- Are you sure? - Female voice woke up Ciri. She opened her eyes and first thing she saw was wooden rooftop.
- Certainly. - Male voice said, while Ciri looked at the large duvet made of different kinds of animal's furs.
- But, that is impossible! - Woman said in disbelief. - There is no way she would survive that! - she added while Ciri tried to get up, but, to her dismay, body refused this command at first.
- Granpa! - Child suddenly said, interrupting the discussion. Both looked with shock at Ciri, who still tried to get up. Surprisingly young woman for her voice, rushed to bed and put her hand on Ciri's forehead.
- No, no - she said and gestured - Rest. You need to rest.
- Where am I? - Ciri asked to further shock of the black-haired woman.
- You speak our language!? - She couldn't hold back at this point, staring with her green eyes at Ciri - How is it…?
- Zuza please. - male voice said - She needs to rest now. I can manage it from now on.
Zuza looked at the owner of the voice and Ciri's stare also followed. On the large chair sat a two-meter tall man, wearing leather clothes probably made from more than one wolf. He had short, gray beard and nearly white hair. His scars and disfigured nose gave up his past profession. Only his eyes were different – blue like the ocean water, and full of energy. Both exchanged eye contact for a brief moment, and Ciri saw in them what she expected – a veteran, who saw much. Maybe too much.
- Very well Percy. - Zuza said to the giant - I still need to check the Jankow's daughter condition. You know where to find me if you need me.
- Thank you for everything. - Man looked at her with eyes full of respect.
- Anytime. - Zuzanna said before taking her coat, and then opened the door and left the house. When door shut behind her, Ciri again wanted to look at the man and ask some questions, but all the sudden infront her head stood child, and watched her with curiosity.
- Are you Arari? - Child asked, staring at her with curiosity.
- What? No! - Ciri answered, surprised by the question
- You must be! - Child insisted - You have a sword, you fell from the sky, you are beautiful like an elf! You must be Arari! Right granpa? - Child looked at his grandfather, excitement in his voice.
- Witold please. - Giant left gentle laugh and smiled to his grandson - Give a lady some breathing space! She went through quite a lot. Am I right? - He asked her.
- Yes - Ciri said You have no idea she almost added, but stopped herself - Who are you?
- Oh, where are my manners! - Giant reprimanded himself - My name is Percival Kowlak, and he - he looked at the child. - Is my grandson Witold Kowlak.
- Hi! - Witold smiled and waved to Ciri - So, how did you fell from the sky?
- Witold! - Percival gently put his large hand on kid's head - Please, forgive my grandson, he is still five years old and he is very curious about everything.
- And soon, I will turn six! - Witold added cheerfully - And grandpapa will take me to Erengrad as my birthday present! Remember? - he asked, and giant chuckled.
- I would never forget about that. - he started messing up kids head, to child's joy. Ciri smiled seeing this, reminded about those better days of her life.
- And how people call you? - Percival asked
- Ciri. – she answered
- Ciri… - Percival repeated, deep in his thoughts - Strange name. Not popular in this parts. It probably means, that you came here from very far.
- Yes - she agreed - From very far away.
- If not from the sky… - Witold said out loud his thoughts - Then maybe from this Ultan island! But you lack pointy ears…
Elves with their own island?
- No, Not from that place. - Ciri smiled to kid - I am from… Cintra.
- Cin-tra? - Witold repeated, confused - Where is Cintra granpa? - He asked Percival.
- Your grandad probably never went there - Ciri said, causing even more confusion for the kid while Percival remained silent.
- No way! - Witold claimed - Granpapa was everywhere! Right? - He yet again turned to his grandad.
- I visited… many places. - Percival said slowly - Could you be more specific where this 'Cintra' is? - he asked with serious voice.
Shit She thought Good job Ciri, good job.
- In the south, near the vast ocean. - she said with small glimmer of hope.
Percival stared at her for quite some time, in complete silence. His face almost resembled the face of a bear, who is about to start attacking. Ciri quickly calculated in her head how much time she needs to blink and take her sword, only to realise, that her sword is missing.
But, to her surprise, Percival smiled and hit his head like he suddenly remembered something.
- Cintra! Of course! - He stated - You must be from those new colonies in the Southlands! I heard Tileans, Estalians and Imperials are creating them in hope for new life and treasure. You ventured VERY far then if you landed in Kislev of all places. - He laughed.
