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nattosushi · 29 days

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Baldur's Gate 3 fan fiction: fan fic featuring @darkurgediaries' Lumina and her pictures

Disclaimer: the pictures are all taken from Dark Urge Diaries' tumblr. I just borrowed them as illustration for this story.

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Elora regarded Lumina as a friend. Upon waking up in the nautiloid, the other had offered to help and only showed curiosity at her heritage. It was the first time that she was not regarded as some sort of oddity or entertainment.

Lumina had faults, but until today, she was not a bad person.

It was not that she was a Bhaalspawn, but that she was in league with Gortash by being the willing accomplice and possible architect in this cruel plan where successes were the loss of life and freedom.

Even though Elora did not join the yelling, she found herself staying silent despite Lumina turning to her. For the first time, the other looked vulnerable.

Astarion pointed out that they were being too harsh, but Gale then snapped that it was not just one or two deaths, but the most vicious murder of many people who were simply at the wrong place at the wrong time.

"I…I am sorry." Lumina finally said, "But that person is not who I am. If there is anything I can do –"

"I think you have done enough." Gale said coldly.

"We should all take some rest," Elora decided, "We can…discuss this tomorrow."

With only a nod, Lumina turned and walked away. The other followed, until Elora was with alone with Halsin.

"I don't know what I should so," she admitted to him, as she wrapped her arms around him, "Even though she has lost her memories, she is still the person who killed so many."

Even in her home outside from Baldur's Gate was not immune to the tales of the killer that strike so swiftly and claimed so many lives. There were no discriminations in their targets, offering no clue to their motivation other then a desire for death.

"My heart, I think you need to spend some time away from all this. This is not your burden to bear." Halsin said gently as he picked her up in his arm.

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Whatever happened the night before was certainly a distraction enough, because Elora found herself waking up with no recollection. Despite the group having set camp outside Baldur's Gate, she seemed to be in the city. In addition, she was in the wild shape of a cat, curled up in the corner of a plush room.

Halsin's absence was a problem, but Elora decided that it would be best to deal with one issue at a time. As this building was clearly very crowded, it was best for her to stay in this form.

She bumped into a mass of silk and lace, tangling her claws. Even she was able to tell that this elaborate material was extremely expensive. One that even the most prized courtesan or pampered noble would have difficulty in purchasing.

There was only one person she could think of that would be able to obtain it very easily.

"What a lovely little creature!" the devil's wife chuckled as she picked Elora up.

Not only was Dahlia wearing a dressing gown that was barely knotted, her hair was completely loose. Saved for a single ring, the other was completely free from any of her usual numerous accessories.

"You are such an adorable little thing! Maybe you can be my companion today."

Planting a kiss on Elora's head, Dahlia shut the door and created a most dangerous cage.

Given what happened in their last meeting due to Lumina, Elora was sure that the only two people the other disliked more than her would be the Emperor and Lumina. Despite Dahlia's smile during their meal, Elora could still feel the rage from the other due to the assault on her mind. Once or twice, she even saw Raphael gently patting his wife's hand, as well as stroking her arm. She was sure that if it was not due to Raphael's desire for the crown, then Dahlia would have demanded more than a few words as apology.

"Where did you come from? You don't look feral, but who would abandon such an adorable little thing like you?" the other continued as she began to walk to one of the two doors in the elaborate quarter.

"Dahlia, who are you talking to?" Raphael called out, his voice contain no little irritation.

Elora decided that the bedroom was actually the safer choice, due to the possibility of bed sheets serving as additional covering. It was not that she was a prude, as satyrs were very passionate creatures. It was just as Halsin said:"So long as all are willing, I see no reason why we should deny ourselves." However, it did not mean she wanted to see someone she knew in such a state.

Not only was it not the bedroom, Raphael has already entered the pool of clear water.

Dahlia held Elora against her chest, but any distance due to height was immediately lost when the other sat at the edge of the bath.

"I was only talking to this little child," Dahlia chuckled as she kissed Raphael, "I found her outside our room."

"I should reconsider my patronage of this place given the amount of unwelcomed guests," he muttered, "First that Gith, now this cat."

Elora was sure that if he focused on her a bit more, then he would be able to recognise her real form. Giving what she hoped to be a convenient meow, she jumped off from Dahlia's hold and went to the main room.

"Oh, you must have frightened the poor child!" Dahlia cried out before there was suddenly the sound of splashing, followed by her laughter, "No! Absolutely not! I like both this robe and the gown underneath it too much for it to be wet."

"That stray should be careful. One of a cat's few value is their ability to sense danger, unlike a dog."

There was a slightly opened window, but the sill bore a few runes. Too jump pass was too dangerous, but a normal cat would not have such restraint.

Luckily, the remnant of a late breakfast was still there, allowing her to have a temporary hiding place. It was also rather convenient by allowing her to catch a glimpse of the couple in the bathroom.

"My little love, what is troubling you?" Raphael's voice was actually tender and he took one of Dahlia's hand to plant a kiss, "You should only be laughing and smiling when you are with me."

"What if she refuses?" Dahlia finally whispered, her fingers laced with Raphael's, "To have the crown so near you, only to have it slip out of your hold once more?"

"Oh, my sweet little flower, there is no need for you to worry about such a thing," Raphael said gently as he cupped her face and kissed her, "If this chance is not to be, then it is not to be. All I have to do is to wait for the next opportunity. Sooner or later, the crown will be mine. In the interim, I have many ways to entertain myself, especially with you beside me."

At that moment, there was a knocking on the door with the servants announcing that they were here to collect the cutleries, allowing Elora to slip out.

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Elora's plan was to return to their camp, and due to the bustling of the city, she decided to continue using her current form. However, the change in size meant that a familiar path was suddenly very alien.

The office that seemed like a convenient short cut was the exact opposite. She was almost at the door when she found herself being picked up once more. The hold was done most carefully, preventing any stabbing or scratching from the golden gauntlets of the owner.

"What an unusual intruder," Gortash chuckled as he placed Elora on his desk, "But since you are here without any of my runes reacting, you do not seem to be a spy.

"There was this stray near the hovel I grew up in. Unlike me," Gortash mused as he petted Elora, "It was always capable of obtaining enough food."

Despite knowing that Gortash once grew up in poverty, it was still rather difficult to picture this extravagantly dressed man in such a condition. Every item of his clothing, from the embroidery of his collar to the jewelled tip of his boots, was a display of extreme wealth.

"Much as I am loathed to agree with 'him', I much prefer a cat over a dog."

"Talking to a cat, Lording? You really are pathetic."

The voice was Lumina's, yet there was something rather unusual about the tone.

Instead of a simple black tunic, Lumina was in a black dress with gold embroidery and the skirt was slit all the way up to her hip.

"Is this what you are reduced to without me?" she chuckled as she leant forward, one hand stretched to Gortash.

"Wrong," with that single word, Gortash slapped the hand away, "The proportion of the mouth is wrong."

"The…proportion of the mouth?" the way that Orin was still leaning forward with one hand pressed against her lip would almost be comical if not for the numerous smear of blood across her body.

"Not only the mouth, but the arms," Gortash continued as he sat down, "What do you need?"

