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{{ up to date | 2023-08-20 }} <!-- Date format is YEAR-MONTH-DAY, like 2023-08-07. -->
{{Location page
 
| prefix = The
[[File:Arcane Tower.jpg|thumb|The Arcane Tower overlooking the Ebonlake.]]
| name = Arcane Tower
{{Relative location
| alt name =
|region= Underdark
| image = Arcane Tower.jpg
|location = {{PAGENAME}}
| image description = The Arcane Tower overlooking the Ebonlake.
|east = Selûnite Outpost
| act = one
|north = Decrepit Village
| summary = The tower overlooks the Ebonlake, and belongs to [[Lenore De Hurst]], however, she has not returned home in over a decade.
| region prefix = the
| region = Underdark
| east = Selûnite Outpost
| north = Decrepit Village
}}
}}
The '''Arcane Tower''' is a [[location]] in [[Act One]], overlooking the [[Underdark|Underdark's]] Ebonlake. The tower belongs [[Lenore De Hurst]], however, she has not returned home in over a decade.
== Overview ==
== Overview ==
=== Access ===
=== Access ===
Approaching the Arcane Tower is made difficult by the [[Arcane Cannon]]s protecting it.
Approaching the Arcane Tower is made difficult by the [[Arcane Cannon]]s protecting it. As a small location, reaching the staircase outside the tower grants 40 [[Experience#Discovering locations|XP]] at Level 4, 80 XP at Level 5.


The area is divided roughly into the entry area, each floor of the tower, and the garden outside the bottom floor. Upon initial approach, the doors are shut and the central elevator is disabled, and floors must be accessed through other means.
The area is divided roughly into the entry area, each floor of the tower, and the garden outside the bottom floor. Upon initial approach, the doors are shut and the central elevator is disabled, and floors must be accessed through other means.


The player can use the fungus platforms growing on the southern wall of the tower to jump their way down to the ground floor. It is a good idea to cast [[Feather Fall]] to prevent unnecessary fall damage. Alternatively, Flying or teleporting (via [[Misty Step]]) will also get the player down without issues.  
The party can use the fungus platforms growing on the southern wall of the tower to jump their way down to the ground floor. It is a good idea to cast {{SAI|Feather Fall}} to prevent unnecessary fall damage. Alternatively, Flying or teleporting (via {{SAI|Misty Step}}) will also get the party down without issues.  


==== Ground floor (generator room) ====
==== Ground floor (generator room) ====
To restore power to the tower - which will activate the elevator and deactivate the automated defences - the player will need to bring a [[Sussur Bloom]] to the power generator. Sussur Blooms can be found at the Garden just outside the door, or from the sussur tree in the [[Dread Hollow]].  
To restore power to the tower - which will activate the elevator and deactivate the automated defences - the party will need to bring a {{SmRarityItem|Sussur Bloom}} to the power generator. Sussur Blooms can be found at the Garden just outside the door, or from the sussur tree in the [[Dread Hollow]].  


Interact with the Power Generator to bring up the crafting menu and use it to combine the machine with the Bloom. The tower will come to life, granting 25 experience and an [[inspiration]] point for the [[Guild Artisan]] background. Once the generator is powered, the arcane cannons power down, the arcane braziers become lit, and the elevator can be used to ascend and descend between the floors.
Interact with the Power Generator to bring up the crafting menu and use it to combine the machine with the Bloom. The tower will come to life, granting 25 experience and an [[Inspiration]] point for the [[Guild Artisan]] background. Once the generator is powered, the arcane cannons power down, the arcane braziers become lit, and the elevator can be used to ascend and descend between the floors.
 
