With a nod to Mary Kirby's "Interview with Loghain." .com/forum/1/topic/47/index/640488&lf=8
This is just a little vignette to get us to the meat (pardon the pun) of the story.
"Good morning, Mistress Malaya," the serving girl smiled brightly as she set down the breakfast tray and moved to pull open the curtains. Sunshine tumbled into the room, chasing the last of the shadows from the corners.
"Good morning, child,' Maly replied, slowly getting out of bed. The girl helped her with her robe and settled her in at the tiny table by the window.
"Cook thought you'd like some pancakes today since she had a special treat come in yesterday."
Maly's nose quivered as she caught a scent that she had missed, "Pancakes and fried nug?"
"Indeed," the serving girl laughed, "And knowing how you eat like a teenage apprentice, she saved you extra."
Maly patted the girl's hand with a smile, "Thank you both, my dear."
The old mage contemplated her meal as the girl swirled around the room, setting it to rights. She chattered like a little bird and the music of her voice rising and falling was a balm to Maly's bruised spirits. She was still shaken from the dreams that had haunted her in the night. Had her friends really thought she hated them? Maly swallowed against a lump in her throat and reached for a piece of the crispy nug. She could not let herself think of it. It was too late for regrets.
"And, I'm supposed to tell you that there's a Grey Warden here to see you, Mistress," the girl's voice interrupted Maly's thoughts. A single silvery brow lifted in response as her mouth was too full to speak.
"He says it's important that he speak with you," the girl's voice lowered as though someone might overhear, "I heard that the First Enchanter got riled when the Warden refused to tell him why he wanted to see you."
"Interesting," Maly leaned back in her chair, another piece of nug idly clasped between two fingers, "Very well. Let the Warden know that I shall meet with him in a candlemark. I'd like a chance to finish eating and to dress."
"Shall I help you?"
"Oh yes, my dear girl," Maly smiled, though it did not reach her eyes, "Yes, I think I will dress especially for this visit."