#also astarion how are you cold you are literally a vampire

[sparemoon]

ok but i literally had to draw this though???

[rackartyg]

in therapy today i just talked about the dark urge and astarion and my therapist was elated about it. it was fantastic. “wow you’ve really been using this story and those characters to process things. that’s amazing!”

the era of being ashamed of my interests is over. it’s apparently Cool and Healthy to use fiction to cope. i wish i could tell fifteen year old me about this it would blow her mind

[fire-emblem-drabbles]

What Comes After

Pairing: Astarion x reader

Prompt: In which you couldn't convince Astarion not to become the Vampire ascendant, but still do not allow him to do the ritual.

Description: You really did fall so hard, and so, so fast. No wonder when the ground came to meet you did it hurt just as much. But perhaps its not too late to stand back up again, if someone was willing to lend a hand.

Rating: sfw

Content Warning: hurt/comfort

Word Count: 3018 3244

Notes: I had to save scum this so much on my file that was romancing him. And well I be thinking about him a lot lately... I literally have no idea where these words came from btw so I hope u enjoy them! Edited: 10/6/24 Fixed some spelling mistakes and grammar, added a lil more flavor and tried to make it all present tense lol also this has a title on ao3 now it does here too

“It’s over,” Said with such disdain, such pain and hurt, directed your way. “I’m done with this, and I’m done with you.” Venom, dripping and cold. What happened to the warmth in his eyes? To the love that once shown in them, when he looked your way? “I would say good luck out there, but honestly? I hope you die screaming.” He looked so broken, so hurt.

You hardly remembered what came next, beyond your own tears. Astarion simply… left. Walked away as you crumpled to the ground, in disbelief. As you begged him to say. When you told him, over and over again, that you loved him.

Karlach and Shadowheart must have dragged you out of those dungeons, otherwise you might still be there, wallowing in your pity. You don’t remember how long it had been since then. Since you had stopped Cazador from ascending, freed Astarion from his grasp… and tried to convince him not to ascend himself. Your words may have failed to reach him that day, but your actions didn’t. You severed the connection of your tadpoles, kept Astarion from seeing his scars. You would not be the one to allow such evils to be birthed, would not allow him to kill 7000 souls. You did not allow Astarion to become the vampire ascendant.

Astarion, hurt, broken, and lost, then choose to walk away from you and everything the two of you had built together over this adventure.

You hadn’t really been the same, since then. Where once you were the leader of your little ragtag group of adventurers, now you couldn’t find it in you to leave your tent. Well… Astarion’s tent, to be precise. You never had one of your own. And when the two of you got together, it just seemed natural to share.

Gale had taken over in leading everyone for day to day adventuring on your behalf. Even though you wished it, the world would not slow down because you were hurt. No kindness spared on your broken, broken heart. Yet you couldn’t stop wondering where you went wrong. Were the two of you not as close as you thought? Could you have been more convincing, hells, more intimidating, anything to have kept him by your side?

It must be night now. Your candles are all stuffed out, the bustle of the streets beyond are quiet, and you can’t hear the patter and stomps of Scratch and the owlbear cub playing around camp. Your tears have all but dried, even if your sorrow remains as fresh as a new wound. No, all is silent in this moment. You take a deep breath. Yes, it would be best to sleep. Maybe tomorrow, you would wake up and feel like a person again. One who could attend to all her duties. One who could save Baldur’s gate.

But sleep never comes for those whose hearts are so heavy. This isn’t the first night you’ve lied awake, thoughts wondering. All for the better, perhaps-- because in the heavy quiet of the cities dark night, you hear the flap of your tent open with the utmost quietness. And you, just as quiet, sit up from your laying position. Who ever has invaded your space must have dark vision, for they pause upon seeing your form and do not move an inch.

“I can see you there.” Your voice comes out, gravelly and rough. You don’t sense your in danger, though, even as your heart beats and pounds in your chest. Who would be stupid enough to steal from a camp full of adventurers, with an owlbear lurking around no less. Still, with some trepidation, you cast the cantrip for light, and watch as your messy tent (and new guest) are bathed in cool, blue light.

“Oh,” Is all you think to say. You can’t really trust your eyes, so you rub the days of built up sleep and sorrow from them. No, you can’t even speak his name as you stare upon him. But you dare not look away. Even if it was a dream, it was him. It was him.

“...You’re a mess.” His words are soft, quiet. He seems to relax a little when he sees you make no movement.

“...I suppose I am.” You clear your throat a little after speaking, if only because a new lump seems to be forming now that you look to him. “How… how can I help you, Astarion?”

“Gods…” He heaves a heavy sigh, looking over your pitiful form. “I’ve hurt you this much, and you still think to help me? Are you stupid?” He shakes his head in disbelief.

“Perhaps.” You nod softly. “Stupid enough to fall in love with you, after all.” You can only smile weakly at him.

“I came here too…” He frowns, looking away from you for a moment. He seems to reconsider what he was going to say, sighing and shaking his head before speaking again. “Well it doesn’t matter why I came back. You clearly need some sense knocked back into you.” With that, he moves in closer to you. Surprised, you move in a little in order to accommodate him. You try to ignore the beating of your heart, ignore the hope that rises within you like a phoenix from its ashes.

“What… are you going to do?” You turn to him, nestled into your side like he might have been not too long ago.

“Talk, as terrible as that sounds.” He keeps his gaze down, looking at the messed up bedding. What does he see, in this room that shows the layers of your sorrow?

“Talk?” You repeat. “I thought you… didn’t want to see me again.” You look to where he keeps his eyes trained. All you see is a monument of your regrets.

“Well, that was then. This is now.” Astarion looks to you. To the bags built up under your eyes. To your cheeks, still rosy and sensitive with just how many tears you’ve shed (for him, no less). Your hair is unkempt and as gross as you are, all he can see is someone that loves him. Its bracing, in an entirely disgusting way. After all-- he was the one that did this to you. “I… said and did some terrible things during that ritual. Things that… looking back, I may not have done were I in the right head space.” He swallows hard. “I was… scared. And the promise of power, the smell of blood… it was all so intoxicating, I forgot myself there for a moment.”

The two of you sit in the silence a moment, festering in it. Words dance on the tip of your tongue but Astarion isn’t done speaking. He, too, needs a moment to compose himself. “But… you never forgot who I was.” He looks to you, something soft, something sad, something gentle written into the contours of his face. Even as he turns to you, he struggles to meet your eyes-- shining, glimmering, with everything sweet and promising and loving in them. Something that he doesn’t deserve; not after the actions he took that day.

“You did everything in your power to convince me what I was doing was wrong, but all I could see then was the security that power could bring me.” He closes his eyes, taking a sharp intake of air though his nose. “I was so blinded, I could not see that with you by my side, I was the happiest I’ve ever been these past 200 years…” As he opens his eyes, he looks down to his folded hands, then over to yours before quickly looking away once again. You realize, with much sadness, that even now as he tries to burrow into your familiar warmth, he hesitates to reach out and touch you. Maybe he felt as if he wasn’t allowed to do so any more, or perhaps felt he was no longer worthy… Whatever the reason, it breaks your heart just a little bit more.

“I… see.” It’s a lot to soak up. That in the moment, you couldn’t reach him but in the days sense Astarion has realized maybe this was for the better. The thought hadn’t even occurred to you that he might consider that. That he might actually miss you too.

“You saved me from becoming the very man I lived in fear of, and all I gave you in return was heartbreak.” He seeks your eyes, his own wide and wet and you realize he’s crying now. Tears flood your eyes as well, because he was right; you cared for him so much, though, it almost didn’t seem to matter. Almost. “How can I ever expect you to forgive me?” With that, he breaks, closing his eyes roughly and crying out, sobbing into his own hands. It hurts just as much as when you watched him sob after killing Cazador.

Some how, you summon new tears to cry with him. Two, love sick idiots broken and hurt but not beyond mending-- not yet.

“It’s okay,” You find yourself struggling to say the words, even as you usher him into your arms and hold him. He does not hesitate to hold you in turn, to cry unto you as you into him. “We’ll be okay, I promise, I promise.” Your words come out as prayer as you hold him close. “Just don’t leave again, please!”

“I won’t, I won’t.” Astarion seems to compose himself more quickly than you do, but he does not let go, even as you know your tears stain his shirt. “I’ve got you and I won’t leave you ever again.” He rubs his hand along your back slowly, doing his best to try and comfort you in the same way you have for him in the past. It’s a long moment before you feel yourself begin to breathe normally again, before your tears once again dry and you find yourself staring into his red eyes once more.

“I love you,” Your words are softer than a whisper, said with a trembling smile.

“I love you too.” Astarion responds in kind, resting his forehead against yours. You two stay content a moment, settling into one anothers missed company before he speaks again. “But you’re disgusting-- let me take care of you.” He pulls away from you and your left no room to argue. You merely blink, owlishly, as he pulls back. He moves to stand but you grab his hand before he can get too far.

“Where are you going?” You hold on to him with both hands now, and he has to pause to take the sudden fear on your face. Astarion had planned to leave to return with a little wash bin and rag but seeing you so distraught makes him pause. The last time he left you, he didn’t come back… He can forgive your sudden clingyness, then, but not how you’ve let yourself go in his absence.

“We’re going to get you cleaned up.” With a bit of a struggle, Astarion gets you to rise to your feet next to him. “Don’t make it more difficult than it has to be.” He adds. You nod slowly, still a little on edge from the panic that just flooded your system but nonetheless, choosing to trust Astarion.

So, with the difficulty that comes with only having one hand, Astarion pins open the flaps of the tent (your light cantrip soon goes out as well, but the inside is illuminated but the torchlight of your camp). Some of the stale air you had been living in gets to escape, and you’re able to take a fresh breath of air you hadn’t realized you needed.

Astarion gathers his wash bin, and the rag, and with you in tow, rummages through that the travelers chest you seem to toss anything and everything into. But, avoiding unmatched boots and careful not to prick himself on all the arrows that are in there (and trying not to think about how they were likely dumped in there after he left), he finds what he was looking for-- some soap. And though the water is cold, and the night is cool, at least with a little bit of soap and his careful hand, it’s not all bad.

“You need to wash these clothes too,” Astarion huffs. “I know you have other things, so let’s get you into something cleaner.” You’re guided back into your shared tent (which is already starting to smell better, but the scented water is helping as well) while Astarion rifles though your clothing. Here together again, you finally let go of his hand but stay close to him.

“Thank you…” You pause, watching him pick out something comfortable and warm. “I can take care of myself, though.” You add, attempting to take the clothing from him.

“I’m sure you can-- but I want to take care of you.” He doesn’t let go of your clothing as you try and take it. “So, let me.” His gaze flicks up to your eyes and you’re surprised to see him look so stubborn.

“Oh,” You let go of the clothing, surprised. “I… That would be nice.” You say it quietly, still too caught up in him being here, being real and touching you, loving you.

“Now, out of the nasty clothing, if you would.” He persists, grabbing the hem of your current shirt. He pauses before lifting it though, looking to your face. “That is, if you’re okay with me…” he trails, unsure.

“It’s you, so it’s okay.” You assure him. You raise your hands so he can take off the offending, stinky shirt, and toss it aside. Next, he removes your pants, tossing them the same direction.

“This might be a little cold,” Astarion tells you, but it doesn’t stop the flinch (nor the shiver) as the cool rag touches your skin. Still, his touch is delicate and careful.

He first wipes your face (part of it, still covered in blood and dirt from that same battle). He dips and wrings out the rag, before continuing his work. Your chest, your arms, legs-- all of you, gently washed and cared for. You realize this is the first time he’s been so intimate with you in a non sexual way. It’s… nice. To see his brow furrowed in concentration, have his hands upon you just hold you. It’s not like the two of you went entirely without touching one another in that time, but to have him initiating it, warms you in a way you’ve needed since his departure.

“Now, back in your clothing before you catch a cold.” You nod at him and smile, sliding on the familiar pants and shirt with comfort and ease.

“I already feel a lot better, thank you.” He smiles softly, but sits you back down.

“Just let me attend to this rats nest, and we can be done.” Astarion reaches for his comb, and sits beside you. “Lean back so I can wet your hair, darling.” He guides you down, with your head over the basin, and cups his hand to gather water before wetting your hair.

You let him work quietly, until your hair is wet and he can begin working out the knots starting at the ends. When the comb runs freely through your hair, he grabs the soap and carefully massages it into your scalp, scratching here in there. You let out a sigh in content, and Astarion can’t help but smile softly.

He was still shocked that you even talked to him-- let alone let him touch you. But the two of you needed this. To hold and be held, to love and let go. He was a fool to ever think he could be without you. But he was lucky, then, that you were fool enough to let him back in.

With your hair washed, combed, and dried and the water dumped and wash bin put aside, Astarion lets you sit back up and look at him. “So… what happens next?” You ask softly.

“Well… I’m not sure.” He admits. “I didn’t think you would forgive me so… I hadn’t really thought much beyond that.”

“I suppose we get our rest, then.” You heave a heavy sigh. “I know I’ve taken enough time off from adventuring… And you have some friends who deserve an explanation as well.”

“More talking?” Astarion groans softly, but makes no move to leave your side as you lie down and tug him with you. “But… you are right.”

“You’ll be okay.” You give him a good, full body squeeze. “Everyone here cares for you. They’ll be willing to hear you out.”

“Perhaps only with you by my side.” He lets out a little chuckle. “But… that’s not such a bad thing.” He readjusts in your grasp, snuggling close and turning towards you. “Rest well, darling.” He kisses the top of your head, and smiles down at your sleepy expression.

“I will, now that you’re here…” It didn’t take long for sleep to find you, wound up in Astarion’s arms. You hadn’t slept so well in days, and who was he to wake you when you looked so peaceful…? It seemed like time passed so quickly with you in his arms, and before long he could hear the sounds of everyone else waking in camp.

Astarion couldn’t help but grow anxious as footsteps grew closer to the tent. “Solider, you in there?” Karlach’s voice called out. “I know you haven’t been very hungry lately, but I brought you some breakfast…” Unable to do anything to stop her, Astarion watches, helpless, as Karlach pokes her head into the tent. In the bright morning light that pours in with her, all he can do is look at her with wide eyes as her mouth begins to open. Acting fast, Astarion speaks before she does.

“Shh, just let them sleep a while longer…” Astarion turns from Karlach, brushing some stray hairs from your face. “When they’re ready to wake up, I’ll… I’ll be ready to.” He turns from you, back to Karlach, a look of surprise and glee on her face.

“Right! Right… I’ll be quiet!” She gives him a little thumbs up and quickly retreats from the tent. But… Astarion can hear Karlach, even if she is all the way across camp. First, she tells Jaheira, then Minsc, and Minthara and Lae’zel overhear… Then Wyll, Shadowheart and Halsin of course overhear and then Gale finds out, and now the whole camp is aware that he’s back here even if they are being remarkably polite about it….

Still, it brings a smile on his face. To know they were so excited to see him again (maybe even if it was only to see you happy again) was a comforting thought. To be among friends… That was something truly special indeed.

“Astarion…?” You wake slowly, eyes barely open as you look to him, hold him a little tighter.

“I’m here,” Astarion assures you, giving you a squeeze in return.

“Good…” You close your eyes and cuddle back into him, letting out a small yawn. “Let’s stay alone for just a little longer yet.”

“That can be arranged.” He can’t help but smile, and relax into you. Everyone else could wait a little longer yet-- you deserved what ever you wanted in this moment. And if that happened to be him, well, Astarion was in no place to say no.

[powdermelonkeg]

just saw ur gale/mystra analysis post. im new to the game and dnd lore and honestly… ur take on their relationship feels like the most natural/compelling one??? esp since its all too easy to simplify topics that have many facets and nuance….

thanks for sharing i love analysis and reading people’s takes on narratives : D

My pleasure! (Bee from the future here: congrats, you spawned another meta!)

I love complicated characters, WAY more than I like a clear cut-and-dry case. Flaws, to me, are what make a character compelling and lead to interesting stories about them with choices that can get them into situations. I'm both writing a fanfic and running a campaign where I'm playing as Gale, and in the interest of portraying him properly and in-character, I've gone into SUCH a deep dive into all the decisions and facts that make him him.

It helps to, y'know, also be in love with the fictional wizard, but I digress

The thing about Baldur's Gate 3 is that no character in there is perfect. I've seen a couple analyses about the theme of continuing cycles of abuse vs breaking out of them, but in my mind, in terms of the characters themselves, it goes like this:

The origin characters have just come out of the lowest situation of their lives (Lae'zel being the exception; being tadpoled is a gith's worst nightmare. You're seeing that lowest situation in real time).

