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Chapter Text

As thunder cracks, around the cursed shadowlands. Rain poor down heavily, but none of the guards flinch. As to not insult or be seen with weakness. In the throne room, the chosen were all talking.

"While I understand, your need to find your daughter. You need to keep your head on straight, this is work to be done." Said half-elf, a wood elf. Long black hair, hanging down, from the outside of the hood of the cloak he was wearing. Two swords on his back with a bow. The man had tanned skin, sapphire blue eyes. A thin beard and mustache. Standing about 6'2, he had a slender form, wearing gloves. The cloak covering most of his face, but on his right eye on the side of a face was a scar going down it. There was small a bit of grey in his beard and hair, ether from age or stress. Due to his blood, his aging was very slowed.

"Yes, listen to Mr.Thornwind, I mean, we can maybe understand the need to look for your daughter. But we already put so much into this plan, that we shouldn't let a runaway child deter us." Said gortash with a grin

"Hehe, oh I can look for her if you like~ I am sure I can get her here!" Said Orin the red twirling a dagger. As she glances at the lash of bhaal, a knife stain with red.

"Don't you dare touch her, Orin!" Said ketheric thorm, sitting at his throne. Glaring daggering at the changeling. "If you even think come close to her, I will.." Before he could finish, Orin interrupted him.

"You'll what~? Oh this is getting exciting" She said with a malice grin

"Enough!" Yelled arthur, quieting the room. "Orin stop acting like a child" Arthur said

"Or w-"

Before she could finish, she looked at Arthur look, his eyes staring at her. She growls before looks away, backing up.

"I will send out of the guards to go looking for her, but that's all I can promise Ketheric." Said Arthur. "You can take it or leave it." He said looking at him.

"...Fine.. as long as Orin keep her dagger sheathed." Said Ketheric.

"Great! Now that all is settled, me and Arthur should be heading back to baldur's gate. To continue now arthur let's go" Said gortash "We need to keep that cloak on and hide your identity, don't want the people of Baldur's Gate see how far their hero fell. After falling to his father influence." Said gortash with a smirk.

"Actually, I need to go down to the colony to check on things. Orin, Come." He said before starting to walk away

As orin growled, but followed, as Ketheric watched Arthur walk away, arthur cloak bellowing as he walked.

As Arthur and Orin reach the colony, they stopped. "Sceleritas Fel." He said to the empty room.

Just then, the was a giggle, as Sceleritas Fel appears out of thin air. "Ah yes, master, you called and I came. How may I, your humble butler help you."

"How are things on our end? Is everything still going as planned" He said

"Why of course dear master, oh young master your wickedness and intelligence is none like any other bhaalspawn. So much so, even the brain self respects you. I shall head back, and make sure your coffee is ready for you" He said bowing to Arthur before disappearing

"Asking that small creature to do work for you bloodkin. I thought daddy favorite meatpuppet can do everything by himself." Said Orin.

"I can't be in two places at once, don't forget yourself orin. Even you can't do that, while fear is great way to control, it can only go so far." He said.

"Please, people screaming, blood filling the streets. It's such a amusing song, but you still haven't gone after your past life. Is there a part of you that still struggles~ That thinks it can control that thinks it c-"

Before she could finish, Arthur grabs her throat and throws her against the wall pinning her to it, before she could move. A knife was pointed right at her.

"I don't attack them because it won't further the agenda. Don't worry..." He then makes a devious grin "I will take great enjoyment to hear everyone screams to, even yours.. but right now you have your use." He said before dropping her.

Turning his back to her, as they begin to walk till there was a loud crash..

"What the hell was t-" Before arthur could finish, orin stabbed Arthur right into the head, as Arthur yells, trying to shake her off, as she laughs

"I had enough of you, you defiled father you don't get to be his chosen! You are only working for him, because of that curse! But don't worry bloodkin, I will make sure father work is done, without you!" She said stabbing,but then arthur, slams her into the wall, before grabbing a dagger from him, stabbing her into the shoulder making her scream before laughing

"Yes, yes struggle squirm, while you die!" She said laughing, as she stabs again, again, again and again... before.. he begins to fall, soon landing on the floor.. her laughing echoing the chambers.. As he lays there but for once, in so long.. his eyes weren't filled with bloodlust. Glee, or malice. It was like the door was open for a split moment his final thoughts..was Jaheira. The last time he saw her, her smile. The warmth of her cheek on his hand. he was himself again for a split second. as he bleeds on the ground before passing out. Orin leaving him there, before one of cultist finds him.

Just then Arthur open his eyes, he was in a field of green grass and several flowers surrounding him, the soft wind blows. He looks at his hands, he flexes them a bit. gripping them. His eyes water a bit "Oh gods...I am in control again, after so long.. I..have full control.. oh gods what have I done." He said putting his hands on his face, burying them in it. Just then he heard a voice,

"You, have made a huge mess." Said the voice as Arthur, looked, to see a man, with bright green eyes. with a branch crown, antlers poking out. Wearing a druid gear a large wooden staff, Though he had a soft face. Many may not recognize him, but Arthur did. It was Silvanus, the tree father.

"But a mess I do believe you can clean up" Said a female voice, who beauty can't be describe in words. Having long white hair that went to her hips, she was wearing a blue and silver robe, sitting on a glowing chair. Drinking tea, it was Selûne, the moonmaiden.

"Silvanus.. Selûne..." He said looking at the two gods. Two gods, that him as high harper knew to well, and have done things for them. "What are you doing here"

"Glad to see you recognize me! Most people don't after I shaved my beard." Said Silvanus laughing. His laugh was nice, and warm. Like the warm sun.

"We are here to help you Arthur, the curse Bhaal put you under, was broken by Orin dagger. Allowing us to come in, for a brief moment." Said Selûne.

"But why?" said Arthur.

"Well, you know Ao, we are not allowed to really allowed to intervene, but due to what you have done for the gods. We got permission to at least heal you to get things rolling." He said thinking almost by muscle memory goes to rub his beard, but he didn't have one so he just end up rubbing the air.

"No why help me now? After everything I done. I.." Before he could finish.

"Now is not the time for that. Arthur," Said Selûne "Sorry, but we don't have a lot of time. Ao, only allowed us a few moment. Though, we know you are hurting. But we need High Harper Arthur.." She said sadly.

As Arthur looks down, as he takes a deep breath. "I understand, then let me say this. I will stop at nothing, I will stop the absolute and destroy it. I will make sure it doesn't destroy faerun."

As Silvanus grins "That's my boy, I am sorry we can't talk more, but we also have our own reasons for helping you as well Arthur. We have two quests for you, in return for us personally helping you." He said, looking at arthur, as Arthur stands up looking at them. "I am listening." He said,

"A druid grove, a very important one has one my idols. Something is going on in it. I need you to fix it, or at least try to make things better, for me. But you can't tell me it was because of me mostly because they won't believe you. I am sorry I can't tell you everything, but just that my druid grove needs help." He said.

"I understand Silvanus, it will be done and Selûne.." He said before blinking as Selûne goes to put her hand on his shoulder.

"It is really great to see you, the real you arthur. I know so much is happening, and I know deep down. While you do want to stop the absolute, you want to find her." She said smiling sweetly.

AS Arthur blinks, then looks down.

"Yes, I do. I want to find Jaheira." He said looking down.

"I know you do, and you will find her. As for my request it's going to be a tall order, but I want to you to try to find my daughter. I know she's alive, but I can't find her anywhere so something tells me that ketheric has something to do with it. I want you to find her, and save her.."

As arthur nods, "I understand, it will be done. I swear to you Selûne. I will save your daughter, and stop ketheric, as well as the absolute."

AS Selûne nods smiling, before she frowns. "One more thing Arthur.. that curse, Bhaal put on you while yes the curse is technically gone. Though your urges, they are now stronger. you might have episodes where you won't have control, so I think the best thing you can do is to let some of your urges out."

As Arthur eyes widen, "You, you do realize what you asking me. You asking me to let my urges to take control," He said

"Not take control Arthur, to find a way to somehow let it flow. I am afraid you can't keep it bottled up like you did. It's still a part of you in a way Arthur." Said Selûne. "I am just saying be careful." She said to him.

As he sighs taking a deep breath "Alright I will keep it in mind, but I can't promise anything on it." He said

"Good, well now we must go. You will wake up soon, be ready for Arthur." Said Selûne.

"See you later Arthur, make us proud" Said Silvanus with a big on his face, as the two disappear, leaving arthur alone.

As Arthur looks down at his hands again, before gripping it "Baldur's Gate, Minsc... Jaheira, Please wait for me, I will be home soon.."

He said looking up, as he closes his eyes..

Chapter Text

Tssssssss

Was the first sound Arthur heard as he regain consciousness. The pod he was in opens up, as he gets out, nearly stumbling to his feet, as he stands up. His head throbs in pain, but he was alive. Like the gods have promised him. Though, that didn't stop the screaming that kept playing in his head. Of his victims, of his friends, his crew that he killed under Bhaal command. He shook his head, since right now is not the time to mourn nor was it the time to get caught up. He swallow his guilt like a bitter pill. He surveys the area.

