One shot prompt: Geralt thought he had beaten them all, but there's always one last fucking drowner. And today was a bad fucking day for that to happen.
Okay I didn't proof read this so please excuse any grammatical errors. Enjoy!!
Geralt grunted as he plunged his silver sword into the last drowner. It crumpled to its knees and fell face-first into the filthy water.
He sneered at the foul corpse. The scent of rotting fish leaked from its open wound. Geralt sheathed his sword, silently promising it he would clean it before the days end. He wouldn’t be able to handle the stench for much longer.
Geralt sighed as he looked amongst the fallen drowners, searching for any slight movement. But they were all dead. “Good riddance,” he muttered, stretching his neck.
He had only just cleared this area out a few days ago and just when he thought he could stroll through it carelessly, a fucking drowner pounced at him through the thick shrubs. His anger, perhaps it was actually annoyance, had reached an all time high today. He looked up at the rising sun. And it was only dawn. This was already not Geralt’s day.
It was time to move onward. Follow through with his original task. The lovely Keira Metz asked for some herbs that grew in the swamps nearby. And of course, Geralt said yes.
Geralt looked ahead, sensing the herbs were closer than he realized and took a step forward. His foot squished in the mud and sunk further and further. The swamp filth climbing up to his calf.
“This is great.” Geralt murmured to himself. “This is just great.”
He yanked his foot out, the mud clinging to his boot, and stepped elsewhere. His foot began to sink again but Geralt moved quicker. He would run out of this swamp if he had to.
Geralt sensed something behind him and whipped his head back. A bird flew off.
Geralt grunted and turned his attention forward, but the great witcher was too slow. His mud sodden boot clipped a patch of twigs and he sailed forward, the brown water awaiting him.
But he balanced himself with one hand, the warm water seeping down his tunic as he pushed himself upward. Once he was upright and stable, Geralt closed his eyes. Trying to calm himself and lower the boiling annoyance that was beginning to build up too much.
He heard water splash behind him. He shot his eyes open and tilted his head slightly. Waiting for another sound. Suddenly, the smell of fish penetrated his senses, and he whipped around so fast that the ordinary man would’ve puked.
Geralt already had his sword out and the drowner before him screeched, its fins glistening with the murky water.
“Are you fucking kidding me,” Geralt said to the drowner, as if it could understand him. “I thought I killed all of you.”
The drowner screeched again and took a step forward.
Geralt rolled his eyes. “Let us be done with it.”
He wasted no time for the drowner to lunge and swiftly transverse the swampy terrain, partly wondering why he had such trouble earlier, and sliced upward, cutting the drowner in two. Just like that.
Geralt sneered at the drowner as it’s faltering screams felt like heaven against his ears. “Couldn’t even hold up a fight.”
Geralt sheathed his sword yet again and turned around, finally heading toward the herbs that Keira so desperately needed, in her words not his.
He couldn’t wait until he was out of this swamp. He couldn’t bare to deal with another drowner for a long fucking time. The filth that littered their guts had almost even Geralt puking. He would not venture to this area for a very long time. Even if Keira needed something else. She could get it her –
A shriek in the distance yanked Geralt out of his thoughts and he tore his eyes away from the ground, he would not trip again, and looked up. Just on the cusp of the swamp, partly hidden behind the trees was a fucking drowner.
Geralt’s eyes twitched and his lip curled in disgust. He huffed out a breath and stalked toward the drowner, but he didn’t go all the way. He made a sharp turn halfway and waltzed up to one he had slain earlier. It’s head feet away from the already rotting corpse. Without taking away his gaze from the drowner who had taken a curious step out, he kicked the drowners head and it flew through the air.
Geralt didn’t care where it landed, it made no difference to him. Not as he screamed with hours, days, months even worth of annoyance.
The drowner took a step backward, pausing just for a moment, and turned back, sauntering further into the woods.
Geralt sighed loudly, his throat now raw and glared at the swamp.
His nose pricked as he tasted a familiar scent on his tongue. He didn’t even bother looking behind him.
“What was that?” Keira said, her voice filled partially with concern but he could feel the smile on her face.
“I’ve had a bad day,” Geralt grunted.
“I can see that.”
“Why are you here?” Geralt turned to face Keira, her blinding blonde hair a stark contrast to the ugliness around them.
“I needed your help with something else. I was unable to acquire the stone I needed.”
Geralt tried not to sigh. “And why not?”
Keira wrinkled her nose. “Well, it’s holed up in an inhabited cave nearby.”
“What exactly lives in it?”
Keira pursed her lips and in a small voice that only Geralt could hear, said “Drowners.”
Hey! So I was wondering if you could write about Dettlaff x Tomira, where these two are picking herbs and stuff, but it is very warm day and Tomira desides to just take a dip in the lake and Dettlaff chooses to join her😁
Your wish is my command:
**
Tomira stared at her herb garden, a soft sigh pushing through her parted lips, before she tugs on her gloves and begins to work in the blazing Temerian sun.
She had sent Dettlaff off to collect a few items from Willis to make the job easier, but he had yet to return, and the garden wasn't going to weed itself.
Instead, she knelt before the grow beds and began to gingerly pluck the weeds from the tilled soil. With a sigh, she realized she'd have to fertilize it again after harvesting the herbs, blast the weather they'd been having, but thankfully this batch of Cortinarius had yet to reach full maturity.
As she gracefully allowed her fingers to dig out the weeds, she felt an all-too-familiar presence approach from behind, drawing a soft smile to her lips.
"I was wondering if I needed to send a guard to find you." She chuckled, turning her head to glance at Dettlaff over her shoulder. "Did Willis give you any trouble?"
"On the contrary, he was quite polite." Dettlaff replied, handing Tomira the trowel she had requested. "Appearances can be misleading, little petal."
Little Petal... He had begun calling her that after a few months of seeing each other. She adored the nickname, insisted he referred to her as such more often, and he was all too pleased to grant her wish.
She felt his hands come to tangle in her hair, gently pulling her dark locks back and tying them to the top of her head, freeing her neck from the heat it trapped. A soft sigh of relief pushed through her as she settled once more, watching him as he knelt beside her.
"Thank you, jedyna moja." Tomira replied, leaning over to press a kiss to Dettlaff's cheek before resuming her task.
Dettlaff smiled at the term of endearment, counting himself blessed to have found such a treasure of his own in this world full of lies and deceit. With Syanna, he felt nothing short of heartbreak and the cruelty of humanity, but with Tomira... With her he felt nothing but love and adoration. And knew it was reciprocated in all the best ways.
He lingered on thoughts of their time tangled within the sheets of her bed, or the time they had camped out together in Beauclair, enjoying wine with Geralt and Yennefer, only to sneak out into the fields and make love beneath the twinkling stars above.
Tomira cleared her throat, startling him from his thoughts as a slight flush came to his cheeks.
"Such a naughty man." She teased, nudging him with her shoulder, earning a chuckle from him as he turned his piercing blue gaze to meet her beautiful honey eyes. "I know you weren't thinking about the garden, Dettlaff."
"Oh? And just what do you think I was thinking of, little petal?" He prodded, taking hold of her hand and lacing his fingers with hers, gazing intently at her, a coy smile on his lips.
"The answer is obvious, jedyna moja... You were thinking of me." She smiled, her nose crinkling as a brilliant tint of pink rose to her cheeks. "And what wicked thoughts I'm sure you'll share with me later."
"Only if you wish to know them, moje serce." He replied, smirking as the blush on her cheeks only grew.
