#cozy up: ascended astarion

[astarioffsimpmain]

Cozy Up with: Ascended Astarion

[Autumn Photography by: coldoctober]

[Ascendant Photography by: @brabblesblog]

Author's Note:

This week's Cozy Up is inspired by "Whither is thy beloved gone?" and its sequels by @brabblesblog! Her Ascended Astarion is definitely my favorite rendition of him, and it was her series that inspired me to give the Ascendant a chance. So that version of him is written here! So thank you for the inspiration, Ban! It got just a liiiittle horny. I promise I tried to reign him in.

“Darling,” he murmured softly against the shell of your ear. You gasped quietly, every movement, every touch, every sound a new sensation. The silk blindfold over your eyes was caressed by a skilled finger, the lids of your eyes outlined tenderly before the faint pressure disappeared. “Do you know where we are?” His voice lilted in your ear and you smiled. This was a new game he liked to play: take away a sense and have you guess something. 

You tuned in to the senses you still had, the vampiric blood in you pumping more fervently as you honed your focus in on your surroundings. Rustling; clothes? No. People? No… leaves. Yes. Then you heard them: crickets in the distance, chirping over the palace wall. Yet, you stood on concrete. The breeze picked up ever so slightly and brushed the gauzy sleeve of your gown against your skin, so soft that it tickled. Were you in the greenhouse? No, there would be servants still there at this hour. Save for the sounds of nature and your lover's breath in your ear, it was silent. 

You smiled again and turned to face him. “The balcony of the garden,” you said, and heard his chuckle before you felt nimble fingers removing the blindfold. As the fabric fell away, he came into your view; your magnifiscentlove, grinning down at you. 

“Very good, my love. You're getting better. You'll have masterful control of those lovely powers of yours in no time at all.” He quirked an eyebrow in amusement and you laughed in return. 

“So, why are we here, Astarion?” Your gaze swept the garden below, your discerning eyes not catching onto his plans just yet. 

“Well, my sweet, come and see.” With this, he turned from you and made his way to the grand staircase that would spiral down onto the garden path below. He turned halfway back to you with expectation and you stepped up even with him. He held out his hand, and you took it, the warmth of his soft skin easing the chill of yours. He guided you down the steps with all the grace of a perfect gentleman and once you reached the bottom, he twirled you around before pulling you under his arm and turning your chin in the direction of his secret. 

You gasped again, your surprise etched into every feature. “Astarion,” you breathed. “It's beautiful!” You felt him straighten up beside you and knew he was positively preening. Before you was a host of flickering lights under a canopy of leaves and branches, with a small table and two chairs pulled up on one side. There was a feast laid out for two places, yours of which you knew had been cooked with the freshest blood possible; Astarion never allowed any less. 

“Our anniversary is soon,” he whispered in your ear, placing tender kisses along the shell and sending shivers down your spine. 

“It’s a month away, my love.” you chuckled.

“All the more reason to begin the celebration now,” he replied, his lips continuing to make a path down your neck, paying special attention to your sensitive bite marks. You sighed and gave him better access, expecting more, but all at once, his warm lips were gone and you were left in suspense. You huffed and he chuckled. “Come, darling, our dinner is getting cold.” He took your hand once more and let you to your chair, which he pulled out for you with a flourish. You smiled and sat, watching his graceful movements as he took his place next to you. “To us, and our eternal love and glory.” He raised his goblet towards you and you returned the gesture.

“To us, and to a love that will never die.” You gently clanked your goblet against his and took a sip of the rich red blood. “Mmm, I know this taste,” you hummed, taking another sip to swirl on your tongue. You shot a bemused glance up at your husband, whose grin could rival the Chessire cat’s. 

“Oh?” was his only response.

“Mhm. I usually procure it more��� intimately,” you teased, raising your lover's free hand to kiss the tip of each finger.

“Well, I always have more to spare,” he murmured, growing close enough to kiss the tip of your nose. 

“Mm, I thought dinner would grow cold,” you said, pulling back and turning your attention to the delicious food in front of you. Only Astarion could somehow manage to find a way to make real food enjoyable to your vampiric palette again. 

“Ah, right you are, my sweet,” he agreed smoothly. But you felt his fingers ghosting along your thigh as you both continued your meal. 

“So my husband can still focus on more than one thing at a time,” you chortled quietly, satisfaction blooming in your stomach when those nimble digits wrapped around your upper thigh in warning.

“I can, my love, shall I remind you just how proficient I am at it?” 

“Hmm…” you pondered, taking a couple more bites of juicy meat. “Can anyone hear us out here?”

Astarion chuckled dangerously, his hand sliding further up your thigh. “I can make certain they do.” 

“My love, I would expect nothing less.”

~

fin

[plethora-of-imagines]

Soft Yandere Ascended Astarion Headcannons

I’ve decided to make some Ascended Astarion headcannons as if he was a soft yandere once he ascended so they are a little ooc. Just dipping my toe into writing for BG3

You did such a wonderful job, leading the party all that time. But now that your adventure is over it's time for Astarion to take charge. “You were so strong for us, love. Now let me spoil you and do all the hard work. I don’t want my treasure to worry their pretty little head over anything!”

He doesn't want you to have to lift a finger for anything beyond simple pleasures. He lavishes you with affection, his beloved treasure. 

He helps to bath and dress you as often as he can. He takes very good care of what is his, as evident from his 200 year old clothing still in decent condition. So he does quite enjoy taking care of you.

While he had teased about having you naked on his lap for everyone to see, he's possessive. Only the maids that help to dress you when he cannot are allowed to see you bare. Anyone else loses an eye for daring to look at what is his.

He dresses you in silk. Covered in jewels. He even spends his precious time embroidering some of your clothes for you.

He embroiders your smallclothes to say "Astarion's treasure, keep out or lose a hand!" It's only slightly a joke, anyone who dares to touch you inappropriately does tend to lose a hand.

He is very strict about your health. When it's time for you to eat or sleep, you will be eating or sleeping. If he has to compel you to do so, he will. “Now, now my pet- no pouting. You need your rest, even if I have to swaddle you up in all those cozy furs over there.”

Getting so much as a paper cut triggers his need to protect you. He doesn’t let you so much as turn a page or open a letter for a week after such an injury.

He's so overprotective that he even creates several spawn whose only job is to keep you safe.  If they fail to keep you safe or even dare to express a disdain for you, his precious consort, his beloved spawn- he kills them to make an example of them. To remind the others that you are the only one that is indispensable to him.

You never have to find your own meals, Astarion hunts for you. Presenting you with blood whenever you could possibly have even the smallest of peckish feelings. He said that being his spawn would be different for you, and it is. Instead of serving him, he could be seen as serving you. Anything you want, you get. Within reason, if you want to leave him or become a true vampire those are not reasonable desires.

[starryjuicebox]

Pull My Strings

Pairing: (Soft) Ascended!Astarion x F!Reader Word Count: 2.1k Warning: 18+, Explicit. PiV. Creampie. Fluff and smut.

Summary: A special day in your life with Astarion.

Another day in paradise—the sun kisses your pale skin as it greets the world in a dazzling hello. Beside you, your lover stirs, opening a bleary crimson eye. “Good morning, darling.” 

You run a hand through his soft white curls, laughing a little. “Good morning, sleepyhead.” 

While Astarion didn’t really “sleep”, over the many years you had been together, he seemed to have grown more relaxed in his trances with you by his side. 

Unlike you, he was still very much not a morning person; evidenced by his burrowing back underneath the cozy covers of your shared bed. You cuddle up to him, frigid skin absorbing the warmth from his body. Long since used to this behavior (though he had nearly jumped out of his own skin the first time you snuggled after his ascension), he wraps his arms around you and rests his chin on the top of your head. 

“It’s a special day today,” you tell him excitedly. 

He merely hums in response, stroking your hair. “Is that so? And what’s so special about today?” 

The nerve! How could he have forgotten? You stare at him, mouth open, before turning away. The two of you had lived together for so long, why had he forgotten this year? Throughout the millennia that you and Astarion had lived in Baldur’s Gate, you had witnessed the rapid advancement of technology and society. The world around you changed so much, but every year on this day, he always had something special planned just for you. 

Astarion’s hands come to rest on your hips, before pulling you flush against him. You can feel the hard outline of his length pressing into your clothed core. “My love, what’s gotten you so upset?” Astarion croons into your ear, grinding against you. 

