Regret

After Elara left, silence reigned between the two men. 

Neither one knew how to start. 

Eventually, Alden spoke. 

"You never told me you knew the Keeper." 

Alistair chuckled at the incredulity in his son's tone. 

"It's hardly something that you can just bring up. There was never a reason to, until… now." 

"Is she…" 

The older man hesitated. 

"Okay?"

Alden shook his head. 

"No. She's… dying." 

Alden sighed, ruffling Ignia's feathers. 

He felt duty-bound to break the news to his father. 

Alden glanced towards him, registering the flash of shock and surprise on the man's face.

Then, Alistair's jaw clenched as he processed the news. A storm of emotions brewed in his gaze. Some were too complicated to discern. Others, like deep, heavy sorrow were much easier to glean. 

After a while, the Guildmaster composed himself.

He showed a wistful and slightly pale smile.