Players delving deep within the realms of Avowed are discovering rich treasures hidden throughout the game's expansive world. Among the side quests are the sought-after treasure maps which lead on thrilling explorations, one of the most notable being titled "Treasure Map - My Loyal Shield." This side quest, located within the Galawain's Tusks area, demands savvy navigation and puzzle-solving skills. Successfully completing this quest rewards players with Time's Tarnish, a unique shield of Superb rarity.
To kick off the “My Loyal Shield” quest, players must venture to the Galawain's Tusks region, the game’s fourth territory. The adventure begins at the Southern Warden Tower, which lies directly north of the region's starting point. Once players reach the tower, they need to locate Stockkeeper Eberk, who is usually engaged in conversation but will take his position outside the tower entrance once his dialogue concludes. Intriguingly, Eberk sells the map at a steep price of 5,220 Skeyt, making it more costly than most treasure maps.
Upon obtaining the treasure map, players will notice its imagery hints at the location’s landmarks to solve the quest. It’s focused on finding a specific Godless tower, but players often find themselves lost among several ancient ruins within the region. Fortunately, the solution lies close to the Southern Warden Tower, as players should aim northwest toward the Twinedwood area. Here, the map depicts the significant Warden pyramid construction, leading to the treasure’s whereabouts.
For successful navigation, players should follow the small beige circle shown just south of the Outcast Tower Camp on the map. This area is particularly tricky because there is only a slim pathway between the rock formations. Upon reaching the path, players must climb the series of ledges awaiting them. After reaching the top, players need to look to the right for a domed structure located on the hill. Descending inside reveals the secret chamber where they will be able to interact with the switch connected by cable to the desk within the chamber.
Once players trip the switch, they need to follow the cable outside toward the open door. Diving inside the hidden chamber, they will spot the treasure chest containing the prized Time's Tarnish +2. A quick look at its attributes reveals desirable stats: it possesses 84 Block Efficiency, 340 Parry Efficiency, and 45 Elemental Resistance. The shield even provides passive support with its special traits, such as Timeless Aegis, which grants players a 20% chance to refill 20 stamina when blocking hits.
Equally compelling is another treasure map quest, dubbed "The Blade That Hungers." This quest is renowned for its difficulty, thanks to vague clues and tricky visual designs. Recovering this treasure is worthwhile due to the power it provides players. Those interested can buy the map from Bulti, stationed on the upper levels of Solace Keep. Players should note to bring Marius along, as he is required to enter the Keep due to his role as the Warden at the gate.
The clues within "The Blade That Hungers" are notoriously misleading. The treasure map paints perspective from southwest toward the Ash Forest outpost, but players must venture northeast through tunnels and across the mountains. The stone arch acts as the linchpin; players will need to observe closely, allowing the entrance to the hidden treasure to reveal itself once they are swarmed by spiders at the right moment.
The Umbral Needle, the reward for this treasure hunt, is defined by its formidable stats, boasting 98 physical damage and 80 stun, alongside notable enchantments like Fampyr’s Bite, which restores 2% of damage dealt as health. This significant lifeline is valuable, especially considering the perils of Galawin's Tusk. Likewise, Greater Opening Strike gives players 15% extra damage against full-health enemies, making it a strategic advantage during combat.
For adventurers tackling treasures across the Galawain's Tusks, the quests associated with "My Loyal Shield" and "The Blade That Hungers" not only provide tantalizing rewards but also develop gameplay by encouraging exploration and clever reasoning.