#tav: nalanthar arabana

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

I'm back! Decided to take a break from the game due to circumstance and me just simply needing sleep. Continuing out BG3 story with Nalanthar, we were able to kill Nere, but at the cost of the Deep Gnomes being taken by the Duergar. I accidentally triggered the scene too because I, at first, wanted to trade with the merchant, but I needed to get some stuff from camp. I would then come back with literally everyone gone. But hey, Nalanthar was able to decapitate the Drow with little hassle. I quickly went back to Sovereign Spaw and got a concert from the fellow Myconids as they showed their gratitude for helping them.

With the Myconids satisfied and Grymforge empty, it was time for the crew to go forgin some adamantine armor. Before performing the forge battle, I decided to detour over to the Harpers cache and fight the mimic then look for the amulet with the joker effect. Nalanthar wasn't able to fully escape the effects of the amulet, but he had a brief conversation with the monk spirit that inhabited the item. The Monk asked that we return them to a dear family member in Baldur's Gate. Closer inspection revealed that the Monk has some ties to the sun god Lathander and their motives are with good intention, though the creature will lash out if needed.

With those side gigs done, we finally got around to making new armor for Nalanthar and Lae'zel since the weapons weren't catching my eye. Of course, activating the forge provoked its' guardian and we fought it with the help of the massive hammer to dwindle it down. After such deeds, since there were no other way into Moonrise Towers aside from the elevator, it looked like we were going to travel through the Cursed Lands regardless. To be honest, I was genuinely hoping there was more Underdark stuff to explore that could get us closer to Moonrise or have us infiltrate it by finding some secret passage way into the tower via the Underdark. Perhaps with Torment, since there is a nearby temple of Shar in the same area, perhaps it could lead us to getting somewhat closer to Moonrise. Regardless, we went up.

When we took a long rest, Nalanthar got his visit from his Guardian who expressed their weariness. Upon reaching the Cursed Lands, we were able to visit the Harpers instead of going the usual route to meet the Absolute cultist. They were at first on edge until the Shadows of the Cursed Lands decided to pick a fight. Nalanthar and the crew were able to handle the Shadows and protect the Harpers, which got them a front row seat to go to Last Light Inn. Of course, we meet Jaheira and learn that she needs our help with infiltrating the Absolute cult.

So far, that's where the main story stops for now. We explored around and met up with Dammon, fixing Karlach's Infernal Engine so that she can finally be physical with others. In response, Nalanthar gave her a kiss! Of course, her Infernal Engine won't last long in the Material Realm and she would have to return to Avernus, but Nalanthar decided to not touch that subject for now. Especially when he could be getting that firey pussy soon ;). Astarion and Nalanthar also went to talk with Raphael and learn the secrets behind the Infernal writings on his back, which Raphael deflected and placed us on read. Nalanthar has a neutral stance on Mol and her deal with Raphael, not really caring that much about her association with the Cambion.

This time around, we met Rolan again. Back in Admaer's campaign, because he convinced him and his siblings to leave, they were not at the inn. Nalanthar, however, convinced them stay at the grove which allows us to see him at the inn much like how Pero met up with Rolan. Unlike Pero, Nalanthar wasn't taking his shit when he decided to place blame on why his siblings got taken by the cult. When we took camp again, Mizora demanded that Wyll go hunting for the devil that was taken by the Absolute cult and held prisoner, and Nalanthar decided to bullshit that he knew a pact-breaking spell. Regardless, she got the point that Nalanthar was asking for Wyll to be released from his pact.

Before ending this post, Nalanthar had a special encounter with Lae'zel. She decided to wake him up in the middle of the night and wanted to solidify their love in mortal combat. Nalanthar, at first, denied, but he couldn't say no to those pleading eyes. So he decided to run hands with her and was able to win the fight. However, Nalanthar quickly caught on that she was genuinely asking for them to be a thing. Which is something Nalanthar doesn't really want. He wants to live his life freely and with no ties with another. And two, she isn't really his type IF he wanted to settle down with someone.

As for him and Astarion, the pale Elf expresses his desire to discover the secrets of controlling the tadpole. Nalanthar isn't interested in this either, but not because of some altruistic "nooo, but that's evil :(" reasons. He just simply has no interest in having that kind of power. But he can still be tempted to consider it.

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

Finally back with Nalanthar, let's see what his neck of the woods are looking like. So to start us off, we're gonna get a bit messy here. After doing some mild spring cleaning and shopping, Nalanthar and Wyll had a brief dance. The pair kissed and at first I was like "hehe, another booty for the collection >:)" but it got complicated lmao.

So, Astarion spoke up about how he was surprised that Nalanthar and Wyll were becoming a thing. While he doesn't mind being in a poly relationship, he knew that Wyll was a old fashion fellow and probably wouldn't agree to that. This resulted in Nalanthar promptly turning Wyll down. RP-Wise, I like to think that Nalanthar let the man down easy, as he is a mild sucker for the poetic types, but he does explain that he prefers to be in open relationships and wouldn't be comfortable stick with just one partner. And unfortunately, I had to break the news to Karlach as well.

Yep, apparently, I was this close to getting some hellish pussy, smh. Nalanthar came forward about his want to be in a open relationship with her as well, though I picked the more meaner option which had her exceptionally upset. With this mess, I decided to leave Wyll and Karlach at camp as Nalanthar needed space away from them. But with this, Halsin and Lae'zel got recruited to the active party. Yep, even with Nalanthar, I was able to unlock Halsin as a companion and quickly did his side quest.

During all of this, I went to go meet Isobel and get the Selune blessing and was able to protect her from getting kidnapped by the Absolute cultist. Afterwards, we went after the moonlantern and I was able to convince Kar'niss and the troupe to go get themselves killed in the shadows while we bloodlessly claimed the lantern and let the pixie free. I also finally got Nalanthar some new drip! He was in that god-awful early level drip for too long, and it was only made worse when I got the adamantine medium armor. But I was able to get him new drip that still gave him a reasonable AC and had him lookin stylish!

