Hawke and his Princess: Chapter 39

Hawke and Elayne take some time for themselves.

Hawke was right. The elven camp wasn't that far from the farm. It was almost a full day's ride. By the time they got to the farm, it was just a little past dark. After removing the saddles from the horses, Hawke rode Midnight back to his house and let the horse free before they retired for the evening.

"It really feels good to be back here, Hawke. I'm glad you thought of this," she said as she leaned back against him with a glass of wine watching the fire.

"Me too, princess. I think I'm going to insist on Caleb letting us away from camp for a few days every other week. It might take us a little more time to finally leave after we're done with Caleb, but I find it worth it."

"Especially after listening to the lectures. What is the point of all that anyway? I noticed a lot of what they're teaching us you've already learned from your books. Which I still think was a weird thing to study, by the way. But it is easier to understand since you know most of it." She turned her head a little to look at him. "Hawke, you mentioned that you dove into those subjects out of boredom and a passion for history," she laughed softly, "but out of all the topics, why focus on the Blights?"

"It wasn't just the Blights that I read about," he explained. "I devoured anything I could find. We were always on the move, trying to stay ahead of the Templars and the Tower's clutches. During those rare moments when we could actually catch our breath, I lost myself in whatever literature was available. It helped keep me sane. They were my escape and kept my mind engaged," he explained, shrugging slightly. "Honestly, it made the journey feel less burdensome for me."

"Well, it definitely makes what we're learning easier or should I say what I'm learning since you know a lot of it." She turned around, so she was lying on top of him, "Why don't you go take that bath you're dying for while I fix us something to eat. I don't know about you, but I'm hungry."

He grinned at her. "Yeah, I'm hungry too, but not for what you're thinking right now." He put a hand on the back of her head and brought her mouth to his.

When he finally let her go, she squirmed from out of his arms and got up, "That's for dessert, my love. Besides, I'm dying for a bath, too, but food first."

"Why don't you join me then," he said while he tried to grab her hand as she headed to the kitchen, but she avoided him by hurrying out of his reach.

"No, thank you, I'll pass on the cold bath, but it might do you wonders baby," she giggled, "at least for a while anyways. Go Hawke, by the time you're done, the food will be ready."

Grumbling about a bossy woman, he went and gathered his stuff and headed to the lake. Even though it was a little chilly, it felt absolutely wonderful being able to submerge himself in the water. After using the waterfall to rinse the soap off of him, he headed back to shore when he felt her in his head, letting him know dinner was ready. Wearing just his pants, he walked inside, seating himself at the table.

She came up behind him and wrapped her arms around him, "You feel better, my love?" she asked softly while her hands slid down his bare chest. "Mmm, baby, I love the feel of you under my hands," she purred.

He grabbed her hands and pulled her around onto his lap, "is that so, angel," he asked before his mouth claimed hers. He finally released her when her belly grumbled, "I guess you are hungry, my love," he grinned at her, "Go eat, baby."

After dinner, he got her bath ready while she cleaned up the kitchen. "Your bath is ready, my beautiful princess," he said bowing to her.

She giggled and walked towards him before curtsying, "Thank you, my handsome prince." She laughed when she heard him growling. "If I'm your princess, then you're my prince, my love." Stripping off her clothes, she stepped into the warm bubbly water with a sigh, "Oh sweet mercy, this is heavenly, thank you, baby."

He felt her body and muscles relaxing as the water enveloped her, he put more heat into the water until she was moaning with pleasure, then he sat back on the couch watching her relaxing in the tub. His mind went to upgrades for the house, so she could enjoy this more often, "Better include a bigger tub than baby," he heard her in his mind. "That way, you can join me instead of using the lake to clean up in."

Chuckling, he added another log to the fire before refilling his glass and sitting back down. "So we have a couple of days to ourselves. What would you like to do?"

As she turned in the tub, her gaze fell upon him from across the rim, her movement causing the rippling water to dance around her. He found himself captivated by the sight of her luscious figure. 'Damn, she has a sexy bottom.' The sound of her soft laughter broke through his thoughts, and he lifted his gaze to meet her eyes.

"I think I want to spend the next couple of days wrapped up in my husband's arms in bed with him buried inside me. That sounds absolutely wonderful." She watched as his eyes started changing, a hungry grin on his face.

"Really!!" he growled.

"Mmhm, I think that sounds like a delicious idea," she purred as she got out of the tub and walked slowly towards him as his eyes raked up and down her body.

She felt heat rush through her as his gaze landed first on her breasts, then lower. She trembled as his look became ravenous when they went between her legs, and she felt a different kind of wetness. She stood in front of him, running her hand down herself, first touching her breasts, then slowly lowered her hand down between her legs. He watched as her fingers slid along her, coming back out glistening. She leaned towards him, her eyes on his as she brought her wet fingers up to his lips. He opened it, and she slid her fingers inside his hot mouth, closing her eyes moaning as he started licking and sucking her fingers.

He lifted her up and laid her across his lap as his mouth came down on hers. She moaned when his hand trailed down her body to between her legs, and his fingers went inside her. She put her arms around his neck, opening her legs more while his fingers started moving along her. He felt her muscles tighten around his fingers, her hips moving with him as they slid in and out of her.

He withdrew his lips from hers and leaned in closer, whispering in her ear, "Come for me, my love." As his fingers quickened their movement, she felt a rush of warmth rush through her. Gasping, she tightened around him, her breath becoming ragged as soft whimpers escaped her lips. With her eyes shut tight, her sounds grew louder, and her hips began to move in rhythm with his hand, matching the increased urgency. "Scream for me, baby," he urged. In response, she cried out his name, and a primal growl escaped him as her body surrendered, releasing waves of pleasure over his fingers.

"That's my beautiful angel," he whispered hotly in her ear, keeping his fingers sliding along her, coaxing more from her.

His gaze burned intensely into hers as he turned her body, positioning her legs on either side of him. A low growl escaped his lips, "I think it's time for dessert, darling." With that, he laid on his back, eagerly pulling her bottom closer to his mouth as she straddled him, his tongue plunging deep within her, his hands gripping her waist.

As she gazed down, their eyes locked, her hips began to move against his mouth, responding to the fervor of his tongue that sought her essence, relentless in its pursuit. Releasing his hold on her hips, his fingers ventured up to tease her nipples, twisting and pulling with a playful urgency. The mounting pleasure caused her muscles to tighten around his tongue, leading to another scream as her sweet essence flooded his mouth.

"Again," he growled in her head and her hips bucked wildly against him, releasing her juices over and over in his mouth until she collapsed over him, her body spent. He slid her down on top of him, letting her rest, "You satisfied my love," he asked quietly before his mouth took hers.

