Astarion: Difference between revisions

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| image = Astarion.png
| image = Astarion.png
}}
}}
{{SpoilerWarning}}
{{Companion tab}}
{{CompanionTab|Astarion}}
{{Infobox creature
{{Infobox character
| class = [[Rogue]]
| class = [[Rogue]]
| name = Astarion
| name = Astarion
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| background = [[Charlatan]]
| background = [[Charlatan]]
| race = [[High elf]]
| race = [[High elf]]
| voice = Neil Newbon
| creator = Stephen Rooney
| creator = Stephen Rooney
| full_name = Astarion Ancunín
| full name = Astarion Ancunín
| age = {{ublist|
| age = {{ublist|
* 39 years (turned)
* 39 years (turned)
* 239 years (current)}}
* 239 years (current)}}
| hometown = [[Baldur's Gate]]
| hometown = [[Baldur's Gate]]
| role = [[Origin characters|Origin character]], [[Companions|companion]]}}
| role = [[Origin characters|Origin character]], [[Companions|companion]]|va=[https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0627667 Neil Newbon]|initiative=+3|movement m=9|weight kg=75|level=1|str=8|dex=17|con=14|int=13|wis=13|cha=10|prof bonus=+2|dex save prof=yes|passives=Darkvision, Fey Ancestry|size=Medium|type=Humanoid|int save prof=Yes|actions=Vampire Bite|title=The Pale Elf}}


'''Astarion''' is an [[Origins|Origin]] character and a [[Companion|companion]] in ''Baldur's Gate 3''. He is a [[High Elf]] [[Rogue]] with the [[Charlatan]] background, specialising in [[Stealth]] and [[Sneak Attack|Sneak Attacks]]. He is portrayed by {{va|Neil Newbon}} and was created by Stephen Rooney.  
'''Astarion''' is an [[Origins|Origin]] character and a [[Companion|companion]] in ''Baldur's Gate 3''. He is a [[High Elf]] [[Rogue]] with the [[Charlatan]] background, specialising in [[Stealth]] and [[Sneak Attack|Sneak Attacks]]. He is portrayed by {{va|Neil Newbon}} and was created by Stephen Rooney.  


{{Q|And to think I was ready to decorate the ground with your innards. Apologies.|Astarion, apologising after a misunderstanding}}
{{DiQ|And to think I was ready to decorate the ground with your innards. Apologies.|Astarion|, apologising after a misunderstanding}}


{{TOC|limit=3}}
{{TOC|limit=3}}


== Overview ==
== Overview ==
=== Background ===
=== Background ===
Astarion prowled the night as a vampire spawn for centuries, serving a sadistic master until he was snatched away. Now he can walk in the light and has the chance at a new life, but how long can he keep his past buried?
Astarion prowled the night as a vampire spawn for two centuries in Baldur's Gate, enslaved by a sadistic vampire lord named Cazador Szarr until he was snatched away by the mind flayers on the Nautiloid and tadpoled. Now he can walk in the sunlight, wade through water, enter homes uninvited, and resist his master's compulsions. Astarion now has a chance at a new life where he can make his own choices, and possibly gain the true freedom and safety he so desperately seeks.
 
=== Starting Class ===
Astarion starts as a [[Rogue]]. Upon reaching level three, he will default to the [[Arcane Trickster]] subclass.
 
=== Special Features ===
 
* Astarion will receive the {{SAI|Happy (Condition)}} after using the {{SAI|Vampire Bite}} ability on a humanoid.
* Astarion is immune to conditions and effects that do not affect undead, such as [[Mummy Rot (Condition)]].


=== Companion quest ===
=== Companion Quest ===
{{Main|The Pale Elf}}
{{Main|The Pale Elf}}
Astarion's companion quest is called [[The Pale Elf]]. His story unravels as Astarion explores his newfound freedom, coming to terms with the abuse inflicted on him, and that he has inflicted on others.
Astarion's companion quest is called [[The Pale Elf]]. His story unravels as he explores his newfound freedom and how he can keep it, as well as coming to terms with the abuse inflicted on him, and the harm he has inflicted on others.


=== Recruitment ===
=== Recruitment ===
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{{Main|Astarion/approval}}
{{Main|Astarion/approval}}
[[File:Astarion Approval.png|44px|left|alt=Astarion Approves|link=|Astarion Approves]]
[[File:Astarion Approval.png|44px|left|alt=Astarion Approves|link=|Astarion Approves]]
Astarion approves of displays of power and cruelty, and appreciates snarkiness and mocking. He is inspired when the player gains access to areas or information by deceiving others. The player does not have to be "evil" to gain his approval, however — he approves when the player makes choices that support independence and autonomy, and when the player helps certain characters in need.
Astarion approves of displays of power and cruelty, and appreciates snarkiness and mocking. He is inspired when the player gains access to areas or information by deceiving others. The player does not have to be "evil" to gain his approval, however — he approves when the player makes choices that support independence and autonomy, are understanding toward his past, and when the player helps certain characters in need.
 
Astarion disapproves of displays of weakness and does not like acts of kindness or charity that offer no reward. He also disapproves when the player tries to restrict him or deny him his autonomy.
 