He released her hand and she quickly got back to weeding the garden. He followed suit, tending carefully to the Honeysuckle vines before taking on the Mandrake root himself.
Hours passed in relative silence, with Dettlaff stealing glances at Tomira every so often, finding himself falling deeper and deeper in love with the herbalist. His eyes softened as he watched her wipe sweat from her brow, and he placed his tools down before walking into the hut. Grabbing a mug of water, he brought it back outside and handed it to her with a peck to the top of her head.
"Drink, little petal. Even the staunchest blooms require water." He hummed, brushing his knuckles over her cheek before returning to his plot, pulling out the weeds from the soil with a small smile on his face.
Tomira blinked, but thanked him and drank, feeling immediate relief as the cool water coated her throat, hydrating her beneath the harsh rays of the sun.
Once they had finished their work in the gardens, Tomira looked to the sky, watching the sun begin to make its way closer to the horizon, dispelling the heat of the day and leaving it to a cool breeze in the early evening.
She smiled, discarding her gloves back inside before stepping back out, meeting Dettlaff near the plot he had just finished weeding.
"Come with me." She hummed, taking hold of his hand and leading him off towards an undisclosed location.
He was confused at first, following behind her dutifully, making sure she made it to wherever it was they were going, until she released his hand at the edge of a clearing.
Deep within the woods, a spring had been made by the melting of winter's snow and a hole that had eroded in the ground, leaving it filled with cool, crisp water that went untouched by human hands. He stepped into the clearing behind Tomira, gazing at the clear water with a glint in his eyes.
"How long have you known about this place, moje serce? It looks untouched... Undefiled."
"That's because it is. I found it a few years ago, before I met you. It's the only natural spring in White Orchard." She explained, stepping towards the edge of the water, pulling her boots off, then her tunic, before finally discarding her trousers.
Dettlaff watched her intently, his earlier thoughts returning full force as he watched his chosen one step into the water in only her undergarments, a soft sigh leaving her as she settled beneath the water, cooling herself from the long day of toiling in the sun. She turned to him with a smile, extending her hand towards him.
"Come join me?" She questioned, gazing at him with that look that made him weak in the knees.
He discarded his own clothing, hanging his cloak on a tree branch before discarding the rest of his outfit, leaving him in only the breeches he wore beneath. With grace and fluidity, he approached the spring and stepped in beside Tomira, settling in himself within the cool water at her side.
"This is... Different." He noted, cupping the water and lifting his hand from beneath, gazing at the clear, clean liquid. "Not like the lakes in Beauclair at all. This is so clean... It reminds me of home."
Dettlaff very rarely spoke of his home, and Tomira never questioned him about it either. All she knew was that he was a member of an ancient vampire tribe called the Gharasham, who settled around the North after the Conjunction. Beyond that, she neither knew nor cared. All she cared for was the man who had once saved her life, and then proudly remained at her side from then on.
She moved to kneel before him, pushing him back just slightly so she could straddle his lap, gazing deep into his eyes as her arms made their way around his neck, holding herself close to him.
"I love you more than anything, Dettlaff... More than this life will ever give me the chance to express." She breathed, her right hand tangling in his dark hair before she leaned in and kissed him, feeling him reciprocate as his hands came to rest on her waist.
"And I feel the same for you, little petal... More than words would ever do justice in explaining." He huffed, gripping her hips just a little tighter as he pulled her closer to his chest, holding her in his arms as she pressed her face into the crook of his neck.
"Is being a vampire really so bad, jedyna moja?" She questioned, curling closer to him, feeling him beneath her. "Is that why you hesitate to claim me fully as yours?"
Dettlaff paused, his arms wrapping securely around her, shielding her from an unknown predator as he gazed up at the darkening sky. He sighed, turning his head to kiss her temple, feeling her shiver against him.
"It is not a gift I would ever give you, no matter how greatly I will suffer when you are no longer of this world." He began, his hands gently running over her back, feeling the tense muscles relax beneath his tender touch. "What you experience as a human would be lost to vampirism. Everything I feel, I feel intensely, and I do not wish to ever see you lose your humanity for an extended life. I care too deeply for you to see that happen."
Tomira shook with unshed tears, knowing that this was not an easy conversation for either of them. She wished for eternal life as a vampire so she could be forever by his side, but he refused to give into her demands, reminding her that her life had value just as it was, and no amount of time spent together would ever make him chance changing her.
"I wish you wouldn't say that..." She spoke, a wet chuckle leaving her lips as she leaned back, gazing down at him with glossy eyes.
"It is the truth, little petal." He replied, cupping her cheek, his thumb stroking against her smooth skin. "Losing the woman I love to the curse of immortality is a thought I cannot bear to have. I would much rather have you as you are now, then to subject you to the trials and horrors of vampirism."
"Then you'd better make good on those thoughts from earlier, jedyna moja... Show me just how deeply you love this human that you've claimed as yours." She whispered, leaning back to pull the rest of her garments off, tossing them back to the shore. "Take me beneath the stars... Let the heavens know that I am yours and yours alone."
Dettlaff smiled then, slipping free of his own breeches before fulfilling her wish and desires, taking her with all the love he felt for her, claiming her body with kisses and leaving hickeys and angry, red welts in his wake.
When they had finished, feeling fulfilled and relieved, Dettlaff carried Tomira out of the spring and helped her dress, draping his cloak around her shoulders before dressing himself. He turned and saw the forlorn look in her eyes once more, before scooping her up in his arms and peppering kisses over her cheeks and lips, before pressing a hard kiss at the juncture where her neck and shoulder met.
"If you still feel so strongly about it, perhaps I will consider it further down the line... But not a moment before then, little petal." He breathed, inhaling her scent as she curled against him in his arms.
She smelled of him and him alone, which brought a smile to his lips. No other higher vampire would be able to claim her when he lingered on her skin so heavily... A thought that calmed his heart and mind.
She slowly drifted off in his arms, and with a smile, he brought her back home, changing her into her nightgown and tucking her in before doing the same, joining her a few minutes later beneath the sheets, smiling as she huddled up against his chest, a soft sigh pushing through her nose as she made herself comfortable against him.
He smiled as he gingerly brushed his fingers through her hair, watching the dark locks twist around his fingers before falling away, leaving his skin tingling from the feeling of her silken strands.
Perhaps he would take her far from this place... Bring her to Beauclair with him. They could settle into a cottage in the woods, just the two of them, and begin anew together.
Perhaps one day... But for now, she needed her rest.
**
I hope you like it!
For reference:
Jedyna moja: Polish - My only one
Moje serce: Polish - My heart
The sun began to peak above the dark forest, beams of light shining through roof of leaves and making its way to the forest floor. Opening your eyes, you see Geralt is still asleep. Wispy strands of white hair frame his face making you smile. You love the rare occasions you get to wake up before him. Typically he wakes at the drop of a leaf, or any other minuscule sound that might occur in the forest. It's in his nature to be alert, to protect you both from any monsters that might appear. Though, he would never put you in danger on purpose. If he had the tiniest gut feeling that the forest floor wouldn't be safe you'd find yourself riding Roach to wherever he did deem safe.
Whenever Geralt is asleep, he looks softer than usual. Typically he has a hard exterior up, not willing to let anyone in. But asleep? He's the Geralt that only you get to see. The soft one, with loving touches, long embraces, and the one who whispers sweet nothings into your ear. The man who is typically made up of one word answers (usually 'fuck') to everyone else, but when it comes to you could go on and on about anything.