Your lips curve downward into a pout. “I’m struggling to come up with an idea for my next book. I was supposed to announce the summary today.” 

That was only a half-truth. While inspiration did elude you for the time being, your lover’s ignorance was a far greater crime. You celebrated your birthday together every year, and yet Astarion seemed to have completely forgotten this time! 

“We could come up with some…ideas together,” his voice drips with honey as he pinches one of your nipples through the fabric of your nightgown. 

Frowning, you push his hands away and sit up. If he wasn’t going to celebrate your birthday with you, at least you could get some work done. That would mean spending your day productively, even if your stupid vampire lord husband had forgotten. 

Grabbing your tablet off the nightstand, you open a document and begin typing out some potential story threads in an impromptu brainstorming session. Sex pollen, maybe? Ugh, no. That one had already been done plenty of times. Beach sex? No thanks, just thinking about sand in your vagina made you cringe. 

“That’s a ‘big ass’ iPad, my dark consort,” Astarion says, interrupting your thoughts and looking over your shoulder to see what you’re doing. Though his speech and mannerisms did not change no matter how much time passed, you did try to do your part in teaching him the more…updated lingo. 

You stifle your laughter. “A present from you, two years ago.” 

A birthday present to be more precise. 

Despite your hint, Astarion the Ascendant Ignoramus does not seem to get it, and merely hums. 

You stare at the document. The mostly blank page stares back at you. 

“Fuck it,” you grumble, powering off the device. You couldn’t just will good ideas into existence, so you might as well get a start on the day. 

Heading over to the massive walk-in closet, you gasp as a beautiful ensemble greets you. A red and black corset dress paired with a puff-sleeved bolero jacket hangs neatly in front of the mirror. Both pieces are exactly your size, and have clearly been designed with you in mind. Matching platform boots with a silver bat accessory sit beside the outfit, and you scratch your head. How long has this been here? You call out over your shoulder, “Hey, when did you get this for me? I love it!”

“Anything for you, my darling,” comes his cool response. Your question remains unanswered.

“Well…thank you.” This was certainly a surprise, but since he hadn’t even mentioned your birthday, it surely was a fluke. Astarion often surprised you with random presents anyway. Once upon a time, the gifts had been difficult for you to accept, but over the years, Astarion had worn you down. Spoiling you was very much one of his love languages. There were never any strings attached, and no expectation of something in return. 

You try on the outfit, and it seems to have been tailored exactly for you. A very tiny ‘A.A.’ is stitched onto the inside, and warmth floods your heart. Astarion hadn’t just ordered the clothing for you; he’d made it. That made the present all the more special. 

When you walk over to the vanity, a brand new eyeshadow palette immediately catches your eye. Suspicion floods your mind. What is going on? The brand is one of your very favorites. Most of the palette consists of beautiful neutral colors that match most of the clothing you own, but there were also gorgeous duochrome shades as well. 

“Sublime, just like you, darling.” 

You whirl around to see Astarion leaning against the wall with a self-satisfied smirk. 

“What’s the occasion?” Did you dare to hope that he had remembered? 

“There has to be a special reason to give my treasure gifts she deserves?” 

The disappointed sigh in your throat is swallowed down. It wouldn’t be right to seem ungrateful, after all; these were really thoughtful presents. “Thank you.” 

Carefully fixing your makeup (and definitely indulging in the brand new palette), you turn to select your favorite perfume and gasp softly. An unfamiliar heart-shaped pink glass bottle only labeled “Little Love” grabs your attention. A soft voice whispers in your ear, “smeared lipstick and warm, flushed skin—vanilla, orris root, violet, sugar, cetalox, skin musk, and safraleine. Scents that remind me of you, my love. Go on, give it a try.” 

Spraying some on your wrist, you delicately sniff the concoction. “Oh!” It smells exactly as Astarion had described. You love it. 

“I made it; I really did miss my calling as a perfumer,” he drawls, examining his nails. 

“...Thank you.” You didn’t want to inflate his already massive ego any more, but these presents were really nice. It was also pretty strange that they appeared all at once. Did you just miss them before? That wouldn’t be possible, right? 

Dabbing the perfume on your other wrist, you carefully close the bottle and stand up to fix some breakfast. 

“No dry oats for you today, darling. I already have something just for you.” 

How had he reached the kitchen ahead of you? Astarion stands there, holding a massive cake, topped with a single candle. Three tiers of rainbow-flecked vanilla birthday cake, layers of creamy frosting and crunchy crumbs, each topped with rainbow sprinkles. It is absolutely ridiculous to just have between the two of you. But it’s your favorite, and you know he ordered it just for you. 

“Happy Birthday, my dear.” 

Your hands fly to your mouth. The silly man was just pretending he had forgotten all about your birthday this whole time? 

While you are busy contemplating how to both smack and kiss him at the time, he pulls you into his arms and sits down, placing you onto his lap.

“Open your mouth, little love.” 

Astarion cuts a slice of cake for you and feeds it to you. It tastes like a little piece of heaven. 

“...I thought you’d forgotten,” you admit, after swallowing the bite of cake. 

“Oh, you wound me!” He places a hand on his chest theatrically. “I would never forget such an important day.” 

You smile at him. Other than his nonchalant behavior earlier today (which had clearly been just to tease you), he was right; he had never forgotten any of your birthdays. 

After you finish the slice of cake, he places the rest of it into the refrigerator. “Now, pet, let’s play a little game.” 

“Oh? What game?” 

Over the course of the millenia you had been with him, there were all sorts of little games and activities you two had to keep things fresh and interesting. 

“You’ll try to chase me, and if you catch me…I’ll give you another present.” 

You nod. “It’s on, then.” 

This would be a breeze for you; you had always been faster than him to begin with. 

His lithe form shifts into one of a small black bat. 

“Hey! That’s cheating!” You cry out, as Bat-starion takes off flying back towards the bedroom. Keeping up is a walk in the park for you, but he stays just out of your reach. “Hey!!!” 

Pouting at him, you take a running leap and grab the bat with both hands, landing perfectly on your feet. 

“Gotcha.” 

Soft fur ripples back into warm flesh as Astarion returns to his regular form. “Well done, my dear. As promised…another present.” A pink candy is pressed against your lips, and you open them to taste the sweet and tangy flavor of berry lemonade… your favorite! 

Eyes widening, you look at him. 

“I did order several tubes of these, but I hid them around the palace. You’ll have to go find them yourself later. Now, there is one last present for you.” 

“What is it?” 

You had already gotten a new outfit, makeup, perfume, cake, and candy. What else could Astarion have possibly gotten you? 

“Me.” 

Stepping away from you with crimson eyes glinting, his pale fingers slowly unbutton his jacket. You don’t need to breathe, but find yourself holding your breath anyway. 

His jacket becoming a red and black silken heap on the carpet, Astarion then begins removing his shirt. Inch by inch, the smooth, pale chest you are all too familiar with is revealed to you. 

The dress pants are next. Astarion leisurely unbuckles his belt, before sliding the trousers down his perfect legs. 

“Precious thing; you always stare so eagerly,” he teases you with another smirk, palming his thick length through the fabric of his underwear. 

“Well, you are putting on quite the show. Now, are you going to give me my present, or do I have to take it myself?” 

He chuckles. “My, my. So impatient.” 

You cross the room to rest your forehead against his, before pressing your lips together. Sliding his hands into your hair, he deepens the kiss, before pulling away and gently nipping your bottom lip. “Good things come to those who wait.” 

“Well, it’s my birthday. And I want good things without waiting.”  

Closing the distance between you once more, you claim his lips in another kiss. 

The floor beneath you falls away as you are swept into his arms. “Oh, I can refuse you nothing.” 

He tosses you gently onto the soft bed. Astarion may be well-versed in keeping a cool and collected facade, but you’ve been his lover for over a thousand years. The man is just as eager as you are. 

Crawling atop you and capturing your lips in a searing kiss, he palms your breast through your clothing. You can feel your nipples stiffening, eager for his warm touch. Astarion kisses down your throat and chest, unfastening the corset along the way. 

He gently nips at your hardened peak with his teeth, before latching on and sucking hard. You moan, running your fingers through his soft hair as he moves onto the other nipple.

“Take me now,” you pant at him. He’s already made you wait for so long.   

“As you wish.” Moving back up to meet your lips with his again, deft fingers push your lacy panties aside. Astarion slides into you with one smooth, confident thrust. 

