Let's play - Dragon Age: Origins (finished)

[lightbane]

Perception: Brother None, it looks like Photobucket is messing with you...

 

[Brother None]

[Intelligence] Ah, so you're saying Photobucket is messing with me.

[Perception] Actually, I think you're talking to Twinkle.

 

[lightbane]

(Wisdom) It seems my sight is failing me or that I was reading this lp and the sanitarium one in separate windows and I got confused with the nicks, in any case, Twinkle, the images don't show up.

 

[Twinkle]

Freaking photofuckit couldn't handle the awesomeness of this LP and hit bandwidth limit.

I'll re-upload pics on several different hosting sites after completing Lothering.

 

[poocolator]

Is he going to tea-bag him?

 

[Twinkle]

World map. Only Lothering is available.

A cutscene interrupts our travels

Loghain: ... and I expect each of you to supply these men. We must rebuilt what was lost at Ostagar, and quickly.

Loghain: There are those who would take advantage of our weakened state if we let them. We must defeat this darkspawn incursion, but we must do so sensibly and without hesitation.

Bann Teagan: Your lordship, if I might speak?

Bann Teagan: You have declared yourself Queen Anora's regent, and claim we must unite under your banner for our own good.

Bann Teagan: But what of our army lost at Ostagar? Your withdrawal was most... fortuitous.

Nobles: Wow.

Loghain: Everything I have done has been to secure Ferelden's independence. I have not shirked my duty to the throne and neither will any of you!

Bann Teagan: The Bannorn will not bow to you simply because you demand it!

Loghain: Understand this: I will brook no threat to this nation... from you or anyone!

He leaves.

Queen Anora: Bann Teagan, please!

Bann Teagan: Your Majesty. Your father risks civil war. If Eamon were here...

Queen Anora: Bann Teagan, my father is doing what is best.

Bann Teagan: Did he also do what was best for your husband, your Majesty?

"Random" encounter:

And look who we have here...

But doggy brought several guests to the party.

Oh, we need a name for our dog. Somethning innovative. Something imaginative. Something creative. We'll call him DAWG.

Dawg: (He wags his tail happily and pants.)

Bro: (Pet the hound).

Alistair: I think he was out there looking for you. He's chosen you. Mabari are like that. They call it imprinting.

Morrigan: Does this mean we're going to have this mangy beast following us about now? Wonderful.

Alistair: He's not mangy!

Bro: He can come, but he'd better make himself useful.

Morrigan: And yet we still have Alistair along...

Dawg: (Happy bark).

Back to the world map

LOTHERING - PART 1

Highwaymen dudes welcome us.

Bandit Leader: Wake up, gentlemen! More travelers to attend to. Led by a dwarf, oddly enough.

Bandit: Er... they don't look much like them others, you know. Uh... maybe we should just let these one pass...

Bandit Leader: Nonsense! Greetings, travelers!

Alistair: Highwaymen. Preying on those fleeing the darkspawn, I suppose.

Morrigan: They are fools to get in our way. I say teach them a lesson.

Bandit Leader: Now is that any way to greet someone? Tsk, tsk, tsk. A simple ten silvers and you're free to move on.

Bro: You should listen to your friend. We're not refugees.

Bandit: What did I tell you? No wagons, and this one looks armed.

Bandit Leader: The toll applies to everyone, Hanric. That's why it's a toll and not, say, a refugee tax.

Bandit: Oh, right. Even if you're no refugee, you still gottta pay.

Bro: Forget it. I'm not paying.

Clearly one of the dumbest bandit encounters in a videogame ever.

Bandit Leader: Well I can't say I'm pleased to hear that. We have rules, you know.

Bandit: Right. We get to ransack your corpse, then. Those are the rules.

Bro: (Intimidate) Do you really want to fight a Grey Warden?

Bandit: Did he say he's a Grey Warden? Them ones killed the king!

Bandit Leader: Traitors to Ferelden, I hear. Teyrn Loghain put quite a bounty on any who are found.

Bandit: But... aren't them Grey Wardens good? I man, really good? Good enough to kill a king?

Bandit Leader: You have a point. Well, let's forget about the toll. We'll just leave you to your darkspawn-fighting, king-killing ways.

Bro: (Persuade) You know, the Grey Wardens could use a donation.

Bandit Leader: You don't say?

Bandit: They is really good, boss. Remember.

Bandit Leader. Well... yes. Twenty silvers? That's all we've collected today.

Bro: Not enough, I'm afraid.

Bandit Leader: And just when we had things settled...

Mind blast works excellent against mindless retardos.

The leader admits his bad, bad behavior.

Bandit Leader: All right! We surrender! We-we-we're just trying to get by, before darkspawn get us all!

Bro: This shoddy operation is pathetic. I could do better.

Bandit Leader: Um... right. I guess so. I'm sorry.

Bro: Hand over everything you've stolen.

Bandit Leader: Yes! Yes, of course. The coins we collected are right here... just over a hundred silvers. The rest is in the chests we brought! I swear!

He hands over money.

Bro: Now you die. That's all you deserve.

Bandit Leader: I'm not going down without a fight!

Too late, dumbfuck. Finished.

There is a knight's corpse nearby with some quest-important stuff.

Time to enter the village.

Alistair: Well there it is. Lothering. Pretty as a painting,

Morrigan: Ah. So you have finally decided to rejoin us, have you? Falling on your blade in grief seemed to much trouble, I take it?

Alistair: Is my being upset so hard to understand? Have you never lost someone important to you? Just what would you do if your mother died?

Morrigan: Before or after I stopped laughing?

