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iwillbringyouruin · 1 year ago

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Radskier dialogue nuances in different languages

So I have been rewatching The Witcher in French recently and some of the changed lines stuck out to me, in the interactions between Radovid and Jaskier in particular. So i figured I'd compile my favourites from the translated versions I've seen so far here and compare their meaning to the original. I've also included some of the German lines since I'm German and I got curious!

Disclaimer: I'm just a guy who speaks a bunch of languages, don't expect overly technical linguistic wizardry here. Also this is not about the voice actors' skill or how well the lines are matched up to lip movements, strictly about the little changes in meaning when you take the translations literally! All meant to be in good fun.

Since this is about the season 3 dialogue, there are spoilers ahead.

This is going to be a long post so buckle up!

Season 3 in general: The way Jaskier and Radovid address one another

English (original): both use "you" which makes sense of course

French: Jaskier uses "vous" (the formal "you") for Radovid and Radovid uses "tu" (the casual "you") for Jaskier until they have sex in episode 4. When they talk the morning after in episode 6, they're both using "tu".

German: both use "Ihr" and the other formal derivatives for one another throughout (Even Geralt and Jaskier address each other formally the whole time. I'm not a fan)

Episode 1: Jaskier and Radovid meet

The dialogue here is generally very close, just two little things between the original and the German version I want to point out.

English (Jaskier): Fuck, I don’t really know what I’m supposed to… Bow? Or curtsy, or… I’ve been holding your hand a long time, so sorry about that.

German (Jaskier): Shit, I don't know if I'm supposed to bow or be polite... I've been holding your hand for too long, forgive me ("bow or be polite"?? HUH?)

English (Radovid): If your time at court’s been staid, you’ve been doing it wrong

German (Radovid): If your time at court has been too calm/quiet, something went wrong ([gay silence])

Episode 2: specifically Extraordinary Things

I've put the different lyrics as rather direct translations in the pictures below. They're also written out in the alt text. The French ones are a little more pointed compared to the original imo, I like that version a lot. I'm not sure how I feel about the German version but the first line did make me giggle.

Episode 3: Jaskier talks to Vespula about Radovid

I love this scene for many reasons. I have two things to point out about this.

The first thing is that while in the English and French version, Jaskier says that he and Radovid have only met twice, in the German version he says that he and Radovid don't even know each other.

The second thing is that in the English and German version, Jaskier calls Radovid a spoon and he does in the French version as well. However, he specifies Radovid is a "little spoon" here. Need I say more?

Episode 4: the scene in the shed

Ah, the scene of all time. Before the other scene of all time in episode 6. A few things about this one. The first thing is a very small change in the French version:

English (Jaskier, after Radovid admits he's scared): Just saying that makes you braver than you know.

French (Jaskier, after Radovid admits he's scared): The fact you're admitting that proves you are brave

The second thing bothered me more because it isn't really a subtle change. Both in English and French, Jaskier says Radovid has "learned [his] song", but in German he says Radovid "knows [his] song". The German line here isn't saying that Radovid "knows" the song as in he knows how to play it (from hearing and watching Jaskier play it for him once, mind you), the way it's said makes it sound like Radovid has just heard the song before.

The third thing is what they're saying right after the kiss. Unfortunately with the slightly changed lines for Jaskier we don't get the clever connection between Jaskier talking about taking Radovid into the cabin and Radovid asking Jaskier to take him (sexually).

English (Jaskier): I can't take you inside, I'm sorry.

English (Radovid): Then take me here.

French (Jaskier): The cabin is occupied, I'm sorry.

French (Radovid): Then take me here.

German (Jaskier): We can't go inside, I'm sorry.

German (Radovid): Then take me here.

Episode 6: the morning after

The German version is the same as the original here.

English (Jaskier to Radovid): I thought I’d seen through your mask. Turns out there was nothing behind it.

French (Jaskier to Radovid): I thought I had lifted the veil from your soul. But I found nothing but darkness beneath that façade

The subtle differences in the French version on the other hand not only make the pain a little different, it also includes an allusion of sorts to that version of Extraordinary Things with Jaskier talking about Radovid's soul. At least that's how I saw it. Ouch!

Episode 7: the moment where Jaskier finds Radovid at Thanedd

All three versions here make me want to cry. That's all.

English (Radovid): Just let me be there with you. Prove that I’m more than a mask.

English (Jaskier): Maybe.

French (Radovid): Just let me stay with you and show you what is beneath this façade.

French (Jaskier): Why not.

German (Radovid): Just let me be with you and show my true self.

German (Jaskier): Maybe.

#radskier #jaskovid #radovid #jaskier #the witcher #the witcher netflix #the witcher meta #twn s3 #the witcher season 3 #i made myself sad

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thelostgirl21 · 1 year ago

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Okay, but now I kinda want to see a Radskier version of this...

Because I can 100% imagine Jaskier being that adorable 7 year-old child that some evil noble would be jealous of and want to get rid of (because he's so damn charming and has such a beautiful, melodious voice, and natural way with words already, that it's obvious that the kid is going to be a menace that will have people falling for him left and right when he grows up!).

And so, he gets adopted by a bunch of outcasts (maybe Yarpen Zigrin and his men?) that are constantly trying to tell him to stay away from strangers, and stop putting random things into his mouth!

But he's a 7 year-old version of Jaskier, i.e. a puppy dog of a child with even less impulse control and inhibition than the adult version of him has! So, of course he just gets instantly fascinated with each new person he meets, and spontaneously goes to hug their legs, tell them he thinks they look pretty, ask them where they're from, want them to tell him stories, and will gladly eat anything they offer him that remotely looks edible!

Hell! He'll eat stuff lying around that don't even look edible! So, if it looks like an apple? Yeah. Poor child never stood a chance. The evil noble character wouldn't even have needed to try to interact with him or trick him. He'd just need to let a poisoned apple randomly lie on the forest floor close to the dwarves' camp, and you can be sure it would wind up in Jaskier's mouth, somehow!

And then, there's young 8 year-old Prince Radovid, that has the annoying habit of giving his guards the slip to go running off on his own into the woods; but somehow never gets lost - even when he goes missing for a few days - nor attacked by any of the forest's creatures, because he's that kind of prince!

You know, the kind of prince that can just summon squirrels through his bedroom's window to come clean up his room for him!

So obviously, he'd find the glass coffin with the "dead" but perfectly preserved boy inside, and immediately think "he's really pretty, and I think I should keep him with me!"

So, he finds this Witcher passing by on his horse Roach, tells him he's found a pretty boy trapped in a glass box that he'd like to bring back home, and the Witcher looks like he'd be strong enough to do it.

Intrigued (and perhaps just a bit concerned over the kid's sanity), the Witcher thus goes to investigate and finds out that young Radovid was telling the truth! He decides that he should bring the boy in the glass coffin to a powerful sorceress to try to figure out what happened to him, and if, perhaps, something could be done to wake him up.

He tries to convince the young Prince Radovid that he should go back home before his parents start to worry, but the kid is having none of it! He wants to stay with the pretty boy and is afraid that the Witcher will decide to just keep him, and that he'll never get to see him again.

Plus, he keeps insisting that no one will miss him, or even notice he's gone for a few days, at least! Because all that matters to his parents is his older brother - who's going to be king one day - and no one really pays attention to him. It's not the first time he's run off like that! Last time it took them about a week before they sent more guards to fetch him.

So now, Geralt is travelling towards Yennefer de Vengerberg's latest location by foot, with an 8 year-old Redanian Prince sitting on his horse and a glass coffin with some random child (that looks to be roughly the same age as the prince) trapped in some kind of death-like stasis of unknown magical origin inside of it hoisted on his shoulder...

At some point, Roach gets startled, and Geralt ends up tripping and almost dropping the glass box while attempting to make sure his horse doesn't accidentally throws Radovid off her back.

Next thing he knows, the "dead kid" is coughing out a large piece of poisoned apple, is fully awake, tries to hug him, wants to know if white is his real hair color, and if he'd let him wash and braid them later? No? Spoilsports.

And wow! How sharp are those swords? And why are there two of them? Oh! And does the wolf on his medallion mean anything? Also, he's hungry and wonders if Geralt has some food hidden somewhere (while actively rummaging through his bags)...

The moment he triumphantly pulls out a vial, thinking it's some juice to drink, the Witcher panics and knocks it out of his hands, immediately being called "rude" by a pouting and put off fucking 7 year-old kid!

But 3 seconds later, he totally forgets about being upset and now wants to know all about what Witcher potions are, and Witchers. Can he be one? Okay, maybe being a Witcher is not so much fun, then... But Yarpen keep saying he makes way too much noise to be a mercenary, too! So he'll have to figure something out and "be something" one day, right?

Apparently, the kid's full name and title is "Julian Alfred Pankratz, Viscount of Lettenhove", but it's too long, sounds way too fucking pretentious (it's unclear if the dwarves that adopted him taught him to curse, or if it's a habit that the child had picked up before), and so he prefers to go by Jaskier.

Oh, and he really loves to sing! Would Geralt want to hear him sing?

When the sound of another voice says that they'd love to, Jaskier nearly jumps out of his skin going "What the fuck are you doing here?" at the other child, prompting a very confused and wide eyed "b-but I've been sitting here the whole time!" from the much quieter, and much more reserved prince.

The very second little Jaskier has a chance to take a good look at the young Radovid, however, he immediately goes from startled to utterly fascinated, and now he's trying to awkwardly climb on top of Roach until the prince casually asks Geralt's fucking horse if she would be so kind to help him, and wouldn't you know it! Roach just grabs the kid by the back of his shirt, lifts him up, and sits him down right behind the prince while Geralt is looking at the interaction totally dumbfounded.

At least, now all of Jaskier's questions are directed at the prince that apparently couldn't be happier to answer them, and to be the center of the pretty boy's attention.

Among other things, Jaskier wonders if the big, buff, scary-looking white haired Witcher person is always so silent and grumpy, asks if he can run his fingers through the young prince hair, and braid them - then, when he receives confirmation, starts commenting on how soft his hair is, and wondering what their actual color might be (it's a really pretty kinda reddish-blonde, that seemingly keeps changing color with the way the sun's ray reflects in them... Does Radovid has magical hair? They smell really good, too!)...

