Ghost Story

[Varric]

"Depends a lot on who the people checking in are, doesn't it? What they want, what they're looking for, why they're doing."

[GamesMaster]

"I just want the young ones to be safe," protests Rhea. "Surely you don't mistrust me? After all we've been through?"

[Varric]

"Not just about trust. I don't think you meant harm, but you did cause it," Varric says, tone not unkind. "Just as I did, when I tried to help you. Most of the extra trouble came down on me, not you, but not all of it."

[GamesMaster]

"Now how did I do that? Sure, she was a little angry, but harm?"

[Varric]

"She had a near panic attack," Varric says bluntly. "And humiliated her, which didn't help her rather fragile self-confidence. Like I said, you meant well. I get it. But so does John."

[GamesMaster]

"If speaking to someone in private is humiliating, the girl is too sensitive," says Rhea bluntly. "I did what I could to protect her reputation. You're asking me not to act when I suspect a child is being abused. I'm not that person, and I never will be. If you want that kind of person around you, go back to Nyra."

[Varric]

"It's not the speaking to her that was the problem, it was bringing in someone else." Varric shakes his head. "Rubble down a hole, doesn't matter. Child abuse is a serious thing, I just wish you'd gone about it differently. Anyway. Thank you for bringing up the supplies."

[GamesMaster]

"It was my pleasure. Emma or no Emma, I won't forget what you did for my boy," she says, firmly. "I  just wish you focused half as much on making friends as you do on being offended."

[Varric]

Varric gives her a amused look. "You wouldn't be offended by an accusation of sexual abuse?" Please open. He winces suddenly, expression shifting to an apologetic half smile. "Sorry, I shouldn't keep forcing the issue. I--" He visibly debates with himself, then admits, "I've not been good company since my Helene died."

[GamesMaster]

Rhea's face softens, and she nods. "I know that feeling. It's been seven years since my Marcus passed, and I still miss him every day."

[Varric]

"Emma is the first person I've let get close and I guess I'm-- hah. I know I'm very fucking protective of my Clan," he says ruefully, but unapologetically.

[GamesMaster]

Rhea nods. "You know she has a crush on you, right?"

[Varric]

That gets a shudder. "Regrettably yes. Had, hopefully, or at least heading that way after a truly uncomfortable talk."

[GamesMaster]

"Good," says Rhea bluntly. "You can't let that sort of thing develop. It's unhealthy. She needs to set her sights on someone more her own age."

[Varric]

"Or not, if that's her preference. Just not me," he mutters. "She's not looking to date right now anyway."