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{{PageSeo
{{PageSeo
| description = Astarion is an Origin character and companion in Baldur's Gate 3. He is a High-Elf Rogue with the Noble background.
| description = Astarion is an Origin character and companion in Baldur's Gate 3. He is a High Elf Rogue with the Charlatan background.
| image = Astarion.png
| image = Astarion.png
}}
}}
 
{{Companion tab}}
{{CharacterInfo
{{Infobox creature
|title = Vampire Spawn
| name = Astarion
|name = Astarion Ancunín
| image = <gallery>
|image= [[File:Astarion.png|350px]]
Astarion.png|Cover artwork
|STR=8
Portrait Astarion.png|Portrait
|DEX=17
</gallery>
|CON=14
| full name = Astarion Ancunín
|INT=13
| title = The Pale Elf
|WIS=13
| class = [[Rogue]]
|CHA=10
| background = [[Charlatan]]
|dex save=yes |int save=yes
| race = [[Elf]]
|level=1
| subrace = [[High Elf]]
|race={{Race|High Elf}}
| size = Medium
|type=Humanoid
| type = [[Humanoid]]
|HP=10
| creator = Stephen Rooney
|AC=11
| age = {{ublist|
|speed=9m / 30ft
* 39 years (turned)
|size=Medium
* 239 years (current)}}
|weight=50kg / 100lbs
| hometown = [[Baldur's Gate]]
|proficiency=2
| role = [[Origin characters|Origin Character]]<br>[[Companions|Companion]]
|initiative=+2
| va = Neil Newbon
|passive = {{IconLink|Darkvision Icon.png|Darkvision (Passive Feature)|Darkvision|size=24}}, [[Fey Ancestry]]
| movement m = 9
|class = Rogue
| weight kg = 75
|background=Charlatan
| level = 1
|location = [[Wilderness]]
| str = 8
|enemies = [[Cazador]]
| dex = 17
|alt-name = In-game
| con = 14
|alt-image = [[File:Astarionheadshot.jpg|350px]]
| int = 13
| wis = 13
| cha = 10
| dex save prof = yes
| int save prof = Yes
| passives = Darkvision, Fey Ancestry
| athletics = -1
| acrobatics = 3
| perception = 1
}}
}}


'''Astarion''' is an [[Origins|Origin]] character and [[companion]] in [[Baldur's Gate 3]]. He is an [[Elf]] [[Rogue]] with the [[Charlatan]] background.
'''Astarion Ancunín''' is an [[Origin characters|Origin Character]] and recruitable [[Companion]] with the [[Charlatan]] background. He is a [[High Elf]] and a [[Rogue]] first appearing during [[Act One]].  


Origin characters can be played as the main character, otherwise, they can be recruited as a [[companion]] early on.
A vampire spawn previously under the control of {{CharLink|Cazador Szarr}} until being abducted by the [[nautiloid]], Astarion is set on getting revenge on Cazador and becoming free no matter what. He can be first found west of the [[Nautiloid Wreck]] during Act One, where he can be recruited into the party as well as romanced by characters of any gender.  


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


== Gameplay==
{{TOC|limit=3}}
As a [[Rogue]], Astarion excels at [[Stealth]], [[Sleight of Hand]], and deadly [[Sneak Attack (Melee)|Sneak Attack]]s. At Level 3, Astarion can become a [[Thief]], [[Assassin]], or [[Arcane Trickster]]. As a Thief, he gains an additional [[Bonus Action]], granting him more martial versatility in battle. As an Arcane Trickster, he gains the ability to cast a limited number of [[Wizard#Wizard Spell List|Wizard Spells]].


Astarion's [[Background]] is [[Charlatan]].
== Overview ==


===Proficiencies===
=== Background ===
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.


=====Equipment=====
=== Starting Class ===
*{{SimpleWeaponsProf}}, {{WeaponType|Hand Crossbows}}, {{WeaponType|Longswords}}, {{WeaponType|Rapiers}}, {{WeaponType|Shortswords}}
Astarion starts as a [[Rogue]]. Upon reaching level three, he will default to the [[Arcane Trickster]] subclass.
*{{LightArmour}}


=====Saving Throws=====
=== Special Features ===
*{{Icon|Dexterity Ability Icon.png|35|link=Dexterity}} [[Dexterity]]
*{{Icon|Intelligence Ability Icon.png|35|link=Intelligence}} [[Intelligence]]


===== Skills=====
* Astarion will receive the {{SAI|Happy (Condition)}} after using the {{SAI|Vampire Bite}} ability on a humanoid.
*[[Acrobatics]]
* Astarion is immune to conditions and effects that do not affect undead, such as [[Mummy Rot (Condition)]].
*[[Deception]]
*[[Perception]]
*[[Performance]]
*[[Persuasion]]
*[[Sleight of Hand]] (x2)
*[[Stealth]] (x2)


===Spells Known===
=== Companion Quest ===
===== Cantrips Known=====
{{Main|The Pale Elf}}
{{div col | style = column-width: 18em; list-style-type: none;}}
Astarion's companion quest is called {{Quest|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.
* [[File:Fire Bolt Icon.png|frameless|upright=0.1|link=Fire Bolt]] [[Fire Bolt]] (from High Elf)
{{div col end}}


===Special Abilities===
=== Recruitment ===
{{div col | style = column-width: 18em; list-style-type: none;}}
{{Hatnote|Recruitable in [[Act One]].}}
* {{Icon|Sting Icon.png|30|link=Vampire Bite}} [[Vampire Bite]]
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.
{{div col end}}


==Recruitment==
=== Approval ===
Astarion can be recruited in [[Act One]].
{{Main|Astarion/approval}}
*Astarion can be found standing on a road west of the crashed [[Nautiloid]] in the [[Wilderness]]. When found, a scene will play where he is looking for help in defeating an [[Intellect Devourer]]. Afterwards, he can be asked to join the party.
[[File:Astarion Approval.png|44px|left|alt=Astarion Approves|link=|Astarion Approves]]
Astarion approves of displays of power and cruelty, and appreciates sarcasm and cleverness. He is inspired when the player character gains access to areas or information by deceiving others, or when they avoid combat through persuasion or deception. The player character does not have to be "evil" to gain his approval, however — he approves when the player makes choices that help him, that support his independence and autonomy, that are understanding toward his past, and that help certain people and animals he is fond of.  


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.


==Background==
=== Romance ===
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?
{{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, the reclaiming of his autonomy, and his navigation of newly found freedom. Astarion's romance also has different outcomes depending on the choices made at the end of his companion quest.


== Personal Quest==
== Description ==
Astarion's [[:Category:Companion Quests|Companion Quest]] is: [[The Pale Elf]]


==Personality==
=== Appearance ===
Astarion has a sadistic personality and often approves of evil, cruel or egotistic actions, though he seems to accept certain pragmatic ones. He values hedonism. He is disdainful, but not hostile, towards those he considers weak and unworthy of his attention.
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<ref>https://youtu.be/4lCVw2KK2NU?si=OC-l9wLIIiJndFlk&t=72</ref> and has a medium build and sharp facial features. He has pallid skin with dark circles and bags under his crimson eyes, as well as smile lines around his mouth and a faint beauty mark on his right cheek. He also has jaw-length, curly silver hair styled with pomade and curls around his long pointed ears. He has a bite-mark scar on the right side of his neck from when his old master {{CharLink|Cazador Szarr}} turned him into a vampire, and a myriad of scars carved by Cazador covering most of his back. When it comes to clothes, Astarion's choice in attire is usually on the fancier side, wearing an elaborate doublet, leather chaps and embroidered leather shoes when you recruit him. 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.


==Interactions==
=== Personality ===
===Approval===
Astarion's personality at the start is very much influenced by his background as a high elf magistrate and his time spent as a vampire spawn slave. Astarion is charming, eloquent, cunning, witty, sarcastic, and practical. But, 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 initially are his own autonomy, his own safety, and his revenge on Cazador, though he also prioritizes the party’s safety as a whole. 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.
[[File:Astarion Approval.png|44px|left|alt=Astarion Approves|link=|Astarion Approves]]Astarion likes displays of power and cruelty, and appreciates snarkiness and mocking. He is inspired when the player gains access to areas/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 when the player helps certain characters in need.


