Aveline: The *True* Champion Of Dragon Age 2's Ending?

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Aveline: The *True* Champion of Dragon Age 2's Ending?When we think of Dragon Age 2, one name immediately springs to mind as the 'Champion of Kirkwall': *Hawke*. Right? But what if I told you, dear readers, that while Hawke might have gotten all the flashy titles and dramatic spotlight, there's a strong case to be made for someone else entirely? Someone who consistently worked behind the scenes, upholding order, protecting the innocent, and dealing with the everyday chaos that Hawke often *caused* or stumbled into. I'm talking about none other than the stalwart, utterly dependable, and often hilariously grumpy Captain of the Guard, _Aveline Vallen_. Guys, it’s a thought that crosses many a fan's mind after multiple playthroughs: was Hawke *really* the champion, or was Aveline, with her unyielding dedication to Kirkwall and its people, the one who truly embodied that title? Let’s dive deep into this fascinating perspective, exploring why Aveline's quiet heroism and steadfast commitment often overshadowed Hawke's more flamboyant, albeit pivotal, role in the tragic tale of Kirkwall. We'll unpack her unwavering moral compass, her strategic thinking, and her often-overlooked actions that kept the city from fully crumbling long before Hawke's final showdowns. This isn't just about a funny observation from the game's end; it's about re-evaluating what it truly means to be a 'champion' in a city teetering on the brink of anarchy, and why Aveline's consistent efforts make her a profoundly compelling candidate for that honor, perhaps even more so than the protagonist we control. It’s a compelling argument, one that makes you rethink the entire narrative arc of Dragon Age 2 and appreciate the subtle yet powerful storytelling that Bioware wove into its complex characters. You might just find yourself nodding along, realizing that sometimes, the true heroes are the ones quietly getting things done, rather than those hogging the headlines. So buckle up, because we're about to give Aveline the recognition she truly deserves.## The Champion's Burden: Who *Is* the Champion of Kirkwall?When Dragon Age 2 unfolds, *Hawke* is undoubtedly the character thrust into the role of the 'Champion of Kirkwall'. From being a simple refugee fleeing Lothering to becoming the central figure in the city's mage-templar conflict, Hawke's journey is one of reluctant heroism, forced leadership, and often, sheer reactive chaos. The title itself is bestowed upon them due to their direct involvement in major events, their ability to rally allies, and their capacity to influence both sides of the escalating tensions. Hawke is the one who faces the Arishok, brokers deals with powerful factions, and ultimately stands at the epicenter of the final, devastating civil war. Their choices, whether they side with mages or templars, whether they embrace a diplomatic or aggressive approach, profoundly shape the destiny of Kirkwall. They are the protagonist, the player character, and by extension, the focal point through which the entire narrative is experienced. The game's very structure funnels all significant developments through Hawke, making them the default 'hero' in the eyes of many, including Cassandra Pentaghast who seeks them out years later for answers. This protagonist-centric narrative reinforces the idea that the 'Champion' title is uniquely Hawke's, a badge earned through tumultuous trials and personal sacrifice.However, an honest look reveals that Hawke's heroism is often born out of necessity, desperation, or simply being in the wrong place at the right (or utterly wrong) time. They don't *seek* the mantle of Champion; it's thrust upon them by circumstance and the sheer gravity of events. Many of Hawke's decisions, while impactful, are also reactive, responding to crises rather than preventing them. They are a force of nature, yes, but often a disruptive one, their very presence in Kirkwall seemingly accelerating its downward spiral. This isn't to diminish Hawke's courage or influence, but rather to question whether their brand of 'championing' is the *only* kind, or even the most effective. While Hawke is busy fighting dragons, challenging Qunari leaders, and navigating the political minefield of the Circle and the Chantry, the day-to-day grind of keeping the city from tearing itself apart falls to others. This crucial, often thankless work is precisely where Aveline Vallen shines, highlighting a different, perhaps more fundamental, interpretation of what a 'champion' truly is. It makes you wonder if being a champion is about being the one who makes the biggest splash, or the one who quietly ensures the ship doesn't sink altogether. Hawke is the earthquake, but Aveline is the foundation that tries to hold everything together. This distinction is critical for understanding why Aveline, despite her lack of a grand title, might actually embody the spirit of Kirkwall's true protector more consistently and effectively than the one everyone *calls* the Champion. It's a nuanced perspective that truly enriches the understanding of the game's complex characters and its overarching themes of duty, sacrifice, and the often-unseen heroes among us.