The contract titled In The Heart Of The Woods is one of the most morally complex quests featured in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Located in the isolated village of Fayrlund on Skellige, Geralt of Rivia investigates a series of mysterious deaths tied to an ancient Woodland Spirit. Players must navigate a deep cultural divide between traditional elders and radical young villagers while deciding the fate of the monster.
Investigating the Woodland Spirit in Fayrlund
Upon arriving in Fayrlund, Geralt discovers that a powerful leshen has been controlling the local wildlife and targeting hunters. Investigating the surrounding forest reveals tracks and clues that confirm the beast's supernatural influence over the territory. Reading the bestiary entry provides vital details about how this creature operates and binds itself to human hosts.
The village itself is sharply divided over how to address the creature. Harald, the village elder, believes the leshen tempers the villagers into stronger warriors through harsh trials. Conversely, a young man named Sven demands that the monster be slain to end the cycle of violence.
Siding with Harald and Renewing the Pact
Choosing to side with Harald requires Geralt to respect the ancient traditions of Skellige. Geralt must travel deep into the woods to offer wolf hearts at an ancient altar, pacifying the spirit without violence. Completing this ritual ensures the monster remains peaceful toward those who honor the old ways.
However, this peaceful resolution carries heavy narrative consequences. While Geralt is away, Sven and his followers seize power by murdering Harald and the other village elders. Siding with Harald also prevents players from earning specific achievements or monster mutagens.
Siding with Sven and Slaying the Leshen
If players decide to side with Sven, Geralt must first break the leshen's bond with the village. Using witcher senses, Geralt identifies Hilde, a young woman who was marked by the beast's magic. Sven then either exiles or executes Hilde before Geralt proceeds to destroy the monster's hidden totems in the forest.
Once the totems are destroyed, Geralt faces the ancient leshen in direct combat alongside its wolf guardians. Defeating the beast allows Geralt to claim valuable trophy rewards and specialized armor pieces. Sadly, returning to town reveals that Sven's group executed the elders during the battle anyway.
Evaluating the Consequences of Your Decision
Neither outcome provides a perfectly happy ending, highlighting the moral gray areas that define the game. Leaving the leshen alive preserves local traditions but leaves the village under the control of violent rebels. Killing the monster brings immediate protection from the beast, yet costs the village its historical guidance and spiritual roots.
Ultimately, players must weigh tactical rewards against story consequences when completing this contract. Choosing whether to serve as a monster slayer or a mediator defines Geralt's journey through Skellige.
