🔮 exsanguinated (with @sangwhine)

[mystracal]

tfln | invitations | and there was only one bed | undermountain alurlyath | what could be | blood bond | the price of freedom
it wore his face | dinner with morena dekarios | rediscovery

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[sangwhine]

And I won't have this evening ruined by—

[He bites off his words before he can say the name. It isn't Gale's name that's on his lips, he reminds himself. Gale doesn't deserve this anger, this hurt. He swallows again, some of the tension bleeding from his body as he looks down to the angry red crescents he's dug into the palm of his hand.]

I want this to go well, Gale. I don't want what she'll think of me if I steal you away from her right now.

[mystracal]

[Gale's eyes trail downward, landing on Astarion's other palm; he pulls in a breath, stifling the urge to keep arguing.]

All right. But promise to talk to me when we get home.

[sangwhine]

[Astarion curls that hand closed, reaching over to gently pat Gale's wrist in reassurance.]

When we return, you may dote upon me to your heart's content. I promise.

[mystracal]

I will be taking you up on that.

[His eyes flick upward as he hears his mother's footsteps; Morena brushes her hair back into place with her fingers as she steps into the room, setting a fresh glass of water for Astarion down before standing beside the table.]

I just wanted to apologize, Astarion. To you both, but especially to you, and sincerely. I am sorry. You've been nothing but a gentleman since you arrived, and it's clear you and my Gale are sweet on one another. I was just... surprised at the news, how sudden it is. Sudden enough for a human, much less someone as long-lived as your sort.

[sangwhine]

[Astarion turns to Morena on her return, his facade recovered, at least somewhat, though he doesn't release Gale's hand from his hold.]

My dear, there's no need for such an apology. You were only—acting as a mother should. In Gale's best interests. Honestly, it might have been more worrisome if you had simply agreed to the whole affair at face value without concern for my intentions for your son.

[He pauses a moment, turning his gaze away to look to the table, the water, his fingertips running softly against the already-knitting flesh of his self-inflicted wounds. He takes a breath before he speaks, not making eye contact with either of them, his voice considerably more measured than his earlier beguiling attempts.]

To be truthful, my nerves were perhaps a bit on edge at the worry that you might not approve of my place in Gale's life. The thought that my worry was not entirely unfounded seems to have hit upon an unpleasant memory. Drew it to the surface. But it was poor form of me to read such ill-intent into your concern.

[mystracal]

[Gale gives Astarion's hand a squeeze, running his thumb along his pale knuckles as he explains - and with more honesty than he'd anticipated.]

You're both important beyond measure, and that you both care so much for my well-being, is... touching. Truly. Overwhelmingly and undeservedly so.

[Morena casts her eyes from Astarion to Gale, and back again.]

You can see why I worry now, can't you? When he says things like that?

[sangwhine]

[Astarion gives a sigh, releasing Gale's hand so that he can tuck a stray hair behind his ear, letting his fingers trail along his jaw just a touch as his hand moves away.]

Dearest, how many times must I remind you that you are well and fully deserving of our care and love, hm?

[He turns to Morena with a smile that is far more settled now.]

Rest assured, I am doing everything in my power to train him out of it.

[mystracal]

He's a stubborn thing once he has his mind on something, for better and for worse.

[Gale brushes his hair behind the the other ear, his earring brushing against his palm, as he swallows down a bite.]

While I am unlearning that unfortunate habit, I insist my mistakes not be ignored. They've done wonders when it comes to humbling me, something I assure you needed to happen.

[It's Gale who Morena casts with a stern look this time.]

Sweetness, there's dispelling your pride, and then there's selling yourself short because you've been made to feel small. You have such an incredible gift. You know it, I know it, and I'm willing to bet Astarion knows it. However, you also have a history of endearing yourself to the worst people imaginable, individuals who only saw you for what you could do for them instead of who you are. You deserve better than that.

[Gale's expression softens, his mouth tightening as he glances toward Astarion.]

