#if there’s no Wyll defenders I have died

[gaylittleguys]

it’s actually so fucked up and evil that random white npcs from bg3 that show up twice got more dedicated fans than Wyll

[autistichalsin]

Not enough people know that it is possible to have Halsin come for revenge if you raid the Grove.

I think that in the full release version, they made it so you have to have rescued Halsin first for it to trigger. You also have to long rest in the Grove area; possibly multiple times, I'm not sure.

But it is possible.

And once triggered. Halsin will come to your camp for revenge, and there is no way to talk him down; as he says, his mercy died the instant he saw the Grove. You are forced to kill him and the animal defenders he brought with him.

Then you're treated to your character and companions laughing about it, saying things like "first Druid, and now last Druid, thanks to us." (Or, in some cases, being sympathetic, such as Origin!Karlach or Wyll. There are also lines that were programmed in earlier versions for Karlach and Wyll as companions, suggesting that they weren't always going to leave if the raid was chosen- Karlach would say, "We deserved that attack. And he deserved better" at this point, for example.)

I wish this scene triggered automatically instead of being contingent on long resting in the same area- it would be a lot more poignant for players to be faced with the consequences in the form of an enraged, grief-stricken Halsin.

If you're curious, here's a video with all the options!

[mllemaenad]

Listening to Wyll's backstory in context of all the details we're acquiring on devil's contracts and soul selling is fascinating.

See - I listened to Lann Tarv's three tales to get my soul coins. I felt bad for making Karlach listen to that, obviously, but to be honest I didn't even want the coins that much. I actually wanted the stories. I wanted a better understanding of how this works.

And what I'm learning is - for the gods (and godlike beings) of this world, cruelty seems to be the point. I mean - it's possible there's a god in this world I wouldn't want to stab to death with a rusty fork, but if so I have not met them yet.

These beings have the power to save people and places, to change lives, to do anything. And when someone asks them to - they demand a terrible price. But they don't just demand a price. They subvert the original request in such a way that they utterly fail to deliver on the original promise.

An abused woman wishes to be loved - and her true love appears, but dies instantly. A man wishes to save his children from starvation, and ends up personally growing masses of meat on his own body - not only painful for him, but forcing his children into survival cannibalism, which they were trying to avoid.

Auntie Ethel works the same way. Every one of her customers is left in a tortured state, while Ethel still takes her payment.

The idea is that the person must come to regret their wish long before the payment comes due. Every cry for help must be met with a boot to the face. Or else the mortals will get uppity? Or something.

What is interesting is how consciously Wyll defies that. And how much Mizora is dancing around, trying to force him into that state of miserable regret.

Wyll was manipulated into selling his soul. He was a kid, and he was summoned into a terrible situation - and in that moment, he could see no other way to save the city. Mizora did need to save Baldur's Gate to serve her boss's purposes, so she couldn't take that victory from him - but she did everything she could to take the joy of it.

He didn't get respect, or admiration, or his father's pride for saving the city. He lost his home and his family. He was assumed to have done something monstrous because he was denied an opportunity to defend himself.

That was supposed to fill him with bitterness and regret - but he got to work building his own life instead. By the time you run into him, the Blade of Frontiers is a hero of some renown. He's remade himself, and found a way to enjoy what his powers can do, however he came by them.

So that didn't work.

Then Mizora sent him after Karlach, and that was a mission tailored to break him. Karlach is kind and heroic herself, and that the start she has been sold into slavery, mutilated and forced to fight in a war against her will. If Wyll killed her, and then found out who she really was, then he betrayed everything the Blade of Frontiers is supposed to stand for - and he would lose the life he made for himself.

But he didn't, and that didn't work either. He's got a friend, now, who at least knows part of what he's dealing with.

So Mizora gave him demonic features. That would destroy the life he's made for himself, because no one would trust him to help them.

Except now Wyll basically goes nowhere on his own, and a small army of people can attest that he got those horns and eyes as punishment for being a good man. Mizora might be able to shut his mouth, but she can't silence his friends - and the group absolutely have shouting sessions about everything. Wyll's horns become a battle scar, like his missing eye, and nothing more.

And beyond that, if you are playing as a heroic character, a significant throughline in the game's story is the journey of the tiefling refugees. The story makes it clear that these people experience a constant barrage of racism, due to their appearance and "demonic" heritage. It also makes it abundantly clear that this prejudice is entirely undeserved - they're just people, with virtues and flaws like everyone else, and what is happening to them is terrible. So Wyll turns up to assist a bunch of people whom he now at least somewhat resembles - and with Karlach along, you have two people in the group who technically count as "infernal", but haven't got an evil bone in either of their bodies.

Mizora created solidarity. Oops.

Wyll is deeply suspicious of gods and higher powers. He doesn't want to make more deals with devils. When Elminster arrives to tell Gale what Mystra demands of him, he explicitly says he does not do religion. When you get Mizora to agree to let his contract expire in six months, he starts by casually invoking the gods - but switches to thanking the player character instead, because he knows who helped, and who did not.

But he utterly refuses to regret the pact he made. That can be a struggle. He clearly misses his dad, and would like that relationship repaired. The fact that he was transformed very much against his will is clearly a source of distress from him.

But if he regrets, then Mizora wins. That's it. Game over. She gets what she wanted all along. So he doesn't.

The main companion characters all have this kind of problem, and naturally have different ways of dealing with it. You have characters like Shadowheart and Lae'zel, who were indoctrinated as children, or Gale, who was literally seduced by one of these nightmare deities - and with them you have to start out by convincing them they they were the wronged party in the first place.

But Wyll knows exactly what game he's playing, and he's been screaming defiance the whole time. It's just that, in his case, the "defiance" is grinning and carrying on every time Mizora inflicts some more bullshit on him.

[brekkie-e]

Are we going to talk about how hard Wyll swerved when his mom came up? “Oh yeah, my mom died when I was a baby and was unable to form an opinion on anything that’s happened to me or defend me when my dad cast me out. I don’t think about it though. I’m cool. I don’t ever stay up at night wondering if she’d have given me the same look of disappointment as he did, or if she’d have taken one look at my freshly scarred face and missing eye and swooped me up in her arms to comfort me. I don’t wonder if her being alive would have prevented Mizorra from being able to take advantage of me in the first place. Honestly? I kind of forget people even have moms? I mean like. What’s a mom?”

I mean, the dynamic with his dad was woefully underdeveloped as is. I want to really dig in to how much hurt Wyll is hiding behind that smile of his, and how complicated his relationship with his dad is now. But if his dynamic with his dad is underdeveloped- the grief for his mom simply doesn’t exist. Which simply isn’t how humans work. It might not be front and center for him all the time, but her absence would be a presence all in its self.

[sparrowsarus]

A defense of Ulder Ravengard

Ulder Ravengard starts his life as the 4th son of a blacksmith, and it is implied that Ravengard Senior talks in grunts, and hardly acknowledged his children.

So with that foundation, a young Ulder fucks off and joins the Flaming Fist--a mercenary company with an identity crisis, cops and soldiers and mercs, and damn is Baldur's Gate's government dysfunctional.

At some point, he falls in love with a woman named Francesca, who dies in childbirth. That's all we get of her--and that only if you happen to read some flavour text on Ulder's sword. He tells his crying son that it will be alright, and he doesn't seem to believe it.

It is much, much easier to get the other flavour text on Ulder's mace--how he didn't want to be like his father, but felt a distance between him and his newborn son. Some people say this is proof that Ulder never loved Wyll--I think it says he just lost the woman he loved, and was now facing single parenthood with no baseline to work off of. He was going to be doing this from scratch, with no help nor role model. He's going to be a little distraught!

But. He has his son. Who he takes to the harbour, and teaches to swordfight, and is really a very hands-on guy! His kid runs a little wild (having the childhood Ulder never got to have; maybe being a little too lenient, since Wyll's only a boy.)

And then he watches his boss, a beloved figure in the Gate and son of Bhaal, get ripped apart--and he can do nothing. Even as the new Marshal, trying to run an investigation with the God of Murder whispering paranoia in his ear.

There is hysteria. There are riots.

There are tribunals, and I won't defend them, but--Bhaal, trying to corrupt and coerce. It is important to remember--Ulder is a hero to the people of Baldur's Gate. He will go to the Gods when he dies. What a fantastic prize for the God of murder.

But Ulder manages to escape that fate, and at some point he becomes Grand Duke. A real success story--the poor blacksmith's boy becoming the leader of one of the Sword Coast's biggest cities. A position he had to fight for, because Baldur's Gate's politics are run by hereditary gentry and the wealthy guildleaders. Ulder Ravengard is an outsider, and the last commoner duke was aligned with devils.

And Wyll, his boy, learns to dance, and charm the Upper Crust of the Gate, and get into fights with his father--who had to learn politics, and to work with people he hated, because no, the Glorious Revolution will never come to pass. You need to work with people towards a common goal even when you hate them.

And one day, Ulder leaves for a meeting with another city's leader--

and when he gets back, his 17 year old son, his boy, the child his wife had died for--

has a devil with him and won't (can't, but Ulder doesn't know that yet) tell him what is going on. Wyll takes him to Dusthawk Hill, to see nothing.

So Ulder exiles him, because, again, devil.

(Sidenote: Devils in D&D are Ontologically Evil. Full stop. People who ally with them are generally assumed to be evil. Take it up with WoTC. UIder did nothing wrong regarding the exile, because he has to look out for an entire city, and Wyll was considered a grown man in his society by 15. This is not the actions of a child, and to treat it as such is a disservice to Wyll.)

(Wyll would always have to leave.)

And seven years later, Ulder Ravengard goes on a diplomatic visit, and gets dragged down to the Hells, along with the city of Elturel. He tries his best to save the city, to fight the demons, to manage the defenses. He tries so, so hard.

And once Elturel is restored, Ulder heads home.

(The tiefling refugees are headed to Baldur's Gate; I wonder if Ulder had promised safety? Sanctuary? A home less judgemental than Elturel?)

But on the way back to The Gate, Ulder is kidnapped, forcibly mind controlled, and damn near scrambles his brain fighting that control.

(Note: he tells Florrick to look for Wyll. He still believes there is some good in him, that Wyll is not wholly the devil's creature. But he's afraid, too, because if Wyll did it for a good reason? Ulder has failed. And you do not go from blacksmith's son to Grand Duke if you are tolerant of you own failures.

