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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
}}
}}
{{SpoilerWarning}}
{{CompanionTab|Astarion}}
{{Infobox character
| class = [[Rogue]]
| name = Astarion
| image = Astarion.png
| imagecaption = Game cover artwork
| imagesize = 0.85
| background = [[Charlatan]]
| race = [[High elf]]
| voice = Neil Newbon
| creator = Stephen Rooney
| full_name = Astarion Ancunín
| age = {{ublist|
* 39 years (turned)
* 239 years (current)}}
| hometown = [[Baldur's Gate]]
| role = [[Origin characters|Origin character]], [[Companions|companion]]}}


{{CharacterInfo
'''Astarion''' is an [[Origins|Origin]] character and a [[Companion|companion]] in ''Baldur's Gate 3''. He is a [[High Elf]] [[Rogue]] with the [[Charlatan]] background, specialising in [[Stealth]] and [[Sneak Attack|Sneak Attacks]]. He is portrayed by {{va|Neil Newbon}} and was created by Stephen Rooney.  
|title = Vampire Spawn
|name = Astarion Ancunín
|image= [[File:Astarion.png|350px]]
|STR=8
|DEX=17
|CON=14
|INT=13
|WIS=13
|CHA=10
|dex save=yes |int save=yes
|level=1
|race={{Race|High Elf}}
|type=Humanoid
|HP=10
|AC=11
|speed=9m / 30ft
|size=Medium
|weight=50kg / 100lbs
|proficiency=2
|initiative=+2
|passive = {{IconLink|Darkvision Icon.png|Darkvision (Passive Feature)|Darkvision|size=24}}, [[Fey Ancestry]]
|class = Rogue
|background=Charlatan
|location = [[Wilderness]]
|enemies = [[Cazador]]
|alt-name = In-game
|alt-image = [[File:Astarionheadshot.jpg|350px]]
}}
 
'''Astarion''' is an [[Origins|Origin]] character and [[companion]] in [[Baldur's Gate 3]]. He is an [[Elf]] [[Rogue]] with the [[Charlatan]] background.
 
Origin characters can be played as the main character, otherwise, they can be recruited as a [[companion]] early on.
 
{{Q|And to think I was ready to decorate the ground with your innards. Apologies.|Astarion, apologizing after a misunderstanding}}
 
== Gameplay==
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]].
 
===Proficiencies===
 
=====Equipment=====
*{{SimpleWeaponsProf}}, {{WeaponType|Hand Crossbows}}, {{WeaponType|Longswords}}, {{WeaponType|Rapiers}}, {{WeaponType|Shortswords}}
*{{LightArmour}}
 
=====Saving Throws=====
*{{Icon|Dexterity Ability Icon.png|35|link=Dexterity}} [[Dexterity]]
*{{Icon|Intelligence Ability Icon.png|35|link=Intelligence}} [[Intelligence]]
 
===== Skills=====
*[[Acrobatics]]
*[[Deception]]
*[[Perception]]
*[[Performance]]
*[[Persuasion]]
*[[Sleight of Hand]] (x2)
*[[Stealth]] (x2)
 
===Spells Known===
===== Cantrips Known=====
{{div col | style = column-width: 18em; list-style-type: none;}}
* [[File:Fire Bolt Icon.png|frameless|upright=0.1|link=Fire Bolt]] [[Fire Bolt]] (from High Elf)
{{div col end}}
 
===Special Abilities===
{{div col | style = column-width: 18em; list-style-type: none;}}
* {{Icon|Sting Icon.png|30|link=Vampire Bite}} [[Vampire Bite]]
{{div col end}}


==Recruitment==
{{Q|And to think I was ready to decorate the ground with your innards. Apologies.|Astarion, apologising after a misunderstanding}}
Astarion can be recruited 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 is looking for help in defeating an [[Intellect Devourer]]. Afterwards, he can be asked to join the party.


{{TOC|limit=3}}


==Background==
== Overview ==
=== Background ===
Astarion prowled the night as a vampire spawn for centuries, serving a sadistic master until he was snatched away. Now he can walk in the light and has the chance at a new life, but how long can he keep his past buried?
Astarion prowled the night as a vampire spawn for 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?