[sangwhine]

[Astarion gives a light shrug and a smile as he turns to the meal before him. He'll have to at least make a show of eating something, though it's god that they've gotten this far on conversation alone.]

She's right, you know. I told you before, didn't I? That half-rate goddess of yours didn't deserve a man with your kindness and heart when she's shown full well that she's utterly inept at appreciating such qualities.

[mystracal]

[Gale buries himself in another bite, feeling equal parts grateful for their support and embarrassed by their accurate assessment of the follies of his love life. Even now, he feels inclined to defend Mystra, despite everything she's done - how she made him feel, how she left him to suffer with the orb when it was a danger to everyone around him, how she ignored him until he became useful. Even after all this time, he can't help how his heart aches when thinking about what a fool he was.

Morena, on the other hand, is pleased as punch.]

Tara and I have insisted that for years. She's a goddess, and they're fickle things. I was so proud when he was named a Chosen, but just as apprehensive because it meant she had her eye on him.

[sangwhine]

[Astarion is very pleased indeed to have allies in denouncing Mystra for the damage that she did to Gale. The charming topic of conversation makes it much easier to ignore the ashy taste that Morena's food leaves in his mouth.]

Oh, I can certainly understand how it must have been quite appealing. There was a time when I would have given anything for any of the divine to look kindly upon me. But from my understanding, she did not look upon Gale with kindness. And I will not forgive her for that.

[mystracal]

[Morena smiles as Astarion finally takes a bite for himself - she's always insisted there's no better way into someone's heart than through their stomach. She gets to work on her own plate.]

I've written off entire family members for less. Until Mystra learns some respect, she's not allowed in this household. And now that I think about it - if you two go shopping, make sure he gets a new earring.

[sangwhine]

Ah, yes. We should put something new there, shouldn't we, dearest?

[Astarion turns his gaze to Gale, considering. It's true he doesn't much care for Mystra's symbol remaining on his beloved, but he hasn't given much thought to what sort of mark he might put there instead.]

[mystracal]

[Gale meets Astarion's eyes, his hand reaching up to touch his earring as though it'd have gone somewhere. He's had that adornment for years, was so proud of it once. It let everyone know he belonged to her.

He belongs to someone else now, and the idea of having another mark of Astarion's claim — something to go with that on his neck — is thrilling in a way he dares not express in front of his mother. The corner of his mouth tugs upward into a lopsided smile as he tries to find an appropriate response.]

Anything in mind?

[sangwhine]

A ruby, perhaps? A teardrop cut, maybe.

[Is Astarion forgetting to be subtle about the whole vampire thing? Possibly. He gets a slightly more wistful look on his face as he considers what other options might be available.]

Blueshine, perhaps.

[mystracal]

[Though he sees that look, knows its significance, Gale can't help himself at both suggestions.]

Excellent choices. I can't wait to see what you'll pick.

[Morena livens up.]

Blueshine! Now that would look wonderful for a wedding. I'll be sure to have some imported before then—

[Gale cuts her off this time.]

We're not quite there yet, mother, but when we start planning, I promise you will be the first to know.

[sangwhine]

[Astarion can't help but smile. Her enthusiasm is a very welcome change from the scrutiny he saw only moments ago.]

No, not quite yet. When the time comes, your expertise will be appreciated.

[He pauses a breath, nearly biting at his lower lip with a fang before he remembers to keep it hidden.]

But do you happen to know someone who could procure them? I think that I speak for both of us when I say that they're quite--significant to us.

[mystracal]

Not yet, but I have my ways.

[She gives him a quick wink; Gale leans closer, lowering his voice as he gives Astarion's hand a reassuring pat.]

She only has to find someone she can intimidate into it. Quite easy, with her height.

[Morena huffs.]

Whatever you want for your wedding, you will have for your wedding. Besides, the Dekarios clan has connections across the Sword Coast. I'm sure I can find someone.

