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#I just need all the halsin content
its-jaytothemee · 2 months
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A Burden Shared - Part III: Relief
Pairings: Astarion x Tav, Halsin x Tav
Word count: 4,701; Tav POV; Final Part
Rating: Explicit, 18+; MDNI
Read on AO3
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Summary: A group sparring session turns sour, and Astarion becomes very protective of Tav. Halsin goes to comfort Tav afterwards and ends up confessing some feelings he's had for a while now.
Tags: Hurt/Comfort, Fluff, Eventual Smut, Feelings Confessions, Spoilers for Act 3, Sparring, Protective Astarion, Soft Halsin, Tav needs a fucking hug, Oral Sex, PiV Sex
Author's Note: Third and final part, smut incoming. Thanks so much for reading!
Tav and Halsin walked back into the camp together, exchanging slightly awkward glances and conversation. He broke off from her with a smile once the camp was in sight. She gave a small wave and then saw a few of her companions wandering over towards her. Astarion, Karlach, and…Lae’zel? Astarion and Karlach were walking a step or two behind Lae’zel, Astarion was speaking to her, but Tav couldn’t make out the words.
“Hello, darling.” Astarion said with a slight bow of his head. “I do hope you’re feeling better.”
“Um, yeah. A little.” She was desperately trying to hide how anxious she felt at the moment.
“I’m glad to hear it, my dear. Now, I believe Lae’zel has something she would like to say to you.” He was trying to sound light and happy, but underneath Tav could hear a much more threatening tone.
“I believe I owe you an…apology.” Lae’zel said the last word through gritted teeth. Tav looked at Astarion, who smiled innocently.
“Lae’zel, you don’t have to–” Tav was cut off by a grunt from Lae’zel who was glaring at Karlach.
“No. I…insist.” Her jaw was so tightly clenched that Tav was sure she would grind her teeth to dust.
“I spoke out of turn earlier. There is not a single person here who has not benefited from your kindness,” she paused and took a deep breath, “myself included.”
Tav stood staring at her, only managing to blink in response.
“I acted rashly and out of frustration. You have proven many times over to be an effective warrior and leader. This culture is still new to me, and sometimes I still find the customs vexing. I am sorry.” Her jaw had unclenched slightly before she finished talking. By the end, she almost sounded sincere.
“Thank you, Lae’zel. Apology accepted.” Tav smiled and held out her hand, which Lae’zel took for a very tight handshake. She glared at Astarion before turning away with a huff to go back to her tent. Tav turned her attention back to Karlach and Astarion.
“Awful nice of Lae’zel to come make amends, eh Soldier?” Karlach beamed at her.
“Yeah…incredibly nice of her to do that. Entirely on her own.” Tav responded, her eyes shifting back to Astarion.
“Yes, well I suppose everyone makes mistakes from time to time, darling.” He was still maintaining his innocent smile.
Karlach started to walk away but turned back around to whisper not so quietly in Tav’s ear.
“It was all Astarion.” She winked.
“Yeah, I got that buddy.” Tav whispered back. She turned back to Astarion once Karlach had walked away. He was still smiling. A warm feeling spread throughout her body as she smiled back at him. Stepping forward, she grabbed him by the collar and gave him a long, gentle kiss.
“Thank you.” She whispered.
“Whatever for?” He kept his aura of innocence intact. Tav rolled her eyes at him.
“Deny it all you want, but you did something very nice for me.”
“How dare you!” Astarion looked properly offended. Tav just smiled back. “Those kinds of accusations could get you into serious trouble, my dear. Best to keep it just between ourselves.”
“Not a chance. I’m going to tell anyone who will listen that Astarion Ancunin did something selfless and kindhearted.” She teased, taking a step like she was going to walk away. He caught her arm and pulled her back into another kiss.
“Now now, don’t go ruining my reputation.” He said softly.
“Fine, it’ll be our little secret.” She leaned into him and placed her head on his chest. Feeling his arms wrap around her, she let herself relax into him for a moment.
“You’re not alone, Tav. I hope you know that.” He whispered.
“I do.” She replied.
They stood in their embrace for a while, Tav working up the courage to bring up her conversation with Halsin. She looked around to see if they were far enough away from the others to talk. Karlach had ears like a godsdamned bat.
“So…how was your little walk in the woods? It seems like Halsin was able to help lift your spirits a little bit.” He pulled away from her.
Tav felt her heart start to race and a pit of anxiety form in her stomach.
“Uh, good…like I said I just needed to clear my head…” She could hear the nervousness creeping into her voice. One of her hands shot up to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
“You’re being weird…why are you being weird?” Astarion asked, one eyebrow raised.
“Um…” Tav paused, she could feel herself starting to blush.
“You can tell me, Tav.” He smiled softly at her.
“You uh…you wouldn’t believe the conversation I just had with Halsin.” She laughed nervously.
Astarion gave her a confused look, then suddenly let out a very loud laugh.
“Ha! I wondered when you would come talk to me about this.” He said, still laughing a little bit. Tav really wasn’t sure if the laughter was a good thing or not.
“Oh did…did Halsin already talk to you?” She asked, trying to judge his reaction.
“Oh darling, he didn’t need to. The two of you aren’t exactly subtle. For fucks’ sake Tav, you nearly introduced yourself as ‘fuckable’ when we first met him.”
Tav’s guilt from earlier in the day returned tenfold. She hid her face in her hands, regretting her decision to even bring this up.
“Gods, you must think I’m horrible…” She said, thankful that she seemed to have run out of tears for the day.
“You? Never. There’s no need to be embarrassed.” Astarion took her hands away from her face and gently and held them against his chest. “Gods know I’ve stolen my fair share of glances at the druid. I mean I saw him coming out of the river after a swim once and gods above…” Astarion stared off past her for a moment before shaking his head and bringing his attention back to her.
“I trust you, Tav. If this is something you want, I…” He paused. “I’m not opposed.”
Tav’s head snapped up to him, surprised.
“You’re…you’re not?” She asked, trying to make sure she was understanding.
“Halsin has experience with this kind of arrangement. He’s someone who I would trust to navigate it respectfully. I don’t know that I’m quite ready to jump into bed all together yet but…” He looked down at her hands and squeezed them just a little bit tighter.
“I just have to ask,” his voice was now barely louder than a whisper, “you aren’t asking this just because we…because we haven’t…you know in a while.” He was looking at the ground now, watching his feet kick some dirt around.
“Astarion, look at me.” She moved one of her hands to rest on his cheek, lifting his chin up to meet her gaze. “I never want you to think that for a moment. Sex or no sex, I want you by my side, always. If you told me that you couldn’t do this, I would refuse him right away. I just wanted to know if this was something you would be open to.”
“I know that, I was being silly. I just needed to hear it from you.” He turned his head to kiss the hand she had on his cheek. “Go, have fun with Halsin. Far be it from me to hold your hunger against you.”
“Thank you…for trusting me.” Tav responded, hugging him again.
Astarion and Tav walked back over towards the rest of camp together, breaking off at his tent. Tav walked to Halsin’s tent to find him whittling on the ground in front of it.
“Making another protection charm? I would love something that keeps the mosquitoes away from my tent.” She teased.
Halsin looked up at her and grinned.
“Ha, I’m glad your sense of humor seems to have returned. Unfortunately, I’m not aware of the god who you must pay homage to in order to keep mosquitoes away.” He stood up, sitting his tools to the side.
“Surely Silvanus could help,” she continued, “after all they are considered one of nature’s creations. At least I would assume.”
“Given how often I’ve already prayed to him asking him to protect you, I would assume he’s already done everything in his power.” His smile was more distracting to her now than ever.
“Have you already spoken to Astarion? A delicate topic of discussion I’m sure, so please take your time.” He was trying to keep his voice light, but Tav could hear a bit of a nervous edge to it.
“I have.” She responded quickly. “He’s open to what you proposed.”
“That is most gratifying to hear.” Halsin suddenly had a huge smile on his face, one that Tav returned.
“So…what happens now?” She asked.
“Now? Now we will have each other, but not just each other.” He responded, still smiling. “I do not ask you to pledge yourself to me. You are all I want, but I only wish to share in your heart, not keep it entirely for myself. Let others know the joy of being with you as well.”
Tav nodded in response, taking one of his hands in hers.
“I understand…this is what I want.” She said quietly.
“Then meet me tonight, after the others have gone to bed. Come back down by the river where we talked earlier.” He kissed her hand lightly before leaning in close to whisper in her ear. “But do not expect to get much rest.”
The words caused Tav’s cheeks to flush and a shiver to run down her spine. Halsin slowly let go of her hand and walked away towards the center of camp where their companions were starting to gather for their evening meal. She smiled after him and caught Astarion’s gaze, who gave her a smile and thumbs up gesture. His eagerness on her behalf made her giggle a little bit.
The rest of the evening was typical of their group. They each had a plate with a mix of cheeses and dried sausage, accompanied by glasses of wine from the various bottles they had opened. Everyone was laughing and joking as usual, all evidence of their earlier drama seemed to have faded away to Tav’s relief. Most everyone came to check on her, making sure her injuries were healed and that she was feeling better. She tried to give them her full attention, but she was already distracted thinking about the night to come. Every now and then she would catch Halsin looking at her and her heart rate would quicken again. Her obvious lack of focus gave Astarion plenty of material to joke about for the evening. Quietly and lovingly teasing her about tonight and other nights to come. Hearing him able to joke about their new relationship status put her even more at ease.
Slowly but surely, all of her friends started to retire for the night. She caught Halsin heading off into the trees rather soon after he finished his meal. It took all Tav’s self-control not to follow him immediately. It wasn’t too long after that Astarion excused himself for the night, giving her a soft kiss before leaving.
“Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do, darling.” He whispered with a wink. She smiled as she watched him walk away.
Tav offered to clean up the rest of the mess left after their meal, making sure everyone was off in their own tents before she followed after Halsin. As she stepped into the bushes, her heart began to race again, just as it had earlier in the day. However, before she was running away from her responsibilities, from her obligations. Now, she was running toward the start of something new.
***
Tav broke through the trees into the cleared area near the riverbank. She spotted Halsin standing next to a nearby tree, shirtless and eyes closed, his outstretched hand resting on the trunk. It was a very clear night and the moon cast a soft light across his face that made her heart flutter. She took a few more slow steps toward him, eventually stepping on a small twig that caused him to snap his head towards her.
“Ah, there you are. I wasn’t sure if you would show, I started to wonder if this was all too soon.” He said with a smile. Tav could hear a hint of nervousness underneath his smiling face.
“Nonsense,” she responded, “this is something I’ve wanted for some time.”
Halsin’s gaze suddenly shifted, and she felt as if he was peering into her very soul.
“As have I. Still, this is like a fantasy. I almost dare not to blink, lest you fade away into the night as you did in so many of my dreams.”
Tav slowly moved towards him, closing the gap between them with each step.
“Push those doubts from your mind, Halsin. I’m right here with you.” She reached up and placed her hand on his chest, feeling his heartbeat beneath her palm. He closed his eyes and sighed heavily at her touch.
“Yes, you are.” He whispered, almost in disbelief. “You have no idea how hard it has been to contain myself. I almost dare not give in now or else I will devour you entirely.” There was a hunger in his eyes that Tav had never seen before. It was intoxicating, taking all of her energy not to drag him to her level and kiss him until she was dizzy. She held his gaze, taking long, steadying breaths to keep her legs from giving out from under her.
“Well, that is why I’m here.” She responded, desire dripping from every syllable. Halsin smirked in response, sending a pulse of excitement through her entire body.
“Nevertheless, I will be gentle.” He said quietly. With startling speed, he stripped the remaining clothes from his body, barely breaking eye contact with Tav.
“Or at least, I shall try.” He had a wicked smile on his lips.
A moment later he was all over her. His large arms wrapped around her shoulders and waist, drawing her as close as possible. Their lips pressed together tightly, yet somehow also in the most tender way that made Tav want to melt further into his embrace. She felt his tongue gently part her lips to glide over her own. His warm skin pressed against every inch of her, taking away some of the chill from the evening breeze blowing past them. She reached her arms up to curl around his neck, pulling him even closer to her. He was already hard, pressing his erection against her thigh. Suddenly, he lifted her up and she quickly wrapped her legs around his waist, clinging to him like he was a piece of driftwood, and she was a lost soul at sea. He pressed her back up against a nearby tree, continuing to hold and kiss her until she felt as if she was going to faint. The bark of the tree was rough against her back, a stark contrast to Halsin’s smooth hands on her neck and arms. Tav pulled away slightly, their lips still barely touching.
“I suddenly feel overdressed.” Out of breath, she breathed the words out back into Halsin’s mouth. He smiled against her lips, gently releasing her to stand back on the ground.
