Dragon Age Wiki
Register
Dragon Age Wiki
(→‎Approval: Note on companions' approval)
Tags: Visual edit apiedit
mNo edit summary
Tag: Source edit
(44 intermediate revisions by 23 users not shown)
Line 13: Line 13:
 
|cullen_time = Instant
 
|cullen_time = Instant
 
|cullen_result =
 
|cullen_result =
|location = [[Skyhold]], [[Crestwood]], [[Western Approach|The Western Approach]], [[Adamant Fortress]], [[The Fade]]
+
|location = [[Skyhold]]<br>[[Crestwood]]<br>[[Western Approach|The Western Approach]]<br>[[Adamant Fortress]]<br>[[The Fade]]
 
|start = [[Skyhold]]
 
|start = [[Skyhold]]
 
|end = [[Adamant Fortress]]
 
|end = [[Adamant Fortress]]
 
|previous = [[From the Ashes]]
 
|previous = [[From the Ashes]]
|next = [[What Pride Had Wrought]]
+
|next = [[Wicked Eyes and Wicked Hearts]] or [[What Pride Had Wrought]]
 
|related = [[Fears of the Dreamers]]<br>[[Broken Window]]
 
|related = [[Fears of the Dreamers]]<br>[[Broken Window]]
 
|appearances = [[Dragon Age: Inquisition]]
 
|appearances = [[Dragon Age: Inquisition]]
 
}}</onlyinclude>
 
}}</onlyinclude>
   
'''Here Lies the Abyss''' is a [[Quests (Inquisition)|main quest]] in ''[[Dragon Age: Inquisition]]''.
+
'''Here Lies the Abyss''' is a [[Main quests (Inquisition)|main quest]] in ''[[Dragon Age: Inquisition]]''.
   
{{Blockquote|[[Varric Tethras|Varric]] has a friend named [[Hawke]], who fought [[Corypheus]] once before and now fears [[Grey Wardens]] are under the influence of the ancient [[darkspawn]]. Hawke has a Warden contact who may be able to say more.}}
+
{{Blockquote|''[[Varric Tethras|Varric]] has a friend named [[Hawke]], who fought [[Corypheus]] once before and now fears [[Grey Wardens]] are under the influence of the ancient [[darkspawn]]. Hawke has a Warden contact who may be able to say more.''}}
   
 
The quest plays out across several locations in [[Thedas]].
 
The quest plays out across several locations in [[Thedas]].
Line 42: Line 42:
 
[[File:Hawke's-Potential-Grey-Warden-Friends.png|thumbnail|250px|Hawke's Grey Warden contact: Stroud, Alistair, or Loghain]]
 
[[File:Hawke's-Potential-Grey-Warden-Friends.png|thumbnail|250px|Hawke's Grey Warden contact: Stroud, Alistair, or Loghain]]
   
The village of Crestwood turns out to be besieged by the [[undead]]. The Inquisitor is likely to meet a pair of Grey Wardens protecting an elven girl named [[Jana]] from the undead. At the end of the fight they will mention they are hunting a renegade Grey Warden (Hawke's Warden ally), and will leave the scene. The Inquisitor may locate Jana again in a small house farther along the road. Impressed by the Wardens' prowess Jana will be tempted to join the order, but the Inquisitor has a chance to change her mind. The decision will have an impact later in the quest. The Inquisitor may encourage her to join the Wardens or dissuade her (if [[Solas]] is in the party, he may help in this process), in which case she will become an [[agent]] for the Inquisition.
+
The village of Crestwood turns out to be besieged by the [[undead]]. The Inquisitor is likely to meet a pair of Grey Wardens protecting an elven girl named [[Jana]] from the undead. At the end of the fight they will mention they are hunting a renegade Grey Warden (Hawke's Warden ally), and will leave the scene. The Inquisitor may locate Jana again in a small house farther along the road. Impressed by the Wardens' prowess, Jana will be tempted to join the order, but the Inquisitor has a chance to change her mind. The decision will have an impact later in the quest. The Inquisitor may encourage her to join the Wardens or dissuade her (if [[Solas]] is in the party, he may help in this process), in which case she will become an [[agent]] for the Inquisition.
   
Outside of the village of Crestwood, near Three Trout Farm Camp, in a smuggler's den once held by The Blind Men, the Inquisitor will meet Hawke's Warden ally. Depending on the player's decisions in ''[[Dragon Age: Origins]]'' the Warden ally will be either [[Stroud]], [[Alistair]], or [[Loghain Mac Tir]].
+
Outside of the village of Crestwood, near Three Trout Farm Camp, in a smuggler's den once held by The Blind Men, the Inquisitor will meet Hawke's Warden ally. Depending on the player's decisions in ''[[Dragon Age: Origins]],'' the Warden ally will be either [[Alistair]], [[Loghain Mac Tir]], or [[Stroud]]. The Warden ally will be Alistair if he remained a Grey Warden, Loghain if he survived [[The Landsmeet]] and the [[Fifth Blight]], or Stroud otherwise (Loghain is dead and Alistair is either dead or no longer a Grey Warden).
   
 
The Warden ally informs the Inquisitor that the situation is dire: all Wardens have been summoned to [[Orlais]] by Warden-Commander [[Clarel]] in one last desperate attempt to end all [[Blight]]s forever, but he suspects some form of foul play involving Corypheus. This is because all Wardens in Orlais have simultaneously begun to hear what they believe to be the call of the [[Archdemon]], the precursor to [[The Calling]]. In an attempt to prevent a new [[Blight]], Warden-Commander Clarel suggested a drastic strategy of using blood magic and demons to make a final stand in the [[Deep Roads]] and end all Blights forever. The Warden ally too experienced this call but loudly protested Clarel's plan. The Warden mages immediately claimed he was interfering and decried him as a traitor, forcing him into exile.
 
The Warden ally informs the Inquisitor that the situation is dire: all Wardens have been summoned to [[Orlais]] by Warden-Commander [[Clarel]] in one last desperate attempt to end all [[Blight]]s forever, but he suspects some form of foul play involving Corypheus. This is because all Wardens in Orlais have simultaneously begun to hear what they believe to be the call of the [[Archdemon]], the precursor to [[The Calling]]. In an attempt to prevent a new [[Blight]], Warden-Commander Clarel suggested a drastic strategy of using blood magic and demons to make a final stand in the [[Deep Roads]] and end all Blights forever. The Warden ally too experienced this call but loudly protested Clarel's plan. The Warden mages immediately claimed he was interfering and decried him as a traitor, forcing him into exile.
Line 60: Line 60:
   
 
[[File:Here Lies the Abyss Quest Tower ritual Image.png|thumbnail|250px|The Binding Ritual]]
 
[[File:Here Lies the Abyss Quest Tower ritual Image.png|thumbnail|250px|The Binding Ritual]]
Once in the Western Approach, the Inquisitor may travel to the ancient Ritual Tower, and meet Hawke and the Warden ally there. They will inform the Inquisitor that the Wardens within the tower have already begun their ritual. As the party enters the Watchtower, they will find a group of Wardens lead by [[Livius Erimond]], a [[Venatori]] [[magister]]. It is revealed that [[Livius Erimond|Erimond]] is working for Corypheus, and has manipulated the Grey Wardens into willingly performing the ritual. The blood magic, in fact, binds each Warden Mage that performs it (by killing a Warden warrior) to a demon. This would transform the order into a demon army capable of entering the [[Deep Roads]], fighting the [[darkspawn]], and eventually kill the [[Old Gods]] as they sleep, thus preventing any future Blight. However, the ritual has another side effect: enslaving the demon-bound Wardens to Corypheus. Erimond will also reveal the nature of the Inquisitor's mark (the Anchor), as a means to safely cross [[the Veil]].
+
Once in the Western Approach, the Inquisitor may travel to the ancient Ritual Tower, and meet Hawke and the Warden ally there. They will inform the Inquisitor that the Wardens within the tower have already begun their ritual. As the party enters the Watchtower, they will find a group of Wardens lead by [[Livius Erimond]], a [[Venatori]] [[magister]]. It is revealed that [[Livius Erimond|Erimond]] is working for Corypheus, and has manipulated the Grey Wardens--in particular the Warden mages, who are particularly vulnerable to his influence--into willingly performing the ritual. The blood magic, in fact, binds each Warden Mage that performs it (by killing a Warden warrior or, likely, rogue) to a demon. The mages themselves are effectively enslaved by Erimond and not in control of themselves, while remaining rogues and warriors appear to have retained their minds while still being vulnerable to the false [[Calling]].
   
