Shadowheart is a beloved companion among Baldur's Gate 3 players. At first glance, she appears to be a youthful and attractive girl, but beneath her surface lies a tragic destiny afflicted by the curse of Shar and the separation from her parents. This backstory has resonated with many players, leading them to feel a deep sense of responsibility for the decisions they make regarding her life. While there are no truly horrific or ideal outcomes for Shadowheart, her path is defined by difficult choices, personal losses, and necessary compromises.
The pivotal moment in Shadowheart's narrative occurs when she is faced with the decision of embracing her role as a Dark Justiciar or betraying Shar. Subsequently, she is compelled to determine the ultimate fate of her parents, a choice that proves to be more demanding than initially perceived.
Shadowheart Endings in BG3
Shadowheart Betrays Shar
The journey begins with Shar instructing Shadowheart to eliminate Nightsong in order to prove her loyalty and earn the title of Dark Justiciar. When the party arrives at the location where Nightsong is being held captive, they will encounter Balthazar, who intends to abduct the prisoner. It is vital to prevent Balthazar from carrying out this plan as it would prompt Shadowheart to react adversely and depart from the group permanently.
After encountering Nightsong, she will proclaim that the Dark Justiciar's existence will be plagued by misery. When the player persuades Shadowheart to spare the captive's life, she will cast aside her spear but harbor reservations about betraying her goddess. Nonetheless, it transpires that Nightsong is the offspring of the revered deity Selune, granting Shadowheart newfound abilities. Furthermore, Nightsong extends a helping hand in the battle against Ketheric Thorm. Subsequently, the players discover that Shadowheart's parents are being held captive in the House of Grief.
At the House of Grief, the players encounter Viconia DeVir, who proposes turning over Shadowheart to her. Naturally, if this occurs, Shadowheart will depart from the party and her storyline will conclude, but the Devotees of Shar shall become allies. Alternatively, if the players reject Viconia's offer, a conflict with her ensues, leading to the long-awaited reunion with Shadowheart's parents. However, unless Shadowheart slays them, the curse of Shar will forever afflict her. Nonetheless, the family is finally reunited, and if the players have a romantic relationship with Shadowheart, she extends an invitation to live harmoniously together.
If she kills her parents, they will become Moonmotes, and Shadowheart will be free of the curse. She will be glad to live with the protagonist but will miss her parents.
Shadowheart Submits to Shar
By slaying Nightsong, Shadowheart shall demonstrate her allegiance to Shar and ascend as the Dark Justiciar. As a reward, she shall be bestowed with the fabled spear and bestowed with formidable capabilities by the goddess. Embracing her service to Shar, Shadowheart will grow cold-hearted, forsaking all romantic involvements should she choose to eliminate her own parents.
As described in the aforementioned conclusion, the party must make their way to the House of Grief to face off against Viconia DeVir. Following this, Shar instructs Shadowheart to eliminate her own parents, leading to Shadowheart becoming the esteemed right hand of the goddess and acquiring heightened strength. To ensure that Shadowheart does not experience remorse for her actions, Shar erases her memories of her parents. Should Shadowheart's parents survive, the family will be reunited, and even Shar will cease to interfere with their lives.
Shadowheart Becomes The Absolute
This particular conclusion to Shadowheart's storyline can only be achieved if Karlach is present in the party and undergoes a transformation into a Mind Flayer. However, if Shadowheart chooses to eliminate Karlach at a critical juncture, her transformation will progress to the Absolute stage. It is important to note that this particular outcome is widely regarded as unfavorable.
Baldur's Gate 3 is available now on PC and PS5, with an Xbox Series X version also in development.