The Nautiloid buzzes and groans like if if the very ship was alive. The first thing that caught his eye was a massive hole. He walks over to it, and saw the land of Avernus. Fires blazing of hellfire, he could hear the screams of the souls among other things. Though the half-elf didn't flinch nor felt fear of the sight. He just looked, at the area. Like if he was surveying a forest. "Avernus..of course." He said, looking at what he got, a bag of holding, and some plain leather armor. No weapons, not anything. He sighs, looking back at Avernus. "I need to get out of here, and quickly" He said to himself

He saw glowing device touching it, the second he does. He felt a rush of energy coursing though him. His headache disappearing, as he sighs in relief. He looked at everything getting as much information he could. Grabbing the illithid scripture knowledge being transfer into straight into his head. When he heard a voice "Help us, Help"

He followed the voice, up an elevator, finding a body on the a chair, their brain exposed. With one look Arthur immediately recognize it was an Intellect Devourer, for a moment Arthur thought of killing it. Then he thought he had no weapons, no tools. No it was better to help the creature, he helps the creature free from the corpse of the man, feeling the brain in his head, for a brief moment he felt one of his urges. To dig into the the soft tissue of the brain, but he shakes it away, before setting it down, as it grows legs and arms now on all 4's.

"Thank you! Now let's get to the helm!" it said happily

"What do I call you?" He said looking at it.

"Us, we are us." Us said looking? at arthur. As arthur nods. As they both begin to make their way though the Nautiloid, the ship shook as dragons flew around. Arthur, hearing something, behind him. Though before he could turn a young gith warrior, doing a backflip landed right in front of him. Aiming her blade right at his throat. The gith women, looking at him, her bright red hair flowing a bit in the wind.

"Abomination! This shall be your end!” She screamed, she said pointing the longsword at him.

Before Arthur could say, anything. He felt a pulse of psionic energy going though both him and the young gith warrior.

“You are no thrall! Vlaakith blesses me this day!” She screamed with a sigh of relief, as the young gith women looked at him, who was known as Lae'zel. "That pain we felt, we have been infected with mind flayer parasites, within days we will become Ghaik! You will aid me in escaping, and in return I shall offer a solution to our problem!” Said Lae'zel looked at the half-elf, known as Arthur.

"Alright, you got a deal. Let's get the hell out of here" He said looking at lae'zel. As she nods, though then a group of imps saw them. "But first we must deal with the vermin!"

As the battle starts, as lae'zel and Us begin to fight. The imps flying around dodging lae'zel attacks, as one of them went to arthur.. as it slashed at him. He quickly dodges, left and right. before reaching into his bag. Grabbing a book that he grabbed on the way there. Taking the hard spine of the book and slamming into the imp face. It screeches in pain before he begin to bash the fiend head in with the book, before looking at the dead mind flayer. Seeing a spike bulb on it, as he grabs it, as when another imp came at him, he kicked it right in the gut, then shoved the spiked bulb into it's mouth before shoving the creature into a group of the imps. The spike bulb going off tearing though the fiendish flesh like paper.. killing the small group of imps.

Lae'zel stood there raising an eye brow. "That..was interesting." she said,

Before she watched arthur looting the imps grabbing their scimitars, weighing them in his hand. Seeing his reflection in the blade, before placing them on him, as he then found a light crossbow. Looking at it, and aiming it. "I much prefer a bow, but this will have to do" He said to himself, putting that on his back.

"Are you finished?" Said Lae'zel

"Listen I will be better with weapons, or do you want me to walk around beating up fiends with books?" He asked looking at her

"Tsk! What ever, let's hurry up." She said, as they continue though the Nautiloid before they get to a pod, with a screaming half elf women. Banging against the glass. The dark hair half-elf women notices arthur and lae'zel.

"You! Get me out of this damn thing!" She screamed, as Atthur looked at the device. It was so alien, but he begins to think.

“We have no time for stragglers!” Lae'zel, looking at arthur

"If you were in there would you want me to help you, plus we can't leave her. The more people we have, the more chance we got to escape" Said arthur looking at lae'zel.

"Tsk! Tsk'va! Fine, but go to long, and we are leaving her." Lae'zel looking at him, knowing he was right but didn't want to admit it.

After some searching they found the device to let out the prisoner, as then..a feeling courses though Arthur not like his usual feelings. This feeling of power, like he could will the device to listen to him. He narrow his eyes and follow though with it. As the device, hums, and opens up.

The half-elf women, fell to the floor, as Arthur offers a hand which the half-elf grabbed it, getting up. "Thanks," She said

Then like lae'zel another pang of pain of psionic energy going though him, like him and Lae'zel. The half-elf was also infected. After the pain went away, she shook her head before looking at lae'zel.

"You keep dangerous company" She said

"Dangerous company is something you need in a fight" He replied

"That's true" She said looking at the gith before back at Arthur.

As Arthur took one look at her, and saw the symbol on her armor. A shar worshiper, which immediately made her think of Viconia De Vir. Another shar worshiper he traveled with a long time ago. So he didn't mind traveling with one, "Names Arthur Thornwind" He said

"Shadowheart, hang on" She said grabbing a weird device placing it in her own bag of holding.

"Enough of the pleasantries, we need to get out of here!" Lae'zel said

"She's right, let's get out of here"

Before they go, Arthur glances at the Nautiloid tank, thinking. Before nodding grabbing it putting into his bag of holding.

"Istik! Come on! I do also hope you are better with those swords, then you are with book" Lae'zel said

"A book?" Asked shadowheart

"Don't ask" Said arthur, as they begin to go, to helm which was covered in fiends and mind flayers fighting, as the mind flayer command them to go to the wheel. As the fight started, arthur cutting down imps and hell beast around him. Clearing a path for the group, as just then while they were making their way. Shadowheart tripped on a corpse, as she fell to the ground as Zhalk looked at her. Raising his flaming great sword, about to swing down at her. She closes her eyes..before..nothing happening. She opens them, as there now standing over her. Was Arthur, grumbling, using his scimitars to block the attack. The hot fire, of the sword, mere inches from his face, as he struggles with the Fiend.

"Shadowheart, do you know the spell command" He said, struggling, As just then Zhalk raising his sword again, but then hitting arthur in the gut with the hilt, and kicked him, pushing him away, before arthur, shakes off the pain. Running back at him, keeping his attention.

"Right, I see what you mean." As Shadowheart got up, looking at Zhalk. Her eyes glowing, as she says a quick prayer

"I command to drop!" She screams.

As Zhalk eyes widen, without realizing. his body did what it was told dropping the sword.

"Gith! Catch!" Yelled Arthur kicking the flaming sword tossing it to lae'zel who caught it by the hilt, then cleaving two imps behind her.

"Hmph not bad for Ishtik." She said,

As Arthur looked at Zhalk, that's when he got to work, punching Zhalk in the face, before taking his scimitars near Zhalk head.. with one clear slice, Zhalk head went flying off, blood shooting out like a fountain. Just then, two fiends came in, as backup flying towards them.

"Fuck!" Yelled shadowheart

"shadowheart, use your fire bolt" Said Arthur

"Why! They are resistant to fire, and plus I am not a good aim with it." She said

"Not on them, on the tanks" Arthur said looking at her, as he had set the tanks of purple liquid in a way that was the perfect trap.

Shadowheart eyes widen before nodding. "That I can hit" She said, fire sparks in her hand, "IGNIS!" She yelled, throwing a fire bolt, at the tanks, before the fiends could react the tank was hit.. as a massive explosion went off blasting the two fiends and the mind flayer. Scorching one of the fiends, and the mind flayer. The other fiend growled angrily, before looking up at arthur. Though just then a bolt went though right between it's eye. Arthur holding the crossbow, as all the enemies were dead, before they got to the transponder. Arthur connecting the two, causing the nautloid to fly faster soon transporting the ship into the Faerûn again.

However the stability of the ship was going crazy throwing everyone around. Slamming Arthur into the wall, shadowheart and lae'zel couldn't be seen as the ship was coursing though the air, as arthur soon landed on the other side. Next to a window, looking at a mind flyer looking at him. Before one of the scarp metal hits him in the face sending him flying out of the ship.. The last thing he saw, before passing out from the hit of the metal, was him hauling down to the ground. Unaware just before he hit the ground it was stopped by unseen force.

Chapter Text

Arthur wakes up, looking up at the blue sky. He lays there for a second, wondering if he was finally dead, but as he takes a breath. He realizes he was still alive, he sighs. Before starting to stand up looking around, he reconize the area around him. From the maps, he would research when he was younger. He was at River Chionthar, a beautiful river that flows into Baldur's Gate. So close to his home, it broguht a sense joy in his heart. Before it was quickly filled with dread at the same time. Thinking of the chaos he had cursed while under his father control. He once again shook his head.

"Focus, this is your mess to clean up. Now is not the time to mourn." He said to himself. Checking for any injuries. Nothing to bad some bruise, some scratches nothing he hasn't handle before. Nothing a health potion wouldn't heal. Though something caught his eye among the wreckage.

The dark hair half-elf sharren women. Shadowheart, He walks up to her, looking down at the dark hair women. Arthur then notice that strange device. It looked alien, from the look he could see the Githyanki runes on the device. He then gently placed his fingers on shadowheart neck, checking for her pulse. Feeling her heartbeat, he sighs in relief "Good, she's alive" He said to himself looking at young women.