Not the lowest point, mind. Gale's lowest was probably the day after he got the Orb. Wyll's was probably the day his father cast him out. Karlach's was the day she lost her heart. But the lowest, accepted normal for them is what they've just left.

They're then thrown out of their depth and forced to rely on you to live. That's #1 priority: living. We get the extremes of these characters before we get their nuances, because they're quite literally at their breaking points.

Then once we get to know them, we see their wants, their hopes, their fears, as they open up to us. Every companion's story is at their own pace, but they all have a moment where they ping-pong between despondency and desire. Sometimes that desire is what we know isn't good for them, like Shadowheart wanting to be a Dark Justiciar. Sometimes that despondency is only for a flicker, like Astarion's realization that he's condemned 7000 people to a half-life of tortured spawnhood for as long as he's been a vampire.

Romance lets us crack all that open more, because if you pursue a romantic partner, they see you as their closest confidant. They WANT to trust you, so they're more willing to explain how they see the world and what decisions they want to chase.

And then their endings. Those often get simplified as good/bad, continuing the cycle vs breaking away from it. But how is Duke Wyll on the same platform as Ascended Astarion? He's not evil, he's not even entirely unhappy. He might even have broken out of his abusive cycle with Mizora, if you played your cards right. And Ascended Astarion is overjoyed, even if he is remarkably more cold.

I think that the endings are less a dichotomy of "this is good for them" vs "this is bad for them," and more one of "bringing out their best traits" vs "bringing out their worst."

Wyll's worst trait is being willing to sacrifice his own wants for whatever people desire of him. His best is standing for what he believes in and ensuring people are safe. Duke Wyll leans into that necessity to turn the other cheek in the name of people who count on him, while the Blade of Avernus has seized that moral compass of his and forged it out of mithral.

Shadowheart's worst trait is blind obedience at the cost of her individuality, while her best is her desire to be kind to things that don't deserve to be hurt. Mother Superior Shadowheart's whole life is defined by Shar. Selûnite Shadowheart's life is defined by her hospitality, especially towards animals.

Karlach's worst trait is how willing she is to accept that things are (to quote her) fucked, letting despair override hope. Her best is her durability in the face of horror. Exploded Karlach would rather die than try to work out a solution in the Hells, because she's terrified of facing Zariel alone. Mindflayer Karlach has accepted her fate and decides to give up her heart and soul to go out a hero, losing who she is. Fury of Avernus Karlach is willing to keep fighting for a solution, and by the time the epilogue happens, she's got her sights set on one.

Astarion's worst trait is his desire for power over people. His best trait is using the tools he has to his advantage. Ascended Astarion has let his powerhungry nature and paranoia lead all of his decisions, with his sights set on dominating mankind. Spawn Astarion has embraced what he is, and carved out a life for himself where he can do as he pleases.

Lae'zel's worst trait is her blind fanaticism, while her best trait is her individual dedication, making her loyalty a marriage of the two. Ascended Lae'zel is a meal for the lich queen, turning a blind eye to all Vlaakith's tried to do to her and literally being consumed by her fervor. Champion of Orpheus Lae'zel has turned her loyalty into something productive for diplomacy. Faerûnian Lae'zel has seized her individuality by the throat and decided her own future.

And then Gale. Gale's worst traits are his hubris and, paradoxically, his low self worth. His best traits are his creativity and wonder for the world. God Gale is the embodiment of ambition, having burned away all but that in pursuit of perfection. Exploded Gale has let his remorse blot out all hope for a redemption in which he does not die, because he thinks he's earned it. Professor Gale leads his life by embracing the school of Illusion and letting his creativity thrive, teaching others to do the same. House Husband Gale has multiple creative projects he's working on, and Adventurer Gale is always finding new sights to see and wanting to share them with you.

There are arguments to be made on which ending the origins are happiest in, certainly, or which one benefits them the most, but each ending represents the extreme of a facet they possess.

So with all that, there's a sort of malleable method to figuring out the ins and outs of a character.

You take their endings—all of them, all variables they can have—and reverse-engineer the flaws and details they carry. Then you start to notice how those work into their approvals for minor things: Astarion approving of your taking of the Blood of Lathander, or Shadowheart approving of standing up for Arabella. Getting a list of approvals and disapprovals is helpful, but having those endings on hand tells you why they react like that to a majority of their decisions.

You take their romance-route explanations of how they act, and apply those to earlier decisions. Astarion's confession to manipulating you and Araj-prompted admittance to using himself as a tool brings to light how he reacts to your decisions, regardless of his actual opinions on them. Wyll's fairytale romance and love of poetic adages speaks to his idealistic nature, and why he takes a sometimes-blinded approach to decisions in which the "right" answer isn't always the smart one.

You take their beginning reactions to stress and use that to measure how future decisions impact them. Lae'zel locks down and gets snappy when she's scared, while Gale immediately turns to diplomacy. Shadowheart has gallows humor, while Wyll turns to quiet acceptance. If they break from these and seem even worse, you know the situation is more dire in their minds than having seven days to live.

And then you factor in all their fun facts and dialogue choices and backstories.

A wizard falls in love with a goddess and her magic, attempts to retrieve a piece of her power for her, is scorned for his attempt and is cursed to die.

Give that backstory to a Tav. Look at how it changes.

A chaotic good wizard fell in love with a goddess, thought retrieving a piece of power for her would be a showy bouquet of love, and was punished for not thinking things through.

A lawful evil wizard fell in love with a goddess's power, snatched the most precious thing she owned, tried to use it to barter his way through to the secrets she kept, and was given a swift retribution.

Same backstory. Same class, same act, same goddess. Wildly different connotations. Wildly different conclusions as to who is in the wrong.

If you take all there is to Gale, all that the game shows us makes up his character, and apply it to this backstory, you get what really happened:

A wizard, enamored with magic, fell in love with a goddess. His desires led him to want more than she was willing to give. In his well-buried fear of inadequacy, he concluded that the reason she wouldn't indulge his ambitions was because he just hadn't proven himself worthy enough. So he tried to prove himself, but he lacked the context for what he was proving himself with. And the goddess, seeing a weapon that had killed her predecessor, saw this ambitious wizard as losing his way and coming for her just like the weapon's creator had. She was angry, she withdrew his link to her, and he didn't know why. So he drew the conclusion that she took his powers to punish him, and let that encompass his fall from grace.

Was he wrong to reach for what was out there?

If you knew that the answers to everything you cared about were not only known, but kept by someone you loved—someone who adored you—what would you do to ask to see them? What if your curiosities were if there were other planets with life out there, or how dark matter worked, or whether or not we could one day travel in the stars? What if it was the potential cure to an illness that's little-understood, or the way to make a program you dreamt up, or the scope of the true limits of your artistic talents? Would your answer change?

Was she wrong to cut him off?

If you were once hurt, and the person you loved—the person who adored you—brought the thing that caused it to your door, believing you'd want it, how would you react to seeing it? What if that thing was someone you thought you'd broken contact with, like a friend or family member you'd been trying to avoid? Would your answer change?

That's the sort of scope that needs to be applied to this, on both sides. You have to take the perspectives of each party, and apply two analogies instead of one.

Gale saw the vastness of the universe, untold wonders, the solution to every question he could ever dream up, and saw Mystra as withholding this from him because she thought he just wasn't worthy enough. To claim Mystra knew his perspective does her a disservice.

Mystra saw a cruel weapon she thought long gone, in the hands of someone who could use it, brought right to her, and thought Gale was willingly following the path of Karsus. To claim Gale knew her perspective does him a disservice.

Should Gale have researched his prize more, so he knew just what he was obtaining? Should he have kept his hands off a cursed book that would devour him? Of course he should have.

Should he have given up on chasing his dreams?

Should Mystra have understood that Gale's pursuit of power was nothing like Karsus'? Should she have communicated when she was angry instead of giving the cold shoulder? Of course she should have.

Should she have given him the benefit of the doubt?

That's the root of their falling out. That's what leads to hurt being inflicted. Understandable, human reactions to the situations they perceive. Unhealthy, unwise choices made afterwards.

You work backwards from this to figure out their dynamic as Chosen and goddess. You work forward from this to understand more of where Gale and Mystra are during the events of Baldur's Gate 3. Gale reached too high, and understands this. His goddess hates him, and he regrets this. Mystra isolated Gale, and understands this. Her Chosen wants redemption, and she wants to make it happen.

Just like we took Gale's character into account, we also have to take Mystra's.

A goddess is faced with a problem. She uses someone who's desperate for approval to solve it, by telling him to kill himself.

An evil goddess is faced with a threat to her reign. She sees someone who's unfailingly loyal and hates himself, and elects to have him tear himself apart rather than do anything about it.

A good goddess is terrified of the future. She sees someone who tried to hurt her, who's going to die anyways, and tells him to use it to save the world.

Same story. Same act, same power, same pawn. Different character. Different perspective. Different outlook on whether or not this is the right thing to do.

Mystra has died, multiple times, to people trying to stake claim to her domain. Someone appears with the very thing that could do it again, right as she's regained her stability.

She does not see mortals the way mortals do. She is timeless. She is eternal. She has a duty to protect billions of people, and one person lost to protect that number is more than worth the sacrifice.

People like to bring up the Seven Sisters as proof of Mystra's cruelty. For those unaware, Mystra asked permission to, then possessed, a woman, used her to court a man (with dubious consent from the woman), and bore seven children, all of whom were capable of bearing Mystra's power as Chosen without dying. The woman she possessed was killed in the process (reduced to no more than a husk, then slain by her now-husband, hoping to end her suffering), and the husband was horrified by the whole story.

Mystra needed Chosen in order to restore herself in the event that she was killed again, to prevent magic as a whole from collapsing and wreaking havoc on the mortal realm, like it had in the few seconds Mystryl had been dead. Elminster, Khelben Blackstaff, and the Seven Sisters contributed to this. The more Chosen she has, the better; what happens if Elminster dies? She can't afford to have all her eggs in one basket.

Mystra has Volo (yeah, that Volo) as a Weave Anchor, imparted with a portion of her power to prevent the Weave from shredding itself to pieces in her absence. All Chosen of Mystra are Weave Anchors by nature. The creation of Weave Anchors was mandated by Ao, the Overgod, and Chosen are the best way to make sure those anchors aren't drained by ambitious people hoping for godlike power. Chosen can, and will, defend themselves, unlike static locations (which Mystra also has). The anchors are why the Weave wasn't completely obliterated during Mystra's last death, when the Spellplague rose up, because they stabilized the Weave around them.

Everything Mystra does is in the name of the big picture, to prevent a catastrophe like the fall of Netheril from happening again. Her restriction of magic, her numerous Chosen, her creation of Weave Anchors, her destruction of those who would claim her power, it's all in the name of the stability she's been charged with. Dornal Silverhand's grief and Elué Silverhand's death, while regrettable, were worth it to bring seven more anchors into existence to save all of the Material.

So someone appears with the Crown of Karsus, potentially powerful enough to try to kill the other gods in the name of the Dead Three. She can't risk being a target of them. She can't risk the destruction of magic again.

Gale is going to die. He lives in fear. He begs for forgiveness.

In Mystra's eyes, she's offering him the best outcome. She'll let him die in service to her, to save Faerûn, and she'll forgive him. He's going to die anyways, and if he does this, she'll give him everything (she thinks) he could ever want in her realm. She's asking him to do what (she thinks) is the right thing.

"She would consider what she considers to be forgiveness."

Notably, she leaves the decision in his hands. She doesn't have Elminster lead him to the Nether Brain. She doesn't activate him as soon as he's there. When he lives yet, she doesn't revoke the charm that keeps him stable. And when he declines, when he lets it go and starts pursuing Karsus' path, she doesn't smite him on the spot.

She is (she thinks) being incredibly patient. If Gale is going to try to be Karsus II, she's ready for him. If he decides to walk off and keep the Orb, he's dug his own grave in the Fugue Plane (those who don't have a god to claim them roam endlessly as husks and form a wall of bodies around the City of Judgement).

From her perspective, she's not being unreasonable. But from the perspective of a mortal, she absolutely is.

"Now, I have a question for thee: what is the worth of a single mortal's life?"

This is a question she cannot answer properly.

I think a lot of characterization is lost whenever someone paints one of them as being totally in the right. But I also think you have to be invested in them as characters to want to see that characterization. If you want to write about Mystra, you have to try to get into her head, analyze the decisions she made, figure out why she thinks she was right, and follow the pattern.

Gale's sacrifice is a very predictable thing for her to ask for.

[talesofesther]

under the sunlight

Summary: After 200 years of darkness, Astarion feels the sun on his skin again.

A/N: It's been quite a long while since I've enjoyed a game the way I'm enjoying BG3, a feeling I've missed all too much. And of course, this pretty, charming boy has secured his place in my heart fairly quickly. I love him, he deserves all the warmth and softness in the world. And this is a moment I've been wanting to visualize for a while. So, here's a small drabble about Astarion's first time back in the sunlight.

Requests for Astarion are open, if anyone wants more of him here. <3

Masterlist

The world around him smelled like smoke and burnt flesh, the air stung as it ghosted over his dry lips. Dust and remains of rubble clung to his skin, his body felt heavy and sore all over. Each movement more painful than the last, for seconds that felt like hours.

The pale elf didn't know how it happened, all he knew was that the mind flayer ship he had been trapped in had started to fall, and fall, and fall; until it crashed, and he crashed with it. He also had no idea how he had survived, but he wasn't about to complain.

A deep groan escaped Astarion as he steadily regained consciousness. He kept his eyes clenched shut, a headache pounding his head and making him wince.

He scratched the dirt and grass beneath him, grounding himself. His muscles complained as he slowly started to push himself up, and as he tried opening his eyes, a hiss fell past his lips and he blinked several times. Squinting, he tried to adjust his sight to the bright sunlight.

He stilled. Hand frozen midair as he was about to shake the dust off his hair.

Sunlight.

Moving faster than he probably should, given his state, the vampire crawled backward until his back hit the trunk of a tree. His skin only partially hidden from the warm glow.

He tucked his knees closer to his chest, eyes wide as he watched the soft slivers of sunlight that sneaked between the leaves dance on the tip of his fingers. With a trembling hand, he gingerly curled a finger around one strip of sunlight, as if the light would bend its rules for him to hold it.

Sharp fangs dug into his lower lip, scratching and drawing a drop of his own blood. There was a tightness in his chest, clawing at his throat; whether it was fear or hope he didn't know. Maybe a bit of both.

A soft breeze flew by, carrying away the stench of smoke and bringing a distinct perfume, no doubt from the berry bushes nearby. The skies cleared, welcoming, beckoning him under.

With his palm up, Astarion eyed the stripe of sunlight resting on his hand. The soft glow had a gentle warmth to it, kissing his pale skin ever so tenderly. It was enough to blur his sight, tears brimming on the bottom lid of his eyes.

Could it be?

Wobbling in his stance, feet unsteady, Astarion pushed himself up. He took one, and then two steps forward—resembling a wild cat walking into a cozy home, after sleeping countless nights out in cold streets.

When the warm light of the sun embraced him—without pain, without burning—a quiet whimper fell past his lips, and Astarion closed his eyes. He angled his chin up to the sky, pleading for the sun's attention. For it to kiss his cheeks and dry the drops of blood on his clothes. For it to shine on his silver hair and warm up his cold skin.

He blinked his eyes open, lower lip trembling when his sight was temporarily blinded by the light. He looked around him, to the bright greenery and the blue skies and the mountains far away.

It was so warm. After 200 years of cold nights. He felt so warm.

Tears fell down pale cheeks, glimmering, under the sunlight.

⋆* ☾ ⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ

Thank you for reading this little story. Feedback and reblogs are literally what keeps me motivated to continue posting here, so I’d appreciate it if you could take some time to reblog and comment. <3

You do not have permission to repost, copy, or translate my works on any platforms (even with credit), please respect.

Astarion’s taglist: @milkiane @v1ci0us

[sm0lprism]

Bite-Sized (10) - A G/t BG3 fanfic

This contains g/t (giant/tiny content) so if that isn't your thing, then I suggest you stop reading. Thank you!

Read on ao3

Chapter 1 | Previous chapter | Next chapter

Series master list

Summary: Ria awaits her impending fate inside Astarion's mouth. Will this be the end for her or will Astarion surprise her?

Pairing: Astarion x f!borrower!oc (Tav/oc) (slow-burn)

Warnings: MOUTHPLAY WARNING!!! If you are uncomfortable with mouthplay or vore-ish themes, then DO NOT read this chapter! No actual vore occurs but mouthplay is VERY prominent and makes up the majority of this chapter. Swearing/course language.

