(Set a few months after the events of the Main Game, and before Wither's party)
After the life altering adventure with the tadpoles and the Netherbrain, the calm after the storm is almost too quiet. Too peaceful. With Astarion's freedom regained he is left in the shadows, to wonder what's next. Being friends with a man like Tav though, nothing ever stays quiet for long.
An intoxicating scent dazzles his senses, testing the control of his sanguine hunger. A fated meeting with a woman on the run whom he finds himself drawn to. Whoever she is, there is more to her than meets the eye and Astarion plans to find out why.
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For simplicity I call the Dark Urge, "Tav" in this fanfic so that his role in BG3 is clear. I do realize they aren't the same since Durge is actually an origin character that just happened to be customizable 😊 Halsin and a few others are also in this story, I was just unable to list all of them.
If you wish to read the EXPLICIT spicy version of this story, please visit Moth to a Flame - Chapter 1 - Ringo101 - Baldur's Gate (Video Games) [Archive of Our Own]
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After walking past the gates into the city Orianna took a moment to appreciate her new surroundings. She could hear heeled boots clacking on cobblestone streets and vendors calling out to get the attention of possible customers. The welcoming aroma of fresh baked bread wafted through the air, and a more subtle scent of groomed ladies with too much perfume. She almost couldn't believe she was here. After several days and nights of travel she had made it to Baldur's Gate.
Part of her wondered why this had been her chosen destination. Maybe it was a feeling, but the easy answer was that it was far away from her previous home, with an ample amount of opportunity. It was also the first time she had been this close to the sea. If need be, she could find a ship and let the waves carry her somewhere even further. But for now, she felt safer and freer than she had in the last century. One hundred years was a fraction of time for an elf. In actuality, time was downright irrelevant for her. But still, that did not make that timeframe any less excruciating... She shivered as a memory caressed her consciousness.
Orianna clicked her tongue and rubbed the goosebumps from her arms. She didn't want to dwell on any of that right now. She needed to try and savor the small victories, more than that she needed to find compassion to also forgive herself. The choices she had made in her life were already set in stone.
She adjusted her pack and started walking toward what she assumed was one of the more prominent Taverns in the lower city. She glanced up at the sign which read Elfsong Tavern and came in hesitantly. Her uncertainty must have been obvious because the barkeep waved her down soon after.
"Hey there! No need to stand at the door, come in, have a seat." He beckoned her over and she followed his direction, placing her bag and Morningstar between her feet as she took a seat at the bar. "What can I do for you?"
Orianna looked up at the friendly half elf. "I was looking for a place to stay."
"Well, you came to the right place. We have some vacant rooms on the upper floor. You'll get a fair discount, thanks to those bloody Bhaal murders. They happened months ago, but I guess I can't blame folks for still being on edge with everything that's happened."
Orianna stared at him with inquiry, giving him the hint that she didn't know what 'everything' was about. Although, certain parts of the city had looked rough like a great battle had taken place.
"Oh, my apologies for assuming but you're not from around here, are you?"
"What gave me away?" She chuckled. "I came a long distance from the east. It's actually my first time in Baldur's Gate. Could you possibly catch me up with the happenings of this city?"
The barkeep's lips parted slightly in awe. Orianna smiled, no stranger to the gaze of others. She was a high elf who had a humble nature and carried herself with grace. Her hair, though currently tied back, was long and wavy. It shimmered like golden starlight with hues of blonde and platinum. Her eyes were just as lovely, sparkling like topaz gems. In the right light you could see flecks of green that resembled the first budding leaves of spring. Her current attire was a set of heavy chained armor with blue embellishments. Even in these garments you could tell her figure was like a ripe slender pear, lovely hips with a small waist and modest chest.
He cleared his throat and nodded. He told her in detail about the army of the Absolute, Lord Gortash's rise and fall, the cult of Bhaal along with other news. The most shocking being the Netherbrain that tried to bring the city to its knees. He spoke of the heroes that banded together to put a stop to this unimaginable force. The city had cleaned up the rubble and neared the completion of rebuilding which made it all seem like a bad dream. The folk also appeared to have fallen back into comfortable mundane routine.
