Unraveling the Mysteries of St Trina: A Deep Dive into Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree DLC Choices

After traversing the perilous challenges of Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, players may find themselves pondering over a peculiar decision at the end of Stone Fissure Coffin. Upon overcoming the formidable Putrescent Knight, adventurers are faced with a strange prompt: "Imbibe nectar" from the silent figure of St Trina or simply "Leave." This choice might seem mysterious, but it carries significant consequences for the game's storyline and character development. This guide will explore the outcomes of this enigmatic choice and whether or not it is worth taking the risk.

The Enigmatic Choice

Upon reaching the silent figure of St Trina, players are prompted to make a critical decision: "Imbibe nectar" or "Leave." This choice doesn't offer immediate clarity, leaving many to wonder about its ramifications. Thiollier, a character you encounter, ominously warns that drinking the nectar could be fatal, adding another layer of mystery. Let's delve into what happens when you choose to imbibe the nectar and what transpires if you decide to pass on this dangerous offer.

The Path to Completion

Choosing to imbibe the nectar kicks off a unique questline surrounding Thiollier and St Trina. Though it comes with the dire warning that consuming the nectar will end your life instantly, it's a crucial step in completing Thiollier's narrative arc. Here's what you need to know:

1. First to Fourth Imbibement: Initially, the nectar indeed proves fatal. After the fourth consumption, you'll hear St Trina's voice saying, "Make Miquella stop... Don't turn the poor thing into a god."
2. Resurrection at the Garden of Deep Purple: Post fourth imbibement, you respawn at the Site of Grace 'Garden of Deep Purple,' where you gain the option to 'Pass on St Trina's words' to Thiollier.
3. Thiollier's Reaction: Thiollier, frustrated by his inability to hear St Trina despite drinking the nectar himself, will initially refuse to believe you.

Further Interaction with St Trina

Once you’ve delivered St Trina's initial message to Thiollier, you have the choice to either 'Try to pass on St Trina's words again' or leave him for the time being. Opting to leave allows you to further interact with St. Trina by imbibing the nectar a fifth and sixth time. These subsequent interactions reveal more about St Trina’s pleas:

1. Fifth Imbibement: "Godhood would be Miquella's prison. A caged divinity... is beyond saving."
2. Sixth Imbibement: "You must neutralize Miquella... Grant him forgiveness."

After these revelations, St Trina's dialogue concludes, and there’s no need to consume more nectar. You can then resume Thiollier's questline by attempting to pass on St Trina's final words, which prompts Thiollier to invade your world. Defeating him is essential for progressing further in his storyline.

What If You Don’t Imbibe the Nectar?

Opting not to drink the nectar offers a starkly contrasting experience. Choosing to "Leave" results in a standstill for Thiollier's questline, effectively halting any progress until you decide to drink the nectar. This inaction means missing out on important lore and character development related to Thiollier and St Trina.

The Outcome

Once you've overcome the challenges, including the fight with Thiollier, there’s nothing more to accomplish at the Stone Fissure Coffin. Venturing forward, you can now focus on other objectives within the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. From improving your stats by discovering all Scadutree Fragment locations to finding Revered Spirit Ash locations, there is much to explore. Alternatively, you might seek out remaining Erdtree bosses or new early weapons to assist your quest.

Conclusion

The decision to imbibe nectar from St. Trina, though seemingly perilous, is an integral part of unfolding the intricate narrative within Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. This choice profoundly impacts Thiollier's quest line and allows you to delve deeper into the game’s lore. While declining the nectar may appear a safe option, it prevents further progression and discovery. For those brave enough to embrace the mortal danger of St Trina's nectar, a richer, more storied adventure awaits.