#plus how can I do that to Wyll???

[optiwashere]

I saw some discussion about Shadowheart's path, if Tav/Your character is dead when she confronts the Nightsong she will kill her 100% of the time. Saying that this is her "true" path and what she wants, how she only stops due to your presence. The DJ end is her "best" end due to her being confident and fulfilled, how she is actual quite an evil character due to torture etc. How it fits the lore better

All I can politely say is that I'm glad I isolate myself from most fandom spaces for this game, because this is a doozy.

She has to be memory wiped so many times because of how often she drifts back to questioning Sharran teachings and just being Very Bad at it. So I don't really buy "100%" of the time, but that's also because I personally believe nobody has absolute certainty in their morals and faith that certain situations wouldn't test.

There's kind of a whole section about that in the Shadowfell.

I don't even want to touch the Tav/PC comment. That's a barrel of worms that isn't worth opening.

For some folks, I think they just want something against the grain or not "typical" and so they naturally gravitate towards things like the Dark Justiciar ending. It's a different kind of wish fulfillment fantasy for them.

"I can make her worse" and all that. I don't think the reason people like that ending is because it's good for her lmao.

Long ramble while I'm on break ahead.

That said, a lot of people need to relearn critical thinking and practice emotional skills. Or they need to watch the full story side-by-side on both paths, because some of this shit is so blatant it's fascinating how some folks miss it.

I think assuming the A -> B -> C of "oh, she's a Sharran so she would strive to become a Dark Justiciar, there is no alternative character explanation for/against that" is a simple-minded approach.

It also, in my opinion, restricts people into very fundamentalist-adjacent viewpoints and thoughts. If someone was made to believe without a shadow of a doubt that they were born X way, or behaved Y way for Z years, then they must be that person forever and always. No, it doesn't work like that lol.

There's also no true path in this game until/if there's a sequel, because there's too many paths the characters can take. I use a lot of "I" statements and say "this is a theory/extratextual" in my opinions for that reason.

Aside #1: It's also why I take a lot of umbrage with anyone that says there's canon ships, or that there's ships that "obviously would happen." Maybe? Maybe not? It's just silly and far too self-restricting for no good reason. I get if you just want to ship one thing, but you don't have to justify it lol. Enjoy what you enjoy, but don't try to strongarm it into "canon" that doesn't really exist.

And saying it's "what she wants" and that she is confident and fulfilled is a load of shit lmao.

You (the royal you, not you, anon) have to have negative reading comprehension to put Shadowheart down that path and be like, "yeah, she loves this." It's so typical of an abuse victim to try and appease her abuser, and the Dark Justiciar route is her indulging in that. But to hear her lines in the romance afterwards, about how she can't really love the PC, combined with how she has to deal with her parents and how she retreats from being open about herself to being cold and distant once more...?

To say it's "right" for her is absolutely wild, and I despise the thought that there can't be happy endings or we can't want her to have a happy ending. I love fucked up stories with miserable endings, but I also love warm stories with joy and love and redemption at the end of it all.

It's also a massively surface-level read to say it's anything she wants. Sometimes people push themselves down paths they don't know how to retreat from, and the ends are often horrifying.

Aside #2: It's the same as if you cheat on her with Mizora. Like, she might be OK with relationships that are non-monogamous (if the player is) but the way the VA and writing and mocap combined in that scene make it painfully obvious that she is just trying to appease you to keep the relationship intact. Supremely typical abused person behavior, but now the PC is the abuser instead. Seeing people comment that she's OK with the Mizora situation is head-on-backwards level misreading.

She has done evil deeds in her past, sure. I think if you blanket claim she cannot be redeemed, you're going into some wild territory at the logical conclusion of that one. Her circumstances also alter how we interpret her past as well, and I think it intersects with my belief that compassion is a learned skill that not everyone cultivates.

Not to mention that everyone in the BG3 cast can be turned "evil" or at least made to do dark shit. "One True Way" types will never understand that there is a multitude of experiences, and it translates to this game as well.

And finally.

The lore?

Lol. Lmao even.

We know who the "real" Shadowheart is, but in some universes she destroys that person in order to foolishly seek approval from her abuser/goddess. In others, in mine for example, she abandons that goddess to embrace the person she's been forced to hide.

So yeah, my ultimate response to "Dark Justiciar Shadowheart is the real Shadowheart" is a big, wet fart noise.

[vagueiish]

tiny list of meme-y/comic-y ideas for if i ever git gud at arting:

1.

that 'are you tired of being nice? don't you just want to go apeshitt' meme with astarion and my tav, oliver (and a small follow up of his response)

2.

(based on this bit from the simpsons): *act three, in the elfsong suite. first shot is oliver in front of the fireplace, angled in such a way as to appear to be seated on a nearby sofa. he is staring intently into the fire. karlach watches him from a little ways away.* karlach, calling over to astarion: oy, fangs. think you might want to check in on oliver. he's, uh... lookin' kinda tense right now... astarion, dismissively: come, now. if he were anything but perfectly fine, i'd know *cut to reveal that oliver is actually so rigid that he's currently sitting on the air a good foot or two in front of the sofa, nothing to support him but his own leg muscles* astarion: ...ah.

[nysscientia]

okay but Wyll is like. a prodigy, actually. and I want to talk about that more

like he is a folk hero for a reason. it's not just because he's so nice to people. he is also an incredible adventurer.

when you meet him in the Grove, he is on a level with you—but dialogue makes it clear that's because the tadpole fucked with his capabilities. if you have him around and hear his little interparty exchanges and reactive lines, he talks about things he's done as the Blade of Frontiers, and they include wrestling a giant one-on-one, and fighting a dragon. by himself.

he fought a dragon by himself!!

like (spoilers for end of game), even when you fight a dragon in the finale, you're not doing it ALONE. you have 3 other party members and as many allies as you care to summon. WYLL WAS ALONE IN THE WOODS WITH WHATEVER SUPPLIES HE COULD SCRAPE TOGETHER AS A SOLO ADVENTURER. AND HE FOUGHT A DRAGON.

by all accounts, I think it's reasonable to guess that before the tadpole, he was more powerful than the level 12 cap that's built into the game. and sure, he's a warlock drawing power from a bond, but most D&D lore I've encountered build in the idea that warlocks need a certain amount of skill and prowess to handle the power offered to them by their patron—there's a reason warlocks and clerics still level up, rather than just shooting to the top of the ladder. PLUS, he had to know how to use that power effectively.

and then!! (spoilers for epilogue) if he does the Avernus version of his ending, he's become a ranger within the 6 months since you've last seen him. and not like, he took a level or two in ranger and he's working his way up to it. he tells you about devils he's killed that are on par with the dangers y'all faced in your adventures—and he's doing this either with only Karlach for company, or possibly even by himself (??? I've only ever had him go with Karlach, I can't stand it). so. he is ALSO now one of the most powerful RANGERS in the realms. IN 6 MONTHS.

which makes sense! he wouldn't lose all his adventuring knowledge and skills just because the pact is ended! but to master an entirely new discipline, magic and all, in such a short time??

WYLL RAVENGARD HERO OF THE REALMS. WYLL RAVENGARD GENIUS OF ADVENTURE. WYLL RAVENGARD CAN DO ANYTHING HE SETS HIS MIND TO

[avocado-writing]

Companions reacting to Tav telling them they love them right in the middle(or after) a fight?? Like Tav is just so in awe of seeing em in action<3

oh! So sweet! Absolutely, here you go anon - writing as if you’ve seen them do something magnificent in battle & are so overcome with love that you have no choice but to blurt it out! (some stuff under a cut for being a bit NSFW LMAO) plus mentions of blood & violence

Astarion

stabs someone attacking you from out of the darkness with such efficiency they’re dead before they hit the ground

you’re blown away by the bloodlust and fury in his eyes - how DARE someone try to hurt you?

”I love you,” you choke out, wide-eyed and trembling from fear and emotion.

he’s shocked, but reaches over to give you a quick and bloody kiss before stabbing someone approaching behind you and urging you to get back to the fight

tells you later it was very silly to be distracting yourselves like that… but he does appreciate it nonetheless 😌

Wyll

we’ve seen the way he’s introduced in game, we know he’s a fan of some showmanship

you see him deal with three opponents at once, Eldritch Blasts in one hand and rapier in the other, and shout that you love him almost instinctively

when he finishes seeing them off he leaps across the battlefield, spins you, and gives you a fiery kiss before darting back up to block another sword

you feel like you’ve had the air stolen from your lungs but quickly manage to recalibrate yourself - you have a fight to win!

you can’t help stealing glances at his fine form for the rest of the battle though 😏

Gale

we know canonically he gets turned on from watching you fight.

you yell out that you love him after seeing him sling the coolest Fireball? he’s putty in your hands afterwards.

so desperate, kissing you, begging for your hands to be all over him

“you are so wonderful, my heart… to see you in battle… it set every inch of me aflame…”

gets you into a routine of quickies after battle bc the two of you are fired up. neither of you mind delaying your adventure to fuck rough and fast. the rest of the party… could do without that.

Karlach

is busy raging and does NOT hear you lol

roars in response but that could just be a normal battle roar when it comes to her tbf

she finds you afterwards though, a little sheepish, and is like “oh erm did you say you loved me mid-battle?”