  +
Binding demons to the Warden mages would transform the order into a demon army capable of entering the [[Deep Roads]], fighting the [[darkspawn]], and eventually kill the [[Old Gods]] as they sleep, thus preventing any future Blight. However, the ritual has another side effect: enslaving the demon-bound Wardens to Corypheus. Erimond will also reveal the nature of the Inquisitor's mark (the Anchor), as a means to safely cross [[the Veil]].
{{Note|The Inquisitor may investigate Erimond's motives; certain questions may yield approval and potential humorous responses by [[Solas]], [[Varric]] and [[Dorian]], if they are present.}}
 
  +
 
{{Note|The Inquisitor may investigate Erimond's motives; certain questions may yield approval and potential humorous responses by [[Solas]], [[Varric Tethras|Varric]] and [[Dorian]], if they are present.}}
   
 
Erimond attempts to subdue the Inquisitor, but is thwarted by the Anchor. As Erimond flees the scene, the Inquisitor is left facing the demons and Wardens that had already performed the ritual. After the fight, Hawke and the Warden ally will regroup with the party. A brief dialogue on the reasons behind the use of blood magic by the Wardens gives their perspective on the situation. Trying to justify the Wardens as being misled will cause [[Solas]] to disapprove and [[Blackwall]] to approve, if present.
 
Erimond attempts to subdue the Inquisitor, but is thwarted by the Anchor. As Erimond flees the scene, the Inquisitor is left facing the demons and Wardens that had already performed the ritual. After the fight, Hawke and the Warden ally will regroup with the party. A brief dialogue on the reasons behind the use of blood magic by the Wardens gives their perspective on the situation. Trying to justify the Wardens as being misled will cause [[Solas]] to disapprove and [[Blackwall]] to approve, if present.
Line 77: Line 79:
 
[[File:Heres Lies the Abyss Quest Image 2.png|thumbnail|250px|The Inquisition and the Grey Wardens face off]]
 
[[File:Heres Lies the Abyss Quest Image 2.png|thumbnail|250px|The Inquisition and the Grey Wardens face off]]
   
{{Note|The next part of the quest involves entering The Fade. Taking [[Solas]] with you will lead to additional insights due to his unique familiarity with The Fade. Additionally taking [[Cassandra Pentaghast|Cassandra]] will lead to additional dialog about [[Divine]] [[Justinia V]]. Also note that it is impossible to change your party after entering Adamant Fortress. Furthermore inventory can not be stored or sold; prior to starting the quest it is recommended to free up inventory space to avoid overload.}}
+
{{Note|The next part of the quest involves entering The Fade. Taking [[Solas]] and [[Cole]] with you will lead to additional commentary and dialogue due to their familiarity with The Fade. Additionally, taking [[Cassandra Pentaghast|Cassandra]] will lead to additional dialog about [[Divine]] [[Justinia V]]. Also note that it is impossible to change your party after entering Adamant Fortress. Furthermore, inventory can not be stored or sold; prior to starting the quest it is recommended to free up inventory space to avoid overload.}}
   
 
Upon entering Adamant the Inquisitor is faced with a massive battle. The Inquisition's forces assault the fortress and batter their way inside. The Inquisitor and their companions enter the fray.
 
Upon entering Adamant the Inquisitor is faced with a massive battle. The Inquisition's forces assault the fortress and batter their way inside. The Inquisitor and their companions enter the fray.
Line 85: Line 87:
   
 
==== Main Bailey ====
 
==== Main Bailey ====
In the Main Bailey, the Inquisitor stumbles upon a fight among Grey Wardens. A few Warden warriors have refused to be sacrificed for the blood magic ritual, and are fighting off a group of spellbound Wardens and Shades. After the battle the remaining Wardens can be told to surrender or fall back to safety. If they fall back they will not initiate further conflicts with enemies. If the Inquisitor remains silent with Blackwall in the party, he will convince them to fight alongside the Inquisition. Head through the door to the south.
+
In the Main Bailey, the Inquisitor stumbles upon a fight among Grey Wardens. A few Warden warriors have refused to be sacrificed for the blood magic ritual, and are fighting off a group of spellbound Wardens and Shades. After the battle, the remaining Wardens can be told to surrender or fall back to safety. If they fall back they will not initiate further conflicts with enemies. If the Inquisitor remains silent with Blackwall in the party, he will convince them to fight alongside the Inquisition. Head through the door to the south.
   
 
{{Note|A [[Supply Cache]] is available in this area.}}
 
{{Note|A [[Supply Cache]] is available in this area.}}
Line 111: Line 113:
 
{{Note|The [[Shield of the Anointed]] and a random amount of gold can be found at the bottom of these stairs.}}
 
{{Note|The [[Shield of the Anointed]] and a random amount of gold can be found at the bottom of these stairs.}}
   
Next, the party should head west, through a set of three doors, back to the Main Bailey, where they will meet a group of Inquisitor (possibly lead by Hawke) fighting a Rage Demon.
+
Next, the party should head west, through a set of three doors, back to the Main Bailey, where they will meet a group of Inquisition soldiers (possibly lead by Hawke) fighting a Rage Demon.
   
 
{{Note|A Supply Cache is found in this area.}}
 
{{Note|A Supply Cache is found in this area.}}
Line 119: Line 121:
 
[[File:Here Lies the Abyss Quest Image 3.png|thumbnail|250px|The Wardens call the [[Nightmare (demon)|Nightmare]] through a [[Fade rift]]]]
 
[[File:Here Lies the Abyss Quest Image 3.png|thumbnail|250px|The Wardens call the [[Nightmare (demon)|Nightmare]] through a [[Fade rift]]]]
   
In the main courtyard Erimond is revealed at last, presiding over Clarel's sacrifice to bind a demon to her. If [[Jana]] was not recruited as an agent of the Inquisition earlier in Crestwood, she will be the sacrifice; otherwise it will be another Grey Warden. The ritual will be interrupted by the Inquisitor, who will try to explain how the Wardens are being enslaved to Corypheus. If Blackwall is in the party, the Inquisitor may ask him to speak to the Wardens (Blackwall, Iron Bull and Sera approve). An additional dialogue option is available if the [[Inquisition perks|History Knowledge perk]] was acquired. (Solas and Dorian will slightly disapprove and Iron Bull will approve.)
+
In the main courtyard Erimond is revealed at last, presiding over Clarel's sacrifice to bind a demon to her. If [[Jana]] was not recruited as an agent of the Inquisition earlier in Crestwood, she will be the sacrifice; otherwise it will be an elder Grey Warden warrior or rogue. The ritual will be interrupted by the Inquisitor following the sacrifice, who will try to explain how the Wardens are being enslaved to Corypheus. If Blackwall is in the party, the Inquisitor may ask him to speak to the Wardens (Blackwall, Iron Bull and Sera approve). An additional dialogue option is available if the [[Inquisition perks|History Knowledge perk]] was acquired. (Solas and Dorian will slightly disapprove and Iron Bull will approve.) However, if you were able to convince the Wardens in the Main Bailey to fall back, a dialogue option comes up where you can convince the remaining the Wardens to doubt Erimond (This garners Cole's Approval), and the assembled non-mage Wardens will speak up at this point, noting that their mage friends are acting strangely, even hostile.
   
 
The Inquisition claims and especially the mention of Corypheus seem to move Clarel, who starts doubting Erimond. The Venatori Magister then calls forth Corypheus's dragon to attack the Inquisitor. At this point, Clarel understands Erimond's deception. She will order the Wardens in the yard to help the Inquisitor and pursue the fleeing Erimond.
 
The Inquisition claims and especially the mention of Corypheus seem to move Clarel, who starts doubting Erimond. The Venatori Magister then calls forth Corypheus's dragon to attack the Inquisitor. At this point, Clarel understands Erimond's deception. She will order the Wardens in the yard to help the Inquisitor and pursue the fleeing Erimond.
Line 140: Line 142:
 
[[File:Spirit The Breach.PNG|thumb|Divine Justinia V, the woman in The Breach]]
 
[[File:Spirit The Breach.PNG|thumb|Divine Justinia V, the woman in The Breach]]
   
Shortly thereafter, the group will reach a clearing where [[Nightmare (demon)|Nightmare]] detects them. It will talk to the party with Corypheus' voice, taunting them. A group of Shades and Wraiths appears at the bottom of the stairs.
+
Shortly thereafter, the group will reach a clearing where [[Nightmare (demon)|Nightmare]] detects them. It will talk to the party with Corypheus' voice, taunting them with remarks personalized to each companion's character and background. A group of Shades and Wraiths appears at the bottom of the stairs.
   
 
{{Note|Below the stairs where Nightmare speaks, the Inquisitor can pick up the flowers for the [[Fears of the Dreamers]] quest. They can be placed in a vase across the clearing, granting +1 Constitution.}}
 
{{Note|Below the stairs where Nightmare speaks, the Inquisitor can pick up the flowers for the [[Fears of the Dreamers]] quest. They can be placed in a vase across the clearing, granting +1 Constitution.}}
Line 148: Line 150:
 
Next the party will face attack by giant spiders called [[Fearling]]s. They have names such as "Mages," "Templars," "The Blight" etc. which are related to codex entries found in the area describing the fears of various people around Thedas.
 
Next the party will face attack by giant spiders called [[Fearling]]s. They have names such as "Mages," "Templars," "The Blight" etc. which are related to codex entries found in the area describing the fears of various people around Thedas.
   
