[ He waits for Ciri in the stables, Roach already set to go. Even for shorter day trips, Geralt has a habit of packing as usual—never a downside to being prepared—and the sky is only beginning to lighten as they ride. (He gives her breakfast along the way.)

He lets Ciri choose the spot, one she's familiar with and feels safe practicing in. He makes sure there are no monsters nearby that might be attracted, no signs of recent travellers or wagons.

Nenneke taught him a long time ago. He has not forgotten her lessons. Aard is the first one he learned. It's the easiest Sign for a Witcher boy to grasp, requiring only a quick burst of magic redirected and no lengthy concentration. For Ciri, though, he thinks it may remind her too much of her scream. He wants to find something that won't echo a power she's always had difficulty controlling. ]

We'll start with Yrden. [ He leads her to a small cave entrance. ] When I first learned this, it would always shatter instantly. Nenneke told me to think of it not as keeping something out, but sealing it in. A containment. [ He lifts his hand and as his fingers close, the magic hums. A faint glow forms over the opening. ]