He's explained it a bit to me. [ a small frown tilts the corners of his mouth. ] Honestly, the idea of entire planets being part of an empire seems like madness. My world can barely keep a continent out of war with itself for more than a few decades at a time.

[ .. well. and he has to give thedas a break. he doubts many worlds have things like darkspawn and blights to survive.

he glances back up, though, expression easing, the warmth returning. ] I'd be glad to. He's fantastic, honestly. I don't know how I would have managed this place without him. [ despite himself, he finds that his ears are starting to feel a little hot at the points, and he clears his throat, taking the top off his cup and setting it aside, then curling his hands loosely around it for the warmth. ] .. So. You're from the Nexus, then. May I ask where? I'm a little familiar with.. some of the places. Barrayar and Jackson's Whole and.. ah-- [ a beat, then a sheepish glance. ] I'm sure he mentioned other places, but it's a lot to try to remember.