Starting with Astarion PoV

Astarion stopped dead in his tracks. Heavy footfalls sounded at his peripheral hearing from somewhere within the forest.

Something is heading our way. Fast.

Nyx noticed the change in his demeanour immediately, and instinctively drew her bow, the rest following suit after his daggers rang from their sheaths. He touched his temple and then signalled to Nyx in rapid succession. They faced the direction of the threat. Leather strained with each waiting moment as grips tightened around weapons.

The pace of the running was irregular; branches snapped and leaves rustled underfoot. Drawn blades snatched at the light, and magic primed the air with static energy. The trees provided cover for both parties while the footfalls kept their approaching rhythm. His companion's own breaths and heartbeats quickened.

A shadow burst from the brush, and a wide-eyed youth cried out in shock. He stumbled over his own feet, nearly running into Tav. She dodged to the side; the boy tripped and fell to the road with an ungraceful grunt. He remained on his back, heaving to catch his breath.

Tav stood over him and offered a hand. "Easy there, what's the rush?"

"Get away from me, bandit!" The boy lurched to his feet, visibly quaking in his boots, sending up dirt to dance in the beams of sunlight.

Astarion tsked when the boy held up a broken arrow in defence, pointing the sharp end at Tav.

Given the state he's in, he is hardly worth the effort. Karlach could blow him over with a sneeze.

Tension had dissipated from their group, but Tav held up her hands. "We're not bandits, and we're not going to hurt you. How about we look at that for you?" She gestured to his general bloodied state. The boy had various cuts and scrapes, torn clothing, a missing shoe and leaves tangled in his hair.

He remained wide-eyed, now gripping the arrow's shaft in both hands; not that it did anything for his shaking. "D-don't come any closer! I-I'll... scream and-and the m-monster will get you!"

Tav lowered her arms, subtly touching the side of her temple.

"Te curo." Shadowheart's magic swelled around the boy, and he stopped trembling to stare down at himself while his wounds mended.

Tav appraised the boy and spoke gently onto his gaping expression. "Better, yes? What's your name? I'm Tav and these," she made a swooping motion of her hands, "Are my friends."

He answered in a jittery voice, "B-Byron. You're not bandits?"

Their chuckles and snickers made him jump. He surveyed them with a mixture of skepticism and embarrassment.

Tav shook her head and beamed at him. "I'd say we're quite the opposite."

Gale quipped, "Bandit's Bane more like."

Byron stifled a shiver, clutching the broken arrow to his chest, and Tav asked, "What monster do you speak of? We tend to be equally baneful for them too."

Astarion sighed dramatically, Ugh, not again. Tav ignored him, and he glared at her. Rude.

Byron whipped his head up when a bird fluttered overhead, and he seemed ready to bolt again. Astarion wondered whether the boy had even seen his second decade yet. Before the boy could dash off, Tav and Gale calmed him down to coax more information from him.

The boy gestured wildly while he spoke of the encounter. Wyll confiscated the arrow, lest someone lose an eye. Nyx encouraged deep breathing from him, but he sputtered between breaths, "W-we were looking for Molly. She didn't c-come home last night..."

Alarmed, Wyll asked, "Who's Molly?"

"One of Da's sheep." Byron stared down at his feet, choking on a sob. "She was his favourite."

Astarion jutted out his hip and groused, "We're not getting involved over sheep. Honestly, have you already forgotten about our impending condition?", tapping the side of his head.

Tav gave him a disapproving side-eye and said, "We are 'getting involved' because people's lives are at stake." She cut him off and urged Byron to continue his snivelling.

"We told Ma we'd find her and bring her back. But -", another sob drowned out the words.

"Who is we? You and your Da?"

His lip quivered, and he wrung his hands. "My big brother. He told me to run. H-he was behind me until-" Tav patted the boy's shoulder while he wailed for his brother.

Astarion leaned toward Nyx, keeping his voice low. "Oh, well. Since he's already eaten, then there'll be no one to rescue. So, we can simply be on our merry little way."

She levelled her signature flat look at him and said, "We don't know that for sure, and I'll hold out hope for the brother. I'm more concerned that this is the same creature that has been stalking us. If so, I'd be wise not to simply go on our merry little way."

He huffed. "You are not helping."

A smirk quirked at the side of her mouth. "It is in our own interest to be rid of the monster too."

Astarion made a disgusted noise. "Fine."

"Besides, it'll be 'fun'."

