Astarion was eloquent and charming, typically valuing showmanship and finesse over strict rigor. His wry, cheeky wit made banter appear effortless. Still, he was well accustomed to violence and cruelty, often using his alluring charisma to manipulate and deceive. During the centuries of slavery he endured as a vampire spawn under the yoke of Cazador Szarr, Astarion lured thousands of unfortunate victims back to his master's palace. Cazador's sadistic treatment also made Astarion slow to trust.