"It sounds more like most of Thedas was content to stifle magic than encourage its growth," Hermione notes after a moment's hesitation. "Which is silly, especially considering what they stand to gain by working with magic. But I suppose the connection mages have to the Fade is reason enough for them to be wary, at least in their minds."

If she hadn't only met Kain a few minutes earlier, Hermione might have simply hugged him for his response, glad that he's being receptive to opening up. As it is, she only grinds and gives him an enthusiastic nod, saying, "Then we're friends. And I look forward to sitting with you as we research the strange new world we've ended up in."