Heart of the Weave - A Baldur's Gate fanfiction - PART 1

by EmmyD94

Emmy and Gale reside happily married in Waterdeep, months after their gruesome adventures trying to save lives and escape atrocities. It's been 6 months since the reunion with their companions and they are living their best lives: Gale teaching as a professor and Emmy attending to the garden and selling fruits and veggies. However, she gets violently ill and they must find out why.

Heart of the Weave

By Emily Davis

Chapter 1

My name is Emmy Dekarios. I'm just your average woman trying to survive each day, although my days are more intense than most. A little background about my life: I'm an adventurer who was born in Baldur's Gate, a large city full of opportunities for many, both good and bad. This means religious temples, from worshiping wholesome goddesses or the gods of death and murder. I started worshiping Sȇlune as a young child and grew up researching her practices, and I solely became dedicated to her as one of her clerics. She is the goddess of silver, the moon, and light, and having her as my goddess has kept me shielding from the worst of evils; plus, I have special abilities and powers thanks to her. Well, I've always practiced them but because of her, I'm more powerful than I've ever dreamt of being.

A year or so ago, I was on a large ship – a nautiloid – where I found myself abducted by demented creatures known as mind flayers. They are disgusting, vile creatures with tentacles where their mouth is, and I guess a good way of putting it is that they wanted to start a "cult" by infection every human, elf, or what have you, which would cause them to eventually turn into one as well. The process is known as ceramorphosis. The tadpoles would crawl into the eye-sockets, digging their way into our skulls and plant themselves within the brains. Once turned, the mind flayers would feed off helpless humans or the deceased's brains, which is how they survived. In the process, they would gain the memories of those brains they ate, basically reliving their entire life before death.

Roughly seven months ago ended an intense journey for my friends and I, but in the end, I married my husband Gale who I met along the way. It started off intense; none of us knew each other. We were all strangers terrified of our unknown fate and speculated it would end in death, but we were determined to make it to Baldur's Gate alive. The gore I've seen. The people that were killed. The amount of times I almost lost my own life. Needless to say I'm traumatized but surely overcoming the perplexity of the situation.

I was one of the lucky ones that never turned and ended up cured from my infliction, along with the friends I encountered during my journey. I met Shadowheart and Lae'zel amongst the ship, who both hated each other for months but now are very close. Shadowheart is a cleric like me but at the time, she worshiped an evil goddess known as Shar, the sister of Sȇlune and admires pain. She inflicts pain on her followers that don't follow her "rules" if that makes sense. Lae'zel is our githyanki friend who also worshiped a shitty goddess, but found her way out of that hole and is now fighting beings up in space, living the dream she always wanted. Like I mentioned before, none of us knew each other. The beginning of our journey was rough, because we were all skeptical of one another, unable to trust or confide in anyone. We had to keep our thoughts to ourselves, until we all realized we were reaching the same cause: going back to Baldur's Gate and destroying the evil that kept finding us along the way.

They weren't the only friends I made, but definitely the most special ones I think about all the time. I rescued my husband Gale from a magical portal within a rock, and boy did that take me by the biggest of surprises. It was a terrifying time because if I never rescued him, he would be dead. But now we're married and oh-so in love. I never imagined my life being where it is now, but I overcame so much in the past year and a half, that it would scare the average person.

Gale had an orb within his body known as the netherese orb. At one point, he had to consume magical items to keep it contained, such as an enchanted pair of boots or a weapon of some sort that contained traces of magic. If the orb was not contained, Gale would have erupted into smithereens, an unfortunate and disturbing outcome that could have killed not only him, but everyone around him. Thankfully, this issue was remedied. We defeated the creature of the mind flayers – known as the elder brain – that contained a crown that we needed to retrieve to give to Gale's goddess, Mystra. This was the only way to cure him of his affliction. I keep my hatred of Mystra hidden from Gale, because she technically tried to convince him to blow himself up, and got mad about it when he didn't. A manipulative goddess not worth worshiping, in my opinion.

Anyway, enough about my chaotic background for now. I think about it constantly: the mind flayers, the people killed, the close encounters with death myself, and saving my friends from a catastrophic end. They saved me, too, and I'm forever grateful for them.

I awaken to the sun beaming through the glass windows, being reminded by the Earth that I'm still alive. I made it another day. I'm still not accustomed to being in an actual bed, for all the adventures I had involved sleeping outside, camping with the unknown around us. I'm thankful for being away from all the lurking dangers that thirsted for my death.

"Good morning, my love," Gale says with the sleepiest voice, his face nuzzled into my neck as he spoons me in bed. I smile, feeling his comfort and warmth against my body in the earliest of mornings. "I hope you slept well." His warm skin is pressed against mine, and it could honestly put me back to sleep. My eyes try to adjust to the morning light, focusing from the blur as I try to full awaken.

"I'm…starting to," I murmur, stretching my body as I turn to face him. I stare deep into his dark brown eyes which are heavily defined by his long lashes. I could stare into them all day. "How about you?"

"Oh, definitely the same. I wake up everyday thinking how happy I am, how lucky we are to be here. More importantly, I'm grateful we're alive." His hand is on my naked waist, holding me close to him. "Oh, how I wish we could participate in some romantic coitus right about now, but unfortunately, I have to be at the Academy in just a little over an hour. I slept in just a tad later than I anticipated." I kiss his lips delicately and close my eyes, wishing he wasn't leaving so soon. He has been doing some heavy research the past few days and coming up with new strategies to help his students learn magic, so having this time together, no matter how long it is, means the world to me.

"I understand completely. Maybe later, then. We are married after all and have all the time in the world." He chuckles and proceeds to kiss my forehead. His tressym, Tara, flies in the room and nearly scares the daylights out of me. I've been living with Gale for a year and I'm still not used to his flying feline, though I absolutely adore her to no end. I never had cats, so it's an adjustment for me.

"Oh, Professor Gale Dekarios, it's time for you to get at it!" she says, landing on our bed. "I'm glad you two weren't in the middle of…well, you know." Gale and I look at each other, fighting laughter but blushing from mild embarrassment. Only once has Tara intruded on us and it was a moment I'll never forget. That moment included her staring at us with eyes full of horror, but she didn't want to turn away. Gale caught her, and she screamed, flying rapidly out of the room at high speeds.

"Yes, yes, Tara. I'm getting out of bed. Now shoo, I'm indecent and I'd rather you not look at me." Tara flies out of the room, with Gale getting his naked body out of the bed shortly after. I am so thankful and blessed that this is my life now, and all the worries from before have faded away.

I've adjusted to Gale working at the Academy, and I love that he enjoys doing what he does. For ages, he's always wanted to accomplish being a professor and teaching magic to others, and that it will be more recognized. He gets ready and begins to head out the door, but pauses for a moment to give me a kiss. The softness and perfection of his lips is enough to get me to go back to sleep, but I have to tend our garden.

"I hope your day is wonderful," I tell him, staring into his eyes. He gently brushes my dark curly hair out of my face with his fingertips, smiling at me with contentment. The way he touches me, even after all this time of marriage, feels absolutely incredible. I can't get enough of him. Stop it, Emmy. You will have time alone with him soon enough, it's nearly the end of the week.

"And yours as well, my love. I will be back before you know it." My heart already misses his body and soul as I watch him walk out the door.

Waterdeep is still quite an adjustment, but a wonderful one nonetheless. I grew up in a large city, constantly around big parades, circuses, and a bar at every corner. There were children performing magic outside, and vendors selling weapons all throughout the area. Waterdeep? Well, it's quiet and serene, filled with vast opportunities for knowledge in the arcane and experiences as well. On top of that, it's spacious and we don't have to live too close to others, making it a wonderful time for me to start our own garden. I'd also like to point out that the crime rate is ridiculously low.

As Gale is gone for work, I head outside to attend to our garden, growing fresh fruits and vegetables that seem to be growing beautifully. I can smell the intensity of the fruity aroma lingering around in our garden. Our tomatoes and squash are finally grown so I can cook them with our dinner tonight. To the left of our home is the beach, where cobalt blue waters are peacefully residing, the clarity of waves putting my mind in a calm place. I suddenly remember about my strange fear of Krakens, but it hasn't been as bad as I'm adjusting here with Gale. Waterdeep is much different from home in Baldur's Gate. Then, out of nowhere, I begin to dissociate as I'm staring deep into the ocean waters. It seems trauma can't seem to leave my mind. All I can see are the countless bodies I've seen, all the innocent lives lost to the Shadows, all the evil that found us no matter where we turned…and how many times I was resurrected from the clutches of death. Emmy, no. You saved Baldur's Gate. You helped so many people. Think about the lives you've saved. I take a deep breath, thinking to myself that it's all over. I won't have to deal with that ever again.

Tara flies up next to me as I am harvesting the vegetables from the vines, admiring all the hard work I put into it. Her company fills me with joy, not only because she's a talking feline, but because she's so kind. Funny. Wholesome. Oh, and a good species to have for company overall. The very moment I met her I just knew we would get along.

"I know I don't say it enough, but I am so glad you are part of this family! You are one of the very best things to ever happen to Gale. You've kept him alive. You have inspired him to come out of his shell. He's no longer hungry for power, to become a God. He would've left me behind. Power gets the best of us, unfortunately. For that, you are the best to happen to me as well. Thank you." Tara's voice is full of gratitude and sincerity, making me love her even more than before. Such a delightful little pet.
"It's good to hear those words, Tara. Thank you." I stare deep into the distance where the ocean lies, noticing a strange calmness overwhelm my body as I relax from the tranquility of the environment. Serenity. Peace. That temporary clarity leads to sudden lightheadedness, as if the world around me is spinning aggressively and won't stop. Every object, every part of nature in front of me, is all a blur and I'm afraid to stand up. I try but end up falling in the dirt. The vertigo only lasts a moment, and I believe it's because I haven't eaten yet today. The sudden shift from calmness to feeling extremely dizzy was rapid, making me feel just a little sick to my stomach. I realize shortly that I completely skipped breakfast and it's almost the afternoon. Where did the time go?
"Emmy, m'dear, are you alright? I think you've harvested quite enough today. Plants are watered. The sunshine is out. Let's go inside, get you some water to drink, hmm? Maybe some lunch?"

"You're right. I need to eat something." I don't think anything of the strange feelings within me, so I manage to get up and walk inside to cook a delicious breakfast for Tara and myself.

Chapter 2

After a couple of hours and some eating, I begin to feel myself again. I may have eaten more than usual, which isn't a big deal, but I felt like I hadn't eaten in days, maybe weeks, but I most certainly have. I'm used to feeling sickly; I did have an unusual mind flayer tadpole in my brain for months, so it's nothing out of the ordinary for me. Oh, Gods, please don't let it somehow be another tadpole. Not sure how that would be possible unless the little parasite laid eggs somehow. Do they even lay eggs?

Gale finally comes home from the Academy after some time, looking exhausted but antsy to see me after a long day. He appears to feel yet again satisfied with all of his accomplishments today, and I'm always glad to see it. This is the dream he has always wanted to live and watching him thrive and reach his goals is satisfying on every level. I love him for the man he is, rather than the god he wanted to be. He doesn't have to please me like he had to try and please his pompous goddess. He places his heavy magic books on the shelf, then walks up to me with his admirable smile that I can't get enough of. He moves my brown hair out of my face with his fingers, gazing into my eyes. I can't believe I married this wonderful man.

"There's my baby," he says, pulling me into a gentle embrace. I smile, and take in his floral and earthly aroma, tingling my senses. I only see him every day, yet it never gets old. "How was your day?" Another discomfort rises within me, only this time it's a strong wave of nausea, which I believe is coming from the intense flashbacks I had earlier. Anxiety has been rough these past few months, and even though it's been easier lately, it still comes around every now and then, taunting me like a sick bully. Trauma. Mindflayers. Piles of corpses in the Bhaal temple. I try to hold back the urge to vomit. It's never hit me this hard before. Along with nausea comes pain radiating throughout my entire body similar to severe growing pains or muscle pains, but I don't want Gale to worry about me, so I stay silent about it. It's been a year since I've had to witness any of these traumatic events, yet I'm reliving them like a night terror. I take a deep breath and close my eyes for a moment, trying to stay calm and collected. Is it normal for post traumatic stress to cause pain and nauseating feelings within the body?

"It's been a day, but I've…" The lightheadedness is back again with a vengeance, and I think my feeling of illness is visibly showing on my face. "I did get some gardening done. A lot, actually. How was work?" Gale studies my face for a moment, suspecting something is wrong with me. I'm not myself and he knows it. While I'm a cleric myself, I don't have it in me to put my full potential in for any sort of healing spell. Maybe we should call for Shadowheart somehow.

"Oh, you are much more pale than usual, and that's coming from someone who once witnessed you as a half-illithid. I'm worried about you. Are you feeling alright?" Tara observes me as well and I suspect that she knows what could be wrong with me. If she does, she won't say it in front of Gale.

"I just feel a little ill, nothing to be concerned about." He raises an eyebrow, concerned nonetheless, but that's understandable. It's not often I'm actually sick, but when I am, it usually hits with a vengeance.

"After all the predicaments with mindflayer colonies, I'm a little paranoid. Then again, you've overcome so much that the average person wouldn't. I'm here for you always. Please tell me if you begin to feel worse." I wrap my arms around him once more, and he holds me ever so closely into his warm chest. It's strange; I felt completely fine up until a couple hours ago.

"I love you," I murmured into his ear. The love between us overlaps the vile feeling within me, whatever it may be. Gale smiles at me, his eyes glistening from the reflection of the sun that beams through the glass windows. I can see myself within them, but also the powerful love he holds for me.

"I love you too, beautiful." I look back outside at the ocean, admiring how beautifully it sways right outside our home. The songs of the sea put me right to sleep when I lie in bed with Gale, helping ease my anxious thoughts.

"I meant to ask this earlier, but how is your mom?" I ask as I head downstairs to grab some water. He chuckles as he follows me to the kitchen. It always delights him when we talk about his family, because he went so long without seeing them and he is most certainly a family man.

"Oddly enough, she clicked so well with your mother at our wedding that she's going to grab tea today. She stopped by to see me at the Academy and told me. She also asked how you were doing and hopes to see you soon. I let her know she can come by anytime." Something about what he just said was so fulfilling; it's so nice to have a husband that has a family that gets along so well with mine. I always worried about being the "daughter in law" that everyone hates. No, not Gale's family; they're the best.

"I honestly love them, I think they may become best friends."

"I think they're way ahead of you," Gale says assuringly. I smile, chugging down my large glass of water, but it wasn't enough so I refill my cup with more. "Were you just thirsty?"

"It's possible I was dehydrated and that's why I wasn't feeling too well. Then again, you know me. One of my worst habits isn't drinking enough water and I need to do better about that."

The next couple hours involve us lying on the couch and talking about our companions that went off to partake in their own lives, wondering what they could all be up to. I think about Astarion and wonder if he's still doing okay, considering the sun could burn him to a crisp if he's out too long. Ah, our sweet, sassy vampire friend. He was one of those who accompanies us on our adventures, though he always wanted to cause trouble. Eventually, that crazy elf grew out of that…or so I want to believe. I hope we run into him again soon. I begin to worry if he's even still alive or in Baldur's Gate, or if he started a new life in another region.

"You know, maybe we should visit our old friends. We haven't seen them in… six months?" Gale suggests. "I can't keep up with time anymore. It seems ages ago."

"Great idea. Last time we saw everyone was at the reunion. We got so close to everybody, and they always cross my mind," I murmur, stroking Gale's arm with my finger. "Karlach and Wyll in Avernus. Astarion in Baldur's Gate. Who even knows where Shadowheart is, she's all over the place. No matter. We will need to get in touch with them soon somehow." As my head is on his chest, I can hear the soothing sound of his heartbeat. However, the clock in the living area had other plans; it interrupted my peace by releasing the loud sound of a bell, letting us know it's four o' clock. It also startled the hell out of me.

"Well, my love, I will be back soon. I need to go to the library upstairs to study a book for a few moments. The students have a stressful exam tomorrow and I want to make sure I have it prepared correctly for them," Gale says. "I'll only be there for about an hour."

