The Witcher: Best Short Stories By Andrzej Sapkowski

Key Takeaways

The Witcher originated as short stories, defining Geralt’s character and building the world.
Memorable moments in the stories include Geralt’s deal with a djinn and a hunt for a golden dragon.
Geralt’s encounters with characters like Dudu and Ciri lay the foundation for the iconic saga.

As a dedicated fan of Andrzej Sapkowski‘s masterful works and someone who has lost countless hours immersed in the gritty world of The Witcher, I can confidently say that these short stories are more than mere tales – they’re time-honored memories etched deep within our collective consciousness. Each story weaves a unique tapestry that not only showcases the depth and richness of the universe, but also offers a glimpse into the lives of its characters as they navigate through trials, tribulations, and the occasional bout of humor.

Initially, The Witcher was merely a collection of short stories penned by Andrzej Sapkowski. However, it later transformed into an internationally acclaimed video game trilogy known for its exceptional writing, which was unforeseen at the time. This transformation happened when a small Polish video game company acquired the rights to this intellectual property and created one of the most renowned dark fantasy franchises in history.

After the triumph of Sapkowski’s short tales, a string of novels emerged, further illuminating the lore of Geralt and his diverse (and formidable) companions. The short stories are renowned for their exceptional character development and world creation, painting vivid pictures of numerous journeys undertaken by the protagonist, laying groundwork for several novels. These short stories offer an enjoyable read, demonstrating the intricate world-building that has become synonymous with the author’s now legendary works.

Attention! This summary contains plot details that reveal spoilers for The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny, a pair of short story compilations penned by Andrzej Sapkowski. Proceed with caution if you wish to avoid such revelations.

8 The Witcher

Features Geralt’s Iconic Fight With A Striga

Published in: The Last Wish

Many enthusiasts of The Witcher video game series recall the opening cinematic, where Geralt battles a striga and attempts to lift its curse – this scene is based on one of Sapkowski’s most memorable short stories.

To this very moment, players continue to appreciate the thrilling narrative and imaginative world construction found within this tale, vividly displaying the ominous folklore undertones reminiscent of The Witcher. The struggle of Geralt to endure until dawn and lift this curse leaves a lasting impression that fans can’t seem to tire of.

7 The Lesser Evil

The Story That Caused Geralt To Be Known As The Butcher Of Blaviken

Published in: The Last Wish

Geralt is often referred to by several nicknames, and The White Wolf is a complimentary title that reflects his reputation. However, a moniker he’s not particularly fond of is the Butcher of Blaviken, which he earned following his public massacre of foes in this town, an event he isn’t too keen on being reminded of.

Although Geralt was right in a technical sense by thwarting two malevolent groups and saving the townspeople from their schemes, his efforts resulted in their scorn rather than gratitude. Given Witchers’ notoriety as mutated beings, his actions of killing many without proper context made him an outsider and earned him the title “The Butcher of Blaviken.

6 A Question Of Price

A Series Of Events That Leads To Ciri Becoming Geralt’s Child Of Surprise

Published in: The Last Wish

The link between Geralt and Ciri’s destinies became apparent after the witcher intervened at Cintra’s castle. During a grand feast, disorder broke out when a cursed man unveiled himself as Pavetta’s beloved, setting off a series of events that eventually led Queen Calanthe to summon Geralt to resolve this predicament.

Over time, the spell over Duny is lifted once Pavetta is set to marry him. When they inquire about his desires, Geralt astounds everyone by invoking the Rule of Surprise, which subsequently leads to the disclosure that Pavetta is carrying a girl destined to become Ciri.

5 The Last Wish

An Encounter With A Djinn Leads To Geralt And Yennefer Being Bound By Destiny

Published in: The Last Wish

The intriguing dynamic between Geralt and Yennefer is one of the most captivating storylines found within the world of The Witcher. Their paths initially crossed by chance, but it was Geralt’s actions to counteract Yennefer’s intentions that forever intertwined their destinies.

Following Yennefer’s unsuccessful attempt to command a djinn’s power, Geralt shocks everyone by invoking the final wish, recognizing that he was actually the one who discovered the djinn, not Dandelion. In this moment, he wishes for an enduring bond with Yennefer and ignites one of the most passionate romances in dark fantasy literature.

4 The Bounds Of Reason

A Memorable Hunt For A Golden Dragon

Published in: Sword of Destiny

A captivating tale unfolds as Geralt embarks on a journey with a caravan, their target: a golden dragon. This quest provides a perfect opportunity for Geralt and Yennefer to reconnect, reigniting their romantic feelings. The appearance of the dragon, Villentretenmerth, adds an awe-inspiring element to the narrative in the books.

In her effort to overcome infertility by bargaining with a dragon, Yennefer is left with an aching sadness at her inability to bear a child. One of the captivating characters in the series is Borch Three Jackdaws, who initially presented himself in human form during their encounter.

3 Eternal Flame

Depicts Geralt’s First Encounter With Dudu

Published in: Sword of Destiny

In the game “The Witcher 3,” players need to discover the character named Dudu within Novigrad. This action brings Geralt one step nearer to locating Ciri. Readers of the books may recall the initial encounter between this fellow, known as Doppler, and Geralt (the White Wolf), an encounter that left a lasting impression on this city even before the game series began.

In disguise as a merchant called Dainty, Dudu sold his horses to acquire goods believed to be worthless. But, it later transpires this was a shrewd move as the items Dainty purchased were essential for building altars for the Eternal Fire across the city. This tale offers a humorous contrast to Sapkowski’s typically grim fantasy universe.

2 The Sword Of Destiny

Ciri And Geralt Meet For The First Time In Brokilon

Published in: Sword of Destiny

For the first time, Geralt and Ciri’s destinies intertwine in an unforgettable tale. Guided by the woodland inhabitants of Brokilon, Geralt is led deep into the forest, where he discovers a tragic sight – numerous children who had ventured too far.

This is where he initially crosses paths with Ciri, and it’s here that he negotiates her liberty from Queen Eithne of Brokilon. It’s an intriguing tale, and neither character could have foreseen the fateful bond that would link them through their very first meeting.

1 Something More

Geralt Tries To Locate Ciri After The Fall Of Cintra

Published in: Sword of Destiny

In the series, the devastating event known as the Fall of Cintra occurs when Nilfgaard invades the city, resulting in the queen’s death and their takeover. Shortly afterward, the Battle of Sodden unfolds, leading Geralt to the scene of destruction in search of a child who is fated to meet him according to the Law of Surprise.

In simpler terms, he thinks Ciri is no longer around following an unsuccessful hunt, and then goes to a merchant’s home where they’ve been caring for a girl who was lost during the Nilfgaardian invasion. Geralt is astounded when Ciri appears, and the two rush toward each other in joy, embracing tightly which strengthens their bond forever.

2024-11-09 15:34