Should I Kill Or Feed The Newborn Mind Flayer?
This side quest in Act 3 of Baldur's Gate 3 is a real head-scratcher! You stumble upon a newborn Mind Flayer, and the Emperor's advice is kind of messed up - he wants you to eat its brain!
Where Can I Find This Newborn?
You'll find this little fella in a windmill on a grassy hillside in Rivington. There's a locked door, but you can get in with some Thieves' Tools or a hammer.
Why Should I Kill It?
- The Emperor says so: The Emperor, your "helpful" illithid guide, suggests you kill the newborn for a strength boost.
- It's a Mind Flayer! These things are not known for being cuddly.
- Convenient reward: You get an illithid power and a Ring of Truthfulness.
Why Should I Feed It?
- It's weak: The newborn is starving and weak, making it an easy target.
- Maybe it can be an ally: Who knows? Stranger things have happened in this game.
- The Emperor's advice is always a bit shady: Trust your gut. He's not exactly known for his kindness.
What If I Feed It?
The newborn will ask for a brain to eat. You can find some in a well in the center of Rivington (gross, but practical!). After eating, the newborn will give you an illithid power and a Ring of Thruthfulness, but then it goes on to terrorize the city and kill people!
What If I Kill It?
Killing the newborn is quick and easy, especially if you're already pretty strong. You'll get an illithid power and a Ring of Truthfulness, and you'll be saving some innocent lives.
So What Should I Do?
The choice is yours, and there's no "right" answer.
- If you're feeling merciful: Feed the newborn, even though it might have a nasty side effect later.
- If you're pragmatic: Kill it and get your reward.
- If you're a bit of a jerk: Feed it and let it terrorize the city, then kill it later.
This choice is a great example of how Baldur's Gate 3 makes you think about morality and consequences.