Contract: Shrieker is a Monster Hunt Side Quest in Velen. A large beast has been terrorizing the populace of Crow's Perch, and it's up to Geralt to figure out just what this mysterious "Shrieker" is.

Shrieker Walkthrough

Begin by speaking to Chet in Crow's Perch. You'll find that this mysterious monster killed the last man to try and best it, and it's not a creature to be trifled with. The base rate for this contract is 235 gold, but if you're feeling pressed for cash you can haggle for up to 293. Factoring in annoyance levels and all, it's best to try and haggle for 250 - 270.

You'll also learn that the man who was killed had a son - one that Chet has taken in since his death, and witnessed the death of his father. You can find little Symko on the other side of the house, still distraught over his father's death. Ask him to recount what he knows, and either leave him be or kindly calm him with the Axii Sign.

Now it's time to head to the site of the attack, just to the East of Crow's Perch, along the side of the moat. The body is long gone, but Symko's dog's corpse still remains. Search it for clues with your Witcher Sense, then begin tracking the footprints North along the moat. Eventually you will reach a cave and Geralt will deduce the identity of this beast: A Cockatrice.

The Shrieker, like other cockatrices, is vulnerable to both Draconid Oil and Grapeshot Bombs. Consider making these items, or trying to find the recipes and make some additional Potions for the fight.

Once you are ready, enter the cave to find that the Shrieker is hiding above in another part of the cave. You can flush it out with a bomb (best not to use the Grapeshot as you'll need it for the main fight).

Tossing a bomb up on the ledge will cause it to flee, so race outside and call your horse. Track it's flight up North to a nearby field, where it will eventually land.

The battle itself will be largely reminiscent of the Griffin fight. The Shrieker will alternate between sweeping its winged arms from the sides, and lunge with its beak. With this in mind, try to stay to the sides or behind as much as you can. You can also back off to get it to lunge a great distance, whereupon you can dodge behind it to get some free attacks.

As it takes more damage, it will sometimes take to the air, either to slam down hard, or to do a flyby and attack while sweeping. Dodge the aerial slam, or hit it with a crossbow bolt as it flies in to send it crashing down. A blast from the Aard sign will also stun it.

When the Shrieker falls, cut off its head and ride back to Crow's Perch to collect your reward (or let Chet keep the money for the boy if you are feeling generous).