Meanwhile, Geralt is wondering whatever the fuck he did to Destiny to deserve to be carrying two noble kids around on his horse - including one that won't shut up - even when he's got his nose buried deep into the other child's hair...

Oh! And he's singing now! Wonderful!

He's genuinely starting to wonder if he should be asking Yennefer to check up on him and make sure that he won't be suffering from any long term complications from the spell he was put under...

Or if he should be asking her if there's any safe way to put him back into that box and make sure he stays there!

That is, if the damn child doesn't wind up back in a coffin all on his own!

For some reason, that fucking kid keeps trying to make friends with every single monster they meet in their travel... And, the moment the fangs inevitably come out, the prince will apparently step in, in an attempt to talk the monster down and protect his companion!

Geralt is pretty sure that having to look after these two together while trying to keep them both alive is going to result in him starting to age at a normal human rate!

He has to admit, though, that Jaskier boy has a very decent singing voice - especially coming from one so young... And he's got quite a few catchy tunes, too...

Then, there's Prince Radovid... From what little Geralt has been able to gather from him, he's starting to suspect that he might have been abused back at the castle, or at the very least the victim of parental neglect. He seems way too mature and self-reliant for his age, and craves Jaskier's attention like someone that's gone invisible for far too long...

Halfway through their trip, the boys apparently decide that the two of them are going to get married when they get older, and live together in a cabin in the woods, close to the coast.

Of course, he's not enough of an asshole to tell them that he's sure the King of Redania is going to be delighted to hear about his youngest son's plans for his future, and would totally agree to that.

Turns out he wouldn't have needed to since, when they finally reach Yennefer de Vengerberg, the sorceress gives the "little sing-songy twit" a clear bill of health, and somehow decides that she wants to adopt both of the kids (she's apparently been wanting to become a mother for quite some time now, and sees this as the perfect opportunity)!

The Prince, of course, is delighted at the idea! As long as he gets to stay with the "pretty boy", apparently, he'd be happy! Plus, the fact that Yennefer seems like a mother that would actually want him is also a huge plus in favor of that plan.

And Jaskier's not agains it, but insists for them to find Yarpen first, to let him know he's alive, have them meet his "dwarf dad", and allow them to figure it all out together.

Somewhere along the way, Geralt and Yennefer fall in love, and Jaskier decides he now has a Witcher dad and a Witch mom, too...

He refuses to remotely consider Radovid as a brother, though, regardless of them now having the same parental figures.

Apparently, marrying him when they're all grown up would be really weird then (Jaskier is apparently really good at keeping track of his priorities, and those are very much not straight!) - and the prince fully agrees on that.

Even if Geralt mistakenly believes that they will probably have the opportunity to change their minds at least ten times about getting married before they actually get to that point.

Eventually, they do reunite with Yarpen and his company, that are absolutely delighted and beyond relieved to discover that their beloved tiny big fucking mouth is now awake, and very much alive!

Apparently, they met with some ancient elven lady that told them of some weird prophecy about the child, and that they needed to build some glass coffin and leave him there in the middle of the woods for some other kid to find if they wanted him to survive...

Really weird fucking stuff, but they'd figured that it was worth a shot, at least, and a much better plan than letting Jaskier be permanently dead.

And then, Yarpen and his company, Geralt, Yennefer, and the whole Witcher Keep, apparently, wind up raising two random noble kids, protecting them from some evil character that wants Jaskier dead out of jealousy (still haven't decided who that would be... Maybe, in that world, Valdo Marx would be older, and part of the nobility... Actually, it would be funny if no one actually knew who kept trying to murder Jaskier, and that was something they'd only discover once he's all grown up and has finally become everything that the evil character ever feared Jaskier would become) that keeps occasionally trying to trick him to his death (it's a recurring occurrence... Every now and then, Jaskier nearly dies or dies, they find a way to save or revive him... the usual!).

As for Radovid, every once in a while, Redania sends out some troops in an attempt to retrieve him... But, since every time they try to send their cavalry out the horses won't budge, whales keep sinking their ships, and their infantry get chased around by bears, squirrels, skunks, and fucking pigeons, each new attempt becomes more and more halfhearted.

Jaskier eventually becomes the bard he was always meant to be... Perhaps Radovid eventually retakes his Kingdom...

To everyone's utter lack of surprise, they do very much get married...

Pretty sure that, at some point, one of the attempts on Jaskier's life involved something like "true love's kiss" to break the spell, and Radovid totally aced it!

Well, depending on who you ask, because Geralt would argue that "true love's kiss" doesn't usually require as much tongue and groping. And Jaskier would very much disagree, arguing that a decent amount of tongue action is 100% crucial to the kiss' chance of success!

Yennefer would likely settle the argument by saying that Jaskier's probably right, given he's way too much of a diva to come back to life for someone that's unwilling to put in a little extra effort into the kiss to show that they really mean it.

Oh, and when the boys were in their late twenties, and announced that they would be attending Queen Calanthe's banquet together because Jaskier had been invited to perform, Yennefer told Geralt to go with them for protection, in case someone would attempt to take the opportunity to murder Jaskier - again.

And Geralt came back home that night announcing to her that he'd just accidentally adopted yet another princess - with super powerful Elder blood this time - and that they would probably need to move closer to Cintra for a few years, so Yennefer would be able to help train her.

#Radovid #Jaskier #Radskier #Snow White crack A.U.#Based on that post about how in the original tale the princess and the prince were apparently both children...#And no kissing was actually involved...#My Posts #My Thoughts

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hannibard · 9 months ago

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"I'm choking from the taste (but I can't help but swallow)"

Pairings: Geraskier, Radskier

Summary: "There's too much at stake Geralt, it's not worth it. Go back to Kaer Morhen and forget about me."

"You're more than worth it Jaskier and I'll do anything in my power to get you out of this hell. Melitele help anyone who stands in my way."

Jaskier is taken by Radovid in the midst of his travels with Geralt and Milva. The Redanian king, changed from his recent ascent to power, is determined to get everything he wants, with Jaskier having the misfortune of being on top of the list. Jaskier spends time serving Radovid in the Redanian court, drowning in despair and losing parts of himself in the process, his only consolation being the knowledge that his friend was safe from the Redanian army due to his sacrifice.

Sometime after Geralt has united the north under his rule, he decides to pay a visit to Redania in the hope of reuniting with his bard. But Jaskier is not as he remembers, his psyche having been fractured in their time apart. Will the witcher be able to help him escape his tragic fate?

Inspired by the song "Poison" from Hazbin Hotel

Click here to read on Ao3

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Chapter 1: How it all started

He had been traveling together with Geralt and Milva for a few months when they took him. The three had made good progress on their way to Nilfgaard, occasionally adding other skilled individuals that were willing to aid in their cause to their group, like the high vampire/surgeon Regis, and the possibility of reaching Ciri was becoming more apt with each passing day. Jaskier was, despite the sharp worry in his gut for the girl he had come to consider something akin to a daughter, relatively content.

Things were in no way easy, but at least he was (finally) at Geralt's side again. Plus, this time around he was actually able to pull his weight. Gone were the days of him being barely more than a burden that slowed the witcher down and made his life harder, as his role had been for the majority of their acquaintance.

(If life could give me one blessing-)

He had been by himself in some backwater village, because they needed to make money somehow and Jaskier was, despite all his faults, an excellent bard. His ability to be useful, even amidst such impressive individuals, filled him with pride. The others had made camp a few miles away in order to not draw attention. It was risky enough for Jaskier to make those semi-frequent appearances in the public eye, even with the new moniker he had adopted in his attempt to pass as different person. He had rarely traveled this far south in the past, so he wasn’t too worried about being recognized.

(it goes without saying that he avoided performing any songs from the vast repertoire he had created centered around his greatest muse, the White Wolf.)

His set was coming to an end, and he was looking forward to drinking an ale after gathering his earnings, before starting his long way back to his companions. He was in the middle of just that when he was approached by a hooded figure. They moved gracefully, weaving skillfully through the crowd before sitting down across the bard.

“Beautiful voice you’ve got there.” Their face was hidden in the shadow created by the hood, which was dark and modest, not carrying any identifiable markings.

Jaskier didn’t let his alarm show. “Thank you friend, I’m always one to appreciate compliments.” He took a long sip from his tankard methodically in a show of nonchalance.

The hooded figure cocked their head to the side and reached their hand out. “With talent such as yours, it’s a wonder you’re not more well-known Master…?”

Jaskier gave a bright grin, subtly wiping the sweat making its way down his forehead, and shook the stranger’s hand. Their grip was firm, and its hold lasted a bit longer than was considered socially appropriate. “The name’s Dandelion. And you are…?”

“A beautiful name to match the beautiful voice.” The figure avoided the question and tilted their head back so that their matching grin could be visible to the bard. Jaskier couldn't see their eyes, he had a nagging impression that he was being checked out from top to bottom. “Of course I can't neglect mentioning the beautiful appearance. Though if you don’t mind my humble opinion, I’d say there’s another name that would suit you more fittingly.”

The bard’s grin twitched ever so slightly. “And what would that be my dear fellow? Do say so.”

The stranger leaned forward. “Jaskier.” they said almost conspiratorially.

The bard’s smile fell all together, and he looked around with the corner of his eye. None of the inn’s patrons seemed to have heard, too busy drinking, eating and chatting loudly with each other. The innkeeper himself was curiously missing from the room.

“What do you want?” he asked through gritted teeth.

“If you want to find out then follow me and don’t make a scene. It wouldn’t benefit either of us.”

Jaskier gulped and slowly stood up. He made sure to grab his lute and not to let his nervousness show. “As you wish.”

They made their way outside, and as soon as they were out of people’s sight the stranger grabbed his arm with a strong grip that left no room for resistance, no matter how much Jaskier tried to pull away. They reached a building that stood tall in the periphery of the village, and the hooded figure surveyed their surroundings before opening the front door and pushing Jaskier inside. The force made the bard fall to his knees and he hissed in pain, his lute thankfully tucked safely against his back. He vaguely heard the door close and lock behind him just as he looked up, his mind too busy short-circuiting at the sight he came across.