You gently lay your hand on his cheek, feeling his warm skin under your touch. Brushing a couple strands of white hair out of his face you can't help but admire his relaxed state. It had been weeks since either of you had felt this relaxed to take a quick breather and just enjoy each others presence without worrying of some monster or man trying to get the best of you. Slowly his amber eyes fluttered open and you felt his hand lay on top of yours on his face, gently stroking your knuckles.
"Good morning my love." You spoke softly. He smiled looking into your eyes before opening his mouth.
"Good morning." He said. Geralt's voice was deeper than usual. That was one of your favorite things about waking up next to him. His morning voice was always significantly lower, raspier and always made your heart flutter. "Did you sleep well?"
"In your arms?" You questioned giggling. "Always."
Pressing a kiss to his lips you smile in his embrace. He pulls away gently before looking around and surveying the area. "We should probably wake them up." He says pointing towards the sleeping mat's that Jaskier and Ciri lay on.
"No, let them rest." You speak looking at the lioness cub of Cintra and the bard. "We've got long days ahead, they'll need as much as they can get."
He looks at you for a moment, almost arguing that the long days are exactly why you should wake them up but thinks against it. He knows you're right. If they get at least one night of good, unbothered sleep, they'll be far less likely to complain as much during the days ahead. Besides, it had been a while since Ciri has gotten a rested nights sleep. Before Geralt and her found each other she'd been on the run for a long time, always looking over her shoulder for threats.
"I'll get breakfast." Geralt grunted and you nodded as he pressed a tender kiss to your temple. "Pack up Roach."
"We really should see about getting another horse." You spoke to yourself as you began rolling up the sleeping mat you and Geralt shared. It was by no means comfy, but it got the job done. "Maybe we should find somewhere to settle down for a while."
Geralt was already gone so your words fell upon empty ears. Looking over to Ciri and Jaskier, you began to think. Surely Ciri didn't ask for this type of life. Always on the road, looking for coin. Jaskier was just tagging along as he saw fit, running from the lords who caught him sleeping with their wives. You giggled at the thought. This type of lifestyle couldn't go on forever. They deserved to at least have a home.
You knew the dangers of it. If someone caught wind of where the Geralt of Rivia lived with his misfit family, there was bound to be trouble. Still, it was worth the risk if it meant Ciri had a soft place to lay her head every night. You were a mediocre mage, and Geralt was a Witcher. You heard a twig snap to your right, and noticed your Witcher's silver head appear through the trees, lugging a deer over his shoulder.
"That was quick." You spoke.
"Got lucky." He told you sitting on a fallen log and beginning to prep the meat.
"I was thinking-" You told Geralt, watching him gently.
"That's never good." He snorts and you kick him playfully.
"So the Witcher does have a sense of humor." You speak rolling your eyes. "Anyways, what if we found somewhere to call home?"
"Where do you think we're going now?" Geralt asks, looking at you. You look into his amber eyes confused.
"What do you mean, I thought we were just looking for work where we could get it."
"I mean yes, but I think it's time we find a place to call our own." Geralt shrugs. "Especially if those two are with us now."
"Who would have thought. Big bad Geralt of Rivia has a soft spot." You tease lightly tapping his nose with your index finger.
"You've always known my love." He tells you standing up and encircling your waist in his arms, placing his forehead against your own. "Just don't tell anyone."
You hear shuffling behind the both of you and turn around slowly. Jaskier and Ciri are both sitting up staring at the two of you with a confused look. Suddenly Jaskier's face lights up in a bright smile.
"I'm so writing a song about this." He says making Ciri hit him playfully. "Ow!"
Summary: She gave him up, abandoned him and now she’s back, wanting to be in his life. Is it too much to just kick her out, refuse her the way she refused him?
Warnings: Angst, Fluff
Pairings: Geralt x Female!Reader, Geralt x Ailana (daughter)
AN: So I left it open for interpretation. I don’t really know much about Geralt’s relationship with his mother so it’s open to how you take it if whether or not Visenna gets to meet Ailana.
Anon Requested: Hi! Can I request geralt x reader where they have a baby (I know its not possible but magic exists, so why shouldnt there be some potion or spell?) And geralts mom (visenna) wants to see them. How would he and his S/O react? I know that they didn't have a good relationship in books and the tv show but still. Sorry if it's a mess😅
There was a slight blur to everything as I came to, groaning when I felt Geralt’s spot in the bed was cold. I sat up, pushing the covers off. If Geralt wasn’t in bed, then there was only one other place he would be. Tiptoeing down the hall, I smiled as I leaned against the doorframe. Geralt was sitting in the rocker he had built, Ailana snuggled on his chest, snoring softly. I walked towards them, moving to take Ailana when Geralt’s grip on her tightened, causing my smile to grow even more. He’s always been protective, but when I told him that I was pregnant, he became even more protective. And then when Ailana was born, he was just as protective of her. I leaned down, running my fingers through Geralt’s hair, kissing the corner of his mouth as I whispered.
“It’s just me love.”
Geralt’s hold on Ailana loosened just enough for me to be able to pick her up, holding her to my chest as she stirred. Moving towards her crib, I was just about to put her down when she started to scream, tears streaming down her face. I jumped when Geralt jumped up, looking around the room, a small dagger in his hands.
“Geralt, love, it’s okay. Ailana is okay. She just woke up, that’s all.”
Geralt lowered his dagger, walking towards us. He leaned down, giving me a soft kiss as he picked Ailana up, causing me to laugh.
“You spoil her.”
Geralt smiled as Ailana calmed, snuggling into his chest, a content sigh leaving her.
“I know.”
“But it is cute.”
I yawned, causing Geralt to look over at me, wrapping his free arm around me, pulling me to his side.
“Come on, let’s go to bed.”
I made grabby hands towards him, causing him to laugh as he carefully placed Ailana in my arms, picking me up once she was settled. We both snuggled into Geralt as he carried us down the hall, laying us on the bed before he crawled in beside us, wrapping his arm around my waist, Ailana laying between us.
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺
I had just put Ailana down for a nap when Geralt came in, his chest heaving as he scowled.
“Geralt?”
I walked towards him, placing my hands on his chest once I was close enough, looking up at him.
“What happened? Is everything okay?”
He huffed, causing me to shake my head.
“Not today mister. Now tell me what’s wrong or you can sleep with Roach tonight.”
Geralt grinned slightly, sparing me a quick glance before he looked back at the wall.
“My mother.”
I made a face, tilting my head to the side as I reached up, placing my hand on his cheek, gently forcing him to look at me.
“What about her? Did something happen?”
I huffed slightly, whispering.
“Is she dead?”
Geralt grinned then, shaking his head as he grabbed me by the waist, picking me up. I wrapped my legs around him as he walked towards the couch (idk what that would be called in the witch universe or if they’d even have that) sitting down, causing me to sit on his lap.
“No, she’s not dead.
I nodded, sighing as I ran my fingers through his hair.
“Then what is it? Clearly something happened, you’re upset.”
“I saw her today. She sought me out. She told me that she’s been looking for me, for us.”
“Us? Why?”
“She heard that we were married, that you were pregnant. She told me she was sorry for what she did, and that she wanted a second chance.”
“A second chance?”
“She wants to meet you. And Ailana.”
“Do you want her to come here? Not a lot of people know we live here in our little corner of the world.”
“I know.”
