Escape Maleshov Castle with Sir Hans Capon in KCD2’s Taking French Leave Quest

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In the sequel to Kingdom Come: Deliverance, titled Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, the primary quest “French Leave” commences following the completion of the “Via Argentum” mission, during which players share their discoveries with Christian of Pisek. Upon hearing this information, Christian instructs Henry to go to the Ruthard’s palace in Kuttenberg, a move that sets him up to accuse the Mint Master, their rival.

After completing his part of the deal, Henry now has permission to consult Rosa Ruthard for directions on infiltrating the Maleshov castle, so he can rescue Sir Hans Capon. Be sure to mention the book when it comes up with Rosa, as this could lead to a future chance to court her. This extra task, “Find Rosa’s Book,” is only achievable during the “Taking French Leave” quest in KCD2.

Taking French Leave – Find The Secret Entrance To Maleshov Castle In KCD2

Before setting off to locate the hidden passageway, Henry must first converse with Hashtal to ensure that some horses are prepared for a swift exit. Since the impending operation involves stealth as its primary focus, players might want to pack the following items:

1. A dark, concealing cloak or suit
2. Quiet and reliable footwear
3. A muffler or mask to cover the mouth and nose
4. A set of stealthy gloves
5. A pair of binoculars for observing from a distance
6. A silent knife for self-defense or disarming traps
7. A small, portable flashlight with a dim light setting
8. A map or blueprint of the area, if available
9. Extra ammunition or projectiles, depending on the equipment used
10. Rations and water supplies, as needed for extended periods of stealth operations

  • A dark and quiet stealth outfit.
  • Plenty of lockpicks.
  • to help with thievery.
  • A spade.

Furthermore, the Tight Grip perk for Strength is beneficial since it simplifies the process of disabling guards. A substantial Thievery stat and any perks that aid in lockpicking can also prove useful.

It’s also best to search for the secret tunnel during daylight hours.

The Chapel Ruins

After everyone is prepared, proceed to the marker for the Taking French Leave quest. At the most southern end of the search zone, you’ll spot an ancient chapel window. Peer through it and advance towards the ruins it indicates.

At the site of the ruins, players will discover both a key and a shovel tucked away in the southwestern area. To locate the initial cross, simply head east and then descend into a slight depression. You’ll find it nestled underneath a crumbling stone archway.

Follow The Crosses

After spotting the initial intersection, follow the direction it indicates, which is northward. You’ll get to the second intersection in roughly 10 seconds, and it’s located slightly to the right of a tree covered with moss.

After approximately 6 seconds of running uphill, once level ground is attained, a cue will emerge, encouraging you to ‘Check your surroundings‘.

Digging The Tunnel

On your right, you’ll find a substantial tree with a stone carved with a cross at its foot. Approach the stone and then gradually move backwards while keeping your gaze fixed on the ground.

If players possess a shovel in their items, they will see an opportunity to begin excavating. Following excavation, proceed through the concealed passageway until you arrive at your destination.

Taking French Leave – How To Find Sir Hans Capon In Maleshov Castle In KCD2

Once you make your way into Maleshov castle through the tunnel, there will be an automatic scene (or cinematic) that plays out, featuring Otto von Bergow, Markvart von Aulitz, and Eric exiting.

The objective here is to gain access to the towering structure, where Sir Hans is currently detained. It’s crucial to recall that Rosa has kindly shared detailed blueprints for every floor in the tower. You can find these plans within your inventory for easy reference.

Getting Keys For The Tower

To begin, it’s important to obtain keys for Maleshov’s tower, and if possible, other doors as well. Starting from where Henry appears, take the stairs and move in a rightward direction. Subsequently, approach the wooden structure stealthily and surprise Cook Drahomira (a woman you know) from behind with a knockout blow.

You could try pickpocketing her for a completely non-violent playthrough, but it’s riskier.

Players should be capable of finding three distinct keys from her, which are essential for unlocking Maleshov’s areas. Note that guards may possess some keys too, like a set for accessing the tower, but they won’t hold the crucial key you need.

Getting Into Maleshov’s Tower

Exiting from this timber structure, players need to proceed towards the fortified walkway, taking a leisurely route around the imposing circular tower. Be prepared to pause and let guards pass or stealthily bypass them.

Eventually, you should reach a wooden staircase leading up to the tower. The will open the door.

Find Rosa’s Book Inside Maleshov’s Tower

Upon entering, I’d instinctively make my way up the staircase, but beware! Two guards may be engaged in conversation with a lady, potentially barring my path. If so, it would be wise to hide in the cozy pantry until they descend and take their seats around the table.

Upon ascending to the next level, those seeking Rosa’s book are advised to enter the room to your left. Knock out Lady Ofka, and you’ll find the book with a red cover by the window. It’s titled “The Red Book”. If players only possess a key from the guard, they should obtain another key from Lady Ofka.

Finding Sir Hans Capon

Finally, players should climb the stairs all the way up to the top floor and look for the door on the left. If they have the key, it will open effortlessly. However, if they don’t have one, they’ll need to pick the lock, but be aware that it has a high level of difficulty.

This will trigger a cutscene with Sir Hans Capon and a French knight.

Taking French Leave – Escaping Maleshov Castle In KCD2

Henry, Hans, and Vauquelin Brabant must now find a way to leave Maleshov castle, but Hans is suffering from a fear of confined spaces (claustrophobia) and prefers not to escape via the narrow underground tunnel that Henry used to enter the castle.

An alternative strategy involves surprising Sir Hans by approaching him unseen from behind, then making a swift exit via the concealed passageway, just as we had arranged beforehand.

Obtaining Weapons For The Capon & Brabant

Sir Hans and his newly made French friend won’t depart until Henry fetches some weapons for them. If the players haven’t taken any yet, there are swords lying on the floor beneath.

There appears to be an ample number of individuals who ought to remain unconscious in the room where Lady Ofka was last seen, and there’s also one hidden away in a nearby chest.

Out The Loud Way Or Quiet Way

Following the equipping of Hans and Brabant, players will encounter a conversation prompt. The choice lies between rushing towards the horses in unison or exploring the path independently for reconnaissance.

As a thrill-seeker eagerly charging towards the horses, be prepared for a confrontation unless you swiftly take out any guards blocking your path first. Once we’ve successfully made it to the horses, it’ll be Henry’s turn to approach the main gate and unlock it.

If Hans or Vauquelin Brabant dies, it will count as a game-over!

If players opt to survey the path ahead, they might either take out guards stealthily or slip by them unnoticed. Upon reaching the horses, once the guard is either eliminated or away on his duties, light your torch as a signal for Capon and Brabant. Once they’ve safely arrived, you can then unbolt the main gate.

Finishing The Quest

Players should team up with their co-escapers from this point onwards. If they manage to stay together, they will encounter familiar faces from Rattay, leading to a series of cinematic scenes.

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2025-02-24 21:38