Alistair said it meant a lot, to see it. They're going. Simple as that.

Cullen picks up two sets of rations and instructs the lieutenant and her second that if he and Alistair don't make the rendezvous tomorrow afternoon, to send a bird for reinforcements and then search immediately. We're not anticipating problems, but the area's been unsettled since the Blight, he tells them. They nod, a little grimly.

It's a good sign, that he can say that without any expression. It's good.

Three horses, then: one for each of them, and one for the tent. Cullen's jaw is set as he adjusts the straps on the pack horse.