”yes! you looked so cool cleaving that dude in half karlach, I was a bit swept up…”

her face goes bright(er) red and she actually giggles before pulling you into a kiss

“things like that make this all worthwhile, solider. I love you too.”

Shadowheart

you’re dying. she floods you with a cure wounds so powerful it starts your heart again and also cures, like, an unrelated ache in your hip too, lol

you look up at her, bathed in the blood of battle, and she is like an angel sent from the heavens

“I love you” you manage to croak out from cracked lips

“I know,” she says, utterly unfazed, and then pushes you to your feet to keep on fighting

does give you a sweet smooch after battle though, to let you know she appreciated it 😌

Lae’zel

“tsk’va! there is a time and a place for this!”

she swings her sword and cuts a man’s head clean off, showering you both in a rain of warm blood, and you’re enchanted with her.

has to fight people off from wounding you because you’re so distracted oops

afterwards tells you that you cannot afford to be so absent-minded in battle… but does hold you close and rest her forehead to yours, allowing a moment of connected closeness between you ❤️

Halsin

you confess it when you see him bear out and start ripping people into pieces.

he is just… incredible. all raw power and brilliance.

you shout your love over to him and the bear roars before taking the head off of a zombie in one bite

always fights nearby you anyway, but will make an effort to get closer so he can hear your words of affection better!

plods over to you in wildshape afterwards and nuzzles into you, huffing happily when you bury your hands in his fur and give him a scratch 💕

Minthara

her blade is full of the might of her god, and she is going to use it to sunder her opponents.

you’re dazzled, in utter awe when she kills a fiend with a single blow from her sword

you can’t help the words falling from your lips.

she lifts her shield to block a blow from falling on you, and in its shade she gives you a kiss and says one word:

”good.”

[daybrightsims]

Alright, they've lived in my brain too long; Time to air out my thoughts about the polyamory in BG3

To give a little context: I am currently ethically non-monogamous with my primary partner of almost 7 years. I am not a monolith of thought when it comes to polyamory/ENM/open relationships. These are my own personal thoughts and feelings. I've also completed the game with Astarion and Halsin romanced. Spoilers ahead, read at your own risk.

TL;DR - I don't share the current opinion of whether or not Astarion is okay with Tav pursuing Halsin and the discourse around his agency and choices in the relationship are bumming me out and frustrating me.

I am getting increasingly frustrated about the conversation about Astarion being polyamorous/okay with Tav being with Halsin in the game, primarily because I think a lot of the "think pieces" are coming from 1) monogamous people who have only ever been monogamous, 2) monogamous people who have been burned/cheated on/forced into polyamory by a partner (I feel for ya'll, that wasn't okay), 3) people who are very VERY protective of Astarion, and 4) people who are blatantly uncomfortable with polyamory. My goal is not to invalidate anyone's experiences, but to share an alternate perspective.

I do think that Astarion is not only okay, but happy with Tav dating Halsin. I glean this from how he responds to being poly with ANY OTHER companion. If you ask him to share with literally anyone else, he will say no and give his reason.

Gale: He doesn’t want to be in a love triangle (which with Gale, it would be).

Lae’zel: He’s uncomfortable and Lae’zel would kill him (also true).

Wyll: He knows Wyll is old fashioned and monogamous.

Karlach: He knows Karlach’s feelings for you are strong and he doesn’t want to stand in the way of that (he even says he’d be cool with an arrangement but knows Karlach will need all of your affection based on what she’s been through).

Shadowheart: He would be cool IF Shadowheart had more experience and ya’ll were together longer. But he knows Shadowheart is fragile in her current state.

Minthara: He REALLY doesn’t like this idea and will dump you immediately.

I did also see that ***SPOILER*** they updated or are updating some of the spawn Astarion language to have issues with your affair with Mizora should you pursue it, and it requires a persuasion/deception role to keep you two together.

Up to this point in your relationship with Astarion, he has become more comfortable voicing his opinions and concerns with you. He is learning to value his autonomy and his non-physical relationships. He will tell you when he doesn’t want to do something. In fact, he’ll break up with you over pushing his boundaries. He is fine with you pursuing the Drow twins and fine with you sleeping with Haarlep, even comforts you when Haarlep uses your form. So when he says he is okay with you pursuing Halsin, he means it. Yes, he voices his insecurity with you that you may be pursuing Halsin because you and he haven’t had sex in a while. But he acknowledges that Halsin has experience in this arrangement and doesn’t pose a threat to your relationship. Plus, if you kiss Halsin in front of him, he’ll say “don’t mind me, I’m just enjoying the show.”

To me, the idea that this is the ONE thing that Astarion doesn't have agency over in an arc of showing he can speak up for himself is you sleeping with Halsin is an idea that takes more agency from Astarion. He is a grown man. A 240 YEAR OLD man. That trauma he's endured does not mean he needs to be babied or coddled because he can't make his own choices. I think that's an unfair assumption to put on him that Halsin and Tav being together is the ONLY thing he can't enforce his boundaries on.

If he didn't want you to be with Halsin, he would say no like every other monogamous character in the game.

If you want a good example of someone saying yes just because they want to keep you, look at Karlach. You can tell she is HEARTBROKEN when you ask her, but she says “I don’t want to lose you”. That is not an enthusiastic participant in a polyamorous relationship. Astarion says “yeah, go for it! Just give me some reassurance”. Polyamory is not immune to insecurity. I've asked for reassurance in my own relationships and so has my primary partner. That’s not unenthusiastic. That’s realistic as shit. If you ask him about the relationship after you finish his questline, he doesn’t need reassurance because you’re having sex again. That’s also super realistic.

Am I sensitive to this as someone who practices ENM? Almost certainly. It's hard to see a lifestyle I live be villainized and claimed to be "forced" onto characters. I was actually really excited that I could pursue both Astarion and Halsin, and that Halsin places so much importance on consent and not misleading your partner. And it sucks SOO much to see one of my favorite characters be reduced to "oh, he's only doing it because he's afraid to lose Tav." It makes me almost feel bad for liking the interactions between them and enjoying to option. Do I think people mean to make me or other poly people feel bad? No.

But it does.

Headcanons are headcanons. I get it. People are absolutely allowed to interpret the poly aspect of BG3 how they want to. People are allowed to feel uncomfy with how it's portrayed and not pursue it. But it still bums a queer ENM Astarion and Halsin lover out.

Now excuse me whilst I live out my Astarion x Halsin x Tav polycule fantasies in the form of fanfiction.

[y-rhywbeth2]

Been thinking about Durge romances and how much I love the companions. Many people love Astarion's response when Durge gets their "kill your lover in their sleep" scene and, fair, that was the point that I unfortunately began to genuinely love the pointy bastard. I do enjoy watching him sass Bhaal. Plus you being the only one he's not afraid of in the world and also "we can compare notes" because he recognises what's happening, yes, yes.

And additional honourable mentions to Lae'zel and Karlach:

Lae'zel threatening to bite you back and informing you that if you don't beat Bhaal you will be fighting her and that will be much worse, topped with the gem of "Not to be maudlin, but I'm glad I didn't gut you."

Karlach asking you not to bite her because trying to eat her flesh will hurt you. also she growls back at you. and asking what the fuck you're talking about when Durge goes into one of their, uh, poetic moods. And parallels: "It's bad. I won't say it isn't. But... I've done worse. Powers beyond our control picked us to do their dirty work - that isn't our fault." I mean Durge has absolutely done worse, but I concede the gist of your argument.

But my favourite variants are these three (in no particular order):

Shadowheart's "Hells, what I wouldn't give for a boring lover sometimes" shortly before scolding you - "no biting!" Bad hellspawn! Bad! Use your words! - It's the middle of the night, she's tired, and she expected something way more fun that this damnit. (also; "She was starting to trust you. The only one she ever has. Pity it's coming to an end." *screaming*)

Wyll reminds us he's the one with the high charisma stat in this party with his pep talks: "The coast would sooner be swallowed whole by the Sea of Swords [before I'd hate you]." - "Rise up, meet its gaze. Show it no fear, and grant it no mercy." - "You are a champion. If this foe demands blood, then tear off its limbs and let it drink its own!" Never been more revved up to punch Bhaal in the face, thank you. And Sceleritas directly compares himself to Mizora and aAhHHHhhhhh-!

And then there's Gale, who clearly has no idea what's happening or what do about it. Get it out of your system, he says, trying his best to be supportive. "This is not good, if I may state the obvious." - "No, no clotting. I like my blood flowing in my veins, thank you most kindly." He would prefer not to die, thank you. 10/10. Durge is way too distracted by this to listen to Bhaal right now.

[bellamer]

Baldur’s Gate 3 Characters I think you can take to a black thanksgiving

Astarion: Definitely not. I will not elaborate. His mouth is way too fresh, he’ll get his ass beat. Like at first I was like “He’d probably be gossiping with the aunties” but I don’t think he’d last that long. Don’t bring him anywhere.

Lae’Zel: Definitely not, see Astarion’s reason why and apply it to her, she’ll get jumped.

Shadowheart: I feel like it would be safe to bring her but she really wouldn’t socialize. She’d probably stay next to whoever brought her the entire time, introduce herself, but she’d still be off in the corner with her plate. Might say something out of pocket so watch her but she’s still sorta safe

Gale: A safe option. He’s polite and he’ll help where he can but keep him out of the kitchen because he’d make unwarranted suggestions like “May I suggest less salt ? And less pork in the vegetable dishes ?” and would get glared at by all the older women in the kitchen and would probably get cursed out so you have to tell him to shut up and just go do something else away from the kitchen.

