Author's Note:

Just a heads up, this story is currently self-encapsulated within the entire storyline and occurring long before the Yen/Ciri plot. I am drawing from the games, Netflix show and books. I'm also uploading as I write (like a TV show or something) so I'm going to do my best to keep it at a regular upload pace. Please review if you have a minute!

Ward of Kaer Morhen – Chapter 3

A twig snapped nearby and Geralt woke with a jolt, instinctively reaching for his blades. How long had he been asleep? He sprung to his feet, his eyes raking the encampment. Nym was gone, and so was Beast.

"Ah, fuck," he cursed as he leapt into action and saddled Roach, tightening the leather and stirrups quickly. He swung himself into the saddle and twisted the reins, looking for the right path to follow. There was more noise in the forest surrounding the encampment - someone was approaching. He drew one of his swords and held Roach fast, his senses on high alert. How could they have caught up to them so quickly?

Beast emerged from the border of trees like a ship through a canal, Nym straddling him with her right arm loosely grasping the rope Geralt had used to tie him to Roach. She flashed a grin at the stupefied Witcher. She had gone to gather ingredients for breakfast by the looks of it. He lowered his sword as Roach stalled, nickering at the horse and girl.

"A note would have been nice…" He sheathed the sword, puffing hair out of his face. Nym bowed her head in apology, trying to suppress a smile. Geralt dismounted Roach and tied the mare back up.

"Here, pass me all of that," he reached over to help her with the clutch of morels, ramps and wild raspberries. She took hold of Beast's wither, angled her right foot up over his back and vaulted down to the ground.

"Show-off." He contemplated her self-satisfied expression and raised an eyebrow. She smiled up at Geralt as he awkwardly cradled the mushrooms and berries.

They set up a small fire quickly and re-applied a new poultice to Nym's shoulder. From the look of it, the herbs had worked wonders, the raw cuts now showed signs of scabbing over. Using her right arm to swing onto Beast had taken a few tries, but Nym was overjoyed to have some mobility again. She could attempt to ride him for at least a few hours today depending on how far the next destination was. Combing the nearby forest in the morning had afforded her some time to settle into the idea that this journey would be short and that she'd do well to prepare herself for the end of it. That resolve had wavered slightly when she woke up to the sight of Geralt sleeping, his head resting back against the tree with his neck and collar bared, the telltale silver wolf pendant hanging out of his shirt. She had taken the opportunity to study his solid build. His broad shoulders, the multitude of scars that peeked out from his shirt, his silver-white hair and slightly parted lips. She had tossed and turned restlessly for a few minutes before deciding to get on her horse and leave his company. The forest had been a welcome break from the strange feelings she was experiencing in the presence of the Witcher. Was it normal to feel like this about a man? To feel heat and electricity constantly snaking around her body when he was near? She shook her head as she stirred the pot of potatoes and ramps.

"What?" He asked, snapping a carrot in half to feed to the horses. She shook it again, her ears colouring.

"Where did you learn to forage? Can you hunt too?" He asked, head tilted to one side.

Nym nodded. Her family were avid hunters and often spent days in the wilderness tracking animals for meat and leather. Her father had taught them all to find food in the wild, and how to skin and slaughter wild game. That's where they had been that night, leaving her in the attic. Another reason for her to be concerned about them catching up to her was their patience, and expertise in tracking.

"What about your riding skills? I find it difficult to believe that they allowed you to claim Beast as your horse."

This was a slightly difficult story to tell. Nym tried her best anyway, cupping her hands and gesturing the word 'small', then pointing to her leg and gesturing 'break', then finally the universal gesture for 'kill'.

"He was injured or crippled as a foal, and they wanted to put him down?" He guessed. She nodded, smiling. Geralt was actually making an effort to understand her. What she didn't elaborate on was how after she'd set his leg and nursed the horse back to health, Teruin had tried to claim him as his own. Beast was a sizable young colt at the time, and wouldn't let anyone else near him, least of all Teruin. The horse stayed hers on the condition that she wouldn't ride him unchaperoned. Nym however, was a natural on horseback, and had found ways around this rule.

"You saved him then? He turned out to be a fine horse. Beast… Hmm.." Geralt murmured, reaching out to stroke the stallion's great head. Nym froze. The horse stood still, allowing Geralt to stroke him. She exhaled in relief. This was the closest anyone other than Nym had been to the horse in years. She raised an eyebrow at 'Beast'.

'Just wait till I tell him your real name,' she thought mirthfully.

