Yennefer is lured back to Aretuza where the brotherhood has convened to discuss Nilfgaard's rise to power and potential to overthrow the order of things. After a vote, the brotherhood agrees to allow Cintra to defend itself, leaving Nilfgaard to seize them without the magical assistance of mages. After being scolded about abandoning his destiny, Geralt returns to Cintra to check on his child surprise. Concerned about the safety of the child, Geralt urges Queen Calanthe to let him take Ciri away until the kingdom is safe for her to return. Queen Calanthe refuses and Geralt is imprisoned. Shortly after, Nilfgaard invades Cintra. Mousesack attempts to find Geralt, who by then, has escaped the dungeon, leaving his child surprise behind.