Many, many years before the events of the illithid lies a beginning.

You were strolling through the streets of Baldur's Gate at night after deciding to go on a walk to get rid of the feeling of boredom. Unbeknownst to you, you caught the attention of a white-haired man who was headed in the direction of the Elfsong Tavern. He stops in his tracks for a moment, seeming to have some internal debate as his eyes follow your movements while you walk in the opposite direction.