[sangwhine]

[The touch is welcome, grounding. Astarion turns his hand in Gale's to give his fingers a gentle squeeze.]

Well, then we shall have to take full advantage of those connections when the time comes. I've already told Gale that I'll see him dressed in nothing less than the best finery the City of Splendors has to offer.

[mystracal]

We'll go shopping tomorrow evening, just so you can see what you'll be working with. Waterdeep will not disappoint, I can assure you. You'll need a winter wardrobe too - something to keep you warm when we're out and about. It can get quite chilly at night, after all.

[Is he trying to keep up the charade that Astarion is still a living, breathing mortal, or does Gale just want to spoil his sweetheart with fancy outfits? The world may never know.

Morena smiles to herself.]

If what you'll pick is half as nice as that shirt you lent him, he'll be in good hands. Now eat, both of you. It's getting cold!

[sangwhine]

I told you, dearest. The shirt was a good choice.

[Astarion is certainly not above getting a smug little jab in before going for more of his food. Though it requires a bit more concentration this time--pushing it past his lips, chewing and swallowing, making it look natural--now that the ashy taste still lingers from his first few bites. He still manages several more before going for the glass of water to wash the taste out as much as he can.]

This is truly lovely, my dear Morena. What a treat you've provided for us here.

[mystracal]

[Morena glances at the boys as they eat, absolutely pleased they seem to be enjoying it - although she does give them both a concerned look every now and then, just when she thinks they aren't looking. She covers her emotions much better than her son. She chatters with Gale about her recipe: who she picked it up from, what changes she made to improve it, and what spices she's growing for further adjustments. In good news, Gale himself seems to be enjoying the home-cooked meal.]

I do try to impress, Astarion. If you have any favorite dishes you'd like at the wedding, do let me know? I love to have time to experiment beforehand.

[She's much like Gale, in that way. She murmurs an "Oh!" under her breath, suddenly remembering something.]

Speaking of experiments, would you go get that sweet loaf in the kitchen, Gale? Something I cooked up for our dessert.

[Gale gets to his feet, agreeing before he thinks about the fact he'll be leaving Astarion alone.]

Of course, mum. I, ah.

[His eyes flick Astarion's way, a wrinkle knotting into his brow.]

I'll be right back.

[He pauses there, as if to ask if Astarion will be all right in the meantime.]

[sangwhine]

[Although Astarion's enjoyment is all for show, he's holding up as well as can be expected. He doesn't quite finish everything that's on his plate, though. Rather, he's cutting and pushing the food about most of the time and seizing any opportunity he has to talk, just to give him an excuse to not be eating. It's a practiced art, one he hasn't had to use in a while, but he makes a very convincing show of it.

Fortunately, the happy glow on Gale's face makes it all very worthwhile. So much so that he doesn't seem at all bothered by the prospect of being left alone with Morena. He gives Gale a nod and a little wave of his hand by way of permission.

Of course, dearest. Off you go.

[mystracal]

[Gale nods once to Astarion, then to his mother before he heads toward the kitchen; Tara hops off her stool and bounds after him, reminding him about a powdered topping for said sweet loaf.

Morena busies herself with her plate, finishing her meal and setting her utensils aside, dabbing at her mouth with her napkin while she waits for her son to be out of earshot.]

I haven't yet gotten a chance to ask you what think you'll be doing here in the city, now that you'll be living here. Unless you and Gale intend to go wandering again?

[sangwhine]

[Astarion politely sets his plate and utensils aside as well, giving another little flap of the hand to dismiss the thought of venturing out immediately.]

Gods, no. I appreciate the comfort of a soft bed to sleep in and the finery of civilized life far too much to venture out into the wilds anytime soon.

Though I do admit I haven't quite yet decided what profession to pursue here in your fine city. Your Code Legal is a quite a far cry from the law of the land in Baldur's Gate, and I'm not quite sure the judicial life holds the same appeal for me after our little adventures.