"That's totally fine, take your time. I'll get started on dinner." Gale places the softest of kisses on my forehead before heading back upstairs to the library, giving me yet another lovely sensation; one would call them 'butterflies.' Mine still don't go away after all this time.

Chapter 3

I get dinner prepared and have it ready for Gale on the stove once he's finished with his studies. Sweet potatoes, green beans, and some delicious steak I got from a nearby butcher. I ate just a little, but nausea found me again like a cold-blooded killer, so I lay back down on the sofa, feeling overwhelmed with these disgusting feelings. The body aches make themselves present as well, bringing an overwhelming extra sense of discomfort along with the struggle to breathe properly, as if a heavy stone is sitting on my lungs.

"Emmy, my dear, won't you go to the city to see a doctor?" Tara asks, sitting on my legs. I sigh and begin scratching her tiny, soft head. She purrs as I stroke her soft fur with the tips of my fingers.

"Is there even a doctor here in Waterdeep? Surely there is, right?" I ask. Droplets of sweat pour down my forehead like waterfalls, but chills cover my entire body. Hot flashes certainly are not a good sign.

"Unfortunately, no. There was, but they left. Now, one must travel to Baldur's Gate to get any sort of treatment. With the evil gone, it would be worth a try."

"I'm a little paranoid of doctors anyway, thanks to the House of Healing." The scalpels. The blood. The screeches of the nurses.

"The House of…what?" I forgot Tara wasn't familiar with the disturbing events that happened in the Shadowlands, one of them being a fucked-up doctor who murdered patients and considered it curing them. In the name of Shar, of course. The images of a hollowed-out human head and the mutilation of the human torso isn't exactly a pleasant memory I want to be reminded of.

"Nevermind."

"If you want to feel better, you will need to travel to Baldur's Gate, I'm afraid." Hearing the words 'Baldur's Gate' is bringing back more trauma than I anticipated, and I was born there. How things have changed ever so drastically, but how badly I want to find answers. Maybe it won't be so bad; maybe the entire city has changed since the death of Lord Enver Gortash and his obnoxious Steel Watch.

"What do you think could be wrong with me?" I ask, my voice raspy and weak. "I've never felt so awful. Well, not in a long time anyway. Not since the Bhaal Temple." Ah, yes. The lingering odor of rotting corpses is definitely hard to forget. Then again, the adrenaline rush made it hard for me to stay sick and eventually the rancid odor was easily accustomed to. Sad, isn't it?

"I don't want to say, just because I don't want Gale to overhear me." Tara knows something, or at least has a strong suspicion, but why doesn't she want Gale to know? "Plus, I could always be wrong."

Gale comes down to the kitchen, grabbing his dinner but notices my dreary body on the sofa shortly after. He stares at my heavy eyes, bags sagging underneath them as if I'm a decaying corpse or rapidly aging somehow. My fatigue is making itself known, inside and out. Back when I was fighting and saving the day, no spells would make me feel this dreadful, so whatever this is must be serious.

"Baby, we need to take you to a doctor. As soon as possible." His voice is filled with concern; he can't stand to see me like this. I groan loudly, but take a moment to catch my breath. Walking to Baldur's Gate will be a huge pain in my body, but surely I'm not dying. Whatever it takes, right?

"Can't we just…call Shadowheart? Where's that old man Withers?" Gale laughs lightly, admiring my humor but it quickly fades to a serious tone again.

"You're so cute. Well, we can certainly try to summon the bone man, but I'm not quite sure neither him or Shadowheart will be able to assist in your vile and spontaneous predicament."

"Unfortunately, we will need our other companions regardless. It seems the only option is to go to Baldur's Gate for some sort of diagnosis or cure." Gale sits down by my feet, rubbing them with his bare hands. He half-smiles as he delicately attends to my aching body, but I can see in his eyes a sense of fear.

"I assume Tara told you. Quite the intelligent tressym she is. Must have gotten it from her father," Gale teases. I can't help but laugh at his little comment. I often wonder how this man loves me as much as he does; I'm no sage.

"Well, of course she did! Now, wait…" Gale gives me a puzzled expression. "It'll take us days to get there and you work at the Academy tomorrow." He kissed my forehead, and at that very moment I realized the heat radiating off my body; I could feel it on his lips. A fever.

"It's much appreciated that you consider my job in mind, but you mean the world to me and your life is valuable. I don't want to risk losing you again. Plus, a fever is certainly not a good sign. What if you have some sort of internal infection? You never know how the world is nowadays."

So, we decided to call upon Withers. We found him in a tomb and he, for some reason, has helped us ever since. He can help resurrect those who die (most of the time, anyway), and can assist us in various ways if we're struggling. He's been a godsend to us.

He gave us a spell for us to summon him in case we're in danger or need of dire assistance: Mort Tal Witheris. At that very moment it was cast by Gale, he showed up in our living room. His decayed skeleton-like body and gentle mannerisms are hard to forget. I wonder what the old bone man has been up to these days.

"Ah, Withers. Thank the Gods the spell worked. Listen, we have a very urgent…uh…task that we need to handle," Gale says, then looks over at me with sad eyes, realizing I'm becoming more weak by the minute. Withers makes eye contact with me, observing my body's weakness and nods his head slowly. It's as if he knows and Gale doesn't even have to tell him. The question is, does he know what's wrong with me? Surely the honest and blunt Withers would say what it is, right?

"Ah, thou art in need of services. It appears she is very weak and needs medical attention urgently. I advise the journey over to Baldur's Gate but it appears there will need to be extra assistance on the way there. Does thou need the former companions to make the way there?" It's as if Withers immediately knew the urgency of the situation and figured it would be hard for Gale to fight alone, in case anything were to happen along the way.

"Oh thank Withers… We need our companions to help assist us on yet another journey to Baldur's Gate. Emmy is violently ill and I can't have her fight if there is danger. Is this something you can help us with?" Gale and Withers both look at my dreadful eyes and weak posture.

"I shall call upon thy companions to guide you along this journey. May the weave protect her and the spawn as you make your way back to Baldur's Gate. Wait here for a moment." Withers vanishes into thin air, a cloud of vapor lingering around the room for a moment.

"Wait, what did he mean by 'spawn'? I wonder if he was referring to Tara," Gale teases.

"Gale! I'm offended!" I laugh at Tara's remark with her sassy tone. Hopefulness is more present than doubt at this point, and I'm really looking forward to finding a solution to this illness. It doesn't feel like a stomach bug, but rather much worse. Please don't let it be some sort of infection or parasite. I could honestly live with anything else.

Just a few moments later, Withers appears in the room once more.

"Thy companions should be here by tomorrow. Please make sure she stays hydrated. It's more vital than you acknowledge."

"Thank you," I say with a soft voice. He nods and vanishes once more. I wonder where he disappears in the meantime. Gale and I look at each other, both of us just a little nervous but thankful that Withers came through after all. I wonder what lies in store for us?

"Well, Withers is helping us, and I'm forever grateful for it. That's a good sign," I say.

"True. Despite the rather petrifying circumstances, it's a good day. We'll get to see our old friends once more, just like we talked about earlier." Though feeling rather vile, I do have a small glimmer of excitement that's keeping me going.

Chapter 4

A faint yet loud voice outside the front door can be heard, and I begin to think: there's no way they're here already?! The sooner the better I suppose! Gale and I press our ears to the door, wondering if it's who we think it is. The voice is rather familiar; too familiar, in fact.

"You mean to tell me there's not a Whizbangs in Waterdeep? COME ON!" Ah, yes. Karlach. Karlach is our funny, enthusiastic Tiefling friend who had an engine for a heart. She was also on the nautiloid and infected with one of those parasites within the ocular region. Her story is that she was basically sold to Avernus – or, Hell – by someone she once trusted. His name was Gortash and he was one of the bastards we had to kill in Baldur's Gate. His evil political influence and desire to dominate the world was nauseating and unbearable, so we had to do what we had to do. Plus, Karlach got her revenge. He should not have sold her to Hell to serve for an archdevil. She went back to Avernus with Wyll, the Blade of Avernus, so they can fight together and keep her alive. Her engine would not allow her to live much outside of the Hells.

Gale opens the door and there stands three of our loyal, badass friends on the castle porch: Shadowheart, Karlach, and Wyll. It appears Lae'zel is still in the Astral Planes, and who knows what happened to Astarion, Halsin, and Jaheira? I start to wonder what happened to our other loving friends who started new lives elsewhere.

"Holy shit! It's Gale! Wait, is that Emmy behind you?! How'd you know we were here?" Karlach says enthusiastically, looking as if she's ready to punch an object out of pure excitement.

"Well, you do know we're married, do you not?" Gale asks her with a smirk painted upon his face. I can't help but laugh at his remark, because she was at our wedding. "Besides, we knew you were here because there's only one person – er, tiefling – we know that gets this excited about Whizbangs."
"Damn pal. You got me."

"Karlach and I found a forge in Avernus to fix her heart. We're so excited to adventure with you guys again, as long as no 'Chosen Three' or 'elder brain' gets involved again," Wyll says, wrapping his arm around Karlach's waist. I smile, wishing I could jump up and down in ecstasy from this news, though I'm dead set on the idea that I'll vomit everywhere. I already feel a knot curl up within my stomach.

"Karlach! That's…amazing news. Can I hug you?" I ask her, trying to maintain my excitement.
"Of course, soldier!" I hug Karlach, feeling her strong arms embrace me in return for over a minute. No flames are rising from her body anymore, nor does she even feel hot. She's considered my best friend and I'm more than thrilled that she's going to be okay outside of Avernus, but more relieved she no longer has to suffer. I am more than thankful we saved her life in time when she was about to explode from her old engine. I can't imagine missing Karlach and begging for her to be alive.

"I have arrived! Oh, it's so good to see everyone again. Well, most of you. I imagine we'll bump into Astarion on the road, should he be able to find us in the darkness," Shadowheart says. I hug her as well, and she immediately begins to feel the heat of my skin from the fever. "You really aren't feeling great, are you? You are burning up. Let's leave as quickly as possible."

"I have dealt with being poisoned, burned, frozen… I really think I'll be okay," I say. Now that I think about it, it's wild. Everyone is so concerned about me, considering I have dealt with much worse in the past, nearly meeting my death bed on multiple occasions. Then again, we just need confirmation this isn't the tadpole again at least. Gale takes my hand, holding it gently and rubbing my knuckles with his thumb. Judging by the look on his face, it looks like he is praying to some Goddess or God silently.

"I've prayed to Sêlune. I bet it's just a bug, but let's go just in case," Shadowheart responds, giving off a fake smile. "You never know what this could turn into." Her and I grew very close on our adventures, to the point she's gotten super protective over me. I was with her when her parents passed. She once told me I am the only person she has left, and ever since those words escaped her lips, I've considered her family to me. I can't imagine how it's been for her, traveling alone and discovering the world without a companion by her side. I'm sure it gets rather lonely.

"Well, we probably should leave now. The quicker we leave, the better," I say. "Don't worry, I set out enough food for Tara to indulge in while we're gone."

"Good news on that front, Tara knows how to pluck vegetables from the garden, so she'll be okay regardless," Gale says. "Off we go."

I close the door behind us and we head on the road in Waterdeep that leads to Baldur's Gate, though it will be awhile before we actually get there. The fresh air outside seems to make me feel more refreshed than before somehow. The beautiful petunias growing on the side of the road, the large yet beautiful pieces of architecture in the city, such as museums and the Academy, and of course the cute little markets where people are making a living… It's all so pleasing to the eye.

"So, how have you guys been?" I ask Karlach. "I see you and Wyll are together at last! I knew it would happen someday."

"You are correct! We're engaged, actually. No set date for the wedding. Wyll proposed to me in Avernus right after slaying the head off of a giant. Nothing more romantic than that."

"I was going to have it be a traditional engagement, but alas this was before we could fix her engine, so I had to do it in Avernus. I didn't want to wait," Wyll says with animation in his voice, almost like how Karlach sounds every time she talks. It actually makes me so happy they ended up together. It's funny how they were once enemies, threatening to murder one another, and now they're engaged to be married. They grow up so fast.

"Well, congrats you two!"

"Don't worry, Emmy. You're definitely invited to the wedding. You too, Gale and Shadowheart."

"Thank you, Wyll. That's appreciated," Shadowheart says. "Ah, I love weddings. I'm so glad I was able to be the maid of honor at Emmy and Gale's wedding, it was absolutely stunning. I'd relive that day if I could."

"Oh trust me, so could I," Gale says, holding my hand within his as we walk the quiet roads of Waterdeep. It feels nice to catch up with my friends that I haven't seen since the reunion party five – or maybe six – months ago. It feels much longer than that.

Another sudden wave of severe nausea hits me like a freight train, causing me to stop walking for a moment. This time, it's gut-wrenching and nearly painful, possibly the worst it's been in awhile.

"Whoa, is everything alright?" Gale asks, rubbing my back as I'm hunched over. "It's okay. Do what you need to do."

"Whatever is causing you to feel this way, I'm going to punch it in the fucking head," Karlach says. "I would expect this if you came across Cloudkill or something atrocious like that. Have you been around any disgusting spells like that recently?"

"Not at all," I mumble. "I think it's a stomach bug, but…much worse."

"I feel like a failure. I've failed you. I'm a wizard who has studied the arcane since I was young, yet I can't heal or cure you whatsoever," Gale says, sighing as he continues to rub my back. "I'm so sorry."

"That's just the thing," Shadowheart chimes in. "Magic may not be able to help her at all. At least not this time." I take a deep breath and close my eyes, trying to fight off the sickness that's overwhelming my body. So going by Shadowheart's words, magic can only help in certain conditions? I have so much I still need to understand; I should have studied the arcane growing up. However, my natural desire was to help others, cure those in pain, and bring light into the sinister world of darkness. It seems I can't help myself unfortunately.

"I'll be okay. I have waves where I feel totally fine, though most of the time I think I'll throw up. In fact, I have at least six times today." In Faerȗn, illnesses are surprisingly rare due to the magic and healing spells that cure just about anything. If there is no spell, there's surely a potion for it. Either way, magic has not been able to cure whatever this atrocity is.

After my insane episode of sickness, I finally feel a little better after about twenty minutes and we continue forward on our adventure. The scent of spearmint in the wild somewhere relieves me, and I feel somewhat normal again – thank the stars.

"So Shadowheart, how have you been?" Gale asks. "I'm sure it's been a wild ride exploring the depths of every mountain, city, and forest you can possibly imagine."

"You know, as much as I enjoy it and find new places to discover… It gets lonely. However, I'm faring quite well. But, good news on that front, I found a place in Waterdeep and moved here a couple days ago. I'll be slowing down on my adventures for a while," she says, inhaling the forest air. "I'm glad I will be around some familiar faces." This just made my entire day, knowing Shadowheart lives close to us and I'll have someone to hang out with while Gale is teaching at the Academy. Finally, adult interaction!

As we all continue to walk the long and familiar dirt path to Baldur's Gate, I notice glossy splotches of newly shed blood on some large rocks just a few feet away from us, remembering all the lives I took. Granted, they were well deserved, but nonetheless it affects me sometimes. Just because they were warranted doesn't mean I'm not affected. Someone or something just got murdered here within the last hour or two. I sigh, trying not to focus too hard on the blood splatters around us. After a moment, I began to smile, realizing how many lives we ended up saving and that we were the heroes of Baldur's Gate. We still are. All of the violence toward the evil beings was worth it, though I do question myself every now and again.

"Are you alright, baby?" Gale asks. His voice is so soft like a lullaby. If only it were a cure for my unfortunate illness.

"Yes, I'm more than alright." Part of me is so excited to get to the city. Maybe I'll see some familiar faces, and hopefully I'll get the answers I'm looking for.

Chapter 5

After about two miles, the waves of nausea begin to hit me again, but I am trying to pull through because I don't want to feel like a burden. Oddly enough, I never usually feel like I am a burden, despite all the insanity we've gone through. I proceed to puke on the ground violently and unexpectedly, feeling much worse than I did before. I clench my stomach with my hands, retching and feeling miserable as hell. When will it ever end?

"Well, that's not good. Are you okay, soldier?" Karlach asks with clear concern in her voice. I take a deep breath, realizing how starving I am after the horrid vomiting and lack of food in my system. As I bring my body up from the violent retching, I can feel shakiness throughout my nerves and bones.