Alistair: Right. Very creepy. Forget I asked.

Bro: Just get to the point.

Alistair: Anyway... I thought we should talk about where we intend to go, first.

Bro: We should try and use these treaties, I assume.

Alistair: I agree. Have you looked at them?

Bro: No, not yet.

Alistair: There are three main groups that we have treaties for: the Dalish Elves, the dwarves of Orzammar, and the Circle of Magi.

Alistair: I also still think that Arl Eamon is our best bet for help. We might even want to go to him first.

Bro: Is there a way to contact the Grey Wardens?

Alistair: Short of leaving Ferelden to seek them out, the only place to send word to would be Weisshaupt Fortress, and that's thousands of miles away.

Bro: I'm not sure any of this is good idea.

Alistair: I'm not sure I like any of it, either, but we don't have a lot of choice in the matter.

Morrigan: Of course you have a choice. You could run and forget about it all. Let the darkspawn do as they wish until other Grey Wardens come. If they come.

Alistair: That's what you call a choice?

Morrigan: It may not be a good choice, but it's a choice nevertheless. We all choose our path, even when it seems there is only one direction we should go.

It's funny bit of dialogue with a "choice" stuff, because the game never will allow you to do this.

Alistair: How enlightening. At any rate, I'll stay with you whatever you decide.

Bro: I'm ready to get going.

Alistair: Fair enough. Let's head into the village whenever you're ready.

Refugee camp. Here invisible trigger of emo lies.

IT'S A BITCHING TIME

Morrigan: Stop looking at me, mongrel. I have nothing you want!

Dog: (Whine!)

Morrigan: Why do you keep staring at me so, you flea-ridden beast? Can you not tell when you are not wanted?

Dog: (Whine!)

Morrigan: I enjoy the company of creatures of the wild. Not stench-ridden, domesticated wolves.

Dog: (Whine!)

Morrigan: And he persists! Maddening!

Dog: (Happy bark!)

This one with a bucket on his head serves as a gatekeeper.

Templar: Move on if you can. Lothering's lost.

Bro: I'll go where I want.

Templar: I'm just giving you fair warning.

Templar: We've had refugees streaming from the south for the last two days. The chantry and tavern are full to bursting.

Templar: There simply isn't enough food to go around, and we templars can barely keep order. You'd be better off elsewhere, my friend.

Bro: Out of my way.

Templar: I'll not turn you away. We just ask that you don't bring more problems here. People are frightened.

And soon we witness a funny dialog.

Merchant: Back off! I have the right to charge what I wish!

Fuck yeah, Capitalism FTW!

Sister: You profit from their misfortune! I should have the templars give away everything in your carts!

Ahh, you commie bitch, where are your KGB friends when you need them so much?

Merchant: You wouldn't dare! Any of you step too close to my goods, and I'll--

Alistair: It's so nice to see everyone working together in a crisis. Warms the heart.

Merchant: Ho! You there! You look able! Would you care to make a tiny profit helping a beleaguered businessman?

Bro: Get rid of the "tiny" part, and I'll consider it.

Merchant: A-ha! I'm not the only one with some business sense.

Sister: He is charging outlandish prices for things people desperately need! Their blood is filling his pockets!

Morrigan: 'Tis only survival of the fittest. All of these cretins would do the same in his shoes, given the chance.

Merchant: I have limited supplies. The people decide what those supplies are worth to them.

Sister: You bought most of your wares from these very people last week! Now they flee for their lives, and you want to talk business?

Merchant: Look, stranger, I've a hundred silvers if you'll drive this rabble off, starting with that priest. I am honest merchant, nothing more.

Bro: Can you beat this offer, Sister?

Sister: You want me to bid against him? We don't have that kind of coin!

Then GTFO. It's a free market, sis. Go preach elsewhere and let the smart men do business.

Bro: Then it's time for you to go, isn't it?

Sister: You would actually do the bidding of this evil little man?

Bro: Absolutely. Off you go.

Sister: Fine. May your heartlessness bring you exactly what you deserve.

Morrigan: A fine sentiment, if I've ever heard one.

Alistair: You're so nice. I bet you make alllies everywhere you go.

Merchant: Ha! Serves that wench right! You have my thanks! And 100 silvers, yes?

Bro: And a discount.

Merchant: Right, fair enough. But only you.

Bro: Let's see what you have, then.

Merchant: This way! And beware the urchins... they have grabby little hands.

Morrigan approves(+2).
Alistair disapproves(-3).

Bro makes a use of his discount.

A chantry board for a crappy fetch and kill quests

Near the Chantry's gates

Doomsayer: The legions of evil are on your doorstep! They will feast upon your hearts!

No shit, Sherlock!

Angry Farmer: Please! You're scaring the children!

Doomsayer: Better to slit their throats now than let them suffer at darkspawn hands!

Doomsayer: There! One of the minions is already amongst us! This man bears their evil stench! Can you not see the vile blackness that fills him?

Bro: Watch where you throw accusations, fool!

Angry Farmer: P-please! Stop! Somebody shut his mouth!

Angry Farmer 2: But isn't he right? The bann left us! We're going to die!

Doomsayer: This minion is but the first of those who will destroy us!

Bro: That's enough! This ends now!

Doomsayer: No! Do not touch me! You bring evil and destruction! It is the end!

He runs away.

Chantry Brother: He was right, wasn't he? There's no hope for us...

Bro: That's right. No hope for any of you fools!

Chantry Brother: Please! Tell us what to do!

Bro: Give me your valuables, and your sorry lives may be spared.

Chantry Brother: You... could spare us? It's... it's worth a try.

