Tower of Knowledge: Gargoyle Puzzle, Archives and Acid Vial

Which Gargoyles must you light inside the Tower?

The three outdoor island beacons unlock the building; they are separate from the numbered-statue balcony inside. On that balcony, read the plaques, including the partly hidden clue among rubble, and ignite Gargoyles 3 and 7 with Azure Torch. The correct pair opens an interior passage. Incorrect statues can provoke combat with attacking Gargoyles and Book Bugs, so random testing adds risk rather than bypassing the clue. Return through the newly opened door and continue to the next monument before climbing toward the upper fast-travel point and Wourha’s study. Leave resistant fleshy growths for after the boss.

How do you reach Budaen and the Forbidden Archives?

Climb the large staircase near Wourha’s study for the Storm Gem. This unlocks Endu’s Raging Tempest but does not open every nearby door. Look below the pickup platform for a lower opening or ledge reached with Wind Dash. Activate its switch to rotate the staircase, then follow the new alignment to an elevator. Ride down and speak to Budaen for the Forbidden Archives Key. Return toward the locked doors near the gem, open the Archives and save at the monument before the more demanding enemy sequence. The key comes from that conversation; repeatedly examining the upper locked doors before moving the stairs does not advance the route.

How do you defeat the boss and use its rewards?

Against the Necronomicon, keep distance from status-inflicting attacks and pressure the book with rechargeable throwing weapons. Move in for a brief melee opening when it falls, then disengage; prioritize avoiding attacks when the goat-like form appears. Create space before healing instead of drinking directly in front of a ranged attack. The recorded rewards are Acid Vial and Golden Duck Figurine, plus Hell Transcribed. The vial description says its acid is already on your basic throwing daggers: no manual vial equip is required. Hit the screaming faces and fleshy barriers with those daggers. Return toward Budaen’s area and clear the nearby growth to open the route toward Deimpo Mausoleum. Deliver the Golden Duck to Umbada to expand the shop.

Related guides

• Endu Shrine Gate Key: Underground Route and Elevator Exit
• Fast Travel: Crystal Fragments, Wing Altars and Return Routes
• Obmuer Temple Walkthrough: Slates, Keys and Dagoom