You groan in unison as he sets a punishing pace, likely in part caused by your impatience. Your walls flutter around his thick cock as he snaps his hips into you. Locking your ankles behind his hips, your nails dig into his back. Each thrust brings a familiar stretch, and you love every second of it. Your bodies slot together like perfect pieces of a puzzle, born from so many years of lovemaking. He knows your body as well as his own.

Reaching between your bodies, he rubs at your clit with practiced fingers. You’re close. So close. A spark of pleasure rising to dizzying heights. 

“Come for me.” 

You shatter. There is nothing but the wave of ecstasy washing through you. 

His hips stutter as he follows you with a groan. Warmth floods your insides as you lay there, panting from exertion.  

“Now let’s freshen up and greet the day, my love. Here’s to another year in our eternal lives.” 

You decide that tonight, you’ll go for round two. 

[hell-alka]

What do you think would be spawn vs ascended Astarion's approach to the holidays. Would either be more fall holidays or more winter? If so what would they do during this time and what would their routine be with Sangvia? And how would Sangvia reaction to the holidays as well?

Feel free to be as in depth as little or as much as you would like, just thought this would be a fun ask, :).

Thank you for a interesting question! I needed time to prepare the art, but I finally finished it ^^

This text has been translated from my native language into english with a lot of help from a translator, just a heads up! It really hurts me to lose Astarion's manner of speech because of this...

Spawn Astarion

Astarion remained vulnerable to the sun and a cure for this affliction has not yet been found. He does not entertain great hopes in this regard, so he learns to accept the new reality that the long-awaited freedom has taken the form of night and darkness. It would seem that this is just his path that needs to be overcome, but Sangviya worries about the lack of sun no less. At first, it was just fear for a loved one - anxiety for a vampire who is delayed on a mission until midday, fear that he has fallen into a trap and the sun is slowly creeping up on him, concerns before each sleep "are the curtains and windows securely closed." Sangvia even began to calculate the exact time of sunrises and sunsets to know when to panic, when it is safe for Astarion to go outside and when it is worth looking for shelter. He brushes off her worries every time, although he is touched by her concern. Sanya knows that he will be careful even without her reminders, which of them is a vampire with 200 years of experience? It was not only about danger, but about longing for a warm sun, and Sanya could not help with this. However, her suspiciousness was not in vain! Studying astronomy and the behavior of the sun more and more, Sangvia finds information about two interesting days - the longest and shortest night of the year! And indeed, she remembers how people celebrated something similar when she was a teenager, it's just that back then she was more interested in the alcohol from the fair than the reason why it was brought here.

Summer solstice

Summer Solstice is the shortest night of the year and the longest day! When Sanya first suggested celebrating this holiday to Astarion, it made him a little nervous. For several years he has been trying out life in the shadows, and the proposal to celebrate the longest day seems to him… a mockery?

"I appreciate your efforts darling, but I'm not sure I'm comfortable thinking about it… let alone not being able to spend the day in the sun that this event is dedicated to."

But Sanya just smiled.

"You're hiding from the sun, not from life! I know it's hard… More precisely, I thought it was just the threat that light carries. But then it seemed to me that you're hiding not only from it, but also from what it can give, namely today - fun, celebration, emotions! We can hide from the rays, but this does not mean that we should be deprived of other joys in life. Let's not run away this time, but brazenly have fun, in spite of fate and fear!"

Astarion did not expect anything good from this venture, but he could not resist the optimism of his beloved.

Sangvia prepared and organized this special day for a long time - fenced off the room in the tavern from the light, bought food and drinks, created coziness and warmth by placing candles. But the main thing she planned was a huge list of games and entertainment for the two of them! Astarion was waiting for gambling strip games, reading terrible erotic novels, lanceboard for drinks, questionable songs, an evening of makeup and nails and much more that came to their minds in the process! It was the longest day of the year, dedicated not to the sun, but to the warmth of two special people.

Part 2

[razrogue]

Baby, You're The Devil I Know (Ascended Astarion)

Ascended Astarion x Tav

Tags: Evil Tav, Post Rite of Profane Ascension, Canon Divergence, Light Angst, A Little Hurt and A Little Comfort

Chapter Summary: Astarion finally makes it back to their camp, hopeful that he would be able to make things right with the only person he wanted to share his future with

Notes: The music is winding down and we're finally at the last chapter! These two are flawed but so devoted and romantic, they deserve each other. I appreciate every one who has enjoyed and engaged with this small glimpse into the relationship of the Spawn turned Ascendant and the Assassin he fell hopelessly in love with 🫶🏾

Read what happened immediately after the ritual on AO3 Read all 4 chapters of what unfolded in that aftermath on AO3

Camp wasn't particularly lively but there seemed to be a buzz in the air nevertheless. He knew Gan had definitely returned judging by the mostly relieved looks on almost everyone's faces. He wasn't sure what she'd said to everyone, if she'd even said anything about their argument in the tavern. Minthara had not greeted him by smiting so maybe Gan had kept everything to herself.

When he'd stopped by temporarily the other day to drop off the staff and let everyone know they were okay, he could sense a change. Shadowheart had run over, her expression beset with worry when she didn't see Gan with him. Gale stood outside his tent, a faint smile dragged across his lips when he heard Astarion say Gan was fine, but his eyes wore a hint of sadness.

It wasn't lost on Astarion how almost everyone's behavior towards him had shifted. Shadowheart and Gale seemed weary and cautious, almost sad. Minsc was always in his own world while Boo seemed more prickly than usual. Jaheira's expression was her usual steeliness but she had made it a point to tell him how they'd be cozy neighbors after everything was dealt with. Lae'zel scoffed at his shortsightedness, as she called it, but she was behaving no different than before towards him.

Minthara though? She was a surprise. She seemed genuinely happy for him. Happy that he had seized the power and struck down Cazador. No chastisement, no sad looks, no veiled threats. Just congratulations and genuine happiness.

Sure these people weren't necessarily his friends but that moment in camp made him feel like the camaraderie they'd been building and developing over their journey had been conditional. Of course he was one of the gang until he'd done something they didn't exactly approve of. The ritual and its outcome seemed to bring out a side of nearly everyone that would have been devastating to him under his old circumstances. The spawn might have been hurt, lashed out at them, even shed a few tears over it when he was alone on a hunt perhaps. But now? Now it was merely annoying. Anyone who really mattered to him, they supported him. And their loyalty would be rewarded.

Her tent was empty but he figured she had to be in her little spot. The group had been camping near the port by an abandoned tower off the river. A tower that despite its dilapidated appearance, she’d claimed as her own. For thinking, for scheming, he wasn’t sure what for but she’d spent some nights there once they’d decided to lay low here. He carefully made the climb up, carefully stepping upon each rickety step, and found her perched on a precarious ledge overlooking the water.

She didn't even turn to see who'd come up after her, knowing it could only be him.

“So who am I talking to? The great and powerful vampire ascendant?” Her voice cracked a little as she tried and failed to mask the hurt she was feeling, “or has my Plum come to talk to me?”

Astarion sighed. She had supported him. Even when the rest of the companions were displeased he was even considering usurping Cazador's ritual, Gan stood up for and beside him. She never said to him he was wrong or right. She simply asked him if this is what he wanted and trusted him to do what worked for him. For the first time in a long time, he was free to really choose for himself. Astarion hadn’t had this sort of freedom in centuries and it was frightening at first. He’d even asked her outright what he should do. And Gan simply told him, you do what you need to do, I’ll be there whatever you decide.

So as he tried to push past the awful words Cazador was saying, deciding in that moment what he wanted, he turned to her for help. To help him reclaim his freedom and never have to live in fear, once and for all.

I can do this but I need your help.

She didn’t chastise. She didn’t mock. She did what she always did. Whenever they turned to her in their times of need, looking for guidance, she always asked if it was what they wanted. Some might have thought it foolish. Many would have said you should try to persuade your friends, especially when they’re faced with huge life decisions. But that wasn’t her style. Her style was always to leave their decision or mess making to them. It wasn’t her life to live, she'd told them and they’d have to live with their actions. She said the same to Wyll. To Karlach. To Lae’zel. To Shadowheart. To Gale. And now, it was his turn. He had to have faith in his choices and that was all she ever pushed anyone to consider. For better or worse.

She stood there, looking at him intently, only asking him one thing: is this what you want?