I smiled softly, placing my hands on his cheeks, leaning down so he would look at me.
“What do you want love?”
He looked up at me, sighing harshly.
“To keep you and Ailana safe.”
“And you’ve done that. But she is your mother. No matter your differences, a part of you, even if it’s miniscule, still cares for her. If you don’t want her to meet Ailana, then she won’t. If you want her to meet us, then okay, we’ll meet her somewhere public. Whatever you want to do, we’ll do it.”
“You’re too good for me.”
I leaned forward, resting my forehead on his.
“You deserve it.”
“I don’t.”
I huffed, shaking my head.
“Okay, we are so not going to start the yes you do no I don’t fight cause we both know in the end I’ll win.”
I grinned, placing a kiss against his lips.
“I always win.”
He leaned up, kissing me harder as he ran his hands over the top of my thighs, squeezing my hips.
“Or maybe I always let you win.”
I scoffed, leaning back.
“You let me win? Sure, let’s go with that.”
Geralt laughed, shaking his head.
“I love you.”
“I smiled, running my fingers through his hair as I leaned down, kissing him.
Summary: The mountains in the distance are enticing and mysterious, but it isn’t until a bard and a witcher arrive to town that Y/N dares to venture to that uncharted and dangerous land.
Notes: I was fangirling about how much I enjoyed Netflix’s Witcher and I came up with this little imagine. I didn’t want to make it too romantically heavy but there are a few special interactions here and there. Anyway, I hope you enjoy it and that I made the characters justice, I haven’t written much for this fandom so far!
Links: AO3
I WROTE A SERIES BASED ON THIS, CALLED SOUL OF A WARRIOR, CHECK IT OUT! ;)
I walked out of the house when I heard gasps and commotion right outside my window. The townspeople were startled by the sudden appearance of foreigners that stood out amongst the common folk. One was a burly man with white long hair that carried two swords on his back. The other one was a smaller man with brown hair. Unlike the first, the second one wore bright clothes that nearly made it seem like they weren’t travelling together, were it not by the fact that the latter was talking to him.
My horse at the front of the house neighed and moved around, restless by their presence. It was then when I realized the first man with the white hair had yellowish eyes that shook me to the very core.
Absently comforting the horse, I caressed his head as I stared at the two mysterious figures. I was startled when the man suddenly turned to me, like he was feeling my eyes on him.
I had the sudden realization that I knew his kind, despite not having encountered one before. The swords, eyes and hair were enough to confirm it. Not to mention that mysterious, supernatural and slightly dark aura that surrounded him.
The other one carried a lute on his back, which made you chuckle at the great contrast between the rather unlikely pair. He turned at the sound of my laughter and grinned as he watched me.
My heart sped up in anticipation, but I took this opportunity seeing where they were headed.
“Excuse me” I spoke up, regaining the attention of the witcher as he had looked away from me. I cleared my throat when my voice quivered and continued. “I-“
“You are excused, my lady” The bard gallantly bowed to me, offering his hand. “I’m Jaskier, it is a pleasure to meet you”
Hesitantly, I rested my hand over his and observed him wide-eyed when he kissed it.
“I’m Y/N” I muttered, politely smiling to him before turning back to the witcher. “Do you happen to travel to the mountains?”
“Yes” Was all reply I got from him.
I patted my horse’s neck and walked closer to the witcher, only acknowledging Jaskier with a side glance as I passed him by.
“I’d like to go with you, uh…” I trailed off, hoping to hear his name. He just stared blankly at me, calm and unbothered.
“Geralt” The bard said for him. “His name is Geralt, and we’d love you to come with-“
“No” The witcher named Geralt bluntly cut him off. “I want no responsibility with you, it’s enough that I let the bard come with me”
“Oi” Jaskier chimed in, clearly offended. “If I didn’t go with you, there would be no one there to write epic ballads about your deeds”
“And what a shame that would be” Geralt sarcastically said, making me laugh. I caught a hint of a smile in the corner of his lips at my reaction.
I cleared my throat, hoping to convince him. His neutral expression returned so quickly that I wondered if I had imagined him smiling.
“I insist on going, I will pay you to escort me there”
I lifted my chin up with dignity when I realized his expression was stoic after my request. The witcher pursed his lips and shook his head.
“I’m not a bodyguard”
“Fine, then a guide”
“The answer is no”
I looked at Jaskier, still standing there looking at me. Smirking at the way he stared, I tilted my head and crossed my arms over my chest.
“Then I will go with the bard” I had to suppress a wider grin when I noticed Jaskier jolting up in surprise to my statement. “It so happens that he and you share a path”
Geralt only grunted, averting his gaze to focus on Jaskier. The aforesaid beamed and earned a resigned sigh from the witcher.
“Do you have a weapon?”
“I do, a dagger”
“Bring it, we leave at first light”
I smiled and nodded, feeling a mixture of excitement and fear. I had been wanting to go to the mountains for a long time, and I finally got to. To unveil the mystery that they presented.
-
None of us uttered a word as we made our ascent to the mountain. That, of course, with the exception of the bard. Geralt and I remained silent, but Jaskier had too many thoughts that apparently were too urgent to keep hidden. I smiled in spite of myself, amused and oddly endeared by his energetic and talkative self.
“Say, lady Y/N” Jaskier suddenly looked up to me. “May we share your horse?”
I held the reins tighter and eyed him warily from my higher perspective on horseback.
“Can you not ride with Geralt? I thought you were friends”
“He won’t let me”
“Don’t touch Roach”
“He even named his horse, I fear he cares more about it than about me”
“Without a doubt”
I laughed at Geralt’s reply, and he exchanged a quick glance with me. A thought suddenly came to me that witchers weren’t as terrible as people said they were. At least certainly not Geralt, I quite got a liking to him already.
“Please” Jaskier insisted, tugging at my sleeve. “May your heart be kinder than his”
I rolled my eyes at his dramatic antics and sighed. In the end, however, I held my hand in the air. The bard smiled and clung on to it without thinking, using it as an anchor to climb on my horse. Geralt had to quickly hold me by the arm to avoid my falling when Jaskier pulled too harshly.
Once I was stable again on my saddle, I glanced at him over my shoulder. He dedicated me an innocent yet handsome smile. I had to grin back, even if in resigned amusement.
“Why were you so adamant on coming to the mountain?” Geralt asked me, diverting my attention from the bard.
“Why are you? Is there some sort of monster for you to hunt?”
“I asked first”
The both of us seized each other up, but neither of us spoke. The only moment the witcher looked away from me was to send Jaskier a warning glance to remain silent.
“It’s not your business, witcher”
“Not yours either, Y/N”
“Can’t we all just get along?”
I smirked at Jaskier’s attempt to come to an agreement. I budged, knowing Geralt wouldn’t. In any case, telling him the truth shouldn’t have any negative consequences.
“I was always curious about what lurked in the mountains, all those tales and stories…” I paused, having to make an effort not to let my imagination run wild. “But I never was… I… Well, I never had a guide, until now”
Geralt watched me carefully for several seconds, apparently seeing through me and into my very soul. In the end, however, he calmly spoke back.
“We’re looking for something, yes”
“What is it?”
“A dragon” I pulled on the reins to stop the horse with his words. A heavy feeling of emptiness settled on my stomach. Was that what awaited us up there?
“Pardon me? I’m sorry… Did you just say ‘a dragon’?”
“Is there a problem?”
“Don’t worry, my lady, nothing will happen to us with Geralt by our side”
I turned to Jaskier behind me and scowled at him. He arched his eyebrows in surprise.