- You never were in the Sou-th-land-s granpapa? - Witold asked, shocked at this revelation.
- Not in that part sadly. - He said to Witold, and then rose up from his chair - It is already late, you should go to bed.
- But granpapa, I am not tired! - kid opposed the idea - I want to ask pretty lady about Cin-tra!
- But She is very tired. - Percival said, looking at Ciri, while reaching with his hand towards the child - And she needs to sleep too. I may tell you about the greatest of Dwarf's cities if you behave nice.
Witold nearly jumped from excitement, and took the hand immediately.
- I want to hear a story about Karaz-a-Karak! - He nearly jumped in place while Percival chuckled at this sight.
- You actually said it right! - he complimented Witold while they walked to child's room - I will tell you this story then and I won't miss any detail, but you will go to sleep afterward, alright?
- Ye! - Witold answered, trying eagerly to make his grandpa walk faster.
Ciri again put her head on the pillow. She thought about running away, but vision of going from this warmth and comfort into this cold and snow wasn't appealing at all. Besides, Percival reminded her for someone. Someone she met long time ago and helped her.
- Vysygota… - She whispered and quickly fell asleep.
'
Ciri woke up several hours later, finally well-rested. She put out the duvet and realized that she was wearing the same cloths for past few days. She looked around and saw cloths made of fur and leather on nearest table.
When she changed her outfit to more winterproof one, she looked around the house.
House was well built – no holes in the ground or walls, snow is not falling from the rooftop, and actual glass in windows instead of just holes, like many villages in northern kingdoms. The rest was normal – wooden chairs, large table and the fireside. Although strangely, that fireside was decorated with various talismans, amulets and gold.
Owner must be quite wealthy she noted, and then she heard some noise outside, like someone is… singing?
She got to the door, opened it slowly and looked at outside.
- And Summer yet may bloom again… - Percival sang while chopping wood with his axe - Though Ice will be all upon us. - When he picked another lumber and prepared to strike, he noticed Ciri standing in the doorway.
- Oh, Hello! - he smiled and waved to her - I see you are finally awake.
- Yes. Thank you for your hospitality - Ciri said while approaching him - Are you a lumberman? - She asked out of curiosity.
- That's nothing really. As for the lumber… - With powerful swing he cut yet another piece of the wood - That's only one of my tasks here. It helps keep my body in good shape.
- Mhm. - Ciri first glanced at the large pile of cut trees without branches nearby, and then enormous muscles of the man - It certainly helps you.
- Aye. - He agreed - Are you hungry? It is almost time for breakfast.
- I would probably eat entire horse right away - Ciri stated, feeling huge emptiness inside her stomach.
- I cannot let my guest walk hungry! - Percival proclaimed - We need to fix that right away! he walked into the house, and Ciri followed closely behind.
- So - He turned towards Ciri and clapped his hands while she sat near the table - You eat meat or vegetables?
- At this moment, everything will be fine, thank you - Ciri answered, and Percival left a relieved sigh.
- Glad to hear this - He said - Because I don't have much vegetables right now - He laughed a little and started cooking in large pot, which was just above the fireside.
- So, Percival, may I ask you some questions?
- Yes, you may call me Percy - he answered - And of course. Only if I ask mine as well.
- Alright, Percy. - Ciri agreed - First off, where exactly am I?
- You are in great Tzardom of Kislev, Western Oblast. - Percival said before dropping something into the pot. - The nearest great city, Erengrad, is two weeks on foot from here and four days on horse, west from our village - He said - Wyjchera by the way - He added, carefully watching something in the pot.
That was… slightly helpful. Ciri thought to herself.
- Now, please tell me for real from where are you. - Percival said - You like pierogi with fried onion or without?
- Without. - She said, surprised by both of his questions. - So you never "bought" my story? Ciri asked, causing him to chuckle and turn towards her with plate full of dumplings
- May I call you Ciri? - He asked, and after she mad approving nod he put plate before her - Ciri, in my long live I encountered so much bullshit, that I can basically smell it. - He walked back for his plate and shortly after put it on a table - I do believe Cintra exist somewhere, but not in the Southlands.