"Ready to go? The couple I know lives about five hours away, we can get there just after midday." Geralt asked, glancing at her. She nodded. The two made swift preparations to leave the encampment. Nym tied her hair back up into a long braid and found some privacy to change into the new shirt and belt she had purchased. Geralt saddled Roach and mounted, extending a hand. She grinned and shook her head, motioning to Beast.

"Without a saddle?" He looked uncertain. She nodded.

"Very well."

She grabbed Beast's wither with her right hand, and leapt up onto his back deftly, throwing her left leg over his back. This was no mean feat, seeing as the creature was a good hand higher than Roach. She scooted up closer to his neck, which was an easier place to retain her balance when riding without a saddle.

"Perhaps a traveling circus troupe…" He teased, leading them out of the encampment. She grinned from behind him. That actually didn't sound so bad.

The group of four rode North at a steady pace. Nym could tell by the stone formations and trees around them that she had never been this far from home before. It felt amazing to ride properly again, and Beast could stretch his legs without being bound to Roach. Geralt looked over at her now and then, her dextrous form and concentrated face. He could see that she was coming alive in some way. To see her now, with wisps of hair floating around her in the wind and a determined smile on her lips and then to imagine her in that dark room all alone made him clench his jaw in anger.

The sun was high in the sky, and the pair had started passing more farmlands and houses. They were on the outskirts of Daevon now, a city close to the capital of Kaedwen. His acquaintances, Lise and Tomas Aird had required his services urgently with a wraith a few years ago and had made it explicit that he was always welcome to stay. He had never taken them up on their offer, finding it less awkward to sleep in taverns and in the forest but Nym could likely do with more pleasant company and a proper bed.

"It's just down this road, towards the riverbank," he gestured. They slowed the horses as they approached the house, surrounded by greenery and with a grey stone courtyard. The two story house was white, with a light orange roof and curved wood and wrought iron door. There was a small stable on the other side of the house that held a black and white pony. It was beautiful, she thought. She spotted a few fruit trees around the property, and could see the river glittering in the distance behind a thatch of trees. A buxom red-headed woman holding a basket full of eggs emerged from the chicken coop, watching them ride in while shielding her face from the sun.

"Geralt of Rivia… Better late than never!" She said with a wide grin. She waved them towards her as they dismounted.

"Lise… It's good to see you. This is Nymeia Salskin, but please call her Nym." Geralt gestured to Nym. Lise put down the basked and clasped Nym's hands. Nym's ears flushed, unaccustomed to the warmth of the greeting.

"It's lovely to meet you Nym. Come in from the heat, the both of you!" She beckoned them over.

"I'm sorry for the intrusion, we needed a place to rest for a fe-"

"Don't you dare apologize! Tomas has been dying for a worthy opponent for that ridiculous game. Let me pour you some water, he'll be home in a few hours, " The woman exclaimed, cutting off Geralt's apology.

Nym and Geralt obliged, stabling the horses. Geralt glanced over at Nym, who was slightly flustered from the heat and sudden social interaction. He recognized that it wasn't likely that she had much of it outside of her family. Lise poured them some cool water and placed some bread, cheese, pickled onions and sliced cured meat on the kitchen table. The kitchen was a beautiful mix of wood and stone, with a hearth beside the long kitchen table for cooking. A large window near the washbasin let in large rays of sunlight. Rosemary and garlic bulbs hung drying near the hearth, along with earthen bottles and jars for flour, oil and sugar along the wooden surface.

"Do you have some business in Ard Carraigh?" Called Lise, her back facing them as she sliced a few apples.

"Something like that…" said Geralt, sipping water.

"Well, save the stories for when Tomas gets back or he'll never forgive me! And please, eat and drink. Make yourself at home." She said, smiling as she brought over the fruit. With that permission, Nym and Geralt tucked into the food. Nym stifled a silent laugh as Geralt stuffed an entire slice of bread into his mouth. She had noticed that he looked rather serious when he was hungry.

"Whhlat?" He asked, scowling with his mouth full. She shook her head, smiling.

After lunch, Geralt gave Nym a brief tour of the property, which included a small gated paddock and a fire pit fit with stone benches. Nym picked a few plums from one of the several plum trees around the property and bit into it, the red liquid staining her lips as they walked in silence towards the river. She wanted to ask him how he felt about this place, and how he knew these people, but didn't want to ruin the pleasurable moment.

"They were in need of my services a few years ago, if you were wondering… They're a rare sort. Open-minded." He said, tossing the plum pit aside.

"How's your shoulder? Did the ride tire you?" He inquired.

