In *Avowed*, the 'Fires in the Mine' side quest presents a pivotal choice: whether to support Darle's plan to blow up the mine or to stop him. Each decision carries its own set of rewards, impacting your gameplay and the narrative. Let's delve into the outcomes of each choice to help you decide which path is best for your playthrough.
Should You Stop or Support Darle in Avowed 'Fires in the Mine' Quest?
If you're aiming for the most rewarding outcome in *Avowed* at the end of the 'Fires in the Mine' quest, stopping Darle from blowing up the mine is the optimal choice. While supporting Darle does yield a significant amount of XP, the total package of XP, money, additional loot, and narrative impact you receive for thwarting his plan is far superior.
What You Get for Supporting Darle
By choosing to support Darle and allowing him to execute his explosive plan in *Avowed's* 'Fires in the Mine', you will earn 1026 XP upon completing the mission after speaking with Kada and Seyon. However, this choice comes at the cost of the mining initiative, which was crucial for defending against the Dreamthralls, thus forfeiting any monetary reward. Additionally, attempting to manipulate the truth about the explosion won't change the outcome; it will only further strain the relationship between the Aedyrans and Thirdborn.
Rewards for Stopping & Killing Darle
Opting to stop Darle in *Avowed's* 'Fires in the Mine' side quest yields immediate rewards. You'll earn 212 XP for defeating Darle, followed by an additional 879 XP after debriefing with the mining officials, totaling 1091 XP—65 more than you would get for supporting him. Moreover, Seyon and Kada will reward you with 900 coins for your efforts. Before leaving the mine, you can also loot Darle's corpse to obtain:
- Blackwood Branch (Superb Upgrade Material)
- Wild Mushroom Stew (Prepared Food)
- Beetle Pie (Prepared Food) x2
While the food items are minor, the Blackwood Branch is a valuable addition for upgrading your weapons and armor. From a gameplay perspective, stopping Darle not only provides more XP and coins but also an essential upgrade material. Additionally, maintaining a positive relationship between the Thirdborn and the Aedyrans enhances the narrative experience in *Avowed*.
In conclusion, stopping Darle in the 'Fires in the Mine' quest is the best choice for maximizing your rewards and enhancing your gameplay experience in *Avowed*. For further exploration, consider checking out all 12 Treasure Map locations to find exclusive gear, and if you're focused on leveling up, learn about the max level in *Avowed* to understand the full potential of your character.
