Varric Tethras/Dialogue (Dragon Age II)

Varric Tethras' dialogue contains a list of conversations he has with his companions.

Varric's remarks
(upon entering the Hanged Man for the first time)
 * Talkative man: That man over there. He's been staring at me for an entire hour. I counted.
 * Varric: Maybe he likes you.
 * Talkative man: No. He knows. He knows that I know. But what he does not know is that I know that he knows that I know.
 * Varric: How do you know that he doesn't know that you know that he knows that you know, you know?
 * Talkative man: What?
 * Varric: Exactly.


 * Freelance prostitute outside the Blooming Rose: Varric! I haven't seen you in ages! When are you going to introduce me to more of your friends?


 * (Entering The Blooming Rose) "Madame Lusine runs this place for Harlan. Or with him. Or on him. It's a Coterie thing."
 * (Entering Hightown market) "I spend way too much time here."
 * (Approaching the Viscount's Keep) "You can't miss the Keep. It practically screams, 'Nothing fun ever happens here!'"
 * (In front of the chantry) "I like the chantry. This is the only place in Hightown where the Merchants Guild won't come looking for me."
 * (Entering Hightown estates) "Stay out of the shadows. There are a hundred times more cutpurses here than in Lowtown."
 * (Entering Lowtown bazaar) "The Merchants Guild has their fingers in all these pies. Well, not the actual pies. They're clean as far as I know."
 * (Approaching the Hanged Man) "My favorite spot in the whole city. The taverns in Hightown are all owned by the Merchants Guild."
 * (Entering Lowtown's foundry district) "Oh, right, the rusty metal spike district! My favorite part of town! Can we leave now?"
 * (Approaching Gamlen's House) "No offense to your uncle, but this house smells like really old cabbage."
 * (Entering the elven alienage) "The elves who don't live here actually have it worse. I'd hate to be an elf in Darktown."
 * (Arriving at the Docks) "Can we skip the Gallows? I've had my oppression for the day, thanks."
 * (Entering Darktown's abandoned mining tunnels) "Can I suggest that we never come here again?"
 * (Passing by the Wounded Coast lookout point) "Water. Pretty exciting, I know."
 * (Entering the Bone Pit) "Hubert's miners must be a desperate lot to work here."

Combat comments
Before a fight:
 * Grab something sharp and pointy! We've got company!
 * Looks like trouble's coming!
 * Bianca, baby, introduce yourself!
 * Bianca's locked and loaded!
 * Last one to strike, buys the drinks!
 * Ah, please, Bianca can handle this herself!
 * Line them up for me, I'll take them down!
 * I'll make this quick!
 * Bianca's ready and willing.
 * Let's do this!
 * Never fear, Varric is here!
 * How many people do you have on your tail?
 * We've got more on the way!
 * Friends everywhere. Lovely.
 * Looks like we missed a few.
 * Oh, look, they've brought their friends!
 * More? You're not exactly the most popular person in town.
 * More of them, great! I was starting to get lonely!
 * Why is it nobody ever seems happy to see us?

During a fight:
 * Watch out for the big guy!
 * Anyone feel like jumping in on this?
 * Alright, I might be out of my league here.
 * We're in trouble here!
 * Somebody wanna give me a hand with this?
 * I'm good, but I'm not that good.
 * You don't want me to aim for something -I don't know- less impossible?
 * That's a bit far, don't you think?
 * All in, over here!
 * I'll take you all!
 * You wanna piece of me?!
 * (laughs) Let's dance you sons of bitches!
 * Dance with me, precious, I'll show you a thing or two!
 * You'll have to be faster than that!
 * Can we wrap this up, sooner rather than later?
 * Come here and give Bianca a kiss!
 * I could do this in my sleep!
 * Bianca's getting lonely!
 * Is that all you got?!
 * Come here, you bastard!
 * Keep your guard up! These guys play dirty!
 * They're sneaking around behind us!

Kills an enemy:
 * Not the brightest thing you could've done!
 * When's the fighting start? Bianca's starting to get bored!
 * Another one for me! How many have you got, Hawke?!
 * That's enough out of you!
 * Somebody order a shot in the face?!
 * Bianca, you minx! That was beautiful!
 * That was a beauty of a shot!
 * Better luck in the next life!
 * Piece of cake!
 * One more for the dwarf!

After a fight:
 * I think Bianca's gotten scratched.
 * I'm getting too old for this shit.
 * Maker's breath, Hawke. You do get results, don't you?
 * I'll just call that bunch 'enemies' and footnote it later.
 * Nice work.
 * Ugh, I think I got blood on my coat.
 * Nobody wander off!
 * There's a lesson to be learnt here. Messing with us is suicidal.
 * Ah, I didn't even get their names that time.
 * Remind me never to get on our bad side. Seems to be... unhealthy.

No effect:
 * Bianca's not doing much here!
 * Nothing I'm doing seems to work!

Recovering from KO:
 * Dear Varric, please learn to parry. Your innards. Ouch.
 * I knew I wasn't dead, there'd be more women around!
 * Blast, I got hit worse than I thought.
 * I'm fine. Where's Bianca?
 * Just give me a second here!
 * Bianca, you okay? Oh, I'm sorry, baby!
 * Let's... not do that again. I'm not ready to meet my ancestors.
 * That could've gone better.
 * I'll try to repay you by not doing that again, deal?
 * Thanks! That was a little too close for my taste.
 * Thanks! I'm not ready to go just yet.
 * I'm too good looking to die this young.

About to KO:
 * I'm not going to make it!
 * This isn't going so well!
 * Much more of this and all I'll be able to do is bullshit them!
 * I- I think I need a rescue here!
 * First person to help me out here is my new best friend!

Low on stamina:
 * Ah, I think my arm is going to fall off!

Someone else KO'd:
 * (If Hawke falls) Hawke, hang in there! I'll get you out of here!
 * (If Hawke falls) Damn you, Hawke! You can't die on me yet!
 * (If Hawke falls) Void, take us all! Hawke is down!
 * (If Anders falls) They got what's-his-name! The mage!
 * (If Aveline falls) Holy mother of green cheeses! How'd they take that woman down?
 * (If Bethany falls) Hold on, Sunshine, I'm coming!
 * (If Carver falls) Hang on, Junior, help's on the way!
 * (If Fenris falls) The tame elf is down!
 * (If Isabela falls) Don't die on me Rivaini, you still owe me a pint!
 * (If Merrill falls) Blast it! Daisy got herself knocked out!
 * We're losing people!

Taking a potion:
 * Does this stuff have side-effects?
 * Hope this works!
 * Just give me a second here.

Stuck:
 * I'm -uh- I'm stuck!
 * Sodding-! I can't move!