The following story and dialogue choices will cause Astarion to gain [[approval]].
Astarion at the beginning of the game is very fear-motivated and has a low self-worth, despite his confident and arrogant persona. He will attempt to manipulate others with sex and faux-romance to get them on his side so that he has protection from Cazador and other powerful enemies, as he believes that his sexual ability is his main attraction, and sex 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 harming 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.
{{SpoilerBox|
==== Act One ====
'''Unsorted'''
* Ask Astarion how he wants to die, then choose an option


'''[[Ravaged Beach]]'''
However, as the story progresses, Astarion can develop and change his personality depending on how he is guided during his questline. If Astarion's fears, beliefs, and unhealthy behaviors are contested, he will begin to deconstruct his cynical worldview, learning to stand up for himself, show empathy toward others, reconcile with those he has hurt in the past, form genuine bonds with people he trusts, and start to heal from his trauma. But, if Astarion is led down a path where his behaviors, fears, and beliefs are validated and encouraged, he will instead become a fearful, power-hungry, and abusive man who continues to repress his trauma and harm others.
* Attack the Tieflings holding [[Lae'zel]] in a cage. ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
* Ask [[Lae'zel]] to say 'please' after rescuing her ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
* Choose the 'Attack' dialogue option when speaking to [[Taman]] and [[Gimblebock]]


'''[[Druid Grove]]'''
== Gameplay ==
* Refuse to help [[Zevlor]] persuade [[Kagha]] to let the Tieflings stay. ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
Astarion's default class is rogue. His default high elf cantrip is {{SAI|Fire Bolt}}, but if selected as an origin, the player can choose any high elf cantrip they wish. As a vampire spawn he has access to a unique {{SAI|Vampire Bite}}, however this action does not appear as a companion until after the party finds out about his vampirism. If played as an origin, the ability becomes available after waking up from the [[Nautiloid]] crash.
* Tell [[Elegis]] that she is pathetic of being scared of a few goblins. ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
* Tell the Tielfling kids trained by [[Asharak]] that they are going to die ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
* Make [[Zorru]] bow to [[Lae'zel]] ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
* After the conversation with [[Zorru]] tell [[Lae'zel]] that she is good at interrogations ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
* Let [[Arka]] shoot [[Sazza]] ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
* When confronting [[Kagha]] about the shadow druids, choose to attack her instead of persuading her
* Telling [[Auntie Ethel]] about the tadpole in your head
* When speaking to [[Mattis]], take the ring, pocket the ring and tell him you paid him in experience.
* After saving [[Mirkon]], tell him to "stop sniveling or they'll be back."
* Attack the Tieflings


'''[[Sunlit Wetlands]]'''
=== Proficiencies ===
* When entering the [[Sunlit Wetlands]], pass the check to break the illusion, then BAA at the redcaps when you speak to them.
{{hlist|
* Let him kill [[Gandrel]]
==== Equipment proficiencies ====
* Tell [[Auntie Ethel]] about the tadpole
* {{SimpleWeaponsProf}}
* Speak to [[Lorin]] and roar at him
* {{WeaponType|Hand Crossbows}}
* When [[Auntie Ethel]]'s true form surrender, pass [[Intimidation]] or [[Deception]] Check to save [[Mayrina]] and obtain the power.
* {{LightArmour}}
* After killing [[Auntie Ethel]]'s true form, use the wand to resurrect [[Mayrina]]'s dead husband Connor, give her the wand, then tell [[Astarion]] that it was funny
* {{WeaponType|Longbows}}
* {{WeaponType|Longswords}}
* {{WeaponType|Rapiers}}
* {{WeaponType|Shortswords}}}}
{{hlist|
==== Save proficiencies ====
* [[Dexterity]]
* [[Intelligence]]}}
{{hlist|
==== Skill proficiencies ====
* [[Acrobatics]]
* [[Deception]]
* [[Perception]]
* [[Performance]]
* [[Persuasion]]
* [[Sleight of Hand]] (x2)
* [[Stealth]] (x2)}}


'''[[Blighted Village]]'''
=== Unlockable bonuses ===
* Deliver the final blow to the goblin [[Fezzerk]]
The following bonuses and actions are unlockable through certain decisions in Astarion's companion quest:
* Give him [[Necromancy of Thay]].
{{hlist|
* Extort [[Barcus Wroot]] after rescuing him.
* {{SAI|Ascendant Bite}}
* {{SAI|Misty Escape (Vampire Ascendant)|Misty Escape}}}}
* {{SAI|Vampire Ascendant}}


'''[[The Risen Road]]'''
== History ==
* Tell the merchant [[Cyrel]] that you'll take the supplies
* Pass the check to order [[Flind]], the Gnoll Warlord, to feast on other Gnoll
* Obey and eliminate [[Rugan]] when asked by [[Zarys]]
* Speak to the artist and call him a slave


'''[[Goblin Camp]]'''
=== Pre-Vampirism ===
* Deceive the goblins, say 'you can't be serious', then fling poo at them
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, {{CharLink|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.
* Say 'Boo' to [[Volo]] as he performs
* Tell [[Tracker Grikka]] (or another goblin NPC) that you will "get answers for them" when discussing their prisoners.
* Tell Torturer [[Spike]] in the goblin camp that you will torture the prisoner
* Tell [[Priestess Gut]] in the goblin camp that you're here to kill her
* Remove the ring from [[Crusher]]'s foot after you kneel in front of him.
* Agree to [[Abdirak]]'s endure teachings on Loviatar's love.
* Turn down the druid [[Halsin]]'s request to help the grove in favor of saving yourself first.


'''[[Crèche Y'llek]]'''
=== Life as Cazador's Spawn ===
* When convincing [[Varsh Ko'kuu]] to give you the Githyanki egg, tell him you will use it for an omelette ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}}) or sell it ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
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.
* Ask the Inquisitor how he knows so much about you ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
* Ask the Inquisitor what you'll get in return for producing the weapon ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})


'''[[Underdark]]'''
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.
* Tell [[BOOOAL]] he is a fake god, tell him you are going to kill him and take his power
* Tell [[Spaw]] "Sure, I can handle those deurgar nearby."
* Tell [[Glut]] you will kill [[Spaw]] for him
* Tell [[Glut]] "I'll have no part of this" when asked to eliminate [[Spaw]].
* Ask Baelen for compensation before giving him a [[Misty Step]] scroll for escaping the Bibberbang field.
* Succeed the [[Athletics]] check and push Corsair Greymoon off of the skiff on your first voyage to [[Grymforge]].


'''[[Grymforge]]'''
== Involvement ==
* Ask [[Ward Magmar]] how to get a slave of your own.
[[File:Astarion Icon.png|right|125px]]
* When talking to [[Ward Magmar]] about traveling to [[Moonrise Towers]], choose "Moonrise Tower holds the answers we need".
{{Hatnote|See main article: [[The Pale Elf]]}}
* After finding [[Philomeen]], talk to Lunkbug and mention she wants Laridda to move on.
''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.
* After rescuing [[Nere]], tell him to finish the slaves, or choose to say nothing.


'''Camp/Conversation'''
=== Act One ===
* In camp on the first night, tell [[Shadowheart]] to remain cautious
Astarion begins the story in Act One on the ravaged beach by the crashed nautiloid, where he beckons the player character over to assist him in fighting an [[Intellect Devourer]] that is in the bushes. It however becomes apparent that there is no intellect devourer, just a [[Boar]]. And depending on the player character's perception, Astarion will either pull a knife on the player or tackle them down to the ground with the knife at their throat while they are distracted, believing that the player character was in league with the mind flayers on the ship as he saw them walking freely and speaking with the mind flayers while he was tadpoled and trapped in a pod. Astarion will demand answers about what happened on the ship from the player character, who can explain the reality of the situation to him, and Astarion will then back off, apologize for the interaction, and introduce himself. It is after this where he can be recruited as a party member and his companion quest, {{Quest|The Pale Elf}}, is added to the journal.
* Let him bite you
* Tell him you trust him after he reveals to you that he is a vampire
* Tell the party that Astarion will remain in the party because you trust him when it is revealed to them he is a vampire, or tell the party that if they don't like [having a vampire in the party], that they can leave
* When he asks whose blood you'd hypothetically drink, choose "Yours, of course", "Karlach" or "Shadowheart"
* Decline [[Raphael]]'s offer to remove the tadpole
* Tell him that you are not the devil's plaything in regards to Raphael's offer
* After asking about [[Cazador]], tell him that you have his back as long as he has yours
* Feed the [[Owlbear Cub]] when it arrives at the [[Campsite|Camp]]
* Pet the [[Owlbear Cub]] in your camp
* Side with [[Karlach]] during [[Wyll]]'s confrontation with her
* After he asks you to describe his beauty, choose "Is that all you want? Shallow praise?"
==== Act Two ====
'''[[Last Light Inn]]'''
* Tell [[Jaheira]] that you are here on holiday
* Help [[Mol]] win the game against [[Raphael]] using the Sleight of Hand, Bard, or Wizard options
* Tell His Majesty that you wanted to admire him up close, and then quietly admire him
* Decline [[Jaheira]]'s wine
* Tell [[Isobel]] you should "go with the winged freak" after Flaming Fist [[Marcus]] arrives
* As [[The Dark Urge]], tell [[Isobel]] that you have the urge to kill her, then deny the urge and ask her to forgive you