"Hmmph, I've had my fair share of monsters lurking in the shadows, thank you. I'd prefer to be the one doing so from now on."

"Then why don't we take the hunt to it?"

He eyed her expectant smile, but his treacherous face belied his disappointment by mirroring a grin. Tapping his finger on his chin, he made a show of thinking it over. "You make a compelling case, my sweet. It is tempting, I'll give you that." He sighed in mock defeat. "Alright, you've convinced me."

"Good. That's good."

--- --- ---

Nyx knew well that asking for sympathy from Astarion would likely be remiss, but at least he wasn't sneering at the poor boy anymore. Byron wiped his eyes, and the sobs slowly eased into sniffs.

Tav prompted gently, "Where is your farmstead?"

He pointed up the road. "A few hours toward the city, near the river."

Tav set her jaw in determination and met each of her companions’ gazes. "First, we get him back home. Then we organise ourselves into two groups - one to guard the family, and the other to search for the missing brother."

"Chk! More time wasted 'interfering' when your efforts should go to saving 'your own city'."

Byron interjected in a small voice, "But Ma said the army was defeated."

Stunned glances were shared between the onlookers, and Karlach asked confused, "What do you mean? Defeated by whom? Has the Gate recruited its own army while I was away?"

The boy shook his head. "It was Lord Gortash," and he shrunk in on himself when flames sparked from Karlach and her expression darkened.

Tav urged Byron to continue once more. He elaborated on some 'marvellous machines' that Lord Gortash had made to fight the cult army. Not long after, Byron's parents again received word from city relatives that the same cult army lay in ruin at the foot of Rivington's gate.

Relief swept through the party, and Tav perked up. She grabbed Byron in a half-embrace around the shoulders and chippered. "You've given us the best news! Baldur's Gate will be safe for one more night while we ensure the same for you and your family."

Nyx didn't think it possible, but Byron's eyes grew wider than before, and he gaped at Tav in disbelief. "Really, miss?"

Gale laughed and gripped the boy's other shoulder. "They don't call her 'Miss Hero' for nothing."

---

They reached the farm by mid-morning. A winding side road opened onto a flat patch of land. The farm sat comfortably next to an offshoot of the Chionthar river. The large grey farmhouse was surrounded by several barns, a windmill in a green clearing and a watermill at the gurgling stream. Pretty as a picture; they grey against the colours of autumn.

Shadowheart surveyed the area, her ponytail swaying. "How quant."

Byron bolted down the incline, running barefoot. He didn't look back until he was standing within the confines of the stead. By the time their group arrived, Byron was sobbing into his mother's arms while his father appraised their group's arrival. Nyx noticed several farmhands peering at the scene from other parts of the farm.

Byron's father seemed strong, healthy and capable regardless of the age on his face and the colour of his beard. He leaned on his hatchet, his eyes glancing between their party's weapons. "We maybe farmers, but we got ways to protect ourselves."

Wyll raised his voice. "We mean you no harm, good sir." The older man gave Wyll's horns a scrutinising look.

Tav said, smiling, "We found Byron in the road and wanted to see him home safely." She proceeded with introductions and pleasantries.

"We don't need ya kind here."

"But da-"

"George.", Byron's mother chided. "These people saw our son home. The least we can do is thank them."

George grumbled something about 'knowing full well about people like Tav's group'. "Adventures, more trouble than their worth."

Byron's mother ignored him and stepped forward to shake Tav's hand. Concern lined her expression. "Aileen." She searched each of their faces, and her shoulders slumped. "It's true then? Jon is not among you?"

"Sorry, no." Tav shook her head solemnly. "We were hoping to offer our help to find him, and take care of the monster that's been terrorising you."

"We do nat need ya help." George waved them off. "We look after ours."

Tav drew herself up, her jaw set to talk sense into him, but Aileen glared at George instead and declared, "We are farmers, not fighters. If it were a cayote or bear, or Jon was only hurt or missing - I'd agree but," Aileen swallowed down the emotion in her voice when her eyes met Byron's. "This is our son, and we're clearly out of our depth."

George groaned and scratched his beard. Aileen nodded to herself, the matter settled.

Tav prompted them for information. "We need to know as much as we can about the monster."

Aileen beckoned them to follow her while George led Byron back to the house.

Tav, along with inputs from several of the others, was elaborating on their plan while the group strolled past one of the barns, more curious onlookers following their progress.

