"If he saved his barbs for when we speak privately," Nathaniel answers with a sigh. "And I know I do it too, and it hasn't helped. I think he and I should have a conversation about at least appearing united in front of the other Wardens, and in front of our Inquisition allies. We've both been rather cavalier about that."

He pulls away enough to rest his hands on Anders' waist, his gaze falling away.

"And I didn't...realize how much I've still been comparing myself to people. Competing like Thomas and I used to do. I almost said his name, earlier."