- I see. - Ciri said, and took first pieróg on the pork – The truth is, that it is hard to believe. Cintra really exist, or existed at least. And I fear that if I tell you this, where it is, you won't allow me to stay. - and took a bite from the first pieróg, which was probably one of the best she ever ate.
- You see. – Percival said – I would probably believe you, considering events, which led to me finding you in the snow. Besides. – He said, while Ciri ate another pieróg – This clothes are marked with runes of Dazh, which would cause any Daemon wearing them scream in agony. So, you are not a monster in disguise.
She looked at him with surprise, and Percival smiled seeing her face.
- This is harsh land girl! – he exclaimed – Kislev is a bulwark of civilization! We need to be vigilant all the time. I would be damned if I let one servant of the ruinous powers walk into my house, to later wreak havoc in Motherland.
Ciri wanted to dwell on it more, but was far too focused on sating her hunger while Percival ate his portion as well.
- Did you like it? - He asked, curious about her opinion
- They were delicious! Thank you. - She answered. Finally eating something warm after everything what happened was a refreshing experience.
- Good! Witold love them too. - He remarked while taking the plates away - Glad to see someone else appreciating them.
- Oh right, where is Witold? - Ciri asked
- He plays with other children from the village - Percival said - He is probably making the biggest snowman in Wyjchera. He tried to wait until you wake up to ask you something, but his friends came and he left with them. He still wants to hear about Cintra from you though. – he raised from his chair, and walked towards the door - We will meet him in the village.
- Wait. – she said while Percival walked towards the door – You also said about "Daemons" and "Ruinous Powers". What are they?
Percival turned to her, eyes wide open
- You never heard about Gods of Chaos!? – He said in shock
- No, no I heard about them! – she said while she waved her hand in defensive gesture. – There is ehmm, Tzeentch, Morr…
Percival became even more confused, and Ciri carefully watched his reaction.
- There is a difference, isn't there?
- Aye. – Percival answered – There is.
Both stood in silence for a few minutes, pondering about this whole conversation.
- You know… – Percival broke the silence – This is a very long discussion, and I have a work to do, so, I really need to go now. – He opened the door. – Do you wish to join? I can show you my small neighborhood.
Ciri thought about escaping for moment, but something deep within her convinced her to stay with this strangely well-educated man, living in the village, in the middle of nowhere.
- Gladly. – she agreed, rose from her chair.
,
- You live quite far from your village - Ciri said while walking beside Percival, who pulled large sledge full of wood.
- What can I say? Closer to woods, easier to avoid a plague. - He said
- Do you currently have plague in Kislev? - She asked, and Percival shook his head in denial.
- Not now, probably not in the next ten years, but sooner or later something will leave this accursed Cauldron. - Percival stated – That's from Nurgle, the oldest of the Ruinous Powers, nefarious being, patron of all plagues, bringer of decay. – He spit on the snow, disgusted by even saying this name. Before she could react, Percival turned to her
- Ciri, are you a warrior? – He asked.
- Not quite, but I know how to fight, - she answered, and Percival shook his head in response - What? You never met a female wielding a blade before? - she said, causing him to chuckle.
- By Ursun, of course I met! - He said, flooded by memories - Quite a lot actually. By Dazh, In Kislev we have formations made only from female! And each can easily rip Norscan apart! You just seem… different from them.
- In which way? - Ciri asked with curiosity
- Well, you resemble the Ice Guard, but they are usually resistant to cold. And they wield weapons made of ice instead of steel.
- Please, be serious. - Ciri sighed, annoyed by this poor joke.
- I am. - Percival stated, causing Ciri's to look at him in disbelief. Only to see he really is serious. She stood still for a moment, causing Percy to stop as well.
- Something is wrong? - He asked, worried.
- Nevermind - she shook her head and continue walking - And those "Norscans", who are they? - She asked
This time, Percival didn't even stutter.
- Of course, you don't know about the Norscans as well.
- Yes? - she replied, not sure if this is a good answer or not, and Percival smiled a little.
- I envy you. - He stated - Place not despoiled by Northman must be a happy one.
- It was. - she said, little sad, seeing all those memories returning for her. Smile left Percival's face quickly after hearing this.
- Let's… just pretend we didn't talk about this, shall we? - He asked her, and after receiving approving nod he stop the conversation, and started to hum something under his nose.