“Hello darling.” said Radovid as he stood up from a makeshift throne, making his way to the bard and dropping to one knee in front of him. The newly-crowned king took Jaskier’s chin in one hand and gently stoked his cheek with the other, smiling gently. “Oh how I’ve missed you.” He said wistfully and gave him a quick peck on the lips.

Jaskier was left speechless, his brows furrowing together in confusion. He hadn’t seen Radovid since that fateful day in Aretuza after the Thanedd ball, in the midst of all the chaos. Their parting had been hopeful but it didn’t take long for Jaskier to hear about Radovid’s sudden enthronement, so he had resolved himself to the reality that their story would remain forever unfinished. His regret lessened more and more with the time he spent at his witcher’s side.

“Radov-, Y-your majesty, to what do I owe the honor of this, ah, sudden summons?” he said when he finally managed to make his mouth move.

Radovid’s eyes hardened almost imperceptibly at the bard’s term of address. He let out a defeated sigh and hung his head low. “I never once stopped thinking about you my dear, every day we spent apart was pure torture, and now that my reign has stabilized I though it was the perfect time to pay you a visit." He looked up and stared unblinkingly into the bards blue eyes. "Aren’t you happy to see me?”

Jaskier swipped his lips with his tongue, a motion that Radovid tracked hungrily. “Oh, I uh, I’m elated to see you, truly, but I’m just a tad confused. You see, your buddy over there that escorted me here, let’s just say they weren’t very gentle in their approach. In few words and with no offense, it left a lot to be desired. I was expecting to encounter some sort of Nilfgaardian general ready to chop my head off and not… you.”

Radovid huffed and offered a hand to Jaskier, helping him up. Now that Jaskier was somewhat over his initial surprise he was able to take in the king’s appearance. There were some subtle changes, like the short beard that had replaced his previously clean-shaven face, his once lean body seemed to have filled with muscle, but the biggest change, the one that made Jaskier’s breath catch in his throat, was in his eyes.

Before, Radovid’s eyes were like a window to his soul that only Jaskier had a key to, full of intelligence and softness, specifically towards his person, but now… Now his gaze was guarded. The only thing Jaskier could detect besides the current show of the king’s emotions, was darkness. It was something he was only able to decipher after his years of experience performing in countless courts and dealing with all sorts of people in his travels. It caused a chill to run down his spine.

“You don’t have to worry about Nilfgaard any more my love, you won’t have to deal with them ever again.” Radovid said as he patted down the outrageously large fur that hung from his shoulders.

Jaskier blinked rapidly a few times and raised his eyebrows. “What do you mean by that Your Majesty?”

Radovid looked at him as though he’d asked a very stupid question. “Redania’s power has grown vastly in recent months as I’m sure you’ve heard. Nilfgaard wouldn’t dare take a single step towards us. Also please cut all the ‘Your Majesty’s, our relationship has evolved beyond such formalities.”

Jaskier nodded tentatively “I’ve certainly heard about your accomplishments, but I don’t understand what that has to do with me.”

Radovid rolled his eyes in fond exasperation. “You’re coming with us silly.”

Jaskier’s heart was beating rapidly in his chest. He had been bombarded by shock after shock in such quick succession that he hadn’t been able to calm his racing mind in a minute.

“I appreciate the offer, truly, Your Majes- Radovid.” the bard quickly corrected his words after seeing Radovid’s face twist in displeasure. “But I’m afraid I have to decline. You see, I’m currently in the middle of a very important quest that I must see through to the end.”

The king’s eyes narrowed, his fists clenching at his sides. “So you’d choose that witcher over me? Even after everything he’s put you through? I could give you everything you’ve ever dreamed of, comfort and luxury beyond your wildest dreams, but you’d seriously rather continue following that monster like a lost puppy?”

The bard wasn’t happy with the name Radovid used to describe his dearest friend, but he let it go, choosing to focus on the matter at hand. “I’m sorry Radovid. It is what it is.”

A glimpse of hurt flashed in the king’s eyes and his shoulder’s slumped as he turned away from the bard. He took a few deep breaths before he straightened up again. When their eyes met once more, Radovid’s hardened gaze was filled with resolve. Jaskier waited with bated breath for his response.

“If you won’t come with me willingly… I’ll just have to bring you by force.”

Jaskier’s eyes widened and his blood ran cold. Before he was able to do anything, two guards surrounded him and grabbed his shoulders from each side. He thrashed wildly but it was for naught, the bard being much weaker than his captors. “No-, Radovid- please don’t do this, I’m begging you!” He asked desperately.

The king looked down at him with his chin up and an air of confidence surrounding him, for the first time appearing as ruthless and regal as his title implied.

“I’m afraid I can’t listen to you darling. One of the perks of being a king is that I can do and have whatever I wish for, and nobody can stand in my way.” He waved his hand towards the bard nonchalantly as he addressed his followers. “Bring him a pen and paper. Have him write a letter to the witcher and deliver it to the innkeeper. He’ll know what to do.”

The guards dragged Jaskier towards a desk and deposited him in a chair, writing tools bring placed on the surface before him a moment later. His hand was shaking as he picked up the pen. A tear slid down his cheek as he tried one last time to change the king’s mind. “Please Radovid... Let me go.”

The king crossed his arms and his mouth formed a tight line. “That’s ‘Your Majesty’ to you.”

Jaskier let out a sob and stared down at the paper, blinking rapidly in an effort to clear his blurry eyesight. His mind was racing trying to find a way to leave some sort of secret message to alert Geralt of his situation. Radovid seemed to read his thoughts however, because he gripped the bard’s nape tightly and leaned down to whisper in his ear. “Don’t even think about pulling any tricks or your dear witcher and the rest of your group will leave their last breaths at the camp they’re currently stationed on. My soldiers have the place surrounded as we speak.”

With those words the bards last hope was extinguished. The last thing he wanted to do was put his friends in danger. Even with their combined extraordinary strength, he didn’t want to chance either of them getting seriously injured. If obedience was the price to pay for their safety, then so be it.

“At least promise me you’ll leave them alone.”

Radovid gave a chaste kiss to the bard’s neck and ran what would be considered under normal circumstances a comforting hand down his back. “You have my word. I didn't care about them in the first place.” He gave the bard one last squeeze and went to sit back in his throne.

Jaskier took a deep breath and started writing. The single tear that hit the paper, while certain to be identifiable with the witcher’s heightened senses, would probably be assumed to have been a product of Jaskier’s typical sentimentality and nothing more.

Dear Geralt,

You’ll find me dearly saddened to inform you that our long-standing companionship must come to an end. You see, I’ve had time to think while staying in this lovely little settlement away from you lot, and I've come to realize what it is I truly want. That of course being king Radovid of Redania. I’ve talked to you about our ill-fated relationship before as you might recall. Somehow, things for us two don’t seem as bleak as they one were. I can see a light at the end of the tunnel and thus I’ve decided to go to Redania and try to build a future with him. Love conquers all and the like.

For the first time in my life, I’m putting myself before you. I’m choosing my own happiness. I hope you’re able to achieve your goals and manage to locate Ciri safe and sound. When you do, which I've no doubt you'll achieve, give her all my love. Please inform the rest of our group about my decision. I’m sorry for doing this so suddenly but you know how matters of the heart can be. They leave no room for patience.

Ever your affectionate friend,

Julian Alfred Pankratz.

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dancingwiththefae · 11 months ago

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2023 writing round up

Tagged by @loki-is-my-kink-awakening

I have written 30 fics this year (I included wips in this). All are the Witcher unless otherwise stated:

JANUARY

Love be brave (geraskefer, M, 2.9k)

Jaskier is held captive and tortured for information on Geralt and Ciri. Geralt and Yennefer are on their way to rescue him, but not before his resolve finally breaks.

Pearl and Verbena (ciri & Jaskier, Essi & Jaskier, T, 1.3k)

Geralt, Yennefer, Ciri and Jaskier head back to the Temple of Melitele for some respite. When Jaskier can’t sleep, he heads to library and finds a book that brings up memories he had tried to bury.

The price of justice (geraskier, M, 2.4k)

Jaskier lands himself in trouble again, execpt this time in a town that likes that adopts cruel methods of punishment.

APRIL

New beginnings, old friends (geraskier, E, 25.3k)

Geralt and Jaskier try to manage their new relationship, Jaskier's recovery from his blood addiction, and call upon an old friend to help.

Part 2 of Love & Blood

MAY

once is enough (geraskefer, M, 27.1k)

When the dust settles in Kaer Morhen and everyone returns to their routines, Jaskier is left alone. A spare part amongst the rest with nothing but the drink and his own neverending thoughts for company. He finds himself sinking further and further. But how long can you last in the sea of your own mind before you drown?

JUNE

Jewel of my eye (Anna Henrietta/Dandelion, M, 1.4k)

The palace of Beauclair is hosting a masquerade ball in honour of their guests, the hansa. Dandelion and Anna Henrietta are playing a game of their own.

A lucrative purchase (yennskier, E, 2.8k)

Jaskier visits a sorceress in Rinde, hoping she can create something specific for him. He gets a little more than he bargained for.

JULY

Then take me here (radskier, E, 1.2k)

what Jaskier and Radovid got up to in that scene

Light the fire (radskier, E, 1.7k)

After an evening of merriment, Jaskier and Radovid wander into the throne room where the prince has an interesting proposition for him.

Challenge the mighty titan and his troubadours (yennskier, M, ongoing - 11.6k currently)

Pirate Queen Yennefer discovers a stowaway on her ship. She plans on making an example of him, but it's a long way to their destination. And perhaps she is more interested in this man than she lets on. But nothing is ever smooth sailing in the life of a pirate. And politics, secrets and lies are never too far behind

Bitter water (yenralt, T, 742)

It had become some kind of game. This thing between them. Geralt and Yennefer always seemed to run into each other. They always parted wanting more

What it’s like to be you (yennskier, T, 1k)

Emotions are raw after the dragon hunt. Jaskier and Yennefer take comfort in each other, even if they would regret it the next day.

If he sinks to darkest night (radskier, M, 1.9k)

A prince gave up the life he knew for his siren until he could not

Sweet as wine (yenbrina, E, 1.8k)

Yennefer is bored at a dull court until she finds she has to bunk with her old Aretuza rival. You know what happens next

AUGUST

When you know I can’t love (geraskier, G, 731)

Blue eyes caught his from across the room. A subtle smile offered that Geralt could not return. Jaskier didn’t seem to notice.