Aileen stopped Gale mid sentence and asked, "First, I'd want to know why you are so willing to help?"

"It is what we do." Tav said as if it were obvious.

Aileen frowned. "Not for reward?"

Tav's features softened regardless of the scrutiny, and her tone became wistful. "I am coast folk. Although my family depended on the sea, our communities always looked out for one another. I'd like to think if my family were terrorised by monsters that capable people would lend a hand too."

Nyx thought back on Tufani, and her sentiments matched Tav's. From the others, there was the usual mixture of approving nods and begrudging rumblings.

"It is good to remember one's roots." Aileen smiled warmly. "Pardon my mistrust, but things have grown more dangerous lately; monsters and armies aside." She tugged at her apron and folded her hands over it. "We would be in your debt. We don't have much to give in return. You can stay in the empty barn for as long as you need." She inclined her head towards the building on their right. "It is sturdy and dry. But I'm getting ahead of myself. I'd like to show you something, then you decide." Aileen elaborated on the recent attacks. To her family's relief and surprise, the army marched right on by the farm. Unfortunately, the monster that came after took a liking to their livestock. Those not killed fled into the woods.

"It is not the first time beasts have gotten to the animals. Jon and Byron usually set out to bring the remaining sheep home." Her gaze fell to the dirt path at her feet, and their group walked in silence for a while.

Nyx trailed behind the rest; admiring how the wind swept over the long grass in undulating waves as they approached the clearing. Astarion sauntered next to her and said, "I hope we're going to be properly compensated for our troubles."

She set her mouth in a line. "With what? These are not rich people, Astarion. They make do with what they have; already offered us an overnight stay in the barn." She hooked a thumb in its general direction.

"Bah, of what use is it to me? Unless..." He glanced at the barn and tilted his head.

She narrowed her eyes in amused suspicion.

A sly grin split his face, and he roved his gaze down her body. "I suppose we could make the most out of it. A roll in the hay, perhaps?"

Nyx gasped at his audacity, so much so she almost swallowed her tongue.

They invited us into their home.

She suppressed a choke, managed to school her expression and informed him in an even tone, "You are shameless. And no, hay is like sand - it get's everywhere, not to mention the sharp bits poking where you'd least want it."

"Oh?" His eyes and fangs flashed. "Speaking from experience, my sweet? Did I chance upon a tantalising story? Do tell. It'll be a marked improvement on this dull situation."

She straightened and said firmly, despite the heat in her cheeks, "A lady never tells.", picking up her pace to keep up with the rest.

"Hah! My, my." He considered her for a moment. With his wicked grin in place, he purred, "I'd never thought you'd be so, adventurous."

I didn't admit to anything! "We are here to do a job. Now shh, the others are talking again, and I want to hear what they're saying."

Astarion chuckled wryly, and his reply dripped with promise. "Pretend all you like, lover. I'm going to find out sooner or later. And perhaps I can convince you to be even more adventurous."

Her face burned, and she dearly wanted to strangle him.

---

One half of the stable had been torn down. Stores of food, hay and equipment poured from the upper story and lay strewn on the ground. Planks jutted outward at various angles, broken and splintered.

Hmm, a monster indeed.

Aileen was joined by George, who told the farmhands to take a break from cleaning and repairs. Together with Tav's group, they inspected the gutted remains of the building.

"Good graces." Nyx stared at the smears of congealed blood stuck to the rafters. "That is not the work of an owlbear."

Messy eaters, yes, but not carnage.

George and Aileen stood in each other's arms and recollected that the monster had slaughtered twelve of their sheep, the remaining smears of blood against every part of the stables indicating such.

Shadowheart had a severe scowl. "And you let your sons leave?"

Aileen turned her face away, and George matched Shadowheart's scowl. "Our sons aren't idiots. We told them not to go far. Jon and Byron know these woods better than anyone else. Been playing in them since knee high. Brought home animals lost in them many times."

"Hell's great fire." Wyll stooped to pick up something at the back of the stables, bringing it for everyone to see.

"Is that a, claw?" Gale studied the black object.

Nyx, Halsin and Wyll nodded in unison.

"It's the size of my hand!" Karlach measured it against her palm. The monster's curved nail spanned the length of her hand, from the base of her palm to the tip of her fingers.

Aileen and George were watching them with growing apprehension while they discussed the situation heatedly among themselves in the middle of the barn, until Tav spun around and declared, "We are not leaving you to deal with this thing alone."

"Here, here."

