Seeing Vax return with Stephanie produce several pangs in the general vicinity of Kashaw's heart. First, for Keyleth, still the most annoying person he'd ever met but also one of the dearest. Next, for Vax himself, what it would have cost to make the choice he had, and what he might gain by it. A third, for Stephanie. He'd make it a point to let her know he didn't resent her presence. A fourth for Molly, because he'd hurt her by not giving her the place Vax chose to give to Steph and because by reason of the fifth and most resounding pang, he almost certainly never would.

Before he'd finished suffering said pangs (as if he ever would), but after Stephanie had been seated and Percy had said his piece to Vax, Kash found a free moment to draw Vax aside. "Whatever de Rolo said, good on you for bringing her. Zahra would want me to say that your happiness is important, and that if the time comes that there's a need, I'll help Keyleth understand."

Once, he might have meant he'd love Keyleth himself. But even Keyleth could no longer step into Zahra's place. It was hers. And always would be.