=== Romance ===
{{Hatnote|See main article: [[Astarion/Romance]]}}
Astarion can be romanced by characters of any gender. His romance deals heavily with his personal character growth, his relationship with intimacy, his discovery of what he wants in life, and the reclaiming of his autonomy. Astarion's romance also has different outcomes depending on the choices made at the end of his companion quest.
 
== Description ==


Astarion disapproves of displays of weakness and does not like acts of kindness or charity that offer no reward. He also disapproves when the player tries to rein him in or restrict him in some way.
=== Appearance ===
Astarion is a high elf vampire spawn that appears to be in his late 30s despite being multiple centuries old. He is approximately 5'11" tall, physically fit, and has sharp facial features. He has pale, pallid-looking skin with dark circles and bags under his crimson red eyes, as well as smile lines around his mouth and a faint beauty mark on his right cheek. He also has long pointed ears, well-manicured nails, and medium length, white-silver curly hair that is styled with pomade and curls around his ears. He has a bite-mark scar on the left side of his neck from when his old master Cazador Szarr originally bit him to turn him into a vampire, and covering most of his back, Astarion has a myriad of scars that were carved into him by Cazador. When it comes to clothes and shoes, Astarion's choice in attire is usually on the fancier side, choosing often to wear elaborate doublets and leather chaps with embroidered leather shoes. He takes meticulous care to embroider and repair the clothing that he owns, keeping it in good condition as best he can. Astarion is also very mindful of his hygiene and physical appearance overall, especially regarding his hair, nails, skin, and clothing.


== Personality ==
=== Personality ===
Astarion has the demeanour of a charming and confident nobleman with a biting wit. He enjoys making sarcastic remarks and japes at other people's expense, all the while acting smug and haughty. His decades of being a vampire have left him with a lack of moral scruples compared to the more upstanding members of the party, making him come off as ruthless at best or outright sadistic at worst. While he does attempt to suck the player’s blood non-consensually during one of the first long rests after recruiting him, he does respect the player’s decision regardless of whether it is to allow him to drink or forbid him from drinking their blood.
Astarion's personality at the start is very much influenced by his own background as an upper middle class high elf magistrate and his time spent as a vampire spawn slave under Cazador Szarr. Astarion is very charming, eloquent, cunning, witty, sarcastic, and practical. But, having been forced to be out for himself and having felt abandoned by the world and its heroes, Astarion is also very bitter, cynical, self-centered, manipulative, distrustful, prejudiced, and vengeful. His top priorities are his own autonomy, his own safety, and his revenge on Cazador. He is largely apathetic toward the feelings of others and has little interest in helping them for no reward, as he feels that if he didn't get help, nobody else should. He also holds prejudices against the Gur people and small races such as gnomes.


At the beginning of the game's story, Astarion has recently escaped his abuser and discovered that sunlight no longer hurts him. As such, he comes off as reckless and hedonistic at times, wishing to enjoy his newfound freedom as much as possible. He shares this outlook with fellow party member [[Karlach]]. Once it is discovered that his immunity to sunlight is due to the [[Tadpole]], Astarion is less excited than the rest of the party at the prospect of destroying the tadpoles, instead wishing to find a way to wield their power instead.  
Astarion at the beginning is also very fear-motivated and has a low self-worth, despite his confident and arrogant persona. He will attempt to manipulate others with sex to get them on his side so that he has protection from Cazador, as he believes sex is all he is good for and it is one of few ways he knows how to form relationships with other people. He is also willing to do almost anything to gain power or advantage so that he can secure his own safety and avoid being under Cazador's control again, even if it means trampling over others or doing something he finds personally distasteful. Although, he has reservations about sacrificing his bodily autonomy even if it means he can gain an advantageous power.


Tragically, his demeanour belies the trauma of decades of abuse. Astarion's sire, the vampire lord [[Cazador]], performed horrifically depraved acts on Astarion that left both physical and psychological scars. He is utterly ruthless in his pursuit of revenge on Cazador and is not afraid to commit acts of cruelty or deception in the pursuit of that quest, being one of the few party members enthusiastic about making a pact with [[Raphael]]. The crux of his [[The Pale Elf|personal quest]] is whether he will follow in Cazador's footsteps and steal the power of the Vampire Ascendent for himself or kill Cazador and stop the rite.  
However, as the story progresses, Astarion can develop and change his personality depending on how he is guided during his questline, just like other companions. If Astarion is guided down a good path where his fears, beliefs, and unhealthy behaviors, are not wholly validated, he will grow into his best self by beginning to deconstruct his cynical worldview, learning to truly value and stand up for himself, showing empathy and care toward others, reconciling with those he has hurt in the past, developing a healthy relationship with sex and romance, forming genuine bonds with other people that he trusts, breaking the cycle of abuse, and healing from his trauma. But, if Astarion is led down a bad path where his behaviors, fears, and beliefs are validated and encouraged, he will instead become the very worst version of himself, a fearful, power-hungry, and abusive man who has repressed his trauma and continued the abuse cycle.


