[As Fern pushed through, stepped into the porch, Varian felt his heart leap into his throat. He didn't want this to become a fight, he didn't want to lose Fern again after just getting him back. But he couldn't let Fern kill Ruby, either. That would be something he absolutely couldn't live with. Completely and categorically.

So when he steps out, he's got one of his alchemy balls in his hand- he left his staff at home, thinking he wouldn't need it- now he regrets that action. Regardless- he steps out, shoulder tensed, ready to lob the goddamn thing- it's not one that would hurt Fern, it's just a sticky trap, But needs must.

Fern stops for himself though, sinking down to his knees. Varian fights the urge to sink down with him, remaining standing, tense, on guard. They'd built their bridges back today, but this head put a strain on them. He's not ready to let his guard down again yet. He doesn't let go of the ball as he moves to stand across from Fern on the porch, everything in his stance coiled and unsettled. ]

This has to stop, Fern. [Despite the tenseness of his body, his voice is tired. ] I'm not- I'm not asking you to like her, heck, I'm not asking you to like that we're together. But you need to stop treating her like she's a threat. Because she's not. I'm still here. But I can't keep excusing you deciding her life is forfeit.

[He pinches the bridge of his nose with the thumb and forefinger of his free hand. He's so goddamn tired. This is feeling too much like Cassandra again. Trying to pull her from that precipice and failing. This is so damn difficult. ]

Please. Whatever this beef is? Just... stop.