"I'd be lying if I said I was doing alright. Can we camp? I want to attempt to eat." Gale and Karlach exchange glances of extreme concern, but then look back at me. Shadowheart and Wyll begin to set up camp so everyone can rest, in hopes this will help me at least a little bit. I hope we're closer to Baldur's Gate than I thought, but only time will tell. I close my eyes to take some deep breaths, and all I can visualize is Orin in my face: Death. Blood. Carcass. Skulls. I will split you open and inhale your scent to cure my hunger. I will drag you down back to the Hells and feed on you until you beg to die over and over again. I jump, wondering why her image just showed up in my mind. I think trauma is visiting me again, causing my anxiety to skyrocket and it could be the reason I've been so violently sick.

As they set up camp, I sit down to gain the strength again to walk. I sit down by the campfire, and I begin to reminisce about Owlbear and Scratch, who are both living peacefully with our friend Halsin. I keep thinking about how much they played and how happy they were living alongside us. They were more suited to stay with a nature-loving elf who has all the time in the world rather than in a tower with us, though I do hope I get to visit them soon. Believe it or not, those two furry creatures saved my life multiple times.

Gale sits down next to me by the cozy campfire, handing me a pork roast and some potatoes to eat. The cackling of the fire relaxes me, nearly putting me to sleep where I sit. I finally feel my brain ease from tension, relaxing as I stare at the delicious food in front of me.

"Here, I hope you can eat. You need to fill up that stomach of yours," he says. I managed to take a few bites, which ended up turning into the entire plate. After eating everything handed to me, I begin to feel like a brand new person. Maybe I just need to eat frequently. If that's been my problem this entire time, I will lose my mind.

"That…helped. Thank you." Gale smiles, wrapping his arm around me as I drink my water. "Whew. I actually feel great. Thank the Gods."

"If your only issue was that you were hungry… Well, that's valid because it's the same for me," Karlach says, shrugging. "I'm not me when I'm hungry, though I'd like to say I'm not nearly as dramatic as you are when it comes to food. On that note, I'm so glad that helped you." I stand up, not feeling nearly as shaky-legged as I was before, and I am actually able to pay attention to the lovely scenery around us. The campfire brightens up the sky, making the area calming and aesthetically pleasing.

"I'm so glad my baby is okay. We still need to figure out what's going on in those innards of yours though," Gale says. Shadowheart gives him the stink eye, squirming at the word that makes her feel extreme discomfort. I can't help but burst out laughing at her disgusted expression.

"Ew, Gale, do not say 'innards.' That word gives me the heebie jeebies," she says. Of course, Karlach has to chime in with her outburst of saying "INNARDS!" Wyll and Shadowheart both roll their eyes and sigh, though Wyll is very much aware of what he signed up for.

"Well, I'm still breathing, despite everything," I murmur, taking a deep breath as I begin to feel more myself again. "Though I've had some very close calls, including today."

"Well, between the mind flayer tadpole, Astarion biting your neck, Ketheric, Orin, and Gortash, I'd say it's a damned miracle you're still alive. Thank the Gods, though." Wyll has a point. I'm lucky any of us are still alive. Karlach and Gale both had extremely close calls, between her engine nearly blowing up and Gale himself blowing up from the netherese orb.

Gale and I lie down in our tent, curled up but yet comfortable. The sound of crickets chirping is somewhat comforting to listen to as I lay here attempting to sleep. They bring back some sort of nostalgia. It's been awhile since I've had to camp; I'm so used to our bed at home, embraced with our thick, suede comforters with a sleek pillow underneath our heads. As I fall asleep in Gale's arms, I feel his fingers brush my hair out of my face, relaxing me. He knows how to make me fall asleep with ease, and it's something he does every night. When he's anxious, I play with his hair and run my finger down his bare chest delicately.

"Sssh…" he hushes, admiring me as I begin to fall into the deepest of slumbers.

When morning arrives, we immediately get up to pack up our camp and head out. Luckily, we don't have too much farther to go, but we are rushing through the area that was once the Shadowlands. Maybe on our way back we can admire the new structure and pay our respects to the tieflings that lost their lives trying to find refuge in Baldur's Gate. As we are walking along the trail, a loud rustling noise is heard behind the bushes nearby. It doesn't sound like a small animal but rather someone is in hiding, keeping tabs on us. Not the first time someone is being sent to spy on me.

"What the Hells is that?" I ask, looking around us in hopes I can figure out what it was. Could it be a goblin? Maybe what's left of the Absolute cultists? Surely not, because I remember wiping out all those predatory assholes.

"I swear, if it's Astarion playing pranks on us, I will lose it," Karlach chimes in. "I hope that's what it is, at least."

"Well, unfortunately he can't be out in the sunlight or he'll burn into a crisp. Silly Karlach."

"You got me there!"

The person – erm, a half-orc – reveals themselves as we try to press forward and to our surprise, they appear to be an unfamiliar face, with nothing but a raggedy white shirt on and 'face paint' on their face that seems to be made of blood, resembling the mark of the Absolute. Oh Gods, here we go again.

"Oh for fucks sake," Karlach groans, leaning her head back as the orc approaches us. I take a few steps back, trying to observe their body and face, making sure I haven't seen them somewhere before.

"Whoa, uh, who are you?" Gale asks, positioning himself to stand in front of me. The orc's nostrils flare as they look around the area, as if they're trying to locate something – or someone – specific. I notice his fists clenching, causing the veins in his arms to bulge through his green flesh.

"I'm looking for…" His voice is deep and ominous, giving me the creeps immediately. He spots me and points directly at my body, giving me a grim smile and knowing damn well who I am somehow.

"Oh Hell," I say, groaning under my breath. Karlach approaches the orc with a pent-up body posture in an attempt to intimidate the guy, but he doesn't seem to be a bit threatened.

"Not one of you fucking clowns. We killed your 'God' or whatever it was, what else do you want?" She says, growling under her breath. She may be a goofball, but she can also be terrifying to get entangled with. The orc looks at Karlach, holding back laughter. There appears to be some sort of secret he's hiding, or maybe he's part of another cult. I study him, noticing a sort of anger hidden in his eyes, or maybe a hunger for control.

"That was just one elder brain. You think there aren't more? You think this will ever stop? It's far from over, you ignorant fools," he growls, getting extremely defensive. "I ought to rip your brains out of your thin, delicious skulls and eat them for dinner tonight unless you submit to the Absolute." Wyll whispers in Karlach's ear.

"Is this guy on something?"

"Damn, I really am more trouble than I'm worth apparently," I say followed with an irritated sigh. This isn't the first time I had someone demand my presence, nor is it the first time someone is trying to convince me to join their cult.

"No, don't say that please," Gale says. "This guy is just delusional. Clearly, there's no more Absolute and he's just off his rocker. Though, he does look like he'll pound our faces in with those angry fists of his. They're rather beefy." He appears to be a barbarian like Karlach, judging by his muscles, rage, and the battleaxe on his back. As his nostrils continue to flare, he looks fed up and impatient, ready to attack any second.

The orc tries to charge at me, but Karlach bludgeons him in the torso with her warhammer, causing a massive indention in his stomach and knocking him several feet away from us. He lands on the ground, causing dirt to rise up in the air from the intense impact of his body. He groans loudly in pain, but continues to move regardless. Blood drips from his body as he tries to stand up from the ground. He gets back up on both feet and charges at her like nothing happened, knocking her over on her back in return. Gale then uses the Magic Missile spell, which hurts him pretty badly, and I can tell by the look on his face and body posture that he's contemplating on giving up. The man looks much tougher than he actually is, lucky for us. He stands up once more, looking defeated but proceeds to glare at us with a disturbing look, his eyes shifting to a blood-red, hungry for blood. It's as if he's being controlled, and I don't doubt it because I have seen this look before. What source is taking over his mind?

"This won't be the last of me," he threatens, his voice somehow deeper than before. Wyll then performs Eldritch Blast, causing him to fly back several feet; this time, he didn't stand up. His deceased body lies there, a necrotic energy escaping every orifice.

"Oh Gods," Shadowheart says, "now I'm afraid to see what's going on in Baldur's Gate now. Hopefully we won't come across more trouble like that again."

"As unfortunate as this sounds, it appears someone got ahold of the crown that was given to Mystra," Wyll chimes in. This just changed everything entirely, leaving us horrified at what's to come next. Could it be that Mystra could not handle the crown? How could a goddess, especially the Goddess of the Weave, not handle such a powerful artifact? Who would manage to take such a powerful item from such a demanding, potent deity?

Chapter 6

"It…It can't be," Gale murmurs, an expression of horror on his face. I can't even begin to think of what her reasoning could be, but then again, Mystra is a delusional and selfish goddess that will gladly do anything, good or bad, as long as it benefits her. The fact she groomed my husband and demanded the worst from him starting a young age speaks volumes about her character.

"Why on Earth would Mystra do this?" I ask. "You would think someone like her could handle it. What in the…"

"Unfortunately, you know just as much as I do. Who would have it in their hands? Who would she have given it to? Surely no one stole it, not that it makes it any better." We all sigh, trying to process this predicament. Whoever has the crown can cause catastrophe or control the entire world like the elder brain attempted to do, and mostly succeeded.

"You know how I feel about that snot-nosed and self-absorbed goddess. She most definitely gave it up," Karlach implies, and more than likely she's correct. "No offense, Gale." It seems we're more doomed than we originally thought. We left Waterdeep not thinking anything of it, not considering the possible dangers we would be in. Regardless of where we live, we're in trouble, but I'll be honest: I'm glad we found out this way.

Baldur's Gate is up ahead, awaiting our arrival and it seems to be just as lively as it was when we left before. The trees through Rivington are lively and flourishing with life, brightening up the scenery. The old circus has been torn down and replaced with other new buildings, such as homes for refugees and even a lovely museum. Though that general area reminds me of the horrific past of having to murder a shapeshifting clown, I can't help but smile, observing the crowds and smelling the sweet aroma of fresh foods from the markets. No more posters of Gortash. No more Steel Watch. The city has changed dramatically since we've been here last and it's definitely more clean than before. I also notice even more homes set up for refugees, a parade in the distance, and new amenities such as an upcoming new circus in a different area that hopefully won't be filled with shapeshifting creeps in search of blood and body parts to sacrifice to the god of murder, Bhaal. Though, it's safe to say that the temple is still alive and well unfortunately, which means the potential for murder and destruction is still there.

I love listening to the sound of bards playing their tunes while the parade is keeping the cityfolk entertained. It feels nice and comforting being back home, even for a moment. Hearing the sound of children laughing and dogs barking while running through the city is a sound that reassures me everything's okay and I have nothing to fear. While there have been traumatizing events to happen here in more recent times, this is where I was born and raised, where I learned how to hone my war cleric skills, where I stopped an elder brain from dominating the world. So many memories, both good and bad, and some I miss dearly. Businesses are thriving! I notice more restaurants and bars on every corner, looking to be restored and with newer, more friendly staff. Some of the previous owners of some of the bars were not happy to be there, or were killed during the fight with the elder brain.

"While you guys go to the healer or whatever, Wyll, my hammer, and I are going to visit with Fytz and catch up. She had her baby! I'll meet you all back here," Karlach says. She takes Wyll's hand and off they go merrily, without allowing us to say another word. As Karlach and Wyll head out, we attempt to locate the doctor, but the city is so big and the lack of signs make it an obstacle, but after speaking with a couple townsfolk for directions, it appears they're located in the Upper City. It's strange; last time we were here, we were helping the city clean up all the dead mind flayers from the streets right after defeating the brain. So many people died as illithid and not themselves, which broke my heart to discover. I'm thankful everyday that wasn't my fate, and I'm lucky I was one of the fortunate ones that was protected.

"How are you feeling?" Gale asks with a hopeful look twinkling in his eye. I sigh, holding my hands against my stomach as a nauseating knot forms once more. So help me if the smell of meat gets near my face, I'll definitely vomit. That wasn't the case last night though. What the hell is going on? Gale rubs my back gently as I take a deep breath to keep it all in.

"Like my stomach is being twisted around and punched multiple times. I feel better than I did, though," I add. I could be feeling much worse.

"Thank Sêlune that we handed that orc's ass to him before he could get to you," Shadowheart says with relief in her voice. "I'm so sorry you can't fight in this condition, but I'm glad we could protect you." I smile at her comforting words, making me feel slightly better about the situation. Months ago, I could destroy a man with my sword in one hit. Now, I'm so weak I can't even lift a fucking sword.

After some walking through the city and grabbing food from one of the local vendors, we finally find the doctor, who is apparently new to Baldur's Gate and came from Neverwinter directly after the brain and its thralls were defeated. We go inside the building and notice several paintings of animals, one of them being a wolf. I just know the doctor is a druid.

"I'll wait outside if you need me. I'm still terrified of wolves, even if it's a painting," Shadowheart says. "You can thank all of my trauma for that, which I can't seem to recover from."

"We shouldn't be too long," I tell her. She half-smiles and nods for us to go inside. Gale and I walk in, noticing a younger wood-elf druid at the counter. Ah, so not only was I correct about the doctor being a druid, but now the paintings within the building make more sense. Then again, it makes sense for a healer to be a druid in the first place. His golden-blonde hair touches his shoulders, freckles covering every inch of his cheekbones, and his forest-green eyes are enough to gain someone's full attention, so bright and lively. Like Halsin, he appears to be extremely friendly.

"Hello, welcome! My name is Jasik. How may I help you two today?" he says, a positive and welcoming tone within his voice. A small, white cat is sitting on the counter, licking its paws.

"I need help and fast. I'd rather not discuss my symptoms out in the open. Can you help me?" I ask. "I'm rather…ill." He nods, opening the door of the counter and walking us to the hallway.

"Come. Let's get you to the back." Gale and I hold hands as we follow the young man to the back room. The building reminds me of a beautiful cottage or cabin, a very comforting feeling that gives an "at home" aesthetic. As we walk, we notice more paintings are hung up on the walls through the hallway.

"Well, if Shadowheart gets sick, this is not the place for her," Gale whispers. We walk into the room with the doctor, sitting down on the beautifully carved wooden chairs that seem to be made of oak.

"Glad to have you both here today. Could you kindly explain the issues you're having?"

"Well, where to start," I say with a soft voice. Gale squeezes my hand, admiring me as I speak. "A lot of nausea. Light headed. Body aches. Vertigo… The list goes on. Oh, and a random fever that comes and goes when it pleases. Not consistent at all."

"And no healing spells or potions are working for you?" Jasik asks. I shake my head no and sigh. If only the answers were that simple.

"And the tadpole I had, it's been gone for over a year," I mentioned. "These symptoms may not sound as bad as I'm making them out to be, but… Man, they feel intense. And this is coming from someone who has been poisoned, burned, and licerated. Someone who was almost a mind flayer." Jasik observes me, trying to see if he can locate any physical symptoms I may not be aware of. He advises Gale to leave the room, but not to be too worried. I'm not sure how I feel about him not being by my side, but surely it's for safety or privacy concerns…right?

"I'll be outside if you need me," he says, kissing the top of my head. Gale's eyes are full of worry, and he looks at me as he leaves the room to go stand outside with Shadowheart. I begin to panic even more now, though Jasik said everything seems to be fine. I wonder how serious it is that he can't mention it in front of my own husband.

Jasik grabs a needle and a potion bottle filled with some mysterious clear liquid, which isn't water, that looks extremely unfamiliar. I stare at the medical instruments in front of me, questioning to myself what kind of procedure this is and what I got myself into. I have never heard of anything like this before.

"I'll need to prick your finger for blood, then I will add it to this potion bottle. The color of the liquid determines what issue you have. If it stays red, then you're fine. Green is not good and a cause of serious concern. Blue or purple is more 'mild,' such as a stomach bug, cold, or pregnancy. You'd think I'm some sort of sorcerer or wizard, but the truth is, I'm a druid. I did attend school for the arcane as a young boy and did various studies with top-notch professors, though." I sit here quietly, staring at the potion bottle in front of me, dying to know what color the liquid will turn and what this means for me. He pricks my finger rather quickly, squeezing the droplet of blood into the bottle. The blood swirls within the liquid, causing it to change various colors. I swallow nervously, my attention hyper focused on the bottle and bubbling liquid within.