He then put a hand on her shoulder,begin to shake her gently "Shadowheart, wake up" He said to her, as she blinks starting to open her eyes. as she exhales as she sits up quickly looking around before looking up at Arthur the half wood elf.

“You’re alive? I’m alive? How is this possible?” She said as she begin to sit up.

"I don't know maybe something divine, but that doesn't matter since we are alive" He said looking at her

"True enough," She said sighing putting the object into her bag.

"Where's our githyanki friend" He said looking around

"I wouldn't be so quick to call her friend, she probably already went ahead." She said with a bit of disgust

"What's your issue with her? You barley know each other" He said looking at shadowheart

"Githyanki are known for being brutish, she would of cause us trouble in the long run" She said looking at Arthur.

"Not all githyanki are like that, I also get the feeling you have other reasons for not wanting her around." He talking about the object

"I assure you, I have no idea what you are talking about" Said shadowheart.

"Look I don't want to push you, I am just stating things. Anyways, there should be some type of village nearby. You should be safe." He said looking at her

"Wait, I think we should stick together" She said looking at him.

"We? You want to travel together? Are you sure." He said looking at her

"Your reliable, plus we both need each other, we both know what’s at stake." She said looking at him

As Arthur was quiet, looking at her, thinking before nodding "Alright, we can travel together." He said "Let's get going"

"Good though wait," She said stopping arthur again "“I wanted to thank you again. For freeing me early. It would’ve been all too easy for you to run right past my pod. But you didn’t. I'll remember that, lead the way." She said

"It was no problem shadowheart, I couldn't just leave you there. Though if find a long bow, let me know. While i am okay with using a crossbow, I much prefer a bow" He said looking at her.

"I'll keep an eye out, so I have a quick question. You are a ranger are you not?" She said looking at him.

"Hm oh yeah, I am, a ranger and fighter why?" He asked with his eye brow raised.

"Well, I was just curious what kind of ranger are you? Are you the animal summoning one? O-Or..?"

"Well i can summon some animals, but no I am not animal trainer. I am a hunter and a arcane archer." He said looking at her

"Okay, good was just curious is all" She said sighing in relief. As they begin to walk together, looting corpses and fighting intellect devours.

Soon they reach the other end.

"Hey you!" Said pale elf, wearing more fancy looking clothes. As Shadowheart and Arthur go over to him. "Hurry, I've got one of those brain things cornered." He turns around pointing to tall grass. "There, in the grass. You can kill it, can't you? Like you killed the others" He said, looking at the tall grass.

As Arthur walks up looking, as just then a boar came out of running. Though then Arthur heard something, the sound of knife being sheathed out, he quickly turned around to see the pale elf branding a knife, though arthur doesn't flinch he reaches for his simitars

"Take one more step, and I will make you eat that knife" He said looking at the pale elf

"You can try, but first you will tell me what you know." Said astarion, keeping his knife at the ready.

"I saw you on the ship, you're in league with them aren't you? Those tentacled -argh!" He yelped in pain,

As once again a wave of psionic energy courses though Arthur and the pale elf, the tadpole connecting them. "You have one to, I saw it when..whatever that was. To think I was ready to decorate the ground with your innards. Apologies." He said, to Arthur

"Apology accepted. Honestly If I was you I might of done the same thing" He said

"A kindred spirit. Names Astarion, I was in Baldur's Gate when those beast snatched me. What about you?"

"Well I don't want to much into it, but I woke up on the naotloid no idea how long I was out for, then met a gthyanki women, and then found shadowheart. Now I am here." He said to astarion

"My my, you've been busy. So, did you learn anything about these worms while wandering the ship?" He asked

As Arthur was quiet "Yes, i did unfortunately they will turn us into mind flayers." He said bluntly.

"Turn us into - Ha..HAHAHHAHAHHA! Of course it will turn me into a monster, what else did I expect?" He said, looking down. Something behind his eyes telling another story, but arthur not wanting to push it, nodded

"You know, you should travel with us our odds are better together" He said looking at astarion.

"You know, I was ready to go this alone, but maybe sticking with a herd isn't such a bad idea. And anyone that can crash a mind flayer ship and walk away seems like a good person to know" He said looking at Arthur

"Hey I did my best, it's not like the thing had a manual on how it works." He said looking at him

"True, all right. I accept lead the way" He said

As shadowheart looked at Arthur "He's an interesting fellow, let's just hope he cares more about us then his hair" She said with a smug tone.

As the 3 continued to walk, they watch Arthur killing a hurt mind flayer with his boot. Before they reach a glowing glyph of a rock. He looks at it about to touch it, before a hand shot out.

"A hand? Anyone?" said the voice though the portal

As Arthur looked at the hand, for a split second, he imagine grabbing his blade, and one clean cut slicing the hand right off, as he shakes his head. Growling to himself. "I will not let you take me again." He said to himself in a mumble, before grabbing the hand, as he begins to pull, and pull hard. Soon pulling the human wizard out of the stone, as soon both of them begin to get up. As the human wizard dust himself off.

"Oof , hello!" He said grabbing Arthur hand shaking it "I am gale of waterdeep, apologizes I am usually better at this." He said with a smile on his face.

"What? at introductions?" Said Arthur looking at Gale.

"At magic." He said with smile, "Say, But I know you. Don't I? In a manner of speaking you were on that nautloid as well. You gave an imp a good thrashing with a book, normally I use them to read but who am I to argue your talents of using them on other measures" He said

"I didn't have any weapons, it was that or use my fist."

"Look, I am not judging I was just mighty impress." He said with a smile

"Wait you beat up an Imp? With a book?" Said Shadowheart.

"Ooh I knew I liked you friend. I would love to have seen that" Said Astarion with a grin on his face laughing at the idea.

"So how did you end up in a the stone?" He asked

"Well the short of is, while I was plummeting to what I believe to be my certain death, I spied a glimmer quite near where I had estimated to be where my body was about to impact. Realizing the glimmer was magic in nature, I reach out to a weaving of words and found myself on the other side as it were. How about you? How did survive the crash?" He asked

"I survive, I think that's all that matters." He said, looking at him.

"I quite agree, but I have the unfortunate suspicion your survival is still very much in jeopardy. Back on the ship, you too were on the receiving end of rather unwelcome insertion into the ocular region, were you not?" He asked

"I wouldn't phrased it better myself" He said looking at gale

"There is no sugar coating it, is there? Perhaps you know a healer or someone skilled with a sewing needle?" He jokingly asked.

"Well I know how to sew, and I can tend to basic wounds and aliments. But when it comes to alien parasites? Sadly no." He said back.

"Most few can, I suppose. It's not a common aliment." He said sighing

"How about we travel together? Best to stick together then wonder around. Surely together we can find a healer together" He said to Gale, his arms crossed.

"Most excellent. Lead the way, but before we go, you wouldn't have to be a wizard would you?" He asked looking at arthur.

"No I am not, I mean I Know a few spells, and have a sense of the arcane energy, but I don't study in magic." He said

"I see, not saying that's a bad thing, but if we manage to meet up with a wizard. Perhaps you can let me talk to them." He said smiling.

As the group continued to walk till they heard people talking.

As the tiefling male, was looking up at a captured Lae'zel. "Zorru was right, yellow as a toad, twice as ugly." He said looking up at lae'zel.

"The thing is dangerous, leave it for the goblins to deal with" Said the female tiefling.

"And what if it escapes-oh a guest?" Said the male tiefling looking at Arthur.

As just then a psionic energy hit Arthur, as he could hear lae'zel voice "Get rid of them" She said to him, though her mind.

Arthur looked at the two "You two should go, i'll deal with the thing"

As the tiefling man and women look at each other "Alright," He said "We should get going ether, that blast shook our camp good." He said

"Camp? Can I ask where? We are dire need of a healing" He asked looking at them.

"Of course, it's just north-west from here, ask for nettie" He said, before they leave.

"Cut me down" Said lae'zel looking down at Arthur and his group

"It wouldn't hurt to say please" He said looking at her, causing shadowheart and astarion to smirk a bit.

"Never" Said lae'zel

As Arthur rolled his eyes, before shooting down the cage letting her fall as she lands on her feet. Before standing up

"So the tadpole hasn't scrambled that brain of yours, auspicious." She said

"I still don't trust her," Said shadowheart

"I didn't remeber asking you to trust me elf." Replied lae'zel

"Half-Elf thank you very much, I kn-" Before Shadowheart could finish

"Enough! Both of you. Though, I must ask for your name" Asked Arthur.

"You travel with Lae'zel, of crèche K'liir" She said. "The cure I offer, is more then any words of affirmation or thanks that comes from me" She said

"Right, however I would like to vist first to explore our options. But I swear to you Lae'zel we will go this crèche of yours" He said to her.

"Tsk! fine," She said looking away, still having the everburn blade on her back.

"You know I don't see many githyanki around these parts" He said looking at her.

"I expect I am your first" She said looking at Arthur

"Actually no I have crossed paths with a few githyanki in the past, even fought some and fought with side by side with them." He said

"Really? Hmm, interesting. I suppose back on the nautloid, your skills with weapons wasn't anything to laugh at. But still, I suspect they were very desperate to need your help." She replied, to Arthur looking him up and down.

"Anyways, I think we should all make camp. Get some rest" Said Arthur.

