Dragon Age 2 Wayward Son Quest Walkthrough And Decision Outcomes
In Dragon Age 2, the Wayward Son quest stands out as an early pivotal storyline during Act 1 that highlights the growing tensions between mages and Templars. Players are tasked by Arianni to track down her missing apostate son, Feynriel, before the Kirkwall Templars or slave traders capture him. Completing this quest efficiently requires following key investigative steps while deciding the young mage's ultimate fate.
Starting the Quest and Gathering Clues
The mission begins when Hawke speaks with Arianni in the Kirkwall Alienage to accept the task. You are directed to investigate several leads around Kirkwall, including speaking with Templar Thrask or the guardsmen in the Gallows Courtyard. Tracking information through conversations in Lowtown and Darktown eventually reveals that slave traders have taken Feynriel into custody.
Confronting the Slavers at the Caverns
Your search culminates at the Slaver Caverns along the Wounded Coast where the kidnappers hold Feynriel. Preparing your party for combat against enemy mages, archers, and front-line slavers ensures a smooth rescue operation. Having Varric in your party allows players to resolve initial standoff dialogues cleanly before rescuing the young mage.
Feynriel's Choice and Companion Approval
Once rescued, Hawke faces a critical decision regarding where Feynriel should be sent to master his dangerous magic. You can convince him to join the Circle of Magi, which pleases Templar supporters like Aveline and Fenris while frustrating mages like Anders. Alternatively, sending him to live safely with the Dalish Elves earns approval from pro-mage companions and impacts future quest opportunities in Act 2.
Finalizing the Quest and Long-Term Impact
After deciding his fate, return to Arianni in the Alienage to complete the questline and claim your reward. Choosing the Dalish path opens the follow-up quest Night Terrors later in the game, where Feynriel's Dreamer abilities become central to the plot. Understanding these consequences allows players to tailor their story choices to align with their preferred companion relationships and world state.