#genuinely I think I enjoy reading about and thinking/talking about tavs & durges more than the canon characters lmao

[spiritsong]

HI ↓

are you similarly gripped by bg3 and find that it just won't leave you alone? do you mostly blog about bg3? do you have tavs and/or durges that you make up lore for and love talking about/would want to talk about them more??? LET'S FOLLOW EACH OTHER???

[astarionconsort]

Ascendant Astarion was driven by fear, but can you really blame him?

Okay so I just read the newest interview that mentioned Astarion reasoning behind his ascension was driven by fear and I thought it made sense?

Tho I don't believe that fear was the only force behind the reason of his decision to ascend, there's a longing to be alive again to enjoy everything that the world has to offer, the need for certainty and also to protect his loved ones (when he has a love interest)

But let's talk about this fear part, there are people (even the companions) who expected that 'he should have known better' or 'shouldnt even think about ascension' and sees this fear in the recent interview as something that is so horrid but here's the thing.

"You are right to be afraid." I mean DUH obviously it makes sense. Astarion lives in a very dangerous world where countless undead risen from their graves thanks to necromancer toying with life and death, there are bandits everywhere, monsters, evil gods who never failed to make life even more miserable than ever and even the supposedly good aligned god can be so awful at times, etc etc.

The party that he traveled with and himself were infected with worms that would eat their brain and transformed them into a living husk, the absolute cult and the dead three were on their tail, angry devils, Cazador wanted him back and not to mention the Githyanki and their lich queen wanted them dead as well for what happened with the prism

Even during act 3 where they were supposedly close to victory. The victory was not set in stone yet, nothing is certain and something could have gone wrong. They could have died or even worse!

Not to mention he's a man who was tormented for 200 hundred years. He was stripped of everything that he had and even his own reflection, reduced to catched rats to sustain himself.

Can you really blame him for wanting to seek a way out from Cazador's torment, the hunger for blood and the indignity that he suffered for so long?

Also it would be harder to convince him to not ascend if Tav or Durge romanced him. Because now he's not just afraid for his own safety and his future but also his lover. The only person whom he ever love and genuinely love him back in 200 years (also not ending up as a victim for Cazador)

Most people would have killed him when they found that he's a vampire and infected with an Illithid parasite. Most people would have abandoned him

Tav/Durge was the only light in his life after years of living in darkness and torment, you can't really blame him for wanting to keep this light from being snuffed out by untimely death

And if that means sacrificed 7000 souls that he already damned anyway (undead like vampire wouldn't be accepted by good aligned gods in the after life, not sure about evil gods but most deities most won't accept them) so be it

I don't see this fear behind his decision as something that is objectively awful? I mean it is a natural respond anyone would have if they were in his shoes

Then you might ask "If Astarion loves Tav or Durge that much why he insisted on turning them into a vampire? And break up if they refused?"

Because he was overwhelmed by his beating heart/ his renewed sense, the high from his power and he's also insecure. At that point in act 3 he expected Tav and Durge to stand by his side no matter what

Because they were the only person who didn't kill the parasite infested vampire spawn at the beach, who loves him anyway despite the face he was a man with nothing to his name, who were willing to sacrifice 7000 souls and killed the Gur for him!

Ascended Astarion didn't want THAT special person to be taken by early death or a fate worse than death

He needed the reassurance that his love would be safe and no gods nor fate will take them away

If they refused to be an immortal vampire then they were as good as sealed their fate to death. Astarion didn't want to face that heartbreak

The thing that I don't agree with the interview is that the interpretation that ascension sent him to a horrible place? It was kinda vague? Like worse place when? During or after the ascension? Because this cannot apply after the ascension since I have taken so many screenshot and recording of ascendant astarion and I didn't see him feeling miserable about his fate. He was happy that the hunger gone and he could see his reflection again

Post final battle? The epilogue? After the epilogue party? This cannot be applied to all people, all route, all Tav/Durge and Astarion in general because there's variations. I mean you might see ascended Astarion as a bit lonely because he doesn't end up with anyone but in my Tav's universe he has a consort who stay by his side and their relationship is still going strong because my Tav is aligned with him

[yenabeans]

this is for my previous reblog doing the Baldur's Gate 3 Companion!Tav Ask List 👀👀👀

this was so fun to write, I highly encourage giving it a try with your beloved tavs/durges. I'd like to see what this would look like with my completely separate evil durge Melantha, but this is Kate's

I did every one for my girl because I had time to spare, that was fun and challenging. Not completely accurate to my AU, but still fun nonetheless to wonder what would happen if she was in that timeline. Enjooooy ⏬️⏬️

if you want me to elaborate on any, pls let me knowwwww I love talking about Kate.

for notes going in, she's paired with Astarion and Raphael

General

1. Where can your Tav be recruited?  Are they first encountered on the Nautiloid, or in the Nautiloid crash region?  Or are they not recruitable until a later act?

