seal the deal. ]
Alright, we'll have a vegan batch special made for you and other vegans. If you want to add flavors or things you'll have to talk to him. [ He looks very pleased with himself and his wheeling and dealing. ] But he says it's possible that a magical filter could work to get the same clarity without the animal bits.
[ Seriously, he's very pleased with himself. ]
No, I'm having a great time. It's always fun with you though. Don't think I've ever had a bad time.
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Just like that? We should probably offer some spoons, yeah? I can help. A- A tip of some kind? [How does any of that work here?? Are there rules about this sort of thing?
He blinks with open distress over the idea of the crow spirits not getting compensated for helping out but they don't seem too bothered by it, fluttering closer to the pair to continue the tour into the retail portion of the property.]
Well, good, I would hope I don't bore you if you keep wanting to spend time with me. [Steven chuckles, pleased, because he sometimes does wonder if he lives up to people's expectations. He isn't sure that deep-rooted insecurity will ever fully disappear.] Even when we're simply hanging out at your place and reading or something it's... nice.
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If you want to, sure, but I'm going to help them make it so they get free labor. And I also get to learn hands on how the brewing thing really works. [ He's been listening to the talks but Hawke is a hands on learner. He does better when he gets to do things for himself. ] You could get something from the giftshop. Maybe a growler of ale for your brother?
[ Because there's plenty of beer for purchase and even some lovely mugs. Hawke, who has plenty of spoons to spend, absolutely buys a few mugs and a growler for himself. They make good ale and he's never worried about running out of spoons here. ]
You're never boring, Steven. [ Hawke says it with tender seriousness. ] You're interesting to listen to and you laugh at my terrible jokes. And they are terrible, let's not pretend. I feel quite at ease with you.
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It always takes him a minute to remember people mean Marc when they refer to his brother, and he's quick to nod in agreement, thinking both he and Layla might appreciate something to drink. Besides, he needs to thank Layla for helping him calm down for today.]
I'll get him and Layla something both. Her birthday is tomorrow, actually! I got her a book of poetry but maybe she'd appreciate a drink too... [His voice trails off thoughtfully, realizing he doesn't actually know what kind of tastes Layla has.
Either way, he's soon distracted by Hawke's tender words and his attention moves from a wall of glass tumblers to his date, a flutter rising in his chest again. Just hearing that Hawke enjoys his company is wonderful enough but the man is open and easy with his compliments, and they get to Steven every time. He knows he's blushing and his eyes are shifting into a familiar, expressive rose color to match.]
Well, you're lucky I enjoy a good, terrible joke. Some of my favorites, actually. [He brings a hand up to Hawke's arm to squeeze affectionately, trying to ignore the fact that he feels how hard the muscle underneath is. Oh dear.] I feel at ease with you too. I was so nervous coming into today but... I knew I shouldn't have been. You're always great company.
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The nervousness is good! It reassures Hawke that Steven feels something close to what he does. That's nice and strangely settles his own nerves a little bit more. Even though he's been relaxing further and further the longer this tour and time together has gone on. ]
I'm very glad to have met you in this strange place. I will carry the memory of our time together no matter what the rules are of this place. I know I won't forget you. [ He won't let himself forget Steven. Not when he's feeling this warmth and want just looking at Steven. ]
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Oh no, no, don't even worry about it! I don't think we're doing too much, just something the three of us tomorrow. I don't think Layla is one for attention and the like, you know? You should definitely meet sometime though. Maybe next time you come 'round I can introduce you two. [Especially since she helped him get ready for this date and all...
Hawke's words catch him sweetly in the moment and Steven's expression softens, wishing they could really remember all of this when they get back home. It's hard to imagine living a whole life here and meeting new people and not remembering them. Touched, he smiles warmly again, meeting Hawke's eyes.]
I'm glad to have met you too. I don't want to forget. I hope- I hope it's possible. Seems a shame if we can't after sharing so many memories together. [A quiet, almost bashful chuckle.] It's nice to know I've made that much of an impression on you.
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[ Preparation would only give Hawke a chance to over think the whole gift and make it terrible but none of his other friends seemed to mind when he got them terrible gifts. He's very lucky that way. ]
You're like no one I've ever met. [ Hawke drapes his arm around Steven's shoulders again. ] Are you feeling hungry after all that? We can grab a bite when you're done shopping and just hang out like we always do.
