Can I save Mayrina from Ethel in Baldur's Gate 3?

Saving Mayrina from Auntie Ethel in Baldur's Gate 3 is a challenging but rewarding task that requires careful planning, strategic combat, and thoughtful decision-making. This quest, known as "Save Mayrina," is part of the larger narrative involving the hag Ethel and her lair in the Sunlit Wetlands. To successfully save Mayrina, you need to navigate through a series of encounters, make key choices, and defeat Ethel in her lair. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to achieve this.

First, you need to locate Mayrina. She is found in the Sunlit Wetlands, which is accessible after exploring the Blighted Village and the surrounding areas. Once you enter the wetlands, you will encounter Ethel disguised as a kind old woman. She will try to deceive you, but if you pass certain skill checks, such as Insight or Perception, you can see through her disguise. This is crucial because it allows you to understand her true nature and prepare for the confrontation ahead.

After confronting Ethel, she will retreat to her lair, and you will need to follow her. The entrance to her lair is hidden behind an illusionary wall, which can be revealed by passing a Perception check or by interacting with the environment. Once inside, you will face various traps and enemies, including Redcaps and other creatures under EthelÔÇÖs control. ItÔÇÖs important to proceed cautiously, using stealth and detection spells like Detect Magic or See Invisibility to avoid traps and ambushes.

When you reach the main chamber, you will find Mayrina trapped in a cage. Ethel will offer you a deal: she will release Mayrina if you let her go. This is a critical decision point. If you accept her deal, Mayrina will be freed, but Ethel will escape, potentially causing more harm in the future. If you refuse, you will have to fight Ethel, which is the only way to truly save Mayrina and end EthelÔÇÖs threat.

The combat with Ethel is challenging. She is a powerful hag with abilities like Invisibility, Polymorph, and various damaging spells. To defeat her, you need to focus on disabling her abilities and dealing consistent damage. Use spells like Faerie Fire or See Invisibility to counter her Invisibility. Crowd control spells like Hold Person or Sleep can also be effective. Additionally, focus on dealing damage quickly, as she can heal herself and summon reinforcements.

One common mistake is underestimating EthelÔÇÖs abilities and not preparing adequately. Make sure your party is well-rested and has plenty of healing potions and spell slots. ItÔÇÖs also important to position your party strategically, using the environment to your advantage. For example, you can use high ground for ranged attacks or chokepoints to limit EthelÔÇÖs movement.

Advanced techniques include using environmental hazards to your benefit. EthelÔÇÖs lair has several traps and hazards that can be turned against her. For example, you can lure her into areas with explosive mushrooms or use the terrain to create bottlenecks. Additionally, using summoned creatures or familiars can help distract Ethel and absorb some of her attacks.

In terms of D&D rules, EthelÔÇÖs abilities are based on the hag stat block from the 5th Edition Monster Manual. She has high AC, resistances, and powerful spells, making her a formidable opponent. Understanding her abilities and weaknesses is key to defeating her. For example, she is vulnerable to certain damage types and can be affected by conditions like Fear or Charm.

Specific examples of successful strategies include using a well-balanced party with a mix of melee and ranged attackers. A Paladin or Fighter can tank her attacks, while a Wizard or Sorcerer can deal high damage with spells. A Cleric or Druid can provide healing and support, ensuring your party stays alive during the fight.

In conclusion, saving Mayrina from Ethel requires careful planning, strategic combat, and thoughtful decision-making. By understanding the mechanics, preparing adequately, and using advanced techniques, you can successfully rescue Mayrina and defeat Ethel. This not only impacts the story but also provides valuable rewards and experience, making it a worthwhile endeavor in BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3.