One eyebrow lifts. It's not quite that Geralt wasn't expecting to hear it, but it was not something he predicted, either. Maybe the most accurate way to say it is that he hadn't actually given any thought to how Istredd might feel about this place. In a sense, it tracks. Yennefer is here—he assumes that is who Istredd is referring to—and from what he knows, the man has little connection to the Brotherhood's political goals.

Thorne no doubt encourages his study of the monoliths. Much like Nilfgaard. The similarities have always been there.

"A balance is still needed," he replies simply. Some knowledge is not meant to be learned. Doesn't need to be. But he has no desire to interfere in what Istredd chooses to do or meddle in. Geralt's wishes have been the same from the start: he'll protect his family, whatever that means. As long as Istredd's aims do not interfere with that, they can coexist fine. And it is true they cannot do without any answers at all.

He just understands how easy it is to open doors you cannot close. And that you are lucky, usually, if you are the only one who pays the price. Often, it's those around you.

He rises to his feet. He's said what he came to say, and Istredd is in one piece. "Try not run into any more daggers."