"Make camp? With these abominations in our head?!" Said Lae'zel.

"A tired soldier, is a dead soldier. It's better to get some rest now, then try to push forward." He said to Lae'zel

"I agree, a nice rest will do wonders" Said Gale

"Tsk! Fine. We will take rest, but the minute dawn breaks we make haste." Lae'zel said.

As at camp, the moon rise high. Arthur was now wearing a white tunic with some pants, he rubs his neck. Before looking at Lae'zel who was sharpening her sword. Astarion, fidgeting with his knife, then there was gale at the campfire. Warming his hands, as Arthur walks up to him, as Gale stands there.

"Go to Hell." Said gale not turning around.

"Well a good evening to you too, mr.Dekarios" He said looking at him.

As Gale laughed, smiling "You're a good sport. 'Go to Hell' an everyday expression. So trivial, it's almost meaningless. But we've seen Hell. It's real and isn't trivial. Devils, Dragons, Mind Flayers - they used to be abstracts. Pictures on a piece of paper. Now we have tadpoles slithering though our heads like carnivorous foeti. That's not abstract." He said looking at Arthur.

"I wouldn't think to much on it, we will find help, and get these tadpoles out gale." He said looking at gale.

"That's the spirit. Thank you for listening, I think I want to be alone for a bit" He said smiling as Arthur nods, before heading over to shadowheart.

"The leader of the pack comes to chat, what were you two talking about? You and the wizard" She asked.

"Just things, mostly our next plans" He replied

"Good, the faster we get these tadpoles out of our skull the better" She replied looking at Arthur.

"I am surprised you haven't been thinking how we survive the fall. perhaps we may have a guardian angel?" He asked

AS shadowheart giggles "A guardian angel? What you think an Aasimar is following us around" She giggles.

"Contrary to popular belief. Not all Aasimar are good people, but what got an issue with Aasimar." He said with a smirk.

"Oh no, I don't. I just think they will have an issue with me, I don't think they be able to handle me, but if maybe they were tall, funny, know how to take a joke, and maybe a good dancer then I might give them some of my time" She said with a smirk.

"Well if I find an aasmair like that, I'll be sure to let you know" He said "Good night shadowheart, try to get some sleep." He said looking at her, noding.

"Thanks Arthur you too." She said smiling softly, before sighing..

Arthur then walked over to lae'zel, who wasn't really in the mood to talk, before getting to astarion.

"So we are camping out here, hmm I guess it's better then nothing." HE said looking around.

"Sorry, we don't have a bed for you to lie in" He said looknig at him.

"Oh darling, it's just I am not used to sleeping outside is all. Though I am not tired at the moment, honestly I could use something to drink to calm my nerves." He said

"I can make some tea or some coffee if you like" He said to astarion

"You are a sweetheart, but no tea or coffee isn't for me. But, I don't think I am going to bed just yet, think I am just go for a walk to clear my head. So I'll keep first watch." He said smiling at Arthur.

"Alright thank you Astarion." He said before heading to his sleeping bag, laying down then looking up at the stars.

As everyone in camp, was starting to sleep. The noises of running water, the crackling fire. The sound of some of the group already starting to fall asleep. Arthur looking up at the sky, his sapphire blue eyes, reflecting stars on it. He begin to close his eyes, though unlike the others. His sleep was not going to peaceful, and the start of many nights he will be plague with nightmares...

Chapter Text

Arthur drifts to sleep, though in his dream.. when he open his eyes. He was back on his boat, all those years ago. His hair shorter, tied in a bun. He opens his mouth but it was like he was repeating what he said back then.

"Alright my men, this one of last of the few bhaal temples left. Only a few more then we can return home. Not having to worry about Bhaal, rearing his ugly head" He said with a grin, on his face. It was like arthur could both see in third person, but also in the eyes of his younger self. His eyes widen looking around. Seeing his old friends, Havoc, Ciel, Amelia, and many more. Then saw his second in command, Riden. Who he didn't notice, looked at Arthur guilty. Riden was an elf, Before havoc, a Tiefling druid grabbed Arthur by his shoulders "I bet your excited High Harper Arthur, soon you will see high harper Jaheira huh~?" Said the Tiefling man with a grin.

"You have no idea, we been out on sea for 3 years, soon we will reach back home. Be back with all our families." Said the young arthur.

"N-No, turn back now. Don't go in there" Said arthur, but no words escape his mouth. It was like he was a husk, all that came out was air, like he couldn't scream. Before he blinked, then he was going down a set of stairs, Arthur and Riden in front, as they were getting far from the group.

"Captain, High Harper Arthur..I..I'm sorry." He said looking at Arthur

"Sorry? For what?" He said looking at him, as just then an arrow was shot, hitting arthur in the shoulder, as then arrowed glowed, a pure blood red color. As he felt something banging in his head, like something scratching. Voices getting louder

"I..I made a deal with them, they had my family, and they told me If I gave you to them. They will released them, also paying off my debts.. I am sorry Arthur.. I am so sorry.." He said looking at him, as Arthur wobbles around putting a hand on the wall.. his vision going in and out.. his bloodlust increasing.. the next thing he knew riden was long gone having ran for it. He begin to walk, as he saw a light..

"There you are High Harper Arthur, are you okay.." Said Havoc holding a torch, with some of the other harpers looking at him.

Arthur, now watching himself, as he tried to tell the others to run, but his voice now a whisper, no matter how hard he tried to scream. It wouldn't raise. He watched himself grabbing the bow on his back, pulling it out, and grabbing a magical arrow,

"Harpers..." His voice came out, shaky and hoarse. "Run" He said,

"W-What? What do you mean Arthur?" Said Ciel,

As Arthur gritted his teeth so hard blood dripped from his mouth "RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!" He yelled, before he raised a his bow, shooting an arrow it hit the stone wall. As giant vines like thorns begin to sprout and begin to grab onto harper who screamed in pain. Some of the vines piercing into some of the harpers, the vines now dripping with blood. Arthur who put another arrow in his bow, shooting at a harper, entering him.. The harper begins to choke and cough, and scream in pain, as thorns begin to shoot out of his body, ripping the man apart from inside and out.

"Arthur stop! It's us! Your friends!" Yelled Havoc, before arthur jumps with his simitars landing next to 4 of them. Havoc, Ciel, Amelia, and another harper. Blood shooting, out, as they all clutch their throats, Ciel and amelia falling to the ground. Havoc, tried to use his magic to start healing himself.. though it was hard to speak the vocal components for the spell when blood filled his throat, choking on it. He looked up to see Arthur, staring down at him. Arthur, who was watching his younger self doing it. "No! Stop please! D-" Before he could finish, he felt and heard the crunch of his foot hitting Havoc skull and the floor and his boot. He watched himself grabbing a smoke powder arrow launching into a group, as the air now smelled of brunt flesh, and screaming continued to echo. Arthur butchering his some of his closest friends. Before he could do anything else..

Chains shot out of the darkness grabbing arthur, wrapping around his arms, and legs. Like cuffs. And one around his throat, as he fell to the floor grabbing at the stone floor "No..Not again! Please no! Stop!" He screamed and yelled..but no one can hear, as he was dragged into a dark place. Lifting him off the ground, chains wrapping around his body now keeping him chained up tight.. in the corners of his own mind. Forced to watch and feel his body slaughter, having no control over his body, only force to watch. He heard himself laugh, as his younger self was butchering the harpers he called friends, he called his crew. Them screaming for him to stop, begging him for mercy. Force to listen to it all, he watched his body, going to to the ship shooting people with his arrow. His arrow landing in the jugular of throats, each arrow landing with deadly precision. All of it with a grin on his face, like he was taking glee from their screams. One arrow going though the eye sockets of one of the harpers.. He begins to laugh, cackling. Tears seeping down his eyes,

Before arthur eyes open, he shot up. He looked around he was back at the camp, though he didn't notice the camp was empty, he got up. His legs felt weak, he was falling all over himself, Soon getting to the water splashing his face with water, before looking down his hands. Seeing his hands now covered in blood.. his eyes widen, looking the water that was a sea of crimson, bodies starting to float up. More victims he killed while under Bhaal control. Just then a hand shot out of the crimson sea, grabbing arthur throat, he thrashed and struggle to no use. As a figure begin to float up, holding arthur throat, the figure had a cloak on, as Arthur looked his eyes widen. It was himself

"You killed them Arthur, their beautiful blood is on your hands. Do you really think you can redeem yourself after everything you done~ No matter what you did, you are still a bhaalspawn, a child of murder and that's what you are. A murderer! A monster!"

As then the other him, pulled him into sea, as he sink into the sea hearing the screams all around him, hands pulling him deeper, he was drowning in it. Unable to breath his hand reaching out to the surface. He sinks deeper and deeper..

Before he actually woke up this time, sitting up panting, looking around the camp, his eyes frantically looking around. seeing everyone was asleep. He gets up, heading to the water.

He was now looking at his reflection, he splashes his face with the cold water before sitting down his heart still beating so fast. His hands were shaking, he panted. He couldn't hear anything, other then his heartbeat. Though after a bit, he begin to calm down. Looking at the water, the full moon reflecting on it's water.

