The Amell Legacy: Transgressions

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene shakes her head. "Most with this condition are institutionalized. Failing to treat the condition int he past has lead to... dysfunction." She shudders, then, clearly remembering some horror. "Treating the condition works. What was given to Varric about this one's future?" 

The topic shift is abrupt, and the tone doesn't change from a polite, soft-spoken plea.

[Varric]

Varric tilts his head to the side. ''Given that this is coming through the Ancient's zen-filter, take it with a grain of salt. But they said...'' He hums softly for a moment. ''That if you were still physically present, ah, today actually, then 'the Seeker would Seek no more.' I should also not they used the word 'imprisoned' to refer to our being there, specifically. And called the place 'uncaring.' So. Maybe you should at least consider that the place might not be the best idea?''

[Helene Dakesh]

The Seeker would Seek no more.

Helene begins to rock, back and forth, their whole body moving as they shift their weight from the balls of their feet to the heels, rather than bending at the waist. They keep their hands still, mouth silent, as they try to get a hold of themself. This one must serve Alydra. There is nothing for this one but Alydra. What could cause this one to turn from Alydra's service? Nothing. Nothing.

A small mewling sound slips from her lips.

[Marian Hawke]

Marian moves forward, gently wrapping an arm around Helene. "Hey, it's alright..."

The Samsaran stiffens, ceasing to rock, holding her breath as she freezes in place.

[Haliel Lightsong]

Lightsong moves after Marian. No contact, keep some space. Soft voice, very- oh Marian, no. Reaching out, she takes Marian's arm and shakes her head. ''Give her space, Miss Marian. Seeker? It's okay. You are safe and at home. I will protect you with my life. It's okay. All will be well. Miss Marian would never hurt you either.''

[Marian Hawke]

Marian lets go, a hint of hurt flashing across her face, quickly buried. She steps back, letting Lightsong take the lead.

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene begins breathing again as she is released, closing her eyes, still holding very still.

[Haliel Lightsong]

''When assisting with someone having a panic attack, shock, or any other emotional kind of issue- even just fear- give them space and don't touch them. Unless you've worked out previously that they want and welcome touch during such episodes or they are in clear and immediate need in order to prevent injury to themselves of another,'' Lightsong says softly, half explaining to Marian, half just wanting something to say in a soft, steady tone.

[Varric]

''You want to step into your room and take a few minutes Seeker?'' Varric asks, not having moving an inch. But watching. Watching carefully.

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene swallows, taking a step back, then another.

She takes a deep breath, shivering. "No," she whispers, then flinches. "I-- I mean--"

[Haliel Lightsong]

''It's okay, Seeker Helene. You can or not, it's up to you.'' Lightsong offers a warm smile.

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene gives a small whine, eyes fixed on the floor.

[Varric]

''We're not there anymore, Seeker. No-one here is going to hit you for saying 'no' to something.'' Varric sneers a little. ''Nice, yeah? They would slap you for saying no to just about anything. Even stuff like 'you gonna to make more trouble' would get a slap if you said no. Supposed to just apologize and beg.''

[Helene Dakesh]

"Politeness costs little and can be crucial," Helene whispers. 

[Varric]

''So slapping people is polite? Is normal?'' Varric scoffs loudly. ''No. I'm sure some of the people there think they're helping but they aren't. Not really. Might be getting lucky and helping some people, a little but how the fuck is using torture magic supposed to make someone a better person?''