DA Fan gives TW3 a shot: Text Based Let's Play

Meanwhile Dandelion was in Oxenfurt, he had been pulled in by Dijkstra for questioning, but he claimed he didn't know where Geralt was, and he didn't tell him about Rience's attack. But Dijkstra had heard about it from other sources.
He wanted to get a message to Geralt, but was being followed everywhere by Dijkstra's men, so he thought he could loose them inside the university. In one of the lecture halls he came upon Shani, an young medical student and asked her to deliver the message to Geralt.
She was excited by the chance to meet a real witcher and agreed straight away. Dandelion made a run for the door to pick up the tail and Shani walked off in the other direction.
Dandelion eventually lost the tail by slipping though a hole in the wall covered with ivy he had made years earlier while a student there.
He climbed over fences and up onto rooftops and made his way across town to Geralts first floor window at the inn. He knocked on the window and Geralt said wait, don't come in, but he opened it and climbed in anyway. Geralt and Shani were at it on the floor, he got up and grabbed his pants and then an owl flew through the window and turned into woman. She stood there eyes fixed on the lovely Shani, aren't you going to introduce us Dandelion?
Geralt of Rivia. Shani of Medicine. And the owl which so craftily flew in my tracks is no owl, but Philippa Eilhart from the Council of Mages and the pride of the court of Tretogor.
What I've come about is the sole concern of Geralt of Rivia, however to ask anyone to leave...
I can leave said Shani hesitantly.
You can't muttered Geralt. No one can until the situation is made clear, isn't that so my lady?
Philippa to you, smiled the sorceress, lets throw formality aside, no ones presence bothers me. Astonishes me maybe, our mutual friend says you are studying medicine, what year my dear?
Third says Shani, pulling the sheet up in front of herself.
So you would be seventeen, what a beautiful age. Yennefer would give a lot to be that age again. What do you reckon Geralt? because I'll ask her when I next see her.
Geralt gave a nasty smile. I'm sure you will, and no doubt follow up with a full commentary. I've no doubt it will amuse you to no end. Now get to the point.
Quite right, Dijkstra would like to find the location of a certain girl, he is under orders of the King, and so I'm sure he will be very insistent that you reveal this place to him.
You say Dijkstra received these instructions from the King. And you didn't receive any? I understand you hold a prominent seat in Vizimir's council.
I do, but sometimes instead of telling the King he is making a mistake, I simply have to make it impossible for him to make a mistake. Do you understand?
The witcher confirmed with a nod. So I see, the Council of Wizards is interested in getting my ward before Vizimir, or anyone else does.
Why Philippa? What is it about my ward that makes her so very interesting?
The sorceress' eyes narrowed. Don't you know? she hissed. Do you really know so little about her?
Your not qualified to look after her Geralt, and you deny the right to others who have the qualifications.
Watch out. And guard that child damn it!
Dandelion wondered why Geralt didn't mention Yennefer, but then he guessed why.
Philippa already knew everything, and she was warning him, and the witcher understood her warning.
So enlighten me. What makes the Council of Mages and the Northern Kings want to free me from this burden of responsibility for Ciri?
What made this Rience kill three people to extract information about her? And who the hell is this Rience?
I don't know said Philippa, but like you, I would very much like to find out.
Shani cut in unexpectedly, Does this Rience have a third degree burn on his face? If so, then I know who he is, and I know where he is...

Rience was standing a few paces behind two bodyguards, who simultaneously lunged at Geralt. They were well above your normal assassins and Geralt was fighting for his life. Shani screamed, Dandelion held her back and turned her head from the fighting.
Geralt managed to defeat the two killers, but not without taking some serious wounds, he then set after Rience.
Philippa arrived and knelt beside one of the assassins, he was still breathing, she cast a spell over him and he freely gave up the name of his employer.
She drew a narrow golden stiletto and drove it through his temple.
Geralt and Rience were fighting with neither man gaining the upper hand and both falling to their knees.
Rience's master opened a portal for him and he limped through it.
Geralt dragged himself to his feet and tried to follow, but was held paralyzed by a spell from Philippa, still with the bloody dagger in her hand.
Philippa! shouted Dandelion, still holding the weeping Shani. Have you gone mad?
No, said the witcher with some effort, she is quite sane, she knew what she was doing all along, she betrayed us. Deceived us...
Calm down, you don't understand and you don't have to understand. I did what I had to do.
Your lying in a pool of blood, calm down and let Shani take care of you.
Your great causes. The end justifies the means. Geralt coughed.
I knew you wouldn't understand. Philippa disappeared.

Emyhr lost the previous war at the hill in Upper Sodden, although 100,000 took part in the battle, and 30,000 died, the Norths victory was put down to the 22 Mages, only 9 of whom survived.
Learning from the past, Emyhr and Vilgefortz devised a plan to kill the Norths top mages at the Thanedd Island convention before launching his invasion.
He also made a deal with the Elven sorceress Francesca Findabair that in return for scoia'tael help, he would give the elves their own autonomous principality and name her Queen of Dol Blathanna, in the valley of the flowers.
Tissaia de Vries, the only living Archmage, would have an anti magic dome over the convention to stop any hostilities breaking out between the mages of the apposing camps, so they planned to smuggle in Rience and a unit of the Vrihedd Brigade Scoia'tael lead by Isengrim Faoiltiana, and to take out Philippa Eilhart, Triss Merigold, Keira Metz, Sabrina Glevissig, Dethmold, and Radcliffe while they where defenseless.
Dijkstra's spies uncovered the plot and created a counter plan to grab all the mages from the spy report the night before and slap them in dimeritium shackles, then charge them with treason.
He sent a messenger to King Demavend of Aedirn to cease any border skirmishes that could be seen as a provocation to war because Emyhr had his whole army south of the Yaruga ready to attack.
Unfortunately, against Toruviel's direct order, Yaevinn killed the lone messenger without even knowing who he was.