Karlach: A safe option. She’d get along with the rowdy cousins, and would love playing games with everyone and dancing to music but her favorite parts would be going on “walks” and then devouring the food. Definitely the type to leave with 15 to go plates and will eat her leftovers way into January.

Wyll: One of the safest options there is. Not because he’s black, but he knows how to behave and he’s polite. Grandma is definitely asking to bring him back for Christmas and New Years. Would be popular with the little cousins because he has a soft spot for kids and wouldn’t mind playing with them or watching the thanksgiving parade with them, helps sets the the table, helps put the food away. He’s a good one to bring and he’d be welcome to return next year, and would be welcome to attend other functions.

Halsin: “You are freaking African Americans… plus Halsin. Which, I’m rocking with Halsin cuz Halsin’s rocking with us” basically all the reasons why Wyll is allowed to the thanksgiving is the same reason why Halsin is allowed. The thing that won him a permanent seat at the table however is when he was invited to go on a “walk” and he shared his personal stash with everyone happily, and he rolled perfectly too. He’s invited to all the functions.

So in conclusion:

Who’s not allowed: Astarion and Lae’Zel

Who would be allowed to attend but will still get side eyed at some point for out of pocket comments: Gale and Shadowheart

Who’s invited back with open arms: Karlach, Wyll, Halsin

[the16thtower]

Wyll Ravengard fucking undoes me because while a lot of fans and the BG3 writers do him dirty, there's so much going on with his character that just isn't explored or elaborated on that is so fascinating.

I have a parent who functions as a pillar of the community in my hometown, who is incredibly competent and admirable, and who judges me harshly for supposedly making choices that ruined my life. It's really difficult trying to wrap your head around all the different layers of that kind of relationship and Wyll never gets to really address it properly.

If we think about what happens after he gets kicked out of home:

What does he get to take with him? Does he even get a chance to pack any belongings? He looks like a normal human for the most part when we first met him, so what did Ulder tell people? We don't know about his mother's side but is there any family or family friends he could stay with? Did Ulder poison the well with everyone Wyll knew by being upfront about the pact or did he lie and make up another equally damning excuse for exile? God, just the idea that Ulder looked his son in the face (freshly injured) and immediately threw him out is devastating. Wyll is so certain about the prudence of his father's decision when we met him but either:

This is a perspective he's eventually made peace with

His conviction in his father never waned

which both suck! Either his idol, his father, screwed up massively or he has so little concern for himself that it never occurred to him that Ulder's justification was shit. Ulder is the Duke of Baldur's Gate, with all the resources that grants him, and he didn't even try to contact an expert on demons to try and get more info on his son's situation? What the fuck! There's the whole bit with the Trials of Balduran about appropriate punishment that Wyll agrees with that he doesn't even think to apply to his own situation. It can really fuck you up having your hero, who you admire for the good they do for others, decide you're not worthy of that same good.

Wyll tries so hard to be a good person and to lead by example but never seems to see himself as an acceptable recipient of the grace and kindness he shows others.

Does Mizora just immediately whisk him off to different parts of the Sword Coast to start acting the part of the Blade of Frontiers? He's seventeen, homeless, no support network, and fighting monsters - I'm going to lose my fucking mind. That's ridiculous. That kid was already dealing with his father's intense expectations (from what Wyll describes, Ulder was raising Wyll to follow in his footsteps, which is a steep ask). He then suddenly loses everything, on top of the stigma of demon association - Wyll's mental health must have tanked at some point. Depression, anxiety, and PTSD are definitely on the table (plus phantom pains from the prosthetic eye).

Just thinking of this teenager learning how to drink properly with no one looking out for him, trying to numb things a bit, and just becoming a sad wreck every time. Just... there's so much there with Wyll having to grow up very quickly in very lonely circumstances. We know he has some acquaintances, like the tieflings, but who actually knows what's going on with him? Is he still shouldering his burdens alone? Is MIzora around bothering him or does she flit in and out of his life? He's in exile for seven years.

And he's still a romantic and an idealist! Unflinchingly, genuinely, with his chest! He endures! He becomes a hero. It's beautiful. He survives and cultivates his best qualities in the face of awful circumstances. Wyll has this intense sense of morality and will (pardon the joke) that never permits him to sway from the right thing, even with everything stacked against him. And it routinely costs him! It's so, so hard to do the right thing and he still does it because he simply can't see another outcome worth living through.

It upsets me a little that Wyll ends up doubling down on what a good person his dad is when they reunite - as if Wyll hasn't demonstrated infinitely more empathy and compassion for other people, even when it actively impedes him. He's good because he chooses to be good and seeks to understand, not because he's able to follow the standards set by other men.

This is not a particularly organised discussion but fuck, I love Wyll Ravengard.

(UPDATE: I've just made some edits for clarification since I didn't express myself well. Also, this is a game that requires hundreds of hours of gameplay so be kind if I don't know everything.)

[honest-moth-of-silver-grove]

Hcs for a Tav who grew up being starved/neglected. Maybe their parents were poor or they were an orphan on the street. They don’t hoarde too much food but they don’t eat in front of others. And rarely take enough. And they refuse to shower near the others or camp super close to them. They’re almost always on alert and are really bad at self care. They’re always dirty, hair a mess. They kind of smell. And they are also ashamed of the fact no one taught them how to take care of themselves???

For Astarion, Gale, Halsin, and Wyll? ^_^

Thank you!

A/N: Oh Nonnie, I feel this! I was a child of divorce and at one house we were very disciplined and had routines for self-care and homework and everything. But the other house was chaotic and full of resentment and neglect. It’s so odd how something 20+ years ago can still affect you today, but it absolutely can. 💚

For some resources on having to figure things out as an adult, may I recommend the “How Do I Dad?” YouTube Channel and the r/InternetParents subreddit? Those are the two I like the best atm. Also remember, Google is your friend. Whenever I want a real person to answer, I usually type in my question with a plus sign then Reddit (+reddit) which will pull up real user’s threads from Reddit about the subjects you’re Googling. It’s one of the last platforms I think is usable in that way. So that's why I do that. Then again, I’m old and might just miss the old ppl’s Internet. 

Anyway, on to the ask!

…

TW: Mentions of Past Neglect, Disordered Eating, Food Insecurity

...

🧼️ HCs for Neglected!(GN)Tav With Astarion, Halsin, & Wyll 🛁

Astarion: 

Okay, he’s kinda a dick about it at first. He doesn’t mean to be. Well, I mean, yes he meant to make those petty comments, but he wouldn’t have made them if he knew about Tav’s past circumstances. Once Tav lets it slip they’re bad at self-care because no one ever taught them, Astarion immediately feels a sense of kinship. 

He was a magistrate before Cazador captured and turned him, and he considered himself to be a man of some luxury, but after being taken that all changed. He lived in filth, he was fed filth, by the hells, Cazador saw him as filth. He knows what it feels like to be seen as worthless and to have to survive in meager conditions. He wants Tav to understand none of it is their fault. They had no control over their circumstances. He tells Tav to never apologize for the way they had to live in order to survive. 

The first thing he offers to help Tav with is bathing and dressing. When Cazador let him out to lure victims, Astarion perfected disguising his undead scent over the decades. Part of it was using oils and perfumes, and another part was choosing the right attire. He’ll find the right kind of soap and cleansing oils for Tav's skin and hair type, insisting they get only the best the markets of Baldur’s Gate have to offer. If Tav can’t afford it, who cares? He’ll just sneak around the merchant and steal it while Tav distracts them. Or Lazel, if Tav refuses to do something so morally questionable.

He doesn’t really pick up on Tav’s refusal to eat with the others, mainly because Astarion also doesn’t eat with the others. But if Tav requests, Astarion will gladly sit and gossip with Tav as they eat their meal, away from everyone else. 

Astarion might suggest the party visit an inn or a bar one night, and encourage Tav, in his way, to let their guard down and eat around the others. He wants Tav to practice consuming food in the presence of their other friends. Astarion believes it’ll do two things: 1) It’ll prove to Tav, that it’s safe to eat in their company and 2) It’ll reinforce what Astarion’s been saying to them, that there’s nothing wrong with the way they eat. Even if they scarf their food down or eat with their hands or burp extra loud- who cares? Karlach practically inhales three portions in a single bite. Gale won’t shut up while he eats, so he’s always talking with his mouth full. And Shadowheart takes the tiniest bites imaginable, meaning she takes fricken forever to finish a single plate. Everyone has their own style, and Tav’s is nothing to be ashamed of. 

If Tav and Astarion are especially close or if they’re dating, Astarion will even offer to help Tav wash up. Not because he wants to see them naked, or to have sex, but because he really wants to shower them in affection. He’ll gently massage their shoulders as he works the cleansing oils into them. He’ll help them balance, bending backward as he washes their hair, gently using the very tips of his sharp nails to scratch their scalps. It feels heavenly, and it’s a great intimate, non-sexual way for the two of them to grow closer. 

It may be true no one was there to take care of either Astarion or Tav in the years past. But now that they’re together, the two of them can take care of each other. 