After performing a few quests here, I decided that I wanted to backtrack for a moment. Now, if you remember, Torment & Nalanthar decided to go under to reach the Cursed Lands while Pero & Admaer stayed above ground. I wanted to test something out to see what would happen if I went back to the Mountain Pass and attempt to do Lae'zel's quest before finishing up the Cursed Lands. So, I made a separate save and that's what we're doing now :D.

Before leaving, Halsin was not able to accompany to the monastery because he wanted to stay to find some solution to the Shadow Curse, so going forward, we'll be without him for a moment. Traveling to the Mountain Pass, I decided to recruit Shadowheart in place of daddy Halsin. We met that lady who wanted use to capture a Githyanki egg for her so that they could experiment on whether or not Githyanki are inherently evil or if they can be brought up to become reasonable individuals. While I was able to convince her to give us the money before hand, I'm tempted to see about snatching an egg and sending it back to her.

After watching some cultists of the Absolute get hounded into the temple of Lathander, we accidently provoked the Kobolds nearby and started a fight with them. After getting rid of them, I was able to lockpick a secret compartment where, originally, you would have to bring certain weapons to some alters to unlock it. We then jumpstart the quest that leads us to the Blood of Lathander. And because we picked up that necklace with a laughing ghosts devoted to the Sun God, we get some extra dialogue as they "gleefully" express themselves throughout the temple.

Upon reaching the creche, Nalanthar was able to glean some information about the doings of the Githyanki and how there's some mild schism as some Githyanki are looking for the artifact that we hold, yet some are more interested in the Absolute's cult and their interactions with the Mindflayer tadpole. While here, where Admaer let the young Githyanki suffer the punishments of their superiors, Nalanthar was able to convince the teacher to let the Githyanki boy be. This gave us another chapter about the Githyanki hero, Orpheus, as the young one relates us to the kind "hero" of the Gith. After having Lae'zel read the second chapter for us, we examined a portrait of Vlakkith. Looking at it closely, we noticed that there's a comet symbol on the picture that relates to Orpheus. Long ago with Admaer, we didn't get this context clues before, but now, we can definitely see that there's some bubbling rebellion that questions Vlakkith's rulership.

After buying some merchandise from the Gith, we went deeper into the creche so that we may meet Ghustil Stornugoss. Despite us trying to conceal our reasons for coming to the creche, she does find out that we're here to be cured. This time around, perhaps because I was a bit higher level, Nalanthar was able to ascertain a few things about the Zaith'isk. Nalanthar was able to admire the alien tech of the device, but was able to sus out that the device was made with a mixture of Illithid anatomy and metallic bits.

It wasn't until Lae'zel got in the drivers seat that Nalanthar sensed something was wrong. Thanks to my baller check, we learn early on that the device was never meant to extract that tadpole, instead, it would kill its hosts and keep the memories of the host within the Zaith'isk. Nalanthar was able to warn Lae'zel of this, allowing her to exit the contraption sooner than later. After lying to Stornugoss that the parasite was destroyed with the Zaith'isk, Nalanthar tried to discuss with the reality of the device, only for Lae'zel to firmly believe that the Zaith'isk was tampered with and that it must be reported to a Inquisitor.

One little side note that I thought was cute was how Astarion opened up about whether or not we were going to let Lae'zel get bodied by the Zaith'isk. I thought that was cute :).

We also learn more about the Githyanki eggs and how they are produced asexually after Vlakkith chooses a bearer to hold more than a dozen eggs. This is where we end this session and we'll continue in the next post!

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

So after dealing with Karlachs whole deal (dealing with the "Paladin's of Tyr" and seeing Dammon again), we finally made it to the Goblin camp.

Upon walking up, I've been utilizing the SHIT out of my deception checks, thanks to the fact that I gave Nalanthar the Actor feat. The Goblin guarding the entrance wouldn't let us pass unless we smeared ourselves with feces, so Nalanthar, appropriately, threw it back at him. This caused a fight, of course, but Nalanthar would be damned if he had to ruin his beautiful visage with more gunk out in these parts.

Upon entering the camp, Nalanthar and the group were struck by the disembodied voice who informed them of their three chosen and the prism artifact they want found. This would be the time Nalanthar would finally meet up with Shadowheart after avoiding her like the plauge.

Nalanthar would get up to speed about her deal, seeing her glowing wound and the fact that she possesses the very item everyone is looking for. Nalanthar asked about the artifact, only for Shadowheart to do her classic Shadowheart thing and refuse to tell him, but ask that he trust her. Regardless, Nalanthar allowed Shadowheart to join his camp, though he's a little suspicious of her because she failed the vibe check.

Apparently the Goblins are having a bit of a party because of a raid they did back at Waukeen's Rest. All Nalanthar knows of that is that they took any surviving prisoners to Moonrise up north. Later on, we'll see if that section of ACT 1 is still available after saving Halsin. Joining the party, the gang meets back up with Volo, who is now prisoner at the Goblin Camp and forced to sing. Nalanthar spat rhymes with him, but it caused the poor man to stumble in his wording and he was sent back into his cage deeper inside the camp. Nalanthar took this opportunity to show what a REAL performance looks like.

As we entered the camp, Nalanthar immediately went about acquainting himself with the leaders, getting a grasp and scope on who they are and what they want. And this is where, roleplay-wise, the gang discovers Nalanthar's biggest secret. His mother is one of the leaders leading the Goblins!

Yep, I decided that Minthara would be Nalanthar's mother. I'll explain when we get into the camp stuff. Right now, Minthara believes her own son to be part of the Absolute cult (doesn't make her respect him any more than she did before) and asks that he interrogates the prisoner (Liam) about the whereabouts of the weapon and Emerald Grove. Upon discovering this, Nalanthar went to the imprisoned Liam, mostly to get his side of the story about his quest here to get the Nightsong. Afterward, Nalanthar released him, allowing Liam to run to Emerald Grove to warn them of the attack.