Tav slowly moved her hands down to where her shirt was tucked in to her pants. While Halsin’s eager kisses were still distracting her, she pulled the fabric slowly up to her neck. He reached up and helped to pull the garment the rest of the way over her head, just briefly parting his lips apart from hers to do so. The warmth of their torsos pressed against each other made Tav smile. She reached down towards the top of her pants and as she did so, Halsin started kissing his way down her body. Her hands fumbled with the strings at her belt as she was fully preoccupied by the trail his lips left down her chest and stomach. Suddenly she felt him gently tugging at the strings with his teeth, quickly undoing the simple knot. Their hands worked together to slowly pull the remaining clothing from her lower body. She kicked the garments away as Halsin stood and slowly took a couple of steps back away from her.
“Just as nature intended.” His voice was a low growl, causing a flush to come over Tav’s face and chest.
“Come here to me.” He said in the same primal growling tone, his hungry eyes looking over every part of her.
She went to take a step towards him, but suddenly he stopped and hunched over slightly. A slight magical glow surrounded him, highlighting every line and groove across his body. With another growl and familiar hum of magic, the handsome elf before her suddenly transformed into a large cave bear. The creature’s eyes still glowed with the same lust she saw in Halsin’s elf form. After just a moment or two, the golden glow returned and Halsin was standing before her once more.
“I…I’m sorry.” He huffed. “Sometimes when blood runs hot enough it can be difficult to tame the beast.” He looked away from her, suddenly seeming ashamed of his loss of control. The display had startled Tav without question, but she thought no less of him for it. In fact, she was rather thrilled that his desire for her made him unable to control his druidic transformations.
“I’m flattered that I have that effect on you, love.” She gave him an encouraging smile. “Now come back over here.” Tav held her hand out, inviting him back into her arms.
A relieved smile spread across his face as he took a step towards her.
“I need no further encouragement.” He said, still slightly out of breath.
With that, he took her hand and was pressed against her once more, backing her body up against the tree again. He kissed every inch of her jaw and neck, earning small moans and sighs from her with each one. She had one arm around his neck and one around his waist, her fingers digging into his skin trying to pull him as close to her as possible. His cock pressed against her hips, warm and hard. She brought one of her legs up to hook around his thigh and started to slowly grind against him, feeling him twitch against the movements. Halsin let out a long sigh against her neck, moving his hips in time with hers.
After a few moments, he broke away and started to kiss down her torso again. His hands were constantly moving, tracing small shapes into her skin, every now and then pressing his hands harder into her back to pull her closer to him. He let his mouth wander over her breasts, catching each of her nipples with a small flick of his tongue. She felt like a pile of ooze, whimpering helplessly at each gentle touch. Continuing down her body, his kisses became slower and more teasing. Before she knew it he was kneeling in front of her, hands gently pushing her legs a little further apart.
He continued his tortuous kissing around her stomach, moving his way to her inner thighs, lightly biting the soft skin. She dug her nails into the skin of his arms and shoulders, soaking in every sensation. As he continued to kiss and bite along her legs, his hands slowly made their way up the front of her thighs to her sex. His warm fingers moved around her folds, spreading the wetness around them. He used his thumbs to massage her, causing her knees to buckle but he held her up. They slowly slid up and circled her clit, one at a time.  Her entire core was aching under his touch. She was torn between pushing him to the ground and immediately taking him or letting him continue to tease her so this could be drawn out for as long as possible. Tav worked one of her hands into his hair, lightly caressing his scalp.
The movement caused Halsin to moan against her leg, which she returned in kind. She gently tugged at his hair, pulling him up to where his hands were eagerly pleasuring her. His fingers were quickly replaced by his tongue causing a loud gasp from Tav. As his hands greedily grabbed at her thighs and butt, his tongue swirled and flicked its way around her entire cunt. She could feel her legs starting to shake under the sudden change of pace, she tangled her hands further into his hair, pressing his face harder into her pelvis. She could feel his lips turn up into a smile at the motion, a small moan vibrating against her sensitive skin.
“Gods…fuuuuck…” She could barely choke out a word in between her gasping and whimpers.
Halsin didn’t let up, he continued to lick and suck, every now and then letting one of his fingers come up and help. She could feel her body building towards release as she concentrated on Halsin’s tongue tasting every bit of her. Her toes curled into the soft earth below her under the strain. With one final flick of his tongue, he took as much of her as he could into his mouth and sucked until she couldn’t keep herself from crying out in pleasure. She felt the wave of ecstasy ripple through her body as he slowed his movements to a stop, his hands still massaging their way around her body. Her knees were weak and her legs were shaking, but she still wanted more of him.
Halsin looked up at her, wiping his mouth on the back of his arm. He stood up slowly and pressed his body back against hers. As if he had read her mind, he leaned in and whispered in her ear.
“More?” He asked, slightly out of breath.
Tav bit her lower lip in response and drew him in for a kiss, still able to taste her own arousal on his lips. She pulled him down to the ground on top of her, wrapping her legs around his waist. He held her there for a moment, staring into her eyes. One of his hands came up to cradle her face, gently caressing her cheek. She smiled back up at him, wrapping her arm around his neck and pulling him in for another kiss.
He took the opportunity to slowly lower himself on to her, pressing his cock against her, but not entering her yet. Her hips instinctively moved up to meet him as he grinded around her folds, but it wasn’t enough. She moved one of her hands down to grip around him and started stroking up and down, holding him against her. He let out a surprised moan against her lips.
“I need more of you, Halsin.” She breathed the words into his ear.
“As you wish, my heart.” He replied in a low whisper.
Halsin let her guide him towards her entrance, hovering his tip just outside. Still holding on to his cock, she circled his tip around her, letting her wetness cover him. The movement earned her another low moan from him as he slowly lowered himself into her. They each let out a long sigh at the feeling. She let go of him to bring her hand back up into his hair, holding his head in place against hers. Slowly he filled her, pressing his entire length into her body. He paused for a moment and let her adjust to the sensation, she could feel him throbbing inside of her.
“You feel incredible, my love.” He whispered into her ear.
His words sent a shiver through her body, causing her to arch her back up towards him. Halsin placed one hand on the ground by her head to steady himself as he began to slowly thrust himself in and out of her. His other hand moved down to rub her clit at the same time. Tav closed her eyes and tilted her head back, letting her hips move in time with his. His thrusts started to get harder and deeper, the combination of pleasure from both his cock and his fingers threatening to send Tav over the edge. Her hands gripped his thighs, silently begging him to go deeper each time. Both of their moans and cries seemed to get louder each time he pushed back into her. Her legs were shaking again, one of her hands shot back up to Halsin’s face to pull him down and kiss him deeply. He quickened his pace even more, drawing quick shallow breaths through his nose as the kiss muffled their moans. Tav couldn’t hold on any longer, she threw both of her arms around him and pulled him as tight against her as she could. She cried out, burying her face in his neck. Waves of pleasure washed over her body, she could feel herself involuntarily spasming around him as he took his last few thrusts to find his own release. He collapsed on top of her, the weight of his body helping to subdue her shaking muscles. She could feel him pulsing inside of her, squeezing every last drop from himself in his final few thrusts. They laid there tangled together for a moment, both breathing heavily.
Tav had no other thoughts in her mind except for the relief she felt here in Halsin’s arms. The pressure of leadership gone, the guilt that soured her fantasies had vanished, all of the doubt she had felt over the past few days nowhere to be found.
Slowly, Halsin rolled to the side, propping himself up on one arm to face her. She traced the lines along the muscles of his torso, wiping away the small beads of sweat that had formed. The night breeze helped cool her warm, flushed skin. He pulled her close, pressing her hands against his chest and her head to the side of his neck. She lazily kissed along his neck and shoulder, listening to the small sighs they elicited from him. His hands softly stroked her back, wiping away some of the dirt and leaves that had stuck to her.
“Maybe next time we should bring a bedroll. Or better yet find a bed somewhere.” She murmured against him.
“The comforts offered by that type of furniture are not something I’m accustomed to.” He chuckled. “But by all means, if you find a piece up to the challenge, please let me know right away.”
She snuggled closer to him, listening to his heartbeat and soft breaths. After a few moments he pulled her up with him and led her towards the water.
“At least let me clean you up before we make our way back to camp.” He offered with a smile.
They waded into the river; the water was cool but not uncomfortable. Halsin moved out far enough where they could sit comfortably in the water, coming up almost to Tav’s shoulders as he pulled her onto his lap. He used his hands to gently pour water over her back and arms, rinsing away the dirt stuck to her. She leaned forward and kissed him softly, holding his face in her hands.
“Maybe we don’t have to go back just yet.” She whispered.
“Oh?” He was smiling back up at her, still slowly caressing her back.
“The night’s still young…and I seem to recall you promising that I wouldn’t get much rest.” Tav’s heart was racing again, her mind blurred with lust and longing for him. She wanted more of him, she needed to feel him against her for longer.
Halsin suddenly gripped her back, pulling her body tight against him. He pressed his lips right up against her to whisper in her ear.
“Well, I cannot allow you to go to bed disappointed, my heart.”
Tav couldn’t help but let out an excited laugh as he picked her up and waded out further into the water, eager to feel Halsin’s loving touch long into the night. And for many more nights to come.
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clericofkelemvor · 3 months
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i am actually genuinely so mad about how larian is going about things, on a professional level. i work as a software dev - when i put something out that is meant to be public ready, i make as sure are possible that there are no bugs. if there are any, i fix that asap, before adding anything on top of it bc 1) it disturbs user experience and 2) adding smth on top of a bugged foundation means at best u reproduce the bug, at worst U MAKE IT WORSE and then u have to untangle that
youd think this logic would go double for smth as complex as a video game but apparently its more important to [checks notes] make lae'zel nicer????
like im aware theyre... allegedly, considering what i hear of the state of the game post patch 6.0... fixing bugs. but by modifying/adding other things at the same time theyre actually creating or worsening more bugs than theyre fixing. and its. fucking stupid. and it makes me mad because its such basic logic that they're completely ignoring
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allegorism · 3 months
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while i think it's fair to worry about how much they're going to change certain stuff, i also think there's Way too much doomposting surrounding bg3's changes in characterisation
#'they changed lae'zel' its literally a greeting.#which changes w different levels of affinity#and according to what i've read it was always in the game files but wasn't working?#she's pretty much still the same in the main plot and in her romance#and the whole thing w gale being more lenient about the magic items is literally bc he would leave if you closed the inventory#without giving him anything#like literally the only real change in characterisation that i've seen has been astarion and his opinion on the mizora thing#that and the gortash gay letters that were changed#other than that the changes have only added scenes (mostly related to epilogue stuff which may have felt lacking at first) and fixed bugs#i will also say that wyll's part in all of this has been Very lacking because he truly needs more content in comparison to astarion#but if they're willing to listen to fans? maybe they Will add stuff?#and about the added lines to the gortash scene.... adding more dialogue options is Not changing the characterisation of a character#it's literally giving you more options. if you don't like them you can literally NOT press the button#OH. i've just remembered. halsin's new thing. not going romantic on you if you didn't flirt with him#that's also another characterisation change i noticed. but that's a coherent one#if you didn't flirt with halsin why would he. yk.#anyways. i'm seeing too much doomposting. worrying about this is normal but people are being so pessimistic#mona.txt
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sabersandsnipers · 7 months
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Drabbles: Just One Bed
Featuring: Astarion, Gale, Halsin, Lord Gortash
Inspiration courtesy of @creativepromptsforwriting
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Astarion
There’s only one pillow. So you and Astarion have to share. Neither of you want the annoyance of waking up with neck pain. And after arguing for a bit, you realize neither of you is winning.
Despite trying his best to keep distance between you, it’s incredibly difficult while trying to share a pillow. His body cradles yours. His lips nearly touch the back of your neck. For a while he manages to keep his hands to himself, but as his eyes grow heavy, his arm snakes its way around your waist.
Your body feels like its on fire despite his cold skin. You’re worried the rapid beat of your heart will keep him awake.
Somehow sleep eventually finds you. In the middle of the night, you roll over to find a more comfortable position. When you wake up, you find your face buried in Astarion’s chest.
He himself hasn’t slept since you rolled into him. He’s kept his arm slung over you, though, and has listened to your steady breathing all night.
When you attempt to move away from him, his grip around you automatically tightens. You freeze, waiting for him to realize you’re awake, but he doesn’t let go. He doesn’t want to. He can’t remember the last time he felt this relaxed. Your body is warm and soft, and he never wants to leave this bed.
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Gale
The bed is roomy, which you’re grateful for. There should be plenty of space for you two. There’s no blanket though, so Gale roots through the closet for one.
