#[minthara voice] a joke

[bogappreciation]

"making minthara easier to recruit removes the incentive to do an evil playthrough" "wahh minthara isn't unique anymore" if you want minthara to sit on your face you still need to murder the tieflings. outta my way zevlor im gonna get it

[ilikedetectives]

I'm all ears about bottom Minthara.

I keep thinking how nice it would be if there was a second scene for her romance when you reach act 3 and get together with her. And for it to be softer and more tender in comparison to the scene at the goblin party. I desperately need it and to have Tav take care of her please

I'm so normal about bottom Minthara, not because of the smut, but it shows her ultimate trust in Tav as their relationship evolves from Act 1 to Act 3. Given what she's been through, it's understandable for her to want to be in control, because let's be honest throughout the centuries under Lolth and then the Absolute, when was the last time her mind was her own for her to make a choice, for herself? (hint: "Tonight, I wanted this - for myself.") So for her to willingly trust Tav to let that go, even just for a few moments. Alurlssrin is unselfish, deep, unbreakable love, but do you know what Tav is? Tav is her tri âm tri kỷ (know the sound, know the self) in both romantic and platonic ways, do you understand?!?!?!? Her scars are invisible and Tav is the only one who sees through them, that is why she only cares for how Tav sees her through their eyes *go outside and scream*

Between "Tonight there will be no voices, no orders, no gods... I belong only to you." (Act 2/3) and "Minthara is my home." in the epilogue, I'd say there's nothing but soft between them as time goes on and it gets softer as each night passes.

The dream is a very soft romance scene after "I belong only to you." which is a total contrast to Act 1 (bonus is including the alurlssrin dialogue during aftercare). I wish Tav could also comfort her after saving her from Orin because that level of trauma coming back, ooof.

[dollthorne]

my mutuals changing their urls one after the other

who are you people.

[blackjackkent]

@astreamofstars suggested my next dive into the parsed dialogue files should be looking at the various Vicious Mockery lines available for player characters, and the ways the different companion character VAs speak them. This turned out to be quite challenging, as there are a LOT of them!

There are a total of 97 unique Vicious Mockery lines, each of which was recorded by all ten companion character VAs PLUS all twelve custom character VAs, for a total of 2,134 recorded lines, which is wild. (This is not including Ethel's 60 unique Vicious Mockery lines as well, which brings the total to 2,194.)

In this video, I've collected all 97 VM lines across all ten companion VAs, along with notes (where applicable) on things like

references to Shakespeare (or other pieces of media)

places where BG3 continues a time-honored tradition of the series by butchering archaic English grammar

interesting inconsistencies between the VAs or with the written dialogue

(If you notice any references I missed, please let me know and I might edit the video! :D )

In making this video, I ended up listening to all these lines a LOT, and I do love that some definite patterns emerge which are very on-brand for the characters in question.

Astarion often sounds deeply disdainful and at times almost bored. He barrels through some of the lines as if he doesn't think the recipient of his insult is even worth his time. (Also him calling someone a "parchment-pallored villain" is a bit rich, don't you think? :P )

Gale is deeply pleased with his own cleverness and laughs at his own jokes.

In my opinion, Dave Jones by far most Understood The Assignment; Halsin bellows out the lines like a Shakespearean actor playing to the back row and really relishes the language.

Jaheira is in full mother-tiger voice and clearly ready to kick ass and take names; she's not messing around. (With one exception - I have been laughing over Tracy Wiles's reading of "Mouthier than an arse, twice as full o' shite" for the entire duration of this project, because solely for that line she sounds like she's been possessed by some unknown force and is utterly baffled by the words coming out of her own mouth.)

Karlach reads most of these lines as either battle-cry or schoolyard taunt and seems utterly delighted in both cases. I enjoy that she adds a fun roll on her r's to sound all mockingly fancy.

Lae'zel generally sounds like she's about to rip someone's throat out and often seems completely oblivious to the humor involved, even on lines like the delightful pun, "As the leg, you'll end in defeat."

Minsc definitely doesn't know what most of these words mean but he makes up for it in enthusiasm. I enjoy that "Mouthier than an arse" becomes "mouthier than a butt" only for him. XD

Minthara, like Lae'zel, is mostly not coming at this from a place of amusement; she's MAD. She sounds like a judge handing down sentence in the most disdainful manner possible. (That said, she has my favorite deliveries on some of the lines with timing-related humor: "Thou art saucy... as gruel," "Thine eyes! Pools of tepid piss," "Like a summer's day... thou art sweaty," etc.)

Shadowheart just sounds deeply offended that her target is existing anywhere near her. She's practically spitting on all her plosive consonants and it's delightful.

Wyll sounds remarkably fierce given how nice a dude he is, but a lot of his lines have some righteous indignation (appropriate for a former noble and the Blade of Frontiers) - or he just sounds like he pities his opponent. His reading of "It vexes me to know of you" is my favorite of the whole cast; he just sounds so disbelieving of his target's stupidity.

Overall I think my favorite of these lines is towards the end: "Your body's a temple - to an idiot god!" All ten companions really stick the landing on that one. :D

Thanks for watching! Hope you enjoy.

(Got requests for other investigations into BG3 dialogue? Drop me an ask and let me know! )

[moonselune]

How about bg3 ladies being jealous??? If you haven't done that before ofc. :) I just wanna see the ladies be possessive and jealous. ❤️

YES YES YES

I LOVE THESE REQUESTS

Jealousy, possessiveness, an eeny weeny bit of control and coercion and manipulation:

Anywayssss

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Karlach:

The bustling tavern was filled with laughter, music, and the clinking of tankards. You were engaged in a lively conversation with a fellow adventurer, the two of you swapping tales of your exploits and exchanging hearty laughs. Across the room, Karlach sat nursing her drink, her fiery eyes fixed on you. Her usual jovial demeanor was replaced with a pout, her lips turned down and her brows furrowed.

As the minutes ticked by, her irritation grew. She shifted restlessly in her seat, her fingers drumming impatiently on the wooden table. Occasionally, she would glance your way, her pout deepening each time she saw you smile or laugh at something the other person said. Her frustration was palpable, and a few nearby patrons gave her wary glances, sensing the heat of her temper.

Unable to stand it any longer, Karlach slammed her tankard down on the table, the sound resonating through the tavern. She stood up and made her way over to you, her heavy boots thudding against the floor. She pushed through the crowd with a single-minded determination, her eyes never leaving you.

"Hey," she interrupted, her voice louder than necessary. "Can I steal you away for a bit?" Her tone was casual, but there was an unmistakable edge to it. Without waiting for a response, she grabbed your hand and pulled you away from the conversation, her grip firm but not painful.

The adventurer you were speaking with looked surprised but didn't protest. You were taken aback by Karlach's sudden appearance, but you followed her, a small smile playing on your lips. She led you to a quieter corner of the tavern, her hand never leaving yours.

Once you were alone, she turned to you, her pout giving way to a whine. "You were ignoring me," she complained, her voice a mix of hurt and frustration. "I've been sitting over there all by myself while you were off having fun without me."

You chuckled softly, wrapping an arm around her waist. "I wasn't ignoring you, Karlach. Just having a chat."

"Well, chat with me," she insisted, her eyes wide and pleading. "I need some attention too, you know." She tugged you closer, her arms wrapping around your waist possessively. "I missed you."

You couldn't help but smile at her adorable jealousy. "I missed you too, Karlach."

She looked up at you, her pout softening into a genuine smile. "Good," she said, her voice softer now. "Because I don't like sharing you." She leaned in, pressing her forehead against yours, her eyes closing as she breathed in your scent.

For the rest of the evening, Karlach stayed close to you, subtly ensuring you never strayed far from her side. She held your hand under the table, her thumb rubbing gentle circles on your skin. When you moved to get another drink, she followed, her arm looped through yours. She laughed at your jokes, her eyes shining with warmth, and her touch lingered on your arm or shoulder whenever she spoke to you.

It was clear to everyone in the tavern that Karlach had claimed you for the night, her possessiveness both endearing and protective. And as the night wore on, you found yourself appreciating the fierce loyalty and love she showed, knowing that no matter what, Karlach would always be by your side.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Minthara:

The tavern was alive with the clamor of patrons, the hum of conversation, and the occasional burst of laughter. You found yourself engaged in a conversation with a charismatic stranger, who was regaling you with tales of distant lands. You laughed at one of their stories, your eyes sparkling with amusement.

From across the room, Minthara watched, her eyes narrowing as she took in the scene. Her grip on her drink tightened, the goblet threatening to crack under the pressure of her grip. She had never been one to share, least of all when it came to you. The sight of you enjoying someone else's company was enough to stoke the embers of her jealousy into a raging fire.

