#f!druid

[swindlefingrs]

Kennach the Wanderer 🐻

[badjanet420]

save a horse, ride a man that has shape shifted into a bear

[a-fantastic-time]

Ass of the Tempest!!! (Open RP)

Keyleth did her best at being the leader of her people, and a spiritual guide for the wild mother. But she missed the days of pub crawling around Tal’Dorei and hanging out with her friends. She had snuck out of one of her many banquets, and made her way to the nearest tavern. Where she finally got some hard stuff after so many years. A few too many mugs had finally did the trick, and the fat assed druid was clapping her ass to the bard's songs.

"Haha~ Yes, this is exactly what I needed. Anyone need a monster slain, or maybe have a monster for me to enjoy?"

She hiccups loudly and continued to toss back drink after drink, not realizing how much of a crowd she was pulling in.

[quizzievivicalavellan]

Rescue

In which a brush with danger leads to Aster being gravely injured and true feelings coming to light. Takes place after Gale's attempt at flirting in Act II. Pretending that there aren’t multiple super-easy ways to revive dead party members because it really kills the tension lol.

AO3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/53341882/chapters/146060362

***********************************************

Internally, Gale was kicking himself. The effect a brush with danger has on one’s desire for other forms of stimulation? Seriously? What had he been thinking?

Well, he knew what he had been thinking.

Ever since Elminster’s visit to their campsite, Gale’s mind was seemingly capable of focusing on only two subjects. One, the great and terrible burden Mystra had so dispassionately thrust upon him. The other, her. While his feelings toward her had been strong before, in the wake of his impending mortality, they had become all-consuming. Her every action, every part of her, endeared her to him further. The practiced flick of her wrist as she called down lightning. The dimple in her left cheek when she smiled. The way she quietly whistled birdsongs during their long walks. As he had said earlier whilst thoroughly embarrassing himself, he found her quite irresistible.

Unfortunately, now more than ever, he doubted that she shared similar feelings. All the way back at the Grove, when he had offered to teach her a bit of magic, he had seen her imagine kissing him through their connection in the Weave, and it had sparked some hope that she might be interested in him. In their travels since, their conversations had been easy and sometimes casually flirtatious, but if she did have deeper feelings, she had not acted on them. And now, ever since they had entered the Shadow-Cursed Lands, she had grown increasingly distant. He saw that lovely smile of hers less and less. In this dismal place, so close to the looming threat of Moonrise Towers, her burdens must have felt heavier than ever, and it pained him that he could no longer lighten them with a joke or a reassuring word. One of the few things he had been able to offer her, and now even that was not enough.

And that dreadfully worded confession certainly had not helped. She had smiled, likely out of pity or embarrassment, but it had not reached her eyes. As kind as she was, she likely just didn’t have the heart to let him down gently.

Gale looked ahead and realized he had fallen behind while wallowing in self-pity. Halsin’s torch at the front of the group had shrunk to a small glowing dot in the endless shadow. Halsin and Aster were at the head of the party, looking for signs of where they might find the other half of Thaniel. Gale was supposed to be in the middle with Shadowheart and Lae’zel, but they had moved well ahead of him by now. Karlach and Wyll had stayed behind to strategize with Jaheira as Karlach got used to the adjustment Dammon had made for her mechanical heart. Which, at the rear of the party, left…

“So, Gale, how is your sad, hopeless pining going?” Astarion asked as he appeared from the shadows.

Ah, speak of the devil. Or the vampire, in this case. Gale started in spite of himself at the rogue’s sudden appearance.

“Not very well, I take it, given that abysmal display. You know, I could give you some pointers; I am very good at that sort of thing,” Astarion bragged with a self-satisfied smile.

Gale groaned. “So you heard that, I take it.”

Astarion laughed. “Every word, unfortunately for you.”

“Just wonderful,” Gale replied, voice dripping with sarcasm. As if it weren’t enough to embarrass himself in front of her, it seemed everyone had witnessed his humiliatingly poor attempt at flirtation. Begrudgingly, Gale admitted to himself that he was envious of the way Astarion was so effortlessly smooth and confident, but he was wary of any offer of help from the duplicitous rogue.

“And why exactly would you help me?” Gale asked, raising a dubious eyebrow.

“At first, it was amusing to watch you two make longing puppy-dog eyes at each other, but at this point it’s just sad,” Astarion replied, absently twirling a knife in his hand. “Without someone to intervene, I fear your mutually oblivious pining would go on forever.”

“Mutual…?”