Aretuza was on Thanedd Isle, in a bay from the city of Gors Velen.
As Yennefer and Ciri rode over the crest of the hill leading to Gors Velen, they could see a long queue of people waiting to enter the city.
The King's guards were checking everyone who wanted to enter.
Yennefer cast a spell and a mirror appeared in front of her saddle. She brushed her hair and went over her makeup.
She looked as beautiful as ever, but then she cast a spell over herself and became even more gorgeous, radiated beauty and her eyes glowed.
She said, don't say a word ugly one.
They rode past the queue and up to the gate. The guards stopped what they were doing to stare at her.
I'm Yennefer of Vengerburg she said and this is my apprentice, we are here for the convention.
Ciri pushed out her chest and sat proudly, but not a single guard had taken their eyes off Yennefer.
The man said, of course Lady Sorceress, sorry to have held you up.

Yennefer intended to remain neutral during the war.
As she had supported the Northern Kings in the past, this had made Dijkstra suspicious of her, although she wasn't on his list, he had her bank accounts monitored in case she withdrew large amounts of money before the mages meeting on Thanedd Island.
She did intend to withdraw a large amount of money to pay for Ciri's school fees, dresses, & money for Nenneke's Temple, plus traveling cash.
Her banker warned her of the trace and offered her unlimited credit in a new account from which she withdrew 30000 gold coins.
He also told her Geralt had taken out a loan for 100 gold coins and was staying at a farm 15 miles out of town.
She said I doubt that he considers me dear to him.
Ciri overheard the conversation and she hadn't seen Geralt in the last year, so while Yennefer was discussing her schooling with Tissaia de Vries and Margarita Laux-Antille, Ciri snuck out, grabbed a horse and rode to see Geralt.
He was delighted, Yennefer not so much, she was furious and knowing where Ciri would have gone, she teleported to the farm.
This was the first time Yennefer had seen Ciri and Geralt together, and she had underestimated how strong the bond between them was.
She thought Ciri would be far easier to control if she had Geralt on side.
She asked Dandelion to take Ciri inside while she spoke with Geralt.
Ciri watched through the window and the conversation got quite heated.
Yennefer explained to Geralt about Ithlinne's Prophecy, and that that was the reason everyone was after Ciri.
(The Northern Kings weren't aware of the Prophecy, the just wanted to get to her and kill her, before Emyhr could find her and marry her, gaining Cintran loyalists to Nilfgaard.)
She asked him to accompany her to the Thanedd Isle banquet the next night, though Geralt hated banquets and knew he would at best, be treated as a freak by the magicians, he thought he might be able to draw out the mage who sent Rience after Ciri and so agreed to go.

Yennefer intended to leave Ciri with Margarita while she went to the mages convention, but Tissaia de Vries asked her to bring her along.
Tissaia would be the only person in the world that Yen couldn't say no to.
When Yen was young, she had tried to commit suicide by slashing both wrists, Tissaia found her so close to death that it took all of the Archmages power to keep her alive.
Her deformities had split up her parents and caused her to be beaten as a child and she had killed both her parents because of it.
Tissaia felt sorry for her and took her under her wing, straightening her spine, removing her hunched back and other facial deformities, and took a special interest in her schooling.

For the banquet, Yennefer had Geralt dressed in a doublet so he could hardly breathe, and she was in a new black and white dress and looked even more beautiful than he had remembered her. She smelt of lilacs and gooseberries.
The banquet hall was huge, there were probably already 100 guests there and Geralt thought there would be room for three times that.
She was running through the etiquette, kiss the sorceress' on the hand, don't stand too long near the food tables, don't stand near the entrance, and don't drink too much, etc.
He said, and can I kiss you in front of these sorceress'?
She said, no.
A dark haired sorceress came up to them. Yennefer! I haven't seen you in ages.
Sabrina! Yennefer smiled so brightly that everyone except Geralt might have been fooled.
They embraced and kissed the air beside each others earrings.
Geralt bowed and kissed the hand that was offered by the sorceress.
Breathtaking bodice Sabrina. Am I right Geralt?
The sorceress' black chiffon bodice revealed everything that could be revealed, and that was quite a lot.
A carmine skirt, which fashion dictated should be cut to the thigh. Sabrina's cut however reached to the hip, and a very shapely hip it was.
Yennefer darling, I've found a wonderful new cream, it would work magic on those wrinkles. Would you like the recipe?
Thank you dear, but I don't really need it.
Ah yes, I always envied your skin back in school. Dear Gods! How many years ago was that Yen?
Yennefer pretended to greet someone off in the distance.
Sabrina on the other hand, smiled at the witcher, and with one swift move presented everything the black chiffon had been covering.
Geralt swallowed and tried his hardest not to gawk at the magnificent pink nipples.
Yennefer was smiling, but he knew her too well to be fooled. She was furious.
Oh forgive me Sabrina, I see Philippa and I must talk with her. After me Geralt.

