#letter codex

A letter from the Left Hand of the Divine to King Alistair of Ferelden. 9:38 Dragon.

Dear Alistair,

How is life back in Ferelden? It has been a while since we last saw each other, but whenever I think of you and Mara and the kids, I get a rush of warmth in my heart. You have done so well for yourselves; it is a balm to sore souls. I hope this letter finds all of you in great spirits, despite the current events. 

However, it is because of current events that I write. The conflicts between mages, templars and the Chantry are escalating, as you must know, and we are in dire need of someone of strong resolve to assist us. Alec came to mind. Some in the Chantry do not believe an elven mage to be quite the spokesperson they need, but I think it is about time we opened the doors of Chantry leadership to everyone, regardless of what their ears look like or what powers the Maker found fit to bestow upon them.

As a mage, I am sure that Alec would have more luck appeasing to the rebel mages than anyone else. Not to mention what I have seen him accomplish when we were all fighting together against the Blight. Alec turns plans into reality; he makes things happen. His assistance could prevent so many deaths. I have seen so many young mages left devoid of a house, of food, because of this conflict. So many have died on both sides. If he would champion a platform for peace, we might end this war, and we might bring real change to the Circles -- long overdue.

The problem is… I cannot seem to find him. I have sent an agent to Soldier’s Peak, but Sigrun, his Second-in-Command, informed them that Alec was out on confidential businesses. That he had been away for months I sent missives to Vigil’s Keep and Weisshaupt to no avail. He hasn’t been to either lately. That is why I turn to you, old friend. You are his family. Perhaps he has told Mara of his whereabouts, or sent a letter as of recently?

I would appreciate any information on where Alec might be. It could mean the end of this conflict, if we can just find him.

Please send Mara and the kids all of my love,

Best wishes,

Leliana.

And the reply:

A letter from King Alistair to the Left Hand of the Divine. 9:38 Dragon.

First of all, I am offended you did not mean me by “someone of strong resolve,” but I will let that slide. Unfortunately, I do not think I can help you on this one. 

The last time Alec was here was some eight months ago, and he hasn’t sent any letters since. He stayed a while, but didn’t tell me or Mara where he was going next – I mean, he did, but even I am not that stupid to believe him, right? Getting him to tell you of his plans when he doesn’t want to share them is like trying to wring milk out of a feral bronto or something. I’d rather not, so I didn’t even try. 

He did say something about a dwarven resort and hot springs? Sounded like just another one of his lies, but I admit I was actually tempted to check that out myself. You know, if it weren’t for mages breaking out of Circles and Templars going rogue and all of that lovely fun. Can you believe no one told me Kings didn’t have paid holidays when I signed up for this? Beats me why anyone would willingly want to be King – except maybe for the fact you don’t have to write your own letters.

Anyhow… About Alec. I’m sorry I can’t help. To be honest, however, I doubt he would be willing to play puppet for the Chantry in the current conflicts, but what do I know of that man? He’s weird.

You should stop by sometime. The kids loved the Orlesian toys you sent, and they sometimes ask about the auntie who plays music. 

Something something, good luck, best wishes, you know the drill.

King Alistair of Ferelden

on the corner, in rustier handwriting and containing a few spelling errors: This scribe says he is honor-bound to write every single word I say. I know he’s having me on, but I can’t really fire him. He’s got a baby kid.