[ Iorveth's warm breath tickles his ear, and Astarion smiles. Across the way, the other guard gripes, "You know I had to miss my kid's piano recital for this? Unbelievable."

"Not little Susanna," his comrade says, dismayed.

Astarion instinctively grasps at his waist for a dagger that isn't there; like pockets, it would ruin the lines of the outfit. He scowls, disappointed that his easy plan of 'kill first, ask questions later' will have to be reconsidered. Fine — Susanna's father gets to live another day.

Instead of conferring with Iorveth to figure out their next steps, he takes the initiative to step out in front of the two chatting guards. ]

Ugh, there you are! The lady of the house has been looking for you two nitwits all night! She has half a mind to withhold your pay, you know!