Complete Guide to Starfield Shattered Space: Finding Vaeric and Making the Best Choice

When your son goes missing, you may hire a stranger to locate him – and request them to eliminate him while they’re at it. This dark scenario unfolds in Starfield’s *Conflict of Conviction* quest.

House Veth’aal is struggling similarly to House Ka’ric. Like in *The Duel*, this family grapples with their obligations to both faith and kin. Viktor, the father of Vaeric and the house’s Elder, wishes to execute his deserter son, while the rest of the family believes he’s taking it too far.

And who’s more suitable to navigate this family turmoil than you – a complete newcomer who’s recently joined the Va’ruun.

Where is Vaeric in Conflict of Conviction

Vaeric is concealed in a place known as Apostate’s Refuge. Before you can find him, you’ll need to gather intel about his whereabouts at Herald’s Rest and use a tracker to pursue him.

Gathering Information about Vaeric’s Location

Tane speaking with character, Starfield Shattered Space — Image Source: dexerto/Bethesda

Sometimes, intoxicated tongues spill secrets.

At Herald’s Rest, talk to any of the NPCs with a light-blue marker. You can engage them in conversation or persuade them to share information about Vaeric. Ultimately, they’ll direct you to Tane, a mysterious regular who will arrive shortly. Wait a few moments and he’ll sit down at the counter.

Once you speak with Tane, you can either intimidate him or offer 1000 Credits to learn where Vaeric is hiding. Regardless of your choice, he will decide to accompany you, effectively replacing your current companion.

To the Highlands

Vaeric's Camp location, Starfield Shattered Space

Proceed to the location marked on your map, which is the Highlands. Once you’re close, Tane’s tracker will indicate your proximity to the destination. Keep an eye on the top right corner of your screen to see if you’re getting closer or moving away.

Alternatively, just follow the location shown on the map above: the Abandoned camp.

All Abandoned Camp Clues

You’ve located Vaeric’s tracker, but the site appears to be deserted. It’s time to investigate and find some clues:

Search for a dead, glowing creature on the ground.
Look for a tracking device next to a bed.
Examine Vaeric’s Camp Log entry on a table.
Check for bloodstains on the floor, near the tent.
Identify footprints at the digging site.

Once you interact with all five clues, a swarm of Vortex Horror enemies will appear. Ensure you defeat them and then speak with Tane. Follow the map markers until you reach the farm location.

All Apostate’s Refuge Clues

Speak with Irina, located northwest of the camp. After some inquiry, she’ll direct you northward to Apostate’s Refuge.

At Apostate’s Refuge, head to the first-floor room on the left. Interact with the computer and read the logs. Then, climb the stairs and find a log on a table.

Exit outside, converse with Tane, and Vaeric will make an appearance. At this stage, you must make a crucial decision in *Conflict of Conviction*.

Should You Kill or Spare Vaeric?

Gunfight against Vaeric, Shattered Space — Image Source: dexerto/Bethesda

Vaeric desires a nomadic existence.

The optimal choice is to let Vaeric live in exchange for 10000 Credits, requesting his sister’s Signet Ring.

Although he may initially resist, he will eventually comply. Upon returning to The Keep, inform Viktor that Vaeric is dead and present him with the ring as evidence.

If you’re uncertain, let’s examine the alternatives:

Kill Vaeric: If you choose this route, you can loot the Signet Ring from him and return it to The Keep, where you’ll encounter a pleased Viktor and a resentful Vitoria.
- Let Tane Go: He may disapprove of your actions, but he will revert to his usual drunken state.
- Kill Tane: This option serves as a punishment for Tane’s deceit, but offers minimal rewards beyond his loot.
Persuade Vaeric to Return: You can convince Vaeric to return to his family at Apostate’s Refuge. After a challenging Persuasion check, he’ll agree, admitting he was too impulsive. Upon returning to The Keep, he’ll face both an angry Viktor and a relieved Vitoria. This results in a happy reunion, albeit without the extra credits.

Regardless of your decision, the main storyline will progress. Most importantly, you will gain access to the Armory in Starfield.

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