How do I get the best ending for the harpers in Act 2 of Baldur's Gate 3?

To achieve the best ending for the Harpers in Act 2 of Baldur's Gate 3, you need to carefully navigate the story choices and combat encounters that directly impact their fate. The Harpers are a key faction in the game, and their survival and success are tied to your decisions during the Shadow-Cursed Lands arc. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to ensure the best outcome for them.

First, itÔÇÖs important to understand the mechanics involved. The Harpers are led by Jaheira, a returning character from previous BaldurÔÇÖs Gate games. Their primary goal in Act 2 is to combat the shadow curse and defeat the forces of Ketheric Thorm, the main antagonist of the act. Your choices in how you assist them, particularly during the assault on Moonrise Towers, will determine their fate. The game uses a combination of dialogue choices, combat outcomes, and quest progression to influence the HarpersÔÇÖ ending.

Step-by-step, hereÔÇÖs how to secure the best outcome for the Harpers. Begin by aligning yourself with them early in Act 2. When you arrive at Last Light Inn, speak with Jaheira and agree to help the Harpers in their mission. This will unlock several quests, including investigating the shadow curse and preparing for the assault on Moonrise Towers. Completing these quests thoroughly is crucial. For example, during the quest to lift the shadow curse, ensure you rescue the tieflings and other prisoners from Moonrise Towers. This not only strengthens your alliance with the Harpers but also provides additional allies for the final battle.

During the assault on Moonrise Towers, your combat tactics will play a significant role. The Harpers will join you in the fight, and their survival depends on your ability to protect them. Use area control spells like Wall of Fire or Spike Growth to funnel enemies into choke points, reducing the number of threats the Harpers face. Focus on eliminating high-priority targets such as spellcasters and archers first, as they can quickly overwhelm your allies. Additionally, make sure your party is well-equipped with healing potions and scrolls to keep the Harpers alive during the battle.

Important tips and considerations include managing your resources effectively. The assault on Moonrise Towers is a long and grueling battle, so conserve your spell slots and abilities for critical moments. Use short rests between waves of enemies to recover health and abilities. Also, consider bringing a character with high Charisma to persuade or intimidate enemies into surrendering, reducing the number of foes you need to fight.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting to rescue the prisoners or failing to protect Jaheira during the assault. If Jaheira dies, the HarpersÔÇÖ morale will plummet, and their chances of survival decrease significantly. Additionally, avoid rushing into the final battle without proper preparation. Ensure your party is well-rested and fully stocked with supplies before initiating the assault.

Advanced techniques or optimizations involve leveraging your partyÔÇÖs strengths to maximize efficiency. For example, a well-built Paladin or Fighter can serve as a frontline tank, drawing enemy attention away from the Harpers. A Wizard or Sorcerer can use crowd control spells to disable large groups of enemies, while a Cleric or Druid can provide healing and support to keep the Harpers in fighting shape. Additionally, consider using environmental hazards to your advantage, such as pushing enemies off ledges or into traps.

Related D&D rules and mechanics come into play during combat. Understanding action economy, such as the importance of using bonus actions and reactions effectively, can give you an edge. For example, a RogueÔÇÖs Cunning Action allows them to disengage or hide as a bonus action, keeping them safe while dealing damage. Similarly, a FighterÔÇÖs Action Surge can provide an extra attack, helping to quickly eliminate threats.

Specific examples and scenarios include the final confrontation with Ketheric Thorm. During this fight, the Harpers will assist you, but their survival depends on your ability to manage the battlefield. Focus on protecting Jaheira and other key Harper NPCs, as their presence can turn the tide of battle. Use crowd control spells to keep KethericÔÇÖs minions at bay while your party focuses on dealing damage to him.

In summary, achieving the best ending for the Harpers in Act 2 requires careful planning, strategic combat, and thoughtful decision-making. By aligning yourself with them early, completing their quests, and protecting them during the assault on Moonrise Towers, you can ensure their survival and success. Pay attention to combat tactics, manage your resources wisely, and leverage your partyÔÇÖs strengths to secure the best possible outcome for the Harpers.