## Aveline's Unsung Heroism: Why She Deserves the Crown*Aveline Vallen's* journey in Dragon Age 2 is a masterclass in quiet, unwavering dedication, making her an incredibly strong contender for the title of Kirkwall's *true* champion. While Hawke is busy making headlines and facing down epic foes, Aveline is consistently putting Kirkwall and its citizens first, often at great personal cost. From her early days as a displaced knight-captain to her eventual role as the Captain of the Guard, her actions are always rooted in a profound sense of duty and a pragmatic desire to maintain order and protect the innocent. She's not looking for glory; she's simply doing her job, and doing it with an integrity that rarely wavers. Think about it, guys: how many times did Aveline stand firm against corruption, negotiate tense situations, or put herself in harm's way to ensure the safety of others, even when it wasn't flashy or directly advanced Hawke's personal narrative? Her leadership within the Kirkwall Guard, a notoriously corrupt and underfunded institution, is nothing short of miraculous. She fights to clean it up, to instill discipline, and to ensure that the common people have someone they can actually trust. This steady, persistent effort to uplift and protect the community, often without recognition, is the very essence of true heroism. She's the consistent backbone of Kirkwall, the silent guardian who ensures that despite all the grand chaos Hawke attracts, there's still a semblance of law and order trying to hold the city together. Her commitment extends beyond just duty; it's a deep-seated care for the city and its people, a characteristic that defines a champion in the most profound way. She’s not just reacting to disasters; she's constantly working to prevent them, or at least mitigate their impact, long before they become headline news. She's the unsung hero, the reliable anchor in a sea of madness, and her consistent efforts make her a profoundly compelling candidate for the 'true' champion, far more than the one who simply bears the title. Contrast Aveline's practical, consistent efforts with Hawke's often reactive and, let's be honest, sometimes chaotic role. While Hawke's decisions are monumental, they frequently escalate situations or are direct responses to crises that have already spiraled out of control. Hawke, for all their strength and charisma, often acts as a catalyst, pushing events forward with significant, sometimes destructive, force. Aveline, on the other hand, is the steady hand, the one trying to apply the brakes, to clean up the mess, and to maintain some semblance of stability amidst the accelerating chaos. Her leadership is not about grand pronouncements but about diligent administration, meticulous investigation, and the sheer grit to stand up for what's right, even when it's unpopular or dangerous. She's the one dealing with the aftermath of Hawke's exploits, patching up the city, and trying to prevent the next disaster. Remember how she tirelessly works to investigate crimes, manage the guard, and keep the peace in the various districts? These are the thankless, yet absolutely vital, tasks that truly protect a city and its inhabitants. Hawke might slay a monster or defeat a powerful enemy, but Aveline ensures that the infrastructure of society doesn't completely collapse. Her steadfastness and integrity are a beacon in the morally ambiguous world of Kirkwall, where corruption is rampant and justice is often for sale. She represents the best of what a public servant can be, demonstrating that true leadership isn't always about wielding magic or a sword in dramatic duels, but about consistent, ethical action that benefits the many. It’s about showing up every day, doing the hard work, and never wavering in your commitment to protecting those who cannot protect themselves. This steadfast dedication, day in and day out, is precisely why Aveline, despite never being officially crowned, embodies the spirit of Kirkwall's true champion far more consistently and profoundly than Hawke. Her legacy isn't built on dramatic confrontations, but on the quiet, enduring strength that kept a city from tearing itself apart, piece by painstaking piece.## The Grand Finale: Aveline's Stunned Silence vs. Hawke's SpotlightThe observation that *Aveline wasn't stunned* at the end of Dragon Age 2, while everyone else was reacting to the magnitude of Hawke's story, is perhaps the most telling detail about her true nature and role. When Cassandra Pentaghast interviews the various companions about Hawke's whereabouts and deeds, each character reacts with a mixture of awe, exasperation, or profound emotional impact, reflecting the extraordinary, often unbelievable, nature of Hawke's journey. Varric, with his characteristic flair, spins tales of heroism and legend. Merrill speaks of the deep connections forged, Fenris of the internal struggles, and Isabella of the wild adventures. But Aveline? She’s calm, composed, and utterly unsurprised. Why? Because for Aveline, Hawke's actions, while certainly dramatic, were simply part of the ongoing chaos that she, as Captain of the Guard, had to contend with every single day. She wasn't stunned because Hawke's 'championing' was just another Tuesday in Kirkwall, another set of fires to put out, another group of people to protect from the collateral damage. Her perspective is one of a weary, dedicated civil servant who has seen it all, and Hawke’s grand deeds, while significant, are merely pieces in the larger, much messier puzzle of keeping a city from imploding. Her lack of shock isn't indifference; it's a testament to her pragmatism and her deep immersion in the gritty reality of Kirkwall's decay. She knew the stakes, she knew the constant threat, and she simply did her duty. Her composure underscores the idea that while Hawke was the one drawing all the attention, Aveline was the steady, unwavering force that continued to function, to protect, and to serve, regardless of who was making the biggest ruckus. She's the person who cleans up the parade confetti, not the one riding on the float. This understated reaction speaks volumes, highlighting her fundamental difference from the other companions and solidifying her status as the quiet, consistent guardian of Kirkwall, proving that true heroism often goes hand-in-hand with a profound sense of normalcy and duty, rather than flamboyant spectacle. It’s a powerful moment, one that truly cements her role as the unsung hero, the steady hand amidst the city’s constant turmoil.The implications of Cassandra's interview are also profoundly interesting when viewed through the lens of Aveline's understated heroism. Why did Cassandra seek out Hawke, the one who became the *symbol* of the conflict, instead of Aveline, the steady, functional leader who actively worked to maintain order? It boils down to the difference between a figurehead champion and a