== Personal Quest==
=== Starting class ===
Astarion's [[:Category:Companion Quests|Companion Quest]] is: [[The Pale Elf]]
Astarion starts as a [[Rogue]]. Upon reaching level three, he will default to the [[Arcane Trickster]] subclass.
 
==Personality==
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.
 
==Interactions==
===Approval===
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]].
{{SpoilerBox|
==== Act One ====
'''Unsorted'''
* Ask Astarion how he wants to die, then choose an option
* Crush the tadpole that leaves [[True Soul Edowin]]
 
'''[[Ravaged Beach]]'''
* Attack the Tieflings holding [[Lae'zel]] in a cage. (+1)
* Ask [[Lae'zel]] to say 'please' after rescuing her (+1)
* Choose the 'Attack' dialogue option when speaking to [[Taman]] and [[Gimblebock]]
 
'''[[Druid Grove]]'''
* Refuse to help [[Zevlor]] persuade [[Kagha]] to let the Tieflings stay. (+1)
* Tell [[Elegis]] that she is pathetic of being scared of a few goblins. (+1)
* Tell the Tielfling kids trained by [[Asharak]] that they are going to die (+1)
* Make [[Zorru]] bow to [[Lae'zel]] (+1)
* After the conversation with [[Zorru]] tell [[Lae'zel]] that she is good at interrogations (+1)
* Let [[Arka]] shoot [[Sazza]] (+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]]'''
* When entering the [[Sunlit Wetlands]], pass the check to break the illusion, then BAA at the redcaps when you speak to them.
* Let him kill [[Gandrel]]
* Tell [[Auntie Ethel]] about the tadpole
* Speak to [[Lorin]] and roar at him
* When [[Auntie Ethel]]'s true form surrender, pass [[Intimidation]] or [[Deception]] Check to save [[Mayrina]] and obtain the power.
* 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
 
'''[[Blighted Village]]'''
* Deliver the final blow to the goblin [[Fezzerk]]
* Give him [[Necromancy of Thay]].
* Extort [[Barcus Wroot]] after rescuing him.
 
'''[[The Risen Road]]'''
* 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]]'''
* Deceive the goblins, say 'you can't be serious', then fling poo at them
* 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.
* Agree to Abdirak's ritual for Loviatar
* 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]]'''
* When convincing [[Varsh Ko'kuu]] to give you the Githyanki egg, tell him you will use it for an omelette (+1) or sell it (+1)
* Ask the Inquisitor how he knows so much about you (+1)
* Ask the Inquisitor what you'll get in return for producing the weapon (+1)
 
'''[[Underdark]]'''
* 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]]'''
* Ask [[Ward Magmar]] how to get a slave of your own.
* When talking to [[Ward Magmar]] about traveling to [[Moonrise Towers]], choose "Moonrise Tower holds the answers we need".
* After finding [[Philomeen]], talk to Lunkbug and mention she wants Laridda to move on.
* After rescuing [[Nere]], tell him to finish the slaves, or choose to say nothing.
 
'''Camp/Conversation'''
* In camp on the first night, tell [[Shadowheart]] to remain cautious
* 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]]'''
* 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]]'''
* Beat [[Oliver]] at hide-and-seek without being spotted
 
'''[[Reithwin Tollhouse]]'''
* 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]]'''
* Deceive the Sisters into killing each other
* Deceive [[Malus Thorm]] into killing himself
'''The Waning Moon'''
* Drink with [[Thisobald Thorm]] and tell him stories
 
'''[[Moonrise Towers]]'''
* 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 (+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
 
'''[[Gauntlet of Shar]]'''
* Persuade [[Balthazar]] to give you the bell to summon [[Flesh]]
* Tell him his scars must have hurt after the initial conversation with [[Raphael]] ({{Approval|Asterion|+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]] (+1)
* Persuade [[Yurgir]] to murder his [[Merregon_Legionnaire|Merregon]] followers, his displacer beast, and himself (+8)
 
'''Camp/Conversation'''
* After learning about his scars, let him that of course you'll help.
 