===Layout===
<section begin="layout"/>
{| class="wikitable"
|+Arcane Tower layout
!Level
!How to access
!Notable elements
|-
||{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(4th_Floor)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} 4th Floor (Roof)
|Can be reached by the '''elevator''' and/or '''flight'''.
|This level contains [[Bernard]], and the {{SmallIcon|Guiding Light Icon.png}} [[Guiding Light]] ring which is one method to visit the basement.
|-
||{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(3rd_Floor)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} 3rd Floor (Bedroom)
|Can be reached by the '''elevator''' and/or '''flight'''.
|Contains key elements that allows the player to converse with Bernard and other constructs peacefully.
|-
|{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(2nd_Floor)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} 2nd Floor (Main Entrance)
|Can be accessed by the '''Main Door'''. Or '''flight''' and '''elevator''' if approaching from another level.
|Contains the '''Chest of Mundane ({{SmallIcon|Leather Boots Magical Icon.png}}''' [[Mystra's Grace]] + two [[Scrolls]]) and 2x [[Arcane Cannon|Arcane Cannons]].
|-
|{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(1st_Floor)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} 1st Floor (Greenhouse)
|Can be reached by the '''elevator, flight,''' or by '''jumping''' or '''teleporting''' on the mushrooms on the tower exterior.
|Contains the '''quest related items''' ([[Tongue of Madness]], [[Timmask Spores]]). If the player does not wish to explore the rest of the tower, they only have to visit this one floor.
|-
|{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(Ground_Floor)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} Ground floor (Generator)
|The exterior Garden can be access by '''flight''', '''jumping''' or '''teleporting''' on outside the tower. The locked 1st floor itself can be accessed by the '''Back Door''' or a '''Hole''' on the wall.
|Contains the generator that allows you to restore power to the tower. The elevator itself is located on a mezzanine, with the rest of the basement beneath it.
|-
|{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(Basement)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} Basement (Secret Room)
|Can reach through elevator with the {{SmallIcon|Guiding Light Icon.png}} [[Guiding Light]] ring equipped, or by '''flying''' through a gap from the 1st level, or by using [Mage Hand] to activate a lever under the staircase, or by using a bow to activate the lever under the staircase through the staircase, or by activating the lever on the 4th floor hidden next to a bookshelf. 
|Contains treasures - including the {{SmallIcon|Staff of Arcane Blessing Icon.png}}[[Staff of Arcane Blessing]], {{SmallIcon|The Sparkswall Icon.png}}[[the Sparkswall]], and another set of the quest items ([[Tongue of Madness]], [[Timmask Spores]]).
|}<section end="layout" />


===First floor (greenhouse)===
===First floor (greenhouse)===
This floor can only be accessed by the restored elevator, by flying, or by platforming on the exterior fungus on the south side of the tower. This is a level that contains all the mushrooms required for the quest [[Help Omeluum Investigate the Parasite]].
This floor can only be accessed by the restored elevator, by flying, or by using the platforms on the exterior fungus on the south side of the tower. This is a level that contains all the mushrooms required for the quest {{Quest|Help Omeluum Investigate the Parasite}}.


The other notable item on this floor is the [[Threadbare Book]] containing the phrase: ''"How can I trust? How should I know? How can I show myself, my darkest me?"'', which provides an additional option for interacting with [[Bernard]] on the roof.
The other notable item on this floor is the {{SmRarityItem|Threadbare Book}} containing the phrase: ''"How can I trust? How should I know? How can I show myself, my darkest me?"'', which provides an additional option for interacting with {{CharLink|Bernard}} on the roof.


===Second floor (main entrance)===
===Second floor (main entrance)===
The main floor can be accessed directly through the front door of the tower, or via the elevator after it is powered. Opening the Main Door requires succeeding on a {{Ability check|Sleight of Hand|15}}, or it can be broken down - it has {{Cond|Medium Toughness}} and 36 hit points. Alternatively, there is a broken window to the left of the door that can be entered. Opening this door prior to the restoration of power will lead to a confrontation with two Arcane Cannons.
The main floor can be accessed directly through the front door of the tower, or via the elevator after it is powered. Opening the Main Door requires succeeding on a {{Ability check|Sleight of Hand|15}}, or it can be broken down - it has {{Cond|Medium Toughness}} and 36 hit points. Alternatively, there is a broken window to the left of the door that can be entered. Opening this door prior to the restoration of power will lead to a confrontation with two Arcane Cannons.


On the northern balcony is the [[Chest of the Mundane]], which is revealed as magical with a successful [[Arcana]] check. Removing the clutter from the chest, or placing the chest near a Sussur Bloom, will dispel the illusion to reveal some scrolls and [[Mystra's Grace]]. The latter can provide the party an additional casting of [[Feather Fall]] which can help them avoid some damage trying to access the ground floor.
A dusty book can be found here. If read it changes its name to {{SmRarityItem|Evil's Ascent}}.
 
On the northern balcony is the {{SmRarityItem|Chest of the Mundane}}, which is revealed as magical with a successful [[Arcana]] check. Removing the clutter from the chest, or placing a Sussur Bloom near the chest (or vice versa), will dispel the illusion to reveal some scrolls and {{SmRarityItem|Mystra's Grace}}. The latter can provide the party an additional casting of {{SAI|Feather Fall}} which can help them avoid some damage trying to access the ground floor.


The southern balcony doesn't contain any notable items, but lets you access the exterior fungus platforms to the lower levels.  
The southern balcony doesn't contain any notable items, but lets the party access the exterior fungus platforms to the lower levels.


