Alistair/Dialogue

Alistair's dialogue contains a list of the conversations that Alistair shares with the other companions, in which they discuss each other's backgrounds, and their reactions to the game's events. It also contains a list of the conversations he shares with The Warden.

Alistair's remarks

 * (Upon entering Redcliffe Castle Basement for the first time) Alistair: I locked myself in a cage, once, when I was a child. For an entire day. Ahh, good times.

--


 * (Going up the first slope in Haven) Alistair: I’ve never heard of any village out this way. Is this place even on a proper map?
 * (Upon approaching the chantry in Haven) Alistair: You hear that? There’s people in the chantry. The whole town, maybe?
 * (Upon entering Denerim's Market District) Alistair: They say you can get anything here. I once got pick-pocketed.

--


 * (First time heading in to the Ruined Temple) Alistair: Makers breath! Look at it all!
 * (First time entering the Ruined Temple Library) Alistair: Old books. You think any of those might still be readable?
 * (Passing the statue of Archon Hessarian in the Ruined Temple) Alistair: That’s Archon Hessarian, the magister who ordered Andraste burned to death, and then took mercy on Her at the last second.
 * (Passing the statue of Maferath in the Ruined Temple) Alistair: That’s Maferath. Andraste’s husband, and the one who betrayed her to the Imperium.
 * (Passing the bridge puzzle at the Gauntlet) Alistair: Maker's breath...Andraste only favoured the clevers, it seems.
 * (Passing the first lava vent in the Mountainside Caverns) Alistair: We seem to be heading… up? Yes, I think these caves are going up to the surface.

--


 * (Approaching the northern ruins in the East Brecilian Forest) Alistair: Was there a city here, once? Was it built in the forest, or did the forest come later?
 * (After the werewolves retreat into the ruins) Alistair: I think this is it. Werewolf city. Kind of flea heaven, isn’t it?
 * (Descending down the first stairs in Ruins Upper Level) Alistair: Is this an elven place? Did the elves live under ground just like the dwarves?
 * (Hearing the dragon in Ruins Upper Level) Alistair: I think there’s something ahead. Something big.

--


 * (Upon entering Tapster’s Tavern for the first time) Alistair: I tried dwarven ale once. I thought it was just something they tricked surfacers into drinking, as a joke.

Alistair and the Warden
The dialogue options shown here are currently only partial lists and do not include every conversation option. The approval number shown represents the change in approval for that specific conversation option and not for the entire conversation. For the total change in approval add up each option you intend to select.

Ostagar

 * I have a few questions for you.
 * Tell me about Duncan (only appears once)
 * He seems like a kind man, if firm.
 * I owe him, as well. He saved me.
 * I can't say I care for him much.
 * I've no more questions.

Deep in the Wilds

 * Select any one of the four options
 * Who cares what she is? We need to do something now.
 * Then we need to find this archdemon.
 * Any one of the three options
 * Surely there are other allies we could call on.
 * Any one of the four options
 * Any one of the four options
 * Any one of the three options
 * Any one of the three options
 * Any one of the three options
 * I think we should just get underway.


 * Alistair is the real Grey Warden here, not me. (only appears once)
 * Oh, pull it together, will you?

Redcliff

 * What's on your mind?
 * I'm not going to like this, am I?
 * Let me guess: You're an idiot.
 * Ha! That sounds suspiciously like sarcasm. -3
 * It wasn't exactly a secret. -5
 * Spit it out, then. -6
 * Can it wait?
 * You guess so?
 * Spit it out, then. -1
 * I'm not going to like this, am I?
 * Then tell me later. -5


 * What?! You don't think you might have told me this before?
 * So... you're not just a bastard but a royal bastard? +1
 * Doesn't that make you heir to the throne?
 * Why did you wait to tell me this?


 * I think I understand. +2
 * I can't believe you were so stupid! -3
 * You still should have told me.
 * Does Loghain know?


 * Are you sure? You're not hiding anything else?
 * So I should be calling you Prince Alistair? +1
 * You're the heir to the throne, then?
 * Why tell me, then? Why do I need to know?
 * We can use this to our advantage, actually.


 * Aren't you?
 * As you command... my prince.
 * That's not really what you think, is it?
 * And what does that make me?

Lothering
After saving the two dwarves in the north of Lothering and giving Alistair the Small Carved Statuette. Assuming previous conversations have occurred the following becomes available:


 * If you were raised in the Chantry, have you never...?
 * You know what I mean.
 * Now you're making fun of me.
 * I've licked my share of lampposts and then some.
 * So you're a virgin! And you're how old?
 * At least you'll get some decent rest.
 * I'm not telling you.
 * Obviously, the answer is no.
 * You're a coward?
 * Sounds like an excuse.
 * What changes about you after the Joining?
 * You've been a Grey Warden longer than I have.
 * Any of the three options
 * I haven't felt anything like that.
 * Yes, well... {belches} [this is the male Warden's dialogue choice. The female Warden may say: "What can I say? I'm a growing girl."]
 * Either option
 * Any of the three options
 * Any of the three options
 * I never wondered that. I understand.
 * He will be remembered, Alistair. As will the others.
 * Don't avoid the question. I want to know.
 * Any of the three options
 * I haven't felt anything like that.
 * What? Take that back!
 * Either option
 * Any of the three options
 * Any of the three options
 * I feel betrayed. This is wrong.
 * He got what he deserved.
 * What was it like to be a Grey Warden, with all the others?
 * No, I'd like to hear about them.
 * Sounds like you had a lot of fun.
 * I'm sorry. This must be hard for you.
 * Not at all.
 * That's disgusting.
 * Not this again. Aren't you done, yet?
 * It certainly does.
 * You're probably right.

Camp
A dream will occur when you enter the camp site for the first time. Alistair will then initiate the conversation.


 * 1) It seemed so real...
 * 2) Must have been something I ate.
 * 3) Why are you bothering me? I'm fine.


 * 1) The archdemon? Is that the dragon?
 * 2) Why didn't Duncan just tell everyone that?
 * 3) Are these dreams going to happen a lot?


 * 1) I'm not frightened.
 * 2) Any other surprises I should know about?
 * 3) You could have told me earlier.
 * 4) Thank you, Alistair. I appreciate it.

Upon recruiting Morrigan, Leliana, and Sten into your party speak with Alistair again as he asks questions about them. Ensure you have done all other dialogue options with these companions before starting this conversation. If you select "No opinion" or "Lets just move on" you will receive otherwise you get.


 * Time for the juicy gossip, I take it?
 * Very cute. So you know, I'm laughing at you, not with you.
 * Sounds like fun. Ask away!
 * I respect him.
 * He seems to regret what he did.
 * I believe that she believes in her vision.
 * Yes, we have a connection.
 * Any of the four options.
 * You really don't like each other, do you?
 * She and I have a connection.
 * It's none of your business, Alistair.

When you return to camp after completing Castle Redcliffe, if Connor died Alistair will be angry and start an argument. -7 Disapproval from one gentle conversation path.

Idle Conversation
These conversations are not limited by a specific location.