Unable to tolerate it any longer, Minthara stood up, her chair scraping loudly against the wooden floor. She strode across the tavern, her movements purposeful and commanding, the crowd parting instinctively to let her through. Without a word, she reached you, her hand clamping down on your arm with a firm, unyielding grip.

"We need to talk," she hissed, her voice low and dangerous. She didn't wait for your response, dragging you away from the conversation and out of the tavern, her grip never loosening.

Once outside, she rounded on you, her eyes blazing with anger. "What do you think you're doing?" she demanded, her voice sharp. "Allowing such scum to even speak to you? Have you no sense of propriety?"

You couldn't help but smile, a small, amused grin that only seemed to infuriate her further. "Minthara, it's just a conversation. No harm done."

"Harm?" she snapped, her hands clenching into fists at her sides. "Do you think I enjoy watching you flirt with some lowlife? You belong to me, and I will not tolerate anyone else thinking they have a claim on you."

You leaned back against the wall, crossing your arms and regarding her with a mischievous glint in your eyes. "Are you jealous, Minthara?"

Her eyes flashed with a mix of anger and something else, something deeper and more possessive. "Jealousy is a weakness," she retorted, though her voice wavered slightly. "But I will not have you testing my patience like this."

You couldn't resist pushing her buttons further. "Oh, come on, Minthara. You know you love it when I'm a little reckless." You stepped closer, your tone teasing. "Admit it, you enjoy the chase."

Her jaw tightened, and she took a step forward, closing the distance between you. "You think this is a game?" she growled, her voice low and dangerous. "I could break you, right here and now."

You met her gaze, unflinching. "But you won't. Because you love me."

For a moment, the tension hung heavy in the air, the intensity of her stare almost overwhelming. Then, with a frustrated growl, she grabbed your face in her hands, pulling you into a fierce, possessive kiss. Her lips were demanding, her touch both punishing and tender, as if she was trying to remind you of exactly who you belonged to.

When she finally pulled away, her breathing ragged, she glared at you. "You will not test me like that again," she warned, though her voice was softer now, tinged with the undeniable emotion she tried so hard to hide. "I will not lose you."

You smiled, your heart pounding in your chest. "I know, Minthara. I just like seeing you like this. It reminds me how much you care."

She huffed, her eyes narrowing, but there was a hint of a smile on her lips. "You are infuriating," she muttered, her tone begrudgingly affectionate. "But I suppose I wouldn't have it any other way."

You leaned in, brushing a gentle kiss against her lips. "I love you too, Minthara. Now, let's go back inside. I promise I'll behave."

She sighed, shaking her head, but her grip on your hand was firm as she led you back into the tavern. And though she tried to maintain her stern demeanor, you could see the flicker of a smile in her eyes, the undeniable proof of her love for you.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Lae'zel:

The tavern was bustling with noise, laughter, and the clinking of tankards. You found yourself in an animated conversation with a local adventurer, who had been regaling you with tales of their exploits. The stories were amusing, and you couldn’t help but laugh at their jokes. As the conversation continued, you could feel a pair of eyes boring into the back of your head.

Lae'zel sat across the room, her eyes locked onto you and the stranger. Her expression darkened with each passing moment, the green in her eyes turning to a smoldering blaze. She had never been one for sharing, and watching someone else bask in your attention was more than she could tolerate.

Unable to sit still any longer, Lae'zel rose from her seat with the grace of a predator. She crossed the room in swift, purposeful strides, her presence causing a noticeable ripple in the tavern's atmosphere. Conversations faltered and eyes turned to watch the unfolding drama.

Lae'zel came to a halt beside you, her stance aggressive and unyielding. She fixed the adventurer with a glare that could melt steel. "Step away from my mate," she demanded, her voice a low, dangerous growl. The adventurer blinked, clearly taken aback by her sudden hostility.

"Lae'zel," you began, reaching out to touch her arm, but she shrugged you off, her focus entirely on the perceived threat.

"You think you can just talk to them like that?" Lae'zel continued, her hand moving to the hilt of her sword. "You dare to flirt with what is mine? I will end you right here if you do not leave."

The adventurer raised their hands in a placating gesture, clearly not wanting any trouble. "Whoa, I didn’t mean any harm," they said, backing away slowly. "We were just talking."

"Lae'zel, please," you said more firmly, stepping between her and the adventurer. You placed a hand on her chest, feeling the tension in her muscles. "There's no need for this."

Her eyes snapped to you, confusion mingling with her anger. "You are my mate," she stated, as if that explained everything. "No one else should be speaking to you like that."

You sighed, taking her hand and gently pulling her away from the adventurer. "I know, Lae'zel. But you can't just threaten people like that. It's not how things work here."

She allowed you to lead her outside, her steps reluctant. Once you were outside, away from prying eyes and ears, you turned to face her. "Lae'zel, I understand you're protective, but not everyone who talks to me is a threat. You can't just challenge people to fights."

She frowned, crossing her arms over her chest. "In my culture, if someone encroaches on what is ours, we defend it. Why should this be different?"

You softened, taking her face in your hands. "Because here, it's not always about fighting. Sometimes, people just want to talk. And if we fought everyone who looked at us the wrong way, we'd never have any peace."

Lae'zel's eyes searched yours, her frown deepening. "I do not understand this softness," she admitted. "But I will try, for you."

You smiled, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. "Thank you, Lae'zel. That's all I ask. Just try to understand that not everyone is a threat."

She huffed, clearly still not entirely convinced, but the tension in her posture eased. "Very well. But if anyone truly threatens you, I will not hesitate."

You laughed softly, hugging her tightly. "I wouldn't expect anything less."

As you held her, you felt her relax slightly in your embrace, her protective nature slowly giving way to the understanding that, while her ways might not always be suited to this world, her intentions were always rooted in her fierce love for you.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Shadowheart:

You were laughing, a sound that danced on the sharp autumn wind and pricked at Shadowheart like a thorn. Across the bustling marketplace, you stood bathed in the warm glow of a pastry vendor's lantern, your head thrown back in amusement as another figure, a handsome tiefling with a mischievous glint in his eye, leaned towards you..

Shadowheart tightened her grip on the hilt of her dagger, its cool metal a grounding presence against the unexpected flare of jealousy. Taking a deep breath, she tried to focus on your conversation. The tiefling's words were lost in the din of the marketplace,but Shadowheart could see the way his eyes sparkled as he spoke, the way he gestured with a flourish. Her fingers tapped a restless rhythm on the leather of her armor, her gaze flicking between the flamboyant bard and you.

Finally, she couldn't bear it a moment longer. As she neared, she saw the smile slowly fade from your face, replaced by a flicker of surprise when your eyes met hers.

"Shadowheart," you greeted, your voice warm, "Come join us. We were just talking about-"

"No need," she cut in, forcing a smile that felt strained even to herself. Her voice was clipped, colder than she intended."Wouldn't want to interrupt your... entertainment."

The tiefling chuckled, his eyes flitting between you and Shadowheart. You opened your mouth to speak, but Shadowheart turned away, the unspoken words hanging heavy in the air. Just as she began to walk away, a gentle touch on her wrist stopped her.

You stood before her , your brow furrowed in concern. The playful lilt of your voice from moments ago now replaced by a quiet sincerity. 

"Hey," you whispered, your eyes searching hers. "Come on, Shadowheart. You're never intruding, you know that."

Her composure faltered. The carefully constructed wall around her heart fell under your gaze. She sighed, a defeated sound escaping her lips. "It's just..." she began, her voice a low murmur. "I feel… jealous sometimes. I know it's petty, but…"

The rest of her confession died in her throat as you pulled her into a warm embrace. Her initial resistance melted away in the heat of your touch.

"You'll never lose me, Shadowheart," you murmured, "Never."

Leaning into the embrace, she found solace in your words. The embers of jealousy flickered and died.  "Thank you," she whispered, her voice barely above a breath. "I just needed... needed to hear that."

"I love you. Entirely."

"I love you too."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

I fell like I should give y'all a nickname. Luney? Should I call you Luneys now? Nonnie feels too generic lmk what you think - Seluney xoxoxox

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

WIBTA for dumping a guy because of a throwaway comment to my friend? (TW: NSFW statements)

I'm using BG3 character names for this because I don't want to use letters. The name assignments have nothing to do with personality, it's based off of an inside joke.

Important characters- Me, 18ftm. My S/O, Minthara, 21ftm. My friends (Halsin- 22m, and Astarion- 22neu)

I started dating Minthara a few months back. A month or so before we started dating, and a month after I turned 18, I introduced Minthara to my D&D group (Halsin DMs, and Astarion is one of the players.)

Halsin and Astarion are in a long-term relationship, and because my home life... sucks, to be frank, they're basically my surrogate family.