Gale clears his throat, and you turn your attention to him holding up a rather small blanket. One that definitely would not cover the whole bed.
“You have it,” he hands it to you. “I’ll be fine.”
You hesitate. “Are you sure?”
“Most definitely,” he replies, already making his way to the bed.
You climb in next to him, pulling the blanket up to your chin. It’s barely big enough to cover your own person. You look to Gale, who’s turned away from you. He looks so exposed, and frankly, uncomfortable.
“Gale?” you say.
“Hm?” he turns to look at you.
“Do you want to share?” you ask. You hold up the blanket so he can slide in.
He doesn’t need to be asked twice. He scooches over to you, and you let the blanket drop around you two. You let out a sigh of contentment as the warmth of Gale’s body presses against you. You usually run cold, so you’re grateful he accepted your offer.
He wraps his arms around you, because there’s no other way for you two to get comfortable. In the night, he even drapes a leg over you. You don’t mind, you even find yourself nuzzling into him, seeking every bit of warmth you can.
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Halsin
A rainstorm tears your tent in the night. The cold splatter of rain on your face wakes you. Your bedroll is soaked, along with most of your belongings. You groan, getting out of bed so you can seek shelter with a companion. 
Out of all the tents before you, Halsin’s calls to you. You know it’ll be the warmest. Before you can talk yourself out of it, you make your way to his tent. 
You poke your head in. “Halsin?”
He wakes, an alarmed look on his face. “What is it?”
“My tent ripped. Can I stay with you?” A shiver slinks through your body. 
He nods. “Of course.”
He opens his bed roll a bit, and you see he’s naked. Your jaw drops. You hesitate, part of you feeling like you’re crossing a line. 
But then another shiver hits you, and you practically run into his arms. You sigh as you slide into the warmth of his bedroll. 
Halsin groans. “You’re freezing.” 
  “I know.” You don’t hesitate to press up against him, soaking in all his warmth. 
  “You’ll warm up soon,” he says, rubbing your back. Then his voice hits your ear. “You’d warm sooner if you removed your clothes as well.” 
Your stomach drops. You know if you do this, your companionship is going to get a bit complicated. But the thought of his hot skin against yours is too tempting.
He helps you out of your clothes, your heart fluttering the whole time. When you’re fully naked, he pulls you into his chest. Your heart pounds, but you relax against the heat of him. 
He fully cocoons you, wrapping a thick leg around you to pull you even closer. You feel your body start to warm, and the shivers start to cease. You try to ignore how perfectly lined up you are to him. You know sleep will be impossible like this, but it’s worth it to spend the night in his warm embrace.
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Gortash
You may have had one drink too many. The wine Enver provided for you was far too good to go to waste. And waste you did not.  The last thing you remember is the soft cushioning of a bed before darkness took you. 
The harsh morning light wakes you. The first sensation that hits you is that of a pounding headache. The next is that of a pair of strong arms encircling you. 
Confusion hits you. You don’t remember going to bed with anyone. You feel your underwear is on, so nothing happened with whoever is in the bed with you. 
You slowly turn your body to see who this mystery person is. You’re met with the strong face of Lord Gortash. Butterflies fill your belly. He simply invited you over for dinner, and here he is letting you sleep in his bed. 
He’s sound asleep, his soft breathing evidence of the relaxed state he’s in. He’s sleeping shirtless, and you tentatively place your palms against his strong chest. You feel the strong muscles rippling under his skin. 
He stirs slightly and you quickly hide your face against his chest. He shifts, his chest hairs tickling your skin. His powerful arms hold you so gently.
With your headache forgotten, and Enver’s body sending waves of warmth through you, sleep finds you again.
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aerynwrites · 8 months
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Longing
Halsin x Fem!Reader
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A/N: I have been burning with an intense CRAVING for Halsin and there is such little fic about him (although there are some good ones out there 👀) so I had to do my part and add to the pool 😏 hope y’all enjoy!
Word count: 2.5k
Warnings: fluff, hurt/comfort, reader is insecure about her virginity, talks of inexperience, love confessions, Halsin is a sweetheart, references to NSFW content. Very very minor spoilers for act 2.
Part 2
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The fur of the rabbit is soft between your fingers as you prepare it. Yet, despite having a knife in your other hand and your task being a delicate one, you can’t seem to focus.
Your eyes keep drifting back to the druid across camp chopping wood for the fire. The axe is a large one, heavy - heavier than you’d be able to lift. Yet the large elf manages to bring it up above his head and swing it back down with a grace you never understood how he possessed.
The muscles in his shoulders ripple with each movement, accompanying the rythmic thump of the axe through wood. His soft grunts as he pulls it from the stump he’s using before placing the next log onto the surface and starting the process all over again.
“The rabbit is already dead, darling.”
The familiar voice rips you from your staring as your head whips around to see none other than your vampiric companion standing over you, a smirk tugging at his lips. You huff at him before looking down to the rabbit by your knees and heat rushes to your cheeks. What should have been a simple skinning job to get the meat ready for dinner has turned into a mess. Cuts in the wrong places, the hide nowhere near usable anymore.
You look back up just in time to see Astarions red eyes go from you, to Halsin, then back again. His smile grows. He shifts his feet, one arm resting across his chest as he gestures with his other to Halsin.
“You know, you could paint a portrait. It would last longer.”
Your cheeks somehow get even hotter, as you turn back to the rabbit in front of you, doing a much better job than earlier.
“Leave me alone, Astarion,” you mumble, cursing internally when the elf lowers himself to the ground beside you, arms resting on his knees.
“And why would I do that, when teasing you gives me so much joy?”
You can’t stop the small smile that tugs at your lips. “Okay, well you got me all flustered. So now that’s out of the way, did you need something or did you really interrupt your reading to bother me?”
The vampire sighs, leaning back on his hands as he looks over to you. “What I need is for you to finally jump that druids bones.”
You nearly choke as the words leave his lips, looking around to see if anyone heard and feeling heat creep up your neck once more as you see Shadowheart failing to hide a chuckle.
You turn to face your friend, eyes narrowed. “Could you be a little more quiet? I don’t need the whole camp hearing you.”
Astarion laughs this time, loudly, and it draws more glances than you’d like. You roughly shove the man next to you before he can speak.
“Your next words better be a whisper or I’m going to stab you ” you threaten, poking the knife in his direction.
Astarion places a hand over his heart, faux hurt in his eyes. “You wound me, darling. I’m just trying to help you. Plus,” he gestures to the camp, “it’s not like your attraction is a secret, nor Halsin’s.”
You shake your head turning back to grab another rabbit, embarrassment welling up in your chest. “He doesn’t…” you trail off, getting defensive. “Nothing’s there, Astarion. So can we please just drop it?”
Of course, he doesn’t.
“Look,” he starts, “all I’m trying to say is that neither of you are benefiting from holding back so…indulge, for once. Gods know we all deserve it.”
You ignore him. Curling in on yourself at the mention of…indulging. There nothing wrong with it of course. Everyone at camp has blown off steam along this adventure. Just…not you.
And the vampire must be able to tell too, because at your silence he straightens up, brows pinching in the rare way that shows he’s concerned.
“Wait, have you never…?” he gestures vaguely in the air.
His words, despite their genuine curiosity, strike a chord in you. You stand abruptly, tossing your work to the ground and stabbing your knife in the dirt.
“No I haven’t. Not that it’s any of your business.” Your words are louder than you intended and draw the eyes and ears of your other companions.
Astarion softens, obviously not expecting this reaction. “I didn’t mean to upset you-“
You clench your fists at your sides, interrupting him. “You never mean to Astarion but -“ You cut yourself off, taking a deep breath. “You’re such an ass sometimes.”
You turn on your heel and storm from camp before anyone can stop you, ignoring the concerned gaze of a certain druid.
———
The water is cool against your skin as you squat by the stream’s edge, rubbing at your hands as you try to get the blood off of them.
You feel foolish now, storming off like that. But Astarion pointing out your inexperience just struck you. It’s not something that’s ever bothered you before. Especially not in recent months since dealing with the tadpole. You all have more important things to worry about.
But the moment you rescued Halsin…it’s like something changed. You were instantly drawn to him. His kind smile and thoughtful words. His care for everyone and everything in nature.
And he flirted with you.
The memory is still fresh in your mind. The night of the tiefling party after you had stopped the ritual at the druid camp and saved Halsin. You were worried you were talking his ear off, but he was attentive the whole conversation. Answering your questions and asking some about you.
Then he said those honeyed words. Suggested celebrating by spending the night with someone special. Implied he would spend it with you if his mind wasn’t elsewhere.
You withdraw your hands from the water to drag them down your face as more memories surface.
More flirtatious banter and kind words. Thoughtful conversations and fighting side by side. The night sat by your bedside nursing you back to health after a particularly nasty fight. After Ketheric Thorm almost took you out.
Your side still aches with the memory. But the thought of his hands with their soothing healing glow, makes the ache subside.
You sigh, sitting back into the grass as your eyes lock onto the slowly gurgling stream, Astarion words playing over and over in your head.
Indulge, for once.
You want to. Gods do you want that.
You’ve spent many sleepless nights thinking about it. About his lips against yours, his hands on your skin, the sweet words he’d no doubt whisper against your ear.
You shudder at the thought before shoving it away. Because any time he hinted at that - showed any interest in you - you would be so elated before insecurity took over.
Halsin’s views on love and intimacy are no secret. You’d asked him once about current lovers and while he did confide no one currently held his affections back home he also expressed that there were others in the past.
Others. Plural.
And you’ve never been with anyone. Not physically or emotionally, you’ve never trusted anyone enough.
Not until now.
You sigh, frustration creeping back in as you press the heels of your palms into your eyes before quickly standing up. You need to apologize to Astarion and finally, maybe, talk to Halsin.
You turn on your heel to do just that when you run straight into a solid mass. You gasp, stumbling backwards just as two strong hands reach out to steady you, gripping your wrists firmly.
Once steady, you look up to see none other than the man haunting your thoughts smiling down at you.
“You must have been very deep in thought for someone like me to sneak up on you, little one.”
You have to suppress a shiver at the nickname. A moniker he’d given you since you teased him about his size at the beginning of your friendship.
You shake your head, moving to step away and only stopping when his hands let go only to slip down and take your own gently.
“I’m sorry,” you apologize. “I was just…thinking.”
Halsin stares at you for a moment, a thoughtful look on his face before he steps away, gesturing down the first path, one hand still in your own.
“Walk with me?” he asks. “I know being in nature helps me clear my head of even the darkest thoughts.”
You give a hesitant nod and follow him as he turns towards the path, not able to stop the smile when he doesn’t drop your hand.
———
The walk is mostly silent, a comfortable silence, but silent nonetheless. And you are grateful for it, not sure what you would say if Halsin were to ask what has you so upset.
But, silence can’t last forever it seems, because eventually the large Druid breaks through the sounds of nature surrounding you to speak.
“I overheard your conversation with Astarion,” he says, voice gentle. Probing, but not not forcing you to talk if you do not wish.
You stiffen, your pace slowing slightly, wanting to pull away from the man at your side. But his sure grip on your hand keeps you in place. The warmth of his skin on yours puts you slightly at ease.
“You…you heard that?” you ask, cringing internally. “You were across camp.”
The druid chuckles, gesturing to his ears with his free hand. “One of the curses of us elves. Impeccable hearing. Even when we don’t wish for it.”
You can feel your shoulders creeping up to your ears. Embarrassment settling in once more. “You were listening to us? To me?”
Halsin shrugs. “Not intentionally,” he admits, slowing his steps until you’re both stopped and he’s facing you. “But I find my attention turning towards you more often than not these days.”
His words tie your tongue and before you can gather enough sense to respond he continues.
“Nature works in mysterious ways, little one,” he tells you, eyes never leaving your face. “There is no one way to traverse it, and others journey do not define your own. Each one is unique, as it is intended.”
His words are beautifully woven, as always. And despite his cryptic deliverance, you know the meaning behind his words.
He’s comforting you. And once again, he speaks before you can detangle the jumble of thoughts in your head.
“And,” he reaches out, placing a curled finger beneath your chin to urge you to look up at him, “if it’s any encouragement, I seek you out as much as you do me. Possibly more so.”
Your eyes widen, heart stuttering in your chest at his words. He…does he feel the same way? Rationally you know he does. But that ever familiar self doubt, the tiny voice in your mind has always brushed away the flirting - the kind words and gentle touches as just part of his nature. None of it is reserved just for you.
Right?
Halsin smiles, eyes crinkling at the corners gently as he looks down at you. “Is that really such an outlandish thought? That I return your affections?” He pauses, “unless my heart has run ahead of itself and I have misread-“
You stop him then, reaching up to place a staying hand on his own beneath your chin.