Do you want to talk about Duncan?
 * 1) I just thought you might need to talk.
 * 2) That doesn't mean I don't mourn his loss.
 * 3) He was like a father to you. I understand.
 * 4) Good. I don't want you falling apart again.  (Exits the conversation)


 * 1) No harm done, Alistair.
 * 2) There's no need to apologize.
 * 3) Yes, well, let's forget about it.  (Exits the conversation)
 * 4) Just don't let it happen again.  (Exits the conversation)


 * 1) What about the other Grey Wardens?
 * 2) He had you.
 * 3) No, I understand completely.
 * 4) He saved your life by sending you to the tower.
 * 5) Yes, that is stupid. You'd be dead.
 * 6) That's an excellent idea.
 * 7) I doubt you'll get the chance.  (Exits the conversation)


 * 1) I've lost enough to know what you're going through.
 * 2) My entire family was murdered just recently. (Human Noble)
 * No, not really. Not since I went to the tower. (Circle of Magi - Elf)
 * 1) I'd rather not talk about it, to be honest. (Exits the conversation)


 * 1) Anytime, Alistair.
 * 2) Maybe I'll go with you, when you go.
 * 3) He was a friend of mine, too.
 * 4) Let's get going.

I'd like to ask you something.
 * 1) So couldn't others learn these talents?
 * 2) So Templars use magic themselves? (Repeat Section)
 * 3) Have you hunted mages? (Repeat Section)
 * 4) Seems like the Templars could run the Chantry.


 * 1) So you were addicted to this lyrium?
 * 2) That's horrible! I can't believe they would do that!
 * 3) Sounds like an excellent method of control.

Tell me about the Grey Wardens.
 * 1) Where are the nearest Grey Wardens from here? (Repeat Section)
 * 2) Is there a headquarters somewhere? (Repeat Section)
 * 3) So what happens now that there's just two of us? (Repeat Section)
 * 4) Will we need to start rebuilding the order? (Repeat Section)
 * 5) What would happen if we just left? (Repeat Section)

So how did you become a Grey Warden?
 * 1) I mean before that.
 * 2) Ha ha. Very funny.
 * 3) If you don't want to answer, then say so.
 * 4) Don't be an idiot.
 * 5) Be serious and answer the question.
 * 6) I always suspected as much.
 * 7) Great. Now you're a buffoon?
 * 8) At least your idiocy is endearing.


 * 1) You don't seem like the religious sort.
 * 2) So you mentioned before.
 * 3) What skills might those be?


 * 1) You think Duncan took pity on you?
 * 2) You think this is better than being a templar?
 * 3) Why did the grand cleric want to keep you?


 * 1) I shouldn't have brought him up.
 * 2) I'm sorry.
 * 3) Don't start crying again. Please.
 * 4) He was a good man.

So you said this Arl Eamon raised you? (Unlocks the 'Remaining a Templar' question and a codex entry.)
 * 1) That's not what I remember you telling Flemeth.
 * 2) That would explain the smell.
 * 3) So does a horde of darkspwan, I'm told.
 * 4) I thought the Chantry would have beaten that out of you.
 * 5) Uh-huh. Slobbering dogs. I see.
 * 6) Only ones where the world is threatened by darkspwan.  (Female PC only)
 * 7) Yes. They all involve strangling you.  (Female PC only)
 * 8) Only ones where we're making mad love in my tent.  (Female PC only)
 * 9) Not really no. (Female PC only)
 * 10) I dream of becoming a Grey Warden. Oh, wait.  (Male PC only)
 * 11) Is this going somewhere? (Male PC only)
 * 12) I'm going to hit you. Very soon, now.  (Male PC only)
 * 13) That would explain the breath as well, then.
 * 14) Only ones where the world is threatened by darkspwan.  (Female PC only)
 * 15) Yes. They all involve strangling you.  (Female PC only)
 * 16) Only ones where we're making mad love in my tent.  (Female PC only)
 * 17) Not really no. (Female PC only)
 * 18) I dream of becoming a Grey Warden. Oh, wait.  (Male PC only)
 * 19) Is this going somewhere? (Male PC only)
 * 20) I'm going to hit you. Very soon, now.  (Male PC only)
 * 21) I thought you were raised by the chantry.
 * 22) Really? That must have been tough for them.
 * 23) And these dogs sold you to the Chantry, I take it?
 * 24) That is what they say about Anders.
 * 25) Only ones where the world is threatened by darkspwan.  (Female PC only)
 * 26) Yes. They all involve strangling you.  (Female PC only)
 * 27) Only ones where we're making mad love in my tent.  (Female PC only)
 * 28) Not really no. (Female PC only)
 * 29) I dream of becoming a Grey Warden. Oh, wait.  (Male PC only)
 * 30) Is this going somewhere? (Male PC only)
 * 31) I'm going to hit you. Very soon, now.  (Male PC only)
 * 32) Uh-huh. Raised by flying, devout dogs. I see.
 * 33) So does a horde of darkspwan, I'm told.
 * 34) I thought the Chantry would have beaten that out of you.
 * 35) Uh-huh. Slobbering dogs. I see.
 * 36) Only ones where the world is threatened by darkspwan.  (Female PC only)
 * 37) Yes. They all involve strangling you.  (Female PC only)
 * 38) Only ones where we're making mad love in my tent.  (Female PC only)
 * 39) Not really no. (Female PC only)
 * 40) I dream of becoming a Grey Warden. Oh, wait.  (Male PC only)
 * 41) Is this going somewhere? (Male PC only)
 * 42) I'm going to hit you. Very soon, now.  (Male PC only)
 * 43) That would explain the breath as well, then.
 * 44) Only ones where the world is threatened by darkspwan.  (Female PC only)
 * 45) Yes. They all involve strangling you.  (Female PC only)
 * 46) Only ones where we're making mad love in my tent.  (Female PC only)
 * 47) Not really no. (Female PC only)
 * 48) I dream of becoming a Grey Warden. Oh, wait.  (Male PC only)
 * 49) Is this going somewhere? (Male PC only)
 * 50) I'm going to hit you. Very soon, now.  (Male PC only)


 * 1) Why did he send you off to the Chantry?
 * 2) He wasn't your father? So you know who is?
 * 3) But you blamed him then, I take it?


 * 1) You were probably luckier than most orphans.
 * 2) Wasn't it in appropriate for the arl to raise an orphan?
 * 3) What an awful thing to do to a child.
 * 4) That sounds like a bunch of whining.


 * 1) And you think the arl will help us?
 * 2) Are you sure he isn't your father?
 * 3) You were young.

Can you teach others to be a Templar?
 * 1) Very well, I'll respect your word.
 * 2) You don't think this is important?
 * 3) And what if I ordered you to do it?

Why have you remained a templar if you hate the chantry?
 * 1) I thought Templars wore heavy plate, mostly.
 * 2) Oh? I don't think I've ever seen you wearing it.
 * 3) Not this again. Can't you answer a simple question?


 * 1) And what's the real reason?
 * 2) You had lots of these pillow fights, I take it?
 * 3) So you stay a templar out of sentiment? (Available only when PC replies 'Oh? I don't think I've ever seen you wearing it.' )
 * 4) So this is where you deflect questions with humor, right?
 * 5) Do all Templars make these jokes? Or just you?


