Does Ciri become empress if you kill Radovid?

The Path to Empress: What Happens When Radovid Falls

In The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the choices we make have a profound impact on the world around us. One of the most significant decisions we must make is regarding the fate of Ciri, the titular protagonist. In this article, we’ll explore what happens when Radovid is killed, and whether this affects Ciri’s chance to become the Empress of Nilfgaard.

The Best (or Worst) Ending?

Radovid’s fall marks the beginning of the "best" ending, a phrase that’s intentionally tongue-in-cheek due to the morally ambiguous nature of the game. According to the article "What Happens if You Kill Radovid?" Radovid will rise to power after killing him, ruling with an iron fist and holding Nilfgaard as his own. This can’t be good for anyone involved.

Ciri’s Path to Empress

Now, let’s consider the impact of killing Radovid on Ciri’s path to becoming the Empress of Nilfgaard. In a related article, "Can Ciri become Empress?", we learn that if Ciri is taken to Emhyr before the events leading up to killing Radovid, she becomes a Witcher, making it difficult for her to assume the throne. However, if she’s not taken to Emhyr and you help Nilfgaardians win the war (both Radovid and Dijkstra are killed), Ciri can own most of the north, the witch hunts will cease, and she can ultimately become the Empress.

Radovid’s Animosity Towards Philippa Eilhart

Radovid’s hatred towards Philippa Eilhart, revealed in the article "Why Radovid hates Philippa?", stems from his father being secretly assassinated by an unknown elf at Philippa’s behest. This animosity plays a crucial role in shaping Radovid’s actions and his conflict with Ciri, particularly if you choose to help Nilfgaard.

Ciri’s Power and the Prophecy

The elves believe Ciri’s child must be born of true love, not forced sex. If Ciri is taken against her will, the prophecy is broken, and Emhyr lets her go in the article "Why does Emir let Ciri go?". With Ciri’s freedom intact, she can potentially rule as Empress, further reinforcing the idea that Ciri’s path to becoming the Empress is rooted in her own agency.

The Consequences of Ciri’s Choices

After killing Radovid and embracing her destiny, Ciri takes the name Falka, marking the end of her previous persona and the beginning of her reign as Empress.

Here’s a summary table illustrating the key points discussed in this article:

In conclusion, the fate of Radovid has a significant impact on Ciri’s ability to become the Empress of Nilfgaard. Whether Radovid is killed, helping Nilfgaardians win the war and owning the north, Ciri’s path to empress is shaped by the choices we make. We’re left with a choice to ponder: what truly makes a leader, Ciri’s power or Radovid’s ambition? The decision is ours to make in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.

Remember, the choices are difficult, and the results may be far-reaching and profound.

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