Halsin: 

Halsin prefers to live amongst nature as opposed to city dwellings, so he’s more accustomed to roughing it than the others may be. That being said, he’s not unclean, or unkempt- he keeps himself very well groomed (as one must do when they tend to ask to bed anyone and everyone they come into contact with for more than five seconds). He assumes Tav is just more accustomed to frequent bathing at first. Not everyone is as fortunate as he is. But he begins to suspect something the more the days go on, and Tav’s appearance and demeanor don’t change. 

He’ll try casually inviting Tav to come bathe with him. He knows the perfect spot just beyond the Grove, that’s secluded but not too small, that would well accommodate both of their bodies. He suggests this regardless of whether he and Tav are dating or not. If Tav is hesitant, he apologizes for being forward and kindly explains he just wanted to present Tav with the opportunity to take some time for themselves. When Tav breaks down in front of him, explaining why they’re so upset about the idea of grooming and self-care, Halsin is immediately sympathetic.  He listens intently as Tav gets their fears off their chest. 

Once Halsin understands Tav’s situation, he’ll take them into his tent, and show Tav his collection of soaps and brushes and oils. Halsin explains how he prefers to use each one, before gifting them to Tav to keep for themselves. When Tav protests that it’s too much, Halsin puts a hand up to stop them. He can always buy new items. Besides, he’s learned how to make the most of what only Mother Nature has to offer. He can manage without fancy cleansers and bristles for a time. Tav deserves them more. 

Halsin might even offer Tav some clothes if he has any that wouldn’t be too difficult to tuck or take in, as he’s a very tall man. With Tav’s permission, he might even ask Shadowheart Lazel or even Astarion if they have something they could spare for the time being, if Tav is too embarrassed or shy to ask for themselves. 

He offers to keep watch and guard Tav as they bathe, promising not to look unless Tav asks them to. If the two are dating, Halsin will assist them, helping Tav scrub down, and removing all the dirt, grime, and dead skin before washing them in the water. If the two are only friends, Halsin keeps his promise of not looking at Tav until they are dressed again. He’ll help detangle and braid Tav’s hair, taking care not to pull too hard on any knots. The whole ordeal leaves Tav feeling rather pampered. 

As far as eating goes, Halsin will always offer to share any meal he catches while the party is camping together, which is how Halsin notices Tav’s different eating habits. Halsin swears that as long as he is well and able to hunt and gather food, Tav will never go hungry in his presence. Halsin assures Tav that it’s okay to eat full, rather than stockpile most of their meals for later. It’s much more important to eat for energy now, rather than wait to eat later. It keeps one’s energy levels stable and helps to reduce any unintentional food waste as things tend to spoil sooner rather than later. 

Halsin takes it upon himself to become a provider of sorts for Tav, the one Tav never had. He plans to lavish Tav with so much attention and care, that those wounds caused by years of abandonment and neglect have no choice but to close. 

Wyll: 

Wyll is a bit awkward about it in the beginning. Not because he intends to be rude, but because he’s unsure of how to approach the subject with Tav without sounding like a snide ass. If it were any other companion, he might have made an offhand comment days ago, but when it comes to their leader, Wyll holds much more admiration and respect. So, Wyll holds his tongue until things become a bit more apparent, and he believes he knows the most sensitive way to navigate them. 

When everyone sits down to eat, Wyll asks Tav if they’d like to join them. He does this every evening, hoping Tav will eventually say yes. If Tav still doesn’t bite, he’ll come to them, and ask if he could sit next to Tav as they eat. Wyll makes a casual conversation between bites, trying to bring Tav out of their shell. If there's still no change, Wyll opens up about being on his own, having been kicked out of his home as a young man. He reveals how for the first few years he was often hungry, tired, and cold- being forced to move around from place to place outside of Baldur’s Gate without the proper supplies to fend for himself or keep himself dry. This prompts Tav to open up a bit about their past- how they also had to survive on their own, and now, as an adult, they don’t know how to do anything other than ‘survive’. 

Wyll is, of course, empathetic. Tav may not have come from a noble background like Wyll did, but that’s no excuse for all Tav had to endure, especially as a child. Wyll tells them he’s sorry Tav had to live through all that, and makes it very clear that it was in no way, Tav’s fault. They were just a kid, they should have been protected. There’s nothing to feel ashamed about. They didn’t fail, other people failed them. 

Wyll had to learn how to do many things on his own, and he thinks it would be best for him to share all he’s learned. One night he sits with Tav at dinner, encouraging Tav to eat, as Wyll tells them how he learned where to stay, how to get work, when to leave, and where to train. 

Together, Wyll and Tav come up with a list of items Tav most likely needs for self-care. All the while Wyll does his best to ensure Tav doesn’t feel judged for lacking such things. Again, Wyll reminds them, it’s not their fault. And there’s never any time to start like the present. If they’re close enough to a market, Wyll will take them there, and help Tav purchase everything they need. However, if they’re somewhere without vendors, say the Underdark or the Shadowlands, Wyll will approach a party member for assistance. 

Out of all of the companions, Wyll asks Astarion if he has any extra cleansing soaps or oils because Wyll knows Astarion’s the most high-maintenance party member amongst them lol. Once Wyll secures those items, he gifts them to Tav, and lets them know he’d be happy to stand guard while they bathe. Wyll plants himself midway between the camp and the river, giving Tav ample space. Wyll would feel being too close to them, in this manner, at this point, even if he and Tav were in a relationship, would be inappropriate. 

Once Tav is bathed and dressed, Wyll escorts them back to the fire. As Tav’s hair dries, Wyll regales them with much more upbeat stories, tales of his times as the Blade of Frontiers. His battles and triumphs, his rescues and saves- all of that. He wants Tav to know he has their back. Wyll is capable of protecting Tav, and he intends to do it in a way where Tav never has to feel abandoned or forgotten again.

...

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[doomhamster]

For anyone in the mood for a sad Wyll headcanon: I think Wyll was a lonely child.

In all his cute anecdotes about his childhood, he never mentions friends, have you noticed? It's always just him; I snuck into the Counting-House, I had a fishing spot, I played pretend in the park, I stole peaches and got chased by the Fist. The only time he mentions other children at all is when he talks about playing hopscotch.

It's tempting to think Wyll would've been popular, but the thing is, little dreamers seldom are. And being the kind of kid adults consider charming can actually separate you from other kids. As can being the child of someone important in the community, at least if - like Wyll - you're smart enough to realize when people are trying to befriend you for clout, and proud enough to resent that fact.

I also think this is one area where Ulder *would* have fallen short as a parent. I can't imagine Ulder himself having been a popular kid (for some of the same reasons as Wyll, and also because I imagine baby Ulder being a cranky little bastard) and as a man, he just seems like the sort who has a few close friendships and doesn't much care how people feel about him beyond that.

Plus which, Ulder is first among the adults who are charmed by Wyll and his fancies and antics! I don't think it'd occur to him that his son might struggle to make friends, or how his position would play into that - or, even if it did, I don't think he'd know what to do about it, except continue to spend as much time as he could with Wyll. Which, parental attention is a wonderful thing to have, but it can't substitute for friendships any more than the other way around!

[sxddekarios]

a certain kind of (arcane) hunger

fic summary: gale's practiced tongue strikes again! gale tries eating out tav to satisfy the orb.

4.4k words

read on ao3

Tav sat at the lake with her head in her hands.

She had told Wyll and Astarion the night before to take the red pouch from the chest to trade in the Grove. They thought that red and purple were somehow the same thing, and the items had already been sold when Tav raced back … then berated them for not thinking to check the contents to make sure they were just selling extra potions.

Instead, they pawned off her stash of magical items. Full of rings, necklaces, weapons, and shields. All for Gale to absorb the magic from, so he’d never be overcome by his arcane hunger.

Tav knew she’d be able to start replenishing the stash once they found a new hoard of enemies to take out, but she knew they’d had to wait at least a few days.

Soft footsteps sounded behind Tav. She turned her head to take in the wizard before her. Clad in his purple robes, the orb stood out starkly on Gale’s chest. It looked angrier than usual.

Of course, Tav thought, it couldn’t have acted up last night when they still had over a dozen artifacts.

“Hello,” Gale smiled and waved at Tav, oblivious to the earlier fight between her, Wyll, and Astarion. “Mind if I join you?”

Tav smiled back at him. “Go ahead.” Her heart rate kicked up as he sat next to her, his leg brushing against her knee for a moment.

“I see your little friend is hungry,” Tav commented. She knew it was better to get the conversation over with now, so they could work out what to do.

“You have a keen eye,” Gale let out an embarrassed chuckle at their predicament. “It usually doesn’t creep up on me so suddenly, but it’s not too terrible yet. I can hold out for a little longer, if you need.”

Tav let out a deep sigh. “Well… I actually do kind of need that. The guys accidentally traded off our artifacts, so we’re out for now. I’ll get some as soon as we can, I promise. I’m sorry, Gale.”

She felt so disappointed in herself, wishing she had instructed Wyll to look in the damn bag. Or better yet, she could’ve gone herself. But her cramps had other plans for her.

“That’s alright,” Gale assured her. He moved his hand over to hers, both of them feeling a bit light-headed at the contact. “It’s not your fault.”

How did she end up with such a sweet companion?

Her thoughts were interrupted when Gale let out a pained grunt and squeezed her hand. Tav turned her body to face him and ask if he’s okay.

“Yeah,” he replied. The hoarseness in his voice said otherwise. As did the orb glowing a dark purple in his chest.

