Do you want to rescue the gnome in Baldur's Gate 3? You'll stumble upon many folks in need as you explore the game and the world of Faerun. One of those hapless peeps is Barcus Wroot, who's been tied to a windmill that keeps spinning. Worse, he's also surrounded by a bunch of goblins.
This guide explains how you can avoid conflict to save the gnome in Baldur's Gate 3. We also note how you can stop the windmill, the reward you can obtain, and future interactions with Barcus Wroot.
How to rescue the gnome in Baldur's Gate 3
To rescue the gnome in Baldur's Gate 3, you must defeat or deceive the goblins, and then pull the correct lever. One false move or mishap and Barcus Wroot could end up in a world of hurt. But, first, let's talk about his location.
Where to find Barcus Wroot
You can find the gnome, Barcus Wroot, in the Blighted Village. Upon beating the scouts at the entrance to the Druid Grove, keep going west and cross the stone bridge. A goblin archer will tell you to halt, but you can convince them not to attack. There are Deception and Intimidation skill checks, as well as the option to use Illithid Wisdom, a telepathic power granted by the tadpole in your character's brain.
From there, continue to the right-hand side of the plaza until you see a group of goblins crowding around a windmill. Again, you can pick the dialogue options to make them go away, or you can fight them. Trying the Illithid Wisdom option won't work unless you've done a long rest. If you decide to fight them, however, be prepared for a bloodbath, since you'll be up against several warriors and their Worg pets.
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+ 2How to free Barcus Wroot from the windmill
After the goblins have left, whether through dialogue or battle, it's time to rescue the gnome in Baldur's Gate 3.
To do so, check the back of the windmill for two levers. You need to pull the one the brake lever (i.e., the one on the left). Pulling the other lever will toss the poor gnome high up into the air, never to be seen again.
Once the windmill has stopped, talk to Barcus Wroot and free him. He'll be thankful for your help. He'll be off on his own adventure now, though you'll see him in the future.
click to enlarge + 2Where to encounter Barcus Wroot in later chapters
We know of a few instances when you encounter Barcus Wroot later in the campaign:
- Grymforge - During Act 1, you can head through the Underdark to reach the Grymforge. If you can free the enslaved gnomes there, Barcus Wroot will happily thank you once more.
- Last Light Inn - Early in Act 2, you'll find a refuge called the Last Light Inn, which is defended by Jaheira, a returning character and potential companion. Barcus Wroot is also in this building, and he's selling some wares.
- Moonrise Towers - At the conclusion of Act 2, Barcus Wroot can be found in the central area of Moonrise Towers, among the combatants that took out the cultist army.
And that's it: that's everything you need to know about how to rescue the gnome in Baldur's Gate 3. Don't forget that there are a lot of adventures and objectives for you to tackle throughout your journey.
For more articles like this, take a look at our Guides and Baldur's Gate 3 page.