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| image = Minthara-face2023.jpg
| image = Minthara-face2023.jpg
}}
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{{CompanionTab|Minthara}}
{{Companion tab}}
{{Infobox creature
{{Infobox creature
| name = Minthara
| name = Nightwarden Minthara
| full_name = Minthara Baenre
| full name = Minthara Baenre
| identity = Female
| title = True Soul of the Absolute
| image = Minthara-face2023.jpg
| image = Minthara-face2023.jpg
| imagesize = 0.9
| image_alt_text = Appearance of Minthara in Baldur's Gate 3.
| voice =
| role = [[Companion]]
| role = [[Companion]]
| race = [[Lolth-sworn drow]]
| size = Medium
| class = [[Paladin]], [[Oath of Vengeance]]
| race = [[Drow]]
| subrace = [[Lolth-Sworn Drow]]
| type = [[Humanoid]]
| class = [[Paladin]]
| subclass = [[Oath of Vengeance]]
| subclass = [[Oath of Vengeance]]
| va = Emma Gregory
| family = Baenre Family of Menzoberranzan
| background = [[Noble]]
| background = [[Noble]]
| hometown = [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Menzoberranzan Menzoberranzan] in [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Northdark Northdark]
| hometown = {{FRWiki|Menzoberranzan}} in {{FRWiki|Northdark}}
|initiative=+2|full name=Minthara Baenre|va=[https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0339802 Emma Gregory]|family=Baenre Family of Menzoberranzan|title=Drow Exile<br>True Soul of the Absolute|size=Medium|type=Humanoid|weight kg=75|movement m=9|conditions=Aura of Protection, Soul Branding|passives=Fey Ancestry, Superior Darkvision, Opportunity Attack, Drow Weapon Training, Favourable Beginnings, Charm|level=1|str=16|dex=15|con=14|int=10|wis=12|cha=17|prof bonus=+2|wis save prof=yes|cha save prof=yes|ac=16|actions=Psionic Backlash}}
| level = 1
'''Minthara Baenre''' is a recruitable [[companion]] with the [[Noble]] background. She is a [[Lolth-sworn drow]] and an [[Oath of Vengeance]] [[Paladin]] first appearing during [[Act 1]].
| ac = 11
| hp = 11
| movement m = 9
| weight kg = 75
| str = 17
| dex = 12
| con = 13
| int = 8
| wis = 10
| cha = 15
| wis save prof = yes
| cha save prof = yes
| passives = Charm, Drow Weapon Training, Favourable Beginnings, Fey Ancestry, Opportunity Attack, Psionic Backlash, Superior Darkvision
| athletics = 4
| acrobatics = 2
| perception = 1
}}
Nightwarden '''Minthara{{ref|In traditional Drow names, the prefix "Min-" means "lesser", "minor", or "second", while the suffix "-thara" means "glyph", "marker", or "rune". Owen K.C. Stephens, "By Any Other Name: The Drow", ''Dragon'' 267 (January 2000): 28-31}} Baenre''' is a recruitable [[Companion]] with the [[Noble]] background. She is a [[Lolth-Sworn Drow]]{{ref|If the player character is a [[Lolth-sworn drow]], many unique dialogue options are available, one of which includes condemning Minthara and attacking her for abandoning Lolth.}} and an [[Oath of Vengeance]] [[Paladin]] first appearing during [[Act One]].


Ruthless in service of the [[Absolute]], she commands a camp of [[Goblin|goblins]] planning an attack on the [[Druid Grove]] in the name of their god. Initially hostile, she can be encountered during [[Act 2]] and saved from execution, and can potentially join the party as well as be romanced by characters of any gender.
Ruthless in service of the [[Absolute's Talisman|Absolute]], she commands a camp of [[Goblin|Goblins]] planning an attack on the [[Druid Grove]] in the name of their god. Initially hostile unless the player character both sides with and sleeps with her in Act One, she can be re-encountered during [[Act Two]] and saved from execution, at which point she can be recruited into the party as well as romanced by characters of any gender.


{{NoExcerpt|{{Q|Bhaal, Lolth... the Absolute. They do not have followers - they only have victims, and they reward devotion with death.|Minthara on gods.|align=center}}}}
{{DiQ|[[Bhaal]], [[Lolth]]... the [[Absolute]]. They do not have followers - they only have victims, and they reward devotion with death.|Minthara| on gods}}
{{TOC|limit=3}}
{{TOC|limit=3}}


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{{hatnote|For a full overview of Minthara's starting features, see the articles [[Paladin]], [[Oath of Vengeance]], and [[Drow#Lolth-sworn_drow|Lolth-sworn drow]].}}
{{hatnote|For a full overview of Minthara's starting features, see the articles [[Paladin]], [[Oath of Vengeance]], and [[Drow#Lolth-sworn_drow|Lolth-sworn drow]].}}
=== Background ===
=== Background ===
A member of the ancient [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/House_Baenre House Baenre], Minthara is a [[True Soul]] in the service of the Absolute and one of the three leaders of the [[Goblin Camp]] in the [[Wilderness]]. She and her fellow True Souls, [[Gut|Priestess Gut]] and [[Dror Ragzlin]], set up a base of operations in an old Selûnite temple in search of a [[Mysterious Artefact]] by order of the Absolute. Will her cruel efforts be rewarded by the one she so reveres, or will she be cast aside as a broken tool in the Absolute's path of conquest?
A member of the ancient [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/House_Baenre House Baenre], Minthara is a [[True Soul]] in the service of the Absolute and one of the three leaders of the [[Goblin Camp]] in the [[Wilderness]]. She and her fellow True Souls, {{CharLink|Gut|Priestess Gut}} and {{CharLink|Dror Ragzlin}}, set up a base of operations in an old Selûnite temple in search of a [[Mysterious Artefact]] by order of the Absolute.


=== Starting class ===
=== Starting class ===
Minthara starts as a Paladin, with a focus on dual-wielding one-handed weapons. Her subclass is Oath of Vengeance, giving her a more offence-oriented toolkit, with more ways of controlling and debuffing foes in battle.
Before she is recruited, Minthara is a level 6 Paladin with the following [[Ability Scores]]: STR = 16, DEX = 15, CON = 14, INT = 10, WIS = 12, CH = 17.
If she is recruited, then Minthara changes to a level 1 [[Paladin]] with the standard ability scores for that [[Class]], with a focus on dual-wielding one-handed weapons. Her [[Subclass]] is Oath of Vengeance, giving her a more offence-oriented toolkit, with more ways of controlling and debuffing foes in battle.


=== Special features ===
=== Special features ===
* Minthara has the passive {{SAI|Soul Branding}}, allowing her to grant herself or an ally an additional 5 m / 17 ft of movement and {{DamageText|2d4 + 1|Fire}} damage on their next attack
Minthara has the passive {{SAI|Soul Branding}}, allowing her to grant herself or an ally an additional 5 m / 17 ft of movement and {{DamageText|2d4 + 1|Fire}} damage on their next attack. She also bears the [[Brand of the Absolute]] and can fully benefit from items with this effect. Furthermore, she will already have access to the following [[illithid powers]]:
* Furthermore, she will already have access to the following [[illithid powers]]:
*{{SAI|Charm}}  
**{{SAI|Favourable Beginnings}}  
*{{SAI|Concentrated Blast}}  
**{{SAI|Charm}}  
*{{SAI|Favourable Beginnings}}  
**{{SAI|Concentrated Blast}}  
*{{SAI|Psionic Backlash}}
**{{SAI|Psionic Backlash}}


=== Personal quest ===
=== Personal quest ===
Minthara does not have a personal quest like other companions. However, she is directly involved in two important quests.
Minthara does not have a personal quest like other companions. However, she is directly involved in two important quests.


As part of the main-quest [[Save the Refugees]], the party can decide which side to support in the conflict between the goblins and the druids of the grove. If siding with the druids and refugees, Minthara will be hostile and become an objective of [[Defeat the Goblins]]. If sided with the forces of the Absolute, she will appear as an ally as part of [[Raid the Grove]].
As part of the main-quest {{Quest|Save the Refugees}}, the party can decide which side to support in the conflict between the goblins and the druids of the grove. If siding with the druids and refugees, Minthara will be hostile and become an objective of {{Quest|Defeat the Goblins}}. If sided with the forces of the Absolute, she will appear as an ally as part of {{Quest|Raid the Grove}}. If the grove has been sealed, on the day of the raid she will instruct her raiders to kill the party.
 
In {{Quest|Decide Minthara's Fate}}, the party can decide what will happen with Minthara after her trial at the hands of {{CharLink|Ketheric Thorm}} and {{CharLink|Z'rell|Disciple Z'rell}} at [[Moonrise Towers]].