“Gale…” Tav started, trying to figure out what to do. He needed something to consume tonight. There’s no way he would be okay through the night with the orb’s demands increasing so rapidly.

“You were right.”

Gale and Tav snapped around, startled at the voice that joined them. They noticed Withers had come upon them*. Keeping up with his creepy air of omnipotence*, Tav thought.

Withers cleared his (seemingly nonexistent) throat. “About the nature of your affliction, Tav. Do with that what you will.” And with that, Withers was walking back towards the camp.

Gale was the first to voice their confusion. “Um, do you know what he’s talking about?”

Tav looked at him, eyebrows still furrowed. “No. Well, I don’t think so. I might. But … I don’t know how he would know about that. Or why he wouldn’t explain anything. But it could be about something totally different, and I’d look like a fool bringing up the only thing I can think of.”

“If there’s only one thing you can think of, then I’m sure that’s it,” Gale answered. “Plus, Withers is always cryptic. While I agree that it’s unfair of him to leave you in the dark about this, it’s not out of character for him.” He hoped his words could comfort her.

He continued, “If it is something different, then at least you’ll know if you … ask, or try, or whatever it is you think you need to do. How bad could it be if you’re wrong?” Gale meant the question practically — he didn’t want to mock her, but he wanted to help her weigh her options.

Tav scoffed at his question. It could be catastrophically embarrassing, she thought. Who knows if Gale would ever see her the same, or even want to be her companion, if she suggested such a ludicrous idea.

She settled on an answer. “Mostly devastating embarrassment on my end, and an undue amount of discomfort on both of us.” Tav laughed a bit at the thought, grateful for humor distracting her from anxiety.

Gale raised his eyebrows at her. “Us as in — you and I?” He didn’t understand how he’d be involved in this. He thought it was between her and Withers.

“Yes,” Tav sighed. “If it’s … the theory I’ve had … and the reason why he’d bring it up now, it definitely involves you.” Gods, and if it wasn’t? Even if it was true, it would be mortifying to see his reaction, his rejection. It was crazy, and she knew she wasn’t good enough for him.

Gale was just getting more confused as the conversation went on. Luckily, his opinion carried greater weight since the embarrassment Tav was afraid of was connected to him. He simply wouldn’t judge her, and then there’d be nothing to be embarrassed about.

“Well, I’m certainly not going to judge you. Would you like to go on?” He asked her.

“If I must,” Tav muttered. She knew Gale would pick up on her exasperation being due to the secret she was going to share, not because of him.

She shifted her body back to face the lake. “I … I may have been cursed. I’m not sure if it was before I was born or after, but,” Tav paused to gather her strength.

“Basically, I can’t have sex. Penetrative, at least. I have my own theories about who cursed me, and why, but I suppose that’s for me to bug Withers about later. Not that he’d answer. Anyways, this involves you since it’s a magical curse. Weave and all.” ”So,” Tav continued, “if you take your condition literally… Needing to feed on the Weave, then…” She waved her hand as if the motion explained the rest. He’d probably get it.

That can’t be what she means, Gale thought. But, what else could it mean? Or is this just wishful thinking?

He asked her, “Do you mean that if I ate you out, that would satisfy my orb?” Gale blushed as the words left his mouth, but he kept his gaze on Tav.

She responded by burying her face in her hands again. “It could. Though it’s a crazy idea, I know.”

Gale paused to consider the idea. “It’s not exactly crazy. I mean, the curse itself begs a myriad of questions, but the application of it now… It does make sense, seeing how the orb feeds off the Weave*.”* Gale mused. “How do you feel about trying that?”

Tav giggled at the absurdity of his question. “I feel like … like you should answer that question first.” There was no way she was going to tell him how badly she wanted him when he didn’t feel a thing towards her. Besides repulsion, maybe.

“Your answer is the more important one here!” Gale exclaimed. “No matter. I wouldn’t ask you if I wasn’t interested, Tav. I’ve had feelings for you for quite a while now, if you haven’t noticed. I’d be happy to try under normal circumstances — but I haven’t asked because I didn’t know if you felt the same, and I’ve avoided … intimacy since the instability of the orb. I don’t think it’d normally be safe, but if the intimacy itself can stabilize the orb, and Withers knows that, then I’m willing.” Far more than willing, he thought. Eager.

Tav’s head was rushing with conflicting thoughts at Gale’s confession. He had feelings for her? Why her? Would he be disappointed at the extent of their tryst? Of course he would — who wouldn’t? The best she could hope for was that he didn’t try to take it farther, like everyone else.

She looked into Gale’s eyes for confirmation of his feelings. She found the same warm glow that she fell in love with, along with an added dose of earnestness. It looked beautiful with the dark webbing under his eye.

“I hadn’t noticed,” Tav said softly. “I … also harbor feelings of my own. So, what do you say we run this crude idea past Old Man Withers?” Tav held out her hand for Gale as she rose to her knees.

Together they rose, and sought confirmation for a very practical tryst.

Hours later, Tav laid on her back in Gale’s tent.

Gale laid on his side next to her, stroking his fingers up and down her arm. They were trying to work out the logistics before they actually got to doing the deed.

“I don’t know if I have to orgasm for this to work,” Tav admitted. “I mean, I shouldn’t, right?”

Gale raised an eyebrow at her concern. Why is this a concern? Did she think he couldn’t make her orgasm? It had been a long time since his year in solitude, but he hasn’t lost all of his skills.

He mulled over her question nonetheless. “Thinking of the Weave as a physical thing, yes, I think you would have to orgasm. That’s probably how the Weave would be exchanged in that encounter. If it was just … emitting from you, I’d have noticed it by now.”

Tav groaned in frustration, raising her arms up to cover her eyes. Why must everything be so difficult for her?

She opened an eye to find Gale staring at her in confusion. “I’ve never….” she trailed off. “I don’t think I can.”

“Oh,” Gale responded immediately, taken aback by this. He’d never considered the possibility before.

“My stupid nerves can barely feel anything. It’s like trying to scratch an itch with a sphere.” Tav had never thought of that metaphor, but it fit perfectly.

Gale hummed in thought. If he thought in terms of the Weave, a sphere was smooth. What Tav needed was edges.

“What if I,” Gale muttered a new incantation he thought of and felt his fingers start to vibrate on her arm, “did this?”

Tav stared at the wizard in shock. Goosebumps were forming on her arms, and she thanked the stars for the man next to her.

“Then I think you’re about to have a very satisfied orb.”

Gale kissed his way down Tav’s body, moving the blanket on top of her when he wanted access to a new spot. Soon enough, he was laying on his stomach, gently sucking on her upper thighs.

He paused to grab a pillow to put under Tav’s hips. With a little wiggle, she was in perfect position for him. “Are you sure?” He asked her.

“Yes,” Tav breathed.

He pressed another kiss to her thigh. “We can stop at any point, alright? Just give me a little push.”

Tav smiled at his words. So, so sweet. “Okay,” she said softly. Her cheeks were flushed, but the darkness and blanket over her torso made her feel more secure.

Gale slowly moved his hands up her thighs until his thumbs reached her unclothed center. He kept his eyes on Tav’s as he lowered his head to press light kisses around her center. He was already hard.

Tav whimpered at the kisses, causing Gale to smile against her body. He grew closer to her core, kissing up from her opening until he finally reached her clit. Instead of kissing it though, he blew a warm breath on it.

“Gale,” Tav whimpered, clutching at his hair.

“Yes, Tav?” Gale asked with a smirk before blowing on her clit again.

Tav glared at the man between her legs. “You know what, you obstinate wizard.”

Gale chuckled at the rise he was getting out of her. He leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to her clit. All the while keeping his eyes on her, of course. “This?” He asked cheekily.

“Mhm hmm,” was all Tav could get out.

Gale’s kisses grew more open-mouthed every time, until his bottom lip came under her clit and he gave it a gentle, tugging suck. He fought another smile as he heard her whimper again. Though it was dark in the tent, he knew her cheeks were gorgeously flushed.

His tongue finally darted out to meet her clit, slowly licking from bottom to top. Tav bucked her hips into his mouth, causing him to become even more intoxicated by her sweet scent.

He continued to devour her pussy. His tongue traced up and down her clit, swirled in circles, and darted out in flicking motions as he sucked on the small nub. He pulled away for a second to mutter the incantation again, causing his tongue to flicker to life.

As soon as Gale’s tongue returned to Tav’s clit, she muffled a cry.

“Is this alright?” Gale pulled away to ask. Luckily, the Weave seemed to know what the purpose of this magic was, as the vibrations paused while he spoke.

“Yes,” Tav said in between deep breaths. “It’s good.”

“Good,” Gale grinned. “Now just lay back and relax.”

Tav rested her head against the pillows, moaning softly while Gale tongued at her clit. The vibrations were steadily getting stronger. She marveled at how she could actually feel, and how good it felt.

Gale dipped his tongue down to her opening to taste the small trickle of wetness gathering there, groaning as he took her in. He gently moved his tongue around the outside of her entrance, massaging the tight muscles.

Regretfully pulling away again, he asked if she wanted anything inside of her. “I know you said penetrative sex is a no, but I wasn’t sure if it’s just cocks or … anything,” he stammered the last part out.

Tav took a moment before answering. “I can take a tongue, or a finger. Just that though. It’ll be tender, but if it’s gentle and slow and oiled… It should be good. Anything more, even two fingers, hurts like hell.” It felt odd admitting this, but in such a vulnerable position, she felt it wasn’t too out of place.