“No! You haven’t…you haven’t misread,” you assure him, trying to still your racing heart.
His smile never falters, his other hand finally coming up to cradle the back of your head, teasing soft strands of hair between his fingers.
“That is good to hear,” he says, pulling you ever closer, his nose almost brushing yours, “it puts this old druid's mind at rest.”
Gods, you can’t breathe. The air in your lungs refusing to expel as he lean even closer, lips a hairbreadth away from your own. Your body sings with anticipation, your skin hot despite the cool air ushered in by the sun sinking below the horizon, the days last rays barely filtering through the trees.
“Can I kiss you, my heart?”
Halsins words are soft, barley a whisper and nearly drowned out by the sounds of nature around you and the roaring of blood in your ears.
You nod. “Please-“
The word barely passes your lips before he descends upon you, sealing his mouth with your own.
It’s both everything you expected and completely surprising at the same time. His hands are sure as he pulls you into him, one hand still cradling your head as the other slips down to your hip before wrapping around your waist. Yet his lips, the kiss itself is…soft. Gentle. Loving. The action speaks louder than any words either of you have said to one another. Louder than the words you never worked up the courage to speak.
Finally, your mind catches up with you, and your hands slide up his chest to clutch tentatively at his shoulders.
Halsins still hasn’t broken away from you, and when his tongue brushes against your lips you let him in. You tug him closer then, one of your hands sliding up to rest at the back of his neck eliminating any empty space between you as his tongue slides against your own.
He only pulls away when he must sense your need for air, but he doesn’t go far, lips pressing gently to the corner of your own, and then another to your jaw.
You’re breathless.
Chest heaving against him, as he pulls away just enough to look at you once more.
“As much as I’d love to continue…” his hand squeezes your hip gently, “we should make our way back to camp. I can imagine our absence as stirred gossip with our vampiric companion and..” he sighs, pressing another soft kiss to your lips. “I don’t want to overwhelm you.”
You can’t surprise the shiver that runs down your spine, or the smile that tugs at your lips.
“I’m…I’m okay being overwhelmed if it’s like that,” you tell him breathlessly.
Halsin laughs, a deep down genuine laugh that makes your heart sing even as he steps away from you.
“Then I will overwhelm you in all the ways I know how.” He promises, eyes trailing over you heatedly.
Your stomach does a flip at his words, and the effect they have on you must show on your face because Halsin chuckles again, leaning in to press one last kiss to your cheek before tugging you back in the direction towards camp.
“Another night, my heart,” he says, thumb brushing over your knuckles from where your hand remains in his own.
You let out a shaky breath, and nod, smiling as you walk closer to him. “I’m holding you to that.”
“I hope you would, though I doubt I will forget such a promise,” he assures before letting silence blanket you both one more.
You can’t stop the thrill that runs through you at his words.
Yes, I’ll hold you to that promise indeed.
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finn-writes-stuff · 6 months
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Could I request headcanons for Gale, Halsin, Wyll, and Gortash with touch starved gn s/o?
A Soft Touch
Adventuring to save the world leaves little time for comfort. Yet they provide it anyway.
Gale, Halsin, Wyll & Gortash x Reader
Fandom: Baldur's Gate 3
Format: Headcanons
Gender Neutral Reader
Masterlist
My first bg3 work! Apologies if I don't have their characterization just right yet. - Finn
Gale
You're both so incredibly touch-starved. He has only had the company of his cat ever since he locked himself up in his tower.
He's terribly gentle when he does touch you. As if he expects you to disappear if he grabs you too tight. As if one of you might just shatter.
It's easier for him to touch you through magic. Encounters in the weave, mage hand, anything of the like. It allows him to touch you without feeling so overwhelmed with it.
But once he truly starts touching you regularly, he can't get enough. He'll have you in his arms while he reads, or he'll lay on your lap and speak of magical innovations.
He drinks you in like the magic he needs to live. Knowing that his touch is providing some benefit for you makes him content and satisfied. Gale lives to make you happy and see you smile.
Halsin
Gods, this man gives the most incredible hugs. The only one who compares is Karlach. He's warm and soft and strong and he holds you as though he would never let anything hurt you.
He's quite a tactile person in general. His hand is regularly on your shoulder when he points something out or asks your opinions. If you're comfortable with it, his hand will rest on the small of your back when he walks with you. He likes keeping the point of combat.
Fall asleep in his arms, on his chest. You will never sleep better than this. It will ruin you for any bed ever.
He's quite careful about boundaries. If you are overwhelmed by him touching you so much, he will tone it down and keep it at your pace.
Alternatively, if it's not enough for you, he's always ready to offer a full body massage.
Wyll
Literal king of romance. He is determined to court you properly. His touch always feels like it has intention and awareness to it.
Loves to kiss your knuckles and make eye contact as he does. It feels ridiculously intimate for just a kiss on the hand.
Wyll traces the lines and curves of your face while you relax with him, admiring you and memorizing your features.
Having you close, whether in an embrace or a dance, settles him. He keeps you close as much as you allow it.
If you ask him to hold you, he will stop nearly whatever he is doing in order to do so. Lae'zel makes fun of him for pausing his sparring for it.
Gortash
Oh if he had it his way (And he rarely tolerates anything less), you would never leave his side. You being touch-starved just gives him all the more reason to keep you there.
Enver is possessive in the way he holds you. He will have a portrait commissioned of the two of you with his gauntleted hand settled firmly on your hip.
He's inevitably touch-starved himself, but he's unlikely to admit this. Just allow him to hold you when you fall asleep or he'll be frustrated with everyone in the morning.
Gortash has the ability to pamper you and he takes advantage of it. He'd have you bathe with him in a bath full of expensive soaps and he'll wash your hair. He will also be ridiculously smug for as long as you smell like him afterwards.
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loviatarsluv · 3 months
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The Last Vampire Spawn
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inspired by this post by @fangsandfeels as well as this gorgeous art by @ria-neearts above that may or may not have made me sob at work when I saw it :)
also inspired by my dire need to hug this poor baby in this scene in particular and give him literally any sort of comfort because god knows he needs it 😭
Astarion x gn!tav / Astarion x gn!reader
SPOILER WARNING! act 3 and the climax of Astarion’s quest line!
CW: violence, death, anguish, angst, blood, gore
rating: sfw (still mature for the listed content above)
in summary: Astarion finally kills cazador and bro needs a hug and a therapist fr
this one is very short I don’t even know the word count lol
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Astarion’s guttural and enraged wails echo against the stone walls of the crypt, nearly drowning the sounds of Cazador’s failed attempts at gurgled shrieks as the dagger pierced his body over, and over, and over.
You stand at the bottom of the stairs and watch, gripping onto Halsin as he wraps a comforting arm around your shoulders as the three of you watch in horror while Astarion lets out two hundred years worth of pain, and agony, and hatred into every single thrust of the blade through his old master’s body. Hot tears sting your face as you watch on, tension filling the gaps of silence between your companions.
The vampire lord’s body falls limp before Astarion, bloodied and covered in viscera, lifeless. He takes a deep breath, falling back on his feet as his knees dig into the bloody marble floor. Sobs wrack through his body as he looks down with disdain at the corpse before him.
You exchange a glance with Halsin, a deeply unsettled and concerned face set into his features that wasn’t typical for his usually calm and collected persona. He looks between you and Astarion, and with just a glance, you realize what he’s thinking.
Before you can stop yourself, you run to Astarion, kneeling beside him. He’s too distraught to notice your presence beside him, so you place a gentle hand on his shoulder. He jolts slightly at your touch, then turns his face - his bloody, tear stained, and ever beautiful face to you, crimson eyes filled with a million emotions you couldn’t even begin to comprehend.
“I’m here, my love. It’s over. You did it,” you whisper, voice trembling and breaking.
His eyes scan your face frantically, chest rising and falling rapidly and anxiously, his breathing ragged and uneven - he looks at you, and you look back at him, as you try to force a reassuring smile through your own tears.
His face twists into an even deeper scowl as his eyes dart between you and the ruined corpse crumpled on the floor next to you.
“His death isn’t enough. It’ll never be enough.” He growls, his fists clenching onto the fabric of his breeches.
You stare at him, speechless. You know that no words could suffice or possibly begin to dull the pain that was evident in his face.
“I suffered through two hundred years of pain and starvation and torture… and all I’ve gotten from it all was being the one to see the light leave that monster’s eyes,” he whispers angrily, tears still rapidly streaming down his blood covered cheeks. “It isn’t fair.”
You tentatively move your face so that your eyes meet his once again, nearly afraid of what you’ll see when you do.
His eyes scan your face for a moment, and he presses his lips into a thin line.
“And where were you twenty years ago? A hundred? Where were you when I was new? When I was one of those innocent young men you’d come to the rescue for?” He barks, his voice booming and bouncing off of the stone walls and into your ears making your head pound.
“Astarion—“
“How dare you! How dare you come to me now… when I’m this!” He wails, his voice cracking on the last word, his shoulders slumping.
Hot tears return to your waterline and pour over your lashes as you wrap your arms around him, pulling him into your chest and cradling his head.
He presses his face into your chest, eventually wrapping his arms around your waist and melting into you, causing you to fall backwards slightly as he practically lays on your body, sobbing into your gear. He grips the back of your shirt as if his life depended on it, even though for the first time in what felt like a while, perhaps it didn’t.
Because despite the roiling dread in his gut - he was free. At long last.
You tangle your fingers into his hair, gently rubbing circles into his bare back as you let him cry. Sob. Scream. For as long as he needs.
The others slowly migrate closer, but not too close, not wanting to interrupt or intrude, just silently exchanging sympathetic glances, and a flash of pride across Karlach’s face as she looks on.
After what felt like hours, Astarion goes quiet, his breath slowly evening out. He sniffles, then slowly lifts his head so his eyes meet yours.
You place a hand on his cheek, wiping a tear away with your thumb. He closes his eyes, savoring your touch, and sighs.
“He’s gone,” he whispers, almost too quietly for you to hear. As if he were mostly whispering it to himself. “He’s really gone…”
You nod, rubbing small circles on his cheek with your thumb. “I am so, so proud of you.”
He offers you a small, weak smile, that you return in kind. You place a kiss to the spot between his furrowed brows, his tense body relaxing only slightly into your touch. He still feels coiled up like a serpent ready to strike, still heavily on guard despite Cazador and his minions being long gone. You presume it will be a long while before he truly relaxes, but you feel more than willing and ready to be there every step of the way.
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leemacher · 5 months
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You're Enough For Me | Astarion x Gn!Tav!Reader
Summary: Shortly after making it to Baldur's Gate, a moment alone with Halsin reveals how he truly feels about you. In talking to Astarion, you realize the true extent to which his time with Cazador affected him, and his relationship with you. OR In which you and Astarion have a conversation about you rejecting Halsin because I don't like that you can't bring that moment up unless you imply that you said yes to Halsin
Word Count: 2,343
Content: fluff, slight angst, mentions of sex, Astarion's trauma, established relationship
Sliding down a tree trunk to sit, resting against it, you didn’t even begin to take in the river before you. Instead, you closed your eyes for the first time in what felt like days. Listening to the river rushing by you and the birds chirping around you, with a deep breath in your muscles began to relax. 
For once there were no goblins or shadow monsters to watch out for, there were no cultists trying to kill you or the gods chosen to deal with, and no one needed saving. In that moment it was you and the calm, peaceful world around you.
Unfortunately, like all good things, your perfect serene world melted away at the sound of light footsteps behind you.
“If you're here to kill me, bargain with me, or ask for a favor, come back tomorrow. I’m taking the night off.” At your voice, the footsteps abruptly stopped, and instead came a laugh that you would know anywhere.
Astarion moved to stand next to your sitting form, leaning up against the tree on his side. “Darling, if that was your attempt at intimidation it needs some work.”
You found yourself chuckling with a light smile before looking up at him. “Maybe you can teach me.”
He hummed, casting his eyes towards the river. Taking the moment to admire his features, as you often found yourself doing in moments like these as of late, you couldn’t help but wonder how you had gotten lucky enough to be involved with someone like him. No matter how often you knew he thought himself unworthy of your affection, or any affection really, you felt the exact opposite.
This man who had been through so much, fought for so long, had chosen you. Astarion’s past was one both of you battled nightly, so while you didn’t know all of the little details, you knew enough to understand how deeply his time with Cazador affected him. How much of himself he had lost. The idea that what little of himself he had left he was willingly given to you sent shivers up and down your spine every time you thought about it. He chose to be vulnerable with you, he was open with you, eventually, and he could find safety and comfort in your presence. You were definitely the lucky one.
“C’mon, love.” His voice brought you out of your thoughts. By the look on his face, you could tell he had been thinking of the same things.
