What's the Best Price on a Trout?

Head into The Bits district of Novigrad, finding the leaning townhouse where Triss is currently hiding out. Beware of Whoreson’s henchmen, who may be active (and must be defeated) in this area. Enter the townhouse and ascend to Triss’ room. She tells you Lady Ingrid Vegelbud has sent her a message. She is prepared to help mages escape from Novigrad, but this isn’t charity; it is a quid pro quo. She’s supposed to find out more from a servant of the Lady’s, who has arranged to meet at the fish market. You can offer to help, tell her not to go near, and offer other advice. However, it is decided that you’ll wait nearby, while she meets this mystery man.

Journey southwest across Novigrad, toward the Town Square and the fishmarket just south and a little west from there, close to the canal bridge. The servant himself is dressed as a townsman, and stands close to the bridge. Speak with him regarding “trout,” and he isn’t happy to deal with you, but he has little other choice. He tells you to follow him.

He heads south across the canal bridge, under the stone archway, before he’s set upon by three bandits! Fight them off quickly. Triss soon appears, telling you the bandits worked for the witch hunters. Ask what’s going on, and you’re told Lady Vegelbud’s son, Albert, has taken an interest in alchemy, and the Temple Guard knows of this heretical pastime. Bribery isn’t working. Posit that Albert might have to flee away from his mansion. This is to take place at a forthcoming masquerade ball. You can call this idea good or bad; it’s still taking place! You’re given an invitation, and told to wear a fox mask so you’re easily let in by the Vegelbuds’ estate guards. Opt to head there immediately, or after you prepare. Triss is adamant you look the part. Which means visiting Elihal’s shop. What’s more, Triss wants you to wear a doublet!