“Oh, Gale. I know from… experience when an individual is attracted to someone, and it is quite obvious that she likes you. Now, as to why, I have absolutely no idea –”

Just as Gale was rolling his eyes in response, Astarion was interrupted by a shout from ahead. The two of them broke into a run. Gale called upon the Weave, preparing for a fight, but his human eyes had trouble picking out their attackers in the dark.

When they caught up to the others, the fight was already in full swing. A horde of shadows and their cursed Harper victims had ambushed them. Lae’zel was cutting through enemies with ease, Shadowheart struck down shadows with her radiant cleric magic, and Halsin in bear form clawed viciously at the attackers, but more and more kept spilling out of the darkness.

Aster had been calling on her druid magic over nature, but these cursed lands weakened her power, and she was quickly surrounded. Just as he lost sight of her, an owlbear erupted from amidst the circle of shadows and Harpers. He had never seen her take the shape of an owlbear before, and the sight of the massive creature rending attackers with beak and claws was striking to behold.

Just as she had started turning the tide of the battle, however, the shadows redoubled their attack against her, and it proved too much. She began losing hold of her form, a new wild shape not yet mastered, now writhing in agony as a gruesome, twisted amalgamation of owlbear and gnome.

“Aster!” Gale cried out in a pained voice and rushed toward her, incinerating every enemy in his path. By the time he reached her she had lost hold of the shape entirely and was lying unconscious on the ground, covered in blood and bruises.

The others were rushing over to help, but Gale warned them to stay back with an outstretched hand. He drew upon the Weave, summoning immense power and channeling it out into a massive fiery explosion. The shadows and Harpers disintegrated, and the swath of cursed forest in front of them had been reduced to ash.

With the threat eliminated, he knelt down beside her, getting a closer look at her injuries. It did not look good. She was badly hurt, with multiple gashes bleeding heavily, and her breathing was shallow. Please be alright, he thought, I’m sorry I did not get her faster, I should have- I- I’m sorry…

“Shadowheart, can you…?” Gale managed to say around the lump in his throat.

Shadowheart nodded, and her hands began to glow with her divine cleric abilities. She passed her hands over Aster’s body. The bleeding slowed and her breath steadied, but she did not awaken.  

“I have healed the worst of her injuries, but she needs rest. We should get back to Last Light Inn as quickly as possible,” Shadowheart said when her work was finished.

Halsin had started to reach out his thick, strong arms to lift her up, but Gale beat him to it. Gently, he slid one arm under her knees and the other beneath her back and raised her off the ground. Even being a gnome, she was lighter than he expected, taking little effort even for his far thinner arms to lift her. She looked so small and fragile there collapsed in his arms. Guilt washed over him again for falling behind, for not protecting her from those creatures. He promised himself then that if she made it through this, please, please make it through this, he would keep her safe. He would protect her, whatever the cost. 

“Follow me, I know the fastest path back to the inn,” Halsin said, once again lifting his torch high into the air. Before starting off, he placed one of his large hands on Gale’s shoulder and gave him an empathetic smile.

“Shadowheart is a skilled healer,” he said in a soft, reassuring tone, “She will be fine.”

Gale could only pray that he was right.

*********

Everything hurt. Aster’s eyelids felt as heavy as bricks as she struggled to open them, and the bright candlelight that peeked through felt like it was stabbing into her skull. She tried to sit up but groaned at the sharp pain the movement sent through her ribs.

She felt the gentle press of a hand against her shoulder, encouraging her to stay still. She managed to open her eyes the rest of the way and turned her head toward the hand. Gale was there sitting next to her.

“Aster, thank goodness you’re awake,” he said, the relief in his voice almost palpable, but with a twinge of worry still present. “How are you feeling?”

“I’ve –” Aster winced, trying to sit up again, “been better.”

She felt the soft push on her shoulder again. “Rest there, don’t try to move. I brought some things for you – potions to help with the pain, a blanket if you’re cold, or a cool cloth if you’re feverish, an extra pillow –” he rambled.

“The potion would be nice,” Aster interrupted.

“Of course. Here.” She felt the rim of a glass vial against her lips and swallowed the sweet, viscous potion.

“Mmm,” Aster moaned pleasantly, the effects of the potion already taking hold. A soothing warmth spread through her, taking the edge off the pain and clearing her thoughts. “Thank you. That feels much better.”

“Is there anything else I can do for you?” Gale asked.

Aster noted the sticky feeling the potion had left in her mouth. “Some water would be nice, if you have some.”

“Water, of course! Why did I not think to – I’ll go fetch some. Rest there, I will return shortly,” he said, already halfway out the door before he finished speaking.

“You don’t –” have to, Aster had started to say, but he was already gone. A few moments later, two others entered the room.

 “Hey soldier!” Karlach greeted, “Good to see you awake.”

