And it's the stars, the stars that lie to you.

[neverheardofhim]

[This week, Varric opted to take a page from Vanille’s book. Gathering everyone together after the roller-coaster that the first trial had been proved to be somewhat cathartic for himself. He hoped that it would prove to do the same for the others.]

[He wasn’t alone, of course, having found himself blessed with the most ragtag team of chefs and party-planners. He might have had words for and thoughts on Elda and Kimbley, Mikazuki was welcome company, and he wasn’t about to turn away potential allies, even in a fight as simple as cooking dinner.]

[Once everyone’s set to a task, baking a cake, brewing tea, or stirring stew (the only task Varric could think to assign Elda to), Varric excused himself to his room. His first task was writing up cards, each personally titled and signed by Varric.]

Food in the Library. 5 p.m. Don’t spend the night alone.

[Each note was slid under a door and accompanied by a single rap on the wood.]

[With his tasks completed, Varric returned to the kitchen to put out any potential fires and, with luck, set the food out. A table in the library would be adorned with plenty of tea, cake, pancakes courtesy of Viktor, and stew thanks mostly to Varric (sorry, Elda).]

Comments

[introspects]

Ah- [ She is not making this any better is she... WELL. At least she gets off of her chair and squats on the floor in front of him in an attempt to try to. Make up for what she said?! ]

I-I'm sure Vanille-chan meant it in a good way! You're always looking out for us, like a fatherly figure! That's--that's good, right?

[neverheardofhim]

[Her concern, admittedly, made him feel a little guilty. After a little more showmanship, he straightened up. A hand rested on her cheek, and he gave her a reassuring smile.]

Sure, sure. I get it, kid. And I appreciate it. [He patted her cheek twice, then lowered his hand once more.] And I'm happy to play that role. You're both... You're good kids.

[introspects]

[ Varric's hand is warm to the touch, fills her with something familial that she hasn't felt in a long time. She smiles again, genuinely, warmly. ]

I'm glad, Varric-san. [ She's still using '-san' subconsciously, but she's trying. ] Thank you for always looking out for us.

[neverheardofhim]

[It's enough of an improvement that Varric won't complain. Instead, he offered a smile, bordering on the sheepish. He was trying, at least, and for once his efforts were both paying off and not being criticized by someone.]

Just doing what I can. [He tilted his chin up.] Really, I should be thanking all of you. You're... you're a good bunch. Better than all this shit.