She shook her head, she had enjoyed the long ride. Her shoulder was a little stiff, but she had felt invigorated. Arriving at the Aird house was a little jarring after the events of the last few days but she was looking forward to a hot bath soon if she could take one. Her hair also desperately needed to be brushed out and washed.

Lise showed them to their rooms when they returned to the house and left them to freshen up for dinner. Her room had an adjoining bath, and Geralt's room was at the opposite end of the hallway. Lise showed them how to heat water for the baths, and ensured that they had fresh towels and soap. Some clothes were laid out on Nym's bed for her to look through so she quickly peeled off her travel clothes and jumped into the warm bath.

Geralt lathered soap onto his arms and chest absentmindedly. Was she doing the same? He imagined her half submerged in the water, her tan skin and curious green-brown eyes. He groaned quietly, leaning his head back in frustration. It was just a few more days, then they'd find her a new place in the world. She was capable enough, and could probably adapt to a new life, finding work as a lady's maid or shop assistant. Somehow, he couldn't see her in either role at all, especially not after that show of joyful horsemanship. He glowered and dunked his head under water.

Nym scrambled out of the tub, conscious that Geralt would likely emerge from the main bath soon. It was too quiet up here on the second floor, and she'd likely give away what she'd been imagining while in the tub. She dried off and went through the clothes that Lise had left for her. They were a little big, but she put on a simple brick-red dress and wrapped her belt around her waist. The dress felt strange, but she thought her hosts might appreciate a little more decorum for dinner. She did her best to dry her hair and braided it to the side. Nym all but ran down the stairs, not daring to look up at Geralt's door. She slipped into the kitchen, which smelled like butter and fresh herbs.

"My goodness, look at you!" Lise said, turning to flash her a grin. Nym smiled back, and looked down at the ingredients Lise was working with.

"Would you like to help with dinner?" Nym nodded, and the two of them got to work.

Geralt emerged from his bath with slightly damp hair, wearing a fresh black shirt. Tomas would be here soon, thankfully. He needed a little distraction, and perhaps a stiff drink. He hoped Nym was with Lise somewhere, he wasn't quite ready to face her yet. As if on command, Tomas burst through the front door jovially.

"Geralt? Do my eyes deceive me? My God, how long it's been!" The energetic man exclaimed, clasping Geralt's shoulder and thumping him on the back. Tomas had distinct laugh lines and greying sandy-blonde hair. He was also a fiercely competitive Gwent player.

"There you are!" came Lise's voice as she made her way out of the kitchen. She grabbed Tomas by the hand and gestured towards the kitchen.

"Meet Nymeia Salskin, our other guest. She goes by Nym."

Nym emerged from the kitchen behind Lise cautiously, she bowed awkwardly. Geralt quickly fixed his surprised gaze at the wall behind her, making an effort not to scour her face and body with his eyes.

After the introductions were made, Lise and Tomas seated everyone and began to serve the mouth-watering meal. Lise piled Nym's plate high with mashed potatoes, garden peas and wine-braised chicken flavoured with herbs. The food was simple but spectacular. Nym savoured every bite, enjoying the comfortable jokes and conversation that flowed between the couple. Geralt pitched in with his signature sense of humour now and then, drawing appreciative laughter from Lise and Tomas. They reminisced about the monster that Geralt had rescued them from, and asked about his latest contracts. There were no untoward questions about Nym or her muteness, or about where she had met Geralt. She found herself grinning, sipping her wine as a telltale rosy blush began to colour the tips of her ears. Geralt seemed to open up too, spreading his arms and legs out a little bit further in a relaxed position.

After dinner, Geralt and Tomas took up a serious game of Gwent on the front porch. Nym and Lise watched for a while, and then went back inside to clear up slowly, taking the wine with them.

"You wouldn't have believed Tomas' face!" Lise giggled, pouring the last of the wine into their cups on the kitchen table. Nym was tearing up from laughing so hard. It was hard not to laugh with the good-natured woman, she was an expert storyteller. She looked around the warm kitchen, at the steady fire in the hearth and at Geralt and Tomas' whose heads she could see from the window. Her eyes closed happily for a moment, making another mental engraving.

"Alright, darling. It's late. To our health!" Lise and Nym raised their goblets and tipped them back, finishing the last of the wine. Nym put her hands together and dipped her head in a bow.

"You're welcome," Lise said, understanding the thank you. "If you have everything you need for bed, I'll see you in the morning." She said, winking at Nym and making her way up the stairs. Nym nodded, beaming back at her.

Downstairs was now quiet save for the occasional sounds of Tomas and Geralt squabbling over the card game. She picked up the goblets and brought them to the dimly lit kitchen, gazing out of the kitchen window at the sky, feeling like she was in a dream. Perhaps some fresh air would do her good… Beast might want some company, or a few slices of apple.

