Baldur's Gate 3. Astarion Romance | The Dark Urge | Act 3

Act 1: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qGjLhnSsnN5njc0
Act 2: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmepqHh-o9Cdidk
Timecodes:
00:00 There was a dagger awaiting you all along. But from who?
03:26 Beyond the campsite, the city awaits in uneasy silence - one sleep away
04:28 The Gate is close... as is Cazador
07:18 So, it's the quest to free Shadowheart's parents, is it?
07:29 Be honest... what do you think of the new look?
07:45 The best hair in the camp
07:56 Wyrm's Crossing. This is it, I'm almost home
09:05 Honestly, kids these days...(Meeting Yenna, ver 1)
09:40 Meeting Yenna(ver 2)
10:29 We've hit our quota for mangy strays
11:10 Gur Camp. Meeting Ulma for a first time
14:47 Dalyria and Pale Petras
19:20 Unlock The Necromancy of Thay
21:32 So, you unlocked The Necromancy of Thay
21:59 The Circus of the Last Days
23:59 I'm going to f*cking kill you
26:38 This is the first time in two hundred years I've seen these streets in the sunlight
27:00 We should tell Aylin that Lorroakan is hunting her
28:22 Mystra knows you defied her, Gale
29:59 This place is miserable, even for the house of a god
30:19 Shadowheart is tenacious. And tougher than I expected
30:38 Araj Oblodra
37:10 The party in the sewers
38:57 Don't look at me with the sweet little 'disappointed i'm not getting cuddly Astarion' pout
43:03 Party members comments
44:37 So this is it. I'm home
47:13 Another guest for the master's celebration?
50:58 Victoria's corpse
53:38 We'll just to find the entrance. Then he'll be mine
53:52 This is all so grand
54:32 Cazador's journal
54:50 Vellioth's skull
57:20 Sebastian
1:01:34 I would've killed you
1:03:07 Asking about Gur kids
1:07:02 So, what's next?
1:08:05 Fooling Cazador
1:11:08 Cazador's ritual
1:21:27 Ulma
1:22:31 Party members comments
1:23:19 The graveyard date
1:29:19 He's gone. I'm here - I won.
1:32:54 The Drow twins (recorded for the content's sake)
1:40:43 Dumping Halsin
1:43:56 Go right on with Halsin (I hate this option, too)
1:44:58 Gortash and Orin intro
1:47:04 Come to finish the job?
1:48:29 Zethino
1:53:23 The group is full of weirdos
1:53:40 You're a Bhaalspawn
1:56:10 The Noblestalk
1:57:13 Party members comments
2:01:41 You know, I didn't realize you and I were so alike
2:03:41 I'm not going anywhere
2:05:00 Minsc about Bhaalspawns
2:07:23 Orin as Halsin
2:14:25 So, we kill Gortash or Halsin dies?
2:14:48 Meztli
2:16:18 Gortash
2:34:12 There's one more stone in our pockets
2:34:24 I'm still thinking about Karlach
2:34:35 About Minsc for a first time
2:34:49 Recruiting Minsc
2:40:57 Bhaal's tribunal and Sarevok
2:46:33 Valeria
2:48:14 It's quite homey
2:48:26 Careful, don't slip!
2:50:35 Orin's mother Helena
2:52:42 A duel with Orin
3:05:32 But somehow by your side, I still only ever saw you
3:06:12 We can craft a new future together
3:06:28 Orin's journal and Halsin's comment
3:07:01 Party members comments
3:10:22 Orin's netherstone
3:12:17 What will you do to the Elder Brain?
3:14:27 I owe everything to THAT?
3:18:04 Don't ask me to sacrifice my body
3:19:32 Vlaakith speaks only in lies
3:23:14 Raphael
3:34:48 Korilla
3:36:32 I welcome thee to the Devil's Fee
3:41:55 Korilla
3:44:32 Haarlep
3:48:01 The Orphic Hammer
3:48:58 Raphael, the Disney villain
3:53:49 It's the incubus isn't it?
3:55:27 They'll pay for what they did to me
4:04:34 We'll need to rethink our plan
4:10:19 Freeing Orpheus
4:17:42 Ending
4:34:39 I was thinking about...freedom
4:37:03 Withers