“How are you feeling?” Wyll asked as the two of them sat down beside the bed. “When the others brought you to the inn, you were in bad shape. I’m sorry we weren’t there.”

Aster waved away the unnecessary apology. “I feel better than when I first woke.” She sat up to both test and prove her point. It still sent a stab of pain through her side, but it was much more tolerable now. “What happened? How long was I asleep? I remember an ambush… and then I woke up here.”

“Yes, you were ambushed by shadows,” Wyll answered, “Halsin said you changed into an owlbear, but could not hold the shape, and those hideous creatures got the better of you. Gale incinerated them and the party rushed you back to the inn. You’ve been unconscious for hours.”

“Poor Gale,” Karlach added, “He’s been absolutely beside himself. He’s only left this room to go get things for when you woke up. You know he carried you the whole way back here? It’s sweet, how he cares about you.”

Aster smiled shyly and felt warmth in her cheeks, touched to learn of Gale’s rescue and by his attentiveness in looking after her.

Wyll cleared his throat, “Perhaps this is not the time or the place, but I have to ask, I get the feeling that you care for him too. Am I correct?”

Aster nodded and looked away, embarrassed that her feelings were so obvious.

“Have you told him that?” Wyll pried further.

“Not exactly…”

“Why not?” Karlach asked. “Gale may be a genius about some things, but I have a feeling he wouldn’t recognize flirting if it smacked him in the face. I wouldn’t wait for him to make the first move.”

“It’s… complicated,” Aster replied, loathe to explain her reservations, fears, and insecurities. However, looking at how eager Karlach and Wyll looked for her to continue, she supposed she would not get away with that answer. Perhaps it would do her some good to talk about all the worries that had been plaguing her.

“Well, for starters, there’s his tumultuous relationship and fallout with Mystra. It has not been long since things turned sour, and it devastated him. I worry that he is just looking for someone to… fill the void she left. And how am I meant to compare to a goddess?”

“That fucker that asked him to kill himself for her? I’d say you’ve got her beat by a mile,” Karlach replied indignantly.

Wyll gave Karlach a look before sharing his own advice. “Love is not something to be compared; each is its own unique and beautiful thing. And it is clear to me that he loves you, truly, not as a replacement, but as yourself.”

Aster smiled at her friends’ reassurances, but a deeper fear still weighed on her. “Mystra’s task for him worries me as well. I’m afraid I will not be able to convince him not to go through with it. And I’m afraid that if we – if we become something more to one another…” Her throat felt tight, making it harder to speak, and tears stung her eyes. “then it will… it will hurt even worse to lose him.”

“Oh, Aster, come here,” Karlach said with open arms, and Aster accepted the offered hug gratefully. “I know losing someone hurts. But take some advice from someone who’s living on borrowed time herself. Do you know the thing I want most for the time I have left?”

Aster shook her head.

“To not have any regrets. The best we can do is live fully, to embrace whatever opportunities life gives us.”

Wyll nodded. “As the saying goes, ‘tis better to have loved and lost than never loved at all.’ Regret eats at the soul like nothing else does.”

And they were right. If she opened up to him, let herself love and be loved in return, then she would always have the memories of the time they had together, even if the worst happened. Otherwise, she would still be left to suffer the pain and loss, along with the grief for what could have been.

Aster wiped the tears from her eyes. “Thank you. You are the best friends anyone could ask for.” She hugged them both again.

“Aww, so are you!” Karlach replied, hugging her a little too tight in return.

“Always happy to be there for a friend,” Wyll said as he returned her embrace.

At that moment, Gale arrived at the door, jug of water in hand. “Sorry I took so long,” Gale said as he handed the jug over to Aster, who took a long, refreshing swig.

“Well, glad to see you’re feeling better. Karlach and I will go tell the others you’re awake,” Wyll said, getting up from one of the chairs beside the bed.

“Yeah, we’ll go do that,” Karlach added, following Wyll out the door. “No need to hurry though, just take our time…” She winked at Aster as she left.

Gale sat back down next to the bed. “Are you feeling any better?”

“Yes, thank you. Those potions work wonders.”

“Good, good. Glad to hear it.”

They sat there in awkward silence for a moment before Aster worked up the nerve to tell him how she really felt and apologize for how distant she had been lately, spurred on by her conversation with Wyll and Karlach.

 “There’s… something I want to tell you,” Aster said, taking one of Gale’s hands in her own.

“I want to tell you something too, I…” the pause was so long that Aster spoke again, only then they were both talking at the same time.

“I’m sorry,” they both blurted out in unison.

“For what?” they asked, once again at the same time.

Aster chuckled, which caused the pain in her side to flare up again, and the chuckle turned into a wince.