It's important to note that I am a CSA survivor. They've known me since I was 16, know I'm uncomfortable with sex talk most times, and am an incest survivor. I'm really grateful I have them, and when I introduced Minthara, it seemed like everything was going perfectly. He got along with everyone super well, aside from a few hiccups and bumps.

However, yesterday-as-of-writing this, we were talking about our D&D characters for a campaign Minthara wasn't present for, one we were thinking of adding him to once it got off of hiatus.

Astarion is a big fan of a certain character. Jokingly, I asked if that character and their D&D Character would get along. Minthara jumped in and stated that he thought the comfort character would eat the D&D character's ass.

I cannot state enough that this was out of nowhere, and made Astarion very uncomfortable. They and I tried to play it off and continue the conversation, and Halsin deleted the message in the discord. We checked in in a separate discord server, and Halsin brought up he was a little concerned.

Minthara is very sexual. As in, before we started dating, he sent me NSFW-explicit-noncon art of his D&D character sexual. I know he's recovering from purity culture/deconstructing, so I never minded other than asking him not to try and show his porn art to my D&D group with no warning and to stop talking about his kinks in public when we were out on dates, but when he did it to Astarion I was a little disconcerted.

One thing led to another, and a lot of friends are telling me to leave him. But on the other hand, he genuinely does love me. He's very romantic, and when we spend time together IRL I always come out feeling happy. My mom likes him, and I've met his parents, and I don't want to break his heart or anything. He sends a lot of long voice messages comparing me to nice things and talking about how much he loves me.

I don't want to hurt him, but I also don't want to be with someone who treats my friends like this- this isn't an isolated incident, just the first time it's affected someone other than me.

[trappedinafantasy37]

I couldn't stop thinking about Minthara planting night orchids in her garden as she genuinely thinks that they are poisonous. So, I wrote a little snippet of her learning that they are not poisonous.

------------------------------

Minthara sits at the desk in her study, reviewing some of the letters written by the patriars of the city. She takes a drink from the wine glass in her hand, laughing with amusement as she reads the letters. They are all begging her to release the funds she has secured in the Counting House that she still holds in lock down. Who knew how easily she could manipulate the city legislature by simply denying its sitting members their fifth vacation to Waterdeep in six months.

She sets aside one letter after having completed it and pulls out another one, ready for more comedy. She has no intentions to release the gold and she wants the patriars to squirm. Let them know that they are under her thumb.

As she reads, she hears the muffled sounds of laughing and barking outside. She smiles to herself as she pictures her beloved outside playing with the dog. She stands up from her desk and walks to the window. Peeling back the curtain and squinting her eyes, Minthara watches as Scratch runs back towards the half-elf with a slimy ball in his jaws.

Shadowheart crouches down and pets the dog behind his ears, rubbing her forehead against the top of his head. She takes the ball from Scratch's mouth and walks back towards the cottage. She opens the back gate and continues through the garden. Shadowheart stops for a brief moment and looks at the night orchids that Minthara has been growing for the past few months. Minthara's heart drops into her stomach as Shadowheart kneels to the ground and begins to touch its poisonous petals.

The drow whips open the curtains, ignoring the burning pain as the sun shoots light beams directly into her eyes. She furiously taps on the window to get the half-elf's attention. "Are you mad? That is poisonous."

Shadowheart looks at the window and cocks her head, "Wha..." she says, but the word is muffled from the thick window between the two elves.

"Stop touching the damn flower! It is poisonous. It will kill you, you fool." Minthara says louder at the window, panic rising in her chest as the half-elf won't remove her hands from the flower pedals.

"What do yo... ...ower is not... ...sonous..." Shadowheart's voice is still muffled and Minthara is unable to discern her words. In a panicked frenzy, the drow runs through the cottage and outside into the garden.

"The flowers are poisonous, Shadowheart. What kind of madness would compel you to touch a plant you know is deadly?" Minthara says gently grabbing the half-elf's wrist and pulling her away from the night orchids. All Shadowheart does is giggle as the drow drags her up to the porch. "You will not be in such a jesting mood when you lie on the ground, croaking out like a frog as the poison does its work and thickens your blood like spoiled milk." Minthara slams open the door back into the cottage and drags the cleric into the kitchen. Her panic begins to mix with annoyance as Shadowheart continues to laugh as Minthara frantically gathers her antidotes.

"Minthara... You don't..." Shadowheart struggles to speak through her laughter, "You don't actually think that night orchids are poisonous do you?" she asks, wiping away a tear.

"Of course I do, you told me as much yourself. Drink this. Quickly." the drow hands an open antidote vial to the cleric. "We only have a short time to counter the effects of the toxins. When you finish, we will need to scrub your hands of any residue."

Shadowheart grabs the vial and walks to the counter with a smile on her face, returning the cork back into the top. "Minthara, love, I was joking when I said they were poisonous. Do you not remember that?"

"If you were joking, you failed to clarify that." Minthara sets her hand on the counter, trying to simmer her anger.

"Was it that I failed to clarify, or did you just stop paying attention after I said it was poisonous?"

Minthara taps her fingers against the counter. She recalls that day in the shadow lands, following behind the half-elf as Scratch sniffed out the flower. It was growing out of the side of a tree that hung over a rock cliff. "You refused to touch the flower. I had asked you why you did not want to pluck your favorite flower off that fallen log. You said that it was, and I quote, 'deadly poisonous'."

"And then I did this..." Shadowheart slumps over and points her fingers at the drow, "and said, 'Joking!'" she recites in a sing-song tone.

Minthara furrows her brow and pinches the corner of her lips. Shadowheart did no such thing! Did she?

"All of the poisons that I have been crafting these past months. All of them... useless... worthless..." the drow grumbles to herself.

"Wait, you've been using the night orchid in your poisons?"

"Yes. Because I had been led to believe that they were poisonous. Why do you think I was growing them in the garden?" Minthara sighs and shakes her head.

"I thought you were growing them because I liked them..." Shadowheart's voice trails off.

"Partially. I figured that if I was to microdose you with poison, that it would be more palatable to mix it with something you were familiar with."

"And if you knew from the beginning that they weren't poisonous, would you still have planted them?"

"Yes." Minthara looks to the half-elf as if the answer should be obvious. "Most of the fungi I have out there are not poisonous. I nurture them because I like them. They remind me of my home. And I would have done the same for you as the orchid does hold a place in your heart. Although they would not take up half the real estate in my damn garden as they do now." Minthara holds her hands before her and starts to shape them. "They would take up a little corner, or perhaps line the edges of the garden. Now I have to find a way to replace them. Make room for actually poisonous plants."

Shadowheart giggles and steps closer to the drow, wrapping one arm around Minthara's neck. "Why did you grow so many?"

"Some were to be harvested for the poisons. Others were to remain untouched, just for you to view every morning when we take the dog for a walk."

"I knew you were a romantic." Shadowheart leans forward and weaves her lips with her paladin. Minthara grabs onto Shadowheart's waist and pulls their bodies closer together, letting the frustration of the misunderstanding wash away.

------------------------------

Her knees scrape against small pebbles as she kneels to the ground, fingers clawing into the dirt. Frustration bubbles in her chest as she digs around the plant before her.

"Hmph." Minthara scoffs to herself. "Useless plant. Of course, she reveals to me after I fill half the garden with them that she was merely 'jesting'." The drow lifts her fingers out in the air and makes air quotes around the word, still not believing the half-elf's claim of making such a joke. She shakes her head as she returns to her work in digging up the orchid.

Once enough of its stem is exposed that she should be able to pull it out of the ground. But the stem itself is very thin and can easily break with too much pressure. She digs just a little more around it until its roots are exposed. She grabs onto the stem as gently as she can and slowly pulls it out of the ground. The orchid is not willing to release itself as its roots are properly intertwined with the earth.

Even though it is not poisonous as she had believed it to be, she does still admire the flower. It is, after all, one of the only natural things to survive the shadow curse on its own. Even with all the odds against it, where the air and the land beneath it had been poisoned by Shar, it managed to prevail where all else failed.

She doesn't fight the smile the tugs at the corner of her lips as she places the flower into the vase she brought with her. It is a resilient flower that has defied the very gods themselves and refused to be corrupted by the darker influences that threatened to swallow it whole. Much like a cleric that is close to her heart.

Minthara continues along the edge of the garden, digging up more of the orchids and placing them into the vase she brought with her. Once she has a nice set of flowers in the vase, she stands up and walks up to the porch. She sets it on the table and she grabs a mini shovel and digs into a bag of soil she has resting on the table. She gently pours it into the vase and packs it into the base so that it may serve as some nourishment for the flowers. Satisfied that the vase has been properly prepared, she sets the mini shovel on top of the bag of soil and removes her gardening gloves.

