Navigating the complex moral landscape of Vergen in The Witcher 2 Assassins of Kings often forces players to make difficult deductions. The With Flickering Heart side quest stands out as a prime example of this narrative design, tasking Geralt with solving a series of mysterious murders involving young men. Your choices during this investigation will directly determine who lives and who dies in this troubled community.

Investigating the Murders in Vergen

The quest begins in Chapter 2 when Geralt learns about several young soldiers disappearing and turning up dead near the elven ruins. Local rumors immediately point toward a seductive succubus living in the tunnels beneath the city. To uncover the truth, Geralt must gather clues from the crime scenes and speak with a suspicious elf named Eliezer.

A critical step in the investigation involves examining the victims' bodies located inside the village catacombs. By purchasing specialized surgical tools from a local merchant, Geralt can perform an autopsy on one of the fresh corpses. This careful examination reveals a hidden metal fragment from a blade, casting serious doubt on the initial theories surrounding the monster.

Siding With Eliezer or the Succubus

After discovering the secret lair of the succubus, the creature defends herself by claiming she only drains energy but does not kill. She accuses Eliezer of committing the murders out of deep jealousy and spite. At this pivotal moment, Geralt must choose whether to believe the monster or trust the elven soldier's word.

If you choose to accuse Eliezer based on the forensic evidence, the elf will confess to his crimes and attack the Witcher in a fit of rage. Defeating him in combat clears the succubus of all charges and restores peace to the underground tunnels. Conversely, choosing to ignore the evidence allows you to side with the townspeople and execute the creature immediately.

Consequences of Your Final Verdict

Accusing Eliezer yields the most favorable outcome for players looking to preserve innocent lives. The grateful succubus will remain alive, offering Geralt unique rewards and becoming a recurring ally throughout your time in Vergen. This path successfully brings the true murderer to justice while protecting an innocent creature.

If Geralt decides to kill the succubus without checking the bodies thoroughly, Eliezer will reward you for eliminating the threat. However, this choice carries a dark twist as the elf remains free to continue his violent actions undetected. This mistaken judgment leaves a deceptive murderer walking the streets while an innocent being pays the ultimate price.