[ Now that Astarion has slowed the pace, Gale waits for him to decide the direction of this encounter. He doesnβt expect surprise, of all things, to loosen his features. It takes everything in him to leave this knot tangled, since he has no business tugging those threads. Some puzzles arenβt for just anyone to solve. ]
Yes, we can. [ His gaze drops to their hands. Nothing would indicate this is about him, exactly, with Astarionβs touch light but steady. In sotto voce, ] Do you want me to leave for the night? [ an important time qualifier, suggestive of his intent to return. ]
I could stay for bit β without talking, [ A grimace, admitting silence isnβt his forte. ] or doing much of anything. [ He slips both hands free and splays them flat against the ground, as proof of concept. ] But only if you wish it.
no subject
Yes, we can. [ His gaze drops to their hands. Nothing would indicate this is about him, exactly, with Astarionβs touch light but steady. In sotto voce, ] Do you want me to leave for the night? [ an important time qualifier, suggestive of his intent to return. ]
I could stay for bit β without talking, [ A grimace, admitting silence isnβt his forte. ] or doing much of anything. [ He slips both hands free and splays them flat against the ground, as proof of concept. ] But only if you wish it.