'''[[Shadowed Battlefield]]'''
A few nights into adventuring, the player character will wake up in the middle of the night to see Astarion hunched over them, preparing to bite their neck. Astarion will stop and try and explain himself, but the player character successfully deduces that he is a vampire. If the player allows Astarion to live after this reveal instead of killing him, he will then ask the player character if they are willing to let him drink some blood to gain his full strength. If the player character refuses, he stalks off into the night to hunt for animals. But if the player character accepts, Astarion will then lay the player character down and begin to drink blood from their neck. The player character must either persuade or shove him off to end the feeding. If unsuccessful, the player character will die and must be revived. But if the player character succeeds, Astarion will stop feeding and thank the player profusely for helping him.  
* Tell the drider that they are amazing, after watching them berate a goblin who "fed the shadows."
* Convince the drider through deception to give you the lantern
* Convince the drider through deception to walk into the shadows
* If travelling with the convoy when it is ambushed, choose to protect the convoy and maintain your cover as a True Soul.
* Tell [[Arabella]] her parents are dead


'''[[House in Deep Shadows]]'''
The morning following either the attempted or successful feeding, the player character can talk to Astarion about a variety of topics. He will divulge his past, revealing that he is a [[Vampire spawn]] sired by the vampire lord {{CharLink|Cazador Szarr}} over 200 years prior in [[Baldur's Gate]]. It was then that he had handed down a ruling as a magistrate that a group of local [[Gur]] people took issue with. They attacked him, beating him until he was near death in the street. Cazador Szarr approached him, offering him a second chance at life, which Astarion took in a moment of desperation. Cazador then turned Astarion into his vampire spawn and slave. Astarion will also explain how vampire spawn work, including how they are subservient to the vampires who created them, and how they have all of the weaknesses of a full vampire but few of their powers. One of these weaknesses includes the hypersensitivity to the sun, which Astarion no longer has since the nautiloid crash. He will speculate to the player that the tadpole has given him immunity to the sunlight and to Cazador's compulsion. It is also during this conversation that the player character can discuss how Astarion will feed in the future. They can either agree to let him feed on the player character, let him feed on humanoid enemies, or relegate him to feeding on animals.
* Beat [[Oliver]] at hide-and-seek without being spotted


'''[[Reithwin Tollhouse]]'''
In the [[Sunlit Wetlands]] (or [[Putrid Bog]],) the party can encounter a Gur monster hunter named {{CharLink|Gandrel}}. If it has been revealed that Astarion is a vampire already, Gandrel will explain that he is looking for a vampire spawn named Astarion on behalf of his tribe, which will make Astarion visibly paranoid. He will argue with Gandrel and insult him, and will want to kill him in an act of self-preservation. The player can either let Astarion reveal himself and attack Gandrel or encourage Astarion to let it go, leaving Gandrel alive. If it has not been revealed to the party that Astarion is a vampire, Gandrel will not mention Astarion by name and will instead simply say he is looking for a vampire spawn. Astarion may kill Gandrel unprompted in this scenario if he is not talked down while agitated. The player character can also turn Astarion in to Gandrel, which will result in him leaving the party permanently.
* Persuade [[Gerringothe Thorm]] that there's no one to oversee her.
* Deceive [[Gerringothe Thorm]] to make her believe she is released and all gold is hers


'''[[House of Healing]]'''
=== Act Two ===
* Deceive the Sisters into killing each other
In Act Two, Astarion will begin to ponder the meaning of the markings carved into his back by Cazador long ago. If his approval with the player character is high enough or if he is romanced, he will reveal the scars to them and the player character can possibly identify them as Infernal markings. If the player character does not identify them, Astarion will eventually come to the conclusion on his own that the scars are written in Infernal by feeling them. Either way, he will say that he wants to discuss the subject with {{CharLink|Raphael}}, as he believes he would be able to explain the scars to him.
* Deceive [[Malus Thorm]] into killing himself
'''The Waning Moon'''
* Drink with [[Thisobald Thorm]] and tell him stories


'''[[Moonrise Towers]]'''
When talking to Raphael at the [[Last Light Inn]], Raphael will point out Astarion and say that he senses he has something to talk to him about. Astarion will then speak up and confirm this fact. If Astarion has not revealed his scars, Raphael will strip him in front of the party and force him to show his scars before continuing the conversation about Astarion's ask. If Astarion has already revealed his scars to the player character, Raphael will not strip Astarion of his clothes and instead goes right to thinking about Astarion's request. Raphael says he believes that he can help translate and explain his scars, but will need to think of something that Astarion can do for him first. He then departs, leaving Astarion to wait until they meet again.
* Sever the connection between [[Linsella]] and [[Barnabus]]
* Tell [[Araj Oblodra]] that Astarion is his own person
* At Araj Oblodra's offer, tell Astarion not to do anything he doesn't want to ({{Approval|Astarion|+5}})
* Kill [[Fezzerk]] without combat (with dialogue choice) after ordered by [[Ketheric Thorm]]
* Ask Disciple Z'rell to show something real about what the Absolute has give her
* Tell [[Ketheric Thorm]] that seeing your enemies cowed never gets old.


'''[[Gauntlet of Shar]]'''
Astarion will encounter Raphael again in front of the [[Grand Mausoleum]], where Raphael will state that he has thought of a way for Astarion to pay him for his services. Raphael requests that Astarion and the party kill an old enemy of his, the orthon {{CharLink|Yurgir}}, and if they do this, he will interpret Astarion's Infernal scars.
* Persuade [[Balthazar]] to give you the bell to summon [[Flesh]]
* Tell him his scars must have hurt after the initial conversation with [[Raphael]] ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
* Kill [[Yurgir]] and talk to Raphael about it, then promise Astarion you'll help him kill [[Cazador]]
* Tell him it's all part of the plan when he berates you for persuading [[Yurgir]] to let you look for something to help him out of his contract with [[Raphael]] ({{Approval|Astarion|+1}})
* Persuade [[Yurgir]] to murder his [[Merregon_Legionnaire|Merregon]] followers, his displacer beast, and himself ({{Approval|Astarion|+8}})


'''Camp/Conversation'''
After Yurgir is slayed as per Raphael's request, Raphael will come to the [[Campsite]] and interpret Astarion's scars for him. He reveals that his scars are a part of a legal contract that Cazador Szarr made with [[Mephistopheles]], and the scars bind him to the Rite of Profane Ascension. It is through this ritual where Cazador must sacrifice the souls of all of his vampiric spawn, including Astarion to ascend to an existence where he will become a new type of being, the Vampire Ascendant. The Vampire Ascendant will gain a new set of powers and lose all vampiric weaknesses, including the sensitivity to sunlight. However, the rite cannot be performed if any of the carriers of the scars are missing, and so Cazador cannot complete it while Astarion is gone. Astarion knows that Cazador will now never stop hunting him, and will ask the player character to join him in taking the fight to Cazador in Baldur's Gate.
* After learning about his scars, let him that of course you'll help.


==== Act Three ====
On the road to Baldur's Gate, Astarion will ponder his options that he has after arriving in the city. He will tell the player character that if they are to find Cazador, they should try and find his "siblings, aka Cazador's other vampiric spawn. He states that they will likely be found in the taverns and flophouses of the city, looking for prey for Cazador as per their orders. Astarion will also speculate about his ability to possibly usurp the rite of profane ascension, so that he may gain the power from the ritual instead of Cazador.  
'''[[Rivington]]'''
* Volunteer [[Lae'zel]] (or perhaps any companion) to Dribbles' show
* Give Yenna coins or food
* Resist the madness when accepting the monk's curse after delivering his amulet
* Answer [[Zethino]]'s third question with "Most things fear him, actually."
* Agree with Astarion that Ulma's children already dead when talking with Ulma in Gur Camp.


'''[[Wyrm's Crossing]]'''
=== Act Three ===
* Accept the [[Deal with the Gnomes]] quest from [[Manip Falcäo]]
In [[Rivington]], Astarion and the party may encounter {{CharLink|Ulma}} and the other members of the local Gur tribe. Ulma will recognize Astarion and reveal him as one of the vampire spawn who stole their children away in the night under Cazador's orders. She will offer Astarion a chance at redemption, asking him to help save their children from Cazador's clutches and bring them back home. If Astarion and the party agree to help, this will open the quest {{Quest|Investigate Cazador's Palace}}. If Astarion and the party refuse to help, Ulma and the other members of the Gur tribe will become hostile.
* Tell Adventurer Drin in [[Fraygo's Flophouse]] that "'Adventurer' means nothing here anymore."
* Pass the Investigation check to find the body in [[Fraygo's Flophouse]] during [[Solve the Open Hand Temple Murders]] questline.


