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

In Avowed's opening moments, the Envoy is tragically assassinated. Unraveling the mystery reveals Ygwulf, a Paradisan Rebel, as the culprit. The player then faces a crucial choice: mercy or vengeance. This guide explores the consequences of each decision.

Understanding Ygwulf's Motives

After investigating with Kai and Marius, the Envoy discovers Ygwulf's identity. A member of the Paradisan Rebels, he targeted the Envoy, a representative of the Aedyr emperor, due to the rebels' fierce opposition to Aedyr's influence. The ensuing confrontation occurs in an underground hideout, requiring combat and platforming skills. Optional documents reveal Ygwulf's remorse and misguided belief that the Gods ordained his actions. Regardless of whether these documents are found, Ygwulf expresses regret during the final encounter.

Consequences of Sparing Ygwulf

Surrendering to the Inquisitor Lödwyn is the least favorable outcome, resulting in a gruesome death for Ygwulf. This choice yields inferior rewards compared to sparing him or killing him. Choosing mercy earns the Envoy 625 Copper Skeyt and some Adra. However, Ygwulf's death is inevitable, occurring later in the game's narrative.

Why Killing Ygwulf Might Be Best

Given Ygwulf's predetermined demise, engaging him in combat offers the most advantageous outcome. The boss fight provides valuable combat experience. More importantly, defeating Ygwulf yields the best loot: currency, Adra, and the unique Blackwing armor. This armor significantly boosts stealth damage (+30%) and movement speed while crouching (+25%).

Ygwulf's Lasting Impact (Spoiler Warning)

Despite being an early-game encounter, Ygwulf's fate subtly influences Avowed's ending. Regardless of the player's efforts to bring peace to the Living Lands, Ygwulf's death radicalizes the Paradisan Rebellion, ensuring their continued violent resistance even after the game's conclusion. This is depicted in post-credit art and narration.