Trap:
 * Everyone stay still and try not to make any loud noises.
 * Someone's left a surprise here for us.
 * Oh, for the love of-! These are my new boots!
 * Now that's just rude. What are they trying to do? Ruin my boots.
 * Not likely.
 * You want me to do what? Uh- I don't think so.
 * You know, I might be able to give you a hand with that.
 * Want me to take a look at that?
 * I love doing that.
 * Easy as pie.

Location comments
Act 1
 * (Lowtown, day) Despite the name, Lowtown's not so bad. Just... more likely to be destroyed by tidal waves than Hightown.
 * (Lowtown, night) A lot of people are afraid to come here at night. I don't know why. The thieves will still shoot you in daylight.
 * (Hightown, day) Ah, Hightown. Where the rich go to piss their money away. This really is the best place in Kirkwall.
 * (Hightown, day) Keep a hand on your coin, Hawke. There are more cutpurses in Hightown than in rest of the city combined.
 * (Hightown, night) It's pretty here at night. Once the nobles are out of the way, you can really admire the scenery.
 * (The Docks, day) Bartrand likes to make me deal with the harbormaster. That man always smells like cod liver oil.
 * (The Docks, night) Have I mentioned that dwarves are lousy swimmers? Just... keep that in mind before you talk to any drunk sailors.
 * (Darktown) You know what I love about the Undercity? Absolutely nothing.
 * (The Hanged Man) If you try any of the beer nuts, make sure they aren't moving first.
 * (The Hanged Man) Want a drink? I'll put it on my tab.
 * (The Hanged Man) This is the best place to listen to gossip in Kirkwall.
 * (The Blooming Rose) This place reminds me way too much of the Merchants Guild.
 * (The Viscount's Keep) I don't know what the ancient Tevinters used this place for, but I bet it wasn't "making people feel at home".
 * (The Chantry) I've always kind of liked this place. It's like a building full of sweet old grandmothers.
 * (Sundermount) Oh hey, nature. I've heard about this. Thought it was just a rumor.
 * (The Wounded Coast) This is, beyond a doubt, the most wretched place I've ever been. The sooner we get back to Kirkwall, the better.
 * (The Bone Pit) I've lived all my life in Kirkwall, and until now, I've managed to avoid coming here. Wish I'd kept that up.
 * (The Deep Roads) I will not be sorry to see daylight again.
 * (The Deep Roads) I am getting truly sick of looking at stalagmites. Or are they stalactites? Shit, I don't know.
 * (The Deep Roads) Andraste's ass, dwarves actually live down here? On purpose? What in blazes for?

Act 2
 * (Lowtown, night) You know who I don't want to meet in a Lowtown alley at night? Pretty much anyone.
 * (Hightown, day) Don't make eye contact with dwarf merchants here. I've skipped the last five guild meetings.
 * (Hightown, night) I've heard the nobles grousing about the commoners moving up. Congratulation, Hawke! You ruined the neighborhood!
 * (The Docks, day) What is this smell? Why does this place always smell?
 * (The Docks, night) This place rivals the Undercity for "worst part of Kirkwall".
 * (Darktown) This is some of the most expensive real estate in Kirkwall. Usually paid for in body parts.
 * (The Hanged Man) If you want a drink, order it from Corff. In three years, Norah has never gotten my order right.
 * (The Hanged Man) This is the best tavern in Kirkwall. It could use some cute dwarven serving girls, but otherwise, it's perfect.
 * (The Viscount Keep) How many servants do you think it takes to clean rafters in this place?
 * (The Chantry) You know, I think the Chant of Light would be more popular if it had more battles in it. Just a hunch.
 * (Sundermount) You know, this outdoors thing is growing on me. Like a tumor.
 * (The Bone Pit) This place gives me the creeps. It's probably the name. They should call it "the pie fields". Everyone likes pie.

Act 3
 * (Lowtown, day) I got used to this placed being filled with oxmen. It's strange not seeing them around.
 * (Lowtown, night) What is this smell? I think someone's murdered an elf in the alley. Watch your step.
 * (Hightown, night) All the most interesting things in Kirkwall happen in Hightown after dark. True story.
 * (The Docks, day) Great, it reminds me that I have five shipping manifests to look over when I get home.
 * (The Docks, night) I don't care what people say, the sound of waves is not soothing.
 * (Darktown) And this is still the rankiest pit in Thedas. Never changes.
 * (The Hanged Man) If you want to see something funny, flirt with Edwina. Go on, I dare you.
 * (The Hanged Man) My palatial suite in the Hanged Man is your palatial suite, Hawke. Make yourself at home.
 * (The Hanged Man) Did I pay my tab this month? Ah, I'll sort it out later.
 * (The Viscount Keep) After what happened here, I can't imagine anyone's eager to move into the viscount palace.
 * (The Chantry) The grand cleric reminds me of my mother. A really tall version of Mother. With a nicer hat.
 * (The Wounded Coast) We're surrounded by nothing for as the eye can see. Why do we keep coming here?

Varric and Hawke
(At the beginning of the quest Repentance)
 * Sebastian: I-- Hawke! We were just talking about you.
 * Hawke: Carry on. I love to eavesdrop.
 * Varric: "Hawke said sarcastically."

(If the aggressive option was chosen) (If the diplomatic option was chosen)
 * Varric: "Hawke said aggressively."
 * Hawke: "Saying good things, I hope?"
 * Varric: "Hawke asked diplomatically."


 * Hawke: You know I hate it when you do that.
 * Varric: "Hawke muttered in an angry aside to the dwarf..."

(Inside the Hawke Estate, must have Dog)
 * Varric: You know, you play diamondback better than my cousin Vidar. (To Dog)
 * Varric: You wag your tail whenever you have a good hand, though. Might want to watch that.
 * Dog: (Barks)
 * Hawke: Is it brilliant or horrible that you play diamondback with my dog? (humorous) / It's a short tail. I'm sure nobody notices. (diplomatic) / He doesn't take well to having his flaws pointed out. (aggressive)
 * Varric: All I'm saying is, he'd be up more than two sovereigns if he watched his tells.
 * Varric: My Uncle Emmet has a whole pack of rat terriers who play every week.
 * Varric: They're a cutthroat bunch. You've got a long way to go to be their quality.
 * Dog: (Growls)
 * Varric: Now don't take it bad—you're still better than Anders.
 * Dog: (Happy bark!)
 * Varric: Coming to the Hanged Man later?
 * Dog: (Barks)

Varric and Aveline



 * Aveline: Varric, do you do anything?
 * Varric: Am I the next stop in your career evaluations? Joy of joys.
 * Aveline: You watch and you talk. Is that it?
 * Varric: You are dismissing hallmarks of both the utterly ineffectual and the incredibly dangerous.
 * Aveline: I don't know what you mean.
 * Varric: It means coins flow when I talk and when I shut up. Like if you got paid to guard or unguard.
 * Aveline: That makes no sense.
 * Varric: Good.


