Crestwood

Scout Harding greets you at the North Gate Camp in Crestwood, filling you in on a few details about the locale. Apparently there was a flood 10 years ago during the Blight, forming a large lake. When a rift appeared in the middle of the lake, corpses began emerging from the water and attacking the living. Stroud has been tracked to a cave to the east—Harding warns you’ll likely encounter heavy resistance from the undead along the way. After speaking to Harding, talk to the requisition officer to get a new requisition quest. There is a lot of work to be done in Crestwood. How you proceed is up to you, but for starters, seek out Stroud.

Stroud: A Wanted Warden

On the road east of the camp, you encounter two Grey Wardens battling some corpse archers. Help finish off the undead enemies, then initiate a conversation with the lead Grey Warden. He’s grateful for your party’s assistance and reveals that he’s here to find Stroud—apparently Stroud has gone rogue and is wanted by the Wardens for questioning. The Inquisitor is careful not to reveal any details about Stroud during the conversation. But a greater sense of urgency is now apparent—you need to find Stroud before the Wardens do.

Agents of the Inquisition After speaking to the Warden, enter the house along the road to the north. Inside, a young woman, Jana, is enthused about witnessing the Grey Wardens in action—they saved her from those corpse archers. Persuade her not to join the Grey Wardens—if Hawke’s theory is correct, the Wardens have been compromised. If Solas is in your party, he can convince Jana to join the Inquisition instead.

Stroud’s Hideout

Head for Stroud’s cave to the southeast, passing the village of Crestwood and Caer Bronach along the way. There is a heavy undead presence outside the village’s gates. After eliminating the enemies, consider making a quick detour to visit the village’s mayor to start the Still Waters side quest. If you want, you can also liberate Caer Bronach to give the Inquisition access to a keep. Continue east and set up an Inquisition camp at Three Trout Pond before meeting with Stroud.

Hawke is waiting for you outside the cave where Stroud has taken refuge. Speak with Hawke, then enter the cave. Stroud reveals that all of the Grey Wardens are hearing the Calling, giving them the false belief that they’re dying. Wardens who have heard the Calling head to the Deep Roads to meet their fate against the darkspawn. Stroud feels Corypheus is behind this bluff in an attempt to eliminate the Grey Wardens. With the Grey Wardens gone, there will be nobody left to stop the next Blight. Stroud was forced to run when he protested against Warden-Commander Clarel’s plan to perform a blood magic ritual thought to prevent all future Blights. Clarel and the Grey Wardens are gathering near an ancient Tevinter ritual tower in the Western Approach. Stroud wants you to meet him there—perhaps you can find more answers.

Gaining Power

You’ll need to acquire eight more power before you can join Stroud in the Western Approach. Fortunately, there’s plenty to do in Crestwood to obtain the power you need—simply closing a Fade rift earns you two power here. Start by completing the Still Waters quest—it’s easy to do Burdens of Command and Homecoming while doing this main quest. Also, Capturing Caer Bronach nets the Inquisition two power and a keep. When you have at least eight power, return to Skyhold.

Recommended Quests