Philippa Eilhart was accompanied by Sigismund Dijkstra.
Geralt had met him before and was somewhat thankful to meet a familiar face, someone who wasn't a magician.
But he was far from happy to see Philippa, but begrudgingly kissed her hand.
I'm happy to see you Yenna. Welcome Geralt. You both know Count Dijkstra, am I right?
Who doesn't know him. I'm glad to meet you again Count.
It's a pleasure, said the Chief of King Vizimir's secret service. Especially in such pleasant company. My deepest regards Mister Geralt.
Geralt shook the hand of the huge spy dressed in a beige doublet, rather informally unbuttoned. It was plain he felt at ease in it.
Did I see you talking with Sabrina? said Phillipa.
I did talk with her, hissed Yennefer. Did you see what she was wearing? One must have neither taste nor shame... Gods she's years older than me... It would be different if she had something worth looking at! Damn Bitch!
Was she trying to interrogate you? Everyone knows she is spying for Henselt of Kaedwen.
Really? Yennefer feigned ignorance, which was rightly excepted as a great joke.
And how are you Count?
Quite well, Vizimir's spy bowed.
Considering barely a minute ago he confessed that he'd rather the smell of burning torches and roasted meat, on a table soaked with beer and gravy, that he could bang on with his mug, to the rhythm of indecent songs, said Philippa.
Is that so? The witcher gave the spy a much warmer look.
Ah men, they don't understand anything, Philippa sighed.
Ah, she exclaimed. I see Triss over there and have and urgent matter do discuss with her.
Please forgive us Philippa, and I'm sure we will find time for chatting later Count.
I am at your service Yennefer, just give me a nod.

Triss approached and offered Geralt her hand. He ignored etiquette, pulled the sorceress into his embrace and kissed her on her peachy cheek.
You talked with Philippa and Dijkstra of Tretogor, you are of course aware of who Dijkstra is?
We are, confirmed Yennefer. Did he try and interrogate you?
He tried giggled Triss, but Philippa was a great disturbance to him. I honestly thought they were closer.
They are close Triss. Don't let out a word about you know who.
How is she? Can I see her?
If you finally decide to teach at Aretuza, you'll be able to see her everyday
Now quiet Triss, we'll discuss it tomorrow, after the Council meeting.
Geralt, bring us some wine. No not from the page, from that one down the end.
When her returned with the wine Triss had moved away, and Yennefer didn't show any interest in the wine, so he left them on the table.
I hope you weren't to harsh on her, he uttered. Yennefer's eyes glowed violet, and narrowed.
You think I don't know about you two?
If it's about that...
Yes it is about that. I've known Triss a lot longer than I have known you. We are good friends and always will be, regardless of any...incidents. She had some doubts, I've dispelled them. That is all!
Geralt?
Yes?
A moment ago you said you wanted to kiss me, does that offer still stand?
Yes.
Yennefer put on a display for Triss, Philippa Eilhart winked at Geralt and pretended to clap.
Yennefer said, I have to go and talk with some people, don't do anything to bring me shame.
Once she had gone, the witcher dispensed with formalities and unbuttoned his doublet, drunk down both goblets, and tried to make do with the tiny portions of food.
Geralt.
Count.
Skip the titles, I'm no Count. The mages call me that because they don't like the idea of talking with a common plebe.
Well how do you fare with impressing everyone and pretending to have fun?
I don't need to pretend anything. I'm not on duty.
Well that is interesting, said the spy, and it confirms what I had thought of you, that you are unique and exceptional.
Because rest assured, everyone else here is on duty.
Just as I feared. As in, I'm completely out of place.
Oh and by the way, thankyou for dealing with the Michelet brothers in Oxenfurt.
I sure had a belly laugh when the young red headed medic, called in to examine the bodies, assured me that the injuries were caused by a large scythe, arched edgewise.
It's a pity you didn't contact the Mayor afterwards, there was a reward for them, dead or alive. A considerable sum.
I had to leave in a hurry, but I'm sure you know that. You know everything.
Let's not exaggerate, grinned the spy. Surely not everything. Besides where would I learn of it?
From Philippa Eilhart's mouth for one, and this hall it seems doesn't lack in secrets.
The whole of Aretuza is one big secret Geralt. Surely you've noticed?
I don't understand.
I believe it. I don't understand either, but I truly wish to. Ah, but you probably know everything already, from your charming Yennefer of Vengerberg that is. Ah, to think there was a time when I too learnt things from the charming Yennefer.
And Vilgefortz, he took great care not to omit a single spy. Why would Vilgefortz need to gather all the royal spys on one plate I wonder?
I have no idea. And I don't care.
Then let me make you a wager. Dijkstra raised his fork with an octopus on it.
I'm betting that within the next hour, Vilgefortz will ask to talk with you, and he will prove to you that you are not impartial, and are in fact on his plate. If I'm wrong, I'll eat this shit in full view, tentacles and all.
Excuse me Count, thankyou for the chat.