Relief and gratitude greeted their announcement, both Aileen and George bursting with appreciation.

Tav turned to her companions. "We'll set out as soon as possible."

---

They were to scout for Jon and potentially identify what creature they were up against. Nyx and Astarion led the scouting party away from the farm through the woods. Eventually, the trail of blood dried up, and the disturbance to the surrounding vegetation became less noticeable. However, between Nyx's experience and Astarion's superior sense of smell; they kept to the monster's trail through the trees and happened upon a small, shallow cave. The trees were thinned out around the cave.

Halsin took a closer look at the skeletal remains within, while Shadowheart stood guard at its entrance. After searching the immediate area, Astarion and Nyx found nothing of note and then widened their search beyond the cave.

Nyx rubbed at her blemish. She spotted clothing dangling from a nearby branch. Upon closer inspection, it wasn't clothing, but skin.

Velvet, to be precise.

Old and dry, coming apart when Nyx grasped at it. For a moment she thought it belonged to the resident deer, but the feint waft of decay reminded Nyx of her previous encounter while hunting with Scratch and Bean. The splayed-toe tracks had already confirmed that they hunted the same monster whose footprints had stalked the Absolute's army, and yet she was no closer to determining what it was. She let out an exasperated breath, both at the situation and the irritating itch at the side of her neck.

Where are you, Jon?

As though to summon him, Astarion called out to Halsin and Shadowheart. Her heart raced as she rushed back to the cave. Dread seized her stomach for a moment at the empty scene, but Astarion appeared again. "Over here," and he led her to Halsin and Shadowheart attending to an unconscious man.

She surveyed the area; Jon got away from the cave and partly buried himself under brush and leaves. "Clever." Nyx remarked and asked the other two, "How is he?"

Strain furrowed Shadowheart's brow, her hands placed on his back were glowing with magic. Halsin answered without looking up. "Badly injured and dehydrated. We'll heal him enough to take him back. There we can focus on full recovery."

She inclined her head and took up a sentry position next to Astarion. The forest was brimming with life: the low buzz of insects, calls of early-waking night birds in the distance and the rustle of leaves in the afternoon breeze overhead. Nothing to indicate a monster lurking in the shadows. The surrounding ambience felt at ease.

Thank the graces.

Astarion crossed his arms. "You do realise that we have practically volunteered to be the monster's dinner."

"That is the idea, yes. No point in rescuing Jon when the monster simply finishes them off tonight or tomorrow."

"Ugh, my point exactly. I don't want to wait around until the monster decides it is good and ready to 'finish us off'. I say we bring the others here and kill it in its bed while it sleeps."

Nyx snorted. "Sound strategy."

"And yet, I hear a 'but' in that statement."

"But I have a sneaky suspicion that it'll sense our ploy a mile away."

He made another disgusted noise and preened his tunic. "Then what do you suggest?"

"One of us acts as bait."

Halsin and Shadowheart paused their work, and Astarion shot her an incredulous glare. "Well, I'm not going to volunteer again, and certainly not for that."

"I figured as much. Don't worry, I'll do it."

"Are you insane?"

"Debatable. This is not the first time I flush out a monster in hiding."

Astarion waved a dismissive hand. "Your funeral, I guess."

Shadowheart quipped dryly from her seated position, "Your concern is noted."

Nyx snorted. "Come now, I'm not going to throw myself at it. Only lure it out into a trap of our making. Hm?"

Astarion groaned as though the thought of it pained him, making the others snicker in response.

--- --- ---

Astarion ensured that everyone present knew of his disapproval.

Preposterous! Luring out monsters. Why did I agree to this?

Nyx was making an awful fuss around the creature's leftovers, rubbing her scent off on the rocks at the entrance. As if that wasn't annoying already, she proceeded to leave dabs of her blood - planning on making a trail of it all the way back to the farm.

Gods above.

At first, the scent of her blood was bearable; it's not like he wasn't used to it. However, they weren't in a battle, the results of which tended to mute any one person's scent - and he had not hunted yet. Walking ahead of Nyx did not help, and their progress was slow seeing as Halsin was carrying the missing brother.

Astarion caught himself listening for when she'd move to run her hand along the bark of a tree or grasp at a passing leaf. Soon his senses were drenched. The combination of earth, rain and smoke teased at his tongue. The sounds of the forest receded until her steady heartbeat and slow breath were all he could hear. He tried to concentrate on his feet and the route before him, but his mind was transported elsewhere.

