[ Astarion hums, a little tickled by the way Alucard is working this out aloud. And he supposes if he squints he can see what he means by that metaphor. ]

Because of...?

[ He waggles a finger, indicating the change Alucard received upon returning. ]

Well - in that case, I can't say I blame you. Although, despite the lack of consent that came with all of that - there's something rather beautiful about it. I think.