In Avowed, you'll encounter Ilora, a prisoner at Fort Northreach. Deciding whether to free her or leave her impacts your gameplay significantly. This guide explores both choices and their consequences.

Should You Free Ilora?
While role-playing games encourage player choice, freeing Ilora is strongly recommended. This path simplifies Fort Northreach and unlocks a later side quest.
Freeing Ilora: The Benefits
Freeing Ilora provides significant advantages:
- Easier Fort Northreach: Ilora assists in combat, crucial early in the game when your character is weaker. She significantly reduces the difficulty of the area, including the boss fight against Steadman Ralke.
- Simplified "Escape Plan": A later side quest, "Escape Plan," becomes considerably easier if you've saved Ilora. (Details omitted to avoid spoilers).
How to Free Ilora
Ilora reveals the key to her cell is in the Warden's Room. Access this room by climbing crates, jumping to a platform, and breaking through boards in a passageway. The key is near the door. Even if you choose not to free Ilora, use the key to unlock the adjacent cell and obtain the Deerskin Gloves.

Leaving Ilora: The Consequences
Choosing not to free Ilora increases the difficulty of Fort Northreach. "Escape Plan" also becomes more challenging. Ironically, Ilora doesn't remain imprisoned; you'll later fight her, further complicating your escape. However, you'll gain loot from her corpse.
In conclusion, freeing Ilora offers substantial benefits, making your journey through Avowed smoother. While leaving her provides a different, more challenging experience, it's ultimately less advantageous.
Avowed is currently available.