[No, Astarion needs nothing more than this. No power, no greatness. The look that Gale gives him in this moment is everything. If he could capture it, preserve it for centuries, it would warm his heart on even the coldest of nights. He swallows hard against the knot that's built in his throat, reaching up to brush some of the sweat from Gale's cheek with his thumb. When he speaks, his voice is tight and low, a soft, fervent urgency to his words.]

I have never in my life seen anything as beautiful as you are in this moment. That any would have ever made you doubt that is a sin against every god there ever was and ever will be. You are radiant. I've half a mind to think I might burn just from your presence. I love you. You have my heart, all of it.

[As he speaks, his hips roll forward, pressing in to Gale gently, slowly.]