Concept

Trystan is a former slave who swore an Oath of Vengeance against his masters, and slavers everywhere, after the death of his sister Ellia while in bondage.

Though originally from the Moonshae Isles, after killing his master in Amn Trystan fled to Baldur’s Gate, where he engaged in a vigilante campaign against Zhentarim interests in the city.

In 1492 DR, Trystan was infected with an Illithid parasite and now pursues his Oath of Vengeance against the Absolute.

For Trystan (Tav), I wanted to explore the impact of ensnarement by the ultimate slavers - Mind Flayers - on a righteous character who abhors slavery in all forms. I wanted my character build to showcase both Trystan’s devotion to his oath and the influence of the Illithid Parasite, even if Trystan rejects all other Illithid powers.

I also wanted Trystan to be the charismatic party Face for dialogue in BG3.

To achieve this I decided to lean into two aspects of Trystan’s character concept:

1. He is a melee focused character, motivated by a pre-existing oath that is relevant to the plot of BG3.
2. He hates his tadpole and the Absolute, but is ultimately changed by his tadpole despite his efforts to resit.

Therefore, on my shopping list were:

• Melee Focused: Must be able to fill the Striker and/or Defender roles
• Oath of Vengeance: Must take at least one level in Oath of Vengeance Paladin.
• Charismatic: As party leader Trystan should be able to fulfil the role of party Face.
• Tadpole Influence: The build must showcase Illithid like abilities without Tyrstan accepting more tadpoles over the course of the campaign.

Usage

Combat:

Non-combat:

Build

Gains and Losses

When compared with a pure Paladin, this build makes the following trade-offs:

Gains

Loses

Equipment

Trystan’s equipment is geared towards …