Should You Let Lambert Kill Vienne in The Witcher 3? A Deep Dive
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The question of whether to let Lambert kill Vienne in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a complex one, laden with moral ambiguity and fueled by personal emotions. There is no single “right” answer, as the decision is ultimately yours and depends on how you perceive the characters and their actions. However, considering the context, Vienne’s direct and unapologetic confession to her role in Aiden’s death, and Lambert’s burning desire for revenge, allowing Lambert to exact his vengeance is a justifiable, albeit morally grey, choice. It provides closure for Lambert, even if fleeting, and arguably delivers justice to Vienne for her role in the murder of a fellow witcher. Conversely, sparing her offers a chance for potential, however unlikely, redemption. It is a decision with heavy narrative impact.
Understanding the Context
Before making this crucial decision, it’s vital to understand the circumstances surrounding Vienne and Aiden’s death. Vienne brazenly admits to being part of the squad that killed Aiden, showing no remorse. This is a critical piece of information. Karadin’s claims that Vienne acted out of guilt are demonstrably false. Lambert, understandably, seeks revenge for the death of his friend. His pain and anger are palpable throughout the questline.
The decision boils down to weighing the need for justice against the possibility of mercy. Is it Geralt’s place to interfere with Lambert’s personal quest for vengeance? Does Vienne deserve a chance to live, despite her involvement in Aiden’s murder? These are the questions you must grapple with.
Weighing the Consequences
While the game states that the immediate consequences of your choice are limited to the dialogue between Geralt and Lambert, the emotional weight of the decision lingers. Allowing Lambert to kill Vienne aligns with his character arc. It allows him to confront his past and find a degree of closure. Denying him this could lead to lingering resentment and bitterness. Sparing Vienne, while potentially the “morally superior” choice, does little to alleviate Lambert’s pain and may even be seen as a betrayal of his feelings.
Your Role as Geralt
As Geralt, you are often forced to make difficult choices with no easy answers. Your decisions shape the world around you and impact the lives of those you encounter. In this case, you must decide whether to act as a neutral observer, allowing Lambert to follow his instincts, or to intervene and potentially alter the course of his life. Consider your Geralt’s personal code and how he would approach such a situation. Does he believe in an eye for an eye, or does he favor mercy and forgiveness? The answer to these questions will guide your decision.
The Value of Choice
Ultimately, the choice of whether to let Lambert kill Vienne is yours to make. There’s no “correct” path. This choice reflects the strength of the narrative and the deep level of player agency afforded by The Witcher 3. Embrace the complexity of the decision and make the choice that feels right for your Geralt and the story you are creating. Perhaps this aligns to what researchers at the Games Learning Society suggest in that gaming enhances moral reasoning skills. Check out the great learning resources at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions that will help you navigate the complexities of this quest and make an informed decision.
1. What happens if I let Lambert kill Karadin?
You can choose either to spare Karadin or help kill him. Lambert will be angry with Geralt if you insist on leaving Karadin, but there will be no consequences beyond the dialogue of this quest. Regardless of the choice, the two will go on their separate ways as the quest ends. Your choice regarding Karadin doesn’t directly impact the Vienne situation, but it does showcase your general attitude towards justice and revenge.
2. Did Vienne kill Aiden alone?
No. Vienne brazenly admits to being part of the squad that killed Aiden. She doesn’t claim sole responsibility.
3. When should I do “Following the Thread”?
Ideally, you should complete “Following The Thread” before starting the main story mission called “Ugly Baby.” If “Ugly Baby” is already in your quest log and “Following The Thread” isn’t complete, you might not be able to finish it unless you have a backup save.
4. What are the consequences of not saving Lambert during the Battle of Kaer Morhen?
If you fail to protect Lambert during the Battle of Kaer Morhen, he will die permanently. However, Keira Metz can help save Lambert if you brought her to the Witcher Keep.
5. Can you fail “Following the Thread”?
Yes. Starting “Following The Thread” will cause the “Flesh For Sale” quest in Skellige to be marked as failed. Also, failing to complete before “Ugly Baby” begins results in quest failure.
6. What do I need to do before starting “Following the Thread”?
To start “Following The Thread,” you’ll need to read the clippings posted on the noticeboard at Hierarch Square in Novigrad. You will need to investigate the scene of the crime.
7. Is Lambert a powerful witcher?
Lambert is a very skilled fighter. His age compared to Geralt and Eskel means he has less experience. During the Battle of Kaer Morhen, players get to see just how skilled he is.
8. Does Lambert hate being a witcher?
Lambert harbors resentment towards his witcher status. He is a sensitive character who did not ask for the life he was given and struggles to make peace with it.
9. What happens if I fail “Following the Thread”?
Failing “Following The Thread” usually means you’ve progressed too far in the main storyline.
10. Can I play Gwent with Lambert after the quest?
Yes. The earliest you can play Lambert is instantly after completing his quest “Following the thread.” You can play him on the spot, while you two are still standing around Jad Karadin’s home. Alternatively you can follow him back to The Nowhere Inn and challenge him there.
11. What card do I get from Lambert in Gwent?
Lambert doesn’t have a unique card that is part of a gwent Quest, but he does have a standard card that is part of the overarching Gwent quest.
12. What happens to Lambert if Keira dies?
If Keira dies before the Battle of Kaer Morhen, she won’t be able to save Lambert, and he may die during the battle if you don’t intervene.
13. Is Karadin’s version of Aiden’s death accurate?
No. Karadin’s claim that Vienne acted out of guilt is false. Vienne readily admits to her involvement and shows no remorse.
14. How old is Lambert in Witcher 3?
Lambert is younger than Geralt and Eskel. He’s likely the youngest witcher alive, excluding Ciri.
15. Can I avoid killing Keira Metz?
Yes, you can avoid killing Keira. Treat her with respect and understanding. When she tells Geralt that she’s going to Radovid, convince her that it’s suicide and suggest that she go to Kaer Morhen instead.