Back to the first time he tasted the blood of a thinking creature. The warmth flowing over his tongue, the comfort of its strength and the thrill of its intoxication. His hunger grew, a relenting burden he would forever endure, and one he'd have to address once they'd delivered the boy. Another rustle of leaves reinforced her presence. He yearned to taste her again.

Slowly. Captivatingly. Generously. Like he had after finding her in the forest, blood trailing down her moonlit skin.

Halsin's booming voice ripped him from his reverie.

Astarion found himself at the limit of the forest, and the farmstead cast in hues of flame before them. Nyx sidled next to him. She barely made eye contact with him and asked urgently, "Astarion, are you alright?"

His mouth moved of its own accord. "No. Yes, I-"

Understanding dawned on her, and she motioned to heal her cut finger. He snatched her wrist and brought her fingers to his lips, inhaling deeply. He wondered whether he had been 'flushed out' too. To her credit, she kept still. Her breathing was steady, although her pulse beat a little faster. Their eyes locked, but she didn't pull away, and there was no fear in her searching gaze either.

I just need to take the edge off.

Astarion's voice was barely a whisper against her skin. "May I?"

She gave a small nod. He turned her hand upwards toward him. The blood pooled at the wound, then it coursed down her hand. He caught the drop at her wrist before it could be wasted on the ground and lapped the trail back to the cut. Earth, rain and smoke intensified tenfold, and amplified the thrill running down his spine. Strangely, his hunger did not demand more, but it did not yield either. And he would not dare tempt it any further. He licked her finger one last time and released her hand.

She brushed her fingers together, healing herself. The sincerity in her voice took him aback. "I'm sorry, Astarion, I should have been more considerate of the effect it would have on you."

He answered in a haze. "Thank you." Though it didn't quite capture what he meant. "Not unpleasant. Just unexpected."

Her analysing gaze softened into a smile, and she glanced at the farm below. "Join us once you're ready?" She took a few steps and turned back to him. "Be careful; there are monsters about. Good hunting, Bellinor."

Adoration bloomed in his chest while he watched her go. The holstered knives at her tights emphasised the strut of her hips.

Gods. You are beautiful.

--- --- ---

The trap was set; now came the wait. Darkness fell, and the preparations were ready. Each of her companions was huddled behind their own hiding spots. A shiver of anticipation ran through Nyx while she kept her attention on the line of trees. Out of the corner of her eye, Astarion touched his temple - the signal that he could hear the creature's approach. The night yawned, and its moon rose above the horizon, lighting up the clearing. Silence blanketed the area as though the forest held its breath. They waited.

Something stirred in the forest. Nyx's eyebrows went to her hairline when the trees shook and a massive silhouette stood between them - almost as tall as the trees. The moonlight illuminated a plume of breath, a dark snout and tips of antlers moving from side to side. Then, the beast stepped into full view.

By the Abyss... Her breath caught in her lungs, and she stifled a startle when Astarion touched his temple again.

He signalled to her. Wizard. (Says.) Bear. Elk. Undead.

She gave a curt nod, gathered her frost arrows and nocked her bow. Astarion selected poison-tipped arrows for his.

The bearelk ambled forward at a leisurely pace, unconcerned and unaware. Its dead white eyes fixed on the deer in the middle of the clearing, which was coated in more animal blood. A grizzly offering for a grizzlier beast. Its front quarters were taller than the rear, and despite the bend in its neck, its head was held high. Broad muscles rippled under black hide, holding up an enormous head sporting antlers wider than the stable doors that dripped with blood and skin from shedding velvet. Long curved claws were matched by longer curved canines protruding upwards from an underbite jaw.

It reached the carcass and sniffed so loudly that Nyx would've sworn it was feeding right next to her. Bone crunching noises carried over the clearing as it tore into the carcass, gulping down slabs of meat with one bite. Then a shimmer of magic warped the air around its feet.

Icy blue light burst from the ground as the warding glyph activated beneath the monstrosity. It reared, barking a series of flat notes, barely lifting its feet from the ground. Shards of magic grew from the glyph, encasing its hind legs in ice. Those laying in ambush sprang into action.

"Gelus." Nyx's frosted arrows accompanied Astarion, Tav and Gale's ranged attacks, adding to the layers of ice while the others engaged in melee, sprinting across the clearing to reach the creature.

