How to Unlock the Reptile Recurve Unique Shortbow in Dragon Age: The Veilguard
Key Takeaways
- The Reptile Recurve Shortbow: This weapon is a must-have for its unique Necrosis effect, which allows for sustained damage over time.
- Explore Docktown Thoroughly: Be prepared to venture through multiple quests and locations to unlock every Candlehop.
- Enjoy the Journey: The Candlehop quest adds a layer of mystery and discovery to Dragon Age: The Veilguard, making it an engaging side adventure worth the effort.
In Dragon Age: The Veilguard, building the perfect character goes beyond simply leveling up; it’s about finding unique weapons that add depth to your gameplay. One such standout weapon is the Reptile Recurve Unique Shortbow, known for its deadly abilities and game-changing stats. Unlike other weapons, you can’t find this bow in a treasure chest or at a merchant. Instead, you’ll need to complete a side quest involving hidden notes called Candlehops scattered throughout Docktown.
This guide will break down every step to help you acquire the Reptile Recurve, covering locations, challenges, and tips to make your journey smoother.
What is the Reptile Recurve Unique Shortbow?
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s get to know this bow a bit better. The Reptile Recurve is a powerful shortbow that applies Necrosis to enemies with every hit. With high physical damage, it’s ideal for end-game builds focused on dealing steady damage and controlling the battlefield. Here are the stats:
- Physical Damage: 385
- Stagger: 146
- Necrosis Stacks: +6 maximum
- Necrosis Damage Reduction: -50%
Sounds tempting, right? Let’s look at what you’ll need to do to add this weapon to your arsenal.
Step 1: Start the Candlehop Quest
To get the Reptile Recurve, you’ll need to locate Candlehops mechanical devices used to deliver messages throughout Docktown. You’ll start hearing about these mysterious items when you enter Minrathous. Rumors around town suggest that an anonymous source has been leaving notes at various Candlehop locations, hinting at a hidden treasure.
These notes are crucial, as they lead to a Timelost Hoards Chest that contains the Reptile Recurve. In total, there are seven Candlehops that you’ll need to find. However, they won’t all appear on your map immediately. Some areas unlock only as you progress through the main storyline.
Step 2: Complete Preliminary Side Quests
Before you can access all Candlehops, you need to complete a few prerequisite quests. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Out of Tune: Completing this quest reveals the first Candlehop locations.
- The Cobbled Swan Case: Additional Candlehops appear after completing this quest.
- Neve Companion Quests: These side quests not only add depth to Neve’s storyline but also unlock additional areas of Docktown.
- A Hidden Hoard & Desperate in Docktown: Complete these side quests to further expand your map access.
It’s essential to know that you don’t need to follow a strict order to collect the Candlehops. If you choose a path that skips defending Minrathous, you can still find all the necessary notes.
Step 3: Candlehop Locations
Each Candlehop is located in a distinct area, and here’s where you’ll find them:
Candlehop #1: Shadow Dragons Sanctum
The first Candlehop can be found in the Shadow Dragons Sanctum near the entrance. This area becomes accessible after completing the first Docktown quest. Look just outside the pawn shop in the main room to spot the Candlehop.
Candlehop #2: Temple of Andraste Courtyard
Travel to the Temple of Andraste in Docktown, where you’ll find another Candlehop in the temple courtyard. The area is near a workbench, but be cautious enemies called the Venatori may appear here depending on the time of day in-game.
Candlehop #3: The Warrens Area
Locating this Candlehop requires a bit more effort. Head to The Warrens and look between two scaffolds near animal cages. There, you’ll find a door. Right outside this door, the Candlehop awaits your discovery.
Candlehop #4: Aula’s Look
This Candlehop is situated at Aula’s Lookout by the entrance to the Catacombs. Cross the docked boat and climb the wooden ledges to your right. The Candlehop will be on a raised platform overlooking the water.
Candlehop #5: Parthenius Main Dock
To reach this Candlehop, head to the Parthenius Main Dock and enter the gated dock building. Use the ship anchored to its right to cross over, ascend the stairs, and find your way inside. Once in, locate the Candlehop on the right. Don’t forget to pull the lever to unlock the gate.
Candlehop #6: The Black Emporium
At some point, you’ll receive an invitation to visit the Black Emporium, where the next Candlehop is located. Find it beside the large bone horn in the main room.
Candlehop #7: Thread Market
The final Candlehop is in the Thread Market, but it only becomes accessible after completing Neve’s companion quests. Once the Venatori barrier disappears, enter the area, and you’ll find the Candlehop inside.
Step 4: Claim Your Reward
After collecting the seventh Candlehop note, head back to the Shadow Dragons Hideout. The Candlehop there will lead you to a secret passage, removing a Venatori barrier to grant you access. Ascend the stairs, and you’ll discover the Timelost Hoard’s Chest containing the Reptile Recurve Unique Shortbow, along with two Elfroots, a Golden Lion item, a Moment of Victory memento, and a Candlehop maker Codex entry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need to follow a specific order to collect the Candlehops?
No, the Candlehops can be collected in any order as they become accessible. However, completing certain side quests first will make it easier to locate them.
Q2: Can I still find the Candlehops if I skip the Minrathous defense?
Yes, you can complete the quest regardless of your choice regarding Minrathous. Skipping it won’t hinder your progress in collecting the Candlehops.
Q3: What other items can I find in the Timelost Hoard’s Chest besides the Reptile Recurve?
In addition to the Reptile Recurve, you’ll receive two Elfroots, a Golden Lion, a Moment of Victory memento, and a Candlehop maker Codex entry.
The Reptile Recurve Unique Shortbow isn’t just a weapon it’s a prize for dedicated explorers willing to dive deep into the lore and challenges of Docktown. Enjoy the journey as you uncover each Candlehop, piecing together a story that leads to one of the most intriguing weapons in Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
