Infiltration: Nailed It

You’re led up the central stairs of this outpost. Stray too far from Triss, and you’re warned to keep up. Ignore this, and the witch hunters turn hostile (leading to the “Eradication” solution). Triss is handed off to a torturer, who reckons losing a few fingernails might loosen Triss’ tongue (before it’s cut off). Answer with:

“Fine, take her.” Or,

“Fine, but no torturing.” (which raises the suspicion of the hunter; answer callously or use Axii Level 2 so your cover isn’t blown).

While Triss begins her torture, you’re ordered to sit down with Menge. He offers you a drink (interestingly, the goblet is silver; he’s making sure you’re not a doppler). Answer with:

“Why not.”

Menge shoos away Kurt the witch hunter leader, and the conversation turns to testing you regarding the wine and goblet. You can elongate the conversation if you wish, but don’t ask to release Triss. Answer with:

“Your hunters are torturing Triss, but haven’t been paid.”

The muffled sounds of fingernail extraction can be heard as Menge tests your mettle. Hold firm! He’s impressed you turned in your lover. Answer with:

“Witchers do anything for gold” or “Triss betrayed me first.”

This pushes the conversation forward more quickly. Be sure you listen for Triss biting the torturer, after which she’s gagged. Menge is surprised at your callousness; perhaps you can make a deal after all. He asks about Philippa. Make sure you don’t choose “I’m looking for this treasure,” and instead, answer with:

“Free my friend Dandelion.”

Menge refuses as he has a magnificent execution planned for him. In his hubris, he lets slip that Dandelion is being held in the dungeons beneath Temple Isle. Menge stands, drops a couple of notes into a fire, and wants to check in on Triss. He finds Kurt and the torturer dead. Triss advances while paralyzing him with a spell conjured from her bloodied hand. After stabbing him in the throat, she lets Menge fall dead on the torture room floor. Speak with her, telling her about Dandelion’s location.

You can tell her Menge burned some papers, but it is too late to salvage them. You can acquire whether necromancy is worth trying, but Triss doesn’t practice such magic. You decide that your friend Dudu might be able to help. Triss finds an office key on Menge’s body, and a vault key hidden in the lining of his tunic. She hands both to you to give to Dijkstra. This might not be enough, but should keep him off your backs. For now though, it’s time to find a way out of this place. The quest paths now merge, as you return to Dijkstra.