Orianna felt like she'd been living under a rock. Amazing what one's confines could do to their current knowledge of the world. Her focus had been on things like appeasing her captor and testing her boundaries. During those days she had kept her mind sharp by reading every book in the study, learning music and the arts. Anything to keep her mind occupied and anything he would permit. If you asked any normal prisoner, the ones who had to sleep in the dirt, covered in their own filth, her house arrest would have looked like paradise. A room of her own with a large bed and an ample amount of food and resources. But it was still a cage. No amount of glamour could hide that fact.
...
After a warm meal she was shown to her room which was a cozy space with simple furnishings. There was a bed, a small table with a stool, wardrobe and window looking out into the alley. She thanked the owner and as soon as the door was closed, she practically threw herself on the bed. With a heavy sigh the tension left her body as she lazily removed her armor and let it fall to the floor with a thud. Her fingers laced together in quiet contemplation as she lay on her back.
"Father, I made it..." She murmured, closing her eyes. Finding some work would be first on her list, maybe even a more permanent dwelling other than an Inn. But first, a short rest was in order. Slowing her breathing, she became more mindful of the here and now, not allowing her mind to wander. She focused on the way her stomach rose and fell with each breath, the softness of the duvet on her back and the scent of fresh linens.
Very soon she drifted into a trance.
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A memory played in her mind. But it was distorted and inaccurate, more like a dream or a dramatic reenactment.
She was panting, sprinting with haste like her life depended on it. God's, how had she managed to find an opening? Finally ridden herself of this servitude, these chains which bound her to a world of darkness. Years of planning and deception— it was all on the line at this very moment!
She felt the cushion of the earth under her feet, slipping past trees through the dense forest. No matter how fast she ran it still didn't feel like enough. The sun was beginning to set behind the horizon...
She shuddered as dread washed over her body. A figure casting a shadow upon her as a hand reached for her throat—
"Did you really think you could escape?"
...
Orianna sat up with a gasp. Head whipping around as she steadily remembered where she was. She tried to calm her racing heart and focus on the things around her, like the faint sound of music and laughter coming from downstairs.
"Gods..." She breathed, resting her face in her hands with relief. She wished she could get some rest without reliving all of her buried anxieties.
Getting up from bed she glanced out the window, noticing it was already evening. Reaching for her pack she pulled out her casual wear, hoping she wouldn't need to clasp the armor anytime soon. She wore a high-neck white blouse with bishop sleeves, high waisted espresso brown leather pants and a pair of over-the-knee boots. Fiddling with a lace ribbon she tied it around her neck like a bow. She let her hair down, full and wavy, tucking a lock behind her ear to reveal her silver earrings with tear shaped sapphires. She looked in the mirror, pleased with the ensemble.
Mingling with the locals was not something she had done in a while, but her heart fluttered in anticipation, and it sure didn't disappoint once she arrived downstairs.
The tavern felt cozy in the dimness of braziers and candlelight, giving it a more intimate ambiance than it had that morning. The place was fairly busy but not overwhelmingly so as friends mingled and made merry, clicking their mugs of ale and goblets of wine. There was that warped sound of conversations mingling together and a band in the corner playing an array of Bardic classics. The air also had a heavy aroma of beef stew and vegetables that were freshly prepared for the evening rush.
Seeing the familiar face of the barkeep made her feel a little relieved. She was never quite sure how to manage the awkwardness of coming into a room filled with people she didn't know. The bar seemed like the best bet when you were solo.
"Good evening." She greeted, before taking one of the empty seats. "I realized I forgot to ask your name earlier. I'm Orianna."
The half elf smiled to her as he dried a chalice. "My name's Alan."
"It's a pleasure."
"Would the fair maiden like anything to drink? What's your poison?"
"Any wine you have on offer would suffice."
She hadn't originally planned to have a drink, but what the hell, she could relax once in a while. She put down some coins and Alan got on her request. He served her before being called away to deal with a drunkard who was getting a little too green in the face.
...
A few tables away in the corner sat a sturdy red dragonborn with whisps of teal patterns on his skin that displayed his draconic bloodline. He was a Sorcerer with eyes like bright turquoise flames and wore a sleeveless leather outfit that was a few shades darker than his markings. His long tail swept from side to side as he spoke.
"I know I've said this before, but it still brings me relief that we can spend time together like this. That day we defeated the brain and you disappeared into the shadows— it had this strange finality like I'd never see you again." Tav took another sip of wine, the sentimental words spilling out thanks to the buzz from the alcohol.