==== Act Three ====
'''[[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." }}
 
===Disapproval===
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]].
{{SpoilerBox|
==== Act One ====
* 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
* Purchase the artist at the Zhentarim Hideout
* Reveal his identity to the Gur
* Forbid him to drink blood from other people
* Reject him during the Party
* Give Gale [[Necromancy of Thay]] or destroy it
* When Shadowheart asks you not to take the items from the Selunite shrine, say "if you insist"
* 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 [[Warlock]])
 
'''[[Crèche Y'llek]]'''
* 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 (-1)
 
'''[[Grymforge]]'''
* 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'''
* Letting [[Volo]] follow through with his attempt to remove the parasite
 
==== Act Two ====
* Free [[Dolly Dolly Dolly|Dolly]] from the [[Moonlantern]] carried by [[Kar'niss]]
 
'''[[Ruined Battlefield]]'''
* Tell [[Harper Lassandra]] that you can aid in traversing the darkness (Wizard only)
 
'''[[Last Light Inn]]'''
* Drink the wine when talking to [[Jaheira]] inside
* Warn [[Isobel]] that [[Marcus]] plans to kidnap her


'''[[Moonrise Towers]]'''
=== Companion quest ===
* Convince Astarion to drink the blood of [[Araj Oblodra]].
{{Main|The Pale Elf}}
* Offer [[Fezzerk]] a fair fight.
Astarion's companion quest is called [[The Pale Elf]]. His story unravels as Astarion explores his newfound freedom, coming to terms with the abuse inflicted on him, and that he has inflicted on others.
* Tell the guards to release [[Fezzerk]].
* Give up all your gold to [[Gerringothe Thorm]].


'''[[Gauntlet of Shar]]'''
=== Recruitment ===
* Talk to [[Yurgir]] the Orthon instead of attacking immediately (-2)
{{Hatnote|Recruitable in [[Act One]].}}
* Persuading [[Yurgir]] to let you search the place for him (-2)
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.
* Agree to peace with the rats after interacting with the broken effigy.
}}


===Romance===
=== Approval ===
'''<big>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.</big>'''
{{Main|Astarion/approval}}
[[File:Astarion Approval.png|44px|left|alt=Astarion Approves|link=|Astarion Approves]]
Astarion approves of displays of power and cruelty, and appreciates snarkiness and mocking. He is inspired when the player gains access to areas or information by deceiving others. The player does not have to be "evil" to gain his approval, however — he approves when the player makes choices that support independence and autonomy, and when the player helps certain characters in need.


The following section explains Astarion's romance.
Astarion disapproves of displays of weakness and does not like acts of kindness or charity that offer no reward. He also disapproves when the player tries to rein him in or restrict him in some way.
{{RomanceBox|hide=1|
*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
== Personality ==
Astarion has the demeanour of a charming and confident nobleman with a biting wit. He enjoys making sarcastic remarks and japes at other people's expense, all the while acting smug and haughty. His decades of being a vampire have left him with a lack of moral scruples compared to the more upstanding members of the party, making him come off as ruthless at best or outright sadistic at worst. While he does attempt to suck the player’s blood non-consensually during one of the first long rests after recruiting him, he does respect the player’s decision regardless of whether it is to allow him to drink or forbid him from drinking their blood.


*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 makesa 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 at least need to know he is a vampire
At the beginning of the game's story, Astarion has recently escaped his abuser and discovered that sunlight no longer hurts him. As such, he comes off as reckless and hedonistic at times, wishing to enjoy his newfound freedom as much as possible. He shares this outlook with fellow party member [[Karlach]]. Once it is discovered that his immunity to sunlight is due to the [[Tadpole]], Astarion is less excited than the rest of the party at the prospect of destroying the tadpoles, instead wishing to find a way to wield their power instead.


*If the player allows Astarion to kill [[Gandrel]], the gur monster hunter who can be found to the left of the [[Riverside Teahouse]], you can talk to him to trigger a conversation where he invites the player to have sex with him; no approval changes for the dialogue in favor of it. To get the dialogue to kill Gandrel: know Astarion is a vampire before triggering the convo, then ask Gandrel what he is hunting, then picking "Only a spawn? Pity. Not like he's a real vampire." then picking either the first or second option.
Tragically, his demeanour belies the trauma of decades of abuse. Astarion's sire, the vampire lord [[Cazador]], performed horrifically depraved acts on Astarion that left both physical and psychological scars. He is utterly ruthless in his pursuit of revenge on Cazador and is not afraid to commit acts of cruelty or deception in the pursuit of that quest, being one of the few party members enthusiastic about making a pact with [[Raphael]]. The crux of his [[The Pale Elf|personal quest]] is whether he will follow in Cazador's footsteps and steal the power of the Vampire Ascendent for himself or kill Cazador and stop the rite.  