"I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry everyone..." He mumbles to himself, his hands shaking. He wanted to cry, he wanted to break down. But he takes a deep breath, since right now he believes there isn't time for that. He didn't have time to mourn, he needed to keep his head straight. At least that what he believes. Taking deep breaths calming down, his hands still shaking, he thought of the one person to help calm him down. His wife, Jaheira, the love of his life. The last time he saw her, he looked up at the stars, wondering if she was looking at the stars as well. What he wouldn't give to see her again, to hear her voice again. He do anything just to see her face again. That helped him, get his head on straight. He wanted to redeem himself, he wanted to avenge the lives he took. He didn't want to let his urges out again, even though Selûne told him he might have to. He didn't want to, scared he might loose himself again. The idea he might hurt innocents again, it made him sick to his stomach. Leaving a bitter taste in his mouth.

For now, he chooses to relax against a tent, looking at the water. To scared to go back to sleep, to be taken back to that nightmare. He just thought of his wife, and his best friend Minsc & Boo. Hoping, preying to every god that they are okay. He found himself smiling, the first real smile he had in a bit, thinking of Jaheira and them.

Unaware, he was currently being watched. Shadowheart who woken up after hearing something, saw him sitting there, not knowing what was going on. She looked away, before going back to bed.

Chapter Text

As morning rises, many of the members of the camp begin to wake up. Though the first thing that hit most of them, was the smell of food cooking, Gale was the first to walk up, to see the sight before him. Arthur was hunched over, by the fire with a frying pan, cooking breakfast. Nothing to fancy, some eggs, omelets and bacon. From a boar he hunted, down. The rest of the meat has properly made for future use. "Well now, I didn't know you could cook Arthur, perhaps I should of let you cook us dinner last night" Said Gale with a smile on his face.

"It's no big deal Gale, I was up and I agree with Lae'zel we should keep moving. I also made tea and some coffee. I also made some food rations for some short rests if we need it." He said, cooking his hair having been pulled back with a make shift string.

"Hmm I must admit the food does smell.. somewhat appetizing, but it will not hold anything compare to githyanki dishes." She said looking at the food being cooked.

"Well I do apologize lae'zel, I didn't have any githyanki ingredients to make anything from your homeland." He replied not looking away from the food. "Though I do hope this will at least sustain you." He said looking at her

"I supposed it will" Said lae'zel, before getting a plate and some tea.

"Careful Lae'zel try not to choke on it" Said Shadowheart, grabbing a plate as well with some tea.

"Well I am not really hungry, but I must say" Said astarion looking at arthur and everything he has done. "You know I heard people called some rangers useless, but how great it is for you prove them wrong" He said with a smile looking at Arthur.

"I'll take that as a compliment." Said arthur, as after everyone got their plate, and their drink. He begins to clean up, putting the dishes away back in his bag.

"I must say this is delicious Arthur, thank you again for making this for us" Said Gale smiling.

"So..." Said shadowheart drinking tea, before glancing at Arthur. "How did you sleep Arthur" She asked.

Normally such a question wasn't that big issue, it was such a common question. But for Arthur it was like loaded crossbow pointing right at him. He stopped what he was doing and just sat there. Looking at his hands, for a split second it was like he could still see the blood from his dream on them causing his hands to twitch. He blinked, though still looked at his hands. Before slowly glancing towards shadowheart. His blue sapphire eyes now focus on her, "I slept..okay why do you ask?" He said looking at her

As the camp was quiet, it was like even the birds stop singing. The only sound was the crackling fire, and the sound some of the others still eating. As Shadowheart just stared back, looking back at the half-wood elf.

"Oh no reason, it's just you were tossing and turning in your sleep. I am also pretty sure I also saw you next to the water." She said eating her food, looking at Arthur.

"Ah, it was just a nightmare is all." He said back to her, wanting her to drop it.

"That's understandable, with everything that happen to us. I mean we been to hell, not many people can carry that sentiment. Not to mention our unwelcome guest in our head. I think nightmares will pretty prone to happen" Said Gale with a smile on his face.

"I guess that's true." Said shadowheart, as she drinks her tea.

"Tsk! Enough of this small talk, we should be going not sitting here and talking. The true nightmare, is still in our heads. Going to turn us into ghaik! Though it's strange. I.. ugh it doesn't matter" Said lae'zel, thinking to herself. "let's get going"

Said Lae'zel as the party nods starting to get up and get ready to leave.

As Astarion, sees Arthur stringing a bow. The Bow was made nicely, with interesting carvings in it.

"Ah so the ranger, finally got his bow? I am curious why not just stick with a crossbow?" He asked looking at Arthur.

"I just prefer it, plus with a crossbow there is only so much power you can put behind it." He said, stringing the bow with ease, before standing up.

"What do you mean?" He asked

"Well, a crossbow was made to only handle a few things, while yes it can be stronger then your average bow, but for me. It honestly holds me back a bit. I can change the power, and distance it will go, at a moment notice." He said to astarion.

"Ah I see, I geuss that make since. But you really about to tell me you can shoot stronger then a crossbow. I mean c-" Before he could even finish, arthur pulls back the string, with an arrow notched, aiming it at the the training dummy before releasing the arrow. It was sent flying. So fast, that it not only hit the target it went though the training dummy and embedded it's self into the rock behind it.

"By the gods, that was a sight" Said gale eyes widen.

"Bloody hell..." Said Astarion, walking over, trying to pull the arrow out. But it wouldn't budge not even a little. "hells, it's really in there." He said as he looks at Arthur, like really looking at him. Looknig him up and down, then looks like he was thinking to himself about something.

"Hmm, that was actually impress. Starting to believing your tale you told that you fought with my kin" Lae'zel said looking at the arrow.

As Arthur walks over, before grasping the arrow in the rock. Waiting a second, before yanking it out of the rock. He then places it back into his bag. Before he looked at the others, nodding to them before they left camp.

Soon the party found themselves at a set of ruins, grass and vines have overgrown around some of the structures.

"Fascinating, it is a crypt. One can only wonder what untold stories are in there." Said Gale looking at the stone.

"Tsk! We have more pressing matters then go into dusty crypt." Said Lae'zel

"So Lae'zel doesn't want to go to the crypt?" She was quiet a bit "I say we go in" She said, "We could find something useful in there after all" Said shadowheart.

Lae'zel, shooting a glare at Shadowheart, grumbling.

"I agree with Shadowheart, we should go in. Not just to piss off our githyanki friend. But we could find treasures, we do need supplies." Said Astarion

"He has a point Lae'zel, don't worry. We will find help, but going further with what we got now could spell trouble." Said Arthur looking Lae'zel

"Are you joking!? Tsk! the more we wait, the higher the chance of turning into ghaik" Said Lae'zel angrily.

"Lae'zel! If you wish to go further without us that is up to you. But we both notice something, I know how ceremorphosis works, day 1: Fever and memory loss. Everyone is anyone feeling sick or feeling hot?" Arthur asked looking at the group.

The group was quiet, they shook their head no.

"Day 2: Hallucinations and greying skin. The only real pale one here is Astarion but I am assuming he was always like this" Arthur said looking at Astarion

"Ha guilty as charge darling, my skin is flawless~" He said with a smirk.

"So that means there is something unique about the tadpole or something else. I understand to be cautious, but running head first into danger with no supplies is even more dangerous. We will get help, and removes these tadpoles. For now, we need to be extra cautious." He said looking at lae'zel.

Lae'zel was quiet, looking down trying to think before grumbling

"Tsk'va!" Before saying something in githyanki, "Fine" She said begrudgingly,

As Shadowheart had a smug smirk on her face, looking at Lae'zel. Lae'zel looked at her angrily. "Keep your eyes to yourself shadowheart" Said Lae'zel angrily.

Chapter Text

As the party got closer to the Overgrown ruins, they begin to hear what sounded like people arguing. Arthur, in the front, told his party to stop for a second as they overheard the conversation of the local bandits. Talking about the nautloid crash, before they could get any closer. One of the bandits spotted Lae'zel due to the everburn blade on her back,

"You! Not Another step, you hear me?! Gimblebock! We got company!" Screamed, Warryn. As the group stopped, before a gnome man wearing scale mail.

"Well what do we have here, other people here for the crypt, or maybe it's the crash your after. Well to bad! It's our all of it! In fact, that is pretty sword your.. what ever it is, got there. I think we'll be taking that" Said Gimblebock looking at them, before looking at arthur, looknig him up and down.

"look, we are just passing though, but I wouldn't suggest it. Who knows what in there, and what you find at the crash." Said Arthur, not dropping his guard,

"Well look at you, getting..cold feet, I don't think you heard me." Said Gimblebock.

As Arthur immediately recognize what he meant, his eyes narrowed to the wizard they had on the other end. Quelenna grinning launching an ice knife, right at the party. Primary at Shadowheart! Though Arthur then stood in front of her, raising his arms, getting hit instead of the ice knife, which exploded into cold, and frosty blast. Frost covering Arthur armor, he clenches his teeth, from the bitter cold. Though, he then raised his bow, notching an arrow. Firing it in retaliation. The arrow shooting like a rocket.. the mage women, had no time to dodge. Before the arrow pierces right between her eyes, she stumples a bit, before falling off the pillar she was on, onto the ground below. Blood soaking the earth.

Arthur, rocks his head back and forth popping his neck, taking a deep breath getting a second wind. It was like he was shrugging off the attack. Before he glances at the bandits, his eyes now cold.