"What is that?" the dagger was pointed towards Elora, who quickly jumped in Gortash's lap. Embarrassing as it was, that was her best option.

Much to her surprise, he actually gave her a gentle pat.

"If you are so bored, Orin, then I have some troublesome recruits that can do with a few lessons."

"The chosen of Bane and a protector of kitten? What a nauseous joke," Orin sneered before she walked away.

"Merely practical," Gortash retorted, "I prefer to work in an office that is not covered with blood."

Unfortunately, the door was closed. Elora leapt to the still closed window, but the other was now fully focused on the documents on his desk.

Quite some time passed before Gortash suddenly stood and rearranged the document, before adjusting his collar and even smoothing his hair.

Then, he picked up his quill and leant backward, holding that pose until the door opened again

The woman that entered carried herself proudly, but the merriment that was there was still replaced by the previous night's weariness. Instead of the dress that was almost a match to Gortash's clothing, she wore an almost plain black dress with the only colour being a dark red.

"Ah, my favourite assassin."

"I am not here to resume our initial plans, Gortash," Lumina said as she took a seat with her weapon still in her hands, "I am not that person anymore."

"A reformation due to a blow on the head? How cliché. Rather, that is the nauseous joke." Gortash chuckled as he leant forward, his hands stroking her checks, "That role does not suit you at all."

"I would not say that I am reformed, only that I am…" at this, Lumina sighed, "I don't even know what the word should be. But I do know that the plan is a crazed one that should not have been carried out. We played with a fire that we would not be able to control."

"I want to lead this city to glory, not to scorch its earth," Gortash pointed out.

"Yes, but the method we choose is too risky. The elder brain need to be destroyed. It is not possible for it to be shackled indefinitely."

"To destroy a valuable weapon just because of a few malfunctions is foolish."

"So is using a weapon without detecting all the malfunctions."

"Let us say that you have convinced me," Gortash suddenly said, "And that I would actually work with you in this new plan. Would the rest of your allies believe this?"

"They might be angry with me, but they are not unreasonable," Lumina declared without any hesitation, before she reluctantly added the following, "But it might be a bit hard to convince them of your intention."

"No, I think I am being too generous with them. What would they say if they see you right now? Sitting across the man that had helped you with this plan. Would they even listen? I recalled their expression when I shared our past very well."

Elora was sure that no one in their party would attack Lumina, but they would probably start to yell once more.

A contrast to Gortash, who still sought to persuade Lumina to be with him despite her transforming into someone very different.

Unlike them, he accepted the changes simply because she was still Lumina to him.

Yet he was the one who had an unpleasant present in replacement of a cherished past.

"Come and talk to me when you have killed Orin," Gortash declared, "We can adjust the terms of our agreement then."

"You are rather confident," Lumina said, but she actually smiled faintly, as she stood and made her way to the door.

"I call it determination."

Unlike Lumina, Elora saw the gentleness in Gortash's gaze before it was replaced by both anticipation and longing.

She scuttled after her friend, finally escaping. Carefully, she tailed after the other so that she could return to the camp without the possibility of another encounter.

It was not that she didn't understand that a person was not defined by one or two actions, but at the same time, it was often easy to fall into that trap.

She was still trying to come to terms with her friend's past, but she did gain a new simply understanding.

Lumina's past was important, but so was her present. She could not just make her decision by ignoring either one. The other was responsible for the murder spree of Baldur's Gate, but she was still the first person who offered her help without any judgement.

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Author's Note: I really did not intend to write another fan fiction with Dark Urge diaries' characters, but an idea randomly come, and then it went perfectly with the photos she has put up. Part of what made this story really fun to write is that I can put the pictures up as illustrations.

This story is actually mainly from Elora's view, which makes it a change from all my previous stories, since they were all from Lumina's point of view.

The idea of this story is really just to show that while the evil characters are evil, it does not mean that they are incapable of caring for others. I think it is best to view this story as separated from the previous three stories that I wrote with Lumina.

I like writing about my OC Dahlia with Raphael, but obviously, she is not the main focus, so I just have her making a brief appearance. The other reason that I wrote about them in the beginning is because I want to use that picture. In the game, Raphael does say that he prefers a cat over a dog, but he then list kittens as something that he does not like.

As for Gortash, I am going with the idea that he has a very intimate relationship with Lumina, as that is why he is able to immediately tell that it is Orin. Right now, Gortash is still going with the plan of them being able to control the elder brain and he is obviously trying to get Lumina to side with him, by reasoning that he is not doing this to harm Baldur's Gate, as well as pointing out that her companions will have problems accepting her as being the chosen of Bhaal. In addition, he also buy himself time by suggesting that it might be possible for them to renegotiate with Orin gone. But at the same time, I do feel that he shows an acceptance to the new Lumina, because he is not trying to get her to immediately be the Lumina he would have known.

As for the pictures, here are a few explanations in regard to why I used them, as well as how they changed the story.

(1) Elora and Halsin: because this picture's background, I had to make it that they were camped outside, instead of in one of the inns.

(2) Raphael: this is meant to be his room in the House of Hope, but given that he seems to have a set of fancy quarters in Sharess Caress, I imagine it would probably have a bathroom.

(3) Gortash: DarkUrgeDiaries said that she really like his hands, so this picture is just for her.

(4) Gortash and Lumina: I actually really like this picture of Lumina, but I let it be Orin as the outfit is a contrast to the other picture. Also, this is a picture where the two of them are not standing too close.

(5) Gortash: I can so see him rehearse what he will say to Lumina before quickly adopting a nonchalant pose.

(6) Gortash and Lumina: I really like Lumina's expression in this one, because she looks so gentle and almost at peace.

#baldur's gate 3 #baldur's gate oc #oc fanfiction #fanfic #baldur's gate raphael

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noroamenial · 30 days

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I NEVER FINISHED THIS BUT UTS BEEN SITTING UN MY DRAFTA FOREVER SO TAKE IT AS IT IS!!!!

Raphael x Tav

Tav is referred to with they/them

You return the crown and receive your end of the bargain.

Relief, deep and utter relief.

You had not let yourself get there until you had dived deep into the Chionthar and pulled the crown from the sandy bottoms. You coughed and sputtered on the shore, bringing the damned artifact with you. The gold seemed silver under the full moon. The city was silent. Your friends had parted for the Elfsong long ago. Gale, Shadowheart, Halsin, Wyll, Jaheira—and with hope Astarion would have found his way there too: under the cover of night.

You would have gone along, but you had business to finish. Business involving your soul—and your soul alone—so it seemed wiser to finish up before you could revel in a life without the tadpole.

Coughing again to clear your lungs of the saltwater, you let yourself kneel in the sand. Your first moment alone, your first moment of silence. On the sandy beach of the Chionthar bay, soaked and clutching the Crown of Karsus. Your tears were warm, and that is how you realized you were crying. It was over, it was over.

“Ah, mouse.” The faint murmur of cinders caught your eye as Raphael appeared before you in the dark. He smiled softly as he caught your eye.