== Gameplay ==
== Gameplay ==
{{infobox statistics
| bodystyle = nowrap
| class = [[Rogue]]
| level = 1
| race = [[High elf]]
| name = Astarion
| weight_kg = 75
| weight_lb = 150
| movement_speed_meters = 9
| movement_speed_feet = 30
| str        = 8
| dex          = 17
| con          = 14
| int        = 13
| wis        = 13
| cha          = 10
| dex_save_proficiency = yes
| int_save_proficiency = yes
| feature1_name =  Fey Ancestry
| feature1_description = Immunity to sleep and advantage on saves against Charmed.
| feature2_name = Darkvision
| feature2_description = Can attack creatures in the dark without disadvantage, up to a range of 12 m (40 ft).
| action1_name = Vampire Bite
| action1 = Action: Target 1 creature, range 1.5 m / 5 ft. Target takes 2d4 {{damage color|Piercing}} damage. If target is Humanoid, they gain [[Bloodless]] and Astarion gains [[Happy (Condition)|Happy]].}}
Astarion's default class is rogue. He can cast the [[Fire Bolt]] cantrip as a high elf, and as a vampire spawn he has access to a unique [[Vampire Bite]], however this action does not appear until after the party finds out about his vampirism.
Astarion's default class is rogue. He can cast the [[Fire Bolt]] cantrip as a high elf, and as a vampire spawn he has access to a unique [[Vampire Bite]], however this action does not appear until after the party finds out about his vampirism.


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* [[Stealth]] (x2)}}
* [[Stealth]] (x2)}}


=== Unlockable actions ===
=== Unlockable bonuses ===
The following actions are unlockable through certain decisions in Astarion's companion quest:
The following bonuses and actions are unlockable through certain decisions in Astarion's companion quest:
{{hlist|
{{hlist|
* {{SAI|Vampire Ascendant}}
* {{SAI|Ascendant Bite}}  
* {{SAI|Ascendant Bite}}  
* {{SAI|Misty Escape (Vampire Ascendant)|Misty Escape}}}}
* {{SAI|Misty Escape (Vampire Ascendant)|Misty Escape}}}}


== History ==
== History ==
Astarion was a young magistrate in [[Baldur's Gate]], until one day he was assaulted and almost killed by a gang of [[Gur|Gurs]]. The vampire lord, [[Cazador Szarr]], who had taken interest in him, approached Astarion and turned him into one of his slaves – a vampire spawn.


After being turned, Astarion and his vampire spawn siblings lived at the [[Szarr Palace]] in the city. Cazador held complete control over his spawn, able to "puppet" their bodies and bend them to his will. He used this power to torment Astarion, torturing him physically and emotionally for centuries. At his command, Astarion was himself seducing the nobility of Baldur's Gate, luring young aristocrats back to be fed on by his master.
=== Pre-Vampirism ===
Astarion was a young magistrate in [[Baldur's Gate]], until one day he was assaulted and almost killed by a gang of [[Gur]] because of a ruling he had handed down. The vampire lord, [[Cazador Szarr]], who had taken interest in him, approached Astarion while he was dying and turned him into one of his slaves – a vampire spawn.
 
=== Life as Cazador's Spawn ===
After being turned, Astarion and his vampire spawn "siblings" lived at the [[Szarr Palace]] in the Upper City. And being vampire spawn, Astarion and his "siblings" were completely subservient to Cazador, bound to him through the bond of creator and creation. Cazador could use this power to completely control Astarion and the others, and he imposed three main commands onto his spawn. 1. "Thou must not drink from thinking creatures, 2. "Thou must never leave my side, unless commanded," and 3. "Thou must obey me in all things." Astarion and the other spawn could not physically refuse these commands. Cazador would then use this power and these "rules" to physically and emotionally abuse and torture Astarion for centuries, and any form of attempted resistance or escape was met with harsh punishment. For example, Astarion was once sealed away in a coffin, starving, for over a year because he had tried to disobey one of Cazador's commands. Also, the abuse inflicted onto Astarion and the other spawn was brutal and frequent. They were physically tortured and had "poetry" carved into their backs by Cazador, they were frequently emotionally abused as Cazador would play mind games on them, they would be fed dead rats and bugs, they would be commanded to physically torture themselves and the other spawn, they would be starved for long periods of time, and also be forced to venture out into the Lower City to seduce people and engage in sexual activity with them so that they could lure them back to Szarr Palace to later be fed on by Cazador.
 
However, while out in a city tavern seducing a young noble to bring back to Cazador, Astarion was abducted by the rogue [[Nautiloid]] and was tadpoled alongside other victims.
 
== Story Involvement ==
{{UnderConstruction}}
{{Spoiler warning}}
 
=== The Pale Elf ===
{{Hatnote|See main article: [[The Pale Elf]]}}''The Pale Elf'' is Astarion's personal quest. It is added to the journal upon recruiting him, and it spans all three acts of the game.
 