A. Her first appearance would be in Act 1 when Raphael teleports the PC to the House of Hope. She wouldn't interact with the PC, but she could probably be seen eating at the table or watching from afar in the inner balcony. She would later be recruitable in Act 3 in Sharess' Caress only if the PC accepts Raphael's deal.

2. Do the other companions have special comments or reactions upon recruiting your Tav?

A. They would most likely be wary and more on the untrustworthy side of her in the beginning given her devilish background. Given that though, they wouldn't help but feel an overpowering charm come from her that compells them to trust and listen to her.

3. Does your Tav have any comments or advice when you recruit other companions?

A. She's good at reading people (and their minds) so she would give her honest opinion based on wether the companion would be helpful or a hindrance.

She's wary of Shadowheart. Keeps her distance from Lae'zel. Has respect for Karlach and Wyll, and enjoys conversations with Gale. She adores Halsin and isn't too fond of Minthara.

4. What sort of general actions raise or lower their approval?

A. This will be a long one. Despite her history of being in the hells and around Raphael, she's actually pretty good aligned, to an extent. She'd sacrifice 1000+ people to save one animal any day of the week, so she's no saint. But usually, she'll try to do her best to help all she can, so good deeds will gain her approval. But above all else, how animals/creatures are treated dictates how she thinks. Pet a cat? 5 approval easy. Help an animal in need? +10 every time. The same is 10x worse if actions are taken against animals. Any help to a person who has a history of harming animals/nature, she'll disapprove of (or worse). Even if said history happened a long time ago. Other things she would disapprove of are being blatantly rude for no reason, especially to people who are genuinely kind (like Alfira for example).

5. Are there any instances where your Tav can permanently leave the party, depending on player character actions?

A. Like I touched on in the last question, animal treatment is her biggest thing. If the PC were to cause any harm to an animal themselves, she would permanently leave or even start combat considering how bad the action was. Yes she would get Raphael involved, enjoy that fight

6. Do they have any secrets that can be revealed?  What are the prerequisites for this secret coming to light?

A. She has a pretty dark past, and unironically, her back is full of scars and brands that she keeps hidden away as well. She wouldn't openly talk about her past to anyone unless they were romantically involved, so unless that happens, it is unlikely.

Other than that, she has some pretty insane powers given to her from Raphael/the crown. But she wouldn't use them unless absolutely necessary, say the party is about to be obliterated. She would swoop in and save the party before then

7. Do they have their own personal quest that spans the course of the game?  Can it take different branching paths depending on the choices the Player Character makes?

A. Honestly, probably not too much since most of her time is spent in Avernus/the rest of Baator. In my AU, the Crown of Karsus is already in their possession so it doesn't really align with the BG3 timeline. Unless it's changed in this case and the crown was stolen from her and Raphael rather than Mephistopheles and the deal is for the PC to return the crown to the rightful owners 👀 Help her finish taking over Baator and maybe you'll get rewarded handsomely.

8. What do they say when the Player Character asks them to stay in camp?  How about when the Player Character asks them to come adventuring again?

A. Staying: "Wonderful, I will be with Scratch and the Owlbear if you need me. If I am no where to be found, call my name and I will find you."

if she's not with the animals, she's back in Avernus tending to Raphael lmao

Joining (space in party): "My flames are yours. Lead the way."

Joining (no space): "Your group is too crowded. My wings need space to stretch, so lose someone already."

9. Does your Tav have any escalating conflicts with one of the other companions, like Lae’zel and Shadowheart’s knife-fight?