Nalanthar also met Dror Ragzlin as he was trying to attempt to perform the Speak with Dead spell. Nalanthar played along and opt to perform the spell for Ragzlin in hopes of throwing the cult off further by asking questions that are seemingly useless. This put Nalanthar on near deep and dangerous waters as Ragzlin was going suspicious at the questions he was asking. Fortunately, Nalanthar's efforts paid off.

The final person Nalanthar spoke with was Priestess Gut, who tried to brand him with the symbol of the Absolute, which Nalanthar promptly refused. Because any other dialogue option would land him getting a private chat with the Goblin, I decided to end the conversation there, not ready to kill anyone here yet. As for the side characters, such as Abdirak, Nalanthar decided to indulge in the priest to Loviatar and allow him to bonk him over the head (all for that Loviatar Love boon :D). Nalanthar was able able to free Volo and invited him to his camp. While Volo is quite knowledgeable about the Mindflayers and their parasite, his methods of extracting one was quite...Unprofessional to say the least.

Now let's go into camp stuff. Starting with Nalanthar's whole deal. RP-wise, I like to think that Nalanthar refused to talk about himself throughout his journey until now. Not that Nalanthar had any secrets to hide. Hells, he didn't even know that his own mother was but a skip and a hop away from where they were stranded in; let alone that she joined the Absolute cult. For a long while, Nalanthar brushed off his own history, saying that his past is of little concern and prefer to talk about the exploits and adventures he went on when he surfaced from the Underdark. However, his friendship (and friends-with-benefits) with Wyll, Karlach, Astarion, and Lae'zel made Nalanthar comfortable to speak up about who he is.

Nalanthar admits that though he calls Minthara his mother, she actually isn't since they look nothing alike. His father was a warrior in his Drow settlement back in the Underdark and he hit it off with a Human slave, thus Nalanthar was born. Whatever happened to his Human mother, Nalanthar doesn't know. And considering that he's nearly a century in age, he can safely presume that she's dead or was killed some time ago. Nalanthar was despised by Minthara, and no matter what he did to try and appease her, nothing was good enough. He was never her son, and she had no problem telling that to the young Half-Drow. His father was no better, but he was "nicer" in that he actually raised him (in his own fucked up Drow way, of course).

Nalanthar tried to win their approval by doing Drow shit. Murdering innocents, maiming said innocents, being wholly devoted in the worship of Lolth. Yet, no matter how much blood he shed in the name of his family, he was not accepted. He was the child they never wanted, the Half-Drow; not fully Human, not fully a Drow. Soon, Nalanthar grew tired of the thankless violence and ridicule he received and decided to leave. He never looked back since. And because I'm a sucker for some softness, this is the part where he receives the group-hug-after-telling-everyone-your-tragic-backstory hug (save for Lae'zel, Shadowheart, and Astarion. Astarion only does pats on the head).

Moving on from that, Nalanthar spoke with Shadowheart to understand where and what she's been doing since they've been separated. Casual reminder that Nalanthar opted to rescue Shadowheart while on the Mindflayer ship and they've been separated since the crash. Nalanthar was surprised to see Shadowheart alive and well, having believed that she died after having not seen here for a long ass while. When Nalanthar tried to glean some information about her and the artifact, she decided to deflect. Having gotten this far and realizing that there are truly higer powers at play, Nalanthar was having none of it, so he persuaded her, with the help of the Friends cantrip, to have her spill out what was her deal. The most he got out of her was that she was a Shar worshipper and her memories are wiped; meaning that Nalanthar would have further difficulty getting any further information out of her. Nalanthar could care less about her religion, though he's more frustrated that she doesn't fully remember her mission and the purpose of the artifact.

Nalanthar also was able to score with Astarion, as they both agreed to get freaky at some point in time ;).

I was able to get the dream sequence with Nalanthar's guardian! To explain who she is to Nalanthar, when he said that he escaped the Underdark, he failed to mention that he wasn't alone. While living back at his home Drow settlement, Nalanthar made a friend of another Drow. Her real name is Jhanel, but Nalanthar nicknamed her Purple Orchid because of her peculiar hair. While the surface world is what pushed Nalanthar to peruse the life of a Bard, Purple Orchid planted the seeds for him as she was a warrior Bard. He was able to convince her to leave with him, but as they were traveling the Underdark, she unfortunately fell to her death as they were escaping the monsters of that realm.

To see his dead crush speaking to him practically convinced Nalanthar to continue utilizing the tadpole in his head, as he firmly believes that this is Jhanel in the flesh, protecting him on high. Upon waking up, the first to know about this was everyone except for Shadowheart as she still has to earn her stay at the camp.

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

Inspiration & Story: Unlike the previous two, I never got to play in a pen & paper or virtual tabletop game with this one. He was originally my Pathfinder: Kingmaker character for that CRPG. During EA (Early Access), I gave the Bard a try and fell in love with the class. Thus, I decided to bring this guy into the mix. The summary of his whole deal is that Nalanthar originates from the Underdark and had a harsh upbringing. He would eventually leave his dark homeland, seeking the pleasures and adventures of the surface world. Upon reaching the surface of Faerun, he fell in love with the various cultures, people, and dangers that it brought. So he dedicated himself to recording such stories and spreading them around for anyone to hear.

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

Nalanthar was visiting Baldur's Gate simply to enjoy the view and record new stories. So suddenly getting snatched up by a Mindflayer ship and having a tadpole forced into his head was less than ideal. He did save Shadowheart, but when it came to revisiting her, I've decided I wanted to see how far I could get without recruiting her into my camp/party. Story wise, I would explain this as Nalanthar having not crossed paths with Shadowheart yet. (I was able to evade her at the Druids Grove lol).

Right now, he has recruited Astarion, Wyll, and Lae'zel into his fold. Gale would've been a part of this too...But I failed the saves lol (I haver Karmic Dice off, so....). Seeing how Lae'zel has a one-to-one solution to their tadpoles, Nalanthar is on board with finding the Gith Creche. However, he has grown interested in the tension and drama involving the Tieflings, the Druids, and the Goblins and their whole Absolute thing.