“You’ve done well.” He hums, dropping to a knee in front of you. “Come now, don’t cry. You’re done, you’re the hero, it’s over.” His hand cups your cheek and wipes the tears mingling with the seawater dripping from your form.

You wish you had the words to say something, to break the sob caught in your throat, but you don’t. He so easily takes the crown from your hold, not removing his gaze or his hand. It’s so intimate, so raw as he places a kiss on your forehead. And you don’t even think to second guess his command as he speaks again: “Sleep.”

A soft humming filled your ears as your eyes fluttered open. Haarlep, the incubus was propped on their side, head in hand as they watched over you twirling a few strands on your hair in their fingers. Haarlep, yes, you remembered them. You had snuck back to the devil’s den the fateful night you accepted the deal with Raphael. In a good show of trust, he had paraded you around his House of Hope. He had shown you the Orphic hammer, set you at his dining table with the contract, and gave you a pen and ink.

“If you see anything wrong with it, strike the lines. Or add some. It is wiser for it to be in both our best interests I suppose.” Raphael’s words had turned over in your mind as you were left to ponder alone. But you hadn’t been alone for long. Haarlep had snuck their way to find you. Introduced themself in scantily clad leather binds with a tone so cheery and ill befitting of Raphael’s face.

You liked them, they leaned over your shoulder for a better hour and a half helping translate the contract. A helpful ally who kissed your cheek and hovered their hand over your writing one.

Everything was pleasantly coming back to you, but you knew where you were now: the House of Hope. And you knew Raphael probably brought you here. You had given him the crown.

“Awake are we, dove?” Haarlep purrs, twirling the strand of your hair closer to your face before letting it go.

The way you smiled seemed to make them smile in turn.

“Did you have to wait long?” You ask, shifting to your side to face them.

“Mmm,” they put a finger to their chin, and it’s so amusing to see Raphael’s cambion face reflected in making such a dramatic expression. Their eyes glint as they catch your smile. “Long enough.” They’re hand tucks hair behind your ear.

“Messiness isn’t pretty on you, dove.” They chide. “You forget we have an audience with the master now that you have fulfilled your due.”

“But business should be over.” You whine and they laugh; a light bubbly chuckle.

“Oh but it never will be, dove.” Haarlep perks up, turning over to get off of the luxurious bed. “Not with our master’s new plans for you.” They come around to your side and easily scoop you up in their arms.

It’s awkward but their hold is so confident you can’t slip from their grasp. They drop you by the pool before going to rifle through a luxurious mahogany wardrobe.

You look at them and then the pool and then the incubus again and they catch your eye.

“What are you waiting for? Bathe!” They command at you.

And so you do. Meticulous, you strip and bathe, Haarlep picks out specific soaps to work into your hair and in the silence you’re able to think properly. Your friends were probably worried sick, but secretly you hope they were tired enough to not care for a bit longer until you got back.

“Im so excited to be working with you, dove.” Haarlep, as perky as ever, talks behind you. “It’s been so long since I’ve had unbroken company.”

Your brows furrow.

“What?” You ask, and as you try to turn to look at them behind you, they steer your head back to continue washing you off.

“Tsk, dove.” They chide, “Did you already forget?”

Did you?

You did.

Raphael's contract was so cut and dry and obviously meant to benefit him, which was to be expected. And as you made him wait longer and longer he had finally given in to let you look it over properly. He had expected you to struggle with the infernal and the jargon, but then Haarlep had been there. You had gotten something out of it--it was Haarlep's idea actually.

Your only request was that when you handed over the crown, you were to be a part of Raphael's council as he conquered the hells.

You remembered the squint of his eyes as he read your request scrawled in common on the parchment. He had made you wait uncomfortably in front of him as he thought it over.

You remembered the strain of his jaw for just a moment, how it had elicited a fear only prey would know. And how quickly his expression had shifted back.

"Agreed, we'll discuss the finer details once you return the crown, or rather if you should survive to give it to me."

#raphael baldur's gate 3 #baldur's gate raphael #bg3 #baldur's gate 3 #bg3 raphael #raphael #raphael bg3 #raphael the cambion #raphael x tav #baldurs gate 3

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enarien · 1 month

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can you imagine the look on Raph's face when he learns some love sick wizard emo kid one click deleted the crown? that's rough man

i would pop a vessel

#the time and effort raph invested in that fucken crown #and this kid with magic bomb up his ass just sauters over and anihilates the one thing that would help one up his pops #tragic #raphael #baldur's gate raphael #baldur's gate 3 raphael #bg3 #baldur's gate 3 #gale #gale dekarios #gale of waterdeep #en

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astarions-darling · 2 months

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The Devil's Game Raphael x FemTav Chapter One

Regency AU tags/warnings: no warnings yet. everyone is human. full of cliches :) words: 2323 read on ao3 via source

Miss Tav Larian fears she is running out of options. She cannot let her horrible Auntie Ethel force her to marry the Emperor—her distant cousin who has inherited Tav’s father’s title and estate. But there is no escape…her aunt controls all her inheritance until she either marries or turns five-and-twenty. She cannot wait that long… she has no time and nobody else will marry Tav—Auntie has seen to that.

She has no choice. A desperate plan has Tav sneaking into the House of Hope, the most notorious gaming hell in all of Faerûn, to take a chance at playing cards and winning enough money to escape her Aunt’s clutches.

But can she win the Devil’s game?

It’s Mills and Boon time, lads.

This story, while silly, contains spoilers for the game - mostly the Emperor and who he is.

Everyone is human in this story! But if you want to picture the Emperor as a mind flayer amongst a bunch of humans, go for it. Raphael and Haarlep are half brothers in this story so their relationship is much different to in game. It works better for me plot-wise.

This is also vaguely regency as it’s not historically correct by any means! It’s a world of its own, I suppose. Also I had to give Tav a surname and well…Larian seemed appropriate haha It sounds fancy!

Tav slinked across the wet cobblestones, trying to keep her dress from dragging across the ground—the edges were already wet. A barouche came around the corner at speed and nearly splattered her with mud but she quickly plastered herself against the stone wall of a nearby building. She held herself there a moment, breathing fast as she watched the carriage disappear down the street. Carefully she grabbed the skirts of her dress and continued down the dark street.

The thought of having to explain to Auntie Ethel how she’d ruined her dress was not something she wished to contemplate—she’d probably be locked in her room for a week as punishment if the old hag knew she’d damaged her clothes. Tav didn’t dare entertain the idea of what her aunt would do knowing how Tav had come to get her clothes in such a state. The young woman paused and shuddered at the mere thought. But Auntie Ethel would not discover this insubordination, Tav told herself, as she tried to keep hidden in the darkness of a nearby mass of shrubbery. She glanced down the street and took in the looming building that lay at the end of it.

The monstrous mansion that glittered impressively amidst the lit lanterns of the street was her destination. Even from this distance, Tav could see that the large windows in the building had most of the drapes drawn, but within the ones that were open, they flickered with candlelight and it was possible to catch a moment of movement as silhouettes passed by dreamily. It looked so inviting, so completely enchanting in the moonlight. But while Tav may not have grown up in the city proper, she knew enough that the look of this grand house was entirely deceiving.