==== Act One ====
 
==== Act Two ====
 
==== Act Three ====
 
=== Endings ===
 
== Quest Rewards ==
{{Spoiler warning}}
''If Cazador is defeated:''
*{{MdRarityItem|Rhapsody}} as loot from Cazador
*{{MdRarityItem|Woe}} as loot from Cazador
*[[High Security Vault n°3 Key]]
*[[Szarr Family Ring]]
''If Cazador is defeated and Astarion does not complete the Rite of Profane Ascension:''
*Aid of [[Ulma]] and the [[Gur]] for [[Gather Your Allies]]
''If Cazador is defeated and Astarion completes the Rite of Profane Ascension:''
*Aid of Astarion's servants of the night for [[Gather Your Allies]]
*Astarion gains the passive feature [[Vampire Ascendant]] which grants the actions {{SAI|Ascendant Bite}} and {{SAI|Misty Escape (Vampire Ascendant)}} and an additional {{DamageText|1d10|Necrotic}} damage to weapon and unarmed attacks
 
== Interactions & Scenes ==
{{UnderConstruction}}
 
=== In-Party Interactions & Scenes ===
As a companion while out traveling, Astarion has unique dialogue interactions available during and after certain events. Whenever one is available, he will have a floating [ ! ] icon above him.
 
==== Act One ====
 
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=dRiHI8fMchEazdey First Meeting with Astarion]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=qKoEV1vA3tYGuqaL&t=852 Boar Discovery Scene]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=vBrE-HsYA33svyZp&t=3920 Lathander's Lance Scene]
* [https://youtu.be/ytvhOR0Hj-Q?si=o1LewIwKx6IbhSCe Astarion Barn Scene]
 
==== Act Two ====
 
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=V2941P24HWpLMKfq&t=4793 Raphael at Last Light Scene]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=eg-yHM1BtjMCn_Q2&t=4910 "Why Ask Raphael?" Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=hbBp-poQzDLbgh5K&t=4948 "Brothers and Sisters" Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=gvx0ULBfZ3l76SXf&t=5000 Making Raphael's Deal]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=uGht3ylIKt5JXcwt&t=5054 Post Raphael Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=h1ly7SXExc-Aw_2h&t=5081 Post Yurgir Fight Conversation]
 
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=bw5PWCbQRJlBXmKf&t=5512 Ritual Whereabouts & Implications Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=yRhoykOm38IxxgSO&t=5698 Araj Oblodra Scene (No bite)]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=Mruvdz7nNIhZP-SB&t=5938 Araj Oblodra Scene (With bite)]
 
==== Act Three ====
 
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=sw7qglut3NmZSBUt&t=7102 Gur Camp Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/Nu-8Wb7BTG0?si=d7GZPx_jsgj0hd3I Astarion Act 3 Breakup Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=Ky-8nVogMSS3yTTU&t=7516 Shapeshifter Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=tc1Z8KXhWey25gu8&t=7532 Worried about Cazador Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/-FI0NbbwC7M?si=39FAv-nOjHyWeikt Love Test Scene] (Romance only)
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=4aITOZUtPAxm_g3L&t=8338 Drow Twins Invite (Rejection, romanced)] (Romance only)
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=4-Q5mvztCyMvvfLz&t=8380 Drow Twins Invite (Accepted, romanced)] (Romance only)
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=-rSrZmP_qC9zZa8n&t=8543 Petras and Dalyria at the Flophouse Scene]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=SPQFQNWz6txBqWUb&t=9063 City in the Daylight Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=iuCnP0VmAW1rZ0ah&t=9692 Astarion Enters Cazador's Palace]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=--wz9oir7UpwBG5z&t=9841 Astarion Confronts Godey]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=ncT7ULBGV65k_IVz&t=9944 Werewolf encounter]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=A0li_RHBSrI0k_Tp&t=9985 Finding the elevator]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=7sXAttd2cLuXaY6f&t=10017 Finding Cazador's Dungeon]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=A4WdrN2Q0CQmigXQ&t=10055 Astarion Meets Sebastian]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=dltldEzlCyCrFT9Y&t=10333 Astarion Meets the Gur Children]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=IG31nTaF2bzhM1gR&t=10684 Post Sebastian Discussion]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=u4TJl9ipJfu_n6yV&t=10905 Post Gur Children Discussion]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=HQqbsBqbEZRbBzya&t=11038 Astarion Confronts Cazador]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=ZYLLinIBUek7CDE2&t=11316 Astarion Kills Cazador (Stays spawn, other spawn freed)]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=XdJe4D2Dk1NTZgWt&t=11740 Astarion Ascends]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=MyKmwhrHYnmCVWp4&t=12014 Astarion Ascension Interrupted]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=n5SvA3xusO3Bk6Z2&t=12093 Astarion Forced to Stay Spawn (other spawn stay trapped)]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=qUad_kybmckOoveZ&t=12291 Astarion Spawn decision (kept in cells or killed)]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=wsnIDGoNi78Ou27t&t=12444 Spawn Astarion "I feel numb" Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=vrMkZU0p7Aq8ccP4&t=12571 Spawn Astarion and Gur Post Cazador Scene]
* [https://youtu.be/8d2G9pnucdA?si=rYMlEo1hv-ux67oK Ascended Astarion and Gur Post Cazador Scene]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=GEF7zzrJYhsgUCZ4&t=13721 Second Araj Oblodra Encounter]
* [https://youtu.be/CH1pGeFk4GQ?si=R1duC2iuyYWBvJMR Spawn Astarion Act 3 Breakup #2] (Spawn route, romance only)
* [https://youtu.be/sT11-zG9gdU?si=g7zaCIG2c9qgLJ0E Ascended Astarion Breakup Conversations] (Ascended route, romance only)
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=LPVVSNTcJ0LjuiqF&t=14193 Before Final Battle Conversation] (Spawn route, romance)
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=hLJuPzsg65Q1qSmY&t=14243 Astral Prism Conversations] (Spawn route, romance)
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=tJrnFjtZj9cwGCni&t=14747 High Hall Reaction]
 
