Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 – Is It Worth Accepting Erik’s Challenge?

After successfully navigating the perilous escape from the Italian Court during the Italian Job quest, Kubyenka makes his way back to Suchdol. Freed by Erik, he carries a message for Henry, setting the stage for a confrontation fueled by vengeance following the death of Istvan Toth. This pivotal moment leads into the Civitas Pragensis main quest.

The plot thickens as Erik awaits in the now-abandoned camp used by King Sigismund’s army. However, players must ponder a crucial question: could this be a trap? When approached with Erik’s challenge for a duel, players face a decision: whether to accept or decline. To aid in their choice, numerous characters in Suchdol can offer their insights and opinions.

Why You Might Consider Rejecting Erik’s Duel

There are several compelling reasons to avoid accepting Erik’s challenge, both from a role-playing and gameplay perspective:

Musa has just risked his life to save Henry and is now injured.
Henry is surrounded by people in Suchdol who care deeply for him.
The recent death of Adder requires Henry’s presence for support and consolation.
Henry might still be injured from his ordeal at the Italian Court, making combat more difficult.
Suchdol is in need of defenders, and engaging in a duel could leave it vulnerable.
Repairing Henry’s armor and weapons post-fight could be problematic.
Henry’s true target is Markvart von Aulitz, not Erik.
Although it is not a trap, Henry must be cautious and return swiftly.
No loot is rewarded for the duel, a fact unbeknownst to Henry at the outset.

If players decide against engaging Erik, they should seek counsel from Jan Zizka. However, caution is advised as this will advance the narrative.

Arguments for Accepting Erik’s Duel

Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 - Erik & Henry Duel

Conversely, players may find several strong arguments for accepting Erik’s duel as part of the Civitas Pragensis quest:

Henry empathizes with Erik’s drive for revenge.
If players previously killed Istvan Toth without engaging in a duel, accepting this duel can reaffirm Henry’s honor.
Long-time players from the first game may feel compelled to settle the score with Erik.
While there is no trap, players need to move quickly.
Henry will have a chance to heal before continuing the story.
Participating in the duel provides valuable combat experience to enhance Henry’s skills.
This duel is among the most exhilarating in KCD2.

How to Accept Erik’s Duel and Defeat Him

For players opting to confront Erik, ensuring that they are fully equipped with their highest quality weapons and armor is essential, as preparation time is limited.

Once ready, head to the main gate of Suchdol’s outer bailey and inform the guard of your intention to leave, triggering a cutscene. Keep the following strategies in mind to overcome Erik in KCD2, although the fight promises to be challenging:

Consider taunting Erik pre-duel to undermine his confidence.
Utilize heavy weaponry like a mace, as Erik sports full plate armor.
Incorporate feints and combinations; simple attacks may not suffice against Erik’s defenses.

Following the duel, Henry will return to Suchdol, marking the beginning of the So It Begins quest.

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