Romancing Crake, the leader of the rebel group Manumits in The Blood of Dawnwalker, requires players to first gain his trust and then navigate specific dialogue options across several quests. The path to a deeper connection with Crake, whose real name is Marat, begins shortly after the prologue.
Joining the Manumits
Players must complete The Firebrand quest, which leads to Shadows in the Woods. In this mission, Coen encounters Crake, Drogos, and Sara, the core members of the Manumits. Initially, the group will not trust Coen, necessitating an increase in the player character's Infamy level. Upon reaching Infamy level 4, designated as 'Notorious,' a quest step for Where Loyalty Lies will update, allowing Coen to enter the Manumits hideout and progress with the romance storyline.
Developing a Bond
The quest What Hunts the Night presents an opportunity to learn more about Crake. During this mission, when Coen and Crake seek shelter, specific dialogue choices can encourage Crake to open up. Engaging in conversations about Sara or Coen's past trauma, if the Home Sweet Home quest is complete, can foster a connection. Dialogue options such as "Do you want to talk about Sara?" or "Maybe we could talk about them instead" can lead to bonding moments.
The subsequent quest, What Moves the Dead, continues this development. After escaping from crypts, players can choose to "walk him back to the hideout" for the cost of one Time Segment. This interaction reveals Crake's real name, Marat, and offers a chance to tend to his wounds after a battle with dialogue choices like "Let me help."
Unraveling Crake's Past
The quest Distant Shadows is crucial for advancing Crake's romance arc. The objective is to follow a character named Ascar, ensuring stealth to avoid detection by soldiers. If Coen is spotted, the mission can be jeopardized. Players must trail Ascar through the woods and, near the end, can intervene when he is accosted by soldiers, or remain hidden. If Ascar spots Coen, or after the encounter, players can ask him about a person named Marat. Returning to the hideout, honesty when discussing the events with Crake is key. Although he may initially leave, his lieutenant, Drogos, will reveal his location, prompting Coen to follow.
The Climax of the Romance
The quest A Closer Look is the culmination of the romance path and is time-sensitive, requiring completion within the same game cycle. At the designated location, specific dialogue choices are essential. Selecting options like "May I join you then?" followed by "I’m worried about you. What’s wrong?" and "Please, just tell the truth about Ascar," sets the stage. The truth revealed is that Ascar is Crake's father, and their relationship fractured after Crake's father discovered his sexuality.
This revelation leads to Crake kissing Coen, who can then respond by choosing "[Kiss him back]." This mutual gesture solidifies their romantic connection. Further conversation can lead to a deeper understanding, with Coen sharing insights about his own family. The dialogue concludes with Crake discussing his plans to defeat Brencis, leading into his final quest.
Players pursuing additional romantic relationships in The Blood of Dawnwalker can also refer to guides for romancing Anca and Lacra.