Family Matter - p. 1 Dragon Age II Guide

Last update: 11 May 2016

The quest giver: Varric [Lowtown - At The Hanged Man]

Step 1: Go to the Bartrand hideout

You can start this quest only after completing the companion quest - An Update, that's after you've learn that Bartrand likely returned to Kirkwall. Go to the [Hightown] location. Time of day doesn't matter because it is possible to explore the estate (M3, 19)(M4, 13) independently of if it is a day or night. Being in the Estates district search for a door leading to the [Hightown - Bartrand's Estate] #1 and listen to a short conversation with Varric (he must accompany you during this quest of course) #2.

Step 2: Find Bartrand - Varric's version

You should be surprised now, because you'll be in control over Varric only #1 (M56, 1). You're participating in his version of events, and the battle with hostile guards will start in the main estate's hall #2.

During all battles fought here do not bother with checking Varric's abilities or his health bar, because he is definitely stronger that enemies. I suggest staying near the starting point and eliminating all enemies one by one #1. I recommend particularly aiming at groups of opponents, using for example explosive arrows in order to kill them #2.

If it is possible, do not let enemies approach Varric too often #1. The dwarf could defend himself in such a situation, but he is far less effective with melee fight. Guards will appear not only at the top but also in two side passages #2, so keep looking around during the battle.

After winning the fight you'll see a funny cut-scene showing Bartrand being captured #1. A game stops in this moment and a woman questioning Varric #2 will demand a real version of events.

Step 3: Find Bartrand - true version

This time you start in a small room in the estate #1 (M56, 2) which is not occupied by enemy forces. Head to the west room, where you'll have to fight a group of crazy guards #2. There are only four of them so it should be an easy victory.

Continue west. In a corner room you'll meet other crazy guards, led by crazy commander #1. He should die first so he won't be able to support his men. After winning the battle head towards the northern door #2.

There are more difficult fights in a next room. Watch out for traps set on the floor #1. Try do disarm them first and then start the fight. It is also advised to kill the commander first, but consider also quick elimination of archers standing behind barricades #2.

Be very careful because enemy reinforcement may run into from the northern room #1 in a later phase of the battle. Immediately deal with them and head north (that's because the door to the main hall are closed). Now you should watch out, because there is a gas trap #2 in the eastern room (you won't be probably able to disarm it).

The best solution now is to retreat to the previous room after triggering the trap, especially that new guards will appear running from the northern rooms #1. Kill them one by one #2, dealing with archers first. Fortunately they are not led by a commander.

You can now start exploring northern and eastern rooms or use the southern door leading to the main hall #1 (M56, 3). Be careful, because there is a trigger trap with spikes downstairs #2. If you're not able to disarm it then retreat to the previous room after you've seen enemies.

During the next battle you have to deal with two crazy commanders #1, but if you are careful, you won't have to fight them both at once. I do not advise to try to go upstairs, because there are many traps set on the stairs #2. You should go there (M56, 4) only after winning the battle.

Once you get upstairs you'll see a conversation scene #1. One of the Bartrand's dwarves will tell you that Varric's brother lost his mind. I recommend now exploring two rooms on the floor (the northern and southern one) and after that clicking on the door leading to the place where Bartrand hides #2 (M56, 5).