===Third floor (bedroom)===
===Third floor (bedroom)===
[[File:Roads to Darkness.jpg|thumb|''The Roads to Darkness'' book on Lenore's desk. ]]
[[File:Roads to Darkness.jpg|thumb|''The Roads to Darkness'' book on Lenore's desk. ]]
This floor can only be accessed by the restored elevator or by flying. This floor contains documents that the player should inspect prior to ascending to the forth floor (roof), in order to have a peaceful interaction with Bernard.  
This floor can only be accessed by the restored elevator or by flying. This floor contains documents that the party should inspect prior to ascending to the fourth floor (roof), in order to have a peaceful interaction with Bernard.  


* [[The Roads to Darkness]] can be found on the desk at the South-Eastern corner at {{coords|-25|-297}}.   
* {{SmRarityItem|The Roads to Darkness}} can be found on the desk at the South-Eastern corner at {{coords|-25|-297}}.   
* The [[Torn-Out Paper]] on the table close to the elevator at {{coords|-35|-286}}.  
* The {{SmRarityItem|Torn-Out Paper}} on the table close to the elevator at {{coords|-35|-286}}.  


Aside from the books, the magical ring [[Mage's Friend]] can also be looted on this floor in a wooden chest by the bed, at {{coords|-29|-273}}.   
Aside from the books, the magical ring {{SmRarityItem|Mage's Friend}} can also be looted on this floor in a wooden chest by the bed, at {{coords|-29|-273}}.   


The [[Engraved Githyanki Disc]] can be found on top of a bookshelf in the South-Eastern corner {{Coords|-31|-296}} and be read by [[Lae'zel]] to start the quest [[Discover the history of Prince Orpheus]]. If she is not available, it can be read after picking up [[The Careful Art of Tir'su Ciphers]] from the table near the elevator {{Coords|-32|-292}} and using it to read the disc (or after succeeding on a {{Ability check|Intelligence|20}}.
The {{SmRarityItem|Orpheus, Prince of the Comet, Part One: Betrayal}} can be found on top of a bookshelf in the South-Eastern corner {{Coords|-31|-296}} and be read by [[Lae'zel]] to start the quest {{Quest|Discover the History of Prince Orpheus}}. If she is not available, it can be read after picking up {{SmRarityItem|The Careful Art of Tir'su Ciphers}} from the table near the elevator {{Coords|-32|-292}} and using it to read the disc (or after succeeding on a {{Ability check|Intelligence|20}}.


Lastly, there is an interactable button at the north-eastern corner of the tower that appears to do nothing when pressed. To make it work, the player will need to retrieve and equip the [[Dog Collar]] from a grave in [[Dread Hollow]] at {{coords|-41|-212}}, prior to interacting with it. Doing so will reveal that the button served as a food dispenser for Lenore's pet, Myrna, as a piece of [[Raw Steak]] appears. The player can only do this once.
Lastly, there is an interactable button at the north-eastern corner of the tower that appears to do nothing when pressed. To make it work, the party will need to retrieve and equip the {{SmRarityItem|Dog Collar}} from a grave in [[Dread Hollow]] at {{coords|-41|-212}}, prior to interacting with it. Doing so will reveal that the button served as a food dispenser for Lenore's pet, Myrna, as a piece of {{SmRarityItem|Raw Steak}} appears. The party can only do this once.


===The fourth floor (roof)===
===The fourth floor (roof)===
This floor can only be accessed by the restored elevator or by flying. Upon arriving at the floor, a dialogue will trigger with Bernard, who is standing guard by the elevator along with a group of [[Animated Armour]]s.   
This floor can only be accessed by the restored elevator or by flying. Upon arriving at the floor, a dialogue will trigger with {{CharLink|Bernard}}, who is standing guard by the elevator along with a group of [[Animated Armour]]s.   


Bernard speaks strictly in poetry, with the scattered lines found throughout the Arcane Tower serving as various command phrases for him. In the first meeting, if the player has read [[The Roads to Darkness]] and responds with ''"Or art though friend, a rescue from my lonely wake?"'' it prevents Bernard from becoming hostile and attacking. Successfully doing this grants the player 50 Experience points.   
Bernard speaks strictly in poetry, with the scattered lines found throughout the Arcane Tower serving as various command phrases for him. In the first meeting, if the party has read The Roads to Darkness and responds with ''"Or art though friend, a rescue from my lonely wake?"'' it prevents Bernard from becoming hostile and attacking. Successfully doing this grants the party 50 Experience points.   