=== Camp Interactions & Scenes ===
As a companion, Astarion has unique dialogue interactions and cutscenes available at camp. Whenever one is available, he will have a floating [ ! ] icon above him.
 
==== Act One ====
 
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=GC3XPpoiCE_3c9l3&t=456 Astarion First Night at Camp Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=eDgGkdQz2xlmEjC6&t=518 Astarion "How do you want to die?" Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=1F1zaRULZHhA70Qv&t=609 Astarion Stargazing Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=yphfJsfJU0V2UX16&t=960 First Bite Scene (Tav Survives)]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=yiFO2loVyHHH_oM5&t=1246 First Bite Scene Morning After (Tav Survives)]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=sVH15bIh4TmUW0dc&t=1442 First Bite Scene (Tav Dies)]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=9z7atBgbU51_4FLv&t=1652 First Bite Scene Morning After (Tav Dies)]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=l8uS_c9zT0vRPKY0&t=2245 Astarion "I Drunk a Bear" Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=f1gMrvzKO83KNius&t=2804 Astarion "You were my First" Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=oslrpmKEZZX49m0D&t=3300 Astarion Mirror Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/w8gbXb5_0UQ?si=aeHpIVuUQNZT3mD0 Astarion First Dream Visitor Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=xXMmkSl63jvJH3_q&t=3577 Astarion Tiefling Party Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=VMaBidxXqKNqKpod&t=3709 Astarion First Romance Scene] (Romance only)
* [https://youtu.be/jPMX9bM6oxM?si=wArR2-psRI9OKxF- Astarion Second Dream Visitor Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=KfPHgR8N3bPEUrUQ&t=4049 Astarion Scars Scene]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=89qa04KULF09mc8f&t=4400 Astarion "Favorite Lines" Conversation] (Romance only)
 
==== Act Two ====
 
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=qcEHuFJeBlozrpg7&t=4586 Astarion "I Feel a Connection" Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=i8xJi8KlXeQ3Ksma&t=5127 Raphael Reveals the Truth Scene]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=YmOvwTYIadrSAUh7&t=5321 Post Reveal Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=UDXcmUDUm5fgHsSs&t=6015 Post Araj Conversation/Confession (No bite)] (Act 2 romance scene variant, romance only)
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=gCgOSj-t74EA6AaH&t=6314 Post Araj Conversation/Coerced sex scene (No bite)] (Act 2 breakup scene, romance route only)
* [https://youtu.be/yPh_nE43KOU?si=gyiXExP1FxT9f6GP Post Araj Conversation Breakup (With bite)] (Act 2 breakup scene, romance route only)
* [https://youtu.be/xV2eBX1KHY8?si=3WE08xWDpQoGMzOe Astarion Post Yurgir Confession/Act 2 Romance Scene] (Act 2 romance scene variant, romance only)
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60Dbasj1JzU&ab_channel=FlowerVendor Post Araj Conversation (No bite, non-romanced)]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYVmQitPm_I&ab_channel=PerfectParadox Post Araj Conversation (With bite, non-romanced)]
 
==== Act Three ====
 
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=JejtJ6fUQhtfYt-H&t=6714 Astarion Discussing Cazador before the City Conversation]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=XuaCspXbw3IV_cgo&t=7007 Astarion on Nature of Dream Visitor]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=jr0A3qrv3xYSlh99&t=9087 Vampire Spawn Attack Camp Scene]
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=04RNuAeQtqMKDA_H&t=12672 Graveyard Scene (Spawn route, Act 3 romance scene)] (Romance only)
* [https://youtu.be/9O54rjYXaxM?si=E8Rkr7U4xQO6ZVYq&t=13324 Morning After Defeating Cazador Conversation (Spawn route, romance version)] (Romance only)
* [https://youtu.be/kXIWz65Bde4?si=SOE2yVLzZTRuyiVb Ascended Astarion makes Tav his Spawn (Ascendant route, romance)] (Romance only)
* [https://youtu.be/5IrjtN8T4eQ?si=qg4nbk1HHND2v4gC Morning After Ascended Astarion makes Tav his Spawn (Ascendant route, romance)] (Romance only)
 
=== NPC Interactions ===
Either as an [[Origins|origin]], or in the party as a [[Companions|companion]], Astarion has unique interactions and special dialogue with the following characters, listed by the act they are first encountered in:
 
==== Act One ====
 
* [[Gimblebock]]
 
* [[Gandrel]]
* [[Abdirak]]
* [[Auntie Ethel]]
 
==== Act Two ====
 
* [[Raphael]]
* [[Araj Oblodra]]
* [[Yurgir]]
 
