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littlelovelyra · 1 month

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Chapter 3: Mine. (In Darkness, Hope Flickers)

AO3

Ascended Astarion (reimagined) x Vamp Spawn Durge (female, named)

"Once again, no gods answered your cries… they never did. You called out many times over these past 200 years and you were always met with the same deafening silence."

Notes on series: I explore Ascended Astarion. In this world, I have chosen to have him find himself again as the series progresses. Please think of this as reimagining his story where yes, he has a lapse in judgment out of fear and ascends. However, I think it would be beautiful to have him redeem himself, defying what it is to be a vampire lord. Eventually, breaking the cycle of abuse

MINORS DNI

Warnings: Possessiveness, mild non consent, gortash, angst, slight manipulation, PiV, language, teasing?, kinda smutty, ascended astarion,

Summary of chapter is below. Word Count: 4,966

Summary of chapter: A few weeks have passed since you and Astarion had last been together, the solitude that surrounds you feels heavy but not as heavy as the void that fills your heart. You know this break was needed and that inevitably you will eventually lose your freedom to him once the tadpole is removed, so is there even a point in having a break? While you and your companions continue to gather more information on the Absolute you have decided to utilise your previous connection with Gortash to gain his trust by attending one of his many extravagant parties, however, you were not successful in gathering information. What could have derailed that?

____________________________________________

Lilah:

In the cold solitude of the night, the bed you once shared with him feels like a vast ocean in his absence and every evening you sink helplessly within its sheets, drowning in your loneliness. Memories woven into every single piece of stitching haunt you and fill you with deep mourning for the loving relationship you once had. No matter how often you wash your clothes, sheets and even your hair, his scent lingers as if to push you down further into sadness viciously. Taking a break from him was necessary while you were still free and you know you have lost the man he once was. You needed to accept this reality, yet you held on to that tiny glimmer of hope that he might still be in there. Your Astarion… the man who opened his heart to you despite years of abuse… the man who trusted you to see parts of him that nobody else saw. A white-hot pain rips through your chest again, leaving another set of deep slashes on your heart and tears spill from your eyes.

You roll over, bury your head into your pillow and scream into the feathered void. This has become routine for you when it reaches midnight. In a burst of frustration you snatch a book from your bedside table and fling it across the room, watching it soar through the air hitting the wall with a loud thud and another thud followed as it reached the floor. You curl yourself up into a ball and release a new set of tears as soft sobs escape from your lips.

You must not have heard the door open to your room as you feel a warm hand gently squeeze your shoulder. Lifting your head through your blurry vision you see Halsin kneeling before you as concern floods his eyes and another sob escapes your lips. He gently pulls you down to the floor and cradles you in a soft embrace as if you were a piece of fragile porcelain.

“Shhh my heart, it’s alright.” His hand rubs warm circles on your back as you inhale deeply trying to stop yourself from crying. “Come, you need to rest.” He lifts you as he stands and places you back into your bed. You feel his weight sink in next to you on the mattress and you turn towards him nestling yourself in his arms. “Sleep… please, I’ll stay with you.” His voice is soft but you can hear the slight edge of worry woven through his words and all you can do is nod your head in response. Halsin is a good man and perhaps in another world the two of you would have met under different circumstances and fallen madly in love. But in this world, underneath these stars, your heart only yearned for one person and it was not him.

‘Would it be so horrible to at least give Halsin a chance?' A thought flitters across your mind as you feel his arms pull you closer to him. ‘It wouldn’t be fair on him; he deserves more than I could offer him. My heart wouldn’t be in it… and even if I could, I would be under Astarion’s command once the tadpole is gone.’ A quiet acceptance rolls through you as you close your eyes and take a deep breath; the sweet scent of honey and warm earthy undertones envelop you, and slowly you drift off to sleep.

************

The sound of muffled voices in a heated conversation stirs you from your sleep. As you slowly wake up and look around your room, you notice that you are alone once more and the morning light trickles in through the curtains. Cautiously, you tiptoe to the voices and press your ear against the door, eavesdropping. Gale, Halsin, and Astarion are in a heated disagreement, you steady your breathing, straining to catch every word.

“I’m with Halsin on this, there is absolutely no way we can put more strain on her right now. You heard him Astarion, she is barely sleeping.” Gale’s voice is frustrated and laced with annoyance.

“Right, so we are meant to trust the Druid because he obviously knows what’s best for her, hmmm? Need I remind you who I am to her?” Astarion sighs dramatically.

Halsin scoffs loudly “Who you are to her? I can tell you who you are. You are the very thing keeping her awake at night. You have shattered her soul, all for power. Did you know that she has wept every single night since she separated from you?” Astarion stays quiet. “No? Or were you aware, but you did not care to save her from her heartache? Because power means more to you?” Halsin’s words are like a blade, sharp and deadly.

“She was the one who asked for a break, Druid. Do not imply that it was my decision. I don’t see what any of this has to do with us anyway. Gortash has requested our presence, and given her history with him, it only makes sense that she attends with us. We are meant to be his allies, or, at least appearing to be so. It is one party for hells-sake. I am sure she can cope.” Exasperation seeps from Astarion as his patience begins to wear thin.