Wyll saves his father. Wyll proves he did what he thought was right.

Wyll gets an apology, and his father's support, either becoming a duke or becoming a ranger--everything Wyll wanted from his father..

And a family is rebuilt--different from before, but there is no harm in that. Both of them putting in the work to fix things, because you need to meet each other halfway--give the other person space to apologize, and forgive, because that's what they both wanted.

[coreene]

Zethino's Love Test Questions

So... I am writing about the love test Zethino the Dryad gives you at the circus and it made me realize I should make it so both my Tav and their partner answer the questions.

While I think about what the answers (and questions) for my Tav would be - here are Zethino's questions (with every companion) so you can ponder them for your Tavs and Durges.

This will be long so they are under the cut

Shadowheart

Shadowheart: an endless storm surges behind sharp eyes. Listen. Think. From where does Shadowheart draw comfort on a cold, dark night?

The heart craves comfort, but needs respect. How does one earn the dark-haired maiden's respect?

Shame sits in the soul of all - to tame it, we must name it. Shadowheart - what is her deepest shame?

Lae'zel

Lae'zel: passions of the heart and the blade wage war in her soul. Listen. Think. What does she most desire?

Many things delight the heart, but only one makes it sing. Tell me, what is the githyanki's fondest memory?

Life is brief - finite. When the warrior dies, what legacy will she leave behind?

Karlach

Karlach: her fire within can incinerate an enemy or warm a beloved.  Listen. Think. Who does she loathe above all others?

Many things delight the heart, but only one makes it sing. Tell me, what is her idea of a perfect day?

The sweetest loves dance lightly on the tongue. But they sag and suffer with age. The future brings many trials. A decade from now, what will the mighty Karlach do? Where will she be?

Astarion

Astarion: a tumultuous past hides behind a mirthful grin. The heart is fraught, so let us begin with the joyous. When is he happiest?

Many things delight the heart, but only one makes it sing. Tell me, what does he desire more than anything?

Fear sits in the soul of all - to tame it, we must name it. Astarion - what is his deepest fear?

Wyll

Wyll: the courageous heart tormented by the infernal. Listen. Think. What, on his darkest day, would make him smile?

We cannot live this life without others - others to guide us. To aspire to. Who does the Blade most admire?

Life is a difficult and tumultuous thing. With every smile, a tear often follows. What is Wyll's greatest regret?

Gale

Gale: the learned wizard. The charming gentleman. The walking apocalypse. Listen. Think. If the wizard were given the choice, what food would he be?

The heart is fraught, so let us turn to the joyous. When is Gale happiest?

We often gaze through a veil of roses, but love accepts both the petal and the thorn. Gale - what is his greatest flaw?

Minthara

Minthara: a mask of ice hides a heart of pure fire - you do well to call her close. Listen. Think. What does the drow miss most about the Underdark?

Many pass through our lives, their touch rippling across time. But who does Minthara admire the most?

Those with an icy façade hide their true selves well - but pain breaks us all in the end. What is the worst thing your love has ever done?

Halsin

Halsin: nature's gentle steward - and furious defender. Listen. Think. When is he most comfortable?

We strive to do our utmost - to prove ourselves worthy. Tell me - of what is Halsin most proud?

Life is full of victory and loss. You cannot have one without the other. Halsin - what is his greatest failure?

[m3rricat]

Advocatus Ardens - Ch. 19

>>Read on AO3<<

Pairing: Wyll/Astarion

Rating: M

Wyllstarion slow burn set in a modern-with-magic-lurking-there AU Baldur's Gate and later Sigil; public defender attorney!Wyll (aged up to 30s) and client!Astarion (still a vampire)

Chapter preview:

It took thirty minutes and a few more rows before Astarion said anything at all. His touch had gotten sure by then. The scratch of the comb on Wyll’s scalp felt wonderful, almost as good as the firm pressure as Astarion worked each loc. “So, did your father have such a magnificent head of hair once? I can’t help but note the stark difference,” Astarion ventured. One of his legs slid forward as he craned over Wyll’s head.

“No. He lost most of it early, he told me once,” Wyll replied, feeling the sudden touch of memory. His father re-twisting his hair as tentatively as Astarion’s first attempts. The weight of his grief swelling behind Wyll— “He started shaving it off as soon as his hairline retreated,” Wyll heard himself say.

Astarion snorted lightly. “Of course. I’m glad you're not like him in that, at least.”

Wyll was stuck in remembering, now. He thought he had forgotten. It had been twenty years back at least, but it was roaring forward now like it was yesterday, pushing out more words like vomit. “He wishes I had shaved it. He hated doing this, when I insisted on locs.”

“Oh? Ulder doing hair? I can’t quite picture it. I’m surprised he didn’t yank it all out accidentally, indelicate as he is.”

“No. You’re more firm than him with it than he was. He could barely—even after he did it for a year.” Wyll stared ahead without seeing. Only belatedly noticed that Astarion’s hands had stopped. “He would think about my mother the whole time. I knew, even though he never breathed a word.”

Astarion had stilled. He didn’t pull away. Didn’t stiffen. His attention was pointed on Wyll’s scalp. The weight of it pressed into Wyll, even far away as he felt. The words kept spilling in response, embarrassing and undignified. “She—you probably know, but she died right after I was born. She stood between us, sort of. An awful absence for him. Nonexistent for me. We could never—never reconcile that. When I was twelve I started being more interested in her, though. And in all the pictures around the house, she had locs. My father had helped her with them, he told me. Like we’re doing here. So one day I decided I wanted them. I thought dad would be happy.” Wyll shook his head, the locs secured on top of his head swaying. “You would have thought I gave him horrible news. He tried not to show it. And he did help me start them. I thought he might get better. Start seeing me when we—but he didn’t. So I started going to a salon instead. He never asked why.” And that had been some of the last intimate time they had really spent together. Ulder still kept up his duty as a father. And he did love Wyll. But Wyll was too tuned into his father now, into the nagging pain of loss that was with him always. That spiked ever so slightly when he saw Wyll, who held traces of the love of his life in his features.

[cammyyyydekarios]

Wasteland Baby,

I’m in Love with You

A Gale x f!Dark Urge fanfiction

Warning: 18+ readers only. Full tags on AO3

‼️spoilers for act 2 dark urge path‼️

Summary: Gale has a confession and Lilith is struggling with many complicated feelings.

Read on AO3 or under the cut

It was a cheerful night at the Last Light Inn - or, rather, as cheerful as the night could be in the shadowlands. The path to Moonrise Towers was grueling and dread still lingers on the edges of minds, especially Lilith’s.

The half-drow, half lost to her thoughts is nestled in the corner of the bar, drink in hand. Her urges have been harder to control - especially after seeing Isobel, her supposed ‘target’. After the initial shock and fear and murderous rage crossed her mind she had to defend the Selune cleric fiercely and suddenly. How the urges begged her to rip her throat out, to watch the blood gush from her wound while the life left her eyes. Instead, she settled for stabbing Fist Marcus until her wrist cramped, covered in his sticky blood and only half satisfied.

She disgusted herself. Worse, she terrified herself. She hated herself. She convinced herself the world would be better if she didn’t exist - that it would be easier if she was dead, and her urges along with her. But she lives - and knows she is needed in the fight against the Absolute. She needed to save her friends from becoming mindflayers. It was the least she could do, to right her ever growing list of wrongs.

So yes, tonight she broods in the corner of the bar, getting drunk on cheap wine and watching everyone around her celebrate. Seemed a fitting end of the night for her.

Her companions were all drinking and making merry. Perhaps too much merry, as Shadowheart looked as if she had too much to drink grasping onto Lae’zel’s shoulder for support. The gith scolds her and leads the cleric to the bedrooms of the inn. Wyll, Karlach and even Astarion are taking delight in watching Volo perform.

Lilith sighs and decides she’s had enough of the festivities for tonight. She begrudgingly lifts her hips from the stool and the frayed hem of her trousers catch on the chair, sending her stumbling forward. She braces herself for a fall, but is surprised by the feeling of strong hands on her hips holding her in place.

Her head tilts up, making eye contact with her mystery savior. A bratty quip about ‘keeping your hands to yourself’ dies on her lips when she meets warm brown eyes.

“Gale.” She breathes. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to-“

The wizard silences her with a smile. “It’s quite alright, Lilith. I was actually hoping to catch you before you retired to bed tonight.”

His hands were removed from her hips now. The heat of his touch lingered, rousing something deep in her gut.

She swallows nervously. “Here, or…?”

“I was actually wondering if you’d care to join me outside?” Gale asks, his tone giving way to his anxiety.

It would be better for her to keep her distance from the wizard - she knows she is dangerous. Anyone who gets close to her is in grave danger. She didn’t know consequences were in store for her now that she refused to kill Isobel after her butler’s order.

But Gale is Gale - kind, smart, handsome. Deserving of happiness. And for whatever reason, he desires her.

He’d expressed as much just mere hours earlier.

Then, her hair was wild, bloodied. The white strands were haphazardly pulled up and stained red. Her body shook with adrenaline from the battle with the shadow creatures. She was wiping blood from her face when Gale had approached her. She smiled as he appeared in front of her, but stood stock still when she saw the expression burning in his eyes. They were dilated, heavy lidded, wanting, even. He’d approached her, pressing his palm hard against her hip, making her gasp. The filthy words he whispered in her ear made her melt into his grasp like putty. He’d said she never more beautiful than in the heat of battle. He’d admitted his own desire and she could feel his growing arousal as he pressed himself against her.

As quickly as it happened, he’d pulled himself away, but not before his eyes lingered on her lips. The memory of their shared scene in the weave with his lips on hers played back in her head and she wanted nothing more than to kiss him in that moment. Until Astarion had approached with a mirthful grin, dangling an enchanted necklace to show off to her.

“Of course.” She responds after a moment, taking herself out of the loop of doubt wracking her system. “Lead the way.”

The night is dark as Gale leads her to an uninhabited clearing outside the inn. Cold air pricks her skin, sending a soft shiver throughout her body.

Darkness cloaked the land, usually - something Lilith was familiar with. The little memories she did have were of early childhood - and growing up in the underdark she found comfort in the way it draped over the land night and day.

