[ Jaskier is probably better suited to this. To talking. Cajoling, even. But Ciri wonders if the bard's charms work on Alucard as well as they do on so many others.

She hangs back slightly, doing her best to keep her stance relaxed, her posture unassuming. It's not because Alucard is a wolf or even a vampire; it's because she feels wound tight enough to snap, and she needs to take a few breaths before she can speak without knives in her throat. ]

We think he was attacked in the desert. [ She supplies finally, stepping forward to stand beside Jaskier. There is no doubt the wolf is Alucard, not with that scar, and Ciri looks him in the eyes, holding his gaze. ] But the trail goes cold after a certain point. At least-- to human senses.

If you could lend us your assistance, just for a short time... It needn't be for free.

[ They're not friends, even if she has been friendly and he's been... tolerant. But she's not asking for a favor for nothing, if that's not the sort of man Alucard is. Ciri understands that. ]