“Don’t call me that, I told you my name” I complained, staring at him for a moment.
His piercing blue eyes watched me carefully. He lifted his hands from where he held on to the saddle for balance, showing me his palms in a sign of apology and surrender.
My mind returned to the task at hand when I heard a soft but certain chuckle coming from Geralt. When I looked at him, I urged my horse seeing as he was ahead of us already.
“There is nothing to fear, Y/N” The bard gently patted my shoulder, his tone cheery and carefree. “Worry not, for the great witcher Geralt of Rivia will protect us”
“I’m not afraid” I merely replied, clutching the dagger in my belt.
However, the empty feeling in my stomach seemed to deepen, spreading to my throat there were a firm lump had formed.
-
We reached the open entrance of a big cave. The ground beneath us was dry and earthy.
When Geralt stopped and climbed down his horse Roach, I halted as well. Before I could do anything, Jaskier had jumped down and offered me a hand and a charming smile from below.
Giving in to his charm, I accepted his help. He held me by the waist and carefully lowered me into the ground in front of him. I dedicated him a soft smile as a silent thank you and turned to Geralt. The witcher had his sword out and walked towards the cave with determination.
I patted Jaskier on the shoulder and hurried by Geralt’s side, spreading dust under my feet as I dashed.
“Are you going to slay the dragon?” I cautiously asked him, tapping his arm. “Won’t that anger it?”
Geralt stopped to look at me, calm and unfazed as usual. He just watched me, not uttering any words. His expression didn’t change either, making it impossible for me to guess what he was thinking as we locked eyes. I frowned in anguish, but he didn’t budge.
“Besides” I insisted, breaking the tense silence. “Has it hurt people? As far as I know, no one in the city has any complaints about it. I-I hardly even knew there was a dragon!”
The witcher grinned in an enigmatic way and carried on. With every step he took towards the entrance, my heartbeat increased a tad.
I glared at Jaskier when his hand held on to mine. He opened his mouth to speak, and I could tell he was about to say something that included the words ‘my lady’, because he quickly corrected himself before he even talked.
“I’m only trying to comfort you, Y/N” He drew his hand back under my stare.
“I don’t need comforting” I took my dagger, noticing my fingers hurt from how tightly I had been holding on to the handle, and followed after Geralt.
I glanced over my shoulder to him, seemingly startling him because I had heard him. When I smirked at him, he frowned and watched me in curiosity.
“Watch out!” Geralt suddenly yelled, putting an end to our flirting.
I clutched the small dagger in my palm, looking ahead. A loud and high-pitched screech made me grit my teeth and run inside the cave. My heart was racing. It seemed about to break through my ribcage and jump out of my chest.
As I reached the witcher, who was already inside, I was taken aback by the sight I was welcomed with. The metallic sound of blades against one another was barely audible when that ear-piercing screech echoed around the spacious walls of the cave. The majestic dragon stood there, flapping its wings and complaining at the intrusion. For a moment I was unable to look away from it, fascinated by the way its green scales reflected the sunlight from outside. I was brought to reality, however, when I heard the witcher groaning and looked back to the group of seven men.
“Who are those?!” I exclaimed, unable to look away from the men Geralt fought with.
“Treasure hunters” Jaskier suddenly got serious, tugging at my arm.
I didn’t move, wrapped up in my indecision and shock. My companions hadn’t come to slay the dragon, they were there to protect it. To save it from those who wanted to kill it for their own purposes.
I saw Geralt holding his hand up, and a powerful wave wiped the enemies away from him. That showcase of magic and strength seemed to bring me out of my stupor.
“Where are you going?” The bard tightly held on to me when I made to move.
“To help Geralt!” I looked at Jaskier, even if my voice trembled and my fingers shook around the dagger.
“He will be alright, he-“
“No, he’s outnumbered! I won’t stand by, even if he’s capable to holding his own!”
“Don’t be stubborn, Y/N… Y/N!”
Jaskier called me when I ran over to Geralt and kicked a man that had approached him, taking advantage that the witcher’s back was to him. Seeing this, Geralt frowned at me but didn’t say anything. He pointed a finger to the ground, there were one of his swords had fallen.
I lunged forward to grab the sword, still tightly holding on to my dagger with the other hand. I assisted Geralt how I could, kicking and slashing and parrying.
When I heard Jaskier swearing under his breath next to me, I briefly turned to him. He was punching one of the men, who happened to be about to throw himself at me. I watched my companion as he held his hand to his chest in pain. Then, his eyes widened and he made to say something as he pointed somewhere behind me.
I quickly turned around, just then seeing one of those men coming to me. However, I wasn’t fast enough to retaliate. His sword sliced my side, making me wince at the sudden intense pain. I growled as I casted the sword upon him, but he blocked it. Geralt was there quickly, taking care of him for me.
“Oh, no” Jaskier held me by the arm, gently tugging at it so I would turn around to face him. “You’re injured… You got hurt, didn’t you?”
I gawked at him, too unfamiliar with the sensations overwhelming me. My hand automatically flew to my side, there were a crimson liquid stained my fingers. I got light-headed at the sight of blood, my own blood, and dropped my weapons. Jaskier had to hold me tighter when I staggered forward dangerously.
“G-Geralt!” He called out, just as the sound of the battle ended. “Help!!”
I heard the witcher’s footsteps growing closer. In the meantime, Jaskier panicked and his hands moved up to my shoulders, back down to my arms and to my shoulders again in restlessness. A ring in my ears was overpowering the sound of his urgent voice.
“Calm down, Jaskier” Geralt tore me away from the bard and lied me down on the ground.
When his yellow eyes fell upon me, I mentally chastised myself. I had to stay calm, the wound probably wasn’t that deep. I would be alright, and they would help me.
“My satchel” The witcher told his friend. “Jaskier, quickly!”
“Right, right!” The aforesaid hurried off.
Geralt carefully lifted my shirt to look at the bloody wound. The pain spreading to my side made me think that was the source, but the gash started in my stomach. I held on to Geralt’s black shirt when I saw the damage, trying to even my breathing. It felt like my life was being drained from the spot where the sword pierced my skin. A great mixture of feelings came over me, bringing uncertain tears to my eyes.
“It’s the first time I’m injured, it was my first real fight, I…” I whispered to him, gulping when a coldness clawed at my heart. “I was… I’m scared”
Geralt’s furrowed brows softened slightly at my words. He parted his lips, but before he could say anything Jaskier had arrived and anxiously handed him the satchel. Not a second after, the bard was kneeling next to me like his friend was.
Jaskier’s hands held my arm, and I clutched on to them. The sight of his worried eyes on me mildly comforted me as I saw Geralt with the corner of my eye. He was holding a small bottle filled with a dark liquid and poured the contents on my open wound.
I screamed out in agony, hoping that at least that burn meant that I was starting to heal. I held on to Jaskier as I started to feel my strengths fail me.
“What did you do?!” He complained to Geralt, throwing him a confused glance.
“That will stop the bleeding” The other only said, rummaging through his satchel until he picked up some bandages.
I breathed out, suddenly exhausted. My eyes closed, and I felt two soft hands on my face.
“Y/N? Stay awake!” Jaskier’s voice urged me, but I was already far away.
-
A gentle music brought me out of my slumber. A vaguely familiar voice quietly sung along with it, bringing me calmness as my senses slowly returned, and along with it, the pain.