"That is a rather interesting process," I say. I'm thinking about how Gale might be feeling, and if this is another tadpole situation. I never got captured again, so surely that's not the problem, right? "Is this a common practice?"

"Well, it's becoming common. In Neverwinter, this is how we have discovered the answers to various of problems and illnesses. With the knowledge of the arcane and nature's guidance combined, it's been extremely accurate and hasn't failed us yet! They brought me here to help spread the word. Plus, there aren't enough healers or doctors in Baldur's Gate."

Jasik observes the potent potion as it turns into a very vibrant purple color, bubbling with intensity. The colors remind me somewhat of the Underdark. My anxiety is rising just slightly as I wait on his response to the color change. He gasps as he turns around to face me; however, he's smiling, so it must be good news.

"Well? What's wrong with me?" He claps his hands together, taking a deep breath while he's still in a very enthusiastic state.

"Oh, praise Silvanus!" he exclaims. "You are going to be okay. Nothing to worry about at all, you just need to stay hydrated, take it day by day. Be wary of what you eat. Just…lots of rest, dear." I smile, sighing in relief at his comment.

"So, I'm not terminally ill or anything, it's just a stomach bug?" Jasik hesitates, as if he's trying to figure out the words to say as I still sit here, waiting for some sort of explanation. Why can't he just tell me outright? "I'll take that as a yes and I'll be on my–"

"You're pregnant," he interrupts, placing his hands over his mouth as if he's excited for me. I pause, unable to respond to his words from the sudden news that was just thrown in my face. My hands begin to shake as I try to process this.

"W-wow, I did not expect this. Um… Why am I getting a fever if that's the case? Are you sure I'm not just sick?" His smile does not fade but he shakes his head in response.

"The potion does not lie. You are absolutely pregnant. This has been tested by our most knowledgeable of scholars, and has been proven correct with previous patients in the past. I do want to ask – do you plan on keeping the child? I ask because if not, you could swallow the potion and it will…um… Cancel out the pregnancy." I sigh, staring at the potion that could determine my fate, but I refuse it.

"No, I… I'm keeping the baby." I walk out of the office nervously, heading toward the front door. I hold my stomach, unable to think clearly as I try to contemplate on how I'm going to tell Gale. I'm not even sure I want to leave the building right now.

Chapter 7

Gale's Point of View

I'm waiting outside the facility with Shadowheart, questioning if Emmy is alright and how I wish I could be there for her. I have numerous questions racing through my mind such as: I wonder why I was asked to leave the room if I'm her husband? What would he be telling her that I can't be there for? No matter, I suppose; nothing I can do except leave the man to his practices. We stare at the outskirts of the city, admiring the entertainers and noticing a new circus is opening up downtown.

"What do you think is going on in there?" Shadowheart asks, both of us staring in the distance ahead of us. "It's taking quite a long time."

"I wish I had the answer to that question. I'm sure everything is fine. Besides, if it were fatal, she wouldn't have waves of feeling perfectly fine, right? It may just be a bug. Ah, if only we had a doctor back in Waterdeep."

"If they don't remedy that soon enough, I may lose my mind. Maybe I should become a doctor. I am a cleric after all. I am perfectly capable of curing the wounded and guiding them to a path of spiritual healing."

"A religious doctor? I'd love to see how that plays out."

"Shut it, Gale." I notice Karlach and Wyll heading our direction, Karlach appearing to be more enthusiastic than usual as she approaches us. It seems she's trying to convince Wyll to take her to the new circus and all I could hear was him saying, "No, not right now. Maybe later, okay?" Thank the Gods for Karlach's energy, otherwise I'd be even more anxious than I am right now.

"OH. MY. GODS. Fytz has the cutest baby I have ever seen. I'm so glad she's alive and well after what went down in the city over a year ago. Man… How fortunate for them. Now I need a baby to cuddle… But I don't want kids," she says with the utmost energy in her voice. "I need a glass of wine."

"Are you going to be that weird aunt that brings too much booze to the parties?" Wyll teases. She elbows him playfully in the shoulder. I chuckle, rolling my eyes at their nonsense, though I will say I think their relationship is rather sweet in a chaotic sort of way.

"Shhh! Don't give away my secrets! Say, where's Emmy? Is she still in there?" At that very moment, the door opens and she walks out, her skin still pale and her face in complete shock and bewilderment. Her eyes are staring at the ground, not making any contact as she walks out. She appears to be speechless and I begin to worry about what happened in there. What did he tell her?

"There she is! Looking like she might die, but she's here," Karlach says. Emmy still doesn't say a word, not even a light smile appears on her face, just a blank stare. "Oh. Soldier?"

"I'm…okay. I won't die thank the Gods," she murmurs, but there's still something she's still hiding. I walk up to her with a smile, waiting to see if she's going to say anything about her situation. Her bottom lip appears to be quivering, as if she's trying to fight off the urge to cry. My smile fades and worry takes over, making my heart race at an intense speed. She keeps trying to speak, but not a single sound escapes her lips.

"Honey, I'm worried about you," I say. "Can you please tell me what's going on?"

"I'm pregnant. We're having a baby." At that very moment, I could feel my heart sink to the inner abyss of my stomach, causing a hint of nausea as she confides the unexpected news to us. Everyone stares at her in astonishment, then all eyes are on me shortly after. I'm unsure how to respond, and I also can't explain what feelings are swimming around inside me at this moment. We've been married awhile, we love each other deeply, we're more than content with our home lifestyle. So what is the problem? Why do I feel this way?

"You're…pregnant?" I mutter, trying to process the words she said out loud. I certainly can't see the expression on my face, but I imagine it's a blank look. "We're…having…"

"Gale? Are you going to be alright?" Wyll asks. "The poor man looks like he's going to faint."

"Were you eavesdropping on our conversation? How I said I need cuddles from a baby? Or…am I crazy?" Karlach asks.

"I think the crazy ship has sailed long ago," Shadowheart says with a chuckle. "Besides, I think she's serious."

"Holy shit." I wrap my arms around Emmy, feeling the warmth of her tears soak themselves in my robe. I want to be there as much as I can for her, though I will admit this comes to an extreme shock. Silence is very present right now as well as trying to process this unexpected news, though I honestly can't say I'm surprised in any way. I look into her dark eyes, wiping away the tears on her cheekbones with the tip of my thumb. She closes her eyes and takes a deep breath as I try to comfort her, which seems to help to some degree. This isn't bad news for us, but I will say we weren't exactly planning on having a family of our own.

"It will be okay," I whisper in her ear. "As long as we can avoid any Absolutists or bloodthirsty devils at all costs, we should be okay. We need to head back to Waterdeep as soon as we can."

"Without saying hello to your favorite bloodsucker? How rude," a familiar voice mutters nearby, and we all turn around to see Astarion standing there in the open, smiling and exposing his hungry fangs. "And darling, I heard the news. I do hope you're alright."

"Astarion! Wow… I didn't realize the sun is already setting," Emmy says. "How are you? What are you up to?"

"To be honest, I'm trying to get out of this god-forsaken city. Ugh! Then again, when Raphael has the crown, we're fucked no matter what." More news for my exhausted mind to process. Why and how would Raphael have the damned crown?

"RAPHAEL?!" Shadowheart and I shout, intense shock in our voice. That is not the news I expected to hear today, but I'm also not surprised. With our sheer string of weird luck, I'm not quite sure what to expect anymore. On top of that, as if the entirety of our situation couldn't get worse, Raphael is now an archdevil and has complete control of all nine Hells. He also might be after Emmy now, but I sure hope that's not the case. However, I do not think Raphael's intentions are to overpopulate the world with mind flayers, so there's that going for us at least.

"Boy! What a day!" Karlach says. My mind is racing with so many thoughts and fears, like: what will happen if Raphael has the crown? Will I be a good father? Will I be strong enough to protect my family should anything happen?

"Gods… Why? There's way too much for me to process right now," I mumble. Emmy continues to hug me with her head lying on my chest. I kiss the top of her head, trying to ignore these worries but I doubt they'll perish any time soon.

"We will get through this like we always have. I promise," she says, looking up at me with her innocent brown eyes. I can't help but smile at her, the love of my life, the one person who keeps me the man I'm meant to be. She's right.

"As much as I love romantic dramas as much as I love debauchery, I'd really like to know… If it's okay that I come back with you all. To Waterdeep," Astarion asks. "I know that was very sudden and you'll need time to think about it, but holy Hells, I can't be here any longer."

"What? You don't like it here, even with Cazador gone?" Shadowheart asks.

"There's far too many memories here for me, way more bad than good. I'd like to start anew. Everywhere I turn, I see Cazador, even though he's dead. I'm reminded of the alleyways where I was beaten to a pulp and then turned. I can't live like this anymore, facing my own trauma day by day. I don't want to live in fear any longer."

"Well, come stay with me. No offense, but I can't for the life of me imagine you living with three humans, one of them being a baby."

"Aw! I'm offended, but also, you're not wrong at all. Fine. I accept your offer." Emmy and I watch these two have the most humorous conversations, grateful that we're reunited as a group, even if it's a temporary situation.

"Bite my neck though, and your ass is grass."

"Aw, I love family reunions!" Karlach cheers while jumping up and down.

I look at Emmy, nodding to the north to have her follow me to a distant area for a moment, allowing everyone to catch up while we get some private time. The sun is setting beautifully while the moon ascends into the lavender sky. The entire city is bright underneath the silver glow. We find an empty field of grass and various flowers just west of the city.

"Come sit in the grass with me," I tell her. She sits down next to me and we both admire the glistening silver stars in the sky. I hold her hand as we admire the night time atmosphere.

"I love you, Gale. I always have and always will," she murmurs, grabbing my face and planting a delicate kiss upon my lips. I feel a calm feeling overwhelm my body and I finally feel less anxious than before. I don't want her to know about the anxiety I felt earlier. She doesn't need to feel worse.

"And I love you until my dying breath." As I say these words to her, I notice something is on her mind. She begins to disassociate. "Is everything alright, baby?"

"Just thinking about the crown, how there needs to be some way to get it back, how the world might be worse than it was with the elder brain." She sighs, leaning her head back and I can tell she's under a lot of stress. I wrap my arm around her and kiss the side of her head.

"I don't think Raphael would do anything like the brain did. If anything, he will use it as a means to be the master of the Hells, where Zariel and the other archdevils will have to bow down to him and serve him. In reality, it's a means for power in Hell."

"You're definitely right. I shouldn't be worrying so much. Thank you." She takes my hand and places it on her delicate, small belly, where our child is growing.

"So a baby, huh? Boy, that will certainly change our lives," I say. We both look at our hands that are placed on her stomach, just admiring it as we're sitting outside underneath the astral sky.

"Right now, I'm just in shock, but… I will get used to the idea. I know I'll love him or her, no matter what." She turns to face me with her adorable eyes, admiring me with her gaze. She wraps her arms around my neck, kissing my cheek. I chuckle and return the favor by kissing her lips, placing my hand underneath her chin. Our tongues intertwine as we kiss passionately, just enjoying each other's company underneath the darkest of nights. Is it strange I don't want this night to end?

Chapter 8

Emmy's Point of View

We decided to stay at Sharess's Caress overnight so we have some comfortable beds to stay in before we head back home tomorrow. We hit up the Elfsong Tavern for some food and drinks before heading back to the Inn. It's pretty late but luckily for us, we're used to inconsistent times of activity. We sit at the table, waiting for our food to arrive, just simply enjoying each other's company.

"Part of me really missed Baldur's Gate," Gale says. "When we were here last, all we did was…well, watch several unfortunate and catastrophic events occur one after the other, and smell the horrific odor of bloody corpses. Now, we can actually enjoy sitting at the tavern, or –"

"Watch other people get at it with a drow, get naked in the fountain in the middle of the city, drink alcohol from Hoots that will turn us into sheep. Ah, the fun stuff," Astarion interrupts, looking content just thinking about these debaucherous acts.

"I at least want to do one really fun activity before we head back home," I say. "Though, I know we don't have time but one can only dream, right?"

"Name one thing that isn't what I listed, I'll wait."

"My options are limited, friend." He rolls his eyes but proceeds to smirk at me. I can tell that he secretly wants me to participate in some 'extreme' fun, which used to be me several tenday ago. I laugh as I take a drink of my ice-cold water. Refreshing.

"Speaking of which, I'm so PUMPED about being aunty Karlach. Just imagine all the adventures we will have!"

"Karlach, you're not taking my baby to Avernus," Gale retorts, fighting laughter. "I imagine it would not end well for any of us. Plus… I'm getting used to the thought of having a miniature version of yours truly."

"Aw! Look at Gale getting all comfortable with being a dad, how cute! But can we at least pretend I'd be traveling through the cores of the Earth to the Hells with your spawn? 'Auntie Karlach, can you please take me to Hell so I can slay some demons or giants or whatever?' and I'd be all like 'HELL YEAH, LET'S GO!' I'm really great, Gale. I'll be a wonderful influence." Gale turns his head, hiding it away so no one can see him laugh, though I hear it loud and clear.

"Oh damn! Speaking of which, we actually need to return to Avernus soon," Wyll mentions. "Well, more like a couple days. I just realized how much I was enjoying this little break." Karlach leans her head on his shoulder, Wyll looking at her sweetly as he wraps his arm around her bulky shoulders. Spending time with my companions makes me almost wish we could adventure together regularly, or at least see each other more. While I don't miss the gruesome violence and very close permanent death calls, I do miss the fun conversations, the people we've met, and building relationships with each other.

"I missed you guys," I say, half-smiling as I reminisce. "Truly. I know this wasn't an ideal situation for us to get together, but I'm glad it happened." Shadowheart leans her head on my shoulder. It feels nice to be back with such a close friend; I haven't seen her since the reunion camp half a year ago. Before that, it was my wedding day six months prior to that.

"You are the friend who helped me discover who I truly was," she murmurs. "The friend who helped me overcome what I thought I couldn't. Thank you."

"Astarion, my guy! Are you looking forward to leaving this city after so long? I bet it'll be quite the adjustment." Karlach asks. He clears his throat, staring at the bar; it's as if he's desiring a glass of wine.

"Yes, and I missed all of you. It will be a strange yet exciting adjustment. At least there will be familiar faces and I don't have to worry about what alley I'll be hiding at. I miss a nice, cozy bed," he says. "Half the people here still worship Gortash and he's been dead for a year or so. Not exactly a pleasant scenery one wants to be around, especially being one of the ones that killed him."

"God, I still want to punch him in the face."

The rest of the evening contained several laughs, memories, some minor grieving, and wishing our other friends like Halsin and Lae'zel were in on the fun. Thinking about Lae'zel's sass and strong-willed attitude, I begin to miss her more. It's only fair she's finally free from her toxic goddess and enjoying life in the Astral Plane, as she should. I wonder if the githyanki egg we gave her finally hatched? Is she mothering the child, different than most githyanki? I have so many questions I wish could get answered, but I guess that is set for when she comes back to visit eventually. I just hope she's alive and well.

We finally head to our room at Sharess's Caress so we can get some well-needed sleep for tomorrow's adventure back home. We check in for our room and head up the stairs, walking in between several people who are just hanging around, drinking and having fun, and a weird feeling stirs within my stomach. Something tells me that an unwelcome visitor is about to approach us, and I'm usually right about these instincts.

"Are you ready for a comfortable bed and a good night's sleep?" Gale asks, smiling as he opens the door. "Well, hopefully." Before I could answer, we noticed Raphael standing in the middle of our room, as if he had been waiting for us this entire time. It's like he knew we were coming here. His eyes are filled with raging emotion, as if he's after me with a thirsty vengeance. We thought we killed him. We thought he was dead. This just makes everything so much worse. And, of course, this only leads to more questions that I have, but I'll stress myself out even more if I ask them.

Raphael stands there next to our bed in his human form with that evil smirk on his face, giving me a chill down my spine. In his eyes, I can see nothing but vengeance and desire for control, possibly trying to figure out a way to destroy me. I swallow nervously as silence fills the room, wondering what he plans on saying to us.

"Raphael?" I ask, not daring to take another step. He chuckles maniacally, clapping his hands together. What could he possibly want from us other than vengeance?