Cazador was in shock as he trembled on the ground, trying his best to get Astarion to walk away, foolishly thinking his belittlement would shake him like it had numerous times before. But he was different now. He stood there before him, dagger in hand, the same one Astarion recognized as the one he used to write the infernal on his back. Upon realizing what he held in his hand, Astarion knew exactly what he wanted to do.

The rest of their companions protested vehemently and their cries went ignored. He ignored everything around him, save for her.

Help me do this. Please.

Gan simply nodded and proceeded to let their tadpoles mingle until their minds intertwined. More than their minds really, their beings had become like one. Her eyes were his eyes. Their memories and emotions were one in that moment. They both drowned out everything but each other and began.

Astarion realized what he was blinded to earlier as they faced off in the inn. He didn’t need to compel her. He never did because she was always there. By choice. A choice he’d almost taken from her. Thinking about it, he knew where she stood. What she wanted. And for some reason, whether valid or foolish, she chose to be there with him.

Well he certainly didn't want to admit that to her just then. She was already giving him a look that he was beginning to waver under. Her eyes could melt him, probably literally if she put her mind to it. She trusted him and in a power filled haze he almost destroyed that.

"Yes, well there's no rush," he finally remarked, trying to appear nonchalant as he looked at his nails, "things can be sorted out after we've brought the brain under our control."

Gan closed her eyes, contemplating this ��apology” he'd conjured up.

The two of them had really been through a lot, as far as their respective lives, and together with each other over the past few months. Both had done things and endured things in their lives that others wouldn't understand. When they finally started showing each other glimpses of who they really were underneath, they realized they'd found someone who could understand. Someone who saw the darkness and instead of asking them to come to the light or running away, they opened their arms and eventually their hearts. They embraced the messy, the bloody, the scary, and the shadows. They saw those raw edges and didn't say they needed to be sanded away. Instead they were all in for each other, ready to sharpen and hone, acknowledging the edges and that the world would just have to adjust to them or move out of their path.

She held up her hand, placing it gently in his open waiting palm, while he helped her up to her feet. He leaned back against the wall as she stepped in front of him, finally resting his hands on her waist.

As her brown eyes peered up at him, he cursed to himself that their argument was why her normally alert eyes were puffy and tinged with redness. Her cheeks still slightly damp from tears that he'd caused her to shed. He'd strike down anyone who brought harm to his Darling One but what to do when it was him. They'd both pushed each other but he didn't care who was at fault, he just wanted to make sure she was okay. He wanted her to feel better and red eyes and tears, no matter whether they were fresh or not, were far from that goal. Gan wrapped her arms tightly around him and rested her head against his chest.

"I don't like seeing tears in your eyes, love," he finally said as he gently stroked her back. She remained quiet, choosing to relish the comfort and closeness in this moment. He deserved to be slapped, maybe a small reminder of what Bloodthirst in the hands of an unholy assassin was capable of, but right then she just wanted his arms around her.

The two of them stood there embracing each other quietly for a few minutes until he stirred and raised her chin up so he could look at her. He needed to look her in the eyes. Needed her to understand. He did not like feeling the way he was right now and it unsettled him a little that this had affected him the way it did. He was the Vampire Ascendant, something new, something else, and he didn’t want to be burdened by this regret that was bubbling up in him.

"Do you hear me?" Though his expression and voice were stern, his touch was far gentler this time, nothing like the painful hold back at the tavern.

Her eyes searched his face, noting how his brow furrowed and his jaw held tension. He was remorseful, or at least she hoped he was, and for now she'd let things be.

"Behave yourself and you won't see them," Gan countered before closing her eyes and leaning into his touch.

"I guess that depends on you then, doesn't it," Astarion quipped before pressing a kiss to her forehead. Gan grabbed hold of his side strongly enough that he quickly uprighted himself, hissing loudly through gritted teeth as he glared down at her. His reflection in her brown eyes surrounded by a quiet ferociousness; that defiant side of her peeking through the sadness that had covered her face mere moments ago.

Astarion huffed and shrugged his shoulders, freeing himself from her grip and shaking off the moment. "Well now that that's dealt with, shall we descend this death trap of a structure and get back to solid ground?" With a swift smack to her ass, he released her and motioned towards the ragged stairs.

This partnership of two troubled souls who'd traversed the darkness alone before meeting each other was one of many firsts for both of them. By choice, hand in hand, they decided they would walk off into the future by each other's sides. A future they were seizing for themselves and woe to anyone who dared to get in their way.

[baldurs-writers-3]

Time Skips & Future Fics: A Baldur's Gate 3 Fanfic Rec list

This week, we have Time Skips & Future Fics!  Check under the cut for a whopping nineteen fics that show all our favorite companions and what they’re doing years after the Absolute Crisis. And as always, comment and kudos if you like them!

One Last Crooked Night by Scaryanne (34342, Explicit) Warnings: None Pairings: Gale/Tav, Astarion/Tav

Tav is engaged to marry Gale. Astarion is in love with Tav. Tav is in love with... Astarion. UH-OH

Reccer says: I'm a sucker for reading about idiots in love who could solve so many problems with some simple communication but instead choose to do anything but that. Also it is a nice exploration of what somebody "Should do" verses what they WANT to do.

A Gift, A Curse by El_emit (195161, Explicit) Warnings: Graphic violence, non-con/rape, mind control Pairings: Astarion/Tav

A story in which we discover just how damned an ascended vampire can be, and just how far you will go to save the elf you loved.

Reccer says: A post canon "what happened after we let him ascend" fic. The author does a phenomenal job of world building, tugging on your emotions, making you feel shocked and afraid and excited for what's coming next all at once. Most chapters have left me on the edge of my chair waiting for more of the story to unfold. (Still ongoing!)

Coming Home by MoisopolonOikia (roughlytwentytwofrogs) (15962, Mature) Warnings: PTSD/Anxiety, descriptions of panic attacks and hypervigilance, amputated MC Pairings: Shadowheart/Lae'zel

Lae'zel comes back to Faerûn after the war on Vlaakith is won, a decade after the illithid invasion. She meets Halsin at the grove and travels with him towards Last Light Inn to find her lover Shadowheart and all her old friends there, but she has to deal with the toll the years of fighting have taken on her body and mind on the way.

Reccer says: Very sweet and emotional slowburn with a focus on exploring a post-Vlaakith Lae'zel that came back changed after 10 years of warring. Made me cry more than once (it's a good thing i promise)

The stars in between. by ElleKhen (17795, Explicit) Warnings: Pairings: Astarion/Tav

Years after the events of the game, Withers invites Church, Astarion, and their former companions back for yet another party — a cozy, festive celebration of Simril! Thrilled at the prospect of seeing his friends together again, Church takes the opportunity to indulge in a nostalgic tradition of his old village. But once Astarion realizes that this tradition involves giving gifts, he desperately tries to come up with a last-minute gift worthy enough for his partner with help from their friends and a certain (former) god of death.

Reccer says: I love how cozy and lighthearted and fun it is

Exile (Or: How You Learned to Stay) by Astarionfreak (51877, Explicit) Warnings: Non-con, mind control, graphic violence Pairings: Astarion/The Dark Urge, Shadowheart/The Dark Urge

When you have nothing, and the only one who offers you anything is the vampire you've spurned, what else can you say to him but yes?

Reccer says: A post canon story that explores the cost of seven thousand souls and how far Astarion will go to keep what he wants. This fic is exceptional. It perfectly captures every element of a gothic horror, it weaves together foreshadowing and layers to the story that you don't realize until you're reading the reveal. I have cried and laughed and fell in love with the heroine; it has made me loath a character I love. This isn't a feel good story, and if you're looking for a dark way to take things, this is where you should go.

I'm Feeling For Her What She's Feeling For Me by Zetal (Rodinia) (757, General) Warnings: None Pairings: Karlach/Tav

A cute short fluff fic that takes place two years after the end of the game.

Reccer says: It's short and sweet and I just want to give Karlach a giant hug 💕

turn the lights back on by weatheredlaw (16 104, Explicit) Warnings: None Pairings: Gale/Shadowheart

four years after they parted in baldur's gate, shadowheart arrives in waterdeep with a wish scroll in hand and asks gale for his help casting it. it winds up being more than either of them expects.

Reccer says: There's such a cozy feel to this! All the interactions between all the different characters, the excellent characterization and the musings they have. It's a very interesting little introspection.

