#da datamine

[merrinla]

Lighthouse Malfunction Cut Content

Before Blood of Arlathan, there was supposed to be another quest in the game - Darkness Falls. The astrolabe was breaking down, there was no way from the camp, because the eluvians weren't working either, and it was getting dark. The Lighthouse defense was slowly fading. Emmrich and Bellara came up with a plan to fix it. Rook had to go to one of the islands near the Lighthouse to get an elven artifact that could repair the astrolabe. But to get there, the help of the spirit was needed. Thus, the player had to choose who to take with them - Manfred or Spite.

In the game, the astrolabe is already broken. It can still be fixed, but this is a side quest, it doesn't play a role in the plot. This will only give you a discount at the Caretaker's workshop and an alternative look of the library.

However you can still find mentions of the Lighthouse Malfunction in the files.

Some of this content can be activated in the game using modding tools. For example, sky textures that look like twilight.

There's also malfunction lighting. I'm not sure I triggered it correctly because it looks like horror for epileptic people. But maybe it's just unfinished.

The localization file contains many lines of deleted dialogues from this quest. Hard to say whether they were voiced.

It all started with Davrin meeting Rook outside.

Rook: Davrin? You know what's happening? Davrin: Something's strange with the Lighthouse. Emmrich said to find him.

Emmrich's room, where he and Bellara discuss what to do next.

Rook: The eluvians don't work, and neither of you know why? Emmrich: The astrolabe in the main hall is out of alignment. Until we correct it, the Lighthouse's protective wards will slowly fade. Rook: And if we don't correct it? Bellara: Without the wards, we'll be open to all sorts of bad stuff. Raw magic, demons, the work. Bellara: Well not yet! Emmrich: You know, it's more than just the wards. Half the artifacts in my room have shut down, and I don't know why. Bellara: Right Professor.

Option: What caused this? Rook: Why'd the astrolabe break? Emmrich: We're not sure. The Lighthouse is so old, it could just be time. Bellara: It certainly wasn't caused by a greater spirit, or a sudden swell of magic. And yet... Emmrich: Well. Let's turn our thoughts to repairs.

Option: We've seen worse. Haven't we? Rook: This can't be as bad as some of Arlathan. Can it? Bellara: In Arlathan, we could leave. Sometimes. But we've got a plan.

Option: Well, still standing for now. Rook: I'm sure our senior necromancer would warn us if we were about to be crushed. Emmrich: Well, it would be more akin to being etherically attenuated than crushed. Bellara: It won't come to that! We've got a plan.

Option: We'll solve it together. Rook: We've got you and Emmrich, the rest of the team. We'll figure it out. Bellara: Oh! We already have a plan.

Option: What's the plan? Rook: How do we fix it? Bellara: We figured that out! Mostly.

Emmrich: Bellara's tracked down an artifact we can use to repair the astrolabe. Rook: Tell me where. Bellara: Professor Emmrich found this magic... thread from it that leads to one of the floating islands. Rook: How do you two even know this artifact exists? Bellara: A receptacle in the main hall came to life when the astrolabe malfunctioned. Bellara: I've seen them in Arlathan. Inserting the right artifact will make repairs. Emmrich: Yes. All of which we determined before you clambered up the astrolabe. Bellara: I had to double check! Rook: Okay. We need to get to the island with the artifact to fix all this. Emmrich: It's on one of the floating islands. You'll need help reaching it. Spirit help.

Next, Lucanis, Manfred and Spite take part in the conversation.

Side note. This is just my guess, but I think some of Lucanis' lines in this quest differed depending on whether the player had completed the Inner Demons or not.

Lucanis: You want Spite to help? Emmrich: We require both of you, Lucanis. Lucanis: Never! Lucanis: Emmrich. Unlike Manfred, Spite does not love doing what he's told. Emmrich: Perhaps, but Spite grows so much more aware when he works with you, Lucanis. Lucanis: Or you could send Manfred. Emmrich: Unsupervised? Bellara: Hmm. Manfred could probably find a path to the island for Rook. Manfred: (Excited hiss.)

Option: Why doesn't Emmrich do this? Rook: Can't you find this spirit path, Emmrich? Emmrich: Certainly, but— Rook: But you and Bellara have to stay here and stop the roof from collapsing? Emmrich: We have a few days before anything really bad happens. But it's safer.

Option: I'll take Manfred. Rook: You ready to go Manfred? Manfred: (Excited hiss.) Emmrich: Oh, if he must. Don't let him out of your sight!

Option: I'll take Spite. Rook: You up for this Spite? Lucanis: No. Lucanis (Spite): (Inhales.) Smells like... fear. Sweat. And frustration. Lucanis: (Deep groaning.) Lucanis: (Sighs.) I'll—we'll be outside.

Rook: What's this artifact I'm after look like? Emmrich: Same shape as the astrolabe, but much smaller. The path to it should start near Harding's room. Emmrich: Bring it to the main hall once you've found it. We'll ensure the Lighthouse is warded again.

Journal note The Lighthouse is normally shielded from the raw magic of the Fade, but something has gone wrong. The team must repair the ancient devices keeping their headquarters safe and hidden, before the wards fail and chaos envelops them.

Companions in the library: - Why's it so cold all of a sudden? - I'm cold now too. Why can't I see my breath? - See the astrolabe up there? It normally keeps the Lighthouse steady, but something's amiss. - Magic, probably. Not my specialty this time.

- Bellara and Emmrich will fix it. - Speaking of which, where was Manfred going in such a hurry?

- Bellara and that death mage said they'd fix things. - Hey, was Lucanis arguing with Spite when he passed by us?

Rook: Manfred must already be outside. Rook: Lucanis must already be outside with Spite.

In the courtyard.

Rook: Can you help turn on this portal to the island, Manfred? Manfred: (Happy hiss.) Rook: Thanks!

Rook: Spite? Can you activate this portal to the island? Lucanis (Spite): Finally! Lucanis (Spite): Rook. Needs me. Everyone. Needs me. Lucanis: Ignore him.

The full picture is unknown, only some details. Rook moved between the islands around the Lighthouse, for this Manfred or Spite held the portal for them. Unlike Spite, Manfred needed to be directed to the waypoint.

Lucanis has some raw animations in the files when he's in Spite mode holding the portal for Rook.

Rook: Think you can help find a path to it? Manfred: (Curious hiss.)

Lucanis (Spite): It's here. The path. I will take it. Lucanis (Spite): Move!

(Thunderous rumble.)

Manfred: (Frightened hiss.) Rook (Mourn Watch): We both grew up in the Necropolis, Manfred. We can handle whatever that was. Rook: I don't know what that was either, Manfred. Let's keep going. Manfred: (Happy hiss.)

Rook: Spite? Lucanis (Spite): (Angry snarl.) Close. Lucanis: Let's keep moving. Lucanis (Spite): Faster!

The path to the artifact is blocked by a barrier that can be lowed by wisps.

Rook: A barrier?

Manfred: (Concerned hiss.) Rook: Maybe it's part of the Lighthouse's defenses.

Lucanis: I see it. That barrier could be the Lighthouse defending itself.

Rook: We'll need a wisp here.

Rook (Mourn Watch): Manfred? Would you do the honors? Manfred: (Excited hiss.) Rook (Mourn Watch): Thanks Manfred. And hail the eyes of the dead. Manfred: (Very excited hiss.)

