The Quest for Dawn

Chapter 16: An Impromptu Soiree - Part Two

As the last of the evening's guests departed, the grand doors closed with a hushed sigh, sealing the echoes of laughter and music behind them. Tavriel placed her delicate hand on Astarion's arm, guiding him up the stairs towards their bedchamber. The ebony staff in his grasp dragged lightly along the steps, its touch more familiar than necessary in these halls.

The memory of Tavriel's enchanted song still hung in the air, weaving through Astarion's senses like a silken thread; though blind, he could see the love they shared laid bare for all to witness. The depth of her devotion had been tangible, engulfing him in an embrace that warmed his very soul.

Entering the bedchamber, Astarion navigated slowly to the bed, his slender fingertips tracing the wall as he leaned his staff against it. He couldn't help but smile at the thought of how Tavriel's voice never failed to stir his passion. He turned toward her, his face turned away.

"Darling," he murmured, "your song... it has left me quite enamored." His voice was a low, playful purr. "I find myself... drawn to desire."

Tavriel's eyes sparkled as she met his unseeing gaze, reflecting the moonlight that streamed through the windows. "Astarion, my love, I am always yours," she whispered, stepping closer to him.

"Your words bring warmth to my heart," Astarion replied, reaching out to seek her face, and brush his fingers gently along her cheek. "Let us celebrate our love tonight, just the two of us."

Tavriel smiled, her heart swelling with affection as she took his hand, leading him to the sanctuary of their bed. Her delicate fingers reached for the buttons of Astarion's doublet, deftly undoing them one by one. As she helped him out of the garment, Astarion focused on the sensations before him. He could feel the warmth radiating from her body, mingling with the faint scent of jasmine that clung to her hair.

"Your fragrance is intoxicating, my love," he murmured appreciatively, leaning in closer to brush his cheek against the silken cascade of her hair.

"Thank you, Astarion," she replied softly, her breath warm against his skin. "I thought you might enjoy it."

Astarion's lips curled into a contented smile as he nuzzled against Tavriel's hair. "It smells like home," he murmured softly. His hands moved of their own accord, lightly tracing the curves of her body. He wanted to memorize every inch of her in this moment.

Tavriel responded with an appreciative hum, her fingers gliding along his arms in response to his touch. The sensation was both familiar and new, drawing them in with a gentle force that entranced them both.

"Come closer, darling," he whispered, reaching to guide her face to his. The softness of his lips traced the curve of her neck upwards, guided by the heat of her skin and the steady thrum of her heartbeat beneath his touch.

When their lips finally met, it was as though a spark ignited between them, a connection born of love and desire that sent shivers down Astarion's spine. He savored the tender caress, allowing himself to become lost in the moment as their passion consumed them both.

With each pulse of their essence, the world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the warmth of their embrace and the song of their love echoing within the walls of their bedchamber.

Astarion's fingertips, usually so deft and precise, fumbled with the intricate laces of Tavriel's bodice. He could feel the heat of her body beneath his touch, igniting a sense of urgency within him that left his fingers clumsy and uncooperative. With a soft laugh, Tavriel gently took his hands in hers, guiding them away from the stubborn ribbons.

"Allow me," she whispered, her breath warm against his cheek. Astarion nodded, stepping back to give her space as he turned his attention to his own clothing, slipping off the white shirt that lay beneath his doublet. The rustle of fabric reached his ears as Tavriel continued to undress, each whispering sound painting a vivid picture in his mind of her naked form soon to be revealed.