The main path continues eastward, while a secondary path leads north to a circular dead-end. Along the way, the Inquisitor can inspect the effigy of a burning man (a [[Rage demon]] will spawn and attack), and hear more of Nightmare's taunts directed to the member of the party. The dead-end presents an Eluvian mirror that will grant +1 Cunning but spawn two Rage demons and a group of Wraths when inspected. Another group of Wraths with a Rage demon will ambush the group on their way back to the main path.
+
The main path continues eastward, while a secondary path leads north to a circular dead-end. Along the way, the Inquisitor can inspect the effigy of a burning man (a [[Rage demon]] will spawn and attack), and hear more of Nightmare's taunts directed to the members of the party. The dead-end presents an Eluvian mirror that will grant +1 Cunning but spawn two Rage demons and a group of Wraths when inspected. Another group of Wraths with a Rage demon will ambush the group on their way back to the main path.
   
 
Back on the main path eastward, after dealing with more spiders (and Nightmare's taunts), the party will encounter the Divine again. She can be questioned further, and instructs the Inquisitor to battle more demons to recover more memories. There is a supply chest nearby to restock potions. Wraiths can be battled for further memories, which reveal greater information.
 
Back on the main path eastward, after dealing with more spiders (and Nightmare's taunts), the party will encounter the Divine again. She can be questioned further, and instructs the Inquisitor to battle more demons to recover more memories. There is a supply chest nearby to restock potions. Wraiths can be battled for further memories, which reveal greater information.
Line 197: Line 199:
 
''If the Wardens are exiled'': The Grey Wardens will leave Orlais, thus leaving the Empire without any Warden presence. The sequence of war table operations beginning with [[Investigate Val Gamord]] becomes available.
 
''If the Wardens are exiled'': The Grey Wardens will leave Orlais, thus leaving the Empire without any Warden presence. The sequence of war table operations beginning with [[Investigate Val Gamord]] becomes available.
   
{{Note|If the Wardens are exiled, [[Blackwall]] regardless of being in the original party will ask to stay on, the option is given to exile him as well. If [[Loghain Mac Tir|Loghain]] is the surviving Warden ally that is exiled and had a child with [[Morrigan]], he will ask [[The Inquisitor]] to: "Say goodbye to the witch for me."}}
+
{{Note|If the Wardens are exiled, [[Blackwall]] regardless of being in the original party will ask to stay on, the option is given to exile him as well. If [[Loghain Mac Tir|Loghain]] or [[Alistair]] is the surviving Warden ally that is exiled and had a child with [[Morrigan]], he will ask [[The Inquisitor]] to pass on some words to her.}}
   
 
''If the Wardens join the Inquisition'': The Grey Wardens will remain and rebuild their order, joining the forces at Skyhold. The series of war table operations beginning with [[Protect Val Gamord from Darkspawn]] becomes available.
 
''If the Wardens join the Inquisition'': The Grey Wardens will remain and rebuild their order, joining the forces at Skyhold. The series of war table operations beginning with [[Protect Val Gamord from Darkspawn]] becomes available.
Line 210: Line 212:
 
{{Note|Additional dialog in regards to [[Divine]] [[Justinia V]] can be initiated with [[Vivienne]], if she was not in the party.}}
 
{{Note|Additional dialog in regards to [[Divine]] [[Justinia V]] can be initiated with [[Vivienne]], if she was not in the party.}}
 
{{Note|Additional dialog in regards to [[Divine]] [[Justinia V]] can be initiated with [[Leliana]].}}
 
{{Note|Additional dialog in regards to [[Divine]] [[Justinia V]] can be initiated with [[Leliana]].}}
{{Note|Additional dialog in regards to [[Loghain Mac Tir|Loghain's]] exile or sacrifice can be initiated with [[Morrigan]], pending they had a child together.}}
+
{{Note|Additional dialog in regards to [[Loghain Mac Tir|Loghain]]'s exile or sacrifice can be initiated with [[Morrigan]], pending they had a child together.}}
   
 
== Rewards ==
 
== Rewards ==
Line 230: Line 232:
 
* 200 Influence
 
* 200 Influence
 
* 2 Power
 
* 2 Power
* {{:Amulet of Power|style=iconmini}} for [[Blackwall]]
+
* {{:Amulet of Power|style=iconmini}} ''([[Blackwall]] only)''
   
 
=== The Fade ===
 
=== The Fade ===
Line 251: Line 253:
 
{{Note|Sera's disapproval will be higher if Blackwall is exiled with the Wardens. Her disapproval for exiling the Wardens can be offset completely by allowing Blackwall to stay. Many other disapproval hits can be offset by conversations in Skyhold immediately after this quest.}}
 
{{Note|Sera's disapproval will be higher if Blackwall is exiled with the Wardens. Her disapproval for exiling the Wardens can be offset completely by allowing Blackwall to stay. Many other disapproval hits can be offset by conversations in Skyhold immediately after this quest.}}
   
  +
{{Note|Varric only approves or disapproves if he's in the active party. He greatly disapproves if Hawke is left behind and he's in the active party. He also greatly approves/disapproves depending on whether Blackwall gets exiled or not. So if Hawke is left behind and Blackwall is exiled, Varric will greatly disapprove twice. Varric's approval doesn't seem to be about if you exile the Wardens or not.}}
 
{| class="daotable"
 
{| class="daotable"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 322: Line 325:
 
:A battle will start immediately after this conversation. When the demons and Wardens are killed, this next conversation will begin:
 
:A battle will start immediately after this conversation. When the demons and Wardens are killed, this next conversation will begin:
   
:'''Hawke: Oh, of course. It's not real blood magic until someone gets sacrificed.'''
+
:'''Hawke: Of course. Sacrificed in the ritual. What a waste./Oh, of course. It's not real blood magic until someone gets sacrificed./Sacrificed? I knew the Wardens would go too far.'''
* They were misled. - {{Approval3|Blackwall Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Dorian Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Solas Slightly Disapproves}}
+
::* They were misled. - {{Approval3|Blackwall Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Dorian Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Solas Slightly Disapproves}}
 
::* How could they do this? - {{Approval3|Dorian Approves}}, {{Approval3|Cassandra Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Cole Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Iron Bull Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Vivienne Slightly Approves}},{{Approval3|Varric Slightly Approves}}
 
::* How could they do this? - {{Approval3|Dorian Approves}}, {{Approval3|Cassandra Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Cole Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Iron Bull Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Vivienne Slightly Approves}},{{Approval3|Varric Slightly Approves}}
 
::* They've gone too far. - {{Approval3|Cole Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Iron Bull Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Approves}}
   
::*They've gone too far. - {{Approval3|Cole Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Iron Bull Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Approves}}
 
 
''Adamant''
 
''Adamant''
   
Line 334: Line 337:
 
*Blackwall? - {{Approval3|Blackwall Approves}}, {{Approval3|Sera Approves}}, {{Approval3|Iron Bull Approves}}
 
*Blackwall? - {{Approval3|Blackwall Approves}}, {{Approval3|Sera Approves}}, {{Approval3|Iron Bull Approves}}
 
*[[Inquisition perks|History Knowledge perk]] - {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Iron Bull Approves}}, {{Approval3|Dorian Slightly Disapproves}}, {{Approval3|Solas Slightly Disapproves}} (regardless if he is in the party or not)
 
*[[Inquisition perks|History Knowledge perk]] - {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Iron Bull Approves}}, {{Approval3|Dorian Slightly Disapproves}}, {{Approval3|Solas Slightly Disapproves}} (regardless if he is in the party or not)
*''(Special)'' I've spared some of you! ''(only if the ''Fall back to safety ''option was chosen with the group of Wardens in the Main Bailey)'' - {{Approval3|Cole Greatly Approves}}
+
*''(Special)'' I've spared some of you! ''(only if the ''Fall back to safety ''option was chosen with the group of Wardens in the Main Bailey)'' - {{Approval3|Cole Greatly Approves}}, {{Approval3|Cassandra Slightly Approves}}
   
 
''In the Fade''
 
''In the Fade''
Line 347: Line 350:
 
:::'' (other choices have no approval change.)''
 
:::'' (other choices have no approval change.)''
 
