The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Love and Power in Baldur's Gate 3
Romancing the Emperor in Baldur's Gate 3 may seem unusual, but it's possible with the right choices Protect him, accept his offer to evolve, discover his past lover, hold his hand during a long rest, and take one more long rest to unlock an intimate scene
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Protect The Emperor In The Act 2 to Act 3 IntermissionAccept The Emperor's Offer To Evolve Into A Half-Illithid
Visit The Emperor's Old Hideout To Discover His Past Lover
During The Next Long Rest, Hold The Emperor's Hand
To Unlock the Emperor Sex Scene, Rest Once More for Extra Long
Protect The Emperor In The Act 2 to Act 3 Intermission
Players can engage in a captivating Mind Flayer romance by selecting the correct dialogue options, safeguarding the Emperor during battles, and delving into their intriguing history. For those who are not fond of tentacles, there is a fortunate twist: if requested, the Emperor will transform into their Dream Guardian form during the intimate encounter.
Once players have triumphed over Ketheric Thorm, the formidable foe, and successfully restored the Shadow-Cursed Lands to their former glory, their next destination is a set of ancient ruins situated just outside the gates of Baldur's Gate. This location serves as the backdrop for the captivating sequence that unfolds between Act 2 and Act 3. During this pivotal moment, players are transported back into the mystical realm of The Artifact, assuming the role of its protector, as the relentless Githyanki invaders threaten to harm the revered Dream Guardian's existence.
Upon arrival, players are in for a surprise: the supposed Dream Guardian is revealed to be none other than a Mind Flayer known as The Emperor. Contrary to its name, The Emperor's title is not derived from holding any governmental authority but stems from their extensive trade alliances of the past.
In this crucial sequence, players must align themselves with The Emperor and rally to its defense against the Githyanki Monks, who aim to release Orpheus from captivity. Following the intense battle, engage in a conversation with The Emperor once more, opting for amicable dialogue choices to receive an Astral-Touched Tadpole as a reward.
Accept The Emperor's Offer To Evolve Into A Half-Illithid
The Astral-Touched Tadpole offers a unique opportunity for a partial transformation into an Illithid, without undergoing the full Ceremorphosis. Players who acquire the Astral Tadpole will undergo cosmetic changes and gain access to additional Illithid Powers and abilities. However, it's important to note that the other members of the party and most companions at camp will likely be disgusted by your choice, as they may not be prepared for what lies ahead.
In order to build a romantic relationship with the Emperor and experience a sex scene with the Dream Guardian, choosing to take this Tadpole can greatly increase your favor with the Emperor. However, it should be noted that this option is only a backup plan. As long as you protect the Emperor and select favorable choices during the introductory dialogue (such as forgiving them for their deceit with the Dream Guardian's appearance), your relationship should be strong enough to progress to the next stage without relying on the Tadpole. If the next stage doesn't trigger, you can then choose to undergo the transformation and subsequently Long Rest once more.
Visit The Emperor's Old Hideout To Discover His Past Lover
Underneath the Elfsong Tavern, specifically located beneath the Kitchen, players will come across a secret entrance that leads to the hideout where the Emperor used to reside. Prior to becoming a Mind Flayer, the Emperor led an ordinary life and underwent a transformation known as Ceremorphosis at Moonrise Towers. Liberating themselves from the control of the Elder Brain, the Emperor settled down in Baldur's Gate and became a successful trader.
Inside the hideout, players will stumble upon various belongings of the Emperor's past, including their former sword, disguise kit, and memories of their ex-lover, Duke Stelmane. Following this, it is advised to take a Long Rest in preparation for the next scene depicting the relationship dynamics.
During The Next Long Rest, Hold The Emperor's Hand
After ingesting the Astral-Touched Tadpole and uncovering the Emperor's hidden history at the Elfsong Tavern, players will once again find themselves in the Astral Prism. This time, the Emperor reveals its true form without any pretense. Amidst this encounter, both the player and the Emperor engage in reminiscing about the Illithid's previous existence and past romantic connections. Gradually, continue seeking information about their relationship until the dialogue presents the opportunity to hold hands with the Emperor. Opt for this choice to progress towards a more intimate moment with the Emperor.
To Get The Emperor Sex Scene, Take One More Long Rest
After the dream sequence where players hold hands with The Emperor, they need to take an additional Long Rest to unlock the Emperor's intimate scene. During this time, the Emperor displays more direct interest, deviating from the typical mind flayer behavior. It prompts players to question if the Emperor is flirting with them and encourages them to reciprocate. Following this exchange, the Emperor offers a choice: engaging in lovemaking without altering its form or incorporating the players' designed Dream Guardian forms.
Players must decide between the two options (or save separately to experience both) and witness the unfolding of the romantic encounter. Surprisingly, despite involving a Mind Flayer, it is one of the milder scenes in the game. It merely includes levitation, a glimpse of a tentacle, and requires players to solve the challenge of kissing a Mind Flayer in the first place.
Baldur's Gate 3 is available for PC and PlayStation 5. A version for Xbox Series X|S is currently in development.
