You Can Easily Read the Necromancy of Thay in Baldur’s Gate 3

If you’re playing Baldur’s Gate 3 and want to read the Necromancy of Thay, there are a few things you should know. First, you’ll need to find the Dark Amethyst before you can open the book. Additionally, you’ll need to pass three difficult Wisdom checks to successfully read it. Keep in mind that once you read the book, you won’t be able to give it to your companions. However, there are some steps you can take to make the process easier. Let’s discuss whether you should read the Necromancy of Thay or give it to Gale.

If you successfully read the Necromancy of Thay, you’ll be rewarded with the Necromancy of Thay status effect. This allows you to cast Speak with the Dead once per long rest. It’s important to note that this status effect is permanent. However, if you fail a saving throw, you’ll receive the “Whisps of Madness” debuff for 50 turns, which gives you disadvantage on Wisdom ability checks. If you fail two saving throws, you’ll receive a permanent debuff called “Baleful Knowledge” that also gives you disadvantage on Wisdom ability checks.

Unfortunately, only your custom character can read the book. However, you can make it easier by using Shadowheart’s Resistance cantrip for saving throw checks. Her Guidance cantrip and Enhance Ability 2nd-level spell are effective for ability checks. I recommend saving before reading the Necromancy of Thay as the Wisdom checks can be challenging.

Steps to Read the Necromancy of Thay

1. Right-Click on the Necromancy of Thay book in your inventory.
2. Select the Read option.
3. Place the Dark Amethyst in the slot on the book’s cover.
4. Select the Open the book option.
5. Select the [Saving Throw] Turn to the next page option.
   1. You must make a DC 10 Wisdom Check to continue.
6. Select the [Saving Throw] Turn another page option.
   1. You must make a DC 15 Wisdom Check to continue.
7. Select the [Saving Throw] Urge your hand to turn another page option.
   1. You must make a DC 20 Wisdom Check to continue.

If you choose not to read the Necromancy of Thay and give it to Gale instead, there are a couple of things to consider. Giving the book to Gale will slightly increase his approval. Additionally, during the “magic item consume” scene when you next chat with Gale at your camp, there will be a more significant approval increase. However, Gale will not acquire the Necromancy of Thay status effect even if he briefly looks through the book.

Note: If you’re wondering how to get the Necromancy of Thay book, we have a guide available to walk you through the process!

How to Obtain the Dark Amethyst in Baldur’s Gate 3

Image: PC Invasion

To obtain the Dark Amethyst, head to the Whispering Depth and locate the mini-boss. The coordinates are X: -550 Y: -350. You can reach this area through the well in Blighted Village or via the smith’s basement to the right of the village’s main entrance. To access the basement, you can either lockpick the door or clear the web upstairs and jump into the hole. Once you’re in the basement, look for a hidden crumbling wall near the furnace. Use perception to reveal it and it will lead you to Whispering Depth.

Inside the Whispering Depth, shoot the cocoons and webs using a ranged weapon or spell until a fight begins. It’s advisable to rest after defeating all the enemies. As you progress, you’ll come across an area designed like a well with two levels and a mini-boss named the Phase Spider Matriarch. The Dark Amethyst is located on the lower level. You can choose to sneak past the spider or engage in battle, but be prepared as the fight may be challenging, especially if your party is at a low level.

Author’s Note: This guide was written while playing Baldur’s Gate 3 on Steam Deck.