My side felt like it was on fire, starting in my stomach and spreading the burning sensation across my side. I feebly moved my hand to that spot, feeling a small protuberance under my clothes there where bandages had been wrapped around my wound.
Despite feeling like I had been unconscious for a long time, I didn’t feel rested. My limbs were heavy and so were my eyelids. Slightly disoriented when I heard the distant sound of running water, I frowned. Weren’t we on the mountain last? With the dragon and the treasure hunters and…
I opened my eyes and quickly sat up, sharply breathing in when everything returned to me. The brief battle, Geralt and Jaskier. My injury. All that anguish came back to me, leaving me breathless.
“Y/N!” Jaskier called out, dropping his lute and running to my side. “It’s alright, breathe”
I tried to do what he said, and my laborious breathing slowed a bit after several seconds. My heart was violently thumping against my chest, but I found it slightly harder to put a remedy to that.
With the bard’s help, I carefully lied back down on the improvised bed they had prepared for me with the softest patch of ground they could find and a rolled up blanket under my head. I glanced around me, noticing we were in a forest, the threat of the night put at rest by the warmth of a fire. I spotted Geralt standing next to it.
Grimacing at the mere thought of blood, I carefully lifted my shirt to see my bandages. Luckily, they were clean and spotless. I heaved a sigh of relief.
“How are you?” The bard insisted, patting my shoulder. “Are you okay?”
“Were you worried about me, Jaskier?” I showed him a weak smile. “We only just met”
He gawked at me, astonished by my response. Bet he wasn’t expecting me to say something as such while being sick and helpless. He looked away, flustered by my implications.
“A speechless bard” I paused for a moment, still tired. “A rare sight”
“Don’t mock him” Geralt’s voice came, putting an end to Jaskier’s incoherent mumbling. “He might cry”
I laughed, but grunted as I pushed myself to my feet. The bard immediately stretched his arms out in alarm, but didn’t actually touch me. I took a brief moment to compose myself, recovering from a sudden dizzy spell, and nodded to him. Then I dragged myself away from them and closer to the gentle stream with its lovely music that had awoken me along with Jaskier’s singing.
He stayed behind with Geralt, arguing about the witcher’s comment.
“I have the sensitive soul of a poet” Was his excuse, followed by a proud hum.
“And she has the soul of a warrior” Whether Geralt didn’t think I could hear him or didn’t care, I wasn’t sure. “Believe me, Jaskier, I know”
I walked away from them until their voices became a distant and unintelligible murmur. My heart was restless after the latest events, but the course of the stream brought me tranquility. I closed my eyes and enjoyed the quiet moment.
A sharp scent suddenly brought me out of my calmness. Opening my eyes, I looked out in the distance in fear. Watching the town in the horizon, small from my perspective, I confirmed that the smell that the air carried was something burning. Smoke and ashes.
The blackness of the sky was illuminated by an incandescent orange light of flames.
I gasped and quickly turned around, so harshly that I made my side sore. Even more so than before. I absently held my hand over it as I spoke to them.
“What’s that?” I anxiously asked them, gathering their attention away from their mundane squabble. That caused the atmosphere to change completely, from relaxed to serious.
“Oh, that, uh…” Jaskier approached me, throwing glances to Geralt as the witcher lingered on his brooding silence. “Well, you see…”
“What… happened?” Their avoidance was only testament of a tragedy.
“The dragon” Geralt stated in the background, plain and bold.
“The… dragon?” I repeated in bewilderment.
“When… When the treasure hunters erupted in the cave, it fled” Jaskier spoke lowly, so much so that I could barely hear him. There was wariness in his voice that frightened me. “And flew over the town… Your town…”
My eyes filled with tears, so I avoided looking at him directly. It was then when I realized that we were alone except for Roach’s company.
“Where’s my horse?” I choked out, trying not to blink so I wouldn’t shed the betraying tears.
“Your horse…” The bard repeated, playing with the ring in his hand. “Of course, your horse, well it…”
“Ran away” Geralt completed the sentence, not making eye contact with me even from his far away position.
That was it, the last bond that tied me to my home town, gone. I had dared to venture into the unknown, explore the mysterious caves in the mountains like I had always wanted to. But it came with a price, as I was left isolated from my past. I had nothing else, no one else other than Geralt and Jaskier now. I had been brave once, and I would have to be again in order to move on. As with visiting the mountains, easier said than done.
Rid from my remaining energies, I plopped down on the ground and screamed to let all my anguish out. I tore my throat, which ached with the aftermath. That still didn’t make all the sorrow subside.
My reflection on the water only seemed to make everything worse. I presented an awful appearance. Pale, disheveled and weak.
Too caught up in my reflection, I jolted up when an arm fell over my shoulders. When I looked, I could nearly read the empathy in Jaskier’s eyes when they locked with mine.
“I’m sorry, Y/N… That is awful, that it happened” His voice was dripping with sadness, and despite his attempts, it didn’t make me feel any better.
“I want to be alone” I quietly told him, shrugging his arm off.
“No, I shouldn’t leave you alone in-“
“Go away!”
Jaskier paused at my outburst and sighed. Nodding in silence, he walked away and left me to my lonesome. To dwell on my disgrace in peace.
-
Their presence close to me brought me a comfort that I didn’t know I could achieve. The silence was overwhelming, and I suddenly missed the sound of the lute’s music. I couldn’t speak up even if I wanted to, since my voice felt too meek, raspy and hoarse. In any case, it had been too long to interrupt the quietness now. In all honesty, I wasn’t even sure how long it had passed, although it felt like hours.
I didn’t react when a figure walked closer to me. Giving it a side glance, I could distinguish Geralt’s burly frame dressed in all black, confusing in the darkness of the night. He didn’t say anything at first as he crouched down by my side.
“Better?” He solely told me, abruptly interrupting the soft noises of the forest in quietness.
“Yes” I dried my wet cheeks and rubbed my eyes, sore with all those spilled tears. “Sorry about that”
“You shouldn’t be ashamed of crying” Geralt’s words surprised me, so I faced him.
We paused for a moment. I could tell he knew what I was thinking, that it was quite ironic to be given lessons about emotions from a witcher. But it wasn’t ironic at all.
“I’m not ashamed of crying” I had to suppress the instinct to look back at the desolate town to avoid looking at all that foreign suffering that resonated with my own. “I’m ashamed of crumbling down”
“There’s no shame in that either” The witcher stood up and offered me his hand. “As long as you pick yourself back up”
I took a deep breath and nodded, taking his hand and letting him pull me to my feet. We lingered there, looking back to Jaskier sitting by the fire. He absently-minded strung the chords on his lute, not playing any tune.
“Is he mad at me?”
“He’ll get over it”
I smiled, even if Geralt couldn’t see it since he was returning. The bard lifted his head when he heard me following after him. His eyes were fixed on me as I neared the fire. Mine fell over his hand, there where a violent purple now colored his knuckles.
“I’m not trying to inflate your ego, bard” I said as I occupied the spot in front of him. “But I’m missing your beautiful music”
A slow smile arrived to Jaskier’s lips. It was hard to tell because of the dim light, only the fire next to him illuminating his features. Nonetheless, I could almost sense it.
“And what song would you like to hear?” He prepared, adjusting the instrument over his lap.
Just then, Geralt sat with us, clearly annoyed at our interactions. I briefly set my eyes on him, but he didn’t reciprocate. Hence, I focused back on the bard.
“I quite liked the one you were playing before” I recalled the soft tune and the calmness it brought to me.