functional champion. Hawke, despite their often reluctant involvement, became the undeniable face of Kirkwall's descent into civil war. They were the lightning rod, the catalyst, the one whose story was dramatic enough to capture the attention of the world and, crucially, of the Seekers. Cassandra wasn't looking for the person who quietly kept the peace; she was looking for the person who was inextricably linked to the *cataclysmic events* that shook the very foundations of the world. Hawke's narrative was grand, tragic, and undeniable.Aveline, on the other hand, was the rock, the constant, the one who consistently tried to *mitigate* the chaos. While her efforts were invaluable, they weren't the stuff of legends or prophetic inquiries. Her heroism was of the quiet, everyday variety: protecting innocents, upholding the law, fighting corruption from within. These actions, though crucial for the city's survival, don't make for the dramatic, world-changing story that Cassandra was investigating. Hawke represented the *failure* of Kirkwall to maintain peace, a failure that had global repercussions. Aveline represented the *struggle* to prevent that failure, a struggle that was ultimately overshadowed by the larger narrative. This distinction is vital: Hawke was the chosen champion because they were the *story* that needed to be told, the witness to the end of an era. Aveline, however, was the one living the *reality* of that era, shouldering the actual burden of leadership and protection. So while Hawke gets the interview and the spotlight, Aveline carries the weight of Kirkwall's lingering trauma, a testament to her truly champion-like resolve, even if the world never officially recognizes it. She doesn't need the title; she embodies it through her actions, proving that sometimes, the real heroes are the ones who simply keep going, day after day, regardless of who is watching or what grand titles are being bestowed. It’s a powerful commentary on how history is often written, focusing on the dramatic rather than the foundational, and it leaves us appreciating Aveline’s quiet strength even more deeply.## Beyond the End Credits: Aveline's Lasting ImpactEven after the tumultuous events of Dragon Age 2 draw to a close, and Hawke potentially disappears from the spotlight, *Aveline's* lasting impact on Kirkwall is undeniable and profoundly significant. While Hawke's story concludes with a dramatic flight and a mystery surrounding their whereabouts, Aveline remains in Kirkwall, continuing her thankless yet vital work as Captain of the Guard. Her presence is not just a placeholder; it's a stabilizing force in a city ravaged by conflict and left teetering on the brink of complete societal collapse. She doesn't abandon her post or her people. Instead, she stays, steadfast in her commitment to rebuilding, to maintaining what little order remains, and to protecting the citizens who have endured so much. This unwavering dedication showcases a profound sense of responsibility and an enduring love for her city, qualities that are the bedrock of any true champion. Her leadership after the Mage-Templar war, while largely unseen by the player, is crucial for Kirkwall's ability to even begin healing.Without Aveline, the already fragmented Kirkwall Guard would likely dissolve into complete corruption or inefficiency, leaving the city defenseless against opportunistic criminals, lingering fanatics, and the pervasive fear that would grip the populace. Her quiet resilience ensures that there is still a beacon of justice and order, a consistent presence that citizens can rely on, even when all other institutions seem to have failed. This continued commitment, long after the main narrative has concluded and the 'hero' has departed, truly solidifies her claim to being Kirkwall's *true* protector. She doesn't need external validation or a grand title; her actions speak for themselves, echoing through the rebuilt streets and the renewed sense of safety, however fragile, that she helps to foster. Her legacy is not built on legend, but on the enduring strength of character and the quiet, persistent effort to do what is right, day in and day out, demonstrating that real heroism often lies in the willingness to simply show up and keep fighting for a better tomorrow, even when the cameras have stopped rolling and the spotlight has moved on. She is the embodiment of resilience, the quiet guardian who ensures that life, however difficult, can continue for the people of Kirkwall, making her the ultimate champion in the most profound and meaningful sense.## ConclusionSo, guys, while Hawke definitely owns the title of the 'Champion of Kirkwall' in Dragon Age 2, and their journey is epic and undeniably central to the plot, isn't it crystal clear that *Aveline Vallen* embodies the spirit of a true protector in a way that often surpasses our main protagonist? Her unwavering dedication, her tireless efforts to maintain order, and her consistent putting of Kirkwall's citizens above all else paint a compelling picture of a champion who doesn't seek glory but earns it through sheer, unyielding integrity.She's the quiet backbone, the steadfast anchor in a city drowning in chaos. From cleaning up the corrupt Kirkwall Guard to facing down threats with a pragmatic resolve, Aveline is constantly working behind the scenes, ensuring that the city has a chance to survive Hawke's often dramatic and world-altering exploits. Her calm, unsurprised reaction at the end of the game, while everyone else is reeling, perfectly encapsulates her understanding of the city's perpetual struggle and her own unwavering commitment to it.Ultimately, while Hawke may be the legend, the symbol, and the one whose story gets told, Aveline is the functional champion, the one who truly kept the pieces together. She didn't need a grand title or a Seeker's interview to prove her worth; her actions spoke for themselves. So the next time you're replaying Dragon Age 2, take a moment to appreciate Aveline Vallen, the *true* unsung champion of Kirkwall. She truly deserved that spotlight, wouldn't you agree?