 * Aveline: Maybe I should put you to use Varric. Have you pen some warnings for the lawless.
 * Varric: Who's that for? Are most criminals big readers? Seems like pacifying the nobles.
 * Aveline: Pictures then. It was just a suggestion.
 * Varric: Well how about a giant sign that just says "Don't." You could hit people with it.
 * Aveline: Thank you, I get the point.


 * Varric: A Fereldan in the guard. What will they think of next?
 * Aveline: You have a problem with that?
 * Varric: Me? My family's not native either. I'm just surprised. Lots of old prejudice in the guard.
 * Aveline: I'll give them plenty of reason to change their minds.
 * Varric: You know, it's possible they're just scared shitless of you. That's my theory, anyway.


 * Varric: So what do you do, Aveline?
 * Aveline: You know I'm a guard, why are you asking?
 * Varric: I mean in your off-duty hours. For fun. You've heard of it, I hope?
 * Aveline: These are my off-duty hours.
 * Varric: And the trend of you scaring the piss out of me continues.


 * Aveline: Blondie, Sunshine, Daisy, Rivaini... What am I?
 * Varric: Beg your pardon?
 * Aveline: You don't call anyone by name except for me. Where's my nickname?
 * Varric: That's not true. There's Hawke. And Bianca.
 * Aveline: "Hawke" is a family name and Bianca is a crossbow. Don't change the subject.
 * Varric: Haven't thought of a good one yet. What do you think of "Red?"
 * Aveline: Too common.
 * Varric: Well, when you think of one, let me know.


 * Aveline: You, Varric, have a very large mouth.
 * Varric: And here I've always looked up to you. What is it now?
 * Aveline: There were fistfights in the barracks over who is the model for your guard serial.
 * Varric: Hard in Hightown. Riveting stuff. Everyone loves a dirty guard on the edge.
 * Aveline: Varric.
 * Varric: Fine. I'll start his big finish. Three chapters until Donnen Brennicovick retires and opens a tavern on the coast.
 * Varric: I sure hope he makes it. He's getting too old for this shit.


 * Aveline: You are very close to losing your printing blocks, Varric.
 * Varric: Once more I am falsely accused of whatever it is that I am accused of. Falsely.
 * Aveline: Someone swapped the text of my recruitment poster with some filth from the Blooming Rose.
 * Varric: That does sound pretty good.
 * Aveline: Sure, fill barracks with whores. But you've also filled the Rose with guards.
 * Varric: It is true what they say. The best comedy comes from tragedy.


 * Aveline: You know the Tethras family businesses are registered in your cousin Elmand's name?
 * Varric: You don't say?
 * Aveline: But I can't find any record of you having a cousin Elmand.
 * Varric: I'll introduce you some time. He's a little on the shy side.
 * Aveline: Varric. He's imaginary.
 * Varric: Which makes him a much better head of the household than I am. He never misses the Merchants Guild meetings, for one.

(Only if The Long Road has been completed) (Otherwise)
 * Aveline: You're too quiet, Varric.
 * Varric: I'm thinking of switching to romances. Nothing? Not even a foreboding frown?
 * Aveline: I am content. Write what you will.
 * Varric: Well that certainly takes the fun out of it. Contentment in the barracks? Who'll pay to hear that shit?
 * Aveline: Then I should have thought of it years ago.
 * Aveline: Do what you will. I don't care.
 * Varric: That is... not a comforting thought.
 * Aveline: It is what it is. I'm used to it.
 * Varric: I think we've both lost some inspiration.


 * Aveline: Why are you still here, Varric?
 * Varric: Starkhaven's too pretentious for me and Cumberland's too boring.
 * Aveline: You always say you hate commitment, but here you are, six years later, still at Hawke's side.
 * Varric: Aveline, I thought you'd have noticed by now: I lie a lot.


 * Aveline: Strange, I always thought I'd wind up arresting you some day.
 * Varric: If I ever decide to get caught, Aveline, you'll be the guard I let catch me.
 * Aveline: "Let catch you?"
 * Varric: "Decide to get caught" didn't trip you up though. Good to know!


 * Aveline: How are you at finales, Varric?
 * Varric: I'm expecting some practical experience fairly soon.
 * Aveline: Make it a good one, will you?
 * Varric: For you, madam, endless sunsets and roses.
 * Aveline: Varric.
 * Varric: And the swift hand of the law sweeping all aside. I thought it went unsaid.

Varric and Bethany

 * Bethany: You don't seem to like your brother very much.
 * Varric: And here I thought it took blood magic to read minds.
 * Bethany: I had a twin brother, Carver. He used to nail my braid to the bed while I was sleeping.
 * Bethany: I never thought I'd miss him this much.
 * Varric: Sorry about your brother.
 * Varric: Hey, you want mine? I've got a spare...


 * Bethany: Do you ever wish you lived in Orzammar?
 * Varric: Great Ancestors, no! You know what Orzammar is?
 * Varric: It's cramped tunnels, filled with nug-shit and body-odor.
 * Varric: And every person there thinks he's better than you because his great-great-great grandfather made a water-clock or something.
 * Bethany: But they're your people. Don't you even wonder what it would be like?
 * Varric: I have a good imagination. Why would I waste it on that?


 * Bethany: Are you really not afraid of apostates? Not even a little?
 * Varric: Sunshine, I'm a dwarf. In case you missed that detail.
 * Bethany: Dwarves aren't completely immune to magic, you know.
 * Varric: No, no, no! I meant there are at least thirty people in this town who'd murder my family over trade deals.
 * Varric: Who has time to worry about apostates with a Merchant's Guild breathing down your neck?
 * Bethany: In that case... I see.


 * Bethany: Your family used to be noble, right?
 * Varric: By some definition of the term.
 * Bethany: Do you ever wonder what your life would have been like, if you were still nobles?
 * Varric: Sunshine, nobility is just an expensive lifestyle. I've already got one of those.
 * Bethany: Nobles have power, too. And responsibilities.
 * Varric: Estates, servants, investments, mercenaries, assassins? We've still got all those things.
 * Varric: It's sunnier here, and nobody calls me my lord. I think I can live with that.

(Only if Birthright has been completed)
 * Varric: So... Milady Sunshine, what's your first act of noblewoman going to be?
 * Bethany: A noblewoman with no fortune and no title? Looking for work, probably.
 * Varric: Practicality is for peasants, my lady. You need to do something frivolous to celebrate your birthright.
 * Bethany: Such as...?
 * Varric: Come up to the Hightown Market and complain bitterly that there's no Orlesian silk that matches your eyes.
 * Bethany: But what if something does match my eyes? What will I do, then?
 * Varric: Insist that they're blatantly copying you, and demand royalties. A good noble always has a complaint ready, Sunshine.

Varric and Carver

 * Varric: You know, Junior, it's eerie how much of a resemblance there is between you two.
 * Carver:
 * (If Hawke is male) We're brothers. What's eerie about that?
 * (If Hawke is female) She's my sister. Of course there's a resemblance.
 * Varric: Ooh, you thought I meant Hawke. I was talking about Gamlen.
 * Carver: Maker, I hate you dwarf.