“I’m sorry,” Gale said again, clearly referring to the laughter-induced pain this time.

“You said that already,” Aster replied with a more careful chuckle. “What do you have to be sorry for?”

“I was distracted earlier, when we were looking for Thaniel. I fell behind the group, wasn’t paying attention… I should have been in position; maybe then you would not have been hurt like this. I’m sorry, I should have done more to keep you safe.” Gale said, clasping both hands around hers.

“There is nothing to apologize for. Things happen, especially in such perilous situations as we find ourselves in. I hear you were the one who saved me, after all,” Aster said with a coy smile. 

“Still, I am sorry – and relieved that you’re alright. Now, whatever reason do you have to apologize? You’ve done nothing wrong.”

“I have, though.” Aster took a deep breath, preparing herself to finally open up. “I know I have been… distant and ill-tempered as of late. I’ve been upset and angry about so many things, but that is no excuse to treat you that way, especially when you’ve been having such a difficult time of your own. I’m deeply sorry about that.”

“No need to apologize; it can’t be easy to bear the burdens that have been placed on you: defeating Ketheric, lifting the shadow curse, stopping the Absolute. But know that you can always unburden yourself with me, if you need someone to talk to.”

“You’re too kind,” Aster replied, “Yes, those do weigh on me, and it is difficult to witness the destruction the shadow curse has wrought on nature here. But there is another thing that worries me even more. Mystra… It angers me that she thinks she has any right to ask that of you, and that she could make you feel like she’s right.” Aster felt her ire toward the goddess roiling inside like fire, and her arms shook in anger. “You’re smart, and brave, and talented, and kind, and you deserve so much better than being her sacrifice.”

Gale looked surprised at her response. “I… wasn’t aware it bothered you so much.”

“Of course it does! I care about you, and I – I don’t…” Aster felt the tears pricking at her eyes again. “I don’t want to lose you,” she whispered, brushing a hand across his cheek. She wanted to peer into his thoughts, see if he was still genuinely considering going through with it, convince him how much she needed him, but she knew that was an invasion of his privacy. She could only show him how much she cared about him and hope that that would be enough.

“I don’t want to lose you, either,” Gale whispered back, leaning closer to her. “I was so worried about you.”

“Then let’s look after each other, and find another way to defeat the Absolute. We can make it through this together, alright?”

“Alright.”

A nervous, anticipatory silence stretched between them, and Aster realized their lips were mere inches apart.

Gale cleared his throat and leaned back in his chair. “Well, it’s getting late. I suppose I should let you rest, yes?”

Gale started to stand up, but Aster tugged him back down by his sleeve.

“Wait, I… I haven’t thanked you properly yet for rescuing me.”

“You don’t need to –” Gale started to reply, but Aster cut him off with a kiss. He was clearly surprised at first, but quickly he was kissing her back, their mouths dancing passionately with long-building desire and anticipation of this very moment.

His lips were soft, and he tasted like a fine red wine, rich with a touch of sweetness. There was an arousing electricity to the kiss, as if sparks were literally flying between them, and considering Gale’s magic, that was probably true. It was everything she had imagined and more.

When they finally pulled away from each other, Aster was delighted to see the big, goofy grin on his face, the flush in his cheeks, and his hair tousled out of place by her fingers. He looked happier than he had in a while, and for her part Aster was so elated she felt like she could fly.

“Well,” Gale said in a low, seductive whisper as he leaned in to kiss her again, “remind me to rescue you more often.”

[sandstormjoneshusband]

After so long doomscrolling utdr subreddits where you’re exposed to constant casual transphobia, it is nice to go onto the btd6 subreddit where the worst problem is that everyone is smug and annoying

[luthoniel]

My Brightest Star - Chapter 3: The vampire spawn

A couple of days has passed since the group of unfortunate adventurers were infected by the illithid tadpole. To their surprise, they have not yet turned. One night, Luthoniel is awakened by a surprise, Astarion looming over her, just about to bite into her neck. For the first time since their meeting she sees him for what he truly is; a vampire.

[ardentcounselor]

looks at bg3 and considers putting my precious werewolf cleric gf on the f/o list... with my misty s/i ooooo....

[zomboyfren]

Something about me is I have to make everything about my f/os

[stairnaheireann]

The Celts of Ancient Ireland

The first historical record of the Celts was by the Greeks about 700 BC, the Celts were a loose grouping of tribes that lived in an area north of the Alps around the Danube river in central Europe. Over the next few hundred years they spread east and west across Europe. The Celts first arrived in Ireland about 500 BC, there is no reliable information on how or when the Celts became the dominant…

[word-ghost]

sunspots // 3

The violet glow builds to a blinding white that leaves shadows behind in Ara’s vision when it fades. In that dark instant, she notes the first change: the quiet absence of Gale’s unsettled aura. Next, his steadied breathing.