 * 1) I do really want to know, yes.
 * 2) Then make up something more exciting.
 * 3) You don't have to tell me, then. I was just curious.  (Exits the conversation)
 * 4) Not if it's going to lead to more of your stupid jokes, no.  (Exits the conversation)


 * 1) What did you enjoy about the training?
 * 2) Enjoyed hunting mages, did you?
 * 3) I think I understand.


 * 1) Not any more, no.
 * 2) My home was taken over by Arl Howe.
 * 3) I guess my home is with the Grey Wardens now. With you.  (Female PC only)
 * 4) Home is wherever camp is. We're travelers now.


 * 1) That's assuming we even survive.
 * 2) They can be rebuilt.
 * 3) You can always keep traveling.
 * 4) This is not the time to think about it.

Has anyone ever told you how handsome you are? (Female PC only)
 * 1) My lips are sealed.
 * 2) Just an observation. Don't get excited. (Exits the conversation)
 * 3) You know you're handsome, Alistair.
 * 4) And if it is? What then? (Exits the conversation)


 * 1) That would be nice.
 * 2) Not unless you don't think so.
 * 3) I'd prefer you didn't.

Alistair and Wynne

 * Alistair: Why are you smiling like that? You look suspiciously like the cat who swallowed the pigeon.
 * Wynne: Canary.
 * Alistair: What?
 * Wynne: I look like the cat that swallowed the canary.
 * Alistair: I once had a very large cat, but that's not my point. My point is why are you smirking?
 * Wynne: (Chuckles) You were watching her. With great interest, I might add. In fact, I believe you were...enraptured.
 * Alistair: She's our leader. I look to her for guidance.
 * Wynne: Oh, I see. So what guidance did you find in those swaying hips hmm?
 * Alistair: No no no, I wasn't looking at...you know her...hind-quarters
 * Wynne: Certainly.
 * Alistair: I gazed...glanced, in that direction, maybe, but I wasn't staring...or really seeing anything even.
 * Wynne: Of course.
 * Alistair: I hate you. You're a bad person.

--


 * Wynne: Alistair, may I have a word?
 * Alistair: Of course, anything for my favouritest mage ever. ("second favorite mage" if warden is a mage)
 * Wynne: It seems you and our fearless leader are inseparable these days. Joined at the hip, almost.
 * Alistair: That's a bit of an overstatement, don't you think?
 * Wynne: Well then, now that you're in an intimate relationship, you should learn about where babies really come from.
 * Alistair: Pardon?
 * Wynne: I know the Chantry says you dream about your babies and the good Fade spirits take them out of the Fade and leave them in your arms...but that's not true. Actually what happens is that when a girl and a boy really love each other --
 * Alistair: Andraste's flaming sword! I know where babies come from!
 * Wynne: Do you? Do you really?
 * Alistair: I certainly hope so.
 * Wynne: Oh, all right then. Aww, look, you're all red and mottled. How cute.
 * Alistair: You did that on purpose!
 * Wynne: Now, now Alistair, why would I do such a thing?
 * Alistair: Because you're wicked. That frail old lady act? I'm so not fooled. I'm on to you now.

--
 * Alistair: Wynne, what would you do if someone told you that they loved you?
 * Wynne: Check their eyesight first, perhaps. Is this someone I should know about?
 * Alistair: No. I mean, pretend you're a woman...
 * Wynne: I am a woman, Alistair. That shouldn't be too hard, but I'll give it a try.
 * Alistair: Ahhh, that's... not what I meant. Just... pretend you're another woman. And someone told you that they loved you. How would you react?
 * Wynne: Well, that depends. Does this someone just blurt it out? Do I love them back? I need context.
 * Alistair: I... I don't know if you love them back. Maybe you do. You've... spent a lot of time with this person.
 * Wynne: Perhaps you need to wait for the right moment? You could get her alone in camp, give her a gift perhaps.
 * Alistair: Oh, I wasn't talking about me... just... forget I said anything.
 * Wynne: (Chuckles) As you wish.

--


 * Alistair: So tell me, you have any children? Grandchildren? I don't know, great grandchildren?
 * Wynne: What would make you think I have any children at all? You have to know I've spent most of my life in the Circle of Magi.
 * Alistair: You just seem like the grandmotherly type to me, I don't know.
 * Wynne: I suppose I'll take that as a comment on my demeanor and not my age.
 * Alistair: Mages aren't forbidden to marry or anything, are they? It's not such an outlandish question.
 * Wynne: Isn't it? What sort of man would marry a mage, do you think?
 * Alistair: How about another mage? There are just as many men as there are women within the Circle, as I recall.
 * Wynne: That sort of union is... not encouraged. Although that does not stop us from seeking out each other's... company from time to time.
 * Alistair: I... all right, suddenly you don't seem quite so grandmotherly to me anymore.
 * Wynne: Good. I would hope not.

--


 * Alistair: You know, of all the mages I've met you have to be the first one I can honestly say I've really liked.
 * Wynne: Why thank you, Alistair. I am quite touched. I like you, too, Alistair. I imagine my son would have grown up to be someone like you.
 * Alistair: Your son? I thought you said you were never married?
 * Wynne: That's true. I never have been.
 * Alistair: I... oh. Then this wasn't... before you joined the circle?
 * Wynne: I joined the Circle at the age of nine. So, no. Do you still like me?
 * Alistair: Err... yes? Why wouldn't I?
 * Wynne: Good. It appears you got away from the Chantry just in time.

--


 * Alistair: So you... mentioned you had a son? What happened to him?
 * Wynne: I honestly don't know, Alistair. He was... taken from me. Such births are seldom, as there are ways to prevent it, but it does happen. And any child born to a Circle mage belongs to the Chantry.
 * Alistair: I... didn't know. I'm sorry.
 * Wynne: It's all right. It was a long time ago. A very long time ago.
 * Alistair: Couldn't you do something about it?
 * Wynne: Do what? I was weak from the birthing process and there were... no, there was nothing I could do.
 * Alistair: Do you think about him?
 * Wynne: All the time.

--


 * Wynne: I think you make her very happy.
 * Alistair: Not this again. I'm ready this time.
 * Wynne: I just wanted to say that this was something good, for both of you. Being a Grey Warden isn't easy. I'm glad you found each other.
 * Alistair: Oh, yes, I bet you are, indeed.
 * Wynne: Cherish this. It may not last.
 * Alistair: And?
 * Wynne: That's all I had to say.
 * Alistair: Really? No pinching my cheeks? No making me blush?
 * Wynne: Of course not. I like you, Alistair. You deserve to be happy.
 * Alistair: Not even pinching my cheeks a little?

--


 * Wynne: Alistair, what's this?
 * Alistair: It's a sock?
 * Wynne: It's a filthy sock. How did it find its way to my bedroll?
 * Alistair: Maybe it likes you? Socks are sneaky like that. Anyway, it's not mine.
 * Wynne: It has your name stitched on it.
 * Alistair: Oh. Ha, ha. Ha. Part of templar training, back at the Chantry. The men were... always getting their socks mixed up. Anyway, uh, sorry about that. I'll take it from you right now. One of my socks is feeling a little damp anyway. A change would be nice.
 * Wynne: You're going to put it on? It's filthy!
 * Alistair: And dry. We're not exactly traveling in the lap of luxury here.
 * Wynne: What hideous habits you've picked up.

