How do I improve my relationship with Minthara in Baldur's Gate 3?

Improving your relationship with Minthara in Baldur's Gate 3 involves understanding her personality, motivations, and the approval mechanics that govern how companions react to your choices. Minthara is a Drow Paladin of the Absolute, and her alignment leans toward Lawful Evil. She values strength, loyalty, and decisive action, particularly when it aligns with her goals of power and control. To build a strong relationship with her, you need to make choices that resonate with her worldview and avoid actions that she would find weak or dishonorable.

The approval system in Baldur's Gate 3 is based on how your decisions align with a companion's values. Minthara, in particular, approves of ruthless and pragmatic decisions. For example, she will favor actions that demonstrate dominance, such as intimidating or eliminating enemies rather than negotiating with them. She also appreciates when you prioritize the goals of the Absolute, at least in the early stages of the game. To gain her approval, you should focus on making choices that reflect strength, ambition, and a willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve your goals.

One of the most effective ways to improve your relationship with Minthara is to side with her during the conflict between the Druids and the Goblins in Act 1. This involves infiltrating the Druid Grove and ultimately betraying the Tieflings and Druids by siding with the Goblins. This decision will significantly boost Minthara's approval, as it aligns with her desire for conquest and her loyalty to the Absolute. However, this choice will also alienate other companions like Wyll, Karlach, and Halsin, so it is important to consider the broader implications for your party composition and story progression.

In dialogue, Minthara responds positively to assertive and commanding tones. When speaking with her, choose options that emphasize your strength and determination. For example, if she questions your loyalty or intentions, respond with confidence and assert your commitment to the Absolute. Avoid showing hesitation or compassion, as these traits are likely to lower her approval. Additionally, engaging in her personal quests and supporting her ambitions will further strengthen your bond. Minthara's personal quest involves her role as a leader within the Absolute's forces, and helping her achieve her goals will earn her trust and approval.

Combat tactics can also play a role in improving your relationship with Minthara. She is a Paladin, so she excels in melee combat and benefits from a party composition that complements her strengths. Pairing her with characters who can provide support, such as a Cleric or Bard, will enhance her effectiveness in battle. Additionally, making strategic decisions during combat that prioritize efficiency and victory will align with her values. For example, using area-of-effect spells to eliminate multiple enemies quickly or focusing on high-priority targets will demonstrate your tactical prowess and earn her respect.

One common mistake to avoid when trying to improve your relationship with Minthara is showing weakness or indecision. She has little patience for characters who waver in their convictions or prioritize mercy over results. For instance, sparing enemies or choosing diplomatic solutions over violent ones will likely lower her approval. Similarly, failing to support her in key moments, such as during the conflict at the Druid Grove, will damage your relationship. It is important to remain consistent in your actions and align them with her values.

Advanced techniques for optimizing your relationship with Minthara include leveraging her class abilities and synergizing with her playstyle. As a Paladin, she has access to powerful smite spells and auras that can turn the tide of battle. Ensuring that she has access to high-quality weapons and armor will enhance her combat effectiveness and demonstrate your commitment to her success. Additionally, using her Divine Sense ability to detect hidden enemies or traps can provide strategic advantages and further align with her pragmatic approach to problem-solving.

From a D&D rules perspective, Minthara's abilities are based on the Paladin class in the 5th Edition ruleset. This includes features like Lay on Hands, Divine Smite, and Aura of Protection. Understanding these mechanics can help you make the most of her abilities in combat and support her effectively. For example, using Lay on Hands to heal her when she is low on health can prevent her from falling in battle, which would negatively impact her approval. Similarly, positioning her Aura of Protection to benefit the entire party can demonstrate your tactical awareness and earn her respect.

Specific examples of scenarios where you can improve your relationship with Minthara include the initial encounter with her at the Goblin Camp. When she questions your intentions, choosing dialogue options that assert your loyalty to the Absolute will earn her approval. Another key moment is during the raid on the Druid Grove, where siding with her and participating in the attack will significantly boost her approval. Additionally, supporting her leadership decisions and following her lead in quests related to the Absolute will further strengthen your bond.

In summary, improving your relationship with Minthara requires a combination of strategic decision-making, assertive dialogue choices, and effective combat tactics. By aligning your actions with her values and supporting her ambitions, you can build a strong and lasting bond with this complex and powerful companion.