"Ah, you two. Such a lovely couple despite the fact you both thought you could destroy me, turn me into ash. You thought you could steal from me with no consequences. You're strong, I'll give you that. Determined. Motivated. Though, you lack intelligence thinking you could kill a devil," he says with a deep, raspy voice that could soothe one to sleep. If it weren't for his terrifying words, I definitely would be. "No matter. I'm willing to forgive and forget, should you be willing."

"How…did you come back?" I ask, still in shock he's standing right in front of us. His evil and cruel smile fills me with rage and I want nothing more than to destroy this horrible man right where he stands. Alas, we tried that before and he still came back. If we don't die now, it's guaranteed we will if we try to strike him down again.

"We always come back, dear. I wasn't sure if you knew or not, but I have the Crown. The Crown you thought I couldn't get, the one you wouldn't deliver to me personally. I am The Absolute, or what it wishes it could've been. I own everyone: the damned souls, the other devils who were once above me, and…I own you."

"Cut the crap, Raphael. How did you get the crown?"

"A devil is no different than a goddess, in a way. I talked her with my smooth words into giving it to me. She was squirming with the amount of power, she could not handle how overwhelmed she felt. She clearly did not know how to use it. Then again, she is not about power. She doesn't know how to contain it. That's the problem when all you know is the weave."

"I knew Mystra was insufferable, but I didn't think she was stupid enough to hand it to you!" Gale exclaims, then groans with irritability and frustration. We look at each other, pissed off but horrified at the same time. What does this mean for our future? For our baby?

"Also, congratulations on the new baby. Maybe your child won't cross me once it's born. It would be a shame if…" He pauses, giving us a dirty smirk that makes my skin crawl. "If I took it from you and used it as a thrall."

"You better not, you sick fuck," I growl under my teeth. "Don't even think about it. Man, I liked you more when you weren't such a cocky and self-centered psychopath. Well, you still were, but not nearly as intolerable as you are now, you delusional monster."

"Maybe you shouldn't have invaded my home and stolen from me, you inconsiderate meatsack."

"Childish argument."

"Besides, we needed to save Orpheus," Gale chimes in. "We needed the hammer."

"I would have given it to you in exchange for the crown, you ignorant fools. Either way, I get the crown no matter what, but in this case, you lose. Remember that." Vapor lingers from the vapor of Raphael's disappearance from the room. I can only feel anger and rage within me, trembling from the sight of Raphael in front of me, trembling at his words to antagonize me.

"We can't let him do this," I whisper, a single teardrop sliding down my cheek. "What do we do?"

"We have to make some sort of deal or compromise with him. It's all devils want apparently. You and I both know this unfortunately. The problem is, what kind of deal can we make with him?" Gale is right but I have a feeling what he wants is the one possession I won't part with.

Chapter 9

"Gods be damned, I'm going to bed," I say with frustration. Not at Gale of course, but at the entirety of this situation that's causing an ungodly amount of stress and anger. How on Earth can Raphael possibly vanish? What are we supposed to do? It appears our only option is pleading for forgiveness – and even then, that may not even suffice.

"I'm right there with you." Gale crawls into the comfortable, soft bed with me wrapping his arms around me from behind as a wave of calmness and clarity fills the room; but from what? "I figured the Weave might help perish your anxiety." Every ounce of it begins to fade as the Weave blankets over my body and spirit, eliminating all terrible feelings within me. Gale can also feel the serenity in the room, absorbing every moment of it.

"This…helps," I murmur, noticing the cobalt blue light of magic circulate around the room. I turn to face my darling husband, cuddling up close to his warm body. "While I still feel sick, my anxiety has at least faded."

"Good, that was my goal. You're my whole world. I love you." His soft whispers remind me of threads of silk; thrilling to the soul, and so delicate you don't want to leave. I press my lips against his as we embrace each other within the Weave.

In my dream, I only see pink clouds and astral skies, my spirit dancing within them as I'm being held by Gale. I feel an overwhelming but amazing sensation of ecstasy as I'm floating through the exotic skies, never wanting this moment to end. Is this a dream or is this the Weave's doing? Either way, my body feels free as I flourish through the air without a single care in the world. Alive. Sensational. Free of worries and pain.

The morning sun arises, gleaming through the glass windows of our room. However, it isn't the sun that wakes us up, but Astarion and Karlach, though there's no surprise about that. I finally got a well-rested sleep, my body feeling refreshed and my mind at ease. Astarion knocks on the door, scaring the shit out of me.

"Come on, let's go. Ugh. We don't have all day," he says impatiently.

"I'm so cozy," I tell Gale, finding it a struggle to get out of bed. I curl up against him, hiding my face in his chest for just a brief moment. "I guess it's best though so you can get back to teaching." He smiles at me as he lifts my chin up with his hand, gazing deep into my eyes. Our eyes are like magnets; holding onto each other and refusing to pull away.

"I'm so sorry baby, though you are correct. I just worry about Raphael popping up spontaneously while I'm teaching and…well, who knows what would happen other than a disaster?"

"New fear unlocked." He has a point. It seems we're being spied on once more, and he could come at us at the most inconvenient of times. Last thing we need is having him there while Gale is teaching or while I'm in labor. I wish there was a way to stop him for good.

We all leave Sharess's Caress and stop for food before heading back out on the roads to Waterdeep. A long adventure is heavily anticipated, though I hope it's less terrifying than it was on the way here.

"Well, it was nice being here for a day. Too bad it's not acceptable to scream as loud as I can within the city anymore," Karlach says, followed by a disappointed sigh. We all look at her for a moment, trying to figure out what's going on in that tiefling head of hers.

"Um… Anymore?" Astarion questions, his voice filled with confusion.

"So Gale, I know being a scholarly wizard has been your dream for years now, but now that you're expecting a little one, are you looking forward to it?" Shadowheart asks, shoving a juicy ripe tomato in her mouth. Not something I'd call breakfast, but who is to judge? "Will you teach them the ways of the Weave?"

"Um, maybe when they're a little older, I can teach them the beauty of magic, educating them on the exquisite, boundless streams of the Weave. Ah. To teach my own flesh and blood the ways of magic, and the possibility of them following in my footsteps makes me ecstatic! The thought of a small child vomiting on me isn't quite a pleasant thought, nor is the idea of sleepless nights and changing diapers more or less. It's a tad displeasing."
"Oh come on, why?!" Karlach shouts.

"Because it's gross, that's why."

"Oh, but you can tolerate the Temple of Bhaal?"

"That's a bit of a stretch."

As we make our way past Rivington and lead into what was once known as the Shadow Lands, more and more old Absolute symbols are being spotted on rocks and even on the sides of buildings. Luckily, the lands are being restored and it looks like locals are trying to paint over them.

"The lands that were once full of corrupted shadows blossomed into a new life full of light and new beginnings," Shadowheart says as she admires the scenery. It really is so much brighter and full of life unlike before.

"Just like you, Shadowheart," I tell her, a smile growing upon my face. She smiles back and I notice a small blushing of her cheeks. Ages ago, she would have thrown a sarcastic remark at me and a smirk.

"I could live without these damned symbols everywhere. They must be from when the shadows corrupted the lands," Astarion mumbles. I notice he's walking in the sun with no issues, and he knows it. Is there something he's hiding? How is it that he's walking in the light? Now is not the time to ask, but I plan on it once we get back to Waterdeep. I do wonder why he hasn't brought it up though.

"Unfortunately, Raphael is responsible for the uprising once more. Hopefully it won't last forever," Gale says and sighs with concern.

"Please tell me Waterdeep is serene and not a howling wasteland?"

"Too late to turn back now, Astarion," he teases in response.

I can't seem to shake off the terrifying thoughts of Raphael taking our newborn and using it as thrall for his Hell home. The idea of him torturing our baby, taking away the child's mind of its own and ability to be its own person… A little whimper escapes my mouth as these unsettling thoughts cross my mind. I try to fight off the tears but they are uncontrollable. All heads turn toward me, and it appears everyone is thrown off by my sobbing, especially Gale.

"I have never seen you cry like this before, are you alright?" Astarion asks. Gale takes a step toward me, pulling me close in his arms as I cry. This is the first time anyone in the party has seen me upset – well, except for when I found out I was pregnant.

"What's the matter, my love?" Gale asks, brushing my dark curls out of my face. "You can tell me."

"It's…Raphael. He wants to take our baby and use it as a thrall. I don't know how to stop him."

"WHAT?" Wyll asks, his face shifting to an angry expression. "Emmy, you know damned well we won't let him hurt that baby. We destroyed the elder brain, remember? We can do this. The child will be alright." Wyll's words are more than reassuring and my tears begin to dry up. I take a deep breath, feeling my anxiety loosen up a little. He's right. Though Raphael may be a threat, he's not impossible. Who knows? There may be a way around this situation.

As we venture through the cleansed area full of lively petunias and daffodils, I notice a few graves – which appear to be the ones of the tieflings that lost their lives, including Arabella's parents.

After quite a few hours of just walking through the lands of what used to be corrupted shadows, we decided to build our camp and rest for the night. We eat at the campfire but my exhaustion makes it hard for me to enjoy myself fully with everyone, so I lie in the tent alone for a while until Gale is ready to come to bed. I could tell he's invested in a conversation with Wyll and I love seeing it, but my exhaustion just can't keep up.

After a couple hours, Gale finally comes to accompany me in the tent, curling up to my body.

"Just think, tomorrow we will be back in our own bed. It will be easier for us to just lie there and snuggle all night long," he whispers in my ear, his soft voice giving me goosebumps across my body. "I guess we still need to talk to my mother as well at some point. She will be thrilled about the news!" His facial expression quickly shifts as he notices the exhaustion and inability to sleep. "Oh. I'm so sorry. Are you unable to sleep?" I turn to face him, restless but grateful he's next to me at this very moment; otherwise, my anxiety would be taking a toll.

"I wish I could sleep. I need to think about what Wyll said before, it helped. You being here, though, makes me feel at ease." He places a hand on my belly as he gazes deep into the depths of my eyes.

"I'll never leave you. Ever." I smile lightly, feeling a strong sense of comfort. I begin to think how differently life would be if Gale took the crown. How there's no way we would be where we are now, and who knows if that's good or bad. I look at the late night sky, listening to the crickets chirp and the soft sound of owls hooting.

"Do you ever regret not taking the crown?" Gale stops to think for a moment, contemplating the life we would have if he did ascend to godhood.

"You know what? No. Like, yes, you and I would have immortality and we probably wouldn't have given up the crown as easily as Mystra did. But who is to say I could handle it? Would I still be the same Gale I am now, or would I become someone I don't recognize?" I curl up with my darling husband, smiling as I listen to him talk. I'm grateful he made the choice that was best for him. It's comforting that he realizes now that obtaining the crown would be a terrible idea for everyone involved.

"You'll be such a great father," I whisper, feeling a hint of sleepiness hit me like a train. He smiles, making that cute little chuckle sound he makes all the time, a part of him I absolutely adore.

"I'm truly glad you think so. You'll be a fantastic mother and I look forward to our future." Before I know it, I fall into a deep, heavy slumber in his arms.

Chapter 10

The morning sun arises and it appears Gale isn't by my side as I'm waking up. I am struggling to keep my eyes open as I try to get up, but it seems nearly impossible; I did sleep well, however. Exhaustion has taken a big toll on me, but at least I know why now. After about five minutes, I manage to stand up and notice everyone is up and ready, eating breakfast at the campfire. The scent of eggs, ham, and roasted fruit is hitting my senses rather abruptly, but I enjoy it nonetheless. I notice my nausea has faded, and I seem to be doing okay with my vision. I feel the most normal I've felt in days!

"Ah, there she is!" Wyll says. Him and Karlach are sitting on logs, his arm wrapped around her waist since he's a bit shorter than her and can't wrap it around her shoulder.

"Good morning, sunshine!" Karlach says with much more enthusiasm than I could have in the mornings. I smile, stretching my body as I prepare to sit back down to eat. I could just hug her precious self.

"Man… I'm sorry. Of course I'd be the one to wake up last. I was just so exhausted. I feel much better now of course," I say with a raspy, tired voice.

"You need your rest baby," Gale assures me, kissing the side of my head ever so sweetly. "Do not apologize."

"Say, where's Astarion and Shadowheart?"

"Oh, they took an early start back to Waterdeep. Since we have Wyll and Karlach, we will be alright. I told them to go ahead and wait for us there."

"Wait, so Astarion was out in the sun yesterday and again this morning. What gives? I thought the fucker would burn to a crisp," Karlach says. "The nerve of some people. I want him alive though, of course."

"I was wondering that myself," I responded, wondering what could be causing this sudden cure to his sunlight exposure. Surely not another tadpole and there's no way for him to ascend…or is there? I'm starting to question our lives again and if there's some sort of trickery upon us. Then again, maybe there's just something he's not telling us.

We don't have much longer until we make it back home, and although it's been a short trip, I'm thankful for all the memories I'm reliving with my closest friends. I sit here, wondering what life will be like in several months, how our lives will change forever. Part of me is nervous, while there's a glimmer of excitement held within me.

Off we go, on the path again back to Waterdeep. One can only hope and pray that nothing happens between Raphael and those bloody cultists that I thought we obliviated from existence. I can't help but feel a strange sensation within my stomach, completely unrelated to the pregnancy. It seems to be instinctual. We begin to cross a lovely old bridge that's about to lead us into another region, and I can't help but notice the lively and vibrant colors of the lands that were once filled with death and vile atrocities. You would never guess that is what this place used to be if you look at it.

"Oh man, I hope I get to babysit little baby Dekarios or I might just die," Karlach says. "I've been close to death several times but this would take the cake. I'd wait until they're a little older, though."

"Why wait? You don't want to have to handle the glories of regurgitation upon your flesh? The various odors that come along with infants?" Gale asks. "Come on, Karlach."

"Nah, man. I'm good in that department. I can hold off on that."

"So roughly when the child is five or six then?"

"Now we're talking, sport."

An all-too-familiar feeling becomes a reality and I know exactly what it means now.

"Something's wrong," I say, observing the area around us. "We're being watched." An unsettling growling sound can be heard nearby and it resembles a creature from the Hells we've fought before. Unfortunately, I have the sounds of those creatures memorized. Whatever it is, it seems to be invisible, but the sounds are close enough to be aware it's close to us. By close, I mean a couple feet away, and that makes this entire situation so much worse. Being out of potions and only a cleric, lacking any spells to view any invisible beings.

"Shit. Do any of you have a 'see invisibility' potion or spell?" I ask. "A creature is lurking near us. Little shit is spying." It's unsettling that we're being spied on, more than likely by someone sent by Raphael for whatever reason.

"Hold on – I have Faerie Fire." The spell radiates from Wyll and suddenly the flying demonic creature can be spotted. The flash of the spell startles it, causing it to panic for a brief moment. Its large wings stretch behind its back while it raises its dagger-like claws. The creature stands rather tall, and now I notice it's a Horror, a type of undead that we fought at the Last Light Inn before.

"Well, that's certainly no imp," Wyll comments. The Horror slowly creeps toward me, eyeballing me like I'm sort of a meal to be devoured. Gale, Wyll, and Karlach immediately rush in front of me to keep me protected.

"Stay away from her, I'd rather you get me instead," Gale threatens with a stern voice behind his gritted teeth. His brow is furrowed, like he's flustered and ready to attack this monster. My heart is racing rapidly like nothing I've ever felt before, and what I really want to do is fight this creature back with all the strength I have, but shortly realize I can't. The Horror flies over Gale, trying to snatch me with the gigantic claws, but Wyll's Eldritch Blast pushed the demon several meters away right before it could take grip of me. Karlach then dashes as quickly as she can toward this heinous creature, bashing in its guts with her battle axe. Blood squirts violently from the bowels of the Horror, splatting on Karlach's crimson flesh as she finalizes the gruesome death of this demented beast.

"Whew! By the Gods… At least that's taken care of," Karlach says. "Where the fuck did that come from?!" Gale turns to face me, a look of distraught and worry expressed on his face.

"Are you alright?" he asks me. I nod, but I'm speechless, trying to process what just happened. You'd think I'd be used to this by now, but being pregnant has me on edge and full of fear all the time. I just don't want anything happening to the baby, and Gale clearly doesn't either. While he's always been very attentive and comforting, he's been extra protective and it's brought me a sense of comfort.

