The playable character is a dwarven commoner, or a human, or elf visiting Orzammar, looking for work. A Dwarven Noble from one of the lesser Houses has obtained the location of an artifact valuable to one of the more influential houses. Not wanting to attract attention but wanting to confirm the artifact's location, he is looking for some discrete outside help before risking his house's reputation. After hiring the player and enlisting the help of a surprisingly deadly local drunkard, the party set off for the Deep Roads.

After arriving at the Ruined Thaig , the nobleman and his escort wait at the deep roads entrance until you locate Aeducan 's relic within the tomb. Once you locate the tomb and defeat the Golem guarding it, the dwarf nobleman will enter, revealing himself as Prince Bhelen Aeducan . After commenting on how he will have to make sure to leave some clues behind to guide his sibling into solving his puzzle, he will attack you. Once you best him he will offer the opportunity to come to a more peaceful arrangement. You can accept and Bhelen will stay true to his word and permit you to leave for the surface without incident. Alternatively you can refuse him and Bhelen will tell you that one should always have a back up plan, at which point Orson will stab you in the back, killing you.