TL;DR
- Complete Open Hand Temple Murders first to unlock this Act 3 investigation quest
- Always create backup saves before entering Elfsong Tavern to prevent Devella bug issues
- Three NPCs can be saved with specific dialogue choices and combat preparation
- The killer Dolor reveals himself during Cora’s encounter and must be defeated
- Collect the handbag evidence to progress toward the Murder Tribunal storyline
Uncover the chilling mystery behind the Lower City murders in Baldur’s Gate 3’s third act. This complex investigation requires careful preparation and strategic decision-making to prevent additional deaths.
Before attempting this quest, ensure you’ve completed the Open Hand Temple Murders quest as it serves as the narrative foundation. Your investigation begins at Fraygo’s Flophouse in Rivington, where you’ll discover the killer’s target list and consult with Inspector Valeria about the escalating death toll.
The Lower City has become a hunting ground for a methodical killer.
When examining the kill list at Fraygo’s Flophouse, you’ll immediately recognize several high-profile victims. Duke Stelmane, formerly partnered with the Emperor, has been eliminated. Father Lorgan from the Open Hand Temple met a similar fate. Most gruesomely, Dribbles the Clown’s dismembered remains have been scattered throughout the city—you can learn more about collecting his parts in our Find Dribbles the Clown guide.
The killer’s methodology reveals a pattern: each victim has their hands removed as trophies. This macabre collection serves a dark purpose connected to a deity’s blessing. Understanding this pattern early helps anticipate future developments in the investigation.
Your primary objective becomes locating Gauntlet Devella at Elfsong Tavern, conveniently situated near the Basilisk Gate waypoint. However, this segment contains a notorious bug that can halt your progress completely. Implement these precautionary measures:
- Create multiple backup saves before approaching the tavern entrance
- Devella occupies the second-floor suite where Duke Stelmane was murdered
- Engage both Flaming Fist guards in conversation to gain upstairs access
- If the room appears empty upon entry, immediately reload your most recent save
- When successfully located, Devella will brief you on the investigation and assign warning duties
Critical Note: An alternative evil path exists where you eliminate the targets yourself, severing their hands as proof. This dark choice significantly impacts later narrative developments.
Proper save management prevents progression-blocking bugs with Devella.
Potential victims appear as marked icons on your map interface. While some targets like Alexander Rainforest and Franc Peartree are already deceased upon arrival, three individuals can be saved through precise intervention.
Chef Roveer
- Location: Elfsong Tavern Kitchen – accessible from the main tavern area
- Dialogue Approach: Inform him about his inclusion on the kill list
- Response Strategy: He’ll request basement rat extermination, which connects to the Emperor’s Hideout—a valuable side exploration opportunity
Cora Highberry
- Location: Wine Festival – typically crowded area requiring careful navigation
- Confrontation Tactics: Warning her triggers Dolor’s reveal; prepare for immediate combat against four duplicates
Figaro Pennygood
- Location: Facemaker’s Boutique – urban shop location
- Crisis Management: Arrive to find both Devella and Figaro paralyzed; immediate verbal intervention prevents the murder
From left to right: Figaro’s shop; Cora’s Wine Festival; Chef Roveer’s kitchen.
Following Dolor’s defeat, thoroughly search the area for valuable loot. The most significant item for investigation progression is a distinctive container holding your gruesome evidence: four severed hands—explaining the morbid “handbag” terminology.
Dolor stands responsible for all murders including Duke Stelmane, Father Lorgar, and the other NPC casualties. His hand collection represents an attempt to prove worthiness for divine favor from a deity you may already recognize. This evidence collection directly leads to your next major objective: locating the Murder Tribunal.
Baldur’s Gate 3 offers countless hours of immersive adventure with intricate quests and hidden secrets. For comprehensive gameplay assistance, explore our Complete Guide covering all aspects of your journey.
Action Checklist
- Complete Open Hand Temple Murders quest as prerequisite
- Visit Fraygo’s Flophouse to obtain kill list and consult Inspector Valeria
- Create backup saves before entering Elfsong Tavern
- Locate Gauntlet Devella on second floor, reload if missing
- Systematically warn and protect all three savable NPC targets
- Defeat Dolor and collect handbag evidence for Tribunal progression
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Baldur’s Gate 3 – Investigate The Murders Guide Master the murder investigation quest with expert strategies to save all potential victims and avoid common bugs