In [[Decide Minthara's Fate]], the party can decide what will happen with Minthara after her trial at the hands of [[Ketheric Thorm]] and [[Z'rell|Disciple Z'rell]] at [[Moonrise Towers]].
After recruiting Minthara has a personal interest destroying the Cult of the Absolute and especially in killing {{CharLink|Orin|Orin the Red}} and therefore completing {{Quest|Get Orin's Netherstone}} because of vengeance. Orin killed Minthara's Drow companions, and tortured and enslaved her to the Cult of the Absolute through implanting a tadpole in Minthara's brain. The Cult of the Absolute forced Minthara to commit massacres on the enemies of the cult.


=== Recruitment ===
=== Recruitment ===
Although Minthara can be encountered in [[Act 1]], she cannot join the player's party as a permanent companion before reaching [[Moonrise Towers]] in [[Act Two]].{{note|Recruiting Minthara during Act 2 and then returning to Act 1 areas will make Minthara leave the party. Whether intended or a bug, this can be circumvented by casting [[Silence]] on her before traveling to an Act 1 area.}}
Although Minthara can be encountered in [[Act One]], she cannot join the player's party as a permanent companion before reaching [[Moonrise Towers]] in [[Act Two]].{{ref|Recruiting Minthara during Act 2 and then returning to Act 1 areas will make Minthara leave the party. Whether intended or a bug, this can be circumvented by casting {{SAI|Silence}} on her before traveling to an Act 1 area.}}{{ref|Minthara has exploration lines for [[Rosymorn Monastery]] as well as for the destruction sequence of the weapon on the rooftop. It's possible that during development she was intended to be a companion earlier than she ended up being for release. She also has an exploration line at the Nautiloid as well.}}


==== Act Two ====
==== Act Two ====
* If left alive after the events of Act 1, Minthara will be found at Moonrise Towers facing trial by Ketheric Thorm for failing to find the [[Mysterious Artefact]]. Sentenced to death, she is taken to [[Moonrise Towers Prison]] to be tortured until her execution. The party can find her and help her escape, and if invited to camp, she will offer to join them.
* If left alive after the events of Act 1, Minthara will be found at Moonrise Towers facing trial by Ketheric Thorm for failing to find the {{SmRarityItem|Mysterious Artefact}}. Sentenced to death, she is taken to [[Moonrise Towers Prison]] to be tortured until her execution. The party can find her and help her escape, and if invited to camp, she will offer to join them.
** Should the party side with Minthara during [[Save the Refugees]] and raid the grove with her, no additional steps are needed to ensure that she appears at Moonrise Towers.
** Should the party side with Minthara during {{Quest|Save the Refugees}} and raid the grove with her, no additional steps are needed to ensure that she appears at Moonrise Towers.
** If the party sides with the druids instead, but still wishes to meet Minthara at the Moonrise Towers, she must be [[Knocked_Out_(Condition)|knocked out]] when fought. This can occur whether at her camp in the Shattered Sanctum or when defending the grove from the goblin attack. If Minthara is knocked out in the goblin camp the party must not take a [[long rest]] before the quest [[Defeat the Goblins]] is finished.{{note|Minthara went through some recruitment changes during development and after release.<br>Intended to be recruited only if the grove was destroyed, prior to Patch 5, an exploit could be used to recruit Minthara when siding with the grove. Minthara had to be knocked out temporarily in Act 1, recovering after a long rest. Once the party reached Act 2 and acquired the spells [[Polymorph]] and [[Dominate Beast]], they had to return to [[Shattered Sanctum]], turn her into a sheep and dominate her. The party then had to fast-travel back to the Moonrise Towers and then had to move Minthara as a sheep into the throne room, where the judgement continued as if Minthara was alive. After the cutscene she would be transported to the dungeon. The party had to attack her quickly once imprisoned as she would begin to run away otherwise, and then turn invisible and exit combat. Minthara was then part of the interrogation scene and her recruitment could proceed as normal.<br>When Patch 5 was introduced, Minthara could be recruited if she was knocked out ''temporarily'' at her camp in the Shattered Sanctum, dealing with the rest of the goblin camp without long rests in-between as the game files checked for both conditions in order to trigger her scene at Moonrise Towers. <br>Patch 6 removed the requirement for Minthara being ''temporarily'' hostile / knocked out. the game no longer checks for that condition. It's also possible now to recruit Minthara through knocking her out when defending the grove from the goblin attack as stated above in the recruitment section.}}{{cite web
** If the party sides with the druids instead, but still wishes to meet Minthara at the Moonrise Towers, she must be [[Knocked_Out_(Condition)|knocked out]] when fought. This can occur whether at her camp in the Shattered Sanctum or when defending the grove from the goblin attack.{{ref|[https://baldursgate3.game/news/patch-7-now-live_121 Patch 7 notes] ''"Knocked Out Minthara will now always flee to Moonrise Towers."''}}{{ref|It has been observed that, as long as she is knocked out in the in the [[Shattered Sanctum]], it's possible to complete {{Quest|Defeat the Goblins}} after several long rests without compromising her recruitment later in [[Act Two]].}}{{note|Minthara went through some recruitment changes during development and after release.
|work = Larian Studios Forums
<br>
|author = Crimsomrider
Intended to be recruited only if the grove was destroyed, prior to Patch 5, an exploit could be used to recruit Minthara when siding with the grove. Minthara had to be knocked out temporarily in Act 1, recovering after a long rest. Once the party reached Act 2 and acquired the spells {{SAI|Polymorph}} and {{SAI|Dominate Beast}}, they had to return to [[Shattered Sanctum]], turn her into a sheep and dominate her. The party then had to fast-travel back to the Moonrise Towers and then had to move Minthara as a sheep into the throne room, where the judgement continued as if Minthara was alive. After the cutscene she would be transported to the dungeon. The party had to attack her quickly once imprisoned as she would begin to run away otherwise, and then turn invisible and exit combat. Minthara was then part of the interrogation scene and her recruitment could proceed as normal.
|date = 2023-11-30
<br>
|url = https://forums.larian.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=925862
When Patch 5 was introduced, Minthara could be recruited if she was knocked out ''temporarily'' at her camp in the Shattered Sanctum, dealing with the rest of the goblin camp without long rests in-between as the game files checked for both conditions in order to trigger her scene at Moonrise Towers.{{ref|[https://baldursgate3.game/news/patch-5-now-live_99 Patch 5 notes] ''"Minthara will still appear at Moonrise Towers if she was knocked out in Act I."''}}{{ref|''PSA - Recruiting Minthara In A Good Playthrough'' by Crimsomrider at Larian Studios forums on 2023-11-30. <nowiki>https://forums.larian.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=925862</nowiki> [Retrieved 2024-01-04.]}}
|title = PSA - Recruiting Minthara In A Good Playthrough
<br>
|publisher =
Patch 6 removed the requirement for Minthara being ''temporarily'' hostile / knocked out. The game no longer checks for that condition. It became possible to recruit Minthara through knocking her out when defending the grove from the goblin attack.{{ref|[https://baldursgate3.game/news/patch-6-now-live_108 Patch 6 notes] ''"Increased the number of valid methods of knocking Minthara out to recruit her."''}} However, if Minthara was knocked out in the goblin camp, the quest {{Quest|Defeat the Goblins}} had to be finished prior to taking a [[Long Rest]].
|accessdate = 2024-01-04
<br>
|archiveurl =
Since Patch 7 all methods of knocking her out result in a recruitment opportunity.}}
|archivedate =
}}
{{note|It has been observed that, as long as she is knocked out in the in the [[Shattered Sanctum]], it's possible to complete [[Defeat the Goblins]] after several long rests without compromising her recruitment later in [[Act Two]].{{verify}}}}


=== Approval ===
=== Approval ===
Line 85: Line 105:


=== Personality ===
=== Personality ===
As a drow and follower of the Absolute, Minthara has a highly hostile and cruel attitude towards other beings, considering almost everyone as inferior. She has a special disdain for those who do not share her beliefs, and holds other of her race in high regard. Her upbringing as a noble in [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Menzoberranzan Menzoberranzan] further compounds her superiority complex. Aligned with the Absolute, she's willing to do whatever it takes to serve it.
As a drow and follower of the Absolute, Minthara has a highly hostile and cruel attitude towards other beings, considering almost everyone as inferior. She has a special disdain for those who do not share her beliefs, and holds other [[Drow]] in high regard. Her upbringing as a noble in {{FRWiki|Menzoberranzan}} further compounds her superiority complex. Aligned with the Absolute, she's willing to do whatever it takes to serve it.


Power hungry, she is always looking for ways to increase her standing among her peers, product of her drow upbringing. Having been a follower of Lolth once, she also knows that violence, deception, and cruelty are great tools to obtain what she wants.
Power hungry, she is always looking for ways to increase her standing among her peers, product of her drow upbringing. Having been a follower of Lolth once, she also knows that violence, deception, and cruelty are great tools to obtain what she wants.


