skygal-178 - Tumblr blog

skygal-178 · 8 days ago

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cover-art by the_glorious_void in IG

warnings: detailed smut description / NSFW / boy-on-boy romance / physical restraints and light torture / mention of blood and pain

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[art by Abraham Martinez Design] It’s a quiet evening on the Lucidian Ocean, overlooking the sun slowly setting into the horizon. “Almost home, Julién.” Captain Donahue slaps a firm hand on the salmon-red-skinned Tiefling’s shoulder. “We’ll be there before night falls, Captain.” “Good! We’ll hand off our spoils, restock our supplies, and head back out as quickly as we can. You know I don’t like being on land for too long, on board is where my livelihood is! Anyhow, I’m heading in for a bit, I trust you can dock without my presence.” “Of course, Captain, no worries. Rest well.” The Captain nods and heads down into his chambers. Not long after, Julién sends the crew down for a short rest. “Just call out if you do need help, kay?!” Ambroze — one of the Drow twins — yells out, receiving a thumbs up from Julién.

A few minutes go by before land is coming into view. And it’s another hour to arrive in the harbor. “Alright, time to get some help.” Julién whispers to himself, moving his hands and speaking a few arcane words. Four ringed-tail lemurs appear on the deck. “Help me with tying the ropes, please.” The monkeys immediately get to work, unraveling the ropes ready to jump across to the dock and back. He looks up to the birds-nest. “Keep them in check will you, buddy?” He yells out to the lemur, now hanging over the edge by his tail. They tie the rope around the cleat. And with that, the ship is secured. “Thank you for your service. Till next time, my friends.” He dispels the lemurs, and heads below deck to wake the crew. “You got your magical friends to help again, didn’t you?” Ambroze states as she sits down on the deck waiting on her sister along with the others. “You had some well-deserved rest, didn't want to disturb you. You know me.” “It’s a perfect docking, that’s all that matters to me, no matter how it’s done.” Captain Donahue praises. “I’m ready! Let’s go!” Brynna skips onto the deck, all dressed for a night out on the town.

Not too much later the crew is seated at the Lavish Chateau, a high-end Inn located in the Opal Archways of Nicodranas. “Good evening, what can I get for you lot?” The Half-Orc hostess comes by their table. Captain orders one Gallon of Ale, Julién shares a bottle of Feywine with the Twins, Harold — the red haired human man — asks for a tankard of cider, Lillium — a female brass dragonborn — and they order a cheese and meat platter for all to share. The general lights dim, as the candles on each table are lit and a spotlight focus on the center of the stage. Walking down the stairway to the left of the stage, is an elegant tiefling lady. Smooth ruby red skin, long dark red wavy hair, glowing golden eyes and a set of big curling horns adorned with jewellery and ribbons. Walking up center stage, where an Elven man playing a romantic rhythm on a big wing piano. Sitting down on the edge of the piano, she starts signing a story and instantly pulls you in with her soothing voice.

[art by artofsamhogg]

Guess mine is not the first heartbroken. My eyes are not the first to cry. I'm not the first to know. There's just no getting over you. I know I'm just a fool who's willing. To sit around and wait for you. But baby, can't you see there's nothing else for me to do? I'm hopelessly devoted to you.

They all listen intently, as the lady’s voice echoes throughout the inn. It feels like forever for the song to come to an end, and when it does the audience applauds and praises. Roses are thrown onto the stage, and one lucky gentleman receives a blown kiss. When the lady has vanished back up the stairs, all the customers turn back to their conversations. “Alright, I’m meeting someone for a potential job. You all enjoy your evening and I’ll see you back on the ship tomorrow.” Captain Donahue excuses himself. “Good luck Captain.” “Good evening.” The crew says their goodbyes, as Harold and Lillium also take their leave.

