The Emperor in Baldur's Gate 3 is a mind flayer (illithid) who disguises himself as the "Dream Guardian" early in the game. In his true form, he stands about seven feet tall with a thin, muscular build, pale purple-gray skin, piercing yellow-purple eyes, and a signature cluster of tentacles framing his mouth. The Emperor’s physical features and background are defined by the following details: Facial Features: He lacks a nose and traditional human facial features, using the iconic writhing tentacles of an illithid to speak and consume. Attire: Instead of standard, rugged illithid rags, he wears a regal set of gold-trimmed, navy-colored garments and an elaborate, high-collared neck guard. True Identity: He was originally the legendary human/elven adventurer Balduran, the historical founder of Baldur's Gate. Evolution of Self: When discussing his body, he frequently rejects the idea of turning back into his former mortal self. He views his mind flayer biology as a superior "evolution" that removed human limitations and granted him vast psionic power.