The witcher noticed Sabrina Glevissig talking with a redhead in a white skirt with a transparent top, it had embroideries over the nipples which Geralt notice covered and revealed alternatively.
They spoke in Elder Speech, although they weren't looking at him, with his finely tuned witcher's hearing he could tell they were talking about him.
...with Yennefer? Are you kidding me Sabrina?
Not at all, it's been going on for years...how can he stand that harpy.
What's so surprising? She casts a charm spell on him. How many times have I done that myself?
She hellishly possessive of him. Little Merigold just smiled at him and the hag cursed and chased her off.
She's talking with Francesca, but she doesn't take her eyes off him.
She's scared, giggled the redhead, scared well take him away from her, if only for one night.
Shall we give it a try? The mans attractive.
You want to seduce him? That would be tactless.
Hmmm, I suppose you right agreed Marti. But what if he came up to us with a proposition?
Then I would jump in the blink of an eye, even if we had to do it on a rock.
Me too giggled Marti, even on a hedgehog.
The witcher smiled, and hid his face behind a plate of shrimp and cabbage leaves.
Philippa Eilhart slid her arm under Geralt's, winked and unashamedly pressing herself into Geralt's side.
That, she said is Dorregaray, a spy for King Ethain of Cideris. Stay vigilant.
And Sabrina Glevissig, she's spying for King Henselt of Kaedwen.
I know, you told me before. And the redhead, her friend?
Her hair is dyed Geralt. Don't you have eyes? That's Marti Sodergren.
And whom is she spying for?
Philippa laughed, flashing white teeth between spicy red lips. Marti has no interest in politics.
Outrageous. I was under the impression everyone here is a spy.
Many are, the sorceress winked. But not all, Marti is a healer and a nymphomaniac, that keeps her busy.
Now, Geralt smiled innocently, this is where you tell me something is up, and I need to shed my neutrality and make a choice.
You'll propose a wager, but I can't even imagine what my prize would be if I win.
Philippa was silent for a long time, not taking her eyes off the witcher's face.
I should have known, Dijkstra lost it and made you an offer, even though I told him you had contempt for spies.
I didn't disclose to you the identity of Rience's master back then. I let him escape. Oh, how mad at me you were...
That's an understatement.
Then I shall make amends. I'll give you Rience tomorrow. Ah Ah, don't interrupt, don't made silly faces. This is not a wager, it's a promise. And I keep my promises. No questions, wait until tomorrow. Now eat some caviar and we'll talk trivial talk.
There is no caviar.
Give me a moment. She moved her hand and a bowl immediately filled with roe of the endangered lake sturgeon.
The witcher smiled. Can you satisfy hunger with an illusion?
No, but it is enough for a craving, try some.
Hmmm, indeed, more tasty than the real thing.
I could conjure up an orgasm too.
Before the witcher caught his breath, a slim sorceress with long fair hair approached.
Her transparent tulle bodice not hiding the tiniest details of her breasts.
Forgive me, but I must interrupt your flirting Philippa, Radcliffe and Dethmold say it's urgent.
Then I must go, we will flirt another time Geralt.
Aha! Geralt. Yennefer's witcher. I've been watching you and wondering who the hell you might be. I was truly bothered by it.
I know the feeling he smiled, I'm experiencing it right now.
Oh excuse me. I'm Kiera Metz. Oh, it's caviar!
Careful, it's an illusion.
Devil take it, your right. Who would be so tactless? You? You can cast illusions of the forth degree? You?
Me, he lied, never stopping his smile. I'm a master magician, pretending to be a witcher. Did you really believe that Yennefer would fall for a simple witcher?
Kiera Metz stared him in the eyes scowling.
Would you like some wine? he offered after an uncomfortable silence. He feared his joke wasn't received well.
No thankyou... colleague magician, I don't drink. I cannot I'm about to get pregnant tonight.
With whom? asked the passing dyed haired friend of Sabrina Glevissid, dressed in the transparent geogette bodice with strategically placed embroideries. With whom? she repeated, fluttering her eyelashes.
Keira turned. What business is it of yours?
None at all. Won't you introduce me to your companion?
With displeasure, but I know I won't get rid of you otherwise. Geralt, this is Marti Sodergren. A healer who specializes in aphrodisiacs.
Must we speak of business? Oh you left some caviar for me, how kind.
Careful, the witcher and Keira spoke in unison. It's an illusion.
Indeed! Marti bent, wrinkling her nose, Philippa Eilhart, who else would have the audacity? What a shrew. Did you know that she's spying for Vizimir of Redania?
And she's a nymphomaniac? risked the witcher. Marti and Keira snorted at the same time.
She is, but if you were counting on it when you were coming on to her, then you have been misled.
Men don't figure in Philippa's preferences any more.
Or maybe your a woman? Keira pursed her lips. Maybe your only pretending to be a man, colleague master magician?
You know Marti, he confessed a moment ago that he likes to pretend.
He likes to and he does, Marti smiled maliciously. Right Geralt? Not long ago I saw you pretending to have bad hearing, and not to know Elder Speech.
He has many flaws said Yennefer, possessively clutching his arm. He is nothing but flaws. Your wasting your time girls.
It seems so. said Marti still grinning.
Uff, he sighed once they left, Thankyou Yen, great timing.
Very sincere witcher. In this hall there is a total of eleven sorceress' with their tits hanging out. I leave you for ten minutes and catch you talking to two of them...
...And your eating an illusion, she added.