“Your wish is my command, my lady” Jaskier paused, putting his fingers to the lute.
“Don’t tempt fate” I cocked an eyebrow, and he smirked in response.
As he began playing and singing, I looked up to the sky. The stars were shining bright, promising a better future. As I waited for the moment the dawn came, I lied down and indulged in the sound of the music. That along with the warmth of the fire and the comfort of their presence lulled me to sleep.
-
Morning was crueler than I thought, starting with the nightmares. The remainders of what I had lost while I was away. Of everything I had left behind.
Jaskier and Geralt were arguing as we packed our things and extinguished the fire. I didn’t mind them, not being bothered to intervene even if the conversation concerned me.
“Will you refuse to help her? She lost her horse, she can’t walk!”´
“I didn’t say that, Jaskier, but… Y/N, where are you going?”
I didn’t pay too much mind to them, only walking to leave that place behind. The forest led to the path we had followed to go through it. I didn’t hesitate to follow it.
“Wait, hold on!” Jaskier easily caught up with me. It seemed like I was slower than I was willing to admit. “We haven’t solved the matter of-“
“I can walk” I barely glanced at him, feeling stupidly stubborn and determined.
“No, you can’t! Y-You are sick and weak! Let us carry you or… or…” He interrupted himself when he heard Geralt and Roach behind us. “Y/N, please, we can…”
“I’m alright, I can walk” I insisted, even if making an effort to even drag my feet.
“No use, there’s no use!” Jaskier continued walking with me, but threw his arms up in exasperation. “So obstinate!”
“She’s wounded, not sick” Geralt told him, again speaking up even if I was in ear shot. “Nor is she weak”
“I didn’t mean weak like that!” Jaskier retaliated, still as exasperated.
I shook my head and continued walking, not wanting to put up with their bickering again. I was far too tired for that. It was enough effort to stay on my feet and continue putting one foot in front of the other. Regardless, I couldn’t stand still. I had to move forward, and I needed to do it myself.
Resting my hand on the dagger in my belt, I seemed to find a bit of balance and stability on the cold handle. It was a small weapon, but certainly enough to keep me safe and alive.
“Y/N!” Turning to the sound of my name, I saw Jaskier hurriedly returning to my side. Geralt was close behind, riding Roach and staring at me.
“What is it…?”
“You may not need my help, but…” Jaskier opened his arms in a kind gesture. “Please allow me”
I looked up at Geralt as he reached us, not daring to mention Roach. Even if I had the feeling that he would let me ride the horse if I asked him, only because I was injured. Still, I had to prove myself that I could do it. It wasn’t that far.
A pang of guilt struck me in the heart, knowing Jaskier hadn’t meant to hurt my frail ego. He truly hadn’t meant any harm, he was only trying to lend a helping hand.
I sighed and gave in, knowing none of that meant that I couldn’t have help in doing it myself. Not being done for me, just having some assistance. I leaned on Jaskier as he wrapped an arm around my waist. I held on to his shoulder while he helped me walk in my feeble state.
“Forgive me” I tiredly hung my head low, staring at our boots as we walked. “I… Truly, Jaskier…”
“I understand” Jaskier softly interrupted me, laughing a little. “I should have known better anyway”
I had to chuckle and shake my head. His foolish carefree nature seemed to relieve my restlessness. A deep voice requested my attention, so I looked up at Geralt.
“I could let you ride on Roach if you really need it” He told me in a neutral voice. “But don’t get used to it, just this time”
“Thanks, but I prefer making Jaskier suffer rather than the horse” My smile, although forced at first, became genuine with Geralt’s amused expression.
“Don’t get too corny” He said nonetheless. “Or I leave you behind”
“And that’s how you repay me, I see” The bard grunted, holding my weight up. “Fantastic”
“You know, you can write a song about the obstinate woman with the soul of a warrior” I told him with a smile, even if clutching my side when it felt a little sore.
“I’m way ahead of you, my lady”
“Never mind, I’ll walk-“
“Alright, alright” He chuckled, tightening his grip on me. “I couldn’t help it, you know…”
It seemed like we were coming to an understanding at last. I was glad, I wouldn’t like anything coming between Jaskier and I. Nor between me and Geralt.
I might have lost a lot in this day, but as I prepared to begin a new life, I realized I had gained something. I felt lucky to have Geralt and Jaskier.
YOU CAN NOW READ PART 2!!
Tag list: @kylosdankdealer / @angelias134 // If you want to be added or taken off the tag list for these fandoms or characters, let me know!! // Reblogs and comments are appreciated!
This drabble is part of my 800 Follower Celebration!
Requested by @aspiring-ginger: “Jaskier, soulmates, "is that what you think of me?" ♡♡ and congrats!!”
A/N: It’s finally here! I reached 1000 Followers tonight (and I’m still squealing!! ilysm) so it’s kinda funny to me that I’m still out here posting the drabbles for my 800 Follower Celebration :D I’m sorry for being so slow! I hope you like it though!
Words: 516
Pairing: Jaskier x fem!Reader, Soulmate AU
Warnings: none
„Is that what you think of me?”
Your eyes widen when you hear his voice behind you. The grip on your mug tightens and you stare at your friend with a panicked look on your face. She – the owner of the small tavern in this town – grins at you, amused by how you got caught. She raises her hands in a manner that says: you’re on your own, honey.
The tavern was crowded tonight. People from all over town had come, wanting to see the special guest: Geralt of Rivia. A Witcher, once feared as the Butcher of Blaviken, who now turned into the local attraction for the week. (Granted, nothing much happens in this town. Ever). Of course, someone made him famous, changed the peoples view of him. He didn’t manage this on his own. And the one who is mainly responsible for the change of people’s hearts is no one lesser than the bard Jaskier with his irritating song ‘Toss a coin to your witcher’.
Seriously, you hate that stupid song. It’s all over the continent and everyone – truly everyone, from grandmother to little child – keeps on singing it. They’re humming it walking down the streets, other bards copying it in the taverns. It annoyed the shit out of you.
So when you walk in tonight, wanting to talk to your friend and you hear this damn song, you don’t even look at the bard. Instead you head straight for the counter, starting to rant about how much you despise it and ultimately, the bard for creating it. This causes you to miss the fact that he stops singing at some point.
“Seriously,” the bard starts speaking again. “Is that what you think of me and my music?”
Realizing, he won’t go away, you wish for a hole in the ground in which you can simply vanish. A deep red blush appears on your cheeks and you slowly turn around.
This is where you see him for the first time in your life – and something happens.
Fireworks explode.
As you lock eyes with him, it’s as if your world changes from black and white to color. As if you’re gently sinking under water, the sounds around you become muffled. No longer can you hear the laughter and conversation of the others as everything fades away. Then your heart slows down, every beat of it echoing inside your mind.
Is this it?, you think to yourself. Is this what the stories and songs and poems are about? Is this how it feels like meeting them? The one person of whom you carry a part of their soul? The last reminiscence of a time so ancient and long forgotten that it takes your breath away when you’re finally allowed to experience it?
When you come back to the surface, you’re out of breath. Blinking in confusion, you stare at the man in front of him. He shares the same irritated look on his face, licking over his lips before awkwardly clearing his throat.
“No,” you finally answer his question. “And yes, I hate your damn song.”
***
A/N: For the record, I actually really like this song. I hope you liked it!! <3
The door swinged open with a loud noise revealing your tall, colorfully dressed boyfriend.
