Rescuing Tieflings from Moonrise Towers in BG3

In the shadowy depths of Baldur’s Gate 3’s Act 2, the Moonrise Towers stand as a foreboding stronghold controlled by the Absolute’s cultists. Among the many quests that define this chapter, the mission to liberate the imprisoned Tieflings emerges as a pivotal act of heroism. These refugees, familiar from earlier encounters at the Grove, now face captivity in the tower’s grim prison. Success here not only advances personal storylines but also strengthens alliances crucial for the game’s later stages.

Understanding the Quest’s Origins

The quest typically activates upon reaching the Last Light Inn, a rare sanctuary amid the Shadow-Cursed Lands. Conversations with surviving Tieflings like Alfira reveal the grim fate of their companions, including key figures such as Zevlor and Lakrissa. Captured during an ambush on their journey to Baldur’s Gate, they languish in Moonrise Towers’ cells. Alfira’s plea adds emotional weight, promising rewards for their safe return. This ties into broader narratives from Act 1, where aiding Tieflings builds rapport and unlocks dialogue options.

Parallel to this, players traversing the Underdark may encounter deep gnomes, including Wulbren Bongle, whose imprisonment intersects with the Tieflings’ plight. Rescuing Barcus Wroot earlier can trigger camp visits urging Wulbren’s freedom, creating a multi-faceted rescue operation.

Navigating to Moonrise Towers

Before delving into the prison, reaching Moonrise Towers demands preparation. Located southwest of the Last Light Inn, the path cuts through cursed shadows that drain health without protection like the Pixie Blessing. Aim for at least level 5, with strong armor and shadow resistance potions. As a True Soul (via the tadpole), dialogue can bypass patrols—select options affirming loyalty to the Absolute to avoid fights.

Key Preparation Tips:

• Stock moonlanterns or hire Thorm-inspired carriers to counter the curse.
• Scout with invisibility spells or stealthy rogues.
• Save before entering; multiple paths branch from here.

Locating the Prison Depths

Once inside the towers, the prison lies below the main audience chamber. Enter via the west door near coordinates X: -173 Y: -194, or sneak from the docks outside. Descend stairs to a hallway lined with cells. The Tieflings occupy the second cell on the right (Cell Four in some layouts), while deep gnomes like Wulbren are in Cell Two.

Alternative entries include following blood trails downward or jumping external platforms to access warden areas undetected. A rear cave system behind white stone piles offers a stealthy ledge jump—use Feather Fall or strength checks for access.

Stealthy Liberation Strategies

Freeing prisoners without combat preserves your True Soul cover. Start by misty stepping into gnome cells (timestamp 0:56 in guides) to converse and coordinate. Return Wulbren’s hammer from the equipment lockup—jump tower platforms to avoid guards. Signal him to breach the back wall, creating an escape tunnel while you ambush remaining threats.

In the warden’s office, levers control cell doors: individual pulls for specific cells, the floor lever for all (but it triggers alarms). Ambush the warden first, destroy scrying eyes to prevent reinforcements, then clear guards and orbs in cell blocks.

Combat-Heavy Approaches

For direct confrontation, clear docks guards post-escape to ensure safe boat departure. Ambush from shadows, prioritizing eyes and wardens. Thunder damage or bard songs can stun foes, buying time for prisoners. Protect gnomes during their breakout; they draw aggro effectively if coordinated.

Post-combat, escort to the pier. A boat awaits, leading back to Last Light Inn for Harper checks. Failures here can doom rescues—prioritize non-lethal takedowns if possible.

Potential Pitfalls and Timelines

Timing is critical: Entering the Shadowfell for Nightsong locks side quests, including this one. Complete before that popup warning. Late visits mean missed Tieflings, as quests auto-fail.

Common errors include alerting via scrying orbs, poor lever use, or neglecting equipment returns. If Wulbren dies, gnomes scatter; save-scum liberally.

Rewards and Long-Term Impacts

Successful rescues yield gold, gear from Alfira, and deepened Tiefling loyalty. Zevlor’s survival aids Act 3 plots, potentially unlocking vendor discounts or aid in battles. Wulbren’s freedom advances Ironhand Gnomes arc, offering explosives later.

Story branches: Siding fully with prisoners strains Absolute relations, easing defection paths.

Advanced Tactics for Perfectionists

Combine methods: Stealth to warden, levers for partial opens, then Wulbren tunnel. Use Knock spells on cells, or polymorph guards into harmless forms. Thunderwave through bars stuns without entry. For no-kill runs, push enemies off ledges or drown in docks.

Party comp: Rogue for locks, Wizard for misty step, Bard for buffs, Fighter for cleanup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rescue without fighting?

Yes, via levers, tunnels, and ambushes on isolated guards.

What if I fail the quest?

Tieflings perish; reload or accept storyline shifts.

Do I need Act 1 saves?

Helping Barcus/Alfira enhances rewards but not required.

Level recommendation?

5-7; higher eases combat.

Post-rescue boat issues?

Clear docks fully; escort manually if needed.