Her eyes adjust to find his glistening brow, relaxed but etched with reminders of worry and discomfort. Still, Ara has never seen him so unburdened. 

Neither has she clearly seen the mark on his chest until his hand falls away. Dark, like a tattoo, incised into his skin.

“At present, I do not possess the capacity to sufficiently express my gratitude.” Gale’s voice no longer rasps. It comes clear and strong as if he hadn’t been feverish and out of breath a moment ago. “Thank you is not enough, but— thank you.”

Shimmers of thin chain drip between his fingers as he places the pendant in her hand. What looks like a singe on the silver surface leaves soot on her fingers. Old grief pricks at Ara’s heart like a sliver of glass.

“You’re better?”

“Fortunately for me, the treatment’s effect is rather immediate.” As well as he might feel, his smile does not return so readily. “I’m sure you must have questions.”

Ara hasn’t so much as nodded before he says, “I swear to tell you everything. In time. I— I need a bit more time.”

His dark gaze holds hers. Ara chooses not to protest despite her skin-prickling fascination. 

The glow— what could have caused it? And that twisty unevenness that surrounded him until he consumed a thread of pure magic— what sort of ailment is this?

Curious as she might be,  Ysara  knows some truths are better held close. Until the right time, if it should ever arrive.

keep reading

[swindlefingrs]

Your kind are weak, and this world has been wasted on the crusades of the unworthy.

[xaeydnquartz]

English: She did not want the shard

Japanese: Kanojo wa sono hahen o hoshikunakatta

German: Sie wollte die Scherbe nicht

Spanish: Ella no quería el fragmento

Chinese: Tā bùyào suìpiàn

Korean: geunyeoneun papyeon-eul wonhaji anh-assda Italian: Non voleva il frammento Arabic: lam takun turid alqishra French: Elle ne voulait pas du tesson Hindi: vah theekara nahin chaahatee thee Less formal English: Dudes, she didn't want that stupid %^*&ing shard. [please forgive the potentially very poor translation, this was just a "for fun" post i thought of and put together in a few minutes with google translate xD lol]

[thechaoticdruid]

Sometimes I see other people's fem Tavs looking like beautiful princess like goddesses with their sexy clothes and long luscious hair and then I just picture Winnie showing up to meet the other tavs messy haired and dressed in probably sweatpants as she scratches her ass and yawns obnoxiously loud.

[varlaisvea]

respectfully? ma'am? your reasoning for holding a tourney where the prize was marrying your daughter is the absolute stupidest thing i have heard in my travels. and let me just say, i am the vestige of coldharbour and i have heard some monumentally stupid shit in my travels. this is it. the dumbest shit i've heard.

[quizzievivicalavellan]

After Everything

In which Aster (Tav) begs Gale not to seek solace in the abyss. A little rework of the conversation near the end of Act 2 to heighten the drama.

***********************************************

Words are not strong enough to describe the sheer terror of witnessing an Elder Brain. A massive and monstrous mind laid bare, tentacles writhing in the miasmic air of the dark cavern. Aster stared, frozen in fear, her heart pounding and her mind racing wordlessly. Finally, a single sentence emerged amidst the senseless buzzing thoughts.

What in all Nine Hells have I gotten myself into?

The touch of a hand on her shoulder brought her back to reality. She looked up at Gale, his face alight with a look of wonder that stood in sharp contrast to her own horror.

“Look at that crown. It radiates with power unlike anything I’ve ever seen. To have it… to hold… if only I could…”

His face darkened, and he inhaled slowly, a deep, steadying breath. “But I can’t… This is it. I must do as Mystra commands.”

“Mystra doesn’t know what a strong team we have here,” Karlach placed a comforting hand on Gale’s shoulder. “We can win this fight, right guys?” Lae’zel, Shadowheart, and Wyll nodded, weapons ready. 

"Yes, if it's all the same to you, I'd rather not explode," Astarion chimed in, glowering at Gale. 

"Do not worry, you need not pay for my mistakes. I can spirit you all away to safety before unleashing the orb. If I just release its power, this can all be over, here and now. Everyone will be safe," Gale said, staring at Aster with a small, bittersweet smile. 

As terrified as Aster was of the Elder Brain, she was even more scared of the look of resolve in Gale's eyes. This is what she had been most afraid of, why she had hesitated to get closer to Gale. The closer she got, the more this moment would hurt. Naively, after the night they had shared together, she thought he had finally abandoned this self-destructive crusade. He had said that morning after that she had led him away from the precipice, that she had reminded him what living could feel like. She had believed him.

