The Blood Curse

Understand the dire consequences of The Blood Curse in The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings. Learn how this debilitating affliction impacts characters and the plo.

While the initial description of "The Blood Curse" was generic, this section now focuses on the specific and pivotal side quest of the same name encountered in Act I of The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings Enhanced Edition. This quest is crucial for understanding the plight of the Baron and his wife, and offers a significant moral choice with lasting consequences.

The Blood Curse Quest Walkthrough

This quest becomes available shortly after Geralt arrives in the Pontar Valley and begins his investigation in the vicinity of La Valette Castle. It is intrinsically linked to the main questline involving the King's assassination and the subsequent political turmoil.

Initiating the Quest

Speak with King Esterad's Advisor in the camp near La Valette Castle. He will mention the strange affliction plaguing the Baron and his wife, hinting at a potential curse. You will then be directed to speak with the Baron himself.

Locating the Baron and his Wife

The Baron can be found in his chambers within the Baron's keep, located in the northern part of the camp. He is a gruff and troubled man, desperate for a solution to his wife's condition. He will explain that his wife, Anabelle, has been afflicted by a strange ailment that has left her catatonic and seemingly unresponsive. He believes she is cursed.

Investigating the Curse

The Baron will implore Geralt to help. To break the curse, Geralt must first understand its nature. This involves:

• Speaking with Anabelle: Geralt can attempt to communicate with Anabelle, though her responses will be cryptic and unsettling.
• Consulting the Baron's Steward: The steward can provide further details about Anabelle's behavior leading up to her current state.
• Finding the Source: The Baron believes the curse originates from a specific artifact or ritual. Geralt will need to investigate the Baron's private chambers and Anabelle's quarters for clues.

The Revelation: The Curse of the Striga

Through investigation and dialogue, Geralt will uncover the truth: Anabelle is not cursed in the traditional sense. She has been afflicted by the curse of a Striga. This is a powerful, monstrous creature born from a human woman who was cursed by a vengeful sorceress. The curse causes the afflicted to transform into a beast during the night and revert to human form during the day, often with no memory of their monstrous actions. The Baron, in his desperation, has been keeping Anabelle locked away, fearing she will harm others.

Breaking the Curse: The Ritual

To break the Striga curse, Geralt must perform a specific ritual. This involves:

• Gathering Ingredients: The Baron will provide Geralt with a list of rare alchemical ingredients needed for the ritual. These typically include items like Vran Extract and other potent components.
• Performing the Ritual: Geralt must return to Anabelle's chambers at night, when the Striga is most active. He will need to place the prepared potion on an altar and then confront the Striga.

Confronting the Striga

The Striga is a formidable opponent. It is fast, agile, and possesses powerful claw attacks. Geralt will need to utilize his Signs effectively:

• Quen: Essential for creating a protective shield against its relentless assaults.
• Igni: Can stagger the Striga and interrupt its attacks.
• Aard: Useful for pushing it back and creating openings.

Strategy Tip: The Striga is vulnerable to Cursed Oil. Ensure you have applied it to your silver sword before the fight. Dodge its lunges and strikes, and strike when it's recovering from an attack. The fight takes place in a confined space, so managing your positioning is key.

The Choice and Consequences

After defeating the Striga, Geralt has a critical choice to make:

• Allow the curse to be broken: If Geralt successfully completes the ritual and defeats the Striga, Anabelle will be freed from the curse. The Baron will be eternally grateful.
• Kill Anabelle: The Baron, in his fear and confusion, might urge Geralt to kill Anabelle to end the threat permanently. This is a morally dark path.

Consequences:

• Breaking the Curse: This is generally considered the "good" outcome. The Baron becomes a valuable ally and provides significant support later in the game. Anabelle is saved.
• Killing Anabelle: This leads to a darker path. The Baron is devastated and potentially becomes an antagonist or a less helpful figure. This choice can affect the availability of certain quests and the overall tone of the game.

Rewards

Upon completion of "The Blood Curse" quest, Geralt will receive:

• Experience Points: A substantial amount, aiding in character progression.
• Orens: A significant sum of in-game currency.
• Potentially unique items or recipes depending on the chosen path and dialogue options.
• The gratitude of the Baron (if the curse is broken), which can unlock further quests and aid.

Missable Content: The choice made at the end of this quest is permanent and has a significant impact on the narrative. Ensure you understand the implications before making your decision.