“I will not ask her to do this.” Halsin lowers his voice, and an eerie calm settles in each word. As you try to silently shift your weight to your other foot, a very faint creak escapes from the floorboards. Halsin continues, thankfully not noticing the sound. “I will not put more pressure on her, by all means, Astarion, you go and ask her. Drive that wedge further between the two of you. I will be there picking up the pieces.”

“Well, my dear Druid, I believe I don’t need to ask her as it seems she’s been listening in.” Light footsteps approach, and before you have time to react, Astarion opens the door and stands before you smugly. “Hello, beautiful. Care to join the conversation? It would be rude not to, seeing as you have been listening in.”

You stare him down, and pure rage settles in your stomach. You straighten your posture, turning towards Gale and Halsin. “Gortash is having a celebration? Tell him I will be there and that I expect to have his undivided attention.” You turn now and face Astarion “You want me to go and play ally with Gortash? I was not only Bhaal’s chosen, but his chosen too. I’m sure your powerful mind can figure out what that means, master.” You lock crimson eyes and watch as your words sink in. Astarion holds your gaze for a moment then turns and descends into the tavern.

Gale awkwardly clears his throat and mutters about needing to finish breakfast for everyone. With a hasty retreat, he leaves the foyer, abandoning you and Halsin to the silence.

“Gortash’s chosen?” Halsin asks curiously.

“We... have a history. I sometimes have small moments recollecting our time together. I would not call it a relationship; it was casual, and no commitment was needed. However, he chose to only be with me.” You avoid his gaze as a wave of shame swallows you.

“I understand. Would you explore that again with him?” Halsin’s voice carries no judgment, just his genuine curiosity.

“No. I don’t think I would. Now that I know what love feels like, it seems redundant.” You offer him an apologetic smile as you know he understands who you speak of. “Thank you for last night, Halsin. I can’t express to you how much it means to me. I’m just sorry I cannot give you all you want. I can’t commit to anything, and I am unsure I ever will after Astarion...” Your voice trails off as you stare out the open window.

“Commit? I don’t need your commitment, Lilah. The heart should be free to roam as nature intended. But, I appreciate that we may have different views on the matter, and I would never persuade you to see my ways. If holding you at night is all you need, then I will be glad to help in whatever capacity I can.” He smiles sincerely and pulls you in for a hug.

“Thank you, Halsin. You are a good friend.” You release yourself from the embrace and look up to read his expression. His eyes are soft and peaceful. You believe he means what he says; he is happy to be in your life however he can, and a sense of relief washes over you. “Let's go get some breakfast, huh?” You playfully jab his side and walk into the shared quarters, where you see Gale beginning to serve your companions their food.

_______________________________________________

Astarion:

As you exit the tavern your mind is filled with confusion and anger. ‘Gortash’s chosen?’ The audacity of that woman, throwing that in your face in front of that blasted druid who so desperately wants her. Over the past three weeks, you've observed from a distance how he seizes every opportunity to play the role of Prince Charming—always rushing to her side with ferocious haste before you could intervene. You knew she wept almost nightly since she called for the break. Your heightened senses do not allow you to escape her soft sobs that she believes no one hears. The way she screams into her pillow, a sound so broken that you fear it may just haunt you for all eternity. But she chose this; she decided to distance herself. Why did she do it if this is how it is impacting her? How were you not good enough for her now when you have all this power? You gave her immortality, and it still wasn’t enough. If you had stayed a spawn, you would have outlived her and being without her was not an option. You took the ascension with so many things in mind, mainly because with this power, you could be together forever and have everything. How was that not appealing?

Walking along the path you notice the steady stream of people filling the once quiet streets, going about their daily business. Swiftly you make your way to the palace, determined to finally figure out what you want to do with the place. Honestly, you thought that by ascending, your life would become easier. Yet here you are, struggling to decide how to decorate. You had visions of her bringing it to life, giving it new meaning and making it your own. After everything you had been through together, you would have never thought that ascending would be the demise of your relationship.

Swinging the doors open you slowly walk through the dull, empty halls, frustration simmers within you until it erupts uncontrollably. In a fit of rage, you yank every curtain from its rails, flooding each room with sunlight. You tear paintings off the walls and strip the bedding from each bedroom, dragging the curtains, bedding, and paintings to the elevator that descends into the hidden chasms beneath the palace. This task takes far longer than you anticipated; you underestimated the sheer amount of clutter that needed to be discarded. Then again, the entire place was in shambles—if you could drag the walls themselves into the chasms, you probably would. As you descend to the hidden rooms, you begin the tedious task of hurling each painting, curtain, and bedsheet over the ledge, watching them plummet into the darkness, never to be seen again.

You repeat this process until there is nothing left, and as you stare out from the ledge into the darkness you can’t hold back your emotions any longer.

“Fuuuuck!!!!!!!” The scream rips through your body, escaping your mouth as you drop to your knees. “Just give me a FUCKING BREAK! Are you listening this time!? GIVE. ME. A. BREAK!” Another scream escapes, and when the echoes fade, a heavy silence swallows you. Once again, no gods answered your cries... they never did. You called out many times over these past 200 years and you were always met with the same deafening silence. A constant reminder that you were alone and it seems the gods intended to keep it that way. An exhausted sigh leaves your lips as you rake your fingers through your hair and return to the elevator, vowing never to return to these hidden rooms again.

