Geralt is a Witcher--guardian of the innocent, protector of those in need, and in dark times a defender against some of the most frightening creatures of myth and legend. His task now is to protect Ciri. A child of prophecy, she will have the power to change the world for good or for ill--but only if she lives to use it. A coup threatens the wizard's guild, war breaks out across the lands, a serious injury leaves Geralt fighting for his life ... and Ciri, in whose hands the world's fate rests, has vanished.