Afterwards, the player will have several options/commands they can use with Bernard, depending on what they've read (see [[#Bernard's commands]]).
Afterwards, the party will have several options/commands they can use with Bernard, depending on what they've read (see [[#Bernard's commands]]).


The [[Guiding Light]] ring can be obtained by reciting ''"How can I trust? How will I ever know? / How can I show myself, my darkest me?"'' from the Threadbare Book on the first floor, or by destroying Bernard in combat. It cannot be pick-pocketed. Destroying Bernard (or commanding them to drop their weapon) will also grant the player the [[Light of Creation]] halberd - a strong weapon that has significant drawback.  
The {{SmRarityItem|Guiding Light}} ring can be obtained by reciting ''"How can I trust? How will I ever know? / How can I show myself, my darkest me?"'' from the Threadbare Book on the first floor, or by destroying Bernard in combat. It cannot be pick-pocketed. Destroying Bernard (or commanding them to drop their weapon) will also grant the party the {{SmRarityItem|Light of Creation}}.  


There is also a Lever next to a bookshelf on this roof, that can be noticed with a {{Ability check|Perception|18}}. This is an alternate way to open the wall in the first floor that leads to the basement.  
There is also a Lever next to a bookshelf on this roof, that can be noticed with a {{Ability check|Perception|18}}. This is an alternate way to open the wall in the first floor that leads to the basement.  


Lastly, there is a toppled stool of Hill Giant strength that the player and can sit on (after placing it back upright) and notice its magical effect. If they break the stool and pass the subsequent perception check, they can obtain the [[Club of Hill Giant Strength]].
Lastly, there is the [[Stool of Hill Giant Strength]] in the northeastern corner, behind the Animated Armour, that party members can sit on and notice its magical effect. If they break the stool and pass the subsequent perception check, they can obtain the {{SmRarityItem|Club of Hill Giant Strength}}.


=== The basement (secret room) ===
=== The basement (secret room) ===
[[File:Flying Secret.jpg|thumb|Flying down to the secret basement room. ]]
[[File:Flying Secret.jpg|thumb|Flying down to the secret basement room. ]]
The basement can only be accessed by using the restored elevator with the [[Guiding Light]] equipped, or by flying. When the player approach the elevator with the ring equipped, an additional "Basement" button will appear at the controls, which grants access to the secret room when interacted with.
There are several ways to access the basement: Using the '''elevator''' with the Guiding Light ring equipped (an additional "Basement" button will appear at the controls), by {{SAI|Fly}} or using {{SAI|Misty Step}} through a gap from the 1st level, by using {{SAI|Mage Hand}} to activate a lever under the staircase, by using a bow to activate the lever under the staircase through the staircase, or by activating the lever on the 4th floor hidden next to a bookshelf.
 
In the basement, aside from more {{SmRarityItem|Tongue of Madness}} and {{SmRarityItem|Timmask Spores (ingredient)|Timmask Spores}}, the party can also find the {{SmRarityItem|Staff of Arcane Blessing}} leaning against a table, {{SmRarityItem|The Sparkswall}} in a gilded chest, and an assortment of scrolls in the chest and various rows of books.
 
==Layout==
<section begin="layout"/>
{| class="wikitable"
|+Arcane Tower layout
!Level
!How to access
!Notable elements
|-
|{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(Ground_Floor)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} Ground floor (Generator)
|The exterior Garden can be access by '''flight''', '''jumping''' or '''teleporting''' on outside the tower. The locked 1st floor itself can be accessed by the '''Back Door''' or a '''Hole''' on the wall.
|Contains the generator that allows you to restore power to the tower. The elevator itself is located on a mezzanine, with the rest of the basement beneath it.
|-
|{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(1st_Floor)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} 1st Floor (Greenhouse)
|Can be reached by the '''elevator, flight,''' or by '''jumping''' or '''teleporting''' on the mushrooms on the tower exterior.
|Contains the '''quest related items''' {{SmRarityItem|Tongue of Madness}}, {{SmRarityItem|Timmask Spores (ingredient)|Timmask Spores}}). If the party don't want to explore the rest of the tower, they only have to visit this one floor.
|-
|{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(2nd_Floor)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} 2nd Floor (Main Entrance)
|Can be accessed by the '''Main Door'''. Or '''flight''' and '''elevator''' if approaching from another level.
|Contains the '''Chest of Mundane''' with {{SmRarityItem|Mystra's Grace}} + two [[Scrolls]]) and 2x [[Arcane Cannon|Arcane Cannons]].
|-
||{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(3rd_Floor)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} 3rd Floor (Bedroom)
|Can be reached by the '''elevator''' and/or '''flight'''.
|Contains key elements that allows the party to converse with Bernard and other constructs peacefully.
|-
||{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(4th_Floor)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} 4th Floor (Roof)
|Can be reached by the '''elevator''' and/or '''flight'''.  
|This level contains Bernard, and the {{SmRarityItem|Guiding Light}} ring which is one method to visit the basement.
|-
|{{Icon|link=Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(Basement)-0|Map Tutorial Map Icon.png|20}} Basement (Secret Room)
|Can be reached by the '''elevator''' with the {{SmRarityItem|Guiding Light}} ring equipped, by '''flying''' or using {{SAI|Misty Step}} through a gap from the 1st level, by using {{SAI|Mage Hand}} to activate a lever under the staircase, by using a bow to activate the lever under the staircase through the staircase, or by activating the lever on the 4th floor hidden next to a bookshelf. 
|Contains treasures - including the {{SmRarityItem|Staff of Arcane Blessing}}, {{SmRarityItem|The Sparkswall}}, and another set of the quest items Tongue of Madness, Timmask Spores).
|}<section end="layout" />