“Another glass?” Brynna asks, pouring herself and her sister another. “Yes, please.” He nudges his glass forward. As the hours pass by another magical performance welcomes the night-time clientele. At some point, Ambroze nudges Julién’s shoulder. “You’ve got an admirer.” She whispers. Julién follows her gaze, looking over at a handsome, white-haired Elf sitting at the bar. “He’s been eyeing you, ever since he walked in.” She adds, encouraging him to make a move with a cheeky wink. There’s a moment of eye contact, as Julién is looking over, just as the guy does as well. Julién expects the elf to turn away from being caught, but he doesn’t. Instead a slight smirk forms on his face and he just continues sipping his drink. “Well..” Brynna eyes Julién. “Well, what?” “Go get some!” Ambroze encourages with another nudge to his shoulder. “Would you stop doing that!” “What this?” Another nudge. “Or this?” Brynna joins in with the nudging. “Gods, why am I even friends with you!” “Because we help you get laid. Now get your cute butt over there, or we will!” They all speak in a whisper. Rolling his eyes at the twins, Julién finishes his glass of fine wine and gets up from his seat. Making his way over to the bar. Noticing the now empty glass of the white-haired elf, he is standing beside. “What can I get you?” The bartender asks. “One bottle of Firewine with two glasses, and a key to your finest room, please.” Julién orders, immediately catching the elf's attention. The half-orc looks between the two and catches on quickly. “We have a few themed rooms, ‘Lover’ and ‘Midnights’ are available.” She hands him a small booklet with a hand-painted representation of each room.

‘Lover’ has a pastel color scheme, lots of hanging plants by the deep window will and sheer curtains decorated with soft pastel clouds. ‘Red’ is darker, with a red and gold color scheme. Thick suede curtains hang in front of the windows, a black and gold hearth stands against the right wall, and a large canopy bed in the center.

“Red, please.” The elf requests, looking up at Julién. “I’ll have the wine brought up, give me a moment.” And with that the half-orc lady heads off, leaving the blue-skinned Water Genasi in charge of the bar. Julién makes eye contact with the white-haired elf, looking into his baby blue eyes for the first time. “I’m Julién.” He takes his hand and kisses the top gently. “My name’s Astarion.” The elf introduces himself, pleasantly surprised by the way Julién just presented himself. Noticing the Half-Orc lady coming down the stairs with room keys in her hand. “Astarion, would you be so kind to accompany me upstairs?” “With pleasure, darling. Lead the way.” So he does, taking Astarion’s hand and leading him up the stairs to the room pointed out by the Half-Orc, as they pass her. She hands them the key and wishes them goodnight.

Upon entering the room, there is an undeniable heat between the two men. Locking the door behind him, Julién opens the bottle of Firewine and pours two glasses. While Astarion is getting comfortable on the big king-size bed. “Ahh! This bed is heavenly!” Astarion exhales in ecstasy, burrowing himself into the soft red silk sheets. “Not as heavenly as the sight in front of me.” Julién walks over to the bed, hands Astarion a glass, and sits next to Astarion. With that sentence, Astarion’s cheeks flush a soft shade of pink, as he takes the glass. “I’ve never seen you at the Chateau before, are you from around here?” A hint of uneasiness rises within Astarion, as he quickly comes up with an answer. “Oh yes, I only moved here recently. Got me a small home near the beach.” “I see, I’m quite ocean-bound. Spend a lot of my time on our ship, traveling for trade.” “I’ve never been on a ship, not much of a fan to be honest. I’d much rather spend my time exploring underwater.” It’s a risky statement, but to Astarion a worthy one to make. In the spirit of building relationships on land. “Really? Have you gone down often? How deep have you gone? Do you possess some sort of magical means to breathe underwater? Would you be able to share that ability?” Julién sits up straighter at the mention of the underwater world. Bombarding Astarion with questions. It has always been a dream of his to explore, but he has never found the time or capability to do so. “Uhm..” Lost for words at the sudden burst of enthusiasm, Astarion leans back slightly. Julién notices and immediately calms himself. “I’m sorry.. I didn’t mean to overwhelm you. I’ve just.. I’ve always wanted to dive down there, sea all the wonders the oceans has to offer.” A moment passes before Astarion speaks up again. “I.. I could take you.” The words spoken from his lips are almost as shocking to himself as they are to Julién. “You would do that? Are you able to do that?” Astarion swallows, knowing fully well that his family wouldn’t approve, but this is the first time he has ever done anything like this. And he is not about to slip through his fingers. “Yes, I can. In fact… I’m going back down tomorrow. If you wanna join me.” Julién eyes grow big for a second, but then remembers his Captain's orders. ‘You all enjoy your evening and I’ll see you back on the ship tomorrow.’ And his eyes sink, he can’t disobey his Captain. “I’d love to, but I can’t, not tomorrow at least. We’re heading back off to sea.” He pauses. “But I’ll probably be back in a few weeks. If you’re still here.. we could go then.” “Yeah, I’ll wait for you.” Like a natural reflex, Astarion places his hand on Julién’s thigh. This time it’s Julién blushing.

