Stone's Throw

[Helene Dakesh]

"The relevant hormones also control bone density, so filtering them out of the bloodstream entirely is ill-advised."

[Varric]

Varric nods. "I was thinking on-the-spot filtration, at the near the artery into the brain itself but that's probably more complicated than it sounds. Which is already at 'not at all easy' levels."

[Helene Dakesh]

"Yes. However, it can be done, if that is your preference."

[Varric]

"What's your preference?" he returns. "It's your body after all."

[Helene Dakesh]

"You are my husband. You get some say as well."

[Varric]

"I can offer my opinion but it's your decision."

[Helene Dakesh]

"What I intend to do with my body depends heavily on what you are willing to allow in our marriage," ne counters. 

[Varric]

"I'm not in cha-- oh. You mean, what I'm willing to tolerate and remain married and the gradients leading up to that outcome," Varric realizes, frowning in thought. "Alright, same question then; if I wasn't in the picture-- or simply didn't care about the issue in any direction-- what would you choose?"

[Helene Dakesh]

"I would choose sexual intercouse. But I understand if that's too uncomfortable for you to tolerate."

[Varric]

"Uncomfortable, yes. But I don't... I don't think it's 'too uncomfortable.' It's hard to pin down though, too many unknowns." He taps his leg, one of his few tells of agitation. "Do you have any... details on that part yet?"

[Helene Dakesh]

"No. In truth only one person has ever admitted to being interested who was not... a pedophile. But... if possible.. I would like a merikos dwarf."

[Varric]

Varric's expressions shifts rapidly, glimpses of unease, surprise, pride and understanding all blending together with a few others. "I... see. Are you..." He clears his throat. "Are you likely for a... partner? Or just..." He gestures weakly with one hand. "A back-scratch, so to speak."

[Helene Dakesh]

"...I had expected this to only last long enough to produce a child."

[Varric]

"Okay, that's..." Varric hesitates again, then pushes himself to be open. "More comfortable. If it's not..." The tapping on his leg speeds up for a few seconds. "I can't... do this for you. Having... having it persist would be worse."

[Helene Dakesh]

"I know. And I remain in love with you. This is... something else."