[ Because hanging out with Steven is one of Hawke's favorite things to do in Folkmore. Add in food and alcohol and Hawke is guaranteed a good night. The only other person he's so at ease with is Fenris. ]
I have no idea what's around here to eat for you... [ He might need to consult the relic... ]
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You've never met other awkward bookish types? A shame. [He teases a little self-deprecatingly, but then Hawke's arm is flying around him and another warm little thrill goes through him (and not just because Hawke's wings are literally right there). He nods quickly at the suggestion of food. He can never say no to that.]
I'm sure we can find something around here. Folkmore has been surprisingly accommodating to my diet. Maybe we can take it outside somewhere too and enjoy the view - it's a lovely day, and it's beautiful around here. What do you think?
[And then quieter, more to himself:] I think I will end up getting the growler after all... [Which he is grabbing now, along with some fancy looking tumblers with the place's logo etched onto the glass artfully. A little keepsake. Steven loves buying little reminders of the places he's been and at least this time it's not yet another paperweight.
Either way, he ends up buying his things and as they head outside Steven notices the sun is starting to go down and will probably set within the next hour. A perfect opportunity for an impromptu picnic of sorts.]
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I guess if you're a sheep spirit you don't want to be eating sheep. [ Hawke hovers a little while Steven makes his purchases. They shake hands with the owners one more time with Hawke promising again to help with the farm and then off they go to explore what's around the brewery.
They find a little food stand that has something called falafel that Hawke has never had before. ]
So, it's made from chickpeas which aren't chicken and they aren't actually peas? [ The sheer variety of food in Folkmore can be a touch overwhelming to him sometimes. Luckily, Steven seems to know all about it. They're looking for a decent place to sit and watch the sunset, also Steven's idea that Hawke has no problems with. ]
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Steven is very pleased about the falafel stand and orders for them both, since Hawke seems a little lost, reassuring him he'll enjoy them with the sauces included. He doesn't even think about the fact that one is drenched in garlic and maybe that may give one or both of them terrible breath on a date. It's delicious!
Hawke makes him laugh with the chickpea comment, and as they head around the outskirts of some of the hops fields, they find a private spot to hunker down, Steven setting his bag of gifts down before he simply sits down on the ground without a care. If he'd prepared, he would've brought a blanket, but oh well. Next time.]
No, sorry to disappoint. Chickpeas are a legume and quite versatile! I should make you hummus sometime. I think you'd enjoy that. [Steven grabs for one of the little containers of falafel and opens up the sauces too, scooting in closer to Hawke so he can explain what each one is.] So this is a tahini sauce with lemon, here's the garlic one, and this one's on the hot side, I think - do you like spicy food?
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Legume. [ He repeats the word as he flops down on the ground, somehow not spilling any of his food. Given his life on the run he's quite comfortable eating on the ground with any blankets or anything more than his clothes. ] Do they look like chickens or peas? Is that why they have the name?
[ The food smells good. Hawke really finds it hard to believe there's no meat in it. Spices must make all the difference. ]
Spicy isn't common in Ferelden. Kirkwall had some because it was once ruled by Tevinter and they have a taste for spicy things. I'd say it's alright. Certainly covers up bad food when you need to. [ He fearlessly dips the falafel into the first sauce and then pops it into his mouth to see how it is. ]
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[Does it make any sense? Likely not, but of course Steven knows this.
His eyes are on Hawke upon the man's first bite, almost nervous for his reaction, like this is a part of Steven's life that could make or break their friendship. Not really of course, but Steven is determined to find vegan food that Hawke genuinely enjoys.]
You can be honest with me, I promise it won't hurt my feelings. [Steven offers while taking a bite of his own with a bit of the tahini, clearly pleased with the way he hums and already reaches for more.]
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It's good. [ He speaks with his mouth somewhat full because he's a barbarian. When he finishes his mouthful he wipes his mouth on his arm. ] The spice is a bit... intense? I mean, I'm not used to it. But it's not bad.
[ There is a spice tingling his mouth that Hawke's not used to. He really doesn't eat spicy food on his own at all. He's not unhappy about it but it's going to meant he eats slower than before. ]
Do you know how to make this? [ He wiggles one of the falafel balls towards Steven. ] You could teach me and we could cook it together for ourselves.
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I'm glad it hasn't made you want to spit it out immediately. [Steven chuckles, and then he shrugs a little at the question, considering the difficulty level of making falafel.] Layla knows how, I'm sure she could teach me. I'd be happy to teach you too once I have a better idea of what I'm doing.