A similar scene with the same outcomes should trigger when the player reaches Good approval with Astarion, even without dealing with the Gur{{verify}}
== Gameplay ==
{{infobox statistics
| bodystyle = nowrap
| class = [[Rogue]]
| level = 1
| race = [[High elf]]
| name = Astarion
| weight_kg = 75
| weight_lb = 150
| movement_speed_meters = 9
| movement_speed_feet = 30
| str        = 8
| dex          = 17
| con          = 14
| int        = 13
| wis        = 13
| cha          = 10
| dex_save_proficiency = yes
| int_save_proficiency = yes
| feature1_name =  Fey Ancestry
| feature1_description = Immunity to sleep and advantage on saves against Charmed.
| feature2_name = Darkvision
| feature2_description = Can attack creatures in the dark without disadvantage, up to a range of 12 m (40 ft).
| action1_name = Vampire Bite
| action1 = Action: Target 1 creature, range 1.5 m / 5 ft. Target takes 2d4 {{damage color|Piercing}} damage. If target is Humanoid, they gain [[Bloodless]] and Astarion gains [[Happy (Condition)|Happy]].}}


*The above mentioned conversation will trigger a sex scene after you go to sleep, but the dialogue and scene are that of the tiefling party. The scene has no approval besides him approving if you sleep with him, but if you act as if you don't trust him he will be upset and leave rather than sleeping with the player. The player will wake the next morning to Astarion standing shirtless, back turned to them, and can make a playful quip before asking him about the scars on his back; no approval changes.
Astarion's default class is rogue. He can cast the [[Fire Bolt]] cantrip as a high elf, and as a vampire spawn he has access to a unique [[Vampire Bite]], however this action does not appear until after the party finds out about his vampirism.


*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
=== Proficiencies ===
{{hlist|
==== Equipment proficiencies ====
* {{SimpleWeaponsProf}}
* {{WeaponType|Hand Crossbows}}
* {{WeaponType|Longswords}}
* {{WeaponType|Rapiers}}
* {{WeaponType|Shortswords}}
* {{WeaponType|Longbows}}
* {{LightArmour}}}}
{{hlist|
==== Save proficiencies ====
* [[Dexterity]]
* [[Intelligence]]}}
{{hlist|
==== Skill proficiencies ====
* [[Acrobatics]]
* [[Deception]]
* [[Perception]]
* [[Performance]]
* [[Persuasion]]
* [[Sleight of Hand]] (x2)
* [[Stealth]] (x2)}}


*At either the goblin or the tiefling party, the player can agree to sleep with Astarion afterwards. It will trigger the above mentioned sex scene if this is the first time the player has slept with him. During the actual sex scene, the player can opt to show him their neck (if they are aware he is a vampire) to him to gain approval points, or not for no approval changes. The next morning, the player will awake to see Astarion standing, back turned to them. They can make a few quips (no approval changes) and/or ask him about the scars on his back (no approval changes).
=== Unlockable actions ===
The following actions are unlockable through certain decisions in Astarion's companion quest:
{{hlist|
* {{SAI|Ascendant Bite}}
* {{SAI|Misty Escape (Vampire Ascendant)|Misty Escape}}}}


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


<big>'''''Heavy Chapter 2 and 3 Spoilers Ahead'''''
After being turned, Astarion and his vampire spawn siblings lived at the [[Szarr Palace]] in the city. Cazador held complete control over his spawn, able to "puppet" their bodies and bend them to his will. He used this power to torment Astarion, torturing him physically and emotionally for centuries. At his command, Astarion was himself seducing the nobility of Baldur's Gate, luring young aristocrats back to be fed on by his master.
</big>
{{SpoilerBox|
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.


*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.
Unbeknownst to Astarion, Cazador had secretly made a deal with the archdevil [[Mephistopheles]] to invoke the Rite of Profane Ascension. Szarr was to siphon the life force of seven thousand souls, Astarion's included, to become a vampire ascendant.


