Dragon Age 2 Offered And Lost Quest Choices And Consequences

In Dragon Age 2, the main quest Offered and Lost serves as a pivotal narrative turning point that highlights the growing political and religious tensions in Kirkwall. As Hawke investigates the sudden disappearance of a Qunari delegation, players are forced to navigate complex factional motives while dealing with religious fanaticism. Understanding the choices embedded within this quest ensures players achieve their desired outcomes and optimize party dynamics.
Investigating the Disappearance and Facing Ser Varnell
The quest begins when Hawke is requested to assist Viscount Dumar in locating a missing group of Qunari delegates. The investigation quickly leads to Ser Varnell, a fanatic Chantry zealot who has captured the delegates in an attempt to provoke a war. Players must confront Varnell and his followers in a challenging combat encounter that features multiple waves of archers and fanatic melee units.
Deciding the Fate of the Bodies
After defeating Varnell and his zealots, Viscount Dumar arrives at the scene to assess the fallout. Hawke must advise the Viscount on how to handle the slain Qunari bodies to prevent open conflict in the city. Choosing to burn the bodies destroys the evidence, which later unlocks the Fixer questline in Act 3. Conversely, refusing to incinerate the bodies and returning them openly pleases the Arishok, improving Hawke's standing with the Qunari leader.
Managing Party Approval and Companion Reactions
The decisions made during this quest noticeably impact companion approval ratings across the board. Characters with strong lawful or Chantry ties react differently to Varnell's actions and the subsequent cover-up. Selecting dialogue options that align with your preferred companion relationships helps build necessary friendship or rivalry points for late-game loyalty.
Long-Term Political Impact in Kirkwall
The outcome of Offered and Lost heavily influences the political climate leading into the climax of Act 2. The Arishok's patience with Kirkwall's nobility deteriorates based on how Hawke handles the situation and communicates with the Qunari compound. Navigating this quest with foresight allows players to better prepare for the unavoidable conflict that reshapes Kirkwall's future.