[He's bristling now, not sure where his anger and Justice's drive meet, wondering if Justice's anger is in the mix too, and that's part of this whole delicate situation. He starting to worry about where the line is, if he's slipping more, losing more. Not only that, there's injured pride here too. If he's never seen to be doing anything, opinion will never change. Why had it been so much easier to choose to die for a cause than do this?

Anders takes a breath, and then another, focusing. This whole overflow of emotions started when Karl was brought into it, and it's really no surprise that he's still irrational when it comes to that.]

There's so much wrong, [he finally says.]

There's so much to work on, and there may be so little time. I don't think you've not been working. I think you've been in the minority. I also think that anyone who scorns the mages of the Inquisition for my proximity is an idiot, as Vivienne is also here and no one would see her as about to work with me, and idiots aren't worth the time of day.

[Another breath.]

I have to do something. And as I am watched by nearly everyone, what I do will have my name associated with it. There is no changing that.

[He looks up now, feeling more in control. They are not talking Karl. This isn't about him, his loss.]

It is nearly impossible for me to work from the shadows. Every book I borrow, every person I speak with, is noted. And if I try to hide what I'm doing, it will be all the more difficult for any progress to be made as suspicion will grow.

If you've an idea for a practical, open approach, I'd appreciate it.