"Honeeey, I'm home!" Jaskier cheered closing the door and taking down his lute that was hanging on his shoulder. You murmured something that sounded like 'hi' from your shared bedroom, which Jaskier surely could hear.
"Babe?" the man called out, his voice a bit louder now. You manged to say "bedroom" loud enough for him to hear, although you weren't sure how.
Soon Jask was in the room, exitedly running his mouth without looking up.
"Oh this was such an amazing night! You should have heard the audience! They loved my songs! I mean why would they? But still, it was awso-" his eyes finally caught the sight of your laid down form. You curled into a ball, lips trembling, eyes watery.
"Darling!?" he exclaims loudly, running across the room to sit next to you. "What's wrong, sweetheart??"
You sniff, weakly gesturing at yourself.
"It's me, Jask. I- I hate myself so much, every time I look in the mirror I see an ugly-"
"Hey! No, I can't let you speak like that, my beautiful little pumpkin pie! No, no, I can't let you do this." you felt him climb next to you. He was laid on his side, facing you. His long fingers brushed out a few locks of hair out of your face. "I love baby, I love every single thing about you. Inside and out! You're so beautiful! I mean you are my beautiful, beautiful muse! Not everybody makes the cut, just saying" you awarded his joke with a weak chuckle.
"Ah, yes! There's that sweet, sweet smile I love so dearly!" he wiped away a tear before peppering you cheeks with kisses. "I am sorry you feel this way. It means I don't tell you hiw great you are enough... I will try harder, I promise."
He whisperes, his lips softly touching yours. His fingers still playing with your hair. You broke into another crying fit and he pulled you up into a sitting position. Jaskier than pulled you close to his chest, not caring if your tears will soak his vibrant colored, flower pattern shirt.
"Shh, it's alright babygirl, let it all out. I am here for you, you're safe. You're so strong and so beautiful, okay? I love you, Y/N."
You only noticed that his skilled fingers were braiding yout hair when you started to calm dow. He kept talking and whispering sweet little things in your ear. You moved your head so you could see his work in the mirror that was behind him.
"No no. No peaking! It's not done yet, sweetheart. You can look when it's finished." he pulled a hair tie off his wrist and put it in your hair while humming some quiet tune. It was enough for you to calm down.
Once he was done he gently pushed you back so he could examine his work.
" Would you look at that?! If it isn't the mighty Queen Y/N! Wow, your excellency, it is an honor to meet you!" he joked, bowing his head. You shook your head but a smile appeared on your lips.
"Shut up, you fool." you punched his shoulder softly. "I.. Thank you, Jask. For always making me feel better."
"That's what I'm here for, m'lady" he said before pulling you into another sweet kiss.
A/N: I sobbed writing this. The love story you never asked for. Fluff and angst - you have been warned. I took @witchernonsense ‘s heartbreak and @owillofthewisps ‘s peace and reflection.
You looked breathtaking.
The first time Geralt saw you, you had a bouquet of peonies and wildflowers tucked into the intricate braids that adorned your hair, circling around the crown of your head like a nimbus. An angel gracing the world with the tender wrinkles around her smiling eyes. He hadn’t been able to say anything, he remained transfixed, as if some unspoken law forbid him from disturbing you.
Flowers. You always seemed to have them around you. Even now, they lay with you in your lap, curled slightly in your fingers.
The delicate small embroidery that adorned the cloth you had packed provisions in. He would never leave them there for long, switching packages for the food as soon as he got out of your sight and neatly folding your cloth close to his chest. It would stay there until it was safely returned back to you. Always back to you. It was the fresh smell of lavender on his clothes as he rode away from your cottage, which reminded him of the soft evenings and days you had spent together. Even when you were not there, it seemed that you could not leave him alone for you plagued his thoughts and borrowed your way into his heart.
No, he didn’t think you would ever truly leave him. Your softly colored skirts, pale pastels, would forever switch in his mind.
You never seemed troubled. No matter how gloomy the day, a serene smile held tightly onto your lips. The winds could be howling in the skies, bright flashes of lightening weaving their web onto the starry sky and you would sigh happily - the flowers were getting watered.
Your expression was relaxed, as always. Geralt let himself trace a calloused dinger on your cheekbones, pulling lightly to draw your lips into a fitting smile. You would have wanted to smile.
You seemed otherworldly but you were always human. For the longest time, Geralt had tried to convince the both of you to see logic - there would only be suffering in your love. He would not age. He could not have children. The Witcher was bound to a life with no home or future - a life defined by the present and the past. By having him you would deprive yourself of a future Loving Geralt meant losing so many things that had he been less selfish, he would have never presented you with such a choice. But he wasn't. He was selfish and greedy and he wanted to finally feel loved to know a home.
Tears threatened to spill down his cheeks at the sight of you. It was just you and him. No one else to witness this scene, to remember you. He was so terribly selfish.
He whispered his love to you as the sun and the moon kissed breathlessly behind the milky clouds, a young love about to be pulled apart. You were his moon and he would always chase you. He took fewer hunts, and his adventures were never far for a couple of years. He knew he had to come back. Unlike him, you did not have time to waste. Your gentle smile and the fingers running through his hair told him that you didn’t mind. That you had time. He would choke back sobs to hear that. He could almost forgive some of the poor tormented souls he had met - humans were the monsters they begged for him to hunt for they were truly afraid of time. Time makes you do awfully careless things.
Your skin was pale even under the warm caress of the spring sun. Your cheeks would never turn rosy again, as they did when you caught him staring and he shamelessly refused to look away. Never - nothing was eternal in life other than death.
Your womb had gone ripe and had turned sour without producing a babe. The Witcher didn’t see you, but you stole longing glances at the cherubim features of toddlers, fisting their mother’s skirts at the market. Would it have had your eyes? You let yourself picture the rosy skin of a baby, with Geralt’s snowy hair and strong features, staring at you with eyes brightened in wonder. Your eyes. The thought had made you cry
No one had ever called you mother, not will speak of you with fondness to their friends and children of their own.
Watching you age had been the hardest thing Geralt had ever done. He wouldn’t leave you, for he had done this. He could not abandon the one soul that jumped ship, leaving their life and destiny for him. Always for him. So he stayed. he watched the soft curve of your back, where he traced his fingers at dusk, grow heavy and concave. Your glowing tight skin gave away slowly, like the petals of a wilting flower, curling slightly in wrinkles that made it seem like all of you were smiling. It was funny, really, how when your time was rushing by you, faster than ever, you only seemed to slow. The bounce in your step faded, and getting out of bed always took longer.
Your hair was a soft shade now, almost matching the Witcher’s own locks. The pink peonies in it stood out more than ever, their color seeming a stark contrast against the braids he had just finished. You had always like your hair braided.
The morning you had looked at him with a tired smile both of you watched the sunrise in silent understanding. he had made you your favorite tea, and your eyes watered slightly when he placed the mug on your nightstand with shaky hands. You would always rush, burning your tongue and whining about it. he told you to wait for it to cool down and you giggled lightly, closing your eyes. The tea lay cold in its mug.
He layers you down in the smaller meadow in which he met you. You were smiling and had braids in your hair. He watched the moon kiss the sun with you, one last time, and saddled his horse. You had left but never was he alone. He was with your flowers and your sun, a handkerchief made of all his food parking.
You left but his love for you had not.
The legend is not true. The world breaks the hearts of witches so many times that it would have been a mercy for them to be born without one.
You were otherworldly and you had finally gone home.
