The First Sacrifice is one of the most haunting secondary quests encountered during Act 1 of Dragon Age 2. It introduces Hawke to a series of mysterious disappearances in Kirkwall, foreshadowing darker plotlines that unfold later in the campaign. Understanding how to navigate this investigation allows players to gain valuable rewards while exploring the city's emerging criminal underworld.
Starting the Investigation in Hightown
Players can initiate this quest by examining a missing persons notice on the board located in the Hightown market district. The notice directs Hawke to speak with Lord Ghyslain de Carrac, who is desperately searching for his missing wife, Ninette. Speaking with Ghyslain provides critical context about her sudden disappearance and points the party toward Templar Emeric.
Templar Emeric is located in the Gallows, where he shares his concerns about multiple women vanishing across Kirkwall. He suspects that these incidents are connected to blood magic or dark rituals taking place within the city's shadows. Emeric requests Hawke's assistance in following up on a promising lead located in Lowtown.
Exploring the Lowtown Foundry
Following Emeric's advice leads the party to an abandoned foundry in Lowtown during the night. Upon entering the building, Hawke encounters an unidentified figure who immediately flees the scene. Shortly after, the party is ambushed by a wave of abominations, shades, and a powerful desire demon.
Defeating these aggressive foes requires careful tactical positioning and focusing damage on the desire demon first. Once the area is cleared, searching the floor reveals a macabre set of human remains and Ninette's ring. These grim items confirm the tragic fate of Ghyslain's missing wife and provide the necessary evidence to conclude the search.
Quest Outcomes and Final Rewards
After discovering the evidence, Hawke must return to Templar Emeric in the Gallows to report the findings. Emeric takes note of the disturbing details, realizing that a dangerous serial killer is active within Kirkwall. This interaction officially completes the quest objectives with the Templars.
To collect the remaining reward, Hawke can visit Lord Ghyslain in Hightown to deliver Ninette's ring. Players can choose whether to break the news gently or deliver the harsh truth regarding her death. Completing this quest grants experience points, gold, and crafting schematics such as the Rune of Fire design.