Ciri used this opportunity to get a closer look at her host. He was probably the biggest man Ciri ever saw in her life, and because of his old scars and grey hair she assumed he is already elder man, but in contrast his body remained surprisingly strong – His still stood straight, meaning that his bones and muscles are not weakened at all. Hell, he pulls sledge full of cut trees, like it is nothing. Then she noticed something strange hanging on his belt.
- What are you carrying? - She asked out of curiosity, pointing at it. Percival followed her finger and chuckled a bit.
- A family pistol. - He replied, and drew it out - I got it from my father years ago, and always carry it ever since. - He thought for a moment. - You know what 'pistol' is, do you?
- Yes. - she answered. And she wasn't lying, she was in so many strange worlds and in some she encountered "guns" – noisy, generating a lot of smoke after fire, and extremely deadly. Some firing slow and inaccurate, while other where both fast and precise.
But this one was slightly different – made of white wood, silver and copper had some words in language even she couldn't decipher and runes unknown to her.
Being Lady of the Worlds have some benefits other than creating portals, blinking in short distances or magical power – one of the more useful, yet not as "flashy" is subconscious understanding different languages, reading in different tongues and also "attuning" to them, speaking it freely. So, seeing a language that she cannot understand was a surprise.
- It says "Only in Death does Duty ends". - Percival said, putting weapon back in its place.
- Haunting promise. - She said.
- Aye. - He said - And here we are! - He presented Ciri village of Wyjchera.
As expected, small cottages made mostly from wood with roofs covered in snow. All of those buildings were set in two lines, close to each other, connected by one road cleared from snow. Among those buildings were people mostly women and old man, They walked from house to house, talked to each other or cleared snow from rooftops while standing on the ladders. Groups of young children run between the buildings, playing with each other, throwing snowballs or making a snowman.- Very peaceful place. - she said, and Percival nodded
- Perfect to disappear from the world's attention - Percival stated, and Ciri gave him and questioning look. Seeing it, he simply shook his arms
- What? Only desperate or in great need go here. Village is in the middle of nowhere, why would someone travl here willingly, if he or she don't want to simply "vanish" in this grim world?
- So, are you desperate or in need of something? - Ciri asked
Percival remained silent for a moment, touched his chest with his left arm, and then smiled.
- Let just say I want to forget and be forgotten - He said and walked into the village still pulling the sledge, Ciri following closely behind, pondering on his words.
Percival approached first house and knocked the door three times. After a while, an elder woman opened the door, and smiled seeing him.
- Percival! - She greeted him - Paid a visit to have some tee?
- Thank you, but maybe later Blanka. - he politely declined - But I brought more wood for the fireplace.
- Oh thank you! How kind of you. - She said while Percival took a vast chunk from the sledge and brought into the house.
- It should be enough for the next five days. - he said while leaving Blanka's house - Do you need anything else?
- No, no, everything is fine, thank you again. - Blanka answered - If you want to pay a visit, come anytime!
- I will. - Percival promised and walked back to the sledge.
- You seem to know her pretty well. - Ciri said, while Percival started pulling sledge again.
- Yeah, I pretty much know everyone in Wyjchera. - he replied - We are small community, so we should know and support one another.
Same scene was repeated five more times – Percival exchanging small talk and delivering wood inside houses while listening to their problems or concerns. This slightly warmed Ciri's heart – after witnessing so much cruelty and hatred everywhere, seeing those small acts of kindness where refreshing experience.
When they approached the sixth house, group of children run out screaming.
- Get back here! Give me back my hat! - young man with mustache run behind the kids
- Granpa! - Witold yelled and run towards his grandfather, still holding man's ear-cap. Percival kneeled with open arms, and when Witold run into his embrace, he raised from his knees and, with a smile, looked at his grandkid.
- I see you took Bernard's favorite ear-cap again - he said
- Ye! - Witold presented his grandfather Bernard's ear-cap - We just wanted him too pla… CIRI! - He greeted her - You are finally awake!
- I am - She smiled to Witold - And I heard you build the largest snowman in the village.
- Ye! - He said, proud of himself - I and my friends made it! But it still lacks head - Witold turned his face to his grandfather - Granpapa, snowman needs head! He is sad without face!
Percival gasped - This can't stand, we shall help him right now! Where is he? - He declared, and after Witold pointed the direction. Percival put him on his right shoulder, and pulling the sledge with his left hand walked to the snowman. Ciri wanted to follow, but she soon realized that all kids, who came with Witold, stare at her with wide open eyes and mouths.