He looks deeply into Astarion’s eyes, trying to read for a sign that gives him permission. What he sees is insecurity, in the sense of not really having any experience with intimacy like this. “Don’t worry, we’ll take it slow. And if you wanna stop, we stop. Alright?” Astarion nods, feeling a lot more comfortable with his reassurance. With consent given, Julién places his empty champagne glass on the nightstand beside him and rolls over on his side facing Astarion. Who is also placing his empty glass aside, as he does so Julién takes his chance to roll on his side facing Astarion. As he turns back around, his eyes are immediately met with Julién’s, their faces now a lot closer than expected. Julién moves a loose curl out of Astarion’s face, moving in closer, eyes closed until their lips touch. His hand gently rested on Astarion’s jaw. Leaving a series of sweet kisses. Astarion moves his hand up to Julién’s, intertwining their fingers. Not really knowing how to take this further himself, he hopes to let Julién he’s ready for more. In response Julién slowly moves his leg in between Astarion’s, gently nudging their growing erections against each other. Earning a soft moan from Astarion. “Ahh..” Hearing that heavenly sound encourages Julién to increase the pace. Rolling Astarion over onto his back, Julién gets off of the bed to strip down to just his underwear. He admires Astarion lying on the bed, still wearing too much clothes. Crawling in between Astarion’s legs, where he positions himself comfortably, locking lips. Not so subtly working on unbuttoning Astarion’s blouse.

Making his way down his baring chest, leaving a trail of soft wet kisses and stopping just at the waistband of the pants. Astarion's breath shortens at the arousing sensations coursing through his body. “D-don’t stop..” He encourages. “Your wish is my command, my lover.” Julién’s hand reaches down, clutching his own growing erection for some release, before unbuttoning Astarion's pants sliding it down, and shoving it off the bed. “Mmh! I’m gonna fuck you like a god.” Those are the famous last words, as he pulls the strings of Astarion's briefs loose and the now throbbing cock springs free. Julién gently strokes the shaft. Throwing his head back into the pillow, Astarion moans loudly. “AHH! GODS!” His face looks pained, not because he is in pain, but because these new stimulations are overwhelming. In a good way, a very good way. “Are you still okay?” “That’s good.” He picks up his stroking speed just slightly, receiving an involuntary buck of Astarion's hips. “You want more, lover? I’ll give you more.”

Taking the Elf’s hard shaft in his hand, starting at the base Julién licks all the way up. Leaving a soft kiss on his tip. He looks up at Astarion, making eye contact, as he takes the now already throbbing cock into his mouth. Moving his tongue in a circular motion over the tip, he keeps his eyes on Astarion. Making sure not to move too fast. He sucks, just lightly, moving up and down at a slow pace at first. Astarion’s body reacts involuntarily, as the euphoria runs across his entire body. Low moans escape his lips, in sync with the pace Julién is moving at. To which the Tiefling speeds up and takes it deeper. Feeling Astarion twitch in his mouth, he can’t keep the moan from coming out. Muffled by his filled mouth, the vibrations send Astarion bucking his hips up. Taking Julién by surprise as the tip hits the back of his throat. “Ah-I’m sorry!” “That’s okay. I’m just getting started, lover.” He takes Astarion’s hands, intertwining their fingers. As he goes down again. Slow and steady, taking in every inch of deliciousness. Leaving Astarion panting and moaning, in utter pleasure. “Mmhhh.. Stop-stop-stop! I don’t wanna finish yet..” Julién does as requested, moving his body up to face Astarion. Leaving a lingering kiss on his wet lips. “C’mere. Sit with me.” Taking Astarion’s hand, he sits up on and pulls his lover on his lap. “Are you ready for me? All of me?” He slides his hands down to Astarion’s ass, letting them slip into his undergarments. “I’ll be gentle, at first..” He places his arms around Julién’s neck, pulling himself closer. In an attempt to make it more comfortable, Julién positions Astarion so that his legs are wrapped around Julién’s back. “I can take it.” A smirk forms on the Tiefling’s face. Before he can even reach down, Astarion pulls down the band of Julién’s jockstrap. Sensing the wave of excitement from Astarion at the sight of his bare member. Julién eagerly pulls Astarion closer, making him straddle over his hot zone. “Mmhhh.. Gods, you're beautiful!” Astarion moans, grinding as they make out.

