"Hello darling." he spoke in a soft voice.
"Hello you." she smiled back. "How long have you been watching me? How long have I slept?"
"Not long enough." he smiled. "It's past noon already. We slept an entire day."
She rose from the bed invigorated and ready to face the day's new challenges, urging to the window to pull the curtains then suddenly stopped. "I'm sorry. An old habit." She paused, hand still on the curtain, realizing the implications for Astarion.
Astarion lowered his eyes for a moment, then turned to Talin with a rare vulnerability. "You know I was just thinking, we never discussed what happens after. We dealt with the Brain, and we're free of the tadpole. I'm free from Cazador, but I belong to the shadows once again." his voice carried a somber note as he addressed the grim reality of his condition. "The darkness held me for a long time, but with you, the future feels exciting, even if uncertain. Is a future for us possible, Talin?"
As she turned back from the window, she reached out to take his hand, her voice soft and encouraging, "It's uncertain for both of us, Astarion. But isn't that the beauty of it? Discovering the journey as we go, not because we must, or we're told to, but because we choose to... together."
"Together. That does sound promising. We do make a rather good team, and we've had so much fun. But, is this what you truly want? You do understand the burdens of my affliction?" His words hinted at the challenges they would inevitably face together. "I'd completely understand if you wanted to go your own way. I can't ask you to remain in the shadows alongside me."
Talin took a moment, her gaze steady on him, sensing the weight of his words. With a calm certainty, she replied, "Astarion, I want to stay with you and see where this path leads us. I know it won't be easy, and I'm scared too. Scared that you might not be ready for this, or that you might not want the same things I do. But I believe that together, we can face whatever comes our way." She squeezed his hand gently, her gaze unwavering. "I'm not asking for promises or guarantees. Just that we take this journey one step at a time. I want to be with you, not just for the adventures or the fun, but because I care about you deeply. Perhaps," a hint of a hopeful smile graced her lips, "we can learn to navigate this darkness, side by side."
Astarion's eyes softened, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Then together it is. We'll face the shadows and the unknown, but at least we'll do it hand in hand. And we're going to have so much fun."
A wave of relief and exhilaration crashed over Talin. Unlike any elf her age, she had a heart untouched by true love. Admirers flocked to her beauty, blind to the depths within. Others, mere political pawns, sought alliances, not affection. But with Astarion... it felt different. For the first time, she felt a genuine connection that went beyond superficial attraction or political convenience, a sense of belonging and hope, and it was all because of the man standing beside her, ready to face the unknown together.
With unwavering determination she added, "And we'll find a way for you to walk in the sun again." Her commitment to his cause was palpable, strengthening the bond that had grown between them. "Until then," she smiled, "let's make sure the night remains as welcoming as the day for you. We'll find joy in the moonlight and stars."
Astarion looked at her, a flicker of hope igniting in his eyes, mingled with surprise. "You... you really think it's possible to get rid of this affliction?" he asked, the idea seeming almost too good to envision.
"After all we've been through? And everything we witnessed? There has to be a way!" She replied with a gentle chuckle, "Faerûn is a vast place, full of secrets waiting to be discovered."
"Maybe, there is a way." Astarion conceded. "And if there is, no matter how small, I want to take it with you. This means another adventure awaits, a chance to explore together once more."
Talin's smile was warm and reassuring as she stepped closer and wrapped her arms around him in a comforting embrace.
"Oh, and—I'm keeping Scratch." she said with a mischievous grin tilting her head towards the snoozing dog.
Astarion raised an eyebrow, his tone mock-serious "Wait, that fleabag? Are you serious?"
"Absolutely. We've become quite the team. Besides, I think he's grown on you more than you'd like to admit." she replied laughing.
He sighed theatrically, but a small smile betrays his fondness, "Perhaps. The beast does have a certain... charm, in a scruffy, slobbery sort of way."
Their conversation, filled with the quiet intimacy of a shared future, marked a beginning rather than an end. As they went on to greet the day, the promise of their continued journey together seemed to brighten the world around them, despite the shadows that lingered.
"There you are, come on, join us! Let us have one last meal together." Halsin called out as Talin entered the room.
The party was gathered around the table, savoring the final moments of their journey together. She and Astarion took their seats, the familiar camaraderie of the now smaller group enveloping them as they joined in the meal. Tranquil beams of the late afternoon sun streamed through the windows of the Elfsong Tavern, weaving a tapestry of golden light around the tables.
As the gathering was coming to an end, Gale suddenly stood, drawing the attention of his companions with a solemn expression. He rose, his expression serious. "My friends. The time for my return to Waterdeep has arrived," he announced. "Regrettably, this seems to be the point of our parting."
A shadow of sadness crossed Talin's face. "Wait, you're not staying? But I wanted you to meet my family. Oh, Gale." she murmured, her voice laced with disappointment.
"I'd love to meet them, Talin, but I'm afraid I must depart now. I need to send word to my mother soon."
"Perhaps one day our paths will cross again in Waterdeep, and we can finally meet her." She tried to lighten the mood. "I wouldn't mind sampling that famous Hundur sauce of hers. See who truly makes it better."
Shadowheart chuckled, "Poor woman, she has no idea how famous she is around here."