"Yes. I wish I could help. I want to do something. I feel useless."

"NO," Karlach, Wyll, and Gale all say simultaneously before I could say anything else.

"We appreciate you wanting to help, but we can't risk it. You aren't in a state where you should fight right now," Gale says, and I hate how right he is. I sigh, but still give a light smile. I won't lie though, the urge to fight has been consuming me lately. I'm sure it will be much more intense once the baby is here.

"That…thing…was trying to take me rather than kill me. Why? What the hells?!" I shout, feeling frustration overwhelm my body. I take a deep breath, trying not to let it take over and stress me out more than I already am.

"Raphael won't stop at anything to have you, all because of the damn orphic hammer and the crown," Gale mentions. "Sometimes I almost wish we never got involved."

"Note to self: don't try to steal tools from someone's house. Got it," Karlach says, jumping around and shaking her hands, as if she's warming up for an intense exercise. Brutal acts of violence seems to get her hyped up for another round I've noticed.

"You helped us steal that hammer."

"You win this round, Gale. Fine. I know not to do it again. Love you guys, though."

The adventure back to Waterdeep surely is a doozy so far, and I only imagine it could get even more intense from here. What other horrors will come across our path? What will Raphael do? We begin to pass the building that was once the House of Healing, which seems to be fully restored to an actual hospital, cleansed of the evil chaos that once lived there. How many survivors affected by Ketheric Thorm are within that building? The Waning Moon has turned into a lively bar and entertainment facility. "Live music, dancing, and Stand up Comedy" the sign says.

"So much has changed," I say, observing the new structure of the area. The entire area is unrecognizable and it's so pleasant to look at. Every crushed and destroyed building and architecture is fully restored to what it looked like before the shadows corrupted, as if nothing happened to them at all.

"Wait, are we even going the right way? I don't remember seeing any of this before," Karlach says. "You know, on our adventure back to Baldur's Gate."

"Yes, honey, we are. We just didn't have time to take it all in before," Wyll assures her, a half-smile on his face as he tries not to laugh. He just adores her so much and it shows. She shrugs and continues to prance her merry way with us along the path.

As we continue walking past the bar, I hear a familiar male voice saying my name in the distance. His voice is deep, with a hint of enthusiasm as he spots me.

"Emmy! Emmy!" The voice is getting closer, and to my very surprise, it's Halsin. The handsome, kindhearted druid Elf that got rid of the Shadow Curse. A true friend of mine who always wanted peace for everyone, an advocate for the children and helpless, and a spirit of nature. Someone who I always aspired to be. We rescued him from the goblin camp, where he was going to slowly be tortured and killed by goblins and their drow leader Minthara. Ever since, we've been great friends. I turn around noticing him approaching us, smiling brightly as he sees us. It's so nice to see another familiar face, I was worried something may have happened to him.

"Halsin? What are you doing here?"

"I was just checking in on the lands. I've been helping regrow the plants and trees in the area." He inhales the fresh air, smiling as he exhales. "My, it's so good to see you. Last time we spoke was at the reunion six months ago."

"Yes, you are correct. Wow. I love how you've helped restore these lands. This place is so beautiful."

"Thank you. I do what I can, when I can. How have you been?"

"You might want to grab some popcorn," Karlach chimes in. That caused Halsin to raise an eyebrow, and he seems to be very invested in what I am about to say. This is still news I'm not used to saying out loud.

"Well… Long story very short, Raphael is after me, I live in Waterdeep with Gale, Shadowheart, and now Astarion… Oh, and Gale and I are having a baby." His jaw drops, but with a smile as he does so. He laughs but in a very excited manner, not to be rude. He appears to be ecstatic.

"Other than the issue with a heinous devil, that's great news! Oh wow. Parenthood is beautiful. I'll have to visit you very soon, and more often for sure. I adopted Arabella, Yenna, and Thaniel. They've been a handful for sure."

"We're only having one. I can't imagine having three. Props to you!" Gale tells him.

"Thank you. It's been quite the journey. Trying to keep three children entertained can be hard, but luckily they all love being outside. I am glad I ran into you all. I'm going to finish getting this place restored, but once I'm finished I'll come visit you all and we can catch up. I'll be there for you if you need it. Congratulations and if you need any help with Raphael, just say the word."

"I appreciate you, Halsin," I say. We hug, more than grateful for his unconditional friendship and compassion, and a huge weight is off my chest knowing he will still be there for us when we need it.

"I never really knew Halsin well," Wyll chimes in, "but he's so kind. I'm glad to see him doing well and getting rid of the evil past of this place."

I take a deep breath, thinking it really may end up being okay in the end after all.

Chapter 11

Gale's Point of View

The glowing orange sun begins to set beautifully, causing an aura of lavender and rose in the sky, and I can tell Emmy has reached the point of overexhaustion. We decided to camp one last time before we make it home tomorrow; we thought we would make it home today. Luckily, we're close and we don't have much longer before we arrive back at our sweet home in Waterdeep. I already miss Tara, our comfortable bed, and the balcony that stands above the bright, glistening ocean with soft waves that sing such a calm song. I'm imagining the reflection of the moonlight upon the water with the love of my life beside me as we admire it. I'm picturing our new child being curled up on my chest as we inhale the air of the salt water. We haven't been away long, but I already miss the romantic and calm aesthetic of our tower that stands above the sea. I've always appreciated it, but after being abducted by the nautiloid, I've learned to appreciate it even more.

Having Emmy in my arms as we rest is the most comforting feeling that I love, and will continue to love for the rest of my life as long as we're both alive. I did not realize how exhausted I was. As I hold her close to me, watching her sleep in my arms, it isn't long until the soft chirps of crickets cause me to pass out and drift into a heavy slumber filled with solace. I'm so tired, my body is practically numb and my eyes are full of tears from the constant yawning.

When morning arises, I open my eyes to see Emmy is not in my arms. She's normally awake much later than I am, so I'm wondering if she just had trouble sleeping. I crawl out of the tent, noticing Karlach and Wyll eating, but no sight of my wife anywhere.

"Have you guys seen Emmy? How long have you been awake?"

"We've been awake for a couple hours now. We both went to snag some food for all of us, but haven't seen her once," Wyll says. "We assumed she was in the tent with you. Not a sight of her since we've been awake."

"Oh my Gods… Do you think Raphael got her?" Karlach murmurs, covering her face with her hands. Fear sinks within me as I come to the realization that's more than likely what happened, since she doesn't appear to be nearby. It's not like her to run off and not come back. My stomach begins to turn as I try not to think about what he could have done with her. Of course he would come when we least expect it and snag her when she's most vulnerable, when she's alone in the forest. He knows she's weak, he knows she can't fight. Devils are always watching.

"More than likely you're correct," I say. "She probably got up to use the bathroom and that's when she was snatched. The opportunity presented itself when she couldn't be protected. Damn it! How do we reach him? I should have felt her get up." It's taking everything in me not to have a manic episode, though it's a challenge seeing as she could possibly be dead. No, Gale. She's alive. She's well. She's pregnant with my baby – our baby – so it worries me that Raphael is getting exactly what he wanted, that maniacal, manipulative bastard. If I know anything about Raphael besides his diabolical tactics, it's that he will hold her hostage and torture her like he did with Hope, a halfling we rescued from his home when we first broke in to steal the orphic hammer. It's a long story, really.

"It looks like we have everything to summon ourselves to his home, but we're missing the metal that goes in the center," Karlach says, searching through her bag. "Son of a nutcracker, nothing!"

"Can't we use a soul coin?" Wyll suggests. "It's made of the same metal as the one we need for the summoning circle."

"You son of a duke, that's why I love you! Well, for other reasons too, of course." Unfortunately, while I'm skilled in the arcane and would consider myself a rather good cook, I cannot draw a summoning circle for the life of me. Invading a devil's home isn't exactly a skill of mine that I hone.

"Could one of you draw a summoning circle and I'll put in the material?" You can hear the hurt and brokenness in my voice, and Karlach and Wyll look at each other with worried eyes. Karlach places her hand on my shoulder, her eyes demanding my attention.

"Of course, Gale. Just so you know, it's going to be alright. Deep breaths, Papa Gale, I'm sure she's okay."

"Thank you, Karlach." As they draw the summoning circle, I begin to dissociate and visualize Emmy's smile on our wedding day, the shine in her eyes as she stares at me with desire, the way her dark, curly hair falls behind her head as I say my vows. I can't forget her cheek bones and the way they plump up as she smiles. The moment I placed my hand on her cheek before kissing her was my favorite moment to ever exist. I think about the moment she told me she was pregnant, how I suddenly got this overwhelming sense of protection. Fear sinks in as well as my protective instincts as Wyll shakes my shoulder gently.

"You ready, NightinGALE?" Wyll says, then immediately regrets his joke. I smile, still filled with worry and a pound of sickness within me as I walk toward the circle. It begins to light up, flames rising up as we're being surrounded by flames, a horrific wave of magic causing our bodies to glow, and before I know it we disintegrate into the realm.

Being stuck in the in-between area of our world and Hell is quite a horrific trip I did not ever want to be in again, but for the sake of my wife and baby's lives, I need to do what I have to do. I hear the deafening screeches of imps, piercing my ear drums as we drown into the Hells. I don't know what lies ahead of us or what our ultimate goal is, but I really hope we can bargain with Raphael, though it seems our chances are rather slim given our past with him.

It's like one giant flash of light, as if my soul is being transferred to the afterlife, my body being completely separated from what's inside of me. Flames are consuming us for a minute, but I finally find myself in the home of Raphael. Luckily, Emmy is right there when we arrive, her body chained to the wall with soul chains. These are the exact same chains that were used to lock up Dame Aylin. Raphael, unfortunately, is also in the same room and it appears he's interrogating her for something – maybe a deal of some sort. I gasp, watching her squirm for her life as the fiendish devil gets up in her face.

"You took EVERYTHING from me," he snarls, his face up against her. His voice is stern and so deep that it's spine-tingling. I can feel my blood boil as he speaks to her with such malice. "So for that, you will be my new 'Hope.' Locked here for centuries, begging for mercy, begging to be set free while your child will be my thrall, feeding off the souls of the unfortunate. It will be a slave, growing up to do my bidding, and then…you will watch as I tear it to shreds. A well-deserved punishment." I wonder what he was speaking to her about before we showed up. Surrounding us are various cambions, staring us down should we make a single move. Though they don't particularly make me nervous, the ill-intentions of Raphael sure give me a wave of stomach-turning anxiety. I can feel my face tighten, several angry emotions swirling within me as I try not to attack this bastard.

"I just didn't want you to have the crown!" she pleads, her voice broken from all the cries. "We needed the orphic hammer, but we couldn't allow you to have the crown. It was in everyone's best interest."

"Oh please, do you think I care about anyone's 'best interest'? No. All I care about is ruling over the Nine Hells and taking control of the devils, making them bow to me like the servants they are. They will have no power over me. Oh, silly girl. Mystra is a fool knowing damn well what she was giving up, who she was giving it to. Your husband worships a false idiot who claims to be all-powerful with magic. He's just as pathetic as she is." He touches her bare stomach with his hands, trickling it up and down with his index claw. I can hear him laugh as he's thinking heavily on his next move.

"Let her GO!" I shout, approaching Raphael but he pushes me back with extreme force. It's as if I lost all control and couldn't contain my anger, which never happens. I fly in the air, feeling my back land on the hard floor beneath me.

"You will not interrupt," he growls, looking back at Emmy. "She will be mine."

"What do you want?" she cries out. "What can I give you to set me free?" Tears are dripping from her face as she struggles within the chains. Her body is weak, tired, and her face shows nothing but despair. It pains me to see her this way and it's taking everything in me not to obliterate this creep.

"Emmy, my love," I whimper, swallowing the words I want to scream at this devil's evil face. I'm holding back screams and the urge to try and kill this fucker for good, but I know it won't do a damned thing.

"NOW you want to bargain with the likes of me?" Raphael laughs, touching her belly with his sharp claw again, causing her to flinch. Her eyes widen as she begins to breathe heavily. I clench my fist and fight my words, but she might have him by a chokehold somehow.

"Raphael, please let her go," I say. "What can we do?"

"Ah, the pathetic wizard who would bow down to the worthless and pitiful goddess that gave the crown to me. One of the people who destroyed me in my own home." His piercing gaze is digging deep into me, but I'm not allowing it to intimidate me at all. "You're all too late for any deals. Nice attempt, however." He continues to trace his claw across her belly, laughing quietly but with a deep tone. He presses his finger deeper into her flesh, causing all of us to panic.

"Please!" Emmy begs, her screams nearly deafening as she pleads for mercy. Karlach and Wyll move up in front of me to face him, ready to fight but I pull them both back with my hands. I can't let them attack him; it seems we're close to being able to make a deal with the man.

"Gale, we need to fight this fucking clown," Karlach says. "He won't stop unless we destroy him again."

"He can't die, remember? Especially as a ruler of the Nine Hells, it will be physically impossible. That will only make this entire situation much worse. Please." Karlach sighs, and she steps back with Wyll, feeling a sense of defeat by the looks of it. "Trust me, I know the feeling." Silence fills the room as Raphael turns around to face me, finally moving his hand away from Emmy's skin.

"Fine. I assume you're not willing to part with your unborn child. So, give me the Orphic hammer back and promise to never set foot in the House of Hope ever again. This is your only warning. Barge in again and your soul will rot in the stench of Hell, with your body. Understand?"

"Yes, deal. Thank you," Emmy says, and he releases her from the soul chains. She takes the Orphic hammer and hands it to him, knowing damn well she has no use for it anyway. "Come on, let's get out of here." I look back at Raphael, noticing an evil expression on his face, as if he's planning something diabolical, though I imagine it doesn't involve us. He will still rule the Hells, but there's nothing we can do. All I can imagine is that he plans on finding Hope again and feeding off her misery once more.I just know it. That's what he's known for – using people and feeding off their misery. We're lucky we got away from him this time, but who knows if he has something nasty planned for the future?

We leave the House of Hope, which apparently is about to not exist in Avernus, and it will be rebuilt in the deeper depths of the Hells. If his plan is to recapture Hope, I feel so sorry for the poor girl. One can only hope that's not part of his plans. We're back on solid grounds, though I can safely say I did not expect us to get away that quickly. Emmy hugs me tight, as if she never wants to let me go. I can't blame her.

"I thought we wouldn't make it in time," I murmur in her ear, feeling a tear leave the corner of my right eye. I almost lost her. I rub her back as she keeps her head placed on my chest.

"I love you Emmy, but damn girl, it's scary how easily you can get away from an archdevil," Karlach adds. "I have a feeling he has something else planned. If only we knew what. Let's just…hope it doesn't involve us." I continue to embrace her, worried about the future of the world, what will happen, and the fear of surviving it all. We barely escaped Raphael's clutches. Something tells me he was going to kill her.

"I'm just glad all I had to do at the time was give up the Orphic hammer, which I'm shocked I even had it on me at all," Emmy says. "I could have sworn I sold it." I often wonder why he didn't just send one of his workers to try and steal the orphic hammer from us to begin with, but I guess he's all about the theatrics.

I'm damn lucky we got away from our encounter with Raphael, but the question remains if it'll happen again. There's no way someone like him would let us off so easily, but maybe he knows he's all-powerful and he already has what he wants. While we are more than ready to make it back to Waterdeep, all of us fear what we may come across again.

Chapter 12

Emmy's Point of View

After our challenges along the way, both to Baldur's Gate and back to Waterdeep, we finally make it back home and unfortunately have to part ways with Wyll and Karlach. I hope they find a way to visit us again soon.

"We have to head back to Avernus, but luckily we won't have to be there much longer," Wyll says. "After our wedding, we will be looking for a home here in Waterdeep. I won't lie, I enjoy the scenery and architecture here. Let us know when your baby shower will be, and we will be sure to make it. Just ring up Withers." I chuckle, sad my friends need to leave but thankful they'll always be around.

"And you guys let us know when the wedding will be. We'd be happy to come," Gale says. "Thank you both. For everything." Hugs are exchanged and just like that, they're both summoned back to the Hells to fight off creatures that wouldn't dare to be seen here on Earth. Gale and I walk back to the tower, our hands holding one another comfortably as we walk into the evening sunset. The soft breeze and salty scent of Waterdeep brings me back a sense of comfort that I missed, even though we were only gone for roughly five days…longer than what we originally planned.

