There are multiple ways to gain an advantage in combat encounters within D&D-based games. In Baldur's Gate 3, players have access to various methods of buffing their characters, such as enhancing armor, spellcasting, lockpicking abilities, or acquiring skills like Talking to Animals or Feather Fall.
Most buffs have a temporary effect, either lasting until the next Long Rest (Eldritch Armor) or for a few turns during combat (Bless). However, on occasions where a permanent buff is attainable, like Loviatar's Love, it is highly recommended for Baldur's Gate 3 players to seize the opportunity, even if it requires stepping out of their comfort zone. Followers of Loviatar would argue that embracing discomfort is the ultimate objective.
The Goddess Loviatar
In the world of Faerûn, she is known by various names. By listening to Abdirak preach, players can discover a few of these names. Among them are The Maiden of Pain, The Willing Whip, and the Patroness of Torturers. In terms of alignment, Loviatar, just like her devoted followers, leans towards Lawful Evil. Additionally, Loviatar's equally malevolent consort is the god Bane.
In artwork and other forms of media, The Maiden of Pain is frequently depicted wielding her whip and clad in her distinctive studded leather attire. Loviatar can often be found in torture chambers, a place where her follower Abdirak can also be encountered in Baldur's Gate 3.
Find The Shattered Sanctum
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The Shattered Sanctum holds a considerably advanced Torture Chamber, but reaching it requires the adventuring party of Baldur's Gate 3 to first navigate through the Blighted Village and the Goblin Camp. These two locations are situated to the west of Druid Grove and Ravaged Beach.
Based on the main character's race and their success in Strength and Charisma checks, it is feasible to smoothly maneuver through both of these areas without engaging in any combat by either charming or intimidating.
The Blighted Village offers numerous activities, with a nearby waypoint for easy return. Heading west leads to the Goblin Camp.
Inside the Goblin Camp lies the Shattered Sanctum. A waypoint is conveniently available here for battling the Goblin leaders, rescuing Volo, pursuing a chicken, and further exploring the area.
Enter The Shattered Sanctum
Enter through the massive main entrance, where a friendly yet imposing ogre stands guard, and proceed past Volo's captivating performance. Alternatively, opt for a quicker route by taking the shortcut through the Worg Pens.
Prior to confronting any of the three bosses within this area, it is highly advisable to acquire the buff. Loviatar's Love proves to be particularly advantageous during combat.
Find The Torture Chambers
The Sanctum's eastern side houses two primary torture chambers. When entering through the main doors, take a right turn. For those arriving via the Worg Pens, head south. In the northern chamber, Abdirak can be found, facing the eastern wall in prayer.
If Volo has been returned to his cage, he can be found in the room located two doors south of Abdirak. In case attacking his "owner" is a crucial part of the plan to liberate him, it is advisable to first seek out Abdirak and acquire the necessary buff.
Speak To Abdirak
Abdirak is positioned on his knees, facing a Shrine smeared with crimson stains. This architectural masterpiece is seamlessly integrated into the wall. Approach him for a dialogue, and he will elaborate on his purpose of overseeing as well as indulging in torturous activities. Furthermore, he delves into the fundamental principles of Loviatar worship, emphasizing its profound fascination with agony.
Accept His Proposal. Abdirak eagerly proposes to provide the player with a captivating display of Loviatar's profound wisdom. As the character stands before the very wall where they had been praying, Abdirak commences the demonstration.
Endure Two Dice Rolls. After each lash from Abdirak's whip, the character must pass a dice roll. If they succeed in three consecutive rolls, Abdirak will be thrilled by their unwavering resilience and their wholehearted acceptance of the spiritual enlightenment that accompanies suffering. As a reward, they will receive the beneficial enhancement known as Loviatar's Love.
The player is presented with several options when it comes to their dice rolls. They have the freedom to select from Intimidation, Performance, Constitution, and potentially a choice based on their character's race or class. It is advisable to consider the character's individual strengths and weaknesses before making a decision, although certain options may be more apparent than others.
Loviatar's Love
Once Abdirak's lesson is over, the character is bestowed with Loviatar's Love, a lasting enhancement. This valuable boon grants a +2 bonus to both attack rolls and saving throws for the subsequent three rounds whenever the character's health falls below 30%. This formidable advantage persists through rest or the passage of time.
This will secure approval from Astarion and Shadowheart if they are part of the player's party. Furthermore, it will greatly resonate with Shadowheart's Acolyte background and provide her with the inspiration to pursue the goal of A Kiss Without Mercy.
Baldur's Gate 3 is currently playable on PC and will be released on PS5 on September 6, 2023.