Is it truly possible to be too hard on yourself? I'd always thought it to be fair and just to take a stern approach toward one's self. A man must be disciplined and honorable above all else. He must be willing to face his mistakes, to redeem himself of his sins. Yet... could it be that there is a such thing as too much self-criticism?

On another matter, does anyone know if there exists a repellent for birds? Apparently, I've attracted their attention a little too well. If I stand still, they perch upon me. If I shake them off, they simply circle around with mocking noises. Please advise. Thank you.

[If his stupid pet Bastard's affection for him is any indication, this was inevitable, and probably has no real solution, other than simply dealing with it.]

It always comes down to blood, doesn't it?

I was controlled by blood magic once, and made to do terrible things under another's power. I betrayed my closest friends, and did things that I regret... even now, I carry that guilt with me as a heavy burden. I think about it constantly, daily. I cannot ever truly let it go.

Blood nearly ruined me, yet much later on, blood is what saved me.

[Technically, this is true of becoming a reaver and a Warden, as drinking blood is essential for both. At least his thoughts move on, before getting too specific.]

Sometimes, I just wish I could go off to a dragon's lair and care for their young for them as did the ancient cultists. Again, it comes down to blood there as well. Life would be so much simpler...

[There's some high-pitched squawking and swearing in the background before Kain speaks up.]

I might as well just give you away, you demented crea- ah, anyway. Sorry about that. I was wondering, does anyone have any worthwhile tips to share about catching rare birds? It seems I only attract the variety who might as well be possessed by demons. What I'm looking for is something more... uh, refined.

[There is no way in Thedas they'll win any favor if he gives away his own "pet" bird, but oh he has considered it.]

Your advice is appreciated. Thank you.

Good evening, Inquisition. For those of you who do not know my melodic voice, this is Knight-Commander James Norrington, your friendly neighborhood Head Armorer. Why are you hearing from me today? Well, simply put ... I need ideas.

No, not for what colors placards should be.

I am trying to research more effective weapons and armor so we might stand a better chance against ... well. Everything that has been getting thrown at us lately. To that end, I am looking for anyone who might have - or even heard of - any sort of blueprint for more effective gear than we currently have on hand.

To that end, if anyone has a line on better materials to make said armor and weaponry with, I would not say no to that either.

I have kept us well within the budget for as long as I have held this position, so I can offer coin for those who bring me back viable options. Not a lot of coin - I'm a Templar, not a Walking Coffer - but I know every bit helps these days.

...besides, beyond all that, don't you want to be wearing something that will keep you alive a bit longer?

It's been a long year already, and it's still only a couple of months in. But... what's done is done. We can do nothing more for those lost but move forward and remember. After everything that happened after Ghislain, it only seemed right that I return home again, to see the people there, after everything... [He seemingly loses his train of thought and trails off into a silence for a moment, before collecting himself and resuming.] Anyway, it's done. I'm back now.

Has all been well here? I see and hear no signs of restless spirits, so I can only assume it has been. Relatively well, anyway. Still, if there's anything of importance that I've missed, I would be glad to hear of it. I have little input about the Divine, I'm afraid, as I would rather defer to someone who's more invested and knowledgeable on the matter than I.

Also, I was sent back here with far more Orlesian sweets and confections than I know what to do with. Might there be anyone with a sweet tooth who would take some of these goods off my hands?

[She hates these fucking things, and it's almost audible in the disdain with which she clears her throat before speaking:]

This is Teren von Skraedder. Those of you having business with the Grey Wardens will now approach me as their representative in Kirkwall.
If you've any questions, keep them quick.


[Privately, to the other Wardens:]

In the meantime, we've some matters to consider: the Blight cure, the situation in Weisshaupt, the entire bloody mass of our fellows siding with Corypheus. Not to mention the usual darkspawn bollocks.
Also, if one of you would be so kind as to take over duties as quartermaster, I would be grateful to you.

The Inquisition's records regarding what to do with us if we all die are incomplete. Obviously half of you do not have any family—

[ Coming next month: sensitivity training.]

—but if you would like your remains or your belongings handled in a specific way or given to a specific person, there is a form in the Senechal's office. Or I can write it down for you, if you tell me how you would like your mummy dressed.

The deadline is at some point before you die. So you should do it this week.

[ Salvio—poor Salvio—has actually done something to deserve this, and that something was asking Kostos to make this announcement in the first place. ]

[Kain sounds very controlled and measured, the tone of someone speaking carefully so as not to let too many emotions out. This idea has been brewing in the back of his mind throughout the whole journey home. Covering it up isn't quite... covering it, though he's still trying that anyway. Still. The shard caused this problem, so it has to go.]

Might anyone have an axe I could borrow for a time? A smaller one that can effectively cut… uh, especially hard materials. The extras available in the armory aren't quite good enough. [And it's pretty difficult to swing his usual two-handed sword at... what he wants to swing it at.]

I'm willing to pay for allowing me its use, if that helps any.

[Just say no.]