Rook: Where do we get a wisp? Rook: Unless you can call one up Manfred—wait. Can you? Manfred: (Excited hiss.) Rook: It worked! Thanks Manfred. Manfred: (Pleased hiss.)

Rook: They won't answer. Lucanis: They will. Lucanis: Call. Lucanis (Spite): COME. OUT. OR I. WILL FIND YOU! Rook: That worked? Lucanis (Spite): Curiosity. Is predictable.

Rook finds an artifact.

Inscription on a Plaque A talisman to repair the protection of our sanctuary. Caution: Misuse may sever you from the flow of all things. Crafted by she who was once a servant, but now works happily to set our people free.

Rook: That has to be the artifact Emmrich needs. Manfred: (Excited hiss.) Lucanis (Spite): Trash. Stinks of magic. Mine. Is better.

On the way back.

Rook: Wait here, Manfred. And don't wander off, Emmrich would kill me. Manfred: (Happy hiss.)

Lucanis: We'll wait here and make sure the path doesn't strand you.

Suddenly the gods cut off the path that leads Rook to the spirit companion.

Elgar'nan: At last. The Dread Wolf's little soldiers. Rook: Elgar'nan? Ghilan'nain: We have scryed you out by the blood of my dragon on your hands. Ghilan'nain: Solas erected veils of secrecy around his old lair. We've had such difficulty finding it.

Rook: That was the gods!

Rook: Manfred? I'm trapped up here! Can you help? Manfred: (Concerned hiss.)

Rook: They trapped me here! Lucanis: We'll find you a way down!

Manfred: (Loud hiss.) Rook: A path. Good work Manfred! Meet me below. Manfred: (Tired hiss.)

Lucanis (Spite): Do. What. I. Say! Lucanis (Spite): Now! Rook: I see the path! I'll meet you two down below! Lucanis (Spite): (Panting.) Go. Now.

Lucanis: Is that the gods? Are they closer?

Rook: It's just voices. They aren't here yet! Elgar'nan: Oh, but we shall be soon.

Rook: We have to hide the Lighthouse. I need to get this artifact to Emmrich!

Rook (Mourn Watch): I'll get us around this. Stay here Manfred. Watcher's orders. Manfred: (Obedient hiss.)

Rook: Sit tight, Manfred. I'll get us around this. Manfred: (Consoled hiss.)

Rook: Done! Come on Manfred. Manfred: (Happy hiss.)

Lucanis (Spite): (Inhales.) Wrong. Wrong. Wrong! Lucanis (Spite): Stench. Of pride! Old. And stale! Lucanis: Calm down. Rook: I'll get us past this. Spite, just concentrate on making this path exist.

Elgar'nan: You thought we wouldn't notice you harrying our forces. Elgar'nan: But I assure you: I see all. Rook: Get... get out of my head! Elgar'nan: It would be wisdom to simply submit. To obey. Ghilan'nain: We will make far better use of this place, and yourselves, than Solas ever could. Elgar'nan: And learning what the Dread Wolf has told you all. Rook: We don't answer to you! Ghilan'nain: They resist. We are not close enough to Solas's lair. Elgar'nan: Distance will be of little consequence, after we visit Arlathan.

Rook returns to the Lighthouse. Manfred and Lucanis falling over with tiredness.

Manfred: (Unhappy hiss.) Rook: Manfred? Rook: You all right? Maybe Emmrich should look you over. Manfred: (Sad hiss.) Rook (Mourn Watch): The local astral instability must have overtaxed you when you channeled the path. Rook: You're not used to channeling this much magic for spell-casting. Rook: I've got to get to the main hall. Emmrich will help you after.

Lucanis: Do you have the—ugh! Rook: Lucanis? Rook: You two okay? Lucanis: Spite wore us both out to make that path. Rook: Did doing all this magic... hurt you? Lucanis: It doesn't matter. Get to the main hall.

Ghilan'nain: The Fade is clouded. Obscured. Ghilan'nain: We must find these mortals. Elgar'nan: I am keen to explore Fen'Harel's vaunted refuge. Ghilan'nain: We can reshape it. Repurpose it. And the mortals within.

Companions in the library: - Does anyone else... hrm. Thought I heard a voice. - Is that the gods? - Are the gods here? Right now? - They're saying stuff... in my head? - If Emmrich doesn't fix that astrolabe—damn it. I can hear them! - Don't listen. Block them out! - The gods are trying to bring the Lighthouse down on our heads! - They won't get the chance. This is our home now!

Ghilan'nain: My finest work. An Archdemon like no other. Planned for, nurtured, improved. Ghilan'nain: Slain by mortals. Elgar'nan: When we free the blight, you will raise a thousand Archdemons as your host.

Ghilan'nain: Dark. Shifting. The Dread Wolf's lair hides his underlings. Ghilan'nain: Everywhere sounds different now. Ghilan'nain: The blight calls as well. It will take great effort to unleash it all from the Fade.

Rook: Here's the artifact! Emmrich: Just in time! Place it into the receptacle.

In the game, Rook fixes the astrolabe by activating the device. But during malfunction this was only 50% of success. Restoring the Lighthouse's defenses also required manipulation by Emmrich and Bellara.

Companions in the library: - Were the gods almost here? - They're gone right? - They're gone! - I can't believe the gods were so close to finding us. - Hey. Glad you made it safely. - I don't feel them anymore. But Rook's got to tell us what happened.

Rook: I'll fill everyone in.

Lucanis: I'll make coffee.

Team sofa conversation or in the kitchen dunno.

Davrin: Glad to see the Lighthouse is once again our home sweet home. Emmrich: The artifact that fixed the astrolabe is a miniaturized suppressing element. It negates Fade energy! Emmrich: Including the gods' magic. We are hidden from their scrying. Rook: Thanks to you and Bellara.

Bellara: Professor, about that artifact... Emmrich: It's safe to remove, if you'd like to study it. Bellara: By seal and light. By the indwelling flame. (Magic crackling.) Bellara: The spellwork was straightforward, but I sense quite a few interlocking mechanisms inside. Bellara: I've never seen anything like it.

Rook: Harding. Harding: But it's all over, Rook. Right?

Option: It mostly worked out. Rook: If Manfred hadn't been here, and Bellara didn't know about that artifact, and Emmrich hadn't fixed it... Rook: If we didn't have Spite, if Bellara hadn't found that artifact, if Emmrich hadn't repaired the astrolabe... Harding: I know right? How are we even going to sleep tonight? Rook: Count your victories.

Option: They came so close. Rook: This was too close. Can't believe the damn gods were nearly on top of us. Rook: But even with no warning, we slipped away. Harding: Bet they're angry they failed. Rook: They'll be mad. Good.

Option: But we still beat them. Rook: We're still here. And only a little scared. Come on, that's something! Harding: All right, the gods aren't infallible. Rook: Damn right they're not.

Rook: And Manfred. Is he all right? Emmrich: Exhausted. But he'll recover. Emmrich: I'm afraid I won't be of much help, however, until I reknit his corporeal tethering. Neve: That sounds calmer. Good work, Fred. Manfred: (Tired hiss.)

