The Definitive Guide to Completing The Nilfgaardian Connection in Witcher 3

Introduction

In "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt," quests often intertwine with the rich lore and complex relationships of the world. "The Nilfgaardian Connection" is one such quest set during a time of political intrigue, requiring Geralt’s investigative skills to unravel a mystery. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough to help players navigate the intricacies of this mission, ensuring that no crucial detail is overlooked.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Starting the Quest
- Start the quest by visiting Velen after completing the main quest "A Deadly Plot."
- Speak to Officer in the village of Lindenvale to trigger the quest dialogue.
- Accept the lead from the Nilfgaardian soldier regarding the mysterious disappearance of merchants.
Investigating the Manor
- Head to the Abandoned Manor marked on your map.
- Enter the manor and notice the blood trails leading to the upper floors.
- Use your Witcher senses to investigate:
  - Find a bloody handkerchief on the floor.
  - Interact with a broken crate that hints at a struggle.
Find Clues Inside the Manor
- Continue your exploration:
  - In the bedroom, examine a drained empty vial indicating it was used for poison.
  - Search the dining area for more clues; you will find a letter detailing suspicious merchant transactions.
Confronting the Nilfgaard Soldier
- After gathering the clues, exit the manor and confront the Nilfgaardian soldier outside.
- Through conversation, gain information regarding where the merchants could have been taken.
- Accept or decline further assistance from him based on your moral stance.
Tracking the Merchants
- Follow the leads to the swamp area to look for the merchant’s trail.
- Utilize your Witcher senses again to track:
  - Identify footprints leading into the woods.
  - Follow the markings for additional clue gathering.
Dealing with Bandit Encounters
- While traversing the woods, prepare for potential bandit attacks:
  - Use signs (such as Igni or Aard) strategically to get the upper hand.
  - Loot the bandit camps if you encounter any to collect valuable items and information.
Discover the Merchant Camp
- Find the hidden camp where the merchants are being held.
- Decide your approach: Stealth or direct confrontation.
  - If you choose stealth:
    - Use your crossbow to take out guards quietly.
  - For a frontal attack:
    - Equip your best armor and weapons for a fight.
    - Utilize potions and health items to maintain your performance in battle.
Dialogue Choices
- Upon freeing the merchants, make sure to ask them about their predicament.
- Choices in dialogue can affect the merchant’s attitude towards you and your rewards after the quest.
Returning to Lindenvale
- After rescuing the merchants, return to Lindenvale.
- Report your findings to the Nilfgaardian Officer waiting in the village.
- Depending on your actions throughout the quest, you'll get different outcomes in terms of rewards.
Quest Completion
- Complete the quest by discussing what led to the series of unfortunate events with the officer.
- Accept your rewards, which may include gold and unique items, depending on dialogue choices made during your adventure.

Conclusion

Completing "The Nilfgaardian Connection" requires a blend of investigation, decision-making, and combat skills. By following this detailed walkthrough, players can navigate the intricate challenges of the quest and experience the rich narrative woven throughout The Witcher 3. With your newfound knowledge, Geralt will become even more adept at tackling future mysteries and adventures in this sprawling world.