He carried her into the bedroom and laid down beside her on the bed before removing his mouth from hers. His eyes and hands roamed slowly over her body, "do you know how unbelievably sexy and beautiful you are baby," he asked her softly as his eyes went to hers, his hand between her legs again rubbing her. Her hips started moving with his fingers, and she whimpered when he slid them deep inside her, bringing another release from her. She rolled over, his fingers still moving inside her.

"Arik," she panted while her hands went to the waistband of his pants.

He chuckled, "why you in such a hurry, my love," he whispered in her ear while his fingers still slid along her, bringing her body over the edge again before she could grasp him in her hands.

"Arik, please, I need you inside me now, please, baby," she begged, panting heavily.

"As my baby wishes," he growled before her body released on his fingers again. He quickly removed his pants, opened her legs wide, and got between them. He put his fingers back inside her, bringing her close to the edge before he raised her rear up and rammed himself deep inside her, making her scream as she climaxed.

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

The following morning, after finally allowing her some rest, he quietly rose from the bed and dressed quickly. Last night, he had noticed several extra horses in the barn after putting the saddles away. A grin spread across his face upon spotting Larry and Mark outside.

"Looks like you two chose to stick around. Are you enjoying your little getaway," he said with a chuckle.

Mark shrugged. "Well, you did invite us to stay, my Lord. We've been pitching in around the farm, giving Sara and Hank a much-deserved break while we handle the chores."

Hawke, impressed by the gesture, nodded appreciatively. "Thank you for that. I'll definitely mention to Bryce that he needs to increase your pay when we return. Elayne and I are only taking a brief break for a couple of days before we're off again. We're uncertain about how long we'll be away this time, but we want you both to know that you're welcome to stay here as long as you like. Now, gentlemen, I'll make my way back to my house. I just wanted to drop by and see how you were doing. So, take this time to relax and enjoy yourselves."

Once he returned to clean up and put the tub away, he made his way back to the bedroom. There, he paused to watch her sleeping peacefully. She would remain in slumber for some time, and a smile spread across his face as memories of the previous night and that morning flooded his mind. Their desire for each other had burned brightly; she craved him just as intensely as he craved her, both of them caught in a wave of passion.

Feeling her stir in his head, he swiftly removed his clothes and slipped back under the covers beside her. Wrapping his arm around her, he drew her close, finding comfort in the rhythm of her breathing. For a moment, he lay there, absorbing the feeling of the moment. "I love you, baby," he whispered before finally surrendering to sleep, allowing himself to drift into dreams alongside her.

He found himself waking to the feeling of her hands and lips wrapped around him, a low pleasurable groan escaped him. "Elayne, baby, what are you doing?"

Raising her head slightly, she shot him a playful grin. "What does it feel like I'm doing, my love?" With a mischievous look in her eye, she returned her focus to him, sliding her warm mouth and hands up and down his shaft. As he grew harder, his fingers tangled in her hair, urging her to take him in deeper.

"Elayne," he gasped, a wave of pleasure coursing through him. She responded by tightening her grip, quickening her pace until he reached his peak, filling her completely. A grin spread across her face as he pulled her up onto him. Straddling him, she guided him deep within her, ready, wet, and eager for him.

"Oh, sweet mercy baby," panting heavily, he felt her body tighten around him, a wave of pleasure flooded through him as he thrust deeper, holding her hips firmly in his grasp. Their climaxes became one as he released himself within her. Leaning forward, his hands and lips traced a path along her back before he gently pulled her closer. "You're truly incredible, my love," he murmured softly into her ear, then lowered her beside him.

Turning to face him, she gazed into his eyes, her fingertips tracing the contours of his face. A soft smile played on her lips as she leaned in. "And so are you, my love," she breathed, their lips meeting in a tender embrace. Her leg draped over him while her hand guided his shaft back into her, igniting the fire between them once more.

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

As she rode alongside him, memories of the last three wonderful days together flooded her mind, filling her with warmth. A deep sense of contentment wrapped around her; she felt more relaxed than she had in a long time. When she glanced over at him, their eyes met; a warm blush crept across her cheeks. He let out a soft chuckle, then took hold of Snowball's reins, drawing the horse closer. In one quick motion, he swooped her from the saddle and settled her on his lap.

"I'm glad my baby's so happy and content, means I'm doing my job," he said, pulling her close to him.

A playful smile spread across her face as she replied, "Oh, there's no doubt about that, my love." She settled comfortably against his chest, feeling cherished and secure.

When they finally made it to camp, she felt Hawke stiffen up, suddenly on alert, and reaching for his power. She looked around and noticed a stranger sitting by Caleb, Fen, and Othanar. "Hawke, who is that," she asked with concern as she looked up at him.

He shook his head as he helped her off Midnight. "I don't know, but let's get the horses comfortable, then we'll find out."

After they were done, she grabbed his hand as they walked over to the group. Caleb looked up at them and smiled as they neared. "Glad to see the lovebirds made it back. Come, meet our guest, and have a seat." He turned to the stranger, "Duncan, I'd like to introduce you to the couple we've been talking about, Arik and Elayne Hawke." He turned to them, "and this is Duncan. You two will be spending some time together with him." Hawke was still hesitant, but he took Duncan's hand when Duncan offered it. The minute their hands touched, she felt Hawke tense up, and he stepped in front of her like a shield, protecting her.

"Who and what are you?" Hawke growled, his body on alert as a feeling of trepidation went through him. For some reason, Duncan's presence gave Hawke a strong sense of foreboding, especially with his and Elayne's future.

Caleb went to stand up, but Duncan looked at him, "it's ok, Caleb." He looked back to Hawke curiously, "you've felt it before, how and where?"

Elayne put her hand on Hawke's back, rubbing it, trying to ease some of the tension in him. Hawke, not taking his eyes off Duncan, put his arm around her, his voice low, "you haven't answered my question."

Duncan sighed, waving for them to sit. When he had first seen the young man, he had been skeptical. Everything that Caleb and the others had said about him didn't fit the young man standing in front of him. He was too young to be a master swordsman for starters. He was too young to be a master at anything, period. When the two shook hands, he saw young Hawke recognize something in him, and his eyes became cold steel as he put himself in front of Elayne, protecting her. He watched as Elayne brought her hand up to Hawke's back, soothing him. Not taking his eyes off Duncan, the young man put his arm around her, but his piercing blue eyes never changed as they penetrated Duncan.

"Sit please, and I'll tell you who I am, and then I have two questions for you." He watched the couple walk over to an empty bench, Elayne sitting down, but Hawke stood behind her, still on edge. Amused, he watched as Elayne looked up at Hawke and reached for his hand, before his eyes finally left Duncan's as he looked down at her. Something passed between the two, Hawke relaxed a little and sat down beside her with his arm around her. His eyes were still hard, though, but Duncan saw the difference in his body. He looked over at Caleb, who was watching the couple with a knowing smile on his face, nodding.