Everyone knew about the gambling hell that was the House of Hope, not that anyone would admit to such profane knowledge. And certainly, nobody would let slip they had been there. It was the sort of place people whispered about in dark alcoves or behind their fans if they dared to mention it at all. Usually only the very wealthy or the peerage were allowed in, it was notorious for its selective entry and the things that went on inside...Tav was sure half of the rumours she’d heard about the wretched place had to be false. That had to be one of the only perks to living with Lady Ethel Pearl—that woman seemed to know everything and collected secrets like a squirrel hoarding nuts.

The building itself managed to sit along the bank between the lower and upper city of Baldur’s Gate; easy for those of little standing to be swallowed by and ostentatious enough for the worst kind of the upper class to dare set foot in. Tav knew that If you saw someone you knew in the House of Hope, you did not acknowledge it. You were there to play cards or engage in a game lanceboard, perhaps have a drink. That was all.

Tav watched another carriage trot by, this one at a more measurable pace, the hooves clattering happily against the cobbled street as she steadied her breathing. Her blood thrummed with nervous anticipation at the sight of the gambling hell. You had to be welcomed into the House and her plan to sneak in would surely not be met with any enthusiasm should she be caught. It was no place for a lady—though Tav had heard rumours about Lady Mizora frequenting it. Not that Lady Mizora had a care of being snubbed and was certainly wealthy enough to afford to not give a fig about the opinion of the ton. While Tav may not have been a lady, she had been the daughter of an Earl, before her father had passed. Her family name did mean something and it would damage her to be found in such an establishment. Her ruined reputation would be nothing more than leverage for Auntie Ethel.

Tav sucked in a deep breath through her nose and her eyes glazed over a moment at the thought of her father and the wretched woman he’d entrusted to care for his only child. It felt like she’d been trapped with Auntie Ethel forever. The woman wasn’t even her real aunt, she was her father’s cousin. Tav cursed the day that hag had appeared on their doorstep in the guise of helping her father through his long illness.

Poor Papa.

The street she’d been slinking down turned into a small alley, the end of which her destination glittered. She walked down it carefully, the uneven cobblestones wet beneath her feet. The small amount of gold she had secreted away felt heavy in her reticule as she navigated her way towards the House of Hope. It was not a lot of money, but it would be enough to play a few games of cards inside the house. So many years of playing with Auntie had taught Tav a lot about cards, especially because the old hag had a tendency to cheat. She felt she had a good chance at winning…it was her only chance.

Tav had heard that the Devil enjoyed having many of the high society deep in his pockets and the potential to win enough gold to leave Ethel behind was possible. The proprietor of the hell did not care so much who you were, as long as you had gold…or something of worth to offer if he had already emptied your coffers. He must have a name, Tav supposed as she walked down the alley, but she had only heard him referred to as the Devil.

“Eh, lass, whatcha doing ‘ere all by yourselves?”

The slurred voice startled Tav from her thoughts and she found herself in front of a short, elderly gentleman with a face like a walrus who had appeared out of the darkness. He belched loudly and Tav took a step back as he stumbled, an empty bottle held loosely in his hands before it clattered to the ground and rolled away.

“Young ladies shouldn’t be about all by ‘emselves.”

The man belched again and Tav tried to sidestep him but he grabbed at her cloak, his body swaying with the motion.

“Unhand me,” Tav demanded in the most direct voice she could muster. The man didn’t seem to be much of a threat. He had a melancholic air about him that had her add with a much gentler tone, “Please, sir, I must be going.”

The man peered up at her, his blue eyes bloodshot as if he’d been crying.

“Don’t go there, miss,” he said in a whisper, his eyes darting toward the House of Hope in the distance. “The Devil don’t take nothing.” He tugged on her cloak again and Tav feared the fabric would rip. “He don’t take nothing you ain’t giving. And he’ll make you gives everything you got.”

She managed to pry his grip off of her cloak and quickly hurried away, trying to ignore the prickling feeling at the back of her neck. She made it out of the alley, the cool evening air clinging to her fingers as a low mist settled itself in for the long night. The streets were bustling in this part of the city, though it always felt like Baldur’s Gate was never asleep no matter the time of day. In this busy crossing the streets were full and so she watched as people, some trying to be inconspicuous and some without a care, broke free from the flow of foot traffic to walk through the large open gate of the House of Hope and up to the front door. It was easier to blend in here, with so many people about—nobody was paying her any attention.

Tav knew she wouldn’t be able to get in through the Devil’s front door without an invitation. The large door was flanked by two guards, both looking burly and bored with their trollish appearance. As each new person approached, their name was checked on a ledger before being let in through the large and overly gilded doors. A glimpse of red velvet and glittering candelabras were seen before the doors closed once more. A moment later the doors opened again and Tav watched the guards hurl a man down the marble stairs and into a puddle left from the evening rain. Clearly, his name had not been on the list.

She knew there would be no ‘Miss Tav Larian’ on that list and so she had planned on how to gain entry. For several days she had perused the building on her walks. This wasn’t a bad place for a young lady to walk during the day, and she was never alone—her aunt had her accompanied by her personal maid, Mayrina, at nearly every waking moment.

But luckily for Tav, Mayrina was an utter goosecap. It was easy to persuade the girl to walk around these surrounding streets of the House of Hope on Tav’s daily walk and claim to be enjoying the architecture and surrounding gardens. All the while, Tav was taking note of the servant's entrance at the back of the mansion and how many people in service there appeared to be. She’d seen a few maids and footmen milling about; preparing horses, bringing in fresh food and loads of baskets filled with sheets.

So now it was easy to slip around the side of the building, searching for the servant's entrance she knew was there. When she spotted the open iron gate, she hurried through and was relieved to see nobody else. Quickly, she pulled off her cloak and hid it behind a nearby statue of an ugly-looking imp. She smoothed her dress down—she’d stolen a long apron from Mayrina and had tied it over her day dress—and fixed the pins in her neatly styled hair and put on the cap she’d also stolen from the maid. Her dress certainly was not the right sort of dress for a maid but with the apron and cap, she didn’t think anyone would notice her dress too much. Auntie was always talking about servants and how they were never noticed. Tav could never understand how Mayrina bore working for her.

“You can do this,” she whispered to herself, clutching her reticule tightly.

It was with a sort of disappointed relief that she found the servant entrance door unlocked. If it had been locked, she could have told herself she had tried and then simply go home. But there was nothing stopping her now. She darted in quickly and waited for the inevitable shout from someone demanding who she was, but none came. There was a young man lounging nearby, idly smoking a grimy looking cigarette. He hastily put it out and looked at Tav with a guilty expression.

“Er, please, don’t tell Korrilla,” he said. “I just needed a quick break.”

Tav raised her chin. “I won’t say anything.”