Grabbing his hand and pulling yourself up and towards him, the two of you began your walk back to camp. Tomorrow you would finally reach the city, and all of the chaos and stress would fall right back onto your shoulders. Tonight though? Tonight you were going to lie down, curled into Astarion’s side, and have the best sleep you’ve had since this nightmare had begun.
 Filing back into camp after a long day of wandering around the city, you couldn’t help but feel joy when you saw Gale making something over the fire out of a few ingredients he had bought during the day. It had been a while since any of you have had food that didn’t just consist of whatever animal you had come across during your journey.
Setting your things down, the first thing you noticed was that most of your companions hadn’t come back yet. Only you, Shadowheart, Gale and Halsin had had their fill of the city it would seem.
While sorting through the items you had bought and… well, not bought, a hand landed on your shoulder and you jumped in fright. Whipping around you came face to face with Halsin, who had a guilty look upon him.
“Sorry, I did not mean to scare you.”
Laughing it off, you shook your head and pulled yourself together. “It’s fine, Halsin. Is there something you needed?”
He nodded, then. “I’d like to talk to you about something actually.” Nodding for him to continue, you watched as the man who stood strong in the face of everything you had faced together became somewhat nervous, though no less serious.
“I never quite realized how burdened I was, until I met you. The threat of the shadow curse, the politics of the grove.” He trailed off for a moment before regaining his words as you tried to figure out where this conversation was leading. “I was forgetting who I was, but you lifted the fog. Thank you”
You smiled, softly. It seemed everyone in camp had a habit of thanking you for things they did all on their own, albeit with a little support. “I wouldn’t claim to be responsible for all of the things you’ve accomplished, but you’re welcome nonetheless.”
At your words, he laughed lightly in what seemed to be disbelief. “You’re too modest. I wager you don’t even know how extraordinary you truly are. But I do.” Your heart felt as if it had stuttered in your chest. He wasn’t implying… Was he? “I have lived a very long time. I have taken many lovers. My heart does not stir lightly, but it does now.”
Oh. He was. A thousand thoughts swam through your head. Thoughts of Halsin and the moments between the two of you at the party after the grove, of the feelings you had felt grow slightly at his willingness to risk everything, do anything, in order to remove the curse over the shadowlands and restore Thaniel to his former self. “What are you saying, exactly?” Your words came out in a shocked breath, no doubt picked up on by the man before you.
“I want more than to fight by your side, or to sit around a campfire with you.” His hands reached out slowly and hesitantly for yours. “I want to lay with you under the stars and feel your skin against mine. And I think you feel the same way, but tell me I’m wrong and the matter can rest. I do not wish to sour our friendship, but I have to know if it can be something more.”
With a slow sigh, you closed your hands around Halsin’s, thoughts ultimately landing on Astarion and the connection the two of you shared. “I won’t lie and tell you that I don’t feel as you do. Your kindness and resilience in all we’ve faced has allowed you to grow on me in a way that I never thought possible.” You could see the deep breath Halsin took in, and knew that even if you did not share in his desires as much as he did, it would hurt you just as much. “But, I’m with Astarion. Mind, body, and soul. Had we met under different circumstances, or had things gone differently, I may have indulged in such sentiments. But I can’t, and truly no matter how I feel towards you, I don’t want to.”
Your hands clutched his tighter, determined to let him down as easily as you possibly could. Halsin was a great man, and he deserved great things. “I know that if I wanted, you would be okay with sharing. The whole ‘as nature intended’ thing,” the two of you shared a laugh. “But Astarion means the world to me, and even if he was okay with it, I wouldn’t feel comfortable sharing myself in that way with someone else knowing that it is his heart I live for.”
Slowly, an understanding smile appeared on Halsin’s face, and his words made the weight of guilt and sadness fly off of your shoulders. “I understand. It is true that I would never ask for you to leave Astarion, nor would I have held you without his consent, but I understand my ideals are not for everyone.” He paused for a moment, squeezing your hands back before releasing them fully. “I am happy that you have found someone you wish to share yourself with in that way. Thank you, for allowing me this moment.”
“Of course, Halsin.” He nodded in goodbye before making his way back over to his tent and slipping inside.
The moon rose quickly, and a fire was kept going by Gale. As all of the others began filing back into camp, excited from things bought and people met within the city, you still could not get your conversation with Halsin out of your head.
Quickly getting up from the fire and grabbing one of the two bags Astarion carried, you brushed your hand against his with the intention of holding it, giving him the opportunity to pull away and smiling brightly when he fully slipped his hand into yours. His tent, as always, was welcoming and warm. Filled with tattered books and the finest blankets and pillows he could get his hands on up until this point, it was no surprise when he pulled out a very nice looking quilt and matching fluffy pillow set that had no doubt cost a fortune, if he even bought them at all.
You sat down, watching as he moved his newly procured items to the exact spot he wanted them in. Chuckling lightly in an almost nervous manner, you disrupted the quiet in favor of getting what happened earlier off of your chest. Not that you had done anything wrong, but it still felt odd for him not to know, given all the things he did know about you due to the many nights spent watching the stars and talking about anything and everything you could. “You wouldn’t believe the conversation I had with Halsin today.”
Your voice came out low, meant for the two of you only, and you watched as Astarion froze for a moment before bursting into laughter. “I was wondering when you were going to ask me about this.” Your confusion was clear as day, and in voicing this, you were only left more confused. “I guessed! The man can’t stay quiet about ‘enjoying the freedom of nature’s gifts’. I bet he’d outlaw clothing if he could.”
Letting out a laugh at his impression of the local druid, Astarion smirked to himself before continuing to move everything around so that his tent was just right. “Wait, so, you’d be okay? If I…” You trailed off, uncertain.
“I’m happy for you to have as much Halsin as you wish, far be it from me to hold your hunger against you. I just have one question, before you go off with him-” Your mind began to spin, as light as the conversation seemed to have been, he hadn’t even given you a chance to tell him what truly happened. He had no doubt that you said yes? “This isn’t because… We haven’t… In a while? Is it?”
His pace in readjusting his belongings finally came to slow down as he said this, intently watching you for a reaction.
“What? No!” Astarion let out a small breath of relief, and before he could continue with what he was about to say, you cut him off. “And slow down, for gods sake. I told him no.”
Astarion’s facial expressions shifted so fast you could barely keep up. “You... said no?”
Nodding, you let a soft smile take over your features. You reached for him, pulling him down towards you and forcing him to sit in front of you. “I said no. I told him that even if you were comfortable with it, I wasn’t. Because I only want you.”
You let your words sink in, holding onto both of his hands and waiting for some kind of response. “Oh. I mean,” he paused. “Oh.” 
“Astarion,” you reached your hand up and placed it lightly on his cheek, forcing him to look you in the eyes. “I need you to listen to me, very carefully.” His eyes widened slightly. “Sex? Doesn’t matter to me. If we never had sex again it would be okay with me, so long as we were still together. Holding your hand, kissing you, cuddling, just… just talking with you, existing with you, is enough for me. Because I’m not with you for your body, or even your face, even if it is a really really pretty face. I’m with you because of you, because of who you are and the way you make me feel. Your smile, your laugh, your wit, those pesky morals you’ve been developing recently,” you let out a giggle. “Sex with you would be great, if and only if you are comfortable with it.”
It was silent for a moment, before Astarion finally spoke up. “And what if I’m never comfortable with it.”
The waver in his voice was almost enough to make you burst into tears at that very moment. “Then that’s okay.” You brushed your thumb across his cheek. “I love you, Astarion. That’s why I’m with you. I choose to be with you because I am in love with you. Sex has nothing to do with that.”
His eyes fluttered close as you spoke those words, his head leaning ever so slightly into the palm of your hand. 
After a few minutes of silence between the two of you, you spoke again. “I’m going to go head out to the fire and get a nice spot ready to eat with the rest of them. Come and join me when you’re ready.” Shifting to get up, you planted a soft kiss onto his forehead and lightly brushed your fingers through his hair before stepping out of the tent and leaving him to process the moment you two had shared.
You sent smiles to your friends as you took up your usual spot around the fire, thanking Gale as he handed you a bowl of freshly cooked soup. Eventually, you felt the familiar hands of your partner slide around your waist and pull you onto his lap.
Setting your empty bowl aside, you smiled at the faintest sound of an “I love you” lingering in the air, so soft you almost didn’t hear it. You whispered it back and laid against him, relaxing into his arms.
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tugoslovenka · 6 months
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i love baldur's gate 3, truly i do. i find it one of the most wonderful games in recent times and the work that larian has done in trying to emulate a dnd-like video game is commendable bc they have done some good work with the lore and mechanics. but i really, really would like it if larian would for once in their goddamned fucking existence released a full game on launch day. i know games will always need patches to address some issues, but releasing info abt the upper city as a hub area weeks before release only to completely scrap the idea altogether? having NO ending, literally no actual epilogue or anything that adds to the story after the fight, just this random black screen and no proper epilogue? the half-baked encounters against orin and gortash after making them out to be on the same level ketheric's fight which actually felt like a boss? making dark urge this entire ~special origin story without actually allowing a player to do a true evil run without losing out on like 2/3 content? there is no punishment or reward for not taking/taking the tadpoles, it literally means nothing in the grand scheme of things. also for a multiplayer game, there's a resounding lack of actual story progression if you have all four slots covered, like it straight up locks you out of a lot of companions' stories bc you can never take them with you. this isn't even getting into the horrendous bugs and performance issues that straight up fry PCs by the end of the game. also adding fan service without any actual plot like - halsin's completely useless existence in act 3? also nonsense like gortash being lorded in the middle of wyrm's rock, the literal first fortress to the city that would not house the new lord of baldur's gate under any circumstance? gale starts the game with a TRUE RESURRECTION scroll that can be used to solve a myriad of problems, including, i dont know, curing karlach entirely by killing her then reviving her? having to go to cazador's palace through a random tower in the middle of the city? the emperor just deciding to abandon you and join the elder brain after spending years fighting its influence if you decide to go against him? like these are all unfinished parts to a "full" game. i still have nightmares from DOS2 and what a fucking mess that was and the fact that you need the "definitive edition" to make the final act work is straight up predatory... honestly fuck y'all for making ppl pay twice for the product they should have gotten the first time. anyway the game is great but larian needs a kick up the ass for some obvious bullshit that would not be tolerated if it were any other studio!
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dancingbirdie · 6 months
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Hello there! I adore your fics and how you wrote Astarion! I was hoping you could write something around the succubus scene? I know you get comforted by Astarion later on in the game regarding it, but due to his own trauma and backstory I would have liked to see him stand up for Tav and protect them during that scene itself, instead of just standing by while Tav is being manipulated 🙈
If you could do something around that, it would heal me! 😂🙏
Hi, anon! I hope you enjoy. I really liked your prompt, but I'll admit it did get a bit darker than I had originally thought I'd write it.
Please take note of the content warnings before you read! As always, comments and reacts are appreciated.
No Self-Sacrifices
Rating: Mature
Pairing: Astarion x gn!Reader/Tav
Word Count: 1.7K
Warnings/Tags: Discussion/description of dissociation, implied sexual assault, mentions of Astarion's past, descriptions of violence, blood, mild gore, death, angst.
*****
“Why don’t we play a game?” the Raphael-look-alike called to you seductively from the ridiculously lavish bed. “You win, I give you everything you desire. But you’ll enjoy yourself more if you lose.”
Astarion began to sense that all too familiar, uneasy feeling coiling itself tight inside his chest. The premonition that something was about to go utterly, horribly wrong. He risked a glance toward your allies, Lae’zel and Halsin, but they appeared just as woefully confused as you did. As if you all weren’t aware of the trap you’d just walked into. 
“What’s the game?” he heard you ask. He could feel the hairs standing up on the back of his neck.
“It’s a surprise! Off with your clothes,” the devil commanded.
There could be no doubt as to what would take place. Surely, Astarion thought, none of his companions could be so blind as to not see what was about to happen. 
Astarion watched as you bit your lip, hesitating. How you looked wildly about the room, as if you were searching for any last-minute way to avoid this. With his preternatural senses, he couldn’t help but be aware of how your heart rate spiked to a frenzied pulsing as you stood there, terrified of what was to come. 
He watched in horror as your shoulders slumped almost imperceptibly. Defeated. Resolving to go through with this. And as you began removing your clothes, his vision turned nearly as red as the fiend on the mattress before you. 