The bearelk roared, eyes flaring with rage, and it slammed its front legs against the frozen ground, making it shatter. Halsin, in wild shape, was barrelling ahead of the others, gaining ground quickly. The bearelk wrested its legs free. It turned with remarkable speed to square itself with Halsin, and its eyes glowed brightly once they'd locked eyes. A heartbeat later, and the bearelk charged forward to meet Halsin, faster than a beast of that size should move, its eyes blazing a trail of white magic in its wake.

Tav's desperate plea echoed over both the cacophony of magic and the challenging roar from the bearelk. Halsin had come to an abrupt halt, the beast thundering toward him, its antlers lowered. The ranged fighters increased their efforts, and those on foot were too trying to shout Halsin from his stupor. He snapped out of it too late, turning to dodge, but the bearelk rammed into his side - a sickening dull thud threw Halsin back in a wide arc, and he fell limply to the ground.

Nyx recognised the intent behind bearelk's posture, lining itself up for another charge. She dashed from her spot, Astarion swearing behind her, scrambling to provide cover. Wrapping her limbs in magic, she was able to intercept the creature before it reached Halsin. She planted her feet and nocked an arrow, turning to stare it down. The beast's eyes flared white again, and a constricting dread gripped Nyx's chest. Her body became incredibly heavy and numb from its magic.

Monsters don't scare me anymore.

Light mantras combined with her grounding techniques dismantled the spell's hold on her body. Back in control, she shifted her aim to the creature's eye. The arrow met its mark, and the bearelk barked again, swerving to the side. Still at risk of being trampled, Nyx dove to Halsin's side and threw her force magic hard against the beast's antlers, diverting its charging path.

Lae'zel, Karlach and Wyll had caught up by that time, clamouring past Halsin and Nyx. White magic lit up the area again then snuffed after Astarion shot its other eye out. Regardless, the bearelk regained its bearings - even blinded, it was a formidable foe.

Shadowheart relieved Nyx and took over healing Halsin. His broken bones and damaged organs were beyond her own abilities. She was of little use, and thus she rejoined the battle.

The bearelk's strength was waning. It was blinded, bleeding and off-balance due to multiple lacerations, and it was missing one set of antlers. Karlach swung her great hammer at the other set when it attempted to maul her. It arched its body upwards, providing an opening, and Lae'zel severed the tendons in its front legs. Wyll drove his rapier into its side when it stumbled. Another round of disorientating spells, harassing ranged attacks and targeted weapon strikes tore the creature down. Karlach brought her hammer down on the beast's head, crushing its skull with repeated raging blows. Lae'zel delivered the last strike by plunging her great sword between its eyes, and its body stilled.

Nyx let out a relieved breath and puffed out her cheeks. She returned to Shadowheart and Halsin on shaky legs.

Shadowheart interrupted Nyx's inquiry with a clipped request of her own between casting healing spells. "Give this to Gale. Make sure it's dead.", and she shoved Lathander's mace into Nyx's hands.

"On it."

The Morninglord's weapon was delivered to Gale without further delay, and the conjuring of its sunbeam ensured that the undead monstrosity wouldn't rise again.

---

"Thorough as always." Gale set the mace on the ground and inclined his head to Shadowheart.

Nyx and Gale offered their assistance. Shadowheart promptly set them to work cleaning up wounds, splinting limbs and putting together tinctures against blood poisoning. Tav attended to Karlach and Lae'zel's minor injuries while Wyll addressed the gathering of onlookers who were eager to lay eyes on the monster.

Wyll puffed out his chest and gestured to the blackened skeleton with an open hand. "The beast has been defeated. Justice has prevailed, and it will kill no more."

Aileen clung to George's arm; both blanched at the sight of it. George swallowed and breathed, "Why would the Earthmother send such a thing?"

Gale shook his head while bandaging a paw and projected his voice, "Not of Chauntea. Bearelk are the result of curses, not divine displeasure."

Nyx's blemish itched fervently at the topic while the farmers expressed concern about Halsin and the other injured fighters.

Tav stood wiping her hands on her pants. "We didn't expect to face something that big and walk away unscathed. Halsin is in excellent hands; you can't ask for better attendants than those three taking care of him."

Flatter.

Gale sat up immediately and beamed brighter than the moon. Tav and Karlach joined Wyll, distracting the audience by regaling the tale of the battle with the beast. The onlookers 'oohing' and 'aahing' at their companion's might. Gale, Shadowheart and Nyx shared knowing grins.

Nyx leaned toward Gale and ventured, "You think it came from the Shadowcurse?"

