Baptism of Fire

A 1996 fantasy novel and the third book in the main Witcher saga. After the events on Thanedd, Geralt is severely wounded and recovering in Brokilon. However, upon learning that Ciri is being held captive by the Emperor of Nilfgaard, he embarks on a journey to rescue her, forming an unlikely group along the way. He is joined by the bard Dandelion, the skilled archer Milva, the mysterious Nilfgaardian deserter Cahir, and the enigmatic vampire mercenary Regis. As they travel through war-torn lands, they face numerous dangers, including bandits and military forces, while Geralt slowly comes to terms with his role not only as a Witcher but as a leader. Meanwhile, Ciri continues her life with the gang known as "The Rats," losing more of her former self and adapting to a brutal world. This novel delves into themes of war, destiny, friendship, and personal transformation in the face of constant peril.