[ Again, considers a number of responses to Gale's prompting: dismissive, snide, angry. She forces herself, instead, into the discomfort of the truth. ]
Shadowheart, we can’t even know how much of that other life was real.
And whether or not she had those things, you have yourself. The core of you, who so loves night orchids and fears wolves. You have myself and Astarion and our little hen. You have all who find you captivating here, and there are many who do.
You have your life. Your wants. Your future. What is a past compared to all of that?
[ for a man who is dying, still, it seems a great deal. ]
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After my folly, only a few tried to visit me, and I suspect that was largely to see how far I’d fallen.
[ in fairness, the old gale had been self-aggrandising and prideful. he wouldn’t begrudge them the satisfaction now.
since shadowheart seems open to talking, he pushes a bit further. ]
I imagine this is all very difficult for you.
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[ Again, considers a number of responses to Gale's prompting: dismissive, snide, angry. She forces herself, instead, into the discomfort of the truth. ]
That life felt more real than the one I know.
She felt more real than I do.
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[ can someone sound gently chiding over text? ]
Whyever would you think that? You’re as real as she was, to me. Moreso, even, for your sharper edges.
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Even when she lost them...she still had their memories. She could talk to them beyond the grave.
I have shadows where those memories should be.
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And whether or not she had those things, you have yourself. The core of you, who so loves night orchids and fears wolves. You have myself and Astarion and our little hen. You have all who find you captivating here, and there are many who do.
You have your life. Your wants. Your future. What is a past compared to all of that?
[ for a man who is dying, still, it seems a great deal. ]
1/2
I'm not yet sure what I want. But you're right, Gale. I suppose I can carve my own path now, as strange as it feels.
Thank you.
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[ ahem. ]
She hasn’t been very forthcoming, but she appears well enough. I imagine she’d tell you before me.
[ favoritism… from his only daughter…. ]
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[ An easier topic, than all the rest. ]
I'll have to come paint her nails, soon.
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[ we missed you terribly. ]