[@michikomanalang6733]

tav: "we should break up" Astarion: ✨no✨

[@Datho_turco_seyma]

"Noew noew noew" it felt like he would say that

[@Fenris--]

Forgive me for the delay, and thank you for your patience. 1) It took 15h to upload 2) I forgot to include Volo's research about Bhaalspawns and, perhaps, some other cutscenes. Act 3 is extremely laggy, so is the ending. 3) I couldn't trigger Astarion's comment about Mizora's 'love affrair' scene, because my character was instantly kicked out the camp. It's bugged. So I had to exclude Astarion's opinion about both Mizora and Wyll. Sorry :C 4) Idk if anyone cares, but I didn't keep these 'poly/cheating/bordello/Haarlep' options. I reverted my save files. It seem like a betrayal of Astarion's feelings/trust. He deserves a faithful partner, a friend, who will help him to heal his scars/wounds, recognize his self-worth. I don't see this romance as 'I can fix him/ make him worse'. Astarion doesn't need 'fixing', he needs healing, support. And that process can take years. I don't want him to change, 'to pet bunnies, that sort of thing', because that makes him unique. With Cazador gone, Astarion can finally decide what's best for him in a first place, to start working on his trauma. To enjoy life alongside his partner (only if he wants to be with someone by his side), to have 'a lot of fun'. But that's my humble opinion, how I see his character growth through the prism of my two playthroughs.

[@notmadjustdisappointedscie282]

So appreciative of your tenacity! I’ve binged watched the other two acts today and I’m thrilled to have a 4 hour version to fall asleep to 😊 Thanks for this awesome guide/series

[@OceanSongBird6355]

No worries the fact that u did all of this period is more than enough thank u for all the hard work. As I was thinking man I wish someone would have clips of him and dark urge romance with female character and then ur first vid popped up in my recommended so I was like whoo hoo!!! 😂 very grateful

[@notmadjustdisappointedscie282]

@@OceanSongBird6355agreed! This is exactly what I was looking for too!!

[@heyitsnotmars]

this is exactly the way i wish to play! love how you worded this! thank u 🖤

[@MaiPanda]

Thank for your hardwork, i feel like im playing myself. I hope you have the best luck in life 💗💞

[@Morgan556.]

1:16:46 - 1:17:45 That performance alone is one of the reasons why Neil deserves to win that 2023 award.

[@syachoi2469]

I'm being fed 🙏🫡

[@maryhales4595]

That bit with Godey is giving Princess Bride. "Oh, you mean this gate key?"

[@Bakujio]

The group full of weirdos part made me laugh especially with your party members having face paint on them.

[@maryhales4595]

It's an incredible line anyway, but that context just made it even funnier 😂😂

[@DarienHT26]

Currently playing for the umpteenth time and Astarion has a special place in my heart and soul. I know all too well how it feels to not have autonomy in some way. This story was told with such consideration and empathy. Beautiful job to Larian, Neil and the writers/animators just incredible!

[@ChiakiNanami736]

Dear word, the moments with cats are making me realize how much Astarion is a freaking cat in an elf's body, I swear...

[@AlbichuDR]

The look of utter disgust from Lae and Astarion is priceless.

[@bi-bunny-gaming9305]

That "WAKE UP!" Is the fucking funniest thing ever. Iconic

[@RebsApollo-n3j]

Astarion: i love you Me: *😭💕I LOVE YOU SO MUCH*

[@nikashae575]

This series is so so good. I really like the direction you took and the choices you made and its edited really nicely all together 👌👌thank you thank you!

[@Herrscher-of-Autism]

All the best fantasy romances start with one holding a knife to the other's throat

[@fiesta9694]

Thank you for this!!

[@Fenris--]

You're welcome! Although I regret that I didn't record all of his lines, related to the romance. I don't think it's possible, too many of them ;.; Patch 3 has brought new lines for Act 1, but I didn't check them yet.