"Yes," he shot the bones another glare over his shoulder. "Shadowheart, what's your estimation? I'm hardly the expert here."

Shadowheart's eyebrows bobbed once and then drew back together in concentration. Not taking her eyes off her work, she said, "Didn't pay it much attention it at first, but now that you mentioned it - it does reek of it."

Nyx swore silently when her blemish itched. "Should it not have died with the curse?"

Shadowheart didn't reply.

Gale shrugged and mused, "It may have already left the curse following the army. Wasn't present to be dispelled? Curses are complex and can be unpredictable. Far from a science, I can assure you."

That didn't make Nyx feel any more at ease, especially not when her own supposed dispelled-curse-induced blemish got riled up in its presence.

I'll need to ask Shadowheart about it.

Under the combined efforts of the three healers, they patched up Halsin to the point where his body could shift back to normal with ease. Regardless, it took several farmhands and their own able-bodied companions to wrestle his bulky and unconscious body onto a stretcher in order to carry him back to the barn for further recovery.

Aileen had a hand on her chest. "Earthmother provides. I don't even want to think of what would have happened if you didn't show up."

Tav sidled next to her and patted her back. "The little people look out for each other."

Aileen smiled and directed to George, "Dear, I'm going to get cooking."

George's face lit up, and he chuckled. "A feast! I’ll fetch the others."

Tav looked between them and held up her hands. "Please, there is no need to put yourselves out for us."

"Nonsense!" Aileen gathered up her skirts and set off to the farmstead with a determined huff reminiscent of Tav's own.

George hurried on after and called over his shoulder. "Ya won't regret it. My wife is the best host in the Realms! And we're going to hear ya tell that story again!"

---

Nyx had retrieved her clothes and bathing items from her tent, and snuck out of their party’s makeshift setup inside the overnight barn. Intent on finding a private spot to wash away the bearelk rot from her person before celebratory dinner was officially served. Fortunately, there was a floodplain pool walking distance from the farm down by the river. She organised her things on its sandy shore and waded into the water, careful not to disturb the sediment, preserving the sparkling water stretching out before her.

"A midnight swim, darling?", he queried out of sight.

Nyx was submerged up to her neck in the water. The refreshingly cool current that stroked against her skin was heavenly.

He stepped from the forest, and she drew a little closer. "Going to brave the water?"

The moonlight danced upon his features, and that delicious, wicked smile crept onto his face. He tilted his head and lulled, "Hmm, it depends - are you going to make it worth my while?"

Nyx snorted and turned away, wading further into the river. She could practically hear him pout.

She admired the moon above when hands grasped her waist from behind, making her jump. He chuckled wryly, his hands travelling to her back while she turned to face him. She hadn't even heard him disturb the water, his time hunting in the Shadowlands had served him well.

"Really, partially dressed?", he tutted. "Are you really going to bathe with your clothes on?"

Nyx bit her lip trying to suppress a smile at the mirth in his expression and stated evenly, "Yes"

He scoffed. "That certainly won't do."

Both his roaming hands and the state of his own undress beneath the waters became terribly distracting. Heat rose in her body despite the cold water. She hooked her arms around his neck, allowing her to suspend her legs as he slipped her out of her smalls.

Nyx took it upon herself to educate him. "Experience recommends to be at least partly dressed, lest bandits find you with your pants down. It also makes for markedly improved fighting."

His pitched laugh escaped him. "Ah, my sweet. No need to fret, I'm here." He bundled her wet clothes and tossed it to the shore where it made a splat in the general vicinity of the rest of their discarded gear.

She hmmed impressed, and he pulled her closer with a sly smile. "Unless," his fingers stroked circles on her thigh and many salacious things came to mind before he continued, "You'd rather, we practise a bit of knife play? For, oh, you know - in case of bandits."

Several emotions must have passed over her face since his grin merely widened. She blurted in exasperated amusement, "You want to have a naked dual in the middle of the night? Soaking wet? While in the river, I take?"

"Sounds like a fine night's entertainment," he purred, rubies alight.

It was hard to tell whether he was being serious or having her on. She narrowed her gaze and quipped, "Surely the others would hear the ruckus and think we're truly being attacked by bandits. Or another bearelk."

"They're welcome to join."

A half snort, half huff blew past her lips. "And what if you end up with a knife in your ear?"