Oh, Geralt come. There's an opportunity to introduce you to people who are of worth.
Is one of those people Vilgefortz?
How curious, the sorceress squinted her eyes, that it's him you're asking about.
Yes, Vilgefortz asked to meet with you. I must warn you that his talk may appear light-hearted, but don't let him fool you. Vilgefortz is an experienced and intelligent player.
I don't know what he wants from you, but stay vigilant.
I doubt this experienced player of yours will be able to surprise me.
Not after the things I gone through tonight. I've been apprehended by spies. I've been fed non-existent caviar.
Nymphomaniacs with no interest in men have doubted my manhood, threatened me with rape on a hedgehog, pregnancy and even an orgasm of the kind that requires no movement, Ugh...
Have you been drinking?
Only a bit of white wine from Cidaris. But it was probably laced with aphrodisiac.
Yen? After my talk with Vilgefortz can we return to Loxia?
We won't go back to Loxia.
What?
I want you to spend the night in Aretuza. With me. Aphrodisiac, you say? In the wine?
Hmmm, interesting...

Oh my, Oh my she sighed Yennefer, stretching out on the bed with her thighs apart, Oh my it's been so long since I've made love this way... So very long.
Geralt didn't reply. Firstly, because he feared the hidden provocation in her statement.
Secondly, because he didn't want the words to wipe the taste of her pleasure from his lips.
It's been so long since I've made love with a man who would profess his love for me, and whom I would love back, she murmured after a while, once it became clear that the witcher was going to fall for her trick.
I've almost forgotten what it feels like. Oh my, Oh my.
She arched her back even more, stretching her arms and clutching at the corners of the pillow, and the sight of her breasts in the moonlight sent a shiver down his spine. He embraced her and then lay motionless. silent and still in the afterglow.
Geralt?
Yes Yen?
Tell me about your talk with Vilgefortz.
About the talk with Vilgefortz? Now? I'll tell you in the morning.
Now, please...

Have you fallen asleep Geralt? urged Yennefer.
He stared at a little cabinet in the corner of the room, a plump rag doll in a frilly dress, rumpled by excessive hugging. The dolls button eyes stared back at him and he turned his gaze away.
You were about to tell me of your talk with Vilgefortz.
Once we entered the cloister, he began, That girl with the...
Lydia van Bredevoort. Vilgefortz's assistant.
Yes right, you've mentioned it. The person of no importance. Well said person of no importance stopped, looked at him and asked something. Through the use of telepathy.
It wasn't a breach. Lydia cannot use her voice.
I thought so, because Vilgefortz answered aloud. He said...

(Then it goes on and on for 30 odd pages about the history of the world and it ends with vilgefortz wanting Ciri.)
The witcher's eye narrowed.
What do you want from the child?
There is only one way you can find that out.
I warn you. I will not let you hurt...
I have proposed such a way Geralt of Rivia. You have all night. Think about my proposal

I fear for Ciri Yen.
You shouldn't.
But...
Trust me, she hugged him. Trust me please. Ciri is under my care, and Aretuza is secure, She will be able to develop her skills here. As for being a sorceress, forget it. She has other talents. And is destined for other things. Believe me.
I believe you.
Tomorrow will explain many things, and solve many problems.
Tomorrow he thought, she is hiding something from me, and I'm afraid to ask.
Yen?
I'm here.
When you studied at Aretuza, did you have a doll, without which you could not sleep.
No, Yennefer stirred violently. I did not have a doll. Don't ask me that, Geralt. Please don't ask me.
What do you want Yen? What do you dream?
Only about things that can be achieved.
Do you dream of me?
I already have you.
He was silent for a long time. and waited for her to break the silence.
Geralt?
Mmm?
Make love to me, please.