Rook: And Spite and Lucanis. How are you two doing? Lucanis: Fine. We're fine. Neve: That's a lot better. Thanks Lucanis. And Spite. Lucanis (Spite): Mine! I am. The stronger one! I... (Tired growl.)

Lucanis: Spite... may have overdone it. I can barely keep my eyes open. I think he needs a nap. Lucanis (Spite): No! Sleep! Is weak—(Yawns.)

Harding: What's our next move? Rook: Elgar'nan confirmed the gods want something in Arlathan. The Veil Jumpers might know more. Harding: We actually got a message from them, before all this. Morrigan wants to meet. Didn't say why. Rook: Okay. We'll ask the Veil Jumpers about the gods, and pay Morrigan a visit.

Journal note: When the Lighthouse lost its magical protection, little did the team realize the cause of this breakdown was the elven gods attempting to track down Solas' old lair. With help from the others, Emmrich restored the wards and hid the Lighthouse again from the gods with an old, elven artifact. Bellara took the artifact for study, noting it had strange, magic-nullifying properties that could be very useful indeed.

There's an alternative post-malfunction convo. The speakers aren't fully identified.

Bellara: The suppression element is... doing what it does. Really well! Emmrich: Direct nullification of the Fade energy that powers it. Ingenious. Rook: The Lighthouse is stable? We're sure the gods are out? Emmrich: Thanks to your taming the device, yes. The gods are blind to us. Bellara: So we're safe here. Rook: Good, good. Just one question, then.

Option: Everyone ready to hit back? Rook: They probably think we're reeling, like they got us afraid of them. I say we get moving.

Option: What unbelievable assholes. Rook: Anyone else as pissed as I am? They go where they want like they own it, like they're.... Bellara: Like they're gods? Rook: No, they're assholes just... fucking up our house! I want a plan that hits back.

Option: Can we use it to attack them? Rook: Can you get it small enough to shove up a god's ass? Asking for a friend. Emmrich: We can study the suppression device. But the gods are moving now.

The rest of the party talk: - See? They try to scare us, and instead, consensus. I want a plan. - And me. - Lick our wounds later. Get to business. - Right. We need a plan. What do we know? - The voices we heard. I don't think they knew we could hear them. - Elgar'nan may intend a mass sacrifice. - To do what? - Then Elgar'nan's got plans for a ritual. He said he wanted "magical fodder." - "From the dust of our empire." That's got to mean elves. - Like the Wardens said. Guessing he's not planning anything good with them. - This is tricky. Elves need to know the threat. - Even if they know, they might try to get involved anyway. - We've got a useful tool here, and we'll study it. But we can't let them take people now. - Are they taking people, or are people joining them? The Venatori did. - We've seen what they really are. Our "gods." More than once. - So we know where they'll be, and we've got some idea about their plan. - This may be our chance to take down Ghilan'nain. We'll talk to the Veil Jumpers and figure out what's going on in Arlathan. - And if the gods are already there? Gathering "fodder." - We warn them, but with care. - Well, looks like we're going to Arlathan. - Whatever happens, let's be careful. We can't afford to miss anything. - We need to move fast. - Doesn't matter. We stop it. - Time to visit Arlathan.

And it seems that the Music Room and The Wolf's Den could only be explored after the malfunction quest.

The release version didn't include these Rooks' lines from there: - I'm glad we got that fixed. - A piano? I wonder who played. - Wow. - A hideaway inside a hideaway. - Solas must've spent a lot of time here.

[vitaeplaysda]

Elgar'nan voice

So I started making a spreadsheet with *all* Elgar'nan dialogues or related texts in game to help the Elgar'nation study the way he speaks. Making sure it's easy to understand if you can find them in game or they have been datamined. If they're part of the script (cut or not) or if they're from the RAW. And dear goodness, almost A THIRD if not half of Elgar'nan dialogues have been cut out from the game. (Which made me learn how to datamine myself and guys... there is such GOOD stuff. Kudos to Joseph for the great work, I'm so sad we haven't been able to hear all the lines in game 😭)

[merrinla]

More finds in the cut content. What's interesting is that this is post-game content. I don't know if these are pieces of DLC or an extended epilogue. Rook and Lucanis drink wine in a gondola. In one version, Lucanis refused to be First Talon and left the crows. The Viper arrives to Treviso to hire Lucanis to kill the local Venatori. The lines in the localization file are out of order. I've organized them as best I could, but I'm not sure if everything is correct.

The gondola scene

Rook: What are we celebrating? Revenge? Saving the world? Lucanis: How about a quiet moment? Rook: Is it quiet? Really? Lucanis: If it's not quiet, it's at least clear.

Option: If only the Antaam were gone. Rook: Treviso's beautiful. Too bad it's filled with Antaam.

Option: You're surprisingly romantic. Rook: Who knew you were a romantic? Lucanis: You bring it out in me. Rook: Yeah, yeah. I'm a bad influence.

Option: Let's not go back. Rook: Let's stay here forever. Lucanis: A little. Not forever.

Rook: What? No fancy glasses? Lucanis: That's Caterina's style. I'm more pragmatic. Lucanis: Well, more pragmatic than her anyway.

Option: Learn from your elders. Rook: There's nothing wrong with a bit of class. Lucanis: (Chuckles) I'll remember for next time. Rook: Oh yes. This is so pragmatic. Lucanis: I know.

Option: Casual's better. Rook: Less clean up. Rook: That's why we're having drinks in a gondola instead of the kitchen. Lucanis: Knew you'd understand.

Lucanis: Is it wrong? Enjoying ourselves while the Antaam terrorize our home... (Crow Origin) Lucanis: Is it wrong? Enjoying ourselves while the Antaam terrorize Antiva... Rook: Does it feel wrong?

(apparently Rook moved, causing the boat to rock.) Lucanis: Careful. Gondolas are more fashionable than they are stable. Rook: They're plenty sturdy. Rook: See. Nothing to— Rook: Oops? Lucanis: You were saying? Rook: Sorry. Lucanis: (Chuckles) Classic Rook. Rook: Classic Rook, he'll/she'll/tehey'll never change. Rook: I've made things awkward. Lucanis: I like this side of you. Lucanis: More wine? Rook: I saved the wine? Lucanis: (Laughs)

(Talon's version) Rook: How are you settling in as First Talon? Lucanis: There was some initial... friction with Caterina, but she got over it. Lucanis: She thought I'd do things her way and was surprised when I had my own ideas. Rook: Really? You'd think she'd be the most welcoming. Lucanis: No.

Rook: Have you spoken to Caterina or the others? Lucanis: Letters here and there. We haven't met since the party. Lucanis: I don't want to cut ties. Lucanis: But Caterina needs to get used to the fact that I'm no longer her heir. Rook: Are you used to it? Lucanis: I was never comfortable with the role to begin with. Rook: So, no regrets? Lucanis: (Sigh) Rook: It's a yes or no question, Lucanis. Lucanis: It's not. You've enough experience with regret to know that.

Rook: I respect your decision to walk away. Lucanis: It wasn't an easy decision. Lucanis: It was hard. Walking away. Rook: It was hard watching it.

Lucanis: Let's not talk about me. Rook: It's not an interrogation if you care. Lucanis: Why not? I've been thoroughly interrogated. Rook: (Snorts) Is that how it works?

