Originally Posted by Elly
Originally Posted by Ametris
Him asking you to kneel and that insight check are also clearly indicating you're in for some kinky play.

Except not necessarily. It's possible to fail that insight check, and to refuse at first, after which the only way to continue the relationship is to choose the option "Give in and kneel". (Tav's face in this scene looks confused, uncertain and slightly upset too. They're not smirking or grinning like they would be in the new animations.)

Yes, the only way to contuine the relationship with Astarion is to submit and kneel. Point. That's the reason why there are 2 break up options before and the game is hinting, where the relationship will go. 2 Break-up options for all those, who don't like the D/s vibe and Astarion being dominant or to kneel voluntarily. You can kick him in the balls, if you don't like to *humiliate* yourself (you = your Tav) and kneel. And no, Tav isn't upset there. So if you consent and kneel, the game assumes you like this. "Abuse" or "Astarion being utterly evil to his romance partner" is not canon. If you regret it afterwards, the game gives you the possibility to break up after as you can break up with any other companion, if you don't want to consent to your partner (don't love them) anymore. That's game mechanics.

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