A tsk in response. "Nothing a little shade can't fix. It's not like I was shunned by the entire world." Astarion said with the usual drama. "Sure, I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss my time in the sun but at the end of the day, Cazador is dead, the tadpoles are gone and there is no longer a threat of impending doom over my head. Sunlight or not, I plan on enjoying my freedom to the fullest."
He waved his hand with mirth before pressing his fingers on the stem of his wine glass, swishing the contents but never taking a sip. That goblet was merely there for appearances. The drink tasted divine to Tav, but for dear Astarion any consumables tasted like rubbish on his tongue. Had he ascended he might have been able to partake in mortal pleasures again.
"It's good to look at the bright side of things." Tav smiled, showing off his pointed teeth.
Astarion rose a brow. "Was that supposed to be a joke? A play on words? Aha! How on earth did you manage to show up that long running comedian in this establishment?"
"Sheer dumb luck probably. Or maybe my outstanding charisma?" He placed a thumb and finger to his chin, like he was legitimately pondering it.
Astarion narrowed his eyes. A smirk played on his lips as he tilted his chin up in that familiar fashion. "I've heard that silver tongue of yours in action. If I recall correctly, you somehow persuaded an Orthon to kill himself out of a contract. I won't be fooled, darling."
"Heh." Tav clasped his hands together and looked at Astarion intently. This man probably wouldn't admit that he'd also been malleable to Tav's words. "As much as I love casting spells with unyielding ferocity..."
He trailed off, thinking about how much blood he had spilt and the lives he had ended. How deeply he had enjoyed it. There was guilt in his heart, guilt his past self never felt, that he was left to shoulder. After being disowned by Bhaal with death and Withers granting him rebirth, he was a brand-new person. Same Tav with none of the uncontrolled bloodlust. The fact he was able to have his own feelings about anything at all was a miracle. A bittersweet feeling.
He blinked out of his daze and refocused on Astarion. "Pardon me, my mind drifted— as I was saying, there is something to be said about winning a battle of wits. It has its own type of excitement for me."
Astarion knew Tav almost as well as he knew himself. He could see the wheels turning in that head of his. He smiled softly and dropped his voice.
"You know, you've already done more for this city than anyone would have expected. I certainly never saw myself as a hero. But here I was, being dragged around and shown a new perspective by you. I dare say I've become a little more susceptible to doing good things because of you. Whether I approved of your ways or not you have always been there for me, and I will do the same for you. The ones you've killed and the innocence you've saved— I'd say the scales have tipped to an equal measure."
His words made Tav feel at ease and his eyes a little glossy. This vampire had never turned away or shunned him for being a Bhaalspawn. Not once.
As different as they were he had managed to make a genuine friend from all this bloodshed. Even if said friend's morals were kind of ambiguous, they tended to line up when it mattered. He tipped his glass back and emptied the remainder of his wine, hoping Astarion wouldn't notice those words had pulled at his heart strings. Their relationship was purley platonic, but Tav could not deny there was a time in the beggining when he had been tempted by this vampire.
"You can have a drink from me tonight, if you want..." Tav mumbled, trying to get the last few drops of wine.
It was an offer he gave willingly, more often than not. He cared about the happiness and wellbeing of his friend. He also figured it helped remove the stress of Astarion trying to find his next meal.
"How has that been going? There are not many wild boars in the city..."
Astarion's eyes brightened. "Wonderful. You know I greatly appreciate your donations." His fangs managed to peek past his lips when he smiled wide. "Oh, you know, livestock. And maybe a few less thieves and villains roaming the streets at night. With the amount of scum in Baldur's Gate I'll never go hungry." He snatched up Tav's goblet. "I'll get you another. Maybe if you're drunk enough, I might get a buzz myself?"
"I don't plan on getting plastered enough to test that theory." Tav crossed his arms, feigning sobriety.
Astarion walked towards the bar, practically floating over with how quiet and graceful his steps were. A vampire rogue who specialized in thievery was a terrifying combination, an unknowing enemy or mundane lock didn't stand a chance against him. Tav and him were certainly not strapped for cash with how many chests and vaults he'd expertly unlocked during their quests.
He slowed down and paused as he reached the bar, eyes widening with curiosity. There was a familiar but also indistinguishable aroma permeating his senses. He breathed slowly and deeply in order to pick up on the subtle notes. Crisp greenery like a meadow, fresh morning dew, herbaceous lavender fields, lemons and... sunlight?
