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

In Baldur's Gate 3, Shadowheart's personal quest revolves around her devotion to Shar, the goddess of darkness and loss. One of the pivotal moments in her story is the decision to kill or spare the Nightsong, a mysterious and powerful entity tied to her destiny. Allowing Shadowheart to kill the Nightsong has significant consequences for her character, your relationship with her, and the overall story. HereÔÇÖs a detailed breakdown of what happens and how to navigate this choice.

First, to reach the point where Shadowheart can kill the Nightsong, you must progress through her personal questline. This involves finding and interacting with the Nightsong in the Shadow-Cursed Lands. The Nightsong is located in the Gauntlet of Shar, a dungeon filled with traps, puzzles, and enemies. YouÔÇÖll need to complete the trials within the Gauntlet to gain access to the inner sanctum where the Nightsong is held. Shadowheart will be a key figure in this quest, as her connection to Shar is central to the trials.

Once you reach the Nightsong, youÔÇÖll face a critical decision. Shadowheart will be compelled by her devotion to Shar to kill the Nightsong. At this moment, you can either support her decision or try to persuade her to spare the Nightsong. If you choose to let her kill the Nightsong, several things will happen. Shadowheart will fulfill her duty to Shar, solidifying her commitment to the goddess. This act will also trigger a transformation in Shadowheart, as she fully embraces her role as a Dark Justiciar, a servant of Shar. Her appearance will change, and she will gain new abilities tied to her dark path.

However, this choice comes with significant consequences. Killing the Nightsong will have a ripple effect on the story, particularly in Act 2 and beyond. The Nightsong is not just a random entity; she is tied to the fate of the Shadow-Cursed Lands and the overall narrative. By allowing Shadowheart to kill her, you may close off certain storylines and opportunities for resolution in the region. Additionally, this decision will affect your relationship with Shadowheart. If you support her choice, she will grow closer to you, but if you try to stop her, she may become hostile or leave the party.

To successfully navigate this choice, itÔÇÖs important to consider your party composition and ShadowheartÔÇÖs role in your group. If you rely on her as a healer or support character, her transformation into a Dark Justiciar may alter her abilities and playstyle. Be prepared to adapt your strategy accordingly. Additionally, think about the long-term implications of this decision. While it may strengthen your bond with Shadowheart, it could also limit your options in the gameÔÇÖs later acts.

One common mistake players make is not fully understanding the consequences of this choice. ItÔÇÖs easy to focus on the immediate benefits of supporting ShadowheartÔÇÖs desires, but the long-term effects on the story and your party dynamics are significant. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Another mistake is not preparing adequately for the Gauntlet of Shar. The trials are challenging, and youÔÇÖll need a well-balanced party to overcome them. Make sure your characters are well-equipped and have a variety of skills to handle the puzzles and combat encounters.

Advanced techniques for this scenario include using dialogue options to influence ShadowheartÔÇÖs decision without directly opposing her. For example, you can express concern for her well-being or question the morality of her actions, which may lead her to reconsider. However, this requires a high level of persuasion or insight, so invest in these skills if you want to explore this path. Additionally, consider the role of other companions in this decision. Some characters may have strong opinions about the Nightsong, and their reactions could influence the outcome.

In terms of D&D 5E rules, this scenario reflects the alignment and moral choices that are central to the game. ShadowheartÔÇÖs decision to kill the Nightsong aligns with her devotion to Shar, a lawful evil deity. This choice reinforces her alignment and commitment to her faith, which is a key aspect of her character. The consequences of this decision also reflect the gameÔÇÖs emphasis on player agency and the impact of choices on the narrative.

In conclusion, allowing Shadowheart to kill the Nightsong is a significant moment in BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3 with far-reaching consequences. It solidifies her transformation into a Dark Justiciar and strengthens your bond with her, but it also closes off certain storylines and affects the overall narrative. To navigate this choice successfully, consider the long-term implications, prepare for the challenges of the Gauntlet of Shar, and use dialogue options to influence the outcome. By understanding the mechanics and consequences of this decision, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your playstyle and goals.