 * Carver: Don't look at me.
 * Varric: What's your issue now, little Hawke?
 * Carver: Don't call me...just don't alright? You're just looking for fodder for your stories.
 * Varric: You think you're that interesting?
 * Carver: I have enough trouble being overshadowed as it is. I don't need to get caught under an imaginary me, too.
 * Varric: Don't you worry. I'm not in the business of lullabies or children's stories.


 * Carver: I'm surprised these tunnels don't simply collapse.
 * Varric: Dwarves made them.
 * Carver: Then I'm surprised they're not smaller.


 * Varric: You know, Junior, you're looking at this all wrong.
 * Carver: Whatever it is you're about to say, I'm not interested.
 * Varric: I'm a professional younger brother. Trust me, the center of attention's the worst place to be.
 * Varric: When things go wrong, and they always do, that's where all the fingers point. Look at any kingdom in Thedas.
 * Varric: You've got people who warm thrones, and people nobody sees who do the real work.
 * Carver:
 * (If Hawke is male) So my brother is a king now? Just what he needed.
 * (If Hawke is female) And my sister is a queen in this scenario. Perfect.
 * Varric: Point. Missing it. Ah well.


 * Carver: Varric.
 * Varric: Carver.
 * Carver: Still think you're helping while burying us in debt to your brother?
 * Varric: Still riding side-saddle while bitching at your betters?
 * Carver: Drinks later?
 * Varric: Never miss'em.

Varric and Isabela



 * Varric: I shit you not, Rivaini, it was this big.
 * Isabela: There's no way. Impossible! I've had hundreds of those in my hands, and they're never that size.
 * Varric: Would I lie about something so critical?

(Next line is dependent on third party member)
 * Anders: I can't stand it anymore—what are you two talking about?
 * Aveline: I'm afraid to ask, but... what are you two going on about?
 * Carver: What is wrong with you two? Can't you ever have a conversation that isn't dirty?
 * Hawke: What are you two talking about?


 * Varric: We're discussing knives, of course. Well, daggers, technically. I never remember the difference.
 * Varric: Why? What did you think we were talking about?


 * Varric: Rivaini, stop looking at my chest. My eyes are up here.
 * Isabela: But the chest hair...
 * Varric: Do you know how much I suffer under your gaze? I am a person, not an object!
 * Isabela: Uh, Varric?
 * Varric: (Laughs) Just shitting you.


 * Varric: You know, Rivaini, you promised me you'd tell me how your ship wrecked.
 * Isabela: I was drunk. I thought the reefs around the Wounded Coast were made of candy.
 * Varric: Oh, come on.
 * Isabela: And a demon told me to do it. It bet me sixty sovereigns and a bottle of port.
 * Isabela: You're not the only one here who can bullshit, you know.


 * Varric: I'll let you run your fingers through it, if you want.
 * Isabela: Your chest hair? My fingers? Oh, Varric, stop! You're making me quiver.
 * Varric: You know you want to.
 * Isabela: Oh, I do... I can't resist you. No woman can.
 * Varric: I know. It's a terrible burden.


 * Varric: Were you listening to that guy in the Hanged Man last night?
 * Isabela: "Your eyes are like bumblebees, flying into the window of my soul." (Laughs)
 * Varric: My favorite was, "Your lips are like the wings of sparrows. Red ones. With no feathers."
 * Isabela: "Oh, speak! And send the plucked wings of your lips soaring."
 * Varric: I'd buy the guy a drink, but I don't think he needs one.


 * Varric: You have got to tell me what was in that box, Rivaini.
 * Isabela: Which box? I've opened so many...
 * Varric: Well, those too. But later. Right now: that Qunari relic.
 * Isabela: I'll make you a deal: I'll tell you what was in that box if you tell me how Bianca got her name.
 * Varric: Fine, forget I asked. Evil woman.


 * Isabela: Come to me, and I'll take you to places you've never been...
 * Varric: Isabela... Are you talking to Bianca?
 * Isabela: I think she deserves to feel a woman's touch on her trigger, don't you?
 * Varric: Bianca responds to my touch. She'd never give it up for you.
 * Isabela: That's what they always say, and I always prove them wrong.
 * Varric: Stop it. You're confusing her. And me.

(If you complete The Long Road) (If Aveline is in the party) (If not)
 * Isabela: Psst. I've got some of it written down now.
 * Varric: Give it here.
 * Varric: "Her breasts strained against the leather jerkin like two wild stallions corralled against their will." (Chuckles)
 * Varric: "She pounced—the smooth moves of a jungle cat—and locked her thighs around Donnic's waist. He—"
 * Aveline: What?
 * Isabela: Nothing.
 * Aveline: What is that?
 * Isabela: Shh! (Giggles)
 * Varric: Isabela just thought she'd celebrate your love affair with a... written dedication.
 * Isabela: It's "friend-fiction!" I do it out of love.
 * Aveline: I will never, ever be clean again.
 * Isabela: Maybe you should read the rest of it in private.
 * Varric: I think that's best.


 * Isabela: Varric, how does one get made a Paragon?
 * Varric: The Assembly votes on it. Enough votes, and—BAM!—you're a living God!
 * Isabela: You should ask to be made a Paragon. Of manliness.
 * Varric: I like the way you think, Rivaini, but one doesn't just ask to be made a Paragon.
 * Isabela: Why not? Everyone can see you're a paragon of manliness. It's just a matter of making it official.


 * Varric: After all this, the life of a pirate is going to be dull, isn't it?
 * Isabela: I know! I'll have to steal myself another Qunari relic.
 * Varric: The scary thing is, I don't know if you're joking!
 * Isabela: Of course I'm joking. I'm not getting involved with those people again.
 * Isabela: No... this time, I'll steal the Queen of Antiva. There's no way that could go wrong.

(If Hawke romances Merrill)
 * Varric: So, Hawke and Daisy.
 * Isabela: I think they're darling together.

(If Hawke previously slept with Isabela)
 * Varric: Really? You're not at all jealous? Because I thought you and Hawke...
 * Isabela: Hawke was just a dalliance. You know I've still got my eye on you.
 * Varric: Keep dreaming, Rivaini.

(Otherwise)
 * Varric: It's almost too adorable. Well, except for the evil blood magic thing.
 * Isabela: The most evil thing Merrill does most days is pick the flowers out of other people's gardens.
 * Varric: I know, I have to bribe most of the gardeners in Hightown to keep it quiet.

(During The Last Straw after choosing sides)
 * Varric: Just curious, does any of this make sense to you?
 * Isabela: What? This whole "everyone's waiting for the world to end" thing?
 * Varric: That, yes.
 * Isabela: Not remotely.
 * Varric: Good. It's not just me, then.