He gives Bro his money.

Oh. It seems that darkspawn are doing a right thing by clearing Ferelden of such dumbasses.

Chantry doors.

Interior:

FACT: no one gives a shit about a witch in the party.

Ser Bryant: Yes? Who might you be?

Bro: You can call me Bro.

Ser Bryant: I am Ser Bryant, commander of Lothering's remaining templars.

Ser Bryant: You don't seem like the other refugees. Are you one of Arl Eamon's knights?

Bro: Do many of his knights come here?

Ser Bryant: Some have, in recent days.

Ser Bryant: Arl Eamon has fallen ill, and his knights are on a quest for the sacred urn filled with Andraste's ashes, said to cure any malady.

Ser Bryant: He must be very ill if they chase miracles as the only cure.

Ser Bryant: One of the arl's knights, Ser Donall, is here searching for fantasies while...

Ser Bryant: Never mind. Ask him if you care about this foolishness.

Bro: About those bandits outside the village...

Ser Bryant: Maker's breath! How many times must we drive them off?

Bro: They won't bother you again. I killed them.

Ser Bryant: All of them? By yourself?

Ser Varal: It's true. I saw it from my post. It was over so fast we didn't even have time to get over there.

Bunch of dudes in heavy armor couldn't kill them? Fags.

Ser Bryant: Sad that it needed to come to that, but then they asked for it. Will you accept a small reward for your service.

Bro: (Persuade) I could keep an eye out for trouble, for the right pay...

Ser Bryant: I wish I could afford such help, to be truthful. Take your reward, at any rate... it is all I have to offer.

Ser Bryant: If it interests you, there is a chanter's board outside full of quests that need doing. The chanters even offer pay for some of them.

Ser Bryant: Now, unless there's something else you need...?

Bro: I should go.

Ser Bryant: Travel safely, and may the Maker watch over you.

Here's the knight he mentioned.

Ser Donall: Who...?

Alistair: Ser Donall...? Is that you?

Ser Donall: Alistair? By the Maker, how are you? I... I was certain you were dead!

Alistair: Not yet, no thanks to Teyrn Loghain.

Ser Donall: If Arl Eamon were well, he'd set Loghain straight soon enough.

Alistair: So you're here looking for the Urn of Sacred Ashes, then?

Ser Donall: I am, indeed.

Ser Donall: Andraste's ashes are said to cure any illness. But I fear we are chasing a fable. With each day, my hope dims.

Bro: Your friend Ser Henric is dead. I have something of his.

Ser Donall: What?! And you have his locket? And a note?

Ser Donall: Maker's mercy. (Sigh) Thank you for giving me these. I would never have known otherwise.

Bro: Is there a reward, perhaps?

Ser Donall: A reward? Oh, of course. I hope a sovereign is sufficient?

Ser Donall: Thank you. I wonder how many of us have met similar fates on this mad quest.

Bro: I was hopimg to meet Arl Eamon, in fact.

Ser Donall: Why is that, if I may ask?

Bro: I would prefer not to say.

Ser Donall: Whatever the reason, the arl won't be seeing anyone until he's recovered.

Alistair: I don't like the sound of that. We should see Arl Eamon for ourselves and find out what's happening.

Ser Donall: You can travel to Redcliffe if you like... perhaps he has recovered. Or perhaps his son might assist you.

Ser Donall: If nothing else, I am certain you would be welcomed at Castle Redcliffe. The arless is there, and she could tell you more that I could.

Bro: I should go.

Ser Donall: With Henric gone, I need to return to Redcliffe. Perhaps later I will seek out the scholar his note mentions. But I must go.

Ser Donall: Thank you again, good ser. You have been most helpful.

Reading books can net a decent amount of XP.

Nothing to do here for now. Back to the fresh air.

Bro decided to talk with a whiny little fucker near the bridge.

Little boy: Have you seen my mother?

Bro: That depends. Who is your mother?

Little Boy: She's really tall... and she has red hair. We live on the big farmland, all of us.

Little Boy: Some mean men with swords came, and mother told me to run to the village as fast as I could, so I did!

Little Boy: She said she would be right behind me, but I've been waiting and waiting and I can't see her!

Bro: I don't think she's coming, child.

Little Boy: Why not? Why would she leave me here?

Bro: The mean men killed her. She's dead.

Little Boy: But--no! She can't be dead! I'll find her!

Poor elftards stand nearby.

Robbed Man: Greetings, ser dwarf. Your folk are famous for their generousity... Might you spare some bread?

Bro: I can spare nothing for beggars.

Robbed Man: We're not beggars. We were robbed!

Robbed Woman: Never mind, Hale. It's no use. Nobody will help one of us.

Now that's a realistic attitude.

Crossing the bridge turns on another emo conversation trigger.

IT'S A BITCHING TIME.

Alistair: So let's talk about your mother.

Morrigan: I'd rather talk about your mother.

Alistair: There's nothing to talk about. And besides, isn't your mother a scary witch who lives in the middle of a forest? Much more interesting.

Morrigan: To you, perhaps. You would find the moss growing upon a stone interesting.

Alistair: You know what's more interesting than that? Apostates. Mages outside of the Tower. That's illegal, you know.

Morrigan: You did not read that in a book somewhere, did you? I hope the small letters did not strain you overmuch.

Alistair: Or we could not talk about your mother. That works for me.

Crossing the bridge led us to a tavern. Helpful (or'ly) refugee stood near the entrance.

Helpful Refugee: You might not want to go in. Tavern's full, and those soldiers are being a nuisance.

Bro: Thanks for the advice.