Alternatively, with access to flight, the player can take advantage of a gap between the first floor and basement stair well that will allow them to fly down to the secret floor without ever needing to interact with Bernard or getting the Guiding Light.
==Bernard's commands==
{{#lst:Bernard|bernardcommands}}


In the basement, aside from more [[Tongue of Madness]] and [[Timmask Spores]], the player can also find the [[Staff of Arcane Blessing]] leaning against a table, [[The Sparkswall]] in a gilded chest, and an assortment of scrolls in the chest and various rows of books.
== Characters ==
* {{MdCharLink|Bernard}}


=== Characters and creatures ===
== Creatures ==
* [[Bernard]]
* {{MdCharLink|Arcane Turret}}
* [[Arcane Cannon]]
* {{MdCharLink|Animated Armour}}
* [[Animated Armour]]


===Related quests===
==Related quests==
* [[Help Omeluum Investigate the Parasite]]
* {{Quest|Discover the History of Prince Orpheus}}
* [[Discover the history of Prince Orpheus]]
* {{Quest|Help Omeluum Investigate the Parasite}}


==Nearby locations==
==Nearby locations==
Line 116: Line 123:
To the east of the tower, this unnamed area of the Underdark has deep red mushroom clusters and spots of [[Torchstalk]] that cast floating embers into the air. The corpse of an unfortunate Drow can be found, having been killed by an unexpected fall.  
To the east of the tower, this unnamed area of the Underdark has deep red mushroom clusters and spots of [[Torchstalk]] that cast floating embers into the air. The corpse of an unfortunate Drow can be found, having been killed by an unexpected fall.  


The party can climb mushrooms along the wall to reach an upper level. Some of these mushrooms will be illusions that will de-materialise when stepped on or discovered with a {{Ability Check|Investigation|10}}. There are also two mushroom circles, on the upper level and below. These connect to each other, until the circle in the [[Overgrown Tunnel]] is used.
The party can climb mushrooms along the wall to reach an upper level. Some of these mushrooms will be illusions that will de-materialise when stepped on or discovered with a {{Ability Check|Investigation|10}}. There are also some mushroom circles, one behind an illusory wall, on the upper level and below. These connect to each other, until the circle in the [[Overgrown Tunnel]] is used. Then they can be used to travel to the Overgrown Tunnel near the the [[Riverside Teahouse]] and back.
 
On the upper level is an illusory wall which leads to another mushroom circle, connected to the circle outside the [[Riverside Teahouse]].


===Festering Cove===
===Festering Cove===
{{hatnote|Main article: [[The Festering Cove]]}}
{{hatnote|Main article: [[The Festering Cove]]}}
The Festering Cove is a partially hidden location on a separate Underdark map, containing the [[Kuo-toa]] worshipping their god, [[BOOOAL]]. It can be reached by climbing down the cragged rock in Torchstalk Gulch {{coords|80|-241}}.
The Festering Cove is a partially hidden location on a separate Underdark map, containing the [[Kuo-toa]] worshipping their god, {{CharLink|BOOOAL}}. It can be reached by climbing down the cragged rock in Torchstalk Gulch {{coords|80|-241}}.
 
