"We've been seeing darkspawn with red lyrium deposits embedded in them," Ellis says, the prickling discomfort of having this discussion with a mage rather than a Warden needling up and down his neck as he speaks. "With more frequency, I believe."

It's easy to see what's motivated the conversation. Ellis' voice is steady, but the seriousness of the subject has colored over his expression.

"Is it something you're looking into?"