Later on, in [[Fraygo's Flophouse]], Astarion will encounter two of his "siblings, {{CharLink|Dalyria}} and {{CharLink|Petras}}. Both of them are discussing Cazador's ritual, believing it to be a ritual that will set all of them free. Astarion will interrupt them and call them foolish for believing Cazador's lies, and he will demand to know where the ritual is occurring. Dalyria and Petras will then reveal that the ritual is happening in a secret defiled chapel underneath Cazador's Palace in the [[Upper City]] before returning back to Cazador. Astarion will then continue to ponder if he can usurp the ritual for himself.


Upon reaching the [[Lower City]], some of Astarion's other "siblings," {{CharLink|Leon}}, {{CharLink|Aurelia}}, {{CharLink|Violet}}, and {{CharLink|Yousen}}, will come to the party's camp in the night to try and capture Astarion. Astarion will attempt to sway them to his side, lying to them and saying that if he controls the ritual, they can all name him their new master and they will be set free. The player character can intervene and reveal the truth, but either way, Cazador's compulsion takes control of the spawn and they will become hostile. If Astarion is downed in combat, he will be taken to Cazador's Palace and will need to be rescued. But if the spawn are defeated, Astarion will remain with the party and will emphasize the need to find Cazador.


}}
After finding and entering Cazador's Palace through a side entrance protected by charmed guards, Astarion finds out that the ritual is already underway, and he presumes that the way to the ritual will be through the ballroom. However, the ballroom is sealed by an [[Arcane Lock (Condition)]] spell that will only open if a key is inserted and a set of words are spoken to it. Astarion then concludes that {{CharLink|Godey}}, one of Cazador's servants, has the key, and he suggests that the party finds him along with something that will help the party discover the passphrase. After obtaining the {{MdRarityItem|Szarr Family Ring}} from Godey and the {{MdRarityItem|Kozakuran Dictionary}} from one of Cazador's guest rooms, Astarion and the party can proceed into the ballroom where they encounter a multitude of [[Werewolf|lycanthropes]], [[Wolf|wolves]], [[Bat|bats]], and [[Rat|rats]]. The creatures wish to turn Astarion into Cazador to gain favor with him and will become hostile. After defeating them, Astarion and the party can proceed to Cazador's study, where nearby they will find a lift.


===Disapproval===
Once Astarion and the party take the lift, it will descend into [[Cazador's Dungeon]], which was kept secret from all in the palace, including Astarion. It is in the dungeon that Astarion and the party will encounter a large number of people being held in prison cells. One of the prisoners, a man named {{CharLink|Sebastian}}, will recognize Astarion and speak up. He will say that he remembers Astarion luring him back to the palace, where he was then turned into a vampire spawn by Cazador alongside many others in the cells. In another cell, {{CharLink|Chessa}}, one of the Gur children, will also recognize Astarion and speak of how Astarion and the other spawn kidnapped them from their camp and brought them to the palace where Cazador turned them to spawn. Astarion will then recall that the people in the cells are his previous victims that he brought to Cazador, either through lure or capture, but he thought they were long dead as Cazador told them he was feeding on those they brought back. It is after meeting the people in the cells and seeing how they are marked with the same Infernal runes as himself that Astarion realizes that Cazador intends to sacrifice not just him and his siblings, but the 7,000 souls they brought back to him under his command. Astarion starts to understand the true scope of the Rite of Profane Ascension and begins to struggle with his previous plans of trying to usurp the ritual.
Astarion dislikes displays of weakness and does not like acts of kindness or charity that offer no reward. He disapproves when the player tries to reign him in or restrict him in some way.


The following story and dialogue choices will cause Astarion to lose [[approval]].
After leaving the main part of the dungeon, Astarion and the party will confront Cazador in his lair where the ritual is being prepared. Cazador will gain control of Astarion through blood magic during the confrontation and force him into the ritual, and combat will begin. If Astarion is not rescued, Cazador will ascend and Astarion will be killed. But if Astarion is saved from the ritual, he will join combat.
{{SpoilerBox|
==== Act One ====
'''[[Druid Grove]]'''
* Agree to help the Tieflings for Wyll
* Tell Arabella's mother that the druids are overreacting
* Persuade Kagha to free Arabella
* Swear to take the Wyvern Poison
* Persuade Kagha to fight against the Shadow Druids


'''[[Sunlit Wetlands]]'''
When Cazador is eventually defeated and attempts to retreat to his sarcophagus to regenerate, Astarion will rip him away from it and confront him once and for all. It is here that the player character must either choose to talk Astarion down from usurping the Rite of Profane Ascension or choose to assist him in completing the Rite of Profane Ascension for himself. Either choice and its outcome will complete {{Quest|The Pale Elf}}.
* Reveal his identity to the Gur
* Disagree with Auntie Ethel and tell her you believe Mayrina is in trouble


'''[[Owlbear Nest]]'''
=== Endings ===
* When Shadowheart asks you not to take the items from the Selunite shrine, say "if you insist"


'''[[Zhentarim Hideout]]'''
==== Zombie Astarion ====
* Purchase the artist at the Zhentarim Hideout
If he was given to the [[Gur]] in Act One ''or'' the party failed to free him during the Cazador fight, Astarion is transformed into a [[zombie]] with red skin, exposed bones, and all of his defining physical traits gone. Carrying Zombie Astarion back to camp and casting {{SAI|Revivify}} on him turns him into a [[Camp followers|camp follower]] with the same tent and idle animations as his living self; however, he cannot be talked to or re-recruited, and he will not appear in the [[Epilogue]].


'''[[Crèche Y'llek]]'''
==== Life as a spawn vigilante ====
* When convincing [[Varsh Ko'kuu]] to give you the Githyanki egg, tell him you will raise it as your own or find a more forgiving creche ({{Approval|Astarion|-1}})


'''[[Grymforge]]'''
If the party stopped the ritual peacefully by persuading him to be better than Cazador or by euthanizing his trapped "siblings" during the battle, Astarion's sunlight vulnerability spontaneously returns to him a few minutes after defeating the Netherbrain, ending the hope that his immunity from the tadpole might be permanent. After quickly saying goodbye he is forced to run away and find shade as another companion calls out to him, but the narrator reassures the player character that he will be safe. Back to a normal vampire spawn, Astarion continues adventuring on his own as a nighttime assassin but a heroic one who only kills "the right people" that deserve it. Instead of grieving over his inability to be in the sun, he develops a renewed sense of self, accepting the dark as a part of him and being driven by his newfound inspiration of hope rather than fear.
* Use [[Persuasion]] to convince Skickpit you're willing to kill his slavers.
* Stand up for the deep gnome slaves when they're threatened by [[Nere]] once he's freed.
* Convince [[Elder Brithvar]] to free the deep gnomes after the fight with [[Nere]].


'''Camp/Conversations'''
If spawn Astarion is romanced, the player character can join him in these adventures and explore [[Faerûn]] with him. At the reunion party, he happily encourages the player character to mingle with their old friends and check in on their wellbeing, and he reaffirms to the player character that he loves them and will always be there for them.
* Forbid him to drink blood from other people.
* Give Gale [[Necromancy of Thay]] or destroy it.
* Reject him during the Party.
*<nowiki> Say "He's only a cambion, we can handle him" after you first meet with [Raphael]] (Note: this dialogue option only appears if you are a </nowiki>[[Warlock]])
* Letting [[Volo]] follow through with his attempt to remove the parasite


==== Act Two ====
If an origin {{CharLink|Karlach}} romanced Astarion, he instead offers to join her in [[Avernus]]. If a spawn origin Astarion romanced Karlach, however, he cannot convince her to go to Avernus because he's forced to run away from the sunlight before her ending cutscene, and she dies while Astarion adventures alone.
* Free [[Dolly Dolly Dolly|Dolly]] from the [[Moonlantern]] carried by [[Kar'niss]]


'''[[Ruined Battlefield]]'''
==== Life as a vampire spawn leader ====
* Tell [[Harper Lassandra]] that you can aid in traversing the darkness (Wizard only)
If Astarion is romanced and the vampire spawn in the dungeon were released to the [[Underdark]], he and the player character can instead choose to go find the spawn and help them adjust to their new lives. Both of them will act as leaders alongside Astarion's "siblings."


'''[[Last Light Inn]]'''
Astarion can also become a vampire spawn leader alone and without the player character, though this requires the player character to suggest that they find the spawn in the Underdark but then break up shortly after. Astarion then goes to the Underdark alone and acts as a leader for the vampire spawn.
* Drink the wine when talking to [[Jaheira]] inside
* Warn [[Isobel]] that [[Marcus]] plans to kidnap her


'''[[Moonrise Towers]]'''
==== Life as a vampire lord ====
* Convince Astarion to drink the blood of [[Araj Oblodra]].
* Offer [[Fezzerk]] a fair fight.
* Tell the guards to release [[Fezzerk]].
* Give up all your gold to [[Gerringothe Thorm]].