"First of all, as Caleb told you, my name is Duncan. What he didn't tell you is that I'm the Warden Commander of the Grey Wardens here in Ferelden." He paused when he saw something flash across Arik's eyes, and Elayne looked worriedly up at Hawke. "You've heard of the Grey Wardens?" Both of them nodded, but there was something else.

"Who hasn't? It's well known that the Grey Wardens are the only ones that can stop a Blight." Hawke looked over at Caleb, "so there is something going on?" he asked as he got up and started pacing.

He stopped, looking at him, Duncan could see Hawke's mind working, thinking things through. "Before anything more gets said, I need to know what I felt in you."

Duncan watched him as he started pacing again, "Before I answer that, I need to know a few things. What do you know of Grey Wardens?

Hawke looked at him in annoyance, "I know what everyone knows if they bother to open a book. What does this have to do with what I felt in you," he growled in anger. Hawke looked down at Elayne, and again, something passed between the two, Hawke deflated a little, looking back at Duncan.

"We've recently been learning about the Blights and the Wardens. The Grey Wardens are an Order of warriors of exceptional ability dedicated to fighting darkspawn throughout Thedas. They are headquartered in the very place of their founding, Weisshaupt Fortress in the Anderfels, but maintain a presence in most other nations as well. The Grey Wardens are known for ignoring a recruit's racial, social, national, and even criminal background if they deem the person valuable in terms of character, ability, or skill. Despite their small numbers, the Grey Wardens have been instrumental in defeating each Blight so far and thus are vital to the survival of the world as a whole."

"I know they're not well respected, especially here in Ferelden. Somehow, they are able to sense when an Archdemon is awake. They are the only ones that can kill them. They can also sense when darkspawn are present," he stopped suddenly looking at Duncan. "How? The taint? Is that what I sensed in you?"

"Describe it to me?" Duncan probed.

"It's like something that was filth, rotten, but it's not as strong in you as what I've felt before. Not only did I feel the rot, but I felt a wrongness, pure evil. I don't feel the evil in you that I felt that day, but there is a connection to you and to what I felt before."

"This is crucial, Hawke. When and where did you encounter this?" Duncan continued, eager to gather more information.

"About a month ago, I came across it in some caves near Highever," Hawke replied.

"Which caves in Highever?" Duncan pressed further, his desire for answers growing stronger.

Hawke looked at him closely, his irritation spiking, "they're not a threat anymore, but you are! Why are you here?" he asked quietly.

"Why not take a break and find something to eat, Hawke? Elayne and you must be feeling quite hungry from your trip," Caleb suggested, cutting in. "Meanwhile, Duncan and I can talk about a few things."

She stood up, taking Hawke's hand in hers, "Come, my love, I know I definitely need something to eat, and I can feel you do too."

Hawke paused, his gaze lingering on Duncan. An unsettling undercurrent seemed to ripple just beneath the surface, suggesting that there was more at play than anyone was revealing. Within his mind, Elayne's voice cut through the fog of his thoughts. "Hawke, perhaps this relates to what Caleb is teaching us, but at least we've found an answer to one question. The Grey Wardens are still around and are likely entangled in whatever is looming ahead."

As they moved away from Caleb and Duncan, he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "Elayne, I just want this to be done and over with. I want to be away from here, away from him," he said as that feeling of foreboding went through him again.

Elayne felt the anger and tension radiating from him. Duncan's presence seemed to heighten Hawke's unease. "We've been neglecting our training for a few days now," she suggested gently. "How about we grab a bite to eat and then focus on some practice before the end of the night."

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

With a wary glance, Caleb turned to Duncan. The tension in his voice was clear as he warned, "Don't underestimate him, Duncan."

Duncan shot back a skeptical look. "You're holding back details about him, Caleb."

"I've shared all I can," Caleb replied, frustration creeping into his voice. "If you want to know more, you'll have to ask him directly. I notice the way you're looking at him. You're making judgments based solely on his age. Yes, he's young, but don't mistake that for ignorance. Everything I've said about him is the truth. It's crucial that you stop with the games. Be honest and straightforward. Hawke is not someone who tolerates dishonesty. If you conceal anything from him and he finds out, the fallout could be severe. Both of them hold significant roles in our future, though the reasons elude me. But we need them. We need them to stay until they are ready. If you provoke him, we risk losing them both before we can prepare them."

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

Caleb and Duncan walked over to join Elayne as they watched Hawke with his practice session. "Why is he practicing with twelve of your warriors, Caleb?"

Caleb looked at Duncan with a grin, "he's practicing for the competition in a couple of months in Denerim."

"I know you said he was a master Caleb, but is he really that good? He's too young."

"He may be young, but he's that good. Watch how he moves. He's quick, agile, and aggressive. Just watch him Duncan, you'll see for yourself."

Just then, the attack began, and as always, his foes came at him in perfect unison. With deft precision, he found himself surrounded in a flurry of thrusts aimed to penetrate his defenses. Each lunge of his opponents was met with the swift arc of his blades, cutting down one opponent while parrying against another. He settled into a combat stance, poised and ready, as he deftly advanced, pivoting on his feet to sweep low and disrupt their formation. In a seamless dance of offense and defense, he countered their relentless assaults, executing calculated retreats only to spring forward again with renewed vigor. With every move, he transformed the chaos of battle into a rhythmic testament of skill, whether dodging a fierce strike or launching a counterattack that sent his opponents reeling.

Elayne concentrated on Hawke, trying to ignore Duncan behind her. Yet, she felt compelled to respond, as she turned around to face him. "Do you know who my father's General is? General Jack ranks as the second highest General in all of Ferelden. By the end of a practice session with him, Hawke had him on the ground. Hawke's not merely skilled; he's exceptional--one of the finest fighters Ferelden has to offer. At the competition, he'll prove that to everyone."

Turning back to Hawke, she caught sight of Caleb's amused expression directed at her, and she felt warmth flushing her cheeks. Hawke was a whirlwind on the field, taking down half the elves in quick succession and dispatching two more simultaneously. With just four opponents remaining, he unleashed his pent-up frustration and swiftly eliminated them.

After the session was over, Elayne turned back to Caleb and Duncan as Hawke walked towards her, with a triumphant smile on her face. "And not one blade touched him." She looked over at Hawke as he put his arm around her.

"You're turn, baby," he said quietly as she handed him her blade, and he ran his hand across the edge, shielding it before handing it back to her. Stepping into the ring, she centered herself, focusing her thoughts and preparing for the challenge ahead. Caleb was keeping her at three elves for her practice sessions, pushing her to hone her skills under pressure.