--


 * Wynne: Did you speak often with Cailan?
 * Alistair: You're asking me if I have a relationship with my "brother", aren't you?
 * Wynne: Yes. I wonder what he thought of you.
 * Alistair: I don't think he cared much about my existence. I didn't mean anything to him. Anyway, to answer your original question, no, we never spoke. Well, maybe once. Maric and Cailan had come to Redcliffe to visit the arl. I was very young then. We were introduced. I believe I said, "Greetings, your Highness." He said, "Ooh! Swords!" and ran off to the armory. So, yes, that was the extent of our relationship. We drifted apart after that. Very sad.

--


 * Alistair: Wynne?
 * Wynne: Yes, Alistair?
 * Alistair: My shirt has a hole in it.
 * Wynne: I see. And?
 * Alistair: Can you mend it? When we get back to camp?
 * Wynne: Can't you mend your own clothes? Why do I have to do it?
 * Alistair: Sometimes I pick up too much fabric and it ends up all puckered and the entire garment hangs wrong afterward. And you're... you know, grandmotherly. Grandmothers do that sort of thing, don't they? Darning socks and whatnot. You don't want me to have to fight darkspawn in a shirt with a hole, do you? It might get bigger. I might catch cold.
 * Wynne: Oh, all right. I'll mend your shirt the next time we set up camp.
 * Alistair: Ooh! And while you're at it, the elbows kind of need patching too...
 * Wynne: Careful, young man, or puckered garments may be the least of your problems.

--


 * Alistair: Ow.
 * Wynne: What? Stop fussing with it. You'll make it worse.
 * Alistair: It itches.
 * Wynne: Yes, it's healing. Don't touch it.
 * Alistair: But it's distracting. Can I rub it through the bandage? That's not really scratching.
 * Wynne: Alistair, if you open that wound up, I'm not going to heal it again. You can just treat it yourself. And if it festers, weeping bloody pus and burns like the flames of Andraste's pyre, don't come to me. All I'm going to say is: "Alistair, didn't I tell you not to touch it?"
 * Alistair: It won't really fester, will it?
 * Wynne: Why don't you try scratching and see?
 * Alistair: I... uh, I guess it doesn't itch so much now.

--


 * Alistair: So, you... know that I am a Templar, right?
 * Wynne: I believe what I heard was that you were not, in fact, a Templar. You were trained as one before you became a Grey Warden.
 * Alistair: That's right. But I still have... all the abilities of one, of course. That doesn't... make you nervous?
 * Wynne: Should it? I am no apostate. Perhaps you should be directing this question at Morrigan.
 * Alistair: She claims not to be afraid of me... or anything, really. But you've had more experience with the Templars than her. I know how mages can sometimes...
 * Wynne: The Templars serve a function, and a necessary one. If what has happened at the tower proves anything, it is that we mages can be dangerous... even to ourselves.
 * Alistair: That's... one way of looking at it.
 * Wynne: And regardless, you seem like a decent enough young man. If you decide to slaughter me out of hand, I'm sure you would at least inform me first, no?
 * Alistair: Oh, sure... count on it.

Alistair and Morrigan

 * Alistair: So let's talk about your mother.
 * Morrigan: I'd rather talk about your mother.
 * Alistair: There's nothing to talk about. And besides, isn't your mother a scary witch who lives in the middle of a forest? Much more interesting.
 * Morrigan: To you, perhaps. You would find the moss growing upon a stone interesting.
 * Alistair: You know what's more interesting than that? Apostates. Mages outside of the Tower. That's illegal, you know.
 * Morrigan: You did not read that in a book somewhere, did you? I hope the small letters did not strain you overmuch.
 * Alistair: Or we could not talk about your mother. That works for me.

-- --
 * Morrigan: I have a wonder, Alistair, if you will indulge me.
 * Alistair: Do I have a choice?
 * Morrigan: Of the two of you that remain, are you not the senior Grey Warden here? I find it curious that you allow another to lead, while you follow.
 * Alistair: You find that curious, do you?
 * Morrigan: In fact, you defer to a new recruit. Is this a policy of the Grey Wardens? Or simply a personal one?
 * Alistair: What do you want to hear? That I prefer to follow? I do.
 * Morrigan: You sound so very defensive.
 * Alistair: Couldn't you crawl into a bush somewhere and die? That would be great, thanks.
 * Alistair: So tell me something, Morrigan. Did you live there in that forest your entire life?
 * Morrigan: I left it on occasion, but I always returned. Why? Is that so strange? It was my home.
 * Alistair: But it was just you and your mother there? No one else?
 * Morrigan: Mother occasionally had... company.
 * Alistair: What? Company? Do I even want to ask?
 * Morrigan: No. You really don't.

--
 * Alistair: Why do you always go on about how stupid I am? I'm not stupid, am I?
 * Morrigan: If you need to ask the question...
 * Alistair: Because it hurts my manly feelings, you know. All one of them.
 * Morrigan: Then I'll be sure to write you an apology once all of this is over.
 * Alistair: I was educated by the Chantry. I studied history. They don't make stupid templars.
 * Morrigan: Then I must have been mistaken. I'm very impressed.
 * Alistair: No you're not. You're not even listening to me.
 * Morrigan: My, you are smarter than you look after all. Your Chantry must have been very proud.

--

--
 * Morrigan: So I take it you did not enjoy your templar training?
 * Alistair: That's directed at me, I take it?
 * Morrigan: Do you see any others about who have failed at their religious instruction?
 * Alistair: I didn't fail. I was recruited into the Grey Wardens.
 * Morrigan: And if you had not been recruited? What would have happened, instead?
 * Alistair: I would have turned into a drooling lunatic, slaughtered the grand cleric and run through the streets of Denerim in my small clothes, I guess.
 * Morrigan: Your self-awareness does you credit.
 * Alistair: I thought you'd like that.

--
 * Alistair: Soldier's Peak. Looks like it's seen better days. Better centuries more like.
 * Morrigan: Once the Wardens flourished, their ranks full, their calibre certain. Now they even accept people like you, Alistair.
 * Alistair: Hey!

--
 * Morrigan: So you met this sibling of yours?
 * Alistair: Half-sister, but yes.
 * Morrigan: And she turned out to be an insufferable hag?
 * Alistair: You'd have liked her. You two have a lot in common.
 * Morrigan: And you let her berate you? Without punishment?
 * Alistair: It's moments like this when I truly appreciate the difference between you and me.
 * Morrigan: (Scoffs) 'Tis moments like this when I truly wonder at the difference between you and a toadstool.

(Alternate version.) --
 * Morrigan: So you met this sibling of yours?
 * Alistair: Half-sister, but yes.
 * Morrigan: And you made a promise to help her?
 * Alistair: Uh... yes.
 * Morrigan: Why would you do such a thing? This woman is a parasite who will appreciate nothing you do for her, you know this!
 * Alistair: It's moments like this when I truly appreciate the difference between you and me.
 * Morrigan: (Scoffs) 'Tis moments like this when I truly wonder at the difference between you and a toadstool.

