Beauty and the Bite || Astarion x Fem!Tav

Her Nose Stuck in a Book

The Library in Baldur's Gate was indeed a marvel, drawing in countless tourists with its vast collection of knowledge and rare manuscripts. Bards, in particular, harbored dreams of seeing their works proudly displayed on the prestigious high shelves alongside renowned literary masterpieces.

The shelves themselves were a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of the city. Each book, scroll, and manuscript told a story, contributing to the collective wisdom stored within the library's hallowed walls. Citizens who were fortunate enough to have their creations archived in this esteemed institution felt a deep sense of accomplishment and recognition.

Tav, with her vibrant curiosity and insatiable appetite for knowledge, had become a familiar presence within the hallowed halls of the Library. Her love for books transcended the ordinary, and she had developed a unique bond with the books themselves.

Each day, Tav would make her way through the labyrinth of bookshelves, her fingers gently tracing the spines of ancient tomes and her eyes lighting up with excitement at the prospect of discovering something new. The librarians recognized her passion and welcomed her as a regular visitor.

Her beauty was not only in her physical appearance but in the way her eyes sparkled with curiosity. Tav's thirst for knowledge seemed unquenchable, and the library became her sanctuary. Even if she wasn't looking for books, she visited the library every day to sit down and read.

Today, that was exactly what she was doing. She was nose-deep in a book she picked up this week. She sat in her corner of the library, with her blue dress flowing to the floor like a waterfall. As she flipped the page, a blur of another person filled the corner of her eye. She turned away from her book and saw Gaddis.

Gaddis was a rather handsome man, often seen entertaining the females at the Elfsong tavern. His presence in the library was a rare sight, as the establishment usually catered to scholars and intellectuals. Gaddis, however, seemed out of place among the meticulously organized shelves and studious patrons.

Tav couldn't help but be intrigued by the sudden appearance of Gaddis. As he approached, a mischievous grin played on his lips, contrasting with the solemn atmosphere of the library. He greeted Tav with a bow, acknowledging her presence with a glint of familiarity in his eyes.

"Ah, Tav, the seeker of wisdom. Fancy meeting you in this sea of books," Gaddis said, his voice smooth and resonant.

Tav, momentarily confused by the unexpected company, closed her book. "Gaddis, what brings you here? I didn't think the Elfsong needed a break from your charismatic performances."

"Coming to see you." Gaddis smirks.

Tav couldn't help but roll her eyes at Gaddis's cheeky response. If Gaddis wanted to keep his crush on her a secret, he wasn't doing a good job at it. His intentions were as transparent as the crystal-clear streams that flowed through the forest outside Baldur's Gate.

"Well, you've found me, Gaddis," Tav replied. She has never been interested in the life of Gaddis.

Gaddis chuckled, seemingly undeterred by Tav's lack of interest. He pulled up a chair, making himself comfortable as if he belonged in the scholarly atmosphere of the library.

"I thought I'd take a break from the lively tunes of the Elfsong and delve into the world of knowledge," Gaddis explained, gesturing towards the shelves around them. "Who knows, maybe I'll find something intriguing enough to impress even you."

Tav raised an eyebrow, skeptical yet curious about Gaddis's sudden interest in intellectual pursuits. "Impress me with knowledge? That's a bold claim, considering your usual repertoire involves charming folks with fists."

Gaddis leaned back in his chair, a playful glint in his eyes. "You never know, sweetheart."

Tav, unable to resist a challenge, decided to play along. "Well, Gaddis, let's see if you can handle it. What topic are you interested in exploring today?"

Gaddis paused for a moment as if contemplating his choice. "How about something mysterious and adventurous? I've heard tales of hidden treasures and ancient artifacts. That should be entertaining, don't you think?"

"Hidden treasures, you say? I shouldn't be suprised. But alright, let me find a book for you."

As Tav navigated the shelves with practiced ease, Gaddis observed her with a smirk. His eyes wandered down her body as she walked.

After a few moments, Tav returned with a dusty tome bound in worn leather. "Here you go, Gaddis. 'Legends of Forgotten Treasures.' It's filled with tales of hidden riches, mysterious maps, and daring adventurers. Give it a read, and we'll see if you can impress me with your newfound knowledge."

Gaddis accepted the book with a grin, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Challenge accepted, Tav. Who knows, maybe I'll discover a hidden talent for unraveling mysteries."

Tav picked up her books, placing them in her basket. "Now, thank you for entertaining me, but I need to go check in on my father."

Gaddis laughs, "Your father always needs checking up on!"

Tav shot Gaddis a glare, "He may be getting on in years, but he's still sharper than most. Unlike some, he doesn't rely on bar fights alone to get by."

"I wouldn't be surprised if I see him in the news as the city's new serial killer. He seems just about wicked enough to do something like that."

That was Tav's cue to leave. She gives one last look to Gaddis before departing. "You have a wild imagination, Gaddis. But I'll leave you to your treasure tales and sinister speculations. I have more reliable things to attend to."

Left to his own devices, Gaddis delved into the 'Legends of Forgotten Treasures.' The tales within transported him to distant lands, filled with mythical beasts, cunning rogues, and the allure of untold wealth.

As the evening shadows deepened, Gaddis found himself engrossed in the stories, occasionally glancing towards the library entrance, half-expecting Tav to return for him.