Option: Your priorities have changed. Rook: You've changed your tune. Lucanis: I am. On what's important.

Lucanis: Rook. I owe you. For my life, my freedom.

Option: Consider it paid in full. Rook: That debt was paid when you helped us defeat the elven gods. Lucanis: No. That was a job. What you've done for me...

Option: I needed a mage killer. Rook: I had selfish reasons. Lucanis: Rook. I'm serious. Lucanis: Whatever your reasons...

Lucanis: The Venatori killed the man I was. Lucanis: You put the fight—the life—back into me. Rook: I... Thanks.

Lucanis: If you need someone taken care of... Just say the word. Lucanis: Your enemies are House Dellamorte's enemies. (Talon's line) Lucanis: Your enemies are my enemies.

Option: You make murder sound sweet. Rook: Awww. That's sweet. And scary. Lucanis: Of course those are the same thing to you. Rook: I was only teasing. Lucanis: How am I supposed to argue when you say things like that?

Option: I'll settle for friendship. Rook: Or we could just be friends? No killing required. Rook: I still care about you—as a friend. Lucanis: Didn't want you to get the wrong idea... Lucanis: We're still friends. Lucanis: If that's what you want... Rook: Appreciate it.

(non romance/friendship version?) Rook: Oh, I'm aware. Just haven't figured out what I want in return. Lucanis: (Chuckles) Lucanis: For a price. Rook: Not sure I can afford you… Lucanis: (Chuckles) I'll give you a fair rate. Rook: What happened to pro-bono? Lucanis: Like I said—a fair rate. (Talon's line) Rook: And you'll charge me... Lucanis: I'm not a Crow anymore. Rates are negotiable. Rook: Still sounds pretty Crow-y to me.

Rook: It's passed sundown. Lucanis: (Sighs) Rook: Time to go? Lucanis: I've business before we return. Rook: What kind of business? Lucanis: Competitive analysis.

Lucanis: Don't worry. I'll collect. Rook: Fun time over? Lucanis: I've business before we return. Rook: What kind of business? Lucanis: Competitive analysis.

Possibly lines from a subsequent quest.

Rook: Business at a Chantry. Not very Andrastian of you. Lucanis: What in our experience together makes you think I'm a good Andrastian? Rook: (Chuckles) Fair enough.

Rook: You sound like you have a plan. Lucanis: Always another mark. Rook: I take it the Antaam are the subject of this so-called analysis? Rook: Why do I get the feeling there's going to be less "analysis" and more stabby-stab? Lucanis: Keeps Wrath content. (Wrath is Spite's previous name?)

Lucanis: Viago said it'd be a fitting spot. Rook: You've proven it's a good spot for an ambush. Lucanis: And you're loud. Which do you think will attract the Antaam?

Meeting with Ashur

It seems as if Lucanis and the Viper were discussing their business, and then Rook came.

Lucanis: You're sure? The Viper: If you don't trust my intel— Lucanis: I trust your intel and... Lucanis: Fortunate the Rook is here to save the day. Rook: The Rook can detect sarcasm!

Option: Ashur, you shouldn't be here. Rook: Ashur, if the Antaam find out you're here... The Viper: I've paid the right people so that they don't.

Option: This isn't Minrathous. Rook: Either I took a wrong turn somewhere or you did… Rook: Your Holiness.

Option: You two make quite the pair. Rook: The Viper and the Demon. Sounds like a nursery rhyme to scare children.

The Viper: I was just leaving. Rook: Leaving so soon? Rook: You don't have to. Lucanis and I could show you the sights. Rook: There's wine tasting, Antaam assassinating, gambling— Lucanis: Rook. The Viper: Go ahead. I can afford it. Lucanis: (Grumbles.) Course you can. The Viper: You're ruining Rook's fun. Rook: Think about my offer.

The Viper: Should I pay now or— Lucanis: Just go.

Rook: What did he want? Lucanis: Some of us have work to do. Lucanis: It's about time I take care of things at home.

Rook: Who's the mark? Lucanis: Venatori who fled Minrathous after Elgar'nan's fall. Rook: That's why Ashur was here. Lucanis: He's the one who hired me to dismantle the Venatori in the first place. Lucanis: Might as well finish the job.

The most unclear part

Maybe it's related to the quest to kill the Venatori that Viper pointed out.

Rook: Can't take the huge door. Lucanis: The Venatori are inside. Strike from above and we'll take them by surprise. Rook: Above, eh? Rook: Good thing I'm not afraid of heights.

Rook: Not sure why Antivans even build doors. Rook: We never use them. (Crow Origin) Rook: You never use them. Lucanis: We're the Antivan-fucking-Crows.

Rook: We need to be cautious. Rook: If we're not careful, he'll kill the girl. Lucanis: Not if he's dead.

Lucanis: Focus on the self-important bastard. I'll take care of the rest. Rook: They're all self-important—and why do you get so many? Lucanis: Their predictability makes them easy targets.

Venatori: Two, four, six piggies come to slaughter. Venatori: Be grateful. Your meager existence will serve a higher cause. Rook: I'll show you a higher cause right up your— Venatori: (Grunts!) Venatori: Uh—God killer! Right he— Lucanis: Mage killer. Venatori: (Yells in pain) Rook: Lucanis! That's cheating! Lucanis!

Lucanis: Fucking Venatori. Rook: (Sigh) You can take the blood mages out of Minrathous, but…

[merrinla]

Prison of Regret cut content

According to the devnotes in the text file, the prison was originally different from what we see in the game. Rook first wandered in the darkness, then along a bloody path among fallen comrades. In the end, the path was supposed to lead to the Demon of Regret who could change its appearance and voice to put pressure on Rook. There was a choice to confront it or give in.

Alone in the Dark Rook awakes in darkness, alone. Chains appear to have attached themselves to Rook. Attempting to gain a bearing, Rook starts to hear a voice. The voice sounds like Solas, but different. A path appears before them. Rook attempts to get answers from the voice while following the trail. Blood Leading the Blind The path resembles blood dripping over the edge of a cliff. The trail disappears after rook moves forward. The Voice returns to inform Rock they have swapped places with Solas. Rook Demands answers, but is taunted in return. A small light appears at the end of the path. Reaching the Light fills the screen with white. A still image of Solas appears when the white fades. He is striding out of a opening in the fade. This scene is identical to the one where Rock was moments ago. Approaching Solas triggers a banter about Solas with the voice. Approaching the Portal triggers a banter about the prison. Reminded of the Lost The set pieces fade away into the darkness, the path continues beyond. Escaped, but the battle has just begun. Figures come into view as Rook travels down the path. They are the fallen followers from the Ghilan'nain's battle, Frozen in their death throes. The scene is frozen in time capturing the moments Rooks followers died along with a scene of Ghilan'nain. Taunted by the Lost The followers that died taunt rook. Banter will play as players fumble around the space and while they progress down the path. Banter line about the First Fallen Follower Banter line about the Second Fallen Follower Another flash of white fills the screen. The mighty have Fallen Rook finds themselves on the walls of Weisshaupt. Similar to earlier, the scene is frozen in time. Rook walks the ramparts with the still battle around them. The voice speaks of moments from the battle. Banter line about Ghilan'nain. Manipulation Manifest The voice asks why Rook is here. Rook responds by mentioning Varric. The scene fades away. Rook finds themselves on another trail, however this time there is a doorway at the end outlined in the darkness. Passing through the doorway leaves Rook inside Varrics room. Suddenly the furniture and the walls will fall away, revealing a pile of rocks. Approaching the rocks triggers the Varric Reveal scene. First/second/third/fourth banter of characters. Get the Characters speaking about Varric. Challenge the Demon of Regret by walking towards it. Regret Changes its appearance and voice to imitate characters Rook has interacted with in an attempt to stop Rook in their tracks. Changes again to another character. Changes to one last character. Within the Conversation there are non-standard game overs depending on which response is chosen. Give-in to Regret Confront Regret Approaching the Demon, Rook overcomes their regret. Triggering the outro cine. Rook emerges from the Prison, where all their followers await them. After the hugs and jubilation, the group sets off to stop Solas and Elgar'nan will new found determination.