--
 * Alistair: So tell me, was the Tower of Magi everything you thought it would be?
 * Morrigan: Abominations running rampant? Templars ready to slaughter every mage in sight? Yes, it rather met all my expectations.
 * Alistair: You don't think you might have been better off getting your training there? Instead of whatever your mother taught you?
 * Morrigan: You're right. My mother didn't nearly have as many abominations running about. That certainly would have improved my education.
 * Alistair: Hmm. I'll give you that one.
 * Morrigan: I'm so relieved.

--
 * Alistair: All right. I've come up with one, a question that you can't answer.
 * Morrigan: Are you talking to me?
 * Alistair: That's right. You think you're so smart? I've got an academic question that I bet you won't be able to answer.
 * Morrigan: Oh, I doubt that.
 * Alistair: So tell me, then: what was the name of Andraste's husband?
 * Morrigan: This is a religious question, not an academic one.
 * Alistair: You're joking, right? A five year-old could answer that question. Do you not know more than a child?
 * Morrigan: I care nothing for your religion. And this game of yours is over.
 * Alistair: Oh, how the mighty have crumbled.

--
 * Morrigan: Have a care where your eyes linger, Alistair.
 * Alistair: Yes, well don't worry. It's not what you think.
 * Morrigan: I see.
 * Alistair: I was looking at your nose.
 * Morrigan: And what is it about my nose that captivates you so?
 * Alistair: I was just thinking that it looks exactly like your mother's.
 * Morrigan: I hate you so much.
 * Alistair: What?
 * Morrigan: Never mind.


 * Morrigan: You... do not truly think I look as my mother does, do you?
 * Alistair: Have you really been thinking about that all this time?
 * Morrigan: I am simply curious.
 * Alistair: And not insecure in the slightest, I'm sure.
 * Morrigan: I think I look nothing like her.
 * Alistair: I don't know. Give it a few hundred years and it'll be a spot-on match.
 * Morrigan: I said that I look nothing like her!
 * Alistair: All right. Got it. Totally different. I see that now.

--

--
 * Alistair: So what's the deal with you and him, anyway? Dare I ask?
 * Morrigan: Him? Him who? Is this supposed to mean something to me?
 * Alistair: You know exactly who I'm talking about. Mister Let's-Make-Kissy-Faces over there.
 * Morrigan: My, my. You are jealous, aren't you? Did I take your favorite Grey Warden away from you?
 * Alistair: What? I'm not jealous! I'm horrified.
 * Morrigan: Those blushing cheeks of yours tell a different tale
 * Alistair: These blushing cheeks are terrified that you'll suck all the blood out of them once you're done with him.
 * Morrigan: If I feel the need to suck on anything of yours, Alistair, you'll be the first to know.
 * Alistair: That... was so not what I meant.
 * Morrigan: Perhaps we should go and tell him together of your touching concerns? Perhaps he'll pay more attention to you if you ask nicely.
 * Alistair: Uh-huh. I think we're done here.
 * Morrigan: Done before you started, in fact.

--
 * Morrigan: I do wonder. Is it permissible for two Grey Wardens to... oh, what is the word I search for?
 * Alistair: Caboodle?
 * Morrigan: Fraternize.
 * Alistair: What's wrong with fraternizing?
 * Morrigan: It seems most undisciplined, for an organization that claims it will do whatever is necessary to end the darkspawn threat.
 * Alistair: One thing has nothing to do with the other.
 * Morrigan: Oh no? And what if a Grey Warden has forced to choose between the Warden he loved and ending the Blight? What should his choice be?
 * Alistair: That is a... a ridiculous question.
 * Morrigan: And I have my answer. Most kind of you.

(After Female Character ends romance with Alistair.)
 * Morrigan: So am I to understand that you two have ended your relationship?
 * Alistair: Shut up! That is none of your business.
 * Morrigan: What? No questions allowed? You do not wish your motivations-
 * Alistair: I said shut up! I will run this sword through you, I'm not joking.
 * Morrigan: Oh, I see. Most serious then.
 * Alistair: This discussion is over.

Alistair and Leliana
-- --
 * Leliana: What was that... soup you made for supper last night?
 * Alistair: Ooh, that? That's a traditional Fereldan lamb and pea stew. Did you like it?
 * Leliana: Oh, so... it was lamb then? It had a certain... texture I don't normally associate with lamb.
 * Alistair: They didn't make lamb and pea stew for you in Lothering?
 * Leliana: We ate simply there. Whole grains, made into biscuits or bread, and vegetables from the garden, cooked lightly. No heavy stews.
 * Alistair: Ah, so the last lamb you had was probably cooked Orlesian style. Food shouldn't be frilly and pretentious like that. Now here in Ferelden, we do things right. We take our ingredients, throw them into the largest pot we can find, and cook them for as long as possible until everything is a uniform grey color. As soon as it looks completely bland and unappetizing, that's when I know it's done.
 * Leliana: You're having me on.
 * Alistair: (Laughs) You need to eat in more Fereldan inns.
 * Alistair: So... let me get this straight. You were a cloistered sister?
 * Leliana: You must have been a brother before you became a templar, no?
 * Alistair: I never actually became a templar. I was recruited into the Grey Wardens before I took my final vows.
 * Leliana: Do you ever regret leaving the Chantry?
 * Alistair: No, never. Do you?
 * Leliana: Yes. You may not believe it, but I found peace there. The kind of peace I've never known.
 * Alistair: It used to get so quiet at the monastery that I would start screaming until one of the brothers came running. I would tell them that I was just checking. You never know, right?
 * Leliana: I... no, I never did anything like that. I enjoyed the quiet.
 * Alistair: Suit yourself. The look on their face was always priceless.
 * Alistair: So what do you think will happen to all those people we left behind in Lothering?
 * Leliana: Some of them will find their way to Denerim. Many will die. As the Maker wills.
 * Alistair: Don't you wish you could have stayed there? To help more people, I mean?
 * Leliana: If the Blight isn't stopped, everyone will die. This is the greater good we're serving, both of us, right here.
 * Alistair: So it's all right to let some people die for the greater good? I... I'm not so sure about that. I felt bad leaving all those people there, all panicked and helpless.
 * Leliana: You're doing what you must, Alistair. There will be worse to come yet... you will need to steel yourself, you know this.
 * Alistair: I've never been very good at that. The steeling myself part. I find it better sometimes to just be a little weak. I'm all right with that, really.
 * Leliana: I don't believe you. And either way, it's not as if any of us has a choice.

--


 * Alistair: So have you heard? Morrigan and him are... you know.
 * Leliana: Have you nothing better to do than to spread idle gossip? And besides, he can probably hear us both. You're not being very discreet.
 * Alistair: No, look, he's not even paying attention.
 * Leliana: Hmmm. maybe. You don't... think that he's serious about it, do you? The woman is a vile fiend.
 * Alistair: Well, look here, now who's an idle gossip? Me-ow!
 * Leliana: You're the one who started this, I might remind you. And I'm... well, I'm ending it!

