BG3 Save the Grymforge Gnomes Rescue Guide and Quest Steps

Rescuing the deep gnomes in Grymforge is one of the most critical and time-sensitive quests in Act 1 of Baldur's Gate 3. Trapped beneath a heavy cave-in under the watchful eye of True Soul Nere and ruthless Absolutist duergar, these captives require swift intervention. Navigating this scenario successfully demands careful preparation, smart tactical choices, and an understanding of how environmental triggers affect the outcome.

Reaching the Cave-In Site in Grymforge

Upon arriving at Grymforge via the Underdark boat, head toward the main excavation site where duergar guards are forcing gnome slaves to clear rubble. You will quickly notice that True Soul Nere is trapped behind the collapsed tunnel along with several gnomes. Time begins ticking as soon as you discover this situation, making long rests risky while the quest is active.

Taking a long rest or leaving the area multiple times while Nere is trapped will cause him and the enslaved gnomes to suffocate. To prevent this tragic outcome, avoid resting once you trigger the initial dialogue near the cave-in. Focus on gathering the necessary items to clear the rubble before taking further action.

Obtaining Explosives to Clear the Rubble

To clear the heavy stones blocking the tunnel, you need powerful explosives such as smokepowder satchels or runepowder. Speak with Philomeena, an escaped deep gnome hiding in a secluded chamber in the northeast section of Grymforge. If approached diplomatically, she will supply you with a vial of runepowder capable of blasting open the blockage.

Alternatively, you can throw standard smokepowder bombs directly at the cave-in if you already have them in your inventory. Place the explosive near the debris, instruct nearby NPCs to clear the area, and ignite it using fire damage. This action triggers the immediate rescue phase and brings True Soul Nere out from the cave.

Confronting True Soul Nere and the Duergar

Once the path is open, a tense confrontation begins between Nere, the duergar mercenaries, and your party. You can choose to side with Nere, turn against him, or convince certain duergar rebels to fight alongside you. Siding against Nere is essential if your main objective is saving the surviving gnome captives.

Before blowing up the rubble, speak with Elder Brithvar near the main chamber to broker a secret alliance against Nere. Turning half the duergar guards into allies significantly simplifies the upcoming battle. Focus on controlling the battlefield with area-of-effect spells to protect the innocent gnomes during combat.

Securing Freedom for the Deep Gnomes

After defeating Nere and his loyalists, speak with the remaining duergar leader or convince them to leave the gnomes behind. High persuasion or intimidation checks allow you to secure complete freedom for the surviving workers. Once released, the gnomes express their gratitude and share vital information about their kin.

Speaking with Barcus Wroot or Beldron after the battle opens up further narrative opportunities for Act 2. Ensuring their survival keeps key merchant options and story arcs available as you progress deeper into the Shadow-Cursed Lands. Planning your steps carefully guarantees a smooth victory and a successful rescue operation.