Contract: Lord of the Wood

Witcher contract Novigrad suggested level 25

From the journal

While traversing the woods outside Novigrad, Geralt came across some monster tracks that struck him as unusual. He decided it was worth his time to see what sort of beast was prowling around this close to the North's great metropolis.

A certain halfling named Brean Hotsch had hung a notice stating he was in need of a professional monster slayer. Geralt decided to see what was the matter.

After a detailed investigation of the shrubbery and thicketry lining the forest floor (what exactly he looks for during such investigations is a complete mystery to me - I see nothing but endless chances to tear one's hose), Geralt concluded he was tracking a leshen. In order to defeat this elusive monster, he would first need to provoke it into attacking him. That's right, dear reader: he planned to deliberately provoke a leshen - the very thought sends shivers down my spine.

Once Geralt had defeated the leshen, the halfling paid up without making any fuss. There's no denying it: Brean Hotsch proved himself an honorable individual.

Values from the game files of The Witcher 3 Remastered (version 5.0.0.1041720), as of 2026-09-30. Not every value has been checked in game.

Objectives

  1. Talk to Brean Hotsch.
  2. Lure the leshen out by destroying its totem.
  3. Kill the leshen.
  4. Take a trophy.
  5. Check the nearest notice board.
  6. Collect your reward from Brean Hotsch.
  7. Use your Witcher Senses to follow the sounds and find the leshen's totem.
  8. Investigate the site of the monster's attack.
  9. Talk to witnesses.
  10. Find the woodcutter's hut where Hotsch is staying.
  11. Find the site of the attack using your Witcher Senses.
  12. Use your Witcher Senses to follow the wagon tracks to where the monster attacked.