--

-- --
 * Alistair: So... you're female, Leliana, right?
 * Leliana: I am? That's news. When did that happen?
 * Alistair: I just wanted some advice. What should I do if... if I think a woman is special and--
 * Leliana: You want to woo her? Here's a good tip: you shouldn't question her about her female-ness.
 * Alistair: All right, yes. Good point.
 * Leliana: Why do you ask? Are you afraid things will not proceed naturally?
 * Alistair: Why would they? Especially when I do things like ask women if they're female.
 * Leliana: It adds to your charm, Alistair. You are a little awkward. It is endearing.
 * Alistair: So I should be awkward? Didn't you just say not to do things like that?
 * Leliana: Just be yourself. You do know how to do that, don't you?
 * Alistair: All right, forget I asked.
 * Alistair: You know, I've heard about the Orlesian bards.
 * Leliana: Who hasn't? They're quite famous, after all.
 * Alistair: The stories I heard were a little... racier. It had to do with how a bard assassinated her target. How they were... lulled into complacency.
 * Leliana: If those stories were true, who would ever agree to entertain a bard in their court?
 * Alistair: Oh, I don't know, there's a certain allure to danger, isn't there? And besides, you couldn't all be assassins, could you? I'd take my chances. If the stories were true, that is.
 * Leliana: We had rules about that sort of thing. Strict rules.
 * Alistair: Such as? You're not going to tell me, are you?
 * Leliana: Let's just say I had plenty of reasons to join the Chantry, shall we? And leave it at that.
 * Alistair: So... this thing you and him have going? Doesn't that violate your vows?
 * Leliana: What? What kind of question is that to just blurt out? What do we "have going"?
 * Alistair: Yes, I'm that blind. I so totally did not see you ogling each other before.
 * Leliana: He was not ogling me. Was he? Was he really ogling me?
 * Alistair: Now that you say it, I'm not sure. Maybe he wasn't ogling you. I don't know... I could always ask him...
 * Leliana: You can't do that! Could you? You couldn't do that...
 * Alistair: I could. But I won't. Next thing you'll have me pulling his hair and passing him love letters.
 * Leliana: I... just mind your own business. How inappropriate!

--

-- --
 * Leliana: There are many great tales of lost kings who return to their lands to reign in glory...
 * Alistair: I am not lost. Nor, for that matter, a king. And there is nothing glorious about me.
 * Leliana: You are Maric's son; you are the rightful king of Ferelden.
 * Alistair: I am the son of a star-struck maid and an indiscreet man who just happened to be king. Look, I can't be king. Some days I have trouble figuring out which boot goes on which foot.
 * Leliana: Complete fools are made leaders of kingdoms all the time, and you're not a complete fool.
 * Alistair: What an utter relief.
 * Leliana: And don't worry about the boots. Kings don't need to dress themselves. That's what advisors are for, isn't it?
 * Alistair: And star-struck maids, apparently.
 * Alistair: I will never get over how quietly you are able to move.
 * Leliana: It took me years and years to learn and even then I am not the best at it.
 * Alistair: So you didn't sneak around when spying?
 * Leliana: We all had different ways of doing things. Some preferred not to be seen at all, to cloak themselves in shadow and darkness. I realized that it is not such a bad thing to be seen, as long as you do not stand out and are quickly forgotten. I specialized in blending in, not drawing attention and looking like I had every right to be there. It is invisibility, but of another kind.
 * Alistair: Ah, yes, but I heard you often seduced your targets. They'd remember you.
 * Leliana: Not if they died...
 * Alistair: Oh.
 * Leliana: Dying while in the company of a lovely seductress... tell me that isn't a good death.
 * Alistair: I don't know if I should take you seriously... but you scare me sometimes.
 * Alistair: So I'm wondering something... what exactly does a woman see in a man like Zevran?
 * Leliana: Oh, he's handsome enough for some. Why do you ask?
 * Alistair: No reason. It's just... doesn't he seem to be a bit too much? The hair, the clothing...
 * Leliana: I don't understand. A bit too much what? Do you have a problem with him?
 * Alistair: Beyond the fact that he's an assassin who's tried to kill us more than once. No... no, not really. Do women go for that sort of thing?
 * Leliana: Where I come from they do, oh yes.
 * Alistair: Huh. Really? I see.

Alistair and Oghren
--
 * Oghren: So. With the boss, aye?
 * Alistair: Pardon?
 * Oghren: You and the boss. Rolling your oats.
 * Alistair: I don't know--
 * Oghren: Polishing the footstones.
 * Alistair: --what you're--
 * Oghren: Tapping the midnight still, if you will.
 * Alistair: What are you going on about?
 * Oghren: Forging the moaning statue. Bucking the forbidden horse. Donning the velvet hat.
 * Alistair: Are you just making these up right now?
 * Oghren: Nope. Been saving 'em.

--
 * Oghren: You know what would do you some good?
 * Alistair: A pair of nose plugs?
 * Oghren: Go out, find a girl. Doesn't matter who, as long as there's no pants involved.
 * Alistair: What makes you think I haven't?
 * Oghren: I can smell purity a mile away. It's a talent.
 * Alistair: That proves to be useful, I'm sure.
 * Oghren: Not that often, it turns out. Be much better if I could smell cheese.
 * Alistair: You have my deepest condolences.
 * Oghren: Yep. So do you.

--
 * Oghren: So, uh, what did you do with her legs?
 * Alistair: Whose legs?
 * Oghren: Her legs. That's the problem with dwarven legs. They're useless as an accessory.
 * Alistair: I didn't do anything with them. I don't know what--
 * Oghren: Ah, say no more. Just got 'em outta the way and went about your business. Good on you, son.
 * Alistair: Uhm. Thanks.

--
 * Alistair: So you and Branka were really married?
 * Oghren: Tell you what, boy: you ever been married?
 * Alistair: Of course not. I was raised in the Chantry.
 * Oghren: Thank the hardest stone you can find. Marriage is for suckers.
 * Alistair: So no pitter-patter of little Oghren feet running around the home cave, I take it?
 * Oghren: All I ever got out of that moss-licker was a headache, a deaf ear, a scratched-up back and that rash it took three different ointments to get rid of.
 * Alistair: Wow, she gave up on you, did she? And here you are, a keeper, too.

--
 * Alistair: What? You're... you're drunk, aren't you?
 * Oghren: Eh? Was that a question? It didn't sound like a question.
 * Alistair: How in the Maker's name do you manage to be constantly drunk? Are we even carrying that much alcohol with us?
 * Oghren: Jealous, huh? (Laughs)
 * Alistair: A little, yes. Why can't I be drunk all the time? I never get to be drunk.
 * Oghren: You know, if you drank more wine, you would whine much less.

--
 * Alistair: So... that game you were playing in camp, what was that?
 * Oghren: Diamondback. You've never played Diamondback, have you?
 * Alistair: That's Diamondback? I've... heard of it. I thought it was a card game played by dwarven... er...
 * Oghren: Go on, say it. Prostitutes. It's not true, of course.
 * Alistair: It's not?
 * Oghren: Of course not. A noble hunter never charges money. Not if she wants to see him again, that is. Never saw one turn down from a gift, though.
 * Alistair: Err... what does that have to do with card games?
 * Oghren: Even a noble hunter can get bored. Tell you what, don't ever bet your clothes. They'll strip you clean and leave you naked in the street, trust me.
 * Alistair: I'll... take your word on it.