Helpful Refugee: It's no trouble.

Helpful Refugee: If you don't mind my asking... I heat folk talk of someone giving those bastards outside the village what they deserved. That wouldn't be you, would it?

Bro: Yes, that was me.

Helpful Refugee: It was? Hey... everyone! This is the one who drove out those thieving bastards!

Helpful Refugee: More will probably come, but it's good to know some justice is left here. Thank you.

In the tavern.

Commander: Well. Look what we have have here, men. I think we've just been blessed.

Alistair: Uh-oh. Loghain's men. This can't be good.

Soldier: Didn't we spend all morning asking about a dwarf by this bery description? And everyone said they hadn't seen one?

Commander: It seems we were lied to.

Leliana: Gentlemen, surely there is no need for trouble. These are no doubt simply more poor souls seeking refuge.

Imoen

Commander: They're more than that. Now stay out of our way, Sister. You protect these traitors, you'll get the same as them.

Bro: It looks like he wants a fight. I'm happy to oblige.

Soldier: Right! Let's make it quick!

After several good punches in the face Loghain's dogs lose their shit.

Commander: All right, you've won! We surrender!

Leliana: Good. They've learned their lesson and we can all stop fighting, now.

Bro: They aim to butcher us! They deserve no mercy!

Commander: Please! Wait!

Leliana: They have surrendered! They were no match for you! Let them be!

Bro: They were going to kill us!

Leliana: But they failed, and I do not wish death on anyone.

Bro: Then give them a final prayer, Sister. (Kill them)

Um, sis, I was joking. Still brain-damaged after all these years?

Leliana: You mean... very well. May the Maker forgive your trespasses. May He keep you in His sight and guide you.

No mercy for the musguided.

Leliana: I apologize for interfering, but I couldn't just sit by and not help.

Bro: So I see. Where does a sister learn to fight like that?

Leliana: I wasn't born in the Chantry, you know. Many of us had more... colorful lives before we joined.

Leliana: Let me introduce myself. I am Leliana, one of the lay sisters of the chantry here in Lothering. Or I was.

You'll be a laid sister, I promise you.

Bro: You can call me Bro, if you must.

Leliana: Those men said you're a Grey Warden. You will be battling the darkspawn, yes? That is what Grey Wardens do?

Leliana: I know after what happened, you'll need all the help you can get. That's why I'm coming along.

Bro: (Lie) These men were mistaken. I'm no Grey Warden.

Leliana: But... oh, I see. Of course. Shall we move on, my completely ordinary and unremarkable friend?

Bro: I'm going to say this slowly. You. Not coming.

Leliana: Ah, I thought you might say that, but you see, the Maker wants me to join you.

Bro: Can you... elaborate?

Leliana: I-I know that sounds... absolutely insane -- but it's true! I had a dream... a vision!

Alistair: More crazy? I thought we were all full up.

Leliana: Look at the people here. They are lost in their despair, and this darkness, this chaos... will spread. The Maker doesn't want this.

Leliana: What you do, what you are meant to do, is the Maker's work. Let me help?

Bro: I need more than prayers, I'm afraid.

Leliana: I can fight. I can do more than fight. As I said, I was not always a lay sister.

Leliana: I put aside that life when I came here, but now... if is the Maker's will, I will take it up again. Gladly. Please let me help you.

Bro: Very well. I will not turn away help when it is offered.

Yeah, I need rogue in a party right now.

Morrigan: Perhaps your skull was cracked worse than Mother thought.

Leliana: Thank you! I appreciate being given this chance. I will not let you down.

Party selection screen. Not too many options.

The sister is equipped with a bow and a leather armor

More quest-givers in the tavern.

Barlin: If you're here about food, take it up with that bleedin' runt by the chantry.

Barlin: I got other gear to sell.

Bro: Don't worry about him. I took care of it.

Barlin: You did? Wel... I don't know what to say to that. Thanks?

Bro: Farewell.

And here we go again.

Barlin: If you're here about food, take it up with that bleedin' runt by the chantry.

Barlin: I got other gear to sell.

Bro: Know of any well-paid work in Lothering?

Barlin: Check the chanter's board by the chantry. There's good jobs here.

Barlin: I don't suppose you know anything about poison?

Bro: (Poison) I have... dabbled in sych things.

Barlin: I figured if I kept asking I'd find someone!

Barlin: I'd pay good coin for some simple poison. Something to slow them beasties down or make them think twice.

Bro: Any idea where I could get ingredients?

Barlin: There's herbs in the north wood. As for other stuff... look around town, some refugees just left things behind to travel faster.

Barlin: I don't really know what you need, though. I might have some in stick, too.

Bro: Show me what you've got.

Blackstone Liaison: As I live and breathe. You're the Grey Warden everyone's been talking about.

Bro: Is there something I can do for you?

Blackstone Liaison: I represent the Blackstone Irregulars. We're a mercenary company that fell on hard times after the war with Orlais.

Blackstone Liaison: I'm sure you know that times are getting worse every day. With your help, the Irregulars could be of use to Ferelden once more.

Bro: Why should I help you?

Blackstone Liaison: The Blackstone Irregulars fought alongside the king's army against Orlais. We've helped nobles defend their land and given our service to people in need for generations.

Blackstone Liaison: Our current captain, Raelnor, is an honorable man who sees that we can do some good in Ferelden once more. He is so confident in our mission that he trusted the Grey Wardens would support us.

Bro: How can I be of service?

Blackstone Liaison: Our leaders thoughts you might be willing to help. Each of our posts in Ferelden will contain letters addressed to you.