Pride swelled within Hawke as he observed her fluid motions, each step a testament to her hard work. He recalled her earlier words to Duncan and glanced back, noting that Duncan was captivated by Elayne's performance. "Who has been training her?" Duncan inquired, curiosity evident in his tone. Hawke shifted his gaze to Caleb, who remained silent, his expression unreadable.

They all watched as she executed a move that Hawke hadn't yet taught her, igniting a deep sense of pride in him. Clearly, she had been paying close attention through their bond. However, her next attempt faltered, resulting in a painful blade lash to her side. Fortunately, it was not a fatal blow. "Concentrate on what you've learned. The rest will come in due time," he told her through their bond. She responded with a slight nod, redirecting her attention to the moves she knew.

After practice, she walked over to him with a pleased look on her face, "You did great, my love," he said quietly to her. "You pulled off that first move perfectly, but I definitely don't remember teaching you that yet."

Embarrassment crept into her cheeks as she admitted, "I took a bit of a risk. Seeing that first move work made me overconfident, and I thought I could pull off another, I misjudged."

Drawing her close, his hand brushed against her side, where her injury had been, and felt it had already healed. "There's no sign of your injury, I'm glad to see your sword is working."

Her gaze met his, and her smile warmed his heart. "Thank you, my love."

Duncan, after watching their interaction with keen interest, stepped forward, "I must say, I'm genuinely impressed, Master Hawke. Watching you both is quite impressive. So, I take it you're her teacher?"

"I'm her main teacher, but she's got a few beside me. She trains with her soldiers. She's had Caleb and his people even helping."

"Feeling up for another sparring session, Hawke?" Duncan asked abruptly, intrigued to gauge the lad's abilities himself.

Hawke looked at Duncan with irritation, "Why? I have nothing to prove to you."

Duncan studied him intently, recognizing that despite his youth, there was something unique about Hawke. Standing tall and defiant, the lad exuded pride and strength. His confidence radiated power, revealing a keen understanding of who and what he was. He would prove to be an invaluable asset to the Wardens--indeed, both of them possessed potential. Yet, it was Hawke who captured Duncan's true interest.

Duncan extended his hand toward Hawke in a gesture of respect. "Hawke, it seems we've started off on the wrong foot; whatever I may have done to upset you, I sincerely apologize. Can we wipe the slate clean?"

Hawke's expression hardened as he looked at Duncan. "I'm not one for playing games, Duncan. My presence here is solely due to my teacher and friend," he said, glancing at Caleb. "I'm certain he's already filled you in on me. I have no patience for games. When I tried to talk to you earlier, all I received in return were endless questions, leaving my own unanswered. If you expect my cooperation, it's only fair that you start providing some answers. Mutual respect isn't a one-way street; it must be given to be received."

With an abrupt turn, he stormed away, leaving Duncan in stunned silence. Glancing at Caleb and Elayne, who were in conversation, Duncan felt a mix of frustration and urgency. "Elayne, I'm really sorry. Caleb mentioned you're here for a specific purpose, and I genuinely want to make things right. What can I do to fix this situation with him?"

Turning her attention to Duncan, she regarded him, "Duncan, the person you should actually be speaking to is Arik. He's already told you what you can do to fix this."

Elayne rose from her seat, pausing just long enough to give Caleb a hug. "Thank you for being such a great friend to both Arik and me, Caleb. I really appreciate you letting me be here."

With a hint of regret, Caleb addressed her, "I truly apologize for the misunderstanding. I knew you both were meant to be together; however, I wasn't aware of the spiritual bond that had formed between you. Your presence is just as vital as his, and I see that now."

"Well, I'm going to retire for the night with my husband, we'll see you in the morning."

After she had left, Caleb turned to Duncan, his irritation evident. "You can't treat him as if he's one of your raw recruits. He holds far more significance than that. He is the husband of Elayne Cousland, who is the daughter of Bryce Cousland. Think about the implications of that. If something were to happen to Bryce and Fergus Cousland, he could very well become the next Teyrn of Highever."

Duncan found himself lost in thought, pondering the couple. A question lingered in his mind: "How did they meet anyway?"

"The story of how they met isn't mine to share, Duncan, and I doubt they'd open up about it either. What I can say, though, is that they are meant to be together. They share a connection that most people can only dream about. You might recall me mentioning the special bond they share," he asked, and Duncan nodded. "It's a connection that defies explanation, one that no one else could truly comprehend. Even I, who has seen it, am still trying to grasp its depth."

As Elayne went back to their tent, she spotted Hawke tending to Midnight, carefully brushing the horse's sleek coat. He glanced over at her, a look of weariness in his eyes. "You ready to retire for the night? Maybe tomorrow will be better, if not then, well, we'll see. So far, the only truly positive thing that has come out of our journey here is your blade there."

Wrapping her arms around him, she tilted her head up to meet his gaze. "Hawke, what is it about Duncan that unsettles you so much?"

As he gazed down at her, brushing a few loose strands of hair away from her face, his eyes locked onto hers. "I don't know, angel, there's just something about him I can't put my finger on. I know I can feel a wrongness in him. There's some kind of connection between him and what I felt in those caves, but it's not nearly as strong as I felt then. Maybe it's the fact that he won't answer any of my questions, or maybe it's what he is and what that means for Ferelden, I don't know Elayne." The thought of the potential dangers that lay ahead for Ferelden loomed large, but for the moment, he wanted to set those worries aside.

Drawing her closer, "But right now, I'd rather not dwell on those thoughts. You're the only thing I want to focus on."

Drawing her closer, he felt a rush of warmth as he lifted her into his arms. She wrapped her arms and legs around him, a smile brightening her face. A playful grin spread across his own as he looked down at her. There were far more enjoyable thoughts to occupy his mind. As he carried her toward their tent, he lowered his lips to hers, sealing their moment with a tender kiss, pulling both of them into a world far removed from their troubles.

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

Hawke walked with Elayne to where Caleb was, and they sat down, with Elayne finding a comfortable spot before leaning against him. Duncan remained contemplative, wondering how much he should share. However, the moment Hawke fixed his gaze upon him, the decision was taken from Duncan's grasp.

"You've got the taint in you, all Grey Wardens do. That's what I felt in those caves, and I feel it in you, isn't it? That's why Grey Wardens are so good at doing their job. Somehow, you've taken their taint into you, that's why you're the only ones that can kill an Archdemon. You've sacrificed everything to protect the world of Thedas, and not many people understand or respect that. You're here because the whispers from the Deep Roads are real; the darkspawn are on the move."

Duncan sat there looking at Hawke stunned. He looked over at Caleb, who looked back at him with a satisfied 'I told you so' look on his face.

He looked back over at Hawke, who casually watched him. Hawke nodded to himself. He knew he had just pieced together something that only Grey Wardens knew for a certainty.

Hawke leaned forward, still looking at Duncan. Elayne put her hand on him with a worried look, "Are you sure he needs to know?"

