Dishonored 2 Rune In Sewer Location Guide
8 August 2026 | 124
Dishonored 2 drops players into the sprawling, multi-layered coastal city of Karnaca, where supernatural powers require finding hidden artifacts known as runes. Among the many collectibles scattered across the missions, the rune tucked away inside the Edge of the World canal system stands out as one of the trickiest to obtain early on. Mastering the mechanics required to bypass the heavy environmental barriers will ensure your supernatural arsenal expands efficiently without wasting valuable time wandering the streets.
Locating the Hidden Canal Grate
Your journey to find this specific artifact begins during the second mission as you navigate toward the Canal Square area. As you explore the lower walkways near the water channels, your Heart item will begin beating rapidly to indicate a nearby collectible. Following the audio cues will lead you directly to a heavily reinforced iron grate blocking a dark, flooded drainage tunnel.
Many players mistake this barrier for a late-game shortcut that requires a specific key or a complex button puzzle to open. In reality, the solution involves manipulating the environment using basic physical interactions rather than special character abilities. Observing the structural weak points around the blocked waterway will reveal how to gain access to the interior chamber.
Breaking Through the Submerged Obstacles
To clear the path, you must look closely at the wooden boards and debris wedged tightly behind the iron bars inside the flooded canal. Using a standard crossbow bolt or pulling out your primary sword allows you to strike the wooden planks directly through the gaps in the grate. Damaging these structural supports will cause the barricade to collapse instantly and allow the rushing water to flow freely.
Once the blockage is completely destroyed, the heavy iron gate will lift or create enough space for your character to safely slip underneath the surface. Crouching down or diving directly into the shallow water allows Corvo or Emily to navigate into the dark drainage system. Ensuring you have full health before entering is recommended to counter any unexpected environmental hazards lurking inside the tight space.
Securing the Void Artifact
Inside the dank sewer tunnel, you will find the glowing rune resting quietly on the floor amidst the washed-up debris. Pressing the interaction prompt allows you to claim the item and immediately add it to your active upgrade inventory. This valuable asset can then be spent within the character menu to unlock essential mobility skills like Blink or Far Reach.
After securing the prize, players should carefully scan the surrounding walls and floor for additional minor loot like coins or raw whalebone. Navigating back out the way you entered brings you safely back to the main streets of Karnaca to continue your primary objective. This simple yet easily missed puzzle highlights how closely you must examine the environments in Dishonored 2 to achieve full completion.