Baldurs Gate 3 introduces players to numerous mysterious characters throughout the Underdark, but few are as tragic or intricate as Bernard. Located at the apex of the Arcane Tower, this magical automaton guards the secrets of its creator, Lenore De Hurst. Approaching this construct without proper preparation often results in a swift and devastating battle for unprepared parties.
Finding the Required Poetry Books
Before attempting to speak with the mechanical guardian, you must thoroughly explore the various levels of the Arcane Tower. Lenore left several books and play scripts scattered across shelves and tables that contain the exact passphrases Bernard recognizes. Opening and actively reading these volumes unlocks unique dialogue choices that completely change your interaction with the construct.
Key texts include the Threadbare Book and the Roads to Darkness script, which are located on the middle floors of the structure. Missing even a single volume limits your conversational options and potentially triggers defensive protocols. Gathering these literary clues allows you to peacefully navigate the encounter without drawing your weapons.
Choosing the Peaceful Dialogue Lines
When you first confront the automaton, it will greet you with a cryptic verse expecting a proper theatrical response. Selecting the dialogue choice starting with Or art thou friend, a rescue from my lonely dread satisfies its initial command programming. This line identifies you as a peaceful visitor rather than a hostile intruder looking to plunder the tower.
Following this successful prompt, you can choose to recite other verses discovered during your thorough exploration of the rooms below. Choosing the correct lines prompts the guardian to offer a warm embrace or hand over helpful items. This non-violent path reveals deep lore regarding Lenore’s isolation and her relationship with her creations.
Unlocking Hidden Rewards and Secrets
Interacting with Bernard using poetry grants immediate access to rare treasures hidden within the magical complex. Reciting the line How can I trust? How will I ever know? coaxes the automaton into placing a powerful ring on the table. This specific item reveals a hidden elevator button that descends into the lowest basement laboratory.
The secret level contains valuable weapons, alchemy ingredients, and deeper backstory documents regarding Mystra’s local clergy. Players who prefer a peaceful playstyle can walk away with these rewards while keeping the tower defenses entirely intact. Navigating the conversation properly ensures your party reaps maximum benefits with minimal resource expenditure.
Handling the Alternative Combat Route
If your party composition favors direct conflict, specific dialogue choices will instantly turn the construct and his armor allies hostile. Selecting lines that express confusion or open aggression overrides the peaceful parameters and initiates a challenging boss fight. Defeating the mechanical squad allows you to loot Bernard's body for the Light of Creation halberd.
While the combat route yields powerful martial equipment, it permanently cuts off the emotional storytelling tied to the script choices. Players must weigh the benefit of earning powerful gear against losing the subtle narrative experience Lenore left behind. Whichever path you choose, understanding the underlying script ensures you dictate the outcome of this memorable encounter.