The text also contains some lines from the dialogue with the demon.

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What is this! Is someone there! Hello! Rook. Solas? Solas, you...! It's like... walking against a wall. Follow the line, I guess. Where does this lead?

What... what am I seeing? It's what you chose. The tipping point. What are you? What's the point of this? This is the truth of your actions. Your tipping point.

The moment of freedom. A god walks free, because another took his place. Someone who played the role. Solas built a cage that could hold the gods. You trapped him, but were also his way out. You're not Solas. What are you? Another god? I am the lock on this prison.

Keep going, Rook. It's a long way back. Back? To what...? I'm not moving without answers! I deserve answers. You will get what you deserve.

You're more like Solas than you know. It's the blood on your hands. What blood? Show me!

Neve/Bellara? No. You're fake, like Solas.

(Neve banter) I fought for you, Rook. You led me to this. She'd call me Trouble, make some joke to hide how she feels. She wasn't fighting for me. She wouldn't say that.

(Bellara banter) Was this what I fought for, Rook? Was it worth it? She'd never say that. Every moment was worth it. She knew why she was fighting. Didn't need me to tell her.

You're not her. Not real. Live long enough, the only thing that's real is what you've lost.

(Harding banter) I did everything for you, Rook. And then you left me. Lace would blame herself. That would hurt more. Her voice, but she'd never try to hurt someone like that. You don't know her. Not like I did.

(Davrin banter) I saved you, Rook. What was the point? That's not how he'd challenge me. How he'd tease me about it. He'd have saved anyone. Done it for the challenge alone. You don't know him. Not like I did.

If the pain is great enough, appearances can be all that matter.

You're stealing these voices. If this is the Fade, are you a demon? I've been a mage long enough to know a demon when I hear one. These voices can't fool a Mourn Watcher. You're a demon. A mimic. You're trying to confuse me, but I'm a Veil Jumper. You're a demon. I am Regret. The Regret of a god. And you are a speck that I will consume forever. You feed me regardless.

Wardens, hold the wall! This is our house! Hold that wall, Wardens! Push them back!

A face in the sky. Like no Blight before. The Mother of Monsters.  Like no Blight before.

Weisshaupt. I fought beside my fellow Wardens. And they're dead, aren't they. It wasn't a normal Blight. The gods changed everything.

That's Weishaupt. I saved the Wardens. You saved some of the Wardens.

I came to warn them. Their plan wasn't going to work. I tried to warn them. The gods changed everything. They didn't know about the gods. Why were you here? I told you, to warn them. That's what you came to do, not why you were here.

But why you, Rook? Because I trapped Solas. Because Varric—

Why show me this? To make me give up?

Ascend. What? Rise to match the gods. Rise above those who died. See why you lead.

You won't keep me here! Said it yourself, this cage is for gods! I'm not like them! Not like Solas! "A cage built for gods." Or mortals with delusions.

I'll get out, you know. I get out of things. Solas got out. Stubborn. Another thing you and Solas share. Another? What's the first? The regret. The blood on your hands.

You want to know how he swapped places with you? How your regret could match his? Every choice you've made, you owe to this. This is the moment that put lives in your hands. Welcome to your cage. The moment why you lead.

When Varric showed you the cost of leadership. And the god of lies regretfully killed him. He was always...? Always.

The first fight against Solas? Varric is still... Right where you left him. This... is the moment Varric died. But this regret isn't mine.

The god of lies abhors blood magic, but made an exception for you. He had to do it. You made him do it. Varric died at that ritual. You didn't want to face it. And with a little blood magic, you didn't have to. The moment Solas used. When the blood on your hands clouded your mind. Solas was trapped in his own cage, but if your regret grew, he could escape. Only by trading you. Shaping you. Until your regret matched his. So Varric lived on, in your mind, until it could hit you all at once. This is the end. When he traded his regret for yours. This is the very real loss that let Solas swap his regret... for yours.

Regret is the price we pay for acting when no one else will. That's what leaders say. When they get people killed for the greater good. When they toy with lives.

It was lies. The whole time... I was toyed with. Lied to.

This mistake. This failure. And it can never be undone.

Do you see? How everyone says one thing, but you hear another? (Laughs.) Poor "injured" Varric.

(demon shows Rook memories of the companions?) [TEMP] Mementos - Lucanis [TEMP] Mementos - Bellara [TEMP] Mementos - Harding [TEMP] Mementos - Davrin [TEMP] Mementos - Taash [TEMP] Mementos - Neve [TEMP] Mementos – Emmrich

He's dead. Dead and gone. Your friend is dead. He's always been dead. Varric is dead. It was your fault. You did this. Your fault. You were never up to it. You're no leader. He's gone because of you. You're worthless. Varric never believed in you.

It's just you. Alone. Always alone.

Give up. Lucanis has only spite for you. Give up. Emmrich could never love you. Give up. Die. Taash doesn't care. Give up. Harding deserved better. Give up. Neve deserved better than you. Give up. Bellara needed better than you. Give up. Davrin deserved more than you.

Give up. Your fortune is wasted. End it. Give up. Die. No one will mourn you. Give up. Die behind the Veil. Give up. End this contract. You failed. Give up. You failed your calling. Die. Give up. Fade like the failed shadow you are.

Give up. You're a poor example of your kind. Give up. You failed what's left of the elves. Give up. Your time in the sun is over.

Give up. You can't fight your way out of failure. Give up. Your magical powers can't help you. Give up. There's no evading this death.

Give up. You're alone in the dark, like you deserve. Give up. You could never match those who came before you. Give up. Death is the only role you deserve. Give up. There's no point in even trying. Give up. Die. Like Solas knew you would. Give up. This is what your failure deserves. Give up. No one believed in you. End it.

You're right. I can't go on. I can't deal with the loss. Lies win in the end. Regret is too much to bear. It's too much... There's nothing...

I give up. I failed Harding/Neve/Bellara/Lucanis/Davrin/Taash/Emmrich.

I give up. I'm no Shadow Dragon/Warden/ Veil Jumper/Mourn Watcher/ Lord of Fortune. I give up. I failed the Crows.

I yield. I failed as a human/elf/qunari/dwarf.

I'm a failure as a mage/warrior/rogue.

I give up. I have no one. I failed the heroes before me.

Delicious.

I'll face regret. Keep going.

