The Witcher 3 “Calm Before the Storm”: Consequences of Choices (bath, alcohol, and a kiss in the stables)

“The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” is renowned for its intricate narrative, compelling characters, and the weight of player choices. One such quest that demands careful decision-making is “The Calm Before the Storm.” This quest takes place in Skellige and centers on Ciri, presenting players with significant choices that include a bath in the sauna, consuming alcohol, and a gesture of affection in the stables. Each decision not only shapes the story but also defines Ciri’s character, making the player ponder the consequences of their choices.

Introduction to “The Calm Before the Storm”

This quest kicks off immediately after the events of “Nameless,” where Yennefer employs necromancy on Skjall to gain insights into Ciri’s arrival in Lofoten. The narrative then shifts, allowing players to assume the role of Ciri, who has been transported to Skellige by a mysterious elf. As Ciri awakens, Skjall and his sister, Astrid, prepare her for what lies ahead, opening up the opportunity for pivotal choices that affect the unfolding story.

Choices Within the Sauna

After a brief orientation, Astrid invites Ciri to the sauna, a customary part of Skellige culture. This section of the quest introduces several decisions that, although they don’t have long-term ramifications, influence the immediate gameplay and character interaction.

• State of Dress: When entering the sauna, players can decide whether Ciri will disrobe partially or completely. This choice reflects on Ciri’s comfort and adaptability to the local customs.
• Conversation in the Sauna: Within the sauna, Ciri engages in a conversation touching upon her personal life and her relationship with Skjall. While these dialogues don’t alter major plot points, they provide deeper character insight and cultural context.
• A Dip in Cold Water: Following the sauna session, Astrid and her friends suggest that Ciri dive into a nearby cold pool. This choice replenishes some of Ciri’s health, preparing her for the challenges ahead.
• Shot of Freya’s Firewater: Consuming this local spirit not only restores health but also signifies Ciri’s integration into Skellige’s traditions and their acceptance of her.

Preparing to Ride Out

After the sauna experience, Ciri returns to the dresser to don her gear in preparation for the next segment of the quest. These moments of quietude abruptly shift, as danger lurks around the corner.

Battle in Lofoten

As Ciri steps out, the tranquility of the village is shattered by the arrival of the Wild Hunt. Now, players must guide Ciri through a series of intense skirmishes, utilizing her Blink ability to dispatch multiple foes efficiently.

• Combat Strategy: Leveraging Ciri’s unique abilities, particularly her Blink attack, players can manage the overwhelming force of the Wild Hunt. This power allows Ciri to strike several adversaries simultaneously, making it an invaluable tool in this confrontation.
• Escape with Skjall: After a series of encounters, a cutscene shows Skjall and Ciri making their escape on horseback. They must navigate through enemies, racing toward Drowned Dead Rock as the Wild Hunt continues its pursuit. Although players may encounter more foes, it’s advisable to focus on advancing rather than engaging.

The Consequences of Key Decisions

“The Calm Before the Storm” serves as a crucial juncture in Ciri’s journey, packed with decisions that subtly influence her path. While the immediate outcomes of these choices might seem minor, their impact on Ciri’s portrayal and the player’s perception is significant.

The Bath in the Sauna

The choice to partially or fully disrobe in the sauna is symbolic of Ciri’s willingness to assimilate with Skellige’s customs. If players choose to follow the local practice, it showcases Ciri’s respect for the culture she’s momentarily part of and her adaptability to new environments.

Consumption of Alcohol

Drinking Freya’s Firewater is another decision that can be interpreted on multiple levels. Accepting the shot aligns Ciri with Skellige’s traditions, reflecting a bond with those around her. Additionally, it offers a practical benefit by restoring health, essential for the daunting battles ahead.

The Kiss in the Stables

While “The Calm Before the Storm” doesn’t directly introduce a kiss in the stables, other quests and moments in the game involve significant choices like this. Such decisions often symbolize deeper emotional connections and can alter future interactions. Even though this specific quest doesn’t hinge on a romantic gesture, it sets the tone for Ciri’s relationships and how she navigates her intricate world.

Character Development Through Player Choices

The decisions in “The Calm Before the Storm” are pivotal in fleshing out Ciri’s character, providing players with a sense of agency. Through their choices, players can shape Ciri as someone who embraces local customs, builds bonds with those she encounters, or retains a sense of detachment.

Detailed Breakdown of Choices and Their Impacts

The Larger Context of Ciri’s Choices

The choices made during “The Calm Before the Storm” resonate beyond the immediate quest. They contribute to the overall narrative arc, revealing different facets of Ciri’s personality and shaping her journey through Skellige, Velen, and Novigrad. These moments emphasize CD Projekt Red’s commitment to a nuanced storytelling experience, where even small decisions enrich the player’s engagement with the game world.

Conclusion

“The Calm Before the Storm” in “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” is more than just a quest; it’s a narrative experience sculpted by player choices. Whether it’s a simple bath, a symbolic drink, or a fierce battle, each decision crafts a unique version of Ciri’s journey. As players navigate through these choices, they’re not just advancing a story—they’re living it through the eyes of one of the series’ most compelling characters.