These inconvenient fireworks (geraskier, G, 1.1k)

Jaskier is running late for work and in his rush he doesn't see the terrifying hulk of a man until his coffee is already down his shirt.

It’s not a want, it’s a need (geradskier, E, 2.4k)

Jaskier revealed a fantasy to Radovid that the prince was more than willing to fulfill. And he knew the perfect person to help him.

SEPTEMBER

here we go again (Jaskier/Vespula, E, 2.9k)

Vespula is mad at Jaskier after catching him in his latest tryst. He has a plan to make it up to her. But maybe she is the one making the rules of this game they play. And perhaps she has a few secrets of her own to share.

The beast you’ve made me (radskier, E, 4.1k)

Radovid didn't believe the rumour about the werewolf that was spotted outside of the city until he came face to face with it. He couldn't have predicted what would happen next. Nor the all too familiar face that would greet him come morning.

OCTOBER

You only need to ask (geraskier, E, 3.4k)

Geralt has seen the way the bard looks at him. And at other men. It's none of his business, of course. it was up to Jaskier to discover himself. But that didn't mean Geralt couldn't give him a little push in the right direction.

At the end of all things (milva & jaskier, T, 1.3k)

In a quiet moment in Brokilon, Milva and Jaskier come to understand each other

NOVEMBER

Lamentable (radskier, M, ongoing - currently 5.3k

The trajectory of Radovid's life takes a sharp turn when King Vizimir is killed and he ascends to the throne. The weight of expectations, whisperings in his ear, and a strained relationship trigger a rapid downward spiral.

Meanwhile, Philippa and Dijkstra's plans are all falling into place. They have the perfect king to mould. But it's time to cut some loose threads. Jaskier's life is in danger - and betrayal may come from the person he trusts the most.

Sins laid bare (Tomb Raider, Jacob/Lara, M, 2.3k)

Lara has been obsessed with the mysterious Prophet figure for a long time so goes in search to meet him. When he finally agrees to talk with her via a confessional, things escalate quickly.

A rosebud by any other name (geraskefer, E, ongoing - currently 50.6k)

Jaskier gets a client in a certain white haired witcher who just keeps coming back. The pair find themselves growing close. It's a little complicated, but they think they could make it work. Until one day, in walks a violet eyed sorceress looking for Jaskier.

What follows is an enlightening conversation, a precarious relationship, a new career and a little bit of subterfuge

DECEMBER

Spymasters and secrets (Dijkstra/Radovid, E, 3.4k)

Radovid always pushed and pushed Dijkstra. Sometimes he needed to be put in his place.

I’ll tell you no lies (Tomb Raider, Jacob/Lara, T, 3.3k)

Jacob, having been fatally wounded during Trinity's invasion, asks Lara to kill him. Lara grits her teeth and pulls the trigger. Then she witnesses something extraordinary.

In the bleak midwinter (yenralt, G, 2.9k)

Ciri had been down lately. With Yule coming up, Geralt and Yennefer decide to do something to cheer her up.

The eye of the storm (frinfran, M, 1.2k)

After escaping Thanedd, Francesca and Fringilla find themselves alone with only each other for comfort.

The sea and the sun (yennskier, E, 9.8k)

Finding himself getting into trouble while swimming in the sea, Jaskier is saved by the most captivating creature he had ever seen. A goddess. He makes it his mission to find her again and, when he does, he finds the goddess who saved him comes with a tail and very sharp claws

Mind, body, yours (Rience/Jaskier, geraskier, E, ongoing - currently 36.9k)

Jaskier wakes up tied to a chair, injured and no memory of what had happened. Rescue comes in the form of a strange mage who gives him refuge as he heals. Jaskier quickly finds himself falling under Rience's spell. And when he tells him that Ciri would be safer with him than with Geralt and asks him to take her from under the witcher's nose, Jaskier cannot say no.

Tagging a bunch of people I know write: @bambirex @swanfloatieknight @flootzavut @between-thepages @janjan-the-ninth @cherryjuicegf @damatris @kuwdora

#the witcher #tomb raider #the witcher fanfic #ao3 #fanfic authors #fanfic #2023

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loki-is-my-kink-awakening · 1 year ago

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Nine people tag

Tagged by @ikeepwatchinghelicopters ❤️

Last song:

Last movie: Red White and Royal Blue. I really enjoyed it. Have even bought the audiobook.

Currently watching: Schitts Creek. We're about halfway through our first watch.

Currently reading: Worth by the_dread_e, a radskier fic.

Currently craving: Another day before the work week begins again.

Last thing you researched for writing purposes: Googled Robin Buckley so I could describe what she might be wearing in my big bang fic when Steve picks her up. Started to edit it despite not having fully fleshed out the end.

Tagging @gleamingsilence @weirdandabsurd42 @janjan-the-ninth @karolincki @starrschaos @lgwilt @haeva @typewriterwolf @severeforever if you'd like to do this.

#tag game

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ladynearthelake · 1 year ago

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Fic Master Post

This is a thing people do, yeah? All my fics are up on AO3, but here's a handy list of them all for your enjoyment:

The Witcher

Radskier

never be torn apart 3.7k E

Yennefer asks Jaskier over for an evening of sex. Jaskier insists on bringing Radovid along.

A Great Weight Upon His Head 4.3k G

Radovid remembers a turned back. A dismissal. He remembers stepping forward to follow but holding back because he is no longer welcome. The future he wants burns up before him like the flames that consume Aretuza. A crown rimmed with blood presses heavy on his head. It’s weight tethers him to the darkness. He tries not to dwell on what could have been. So many are depending on him, but he waits. He hopes. The door never opens. The sunlight never pours in. He forgets the touch of it against his skin. For his is king, and that is all he can be.

An Unexpected but Much Anticipated Reunion 4.6k M

With the North in the throes of war, Radovid rides out with his troops to boost morale. He is rewarded with an opportunity to play the dashing hero to someone he never thought he would get to see again.

The Memory of You Lingers Like Our Song 5.7k T

Fifteen years after parting from Jaskier, Radovid has lived a life. After the sudden death of his queen, he travels to the summer palace for some private time. He doesn't expect to run into the bard along the way.

Reminders of You, Pressed into my Skin 3.9k E

Radovid misses Jaskier when he leaves. The bard offers to leave him a reminder.

Together in Song Despite the Distance 3.5k G

A bored prince wanders away from his gilded cage and crosses paths with a bard he's admired for years. Fluff ensues.

Once Upon a Dream 7.5k M

Jaskier is having strange dreams. Is it just his subconscious pining after a certain Redanian prince, or is something more sinister going on?

Fighting Fires 4k M

After Radovid's betrayal, Jaskier wanders the woods searching for Ciri. He finds Rience instead.

Worth 6k T

Radovid may be shackled to the Redanian throne, but he must survive. He needs to prove his worth.

A Lingering Promise of Song 2.3k T

A good-bye and a promise for the future.

Second Verses 2.4k T

This isn't the end of the song. It's only the first verse.

For If Your Goal Be Paradise 6.8k T

Radovid's had it bad for Jaskier since he first heard the bard's songs.

Geraskier

Forever Asking More 5k G

Destiny hasn't stopped making demands of Geralt of Rivia, but someone who matters far more has.

A Very Nice Hat 2.4k

Jaskier laments the loss of his hat.

Ficlet

New Year, New Start 1.3k G

Jaskier contemplates tired metaphors and the start of a new year.

Critical Role

Dorym

Composure 571

Dorian Storm leaves.

Retaliation 3.4k G

Dorian should have realized sooner he was walking in to a trap.

Gray Area 5.1k G

Dorian's past catches up with him.

Promises Kept 3.5k G

Dorian does as he's asked.

Other Fandoms

Pacific Rim - Newmann

Heartless 8k T

Confronted with a choice, Newt gives up something precious for the chance to be with Hermann

Lonesome Series 3.5k G

Newt wakes up in a room. He doesn't remember anything but his name, at least at first...

Good Omens - Ineffable Husbands

Tokens of Gingerbread 15k G

Two stories centering around giving gingerbread as a favor to a loved one.

Final Fantasy 7

One Last Time 789 G

Jessie muses on what comes next.

#my fic #the witcher fan fiction #witcher fan fiction #witcher fanficion #critical role fan fiction #critical role fanfiction #good omens fan fiction #good omens fanfiction #pacific rim fan fiction #pacific rim fanfiction #radskier #flower crown #geraskier #dorym #ineffable husbands #newmann

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kuwdora · 1 year ago

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I am so stressed that I feel like I'm getting an ucler or something. All I wanna to do is just decompress and work on my fic. unclench and not feel guilty about my anxiety and life stuff...or have the stress lingering in the back of my mind. Writing has helped with this in the past. But the last few weeks I've reach the end of my day and my brain is just floating in a bag of anxiety and I caaaaan't make words. I can only think about writing. At least I've managed to unfuck the snarly bits of my draft before this latest Anxiety happened. So tired. I just need to survive this week. just like last week and the week before. I want to make more words....horny philosophical words...vilgefortz...and geralt... it's 18k...i could probably write like 2k about me spiraling out of control about this writing experience but I don't actually know if that would be interesting to read about. my writerly brain has been catching up to me since it got disconnected by The Depression nearly a decade ago. Brain has woken up now. no longer feel like a desiccated husk. it's really is a joy, even when writing is hard. cause i love writing so much and i couldn't do it for so long. and also omg I just all the other fic growing in my brain. words. i want them out of me. and that sweet ambrosia of Finishing Things and posting. my yennskier fic wips... my radskier wip(s??)... all the other wips. piles of wips. my Ciri grief thing. my words. my storiessss. i have well over 60k of stuff that i need to finish, edit, and post. so many words already there. aaahhh.

writing! but anxiety brain. augh.

