Ghost Story

[GamesMaster]

"Your apprentice, Emma. How is she handling the isolation from her peers in the village?"

[Varric]

Double dammit (deny? no, too exposed). "That would require her to have peers in the village," he says blandly. "But she prefers her privacy even more than I do. She's got the library, lessons with me and her own mind. Seems content."

[GamesMaster]

"That's good to hear," says Maggie. "Young people can be so passionate, so full of life. Don't you agree? It's wonderful to witness their joys and sorrows as they fumble their way toward adulthood."

[Varric]

The dwarf makes a face. "If you say so. I prefer adults. Actual adults, meaning a complete array of reasoning, critical thinking and deductive logic skills. Thankfully Emma is incredibly gifted in all of those and more." He gives her a look. "Small talk aside, I doubt you made the long walk out here just to check in on me."

[GamesMaster]

Maggie nods. "Gifted, is it? Is that what you prefer in an apprentice? A young person's energy and passion, with an advanced intellect and mind?"

[Varric]

Varric's brow furrows. "No," he says slowly. "Youthful energy and passion are practically synonymous with reckless and impulsive. I'd prefer Emma was ten years older than she is, but a mind like hers is far too rare to not snag her now. She's stubborn and independent-- which is more good than bad in my book-- but steady for her age, so it's not as bad as it could be. And again, what's your purpose today?" His eyes narrow, a fierce, protective glint surfacing in them. "And why are you so interested in Emma?" he demands in a low, cold voice.

[GamesMaster]

"My purpose here today is to check on your apprentice," she says calmly. "You and John may have your disputes, but Emma is a young person caught in the crossfire, and I wished to ensure that she has whatever she needs."

[Varric]

Varric blinks a few times. "Everything she needs?"  he echoes. "House, food, books, lessons, protection... Not being able to go to the store makes things harder but we're fine."

[GamesMaster]

"Young people need social contact," she says gently. "I'm sure you've noticed they grow rather attached very quickly. Perhaps you even enjoy being the center of her social world? It's a heady feeling, being needed so strongly."

[Varric]

Wait. Wait just a damn minute. "What the no-happening fuck? I am not fucking her! Ever!"

[GamesMaster]

"Of course, of course. No-one's accusing you of misdeeds. After all, she's an adult now, right?"

[Varric]

"Not ever," Varric snaps heatedly.

[GamesMaster]

"Of course," says Maggie, still in that same soothing tone. "But you understand how the poor dear might be lonely, all by herself with only you?"

[Varric]

Varric stares at her for a moment. "No," he finally says bluntly. "People are shite. She's certainly never made any mention of wanting to be around more of them. Certainly not the ones in town."

[GamesMaster]

So it's accidental, then -- a grumpy old man too introverted to understand the human need for social contact. Maggie steeples her fingers, studying Varric. Sweet, innocent Mags would want to talk to the girl, ensure her safety. But I think I'll take a different tactic today. 

"It's probably for the best," she says, after a moment. "After all, with all the trouble with John... I'd hate to see her hurt, the poor duckie."