Chapter Text
Hahren,
The Herald of Andraste isn't a figure from the legends. She doesn't match the carefully designed features of the statues in Val Royeaux. She looks like nothing from a Chantry painting. She is thick and curvy, like many shemlen nobles, her face round with welcome eyes. Her nose is a bit hooked, only a bit, and her eyes are a little small. Her hair is black as onyx and braided tightly into some ridiculous series of knots at the back of her head. Despite things many shemlen may consider imperfections, the package together is attractive, if not a classic beauty, and her perseverance and bravery are what led to my decision to stay.
I understand you sent me to the Conclave to learn what the humans would decide. This war affects us all; there are elves involved, members of their circles and though seth'lin, thin-blooded as some call them, they are still el'lin, our blood. They consider me an apostate, but I would stay and watch out for the interests of our kind. If this path leads to din'an, then so be it. I always questioned too much, poked too many holes in our oral traditions. Please train my younger sister in my stead. I relinquish my position as First.
I fear I am alone on this path.
Dareth atisha,
Erafen Lavellan
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Da'len,
I fear for you, as I feared when I sent you to the Conclave. Your decision to stay is brave, and I will respect it. Please see to it that you send word often by raven, one of the clan's birds. I would know more of this "Herald" and her role, as well as those she keeps close to her. It is the will of our gods that you were not in her place, that you also were not there when so many others died. Indeed, I feared the worst and am relieved to see that you live.
I will do as you request and train Eradahl in your stead. Yes, you questioned, but without challenges, how shall the people grow? Many were uncomfortable with your ideas, including myself, but perhaps this is your chance to learn. Never forget, however, where you came from. Continue as you are. I will do as you say, and pray that the shemlen treat you well and with respect. Remember our love with with you, and you will never be alone.
Ir abelas,
Keeper Deshanna Istimaethoriel Lavellan