With the vase in hand, she walks through the cottage and into the living room. Shadowheart lays sprawled out against the couch with a blanket draped over her lower body, a book in one hand and a glass of wine in the other. A warm fire cackles in the fire place, proving some light in the room. Shadowheart lifts her eyes from the book and watches as Minthara sets the vase on the table in the center of the room. The drow taps her fingers ever so gently against the petals, attempting to fluff them up so that they look more presentable.

"It's a shame you have to rip up the flowers." The half-elf says as the drow walks over to the couch.

"Why would I rip up the flowers? That would just be a waste." Minthara asks as she lifts up Shadowheart's legs and sits on the couch. She sets the half-elf's legs in her lap as she makes herself comfortable on the furniture.

"Because they're not poisonous like you thought they were."

"No, they are not poisonous. But that is hardly a reason to rip them up from the garden, at least not all at once and I will slowly rotate some of them out. They still have some usage." Minthara waves her hand to the vase, "Now we have a lovely decoration."

Shadowheart lifts an eyebrow to Minthara. "And here I thought you were going to burn them all. You were rather upset about it earlier."

Minthara sighs and rubs her hand along Shadowheart's leg, "I was not upset to discover that the orchids were not poisonous. I was upset to discover that you and I are not inoculated against poison like I had thought we were. I worry now that if someone attempts to poison you, you may struggle to fight it on your own."

Minthara looks into her lap as her mind grows heavy to the thought of someone attempting to assassinate her beloved in the worst way she can imagine. She already lost one lover to poison, she cannot lose another in the same way. Shadowheart sits up and places her book and wine glass on the table. She scooches closer to the drow and places a hand on her cheek, turning Minthara's head so that their eyes may meet.

"You forget, love, that I do have spells that can help me fight poison and heal injuries. You do not need to stress yourself about it so much."

Minthara shakes her head and squeezes on the half-elf's leg, "I can use a sword to strike down and protect you from marauders, assassins, cultists, even the gods themselves. But no sword will ever be able to strike down poison, and most certainly not one that has found its way in your blood stream. I speak with direct experience, your clerical magic will only help you against so much. The only reliable weapon you have is your own immune system, and it is the only weapon I can give you against a threat that is unseen and silent."

Shadowheart giggles, "Thank you for being concerned with my health. But I will be alright. You still have your mushrooms. You have a formula for those don't you?"

"Yes." Minthara throws her head to the back of the couch, calculating new recipes in her mind and rebalancing the ratios.

I have my fungi from the Underdark, as well as a few surface mushrooms. But the recipe I have been using accounted for the night orchid making up a decent percentage of the ratio. Perhaps, things are not as bad as I initially perceived them to be as the previous concoctions with the orchid were still at least mostly poisonous. They were just not as poisonous as they could have been. Eh heh, no wonder why our enemies did not fall as fast as I had expected when I would coat my blades with the toxin. Like flowers and plants, poisons themselves come in various strains. Perhaps I can look around and find a new mushroom or a new plant to fill in the space of the night orchid so that the new creations can still account for as many strains as possible. Of course I cannot expect to realistically create just one little potion that will protect against every single poison out there... ... can't I? I will need to speak with a few herbalists, gather as much knowledge and information as possible of surface plants. If I cannot make one, I can make multiple different toxins and -

"Hey, stop that." Shadowheart playfully taps her hand against the drow's cheek to pull back her attention. "You shutting off your ears and going into your head about dangerous things is how we got in this mess to begin with. I do appreciate the effort you put to keep us safe. But we will be fine. Your potions weren't completely useless so my magic should help me. I don't think someone is going to try to poison me any time soon. You have time to figure it out."

Minthara widens her eyes and looks at Shadowheart, "Oh, darling. There is no time." Minthara swings her arm to the back of the couch and pushes herself above the half-elf. She leans over into Shadowheart's personal space. "Someone will try to poison you, and they will do it soon."

Shadowheart places a hand on her chest, opening her mouth with a overly dramatic gasp. She leans backwards on the couch as the drow gets closer to her. "And who have I angered so much that they would dare to poison me?"

"Me!" Minthara growls, pouncing on her lover and pushing the half-elf completely against the couch. Shadowheart giggles as the drow kisses the side of her neck, hands pressing into her belly and tickling her. "You have made a grievous error in fooling me into thinking those damn flowers were toxic. I will show you real poison, one that would make even the Spider Queen quiver."

"Oh, please do show me..." Shadowheart mumbles as the two elves melt together with a kiss that may or may not be poisonous.

[messiahzzz]

the IGN article has already been addressed by several users, but imo the points of critique raised by others were still often misinterpreted, or ignored entirely.

— so i’d like to talk about it.

beforehand, it is important to mention that it remains everyone’s respective responsibility to curate their own online experience. you shouldn’t purposefully expose yourself to topics that cause you distress or trigger you. however, general discussion should always be valid and welcomed. you have every right to voice your opinion on the matter and to be upset about this. please don’t feel guilty about venting and expressing your emotional response.

we also need to differentiate this specific interview from the fandom’s overall treatment and interpretation of gale. several of the posts i’ve seen on the subject tend to derail into the latter, without addressing the valid points many have raised or glossing over them entirely. this isn’t about the usual “haha gale eats shoes” joke or whatever new meme fandom comes up with. this is solely about the developer’s treatment of gale, the character, and about a specific, internal bias that has been prevalent throughout the entirety of the game, as well as their social media. this particular interview merely adding to the amalgamation of points mentioned.

yes, it is certainly unrealistic to expect larian to address every single companion in detail and to touch on every nuance possible, in an interview that broadly focuses on the game’s narrative and gameplay. there are, however, specific character sections. each companion received a headline that was reflective of their overall character archetype or provided quick insight into their development.

Karlach: 'The Labrador of the Party'

Lae'zel: 'She's So Young'

Halsin: 'A Creative Risk'

Shadowheart: 'The Jason Bourne'

Wyll: 'We Lost a Little Bit of Narrative Room'

Astarion: 'Much of What He Does Is Out of Fear'

Minthara: 'It's Not a Redemption Arc...But She's Got a Lot of Love'

and last but not least:

Gale: 'The Guy Who Starts Off Annoying Everyone'

what followed was a brief discussion about their respective storylines, each being addressed with a certain level of respect, empathy, and consideration. except for gale. all that was mentioned in regard to his character was the narrative impact of gale’s suicide. talking about the overall logistics of this ending, the visuals of the cutscene, and how, to them, his sacrifice felt like the right ending and how in many ways, it is.

Chrystal Ding, Lead Writer: On a very human level, you have the guy who starts off annoying everyone, he's constantly asking you to give him your most treasured possessions to eat, otherwise he's in trouble, and at the end, he gives himself for the world. Sven Vincke, Founder: And he had the choice already once before where he wasn't ready for it. So it's a very powerful ending, and it comes in different permutations.

gale is the character who is initially annoying companions and players alike. he is verbose, enthusiastic and has a tendency to break out in long-winded rants. he repeatedly asks for your assistance, to help him manage his condition. to spare himself and his surroundings from an untimely, explosive death, he must consume items that you’ve carefully collected. gale is, essentially, a liability. a ticking time bomb. he already had the option to have his life be a meaningful sacrifice, but he wasn’t ready to die yet. now, that the party has reached the end, he has another chance to give himself up for the world.

short after, gale’s section of the interview quickly diverts into a more general discussion about the difficulties of playing as a wizard and other classes.

larian claiming that there is a universal “right ending” in a game with many branching paths and choices very much contradicts the definition of a role-playing game. where it is solely in the player’s hands to decide what direction to take and what outcome they deem to be the right one. moreover, it is important to remember that the interviewees weren’t just any developers, but consisted of two lead writers and larian’s founder himself. some of them industry veterans who are, to an extent, pr-trained. we all know that fandom often sees statements from developers synonymous with word of god. as such, the implications and impact are truly unfortunate.

if larian was referring the SA survivor and stated that “the right ending” for him was to return him to enslavement or to hand him over to the gur. that for all the death and misery he (involuntarily) assisted, his sacrifice would at least grand them a slither of justice.

astarion caused death, perpetuated racism, and now that you have handed him over to the gur hunter, he is offered a chance to give himself back to the world.

it is then deemed the right choice for him because it is the most narratively satisfying/impactful/powerful outcome in the context of the overall story. the majority of us would agree that such would be a rather tactless statement, no? not specifically for mentioning it in relation to astarion as a character or his influence on the narrative — he is fictional, after all, but because of the real-life implications and the very real stigma the affected face. we can't deny that it would be hurtful to irl victims. maybe we would even fault the writing altogether for such biases. after all, why should astarion be the only character whose redemption and healing are considered to be significantly less important in the grand scheme of things?

fiction functions as an abstraction and simulation of our social experience. we are supposed to get invested, to explore the meaning, examine the parallels, or maybe just to enjoy stories for the sole purpose of indulging in the occasional escapism. perhaps a way to temporarily forget about one’s limitations and the prejudices we face. in many ways, chronic pain/impairment, suicidal ideation, and autistic traits appear to be disorders & symptoms that are perhaps less relatable to some, and that they are maybe not as sympathetic to.

it truly would’ve been nice to see larian approach this interview with more professionalism. opting for a simple, diplomatic “actually, there is no right ending. the sheer variation in choices makes such a distinction impossible” would’ve more than sufficed.

this isn’t asking for larian to touch on every nuance possible, in an interview that largely resembled the flow of a regular conversation. it’s about asking for the same level of consideration and care that was granted to the rest of the companions. it’s about addressing gale’s particular brand of trauma with the same level of basic human decency. maybe we even could’ve received some new bits and pieces of insight on gale’s development, rather than the regurgitation of every shallow reddit/tiktok take we’ve seen up to this point. alas..

