Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into one of the more intriguing side quests in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: the "Deserter Gold" quest. This quest is a fantastic example of the moral ambiguities and tough choices that CD Projekt Red weaves into the game's narrative. So, grab your silver sword, prepare your potions, and let's get started on unraveling this captivating tale.

Initiating the Quest

First things first, let's talk about how to get this quest rolling. To kick things off with the "Deserter Gold" quest, you'll need to head to the area around the abandoned village of Czernobog, which is located in the central part of Velen. As you approach the village, keep your eyes peeled for a group of peasants gathered near a notice board. Interacting with this notice board is your ticket to starting the quest. These notice boards are scattered throughout the world of The Witcher 3, and they're not just decorative; they often contain contracts, rumors, and local news that can lead to side quests. Once you find the notice related to the deserter, take it to trigger the quest in your journal. Reading the notice will give Geralt a brief overview of the situation: a deserter is on the run, and there's a reward for anyone who can bring him to justice – or at least, that's what the notice implies. After picking up the quest from the notice board, your next step is to investigate the area to find clues about the deserter's whereabouts. Use your Witcher Senses to follow tracks, examine disturbed areas, and look for any signs of recent activity. This will eventually lead you to discover more about the deserter and the circumstances surrounding his flight. Remember, the devil is always in the details, and The Witcher 3 rewards thorough exploration and investigation.

Investigating the Deserter

Alright, now that you've got the quest, it's time to put on your detective hat – or rather, activate your Witcher Senses. This part of the quest involves some good old-fashioned sleuthing. Use your Witcher Senses to follow any tracks or disturbances near the village. You're looking for anything that might indicate the deserter's path. As you follow the tracks, you'll likely come across signs of a struggle or a makeshift camp. Examine these areas carefully, as they can provide valuable clues about the deserter's identity, motivations, and current location. Witcher Senses highlight important objects and tracks in the environment, making it easier to piece together the story. Don't just rush through this part – take your time to examine everything thoroughly. You might find a discarded item, a broken weapon, or even a blood trail that leads you closer to the deserter. Also, be on the lookout for any witnesses who might have seen the deserter passing through the area. Villagers, travelers, or even bandits could provide useful information if you know how to ask (or persuade) them. Remember, Geralt is not just a monster hunter; he's also a skilled investigator, and this quest gives you a chance to flex those investigative muscles. Keep your eyes peeled, your senses sharp, and your mind open, and you'll be one step closer to uncovering the truth behind the deserter's flight.

The Moral Dilemma

As you delve deeper into the investigation, you'll start to uncover the real reason why the soldier deserted. It turns out, he wasn't just shirking his duties; he was trying to protect his family from the horrors of war. This is where The Witcher 3 really shines – it presents you with a moral dilemma that isn't black and white. Do you turn him in to face certain punishment, or do you let him go, knowing that he's technically a criminal? This decision isn't just about following the law or breaking it; it's about weighing the value of justice against the value of compassion. The game forces you to consider the consequences of your actions and to decide what kind of person Geralt is. There's no easy answer, and both choices have their own set of repercussions. This is what makes The Witcher 3 so compelling – it's not just about slaying monsters and collecting rewards; it's about making tough choices and living with the consequences. So, as you uncover the truth about the deserter, ask yourself: what's the right thing to do? And be prepared to live with the consequences of your decision.

Choice and Consequences

Okay, so you've uncovered the truth, and now you're at a crossroads. The Witcher 3 is all about choice and consequence, and this quest is a prime example. You have two main options here: turn the deserter in or let him go. Each choice has its own set of outcomes and rewards, so let's break them down.

Option 1: Turn Him In

If you decide to turn the deserter in, you'll receive a reward from the Nilfgaardian commander. You'll be upholding the law, and you'll get some coin for your troubles. However, the deserter will likely face a harsh punishment, and you'll have to live with the knowledge that you contributed to his suffering. The Nilfgaardian commander will thank you for your service and pay you the promised reward, but you might also feel a pang of guilt knowing the deserter's true motivations.

Option 2: Let Him Go

Alternatively, you can choose to let the deserter go free. This means he can return to his family and protect them from the war. You won't get the reward from the Nilfgaardians, but you might gain something more valuable: a clear conscience. Letting him go is an act of compassion, and it aligns with Geralt's character as someone who often bends the rules for the greater good. While you won't receive any monetary reward, you might find satisfaction in knowing that you helped a family in need. This choice reflects the complexities of morality in The Witcher 3, where doing the right thing doesn't always mean following the law.

The Weight of the Decision

Ultimately, the choice is yours. The Witcher 3 doesn't judge you for your decision, but it does make you think about the implications of your actions. Whether you choose to turn the deserter in or let him go, the consequences will ripple through the game world in subtle ways. This quest is a perfect example of how The Witcher 3 creates a rich, immersive experience where your choices truly matter. So, choose wisely, and remember that every decision has a cost.

Rewards

Regardless of your choice, there are some rewards to be gained from this quest, though they vary depending on your decision.

• If you turn in the deserter: You will receive a monetary reward from the Nilfgaardian commander. The amount may vary depending on your dialogue choices and any persuasion attempts you make. This is the most immediate and tangible reward for completing the quest.
• If you let the deserter go: You won't receive any coin from the Nilfgaardians, but you might find a different kind of reward. The deserter may offer you a small token of his gratitude, or you might simply gain the satisfaction of knowing you did the right thing. This choice aligns with Geralt's character as someone who often prioritizes compassion over material gain.

Beyond the immediate rewards, completing the "Deserter Gold" quest also contributes to your overall experience in The Witcher 3. It adds depth to the game's world, introduces you to interesting characters, and challenges you to think critically about morality and justice. These are the kinds of rewards that make The Witcher 3 such a memorable and immersive experience.

Tips and Tricks

Before we wrap up, here are a few tips and tricks to help you navigate the "Deserter Gold" quest:

• Use Your Witcher Senses: Don't forget to use your Witcher Senses to find clues and track the deserter. This is essential for progressing through the quest and uncovering the truth.
• Talk to Everyone: Talk to the villagers and other characters in the area. They might have valuable information that can help you make an informed decision.
• Consider the Consequences: Think carefully about the consequences of your choices. The Witcher 3 is all about choice and consequence, so make sure you're prepared to live with the outcome.

And that's it! The "Deserter Gold" quest in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a captivating tale of moral ambiguity and tough choices. Whether you choose to turn the deserter in or let him go, the consequences will stay with you long after the quest is over. So, dive in, explore the world, and make your own decisions. Happy hunting!

I hope this guide helps you navigate the "Deserter Gold" quest. Good luck on the Path, fellow Witchers!