Tonight, there is no cloaking darkness. Lilith’s eyes widen as she takes in the awe-inspiring sky before her. Colors swirled where the darkness should be. An aurora borealis.

“Wow,” she breathes out. She moves to seat herself on the cold ground but Gale reacts quickly, muttering a quick conjuration spell. A soft bedroll appears under her and she can’t fight the smile that plays on her lips. “Is this all your doing, Gale?”

The wizard seats himself next to her, his thigh brushing against hers lightly. “It is, indeed.” He answers her, his eyes set on the sky in front of him. He turns his gaze towards her, swallowing hard.

Lilith reaches out and brushes her hand against his. He responds by twining his fingers through hers. His thumb caresses her knuckles tenderly.

“Are you alright?” She asks him. Her heart races in her chest. She wonders for a moment if Gale is as nervous as she is. She wonders if she rests her hand over the orb in his chest if she would feel the wild thumping of his heart. Of course she would - a bittersweet reminder of how alive he is, so alive and so different from anyone her fractured brain can recall. All she remembers is death; by her hand, by others, it didn’t matter. Sickening images taunted her night and day with no repentance.

Well, almost no repentance. When she is with Gale…everything is different. She feels almost soft, almost pliant. She smiles. She can’t say the other companions bring that side out of her - most of them thought her ruthless and kept a careful distance. Not Gale, though. He was always quick to remind her that the urges were not her, that she was not a monster. He brought out her human side; the side of her she always thought was weak. Yes, she had all the makings of a drow; pale, moonlit skin, pointed ears, misty purple eyes. With human blood coursing through her veins. She was conditioned to believe humans were weak, fragile…but she’s come to find that Gale is none of those things. He is strong, intelligent and open minded; whilst also being tender, soft and sweet.

She recalls loving a human before losing her memories, in her own revolting way. She cannot recall his face, the visions of him merely shadows in her mutilated brain. She cannot recall anything about him. But being close to Gale often brought back snippets of memories - feelings, mostly. The soft brush of another’s hand, a lock of hair pushed behind her ear. The soft, caring touch of someone tending to her wounds.

Sometimes, when she lies awake at night, she wonders if she is truly capable of loving someone else. In her mind, there is no doubt she is undeserving of it - loving someone, and being loved - all together. To her, it is almost crueler that she feels so much. It would be easier to not feel at all than address the ache in her chest when he comes near.

“I love this time of night.” She finally hears Gale breathe out. His eyes are glassy as he continues caressing her knuckles with his thumb. His voice wavers, giving way to his nerves. “There’s almost a reverent silence that accompanies the peak of darkness, when you’d almost believe the dawn would never break…the cradle of eternity.”

Lilith’s mouth quirks in an attempted smile as she continues to listen to him. She is quite used to the endless words akin to poetry that seemed to be instinctual to the wizard, but something about his tone tonight is different.

“The timelessness of lovers…” he drolls out, turning his head to look upon Lilith. Her breath hitches as their eyes make contact. Gale expression is so vulnerable…so open. A hand presses against her cheek. The touch is brief, but the heat of him lingers. “The most beautiful of fantasies.”

Her face warms at his praise. It isn’t unlike him to flatter - but that remark feels different. He feels different. Lilith cant deny the effect his words have on her, but she knows that’s exactly what she is. A fantasy. A pretty face to look at, a warm body to indulge in. A tool to be used and thrown away. Nothing more.

She swallows, hard. “Why did you summon me here?”

Gale releases her hand now, leaving it cold at her side. “This may be my last night alive. I wanted it to be under a canopy of beauty, and wonder.” He tells her as he looks upon the stars. His gaze shifts to her again and she stiffens. “And with company to match.”

“I thought this place might bring me peace. I thought it might make the weight of what I must do feel a little lighter. But I am not so sure.” He finally confesses.

“Gale,” she starts, her eyebrows furrowing. “I refuse to believe this is the end. We will find another way, I promise.” She tries to hold back the rising panic in her voice, not wanting to divulge how much she feels she needs him.

The wizard’s smile is guarded. “Thank you. But even if we do find another way, perhaps this is the right way. The end fate wishes for me.”

“No. No.” Lilith breathes. “I cannot accept that. I cannot allow you to throw away your life for her-“

“It’s not for Mystra, Lilith! It’s the whole godsdamned world in the balance and I have a way to fix it-“

“I won’t let you. You can’t-“

“But why?” Gale asks. His usually warm brown eyes are wide, pleading.

Lilith’s gaze drops to the ground. A rising panic floods her body.

“Please, tell me.” He urges her, taking her cheek in his hand. His hand brushes her cheek and her eyes meet his. “You’re….crying.”

It’s an observation. One that shocks even her. She blinks, confused. Streams of hot, salty tears flood from her eyes. She can’t remember the last time she cried. Hells, she could barely remember anything, but she knew she didn’t cry. At least, she thought she didn’t.

Gale wipes her tears, and there is something so foreign, so cloying about his thumb brushing them away. Has she ever been touched so gently?

“I do not know who I am, not wholly,” she confesses. “But I know you. You’re good, you’re kind. You’re an incredible wizard and you have family and friends who love you, Gale.”

The wizard is silent, for once. She continues. “I wish I could take your place. I would take the orb from you in an instant, destroy the absolute and finally pay for everything I’ve done.”

Gale’s hand cups her jaw, willing her to look at him. “Lilith.”

“I’m not good, not like you. I have nothing, no one and it’s more than I deserve-“

“Lilith, look at me.”

It’s a command, and she follows it. She darts her eyes up at him, and gods his dark eyes are so soft as they look at her. The sincerity of it makes her feel naked. Powerless, even, as this human man cradles her heart in his hands and he doesn’t even know he has it.

“You must know you are very special to me.” Gale says, his voice merely a choked whisper. She trembles, and he covers her hands with his. “If things were different, if we were home…I’d have taken the time to do things properly. To say it all better. But time is short.”

Lilith knows what’s coming before it leaves his mouth. She’s pulling away, ready to retreat. “Gale-“

“I’m in love with you.”

She sits still, in shock after his confession before shaking her head. “I am undeserving of your love, I’m a murderer, Gale-“

“I’m in love with you, Lilith.” He repeats himself, sterner this time. “And I think you love me too.” He grips her hands like they are his life source, his eyes pleading with her and Lilith is tired. She’s tired of holding back. She’s tired of pretending she doesn’t love him. So, she takes his jaw in hand and slots her lips against his, and she’s finally kissing him. Hesitant and clumsy at first; her lips touch his, barely pressing. He reaches up to cup her cheek, groaning as he tastes her lips. She realizes very suddenly Gale isn’t shy with his mouth - his tongue slides against her lower lip, seeking entrance. Lilith lets out a choked little noise and parts her lips. He tastes like sweet red wine and magic as he lazes his tongue in her mouth. She could feel the weight of his body, incessant, pressing her against the bedroll.

They kiss for a long while. Long enough that Lilith forgets her earlier hesitations.

“I think I’m in love with you too.” She whispers against his chest when they finally part. “I don't - I don’t know what it’s supposed to feel like. But…I know I want to be with you.”

Gale smiles, he truly smiles for the first time since Mystra charged him with detonating the orb. “That’s a relief. It would be a shame to spend my final hours making an ass of myself.”

“Gale!” She swats at his shoulder playfully, sending him rolling on his back. He laughs, freely, a light sound. She rests her body on top of his, her thighs on either side of his. His thumping heart beats quickly against her breast. “I’ve made a mess of you.” She tells him with a sigh, thumbing away her signature raven black lipstick from his irritatingly kissable lips.

With a hushed command and small gesture of his fingers, the lipstick disappears. She feels a light tingling on her skin. Gale takes off the rest of her makeup too with another hushed prestidigitation cantrip and he looks at her. His big brown eyes are admiring her, full of adoration. “You are beautiful.”

It’s the first time he’s seen her without makeup. The face that’s usually so severe, setting fear in the hearts of so many looks so soft as she gazes down at Gale. Her skin pale like marble, her eyes a soft lavender. Her lips deliciously pink and kissable. The same could be said about her cheeks, all hot and flushed just for him. And on the plane of her nose and on her cheeks are a soft smattering of freckles. With a light touch, he traces the scar that starts at her forehead and runs diagonally through her full brows to end at her cheek. His eyes are questioning, but he doesn’t voice his curiosity.

“I think I was young,” she starts, letting her mind sift through her broken memories. “I don’t remember anything other than that.”

Gale hums for a moment, staring up at her with an almost tangible warmth. “I could pick up a pen write poetry about your beauty…alas, there are truly no words that compare to the vision in front of me.”

“Hmm. I admit, I’m not well versed in poetry. Though I do enjoy a good raunchy ballad.” Lilith teases him, sliding her hands along his plush velvet tunic.

He grins wickedly. “Ah! A splendid idea! It would be quite the story to hear in a tavern, wouldn’t it? Two unlikely companions becoming close through hardships and grave dangers, finding love with the prospect of death looming on the horizon…”

“If I’d known you felt this strongly about ballads I would have asked Alfira to write one about us instead of my ravishing body.” She accentuates this point by taking the wizards hands in hers, guiding them up her frame. She places them on her waist before letting go. Gale’s fingers dance along the fabric of her tunic before settling on the soft curve of her waist, squeezing gently. “Or perhaps an erotic novel featuring a noble wizard and his drow maiden would be more to your taste?”

Gale’s mouth parts in surprise for a moment as he gathers his thoughts. There was no denying the impact her words had on him. In fact, his growing excitement was evident between her legs now.

The wizard clears his throat, sliding his hands lower to claim her hips with his touch. “A novel written by you would be a dream come true, my darling. In fact, I could try my hand at it. It should be easy, given even a mere glance from you inspires me to no end. In more ways than just one.”

A hitch in Lilith’s breath emboldens him, evidence of her reaction to his words. His gaze trails from her face, flicking down to her chest lingering just long enough to be respectful, (he is a gentleman after all) eventually landing on her thighs spread on their side of his, then back up to her eyes. “Of course, I would very much enjoy writing of this ‘ravishing half-drow maiden’,” - he is quick to correct her and she rolls her eyes, muttering “semantics!” - “but I’m not quite sure any flowery words could accurately describe just how lovely she truly is.”

“Then you must recount just how ravishing I am. In extra detail.” Lilith demands, leaning in just enough their noses touch.

