I want to scream talk about the first night again.
Another opinion that changed for me over the years - about this dialogue option. I didn't pick it on my first PT, and in all my time here only chose it, like, once just to see what they'd say. I've always been weary of it, thought it insensitive and selfish and just not fitting for my char.
However, much like with Fenris's part in Night Terrors, my view has changed.
When Hawke says this, he doesn't sound like anything I'd imagined. To me he seems weary and tense, possibly trying to move the conversation forward in a light-hearted manner without really pushing. Subtly poking for details to understand just how Fenris really feels and how he should act (Purple Hawke is not just funny, he's bloody witty). It sure helps that I have a better general understanding of my Hawke now.
But the point is that it sheds more light on Fenris's reaction and state of mind. DA2 fans have always had very different opinions on how the first night really went and many thought it was traumatic for Fenris, linking it to his past sexual abuse.
And I do not agree with that take.
In the beginning it was utterly confusing and I honestly couldn't decide what to make of it all.
When did the flashback hit? did Hawke not notice at all that Fenris was not okay? if it was sex that provoked it then how is Fenris able to have fun with Isabela with no trouble AT ALL? HOW could it be "better than anything I could have dreamed"?
Common take was that Fenris's feelings for Hawke made it different, but if so, could it be about a past love? (hated this one, too depressing)
I'd really like to believe that the conclusion I decided on for myself considers all those details.
That it wasn't really about sex or romance, but the feeling of (being grounded by a deep connection?) peace (and safety) that Fenris simply hadn't known in his current life - in slavery and on the run and wouldn't likely experience with Izzy (i love you, but come on), but had felt when he had his family with him, and Hawke made him remember what it's like.