- Hello. - She leaned towards them - You are Witold friends, aren't you?
- Ehmm yes! - small girl with blonde hair, wearing thick coat made of sheep wool spoke for the group - And you are the Arari Witold spoke about! - She exclaimed in awe. - That you fell from the great sky city of Cintra, which is near the vast ocean! Just above Sou-th-lands! -
- First off…
- Are you not freezing in Cin-tra? - One kid asked
- Do brave warriors go there when they die? - second kid immediately followed
- Does Dazh visits you there?
- Where did you get that scar?
- Hey! I was first, not you! - Kids started arguing with each other, not even giving Ciri a chance. Despite her best attempts, nothing could stop the arguing between kids
Percival turned to Bernard - May you do something? - he asked.
Bernard, who whole this time looked at Ciri, desperately trying to hide his emotions, after Perciaval's suggestion regained his composure.
- Hey! - He said to the kids - Don't you see beau… I mean lady is busy right now? Surely she will answer all of you but now go play somewhere else! Understood?
- Yes, teacher. - Kids said at the same time, and with sad faces walked past Percival. One girl from the group quickly took Bernrad's hat from Witold's hand, both having cheeky grin on their faces while doing it.
- Thanks a lot. - Ciri said to Bernard, and he quickly lost his composure again.
- I..ee.e That's nothing, really. - Ashamed, he tried to take of his cap from the head, until he touched his brown hair...
- HEY! - he turned towards the group of kids, who at an instant started running again, and he quickly resumed his chase after them.
- Kids seems to like you - Percival noted while he started walking towards the snowman again.
- Men too. - Ciri said, watching the group running away, causing Percival to chuckle a bit.
- Of course. - he turned his head to Witold - And what I told you about spreading rumors?
- But granpapa!
- No 'buts' young man. - Percival scolded him a bit - You can't just say something untrue about other people. It may hurt them a lot.
- But granpa, I know she is from the sky! - Witold replied - I feel it… here - he pointed at his abdomen, and Percival smiled
- In your stomach? - he asked, humored a little
- Ye! Something inside tells me that. I can feel it! - Witold added
- Kids and their imagination - Percival shook his head, not noticing that Ciri took a careful look at the kid.
She felt it too – something was off with Witold. Something dwelled inside of him, ready to be let loose, like near boiling water. She felt that earlier in Percival's house, but due to the recent events, she thought little about it. Now, She could properly focus on it.
- Have you visited your grandad? - Percival asked his grandkid
- Of course I visited grandpa Os! - Witold answered
- And how is Oswald doing? - Percival asked his grandson, hiding his cold approach.
- Granpa Os said he is doing good. - Witold - He gave me warm milk and told more interesting stories about papa and Erengrad.
- Of course he did. - Percival sighed, not even surprised.
- When he asked me how I have been I told him about Ciri! - Witold said, causing Percival to give his grandkid extremely worried look.
- What have you said? - He asked
- That she fell from the sky and that you found her in snowstorm granpa! - Witold answered happily - He smiled and said that he wants to talk with you!
- Shit. - Percival whispered to himself, quiet enough for Witold, but not for Ciri.
- I guess Oswald has clear opinion about paranormal events, doesn't he? - Ciri asked, and Percival nodded in agreement.
- You can put it that way - He said - Oswald has… bad experiences.
- Here granpa! - Witold said when they approached large snowman without the head and left arm.
- Well, is his head laying near him? - Percy asked while looking around, obviously faking that he is not seeing it..
- It is right here Granpa! - Witold pointed him the large snowball and Percival looked at it with a smile
- You are far better in finding things than me. - He stated, and gently put his grandson down on the ground. He then approached the snowball.
- May Ciri do it? - Witold suddenly asked, catching Percival off-guard and surprising Ciri.
- Why? - He asked out of confusion
- Because you do it all the time! - Witold stated - Please, just this once!
Ciri kneeled near Witold before Percival could react - How about we do it together? - She asked and gently picked Witold up. Both approached the snowball and Witold took it with his small hands while Ciri carried him to the snowman and raised him high enough to help him put snowman's head in its place.
Witold turned his head to her, joyful smile on his face.
