Blood from Stone [AU]

[Helene Dakesh]

"There is a place this one frequents that sells green tea -- which is to say, tea which has not been exposed to an oxidizing process and therefore retains fresher, more herbal notes -- along with small cakes of a sort common in Toukami. It is quite lovely for the afternoon."

[NPCs]

The frown deepens, then a sharp nod. "Very well. I am dubious about the experience but one cannot know without testing. If naught else, I suspect they would have some form of fruit juice or the like, correct?"

[Helene Dakesh]

"Of course."

Before long, they find themselves seated on cushions on the floor at a low wooden table, an iron teapot and small glazed iron cups, pre-warmed, before them. Helene demonstrates how to clean one's hands with the provided warm towel, then pours for each of them.

[NPCs]

Despite a somewhat reserved demeanor, Aidseant Dunswithe seems pleased enough so far at least. "Decorum, ceremony and a sense of solemn gravity. Regardless of the drink itself, I must commend you on your taste in regards to the process. Such things are highly respected in Orzammar. 

[Helene Dakesh]

"This one has never had the pleasure of visiting. It is one reason this one looks forward to reading the gift this one was given."

[NPCs]

"I strongly recommend that you do. Having such a foundation of understand will serve you well when you-" Before he continues, the server arrives with a small tray of snacks. Pausing, the dwarf studies them carefully. "And these are..?

[Helene Dakesh]

"The green are soybeans, a type of plant that is a staple of Toukami cuisine, and the brown are flakes of dried fish, which can be mixed into the bowl of rice to your taste," ne offers. "When this one?"

[NPCs]

"I see..." He murmurs, adding a small bit of the soy and a great deal more of the dried fish. "Come to Orzammar. It is also good to act in harmony with your surroundings, especially the people and their culture."

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene blinks. "This one was unaware this one had been invited to Orzimmar. This one had understood that outsiders were seldom welcome, especially non-Dwarves."

[NPCs]

Aidseant Dunswithe pauses, the lip of his mug just at his mouth. Frowning, he lowers it slightly. "That is... unexpected." His tone is slow, almost wary, in that way people can sound when they realize they have brought up a subject they were perhaps not expected or desired to do. "You have not... discussed this with your husband?"

[Helene Dakesh]

"Ah," says Helene, faintly relieved. Varric was supposed to invite me. "This one has not seen this one's husband since the ball."

[NPCs]

"The ball yesterday?" His expression goes puzzled. "Why would that matter? Oh. I... see." He clears his throat. "I... perhaps we should speak of another subject?"

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene blinks. "Was my husband not to convey some invitation? This one has been seeing less of him of of late, perhaps it was merely forgotten?"

[NPCs]

Aidseant Dunswithe studies nem for a long moment, then finally takes a sip of tea. Pauses. Takes another sip. "...curious taste. Not entirely unpleasant." He sets the teacup down, then sighs. "Seeker Helene... I am afraid I must explain that I have been here, in negotiations with Light zi'Tethras, for nearly six  months now.

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene blinks, confused as to what to say in response. "So long?" ne finally settles on, erring on the side of interaction that would feel comfortable for a short-lives like nir children.