Should You Kill Ygwulf or Let Him Live in Avowed? Answered

In the opening moments of Avowed's main quest, the Envoy suffers a tragic assassination. Solving this murder mystery reveals Ygwulf as the killer. The choice then presents itself: mercy or vengeance. Should you kill Ygwulf?

Understanding Ygwulf's Motives

After investigating with Kai and Marius in Paradis, you'll uncover Ygwulf's identity as your assassin. A member of the Paradisan Rebels, he fiercely resists Aedyr's influence. As the Emperor's Envoy, you are a prime target. Tracking him to his underground hideout requires navigating enemies and platforming challenges; prepare accordingly. Documents within the dungeon reveal Ygwulf's misguided beliefs and subsequent remorse, a sentiment he expresses directly during your confrontation.

The Consequences of Mercy or Surrender

Surrendering Ygwulf to the Inquisitor Lödwyn is the least favorable outcome. This results in a brutal, implied death, yielding fewer rewards than other options. Sparing Ygwulf grants 625 Copper Skeyt and some Adra, a modest reward, but his death is unavoidable later in the story.

Why Killing Ygwulf Is the Best Choice

Given his inevitable demise, choosing to attack Ygwulf in dialogue offers the most advantageous outcome. This triggers a challenging boss fight, valuable practice for later encounters. Defeating him yields the best loot: currency, Adra, and the unique Blackwing armor. This armor provides a significant +30% damage boost from stealth and a 25% movement speed increase while crouching.

Ygwulf's Lasting Impact (Spoiler Warning)

Despite being an early encounter, Ygwulf's fate subtly affects Avowed's ending. Post-game narration and art illustrate the consequences of your choices in the Living Lands. Regardless of your efforts to bring peace, Ygwulf's death radicalizes the Paradisan Rebellion, ensuring their continued resistance even after the credits roll.