If he focused hard enough, he could almost taste the memory of sweet fruit and citrus. He couldn't even remember the colour of his own eyes before he was a vampire, but the feeling he had right now was nostalgic in a way he didn't recognize. It was rejuvenating. Intoxicating.
As if on cue he shifted his gaze and his eyes locked with the source of that scent.
...
Orianna was more relaxed than she'd been in a long time, tasting the different layers the wine had to offer. She felt much more at ease now that she had grounded herself in the present. She wondered how long it would take until she felt truly safe. Safe enough to let her guard down and maybe daydream of fond memories instead of torment.
She was about to take another sip until she felt a tingle at the back of her neck. An all too familiar sensation that made her hair stand on end. They couldn't have found her here so soon. Could they?
She swallowed the lump in her throat. Glancing to her right she was met with a set of deep red eyes. She recognized the shade, but these belonged to someone she'd never seen before. His expression looked just as perplexed as hers probably did. No matter how much she wanted to look away she couldn't.
He was beautiful.
A fair skinned elf with fine features and perfectly styled ashen hair with strands that curled cutely around his pointed ears. His lips were soft and framed by handsome smile lines, and his eyes were piercing with great intensity, delving into the confines of her very soul.
Perhaps it was instinctual, but she knew he was dangerous— no, that wasn't the main issue, dangerous people she could deal with. But the closer she looked the clearer the picture became. She had already met her fair share of vampires, those little puncture marks on his lovely neck only solidified her certainty. She brought her eyes back up, noticing they had strayed on his collar a little too long. The fact he was able to walk around freely with all these souls unknowing of his nature was almost unbelievable.
However, under greater observation she could tell there was something different about this one. His presence was not that of a full vampire. She could tell he was a spawn but not like the ones she had come to know. His energy felt calm and unbound, like a puppet with no strings, like he didn't have anywhere to be except exactly where he intended.
Right now, she wanted to kick herself for not fighting her deep intrigue. She wanted to engage this man further. What was the vampire residency like in Baldur's Gate anyways? She would investigate further, making the excuse there was safety in knowledge. His devilish good looks were just a bonus that came with the risk.
...
Astarion was never the type to be at a loss for words. Conversation and witty remarks were his bread and butter! Yet here he was. Caught with temporary brain fog like a tadpole had wriggled back into his skull.
"Looking for a refill?"
He blinked. This darling creature just spoke to him and her voice was like liquid honey. It was the only comparison he could come up with at that moment. Soft and warm. Feminine. No tremble or waver of uncertainty in her voice. It was clear as day.
"For a dear friend of mine. He plans on being thoroughly inebriated by the end of the night."
There he was. His mask and charm had managed to fit back into place. He nodded in Tav's direction who seemed to be tapping his finger to the beat of the music, watching the dancing couples with longing.
"The barkeep seems to have his hands full with an unruly customer..."
She stood on the legs of her stool, reaching over the bar to grab the wine bottle. It was the one Alan had previously poured for her. She placed some coin behind the counter before sitting down and shifting to face Astarion.
"I happen to be staying at this Tavern. He knows where to find me if he's curious where this has gone missing." She smiled and slowly swung the bottle back and forth between her well-manicured fingers.
Astarion smirked. Was she waiting for an invitation? Alright, he would bite— figuratively of course. "Well, to whom do I owe such chivalry in this day and age?"
"Orianna Amberheart."
Astarion was wondering if he'd met his match in the charm department. She practically purred her name when she said it. "Orianna?" He tested the name, offering his hand to her free one. Gently taking hold of hers he brought it up to his lips, managing to catch a more potent whiff of her scent. "It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. My name is Astarion."
He noticed the small pang of guilt in his stomach, his actions and the atmosphere reminding him of his past. All those mortal souls he had tempted at establishments such as this, bringing them back to their doom.
The softness of his hand was distracting and cool to the touch. Orianna could sense his words and movements were dripping with confidence but there was conflict behind his eyes.
Astarion released it all too soon, angling his body to indicate their relocation from the bar. He realized it had been a while since he sat down with someone other than his companions. He was well practiced in the art of manipulation for his own gain or self-preservation, but why welcome this random into his life? It served no greater purpose. Simply put, he had power over his own choices now and this woman tickled his curiosity. It was that simple. No need to make it more complicated than that. Didn't he say he was going to enjoy this life to the fullest?