Things always seem impossible. Just fight one battle at a time. You're not in this alone. Go on, Rook. It was always you. You got this. You know bullshit when you smell it, and that demon is full of it.

Varric?

How dare you make me lose him twice! Using Varric was a mistake. If you really knew what Varric meant, you wouldn't have used him. You didn't take his voice. You couldn't, could you? Because it's always been a comfort! "Things always seem impossible. Just fight one battle at a time." "I know I can handle this." "It's not a personal failing to be scared!" "I'm not in this alone." "As bad as things are, I have what I need." What are you doing? Varric knew the risks. Knew what it might cost. I didn't lose him. Solas killed him! Solas did this, and he'll pay! You think you can break me with what I've lost? What Solas took? I don't regret this. But gods be damned, Solas will! He built this prison, not me! Solas lied, made me lie to myself! I won't be caged by what he did! I can see through the regret. I see through you! I can regret, but keep going! That loss might have ended me! But not now! You think you can hold me? That you're the first regret to try? I have friends to fight for! And no regret will keep me from them! I get beat up. Get sad. That's what life does. It hurts, and then I get back up! All I can do is keep going! All I can do is keep trying! Varric chose me. Saw something worthwhile! You're damned right he's why I'm here! I can't regret what he did for me! More time with him was a gift! All you've done is remind me why I try. The value of the friends I have left! Shown me how much I need them! I know they're waiting for me! You think you can keep me from them! You think you can keep me here? Keep me from what matters? All of this hurts, but you're wrong about me! I'm not alone! Not in my heart! I found love! That's my light in the dark! Nothing can keep us apart! Not gods! Not you! I regret nothing about the time we had. Nothing! (Growl!)

[merrinla]

I was confused that after returning from prison of regrets, Rook was immediately dragged to a hub meeting. Turns out that after the prison, your love interest insisted that everyone leave Rook alone and send them to rest. And only then there was a meeting.

Rook: Solas? (?): We're not sure. Probably searching for some way to defeat Elgar'nan. (?): We don't know. Not really. We were so busy looking for you we… lost track. option: It's been two weeks. Rook: I was… what? Two weeks? option: A two-week long day. Rook: Apparently my hard day lasted two weeks. (?): Yes, you were gone two weeks. Which means you need rest, food, and water. (Emmrich?): Yes, my love. Which is why you shouldn't rush out just yet. (?): Enough of this. You need food and rest. We'll talk business later. (Taash?): Yeah. So you need rest. We can talk about the other crap later. Davrin: We'll talk about this later. You need some rest and Assan needs feeding. (?): Everyone please stop. Rook needs rest, and… food, probably… (?): Yeah. A lot happened. But it can wait. Until you've had some rest. (?): Yeah. There's a lot to catch up on. After you rest, anyway. Rook: Thanks, Bellara. Bellara: Of course. I'm here for you. Whenever you're ready. Rook: Lucanis… Lucanis: Go get some sleep before you collapse. If anybody knows how bad that is, it's me. Rook: Taash… Taash: You need rest. I'll make you tea. Do you want ginger or lavender? Rook: Emmrich, I can't… Emmrich: Please. For the sake of one who's missed your company. Rook: Rest? There's so much… (?): There always is. Don't worry. I won't start without you. Rook: I can't rest, there's too much— (?): Who knows you best? Rook: But there's so much to— (?): Please, Rook. For me. option: Then let's all take a break. Rook: Everything you've done, you all deserve a rest as much as I do. option: Not too long Rook: The gods can wait a little while longer. Rook: Not for too long. But fine, I'll go rest. And hey, it's nice of you to care. (?): You're quite welcome. (?): It's good to have you back. (?): I'm so glad we got you back. (?): It didn't feel right with you gone. (?): Rest well, Rook. Davrin: Assan will be happy to see you. (?): Yep. What they said. (?): I'll see you in a bit.

I wonder how the decision was made to remove this content. This is a scene where LI worries and cares about the player's character. No no no, let's cut it!

I mean, if it's in the localization file and translated into 11 languages, then it was most likely already voiced and implemented in the game.

[merrinla]

There's a mysterious area in the Prison of Regrets that isn't shown in the game. But even after exploring this place, it's unclear what it was meant for.

Elven architecture is featured here, although of the entire pantheon, only statues of Mythal are found. Perhaps this place refers specifically to her. A temple?

It's also the only sunny area on this map.

No interactions, but if you move Rook here, you can take a walk. The future version of Dex, made by @khaleesinz, helped me with this.

Usually when location is created for the background, you fall into the void. So I think this area was intended for something.

[merrinla]

Dragon Age Joplin - Davrin's content

Even though the Project Joplin was cancelled and much was removed, the DAtV script contains scenes from Davrin's post-recruitment on the Dumat submarine. However, this content was more rewritten than removed. Unlike Calpernia or tevinter spy Lucanis, Davrin's concept hasn't changed much. But there are still some differences.

It's unknown under what circumstances Davrin and Rook met, but by that time the griffons had already been kidnapped. Davrin was reluctant to discuss this topic. Later on the Dumat, Rook gets to know Davrin better and they discuss griffons, the times when he was a First to Eldrin, why he left his clan and joined the Grey Wardens. There is no mention of Isseya here, but of exotic creature hunters who sell them on the black market.

Below are quite a few lines that I have manually sorted as best I could.

Davrin and Assan arrive on the Dumat. Previously, it was a player base similar to the Normandy from Mass Effect, only wrapped in Dragon Age.

Ship captain is not very happy about the presence of the griffon. Yes, according to the artbook, Dumat had its own captain. Rook also mentions him.

Captain: Rook, you're okay with letting this creature onboard? Rook: And you're not? Captain: This vessel's designed to go underwater. It works because the water stays outside the vessel. Anything that damages it- Davrin: He won't be a problem. He'll behave. Captain: You can't know that. Captain: It's been centuries since anyone cared for one.

Option: Their exploits are legendary. Rook: You're looking at one of the most legendary animals that ever lived, one that saved Thedas from several blights, one we thought was extinct... Rook: And you want to kick it off the ship? Davrin: (shrugs) Growing pains. He's still trying 'legendary' on for size.

Option: It's an honor. Rook (Grey Warden): As a Grey Warden myself, it's an honor to have such a magnificent animal onboard. Rook: It's a privilege to have such a magnificent animal onboard.

Option: I see your point. Rook: One leak and we could all be in trouble. Davrin: We'll be careful. Besides, I think it's already settled — unless you can move him? Assan: (Squawk) Davrin: (grins) He says you're welcome to try.

Captain: Can it can breathe underwater? Davrin: He's not a fish. Captain: (terse) Then when it punctures the hull it'll be extinct again.

Rook: Heh, get a few bottles of Dragon Piss in the captain and he'll be asking to ride Assan in no time. Rook: Welcome aboard. Davrin: Impressive ship. Makes a nice hunting blind for whatever lives down here. Rook: It's the monsters on land we're worried about. Davrin: Yeah. Seen my share of those. Davrin: Course, none of them were gods. Makes things interesting.

Option: Solas is a formidable opponent. Rook: Don't let Solas' "divinity" fool you. Or his good manners. He's ruthless and won't stop until everyone in this world is dead. Davrin: Not if I get him first. Davrin: Dread Wolf or not, he's still a wolf, and wolves can be hunted. Davrin: (amused chuckle) Sorry, once you put the smell of blood in the water, no stopping me.