Varric and Merrill



 * Merrill: I've never met a dwarf before.
 * Varric: That's because you spend too much time frolicking in the woods, Daisy. Dwarves don't frolic.
 * Merrill: Dalish don't really frolic, either. Not in the woods anyway.
 * Varric: You have sanctioned frolicking areas?
 * Merrill: No, just not in the woods. The trees get jealous.
 * Varric: But you do frolic?
 * Merrill: Of course we do! We wouldn't be elves, otherwise.


 * Merrill: You remind me of Hahren Paivel, Varric. Only younger. And shorter. And not as serious.
 * Varric: So it's a close resemblance, then.
 * Merrill: Well, he tells stories. And you tell stories. Although none of his begin, "No shit, there I was."
 * Varric: I'll have to give him some better stories, then.

(After you speak to Merrill in her home for the first time)
 * Merrill: Thank you very much for the help earlier, Varric!
 * Varric: You made it back to the Alienage in one piece, then?
 * Merrill: I don't know how I wound up in Darktown. There are just too many corners in Kirkwall.
 * Varric: Still got that ball of twine?
 * Merrill: I left it at my house. Don't worry! I won't get lost while we're following Hawke.
 * Varric: Bring it next time, Daisy. Just in case.


 * Varric: Daisy, for my sake, please quit cutting through the alleys in Lowtown alone at night.
 * Merrill: Nothing ever happens. I'm perfectly safe, Varric.
 * Varric: Yes, I know. And that nothing is costing me a fortune.


 * Varric: So, I hear you've been visiting the viscount's garden, Daisy.
 * Merrill: They're enormous! And they're always empty. Why don't more people go to see them?
 * Varric: Probably because they're private and surrounded by guards.
 * Merrill: I thought all those men looked a bit cross.


 * Merrill: Bianca is a very pretty name.
 * Varric: I'll tell her you said so, Daisy.
 * Merrill: She can't actually hear you, can she?
 * Varric: Of course she can. What kind of a question is that?
 * Merrill: Wait, are we talking about your crossbow or something else now?

(If you complete Family Matter) (Alternatively)
 * Merrill: I'm sorry about your brother, Varric. Have you any other family?
 * Varric: (Snorts) I have family like a rat has fleas, Daisy.
 * Merrill: Does that mean you have a lot of family, or that they make you itch a lot?
 * Varric: Both.
 * Varric: I'm sure any priest who would pray for Bartrand would burst into flames.
 * Merrill: Oh, I didn't know priesthood was so dangerous.
 * Varric: Don't worry Daisy, the chantry keeps a lot of water on hand.

(If you complete Mirror Image)
 * Varric: Why a mirror?
 * Merrill: I don't understand the question.
 * Varric: If your people were going to make a magical whatever for talking to each other, why choose a mirror?
 * Varric: Do elves spend a lot of time talking to their own reflections?
 * Merrill: I suppose the ancient elves would have felt silly talking to a wardrobe or an urn.


 * Merrill: You should have this back.
 * Varric: Twine? When did I loan you a ball of twine?
 * Merrill: You gave it to me when I first moved here when I kept getting lost in Lowtown.
 * Merrill: It drove the merchants in the market completely batty, but it did help me find my way.
 * Varric: Keep it, Daisy.
 * Merrill: I don't think I'll be getting lost again anytime soon.
 * Varric: You never know. You might need to tie a package up, hang a lantern, dress a roast chicken. It's multipurpose.


 * Merrill: Is there a story behind Bianca?
 * Varric: There's a story behind everything, Daisy.
 * Merrill: So tell me!
 * Varric: I can't.
 * Merrill: Why not?
 * Varric: There was a girl, and I made a promise. Bianca is the only story I can never tell.
 * Merrill: You can't say that! Now I want to know even more!
 * Varric: That was the idea, Daisy.

(During A New Path)
 * Varric: Does anybody else get the feeling that this is going to end badly? Just me huh?
 * Merrill: It's not all bad Varric, think of the stories you'll be able to tell later.
 * Varric: No offense Daisy, but I could live without telling anyone that we murdered you on some mountain side, it's little hard to made that one sound good.

(During A New Path)
 * Varric: Who thought putting a demon in a cave on Sundermount was a good idea in the first place?
 * Merrill: Where would you have put him?
 * Varric: Tevinter maybe? Or in the Anderfels? Further away from Kirkwall that's for sure.


 * Merrill: How do you do it, living in the city without picking a side? Doesn't it matter to you?
 * Varric: Of course it does. That's why I don't take sides.
 * Merrill: That doesn't make any sense.
 * Varric: I've got you and Aveline, Fenris and Anders. Hawke. Isabela.
 * Varric: I've got friends in the Circle and drinking buddies in the templars. All of them matter.
 * Merrill: But you're going to fight. If it comes to that, I mean.
 * Varric: I fought my own brother, Daisy. Nobody said this was going to be happy story.

(During The Last Straw)
 * Merrill: Varric, how does the story end?
 * Varric: Which story, Daisy?
 * Merrill: The big one. With us and Hawke, the mages and templars. Everything.
 * Varric: You want to know before it happens? You're not worried about spoiling the surprise?
 * Merrill: I might not see it end.
 * Varric: You have to stick with us if you want to find out how it turns out, Daisy.

Varric and Sebastian



 * Sebastian: It's been very exciting working with Hawke.
 * Varric: Are you for real?
 * Sebastian:
 * (If Hawke is male) It seems like he's involved every time there's a crisis in Kirkwall.
 * (If Hawke is female) It seems like she's involved every time something goes wrong in Kirkwall.
 * Sebastian: I've never had so many opportunities to help people!
 * Varric: All right. I thought I was getting tired of moody. I take it back.
 * Varric: You're making my teeth ache.


 * Varric: So, Choir Boy, this usurper of yours is... twenty feet tall?
 * Sebastian: Not even close, no.
 * Varric: But he has claws for hands, right?
 * Sebastian: Fingers. Perfectly normal ones. If a little fat, perhaps.
 * Varric: He eats babies, though. And farts fire.
 * Sebastian: You're not serious, I hope.
 * Varric: You can't even pretend to be interesting, can you?


 * Sebastian: You must forgive your brother.
 * Varric: While you were off playing prince, Bartrand trapped us in the Deep Roads and left us to die.
 * Sebastian: When you hold onto anger, it colors everything you do.
 * Sebastian: You escaped the Deep Roads. You built a life without your brother. Do you still want him haunting you?
 * Varric: Oh, go find some beggars to sing to, will you?


 * Varric: Tell us about Starkhaven, Choir Boy. I'm sure we're all burning with curiosity about your far-away land.
 * Sebastian: "My far-away land?" It's inland Free Marches, not on the moon.
 * Varric: And here I was hoping...
 * Sebastian: It's a lot like here. But fewer dead people.
 * Varric: Well, you don't have Hawke.


