Hey guys! Have you ever wondered about that elusive deserter gold in The Witcher 3? Well, you're in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find that sweet, sweet gold. We're going to cover the quest, the locations, and even some tips to make the search easier. So grab your sword, potion, and let's get started!

Understanding the Quest

The quest for the deserter gold, often known as "Deserter Gold", is one of the many engaging side missions in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. This quest usually begins by stumbling upon a notice board in one of the war-torn villages or towns scattered throughout the Northern Kingdoms. These notice boards are treasure troves of information, filled with contracts for monster hunting, local announcements, and, of course, requests for assistance. When you find the relevant notice, it will typically detail the plight of a local merchant or village elder who has been robbed of their hard-earned gold by a group of deserters. These deserters, often former soldiers who have abandoned their posts, have resorted to banditry to survive, preying on the weak and vulnerable.

Accepting the quest will add it to your journal, providing you with some initial information about the crime and potential leads to follow. The quest description will usually mention the location where the robbery occurred and any clues that might help you track down the deserters. This could include descriptions of the bandits, their hideout, or any distinguishing marks or behaviors that witnesses may have observed. It’s important to read the quest description carefully, as it often contains valuable information that can significantly speed up your search. Once you have the quest in your journal, the real adventure begins. Geralt, with his keen Witcher senses and vast knowledge of the world, must now set out to find the deserters and recover the stolen gold. This often involves a combination of tracking, investigating, and combat, as the deserters are unlikely to give up their ill-gotten gains without a fight. Along the way, you may encounter various obstacles and challenges, such as dangerous monsters, treacherous terrain, and even moral dilemmas that force you to make difficult choices. Successfully completing the quest not only rewards you with the stolen gold but also with experience points and the gratitude of the locals, further enhancing Geralt’s reputation as a skilled and honorable Witcher. So, keep your eyes peeled for those notice boards, and get ready to embark on another thrilling adventure in the world of The Witcher 3!

Key Locations to Investigate

When you're on the hunt for deserter gold, knowing where to look is half the battle. The Witcher 3 is a massive open world, and the deserters could be hiding out in any number of locations. However, there are a few key areas that are more likely to hold the answers you seek. First, keep an eye out for abandoned villages. These desolate settlements, often ravaged by war or monster attacks, make perfect hideouts for bandits and deserters. The dilapidated buildings and overgrown vegetation provide ample cover, and the lack of inhabitants means there's little risk of interference. Search every nook and cranny, as the deserters may have stashed their loot in hidden compartments or buried it somewhere nearby.

Next up are forests and caves. The dense forests of the Northern Kingdoms are teeming with life, but they also offer plenty of opportunities for concealment. Deserters may use the dense foliage to ambush travelers or set up hidden camps. Similarly, caves provide a natural shelter from the elements and can be easily defended. Explore any caves you come across thoroughly, as they may contain secret passages or hidden chambers where the deserters have stored their stolen gold. Don't forget to use your Witcher Senses to detect hidden tracks or clues that might lead you to their hideout. Furthermore, keep an eye out for ruins and old battlegrounds. These areas are often overlooked by the authorities, making them ideal for deserters looking to lay low. The crumbling walls and overgrown vegetation provide ample cover, and the deserted atmosphere means there's little chance of encountering unwanted attention. Explore the ruins carefully, searching for any signs of recent activity, such as campfires, discarded equipment, or freshly dug graves. The deserters may have even repurposed some of the old structures for their own use, so be sure to check inside any buildings that are still standing. By focusing your search on these key locations, you'll significantly increase your chances of finding the deserter gold and bringing the perpetrators to justice. So, keep your eyes peeled, trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path – you never know what treasures (or dangers) you might find!

Following the Trail

Following the trail in The Witcher 3 is more than just wandering around; it's about using Geralt's enhanced senses to piece together clues and uncover hidden information. When searching for deserter gold, the trail might start with a simple set of footprints or a discarded piece of armor. Activate your Witcher Senses by pressing the appropriate button (usually the left trigger on consoles or the middle mouse button on PC), and the world around you will shift into a heightened state of awareness. Footprints will glow red, bloodstains will become visible, and objects of interest will be highlighted.

Start by examining the area where the robbery took place. Look for any signs of a struggle, such as overturned carts, broken fences, or bloodstains on the ground. Follow the footprints leading away from the scene, paying close attention to their direction and any distinguishing features. Are they heading towards the forest, or are they leading towards a nearby village? Are there any signs that the deserters were traveling with heavy loads, such as deep impressions in the ground? As you follow the trail, be sure to examine any objects you come across carefully. A discarded piece of armor might reveal the deserters' affiliation, while a broken weapon could provide clues about their fighting skills. Use your Witcher Senses to analyze these objects and uncover any hidden information. You might even find a letter or a map that reveals the location of their hideout.