[not-so-lost-after-all]

Moments before the disaster

Astarion and Tav having supposedly the last chance to have some fun time together AKA the missing opportunity to go on a date.

Inspired this amazing piece by the talented @lirotation This is not your Amaara but I hope you don't mind ;)

Tagged: @spacebarbarianweird

***

His heart was lighter, she knew. It's been two tendays and something since he gloriously murdered Cazador, that prick who ruined his life, and they both were giddy. Amongst all the violence around, it was perhaps the only comforting thing, Esipre thought.

They both knew it's only question of time before he'll have to return to the shadows - if they survive at all - and they had an unspoken deal to make the most out of it.

They made love almost every night and sometimes it felt like her legs are shaped around his hips and her breasts were always sore. "He would make a fine consort if you're the type to be addicted to dick," Minthara raised her eyebrow and Esipre just shook her head and laughed.

She gave him her blood once, the most she could effort. As always it felt like falling into the cold water and then heatwave thanks to his touches. Her eyelids were already heavy when he kissed her and he tasted like smoke and brandy and the iron in her blood. She rolled her hips and sighed when he filled her up and then Astarion whispered something in elvish while brushing her chin and neck with his lips. Sometimes she woke up to him curled around her like a cat. One morning she watched the first rays of sun coming through the window and through the tip of his pointy ear before waking him up by kissing that ear.

The two of them were always the last to go to sleep and the first ones to get up, just shortly after sunrise.

But the time was almost up. Tomorrow or the day after that, she thought. Their merry band was well prepared and Esipre tried to keep their spirit high the best way she could. She was strangely calm about what they're about to do, she wasn't more sure about anything in her life.

When Astarion asked her about it, she shrugged. "Of course. But being afraid was never of any use to me. I'm done running."

"That's my girl," he grinned and nodded.

"Truth to be told, it was you who inspired me to not run away just because it's the easiest way."

He looked at her, bewildered. "Easy now, darling..."

Gods above, she loved all of him but it always made her heart flutter how precious he was whenever thrown out of his element.

"Anyway, this may be our last chance to have fun. Come with me?" Esipre smiled at him. She offered him her hand and Astarion immediately took it.

First thing first, she stole a bottle of red wine from a street vendor while laughing at his stupid jokes. Astarion was simply standing nearby, enjoying the show. "I could say I'm shocked about your criminal behaviour, you villain, but that would be a lie," her vampire rewarded her with a high pitched giggle. He stole two iron cups in a short few minutes...

The were walking along the waterfront and watched the last returning fishing boats.

They heard a scream from a dark alleyway and then a Sharran cultict running from that direction. She blasted him with a firebolt, then dramatically bowed like an illusionist when two temple guards were thanking her.

They were sitting in the shade of an apple tree in the park, with Astarion's head in her lap. The sun was already low in the sky, its light golden. They heard some female voices calling their kids for dinner. She wrinkled her nose as one of the buzzing bees briefly stopped in front of her. Esipre sipped a bit of the wine from the cup and laughed as Astarion was gossiping about Shadowheart. The moment was like the last day of summer, sweet and melancholic at the same time.

"What is it, darling?" Astarion noticed her unfocused eyes.

Esipre didn't want to ruin the mood but then decided to simply tell the truth. "I just wish to freeze this moment in time."

"I don't. I'm just happy there's something always changing in my life now, after two centuries of doing the same with the same outcome."

"And you can deal with anything, I'm aware of that." Astarion was the strongest person she knew but telling him that would make his ego the size of the moon. Though he wasn't so sure how well he's going to take the ending of his love affair with the sun because that surely won't come gently. But she left that unsaid.

Esipre caressed his collarbone with her finger. "You're still warm from the sun," she smiled.

There was a hint of something darker, painful in his ruby eyes but it almost instantly faded. Astarion then took her hand and kissed her wrist. "Just an illusion anyway. I can perform the same trick using't heat from the fire whenever you want to."

Esipre was a bit tipsy which always made her say things she would probably regret saying otherwise.

"Provided we'll survive. I... may not be some serial killer you can swoon over or a young girl who you'd have easier time to wrap around you finger..."

"Don't," he moved a finger across her jaw. "How many times do I need to tell you you're perfect everytime?"

She hapilly giggled. "...but I think we've still had a great time together. Just so you know." Becase you may not want to see me ever again if we survive tomorrow.

"Look," Esipre pointed at the last small part of the sun disappearing on the horizon with childlike wonder.

"I can only see you," Astarion continued watching her, now sitting next to her.

She turned to him, then they both closed their eyes. "Three. Two. One," she whispered to the last rays of the sun.

The kiss was teasing and playful and long like they have all the time in the world. "That choice was painful, you know that," he said when their foreheads touched. "It'll be even more. But for moments like this I wouldn't have it any other way."

[dirtybg3confessions]

Confession: I need Minthara carnally, it's not even a joke anymore. Her VOICE, her wicked personality, her jokes, her VOICE, her body, did I mention her VOICE??? Gods, please, I need her so much, I'm begging

[firstknightvulion]

Saw this joke and I immediately thought of Minthara.

Minthara: What are you doing later?

Tav: Nothing, why?

Minthara: Did you forget?!

Tav: *panicking* What? What was it?

Minthara: *grabs Tav by the chin and starts speaking in a low, dangerous voice* Me. You’re doing me. Don’t forget again.

[simpforminthy]

lil minthara x jokester reader somethin' somethin'

18+, nsfw-ish (doesn’t go all the way there but there be flirting)

inspired by a prompt that now i can't find :((( but one of the prompt quotes was "If you do not quit whining, the only thing killing you today will be my bare hands around your neck."

-----------------------

Despite the swampy heat and humidity that hung in the air, your skin felt like ice. You were wrapped up in your bedroll in your tent, shivering, every part of your body clenched like a fist.

You couldn’t remember how long you’d been there: all you knew is the sickness had come on in the morning, and the fever had reared its head as the sun started setting. By this time, it was fully dark. Your underwear was soaked through with sweat, your eyes shut as the battle inside your body waged on.

With the fever now reaching its pitch, your addled brain turned – as reliably as ever – to her. A kaleidoscope of Minthara crashed through your mind without warning: her lips, her tattoo-adorned neck, her muscular thighs. An expression of bemusement, begrudgingly directed at you after one of your silly jokes.

Despite herself, you could tell: she was entertained by your jokes. She maybe even liked some of them.

A grin played across your lips as you reveled in the memories, comforting to you in their familiarity – after all, you'd played them in your mind a hundred times over.

A dizzy spell hit you: images of Minthara were replaced with black and white spots as you came back into your ailing body. You groaned and dove deeper down into the bedroll, far enough that your head was fully submerged.

Suddenly you heard footsteps approaching your tent, even and sure. You barely registered the sound of the flap as it was brushed aside, but as the steps came to a stop next to your bedroll, you realized one of your companions must have entered your tent.

"Go on without me. Save yourselves," you croaked.

"Psh. Are you not yet better, human?" came Minthara's deep voice.

Your eyes snapped open. You peeked your head over the edges of the bedroll, eyes landing on the flesh and blood version of the woman who'd been dancing along your brain. Had you somehow summoned her?

She stood above you, arms crossed, eyes blazing as she considered you and your state.

"These may be my last words," you wheezed dramatically up at her. "I think I might be dying."

Minthara chuckled lowly. “You are acting as absurd as usual. It is but a small fever."

"Dying, I say," you whined. You were hungry for her attention, and you weren't above annoying her for it.

"If you do not quit whining, the only thing killing you today will be my bare hands around your neck.” She smirked at you.

You went to laugh, your body managing to summon the strength for just a few chuckles. You were starting to think Minthara had come to make sure you were okay.

It gave you the courage to be a little more cheeky than usual.

"Don't threaten me with a good time," you said, propping yourself up on your wrists.