:* Why do demons serve Corypheus? - {{Approval3|Solas Slightly Approves}},{{Approval3|Cole Slightly Approves}}
 
:* Why do demons serve Corypheus? - {{Approval3|Solas Slightly Approves}},{{Approval3|Cole Slightly Approves}}
::* How do we get home? - {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Approves}}
+
::* How do we get home? - {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Approves}}{{Approval3|Cole Slightly Approves}}
 
::* Oh, crap - {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Disapproves}}, {{Approval3|Iron Bull Slightly Approves}}
 
::* Oh, crap - {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Disapproves}}, {{Approval3|Iron Bull Slightly Approves}}
 
::* Can it be killed? - {{Approval3|Solas Disapproves}}, {{Approval3|Cassandra Slightly Disapproves}}, {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Approves}}
 
::* Can it be killed? - {{Approval3|Solas Disapproves}}, {{Approval3|Cassandra Slightly Disapproves}}, {{Approval3|Sera Slightly Approves}}
Line 357: Line 360:
   
 
'''When Hawke and the Warden are arguing:'''
 
'''When Hawke and the Warden are arguing:'''
* Stop, both of you - {{Approval3|Sera Approves}}
 
:* Now is not the time - {{Approval3|Sera Approves}}
 
 
:* Hawke is right - {{Approval3|Blackwall Disapproves}}
 
:* Hawke is right - {{Approval3|Blackwall Disapproves}}
  +
:* Stroud/Alistair/Loghain is right - {{Approval3|Blackwall Slightly Approves}}
  +
:* Maker, stop, both of you - {{Approval3|Sera Approves}} (available only to a Faithful Inquisitor)
 
:* Now is not the time - {{Approval3|Sera Approves}}
   
 
== [http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Divine_election Divine Election] ==
 
== [http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Divine_election Divine Election] ==
Line 376: Line 380:
   
 
== Codex entries ==
 
== Codex entries ==
''Found in [[The Raw Fade]]''<br>
+
''Found in [[The Raw Fade (Inquisition)|The Raw Fade]]''{{Clrl}}
{{:Codex entry: A Letter by a Burning Candle|style=iconmini}}<br>
+
{{:Codex entry: Fears of the Dreamers|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
{{:Codex entry: A Plea from the Warrior to the Spirits|style=iconmini}}<br>
+
{{:Codex entry: The Keepers of Fear|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
{{:Codex entry: Fears of the Dreamers|style=iconmini}}<br>
+
{{:Codex entry: The Laws of Nature in the Fade|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
{{:Codex entry: The Keepers of Fear|style=iconmini}}<br>
+
{{:Codex entry: A Letter by a Burning Candle|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
{{:Codex entry: The Laws of Nature in the Fade|style=iconmini}}<br>
+
{{:Codex entry: Nightmare (Inquisition)|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
{{:Codex entry: Walking the Fade: A Harrowing|style=iconmini}}<br>
+
{{:Codex entry: A Plea from the Warrior to the Spirits|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
{{:Codex entry: Walking the Fade: Frozen Moments|style=iconmini}}<br>
+
{{:Codex entry: Walking the Fade: Frozen Moments|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
{{:Codex entry: Nightmare (Inquisition)|style=iconmini}}<br>
+
{{:Codex entry: Walking the Fade: A Harrowing|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
   
== Other texts ==
+
=== Other texts ===
 
''Found at the [[Landmarks in the Approach#Ritual Tower|Ritual Tower]] in the [[Western Approach]]''<br />
{{Note|These are not included in the Codex}}
 
 
{{:Note: A Letter Found on a Grey Warden Mage|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
''Found in [[The Raw Fade]]''<br>
+
''Found in [[The Raw Fade (Inquisition)|The Raw Fade]]''<br />
* [[Note: The Birth of Fear]]
 
* [[Note: The Claws of Dumat]]
+
{{:Note: The Birth of Fear|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
  +
{{:Note: The Claws of Dumat|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
* [[Note: Excerpt from a Journal]]
+
{{:Note: Excerpt from a Journal|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
* [[Note: The Birth of Fear|Note: Letter in a Child's Simple Writing]]
 
* [[Note: A Letter Written in A Shaking Hand]]
+
{{:Note: A Letter Written in A Shaking Hand|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
* [[Note: Memories Etched in Stone and Blood]]
+
{{:Note: Memories Etched in Stone and Blood|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
* [[Note: A Note Left by a Burning Candle]]
+
{{:Note: A Note Left by a Burning Candle|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
* [[Note: The Temple of Dumat]]
+
{{:Note: The Temple of Dumat|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
* [[Note: Whispers Written in Red Lyrium]]
+
{{:Note: Whispers Written in Red Lyrium|style=iconmini}}{{Clrl}}
''Found at the Ritual Tower in the [[Western Approach]]''<br>
 
{{:Note: A Letter Found on a Grey Warden Mage|style=iconmini}}<br>
 
   
 
== Bugs ==
 
== Bugs ==
Line 417: Line 419:
 
== Notes ==
 
== Notes ==
 
* If Alistair was [[Romance (Origins)|romanced]] in ''Dragon Age: Origins'' he will speak happily of his life with [[The Warden|The Hero of Ferelden]]. He will also mention that she would have been present during the quest had she not been pursuing her own quest, that of saving herself and Alistair—and possibly all Wardens—from the Calling.
 
* If Alistair was [[Romance (Origins)|romanced]] in ''Dragon Age: Origins'' he will speak happily of his life with [[The Warden|The Hero of Ferelden]]. He will also mention that she would have been present during the quest had she not been pursuing her own quest, that of saving herself and Alistair—and possibly all Wardens—from the Calling.
* Speaking with either Alistair, Leliana or Morrigan, depending on who was romanced in ''Dragon Age: Origins'' and whether Alistair is present or not, after the quest will unlock [[war table]] operation [[Contact Hero of Ferelden]] and provide additional information about the The Warden.
+
* Speaking with either Alistair, Leliana or Morrigan, depending on who was romanced in ''Dragon Age: Origins'' and whether Alistair is present or not, after the quest will unlock [[war table]] operation [[Contact Hero of Ferelden]] and provide additional information about the Warden.
 
* It is useful to, soon after this quest completes, to create a new character of any type and re-watch the introductory videos as they give a somewhat different version of the events in the Fade. In the Here Lies The Abyss version, the Inquisitor is chased up the stairs by the spiders, looks back to the physical version of Justinia, reaches out ''to her'', Justinia falls back and the Inquisitor goes forward into the veil tear. In the opening sequence, when the Inquisitor runs up the stairs, the white ghost version of Justinia is ahead and above the Inquisitor, Justinia reaches out ''to the Inquisitor'', the anchor flashes and the screen does a white-out. The positions of the two characters are reversed between the two depictions of what is supposedly the same event and each has a different ending.
 
* It is useful to, soon after this quest completes, to create a new character of any type and re-watch the introductory videos as they give a somewhat different version of the events in the Fade. In the Here Lies The Abyss version, the Inquisitor is chased up the stairs by the spiders, looks back to the physical version of Justinia, reaches out ''to her'', Justinia falls back and the Inquisitor goes forward into the veil tear. In the opening sequence, when the Inquisitor runs up the stairs, the white ghost version of Justinia is ahead and above the Inquisitor, Justinia reaches out ''to the Inquisitor'', the anchor flashes and the screen does a white-out. The positions of the two characters are reversed between the two depictions of what is supposedly the same event and each has a different ending.
  +
** Also, in the quest version, the Inquisitor wears whatever armor they are wearing in the Fade when they escape the spiders, whereas in the introductory videos, they wear the starting armor.
 
* Although you can target the Red Lyrium dragon, it will always have 1 hp remaining.
 
* Although you can target the Red Lyrium dragon, it will always have 1 hp remaining.
* [[Gregory Dedrick]] can be conscripted to join Grey Warden ranks if you haven't judged him.
+
* [[Gregory Dedrick]] can be conscripted to join Grey Warden ranks if you haven't judged him yet.
  +
* In the Fade, Justinia says that the anchor can only be removed by killing the Inquisitor, however, this is contradicted by the ending of [[Trespasser]].
   
 
== Trivia ==
 
== Trivia ==
Line 426: Line 430:
 
* If Blackwall is taken to meet the Warden Ally in Crestwood, Blackwall will claim to have known [[Duncan]], the Ferelden Warden-Commander in ''Dragon Age: Origins''.
 
* If Blackwall is taken to meet the Warden Ally in Crestwood, Blackwall will claim to have known [[Duncan]], the Ferelden Warden-Commander in ''Dragon Age: Origins''.
 
* [[Patrick Weekes]] was the main writer for this quest.<ref>[http://www.nerdappropriate.com/2014/12/31/rated-na-184-inside-inquisition-with-patrick-weekes/ Nerd Appropriate with Patrick Weekes].</ref>
 
* [[Patrick Weekes]] was the main writer for this quest.<ref>[http://www.nerdappropriate.com/2014/12/31/rated-na-184-inside-inquisition-with-patrick-weekes/ Nerd Appropriate with Patrick Weekes].</ref>
* If the Inquisitor uses tactical view, the "Fearlings" that are encountered each have different names, such as "War", "Poverty", "Pestilence", Etc. Amusingly, encountered in the "Find a way to keep monsters away" area of the "[http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Fears_of_the_Dreamers Fears of the Dreamers] " side quest, one of the Fearlings bears the name "Ironically, Spiders".
+
* If the Inquisitor uses tactical view, the "Fearlings" that are encountered each have different names, such as "War", "Poverty", "Pestilence", etc. Amusingly, encountered in the "Find a way to keep monsters away" area of the [[Fears of the Dreamers]] side quest, one of the Fearlings bears the name "Ironically, Spiders".
* In [[Dragon Age 2]] [[Flemeth]] says to [[Hawke]]: "The world fears the inevitable plummet into the [[Void|abyss]]. Watch for that moment... and when it comes, do not hesitate to leap. It is only when you fall that you learn whether you can fly." During the quest [[the Inquisitor]] and Hawke are falling into the Abyssal Rift when the Inquisitor opens a [[Fade rift]] for them to leap into only to find themselves in the realm of [[Nightmare (demon)|Nightmare]] inhabited by [[fearling]]s.
+
* In ''[[Dragon Age 2]]'', [[Flemeth]] says to [[Hawke]]: "The world fears the inevitable plummet into the [[Void|abyss]]. Watch for that moment... and when it comes, do not hesitate to leap. It is only when you fall that you learn whether you can fly." During the quest [[the Inquisitor]] and Hawke are falling into the Abyssal Rift when the Inquisitor opens a [[Fade rift]] for them to leap into only to find themselves in the realm of [[Nightmare (demon)|Nightmare]] inhabited by [[fearling]]s.
 