As we were by LycheeShark (9363, Explicit) Warnings: None Pairings: Astarion/Durge

Former lovers Astarion and Minx end up back in their old bodies--back when he was Cazador's spawn, not the vampire ascendant, and back when she was still trapped in Bhaal's clutches with all the urges that entail. Together, they must figure out a way back to the future they came from.

Reccer says: It's so engaging!! This fic just hooks you straight off the bat. Great character voices, especially for Gortash and Sceleritas, fantastic premise and things are always happening!

Appetites by SpaceMonkeySalsa (72213, Explicit) Warnings: Suicide, depression, smut Pairings: Astarion/OFC

It's been five years since the Vampire Ascendant Astarion helped save Baldur's Gate. He has everything he ever wanted, and he's miserable. Isolde is nobody, and has nothing. When given the option to become a vampire spawn, her response gives Astarion a moment of pause; “No. Thank you. I think I’ll just die.”

Reccer says: I'm not normally into Ascended Astarion but I love this fic. It's very well written, and shows that Astarion has a bit of remorse about his actions. He has a complicated relationship with the primary character, Isolde; but it's not the only conflict brewing in the story. Features cameos from several other evil-ending!members of the rest of Team Tadpole as well.

she will come back by sevensistersofsussex (14297, Explicit) Warnings: angst with a happy ending, smut Pairings: Wyll/Tav

A decade after a rejected proposal, tiefling Tav sees Wyll once again. Old feelings come back.

Reccer says: I like the emotion and longing between the two characters.

Harper Files: A - Team by Tynithia (17552, Mature) Warnings: None Pairings: Emperor/Tav, Tav & OCs

Four years after the Netherbrain, Ellandra is now a Harper, under Jaheira's cell. She and her Harper Squad are tasked to find the source of some magical occurrences around Baldur's Gate

Reccer says: Fun action/adventure comedy with original characters along with cameos and a plot!

Midwinter in Waterdeep by woodsnweaves (4229, Mature) Warnings: None Pairings: Gale/Tav

After the events of the game, the main character of this fic realizes she's not one for a routine, scheduled life in Waterdeep. She and Gale fell in love quickly and didn't realize how difficult it would be to adjust to a new life together.

Reccer says: This is easily my favorite Gale fic I've read. It's such a great blend of angst and happiness. The way the author conveys their emotions is absolutely tear-jerking and I LOVE IT. I've read this multiple times and still adore it.

Weeping Dawn by Hadesgirl015 (1483, Teen) Warnings: Major character death Pairings: Tav/Karlach, Tav&Wyll

A shortly after the end of the game fic, exploring the deep grief felt when the love of your life is gone.

Reccer says: The grief in this is so well written and explored, and it's such beautiful work for how short and sweet it is. I cried while reading this.

Closing the Fist by aqeldroma (78366, Explicit) Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence Pairings: Gortash/The Dark Urge

A month past her victory over the netherbrain at Gortash's side, the Dark Urge, newly devoted to Bane, returns to Baldur's Gate with an urgent mission. But complications are afoot, and tyranny is never quite straightforward.

Reccer says: 75k+ words of post-canon evil intrigue; the Netherbrain as an actual character; the Zhentarim featuring in a big way.

What you made me by Denesmera (11452, Mature) Warnings: None Pairings: Astarion/Tav, Halsin/Tav

It's been almost 6 months since they defeated the Elderbrain. Everybody seems to have found a purpose in life, expect Maeva.

Reccer says: Denesmera crafts a beautiful tale with elegant prose. I love the dynamics of her struggle with her purpose.

the cure for the world is saltwater by Raayide (16871, Teen) Warnings: None Pairings: astarion/karlach

Can Astarion really have a 'happily ever after' waiting for him considering the past 200 years?

Reccer says: Heart-wrenching and heartwarming all at once

Servitude by krapka (10 137, Explicit) Warnings: Dubious Consent, Stockholm Syndrome, Power Imbalance, Master/Servant, Sex Slave Pairings: Astarion/Original Character

It's been 7 centuries since the defeat of the Absolute, and the city of Baldur’s Gate, ruled by a legendary Eternal Duke Ancunin and forsaken by all gods, has descended into perpetual darkness. Aveline is one of the 'faded' - a group of people who this cruel world changed the most. Yet she possesses a unique talent.

Reccer says: Nobody writes porn like krapka. The characters don't even have to fuck before the fucking starts. The tension is always on point, and a lot is done with the world building with few words here and there. I'm so stoked to see where this is going!

Tidal Memories by Irken (4900 atm, it's a freshly-posted wip, Mature) Warnings: Canon-typical violence Pairings: The Emperor/Illithid Tav

It's an adventure/boat trip story 5 years post-game about the Emperor, illithid Tav, and some of the other companions (Wyll, Karlach, Gale, Astarion) going to the royal court of Tethyr to retrieve the Shield of Silvam. They explore both cities along the coast and their relationships with each other.

Reccer says: Irken's prose about being illithid and mind melding specifically is really sweet and thoughtful...

And then we have two recs for:

The Legends of Nexus Vermis by Masterangst12 (84260, Mature) Warnings: Canon-typical violence, torture, past abuse Pairings: Tav/Astarion

A post-game adventure taking place a few months after the reunion party following Astarion and Axel (Tav) meeting up with their former traveling companions.

Reccer #1 says:  The author describes things beautifully, and their OCs are engaging and fun to read about. I love their Tav (Axel) so much, and his relationship with Astarion. Reccer #2 says:  This is one of my favorite post game fics that I'm reading. I've been keeping up with it for a while now and I've just fallen in love with the original characters created for it. The author does such a great job of describing the scenes around them, I always have a very clear picture of what's going on!

The above fanfic recommendations were pulled from our community for this weekly event. Have any questions about what this is? Check out the FAQ! Next week, we’ll be back with a heartbreaking and bloody theme, Revenge Fics!

[nocryptographer]

Writer's year 2024

Since you artists are doing your (amazing) art summaries, and I can't do that since I can't draw... I'm going to do an excerpt summary. This was my first year in fanfic writing, and oh, what a joyride it was! Here we go, my tasting menu of the year:

January

"It was one of those winters that never really began. A moist combination of snow and water kept falling from the sky, but never turned into fluffy, white flakes that would have made Enfield look magical and cozy."

(From We're Not In Enfield Anymore)

February

She closed her eyes, and Astarion knew everything had been said. He lay on the bed next to her and pulled her into his embrace. And there they stayed, until her heart stopped beating.

(From All The Roads We Never Took)

March

“With a woman? But I’m not… I like men”, she said.

“Labels, labels, labels… my dear, didn’t you just yesterday think you would never want to warm anyone’s bed but Lord Edmund’s? And yet, I bet people from here to Rivington heard you enjoying the company of Wyll Ravengard…”

“Shut up!” Gloriana shushed and turned bright red.

(From Maid In Faerûn)

April

“You’re knocking? That’s a first”, Gloriana said. “What happened to just bursting into my bedroom and destroying some furniture in the process?”

“You look lovely”, Ominoth said, ignoring her.

“I assume you’re about to tell me the details of trial number six?” Gloriana said.

(From Maid In Faerûn)

May

Cazador laughed maniacally. He loved this. He felt shivers all through his body. The power of this magic was unquestionable. It was dangerous, yet he couldn’t get enough of it.

“Sounds like you enjoyed it”, Sheena said and smiled, which now irritated Cazador noticeably less than just a couple of minutes ago.

“What is this? I need to learn this”, he said, still in awe.

“That was Metallica and Master of Puppets. One of the greatest jams ever written.”

(From Strange Highways)

June

“How do we know it’s… working?” Cazador asked.

“What do you mean?”

“The music.”

“Oh we’ll know. If people start moshing, then it’s totally working”, Randy grinned.

“What is moshing?” Cazador asked.

Randy shook his head and smiled. It was time for another lesson.

(From Strange Highways)

July

Cazador gave one last look to Astarion and his friends. Then he turned away. Goodbye, Astarion . At least I don’t have to look at that smug face of yours ever again. He knew what was coming. He had feared it ever since Mephistopheles had emerged from the chasm. In the face of the inevitable he felt surprisingly calm. He tried to memorize Sheena’s face, every detail of it, so he could always bring it back with his mind in the darkness that awaited. He formed the words with his lips: It’s going to be okay .