When he awoke at dawn, he walked to the balcony and peed in the pot of nasturtiums.
He dressed quietly so as not to wake Yennefer, who was fast asleep, motionless.
He left the dwelling and went into the garden. He could hear the sound of the banquet still going on, but much subdued.
When he returned slowly, reflecting on important issues, his medallion started shaking violently.
There was no doubt. Someone had cast a spell in Aretuza.
He heard muffled screams and a banging clatter coming from the gallery in the left wing.
Any other would have returned to his room, pretending not to hear, but then the history of the world would have turned out very differently. But the witcher had scruples and principles and was used to following foolish and unrealistic rules.
When he came running through the gallery, there were some soldiers in grey jackets, restraining a sorcerer who was lying on the floor.
Before Geralt could take any action, he was also restrained with an iron triton held to his chest.
This is called falling into the shit Dijkstra quietly explained, and you Geralt seem to have a natural talent for getting into it. Just stand still, and try not to pay attention.
He saw the sorcerer who was being retrained was Artaud Terranova, a member of the Chapter.
Geralt barely recognized Keira Metz, her see through top, replaced by rough masculine grey clothing, she carried a dagger at her side.
Cuff him, she commanded, in her hand she held dimeritium shackles.
Do not dare Metz! I'm a member of the Chapter!
You were. Now your just an ordinary traitor.
And your a mangy bitch, you...
Keira took a step forward, swaying slightly at the hips and with all her strength she slammed her fist into his face.
The sorcerer's head whipped back so fast Geralt thought it was going to detach from the neck.
She never struck him again, but in her raised hand Geralt saw the flash of brass knuckles on her fingers.
What's he doing here!
He has a talent for sticking his nose in. What would you have me do with him? said Dijkstra.
Just keep an eye on him, I don't have time for this shit right now.
At Dijkstra signal, the soldiers released Geralt.
Keep absolute peace of mind..
What is happening here? What is...
And absolute silence.
Keira Metz returned after a short time with a sorcerer that Geralt had been introduced to the previous night as Dethmold of Ban Ard. Upon seeing the witcher he cursed and slammed his fist into his hand.
Damn it! Isn't he the one with Yennefer?
This, Keira confirmed. is Geralt of Rivia. The problem is that we don't know how he is with Yennefer...
Take him to Philippa, she can decide.
There is no need Dijkstra said sleepily. I can vouch for him. I'll take him where he belongs.
What is going on Dijkstra?
Haven't you guessed?
How is it that you happened to be here witcher? Yennefer told you to come here, am I right?
No, Yennefer is still asleep in bed. Has this reassured you?
No it has not reassured me you fucking idiot, he yelled. Do you not understand clown, that the sorcerers honest and loyal do not sleep tonight? Have not gotten into bed? Those sleeping in their beds are traitors bribed by Nilfgaard. Traitors who themselves have been planning a coup, but for later today.
If you don't want to go down with them, stop pretending idiot! Were you recruited by Vilgefortz last night? Or were you recruited before by Yennefer? Speak, hurry because you're up to your neck in shit, and it's about to reach your mouth!
Come on, he said coldly. Up these stairs. Soldiers and sorcerers gathered there. Among them were Council members, Radcliffe and Sabrina Glevissig, both dressed in the same grey clothing as Keira.
Kneeling on the floor was Triss, bent over a body lying in a pool of blood. Geralt recognized Lydia van Bredevoot by her hair and silk dress, the face he could never have recognized. It was hideous and gruesome, with bare teeth gleaming through half of her cheek, the lower jaw was deformed, sunken and badly swollen.
Cover her, said Sabrina. When she died the illusion that had been her face dispelled...Damn it, cover her with something.
How could this happen Radcliffe, Triss asked, removing her hand from the hilt of the dagger stuck below Lydia's breastbone. This was meant to be done without any deaths!
The sorcerer bowed his head, When they took Vilgefortz there was an uproar...I don't really know what happened... That's her own dagger.
Cover her face damn it! Sabrina screamed. What the hell is he doing here! Sabrina raised her hand.
Triss jumped up quickly, and threw herself on the witcher. Geralt saw her face before her hand, there was a flash and he fell into darkness. Triss's voice was unnatural, it sounded like she was feigning anger. She tugged at him, and for the moment he found himself next to her.
Forgive me, he heard her quickly whisper. I had to, lie still.
Geralt lay still, he heard Sabrina cursing, trying to calm Triss. Raised voices. Hurry this has taken too long! We should be in Garstang already!
Philippa Eilhart is nervous, Marti Sodergren is faster, get her out of bed if necessary. Something is wrong with HenGedymdeith. I think it's a heart attack. Have Marti address it. But don't tell her what's going on.
Triss, you have to locate and then take Dorregaray, Carduin and Drithelm to Garstang.
Why?
They represent the Kings. Let Ethain and Esterad be informed of our actions, and it's consequences. It will bring... Triss, you have blood on your hands! Whos?
Lydia
Damn. When? How?
Does it matter how? said the cold, calm voice of Tissaia de Vries. Her dress rustled.
So she was not in the grey uniform of the rebels, nor could Geralt hear the clink of dimeritium chains.
You pretend to be affected, to be worried? Continued Tissaia. When organizing a revolt, when armed soldiers are entering at night, you have to expect there will be casualties. Lydia is dead, Hen Gedymdeith is dying. I just for a moment saw, Artaud, his face was butchered, How many more victims will there be Philippa Eilhart?
I do not know. Philippa replied sharply. But I will not go back.
Of course. You do not back off for anything.
Philippa walked towards Geralt, he could smell the cinnamon and spikenard.
Dijkstra said, the one with the pretty hair did it.
The sorceress wasn't fooled. Do not pretend Geralt, Triss has only darkened your eyes, but do not get you head removed. How is it you appeared here?
I ran. Where is Yennefer?
Blessed are those that do not know. There was no mockery in Philippa's voice. Say thankyou to Triss for you life Geralt.
Watch him Dijkstra. I'll be back.
The raised voice of Tissaia de Vries. Let her go! How could you?
She is a traitor. said Radcliffe.
I do not believe it.
Blood not water, Philippa said coldly. Emperor Emhyr has promised the elves an independent state.
That was enough to betray us.
Answer! Tissaia de Vries said with emotion. Answer her, Enid!
Answer, Francesca.
The lilting elvish accent of Francesca Findabair. the Daisy of the Valley, the most beautiful women in the world.
Me Va a Vort, Dh'oine. These N' aen and dice'n.
Is that enough for you Tissaia? said Philippa's voice like a bark. Do you believe me now? You, me, we are, and always have been to her Dh'oine, which she being Aen Seidh has nothing to say to. And you Fercart? What has Emhyr and Vilgefortz offered you to make you betray us?
Go to hell, you perverted slut!

