The Nilfgaardian Connection - The Witcher 3

After selecting the Hanged Man’s Tree in Velen to fast travel, follow the quest marker to the southwest and head into the inn. Speak to the patrons and the innkeeper. Your drink will be interrupted by some of the baron’s men. You can choose to kill them, intimidate them by revealing your a Witcher, or attempt to befriend them by buying them a drink. This decision won’t block anything in the game, but letting them live does make the Bloody Baron quest easier. Once that has concluded, speak to the innkeeper to continue and prepare to head to Heatherton.

When you reach Heatherton, you will face rabid dogs, defeat them with your sword and continue. Speak to the survivor and explore.

On your minimap, there will be a small shack; find a key on the body within and activate your Witcher Senses. There will be a large rug in the next room, with your Witcher Senses on; you will find a trap door underneath. Use the newly acquired key on it. Enter the cellar and pull the lit candle on the wall to reveal a hidden compartment. The contents will provide two new paths for Geralt, starting with either Hunting a Witch or Bloody Baron. There are no consequences for choosing one over the other, as both paths will have to be completed eventually.