As you exit into the hall a soft, warm light fills the room. Glancing out the window you realise the sun has begun its descent, you didn’t realise how long this process had taken and a part of you was glad that you managed to waste the hours away in solitude. It’s not that you didn’t like being around her anymore, it’s that you felt this annoying feeling in the pit of your stomach knowing that you can’t have her. The way your body aches to hold her makes you feel weak and being in her presence is a constant reminder that not even ascending could stop you from being pathetic. All you have managed to do after gaining this power was fuck up and lose the single most important thing in your life. That certainly doesn’t scream “Vampire Lord”, it screams failure.

Slowly dragging your hand down your face you gather yourself and inhale deeply. “Get it together. You have appearances to uphold. Especially tonight.” Your thoughts pull you from the pity party you’ve so willingly participated in and you begin to ready yourself for this evenings events at Wyrm’s Rock Fortress.

As you open one of the closets in the main bedroom, your eyes land on an outfit you've never seen before. In your 200 years as a spawn, no one had ever worn this—it’s the kind of attire you would have remembered. You lift the top carefully and peer inside the collar, discovering its name: "City of Brass," a fitting title for the exquisite garment you now hold delicately.

You slip into a black padded undershirt, its soft fabric comfortably hugging your skin, before tucking it into a pair of black dress pants that contour perfectly to your legs. As you fasten the outer blazer, you catch your reflection in the mirror, admiring the intricate design. The blazer, a deep navy blue, is adorned with elegant silver metallic embroidery, fastenings, and trims that add a touch of powerful sophistication to the ensemble. You slide your feet into a pair of black leather boots then run your fingers through your hair and as you take one last look of yourself in the mirror only one word comes to mind; imposter.

______________***_________________

If you could praise Gortash for one thing, it would be knowing how to put on a great gathering. The man knew how to host a party, as you walk into the main hall the festivities are well underway. Around the room there are small separate groups of people holding drinks in hand engaging in conversation, there are other groups swaying to the music in the middle of the hall and people gathered near the food table filling their plates.

Across the room a melodic laugh weaves it’s way through the noise filling your chest with a familiar warmth. You know that laugh all to well and as your eyes fall on her you swear you felt your heart beat, once with longing and once with jealousy as you see her hand placed on Gortash’s arm while she throws her head back in laughter. As your eyes roam down her body you see his hand cupping the small of her back against her skin. The dress she wears is a beautiful midnight blue with a low cut back, the material flows straight down her body and is slightly translucent as each time the light catches her you see her shadowed figure through the thin material. You watch as Gortash’s hand lowers to the edge of that low cut back nearing her backside and a fiery heat ignites through you.

“Oh I think NOT.” You grumble to yourself as you stalk over, composing yourself along the way. You needed to look confident and you needed to stop whatever THAT was.

“Well, well, Darling you look ravishing this evening.” Your words smooth over like silk as you subtly wrap your arm around her waist and turn her into you. Placing a soft kiss to her cheek you bring your mouth to her ear “You have no right looking this delicious.”

“You showed up. I assumed you would not be joining us this evening since you were away all day.” She peers up at you through her lashes, her gaze landing on your lips for a brief moment before meeting your eyes.

“Ah yes, I had some business to attend to but I would never miss the opportunity to see you all dressed up.” Your lips pull up into a smirk as you subtly inch closer to her, needing to feel her lips against yours just once.

You hear Gortash clear his throat as his hand settles on her shoulder pulling her attention away from you and you felt like ripping that hand clear off his body in that moment.

“Astarion, how nice of you to join us, I was just about to take Lilah for a little walk down memory lane. You don’t mind, do you?” He raises his eyebrow in a challenge with a shit eating grin spreading across his features.

“Memory lane, huh?” Your gaze falls to Lilah who watches you curiously and you feel the muscle tick along your jaw while you clench your teeth waiting for her response. You know what memory lane is, Gortash and her had history before she lost her memory. “By all means, be my guest. Who am I to stop old flames from rekindling?” Your question is more of a challenge to her and part of your soul begs her to prove you wrong.

She looks at you in disbelief and you see the rage flood her features. “Come on Enver, I would love to reminisce, perhaps you can help jog my memory.” Her voice is cold but you hear an edge of pain there as she links her arm through his and you watch them disappear up the steps, heading toward his private quarters.

Fuck.

______________________________________

Lilah

Enver’s private quarters has a vague familiarity as you slowly move around the room taking in the decor. As you skim your hand along his desk images of your cheek being pressed against the hard surface makes your skin crawl as you recall this piece of furniture being utilised for more than just the signing of documentation. Perhaps it was foolish being brought here but you did this out of spite, you thought that maybe Astarion would stop you, that maybe it would stir something in him. Unfortunately, you were wrong and now you find yourself alone in a room with Gortash.

As he approaches you with two drinks in hand you accept the beverage as a sly smile paints his face.