He looked down at her and brushed his hand along her face, "I'm sure. I already told you something is going on, and the one thing I most definitely know is that we've all got to work together. He needs to trust me just as much as I need to trust him. I just revealed something that maybe, only a handful of people might know outside the Wardens."

His gaze locked onto Duncan's, conveying a silent warning of what would happen if Duncan chose poorly. "Everything we discuss stays right here in this camp," he commanded, pausing for Duncan's agreement before he continued. "I'm a free mage, outside the Chantry and Tower's influence. The reason I can assure you that those caves in Highever pose no danger is because I was the one who caused their collapse."

Duncan's eyes shifted to Elayne, her cautious expression mirrored in the way she gripped Hawke, alertness clear on her face as she watched him.

Duncan studied the young man intently. Having exposed his true identity to a complete stranger was a bold move, yet the implications of what Hawke had shared about the Wardens posed an equally significant threat. If the truth about the taint within the Wardens became known, voluntary recruitment would disappear, with only conscription remaining as a means to fill their ranks. Exhaling slowly, he said, "You're right, Hawke; that's indeed what you're sensing. I vow to keep your secret safe, bound by the Grey Warden oath."

His gaze shifted to Caleb. "I set out tomorrow for Ostagar on the outskirts of the Wilds. There's something I must investigate, and Hawke will be accompanying me."

He looked back to Hawke, who looked at him in confusion, "it's up to you whether or not you want Elayne to come. It might become too dangerous. I'm not sure what we might be walking into, but from what I've seen of the both of you, you can hold your own. But it's up to you, Hawke."

Hawke looked at him, his anger starting to rise. "Why do I have to go with you? I have no reason or interest to join the Grey Wardens. I have a family that relies on me. What could I do that you can't?"

"It's been 400 years since the last Blight. You know there are seven Old Gods. When each gets woken by the darkspawn, they become Archdemons by being infected with the taint. We've already had four Blights, which means there's still three left."

"Like you said, something is coming, though. Something doesn't feel right. You ask what you could do, I don't know if you can do anything, but something deep in my gut says you might be able to help. For some reason, you can sense the taint like me, but you have none of it in you. I find that interesting, plus I was going to ask Caleb for a few of his warriors, but I don't need them, I have you."

Hawke looked at him wearily, "I can't sense anything unless I put my hand on it and use my power to delve into it. That was the only way I felt whatever I did in those Highever caves."

"Why?" Hawke looked at him confused, "why did you feel you needed to delve into the cave? Do you do things like that all the time?"

"Because Elayne said she liked to go in there, I was curious, and I wanted to make sure it was safe for her even though she'd already been in it before I came along. For my own peace of mind, I wanted to be sure. I have no idea why I delved down as far as I did, the cave way in the back narrowed, not even she could get in there, but there was a straight drop-down and the further I probed, the more I started feeling the taint or filth. I probed further, and that's when I felt pure evil down there, and I immediately pulled out. I knew it needed to be blocked off, and I was going to tell Bryce about it but on impulse I collapsed not only the tunnel but the hill above it by accident by the way, with my power. I wasn't going to take any chances, not with her safety. The next day after talking to Bryce, I went to the other caves he knew of, I felt the same thing in them before I collapsed them."

"Hawke, bear with me please for a minute, I need to ask you a couple of important questions," Duncan waited for Hawke to nod.

"How far down were you able to go, and could you do it again?"

"I don't know how far, but it was deep, and yes, I could if I had to." Hawke watched as Duncan contemplated his words, and Hawke made a decision. He felt it was important. "May I show you, it will involve me using my power on you, but I want to show you exactly what I felt that day. This feels too important. You'll be going into my memory, I won't even go into your mind."

Duncan understood why Hawke was volunteering this, and he gave his consent. Hawke walked over to him, put his hands on his head, he felt a warmth, then Hawke pulled him into a memory in his mind. Duncan looked through the memory, studying it, feeling what Hawke had felt, how far he had delved. Elayne gasped, and Hawke pulled away and released Duncan before going and sitting back by Elayne. Duncan noticed her shiver, and Hawke pulled her to him, rubbing her back.

She looked up at Hawke, "I knew you had gone in there, but since you've completely opened our bond, I experience things a lot different. That was wrong, Hawke. I've never felt anything like that before," she shivered again with fear in her voice, and Hawke whispered something to her before he kissed her. After Elayne's body relaxed, Hawke removed his mouth, "Do you still feel it?" Elayne shook her head, and she leaned against him content.

Hawke looked back at him, "Does that answer your question?"

"It does. Will you come with me, please?" Duncan looked over at Elayne, then back to Hawke.

"Why do I get the feeling you're not telling me everything? Why are you going out there? Why do you need me to go with you? What are you hoping I can do? I already told you, I can't feel it like you do, I have to touch something. I don't see how I can be of any use."

Duncan stood up, looking at him, "Enough with the questions, will you come or not?"

"If you're not going to be honest and straightforward and tell me the real reason, then no, I'm not going with you." He stood up to leave, but he stopped dead in his tracks when an image came into his head. He heard Elayne gasp, 'where the bloody hell did that come from,' he thought. An image of thousands upon thousands of creatures over running Ferelden, everything corrupted where they went. At the heart of it all stood a formidable dragon, its body grotesquely warped. Surrounding the creature, an eerie aura of dark energy pulsed and shimmered, draining all light around it and plunging the land into an oppressive gloom.

He looked over at her and saw her shiver. He could see and feel the fear in her and immediately went to her, wrapping his arms around her, soothing her. She looked up at him with tears in her eyes, whispering, "Hawke, you have to help, that can't be allowed to happen. You've been trying to figure out why you were asked to come when Caleb summoned you. No one knows the whole reason, but I think you were just shown a reason."

Duncan watched as Hawke closed his eyes, he knew Hawke was contemplating something and when he opened them up again, he looked at Duncan wearily, "I'll help, but I'll be going with you alone, Elayne will stay here."

Once again, Hawke looked down at Elayne as something passed between them. He heard Hawke growl and saw him close his eyes. After a few minutes, when he looked back at Duncan again, there were mixed emotions in his eyes, one of them being anger and fear. Not for himself or anyone else but for Elayne. "Fine," he snarled, "you both win. I will be coming with you, Duncan." He looked at Elayne again, and she crossed her arms and glared at him defiantly. "Elayne will be coming along even though I don't want her to," Hawke growled as he stood up. "What time do we leave, and what all do we need to bring? We don't really have anything if it's longer than a couple of days."

Caleb looked at Hawke with concern, "Let me get everything together for you guys, I'll talk to Duncan and make sure you all have what you need."

Duncan looked at Caleb and nodded his thanks before looking back at Hawke. "We'll be leaving at first light, or as soon as everything is ready tomorrow, the earlier, the better."