- He is happy now, see? - He pointed at snowman.
- He is. - Ciri said while putting him down on the ground - But I think he still lacks something. - she added, and Witold looked again at the snowman, carefully examining it.
- Arms! - Witold realized - How will he hold a shield without a hand!
- Percival! - Giant heard his name and turned around to face approaching Zuza
- Ahh, Zuza! - he greeted her - How are you today?
- Fine, thanks for asking. - She answered while carefully observing Ciri - Unbelievable. Like she regained her strength in matters of hours.
- For some, one good and comfortable sleep is enough - Percival replied - But she still weakened. Well, I think she is.
- Anyway, My house's roof got a hole yesterday, may I ask you for help with that?
- Of course - he turned to Ciri - Will you take care for Witold for a while? I need to do something.
- Alright. - Ciri said while helping Witold put a wooden arm into the snowman's shoulder - I think we are getting along, don't we? - She asked Witold
- Ye! -child answered
- Alright, I will return in no time" Percival said - Take care for our guest! - He said to Witold while walking away
- Aye! - Witold answered and turned to Ciri - Now, let's give him the shield, so he will protect his family! - Witold quickly run to nearest house and started to search for something in open storage
When Witold finally noticed Ciri's questioning look, he showed her small wooden plank in round shape.
- Kasia's father always allows me and my friends to search for parts to finish snowman" He answered with a smile - Because Kasia is my best friend! - He quickly returned to the snowman.
- You have a lot of friends here. - Ciri said
- Ye! - He answered, while putting 'shield' on snowman's arm - All are my friends! Except Ulanow's. They are mean to us.
- Do they bully you? - she asked, but Witold shook his head in disagreement.
- Now, no. But they did bully Kasia. I once screamed at them and called them bullies for that. And they stopped.
- You screamed? - she said, suspicious - And they gave up just like that?
- Ye! Now they avoid me entirely - Witold said, still trying to put a shield. Ciri however had suspicion that this there was something more than simple 'scream' - And finally! You see it Ciri? He is ready to defend us!
- I see. - she gave him a smile - He can withstand all dangers.
- Just like papa! - Witold exclaimed - Papa protects people in Erengrad everyday! He makes sure that no cha-os will fall upon us.
- Your father is a soldier? - Ciri asked, and Witold nodded in agreement - You must be proud of him.
- Ye! - he agreed - He is the best! No one can beat him!
- Kislev is lucky to have your father in service - She said, thinking for a moment about all those soldiers she met through her life. She met brave and patriotic, as well as wicked and despicable. From all her experiences she knew that military may bring the best from people – their courage, sense of duty, selflessness - but it also tempts people, and during war it may turn them into selfish beasts, who thrive in depravity and savagery. Those, who can resist those urges and stay true to their values Ciri respected, because it is far easier to be a monster.
- And your papa? - Witold asked, taking her back from the state of thinking - What is he doing?
- My father? - Memories with Geralt flooded her mind, showing in rapid succession how he saved her in Brokilon, found her among the druids, taught how to fight and survive, how she finally got reunited with him in the Vilgefortz hideout…
All those memories – good and bad, wholesome and sad, traumatic and comforting, some full of happiness she wish to experience again, like her time in Kaer Morhen while some filled with despair she wished to forget, like the day when he died in Rivia. All of them caused lone tear to fall from Ciri's right eye.
- Are you sad? - Witold asked full of worry, but Ciri looked at him and kneeled to him
- Quite the opposite. - She said - My father is also the best. He is caring man, a loyal friend and the defender of those in need, a good mentor. Although he sometimes say he doesn't care about others, in reality, he is willing to risk his own life for innocent people, even when they don't appreciate it. He slays monsters, which prey on human fears and weakness, allowing kids like you to fall asleep in peace, unthreatened by the horrors of the night. He is not a knight nor a soldier, he is…
Witold looked at her in awe, mouth wide open from all of this excitement
- … a professional, that world needs. - she ended
- Wow! - Witold exclaimed - So, you slay monsters too? You too defend people in need?
- Without hesitation - she answered, and suddenly she heard someone quickly approaching them from behind
- STAY AWAY! - Man yelled, and wanted to grab Ciri by her hair, but with the speed of lioness she jumped away, and in no time, she stood combat ready.