#writingdora #blogdora #i have so many feelings about my vilgefortz fic and it's just...i love it so much...i want to be able to write more and play around with it #auaughgghhg stress #seriously Friday is like my big anxiety day of yet another interview and a bunch of work calls and i want to be DONE #also i cannot let my brain get distracted to go and make like 3 vilgefortz/geralt gifsets i NEED to finish the fic first ayiyyiyy. my brain #executive functioning. no anxiety. what a dream.#i had a brief reprieve from my insomnia but it's back and i am feeling gross. sigh #textpost

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d--dandelions · 1 year ago

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tagged by @chaos-monkeyy and @cordeliaperry for what i didn't initially realise were two separate ask memes 😂 thank you 💛

i'm gonna merge them both into one big list so this is going to be enormous, sorry in advance 😂🙈🙈 edit: it's horrifyingly big, i had to hide it behind the cut for everyone's good

1. when did you post your first ever fanfic?

july of 2020

2. first character you wrote for:

jaskier XD who i have since written. lots. for. 🙈

3. main character(s) you’re currently writing for:

i feel very unequipped to answer this one XD

4. character(s) you haven’t written about before but plan on writing about soon:

....same with this one XD i have a couple of thronebreaker wips and haven't written for that before so let's go with that

5. fandom(s) you’re currently writing for:

picture me looking awkwardly between my quiet ao3 and my tangled jungle of google docs in bafflement

6. platonic pairing(s) you currently write for:

i simply Have Not done that XDD 🙈 i don't tend to read/watch a lot of romance-heavy stuff outside of fanfic and so fic is basically my one outrageously sappy outlet and i take full advantage of that

7. romantic pairing(s) you currently write for:

...see previous fandom question 🙈

8. your top 3 tags on AO3 (if you post your works on AO3):

watersports

omorashi

wetting

can we all just pretend we're shocked? XD

9. your current platform where you post your works

'tis i

10. snippet of the wip you’re currently working on:

oh no, the thing i'm bad at 🙈 have a unpolished bit of radskier from right at the beginning of that free-use fic

He felt loose and liquid. Something in the wine, maybe. Or, more likely, in the time spent beforehand, with Radovid laying him down on the cushioned table and readying him. Loops of soft rope, wrapped to display rather than confine and, finally, a band of thin leather wrapped around the base of his cock, enchanted so his own pleasure didn’t get the better of him too early.

meme the second:

How many works do you have on AO3?

i've got 15

2. What's your total AO3 word count?

47,634

3. What fandoms do you write for?

so far i've only written for the witcher and sga but who knows what the future holds 👀

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

poached, reunion, got you on my mind, hold that thought, distractions

5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

oh absolutely every time!! putting fic out there is vulnerable and terrifying and it means the world to me when someone takes the time to comment 💛 and, having been on the other side of it, i know how nerve-racking it can be to leave a comment 🙈 so even if it takes me ages, i like to say something back and let them know they're appreciated

6. What's the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

oh god XD maybe this one? i'm a sappy fuck

7. What's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

....pretty much all the others XDD due to aforementioned sappy fuckiness

8. Do you get hate on fics?

i don't think so, at least, no one's ever put any where i could see it. i think i tend to fly pretty under the radar in fandom spaces and i normally stay in my nice damp niche

9. Do you write smut? If so what kind?

fuck yeah 😏😏 although i often lean more into kink than outright smut 🤔 it's all horny shit, which is what counts XD

10. Do you write crossovers? What's the craziest one you've written?

i haven't yet!! maybe someday, although i think i lean more fusion than crossover (disclaimer: i have written neither XD)

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

not as far as i know

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

that's another no

13. Have you ever cowritten a fic before?

i have not, i'm not sure i'd be any good at that XD

14. What's your all-time favourite ship?

i have never and could never be able to choose 🙈

15. What's a WIP you want to finish, but doubt you ever will?

hmmm, i try to leave my options open and never fully count out a fic 🤔 but there's more than one i kind of lost confidence in and am now too scared to open the google doc for 🙈 sigh

16. What are your writing strengths?

i don't think i can answer that

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

i sort of mentioned this before but i think a lack of confidence? sometimes, often, i talk myself out of a fic before i've really given it a try, or i get too bogged down in self-doubt and end up struggling to get any of the actual writing done. double sigh

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic?

hmm, it's never really come up for me. i would say, unless it's a fictional language or a super common, easily translatable phrase i'd probably avoid outright writing in another language unless i could check it with a native speaker. just in case 🙈

19. First fandom you wrote for?

the witcher <3

20. Favourite fic you've ever written?

i think i'm a little biased towards my first published fic? just because it was huge for me to finish and post something and i'm still amazed i pulled it off XD🙈🙈

#whoof that's a lot of dd thoughts #thanks for tagging <333

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panur · 1 year ago

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Radovid Joins the Hansa

At the Radskier discord we are Goncharov-ing what Radovid-joins-the-hansa (aka: Hansovid) AU would be like and here's some of the ideas shared so far:

the exact details on HOW this happens are not set in stone (Did Radovid escape before Vizimir got offed, leaving Pip and Siggi without a convenient spare? After? More importantly, does he have the annuity??), but some headcanons are:

Art major nerd perk, Radovid knows a lot about slightly more practical things, like art, history and architecture and sometimes weird law facts that he personally found interesting

barding- under Jaskier's tutelage, Radovid's playing has improved dramatically, which is great because unlike jaskier who is kind of recognizable, Radovid can more easily go into towns as a perfectly average, unremarkable bard, making getting items/information while keeping anonymity (they usually pair him up w Regis for safety reasons)

Very good at looking dumb and pretty and quite pathetic which makes people underestimate him more

Courtly training so he's polite and educated… and good at remembering faces and names.

THE ONE NORMAL PERSON IN THIS GROUP. Radovid often ends up being the most sensible/practical person in a situation simply by process of elimination. Radovid will read a potion saying 'drink me' and...not do it. He'll see spoopy shit and walk the fuck out. He's the guy who asks who's on the other side before opening to sus knocking.

he's very bad at athletic stuff and takes awhile to build stamina, but at least this time everyone's got horses and boots so it balances out

Radovid is not good at self defense BUT does have some concept of swordsmanship/archery… from like like 20 years ago. He is, however, decided not to be a burden and not to get left behind. He's especially invested in protecting Jaskier- who Radovid is horrified to find- is even more useless than he himself is (bitch you live like this??).; Because Radovid has common sense and self preservation instincts, things jaskier is mostly lacking).

he eventually starts getting lessons from Cahir and Milva when time permits, and healing stuff from Regis. He's got excellent memory and attention to detail, but remains average at swordsmanship/archery.

he is, however, fairly good with a crossbow (no the wrist ones from TW3, the bigger ones ).

he also gets a cute ponytail/braid and smiles more! (original art by naumaxia-art)

Still too weaksauce for the path?

we've named him 'Faro', after a type of Cintran beer

He's a Polish Tatra Sheepdog and was acquired by the group when Geralt was handling a monster infestation. Unfortunately neither the puppo's owners, nor his sheep were spared, but puppo not only survived, but saved Jask and Radovid and became extremely protective of them.

I imagine the acquisition goes something like:

Geralt: absolutely not. Radovid: I'm calling for a vote! Milva: You. You're calling for a vote? Radovid: why not? is this not a democracy? Radovid: I'm of course voting to keep him. Jaskier: I second the vote to keep the very handsome boy! Angoulême: come on Geralt, we'd never have found where the Barghest were coming from without him, AND he saved your bard from walking straight into it. Jaskier: yes Geralt, he saved your bard! Geralt: fine, then I vote no. Milva: I'm not taking care of any more mutts than I have to Radovid: he's clearly purebred! Cahir: still no. Geralt: see? We are done here Angoulême: *the little shit* nunca hasn't voted yet. Geralt: *sigh* Regis, can you please tell them so we can leave? Regis: Geralt: Regis. Geralt: Regis, no Regis: *trying not to smile like he's entirely charmed* … well, he is a very handsome boy.

In the end Regis suggest they at least try to get him to civilization so he can be adopted by a good family, but in the week it takes to get to it, Faro proves himself the MVP, not only will it defend the weakest party members, but it's a vert smart dog who will deter wolves/and will bodily shepherd jaskier away from dangerous areas/items as needed.

the one and only drawback is that Jaskier and Radovid can no longer have obnoxiously loud sex since Faro gets stressed thinking they're getting hurt and will try to intervene, effectively cockblocking them.

Finally Geralt gets some (relative) #blessedsilence

Geralt: *hugging the dog* I'm so sorry i ever doubted you

feel free to add to this!

#it's free real estate prompt just tag me so i can read

#radskier #hansa radovid #hansovid #jaskier #radovid the stern #the witcher #witcher netflix #not canon but should be #prancing plotbunnies #it's free real estate prompt just tag me so i can read #AU'S AND UA'S MAKE PANUR A HAPPY GIRL

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bambirex · 1 year ago

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The Heavy Burden That You Can't Bear

Pairings: Radskier, Radovid/original male character

Characters: Radovid, Jaskier (through flashbacks), original male character

Additional tags: character study, guilt, angst, hurt no comfort, anal fingering, anal sex, flashbacks, self-hatred, alcohol abuse/alcoholism, blood, villain origin story, somewhat, heartbreak

Word count: 2, 212 words

Chapters: 1/1

Summary: He grabbed the oil from the table and coated his fingers with it, cursing the way they shook. The mighty, unapologetic King of Redania. Radovid the Stern. The tyrant. Broken to the point he started breaking everything and everyone around him, punishing the world because punishing himself wasn’t enough anymore. The charming, witty player of a Prince long gone. Now he was just a lonely, angry King who has aged decades in a few years. More pathetic than ever.

The servant gasped as Radovid shoved two fingers inside him without warning. He squirmed as the king prepared him without any finesse, stretching him out quick. He probably didn’t even open him enough before he slicked himself and started pushing inside, if the way his breath hitched in a way that sounded more pained than pleasured was anything to go by.

Radovid grabbed the man’s hips as he buried himself inside. He closed his eyes, letting the warmth of the body before him engulf him. Tight and warm, silky heat. A quiet moan. Radovid let it all take him back to the memories that haunted his every waking moment.

Author's notes: I actually thought I would never write a fic with Radovid at the forefront (Hugh is an amazing actor, but he is just not that interesting to me as a character), but I suddenly had this mega angsty scenario in my head... what if next season we see him as the stern, broken and hateful because of the guilt and everything that happened? And what if he fucked someone and imagined it was Jaskier?? (hand me the script I am ready)

Anyways, I decided to go full angst and also try to delve into his mind to understand him a bit more?