 * Oghren: Ah. Yep. Lot of tension around here.
 * Alistair: You think so, do you?
 * Oghren: Know what I do to relieve tension?
 * Alistair: I hesitate to wonder.
 * Oghren: I polish the ol' weapon.
 * Alistair: Really.
 * Oghren: Yep. Give it a good shine. With a dry rag, then with a little grease.
 * Alistair: That's disgusting.
 * Oghren: You're telling me you never gave yer blade the old spit-shine?
 * Alistair: I think that's private.
 * Oghren: Really? Sodding Chantry and its rules. I like to do it right out in the open.
 * Alistair: Where people can see you?
 * Oghren: Yep.
 * Alistair: Wait, what are you talking about?
 * Oghren: What are you talking about?
 * Alistair: (Sigh) Never mind.

Alistair and Zevran
--
 * Zevran: Might I offer you a bit of advice, my good friend Alistair?
 * Alistair: I like my hair the way it is, thank you.
 * Zevran: Truly? As you wish... though my advice is regarding something else completely. It has to do with your recent... exertions with your fellow Grey Warden that I overheard.
 * Alistair: My...? Oh.
 * Zevran: It did seem as if you just got going when all grew quiet. You are... feeling all right, yes? Perhaps you are tired?
 * Alistair: We aren't talking about this, are we? Did I hit my head?
 * Zevran: I have some roots from home that you may chew if you need energy. As for volume, perhaps you ought to try arching your--
 * Alistair: Whoa! Whoa! Awkward!
 * Zevran: You Fereldans are so finicky. How will you ever learn how to pleasure each other unless you talk about it?
 * Alistair: Not listening! La la la la la!

--
 * Zevran: You know, Alistair, Antiva has a long tradition of royal bastards.
 * Alistair: You don't say?
 * Zevran: Oh, yes. They've led wars to claim the throne. Some of them have become kings. In fact, I'd say the current royal line in Antiva stems from bastard blood several times over.
 * Alistair: Well aren't you just chock full of useless trivia today.
 * Zevran: Sadly, whenever a royal bastard rears their head in public and declares themselves, it often goes poorly for them.
 * Alistair: Let me guess: they get assassinated?
 * Zevran: Only the very popular ones.
 * Alistair: And the unpopular ones?
 * Zevran: Well, they get by somehow, I'm sure. There was one fellow who did quite well working as a prostitute based on his uncanny resemblance to the king. Charged a fortune.
 * Alistair: Couldn't afford him, I take it?
 * Zevran: That cynicism will serve you well, my friend. Hold onto it.

--
 * Zevran: So are you a very religious man, Alistair? I am curious. I believe I heard you say you were raised in an abbey?
 * Alistair: I was raised in a castle. I was schooled in the abbey. As far as being religious... I don't know. Not especially. What about you? Not in your line of work, I expect.
 * Zevran: Why do you say that? I happen to be quite devoted, in my way, as most Antivans are.
 * Alistair: Truly? But you kill people. For money.
 * Zevran: And I ask forgiveness for my sins from the Maker every chance I get. What manner of monster do you think I am?
 * Alistair: But... you ask forgiveness and then you go right on with your sinning?
 * Zevran: The Maker has never objected. Why should you?
 * Alistair: I... have no idea.
 * Zevran: Well there you go. Perhaps you ought to think about asking for a little forgiveness yourself, hm?

--
 * Alistair: So I have a question for you, Zevran. You're here, at least in part, to get away from the Crows, right?
 * Zevran: That is indeed true.
 * Alistair: So when this is over, what do you intend to do with yourself? You can't go back to Antiva, I assume.
 * Zevran: What I do depends in large part upon your fellow Grey Warden. I am not a free man, as it were.
 * Alistair: Yes, yes, but what if you could do whatever you wanted?
 * Zevran: Oh, I don't know. Aren't you going to be king? Perhaps you have people you need killed?
 * Alistair: I probably do, yes.
 * Zevran: See? It's that sort of thinking that makes me think I have a future in this fine country of yours.
 * Alistair: That's assuming I would hire you.
 * Zevran: That's the lovely thing about kings. They make for good business, as the client or the target.
 * Alistair: And people wonder why someone might not want to be king.

--
 * Alistair: So why would the Crows send you, Zevran?
 * Zevran: Is there some reason why they should not?
 * Alistair: Plenty of reasons. Starting with the fact that you weren't exactly the best they had, were you?
 * Zevran: Slandar and lies. For shame, Alistair.
 * Alistair: I'm not an idiot. Well, not most of the time. You're no raw recruit, but I've seen you fight. You're no master of combat, by any means.
 * Zevran: Assuming that I intended a fair fight, that would indeed be a problem.
 * Alistair: But the Crows must have master assassins, the way you describe them. Men with years and years of experience. Why not send them?
 * Zevran: Why not, indeed? It is a mystery for the ages.
 * Alistair: Oh, I get it. You're not going to tell me.
 * Zevran: Morrigan said you were sharp. No liar, she.


 * Zevran: Still with the stern glances, Alistair?
 * Alistair: You didn't answer my question. About why the Crows wouldn't send their best man.
 * Zevran: So for that I must suffer all these fearsome glares? You are cruel to subject me to such torture.
 * Alistair: If you aren't telling me, there must be a reason.
 * Zevran: If you must know, the masters do not often take contracts outside Antiva. And I made the best bid.
 * Alistair: Best bid?
 * Zevran: We agree to pay the guild a portion of whatever the contract offers. The one who agrees to pay the most gets the contract, so long as the guild deems them worthy.
 * Alistair: And they thought you were worthy?
 * Zevran: Against a pair of Grey Warden recruits? Apparently so.
 * Alistair: Were there many who wanted the contract?
 * Zevran: None. You are still Grey Wardens, after all, and even in Antiva, killing members of your order is considered... impolitic. It made the guild's decision considerably easier, I imagine.
 * Alistair: Well, that's comforting, somehow.

Alistair and Shale
--
 * Shale: It has become very close with the other Grey Warden.
 * Alistair: Uh...yes, I suppose I have at that.
 * Shale: I find this difficult to comprehend. It is whiny and weak and constantly laughing.
 * Alistair: Then I guess a romance between you and I is completely out of the question?
 * Shale: And the attempts at humor. I cannot understand how it is endured.
 * Alistair: Well maybe you should ask her why she likes me so much instead of bothering me with it.
 * Shale: It has a loud mouth. Why its head has not been crushed already is hard to imagine.
 * Alistair: Or maybe you just happen to figure she likes me a lot more than she likes you.
 * Shale: Don't be foolish.
 * Alistair: Yes, I thought so. Just watch your step or I'm totally telling.
 * Shale: I'm going to stand over here now.

--
 * Shale: I find it very odd.
 * Alistair: "It" meaning me? Am I an "it," now, too? I feel honored.
 * Shale: For one who professes to be a warrior, I find it remarkably weak-willed and indecisive.
 * Alistair: Er... thank you?
 * Shale: It also likes to hide its many weaknesses behind a veil of jocularity.
 * Alistair: For a statue, you know a lot of big words.
 * Shale: Is there a reason it enjoys following others so much? Especially when it is in a position to lead?
 * Alistair: Have you ever been responsible for someone else's life? Or a lot of other lives? Or an entire nation?
 * Shale: Of course not.
 * Alistair: Then... shut... up.
 * Shale: I will remember this moment when the birds come.