“That desk was rarely used for work. Though, most of the furniture in this room had been used creatively… apart from this.” His sleazy gaze meets yours as he ushers you towards the long dining table. “I do wonder, if you would indulge me in a little experiment? To see if we can get those memories to resurface?” He gently taps the table gesturing you to take a seat. This is a dangerous game you’re playing but for now there is no need to break an alliance just yet. Confidently you stroll over to the table, lifting yourself up to sit on its surface and as you watch Gortash retrieve a chair from the side of the room your legs tremble slightly as they hang over the tables edge.

The soft padded chair settles with a dull thud as he places it in front of you and runs his fingers along the fabric, prowling around and eventually seating himself before you. His head in perfect line with your core and you squeeze your knees close together ensuring he has no visuals of your womanhood. Fuck. Fuck fuck fuck. Your mind is races with possible reasoning to deter him because you cannot afford to mess up this alliance, not now.

“Relax, nothing will happen. Only if you want it to.” A low chuckle escapes from his lips as he places his hand on your knee, his thumb slowly caressing the exposed skin. Visions flood your mind of nights where your skin burned with desire under his touch on this very table. This certainly was his dining table… not only for food. A sick twisting feeling builds up inside your gut as bile starts to rise, you inhale deeply trying to fight the wave of sickness that has taken over after seeing these memories.

Do something, say anything! Just get off the fucking table Lilah! You scream internally to yourself. Sitting up straight you open your mouth to suggest rejoining his party but before the words can come out you hear the doors swing open. You snap your attention towards the entrance and see Astarion stumbling in with a young blonde female draped over his arm and a fiery rage settles in the pit of your stomach. You lock eyes with him and see his own rage dancing behind those crimson pools as his mouth twists in disgust. In his defence you suppose walking in to seeing Gortash in a very suggestive spot may definitely be a disgusting sight, however, the little blonde thing hanging all over him is just as disgusting in your opinion. A shrill giggle escapes from the woman as she attempts to drag him out by his arm and for the first time since you denied Bhaal your mind swirls with murderous thoughts.

You grab a butter knife that was left on the table and fling it in his direction, as it cuts through the air it misses his face by inches. The sound of the knife skidding across the ground behind him comes to an end and all that is left is a heavy silence as the two of you glare at one another.

Gortash chuckles once more as he stands from his seat “Well, I suppose it’s time for me to head back down, I am the host after all.” He takes your hand and plants a soft kiss to your palm and exits the room, taking the young woman with him.

The door clicks shut and Astarion slowly makes his way toward you, never breaking eye contact. You watch as he stalks his way over and notice the slight flare in his nostrils and tick of his muscles along his jaw from clenching his teeth. As he stands before you his hand grips your face, pulling it up to meet his gaze and he holds you there.

“What?” The word is a challenge from your lips and you wait for his response while he still holds your face in his hand.

“Explain yourself.” His words bite out through clenched teeth and the crimson in his eyes become ablaze.

You scoff loudly at the audacity of this man. “Explain myself? I’m not the one sneaking into rooms with pretty little blonde things draped all over me!” You try wriggle your way out from his grip but you can’t break free.

“I came in here because I thought you may need help removing yourself from the situation. But I see I was wrong.” The heat in his words burn your skin, does he really think you believe him?

“Bullshit Astarion. You couldn’t wait to get yourself another pretty little obedient consort. Don’t lie to me.” You wriggle once more but stay locked in his grip and an irritated sigh escapes you. “I wouldn’t follow you blindly, perhaps your little plan on making me your spawn really backfired on you, hmmm? Go get your little blonde-.” Your words are interrupted by the sound of his other hand slamming down on the table next to you as he draws his face closer to yours, his lips only a hairline away from yours.

“Do not accuse me of such things. Tell me, pet, when his hands were on you did you think of me? Or perhaps when the Druid visits your chambers in the late hours of the evenings, do you think of me then? No? What about when he kisses you? Do I cross your mind at all?” His breath skates across your lips, teasing your senses. “You belong to me.”

“Fuck you.” Your breathing feels heavy as rage swirls within your chest, a slight tremor begins to take over your bottom lip and before he can notice you catch it between your teeth.

His eyes fall to your lips and as he looks back up at you his mouth crashes into yours. A low groan vibrates from his throat as the hand that once gripped your face laces itself into your hair. His other free hand shifts from the table, gliding to your back pulling you firmly against him and you instinctively wrap your legs around his body bringing him in closer. The anger inside you has not wavered and as far as you can tell, neither has his. Every movement of the kiss is filled with fire and desperation, as your lips part he pulls your bottom lip between his teeth and you feel a brief sting that is later replaced with a sweet metallic taste. Your blood.

“Don’t…bite me.” You grunt between his kisses.

“What would you do about it?” He quips back in an irritated tone as he moves his hand from your back to your inner thigh, pushing your dress up to your hips.

“Don’t tempt me. Next time my knife won’t miss.” Your hands angrily fumble around his trousers as you unfasten them. A low growl escapes his mouth and the sound vibrates across your lips.

“I’m sure that would sound very intimidating… to a stick… of butter.” His words stagger as he removes your panties and you feel them slip past your ankles, falling to the floor. “A butter knife… was not a good choice…” his hand snakes its way up your thigh and stops near your core. You feel his index finger trace one long stroke through your slick seam and he groans against your mouth in another kiss.

