family matters

The possible consequences of Ruth’s escapades didn’t play much into his mind. He was well aware of it being a possibility, but so far, no-one had come along, brat in tow to confront him. There had been the lie that Nell had spun. One he’d believed to be her final attempt to lure him back into the clan and under his fathers influence again, but he’d ghosted Skyhold and any letter she sent after. There was nothing good to say to a woman sent by his father to play him for a lovesick fool. Before, he had been more carefree, now he was certainly colder and meaner for it.

He’d gotten distracted, though, and not by the pretty face before him. No, she was actually a timely intervention to get him back to the task at hand. He was technically on the clock and winning her aid would have him out of here sooner. A grin flashed, his head giving a brief nod as she appeared more willing in helping him find it. “Positive,” he’d lie smoothly. “I’m not even going to take it out of here. That’s perfectly acceptable, yes?”

He took a half-step back, gesturing deeper into the estate's library. “It would be very old, the cover made out of Halla hide. It’s supposedly from a Clan, one closely associated with the elvhen Goddess Sylaise.” Ruth shrugged, uncertain if that hunch held any truth to it. “It’s very likely your employer doesn’t understand it. Ancient elvhen isn’t commonly spoken now.”

He’d sigh, partially sad about the language, partially out of appealing to her more gentle nature. “I just want to copy it. For my people. I can sweeten it for you darlin’, for your help. Or even to narrow it down some.” He’d chuckle, “else I be distracted by another book.”