Despite her overt dislike for others, she is an observant person, always studying those that surround her. Minthara often understands the plights of her companions, even if she doesn't necessarily care for them, and she's always willing to give them a solution in her own way. Though her methods may sometimes be extreme, they always have a sound reasoning. Still, she doesn't support mindless cruelty if it serves no purpose, and even shows a weak spot for [[Scratch]]. If romanced, she also shows that she harbours doubts about her life and circumstances.
Despite her overt dislike for others, she is an observant person, always studying those that surround her. Minthara often understands the plights of her companions, even if she doesn't necessarily care for them, and she's always willing to give them a solution in her own way. Though her methods may sometimes be extreme, they always have a sound reasoning. Still, she doesn't support mindless cruelty if it serves no purpose, and even shows a weak spot for {{CharLink|Scratch}}. If romanced, she also shows that she harbours doubts about her life and circumstances.


Whether due to her looks or attitude, Minthara reveals she's had quite a few lovers in the past{{ref|Various locations, party banter between Minthara and Karlach.}} and even has a few suitors amongst the goblins, unbeknownst to her.{{cite text|Parchment (Goblin Camp)|Unknown}}{{cite text|Unfinished Love Letter|[[Klagga]]}}
Whether due to her looks or attitude, Minthara reveals she's had quite a few lovers in the past{{ref|Various locations, party banter between Minthara and Karlach.}} and even has a few suitors amongst the goblins, unbeknownst to her.{{ref|{{SmRarityItem|Parchment (Goblin Camp)}}}}{{ref|{{SmRarityItem|Unfinished Love Letter}} by {{CharLink|Klagga}}}}


If recruited and freed from the Absolute's influence, Minthara's cruelty will be more tempered, and her fury will be aimed solely at the other leaders of the Cult - particularly [[Orin]]. She also becomes contemplative of her actions under the Absolute's influence, and rues letting them exploit her fears and yearning for belonging to use her as a tool.
If recruited and freed from the Absolute's influence, Minthara's cruelty will be more tempered, and her fury will be aimed solely at the other leaders of the Cult - particularly {{CharLink|Orin|Orin the Red}}. She also becomes contemplative of her actions under the Absolute's influence, and rues letting them exploit her fears and yearning for belonging to use her as a tool.


== History ==
== History ==
=== Menzoberranzan ===
=== Menzoberranzan ===
Born into the ancient [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/House_Baenre House Baenre] of Menzoberranzan, Minthara was raised as a noble of the city in Qu'ellarz'orl, a plateau above the city expanse.{{ref|name=drownoble|[[Campsite]], line spoken by Minthara to a drow noble player character.<br>''"Like you, I lived in Qu'ellarz'orl, high above the city's sprawl."''}} Taught in the ways of [[Lolth]], she eventually rose to be an important house matron, enjoying all the luxuries of her birthright. She survived her first assassination attempt when she was a child, and another at the hands of her mother when she came of age.{{ref|name=mother|Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when inquired about her upbringing in Menzoberranzan.<br>''"(...) I survived my first assassination attempt while I still suckled at my mother's breast. (...) When I came of age, she tried to take my life herself, and I gave her fresh scars to match those she earned protecting me."''}}
Born into the ancient {{FRWiki|House Baenre}} of Menzoberranzan, Minthara was raised as a noble of the city in Qu'ellarz'orl, a plateau above the city expanse.{{ref|name=drownoble|[[Campsite]], line spoken by Minthara to a drow noble player character.<br>''"Like you, I lived in Qu'ellarz'orl, high above the city's sprawl."''}} Taught in the ways of [[Lolth]], she eventually rose to be an important house matron, enjoying all the luxuries of her birthright. She survived her first assassination attempt when she was a child, and another at the hands of her mother when she came of age.{{ref|name=mother|Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when inquired about her upbringing in Menzoberranzan.<br>''"(...) I survived my first assassination attempt while I still suckled at my mother's breast. (...) When I came of age, she tried to take my life herself, and I gave her fresh scars to match those she earned protecting me."''}}


Sometime during her life there, she encountered a [[True Soul]] and two novices preaching the message of the [[Absolute]]. Minthara had them hanged and displayed as a warning against heresy,{{ref|Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when asked how she came to be indoctrinated.<br>''"A True Soul came to my city preaching a message of togetherness, accompanied by two novices. Menzoberranzan is not fertile grounds for such messages. I killed them, and hanged their bodies in my garden."''}} but curiosity got the best of her, and after using necromancy on the corpses to find their base of operations, she prepared a retinue of warriors to strike at the [[Moonrise Towers]].
Sometime during her life there, she encountered a [[True Soul]] and two novices preaching the message of the [[Absolute]]. Minthara had them hanged and displayed as a warning against heresy,{{ref|Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when asked how she came to be indoctrinated.<br>''"A True Soul came to my city preaching a message of togetherness, accompanied by two novices. Menzoberranzan is not fertile grounds for such messages. I killed them, and hanged their bodies in my garden."''}} but curiosity got the best of her, and after using necromancy on the corpses to find their base of operations, she prepared a retinue of warriors to strike at the [[Moonrise Towers]].


=== Indoctrination and time in the Cult ===
=== Indoctrination and time in the Cult ===
Minthara gathered her allies to battle the absolutists, yet, when they arrived at the Moonrise Towers, they were met with a lavish feast and a welcome fit for a house matron. [[Ketheric Thorm]] had been expecting her, and invited her to partake of his feast alongside [[Orin|Orin the Red]]. He explained he wished to form an alliance between Moonrise and Menzoberranzan, flattering Minthara and playing to her pride.{{ref|Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when asked how she came to be indoctrinated.<br>''"I expected a battle, but found a fully-laden feast table, and a welcome befitting a house matron. (...) Ketheric proposed an alliance between Moonrise and Menzoberranzzan. I admit, I was captivated by him."''}} Lowering her guard, Minthara was unable to react in time as Orin jumped on the table and sliced her men's throats as she approached her. Standing before her, Orin expressed her interest in Minthara, and Ketheric approved of it, ordering her to be taken to the [[Mind Flayer Colony]].{{ref|name=orin|Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when asked how she came to be indoctrinated.<br>''"Then, quick as lightning, she climbed onto the table, a dagger in each hand, and skipped toward me, slicing the throats out of my men as she passed them. (...) ''I want this one'', she said. Ketheric nodded his permission, and I was taken below."''}} There, Minthara was held for some time, helplessly watching as her men were processed for food or to be turned into thralls. Eventually, Orin returned and placed the tadpole in Minthara's eye, sealing the drow's fate as part of the [[Cult of the Absolute]].{{ref|name=tadpole|[[Moonrise Towers]], lines spoken by Minthara in the throne room after slaying Ketheric Thorm.<br>''"There was no god. Orin held me down in a cocoon of flesh, while a mind flayer forced a parasite into my brain. And she laughed at my fear."''}}
Minthara gathered her allies to battle the absolutists, yet, when they arrived at the Moonrise Towers, they were met with a lavish feast and a welcome fit for a house matron. {{CharLink|Ketheric Thorm}} had been expecting her, and invited her to partake of his feast alongside {{CharLink|Orin|Orin the Red}}. He explained he wished to form an alliance between Moonrise and Menzoberranzan, flattering Minthara and playing to her pride.{{ref|Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when asked how she came to be indoctrinated.<br>''"I expected a battle, but found a fully-laden feast table, and a welcome befitting a house matron. (...) Ketheric proposed an alliance between Moonrise and Menzoberranzzan. I admit, I was captivated by him."''}} Lowering her guard, Minthara was unable to react in time as Orin jumped on the table and sliced her men's throats as she approached her. Standing before her, Orin expressed her interest in Minthara, and Ketheric approved of it, ordering her to be taken to the [[Mind Flayer Colony]].{{ref|name=orin|Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when asked how she came to be indoctrinated.<br>''"Then, quick as lightning, she climbed onto the table, a dagger in each hand, and skipped toward me, slicing the throats out of my men as she passed them. (...) ''I want this one'', she said. Ketheric nodded his permission, and I was taken below."''}} There, Minthara was held for some time, helplessly watching as her men were processed for food or to be turned into thralls. Eventually, Orin returned and placed the tadpole in Minthara's eye, sealing the drow's fate as part of the [[Cult of the Absolute]].{{ref|name=tadpole|[[Moonrise Towers]], lines spoken by Minthara in the throne room after slaying Ketheric Thorm.<br>''"There was no god. Orin held me down in a cocoon of flesh, while a mind flayer forced a parasite into my brain. And she laughed at my fear."''}}


Under orders of her new god, Minthara participated in many massacres carried out by the cult, mostly against religious communities who refused to be converted. She became a zealot, and in time, even began to admire Orin. Orin would manipulate her further, telling her lies of how she was a True Soul, chosen by the Absolute as her greatest weapon.{{ref|name=orin2|Moonrise Towers, lines spoken by Minthara in the throne room after slaying Ketheric Thorm.<br>''"When I first visited Moonrise, I stood before the Absolute in awe. It was more of an idea than an entity. Pure love, total power. Orin was by my side. She told me that god had chosen me to be a True Soul. Blessed and adored."''}} For Minthara, the Absolute was more than just a god, it was everything she ever truly wanted.{{ref|name=orin2}} With a new purpose, Minthara heads to the [[Wilderness]] in search of a powerful weapon her new goddess desires, hungry to prove herself.
Under orders of her new god, Minthara participated in many massacres carried out by the cult, mostly against religious communities who refused to be converted. She became a zealot, and in time, even began to admire Orin. Orin would manipulate her further, telling her lies of how she was a True Soul, chosen by the Absolute as her greatest weapon.{{ref|name=orin2|Moonrise Towers, lines spoken by Minthara in the throne room after slaying Ketheric Thorm.<br>''"When I first visited Moonrise, I stood before the Absolute in awe. It was more of an idea than an entity. Pure love, total power. Orin was by my side. She told me that god had chosen me to be a True Soul. Blessed and adored."''}} For Minthara, the Absolute was more than just a god, it was everything she ever truly wanted.{{ref|name=orin2}} With a new purpose, Minthara heads to the [[Wilderness]] in search of a powerful weapon her new goddess desires, hungry to prove herself.


