In The Blood of Dawnwalker, players can pursue romantic relationships with several characters, including Crake, the leader of the rebel group known as the Manumits. Successfully romancing Crake involves completing a series of quests, making specific dialogue choices, and reciprocating his advances. Players must be mindful of the game's day/night cycle and Coen's "bloodlust" to avoid accidentally harming Crake during certain night-specific quests.
Initiating Crake's Questline
The journey to romance Crake begins with "The Firebrand" quest, which can be initiated by visiting Vlad's hut in Laslea Glen shortly after the prologue. This quest introduces the Manumits and involves interacting with Mert the Miller, a smuggler imprisoned for his activities. Speaking with Mert, even if you choose not to immediately rescue him, will lead you to Crake.
Earning Crake's Trust
Following "The Firebrand," the "Shadows in the Woods" quest will lead to a meeting with Crake and his close associates, Drogos and Sara. During this encounter, Crake will initially be distrustful, holding a knife to Coen's throat as a test of worthiness. To gain his trust, players must increase their Infamy level to "Notorious" (Level 4). This can be achieved by completing quests for Brencis' Boyars, such as those involving taking down transports or upsetting pillories. Dispatching two Boyars, like Ambrus and Bakir, is usually sufficient to reach the required Infamy.
Deepening the Connection
Once sufficient notoriety is gained, "What Hunts The Night" allows access to the Manumit hideout to speak with Crake. This quest involves investigating the death of one of his scouts and culminates in a difficult fight against the Beast of St. Teotim's. Following the battle, a private moment in a hideout provides an opportunity to discuss feelings. It is advisable to be kind and empathetic during conversations, choosing dialogue options that express understanding, particularly if the player has also experienced loss.
"What Moves The Dead" involves searching for crucial notes within a crypt. This quest features significant combat and a near-death experience for Crake. Afterward, players can offer to help Crake with his injuries, choosing dialogue like "Let me help" and "Sure" when prompted to patch him up, which reveals his torso. Learning that Crake's true name is Marat is also part of this quest.
Navigating Complications
The "Distant Shadows" quest, though potentially seeming optional, is crucial for the romance. It requires discreetly following a man named Ascar. The quest involves stealthily tracking Ascar through the woods and observing his encounter with guards. Regardless of whether Coen intervenes or remains hidden, the subsequent conversation with Ascar reveals his estranged relationship with Marat. Upon returning to the hideout, Crake will be upset. Players should choose to speak with him, indicating a willingness to talk.
The Climax of the Romance
"A Closer Look," a time-sensitive quest, requires meeting Crake outside Farrier's Gate. During this encounter, Crake practices swordsmanship, and players can join him. He will reveal that Ascar is his father and express concern about Coen's judgment. Responding with reassurance, such as "Nothing you can say can change the way I see you," is vital.
This leads to a pivotal moment where Crake attempts to kiss Coen. Players must choose to reciprocate the kiss to advance the romance. Following this intimate moment, Crake prioritizes dealing with Brencis, though the narrative suggests further romantic encounters will occur later.
Players should also be aware that some of Crake's quests are night-specific. During these, it's important to manage Coen's "bloodlust" to avoid harming Crake. Sticking to daytime activities when possible, or ensuring Coen's health is maintained and Voracious Bites are used on non-essential targets, can prevent accidental setbacks.