The docks still creak under her feet, and it’s the same worn steps that lead to Lowtown. The Hanged Man still dangles above the door as she pushes it open. Her feet find the steps to Varric’s suite.

“Hawke!” Varric cries. Blinking back tears, she looks around. Isabela is here, resplendent in a feathered hat. Aveline, resting against the wall, nods as if Hawke had never left. And, in the corner –

“Sara,” he says, and moves forward haltingly. She takes him in; bones showing through skin, eyes sunken, cheeks hollow, skin pale.

“Fenris.” Her voice catches. She impulsively reaches for him and he returns her embrace.

“What are you all doing here?” she asks.

“Same as you,” Varric says. “Blondie’s anniversary.”

“Didn’t think I’d ever be back,” Isabela says.

“Admit it, you missed us,” replies Aveline.

A hesitant knock and Bethany, wearing the robes of a First Enchanter, is standing at the door.

“Do you have room for one more?” she asks, and Sara cries out and pulls her into a hug.

“I missed you so much,” she says, then lifts her eyes to the room. “I missed you all, so much.”

Fenris catches her eye over Bethany’s silvering hair.