==== Act Three ====


Unbeknownst to Astarion, Cazador had secretly made a deal with the archdevil [[Mephistopheles]] to invoke the Rite of Profane Ascension. Szarr was to siphon the life force of seven thousand souls, Astarion's included, to become a vampire ascendant.
* [[Zethino]]
* [[Nym Orlith]]
* [[Sorn Orlith]]
* [[Ulma]]
* [[Petras]]
* [[Dalyria]]
* [[Leon]]
* [[Aurelia]]
* [[Violet]]
* [[Yousen]]
* [[Sebastian]]
* [[Chessa]]
* [[Cazador]]


Before the vampire lord's plans could come to fruition, Astarion was kidnapped and infected with a special illithid tadpole. And so, Astarion's journey to freedom from his master could begin...
== Loot ==
Astarion can be killed and looted upon meeting, and he will drop the same loot as starting equipment.
 
{{div col}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Camp Supply Sack}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Keychain}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Alchemy Pouch}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Dagger}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Shortbow}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Padded Armor|override_icon=Padded_Armour_(Astarion)_Icon.png|override_rarity=common}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Leather Boots}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Astarion's Eccentric Clothes}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Astarion's Underwear}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Tasteful Boots}}
*
*{{MdRarityItem|Scroll of Revivify}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Potion of Healing}} x2
*{{MdRarityItem|Grease Bottle}} x2
{{div col end}}


==Achievements==
==Achievements==
Line 125: Line 305:


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery heights="200px" mode="packed">
<gallery heights="200">
File:Astarion_Default.webp|Appearance in the character creator.
File:Edward-vanderghote-astarion-portrait.png|Portrait by Edward Vanderghote.
File:Astarion Model.webp|Base model.
File:Astarion Model.webp|Base model.
File:Astarion Model Camp.png|Camp model.
File:Astarion Model Camp.png|Camp model.
File:Astarion Model Underwear.png|Underwear model.
File:Astarion Model Underwear.png|Underwear model.
Astarion Model Ascended.png|Ascended Model.
File:Astarion Model Ascended.png|Ascended Model.
Astarion Model EA.png|Early Access model.
File:Astarion Model EA.png|Early Access model.
File:Astarion Default.webp|Appearance in the character creator.
File:Edward-vanderghote-astarion-portrait.png|Portrait by Edward Vanderghote.
File:Astarion-promotional.webp|Promotional art.
File:Astarion-beta.png|Appearance pre-release.
File:Astarion-beta.png|Appearance pre-release.
File:Astarion-ea.jpg|During ''Early Access''.
File:Astarion-ea.jpg|During ''Early Access''.
File:Astarion-promotional.webp|Promotional art.
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 141: Line 321:
{{notebegin}}
{{notebegin}}
* Can be spoken to with {{SmallIcon|Speak with Dead Icon.png}} [[Speak with Dead]].
* Can be spoken to with {{SmallIcon|Speak with Dead Icon.png}} [[Speak with Dead]].
* The inscription on Astarion's gravestone reads "Astarion Ancunín: 229 - 268 DR 468 DR -", as per the games devnotes.
* The inscription on Astarion's gravestone reads "Astarion Ancunín: 229 - 268 DR 468 DR -", as per the game's devnotes.
* Astarion was 39 years old when Cazador turned him.
* Astarion was 39 years old when Cazador turned him.
*BG3 Senior writer Stephen Rooney is the creator & main writer of Astarion.
*BG3 Senior writer Stephen Rooney is the creator & main writer of Astarion.
Line 149: Line 329:
==External links==
==External links==
*{{FRWiki|Astarion|long}}
*{{FRWiki|Astarion|long}}
* [https://media.dndbeyond.com/compendium-images/claims/bg3/char-sheets/BG3-Astarion-Sheet.pdf Astarion's free D&D Character sheet pdf on D&D Beyond]
* [https://media.dndbeyond.com/compendium-images/claims/bg3/char-sheets/BG3-Astarion-Sheet.pdf Astarion's free D&D Character sheet PDF on D&D Beyond]


{{NavCompanions|state=expanded}}
{{NavCompanions|state=expanded}}
Line 160: Line 340:
[[Category:Rogues]]
[[Category:Rogues]]
[[Category:Available to Speak with Dead]]
[[Category:Available to Speak with Dead]]
[[Category:Characters in Act 1]]
[[Category:Characters in Act One]]
<indicator name="approval">[[/approval|Approval]]</indicator>
<indicator name="approval">[[/approval|Approval]]</indicator>
<indicator name="romance">[[/romance|Romance]]</indicator>
<indicator name="romance">[[/romance|Romance]]</indicator>
<indicator name="banter">[[/banter|Banter]]</indicator>
<indicator name="banter">[[/banter|Banter]]</indicator>

Latest revision as of 23:46, 24 June 2024

Overview Approval Banter Romance

Astarion is an Origin character and a companion in Baldur's Gate 3. He is a High Elf Rogue with the Charlatan background, specialising in Stealth and Sneak Attacks. He is portrayed by Neil Newbon and was created by Stephen Rooney.