The man smiled with relief at her words and Tav tried not to run through the hallway. She passed a few others maids who nodded at her and she returned the greetings. Nobody had said anything! She could barely believe her luck so far, but she did not dare test it. When she came to a set of stairs she quickly ascended until she came to a door which opened with ease as she turned the handle. Creeping through, she found herself on a lushly carpeted floor that was empty of anyone else. Music and laughter greeted her and as she slinked further she realised she had come upon a mezzanine floor. Slowly, she walked forward and peered over the gold balustrade and down below. It was full of people! There were so many tables set up for all different kinds of card games and waiters were walking around with trays laden with champagne. It was like the most raucous soiree Tav had ever seen. She could even spy some men and women lounging together on a settee, sitting far too close than was proper and laughing as they clinked their drinks. Tav’s heart raced when she saw one man slide a hand so effortlessly under one lady's skirt—the woman didn’t even budge! She just laughed again, the feather in her hair swaying hypnotically before she gracefully stood and gestured for the man to follow. Tav watched them as they both drifted off together, arms intertwined, toward a large staircase.

Tav ducked back as the music from below swelled, and in the distance, a champagne cork popped. She’d spotted the cribbage card table and all she had to do was get down there and act like she belonged.

Easy.

The couple had reached the top of the stairs and Tav watched as they disappeared behind a set of closed doors. She closed her eyes and prayed to any god that may hear her plight and possibly offer guidance. With nothing left to do but either flee or continue with this madness, she steadied her resolve and started to head for the large staircase. Her heart was racing. As soon as she reached the top of the staircase she would remove the apron and cap before stuffing them in a nearby vase. The closer she got the more panicked she became. But she couldn’t leave now. That odious old woman was so desperate to get her to marry the new Earl—her estranged cousin who just happened to be next in line for the title and also just happened to be Ethel’s son. Sometimes Tav wondered if the old woman had poisoned her father and addled his brains to even let him think to give that hag control over Tav and her inheritance.

Too lost in trying not to cast up her supper, Tav failed to hear the door open behind her.

“A lost little mouse is running through the house…”

#bg3 fanfic #.writing #raphael x tav #baldur's gate raphael #raphael the cambion #bg3 raphael #bg3 raphael fanfic #fic: the devil's game #regency au #this is a very slow first chapter sorry!#i haven't done much writing lately as my brain has melted

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gamesscreens · 2 months

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I found an old screenshots of emotion damaged Raphael

#baldur's gate 3 #bg3 #baldur's gate iii #raphael #baldur's gate raphael

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avatarobi · 3 months

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"When you see my face, hope it gives you hell, hope it gives you hell. If you find a man that's worth a damn and treats you well. Then he's a fool, you're just as well, hope it gives you hell." - Raphael, Baldur's Gate 3

#raphael #baldurs gate 3 #baldur's gate raphael #raphael baldur's gate 3 #raphael bg3 #bg3

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psinahehe · 3 months

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#baldur's gate raphael #bg3 raphael #raphael bg3 #baldur's gate 3 #bg3 #raphael the cambion #haarlep

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shansese · 1 month

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Why should I buy these three dices, because I think they look like the colours of House of Hope, Raphael's eyes, and Andrew's eyes.

【我真的不是变��啊！信我！

#baldur's gate 3 #bg3 #baldur's gate raphael #andrew wincott

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alphagravy · 10 days

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#raphael the cambion #baldur's gate 3 #baldur's gate raphael #gravyshot

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tigerlyla-of-metinna · 4 months

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Raphael the Cambion

Capture by @alphagravy, my edits in photoshop.

#bg3 #raphael the cambion #bg3 raphael #baldur's gate 3 #baldur's gate raphael #larian studios #virtual photography #TLylaedits/arts

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certifieddilfenjoyer · 8 days

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#bg3 raphael #my game screenshots #baldur's gate raphael #raphael bg3

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nattosushi · 1 month

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Baldur's Gate 3 fan fiction featuring Lumina (Dark Urge Diaries' character)

Don't forget to check out Lumina's creator's blog. Her clips, especially her music videos, are absolutely amazing

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The invite to Lumina was written on a thick and even embossed paper. The paper was perfumed very strongly, yet it still failed to hide the sulphur.

"So, an invite to dine with the devil? Should I be jealous, darling?" Astarion commented as he took hold of her hand, "But since he won't be alone and offers you the chance of taking one of us, and I now enjoy a decent meal like the rest of you, I am clearly the most suitable choice. I can also charm his little pet and gain some more information. Not that I think she would be useful. Unlike you, my treasure, his pet is so dull. For a devil with such potential, he is rather lacking in taste."

"I don't think that will be a good idea," Elora pointed out, "You did stare at her neck a bit too long."

"I was merely curious since she is a human that is experiencing some sort of immortality. I simply wonder if that would have an effect on her blood."

"A devil," Dahlia had said as she raised her hand to touch her neck, "Is still more powerful than a vampire ascendant."

"Not quite true, my dear," Raphael had chuckled as he took her hand and kissed it, "But it is so with me. I am also the only one who is allowed to leave any mark on you."

At this, Lumina exchanged a glance with Elora and the two of them nodded in mutual agreement that it was not going to be Astarion that goes with her.

Lumina did not really think that Dahlia could provide them with any useful information, although the devil's wife did have a certain amount of knowledge and understanding in regard to his actions. She was also, for the time being, rather fond of Lumina.

Despite being impulsive, Lumina was well aware of the power and necessity of information. It was just that there were often times when she would throw away the caution that should have came with her preparation. (1)

"What of Gale? Did he not talk about whatever tome she was reading and even managed to engage in a discussion with her?" Elora suggested, "And he is really intelligent." (2)

"But after that comment about the lava worm being fed gun powder, it might be a bit too suspicious."

"And the rest of us won't be suspicious? Although now that I think about it, Gale has been rather vehement about talking to Raphael due to what he learnt about the crown. I am actually a bit worried about Gale."

Elora's gentleness could almost be sickly sweet, but Lumina did not dislike her very first companion. Perhaps it was because the other woman was not naive and was willing to listen to other views, even if she did not agree. (3)

"You and I then, just like how it was in the very beginning," Lumina declared, "I don't think there is any one more suitable."

Elora was the only one that would give her an unbiased judgment. Astarion was still too intoxicated with his new power, as well as being upset by Raphael being able to provide one of the few things that he was not able to.

Gale was now too biased due to his own desire for the crown, while Wyll's experience with his own bargain made him automatically reject any similar ones.

As for Lae'zel, the other made her view too clear.

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The invite would be answered and it was Elora that managed to sooth all their companions' protests, even reprimanding them for believing that Lumina would make an agreement on behalf of them.

"Well, I admit that it is not a completely bad idea to hear the devil out. After all, his agreement with Astarion was surprisingly fair. But my heart, do drink the antidote first."Halsin agreed reluctantly as he placed something in his lover's hand.

Nor were her companions the only ones that objected. When Elora began to talk to the others, Lumina felt a sharp pain in her brain, followed by the thoughts almost being like slaps.

"Why do you wish to see the devil if you do not intend to accept his deal? After all that we went through, all that I shared with you, you still do not trust me?"

"I am merely curious and wish to hear what he says. You can see for yourself that I am not deceiving you. You are the one that demand trust without returning it," she hissed, "Because you will immediately suspect me if I don't walk on the path you dictate."

Closing her eyes, she relaxed and allowed her mind to be exposed to him. It was just as she said, a mere curiosity. Even though she would be lying to say that she definitely did not intend to agree to the deal, she would not do so right now.

