Introduction
The world of The Witcher is a dangerous place, filled with grotesque monsters, political intrigue, and moral dilemmas. To survive as Geralt of Rivia, the legendary witcher, you’ll need more than just a sharp sword and quick reflexes. You’ll also need the best possible armor. Crafting mastercrafted armor is crucial for tackling the game’s toughest challenges, and the journey begins with a humble quest in the war-torn region of Velen. The “Velen Master Armorer” quest is your gateway to unlocking top-tier armor sets, and it all starts with a gruff, yet talented, armorer named Fergus Graem.
This guide will walk you through every step of the “Velen Master Armorer” quest, from the initial encounter with Fergus to the moment you can finally commission him to forge the best armor available. We’ll cover the prerequisites, the challenges you’ll face, the rewards you’ll reap, and offer valuable tips to ensure your success. Prepare to embark on a journey that will transform you from a mere monster hunter into a legend clad in unparalleled protection.
Preparing for the Craft
Before you set off to find a master armorer, you need to be aware of a few things. While there isn’t a specific level requirement to start the “Velen Master Armorer” quest, having some coin in your pouch will be beneficial. The quest revolves around Fergus Graem, and he’s not exactly running a charity. You can find Fergus in Blackbough, a small village nestled in the heart of Velen’s swampy lands. Blackbough itself isn’t particularly noteworthy, but it serves as a convenient fast travel point for accessing Fergus’s workshop.
Initiating the quest is straightforward. Simply approach Fergus and engage in conversation. He’ll be lamenting his lack of proper tools, essential for crafting high-quality armor. He’ll explain that he needs specific tools that are difficult to acquire in Velen. This conversation is your cue to offer your assistance, officially starting the “Velen Master Armorer” quest.
The Skellige Expedition
Fergus’s primary problem lies in the absence of proper tools. He needs a particular set of tools originating from Skellige, the rugged archipelago known for its skilled artisans and seafaring culture. This means you’ll be setting sail, or fast traveling, to the chilly northern isles.
Your destination in Skellige is Kaer Trolde Harbor, the bustling port town located on the main island of Ard Skellig. Once there, you need to locate a specific merchant who deals in rare and specialized tools. Look for a man with a merchant symbol above his head, usually found near the docks. Talk to the merchant and inquire about the Skellige armorer’s tools. He’ll confirm that he has them, but acquiring them won’t be free.
You’ll be presented with a few options to obtain the tools. The most straightforward method is to simply purchase them. Be prepared to spend a decent amount of Crowns. Alternatively, if you’ve invested in the Axii sign, you can attempt to persuade the merchant to lower his price or even give you the tools outright. A successful Axii application will save you some money and provide a small sense of satisfaction. Once you have the tools in your possession, it’s time to return to Velen.
Back to Blackbough
Head back to Blackbough and speak to Fergus. Upon presenting him with the tools, he will be ecstatic. However, this is where the quest can branch slightly, leading to an optional, but potentially rewarding, encounter.
A Monster Problem
After giving Fergus the tools, he will ask for some time to adjust to the new equipment. You can either wait a day in-game or ask him about the quality of his work. Depending on your conversation choice, Fergus might need your assistance with a monster problem. This optional path opens up when you inquire about the quality of the armor he can now produce. He’ll hesitantly admit that a Fiend has been harassing the local area, disrupting his work and endangering the villagers.
If you agree to help Fergus deal with the Fiend, you’ll need to track the beast. The Fiend is a formidable opponent, a hulking monster known for its strength and resistance to conventional attacks. It’s crucial to prepare accordingly before engaging it. Consider applying beast oil to your silver sword to inflict extra damage. Bombs such as Grapeshot or Devil’s Puffball can also be effective, especially if you can hit the Fiend with them while it’s vulnerable.
During the fight, focus on dodging the Fiend’s attacks and exploiting its weaknesses. The Fiend is vulnerable to fire, so Igni is a useful sign to employ. Keep your distance when possible, as the Fiend’s melee attacks can be devastating. Use Quen to shield yourself from incoming blows. Be patient and methodical, and you’ll eventually bring the beast down.
Once the Fiend is defeated, return to Fergus with news of your success. He’ll be grateful for your assistance, further solidifying your relationship and unlocking additional dialogue options.
The Reward
The “Velen Master Armorer” quest offers several rewards, the most significant of which is access to Fergus Graem’s master armorer services. Completing the quest opens up the opportunity to commission Fergus to craft mastercrafted armor, which is some of the best armor available in the game.
You’ll also receive experience points for completing the quest, which will help you level up and improve your combat skills. Additionally, you’ll likely receive a monetary reward from Fergus as a token of his appreciation. Depending on whether or not you chose to help with the Fiend, the satisfaction of helping a villager in need can also be considered a reward.
Beyond the tangible rewards, completing this quest has a lasting impact on your gameplay experience. Having access to a master armorer significantly enhances your ability to craft and upgrade your armor, making you a more resilient and formidable witcher.
Tips for the Road
Before embarking on the “Velen Master Armorer” quest, here are a few tips to increase your chances of success:
- Save your Crowns: The trip to Skellige and purchasing the tools can be expensive, so ensure you have enough money saved up beforehand. Sell any unnecessary items or complete Witcher contracts to bolster your funds.
- Invest in Axii: Having a high Axii skill can save you money when dealing with the Skellige merchant.
- Prepare for the Fiend (if applicable): If you choose to fight the Fiend, research its weaknesses and prepare your gear accordingly. Beast oil, fire-based attacks, and dodging skills are essential.
A Craft Perfected
The “Velen Master Armorer” quest is more than just a simple fetch quest; it’s the key to unlocking superior armor crafting in The Witcher It establishes a valuable connection with Fergus Graem, a skilled artisan who can significantly enhance your combat prowess. By completing this quest, you not only gain access to mastercrafted armor but also contribute to the well-being of the villagers in Velen. This is a quest that is well worth the effort. Embark on this quest, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a legendary witcher clad in the finest armor the Northern Kingdoms have to offer, ready to face any monster or challenge that comes your way. The rewards are plentiful, and the journey itself is a rewarding experience, adding another layer of depth to the immersive world of The Witcher.
