"Trust me," says Stalas. "I know exactly what I'm doing, and it's going to end in the release of as many of your kidnapped friends as are still in reach."

Shianni makes a worried expression, but settles down.

"Unfortunately, that won't be all of them. Anyone taken in the last week will still be in the warehouse, the transport won't arrive until tomorrow."

"Yes, I was afraid of that," says Stalas. "What else can you tell me?"

"Many things. It may also interest you to know that this operation is being conducted with the full knowledge and permission of the Regent Loghain."

"It interests me immensely, yes," he says. "I want these people freed and I want proof of the regent's involvement. Can you help me?"

"I could. But if I do, I will be alone in a foreign country whose natives dislike me on principle."

"I believe you may have heard a few things about my capacity to protect my friends," says Stalas.

"Which courtesy you will be extending to me?"

"Yes."

"A good word with the Warden-Commander of Ferelden is also available," his mage companion adds. "But I'll understand completely if Stalas's friendship means more, under the circumstances."

"Blight or no, there are but two of them in Ferelden. And I have no especial desire to join their ranks."

She nods agreeably.

"So. Putting a stop to this. We have twenty-five men, and five mages, including myself. Magister Caladrius is in charge, it is he who will have the proof you seek, most likely on his person."

"Likelihood that I can coax it off him with my renowned personal charm?"

"If you can get to him, maybe. He has no great affection for Loghain. But he will be very resistant to the idea of letting any of the elves go."

"We'll see what happens. Metella, can you find Clare for me? I bet Elissa and Ambrose are busy."

"Should I have Hesta and Kador bring your spare armour?"

"Hmm. Possibly overkill."

He looks at Eliana.

"Any thoughts on the wisdom of going in like so versus going in dressed very convincingly as a golem? You know the personalities and capabilities involved better than I do."

Dressed as a-

Blink.

"If they think you don't have any blood, they will not try to turn it against you. Which is, in my estimation, the main danger."

"Convenient. All right, that's a yes on the armour," he says to Metella. "Off you go."

She nods cheerfully and departs.

"Of course, there will still be others in the vicinity with blood of their own."

"Yes, and in an enclosed space, which is unfortunate."

"Mm. Have you fought a blood mage before?"