What happens if I let the Absolute control the Githyanki Creche in Baldur's Gate 3?

In Baldur's Gate 3, the Githyanki Creche is a significant location tied to the main story and the personal quest of Lae'zel, one of your companions. The Creche is a stronghold of the Githyanki, a race of fierce warriors who serve their lich queen, Vlaakith. The Absolute, a mysterious and powerful force in the game, seeks to exert control over various factions, including the Githyanki. Allowing the Absolute to control the Creche is a major story choice with far-reaching consequences.

To let the Absolute control the Githyanki Creche, you must first reach the Creche itself. This involves progressing through the main story until you reach the Mountain Pass area. The Creche is located in the Rosymorn Monastery, and you will need to navigate through various challenges, including combat encounters and puzzles, to gain access. Once inside, you will encounter the Githyanki leadership, including the Inquisitor, who is a key figure in the Creche.

The mechanics of allowing the Absolute to control the Creche involve making specific dialogue choices and taking certain actions during your interactions with the Githyanki. When you speak with the Inquisitor, you will be presented with options that can either align you with the Githyanki or with the Absolute. To side with the Absolute, you must choose dialogue options that indicate your willingness to submit to its influence. This may involve using your tadpole powers, which are a central element of the game's story, to demonstrate your connection to the Absolute.

One important tip is to ensure that your character has a high Charisma score or proficiency in Persuasion and Deception. These skills will help you navigate the dialogue options more effectively and increase your chances of successfully convincing the Githyanki to submit to the Absolute. Additionally, having Lae'zel in your party can be beneficial, as her knowledge of Githyanki culture and her personal stakes in the situation can influence the outcome.

A common mistake to avoid is being too aggressive or confrontational with the Githyanki. While they are a warlike race, they respect strength and cunning. If you come across as weak or indecisive, they may turn against you. It is also important to avoid revealing too much about your own intentions or the nature of your tadpole, as this can lead to suspicion and hostility.

Advanced techniques involve using your tadpole powers strategically. For example, using the "Illithid Persuasion" option in dialogue can give you an edge in convincing the Githyanki to submit to the Absolute. Additionally, if you have invested in the "Tadpole Powers" skill tree, you can unlock abilities that enhance your influence over others, making it easier to sway the Githyanki to your side.

From a D&D rules perspective, the interactions with the Githyanki and the Absolute involve skill checks, particularly Persuasion and Deception. These checks are influenced by your character's abilities and any bonuses you may have from items or spells. The game also incorporates the concept of alignment, as your choices can shift your character's moral compass and affect how other characters perceive you.

A specific example of this choice in action is when you confront the Inquisitor. If you successfully persuade him that the Absolute is the true power to be followed, he may order the Creche to submit, leading to a significant shift in the story. This can result in the Githyanki becoming allies of the Absolute, which can have implications for future encounters and the overall narrative.

In summary, allowing the Absolute to control the Githyanki Creche is a complex and impactful decision that requires careful navigation of dialogue and strategic use of your character's abilities. By focusing on Charisma-based skills, using your tadpole powers wisely, and understanding the Githyanki culture, you can achieve this outcome and shape the story in a unique way.