Word count: 2.5k

EDIT: shoutout to my good friend @smolgloves for coming up with one of the ideas for this chapter!! (you know which one hehe)

It took every fibre in her being not to scream as Astarion’s lips passed over her body, pulling her inside his open maw. Before her eyes could adjust to the change in lighting, she was suddenly pressed to the roof of his mouth as he took a loud gulp and swallowed the remaining beer from his cup. She remained motionless as the giant fleshy muscle held her in place, all she could do was watch in terror as the liquid disappeared down his cavernous throat in a matter of seconds. All it would take was one swallow, and she would disappear down his gullet too.

His tongue suddenly relaxed, the beer now gone down his throat, and she found herself lying on the expanse of his wet, warm tongue. The scent of beer was heavy in the air, but it chilled her to the bone when she could also smell the metallic scent of blood hanging evidently in his mouth too. Tears burned her eyes and she stifled a sob. Her breathing came out in raspy gasps as dread hooked its claws into her once more as she attempted to process what was happening.

Gods, is he going to eat me?! Will I die like this?

Her mind immediately flickered back to when she had first met Astarion, how he had been so intent on eating her, how he had tasted her blood, running his tongue over her arms, and held her squirming in his cold fist like she was nothing but a mere piece of meat ready to be eaten. Fear clung fiercely to her heart and it quickly spread to the rest of her body like wildfire, smothering any other rational thought that was left in her brain. How could she sit idly, inside a vampire’s mouth, and not do anything? If she didn’t do something right now, she could be taking a trip down his throat very soon. She refused to wait around to see what would happen if she chose to remain idle.

My dagger.

As soon as the thought struck her brain, she hastily reached for her tiny dagger that Dammon had so carefully crafted and gripped it firmly in her trembling fist. Without a second thought, Ria drove her dagger into the flesh of his tongue and began stabbing the muscle multiple times as pure adrenaline clutched onto her hungrily with a vice-like grip. No sensible thoughts crossed her mind as she stabbed relentlessly, all she could think about was how much she didn’t want to go down Astarion’s throat and into his waiting stomach.

“Let me out!” she shrieked at the top of her lungs, blood from his tongue now splattering over her clothes as she continued to stab the wet surface, tears streaming down her face. “I haven’t come this far to be eaten by the likes of you!”

The fleshy surface beneath her suddenly tensed before pinning her to his palate once more, an audible grunt resonating loudly from the back of his throat. In the confusion of the moment, the dagger slipped out of her grasp and clanged against his large molars before falling and wedging itself between some of his pristine teeth that were dangerously close to the back of his throat. All she could do was watch in stunned silence, aside from the gurgling noises coming from the back of his throat, as her only means of defense was completely out of her reach.

Shit. Shit. SHIT!

Now she was quite literally at his mercy.

Perhaps stabbing his tongue so persistently wasn’t a good idea after all.

Sealing her eyes shut, she waited for the dreaded moment where he would swallow. Surely after her outburst of frequent stabbing, he would be done with her and gulp her down with no hesitation. Her body trembled as more sobs racked through her core violently as she waited for the end. But moments passed, and she was still pinned to the roof of his mouth as his tongue firmly held her in place.

What is happening?

Opening her eyes, her gaze scanned her surroundings and she was soon greeted with a formidable wall of teeth. She shuddered as her eyes fell on his fangs, so large that they could impale her entire body if he so pleased. Those same fangs had almost ended her life only a few weeks ago, and now she was face to face with them once more inside the vampire’s mouth. Chills snaked down her spine, suppressing another shiver, as she recalled those memories yet again of that fateful night. However, this time was different to when she had first met him – she was alive and inside the vampire’s mouth now, and surprisingly not halfway down to his stomach.

Why hasn’t he eaten me yet?

She wriggled around against his soft tongue, wondering if he was simply tasting her before the inevitable happened. Surely if he was going to eat her, he would’ve done so by now – right? His tongue barely moved, cradling her delicately against his palate, and it showed no signs in flicking her body down his throat. All she could do was wait painfully to see what he would do. Her heart pounded relentlessly against her ribcage, threatening to burst right out of her chest, her stomach dropping like a stone. If Astarion didn’t end her soon, the sheer suspense of the moment would.

After what felt like days, his tongue slowly relaxed and lowered her down until she was resting on the bottom of his mouth again. She didn’t dare move a muscle as she quivered on top of his tongue. Seconds turned to minutes, but still nothing happened. His tongue was surprisingly still as well, holding her as if she was as fragile as glass. While she sat in the vampire’s mouth, her overwhelming fear started to slowly dwindle. Her body was still frozen in place, refusing to move, worried that if she attempted to move again, he would squash her to the roof of his mouth, or even worse, swallow her whole. While she laid on his tongue, the only noises she could hear was the bubbling noise at the back of his throat. It certainly unnerved her listening to his bodily functions, a constant reminder of where she could easily end up if Astarion willed it.

Saliva coated her entire body, drenching all her clothes until they were a sodden mess. She sniffled as she realised that if she survived this, her clothes were completely and utterly ruined. There was no way she could walk out of this with any dignity left to her name, if she managed to get out of this at all. At least it was…pleasantly warm inside his mouth. It shocked her that while Astarion himself was icy cold to the touch, his mouth was surprisingly cosy. It pained her that the thought even crossed her mind, but the warmth that radiated from his mouth could only be described as such. Perhaps there was hope for her yet. She recalled Astarion winking at her moments before he slipped her inside his mouth, and how he had looked almost apologetic. Maybe she would be fine after all. And maybe stabbing his tongue had been incredibly stupid of her, but in her defense, after everything that she had been through, stabbing him was a perfectly reasonable reaction to the situation. Or at least that’s what she would keep on telling herself.

Pools of saliva had now started to gather around his tongue, steadily increasing by each passing second. A small yelp escaped past her lips as the fleshy muscle suddenly pinned her against his teeth, his throat releasing a very loud swallowing sound as the gathering pools of saliva vanished down his throat in a matter of seconds. Panic fluttered in her chest like a swarm of butterflies as she watched the liquid disappear so quickly down his gullet, and she shivered, thinking how easily that could’ve been her.

He…he still isn’t swallowing me.

His tongue soon relaxed, no longer pressing her against the wall of giant teeth. She inhaled a shaky breath, attempting to calm her frantic beating heart as she slowly accepted that perhaps she was safe after all. Why would he deliberately avoid swallowing her multiple times if he wasn’t going to do it? Especially after she had stabbed his tongue so harshly, she had expected him to swallow her almost immediately after doing something like that. But despite everything, he was holding her on top of his tongue like she was some kind of prized jewel. She was surprised that the vampire could be so gentle, especially in his mouth of all places where his dangerously sharp fangs could easily tear her in half.

Does he…care about me?

As soon as the thought entered her brain, heat blossomed across her face and her heart almost skipped a beat. Maybe he did care about her somewhat, after all, she had persuaded the group to allow him to feed on bandits and other thinking creatures. He had expressed gratitude towards her, and he had even thanked her for it the previous night. But she still couldn’t believe it.

No, that can’t be right. There’s no way that he could, especially after everything that’s happened…

The burning blush on her face only deepened and she knew for a fact that he could feel her tiny heartbeat pounding fiercely against her chest. She needed to get out of there quickly. She wasn’t sure just how much more of this she could take without turning into a complete mess.   

Gods, why me? Why did I have to suggest the alcohol idea in the first place?

As if her prayers were answered, light suddenly showered down on her small frame as his lips parted open. A startled squeak jumped out of her throat as pale, cold fingers gripped her waist and pulled her out of his mouth and into the cold air from outside. She shivered as the freezing air caressed over her saliva-coated skin, and for a brief second, she almost wished that she was back inside the warmth of the vampire’s mouth.

Before she could even process the thought, silky fabric smothered her entire body and gently massaged small circles into her drenched skin and clothes. She was completely numb to it all, her brain still attempting to comprehend what was even happening, but through all her mixed and flustered emotions she gathered that Astarion was attempting to dry her with what seemed to be a handkerchief of some kind. He continued to softly dry her soaked body, including her little head, his saliva and drying movements causing her hair to stick up in utterly ridiculous angles. Her face burned with embarrassment as he continued to dry her body and she was a little grateful that he couldn’t see her face during that moment.

The fabric soon pulled away, revealing Astarion’s piercing red gaze that settled on her small frame as she quivered in the palm of his hand.

“Well.” Astarion’s tongue swiped over his lips, a faint smile pulling at the corners of his mouth. “That certainly got a lot more intimate than what we planned for, didn’t it, darling?”

She opened and closed her mouth, but no audible sound registered on her lips. How was she supposed to talk after going through all of that, and then have him say that to her? Not to mention the way he ran his tongue over his lips – although she couldn’t tell if that was deliberate or not, it sent her heart spasming in her chest. Her mind failed to string together a coherent sentence as her lip trembled.

Astarion faltered, clearly seeing the look of distraught across her puffy face made him rethink what he was going to say next. His usual cheeky demeanour soon faded and was quickly replaced with a look of worry that once again surprised her.

“I do apologise for…uh…that.” He cleared his throat, his sanguine eyes staring at her with a soft warmth that was much unlike his usual piercing glare. “Holding you in my mouth was not my intended plan at all.”

He paused for a moment, his eyebrows knitting together as he cradled her in his hand.

“Are you alright?”

Her throat felt as if it were being crushed by some unseen force, tears pricked at her eyelids as her gaze darted away from his face to look at the floor below her as she sat in his cold palm. She didn’t know how to respond, after being faced with death once again and having those memories resurface, all she wanted to do was to run away and hide.

Of course I’m not alright. After all that, how can I possibly be?

“Ria?” Astarion’s voice rumbled all around her, startling her from her thoughts.

“Put me down,” she rasped, her voice barely above a whisper.

Both of his eyebrows shot up upon hearing her request. “Ria, we can ta-”

“I said put me down!” she exclaimed, tears burning her cheeks, her face swollen and puffy from crying. “Please. Now.”

He didn’t question her further as he dropped to one knee and lowered his hand to the ground. Immediately she hopped off his palm, rubbing her eyes with the back of her hand as she blinked back more tears.

She angled her neck upwards to look at him, his towering frame casting a long shadow over her tiny body as she swallowed back her rising fear. Now that she was on the ground, she was reminded once again just how small she was compared to him and everything else.

She needed to get away from him.

Before he could say anything, she sprinted away from him in the opposite direction. The ground trembled as his footsteps shuffled around on the dusty ground, and that only made her run faster.

Maybe it was utterly foolish for her to run away from her only means of protection, but she couldn’t bear to be around him in her current state. For her own sanity, she needed to get far away from him. They were still outside the Goblin Camp, the noises of the cheering from the goblins celebrating their latest kill rung heavily through the air, but she ignored it and continued to sprint towards the main building.

“Ria!” Astarion’s voice boomed from above, rattling through her very core and sending adrenaline spiking through her bloodstream. His large footfalls sent trembling earthquakes through the ground and she forced her legs to continue to run with all she had, not daring to look back.

In front of her she saw a small hole encrusted in the wall of the main building, just the right size for her to crawl into. She dashed inside, briefly feeling Astarion’s fingers brush past her hair as he made a failed attempt at grabbing her.  

“Wait, just hold on!” Astarion shouted from outside, his voice piercing her tiny eardrums and she flinched from the intensity.  

She ignored his words and instead ventured into the depths of the Goblin Camp.

[moth-mimic]

Mystical Powers?

at work I drank a cold brew coffee, diet coke, and sweet tea all at the same time and I had to release the caffeine somehow I’m so sorry

‣ pairing: Astarion x reader but from Gale’s POV

‣ words: 1697

‣ content: all jokes, Gale is purposefully mischaracterized, Gale is a ‘nice guy’ and owns smut fanfiction (implied), unrequited rivalry, Gale is basically Matthew Patel

───────────────────

‣ summary: Gale has done everything for you. Yes, he has ate your artifacts, but the reason you even offered them was because you were undoubtedly attracted to him. It was obvious from the way you talked to him last out of the entire group before going to sleep every night. He was just special like that. However, others— specifically a seductive white-haired elf— are not so keen to respect your guy’s destiny to be together. Gale sets out to prove luscious locks are never more important than a pure heart (without any ulterior motives at all).

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

Gale rummaged through his collections of books, desperately searching for the one holy piece of information that could grant him a solution to this little problem of his. This problem was not one of scholarly importance, he was well aware, and it was not likely he would find his answer in his ancient texts. But these books were all he knew. What was he going to do, communicate like a normal human that had not been cooped up in his depression tower for years? Blasphemy.

He had taken much of his time alone as of late to contemplate on how he should proceed with the situation. He was not avoiding it, obviously not. He was merely worried for your safety. A fragile one like you was not meant to associate yourself with those like Astarion, an elf skilled in the craft of manipulation and deceitful seduction. Astarion had merely blinded you. Gale was your only hope for freedom. He definitely did not think this just because he wanted to feel needed. And definitely not because he was just sick of seeing the both of you make bedroom eyes across each nightly bonfire.

Lost in his thoughts, his attention suddenly snapped back as he noticed a book of interest. He picked it up gingerly as he read the title.

“Taken by the Vampire King… What a lovely piece of literature, if I do say so myself.” He muttered as he began to delicately pry the cover open. He suddenly stopped himself and slammed the book closed as he remembered the point of this search. “No, this will not assist me. Well…. if seduction is what draws Tav to the pale elf, then I suppose…”

“Now what in the hells are you doing making such a mess in here?”

The sudden voice nearly caused Gale to literally explode, his hands grasping at his chest to calm himself. He spasmed for a minute as his brain rebooted. “Uh, uh, I—“ And then, as if a switch was flipped on inside his brain, he irritably whipped around. “To all gods, Astarion, what are you doing giving me such a fright in the middle of the night? Do you know nothing of peace?”

“Pardon me, but I am an elf. I’m not in need of sleep like you poor little things.” He snorted, conceited as usual, prowling over towards Gale and taking a peek at the book before Gale can even throw it across his tent. “And I see you’re busying yourself with… important matters, hm?”

“It’s for educational— No, what do you want from me, Astarion?”

“Just a friend…” he pouted like a neglected child, collapsing onto Gale’s bedroll in defeat. Gale would feel a twinge of guilt if it was not his mortal enemy saying those words. And also if there wasn’t an obvious layer of sarcasm beneath.

“No, no, out with it.”

“Uh, fine. I was wondering if you had some type of strength potion. I feel like utter shit.” Astarion sighed as he threw his head back, blowing a strand of wandering hair out of his face. Gale studied him as he was distracted— it didn’t seem like he was lying. He looked like utter shit, his hands twitching and under eyes so dark as if he had never seen the sun in his 200+ years of life. (Gale would soon realize this observation was, in fact, accurate)

“Yeah, I see that. And I’m a wizard, not an alchemist, actually. A wizard merely studies their practice of magic through multiple sources of teachings while an alchemist…”

Gale continued on as Astarion sat there in silence. It was not a respectable type of silence, but rather one of ‘if this dude doesn’t shut up I think I might actually kill him.’ His hands began to clench into fists, his nails digging into his flesh as Gale’s nonsensical words pounded through his brain. The tadpole was not the only force controlling him tonight. His eyes flickered with hunger, yet Gale did not notice.

“Gale.”

“Alchemists deserve all the respect, of course, yet they are unaccustomed to my field of— Ah, yes?”

“How does your blood taste?”

The wizard stopped in his tracks. “I- I’m sorry?” He waited for a response for a moment. When he did not get one he continued. “Well, if you must know, my blood actually tastes of bile. You see, it serves as a natural precaution against…” He thought for a moment. “Certain entities.”

Astarion had nothing more to say than a simple, “Hm.” The two looked at eachother for a brief second, awkwardly, one weighing his options and the other debating if it was fitting to run away. Fortunately for Gale, within another second the pale elf was gone from his tent, leaving the wizard with a cloud of confusion. And maybe just a bit of fear. He stood there a moment before his eyes slowly trailed to the book now on the other side of the tent. He remembered the bloodless boar on the side of the road. He pictured Astarion’s scarlet gaze, burning with desire for something unfathomable. Suddenly he knew the answer to his problem.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Gale had been watching the two of you ever since that unsettling night. He had witnessed some unsavory moments, yes, but everyone has to make their sacrifices. And his sacrifices were undoubtedly worth it— every night he stayed awake long enough to watch the elf make his way into the forest to sustain himself on blood from some unknown source. This night in particular was one that would change everything. This night was the night he would reveal Astarion’s true nature to you.

