"His name is Astarion. He's proud, self centered, and not the best at getting along with others. When we met, he had a knife to my neck, and I had to push back and convince him I wasn't an enemy he wanted. But at the same time, he's brave, determined as anything, and no matter what he's said, I've never known him to leave anyone behind if they fell in a fight. He doubts himself, and he wants to make sure the world never does the same. His heart..."

There's a gentle fondness in her voice, as she speaks.

"He probably would strike anyone as an asshole. But I've never regretted inviting him to travel with me."