"Oh, absolutely. I'm Dalish -- we know all about stories that have been blown widely out of proportion, both about ourselves and about humans. And Templars." But it's a factual statement, not meant to barb, and Merrill flashes him another smile.

That there may be rumors is worrying, but more for him than to Merrill herself. There's a slight hum of thought, and then- "If I hear anything concerning, I'll ask you. Then I can hear the truth from you, instead. Would that work?"

Merrill, you just met him five minutes ago.