[Steven can't stop smiling, his nerves abated and feeling good now, especially now that they've settled down and can just relax for a little while. The view out here is amazing and he turns his attention to the sky for a bit, admiring the orangey hues in the clouds.]
I'm not sure if this is rude to ask but... [His voice trails off as he tries to figure out how to word his question, feeling a little shy about it.] Did you want to ask me out before we danced, or after?
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I don't know if it's rude... [ Hawke picks at the falafel for a moment, thinking over the question. ] But I did realize I had romantic feelings for you then. I always recognized that you were handsome and fun, though. That's not anything new to me.
[ Since Anders ripped his heart open and shattered his faith. He thought he would never feel this way about someone again. Steven seems to be the exception to many things. ]
But you really made my heart race and my knees weak dancing with me. A little terrifying, if I'm being honest.
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He nods a little with Hawke's answer, feeling his face and neck warm again from the easy confession, and it's different to hear from his lips rather than read through text. Steven's never really had someone say these things to him in a romantic context so it's new and scary to him, but also rather exhilarating.]
Yeah? [The word is soft as he looks over to Hawke again, taking in the honesty about it being terrifying. Steven understands why.] What are you afraid of most? If you- If you want to say, that is.
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If you disappear, I'll be happy because you're home and safe but you will take a piece of my heart with you. I don't have many of those left.
[ He's been picking them up and putting things back together since arriving in Folkmore but he still hasn't put it all back together. And some has gone to Steven which means he has less. ]
When I was younger I would have thrown myself at you and hoped for the best without a care in the world for the consequences. I've lived the consequences of that recklessness. I want to be more careful but I also had a great time with you. I always do.
[ He shrugs. ]
I suppose I'll see what happens.
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That's the thing about this place, yeah? We never know what will come tomorrow, or the next day, but... I suppose that could be said for the lives we left behind too. People could disappear at any time then too, just... differently.
[Fingers pick at some of the grass between them nervously, though his expression is soft and empathetic.]
I'm a bit scared too, if that helps.
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[ He has so few people back home. Those he has, he can't be with while the Chantry wants him dead. This place is where he can be with his friends like he really wants. ]
And maybe it is reckless and stupid of me to risk what's already been shattered but a part of me does wonder why I shouldn't let myself feel for you. You know? [ He shakes his head because that probably doesn't make sense. ]
I mean, this might be my only chance to have feelings for you. And see where they go, what it brings. That's a damn good reason to try, you know? Even if I am afraid.
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[Steven would never want to hurt Hawke, intentionally or otherwise, and he's grateful that they seem on a similar page in terms of taking things as they come. Honestly, he has no idea what he's doing, and Hawke's own hesitance to protect his heart is smart, especially after what he'd experienced with his former lover.]
I-... I don't have much experience in any of this, you know. [He sounds and looks a little embarrassed about that.] To be completely clear with you. I have no bloody idea what I'm doing, I just enjoy spending time with you.
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[ That he has absolute faith in. Steven wouldn't have hurt him on purpose. He would never pull the same bullshit that Anders pulled. Steven's just too honest for that. ]
It doesn't have to be anything more than that. [ He reaches over, takes Steven's hand, and laces their fingers together. ] We can spend time together like we have and see where these feelings take us.
[ Hawke's smile suddenly turns more flirtatious and ridiculous. ] And I'd like you to know that I am resisting all sorts of terrible jokes about taking right now.
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The comment earns a snort and playful roll of the eyes, and then Steven opts to lie down beside Hawke instead, keeping their hands together as their arms nudge up comfortably.]
I imagine it's very difficult for you to hold back. [A quiet chuckle.] Your restraint is admirable.
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I love bad jokes. I love flirtation. But I am trying to get better about keeping serious conversations serious. The second we're done talking about these feelings we have I am going to make an uncouth joke. Just you wait.
[ He squeezes Steven's hand. ]
But we can also watch the stars come out. I could tell you a few of the constellations back home. Which would be more impressive if we were looking at the correct sky.
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And this is why I knew you'd love The Princess Bride, for the record.
[A happy little flutter courses through him at the hand squeeze, smiling as he looks up at the darkening sky. The sun is still setting but he doesn't mind lying here with Hawke for a while still.]
I would've brought a blanket if I thought of this ahead of time. Maybe some hot cocoa to make on the go. Hmmm... next time. [He hums quietly to himself.] I do wonder what the stars here are, if the spirits have named any of them and whatnot. It's very hard to get information about Folkmore beyond the tales in the libraries. I'd still love to hear about the stars in Thedas though.
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