96 Meeting the Goddess of the Lake

That night, the campfire outside the green dragon's lair was bustling with activity.

Witcher, Bard, knight, sorcerers, mage, dragons, and cute young dragon—individuals of different races and professions—all gathered around the fire, sharing a simple dinner and engaging in conversations about various topics of interest. As the night wore on, they bid farewell to each other, going their separate ways.

Jaskier, despite completing his studies earlier in the year, remained restless. Upon the conclusion of the dragon-hunting incident, he was already planning his next adventure to explore other countries and uncover more stories to weave into poetry.

Geralt, ever the participant in major events, always seemed to turn danger into good fortune. Whether this was luck or something else entirely remained a mystery.

Although the magician Dorrigarey didn't offer much assistance during the ordeal, Borch, in his generosity, gifted him a piece of dragon scale. While not a particularly valuable token, it perfectly suited the mage's belief in the balance of all things, forging a good relationship between them.

As for the dragons, they intended to remain in the cave for a few more days. They would wait until the green dragon's injuries fully healed and the young dragon grew a bit more before departing with the warriors of the Zerrikan tribe. Borch would then fulfill his promise to visit Wayne and deliver the reward he had pledged.

"What? Are you going to meet the goddess of the lake?" Geralt's surprise was evident in his voice as he glanced at Wayne, finding his calm expression somewhat amusing. The notion of visiting the goddess of the lake seemed almost comically casual coming from Wayne.

Wayne affirmed Geralt's query with a nod, casting a glance at Yennefer beside him. He explained, "Yes, I promised Yennefer to seek the assistance of the Goddess of the Lake in helping her regain her fertility, if possible. Additionally, I have my own inquiries for the goddess."

Upon hearing Wayne's words, Geralt silently observed Yennefer, knowing well the deep desire she harbored for motherhood. He couldn't help but wonder about the implications of her regaining fertility, particularly in their line of work where such personal matters were often overshadowed by the dangers they faced.

Yennefer, touched by Wayne's commitment to her cause, expressed her gratitude. "Thank you, Wayne. If you help me achieve this wish, I will never forget your kindness."

With neither Geralt nor Yennefer voicing objections, Wayne turned his attention to the forgotten figure of Knight Eyck in the corner.

Eyck from Denesle had fallen into a somber silence since waking up, seemingly aware of his disability and grappling with a loss of motivation to continue. Wayne didn't extend much sympathy toward him, merely feeling a twinge of pity.

"Geralt, when I go to meet the goddess of the lake later, you can accompany us with Knight Eyck on your back," Wayne suggested, considering the possibility of divine intervention for Ike's condition. "Ordinary means may not heal him, but if the Goddess is willing, there may be hope yet."

The decision to save Eyck ultimately lay with the goddess herself. Eyck was a complex figure, perceived as both virtuous and flawed depending on one's perspective. While not exemplary in his familial roles, his devoutness and combat prowess made him a potentially valuable convert to the Goddess of the Lake's faith.

Taking Eyck to the goddess was not just an act of mercy but also a strategic move in alignment with her beliefs.

Leaving the green dragon's lair, the group didn't venture far. Wayne knew from the goddess's previous communication that any lake would serve as a conduit for contact with her, regardless of size. Spotting a small lake during their flight on the green dragon, they made it their destination.

As for their mounts, Lucifer had been preserved well, as had Yennefer's steed through magic. However, Geralt's horse, hadn't been as fortunate, having been partially consumed by wild beasts. Wayne arranged for Geralt to choose a replacement from the mounts of the three deceased brothers. Unsurprisingly, Geralt opted for a younger mare.

Wayne led Geralt and Yennefer into the forest but refrained from bringing them directly to the lake without the goddess's consent, adhering to etiquette. Instead, he requested they wait several hundred meters away. If the goddess agreed, he would then introduce them.

Alone by the tranquil lake, Wayne approached its edge, gazing at the clear, mirror-like water. Following the teachings of the goddess, he extended his ring-adorned right hand into the water, silently invoking her name. As he did so, the ring transformed into a strand of golden hair, responding to his thoughts. The hair, still connected to his finger, extended towards the center of the lake.

With a soul-stirring chime, ripples spread from the center, revealing the goddess standing atop the water's surface. Adorned in a white gauze, she exuded a serene aura, her blue eyes akin to the sky fixed upon Wayne. She spoke softly, inquiring, "My warrior, you summoned me. Do you need help?"

Wayne, initially struck with admiration, respectfully bowed his head in acknowledgment before speaking. "Yes, My lady. I do have a few inquiries I would like to ask you about."