Feedback is super super appreciated, but no hate comments pretty please!

Read on Ao3

He was not completely right- no one would be, obviously. But he will have to do, for now. Even if his hair and stubble were lighter in color, even if his pretty blue eyes looked too sheepish. A watered down, cheap version of the real thing. The vest had a different pattern on it, and the flowers on the blouse had a different color.

None of it, none of him was what Radovid actually needed- but then again, the real thing was not what he deserved either, so he had no right to complain, now did he?

The servant went to his knees quickly, bowing his head down deep. Radovid stared down on him with utter disinterest.

“Your Majesty,” the servant said politely. He looked up carefully, and when he was looking up at Radovid from beneath his lashes, for a fleeting moment, he resembled him a little better. Radovid hooked a finger under his chin and lifted his head to inspect his face.

He was probably a bit younger than Jaskier, too. Not by much, Radovid made it very clear for his minions that they were not to bring a wide-eyed virgin boy to his chambers, lest they wanted their head to separate from their neck. They did a better job than last time: the whore they last brought to him practically had nothing in common with the poet. This servant, whom Radovid hasn’t even seen before, looked the part a bit better despite his obvious flaws. If Radovid strained his mind (and perhaps had one more goblet of wine), he could imagine Jaskier instead of him.

“Get up,” Radovid ordered. The servant stood quickly, head still hanging down. None of the flair, none of the confidence. No cheeky smiles and teasing glances. Radovid sighed deeply.

He gripped the other man’s jaw and leaned in to capture his lips in a kiss. The servant winced at first, probably appalled by the stink of the alcohol on his breath, but he knew better than to resist a king. He opened his mouth willingly, letting Radovid slip his tongue inside.

Jaskier panted against his mouth when they last kissed. He kissed like his life depended on it, grabbing onto Radovid’s shoulders, caressing his chest and holding his face so gently, meanwhile his clever tongue explored his mouth needily. Jaskier was so hungry for love, for life. He put everything into his kisses, a silent plea of “please, love me as much as I love you, please, take care of me the way I’ve taken care of everyone in my life”. His begging has fallen on deaf ears, unfortunately.

The servant’s cheeks were flushed when Radovid pulled back. He bit his lip sweetly and fluttered his lashes up at him. Now, that look… that look was very similar. And even though Radovid wanted nothing more than a perfect copy of what he had for a fleeting moment before losing it so spectacularly, now it was almost too much, too painful.

He grabbed the servant at the hips and spun him around, pushing him against the table. A soft moan left his lips as he bent over oh so willingly. Radovid watched the curve of his hips, the way the strands of his hair curled just slightly at the back of his neck.

He pulled down the man’s trousers along with his underwear. The servant pushed his ass out, but Radovid was too busy freeing himself of his own breeches to pay much attention to his pleas to be touched. His cock was already hard, and wasn’t it so ironic, that the self-loathing did nothing to flag his desires, in fact, it may have even fed them more? That his body seemed to chase the shame that came with it every single time he ordered someone up to his room, dressed like the doll of the one that got away?

He didn’t get away, a voice in his head reminded him. You lost him.

Radovid took himself into his hand and squeezed, almost painfully, punishing himself wherever he could. If he was just a little faster, if he could have made his mind up before it all collapsed on him. If he was just a little stronger, able to say no and stand up for what he wanted. By the time he did that, it was already too late. He could hate Philippa and Dijkstra or the rest of the world for it all he wanted, but deep down, he knew exactly that the only person he could truly blame for it, was himself.

He grabbed the oil from the table and coated his fingers with it, cursing the way they shook. The mighty, unapologetic King of Redania. Radovid the Stern. The tyrant. Broken to the point he started breaking everything and everyone around him, punishing the world because punishing himself wasn’t enough anymore. The charming, witty player of a Prince long gone. Now he was just a lonely, angry King who has aged decades in a few years. More pathetic than ever.

On that night in the shed, him and Jaskier made love twice. First, Radovid asked Jaskier to take him, offering himself up to the bard- encouraged by the beautiful vulnerability that Jaskier has shown him, Radovid decided to open himself up to him in every way. To let him inside his body and his heart. Jaskier was a gentle lover, all feather-light touches and soft nothings whispered into his partner’s ears. He held Radovid as if he were something precious, and looked into his eyes with such deep adoration as if he deserved it, as if he were something to be cherished and not literally his doom on two legs, a demon that would put a curse on his entire future.

His thrusts were so gentle, that sometimes Radovid barely felt them. His cheeks were so beautifully flushed, his eyes glistening with something that looked suspiciously like tears, so caught up in the moment, offering his heart on a silver platter, only for Radovid to step all over it.

He fucked him so sweetly, never taking his eyes off Radovid’s face. Radovid often wondered if he knew in that moment, that he would be crushed come next day, that he saw Radovid again, but this time, he truly saw him, as someone who tried so hard to be the man that Jaskier needed and deserved, but failed.

They lay together after, on Radovid’s coat that he put down on the floor. They were on their sides, Radovid holding Jaskier from behind, hiding his face in his hair so Jaskier couldn’t see the anguish on his face. Jaskier sighed as he laced their fingers together over his soft stomach. Radovid idly caressed a thumb over it, in lieu of an apology he couldn’t utter.

He then asked Jaskier if he could take him, too, and Jaskier told him he didn’t need to ask. He was so willing, so open, always. He truly could put down the mask that Radovid only managed to pull halfway off, the strings clinging to his face mercilessly.

Jaskier made a move to face him, but Radovid couldn’t handle that. He couldn’t look into his eyes, couldn’t take him on his back with his legs around his waist the same way Jaskier did to him. He did not deserve to see the beauty of his poet under him like that, and the guilt didn’t allow him to pretend to be as kind as Jaskier was.

He rolled Jaskier over onto his stomach instead. He fucked him like that, and how he hated himself for not being able to give Jaskier the same courtesy he was shown, that he couldn’t be gentle. He thrusted into him hard and fast, his hands gripping at Jaskier’s waist, fingers leaving marks on the soft skin. Jaskier moaned so prettily under him, never questioning the rough treatment. He arched his back up for more, taking Radovid so well. Radovid gritted his teeth and squeezed his eyes shut against the tears as he pounded into Jaskier mercilessly, already starting his future of breaking beautiful things that should have been handled with care.

Maybe it wasn’t the heartbreak that turned him into a monster. Maybe he already was one to begin with.

He could have slowed down his pace any moment, and the fact he didn’t was the testament of his failure. Even before the betrayal he was preparing, before the dagger he would push straight into Jaskier’s heart, he couldn’t treat him well: he chased his own, selfish desire. He needed to fulfill Jaskier before he would carve him out so hollow.

He came deep inside Jaskier, flowing into him the same way his tears flowed from his eyes. Jaskier’s hair was matted with sweat, his clothes crumpled. There were indeed marks blossoming on his hips, and his hole was red and puffy. Radovid ruined him, and oh, this wasn’t even the worst.

Radovid groaned in agony as the memory faded. He grabbed the back of the servant’s head and pushed him down against the table, making him moan. He didn’t sound as sweet as Jaskier did. Radovid dug his fingers into his hips, hoping the marks he would leave there would look similar to the ones he left on Jaskier- has Jaskier run his fingers over them the next day while he cried so prettily, mourning what they could have been, if his heart hadn’t led him into the arms of a coward?

“Your name…” Radovid wheezed out as he grinded against the sweet spot inside the servant, not to pleasure him, but to draw out his own high. The servant took it as a question.

“My name is…”

“No!” Radovid yelled, slapping his ass. “I don’t care what it is! You have a new one.”

“Your Majesty…”

“Your name is Jaskier.”

The servant let out a sound of confusion. Radovid gripped his hair and yanked it hard, forcing his head backwards until his back arched, pulled tight like a bowstring against him.

“Say it!” Radovid ordered, his voice somewhere between a sob and a howl. “Say your name!”

“I’m… I’m Jaskier!” The man cried, fucking himself back on Radovid’s cock. Radovid growled as he buried his face in the servant’s neck, his thrusts growing erratic and unrhythmical.

“I’m sorry, Jaskier,” was what Radovid sobbed out when he spilled deep inside the servant, “I’m so sorry.”

He collapsed over the man, trapping him between his body and the table. The poor thing didn’t even get to come, but since when was Radovid kind enough to care about that? If he could hurt someone he loved so much so badly, what was not jerking a stranger off on the list of his crimes?

He stumbled on his feet when he pulled out. Sweat caused his shirt to stick to his skin. His entire chamber was filled with the stink of sex. Radovid wiped a hand over his face, sticky with tears.

The servant sheepishly tucked himself back into his trousers. He looked like a right mess. Radovid noticed they forgot to put eyeliner on him. It smeared on Jaskier’s face after he sweated through his orgasm, and it ran down his cheeks as he cried when he found out that Radovid used him. Next time, Radovid would make sure his next doll would wear eyeliner.

“Get out,” he ordered. The servant took a shaky bow before he fled the room.

Radovid grabbed the goblet off the table and swallowed the wine down in one go. Half of it trickled down his chin. He didn’t care all that much.

He looked at the full body mirror that stood in the corner. He dropped the goblet on the floor and put his dick away carelessly, not even lacing up his breeches as he walked over to the mirror.

He took in the sight of him, reddish blonde hair matted with grease and sweat. Eyes hard, unforgiving, reddened. His beard, much longer and thicker than what fitted him, stained with wine.

He was utterly disgusting.

Radovid punched the mirror right in the center where his sweaty, pathetic face was. The glass shattered and cut up his hand. One shard edged itself into his skin. Radovid watched the blood pour out with rapt interest.

He didn’t have any more tears left in him to cry, so he started laughing hysterically, cackling at his own misery until he collapsed on the floor from exhaustion.

He slept on the floor and dreamt of Jaskier calling him a fucking idiot while he bandaged his injured hand.

It made Radovid smile in his sleep.

#radskier #the witcher fanfiction #the witcher fic #my fic #radovid #jaskier #i actually don't know what this is but inflicting pain on everyone is something i greatly enjoy

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panur · 1 year ago

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(totally not against Op's take, just wanting to add my input)

THE THING IS, i do think it is a song related to Geralt, since it seems to make use of specific wording for bath scene scene from S1, but not in a positive geraskier way...