Option: You're not worried? Rook: And that doesn't worry you? Davrin: In my experience that's when the world gets interesting. Rook: Or dangerous. Davrin: The code I live by is pretty simple: every shadow I confront makes me stronger. Davrin: Forges some steel in the soul.

Rook: Driven, aren't you? Davrin: That happens when you've got an expiration.

Rook (Grey Warden): (understands; quietly) The Deep Roads. Davrin: I don't know about you, but the day I answer the call, I want it to be as a man who gave more to the world than he took.

Davrin: Someday the Deep Roads will call. Davrin: And the day I answer it, I want it to be as a man who gave more to the world than he took.

Davrin: (laughs) And along the way kicked death in the balls every chance I got.

Flirt option: I like your confidence. Rook: You're bold. I like that. Davrin: That's how you win. Rook: (flirty) A battle? Or...other things? Davrin: (laughs) You don't waste anytime, do you? Looking for a little fun on the side while we save the world? Rook: Testing the waters. Davrin: Well, I like a challenge. Rook: What kind? Davrin: Depends. Are you the sort that likes to hunt? Or be hunted?

Flirt option: I like to hunt. Rook: If I want something, I grab it. Davrin: If you can catch it. Rook: Not hard when it's standing right in front of you.

Flirt option: I like to be chased. Rook: I'm all about the thrill of the chase. If you can catch me. Davrin: There's a doubt? You've seen what I can do. Rook: Didn't say it was you I wanted to catch me. Davrin: And so it begins.

Option (possibly cutt off flirt): Sorry. I overstepped. Rook: You know what — I think maybe I came on too strong. Didn't mean to. Davrin: (smiles) I'll keep that in mind. Davrin: I can handle it. Way I see these things, wilting flowers never catch the bee.

Option: Thanks for the talk. Rook: I'm glad you joined, Davrin. Davrin: Glad to be here, Rook.

Davrin: I may not be the type to hang 'round Orlesian parties putting on airs and licking boots, but I do know my way around trouble. Davrin: So you just point me where you need me.

Later, Rook could talk to Davrin on various topics on the ship.

Davrin: Rook. Something on your mind?

Option: Tell me about the griffon. Rook: I know you said Assan was sensitive business, but we can't have any secrets on the Dumat. Davrin: I appreciate that. But I don't know everyone on the Dumat, not yet.

Option (GW Rook): I'm a Grey Warden. Rook: We're both Grey Wardens. That should count for something. Davrin: It does. If you're one of the good ones. Rook: Am I? Davrin: Haven't disappointed yet.

Option (Dalish Rook): We're both Dalish. Rook: We're both Dalish. That should count for something. Davrin: Like you trust every Dalish you meet? (laughs) Well, I figure if I've misjudged you, then I'm wrong about a lot of other things.

Option: You can trust them. Rook: We're a team. We have to start trusting each other. Davrin: When it's earned. Anyone messes with Assan here and I re-arrange their skull into little pieces of skull. Rook: I'd help you. Davrin: Well....fair enough.

Option: Then trust me. Rook: Well you can trust me at least. I trusted you. Davrin: (grins) Right. Bait. I guess that counts for something.

Davrin: So most people know, Grey Wardens used to ride griffons into battle against darkspawn. This went on for centuries. Davrin: But during the Fourth Blight, about 400 years ago, they went extinct. Exactly why has always been something of a mystery. Davrin: Though we know the griffons were tainted somehow. Infected by the Blight. After that they died off.

Option: Then how is Assan alive? Rook: Yet somehow Assan here survived. How? Davrin: A clutch of eggs was found not too long ago. Hidden all these centuries. Rook: A clutch? You mean Assan isn't the only one? Davrin: That's the "sensitive business". The Wardens ordered me to look into it. Quietly. I don't have any answers yet.

Option: Why did you leave your clan? Rook: I take it from this business with Keeper Eldrin that you left your clan at some point? Davrin: When I was younger, I was a First to Eldrin. He saw me as his apprentice. Spent all my time studying history with him. Davrin: We'd talk about elves who'd been dead for thousands of years and would keep on being dead for a thousand more. Davrin: Then I had my first Arlathvhen. Other Dalish clans would come and we'd argue about the old legends and maybe change the wording of some scroll. Davrin: That's when it hit me. The same old stories being told. Nothing new. Isolated from the world. We weren't growing.

Option (Elf Rook): I never paid attention. Rook: To be honest, I didn't pay much attention to our history. Rook: Well, if I'd known we were going up against the Dread Wolf himself...

Option (Elf Rook): Solas is part of our stories. Rook: Yet Solas is one of us. He's a big part of that lore.

Option: Solas is part of those stories. Rook: Yet Solas is an elf. He's a big part of your mythology.

Davrin: Oh, I know irony when I see it.  The Dread Wolf was once just a name in dusty old books.

Option (Elf Rook): Our history fascinates me. Rook: I've always found the history of our people fascinating.

Option: Elven lore fascinates me. Rook: I've always thought the history of your people is fascinating.

Davrin: It is, but it's history. We spent all our time obsessing over things that couldn't be changed.

Davrin: Eventually I left the clan. It broke Keeper Eldrin's heart. He thought I was trying to forget the Dalish side of me. Rook: Were you? Davrin: More like finding a new side. See the world. Bring something new back to my people. Davrin: But that stretched on for at least a decade, and, well... Rook: Do you regret it? Davrin: I know Eldrin did.

Option: Why join the Grey Wardens? Rook: How did you end up in the Grey Wardens? Davrin: After I left my clan, I spent years wandering Thedas as a hunter for hire. Sharpened my skills and made some coin while I was at it. Davrin: But I needed a bigger challenge. Davrin: So I knocked on the door at Weisshaupt and told them I wanted to kill every darkspawn I could find.

Option: It's not that simple. Rook (GW): You're talking to a Warden. We both know it's not that simple. Rook: I don't imagine the life of a Warden is that simple. Davrin: It can be. If you embrace your fate, use it to motivate you. They say age grants wisdom - well, I don't want to wait that long. Davrin: What good is it if I'm old and need help taking a piss? Joining the Wardens gave me a deadline.

Option: That sounds crazy. Rook: There must be other challenges in life that don't end in corruption and death in the Deep Roads. Davrin: I'm not trying to live forever. Joining the Wardens gave me a deadline.

Davrin: By the time I hear the Calling I better have made my mark.

Option: Tell me about your code. Rook: I'd like to hear more about this code of yours. Davrin: Simple, really. The only way to know the measure of your own light is to hold yourself up to the darkness. Davrin: Some people sit around chantries saying prayers and burning candles. Just a lot of melted wax. Davrin: What good is a candle if there's no shadows to ward off?

Option: It's useless. Rook: It's just ceremony. Davrin: And proves nothing.

Option: Shadows scare people. Rook: People avoid the dark for good reason. A lot of nasty things live there. Davrin: Not if you meet them head on. Davrin: The only way to know your own strength - to  turn your candle into a torch - is by confronting the shadows. Davrin: That's what the monsters of this world really are — the darkspawn, demons from the Fade, or Solas.... Davrin: They're kindling for our own light. We need them. Rook: That's one way of looking at it. Davrin: We'd go soft otherwise.