Geralt listened but did not hear the sound of brass knuckles colliding with jaw.
Philippa had more control than Keira. Or didn't have brass knuckles.
Radcliffe, take the traitors to Garstang!
Dethmold, offer your arm to the great teacher de Vries, Go now. I will join you.
Dijkstra.
Here I am Phil.
Your subordinates are not needed here. Have them return to Loxia.
Are you sure?
To Loxia Dijkstra!
At your service, noble lady. mocked the spy.
The footman have done their share. It is now the exclusive domain of sorcerers.
I shall remove myself from the beautiful eyes of your Highness.
I did not expect gratitude for the assistance and participation in your coup, your Highness.
I'm sorry Sigismund. Thank you for your help.
You have not seen or heard anything, Philippa Eilhart whispered to the witcher.
You have never spoken to Vilgefortz. Dijkstra will lead you to Loxia. I will try to find you when... When this is all over. I promised you something last night and I will keep my word.
And what of Yennefer?
He is obsessed. Yennefer, Yennefer...Do not worry about him Phil, there are more important issues. Did you find anything in Vilgefortz's belongings?
Here, this is for you.
Oho! The rustle of paper. Oho! Beautiful! Duke Nitert. Baron...
Discreetly Sigismund, without names.
And I ask that when you return to Tretogor, do not start the executions immediately. Do not induce an early scandal.
Out of curiosity Phil, were there any other lists? Do Kaedwen, Temeria, or Aedirn have traitors?
I would be glad for a look. Even half a glance...
These lists will be given to Sabrina and Radcliffe, now go, hurry.
Phil.
I'm listening.
Restore Geralt's sight, lets not leave him stumbling around in the dark.
Come. Dijkstra hurried him with a cough. He who rises early, the gods help.
If your in such a hurry, go alone.
Well of course, sneered the spy. Then you can go back up to Yennefer and fuck like drunken gnomes.
We go to Loxia witcher, are you delusional or something? Do you think I pulled you out of Aretuza because I love you? You here because I need you.
For what?
Are you pretending? Studying at Aretuza are a hundred ladies from the best families of Redainia.
I cannot risk a conflict with the esteemed Margarita Laux-Antille.
She will not give me Cirilla, Princess of Cintra, who was brought to Thanedd by Yennefer. However she will release her when you ask.
Where did you get the funny idea that I'm going to ask?
From the funny assumption that you want to ensure the safety of the Princess.
Under King Vizimir's protection she will be safe in Tretogor.
On Thanedd Ilse she is not.
Yes I know the Kings intentions were not initially the cleanest for the girl, but things have changed.
It has now become clear the Cirilla alive and healthy could be more valuable than ten heavy cavalry detachments. Dead she is worth nothing.
Does Philippa Eilhart know what you intend?
She does not. She does not even know that I know the girl is in Loxia.
My dearest Phil lifts her head high, but King Vizimir still rules Redainia. It is him I serve.
Cirilla will be safe.
Do you believe me?
The witcher stood silent.
Do you believe me? Dijkstra repeated, coming over to him.
Geralt straightened up and punched him straight on the jaw. The big spy staggered, but did not fall.
A couple of Redainian solders joined the fight, once Geralt had knocked them all to the ground, Dandelion came running up the stairs. Geralt! Ciri has disappeared! She's gone!
A solder got back to his feet, Geralt knocked him back down.
Did you bring me my sword?
Both of them.
This sword is Ciri's you idiot.
Didn't you see the Redainian eagles? these are the Kings men. This is Treason!
You'll both go to the gallows said Dijkstra, drawing his dagger.
The witcher kicked the spy in the ribs.
Dandelion, give me both swords and get off the Island, run as far away as you can.
I'm going back up top. I have to save Ciri...And Yennefer. Dijkstra, lie quietly and put your dagger away.
You will not get away with this, the spy gasped. I will bring my ...
Geralt bent down and grabbed the spies foot, twisted it sharply and with great force. The sickening crack made Dandelion wince as if it had been his leg that was shattered.
What you do to me after this, said the witcher, I don't give a shit.
Not without difficulty, Geralt found his way through the maze of rooms to where he had slept with Yennefer.
A rag doll was watching him with it's little button eyes.
He sat on the bed and clutched his head in his hands. On the floor there was no blood.
But hanging on the back of the chair was her black dress. Had Yennefer changed into grey male attire? Or was she dragged away in her underwear, in dimeritium chains.
At a bay window sat Marti Sodergren, she lifted her head when she heard his footsteps. Her cheeks were lined with tears. Hen Gedymdeith is dead. They called me too late. I couldn't do anything. Sabrina struck me in the face. Why? What is happening?
Have you seen Yennefer?
No, I've not seen her. Leave me alone. I want to be alone.
Show me the shortest way to the Garstang... Please.
Marti Sodergren pointed to some stairs.
On the stairs Geralt saw the sorcerer Dorregaray coming towards him.
Geralt? Gasped the sorcerer. What are you doing here? Don't just stand there, run!
What happened?
Betrayal
What?
Dorregaray fell against the witcher, Geralt could see the shaft of an arrow in his back.
Geralt freed himself from Dorregaray and drew his sword, he deflected an arrow and went after an Elf in the Squirrel tail hat. One blow to his neck was enough. A second Elf appeared at the top of the stairs, Geralt saw a flash, the Elf cried out and fell to the ground with the back of his jacket on fire.
Then another sorcerer came down the stairs, he raised his hand...
Stop! he yelled, It's me, the witcher!
Dorregaray? Alive?
I think so said the witcher, help me with him.
The witcher wiped the blood flowing from Dorregaray's mouth. He has a punctured lug. Can you help him?
I can, said Marti Sodergren, climbing up the stairs from Aretuza.
What's going on Carduin? Who shot him?