* In the Fade, gravestones can be found engraved with each of your companions' names and fears. They read as follows: Iron Bull: Madness; Vivienne: Irrelevance; Varric: Becoming His Parents; Cassandra: Helplessness; Blackwall: Himself; Dorian: Temptation; Sera: The Nothing; Cole: Despair; Solas: Dying Alone.
 
* In the Fade, gravestones can be found engraved with each of your companions' names and fears. They read as follows: Iron Bull: Madness; Vivienne: Irrelevance; Varric: Becoming His Parents; Cassandra: Helplessness; Blackwall: Himself; Dorian: Temptation; Sera: The Nothing; Cole: Despair; Solas: Dying Alone.
 
{{SpoilerDAI|
 
{{SpoilerDAI|
* In an earlier version of this quest, the writers intended for the player to meet [[The Architect]] here.<ref>[https://twitter.com/VGS_640/status/606267717973204992 VGS_640 Twitter].</ref>
+
* In an earlier version of this quest, the writers intended for the player to meet [[The Architect]].<ref>{{Twitter|author=[[Patrick Weekes]]|url=https://twitter.com/VGS_640/status/606267717973204992}}</ref>
 
}}
 
}}
  +
 
== References ==
 
== References ==
 
<references />
 
<references />
  +
  +
<!--Interwiki links-->
  +
[[de:Hier wartet der Abgrund]]
  +
  +
<!--Categories-->
 
[[Category:Dragon Age: Inquisition quests]]
 
[[Category:Dragon Age: Inquisition quests]]
 
[[Category:Dragon Age: Inquisition main quests]]
 
[[Category:Dragon Age: Inquisition main quests]]

Revision as of 04:37, 20 October 2020

Here Lies the Abyss is a main quest in Dragon Age: Inquisition.

Varric has a friend named Hawke, who fought Corypheus once before and now fears Grey Wardens are under the influence of the ancient darkspawn. Hawke has a Warden contact who may be able to say more.

The quest plays out across several locations in Thedas.

Note: Two decision points occur at the end of this quest which have major repercussions.

Acquisition

The quest is received when talking with Varric as part of the From the Ashes quest, after the Inquisition has taken up residence in Skyhold (see: In Your Heart Shall Burn).

Walkthrough

Varric mentions he has a friend that may be able to aid the Inquisition against Corypheus.

The Inquisitor must meet Varric on top of Skyhold's battlements to be introduced. Varric's friend is Hawke, the former Champion of Kirkwall. Hawke informs the Inquisitor of having an ally among the Grey Wardens that has more information on the nature of Corypheus and his plans. The Warden ally is currently in hiding, in Crestwood, and the Inquisitor should travel to meet him.

Crestwood

The Inquisitor must select the war table operation Find the Warden to unlock and travel to Crestwood.

Hawke's-Potential-Grey-Warden-Friends

Hawke's Grey Warden contact: Stroud, Alistair, or Loghain

The village of Crestwood turns out to be besieged by the undead. The Inquisitor is likely to meet a pair of Grey Wardens protecting an elven girl named Jana from the undead. At the end of the fight they will mention they are hunting a renegade Grey Warden (Hawke's Warden ally), and will leave the scene. The Inquisitor may locate Jana again in a small house farther along the road. Impressed by the Wardens' prowess, Jana will be tempted to join the order, but the Inquisitor has a chance to change her mind. The decision will have an impact later in the quest. The Inquisitor may encourage her to join the Wardens or dissuade her (if Solas is in the party, he may help in this process), in which case she will become an agent for the Inquisition.

Outside of the village of Crestwood, near Three Trout Farm Camp, in a smuggler's den once held by The Blind Men, the Inquisitor will meet Hawke's Warden ally. Depending on the player's decisions in Dragon Age: Origins, the Warden ally will be either Alistair, Loghain Mac Tir, or Stroud. The Warden ally will be Alistair if he remained a Grey Warden, Loghain if he survived The Landsmeet and the Fifth Blight, or Stroud otherwise (Loghain is dead and Alistair is either dead or no longer a Grey Warden).

The Warden ally informs the Inquisitor that the situation is dire: all Wardens have been summoned to Orlais by Warden-Commander Clarel in one last desperate attempt to end all Blights forever, but he suspects some form of foul play involving Corypheus. This is because all Wardens in Orlais have simultaneously begun to hear what they believe to be the call of the Archdemon, the precursor to The Calling. In an attempt to prevent a new Blight, Warden-Commander Clarel suggested a drastic strategy of using blood magic and demons to make a final stand in the Deep Roads and end all Blights forever. The Warden ally too experienced this call but loudly protested Clarel's plan. The Warden mages immediately claimed he was interfering and decried him as a traitor, forcing him into exile.

The Wardens believed Corypheus dead by Hawke's hand, but the Warden ally looked into the matter more, knowing that, as with an Archdemon, Corypheus may not die easily. Through his own investigation, the ally has come to believe that the call felt by the Wardens is not being produced by an Archdemon, but by Corypheus, in order to command the Wardens.

Note: If present in the party at this time Blackwall will have special dialogue options.

The Warden ally says that all Wardens have gathered at a Tevinter ritual tower in the Western Approach and asks the Inquisitor's aid in investigating.

The Western Approach

The Inquisitor must select the War table mission Investigate the Western Approach (requires 8 Power) to unlock and travel to the Western Approach. Until then the Warden ally will remain on the battlements at Skyhold.

Note: If The Inquisitor returns to Skyhold garden prior to heading off to The Western Approach, Loghain or Alistair can be found conversing with Morrigan about their son Kieran; provided Wicked Eyes and Wicked Hearts was completed and Loghain or Alistair had a child with Morrigan.
Here Lies the Abyss Quest Tower ritual Image

The Binding Ritual

Once in the Western Approach, the Inquisitor may travel to the ancient Ritual Tower, and meet Hawke and the Warden ally there. They will inform the Inquisitor that the Wardens within the tower have already begun their ritual. As the party enters the Watchtower, they will find a group of Wardens lead by Livius Erimond, a Venatori magister. It is revealed that Erimond is working for Corypheus, and has manipulated the Grey Wardens--in particular the Warden mages, who are particularly vulnerable to his influence--into willingly performing the ritual. The blood magic, in fact, binds each Warden Mage that performs it (by killing a Warden warrior or, likely, rogue) to a demon. The mages themselves are effectively enslaved by Erimond and not in control of themselves, while remaining rogues and warriors appear to have retained their minds while still being vulnerable to the false Calling.

Binding demons to the Warden mages would transform the order into a demon army capable of entering the Deep Roads, fighting the darkspawn, and eventually kill the Old Gods as they sleep, thus preventing any future Blight. However, the ritual has another side effect: enslaving the demon-bound Wardens to Corypheus. Erimond will also reveal the nature of the Inquisitor's mark (the Anchor), as a means to safely cross the Veil.

Note: The Inquisitor may investigate Erimond's motives; certain questions may yield approval and potential humorous responses by Solas, Varric and Dorian, if they are present.

Erimond attempts to subdue the Inquisitor, but is thwarted by the Anchor. As Erimond flees the scene, the Inquisitor is left facing the demons and Wardens that had already performed the ritual. After the fight, Hawke and the Warden ally will regroup with the party. A brief dialogue on the reasons behind the use of blood magic by the Wardens gives their perspective on the situation. Trying to justify the Wardens as being misled will cause Solas to disapprove and Blackwall to approve, if present.

The Warden ally believes Erimond fled in the direction of the Adamant Fortress, an abandoned Grey Warden fortress. Hawke and the Warden ally agree to scout ahead and confirm the Warden presence before returning to Skyhold.

Note: Before leaving, the Inquisitor may search the tower to find one of the collectible bottles, and a claimable landmark (see Fortress Squatters).

Return to the War table in Skyhold, and select the Here Lies the Abyss mission (Orlais, requires 20 Power) to continue. Your advisers will explain the plan: the Inquisition forces will attack and lay siege to the Adamant Fortress attempting to use choke points to their advantage, holding back the demon army while the Inquisitor may reach Clarel.

Note: If Blackwall has not been recruited yet, he will not be available for recruitment any longer beyond the next step of the quest.

Adamant Fortress

Heres Lies the Abyss Quest Image 2

The Inquisition and the Grey Wardens face off

Note: The next part of the quest involves entering The Fade. Taking Solas and Cole with you will lead to additional commentary and dialogue due to their familiarity with The Fade. Additionally, taking Cassandra will lead to additional dialog about Divine Justinia V. Also note that it is impossible to change your party after entering Adamant Fortress. Furthermore, inventory can not be stored or sold; prior to starting the quest it is recommended to free up inventory space to avoid overload.