Getting to the point where Julién can’t wait any longer, he swiftly alines himself. His breath gets heavier, wanting to just fuck him all the way till morning, but he can’t do that. Not when he is actually enjoying this moment. For the first time in a long time. “Go on, I can’t.. I can’t..” Astarion looks down into Julién’s golden flame eyes, snapping him out of his thoughts. “I just.. I don’t want to hurt you..” “You won’t.. I’m good..” Not able to reply, Julién is taken aback by the sudden tightness around his near-exploding member. “AGH! FUCK!” With his mind and body running in overdrive, he manages to catch a glimpse of the handsome Elf riding him in euphoria. With both their climax approaching quick, Julién grabs Astarion’s butt and speeds up his motion. Heavy moans and groans fill the room, along with a soft creaking of the bed. As streaks of sweat run down their bodies. The heat reaches its peak with a salty fluid fireworks show ejects in between their bodies. Astarion is first, shortly following by Julién who pulls out and aims for his owns chest. Their fluids mix together, as it trickles down his chest and over his abs.

Sitting like this for a long moment. Astarion has fallen forward into Julién, who is holding him drawing mindless shapes into his back. About a minute passes when Julién breaks the quiet. “We should clean ourselves.” “Mmhm.. it’s.. sticky..” Astarion agrees with a soft chuckle. “C’mon.” Julién chuckles along, as he gets up from the bed. Leading Astarion over to the small ensuite lavatory. He grabs a towel and wipes the residual cum off Astarion’s toned body. The favor is returned in kind, as Astarion takes the towel from Julién and wipes the Tiefling’s chest and abs clean and dry. Looking out the window, the sun has long set and a big full moon adorns the starry night sky. “Tired?” Julién walks right up against Astarion’s bare back. Leaving sweet kisses across his shoulder, up his neck, and over the Elf’s sharp jawline. “Mmhhh.. I could use some sleep yeah..”

They walk back over to the big king-size canopy bed. Getting comfortable under the soft dark purple duvet. Astarion curls up into a fetal position, the first night back it always takes some getting used to. A shiver runs down his spine when he feels the warmth of Julién's body wrapping around him from behind. This will make falling asleep much easier. “Sweet dreams, my lover.” Julién quietly whispers into Astarion’s ear, followed by a soft peck on the tip of Astarion’s pointy ear.

Waking up the next morning, Astarion rolls over into what he was expecting to be Julién’s arms. But it’s just an empty space. “Mmghh….” He groans in displeasure. His eyes flutter open to see a small piece of folded parchment on the nightstand on his side. Written on it is a lovely message.

A small smile forms on his lips, but there’s a definite sadness behind his eyes having woken up by himself and not wrapped in Julién’s warmth. Now fully awake, Astarion crawls out of bed and washes his face, before getting dressed in the same clothes from last night. It doesn’t really matter, because they will change once he hits the waves anyways.

After making the bed, he leaves the room. Down in the Inn of the Lavish Chateau, he hands in the room keys. “Thanks, doll. Had a great night, I presume.” The half-orc lady takes the keys with a kind and knowing smile. “Uhh…” “Oh, it’s nothing to be shy about. It’s kind of what we’re known for. Providing a safe place to have all the fun, all night long.” “Right.. Yes, we had a great night.” Astarion pauses, feeling some coins rattling its he reaches into his pocket. “How much do I owe you?” “Oh, everything’s been paid for, doll.” “I see.. thank you..” “Have a good day, sir.” She salutes, and with that, Astarion heads out to the beach.

Out at sea, the ‘The Crimson Storm’. Julién is sailing West of Nicodranas, near the Dead Row Reef. Captain had taken up a job. Apparently the fisherman have been having trouble with unknown sea creatures eating up all the fish. Their catches have been slimmer and slimmer each week, and it heavily influences their income, and fish prices have gone through the roof. “Alright, so they have spotted shark-like creatures around Deep Row Reef. They’re fast, so keep a close eye out y’all!” Captain Donahue commands the crew. Each takes a side or corner to stand watch.