After witnessing Astarion make his way into the forest for his nightly ritual, Gale hurriedly makes his way into your tent.

“Y/N? Y/N! Wake up now, this is dire!”

“Huh—“ You, wide awake, turn around to Gale’s face a few mere inches from yours. “Gale! Why the hells are you in my tent?” You hiss, backing up to escape his pleading puppy eyes.

“No time for questions, we must go into the forest! There, a truth will be uncovered, and you will be free from the vampire’s wicked hold!”

You’re about to ask Gale to speak like a normal person, yet he quickly grabs your hand and drags you outside before you can protest. “Gale, this isn’t really—“

“I assure you it is!”

Without another word he leads you both onto Astarion’s trail. The only problem is that Gale does not seem to know exactly where the pale elf has wandered off to, as he has never before made the courageous decision to follow him into the unknown abyss of the woods. You watch him anxiously look around and mutter to himself. You sigh knowingly, turning away from him and walking on a path you’ve traced many times before.

“Wait, wait! It is incredibly dangerous and you do not know where your judgements may lead you!”

“I promise you I do.” You pointedly say, leading him deeper into the forest so familiar to both you and Astarion. You stop as you reach an area uncovered by the canopy of leaves.

“Why-“ Gale begins before catching sight of the perpetrator. There he is, standing there in the moonlit clearing, shirtless. Gale would probably take more notice to the current scenario if he did not already have a speech planned.

“You- You creature! I knew there was something foul deep within you from the moment we met! I recognized your intent all along— to simply deceit every innocent being you came upon, to lead them under your malicious influence. But here I stand, shattering your mask and revealing your true being: a vampire! Cower under my fireball—“ Gale stops for a minute, trying to remember what to do next, before quickly summoning a fireball in his hands like he originally intended. “And consider our fight… BEGUN!”

The crickets chirp as he finishes his lengthy speech. Astarion is the first to speak.

“…Is that all?”

“Yes. W-was it not obvious?”

With Gale’s answer, you and Astarion immediately break into a fit of laughter. Gale stands there, confused, quickly glancing between the two of you and wondering what the joke was.

“And what are you gonna prove my ‘true being’ with, oh wise wizard?” Astarion smirks, still collecting himself.

“With—! With…” Gale pauses, looks around in a panic, and realizes a key factor of his plan is missing. There is not a bloodless life to be seen. “What in the realms— Why are you here, then, Astarion? What do you sustain yourself with? Answer me!”

Astarion merely purses his lips, rhythmically tapping his fingers to the side of his face. He gives Gale a pitiful pout. “Oh dear… This is a bit awkward, isn’t it?”

And suddenly Gale realizes. He turns to you immediately, the fireball now accidentally pointed at you. “You knew?!”

You raise your hands in protest, eyeing the fireball in his hands. “I-I mean, yeah. Like, everybody knew. Except you, of course.”

“What?”

“They are right,” Astarion adds, “Nobody told you because you are a little… well… extreme.” A pause. “And desperate.”

“I’m— I’m not—!” Gale’s fireball just burns brighter, and you begin to think it’s enough to send the entire forest into flames. However, you’re more worried about the possibility of him literally exploding and obliterating everything in his proximity. You glance towards Astarion, whose eyebrows are furrowed at the same thought. The resentment in Gale’s eyes grows brighter with the flame. Yet, suddenly, the fire disappears. The wizard looks as if he’s about to collapse into despair at any moment. “I don’t understand! You make no sense!”

He turns towards you and points an accusing finger. Astarion just shrugs as you glance towards him. “Even when I am right in front of you, laying down my life, you do not care! I am a respectable wizard, name known to beings far and wide! What does he offer, huh?”

You silently raise your eyebrow. Gale just scowls.

“Ugh. Typical.” And with that he whips around, his sleep robe lashing behind him. As he storms off he adds, “Don’t even add me to your party tomorrow. Or ever.”

You weren’t planning on it.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

So a few days ago I posted something about making a ‘nice guy’ Gale fanfic but not posting it out of shame and I ended up getting like 30+ likes so I thought it was only fair to actually post. Anyway please don’t hold me accountable for this k thanks love u guys I’ll probably have LOTR content soon

[animentality]

It's tough because I hate the Astarion haters on Reddit, who are just misogynistic and homophobic and dismissive of the character because they hate how gay he acts and also how many women love him.

but I also hate BookTok Astarion fangirls who feel the need to assert how superior Astarion is on every fucking Gale, Wyll, Halsin, Shadowheart, Minthara, Lae'zel, Karlach or pretty much any BG3 video at all. Like we get it. He's white.

And then I'm ambivalent on the Tumblr Astarion fans because there are the people who simply like him and make fun art and fun meta analysis about him, and then there are the people in my inbox currently telling me that Astarion's Ascended ending is morally correct and it's not a bad ending for the character, and if I disagree, then I hate women.

You're correct that I hate women, but it has nothing to do with Astarion.

Also, I once again point out, that your own husbando literally tells you outright in both endings that being Ascended ruins/ruined who he used to be and also your love for one another.

Your man literally says that your love would have been corrupted by becoming his spawn, and you still cling to the idea that your character is living happily ever after.

He's not making you a vampire queen, he's making you a vampire pet. And it's fine to like that ending. I don't care if you LIKE bad, unhappy endings. That is your prerogative. But you are simply incorrect if you say that it's the "happy" ending for the character, when it clearly is not.

No one ever said you had to use your skull for anything other than cold cut storage, I just don't see why it's even necessary to argue your point to me.

Stay in your Astarion echo chamber, and block me. I don't have time or energy to block all of you.

Anyway.

It sucks because I really like Astarion, he's my favorite love interest.

I really enjoy his storyline and his growth as a person and how sweet he is. He's also very funny. All the companions have great voice acting behind them, but Neil really knocked it out of the park, and I honestly think the character would be far less popular if they'd picked any other actor.

But the fandom around him is just...awful.

It's a mixed bag of normal, unnormal in a fun way, and unnormal in a "you need to fucking step off in this Walmart bitch" way.

It's why I'd rather interact with Dark Urge and Gortash fans.

Much smaller subset of the fandom, so I don't have to deal with the generic crazies, and we're all such freaks that we don't feel the need to go around acting like Gortash is a good person.

I also only ever see people saying these two are fucking disgusting and horrible and I'd murder them in real life and honestly, true and based.

No happy endings for those two, and that's fine for me. In fact, it's great.

See, Astarion girlies, this is called...knowing your ship doesn't deserve a happy ending after all they have done, and knowing it wouldn't be a happy ending if they got together, but being able to acknowledge that and not get bent out of shape trying to justify it.

Stop tying your irl morality to your tastes in fiction.

I never said that liking the ascended ending made you a bad person in real life.

I just said that pretending it's good and happy and great and not continuing the cycle of abuse, is factually incorrect.

And it is.

Every single bad ending for all the love interests is literally continuing the cycle of abuse. Why would Astarion's be any different?

But maybe I'm being bold in assuming you even know the other love interests exist or have stories. Maybe you don't even know the general story of baldur's gate 3, because it is, as you say, the vampire dating sim, and it's definitely not about anything other than banging the sexy vampire.

Media literacy weeps.

Anyway.

Not ruining my enjoyment of the game.

Just my general tolerance for the fandom that is not Durge and Gortash obsessed.

[smt4flynn]

embiggen, embolden

Rating: R18/Explicit (Minors DNI)

Notes: This is a story about misusing the enlarge spell to do some shenanigans with Astarion. I wrote this in the coffee shop where I constantly kept oscillating between being cold and EXTREMELY cold, so I lost steam a little bit, but I wanted to finish it!

On AO3 this is apparently 4K wordcount. Also, you can find this on ao3 under the same name, by ao3 user Voidromeda! =)

-----

This isn’t the first time you cast Enlarge on Astarion – during combat, of course, just to help boost his combat prowess even further (and it does terrify you how strong he quickly becomes, helped by the fact that he finally lets Lae’zel and Karlach be his coaches) – but you normally recall it fading away after some time. You do not recall it ever backfiring and making him even bigger, to the point that he is literally towering over all of you, and looking confused as he is.

“I have looked everything over,” Gale says after a while, stood in front of a sitting, cross-legged Astarion who is now almost thrice everyone’s size, his hands are clasped in front of him and he seems to be smiling too wide, “and my conclusion is this: assuming if, and if, you did all of the incantations correctly and used the proper gesticulations, and given that I was there to hear you do the correct chant, the somatic and verbal components should not be the issue at hand here. The only thing I can assume is that the materials used were at fault somehow, or that the weave decided today, of all days, to be a right petty bastard and Mystra wished to have a lark at your expense.”

Astarion huffs out in annoyance, his breath ruffling Gale’s hair, and he turns around to look at him with his own momentary irritation . Astarion throws his hands up in faux surrender. “So, to boil it all down for us little peoples,” his voice practically drips venom, “you have no clue why this happened and, for all you know, you have no clue when I am going to turn back.”

“Correct!” and you have to hold back a laugh at the fact that Gale seems to be enjoying Astarion’s mounting irritation a little too much.

“I am big enough to eat you.” he says.

“But you and I know you won’t do that, unless you want a netherese bomb in your body! And I don’t think you want to figure out how to vomit me out to resurrect me!”

“Or how to shit you out.” Astarion grumbles, but he is too big for it to be quiet, and Karlach snorts particularly loudly at that. Lae’zel looks disgruntled, as she always does, and she looks between you, Gale, and Astarion before letting out an annoyed declaration in Gith and decides to leave them at that.

Shadowheart eyes the (rather) giant vampire, then turns to Karlach as she says, “you know, now that he’s bigger than you, he could probably carry you around and withstand your engine.”

“OH. YOU’RE RIGHT.” Karlach says a little too loudly. A glare from Astarion has her hushing herself, “oh, you’re right!” she repeats, and Astarion pointedly pokes her away with an index when Karlach tries to climb up on top of him. He hisses a little, though it isn’t as bad of a response as the rest of you had to touching Karlach. That has her eyes alight with excitement, much to Astarion’s chagrin. “But, he’d eventually get burnt up, yeah? Probably ain’t a reason to bother ‘im, he already looks like he’s about to blow and he’s not the one with the engine. Dammon said, anyway, that we just gotta find one last iron.”

“You won’t be able to ride around on his back.” Shadowheart says with an arch of her eyebrow. “Unless, of course, you’d like to go find one right now so we can rush on back to Dammon and try out your newfound touch on Astarion.”

“Teeeeeempting, tempting, but I don’t think we should just rush ‘round for a bit, yeah? It’s so tempting though! Ugh! I hate making good decisions!”

She gives him a good-nature grin and Astarion puffs air her way, which happens to also ruffle your and Shadowheart’s hairs. Despite him not needing to really eat (“of course I can still taste food,” he says to you after you give him a piece of chocolate cake that you particularly really like, “it’s just dulled, and not at all nutritious for me, it’s not even a luxury . Your blood is like heaven on my tongue. Why would I want anything else? ”), his breath smells like some sort of rosy ale mixed with a vanilla pastry. It isn’t that bad, though it still is a bit unpleasant.

“And what of you, Halsin? What do you make of this?” Gale spins on his heel to point over to the druid who arches an eyebrow up at Astarion, just as puzzled as everyone else is that the vampire is now... large. Quite, quite large.

“Though wizards and sorcerers oft pride themselves on their honed control over the weave, be it granted, earned, or both,” Halsin says pleasantly, as though he is talking about the weather and naught else, “it is not so strange that even the most skilled of wizards and the most gifted of sorcerers, or others should they have a grasp of it, shall have their mind wander and for the spell’s consistency to slip. One’s tools can only be as consistent as one’s body and mind.”

“So you think I got distracted, and that led to the spell backfiring?” you question. You aren’t really offended by it; the last combat encounter you have, where this mistake occurs, is a hectic one, with reanimated corpses reaching out to grasp at you and try to drag you under. “That makes sense.” and Halsin nods thoughtfully your way. “So the best thing to do is to just wait?”

“Yes.” Halsin gives you a smile and you smile awkwardly back.

Gale takes this as his cue to leave, citing having found some new books that he would like to look through while they wait for Astarion’s condition to fix itself, and Karlach gets herded away by Shadowheart so that they can do something else. Wyll, who has been absent for most of this, suggests to the former two and to Lae’zel to go patrolling around the Shadow-Cursed lands, and the three women jump at the opportunity to leave.

When you look over, Gale disappears into somewhere and you think it best not to ask. Halsin, seeing that people seem to be leaving to do their own activities, excuses himself to go and look further into the Shadow-Cursed lands, to try and see if he can find anything now that he is more experienced. It is just you and Astarion now, the vampire staring at you with some mixture of interest and mischief.

“So!” Astarion clicks his tongue. You look at him a bit warily. He must be a bit angry at you, considering that you’re the reason as to why this happens, though you can’t see it anywhere on his face. That’s even worse, your mind supplies, because Astarion – for all everyone makes fun of him for being extremely obvious – can also be frightfully subtle when he wants to be. When he puts the effort in, you have seen him speak sweet little lies to some of the still sentient shades, encouraging them to curl further to Shadowheart before they melt painfully under her cast of daylight.

You think he does not try on the living because some form of guilt keeps him at bay. What happens when that bit of guilt is gone, you wonder?

“So.” you say when he stays quiet. Astarion smirks at your uncertainty.

When he comes to a stand, properly, you find yourself just a little below his crotch – Karlach, earlier, points and bellows loudly that she is ‘almost dick-height! Just a little above it, actually, that’s fucking hysterical!’ which is why Astarion makes sure to stay sitting for a good while. You, however, stand so close to crotch height it is mortifying. You have to take a step back and crane your neck up, almost painfully so, to be able to look at him.

It shocks you when he simply scoops you up into his arm, lifting you up on one elbow, and you are held up to his face rather easily. He gives you a cheeky grin. “Admittedly, I was miffed with you at first; it really is hard to be so,” he clicks his tongue, “stealthy when you’re a huge brute. But I think I’m beginning to see the upsides!”

“The upsides.” you say flatly. He chuckles, the sound seemingly louder because of his size, and he uses one hand to carefully cradle your head and bring you close for an awkward kiss. Your lips are so small in comparison to his, and it embarrasses you a little how tiny you feel. “Astarion,” you start, pushing his face back a bit, and you give him a half-hearted glare, “can you – can you not have desires right now when you’re way too big for me?”

“But darling,” and he drags it out just to annoy you, snickering at the little tick in your brow, “when will we ever get an opportunity like this again, hm? Us all alone, no one to bother us, especially when these lands are cursed as they are. Don’t you want to see how big I’ve gotten down there? I’m curious to see it myself.”

You want to say that you are a bit more forceful when you say no.

Astarion carries you away from the camp, blessed as you both are by Isobel’s magics, though you have a feeling that Selûne will more than likely disapprove of how Astarion is taking advantage of your weak protections. You aren’t really... isolated, given that Astarion is still so large and attracting attention, but nothing really wants to approach him when he is so, so large. Undressing you is extremely easy for him, and you find yourself being cradled gently by him. His eyes are wide, taking you apart, and the hunger on his face is even more unavoidable because of his size. His fingers, which have always been larger than yours, positively dwarf your legs when he helps hold you up in the air.

Holding you up like this, with his hands trying to cradle you while his thumbs attempt to spread your legs, you feel like a bug under intense scrutiny. He exhales out through his nose, instinctively despite the vestigial nature of it all, and you shudder from the way his breath washes over you. He leans closer to you, crowding you, and his large lips press a dainty kiss against your folds. You grab at one of his thumbs when it comes to rest on your belly, his tongue rolling out to drag between your soft folds.

You whimper; it is a lot of sensation at once, rubbing against your labia all at once, even when he tries to thin it, narrow it to press it against your hole. He pushes you closer lips completely overtaking your vulva, large tongue lapping mindlessly between your folds, and you moan loudly from the sensation. He hums approvingly, the vibrations all too much at once, head tilting to the side to mouth at your thigh.

“Do you trust me for a moment, darling?” Astarion says.

“For more than a moment.” you say, your voice a bit rough from your moaning, and Astarion grins ever so sweetly at you before his expression becomes thoughtful.

“I’m going to put you further into my mouth,” he warns, “nothing will happen to you. You’ll be fine. Trust me.” and you do, of course. You nod at him when he looks at you, verbalise it next when his expression grows sharp, and his tongue rolls out once more to give you a distracting, flat, broad lick against your swollen vulva.