"Ooh,", he pressed her flush against him. "I do like it when you talk dirty to me." Before she could answer he captured her mouth in a kiss that made her hum in surprise and appreciation.

Infuriating man.

He pulled away, releasing her from a desire-filled haze. His lips brushed over the warmth of her cheek and he breathed past her ear, "I would like to help you with this fever at some point."

More heat and tension coursed through her body. He chuckled, breathing in the blush at her ear. She cursed her traitorous body for being so - so blatantly obvious.

Can I not even muster a sliver of demure? Honestly, Nyx.

As though he overheard her thoughts. "I adore your lingering attraction to me."

Nyx's brows knit at the phrasing, and she gave him an arched eyebrow.

His bravado suddenly gone, he gazed toward their discarded clothing. He faced her again and said, "I don't wish to sour our moment with...", trailing off.

"Nothing has been soured. I would like to think that we can talk about whatever is on our minds." She grimaced at herself. "Hmm, that sounds completely hypocritical of me."

Time to pluck the thorn out before it festers.

He gave her a side-long look.

"Perhaps I should start?" She took a steadying breath, extended her hand to the shore, called on her magic and caught the soap bar. He visibly perked up; more curious than anything else.

Her face burned in an entirely different way, but she forged on and pressed her pinky into the soap after wetting it. She showed him the tiny crescent indent of her fingernail, and swallowed the knot in her throat. "I have a schism in my head." He frowned, and she steeled herself. "'The tiniest pinprick', my mother said." She shook her head solemnly, the bone deep sadness flooding to the forefront of her mind stirring the demons from their slumber.

She studied the soap bar, and said, not meeting his eyes, "It could have well been a chasm... It was, to me. Still likely is." She clicked her tongue. Pausing for a moment while he merely held her. "A portal of sorts." She stared at the indent; scared to face whatever judgement may be in his expression.

He prompted cautiously when she didn't continue, "A portal to where, my love?"

Nyx looked up at the last words. Nothing in his features belying the sentiment she hoped would remain. Her throat too thick, she simply stated in a small voice, "Lolth's domain."

Rubies searched her face for a few moments. In what felt like ages, his unreadable expression gave way to realisation. Then, unexpectedly, it became awash with thoughtfulness.

Nyx blinked, unsure of whether this was an appropriate reaction to her confession. It was the first time she'd ever had to confess - Sanika and Keetjah had found out the same way Nyx had, whereas Clive (being Clive) figured it out by himself. She pressed her lips together waiting for his response, her stomach folding in on itself as the silence dragged on.

"Hmm.", was all he said, a finger to his lips.

By the Abyss!...

Wait...

That's the same response he had to Raphael's news?

Her nerves prickled through her body as though the water had become colder, and he finally met her eyes. He asked, "The 'war' in your head, and the source of your powers? The... 'cascades'?"

Nyx didn't know whether to be impressed or concerned, all her emotions were bunched up together in her stomach right now. A voice croaked, "Yes.", taken aback that it was hers.

He tilted his head. "No wonder the devil had been pestering you." His grin easing her anxiety and he stroked her back absently, relieving more of her tension. "One thing I don't understand though."

Nyx held her breath.

"Why would your mother want to - oh. Oh." Another thoughtful crease spread across his brow.

"Sow chaos and discord?"

"Touché... Well," he straightened and gathered her free hand to his lips. He arched an eyebrow and said onto her, "I do believe you're getting 'wrinkly', my sweet - Shall we?" He took the soap from her other hand.

Nyx blinked. She welcomed the change in topic, but trepidation gnawed at her still. "So?... You seem to be taking this... Better than I expected."

He tutted and lilted, "My dearest Nyx, after all the outlandish things we'd been through - bearelks, tadpoles stuck in our brains, purple glistening monsters, multiple cult conspiracies, hell fiends, warring gods and a centuries old curse… Not to mention the gaggle of weirdoes back at camp. I'd think you'd ought to give me more credit for taking the 'bizarre' in my stride."

"Ah, I see," she returned his smirk and said sincerely, "Thank you." And she allowed herself to be distracted by the rest of their mutual bathing routine - grinning like an idiot.

Or a 'weirdo', depending on who you ask.

Latin incantation:

Gelus: Frost or ice.

I have been cooking up this battle for some time now after researching creatures that could potentially originate from the Shadowcurse (and exist outside of it). The setup was a lot of fun - as well as seeing it play out, much like the Neothelid back in Act I.

Bearelk modified from DeckofJokersGames' Bearelk