Imprints in Stone [AU]

[Varric]

"Because being deliberately misleading with insufficiently accurate words would be lying," Varric fills in. "You said noises- does noise- is quiet and stillness better for you during a fit? Stillness around you, I mean, not of yourself."

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene gives a small nod. 

[Varric]

"Is there anything else that can help? Physical touch, lack of same? Soft music, scents... warmth- like a blanket?"

[Helene Dakesh]

They shake their head again. "Calm. Quiet. Presence without pressure."

[Varric]

"That I can do," Varric says with clear relief. Just having some kind of plan, even a very barebones ones, seems to put him a great deal more at ease. "If you- if you're ever nearby and need it, you can come over and just... be in my office with me. Just, uh, clap once or... we can come up a signal of some kind that you can do when you're... having an episode, to let me know right off you're just there for quiet. How about food or drink?"

[Helene Dakesh]

They shake their head. "This one is-- it is-- this one is worried that Mr Tethras will be... will see this one as-- will see this one for what this one is, and reject this one."

[Varric]

Varric frowns, looking slightly offended. "I'm not the sort that'll reject someone because of a medical condition. That's... distasteful. Very much so. Particularly one that's a result of your creation, not a lifestyle or choice. None of this is your fault."

[Helene Dakesh]

"This one is unfit to teach Mr Tethras' son."

[Varric]

"Sure you are. Might not be the best at it, sure, but you're not a teacher by vocation. And I trust you, so that's means a lot," Varric counters.

[Helene Dakesh]

"This one has... this one has done harm," they whisper, ashamed. "This one hurt Mr Tethras' son on accident."

[Varric]

Varric gestures for them to continue, to explain.

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene shakes their head. "This one mentioned... this one was careless with words and let him know about his..."

[Varric]

"...ah, you mentioned his learning disability," Varric realizes, wincing a touch. "I've... broached the topic, somewhat, but... yeah. He can be a bit defensive."

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene nods. "He seemed... crushed."

[Varric]

"He's got some significant self-doubt issues, yeah. Did you see where he went?"