"Good, if you don't need me right now, I need to clear my head." He looked over at Caleb, "thank you, Caleb." He then looked back to Elayne before storming off, whistling. A truly magnificent tall black war horse came running over to Hawke, whom he jumped on, and the two were gone.

Elayne sat there looking after him, and then she looked back at them, "Sorry about that," she said, her eyes moist. "He doesn't want me to go, but I feel I need to." She looked over at Caleb, "you already said that the both of us were important for the future, and if that's the case, then I need to be involved also in every way. That and he's going to need me, especially if he uses his power and over extends himself again. I've already felt him do that, and I wasn't able to be there except watch and feel it happen through our bond. I won't go through that again and not be able to be there and help him."

Duncan looked at her with sympathy and understanding. "Elayne, there's a reason why he doesn't want you to come, where we're going it will be very dangerous. What do you know of the Wilds?"

Elayne looked at him. Once again, she cursed herself for not studying her history better. "I know the Korcari Wilds are a cold southern expanse of forest and swamp, the extent of which is not truly known. They are home to the Chasind people. And are also home to Flemeth, the legendary "Witch of the Wilds", and her daughters."

Duncan sighed, "Not only is the Wilds a home for the Chasind, but there are dangerous creatures there along with a perpetual mist surrounding the Wilds. I don't know how far in we're going to have to go, hopefully not too far. You need to be on your guard at all times. This won't be a casual stroll down to the market. Do you understand?"

"I understand, and I also understand that's even more of a reason I have to go. I won't be stuck here knowing that he might be in constant danger and I can't do anything to help him. I can't and won't sit back all safe and tucked away while he's out there risking his life."

Hawke, with no destination in mind, let Midnight run while he tried to clear his head. He heard what Elayne said to Caleb and Duncan, and he understood, but that didn't mean he wanted her in danger. They had no idea what they would be walking into or encountering. He didn't want her being out there. The Wilds were dangerous. It was called the Wilds for a reason.

'The Korcari Wilds are a cold southern expanse of forest and swamp, the extent of which is not truly known. They are home to the Chasind people, who are considered largely peaceful people; although they are still viewed as primitive and barbaric by the people of Ferelden. They try their best to live out decent, if misunderstood, lives in the Wilds: painting their faces and banding together in small communities led by shamans. Despite this, they face many raids from Templars and persecution from Fereldans.

The Wilds are also home to Flemeth, the infamous legendary "Witch of the Wilds" and her daughters. Witch of the Wilds is the name given to members of a group of apostate mages living in the Korcari Wilds and in the Tellari swamps. They are not a clan, so much as a superstitious name the locals of those regions have given.

There's also a local legend that states that the perpetual mist surrounding the Wilds is not natural but rather the result of a curse. Long ago, when werewolves terrorized the country, a powerful Alamarri arl whose territory bordered the Korcari Wilds ventured into the forest, killing every wolf he could find, as well as any Chasind because he thought the local folks could be werewolves in disguise. A Chasind mother was outraged upon finding her sons dead at the soldiers' blades - one of which she stabbed into her own heart. A great mist seeped forth from this mortal wound and spread throughout the Wilds. It was so dense that the arl and his soldiers were lost inside forever.'

He heard what Duncan was telling her, and she seemed even more determined to go. She had this need to be the one to protect him, which he found really sweet and enduring. But the Wilds were not where she needed to be. It was not safe, especially with Duncan not telling him everything.

He knew she was learning the sword. She was good. No, she wasn't just good. She was becoming great, but that didn't mean she needed to put herself in harm's way. He felt her in his head, "then what's the point of learning, Hawke? You already know part of the reason I wanted to do this. So I can be with you and know how to protect myself, that includes something like this. I'm not training this hard for nothing, Hawke. I want to be part of everything you do, at least until we start having children. You also know the other reason I have to go. In the event of an emergency, if you push yourself too far, would Duncan know what to do? I can't take that risk, Hawke. This is why I'm determined to go with you. You've already given me your word that I could accompany you, and I'm committed to that promise.

Damn it, he thought, she had a bloody good point. He hated it, though. Something didn't feel right about this, Duncan was keeping something from him. He examined the image that had popped in his head earlier. "Your safety is my top priority, especially considering that he's not telling us everything. Elayne, the mere idea of losing you terrifies me. You are my entire world; without you, I would be lost. I can not afford to let anything happen to you."

Hours later, he finally slowed Midnight down, and they headed back to camp. Elayne was a beacon to him because he had no idea where he was. She laughed bitterly, "At least I'm glad I'm good for something." He groaned. He knew he was hurting her, but he was afraid for her. He was afraid of losing her. It would be dangerous where they were going.

When he finally got to their tent, she came out and stood there looking up at him still on Midnight. She was so unbelievably beautiful, she was his everything and there wasn't anything he wouldn't do for her including this, no matter how much it pained him. He sighed and reached his hand out to her. She put her hand in his, and he pulled her up to him on Midnight. Letting the horse wander, he wrapped his arms around her, drawing her in close and inhaling the delicate floral fragrance that was a part of her. She finally turned around and laid her head against his chest, looking up at him, her hand reaching up touching his face. Eyes closed, he relished the moment, immersing himself in the warmth of her presence before finally opening them to look down at her.

He lowered his head to hers, "I love you, Elayne, if anything happens to you," he whispered in her ear before his mouth took hers. What it really came down to was that she was right, he needed her, and he didn't want to be away from her, not to where they were going.

He lifted his head and looked at her. Before he could say anything, she put both her arms around him. "Hawke," she said gently, "I promise I'll be careful. I won't stray from you. I promise to listen to everything you say and follow your lead. And I promise to keep my jewelry on until we're back here. You have my word on that." As she spoke, her eyes remained fixed on his, feeling the turmoil and emotions battling within him. After a brief pause, he closed his eyes and nodded slowly. In that moment of silent agreement, she knew she had won. Resting her head against his chest, she let the steady beat of his heart lull her, bringing her the comfort she sought.

She looked up at him, her hand going into his shirt, "Hawke, I love you."

He looked down at her, "I love you too, Elayne."

"Where are we going, Hawke?"

"I don't know, I was letting Midnight wander where he wanted."

She looked at him in exasperation, "Do you at least know where we are?"

"Maybe."

"Arik Hawke, you're impossible sometimes."

He looked down at her before nuzzling her neck, "I do have my redeeming qualities sometimes," he said with a straight face before he suddenly gave her a roguish grin. "Are you sure you want to go back, we could lose ourselves out here for a while."

"I never said anything about going back, I just asked if you knew where we were going and where we are."

After giving a nonchalant shrug, he adjusted Midnight's position, and they came to a small area revealing a clearing that she instantly recognized. It was the place where they had bathed together not long ago. "Looks like you do know your way around," she remarked.