And yet, even after everything she had said, everything they had shared, after entwining their very souls, he was still going to go through with it. 

"Gale, please, don't do this," Aster begged. 

“What choice do I have? More than just a goddess counts on my courage; whole worlds hang in the balance.” 

“You could choose to find another way with me. With us, people that care about you. Please. I love you. I… I need you.” Her voice shook. Tears pricked at Aster’s eyes and she buried her face in Gale’s robes. Her hands clenched at the fabric as if she could keep him here by simply not letting go. She was sure she looked pathetic, pleading and crying and clutching at his robes like a child for everyone to see, but for once she didn’t care. 

Gale knelt down before her to meet her eyes, “I love you too. Much more than myself. More even than Mystra.” He brushed a tear from her cheek. “And I trust you. If you think there is another way, then I trust we will find it.”

“We will,” Aster whispered. She pulled him closer and kissed him, savoring his presence. Ketheric, the tadpole, the Elder Brain; everything faded away until only the two of them remained. 

“Tch,” Lae’zel interrupted, “This is not the time for sentimentality. We have a battle to fight.”

“Oh, come on, let them have a moment,” Karlach countered, “Ketheric’s not going anywhere, and he’ll be equally dead when we’re done with him,” she said, pounding her fist into her palm. 

Gale stood and looked out into the dark cavern with newfound resolve to find another way forward. He grasped his staff with both hands and looked back at Aster. 

“Ready?” he asked. 

Aster nodded. At that moment, she felt ready to face anything.

[dragon-fics]

(DnD) A Noble Scheme pt. 2

Summary: The plan has hatched! A new mage is in Waterdeep. Will your parents approve?

Warnings: don't think anything apply

Relationships: Claugiyliamatar & Reader, Evangeline/Evan X Reader

Characters: Claugiyliamatar (DnD), Evangeline/Evan (OC), Reader

Tags: arranged marriage, wlw / f/f romantic, slow burn(?), enemies to lovers, cross-dressing, controlling parents

word count: 2300

Based on my own lil love story

“Are you certain about this?” I said as I helped Evangeline fix her outfit, dusting off the broad shoulders she’d given herself beneath the purple velvet suit. She was taller now, with shorter curly hair and more angled features. A fine-looking young man, I’m sure the other women would say.

She sighed. “Of course I’m certain,” she grumbled. Her voice was so much deeper.

I brushed off her coat. “Alright… remember, midday, (S/N) Estate. Money and—”

“—staff.”

I pursed my lips together and looked at her eyes. I fixed the family crest pinned on her jacket. It was a flat oval, with an outstanding gold dragon on a green backdrop, gold filigree decorating the edges. “Don’t skimp out—”

“—on accessories. And keep my—”

“—head high.” I stood back and crossed my arms, looking over her outfit. “You look like a smart gentleman, coming to preserve a long line of mage blood.”

She snorted, amused. “Your parents will be oh so disappointed.”

I shrugged. “There’s worse fate and worse truths for them to know.” I sighed. “You look ready though. Maybe wander Waterdeep to get a feel of the place before coming to meet my parents?”

Evangeline nodded. “Sure. Then Evan Dragonclaw will come along and woo them, and you.” She winked and bowed, forearm to her chest.

I covered my mouth to stifle my laugher but failed. “Who?!” I doubled over laughing.

She lifted her head and stared at me.

“Evan who?!” I repeated, howling.

Evangeline stood up straight and cleared her throat. “Dragonclaw?” she slowly questioned. “Is that not a good name?”

I picked myself up and sigh, wiping the tears from my eyes. I cleared my throat. “It’s a fine name. Just amusing. Hardly an unlikely name to have. You’ll need a story though; Where do you reign from? How did you hear about my family? And what can you offer?” I crossed my arms. “There may be a question about your name, so prepare to defend it.”

She nodded slowly, reaching for where her long hair would usually be, but met a tassel of her jacket. "Y-yeah. That makes sense.” Her hand fell to her shoulder, and she sighed softly, tooth digging into her lip.

I stepped closer, putting my hand on hers. “I’ll help you now,” I grabbed my handkerchief from my skirt and took the lead pencil from Evangeline’s pocket. “You reign from Neverwinter, and your family is pureblooded—like mine. At this point, you’re rooted in as many family trees as possible. The rest of the mage families will not unite with the Dragonclaws, as they have their own blood-related reasons. A grudge lasting a few generations or something.