A. She would keep to herself and mind her business as long as everyone respected nature. If they want to kill each other, she would silently watch from afar. In my AU she's also paired with Astarion so she'd be in his tent minding her business. (and about him and the previous animal quarrels, she makes sure he only feeds on her or enemies. or the companions, whatever baby wants)

10. Are there any unique NPCs associated with your Tav that can show up during the course of the game?

A. She deeply respects Halsin to no surprise. They have never physically met before, but they have spoken together through his meditations or her telepathy. And through the animal's gossip. She was deeply elated to finally meet him and the grove she heard so much about. Raphael is another obvious one. He would pop in from time to time to check on her and get updates. Her and Haarlep have a fun potential interaction with the PC *wink*

11. Are there any moments in the game that trigger unique dialogue for your character? (Like Gale’s anecdote about the barfight after you save the goblin prisoner) 

A. She would probably have some dialogue in the circus, especially with the caged displacer beast and dinosaur. I also think she would help the party talk down Nessa from the fight with Yurgir and get the eagles to give back the nest without the unnecessary killing. Pretty much anything animal related, she's there.

Story Specific

1. How does your Tav advise the player character when it comes to the Dream Visitor?

A. Much to Raphael's influence she would stress not to trust them and be very wary that they do not have the players best interest at heart. Trust in her and Raphael, they are your saviours.

2. How do they advise the player character on Raphael?

A. During the first interaction in the HoH, she would just sit there watching the player silently grinning, no doubt. Later in Act 3, if the deal is accepted, Raphael offers her to the player to aid them along (and to keep an eye on them. Korrilla needs a break sometimes)

She would sing his praises and urge them to trust in what he says. If the Player fully intends to take his deal, great. She'll play along and help. If the player intends to break into the house and break the contract, she'll be there waiting.

3. How do they react to Astarion biting the Player Character?

A. She keeps a close eye on things to make sure the player doesn't attack him. If the Player is drained and perishes, she'll express her disappointment in the spawn and prompty revive them before Raphael has a chance to know what happened.

4. How do they react to the Player Character letting Abdirak whip them?

A. She would probably keep her distance, since seeing that would potentially bring up some bad memories. But her best friend is an incubus and her lover is Raphael so she's pretty unphased to the sight by now.

5. How do they react to the Player Character taking their first tadpole power?

A. She would be fascinated and would enjoy watching the new powers in action. She would comment on how it must feel to have so many worms crawling around in their brain. (she is not tadpoled)

6. Will they stay with the Player Character regardless of siding with the goblins or the tieflings, or is it possible for them to leave the party permanently?

A. Hmmm she's not recruitable until Act 3, but she is definitely watching them from the beginning, so it would definitely have a big impact.

Siding with the tieflings would obviously be the correct path to get her recruitable. I think if the grove was betrayed, she would throw a Mephistopheles sized fit and most likely talk Raphael into killing them, but since that's not a plausible game choice, it would probably continue how the game is without her. But the later interaction with Haarlep would only result in a fight, as she would be there. (this is touched on in a later question)

7. What can they be found doing at the tiefling/goblin party?

A. Like Korrilla, she would be there keeping an eye on things. She would make sure the animals are tended to and being well taken care of after the battle.

8. Do they have comments on who the Player Character chooses to spend the night with? 

A. this is tricky with Astarion since he wouldn't really be a romance option with my AU. If the Player sought him out, she would definitely be listening in to hear his response.

Lae'zel she would joke not to get too crazy and kill each other

She thinks a night with Gale would be full of magic and an unforgettable experience

A night with Shadowheart would be interesting. She senses a lot is locked behind her facade, many deep conversations would be told one day.

She believes anyone would be lucky to be with a gentleman like Wyll, he's devoted, sweet, not to mention the dancing.

Her and Karlach would have an interesting relationship. Rocky at first, for sure, given Karlach's hatred for the hells and devils. but I think they would be good friends after some conversations. Kate would be happy for Karlach finally having someone to hold and care for her.

9. Do they have unique dialogue if the Player Character lets them die when they steal the Blood of Lathander?

A. No, but I think Raphael would show up and chew the player out which is hilarious

10. How do they react if the PC licks the dead spider in the Gauntlet of Shar?

A. name any creature of the material plane or Baator and she will communicate and be best friends with it, but nearly any bug or insect and she will run away screaming. She is shuttering and judging the PC greatly from afar.

11. What do they say if the PC tries to force them to go up on stage with Dribbles the Clown?

A. She has prior history with circuses so she will have no trouble going up and entertaining! Until they try to kill her, of course.

12. Is it possible for your Tav to be kidnapped and replaced by Orin?  How is Orin's deception revealed?  How do they react to the PC rescuing them in the Temple of Bhaal?