Minthara cocked her head, a ghost of a smile playing across her lips. She put her hands on her hips.

Your body was starting to revolt, your muscles quivering as you held yourself up. Somehow you kept yourself upright, not taking your eyes off her.

“Perhaps when you are well, then,” she murmured, surveying you.

Your stomach lit up with heat at the tone of her voice, banishing some of the chill in your body. You grinned from ear to ear.

“I came to tell you that had better be soon.” Her eyebrows knitted together in that way you loved as she turned serious again. “With you currently indisposed, the wizard fancies himself our glorious leader. It is insufferable.”

With that, her eyes sweeping you up and down one last time, she turned on her heel and exited the tent. The flap swayed in the wind behind her.

Your heart thumping, you promptly collapsed back onto your stomach and slithered your way back beneath the covers. You eyes shut tight again as you curled back into fetal position, allowing the shivering to take over again.

Your mind went to pick up right where it left off, before the real thing had graced your presence. This time, you allowed yourself to fantasize more deeply: her long, delicate fingers caressing your neck, tracing your jawline. Her eyes glinting mischievously down at you.

You smiled through the sweat.

[wellthebardsdead]

Lucy used to be a dm for a group of her ‘friends’ back in the modern world and was very good at mimicking voices, after being turned into a devil this strength was amplified and as a bard/barbarian she uses it to her advantage a lot. Luring enemies over with a mimicked voice before knocking their lights out. But as a cruel joke/curse from Asmodeus, she can never use her real voice ever again.

Her new voice isn’t bad though, it’s a mix between Dolly Parton and Duchess from the Aristocats. For charming people it works excellently but for intimidation? Shes lucky Zhalk is on hand.

But for performing it’s been a boon as well, she had the Tieflings dancing holes in their boots at the grove party, lifted spirits at last light, and made Raphael realise he was in too deep when he overheard her singing Indilas Love Story in the gauntlet of Shar as she danced with Minthara, her voice echoing through every hall and into his soul.

But it also has its comedy uses.

Cue her scolding the owlbear with a goblin impression “Where are my socks are they in your mouth?! Spit them out right now!”

[moonselune]

Fainting in front of the BG3 ladies

Karlach:

You should have said no to the sparring session, but Karlach looked so excited to train with you and you hadn't been able to spend some quality time with her due to all of Baldur's gate needing something from you. So you agreed, you may have been running on three hours of sleep total for the past four days and you hadn't eaten since - who knows when? But you agreed.

You barely managed a jab in before you were conked out on dirt floor taking an involuntary nap. Karlach had caught you and thought perhaps you were just joking around with her.

"Okay soldier, if you wanted to tap out you could've just told me- Soldier? Babe!?"

Karlach shook you fervently and when you still didn't respond to her she called out to the rest of the camp as if you had just taken 10 arrows to the chest.

"My Gods- Halsin stop petting that rat and fucking help them!" She shouted and the druid flinched before nodding his head, abandoning his new friend and coming to Karlach's side, your form cradled in her arms.

"I believe they've just fainted-"

"-THEY"VE DIED HALSIN PLEASE SAVE THEM" Karlach shouted as she lay you down onto the nearest bedroll, disgruntling the resident vampire. Halsin quickly got to work, letting a warm glow emit from his hands as he assessed you.

"I just need to-"

"-HALSIN PLEASE-"

"-Karlach it will-"

"-I CAN"T LIVE WITHOUT THEM-"

"-Karlach please, just-"

"-I'M TOO YOUNG TO BE A WIDOW-"

"-You're not even married-"

"-HALSIN!-"

"What is going on?" You groggily spoke as Halsin helped you up, only for you to be pinned back down by an emotional tiefling.

Karlach's arms wrapped around you tightly, tears streaming down her face as she buried her head in your chest. "I thought I'd lost you," she whispered, her voice trembling. You could feel her heart pounding through her clothes. She was running hot - hotter than usual.

Halsin chuckled softly, patting Karlach on the shoulder. "They're fine, Karlach. Just exhausted, it seems our leader has been neglecting themselves in their endeavour to save us all."

With a mix of relief and embarrassment, you patted Karlach's back gently, kissing her cheek. "I'm okay, really. Just... need a bit of rest."

Karlach finally loosened her grip, her eyes red but filled with determination. "No more skipping meals and sleep, got it? I need you in one piece."

You nodded, smiling weakly. "Got it."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Minthara:

The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the camp. You had been trying to hide your exhaustion, the result of relentless nightmares that plagued your sleep night after night. You feared Minthara would see you as weak if she knew, so you kept your struggles to yourself.

Tonight, however, the lack of rest finally caught up with you. As you walked back to your tent after a long day, the world began to spin, and darkness crept in from the edges of your vision. Before you could call for help, your legs gave way, and you collapsed to the ground.

Minthara, who had been sharpening her blade nearby, noticed immediately. She was at your side in an instant, her eyes wide with alarm.

"Y/N!" she called out, her voice sharp with concern. She knelt beside you, her hands gently cradling your head. You slowly regained consciousness, your vision blurry as you looked up at her.

"Minthara," you murmured weakly, trying to sit up.

"Stay still," she commanded, her tone leaving no room for argument. She examined you carefully, her sharp eyes taking in every detail. "What happened?"

You hesitated, not wanting to reveal the truth, but the look in her eyes told you she would accept no evasions.

"I… I've been having nightmares," you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper. "I haven't been sleeping well."

Minthara's expression softened, though a flicker of frustration crossed her features. "Why didn't you tell me?" she asked, her voice gentler now. "Did you think I would see you as weak?"

You nodded, feeling a pang of guilt. "I didn't want to worry you. I thought I could handle it."

Minthara sighed, her fingers brushing a stray lock of hair from your face. "You are strong, my love, but even the strongest need help sometimes. I would never think less of you for struggling."

You looked up at her, relief flooding through you. "I'm sorry, Minthara. I should have told you."

She shook her head, a small smile playing at her lips. "It's alright. Just promise me you won't hide things like this from me again."

"I promise," you said, your voice filled with sincerity. Minthara helped you to your feet, her arm wrapped securely around your waist.

"Come," she said, guiding you back to your tent. "You need rest, and I will ensure you get it."

Inside the tent, Minthara helped you settle down, her touch surprisingly gentle. She sat beside you, her presence a comforting balm against the lingering fear from your nightmares.

"I will stay with you tonight," she said firmly. "And every night, if you need me."

You reached out, taking her hand in yours. "Thank you, Minthara. I feel safer with you here."

She squeezed your hand gently. "And you always will be. Now, rest. I will watch over you."

As you closed your eyes, the last thing you saw was Minthara's reassuring smile. Her presence beside you banished the shadows of your nightmares, and for the first time in weeks, you felt the promise of a peaceful sleep.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Lae'zel:

The aftermath of the battle was a chaotic flurry of movement and sound, but you had managed to keep your injury hidden from Lae'zel. You knew how she valued strength and feared her reaction if she knew you were hurt. You gritted your teeth and pressed on, hoping the pain would subside.

But as you walked towards the camp, your vision began to blur, and each step felt heavier than the last. You stumbled, clutching your side as a wave of dizziness washed over you. Before you could call out, your legs buckled, and you collapsed to the ground.

Lae'zel, always vigilant, was by your side in an instant. Her eyes widened with a mix of fury and concern as she knelt beside you.

"Y/N!" she barked, her voice filled with a rare edge of panic. "What happened?"

You struggled to focus, the pain in your side sharp and unrelenting. "I… I didn't want to worry you," you managed to say, your voice weak. "I got hurt in the battle."

Lae'zel's eyes flashed with anger, but her hands were gentle as she inspected your injury.

"You fool!" she hissed. "Why did you not tell me? Do you think hiding your pain makes you stronger?"

You winced, both from her words and the pain. "I thought you would think less of me," you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper.

Lae'zel's expression softened slightly, though her anger was still evident. "You are a warrior, Y/N, but even warriors can fall. Hiding your injury only makes things worse."

She carefully helped you sit up, her hands steady and sure. "Where does it hurt?" she demanded, her eyes scanning your body for the source of your pain.

You pointed to your side, where the wound throbbed painfully. Lae'zel's eyes narrowed as she examined it. "This needs to be treated immediately," she said, her voice firm. "You should have told me sooner."

"I'm sorry, Lae'zel," you said, feeling a wave of guilt. "I didn't want to be a burden."

Lae'zel shook her head, her expression a mix of exasperation and concern. "You are never a burden," she said, her voice surprisingly soft. "But you must trust me enough to share your pain."

She helped you to your feet, her arm wrapped securely around your waist to support you.

"Come," she said, guiding you back to the camp. "We will get this wound treated, and then we will talk about your foolishness."

As she helped you settle down, Lae'zel's demeanor was a mix of anger and tenderness. She fetched the healing supplies and began to tend to your wound with practiced efficiency.

