He doesn't know why. He can't understand it, for no explanation he tries on fits well around Astarion's shoulders. And yet anyone with eyes can see the need shining in those crimson eyes; anyone with ears could hear how much effort it takes the pale elf to ask for this. His fingers tangle within themselves, nervous as anything— and it's that which decides his answer for him.]
All right. I will.
[And he doesn't ask why. It isn't his business. Whatever ghosts of the past haunt this elf now, they aren't his to know. Perhaps if they continue to travel together, he'll find out someday, but as it stands . . . yes, he can do this.]
I— yes.
[He cuts himself off, offering Astarion a rueful smile. There's no need to get into his own past; there's certainly no need to wax on sentimental. But just so Astarion isn't left hanging, he adds:]
no subject
He doesn't know why. He can't understand it, for no explanation he tries on fits well around Astarion's shoulders. And yet anyone with eyes can see the need shining in those crimson eyes; anyone with ears could hear how much effort it takes the pale elf to ask for this. His fingers tangle within themselves, nervous as anything— and it's that which decides his answer for him.]
All right. I will.
[And he doesn't ask why. It isn't his business. Whatever ghosts of the past haunt this elf now, they aren't his to know. Perhaps if they continue to travel together, he'll find out someday, but as it stands . . . yes, he can do this.]
I— yes.
[He cuts himself off, offering Astarion a rueful smile. There's no need to get into his own past; there's certainly no need to wax on sentimental. But just so Astarion isn't left hanging, he adds:]
Is there anything else?
[A genuine question.]