Divorced from anything but what's seen in the actual screen, it just seem like this is just Jaskier being unusually direct in stating that he's done with his one-sided feelings for Geralt.

The greatest songs are made up of unspoken words of love Of them I have had enoughWith you, I have enough With you, I am enough I am, I am enough

He's done silently pining for a man who's never going to return his feelings, a man for whom he'll never be enough -and please note i am not trying to say enough in a negative way, it's just Jaskier admitting to himself it's just not gonna happen- and expressing a hope/desire for reciprocal, equitable love

do I think that he wrote the song about Radovid specifically, in the moment? I'm firmly stuck in the maybe-towards-no camp simply because of their interactions before this scene being very brief and mostly 'chaperoned' by Philippa, prior to this scene all he knows about Radovid is that the guy wants to bone him, which isn't new or novel for Jaskier, even if he doesn't seem to be against the attention.

but AFTER this scene?

Radovid is visibly moved! He's the only person in the whole room who knows enough about Jaskier's backstory + has the perceptiveness to read between the lines to what Jaskier's saying (the love he had for Geralt, that it was unreturned, that he's finally done with pining for it), and addresses it directly by asking Jaskier if the witcher knows how lucky he's been to have this kind of attention/devotion.

He openly admits there is more to Jaskier than he originally thought, and expresses his interest/admiration for what he's sensing is there- and i find very telling that this is the first time Radovid actually looks at Jaskier not like a piece of meat he'd very much like to season but as someone, well- extraordinary.

and jaskier RECOGNIZES it? He's visible flattered and charmed, but we also get the clear sense that, just as Radovid understood what Jaskier meant, Jaskier also got what Radovid is saying to him at the moment, and that it meant a lot to him- to the point his immediate next scene is vespula teasing him about having a crush, which is apparently utterly uncommon (and that jaskier seems to find adorably embarrassing)

ANYWAY, TLDR, my personal take is that Extraordinary things is not a song for Geraskier, it's a song about Jaskier, first and foremost... and hopefully, for future radskier.

full offense but i really fucking despise when geraskier shippers have jaskier writing extraordinary things about geralt in fics. like, the song is a radskier song. it is for them. it is about them. it literally describes their relationship. i don’t care if people think the watsonian explanation for the song is that it must be about geralt (which, no, there’s still no definitive watsonian explanation for it) because it’s not a watsonian song in the first place; it’s a doylist one. it was literally written by joey about jaskier and radovid’s relationship in place of scenes/dialogue between them. extraordinary things is a radskier song. stop making it about geraskier!!! it’s not for you!!!

also, like, y'know what? fuck off because there can, actually, be a watsonian explanation for extraordinary things being about radovid. jaskier literally wrote it in the moment when radovid asked for one last song. he was like, oh you want another song? you want another song? i’ll give you another song. and he wrote it right then and there for him. so there!!!

#the witcher

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bambirex · 1 year ago

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It's A Game We Play: Chapter 11

Pairings: Geraskier, Yennskier, Radskier

Characters: Jaskier, Geralt of Rivia, Yennefer of Vengerberg, Radovid, original female characters, Essi Daven, Priscilla, Ciri of Cintra, Valdo Marx, Vespula

Additional tags: inspired by Mamma Mia! (movies), crack, fluff and humor, alpha/beta/omega dynamics, omega jaskier, alpha geralt, alpha yennefer, beta radovid, awkwardness, jaskier is a good parent, protective jaskier, weddings, found family, post mpreg, confusion, banter, alternate universe-modern setting, jaskier is having the worst time of his life, valdo is here to make everything worse, insecure jaskier, internalized slut shaming, light angst, family drama, there was only one bed, sharing a bed, valdo marx being an asshole, valdo marx and his ukulele from hell, drunk jaskier, mild language, sexual humor, jaskier in a dress, well it's a skirt but still, jaskier is essentially a milf in this, mentions of depression, gender issues, not in the strict sense of the word but just in case

Rating: teen and up audiences

Full word count: 34,838 words

Chapter word count: 2,983 words

Summary: Jaskier's daughter is about to marry the love of her life, and she decides she wants both her parents at her wedding. Only problem is that Jaskier has slept with a little too many people in his youth, so the identity of the other parent is a mystery. That does not stop the bride-to-be from inviting three potential daddy candidates and unleashing absolute chaos in the process.

Otherwise known as Jaskier's terrible horrible no good past decisions leading to terrible horrible no good outcomes. Also known as the Mamma Mia! AU nobody asked for, but I wrote it anyway.

Chapter summary: Jaskier and Radovid re-learn each other during a dinner date. Geralt and Yennefer do some reminiscing of their own.

Author's notes: Next date is here! Also, that's not a typo in the title, that's just a horrible pun.

Read on Ao3

Jaskier tried to talk Radovid out of spending so much money on him, but of course, he was insistent on spoiling Jaskier rotten. And, well, Jaskier was only human. There was only so much pleading he could do before his stomach and his heart prevailed, and he caved in to the fancy restaurant date. Radovid looked utterly smug that he won. That smirk certainly did not help Jaskier’s situation.

He had plenty of ammo to fire in this particular challenge, too, namely that deeply cut-out sleeveless blouse he picked for this occasion. Radovid managed to be all smooth, opening the car door for him and offering him his arm as they walked inside the restaurant, very much on top of his game- up until Jaskier took off his blazer and revealed what was underneath.

Radovid nearly knocked a glass off the table as his eyes landed on Jaskier’s chest.

“My eyes are up here,” Jaskier smirked. He crossed his arms over the table and leant forward, letting the lapels of his blouse slip further apart. Since his exes ogled him so openly and with so much genuine awe during the bridal shower performance, Jaskier realized a couple of extra pounds surely didn’t bother either of them, in fact, they all seemed to be digging a forty-one years old Jaskier just as much as they did a twenty-one. So, he let himself revel in the adoration.

“Sorry,” Radovid stuttered. He quickly pulled himself together while the waiter arrived to take their order.

“You still love shrimp, right?”

“I would sacrifice the entire goat herd for shrimp,” Jaskier replied with a grin. Radovid laughed.

“You would sacrifice those goats for a slice of dry bread.”

“Touché. They’re the bane of my existence.”

Radovid smiled at him over the rim of his glass. Jaskier found himself smile back easily. It all took him back in time, to that evening when they met, flirting over their drinks with the same playfulness. Many things changed in the meantime, and many things stayed the same. Jaskier needed to figure out what it all meant- until then, he would allow himself to enjoy their date.

Radovid’s phone pinged. He glanced at it and hesitated for a few seconds before he turned it off and upside down. Jaskier raised an eyebrow at him.

“Are we waiting for someone else?”

“No,” Radovid laughed. “It’s just Ezra. My right-hand man, so to speak. He’s managing the company while I’m away. He’s just letting me know everything went well on today’s conference.”

“I’ve seen you were getting like, hundreds of e-mails,” Jaskier said. To Radovid’s surprised look, he was quick to add, “I wasn’t going through your phone or anything like that. The screen just kept lighting up. Aren’t you worried about it?”

“The company?”

Jaskier nodded. Radovid hummed. He stared down at the napkin on the table while he collected his thoughts.

“Well, I would lie if I said I wasn’t,” he explained. “It’s a huge responsibility. Obviously, I don’t want it to fall apart. I kept everything in hand all alone, so… it is a bit worrying I don’t know what’s going on with it, yes.”

“Do you like it?” Jaskier asked softly. “Managing a big company like that?”

There was a beat of silence. The confidence seemed to waver in Radovid’s eyes.

“Sometimes,” he eventually said. Jaskier believed that was the most honest answer.

He knew that Radovid had a tendency to pretend like nothing could phase him. He was more emotional than Geralt, for example, but he also kept things bottled up in a way. While Geralt buried his feelings deep inside and refused to talk about them most of the time, Radovid pretended he had everything under control, even when he didn’t. It was a defense mechanism, the same way Geralt’s silence, Jaskier’s cheerfulness, and Yennefer’s coldness was. Luckily, the person sitting across from him at the table knew him better than to fall for this fake confidence.

“Put the positive and the negative into the two trays of a scale,” Jaskier said, “where does it tip?”

“The negative,” Radovid said, surprisingly quickly. It seemed like he was willing to let the façade go, just for a little bit, just for Jaskier. “I literally don’t have time for anything else. I haven’t even had a normal relationship in years, just some quick one-night stands. It consumes practically all my time. Franz Joseph died because of that.”

Jaskier stared at him in utter confusion. “The emperor?”

“My tarantula,” Radovid clarified. Jaskier nodded, still not feeling any wiser. He had zero idea Radovid owned an eight-legged pet at one point, but then again, he kept mistaking his mangoes for coconuts, as well. He clearly needed to re-learn him.

“Couldn’t even keep a pet alive due to those responsibilities. So, yes. I do enjoy the money that comes with it. And I do enjoy feeling important, as well. But it is too much, sometimes.”

“When you say feeling important,” Jaskier said, tapping his fingers against the table, “do you mean you feel like you cannot be important any other way? I mean, maybe… you feel like you need to prove something?”

Radovid stalled a little by re-filling Jaskier’s glass. He bit his lip as he leant back in his chair. Their eyes met. Jaskier waited patiently.

“Most execs in this business are Alphas,” Radovid replied, a little quieter. “My brother, too. My father was one. Betas… are a little bit looked down on. You know, we’re the boring ones. No heats, no ruts, nothing extraordinary. I do need to work twice as hard for people to see my worth.”

“Maybe it’s just you,” Jaskier told him honestly. He knew there was no point in beating around the bush. They weren’t kids anymore. “Maybe you’re telling this to yourself, even though other people actually do see your worth. Maybe… you just haven’t been told enough that you were good at what you do. I’m sorry about that. I know you’re extremely smart, and stronger than what people think of you at first glance. I know you’re caring, too.”

He looked down on the table. Their hands weren’t all that far from each other. Jaskier swallowed, his heart pounding heavily as he let his index finger brush Radovid’s faintly.

“You used to tell me I was special,” Jaskier continued quietly, “praised me to the high heavens. You deserve to feel the same way I did when you told me those things.”

