[ Astarion's words give him pause. It's true that his curse makes him closer to undead than not. It's an honest concern, one that Xenk himself has mulled over in his own mind for years. His Oath has guarded him from the worst of it, he's sure, but he hasn't faced the likes of Szass Tam himself, so who's to say what a powerful vampire with access to foul magic could do?

Moreover, Astarion just keeps being worried for his safety, which continues to prove that deep down, he's actually nice. So. Win-win. ]

Your concern is warranted. If his power lies in manipulation of the undead, then I must research the topic thoroughly. It avails me not to act recklessly, and endanger you further.

[ See, he's not totally stupid. ]