“Oh yes, my dearest Lilith,” Gale starts, his thumbs dipping just under her tunic. He traces shapes into her bare skin and Lilith has to remind herself to breathe. “I shall write of every little thing that makes you so. Starting with those spellbinding lavender eyes that give way to your every emotion. Your gorgeous lips, your delicate curves, your fascinating mind. I’ll write of your strength, too. The feeling of your skin under my hands, as well, though I may need to do more…research, so to speak, on that specific topic.”

“Are you saying you want to touch me, Gale?”

“If I could be so lucky - I want it more than anything.”

“Then why write when you could feel? Experience?” Lilith guides one of his hands to her chest, over her hammering heart. He feels it beat under his touch for only a moment until she slides the hand down, placing it on her breast. He takes it in hand, her plushness filling his palm. “I’m quite real, you know.”

“Oh, I know.” He smirks shamelessly, his hand kneading at her. “But consider this, love: in the future…when death welcomes me to her door, my words will remain. Our love immortalized on paper forevermore. I shall write of you until I can no longer hold a pen, when the ink runs dry and I fill the final page, until there are no more words to say.”

Even as he palms her breasts eagerly now, his voice stays perfectly even. Godsdamned wizards and their impeccable concentration! He speaks in a relaxed, even cadence saying the sweetest words and touching her - though now, Lilith could see his pulse jumping under his skin. Small victories.

“You are such a romantic.” She murmurs affectionately, pulling her lower lip in her mouth as his thumb brushes lightly against one of her nipples. “Tell me, Gale, how is it possible such a lovely man has no wife awaiting him at home in Waterdeep?”

“Perhaps it is the same reason why a beautiful unmarried maiden such as yourself is perched so prettily in my lap. Gods, I feel so privileged to touch you like this.” The wizard was losing it now, his thoughts spiraling all in the same direction. He needed her close, to worship her with his touch. He needed to show her just how special she is to him.

Lilith toys with the hem of her tunic, a bright flush decorating her pale gray skin. “You may touch me however you wish, Gale. I grant you that privilege.”

Gale swallows hard, understanding quickly dawning on him. He releases her breasts to drag her tunic up over her head. She raises her arms and the garment is quickly discarded. His breath hitches in his throat as he takes in the view of her; the tops of her breasts spilling through her bra. It digs into her skin uncomfortably and the wizard furrows his brows. “That looks painful. May I?” His fingers trail up her back to the clasp holding the constricting fabric together. She nods and he doesn’t hesitate; the bra falls to the ground a second later, discarded and forgotten.

Lilith sighs in relief as her chest is bared to the cool night air. She watches Gale’s expression turn as he observes her, his eyes dragging down her form appreciatively, memorizing every inch of her milky skin. She resists the urge to cover herself. A part of her feels shameful when he looks upon her. Of course she knows her body is littered in scars. Gale, however, didn’t know the extent of just how scarred she is. So many wounds, some healed and barely visible, some fresher and pink. And he has yet to say a word! Not knowing what he is thinking is akin to torture for her.

“You practically glow in the moonlight.

Goddess.” He finally says. His voice is finally shaky, breathy even, like he can scarcely keep himself together. “I often wondered what you would look like, bared for me. My imagination pales in comparison to this.”

Lilith is throbbing between her legs now as he touches her properly for the first time, lithe fingers dancing along her skin before circling her sensitive nipples. Her thighs clench, squeezing his hips. She bites back the meek moan threatening to leave her.

“You haven’t seen me bared yet.” she teases, rubbing the crux of her thighs along his length.

Gale practically groans as she rocks her hips on him, grabbing at hers to still her. “I haven’t, have I? Allow me to amend that.”

Lilith slides off his lap so his fingers can work at her laces. Warm, practiced hands slide the fabric down her legs before throwing it to the ground. Those same hands caress her hips and thighs in earnest now. Her eyes lift to meet Gale’s, only to discover how utterly enamored he is with her body. Gods, how intense those kind eyes could be. How much heat could lie inside them - lurking just beneath the surface. She presses her thighs together, her core barely concealed by a small pair of black panties.

“Ah, ah.” Gale tuts, prying her legs apart, first admiring the way the fabric sticks to her flesh. He dips his thumbs under the waistband of her underwear, stealing a breath from her. “Would you allow me the privilege…?”

She nods, maybe a bit too eagerly. “Please, Gale.”

With no hesitation, he slides them down her legs and bundles them up, placing them in the pocket of his trousers. “…for safekeeping.” He assured her with a wink.

A nervous laugh bubbles in Lilith’s chest as she rests back on her elbows. She anticipated he would jump on her at first opportunity; but he pulls back, choosing instead to admire her under the soft glow of the sky he conjured just for her. “Lost your nerve, wizard?” She asks him. Her legs drape open and she’s finally bare beneath him. His eyes lock on to the small thatch of silver hair between her thighs before they traveled lower, his tongue darting out to wet his lips.

“How inviting you are. Just beautiful.” He murmurs appreciatively and she has to fight the visceral reaction her body has to his words. She clenches around nothing and pulls her lip between her teeth, biting hard.

Gale’s steady hands cup her jaw, pulling her into him and kissing her fiercely. He pulls away - breathless, before asking: ”May I touch you?”

“Yes.”

“Are you sure-“

“Gods, please Gale!”

“Desperation is a good look on you, dearest.” he admits before kneeling in front of her and lowering himself until she could feel his breath on her. “Such a delicate flower.” He whispers, finally dragging a single finger down her folds. Dexterous fingers tease her flesh, circling once around her opening to gather her slick before pressing against her already swollen clit. His eyes lift briefly to admire her debauched expression as he slowly sinks one finger inside her, immediately followed by another. “Does that feel good?” He questions, but the knowing smirk on his lips tells her he already knows the answer.

Lilith pouts and sighs dramatically, causing him to stop the movement of his fingers inside her. He looks up, a furrow in his brow. “Is something wrong?”

“Yes, something is gravely wrong. You see, a certain talented wizard of great renown once told me he had a practiced tongue…” She smirks, scooting her hips closer to his face. He presses a soft kiss right under her navel, leaving her shuddering. “The problem is, I’ve scarcely been able to think of anything else but that beautiful man and his tongue-“

Gale swiftly cuts her off with a long drag of his tongue up the expanse of her. She whines as he reaches her clit and threads her fingers through his soft brown curls.

“Oh.” she breathes as he parts her folds and focuses on her tiny bundle of nerves. Gods, was this man eager to please. She bucks hard against his face and he presses a hand hard against her thigh, holding her leg up to rest on his shoulder. “I - I apologize,” She stammers out, her whole body quivering. “It’s been a while, can’t even remember the last time-“

The hot lave of his tongue between her legs abruptly stopped, replaced by Gale’s thumb, his other fingers still stroking inside her at a languid pace. “What exactly are you apologizing for, love?” He asks and his hot breath makes her squirm.

“Gonna come fast, Gale please-” she practically begs him now, her hand in his hair pushing down his head, desperate to have his mouth again.

Gale seals his lips around her clit and her whole body contracts, her legs only spreading wider for him. He greedily laps up her release as he pets at her inner walls, stroking deeper and deeper as they contract around his fingers.

“Gale…” she whines, practically tearing at his tunic to pull him closer. His fingers slip out of her as he falls into her embrace, their lips meeting desperately.

Lilith didn’t know she could feel this way. To feel more like a woman than a monster. But in this moment, pliant in Gale’s arms, she feels like a woman. Hells, she feels like a goddess after he worshipped her with his tongue.

The same tongue that was now sliding across her own. Her hands grab at the hem of his tunic, shoving it over his head. The wizard chuckles before assisting her, slipping it the rest of the way off. Her palms slide over his bare chest, finally feeling his skin under her hands. His trousers are next to go, haphazardly thrown to the side and when Lilith opens her eyes Gale is looming over her in only his underwear. Her hands find the waistband quickly with all intentions of dipping her fingers inside and taking him in hand, but she hesitates. Instead, she looks up at him, and finds him staring down at her. Their eyes meet - his, dark and stormy, full of lust and love. It steals the breath from her lungs and she kisses him them, pressing her forehead to his. “You’ll stay with me?” she asks him now, her voice softer than he’s ever heard before. Her teary lavender eyes are begging, pleading him. Please, she wants to say. She wants to have him, to keep him. She wants to be enough. Enough for him to stay.

”I’m here,” he tells her, his voice strangled. His own dark eyes are glassy. “I would never even dream of leaving you, Lilith. I love you.”

Their lips meet again and she takes him in her hand, earning a groan from her wizard. His skin is hot in her palm but she needs more. She pulls away from him, settling back on the bedroll and opening her legs. “Please.”

Gale exhales heavily at the sight of her, so open and ready for him. He crawls over to her, his body hovering over hers. ”Gods, you’re a vision - what do you need, my love?”

Lilith cannot help it; her eyes flit straight down his body to stare between his legs. He looks achingly hard; a bead of wetness at the head that she desperately wants to lap up. However, in this moment - her need for him to be inside her was far greater.

“I need your cock.” She finally tells him, pleading, her arms reaching out to pull him on top of her.

“Eloquently put, dearest.” Gale murmurs teasingly before holding her close, kissing her slowly, languidly. His hardness presses against her stomach and she reaches down, angling him against her center. A whine escapes her as the tip of him brushes her still-sensitive clit. She is so wet, her slick so abundant he slides right down through her folds and enters her with no resistance. He groans as he does - his control waning for every torturous second he lets her walls adjust around his girth.

Lilith gasps as he thrusts inside her for the first time, her hands flying up around his neck. “Gale,” she moans, placing a wet kiss over his pulse point. “You make me forget this god-forsaken world, you elate me, excite me, intoxicate me - fuck!”

A brutal thrust causes her to lose her train of thought. She moans with reckless abandon, clenching around his length that’s buried so deep inside her. “By the gods, I feel the same way, Lilith.” Gale manages to say, his breath hot against her neck.

”You know me like no other,” she proclaims, winding her legs around his waist. She digs her heels into his backside, a desperate moan spilling from her lips as the angle forces him even deeper. “Gale, I - I love you. Come inside me, please, make me yours. I want to be yours.”