This isn't out of a desire to do good by the Tieflings or anything, but he wants a good story. In a almost fucked up kind of way, he only chooses to help the Tieflings in hopes of spreading the story of helpless refugees being liberated from a "low-stakes" threat. And considering that he has Wyll, the Blade of Frontiers, on his side, he hopes to write his next piece about him doing such deeds.

In terms of the Absolute, Nalanthar was able to speak with the captured Goblin, Sazza and gleamed some information about this strange little cult. He even got a chance to meet Volothamp Geddarm as they both indulged each other on their fantastical stories about the Goblins.

Companion Relationships:

Astarion: Once again, doesn't know he's a Vampire, but he see's Astarion as a good lad. Nalanthar doesn't have a huge opinion on him just yet, seeing Astarion as a useful blade for hire.

Shadowheart: Once again, I'm purposefully avoiding her, just to see how far I can get without recruiting her lol. As of late, Nalanthar does think of her from time to time, wondering where she went or if she's dead.

Lae'zel: Welp, they fucked lmao. I also hit all the good marks with Lae'zel on this character, however, Nalanthar was a tad bit more willing to clap Githyanki cheeks this time around. Nalanthar isn't looking to make this a serious relationship, only really indulging her because he thought it would be a good story to sing about how he banged a Gith. Speaking of which, Nalanthar's run is probably gonna be "which of you fuckers can I get in my pants and which of you fuckers are willing to share this Drow ass." But aside from the Gith fucking, Nalanthar, seeing how Lae'zel has given him a straight answer on what to do with the tadpole, is willing to trust Lae'zel on this Gith Crech journey. Because of her exotic nature, Nalanthar has been curious of her people and their customs.

Gale: Yeah, so, originally Gale was suppose to be the main guy my Bard would romance...That didn't work out lmao. I failed all the checks that would help Gale out of the portal, so now he's currently MIA. Hopefully, this didn't lock Gale out of me getting that Wizard booty XD

Wyll: Oh they were meant to be! Wyll was the back-up romance option for when I couldn't get Gale. Nalanthar loves to see a famed hero in action, perhaps the first famed hero he's been in physical contact and speaking terms with. Nalanthar hopes to write grand stories of Wyll and his adventures, starting with starring Wyll as the "Blade who Skewered the Goblin Menace!"

Karlach: Haven't met her yet, only has Wyll's word on the matter. However, Nalanthar is eager to meet this famed Devil who has been putting names on gravestones.

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

Moving on to Nalanthar next, we fought our way to the top of the tower and faced Ketheric Thorm. Because Nalanthar also gleamed some information about Thorm and his grief over his past wife, he had the option to try to talk Ketheric down from his tyranny. However, Nalanthar was feeling heroic and decided to stand his ground against Ketheric. This time around, it was a lot easier getting through the first phase of the boss fight, and we descended into the mystery flesh pit.

Throughout our trip in the mystery flesh pit, I couldn't help but think that Nalanthar would be fascinated with the workings of a Illithid infected site. Especially since we learned from another programed brain that they use thralls or prisoners to feed the flesh, absorbing them into the meaty surroundings to further stabilize the flesh pit. While exploring, I also met with Kressa and gave her the false idea that Nalanthar and the crew were in the flesh pit to assist them in some way. I, of course, killed them soon after.

But this time around, I decided to look into the notes of the fallen Myrkul disciples and we learn that Kressa herself was also looking into the parasites and experimenting with them. So much so that few of her closest associates were beginning to fear that she would implant a parasite into them next. What encouraged Kressa into doing so is because she was tired of only being able to "create Thralls" and not experiment with them the same way Balthazar and the Chosen are able to. So she was secretly trying to cherry pick a subject so that she can have her own findings to discover. This might also relate back to Torment since she recognized him immediately and spoke fondly of their time together.

After freeing Zevlor and the Flaming fist, taking care of some undead in the other room, and freeing Mizora, we marched down to the final boss to take care of Ketheric Thorm. We swiftly whooped his ass, enjoying the view of Dame stomping his corpse to the ground. Then, Nalanthar's Guardian decided to pay him a visit. Admittedly, Nalanthar was shell shocked and felt like his was 30 years younger again. I mentioned this before, but Jhanel, his long dead crush, died many years ago by falling to her death. Nalanthar assumed that perhaps his previous adoration was protecting him from whatever afterlife she was sent to. But to see her in the flesh, here within the land of the living, it brought many feelings to Nalanthar.

One, he couldn't help but fall back in love again. The hope that she could actually BE alive despite the fall swelled in his chest. Yet, he also had a hint of confusion and suspicion about this creature now, because for the longest time, Nalanthar has been convinced that Jhanel, his Purple Orchid, was dead. Falls in the Underdark are exceptionally deadly. A hole could lead you thousands of feet to your death. Yet, despite this, Nalanthar, before Jhanel left, hugged her on impulse. Right in front of Astarion and Halsin mind you (uh oh!).

Touching her again only solidified the hope within him that he could potentially be with Jhanel again. Upon leaving Moonrise Towers, we gained Jaheira as an ally, along with the Harpers, and agreed to look for more help in Baldur's Gate.

Before ending this post, a few new things we learn about our companions, specifically Dame and Karlach! So, Karlach expressed how she used to be very close to Gortash. He was a wealthy fellow, wealthy enough to help get her and her loved ones out of the ghetto and into well-off lifestyles. Karlach thought them friends (maybe even more the way she spoke about him), but then she was sold off to Zariel to Avernus. It happened so fast for her, not enough time to compute that she was even sold off. It was then that she was given an Infernal Engine where her heart should be.

As for Dame, Nalanthar decided to ask Aylin about her relationship with Isobel. She explained that she and Isobel kicked it off right away, but her father, Ketheric, was not approving of their love. The way she worded it, it sounded like he was getting overprotective or even jealously hiding away his daughter from her. Eventually, Isobel would die and Ketheric and Balthazar would trick Dame into coming back to Rethwin so that they would trap her forever. She has been used countless times to raise Dark Justiciars it seems as she was killed multiple times; only to come back to do it all over again in the Shadowrealm. All the while, Ketheric fed off her immortality thanks to her being a phylactery for him. And by the looks of it, her attitude til now checks out.