Talin's smile deepened, a touch of nostalgia creeping in. "Ah," she sighed, "I'll definitely miss your incredible cooking, especially your signature Moonlight Harvest Bowl" she said as she took his hands into hers. "Every dish prepared with such care. Even at home they didn't spoil me that much."
During their travels Talin learned to appreciate not just Gale's vast knowledge and eloquence, but also his wit and the care he took in preparing vegetarian dishes just for her during their travels so she could eat well just like the others. Gale's thoughtful gestures, like always having a special dish ready for Talin, always delighted to speak to her for hours, did not go unnoticed and were a testament to his kindness and good intentions.
"How I loathed your pretentious over-explaining about arcane matters," she recalled as her lips curved in a soft smile, "and now I can't imagine my day without your wisdom. I'll always treasure those moments."
Astarion jumped in with a grin, "I can cook for you, darling, don't you worry."
Talin raised an eyebrow, amusement battling with skepticism. "But Astarion," she countered gently, "You don't exactly have a… reputation for culinary expertise."
"Well, how hard can it be? Maybe I'll do it even better than Gale," Astarion retorted confidently.
Talin's laugh was tinged with nervousness. "Oh, well…" she stammered, "I'm sure you could, but your usual diet leans a little… towards the raw side, and you know I prefer something… greener."
Astarion's smile widened, taking on a playful edge. "Nothing but the freshest greens for my love, then," he declared with a wink.
Talin turned to Gale, her expression one of mock horror, as if silently pleading for help.
Gale, catching her look, couldn't help but laugh. "Before I take my leave, Talin, let me share a bit of arcane wisdom. I'll teach you how to conjure a portal that leads directly to my tower in Waterdeep. It's quite handy, though I do request a bit of forewarning before you pop in," he joked, his finger raised, giving her a playful wink.
Talin nodded, her spirits lifting with the lightness of Gale's tone. They moved to a quieter corner of the room, where Gale took a moment to instruct her on the intricate gestures and specific incantations needed to open a portal. The air around them seemed to buzz with the potential of magic as he spoke, his hands moving through the motions with practiced ease.
As they walked through the steps, laughter and playful banter flowed around them. Despite the levity, there was a palpable undercurrent of sadness — a bittersweet tinge to their laughter, a reluctance in their smiles. Yet, Gale's last lesson provided not just a magical technique, but a promise of an easy reunion.
With a final practice run of the spell and an encouraging nod from Gale, Talin felt a renewed sense of connection to her friend. "Thanks, Gale. I'll definitely call ahead," she promised, her voice carrying a mix of gratitude and mischief.
As Gale's lesson concluded, the group gathered around, their faces a mix of cheer and melancholy. The moment had come for goodbyes, and though they tried to keep the atmosphere light, the air was thick with unspoken emotion.
Shadowheart approached, offering Gale a small, rare smile "Take care, Gale. Your guidance has been more valuable than you know," she spoke softly, "and try not to forget us little people when you're back amidst your books and scrolls, and… potions."
Gale chuckled, giving Shadowheart a knowing look. "I doubt I could ever forget such a formidable company."
"Well, I guess this is a goodbye wizard. Try not to die, we'd hate to lose a perfectly good Gale," Astarion said with his usual smirk, "and um, we'll miss you."
Gale chuckled, adjusting his robes with a flourish. "Fear not, Astarion. I have no intention of departing this world anytime soon. There are still too many mysteries to uncover, spells to master, and, of course, pies to bake. Stay safe, my friend."
"Look after them, Talin. And remember, the weave connects us all. You all have a home in Waterdeep whenever you need."
"I will miss you, Gale. Safe travels, and do not forget me!"
With final handshakes, hugs, and a few laughs to ease the sting of departure, Gale stepped back, his hands resting on the components of the portal spell. With a confident nod and a deep breath, he activated the spell. A swirl of magical energy and light enveloped him, and with a last wave and a broad smile, he vanished, leaving behind a faint shimmer in the air.
The group stood in silence for a moment, watching the space where Gale had been, each lost in their thoughts. It was Talin who broke the silence, her voice steady but soft.
"He's right. The weave does connect us—in more ways than one. Let's head back home, everyone. We have our own paths to tread, but we'll keep the way back to each other open."
Nodding in agreement, the rest of the group started saying their farewells, their spirits lifted by the assurance of enduring friendship and the journey that bound them.
"Perhaps I can visit you in Reithwin soon, Halsin. I can't wait to see it with the curse lifted" Talin said.
Halsin's smile widened. "The very thought brings me joy, Talin. Reithwin will be waiting with open arms, and so will I."
She threw her arms around him. As she hugged him, her slender arms could scarcely encircle his broad chest, her hands barely meeting behind his back. Despite their vast difference in stature, her embrace held a sincerity that mirrored the warmth in her eyes. Halsin chuckled softly. He gently lowered one hand to cup the back of her head, returning the hug with a strength that held a tenderness that failed to justify his imposing physique.
As the others left the tavern, their hearts were heavy with goodbye but hopeful for what the future held, bound by the unseen threads of fate and friendship. The circle was getting smaller and smaller. Talin, Astarion and Shadowheart were the only ones left in the tavern.