What happens if I let Shadowheart keep the artifact in Baldur's Gate 3?

In Baldur's Gate 3, Shadowheart is one of the first companions you can recruit, and she carries a mysterious artifact that plays a significant role in the story. The artifact is tied to her personal quest and the larger narrative of the game. If you choose to let Shadowheart keep the artifact, it will have several implications for your playthrough, including story progression, companion relationships, and gameplay mechanics.

When you first meet Shadowheart, she is trapped in a pod on the Nautiloid ship. After rescuing her, she joins your party and reveals that she is carrying an artifact of great importance. This artifact is a key element in the game's main storyline, and it is closely tied to Shadowheart's personal quest. Throughout the game, you will have opportunities to discuss the artifact with her, and your choices will affect your relationship with her and the overall story.

To let Shadowheart keep the artifact, you simply need to avoid taking it from her. This means that during conversations and interactions where the artifact is mentioned, you should choose dialogue options that support her decision to keep it. For example, when she expresses her desire to hold onto the artifact, you can agree with her and reassure her that it is safe in her hands. This will increase her approval of you and strengthen your relationship with her.

One important mechanic to consider is Shadowheart's approval rating. This is a measure of how much she likes or dislikes you based on your actions and dialogue choices. Letting her keep the artifact will generally increase her approval, as it shows that you trust her and respect her wishes. However, if you try to take the artifact from her or question her motives, her approval will decrease, and she may become less cooperative in the future.

In terms of combat tactics, Shadowheart is a cleric, which means she has access to a variety of healing and support spells. Letting her keep the artifact does not directly affect her combat abilities, but it can influence her behavior in battle. For example, if she feels that you trust her, she may be more willing to use her spells to support the party and keep everyone alive. On the other hand, if she feels betrayed or mistrusted, she may be less inclined to help you in combat.

There are a few common mistakes to avoid when dealing with Shadowheart and the artifact. One mistake is trying to take the artifact from her too early in the game. This can lead to a significant drop in her approval and may even cause her to leave the party. Another mistake is ignoring her personal quest and not engaging with her about the artifact. This can result in missed opportunities to deepen your relationship with her and unlock additional story content.

Advanced techniques for optimizing your relationship with Shadowheart include paying close attention to her approval rating and making choices that align with her values. For example, she tends to approve of pragmatic and cautious decisions, so choosing dialogue options that reflect these traits will help you gain her trust. Additionally, completing her personal quest and supporting her throughout the game will further strengthen your bond.

In terms of D&D rules and mechanics, Shadowheart's class as a cleric gives her access to a wide range of spells and abilities. Clerics are versatile characters who can fill multiple roles in a party, including healing, support, and damage dealing. Letting her keep the artifact does not change her class mechanics, but it can affect her willingness to use her abilities to their fullest potential.

Specific examples of scenarios where the artifact comes into play include encounters with other characters who are interested in the artifact, such as the Githyanki. These characters may try to take the artifact from Shadowheart, and your choices in these situations will have lasting consequences. For example, if you side with the Githyanki and try to take the artifact, Shadowheart will likely disapprove and may even leave the party. On the other hand, if you defend her and let her keep the artifact, she will appreciate your loyalty and trust.

In conclusion, letting Shadowheart keep the artifact in Baldur's Gate 3 is a decision that will affect your relationship with her, the story progression, and your overall gameplay experience. By supporting her and respecting her wishes, you can build a strong bond with her and unlock additional content related to her personal quest. Paying attention to her approval rating, making thoughtful dialogue choices, and avoiding common mistakes will help you navigate this aspect of the game successfully.