A. I think that would be really interesting to write about, but I don't think Raphael would ever allow that to happen. If for some super off chance it did happen, Orin's deception would most likely be broken by her mannerisms, she's very dog like in how she acts/stands idle, etc. Always tilting her head/ears in directions of noises. Alerts to squirrels/small animals passing. Her ears and nose also wiggle a lot, and her tongue has a mind of its own. She will pant if overheated. The tail is always wagging. I could go on

13. How do they react to the PC either allowing Astarion to ascend or convincing him to spare the 7000 spawn?

A. Again, this interferes with my timeline in the AU. They were alone when facing Cazador. Plus, Stari becomes a full vampire without ascending in mine 👀. based on the game, though, if the PC was there and they had control, she would be relieved to see him stay a spawn and incredibly proud. But would be intimidated/greatly upset to see him ascend and take Cazador's place and would probably leave him.

14. How does Tav react to the PC becoming a mind flayer?  Can they offer to become one themselves?  Does their reaction change if they’re romanced?

A. She wouldn't treat them any differently, appearances change just as hers did when she used the crown for the first time. She would defend them against Raphael's disgust.

She would not offer to become one, as Astarion and Raphael would both probably leave her lmao.

If the PC did enter a romance with her, she would still love them the same and would be open to the joys of the new appendages. But she would greatly miss their old self. Hopefully, Haarlep could help with that.

15. How do they react when the Dark Urge first reveals their amnesia and murderous thoughts to them?

A. She is no stranger to dark thoughts, her mind is her greatest enemy. Her thoughts are not of bloodlust but they always convince her that she is incable of being loved, ugly, not good enough etc. She knows it is not the same as their thoughts so she can't understand how exactly they feel, but she greatly sympathises with them.

16. How do they react to the Dark Urge killing Alfira?

A. She's heartbroken, honestly. She had high hopes and respect for the bard. She is furious at first for the murder, but (depending on the durge) learns to accept that their thoughts were too loud. However, if the durge acts upon their urges with pride, she is less to forgive, and the disapproval would be piling up.

17. If romanced, how do they react to the Dark Urge trying to kill them in Act 2?

A. More similar to Astarion's reaction. Her urge is to help. She'll likely use some magic to restrict their movements until their mind has quietened down. She would remain by their side, gently talking and trying different grounding methods with them.

Romance

1. Is your Tav a romanceable character?  Are there any specific requirements to romancing them?

A. It would probably be a quick fling or just another method for her to use to secure the contract in getting the crown back. Though, the more the player shows respect for nature, the harder she will fall.

2. Does your Tav need to be flirted with to start the romance, or will they approach the PC themselves if approval is high enough?

A. She will not make the first move, no matter how high approval is. She is in relationships already, so she only uses her charm if it's necessary. The PC would have to provoke the first move.

3. Are they a polyamorous or a monogamous option?

A. She is polyamorous

4. Do they have a special romance scene at the tiefling/goblin party?

A. Nope, since she's just there to spy at that moment.

5. Does the romance have different branching paths, or just one route to take?

A. If the romance did get serious, the PC probably has the option to stay in the palace in Baldur's Gate or they could take up residence in the House of Hope in Avernus. Or they could travel to and from like Astarion does.

6. How do they react to the player character breaking up with them, or choosing another character over them?

A. She would be a bit surprised to be broken up with honestly. She always has people flaunting over her, never breaking off from her. She would be curious to the reason why but respect the decision in the end.

The same goes for choosing someone over her. Though, her mind will tell her she wasn't good enough and that she shouldn't be surprised no matter the reason given.

7. What questions can Zethino ask the PC about Tav in the Love Test? 

going all out in this one

Question 1. Out of all the creatures in the realms who were or still are, which are her favourites?

Answer 1 (wrong): oh, that's easy. Humans

Response: Is that supposed to be a joke? Please tell me that is a joke.

Answer 2 (correct): she seemed pretty fond of the hyenas and cattle.

Response: You are quite perceptive. I adore those creatures very much. Though best to adore them separately for safety reasons.

Answer 3 (correct): she favours and cares for all creatures, no matter where they are from. Or how dangerous..

Response: I could not think of a better answer than that. You know me perfectly well, it seems.

Question 2. In the time a battle arises, what position would she take?

Answer 1 (wrong): She hides in the back while we do the hard work.

Response: Hilarious truly, who was it that saved your arse last time again?

