Hello all, first time poster here. Full disclosure, I haven't wound my way down the rabbit hole of posts here so it is entirely possible my question has been asked previously; If so, I apologize and perhaps someone can just send me the link to it. Now then, meat and potatoes time.

I'm just about to begin the main mission "The Looming Shadow". The game has given me the options to scout both the ridge and the spire previous to the battles beginning. At each location are people I have assisted through out the game (I have made sure to complete every possible side quest I come across prior to completing the main missions to advance the story [I.E., before this battle begins I have no other possible quests in any category beyond the main mission]).

My question is, had I not completed these side missions, would these side characters I have encountered still be here or not? If they would be here, would they still converse with me in a familiar regard or would the dialogue change to reflect the fact that this is now our first encounter?

I know it doesn't really affect my game play, but like you all I have fallen in love with this elegant story and world and simply wish to broaden my Horizon on this matter. If none reply, it is of Zero consequence, but maybe a new Dawn of enlightenment will be bestowed upon me by you the ancients of this most excellent of games. Thank you and may the All Mother bless you.

Edit: Applied proper spacing for ease of reading.