'''[[Gauntlet of Shar]]'''
If the party allowed Astarion to complete the ritual, Astarion takes over the [[Szarr Palace]] as his own and becomes an ascended vampire lord, rising in status and power in Baldur's Gate. When spoken to at the Reunion Party, Astarion brags about his rising status as the city's "puppet-master" and generally looks down upon the player character. He can be challenged on his new behavior and compared to Cazador, but Astarion brushes off these callouts.
* Talk to [[Yurgir]] the Orthon instead of attacking immediately ({{Approval|Astarion|-2}})
* Persuading [[Yurgir]] to let you search the place for him ({{Approval|Astarion|-2}})
* Agree to peace with the rats after interacting with the broken effigy.


'''[[Mind Flayer Colony]]'''
If romanced and turned into a vampire spawn, Astarion asks the player character to talk with the other companions at the Reunion Party, gather information, and share it with him later while he stays behind and drinks wine. He is surprised to hear that the others are somehow succeeding in life without his supervision, but he is uninterested to engage in conversation with them himself. If romanced as a [[Mind flayers|mind flayer]], the player character is simply an ally to Astarion, as they can't be turned into a spawn, but his Reunion Party dialogue remains the same as if they were one. If an origin Karlach romanced Astarion, she is unable to be turned into a vampire spawn because of her engine running hot, so he breaks up with her during their next Long Rest.
* Use the Neural Apparatus to release everyone in the Tadpoling Centre.
}}


===Romance===
However, there are a few ways for Astarion to end up as a vampire lord without taking over the palace. Like all other player characters, an ascended origin Astarion has the option to go to Avernus with Karlach in any relationship status, abandoning the vampire lord's life completely to fight demons by her side instead. Additionally, if an origin Karlach romancing Astarion does not rest between fighting Cazador and the Netherbrain (thus skipping the breakup scene entirely), he instead demands to bring her to Avernus himself.
: ''{{icon|Prerequisite_Icon.png|24px}}{{color|#c9b500|Players should be aware that Astarion's romance and conversations in general hold mentions of and allusions to various types of abuse, manipulation, and sexual assault.}}


The following section explains Astarion's romance.
==== Life still as Cazador's spawn ====
{{RomanceBox|hide=1|
If Astarion's personal quest is not completed at the end of the story and Cazador is still alive, he loses his ability to walk in the sun and is forced to go into hiding to avoid being found, punished, and controlled by Cazador again. He is relegated to the sewers and other areas of darkness during the day, and he returns to feeding on animals such as rats. At the Reunion Party, Astarion laments to the player character about the life he has to live, and the player character can choose there to promise to help him defeat Cazador for good, which gives him hope.
*After the cutscene of Astarion sneaking away at night triggers, the player can find an exsanguinated boar at the bridge before the [[Blighted Village]], to the far right path of the signpost saying 'Moonhaven' (north of the village), or just after the dialogue with Auntie Ethel at the entrance of Sunlit Wetlands (south of the village). The following long rest, the player will wake up to Astarion trying to drink their blood. He will approve of the player saying they trust him, and further approve of them letting him drink their blood. Note that if the player doesn't successfully stop him the '''second''' time the choice is presented, the player will die. They can simply be revived using a revivify scroll later. Note that players do not need to be aware Astarion is a vampire to sleep with him later on; not triggering this scene will not affect the romance.


*Getting a substantial lead, either the location of the Githyanki Crèche from [[Zorru]], Priestess Gut from [[Sazza]], or learning about Halsin's possible whereabouts from [[Nettie]], will trigger a scene with him later in camp when you talk to him. He remarks how he likes the player, and the player can respond in a flirtatious manner. No approval changes from any options. Note that you may want to wait to trigger this scene till later since the dialogue makes it sound as if he and the player have been travelling together for a while, but that's preference
If Astarion reconciled with the Gur, however, they join forces against Cazador and easily kill him sometime after the events of the game, and Astarion is living a free but secluded life as a spawn by the time of the Reunion Party.


*A scene can be triggered at camp where Astarion says he has fed on a bear, the following conversation nets no approval changes but he makes a few playful quips to the player and they can do so in turn. The parameters for trigger this is unclear at the moment (possibly average-good relationship), but you need to know he is a vampire.
== Quest Rewards ==
''If Cazador is defeated:''
*{{MdRarityItem|High Security Vault n°3 Key}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Rhapsody}} as loot from Cazador
*{{MdRarityItem|Szarr Family Ring}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Woe}} as loot from Cazador (unless the ritual was stopped by force and Astarion left the party, in which case he destroys Woe)
''If Cazador is defeated and Astarion does not complete the Rite of Profane Ascension:''
*Aid of {{CharLink|Ulma}} and the [[Gur]] for {{Quest|Gather Your Allies}}
''If Cazador is defeated and Astarion completes the Rite of Profane Ascension:''
*Aid of Astarion's servants of the night for {{Quest|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.


*When you come across [[Gandrel]], the Gur monster hunter found to the left of the [[Riverside Teahouse]], you can progress your relationship with Astarion by allowing him to kill the Gur. In order to trigger this dialogue option, you need to have found out that Astarion is a vampire beforehand. In conversation with Gandrel, ask him what he is hunting, then choose "Only a spawn? Pity. Not like he's a real vampire." The first and second subsequent choices will trigger Astarion to reveal himself to the Gur and a fight will ensue.) After this scene plays out, you can speak to Astarion, who will then invite the player to have sex with him.  
== Interactions & Scenes ==
=== 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.


*A similar scene with the same outcomes should trigger when the player reaches Good approval with Astarion, even without dealing with the Gur{{verify}}
==== Act One ====
{{div col}}
* [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]
{{div col end}}
==== Act Two ====
{{div col}}
* [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)]
{{div col end}}
==== Act Three ====
{{div col}}
* [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]
{{div col end}}


*Once you have had the conversation with Astarion where he invites the player to spend the night with him, the scene itself will trigger on the next long rest. If you choose dialogue options that indicate distrust, he will become upset and leave{{verify}}. You can gain approval with him by "playfully offering your neck." The player will wake the next morning to Astarion standing shirtless with his back turned to them; scars visible. The player can make a playful quip before asking him about the scars on his back. You can pass an Arcana check to determine the language the scars are written in (Infernal), but there are no approval changes.
=== 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.


*As early as [[Chapter One]], a scene can trigger where Astarion is looking into a mirror. The player may compliment him on anything to effectively “flirt” with him, aside from his moles and smile lines (this will lead to him being upset and leaving). This does not affect approval.
==== Act One ====
{{div col}}
* [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)
{{div col end}}
==== Act Two ====
{{div col}}
* [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)]
{{div col end}}
==== Act Three ====
{{div col}}
* [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)
{{div col end}}


*At either the goblin or the Tiefling party, the player can agree to sleep with Astarion afterwards. If this is the first time the player sleeps with him, it will trigger the cutscene mentioned above.  
=== Speak with Dead ===
{{Dialogue start}}
'''(if not introduced) Party member:''' Who are you?
* '''Astarion:''' Astarion... vampire spawn...
'''(if never recruited) Party member:''' What happened to you?
* '''Astarion:''' Taken by mind flayers... killed after crash...
'''Party member:''' Where are you from?
* '''Astarion:''' Baldur's Gate...
'''Party member:''' What was your profession?
* '''Astarion:''' Met people... Talked. Flirted. Lured back for my master...
'''Party member:''' Who was your master?
* '''Astarion:''' Cazador Szarr... ancient vampire... bastard...
** '''Party member:''' Where can I find Cazador?
*** '''Astarion:''' In Baldur's Gate... his palace...
** '''Party member:''' How many people have you killed?
*** '''Astarion:''' Some... but never to feed... only brought master living victims...
'''Party member:''' How old are you?
* '''Astarion:''' Two hundred years?... hard to rememeber...
'''(if became a Vampire Lord) Party member:''' What were you planning to do as a Vampire Lord?
* '''Astarion:''' Rule this place... finally be free...
'''(if handed over to the Gur) Party member:''' How did you end up in the ritual?
* '''Astarion:''' Brought to Gur hunter camp... Cazador found them... took me...
'''Party member:''' Cazador's dead. I just wanted you to know.
* '''Astarion:''' Not a question... but ''good...''
{{Dialogue end}}


*If the player has already slept with Astarion, then talking with Astarion at the party will result in a much more familiar conversation, where he can even tell the player he loves them, though he is just using shallow charm (no approval changes). Agreeing to sleep with him again will result in the dialogue choice "Astarion" becoming available once you head to bed, and the player then seeks him out. There is no additional sex scene, it's simply implied.
=== 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:


<big>'''''Heavy Chapter 2 and 3 Spoilers Ahead'''''
==== Act One ====
</big>
{{div_col}}
{{SpoilerBox|
* {{CharLink|Abdirak}}
Heading into Chapter 2 and 3, it is important to note that some choices you make, Astarion will disapprove of, but they may be for the 'better'. Disapproval of an action will not lock you out of romance scenes, and he may even change his outlook on your actions later on.
* {{CharLink|Auntie Ethel}}
* {{CharLink|Gandrel}}
* {{CharLink|Gimblebock}}
{{div_col_end}}
==== Act Two ====
{{div_col}}
* {{CharLink|Araj Oblodra}}
* {{CharLink|Raphael}}
* {{CharLink|Yurgir}}
{{div_col_end}}
==== Act Three ====
{{div_col}}
* {{CharLink|Aurelia}}
* {{CharLink|Cazador}}
* {{CharLink|Chessa}}
* {{CharLink|Dalyria}}
* {{CharLink|Leon}}
* {{CharLink|Nym Orlith}}
* {{CharLink|Petras}}
* {{CharLink|Sebastian}}
* {{CharLink|Sorn Orlith}}
* {{CharLink|Ulma}}
* {{CharLink|Violet}}
* {{CharLink|Yousen}}
* {{CharLink|Zethino}}
{{div_col_end}}


*The next substantial scene with Astarion happens after the player goes to bed after talking to [[Araj Oblodra]] with Astarion in the party. She is a vendor located on the main floor of [[Moonrise Towers]]. Players can pick whichever option they feel suits how they want their relationship with Astarion to be. Picking options that manipulate Astarion into having sex with you simply for pleasure will be followed by a cutscene where Astarion breaks up with the player.
== Loot ==
Astarion can be killed and looted upon meeting, and he will drop the same loot as starting equipment.


A similar scene with the same outcomes will trigger if your approval with Astarion is maxed in Chapter 2, even if you don't talk to Araj
{{div col}}
 
*{{MdRarityItem|Alchemy Pouch}}
*Once the party successfully completes [[Kill Raphael's Old Enemy]], Raphael will inform Astarion about the nature of his scars and the player can then talk with Astarion about the information revealed. It is important to ponder how you want to proceed with this, as it will change Astarion's fate and the dynamic of his relationship with the player.
*{{MdRarityItem|Astarion's Eccentric Clothes}}
 
*{{MdRarityItem|Padded Armour|override_icon=Padded Armour (Astarion) Unfaded Icon.png|override_rarity=common|Astarion's Padded Armour}}
*At [[Circus of the Last Days]] there is a dryad, [[Zethino]], who will conduct a love test for the player for a fee. You can ask Astarion to take part in it and you will be transported to a woodsy area and asked questions about him. You may choose to respond however you wish, but choosing two or more from 'I don't think he's ever been happy.', 'He's happy right now, look at that smile!', 'Me', 'A nice, tasty rat.', and 'Sharp, wooden sticks.' will result in Astarion being upset. Note that picking more 'genuine' options 'Freedom', and 'Forever feeling like a slave to someone', will result in an 'Astarion Disapproves' message popping up, but are still considered correct answers.
*{{MdRarityItem|Tasteful Boots|override_icon=Generated_ARM_Camp_Shoes_Astarion_Unfaded.png|override_rarity=common|Astarions's Tasteful Boots}}
 
*{{MdRarityItem|Astarion's Underwear}}
*Once you have made it past out of the Shadow-Cursed Lands, the player can find Astarion's fellow spawn in [[Fraygo's Flophouse]] near the Southspan of Wyrm's Crossing waypoint. If the player did not interact with them, then long resting a couple times in the area should trigger a scene where they come talk to you at camp. The player is free to choose any responses they want, but may see disapproval pop up at certain choices. His siblings will attack the party, and afterwards he will talk to the player. Again, you may choose to respond however you feel. If you tell his siblings 'You can take him' when they come to camp at night, and then choose 'I wish they had','I panicked in the moment!', or fail the check for 'I was only teasing you.', '''Astarion will break up with you.'''
*{{MdRarityItem|Camp Supply Sack}}
 
*{{MdRarityItem|Dagger}}
*Once the player confronts Cazador, they may choose what outcome they want. They can convince Astarion to simply kill Cazador instead of performing the rite himself, or he can perform the rite and become a Vampire Ascendant. Note that if he goes through with the rite, everyone in the cells will die. An additional note: Astarion becoming the Vampire Ascendant will completely change how he acts towards everything, including the player. He will be more controlling and forceful, more stereotypical 'evil tyrant'. Some players may be uncomfortable with such a dynamic, so be sure to pick carefully.
*{{MdRarityItem|Grease Bottle}} x2
 
*{{MdRarityItem|Keychain}}
*After the conclusion of the rite, a scene with Astarion will be triggered depending on the outcome. If he went through with the rite, the player can tell him they would like to be a vampire like him, and he can and will turn the player into his spawn. The player is, as always, free to choose whatever options they want following, but becoming Astarion's spawn means you can no longer break up with him. The option is there to try, but he will not let you go. If you choose to spend one last night alive with him (become his vampire spawn and sleep with him), you will get the option to kick him in the balls when he tells you to get on your knees. Doing so will result in him permanently leaving the party.
*{{MdRarityItem|Leather Boots}}
 
*{{MdRarityItem|Potion of Healing}} x2
*If he did not go through with the rite, he will tell the player he would like to show them something outside the city, and take them to see his grave. You're free to choose any options you want, but note that accepting to sleep with him will result in an extra bit of dialogue where he tells the player he loves them.
*{{MdRarityItem|Scroll of Revivify}}
}}
*{{MdRarityItem|Shortbow}}
}}
{{div col end}}
 
==Trivia==
*Astarion is voiced by [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0627667/?ref_=tt_cl_t_4 Neil Newbon].


==Achievements==
{{Achievement|Just a Nibble}}


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery heights="250px" mode="packed">
<gallery heights="250">
File:Astarion-beta.png|Astarion's appearance pre-release.
File:Astarion Model.webp|Base model.
File:Astarion-ea.jpg|Astarion during ''Early Access''.
File:Astarion Model Camp.png|Camp model.
File:Astarion-promotional.webp|Astarion's promotional art.
File:Astarion Model Underwear.png|Underwear model.
Astarion Model.png|Astarion's model
File:Astarion Model Ascended.png|Ascended 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-ea.jpg|During ''Early Access''.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==External Links==
== Notes ==
{{notebegin}}
* Can be spoken to with {{SmallIcon|Speak with Dead Icon.png}} [[Speak with Dead]].
*If playing as a [[Gale]] origin, Astarion will describe Gale’s blood as tasting like bile and the option for the spawn to drink the player’s will not appear. Interestingly, Astarion can still bite a Gale origin during his first romance scene.
* 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.
{{noteend}}
 
==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]
{{NavCompanions|state=expanded}}


[[Category: Elves]]
[[Category:Humanoids]]
[[Category: Humanoids]]
[[Category:Undead]]
[[Category: Rogues]]
[[Category:Elves]]
[[Category: Companions]]
[[Category:Vampires]]
[[Category: Origins]]
[[Category:Origins]]
{{CharactersNavbox}}
[[Category:Companions]]
[[Category:Rogues]]
[[Category:Available to Speak with Dead]]
[[Category:Characters in Act One]]

Latest revision as of 11:25, 20 November 2024

Astarion Ancunín is an Origin Character and recruitable Companion with the Charlatan background. He is a High Elf and a Rogue first appearing during Act One.

A vampire spawn previously under the control of Cazador Szarr Cazador Szarr until being abducted by the nautiloid, Astarion is set on getting revenge on Cazador and becoming free no matter what. He can be first found west of the Nautiloid Wreck during Act One, where he can be recruited into the party as well as romanced by characters of any gender.


Portrait Astarion.png
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 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 sarcasm and cleverness. He is inspired when the player character gains access to areas or information by deceiving others, or when they avoid combat through persuasion or deception. The player character does not have to be "evil" to gain his approval, however — he approves when the player makes choices that help him, that support his independence and autonomy, that are understanding toward his past, and that help certain people and animals he is fond of.