Gale wastes no time in dipping his head down and licking into her mouth, her jaw cradled in his hand. His cock throbs against her fluttering walls as he fucks her at a maddening pace and she knows he is close. Still, his hand slides between their bodies, his fingers gathering her slick and circling her clit. She whines in his mouth and clenches around him, so close to the edge already.

“I feel it,” he practically growls against her lips. “The way you tighten around me - gods, come for me again my love.”

She does - she comes around him like a storm, mewling into his mouth, squeezing his cock with reckless abandon. It sends Gale to the edge; his hips stutter against hers and he spills inside her.

The moment feels precious. Cathartic. His lips slide against hers and for once she is grateful to not be able to remember anything before the tadpole. For this; being in his arms - is perfect. He is what she wants to remember. No one else.

“Will you?” She asks him. “Stay with me?”

Gale presses a sweet kiss to her head. “Of course I will, my darling.”

And for now whilst Lilith is nestled safely in his embrace, she stares up at the sky. Her lips curl in a smile as the colors of the Aurora Borealis comes into view. She marvels at how incredible the stars could look. An almost indescribable feeling rushes over her sweat slick skin, a sense of security she’s never experienced before. Her eyes move to Gale, who’s eyes are closed, his breaths coming even and deep. She waits for the urge to call on her, tainting the moment. But it’s quiet, seemingly dormant.

For now, everything is perfect.

[beepersteeper]

I Will Always Find You -- Astarion x Tav-- Meeting a Friend | Part 10

Astarion and F!Tav live happily together for the remaining years she has, she refuses to be turned into a vampire because her faith says that her soul isn’t finished with its work yet. Tav dies of old age and leaves Astarion to put together the pieces of his broken heart. AN: Lord of Light lore taken and changed to fit the story's means. Not canonically accurate. TLDR story line stuff. This is an AU where Astarion ascends but isn't a power hungry bastard and Tav is able to help him continue healing. Wyll is immortal and the Duke. Karlach in my mind, if given a new engine would be able to live a lot longer than the usual tiefling. Another AN: idk if anyone wants tagged in this WIP but let me know. 

“FANGS!” Karlach shouts and wraps Astarion in a tight hug, lifting him off the ground “Look at me! Out of the hells and not the least bit on fire!” Giving him one more squeeze and letting his feet steady on the floor. "And this must be Vira? I'm Karlach." She reaches for Vira's hand to shake. Vira's eyes glass over only for a second before she smiles and shakes the tiefling’s hand. “Are you lot ready? This is my first night back on Baldurian soil in years that I don't have to fight for my keep or anything! Can we go have fun!?” she pleads “Pleeeese."

Astarion shakes Eyman’s hand and Vira kisses his cheek before Wyll and Karlach shake his hand before they all leave and make the short walk to the Counting House. Astarion and Wyll discuss the political impact of having the ceremony in the Counting House. Neither is pleased with the change of venue. 

“It was supposed to be at Wyrm's Crossing.” Wyll shrugs “but they say they were booked for something else. But it's funny, the party booked there tonight was scheduled a month after the Fist graduation was reserved.”

"Come off it Wyll, you and I both know that the master of the Counting House is just trying to prove that the Fist is in their pocket. It's much more profitable when everyone is arrested over utter rubbish.”

"But my lord." Wyll jokes slipping into his courtly voice "The master of the counting-house is just being a most gracious host for the newest rank of the Flaming Fist. But if I'm not mistaken, don't you make large and regular donations to the Fist’s education?”

"Sir, I do think you're right, I however haven't been the most involved with the bookkeeping of the Ancunín Estate as of late. That question would fall on the desk of Duke Ravengard.” Astarion responds in kind. Pretending to flip through a log book. 

The two continue this charade to complain about the location and the Fist, still clearly annoyed by their treatment many years ago while Karlach and Vira walk between them.

“I hope they weren't this pompous when you traveled with them." Vira quips to Karlach.

“Oh, they had their moments." Karlach groans while readjusting her hair “Now they just have the titles to back it up. But the years in public service have humbled them if you'd believe that." She laughs, getting dirty looks from both men.

“I do." Vira responds with a laugh and squeezes Astarions hand 3 times. “They only get like this when they're forced into their court clothes." She says before whispering to Karlach but loud enough to be heard by all “They both act like they don't like getting dressed up though."

She and Karlach share a laugh while both men groan and roll their eyes. The couples walk through the doors and are greeted and ushered to their seats. Four high back chairs at a large ornate table along the side of the room. “For our esteemed guests." The concierge says with a flourish gesture “You all will find your seats at the front end of the table saer." The man bows deeply to Astarion and Wyll. “The graduates will be entering soon."

They find their seats and Astarion pulls Vira's chair out for her. Karlach looks at Astarion with a big grin.

"Don't, Karlach.” Astarion playfully warns. 

“What?" She defends putting her hands up and holding back a laugh, poorly. A boisterous giggle escaped. “I was just going to say that it does this metal heart good to see you happy.”

Astarion smiles and whispers quickly "Well I’m sorry if I expected some sort of snarky comment. Thank you Karlach.” he sets himself between Vira and Wyll noticing that Vira seems to be deep in thought. He squeezes her knee to get her attention and speaks low enough to just speak to her “Is everything okay my love?" 

She nods curtly, focusing her eyes. "Just taking the night in.” Her mouth smiles, but he notices it doesn't meet her eyes. "Something about tonight just feels… familiar." She shrugs and lets her smile become genuine “I like her." She whispers and points her eyes to Karlach.

Astarion smiles and nods, keeping his red eyes fixed on her face, making sure she's okay. A well-dressed man breaks his concentration on Vira when he approaches and starts speaking while in a deep bow.

“My lord.” he starts “I would like to extend gratitude to you on behalf of this year's graduates. They have worked very hard to meet your and Duke Ravenguard's standards. They feel like they are more prepared to serve the community of Balder’s Gate than any classes before them.”

Astarion nods and shakes the man's hand “I am eager to see the newest rank put their education into action. Thank you.” when the man disappears into the crowd Astarion returns his attention to Vira who is concealing a giggle. “What?” he sarcastically rolls his eyes.

“Nothing at all My Lord, just simply observing you in your element.” she chided.

“No.” he groans and leans in to whisper to her squeezing her hand “You're watching a sham.” he is interrupted by another person approaching and bowing.

“Greetings My lord. I would be remiss if I didn't properly thank you for your help in proving my husband's innocence. And even further for letting us see what your plan for the Fist is in the future.” tears start to fall down the person's face “Thank you for saving my family.” their voice wavers.

“It was my greatest pleasure, Fawn. Enjoy your evening” he says before he starts to whisper, handing her the napkin at his place setting “Wipe your face dear, they don't deserve to see any of your tears ever again. Take everything they offer you tonight, you deserve all of it and more. Give Ben and the kids my best.” he reached his hand out and squeezed the visitor's hand.

They smile and dab tears away, bow their head with a smile, and walk away meeting with their family and taking their seats.

“Now that is my element darling.” he nods toward the family. Vira laughs knowing that he is right.

The gentle music that fills the air is stopped by a loud man who starts to speak. Vira watches Astarion roll his eyes before fixing his face to the one that the community expects to see, clearly not pleased with the gentleman speaking. She laced her fingers with his stealing a glance at him sitting straighter and his face in a way she can only describe as stern. Putting on an air that he is the most important man in the room. He just might be she thinks to herself.

“Esteemed guests, family and friends. It is my pleasure to introduce to you the latest graduating class. The fine individuals I will soon welcome into the great hall have decided to dedicate their lives to protecting our great city. So I ask that you stand and congratulate them before they are given their official Fist pins that they will wear proudly as they do their duty." The room is filled with the sound of scooting chairs and applause. Vira shifts to stand and feels a pressure on her knee. She looks to her side to see Astarion shake his head slightly and mouthing “not us." At this, she notices that nobody at the long table stands, instead they all clap, and most smile. She follows suit and claps quietly- aware of how different the culture at this table is from her normal.

The new cadets stand proud as their loved ones pin their lapels and share hugs or kisses. After the ceremony ends the graduates walk down the table shaking the hands of people like Astarion and Wyll. Noble. Important. Influential. Their little band enjoys small talk through dinner, only interrupted by passersby stopping to talk to Wyll and Astarion. After the tables are cleared more people are milling about and start to dance to the band playing music.

Astarion stands and offers his hand to Vira “May I have this dance?” His face moved from the sneer it'd been stuck in all evening to a genuine smile as he bowed at the waist, his eyes rounded and soft.

"How could I say no.” She smiles back and places her hand into his. He kisses her knuckles and leads them both to the far side of the dance floor, actively trying to not be the center of attention. 

“Are you enjoying yourself, darling?” Astarion asks as he spins her in time to the song. 

“I certainly am now~" she giggles as her dress twirls around her legs when she returns to her partner. “Is this what all your fancy dinner parties are like?"

He hums before responding “Mmm, More or less. I've come to prefer them with less politics. Maybe Wyll and I will host our own ball sometime. To show you how fun these suares can actually be.”

“You think you can throw a better party than the master of the Counting House?” she jokes, goating his ego.

“There's no question about it darling.” his eyes find hers, filled with heat, knowing that she is toying with him. “Unlike Glitterbeard, I allow myself to have fun from time to time.” 

They both giggle and dance through several songs. Before Wyll walks up to them holding Karlach’s hand on one of his and puts his other hand on Astarion’s shoulder and asks to cut in with a smile on his face “Karlach wants to dance with you, my friend but I would hate for Vira to miss out on all the fun the night has to offer.” Astarion chuckles and bows to Vira and gives her hand to Wyll. He and Vira dance into the crowd to the now more upbeat music. Astarion and Karlach dance together and still on the outside of the crowd to be able to talk without interruption, and further away from the band.

They talk about Karlach’s recent upgrade, and life over the last years, and Astarion recounts some of his adventures before returning to Balder’s Gate. The conversation, unsurprisingly, turns to Vira. “She seems sweet, Fangs.” Karlach smiles “How'd you meet?”

“Wyll didn't tell you?” he responds honestly, surprised.

She shakes her head moving away from him as part of the dance before returning “No, all he said is that you met someone and were happy.”

“Well, that's true.” he chuckles and lets his gaze linger on Vira as she disappears further into the crowd. He explains the odd circumstance of how they met “and I don't spend a day away from her if I can help it.” He finishes his story as a song ends and another starts. “Did Tav ever talk to you about the Lord of Light after she remembered?” he asks with little time for transition.