“Tempting”, he said to Mephistopheles. “But my answer is no.”

(From Strange Highways)

August

“I love you, Caz”, she said from the verge of falling asleep.

She drifted into a peaceful dream, the warmth of her words still lingering in the air. Cazador stared at the ceiling, contemplating tonight and all nights to come, and came to the conclusion - once absurd, but now undeniable - that life was the most wonderful thing.

(From Down To The Paradise City)

September

“Because I was failing!” Petras shouted. “I can’t do this! I tried my best but it went wrong from the start. No one respects me. There’s no one in the palace because I haven’t turned a single soul. I don’t know how you did it. It’s so stressful and how am I supposed to even… am I supposed to ask them? What if they say no? I can’t just go around biting people and… I thought if I ascended, things would be different, I would be powerful… that I would be like…”

Petras didn’t finish his sentence. Cazador hid his head in his hands and counted slowly to ten to avoid resorting to his old, violent ways.

“You reckless idiot! I curse the day I turned you! Because of your delusions we’re all fucked!” He exclaimed.

(From Objects In The Rear View Mirror)

October

On mornings like this Astarion would roam the halls, searching for nothing in particular. Using the last moments before sunrise, he briefly stepped on the balcony, smelling the morning air. If he closed his eyes, he could almost sense the tender warmth of the sun and forget it would burn him to ashes if he stayed any longer. This had become a little routine of his. Toying with death gave him a satisfying sense of control.

(From And Blessed Are The Broken)

November

I walked away but here I stand

Their blood forever in my hands

A twisted mirror, who is he

Smash reflection, kill the beast

(From Objects In The Rear View Mirror)

December

“Yes, I remember”, Cazador said, his face muscles aching from trying to force a smile. “I know what I put my name on, but now that you mention it, we could perhaps revisit the terms…”

“That’s out of the question, Szarr.”

“Sure. I understand.”

11:18 StarBoy85 joined the meeting

“Splendid morning to my favourite client!” Astarion said, his face appearing on the right corner of the screen. His hair was messy in a deliberate-looking, boyishly charming way. “What a pleasure to see you, mister Mephistopheles. Worry not, I’m here to rescue you from the miserable company of these two killjoys. I’m kidding, of course! We’re all one big, happy family here at Crimson Technologies, aren’t we, Caz?”

(From Off The Clock)

[mrfancyfoot]

Fancy's Baldur's Gate Master List

I write and create works that frequently toe the line between serious and absurd. I like to explore many of the "between" moments, "what-ifs," thought experiments, culture clash, and slice of life. While much of my content runs the gamut of ratings, it is very much intended for an adult (18+) audience. My WIP "Plots & Prosody" (info below) is my current focus.

▹Back to Main Master Post

▹To Other Works Master List

▹Main OC

Evie Felicien: Character Reference └── My "modern girl nautiloided into Faerûn" OC found in the below works.

▹Artwork

Raphael x Evie (f!humanOC/Tav): └── Evie's Pickup Skills └── The Devil's Flower

All dividers in this post are of my own creation.

▹Patchwork Plots

Astarion x Evie (f!humanOC) | Rating: E/Varied | WIP | AO3 Chapter 1

Summary: An indulgent, often humorous drabble/snapshot series for my merry little band of murder-hobos led by someone with little sense of self-preservation.

▹Plots & Prosody

Raphael x Evie (f!humanOC) | Rating: E/Varied | WIP | AO3 Chapter 1

**I am in the process of cleaning up the links for the tumblr posts of chapters to add here.

Requests Open!

Summary: All’s fair in love and war. Plots & Prosody is the equally indulgent Patchwork Plots spin-off drabble/snapshot (mis)adventures of Evie, set during the main events of BG3 and after, as she makes a new life for herself in Baldur’s Gate. And the devil attempting to court her while he takes over the Hells. . . Things are bustling in Baldur’s Gate as the city rebuilds. Life is looking up for Evie who has ambitions set on her (re-)inventions and business ventures as she juggles a certain vampire’s budding political career, the unwitting godhood bestowed upon her by a clan of fanatical fish people, and the increasing attentions of a devil who she believes woefully has no other friends.

Prosody diverts from Patchwork in Act II when Astarion decides instead that he needs to focus on himself first and isn’t ready for a relationship. He and Evie remain very close (platonically). For undisclosed plot reasons (that would spoil Patchwork but aren’t so relevant here), this occasionally features a (softer) version of Ascended!Astarion. This, of course, opens an opportunity for someone else to stir up drama in ways only a cambion with a budding obsession over an oblivious AuDHD-modern-girl can.

It is recommended for context and the character development, but not wholly necessary, that you read Patchwork Plots first. :)

Prosody Prompt Fills and Shorts

A Blank Page: "Evie starts her contractually mandated courtship friendship period with Raphael and he presents her with a gift." | Raphael x Evie; Fluff; Friendship; Stalking; Obsession; Dark Romance

Good Morning: "Raphael has turned into Evie's unexpectedly enthusiastic guinea pig as she's wrapped up in the grueling project of (re-)inventing cell phones and the internet. Turns out the devil likes 'Good Morning' texts." | Raphael x Evie; Fluff; Humor; Fantasy Tech; Raphael Learns How to Text; Raphael is Down Bad; Devil Courtship; He's a Silly Devil <3

Caress: "She arrives at the House of Hope to find a grumpy, stressed devil in need of a nap.  AKA: Despite himself, Raphael succumbs to some of his more human needs." | Raphael x Unnamed F!Tav/OC (implied Evie); Fluff; Comfort; Cozy; Slight Alcohol/Drug Use by Raphael; Raphael’s Only Soft for Her; Cuddly Devil; Devils Can Purr; Some Slight Charitable Reimaginings of HoH Architecture; Devil Courtship

Supreme: "Evie reflects on Raphael's chosen title as he commences with his plans to take over the Hells." | Raphael x Evie; Humor; Fluff; Silliness; Modern Girl in BG; Pop Culture References; Befriending the Devil

A Gift of Heart: "To a devil, gifting the heart of your enemy (for free, no less!) is practically a confession of love. Evie contemplates getting a spray bottle to spritz her murderous cat of a devil friend." | Raphael x Evie; Dark Humor; ...Fluff?; Dark Romance; Evie is a Bit Socially/Romantically Naive; Devil Courtship

A Bite of Cold: "Just because Raphael must dispose of the many enemies standing between him and his rule of the Hells doesn’t mean he needs to be wasteful. Or: Raphael presents Evie with some nice, new hides of his enemies furs to fight off the chill of winter that has come to Baldur’s Gate." | Raphael x Evie; Fluff; Dark Romance; Violence & Gore; Only Soft for Her; Gift Giving; Sexually Suggestive

Raphael is a Romantic - Headcanon

▹Requests are presently open for Prosody-universe prompt, headcanon, etc fills!

▹In The Works

Plots & Prosody - Chapter 19: "A contract is signed."

Prosody Kinktober Prompt Fill - Body Worship: "Victorious in battle, there is only one thing on Raphael's mind: seeing his fox and claiming his prize." | Bathing, Humor, Body Worship, Smut

Prosody Prompt Fill - Soup & Crackers: "Evie falls ill and Raphael opts to spend the day in bed with her." | Illness; Comfort; Fluff

Prosody Prompt Fill - Taxes: "Tax season is nearing and Evie is anxious about fulfilling her civic duty correctly. Astarion and Raphael argue over what paperwork does and doesn't need to be filed and paid until they end up just doing it themselves." | Humor; Fluff

Latest WIP Whenever: A sneak peak at artwork "The Devil's Flower" and Prosody Ch.19

▹Certain prompt fills are presently Tumblr-exclusive for Plots & Prosody (if/when they can be officially added to the main story, they'll be posted to AO3 as well). If you would like to be tagged when story updates or prompts are posted to tumblr, please drop me a comment or DM. :3

[miradelletarot]

Fic authors self rec! When you get this, reply with your favorite five fics that you've written, then pass on to at least five other writers. Spread the self-love 💕

Thank you so much @senualothbrok for the ask!! let's see what I can come up with here...

