"It depends on the clan," Merrill says after a moment, sighing softly. At least Barkley is happy. "In my case... the artifact was considered dangerous because it had been corrupted. In its true form it isn't, unless it's used for something dangerous - but while it was tainted, a member of my clan came across it in a ruin. We never saw him again."

But was fear enough of a reason not to pursue their history? Merrill hadn't thought so. Of course, there was also the part where she had gotten help from a spirit, but- maybe better not to readily bring that up.

She nods, silently agreeing with Iorveth's assessment of the alienage. "I left Kirkwall after the Inquisition moved back here for a while, to check on some of the alienages we had passed through." Among other things, including getting hopelessly lost for a while. "If you haven't been to the others... they're not much better. Or they're worse."

It's good to have Beleth in your corner. Merrill, likewise, isn't afraid of electrocuting anyone who comes near the elves in the alienage.