“What can you offer? Pure mage blood, specialising in nature magic and wild-forms. A family fortune worth hundreds of platinum and gold, with some heirlooms and antiques. They’ll speak of my dowry, which you’ll have heard of; worth ten platinum to take my hand.” I scribbled it all down as I spoke and folded the handkerchief. I met Evangeline’s eyes. “Oh, and the function to give heirs through me and keep mage blood strong.” I put the handkerchief into her chest pocket and sighed. “How does that sound?”

Her face was flushed and after a stunned moment she nodded. “I think that’s pretty solid… I would’ve never thought people cared that much about uh, blood.”

I sighed and fixed my skirt, shaking the soil from the hem as the sun lit up its velvet shimmer. “They do unfortunately. And they care very much about it. How fun it is to be a cow to produce another mage, instead of a human who would like to follow her heart… not that they’d get a child that way either, I suppose.” I lifted my head.

Evangeline looked at me with those soft brown eyes, taking pity on me. “Hopefully, this will grant you some freedom.”

I smiled a little. “It should. Once I am wed, they won’t be watching me. I will be yours, or Evan’s, and then we’ll come to some arrangement ourselves.” For some reason, I wasn’t so bothered by the thought of it.

She shrugged and looked out at the cobblestoned road behind me, the main road between Waterdeep and Neverwinter. “Yes, we will come to an arrangement. If I am to make mother happy, that’d mean making you happy. She likes you a lot.”

I laughed softly. “I am aware. I quite like her too.” I stepped into the road. All was clear but the lunchtime gathering was about to arrive, the convoy not far in the distance. The sea lapped at the coast and glowed in the midday light. It felt hopeful.

I looked at Evangeline. “Let’s get going. The city will help you prepare your speech.”

*~*~*~*

They were the longest three hours of my life. I spent it fixing up myself, restyling my hair, donning a fresh green summer frock with a set of amethyst jewellery.

But even after that, she hadn’t arrived. I found myself burning through all the odd things I’d put off for who knows how long; reorganising my books, storing my paints, and sharpening my embroidery needles.

Mother was curious when she saw me.

“What’s gotten into you? You’ve been shoving this aside since last winter,” she said in disbelief, sitting across from me as I held the needle in my hand.

I bared my teeth as I pricked myself again. “Nothing. Just figured it was a good time.” She wouldn’t buy that.

“Oh? And why not last week when it was teeming? Or yesterday when your father had that boring bank meeting?” she crossed her arms.

I drew in a breath as a thought crossed my mind. I raised my head slowly.

“There’s a mage in town. From Neverwinter.”

Mother cocked a brow. “A mage?”

“A noble mage. In the finest suit I’ve seen, a crested badge on his chest. He’s in search of a maiden with a dowry.” I placed the needle on the desk beside me, urgency in my voice.

She seemed suspicious but let me continue.

“And he’s quite handsome. With a strong name, Dragonclaw! Have you ever heard such a name, Mother?” I jumped from my chair and turned my back to her, eyes fixated on the window overlooking the bazaar below.

“And you think he’s headed here?” I heard her skirts shift as she rose from the chair.

I nodded and spun around, the loose skirt of the frock adding to the excitement. “Oh yes! He asked at the gate! I was picking up the persimmons when he was asking.”

For a moment, her face was unreadable. It made me nervous. But then she beamed and hugged me close. “How wonderful! There might be luck for you yet.” The tapped my nose with her finger and stepped away. “I’ll let your father know to expect him. Dragonclaw was it?”

I nodded. “That’s him. Dressed in purple, green family crest.”

She tilted her head to me. “Very wise choice in dress then, (Y/N).” She grabbed the door handle. “Be ready. Stay fresh. I’ll send Alys when he’s here.” Mother rushed out the door and I was left thinking.

There might be luck for you yet.

*~*~*~*

It was the most awkward tea party of my life. But Evangeline—Evan, played his role perfectly.

And apparently, I didn’t do so bad either. Though it’s easy to be perceived as enthusiastic when you are enthusiastic. My interest let my parents release their hold on me quite a bit. Any excuse, they sent me to off to talk with him, even allowing him into the gardens of the estate; reserved for only the finest of family events.

“Are they still watching?” Evan whispered; arm linked in mine as we passed the buzzing rose garden.

Turned my head to look at him, smiling warmly. I turned my eyes as far as I could, seeing my parents watching from the balcony.

I sighed and returned my gaze forward. “Yep,” I said through a for-show smile. The smells of the garden were sweet and earthy. It was well taken care of by the servants. All the bushes were blooming, the flowerbeds were full, and the lawn lush.

“What do they think of me?” he took in the blossoming trees arching over the path, shadows falling upon us.

“You’re in the garden, left to saunter through as you wish. They love you.”