== Involvement ==
== Involvement ==
=== Save the Refugees ===
=== Act One ===
Minthara is first encountered at the [[Shattered Sanctum]] within the [[Goblin Camp]], planning an attack on [[Emerald Grove]] at the behest of the [[Absolute]]. When spoken to, she will quickly identify the party as fellow [[True Soul|True Souls]] and reveal that she believes the druids are hiding a powerful weapon at their grove that the Absolute desires. She has been surveying the land in search of the weapon, sending scouts to track the leader of the grove, Halsin.{{ref|{{SmRarityItem|Drow's Letter}} by Minthara}} Minthara will probe the party's minds with her tadpole, possibly leading to the grove's location being exposed.
 
==== Save the Refugees ====
[[File:Minthara.png|right|125px]]
[[File:Minthara.png|right|125px]]
{{Hatnote|See main article: [[Save the Refugees]]}}
{{Main|Save the Refugees|Defeat the Goblins}}
Though Minthara does not have a personal quest, she is deeply involved in ''Save the Refugees''.
Though Minthara does not have a personal quest, she is deeply involved in {{Quest|Save the Refugees}} as well. The party can fight Minthara as part of the quest {{Quest|Defeat the Goblins}}, turning her and the rest of the goblins around her hostile. Fighting her will turn the rest of the camp hostile. With one of the three goblin leaders dead, {{CharLink|Dror Ragzlin}} and {{CharLink|Gut|Priestess Gut}} would be next.


==== Act One ====
==== Raiding the Grove ====
Minthara is first encountered at the [[Shattered Sanctum]] within the [[Goblin Camp]], planning an attack on [[Emerald Grove]] at the behest of the [[Absolute]]. When spoken to, she will quickly identify the party as fellow [[True Soul|True Souls]] and reveal that she believes the druids are hiding a powerful weapon at their grove that the Absolute desires. She has been surveying the land in search of the weapon, sending scouts to track the leader of the grove, Halsin.{{cite text|Drow's Letter|Minthara}} Minthara will probe the party's minds with her tadpole, possibly leading to the grove's location being exposed.
{{Main|Raid the Emerald Grove}}
Alternatively, the party can entertain the possibility of raiding the grove with the absolutists. This will add the quest {{Quest|Raid the Emerald Grove}} to the journal. If they choose to ally with the forces of the Absolute and disclose the grove's location, the raid of the grove will begin after the next [[Long Rest]]. Carrying on with the raid will cause {{CharLink|Karlach}} and {{CharLink|Wyll}} to permanently leave the player's party. After the grove has been destroyed, Minthara and the goblins will join the party at their camp and celebrate their slaughter of the druids, even if they ultimately failed to find the weapon the Absolute desired. Minthara will also offer to have a casual encounter with the player character. Rejecting her will anger her, but will have no negative consequences.


The party can fight Minthara as part of the quest [[Defeat the Goblins]], turning her and the rest of the goblins around her hostile. Fighting her will turn the rest of the camp hostile, leaving siding with the goblins to raid the grove off the table. With one of the three goblin leaders dead, [[Dror Ragzlin]] and [[Gut|Priestess Gut]] would be next.
After the celebrations, Minthara will urge the party to join the forces of the Absolute at the [[Moonrise Towers]] in the [[Shadow-Cursed Lands]]. She will give the party her {{SmRarityItem|Spider's Lyre}} to summon a guide that will help them through the deadly shadows, and will depart shortly after.


Alternatively, the party can entertain the possibility of raiding the grove with the absolutists. This will add the quest [[Raid the Emerald Grove]] to the journal. If they choose to ally with the forces of the Absolute and disclose the grove's location, the raid of the grove will begin after the next [[long rest]]. Carrying on with the raid will cause [[Karlach]] and [[Wyll]] to permanently leave the player's party. After the grove has been destroyed, Minthara and the goblins will join the party at their camp and celebrate their slaughter of the druids, even if they ultimately failed to find the weapon the Absolute desired. Minthara will also offer to have a casual encounter with the player character. Rejecting her will anger her, but will have no negative consequences.
==== Double-Crossing Minthara ====
Alternatively after initialising the raid on the grove through talking with Minthara, it is possible to double-cross her. First Halsin must be freed in the Worg Pens but left there. Then, after agreeing with Minthara to seize the grove, the party must talk to Halsin in the Worg Pens and then immediately travel to the [[Emerald Grove]]. All this must be done without any long rest.  


After the celebrations, Minthara will urge the party to join the forces of the Absolute at the [[Moonrise Towers]] in the [[Shadow-Cursed Lands]]. She will give the party her [[Spider's Lyre]] to summon a guide that will help them through the deadly shadows, and will depart shortly after.
At the Emerald Grove the party must side with the Tiefling defenders. If the goblin forces are defeated and Minthara is killed or knocked out, then the quests {{Quest|Rescue the Druid Halsin}} and {{Quest|Defeat the Goblins}} will be completed without killing Dror Ragzlin and Gut.


=== Decide Minthara's Fate ===
=== Act Two ===
{{Hatnote|See main article: [[Decide Minthara's Fate]]}}
==== Decide Minthara's Fate ====
{{Main|Decide Minthara's Fate}}
What becomes of Minthara can be decided in this quest of hers.
What becomes of Minthara can be decided in this quest of hers.


==== Act Two ====
Should Minthara have survived the events of Act 1, whether friendly or hostile, she will be next encountered in the Moonrise Towers on trial by Ketheric Thorm for failing to retrieve the {{SmRarityItem|Mysterious Artefact}}. The party can intervene on her behalf, but Ketheric will sentence her to death regardless of what is said. This will begin the quest {{Quest|Decide Minthara's Fate}}.
Should Minthara have survived the events of Act 1, whether friendly or hostile, she will be next encountered in the Moonrise Towers on trial by [[Ketheric Thorm]] for failing to retrieve the [[Mysterious Artefact]]. The party can intervene on her behalf, but Ketheric will sentence her to death regardless of what is said. This will begin the quest [[Decide Minthara's Fate]].  
 
The party can choose to follow, in which case they'll find her at the [[Moonrise Towers Prison]], undergoing torture by two [[Gnome]] Questioners. Here, a choice can be made: join the questioners in erasing Minthara's mind, turning her into a witless thrall of the Absolute, or help her escape. This can be done by slaying the gnomes or by dialogue. If freed, the party will need to escort Minthara out of the prison, either through dialogue or violence. Regardless, once out, Minthara can go on her own way or be convinced to join the party, at which point she will join the camp.


The party can choose to follow, in which case they'll find her at the [[Moonrise Towers Prison]], undergoing torture by two [[gnome]] Questioners. Here, a choice can be made: join the questioners in erasing Minthara's mind, turning her into a witless thrall of the Absolute, or help her escape. This can be done by slaying the gnomes or by dialogue. If freed, the party will need to escort Minthara out of the prison, either through dialogue or violence. Regardless, once out, Minthara can go on her own way or be convinced to join the party, at which point she will join the camp.
If the party allows {{CharLink|Balthazar}} to take the {{CharLink|Aylin|Nightsong}} during {{Quest|Find Ketheric Thorm's Relic}}, and finds {{CharLink|Isobel Thorm|Isobel}} for the absolutists, they will be granted an audience with Ketheric Thorm who will allow them to pray at the altar of the Absolute. Doing so will ultimately result in the party being imprisoned in pods in the [[Mind Flayer Colony]], where Balthazar will attempt to turn them into zombies at his service. In the fight that ensues, the party may battle a [[Zombie Dror Ragzlin]] and [[Zombie Minthara]], if either of them died during the events prior.


