sparkler | ic inbox for ataraxion

Yes. I've used a bit of it, but there's still plenty left.

[And even with the help of lyrium, he couldn't enter the Fade. A failed experiment, but at least he learned from it.]

I'm sure you're aware that I am not the only templar- former or otherwise- on this ship.

[This is kind of the tricky part. He knows that it's a delicate subject among most templars, doubts that Evangeline would enjoy him discussing such matters with anyone, let alone a Tevinter mage. Still, he doesn't exactly think that Dorian would just hand it over if he asked for it, considering the circumstances. That doesn't leave him with a lot of options.

He settles for just the implication, trusting that Dorian is smart enough to figure out what he intends to do with it.]

If you're willing to part with it, it would be appreciated.

If you really need it, I'll give it to you.

[He is aware of Evangeline - he's also aware that even with her there, Cullen could be asking for himself, not her. But it's not Dorian's right to police Cullen's actions. If he wants the lyrium, Dorian will give it to him. He may not approve - but it's Cullen's life. He's a big boy, he can make his own choices.]

I suppose I haven't much use for it right now anyway.

Thank you. I'll be by later to get it.

How have you been holding up? With the Inquisitor and Solas here now... things are going to be different.

Better, hopefully. Though what will Solas talk about, given there's no Fade here?

I'm doing well enough, Commander. I ought to be the one asking you that.

I would imagine that he'd be very interested in studying the lack of it, though I don't know him very well.

Should you? I'm as well as can be expected. If that should change, someone would probably inform you.

No further issues with Fenris, I hope?

I would hope that you would inform me if something were to go horribly wrong.

And no, not yet. In fact, no one's tried to kill me in weeks. If I had peeled grapes, good wine, and a scented bath, I'd be in paradise.

You know what I mean.

I don't have any of those things, but I have found a chess set in one of the recreational facilities if that strikes your fancy. At least, what these people pass off as chess? It isn't quite like it is at home and I wasn't sure if it's actually something in your interests but I thought to ask you before the others. That is, you seemed more likely to enjoy... well. Playing.

If you want.

That sounds delightful. I could use more pleasant things to do, besides walking in the gardens and drinking. And I do play, though I suppose we may have to make up rules if the pieces are different. Or perhaps we can alter the board.

I thought you were working with the science department?

I'll leave the decision to alter or not up to you. It seems simple enough as it is, though maybe a little too straightforward. I'll have to have someone who's accustomed to it explain the rules more clearly to me.

I am. As interesting as that is, though, it's not exactly relaxing. Too many things to worry about. Everyone needs some time to relax, after all.

[Even you, Cullen.]

And that sounds like it might do the trick, at least sometimes.