Pot and Kettle

Sebastian was quiet as she explained what it felt like after her ordeal. He couldn't possibly fathom what the experience had been like. Hearing that they'd been in the raw Fade, alone, had been beyond belief. But what happened, specifically, to Aoife was worse yet. In fact, it had angered him when news came his way of what happened. To the point he'd nearly, selfishly, pulled his support of the Inquisition. However, he had advisors to remind him that wasn't the logical move. Or reasonable one.

He still tried to focus on the good, though. Seeing in her what it seemed she could not see for herself. Changed, yes. Of course she was. But in so many ways, she was just the same Aoife he'd known for years. Sebastian had made the mistake of taking a drink as she ran with options for what he might've said. He nearly choked, but managed to keep a minor semblance of composure and clear his throat. Stubborn, perhaps? he offered, painfully obvious in his deflection.

A light chuckle. When have a lot of people ever agreed with me? Only somewhat of a rhetorical question. Some days he was convinced people only agreed with him now because they had to. He was their Prince. Sebastian had never felt like a particularly good leader, after all.

She wasn't wrong about the world seeming to grow only darker lately. Sebastian, however, had focused solely on what he could do to aide others. Like giving Tantervale to the displaced dwarves. Helping rebuild Kirkwall into a better place. But he had a lot more behind him to do such things. Aoife was just one person and protecting one person made sense. Except, perhaps, that it was him.

I assure you I am not that important. He could be as replaced as easily as his family, after all. He'd punctuated his words with a bit of a laugh. An awkward strain behind it. Finishing what was left in the flagon, he set it down on the desk between them. After a pause and some thought, he finally continued. If that's what you wish, I can convince my advisory council that you're to be my body guard. Officially. He looked down at his hands, rubbing them together a moment to ease the want to shake.

Unofficially, he continued, finally looking up and over at her again, you're family. I'll ensure there's staff available to get you whatever you might wish. This room will be yours for as long as you want. And, of course, you're never obligated to stay. He paused, letting out a short, breathy laugh. I'm aware I might be too... dull for you to stick around.

Sebastian couldn't help but wish she'd stay indefinitely. But now was not the time nor the place to express such thoughts. In fact, if his past on the matter were any indication on how he'd handle it... he'd never bring it up. But maybe...

Though I admit I do hope you'll stay for a while, at least. He smiled, genuine and warm, looking down again. I've missed your company.