Blackstone Liaison: Unlike most who work with us, you're getting orders straight from Raelnor and Taoran, our leaders. I hope this tells you how highly the Irregulars regard the Grey Wardens.

Bro: I'll take a look.

Blackstone Liaison: Thank you. When you've completed a mission, just return to me or any of our members stationed at an Irregulars post. We'll make sure your efforts are rewarded.

Blackstone Liaison: Maker's blessings light your path.

Blackstone Irregulars will provide you boring and easy, but rather well-paid quests.

 

[treave]

Why did you not pick the (paraphrased)"You seem to be making a killing. So am I." line with the merchant?

 

[Twinkle]

There is a g-girl over there under a big exclamation mark.

Allison: Hello... uhh, stranger. I d-don't suppose you know anyone that can make traps?

Bro: What do you need traps for?

Allison: Old Man Barlin said the d-darkspawn may be coming soon. He's got traps on his farm. I figured I'd put a few on my lands.

Allison: But Barlin wants to p-p-poison this traps. I just want normal traps.

Bro: Why don't you just buy some?

Allison: None to be had. Barlin has all the traps in the village in his fields.

Bro: Sorry, I can't make traps.

Allison: I didn't mean to bother you. Sorry!

Since we have nobody with a trap-making skill this quest is skipped.

Oh noes, another emo trigger.

IT'S A BITCHING TIME.

Alistair: So tell me something, Morrigan. Did you live there in that forest your entire life?

Morrigan: I left it on occasion, but I always returned. Why? Is that so strange? It was my home.

Alistair: But it was just you and your mother there? No one else?

Morrigan: Mother occasionally had... company.

Alistair: What? Company? Do I even want to ask?

Morrigan: No. You really don't.

Another lame fetch quest awaits us.

Elder Miriam: You got a bed for the night? You taken care of? (Coughs)

Bro: W-what?

Elder Miriam: Lothering's full up with refugees. Might be space in Allison's barn.

Elder Miriam: Speak up.

Bro: Actually, I was more hoping I could help you.

Elder Miriam: Don't need blades right now. We need beds, food, and and end to all these sad sots.

Elder Miriam: I don't suppose you know anything of tonic, medicines, or herbs?

Bro: I don't, but my friend does.

Elder Miriam: Then you may be able to do us a lot of good.

Elder Miriam: All manner of travelers come through, many injured or sick. We do our best, but we're out of supplies.

Elder Miriam: There's medicinal herbs in the woods to the north. If you make a few poultices, I'll scrape some sort of payment.

Elder Miriam: I'll write all you need to know in this note here.

Oh, look, a prisoner in a cage.

Sten: You are not one of my captors.

Sten: I have nothing to say that would amuse a dwarf. Leave me in peace.

Bro: What are you?

Sten: A prisoner.

Sten: I'm in a cage, am I not? I've been placed here by the Chantry.

Leliana: The revered mother said he slaughtered an entire family. Even the children.

My man.

Sten: It is as she says.

Sten: I am Sten of the Beresaad--the vanguard--of the qunari peoples.

Bro: Qunari?

Sten: If you haven't heard of us, that is your own shortcoming.

Sten: Though it matters little, now. I will die soon enough.

Morrigan: This is a proud and powerful creature, trapped as prey for the darkspawn. If you cannot see a use for him, I suggest releasing him for mercy's sake.

Alistair: Mercy? I wouldn't have expected that from you.

Morrigan: I would also suggest that Alistair take his place in the cage.

Alistair: Yes, that's what I would have expected.

Sten: I suggest you leave me to my fate.

Bro: I could end it for you now, if you prefer.

Sten: My preference is death in battle. Failing that, I will wait for the darkspawn.

Bro: I find myself in need of skilled help.

Sten: No doubt. What help do you seek?

Bro: That's none of your concern.

Sten: You want me to help you, but it's not my concern? Your logic is impeccable.

Bro: Would the revered mother let you free?

Sten: I would not were I her.

Bro: Then stay in there, for all I care.

Sten: I shall.

Leliana: To be left here to starve, or to be taken by the darkspawn... no one deserves that, not even a murderer.

Another party member. At least this one doesn't whine as much.

Crossing the bridge on a way back to the Chantry we run into antoher emo trigger.
IT'S A BITCHING TIME.

Leliana: They say your mother is Flemeth, a witch of the Korcari Wilds.

Morrigan: They also say that washing your feet in winter makes you catch cold in the head, but we all know that is not true. But sometimes they are right and they are right in this.

Leliana: You know the stories about--

Morrigan: Of course. You think me mother would let me go without telling me all the stories of her youth?

Leliana: My mother told me stories too. She was the one who kindled my love of the old tales and legends.

Morrigan: Hmph. my mother's stories curtled my blood and haunted my dreams. No little girl wants to hear about the Wilder men her mother took to her bed, using them till they were spent, then killing them. No little girl wants to be told that this is also expected of her, once she comes of age.

Leliana: I... uh... I see.

Morrigan: No, you don't. You really don't.

And here sits the revered mother.

Revered Mother: Good day, Sister Leliana. I'm surprised to see you're still in Lothering.

Leliana: It is good to see you as well, your Reverence.

Revered Mother: I do not recognize your companion. Greetings. Will you be making a donation to the chantry? Our need has never been greater.

Bro: Tithe? To the chantry? Are you joking?

Revered Mother: A great number of people could be fed and clothed for a fraction of your finery. But you must do as your heart wills.

Revered Mother: What can I do for you, then?

Bro: I want to talk about Sten, the qunari you imprisoned.