"You are right. I was, perhaps, a bit too worried," the Emperor admitted, "But you must understand that a devil such as him is extremely skilled at deception and manipulation."

"What of a mind flayer then?" she could not help but to retort before she took a deep breath and thought of how different the Emperor was from all the other mind flayers.

Most of all, why would he harm her when they sought the same thing?

Or, she suddenly realised, it was only the same in the very beginning.

The dream guardian told her that he was seeking an escape from the eventual transformation, but the emperor was actually happy with his new body. Once he appeared in his real form, he began to suggest the advantages of the transformation, even describing it as a good thing.

The Emperor seemed to be more then acceptant of his fate. Rather than the reconciliation of an inevitable situation, it truly seemed to be a metamorphosis that he was happy with.

"But I offer you the choice of deciding whether you wish for this," he pointed out, "Also, would you have dared to accept my help if I had shown you my true form in our first meeting?"

Even if he had not been completely truthful, he was still the one that protected her and the others, shielding them at great cost. Their well being was also in his interest, so they could be described as wanting the same thing.

But his hostility at freeing Orpheus was too much.

"Because it endangers us," the Emperor whispered, his voice resuming its usual calmness, "Orpheus is blind like the rest of his race. He already sees you as a mind flayer and rather than helping you, his only mercy of thanking you would be a swift death."

"Why me?" she muttered as she turned to Elora, who was given a last hug by Halsin, "She would have been much less problematic."

He chuckled, if such a sound could be called that.

"She is not like you at all. You are the leader of this group. I saw in you not only the potential to save me, but the ability to know and accept me. I did not think that there could even be another that could. No, that might not be true," in the other's voice was that of wonder and even awe, "You might have done even more then her."

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The two of them were early instead of fashionably late, as it might give them an opportunity to talk to Dahlia alone. If Raphael did not have a busy schedule then they would simply begin a bit earlier.

The guards at the door informed that even though their master was not back yet, they were welcome to wait inside.

"The mistress is in there. Do not upset her in anyway," one said, "The master is very protective of her."

"As are we," was added with a hand on the weapon, "The master does not tolerate failure."

From inside, the woman chuckled.

"Let them in. Such foolishness would not earn my devil's interest,"

Like all the other times, Dahlia was probably wearing the cost of several kingdoms. A small half opened box was on the table by her and it was filled with jewelleries that were enhanced in value due to their rarity. Unlike Elora, Lumina could not deny a few extra looks.

"Are you so easily tempted?" the Emperor reprimanded.

"I am not a child to be scolded by you," she retorted back.

"Then perhaps you should behave less like one."

"Raphael will be back soon, but you already know that, don't you?" Dahlia commented. A book rested in her lap and while the title was unfamiliar, their binding indicated a value was no inferior to her other toys.

Was that what she could expect with Astarion? But she still preferred to be right by him, instead of being left behind with all these trinkets.

"…I don't really ask him about his business and he doesn't usually volunteer," Dahlia was saying to Elora, "Save for special cases like you two. And of course, Lumina is a rather unique case, because she is the first person to ever make him flustered."

The other two were actually drinking some sort of tea and Elora was even explaining about its property.

It would almost be a normal domestic scene that she might have experienced in another life.

Almost.

"She is lying." The Emperor hissed, "She knows more. Much more."

Lumina agreed, but she was not able to employ any of her usual methods to obtain information. However, she was a bit curious about this woman, as she felt a strange sensation that was both familiar and alien.

The faint remnant of blood, a slight fragrance as it was spilt in a sacred place, fit to be drunk by her father. (4)

"That of her past," the Emperor explained, "Long ago, she must have had extensive dealings with Bhaal for the smell to cling."

"Is she a Bhaalspawn or a priestess of Bhaal?" she mused.

Recalling what Dahlia had said about her age, it would mean that the other was there during the Bhaalspawn crisis and might be a teenager or a child during the Time of Troubles.

"You can find out. You simply have to reach into her brain. I will help you."

But as Gale showed, a mage would have a high defence. Even though Lumina was sure that Raphael's desire for the crown would be enough for him to overlook his wife's anger, it was still rather risky to anger them.

And Raphael would still be angry. Strange as it was, the title of wife was there due to love. A devil's unusual and twisted love, but love nonetheless.

"Devils only love themselves. He is simply a child who cannot stand another pulling out the hair of his doll, even though he would easily toss it on the floor himself," the Emperor said harshly, "But I can help you."

Rather than slamming into the mind, they would find a gap and carefully slide into it, untangling the other thoughts.

"Could she actually know of me?" Lumina wondered, the scent of blood growing even stronger.

"We can find out."

A mage's mind was well guarded and age also added an additional protection. But the Emperor was much more skilled then her, and Lumina could almost feel him grabbing her hand and help her to move through the curtain of thorns.

The shapes began to form, the familiar symbol of her father. Various priests and priestesses were performing rituals, their dagger striking over and over.

Then, she saw a woman who cradled two babies in her arm. She knelt in front of the altar, in a dress drenched in blood.

She suddenly turned and began to laugh.

"Dahlia, meet your new siblings. Unlike you, their father is not a mere servant of our lord, but our Lord himself. Your brother is called - "

Then, the images were set aflame. A red so dark that it was almost black.

"How dare you!" Dahlia hissed.

The words were chanted rapidly, and a giant fist borne from magical energy slammed down. Both Lumina and Elora managed to duck, although a few splinters of the broken furniture shot past, grazing their checks. (5)

"To intrude in my mind when you are a guest in my room!" Dahlia continued, and she was now holding a wand. The item was already radiating with power and unlike all the other valuables Lumina had seen her hold, this was not a mere toy.

There was no other choice but to draw out her weapon. Beside her, Elora reluctantly raised her own weapon.

"Why did you do this?" she muttered to Lumina.

Luckily, their host chose to appear at that very moment.

"Now, now, my little one, I know you are angry," Raphael not only put an arm around her wrist, his other hand actually closed over her hand to take the wand, "But what an impressive display of a loss in control this is!"

"Of course I am upset!" Dahlia snapped, although she placed her arms around the cambion and leant against him.

"Oh, my little love, I was not referring to your reaction, but the action of this naughty mouse." Raphael chuckled as he kissed her forehead, "But we five are all civilized beings, so I am sure we do not need to retort to any weapons."

"Five? Not six?" Dahlia asked as she allowed Raphael to guide her to the sofa, where he then pulled her right onto his lap.

"Ah, that would be seven. But I think the last two are rather different and should not be counted, Rather than the tadpoles," he whispered dramatically, their forehead touching, "I am talking about the frog."

"More of a toad," Dahlia muttered before she shrugged, "Fine, I won't hold that against her."

At this, Raphael chuckled and kissed her, before he turned and gestured to the seats across him, "Please, I am not so rude as to keep my guests standing."

Lumina quickly glanced at Elora and she saw that the other was clearly relieved. Meeting her gaze, Elora smiled gently despite the lingering confusion.

"What a surprising lack of control from you, little mouse," Raphael said once again, "But since it was encouraged by one so skilled in manipulation, I can forgive you too."