“Okay,” Gale pressed a kiss to her clit, causing her to shudder in pleasure. “I promise you I won’t put anything more inside of you. I never want to hurt you.” He lapped at her. “Do you want to try my tongue inside of you? Just to see how it feels?”

“Sure,” Tav agreed. She trusted him to stop if she said it hurt too much. Anything more than a 4 on the scale, she reminded herself.

Gale began to gently but firmly press his tongue against her opening, coaxing the muscles to relax a bit. He brought his thumb to his mouth, sucked on it, then brought it up to her clit, stroking circles while it intuitively started to vibrate.

Then, he started to press his tongue into her. It was a slow process given how tight she was, how firmly her muscles pressed back against his tongue. Her hands didn’t tighten into fists in his hair though, so he carried on.

His cock twitched in his trousers at the taste enveloping him now. It was wonderful; he never wanted to leave this place between her thighs. He moved his tongue in gentle strokes, as if he was licking her walls, all the while focusing his thumb on her clit.

He was lost in his own pleasure between Tav’s sweet whimpers and the taste of her pussy. He eventually slowly pulled his tongue out, but kept up with his thumb’s mission. “How was that?”

“Good,” Tav responded. “It didn’t hurt too much. Your thumb, though. Fuck, that’s good.”

Gale and his cock perked up at her praise. He wished it didn’t hurt at all, but he was glad it still felt good. “Do you mind if I replace my thumb with my tongue now?” He was eager to taste her again. It can’t have even been two minutes, but he missed it dearly.

“As long as you…” Tav trailed off, unsure of how she was going to work “finger me” into her quip. She definitely had an idea. But it had gone under the thought-numbing pleasure Gale was bringing her to. So it was his fault, really.

She decided to just ask for it. “Could you finger me? Gently?” The question was less embarrassing than she thought, probably due to the genuine enjoyment Gale seemed to have settled between her thighs.

“Of course, sweetheart.” Gale brought his other hand to his mouth and sucked on his index finger. He really wanted it to be as smooth as possible, so he added an oiling spell. That should keep her slick, plus he could refresh it without removing his finger and hurting her.

His finger pressed against Tav’s entrance as his thumb continued to buzz up and down on her clit. “Can you take some deep breaths for me?” He asked, hoping it would help relax her.

“Okay.”

After five deep breaths, Gale began to push his finger into her. It felt like an even tighter fit this time, and he kept his gaze on her to gauge her pain level. “How is this?”

“Okay,” Tav repeated. “Thanks for going slow,” she added in appreciation.

He could see she was hurting, but the tension in her face lessened as his finger got deeper inside of her. Once he was mostly sheathed, he kept his finger still so she could breathe and adjust.

“Would you like to rate your pain 1-10?” Gale inquired in between her hitched breaths.

“Um, four. But it’s going down,” Tav responded. She hesitated before asking, “Do you think G-spots are real?”

“If G is for Gale, them I most certainly believe they are,” Gale joked. “But yes, I do. I can find yours, if you like. You feel tightest towards your entrance, so I assume that’s where most of the pain is? Because once that goes down a bit more, maybe to a two, I can crook my finger and begin my search. The base at your entrance should stay relatively stable.”

Tav smiled, thanking him for taking her seriously and thinking it out so well. She tried to stamp down her jealousy at the thought of him fingering other women, and a god, before he fucked them.

“I think I’m ready for you to move,” she whispered. Gale nodded in response, and she felt his finger crook inside of her.

He began brushing his finger against her walls, and she whined at the feeling of it. “Still okay,” she assured Gale. “But … isn’t it deeper?”

Gale shook his head. “Nope, it’s right around here.” He reconsidered. “Or, it usually is. I can go deeper though if you’d like?”

“Yes please,” Tav responded.

“Your wish is my command,” Gale said with a grin. He refreshed his lubrication spell before pushing his finger further into her pussy. He felt around, stroking against her walls until he heard an exquisite gasp.

“I think I found it,” Gale smirked.

Tav thought it looked more like a shit-eating grin, but she was in no state to argue. Well…. she could argue a little bit. “That,” she said between pants, “still means I’m right. It’s, ah, deeper.”

“Yes,” Gale chucked. “You are indeed correct, as usual. You are truly one of a kind, darling.” The orb and his cock pulsed in unison to remind him of the arcane goal here. Feeding. “Now, would my one of a kind darling like my tongue on her pussy while I finger her?”

Tav felt a rush of heat through her at Gale’s words. The mouth on him! She wasn’t surprised that he spoke so smoothly, so assured, but she was still surprised that she was lucky enough to be on the receiving end of this talent.

“Please,” Tav whimpered, her voice getting higher.

Gale smiled, excitement growing as he replaced his thumb with his mouth and resumed his feast. Gods, he thought, she tastes even better now. His finger on her g-spot caused more of her arousal to leak out, coating his tongue and filling his senses.

He groaned against her clit, causing Tav to buck her hips and moan. She began using her hands in his hair to guide him. Gale got even more turned on by this.

He continued lapping against her swollen clit until she pulled his head away. “Can you conjure a mage hand?” She asked, clearly embarrassed but too desperate to let it silence her.

“Of course, what would you like it to do?” He asked as he conjured a spectral hand, glowing a soft blue.

She lifted one of her hands out of his hair, flashing it in front of him. “Can it hold this hand up over my head?” It almost sounded like she was pleading.

“Sure,” Gale obliged, sending the hand to circle around her wrist and bring her hand to rest upon the top of the pillows supporting her head. Spectral fingers intertwined with Tav’s, adding a bit of pressure to pin her hand in place. Her other hand remained in Gale’s hair, scratching his scalp into a blissful oblivion.

“Like this?” Gale asked. Groaned, really.

“Yes,” Tav responded. “Thank you.” Her heart was hammering in her chest.

Gale smiled up at her. He marveled at her beauty, her vulnerability, her kindness, her gratitude, everything that made her her.

And her taste, he added, as he brought his mouth back to her pussy. He kissed her clit while tapping his tongue against her, one finger still stroking her g-spot, and mage hand pinning one wrist above her head.

Tav was a writhing mess, her pleasure evident through her sweet whimpers. She continued guiding him with her hand, so he was making short, light, vertical licks on her clit. Her grip in his hair tightened, which Gale took as a cue to ramp things up.

He started moving his finger faster, keeping still under the first knuckle, but rapidly stroking her g-spot. Almost tickling it, he thought. He matched this pace with his tongue, taking care to stay consistent to help her reach her orgasm. Her firstorgasm.

That’s it, he thought, just relax for me. Let me make you feel good.

He continued his ministrations, so caught up in her pleasure that he barely noticed his throbbing cock. Tav’s fingers tightened in Gale’s hair before she cried out as her body spasmed in waves of pleasure. Gale kept pleasing her with quick strokes from his buzzing finger and mouth through her orgasm, causing a warm fluid to squirt against his lips and pool in the palm of his hand.

He dutifully kept going until he felt Tav’s vaginal spasms begin to weaken around his finger. He stopped the vibrating, slowed his tongue, and pressed kisses to her clit, causing her to jump and whimper adorably.

“Are you alright?” He inquired softly as he slowly slipped his finger from her. He rose up on his knee, wincing at the creak, to get a better view of her. He noticed the mage hand that still held her wrist. He dismissed that, feeling a bit jealous that he wasn’t holding her hand.

As he brought his wet finger to his mouth to revel in her taste, her fluid ran down his wrist and forearm. He also noticed the orb. It was glowing, but an excited, light purple. He didn’t feel pain, he didn’t feel the arcane hunger that plagued him earlier. He felt completely satisfied. Save for the cock throbbing in his trousers, of course. It worked.

“Mhm,” Tav moaned. “That was … different.” Different was an understatement, but she didn’t know how to describe it. She was still aching though, and it was much less pleasant now.

Ever the gentleman, Gale was prepared to take care of her. “Can I get you anything? Do anything for you? Are you sore?”

“Yeah, actually.” Tav winced as she tried to sit up, so Gale gently pushed her back down.

“Rest,” he instructed. He grabbed a towel and began to dry off her thighs and pussy.

“I wish I had ice,” Tav lamented, knowing that was the only solace she’s ever had for her pain.

“Hmm,” Gale contemplated. “I could use an enchantment to make my hand cold and hold it against you. Do you think that would help?”

Tav gasped out an excited “yes!”. Gale chuckled in response, placing the towel off to the side and muttering a small glacies before pressing a cold hand to her center. Tav groaned immediately, seemingly in pleasure.

“Is this okay?” Gale asked.

Tav closed her eyes and nodded. She spread her legs a little to allow Gale better access, causing his cock to stir again. “This is great,” she said. “Thank you.”

“Of course, Tav.” Gale replied. “You deserve it. You deserve the best. I’m sorry about hurting you, though I’m glad I got to bring you pleasure.”

His words brought her back to reality — the whole reason that spurred her coming on his face. Her eyes snapped open and met Gale’s. “Did it work?”

“Yes,” he smiled, glancing down at the orb. “I’m all good now. No more arcane hunger for me.” He wished they discovered this earlier. He’d much rather eat her out than consume magical artifacts. How mundane. He hoped they’d be able to keep up this mutual agreement. He hoped they’d have more — a real romance, where he got to kiss and hold her.