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, the reclaiming of his autonomy, and his navigation of newly found freedom. 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[1] and has a medium build and sharp facial features. He has pallid skin with dark circles and bags under his crimson eyes, as well as smile lines around his mouth and a faint beauty mark on his right cheek. He also has jaw-length, curly silver hair styled with pomade and curls around his long pointed ears. He has a bite-mark scar on the right side of his neck from when his old master Cazador Szarr Cazador Szarr turned him into a vampire, and a myriad of scars carved by Cazador covering most of his back. When it comes to clothes, Astarion's choice in attire is usually on the fancier side, wearing an elaborate doublet, leather chaps and embroidered leather shoes when you recruit him. 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 background as a high elf magistrate and his time spent as a vampire spawn slave. Astarion is charming, eloquent, cunning, witty, sarcastic, and practical. But, 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 initially are his own autonomy, his own safety, and his revenge on Cazador, though he also prioritizes the party’s safety as a whole. 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 of the game is very fear-motivated and has a low self-worth, despite his confident and arrogant persona. He will attempt to manipulate others with sex and faux-romance to get them on his side so that he has protection from Cazador and other powerful enemies, as he believes that his sexual ability is his main attraction, and sex 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 harming 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. If Astarion's fears, beliefs, and unhealthy behaviors are contested, he will begin to deconstruct his cynical worldview, learning to stand up for himself, show empathy toward others, reconcile with those he has hurt in the past, form genuine bonds with people he trusts, and start to heal from his trauma. But, if Astarion is led down a path where his behaviors, fears, and beliefs are validated and encouraged, he will instead become a fearful, power-hungry, and abusive man who continues to repress his trauma and harm others.

Gameplay[edit | edit source]

Astarion's default class is rogue. His default high elf cantrip is Fire Bolt Fire Bolt, but if selected as an origin, the player can choose any high elf cantrip they wish. As a vampire spawn he has access to a unique Vampire Bite Vampire Bite, however this action does not appear as a companion until after the party finds out about his vampirism. If played as an origin, the ability becomes available after waking up from the Nautiloid crash.

Proficiencies[edit | edit source]

Save proficiencies

Unlockable bonuses[edit | edit source]

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

  • Vampire Ascendant Vampire Ascendant
  • 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 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.

    Involvement[edit | edit source]

    Astarion Icon.png
    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]

    Astarion begins the story in Act One on the ravaged beach by the crashed nautiloid, where he beckons the player character over to assist him in fighting an Intellect Devourer that is in the bushes. It however becomes apparent that there is no intellect devourer, just a Boar. And depending on the player character's perception, Astarion will either pull a knife on the player or tackle them down to the ground with the knife at their throat while they are distracted, believing that the player character was in league with the mind flayers on the ship as he saw them walking freely and speaking with the mind flayers while he was tadpoled and trapped in a pod. Astarion will demand answers about what happened on the ship from the player character, who can explain the reality of the situation to him, and Astarion will then back off, apologize for the interaction, and introduce himself. It is after this where he can be recruited as a party member and his companion quest, The Pale Elf The Pale Elf, is added to the journal.

    A few nights into adventuring, the player character will wake up in the middle of the night to see Astarion hunched over them, preparing to bite their neck. Astarion will stop and try and explain himself, but the player character successfully deduces that he is a vampire. If the player allows Astarion to live after this reveal instead of killing him, he will then ask the player character if they are willing to let him drink some blood to gain his full strength. If the player character refuses, he stalks off into the night to hunt for animals. But if the player character accepts, Astarion will then lay the player character down and begin to drink blood from their neck. The player character must either persuade or shove him off to end the feeding. If unsuccessful, the player character will die and must be revived. But if the player character succeeds, Astarion will stop feeding and thank the player profusely for helping him.

    The morning following either the attempted or successful feeding, the player character can talk to Astarion about a variety of topics. He will divulge his past, revealing that he is a Vampire spawn sired by the vampire lord Cazador Szarr Cazador Szarr over 200 years prior in Baldur's Gate. It was then that he had handed down a ruling as a magistrate that a group of local Gur people took issue with. They attacked him, beating him until he was near death in the street. Cazador Szarr approached him, offering him a second chance at life, which Astarion took in a moment of desperation. Cazador then turned Astarion into his vampire spawn and slave. Astarion will also explain how vampire spawn work, including how they are subservient to the vampires who created them, and how they have all of the weaknesses of a full vampire but few of their powers. One of these weaknesses includes the hypersensitivity to the sun, which Astarion no longer has since the nautiloid crash. He will speculate to the player that the tadpole has given him immunity to the sunlight and to Cazador's compulsion. It is also during this conversation that the player character can discuss how Astarion will feed in the future. They can either agree to let him feed on the player character, let him feed on humanoid enemies, or relegate him to feeding on animals.

    In the Sunlit Wetlands (or Putrid Bog,) the party can encounter a Gur monster hunter named Gandrel Gandrel. If it has been revealed that Astarion is a vampire already, Gandrel will explain that he is looking for a vampire spawn named Astarion on behalf of his tribe, which will make Astarion visibly paranoid. He will argue with Gandrel and insult him, and will want to kill him in an act of self-preservation. The player can either let Astarion reveal himself and attack Gandrel or encourage Astarion to let it go, leaving Gandrel alive. If it has not been revealed to the party that Astarion is a vampire, Gandrel will not mention Astarion by name and will instead simply say he is looking for a vampire spawn. Astarion may kill Gandrel unprompted in this scenario if he is not talked down while agitated. The player character can also turn Astarion in to Gandrel, which will result in him leaving the party permanently.

    Act Two[edit | edit source]

    In Act Two, Astarion will begin to ponder the meaning of the markings carved into his back by Cazador long ago. If his approval with the player character is high enough or if he is romanced, he will reveal the scars to them and the player character can possibly identify them as Infernal markings. If the player character does not identify them, Astarion will eventually come to the conclusion on his own that the scars are written in Infernal by feeling them. Either way, he will say that he wants to discuss the subject with Raphael Raphael, as he believes he would be able to explain the scars to him.

    When talking to Raphael at the Last Light Inn, Raphael will point out Astarion and say that he senses he has something to talk to him about. Astarion will then speak up and confirm this fact. If Astarion has not revealed his scars, Raphael will strip him in front of the party and force him to show his scars before continuing the conversation about Astarion's ask. If Astarion has already revealed his scars to the player character, Raphael will not strip Astarion of his clothes and instead goes right to thinking about Astarion's request. Raphael says he believes that he can help translate and explain his scars, but will need to think of something that Astarion can do for him first. He then departs, leaving Astarion to wait until they meet again.

    Astarion will encounter Raphael again in front of the Grand Mausoleum, where Raphael will state that he has thought of a way for Astarion to pay him for his services. Raphael requests that Astarion and the party kill an old enemy of his, the orthon Yurgir Yurgir, and if they do this, he will interpret Astarion's Infernal scars.

    After Yurgir is slayed as per Raphael's request, Raphael will come to the Campsite and interpret Astarion's scars for him. He reveals that his scars are a part of a legal contract that Cazador Szarr made with Mephistopheles, and the scars bind him to the Rite of Profane Ascension. It is through this ritual where Cazador must sacrifice the souls of all of his vampiric spawn, including Astarion to ascend to an existence where he will become a new type of being, the Vampire Ascendant. The Vampire Ascendant will gain a new set of powers and lose all vampiric weaknesses, including the sensitivity to sunlight. However, the rite cannot be performed if any of the carriers of the scars are missing, and so Cazador cannot complete it while Astarion is gone. Astarion knows that Cazador will now never stop hunting him, and will ask the player character to join him in taking the fight to Cazador in Baldur's Gate.

    On the road to Baldur's Gate, Astarion will ponder his options that he has after arriving in the city. He will tell the player character that if they are to find Cazador, they should try and find his "siblings, aka Cazador's other vampiric spawn. He states that they will likely be found in the taverns and flophouses of the city, looking for prey for Cazador as per their orders. Astarion will also speculate about his ability to possibly usurp the rite of profane ascension, so that he may gain the power from the ritual instead of Cazador.

    Act Three[edit | edit source]

    In Rivington, Astarion and the party may encounter Ulma Ulma and the other members of the local Gur tribe. Ulma will recognize Astarion and reveal him as one of the vampire spawn who stole their children away in the night under Cazador's orders. She will offer Astarion a chance at redemption, asking him to help save their children from Cazador's clutches and bring them back home. If Astarion and the party agree to help, this will open the quest Investigate Cazador's Palace Investigate Cazador's Palace. If Astarion and the party refuse to help, Ulma and the other members of the Gur tribe will become hostile.

    Later on, in Fraygo's Flophouse, Astarion will encounter two of his "siblings, Dalyria Dalyria and Petras Petras. Both of them are discussing Cazador's ritual, believing it to be a ritual that will set all of them free. Astarion will interrupt them and call them foolish for believing Cazador's lies, and he will demand to know where the ritual is occurring. Dalyria and Petras will then reveal that the ritual is happening in a secret defiled chapel underneath Cazador's Palace in the Upper City before returning back to Cazador. Astarion will then continue to ponder if he can usurp the ritual for himself.

