How do I unlock the romance option with Minthara in Baldur's Gate 3?

Unlocking the romance option with Minthara in Baldur's Gate 3 is a complex process that requires careful decision-making and alignment with her values. Minthara is a Drow Paladin of the Absolute, and her romance path is tied to siding with the goblins and the Absolute in the early game. This means that pursuing her romance will significantly alter the story and your relationships with other companions, as it involves making morally questionable choices. Here is a detailed guide on how to achieve this romance, including mechanics, strategies, and considerations.

To begin, you must first encounter Minthara in the Goblin Camp during Act 1. She is located in the Shattered Sanctum, where she serves as one of the leaders of the goblin forces. To initiate her romance, you need to align yourself with her and the Absolute. This involves siding with the goblins against the Druid Grove, which is a major story decision. When you first speak to Minthara, she will ask for your assistance in attacking the grove. Agreeing to help her is the first step toward unlocking her romance. Be aware that this choice will make you enemies with the Tieflings and Druids, and it will likely cause some of your companions, such as Wyll and Karlach, to leave your party permanently.

After agreeing to help Minthara, you will need to participate in the attack on the Druid Grove. This is a pivotal moment in the story, and your actions here will determine whether you can continue down the path of romancing Minthara. During the attack, you must ensure that the grove is successfully overrun by the goblins. This means actively fighting against the defenders of the grove, including the Tieflings and Druids. Once the grove is destroyed, Minthara will be pleased with your loyalty and will invite you to celebrate the victory with her.

The celebration scene is where the romance with Minthara begins to develop. During this scene, you will have the opportunity to express your interest in her. Choose dialogue options that show your admiration and willingness to align with her goals. Minthara values strength, loyalty, and a shared vision of power, so make sure your responses reflect these qualities. If you successfully navigate this conversation, the scene will progress to a romantic encounter, solidifying your relationship with her.

It is important to note that pursuing Minthara's romance locks you into a specific story path. This means that you will be unable to pursue other romance options with companions who oppose the Absolute, such as Shadowheart or Lae'zel. Additionally, siding with the goblins and the Absolute will have long-term consequences for the story, including the fate of key characters and the overall direction of the narrative. Be prepared for these changes and consider how they align with your desired playthrough.

One common mistake to avoid is attempting to romance Minthara while also trying to maintain good relationships with companions who oppose her. This is not possible, as her romance requires a firm commitment to her cause. If you try to play both sides, you risk losing the opportunity to romance her and may also alienate other companions. It is crucial to fully commit to Minthara's path if you wish to pursue her romance.

Advanced techniques for optimizing this romance include building a character that aligns with Minthara's values. A character who is morally ambiguous or outright evil will have an easier time gaining her favor. Additionally, choosing a class that complements her abilities, such as a Paladin or Cleric, can enhance your interactions with her. In terms of combat tactics, working closely with Minthara during battles and supporting her in fights will further strengthen your bond.

From a D&D rules perspective, Minthara's romance is influenced by alignment and role-playing choices. In Dungeons & Dragons 5E, alignment plays a significant role in character interactions, and Minthara's Lawful Evil alignment means she values order and power above all else. Your character's alignment and choices should reflect these values to successfully romance her. This includes making decisions that prioritize the goals of the Absolute and demonstrating a willingness to use force and manipulation to achieve those goals.

In summary, unlocking the romance option with Minthara in Baldur's Gate 3 requires a deliberate and committed approach. You must side with the goblins and the Absolute, participate in the attack on the Druid Grove, and successfully navigate the celebration scene to initiate the romance. Be prepared for the significant story consequences that come with this choice, and ensure that your character's actions and alignment align with Minthara's values. By following these steps and considerations, you can successfully pursue a romance with Minthara and explore this unique and morally complex storyline.