“Good,” Tav replied before closing her eyes again. “Now get down here,” she tugged at the hand that wasn’t serving as her ice pack. He laughed and acquiesced, lying down and curling up to her.

“Can I kiss you?” Gale asked, bringing his free arm under her neck.

Tav smiled and nodded. Gale closed his eyes and brought his lips to hers. She quickly held up her hand to stop him. He opened his eyes to find her grimacing. He worried that he did something wrong — did she not really want to be with him? Did he move to fast? Did she not like kissing after oral?

“Actually,” Tav said, “Could you do something about …” She waved a hand at his mouth, “that first? I’m not fond of tasting myself.”

Gale laughed at the apologetic tone in her voice. “Sure. But for the record, I’m very fond of tasting you.”

[adarlingmess]

There's a lack of morally grey/evil male romantic options for BG3.

Let me preface this by saying that the direction Larian Studios took for the romances are groundbreaking. I can definitely feel the effect they wanted us to feel with the romances- it feels like an actual relationship instead of a game where the end goal is just sex. The players are given an opportunity to influence their love interests and affect their storylines for better or for worse, just like how one would in a real relationship. Kudos!

But… I need to say it. As much as I love Baldur's Gate and BG3, the "bad girl" romance options are numerous (Viconia, Hexxat & arguably Safana in the predecessor games; Shadowheart, Lae'Zel, & Minthara + Mizora as a fling in 3) compared to the male (Dorn in 2, Astarion in 3). There's something off about it that I can't put my finger on. Plus, player have more control on whether to "fix" the bad girls or "make her worse". Meanwhile, Astarion is the only "bad boy" you can do that with. You can't even steer Dorn to a lighter path- he will straight up leave you if you are too good.

In Baldur's Gate 3, every male romance option except Astarion starts off as "good boy" romances. Gale and Wyll did questionable things but their alignment ultimately leans towards good. Halsin is a walking green flag. What if we want to roleplay a character who is into the "bad boys"? This is why we were clamoring for a Raphael and Abdirak romance since Early Access. I see folks wanting Nere and Gortash too. Where are our bastards? Please, we want to play with fire 👀

[teaffrogy]

Anxiety [Astarion]

SUM. Anxiety and stress have been eating at you. Till you broke.

Fem Reader(You/Tav) X Astarion (takes place in Act 3)

A/N: I am not feeling well mentally, and I just want comfort, so I am giving myself some sort of comfort. I am struggling with anxiety and depression. I am seeing a therapist, but my life is making me want to quit.

Tw(?): Talks a lot about Anxiety and stress

You haven't slept.

It's been two days since you haven't been able to sleep properly. You'd stir in your bedroll or just look outside of the flaps of your tent. What was keeping you awake? Anxiety.

Anxiety of going Back Home, getting this weird tadpole out of you, having to find find the two neteratones who two powerful people have, help Karlach with her engine and worry about what happens next for her, and so so but so much more from everyone else in the camp. Your stomach was killing you. You'd even throw up at random because of the stupid fucking Anxiety that was eating at you. Every encounter leads to new situations that cause even more anxiety.

And some of your companions Have noticed you not leaving your tent for two days. One is because you fall asleep and wake up super Late, the other is because you don't want to go out. You haven't been leaving because you don't want to encounter more situations And the current ones, you are avoiding everything, everyone. And it makes you feel even more worse about yourself than ever because of how much you've been avoiding it.

Astarion would come in to Ask if you are alright but you just said yes. He even asks you to go on a night walk with him since he saw you not sleep at night. But you kindly refused saying he needs to rest too. He would say you two could simply stay. in your tent and he Can just read. But you said no. Shadowheart would come to your tent to ask if you are alright, you'd say you're fine, just tired, but she knew something was wrong and it was bugging her. Gale too, he'd ask or even bring you your favorite meal he made but you wouldn't even touch it. If you did eat You'd just end up throwing it up.

“Do you think she is pregnant?” Karlach asks. “You think so? She's been throwing up.” Shadowheart says. “She is not pregnant!” Gale yells. “And how would you know?” Astarion asks, and Gale says nothing. “Well, I don't think it's because of her being pregnant, I think she'd know if she is. Plus, she seems down.” Wyll says as he looks at your tent, which you haven't left again. Halsin looks at your tent and sees you turn on a candle. You move around, and half your body is out of the tent, but go back inside and turn the candle off. Halsin sighs and looks at everyone. “She is avoiding something or someone.” He says.

Someone? But who?

And they started to point fingers at who. First, it was Astarion(of course) they had thought that their relationship had ended which caused you to lock yourself Away, but it hasn't, it is a good relationship. Then it was Gale. Maybe she was scared he'd blow up! But it was false. You two had talked privately about this. Then it was Wyll. Maybe she was scared of Misora? But no, you had told him you wanted to fight her. Then Karlach, again, burns and blows up. But again, you had ressured Her that you trusted her. Then Shadowheart, her beliefs in Shar maybe were too much for you. Again, you told her as well that it didn't matter to you at all. Halsin…there wasn't really anything wrong. No one had nothing to say about him.

So what was it?

Laezel? But she said that you two were good, that for them to assume something like that was idiotic.

And They gave up. It was either because you hated someone and they didn't know why or you were pregnant. Which are two bad options, but what else?

You couldn't sleep again.

Everyone was in their tents, asleep. You were culled up into a ball as you thought of everything that simply kept coming, and your stomach was killing you again. You wanted to throw up, but at the same time, you didn't. You didn't want to throw up what you had eaten. Gale had made your favorite food. It would be sad if you just threw it up.

And the thoughts are quiet now. They just stopped. You breathed carefully and heard footsteps. It's Astarion. He probably came back from a haunt. You smiled at the thought of him, but the thoughts came back.

What would he think of me now? Does He think I'm disgusting? God, what if he just wants to end things? Does he love me? What am I doing wrong?

It was getting hard to breathe. Your eyes would move from one place to another in seconds and you sat up. Your vision starts to blur as you try to look around. You try to speak but you just make a weird sound like a cry. You cover your mouth and just cry. You hugged the pillow again and covered your face in it as you cried. You could Feel your pillow Start to get soaked as your tears would hit it.

And the flaps to your tent Open. You look up and see Astarion. “Darling?” He calls. You were a mess. Your whole tent was really. He looks at you, hugging your pillow as you try to muffle up the sobs and cries. He sits next to you, not really knowing what to do. He was never really comforted before. Only by you after Cazedor Died. He was crying, shaking and you simply pulled him into a hug and let Him cry it all out until he stopped.

He pulls the pillow away from your face and you sob, avoiding looking at him. He lifts your chin Up and you look into his eyes, his gorgeous red eyes. They reminded you of garnets. Those eyes that shined after he had drinken from you. But today, they looked hurt, worried.

He gently kisses your forehead and then pulls you into a hug. You stood there, frozen for at least 5 seconds before your eyes started to water again, and you wrapped your arms around him. And you just cried. You just cried as you hugged Him, and that's when you spilled it all. “I am so tired!” You say and bury your face on his chest. Your crying starts to calm down. “I have so much to do. I- I just-” You sniffed and sighed. “I am tired. I haven't slept for 2 days, and I have such bad anxiety.” You say as you stopped hugging, but he still is holding on to you. You fidget with the end of the button to his shirt. “Wyll, we have To help him rescue his dad, Karlach, we need to find Dammon so he can see if he can fix her engine, Shadowheart, She has these people after her because she betrayed Shar and now we need to also find her parents, Gale, We Find a book and now he wants the crown of the Elder brain, Laezel well… she is cool.” You smiled, and Astarion chuckles at the end. But he notices everything that is put on you.

Everyone expects you to do something or help them with something. Make huge decisions For them as well. Since the very beginning. “You don't think I'm cool?” He asks and you nod. “You aren't. You are amazing.” You say and he hugs you tighter. “I'm sorry.” you say.

“Don't Apologize Darling.” He says as he pulls from the hug to look at you. “You may feel like you are doing this all by yourself. But you aren't.” He says as he brushes your hair behind your ear. “I'm here. And also I suppose everyone else here as well.” He says and you nod. You felt like crying again but your head hurt. “Also I heard you all talking and what the hell is up with you all thinking I am pregnant?”

“I never thought you were! You know I am not good with kids. I am not risking it to burst myself instead yo-”

“Shush!” You cover his mouth and he grins. “You are sometimes too loud.” You say and he nods. And you two are quiet. You don't know if you would sleep tonight or Would even leave your tent. You were still anxious as to what was coming. But, at least you know you aren't alone now.

“I know you won't sleep tonight, Darling. Would I interest you in a bath? And after a lovely love session?” He says as he holds your hand and brings it to his lips, placing a kiss. He then gets close to you and kisses you. You smile in the kiss. After a couple of minutes of kissing, you pull away and look at him. You nod. "I'd love that.” You say as you hold on to his hand.

“I love you Astarion.” It felt weird saying it. You two don't say it often, but it has a lot of meaning for you two after everything you two have gone through.

“I love you too Darling.”

[jmliebert]

bg3 on a beach (modern headcanons)

some little beach-day headcanons ˙ᵕ˙

𓇼 Astarion 𓇼

the one who brought sunscreen with SPF 50

and basically an entire beach bag of skincare essentials— lip balm, hand cream, hand sanitizer, hair comb (gold-plated), facial mist, perfumes….