Now, I am gonna preface this by saying that I LOVE The Weave and the Vines, but I don't feel super cozy about sharing it in the state it's currently in as it's going through a lot of edits and adjustments currently. That being said, It's a project I am so deeply proud of and passionate about. It has had a huge impact on me as a person and writer. If you would like to explore it, please do. I am working on changing how I posted it so parts 1-2 are here while the rest are listed as individual works which can be found on my ao3! So, if you explore this one, please be gentle and know that it's in a transition phase, and is in the process of getting a lot of love. It's based on my main OC, Sagora and her journey since being captured by the Ilithids, and how her and Gale fell in love. Two broken souls finding each other in their darkest times, and shining their light on one another.

Somewhere - Written for @sorceresssundries! This was a prompt based on the song "Somewhere Only We Know," sung by Lily Allen. Gale is in his advanced years, and lonely after Tav's passing some time ago. He returns to the Astral Sea that he once took Tav, and has created a version of them within the illusion for him to visit. He takes comfort in the illusion, but one day, it becomes more than a small visit.

Lies in the Mirror - This little treato is a soft, tender, SFW piece where reader-insert Tav is dealing with some body dysphoria, and Gale is there to comfort them. A bit raw, real, and comforting piece. It's small, but has a huge impact on me personally.

I Wanted to be Angry - This is a Sagora x Gale AU where Gale ascends to Godhood. If you have read The Weave and the Vines, you will know that him doing so would absolutely break her. This is a painful one-shot that explores how she succumbs to her heartbreak, and how Astarion and the other companions break the news to God!Gale during their gathering in the months following the defeat of the Netherbrain. This one made *me* cry so...have a tissue handly. Just in case.

An Unexpected Valentine - This was written for a Discord Galentine's event back in February! It's a one-shot Isekai fic that follows Ilarah, a depressed and divorced woman who works for a shitty boss, and self-soothes by playing BG3 and drinking too much whiskey. One stormy night, a portal appears, and a strange man appears in her apartment...but he's certainly no stranger. I hope you like these!! I will let you know that in light of the recent AI theft issues, I have my fics set to RESTRICTED. If this is an issue for you, and you genuinely want to read them but can't, please message me. I'll be happy to assist you. <3

[bardic-inspo]

Writer Interview

Tagged by the wonderful @electricshoebox 💜💜💜 Thank you, friendo!!

Tagging forward @vixstarria, @littlejuicebox, @ravnloft if you'd like to do this, too. No worries if not! 💜

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

16 (and counting!)

2. What’s your total AO3 word count?

351,099

3. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

Red Heart indicates smut included somewhere in the fic (or will be included in future chapters)❤️

All are Fallout 4 fics except the last two, which are Baldur's Gate 3.

Bring the Gasoline (MacCready x Sole Survivor Longfic❤️)

No Rest for the Wicked (MacCready x Deacon X Sole OT3)

We Never Go Anywhere Nice (MacCready x Deacon x Sole OT3)

Worried Sick (MacCready x Deacon x Sole OT3)

Midnight Chimes (Astarion x Cursed!Tav longfic❤️)

Honorable Mention: Blood in the Mortar (Ascended Astarion x Vampire Bride Tav❤️❤️❤️)

4. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

Yes! I'm sometimes (very) fashionably late in doing so. But it's really important to me for a number of reasons. I don't ever want anyone who takes the time to read/comment to feel like I take that for granted (I absolutely don't). It is so incredibly motivating to know there's someone out there enjoying what I'm writing. I want any/all commenters to know I just appreciate them so much.

I've also stumbled into friendships through commenting back and forth on fics before, which was wonderful and unexpected and just opened a new dimension of fandom/community for me. Compliments are wonderful, but I mostly share my writing because I want to feel connected to that sense of community and enjoy that mutual love of whatever universe sprouted the fics in the first place. Responding back to comments makes me feel more in tune with all of that.

5. What’s the fic you’ve written with the angstiest ending?

I tend to follow a "more hurt more comfort" motto, so most of the angst I write is followed up by comfort (or at least, a comforting note at the end).

I'm gonna say Warm Bodies. It's an angsty Fallout 4 smut fic featuring Deacon x MacCready x Sole Survivor in an established (somewhat domestic) OT3. A close call with death rattles them and they have emotional sex about it. Although there's a lot of comfort with the angst, the ending note is slightly melancholy. It implies that either a) a pretty significant lifestyle change is in order for all of them, which goes against the grain of their characters or b) they'll have more close calls until, one day, it's really too close, and they lose each other for good.

6. What’s the fic you’ve written with the happiest ending?

I almost always go for a happy/hopeful ending. It's hard to pick one, but it's probably gotta be one my fluffy domestic MacCready x Deacon x SoSu oneshots, Hungry Hearts. Ends with a big happy family moment.

7. Do you write crossovers?

Not yet, at least. I did once thoroughly outline and started drafting an AU that was basically the plot of Casino Royale with Deacon as Bond and MacCready as Vesper and other Fallout universe characters (like Mr. House) inserted in. I don't see myself going back to finish that one at this point.

8. Have you ever received hate on a fic?

Nah. I think I'm too small fry for that in terms of my audience size/reach and that's just fine with me. I'm cool tending this cozy little campfire over here.

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

Yeah! I mostly enjoy writing smut with a ton of feelings/history to it, (Warm Bodies is a super emotional comfort sex OT3 fic; Blood in the Mortar is an evil power couple with an established dynamic relishing in some power play and spicy use of their telepathic bond). But I've also dabbled in some kink exploration in Follow Suit, which plays a little bit with dom/sub dynamics and very light bondage.

I'm really looking forward to writing upcoming smut scenes for Midnight Chimes. Astarion's relationship with sex is such a huge part of his arc, and I'm looking forward to writing the smut scenes in a way that shows his own individual progression with that, and also how his relationship with Naomi deepens/changes over time.

10. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not to my knowledge.

11. Have you ever had a fic translated?

Also not to my knowledge.

12. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

Nope! I am so feast or famine with my writing process/preferences, I don't think I would make a great writing partner at this point. Maybe someday!

13. What’s your all-time favorite ship?

Ahh that's tough. It's really going to be, whichever is at the forefront of my mind at the moment. Currently, that's Astarion x Tav (especially my own Tav, who I'm doing a lot OC work/development for). But MacCready x Sole (Natasha) feel like, nostalgic, warm and fuzzy friends to me. I think my heart will always get soft when I think of them together (and with Deacon!).

Really, any ships I used to be more fixated on are just dormant and still have a space in my head/heart.

14. What’s a WIP that you want to finish but don’t think you ever will?

I could very well come full circle and feel the pull to deep dive into Fallout again (especially if the TV show turns out to be good, or if they release a new single-player game in the series), but the only further Fallout 4 fic I see myself finishing at this point is Bring the Gasoline (most likely by hermit drafting the rest of it and waiting to share further until I'm done). I think the amount of ideas I had, unfortunately, outmatched my motivation/hyperfixation on that universe. I had a lot of ideas for fics showing the actual OT3 relationship "negotiation" that I've had vivid daydreams about, and lots of wild notes for, but I don't have plans to pick up again at this point.

15. What are your writing strengths?

I get a lot of positive feedback on my action scenes. Also a lot of feedback that my writing is really vivid/visceral/immersive. I think I'm good at putting the reader in the character's shoes/in the heat of a moment, and wrapping them into the character's thoughts/feelings right off the bat. I also feel like character work, generally, is a strong suit of mine (character voice, mannerisms, individuality).

Something that has been really touching to hear is how well people respond to my OCs. I've done a lot of work to make unique/compelling/flawed original characters that readers can get invested in. I am still absolutely floored by some of comments I've gotten re: Natasha (my Sole Survivor). And although Naomi (Tav) is a newer character in my arsenal, I've gotten to play with some alternate (evil) versions of her, and folks seem to be intrigued by both.

16. What are your writing weaknesses?

Echoing Riss on the crutch words and phrases. I do have some editing steps I use to try to mitigate this. In the past, I've also had a bad habit of transposing/mingling words from different fantasy universes (mirelurk vs. mudcrab; Storm Coast vs. Sword Coast) without even realizing I'm doing it. I'm hyperconscious about that, now.

I also struggle to be concise. I made a commitment to work more on this this year, and in doing so, am trying to strike a balance with it. Ideally, if I have a lot of words, there should be a certain density of ideas/information being shared. So, if a fic gets long because it's packing a lot of punch that way, I don't want to cut it off unless it's too much to share at once. If it's long just because I'm being wordy, well, maybe that comes down to self-confidence, and me needing to let my words stand on their own without so much hedging/propping up.