“Of course.” Karlach’s eyes widen and she chuckles “That was something that she talked about a lot.” she raises an eyebrow “You know that?”

“Do you think that she came back again? Like she said she would.” he asks unintentionally letting his eyes drift to find Vira and Wyll dancing enthusiastically.

She groans “I don't know Fangs.” She takes a breath before she continues  “Sure it seems unlikely, but we both know that unlikely somehow always seemed to be possible with Tav.” she smiles and shrugs “Do you think..?” Karlach doesn't finish the sentence, knowing he will be able to fill in the blanks.

He groans “How should I know?” he spins her to the beat “There's a lot that is just uncanny. Like, she has dreams that are eerily familiar to her but even more similar to things I’ve witnessed, that we’ve witnessed... She has talked about a ‘warm friend who was laughing hysterically at a giant forge that killed a titan and made a sword at the same time’. I'm sure you remember something like that.”

“Woah,” she says, missing a step in the dance. “That is weird. Have you told her?”

“No.” he huffs, leading them back into the right steps. “I don't think I'm supposed to? I don't want to rush her…” he pauses his thoughts “process? I don't know, Tav didn't tell me what to do with this, it has been nearly 90 years since I've had to think about this.” he shakes his head “not to mention Tav pretty much did it on her own, though she never came to the point of being able to name any of her pasts. I just need to research it more.”

“Well isn't it lucky you’ve been practically living in a religious text house.” she booms a laugh “and you've got that audacious library of your own. Why don't we all put our heads together, and figure this out? We’ve already done much harder things than a book club.”

“You'd give up your time topside to help me do that?” he asks before he realizes that of course, she would. 

“First, I think I'm staying, as long as this new hunk of junk doesn't start burning hotter, so I hope there's still an open room in that big ol’ palace of yours.” She laughs again as the music slows and stops. “And second, you're not the only one who wants Tav back, Fangs. Let's get this figured out.” she winks “Vira and Wyll are coming back, is this shindig over yet?”

“Gods I hope so.” he sighs loudly letting go of Karlach’s hand and wrapping that arm around Vira’s waist “How was your dance darling?” 

“Wyll is a very impressive dancer. I had a lot of fun, even if I stepped on his toes more times than I can count.” she blushes and covers her face with her sleeved hand.

“Oh stop.” Wyll coos, “You were a wonderful partner, and my toes are still in perfect condition. You are too hard on yourself.”

“I think it's time we take our leave.” Astarion nods toward the door “We’ve done our part. Let the graduates enjoy their celebration, they've got a big day tomorrow.” he laughs and begins walking alongside the crowd, leading his friends into the cool night air. 

“Where to now!?” Karlach asks, still giddy to be back home after all this time. “I am not ready to turn in for the night yet." 

“I should probably head home, at least check in on Daddy. But if we weren’t so overdressed I’d say we could go to the tavern and actually unwind.”

“We could always just meet there after we get changed.” Wyll shrugs.

The group decides to go their separate ways to meet up back at the Elf Song Tavern. Vira and Astarion enter the bookstore and are greeted by a surprised Eyman “I thought for certain you would be staying at Little Star’s again tonight.”

“I didn't know that was an option.” she retorts with a laugh. Astarion stands behind her. “We are going to the tavern though." 

“You aren't just my little girl anymore Vira, I know that you are safe out there with him. Go back out there and enjoy time with your friends.” he waves his hand and smiles.

She smiles and kisses him on the cheek. “I’ll be back tomorrow for supper Daddy.” as she bounds up the stairs to pack a bag of clothes and grab their clothes from this afternoon. Eyeman’s gaze follows her up the stairs until Vira is out of sight. 

“I’ve been overprotective of my little girl her whole life, Astarion.” Eyman starts without hesitation. “But seeing you two together, I know I'm not the only one that cares about her. You have my blessing to stay here whenever you like, or at your house likewise. Just make sure she comes to visit me once in a while.” he chuckles.

“Eyman, that means the world to me. But why- what happened?” Astarion asks, a growing concern in his voice.

“Just been observing.” he shrugs. “I don't want to be the thing that limits her happiness. She is happiest when she's with you. You're far beyond just courting her, the two of you have a bond that goes beyond that which I can understand” he smiles as Vira comes back down the stairs with one bag on her shoulder and another in her hand.

“I'm almost ready Star, I'll be just another minute. “ She chimes as she ducks into the curtained room to grab her journal. 

“Are you moving out already, Daughter? Just like that?” Eyman heartily laughs.

Astarion excuses himself to change into more casual clothes.

“Very funny Daddy." She sighs “I told you I'll be back tomorrow." She smiles “What changed?" she crosses her arms, concerned. 

“Nothing changed my littlest love." Eyman grins and pushes her braid behind her shoulder “and that's what matters.  Little Star is a good man. It's like you two were predestined to find each other.”

She giggles a little, unsure what to say  "What's that mean?”

"I'm just saying there might be more to your Lord of Light studies than I had previously thought.” He looks up the steps as Astarion is coming down carrying his formal clothes under his arm “But that's enough of that for the night daughter. Go enjoy yourself."

Her father bid them a goodnight and the couple left to make their way to the palace before the bar to drop off the bags. They walked in a comfortable quiet with Vira clearly lost in thought.

“Deja vu again?" Astarion asks to check in with her.

“I… don't think so. No,” she laughs weakly, "Daddy said something weird before we left.”

“Oh?" He asks, turning his head to face her.

“He said that he thinks there's more to my faith than he originally thought. That he thinks that you and I are…” she pauses to ruminate on the word her father said, “predestined to be together." A smile creeps across her face. Astarion hums a response waiting for her to continue speaking. “It's like he knows something I don't. Maybe I knew you in a past life or something.” She laughs “That would explain the intense deja vu and the connection we had almost immediately." She shrugs again and leans her head on his shoulder.

“I'd be lying if I said I didn't hope that was true." He laughs, pulling her closer to him.

She shakes her head as if ridding herself of a thought she doesn't want bouncing around her head.

Tell her that her feelings are valid.  Tav's voice whispered in his mind. He blinks away the thought drawing closer to the bar. “Whatever you're thinking, darling, you can talk to me about it."

“I know." She smiles and waves her hand through the air “There'll be time for that later. They're waiting for us. Thanks, Star.” She squeezes his hand 3 times as they continue their walk into the bar.

As they turn the corner someone quietly puts a hand over Viras mouth and pulls hard to pull her off balance to pull her into the alley. Astarion holds tight to her wrist and feels her struggle against his hold.

Muffled growls come from Vira as she rips her dominant hand away from Astarion and lands a solid punch on her aggressor's nose. As the person reels back Vira reaches to her back to grab a sword that isn't there, left in a moment of shock when it isn't in her hand. 

@silverfangmarks @zoeloveslotr @prudent-nerd

[bladesmitten]

oh god i want All of them so bad ... umm. sorry women ? and/or. defender's heart

WIP folder game

i'll do sorry women! this is basically uhhhh the whole buildup to ajax killing alfira despite his best efforts to stave off the urge. also it's women plural because. well. karlach dies, and later that night alfira also dies. sorry women. (not the actual title, though)

here's a snippet (violence and gore warning, general dark urge stuff):

Her face changes with each thrust of his blade. Stab. A man with unkempt hair, his easy smile stretching until it rips his face in half. Stab. The scowl of an old man, his skin drying until he is merely a husk. Stab. Empty white eyes stare back at him, the blue of her pale skin swirling round and round. Stab. Her face doesn’t change. Stab. A derisive laugh echoes, first soft, then louder and louder as he brings down the blade again and again and again.

With a final thrust, he brings their brows together, twisting the blade with satisfaction. When he pulls away, it’s Wyll who stares back, his beautiful face still drawn in that same pathetic concern. The sight of him, on the verge of death, shoots a thrill right up his spine. As Wyll takes his last breath, Ajax leans in and inhales the oxygen from his lungs, slotting his lips over his, making sure not a single molecule escapes their mouths as he breathes in the remaining air out of him.

Ajax gasps awake, his hands covered with entrails, elbow-deep in gore. No, gods, did he…? The bloody sight jolts him, and his first instinct is to identify the body. Leathery blue skin, vibrant bardic garments, silky purple tresses, horns jutting out of her skull, her face twisted into a perpetual expression of terror. The tiefling’s name eludes him, so he decides on another: Not-Wyll. Uncanny relief engulfs him. With mechanical motions, he picks up Not-Wyll’s body, seeking to dispose of it as quickly as he can. Already, the first rays of the sun peek through the horizon.

As Ajax carries the body, careful not to spill her guts on the soil and make even more of a mess, he recalls what he can. He remembers her voice, in sickeningly sweet singsong: “Perhaps I could catch a rabbit in a snare for breakfast!” Then, the shrill scream—oh, he can hear it so vividly—then, the ecstasy washing over him as he brought down the dagger repeatedly, blood gushing from the wounds, splattering all over his face. The way the knife smoothly carved into her stomach, the intestines peeking through: a most delicious sight. He shudders, laying down Not-Wyll onto the sandy beach. He hates it—every moment he remembers of it; he wants to purge all the thoughts and desires from his brain as much as he wants this wretched tadpole out of his head. Yet, he feels at peace having sated the urge. The horrible headache had dissipated, leaving his mind clearer than it has ever been since waking up in the Nautiloid. Still the loss of memory, but no longer consumed by his thoughts. What utterly terrible bliss!

All he needed is to spill blood. Not the wild slaughter in battle, but deliberate, beautiful murder.

The River Chionthar stretches before him, rushing into the open sea. He poises, leaning back to toss Not-Wyll into the river, when—

“Is that who I think it is?”

He whips around to see the vampire leaning on a tree.

[rinwellisathing]

Get to know my OCs: alignments:

Sentry Ojeda: neutral evil/chaotic neutral

A point I often make and one of my favorite musical theatre lines is "Nice is different than good". Sentry is charming, friendly, personable, laughs easily, is creative and forms connections with people, but he is ultimately not a good person per se. Yes, he genuinely cares for the fate of the tiefling refugees, yes he frees the deep gnomes from the Duergar, but that's his mercurial nature. If Rolan's life wouldn't have been in danger along with the tiefling children, Sentry would not have thought twice about killing Isobel. Yes he adores Aylin as a big sister type, but he didn't know her at the time so Isobel was just a random person. Yes he cares about finding the killer in the city, but only because Father Lorgan and Ffionn died. He's very complicated and ultimately his world always comes back to his love for Gortash and needing him in his life.