Revered Mother: It might have been kinder to execute him, but I leave his fate to the Maker. Why does he interest you?

Bro: I want him freed. I might have a use for him.

Revered Mother: Then his next victims might count you and me as their murderers.

Bro: (Intimidate) I think you should consider that stance. Now.

Morrigan: Now we threaten priests? How fun!

Alistair: Whoa! Whoa! Let's not get out of hand, here!

Revered Mother: What is the meaning of this! You would threaten me with violence?!

Alistair: Your Reverence, please... we are on an important mission. Let us take the qunari off your hands, I beg you!

Revered Mother: I see. And if I not, I am to be assaulted? I sthis what we have come to?

Alistair: No, your Reverence. I will not allow that to happen.

Revered Mother: I have more important matters to concern me. Here... take the key to the creature's cage and begone! Do not return.

Morrigan approves(+4).
Alistair disapproves(-13).

It seems that butthurt Alistair has a soft spot for the old sluts.

Stealing shit is very easy in DA. No repercussions for a failed attempt.

Emo bridge.
IT"S A BITCHING TIME.

Alistair: So... let me get this straight. You were a cloistered sister?

Leliana: You must have been a brother before you became a templar, no?

Alistair: I never actually became a templar. I was recruited into the Grey Wardens before I took my final vows.

Leliana: Do you ever regret leaving the Chantry?

Alistair: No, never. Do you?

Leliana: Yes. You may not believe it, but I found peace there. The kind of peace I've never known.

Alistair: It used to get so quiet at the monastery that I would start screaming until one of the brothers came running. I would tell them that I was just checking. You never know, right?

Leliana: I... no, I never did anything like that. I enjoyed the quiet.

Alistair: Suit yourself. The look on their face was always priceless.

Back to the cage.

Sten: So I am released, am I?

Bro: Why don't you come with me?

Sten: What use is that?

Bro: Anything has to be better than that cage.

Sten: Outside this cage, there is only a bigger cage.

Bro: I'm a Grey Warden. I can use your help.

Sten: Truly! Even my people have heard of your kith. They are legends. But I suppose not all legends are true.

Sten: (Sigh) Very well.

Sten: May we proceed? I am eager to be elsewhere.

He joins the party.

First bandit group Bro was tasked to eliminate.

We gathered enough elfroots to make more health poultices.

Getting the reward.

Elder Miriam: Have any luck finding these herbs in the woods?

Bro: I found them. You could've warned me about the danger.

Elder Miriam: I could've mentionted to wipe your arse after you squat, too. Figured you'd piece that together on your own, though. (Chuckles).

Elder Miriam: This will help many people. You're a good sort, you know?

Bioware, why no option of slitting her throat?

Second group of bandits. Bro charges head on.

And goes down pretty fast

Still, other party members dispose of them.
The landmark tree is nearby. What purpose does it serve?

Let's summon a Dawg and let him piss on it.

It gives him a combat bonus. Yeah, no kidding. Yay for innovation!

Turning camera reveals the last group of bandits.

Mabari, well, dominated them.

Time to collect the reward at chantry board and get new quests.

Chanter Devons: Let Him take notice and shine upon thee, for thou hast done His work this day.

SUDDENLY wolves and bears appear.

Although, they'll disappear soon enough.

Here's the mommy's body.

Bears are pretty weak.

Oh, spiders. We need to get toxin extracts from their dead bodies.

Now Leliana is able to make the requested poison.

Reporting back to the Chantry and Barlin.

Chanter Devons: Let Him take notice and shine upon thee, for thou hast done His work this day.

Chanter Devons: And the stars stood still, the winds did quiet, and all animals of earth and air held their breath.

Chanter Devons: All was silent in prayer and thanks.

Chantry errands were worth the hassle because completing them grants you a decent Oathkeeper sword.

Here's that Barlin dude.

Barlin: Any luck with that posion? Or you here to see my stock?

Bro: I have what you asked for.

Barlin: Splendid! If those beasties come on my land, I hope it teaches them a lesson.

Barlin: Here's enough gold to cover any of your expenses and then some. (Laughs)

Ah, I forgot about Blackstone chest. MOAR glorious letter delivery.

Emo bridge, again.

IT'S A BITCHING TIME.

Leliana: You are such a handsome dog. I think that every time I look at you.

Dog: (Happy bark!)

Leliana: Lady Cecilie--I lived with her after my mother died--had a dog. A small one, bred to fit under the arm and in the lap.

Leliana: What did she name it... oh, yes. Bon-Bon. Oh, Bon-Bon was a terror. He would hide, you know, when he saw you coming...

Leliana:And then he would attack your ankles. Razor-sharp teeth in the ankles... very painful.

Leliana: He attacked me once. Latched onto my leg. I thought it was a diseased rat and kicked. Bon-Bon flew across the room and over the banister.

Leliana: He survived, but he never came near me after that.

The dude you need to conscript spawns at the Chantry.

Patter Gritch: Yes? What can I do for you?

Bro: I have a letter for you from the Blackstone Irregulars.

Patter Gritch: I knew this time would come. I should have listened to my sister. "Sure, sign the paper", she said. "You'll enjoy some coin now, but they'll be back."

Patter Gritch: I guess I'll see you on the front lines.

Did I mention the emo bridge?
IT'S A BITCHING TIME.

Morrigan: You ate my entire bag of herbs, you foolish dog. Do not think I am unaware of where it went.

Dog: (Unhappy whine).

Morrigan: 'Tis your own fault for being so entirely gluttonous. Several of those herbs were posionous. You should be pleased they did not kill you.

