[It's a nothing-bargain, as his old tutor would have called. Giving away something for nothing at all, the most foolish— and most often committed— mistake in any negotiation. Every word, every smile, every look and glance and name and date and title all have value; to offer them up for nothing at all is like hanging out free money.

But he's rich, when all is said and done, and in more ways than one. And though he knows better than most the foolishness of believing in things like sincerity or connection . . . he likes this elf too much to deny him.]

You realize the point of a masquerade is anonymity, don't you?

[Of course he does. Placing his hand on his breast, he offers Astarion a deep bow from the waist, graceful and fluid as only years of training can produce.]

Duke Ilrostan Presidius Vios Marus Vakares . . .

[He sneaks a small, conspiratorial smile at Astarion as he rises.]

But Vakares is far less of a mouthful.