You can start this quest in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl after you meet the main character of the side mission The Side Hustle. Below, we will explain the steps you need to take to successfully free the captured stalkers, as well as provide information about the location of a new artifact that can be found during the quest.
Head to the Shevchenko location, southeast of the Icarus base, where you will find the trader Beard. Approach him and talk to him to learn all the details of the quest and start it.
On the way to the new marker, you can find the Stone Blood artifact near the corpse of a stalker nicknamed Sergo Outcast. This artifact is widespread in the Zone as it forms in gravitational anomalies.
Upon reaching the bandit camp, talk to them, after which the hero will be invited inside. If you decide not to talk to the leader nicknamed Hudruk, you will have to eliminate all the bandits. However, if you manage to negotiate about the show, you will be invited to participate in a shooting range, where you will need to shoot apples placed on the heads of captured allies within five seconds.
Successfully completing the quest, return to Beard with the group of stalkers. If you managed to free the stalkers and eliminate the bandits, you will receive 4049 coupons, as well as an additional 675 coupons for the heads of the enemies.