Poor girl has gone through multiple deaths and torment, she must not being completely there in the head. Regardless of that, she is on our side and fighting the good fight, ready to bring Selune's wrath on our enemies.

One final thing though! Nalanthar had a bit of a chat with Wyll about his pact. This time around, Nalanthar was able to sus out that Wyll was around during the Rise of Tiamat incident and asked that Wyll describe the scene himself instead of using the tadpole to remanence on that fateful day. When Wyll asked what Nalanthar would've done to protect his own home, Nalanthar shamelessly admitted that he would let his home town burn to the ground. Nalanthar holds no love for the Drow society that he left behind.

This is where we leave homeboy for now. Finally, we will see what Admaer is up to in his little sticky predicament.

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

This will be the final post with Nalanthar for now because we finally got everyone caught up where we're about to take on Moonrise Towers. Continuing where we left off, Nalanthar got to see Ketheric Thorm for the first time and accepted the quest to find Balthazar and see what he's been up to. While exploring, we had that conversation with Araj, with Nalanthar agreeing to give up his own blood for a potion that's unique to him, but refusing to have the Drow force Astarion to drink hers. The pair have a conversation about this afterwards, but it looks like their love hasn't been solidified just yet, especially since I fucked up the whole relationship thing with Nalanthar lol.

We saved Wulbren and the Tieflings and sent them to Last Light, this time, we accompanied the escapees to the inn and part took in a routine check by the Harpers as they ensured that everyone, aside from Nalanthar and the crew, were cleared of parasites. This does make me curious of what would happen if we end up prisoner at Moonrise and escaped with everyone in tow before going to Last Light. Something to think about for next game ;).

After reuniting the remaining Tieflings with their lost friends and family and talking with Wulbren for a moment, we power walked to the mausoleum. There, we meet Raphael as he warns us about his rival, Yurgir, and promises to reveal the nature of Astarion's scars if we kill the guy. Upon entering the Gauntlet of Shar, with Shadowheart in tow this time, I decided to go the backdoor way to get that cool little cutscene moment with Balthazar. My main goal is to see what would happen this time around if I keep Balthy alive and have Shadowheart in the party.

After speaking with Balthazar, it was time to temple run our way through the trials of Shar. Upon meeting Yurgir, at first, I tried to Dominate Monster, or at least Planar Ally, the guy so that the combat would be easier. However, no matter how many attempts I made (save scumming is fun for some people), I couldn't get him under Nalanthar's control. So, I decided to simply go up and talk to the guy since Nalanthar is a curious individual and would be interested to hear what Yurgir had to say.

Despite Astarion being slightly frustrated that we didn't kill him outright, we did learn a few things. Yurgir was contracted by Raphael to kill the Dark Justiciars in this temple due to a song that he's forced to sing. When someone hears the song, they must die. With some careful dialogue picking and some baller persuasion rolls...I was able to tell the bastard to kill himself lmao. I honestly didn't even know that was a option with that guy! It was slightly sad because he had to kill his pet Displacer Beast friend, but also fuck that fucking pussy, I dreaded doing this fight with my other characters KNOWNING that I had to deal with that pussy. So good riddance.

After speedrunning through the temple to complete the other trials, we were able to reach Shar's inner sanctum. Like Pero, Nalanthar decided to eavesdrop on Shadowheart praying to Shar. Upon entering the Shadow Plane, Balthazar followed after us, and unlike Admaer who simply let the necromancer take the Nightsong back to Moonrise, Nalanthar decided to fight him right then and there due to the Nightsong being the primary source of Ketheric's power and possible weakness.

I tried my hand at killing Balthazar this way since the previous times I tried killing him, I kept using the barrel-mancy way out. Which, as I expressed before, is not my favorite way of handling combats because it feels meme-y to do so. But the mf is so strong that I couldn't help but go that route. And fuck was fighting him in the Shadow Plane hard. Fortunately, I was able to throw him off into the ether as Nalanthar used Telekinesis to yeet him.

Now without Balthazar being a distraction, it was now time to decide Shadowheart's fate. To spoil it, she's still alive lol. Both I and in-character can't seem to want to make the final decision to kill her. RP-wise, I like to think that Nalanthar was close to letting Shadowheart just kill the Nightsong, reluctantly so, but when the Nightsong decided to drop a lore bomb about Shadowheart, that's what changed his mind...Oh, and the fact that she might be the key they need to defeat Ketheric Thorm, of course.

After escaping the Shadow Plane, taking a long rest, and speaking with Raphael, we headed back to Last Light Inn. Firstly, before we continue, Nalanthar was the first to push the idea to Astarion that perhaps he could become an ascended vampire himself if they folly Cazador's plans; something the spawn takes great consideration of. Back at Last Light, we do attempt to confront Isobel about her name being part of a tomb we found at the Thorm crypt, but she chalks it up to coincidence. She then tells us to go to Moonrise Towers since the Harpers and Jaheria will be stationed over there to take the fight to Ketheric Thorm.

Upon arriving, Nalanthar was able to convince Jaheira to fight alongside him. Honestly, to see her filled with heroic spirit compared to how she was with Pero when the Harpers were dead filled my heart with joy. It once again made me feel a bit upset that I "fucked up" with Pero by allowing Isobel to be captured.

But now that everyone is at Moonrise, ready to take on Ketheric Thorm, we will raid the tower! Starting with Pero and the gang!

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

Picking up where we left off, after attempting to get cured from the Zaith'isk we went straight to the incubation center where there was a lone Githyanki egg. This was mentioned before, but Lae'zel expressed how typically spaces where Githyanki eggs are kept have numerous children waiting to be hatched. The primary cartaker, Varsh Ko'kuu, has been desperately trying to coax the single egg into hatching, but it is assumed that the egg is a possible dud. With his bardic charisma, Nalanthar was able to convince the Varsh to hand the egg over to him instead, claiming that he'll give the egg to another "creche" so that it would be raised with people who will give it a better chance. With the egg obtained, we went straight for the Inquisitor to tell her of the "traitor" that manipulated the Zaith'isk.