[@shilomclain8773]

Thank you for this amazing scene pack

[@fatimagochi1184]

Thank you! I loved your videos so much. I just learned about the game (got a short recommended about Astarion and I instantly fell in love with this character) and since I'm sure I'll never play it (got no PS5 nor enough money to buy it from steam) I binged your videos super fast :D Thank you, you played beautifully :D

[@Fenris--]

I'm glad you enjoyed this little adventure of ours. Thank you ^^ Please, don't be sad! This game will definitely get a discount sooner or later. It has more content that I included in my videos, too. So much to explore by yourself!

[@DrArtemis117]

That's exactly how I ended up here too 😂

[@misami213]

Thank you for uploading, 4 hours are more than enough ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@rebeccalambert3240]

I just watched this entire series in about a day. I have never played this game xD. Someone help me

[@sistersamich2075]

I JUST DID THE SAME ALL IN ONE DAY 😭

[@thesweetestperson]

4 hours?! Wooow🎉🧡 Thanks to your videos, it feels like I'm playing the game myself 😄 just finished part 2 yesterday, glad to see 3d so soon

[@_Spy_]

I was waiting for the last part for weeks! Let's go!

[@basharuhat7253]

Thank you for uploading this, its like a movie, lol

[@Fenris--]

You're welcome!

[@rachies1591]

1:24:30 I’m dead 💀

[@spacecowboy4144]

God bless you I've been waiting for this

[@bb-kt4wz]

Wow. Every option we choose is different. I still love your videos.❤❤

[@Fenris--]

you're welcome

[@bb-kt4wz]

@@Fenris-- Yes I know:/ act 3 is full of disappointments. especially the ending. I sent a report about this, I hope they fix it. I don't think you need to do things you don't want to. But I have to say that I played it 3 times and all 3 times I couldn't ascend Astarion because I thought I couldn't do this to him. I ascended him the last time I played and I don't regret it at all, now I will ascend him again :)(the first time I ascended I was playing durge, now I'm playing tav.) As a note, he calls his own army in the last brain battle and I think it's very cute. and is very useful in tactician mode.

[@Fenris--]

@@bb-kt4wz I made a few save files. I'll have to replay the ending 2 more times to record the ending(ascendant Astarion + mind flayer DUrge, spawn Astarion + mind flayer DUrge). Even if my content will watch 5 people or less, I think it's still worth my time. I tried summoning ghouls/werewolves/shadows but they're all have been charmed and destroyed by the Emperor and enslaved dragon in one turn on tactician. Pretty much useless assets(imho) xD I didn't like ascendant Astarion, but I understand the appeal and why people enjoy this route. To each their own :D Either way he's still cool and charismatic.

[@bb-kt4wz]

@@Fenris-- That's unfortunate.xD I mostly use them to hold the mind flayers above and they do a 10x better job than nightsong. They were one of the most useful ones I summoned. I guess it depends on the way you play. (I never kept Orpheus alive, so I didn't have to fight the emperor. I didn't even know he fight in the brain war!) If you think so, I can't say anything, but I can say that those who watch are very lucky because I love your videos.🖤🖤 I'm sure it was very difficult to make your character a mind flayer because I could never do that.xD I can understand why you don't like ascendant astarion. Thanks for making his video anyway! Personally, I like both routes very much. And I'm waiting for more videos.🖤🖤 Please don't forget to have fun while making videos.🖤

[@Fenris--]

