Corrupting Delilah: A Comprehensive Guide to Non-Lethal Victory in Dishonored 2

So, you’re looking to neutralize Delilah Copperspoon without resorting to bloodshed? Excellent choice! The non-lethal path offers a richer, more nuanced narrative conclusion in Dishonored 2. Using the Corrupt Rune on Delilah is a crucial part of this process, allowing you to trap her in a state of living oblivion. Here’s how it’s done, step-by-step:

1. The Premise: Before you can even think about applying the Corrupt Rune, you need to be playing as Emily Kaldwin (or Corvo Attano) and have reached the final mission, “Death to the Empress.” You must also be committed to the non-lethal route.

2. The Void and the Real World: After your initial confrontation with Delilah, she’ll retreat into her painted world, “The World As It Should Be“. A wave of her duplicates will stand against you.

3. Heart’s Guidance: Use the Heart object (it talks to you!), and it reveals Delilah’s true identity. You must use the Heart on her multiple times to find out the best approach for taking her down.

4. Neutralize in the Painting: Within the painting, you must neutralize Delilah by knocking her out.

5. The Throne Room: You must have already read a specific note found on the throne. This note unlocks the crafting recipe for the Corrupt Rune.

6. Crafting the Rune: In the Overseer Chapel (located in the southeast corner of the second story of Dunwall Tower), you’ll find the necessary ingredients and a workbench to craft the Corrupt Rune. Listen to the audiograph, read the note, and obtain the needed ingredients.

7. The Moment of Truth: Once you’ve crafted the Corrupt Rune, return to the throne room inside Dunwall Tower.

8. Placing the Rune: Approach the throne and interact with it to install the Corrupt Rune. This is the key step!

9. Return to the Painting: After placing the Rune on the Throne, you will enter The World As It Should Be

10. The Final Step: Interact with the incapacitated Delilah, and she’ll be placed onto the throne in the painting. This completes the non-lethal subjugation of Delilah!

11. Completion: Once you return from the painting to the real world, you will discover that the Corrupt Rune has turned the real Delilah into a stone statue, essentially trapping her soul within her body. The throne is yours once more, and Emily Kaldwin (or Corvo Attano) reclaims their rightful place.

Understanding the Corrupt Rune’s Power

The Corrupt Rune isn’t just a fancy trinket; it’s the culmination of your choices and actions throughout the game. It represents the possibility of redemption and the power of understanding your enemies, even those as seemingly irredeemable as Delilah. This strategy also aligns with the themes explored by the Games Learning Society, highlighting how games can teach us about complex moral dilemmas and the consequences of our actions. Learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens if I kill Delilah?

If you choose the lethal option, you’ll obviously eliminate her permanently. This will result in a high chaos ending, characterized by a darker, grimmer Dunwall and negative consequences for the supporting characters.

Where do I find the ingredients for the Corrupt Rune?

The ingredients are located within the Overseer Chapel. Explore thoroughly, checking every nook and cranny. Pay attention to any audiographs or notes as they might provide clues.

Can I craft the Corrupt Rune if I accidentally killed someone earlier in the game?

Yes, crafting the Corrupt Rune is independent of your overall chaos level. You can still pursue the non-lethal ending even if you had a few slip-ups along the way.

Is it possible to complete Dishonored 2 without killing anyone?

Yes, it is! Achieving a “ghost run” (no detections) and “clean hands” (no kills) requires careful planning, strategic use of your powers, and a whole lot of patience.

What powers are most useful for a non-lethal playthrough?

Blink/Far Reach (for traversal), Sleep Darts (for incapacitating enemies), Bend Time (for avoiding detection), and Domino (to link enemies for synchronized takedowns) are invaluable for a non-lethal approach.

How does chaos level affect the ending?

A low chaos level results in a brighter, more optimistic ending, with Dunwall revitalized and characters flourishing. A high chaos level leads to a darker, more depressing conclusion, with widespread suffering and bleak outcomes for everyone involved.

What’s the difference between Corvo and Emily’s powers?

Corvo retains his classic abilities from the first game, such as Blink, Possession, and Rat Swarm. Emily has unique powers like Far Reach, Domino, and Mesmerize. The choice of character greatly influences your play style and the ways you can approach challenges.

Can I use lethal weapons even if I’m going for a non-lethal run?

Technically, yes, but it’s risky. You need to be extremely careful to only use the sleep darts and chokeholds and avoid accidentally killing anyone.

How does the Heart work?

The Heart reveals the secrets and motivations of characters, including Delilah. It also highlights hidden items and pathways. Use it frequently to gain a tactical advantage.

What’s the significance of the paintings in Dishonored 2?

Paintings are more than just collectibles; they provide insights into the lore and characters’ backstories. Delilah’s obsession with painting is central to her character and her plan to reshape reality.

Does the Corrupt Rune work the same way on Daud in the DLC for Dishonored 1?

No, the Corrupt Rune is specific to Dishonored 2 and Delilah. Daud’s non-lethal ending in the Dishonored 1 DLC involves a different approach.

Why is Delilah so powerful?

Delilah’s power stems from her connection to the Void, a mysterious realm that grants supernatural abilities. She’s also a skilled witch and manipulator, making her a formidable opponent.

What happens if I get detected during the final mission?

Getting detected will make things more challenging, but it doesn’t necessarily ruin your non-lethal run. Just remain stealthy and use your powers to evade or incapacitate enemies without killing them.

Is there a post-game exploration after defeating Delilah?

No, Dishonored 2 doesn’t have a post-game exploration mode. Once you complete the final mission, you can only start a new game or reload an earlier save.

What makes the non-lethal ending so rewarding?

The non-lethal ending demonstrates compassion and the ability to find solutions beyond violence. It also offers a more hopeful and satisfying conclusion, showcasing the potential for redemption and reconciliation even in a world filled with darkness.

By following these steps and understanding the nuances of the game, you can successfully use the Corrupt Rune to neutralize Delilah and achieve a satisfying, non-lethal victory in Dishonored 2. Good luck, and may the Outsider be with you!