Embarking on the side quests in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2* can significantly enhance your understanding of the game's rich cast of characters. One such intriguing quest is *Bad Blood*, which offers a deep dive into the lives of Bozhena and her daughter Pavlena. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to start and complete this quest.
As you explore the expansive world of *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, you'll first need to engage in the quest to find Mutt. Your journey will lead you to a clearing near Bozhena’s hut, where Henry muses about checking in with Bozhena. Head to her hut and inquire about Mutt. Bozhena will reveal that her daughter Pavlena is missing. Agree to assist her, and the *Bad Blood* quest will be added to your journal.
Begin by traveling to Troskowitz to speak with Bailiff Thrush, followed by a conversation with Innkeeper Betty at the local tavern. These interactions will shed light on Bozhena and Pavlena's past, explaining their ostracism from the village. Next, head to the designated area to talk to the woodcutters. Find Woodcutter Dushko, who will direct you to Roman’s house. Be prepared to lockpick the door, so save your game beforehand.
Inside Roman’s house, examine Pavlena’s basket, then speak with Dushko again for more clues. He'll point you towards a clearing near Roman’s house, a spot favored by the couple.
From Roman’s house, follow the objective marker down the hill towards the stream, then turn left at the two large boulders. You'll discover a trail of blood leading to Roman’s lifeless body. Continue your investigation by talking to Hogherd Hugo, then return to the farm in Troskowitz and converse with Hired Hand Straw. Successfully pass the dialogue check with Straw to uncover details about Jakesh and the true events involving Roman and Pavlena.
You can also revisit Thrush to decide Straw's fate. After concluding your discussions, proceed to the rocks just south of Zhelejov to further your investigation.
Navigate the objective area until you find a path near a large boulder. Ascend the ladder to encounter Ota and Pavlena. With sufficient Charisma, select the following dialogue options to persuade Ota to release Pavlena: "What’s your name?", "Let her go and I’ll let you go.", and "I’ll put in a good word for you with His Lordship." Despite your efforts, Pavlena will kill Ota. After speaking with her, return to Bozhena together. Bozhena will then request that you deal with Jakesh.
For the quest's final step, you must decide whether to kill Jakesh or broker peace. Locate Jakesh at his child’s grave on the farm. You can either end his life or engage in dialogue to resolve the conflict peacefully. Alternatively, you can choose to kill Bozhena instead, though this will alter the quest's outcome. In my playthrough, I opted to kill Jakesh and reported back to Bozhena for a reward.
Choosing to kill Jakesh will lower your reputation in Troskowitz but significantly boost your standing with Bozhena and Pavlena. You'll also unlock new dialogue options with Pavlena and receive a necklace she received from Roman as a reward.
Conversely, if you spare Jakesh and facilitate peace, he will offer you 100 groschen. You can choose to keep this sum or share it with Bozhena, who will then split the reward with you. This decision also allows Bozhena and Pavlena to reintegrate into the community.
Completing the *Bad Blood* quest in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2* offers a rewarding experience, deepening your connection with the game's characters. For more tips and insights into the game, including how to find the Hermit's sword and Ventza's treasure, be sure to check out The Escapist.