==Bernard's commands==
{{#lst:Bernard|bernardcommands}}


==Notable loot==
==Notable loot==
Notable items obtained in this location, whether looted, purchased, or obtained as a quest reward:
Notable items obtained in this location, whether looted, purchased, or obtained as a quest reward:
* {{MdRarityItem|Skybreaker}} inside a locked chest in-front of the tower {{coords|27|298}}
* {{MdRarityItem|Skybreaker}} inside a locked chest in-front of the tower {{coords|27|298}}
===Fourth floor (roof)===
===Fourth floor (roof)===
* {{MdRarityItem|Club of Hill Giant Strength}} break the [[Stool of Hill Giant Strength]] on the 4th floor of the tower
* {{MdRarityItem|Guiding Light}} looted or gifted from Bernard after using the appropriate play line
* {{MdRarityItem|Light of Creation}} looted from Bernard (can also use {{SAI|Command: Drop}})
* {{MdRarityItem|Light of Creation}} looted from Bernard (can also use {{SAI|Command: Drop}})
* {{MdRarityItem|Guiding Light}} looted or gifted from Bernard after using the appropriate play line
* {{MdRarityItem|Club of Hill Giant Strength}} break the [[Stool of Hill Giant Strength]] on the 4th floor of the tower
===Third floor (bedroom)===
===Third floor (bedroom)===
* {{MdRarityItem|Mage's Friend}} in a chest at the foot of the bed on the 3rd floor
* {{MdRarityItem|Mage's Friend}} in a chest at the foot of the bed on the 3rd floor
===Second floor (main entrance)===
===Second floor (main entrance)===
* {{MdRarityItem|Chest of the Mundane}}, found on the southern balcony on the second floor (main entrance). It appears to contain worthless mundane items. If they are removed, or are in proximity to a [[Sussur Bloom]], the enchantment fails, and instead the items can be seen to be {{RarityItem|Mystra's Grace}} and some randomised loot, including two scrolls.
* {{MdRarityItem|Chest of the Mundane}}, found on the northern balcony on the second floor (main entrance). It appears to contain worthless mundane items. If they are removed, or are in proximity to a [[Sussur Bloom]], the enchantment fails, and instead the items can be seen to be {{MdRarityItem|Mystra's Grace}} and some randomised loot, including two scrolls.
 
===First Floor===
* {{MdRarityItem|Uncovered Mysteries}}
===Basement (secret room)===
===Basement (secret room)===
* {{MdRarityItem|Staff of Arcane Blessing}}  
* {{MdRarityItem|Staff of Arcane Blessing}}  
* {{MdRarityItem|The Sparkswall}}  
* {{MdRarityItem|The Sparkswall}}  
* {{MdRarityItem|Uncovered Mysteries}}
* [[Scrolls|Level 3 Spell Scroll]] (randomised)
* [[Scrolls|Level 3 Spell Scroll]] (randomised)


Line 157: Line 156:
* {{FRWiki|Arcane Tower|long}}
* {{FRWiki|Arcane Tower|long}}


[[Category:Locations]][[Category:Act One Locations]]
{{Underdark}}
[[Category:Locations]]
[[Category:Act One Locations]]

Latest revision as of 05:00, 16 November 2024

Underdark
Decrepit Village
Arcane Tower Selûnite Outpost
The Arcane Tower is a Location within the Underdark in Act One of Baldur's Gate 3. The tower overlooks the Ebonlake, and belongs to Lenore De Hurst, however, she has not returned home in over a decade.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Access[edit | edit source]

Approaching the Arcane Tower is made difficult by the Arcane Cannons protecting it. As a small location, reaching the staircase outside the tower grants 40 XP at Level 4, 80 XP at Level 5.

The area is divided roughly into the entry area, each floor of the tower, and the garden outside the bottom floor. Upon initial approach, the doors are shut and the central elevator is disabled, and floors must be accessed through other means.

The party can use the fungus platforms growing on the southern wall of the tower to jump their way down to the ground floor. It is a good idea to cast Feather Fall Feather Fall to prevent unnecessary fall damage. Alternatively, Flying or teleporting (via Misty Step Misty Step) will also get the party down without issues.

Ground floor (generator room)[edit | edit source]

To restore power to the tower - which will activate the elevator and deactivate the automated defences - the party will need to bring a Sussur Bloom to the power generator. Sussur Blooms can be found at the Garden just outside the door, or from the sussur tree in the Dread Hollow.

Interact with the Power Generator to bring up the crafting menu and use it to combine the machine with the Bloom. The tower will come to life, granting 25 experience and an Inspiration point for the Guild Artisan background. Once the generator is powered, the arcane cannons power down, the arcane braziers become lit, and the elevator can be used to ascend and descend between the floors.

First floor (greenhouse)[edit | edit source]

This floor can only be accessed by the restored elevator, by flying, or by using the platforms on the exterior fungus on the south side of the tower. This is a level that contains all the mushrooms required for the quest Help Omeluum Investigate the Parasite Help Omeluum Investigate the Parasite.

