"You always favored Alastor," Selene continued, her voice vibrating with suppressed anger.
Always.
You spoiled him, protected him, excused him...
While Bryan grew up in your shadow.
Astarion clenched his fists.
— That's not true.
"Don't lie, Astarion.
You were more of a father to Alastor than to Bryan.
As if you had forgotten that you didn't have one son... but two.
He didn't answer.
Then she approached, implacable.
—And don't come and talk to me about laws or traditions.
Nowhere is it written that loving a person of another species is forbidden.
Astarion wanted to speak, but she stopped him with a gesture.
— Don't deny it.
We both know where this obsession comes from.
His gaze became harder, sadder.
— From your first love.
Of another species.
The one who betrayed you by leaving with someone else.
He looked down.
—When are you going to give up this hatred, Astarion?
She destroys you.
And she makes your son unhappy.
A heavy silence settled.
Then Selene continued, more gently, but with implacable gravity.
—You made a lot of mistakes.
You gave your whole heart to the kingdom... neglecting your family.
Yes, you are a sovereign.
But you are also a husband.
And a father.
She took a deep breath.
— Bryan has always been in charge.
He resolved entire conflicts in the shadows, without ever demanding your recognition.
He protected you without you knowing it.
While the one you favored... committed much more serious mistakes.
She took a step back.
—And yet, for you, it has always been Alastor.
She approached one last time, placing a chaste kiss on his cheek.
— It's time for a change.
Then she left, leaving behind a motionless king, alone in the middle of his room.
Astarion remained like that for a long time, his eyes lost in space.
For the first time in years...
he doubted.