We were given the option to rat out the potential traitors, but I opted to have Nalanthar try his luck with keeping the "traitor" secret until he could meet the actual Inquisitor. This resulted in us getting into a fight with Kith'rak Therezzyn and taking the key to go deeper into the temple of Lathander.

While meeting with Ch'r'ai W'wargaz, this time around, Nalanthar decided to brandish the Astral Prism that it would soon be revealed as since Vlakkith emerged and demanded that we go within the artifact and kill the person inside. As shown with Admaer's run, this person is our Dream Guardian. Inside, Nalanthar didn't desire to kill his guardian, instead wanting answers to this whole situation. It was here that the Dream Guardian expresses that they hold the secrets that could damn the Lich Queen's rule over the Githyanki and they know the true power behind withstanding the parasite. Because Nalanthar decided to spare his Dream Guardian, we had to fight W'wargaz and his homies and escape through the secret passage way that led to the Blood of Lathander. This time around, because I picked up the Dawnmaster's Seal, I didn't have to fight for my life to retrieve the weapon, instead slotting the item into the contraption and simply taking the morningstar.

Once we escaped the creche, I rushed over to Lady Esther and handed her the egg. As we were returning back to the Cursed Lands, we meet with Kith'rak Voss who admits that they are against Vlakkith and that they require the artifact to go against their queen. Nalanthar was able to convince Lae'zel to go along with this small resistance and agreed to meet Voss in Baldur's Gate.

Back in the Cursed Lands, Nalanthar agreed to help He Who Was (HWW) to get revenge against a dead murderer. After exploring a bit, we reached Rethwin town and knocked down the few side quests and enemies. Also, remember Arabella? Remember how Nalanthar told her that she could handle herself and refused to let her bunk with him and the crew at camp? Welp, I found her body lol. Nalanthar before assumed she would be alright because she had powers now and thought she would be smart enough to not get herself killed. Or at least take a hint and run to Last Light inn. Instead, he is faced with her corpse near the Waning Pub and guilt immediately set in. This isn't a game changer for him to be more considerate of other tho, but he'll probably think twice before letting another kid run off when he could've kept them to ensure his safety.

After helping HWW with his whole deal, we ran into Moonrise Towers, this time around, we carried Halsin with us. We were able to see Ketheric Thorm and happily dispatched the Goblins, but now we gotta clear out the building of the scrying eyes and explore a bit before seeking the Gauntlet of Shar.

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

This blog is still alive! I've been having a hard time getting motivated to game for a while, but now I'm at the point where nearly all my characters are at a narrative check point. All that's left is to get Nalanthar over that threshold. Until then, Enjoy my boi in his new drip!

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

Going back to the chaotic twink over here, Nalanthar and the gang made it to the Myconid tribe and agreed to take care of the nearby Duergar that threatened their home. While there, we met Blurg and Omeluum and accepted their help in discovering the potential secrets and removing of the tadpole. And we met Sovereign Glut, which, spoiler alert, I decided to just kill him lmao. It's none of Nalanthar's business that Glut is holding a grudge about how Sovereign Spaw handled the situation between their tribes and the Duergar attack and right now, Nalanthar is gaining hero's fatigue. Most likely because he's back down in the Underdark that was once his home. Not a lot of happy memories.

After taking care of the Duergar and agreeing to deal with Nere, decided to explore a bit around this section of the Underdark. We found the Spector and the stoned Drow and this time around I tried to relatively keep Dhourn alive. And that was a fucking waste because he decided to be an asshole regardless. However, he mentioned the forge that we can glean more information about when we peek at his memory shard. Oh, and remember that Flumph erotica book? Well, thanks to a good roll, Nalanthar was able to find more information about Grymforge! Overall, we know that there's a guardian of the forge that is weak to magma and a very hot hammer, the forge is used to make adamantine or mithral weapons and we have it's exact location.

After exploring the Arcane Tower, I found the ingredients needed for Omeluum to weaken our parasite so that they may observe the little guy. Coming back to him, Nalanthar failed all the checks to maintain his sanity and composure during the experience and when on a trip. And it also EMPOWERED our parasite! Regardless, Omelumm wasn't able to remove the tadpole and only sus-ed out that something was up with the parasite. Though, he did gifted us his ring of mind shielding after we sang him a little diddy.

We were also able to find Baelen and return him home, but this time around, I was able to obtain that rare herb that Derryth was looking for. But because I was morbidly curious, Nalanthar gave up the herb to Baelan and restored his mind. Which, yeah, he was as much of an ass as Derryth said he was, but Nalanthar could give a fuck less.

When we were at the Arcane Tower, Nalanthar stumbled upon the Githyanki story about Orpheus and showed it to Lae'zel back at camp. She explained the story and because she hasn't lost her faith in her queen, she is heavily adamant about it all being foolish propaganda.

Upon hoping on the boat to Grymforge, we encountered those same Duergar that would stop our boat and question why we got their mates' ship. This time around, I just pushed homeboy into the water and commenced combat. After getting pass the Duergar guards at the entrance, while Nalanthar is experiencing hero's fatigue, he'd been damned if his path to experiencing the grand forge of Grymforge would be interrupted because of some conflict between some Gnomes and Dwarves. So he might has well dispatch as many of them as he can so there won't be any interruptions in the future. So, we helped that one Gnome getting bullied by two Duergar, Nalanthar was able to convince some spiders to ditch their master and got rid of him right then and there. Killed the two Duergar at the entrance of the boat, and talked with the kind one who asked Nalanthar to examine the structure of Grymforge.

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

Finishing off the "get out of ACT 1 and dodge" streak is Nalanthar. After getting the key to open the Necromancy book of Thay and some Goblin killing to both level up and reach the Underdark, well, we reached the Underdark!