Upon entering Adamant the Inquisitor is faced with a massive battle. The Inquisition's forces assault the fortress and batter their way inside. The Inquisitor and their companions enter the fray.

Lower Bailey

To secure the gate that was breached, the Inquisitor must defeat a group of Shades with a Warden Spellbinder. When they are defeated Cullen will join the group, re-iterate the overall goals of the initiative, and point out the next problem. Too much resistance on the battlements is preventing the Inquisition forces from gaining a proper foothold. Following the path, the Inquisitor will find a group of Warden archers (and a Senior Warden). Beyond them, a gate leads west to the Main Bailey, but will be guarded by a pair of Shades that will spawn as the party approaches.

Main Bailey

In the Main Bailey, the Inquisitor stumbles upon a fight among Grey Wardens. A few Warden warriors have refused to be sacrificed for the blood magic ritual, and are fighting off a group of spellbound Wardens and Shades. After the battle, the remaining Wardens can be told to surrender or fall back to safety. If they fall back they will not initiate further conflicts with enemies. If the Inquisitor remains silent with Blackwall in the party, he will convince them to fight alongside the Inquisition. Head through the door to the south.

Note: A Supply Cache is available in this area.

Another door to the south leads to stairs heading up to the battlements. A patrol of Shades, with a Warden archer, will be found along the stairs.

Battlements and Siege Points

As the Inquisitor reaches the Battlements, the quest objective will update. Finding Clarel remains the main objective, but an optional goal of clearing 3 siege points is added (clearing the siege points is not mandatory but results in 967 experience, 200 Influence and 2 Power).

The first siege point is guarded by a Rage demon.

Note: A Supply Cache is found in a room between the first and second siege point.

The second siege point is guarded by Warden spellbinders, a Despair demon, and a Pride demon. Hawke will assist in this fight and afterward can be directed to fight with the party or stay to secure the battlements.

Note: A loot chest at this siege point contains the Grey Warden Banner.

Heading south leads to the last siege point, where the party will fight a group of Shades and a Pride Demon.

Note: A Supply Cache is found at this siege point, as well as a corpse with an Amulet of Power for Blackwall.

Once the third siege point has been cleared, the Inquisitor should backtrack almost to the second siege point, and head down a flight of stairs.

Note: The Shield of the Anointed and a random amount of gold can be found at the bottom of these stairs.

Next, the party should head west, through a set of three doors, back to the Main Bailey, where they will meet a group of Inquisition soldiers (possibly lead by Hawke) fighting a Rage Demon.

Note: A Supply Cache is found in this area.


Main Courtyard

Here Lies the Abyss Quest Image 3

The Wardens call the Nightmare through a Fade rift

In the main courtyard Erimond is revealed at last, presiding over Clarel's sacrifice to bind a demon to her. If Jana was not recruited as an agent of the Inquisition earlier in Crestwood, she will be the sacrifice; otherwise it will be an elder Grey Warden warrior or rogue. The ritual will be interrupted by the Inquisitor following the sacrifice, who will try to explain how the Wardens are being enslaved to Corypheus. If Blackwall is in the party, the Inquisitor may ask him to speak to the Wardens (Blackwall, Iron Bull and Sera approve). An additional dialogue option is available if the History Knowledge perk was acquired. (Solas and Dorian will slightly disapprove and Iron Bull will approve.) However, if you were able to convince the Wardens in the Main Bailey to fall back, a dialogue option comes up where you can convince the remaining the Wardens to doubt Erimond (This garners Cole's Approval), and the assembled non-mage Wardens will speak up at this point, noting that their mage friends are acting strangely, even hostile.

The Inquisition claims and especially the mention of Corypheus seem to move Clarel, who starts doubting Erimond. The Venatori Magister then calls forth Corypheus's dragon to attack the Inquisitor. At this point, Clarel understands Erimond's deception. She will order the Wardens in the yard to help the Inquisitor and pursue the fleeing Erimond.

The enslaved Warden Spellbinders, Shades, and a Pride Demon in the courtyard will attack the party with the aerial support of the Dragon.

After the battle, head west along the battlements. Shade and Demons will be encountered along the way, and the Dragon will continue to attack from above.

Clarel and Erimond are discovered engaged in a duel. Clarel nearly succeeds in slaying Erimond before the dragon attacks, mauling her. Near death, she enacts one last attack to destroy both herself and the dragon. The force of her spell shatters the walkway and all plummet. The Inquisitor and party are saved when the Inquisitor opens a rift and all fall through.

The Fade

The Inquisitor, their party, the Warden ally, and Hawke are trapped physically in the Fade (specifically in the Raw Fade), and must now escape by locating a rift that corresponds to the rift that had been opened in the main courtyard of the Adamant Fortress during Erimond's ritual.

Before climbing the stairs ahead, the Inquisitor's party may explore the area surrounding them. In front of them, they will find a Supply Chest. To the north, the Codex entry: A Letter by a Burning Candle, the Codex entry: Walking the Fade: Frozen Moments, a group of Shades and Wraiths, and an Eluvian that will confer +1 Magic to the Inquisitor. To the south, a group of Shades and a table that, if examined, will bestow the Fears of the Dreamers quest. One of the quests objective lies nearby: a Candle that may be placed on the same table. The chair by the table can now be interacted with to gain a Magic point. Finally, the Codex entry: A Plea from the Warrior to the Spirits is also available near the table.

Climbing the stairs, the party encounters what appears to be the spirit of Divine Justinia V. It is unclear if the vision is the Divine or a spirit, but the entity knows the truth of the events at the Temple of Sacred Ashes. It is revealed that the Inquisitor's memories of the event were stolen by the Nightmare, the general of Corypheus's demon army, a creature that feeds on terrors. The Nightmare was in fact the origin of the false Calling the Grey Wardens experienced. Slaying demons will help to restore the Inquisitor's memories. If Cassandra is in the party, additional dialog will be available when encountering the spirit of Divine Justinia V.

Four Wraiths will appear and attack, each one releasing a memory that must be collected. When all four memories are collected, the truth at the Temple is revealed: the Inquisitor interrupted Corypheus' ritual in an effort to save the Divine and touched the mysterious orb in the process. The Anchor was the result of this contact. It is also revealed that Grey Wardens were collaborating with Corypheus in the ritual as Warden mages were magically restraining the Divine for the sacrifice. Justinia says the Inquisitor must make haste, as Nightmare will be now aware of their presence in the Fade. She disappears, to "prepare the road ahead" as the group will follow.

Spirit The Breach

Divine Justinia V, the woman in The Breach

Shortly thereafter, the group will reach a clearing where Nightmare detects them. It will talk to the party with Corypheus' voice, taunting them with remarks personalized to each companion's character and background. A group of Shades and Wraiths appears at the bottom of the stairs.

Note: Below the stairs where Nightmare speaks, the Inquisitor can pick up the flowers for the Fears of the Dreamers quest. They can be placed in a vase across the clearing, granting +1 Constitution.
Note: Shortly after this area, there is an Eluvian mirror granting +1 Dexterity.

Next the party will face attack by giant spiders called Fearlings. They have names such as "Mages," "Templars," "The Blight" etc. which are related to codex entries found in the area describing the fears of various people around Thedas.

The main path continues eastward, while a secondary path leads north to a circular dead-end. Along the way, the Inquisitor can inspect the effigy of a burning man (a Rage demon will spawn and attack), and hear more of Nightmare's taunts directed to the members of the party. The dead-end presents an Eluvian mirror that will grant +1 Cunning but spawn two Rage demons and a group of Wraths when inspected. Another group of Wraths with a Rage demon will ambush the group on their way back to the main path.

Back on the main path eastward, after dealing with more spiders (and Nightmare's taunts), the party will encounter the Divine again. She can be questioned further, and instructs the Inquisitor to battle more demons to recover more memories. There is a supply chest nearby to restock potions. Wraiths can be battled for further memories, which reveal greater information.

It was in fact the Divine and not Andraste who appeared in The Breach. She died as the Inquisitor escaped, slain by demons to make certain the Inquisitor could flee. Therefore, this entity can be seen as the spirit of The Divine, or a spirit that has merely taken on her form. Hawke and the Warden ally get into a heated argument about the Wardens' culpability in the Divine's death, to which the Inquisitor can agree with either or urge them to put the argument aside for now, as more fearlings attack the group.

Defeating the fearlings opens the barrier ahead, beyond which lies a group of shades and a Terror demon await.

Note: A tarot card for the Fears of the Dreamers quest can be picked up in this area, and placed in the cauldron nearby, granting +1 Strength.
Note: An Eluvian mirror in this area grants +1 Willpower.

Beyond these enemies, the group will reach the Divine's spirit once again, as she is being attacked by a group of fearlings. The spirit will once again disappear after this fight, and the group will face a split in the path. Both sides (higher path on the north, and lower one on the south) will lead to the new location of the Divine.