“Just shut up and take me.” Irritation sweeps through you. This is stupid. He is stupid… You’re stupid. What in the nine hells are you doing right now??

“Always so impatient. That’s your problem.” His words huff out in an irritation of his own as he frees himself and grips your hips.

“Perhaps I just know what I want. So why wait?” You grip his hardened length and guide him in. As he pushes forward your head falls back and you release a loud sigh, relishing the feeling of him against you again. For a few moments there is only the sound of your heavy breaths and the rhythm of his body driving into you while his thumb works your sensitive bud. A tightness begins to form in your core as your muscles tense and your body begins to tremble. You can feel the sweet release edging closer… closer… and then… he stops.

“What the fuck Astarion?” You wiggle your hips to try get the momentum going and you feel his hands pinning your waist down.

“End the break.” He breathes into your ear.

“No.” Your reply is short but sharp. He’s out of his mind.

“End. The. Break.” His voice is low and commanding but you hear a slight desperation to his words. “Why delay the inevitable? You are mine.” He teases a short thrust that sends flames across your body.

“If I end the break will you let me come?” Your irritation spills over, how dare he do this to you. You feel his thumb slide down your core. “Maybe.” His voice is barely above a whisper as he rests his forehead on yours.

“Will you turn me into a vampire? Or will I be a spawn forever?” You close your eyes knowing what the answer will be.

He pauses for a moment releasing a small sigh. “One day.” A small knot forms in your throat and you realise you have no more fight left in you. He’s right, it is inevitable because once this tadpole is gone you are under his command anyway. Why delay it?

“Compromise. Let’s compromise. The break is not fully revoked. You need to make me believe that I mean more to you.” You lock eyes with him once more and wait for his response.

“Fine…” He thrusts slowly and a groan breaks free from your lips. “But I get a condition too.” Another slow thrust moves through you. “You are mine. No one can touch you. Not Gortash, not the druid… no one.” Before you have the chance to respond to his claim on you he captures your mouth once again as his body moves against yours. His thumb returning to the sweet little bud that begs for release. His free hand grips your waist and he drives into you faster and harder, the feeling builds up beneath your skin, your muscles tighten, body trembling… and finally the wave of pleasure crashes over you as you cling to him his name escapes your lips in a cry of passion.

You feel his hips buck as he pulls you closer and as he finds his release he lets out a groan that moves through your body. His hands cup either side of your face, he stares into your eyes and in a deep snarl a single word spills from his lips:

“Mine.”

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littlelovelyra · 3 months

Text

Chapter 6: The Inconvenience (The Change Series)

"... My patience is wearing thin and I would very much like to relax with my girlfriend, yes you heard me, my GIRLFRIEND. Now get out or you will die sooner rather than later.”

AO3

Notes: Sorry this took so long! I've been busy with work lol - also for my other fics if you are following them, I promise updates are coming <3

Summary: You and your companions are celebrating the small victory of finally killing Auntie Ethel, saving the young girl from a horrible demise and reuniting her with her mother. The location of your celebration is at the speakeasy Astarion had previously taken you to (the one that has some special infused wine for vampire spawns like yourself) - later that evening your companions head back to the Elfsong continue your celebrations while you and Astarion take a walk to the docks…. and end up getting kidnapped, again. Great.

For ease all my work is 18+ minors DNI

Warnings: torture (ish if you squint its very very short), fluff, blood, fighting, language, let me know if i missed anything?

____________________________

Tav:

Laughter and cheers fill the air of the speakeasy you and Astarion visit frequently, because why would you pass up the opportunity for free beverages? Especially when said beverages were infused with ethically sourced humaniod blood. Glancing around the room you see Karlach and Halsin arm wrestling to see who’s the toughest, no doubt Karlach will take the victory, Halsin may be huge for an elf, however, he is just a big softie. You watch as the sweat beads atop the druid’s brow as Karlach flashes a knowing smile. You can almost see the veins in his hands pulsing as he strains to pin her and against all his efforts Karlach flicks her wrist in one movement pinning his arm to the table. Halsin’s head rolls back and a rumbling belly laugh fills the room as Karlach dramatically kisses her muscles while she flexes. These moments are rare since you are all occupied with taking steps to defeat the elder brain, the destination seems eons away as you are trying to help all your companions with their battles. Cazador was just one abuser on that list… you still needed to aid Shadowheart, Gale, Wyll, Lae’zel… the list goes on and on. But today… today was a small victory and you owed it to them to have a small respite to celebrate.

“Evening Tav, you look beautiful as always.” Lysander, the very flirtatious barkeep leans over the counter giving you his best smile.

“Evening Andy, as always you are too kind to me.” You return his smile with your own, knowing that Astarion is watching. This was one of the fun little games you loved to play with him, he gets so very jealous of Lysander and you find it quite adorable. “How has business been? Anything interesting happening as of late?” You bat your eyes and slowly brush your hair over your shoulder.

“Business has been busier since your last visit m’lady. I have noticed more of our patrons are requesting our… infusions.” He presses his lips together and his brow furrows in mild concern.