The Emperor did not say anything, but his indignation was a burst of strong energy, forcing Lumina to place one hand against her forehead.

"Ilithid, do not dare to touch my precious treasure again," Raphael's tone was still light while his smile was still there, but there was a sudden coldness in his eyes. He was now in his demonic form, his wings almost shielding and enveloping Dahlia, with the claws that gently caressed her was more than capable of tearing and ripping a being apart.

"I believe that you are intelligent enough to understand that your little cage would offer you little protection from me." Raphael continued, "Play with your toys however you want, but do not touch what is mine."

"He speaks of me the way he sees himself," the emperor hissed, "And you will entertain any deals with him?"

"I think our final guest must be protesting of how different he is, and in that, he is not fully wrong," Raphael continued, whispering exaggeratedly to Dahlia once more, "After all, I offer a fair exchange with all my clients instead of just dangling a carrot in front of them even as I continue to hit them with a whip."

"And you do not involve others," Dahlia agreed, straightening slightly so that her face was visible from the cocoon of Raphael's wings, "How unfair it is then, my devil, for me to be attacked in the unlikelihood of you deals being sabotaged."

"Yes, what reason can there be for them to harm you? My poor little one, I will give you a new dress made from the finest silk and lace. If that still cannot make you smile, then I will give you a diadem. What gems should I crown it with?"

"Raphael, you asked me here for a purpose," Lumina reminded, the irritation from the Emperor was almost like a light prodding that was increasing in force.

"Yes, but due to your sudden actions, I have to delay our dinner slightly. However," at this, Raphael stood and gestured to the dining table, "It was intended for four, not five."

"Do not trust – " the Emperor began, but his words suddenly halted and even his presence was gone.,

Instead, there was an eerie silence.

"I think our uninvited guest has overstayed his welcome. I am afraid, however, that he would be most upset at being excluded. He would probably ask you to repeat every single word," Raphael chuckled, "I do not even ask my little love that many details when she sneaks out."

"I did not sneak out! I went out with two of my best guards!" Dahlia protested.

"Our agreement was that some places require three guards at the very least. Two very skilled ones does not equate to four or even three."

The table was laid and the guests joined the hosts. The foods were luxurious, but not other worldly.

"It is only from the kitchen downstairs," Dahlia chuckled, "I am naturally biased, but I am rather confused. It is not that I don't understand why you are reluctant to make a deal with a devil, but I cannot fathom why you prefer to trust a mind flayer more."

"Yes, and I am rather irritated, if not offended, that an illithid is held in a higher regard then me," Raphael admitted, "My contract is a most beneficial one at my own slight detriment."

"The Emperor has been trustworthy," Lumina pointed out, "He has been truthful."

"And I have not?" the surprise was actually a genuine one, "Have I not always made my intentions clear?"

"You said your compassion is boundless and you stride among the needy to give comfort," Lumian reminded him, "You think I can be expected to believe you after such statements?"

Dahlia actually laughed and even with the sudden covering of her mouth by her napkin, her laughter still remained rather loud.

"You actually believed him when he said that?" she finally managed to say when she briefly stopped laughing, "Either you were extremely gullible or Raphael is wasting his talent by not being a bard."

"I did practice that line for quite some time," Raphael admitted, "But this result is still very surprising. If I realised that you would be so gullible, then I'd have tricked you into selling your soul for a pocketful of beans when we first met."

"The Emperor has also helped me since the very beginning. Without him, I would already be a mind flayer." Lumina reasoned.

"Yes, in the same way that I feed and protect my servants. It is in my interest that they stay well in order to perform my desires."

"You say this mind flayer guardian has always helped and protected you, as well as always being truthful," Dahlia added, "But it wants you to be a mind flayer, does it not? I cannot imagine that being said that to you in your initial meeting."

"A misleading of information is merely a more efficient way of lying," Raphael answered instead, "I must add, my little one, describing the conjoint twins as two pairs of hands instead of a single guard is very similar."

"But they do attack more efficiently then all the other guards with only a pair of hands," Dahlia reasoned, "And they are also extremely loyal to you."

"Because our exchange is a very fair one to both our benefits. Unlike the illithid in our charming guest's brain."

"What is it that you want?" Lumina asked once more.

"Have I not made myself clear enough? I wish to discuss your reluctance in accepting my deal," the devil said simply, "You are the one getting the immediate benefit and the payment is one that would be much easier to obtain with my help."

"Are you worried that the mind flayer might harm you should you agree? It does seem rather paranoid," Dahlia suggested, "But Raphael would be able to protect you."

"Illithid has a common fault, they always think they are the one behind the lanceboard," Raphael then clicked his finger and what must be the contract materialised, "My little one, have a read of it for me, would you?"

"Another revision? And you even translated it. Is that why you stayed up late last night?"

"Oh, I certainly do not want my potential client to think that I am short-changing them in anyway."

The dinner was a display with each sentence the devil and his wife whispered being a way to sow doubt, connecting any disjoint suspensions and forcing the various doubts Lumina had to surface.

It also created great discord, one she must try to pacify.

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"What did the devil say?" the Emperor immediately demanded. His thoughts were hurled at her, attempting to tear the other thoughts to reveal the information he desired.

"It is what I already told you- he wants me to sign a contract with him."

"That cannot be all that he said! I was shut out for a very long time."

"I ate with him and watched him play act as a mortal. And he made a few comments about how I should not trust a mind flayer, which is naturally what he would say."

"He seeks to poison you against me."

"Couldn't the same be said about you?" Lumina snapped back, recalling the maze in Dahlia's mind that she had sought to navigate with his promise.

"I merely helped you with something you wanted to do," he was not wrong, but unlike the other time, this lack of caution was encouraged.

"What did he say?"

"Stop!" she screamed out. She deliberately hid in what seemed to be a deserted alleyway as the emperor refused to wait. Luckily, Elora could go back to the camp and explain to the others.

"You are treating me as if I am a thrall!" she hissed, stabbing her blade in a nearby crack on the wall, "I have been truthful, yet you continue to invade my mind!"

The pain suddenly stopped, replaced by what almost seemed to be a caress.

"I am sorry, I was afraid," if the words could be spoken, then they would have been a gentle whisper, "But you are very special to me, so I was frightened at the possibility of losing you. Devils are – "

"I don't need you to explain. Just…just let me have some time alone. I need to think."

The hesitation was mingled with fear, but also anger.

"Since the very – " the words were suddenly halted due to a cry of pain, "They are attacking again and I must stop them. For us. Even if you do not believe this."

The sudden absence was still not a complete silence, because there was still a part of him that lingered there.

Taking the dagger, she plunged it into the wall once more.

"Is this a new hobby you picked up during our separation?"

Gortash stood at the entrance, his arms crossed with a wide smirk.

"Should the future Archduke of Baldur's Gate be frolicking in such fashion?" she retorted as she grabbed her dagger. The effect was slightly ruined due to the few pebbles that almost hit her boot.

"Not a very impressive greeting by your standard, but I can let that slide, as you clearly had a rather trying day," he chuckled, his fine boots clicking on the rough pavement, "But just because I have to tend to paperwork and attend banquets, it does not mean that I have lost the skills that allowed me to climb out from all this."