Evan nodded and plucked a purple blossom from the flowerbed below—violets. “Should I bring up the marriage soon?”

I nodded, watching her spin the flower in his hand. “Yes. Or someone else will ask.”

“Mother won’t let anyone—”

“—I know she won’t.” I cut him off, harsher than I intended. I sighed. “But we need to use their interest, praise and adoration of you soon or they will look for someone else. Ask for my father’s blessing. He’ll probably give it easily. Mother will give you a ring. It was my grandmother’s and her mother’s before that. They may request a way to be engaged, something they can attend and watch and celebrate. If you want to follow that, agree. If not, they’ll agree to you whisking me away for a night and we’ll pretend or… something.”

I released a slow breath. It wasn’t a façade anymore.

We stopped at the entryway to the gazebo, and I guided him in. We were well out of sight now.

“And what do you want?” Evan asked.

I lowered myself onto the blossom and leaf-covered bench. I looked up at him. “I want my parents to stop forcing men on me.”

He grumbled and sat beside me. “I know that. I mean, what kind of engagement do you want?”

I looked at my pastel pink dress and fixed the skirt. “Private. You and me. No illusion.” My heart thumped loudly. I could see her before me. “M-maybe for Claugiyliamatar to oversee it,” I continued, stumbling over my words. “If she likes. I don’t know if she’d have an interest, though.”

Evan turned to face me entirely. “I think she’d love to see it. Though she might have her servants set up a date for us or something.”

I thought. “Probably. I wouldn’t mind. You’ll need wedding guests, though. She’ll have to dress them up.” I met her gaze. Those eyes were still Evangeline’s; warm and big, the most caring gaze I’ve ever seen.

She noticed, looked around quickly, and deactivated the enchantment on the brooch. She brought her hands to my hair and carefully positioned the small flowers throughout my braid—she’d picked them up during my spiel probably. Evangeline smiled, a kind of smug grin but also deeply caring.

My heart fluttered.

Her dark hand came to my face, hand on my cheek as tucked a loose strand of hair behind my ear. “Can I admit something, (Y/N)?”

I swallowed thickly. I forced myself to nod. “Sure,” I croaked, my mouth dry.

“My mother isn’t the only one who admires you.” Her hand came forward, finger tracing my jaw. My skin tingled, heart raced at her touch again. “Turns out I like the women she aspires to be.”

I leaned forward, my face passing by her hand. This was my chance to make my choice. My lips touched hers. “I like you too.”

*~*~*~*

I the warmth of her kiss lingered as Evangeline pulled away, ring slipping onto my finger. The yellow and green lighting-orbs lit her up like the angel she was in this lush forest. I caught a glance down; it was my grandmother’s. A silver ring with a peridot set in it, very fitting.

Claugiyliamatar clapped and grinned, coming forward. “Congratulations!” She set herself down and put a claw on each of us. “It’s so delightful that it’s all working!”

Evangeline touched the claw on her shoulder. Masculine outfits suited her; the dark forest green of her dress shirt complimented her and matched Claugiyliamatar. “Me too, Mother. This way, we all get to have our happily ever after.” She looked at me with those deep, caring eyes she’d been watching me with.

I had to look away, getting flustered. This was my first time having anything close to this burst of feelings, to feel genuinely wanted and loved, and wanting to reciprocate those feelings.

Then Evangeline looked at Claugiyliamatar. “And I have something for you, Mother.” She looked at the servants.

“I’ll give you two some time.” I touched her shoulder and moved to step away.

“No. Stay. I can only give her this gift, thanks to you.” She smiled at me and then at her mother. “Please, send them away, Mother.”

Claugiyliamatar nodded and waved a claw at the musicians. Once they were gone, she looked at Evangeline.

She cleared her throat. “With thanks to, (Y/N), my love and lady, I made this for you.” She pulled out a gold necklace with the same dragon brooch as Evan had worn, with an emerald for the dragon’s backdrop. “It is for you to attend the wedding.” Evangeline raised her arms and Claugiyliamatar lowered her head. Evangeline wrapped the necklace carefully around Claugiyliamatar’s horn. It was quite a pretty accessory.

Claugiyliamatar’s eyes shone. “Oh, Eva!”

Evangeline wiped under her eyes. “Try imagine being shorter, Mother. That should trigger it.” with her practice of druid magic, Evangeline had tested wild forms before.

Claugiyliamatar closed her eyes and, after furrowing her brow for a moment, changed into a tall, thin and elegant woman with the necklace on her neck and long ash blonde hair. In the light, it seemed to be tinted green.

I looked away in shock, as she was naked, but I was smiling.

Claugiyliamatar had gotten her wish.