Astarion stood in front of the large, sunlit window. He was still in awe at the fact that he was able to stand in the sun freely, without the help of those illithid tadpoles. He had gained the power he always craved for, the freedom he needed all those 200 wretched and painful years. He inhaled deeply at this moment of calm solitude, appreciating the lack of approaching doom- something he couldn't do just a year ago.

But then, his peace in interrupted by the creaking sound of the door to his study opening.

"Yes?" he asks in a bored tone, not turning around just yet.