If the party allows [[Balthazar]] to take the [[Nightsong]] during [[Find Ketheric Thorm's Relic]], and finds [[Isobel]] for the absolutists, they will be granted an audience with Ketheric Thorm who will allow them to pray at the altar of the Absolute. Doing so will ultimately result in the party being imprisoned in pods in the [[Mind Flayer Colony]], where Balthazar will attempt to turn them into zombies at his service. In the fight that ensues, the party may battle a [[Zombie Dror Ragzlin]] and [[Zombie Minthara]], if either of them died during the events prior.
=== Act Three ===
Minthara can be one of possible victims of Orin's kidnapping during Act 3 as part of {{Quest|Rescue Orin's Victim}}. If so, once Orin is defeated and Minthara has been rescued, she will have some words about the entire ordeal. Additionally, she'll also express being disheartened after killing her former abuser, as even though Orin could only copy the surface characteristics of her victims, Minthara saw her herself in Orin's bloodlust and madness, a shattered but possible version of herself had she not broken free from the Absolute's control.


=== Get Orin's Netherstone ===
==== Get Orin's Netherstone ====
{{Hatnote|See main article: [[Get Orin's Netherstone]]}}
{{Hatnote|See main article: [[Get Orin's Netherstone]]}}
Having been indoctrinated into the [[Cult of the Absolute]] by Orin herself, Minthara has a personal stake in this quest.
Having been indoctrinated into the [[Cult of the Absolute]] by Orin herself, Minthara has a personal stake in this quest.
==== Act Three ====
Minthara can be one of possible victims of Orin's kidnapping during Act 3 as part of [[Rescue Orin's Victim]]. If so, once Orin is defeated and Minthara has been rescued, she will have some words about the entire ordeal. Additionally, she'll also express being disheartened after killing her former abuser, as even though Orin could only copy the surface characteristics of her victims, Minthara saw her herself in Orin's bloodlust and madness, a shattered but possible version of herself had she not broken free from the Absolute's control.


=== Endings ===
=== Endings ===
{{UnderConstruction|section}}
==== Return to Menzoberranzan ====
==== Return to Menzoberranzan ====
After the defeat of the [[Netherbrain]], a romanced Minthara will ask the player what their plans are now that they are free. She can be encouraged to return to Menzoberranzan, to which she will agree, suggesting they put the gnomes back to work to rebuild the [[Steel Watcher|Steel Watch]], returning as conquerors to found a new noble House. Six months after the fall of the absolutists, Minthara will mention that the war against House Baenre is going well, but that she welcomes the distraction of [[Withers|Withers']] party.
After the defeat of the [[Netherbrain]], a romanced Minthara will ask the player what their plans are now that they are free. She can be encouraged to return to Menzoberranzan, to which she will agree, suggesting they put the gnomes back to work to rebuild the [[Steel Watcher|Steel Watch]], returning as conquerors to found a new noble House. Six months after the fall of the absolutists, Minthara will mention that the war against House Baenre is going well, but that she welcomes the distraction of {{CharLink|Withers|Withers'}} party.


== Quest rewards ==
== Quest rewards ==
* {{MdRarityItem|Gift from the Absolute}} — given by Minthara for siding with the absolutists and raiding the grove as part of [[Raid the Emerald Grove]]
* {{MdRarityItem|Gift from the Absolute}} — given by Minthara for siding with the absolutists and raiding the grove.
* {{MdRarityItem|Spider's Lyre}} — given by Minthara after the camp celebration upon successfully raiding the grove as part of [[Raid the Emerald Grove]]
* {{MdRarityItem|Spider's Lyre}} — given by Minthara after the camp celebration upon successfully raiding the grove, or can be looted on her body if killed during act one.


== Interactions ==
== Interactions ==
{{UnderConstruction|section}}
=== Companion interactions ===
=== Companion interactions ===
Minthara has unique dialogue interactions as a companion available after certain events. Whenever one is available, she will have a floating [ ! ] icon above her.
Minthara has unique dialogue interactions as a companion available after certain events. Whenever one is available, she will have a floating [ ! ] icon above her.
Line 167: Line 190:


==== Act Three ====
==== Act Three ====
* [[Viconia DeVir]]
* {{CharLink|Viconia DeVir}}


== Combat ==
== Combat ==
{{Infobox statistics
{{Main|Minthara/Combat}}
| name = Combat statistics
== Loot ==
| level = 6
Minthara can be killed and looted. She will have the same items as her starting equipment, except for her [[Minthara's Underwear|underwear]]. If knocked unconscious, she will drop no [[Mind Flayer Parasite Specimen]] and no supply pack.{{ref|Prior to Patch #7, {{SmRarityItem|Minthara's Underwear}} could be looted, too. Since Patch #7 this is not possible anymore. However, her Underwear is still shown on her looted body.}}
| race = [[Lolth-sworn drow]]
| class = [[Oath of Vengeance]] [[Paladin]]
| size = Medium
| type = Humanoid
| armour_class = 16
| hit_points = 52
| hit_points_tactician = 67
| movement_speed_meters = 9
| movement_speed_feet = 30
| weight_kg = 75
| weight_lb = 150
| str = 16
| dex = 15
| con = 14
| int = 10
| wis = 12
| cha = 17
| wis_save_proficiency = yes
| cha_save_proficiency = yes
| condition1_name = Aura of Protection
| condition1_description = You and allies within 3 m / 10 ft gain a bonus to [[saving throws]] equal to your [[Charisma]] [[modifier]].
| feature1_name = Dual Wielder
| feature1_description = You can use [[Two-Weapon Fighting]] for all non-Heavy weapons.
| feature2_name = Dual Wielder: Bonus Armour Class
| feature2_description = +1 bonus to [[AC]] while dual wielding.
| feature3_name = Defence
| feature3_description = +1 bonus to AC while wearing armour.
| feature4_name = Divine Health
| feature4_description = Immune to [[Diseased (Condition Type)|disease]].
| feature5_name = Drow Weapon Training
| feature5_description = Proficient with [[Rapiers]], [[Shortswords]], and [[Hand Crossbows]].  
| feature6_name = Extra Attack
| feature6_description = Make an free attack after an unarmed or weapon attack.
| feature7_name = Fey Ancestry
| feature7_description = Immunity to sleep and [[advantage]] on [[saving throws]] against being [[Charmed (Condition)|Charmed]].
| feature8_name = Focused Stride
| feature8_item = Boots of Striding
| feature8_description = When you cast a spell that requires [[concentration]], you gain [[Momentum (Condition)|Momentum]] for 1 turn. While you are concentrating, you cannot be pushed or get knocked [[Prone (Condition)|Prone]].
| feature9_name = Opportunity Attack
| feature9_description = Automatically attack an enemy moving out of your reach.
| feature10_name = Stealthy
| feature10_item = Spidersilk Armour
| feature10_description = Gain a +1 bonus to [[Stealth]] [[Ability Checks|ability checks]].
| feature11_name = Superior Darkvision
| feature11_description = Can see in the dark up to 24 m / 80 ft.
| feature12_name = Xyanyde's Fire
| feature12_item = Xyanyde
| feature12_description = Once per [[short rest]], you can encase a target in [[Faerie Fire (Condition)|Faerie Fire]] for 2 turns if you miss an attack against it.
}}
Accompanied by [[Rozzak]] and [[Skrut]], Minthara will be found at the war table at the north-eastern corner of the [[Shattered Sanctum]] {{Coords|333|42}}, planning her attack on the [[Emerald Grove]]. [[Sazza]] may join her at the table, if alive and freed beforehand. A [[Scrying Eye]] will patrol the area between the library and the war table, and any hostile action will alert the eye which in turn could alert nearby enemies. Disabling the eye, such as pushing it into the nearby chasm, will be the most reliable solution. Near the war table, overlooking the north-most chasm, is a [[Goblin Camp#War Drum:|war drum]]. Hostile goblins will attempt to use it to alert allies in a big radius, including the entire [[Dror Ragzlin]] throne room. [[Zurga]] may also join if she was patrolling nearby when the combat started. It might be best to stealthily destroy the drum before the fight begins.


Minthara can cast an array of [[Paladin]] and general spells: her signature [[Soul Branding]] to buff herself or an ally, as well as [[Misty Step]] to teleport, [[Hold Person]] to incapacitate enemies, [[Bless]] on her allies, [[Vow of Enmity]] on an enemy, and [[Lay on Hands: Greater Healing]] to restore a large portion of health to her or to an ally. She may also encase the target in [[Faerie Fire (Condition)|Faerie Fire]] on a miss, once per short rest, thanks to her mace [[Xyanyde]], while having immunity to being pushed or knocked [[Prone (Condition)|Prone]] while [[concentrating]], thanks to her [[Boots of Striding]]. Wielding a weapon in each hand and sporting an [[Extra Attack|extra attack]], she can cast [[Divine Smite (reaction)|Divine Smite]] up to 3 times in one turn, making her a formidable foe.
If all equipment and clothing is looted from her and she is left unconscious, she will reappear in Act 2 at Moonrise Towers in a new set of camp clothes including camp shoes and underwear.