Jaina Thalassia: Chaotic Good

Jaina can be snarky and bitter sometimes, but she genuinely cares deeply for the people around her and wants to do what's right even at the cost of her own comfort and happiness. Much like Wyll, she aims to be a defender of the downtrodden and those who can't defend themselves and she has a strong sense of justice, especially when that justice doesn't exactly align with the law. Laws are made by the ruling class and the ruling class is so often self serving, after all. Above anything, Jaina values her family and her friends and would do anything for them.

Jackal Silk: chaotic evil

Jackal is a truly selfish, hedonistic person for whom only his own power, pleasure, and goals matter. He may serve a more powerful evil being every now and again, but it always comes back to getting what he wants in the end. No evil is off limits to him, even the most heinous of acts.

Kroger of Creche K'liir: Lawful Good/ Neutral Good

Growing up in a Creche made it so easy for Kroger to simply follow rules and behave, do his job as Ghustil in training, heal others, treat them fairly and ensure their health and safety, it was almost an easy life. However when he found himself out in the world with his sisters, things weren't always so cut and dry and when it came down to it, his oath as a Ghustil was more important than his oath to Vlaakith. People are and have always been Kroger's primary concern and that will never change.

Octavia of Creche K'liir: Chaotic Neutral

Remember nice is different than good? The sweetest, kindest, and most friendly character in my repertoire, however for Octavia research and the pursuit of knowledge matter above everything else. It's not that she would enjoy seeing someone suffer or leaving someone to die, moreso that something could easily distract her or if there was a split second in which she could save a life or discover something no one else ever had, she would choose the discovery without regret 100% of the time.

[munmomuu]

I am full on copium on believing that BG3 should/would have a DLC based on a follow up for the Crown of Karsus. Full game and epilogue spoilers ahead.

First as a disclaimer - I'm fully aware this is at best, wishful thinking and isn't based on anything else than what we have in the game already and has a lot of problems due how large the game is. But I'm hopeful!

As anyone could probably tell, marketing standpoint, it would be really profitable for Larian to make story DLC's in the game. The game has sold a lot, has got expectionally great reviews, people crave more, yada yada. No surprises there.

Bah - why are you assuming there's a DLC coming?

In the epilogues, Withers does hint a lot on possible future DLC's. The first one is from the final toast you get after you advance the party by talking to Withers, and the second one is when your character dies during the last cutscene in the docks. The dev notes only describe the cinematics for the toast, so there's no additional notes on if it's foreshadowing or not.

Also, of course we can't ignore Raphael's oh-so-subtle hints. Screenshots are taken from video by Rhikitty

Obviously, it could be just Larian teasing us, it could be that they have plans now, but they sour later on. We can't really tell at this point. But, enough on that, I wanted to make this more on what it could be about - the Crown of Karsus.

Why the Crown?

The game has quite the emphasis on the Crown in Act 3 - the Netherstones control the crown and this way also the Elder Brain (which becomes the Netherbrain). In the end, the Crown drops in the Chionthar, where there's several options what will happen to it:

The Crown ends up to Gale - he will use it to claim godhood

Mystra gets hold of the Crown - Gale will return the Crown to her

Raphael will have the Crown - either the player surrenders the Crown to him, or (I'm not sure about this) he retrieves it himself from Chionthar

As far as I know and correct me if I'm wrong - someone will always have the Crown in the end. This already is a really good base for a story - Raphael is seeking out world domination himself after he has conquered Avernus, so we would have to stop him to get the hold of the Crown. It is pretty clear he hasn't given up on the crown.

Mystra's and Gale's motivations are still unknown what will they do with it. Raphael does allude that they would be corrupted as well and use it for their own selfish reasons, but at this point, could we really trust Raphael as the source on this?

Who would be the villain?

If we assume what Raphael says is true - this could also mean we would need to be against Mystra or Gale. Or, if the player ascends with Gale, maybe be against our old friends and companions, defending the crown and preventing them shattering their godhood. There's also the possibility that origin Gale would become Mystra's Chosen again, so origin Gale would have to fight beside her.

Personally, thinking about these options, I would wager the main antagonist would be Raphael, and Gale and Mystra would be your allies at the start of the DLC, with the eventual option to betray them in the end. Raphael is a very compelling antagonist, with amazing performance and brilliant writing, which would be very fascinating to see more of. Not to mention, it would bring opportunities to show off Mephistopheles, and also possible stir things with Zariel, Karlach, Wyll and Mizora.

There's also Shar and Vlaakith who showed interested in the artefact. I have to admit, I kind of missed the point why Shar would have been interested in the artefact. I know Vlaakith's main concern was to secure her place in godhood and avoid Orpheus getting free. So while they showed more interest in the artefact rather than Crown, it could be possible they would show more interest in it too.

Back to reality....

It could certainly be possible that this could happen, I'm bit of sceptical for getting any DLC that would set after the game events. While Larian's writing for very diverse, branching narrative is really cool, it requires a lot of mental work from the writers to keep the characters consistent for the player's actions and consider all the outcomes with companions and origin characters, not to speak actually making them in the game with full acting, getting approval from licensing standpoint, etc. It's not impossible, given how well the game has done and everyone working on the game are more experienced with it.

But this is just me theorycrafting and just getting some of the brainrot out of my system.

[leftoverdinosaurbones]

In Pursuit of Power

Series: F!Reader (Dark Urge), Astarion NSFW (minors DNI)

[Act 1 & 2 Spoilers. Set in-game]

***

This is a new fic I'm working on, based on an evil* durge run. It's a slow-burn (sorry) but hopefully worth the wait. I will update warnings as needed! *As evil as I could personally handle (I'm a baby)

You can read it here or on Ao3 - whichever you prefer!

Content Warning: Mentions minor character death.

Summary: From the moment you fell out of the pod on the nautiloid, you were aware of three things:

1. Your name 2. Your frequent headaches 3. Your thirst for blood

These three things were your constants. But where did these come from? You feel a deep urge to find something beyond what you’ve experienced so far. For power beyond measure. You just need to figure out how to grasp it.

Series Inspiration: for the ~vibes~

Chapter 1: A Tempting Proposition

From the moment you fell out of the pod on the nautiloid, you were aware of three things:

Your name

Your frequent headaches

Your thirst for blood

These three things were your constants. But where did these come from?

Who named you? This, you weren’t sure. You had no recollection of your parents or who raised you. Perhaps your devoted little butler would have some answers? You made a mental note to ask him about this the next time you saw him.

What caused these headaches? Of course, there’s the tadpole in your head. But your companions don’t seem to be plagued by the same bouts of pain. This pain that bores behind your eyes and gnaws at you, and sometimes even knocks you out cold.

What drove your thirst? At times, your bloodlust could be insatiable. But what drove it forward? Was it vengeance? Power? Compulsion?

You couldn’t deny the absolute and immeasurable joy you felt when you woke out of your stupor, hands covered in the blood of that poor bard girl. But you didn’t know why you killed her. Hells, you didn’t even remember doing it. It all just seemed so… simple. So crass. What was the point if you couldn’t even remember doing it? If you couldn’t decide who lives and dies by your hand?

You feel a deep urge to find something beyond what you’ve experienced so far. For power beyond measure. You just need to figure out how to grasp it.

For now, you’ve started to cultivate an…eclectic group of followers. Some of them even show signs of promise. Despite your gruesome, aggressive, and largely cold-blooded ways, you’ve managed to worm your way into their hearts and minds. Even your more kind-natured companions find ways to excuse their newfound tendencies toward violence. We couldn’t just kill the leaders of the Goblin camp - the rest would surely still take out the grove on their own! The memories brought a smile to your lips. How easy it has been to satisfy both your bloodlust and build loyal followers.

If your followers get too worked up over a decision you’ve made, you only need to talk them down with just a few gentle words.

Karlach, you’re looking like you’re running a bit too hot today. Mind staying back at the camp for today? Maybe I can try to cool you off later.

Wyll, sometimes we make terrible decisions for the greater good, right?

Gods, it’s just too easy.

But your personal favorites are the ones that lust after power just as much as you. How you can almost smell it on them - the desperation, the carnal need for it. They will simply do anything for you, because you’ve made them believe that you are critical to their success.

Even now, as you rest at the Last Light, your head is cradled in Karlach’s lap while she massages away one of your tension headaches. After her upgrade from Dammon this evening, she is thrilled to be touching you so easily. She doesn’t know that just earlier today, you demanded a goblin run into the shadows to fetch a bone he threw for a hyena - though in all honesty, you would defend that as an act of justice. You relax further into her eager touch.

Out of the corner of your eye, you can see Astarion with a deep scowl on his face. He is flipping through the pages of his book in a disgruntled huff, barely absorbing the words on the page before moving on to the next. Every now and then, he steals furtive glances your way before casting his eyes back towards his book.

You close your eyes and suppress a laugh. You’ve noticed how Astarion stares after you as you make your rounds to speak to each of your followers at camp. Sometimes, you wait to speak with him last solely because you know how much it bothers him. He whispers sweet nothings at you if you pass by too close. He flirts with you, outrageously, in front of the rest of the group. He will even invite himself into your conversation if you linger too long with Gale, Wyll, or Shadowheart.

From one manipulator to another - you assume that he is trying to get close to you for his own purposes, not because of any genuine feelings of his own. And so far, you’ve let him establish that relationship. He’s one of the most powerful followers you have, with the tadpole only magnifying his strengths. There’s also a part of you - a small part - that does find him particularly attractive. What could be the harm of a little self-indulgence?

“Thank you so much, Karlach, that was divine.” You sit up from Karlach’s lap with a grateful stretch. Karlach lets out a soft sigh, already mourning the loss of contact. You press a quick kiss to the crown of her forehead before smoothing down your ruffled hair.

“You’re welcome!” Karlach smiles, hands clapped together. “Time for me to go chat with Withers about his old eye…” She pushed herself onto her feet and bounded away towards the skeleton.

After adjusting your clothes, you turned to make your way towards Astarion, the corner of your lips turned up into a half-smirk.