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{{verify}}
Before the vampire lord's plans could come to fruition, Astarion was kidnapped and infected with a special illithid tadpole. And so, Astarion's journey to freedom from his master could begin...
 
*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.
 
*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.{{verify}} 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.
 
*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.
 
*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 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.
}}
}}
 
==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="200">
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]].
* 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]


[[Category: Elves]]
{{NavCompanions|state=expanded}}
[[Category: Humanoids]]
[[Category:Humanoids]]
[[Category: Rogues]]
[[Category:Undead]]
[[Category: Companions]]
[[Category:Elves]]
[[Category: Origins]]
[[Category:Vampires]]
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[[Category:Origins]]
[[Category:Companions]]
[[Category:Rogues]]
[[Category:Available to Speak with Dead]]
[[Category:Characters in Act 1]]
<indicator name="approval">[[/approval|Approval]]</indicator>
<indicator name="romance">[[/romance|Romance]]</indicator>
<indicator name="banter">[[/banter|Banter]]</indicator>

Latest revision as of 11:28, 17 April 2024

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

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

Overview[edit | edit source]

Background[edit | edit source]

Astarion prowled the night as a vampire spawn for 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?

Starting class[edit | edit source]

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

Companion quest[edit | edit source]

Main article: The Pale Elf

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

Recruitment[edit | edit source]

Recruitable in Act One.

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

Approval[edit | edit source]

Main article: Astarion/approval
Astarion Approves

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

Astarion disapproves of displays of weakness and does not like acts of kindness or charity that offer no reward. He also disapproves when the player tries to rein him in or restrict him in some way.

Personality[edit | edit source]

Astarion has the demeanour of a charming and confident nobleman with a biting wit. He enjoys making sarcastic remarks and japes at other people's expense, all the while acting smug and haughty. His decades of being a vampire have left him with a lack of moral scruples compared to the more upstanding members of the party, making him come off as ruthless at best or outright sadistic at worst. While he does attempt to suck the player’s blood non-consensually during one of the first long rests after recruiting him, he does respect the player’s decision regardless of whether it is to allow him to drink or forbid him from drinking their blood.

At the beginning of the game's story, Astarion has recently escaped his abuser and discovered that sunlight no longer hurts him. As such, he comes off as reckless and hedonistic at times, wishing to enjoy his newfound freedom as much as possible. He shares this outlook with fellow party member Karlach. Once it is discovered that his immunity to sunlight is due to the Tadpole, Astarion is less excited than the rest of the party at the prospect of destroying the tadpoles, instead wishing to find a way to wield their power instead.

Tragically, his demeanour belies the trauma of decades of abuse. Astarion's sire, the vampire lord Cazador, performed horrifically depraved acts on Astarion that left both physical and psychological scars. He is utterly ruthless in his pursuit of revenge on Cazador and is not afraid to commit acts of cruelty or deception in the pursuit of that quest, being one of the few party members enthusiastic about making a pact with Raphael. The crux of his personal quest is whether he will follow in Cazador's footsteps and steal the power of the Vampire Ascendent for himself or kill Cazador and stop the rite.

Gameplay[edit | edit source]

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

Proficiencies[edit | edit source]

Save proficiencies

Unlockable actions[edit | edit source]

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

History[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 Gurs. The vampire lord, Cazador Szarr, who had taken interest in him, approached Astarion and turned him into one of his slaves – a vampire spawn.

After being turned, Astarion and his vampire spawn siblings lived at the Szarr Palace in the city. Cazador held complete control over his spawn, able to "puppet" their bodies and bend them to his will. He used this power to torment Astarion, torturing him physically and emotionally for centuries. At his command, Astarion was himself seducing the nobility of Baldur's Gate, luring young aristocrats back to be fed on by his master.

Unbeknownst to Astarion, Cazador had secretly made a deal with the archdevil Mephistopheles to invoke the Rite of Profane Ascension. Szarr was to siphon the life force of seven thousand souls, Astarion's included, to become a vampire ascendant.

Before the vampire lord's plans could come to fruition, Astarion was kidnapped and infected with a special illithid tadpole. And so, Astarion's journey to freedom from his master could begin...

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.
  • 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]