The Absolute is a name well-known amongst players in Baldur's Gate 3, but the true effects and meaning of it are shrouded in mystery for anyone in the early game. Tossed back and forth by goblins and druids alike (though for different reasons), the curious soul might wish to reap the benefits of this Absolute figure for themselves.
After all, with so many items that require the Mark of the Absolute to use and so many potential dialogue options for those who bear the mark, who wouldn't be curious? Should that curiosity lead you to seek out the Absolute's blessing, this guide will tell you all you need to know.
Whispers Of The Absolute: The Druid's Grove
The first whispers of the Absolute come in two forms at the Druid's Grove:
- Through the special gloves gained from the Goblin Boss at the front gate
- Dialogue with the captured goblin held at crossbow-point
The gloves require the Mark of the Absolute to wield without penalties, and the imprisoned goblin, Sazza, mentions a reward given for those that help her and those that accept the Mark of the Absolute from the glorious Priestess Gut.
For those who don't wish to rely on Charisma (or who are not Drow in the literal or Disguised magic sense), you might wish to help the goblin break out of her prison. This may turn the druids against you, but it will give you a way into the Goblin Camp without a fight.
You can break Sazza out by lockpicking the door and safely leaving by climbing up (and jumping to) a nearby craggy rockface where a door leads to a cave with a goblin battle encounter. You'll need to escort Sazza safely through this battle and to the Goblin Camp.
Accepting The Mark Of The Absolute
The Goblin Camp lies far west of the Blighted Village. You must cross a series of bridges, one set of gate guards, a party of goblins celebrating with a bard and an owlbear cub, and another set of gate guards inside a large temple.
Priestess Gut is in the center of this temple's first large chamber. She can be seen giving blessings to goblins lined up before her. Speak with Priestess Gut, and she'll note that you're different from all the rest. You can respond with any of the first two dialogue options:
- Why should I let you brand me?
- I assume this mark has a purpose.
Regardless of your response, you'll be given a choice between allowing the priestess to brand you or not. Select:
Hold out your hand.
The priestess will then brand you, giving you the Mark of the Absolute. This mark will allow you to:
- Receive special dialogue and roleplay options
- Use Absolute-specific gear
- Achieve specific endings
There are no known active drawbacks to receiving this mark, though forced dialogues and disadvantages in certain conversations are known.
Once you have been branded, you can tell Priestess Gut about the worms in your head, and you'll be able to start a new questline with the priestess and adventure around the Goblin Camp freely with your new authority.