Once he had dismounted, he offered her a hand to help her down from Midnight. "There's no way I'm getting into that water, Arik Hawke. You caught me off guard last time, but I'm not falling for that trick again."

He laughed, pulling her close to him. "No, my love, I have no interest in the water today." He found a log and closed his eyes briefly, she felt his power, and gasped as a lush soft bed of grass rose under her feet, he pulled her down beside him leaning against the grass covered log. "I thought maybe we could just sit here and lose ourselves for a while, unless you want to go back."

She leaned back against him as he wrapped his arms around her, "No, this is good, baby."

She closed her eyes and put her mind in his, listening and feeling what he did. She heard the crickets in the darker part of the woods, the birds chirping in the trees, their wings flapping as they flew around. She even heard the rustle of leaves brushing against each other in the gentle wind. The soft trickling of the nearby stream. The air was even crisp and refreshing. She took it all in and found a soothing calmness she had never really felt out in the woods before.

Hawke looked down at her as she took everything in, realizing how beautiful and enchanting the woods could be.

"Soothing, isn't it," he whispered to her.

Keeping her eyes closed, she nodded, "I never really took it in before."

He tilted her face towards him, his lips softly meeting hers. In his warm embrace, she turned, wrapping her arms around his neck. Briefly, she sensed his power once more as he cast a protective barrier around them. "Stand up," he whispered in a husky voice when he pulled away. Obeying his command, she rose, drawn to his intense gaze.

Fixing his gaze intensely upon hers, he drew her closer, his hands gliding down her body with a gentle touch. As he lowered himself to kneel before her, he parted her legs ever so slightly. Starting at her ankles, his warm palms traced an agonizingly slow path upward beneath her dress while his mouth followed along, leaving a fiery, wet trail across her skin. A soft moan escaped her, her hands instinctively going to his shoulders. He relished her reaction, ensuring to explore both her inner thighs, before his fingers slipped inside her as she surrendered to his sweet invasion, her body responding eagerly to him.

With a mischievous grin, he gazed up at her, his fingers playing over her clit while his mouth and tongue traced tantalizing paths along her thighs. Whimpering and breathless, she watched as he inched closer to her core, his fingers continuing their relentless dance until she surrendered to the pleasure.

"Hawke," she whispered, her voice barely audible as his mouth lingered, trailing slowly over her sensitive skin. Fingers still working their magic, he brought her to the brink once more. Finally, when his hot mouth found its target, he flicked his tongue against her clit. A gasp escaped her as her body erupted; his mouth enveloped her, and she cried out in pleasure. Each stroke of his tongue delved deep into her, savoring her sweetness as waves of pleasure crashed through her, leaving her breathless and quivering in delight.

He drew back from between her legs, his hands and lips exploring their way back up her body. As he reached her breasts, he lavished attention on her sensitive nipples with soft kisses, teasing little flicks of his tongue, and gentle nibbles, leaving her breathless and craving more. Slowly, he removed her dress and laid her gently down, his fingers trailing down her sides as he captured her mouth with his, their tongues dancing together. A soft whimper escaped her as he deepened the kiss, his fingers slipping inside her, reigniting the fire within her.

A soft moan escaped her lips, rocking her hips in rhythm with his movements as he worked his fingers in and out. As his lips left hers, she felt the heat of his breath on her ear, a tantalizing whisper that sent shivers down her spine.

"Let it out, my sweet angel, give me more," she heard him whisper. His hard shaft pressed against her through the fabric of his pants. Every tremor of his body echoed her own as she cried out, her body clenching around his fingers in waves of ecstasy.

With a hungry growl, he leaned closer, whispering urgently in her ear, demanding more of her. She surrendered to his desires, his mouth leaving her ear to trail down to her breasts. He worshipped her sensitive nipples, savoring her as her hips bucked wildly, rocking to the rhythm of his fingers plunging in and out of her. Another scream tore from her lips, and she felt his body tremble, his growl vibrating around her sensitive nipple as the waves of ecstasy took hold once more.

He slowly moved his way back between her thighs, where he once again feasted on her with an insatiable hunger. With every flick and swirl of his tongue, he urged her to surrender completely, her passion releasing over his tongue and into his mouth. Soon, she was left panting, her body glistening with a fine layer of sweat. She felt a tingling warmth radiating through her as he tended to her exhaustion with each tantalizing stroke.

When he finally pulled away, rising to his feet, she couldn't help but admire him. She feasted her eyes on him, as he pulled off his shirt, revealing his perfectly sculpted upper body, muscles flexing and shifting with each movement.

Captivated by the sight, her fingers slipped gently between her legs, moving in a soft rhythm as she kept her attention fully on him as he unfastened his pants. He noticed her pace quickening, his own excitement building as he unveiled more of himself to her. Each movement sent shivers through her body, her fingers working faster as her hips moved in rhythm, moans escaping her lips as he finally freed himself, bringing another wave of passion that coursed through her.

He flashed a mischievous grin as he slid off his pants completely, a wicked spark in his eyes. She whimpered, her pleas for him to join her barely audible, yet filled with desperation. Kneeling between her legs, he grasped her hips, lifting them slightly as her hands wrapped around him, guiding him towards her entrance, and with a powerful thrust, he buried himself within her.

As he pushed himself deep inside her, a soft groan escaped his lips as pleasure coursed through him. "You feel so incredibly hot, wet, and inviting," he whispered in her ear, bringing another cry of pleasure from her, igniting an undeniable passion in the air around them. His body shook with intensity as he picked up the pace. Each thrust drew out a cry from her, a sound that fueled his urgency. She wrapped her arms and legs around him, pulling him closer as he drove deeper in and out of her. Her hips arched in wild abandon, and the sensation of her tightening around him sent waves of ecstasy through both of them. The tension built in her, as her body tightened more around him, sending waves of pleasure through her as she surrendered to the intoxicating rhythm of their connection.

"Oh sweet mercy," she whispered later as she lay breathless atop him, her body exhausted and pleasantly spent. A soft chuckle rumbled from beneath her, and she lifted her head and met his gaze. "What?" she murmured softly.

With a playful glint in his eyes, he drew her up his body, her head even with his. "You're absolutely amazing, my little wildcat," he growled, a low, primal sound. "Just as hungry and passionate as I am." As he captured her lips in a heated kiss, a wave of warmth surged through her, melting away her fatigue and discomfort. He thrust his hips upward, his shaft still nestled deep within her.

Her eyes sparkled as she looked down at him, a teasing grin crossing her face. "Again, my love?"

His arms encircled her, holding her close. "I can't help it, baby. You leave me wanting more, my fiery, irresistible goddess," he growled, driving his hips upward once again as he sat her up, sinking even deeper into her.