We finally make it back home, and Tara is waiting for us outside the front door. It's as if she knew we were headed back home, or maybe she is just conveniently hanging outside. Either way, she looks thrilled that her favorite humans have made it back safely to live comfortably in her presence.

"By the moon and stars! It felt like ages since you've been home. I was worried sick, you hooligans! Sheesh! So,did you lovely people get the answers you were looking for?" Tara asks, flying around the living area ecstatically.

"Well, answers we weren't exactly expecting, but news nonetheless," Gale says. "I'm just glad it wasn't a fatal disease or something of the sort."

"Let me take a wild guess – you're going to be a daddy! Just make sure I get attention too, once the little person is here. I'm not asking too much, just occasional pets and a bowl of cow's milk every now and then. I'll do everything to help out, though. Except the diaper changes. Those are on you, Gale. Alas, I only have paws."

"Wait, how did you know?"

"Like I said, just a lucky guess." She giggles and flies away into the kitchen. Gale rolls his eyes.

"Oh, for the love of… Tara." I smile, admiring the cozy home we're finally back in, thankful to be alive and safe in the comfort of the tower. I thought I missed adventuring, but turns out I only missed my companions. Oh, and it's a delight to have Tara around; I don't know how Gale did it all those months after the nautiloid crash.

"Well, my love, I am going to the library to write to my mother about the news. Would you like to join me?" I finally hear excitement in his voice about the baby, and I'm sure he's ready to see his mother again. I smile and take his hand, then he proceeds to lead me upstairs.

"I just have a feeling our parents will show up out of the blue," I tease. "Who knows how long they've been wanting grandchildren?"

"Oh, without a doubt!" We make it to the library and I sit next to him at the desk, both of us surrounded by the various books in his magic library. By magic library, I mean all the books are related to the study of magic. As we sit to write, Tara flies back upstairs with us and gets comfortable in my lap. Ah, sweet Tara.

Six months pass. Six months of horrific pregnancy symptoms, the worst one being fatigue. Six months of nesting and getting the house ready. Six months of Tara following me around everywhere to make sure I'm alright while Gale is teaching at Blackstaff. No signs of Raphael or any other devil ready to corrupt the peace that is currently my life. No more bad dreams these past few months, just several relaxing baths a day due to body pains and a constant hunger for fettuccine.

During these months, my mother came to visit, as well as Gale's mother. We enjoyed the company of our families and it's safe to say both sides were thrilled about a new baby being around, especially Gale's mother. Each time she visits, she brings a new gift for the little one. My mother brings us delicious foods grown from her garden and homemade soup.

It's here – the day of my baby shower! Gale's mom showed up yesterday due to a schedule conflict (alright, she may have thought it was yesterday and not today, but we enjoyed seeing her regardless). Every friend except Lae'zel, Jaheira, and Minsc show up to the shower, thrilled to celebrate. Astarion tries to act like he isn't excited, but deep down, he definitely is.

"You know, the old me would have never thought to ask this, but…may I feel your belly?" Shadowheart asks, smiling. "I used to never want kids, but the thought has crossed my mind lately."

"You're like my sister. The maid of honor at my wedding. Someone I love with all my heart. Of course you can touch my belly," I tell her. She places her hand gently on the globe of life, her eyes widening as she feels the baby kick her hand. I smile back at her, admiring her love for my unborn child, and realizing how truly beautiful she is. Happiness looks good on her.

"Thank you. I got to feel…movement. It made me so happy." Gale smiles and gains comfort in knowing we have so many supportive people here around us for the little one.

"Okay, okay, ignore what I said before," Karlach says. "You know, when I said I wanted to wait until the creature was a little older for me to babysit. I could settle for this." Gale gasps sarcastically.

"Are you, Karlach Cliffgate, saying you'd allow us a date night while the baby is still little and not six years old?"

"Maybe I am, Dekarios."

"You can just call me Gale, that's fine too." I chuckle, releasing a sigh of relief as I enjoy the presence of our friends. The celebration, the love, the laughter… I love feeling at peace, though this pregnancy could be a little less intense.

"Don't get too excited or you'll burn the place down. We don't want another 'Mermaids' incident," Astarion says. Gale and I look at Astarion with puzzled expressions, then at Karlach, wondering what on Earth she did and why. I'll be brutally honest though, it doesn't surprise me that she would burn down an entire bar on accident.

"Wait, what happened at Mermaids?" I ask, fighting laughter. "An intoxicated Karlach, perhaps?"

"Well, back when I had that shitty engine, I may have burned the whole place to the ground. Minsc and I were having a competition on who could roar louder, and…I took it too far. The owners had no idea it was me, thank the stars. Astarion, you have nothing to worry about. I can no longer catch on fire, thanks to my new engine."

"Wow, what a delight. Though you know me, I'm always down for some hedonistic debauchery."

We all eat rather delicious food, reminiscing about old adventures and talking about what our futures may hold. Wyll and Karlach will soon be our new neighbors, Shadowheart and Astarion have no plans to leave Waterdeep. I look at those two and wonder if they're secretly together, or if they're more like siblings who happen to be roommates. I try not to stare at them both, but I really want answers here. I have to constantly tell myself to mind my own business.

Gale and I stand up for a toast. While everyone is drinking either a wine or martini, I'm over here with my delicious mocktail that tastes of peaches and a hint of raspberry. I don't miss alcohol honestly; I'll stick with my sweet fruity drinks that will get me 'drunk' just from the sugar alone.

"Thank you all for celebrating with us. You are the best friends I could ever ask for, and our little one will be surrounded by such amazing – uh, people and humanoids," I say, giggling. "He or she will be loved beyond measure, and I'm thankful for such a great group of people."

"On top of that, we appreciate all the gifts for our child. Being first time parents, we weren't exactly sure what all we needed, and we are so thankful for everything you've given us," Gale says, raising his glass. "To our new baby, our friends, and a good life ahead of us."

"Cheers! If either of you need anything at all, please do not hesitate to let me know. I wish you the best for a safe delivery," Halsin adds. If we were to ask anyone about advice on children, it would definitely be Halsin, though I'm not sure if he would have any advice on infants. With him being a three-hundred-fifty year-old elf, I don't doubt that he does.

"Thank you, Halsin."

As all eyes are on me while we give the toast, an overwhelming sensation courses through my body; a feeling of lightheadedness and tickling of the brain. More vertigo, but it appears to be different than what I felt before; something familiar.

Praise the Absolute.

The Absolute will always live.

Die, Die, Die!

Become one of us.

Fuck. Is this some sick joke? Surely I don't have the tadpole in my head still, because what the Hells was that? So many voices are invading my mind, trying to fool me into something wicked. The room begins to spin more rapidly than before, and my surroundings become a blur. Some sort of psychic interference, perhaps?

"Oh, she doesn't look so good," Astarion says. "Emmy?" Gale touches my shoulders, but I can barely feel his hands; it's as if my body is going completely numb.

"Baby? Are you okay?" His voice fades as I begin to collapse on the floor, and all I can hear is a voice in the distance saying "oh shit!"

After several minutes of unconsciousness, I find myself waking up to everyone in my face as I'm lying on the floor. The world isn't spinning but my head hurts like no other. Probably because I collapsed on the wooden floor.

"Oh, thank goodness you're okay," Gale says, taking a deep breath. He looks as if he had just been sobbing. Astarion pats him on the back in a sincere way, to comfort him and rid him of the anxiety. I've never seen him act that way toward Gale before. "I thought…I thought you were dying. What happened?"

"Oh Gale," I murmur, trying to recall what happened. My voice is weak and a little raspy as I try to speak. "I…I don't know what happened. All I remember is that I heard these voices in my head about the Absolute, and then next thing I knew, I collapsed." I swallow, feeling a nasty flair of acid reflux in my throat. "Could it be the– no, surely not."

"The tadpole?" Astarion asks. "How would that be possible?"

"What else could it be?"

"Someone or something messing with your head, perhaps?"

"Do you recall anything happening when Raphael abducted you several months ago?" Wyll questions, a bewildered expression on his face like the others. He brings up a good point."Anything at all?"

"Wait, you got abducted by that heinous devil?!" Shadowheart exclaims. I suddenly remembered she wasn't there when it happened. Her and Astarion had left for Waterdeep before the entire ordeal occurred. Still, I should have told her.

"Yes. I'll tell you more about that later. I'm just now having strange issues, so I doubt it has to do with anything that happened in the House of Hope. I'm alright now at least." I do feel better, besides my unusual craving for ice water. I take a deep breath as Gale helps me up, and luckily I don't have any waves of vertigo now. What a strange occurrence that was. I hope it was just post-trauma dissociation, but who knows anymore.

"Ah, nothing like the potential of becoming a mindflayer…again…when you're about to have a baby. Splendid," Astarion says sarcastically, and then proceeds to look at me with worried eyes.

Despite the spontaneous and unfortunate fainting that left everyone worried, especially my poor Gale, the baby shower ended up turning out wonderfully. The questions still remain: What the fuck happened? Is there a tadpole that I'm somehow not aware of? Do mind flayers still exist?

Chapter 13

As each day passes, strange sensations within the brain continue to haunt me, though they aren't consistent. I wonder if it's just paranoia or trauma, though the feelings are oddly familiar. The baby is due any day now and the excitement and fear of the birth intertwine with one another like a thread. My belly has grown like a weed and it's become very heavy to walk around with, though the feeling is hard to explain in the best way possible. Gale has been teaching at Blackstaff and having to come up with magic assignments for his students, so he's been pretty hard at work. Luckily, he will have a month-long break soon enough, I think in two weeks.

My body aches have been pretty intense, so I've been on bedrest. Luckily, a doctor from Baldur's Gate has been sent here to Waterdeep and has been keeping tabs on me. A new hospital has finally opened up after the high demands (some of them coming from me), and I am excited. I was worried to death I would not have any prenatal or postnatal care, but also that our little one would not have the support he or she needs.

I get up from the bed, feeling every ache and pain throughout my body, and holy mother of the Gods, I just want it to end. I can hardly walk. I need Gale home as soon as possible, because today might be it.

"Take it easy, Emmy," Tara says. "Don't you move around too much if you don't have to." I groan as I try to take a few steps, but I'm so thirsty; I definitely haven't been drinking enough.

"I just need…water…" I'm nearly running out of breath as I try to make my way into the kitchen. A contraction so strong suddenly takes over my body, and I hunch over in pain as my water begins to break. I stare at the floor in sheer panic, my eyes wide in fear. "I need Gale!" My voice carries a strong tone of agony as I beg for him to come home, tears streaming down my eyes as I fall to the floor.

"Oh, oh no! Um, Shadowheart is closer. I'll go grab her and then when she makes it here, I'll grab Gale. Oooh! How exciting but scary. I'll be back quickly!" Tara flies out of the house as quickly as she can; so quick, in fact, I could hardly see her. The pain continues to radiate through my body like nothing I've ever felt before. Could it really be much worse than being shanked by a rogue or whacked with a battle axe? I begin to scream as the pain gets worse, hoping and praying that Gale will be here soon, though who knows how long it could take?

"Sȇlune, please… Guide me, heal me, help me…" The contractions get worse, feeling like intense cramps while being shanked in the stomach. Shadowheart bolts through the door after only about five minutes, which means Tara is on her way to get Gale. Shadowheart notices me on the kitchen floor writhing in pain and begging for help. My eyes are moving side to side, hoping for some sort of interference that can help me. My heart is racing and the world around me spins as I try to stay calm.

"Ssh, I'm here. I'm not quite sure what to do, but let me see. Astarion and Tara went to grab Gale."

"Great news! Um. I don't know how much longer the baby will stay in there… Shar's BONES!" I scream. I'm surprised my shrieks haven't broken any glass.

"I'll need to remove your trousers." I nod, unable to say another word. She removes my pants and I can feel the baby coming, and I'm hoping Gale doesn't miss the birth, though I'm sure he could live without seeing any of this disastrous mess. I continue to search around the room, wondering if I can spot a shadow or reflection of Gale, but nothing so far.

Each minute that passes feels like a lifetime, but after about ten more minutes, my contractions start to die a little and I feel more at ease. I notice the front door swinging open, and here comes Gale flying through the door in panic. He's trying to catch his breath as he rushes to me and holds my head with his strong hand.

"I'm here, I'm here," he says, smiling at me with the same one that caused me to fall in love with him. That smile. He knows damn well his smile keeps me calm. "Shadowheart! Will you grab her pillow off the sofa please?"

"Will do." Shadowheart grabs the red velvet pillow – my favorite pillow that has our wedding date embroidered in it – placing it underneath my head. Somehow, this helps, and I can't explain why. Then again, I don't think anyone wants to willingly lay their head on a wooden floor for long periods of time. "I hope this helps."

"It does. Thank you," I say, trying to catch my breath. The contractions continue again, only this time I feel the baby moving and attempting to make a rapid appearance. Gale's eyes widen and while he has an expression of discomfort, I can see a particular glimmer in his eye; the reflection of our baby making earthside.

"Um, yeah, I'm going to hang outside with the handsome vampire man," Tara says. "Good luck!"

After a solid hour of lying on the floor, our baby finally arrives. Gale brings the baby out, holding a tiny body in his hands. He smiles at our child, completely content as his eyes are glistening with happy tears as he welcomes him – or her – into the world. The little cries can be heard and they're ever-so gentle and the sweetest sign that our little person is alive. We did it.

"Oh…my gosh…" I say, closing my eyes as I feel my body relax. "It's finally over." It's as if my body went from a sharp, piercing pain throughout every crevice of my insides to a feeling of the soft float of a feather, every inch of me ascending into a feeling of numbness and peace. My mind feels relaxed, and my chills are gone. Is it asinine that I want to take a nap now?

"The most adorable…"

"Don't leave us hanging, Gale. Is it a boy or a girl?" Shadowheart asks. I lean my head back from exhaustion and while I'm extremely fatigued, I feel a sense of clarity in my soul as I notice strings of the Weave floating around the room. I feel alive again and so incredible.

"It's a girl," Gale whispers. "Our beautiful girl. Oh, but you know what? We never discussed names."

A baby girl. I never expected to have a daughter, but I'm thrilled. Ecstatic. Joyful. A part of us has entered this world, and I'm so excited to experience every second of her life as she flourishes and becomes her own person. Gale hands her to me, and I stare at her sleeping face as she yawns, her tiny body stretching as I hold her close. As I admire our daughter, Gale kisses the top of my head so delicately and brushes my sweaty hair out of my face. This is probably the most human I've felt in months; sweat dripping, exhaustion, but feeling whole.

"I'll go get a washcloth to wipe her down. Once she's clean, I'll get her dressed. Shadowheart, could you help Emmy to our bed please?" Gale asks. She smiles and nods.

"Of course I will."

It's been a very long, intense morning but I survived it, like I always do. Baby girl has arrived. Despite everything, it was worth it. I finally get to lie in bed now with Gale by my side and our newborn on my chest, soaking in this beautiful moment that I will never get to experience again.

"I love you," Gale says softly. His words bring chills across my body like a sweet song I can't get enough of. I wish I could just press 'repeat.'

"I love you too. So much."

"I'm so thankful for you. If I ascended into Godhood or used the orb to kill myself at the Netherbrain, we wouldn't be in this moment together. We wouldn't have her." As he speaks, I can hear his words shake, as if he's trying to fight tears. As much as he tried, the tears won. I wipe the tear drops falling down his cheeks with my free hand, smiling at this man I call my husband.

"Gale. You always saw my potential. You made me feel good from the very moment we met. Giving up what we have would have killed me. I could never let you die." He leans his head on mine, staring admirably at our daughter.

"I don't deserve you." His warm lips press against the side of my head, which is still sweaty but he doesn't care. It's like he said when we were on our adventures: "I rather enjoy your musk." From that moment, I knew I loved him and everything about him.

"Why don't we name her Jenevelle? You know, Shadowheart's real name?"

"That's perfect. Oh, Shadowheart will cry." At that moment, I hear a small gasp from outside our door, and I just knew she was listening. I smile; without a doubt, she will cry.

