During Act 1 of Baldur’s Gate 3, you may find yourself speaking to an undead man named Withers. Withers challenges you to answer a simple question: “What is the worth of a single mortal life?” Here’s what can happen, depending on how you answer his strange query.
First off, there is no incorrect answer. No matter how you interact with Withers during this conversation, the outcome will be the same.
What happens if you attack Withers?
Before you answer the question, you can choose violence and just attack Withers. Doing so will enter a combat scenario with your entire party against Withers. However, you’ll find that you and your party deal no damage to him whatsoever. Withers won’t retaliate either, other than with sarcastic comments.
Speak to Withers again to end combat and resume your conversation. No harm done; it seems he’s a pretty forgiving guy.
All dialogue options
If you’re curious about Withers’ responses to each answer you give, here are some of the basic answers. There are even further ones, depending on your background, that can be offered as answers.
- No one life is worth more than any other. We are all equal.
–In death, that is so. - That depends on a person’s deeds.
-I am sure thou believest as such. - Life’s only value is as currency. Doesn’t matter to me otherwise.
-To some, it is the only currency. - Each life is of infinite value and merits sacrificing everything for.
-And thus balance is achieved. If all are at war, none can win. - The only life that matters is mine.
-At this particular junction, perhaps that is not so far from the truth. - Depends on the mortal.
-I am curious by what standards thou shalt judge.
Again, which option you choose has no bearing on the eventual outcome. Withers will appear in your camp to resurrect dead companions and help change your class — for a fee, of course.
