Queen Calanthe quotes from The Witcher

Queen Calanthe

If we must do this now, here's your first lesson. As in life, it is impossible always to be fully prepared for battle. Keep your sword close, and keep moving.

Queen Calanthe

Lesson number two: know when it's time to stop moving.

Queen Calanthe

In the face of the inevitable, Cirilla, good leaders should always choose mercy. In the future, you will be wise to do the same.

Queen Calanthe

And if I win the war but lose Ciri, what victory is that?

Calanthe

Perhaps our esteemed guest can entertain us with how he slayed the elves at the edge of the world?

Geralt

There was no slaying. I had my arse kicked by a ragged band of elves. I was about to have my throat cut, when Filavandrel let me go.

But the song!

Jaskier

[through clenched teeth] Yeah, the song.

Geralt

At least when Filavandrel's blade kissed my throat I didn't shit myself, which is all I can hope for you good lords. [raises his tankard] At your final breath, a shitless death. [takes a drink; sotto voce] But I doubt it.

Geralt

(After saving Duny who insists that Geralt be rewarded) Fine. I claim the tradition as you have. The Law of Surprise. Give me what you have but do not know.

Calanthe

(horrified) No! What have you done witcher?

Geralt

Fear not your majesty, if I'm seen in your kingdom again it will be to kill a real monster. Not lay claim to a new crop or a new pup. Destiny can go fu- (Interrupted by Pavetta vomiting) Fuck.

Geralt

First you try to kill me. Then you lie to me. I'm just trying to keep Cirilla safe.

Queen Calanthe

Ciri is safe, with me, until the day she takes over my throne.

Geralt

Listen to me.

Queen Calanthe

I did listen once. Let a hedgehog into my court, it got me Pavetta dead. I won't lose Ciri too. So you and destiny can both fuck right off. Because if Nilfgaard comes, will destiny carry a banner into battle? No, we have an army, a navy, and me.

Geralt

A dynasty can't survive on arrogance alone.

Queen Calanthe

Says a Witcher. She needs family, you know nothing about that. Your mother cared so little, she discarded you.

Geralt

And you lecture me on a mother's love, yet offer up someone else's daughter.

Queen Calanthe

Queen to all of Cintra, grandmother to one. I won't orphan that girl.