The sun had barely risen, yet the world was already ablaze with the song of life. Dew clung to the leaves like diamonds, refracting the soft golden rays, setting the world aglow. Within this vibrant tableau, the clattering of steel cut through the serenity, scattering a congregation of birds into the sky.

In the heart of the noise stood Cirilla Fiona Elen Riannon, her bright ashen hair caught up in a loose ponytail. Sweat trickled down her brow, her breath hitched in the sharp morning air. She clutched her silver sword with a white-knuckled grip, her emerald eyes fiercely focused on the training dummy ahead of her. Her scar, a stark line drawn across her cheek, seemed almost to glow.

With a primal yell, she launched herself at the dummy, her sword cutting through the air with precision and speed. The dull thud of her blade meeting the straw dummy echoed around the empty training yard. The intensity of her strikes reflected her relentless spirit, a fiery defiance etched into each blow.

She took a step back, panting, and wiped her brow with the back of her hand. Then, standing tall, she looked up at the sky, her gaze caught by a bird soaring free above her.

Ah, Zireael, the Swallow,

she said aloud to herself, using her witcher name, her voice clear yet softened with longing.

How I envy your freedom.

She turned back to the training dummy, her eyes flashing with renewed determination.

But I am Ciri, the Lion Cub of Cintra, and I have my own battles to fight. My own destiny to forge.

She sheathed her sword, her gaze set upon the far horizon, the potential threats and opportunities it held for her. Then, she muttered a few words under her breath, a sorcerous incantation known only to her, gifted by her Elder Blood. Her figure shimmered, ready to disappear into thin air at her command.

I have to go,

she announced to the world, as if bidding it goodbye, her tone resolute.

There are places to see, worlds to conquer, and I've no time to tarry. Besides,

she added with a touch of mischief in her voice,

who's to say where a witcher's path might lead?

And just as she was about to invoke her power, a new sound echoed through the training yard, pulling her back to reality. It was the sound of a voice, gruff and familiar. She tensed, ready to face whatever—or whoever—was coming.