Dog: (Coversantional barking)

Morrigan: Do not be ridiculous. I am certainly not going to give you more, even if I did have more to give.

Dog: (Whine!)

Morrigan: You have some nerve, creature. And your breath leaves much to be desired. Off you go.

Dog: (Whine!)

Morrigan: We shall see. I promise nothing.

On a way to the exit from the area you get ambushed by a band of rabble.

Refugee: We done heard what was said. You're a Warden.

Refugee: I don't know if you killed King Cailan, and Maker forgive me, I don't care.

Refugee: But that bounty on your head could feed a lot of hungry bellies.

Refugee: Attack!

Whatever, more dog food.

Near the very exit darkspawn harass a dwarven merchant.

We'll see how grateful he is.

Bodahn Feddic: Mighty timely arrival there, ny friend. I'm much obliged.

Bro: Just how obliged, exactly?

Bodahn Feddic: You want a reward, huh? I suppose that's an entirely reasonable request.

Bodahn Feddic: How does a hundred silvers sound? I was going to use that to fix up the cart, but quite frankly I'll be grateful enough that my son and I come out of this with our heads!

Bro: (Persuade) Yet you have a whole cart full of goods.

Bodahn Feddic: Unsodl goods, I'll point out, though you've a fair point. Here's... two hundred silver. But it's all I have.

Bodahn Feddic: The name's Bodahn Feddic, merchant and entrepreneur. This here is my son, Sandal. Say hello, my boy.

Sandal: Hello.

Bodahn Feddic: Road's beeen mighty dangerous these days. Mind if I ask what brings you out here? Perhaps we're going the same way.

Bro: King's business, I'm afraid.

Bodahn Feddic: Fair enough. Allow me to say thank you again, and bid you farewell. Say goodbye, my boy.

Sandal: Goodbye.

Bodahn Feddic: Now, then. Let's get this mess cleaned up, shall we?

Bro did it!

AT THE CAMP

Moar dragonz, it seems.

Bro awakes from a nightmare.

Alistair: Bad dreams, huh?

Bro: Why are you bothering me? I'm fine.

Alistair: It's just that you were shouting in your sleep. Loud. And not in a good, this-is-private way, either.

Alistair: You see, part of being a Grey Warden is being able to hear the darkspawn. That's what your dream was. Hearing them.

Alistair: The archdemon, it... "talks" to the horde, and we feel it just as they do. That's why we know this is really a Blight.

Bro: Why didn't Duncan just tell everyone that?

Alistair: He did. He said he felt the archdemon's presence. Everyone just assumed he was guessing.

Alistair: It takes a bit, but eventually you can block the dreams out. Some of the older Grey Wardens say they can understand the archdemon a bit, but I sure can't.

Alistair: Anyhow, when I heard you thrashing around, I thought I should tell you. It was scary at first for me, too.

Bro: I'm not frightened.

Alistair: I screamed like a little girl. Duncan said he thought I had someone in my room. Not embarassing at all.

Alistair: Anyhow, you're up now, right? Let's pull up camp and get a move on.

Alistair disapproves(-5).

Need to talk with merchant to finish "Enchantment" quest.

Bodahn Feddic: Ah! It's good to see you, my timely rescuer! Bodahn Feddic at your service once again.

Bodahn Feddic: Now, before you say anything, I do recall that your business is private... but I saw your camp and couldn't help but stop. Is there anywhere safer to sleep? I think not.

Bodahn Feddic: I'm perfectly willing to offer you a fine discount for the inconvenience of our presence. How does that sound? Good? Yes?

Bro: You're free to stay. Just mind yourselves.

Bodahn Feddic: Wonderful! Thank the gentleman won't you, boy?

Sandal: Thank you ser.

Bodahn Feddic: We won't be a bother to you and your companions, I assure you. If you should need enchantments, simply talk to my boy. Otherwise, come speak with me.

Now let's see how exactly the boy if useful.

Sandal: Hello.

Bodahn Feddic: The boy's a bit simple, but he's rather good with enchantments. One of those Tranquil fellows actually called him a... what was it, now? A savant? I had no idea such a thing existed.

Bro: I want some enchanting done.

Sandal: Enchantment!

Not too many options, for sure, but at least it's free.

And a bit of trade with daddy.

Bodahn Feddic: If there's anything I can do for you, please, please tell me.

Bro: Let me see your wares, Bodahn.

Bodahn Feddic: I'm sure you'll be pleased with the goods my boy and I have collected. And with you discount.

Mr DLC (of course a jew) stands nearby.

Levi Dryden: You're a hard man to find!

Levi Dryden: Where are my manners? The name is Levi, Levi Dryden.

Levi Dryden: Did Duncan ever mention me? Levi of the Coins? Levi the Trader?

Bro: Duncan never mentioned you.

Levi Dryden: Really? He never told you of old Levi? We've known each other for years.

Levi Dryden: But here I am carrying on while you have a Blight to stop. Don't want to waste your time.

Levi Dryden: But, you see, Duncan promised that together we'd look into something important for the Wardens. And for me.

Levi Dryden: But poor Duncan... well, no more. A tragedy it is, at that. But I know he would want his work carried on. His pledge fulfilled.

Bro: What promise did Duncan make to you?

Levi Dryden: My family... well, our past is a bit checkered, you see? Nobles look at us with disdain.

Levi Dryden: My great-great-grandmother, Sophia Dryden, was the last Warden-Commander of Ferelden, back when the Wardens were known as freeloaders.

Levi Dryden: So King Arland banished the Wardens and he took House Dryden's land and titles.

Bro: Just tell me what I need to know.