His mouth opens over your vagina again, his tongue dragging from your swollen, emerging clit down to your puckered hole. He laps against you, quick, skilled flicks of his tongue even with his larger muscle, and you writhe and whine loudly. He pulls back for a moment, looking at you critically, before his mouth falls open and you try not to kick at him when his lips wrap around your feet, up until your ankles. He lets you slip further into his mouth – and it is so hot and wet inside, lips wrapped around half of your body, and your hands come to rest above his upper lip when he finally stops.

Wildness flashes briefly in his eyes before he squeezes them shut and opens them to look at you carefully. His tongue slathers his saliva against your legs, briefly exploratory, tasting your skin in a way that makes you shiver from the discomfort and odd excitement of being at his mercy in an entirely different way. The muscle flattens up against your vulva once more, pressing between your folds, swirling his tongue around before going back to tasting your legs, drenching you in his saliva.

Your hips jump up, trying to move in tandem with his tongue when he goes back to licking you mercilessly, the tip of his tongue swirling around your engorged clit. It lays flat, swirling and grinding against your clit, flicking it up and down, and you shake, shiver. You press your hands against his skin, unable to move your body much because of it trapped in his mouth.

It is when you are able to cum in his mouth, your whines and moans getting louder, shamefully so, that Astarion pulls you out of his mouth, murmurs a prestidigitation under his breath to wipe the saliva away, and you shiver at how suddenly cold you feel. He grins lopsidedly down at you. “See? It wasn’t that bad now, was it, darling?” and he presses a sloppy kiss between your legs, against your sensitive vagina, and you shiver.

He settles you down onto his knee, stopping you when you try to grind against him, and he clicks his tongue. You stiffen up, grasping at his leather trousers, bunching it up in your pathetically small hands. He works to unfasten his strings, pausing before he has to set you aside so he can undress himself. You can only watch as his body is revealed to you – blouse peeled off of his body, trousers shoved down and away, and embroidered underwear thrown aside to reveal his horrifically large erection.

It stands painfully erect before you, dripping copiously at its enlarged tip, and Astarion lifts you up again to sit on his abdomen. He leans back, his cock slapping against your back when you sit up, spreading his pre over you, and it feels like you are being marked by some sort of feral beast. Astarion chuckles at the look on your face, a fond expression overtaking him for a moment.

“You always were such a little thing.” he murmurs (he likes how small you are, how he can cage you in his arms and hold you, that you are the smallest out of them all and it makes him want to do terrible things to you while holding you in his arms), “but this is ever sweeter. Do you think you can take me?”

Looking behind yourself, to his hard, large erection that throbs and oozes more pre-cum from your gaze, then looking down at your vulva that feels like it will break in half, you know you can’t. “I will most definitely try.” is what you say instead, because you always want to please him, you know you do.

He helps you move up, his slender fingers wrapping around his pale, pretty penis; not a single hair anywhere, wonderfully thick and perfectly long, spreading you nicely before and now threatening to rip you in half, and he gives himself a few strokes just for some form of relief. You spread your legs, leaning back and his cock slaps against your back when he lets go so that he can instead press his fingers against your small hole.

One finger is a pleasant stretch. It sinks into you readily, making you huff and moan loudly from the sensation; you whimper with a bit of fear when a second finger presses against your wonderfully stuffed hole, his fingernail catching a bit at your rim before he presses it incessantly in. It takes some trying, your tongue rolling out from your panting; you struggle, muscles tensing and relaxing in short little bursts before you finally let that second finger in, and your eyes roll up into your head from the intense stretch.

It sinks in until the second knuckle, your mouth open with endless, whiny moans; it’s so much, forcing your stuffed vagina to accept even more in, and you wail when both fingers are pressed deep inside of you. His large thumb presses down on your sensitive clit and you make a strangled noise, hips jumping forward and you let out a soft squeak at the way his fingers feel inside of you.

“Good, good, you’re doing so good,” he murmurs, sick excitement painting his face and staining his voice as you fuck yourself on his large fingers. You pulse and flutter around his fingers, a shriek pushed out of you when he drags his fingers out just to thrust them mercilessly back in. You are most definitely going to gape the moment his fingers are done with you and Astarion seems to come to the same realisation with how roughly he keeps thrusting them in and out of you.

His cock twitches against you; his eyes are wild, staring down at your poor little hole that is going red from his attentions, stretched wide around his two fingers. When he teases a third one in, you babble incoherently – “I can’t take another!” you cry out and Astarion hushes you.

“You can darling, you can, come on,” he encourages, the third finger feeling almost impossibly too much, yet he still presses it against your fluttering, full hole. You don’t even know how he pushes it in – perhaps when he pulls the two fingers out and introduces the third amidst the soaked two, and it is shameful how much pre you yourself are dripping all over him. You don’t even get a second to register what is happening before he slams three fingers in and you are orgasming violently from the intense, almost-painful stretch.

Squirting copiously, you weep and beg when he keeps his thrusts going, extending your orgasm even as your cum begins puddling on his stomach, and it is only when you can cum no more and your voice is just pathetic whimpering that he pulls his soaked fingers out. His face is utterly wild, making him look almost feral, bestial, and he spreads your folds open further to stare at your gaped open hole.

“That looks like it could take me.” he says with strained breath, voice rough and a low growl, and he grabs you by the hips while you still feel insensate and boneless from your rough orgasm. The head of his cock feels almost comically large as he presses you against it, your hole spasming wildly, clenching up to drip more onto his erection and almost as if dreading how empty it is, before it relaxes open again and Astarion keens loudly.

He pushes you down, your hands flailing a bit before resting on his abdomen when he pushes down enough for it. He isn’t even halfway inside of you before you feel so stuffed, filled up with so much of his penis that you are surprised you haven’t torn completely open; perhaps it is a good thing he introduced the third finger, even though he no doubt adds it in because of the fact that he is lost in the sensation, in the moment. Your claws drag at his belly, sliding against your own cum and he giggles, your own much breathier than his own, because it is ridiculous how much he made you cum.

“You’re so – so – so incorrigible,” you slur out a little, your hole unable to even clench down on his fat erection, and his hands push down on your hips while you try to comply with him. It’s so much – he’s too much as he is right now, hands slipping on his stomach and you arch your back, thighs tensing up from the effort of trying to sink further, further down.

His fingers come to rest on your abdomen, his voice a bit awed as he says, “your belly’s bulging with me. You can’t take me.” but that doesn’t stop him; you look down and see he is right, his shape is poking through, bulging you obscenely with his erection. You feel like you are being hollowed out by him, and it doesn’t help when you aren’t even down all the way and Astarion is grabbing onto you and taking over.

All of your movement is abruptly taken away and controlled entirely by him. You scream so loudly that you are sure even the hunting team, so far away, can hear you; your tongue slips out again, your right hand slipping on his stomach before messily coming to your own clit to stroke and rub it as Astarion begins fucking you.

Both of you are just grunting, groaning animals, him growling exactly like one, and his eyes are wide and feral, focused on how your poor vagina can’t take all of him with how big he is. He babbles incomprehensibly at you, as if trying to praise you, though absolutely nothing he says makes sense, and you can’t help but laugh before it turns into a high-pitched whine.

“Please, cum for me, cum, let me see you cum around me,” Astarion says, the first coherent thing to slip out of his wet lips and his eyes shine bright now with love, and it is that begging, the way he looks at you, that sets you off again. Your orgasm isn’t as violent as the first time, though it still gets to you that you squirt again – far less copiously this time, but still enough to add to the mess already cooling on him, and he coos lovingly at you.

With your legs now shaky, body exhausted by your orgasm, he slows down, his thrusts lazy and leisurely before he digs his feet into the darkened lands with his hands dripping to claw at the earth before he cums deep inside of you. The amount inside makes you yelp – your belly rounds out with his spend and it ends up being too much to stay inside, squirting around him as it starts to escape, and he pulls out to let the rest of it land on your vulva, inner thighs, and even on your stomach.

You can’t clench your hole shut to stop his spend from just dripping out of you, forced into a rather big gape, and you just hum when he settles you down beside him and lets you try and catch your breath.

“Thank you for trusting me,” Astarion begins, and you murmur into his arm that he lets you use as a pillow, “I am aware it was… abrupt, and perhaps I may have pushed you too far, but you were a good sport about it.”

You nuzzle into his elbow. “I’m more glad that you wanted to do this with me,” you say, voice so sleepy, mind more than hazy, “I want you to feel safe to explore whatever you want.” and you don’t get to see his loving, fond gaze before you fall asleep, your body pushed beyond belief.

[When the two of you go back to the camp, way later when his condition seems to have finally faded, you are utterly shamefaced because you both look dishevelled and like you’ve been up to no good, though Astarion seems to be in very bright spirits about it. You try not to maul him violently when he ‘innocuously’ asks Gale if there is any way to adjust one’s size when enlarged. Karlach’s hyena like laughter at your embarrassment makes you wish you could just die.

You hate this vampling so very, very much.]

[wetcatspellcaster]

"Angry lesbian" had me in tears 😂

This chapter had been heartbreaking. Poor Astarion. I want to hug him, with consent. While reading the part of what Cazador made him do in this fic and how public reacted, I remembered Gossip by Maneskin. Like, the celebrity culture is ridiculous as it is, but mixing in someone like Cazador to be the kinda monopolist of it... Oof. (Disney, I'm looking at you too)

I'm also was reminded of This is Us, a bit. I watched the show long time ago now, but yeah. That "pretty face, perfect body, don't you talk smart, you are not here for it", and all the confidence problems. Please don't get offended, I'm just connecting the dots to imagine how Astarion's healing may go. He is doing a fair enough job, thanks to Wyll mostly as I understand.

Also. The internalised homophobia. Is it there? Because I can smell it. With him assuming Rose is lesbian, and not really caring about representation, and like yeah, not everyone does, but. Oooh so much trauma. Sign him up for therapy, Wyll. Please.

I can imagine Wyll once tugging Astarion alone to one of the parties Karlach throws, and then him and Rose both accidentally hiding in the bathroom for some reset and quiet time.

Their messaging was so cute. And I assumed Rose was keeping it professional, as not answering work emails on her days off, but I guess I forgot who she truly is. Can't wait to read what they were up to.

So, is the apartment Rose visited in the apartment Astarion lives? I got confused about the printer being one of the few pieces of furniture there. Or is it just his own furniture that there is little of? Poor baby will have to start as a student who just moved out. And with his taste, it will be expensive. Unless he finds a sugar mummy Rosalie, but that'll come in ten years (probably), and I hope he will smarten up until then.

I was laughing at Astarion reading the books and taking in the multi syllabic words. I could imagine his Intelligence scale going 9.1, 9.2, 9.3 all the time.

It's hilarious and bittersweet how he thinks Rose is adapt when we all read and felt how anxious she was. And how she thought him so cold and collected, when Astarion is literally on the brink of breakdown over his career. The masks are on point.

And just how well you adapted game Astarion to this AU Astarion. He is just as haughty and just the same menace he was in game, but wrapped in more shiny (if that's possible) package. And the nods to the vampirism, even when he is not a vampire here. The hat, the love of sunlight, the shitty food, the insomnia! I've been screaming, even if that was incidental connections.

I can so imagine Astarion not reading type. He just isn't. He is too busy with other... Stuff. So hope Rose will show him the world. Of library. (Oh no, now I remember what Rose got up at libraries, and oof. Hot)

I can imagine it will take time for Astarion to trust her, and open up, since they barely know each other. It will be such a fun journey, I'm sure you will write it masterfully as always, and we will enjoy it immensely!

And the podcast part (that orcish woman - hot), and the book - "the soup" I bet was fun to write. And I'm with Astarion - I would've listened to Rosalie talk about everything for days. She is so expressive and clearly interested in the subject, that it will be very entertaining and educational. I wish she had been my history professor, because I would've enjoyed the lectures much more than I ever did, and now I'll learning history by myself. So I can understand Astarion's perspective at "oh shit, this person who was so glorified is actually not only ugly AF, but also a horrible horrible person"

Thank you so much for this chapter! It's a nice cozy reading for a dreary raining day!

hi anon! thanks for such a detailed message. i'm glad you're enjoying the fic :) tried to answer your question below!

I've never seen This Is Us, so I can't really be offended lol. If this turns out to be another Bojack Horseman moment where i find out my plot has affinities to shows I've never seen then, hurrah! there really are 7 basic plots in the world. (a lot of the inspiration was mostly from webtoons, kdrama, and - as always - buffy).

about internalised homophobia, I mean... there's a difference between internalised homophobia, and having a sense of belonging/community when being gay. lots of people are queer without it being political, or they 'keep politics out of it' - unless in this case, where it serves a narrative. i don't think it's homophobia, so much as not finding that belonging with anybody, right now. this astarion has no community, and also a great degree of privilege, so why would he care to engage or empathise with strangers he doesn't know? i was just using it as a way to stress his feelings of isolation, the same that in the first act of the game he is performing a social script without really feeling anything other than survival, and how he is also alienated from himself. if you don't feel good about yourself and you also don't have a support network, then why would you be openly vulnerable about any kind of queer experience, especially when it's overlapped with a degree of abuse, especially when you're learning to wield an insincere version of it as a new weapon?

...maybe when he has friends...

as for the 'angry lesbian' joke, we'll get round to why he is assuming that in the next chapter, and the answers is funnier than you think

the apartment Rosalie visited is where he lives. if you imagine an airbnb, an airbnb wouldn't have a printer. one of the few things he's had to buy outside of essentials, is all i meant. bc he doesn't really have anything he needs to buy right now.

all vampirism references/transformations are deliberate :) and parties incoming x

[omgkalyppso]

Étoile Ienith | High Elf | Paladin | They/He | 166

What is your Tav’s…

favorite weapon: mace as an elf, teeth as a vampire

most prized possession: this post is in Étoile's tag for a reason, everything is mutable / replaceable / subject to the ravages and loss of time

deepest desire: to serve Auril's interests

guilty pleasure: the thrill of combat

best-kept secret: I know I never shut up about it, but it would be that their mother was a werewolf

greatest strength: every one of Étoile's strengths is a flaw I think. Their conviction. They're willing to see their choices through, but the ability to accept their initial instincts were wrong might be better 🤪. Their determination to see an end goal realized regardless of personal cost to avoid their greatest fear - loss of autonomy - is what lands them in Raphael's pact, so, also not great. The traits that see them survive their journey land them in their Neutral Evil alignment. They want to stand up for worshippers of non-good-aligned deities, werewolves and the (un)dead, and it put them in opposition of their Paladin Order and Good people. It would feel silly to say their greatest strength is their literal strength / combat prowess aksjdfgjkahsg.

fatal flaw: self-sacrificial and not even smart about it

favorite smell: cold, pine, patchouli

favorite spell or cantrip: Auril's Flowers

pet peeve: people who are overly familiar

bad habit: "pick your battles. pick… pick fewer battles than that. put some battles back. that’s too many"

hidden talent: can repeat a tune on a flute after hearing it twice

leisure activity: reading

favorite drink: nonalcoholic - black rosehip tea; alcoholic - White Draconic Ale, Devil's Blood Whiskey, Deepwine

comfort food: bovine roast, maple butter cookies

favorite person(s): Aranea, Astarion, Lae'zel, Shadowheart, Halsin, and on and on

favored display of affection (platonic and/or romantic): platonically - hugging; romantically - completing a task or favour that brings some delight to their partner

fondest childhood memory: developing their innate high elf cantrip Ray of Frost at seven years old; their mothers, worshippers of Auril, were very proud

Tagged by @razrogue (((o(*ﾟ▽ﾟ*)o

Tagging: @umbralstars, @luinen-bluewater, @boghermit, @bosspigeon, @toucansafari, @sp3llw0rk, @lucius-the-sinful, @jackalopedread and YOU!

Also, about Étoile and being cold and swimming:

A friend has an oc who worships Umberlee and I read that worshippers of Umberlee don't learn to swim, and told them that I could picture Étoile's mothers teaching them to swim in a fucking frigid stream / river and using the reasoning "We don't worship Umberlee," and that in the ice water on their snow capped mountain, little Étoile complaining that "It's cold," would get such an earful from their priest of Auril mother, Aranea about how cold was a blessing, etc. So that even years later, if struck by an unexpected amount of cold water, like walking under a branch, or eavestroughing that spills water down their back, or if someone (cruelly?) tossed a cold bucket of water on them as they slept tranced that Étoile's instinctive reaction is to mutter / hiss / exclaim, "Praise Auril."

[paganwitchisis]

Chapter 5 "What Love Can Change" (WLCC)

Chapter Five:  Married at Last

Rated: E for Explicit!!