“Is that so? Well, Andy, you’ve piqued my interest! What can you tell me about these new patrons?” You keep your voice light and flirtatious but a wave of anxiety courses through your body. You know Sebastian is waiting to strike at any given moment and while your other half is not worried, you certainly are.

“I’m glad you came tonight, there is something I needed to tell you. There were four spawns here two nights ago, asking of you and your… friend.” Lysander always refused to acknowledge Astarion’s connection to you, but you let it pass this evening and allowed him to continue. “I knew they spoke of you as the descriptions fit. I had told them that many people visit this establishment and I couldn’t possibly keep track of every soul who walked through my doors.” He offers a sheepish smile as his face reddens. “I thought you should know… If you are in any sort of trouble m’lady… Let me try to help in any way that I can?” His hand momentarily touches yours in a show of concern, however, he releases it as he sees Astarion stalking over to the bar.

“So lovely to see you, Andy. This looks like a fascinating conversation, mind if I butt in?” Astarion glances at you raising his eyebrow, a subtle smirk appears as he wraps his arm around your waist.

“Andy was just telling me he had some people here asking for us. But he graciously turned them away. He offered help if we need it.” You smile sweetly at the barkeep and his eyes sparkle at your acknowledgement. “If anything comes up again, please see me at the Elfsong Tavern. We have the whole upper floor. Thank you again for letting me know but my companions and I should be going.” You nudge your head to the group just as Gale drunkenly knocks over a bottle of wine and you give Lysander an apologetic smile. “I know my drinks are complimentary but please take this to restock.” You place a pouch filled with 500 gold coins and his eyes widen in appreciation and shock at your generosity.

As your group leaves the speakeasy to make their way home you and Astarion fall slightly behind after letting them know you will see them in the morning. The pale glow from the moon illuminates the quiet streets of Baldur’s Gate as you stroll hand in hand towards the docks, only the sound of the wind dancing through the sails surrounds you and for once you feel a moment of peace. The soft tap of your footsteps along the dock echoes out over the still water that reflects the clear skies above, looking as if the water were the stars themselves.

While admiring the star-filled water, Astarion's arms wrap around your waist from behind pulling you into him and he places his chin atop your head, gazing out at the water with you in a comfortable silence. Eternity… You get to be with this man, eternally. Tears sting your eyes at the thought and an uncomfortable lump of emotion builds in your throat. How far the two of you have come from the first moment you met. After all the obstacles you have faced together most people would have crumbled to the pressure, but not you. Your love seems to withstand anything, and although you are far from being able to live a peaceful life you think to yourself that it wouldn’t matter as long as you had each other.

You are not sure how long you have been standing there lost in your thoughts but you feel a slight shift in how Astarion holds you. His arms seem to have tightened, his stance has widened and he now stands upright while his head slowly scans the area.

“My love, it seems we have some… visitors” He calmly whispers into your ear and you mentally ready yourself for a fight.

_________________________________________________

Astarion:

There is something about the still of the water you find yourself staring at while you hold her. Perhaps it’s the inky darkness or the way it reflects the stars… or it’s because of both. You would not be able to see the stars had the water not been so dark and it comes to mind that that is what Tav is to you, the light in the dark. With all the darkness that has surrounded you throughout your journey, she has been the light. You wonder to yourself if you would ever stop being in awe of her and deep down you already know the answer is no.

Something snaps your attention away as you see a shadow shift behind a barrel from the corner of your eye. Cautiously you glance around the area and notice three shapes slowly sneaking their way to you and your lover. Mentally you scoff at their amateur attempt at staying hidden, they clearly need some lessons in the art of being stealthy and you doubt Sebastian even knew where to start. Nonetheless, your grip tightens around Tav’s waist as you adjust your stance and ready yourself.

“My love, it seems we have some… visitors” Your voice remains calm and kept to a whisper. You feel her breathing become shallow as anxiety settles within her chest. “I will not let you go, you’ve got this and I’ve got you.”

Three vampire spawns spring out of the shadows and surround you, two males and a female, their crimson eyes glowing with hatred.

“Sebastian requires your presence, Astarion.” The female hisses in your direction. You vaguely remember her, the half-elf you had found one evening at the bar in Wyrm’s Crossing. Her hair was a pale blonde back then but it seems she has since changed it to an inky black.

“I hate to disappoint but we will politely decline.” Tav’s voice flows through the air with an eerie calm as you feel her body tense against yours.

They do not bother to respond, instead, they inch closer to you grabbing both you and Tav sending you disappearing in a cloud of red mist. Gods dammit, not this again. You think in frustration as you both appear in a familiar part of the Underdark. The bloody Underdark, of all places… you let out a loud annoyed sigh.

The three spawns quickly bind you and Tav together back to back and usher you to sit inside an inactive Faerie ring. This looks… familiar.

“The Faerie ring, does this look familiar to you?” You send a mental note to Tav utilising the tadpoles link.

“Yes, we’ve been here before. If you go slightly left, that crevice leads to the Kuo-Toa.” She proceeds to send you a mental image of the pathway leading to your fishy friends. “How are the binds? Do you think you would be able to undo them?”