“Oh, hello there." He pretends to be startled by your approach. “To what do I owe the pleasure of our great leader blessing me with the gift of her presence?” He rolled his eyes and looked back at his book.

You crossed your arms, leaning against the door frame of his room at the Inn. “Oh, come off it. She wanted to help with my terrible headache And it’s not like anyone else offered to help.” You raised an eyebrow in his direction, looking for his reaction.

Nothing.

“Plus, you know Karlach is long overdue for some skin-to-skin touch. If you wanted, I’m sure she would help you out with any of your needs, too.”

“Why do I get the feeling that Karlach would rather use her hands to break me in half? No thanks,” Astarion scoffed, snapping his book shut. “Anyway, since you’re here now, there is something I wanted to talk to you about.” Astarion set the book down and brought one of his hands to his face, index finger resting thoughtfully on his chin.

“I feel a connection between us. Like we are two souls walking the same path.”

Your eyebrows stitch together and you hold your breath - where is this going?

“Every step we walk trails blood. Killing is an instinct for us. I respect you for that. I would keep the murders in our own camp to a minimum, but otherwise we are very much on the same page.”

You release your breath. Of course this is what he means. What were you thinking??

“Why, thank you,” you respond in kind, hoping that you were able to successfully cover up the fleeting emotion on your face.

“I just worry that we’re not considering all our options when it comes to our uninvited guests. How many people are infested with them? Hundreds? Thousands?” Unaware, Astarion plowed forward with his monologue.

“And they are not all just goblin trash. There are powerful people in the worms’ thrall. Whoever’s waiting for us at Moonrise Towers controls it all. But if we can take that control from them, imagine the power we’d wield.”

Hmm. You hadn’t considered this yet. You’d been so consumed with the idea of what comes after getting rid of the tadpoles that you never thought of what could happen if you accept them instead, and use them for your own advantage. An interesting idea, indeed. Of course, you can see the greater advantage for Astarion - he can keep his ability to walk in the sun, cross rivers, walk into any home he’d like. But this plan isn’t without benefits for you, too.

“This is a tempting idea,” you conceded, uncrossing your arms to run your fingers idly through the ends of your hair.

Astarion brought his hands together, hints of excitement glittering in his eyes as you welcomed his idea.

“Isn’t it just? Imagine, the entire cult under our thumb. I’m just saying that there’s an opportunity before us. If we can control the tadpoles, we can keep ourselves safe and enjoy a little world domination on the side. Doesn’t that sound fun?” His mind had begun to run away with possibilities.

“It does sound fun…any ideas on how we could accomplish such a task?”

Astarion scrunched up his nose, brows furrowed in thought. “Well, I…hmm. I mean, I’m really more of a big-picture person myself. I haven’t thought of the details yet. I figured you would be able to get to all of that,” he waves your question off with an impatient hand.

“Anyway, I knew I was right about you. It’s so good to find a kindred spirit amongst this rabble.” He ran his hand gently down your arm, fingers dancing along your skin.

“Well, I must be off to bed. A long day tomorrow.” You cut the conversation off, turning on your heel. You notice the faintest, quietest of disappointed sighs from behind you. With a smile, you look back over your shoulder.

“Oh, you’re welcome to feed on me tonight, if you’d like.”

Astarion struggles to hold back a beaming smile.

“Then I will see your delicious self tonight.”

Chapter 2 here

[nostalgiachan]

A Terrible Lie

Fifteenth Prompt: Vier has been betrayed. What happened?

Summary: Someone lies, everyone dies isn't thrilled about it (520 words)

---

“That’s it! Never again!” Vier shouted after thoroughly rinsing her mouth out with water. “Wyll is never again to be trusted with cooking duties!” Gale quickly seconded her complaint.

“Oh, come on, this tastes perfectly fine!” Wyll protested.

The sound of loud arguing was like music to Shadowheart’s ears, and she wandered over to the campfire, curious to see who might draw daggers first. “Ooh, the local paragons of virtue are going at it…and Gale, I suppose. Who’ll make it to the end of dinner, I wonder?”

“Well, it won’t be Wyll if he tries to make me eat another spoonful of that atrocity!” Vier spat, pointing at the bowl in Wyll’s hands. Shadowheart’s eyes traveled to the bowl and saw something fluffy, white, and steaming inside.

“...Mashed potatoes?” she asked, the corners of her mouth struggling not to raise in a smug smile. “Did you screw up mashed potatoes that badly?”

“Not mashed potatoes,” Vier hissed. “Mashed cauliflower. He certainly said he was making mashed potatoes!”

Wyll wasted no time defending himself. “If I didn’t, Gale wouldn’t have eaten it! The man’s…how old are you now? Nevermind, what matters is he’s more than old enough to start eating some damned vegetables! And I had fully expected this sort of tantrum from him, but from you, Vier?”

In one swift blow, Wyll had managed to scandalize both Gale and Vier. “I’ll have you know, I am more than capable of eating a vegetable,” Gale objected, “but when making a fine roast or stew, anything more than carrots and onions simply distracts from the flavor, I feel.”

“And I just don’t like fucking cauliflower,” Vier interjected with a bit of a pout, “nor do I like getting a big spoonful of what I think is salty, buttery, fluffy potato and instead receiving a mouthful of lies.”

“So if I cooked up a batch of broccoli right now, you’d eat it?” asked Wyll pointedly. While Vier was quick to answer that she quite enjoyed cooked broccoli, Gale was far more hesitant to answer.

“Look, I won’t deny Mr. of Waterdeep here’s got issues getting his leafy greens,” Vier sighed, “but the next time you try to sneak him some proper roughage, can you not do it with cauliflower, at least? And, you know, maybe don’t lie to the rest of us about it.” Gale looked as though he’d been abandoned by his truest companion.

“I-I do not have problems with vegetables! I will prove it to you, damn it! Give me the mash!”

Wyll gladly handed over the bowl of mashed cauliflower, and Gale stuffed an absolutely heaping spoonful into his mouth. From the tears in his eyes, it was clear he was immediately regretting his decision, but he continued to soldier through it; for if there was anything which drove that man to breaking his limits, it was being told he wasn’t capable of something. 

“You know, I was almost hoping for a fight to break out,” said Shadowheart through a smirk as she cracked open a bottle of wine to watch Gale shovel down cauliflower, “but this is honestly funnier.”

[avionvadion]

Excuse me, but the clown attacked Astra. Not the other way around. She was defending herself. All she did was tell a bad pun and then go up on stage when asked to, and he tried to stab her. And it wasn't with a retractable knife.

Get yo' facts right.

MAJOR KARLACH SPOILERS BELOW

EXCUSE ME!??? ARE YOU LOOKING AT THE SAME FACE I AM!??? DO YOU SEE THOSE RED PUPPY EYES!??? THAT CURLY SILVER HAIR!??? THAT BEAUTIFUL FACE ENDOWED WITH SADNESS!???

Not sure if I wanna say "hello" after you insulted Astarion like that...

YES PLEASE.

...Uh, hi. Sorry to interrupt. Looking for someone. Glad we saved you. Death by Mindflare is not the way to go.

...Completely understandable, ma'am, have a good day. Enjoy your Mindflare corpse. Astra shall be leaving now. Bye.

OMELUUM~! T_T

Sigh. I'm not into squids, but damn I love Omeluum. I'd take him over the Emperor any day. Omeluum is at least nice.

Anyways, I found Gortash.

It was a bit of an... experience. I ended up clearing out the entirety of Wrym's Rock Fortress. Gortash was no longer holding the ordination ceremony- either because I freed the gnomes or blew up his factory; maybe a bit of both, honestly- so when I found him he was just... chilling with some people around a desk talking. Almost looked like he was eating dinner over warplans, lol.

He's dead now! WOO!

KARLACH, NOOOO!!!! T_T I WON'T LET YOU!!!!!

I will lose it if she dies. I saw something about her story being tied with Wyll's, so here's hoping, but oh my gods.

ASTRA LOVES YOU TOO, KARLACH. I LOVE YOU.

EVEN ASTARION LOVES YOU. NO DYING, KARLACH.

*sobbing uncontrollably*

*sobs even harder*

[maegalkarven]

8 pls, all or any, I know you have several bhaal babes

All, please! Thanks for asking me about them :3

Levi: the grove is the big branching point for him. He took the path of destroying goblins, but literally nothing was stopping from taking the other path. Tieflings were the first ones to call for goblins' blood, but if goblins approached him first and suggested killing all the tiefs - he would do that.

Another major branching point (we're entering non-canon territory) is if Gortash survives or not and if Levi allies with him or not. Depending on that Levi's path branches into his path to godhood (he usurps Bhaal's place and erases every memory of him from the existence) or his path to conquering Hells (which started as a quest to help Wyll kill Mizora and help Karlach deal with Zariel). Ironically, Gortash is what ties Levi to humanity/mortality. With him dead Levi would have no power holding him back and would climb the stairs to godhood and to his loneliness.

There were also two branching points in his life prior game events: first was when he met Duke Ravengard when he was 6 and just killed his foster parents. His life would go by the other path if some things went differently, but it didn't.

The other is him meeting an old weird druid at the age 10 (Levi killed the druid). Levi was curious about druid's magic and he could either pursue that curiosity or not. He decided to pursue, which formed his personality outside Bhaal and even allowed him to have any.

June (selûnite): he has several branching points, first one of them is pre-game, but funnily, both of these branches end in the same result. Pre-tadpole June either prayed to other gods than his Father or not. If he did, Selûne eventually answered his prayer. If not, June assumed he was a selûnite bc he had a moonstone amulet on his body (Ketheric's) on the nautiloid.

Another big branching point is, as well as in Levi's case, is the way he deals with Gortash. He either tadpoles Gortash or agrees to everything the man says. If it's the first, Gortash survives and June goes to Underdark to "save" it. If it's the latter, Gortash dies from Netherbrain's command ; June becomes the new Chosen of Bane (Bane has been keeping an eye on him for a long time).

June's (cambion) path is yet uncertain and I can't say much about possible branches he has.

Nemo's path is pretty straightforward, aside from one branch.

Nemo was originally going to proceed with the raid on the grove, and in some universe he probably does. However, in his current universe Nemo hears Zevlor's speech about how tieflings were never given easy choices or gentle paths - and it resonates with him, so he turns his back on Minthara and defends the grove.