 * Varric: I've heard rumors about Starkhaven, you know.
 * Varric: They say you eat the dead up there. And murder strangers in the street.
 * Sebastian: Why do I suspect that when you say you've "heard" rumors, you mean you've invented some?
 * Varric: Six of one, half-dozen of another.


 * Varric: You know, Choir Boy, I wouldn't normally say this, but—the shiny white armor? It works for you.
 * Sebastian: That's uncharacteristically kind of you, Varric.
 * Varric: Makes you look like a lacquered pilot whale.
 * Sebastian: Ah, now that was much more in-character.


 * Sebastian: You know, if you have time, I could give you a few archery pointers.
 * Varric: Excuse me?
 * Sebastian: Sometimes your shots veer a little left, I thought maybe your cocking ring was off.
 * Sebastian: I could take a look if you like.
 * Varric: You want to touch Bianca's cocking ring?
 * Sebastian: It was just a thought.


 * Varric: So, I've known you for three years now. I give up. You beat me. What is it?
 * Varric: You like boys? Sheep? You slept with your sister?
 * Sebastian: What are you talking about?
 * Varric: What are you hiding? Nobody's this bloody clean.
 * Varric: After you leave the chantry you... get drunk at the Hanged Man and walk around in women's clothes?

(If Isabela is in the party)
 * Isabela: Not that I've seen. Unfortunately.
 * Sebastian: I've been honest with you and Hawke.
 * Varric: Liar.
 * Sebastian: Lying is a sin.

Varric's remarks

 * (If in Act 1) "This is great! Now I can tell Bartrand you're an experienced Deep Roads explorer!"
 * (If in Act 3) "I hope you told Bodahn where you were going. If you never come back, maybe someone will send a search party after their Champion."
 * (Approaching the first corpse of a Legionnaire in the Tower Base) "That looks like Legion of the Dead armour. It's an Orzammar thing. No matter your crime if you join the Legion and vow to die fighting darkspawn, your name is cleared."
 * (If Anders is in the party) "I had a friend from the Legion once. A girl named Sigrun. Not nearly as dour as you'd expect."
 * (After reading the First Legionnaire's journal) "The Legion of the Dead...sent after Paragon Garen's heir. Why does that sound familiar? I think Garen was some time in the early Exalted Age... hundreds of years ago."
 * (After Hawke says the funeral rite to Tethras Garen) "That was sweet Hawke. Now let's get out of here before you see me cry.
 * (After speaking with Larius or Janeka) "So does anyone else feel like we're walking into a trap? Just me? Good to know."
 * (While Hawke is breaking the seals) "Maybe we should prepare for, I don't know, the end of the world? Just in case?"

(Reacting to Anders' hearing voices)
 * "Come on, Blondie. You're strong enough to overcome this."
 * "Hang in there, Blondie! We're going to get you out of this!"

(In battle with Corypheus)
 * "Keep clear of the flames! Sometimes I hate having short legs!"
 * "Pay attention, Hawke. I really don't want this story to end "And then they all got splattered.""
 * "I was just thinking, "What's missing here?" A giant storm, of course!"
 * "If he pulls a dragon out of his ass, I'm leaving!"

Varric and Aveline

 * Aveline: Did you know anything about this Carta, Varric?
 * Varric: Not my crowd. Unsubtle. Kind of fuzzy in their business plan... uh, I assume.
 * Aveline: You keep secrets and people die.
 * Varric: You keep kicking random beehives and you'll get stung.
 * Aveline: What's that supposed to mean?
 * Varric: No keeper, no bees, no honey. I like honey.
 * Aveline: Damn it, dwarf.


 * Aveline: All right, tell me. How does it end?
 * Varric: Beg your pardon?
 * Aveline: That guard story of yours. The... the one with a guardsman who falls in love with a templar knight-captain.
 * Varric: Oh, the romance! Swords and Shields. I just started that serial. It's got ten chapters to go.
 * Aveline: Yes, but you know how it ends! Just tell me.
 * Varric: I've got an idea, but the story... the story will go where it wants to go. The characters drive it, not me.
 * Aveline: You're the author! That makes no sense at all!
 * Varric: A good story, you don't really write. It was always there. You just uncover it.

(Upon seeing the Power Nexus Puzzle)
 * Varric: Ugh, why does it always have to be so complicated? Can't Aveline just bash through the wall?
 * Aveline: Very funny, Varric.


 * Varric: We passed another broken pillar. You know what that means.

(If Isabela is in the party)
 * Isabela: Everybody take a drink!

(If Anders is in the party)
 * Anders: The last time we played this game, I kissed an ogre. Please let's not go there again.

(If Aveline is in the party)
 * Aveline: Didn't the last game end with Isabela getting Orlesian with a lyrium vein?
 * Varric: Yep!
 * Aveline: Carry on then.

Varric and Bethany
 (During Act 1)
 * Varric: Sunshine? What's wrong? Not feeling well?
 * Bethany: I'm fine, Varric. Just... I expected... templars, or blackmail. I never thought our home would come under attack.
 * Varric: Good. Keep thinking that way. It's got to be nice to think of some place as safe.

(If Bethany in the Circle)
 * Varric: Good to be out and about Sunshine?
 * Bethany: It's exciting, I'll say that. How much does someone want me dead to attack me in the Gallows?
 * Varric: A Hawke attracting obsessives with a poor grasp of consequence? Colour me stunned.
 * Bethany: (Laughs) Be serious!
 * Varric: Sorry, I have a reputation to maintain.

(If Bethany is a Grey Warden)
 * Varric: You're not looking so sunny, Sunshine.
 * Bethany: It's not how I wanted to come back. If I did at all.
 * Varric: Now, maybe the old place didn't roll out the welcome, but it's still home, right?
 * Bethany: I've spent more time as a Warden than I did in Kirkwall.
 * Varric: It ain't the buildings I'm talking about. It's good to see you.
 * Bethany: Thank you.

Varric and Carver
<section begin="Varric Carver Legacy"/> (During Act 1)
 * Varric: What's the matter Junior? Three assassination attempts! You're the centre of attention! I thought you'd be happier.
 * Carver: They were trying to lure my brother into a trap, that's all.
 * Varric: It's a start. Keep at it and pretty soon, you'll get some thugs of your very own.

(If Carver is a templar)
 * Varric: I'll bet the Knight-Commander was thrilled one of her templars was attacked in the Gallows.
 * Carver: Ecstatic.
 * Varric: Did she make you clean up the mess?
 * Carver: We hired some dwarves. Proper ones, with swabbing beards.
 * Varric: Good to know the Paragons have steady work.

(If Carver is a Grey Warden)
 * Varric: You've been away too long, Junior.
 * Carver: Running short of fodder for your stories?
 * Varric: Do you know another lovable lug with more sword than sense?
 * Carver: I've seen things far more threatening than your verse, my friend. Do your worst.
 * Varric: So be it. We shall meet in battle when properly drunk. And safe from darkspawn, blah blah blah.<section end="Varric Carver Legacy"/>

Varric and Isabela
<section begin="Varric Isabela Legacy"/>
 * Varric: We passed another broken pillar. You know what that means.