“
And to think I was ready to decorate the ground with your innards. Apologies.
 „
— Astarion, apologising after a misunderstanding

Overview[edit | edit source]

Background[edit | edit source]

Astarion prowled the night as a vampire spawn for two centuries in Baldur's Gate, enslaved by a sadistic vampire lord named Cazador Szarr until he was snatched away by the mind flayers on the Nautiloid and tadpoled. Now he can walk in the sunlight, wade through water, enter homes uninvited, and resist his master's compulsions. Astarion now has a chance at a new life where he can make his own choices, and possibly gain the true freedom and safety he so desperately seeks.

Starting Class[edit | edit source]

Astarion starts as a Rogue. Upon reaching level three, he will default to the Arcane Trickster subclass.

Special Features[edit | edit source]

Companion Quest[edit | edit source]

Main article: The Pale Elf

Astarion's companion quest is called The Pale Elf. His story unravels as he explores his newfound freedom and how he can keep it, as well as coming to terms with the abuse inflicted on him, and the harm he has inflicted on others.

Recruitment[edit | edit source]

Recruitable in Act One.

Astarion can be found standing on a road west of the crashed Nautiloid in the Wilderness. When found, a scene will play where he asks for help defeating an Intellect Devourer. Afterwards, he can be asked to join the party.

Approval[edit | edit source]

Main article: Astarion/approval
Astarion Approves

Astarion approves of displays of power and cruelty, and appreciates snarkiness and mocking. He is inspired when the player gains access to areas or information by deceiving others. The player does not have to be "evil" to gain his approval, however — he approves when the player makes choices that support independence and autonomy, are understanding toward his past, and when the player helps certain characters in need.

Astarion disapproves of displays of weakness and does not like acts of kindness or charity that offer no reward. He also disapproves when the player tries to restrict him or deny him his autonomy.

Romance[edit | edit source]

See main article: Astarion/Romance

Astarion can be romanced by characters of any gender. His romance deals heavily with his personal character growth, his relationship with intimacy, his discovery of what he wants in life, and the reclaiming of his autonomy. Astarion's romance also has different outcomes depending on the choices made at the end of his companion quest.

Description[edit | edit source]

Appearance[edit | edit source]

Astarion is a high elf vampire spawn that appears to be in his late 30s despite being multiple centuries old. He is approximately 5'11" tall, physically fit, and has sharp facial features. He has pale, pallid-looking skin with dark circles and bags under his crimson red eyes, as well as smile lines around his mouth and a faint beauty mark on his right cheek. He also has long pointed ears, well-manicured nails, and medium length, white-silver curly hair that is styled with pomade and curls around his ears. He has a bite-mark scar on the left side of his neck from when his old master Cazador Szarr originally bit him to turn him into a vampire, and covering most of his back, Astarion has a myriad of scars that were carved into him by Cazador. When it comes to clothes and shoes, Astarion's choice in attire is usually on the fancier side, choosing often to wear elaborate doublets and leather chaps with embroidered leather shoes. He takes meticulous care to embroider and repair the clothing that he owns, keeping it in good condition as best he can. Astarion is also very mindful of his hygiene and physical appearance overall, especially regarding his hair, nails, skin, and clothing.

Personality[edit | edit source]

Astarion's personality at the start is very much influenced by his own background as an upper middle class high elf magistrate and his time spent as a vampire spawn slave under Cazador Szarr. Astarion is very charming, eloquent, cunning, witty, sarcastic, and practical. But, having been forced to be out for himself and having felt abandoned by the world and its heroes, Astarion is also very bitter, cynical, self-centered, manipulative, distrustful, prejudiced, and vengeful. His top priorities are his own autonomy, his own safety, and his revenge on Cazador. He is largely apathetic toward the feelings of others and has little interest in helping them for no reward, as he feels that if he didn't get help, nobody else should. He also holds prejudices against the Gur people and small races such as gnomes.

Astarion at the beginning is also very fear-motivated and has a low self-worth, despite his confident and arrogant persona. He will attempt to manipulate others with sex to get them on his side so that he has protection from Cazador, as he believes sex is all he is good for and it is one of few ways he knows how to form relationships with other people. He is also willing to do almost anything to gain power or advantage so that he can secure his own safety and avoid being under Cazador's control again, even if it means trampling over others or doing something he finds personally distasteful. Although, he has reservations about sacrificing his bodily autonomy even if it means he can gain an advantageous power.

However, as the story progresses, Astarion can develop and change his personality depending on how he is guided during his questline, just like other companions. If Astarion is guided down a good path where his fears, beliefs, and unhealthy behaviors, are not wholly validated, he will grow into his best self by beginning to deconstruct his cynical worldview, learning to truly value and stand up for himself, showing empathy and care toward others, reconciling with those he has hurt in the past, developing a healthy relationship with sex and romance, forming genuine bonds with other people that he trusts, breaking the cycle of abuse, and healing from his trauma. But, if Astarion is led down a bad path where his behaviors, fears, and beliefs are validated and encouraged, he will instead become the very worst version of himself, a fearful, power-hungry, and abusive man who has repressed his trauma and continued the abuse cycle.