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

She looked over at him and grinned as he grabbed another heaping plate full of food, "what," he chuckled, "I worked up an appetite earlier." She just shook her head in amusement and remembered just what had fueled that hunger. A pleasant warmth spread through her, and a soft groan of pleasure escaped her lips.

Grabbing her sword, she decided to go practice, trying to clear her mind. Behind her, she could hear his chuckles following her as she walked away.

Concentrating her thoughts became important as she realized the tasks that lay ahead before their departure the next day. Duncan had already informed her that she would require sturdier clothes than her elven dresses. After practice, she joined the other women, and with their help, she gathered not only what she and Hawke would need but also some additional items she had requested. When she got back from their trip, they promised to teach her the intricacies of crafting their armor and clothing, a thought that excited her. The elegance of the female elven armor captivated her, striking the perfect balance between lightness and mobility. While also enticing him, as she caught his hungry gaze lingering on her.

Though she had arranged for a few outfits for herself, she had also requested something made for him, uncertain if he would choose to wear it. He had never shown much interest towards armor, a feeling she understood well. After all, the conventional armor could be clumsy and burdensome, making maneuverability a challenge.

With her preparations complete, she made her way to the sparring ring, eager to watch him train. By the time she arrived, he was deep into his practice, fully immersed in his movements. Once he finished, Duncan challenged him to a sparring match. She felt him deliberating the decision, and soon, a mischievous thought crossed his mind. A groan escaped her lips; he seemed intent on punishing himself. He turned to her, a playful grin on his face, "Not punishment, my love; I simply need to push my limits even further," he said in her head.

With a glint in his eyes, he turned to Caleb and Othanar, inviting them to join the challenge, his excitement growing when they both agreed. The upcoming challenge would put Hawke against not only the seasoned elven fighters, Othanar and Caleb, but also the seasoned Grey Warden, Duncan. A sense of hesitation washed over her when it came to Duncan; neither she nor Hawke had yet witnessed his skill with a blade, Hawke would be getting a crash course with him. Once again, she felt his presence in her thoughts, "Elayne, this is how it will be in the competition. I won't have the luxury of watching their every move or fighting technique before the duels."

With a surge of determination coursing through him, he prepared himself mentally, and she withdrew her mind from his, making sure she wasn't going to be a distraction.

Miya came over to stand by her along with a couple of the other women she had come to be good friends with. She valued their acceptance of her. They knew who she was, but they weren't out to befriend her because of her name. They had no interest, and their friendship was genuine, real. "You're lucky he's not an elf. Just imagine all the other women that would be vying for his attention!" Laughter bubbled up from the group, and Elayne couldn't help but smile, knowing this was just another instance of friendly teasing.

She knew exactly how he looked with his shirt off. The way his muscles rippled effortlessly with each movement was nothing short of captivating. His masculinity radiated strength, creating a breathtaking masterpiece for the eyes to feast upon. She once again felt a warmth spread throughout her, her heart bursting with love knowing that he belonged solely to her.

Nearby, she noticed two women whispering, their giggles swirling around her. Snippets of their conversation caught her ear, sending heat rushing to her cheeks. Miya gave her another playful nudge, a knowing grin on her face, and asked teasingly, "So, what's the verdict? Is he or isn't he?"

Elayne felt heat creeping into her cheeks, intensifying the warmth, but she turned to her companions, "He is absolutely magnificent in every way." Another blush crept across her cheeks before a giggle escaped her lips.

They formed a circle, each woman sharing bold stories about their experiences with the men in their lives. Elayne reveled in the camaraderie, secure in the knowledge that the elven women posed no threat. After all, Hawke, being human, was off limits to them. She remembered how different it was outside the camp, where she had faced other women who paid no mind to his marital status. Their wandering gazes and hands had shown her the depths of jealousy, but she also understood that there was no cause for concern here. He belonged to her completely, and she to him; their bond was unwavering. At times, the purity and intensity of his love brought her to tears of joy, a happiness so profound she felt as though she might burst from it.

Miya playfully nudged Elayne once again, wearing a mischievous grin, and pointed toward Hawke, who was engaged in his sparring. Elayne followed her gaze and caught sight of his smoldering eyes locked onto hers as he withdrew his blade from Duncan's neck. Glancing around, she realized the other two men had already been dispatched. Her gaze returned to Hawke's, and the fire in his eyes sent a shiver down her spine, causing her to gasp softly. Heat coursed through her, awakening a thrilling awareness that left her undeniably aware of her own desire.

'Bloody hell,' she thought not for the first time how infuriating it was that he could look at her that way, igniting a spark of desire that sent shivers racing through her body. The warmth in his smile, that particular grin, melted her insides. He walked over to the other men, talking to them about the sparring match that she had completely missed because her mind was elsewhere.

Finally, after the conversation was over, he turned back to her, the heat in his eyes searing her skin as his gaze traveled her body, igniting a fire within her as he approached her. Miya nudged her playfully, urging her forward as laughter erupted from the group of women as they departed, leaving her alone with a whirlwind of thoughts about what he might have overheard with the other women and the thoughts she had been having when she felt him in her head.

A smirk crept onto his lips as he locked his eyes into hers. "All of it, my sexy little wildcat," he murmured with a growl. The heat of his gaze intensified, making her skin flush as longing washed over her. Unable to suppress a whimper, she found herself scooped up into his arms, her palm resting against his warm, damp chest. Their lips collided with a fierce urgency that took her breath away as he carried her back to the tent, her pulse racing at Miya's teasing yell, urging her to enjoy the ride amidst the laughter of the women.

Inside her mind, a chuckle resonated as he teased her, "Are you ready for the ride, my love?" She gasped at his words, the sensation of his fingers grazing her nipple sent electric pulses through her. He broke their kiss and settled onto a stump outside their tent, still holding her closely in his arms.

She turned around, straddling him, her hands running across his chest. "Hawke," she started to apologize, but he grinned at her.

"Elayne, no need. I'm glad you're enjoying yourself here, I'm happy that you can be you. You're making friends, I understand," he murmured, his mouth brushing close to her ear. "Hearing you speak about me in that way ignites a fire within me, my love."

Drawing her closer, she could feel his arousal pressing against her. A soft groan escaped her lips as her hands slipped downward to his pants' buttons. "I'm ready for my ride, darling," she purred, lifting herself up before lowering onto him, burying him inside her.

A low growl escaped him, his eyes smoldering with intensity as he grasped her hips, driving her up and down on him. Their gazes locked with a primal connection while she moved with fervor, pushing herself closer. Her body tightened around him, a gasp escaping her lips as her movements quickened, burying him deeper within her. She felt a rush of power surge through them, and in that moment of overwhelming pleasure, she arched her back and surrendered to the exhilaration, her cries echoing as she lost herself completely in the blissful waves washing over her.

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

To be continued...