It is best to prioritise or incapacitate her quickly. Her nearby goblin allies will quickly swarm the party, which might call for use of crowd control spells to manage the dangers. The room has a big chasm drop in the middle, which can be utilised to shove enemies into it for an easy kill, albeit losing all their loot. The bridge over the chasm that connects the library and the war table areas can also be collapsed by attacking its wooden supports, preventing reinforcements from arriving as easily, or preventing Minthara from closing the distance if engaged at range.
=== Starting equipment ===
 
If looted:
Finally, Minthara can be killed effortlessly by agreeing to raid the grove during dialogue. Once the deal is struck, she will move to marshal the goblins, eventually crossing the wooden bridge above the chasm. This will give the party an opportunity to collapse the bridge under her, killing her instantly, but her loot will be lost as a result.
* {{MdRarityItem|Minthara's At-Ease Clothes}}
 
* {{MdRarityItem|Tasteful Boots|override_icon=Generated_ARM_Camp_Shoes_Minthara_Unfaded.png|override_rarity=common|Minthara's Tasteful Boots}}
If recruited, Minthara starts as a level 1 Paladin, ready to advance in level.
* {{MdRarityItem|Minthara's Underwear}}
 
=== Nearby allies ===
* [[Scrying Eye]]
* [[Rozzak]]
* [[Skrut]]
* [[Zurga]] - if patrolling nearby
* [[Sazza]] - if alive and freed during [[Save the Goblin Sazza]]
 
=== Loot ===
Minthara can be killed and looted. She will have the same items as her starting equipment, except for her [[Minthara's Underwear|underwear]]. If knocked unconscious, she will drop the underwear, but no [[Mind Flayer Parasite Specimen]] and no supply pack.


If all equipment and clothing is looted from her and she is left unconscious, she will reappear in Act 2 at Moonrise Towers in a new set of camp clothes.
If not looted:
{{div col}}
{{div col}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Alchemy Pouch}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Boots of Striding}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Camp Supply Sack}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Camp Supply Sack}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Alchemy Pouch}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Xyanyde}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Mace}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Dagger}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Dagger}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Spidersilk Armour}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Boots of Striding}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Drow Leather Gloves}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Drow Leather Gloves}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Mace}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Minthara's At-Ease Clothes}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Minthara's At-Ease Clothes}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Tasteful Boots|uid=ARM_Camp_Shoes_Minthara}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Tasteful Boots|override_icon=Generated_ARM_Camp_Shoes_Minthara_Unfaded.png|override_rarity=common|Minthara's Tasteful Boots}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Minthara's Underwear}} - if knocked out
* {{MdRarityItem|Minthara's Underwear}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Supply Pack}} - if killed
* {{MdRarityItem|Mind Flayer Parasite Specimen}} - if killed
* {{MdRarityItem|Spider's Lyre}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Spider's Lyre}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Spidersilk Armour}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Supply Pack}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Xyanyde}}
{{div col end}}
{{div col end}}
{{clear}}
{{clear}}
== Related literature ==
* {{MdRarityItem|Drow's Letter}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Note to Self}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Parchment (Goblin Camp)|Parchment}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Unfinished Love Letter}}
* {{MdRarityItem|War Map}}


== Gallery ==
== Gallery ==
<gallery heights="200px" mode="packed">
<gallery heights="250px" mode="packed">
File:Minthara Unarmed Model.webp|Base model.
File:Minthara Unarmed Model.webp|Base model.
File:Minthara Camp Model.webp|Camp clothing model.
File:Minthara Camp Model.webp|Camp clothing model.
Line 277: Line 246:
File:Minthara Concept Art.png|Digital Artbook concept.
File:Minthara Concept Art.png|Digital Artbook concept.
</gallery>
</gallery>
== Related literature ==
* {{MdRarityItem|Drow's Letter}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Note to Self}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Parchment (Goblin Camp)|Parchment}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Unfinished Love Letter}}


== Notes ==
== Notes ==
{{notebegin}}
{{notelist}}
{{notelist}}
{{notebegin}}
{{noteend}}
* If the player is a [[Lolth-sworn drow]], many unique dialogue options are available, one of which includes condemning Minthara and attacking her for abandoning Lolth.
* In traditional Drow names, the prefix "Min-" means "lesser", "minor", or "second", while the suffix "-thara" means "glyph", "marker", or "rune".{{ref|Owen K.C. Stephens, "By Any Other Name: The Drow", ''Dragon'' 267 (January 2000): 28-31}}
* Minthara has exploration lines for [[Rosymorn Monastery]] as well as for the destruction sequence of the weapon on the rooftop. It's possible that during development she was intended to be a companion earlier than she ended up being for release.
* Minthara has an exploration line at the Nautiloid as well. {{noteend}}


== References ==
== References ==
{{div col}}{{reflist}}{{div col end}}
{{notebegin}}
{{reflist|text}}
{{reflist}}
{{reflist|url}}
{{noteend}}


== External links ==
== External links ==

Latest revision as of 23:41, 25 November 2024

Overview Approval Banter Romance Combat

Nightwarden Minthara[1] Baenre is a recruitable Companion with the Noble background. She is a Lolth-Sworn Drow[2] and an Oath of Vengeance Paladin first appearing during Act One.

Ruthless in service of the Absolute, she commands a camp of Goblins planning an attack on the Druid Grove in the name of their god. Initially hostile unless the player character both sides with and sleeps with her in Act One, she can be re-encountered during Act Two and saved from execution, at which point she can be recruited into the party as well as romanced by characters of any gender.


Portrait Minthara.png
“
Bhaal, Lolth... the Absolute. They do not have followers - they only have victims, and they reward devotion with death.
„
— Minthara on gods

Overview[edit | edit source]

For a full overview of Minthara's starting features, see the articles Paladin, Oath of Vengeance, and Lolth-sworn drow.

Background[edit | edit source]

A member of the ancient House Baenre, Minthara is a True Soul in the service of the Absolute and one of the three leaders of the Goblin Camp in the Wilderness. She and her fellow True Souls, Gut Priestess Gut and Dror Ragzlin Dror Ragzlin, set up a base of operations in an old Selûnite temple in search of a Mysterious Artefact by order of the Absolute.

Starting class[edit | edit source]

Before she is recruited, Minthara is a level 6 Paladin with the following Ability Scores: STR = 16, DEX = 15, CON = 14, INT = 10, WIS = 12, CH = 17. If she is recruited, then Minthara changes to a level 1 Paladin with the standard ability scores for that Class, with a focus on dual-wielding one-handed weapons. Her Subclass is Oath of Vengeance, giving her a more offence-oriented toolkit, with more ways of controlling and debuffing foes in battle.

Special features[edit | edit source]

Minthara has the passive Soul Branding Soul Branding, allowing her to grant herself or an ally an additional 5 m / 17 ft of movement and 2d4 + 1Damage TypesFire damage on their next attack. She also bears the Brand of the Absolute and can fully benefit from items with this effect. Furthermore, she will already have access to the following illithid powers:

Personal quest[edit | edit source]

Minthara does not have a personal quest like other companions. However, she is directly involved in two important quests.

As part of the main-quest Save the Refugees Save the Refugees, the party can decide which side to support in the conflict between the goblins and the druids of the grove. If siding with the druids and refugees, Minthara will be hostile and become an objective of Defeat the Goblins Defeat the Goblins. If sided with the forces of the Absolute, she will appear as an ally as part of Raid the Grove Raid the Grove. If the grove has been sealed, on the day of the raid she will instruct her raiders to kill the party.

In Decide Minthara's Fate Decide Minthara's Fate, the party can decide what will happen with Minthara after her trial at the hands of Ketheric Thorm Ketheric Thorm and Z'rell Disciple Z'rell at Moonrise Towers.

After recruiting Minthara has a personal interest destroying the Cult of the Absolute and especially in killing Orin Orin the Red and therefore completing Get Orin's Netherstone Get Orin's Netherstone because of vengeance. Orin killed Minthara's Drow companions, and tortured and enslaved her to the Cult of the Absolute through implanting a tadpole in Minthara's brain. The Cult of the Absolute forced Minthara to commit massacres on the enemies of the cult.

Recruitment[edit | edit source]

Although Minthara can be encountered in Act One, she cannot join the player's party as a permanent companion before reaching Moonrise Towers in Act Two.[3][4]

Act Two[edit | edit source]

  • If left alive after the events of Act 1, Minthara will be found at Moonrise Towers facing trial by Ketheric Thorm for failing to find the Mysterious Artefact. Sentenced to death, she is taken to Moonrise Towers Prison to be tortured until her execution. The party can find her and help her escape, and if invited to camp, she will offer to join them.
    • Should the party side with Minthara during Save the Refugees Save the Refugees and raid the grove with her, no additional steps are needed to ensure that she appears at Moonrise Towers.
    • If the party sides with the druids instead, but still wishes to meet Minthara at the Moonrise Towers, she must be knocked out when fought. This can occur whether at her camp in the Shattered Sanctum or when defending the grove from the goblin attack.[5][6][note 1]

Approval[edit | edit source]

Main article: Minthara/approval
Minthara Approves

Minthara approves of displays of power and control, often in the form of violent, if not efficient, solutions to problems. She respects those with the strength to follow their own will, and enjoys cruel irony on occasion.

