"Kirkwall will become a rally cry for both sides," he muses, his voice more subdued. "No one is right here. It shouldn't fall on you for the failure of your superior to stop this."

Cullen might not want it but Dorian will defend him if it comes to it. The man has done an admirable job as a leader and kept everyone together when it was more likely everyone would fall apart.

"You've held this city together and don't doubt that the people have noticed," he says, hoping to encourage him. "You're doing a damn fine job and though tonight was not spectacular that doesn't mean you've failed anyone."