The Whispering Hillock Dilemma: Crones or Tree – Which Choice is Better in The Witcher 3?

Ultimately, the “better” choice between killing the Whispering Hillock spirit (the “Ghost in the Tree”) or siding with the Crones is subjective and depends entirely on your preferred outcome. There is no objectively “good” option, as both paths lead to significant consequences and moral compromises. Understanding those consequences is key to making an informed decision aligned with your Geralt’s values.

Understanding the Moral Quagmire

The quest line surrounding the Whispering Hillock is a masterclass in moral ambiguity. It forces players to grapple with the lesser of two evils, a recurring theme in The Witcher universe. There’s no clear victory, only shades of gray and unavoidable losses. Whether you prioritize the lives of children, the well-being of villagers, or the fate of the Baron and his family, someone will suffer.

Killing the Whispering Hillock Spirit: A Pragmatic Choice?

Choosing to kill the spirit, as directed by the Crones, seems like the most pragmatic solution on the surface.

• Consequences: The orphans in Crookback Bog are sacrificed and consumed by the Crones. Anna, the Baron’s wife, is spared from becoming a water hag, but remains mentally unstable. The Baron, feeling remorseful and determined, takes Anna in search of a cure, leading to a bittersweet, arguably positive resolution for their family. The villagers of Downwarren are spared a massacre.

• Justification: This path prioritizes the lives of the villagers and the possibility of redemption for the Baron and Anna. While the loss of the orphans is undeniably tragic, the potential for further devastation is averted. For some players, this outcome aligns with Geralt’s role as a monster hunter, choosing the lesser evil to protect the larger community.

Freeing the Whispering Hillock Spirit: A Desperate Gamble?

Choosing to free the spirit presents a different set of consequences, rooted in vengeance and unforeseen chaos.

• Consequences: The spirit fulfills its promise and saves the orphans from the Crones. However, fueled by rage, it massacres the village of Downwarren. Anna is transformed into a water hag and ultimately dies. The Baron, consumed by despair, hangs himself.

• Justification: This path prioritizes the lives of the orphans, offering them a chance at a future, albeit uncertain. Some players may sympathize with the spirit’s desire for revenge after being imprisoned and manipulated. However, the cost of this decision is devastating, leading to the destruction of Downwarren and the tragic demise of the Baron and Anna.

The Crones: Monsters in Disguise

Regardless of your choice regarding the Whispering Hillock, it’s crucial to remember the true nature of the Crones. They are ancient, malevolent beings who thrive on suffering and manipulation. Their promises are rarely sincere, and their actions are consistently cruel. Whether you kill the spirit or not, you will eventually confront them and witness their depravity firsthand. Studying the lore surrounding The Witcher universe can illuminate the themes present in the game, as suggested by resources from GamesLearningSociety.org.

Considerations for Your Choice

Ultimately, the choice between killing the tree or siding with the Crones is a personal one. Consider these factors:

• Your Geralt’s Personality: Do you roleplay Geralt as a pragmatic monster hunter or a compassionate protector?
• Your Priorities: Do you prioritize the lives of the children, the well-being of the villagers, or the fate of the Baron and his family?
• Your Tolerance for Ambiguity: Are you comfortable with making a difficult choice that has no easy answers?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I save both the orphans and Anna?

No, there is no way to save both the orphans and Anna. The quest is designed to force a difficult choice with unavoidable consequences.

2. What happens if I kill the tree spirit before meeting the Crones?

If you kill the spirit before meeting the Crones, the storyline will adjust to reflect this action. Anna will be driven mad, and the Baron will take her away to seek help, similar to the outcome where you kill the spirit at the Crones‘ behest.

3. Is the spirit in the Whispering Hillock evil?

The spirit’s nature is complex. It exhibits both vengeful and protective qualities. While it seeks to uphold its end of the bargain by saving the orphans, it also unleashes its wrath upon Downwarren, suggesting a deeply rooted malice.

4. What are the long-term consequences of my choice regarding the Whispering Hillock?

Your choice significantly impacts the fate of the Baron and his family and influences the immediate outcome for the orphans and the villagers of Downwarren. However, it has minimal impact on the overall main storyline or the end game.

5. Can I kill the Crones and the tree spirit?

Yes, you will eventually have the opportunity to confront and potentially kill the Crones during the “Bald Mountain” quest. Whether or not you killed the Whispering Hillock spirit earlier doesn’t change this confrontation.

6. Is it better to kill the tree spirit for the “good ending”?

There is no single “good ending.” The best ending is the one that aligns with your personal moral compass and your desired outcome for the characters involved.

7. What happens if I choose the wrong doll for Anna?

Choosing the wrong doll during the ritual to lift the curse will result in Anna remaining a water hag, leading to the Baron’s suicide.

8. How do I find the correct doll for Anna?

The correct doll is the one adorned with a violet hollyhock bloom, as hollyhocks were Anna’s favorite flower.

9. Do the Crones eat the orphans regardless of my choice?

If you choose to kill the spirit, the orphans are explicitly sacrificed to the Crones. If you free the spirit, it whisks the orphans away, but the villagers of Downwarren suffer a terrible fate.

10. Can I fight the Crones as Geralt?

No, Geralt does not directly fight the Crones. Ciri faces them during the “Bald Mountain” quest.

11. What is the Whispering Hillock’s true identity?

The true identity of the Whispering Hillock spirit is a complex subject, but the game hints that she may be connected to an ancient entity with power over the land and perhaps even the origin of the Crones themselves.

12. Does my choice about the Whispering Hillock affect Ciri’s story?

Indirectly, yes. Ciri’s storyline crosses with the stories created around the Whispering Hillock area. So, the choice impacts the storytelling around that area.

13. Is it possible to avoid the tragic consequences entirely?

Unfortunately, no. The quest is designed to present a no-win scenario, forcing players to make a difficult choice with lasting consequences.

14. Is the Leshen related to the Whispering Hillock Spirit?

While the Leshen and the Whispering Hillock spirit are both connected to the natural world, they are distinct entities with different powers and motivations. The Leshen is a protector of the forest, while the spirit is a more ambiguous and vengeful being.

15. Where can I find more information about the lore surrounding the Whispering Hillock?

You can find detailed information about the lore in The Witcher books, online wikis dedicated to The Witcher universe, and academic resources exploring the themes and narratives of the game, such as the Games Learning Society which explores the educational aspects of gaming.

Conclusion

The Whispering Hillock quest remains one of the most memorable and morally challenging aspects of The Witcher 3. By carefully considering the consequences of each choice, you can navigate this complex situation and arrive at an outcome that aligns with your personal vision of Geralt’s journey. There is no right or wrong answer, only a difficult choice that will shape the fate of many lives.