The Time of Contempt by Andrzej Sapkowski

In order to memorise them and not make a mistake when they are recounted, one has to have a truly golden head.Īnd the benefits of an arse of iron, oh, every messenger will swiftly learn those for himself. Difficult to pronounce, let alone remember. Word for word and at times those words are far from simple. The really important, secret tidings–those on which a great deal depended–must be committed to memory by the messenger and only repeated to the intended recipient. When talking to youngsters entering the service, Aplegatt usually told them that in order to make their living as mounted messengers two things would be necessary: a head of gold and an arse of iron.Ī head of gold is essential, Aplegatt instructed the young messengers, since in the flat leather pouch strapped to his chest beneath his clothing the messenger only carries news of less vital importance, which could without fear be entrusted to treacherous paper or manuscript. Delannoy, Myths and Legends of the Nordlings). are the heroes of numerous Nordling tales (cf. were said to have been the products of mutation or genetic engineering, has not found confirmation. fell into a trance, brought on, it is believed, by autohypnosis or intoxicating substances, and fought with pure energy, being utterly invulnerable to pain or even grave wounds, which reinforced the superstitions about their superhuman powers. were used by the rulers of the north in the tribal fighting they waged with each other. In reality, since they were unparalleled in their ability to wield weapons, v. were said to fight evil spirits, monsters and all manner of dark forces. In the folk consciousness, they are endowed with magical powers and superhuman abilities v.

Vedymins, called witchers among the Nordlings (q.v.), a mysterious and elite caste of warrior-priests, probably an offshoot of the druids (q.v.). Translated from original Polish by David French Read Excerpt Now you can enjoy the series for the first time in hardcover! Since its first publication in Poland almost three decades ago, The Witcher series has become a New York Times and international bestseller, has inspired a hit Netflix show and multiple blockbuster video games, and has transported millions of fans to an epic world of magic and adventure.

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. Geralt is a Witcher: guardian of the innocent protector of those in need a defender, in dark times, against some of the most frightening creatures of myth and legend.

In hardcover for the first time comes the second novel in the Witcher saga by bestselling author Andrzej Sapkowski, in which Geralt of Rivia sends his ward Ciri to train with the sorceress Yennefer, even as trouble stirs within the Wizard's Guild.

The Time of Contempt by Andrzej Sapkowski