Fools' Gold

Uncover a humorous curse in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt's Fools' Gold quest. Use Witcher Senses to find a lonely Godling in Lurtch.

"Fools' Gold" is a delightful and humorous secondary quest in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, offering a much-needed lighthearted break from the often grim and serious main storyline. This quest takes Geralt to a small, isolated village in Velen, where he encounters a peculiar curse involving pigs, gold, and a very confused group of villagers. It's a classic Witcher contract with a comedic twist, showcasing the game's excellent writing and world-building.

Quest Giver and Location

You can initiate "Fools' Gold" in the small, unassuming village of Lurtch, located in the eastern part of Velen. Look for a group of villagers gathered near a pigsty, arguing amongst themselves. The quest giver is a peasant named Yontek, who will approach Geralt upon his arrival or if Geralt gets close enough to the commotion. The recommended level for this quest is Level 6, making it an accessible early-game side activity.

Walkthrough

1. Investigate the Pigsty:

   Upon speaking with Yontek, he'll explain the bizarre situation: his pigs are turning into gold, but not in a good way. They're literally becoming solid gold statues, and he suspects a curse. Geralt, ever the professional, agrees to investigate. Head over to the pigsty where the villagers are gathered.

2. Use Your Witcher Senses:

   Activate your Witcher Senses to examine the golden pigs. You'll notice strange markings and a distinct lack of life. Geralt will deduce that this isn't a simple curse but something more magical and unusual. Follow the tracks leading away from the pigsty.

3. Follow the Trail to the Cave:

   The tracks will lead you away from Lurtch and into a nearby cave. Be prepared for a short journey, as the cave entrance is a little distance from the village. As you approach the cave, you might encounter some minor enemies like Drowners or Ghouls, depending on your level and difficulty setting. Deal with them swiftly.

4. Explore the Cave and Confront the Godling:

   Inside the cave, use your Witcher Senses again. You'll find more clues, including strange drawings and evidence of a small, mischievous creature. Deeper within the cave, you'll discover the source of the "curse": a Godling named Ignis Fatuus (or "Pesta" in some translations). This isn't a hostile encounter; the Godling is simply a playful, albeit misguided, spirit.

5. The Godling's Story and the Pig-Gold Transformation:

   Engage in a dialogue with Ignis Fatuus. The Godling will explain that he's lonely and was trying to help the villagers by turning their pigs into gold, believing it would make them happy. He doesn't understand the concept of currency or the value of live animals. This conversation is where much of the quest's humor lies, as Geralt tries to reason with the childlike entity.

6. Resolve the Situation:

   You have a few options to resolve the quest:

   • Convince the Godling to Leave: This is the most straightforward and generally recommended option. Geralt can explain to Ignis Fatuus that his "help" is actually causing problems for the villagers and that he should find a new home. The Godling, being good-natured, will agree to leave Lurtch.
   • Threaten the Godling: Geralt can attempt to intimidate Ignis Fatuus into leaving. While this also works, it's a less empathetic approach and doesn't quite fit the quest's lighthearted tone.
   • Kill the Godling: This is an option, but it's generally not advised. Ignis Fatuus is not evil or malicious, merely naive. Killing him will resolve the quest but feels unnecessary and morally questionable given the circumstances.
7. Return to Yontek:

   After dealing with Ignis Fatuus (regardless of your choice), return to Yontek in Lurtch. Inform him of what you've discovered and how you've resolved the situation. The villagers will be relieved, and the pig-gold transformations will cease.

Rewards

Completing "Fools' Gold" will grant you:

• Experience Points: A decent amount of XP for an early-game secondary quest.
• Crowns: A monetary reward from Yontek for your services.
• A Sense of Satisfaction: For bringing peace (and live pigs) back to Lurtch.

Tips and Notes

• Witcher Senses are Key: This quest heavily relies on your Witcher Senses for tracking and investigation. use them frequently.
• Dialogue Choices Matter (Slightly): While the core outcome remains the same (the Godling leaves or is dealt with), your dialogue choices with Ignis Fatuus can alter the tone of the interaction. Being understanding leads to a more amicable resolution.
• No Combat with the Godling: Ignis Fatuus is not a combat encounter. The challenge lies in the investigation and the unique dialogue.
• Humorous Interlude: Embrace the quest's comedic nature. It's a refreshing change of pace from the more serious monster hunts and political intrigues of Velen.

"Fools' Gold" stands out as a memorable side quest, perfectly blending The Witcher 3's signature dark fantasy with a touch of whimsical humor. It's a testament to the game's ability to craft engaging narratives even in its optional content.