The Enigmatic Gift of Morrigan: Unveiling Her Hidden Intentions
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What did Morrigan leave? This seemingly simple question has plagued Dragon Age fans for years. At the conclusion of Dragon Age: Origins – Witch Hunt, just before stepping through the Eluvian, Morrigan mentions she has left behind the Dalish book and an “interesting gift” for the Warden. This gift is neither the robes nor the bow found in the camp – those are simply reward items. The truth is, the game never explicitly reveals the nature of this mysterious gift. It is left intentionally ambiguous, sparking endless fan theories and discussions. While its exact nature remains a tantalizing secret, we can explore the context, Morrigan’s character, and subsequent events in the series to draw some educated conclusions. The lack of a clear answer is a deliberate choice, ensuring that the player continues to contemplate Morrigan’s motives and the intricate web of their relationship.
Morrigan’s Departure and Ambiguity
The ambiguity surrounding the gift reflects Morrigan’s complex personality. She is a cunning and independent witch, raised in the wilds and distrustful of most. She operates on her own terms, often keeping her true intentions shrouded in secrecy. Her departure through the Eluvian, regardless of whether the Warden joins her, is a significant moment. It is a culmination of their relationship, marked by both intimacy and suspicion. The “interesting gift,” therefore, becomes a representation of this duality. It could be something genuinely helpful, a means of assisting the Warden in the future, or a calculated move with ulterior motives. Perhaps it’s a symbolic object, a reminder of their time together, or something related to her own past and the lore surrounding Flemeth.
The fact that it isn’t visually presented further reinforces the mystery. Instead of a tangible item, it is the idea of the gift that becomes significant. It forces the player to reflect on their interactions with Morrigan, to question her motivations, and to understand her unique perspective. This intentional lack of closure adds to the enduring appeal of Dragon Age and the depth of its characters.
Interpretations and Fan Theories
Many fans believe the gift is something connected to the Old Gods or the Eluvian itself. Given Morrigan’s intentions regarding the Dark Ritual and her ultimate goals, it wouldn’t be surprising if the gift related to these matters. It’s possible the gift was some form of knowledge, a magical item or even an encoded message that could only be understood later. Some theorize it might even be related to Kieran, her child. The fact that the Warden, during Dragon Age Inquisition, goes west seeking a cure for the Taint, aligns with the notion that the gift may contain information that directs them on that path. Whatever it may be, it seems to serve as a lingering echo of their relationship and a subtle nudge towards future events.
The Significance of the Unseen
Ultimately, the most important aspect of Morrigan’s unseen gift lies in its purpose within the narrative. It demonstrates the unreliable nature of her character. We can never be sure what she truly feels or what her long-term goals are, and this gift perfectly embodies that uncertainty. The ambiguity is not a flaw in the story; it is a deliberate choice that enhances the overall experience and adds layers to Morrigan’s complexity. By leaving the nature of the gift to the player’s imagination, BioWare allows everyone to interpret its meaning within their personal understanding of the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Morrigan always leave the party?
Morrigan can leave the party due to low approval before the final battle. However, even if she leaves earlier, she will reappear to offer the Dark Ritual.
2. What happens if you tell Morrigan to leave?
If you dismiss Morrigan after leaving the Kocari Wilds, she will return right before the final battle to offer the Dark Ritual. If you refuse, she leaves permanently.
3. Why did the Warden leave Morrigan after the Eluvian?
If the Warden goes through the Eluvian with Morrigan, he eventually leaves to find a cure for the Calling. This is after helping her raise their child, Kieran, for a time.
4. Can the Warden have a child with Morrigan?
Yes, if you romance Morrigan and refuse the Dark Ritual, you can still have a child with her.
5. Is Morrigan truly Flemeth’s daughter?
Yes, Morrigan is Flemeth’s daughter, raised in the Kocari Wilds by her.
6. How is the Old God Baby (OGB) conceived?
The OGB is conceived if either you, Alistair, or Loghain performs the Dark Ritual with Morrigan. Romancing her and then refusing the ritual leads to a regular human child.
7. What happens if Morrigan drinks from the Well of Sorrows?
Drinking from the Well of Sorrows binds Morrigan to Mythal (Flemeth). If she does, she transforms into a dragon in the final battle if you choose to face her.
8. Is Morrigan a good or bad character?
Morrigan is a complex character. She is often a helpful ally but can also act in questionable ways. She is independent, clever, and generally distrustful.
9. What are the consequences of sleeping with Morrigan?
Sleeping with Morrigan does not cause the Warden’s death. This is only tied to the Dark Ritual and who performs it.
10. What happens if Morrigan doesn’t have a child and the Inquisitor uses the Well of Sorrows?
If Morrigan has no child and didn’t drink from the Well, then she is not bound to Flemeth. This removes the threat of her soul being taken and also explains why she isn’t possessed by the end of DAI.
11. How do you romance Morrigan?
To romance Morrigan, respond to her favorably in conversations, give her gifts like the necklace from Lothering and from Bodahn, and kiss her if desired.
12. Why does Morrigan have yellow eyes?
Morrigan’s yellow eyes likely denote a genetic connection to Flemeth and her sister Yavana, who share that feature. It’s not confirmed why Kieran doesn’t share this trait.
13. Why does Morrigan refuse to go to the Warden’s tent later in the game?
Morrigan refuses to sleep with the Warden later because she has developed feelings for them and now considers emotional bonds a weakness.
14. Why does Solas not want the Inquisitor to drink from the Well?
Solas doesn’t want the Inquisitor to drink from the Well of Sorrows either because he cares about them or because the Well can reveal knowledge he doesn’t want them to have.
15. Why did Morrigan want the baby?
Morrigan wants the baby as she believes it will possess the Old God’s soul, freed from the darkspawn taint, and she claims this was the reason Flemeth rescued the Grey Wardens. She also implies this is why she had to accompany the Warden.