What happens if I let Shadowheart kill the Nightsong in Baldur's Gate 3?

In Baldur's Gate 3, the decision to let Shadowheart kill the Nightsong is a pivotal moment in her personal questline and has significant consequences for both her character and the overall story. The Nightsong is a key figure tied to Shadowheart's past and her devotion to Shar, the goddess of darkness and loss. Allowing Shadowheart to kill the Nightsong is a choice that aligns with her Sharran faith, but it also has far-reaching implications for her character development, your relationship with her, and the game's narrative.

To reach this point, you must first progress through Shadowheart's personal quest, which involves uncovering her connection to Shar and the mysterious artifact she carries. This questline leads you to the Gauntlet of Shar, a dungeon filled with trials and puzzles that test your party's resolve. Completing the Gauntlet of Shar is essential to advancing Shadowheart's story, as it culminates in the confrontation with the Nightsong.

The mechanics of this decision involve dialogue choices and approval mechanics. Shadowheart's approval of your character plays a significant role in whether she will follow through with killing the Nightsong. If her approval of you is high, she will be more likely to listen to your input during critical moments. However, if her approval is low, she may act independently, making choices that align with her Sharran beliefs regardless of your influence.

To ensure Shadowheart kills the Nightsong, you must support her devotion to Shar throughout the game. This means making choices that align with Shar's values, such as embracing darkness, secrecy, and loss. During key moments in Shadowheart's questline, you should encourage her to stay true to her faith. For example, when she expresses doubts about her mission or her connection to Shar, you should reassure her and reinforce her commitment to the goddess.

When you finally reach the Nightsong in the Gauntlet of Shar, the game presents you with a critical choice. Shadowheart will be faced with the decision to kill the Nightsong, and your dialogue options will influence her actions. To let her kill the Nightsong, you should choose dialogue options that support her Sharran faith and encourage her to fulfill her mission. For example, you might say something like, "This is what Shar wants. You must do this." If her approval of you is high and you have consistently supported her devotion to Shar, she will proceed with killing the Nightsong.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind when making this choice. First, be aware that allowing Shadowheart to kill the Nightsong will have significant consequences for the story. The Nightsong is a key figure in the fight against the Absolute, and her death will alter the course of the narrative. Additionally, this choice will deepen Shadowheart's connection to Shar, which may affect her interactions with other companions and her overall character arc.

Common mistakes to avoid include trying to persuade Shadowheart to spare the Nightsong if you have not built up her approval or supported her Sharran faith. If you attempt to sway her away from killing the Nightsong without the necessary groundwork, she may resist your influence and act against your wishes. It is also important to consider the long-term implications of this choice, as it will shape Shadowheart's character and your relationship with her for the rest of the game.

Advanced techniques for optimizing this outcome involve carefully managing Shadowheart's approval throughout the game. This includes making choices that align with Shar's values, engaging in conversations that reinforce her faith, and completing her personal questline in a way that supports her devotion. Additionally, you can use your character's abilities and skills to influence her decisions. For example, if you have high Charisma and proficiency in Persuasion, you may have more success in guiding her actions.

From a D&D rules perspective, this choice reflects the alignment and moral dilemmas that are central to the game. Shadowheart's decision to kill the Nightsong is a reflection of her alignment as a follower of Shar, and it highlights the tension between her faith and her personal growth. The game's implementation of these mechanics allows players to explore complex character dynamics and make choices that have meaningful consequences.

In specific scenarios, the choice to let Shadowheart kill the Nightsong can lead to unique interactions and outcomes. For example, if you have romanced Shadowheart, her decision to kill the Nightsong may deepen your bond, as it shows that she trusts you to support her in her darkest moments. Conversely, if you have a more antagonistic relationship with her, this choice may further strain your connection, as it reinforces her commitment to Shar over your influence.

Overall, the decision to let Shadowheart kill the Nightsong is a significant moment in Baldur's Gate 3 that requires careful consideration of her character, your relationship with her, and the broader narrative. By understanding the mechanics involved, making strategic choices, and considering the long-term implications, you can guide Shadowheart through this pivotal moment and shape her story in a way that aligns with your vision for the game.