“Good, little thief, good,” the monster crooned, totally unaware of Astarion’s brewing rage. “Keep going like this, and you’ll get to live. You’ll be crying out my name soon, you’d better know it. I am Haarlep, Raphael’s personal incubus…” 
The incubus - Haarlep - prattled on while Astarion continued to seethe with barely-contained fury. His fingers twitched, itching – almost of their own accord – to reach for the crossbow strapped to his back. He began shifting back and forth on the balls of his feet, restless. He caught the glare Lae’zel was leveling at him from his periphery and turned his head slightly to meet it. 
She gave a slight, but obvious, shake of the head. A silent command to stand down. Then he felt the tadpole squirm in his brain, while a voice that was distinctly Lae’zel’s echoed in his mind. 
Don’t act rashly, vampire. We need to gather more information before we strike.
Astarion nearly laughed aloud. The audacity of this Githyanki, willing to let her comrade be violated in such a way. After all they had done for her. For this party. And yet, part of him knew he shouldn’t be so surprised. After all, he had known plenty of “heroes” who had let equally horrible fates befall others without so much as lifting a finger to help them. 
“It matters not to me.” Your deadened reply to Haarlep brought Astarion back to the present moment. He recognized that tone of voice. Knew when someone was trying to dissociate. To disconnect their mind from their body. He knew all too well what that feeling was like. And it was nearly as horrible to watch as it was to experience it for himself.
“Very well, I will be Raphael himself,” Haarlep continued. “All of him. Now, on the bed. Lie back.” 
Astarion made his decision when he saw you begin to take stilted steps toward the bed. Covering yourself with your hands, trying to maintain some modicum of modesty as you climbed up. 
With Haarlep’s attention solely on you, he reached behind him for the crossbow. His index finger felt for the trigger as he pulled it around before him. One swift flick, and an arrow was suddenly lodged in the incubus’ left pectoral.
Chaos erupted as imps suddenly appeared throughout the room, responding to Haarlep’s distressed cry. You toppled off the bed, head knocking onto the floor, as the fiend raged above you, trying to right themselves and extract the arrow from their chest. 
“Tsk’va,” Lae’zel cursed in Gith, hefting her sword over her shoulder and barreling toward the first enemy in sight. “To battle it is, then!” 
Halsin shifted quickly into his bear shape and let loose a formidable roar, charging for another group of imps across the room. 
But Astarion only had eyes for Haarlep. He stalked slowly toward the bed, unsheathing the twin blades from his back as he did so. 
You watched as he gave one brief, wicked smile before utter carnage ensued.
*****
“Kainyak! Your foolishness nearly cost us all our lives,” Lae’zel spat venomously toward Astarion while she wiped her blade free of the fetid black imp blood. “I should strike you down now for acting with such stupidity.”
To his credit, Astarion barely seemed to acknowledge the Githyanki’s formidable censuring. You watched as he slipped his daggers back into the sheaths at the small of his back and readjusted his armor. He picked up his crossbow and shook it free of blood before strapping it back between his shoulder blades.
“You still have all your limbs intact, Lae’zel,” he replied airly. It was a stark contrast to the way he was standing, body as taut as a bowstring. “And wasn’t that bloodshed so much more satisfying than watching the incubus violate our dear party leader?” 
Lae’zel’s mouth snapped shut, but she continued to glare. The vampire had a point, though she was loath to admit it. 
“I, for one, prefer this outcome to the alternative that was before us,” Halsin agreed, rising from where he had been crouched after dismissing his ursine form. He glanced your way but averted his eyes quickly, to your confusion. 
“Best get dressed, darling,” Astarion drawled, coming over to where you still lay prone on the floor. “As delicious as I find your birthday suit to be, I’d wager you’ll fare better in this wretched place with a little more clothing on.” 
He held out a hand to help you rise to your feet. You observed him cautiously, trying to discern the emotion behind his carefully schooled expression. 
“Why?” you whispered. 
He squinted at you, one brow quirked. “Are you seriously asking me why armor is prudent to have on, in a place like this?” He chuckled before adding, “gods, you must’ve smacked your head harder than I thought.”
“No,” you retorted, refusing to be deterred by his cheeky banter. “I mean, why did you attack Haarlep? You’re never one to be spoiling for a fight.”
Astarion scoffed, pressing a hand to his chest as if insulted. “Careful, darling. You’re almost making me out to be a pacifist.”
“You know what I meant, Astarion,” you grumbled as you began donning your leather breeches and jerkin. 
“And would you have preferred to be fucked by that incubus instead?” Astarion bit out derisively. 
Your head whipped up to meet his gaze, hearing the sudden change in his tone. 
“Of course not,” you scowled. “But you could sense how powerful they were. It seemed like the only way to ensure your all’s safety.”
Astarion grimaced. “So you would have just laid down and taken it? For us?”
“I’m not saying I would have enjoyed it,” you hissed. “But to keep you safe? Keep them safe?” you gestured to Lae’zel and Halsin across the room, polishing and re-polishing their weapons as they attempted not to overhear your barely-whispered argument. 
“Of course,” you concluded, voice resolute. 
“Don’t be a fucking martyr. Not for me. Not for them. Not for anyone,” Astarion growled. 
Your brows shot toward your hairline in surprise. 
“We know what we signed up for when we joined this rag-tag group,” he continued, tone icy. “I’d rather fight a hundred fiends than watch you debase yourself to save anyone, including myself.” 
You let loose a mirthless laugh, feeling angry, embarrassed and too completely exposed. Before you could think better of it, your retort was flying past your lips. 
“You know, Astarion, you have a fucking funny way of showing appreciation for your partner who was willing to be violated in order to keep you safe.” 
It was the wrong thing to say. You immediately knew it, and so did the rest of the party. Suddenly it was like the air had been sucked from the room. 
Crimson eyes bored into your own as Astarion took a step forward to meet you, chest to chest. You glared up at him, refusing to back down. Refusing to be chastised for your willingness to protect him. 
The shared air between you was charged. You could almost feel the electricity surging. 
“Need I remind you? I’ve been violated enough times over the past 200 years to know how unequivocally monstrous it is,” he intoned, his voice pitched dangerously low. “I will promise you this. I am finished with having it happen to me, in front of me, or for me.”
Words escaped you. It was all you could do to maintain eye contact with him, feeling the conviction in his tone. The anger that had sustained you up until this point had all but disappeared. In its place was something far more demure. 
“So yes, I fired the first shot that pierced that devil’s skin. Then I eviscerated their neck with my teeth,” he crooned, reverently tucking a lock of hair behind your ear. You shivered at his touch, at his dulcet tone that was describing such violence. 
“And I slit his throat with glee,” he continued, cupping your cheek in his palm. “I would do it again. And again. And again. Because I will never witness abuse like what was about to happen, ever again.”
He swept the pad of his thumb over the hollow under your eye, his gaze flicking rapidly over your face. As though he were subconsciously checking you over for any nicks, cuts, or bruises. 
“Do you understand?” he whispered softly. His voice was still laced with rage, but you could tell it was not directed toward you. Really, it never had been. 
The entire situation had obviously touched the most sensitive pressure point within him. Had triggered his urge to fight, to protect, to resist. You couldn’t be angry with him for that. Never. Not one bit. 
You gulped before nodding slightly. “I understand now. I’m sorry.”
You lifted your hand to cover his where it was still cupping your face. Turning slightly, you planted a kiss against his palm. 
“No self-sacrificing on my watch, darling, agreed?” he murmured, wrapping his other arm around your waist in a solid embrace. 
“Agreed,” you confirmed, returning his embrace before venturing on through the House of Hope.
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bunnys-kisses · 2 months
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teacher's pet - halsin silverbough
pairing: halsin silverbough x fem!reader rating: 18+ tags: pwp, apprentice!reader, master/pupil relationship, smut, 2.3k words, multiple positions, a small fic a/n: partially inspired by this post by @chiwhorei
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  To join with Halsin was not something you expected to happen. You were quite content with being his apprentice in the Grove. But, when he decided to join the party to find out more about the tadpoles, you were taken away on the adventure too.
At first it was hard to be away from home, you often missed it quite dearly. But Halsin was there to comfort you during the early period of your journey.
  ”We will return before you know it.“ He said as he placed you in his lap and rubbed your head with his large hand. He wiped away the stray tears and even joked that you'd become a hero. That made you smile a little.
You, a hero? It was almost comical. You bloomed under his attention and care, he still made sure that you were kept up to date with your studies. When he returned to camp, he often asked you questions about what you had been reading that day.
  ”You have to keep your mind sharp, you know.“ He said, ”Now, why don't you try again with that question?”
But with time, his touches lingered longer. His gaze held yours more often. He often found himself touching parts of you while at camp. He especially loved placing his hand on the small of your back and guiding you around. After all, you were meant to learn everything from him.
He told you that he could never imagine leaving you behind at Emerald Grove. You were meant to be his side, after all that was why he picked you to be his apprentice. Even though he had many throughout his life, there was none like you.
  “So curious.” He once said, “So kind.” He wanted to reach out for you, but stopped himself. He had to maintain a hard line between apprentice and pupil.
But in all fairness, it didn't take long for the line to become blurred. Those back at the Grove wouldn't know if he touched your back or got a good smell of your hair as you walked by. They wouldn't know that he had one more than on occasion pleasured himself to thoughts of you.
He wondered if you had any lovers, if a man had ever touched you. Not that he was the most possessive man, but he was curious if he had to teach you more than just healing.
He wondered how you tasted, how you sounded when you reached climax. How hot your body would run if he pleasured you in just the right way. There were many questions that all made him wonder if he'd ever get an answer or would they be simple ideas that wracked his brain when he was alone.
He stood close to six feet and five inches. He made you feel so small, even with the encouraging smiles. He knew that, he knew that you'd always be so much smaller than him. But that was alright, he was your teacher after all. Which meant that he was assigned to protect you when the wilderness outside the Grove became too powerful for you.
And of course, you'd be there to bandage his wounds. One time you were applying bandages and he got a good look at your cleavage. He wondered if such a smaller woman could become as powerful as him. He held a need to protect you, even from himself.
But he was often lost in thought about you. You were the same way. And like a strong magnet, you came together in a night of heated passion. Then another one soon after that, then another one after that. Soon it became a frequent occurrence.
  “I'm doing this to train you further, you should be able to perform under pressure.” But in reality he loved how you squirmed on his cock and he loved dumping his seed deep into you.
  “Of course, master.” You blushed, “I want to learn everything you know!”
He smiled and patted your head, “ Of course, little one. Now come here before the others come back.” Then patted his lap.
-
It was another long day, night had crossed the sky. Most of the party was asleep except for you and Halsin. You had waited in the dark until Halsin moved from his bed roll and went into the forest. You followed soon after him like a puppy dog.
He heard you following him and turned around to look at you. You picked up the pace and got closer to him. He wrapped an arm around your shoulders and pulled you close to him. Your face was up against his side as he led you further into the woods.
You felt excitement to your core as eventually you two found a familiar clearing to have your nightly activities. You felt a heat pool in your gut as you exited the thickness of the woods.
He let go of you and you walked closer to the nearby river. His gaze caught the sight of your ass as you swayed your hips from side to side. He chuckled to himself, “Teasing me, aren't you?”
You looked at him, “No, sir.” And yelped when he closed the gap between you two and grabbed you by the ass. He squeezed the cheek and leaned down to kiss you to silence you.
Your legs became like jelly as you melted into his kiss. He knew exactly how to make you weak. You had trained so hard to have zero weakness! Yet, your master was the one who left you so weak and vulnerable.
When he pulled away,  he took you by the hand and led you up on the boulders that lined the river. He began to undress you slowly, it was like opening a present. He had seen you naked before, but this was something else. To see you up so close.
He kept you in his large lap as he pulled your clothes off of you. His callused hands grabbed your breasts. He pulled at your nipples gently over your thin bra before he took that off too. Your naked body was exposed to the warm air of the night.
  “You look divine, my apprentice. I wish I could have done this sooner. To taste you, to have you.” He dipped his head to kiss at your neck. You reached behind you to grab onto his hair.
He continued to play with your breasts, he listened closely to the sounds that you made. His covered erection rubbed against your back.
  “Do you want me, little one? Do you want to feel me inside of you.” He pulled at your nipples once more, “Because I want to feel every inch of you.” His voice was low and hot, it made heat curl in your stomach.
  “Please, sir. Take me.” You whined in response. You did everything you could to keep your voice low. You didn't want your passionate cries to be heard from camp.
He chuckled, “Of course, anything for my little apprentice.” Then picked you up with ease and placed you down beside him. He slowly began to take off his clothes, careful not to toss them into the river by accident.
You blushed at the sight of fuzz on his body and the strength of his muscles. You often joked that he looked like the bear he turned into, and he said that you'd make a cuter cub. Which only made your ears grow hotter.
Once he was naked,  he man-handled you like you weighed nothing and got you settled back into his lap. He pushed hair away from your face and buried his face in your neck as he moved you so you could be seated on his cock.
