Tales of a Child Eternal [NSFW]

[Tethras Clan]

Varric squeezes back and makes a mental note to offer his hand earlier next time. Without any change in tone, he switches seamlessly to a running commentary on his work of late. Still unemotional stuff, but more personal.

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene glances toward the door, a guilty expression crossing their face. They release Varric's hand, shivering a little. 

[Tethras Clan]

"You want a blanket?" Varric asks, voice still low and soft.

[Helene Dakesh]

They shake their head, one hand going to absently twist around their finger -- the finger that was replaced.

[Tethras Clan]

"Yeah," Varric says quietly. "That was... some pretty spectacularly bad timing."

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene shudders, flinching slightly. Then, methodically, they begin smacking their fist against their thigh. 

[Tethras Clan]

"Take your time Helene," Varric says softly. "Chili tastes better the longer it simmers."

[Helene Dakesh]

They shake their head again, stronger, more insistent, as the blows get harsher. 

[Tethras Clan]

"It really does, the flavor ripens, deepens," Varric counters, thumb stroking their hand in gentle, repetitive motions.

[Helene Dakesh]

They shudder again, something like a sob catching in their throat. Over the next few minutes, however, they calm again, unballing their fist into a flat hand and smoothing down the sore spot gently. 

[Tethras Clan]

"There we go," Varric says when it looks like Helene is mostly settled. "Feel better after a good venting?"

[Helene Dakesh]

They hesitate, a flush coming to their blue cheeks, before nodding, a small, tentative nod. 

[Tethras Clan]

"Good," Varric says simply. "I'm sorry you needed it but I'm glad you let yourself have it."

[Helene Dakesh]

They nod again, taking a deep breath. "...sorry," they whisper, struggling for a moment to find the word once more.

[Tethras Clan]

"No debts," Varric replies, patting their joined hands.