….a chic umbrella that screams "I don't do tan lines" (you didn’t know umbrellas might be chic? wel, you’ve obviously never met astarion, you poor soul)

struts around in Dior or Armani swim trunks that probably cost more than everyone else’s entire beach wardrobe (taste, darling)

throws subtle shade at anyone who dares to get sand near his setup

𓇼 Gale 𓇼

sitting next to Astarion under the chick umbrella, reading a brick-tome that looks way too heavy for a beach day

loose, unbuttoned shirt flapping in the breeze, looking like he's ready to casually narrate the next chapter of his life

dips into the water only to cool off, then returns to his book (wears a wide brimmed hat while swimming because sunburns are for novices)

brings some fruits, maybe homemade snacks i(f he’s feeling particulary extra)

puts on sunglasses, claiming it’s for “eye protection,” but really so he can unashamedly observe everyone else (astarion observes everyone at the beach as well, but making no effort to hide it though)

𓇼 Halsin 𓇼

totally would have preferred to go to a nudist beach, but hey, what won’t he do for his party?

sunbathes directly under the scorching rays, basking in nature's warm embrace

gives off major retired surfer vibes—minus the board, plus a lot of wisdom about underwater ecosystems

spends most of the day diving, befriending the fish, and enthusiastically recounting his underwater adventures to Shadowheart

as the sun sets, he meditates, he’s body looking positively glorious as the golden light hits just right

𓇼 Wyll 𓇼

rolls in with a cooler full of chilled beer, instantly becoming everyone’s favorite person

the one who’s super into every beach sport there is

performs cartwheels and somersaults, showing off a little (endd up with a head full of sand)

borrows Halsin’s goggles and disappears for an hour or two, only to resurface with a story about an underwater adventure

comforts a crying child who lost their bucket, instantly becoming a hero of the beach

𓇼 Karlach 𓇼

alexa, play starships by nicki minaj

fearless of the sun—probably doesn’t even know what sunscreen is

the most grateful for Wyll's beer, probably cracking open a can before she even sets up her towel (if it's a bottle, she’ll open it with her teeth)

hypes everyone up for a beach volleyball match, whether they want to play or not

dominates the game with killer serves, yelling “BOOM!” every time she scores

𓇼 Shadowheart 𓇼

aka Wednesday Addams on vacation, complete with a black swimsuit and a hat so big it casts shade on half the beach

floats around on an floatie, giving off strong “don’t bother me” vibes

quietly builds a sandcastle that turns out to be an architectural masterpiece (It’s somehow both gothic and impressive)

doesn’t know how to swim but hasn’t admitted it to anyone. Instead, she’s perfected the art of looking mysterious while staying close to the shore

smiles at dogs playing in the distance

𓇼 Lae’zel 𓇼

laughs in the face of sunburn

side-eyes Astarion and Gale applying sunscreen, muttering something about “weakness” under her breath

joins Shadowheart for a few minutes of sandcastle building, then pretends she wasn’t enjoying it

hyper-competitive during beach volleyball, diving for every ball like it’s a life-or-death situation

inevitably gets sunburned, grudgingly wears Gale’s hat, and glares at anyone who dares to mention it

𓇼 Jaheira 𓇼

doesn't have time for this shit

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

you can find more of my works about bg3 ♡here♡

the summer is ending, I feel it in my bones, so I just had to write this one hihi

[amysgiantbees]

I just find it strange that the developers chose to rewrite Wyll. I love new Wyll I think he's fantastic and I don't necessarily want the previous version. But I find it bizarre that there was somehow so much negative feedback about old Wyll that they risked completely rewriting him.

Now I love all the companions. This is not Dragon Age Orgins where I debate recruiting Ogrun every time. But I just find it strange that the reason given was Wyll's negative feedback when most of the other characters have been unpopular too. Like Lae'zel is infamously unlikable to a great many people.

People love to bully Gale and there's even lines in game that call him pathetic. The DEV's in the IGN interview even agreed that Gale killing himself can be a good ending, " I really liked Gale setting off the bomb with the brain, and actually that felt like the right ending to me.

AS: In many ways it is, yeah." Which feels problematic to say the least, like I get supporting player choices but suicide is never the "right" way to do things.

Or even I'm pretty sure I remember Neil Newbon talking about how he was sure a lot of players had killed Astarion permanently in their playthroughs.

Then there are people being absolute freaks on the internet about Halsin all because he's polyamorous.

Like these characters are wildly popular too but they certainly have their haters. So why did they lack such confidence with Wyll? The best source I could find on early access Wyll is this article https://gamerant.com/baldurs-gate-3-wyll-early-access-story-change-karlach-explained/. It says that this change was made to make his story stronger, make him more unique, and give him more complicated emotional ties. Unless he was really basic before they did not accomplish this. He has less content so his story lacks the depth the other's do. It's also inconsistent, with you being able to put him off being a duke by telling him he'll be too power hungry which he has never been. His emotional ties are rushed. He never really confronts his father, having the tadpole do most of the work and never hashing out his feelings beyond that he's fine.

It wasn't supposed to be this way. According to the article he was meant to have a dark side like Shadowheart "According to the panel, depending on whether players allow him to go through with killing Karlach, he will become a radically different companion instead of if she is recruited." Which would have been cool but if they didn't have enough time to do that maybe they should have tweaked what they had.

Plus, according to the article in early access he was "a straightforward hero who develops a violent side regarding his patron or goblins." This article too show's that his early approval matches current Wyll pretty well except for dealing with Aunty Ethel and more goblin hate https://fextralife.com/baldurs-gate-3-early-access-companions-guide-wyll/.

I just don't know I just find it so frustrating that it was the black main character they chose to tweak and ran out of time to complete his story and still haven't fixed it with a patch. And in the IGN interview the devs kind of sounded like there wouldn't be anymore patches and it's just frustrating. Wyll deserves just as much content as any one else.

[finnick002]

How to kill Mizora in act 3 without damning Wyll

A few months ago I made a reddit post on this matter. Thought I should share this tutorial with Tumblr folks too and add a few more notes plus an alternative method to it.

Players have discovered Flesh to Stone can turn Mizora into a statue, but this tutorial helps you erase Mizora's presence on the material plane. Both methods involves the use of illithid powers, meaning you have to absorb a few tadpoles. But, to quote Wyll, that's "a small price to pay in the grand scheme of things".

Method 1. Drain Intelligence -> Absorb Intellect

You need: A character who has gone through partial ceremorphosis and unlocked illithid power Absorb Intellect,

A wizard/fighter/rogue (classes that use Intelligence for spell casting) who has unlocked illithid power Ability Drain, and a cleric/druid who is at least level 9. One character may satisfy more than one roles. If you're short on tadpoles, please refer to this page for the locations to find them.

Step 1. Let the wizard/fighter/rogue attack Mizora with any attack roll spells (e.g. Firebolt) to drain her Intelligence. Alternatively, equip Infernal Rapier and melee attack Mizora. Repeat until her Intelligence is drained to 1.

Step 2. (IMPORTANT!) Let the cleric/druid prepare the spell Contagion. Cast the Contagion: Mindfire variant of it on Mizora. Wait for her to fail the saving throws 3 times. (She needs to succeed the saves 3 times to nullify this spell.)

After 3 failed saves, Mizora will turn hostile due to the spell effect and a battle commences. This step is to make sure that you can safely kill her. Otherwise, your entire camp would turn hostile, and Wyll and Ulder would no longer be your allies.

Step 3. Let the character who has gone through partial ceremorphosis use Absorb Intellect on Mizora. It is recommended that this character has a high initiative to act first. Once you successfully hit Mizora, the combat ends, your party gain 1 XP, Mizora teleports away but leaves a pool of blood on the ground.

And then she teleports back - as a disintegrating corpse that turns into a pile of ash after 1 round. No loot from her. What a shame!

Playing flute on her ash XD

Method 2. Drain Strength -> Summon Shadow -> Strength Drain

This method is very similar to the first one. You still need a cleric/druid and a character who has unlocked Ability Drain (preferably someone with high Strength), but no one needs to go through partial ceremorphosis. Instead, back in act 2 you need Gale to craft a Shadow Lantern in Moonrise Towers.

Step 1. Equip Shadow Lantern and cast Conjure Shadow Lantern Wraith to summon a Shadow.

Step 2. Let the character who has unlocked Ability Drain to drain Mizora's Strength. You have many options like melee attacking her, or throwing rotten food, boots, underwear, or anything in your inventory at her. Repeat until her Strength is drained to no higher than 3.

Step 3 is same as step 2 in method 1 - Cast Contagion: Mindfire on Mizora and wait for her to turn hostile.

Step 4. Let the summoned Shadow use Strength Drain on Mizora. She shall die in the same way.

Babygirl you do need a good rest after 7 years of abuse and torment!

So far, in my testings, dead Mizora doesn't affect Wyll's quest, nor does he have a reaction to it. However, it makes saving Ulder a bit easier: when Ulder steps outside of his cell room, the cutscene where Mizora shows up will be skipped. The spiders will still be summoned, but Ulder won't waste a turn forced to kneel.

PS. You may notice My origin Wyll here doesn't have horns but Karlach is also in my party. Some players have also discovered this way to trick Mizora in act 1, by knocking out Wyll every night until the party have entered Mountain Pass. I will post details about this after I get a reliable way to achieve it.