You held onto your knees as you felt the stretch of your pussy around his cock. You held your breath and reminded yourself to breathe as you sank on his length. When you were fully seated on it, it felt like it was in your throat.
He was big, but it only made sense considering his proportions. He was a large man with a cock big enough to make anyone feel small.  You slowly rolled your hips to get more adjusted to his size. You puffed out your cheeks for a moment as you tried to move up and down his length.
He groaned into your heated skin as he held you in his arms. You could feel the hair on his chest against your heated back. You panted and moaned but tried your best to keep your noises down to a minimum. When you became used to his size inside of you, you felt the wash of pleasure over your heated body.
  “Halsin, ah!” You whined as you began to move faster.
He chuckled and kissed at your neck, “That's it. Such a good apprentice. You're an amazing learner. But you still have a lot to learn.”
  “Ah, sir!” You squeaked as you felt his cock bully your cervix. Of course you'd end up with the man with the largest cock at camp. Not only was he your teacher, but also your lover.
  “I feel like I should be quizzing you now.” He laughed, “There's a lot you can learn while being intimate with a man.” He kissed your neck and held you close to him.
You felt your brain practically leak out of your ear. You let him take control of rutting up into you. You reached behind yourself and held onto him as you rode him. Your heart hammered in your chest as the sounds of your fucking filled the nighttime air.
His hands were back on your breasts as he played with your hard nipples. His breath was hot against your already heated skin.
  “Please, Halsin.” You whimpered as you felt his cock hit more of your sweet spot. You felt your toes curl as you tried to relax against your lover.
  “I know, I know. You feel so good. I can't get enough of you. Since the moment I saw you, I knew you were destined to be mine. Now I have you all to myself. To love, to be with.” He said as he thrusted up into you.
You moaned and arched your back away from your teacher. He held onto your hips to guide you up and down his length. Every hard thrust felt like a blow to the gut. It left you breathless. With his heated pants against your shoulder you felt like you were in a state of euphoria.
You kicked out your legs as you felt a sting of pleasure run up your spine and the heat bloom in your chest. Your head started to feel hazy from the intense feeling. You cling to your lover as he thrusted up into you. His large frame behind you made you feel so tiny and vulnerable.
  “My sweet apprentice. You always know how to repay me for my teachings.” He remarked with a slight joke to his voice, “You know how to drive me wild.” He said as if he didn't try to have sex with you weeks earlier while in his bear form.
Your body bounced against his thrusts and you held onto him harder for some stability. Everything felt loose on your body and your brain felt gooey and soft like honey. He had a way with you that you couldn't define into words.
  “Please, Halsin.” You whimpered, “Please, sir.”
  “Of course, little one.” He then positioned you on your hands and knees, facing the river before you as he thrusted into you at a different angle. You were so easy to move, he could put you into whatever position he needed you in.
Now with a deeper angle, you felt like your womb was in your throat from how hard he was thrusting up into you. He groaned as he continued to move his hips. He pushed you further into the rock under you. Your hips were tilted at an angle that he got to the deepest parts of you. If he was hitting against your cervix prior, he was for sure doing so now.
Your eyes rolled back and the orgasm took you by surprise. You gripped onto him as you arched your back once more. You felt sweaty but at the peak of your pleasure as you climaxed around his heavy cock.
  “Good girl.” He said with affection in his tone. He continued to thrust into you. He gave it his all as he held onto your hips, he watched your ass move with each one of his hard strokes.
He licked his lips and leaned in to give your back a nice string of hickies. You were just too perfect in that state, with your nose pressed against the cool rock. To fuck out in the wild was a blessing, to share the sight of your pleasure with nature.
You were divine, his little student. He was going to make sure that you learned everything he could offer. Then maybe, if you agreed too, he'd make you his wife. But until then a little pleasure went a long way.
It wasn't the most conventional,  but he didn't mind.  You'd make a great woman for the rest of his days. With a few more thrusts of his hips, he finished inside of you with a loud groan.
You two slowed down as the slowness of post orgasmic bliss took over. He pulled out of you and pulled you into his arms. He kissed your face before you turned in his arms. The sight of you aroused him once more.
You giggled a bit before you ran a finger across his slick cock. You whispered, “Let me help you, sir. I see you still have a bit of a problem.”
The chuckle came from deep in his chest, “Of course. Help your teacher, please.” He knew he'd be falling asleep with his cock nestled in your sweet sex.
Such a teacher's pet.
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raygunny · 7 months
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Tav's Name
Word count: 661
The party finds out that 'Tav' is actually just a nickname. She refuses to tell them what it's short for, which is very unlike her. Cue the burning curiosity from the whole camp. Everyone approaches her in their own way.
Karloch tries the direct approach - essentially bugging Tav throughout the day. 'Just checking if you want to tell me now', she says with a grin each time. Reassuring Tav that if it's embarrassing, she'll try her best not to laugh. It's all in good fun though, no real pressure. She just likes teasing Tav about it at this point.
Wyll keeps throwing out names like she's Rumpelstiltskin. He starts out strong with 'Octavia', but towards the end of the day he's really scraping the bottom of the barrel. Tav's not sure why he's even trying this strategy - she already told him she wouldn't confirm or deny his guesses. She suspects that he and Gale made some sort of bet to see who can figure it out first. He finally gives up when he wholeheartedly guesses, 'Tavern?'
Speaking of Gale, he keeps trying to casually bring it up in conversation. 'You know, I was reading a fascinating book the other day about the power of names. I'd be remiss if I didn't offer to look yours up - if you wanted to of course. Our little secret', he says with a wink. He's so bad at being casual. She just shakes her head at each worsening attempt, it almost makes her want to tell him out of pity. Or to get him to stop pestering her, she's not quite sure.
Astarion thinks to himself, how could I have missed this? - followed up by - and why won't she tell us? Between the two of them, he's the one that's usually keeping secrets - not the other way around. How very intriguing. He tries to charm it out of her, 'I just want to know what name to call out next time we have a little midnight rendezvous', he says with that charming smirk on his face. When she dodges all his tricks and refuses to budge, that's...irritating to say the least. He can't stop thinking about her though, well her name that is. Ahem.
Shadowheart is not really all that interested in trying to coax out Tav's secrets. As a follower of Shar, she respects the secrets of others. And if Tav isn't telling them, then it must be for a reason. That still doesn't stop her from at least trying. 'I would share one of my secrets if you share yours', she says late at night when it's just the two of them by the fire. It's unlike her, but she's grown very fond of Tav. She can spare one small secret, she tells herself.
Lae'zel really couldn't care less about what Tav's full name is. Nickname or not - the only important thing is that Tav responds when Lae'zel yells her name out in battle. After watching the group pester her all day, she doesn't even ask. Though, that doesn't mean she hasn't been keeping an ear out when the others have made their attempts.
Halsin, the respectful yet smooth guy he is, tells her with a soft smile, 'While I am quite curious and would love to hear what I'm sure is a very lovely name, I am perfectly content with whatever you feel comfortable sharing with me. Tav suits you well after all'. That almost gets it out of her, but she stays resolute. She can't give in so easily. Perhaps another night, she thinks.
There are no dark secrets or skeletons in the closet for Tav, but it does turn out Wyll was right - her first name is actually Tavern. She's always found it a little embarrassing, but it's not her fault that she was born in one and her folks just ran with it. She'll hold onto this secret till a day where she knows they all need a morale boost. She's sure she'll never hear the end of it.
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petit-etoile · 7 months
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Congrats on 200 followers! :D For drabble ideas, how about one where Tav is becoming overwhelmed from being the leader of their group and they end up having a bit of a breakdown in camp, so Astarion whisks them away and dotes on them for the evening to help soothe some of their worries.
i  am  tired  of  being  brave
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pairing: astarion/tav wordcount:  1,036 content warnings: none other tags: canon compliant, introspection, character study, idiots in love, established relationship, gender neutral tav, human!tav archiveofourown: here.
tag list: @azrielshadows1nger, @pandimoostuff, @faevi, @microskies, @foreverthemaraudersera, @queenofthespacesquids, @claryvoyantfray, @6doodlaang14, @anne-isnotokay, @itshimbotime, @yeeteth-the-raven, @sessils,@8-opossums, @worryknotdear, @abirdaboxandachippedcup, be added to the taglist here
summary: All you want is to get away from everything. Astarion indulges you.
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‘Enough!’ you shout.
Lae’zel and Shadowheart have the decency to look properly chagrined when they peer over at you, frozen as if turned to stone. Shadowheart’s knife dips underneath Lae’zel’s chin, but the pretense of applied pressure goes away. You have no idea what hour it is or how long they’ve been going at it but the little patience you have snaps like a fine thread.
‘We have only gotten this far because we trust each other,’ you snap at them, pulling your nightshirt tighter around your shoulders. ‘But if you want to ruin that, leave me out of it!’
In what is likely the silliest mistake to make, you turn around and march to your bedroll to pick up your hunting knife and then march beyond the outskirts of camp  —  beyond Halsin and Jaheira and Gale and Wyll and Karlach, and Withers who seems to be musing over the situation with faint interest.
If Shadowheart and Lae’zel want to fight to the death, let them! You’ve done all that you can to get the group this far. You’re tired, you’ve been woken up two nights in a row, and you’ve had it with the drama.
You plunge yourself through the nearest bush you can find and sit next to running water, your arms pulled across your chest to keep the breeze from chilling you to the bone. You’re miserable beneath the moonlight. You can’t remember the last time you’ve slept more than four hours.
You almost doze off in the underbrush beneath a tree, but then there’s a hand sliding over your mouth and a body behind yours, somehow wedged behind you once your eyes closed. You gasp and try to reach for your knife, but Astarion tuts and continues sliding between you and the tree. It would be annoying if you weren’t relieved it was him. You relax back against him despite the feeling that your heart is going to leap out of your throat.
‘You shouldn’t fall asleep in the woods,’ Astarion warns you. ‘There are terrible beasts that have made this place their hunting ground.’
You shiver. ‘I didn’t mean to fall asleep,’ you say. ‘I just needed to get away.’
He hums. ‘Did something happen back at the camp?’
It doesn’t do any good to keep secrets, and your other companions had already witnessed it. You tell Astarion about Lae’zel and Shadowheart’s never ending fight. It doesn’t make sense to keep attacking one another, especially since the Artefact is the only reason the worms haven’t burrowed deeper into your skulls. It wears you down every day to keep making decisions for everyone when there are people with better experience. Everyone looks to you no matter how much you wish they’d look elsewhere. You never wanted this fellowship to hang on your every word. You just wanted allies.
‘It’s hardly fair,’ Astarion agrees. ‘To have the weight of this…Absolute sitting on your shoulders. I can’t imagine what it must be like to wrangle us all into cohabitation.’
‘Some discomforts are easier to resolve than others,’ you say. ‘It was easy making everyone throw their stakes away.’
‘I’m fairly certain Wyll kept his,’ Astarion snorts.
‘Yes, but he doesn’t wake us all up holding it at your neck,’ you say, elbowing him. ‘They don’t have to become friends or lovers or anything of the sort. They just have to get along until we arrive at Baldur’s Gate.’
Baldur’s Gate still seems so very far away. Acknowledging this drags you down more than you wish it to. You’re tired of walking and fighting and lying your way out of every other conflict. You miss your family and your life before the worm. The only good that’s come of it is Astarion. He lets you lounge on him when you please in exchange for some blood, and…
It’s more than that.
Astarion lets you do whatever the hell you please as long as it doesn’t annoy him. You’re free to nap in his tent or sit at his side while he reads, and he’s even allowed you to style his delicate curls with pomade. He lets you kiss him if you ask, holds your hand. If you asked him to kill someone for you, you’re certain he would without question.
Reluctantly, you sit forward. ‘I should probably head back,’ you admit. ‘I should make sure everyone is still alive.’
‘To the hells with it,’ Astarion disagrees. He wraps his arms around your waist and pulls you back. ‘You close your eyes and sleep. Let them come looking for us if it troubles them that much.’
‘And if Shadowheart kills Lae’zel?’
‘I’m almost certain Lae’zel would win,’ he says. ‘But, I have no doubt they’ll behave. You, on the other hand, are being naughty.’
You laugh but you do as you're told. You worm further in the roots and lean back against him. It’s chilly, but having someone else there does wonders for how willing you are to fall asleep. It’s almost nice how secluded you are away from the drama and stress. You almost wish you were a vampire so that you could sneak out and use hunting as an excuse.