--
 * Shale: I am told that it lost a large number of comrades in the battle with the darkspawn.
 * Alistair: Me? I guess I did, yes. I didn't know all of them that well, however. Mostly just Duncan.
 * Shale: I am unfamiliar with this name.
 * Alistair: It's... it's not important. You don't need to know who he was.
 * Shale: I cannot remember if I ever had anyone important to me. All I remember is being given orders.
 * Alistair: I would gladly be following Duncan's orders right now, if I could.
 * Shale: It enjoys following others? I find that odd.
 * Alistair: You wouldn't understand. Don't worry. I don't expect you to.

--
 * Alistair: So, Shale... when you were standing there all that time? Did you... sleep?
 * Shale: I have no need to sleep. My body does not tire or do -- ugh -- other flesh-related functions.
 * Alistair: But don't you get bored? Wouldn't you want to dream, at least?
 * Shale: I do not dream. This is what it does when it sleeps? It paws its nose and mumbles incoherently.
 * Alistair: Yes, of course. I thought we all -- huh... you watch me?
 * Shale: I watch all closely when they are still at night. There is little else to do.
 * Alistair: For... hours and hours?
 * Shale: I count the breaths. it helps to overcome the overwhelming urge to crush their faces while they sleep.
 * Alistair: Well. I won't be doing much of that anymore.

--
 * Alistair: So tell me something... do you feel pain? When you get hit in combat?
 * Shale: This is when it squeals loudly and spurts blood about? This is when it feels pain?
 * Alistair: Uh... maybe? I've seen you take some bad hits. Don't you feel anything?
 * Shale: Anger. Rage, even. Perhaps a little distress. Is this pain?
 * Alistair: I'm not sure. I don't think I'd call it distress, exactly. It's more... (screaming)
 * Shale: For me, it is more... (pained growl)
 * Alistair: That sounds more like a bowel movement. I mean that sharp, stabbing... (screams) Like that?
 * Shale: No. Nothing like that.
 * Alistair: No? Huh. Good to know.


 * Alistair: So do you ever want to go back?
 * Shale: To Honnleath? Perhaps it should stare at a patch of grass for thirty years and then tell me how much it misses it.
 * Alistair: Point taken. Still, if you can't remember anything else ever... it would be scary to leave, I'd think.
 * Shale: Fortunately, I am not as comfortable with the mundane and familiar as some.
 * Alistair: Ooh, ow. Ow! Sort of an adventurer, I see. Brave new world, that sort of thing?
 * Shale: And instead, I should be content to remain in that village, standing still out of fear of the unknown? What life is that? I know what I am, now. I know how I was made. I can move forward. It who has had so much more should do half as well.
 * Alistair: Um. Thanks for that. I feel... really good, now.
 * Shale: A pleasure. Next time, we shall speak of its grammar and personal hygiene.

--


 * Shale: So it has become king after all, yes?
 * Alistair: It looks that way.
 * Shale: Is this not a good thing? This is a position of importance, no? Did it not want to be king?
 * Alistair: Not really, no. We don't always get what we want, however, do we?
 * Shale: If I were king, I would order that all birds be shot out of the sky. I would arm everyone with bows and put them on constant vigil.
 * Alistair: Well, let's be glad you're not king, then.
 * Shale: I suspect it thinks that would be a pointless endeavor. But it would be wrong.
 * Alistair: Ummm, right... just as an aside? This bird fixation? Creepy.

--


 * Alistair: So this... "bird thing" of yours.
 * Shale: I do not have a "bird thing." I have an extremely justified rage of the flying vermin that plague this world.
 * Alistair: But there are some birds that are useful. Like the ones you eat!
 * Shale: I approve of the ritual slaying of the foul beasts, but--it eats one? Disgusting.
 * Alistair: They're really quite tasty. you just need to rip off the feathers, first. I like the skin, myself.
 * Shale: I... think I am going to be sick...
 * Alistair: Ooh! Golem vomit! This I have to see!

Alistair and Sten

 * Alistair: Don't you ever talk? You know, make polite conversation just to put people at ease?
 * Sten: You mean that I should remark upon the weather before I cut off a man's head?
 * Alistair: ... Nevermind.

-- --
 * Alistair: Were you really in that cage for twenty days?
 * Sten: It might have been closer to thirty. I stopped counting after a while.
 * Alistair: What did you do? I mean... twenty days is a long time to sit in one place and do nothing.
 * Sten: On good days, I posed riddles to the passersby, offering them treasures in exchange for correct answers.
 * Alistair: Really?
 * Sten: No.
 * Alistair: Awww. Too bad. That's got serious potential.

--
 * Alistair: You know, you never did tell me how you passed the time in that cage for so long.
 * Sten: No, I didn't.
 * Alistair: So... what did you do in there?
 * Sten: A training exercise. I would observe an object and then try to think of all the words in your language which began with the same letter as its name.
 * Alistair: That... wait. Just wait. You're joking again, aren't you?
 * Sten: No.
 * Alistair: You are not telling me that you played, "I Spy," against yourself for twenty days.
 * Sten: There are a lot of things in Lothering that begin with, "G."

--
 * Alistair: Hmmm... I spy with my little eye, something that begins with... "G."
 * Sten: Is it a Grey Warden? Is it, in fact, you?
 * Ailstair: Oooh. You're really good at this.
 * Sten: (Sigh)


 * Sten: Draw your weapon.
 * Alistair: Are you talking to me?
 * Sten: Your weapon. Draw it.
 * Alistair: Why? Are we under attack?
 * Sten: I want to see what you can do.
 * Alistair: You want to fight me? Just like that?
 * Sten: You are a Grey Warden. How are you going to face an archdemon if you cannot face me?
 * Alistair: It is a mystery, I'll admit.
 * Sten: I should let your weakness damn us all? Draw your sword. I'll try not to injure you permanently.
 * Alistair: I don't have to prove anything to you. Forget it.
 * Sten: So you do have a spine. Pity you don't use it.

Alistair and Dog
--
 * Alistair: Just how smart are mabari supposed to be, anyway? Do you think they understand everything we say?
 * Dog: (Conversational barking)
 * Alistair: Oh, is that so? You could just be listening to the tone of my voice. You could be an utter moron, for all we know.
 * Dog: (Angry growl)
 * Alistair: Hey, now. There's nothing saying that a moron can't be cute and adorable. Who's the cute and adorable puppy?
 * Dog: (Happy Barking)
 * Alistair: Ignorance is bliss, isn't it? That's what the Chantry kept telling me, anyhow.


 * Alistair: Do you really know what's going on here? The Blight, the civil war... I really wonder how much of it you understand.
 * Dog: (He wags tail happily.)
 * Alistair: We're all special... big parts to play. Even you. Especially you, in some ways. You are the mabari. You guard one of the most important people--
 * Dog: (Excited Bark)
 * Alistair: What?
 * Dog: (Excited barking!)
 * Alistair: You... you want to play? But I'm talking. Why doesn't anyone want to hear me talk?