(If Isabela is in the party)
 * Isabela: Everybody take a drink!

(If Anders is in the party)
 * Anders: The last time we played this game, I kissed an ogre. Please let's not go there again.

(If Aveline is in the party)
 * Aveline: Didn't the last game end with Isabela getting Orlesian with a lyrium vein?
 * Varric: Yep!
 * Aveline: Carry on then.


 * Isabela: You've a nickname for everyone.
 * Varric: That's true. Rivaini.
 * Isabela: But everyone just calls you Varric. That's hardly fair.
 * Varric: Well, it's my story.
 * Isabela: What?
 * Varric: Nothing.

(Approaching the abandoned quarry in the Vimmark Wasteland)
 * Isabela: Dwarves are funny. Look at them scurrying away on their stumpy little legs.
 * Varric: I heard that.
 * Isabela: It's cute when you do it.
 * Varric: Well, it's my story.<section end="Varric Isabela Legacy"/>

Varric and Merrill
<section begin="Varric Merrill Legacy"/>
 * Merrill: Do your stories ever have griffons in them?
 * Varric: Kind of tricky because they're extinct. You can work a griffon attack into a town but it takes skill.
 * Merrill: I was thinking more like... heroic griffons. The sort that swoop in and save the day.
 * Varric: Daisy, haven't you heard? Swooping is bad.
 * Merrill: Oh.
 * Varric: I could do heroic charging, though. You want me to call him "Feathers"?
 * Merrill: Yes! And make him extra fluffy!


 * Merrill: Am I in your stories Varric?
 * Varric: Daisy, everyone is fair game for my stories.
 * Merrill: I never hear any stories with me in them! What sorts of things do I do?
 * Varric: Well, you get lost a lot. You wind up in the middle of a dog racing track in Darktown. Or in the viscount's bathing room.
 * Merrill: So they're true stories?
 * Varric: Daisy, I could never make that stuff up. Nobody would believe it.<section end="Varric Merrill Legacy"/>

Varric and Sebastian
<section begin="Varric Sebastian Legacy"/>
 * Varric: Choir boy! What are you doing?
 * Sebastian: Nothing! Nothing!
 * Varric: Are you trying to peek at my notes?
 * Sebastian: I've... heard some strange rumours about a "belt buckle of righteousness."
 * Varric: Did you hear the part about how it tells the future of your pants, or how it burns its expression into the faces of sinners? The pants one is my favourite. Has more pathos.


 * Sebastian: We don't have many dwarves in Starkhaven. Is the Carta part of the Merchants' Guild?
 * Varric: Are you kidding? The Carta's only the worst gang of thugs in Orzammar. Their main trades are lyrium smuggling, gambling and murder for hire.
 * Sebastian: I'm sorry. I didn't know—
 * Varric: So, yes. Basically, just like the Guild.<section end="Varric Sebastian Legacy"/>

Varric's remarks

 * (After meeting Tallis) "The lady knows how to make an entrance."
 * (When clicked on a friendship path) "Why is it you never take me anywhere nice?"
 * (When clicked on a rivalry path) "You just can't keep out of trouble, can you?"
 * (When clicked) "I'm sure you're eager to punch something, Hawke, but don't look at me."
 * (About the three statues in the Dungeons) "And this array of sculptures is known as "Scurvy Bastards Reflecting on Modern Life." After much reflection, they appear to have come to the conclusion, "Well, shit.""
 * (When clicked, during the wyvern hunt) "Are we actually supposed to catch one of these things or just look fashionable doing it? I never can tell with Orlesians."
 * (When clicked after leaving the Dungeons, if you help Tallis) "Nobody is going to believe this story later."

Varric and Aveline
<section begin="Varric Aveline MotA"/>
 * Varric: Should have come to the Hanged Man last week. You missed Brennan drunk off her ass, reciting love poems to Corff.
 * Aveline: She did not!
 * Varric: Four hours she spent clinging to the bar, shouting sonnets at the poor man.
 * Aveline: Ugh, a guardsman's poetry. That's assault, that is.
 * Varric: Keep an eye on her. I think she's in possession of a few concealed dirty limericks, too.


 * Aveline: Are these sort of people who buy that drivel you write?
 * Varric: Can you blame them? Shut up in their dreary castles, surrounded by other stuffy nobles who only talk about money and politics...
 * Varric: How could they not long for the cold days and hot nights of a fiery, passionate guardswoman?
 * Aveline: I prefer my tales a little more grounded. Less of the "giant sword and heaving bosom" variety.

(While looking for Hawke and Tallis)
 * Aveline: We've been going in circles for over an hour.
 * Varric: I'm so used to Hawke leading the way, I think my sense of direction has withered.
 * Varric:
 * (if Hawke is male) So... wait for him to rescue us?
 * (if Hawke is female) So... wait here for her to rescue us?
 * Aveline: When you tell this part? Leave it out.<section end="Varric Aveline MotA"/>

Varric and Bethany
<section begin="Varric Bethany MotA"/>
 * Varric: What's the matter, Sunshine? Thought you'd be enjoying the whole "fancy Orlesian estate" thing more.

(If Bethany is a Circle Mage)
 * Bethany: I can't believe I wore this to the chateau! Maker, what was I thinking?
 * Varric: That it's the uniform of the Circle and you could make a burlap sack look good?
 * Bethany: It's hardly the height of fashion.
 * Varric: You would kill these people if you wore the height of fashion.
 * Bethany: I suppose one must be merciful.

(If Bethany is a Grey Warden)
 * Bethany: I used to want this, you know?
 * Varric: Still do. I can tell.
 * Bethany: But it's far, far less likely to happen.
 * Varric: Since when does "want" give two squirts about "likely?" Enjoy it.
 * Bethany: "Two squirts," Varric?
 * Varric: Ah, all this grandeur has me eloquented out.<section end="Varric Bethany MotA"/>

Varric and Carver
<section begin="Varric Carver MotA"/> (During Act 1)
 * Carver: How do you put up with Bartrand? He's the most arrogant horse's ass I've ever met.
 * Varric: It's not that hard, Junior. He's my brother.
 * Carver: Don't start with that "unconditional love" rubbish.
 * Varric: Forget family ties: I have blackmail material forever. At any point, I can launch into the story of how he peed himself at a grand ball.
 * Carver: Yeah, all right, I'd pay to hear that.

(During Act 2 or Act 3)
 * Carver: Still playing the innocent while picking every purse in sight?
 * Varric: Still... actually, you're doing all right.
 * Carver: Thought I was. I suppose it's the same for you, really.
 * Varric: 'Tis true, 'tis true. (Sighs)
 * Carver: It's more fun hating each other, isn't it.
 * Varric: Absolutely.