He placed a hand on her shoulders, a light one that she could easily shake off. She did not, because it felt right that she would allow it.

"You have always been expressive, but not in such a way."

"Merely trying to make a decision," she sat down and much to her surprise, Gortash did the same.

"Humour me. I have been rather bored lately. Playing the hero can be rather tiring."

Lumina laughed, because he was actually being truthful. It was also rather nostalgic and this strangeness was possibly the most relaxing part of her day so far.

"To make a deal with the devil I know or the illithid I know," she chuckled, "Neither sound promising."

"No, it'd be best to make a deal with a human you don't remember yet." Gortash said as he gestured to himself, "As I said many times, I value an alliance and am true to my words. It is also something that Bane teaches."

"Have you ever signed a contract with Raphael?"

"You head must have suffered an extremely severe blow if you will say such a foolish thing. I am almost insulted. I ran away with the contract my parents signed."

"You managed to steal your contract?"

"Tempting as it is to declare that it was very easy, it was not," Gortash admitted, "Raphael might seem to only bark, but he does have a very sharp bite."

Gortash actually frowned and his gaze darted to the holy symbol of Bane, only to quickly look away. (6)

"As for that illithid who like to call himself the Emperor, he is very problematic too. I am actually a bit surprised that he hasn't tried to have a firmer control of you." (7)

"What do you mean?"

"Parties and banquets can be rather boring at times, so I have to find ways to entertain myself," he said instead, "One way is to notice how people raise their glass to me: those who seeks to attack me openly or secretly; those who wishes something for me. And of course, those that are indebted to me."

He chuckled, no doubt relishing in some of his successes before he grimaced.

"I had an invite to something held by Duke Steelmane and her 'advisor'. At first, it was just one of the many banquets in the city. But then, I saw her raising her goblet to him. Her hands were trembling, but not from fear. Rather, it was more akin to someone trying to lift it for her. The way she smiled was also as if someone was pushing the edge of her mouth upwards."

"And that was how you managed to find out he was a mind flayer?"

"He wasn't really hiding it," Gortash pointed out, "But the effect of these side controls clearly took a very physical toll on her. Perhaps that is why he is careful with you."

"A vessel to take him to the absolute," she muttered as she stood up, "Or a doll that he does not want to suffer any damages."

Taking one of her smaller daggers, she tossed it behind.

As she expected, she was rewarded with his laughter and the sounds of metals clashing.

"Don't forget that there is a third choice! The best one!" Gortash called out.

A third choice? It might just be as he said, with the newest option being the best one.

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Additional notes

(1) At first, I did wonder if being hedonistic and being a bit impulsive would contradict with her being possibly lawful, but I then realise that this is not so. Because alignment is not just a person's inner nature, but also their conscious choice.

(2) Dahlia is/was a follower of Azuth, so she does read about magic theories now and then.

(3) Lumina is of an evil alignment so she would regard neutral as irresolute and good as self-righteous. Since I feel Elora is a very nice person, I think it is likely that this could be seen as being a bit sickly sweet by Lumina. And since they both exist in this setting, I imagine that they were the first person the other met after they tried to escape.

(4) As Dahlia was in a very active temple of Bhaal for the first seven years of her life with her mother being very zealous, she would have been exposed to numerous rituals.

(5) The spell would be Bigby's clenched fist. Dahlia was a mage who did adventure with a Bhaalspawn and survive the war of the Bhaalspawn, so she actually does have considerable skills. I feel that she would still study a few of the more powerful spells as security and protection.

(6) My own interpretation is that Gortash managed to steal his contract with Bane's help. Although, since he lived in the House of Hope, he would have more chance to steal it.

(7) I am assuming that Gortash does not know the full extent of the Emperor's presence in Tav's mind, which would be why he is speaking rather freely.

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Author's Note: First of all, I know that the correct way to describe a mind flayer should be 'it', but I have seen the Emperor being described as 'he' very often. In addition, my story works with the idea that Balduran is actually still there, which would make the masculine pronoun more suitable.

This fan fiction actually came to be due to a most random comment that I saw on Youtube. Basically, the person does not like the Emperor and said that they felt compared to the Emperor, Raphael is basically a saint. While that is definitely going way too far, I do agree that Rapahel is much better than the Emperor. I feel that unlike the Emperor, Raphael is not hypocritical. Despite what he said in his first appearance, I really don't think there is anyone who believe that (which is why I had to put in that comment by Dahlia). And I have to say, if people prefer a devil that specialise in making bargains that are 99% in his favour, then you really have some major work to do on your PR.

The idea of Gortash coming to offer a third choice just came and I really like that idea. Since he actually was the one that caught the Emperor, I thought it is rather suitable for him to come out and show his view.

Whether the Emperor control of the Duke is true or just said in retaliation to Tav's rejection is debatable, but I personally go for the former. Because it could be triggered even when it seemed that Tav and him were very intimate with one another, so the rejection would be a surprise. Therefore, it seems rather farfetched for him to suddenly produce this very detailed story.

As for why he did not control Tav, I do believe that he regards Tav as special, and he prefer for her (him) to be with him by wanting to. Afterwards, I think it is because Tav would have reached a certain level of power that prevented this from happening easily, while in the beginning, it would have been more practical for him to not do so. As the story shows, he does truly value Lumina's companionship, as it is something that has been denied.

However, I think the main difference between the Emperor and both Raphael and the ascended Astarion is how they seek to be in control. While the latter two might engage in some type of emotional manipulation or even physical abuse due to the situation (which is definitely not ok) I feel that the Emperor, due to being a mind flayer, would be more willing to simply control Tav's mind and won't be too upset, while the other two would only do so as a last resort to prevent Tav from leaving. Once again, I must point out that I don't think any of this is ok, but I do feel that there is a slight difference.

My main conclusion is that it's probably better to stick with Gortash, as he is human (mortal).

I don't know how much access the Emperor would have in regard to Tav and the other's mind. Whether Tav was the only one or he just happened to have chosen her. My take is that he can only choose one to have such a direct bond with.

Unfortunately, I was not really able to do Elora's appearance any justice, because during most of the story, she was just there beside Lumina. But I want to show that the two of them does have a rather strong friendship.

Of course, both Raphael and Gortash are naturally biased against the Emperor, but some of the things they pointed out are actual facts, which they then interpret in a way to their favour.

1- The Emperor is very insistent on knowing Lumina's exact actions. Raphael saying it is like how he question Dahlia when she sneaks out, is implying that the Emperor is treating Lumina as if she is doing something wrong.

2- Raphael and Dahlia's comment about one of her guards is the reminder of how misleading someone could be interpreted as lying. In addition, while a master would naturally make sure his servants are well in order for them to perform his orders, loyalty could only be given if both sides are honest with each other. (I feel that Korilla show that he probably does have a few servants that he treats quite well).

3- Gortash simply describes how he saw Duke Steelmane act in the way that the Emperor showed in the scene after Tav rejected him.

#baldur's gate oc dahlia #baldur's gate 3 #baldur's gate oc #baldur's gate raphael #oc fanfiction #fanfic

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