You’ve just rolled into Shatterscarp. Your boots are dusty, your inventory is probably full of junk you don't need, and you’re carrying a heavy piece of paper that could fundamentally shift how the local leadership views you. In the world of Avowed, choices are rarely just "good" or "evil." They're usually just varying shades of "well, that’s gonna be awkward later."
One of the first big forks in the road during the A Path to the Garden main quest involves a decision that feels massive: should you give Temerti the letter?
Honestly, the game frames this like a world-altering diplomatic event. You’ve got Inquisitor Lodwyn’s missive in your pocket—delivered via Captain Aelfyr—and Temerti, the Fleet Master of Thirdborn, is standing there looking at you like you’re the reason her day just got five times worse. It’s tense. It’s dramatic. But does it actually matter as much as the music suggests?
The Temerti Choice: What Actually Happens?
So, here’s the deal. You’ve arrived in Thirdborn to find Yatzli. Temerti is already on edge because the Steel Garrotte (Lodwyn’s bunch) just finished burning down Fior mes Ivèrno. She doesn’t trust you. Why would she? You’re the Envoy, basically a high-profile imperial auditor with a magical connection she doesn't fully understand.
If you decide to give Temerti the letter, you’re basically being a whistleblower. The letter is a demand from Inquisitor Lodwyn: hand over the ruins of Naku Kubel or face the Steel Garrotte’s wrath.
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When you hand it over:
- Trust increases. Temerti appreciates the transparency. It makes her realize you aren't just a puppet for the Inquisitor.
- Intel is shared. She gets a clear look at the Steel Garrotte's strategic goals.
- The dialogue shifts. She’ll be a bit more collaborative as you transition into the next phase of the quest, which involves hunting down Ryngrim.
If you withhold the letter, she’s basically flying blind. She still doesn't trust you, and the conversation feels a lot more like an interrogation than a partnership.
Does it lock you out of endings?
Basically, no. You aren't going to get kicked out of Thirdborn for keeping the letter. You won't suddenly become Lodwyn’s best friend just because you kept her secret. Obsidian, the developers behind Pillars of Eternity, love these "trust puzzles." Giving the letter is just one piece of the puzzle. If you want Temerti to like you, give her the mail. If you’re roleplaying a secretive imperial agent who plays both sides, keep it.
The Real Consequence: Trust vs. Leverage
It’s worth noting that Temerti is a pragmatist. Even if you give her the letter, she can’t give Lodwyn what she wants. She literally doesn't have the power to "hand over" Naku Kubel because she doesn't control it.
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The letter acts as a catalyst for the plot to move toward Ryngrim, the legendary figure living to the east. Whether you show the letter or not, the "to-do" list remains the same. You're still going to be sent out into the Shatterscarp wastes. You’re still going to deal with Xaurip camps and the Dreamscourge.
Some players worry that giving the letter is "siding" with the Steel Garrotte. It’s actually the opposite. By showing Temerti the letter, you’re exposing Lodwyn’s hand. You’re giving the locals a heads-up that a storm is coming. If you want to fight the Steel Garrotte later, giving Temerti the letter is actually the "good guy" move. It builds the foundation for a local alliance.
Making the Decision: A Roleplay Perspective
I've played through this section a couple of times now, and honestly, your background choice changes the "feel" more than the outcome.
- The War Hero: You probably value clear communication and chain of command. Giving the letter feels right.
- The Court Scion: You might see the letter as leverage. Maybe you keep it to see if you can squeeze Lodwyn for something later? (Spoiler: You can't really "trade" it back to her, but the feeling of having a secret is there).
There is also the First Contact with the Enemy side quest that involves Temerti. This quest is a great example of how Temerti views honor and desertion. If you find the soldiers’ badges and find out Private Nauki was a coward, Temerti’s reaction to your honesty there carries more weight for your "reputation" in Thirdborn than the letter does.
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She's a leader who values bluntness. She’s tired. She’s dealing with a city on the brink of collapse. If you play games with her, she’s just going to find you annoying.
The Verdict on the Letter
If you're staring at the dialogue options right now, wondering if you're about to break your save file: take a breath.
Give Temerti the letter if:
- You want the "best" relationship with the people of Thirdborn.
- You want to play as a transparent, honest Envoy.
- You want to see the Steel Garrotte fail.
Keep the letter if:
- You’re roleplaying someone who doesn't trust the local authorities.
- You want to see Temerti struggle a bit more with the "why are you here?" dialogue.
- You just like being a bit of a mystery.
Ultimately, the choice is a flavor one. It flavors your relationship with the region’s leader, but the main dish—the conflict over the Dreamscourge and the fate of the Living Lands—is still going to be served the same way.
Actionable Next Steps
If you’ve made your choice with the letter, here is what you should focus on next to make sure your Shatterscarp run is successful:
- Head East for Ryngrim: Don't linger too long in the market. The real meat of the story is past the Pargrunen ruins.
- Collect the Badges: While you're out there, look for Private Nauki and his squad. Finishing "First Contact with the Enemy" is the best way to actually earn Temerti's respect and some solid XP.
- Check your Gear: Shatterscarp is a step up in difficulty. Ensure your weapons are at least "Exceptional" quality. If you're still using basic steel, the Xaurip Champions in the Highlands are going to give you a very bad time.
- Listen to Yatzli: She’s your primary contact for a reason. Her dialogue after the Temerti encounter gives you the best clues on how to handle the "godly" politics you're about to step into.