What happens if you don’t execute Danse Fallout 4?
The Fallout 4 world is full of difficult decisions, and nowhere is this more evident than in the choice to execute or spare Danse’s life. But what consequences does choosing the latter entail? In this article, we’ll explore the possibilities and shed some light on the potential outcomes of sparring with this key figure in the game.
If the Sole Survivor spares Danse
If the Sole Survivor refuses to execute Danse for being an alleged synth, Elder Maxson will become suspicious of this decision, as outlined in the conversation between Danse and Elder Maxson during the "Blind Betrayal" quest. However, the outcome is the same as if you had executed him: you are promoted to Paladin and take on all of his assets, including his set of power armor. Despite this seemingly neutral decision, there are underlying implications for your relationship with the Brotherhood of Steel, as well as other factions in the game.
- No ill will: Your relationship with the Brotherhood remains unaffected by your choice, with both Elder Maxson and Preston Garvey accepting your promotion to Paladin.
- Paladin status: By not killing Danse, you attain Paladin status within the Brotherhood, unlocking the full spectrum of abilities and powers they have to offer.
- Inheritance of belongings: As Paladin, Danse’s set of X-01 armor, his dwelling, and his personal property are passed to you.
- Possible implications on relationships: Other factions like the Minutemen might view your refusal to kill Danse with suspicion or curiosity, as they continue to watch and monitor the Brotherhood’s activities.
Alternative outcome
An often overlooked alternative path involves killing Danse in his Power Armor suit without completing Blind Betrayal. Although this path appears more treacherous, some players choose this route because it grants Danse an early, merciful "execution," alleviating future tension with the Brotherhood of Steel. In essence, choosing not to fulfill the Blind Betrayal quest yields more benefits without jeopardizing the Brotherhood-PC alliance. Keep in mind, though, your faction relationship remains static since there’s no official acknowledgment from Elder Maxson.
| Actions | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Refusal to execute Danse during Blind Betrayal | Promotion to Paladin, inherits Danse’s belongings (including Power Armor) and properties, unchanged relationship with the Brotherhood and other factions |
| Alternative execution while in Power Armor (skip Blind Betrayal) | Removes future tension and "punishment" in the game; PC doesn’t take responsibility for eliminating Danse (relationship doesn’t improve), faction stability unaffected |
The stronger faction question
Which faction, Brotherhood or Minutemen, reigns supreme in the game? From the Brotherhood’s vantage point, Danse embodies the ideology and commitment expected of Paladin rank. From a combat standpoint, a Paladin (even without completion of Blind Betrayal) excels due to the versatility offered by both X-01 armor and power armor sets like T-51 or Sentinel.
By contrast, the Minutemen embody the will of the Sole Survivor to safeguard and strengthen the settlement communities, promoting peace, freedom, and community through strategic combat planning and cooperative unity. For some, it may ultimately depend on how one aligns with either faction, weighing resource availability, companions, armor sets, or faction quests
In the realm of Fallouts’ immersive universe, decisions regarding life or death hold crucial impact on not only our story progression but the consequences for ourselves, those we’ve worked alongside, and the course of future narratives.
The above responses demonstrate, with great insight and awareness of consequences.