​@@bb-kt4wz I had to kill all of my companions and bring hirelings so I could avoid reloading +20 times, to get Astarion's comments prioritized on the pierce. Larian made characters in your group speak first, over the ones who were left in the camp(starting with Patch 4?). Hirelings are speechless (and much, much more weaker than paladin Karlach with two Deva maces and open hand monk Jaheira), so Astarion takes all screen time xD Who did you bring with you to fight the Brain? I'm just curious :D Orpheus is op, because all of his abilities are bonus actions he can use multiple times(don't forget speed potions). I never allied with the Emperor or used any tadpoles, because he said 'you're my puppet and you'll do whatever I say' + he tadpoled all the companions from a start(tho Orin tadpoled DUrge). I wouldn't trust him. Besides, I love Bae'zel, so I can't betray her ;.; Maybe that's why Astarion's 'super powerful allies' were worthless. I didn't even try to fight the Emperor, only mind flayers with counter spell reactions. Tav dropped the flask from her friend Rugan(who never appeared in Act 3 T_T) and watched the show, invisible, under Globe of Invulnerability, sipping coffee, while poor werewolves were charmed and attacked their own allies xD Oh, Dame Aylin is such a meme, despite her mighty look and outstanding design. The cake is a lie xD Even Lorroakan is much more useful and can't die. Isobel is better, because she can heal your entire party. Voss' dragons are meh, no idea about other allies. Aww, you're such a sweetheart. I'd hug you if it wouldn't scorch your skin off

[@mireimikazuki8041]

Wait I just found out I share a name with a cat in this game as well as the honor among thieves dnd movie??? I'm not sure if I should cheer or be offended on some level

[@TheHistoricalHiker]

Thank you!

[@RebsApollo-n3j]

Astorian being happy i wanna endulge in pleasure with other ppl and i letting him do the same, while we both stay the most loved to one another is truly what i want irl and im so jealous

[@tigerdream65]

Does anyone know what the armour tav is wearing? But otherwise i love the content, keep it up ❤

[@Fenris--]

Hi! You're welcome :3 Hood: Frayed Drow Hood. Underdark. Can be obtained from petrified drow, after you dealt with The Observer. The improved version of this hood is inside the cave, at Myconid Colony( gives invisibility for 2 turns, perfect for Astarion). Help Spaw with the druegars on the beach, and he'll open the gates for you. Armor: Drow Studded Leather Armour. Underdark - in between Selune's Fort and the tower, inside a chest at Lolth's Cultist's cache. X:83 Y:-207 Gloves: The Sparkle Hands. Wore for fashion, useless for non-monk class. Act 1, Can be found at Sunlit Wetlands inside a Wooden Chest (X:95 Y:210) Boots: Boots of Striding. Goblin Camp. Drop from Minthara. Cape: Vivacious Cloak. Shadow-cursed Lands. Can be found in a chest at Grand Mausoleum(X-260, Y-881). On the right side, when you enter this place.

[@tigerdream65]

@Fenris-- thank you for the response, just looked pretty cool if im honest

[@Fenris--]

@@tigerdream65 anytime~ And thank you :3 I forgot, that I equipped another gloves near the end of the game. Spellmight Gloves. This is a reward from Lucretious the necromancer (The Circus of the Last Days). You'll have to find all body pieces(7) of Dribbles the clown. And also I used 'Black and Azure' dye on every armor piece.

[@tigerdream65]

@Fenris-- sounds interesting, im having a hard time finding the hood tho tbf😅 Nvm found it

[@jinniejinchimm]

Thank you so much for this playthrough. I enjoyed every second of it! Will you ever do the bad ending for Astarion? (not that I wish that upin him)

[@Fenris--]

You're welcome! It's been a pleasure :D Eh, well... Honestly, I've been thinking about taking the bad route when I reached the Act 3. And I wasn't sure what ending people will want to see either. I had no doubt that Astarion will encourage my character to take over the world, to accept Bhaal... But he didn't, and I was stunned/shocked, more than words can say. Which made me love him even more (Ooh, I could smooch that pointy little face!). I'm too weak to make Durge and Astarion suffer, they deserve better. Maybe I relate myself to them too much, because I was in the same shoes once (the abuse part, physical and mental). Besides, I'll have to replay the whole Act 3. :c Because I did 'the pale elf' quest first. Likely it would have been wiser to leave it until the end. But, I wanted to rp that Tav/Durge helps Astarion to realise that he's already good enough, just the way he is, so later he'll do the same to her. To aid in standing against Bhaal. Although, i'm kinda upset that he wasn't trying to reach her 'dead' body or express shock, that the love of his life almost slipped into oblivion. It was very unnatural. I know, that accepting the power will lead to the mutual degradation, which nulifies their efforts to become a better person. The good ending is more rewarding, imho :D I'll use slightly changed quote by Astarion: "I - I don't want them to turn into anything else. I can't watch their bodies be taken over'. Forgive me, probably this is not the answer you were hoping for T_T I'll post epilogues if Larian will make any, that's for sure. We've been waiting long enough(?)

