[ Thank the Gods Astarion doesn't push any further — simply talking about this conjures a sense of disquietude in Gale. He understands Astarion's point perfectly, but it's different for him in ways Astarion couldn't possibly comprehend. Cazador was Astarion's tormentor and jailer; Mystra, on the other hand, made Gale feel loved, important, worthwhile. He'd do anything to feel like that again.

He physically deflates, metaphorical hackles lowering as he boxes up all of his feelings and shoves them into a dusty corner of his mind. No need to lose his cool, nor dwell on this at all.

Willing away any remnants of unpleasant emotions, he says, ] Careful. Continue on this way, and one might get the impression you care. Your reputation would be in absolute shambles.