“With some time, I may be able to get them loose-.” Your thought is cut off as you see the half-elf female approach you.

“Well, it seems like this is my lucky day. Sebastian can’t make it here as soon as we had hoped, but, he told us we could have some fun as long as you were left alive.” She flashes a wicked smile and pulls out a dagger, pressing the tip to your cheek just hard enough causing a drop of blood to spill.

“If you touch him again, you will regret it.” Tav’s voice cuts through the air sharply, every word laced with a poisonous promise.

“Last I checked, you were the ones tied up.” The half-elf drags the dagger down your chest and you press your lips together to muffle the scream that threatens to escape your throat. You will not let them hear you scream.

Tav wriggles behind you furiously “You’re going to regret that! I’ll kill you!” Her voice cracks betraying her.

The half-elf drags the dagger slowly up your left thigh and you concentrate hard on holding back the screams of pain that are trying to claw their way out. You slowly wriggle your bound hands trying to find any weak points in the binding and realise that they have not been tightened enough. Amateurs. You mentally scoff.

“If this won’t make you scream… perhaps this will.” The female walks around and runs her blade down Tav’s arm and she grunts through the pain. A rage settles in your chest and you promise yourself that she will pay for this. “I can get these ropes loose, they haven’t tightened them.” You pass a mental note to your lover as you stealthily release one hand and work on hers. “Be prepared to run.”

“I have a plan. Follow me once we get free alright?” She gently squeezes your hands that are loosening her bindings and it’s not long before her hands are freed.

Tav spits in the half-elf’s face which sends her tumbling back in disgust “Detono!” She sends the half-elf flying back landing in the middle of a small group of spawns. The two of you jump to your feet and you ignore the burning pain shooting through your body.

“Ira et dolor!” An ominous black mist encases the spawns and between the whispers of the fog, you hear blood-curdling screams as they attempt to escape.

Tav grabs you by the hand and sprints toward the crevice, leading to the Kuo-Toa and you climb down the cragged rock with haste.

As you reach the bottom you sprint towards the creatures stopping in place once they all turn their attention to Tav.

“Mahkloompah!” They yell in unison and bow their heads in reverence to your lover.

________________________

Tav:

“OH great and mighty Mahkloompah, to what do we owe this visit?” The one you know as ‘Pooldrip the Zealous’ waves his arms about excitedly as he awaits your reply.

“I have come to… issue you with a test! My… chosen and I are being bothered by a few vampire spawn. I could vanquish them with a flick of my wrist, however, I realised, that this would be an excellent test for my most loyal followers!” You spin around dramatically stretching your arms out to the many creatures surrounding you. “Mahkloompah’s blessing will be upon any followers who aid us in our safe return to Baldur’s Gate!”

The creatures roar with cheers and chant your name. “Oh, magnificent Mahkloompah… we shall pass this test! We will prove ourselves worthy of your blessings!” Pooldrip claps his hands together and bows his head. As you look toward the cragged rock you see the group of spawns closing in.

You dramatically usher their gaze towards the spawn and bow holding their stare outstretching your arms. A smirk spreads itself across your mouth “Kill them all. But leave the half-elf female for me.” As soon as the words leave your mouth your loyal followers descend, greatly outnumbering the ten spawn that have come to retrieve you.

As you look around the clashing bodies your gaze lands on the half-elf and you cock your head to the side. “Impero te.” The words slither out from you, snaking their way toward her and you watch her body lock into place as you dominate her. “Come to me.” You command and watch as she makes her way towards you, her eyes wide with fear.

As she finally stands in front of you a laugh escapes your mouth “Take out your dagger.” Another command fires out and she obeys. “Good. Now, do exactly what you did to my lover on your skin.” A rage bubbles under your skin remembering his muffled grunts of pain. Her eyes well with tears as she slowly carries out your order and an unfamiliar smile settles on your face.

You feel a hand on your shoulder and Astarion leans down to your ear “Tav, we can be better than this.” His voice is calm as he rubs your shoulder. “She hurt you Astarion.” Your words bite back and you feel a gentle squeeze.

“I know, I want to hurt her too for what she did to you… but… she’s angry, she has every right to be. I… took everything from these people.” The softness of his voice breaks your rage and you feel tears fall down your cheeks. “You did what you had to… he made you do this… do they not understand?” Your voice cracks as the sobs leave your body.

“I know, what’s done is done. Let her go Tav, it’s alright.” He kisses you softly on your cheek and wipes away the tears that have settled on your skin. You glance at the half-elf and release your hold on her. She stands there for a moment, blade in hand and you can see the thoughts running through her mind as she weighs her options. Astarion folds his arms around you and pulls you in close to his chest. “Go. Now. But know this, if you touch her again, I will not be willing to let you go.” With shaking hands he waves her off, before she leaves you see her eyes soften as she glances between you and Astarion and then disappears in that familiar red mist, the remaining spawn follow her lead and flee from the combat.

“Let’s go home shall we?” He whispers in your ear and places a soft kiss on your cheek. As you make your way toward the exit of the hidden cove Astarion turns to the Kuo Toa and clears his throat. “Mahkloompa is most impressed with your dedication, she finds favour with you all!” A roar of cheers and praise erupts through the air as you ascend and make your way to the nearest sigil.

