GERALT
Three weeks had passed since Geralt sent the letter to Rein Winterbane. The journey north had been grueling, filled with harsh winds. Yet now, the towering peaks of Frostspire Keep loomed ahead, cutting through the gray sky.
Geralt's breath was steady, but doubt lingered in his mind. Would Rein be the same man he once knew? Or had time and distance turned them into strangers? He tightened his grip on the reins, urging his horse forward, each step bringing him closer to an uncertain reunion.
The years apart weighed heavily on him. What awaited beyond those gates? An old ally, or a distant ruler with no place for past bonds? Geralt had prepared for either. He knew one thing for certain as the keep's walls grew closer: there was no turning back now.
Geralt's gaze landed on Frostspire Keep, its imposing silhouette looming a kilometer away. A thrill of excitement surged through him as he snapped the reins, urging his horse into a swift gallop.
Geralt glanced back, but his group was nowhere in sight. In the next moment, a chill swept over him, sending goosebumps across his skin. He urged his horse to turn around, but no matter how far he rode, there was nothing in sight. After what felt like ages, a vision flashed before him—his battle with Vyreth. He could hear Vyreth speaking in the ancient tongue of High Velqaar.
"Norr e'gal'thar ven, Vorun e'valr ven. Zira velra'kel, nira kanthar vorun e'valr ven," Vyreth muttered under his breath.
Suddenly, Geralt's Royal Sentinel called out, "Your Majesty, wait!"
Geralt turned and saw his Royal Sentinel approaching. Behind him, the royal carriage came into view, and a wave of relief washed over him. He glanced back at the sentinel and said, "Ser James."
"Your Majesty, are you alright?" Ser James asked, noticing the sweat on Geralt's face despite the cold.
Geralt gave a brief nod. "Let's return to the group."
"But, Your Majesty, we're already so close to Frostspire Keep," Ser James replied, glancing past Geralt.
As Geralt turned back and saw the hill, Frostspire Keep loomed ahead, shrouded in mist and enveloped by lush forests. Its towering spires and intricate stonework, along with ornate windows, evoked a sense of awe and mystery. The overcast sky cast a dramatic shadow over the ancient fortress, enhancing its haunting beauty and making Geralt feel the weight of its history.
Frostspire Keep : https://imgur.com/a/iDNgeLR
Gazing at Frostspire Keep, Geralt urged, "Let's move; the others will be here soon." With a swift motion, he spurred his horse onward.
REIN
After the arrival of the letter, the entire Frostspire Keep busied itself with preparations for Geralt Stormrider and his family. Rein Winterbane was also occupied with the arrangements. While he was discussing details with the workers, Seneschal Henrik approached and said, "My lord, I've received word that His Majesty and his Royal Sentinel were seen near Frostspire Keep."
Hearing this, Rein felt a twinge of unease and asked, "Only His Majesty and Ser James?"
"Yes, the others were said to be following close behind," Henrik responded.
Rein glanced around. "Where's Adeline?"
"Lady Adeline is already at the main hall entrance," Henrik answered.
"Then go find Lyra, Jareth, and Ronan, and send them there," Rein ordered before heading toward the main hall entrance.
ADELINE
Adeline stood at the entrance of the grand hall, waiting for Rein and the children to arrive so they could greet Geralt together.
Sensing Rein's presence beside her, she turned, arms crossed in irritation. "Rein, why are you so late? And where are the children?" she asked, her tone sharp.
"I apologize, my lady," he murmured, placing his hands gently on her waist, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips.
Before she could fully react to his touch or the playful smile, Lyra darted past her, a flash of movement with Ronan's sword clutched tightly in her hands.
"Lyra!" Adeline shouted, her voice sharp as she watched her daughter sprint off with the iron sword.
Ronan, her eldest, was right behind, chasing after her. Before he could catch up, Henrik swiftly intercepted, lifting Lyra and bringing her back to Adeline's side. Jareth had already made his way over to Rein.
Adeline's eyes blazed with anger. "What in the world are you two doing?"
Lyra handed Ronan's sword back with a defiant look. "He said I can't do any fighting."
"Ronan!" Adeline snapped, glaring at Ronan.
"I was just teasing, mother," Ronan said, sheathing his sword with a grin.
Before Adeline could respond, Henrik stepped forward. "My lord, His Majesty has arrived."
In a rush, everyone gathered in order. Rein stood at the front, followed by Adeline, then Ronan, Jareth, and Lyra.
REIN
As Geralt dismounted his horse, Rein and the others immediately dropped into a deep bow, sinking to the ground. With one knee bent and the other folded beneath him, Rein sat in a position of respect, his head bowed low.
Looking down, Rein spoke with unwavering respect, "I, Rein Winterbane, Lord of Coldcave and Dragon's Hill, bow before you, the Protector of the Nine Lands. Under your reign, the skies hold their breath and the earth stands still, for your power commands all that is and all that will be."
"Get up," Geralt commanded.
Rein stood, locking eyes with him.
"You haven't changed at all, you damn Winterbane," Geralt said with a laugh, pulling Rein into a hug.
"After 19 years?" Geralt asked.
"Yes, Your Majesty," Rein replied.
Geralt released him, shaking his head. "To hell with this 'Your Majesty' nonsense. That title weakens our bond."
Rein smiled. "Don't worry, Your Majesty. A word can't sever the bond between the disciples of the deities."
Still grinning, Geralt turned to Adeline and embraced her. "You've gained a little weight, Adeline."
Letting her go, he added, "You're misusing your power, Your Majesty," she said with a smile.
Geralt and Rein laughed together.
Geralt glanced at Lyra. "You've got a beautiful daughter."
Rein gave a nod. "You should rest, Your Majesty. The journey must've been exhausting."
"Shut up and follow me, Rein," Geralt said, heading towards the basement.
Rein exchanged a glance with Adeline and Henrik, then followed. Once they were alone where no one could overhear, Rein's face grew serious.
"Is something wrong?" he asked with concern. After a pause, he added softly, "Geralt?"
Geralt met his gaze and said, "Rebellion is in the air."