- STAY AWAY FROM MY GRANDSON! - Newcomer screamed at her, causing commotion in entire village. - What have I told you about talking to her!? - he reprimanded Witold
- Grandpapa…
- Shut it you brat! - He yelled - I told you to avoid her and you didn't listen!
- You must be Oswald - Ciri said - I…
- I am not talking to you witch! - Oswald screamed, smell of alcohol now clear.
- You are drunk. - She stated - What example you make for children?
- I don't care about some fucking snow-witch judgement! - he said, grabbed Witold right arm, and pulled him closer - I won't let you take him as well!
- It hurts! - Witold screamed in pain, but to no reaction from his grandfather, and Ciri clunged her fists
- Let go of him, or you will make you regret lacking teeth in your mouth. - She promised
- He is MINE, you hear me filthy sorcerer!? He is…
- OSWALD! - Powerful roar broke through the village, just before Ciri launched to strike Oswald's face. Both turned to see an approaching Percival, visibly fuming in anger.
- What. The FUCK. You think you are doing!? - He demanded to know
- I should ask you this question! - Oswald accused him - You not only host a witch, but also keep her near the kid!? What kind of madness is this!?
- The only madness I see is from you. - Percival countered - Along with smell of vodka. Now, let go of my grandson, or I will break your arm.
- He should live with me anyway! - Oswald said, bringing wiggling Witold even closer - Especially while you host a snow-witch in your house!
- Ciri is not a witch you idiot. - He said, not caring about whole village gathered around them, his eyes entirely focused on his adversary.
- And how do you know that? She told you?
- Because I use my brain. You should too. Now, release Witold, before things turn worse for you.
- You see people? He is defending the witch! - Oswlad turned to the crowd to gain some help, but he gained no support.
- I don't know her, true - Blanka said - But I trust Percival more than some drunken pig!
- Yep.
- She is right.
- Percy is too smart to fall for some chaos tricks.
- She walked alongside him entire day, she probably isn't malicious.
Seeing lack of support from the small crowd, Oswald gave one last angry look to Ciri, which she answered with her own threatening stare, and let Witold go.
Witold quickly ran behind Percival's leg, terrified of his second granfather.
- Although she is protected by our ancient laws - Oswald pointed at Ciri - I will not hesitate to call the Orthodoxy, if she finally reveals herself or if something happens to him - he pointed at Witold - Because of her. Mark my words Percival, don't dare to cross this line. - He threatened, and slowly walked towards his house, crowd dispersing to make him a way through.
Percival's stare followed him until he was too far to launch any surprise attack. He then left a heavy sigh.
- You all right? - he asked Witold
- Mhm. - Witold nodded with teary eyes, still holding to Percival's leg - Grandad don't behave like that. Why he is so mean?
- No, he isn't mean. - Percival embraced his grandson - He probably… just had a bad day.
While few moments of comforting the child Percival looked at Ciri. She still looked at the direction from which Oswald came with anger and disgust.
- I am sorry for this Ciri - he said
- Not the first time I meet a drunk man who insult me for no other reason than "she is a witch", so you shouldn't apologize for that - She replied.
- Still, I should have spoken with him before doing anything else - he sighed - Let's go back, it is dinner time already.
He looked at Witold with caring smile - Are you hungry, little Kossar?
- Mhm. - Witold agreed quietly
- Ciri? - Percival asked
- Of course. - she really wasn't that hungry, but she wasn't going to complain about it, especially after that situation with Oswald.
- Let's go then. - He picked up Witold and put him on his right shoulder, and started walking towards his home.
Ciri looked around at the gathered people, who slowly started dispersing as well. She saw their faces, their careful looks. Their uncertain smiles.
They don't trust her. Why should they? For them, she is a great question, a girl from the snowstorm, who survived by miracle. Oswald was only voicing concerns of the entire village. And probably they let her stay only because of her host.
This is yet another warning about overstaying her welcome.
'
Ciri gathered her belongings late night, as quietly as possible. It was relatively quick, for she didn't carry too much in the first place.
I know, very bad way to repay for kindness, but if he only knew who I am, he would understand. she thought.
She left a note in which she explained why she leave so soon, as well leaving the promise that she will repay him for winter clothes, when she earn some money of course.
She wore winter clothes and quietly started walking towards the door. She opened it, without making any noise, and when she got outside, she quietly closed the door.