The other notable item on this floor is the Threadbare Book containing the phrase: "How can I trust? How should I know? How can I show myself, my darkest me?", which provides an additional option for interacting with Bernard Bernard on the roof.

Second floor (main entrance)[edit | edit source]

The main floor can be accessed directly through the front door of the tower, or via the elevator after it is powered. Opening the Main Door requires succeeding on a DC 15 Sleight of Hand check, or it can be broken down - it has Medium Toughness Medium Toughness and 36 hit points. Alternatively, there is a broken window to the left of the door that can be entered. Opening this door prior to the restoration of power will lead to a confrontation with two Arcane Cannons.

A dusty book can be found here. If read it changes its name to Evil's Ascent.

On the northern balcony is the Chest of the Mundane, which is revealed as magical with a successful Arcana check. Removing the clutter from the chest, or placing a Sussur Bloom near the chest (or vice versa), will dispel the illusion to reveal some scrolls and Mystra's Grace. The latter can provide the party an additional casting of Feather Fall Feather Fall which can help them avoid some damage trying to access the ground floor.

The southern balcony doesn't contain any notable items, but lets the party access the exterior fungus platforms to the lower levels.

Third floor (bedroom)[edit | edit source]

The Roads to Darkness book on Lenore's desk.

This floor can only be accessed by the restored elevator or by flying. This floor contains documents that the party should inspect prior to ascending to the fourth floor (roof), in order to have a peaceful interaction with Bernard.

Aside from the books, the magical ring Mage's Friend can also be looted on this floor in a wooden chest by the bed, at X: -29 Y: -273.

The Orpheus, Prince of the Comet, Part One: Betrayal can be found on top of a bookshelf in the South-Eastern corner X: -31 Y: -296 and be read by Lae'zel to start the quest Discover the History of Prince Orpheus Discover the History of Prince Orpheus. If she is not available, it can be read after picking up The Careful Art of Tir'su Ciphers from the table near the elevator X: -32 Y: -292 and using it to read the disc (or after succeeding on a DC 20 Intelligence check.

Lastly, there is an interactable button at the north-eastern corner of the tower that appears to do nothing when pressed. To make it work, the party will need to retrieve and equip the Dog Collar from a grave in Dread Hollow at X: -41 Y: -212, prior to interacting with it. Doing so will reveal that the button served as a food dispenser for Lenore's pet, Myrna, as a piece of Raw Steak appears. The party can only do this once.

The fourth floor (roof)[edit | edit source]

This floor can only be accessed by the restored elevator or by flying. Upon arriving at the floor, a dialogue will trigger with Bernard Bernard, who is standing guard by the elevator along with a group of Animated Armours.

Bernard speaks strictly in poetry, with the scattered lines found throughout the Arcane Tower serving as various command phrases for him. In the first meeting, if the party has read The Roads to Darkness and responds with "Or art though friend, a rescue from my lonely wake?" it prevents Bernard from becoming hostile and attacking. Successfully doing this grants the party 50 Experience points.

Afterwards, the party will have several options/commands they can use with Bernard, depending on what they've read (see #Bernard's commands).

The Guiding Light ring can be obtained by reciting "How can I trust? How will I ever know? / How can I show myself, my darkest me?" from the Threadbare Book on the first floor, or by destroying Bernard in combat. It cannot be pick-pocketed. Destroying Bernard (or commanding them to drop their weapon) will also grant the party the Light of Creation.

There is also a Lever next to a bookshelf on this roof, that can be noticed with a DC 18 Perception check. This is an alternate way to open the wall in the first floor that leads to the basement.

Lastly, there is the Stool of Hill Giant Strength in the northeastern corner, behind the Animated Armour, that party members can sit on and notice its magical effect. If they break the stool and pass the subsequent perception check, they can obtain the Club of Hill Giant Strength.

The basement (secret room)[edit | edit source]

Flying down to the secret basement room.

There are several ways to access the basement: Using the elevator with the Guiding Light ring equipped (an additional "Basement" button will appear at the controls), by Fly Fly or using Misty Step Misty Step through a gap from the 1st level, by using Mage Hand Mage Hand to activate a lever under the staircase, by using a bow to activate the lever under the staircase through the staircase, or by activating the lever on the 4th floor hidden next to a bookshelf.

In the basement, aside from more Tongue of Madness and Timmask Spores, the party can also find the Staff of Arcane Blessing leaning against a table, The Sparkswall in a gilded chest, and an assortment of scrolls in the chest and various rows of books.

