Imprints in Stone [AU]

[Bethany]

"...wasn't that story about the lost hunter you loved when were kids that had a mabari in it? The one he found as a pup with the... goblins, in the soup pot? And then the dog- mabari..." She frowns, not able to remember exactly what happened. Some kind of monster attacked?

[Carver Amell]

Carver shakes his head. "Mabari are, are Uryll's gift to humans. Famously brave, clever, and loyal companions. They bond with humans -- only humans and Merikos -- and mold themselves to be the perfect tool and friend." 

[Helene Dakesh]

"This is... accurate, if poetic."

[Varric]

"Huh. Figured they were dire cross breeds or something," Varric says with a soft laugh. "How... I mean, any idea on how dangerous she is? I feel bad she got hurt and all, but..." He gestures at the two teens.

[Helene Dakesh]

"It is unlikely she is bonded, so therefore, she is no more dangerous than a dire wolf."

[Varric]

No more dangerous than a dire wolf (that's plenty dangers to have around the house)?

"Bonded? Like a familiar?"

Way to focus on the not important (dangerous) part, Beth.

"Oh that's great! I hope she has at least one boy and girl pup. Littermates are like twins, it would be great if we could each bond one of the opposite gender. Wouldn't it Carver?"

Wait, what?

Bethany steps forward and kneels to hug the stunned dwarf tightly, beaming at him. "You're the best dad!" she beams at him, eyes wide and innocently thrilled.

"Umm... welcome?" Varric mumbles, eyes seeking out Carver's, a silent 'what just happened' clearly displayed.

[Carver Amell]

Carver's face softens, a sappy smile spreading across his face. Puppies. I get a puppy!

[Varric]

Betrayed and abandoned, Varric's eyes seek out Helene's.

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene, seeing him turn to them, gives a short nod. "The puppies should be considerably less dangerous when they are weaned."

[Varric]

"That's..." Not at all what I wanted to hear (you to say). "...good to know. Great even," he says weakly. "How... how far along? Rather, when will she..." he trails off.

[Helene Dakesh]

"The precise timing is uncertain, but it is likely to happen approximately a week from now, perhaps a little more or less. This one can ask for more precise timing if Mister Tethras wishes."

[Bethany]

"Oh, that soon! Carver, we should- we need to get bedding and dishes and- and toys," Bethany babbles with excitement. "Do you think it's too late to go out tonight?" It's after dark, nearly nine bell.

[Carver Amell]

"Yes," he says firmly, thinking of Niko. "But first thing tomorrow, okay? I'm sure we can beg off lessons."

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene, startled, looks to Varric.

[Varric]

"How about..." Ah yes, the sweet taste of revenge. Sorta. "How about Helene goes with you? They know the most about animals and... mabari, they can turn it into a walking lesson about how to care for the dogs we're evidently getting."