Gameplay[edit | edit source]

Astarion's default class is rogue. He can cast the Fire Bolt cantrip as a high elf, and as a vampire spawn he has access to a unique Vampire Bite, however this action does not appear until after the party finds out about his vampirism.

Proficiencies[edit | edit source]

Equipment proficiencies

Save proficiencies

Skill proficiencies

Unlockable bonuses[edit | edit source]

The following bonuses and actions are unlockable through certain decisions in Astarion's companion quest:

History[edit | edit source]

Pre-Vampirism[edit | edit source]

Astarion was a young magistrate in Baldur's Gate, until one day he was assaulted and almost killed by a gang of Gur because of a ruling he had handed down. The vampire lord, Cazador Szarr, who had taken interest in him, approached Astarion while he was dying and turned him into one of his slaves – a vampire spawn.

Life as Cazador's Spawn[edit | edit source]

After being turned, Astarion and his vampire spawn "siblings" lived at the Szarr Palace in the Upper City. And being vampire spawn, Astarion and his "siblings" were completely subservient to Cazador, bound to him through the bond of creator and creation. Cazador could use this power to completely control Astarion and the others, and he imposed three main commands onto his spawn. 1. "Thou must not drink from thinking creatures, 2. "Thou must never leave my side, unless commanded," and 3. "Thou must obey me in all things." Astarion and the other spawn could not physically refuse these commands. Cazador would then use this power and these "rules" to physically and emotionally abuse and torture Astarion for centuries, and any form of attempted resistance or escape was met with harsh punishment. For example, Astarion was once sealed away in a coffin, starving, for over a year because he had tried to disobey one of Cazador's commands. Also, the abuse inflicted onto Astarion and the other spawn was brutal and frequent. They were physically tortured and had "poetry" carved into their backs by Cazador, they were frequently emotionally abused as Cazador would play mind games on them, they would be fed dead rats and bugs, they would be commanded to physically torture themselves and the other spawn, they would be starved for long periods of time, and also be forced to venture out into the Lower City to seduce people and engage in sexual activity with them so that they could lure them back to Szarr Palace to later be fed on by Cazador.

However, while out in a city tavern seducing a young noble to bring back to Cazador, Astarion was abducted by the rogue Nautiloid and was tadpoled alongside other victims.

Story Involvement[edit | edit source]

The Pale Elf[edit | edit source]

See main article: The Pale Elf
The Pale Elf is Astarion's personal quest. It is added to the journal upon recruiting him, and it spans all three acts of the game.

Act One[edit | edit source]

Act Two[edit | edit source]

Act Three[edit | edit source]

Endings[edit | edit source]

Quest Rewards[edit | edit source]

If Cazador is defeated:

If Cazador is defeated and Astarion does not complete the Rite of Profane Ascension:

If Cazador is defeated and Astarion completes the Rite of Profane Ascension:

Interactions & Scenes[edit | edit source]

In-Party Interactions & Scenes[edit | edit source]

As a companion while out traveling, Astarion has unique dialogue interactions available during and after certain events. Whenever one is available, he will have a floating [ ! ] icon above him.

Act One[edit | edit source]

Act Two[edit | edit source]

Act Three[edit | edit source]

Camp Interactions & Scenes[edit | edit source]

As a companion, Astarion has unique dialogue interactions and cutscenes available at camp. Whenever one is available, he will have a floating [ ! ] icon above him.

Act One[edit | edit source]

Act Two[edit | edit source]

Act Three[edit | edit source]

NPC Interactions[edit | edit source]

Either as an origin, or in the party as a companion, Astarion has unique interactions and special dialogue with the following characters, listed by the act they are first encountered in:

Act One[edit | edit source]

Act Two[edit | edit source]

Act Three[edit | edit source]

Loot[edit | edit source]

Astarion can be killed and looted upon meeting, and he will drop the same loot as starting equipment.

Achievements[edit | edit source]

A-Just a Nibble.jpg

Just a Nibble
Let Astarion bite you - ouch.


Gallery[edit | edit source]

  • Base model.

    Base model.

  • Camp model.

    Camp model.

  • Underwear model.

    Underwear model.

  • Ascended Model.

    Ascended Model.

  • Early Access model.

    Early Access model.

  • Appearance in the character creator.

    Appearance in the character creator.

  • Portrait by Edward Vanderghote.

    Portrait by Edward Vanderghote.

  • Promotional art.

    Promotional art.

  • Appearance pre-release.

    Appearance pre-release.

  • During Early Access.

    During Early Access.

Notes[edit | edit source]

  • Can be spoken to with Speak with Dead.
  • The inscription on Astarion's gravestone reads "Astarion Ancunín: 229 - 268 DR 468 DR -", as per the game's devnotes.
  • Astarion was 39 years old when Cazador turned him.
  • BG3 Senior writer Stephen Rooney is the creator & main writer of Astarion.
  • Astarion's background changed throughout Early Access and the released physical character sheets: originally, his background was listed as "Noble", then it was listed as "Trickster Hedonist" in the Character Creation screen during the Release Showcase Panel, and then "Courtesan" on the physical character sheet, with "Charlatan" accompanying the game's official release.

External links[edit | edit source]


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