The Intellect Devourer, known to Melvin as his dear friend, was once a member of a powerful Mind Flayer colony. He was always curious about the world beyond their colony and often snuck out to explore. On one such adventure, he stumbled upon a group of humans who were searching for artifacts of great power. Intrigued, he observed them from a distance, learning about their culture and society.
As he continued to observe the humans, he began to feel a sense of kinship with them. He became fascinated with their individuality and emotions, which were foreign concepts to the Mind Flayer society. The Intellect Devourer knew he could not stay with his own kind after developing such an affinity for humans.
One day, he was tasked by his colony to infiltrate Arcanum by taking over Duke William Cassius. But in his weakened state, he was unable to complete the mission and was discovered by Melvin. The young boy's kindness towards him touched his "heart", and he saw in Melvin a kindred spirit who understood him.
When Melvin became sick, the Intellect Devourer saw an opportunity to fulfill his friend's last wish and took over his body. Disguised as Melvin, the Intellect Devourer now works towards his friend's ideals, protecting and aiding the humans he has grown to admire while keeping his true identity a secret. He hopes that one day, humans and Mind Flayers can coexist peacefully, and he continues to study and learn about them to achieve this goal.