Witcher: The Half Elf

"Queen, there's no need to be anxious. I've just arrived and have little understanding of the situation. Asking me to devise a plan right now is premature," Wayne said in a measured tone as he casually took a seat opposite Archdruid Mousesack.

The old druid, who appeared much the same as he had five years ago, acknowledged Wayne's arrival with a warm smile and a respectful nod.

Realizing her impatience, Queen Calanthe pursed her lips, unwilling to admit any fault but softening her tone slightly. "Let Yennefer and Geralt explain the specifics. They've been investigating for days and should know more than I do."

Her voice grew firm as she added, "But mark my words, Pavetta is my only daughter. Nothing must happen to her. And if there is an enemy behind this, they will learn how terrifying an enraged mother can be."

Wayne nodded, understanding the weight of her words. Pavetta had been missing for nearly ten days. Calanthe's worry as a mother was not only justified but also palpable.

His precautionary visit to the Dryad Queen, Eithné, to seek her prophecy was a calculated step. Despite his knowledge of future events from certain plotlines, Wayne was no clairvoyant. The Dryad Queen's insights added a layer of foresight to his otherwise practical approach.

About half an hour later, Yennefer entered the council chamber with Geralt and a younger female sorceress in tow.

After exchanging brief pleasantries, Geralt and Yennefer began recounting their findings.

Wayne leaned forward, listening intently as Geralt outlined the details of their investigation. Scratching his chin thoughtfully, he summarized aloud:

"So, according to your findings, a cloaked figure was seen multiple times near Princess Pavetta's residence in the days leading up to her disappearance. This individual hasn't been seen since the princess vanished."

"Given the traces of chaos magic and the circumstances, it's highly likely this person is a sorcerer and possibly the mastermind behind the abduction."

Geralt nodded, his expression grim, before glancing at Yennefer, silently urging her to elaborate.

The raven-haired sorceress, her arms crossed in a gesture of deep focus, spoke in her characteristic measured tone:

"I've examined those areas myself. The traces of chaos magic are undeniable—it's definitely the work of a sorcerer. What's more troubling is the familiarity of the dark magical signature."

She paused briefly, her violet eyes narrowing. "It reminds me of the dark magic used by the fallen sorcerer we encountered in the fog years ago. It's faint, but the similarity is unmistakable. I suspect the dark sorcerer society may be behind this kidnapping."

Queen Calanthe's face darkened. She slammed her palm against the armrest of her throne, her voice trembling with fury:

"I've heard of these vermin—an evil faction that has emerged since the events in Kaedwen. They're said to consort with monsters, hiding in forests, ruins, and other desolate places. They've attacked villages, kidnapped travelers, and even led assaults on towns!"

Her anger simmered, her eyes blazing with resolve. "And now they dare target the royal family of Cintra? I'll make them pay. The Brotherhood of Sorcerers will hear of this—they've neglected their responsibilities for too long!"

Wayne, calm as ever, held back a smirk. While Calanthe's anger was justified, he doubted the Dark Sorcerers Society's capabilities in orchestrating such an intricate abduction. Most of its members were now fragmented or weakened, especially after Demon King Baal's demise and the sealing of the dark realm.

Their involvement suggested either a more powerful entity behind the scenes or a diversion for another agenda.

Clearing his throat, Wayne addressed the Queen in a measured tone:

"Your Majesty, I understand your frustration. But I strongly advise against involving the Brotherhood of Sorcerers."

Seeing Calanthe's eyes narrow, he quickly explained:

"Princess Pavetta's ancient blood is a closely guarded secret. If word spreads, it could attract not just the Brotherhood's attention but also individuals obsessed with exploiting her lineage."

"Should the secret of her ancient blood become public knowledge, it won't just be monsters or rogue sorcerers who threaten her. Even those with noble reputations might take risks for the power her blood represents."

His words were firm yet respectful. "If we are to secure her safety, we must act with discretion. Exposing this secret could endanger her life permanently."

Calanthe's expression wavered, her fiery resolve tempered by a mother's fear. She turned to her husband, King Eist, as if seeking his counsel.

As a seasoned sailor who had navigated countless violent storms, King Eist had exceptional composure. He didn't panic but instead sighed, gently patting his wife's hand.

"My dear, we've invited Wayne, Geralt, and the skilled sorceresses, Yennefer and Isa, to help us in this matter. We also have Archdruid Mousesack lending his wisdom," he said in a calm and reassuring tone.

"Let's leave this to the professionals. Our role is to support them discreetly. If things take an unexpected turn and cannot be resolved, then we can approach the Brotherhood of Sorcerers for assistance."

...

By the time Wayne left the palace, evening had fallen. Leading his group, he returned to the luxurious hotel that Syanna had purchased. Geralt and Yennefer had also decided to move there, drawn by the comfort and convenience.

As members of the Witcher Order, both Geralt and Yennefer had become accustomed to Wayne's penchant for luxury. Having seen the literal mountains of gold Wayne kept in Kaer Morhen, they no longer found his extravagant lifestyle surprising. Instead, they gradually embraced the perks of wealth, especially Geralt, who had upgraded his daily necessities to match those of the wealthy.

Sitting in the opulent hall on the first floor, Geralt swirled a glass of fine red wine in his hand, his brows furrowed slightly as he addressed Wayne.

"What's your take on this, Wayne? If the Dark Sorcerer's Society is really behind it, how do we deal with them?"

Geralt's unease was evident. Dealing with monsters was one thing—most were predictable, even if dangerous. Sorcerer, however, were a different story entirely. Their mastery of curses and destructive spells made them far more lethal adversaries.

The harrowing experience of being ambushed by fallen sorcerers three years ago still haunted Geralt. He couldn't shake the fear that this time he might not be as lucky.

Wayne noticed his brother's concern and patted him on the shoulder reassuringly.

"I've already got a plan. Leave this to me," Wayne said confidently.

"Tomorrow, I want you and Yennefer to stay at the palace. Your primary task will be to ensure the safety of Queen Calanthe and young Ciri."

Wayne hesitated for a moment before continuing, his tone becoming more serious.

"Geralt, there's something I need to tell you—something important."

Geralt, sensing the shift in Wayne's demeanor, set his glass down and leaned forward.

"What is it, Wayne?" he asked, his voice equally serious.

Wayne paused briefly before speaking.

"I met your child of destiny today—Ciri," he said softly.

"She's still young and hasn't shown any outward signs yet, but I can sense it. The concentration of ancient blood in her veins is purer than her mother's, Princess Pavetta. Among all the descendants of Lara Dorren, she is the purest carrier of this lineage."

Wayne's gaze was steady as he continued, his voice tinged with a mix of caution and reverence.

"The Dryad Queen Eithné once prophesied that a child of the Elder Blood would one day determine the fate of the world. For a long time, I thought that prophecy referred to me—that I was the destined one."

"But now, seeing Ciri, I'm not so sure. Her bloodline is extraordinary. If her powers awaken, she will undoubtedly become entangled in the chaos and turmoil of destiny. Troubles will follow her as surely as the tides."

Geralt's face tightened with worry.

"No one must know about this—not until her bloodline awakens," Wayne added, his tone resolute. "If word gets out, there will be no end to the people who'll seek to use her for their own gain."

After a pause, Wayne offered a final piece of advice:

"Geralt, you need to think carefully about how to protect her.