She followed behind, holding up her glass in greeting when they got to the table. Dragonborns tended to be intimidating in general, this one could probably threaten with a single word and get anything he wanted. So, it surprised her when he spoke, his voice was casual with an intellectual air, but she could hear the faint giddiness that proved his intoxication.
"I thought you were just getting me a drink but instead you brought over a work of art." His turquoise eyes sparkled, resting on Orianna before glancing at the large bottle and back to Astarion. "You know I'm a light weight..." He grumbled.
"I wouldn't dare let you drink alone." He waved his hand, presenting the fair maiden. "This is Orianna, she's willing to join us for the remainder of the evening." He sat down beside her after she picked the spot across from Tav. "This is Tav, whom I've shared more life-or-death experiences than I can count."
"But did we die? A few close calls, yes, but I never doubted our victory for a second! If our chances were unfavorable, I would turn the tides without fail." Tav lifted his chin with pride.
"Are all sorcerers as sure of themselves as you are?"
It was a surprise that Gale and Tav were able to get along at all with their snippy remarks about study vs innate ability.
Orianna popped off the cork and poured Tav another glass, followed by her own. Unsurprisingly Astarion's was still full, but she didn't comment.
"To have accomplished victory in times of despair, you must be a talented group of adventurers."
Tav smiled to himself as he thought about the past. "We were such an unlikely group who didn't meet under the best circumstances. We had such different backgrounds and clashing opinions. But somehow we persevered and became friends." He took a sip from his goblet, eyes widening. "Ooh, this one is much better than the last. Very full bodied and refined. The barkeep must be holding out on us." He sipped again, giving Orianna a knowing look.
She placed her fingers to her mouth to hide the grin. It seemed Alan had treated her to something from the reserve. "I don't drink much in my past time so I'm not sure I could tell the difference."
"Ah! Well here, try some of Astarion's and see what you think. I wouldn't call myself a connoisseur, but I've taken a hobby to wine tasting recently." He was about to slide the glass over to her, but Astarion beat him to it.
His fingers were long and slender, causing Orianna to imagine how beautiful they would look dancing along piano keys or plucking the strings of a lyre, or even holding a blade against the jugular of an enemy.
"So, where are you from Orianna? I would certainly remember a face like yours."
She registered that she should have prepared for these types of questions. They were simple ones, but she wasn't sure how indistinct or detailed she should be. She gave herself time to think about it by sipping the wine first. It was sharp, a little more bitter and dry on the back of her tongue than the other. It had less depth and sweetness too, but it was still tasty.
"I'm originally from Cormyr. I was a vagabond for a while. Only recently did I make my way to the Sword Coast."
Astarion could tell she was being vague but wasn't the least bit offended by it. It was the natural course of action among new acquaintances to be guarded. The thing that was bothering him was her scent. It was like an invisible force coaxing him to come closer. He had developed perfect control over his sanguine hunger over the centuries, but he couldn't help but imagine what her blood tasted like. How vexing it was that he had promised Tav not to feed off the innocent. This woman was testing his limits.
While Astarion was having his own mental battle so was Orianna. Should I tell them? She thought to herself.
Finding allies or even a sword for hire would be in her best interest. These two appeared strong and capable, and even though she had just met them they seemed trustworthy enough. In fact, Tav resembled the description of the dragonborn Alan had mentioned. A red dragonborn sorcerer who stood up against The Absolute and the Netherbrain, backed with a fiery resolve and talented allies. Astarion was obviously one of those allies but a vampire spawn walking around with free will? Not to mention helping with the fight of good against evil. It was unheard of. Sure, she was a capable cleric, a few hunters she could manage on her own. But what if she couldn't? The odds were slim but what if Dragomir came himself? She clasped her hands together hard enough for her knuckles to turn white. Her chest felt tight from the anxiety.
"If I'm being honest, I'm sort of... on the run."
Now this was unexpected. Her guard had been up but something in her mind had found resolve. He could see the fear in her body language, and it made Astarion all the more curious as he and Tav nodded, encouraging her to continue. It wouldn't have been the first time they had lent an ear to someone in need. Tav practically listened to every soul they ran into. Good or evil, rich or poor. Tav had always insisted on hearing them out. Any conversation was a chance to possibly gain more knowledge, coin or loot. Sometimes even an ally.
