Tales of a Child Eternal [NSFW]

[Helene Dakesh]

"Understood," they say, and there's a hint of relief, forgiveness, under their tightly controlled tone. "This one has long viewed Draslina as the forge in which this one was hardened, the glaze baked on. This one has a lot to think about."

[Tethras Clan]

Varric is frowning slightly, then suddenly straights. "Flexibility- not in Helene but in us. Or rather, in the people around them." The Elder turns slightly to look at Varric, expression faintly curious. "Helene isn't the building, they're the occupants. The building is the people around them."

[NPCs]

No... but that seems to lead to the right conclusion so now yes. "This one is pleased you seem to have found some meaning in my words. May you never stop seeking more."

[Helene Dakesh]

"Those in Draslina imposed rigid standards," they say, comprehension dawning. "the Clan is flexible. This one... could find relief if this one were willing to impose more of their burden onto their close friends and lovers."

[Tethras Clan]

"And if we... learned to sway with your quirks and needs instead of forcing you to rigidly adhere to our... norms," Varric continues.

[NPCs]

"It is very common that advice to another is advice the giver should heed as well," the Elder puts in, studying Varric closely.

[Tethras Clan]

"Huh?"

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene turns to Varric as well. "This one did not know how to help when Beinn Varric was upset. But this one fetched whiskey and sat, and listened, and did their best to support Beinn Varric. This one behaved toward their friend as their friend often behaves toward them: with understanding and comfort, but not expectation."

[Tethras Clan]

"Yes, that... helps," Varric says slowly. "Is that... not a good approach with you?" he asks tentatively.

[Helene Dakesh]

"It is," they confirm. "This one suspects that... Beinn Varric and Seeker Helene can best aid each other by treating with each other in this manner. The giver of advice, Beinn Varric, and the recipient, Seeker Helene, both benefit."

[NPCs]

It's a seed, the Elder decides. Give it time to flower. "Well spoken."

[Tethras Clan]

"...right. Alright. So... so we can't know about why, but we got some ideas on what to do about it," Varric says after clearing his throat. 

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene nods. "Is there anything that thou wish to advise upon at this time? Anything that this un--- that this worthy one is forgetting to ask?"

[NPCs]

"My business is concluded and I must depart," the Elder says with faint sadness in their tone. They rise, then pauses. "Well. One question." A faint, almost playful smile appears for an instant. "As... custom, if nothing else. What do you wish of your life?"

[Helene Dakesh]

"To serve Alydra, and to serve the Clan." Hey, that last part's new.