    Upon reaching the Lower City, some of Astarion's other "siblings," Leon Leon, Aurelia Aurelia, Violet Violet, and Yousen Yousen, will come to the party's camp in the night to try and capture Astarion. Astarion will attempt to sway them to his side, lying to them and saying that if he controls the ritual, they can all name him their new master and they will be set free. The player character can intervene and reveal the truth, but either way, Cazador's compulsion takes control of the spawn and they will become hostile. If Astarion is downed in combat, he will be taken to Cazador's Palace and will need to be rescued. But if the spawn are defeated, Astarion will remain with the party and will emphasize the need to find Cazador.

    After finding and entering Cazador's Palace through a side entrance protected by charmed guards, Astarion finds out that the ritual is already underway, and he presumes that the way to the ritual will be through the ballroom. However, the ballroom is sealed by an Arcane Lock (Condition) spell that will only open if a key is inserted and a set of words are spoken to it. Astarion then concludes that Godey Godey, one of Cazador's servants, has the key, and he suggests that the party finds him along with something that will help the party discover the passphrase. After obtaining the Szarr Family Ring from Godey and the Kozakuran Dictionary from one of Cazador's guest rooms, Astarion and the party can proceed into the ballroom where they encounter a multitude of lycanthropes, wolves, bats, and rats. The creatures wish to turn Astarion into Cazador to gain favor with him and will become hostile. After defeating them, Astarion and the party can proceed to Cazador's study, where nearby they will find a lift.

    Once Astarion and the party take the lift, it will descend into Cazador's Dungeon, which was kept secret from all in the palace, including Astarion. It is in the dungeon that Astarion and the party will encounter a large number of people being held in prison cells. One of the prisoners, a man named Sebastian Sebastian, will recognize Astarion and speak up. He will say that he remembers Astarion luring him back to the palace, where he was then turned into a vampire spawn by Cazador alongside many others in the cells. In another cell, Chessa Chessa, one of the Gur children, will also recognize Astarion and speak of how Astarion and the other spawn kidnapped them from their camp and brought them to the palace where Cazador turned them to spawn. Astarion will then recall that the people in the cells are his previous victims that he brought to Cazador, either through lure or capture, but he thought they were long dead as Cazador told them he was feeding on those they brought back. It is after meeting the people in the cells and seeing how they are marked with the same Infernal runes as himself that Astarion realizes that Cazador intends to sacrifice not just him and his siblings, but the 7,000 souls they brought back to him under his command. Astarion starts to understand the true scope of the Rite of Profane Ascension and begins to struggle with his previous plans of trying to usurp the ritual.

    After leaving the main part of the dungeon, Astarion and the party will confront Cazador in his lair where the ritual is being prepared. Cazador will gain control of Astarion through blood magic during the confrontation and force him into the ritual, and combat will begin. If Astarion is not rescued, Cazador will ascend and Astarion will be killed. But if Astarion is saved from the ritual, he will join combat.

    When Cazador is eventually defeated and attempts to retreat to his sarcophagus to regenerate, Astarion will rip him away from it and confront him once and for all. It is here that the player character must either choose to talk Astarion down from usurping the Rite of Profane Ascension or choose to assist him in completing the Rite of Profane Ascension for himself. Either choice and its outcome will complete The Pale Elf The Pale Elf.

    Endings[edit | edit source]

    Zombie Astarion[edit | edit source]

    If he was given to the Gur in Act One or the party failed to free him during the Cazador fight, Astarion is transformed into a zombie with red skin, exposed bones, and all of his defining physical traits gone. Carrying Zombie Astarion back to camp and casting Revivify Revivify on him turns him into a camp follower with the same tent and idle animations as his living self; however, he cannot be talked to or re-recruited, and he will not appear in the Epilogue.

    Life as a spawn vigilante[edit | edit source]

    If the party stopped the ritual peacefully by persuading him to be better than Cazador or by euthanizing his trapped "siblings" during the battle, Astarion's sunlight vulnerability spontaneously returns to him a few minutes after defeating the Netherbrain, ending the hope that his immunity from the tadpole might be permanent. After quickly saying goodbye he is forced to run away and find shade as another companion calls out to him, but the narrator reassures the player character that he will be safe. Back to a normal vampire spawn, Astarion continues adventuring on his own as a nighttime assassin but a heroic one who only kills "the right people" that deserve it. Instead of grieving over his inability to be in the sun, he develops a renewed sense of self, accepting the dark as a part of him and being driven by his newfound inspiration of hope rather than fear.

    If spawn Astarion is romanced, the player character can join him in these adventures and explore Faerûn with him. At the reunion party, he happily encourages the player character to mingle with their old friends and check in on their wellbeing, and he reaffirms to the player character that he loves them and will always be there for them.

    If an origin Karlach Karlach romanced Astarion, he instead offers to join her in Avernus. If a spawn origin Astarion romanced Karlach, however, he cannot convince her to go to Avernus because he's forced to run away from the sunlight before her ending cutscene, and she dies while Astarion adventures alone.

    Life as a vampire spawn leader[edit | edit source]

    If Astarion is romanced and the vampire spawn in the dungeon were released to the Underdark, he and the player character can instead choose to go find the spawn and help them adjust to their new lives. Both of them will act as leaders alongside Astarion's "siblings."

    Astarion can also become a vampire spawn leader alone and without the player character, though this requires the player character to suggest that they find the spawn in the Underdark but then break up shortly after. Astarion then goes to the Underdark alone and acts as a leader for the vampire spawn.

    Life as a vampire lord[edit | edit source]

    If the party allowed Astarion to complete the ritual, Astarion takes over the Szarr Palace as his own and becomes an ascended vampire lord, rising in status and power in Baldur's Gate. When spoken to at the Reunion Party, Astarion brags about his rising status as the city's "puppet-master" and generally looks down upon the player character. He can be challenged on his new behavior and compared to Cazador, but Astarion brushes off these callouts.

    If romanced and turned into a vampire spawn, Astarion asks the player character to talk with the other companions at the Reunion Party, gather information, and share it with him later while he stays behind and drinks wine. He is surprised to hear that the others are somehow succeeding in life without his supervision, but he is uninterested to engage in conversation with them himself. If romanced as a mind flayer, the player character is simply an ally to Astarion, as they can't be turned into a spawn, but his Reunion Party dialogue remains the same as if they were one. If an origin Karlach romanced Astarion, she is unable to be turned into a vampire spawn because of her engine running hot, so he breaks up with her during their next Long Rest.

    However, there are a few ways for Astarion to end up as a vampire lord without taking over the palace. Like all other player characters, an ascended origin Astarion has the option to go to Avernus with Karlach in any relationship status, abandoning the vampire lord's life completely to fight demons by her side instead. Additionally, if an origin Karlach romancing Astarion does not rest between fighting Cazador and the Netherbrain (thus skipping the breakup scene entirely), he instead demands to bring her to Avernus himself.

    Life still as Cazador's spawn[edit | edit source]

    If Astarion's personal quest is not completed at the end of the story and Cazador is still alive, he loses his ability to walk in the sun and is forced to go into hiding to avoid being found, punished, and controlled by Cazador again. He is relegated to the sewers and other areas of darkness during the day, and he returns to feeding on animals such as rats. At the Reunion Party, Astarion laments to the player character about the life he has to live, and the player character can choose there to promise to help him defeat Cazador for good, which gives him hope.

    If Astarion reconciled with the Gur, however, they join forces against Cazador and easily kill him sometime after the events of the game, and Astarion is living a free but secluded life as a spawn by the time of the Reunion Party.

    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]

    Speak with Dead[edit | edit source]

    (if not introduced) Party member: Who are you?

    • Astarion: Astarion... vampire spawn...

    (if never recruited) Party member: What happened to you?

    • Astarion: Taken by mind flayers... killed after crash...

    Party member: Where are you from?

    • Astarion: Baldur's Gate...

    Party member: What was your profession?

    • Astarion: Met people... Talked. Flirted. Lured back for my master...

    Party member: Who was your master?

    • Astarion: Cazador Szarr... ancient vampire... bastard...
      • Party member: Where can I find Cazador?
        • Astarion: In Baldur's Gate... his palace...
      • Party member: How many people have you killed?
        • Astarion: Some... but never to feed... only brought master living victims...

    Party member: How old are you?

    • Astarion: Two hundred years?... hard to rememeber...

    (if became a Vampire Lord) Party member: What were you planning to do as a Vampire Lord?

    • Astarion: Rule this place... finally be free...

    (if handed over to the Gur) Party member: How did you end up in the ritual?

    • Astarion: Brought to Gur hunter camp... Cazador found them... took me...

    Party member: Cazador's dead. I just wanted you to know.

    • Astarion: Not a question... but good...

    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]

    Notes[edit | edit source]

    • Can be spoken to with Speak with Dead.
    • If playing as a Gale origin, Astarion will describe Gale’s blood as tasting like bile and the option for the spawn to drink the player’s will not appear. Interestingly, Astarion can still bite a Gale origin during his first romance scene.
    • 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]