Set in the vast and richly detailed world of ancient Egypt, Assassin’s Creed Origins continues to captivate players with its blend of historical storytelling and open-world exploration. Among the many side quests that enrich the experience is A Motherless Child, a touching and emotionally resonant mission that highlights the human side of the game’s sprawling narrative. This quest not only deepens our understanding of the setting and characters but also provides insight into the struggles of ordinary people during a time of political unrest and divine confusion. In this guide, we’ll explore every aspect of the A Motherless Child quest, from how to start it to the best way to complete it, while appreciating its thematic significance within the world of AC Origins.
Overview of A Motherless Child Quest
Where and How to Start the Quest
A Motherless Child is a side quest available in the Faiyum region, specifically in the town of Euhemeria. Players will typically encounter this quest during the mid-to-late stages of the game, though it can be tackled earlier depending on your exploration habits. The recommended level for this quest is around 35, so make sure Bayek is sufficiently prepared to face high-level enemies.
To begin the quest, look for a distressed young boy named Kleta near the marketplace. As you approach, a cutscene is triggered where the boy explains that his mother has gone missing. The emotional weight of the boy’s situation immediately sets the tone for the rest of the quest.
Quest Objectives and Progression
After accepting the quest, your journal will update with the following objectives:
- Talk to Kleta and learn about his missing mother
- Investigate the house for clues
- Follow the trail using Senu
- Rescue the mother from the bandit hideout
- Return the mother safely to Kleta
The quest is relatively linear but offers a mix of stealth, combat, and exploration, staying true to the core gameplay mechanics of Assassin’s Creed Origins. Using your eagle companion, Senu, is crucial in tracking down enemies and locating the bandit camp.
Detailed Walkthrough
Investigating the House
After speaking with Kleta, you’re directed to his home where the disappearance took place. Inside the house, there are several objects to inspect broken furniture, a dropped scarf, and spilled water. These environmental clues provide hints that the woman may have been taken by force. The clues also give subtle narrative details, suggesting that the family lived in poverty and that the mother was a hard-working individual doing her best to raise her son alone.
Using Senu to Find the Trail
Once you’ve gathered all the clues, activate Senu and scan the surrounding area. You’ll need to follow a trail that leads south of the town into the desert. Eventually, you’ll spot a small bandit encampment tucked into a rock formation. Use Senu to mark all enemies and identify the best points of entry.
Infiltrating the Bandit Camp
The camp is heavily guarded, so a stealthy approach is advisable. Utilize cover, tall grass, and silent assassinations to thin out the enemy numbers. If you prefer a direct assault, make sure to use upgraded weapons and have plenty of healing tools available. Inside the camp, you’ll find the mother imprisoned in a wooden cage. Eliminate all threats before unlocking the cage to avoid being interrupted during the rescue.
Returning Safely to Town
Once freed, the mother will follow Bayek. Escort her back to Euhemeria while remaining vigilant. Occasionally, random enemies may attempt to ambush you along the road, so it’s wise to stay alert. When you finally return her to Kleta, a heartfelt reunion cutscene plays out, giving emotional closure to the quest.
Rewards and Experience
What You Receive for Completing the Quest
Upon completing A Motherless Child, players receive:
- A moderate amount of XP (ideal for mid-game leveling)
- A random gear drop (usually a mid-tier weapon or shield)
- Improved reputation in the Faiyum region
Though the tangible rewards are modest, the emotional and narrative payoff is what makes this quest especially memorable. It serves as a reminder that even small stories within the world of Assassin’s Creed Origins have weight and meaning.
Themes and Symbolism
Family and Survival
One of the strongest themes in A Motherless Child is the bond between parent and child. Bayek himself is a father who experienced loss, making this quest especially poignant from a role-playing perspective. His willingness to help Kleta shows his empathy and reinforces the overarching theme of personal justice that runs throughout the game.
Justice and Responsibility
The quest also emphasizes justice on a smaller scale. While Bayek is often dealing with large political conspiracies and ancient orders, quests like this one show that he still takes time to help the helpless. It’s a commentary on the idea that justice isn’t only about fighting powerful enemies it’s about righting wrongs wherever they occur.
Tips for Completing the Quest Efficiently
- Level Up First: Make sure Bayek is at least level 3335 to handle enemies with ease.
- Use Stealth Tactics: Silent takedowns and bow assassinations work best in the bandit camp.
- Scout Thoroughly with Senu: Marking enemies can prevent being overwhelmed during infiltration.
- Stock Up on Tools: Make sure you carry enough sleep darts, firebombs, or smoke screens for quick escapes.
Why This Quest Stands Out
A Human Touch in a Grand Story
Unlike some of the more elaborate or mythical quests in Assassin’s Creed Origins, A Motherless Child feels deeply human. It may not involve gods or ancient relics, but its emotional core and relatable characters make it one of the standout side quests in the game.
Strong Narrative Integration
Even though it’s a side quest, this mission integrates well with the overall tone and themes of AC Origins. It showcases the designers’ attention to detail in building a world that feels alive and filled with individual stories. Bayek’s personal involvement brings added depth to both his character and the broader narrative arc.
A Motherless Child in Assassin’s Creed Origins may not feature legendary artifacts or epic battles, but it holds a quiet power in its storytelling and emotional impact. It’s a reminder of the human cost behind political turmoil, and a tribute to the quiet resilience of everyday people. For players looking to explore every layer of this beautiful game, this quest is an essential experience that brings heart and meaning to Bayek’s journey. As you ride away from Euhemeria after completing the mission, the heartfelt reunion you just witnessed may stay with you longer than any reward or experience point ever could.