"You need to be more careful," she scolded, though her touch was gentle. "I cannot protect you if you hide things from me."

"I understand," you said, wincing slightly as she applied a healing salve. "I won't hide anything from you again."

Lae'zel's eyes met yours, her gaze intense. "See that you don't," she said, her voice softening. "I care for you, Y/N. Do not make me worry needlessly."

You nodded, feeling a swell of gratitude and affection. "Thank you, Lae'zel. I won't let this happen again."

She finished bandaging your wound and sat back, her expression softening further.

"Rest now," she said, her voice firm but kind. "I will watch over you tonight."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Shadowheart:

The night air was cool and calm, but inside, your mind was anything but. The relentless night terrors had taken their toll, wearing you down night after night. You tried to push through the fatigue, not wanting to worry Shadowheart with your troubles. However, your body had reached its limit.

As you walked back to your tent, a sudden wave of dizziness overcame you. The world around you blurred, and before you could call out for help, your legs gave way, and you collapsed to the ground.

Shadowheart, who had been tending to a small fire nearby, noticed immediately. She rushed to your side, her eyes wide with alarm.

"Y/N!" she cried out, kneeling beside you. Her hands shook slightly as she checked your pulse and breathing, relief washing over her when she found both steady.

Even though you were unconscious, she couldn't help but scold you. "What were you thinking?" she muttered under her breath. "You should have told me if something was wrong. How could you be so reckless?"

When you finally came to, you found yourself lying on your bedroll inside your tent. Shadowheart was sitting beside you, her expression a mixture of worry and frustration.

"Y/N," she said, her voice stern but tinged with relief. "You're awake."

You managed a weak smile, trying to lighten the mood. "Hey, Shadowheart. You look worried. Did something happen?"

She didn't seem amused. "Don't you dare joke about this," she snapped, though her eyes were soft with concern. "You've been pushing yourself too hard, haven't you?"

You sighed, realizing there was no point in hiding it anymore. "I've been having night terrors," you admitted. "I didn't want to worry you."

Shadowheart's expression shifted to one of frustration. "You idiot," she said, her voice trembling. "Do you think I wouldn't want to know if you're suffering? Do you think I don't care?"

You reached out to touch her hand, trying to offer some comfort. "I'm sorry," you said softly. "I just didn't want to burden you."

Shadowheart shook her head, her eyes filling with tears. "You could never be a burden to me," she said, her voice cracking. "But seeing you like this… it hurts. You have to promise me you won't keep things from me again."

"I promise," you said sincerely, squeezing her hand. She sighed, wiping away a tear.

"Good," she said, her tone softening. "Now, rest. I'll stay with you tonight."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Jaheira:

The battle had been intense, and in the aftermath, you found yourself struggling to keep up with the others. You had sustained an injury but had hidden it from Jaheira, not wanting to bother her. However, the pain and exhaustion that were catching up with you had other ideas.

As you walked towards the camp, a sharp pain shot through your side, and the world around you started to spin. Before you could call out, your vision went black, and you collapsed to the ground. Jaheira, ever vigilant, noticed immediately. She rushed to your side, her eyes wide with alarm.

"Y/N!" she exclaimed, kneeling beside you. She quickly assessed your condition, her hands gentle but efficient.

"You're a fool," she muttered, though her voice was thick with worry. "Why didn't you tell me you were hurt?"

When you finally regained consciousness, you found yourself lying on a makeshift bed inside your tent. Jaheira was sitting beside you, her expression a mixture of relief and frustration.

"Y/N," she said, her voice firm. "What were you thinking?"

You managed a weak smile, trying to lighten the mood. "Hey, Jaheira. My dearest, darling love-"

She didn't seem amused by your attempts at seduction.

"Don't you dare try that," she snapped, though her eyes were soft with concern. "Not after this,"

You sighed, realizing there was no point in hiding it anymore. "I didn't want to worry you,"

Jaheira's expression shifted to one of frustration. "You damned fool," she said, her voice trembling. "Do you think I wouldn't want to know if you're hurt? Do you think I do not care?"

You reached out to touch her hand, trying to offer some comfort. "I'm sorry," you said softly. "I just didn't want to burden you."

Jaheira shook her head, her eyes filling with tears. "You could never be a burden to me," she said, her voice cracking. "But seeing you like this… it hurts. You have to promise me you won't keep things from me again."

"I promise," you said sincerely, squeezing her hand. Jaheira glared at you but raised her clasped hand to her lips and pressed a kiss to it. "I love you, Jaheira."

"I love you too, you may be a fool," Jaheria sighed, placing your clasped hands back to your side. "But at least you are my fool."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Another part of my silly series whilst I am away (wish me luck guys). Hope you enjoy it - Seluney xox

[galebrainrot2024]

Enemies to Lovers Part 34

Summary: Gale and Tav have a conversation where they rehash some childhood memories. Bullying ahead, be warned.

Part 33 | Master List | Ao3

“This is the final task,” Shadowheart whispered reverently, looking to her companions. The crew was haggard to say the least. Gale rolled his wrist and studied the bruising beginning to form across his fingers, a souvenir of a difficult battle. At least his eyes remained blissfully unscathed, unlike Astarion who donned a double black eye. 

While he understood the importance of the gauntlet to Shadowheart, he couldn’t help but feel irritated having to go about it all considering it got them no closer to their goal of destroying the Absolute for a Goddess that was, by most accounts, a lunatic. 

He would end up being wrong. Still, he was grateful it bought him more time to consider his options. 

Shadowheart stood before the Sharran statue, ready to receive her blood, for the Faith Step trial. 

“Lady Shar guide me,” she prayed before stepping into the darkness. 

They looked horrified as moments later she materialized beside them all, bruised and bloody, knocking on deaths door.

“By the Gods!” Tav sank to her knees to help. She was curled up on the ground, nursing her arms which were bloody. 

“A little help, please,” she managed, a half-joke as the seriousness of her injuries was not lost on them.

“Such a vengeful Goddess,” Minthara mused while laying her hands on Shadowheart, a radiant blue emerging from her fingers to swaddle Shadowheart in a healing balm. “There.” 

Shadowheart stood and brushed herself off. “I must try again. In darkness, there is truth.” 

*** 

Gale lost track of how many times she tried and failed. Others tried their hand stepping into the darkness, each requiring a scroll to bring them back from death. Gale remained firmly planted where he was. He would not risk death again, he had seen it enough, especially not for Shar.  

“We should head back,” Gale insisted, looking around at his weary companions, “before someone dies and cannot come back. Our abilities are nearly spent..” 

“I know,” Shadowheart spat and rubbed her temples. “I need to focus.” 

Perhaps you are not worthy. A voice echoed and Astarion huffed in response. 

“Or this is an impossible task,” he seethed, gingerly touching the blue skin below his eye. 

Karlach groaned as a deep grumble emerged from her stomach. She took an apple from her pack and bit into it, “I know this is important to you, but why can’t we come back tomorrow after we’ve freshened up…” 

“No.” She scowled, preparing to step into the darkness again.

“Hold on,” Tav said suddenly, staring at the floor. She grunted so loudly in frustration it startled them and then she began to laugh.“Unbelievable.” 

“What?” They said in unison, ready to be done with the venture. 

“If I don’t get my beauty sleep I might just get a bit malcontent,” Gale muttered, sitting on the floor to rest his eyes. His knees creaked as he lowered himself.

“It’s a map,” Tav traced the floor with her fingers as Shadowheart stood over her, nodding.

“A keen eye. Alright,” Shadowheart said, standing at the beginning of the precipice. “Guide me.” 

By the time they made camp Gale was in no mood to cook. His feet ached, the bruise on his hand ever darkening, and his head throbbed. He drank from his canteen, spilling half on himself as he did. He didn’t care. He was spent. 

As he cursed the wretched Gods for all they endured thus far, a voice drew him from his frustration. 

“Can I have a moment?” 

He turned on his heel, wiping his chin nervously as water dribbled down it. How unbecoming. 

“Absolutely,” his voice choked in his throat as he gestured Tav into the tent. “Please,” he offered a seat and she shook her head, holding up a hand.

“If it’s alright by you, I need to move, it helps me gather my thoughts.” She shut her eyes and he was transported to their youth. A twang of nostalgia bit him as he recalled her presentations, given the same way. Her eyes shut and she pacing, to keep her mind clear. 

He felt a smile pulling at his lips so he shook himself, gathering composure.

She opened her eyes to stare at him, her eyes holding every wonder in the world. The way the darkness illuminated them, how the fire danced within the endless depths. “I want to understand why.” 

“Don’t we all,” he joked and she glared, frowning at him. 

“I want to understand why you sabotaged me all those years ago.” 