Pairing: AFAB Female Tav/Spawn Astarion

Words: 7,699

TRIGGER WARNING -Breeding kink, violence, descriptions of trauma, sexual assault, torture, suicide attempt and mention/idealization, self harm, starvation, depression, pregnancy, hyper-sexuality, and rape.

Last Chapter - here

This is chapter 5

Chapter 6 is here!

AO3 link is here!

“I should be the one with cold feet, dear.” Astarion joked since being a vampire afforded him the literal cold feet in this situation.

 “I’m excited to marry you, if that is what you’re asking.” Tav murmured, her breath tickling the tiny hairs on the side of his neck as her head lay on his shoulder into the side of the neck.

“I do have something I need to ask you, my love. I think I may have found a way to make you immortal. No, you wouldn’t be a mummify, lich, vampire, clone, or any other undead creature.” Astarion added the end to reassure her as he was fearful of her rejecting the proposal he considered.

“Sounds too good to be true. What’s the catch?” Tav asked skeptically.

Astarion let out a breath he wasn’t aware he was holding in.

“You obviously know Mystra, Gale’s lover.”

Tav chuckled. “I’m not sure I’d say that’s her highest achievement to describe her as nor still relevant.”  

“Alright, how about this, the Goddess of magic who above all else has mastery over it. Who wants something we can give her and only us. We hold bargaining power. She has the ability to give us a wish if we ask for it in exchange. You wouldn’t be ruled by eternal hunger like I am. You could still be you, but never die.“ Astarion felt like his mouth kept over explaining, trying desperately to convince her to go with the plan. In reality, he wanted her to become immortal not for her, but for his own selfishness. He couldn’t live without her.

“What could she want…wait…the Crown?” Tav came to the conclusion without Astarion needing to mention it. Astarion remained quiet as Tav continued to speak.

“Wouldn’t that betray Gale? Furthermore, wouldn’t that be a bad idea? That crown has caused nothing but problems and should be destroyed!” Tav picked her head up from his neck and turned to face him as she spoke.

Astarion tried to sound and look as neutral as possible when he spoke next.

“In regards to Gale, we wouldn’t tell him. I’d find a way to swipe it somehow during the final battle. He wouldn’t know. Also, before all this happened, remember the crown existed for quite some time in a devil’s vault. This crown is pure magic, she would know more than anyone how to deal with it.” Astarion tried to rationalize.

Tav stayed quiet for a moment and laid her head back down on his shoulder.

“I’ll think about it. This is too big a decision to make right away. I mean…I do want to be with you, but do I want to out live our friends and family? Do I want to give the Crown out instead of getting rid of it somehow? I don’t know. I need time.”  Tav mentioned .

Astarion held her snugly before giving a reply. “Take what time you need.”

Astarion wouldn’t tell her that his reasoning was selfish or that he couldn’t live without her. For once, he didn’t want to manipulate her. In the past? Sure, it provided security, but Astarion cared and respected Tav too much to do that to her. He was in an openly honest relationship with her, and although he wasn’t being fully honest, he didn’t want her to make a decision based on his needs.

The couple got dried off and dressed before deciding to retire to the shared room with their friends for the night, much to their friend’s surprise. It was still early enough that their friends hadnt turned in for the night.

“I see the young lovers found time to come see us tonight.” Halsin commented, a smirk on his face and a wink resting in his eye.

“What does that mean?” Tav asked, Astarion already agitated with the man from earlier when he gave him a detestable pet name.

“I mean, I think the whole Tavern could hear you both tonight. Nothing wrong with love, of course. I just thought you two would be…buried in each other all night.” Halsin laughed without abandon.

Astarion wasn’t a fan of the word choice or innuendo, but he wasn’t exactly wrong. The tavern also never mentioned to them anything about noise violations, so Astarion figured Halsin was just jesting at their expense.

“It was tempting, but we have a whole honeymoon for that! Gotta save some surprises.” Tav answered and smirked at the man.

Astarion glanced around the room to find Gale out cold on his bed, which made sense, since he was the most drunk out of his party. Wyll was chatting with Lae’zel, who Astarion noticed was glaring at them constantly with irritation. Karlach was talking to Tav and Shadowheart excitedly. Jaheira was plucking Boo out of the food while Minsc gave excuses. Astarion gave a half smile. These crazy weirdos were surprisingly his friends, and in a way, his new family. Maybe Tav was influencing him more than he thought…

That night the group played some games among themselves and had a fun time. Even Gale woke up and participated some. It was the calm before the storm, and the group knew it, because as soon as the festivities surrounding the wedding died down, it was time to wrap things up and finish their adventure they set off on so long ago.

That night, although they were back with their friends, Astarion went to lay in his bunk when a hand clasped his forearm and pulled him away. He knew those hands anywhere and knew Tav had something else in mind for him for sleeping arrangements.

Astarion almost tumbled backwards losing his balance when she directed him. Astarion turned to see her moving, her hand around his limb but most importantly he was facing the right direction and could walk appropriately without risk of fumbling over his two feet. Astarion was going to speak and opened his mouth only for Tav to turn her head and put her finger to her lips in a bid to ask him to be silent. Astarion was amused and listened to her direction. She brought him to the four beds on the side where Isobel and Dame Aylin used to come before they left to help others, promising to return for the final battle. There, she let go of his arm and slided into the bed, patting the outside of the bed in a bid to ask him to sleep with her in the small bunk. Astarion did as he was asked and held her close under the sheets that covered them both, a little over dressed than he would like for the intimacy he craved. He didn’t crave sex, at least not that moment. His body was sated from the intense session just hours ago. He wanted to be as close as he possibly could with her, his fears about the upcoming battle and his concern about his brethren finding them nestled in the back of his head. For now and considering their company, clothes were acceptable, of course. He couldn’t fight off intruders or assassins in the nude comfortably. Astarion thought of how funny a sight that would be. Astarion tucked her head under his chin and could feel her breath even out as she fell into a deep slumber. Astarion also knew that although it was possible it could be a preference that they sleep together, she most likely wished he’d sleep with her to stave away the nightmares. Since the nightmares were confessed, Astarion had spent every night possible sharing a bed with her. The times he did not, she suffered, which led to guilt for the vampire. He thought it was comical to a degree that he was the being that held off the monsters in her world, when to most people, he was the monster.

Astarion wasn’t sure when but he fell into a peaceful light trance, listening for any movement in the dark and predators who would dare to hurt them. His sleeping habits were defined by years of torture and training. Thankfully, nothing happened that night that drew his attention, however once Astarion awoke there was a neatly tied parcel sitting on the floor near the front door. Astarion took a moment to slip out of bed and let Tav continue to sleep as he investigated. It was still too early for anyone to be up. Astarion spied the curious item and noted the handwriting. It seemed strangely familiar.

Astarion read the note attached which only said that it was for both himself and Tav and congratulations on the wedding. Astarion was confused how the package even ended up in the room without startling him in the first place? Maybe he was too comfortable sleeping with Tav that he was losing his touch. Astarion opened the package slowly and pulled the string to undo the wrapping, worried it would trigger a trap. It finally revealed a book. Astarion was curious but as he went to lay a finger on the book, Astarion heard rummaging from the bed he left only minutes ago. He turned to look and saw a groggy Tav looking back at him. Astarion realized that he should have known that his absence would have been noticed. Astarion picked the book up and made his way back to Tav . Astarion sat down and explained in a hush the mysterious package and the note addressed to them both.

Tav sat up and watched as Astarion opened the book. When he paused, she looked up to see he looked like a ghost. Somehow the pale elf had grown paler and had stopped all movement. Tav waved her hand in front of his face to a bid to bring him back to the Sword Coast, but it seemed for naught. Tav poked and messed with him a bit but it seemed that Astarion was suck in his own world. Tav was concerned at this point. Worried, Tav did the one thing that would get his attention. She got up and as quiet as possible made her way to the side where she kept a spare dagger in her bag. She came back to the bed and saw Astarion tentatively turn the page to read the back but she couldn’t figure out what he was looking at. Was it a spell that was cast on him? Tav took the blade and was going to slash the palm of her hand but thought better of it. She heard of people ruining the muscle doing so and never picking up a sword again. Instead, she drew the blade against her skin for a shallow cut on her left forearm. Thankfully, the blade was sharp so it didn’t really hurt, at least not compared to when Astarion feeds off her. The cut was shallow but bled excessively.

It took seconds for the vampire to snap out of whatever trance he was in and look at her and then down at her bleeding arm. He scowled first before giving in and taking the arm she held up to his lips. Astarion drank of her but shortly after pulled back and cleaned the wound. He gave her a minor health potion he stocked up on since the incident almost two months back to help seal the wound from his pack he had stashed on the side of the bed. Astarion turned to chastise her for doing something so stupid as luring and teasing a vampire with such a delectable offering, but Tav kissed him before he could utter a word. Dumbfounded, Astarion held his tongue a moment while Tav spoke.

“I was worried. You were so absorbed in whatever that book was that I wasn’t sure what was going on. I was scared, to be honest.” Tav honestly mentioned.

Astarion looked towards the book he had on the bed that was temporarily discarded in favor of blood a moment ago and then towards Tav. He reached for the book and held it out to Tav to see for herself. Tav opened the closed book and read the text that was written on the loose piece of paper. It mentioned congratulations and that although they couldn’t be there for his wedding day, Astarion was still their ‘brother’. Tav could tell this gift came from one of Astarion’s vampiric siblings, but why? Tav continued to read the note. It mentioned that they ‘knew’, but it didn’t say what they knew and that they had just the thing to help him.

Honestly, the letter made no sense to Tav and it raised more questions than answers. It was then that she noticed that the book was actually two books. One was rather small, so it kind of stuck to the back of the other.

Astarion was perplexed how any of his vampire brethren could sneak into his room without his notice or awaking. It concerned him greatly and that was what occupied his thoughts and made him zone out. He was really losing his touch and he couldn’t afford to let that happen! On the bright side, it seems he was right that his brethren were no threat to them or else they could have easily done something to them in the middle of the night while they were incapacitated. Astarion wasn’t sure how long that would last or how long that status quo would be in his favor.  

They both looked as Tav examined the books before them. One was a baby book for expecting parents and the other was a book of firsts. A book where you would record everything the baby does from their birth on so you would have memories and they could look back on. Astarion’s breath caught in his chest. They knew. They fucking knew! He knew it would be a matter of time, but there was no reason they should know right now. To a vampire, the change had started to become apparent in her blood because of her hormones. You could tell by smell or taste which is why it became such a struggle for Astarion to deny himself her sweet, sweet blood. What perplexed him was how they could find out. She wasn’t wounded near them, and the change was recent. So recent, in fact, that it only happened days ago. Astarion was feeling very uncomfortable with their living situation but there was no other place to go. Not till they dealt with the final battle. He wasn’t going to force her to rough it camping outside again when they would still have to remain in the city, anyways. The other places to lodge weren’t as nice, and were full because of the refuge crisis. Astarion was getting a headache. He knew that after everything was said and done, he was getting as far away from this cursed city as soon as possible. He died here, Cazador was here albeit dead, his house which stood as a living testament of the vampire overlooked the city, his brethren knew where to find him and so much more. Was it easy to feed in the city? Of course, but it would be just as easy in any other city. Assuming Tav was okay with this idea. He would have to broach the subject a little later after they figure out the current problem before them.

Tav was confused as well, and Astarion was quick to fill in the gaps with the blood and the scent/taste. It explained a few things to Tav and gave her some ideas for the weekend, but other than that, Tav was also confused how they knew about the baby. Tav told Astarion not to look a gift horse in the mouth, but he had concerns. In the end, Astarion and his bride tucked back into bed to whisper about it without waking the others, the books placed next to his backpack on the edge of the bed.

They spoke in hushed tones about possible scenarios and possibilities on how the vampire spawn figured out her condition and his involvement in her pregnancy. How did they know he agreed to be the father? They spoke about contingency plans in case they came after her or the child. Astarion knew full well that because of their adventure he was a lot stronger than before, and was not afraid for his own life. He also knew Tav could defend herself easily, in fact, she was stronger than he was in certain regards, but her condition did have some drawbacks. As the time neared towards birth, she would not be able to defend herself like normal, her inflated belly would get in the way and the cargo within could easily be forfeit if she was hurt too much. Astarion knew that after the events at Baldur’s Gate were satisfied one way or another, assuming they lived from the harrowing quest, that he would have to be her protector for a brief snippet of time. He found this oddly humorous, as Tav had promised after Cazador to be his protector. Astarion, at the time, mentioned not wanting to rely on her, but he appreciated the gesture all the same.

Astarion held on to her snugly, smelling the sweet smell of lavender in her hair from her earlier bath. Astarion noticed the others starting to wake and figured that, with the new information, they needed some changes to the wedding plans. Astarion kissed Tav’s forehead and murmured in her ear.

“If I ask and he agrees, how would you feel about having Wyll as security for our wedding? Just in case, of course”

Tav looked up at him and although she wished it didn’t come to this, she knew they may need someone to ensure everything went according to plan. She also knew their friends would be more than willing to help.

Once everyone was awake and alert, the others were apprised of the situation and Wyll enthusiastically agreed to be security for their wedding that afternoon. It made Tav feel guilty, but Wyll reminded her that he wanted to do this and that it was her special day. Tav tried to remain optimistic. In a few hours she would be Mrs. Ancunin, and she will have great time with her friends before retiring for the night with her new husband. A man who will fulfill her every need and desire with the chiseled body of a god. She smiled to herself. How was she this lucky? Sure, he had baggage and a shit ton of trauma, but then again, after everything they’ve been through, there was no way they would come out of this unscathed, and with his history, he had every right.  What mattered is that they loved each other and that was something that she didn’t doubt. Not after everything they had been through.

Astarion jarred her back to reality when he ushered her back to their private room none too gently but not enough to hurt either.

“What’s wrong?” Tav asked as Astarion looked worried,

“I need to leave for a bit. I need to eat, but I’m worried about…  I mean…”

Tav knew what he meant. He was worried about the other vampires.

“Are you worried about yourself? I mean you are a lot stronger than they ever…”

“No!” Astarion interrupted. “I’m concerned about you and the baby. If anything happened to you…” Astarion drew his forefinger to her cheek, gently running it across her cheek bone before leaning in to touch her lips with his at the briefest of moments in a chaste kiss before pulling back. It was if he reminded himself and threw on his usual facade, the mask he wore with others.

“You know I can die in childbirth right? You don’t have to be afraid. We have friends and can defend ourselves!” Tav rebutted. Astarion still was not satisfied because of her first statement. She could die in childbirth. It was a harsh truth that he was told back when she was initially examined but he didn’t want to believe it. He still didn’t. She was too strong, too precious to die in such a way. Astarion shook his head. This was something he would figure out if it happened. He refused to acknowledge that this was a possibility for her. He loved her too damn much, and today he was going to bond with her for life. No one was going to stop that. Astarion snarled at that thought, making Tav a little concerned.

Tav brought her hands up to his face and turned his face to look at her.

“Hey, Astarion?”

Astarion took a moment but left his own thoughts. He returned to her and without warning and without pause he scooped the woman up in his arms, his arms holding her up by her luscious ass. He sat down on the bed and claimed her lips. Tav had no problem reciprocating, but was more than a little confused. She suspected he was emotionally in turmoil and was acting out in a manner he knew best. It was like autopilot for him, a dance he was a master at. A distraction for him from whatever hurts him. Tav suspected he wasn’t even aware he was doing it. Tav could tell something was distressing the vampire. Tav pulled back and slid off of him, the absence bringing Astarion back to the real world fairly easily.

“Wh…what?” Astarion questioned.

“Talk to me. What’s wrong?” Tav pleaded.

Astarion frowned “I…I’m afraid of the day I will lose you. Which is completely unrealistic considering we are facing death each and every day on this adventure. It’s stupid, to be frank. I need to trust you. Believe in you like you believed in me. I don’t mean to worry you, my dear.”

Tav gave a sad frown. “It’s understandable to worry. Hells, we literally crossed a devil, fought a dead dragon, and defeated two of the three chosen…and that was in the recent past! Most adventures don’t put you in such situations.” Tav sat down on his lap again, looped her arms around his neck and kissed him. “You’ll never truly lose me though. Even if something happens…which I doubt.”

Astarion gave a small smile and kissed her back. There was a knock at the door and Tav got off of her soon to be husband apprehensively. Behind the door was Minsc, which surprised the couple!

“I was told to inform you two love birds that we need to get ready for your ceremony!”

