Ghost Story

[GamesMaster]

"The church appreciates your cooperation," says John.

"Of course. I and my family are happy to comply with any and all investigations," Rhea replies, her tone tired, stretched. "Baking soda, cornmeal, and... did you want the figs?"

[Varric]

"Figs will work just fine," Varric agrees without moving, though he shifts his gaze to the paladin. "Something get stolen during the Rat God swarm?"

[GamesMaster]

"No, no. This investigation is into the source of the rats. We just want to be certain there is no malificar among our ranks."

Rhea swallows hard, keeping her eyes lowered. "I am happy to comply, though I assure you, my son is no malificar."

"We shall see."

[Varric]

"A boy? Summon that thing?" Varric snorts loudly. "I wasn't able to get a good line on her exact nature and such-- I've sent a message to Nyra to have some speciality books sent to me-- but from what I was able to find in our--" His breath hitches a little before he forces himself to keep going. "My library, that was an Animal Lord. Serious heavy hitter, not something a child could influence."

[GamesMaster]

John turns his full regard to Varric, the weight of his resolve heavy on Varric's eyes. "I see. You seem quite knowledgeable about the dark arts."

[Varric]

"I'm a scholar," Varric says simply. Welp, got his attention of the boy (good job, now what?) alright. "All knowledge has value, even the dark. Aren't you taught extensively about sceleratis as part of your paladin training? Knowing your enemy is one of the greatest weapons one can possess."

[GamesMaster]

"Are you." The skepticism drips off him. "Regardless, I will be thorough in my pursuit of the facts."

[Varric]

"Facts are good," Varric agrees brightly. "I'm no Truther, but I certainly approve of having verified, detailed facts to base action on."

[GamesMaster]

"Here's your figs," says Rhea, moving over to thrust a bag into Varric's hands. "I'll put it all on your tab. Sorry, but I'll need to close up shop for an hour or so."

[Varric]

Varric glances at her for a moment, then sighs. "Alright. I'll be back tomorrow to drop off the rat poison and settle up. Unless you have some questions for me, Bright's?"

[GamesMaster]

"I shall. But I know where to find you. Enjoy your figs."

[Varric]

Varric frowns a little, then shrugs. "I'll be in town again for most of tomorrow, helping out with repairs and the like. I'm sure we'll run into each other."

[GamesMaster]

"I am sure."

Rhea coughs a little, moving to hold the door open for Varric. "Thanks again."

[Varric]

Varric taps his forehead with two fingers in a farewell as he slips out of the general store. Well, fuck. I'll need to talk to Emma about this (better to scare/worry her now than to have it come up abruptly) which is going to be great fun. Sighing, he begins the trek back home.

[Marian Hawke]

When he arrives, Emma is in the library once more, laying against the ghost dog as she reads a book. She gives him a simple salute as he enters, not looking up as she turns the page.