@magioffire from starter call
Before him, there was a vision of care in grooming, posture, and demeanor—an act but it was fluid, almost natural, practice made into perfect survival. It demanded attention and respect. And a bit of caution.
On impulse, Cole tried to read thoughts and feelings. Something. Anything.
But guarded and secure, much like Solas, only the surface of the strongest emotions and memories seen through the hazy barriers of a lifetime of practice. Hidden and kept under lock and key. Protection from anything and anyone.
The work it must have taken to do it, he thought in admiration.
Trying to find some way to preemptively endear him to Cole with compliments like Varric had offhandedly mentioned while a bit tipsy, he blurted out, "Is everyone from Minrathous pretty?"
Right, listening to Varric's alcoholic advice was not advisable, he very quickly decided.
He hid the grimace beneath his hat. No. Wrong. Maybe he could make him forget? No. He promised the others he wouldn't do it as frequently, save it for emergencies.