Before continuing forward, because Nalanthar was able to see the scars that Astarion had, the pair tried to piece together what this supposed "poem" from Cazador says and why it's in Infernal. Nothing was deducted from this, but Nalanthar got himself some good eye candy. Nalanthar was then visited by his dream Guardian as they converse about Moonrise Towers and finding the source of the magic that warps the tadpole. Nalanthar also chose to read the book of Thay himself instead of handing it to Astarion.

While in the Underdark, we fought the Minotaurs and that Bulette (I mistakenly thought it was a Basilisk, that would've been far more worse lol) we reach the Myconid grove. After ensuring that Sovereign that we meant their people no harm, I decided to speak with Blurg and tell them the whole story about the parasite in Nalanthar's head. He is a storyteller after all and why not tell this to someone who is researching the Underdark. Because of Nalanthar's forwardness, we got a surprising turn of events!

We are met with a friendly Mindflayer who broke from their people, something they call the "Grand Design" where they want nothing but to destroy the Gith and enslave all other races. Omeluum is their name and despite being a Mindflayer themselves, they were not able to properly analyze the tadpole in our head. Though they do want to offer some assistance to further research this specimen. They ask that we find some fungi that can help loosen our mind so that the tadpole is a bit more susceptible. Seeing that a Mindflayer would probably know more about their own larvae than anyone else on Faerun, Nalanthar agrees to come back if he and the gang find these ingredients.

After that fun experience, I decided to be helpful to the suffering Gnome instead of bullshitting an excuse to kill her. After providing Thulla an antitoxin, Nalanthar learns that she's from a Deep Gnome guild in Baldur's Gate (perhaps the same one whom the windmill Gnome was from) and asks that we help her people who are currently being taken advantage of by the Duergar. The why of their mission down in the Underdark is currently unknown, but Nalanthar agrees to help nonetheless. This also includes helping the Sovereign with the nearby Dark Dwarves nearby who slaughtered their people

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

Let's get Nalanthar to ACT 2! So where we last left this guy, he was at the Goblin Camp. I thought there would be a chance where we could misdirect the leaders and send them to a different location. While there are options like that, ultimately, we gotta kill them. Before we did that, I wanted to finish some side quests first because I'm a silly silly. We first went to the Risen Road and decided to get that stuff out of the way. We rescued the Zhent agents who were suppose to deliver their package, but they got held up by a pack of Gnolls. After dispatching the Gnolls and even commanding one of them to eat themselves, we were able to get on the good side of the Zhent. Unlike Pero, who helped the Zhent because she didn't know they were a evil organization, Nalanthar has a inkling of what they are. But because he's a storyteller who enjoys manipulating events to weave a story he sees fit (heroic stories brings more crowds and money than those with dour endings), he opted to rescue them and get in good with the Zhent.

After doing that, I tried to do the Waukeen's Rest side quest, but I accidentally Long Rest a bit too close to the quest and only accessed the outcome after the fact. The councilor was dead and only a few Flaming Fists were around as they tried to look for Wylls' father, Grand Duke Ulder Ravenguard. This is when we learn of Wyll's history as a noble born of the Duke and agree to continue the search for his father under the possibility that he could be alive.

After qsudo-failing the Waukeen's Rest quest, we bee-lined to the Githyanki Creche thing where we meet the Gith harassing the Flaming Fist and learn of the location to the Creche. After doing so, I made a bee-line to help save Mayrinna from Auntie Ethel! Before continuing, some companion stuff!

Nalanthar is getting around homie! 2 out of 4 of the camp got that good good with Nalanthar. Meanwhile, Nalanthar has a cute moment with Karlach and poured water on her so that he could kiss her ^3^. Nalanthar also learns of Astarion's tattoos, noticing that they're written in Infernal of all languages. As for Shadowheart...Oof, not looking good for her. While the other TAVS have grown to like and sympathize with Shadowheart because they traveled with her for a while, Nalanthar has not gained that same sentiment. Especially after the whole thing with the artifact and knowing that the whole world is looking for this item, he's getting a little peeved with her secrecy. At this point and time, it's a little late to be feigning innocence, regardless of her religious standing. I was able to get the cutscene where Shadowheart and Lae'zel are duking it out, and I had it where Nalanthar sided with Lae'zel to kill Shadowheart. However, I encountered a glitch where it wouldn't register that combat is suppose to commence. This likely might be the result of the Hotfix 4 crisis, but that has recently been updated and fixed by the time of me writing this, so it looks like Shadowheart won't be staying with the party for long.

Edit: Welp, I accidentally won the Persuasion check lol. I know I could've just let Nalanthar attack Shadowheart from the get-go, but he's not a action first type person. He much prefers to use his silver and trickery tongue first before putting on fist cuffs. So she's unfortunately still with us lol.

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

Even though all of my characters have a similar end goal in Act 1 (mostly helping the Tieflings because me be sad if I be evil ;A;) I've enjoyed thus far the justification on HOW they get to that goal than anything else. Let's hear a bit more from our little Bard guy.

So we reached the Blighted Village and I decided to do some preemptive actions before going straight into the Goblin Camp. Firstly, I recruited the Ogre's into my ranks against the Goblins. Nalanthar promised that there would be a grand feast for them to partake if they agreed to help them fight the Goblins. We also searched the Apothecary's cellar, met Shovel (now named Basket), and picked up the Necromancy of Thay book. Nalanthar and the gang saved the Gnome on the windmill and we walked in on the Ogre and Bugbear fucking. Because Nalanthar is a Bard, he expressed that they continue their "bed room tango," claiming that it will sell millions in Baldur's Gate and beyond. Because of that, we didn't have to fight them lol.

After doing all this, I decided it was time I also picked up Karlach while I was at it. So I fought the Gnolls, and I first talked with the Paladin's of Tyr. Upon meeting Karlach, knowing she was part of the Blood War and fought closely with Devils and Demons, Nalanthar thought it would be a waste to let her story not be told, so he vouched for her to not be slaughtered.

