Dragon Age 2 features several secondary quests that test Hawke's morality and impact party relationships during the early stages of the game. The Loose Ends quest in Act 1 offers players an intense contract involving mercenary work, city guards, and political noblemen in Kirkwall. Navigating this mission properly requires understanding how your decisions affect companion approval and financial rewards.
Unlocking the Loose Ends Quest in Act 1
To begin the Loose Ends quest, Hawke must first complete the Birthright companion mission in Act 1. Afterwards, head to Lowtown at night and locate Meeran outside the Hanged Man tavern if you previously allied with his mercenary group. Meeran will offer an assassination contract targeting a high-profile nobleman named Lord Harimann who has drawn the mercenary group's ire.
Alternatively, players who chose to align with Athenril's smugglers will receive a variation of this mission outside The Blooming Rose. Depending on your initial choice upon entering Kirkwall, the quest dynamics shift slightly to match your employer's goals. Regardless of the path, both versions lead Hawke toward an intense confrontation at the Kirkwall Docks.
Navigating the Docks Encounter and Combat
Upon traveling to the Docks, players will discover Meeran's associate, Gustav, being interrogated by city guards. Armed conflict quickly erupts between Hawke's party and the guards, requiring careful tactical positioning. Controlling the stairways near the landing area helps manage additional waves of archers and foot soldiers that join the skirmish.
Utilizing a dedicated tank companion like Aveline is essential to absorb incoming long-range damage during the chaotic fight. Keeping area-of-effect spells active will quickly clear out weak hostile units before they swarm fragile mages. Once all city guards are defeated, Lord Harimann arrives to address Hawke directly.
Confronting Lord Harimann: Kill or Spare Choice
When speaking with Lord Harimann, Hawke is presented with a critical decision regarding the assassination contract. Players can strictly adhere to Meeran's contract by executing the nobleman on the spot. Fulfilling the kill satisfies the mercenaries and ensures Hawke receives a substantial monetary reward upon reporting back.
Conversely, Hawke can choose to spare Lord Harimann after learning about his role in sending aid to Denerim. Sparing his life breaks the mercenary agreement, resulting in Meeran refusing to pay Hawke any gold. However, choosing mercy aligns far better with certain companions' moral standards and long-term narrative goals.
Companion Reactions and Story Outcomes
Your ultimate decision during the Loose Ends quest significantly influences party approval ratings across your companions. Sparing Lord Harimann earns valuable friendship points with Aveline, Varric, Anders, and Carver. These companions view execution as unnecessary murder, making a merciful resolution ideal for diplomatic playthroughs.
On the other hand, executing Harimann satisfies more aggressive playstyles and earns approval from ruthless companions. Choosing to kill him seals your standing with Meeran's group while solidifying Hawke's reputation in Kirkwall's underworld. Balancing financial gain against companion loyalty remains the primary challenge of this Act 1 secondary quest.