[art by the-glorious-void]

Going into the evening, the winds are picking up. Still nothing so far. No shark fins or half-eaten fish in sight. That is until.. “There!” Ambroze calls out, pointing out into the water from the starboard side. “I saw a fin. It was fast, really fast. I think it went underneath the ship!” She calls out to her sister on the other side. “Spotted! Prepare the harpoon!” Brynna commands the crew as lead artillery. As quick as it was commanded, the harpoon is set and ready to shoot. “He’s fleeing! Try to keep pace Julién!” “Aye!” He calls back, picking up knots. First shot, miss. Reload. Second shot, miss. Reload. Third shot.. “Hit! Quick throw the net out!” Lillium and Harold are already standing behind Brynna, who keeps the line tight. While the Harold and Lillium haul in the net, Julién is trying his best to keep the ship steady. With a thud, the shark creature is thrown onto the deck, tangled in the net, and a harpoon stuck in its tail fin. Captain walks up to the crew surrounding this shark creature. “Well well, so you’ve been ravaging our ocean, huh? I wonder how many more of you there are out there. But for now, you’ll suffice.” The creature screams out in anger and.. fear. “Bring him down, I prepared a tank. I’d like to know more about their kind.” Lillium and Harold nod. With no magic means to subdue the creature, they have no choice but to brute force it. But it’s not going down without a fight. It takes the extra hands from the twins and a muzzle, but they finally manage to bring him down to the cargo hold and into the tall 10-by-10-foot tank.

Exhausted from the struggle and long day on the sea, Julién anchors out. The crew has already gone to bed, while he got some help from his loyal lemurs. Curious to see what mysterious creatures have been living in their ocean, after docking Julién heads down to the cargo hold. A saltiness hangs in the air, from the salt water in the tank. There are quiet splashes echoing throughout the cargo hold. Whatever it is, that Julién was expecting or maybe even hoping to see, it was most definitely not the familiar face he saw before him now. White curly hair, piercing red eyes, and a sharp-toned jawline. Muzzled and adorned with gills down his neck. “A-Astarion..”

Looking down at his half-humanoid, half-Silvertip shark body in utter surprise. “I.. What..” He pauses realising the situation Astarion is in. “Oh gods! I’m so sorry!” Julién walks right up to the glass of the tank. Noticing Astarion has not said anything yet, or even moved much since noticing Julién’s presence. It quickly becomes clear to Julién that Astarion doesn’t know what to say. Looking around, he spots the crates stacked like stairs leading up to the top of the tank. “Alright, c’mere.” He states, as he walks up the steps and sits down by the rim of the tank. He takes off his boots and socks, rolling up his pants to just under his knees. Dangling his feet over the rim and into the salt ocean water. “You.. look beautiful.” The compliment gives Astarion a sense of assurance, and thus he swims up to break the water. Julién reaches out, and motions to the strap of the muzzle going around his head. Astarion swims forward, shyly settling in between Julién’s legs. Who makes quick work of unbuckling the straps at the back of Astarion’s head, releasing him from the muzzle. “There, that’s better.” The Tiefling smiles kindly at the familiar Elven face. Though now adorned with the additional aquatic features; the gills, triple pointed ears, his now albino red eyes, and webbed fingers. “Thank you.. and.. I.. I’m sorry.. I didn’t.. I was gonna tell you.. when we would meet up again.. tonight and I was gonna show you around the reefs and my home.. I just..” “Can I kiss you?” Julién stops Astarion’s nervous rambling, taking him by surprise. Without saying another word, he is already moving in, eyes closed. As their lips meet in a soft and salty kiss, Astarion carefully pulls Julién into the water with him. He holds Julién around his waist, keeping them both with their heads above water. “Shh!” Julién suddenly places a finger over Astarion’s mouth to shush him. “What is it?” Astarion whispers back to him. “I think I heard something..” looking around the room for any sign of movement. “I don-“ Right when Astarion speaks up, a figure walks up to the tank from the shadows. “I knew he looked familiar, you’re the Elf from the Inn, right?” Brynna asks, but she already knows the answer. She’s just stretching for time before she has to do the unavoidable. “Brynn.. I.. Please, I have to get him out of here!“ Julién pulls himself up and out of the tank. Now standing about 15 feet away, face to face with Brynna. “I’m sorry.. Captain’s orders..” With tears in her eyes, she pulls out her self-made revolver, aims, and shoots! “NO! JULES!” Astarion’s eyes flare a bright red. He goes to climb out of the tank, but before he can get to the edge the water floods from underneath him. The tank shatters into a million pieces of glass, and he hits the wooden floorboards with a thud. “Fuck!” Brynna curses underground breath, reaching for a rope to tie the shark-elf up. “What in the hells! What happened?” “Just help me, tie him up too!” Brynna commands her sister, the others will probably be joining them soon enough. Ambroze looks over at Julién lying on the ground, a small pool of blood forming on the ground beneath him. “Did.. did you shoot him?!” “Captain’s orders, sis. The creature will be delivered alive.” “And what.. our friend is not important anymore?” “This is all we have sis, I can’t lose this.. we can’t lose this! you know that! he was gonna sneak off with his new boyfriend.” Ambroze doesn’t say anymore, and starts to bind Julién’s hands behind his back. Quickly looking over the shot wound in his side, looks like it didn’t hit anything vital. “I’m sorry..” She whispers to him, before helping Brynna with tying up Astarion. They tie his hands behind his back and pull him up by his tail, hanging him upside down from one of the ceiling beams.