Even Astarion likes her :D

After sparing Karlach, Mizora came to visit and turned Wyll more fiendish. Which, in Nalanthar's book, adds a bit of spice to the Blade of Frontiers :D. Nalanthar also had a few cute moments with Astarion, such as determining what their allies would taste like (Nalanthar could tell you in detail what Lae'zel tastes like ;) ) and he got a chance to learn about Cazador. With Karlach in the group, I might be alternating between her and Lae'zel.

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

💅🏿💅🏿💅🏿 Bombastic Side Eye 💅🏿💅🏿💅🏿

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

Taking a break from Pero, let's get into my Bard, Nalanthar Arabana. To recap his whole deal, Nalanthar is a Half-Elf Bard who originated from the Underdark. His past is something he prefers to not talk about, believing it as a story not worth telling. He eventually encountered the surface of Toril and enjoyed the new sights, people, and experiences; inspiring him to become a Bard. Nalanthar enjoys telling and making stories, manipulating situations to make up a favorable outcome that will make a good story.

After crashing the nautiloid ship, recruiting Lae'zel, Astarion, and Wyll to his active party & camp (left Shadowheart at the alter and failed the saves to obtain Gale ;A;), and staying at Emerald Grove; Nalanthar decided he would be interested in finding Halsin, if not for a possible cure, then to make a glorious story about saving the Tiefling refugees from the Druids. Especially since he has the famed Blade of Frontiers at his side, he's even more eager to continue the Baldes' ventures as they desperately look for a cure.

You know the deal by now, save the Tiefling kid from Kagha, met with Nettie, saved another kid from some Harpies, and helped Alfira with her song. Because Nalanthar is a Bard, there was a unique dialogue option after saving the Tiefling kid from the Harpies. Nalanthar also agreed to play Alfira's tutors' lute as he stayed in turn with the fellow struggling Bard. That does mean I didn't get the music video version of the Weeping Dawn, but success regardless. Before leaving the Grove, ran into Shadowheart lmao. As I stated before, I want to experiment how long I can avoid her before the story eventually says "goddamn it, take this secretive little meow meow!" so I avoided her like the plague.

Upon leaving the grove, before I even found the boar Astarion would consume, when I made camp, I almost immediately got his bit scene. Nalanthar, being a curious fellow and intrigued that Astarion can walk in the sunlight without being burned to death, agreed to let him drink his blood and kept him in the Party. Another tall tale to add to the list!

Not too long after this, we met Raphael. Unlike the previous TAVs who outright refused the Cambion, Nalanthar was at least considerate of Raphael's offer, though Nalanthar is hoping it will not come to that.

Of course, Nalanthar also met with Edowin, Andrick, and Brynna, but I accidentally started combat when Nalanthar confirmed that he is one of the individuals that survived the crash lol. Also, love the animation for the Hideous Laughter spell. Also, I am taking full advantage of this hat.

Nalanthar was able to get past the goblins in Blighted Village by flaunting his new found powers, intending to utilize these "power of the Absolute" to the fullest. There's also another reason why Nalanthar is eager to get deep into the Goblin Camp and find the leaders this camp. Not too long ago, the last time I played this character, Nalanthar talked with Sazza and was profiled by her because the goblin thought he was with another Drow that was considered "the boss lady." Nalanthar is curious on who this individual is and hopes to infiltrate them to get a grasp on who this is.

Also, Nalanthar got more of that Githyanki booty ;)

Hoping to add Astarion and Wyll in the mix and maybe Karlach as well

[flowersdaggersviolasandblood]

Fame, Riches, and Music

Name: Nalanthar Arabana (He/Him/They/Them)

Race: Drow Half-Elf

Class: Bard (College of Valour)

Background: Entertainer

WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD!

So we decided to fight Auntie Ethel, but this has a different outcome. Because Nalanthar lied about Auntie Ethel killing her brothers, Mayrinna is now a bit more eager to be saved from the Hag. After killing the Hag, Mayrinna is appreciative of Nalanthar's help, though she continues her own weeping party about her dead husband. This time around, instead of leaving her to her own devices, Nalanthar finds a wand that could potentially resurrect her husband. Well...In a way it did lol.

Mayrinna's husband comes back from the dead as an UNdead and Mayrinna decides to take her hubby home or whatever in pursuit for a actual healer. With the Hag quest done with, we go after the three Goblin Leaders. I tried to kill them as quietly and quickly as possible, and it sorta worked. Sorta. Was able to silently dispatch Priestess Gut and Minthara (bye mommy), but Ragzlin is where I fucked up. Forgot about one alert drum. Regardless, got Halsin out, went to party, Nalanthar has dirty thoughts about Karlach, and he agrees to go to the Underdark to reach Moonrise towers. Before we get there, however, I'm gonna get the key to open up the Book of Thay.

Nalanthar was able to get the cute "I love you" scene with Astarion, which immediately made Nalanthar stumble. I like to think that Nalanthar flirts back with Astarion the moment he got the vibes of Astarion. Nalanthar ALSO prefers to be in open poly relationships. He sleeps around with whomever, whenever, and doesn't like being held down by one person at the alter. In the near century of Nalanthar's life, he's never uttered the words "I love you" to anyone because he never had a relationship that warranted it. Especially since he'll live for a fuck ton amount of time anyways. So to hear those pretty little words from a Vampire, someone who would definitely outlive HIM, made Nalanthar speechless and question himself. Wondering if he feels the same way or if Astarion is being fr fr. Didn't bed him that night, but Astarion definitely won the flirting contest by making Nalanthar speechless lol.

As for Shadowheart. Nalanthar is still unsure how he feels about her. He was one dialogue option away from getting rid of her, but his persuasiveness is what kept her alive. Right now, Nalanthar is kinda thinking of removing the artifact from Shadowheart so that if he finally does decide to split from her, she can't use the excuse that she has the item. However, Nalanthar is starting to notice aspects of her that appeals to him...He's trying his hardest to not think about sticking his dick in her.