"You know I was going to try to talk you out of this combat, but you just made a huge mistake" He said coldly looking down at Gimblebock.

"Boss he got Quelenna!" Yelled Taman

"No? Really?! I couldn't of guessed when that arrow pieced her head like a pincushion and her falling face first into the stone. I thought she was asleep!" He said angriliy. "Get them!" Yelled Gimblebock

As fight broke out, as Astarion shooting arrows at Warryn, causing him to stumble. Before lae'zel, using her sword, to push him off the box he was on, to the ground below.

Taman rushes gale, but as he swinged his sword. But as it made contact with gale robe. It bounced off, a thin blue glow radiates from where the bandit sword hit as gale smirked.

"Mama always said to make sure to put on your jacket when you go out" He said, glad to have made sure to put on his mage armor before leaving camp. Gale eyes then glowed, as he fires off a few magic missiles hitting Taman, before shadowheart took her mase, hitting the taman in the gut, then shoving him. In front of Gimblebock, as eyes widen looking at them. Though before he could bark an order, an arrow hits him right in the head, he stumples, a bit.. before getting looking up.

As Arthur eyes glow, his bow begin to glow in arcane nature, with blue magic, as he raises his bow. "You started this." He stated before firing a piercing shot, the arrow turning the wind like razor blades, getting both Gimblebock and Taman. Their bodies bloodied, before they fell to the ground dead. The party sighs, as they all stretch some dusting off their wardrobe. Others cleaning their blade, Astarion waiting no time to start looting the bodies of the bandits they just fought. Everyone was doing something, so Shadowheart, walked over to arthur. "Arthur can we speak?" Asked Shadowheart looking at the half-elf ranger.

"Of course shadowheart, what is it?" Asked Arthur looking at her, he was picking up some of the arrows of the bodies, of the bandits they just killed. "Well it's just" Shadowheart, started before pausing. "Look, I know I can be distant, honestly I want to thank you for not pushing any information from me. You know about my past, I feel as if most of the time, people would try to dig into each other pasts. Though not you, you don't really push us to speak about our stories." She said looking at Arthur.

"We all have pasts, we all have shadows. To expose them to the light it's not my business. Besides like you, I tend to like to keep things in the dark at least for a bit." He said looking at the young half-elf women. "The darkness can provide safety, yes.." She said.

"But it can also provide dangers as well." He replied "Darkness can shelter yes, but it can hide, it can twist. Light can be blinding, and searing. But darkness can be cold and deafening. Sometimes it's easier to hide in the darkness. But, sometimes to much comfort can be a curse. But, both can't be there without the other." He said not looking at her.

"didn't know you were so wise, but we are getting off topic. What I am trying to say is" Said shadowheart.

"Hey, there is another door down here!" Yelled gale,

"Right we'll be right there!" Yelled Arthur back. "You were saying shadowheart." Said Arthur.

"Huh oh uh.." She looks around, "We can discuss it later." Said Shadowheart smiling a bit nodding. Arthur nods, before walking away. Just then, with no one noticing, a purple glow came from shadowheart hand, making her wince in pain. Gritting her teeth grabbing her hand instantly. Looking at the small hold in her hand, sighing.

As the group reaches the door, covered in vines and other overgrown weeds. Before they got close.

Arthur stops them. "Wait a moment" "What is it? Do you since something hunter?" Said Astarion. "No , it's just.. that was really small bandit group. I wouldn't be surprised, there were more in there. I am willing to bet that is someone on the other side of the door waiting." Said Arthur.

"Hmm, that is actually astute observation, he's most likely right" Said gale thinking. "So what do we do?" Asked astarion. "I may..have an Idea" Said Shadowheart, as she walks over. Putting her hand on her face, before hr body glows slighty. Before in front of everyone, she casted the spell Disguise Self 

The party watched as Shadowheart transformes herself into almost mirror of Gimblebock the gnome bandit leader they just killed. Though they were still wearing the armor shadowheart was wearing.

"Well it's a good thing, the door doesn't have eyes." Said lae'zel. Though without saying it, Lae'zel was impressed by Shadowheart skills.

Shadowheart then slammed her fist on the door "Open up, you idiots!" She said in a really convincing Gimblebock voice, there was silence at the door before Andorn. The person behind the door answer. "Gimblebock? Is that really you? I heard noises, is everything alright?" Asked Andorn.

"Is everything alright?! If everything wasn't alright, I wouldn't talk to you now would I! Now open up!" Yelled shadowheart as Gimblebock.

"R-R-Right of course, but first what's the password." asked Andorn

"Password? Password!? What in bloody hells are you talking about a password, the password is me shoving my foot up your as-" Before they could finish.

"Alright, alright jeez..just making sure it was you" Said Andorn unlocking the door. As shadowheart changed back, she glances at lae'zel, with smug smirk on her face.

"Well done shadowheart" Said Arthur, "Now, on my count we rush in, and everyone.. be safe" He said, as the other nods. As Arthur, then begins to count, before he waited listening to the door, then he slams it open, hitting Andorn with it. Causing him to be knocked down, before he could make a sound Lae'zel jumped in, slashing downwards killing Andorn instantly. She then, looks at Arthur. He nodded.

They didn't have time to take a look around before thrust into more combat, the rest of the bandits being caught by surprise. But soon recovered, the group exchange in combat, as Haseid a barbarian, who went into a rage didn't notice Astarion sneaking up behind him. Before Astarion thrusted a dagger right into the side of Haseid neck, as he laugsh "Got you, you annoying oaf!" He said grinning before blinking.. as Haseid, didn't really react. He just turned around looking down at the small vampire, grabbing the knife and pulling out of his body. Looking more pissed off anything, "Oh uh.. you know what, I want to apologize for my actions. Let's talk about this." Said astarion backing up. Haeid took his club, about to hit astarion.

"Astarion, watch out!" Yelled arthur pushing Astarion out of the way, before.

WHAM! 

Arthur was clocked by the club right in the chin, sending him tumbling in the air, before he fell down to the ground, he was a bit knocked out of it. Though before he regain his composure before seeing the club heading straight down at him. He quickly rolled out of the way, though as he begin to make his way back up. An arrow was launched hitting him right in the foot, vines growing out. He glanced it was another ranger using ensnaring strike. Then before he could focus on that.. a blast of cold frost hit him. As the mage casted ray of frost onto him. Hitting him in the back making him groan, his hands hitting the ground a bit. Haseid grinned, raising his club to strike Arthur again. Before he stopped for a split second. Arthur was looking him, his hair covering most of the face, though his blue eyes was looking at him. Staring daggers at him, for a brief moment the barbarian felt a rush of something.

It wasn't anger, or your typical fear. It was something more, something..primal.... like everyone part of his body was telling him, that he was in grave danger. The eyes of Arthur looked serious, focus..cold, but before Haseid could gather his thought and grip his weapon.

"STOP!" Yelled shadowheart casting command, causing haseid to stop. As just then Arthur scimitars flashed out with a single cut, or cuts. Haseid arms went flying, the barbarian eyes widen looking to see where used to be his arms was now blood his arms falling onto the ground. His hands still gripping the great club. The area seemed to quiet, the only thing he could hear was his own heartbeat. Arthur stands up, now standing up right. Haseid eyes begin to trail up looking up at Arthur face, but it wasn't Arthur face could he see. It was like all the light left Arthur face, leaving only shadows. The only showing was Arthur bright blue eyes, piercing the darkness. The eyes were cold, emotionless. He didn't notice Arthur scimitars going around neck, like scissors before the last thing the barbarian saw. Was those eyes like a monster staring at him. The head of Haseid goes flying, before the body hit the floor, seeping the floor with a dark crimson of blood. Arthur looking down, before blinking. He takes a deep breath, frowning making a face like he was about to be sick.

He then got his head back in the game, continuing to fight soon the battle was over. Shadowheart going around healing people, even lae'zel. Though making sure Arthur was healed. Arthur was looting the coprses, before finding something. "Hey astarion catch" Said Arthur. Tossing astarion a rapier.

"Oh, oooh very nice." He said grinning.

"Should be better then a dagger," He said as Gale found some spell scrolls, so he was taking the time to add them to his spellbook.

"Hey arthur, I would like to continue that conversation." Said shadowheart.

"Hmm, oh of course shadowheart, what is it" Asked arthur now fully healed.

"It's just, look you saved my life 3 times, 2 twice you put yourself in front of danger for me. Now with astarion, you did the same thing. You keep putting yourself in front of us, to protect us. I do want to thank you, you have now saved me 3 times. But, I am curious is why? Why do you keep doing that." Asked Shadowheart

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, you don't have to do that. But you keep trying to keep us safe, no worrying about what happens to your body. It's kind a reckless." She said raising an eye brow.

"Heh.. haha.." He laughed a bit, a genuine laugh. It was soft and warm. "I guess you are right it's a bit reckless of me. You and astarion are more then cable of taking hits." He said with a small smile.

"Well I am not saying, i want to be hit." Said shadowheart

"I know what you mean, hm..there is a lot of answers to that question. But I suppose the more easier, one is.. because I don't want you guys to get hurt, so if I can prevent it I will. It's like my body reacts by instinct. If I can prevent you guys getting badly hurt I will, though i know I can't stop it all the time. Though if someone is in danger, I guess..I always want to try to help them, even though it could get me hurt."