The higher, northern path is guarded by two Pride Demons and a Fearling. It holds one of the objectives for the Fears of the Dreamers quest (grants +1 Willpower), and the Broken Window quest.

The lower, southern path is guarded by two Terror Demons and Wraiths. It holds one of the objectives for the Fears of the Dreamers quest (grants +1 Cunning), and an Eluvian mirror granting +1 Strength (if the objective for the Fears of the Dreamer quest is completed first, the Eluvian will be guarded by an additional group of Darkspawn).

As the group approaches the Divine spirit where the two paths reunite, they will be attacked by waves of Wraiths and Fearlings lead by Pride and Despair Demons.

Note: A Supply Cache is available in this area.

After the fight, the Divine spirit will head north, explaining the Inquisitor should exit the Fade and close the rift behind.

Note: Around this location, the reward loot for the Fears of the Dreamers can be found, if the quest is completed.
Note: A second Supply Cache is also available nearby.

Nightmare's Lair

HLtA spider

Warden Alistair, Hawke, and the Inquisitor confront the Nightmare demon

The rift ahead leads back to the real world but it is blocked by the massive spider-like form of Nightmare. The Divine spirit sacrifices herself to subdue the demon, asking the Inquisitor to give a farewell message to Leliana before doing so. With the demon temporarily indisposed the Inquisitor must face the Aspect of the Nightmare left behind, a Fear demon, and its Fearlings.

The Aspect will use barriers to protect itself. It is vulnerable to electricity and spirit, but immune to other effects (fear, asleep, frozen, physical effects).

When the demon is defeated the spider demon reappears, blocking the party's escape. A pivotal decision will have to be made. One of the Inquisitor's allies, either the Warden ally or Hawke, must remain behind in the Fade to fight the Nightmare, buying time for escape.

Note: Whoever is chosen will likely die.

If Hawke is chosen: Hawke will demand to remain behind to fight the creature as Hawke feels Corypheus is their responsibility and the Warden ally must remain to restore the Grey Warden order. When charging the creature, Hawke will say farewell to Varric and their love interest. If Hawke does not have a love interest, the Champion's final words instead correspond to their personality.

If the Warden ally is chosen: The Warden ally, after the revelations about the Warden involvement in the Divine's death, will demand to remain behind to fight the creature. Choosing the Warden ally as the sacrifice may have impact upon the next pivotal decision made.

Adamant Fortress

Upon returning to the fortress from the Fade, the Inquisitor closes the Fade rift that was opened and destroys the remaining demons—as well as Erimond's hope at creating a demon army. Erimond has been taken alive for judgment. Then the Inquisitor will reveal that one of the companions sacrificed themselves to save the rest.

The knowledge of the vulnerability of Grey Wardens to the power of Corypheus, and their culpability in the death of the Divine, makes their presence in Orlais contentious. The Inquisitor must make a decision on the fate of the Wardens in Orlais: whether to exile them from Orlais due to their potential for corruption, or to allow them to remain and fight for the Inquisition. At this time the Warden ally, if alive, is the last surviving senior Warden in Orlais. If Hawke is alive, a nearby Warden will comment that the Orlais Wardens are now leaderless and have no one of significant rank to guide them.

If the Wardens are exiled: The Grey Wardens will leave Orlais, thus leaving the Empire without any Warden presence. The sequence of war table operations beginning with Investigate Val Gamord becomes available.

Note: If the Wardens are exiled, Blackwall regardless of being in the original party will ask to stay on, the option is given to exile him as well. If Loghain or Alistair is the surviving Warden ally that is exiled and had a child with Morrigan, he will ask The Inquisitor to pass on some words to her.

If the Wardens join the Inquisition: The Grey Wardens will remain and rebuild their order, joining the forces at Skyhold. The series of war table operations beginning with Protect Val Gamord from Darkspawn becomes available.

Note: If the Warden ally is alive, he will return to Weisshaupt to relay the events that occurred; otherwise Hawke will do so.

Skyhold

The quest completes following a conversation with Leliana at Skyhold after the above decision.

Note: Additional dialog in regards to the events of the fade can be initiated with Dorian, this conversation differs if he was in the party.
Note: Additional dialog in regards to Divine Justinia V can be initiated with Cassandra, this conversation differs if she was in the party.
Note: Additional dialog in regards to Divine Justinia V can be initiated with Vivienne, if she was not in the party.
Note: Additional dialog in regards to Divine Justinia V can be initiated with Leliana.
Note: Additional dialog in regards to Loghain's exile or sacrifice can be initiated with Morrigan, pending they had a child together.

Rewards

Crestwood

  • 256 XP
  • 160 Influence

Western Approach

  • 242 XP
  • 80 Influence

Adamant

Optional: Clear the Siege Points

The Fade

Skyhold

Companion reactions

The decision whether to recruit or exile the Grey Wardens will have significant impact with the companions.

Note: Sera's disapproval will be higher if Blackwall is exiled with the Wardens. Her disapproval for exiling the Wardens can be offset completely by allowing Blackwall to stay. Many other disapproval hits can be offset by conversations in Skyhold immediately after this quest.
Note: Varric only approves or disapproves if he's in the active party. He greatly disapproves if Hawke is left behind and he's in the active party. He also greatly approves/disapproves depending on whether Blackwall gets exiled or not. So if Hawke is left behind and Blackwall is exiled, Varric will greatly disapprove twice. Varric's approval doesn't seem to be about if you exile the Wardens or not.
Companion Join Inquisition Exile
Blackwall Greatly Approves Greatly Disapproves
Cassandra Disapproves Greatly Approves
Cole Greatly Disapproves Greatly Approves
Dorian Approves Disapproves
Iron Bull Greatly Approves Disapproves
Sera Greatly Approves Disapproves
Solas Greatly Disapproves Greatly Approves
Varric (if Warden left behind) Greatly Approves Greatly Disapproves
Varric (if Hawke left behind) Greatly Disapproves Greatly Approves
Vivienne Slightly Disapproves Slightly Approves

Approval

Speaking to Hawke's Grey Warden ally for the first time in Crestwood:

Warden: My name is ______, and I am at your service, Inquisitor.
  • I could use another ally. - DAIApproval Sera Slightly Disapproves
  • Help me add all this up. - No approval change
  • I want information. - No approval change.
Warden: It was a Grey Warden matter. I was bound by an oath of secrecy.
  • What is the calling? - DAIApproval Solas Slightly Approves
  • The calling controls them? - DAIApproval Iron Bull Slightly Approves
  • This is irrelevant. - DAIApproval Sera Slightly Approves
Hawke: And then they do something desperate... which is, of course, what Corypheus wants.
  • The Wardens are desperate. - DAIApproval Iron Bull Slightly Approves
  • The Wardens are scared. - DAIApproval Cassandra Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Cole Slightly Approves
  • The Wardens are foolish. - DAIApproval Sera Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Solas Slightly Approves
  • [Investigate.]
  • Can Corypheus really do that? - DAIApproval Iron Bull Slightly Approves
(all other questions have no approval change.)

The conversation with Livius Erimond in the Western Approch Ritual Tower.

Erimond: And you found the Inquisitor and came to stop me. Shall we see how that goes?
  • Your allies don't scare me. - DAIApproval Blackwall Disapproves
(other choices have no approval change.)
Erimond: Raise a demon army, march into the deep roads, and kill the Old Gods before they wake.
  • Oh, that demon army. - DAIApproval Solas Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Varric Slightly Approves
(other choices have no approval change.)
Erimond: This was a test. Once the rest of the Wardens complete the ritual, the army will conquer Thedas.
  • Let the Wardens go. - DAIApproval Cassandra Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Cole Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Sera Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Varric Slightly Approves
  • I've seen worse. - DAIApproval Dorian Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Vivienne Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Sera Slightly Disapproves
  • You're dead. - DAIApproval Sera Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Vivienne Slightly Approves
[Investigate.]
  • Corypheus made them do this? - No approval change.
  • Why kill the Old Gods? - DAIApproval Solas Slightly Approves
  • Why risk using demons? - DAIApproval Iron Bull Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Vivienne Slightly Approves
  • What's in it for you? - DAIApproval Varric Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Vivienne Slightly Approves
A battle will start immediately after this conversation. When the demons and Wardens are killed, this next conversation will begin:
Hawke: Of course. Sacrificed in the ritual. What a waste./Oh, of course. It's not real blood magic until someone gets sacrificed./Sacrificed? I knew the Wardens would go too far.
  • They were misled. - DAIApproval Blackwall Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Dorian Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Solas Slightly Disapproves
  • How could they do this? - DAIApproval Dorian Approves, DAIApproval Cassandra Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Cole Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Iron Bull Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Sera Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Vivienne Slightly Approves,DAIApproval Varric Slightly Approves
  • They've gone too far. - DAIApproval Cole Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Iron Bull Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Sera Slightly Approves

Adamant

During the conversation with Cullen:

  • Don't take risks. - DAIApproval Sera Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Blackwall Slightly Approves

During the ritual:

