Thank goodness for small favors then. I would be no different than the despots back at the Chantry who persuade the good to do evil under the Maker's holy name.

[ He grumbles darkly in a slight flair of anger. His mood as late is quite violent and unsteady. ]

Alcohol solves nothing but wine is soothing. I cannot fathom what overcomes me as of late. Between the constant battles, the cold and the fiendish gleam of the red lyrium--I feel as if I'm being driven to madness!

Thedas has been going mad for Ages. It's simply that it's finally starting to show.

[His tone isn't dismissive, simply acknowledging.]

Perhaps, when all oppressive regimes are dealt with, it will find sanity once more. Balance once more. The red lyrium, I feel, is just a symptom of a greater disease, and one that can be healed. But it will take work.

[There's a beat.]

Perhaps get some rest as well, and some time away from the crystal.

Rest doesn't come easy when fretting over the state of things.

[He sighs. There's much still lingering on Alayre's mind but he doesn't want to voice it.]

We have to begin the process of healing this realm, Detlef. I don't want our descendants to suffer as we have.

I've spent so many years of my life dreaming of freedom and equality. I would give everything to make sure no more mages are punished for the sake of existing. Or Dalish, for that matter, elves of any kind.

A future without oppression... I don't know that we'll get to see it, but I want to so very much.

We share a similar dream but I'll do whatever is necessary to see it through.

[A thoughtful hum escapes him.]

As long as we're willing to lay the groundwork, I'm certain such a future will come to be. Though, be prepared for the world itself to try impede upon our march.

I'd expect nothing less. Power is most easily consolidated when you direct hatred at a group; mages are the easiest. But I'll not give over easily.