Magistrates Orders (Optional)

Learn how to complete the optional Magistrates Orders quest in Dragon Age II. We'll guide you through Hightown, the Abandoned Ruins, and the Ruined Passage to find the escapee.

Alright, so you're looking to wrap up all those optional quests in Dragon Age II, huh? Smart move! The 'Magistrates Orders' quest is one of those that can pop up a bit later, and it's good to know where to go. You'll want to head to Hightown first.

Keep an eye out near the Chantry there; that's where the quest giver, Magistrate Vanard, usually hangs out. He'll give you the lowdown on an escapee you need to track down. Once you've got the details, you'll need to leave Hightown and make your way to the Abandoned Ruins. It sounds a bit ominous, but don't worry, we'll get through it.

In the Abandoned Ruins, you'll meet up with Elren and Nabil. They'll give you some context about the situation. Now, here's a heads-up: the game's going to present you with an ultimatum later on regarding the fugitive's fate. So, while you can pick your dialogue options freely here, just know that some choices might have consequences down the line. After chatting with them, search the rubble on the ledge – it's a bit of a clue – and then head into the Ruined Passage.

As you push deeper into the Ruined Passage, you'll start running into some trouble. Keep an eye out for Giant Spiders lurking off to the side. Deal with them, and then head east. You'll find some Raiders there, so take them out and then open the chest you find. It's got a 'Mont de Glace Stand' in it. After that, backtrack to where you fought those first Giant Spiders and head north. More spiders are waiting for you, including some Venomous Spiders this time. Loot them to grab the 'Spider’s Silk Gland,' which is a plot item. Don't forget to check the chest in the corner before you move on.

Continue heading north until you come across a pile of bones. From there, go east to a dead end. Be careful here, as there's a master trap right in front of a chest. If you've got the skills, disarm it. As soon as you start messing with the trap or the chest, more Giant Spiders will spawn behind you, so be ready to fight them off. Once they're dealt with, loot the chest – you might get a 'Pewter Pendant of Wolves Howling at the Moon.' Finally, head back to that junction and open the southern door. This leads into a larger room where you'll face a whole bunch of enemies, including an Arcane Horror. Focus on that one first!