First, find my sword, then one week of walk to the nearest city. She thought There, I will…
- Leaving without saying goodbye? - She heard from behind, and, with shocked face, turned towards Percival, who was sitting on the trunk, holding a small, burning candle.
- You are not sleeping? - she asked, surprised.
- I don't sleep very well recently. - He answered, and he put another trunk beside him. - I think we have some matters to discuss.
She slowly approached him and sat on the trunk. Both sat in silence for few moments, Ciri deep in her thoughts while Percival watched a night sky.
- If you want to leave because Oswald, then don't worry, I will talk with him.
- No, I don't care about this bitter old man - She answered - As I said earlier, not the first time I encountered someone like that.
- Then, what troubles you?
- I… don't want to cause you and Witold any trouble. - she answered.
- You won't! - Percival exclaimed - We have both have enough food and we enjoy your company, you are not causing us any trouble.
- Not that kind of trouble. - she said.
- Oh. - Percival realized and gave her a worried look - Someone is after you?
Ciri nodded in agreement, and Percival took a big breath - So, you want to run to not endanger us?
- Yes. - she confirmed, and Percival turned his gaze back to the stars. After a moment, Percival chuckled
- I was right about you. - he said, and Ciri looked at him with curiosity
- With?
- That you are a good person. And certainly not a witch. - He said, but Ciri scoffed hearing this.
- You know nothing about me. - She said - About pain I have caused, about people I killed. I am certainly not a 'good' person. If you knew all that, your opinion would drastically change.
- Everyone have their highs and lows. - Percival replied - And certainly there is no true saint in this world. Even "good guys" are forced to do things they consider bad. Past may hunt us, remind us for our failures, but how we proceed after truly matters.
- I didn't kill only those who threatened me. - She added - I also killed people, who weren't an threat to me.
- Do you regret it? - Percival turned towards her
She thought for moment, trying to make her answer as truthful as possible.
- Yes. - she finally said, and Percival smiled hearing that
- Then you still have empathy in you. - He stated - And empathy is a virtue, most of us truly lack.
- You are quite knowledgeable for a retired soldier - She said, and Percival laughed a little
- I live long enough. Besides, I once met similar person to. – hunted by both monsters and his past, thinking that he is forever damned by fate.
- How is he now? - Ciri asked, out of curiosity
- He got well eventually - He answered - Although shadows from his past sometimes creep on him, he is a new man now.
- I see. - she said, and looked at the night sky.
Although those stars were distant and far different from those she watched from her home, they remained beautiful sight to behold. Many cultures assume that stars are souls of the people who passed away, and became a star high in the sky to watch after their families and friends, assuring them that no matter where they go or what happens to them, they are never truly alone.
Both Ciri and Percival stared at the beautiful sky full of stars, both thinking about their families. Ciri particularly thought about Calanthe, her grandmother and role model, Geralt and Yennefer, her foster parents, who searched entire continent to find and reunite with her, her uncle Vesemir. With a smile, for a moment she truly believed that despite the circumstances, they are still there, awaiting her return.
- In the next month. - Percival broke the silence - Ursun's roar will shatter the winter, making all roads more accessible and weather will become less hostile. When winter finally pass, I will take you to Erengrad and organize you some transport. Now, it is too risky, especially after your near death experience. Is that ok?
Ciri thought for moment about that. On the one hand, she wanted to avoid needlessly endangering her host and his grandson, but from the other, she practically died in the snowstorm when she first got here. She wasn't sure if Morr would give her a third chance if she die again.
- Sounds good for me. - She said - But we must leave right after this roar. Alright?
Percival nodded in agreement - I will organize some horses in the meantime, don't worry. - he added - Now please, go back into the house and sleep well. I plan something special for breakfast.
- Can't wait. - Ciri rose from her makeshift seat and walked towards the house. Before she opened the door, she again turned towards Percival, who didn't move even an inch.
- You should get some sleep too. - She said.
- Don't worry about me, just few moments and I will be done. Good night, Ciri.
- Good night, Percival. - she said, opened the door walked into the house and slowly closed to the door to not cause any noise.
Percival looked at the night sky again, and tilted his head to see his small candle, which gave a warming light.
- She reminds me of you. - he said to the candle - Good night, Annabell. - He said, and he blow out the candle.