Geralt glanced into the house at Nym, who was standing in the kitchen. Tomas turned to follow his gaze.

"So… Can I ask about the girl now that you've defeated me so mercilessly?" He asked. Geralt shrugged.

"I found her in the Southwest, she had been attacked by a griffin and was injured."

"She was all alone?" Tomas took a sip of his wine. Geralt nodded, frowning.

"Her family had.. chained her up in the attic, I couldn't just leave her there."

"Bloody hell, what sort of people would do that?" Tomas leaned back, visibly disgusted.

"A pack of cunts." Geralt growled, downing his drink. Tomas chuckled.

"What will you do with her?"

"Not sure. Her family is the rough sort, likely to come after her. We've been covering our tracks. "

"Lise might have a few ideas. Her sister owns a tavern in Ard Carraigh, the Boar and Basilisk. She's trustworthy."

"Hmm… I know the place."

"We'd be happy to help, Geralt. Communication might be an issue but she could work in the kitchens."

"Thank you for offering."

Tomas patted his shoulder and left him to go up to bed. Geralt scowled into the night, trying to picture Nym in the kitchens of a common tavern in Ard Carraigh. He looked into the house again, and she had disappeared. This morning's experience had taught him where he could expect to find her. He strolled up to the stables where Nym was brushing the horses down and feeding them slices of apple. As Geralt got closer, he could tell that she was quite tipsy by the way she was brushing Beast in lazy wide motions from head to tail. He paused, clenching his fists, willing himself to turn around and go to sleep. Nym reached behind her and undid her braid slowly, shaking her head. The smell of cedar soap mingled with night air reached him. His self-restraint broke and he strode towards her, making noise purposefully. She turned, smiling at the sight of him.

"How was your evening?" He picked up a brush and approached Roach, starting to brush her down as well.

'Nice,' she mouthed. The colour picked up slightly in her warm skin. 'Yours?' she pointed at him.

"Pleasant," he nodded. "Good company."

Nym grinned, switching sides to brush Beast's other flank. She was swaying a little bit too much… She yawned soundlessly, rubbing her eyes with her right shoulder. Right, Geralt thought, she was probably exhausted from the ride and all the commotion of the day.

"You should rest, all those potatoes are probably kicking in…" Nym laughed, stumbled, and then caught herself on a post. She shook her head and continued drawing circles into the horse's coat.

Geralt began to smile, the tension in his body suddenly liberated. She wasn't likely to retire of her own volition, so he'd have to coerce her. He moved slowly around and behind her.

"Come, let's go upstairs." He leaned on the same post and crossed his arms, fixing a heady gaze on her eyes and lips. Nym froze, seemingly short-circuiting. She moved in closer, drawn to his sly lure. He brushed a lock of dark hair behind her ear gently.

"That's it, let's go…" He whispered quietly, speaking like he would to some wild animal. She blinked slowly, having clearly reached the peak of her intoxication.

"Come here, with me…" He breathed in his low voice, it was time for her to go to bed. Geralt made a motion to grasp her hand.

Nym caught his right hand before he'd even reached her, firmly keeping him at bay. Geralt raised his eyebrow in surprise. She shook her head, then gently placed a finger against his lips, smiling torturously at his ruffled expression. She began slowly tracing her finger down his lips, past his stubble and jawline. Down his neck and collarbone, and beyond the scars on his chest… She could almost see his heartbeat in the nook under his throat. She gently circled his wolf medallion that hung on the silver thread, her eyes cast down provocatively. Geralt felt his skin sear wherever she drew her trail. Finally she dragged her finger up past his bicep, forearm and then to his hand, which she held open for a second. Her eyes met his, almost like embers in the night. His breathing was starting to become audible. Nym looked down at his palm, her finger freezing just above it. His eyes followed. She started grinning a slow, mischievous grin, then made the sign for 'run'.

And then she was off, laughing soundlessly into the night. Geralt stood open-mouthed, astonished at how she had outplayed him at his own game. She stopped outside the door to the house, laughing gleefully with her hand covering her mouth.

"You'll pay for that, you know," Geralt said, striding over to her. He shook his head and opened the door to the house which was lit only by a few dying oil lamps. They made their way up to the second floor, where Nym dropped into a deep curtsy before him and disappeared into her room, shutting the door softly. Geralt stood for a moment more, his eyes feeling like they could bore holes through that door. That night, he dreamt of sunlight and blood and the smell of cedar soap.