[@jinniejinchimm]

@@Fenris-- that's a totally reasonable response, I really appreciate it! You're so right because making Astarion suffer would only make things worse for Tav and him. I was just asking because I was wondering what the bad endings looked like, but I completely understand your choice 🫶

[@Fenris--]

​ @jinniejinchimm I knew about 'bad' Urge ending, simply because someone spoiled this in the comments + I saw an ending cutscene. But I had no clue what would happen with 'good' Urge route. If you do the bad route, this happens: Astarion becomes a total jerk (Cazador 2.0.) and tries to manipulate Tav/Durge by turning them into his obedient puppet. Standard Tav has no value in his eyes, because she 'already given everything' to him. They're not equal. If Tav will try to refuse to become a vampire spawn (not a full Vampire(!) Who would possibly create a competitor? Both Astarion (in Act 1) and Vellioth's skull( in Act 3) reveals/confirms this) - Astarion breaks things off. The Durge, if she did embrace Bhaal, has more value. An army of zealots, father's blessing + immortality, given by Astarion's bite. They're 'pathetic, horrible' and, in the same time, beautiful in their mutual degradation. If The Durge will try to break up, Astarion will be furious and after a few long rests, will attempt to resume a relationship (I'm not sure about this info, I did read on reddit). The Dark Urge must sacrifice both Jaheira and Minsc to her father ( because they're the 'enemy'). Either in front of Bhaal's althar or at Bhaal's tribunal (and then, fight Sarevok). In the end, the last 'sacrifice' must be made, to fulfil Bhaal's will (otherwise the 'loving' father will take Durge's free will and she will kill everyone mindlessly. The romance with Astarion ends here. Same path, as if Durge has failed in the duel with Orin. Or she can kill herself, after destroying the Netherbrain, to prevent Bhaal from taking the control over her body). The Dark Urge will stab The Emperor/an Illithid Karlach/ Orpheus to become 'the Absolute'. Everyone will turn into thralls, and both The Dark Urge and Astarion will rule the entire world. Or more like, she will 'sit, perhaps, naked on his lap, while Astarion rules the entire world' (can't remember the exact phrase, but close). I even got Astarion's comment before Patch 3, despite defying Bhaal (it was a glitch, I cut that line out). He said: 'I know what you're thinking. So let's do it. Let's seize the whole damn world and be reviled together'. And when The Dark Urge did stab Orpheus (I was simply curious), Astarion screamed ' what are you doing?!'. So Astarion was clueless on what he wants more: 'to dominate' or 'to destroy' the Netherbrain xD Patch 3 did remove this 'domination' line. Now Astarion says nothing, if your character follows the 'good' path. That means he agrees - the Brain must be destroyed.

[@jinniejinchimm]

@Fenris-- Omg that's low-key so awful HAHAHA. That's much worse then I thought 😂 here I was, thinking ascended Astarion was the worst possible ending but nope, this takes the cake.

[@SunsakiMemoir]

Curious: does this game work better on PS5 or XBOX?

[@Nirual]

So far, I read that PS5 is definitely when it comes to this game. I don’t know about XBOX, though😅

[@MaiPanda]

Hi. can i ask, if you attack harleep and kill him, do you still get the hammer? Thank uuuu

[@bb-kt4wz]

yes, after killing him you can take the key but he wont be able to say where to use it. you shuld find by yourself

[@karendeoliveira1543]

1:45:02

[@MaiPanda]

Hi. can i ask, if you attack harleep and kill him, do you still get the hammer? Thank uuuu

[@Fenris--]

Hi! You can disarm and lockpick the safe by using invisibility spell. It will not trigger Haarlep's cutscene. Or you can simply loot Haarlep after you fight him(the key). But either way you'll have to disarm the safe. So yeah, you'll get the hammer in any case