In The Blood of Dawnwalker, players face a significant decision during 'The Cycle of Love' quest: whether to kill or spare Xanthe, one of Brencis's boyars. This choice, made within the Howling Keep, carries consequences that affect the endgame, particularly the final battle against Brencis.
To reach Xanthe, players must first complete missions that raise her Anger Level, leading to the 'The Cycle of Love' quest. This quest requires infiltration of her lair in Tantari Woods, the Howling Keep. Accessing the keep involves using Xanthe's Lantern, solving a related puzzle, and fending off enemies.
The Consequences of Your Choice
The decision to kill or spare Xanthe does not have immediate visible effects but influences the fight against Brencis. Players are advised to kill Xanthe and drain her blood if they wish for a less challenging final encounter, though this path has further choices.
Killing Xanthe
Killing Xanthe directly leads to her demise, meaning her soldiers will not aid Brencis in the final battle, making him easier to access. However, if the encounter occurs at nighttime, an additional choice arises: to drain Xanthe's blood or simply kill her. Draining her blood is optional but allows for the unlocking of her Vampiric Ability. This process also transports the player and Xanthe to Anachora, where the player can choose to absorb her essence. Doing so results in Xanthe's voice offering commentary during gameplay and providing special attacks during the fight against Brencis. If Xanthe is killed without draining her blood, her soldiers will still retreat, but her trap within Griefberg Castle will still be active during the fight with Brencis.
Sparing Xanthe
Sparing Xanthe leads to her Blood Guards retreating from Brencis's castle, reducing the number of enemies faced in the late game. Additionally, Xanthe offers advice for the fight against Brencis and allows players to bypass an entire puzzle sequence in the castle. This is the only way to skip that particular puzzle.
Weighing the Options
In summary, sparing Xanthe simplifies the final stages of the game by removing her soldiers and a puzzle trap. Conversely, killing her, particularly if her blood is drained at night and her essence absorbed, provides an advantage during the final battle against Brencis through her special attacks. The choice ultimately depends on whether the player prioritizes an easier assault on Brencis's Castle or direct assistance in the final confrontation. While sparing Xanthe offers a smoother path, killing her provides unique combat benefits. The decision to absorb Xanthe's essence is presented as a matter of personal preference, with the caveat of her voice being a constant presence.