Minthara dislikes shows of compassion, especially towards those she considers weak. She will disapprove of any form of benevolence without something to gain for it, as well as senseless violence that does not aid the party in some way. Above all, she despises acts of weakness and any form of worship of Lolth.

Romance[edit | edit source]

Main article: Minthara/romance

If the party sides with the absolutists and successfully raids the druid grove, the player can have a one-night stand with Minthara to celebrate their victory.

Should Minthara be saved and recruited, she can be romanced by characters of either gender. Though initially cold, Minthara will show some of her deepest fears to her partner, as well as display a more romantic, if not jealous, side of her.

Description[edit | edit source]

Appearance[edit | edit source]

With a stern countenance and piercing eyes, Minthara has an imposing presence. Like most drow, she has purplish-blue skin, with crimson eyes and pointed ears. Her silver hair is kept in a messy top bun, with stray strands of hair adorning her face. On the left side of her neck, she bears the seal of House Baenre in black, marking her a member of the ancestral house. Her combat equipment is well-made, and her at-ease clothes reflect some of her noble upbringing.

Personality[edit | edit source]

As a drow and follower of the Absolute, Minthara has a highly hostile and cruel attitude towards other beings, considering almost everyone as inferior. She has a special disdain for those who do not share her beliefs, and holds other Drow in high regard. Her upbringing as a noble in Menzoberranzan further compounds her superiority complex. Aligned with the Absolute, she's willing to do whatever it takes to serve it.

Power hungry, she is always looking for ways to increase her standing among her peers, product of her drow upbringing. Having been a follower of Lolth once, she also knows that violence, deception, and cruelty are great tools to obtain what she wants.

Despite her overt dislike for others, she is an observant person, always studying those that surround her. Minthara often understands the plights of her companions, even if she doesn't necessarily care for them, and she's always willing to give them a solution in her own way. Though her methods may sometimes be extreme, they always have a sound reasoning. Still, she doesn't support mindless cruelty if it serves no purpose, and even shows a weak spot for Scratch Scratch. If romanced, she also shows that she harbours doubts about her life and circumstances.

Whether due to her looks or attitude, Minthara reveals she's had quite a few lovers in the past[10] and even has a few suitors amongst the goblins, unbeknownst to her.[11][12]

If recruited and freed from the Absolute's influence, Minthara's cruelty will be more tempered, and her fury will be aimed solely at the other leaders of the Cult - particularly Orin Orin the Red. She also becomes contemplative of her actions under the Absolute's influence, and rues letting them exploit her fears and yearning for belonging to use her as a tool.

History[edit | edit source]

Menzoberranzan[edit | edit source]

Born into the ancient House Baenre of Menzoberranzan, Minthara was raised as a noble of the city in Qu'ellarz'orl, a plateau above the city expanse.[13] Taught in the ways of Lolth, she eventually rose to be an important house matron, enjoying all the luxuries of her birthright. She survived her first assassination attempt when she was a child, and another at the hands of her mother when she came of age.[14]

Sometime during her life there, she encountered a True Soul and two novices preaching the message of the Absolute. Minthara had them hanged and displayed as a warning against heresy,[15] but curiosity got the best of her, and after using necromancy on the corpses to find their base of operations, she prepared a retinue of warriors to strike at the Moonrise Towers.

Indoctrination and time in the Cult[edit | edit source]

Minthara gathered her allies to battle the absolutists, yet, when they arrived at the Moonrise Towers, they were met with a lavish feast and a welcome fit for a house matron. Ketheric Thorm Ketheric Thorm had been expecting her, and invited her to partake of his feast alongside Orin Orin the Red. He explained he wished to form an alliance between Moonrise and Menzoberranzan, flattering Minthara and playing to her pride.[16] Lowering her guard, Minthara was unable to react in time as Orin jumped on the table and sliced her men's throats as she approached her. Standing before her, Orin expressed her interest in Minthara, and Ketheric approved of it, ordering her to be taken to the Mind Flayer Colony.[17] There, Minthara was held for some time, helplessly watching as her men were processed for food or to be turned into thralls. Eventually, Orin returned and placed the tadpole in Minthara's eye, sealing the drow's fate as part of the Cult of the Absolute.[18]

Under orders of her new god, Minthara participated in many massacres carried out by the cult, mostly against religious communities who refused to be converted. She became a zealot, and in time, even began to admire Orin. Orin would manipulate her further, telling her lies of how she was a True Soul, chosen by the Absolute as her greatest weapon.[19] For Minthara, the Absolute was more than just a god, it was everything she ever truly wanted.[19] With a new purpose, Minthara heads to the Wilderness in search of a powerful weapon her new goddess desires, hungry to prove herself.

Involvement[edit | edit source]

Act One[edit | edit source]

Minthara is first encountered at the Shattered Sanctum within the Goblin Camp, planning an attack on Emerald Grove at the behest of the Absolute. When spoken to, she will quickly identify the party as fellow True Souls and reveal that she believes the druids are hiding a powerful weapon at their grove that the Absolute desires. She has been surveying the land in search of the weapon, sending scouts to track the leader of the grove, Halsin.[20] Minthara will probe the party's minds with her tadpole, possibly leading to the grove's location being exposed.

Save the Refugees[edit | edit source]

Minthara.png
Main articles: Save the Refugees and Defeat the Goblins

Though Minthara does not have a personal quest, she is deeply involved in Save the Refugees Save the Refugees as well. The party can fight Minthara as part of the quest Defeat the Goblins Defeat the Goblins, turning her and the rest of the goblins around her hostile. Fighting her will turn the rest of the camp hostile. With one of the three goblin leaders dead, Dror Ragzlin Dror Ragzlin and Gut Priestess Gut would be next.

Raiding the Grove[edit | edit source]

Main article: Raid the Emerald Grove

Alternatively, the party can entertain the possibility of raiding the grove with the absolutists. This will add the quest Raid the Emerald Grove Raid the Emerald Grove to the journal. If they choose to ally with the forces of the Absolute and disclose the grove's location, the raid of the grove will begin after the next Long Rest. Carrying on with the raid will cause Karlach Karlach and Wyll Wyll to permanently leave the player's party. After the grove has been destroyed, Minthara and the goblins will join the party at their camp and celebrate their slaughter of the druids, even if they ultimately failed to find the weapon the Absolute desired. Minthara will also offer to have a casual encounter with the player character. Rejecting her will anger her, but will have no negative consequences.

After the celebrations, Minthara will urge the party to join the forces of the Absolute at the Moonrise Towers in the Shadow-Cursed Lands. She will give the party her Spider's Lyre to summon a guide that will help them through the deadly shadows, and will depart shortly after.

Double-Crossing Minthara[edit | edit source]

Alternatively after initialising the raid on the grove through talking with Minthara, it is possible to double-cross her. First Halsin must be freed in the Worg Pens but left there. Then, after agreeing with Minthara to seize the grove, the party must talk to Halsin in the Worg Pens and then immediately travel to the Emerald Grove. All this must be done without any long rest.

At the Emerald Grove the party must side with the Tiefling defenders. If the goblin forces are defeated and Minthara is killed or knocked out, then the quests Rescue the Druid Halsin Rescue the Druid Halsin and Defeat the Goblins Defeat the Goblins will be completed without killing Dror Ragzlin and Gut.

Act Two[edit | edit source]

Decide Minthara's Fate[edit | edit source]

Main article: Decide Minthara's Fate

What becomes of Minthara can be decided in this quest of hers.

Should Minthara have survived the events of Act 1, whether friendly or hostile, she will be next encountered in the Moonrise Towers on trial by Ketheric Thorm for failing to retrieve the Mysterious Artefact. The party can intervene on her behalf, but Ketheric will sentence her to death regardless of what is said. This will begin the quest Decide Minthara's Fate Decide Minthara's Fate.

The party can choose to follow, in which case they'll find her at the Moonrise Towers Prison, undergoing torture by two Gnome Questioners. Here, a choice can be made: join the questioners in erasing Minthara's mind, turning her into a witless thrall of the Absolute, or help her escape. This can be done by slaying the gnomes or by dialogue. If freed, the party will need to escort Minthara out of the prison, either through dialogue or violence. Regardless, once out, Minthara can go on her own way or be convinced to join the party, at which point she will join the camp.

If the party allows Balthazar Balthazar to take the Aylin Nightsong during Find Ketheric Thorm's Relic Find Ketheric Thorm's Relic, and finds Isobel Thorm Isobel for the absolutists, they will be granted an audience with Ketheric Thorm who will allow them to pray at the altar of the Absolute. Doing so will ultimately result in the party being imprisoned in pods in the Mind Flayer Colony, where Balthazar will attempt to turn them into zombies at his service. In the fight that ensues, the party may battle a Zombie Dror Ragzlin and Zombie Minthara, if either of them died during the events prior.

Act Three[edit | edit source]

Minthara can be one of possible victims of Orin's kidnapping during Act 3 as part of Rescue Orin's Victim Rescue Orin's Victim. If so, once Orin is defeated and Minthara has been rescued, she will have some words about the entire ordeal. Additionally, she'll also express being disheartened after killing her former abuser, as even though Orin could only copy the surface characteristics of her victims, Minthara saw her herself in Orin's bloodlust and madness, a shattered but possible version of herself had she not broken free from the Absolute's control.

