Finding He Who Was in Baldur's Gate 3 introduces players to one of the most morally complex side quests in Act 2. Located deep within the Shadow-Cursed Lands, this enigmatic NPC initiates the Punish the Wicked questline involving a deceased barmaid named Madeline. Understanding where to find him and how to navigate his dark ritual is crucial for completing this compelling storyline.
Where to Find He Who Was in BG3
He Who Was can be found in the Ruined Battlefield, northeast of the Last Light Inn. Players must cross a small wooden bridge and follow the pathway southeast to locate his campsite. He stands near a glowing ritual circle alongside a raven and the corpse of Madeline.
Starting the Punish the Wicked Quest
Interacting with He Who Was reveals that he is a Shadar-kai agent serving the Raven Queen. He seeks to execute justice by interrogating Madeline's spirit about her past crimes. To conduct the full trial, he tasks you with retrieving Madeline's Ledger from The Waning Moon tavern.
Retrieving Madeline's Ledger
Navigate southwest to the Waning Moon tavern located in the western portion of the shadow-cursed area. Inside, you will encounter Thisobald Thorm, whom you can deal with through drinking games or combat. Once he is defeated, check behind the bar counter under loose floorboards to secure the ledger.
Judging Madeline and Quest Outcomes
Return to He Who Was with the ledger to begin the necromantic trial. You can choose to force Madeline to stab herself, call her a coward, or forgive her actions. Punishing or shaming her rewards you with the Raven Gloves, while forgiving her enrages He Who Was and leads to a battle against him.