[art by the-glorious-void]

After Captain Donahue checked in on the situation and called for round o’clock watch shifts, the room has cleared. Leaving Julién unconscious, but stabilized, and Astarion still tied up and hanging. A wave of helplessness washes over Astarion, as he’s hanging face down and bound. His breathing is getting shallow, but that’s not on his mind at the moment. Looking over at Julién sitting against the crates unmoving. “Jules?” He whispers, his voice coarse and cracking from being out of water for too long. He takes a moment to focus. “I.. I love you.” As soon as the energy send along with those words hit Julién, he inhales deeply. His eyes flutter open, scanning his surroundings and feeling his hands tied behind his back. “Wha.. I was.. shot.. how.. Astarion!” He looks over to where the tank stood tall, but is now reduced to shattered glass on the ground. “I.. I can’t.. hold on.. for much.. longer..” Astarion’s voice comes out quietly and painfully. “Oh gods! Urgh!” Julién struggles with the rope around his wrists. “What-! Ah would you look at that, the traitor has awoken!” Harold states, gazing over the two captives. “Don’t worry, we’ll arrive at our destination soon enough. Receive a pretty penny for your boyfriend over here, and then we’ll deal with you afterwards.” He pokes into Astarion’s tail fin with his rapier as he mentions him, making Astarion squeal out in pain. Worry instantly hits Julién face, he really can’t take anymore! “What.. are you worried about your little fish friend..” He pushes in just a bit deeper. “AGHH!” The scream go pain feeds Julién anger, as he watches the tip of rapier poke out on the other side. “STOP!” “Or what?” “You need him alive! Captain’s orders!” He speaks out the last part slowly and methodically. “He’s already been out of water for too long, but I’m sure Captain won’t mind seeing the new wound you gave him be the reason he died..” Harold keeps a stern face, but looking at his weapon sticking through the shark fin and the blood now started to drip down. “Fuck! Fuck-fuck-fuck!” Realization hits him, he quickly opens a crate that says ‘water’ on it. Throwing a bucket full over Astarion. “Guess, I’ll leave this in then.. don’t want him to bleed out.” Julién shoots him a death glare as he walks out the room, back to his watch post outside the door.

“Thank you..” Astarion whispers, his voice slightly more alive. “Just hold on okay! I’ll get you back in the water!” Julién continues struggling with his bindings, more quietly this time. Finally, he manages to grab a piece of broken glass and cut the rope loose. Keeping a side eye on the door, and being as quiet as he possibly can be, he tippy toes over to his lover. He looks up to the rapper sticking out of his tail fin. “You’re gonna feel this.. I’m sorry..” He reaches, casting heat metal on it. As the blade heats up, cauterizing the wound. “Argh!” “I’m so sorry, but this will stop it from bleeding anymore..” “It’s o-okay.. thank you.. Jules..” “You can thank me, once we’re out of here.” As he follows the rope to where it’s tied, Julién takes out a dagger. He holds the rope while cutting to make sure Astarion doesn’t just fall to the ground. Letting him down slowly and carefully. Walking over he unties Astarion’s hands and.. tail. “It’s alright, you can touch it.” Astarion states, noticing the hesitation in Julién’s movements. “Right.. okay.. let me just..” His hand reaches down, releasing his tail from the rope. “So.. you know another way out then..” Astarion rolls over to face Julién. “Yes, indeed I do.. however, it will be loud..” Before Astarion can respond or object, Julién rummages through one of the crates and drinks up a potion. Then walks over and picks up Astarion, bridal style. He moves over behind a stack of potato sacks and lights up a match. “You should cover your ears.” Astarion nods and does so, now having an idea of this other way out. Julién swiftly throws the lit match to a specific spot near the back of the cargo hold, instinctually towering over Astarion to protect him from any potential flying debris. The loud boom of the explosives echoes throughout the entire vessel. Water fills the hold rapidly. “That works..” Astarion coughs, his voice still sounding a bit dry. “Let’s go!” Julién picks Astarion up, walking straight into the flood of water, through the hole that he just blew into the side of the ship and out into the ocean. Leaving the now sinking ship behind them, Julién looks back one more time. Seeing this, Astarion takes his hand. “That was.. very brave.. and.. I didn’t.. expect you to do that..” Feeling rehydrated in the salt ocean waves, Astarion looks into Julién’s eyes. “Me neither.” Is all Julién says, before pulling Astarion into a sweet passionate kiss. “Let’s go down. You said you’d take me, and with this I have 24 hours.” He takes out a scroll case, revealing a scroll of water breathing. A soft smile forms on Astarion's face, as he takes Julién hand. “Get ready then.”