"I'm not a fugitive or anything like that though."
"Even if you were, I tend not to judge anyone right away." Tav pointed a thumb at Astarion. "The first time I met him he held a knife to my throat."
"Self-preservation." Astarion pointed out. "And I wasn't going to kill him, I just wanted to have the upper hand in case things went south."
"Anyways," Tav continued, leaning forward towards Orianna. "I'm sort of on the road to redemption. Helping someone in need like yourself seems like a good place to start. But I'll need more information. I won't force you to tell me anything that makes you uncomfortable. General things like who might be after you would be helpful though."
Tav's voice was very calming and persuasive. Almost too persuasive. She fought the impulse to just spill everything right then and there.
"He's a Lord from the east. Someone very powerful and influential."
"It's alright, Orianna. I'm thankful you told me." He knew she was holding back, but that was good enough for now.
His words made her feel lighter. Like she wasn't completely alone anymore. "Thank you. I like to think I'm just being paranoid, and nothing will come of it, but I know this man. He had no intention of ever letting me go." She swallowed. "With my escape I've condemned his servants to death..." She played with the button on her cuff. "They were on duty to watch me that day..."
Astarion processed her words. Judging by the guilt in her voice she was the sentimental type. One who would find compassion for even the darkest of souls. Whoever this man was, he had pushed her to her limits.
A powerful and influential figure, hm? He contemplated who it could have been and for what reason he would want her so badly. On the outside she looked ordinary. Not ordinary in the literal sense. She was obviously gorgeous, charming and likely versed in many talents, but he wasn't sure what her secret was. What made this elf so special that this man would dedicate his time and resources to her retrieval? This little glimpse into her life also reminded him of his own.
Goblet in hand, Orianna took the longest sip she had all night. The contents disappeared past plush pink lips until none remained.
There was a stain of burgundy that Astarion was tempted to wipe away, but she licked it clean before he could ponder the thought.
"You will both be rewarded. I promise." She said in earnest.
Astarion waved his hand in dismissal. "Now now. I doubt you're in any position to pay for our first-class services. Besides, until there's the possibility of a battle, I wouldn't dream of emptying a maiden's purse~."
He could see Tav raise a brow at him from his peripheral. Being a nice guy just because? That was out of character for Astarion and Tav knew that better than anyone. Unless he had ulterior motives.
"Plus, pretty damned sure Tav said I'm on the road to redemption." He made the best mocking impression of Tav he could muster. "Sounds like an offer of good will to me."
Tav cleared his throat. "Well, not to brag about our finances but we are doing pretty swell. So yes, I was planning to help out of the goodness of my heart. If anything, I'll be looting the bodies of any brave enough to show up. We haven't had much excitement for the last few months, so I could use a challenge."
"You both sound so close. Do you live together?" she asked curiously. They spoke about money like it was communal.
"We've been living at this Inn for months now. Astarion has been redecorating his home to suit his tastes."
For now, he would keep out the part about it belonging to Astarion's late vampire sire. The palace was grand and unoccupied. It seemed like a waste to let it collect dust. There was no denying that it had terrible things associated with it. The place needed to be stripped down to its bones and rebuilt in a way that Astarion felt was his. A home he could begin to create pleasant memories and replace the old ones. A life of torment would need to be washed away little by little. He was free but he still needed time to heal.
"I guess that means we are neighbors." Orianna brightened.
Oh dear, this beautiful siren in the room beside him? He had a suspicion he would find himself listening to every shift and creak of the bed when she rested... What did she wear during the night? A simple white gown? Tantalizing underwear? Perhaps nothing at all? He was brought back to reality when Tav spoke.
"I feel like this works in our favour. At night when your guard is down would be the most likely time for an adversary to strike. Especially if they don't want to cause too much of a commotion." He drank some more wine with optimism. "Unfortunately for them, I love making an explosive entry!"
"Just make sure I'm not caught in blast radius!" Astarion interjected, but there was humor in his voice. "This pyromaniac doesn't know how to hold back. He'll have barbecued the poor soul before they even knew what killed them." Shaking his head, he went on with exuberance. "I barely get a chance to use the lovely daggers I've collected during our time together. Here I am, hiding in the corner with a crossbow— terrified of being fire-balled by my own companion~."
