OPEN | We're all told to dance but we never pick the tune

[pinprick]

WHO: Nathaniel Howe and YOU
WHAT: Open log
WHEN: Wintermarch and Guardian
WHERE: The Kestrel House & Camp Shady
NOTES: Reading aloud of bad smutty romance novel.

Camp Shady

It's proper winter, which is aggravating the crap out of Nathaniel's rheumatism. On good days, he can practice with weapons. On bad days, he is wrapped up in layers of blankets and writing or drawing with a grimace on his face. Every day he reads reports from Warden scouts, scouring the world for signs of the Architect. Most leads become dead ends.

The Kestrel House

On one truly abysmal day, Nathaniel doesn't get out of bed. Every movement creates agony. He stays in the barracks wing with curtains drawn around the bed he and Anders share, sometimes rolling out to make tea at the fire. He is very pale to anyone who sees him, but makes no sound or complaint.

Closed to Anders

At the end of one of the bad days, Anders arrives back at the Kestrel House to find Nathaniel inside, working on a drawing. He glances up and gestures for him to come closer.

"I've something to show you."

Comments

[pinprick]

Nathaniel is up in Skyhold today running an errand, but he makes a stop in the tavern to warm up before heading back down. He gives a silver to the bartender, who gives him something strong in exchange. He downs it quickly.

[bloodredcrow]

Natasha knows the face, knows the name, but hasn't yet actually met the man. A part of her wants to get up, strike up a conversation, do a little digging. A much larger part of her is focused on how very warm and toasty she is, how the heat that's suffused her boots is possibly the most blissful thing she's felt since she got to Skyhold.

She's got a good straight line of sight, though. She can watch him until he leaves or does something interesting, and she's so comfortable she doesn't even try to be subtle about it.