The quest To Catch a Thief in Dragon Age 2 serves as a pivotal moment in Act 2, focusing on Isabela and the stolen Qunari relic. Players must navigate personal allegiances, tactical combat, and major narrative decisions that influence the rest of the campaign. Understanding how to trigger this quest and manage its outcomes is essential for maintaining companion loyalty.
Unlocking and Starting the Quest
To access this quest, players must have recruited Isabela in Act 1 and completed the main mission Following the Qun in Act 2. Upon returning to the Hawke Estate, a confrontation between Aveline and Isabela will occur regarding their priorities. Players must choose to assist Isabela first to ensure she remains available for her companion storyline.
Before heading out, ensure Isabela is added to your active party to proceed into Lowtown at night. Navigating through the nighttime streets leads directly to the Lost-End Foundry where hostile forces await. Preparing your party composition beforehand will make the upcoming encounters far more manageable.
Navigating Combat inside the Lost-End Foundry
Upon arriving at the foundry, a battle breaks out against Qunari warriors and Tevinter mages. Isabela temporarily leaves the party during this encounter, forcing your remaining trio to rely on crowd control and status effects. Prioritizing high-threat targets like mages and Stens is critical for surviving the intense skirmish.
After clearing the area, take time to explore the upper level of the foundry for valuable loot. Players can discover an armor upgrade item known as Lambswool Insoles specifically for Isabela. Exiting the building reveals Isabela's letter on a body outside, confirming her departure with the relic.
Key Quest Outcomes and Companion Impact
The resolution of To Catch a Thief heavily depends on Hawke's friendship or rivalry rating with Isabela. If her relationship meter is sufficiently high, she will return at the conclusion of Act 2 during the confrontation with the Arishok. Otherwise, her departure at the end of this quest will mark her permanent exit from your party.
Handing over the relic or protecting Isabela also alters your standing with other companions like Aveline and Merrill. Making deliberate dialogue choices allows players to align with their desired party dynamics. Managing these decisions carefully ensures long-term stability for your adventuring team throughout the game.