In flash of purple light you and Astarion land at the top floor of the Elfsong Tavern and don’t bother filling in your companions of the recent events. You are both tired and in need of some healing, opting for the healing potions you keep in your private quarters. You notice the door to your room is slightly ajar and Astarion protectively walks in front of you using his arm to shield you as he pushes the door open and walks in.

“Oh for fucksake.” Astarion bites out. “Come to do your own dirty work now Sebastian?” Your body prickles with fury as you spin out of Astarion’s grip and stalk your way towards the spawn stopping halfway.

“You would know all about dirty work, wouldn’t you?” Sebastian spits back his eyes glowing with a red hot hatred.

“Shut your filthy fucking mouth.” A rage boils through you as you pull a dagger out from your boot as you throw it watching the blade slip through the air and land right next to his head, burying itself in the wall.

“What a temper she has Astarion. I must say, you chose well for that conquest, she hangs on your every word and is so willing to protect you. A smart move.” Sebastian chuckles softly as he looks at you with disgust. “He doesn’t love you, you know that right? Right?” He holds your stare and a smile plays on his lips. “Astarion… remember what we once shared? Why bother with her? Surely what we had is more… special?” You watch as Sebastian’s eyes turn seductive as if he was trying to lure Astarion back to him and your insecurities bubble within your stomach as he turns to face you. “Gods, you think he loves you, don’t you? Are you that stupid? Do you have any remaining braincells in that thick head of yours?” In a flash Astarion is at his side gripping Sebastian’s throat firmly.

“Do not speak to her that way again or it will be the LAST thing you do. What I have with her… transcends anything I have ever had.” He squeezes tightly and shoves his grip forward knocking Sebastian’s head back. “Now, what do you want? My patience is wearing thin and I would very much like to relax with my girlfriend, yes you heard me, my GIRLFRIEND. Now get out or you will die sooner rather than later.” Astarion’s eyes are ablaze with irritation.

Sebastian’s gaze flickers between you and your lover and you notice the unmistakable glimpse of envy that is soon replaced with humour. “Girlfriend? My how you’ve changed… very well, I’ll take my leave for now. However, this is not over until one of us dies and I assure you, it won’t be me.” He vanishes in that stupid red mist and you continue to stare at the chair he was once in.

“He was right there. We could have ended this.” Your voice is soft and void of emotion.

“It wouldn’t have stopped anything, he’s not the only spawn who hates me my love.” Astarion wraps his arms around you and pulls you into him, pressing your back against his chest. “Can we just take some healing potions, draw a bath and call it a day please? I refuse to let them get in the way.” He spins you around to face him and he puts on his best puppy pout. All the frustration leaves you and is swiftly replaced with warmth as you stare into those crimson pools, diving straight in and never wanting to resurface. You lift yourself on your tiptoes, wrapping your arms around his neck and you place a soft kiss on his lips.

“Girlfriend, huh?” Your smile presses against his lips and you feel him smile in return.

“Was that term not to your liking? How about… love of my life?” He kisses your forehead. "Wind beneath my wings?” He plants a kiss on your cheek. “The air in my lungs?” You feel a kiss on your jawline. “The beat of my cold heart?” A soft kiss meets your neck.

“Hmm, any of those will do, I suppose.” You flash him a playful smile as he arches his brow at you and his eyes dance to life. He goes to scoop you up but winces remembering the wounds that are still fresh on his body and yours. “Here, drink this.” You hand him a healing potion and take one for yourself chugging down the contents, already feeling a warmth spread over you. “Let’s get a bath going, we can pour a small extra healing potion in it as well to help speed the process.”

After a few moments you and Astarion are lounging in a warm tub. He sits behind you and you lean back into him resting your head in the crook of his neck with your eyes closed. He exhales slowly and wraps his arms around you pulling you in closer. “I love this.” He whispers out as he rests his head on the lip of the tub. “Me too.” You whisper back, your eyes still closed as you inhale deeply and release the air.

“Astarion?” You shift your head slightly to look at his face.

“Yes my sweet?” He glances down at you smiling.

“I never thought to ask… if you had thought about being with Sebastian when you first saw he was alive?” You are not necessarily worried about the answer to this question… more curious than anything.

“Little love… nothing compares to you, to what we have. When I saw him, I briefly wondered what I would do myself… but that would have meant losing you to chase something from my past that I have come to realise was not even close to love. What you and I have… its unlike anything I have ever experienced and I don’t ever want to lose that.” He continues to stare into your eyes as if searching them to see if his words have landed in your heart.

“I love you.” The three words spill from your mouth as you shift yourself around and pull him into deep long kiss.

“And I love you. We’ll get through this spawn situation, we’ll find a way to deal with it. We always do, but for now lets just enjoy some peace and quiet?” You nod your head in agreement as he pulls you in tightly and kisses you tenderly.

As you both finish your bath you pull a book from your dresser and hand it to Astarion as you climb into bed. He walks to the other side and props up some cushions to support his back as he sits up on the bed. You snuggle yourself in as he begins to read to you and the two of you spend the rest of your time like this until rest finds you.

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