da_champion | Dropbox

And you know I will eat anything.

[ He is unaware the shrug emoji exists otherwise one would be here. ] It's alright, I get the feeling my world has very different views than yours.

Yes, definitely more fun to watch! Like your movies but real.

For that, I'm grateful. I haven't poisoned you yet!

Yes, true. Though it's a sore topic for me, I'll admit.

[That makes him chuckle.] I'm happier when no one is actually getting maimed, but I suppose in a contest like that, they'd have volunteered so it's really their own doing.

And I hope that continues.

We don't have to talk about parents. We could talk about anything you'd like.

It can get you glory and riches. Some people walk out knighted or in service to a Lord or Lady. It can change a life in many ways.

[He's glad that Hawke isn't the type to pry, for once.]

So it's more than just for show, eh? That's fascinating. Reminds me of some traditions we had in more ancient civilisations on Earth, but anything like that in the modern world would be seen as inhumane.

Nowadays we play harmless games for prizes instead, I suppose.

[ He won't pry right now. Another time that could change. ]

It's rare but it does happen. I never attended one. I'd rather hang out at the Hanged Man than go to noble events.

What games do you like?

We clearly need to go to the pub more here.

Oh hmmm that's a good question! A lot of the games I play are usually achieved solo. Like puzzles and things. [Because he had no friends. But now he does!]

I've always thought charades looks fun with a big group. Where you have to act out a phrase or film title and your team has to figure out what you're doing without you speaking a word? Hilarious, really.

I go to some pub every night. You're always welcome to join me.

I like card games. We used to meet weekly for games of Wicked Grace. I'll teach you sometime. I have a deck of cards.

Your brother and Layla wouldn't be willing to play with us would they?

Oh yes! Of course, card games are fun, why didn't I think of that?

They'd be more than happy to, I'm sure. Especially since we've been spending more time together lately... they're getting nosy.

You thought of what you like. That's all.

I am going to keep spending time with you. We might as well spend time all together. Get your brother used to the idea that I'm not going anywhere.

Yes, I think he just needs a bit more time to get used to people wanting to get close to me. I know that sounds strange.

He's protective. It's not that strange. And in this place, there's reason to be even more protective.

You always seem so practical and understanding.

I lost a younger sibling. I understand.

Of course. I'm sure you'd be just as protective if she was here.

Maker's breath, she could show up couldn't she? She could be here.

Oh.

I... I don't know what I'd do. Cry, obviously. I don't know how I'd let her out of my sight.

[Oh no!! He didn't mean to put that thought in Hawke's brain.]

It would be difficult for sure, I can only imagine...

but I wouldn't fret about it, love. that sort of thing is out of our control, isn't it? if she did show up, you'd do your very best to make up for all those lost years, I'm sure.

I would love to see her too. You're right. I'd love to see what she could have, should have, become.

I'd just be as a protective as your brother is of you.