Tav smiled and turned back to Astarion “I’ll see you later!” and turned to leave. Astarion stood up and grabbed her wrist before she left and yanked her back. Stumbling backwards, Tav landed against his chest. Astarion grasped her and helped stabilize her before turning her to look at her and hugging her tightly.

“Be safe.” Astarion whispered to her ear and released her.

Tav smiled to herself and muttered back for his ears only “I will.”

With that, Tav had left and Astarion closed the door on Minsc who wanted to help him. Astarion felt that if he needed help talking to a hamster, he would talk to him, but getting dressed? That was simple enough. First thing was first, he needed something to eat. Astarion knew it would take some time for her to get ready and he knew what time the wedding was to start so he snuck out of the tavern and went back to Rivington. There, he was able to find a few animals, a boar, and some squirrels. This was enough to satisfy him for now. Astarion snuck back in and quickly washed himself down to remove the blood and dirt from his skin. Astarion went to his dresser and even if the secret in the wardrobe was tempting to peek at, he didn’t. He figured he would let her keep her secrets and see what this weekend would bring.

Astarion looked at what Tav had bought him for his formal wear, grateful that she thought about his needs and bought him his outfit and considered his tastes. Astarion looked at the elegant red and black smooth attire before him and approved of the choice.It was a simple top but it was his tastes. It didn’t have unnecessary frills but it had a nice pattern in red against the dark background. The tunic had laces in the front that served only for decoration, it didn’t have any functional form. Astarion put the tunic on and the nice black slacks in the drawer that Tav had left him. There was a nice pair of shoes to accompany the outfit. His fiance really thought of everything! Astarion smirked. He was really lucky to have found her. Astarion put the full outfit on and wished he could look at himself in a mirror. He was sure he looked amazing as his fiance had great taste.

Astarion left the room and looked around and found Wyll. Wyll and the other men looked well dressed (though not as well dressed as himself) and they made their way to the venue, knowing that the women would come by a little later. He was aware of the superstition of seeing his bride before the wedding in the wedding dress and chuckled at it. He found it silly.

Astarion waited near the dragonborn officiating the ceremony and took in the view a short time later. The sun was high in the sky and he saw the open area with lush green grass and a variety of flowers. He made comments of displeasure in this particular place previously, but he had to admit the charm it could possess to some. What Astarion approved of the most was the fact that he was under the baking sun and feeling the rays of warmth heat up his cold skin.

Before he knew it, music was playing and he turned his attention to the entrance of the garden. Before him was a vision of a goddess. She wore a flowing black and red gown to compliment his own attire that seemed to glide as she walked down the aisle. The dress had a lower cut as the top of her breasts were visible and had slight lace and intricate string bondings. The lace and string enhanced her chest and collarbone which drew the vampire’s attention and made him inadvertently salivate at the thought of having her throat under his fangs. Her sweet and addictive blood was divine. Astarion watched as she made her way beside him and he looked on to see their traveling companions all watching them with care. Karlach looked exceptionally proud while Lae’zel looked bored, yet they all watched them and their union.

Astarion watched as Tav winked at him as the dragonborn began to the proceedings and started to speak about their commitments until death. It kept reminding Astarion about how fleeting mortality could be for Tav. Although he was slightly dejected, he wouldn’t show it. He wouldn’t allow it to get in the way during their ceremony and precious day. Jorath, the dragonborn officiating the union then motioned for them to speak their vows to each other. Internally Astarion cursed. He knew he forgot something! He was told about this from Tav some time ago but never got around to writing it. Being an ex-magistrate, he could wing this though. Astarion was nothing, if not able to entertain. Tav spoke first which thankfully afforded Astarion a few precious moments to compose himself.

Tav looked at him fondly. “When I met you, I didn’t know that I would care for you this deeply. I just thought you needed to be outside a bit more.” She chuckled. “But, as I grew to understand you, I also grew to care about you like no other. I found myself in love before I knew it. We’ve been through monster hunters to asshole Drow. We’ve gone through ridding yourself of the chains of your past, and now, we can start to explore what that means with your future…together. There is so much more I could speak of, but we don’t have all day.” Tav joked to the chuckles of the crowd

Astarion was happy she didn’t speak of more things as he held information close to his chest but he knew her and trusted her. He knew she wouldn’t say anything too revealing, who knew if shape changers were still about, for example.

Tav continued. “But I do want to say this. I love you, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you, no matter what may come in the future and what obstacles we face. I am yours.”

Astarion held his breath a moment at this admission and felt something possessive inside take over. He wanted to squirrel her away from others, but he resisted, not now. He would have the rest of her life with him, now was not the time for possessiveness or jealousy. It was then that he realized that all eyes were on him and it was his turn.

Astarion put on his usual facade and began to speak in seriousness. He would not ruin this special day on Tav.

“Ever since I met you, you’ve treated me with kindness, care, and dignity, even though I didn’t always afford you the same. In the beginning, I saw you as a means to the end, but as our party traveled and I got to know you…as we got to know each other more, I started to realize how special you really are.” Astarion longed to touched her at this moment in a tender form of appreciation but he kept his hands by his side as he gave a salacious smile that only she could see instead. Her smile widened as she tried to stifle her giggle but it was partly unsuccessful. The audience was unaware as to what she found humorous. Astarion grinned but continued where he left off. “For someone like me…with what you know, you gave me a priceless gift that I can never repay. I have been seen by you and heard. I can say for the first time I am safe and that is because of you. You have unmatched beauty, a radiant soul that threatens to scorch all in its path and a personality that enraptures all. You are the most precious person to me and I will do anything to protect and keep you safe. I love you, and would be honored to have you by my side for as long as possible, until death comes knocking.” Astarion purposely worded the end of his vows the way he did because he was still hopeful that Tav would choose to live with him for all time, but there still stood the chance of they could meet their death before then considering their mission. Tav beamed at him after his words while Astarion felt slightly embarrassed. Jorath looked down at Astarion and asked for the rings which got Astarion out of his embarrassment pretty fast when he remembered his surprise. Astarion smiled broadly, much to the unease and fear of the audience, aka his friends who knew this to be an unknown sight. They worried what was about to happen as Astarion whistled and all heads turned to look at the beginning of the aisle. There was the owlbear cub (affectionately known to Tav and the group as Fluff) and Scratch walking at a nice pace side by side down the aisle. Tav couldn’t help but full on laugh at the sight as Scratch and the owlbear cub were both wearing some sort of attire which made them look adorable. Scratch had on a mini tux on the front of his body and Tav was unsure how he was dressed or where they found such an outfit, while the owlbear cub had a bow tie and a hat tied on. They looked both hilarious and very cute. When the pair of friends made it to the front, they both held on to a box in their mouths that contained a ring. One for her and one for him. Tav broke in her stance to give plenty of attention and petting to the beautiful ring bearers, the owlbear cub seeming to enjoy the attention a bit more than Scratch who wanted to play. After retrieving the rings, Astarion sent them to sit with the others, but instead they found a nice mud pit on the side and they promptly went to play in it, away from the ceremony but close enough they could be kept an eye on. Tav shook her head but was still laughing when she turned her attention to Astarion. Jorath had instructed them to put the rings on. It was then that Astarion opened the box up for her ring.

Tav couldn’t see the ring right away once the box was opened, as Astarion’s hands obscured the view. Before putting it on her finger, he paused and spoke.

“You need to know a few things about this ring before you put it on.”

Tav was confused but smiled, she was sure she would understand and love whatever it was he was going to say. She knew him by now and he has been attentive and caring the entire time. Astarion continued when there was no objections.  Astarion held the ring out to her and she gasped. It was beyond beautiful.

It look elegant with a silver band, etching in the middle she couldn’t readily make out and the out side had a gem affix that looked like a moonlit night. It literally looked like a black gem holding a moon inside as it held a sliver of white. It was gorgeous, but knowing Astarion, there was more to it than being pretty.

“You know my past and what I was forced to do,” Astarion dare not explain deeper with outside ears and Jorath nearby “Well, to spare you the details…this was from that time. I went to pawn the ring but found out it’s true value was so much that I couldn’t simply pawn the item. No vendor would have enough. As I looked into the history of it, I found out it had more than that. The history involving something called Shadowweavers,” Astarion nervously chuckled. “It’s a curious tale I’ll tell you one day, but for now,” Astarion took a deep breath ”It also can render the user invisible for an hour. Anyway, What I am trying to say is that this ring has a few things to it you should know. By accepting this ring, you’re accepting my past as well as the future we have.”

“Tav leaned forward and since Astarion was standing to explain this situation at this point, she hugged him. Astarion was skeptical at first but hugged her back tightly. Once they separated, she held her finger out, but before she had the ring, he figured he should tell her about the few other changes he did.

“I also made a few modifications. There is an engraving on it for your eyes only.” Astarion whispered the last line. “It has an enchantment called Telepathic Bond on it which lets you have a mental link with up to eight people in range. I figured it would be useful once we lose the parasite and maybe for us to communicate privately. Both rings have it. Only your ring has the invisibility though. I…I hope this wasn’t overkill…”

Tav giggled. ��Of course it isn’t! Just put it on my finger already so we can get to the kissing part.” Tav laughed and smiled. Astarion felt the tension erase and he smiled once more. He placed the ring slowly on her finger and she slid his on. It wasn’t long before Jorath called for the couple to kiss and that they were now, finally, man and wife.

They were married.

Finally!

Tav was surprisingly the aggressor in the kiss and used her hand to pull Astarion in close so she could claim his lips. Astarion thought it would be a chaste kiss and they would devour each other in private, but apparently Tav had other ideas. Astarion closed his eyes and leaned in but was surprised when Tav slipped her tongue against his. In his surprise he opened his mouth further for her to explore. Of course Astarion had kissed her many times before and just went with it. He wasn’t a fan of public displays like this. Of course a chaste kiss here or there was fine but deeply kissing each other in front of others was close to an invisible boundary for him. It was close but not over that boundary. It was also his wedding day. He would give her the world right now and if that meant sharing a form of intimacy in front of others then they were getting a showing…

Astarion brought his hands up, one on the back of her head and the other above the rise of her backside on her lower back but not touching anything indecent. Tav leaned in and almost moaned into him as she remembered where they were. Astarion smiled and took her in more deeply, he chased her tongue as he kissed her until he pulled back, Tav still leaning forward wanting more but Astarion leaned his forehead against hers as she panted for air.

“We’ll have plenty of time for that later, my dear. I have many things to teach you. Their ear plugs wont be enough, I have to fear.” Astarion teased.

Tav brought her hands up his hard cold chest, closed her eyes one moment and then commented.

“I love you so much.”

Although with the ring on, he could now tell that she was worried about something. As the party started to disburse to the Elfsong for the party, the newly married couple hung back and walked at the end of the troupe to speak.

“You know I can tell now when you’re worried about something,” Astarion questioned, concerned about what was bothering her. “It’s our wedding day, you should be the happiest woman alive.” Astarion chuckled considering he was in fact dead and just got hitched.

“It’s silly.” Tav tried to hide her concern as she started to walk briskly to the others but Astarion caught her around the middle and brought her back.

“If you can’t talk to me, then who can you speak to?” Astarion almost pleaded.

“Look, it’s…I feel really guilty.”

Astarion was dumbfounded for a moment. “What? Why?”

“Because of all the sex. That’s all I’ve been forcing you to do because I want it.” Tav dropped her head. Her confession barely more than a whisper. Thankfully, Astarion had heightened hearing. 

Astarion gave a small smile, looked around and saw a granite bench. He whisked her away to the bench and continued the conversation.

“Let me clear this up,” Astarion gently held Tav’s head up to meet his gaze as she previously was staring intently at the ground. “ Before fighting Cazador? Yes, I may have had an issue. Everything felt tainted to have any form of intimacy. But as time went on, as our bond strengthened, things changed. After we defeated Cazador, do you know what became different? When I took you to the graveyard, I wasn’t just declaring my love for you and intent. Nor did I even intend for a night of passion on my grave site,” Astarion laughed. “But I wanted…no, I needed to feel alive again. You see, I’ve been afraid and enslaved for so long I don’t even remember what it is like to be free and do what we are doing now, but I feel safe and free with you to learn, to try. Do I feel like I’m doing the same song and dance…a performance like before? Rarely, but even then you snap me out of it and your actions, words and support make things so different. Everything is new again. I don’t want to remain dead. I don’t want to stay scared or enslaved. I don’t feel tainted anymore. I feel like…I’m finding who I am again. Do you remember during our times of passion, do you remember me disassociating?”

Tav thought for a moment and shook her head ‘no’.

“Then I was okay with it. If there is ever a time I am not, I will tell you. I mentioned before about how key communication is with a relationship, remember? I want to make love to you. I want to show you with my body how much you mean to me. My body has been used and not my own for so long. Now that it is mine again, I decide how it is used and I want to use it with you. Let me make this clear, I want to fuck you senseless this weekend of my own accord.” Tav blushed but it didn’t last as Astarion leaned in for a kiss. She happily reciprocated, wishing they didnt have to attend a party and could be in the privacy of their room already, if anything so she could hide this wonderful soul from the world and snuggle with him as he battles his demons. She wished she could help him kill the demons in his past and his trauma like they could with Cazador, with a sharp knife or pointed stick, but unfortunately they could not. Tav would support him though through anything. She loved him, and nothing would change that.

“You sure? All those times. I didn’t force sex on you?” Tav still felt guilty considering how selfish she was acting knowing his past. She felt like she pressured him but Astarion was quick to shut this down and reply.

“Darling, I wanted you. Gods, I still want you. It’s impossible to get bored of all that.” Astarion made a crude motion with his hand to insinuate her body.

Tav laughed, feeling like a weight was lifted off her shoulders. Tav noticed Astarion was still with her in the present and wasn’t falling back into his old ways like when they first met, smiled and pushed Astarion back a bit with her hand on his chest so she could get up from the bench. She did so and the pair were able to make it to their party at the Elfsong.

Once they got there, they found the party in full swing and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves with a tankard in hand! Tav wished she could drink, but she couldn’t, and it made her a little dejected. Sensing this, Astarion retrieved some of his private stock of wine and gave her a very small glass.

“I can’t have this. The baby…” Tav mentioned in a quick whisper.

“It is perfectly safe to consume small amounts of wine once in a while when pregnant, my dear. I even got you a good vintage. Sadly, you can’t sample much, but you can join us, my love.” Astarion filled his glass with some of his private stock and went to the lengths to hide it very well so no one else could find it.

“How do you know this?”

“I’ve been checking up on this, my dear, since it has been frequently been coming up. You don’t have to believe me, of course, you can just as much drink water this afternoon instead.”

Tav looked at the contents in the glass and took a slight sip. The taste was sinful, and she loved it! Astarion smiled at the sight. Before long the couple enjoyed dancing with each other, something Astarion was not a fan of but did so to humor his wife.

Wow… Wife. He could call her his wife now. Astarion had a wide grin at this thought.

The party went on for hours as their party got noticeably drunk...well…all except Wyll, who took his role as security very seriously. Even when prompted to enjoy himself with the rest of them by Astarion and Tav, he refused. At least they had one person who wasn’t blackout drunk in case anything should happen. Lae’zel surprisingly could hold her liquor too or maybe it had something to do with her race, Astarion wasn’t sure. The couple stayed sober though, mostly because Tav could barely drink and Astarion wanted to be sober for tonight’s tantalizing events. He had an idea what he wanted to do to Tav first, he could see her fidgeting in her seat at times just waiting for later. Thanks to the rings, he could tell she was yearning for his touch. He planned to give her that and more. Astarion smiled, maybe he could mess with his new wife though and send her some of ideas he had in store for her. He barely scratched the surface in his thoughts, merely thinking of a few different positions when he noticed the blush overtake her cheeks and her legs clench together. Astarion smirked and noted the time was near nine in the night. It was late enough that they could retire and a good excuse to give his new wife the relief she deserves.

Astarion stood up from his chair and went to Tav’s chair, there he reached out and gracefully took her hand, signaling her to come with him. Tav smiled and stood up, Astarion could smell her desire. How long was she wanting him? Astarion grinned, that was okay, because for the next three days he would make sure to attend every need she could have and then some. As Astarion walked toward the stairs, he sought out Wyll and informed him that they were retiring for the night, and at that point, only to contact them for emergencies. Wyll congratulated them once again, and Astarion turned, picked up Tav who was surprised, and carried her to their room.

Astarion put her down nicely on their bed when they made it upstairs, turned, and locked the door.

NOTE: The next few chapters are smut heavy due to the honeymoon segment

[maithefluffychicken]

Astarion/Tav, but mostly is just romance headcanons for our beloved companions.