Get Orin's Netherstone[edit | edit source]

See main article: Get Orin's Netherstone

Having been indoctrinated into the Cult of the Absolute by Orin herself, Minthara has a personal stake in this quest.

Endings[edit | edit source]

Return to Menzoberranzan[edit | edit source]

After the defeat of the Netherbrain, a romanced Minthara will ask the player what their plans are now that they are free. She can be encouraged to return to Menzoberranzan, to which she will agree, suggesting they put the gnomes back to work to rebuild the Steel Watch, returning as conquerors to found a new noble House. Six months after the fall of the absolutists, Minthara will mention that the war against House Baenre is going well, but that she welcomes the distraction of Withers Withers' party.

Quest rewards[edit | edit source]

  • Gift from the Absolute — given by Minthara for siding with the absolutists and raiding the grove.
  • Spider's Lyre — given by Minthara after the camp celebration upon successfully raiding the grove, or can be looted on her body if killed during act one.

Interactions[edit | edit source]

Companion interactions[edit | edit source]

Minthara has unique dialogue interactions as a companion available after certain events. Whenever one is available, she will have a floating [ ! ] icon above her.

Act Two[edit | edit source]

  • Upon arrival at the camp as a companion, she will have dialogue about some of her time under the Absolute and her vow of vengeance. If you add her to the party while she still has unfinished dialogue, she will ask you to give her privacy and cut you out of this dialogue.
  • After defeating Ketheric, Minthara will sit on his throne, gloating. When spoken to, she will reveal more about how she was indoctrinated into the Cult, and her plans once the Cult is destroyed.

Act Three[edit | edit source]

  • Upon reaching Rivington, Minthara will comment on the state of the refugees and city's refusal to let them in.
  • If pursuing a romance with her, she will at some point ask to see the player's thoughts on her.

Unique interactions[edit | edit source]

As a companion, Minthara has unique interactions and special dialogue with the following characters, listed by the act they are first encountered in.

Act Two[edit | edit source]

Act Three[edit | edit source]

Combat[edit | edit source]

Main article: Minthara/Combat

Loot[edit | edit source]

Minthara can be killed and looted. She will have the same items as her starting equipment, except for her underwear. If knocked unconscious, she will drop no Mind Flayer Parasite Specimen and no supply pack.[21]

If all equipment and clothing is looted from her and she is left unconscious, she will reappear in Act 2 at Moonrise Towers in a new set of camp clothes including camp shoes and underwear.

Starting equipment[edit | edit source]

If looted:

If not looted:

Related literature[edit | edit source]

Gallery[edit | edit source]

  • Base model.

    Base model.

  • Camp clothing model.

    Camp clothing model.

  • Underwear model.

    Underwear model.

  • Early Access post-Patch 6 model.

    Early Access post-Patch 6 model.

  • Early Access Patch 5 model.

    Early Access Patch 5 model.

  • Early Access pre-Patch 5 model.

    Early Access pre-Patch 5 model.

  • Appearance on the level-up screen.

    Appearance on the level-up screen.

  • Portrait by Edward Vanderghote.

    Portrait by Edward Vanderghote.

  • PS5 reveal press kit appearance.

    PS5 reveal press kit appearance.

  • Patch 6 of Early Access.

    Patch 6 of Early Access.

  • Patch 5 of Early Access.

    Patch 5 of Early Access.

  • At the start of Early Access.

    At the start of Early Access.

  • Digital Artbook concept.

    Digital Artbook concept.

Notes[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Minthara went through some recruitment changes during development and after release.
    Intended to be recruited only if the grove was destroyed, prior to Patch 5, an exploit could be used to recruit Minthara when siding with the grove. Minthara had to be knocked out temporarily in Act 1, recovering after a long rest. Once the party reached Act 2 and acquired the spells Polymorph Polymorph and Dominate Beast Dominate Beast, they had to return to Shattered Sanctum, turn her into a sheep and dominate her. The party then had to fast-travel back to the Moonrise Towers and then had to move Minthara as a sheep into the throne room, where the judgement continued as if Minthara was alive. After the cutscene she would be transported to the dungeon. The party had to attack her quickly once imprisoned as she would begin to run away otherwise, and then turn invisible and exit combat. Minthara was then part of the interrogation scene and her recruitment could proceed as normal.
    When Patch 5 was introduced, Minthara could be recruited if she was knocked out temporarily at her camp in the Shattered Sanctum, dealing with the rest of the goblin camp without long rests in-between as the game files checked for both conditions in order to trigger her scene at Moonrise Towers.[7][8]
    Patch 6 removed the requirement for Minthara being temporarily hostile / knocked out. The game no longer checks for that condition. It became possible to recruit Minthara through knocking her out when defending the grove from the goblin attack.[9] However, if Minthara was knocked out in the goblin camp, the quest Defeat the Goblins Defeat the Goblins had to be finished prior to taking a Long Rest.
    Since Patch 7 all methods of knocking her out result in a recruitment opportunity.

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ In traditional Drow names, the prefix "Min-" means "lesser", "minor", or "second", while the suffix "-thara" means "glyph", "marker", or "rune". Owen K.C. Stephens, "By Any Other Name: The Drow", Dragon 267 (January 2000): 28-31
  2. ↑ If the player character is a Lolth-sworn drow, many unique dialogue options are available, one of which includes condemning Minthara and attacking her for abandoning Lolth.
  3. ↑ Recruiting Minthara during Act 2 and then returning to Act 1 areas will make Minthara leave the party. Whether intended or a bug, this can be circumvented by casting Silence Silence on her before traveling to an Act 1 area.
  4. ↑ Minthara has exploration lines for Rosymorn Monastery as well as for the destruction sequence of the weapon on the rooftop. It's possible that during development she was intended to be a companion earlier than she ended up being for release. She also has an exploration line at the Nautiloid as well.
  5. ↑ Patch 7 notes "Knocked Out Minthara will now always flee to Moonrise Towers."
  6. ↑ It has been observed that, as long as she is knocked out in the in the Shattered Sanctum, it's possible to complete Defeat the Goblins Defeat the Goblins after several long rests without compromising her recruitment later in Act Two.
  7. ↑ Patch 5 notes "Minthara will still appear at Moonrise Towers if she was knocked out in Act I."
  8. ↑ PSA - Recruiting Minthara In A Good Playthrough by Crimsomrider at Larian Studios forums on 2023-11-30. https://forums.larian.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=925862 [Retrieved 2024-01-04.]
  9. ↑ Patch 6 notes "Increased the number of valid methods of knocking Minthara out to recruit her."
  10. ↑ Various locations, party banter between Minthara and Karlach.
  11. ↑ Parchment (Goblin Camp)
  12. ↑ Unfinished Love Letter by Klagga Klagga
  13. ↑ Campsite, line spoken by Minthara to a drow noble player character.
    "Like you, I lived in Qu'ellarz'orl, high above the city's sprawl."
  14. ↑ Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when inquired about her upbringing in Menzoberranzan.
    "(...) I survived my first assassination attempt while I still suckled at my mother's breast. (...) When I came of age, she tried to take my life herself, and I gave her fresh scars to match those she earned protecting me."
  15. ↑ Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when asked how she came to be indoctrinated.
    "A True Soul came to my city preaching a message of togetherness, accompanied by two novices. Menzoberranzan is not fertile grounds for such messages. I killed them, and hanged their bodies in my garden."
  16. ↑ Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when asked how she came to be indoctrinated.
    "I expected a battle, but found a fully-laden feast table, and a welcome befitting a house matron. (...) Ketheric proposed an alliance between Moonrise and Menzoberranzzan. I admit, I was captivated by him."
  17. ↑ Campsite, lines spoken by Minthara when asked how she came to be indoctrinated.
    "Then, quick as lightning, she climbed onto the table, a dagger in each hand, and skipped toward me, slicing the throats out of my men as she passed them. (...) I want this one, she said. Ketheric nodded his permission, and I was taken below."
  18. ↑ Moonrise Towers, lines spoken by Minthara in the throne room after slaying Ketheric Thorm.
    "There was no god. Orin held me down in a cocoon of flesh, while a mind flayer forced a parasite into my brain. And she laughed at my fear."
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 Moonrise Towers, lines spoken by Minthara in the throne room after slaying Ketheric Thorm.
    "When I first visited Moonrise, I stood before the Absolute in awe. It was more of an idea than an entity. Pure love, total power. Orin was by my side. She told me that god had chosen me to be a True Soul. Blessed and adored."
  20. ↑ Drow's Letter by Minthara
  21. ↑ Prior to Patch #7, Minthara's Underwear could be looted, too. Since Patch #7 this is not possible anymore. However, her Underwear is still shown on her looted body.

External links[edit | edit source]

Minthara Baenre on the Forgotten Realms Wiki

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