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#astarion #baldur's gate 3 #fanfiction #sharkstarion #d&d #fantasy #wildemount #ruby of the sea #critical role #menagerie coast #fan art #smut #nsfw

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skygal-178 · 1 year ago

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IMOGEN & LAUDNA ORIGINS

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A story of two complete strangers and the strong bond that blossoms between them!

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artwork by @shadydruid characters by laura bailey and marisha ray from @criticalrole

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“Imogen, I.. I’m sorry! I don’t.. I’m sorry!” Before Laudna can say anymore, Imogen reconnects their lips once more sweet little kiss. “I’m not. You’re the most wonderful person I’ve ever met, Laudna. And I like you.. a lot..” “But not right now.” “Maybe just.. be friends, for now.. and see where it goes.” Laudna gives Imogen a soft smile and nods, before leaning in for another hug. “Let’s go to bed, we’re gonna have a long day tomorrow.” Imogen nods, and the two head below deck to their quarters.

The next morning a sound of a bustling wharf surrounds the ship, with street vendors yelling a small distance into town and merchants selling their goods to the shop owners by the docks. “So where are you two of to now that you made it across?” Jester asks cheerful as ever, as she spots the ladies walk on deck. “Oh we’re heading to the Starlight Conservatory in Jrusar.” Laudna replies, sharing an assuring look with Imogen. “I would like to find out more about the origins of my powers.” Imogen adds. “You mean you didn’t get your powers from any of the Gods?” “That’s the thing, I don’t really know where they came from. I have always thought they came from my mother, but I don’t know much about her either.” “I hope you find what you're looking for there.” Fjord walks up to them, their son not far behind him. He keeps a bit of distance from Laudna and clings to his mother's side. “Safe travels to you too.” Imogen smiles, as she slings her bag over her shoulder. Jester, Fjord, and the rest of the crew wave them off as Laudna and Imogen disembark and start walking into town.

It doesn’t take too long for them to find a tavern to stay the night. Once that’s al settled, the ladies head out to find a way to Jrusar. Spending the afternoon walking around town and talking with some locals, they come across a traveling couple willing to take them along to the spire city. Taking a few days on horse cart, they arrive about midday at the base of the Lantern Spire. Passing through thriving markets and welcomed by locals selling travel and tourist goods. Filou - a young human lady, with long black hair and wearing layered clothes of beige, red and blue colors - and Gallant - a young tiefling man, with a burnt orange skintone and wearing the same type of layered clothing with additional metal armor plates covering the shins, knees and chest area - lead them across the Fatewalk, a stone bridge crossing to the Core Spire. “Thank you guy so much. We really aprreciate your help.” The guy and the girl nod and smile kindly as they waves them off.

