Are the Crones Good or Bad in The Witcher 3?
The Crones in The Witcher 3 are complex characters that cannot be simply classified as good or bad, as their actions and motivations are multifaceted and influenced by the moral ambiguity of the game’s world. Their nature is more aligned with being malevolent entities that serve as the primary antagonists in the Velen arc, living in Crookback Bog and exerting significant influence over the locals through their witchcraft and magic.
Understanding the Crones
The Crones, consisting of Whispess, Weavess, and Brewess, are central to the mysteries and dangers of the witcher world, particularly in the context of Velen and the Crookback Bog. Their role in the game is crucial, as they embody the dark and arcane aspects of the world, often making morally challenging decisions for the player.
The Crones’ Impact on the Story
The Crones’ influence extends to several key quests and storylines, including “Ladies of the Wood” and interactions with Geralt of Rivia and Ciri. Their actions, such as the intended sacrifice of the orphans of Crookback Bog, showcase their ruthless nature and the consequences of dealing with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should You Kill the Crones in Witcher 3?
Killing the Crones directly is not a straightforward option in the game, and attempting to do so may lead to unintended consequences, including potential game overs or negative outcomes for other characters.
2. What Happens if You Kill the Tree Spirit?
Killing the tree spirit during the Whispering Hillock quest will result in the Crones murdering the orphans, but it spares Anna’s life and saves the village of Downwarren from the spirit’s wrath.
3. Can You Save Anna and the Orphans?
There is no scenario where both Anna and the orphans can be saved without one party suffering negative consequences, highlighting the moral dilemmas presented by the game.
4. How Powerful Are the Crones?
The Crones are powerful beings whose magic operates through pacts and rituals, making them formidable opponents, especially when prepared.
5. Should You Free the Spirit in the Tree?
Freeing the spirit allows the orphans to escape but leads to the destruction of Downwarren, showing the complexity of choices in the game.
6. Can You Deal with the Crones Without Killing Them?
Dealing with the Crones often involves negotiation or complying with their requests, as direct confrontation can be lethal.
7. What Are the Consequences of Killing the Crones?
Killing the Crones, or failing to comply with their wishes, can lead to severe consequences, including curse and death for other characters.
8. Are the Crones Purely Evil?
The Crones are not purely evil but rather embody a primal and amoral force, acting on their own interests and the balance of nature.
9. How Do You Save the Baron?
Saving the Baron involves making specific choices, such as killing the Whispering Hillock, which allows him and Anna to live, though with consequences for others.
10. Can You Find the Hidden Children?
Using Witcher Senses helps locate the hidden children in the swamp village, which is part of the quest to understand the Crones’ intentions.
11. What Happens if You Don’t Kill the Tree Spirit?
Not killing the tree spirit but instead freeing it results in the death of the villagers in Downwarren, showcasing the dire consequences of choices.
12. Is the Tree Spirit Evil?
The tree spirit‘s nature is ambiguous, and whether it is evil depends on the player’s perspective and the context of the story.
13. Can You Save Both Anna and the Children?
Unfortunately, the game’s design means that saving both Anna and the children without any negative consequences is not possible, reflecting the harsh realities of the Witcher world.
14. How Do the Crones Retaliate?
The Crones retaliate against those who cross them through magic and curses, which can have long-lasting effects on characters and the storyline.
15. What Is the Best Approach to Dealing with the Crones?
The best approach involves understanding their motivations and negotiating or complying with their requests when possible, as direct confrontation is often risky and can lead to undesirable outcomes.