Shadowheart is right - no matter how ominous her name -, thinking about the tadpole non-stop is not going to make it disappear from their brains. In this... Astarion wants to say night, but it's always night in the Underdark, so he can't really know if it's night time or if the sun he so misses is shining above them all. Anyway, right now they're at their camp, covered by giant, luminiscent mushrooms of any kind, the fire crackling cozily in front of them.

They all are talking about their love life, or the lack of it, and Astarion can't help but to notice a pattern. As if an invisible allmighty hand had chose the seven most miserable people in all Faerun.

Karlach, hasn't been with anyone in years, because of her flaming affliction. She says that before Zariel, she doesn't remember falling in love with anybody, but she's a tactile tiefling and she misses the soft touch of another being.

Shadowheart says that she's been devoted to Shar, the Dark Goddess, since she was a kid, and that if she ever loved someone, she allowed them to erase her memory.

Lae'zel is Astarion's favorite. The gith is bold and doesn't know taboo, does she? She talks about sex freely and without shame. She thinks sex is a way to let out some steam and energy, also a wonderful way to claim someone if you develop romantic feelings. Lae'zel knows what she wants and how she wants it, and calls them all immature when they blush. Astarion laughs delighted with Lae'zel's sexy stories.

They all are tired of hear about Gale's torrid romance with Mystra. The man beds a literal Goddess and is punished at the end, another reason why Astarion would never trust in any deity.

Halsin is... wild. Feral. Animalistic. Halsin wins them all in sex stories. Astarion feels a weird sting in his guts when Tav laughs and blushed at Halsin's anecdotes as a bear. Astarion knows it's not jealousy, he has never been jealous. It's fear. But the vampire stores that thought to examine it later.

Then there's Wyll... Gods above, Wyll have been training non-stop to become the perfect Prince Charming, hasn't he? Wyll claims that a gentleman doesn't kiss and tell. Astarion is fully convinced the man is reserving himself until being married. Nothing wrong with that! Just... a handsome boy like Wyll could have anyone. Astarion must admit - and he does admit - that Wyll could have been such a delicious morsel if... Well.

Tav.

Tav, who has been slowly working their way into Astarion's cold, dead heart. Tav, who laughs when Gale asks them about their love stories. Tav, who has had a childhood crush, a few failed relationships, and some affairs here and there during their adventures, but nothing too important to talk about it.

Astarion knows he's doomed when Tav smiles at Astarion, their cheeks flushed, maybe because of the conversation or maybe it's the fire heating their cheeks.

Karlach is the one who bumps Astarion's shoulders and asks him to share his torrid, debauched sexy anecdotes. Astarion's stomach churns, and he'll puke if he could. He knew, at the start of the conversation, that they'll ask him too.

Astarion puts on his well practiced facade and laughs it off, waving his hand elegantly and joking vaguely about how Baldur's Gate was full of delectable young men and women to spend the nights with. He thinks about them all, every day, and has to resist the impulse to- well. He keeps his well practiced charm, but something in his face must show his inner turmoil, because Tav interrupts him and redirects the conversation to another matter.

Astarion looks at Tav, grateful for once. Tav simply smiles at him, as if just as easy, and lets Gale to start rambling about something Astarion is not even listening. Maybe it is easy, for Tav at least. Astarion doesn't want to hope, nothing in his life is easy.

Later, in his bedroll, looking at the stars, Astarion answers Karlach's question to himself, his mind whirling with the realization-

If he fell in love while under Cazador's influence, he can't really know, he wasn't himself, he hasn't been himself for two hundred years. But Astarion has been in love, when he was young. He never knew how to reciprocate, too focused in other things.

Astarion has been in love before, but now he's sure he loves Tav. Astarion is free for now, and he knows he has to do something about that bright, overwhelming love he feels for Tav.

[our-reb00t-boi]

What would happen if Astarion met the reboot twins? 😍😁😂

Hello!! Apologies, late reply but this is interesting!

Idk much of Baldur's Gay--- I mean Baldur's Gate but all the ones I saw are from people shipping and

All I "know" of the game is it's a AAA high fantasy dating simulator adventure game.

And all I know about Astarion is that he's a more flowery flamboyant version of V from dmc 5 in terms of being a fanged flowery goth man

Sorry V no hard feelings

You guys can correct me about the game. I don't have this🙏😂

Astarion to Dante:

I think at 1st they won't go well together, as friends or as dates. I think the differences in how they approach people is a river that the other may not be able to cross.

I think Dante finds Astarion's flamboyant nature to be annoying but he quietly just deals with it. He also observes a lot and may find Astarion suspicious.

Astarion is a cunning man and Dante can smell that from a mile away. He has trust issues and the 2 of them would've likely tried to attack the other, if Dante was the one who makes a spicy rebuttal or if Astarion was tricking or gaslighting Dante (to bite his skin lmaoo)

The only way they'd probably bond over something is a mutual agreement on revenge. And also something at least utilitarian/useful to benefit one another besides a shared goal.

Another thing that could make them get together in a more intimate level is that Astarion can acknowledge Dante's sexuality. Anyone reading this can interpret this anyway they can. But I believe both Astarion and Dante are hedonistic, and physical desires are itches they want scratching. And Astarion could possibly do something about that young sex drive Dante has. And I think Dante's not off about how anything goes, if the both of them play their cards right. Or with lots of pizza and booze.

Astarion to Vergil:

This one gets complicated, or specifically their particular psychological traits (and issues) are gonna come into play with these 2.

I think at first everything looks smooth at first glance. They have a mutual understanding of one another and respect one another. You almost don't hear anything bad about how the other thinks on the other. They're both very classy people, they're into playing with semantics and probably acknowledge the other for their tastes.

But even them being acquaintance is very surface level. Vergil behind the scenes is secretly working on making background checks about Astarion, his life, his former relationships, his stats, etc. Vergil is careful about him, but he doesn't show how he's skeptical about this elf-vampire.

Astarion on the other hand has always been dry about their mutual-ness, if that's a word. He's entertained by this young genius with high standards and he gets a kick out of trying to break Vergil's cool sometimes, especially if Astarion can try to go skin deep (or literally try to sink his fangs)

I think their bond is going to be very complicated. Astarion knows Vergil's type: he has a keenness for control and not wanting to submit to anything. And Vergil knows that Astarion is the type who will do something unpredictable when backed against the corner.

Perhaps Astarion can roleplay around and make Vergil feel like the boss of him as a one time only thing, if you catch my drift. Vergil, on the other hand, doesn't mind playing and learning some secret tricks so long as Vergil is getting some benefits. But after that, they're relationship remains in this ice-cold social game of chess, where they appear like everything is hunky dory.

[baldurs-gate-simp]

Laila and Gale Headcanons

There's a lot, so I'm putting it under

Gale’s dad left when he was extremely little. He barely remembers him so he doesn’t really bring him up often. Morena knows not to mention him as it makes them both upset. 

Laila was abandoned at the steps of Baldur’s Gate orphanage when she was a newborn. All that’s left with her is the blanket she was swaddled in and a note that stated her name, birth date, and some health information. 

Laila really never felt like she belonged until after meeting her other nautiloid companions. They’re more family than anyone. 

Laila and Gale get married about eight months after the defeat of the mind flayers. Of course all the companions come with some of Gale’s family. However, Laila’s side is empty. The others let her know though that no matter what, they’re there for her.  

Laila and Astarion are really close. She feels a sense of understanding, both feeling the need to fend for themselves, not depending on others. 

While Gale and Astarion don’t always see eye to eye, they tolerate each other for Laila. They do have a general understanding that the other person makes Laila happy and her happiness is all that matters. 

Gale loves when Laila runs her hands through his hair, it calms him down like nothing else. He also loves shoulder kisses, they’re his weakness. 

When Laila is sick with colds, Gale has a routine. He makes her chamomile tea in bed, tucks her in a billion blankets, and makes her favorite: butternut squash soup. 

Speaking of cooking, Gale literally is the best cook. Laila knows how to cook and she does well, but if she makes something and then Gale makes it, Gale’s always tastes so much better. He jokes it’s the love he puts into it. Really it’s just some spices

Laila is the literal only reason Gale gets up in the morning some days, especially when he still has the orb. He realizes how lucky he got with her and is almost amazed that she stuck by him through having an orb in his chest. 

The day he meets with Mystra about the crown, Laila is a literal wreck. He leaves and she is in shambles Astarion ends up coming over to alleviate her troubles by just talking her off a cliff. When Gale gets home and tells her it’s gone, it’s a cry for all. Even Astarion is a bit tears eyed seeing them. 

Gale sells the tower because he wants to start fresh after the orb is gone. They decide on a little cottage with a pond and a huge garden. 

Astarion comes to see them one day and explains that he hates being in Baldur’s Gate due to remembering his trauma and wants to start fresh somewhere else, so he begins to stay with them while he’s looking for a new place to call home. 

Gale is a girl dad all the way. Laila and him end up having three girls: Theodosia, Gwendolyn, and Josephine. They love uncle Astarion to bits. Astarion jokes they’re the only kids he can tolerate. 

Astarion has this unbreakable bond with the girls that no one understands. He teaches them how to shoot arrows, how to sew, and so much more. Some good and some bad things. 

Gwendolyn and Josephine took a while to realize he was a vampire, but Theodosia knew right away, and was far from afraid and Astarion was shocked about this. She just babbles and reaches up for him and this is when he realizes every kid is bad except this one. This one’s okay. 

When Laila and Gale are expecting Dosia, a letter shows up at their house from the orphanage stating a man came in asking about her and that a letter was dropped off by him. The man is Laila’s father, unbeknownst to her. 

She writes to him and they decide to meet up at the market. Gale comes with for safety purposes. What if the guy is a murderer? 

When Hale, Laila’s dad sees her, he is in awe but he states something that would really change her life. He states, “I never stopped looking. I knew I would find you.” 

Laila, on that day, gains a family she always wanted. She gains her father, Hale, her stepmom, Galadriel, a half sister named Maertisa, and a half brother named Finley.

Astarion stays in Waterdeep, finding a palace of his own. It’s not too far from Gale and Laila, and he uses this as an excuse to come see his nieces. 

Astarion never pictured kids in his life, but as an uncle he finds purpose. He teaches the girls all types of things. 

[goldenhallas]

20 TAV/OC QUESTIONS

I saw saw @galesdevoteewife's post about her Tav & decided I wanted to do it too :) I'm tagging everyone who wants to do this & pls tag me if you do, I love seeing people's Tavs! <3

Senna, my scrunkly half wood elf ranger/druid/favoured of mielikki blorbo who was quite literally raised by wolves :) <3

I. what do they smell like at their freshest? (and/or after a tenday. your choice)

She generally smells like wolf fur, fresh earth, herbs and Felsul flower oil when she can make or buy it (Felsul are common in the Cloakwood where she grew up but she can't always find them while on the road).

II. what would their blood taste like to vampires?

Crisp, a little sweet, and a little tart, like an apple.

III. how would they kiss their LI?

Sen doesn't do anything by halves; she kisses passionately, fiercely, with wild abandon. She doesn't hold anything back and gives all of herself when she loves someone.

IV. how do they sleep with their LI (what position, does one steal the blankets, is one too hot/cold, etc)?

She loves being warm and cosy and cuddling. Without Gale she always sleeps snuggled up with her wolf, Fey, but when she sleeps with Gale it's with her face nuzzled into the crook of his shoulder, his arms wrapped around her and their legs tangled together, or they switch between being the big spoon or little spoon depending on the night/what they feel like.

And Fey is still included of course! If she's sleeping facing Gale, her wolf sleeps at her back. If she's sleeping with her back against Gale, she's cuddling Fey and her face is snuggled into her fur <3

V. what does their tent area look like? where do they prefer to pitch their tent (next to water, covered on three sides, etc)?

Her tent is a simple muted green, made to blend in with the forest. Inside she has a raggedy patchwork blanket, a bedroll, an old velvet pillow for Fey, a small wooden box of needle and thread for patching up her clothes, some ink pots, quills and a stack of journals. Outside she has a few small plant pots where she grows herbs and tea leaves and whatever weed she smokes in her dad's old pipe lol

VI. if they had a set of dnd dice, what would they look like?

These Feywild dice I found on the nexus (they're what I use in game)

VII. do they collect anything (gems, bottles, keys, etc)?

She collects random things that catch her eye like rocks, gems and feathers, as well as herbs, and she's also very sentimental so if anyone gives her anything, she keeps it (like the story Mirkon wrote her after she saved him, for example). When she gets into a relationship with Gale she starts collecting recipes to cook with him, plus all the poetry he writes for her, as well as poetry she comes across that she thinks he'll like (she doesn't write poetry herself).

VIII. if either, are they part of the astarion/gale book club (magic & literature) or the wyll/shadowheart book club (trashy romance novels)?

She's part of the Astarion/Gale book club. She loves books on flora and fauna, and she's curating her own florilegium with descriptions and illustrations of all the herbs, plants, flowers and animals she comes across on her travels.

IX. if they had to be put in a “get along shirt” with a companion, who would it be?

Oh it'd be Lae'zel for sure. They're both very headstrong and confident and think their way is the right way, so in the beginning they butt heads and challenge each other a lot. Each grows to respect the other for their determination and strength over time, and they end up forming a strong bond because of it.

Woe be upon ye who tries to shove them into that shirt though, you'll end up on the wrong end of a Gith sword AND stuck with a hide full of arrows.

X. do they prefer speak with dead or speak with animals?

She only uses speak with animals, Gale uses speak with dead.

XI. what are their thoughts on clowns?

She's never seen one until the Circus of the Last Days, and she's not at all interested in them/doesn't really get it. She just does one of her little head tilts and looks at them like... hmm...what odd people...and then gets distracted by the dryad, who she absolutely moons over.

XII. their companions are gossiping about them behind their back! who is it and what are they saying?

It's probably Astarion and Shadowheart, and they're probably either complaining about how much of an annoyingly cheery, energetic morning person she is, or mocking her obvious lovesickness over Gale.

XIII. what makes them laugh? what does their laugh sound like?

Wolf antics, Gale's complaints whenever they have to sneak, Gale's comments while on the battlefield, Gale in general (their senses of humour are well aligned), Astarion's histrionics, Astarion and Shadowheart's snarky conversations, Karlach's jokes, Wyll's utter intolerance for poorly performed music, Lae'zel's mispronunciation of common words.

She laughs heartily, warmly, and without restraint - pretty much the way she does everything.

XIV. do they have any inside jokes among their companions?

She's not much of a "hey wanna hear this joke" kind of person, but she undoubtedly has things that are uniquely funny to her and her companions based on the experiences they had together, as you do when you spend a lot of time / go through a lot with people. Like, "Hey, remember that time..."

XV. what’s the description of their camp clothes in the inventory menu?

Her dress: a lovely dress made of a soft, well-worn green cloth, with flowers stitched into the bodice and an intricate woven belt around the waist (it doesn't have a description so I wrote this one).

Her boots: made of intertwining branches that wrap around the foot like nature's embrace.

XVI. what’s the description of their underwear in the inventory menu?

Again it doesn't have a description, but I imagine it'd say something like "Plain, simple cotton undergarments".

XVII. how do they celebrate their birthday?

She doesn't know when it is, so she celebrates the day her dad adopted her instead, which was Ches 3. She spends the day gathering berries and baking a pie with them, as that's what her dad used to do for her every year.

XVIII. what modern day tv show would they binge over a weekend? do they get their LI to watch with them?

She probably wouldn't watch TV much, but I think she'd enjoy nature documentaries, and she'd get Gale to watch with her and then blab random facts at him the whole time.

XIX. do you have a playlist for your tav? if so, what’s the title + description?

I'm in the middle of working on one, the title of and first song on it is Raised by Wolves by The Interrupters, and sums Senna up perfectly: My teeth got sharper, my skin got tough So I forgive you for your giving up For your giving up It doesn't matter, my life was shattered And my heart's got holes You left a child out in the wild And I was raised by wolves I was raised by wolves, ah-ooh I was raised by wolves, ah-ooh

Yeah, when you left and said goodbye Under the moonlight, we had to learn to stay alive In the wild

XX. if you were to try pickpocketing them, what would they be carrying?

In her pockets she just carries some coins and hair ties, and in her backpack she carries her current leatherbound journal, a pot of ink, a couple quills, a folded piece of parchment that has been read many times (it's her favourite poem Gale wrote for her), maps, some healing potions, a satchel of herbs and other alchemy ingredients, trap disarming tools, travel rations (including a wedge of cheese with a big bite taken out of it), a waterskin, and a mess kit.