  • Blackwall? - DAIApproval Blackwall Approves, DAIApproval Sera Approves, DAIApproval Iron Bull Approves
  • History Knowledge perk - DAIApproval Sera Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Iron Bull Approves, DAIApproval Dorian Slightly Disapproves, DAIApproval Solas Slightly Disapproves (regardless if he is in the party or not)
  • (Special) I've spared some of you! (only if the Fall back to safety option was chosen with the group of Wardens in the Main Bailey) - DAIApproval Cole Greatly Approves, DAIApproval Cassandra Slightly Approves

In the Fade

Speaking to Justinia about the Nightmare during the first conversation:

Justinia: I greet you, Warden. And you, Champion. (Cassandra. - only if in party)
  • Cassandra, is it her? - No approval change.
  • I thought you were dead. - DAIApproval Solas Slightly Approves, DAIApproval Cole Slightly Approves
(other choices have no approval change.)
Justinia: You do not remember what happened at the Temple of Sacred Ashes, Inquisitor.
  • How do you know my title? - DAIApproval Solas Slightly Approves
(other choices have no approval change.)
  • Why do demons serve Corypheus? - DAIApproval Solas Slightly Approves,DAIApproval Cole Slightly Approves
  • How do we get home? - DAIApproval Sera Slightly ApprovesDAIApproval Cole Slightly Approves
  • Oh, crap - DAIApproval Sera Slightly Disapproves, DAIApproval Iron Bull Slightly Approves
  • Can it be killed? - DAIApproval Solas Disapproves, DAIApproval Cassandra Slightly Disapproves, DAIApproval Sera Slightly Approves
[Investigate.]
  • Please tell me what you are? - DAIApproval Sera Approves
  • I don't believe in the Maker. - DAIApproval Cassandra Slightly Disapproves
  • I'm right where I should be. - DAIApproval Cassandra Approves

When Hawke and the Warden are arguing:

  • Hawke is right - DAIApproval Blackwall Disapproves
  • Stroud/Alistair/Loghain is right - DAIApproval Blackwall Slightly Approves
  • Maker, stop, both of you - DAIApproval Sera Approves (available only to a Faithful Inquisitor)
  • Now is not the time - DAIApproval Sera Approves

Divine Election

If the Grey Wardens are allowed to join the Inquisition:

("Help the Inquisition.")

Leliana +5, Cassandra -5, Vivienne -1

If the Grey Wardens are banished from Orlais:

("Get out of Orlais.")

Leliana -5, Cassandra +5, Vivienne +1

Bug: Leliana is frequently granted +5 instead of the intended -5 for banishing the Wardens from Orlais.

Codex entries

Found in The Raw Fade

Codex entry: Fears of the Dreamers Codex entry: Fears of the Dreamers

Codex entry: The Keepers of Fear Codex entry: The Keepers of Fear

Codex entry: The Laws of Nature in the Fade Codex entry: The Laws of Nature in the Fade

Codex entry: A Letter by a Burning Candle Codex entry: A Letter by a Burning Candle

Codex entry: Nightmare Codex entry: Nightmare

Codex entry: A Plea from the Warrior to the Spirits Codex entry: A Plea from the Warrior to the Spirits

Codex entry: Walking the Fade: Frozen Moments Codex entry: Walking the Fade: Frozen Moments

Codex entry: Walking the Fade: A Harrowing Codex entry: Walking the Fade: A Harrowing

Other texts

Found at the Ritual Tower in the Western Approach

A Letter Found on a Grey Warden Mage A Letter Found on a Grey Warden Mage

Found in The Raw Fade

The Birth of Fear The Birth of Fear

The Claws of Dumat The Claws of Dumat

Excerpt from a Journal Excerpt from a Journal

A Letter Written in A Shaking Hand A Letter Written in A Shaking Hand

Memories Etched in Stone and Blood Memories Etched in Stone and Blood

A Note Left by a Burning Candle A Note Left by a Burning Candle

The Temple of Dumat The Temple of Dumat

Whispers Written in Red Lyrium Whispers Written in Red Lyrium

Bugs

  • ps3ps3 Upon reaching the Tevinter ritual tower, conversations may freeze and only unlock after a certain time has passed, or the player has somehow triggered the conversation to continue. Portions of conversation may be lost when this occurs.
  • ps3ps3 The Warden ally may vanish in Adamant Fortress after the Warden warriors are encountered in the main bailey, but will reappear before Clarel is encountered.
  • pcpc The second choke point may not spawn enemies even though it will be marked on the map by a quest marker.
  • xbox360xbox360pcPC When Clarel slits the sacrifice's throat, if you quickly press the Skip button you will see the Inquisitor with their throat slit and pouring blood.
  • In the Fade, after reading the mage's journal and defeating the rage demon it summons, the interact point and journal remain interactive and can be re-read, though without summoning a demon.
  • After completing the Broken Window puzzle, the text says to recover the magister's amulet, but the actual loot is a Superb Ring of Sundering as well as a random item and gold amount.
  • ps3ps3xbox360xbox360 During the fight with the Aspect of the Nightmare the Warden ally and Hawke may, after the first assault from the Nightmare, remain stunned and only able to fight once briefly in the middle of the battle before lapsing back into a stunned state.
  • During the final cutscene after defeating the Nightmare and escaping the Fade, Blackwall can be seen in the background with the assembled Wardens and Inquisition soldiers, even if he was not taken on the mission.
  • xboxonexboxoneDuring the initial cut-scene in the Western Approach, the player may not be able to select options from the dialogue wheel. This can be remedied by toggling the radial menu using LB, which will 'activate' the dialogue wheel cursor.
  • xbox360xbox360ps3ps3Sometimes a custom Hawke will still say the default line about spiders even if they romanced someone in DAII.
  • PC When a female Inquisitor tells Alistair after escaping the fade that "They can tell whatever stories they like.." Alistair's answer refers to the Inquisitor as a male.
  • PC If you target the dragon during the scene just before you see Clarel's and Erimond duel, and cast Mark of Rift just as he does a pass by, the dragon will appear to be sucked into the fade, although the sound of the wings can still be heard. The attacks from the dragon will stop.

Notes

  • If Alistair was romanced in Dragon Age: Origins he will speak happily of his life with The Hero of Ferelden. He will also mention that she would have been present during the quest had she not been pursuing her own quest, that of saving herself and Alistair—and possibly all Wardens—from the Calling.
  • Speaking with either Alistair, Leliana or Morrigan, depending on who was romanced in Dragon Age: Origins and whether Alistair is present or not, after the quest will unlock war table operation Contact Hero of Ferelden and provide additional information about the Warden.
  • It is useful to, soon after this quest completes, to create a new character of any type and re-watch the introductory videos as they give a somewhat different version of the events in the Fade. In the Here Lies The Abyss version, the Inquisitor is chased up the stairs by the spiders, looks back to the physical version of Justinia, reaches out to her, Justinia falls back and the Inquisitor goes forward into the veil tear. In the opening sequence, when the Inquisitor runs up the stairs, the white ghost version of Justinia is ahead and above the Inquisitor, Justinia reaches out to the Inquisitor, the anchor flashes and the screen does a white-out. The positions of the two characters are reversed between the two depictions of what is supposedly the same event and each has a different ending.
    • Also, in the quest version, the Inquisitor wears whatever armor they are wearing in the Fade when they escape the spiders, whereas in the introductory videos, they wear the starting armor.
  • Although you can target the Red Lyrium dragon, it will always have 1 hp remaining.
  • Gregory Dedrick can be conscripted to join Grey Warden ranks if you haven't judged him yet.
  • In the Fade, Justinia says that the anchor can only be removed by killing the Inquisitor, however, this is contradicted by the ending of Trespasser.

Trivia

  • Most of the quest names in the main plot refer to specific verses of the Chant of Light. "Here lies the abyss" can be seen in the Canticle of Andraste 14:11.
  • If Blackwall is taken to meet the Warden Ally in Crestwood, Blackwall will claim to have known Duncan, the Ferelden Warden-Commander in Dragon Age: Origins.
  • Patrick Weekes was the main writer for this quest.[1]
  • If the Inquisitor uses tactical view, the "Fearlings" that are encountered each have different names, such as "War", "Poverty", "Pestilence", etc. Amusingly, encountered in the "Find a way to keep monsters away" area of the Fears of the Dreamers side quest, one of the Fearlings bears the name "Ironically, Spiders".
  • In Dragon Age 2, Flemeth says to Hawke: "The world fears the inevitable plummet into the abyss. Watch for that moment... and when it comes, do not hesitate to leap. It is only when you fall that you learn whether you can fly." During the quest the Inquisitor and Hawke are falling into the Abyssal Rift when the Inquisitor opens a Fade rift for them to leap into only to find themselves in the realm of Nightmare inhabited by fearlings.
  • In the Fade, gravestones can be found engraved with each of your companions' names and fears. They read as follows: Iron Bull: Madness; Vivienne: Irrelevance; Varric: Becoming His Parents; Cassandra: Helplessness; Blackwall: Himself; Dorian: Temptation; Sera: The Nothing; Cole: Despair; Solas: Dying Alone.

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Inquisition.


  • In an earlier version of this quest, the writers intended for the player to meet The Architect.[2]


References