Layout[edit | edit source]

Arcane Tower layout
Level How to access Notable elements
Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(Ground_Floor)-0 Ground floor (Generator) The exterior Garden can be access by flight, jumping or teleporting on outside the tower. The locked 1st floor itself can be accessed by the Back Door or a Hole on the wall. Contains the generator that allows you to restore power to the tower. The elevator itself is located on a mezzanine, with the rest of the basement beneath it.
Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(1st_Floor)-0 1st Floor (Greenhouse) Can be reached by the elevator, flight, or by jumping or teleporting on the mushrooms on the tower exterior. Contains the quest related items Tongue of Madness, Timmask Spores). If the party don't want to explore the rest of the tower, they only have to visit this one floor.
Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(2nd_Floor)-0 2nd Floor (Main Entrance) Can be accessed by the Main Door. Or flight and elevator if approaching from another level. Contains the Chest of Mundane with Mystra's Grace + two Scrolls) and 2x Arcane Cannons.
Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(3rd_Floor)-0 3rd Floor (Bedroom) Can be reached by the elevator and/or flight. Contains key elements that allows the party to converse with Bernard and other constructs peacefully.
Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(4th_Floor)-0 4th Floor (Roof) Can be reached by the elevator and/or flight. This level contains Bernard, and the Guiding Light ring which is one method to visit the basement.
Arcane_Tower_(Map)#(Basement)-0 Basement (Secret Room) Can be reached by the elevator with the Guiding Light ring equipped, by flying or using Misty Step Misty Step through a gap from the 1st level, by using Mage Hand Mage Hand to activate a lever under the staircase, by using a bow to activate the lever under the staircase through the staircase, or by activating the lever on the 4th floor hidden next to a bookshelf. Contains treasures - including the Staff of Arcane Blessing, The Sparkswall, and another set of the quest items Tongue of Madness, Timmask Spores).

Bernard's commands[edit | edit source]

Line Action Required book
"Or art thou friend, a rescue from my lonely wake?" Bernard will acknowledge the player character as their master, and remain passive. The Roads to Darkness (third floor / bedroom)
"How can I trust? How will I ever know? / How can I show myself, my darkest me?" Bernard will give Guiding Light to the player character. Threadbare Book (first floor / greenhouse)
"These empty sheets are all that's left of you. / The last of all the thoughtless gifts you gave." Bernard will give the player character a Potion of Greater Healing. Patched Parchment (table next to Bernard, forth floor)
"There is a light in every living thing. / It's crawling t'wards the surface to survive." Bernard and the nearby Animated Armours become hostile and attack. Evil's Ascent (second floor / main entrance, marked as Dusty Book before reading it)
"The silence stretches on - I'm all alone. / Please, can I hold your hands, for just a while?" Bernard will hug the player character and reassure them. It speaks as if the player character is Lenore. Torn-Out Paper (third floor / bedroom)


Characters[edit | edit source]

Creatures[edit | edit source]

Related quests[edit | edit source]

Nearby locations[edit | edit source]

View from the South

Torchstalk Gulch[edit | edit source]

To the east of the tower, this unnamed area of the Underdark has deep red mushroom clusters and spots of Torchstalk that cast floating embers into the air. The corpse of an unfortunate Drow can be found, having been killed by an unexpected fall.

The party can climb mushrooms along the wall to reach an upper level. Some of these mushrooms will be illusions that will de-materialise when stepped on or discovered with a DC 10 Investigation check. There are also some mushroom circles, one behind an illusory wall, on the upper level and below. These connect to each other, until the circle in the Overgrown Tunnel is used. Then they can be used to travel to the Overgrown Tunnel near the the Riverside Teahouse and back.

Festering Cove[edit | edit source]

Main article: The Festering Cove

The Festering Cove is a partially hidden location on a separate Underdark map, containing the Kuo-toa worshipping their god, BOOOAL BOOOAL. It can be reached by climbing down the cragged rock in Torchstalk Gulch X: 80 Y: -241.

Notable loot[edit | edit source]

Notable items obtained in this location, whether looted, purchased, or obtained as a quest reward:

  • Skybreaker inside a locked chest in-front of the tower X: 27 Y: 298

Fourth floor (roof)[edit | edit source]

Third floor (bedroom)[edit | edit source]

Second floor (main entrance)[edit | edit source]

  • Chest of the Mundane, found on the northern balcony on the second floor (main entrance). It appears to contain worthless mundane items. If they are removed, or are in proximity to a Sussur Bloom, the enchantment fails, and instead the items can be seen to be Mystra's Grace and some randomised loot, including two scrolls.

First Floor[edit | edit source]

Basement (secret room)[edit | edit source]

Notes[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]