"Don't sell yourself short. Your kills may not be as flashy as mine, but you are precise. One shot or stab and they crumble to the ground! I do admit it though... I have no idea where you are half the time." Tav smiled sheepishly.
"And the truth has been revealed. Just mind your step around this one, my dear." He said to Orianna. "Which makes me curious, what can I expect from you?"
Excitement. That's what she felt right now. She wanted to see these two in action with her there supporting them. "I'm a cleric of Pelor."
Ah yes, Pelor. Who didn't know that name? God of the sun, agriculture, healing and all-around goodness. Not to mention hating the undead. Given her radiance and kind heart the class suited her very well. They were opposites to each other but that didn't mean anything. He had made allies with a githyanki for heaven's sake.
"Nice to know I won't be required to chug anymore healing potions or have Tav accidently throw a bottle of poison at me."
"That was one time..." Tav facepalmed. That damned bottle he picked up had looked like a healing potion but turned out to be the exact opposite.
"I will have your back. You can count on it." Orianna affirmed. She felt elated from this development. Okay so maybe a bit was from the alcohol, but it was all new to her. It had been ages since she drank in a Tavern and met new acquaintances.
Her ears twitched when she heard the music start to shift to another song. Her foot tapped and she could no longer sit still as new energy flowed through her. "Oh, I know this one!" She stood up suddenly and Astarions eyes widened when she offered her hand between Tav and him. "One of you will join me, won't you?"
Astarion contemplated for a second too long as his friend with drunken confidence stood up and clasped her hand in his. "Onward my lady!"
Heh. Amazing what liquid courage can do. Astarion watched a little enviously as Tav took Orianna and sauntered away to the section of open space reserved for dancing. He rested his chin on his knuckles as he watched.
Once they were in position Tav separated from Orianna a few feet and bowed deeply. She followed suit, giving him a curtsy. The angle gave Astarion a much better view of those perfectly curved hips. They rejoined hands and began to skip to the beat. The song was fast paced, Astarion couldn't help chuckle as Tav tried to match up with her tempo with his two left feet. Eventually he figured out the steps and the two of them were a beautiful but unlikely pair. His tall stature and muscled scaley figure made her look fragile.
She rested her hand on his left shoulder when his clawed fingers went to her waist, lifting her in time with the music effortlessly. She was light on her feet and graceful, every movement having purpose. Her hair flowed like water when they spun in circles and her smile was contagious.
Astarion wondered how old she was given her youthful appearance. It was difficult to tell with elves, but she had a maturity about her that made him believe she was either the same age or older than him, even with his vampire years. He could hardly believe how mesmerized he had been as the song reached its climax and came to a close. The two of them stumbled back over with glee. Well actually, Tav was stumbling.
"My lack of physical prowess is starting to show..." He laughed, dropping back into his seat with a huff as he reached for his chalice.
"Oh, come now you can't be tired already?" There was a twinkle in her eyes. She was practically glowing.
Luckily for Tav, Astarion had no problem taking one for the team in this type of situation. He stood and slowly stepped to her side. "If you need a new dance partner I will happily oblige."
Orianna looked up at Astarion. She wasn't sure if her heart was racing from the dancing or because of him. She took his hand without a word and followed.
The music had eased to a more relaxed, intimate pace. They stood side by side, opposite each other. With their hands pressed together they circled slowly, changing hands and direction in unity after a one-eighty turn. She hoped her palms were not clammy from nerves. All she could hear was the music and her heart pounding in her ears. Any other sound drifted away into the background. She turned to him and raised her arm.
Astarion mirrored her with relaxed confidence. Their fingers laced together above their heads as they stepped carefully to the tune. He then spun her away from him and pulled her back. This time bringing her closer than before. Normally this style of dance would have been less handsy, but he couldn't resist the urge as he supported her and bent her backwards. Her chin naturally tilted up, putting her neck on display for him which sent a ripple of desire in his lower stomach. How he wanted to rip away the annoying fabric covering her neck, to press his lips to her throat and breathe deeply, smelling her scent and imagining what she might taste like. He didn't realize he was holding his breath until he wrapped an arm around her waist and brought her back to his level, her arm following the movement to hook around his neck. He took the opportunity to show he was stronger than he looked, lifting her off her feet and feeling her full weight in his arms. He could sense Orianna's excitement as her scent thickened.
They were temptingly close together now as he placed her back down. If she stared into his eyes hard enough, she could see her own reflection in them. She subconsciously licked her lips and saw Astarion's eyes dart down to them for a split second before meeting back with hers.