Sometimes, the trail will lead you to a dead end, or it might be obscured by rain or snow. In these cases, you'll need to rely on your instincts and your knowledge of the local area to pick up the trail again. Look for landmarks that the deserters might have used to navigate, such as prominent trees, rock formations, or bodies of water. Consider the terrain and the weather conditions, and try to imagine which route the deserters would have taken. You might also want to talk to the locals, as they may have seen the deserters passing through the area. Ask them about their appearance, their direction of travel, and any other details that might help you narrow down your search. By combining your Witcher Senses with your knowledge of the world and your ability to gather information, you'll be able to follow the trail of the deserters and uncover the location of their stolen gold. So, trust your instincts, pay attention to the details, and don't be afraid to ask for help – you never know what secrets you might uncover!

Combat Strategies for Dealing with Deserters

Alright, so you've tracked down the deserters, and now it's time to face them. These guys aren't pushovers, so you'll need a solid combat strategy. The Witcher 3 offers a variety of combat options, from swordplay to signs and potions. Here's how to use them effectively against deserters.

Swordplay

Swordplay is your bread and butter in The Witcher 3, and it's essential for taking down deserters. Start by choosing the right sword for the job. Silver swords are more effective against monsters, while steel swords are better suited for humans. Since deserters are human, you'll want to use your steel sword. Before engaging, apply the appropriate oil to your blade. Oils provide a temporary damage boost against specific enemy types, so look for an oil that's effective against humans or bandits. When fighting deserters, footwork is key. Use quick dodges and rolls to avoid their attacks, and then counter with swift strikes of your own. Pay attention to their attack patterns, and learn to recognize their tells so you can anticipate their moves. Use light attacks for quick, precise strikes, and heavy attacks for more powerful blows that can stagger or knock down your opponents. Don't be afraid to mix things up, and experiment with different attack combinations to find what works best for you.

Signs

Signs are magical abilities that Geralt can use to supplement his swordplay. They can be incredibly useful for controlling the battlefield and weakening your enemies. One of the most effective signs against deserters is Quen, which creates a protective shield around Geralt. Use Quen to absorb incoming attacks and prevent yourself from taking damage. This is especially useful when facing multiple opponents or when dealing with heavily armored enemies. Another useful sign is Aard, which sends out a wave of force that can stagger or knock down your opponents. Use Aard to disrupt their attacks, create openings for your own strikes, or knock them off balance. If you're facing a large group of deserters, consider using Igni, which unleashes a stream of fire that can set your enemies ablaze. Fire damage is particularly effective against lightly armored opponents, and it can also cause panic and disarray among their ranks. Finally, don't forget about Yrden, which creates a magical trap that slows down enemies and makes them more vulnerable to attack. Use Yrden to control the flow of combat and create opportunities for your allies to strike.

Potions and Bombs

Potions and bombs can give you a significant edge in combat, but it's important to use them strategically. Before engaging the deserters, take a moment to assess the situation and choose the right potions for the job. Tawny Owl increases your stamina regeneration rate, allowing you to cast more signs and perform more attacks. Swallow restores your health over time, helping you stay alive during prolonged battles. Thunderbolt increases your attack power, allowing you to deal more damage with each strike. When it comes to bombs, Grapeshot is a good all-around choice, as it deals explosive damage to a wide area. Use Grapeshot to weaken groups of enemies or to clear out obstacles. Dancing Star is another useful bomb that sets enemies on fire, dealing damage over time and causing them to panic. Samum is a smoke bomb that can disorient your opponents, making them easier to hit. By using potions and bombs strategically, you can turn the tide of battle in your favor and emerge victorious against even the toughest deserters.

Claiming Your Reward

Once you've defeated the deserters and recovered the gold, it's time to claim your reward. Return to the person who posted the notice and hand over the stolen goods. They'll be grateful for your help and will reward you with a sum of money, as well as experience points. In some cases, they may also offer you a unique item or a discount on their goods. Claiming your reward is more than just a transaction; it's a way to build your reputation and earn the respect of the local community. By helping those in need, you'll become known as a reliable and trustworthy Witcher, which can open up new opportunities and quests in the future. So, don't forget to collect your reward – you've earned it!

And there you have it! You're now fully equipped to find that deserter gold in The Witcher 3. Happy hunting, and may your pockets be ever full!