17. What are your thoughts on writing dialogue in other languages in a fic?

I've experimented with this (and now cringe about it in retrospect), but hey, I think it takes some trial and error to figure out what works. My general preference is to write the lines in the language being used for the bulk of the fic, but then add a phrase like "X character said in Elvish" after. I think the less the writer knows of the other language themselves, the more they should err away from writing a lot in it. I think short phrases or single words in a different language can also be to great effect (as long as they're properly researched/understood).

18. What was the first fandom you wrote for?

Warrior Cats as a kid loose on the internet 😺

19. What’s a fandom/ship you haven’t written for yet but want to?

I want to write some Shadowheart/Karlach smut! I'm a little intimidated as I've yet to add F/F to my smut fic punch card, and I wanna get a free sub but I think they have so much angsty sweet potential and I already have a little outline for it!

20. What’s your favorite fic you’ve written?

Bring the Gasoline will always be my baby. It's my first real fic, and the thing that got me through a lot of ups and downs. I poured so much of myself into it.

But for now, I have to go with Blood in the Mortar. I just had an absolute blast writing it. It gave me confidence back in a way I really needed. It made me feel like I'd grown in skills I'd been working on for a while (particularly with writing dialogue and smut, and character work in general). I got to write villains, really for the first time, and was surprised I had so much fun with it. It was the perfect blend of challenge and getting back into my element, and writing/sharing it felt really uplifting. Felt like letting my hair down, hehe.

[astarioffsimpmain]

The Cozy Up Series

Week 1:

Astarion

Week 2:

Gale

Week 3:

Halsin

Week 4:

Wyll

Week 5:

Raphael

Week 6:

Ascended Astarion

Week 7:

Lae'zel

Week 8:

Shadowheart

Week 9:

Karlach

[tacogoats]

more dark urge thoughts for my durge oc Ilryn

All of this is with the idea that he was simply going to be 'slightly evil-er Veren, who is my first dark urge who went the redeemed route + the Spawn ending for Astarion, his LI:

So in his playthrough I really wanted to get Minthara but didn't want to slaughter the whole grove; unfortunately the end result is the same if you simply skip it nowadays. It was patched. (Basically you would redeem Kagha and then simply just leave to act 2; it got patched while I was doing it and when my game updated it locked me out - Halsin is always dead if you go back to act 2 and the Tieflings hadn't survived anyway. Big F)

Because of this I have opted to play with his character being very self-serving: he didn't help the Tieflings because he wouldn't get anything out of it, and helping the Goblins slaughter them wouldn't net him anything either. (He did juggle the idea of doing it to cozy up to the cult leaders but preferred being an unknown, knowing what he did about how True Souls were regarded, he could slip by well enough anyway, so what was the point? Exhausting himself? Naaahhh.)

I've also been juggling with the idea of him letting Gale ascend to godhood but still appeasing Bhaal and maybe instead I will simply let him offer Gale the chance to rule with him; which admittedly horrifies Gale for a while but if he cannot attain godhood then maybe the next best thing? (Also Ilryn flat out tells him it's that or become a slave and he would oh so hate for his Favourite to be a mindless little puppet. Sorry Gale...)

Like I'm too brain mush rn to figure out how I want the ascension to happen while still keeping the crown on the Brain but alternatively he could offer the chance to rule and let him Experiment on using the Crown while still maintaining control over the Brain. Ilryn really wants his special person (Gale) to live - and he KNOWS the only way Bhaal can't really reach him is if he ascends, but if he can't do it, he can't do it. Papa Bhaal is #1 by a tiny margin, sadly.

I'm so Durgetash pilled I had to shove it into Gale/Durge oops

[brabblesblog]

Oh. My. God. Thank you my love!!!! I see his visit to your brain was productive!!!!

Jokes aside, this is such an amazing gift to wake up to. THANK YOU ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Cozy Up with: Ascended Astarion

[Autumn Photography by: coldoctober]

[Ascendant Photography by: @brabblesblog]

Author's Note:

This week's Cozy Up is inspired by "Whither is thy beloved gone?" and its sequels by @brabblesblog! Her Ascended Astarion is definitely my favorite rendition of him, and it was her series that inspired me to give the Ascendant a chance. So that version of him is written here! So thank you for the inspiration, Ban! It got just a liiiittle horny. I promise I tried to reign him in.

“Darling,” he murmured softly against the shell of your ear. You gasped quietly, every movement, every touch, every sound a new sensation. The silk blindfold over your eyes was caressed by a skilled finger, the lids of your eyes outlined tenderly before the faint pressure disappeared. “Do you know where we are?” His voice lilted in your ear and you smiled. This was a new game he liked to play: take away a sense and have you guess something. 

You tuned in to the senses you still had, the vampiric blood in you pumping more fervently as you honed your focus in on your surroundings. Rustling; clothes? No. People? No… leaves. Yes. Then you heard them: crickets in the distance, chirping over the palace wall. Yet, you stood on concrete. The breeze picked up ever so slightly and brushed the gauzy sleeve of your gown against your skin, so soft that it tickled. Were you in the greenhouse? No, there would be servants still there at this hour. Save for the sounds of nature and your lover's breath in your ear, it was silent. 

You smiled again and turned to face him. “The balcony of the garden,” you said, and heard his chuckle before you felt nimble fingers removing the blindfold. As the fabric fell away, he came into your view; your magnifiscentlove, grinning down at you. 

“Very good, my love. You're getting better. You'll have masterful control of those lovely powers of yours in no time at all.” He quirked an eyebrow in amusement and you laughed in return. 

“So, why are we here, Astarion?” Your gaze swept the garden below, your discerning eyes not catching onto his plans just yet. 

“Well, my sweet, come and see.” With this, he turned from you and made his way to the grand staircase that would spiral down onto the garden path below. He turned halfway back to you with expectation and you stepped up even with him. He held out his hand, and you took it, the warmth of his soft skin easing the chill of yours. He guided you down the steps with all the grace of a perfect gentleman and once you reached the bottom, he twirled you around before pulling you under his arm and turning your chin in the direction of his secret. 

You gasped again, your surprise etched into every feature. “Astarion,” you breathed. “It's beautiful!” You felt him straighten up beside you and knew he was positively preening. Before you was a host of flickering lights under a canopy of leaves and branches, with a small table and two chairs pulled up on one side. There was a feast laid out for two places, yours of which you knew had been cooked with the freshest blood possible; Astarion never allowed any less. 

“Our anniversary is soon,” he whispered in your ear, placing tender kisses along the shell and sending shivers down your spine. 

“It’s a month away, my love.” you chuckled.

“All the more reason to begin the celebration now,” he replied, his lips continuing to make a path down your neck, paying special attention to your sensitive bite marks. You sighed and gave him better access, expecting more, but all at once, his warm lips were gone and you were left in suspense. You huffed and he chuckled. “Come, darling, our dinner is getting cold.” He took your hand once more and let you to your chair, which he pulled out for you with a flourish. You smiled and sat, watching his graceful movements as he took his place next to you. “To us, and our eternal love and glory.” He raised his goblet towards you and you returned the gesture.

“To us, and to a love that will never die.” You gently clanked your goblet against his and took a sip of the rich red blood. “Mmm, I know this taste,” you hummed, taking another sip to swirl on your tongue. You shot a bemused glance up at your husband, whose grin could rival the Chessire cat’s. 

“Oh?” was his only response.

“Mhm. I usually procure it more… intimately,” you teased, raising your lover's free hand to kiss the tip of each finger.

“Well, I always have more to spare,” he murmured, growing close enough to kiss the tip of your nose. 

“Mm, I thought dinner would grow cold,” you said, pulling back and turning your attention to the delicious food in front of you. Only Astarion could somehow manage to find a way to make real food enjoyable to your vampiric palette again. 

“Ah, right you are, my sweet,” he agreed smoothly. But you felt his fingers ghosting along your thigh as you both continued your meal. 

“So my husband can still focus on more than one thing at a time,” you chortled quietly, satisfaction blooming in your stomach when those nimble digits wrapped around your upper thigh in warning.

“I can, my love, shall I remind you just how proficient I am at it?” 

“Hmm…” you pondered, taking a couple more bites of juicy meat. “Can anyone hear us out here?”

Astarion chuckled dangerously, his hand sliding further up your thigh. “I can make certain they do.” 

“My love, I would expect nothing less.”

~

fin