"You are quite the vision." His voice was quiet. For her ears only.
She gave him a sly grin. "I've been told."
Cheeky. He smirked and placed his right hand to her neck, barely caressing her jaw. His finger stroked past her ear which caught her off guard, causing her to look surprised and bashful, a twinge of pink dusting her cheeks. The reaction made him want to tease her more. He brushed his fingers through her hair, tossing it past her shoulder before bringing them down to the small of her back.
They continued to sway to the music as he spoke. "Why is this man after you?" His question was sudden but not demanding.
She wasn't sure how to reply. Being slightly intoxicated and having this dazzling vampire spawn pressed against her... She wished they could talk about something else. "My existence is priceless to him."
"You give me an asnwer but it only creates more questions." He purred. "You're mysterious. I desire to know why."
"Hm. I might tell you my secrets if you admit to your own."
The way she said that made him nervous, like she already knew. They had stopped dancing all together, still close but with a heavy moment of silence. "I'm not sure I have any secrets to tell you, my dear."
It was fair that he wouldn't tell her, if she were in his shoes, she would likely do the same. She then reached her hand to his collar, adjusting it for him before her fingers smoothed over the punctures on his neck.
"Enjoy the rest of your evening, Astarion."
Her voice was a whisper. A soft breeze that made his spine tingle. Suddenly she moved away completely and left, saying a good night to Tav before disappearing upstairs. His arms felt cold after her body had been so warm and soft against his. Now he stood there alone, dumbfounded.
What the fuck just happened?
He shuffled back to Tav and took a second before he spoke. "I have a dreadful suspicion that she knows..."
Tav looked at him sleepily. It was starting to get late and honestly; booze always made him tired. "Knows what exactly?"
"About me— what I am." His voice sounded agitated.
It was never in a vampire's best interest for people to know what they were. Tav and his companions had been an exception given the circumstances, but usually it would be a mob with torches and pitch forks.
"Are you sure? She looked pretty cozy with you." Tav said with a suggestive tone.
"I'm sure she knows something." Astarion bit down on his thumb nail. "But what gave me away?"
Tav looked at him sarcastically. "Listen. When we met you were simply an eccentric elf who stood in the sun like the rest of us. But after finding out what you were everything clicked into place. Seeing your siblings and Cazador too, well... it's just obvious!" He exclaimed. "I feel like an idiot for not recognizing it until I was a snack."
Astarion rested a palm to his face. He hoped she was trustworthy enough to not spill this information. Even if she knew he was a vampire why had she been so comfortable with him in the first place? Based off of Tav's reasoning perhaps she'd already crossed paths with a few of his kind. That would explain some of it, but it was still an abnormal reaction. However, Orianna was certainly uncommon in a way he couldn't put his finger on...
"I'm going to bed. Meet me in my room?" Tav asked, standing a little wobbly.
"Honestly, it wouldn't feel right. I can already tell you're going to have a massive hangover tomorrow. No need to add blood loss to the mix."
Tav smiled, starting to leave but then turned to say one last thing.
"Happy hunting."
...
Orianna had her arms propped on the windowsill with her face in her hands. The fresh air was helping her regain some composure. What on earth was she doing? She wanted to blame the wine, but she wasn't even that drunk. Maybe she just had terrible taste in men, specifically the undead type who liked to nibble on mortals. Her father would have been disappointed.
Vampires weren't exactly the best bachelors and the one she knew best was evil and egotistic. He did not love. He only knew how to possess and coax with sweet words that were disguised as pure manipulation, like a conniving Devil. What if she was taking a similar path and making the same mistakes with Astarion? She hoped that wasn't the case.
She was about to close the window but paused as she saw a familiar head of hair in the alley, ghosting along until he disappeared into the darkness.
...
...
...
Thank you for taking the time to read my fanfic 3
Somehow, I've played over 300 hours of BG3. Two completed playthroughs with ascended and non-ascended Astarion romance, one as the Dark Urge and the other as a regular custom character (not to mention my other campaigns). Our favorite vampire might be a bit OOC sometimes, but I think I got too used to the late game where he is super sweet with you. This writing is purely for fun, and I make no claims to being a spectacular writer. The game was amazing and inspired me to try this hobby again. It's probably been over ten years since my last attempt.