The respect for all you do is nice. Sure, Halsin and Jaheira have both commended you for how hard you work for your age, but it isn’t the same. You still stand in the middle of camp trying to handle things on your own. The planning, the decisions. They somehow fall on your shoulders. A little more input would be nice, or a sign from a god that you’re doing the right thing. You try not to think about it as you feel sleep edge toward your consciousness. Astarion hums softly in your ear, and though it’s uneven, you can’t help but think it’s so off-tune that it’s lovely.
You yawn so hard your jaw pops, and Astarion hushes you, kissing idly behind your ear. It lulls you into an ease you haven’t experienced for a while. You melt into the touch. If you could purr, you would.
‘This,’ Astarion says, ‘is what you deserve. To relax here in my arms. Sleep now, and we’ll deal with what shall come in the morning.’
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fatale-distraction · 5 months
Text
BG3 Companions Social Media Headcanons Part 1
I was bored at work and couldn’t stop. 🤣 I’ll make another post with Halsin, Minthara, Jaheira, Minsc, and some NPCs!
~~~
Astarion - Pre-Tav, Astarion's social media is mostly thirst-traps for some kind of nefarious, Cazador-related money-making plot. They barely scoot past the TOS on lewd content. Very little real personal content, anything that isn't a thirst trap is heavily doctored lifestyle content to make it seem like he's living a much more luxurious life than he actually is.
After meeting Tav and getting rid of Cazador, he deletes all of his old accounts and opens up new ones. They're not exactly private, but he's much more careful about who he follows and who can follow him back. The posts become much more genuine. Still a lot of selfies, but they're sexy in the way of a guy just finally living his truth and being comfortable in his own skin. There's more shots of his daily life; waking up with his partner's obnoxious pets strewn across the bed, morning coffee and his current favorite book, new outfits that make him feel more himself. Tav features heavily in most of his posts, and there are probably as many pictures of them as there are of himself.
Karlach - chaos. No rhyme or reason. Lots of parkour and Jack-ass parodies. Constant flood of pictures of her stuffed animal collection. Stupid filters abound. There's several videos of her just flexing. Lumberjack videos. Seven hundred pictures of Tav, tons of selfies together. Videos of her literally sobbing over some cute stuffy she found or a dog she got to pet. "How many times can I say the fuck word before I get suspended." Memes. Memes everywhere.
Lae'zel - She follows three accounts and never posts anything, but somehow she's constantly scrolling through. What does she even do? Her profile picture is still the default. She doesn't have any profile information filled out. It just says "No." Her screen name is just Lae_zel. Every single item in her favorites is a cat video. She has One photo and its a gym selfie. All of her comments seem really mean at first, but they're all weirdly supportive things along the lines of "your teeth are sharp and your visage terrifying".
Shadowheart - total E-girl influencer vibe. Everything is #nofilter. She doesn't need filters. She's god's most perfect princess. You can't even be mad because it's not vanity its just how she Is. Ends everything with Prayer-hands-emoji hashtag Shar'sblessings or Selune'sblessings depending on where she is in that journey. Hairstyle and makeup tutorials and she makes it look so damn easy. "Dye my hair and cut my bangs with me." "Get ready with me" videos nearly every day. Every picture has a comment from Astarion that just says "oh fuck off" because even he can never hope to be as perfect as she is. Or at least that's what her forty-five thousand followers think.
Wyll - The official Blade of the Frontier social media account(s). Fencing videos and promos. "How to polish your horns for newbies" video that's been taken down twenty-seven times for lewd content even though it's literally for polishing actual horns. Accidental thirst traps because damn. Lots of disability advocacy, especially for visual impairments. Weekly Demon/Devil PSAs. Constantly featured in Karlach's vids and vice-versa. Buddy selfies. Once in a while a pic of him with his dad. Pics with Tav are rare, but when he does post them they're the sweetest pictures and he gushes about them for paragraphs. It's a little gross how gushy they are. Astarion comments with vomit emojis and Wyll just replies with an angry face emoji. The purest content. He's so wholesome. Not a swear to be seen. Lots of gentle hype videos. "You've got this. You can do this. I believe in you."
Gale - oh my god he has the most pretentious social media accounts. He's worse than Astarion. "Well, actually" videos with multiple parts because they're too long. Tea and bookshelves. Tara. So many pics of Tara. Tara napping on a book. Tara swatting a fly. Tara in the window. Tara on the kitchen counter. Tara laying in the sun. Tara doing nothing. He has one of those fancy cat terrarium backpacks. Magic tutorials. Mystra simp. Surprisingly few selfies but the ones he has are IMMACULATE. Pretentious book reviews. His only saving grace is that he is HILARIOUS. He's the only one with a reasonable about of pics with Tav as opposed to almost none or way too many, but the captions are always really sweet.
~~~
Part 2 here!
Part 3 here!
Part 4
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merrinla · 7 months
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Halsin's Sorrow from early access
The old datamine looks like an alternate universe. I find some parts of it much interesting than in the full release. The part of Isobel's death, when Halsin killed her in self defense, after she attacked him for unknown reasons. Then Ketheric unleashed the shadow curse. These events were mentioned in Halsin's diary. And it's really emotional.
---------- [This is an ancient notebook, whose ink is faded and pages are starting to crumble. It's not easy, but some words can still be made out.]
How do you describe events like these? An accident? A tragedy? The cruelty of fate?
It does not matter. Isobel is just as dead.
I can't remember what happened with any clarity. We were negotiating. She with [...] I led the druids. [...] words grew heated [...] threw the first punch. It was mayhem.
[...] stared at me, my glaive's blade buried in her stomach and shock in her eyes. I can't believe she wanted to hurt me. It was pure instinct - the heat of combat.
[...] washed the blood from my hands. My glaive was still there, coated in her blood, but something else felt different. There's a sickness in the blade. It seems cursed, but by whom? Selûne herself?
It is locked away now. I do not trust its power in the wrong hands. And I never want to see it again. ---------- In Ketheric, I see my errors made manifest. He did not fall - he was pushed. His grief was twisted by shadow, but none could deny my hand gave that grief shape. ----------
He gave the glaive the symbolic name Sorrow. And in the description it caused psychic damage to the one who used it. ---------- A heavy, cold energy clings to the glaive like the blood rusted to its blade. It fills your very being with regret
The wielder takes 1 Psychic damage whenever they deal damage using this blade. ----------
Halsin saw Ketheric not as an enemy, but as a victim of circumstances. After all, he knew what it was like to lose family (in theory). And he obviously blamed himself that his actions provoked such a chain of tragic events. Even if it wasn't intentional. But he also understood that Ketheric needed to be stopped and put an end to the curse. That was his motivation to join you.
So earlier he was more intertwined with the main plot of Act 2. And I can only imagine what emotional interactions this trio could get. How would Halsin react to seeing Isobel resurrected? What would Ketheric say to the person who took his daughter's life? And what would Halsin answer him?
In the release version if you kill Isobel, then during the audience you will have an interesting conversation with Ketheric. He will tell you the story of his family so that you understand what it cost him. Maybe this is a rewritten dialogue of the previous plot.
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Isobel also has cut content. Оriginally more scenes were planned with her. For example, in one of them she sang.
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Anyway, although this is no longer canon, I hope someday the developers will reveal new surprising details about what was left behind the scenes.
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aerynwrites · 5 months
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Whittle Mistakes
Halsin x GN!Reader
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A/N: Based off this Request. Hope you all enjoy this little fluffy piece!
Word Count: 1.2k
Warnings: small injury, magic healing, mostly pure fluff
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The afternoon is a mild one today, the usual heat giving way to a pleasantly cool breeze as you listen intently to Halsin’s instructions. 
You managed to convince the druid to show you how to whittle, a feat that actually took very little convincing in truth. Once you found out about his hobby, you’d been wanting to ask him to teach you. Not only because you are genuinely interested, but because you knew it’d give you an excuse to spend time with him away from the others. 
He’s been increasingly patient with you, bringing all of the supplies you both would need in order to take on this task. He even had small blocks of wood already prepared, and was now walking you slowly through the steps of what to do. 
He’d already shown you how to draw a rough shape of what you want to create on the sides of the wood with a small piece of charcoal, and now he was showing you the actual techniques of whittling. 
He holds the wood in one hand, and his knife in the other, large hands holding the tool steady as he slowly carved small slivers of wood away. 
“The key is to not cut away too much wood at once,” he says, as you lean over to watch from your seat next to him. “You can always cut more away, but you cannot put it back. Better to go slow.” 
You nod as you continue to watch him. You’re both sitting in a small clearing in the woods, Halsin having one leg propped up to support the arm holding the knife while the other lays comfortably out in front of him as he works. You sit right beside him, cross legged as you support the block of wood on one of your legs. 
“Okay,” you say, nodding. “Slow and steady wins the race.” 
Halsin smiles. “Precisely. Now,” he gestures to your block, “go ahead and start, let me know if you have any questions and I will also try to keep an eye on you if you need assistance. But there’s no better teacher than instinct, so just do what you think is best.” 
You nod as he turns back to his work, but don’t kiss the way his eyes flick back over to you as you pick up your knife. From everything he’s told you so far, it can’t be too hard, once you get to the intricate parts of the project it will be, but right now you’re just trying to get a general shape. 
What could go wrong? 
You start slowly, pressing the knife’s sharp edge against the wood and pulling it towards you slowly as you dutifully work to shave off more and more of the wood. Halsin is of course whittling a duck; but you’ve opted to try and carve a bear, wanting to give it to Halsin at the end. 
Silence falls over the clearing as you both work, only occasionally making small talk or commenting on one another’s work. It’s comfortable like this, a nice reprieve from everything happening around you all. 
You and Halsin have grown close over the past several weeks, and to say you were surprised when he expressed interest in you was an understatement. But you’d happily accepted, and as time went on, it feels like you both have known one another for years, falling into such a comfortable partnership that it never made you think twice. 
Even now, despite the silence, you’re content just being close to him and sharing something that he cares about. You’re happy to just be in his presence even if there’s no words passing between you. 
Soon, more defined shapes start to appear from your respective wood blocks, Halsin’s looking much more identifiable than yours. Taking a moment to look at your misshapen attempt at a bear, you realize its malformity is because of its head. You don’t seem to carve enough wood away to create a defined difference between the head and body. 
But as you try to do so, you find your knife slipping against the awkward angle. So, in an attempt to achieve your goal, you turn the wood in your lap, and move to run the knife away from your body, hoping the downward angle will help. 
You just start to push the knife when you see Halsin reach for you. 
“Be careful, my heart-“
His warning comes too late. Your knife slips from the woodblock, and with the pressure of you pushing down, you’re unable to react fast enough to stop the sharp blade from slicing into your leg where the wood rests. 
You cry out in surprise more than pain, but as the blood wells up from the shallow cut, the sharp sting makes itself known. 
Halsin is up and crouching in front of you before you can even blink, taking the knife and wood from you. The blade cut through the thin cotton of your pants, allowing you to see the wound clearly. It’s nothing serious and doesn’t seem too deep, but Halsin brows are creased with worry nonetheless. 
He reaches out for you, placing gentle hands on your thigh just around the wound, inspecting it quickly. 
“Halsin,” you say, reaching out to place a hand atop his own. “I’m fine, it’s just a little cut. Nothing some bandages won’t fix.” 
Your words fall on deaf ears, because before you can stop him, bright golden light glows beneath his palms and you watch as the wound closes up in the blink of an eye, the pain ebbing away until it’s gone completely. 
Halsin looks up at you then, eyes soft and you can’t help but let out a quiet huff. 
“You didn’t have to do that,” you say quietly as Halsin shifts closer, one hand coming to rest behind you as a smile tugs at his lips. 
“I could not very well leave you injured, what kind of partner would I be then?” 
You roll your eyes, but reach up to cup his cheek affectionately. “You’re such a mother hen, sometimes.” 
A small chuckle escapes him before his lips capture your own in a chast kiss. One your return happily before he pulls away. 
“I should have warned you not to carve away from yourself,” he says softly, moving back so he’s sitting in front of you once more, reaching for your now lumpy piece of wood. 
“It’s alrigh,” you assure him, taking your project from his hands as you pick up your knife once more. “I should have known that wouldn’t end well,” you admit, staring down at your sad excuse for a bear. “I was trying to make this look more like a bear but…I think it’s a lost cause.” 
Smiling Halsin shakes his head. “Do not give up, my heart. You can achieve whatever you set your mind to, even something as simple as whittling.” 
You laugh, and start to continue your work. “We’ll see about that.” 
The smile on his lips doesn’t leave as he takes up his position beside you once more, and this time, you shift to lean into his side as you work, smiling when you feel him press a kiss to the top of your head. 
“I love you,” you tell him. 
“And I love you more,” he replies. 
Then, the comfortable silence falls over you once more. The only sound being the gentle scraping of knives in wood as you both continue your work.
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