The Winter's Queen [Magus AU]

[Helene Dakesh]

"Woe, woe betide," they say, their voice distant. "Beware, all ye who enter." or something like that.

[NPCs]

The Lieferung leans over Helene's shoulder. "I hope you didn't just ask how we're going to fare," he says in a dry, weathered voice.

[Helene Dakesh]

"Just-- just this one." They scoop up the bones, beginning to shake them again. Good point. "Should this one's... companions continue on without this one?" they ask, casting once more. 

The bones lay out on the cobbles, all of them face up: half skulls, half infinities. It takes a moment for Helene to see what else they say: there's one more infinity sign than skull. They count them, frowning. Eleven bones. I only keep ten in this bag. 

[Tethras Clan]

"... were there not ten bones on your previous cast?" Zevran asks carefully.

[NPCs]

"Looks like you're heading back, tiny one," the orc grunts, moving off. "Interesting to note we're being Watched though..."

[Helene Dakesh]

"Alydra always watches this one," Helene says, their voice small and filled with awe. "This one will return to Lelldorin's." 

[Tethras Clan]

Zevran kneels to gather up the knucklebones, then offers them to Helene. "Look after Isabela for me?" he asks, voice tight.

[Helene Dakesh]

"Of course. Please stay safe." Helene tucks the bones into their bag, then gives a deep bow. 

[Tethras Clan]

"Nope," Zevran says, popping the 'p' jauntily. He spreads his arms out for a hug.

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene looks at him, frowning slightly. "What?"

[Tethras Clan]

"...hug? I'm offering a hug," Zevran says, slightly taken aback.

[Helene Dakesh]

"Oh." Helene moves forward, wrapping their arms stiffly around Zevran. "But why not staying safe?" 

[Tethras Clan]

"What? Oh, no, that 'nope' was to the bow. Given yesterday, a bow is too impersonal," Zevran explains as he gently pulls them into a hug. "Are you... not comfortable with hugs?"

[Helene Dakesh]

"This one is... unused to physical contact," they say after a moment. Still, they seem to relax a little. "Th-- I apologize for misunderstanding." 

[Tethras Clan]

"No offense was taken," Zevran assures them. "That's a shame though. You should look into getting a mabari at least. Touch is very important for people's well being."