"You need not feel threatened by it," he says, by way of clarification. His voice remains quiet, fingers still wrapped around Astarion's wrist a few moments longer; it's difficult to ignore the apparition, given what it says, but having him present is a form of distraction. An alternate focus, when needed.

When he releases Astarion and glances back, the apparition has gone. Despite himself, there's a twinge, a brief sense of loss at its absence-- a brief moment where he reminds himself to pay attention in case anything else happens, now, that they both should likely remain alert.

It's difficult to be, here.