(While looking for Hawke and Tallis. If Carver is a Grey Warden)
 * Carver: So, we're lost.
 * Varric: Just like old times.
 * Carver: Maker, I hope not. I was an ass.
 * Varric: (Laughs) Fair comment, Junior. All right, let's get this done.<section end="Varric Carver MotA"/>

Varric and Isabela
<section begin="Varric Isabela MotA"/>
 * Varric: Our little Hawke is growing up, Rivaini.

(If Hawke is female)
 * Isabela: Burglary and espionage! We should've hired a painter to get her portrait so we can remember this day forever!
 * Varric: Next thing you know, she'll be conning guards and cutting purses without us. Where does the time go?

(If Hawke is male)
 * Isabela: I know! Burglary and espionage! I'm so proud of him right now, I could burst!
 * Varric: Soon, he'll be sharking card games and swindling merchants all on his own! Brings a tear to my eye!

(If Hawke has a diplomatic/helpful personality)
 * Hawke: Don't get carried away.
 * Isabela: Carried away? Us? Perish the thought!
 * Varric: We are the very souls of moderation, Hawke. You know that.

(If Hawke has a humorous/charming personality)
 * Hawke: Everything I know about being a scoundrel, I learned from you two.
 * Isabela: I think I'm going to cry. Look at me! I'm getting misty-eyed!

(If Hawke has an aggressive/direct personality)
 * Hawke: I can hear you, you know.
 * Isabela: Still a grouch, though. So much to teach, so little time...


 * Isabela: So I hear there was very little dancing at the party. Not a flounce or a pirouette in sight.
 * Varric: Didn't think you'd show interest in any dance that doesn't end with someone's guts on the floor.
 * Isabela: All women like dancing. Just ask Bianca.
 * Varric: Bianca isn't interested in any dance that doesn't end with someone's guts on the floor.
 * Isabela: Oh. Right.

(While looking for Hawke and Tallis)
 * Isabela: I give up! We've been through every inch of this place twice, and there's no sign of them!
 * Varric: Or we've been through the same twenty feet of this place about a dozen times. It's hard to tell, Rivaini.
 * Isabela: We should have gone treasure-hunting in Wildervale instead.
 * Varric: You're still upset that you couldn't swipe a drink from the party, aren't you?<section end="Varric Isabela MotA"/>

Varric and Merrill
<section begin="Varric Merrill MotA"/>
 * Merrill: I know you're in the Merchants Guild, Varric, but I've never seen your shop.
 * Varric: We're not that kind of merchant, Daisy.
 * Merrill: What kind are you, then?
 * Varric: House Tethas invests in... you're not going to understand a word of this financial stuff, are you?
 * Merrill: Not a word, no. But I promise to pay close attention anyway!
 * Varric: Right. In that case, we have lots of shops. But they're invisible. Only dwarves and accountants can see them.


 * Merrill: Tell me a story, Varric.
 * Varric: Right now? I don't think we have time, Daisy.
 * Merrill: Maybe a very short story, then? Please?
 * Varric: Fine. "When the cards turned, he lost."
 * Merrill: Oh. Did it have to be so sad?<section end="Varric Merrill MotA"/>

Varric and Sebastian
<section begin="Varric Sebastian MotA"/>
 * Sebastian: Your Merchants Guild reminds me of the court at Starkhaven. Intrigue and gossip wrapped in a layer of formality.
 * Varric: If Starkhaven was a tenth as bad, I see why you took to the Chantry.
 * Sebastian: Fashion was the worst part. In the Chantry, I never have to worry whether doublets are meant to be fitted or padded this year.
 * Varric: In Starkhaven, do they bludgeon you to death for forgetting the name of a minor clerk's third daughter?
 * Sebastian: Only if you're lucky.
 * Varric: Choir Boy, suddenly your life makes much more sense to me.


 * Sebastian: I'm surprised your parents never married you off, Varric.
 * Varric: I was still in diapers when my father died. I'm sure he was getting around to it.
 * Sebastian: And your brother never married either, right? Wasn't he concerned about continuing the Tethras line?
 * Varric: Your family's dead and you're still celibate, right?

(If Hawke is male)
 * Varric: Why don't you take care of that little quirk before you come bothering me.

(If Hawke is female)
 * Varric: Or has Hawke managed to talk you out of that?
 * Hawke: (Sighs) Not yet.
 * Varric: Pity.


 * Sebastian: You know, we're not that different, Varric. There was a time when I spent my days drinking and gambling.
 * Varric: Was this before or after you got Andraste's face soldered to your pelvis?
 * Sebastian: During, actually. That's not the sort of thing a man does while he's sober. I'm just lucky it's a belt buckle and not a tattoo.

(While looking for Hawke and Tallis) <section end="Varric Sebastian MotA"/>
 * Sebastian: When you tell people about this part of our adventure, what are you going to say?
 * Varric: That depends entirely on the audience, Choir Boy.
 * Sebastian: You change the story to suit the listener?
 * Varric:
 * (if Hawke is male) Of course. All the bullshit in the world won't convince Hawke we rescued him if he finds us first.
 * (if Hawke is female) No bullshit—however well-told—will persuade Hawke that we rescued her if she finds us first. That's common sense.

Varric and Tallis
<section begin="Varric Tallis MotA"/> (Entering Hunting Grounds - West for the first time)
 * Tallis: So these are the hunting grounds.
 * Varric: I take it we run around randomly shouting, "Here, wyvern wyvern wyvern!"

(After some hunters make remarks about wyverns during the hunt)
 * Varric: You want to just stand back and watch? Should be good for a few laughs."
 * Tallis: Just ignore them.


 * Tallis: Last name Tethras, right? I've heard of that clan.
 * Varric: Get out! Nobody's heard of Clan Tethras.
 * Tallis: My father owned a dwarven sword with a Clan Tethras rune on it.
 * Varric: Huh. Must have been Dusan. He was a smith. Tried to become Paragon, ended up poisoning himself.
 * Tallis: Really?
 * Varric: He was terrible at intrigue. Forgot which goblet he'd put the poison in. Wasn't finished gloating to his enemy when he keeled over.
 * Varric: I think the family always had a sense for terrible drama.

(After Tallis' identity is revealed)
 * Varric: All right, Shivs, I'll admit it: I'm surprised the Qunari employ thieves. They never struck me as the subtle type.
 * Tallis: That's because you've only met the antaam. Armies aren't usually celebrated for their sneakiness. Also, "Shivs?"
 * Varric: Yes, "Shivs." So, how does stealing valuables from a pompous Orlesian noble fit in with your Qun?
 * Tallis: "The eyes don't own the light, the mouth does not own the breath." Things are just things to the Qun. They belong to everyone.
 * Varric: Even the Tome of Koslun? That was worth starting a war over.
 * Tallis: The Tome isn't a thing anymore. It's a soul, a purpose. Like Bianca, but with pages.<section end="Varric Tallis MotA"/>