It took some major adjusting over a course of a few days, but after about two weeks, both Gale and I seem to be doing just fine and our baby is on a schedule now. I nurse her every two hours, she naps every two hours, and she gets changed every two hours. She doesn't even really wake up in the middle of the night except maybe once or twice. Unfortunately, I have to wake myself up to make sure she's fed and clean.

We're now ready to introduce her to our friends. Today, we have a plan to have our friends come visit and say hi to our new addition. I'm a little nervous about it, simply because no one other than Gale and I have held her yet. I need to quit being selfish over my newborn.

"I give it a few minutes before Karlach shows up," I say. "You know she's been dying to meet her."

"Karlach can be heard from a mile away. I'm sure we'll know before she's even here," Gale says, shaking his head but chuckling. "Oh Karlach." It was at that very moment, we heard her voice and I almost want to believe we summoned her. She always did have great timing.

"I CAN'T WAIT!"

"Can you keep it down, Karlach? We aren't even at the door yet," Astarion says. "Lord knows their child is asleep and gets woken up by an overexcited tiefling." I head for the door and open it before anyone has the chance to knock. Gale is holding Jenevelle, who is staring directly at him with her dark eyes. Her hair is long, thick and very dark, and you can definitely tell she's our child.

"Come on in, everyone," I say, smiling as the group begins to walk inside. They either must have all met up beforehand or they conveniently showed up at the same time. Karlach is so hyped, I'm wondering how she's even able to contain herself. I assume the self-control is at a minimum.

"Oh. My. Gods," Karlach whisper-yells. "Look at that baby." Jenevelle coos, looking toward Karlach as she enters the room. Her bright crimson tiefling skin must be catching her attention. She doesn't look afraid but rather interested in Karlach; it doesn't help that she has the energy of a Golden Retriever.

"It seems she already has a fascination in you," Gale says. "Would you like to hold her?" Karlach turns around with excitement to look at Wyll, who is laughing lightly at her frantic behavior.

"Don't be nervous," he tells her. "I know how excited you've been." Gale gently hands Jenevelle over to Karlach, placing the baby in her arms. Another blessing of not having that old engine is that Karlach will now not light herself on fire when she's excited or angry. Jenevelle looks up at her in admiration, her mouth shaped in a circle as if she's about to say "oooo" as she focuses into her flaming orange eyes. Gale wraps his arm around my waist and pulls me gently toward him as we watch our child and Karlach exchange amused gazes. If parenthood is enjoying your baby being happily entertained by the presence of tieflings, then I'm glad I'm living in this moment. It's been a ride so far.

"So, how is it going as parents? Are you two doing alright?" Halsin asks. "I imagine it's been quite the adjustment, being first time parents and all."

"It's not bad," Gale responds. "I introduced the Weave to the baby and it keeps her soothed. That's been a blessing. We have her on a set schedule now, thank the stars."

"You're doing great. I can tell you are very protective and care so much about your little one. May the challenges stay at a minimum and health flourishes within all of you." Karlach's eyes get wide and she stares directly at both Gale and I, immediately handing Jenevelle back to Gale as she spontaneously yet clumsily makes her way off the couch.

"Here you go, Gale. Fireworks? LET'S GO!" She takes Wyll's hand and off they go, bolting out to our front yard to set off fireworks. I can't help but raise an eyebrow, for the sky isn't even dark yet.

"Karlach, what – Oh…" Gale sighs, looking at our daughter with a crooked smile, then glares playfully at Karlach as she runs outside. "I guess I'm changing her. I'll be back."

"And I'll get the grill started," I say, laughing lightly. "I'll get the next one." I kiss Gale's cheek as I run outside with the others, getting the grill ready for some fresh meat and delicious sides for dinner. We're long overdue for a get-together, and it feels great to be around the people I adore. I just wish Lae'zel were here. Maybe soon. With the tadpoles gone and evil has vanished for the most part, it seems life is full of normalcy and, in Karlach's case, extra excitement since she won't burn places down to a crisp. The question still remains: How is Astarion able to stand out in the sun?

Chapter 14

We all gather outside in the yard, thrilled about the upcoming fireworks we are about to light off, though I imagine no one is quite as excited as Karlach is. The woman could live in Whizbangs. The point of the fireworks? To celebrate our lives, how we made it, and new beginnings for everyone. The sky is flourishing beautifully with an aura of magenta and violet as the sun begins to rest.

Gale finally makes his way outside with Jenevelle in his arms, ready to socialize and get this party started. He smiles at me as he walks in my direction, his brown eyes darkening from the sleeping sun. The sky is getting darker every second, and during those seconds I can sense Karlach about to explode from the intensity of her excitement. Another reason why I'm glad her engine is fully repaired.

"Well, the baby is changed and we're good to go. Now Karlach, try to light them up a few more feet away. I don't want to scare Jenevelle when you set them off," Gale alerts her. She ecstatically dances as she's about to set off her first firework of the night, followed by a chaotic laugh from her enjoyment of the first spark.

"Ah, don't worry pal! I've got you. However, I will say I believe she's going to be a lot like aunty Karlach. The human version of course, in case that wasn't clear."

"You know what? I wouldn't hate that, actually. It would make our days rather exciting." His gaze is toward me, a cheeky smile still glowing on his face. My favorite smile. That very one that made me fall in love with him the first time I saw it. The one he gave me when I was giving birth to Jenevelle. He proceeds to place his lips on my forehead.

"I go back to work tomorrow. Go mingle with our friends while you can and have some fun. I'll hold the baby and will let you know when she gets hungry." Words could never express how much I appreciate this wizard; the love of my life through thick and thin. I kiss Jenevelle on the cheek, noticing her admiring the exquisite outdoor scenery. Living in Waterdeep is the blessing I've always needed, and while I'm away from where I grew up, the feeling of being loved will always be present to me.

I walk up to Shadowheart, who is drinking a glass of wine while mingling with Astarion and Halsin.

"Hey everyone, how's it going?" I ask, a smile growing on my face as I approach my friends. The vibe of close ones mingling under the evening sky while fireworks are being set off in the distance is pleasing to the soul, and part of me wants to relive this night over again.

"Just catching up! Though, Astarion is just hanging around. I can't tell if he's paying attention or just a little too…erm…drunk," Shadowheart says, observing his face to try and comprehend his facial expressions. "I live with the guy, yet I can't fully understand him."

"Uh! Excuse me! I was simply catching up with Halsin." His voice is slurred just slightly, as if he'd consumed too much boar blood. It's good to see him happy and more importantly, healthier than he's ever been since he's been in recovery from the years of trauma and abuse. He smiles, laughs, and socializes more than he did before while on our adventures. It's been pleasant to see.

"If I didn't know any better, I'd say you and Shadowheart are like siblings who need space from one another," I tease. I also wouldn't be surprised if they've been flirting with each other, but I didn't want to say that out loud.

As everyone continues to catch up, the sounds in the surrounding area become muffled, as if someone put a large sack over my head. The world begins to spin as my vision becomes slightly blurred. More vertigo. A sinister yet familiar voice begins to play in the back of my head like an old broken record:

The smell of your blood is desired like the carcass of an animal to a starving wolf.

You will be our servant in the Hells, watching the skin fall off the bodies of those you once knew.

Rotting. Stinking. And you will thirst for more.

The voice sounded like Orin, but I know she's dead. She can't come back, but why am I hearing her voice over and over again? Why can't I get rid of it? It's been months since it happened last, so why is it still stuck with me like a mosquito on human flesh? I blink repeatedly, trying to ignore the haunting voice. Hopefully no one will notice my unusual behavior, if I'm giving off any suspicion that is. I begin to tune back in, the voices and sounds around me are no longer deeply muffled.

"Yep, in fact, my whole living room is covered in duck decor," Halsin says, and I'm now confused on how that entire conversation started.

"Fascinating," Astarion responds with the most sincere of interest. No, really. Ducks. I noticed some of the surviving tieflings from Moonrise made their way, including Rolan, but I was so absorbed into the horrific voice that I didn't realize any additional people had shown up. What the hell is going on with these deep dissociations?

"Hey, you punk ass winners, the barbecue is ready! When the sky finally turns as dark as Zariel's heart, I'M GOING TO TOWN ON THESE FIREWORKS!" It appears Karlach's barbarian shout is still in tact as it was before, though I'm not surprised in any way. At least she knows how to keep me in a lightened spirit, I'll give her that.

"In case anyone didn't know, my wife really likes fireworks. As she should," Wyll says, smiling and shaking his head as he watches her dance from her excitement.

While I thought the annoying vertigo was gone, I was wrong. It continues to hit me like a freight train, my whole body becoming numb, and not in a good way. Could this be Raphael's doing somehow?

"Oh Gods," I mumble, not thinking anyone could hear me. Shadowheart immediately turns to look at me with a concerned expression on her face. Gale somehow manages to hear her from across the yard and heads toward me to stand by my side. I, however, don't want to feel like a burden, especially since weird instances like this seem to only happen when we're having fun. I just want everyone to enjoy each other's company without causing a scene.

"Yes, I'm okay, I promise. Um, just some heartburn," I lie. Luckily, the vertigo fades away again but the sickening feeling continues to linger in my stomach. Whatever this is, I want it to go away. What's funny is that none of these symptoms I'm having had anything to do with me being pregnant back when. They were just merely a coincidence.

"You'd tell us if anything was wrong, right?"

"Yes, I promise." Ouch, it hurts to lie out of my teeth like that. Gale gives me a worried look, and I feel like he knows I'm lying, though he doesn't say anything. I never lie, so something must have given it away.

"Well, let's eat and watch some fireworks, shall we?" he asks, a fake-smile on his face but I can tell he's concerned about me. Damn it, Gale.

"Where's Jene– oh, Karlach again."

"Bingo."

The rest of the evening involved a very blood-drunk Astarion, who had hunted a boar followed by a few glasses of wine, which led to some revealing secrets. Though, who knows how much he has left to confess? He's been talking for over an hour now.

"Well… Probably my last confession for the evening. A lot of you have probably been wondering 'Astarion, how is it that you're able to walk in the sun again?' Well, let's just say I remedied that, my darlings."

"Wait, how?" I ask. "Wouldn't that involve ascension?"

"Ah, there's always a loophole, my dear. I ended up selling my soul to the archdevil Mephistopheles. I'm not too worried because I was damned anyway."

"So, in exchange for you being able to walk in the sun, you sold your soul?"

"Correct! As a vampire, I'm bound to the Hells no matter what, so why not make a deal?" I always wondered if that was true. I remember hearing and reading about legends on how vampires were always damned to Hell, and they were meant to be slaves under the doings of Devils. Astarion pretty much confirmed this was true, and I'm actually happy for him. I wonder how he managed to convince Mephistopheles

"Well, that certainly answered all our questions. Shit, I was wondering about this for weeks!" Karlach exclaims. "Phew!"

While I am exhausted from the consistent mingling and staying up later than usual, I did enjoy all the company coming to visit to not only see us, but our new little one. Gale and I head back inside with Jenevelle, and I immediately plop on the sofa so I can nurse her and get her ready for bed. As I'm doing so, I begin to slowly doze off; at least until Gale comes to sit next to me. I wake up, my eyes feeling heavy as drowsiness courses through my body, particularly my mind. I look down at Jenevelle, who is completely milk drunk and asleep on my chest. I smile, stroking her little chunky cheeks with my thumb as I watch her sleep. I never want to let her go.

"I go back to teaching tomorrow, but luckily only for four hours a day now. While I'm thrilled to indulge in books and research, along with teaching students all about magic, I can't help but think about how much I'll miss you. How I'll miss Jenevelle. These last few weeks have been incredible," he says, his voice in a soft whisper. I can't help but be relieved that his days will be shorter, because I know postpartum depression will hit before too long, and if it does, I'll need someone to help get me through it.

"At least your days will be shorter and it shouldn't be too bad. I believe in you. I'm sure your students miss you like crazy and can't wait to learn from their favorite professor," I say with a sleepy smile. I lean my head on his shoulder, falling asleep again, my eyes begging to stay shut. He shakes my shoulder gently and kisses the side of my head.

"Come on. Let's get you to bed, my love." We walk to our room and Gale takes Jenevelle from me, gets her dressed, and then places her sleepy body in the bassinet next to our bed. She falls asleep almost immediately, ready for a good night's sleep. Gale admires her, watching her sleep peacefully for a moment, and I can just see in his chocolate eyes how much he loves our daughter. After a couple minutes, he proceeds to get undressed and crawls into bed with me. I'm living on a prayer with my exhaustion right now. The lights are dim and we curl up with each other under the thick comforters.

"I meant to ask you, I could see in your eyes earlier that something was bothering you," he says. Oh man, I was hoping he wouldn't bring it up. "I know you said you were fine, but you know I worry."

"I heard the voice again," I say, followed with a sigh. "This time it mentioned the Hells, wanting me to be there as some sort of thrall. If not, then…our child. I'd rather it be me." Gale's warm flesh is pressed against mine, making me feel a lingering sense of comfort.

"It may be your mind playing tricks or another devil that isn't Raphael."

"I wouldn't be surprised if it is him, though. Why would he set me free so easily?" Gale hesitates, just as puzzled as I am on the matter. He may know a little about devils, but not enough to answer my question.

"I'm so sorry. I wish I had the answers to stop all of this and keep you safe." I place my hands on his face and stare deep into his glossy dark brown eyes. Just for a moment, I take it all in as I look passionately within him. Our souls connect on a whole new level.

"You always keep me safe. You do everything you can to keep us protected. I hope I'm able to do the same in return. I used to be this all-powerful war cleric, and I sure as hell hope I can be that again." A light smile curves on his face and he closes his eyes, leaning his head onto mine.

"You still are. This time, you're a mother, and that doesn't make you weak or any less than before." His words soothe me, but in a way I haven't felt before. My eyes slightly tear up as I feel all the deep emotions within me, but in a good way of course. It's like when a butterfly flies around the Earth for the first time. When the world sees a rainbow after a vicious storm.

"I feel so much better after that. Thank you.

The following morning, Gale goes back to the Academy to teach, but luckily he has shorter hours than before. Tara keeps me company while he's away luckily; our baby sleeps a lot. It's been an adjustment having him go back to Blackstaff, but I'm grateful he's doing what he's most passionate about: teaching and providing knowledge to the younger people about the ways of the weave. I am so proud of him. He's overcome so many obstacles, starting at a young age when it all started with Mystra. Life has been full of challenges for him ever since.

"Oh, the veggies and fruits in the garden appear to be growing well!" Tara exclaims, looking out the window. "Maybe we can do some harvesting. I'm sure baby Jenevelle would love to get some sunshine while we tend to the garden." I smile, admiring my newborn who lies so contently in my arms.

"That's a wonderful idea, Tara." I grab the baby-wearing wrap and place her in it, making sure she's all snug as a bug. We walk outside to the yard, feeling the warm embrace of the sun. I get on my knees and begin picking all the ripe, fresh foods from our garden. I'm so thankful we're free from our worries, and enjoying life as we should. After about an hour of gardening, I take the baby inside and prepare myself a delicious lunch, leaving some out for Gale for when he gets home in roughly thirty minutes; I imagine a busy morning leaves him rather hungry at the end of his work day.

After eating lunch, I nurse Jenevelle and notice a strange image in the mirror across from me in the living area, and it looks like a familiar face, though it's a little obscured. I try to ignore the image and just focus on feeding my little person. As I'm feeding her, I hear the front door open and Gale's voice saying, "Hello, I'm home!" He notices me on the couch with Jenevelle just nomming away.

"You made me lunch. Thank you." He kisses the top of my head and looks down at our daughter. "How is Jenevelle?"

"She's wonderful. She helped me garden outside. Well, I wore her. Still, she enjoyed it nonetheless."

"Ah, nothing like the pleasure of the blazing sun on a spring day warming up the flesh. I can imagine why she enjoyed it." Gale finishes up eating his lunch, and then takes the baby from my arms, holding her and admiring her as she gets sleepy. He rocks her gently, staring at her in awe as she begins to fall asleep, not a worry in the world at all. I can't help but smile, thinking of how life good is now, enjoying it with the two I love most. The void that was once in my heart has blossomed into a field of flowers.