[ Astarion can just catch the deepening color of Gale's cheeks as he gazes over his shoulder. He is looking, and Astarion can't blame him; but as he takes another step down into the bath, submerging to his hips and considering how to respond once Gale answers his question, Gale startles him with another. ]
I've what?
[ Any pretense at slyness or cunning evaporates at the mention of his scars. He twists at the waist to look at Gale, expression stricken. Astarion reaches with one hand behind him, feeling what he can of the raised flesh as he has countless times before, trying to make out the lettering. ]
Can you - can you read it? Can you tell me what it says?
no subject
I've what?
[ Any pretense at slyness or cunning evaporates at the mention of his scars. He twists at the waist to look at Gale, expression stricken. Astarion reaches with one hand behind him, feeling what he can of the raised flesh as he has countless times before, trying to make out the lettering. ]
Can you - can you read it? Can you tell me what it says?