As shadowheart blinks, smiling "You know very rarely do people meet people like you, you know one of those hero types people." She said smirking.

"I am no hero shadowheart, I am just trying to do the right thing. But I am not naive, I know sometimes doing the right thing, you need to make the hardest choices. People will get hurt, but if I can prevent it, then a part of me screams at me I should." He said looking at her. "But shadowheart, I am no hero.." 

Arthur said looking at her, his face stoic. looking at her.

"Well, if it menas anything, and if it doesn't inflate your ego..you're my hero at least a little bit." She said smiling, Before the same purple glow, happen again. This time arthur notice it, as he saw her wincing in pain. He notices the magic, it was shar. Which makes him narrow his eyes a bit.

"Shadowheart are you okay"

"Y-Yes..I am fine. Sorry, I..wouldn't worry to much about it." Said shadowheart

As Arthur wanted to say something, but was quiet. "I see, just..if there is anything I can do to help let me know" Said Arthur.

"Thanks, but trust me it's fine." Said shadowheart,

"You know Arthur I want to thank you, i mean you did save this beautiful face of mine" Said astarion walking up putting arm around arthur, with a grin. "Your face looks perfectly fine as well" Said astarion.

As arthur, looks at him smiles a little "Thanks, glad I could help" He said jokingly.

As the party found the way to get deeper into the crypt, finding a soul coin among other things. They also found a spear, that Arthur gave shadowheart to use, before they reach the center. There was a large statue of Jergal, Arthur knew all about Jergal. How would he not, Jergal was the reason his bastard of a father became the god of murder. He found the book of gods, that was under lock and key, after dealing with the skeletons, he got to the coffin opening it.

That when he was introduce to a mummy like skeleton undead creature. Wearing robes and tatters things.

"So he has spoken, and so thou standest before me. Right as always. What a curious way to awaken. Now I have question for thee: what is the worth of a single mortal life?" He asked Arthur.

Arthur immedently reconize the energy as divine, it didn't take him to long to realize this was Jergal, thy jergal. Though Arthur glances at his party, he then looked at the mummy. "First off what do I call you?" He asked

"Thou may call me Withers, now will thou answer thine question." Withers replied. Looking at arthur.

"Each life is of infinite value and merits sacrificing everything for." Replied arthur,

"And thus balance is achieved, If all are at War, none can win. We have met, I know thy face. We will see each other again at a proper time and place. Farewell" He said, as the party leaves but arthur doesn't. "Wait withers..you know who I am don't you.. like I know who you are..who you really are" He said looking at withers.

"I do, if thou worries, thy will tell their companions, your secrets. I will not, since it's not my place." Said withers, as the two looked at each other, before Arthur nods walking away. "Though I do wonder how the wheel of fate will turn in thine favor" He said to himself.

The group got out of the crypt, the party begin to walk before they begin to hear shouting. to see a group of adventures Aradin slamming his fist on the door screaming at the tieflings to let them inside, as Zevlor came up, "You led goblins hear! Where is the druid?!"

"There is no time, open the door Zevlor now!" yelled Aradin.

Before arrows were shot, as one of the tieflings was hit by the arrows falling to the ground dead, as the party watched as one of the goblins was hit by an eldrich blast, before a young man came jumping down. "Damnable roach. prove the blade." Before the young man piercing the goblin with his rapier, before tossing it to the side. "Suffer it's sting." He said with a smirk.

"My what a courageous young man" Said gale happily

"I don't know, sure he's charming, but jumping down into danger while he could pick them from afar is kind a.. reckless" Said shadowheart.

"For once I agree" Said Lae'zel,

"Ether way, let's help him, and the others" Said Arthur. He knew a druid grove when he saw one, he remembered his promise to silvanus. He needed to get in there to see what was going on, also he wanted to help the young man that just charge straight forward into danger. Thinking already minsc would like him.

As the party begins to get to work, killing the goblins. Wyll, taking the goblins left and right with his blade. Disarming them with his rapier before slitting their throats. He glances at arthur, noticing the skill of the archer. each target hitting it's mark. Soon the goblins were dealt with. As wyll was first to go in, as arthur, looked at all the dead goblins. Seeing on the gloves, one was wearing noticing the brand of the absolute, he looks down. "Let's go inside" Said arthur. The others nod, to see Aradin and Zevlor arguing. "There are children here you fool!" Yelled Zevlor, "And you lost the druid!"

"We were running for our lives." Said Aradin angrly.

"Though, I do agree with..i believe zevlor i heard his name was. You could of tried to lose them, without putting others in danger." Said Arthur.

"Who asked you," Said Aradin

"Show some respect, this man just saved your life." Said Zevlor.

"I didn't ask to be saved" Said Aradin,

"Please, you were legit begging for our help" Said Zevlor,

"ENOUGH! Both of you, arguing will not bring back the dead, what done is done. Fighting, isn't going to solve anything." Said Arthur.

"Your right." Said zevlor.

"Trying to save your precious hides" Said Aradin but before he could contiue, he glanced at arthur. Arthur gave him a look, "Fine" Said Aradin, before walking off with his crew.

"My apologizes, Aradin is a blowhard, but I shouldn't match him. Thank you for your help, the name Zevlor." Said Zevlor

"Arthur Thornwind" Said, Arthur

"A pleasure, ugh this is a mess." He said

"What's going on" Said Arthur, looking at Zelvor.

"The druids, will definilty be pushing us to leave more, but if we leave. The goblins will kill us. So we can't stay, and we can't leave, but..you know, the druids don't know you. Maybe you can talk to them" Said Zevlor,

"Hmm, yes I think I will, thank you Zevlor." He said nodding.

"Are you serious!?" Said Lae'zel before grumbling something under her breath.

As zevlor, gave arthur and the others the information they needed, about what was going on, and the ritual. As they walk, he heard 3 tieflings arguing, about staying.

"The roads are dangerous, it's safer to stay here with them. And if something does happen, then you can all work together. Plus they need your help." Said Arthur

"Thank you! Come on Rolan" Said the female tiefling.

"ugh fine," Said rolan, before they walked away. The party, then found wyll, the young warlock, who was found fighting the goblin at the gates. He was giving lessons to the kids.

"Umi, you don't need to be like me" Said wyll with a soft voice. "You jsut need to buy yourself enough time to run, come I believe in you." He said smiling.

"It's good advice kid, I suggest you listen" Said arthur smiling looking at the tiefling kid with a smile.

As wyll smiles at that, which chears umi up. As wyll begins to talk to Arthur.

"I saw you at the gate, you are great fighter" Said wyll smiling.

"Thanks, so are you. May I ask what are you doing he-"

Before he could finish the same psionic energy washes though them, as Arthur saw visions of wyll running, chasing something. Before it stopped.

"ah..i see you were infected as well." Said wyll looking at arthur.

"Yes, though what was that. What were you chasing?" Asked arthur

"Advocatus Diaboli, a devil that entered our realm, I have been sent to kill it." He said looking at Arthur

As arthur thought, there was something more to this story. From the visions, it didn't look like any fiend he seen. "How about we work together, I can help you tract this fiend, I am good at tracking things." Said arthur looked at him.

"Hmm, you know I think I will like that. You can call me wyll, the blade of the frontiers."

"You can call me arthur, Arthur Thornwind" He said, shaking wyll hand.

As wyll joins the party, as the group did some shopping, before they found a tiefling guy who was looking at lae'zel scared. "Oh god..not another one.." He said,

Arthur, decides to talk to him, with lae'zel, since he would have information for Lae'zel, though lae'zel looked at him.

"On Crèche K'liir, a formal greetings begins with a bow" Said lae'zel

Arthu knew that was false, due to the fact lae'zel didn't do that when they met.

"Hang on lae'zel let me ask him."

"You dare interrupt?! Has those tadpoles ravanged your senses!?" She yelled at him, with venom in her mouth.

"Enough lae'zel! - Stand down.. I will not tell you again." He said looking at her, like a general would to their soldier. His voice is rough and sharp, he stares down lae'zel, as she growls

"K'chakki! Fine.." She said backing up

"Sorry about that, are you okay" He said looking at the tiefling.

"Y-Yeah I guess what do you want" He asked

"Just directions, where you say the githankai patrol" He said holding out a map.

"Here, and thank you." He said running away.

As Lae'zel looked at Arthur "The last time one my subordinates t-" Before she could even finish.

"Lae'zel, I will say this once and only once, I am not your subordinate we are partners, equals" He said

"Throwing a tantrum no-" Before again she could finish

"I SAID ENOUGH!" He yelled, causing the party, to stop moving. Like they were holding their breath. "We will go to camp and rest, lae'zel me and you, will talk there. Privately." He said looking at her.

He then went off on his own, heading to camp

"Someone is in trouble" Said astarion with a grin on his face, as Shadowheart giggles.

As the camp was quiet, as withers was in the corner, as Lae'zel was sharping her sword not wearing her armor, before arthur comes over. He gestures her to follow him. She grumbles but does so, soon they reach a secluded area. Though lae'zel notices something. There was thick sticks, almost like clubs on a large stone like table. Arthur walked over, grabbing two of them.