Fucking Scoia'tael, they're fighting in the Garstang. Fucking gangs, each worse than the other, Philippa putting people in chains by night, including Vilgefortz and Francesca Findabair. Then Francesca bought in squirrels! And Tissaia de Vries...Damn they have messed this up!
Speak clearly Carduin!
I'll not waste time chattering, I'm going back to Kovir. They can all kill each other for all I care.
We are at war! This whole mess was engineered by Philippa to allow the Kings of the North to declare ware on Nilfgaard! Meve of Lyria and Dmavend of Aedirn provoked Nilfgaard!
Now do you understand!
No, and I do not want to understand. Where is Yennefer?
Stop it! screamed Marti, help me! Hold him, I cannot pull out the arrow!
They helped her.
They are going hard up there, spell for spell.
Spells? In Garstang? But there is a magic blocking aura!
It was Tissaia's doing, she suddenly decided to side with Vilgefortz, dissipating the Aura and neutralizing the Dimeritium. Then Francesca opened the basement entrance and the Elven devils poured in.
We screamed we're neutral and Vilgefortz just laughed. Drithelm was covered in arrows like a hedgehog.
Do you have much more to do Marti? we will have to get out of here.
He won't be able to walk, you will have to teleport us Carduin.
Here? Are you crazy. Tor Lara is too close. The unstable portal means no one can teleport from here!
He cannot walk! I have to stay with him.
Then stay! I like living! I'm getting out of here.
And I can't stay with you Marti, I have to go to the Garstang.
As he looked for the entrance to the Garstang, Keira Metz fell on his head, both collapsed into a blackthorn bush.
I think I've broken a tooth, The sorceress said sadly, lisping slightly. She was disheveled, dirty, covered in soot and plaster and on her cheek was a large hematoma, from casting too many spells.
I think I broke my leg, she said spitting blood. Is that you witcher? I fell on you?
How come?
I wonder too.
Terranova blew me out the window.
Can you get up?
No, I cannot.
I want to get inside unnoticed. Which way?
Are all witchers, Keira spat out more blood,she moaned, trying to get up on her elbows. crazy?
The fighting continues in Garstang! It's so hot that even the stucco on the walls is melting! Are you looking for trouble?
No, I'm searching for Yennefer.
Ha! Keira ceased her effort and lay on her back. If only someone would love me as much. Take my hand.
No, I have to hurry.
Take my hand, I say! I will show you the way into Garstang. I need to get that bastard Terranova.
Well, what are you waiting for? You could not find the entrance, and even if you did, you'd be finished of by the fucking elves...I cannot walk, but I can still cast a few spells. If someone gets in our way, they'll regret it.
Ahhh!, she screamed when he lifted her.
Sorry.
Nevermind, she put her arm around his shoulder. It's this leg.
You still smell of perfume you know.
Keira tried to smile. No not that way, around here, up the hill. It's the second entry to the side of Tor Lara.
Maybe there are no elves...Auuu! Careful, dammit!
Sorry. How did the Scoia'tael get here?
Thanedd is an empty shell, with a cavern underneath. If you know the way, you can get there by boat. Someone betrayed us.
So the squirrels came by sea? When?
Who knows, maybe today, maybe a week ago. Geralt I can't stand it, put me down for a moment. Auuuu!
Keira, it's an open fracture there is blood running down your leg.
Shut up and listen. Because it's about your Yennefer.
We went to Garstag, to the Chamber. It has a magical lock, but the lock doesn't work on dimeritium, we felt safe.
Discussions began. Tissaia and the neutrals shouted at us, we yelled at them. And Vilgefortz remained silent and smiled...
You said something about Yennefer. Hurry. I'm afraid you'll pass out.
Ah, yes... Everything was going our way, when suddenly Yennefer appeared. And introduced to the room the medium...
Who?
A girl, about fourteen years old. Ashen hair, big green eyes... Before we had time to contemplate it, the girl began to Prophesy. She told of events in Dol Angra. No one doubted the truth of it, because those in a trance can't lie, and can't be influenced by magic. It showed Demavend of Aerdirn made a preemptive strike on Nilfgaard.
What the hell is this Philippa! Did we not establish that the war shouldn't start too soon? Why had fucking Demavend not stopped it? Why is this slut Meve...
Shut up Sabrina!
Oh no, let her speak, said Tissaia.
King Vizimir, the impassive voice of the ashen haired medium interrupted, was murdered last night by an assassin. Redainia no longer has a King.
Redainia no longer has a King. Tissaia de Vries stood. In Redainia his majesty has been ruled by Philippa Eilhart, a worthy successor. Willing to sacrifice tens of thousands of lives to achieve absolute power.
Do not listen! Philippa cries. Do not listen to this medium! a mindless tool... Who do you serve Yennefer?
Who commanded you to bring this monster here?
I did. Tissaia de Vries said.
What happened next? What happened to the girl with Yennefer?
I don't know, Tissaia lifted the magic barrier and neutralized the dimeritium and all hell broke loose.
Francesca opened the basement door and the Garstang was swarming with Scoia'tael. They were led by a monster in Nilfgaardian armour and a winged helmet. They had the help of a man with a burn scar on his face. He knew how to cast spells...
Rience.
It was a massacre.. for them Fercart was killed, among us Drithelm was killed. Radcliffe was killed, Marquard was killed, Rejean and Bianca d'Este... Triss Merigold was injured, Sabrina was wounded... When Tissaia saw the corpes she started to understand her error and tried to protect us, tried to restrain Vilgefortz and Terranova..
Vilgefortz just ridiculed and mocked her. Then he lost his mind and ran off.
What about the girl and Yennefer?
The girl, I don't know. No one can teleport near the Tor Lara tower, but Yennefer just disappeared.
The sorceress was coughing, spitting out blood.
It's not just your leg Keira. You have broken ribs.
Don't leave me.
I have to. I'll come back for you.
Sure.