“I told you…” he began but she cut him off.

“No, I want all of the details. I need to understand what you were thinking,” 

“I wasn’t thinking…”

“Clearly you were otherwise there wouldn’t have been a plan B!” She threw her arms up and cleared her throat, trying to calm her raised voice. “I just need to understand. Help me understand.”

The color drained from his face and he pinched the bridge of his nose, closing his eyes as he leaned forward to rest on his elbows. He clasped his hands together and looked up at her. He could hardly breathe. 

He had planned this conversation hundreds of times, thousands really, and he sat utterly speechless. “I need a moment.” He said while he stood and gripped his chin, the other hand draped across his waist. 

“How far back would you like me to go?” 

“From the beginning.” 

“The beginning? You’re sure?” 

“Everything. From the moment you decided ruining me was worth whatever acclaim that came next.” 

“I didn’t intend to ruin you…” 

“You did, though, didn’t you? Surely the man who thinks of all possible scenarios on what could go wrong when boiling a potato thought of every likely scenario in this case.”

His cheeks reddened. “Fair point.” And so, he told her. 

**** 

“I remember the first day I saw you on school grounds,” he whispered, chewing on his thumb, the sly smile turning the corner of his mouth. “You were so… bold. Bold in a very different way than I could ever hope to be. Within moments of your arrival you had the schools most prominent bully in tears, with frostbite to boot.” He laughed to himself. 

“How is that relevant?” She snapped, but Gale shot her raised brows.

“You said from the beginning, did you not?” She sighed and rolled her eyes while Gale held up a finger, “did you not?” 

Another sigh. “I did.” 

“Right. So, a cheeky girl arrives at this otherwise humdrum school and being the young lad I was I thought, ‘Gods I wonder what I could do to impress her,’” he glanced at Tav who’s flush rivaled a freshly blossomed rose. “I don’t know if you’ll recall this, but I tried to introduce myself to you that day.” Another glance, this time she was holding a hand over her mouth. “So you do remember, I wager?” 

He paused a moment, assessing her expression and let the silence hang until she said. “I do.” 

“I’d like to hear how you remember it.” He said, crossing his arms over his chest in challenge. 

She sighed and looked around the tent. Anywhere but meeting his gaze. “We were in the study… you came up behind me and tapped my shoulder. You introduced yourself and I…” she trailed off, meeting his gaze as if to implore him to help. 

“You…?” 

“I just shook my head and walked away.” 

“Right.” Gale said, vindicated. “I was thoroughly embarrassed as the rest of our classmates snickered, amused by your immediate rebuff. I still don’t know what I did to deserve such a callous response to a rather genuine attempt at friendship. You must know how few of our peers tolerated me as it was, this was merely another blow to an already fragile social standing.” 

“I… don’t know what to say.” She whispered, and reached her hand forward before recoiling it just as quickly. 

“So, I thought to myself, if we shan’t be friends I suppose we can settle for rivalry.” Gale looked at her, and rubbed his thumb across his lip. “I was desperate for your attention.” 

“Why?” She asked, though he was sure she knew the answer. 

“For someone so quick witted and intelligent, I am astounded I need to spell it out.” 

“I could say the same to you,” she shot back coldly. An impasses. 

“You recall our peers, I’m sure. You were one of the few whose talents and abilities could match my own. You conjured a memphit that first week at - what? - the ripe age of eleven? Most were barely able to recite a basic incantation for levitation. You were brilliant.” He paused a moment, before continuing softly. “You were maddeningly difficult, ever the contrarian. If I made a point, you never missed the opportunity to counter it.” She blushed again, looking away. “By all accounts, I was quite certain you despised me.” 

“I didn’t,” she tried to interject and he rose his brows. 

“Perhaps I can jog your memory then, yes? How about when we were fourteen, the week of our exams?” He let a puff of air through his nose as she rocked from foot to foot, uncomfortable. “We were assigned to the same group, if you recall, in our alchemy lab. Do you remember what we were required to accomplish?” 

“Craft an assortment of simple potions and elixirs.” Her voice was flat, the only other sound quiet rustling as the shadowed winds brushed through the tent. 

“One of those being a concoction to speak with animals.” His body roiled at the memory, one of the darkest childhood wounds he endured at the hands of his peers. At the hand of someone he was in love with. “Instead of crafting a potion of animal speaking, though, what was it that you and the rest of our comrades made and then had me drink in front of the class to demonstrate its effectiveness?” 

Although his stomach clenched seeing her squirm and color drain from her face, she wanted to understand everything. Having her examine one of the many roles she played was necessary to her comprehension. 

“Gale…” 

“Do you remember what it was?” He swallowed hard, staring at her icily.  

Tav met his gaze, her eyes softening. “A potion of polymorph.” 

“Right. A potion of polymorph.” He said blackly, “An impressive feat, by all accounts for students of our age in hindsight. Yet, as a young boy riddled with hormones and the desire to fit in with his peers, transforming into a pig did little for my self esteem or social standing.” 

“Please…” 

“Might I add, you then forced me to then eat from a trough you conjured… it was only when our professor intervened did you yield.” 

“Gale, I’m sorry…” 

“You must remember the names they called me,  how that followed me for the rest of our time there. I had few friends - acquaintances, really - as it was and you ensured I became a social pariah. You were so smug, so pleased with yourself you didn’t even care to think about how painful that experience would be for someone.” 

“I was a kid…” 

“So was I.” He retorted, the anger and disdain from the memory pooling in his gut. Tav sat backwards into the chair, unsteady and he stalked forward like a wolf, leaning over her and resting his hands on the arms of her chair. His voice was low and gravelly and he ignored the shape of her lips, how they curved and begged to be devoured. “I cannot explain how sorry I am that I made those choices. Do not think for a moment that you played no part in what I chose to do. We were both children. We were both foolish, stupid, and callous. We both made choices that deeply harmed the other. I just did so without your knowledge. You, on the other hand, made sure to do it on a regular countenance, publicly, and it was humiliating.” He stepped back and gestured towards his tent flap. “Now if you don’t mind, I would like to get some rest.” 

“Gale-“ 

“We can talk another day. Please, leave.” He looked away from her and waited for what felt an eternity before she stood, resting her hand on his shoulder for a moment before thinking better of it and left him to his thoughts. 

[rielzero]

Wizard Boyfriend Energy

I'm not super confident in writing Gale yet, so I usually don't have much ideas for him when writing those lil shitposts ahha. I am still proud of my sandwhich joke though.

If I haven't mentioned it enough before, I polyship with Gale since I like bloodweave a lot <_<

Gale is kind of like ''the boyfriend of the married couple'' energy, so he's much more chill compared to how he first is in regards to relationships. Of course- in all relationships jealousy and insecurities can happen, and its the best to talk about it and voice any concerns.

I do like to imagine a lot of silliness when it comes to this dynamic, especially if the married two are immortal vampires and the boyfriend is a human wizard pff.

Weird, silly headcanon- I think Minthara ships or at least looks to Loki and Astarion as an ''ideal power couple'' and then there's Gale.. And she's just annoyed whenever she sees them all three together.

Loki: *discussing some optics with restructuring some systems to handle controlling the public opinion better*

Astarion: *listening, suggesting laws that he could bring into play*

Minthara: Hmph. They're too pacifist with these ideas..

Gale: *just existing in the room, drinking tea and reading newspaper, not participating in the ongoing discussion*

Minthara: *speaking her thoughts out loud* It's the wizard's fault.. He's too soft.

Loki: *sarcastic* I'm not sure how you think Gale's ''softness'' is ruining the Parasocial relationships we are cultivating with the voting body, but I appreciate the ''input'', Minthara.

Gale: Excuse you! My softness is a treasured and desirable quality. I'm sure it could persuade anyone to vote favorably in the right situation. *sips his tea and pouts*

Astarion: Wizards have their charms, especially when they're not about to combust at any moment.

Astarion: ...All though, a little kamikaze on the horizon would surely convince anyone to sway to the right path. Huhu..

Gale: Oof, and here I thought I was going to explode from hurt feelings. It's lousy teasing doing the job instead.

Loki: I thought we talked about this, wizards have the tendency to explode, but .. To combust is a different story.

Minthara: I don't get it. Why else is he here?

Loki: A warm body in bed. Works wonders in the winter.

Astarion: Resourceful noise, when it's too quiet to focus. It makes all troubles of the outside world melt away.

Loki: Oh yes! The entire vocabulary that flows out of his mouth. I love hearing his voice as much as he loves speaking with it.

Gale: Thank you gentlemen, I've been complimented enough for today. I've got a classroom to entertain very soon. I'll excuse myself-

Loki: Don't forget to Implore on them to keep a safe distance at all times.

Gale: You know me so well. Safety first!

Minthara: At least he knows how to use fear as a tool properly...