"Lae'zel, I understand you are scared. Honestly out of everyone here, your probably scared shitless. But this arguing, and fighting has to stop. I need you to know I have every intention to head to the creshe. Though, I can not just walk away from people who need help. Call me soft, but we both know you will have trouble getting there without me. So, I know one thing you will respect," He said looking at her.

"I will make a deal with you, trail by combat. Who ever manage to knock the other onto the ground, with out their weapons. If you win, we will head straight to the creshe, if I win. You will help me, and the druids." He said, he didn't want to fight lae'zel, but he had a feeling if she went off on her own she could get hurt or worse. Something was protecting them from the tadpole influence. But he knew words wouldn't reach her, well not as well. But action will.

"Are you serious you dare challenge me, Lae'zel, to a dual" She said narrowing her eyes.

"Yes I do, but you needed to promise to respect the winner, I vow as my skills as a ranger, and I vow on someone who I respect more then anything in this world." He said, seriously.

"You vow on someone but don't say their name" Said Lae'zel

"You wouldn't know who I am talking about. But fine..." He was quiet before opening his eyes looking at her. "I vow on Jaheira   that I will keep my promise if you win." He said looking at her, he was right, lae'zel, didn't know who the fuck that was. At least at the moment, but she looked at Arthur eyes, "Who is that? Your mentor? Your general?" She asked curiously. As Arthur once again had a real smile on his face "Yes and no, she is someone.. I respect.. you could say she's my Vlaakith in a way, if that makes since" Said Arthur. "I see.. then I swear on queen Vlaakith, that I will agree to these terms" said grabbing a long club, like a greatsword. Before, taking a pose, Lae'zel looks at arthur. She knew his skills as a warrior. Though she was just some fighter from this world, but the way he was talking it was like a general, a leader...

Lae'zel very much approves.

Chapter Text

  The wind howls causing the tree's to rustle. The critters of woods were scurrying about. Some stopping hearing something, in the far distance. The sound of wooden clubs hitting, and the grunts of gith warrior swinging the long wooden club like a sword as it was blocked by two smaller clubs. Arthur and Lae'zel in the middle of combat, burses and marks appearing on their body from each other hitting the other. Lae'zel, striking hard, then raising her foot kicking Arthur in the stomach but while he did grunt in pain he didn't move at least in till she taking her club using them to move Arthur clubs away from his face before taking her elbow and slamming into the archer face. Causing him to back up before he then took his the end of club hitting her in the gut with his left club. She growls, backing up. wiping some blood of her lip. 

They looked like they been fighting for a few hours each having had good hits on each other. 

"Tshk! Not bad ishitk. But I can tell you are holding back, even in combat with other people. The others may not be able to tell, but a warrior can see when someone holds back stupidly. Why do you hold back even now. If we are going to spar, you need to fight me like you mean to kill me" She said, standing straight now. 

"No, I won't do that lae'zel.. but you are right I am holding back, but I refuse to fight you like that. Because I don't want to kill you, you are a powerful fighter. But i refuse to try to fight you like that." Said Arthur, looking at her gripping his clubs. 

"Tsk! You sound like a child, plus killing is good," She said raising her club like a sword before rushing at him. "it culls the weak!" She said, running at him. though she felt something, it was like every hair on her body was sticking up. Only a few times she felt something like this, before glancing up at the half-elf eyes. Arthur eyes now piercing hers, his eyes filled with something..  it was little to late when she realize what it was. It was rage, a deep anger. The next thing she knew, he dodged her attack, grabbing it under his arm then, spinning, before releasing her. Then with both clubs, hit her square in the jar, sending her flying slamming her into a tree. she nearly fell before she quickly regain her balance. 

"Lae'zel, I understand, you were raised to think like that. Though, I am going to say this once. Don't ever, ever say that again to me. Because how wrong it is, killing doesn't cull the weak. Just because someone gets killed doesn't make them weak." he said looking at his hands. "Sometimes the person that died, are some of the strongest people you knew. Are the ones to be killed" He said looking at his hands, flashes of him holding his sword dripping in blood. Looking up to see bodies of his fellow harpers some missing their heads, others having their eyes gauge out, most having the eyes of pure fear in their eyes. "I am not saying killing is never the answer. Sometimes it is the answer, but you should never use it as a way to say it culls the weak. Because, some of the people who are killed. They weren't weak, they weren't meant to fight. Some are just innocent bystanders, some are warriors giving everything they have to stop something. Fighting for everything they believe in.. so to say to kill is to cull the weak..it respects every warrior who died..or sacrificed themselves. Fighting for something they believe in. Sometimes, you don't even get to meet the person that was killed, even though they also hold a place in your heart." He said closing his eyes, remembering the cries of Jaheira, when she and him found Khalid dead. he takes a deep breath. 

"I won't lie, sometimes killing is necessary, but I will never, ever let someone call those were killed weak." He said, gripping the club around his hand. "because sometimes those people didn't even ask for it, or disserve it." He said, looking down. seeing the mountains and piles of bodies, and corpse his ankles deep in blood. So many bodies, so many faces, and he remembers each one. He then takes another deep breath, like if to settle himself back to the world of the living rubbing his head, breathing the fresh air. Looking up at the stars, he could feel his heart beating so fast, like if it was going a mile a minute. Taking another deep breath. 

"Lae'zel, you want me to fight more seriously, fine I will. But I won't be fighting as If I mean to kill you, because I.." he then stops himself. "I don't want to fight you like that, but I will be teaching you another thing.." He said taking a stance "That is to respect to those who have fallen" He said, before lae'zel could speak. Arthur ran at her, at higher speeds. Faster then he was going not a few moments ago, Before she could go block, she felt the club hitting the base of her neck, then a club. to the left of her face, sending her spiraling a bit. She manage to catch herself only to see 2 club flying into the air, only to then fell Arthur fist hitting her in the gut. Then the next punch hit her jaw, and the next one right between her eyes. Stumbling, he grabs his clubs from the air spinning them around in his hand. Then almost like if they were blades hitting her downwards across the chest, then onto her shoulder. Then he goes for a spin kick, she raised her club to block. 

CRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAACCCCCCCCCK SNAP! 

Was what she heard, as her club snaps right in half, Arthur heel hitting her right in the cheek, his foot landing on the other side of the ground dust shooting up, though before she could grasp what just happen..in a spam of maybe a minute or 2. She felt her legs being hits, her feet now in the air, as Arthur swiped his clubs against her legs. Before raising his clubs, slamming into her stomach slamming into her into the floor. Dust raises up, as she was panting. Then she saw Arthur hand out. 

"You fought well, but I had more experience." He said looking at her. 

She looks at his fist, grumbling. but took his hand as he helped her up. 

Having made another fire, Arthur having taken off his shirt to clean it, and also patch up some wounds they got. Drinking some health potion before handing a bottle to lae'zel. Who took it drinking. Her eyes glancing at Arthur body, he was pretty built. His body looked trained, and very much in shape having a 6 pack. Though she also notice scars, marks, and other things gotten from older battles. The second camp  was quiet. 

"The way you talked, Arthur" Said Lae'zel. "You have fought in a war, or a huge battle." She said looking at him, as Arthur stopped sewing up his white shirt. That is similar to astarion shirt. A ruffle collar poet shirt, or what some would call a pirate shirt. 

"Yes, you can say that. I have been in a lot of battles, seen many things.." He said somberly. 

"How many?" Asked lae'zel 

"How many what?" Replied Arthur 

Lae'zel sighs "How many soldiers have you lost in battles" She replied 

Arthur was quiet, she could tell by his face he knew the exact number of how many people he seen died. "To many to count.." He said somberly. 

"I see.." She said Lae'zel looks at the fire, then at Arthur. For once the gith, seems lost in the thought. She sighs, shaking her head. 


"Anyways, Arthur." Said calling arthur by his first name. "You gain my respect, not many can gain such claim. Unlike the others, you choose to face me directly which takes courage or stupidity. But you aren't dumb. So, I will keep, my word. I will follow your lead, for now." She said. 

"Good, then tomorrow we continue on helping the druids and tieflings." He said, putting his shirt back on, drinking the health potion one more time. 

Lae'zel looked at him, then blinked "I think I would like to taste you." 

As normally you wouldn't think a health potion could burn, but Arthur can now be the first one..that at times yes it can burn. He did a spit take, coughing. 

"Excuse me?" He said mid cough. 

"You heard me, I think I would like to taste you." She said bluntly. "Your sweat, is driving me mad and that fight was exhilarating. So now I want to taste you." She said looking at arthur. 

"Uh, Lae'zel.. I apparated you respecting me, but I have to decline. I am just not that interested." Said Arthur, still recovering from spitting up the health potion. 

"Are you sure, this offer will only be on the table once." She said looking at Arthur. 

"I am, very sure. Thank you, but no thanks" He said looking at her 

"Tch, Your lost," She said getting up 

"Let's get going," Said lae'zel heading back to the actual camp. 

Arthur just blinked, shaking his head. Before getting up, heading to camp as well. Soon laying in his bedroll glancing at astarion who was about to go out hunting again, looking at Arthur. Smiling softly, waving. 


Arthur sighs starting to close his eyes.. to which he would be plague of nightmares, and guilt. Being woken up a few times by them, but at least trying to get some sleep.. knowing tomorrow will bring more, not knowing what is about to happen to him.