Option: Goodbye. Rook: That's it for now. Davrin: Drop by whenever you like.

Next, when Davrin trusts Rook more, there is a cutscene with Assan, in which he finally tells what happened to the griffons in the fortress.

Assan: (Squawk) Davrin: Quiet! Assan: (Squawk) Davrin: (exasperated) Assan, it's explained right here in the manual— when I say "Quiet" you're supposed to be quiet. Davrin: Rook. Glad you're enjoying the show. It's the one command he refuses to learn.

Flirt option: Try charm? Davrin: There are other ways to get what you want. Maybe try that smile of yours?

It seems the lines are different, Rook chose the role of the hunter or be hunted.

Davrin: (chuckles; smiles) And now I feel like I'm being hunted. Rook: There it is. Davrin: (teasing) Who said this smiles was for you?

Davrin: (chuckles; smiles) Didn't realize you noticed? Rook: There it is. Davrin: (teasing) Well, soak it up while it lasts...

Davrin: Let's see if Assan cares...

Option: Ask nicely? Rook: Or it could be the one giving the command. Maybe he needs to hear "please"? Davrin: It's not supposed to be a negotiation. Davrin: Well, maybe a little...

Option: You'll need to earn it. Rook: I don't expect my team to just do whatever I say. Respect is earned. Davrin: Unless you can buy it...

Option: Assert yourself. Rook: You need to let him know who's in charge. Davrin: I will, as soon as I figure it out. Have you seen what his beak can do? Davrin: Best to keep it busy.

Davrin: (to Assan) How 'bout some nice salmon for a nice quiet griffon? Assan: (Squawk) Rook: Sounds like Assan agrees? Davrin: Nah, just means he's hungry. Pretty much all he ever talks about.

Rook (GW): In my time with the Wardens, I've heard stories about griffons choosing their riders, not the other way around. Rook: I've heard griffons used to choose their riders, not the other way around. Davrin: It's true. And only fair given what we asked of them. They'll tear into darkspawn without hesitation; challenge an archdemon head on. Davrin: But that's because the Grey Wardens raised them to.

Option: We'd be dead otherwise. Rook: And we're all still alive because of it. They helped end the blights. Davrin: Just wish they hadn't gotten the raw end of the deal.

Option: That's a pity. Rook: I suppose they weren't really given a choice. Davrin: Well, they're good at it. Natural hunters with an instinct for the kill. Wardens just focused that instinct.

Rook: And what about Assan? Has he chosen you yet? Davrin: He's still sizing me up. Though I'm not sure I want him to — he's pure, like the halla I chased as a boy. Davrin: Beautiful white stags, bigger than a deer. The Dalish part of me wonders what a wild griffon would be like.

Option: Intimidating. Rook: With that temper, I imagine they'd own the skies. Davrin: And maybe everything else too. Not a lot can stop them.

Option: Free. Rook: Free to find a new purpose in the world, I imagine. Davrin: (musing) Yeah. Leave the past behind them.

Option: Lost. Rook: Hunting darkspawn is what they do. Without that purpose they'd be lost. Davrin: [chuckles] Not sure if you're talking about the griffons or me.

Rook: Any word on the others? Davrin: I wanted to talk to you about that. When the Wardens found these griffons, they put them in quarantine. Davrin: It was a remote fortress, in case they were tainted. Then the place was attacked, the griffons went missing. Rook: Are there others griffons? Davrin: For a long time, no. Griffons died out during the Fourth Blight. But Assan was part of a clutch of griffons found a few years ago, hidden away. Davrin: Grey Wardens put them in quarantine at a remote fortress, in case they were tainted. Then the place was attacked. Rook: What happened? Davrin: The griffons went missing. Assan was the only one left. But I've gotten word — there's a black market that specializes in monsters and beasts. Davrin: It's a traveling caravan. Moves around the wilds. And someone said they spotted a griffon.

On Davrin's page in the DAtV artbook, you can see the concept of this market.

Option: This caravan sells monsters? Rook: What do you know about this caravan? Davrin: Ruthless band of hunters. They trap anything they can find and sell it to the highest bidder. Rook: And they have a griffon? Davrin: If they do, it'll be snapped up. And after that...nothing good. A lot of mages and cultists dabbling in the black arts buy from them. Davrin: A griffon would be a prize like no other.

Option: Tell me about the quarantine. Rook: What happened with the quarantine? Davrin: We lost contact with the fortress. So I was part of a group sent to investigate. We found a massacre. Rook: The Wardens? Davrin: Dead Wardens. And missing griffons...well, all except one. I was searching the undercroft when I found him - Assan. He'd been hiding. Davrin: Tried attacking me on sight he was so terrified. It took two days before I could coax him out of there. After that, I was the only one he'd trust.

Option: The griffon was alive? Rook: The other griffons could still be alive? Davrin: At least one. We need to check it out before this caravan pulls up stakes.

Rook: I'll see what we can do. Davrin: Can't wait too long. Only a handful of griffons left in the world.

[merrinla]

In the Venatori camp there was an option to stand in line with the the others. Then the Venatori would start paying attention to our ragtag gang and someone would pester one of the companions, depending on who was in the party. Except for Lucanis (he managed on his own), Neve came to everyone's rescue.

Companions: Guards. We'll need to get past them. Somehow. How do we get past those guards? We must get past those guards. Uh-oh. Guards. What's the plan for the guards? How do we get past the guards without killing 'em?

Rook: Leave it to me.

Companions: We're waiting in line? Really? Are we actually waiting in line? We're joining the queue? You're making us wait in line? They're going to spot us in the queue.

Rook: Barging through will just make us look suspicious.

Venatori talk: For the glory of Tevinter reborn. Move along. Hey! I was here first! One at a time. There's no need to push.

Companions: Rook? People are staring. Really staring. Rook, people are starting to stare at us. People are taking notice of us, Rook. People are looking at us, Rook. Rook. People are staring. I can smell it.

Rook: It's fine. Just act normal.

Venatori: Is that an elf? Here? Neve: My servant. Is there a problem? Bellara: Mistress takes me everywhere! She's so kind! Neve: Bellara. Bellara: Sorry, Mistress! Venatori: No, of course not. I apologize.

Venatori: Is that an elf? Here? Venatori: That's a Qunari! Here! Neve: My bodyguard. Would you like a demonstration?

Davrin: Would your ladyship like me to defend your honor? Venatori: No, that's quite all right.

Taash: (Growls.) Venatori: Uh, no, never mind.

Venatori: Hm. Are those Mourn Watch rings? Emmrich: Ah! Yes, they were given to me by— Neve: He murdered their previous owner for insulting his magic. Emmrich: Oh, yes, of course. That. It was very rude of him. Venatori: I think there's blood on your robes. Neve: Is there? Well, my servants shall hear of this.

Venatori: Is that a dwarf? Here? Neve: She's just short. Harding: Right. Just a short Venatori. For the risen gods! Neve: For the glory of Tevinter reborn.

Venatori: Don't I know you from somewhere? Lucanis: Nigel Serpentus Gordian, of the Asariel Gordians. Perhaps we've met? Venatori: No, I... I must've been mistaken. Neve: "Nigel"? Lucanis: What? I would make a great Nigel.