Levi Dryden: Duncan wanted to reclaim the old Grey Warden base, Soldier's Peak. And perhaps we'll uncover evidence to restore my family's honor along the way.

Levi Dryden: Nobody's been to Soldier's Peak since the Grey Wardens were banished. But I found a way.

Levi Dryden: They say it's haunted, and it's certainly dangerous. Will you help me?

Bro: How will reclaiming the Peak help the Wardens?

Levi Dryden: Soldier's Peak has strategic and symbolic importance. Duncan said that would be worth it right there.

Levi Dryden: He also hoped to recover lost Warden history and perhaps a few old relics. No one knows what's up there now.

Bro: Let's go to Soldier's Peak.

Levi Dryden: A thousand blessings upon you, Warden.

Levi Dryden: I'll mark down the location on your map. When you arrive, we'll pick our way through the tunnels together!

To free some inventory space Bro decided to make a few presents: Small Carved Statuette to Alistair, jewellery to Morrigan and a Bronze Symbol of Andraste to Leliana.

For the reference, approval stats were following:

Morrigan +20, Leliana +10, Alistair -18, Sten 0.

======================================================

At last, the boring tutorial part is finished and the world map is available. So I ask almighty Codex: where Bro goes next and why?

 

[Insane Psychic]

Get Shale! Then go smash things up!

 

[thesheeep]

Haha. Nobody likes Alistair :D

 

[Hobbit Lord of Mordor]

Freaking photofuckit couldn't handle the awesomeness of this LP and hit bandwidth limit.

I'll re-upload pics on several different hosting sites after completing Lothering.

What kind of file format were you using?

I had this issue too, and found an alternative host which resolved these problems, let me know and I'll try to find it.

 

[Erebus]

I suppose we could go to Redcliffe and see that Arl dude.

What are the consequences of (dis)approval at this point, if any ?

 

[Brother None]

Bro is slowly becoming my personal hero.

What are the consequences of (dis)approval at this point, if any ?

Bonus to a companion's stat (which stat is specific to the companion), +1 each time at 25%, 50%, 75% and 90%. High approval also opens up romantic path and will see the companions willing to teach you class specializations (Alistair can teach you templar, Leliana bard, etc)

Also, I'd probably also just do Redcliffe.

 

[TNO]

Why on earth did they script all the party banter to occur when you cross the bridge?

 

[Kthan75]

Cool LP.

I'd go to the Circle first.

Does the Codex get to vote on who you romance with? :D

 

[Erebus]

What are the consequences of (dis)approval at this point, if any ?

Bonus to a companion's stat (which stat is specific to the companion), +1 each time at 25%, 50%, 75% and 90%. High approval also opens up romantic path and will see the companions willing to teach you class specializations (Alistair can teach you templar, Leliana bard, etc)

Thanks for the info. Does high disapproval have any consequence during this part of the game ? I'm wondering how much more evil we need to be before Alistair decides he's had enough.

 

[RK47]

He can't leave because he's Carth. And Carth only leaves when you turn completely to the dark side or some shit like that in Kotor

 

[SCO]

Why on earth did they script all the party banter to occur when you cross the bridge?

At least bg had the banter occurring randomly on time triggers not luzly bidges.

FFS.

 

[Brother None]

He can't leave because he's Carth. And Carth only leaves when you turn completely to the dark side or some shit like that in Kotor

This. Alistair leaves or doesn't leave at a set plot point, not dependent on his like/dislike.

I don't think negative approval has any consequence at all. But I might be wrong.

PS: I can't believe how many times I told Carth to piss off, leave me, go away, and he just continues the conversation as if I said something else. That dude's nuts.

 

[janjetina]

Why on earth did they script all the party banter to occur when you cross the bridge?

At least bg had the banter occurring randomly on time triggers not luzly bidges.

FFS.

Actually, it's better done Dragon Age way. Bg and BG 2 NPCs were known for starting conversations in the most inappropriate moments (e.g. during the buffing immediately preceding combat).

 

[SCO]

That's just a implementation detail/bug. I'm reading on other forums that people run over and over that bridge just to hear the dialogs. Thats retarded and so gamey and immersion breaking that ... i don't know - something at least-

 

[Serious_Business]

I forgot on how the evil options in Bioware are lulzy and make no sense. The part where you threaten the priest, that was hilarious.

This man is a conviced murder, he could be dangerous to both you and me, why do you want to release him?
YOU SHOULD RECONSIDER THAT STATEMENT. NOW.
*Bro grabs the priest violently and tosses her on the wall with force*

I never even considered clicking that, it just made no sense... but now I can clearly see that it was the best choice

 

[Gondolin]

Also, for being a supposed order that would do anything in its power to stop the Darkspawn they seem to have few numbers and/or desperate emergence plans when the shit happens...

The original Templars never had enough troops to conquer the Holy Land by themselves. That didn't stop them from doing their best.

 

[Brother None]

The original Templars never had enough troops to conquer the Holy Land by themselves. That didn't stop them from doing their best.

True. But I feel Dragon Age leaves some things underexplained. The Grey Wardens originally turned the tide in one of the Blights by heroically charging in with longbows (brilliant! They'll never expect that!) Duncan explains that they have weakened since, but it's never clear how they were strong enough to turn a battle that was de facto already lost, and why they aren't able to just do whatever they did back then again.

Besides, that battle is just stupid.

 

[Insane Psychic]

And seriously, there were two wardens left, and there hadn't been a blight for 500 years or something like that. Maybe Duncan should've spent some more time looking for more Wardens rather than walk around being all serious.