As they walk around the base of the Core Spire, through the Windowed Wall neighborhood. When they suddenly hear a woman screaming from one of the houses nearby. “Why ah was that? Did you hear that?” Laudna looks up now fully alert. “Sounded like it’s coming from over there, c’mon!” Imogen immediately rushes over to where the scream is coming from. “HELP! HELP ME!” An older woman bursts through the front door of her house, completely panicked and out of breath. “Ma’am, it’s alright. You’re safe now. What happened?” Imogen places her hands on the elder's shoulders, trying her best to calm her down. “They were everywhere.. th-they came out of the ground..” “What came out of the ground?” Laudna asks, stepping up to them. “I.. I don’t know.. these small hooded creatures.. they crawled out from inside my closet. Started ransacking the place, and attacking me.” “We’ll go take a look inside, you stay here okay.” Imogen gives Laudna a nod, before the two heads inside the house. Where they immediately come face to face with about six of these small hooded figures. Laudna makes quick work of it, as one jumps towards her claws out. It drops down on the floor in front of her, dead. That catches the attention of the others. Luckily their nog very hefty creatures and they take them out one by one. Two more crawl out from the closet, but those are turned back on their heel in fear and mental agony. “Quick, let’s find something to cover up this whole.” Imogen and Laudna both starts looking around for something, anything. “These will work.” Laudna holds up two wooden planks, from the nightstand broken by the creatures. Imogen nods, holding the planks in place as Laudna nails them in place with her rock hammer she took out of her hair. Taking a little bit to be absolutely sure no more of those critters are able to break through, before walking back outside where the lady is still waiting.

“Oh, are you girls okay?! You didn’t get hurt did you? Gods I wouldn’t want you to get hurt for me!” She rambles. Imogen walks up to her. “We’re alright, ma’am. We got rid of those creatures.” “And we also managed to seal off the whole they came out of.” Laudna adds. “They won’t be hurting you anymore.” Imogen finishes, giving the lady her kindest smile. “Oh, thank you! Thank you so much!” The lady takes Imogens hands in her hers. “Please, let me set you ladies a nice pot of tea. Fresh from the market.” Imogen and Laudna share a look, before accepting the offer and following her back inside.

A couple of hours have gone by in the blink of an eye. Having just a nice hot cup of tea with this kind stranger is refreshing after their long travel. “I truly can’t thank you enough for ridding my home of those pesky little monsters. If there’s anything I can do for you, please come by whenever.“ Madam Zhudanna offers, pouring one last cup of freshly brewed tea for everybody. “Oh I’m just glad you’re alright, I hope our craftsmanship will hold them back from now on.” Imogen replies. Laudna gives Imogen a quick look, thinking about the one thing they are still looking for. Receiving a barely noticeable nod in return. “Actually, we just arrived here in Jrusar today and we haven’t really had time to find a place to stay. If there’s anything in the area you know about, that would be well appreciated.” Laudna states, taking a sip of her tea. “Oh well, there are a few taverns and inns around. You have the Spire by Fire here on the Core Spire, the Weary Way on the Lantern Spire and the Soot and Swill tavern on the SMolder Spire. Those are the best known. If you’d like to save yourselves some money, you’re welcome to stay over with me.” Zhudanna offers unexpectedly. “Oh.. well..” Laudna stutters looking over at Imogen who is already looking back at her. In a silent conversation, the ladies seem to agree. “That would be lovely, we could help out with groceries and chores as a way of payment.” Imogen smiles kindly at the elderly lady.

Some days later, Laudna and Imogen have made a little home for themselves in the room they have at Zhudanna’s. Going out for groceries when needed and taking odd jobs to earn enough coin to send a request letter to the Starpoint Conservatory on the Aerie Spire in the meantime. Taking a couple of weeks, but eventually they succeed and manage to send to letter.

Another couple weeks later, there still hasn’t been any reply. “Maybe we should just go over therev and ask in person. Showing enthusiasm in research might help in our favor.” Laudna suggests, noticing Imogen at a loss. “Yeah.. maybe..” Imogen sighs deeply. “I just don’t understand why it’s so dificult to just read some books, it’s not like I need to take them with me. I just wanna know where these powers came from.” She states, a hint of defeat evident in her voice. “Alright! That’s it, let’s go!” Laudna grabs Imogen’s hand, pulling her of her seat. “Wha- right now.. Laudna.. wait!” She gently pulls her hand free. “We’ve been waiting for weeks now, I bet those rich bastards haven’t even as much as glanced at our letter. And that’s just bullcrap!” The frustration in Laudna is building quickly. “You’re probably right.. I’d like to be a bit more prepared, so let’s go tomorrow.” Laudna nods and the two make their way back to Zhudanna’s place. Imogen’s demeanor become a bit more hopeful as they walk off down the road.

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AN: I'm so so so sorry for the late upload, I've been having serious writers block for the past months.. still struggling, but I really wanted to finish this story! I hope it doesn't feel rushed or anything.. Also I know it seems like a bit of an open ending, but this is the point where I imagine campaign three starts off with Imogen and Laudna going to the conservatory together.

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#critical role #imogen temult #laudna #bells hells #campaign 3 #fanfiction #origin story

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