fragile minds

He was quiet, as she mentioned how lucky his partner was to have him. It was... strange, to hear such a phrase. Especially when many restless nights stemmed from the fact he couldn't let go of the past; of what a spirit possessing Carasson had done. And he knew the other man hadn't forgiven himself either. He hated it, not being able to forgive. He hated that neither of them could forget.

But he loved Carasson... and he'd not stop trying to make their relationship work until they'd done everything possible. It wasn't that Chip and Cara didn't love one another; rather, they were both so in love that it hurt to be around the other. To remember the things they'd done to survive. Much like Shaeran had been saying; survival shouldn't require another's destruction.

But he knew from experience.

Sometimes it was you or them.

Her next statements were about the loss of their clan. Another thing he couldn't forgive or forget. Her fingers twine through his, and he squeezed her hand in return. Tevinter will have to go through me, if they come. He murmured. And he trusted that Cara, no matter what happened between them, would follow his lead.

I'm going to take you to the Dread Wolf. A fearsome name throughout Dalish mythology; though Chip had recently learned the truth about the man. He'll be able to help us. He squeezed her hand tighter, You'll be protected under Arlathan's code of conduct. Elves are welcome, regardless of their history. It's its own nation, now. He didn't know if Arlathan would welcome the woman before him, given the change of power... But he knew the old Keeper would have. And the Dread Wolf would help them, regardless.