[ It's tenuous ground for a paladin to admit. But justice is strict, and actions are absolute. While it's true that Xenk could very well kill Astarion -- likely his Oath would not break for it, his heart would.

Astarion is his friend. He is someone who understands the burden he bears. He is someone who has never had freedom, who was mistreated and enthralled, but who still, deep down, bears the seed of something good. For if he didn't, he wouldn't be so insistent -- he wouldn't push Xenk away, for his own good.

Ultimately, he cares. And no matter what his life was before, he has a new opportunity now. Xenk keeps his eyes cast to the horizon, complete and total certainty in his voice as he says: ]

I will not. For I do not believe it will be.

[ But he does turn to pour himself some more tea. ]

Regardless, how I treat you is my choice. Just as I am choosing to spend this evening by your side.