Answer 2 (medium): The frontlines, she does most of the fighting for us.

Response: Sweet as that is, it is hardly fair or true. Everyone does their equal part when the time arises.

Answer 3 (correct): If she can't talk the battle down, she plays both offence and defence. Whatever part we need.

Response: You flatterer. It is an honour to fight alongside you when the time comes.

Question 3. Behind all power and authority, there is vulnerability. What does Kate fear most?

Answer 1 (wrong): the day that devil will betray and kill her.

Response: You are projecting, darling. Raphael does not stand a chance against me.

Answer 2 (correct, but disapproves): Seeing an animal get brutally killed would shut her down pretty quick.

Response: Are you serious? Yes..but did you have to be so blunt about it? You have no idea the pictures you just put in my head for the next week.

Answer 3 (correct): Seeing harm come to anyone she holds dear.

Response: That would destroy me. That is why I will protect the ones I love with everything I have until the day I die.

8. If they’re poly, do they have a reaction to the PC engaging in a relationship with Halsin?

A. She is allllll for it. Just please invite her. Please

9. How do they react if the PC has sex with Mizora? The Emperor?  Haarlep?

A. Mizora: she would be disappointed. Are you really choosing another devil over her??? She would joke about it more than anything though, no big deal

Emperor: don't worry, sign a contract with her and she'll keep this a secret from Raphael. Do you really want to sit through that lecture?

Haarlep: oh Haarlep, I've been waiting for this one. It depends on the choices the PC has made. Sooo:

Betrayed grove: sorry, no play time with Haarlep. They are both awaiting your arrival into the boudoir to kill you.

Accepted deal, here to break contract: she is all for indulging, have your fun with Haarlep, she'll even join if you wish. But make no mistake, she will gladly join Raphael when it's time to kill you.

No deal, here to steal hammer: pretty much the same as if you accepted the deal, but with different dialogue as Kate would not have been recruitable this path.

-Bonus- Accepted deal, not here to break contract, just here for a good time: she'll laugh at your ambition, breaking into her home and all. As long as you don't touch anything besides her and Haarlep, she'll gladly keep this little escapade a secret from Raphael. (she has her fingers crossed, though, but you don't know that)

10. Will they join in with the PC and the Drow Twins, or no?

A. Respectfully no. She'll let the PC have their fun with them but she will use the time to get some work done in the Devil's Den.

11. What are Tav’s plans for the future?  Do they propose to the PC, or is marriage not something they’re interested in?

A. If the romance develops into something real and the contract is fulfilled, marriage is totally an option. Raphael might even allow them a room in the House of Hope as they take over the hells.

12. Free space! Share anything from your companion!Tav au!

A. quick summary of my AU timelinethe way my timeline works is that Astarion got tadpoled and escaped from Cazador. but instead of waiting on the beach, he fled and ran as far as he could until he ran into Kate. He just wanted her blood at first but it developed into real feelings which terrified him. After opening up to each other, they set out to Baldur's Gate to confront Cazador. Before that though they knew they had to figure out what Astarion's scars said when -poof- they meet Raphael for the first time. They take care of Yurgir, Raph gives them the answers and they set off to the city. All is well until the devil realises he can't get that annoying mutt off his mind so he follows them and watches their journey as she frees Astarion, he makes his move, bang bong boom now they're all in love. Kate managed to sneak off to Cania with the help of Haarlep to weasel her way in to get Mephistopheles to hand over the crown. what can I say her charisma is like 30 or something lmaooooo

a lot of details were left out but that's the basic basic gist. a lot of its probably not accurate to real dnd lore especially around her relationships with some of the archdevils but it's my world. this was so fun to write, I've never actually written her story like this before

Bonus: might throw in some greetings based on approval 👀

Low Approval Greetings:

"what in the hells do you want."

"to what do I owe the displeasure?"

if she didn't speak, she would just begin to grab her sword and glare until they spoke

Medium Approval Greetings:

"Raphael is over there, please go see him instead"

"speak plainly"

"hm?"

High Approval Greetings:

"oh, hello. Can I help you with something?"

"there you are, yes?"

"come to chat, have you?"

Exceptional Approval Greetings:

"oh, I was hoping I would get to see you today"

"you cleared my clouds away. What can I do?"

"you always make me smile, please speak to me"

Romanced Greetings:

"hello, you. come to me"

"I am most delighted to see your face. Now let me hear your voice"

"say the word, and I am yours, my love"