...that's true, I don't have the right to tell him how to feel any more than I could with Asher or Sina. I'm just worried about when that peace will slip away, and what will happen to his state of mind then. [Red lyrium isn't peaceful, and she can only remember the agonized, frenzied faces of the Red Templars as their veins bulged with the substance. That would be Thane someday, wouldn't it?]

I've thought about adding that project before, switching out northern powers. [They have enough people for that, and it's never been her focus the way the naval project has.] If it happens now, you'll know why. I know there's no miracle cure on the horizon, but...if I'm going to dwell on this shit, I might as well do it productively.

[She falls silent for a moment, taking in a deep breath. When she speaks up again, she's a little more centered.] I can listen, and I can try not to lose sleep about it, but I hope to see you making the same effort, kadan. I know you've had your restless nights, too. We can try tackling them one night at a time, together. I want to be there for you, too.