He looked up, into Radovid’s eyes that bore into his deeply.

“You don’t have to prove anything to anyone. Don’t wear yourself down for some old, wrinkly-dicked Alpha’s validation.”

That finally made Radovid laugh. He gently tapped his finger against Jaskier’s.

“Thank you,” he said earnestly. Jaskier’s smile widened. His heart jumped when Radovid said, “Actually, Amaryllis said that to me, too. She really is a lot like you.”

“The apple doesn’t fall very far from the tree, huh?”

“Yes,” Radovid’s smile brightened. “You know, I would be the happiest man if it turned out she was mine. Because everyone can be proud to call her their child, and because it would mean we created something together. You and me. Actually, I’ve been thinking. You know, I really like her. I like talking to her, getting to know her and everything, but… I’m not sure we’ll ever get closer to a solution like this. Why don’t we just take a DNA test?”

Jaskier’s heart dropped to his stomach. He swallowed heavily. That was the logical choice, wasn’t it? This mess would all be over with that. That was what they all wanted, right?

Then why did the idea seem so sour, suddenly?

“They don’t even need to draw blood, anymore,” Radovid continued, “they just use a cotton swab in your mouth. The results are almost one-hundred percent trustworthy, and they arrive in a few days.”

“And then, the winner takes it all,” Jaskier whispered, more to himself than to Radovid. “Amaryllis… and me.”

The waiter arrived with their food. They remained silent until he left. Jaskier felt Radovid’s eyes on him all the while.

“You hate the idea,” Radovid stated. Jaskier sighed.

“It just seems so final.”

“Is that not what we’re looking for?”

“Yeah… we’ll talk to the others about it,” Jaskier promised. He gave Radovid a faint smile. “Well, all in all, you still have the brains.”

At least Radovid’s bright smile made the strangely uncomfortable feeling inside Jaskier dissipate.

Geralt only needed to follow the sounds of loud giggling and excited chatter to find them. He smiled when he spotted them in the tiny vegetable garden behind the inn, all three of them dirty from their toes to the tops of their heads. Ciri had an unnecessarily large dirt smear on her cheek. Judging by the dirt on Amaryllis’s hands, it was safe to assume how it got there.

Yennefer had her hair pulled up into a bun on the top of her head. A few locks escaped it, framing her face. She was a lovely vision, Geralt had to admit.

Amaryllis noticed him approaching at first. She waved at him with a grin. Geralt waved back.

“Dad, thank God,” Ciri groaned, “this carrot is stuck in the seventh depth of hell.”

“We’ve been trying to drag it out for five minutes,” Yennefer added with a laugh, “it’s a stubborn carrot.”

Geralt went to his knees next to them. He inspected the stuck carrot. He couldn’t see that Ciri gently elbowed Amaryllis behind him, and that they fled the scene quietly giggling.

“That’s in deep,” he stated. He looked up at Yennefer. She crouched close to him, their shoulders brushing. It made something funny stir in Geralt’s chest.

“Are you sure you’re in dire need of that carrot?”

“That sounds so cheeky,” Yennefer smirked. Geralt stared at her in confusion, until the penny dropped. He felt his cheeks flush.

“Shit. I talk like Jaskier and Radovid.”

“Come on, as if you never made cheeky remarks,” Yennefer teased. She gently elbowed him. “Did you lose your flair or what, old man?”

This seemed to be Yennefer’s new favorite nickname for him. Geralt didn’t mind it as much as he was probably supposed to.

“Are you saying you miss my jokes?”

“They did make my life brighter.”

Somehow, Yennefer’s voice wasn’t nearly as sarcastic as Geralt expected. When he looked up at her, he saw something genuine in her eyes.

“Did they?” Geralt asked, genuinely curious. Yennefer bit her lip. Then, slowly, her lips curled into a smile.

“They did. We had fun together, until it fell apart.”

Geralt hummed. He grabbed the carrot and tried to ease it out of the soil. It didn’t even budge.

“I always loved making fun of stupid reality shows with you,” Geralt said, the words suddenly tumbling out without his permission. “You had the best narration.”

“We always said there was no way people are that stupid in real life, and look at us,” Yennefer laughed. Geralt snorted softly.

“I mean, we used to fight over the stupidest things even back then.”

“Because you put the empty milk carton back in the fridge!”

“You always mis-matched my socks.”

“All your socks are black, Geralt. You can’t even notice the difference.”

Geralt found himself grinning at her. Yennefer shook her head, but her smile was fond. Her eyes drifted to Geralt’s lips, then down to his arms, and then to the carrot.

“Maybe we can try and pull it out together,” she suggested. She placed her hands over Geralt’s. Her skin was so warm.

Together, they started pulling on it. Geralt deliberately slowed his movements to feel Yennefer’s hand on his a little longer.

“Stuck like your knots in Jaskier?”

The carrot popped out. Geralt snarled up at Valdo.

“Want me to shove this down your throat?”

“I bet Jaskier said yes to your question, I won’t, unfortunately. I have to say, seeing you struggle like that, I feel very lucky to be a Beta. I never got stuck in him.”

“This shit again?” Yennefer huffed. “No one believes you!”

Valdo only grinned. He looked down on their hands that were still intertwined over the vegetable.

“That’s up to you, love. Keep pulling on each other’s carrots, I won’t bother you.”

Geralt rolled his eyes as Valdo sauntered away.

“Does this man have some kind of built-in chip that activates his bullshit whenever we’re around?”

“I think he’s just like that,” Yennefer said. She suddenly noticed they were still essentially holding hands over the carrot. She pulled her hand back with a blush.

“Thanks for the help,” she said softly. Geralt smiled at her earnestly.

“I shouldn’t have had dessert,” Jaskier groaned. “I need a seatbelt expander.”

“Come on,” Radovid laughed, “you deserved it. We’re almost home, anyways.”

He caught Jaskier sending him a strange look. Radovid realized he accidentally called the inn “home”. He chuckled at himself. It did feel more homely than his expensive flat, but he needed to be more careful with his choice of words.

“I haven’t had lava cake in years,” Jaskier said with a dreamy sigh. “I mean, the actually good kind. Not the store-bought version where instead of hot chocolate sauce, a sad piece of dog poop plops out of the cookie.”

“Sounds lovely.”

“Yeah, that’s unfortunately all I can afford,” Jaskier replied with a chuckle. It would have sounded easy for the ears of someone who didn’t know Jaskier, but Radovid heard the slight ting of nerves in his laugh. He glanced at him, and indeed, Jaskier was chewing on his lower lip.

“You’re a business owner, too,” Radovid started, carefully choosing his phrasing. “But you seem to enjoy it a lot more than I do.”

“Well, it’s not a mega company,” Jaskier replied with a snort. “Just a small inn. But I love my staff, and the guests. I spent most of my childhood there, and then a big chunk of my adulthood as well, even before I permanently moved to the island. It has sentimental value.”

“But?”

“How did you know there was a but?”

“I heard the way you hesitated. So?”

Jaskier shook his head with an amused little laugh. He looked at Radovid, narrowing his eyes at him.

“Sometimes, I hate you for being so observant.”

Radovid grinned. “I bet. Tell me.”

“Well, ugh,” Jaskier shuddered. “This is awkward. Talking about this with someone who could pull a diamond out of his pocket anytime…”

“Hey,” Radovid reached over and placed his hand on Jaskier’s knee gently. “I won’t judge you.”

“I… well, it is a small business. A seasonal one. In the warm months, it’s pretty nice, but in the colder ones… families do come here for Christmas, of course, but it’s not the same. And in this economy, well, people might not want to run to The Dandelion right away. So, I…”

“You’re struggling?” Radovid asked softly. Jaskier swallowed audibly.

“I can pay my bills, and I’m not on the brink of closing or anything like that, it’s just… like you, I manage it all alone. The Dandelion definitely brings in less income than your company.”

“I’m sorry,” Radovid told him, “you should have said something.”

“I didn’t want to burden you with this. Or Amaryllis. She doesn’t know either.”

They finally arrived at the inn. Radovid parked the car, still checking Jaskier’s reactions. He seemed to be deeply lost in his thoughts. Radovid didn’t like that frown on his face.

“We’re here for you, you know,” he said softly, “me, and Yennefer, and Geralt, too. And Amaryllis. You don’t need to carry all the weight alone.”

Jaskier looked at him. He gave a soft sigh, which turned into a smile.

“Using my advice to you to motivate me? Damn.”

“Is it working?”

“We’ll see.”

Jaskier unbuckled his belt, but he didn’t exit the car just yet. He glanced at Radovid again, seemingly hesitating a little.

“If we take that test,” he started slowly, “you know there’s a chance the results won’t have your name on it.”

“I know.”

“And how would you feel about that?”

“On one hand, if she’s Geralt’s, that would mean you were already pregnant when we had sex, so I double-filled…”

“Radovid, please,” Jaskier scoffed, “be serious now.”

“Right, sorry.”

He stared at the steering wheel. How would he feel? He wasn’t sure himself. He grew very attached to Amaryllis, and of course, his feelings for Jaskier were back with full force. If Amaryllis was someone else’s, he would lose it all. Jaskier’s love, his bond with Amaryllis, even his connection to Yennefer and Geralt.

But that was still the logical decision. Much better than running around like a bunch of headless chicken. That was what he needed to keep in mind, even if his heart bled at the thought that maybe his own idea will cause his demise.

“I guess I need to take whatever happens head-on,” he replied with a small smile. “Thank you, for having dinner with me.”

“I had fun,” Jaskier said softly. His lashes fluttered. Radovid felt like he was drawn like a moth to a flame as he leant in. Jaskier let out a little sound that made him halt.

“Can I kiss you?” Radovid asked. Jaskier looked down on his lap, worrying his lower lip between his teeth. Radovid waited for him patiently.

“On the cheek,” Jaskier eventually replied. Then, he caused Radovid’s heart to leap when he added, “for now.”

Radovid gladly took what he could get with a smile as he pressed his lips to Jaskier’s warm cheek. He smelled so sweet, and he made such a soft sigh. Radovid let himself linger a little bit, and Jaskier allowed him.

His smile was so beautiful when Radovid pulled back. Right now, Radovid decided that no matter what would come next, he could feel like he already won.

#geraskier #yennskier #radskier #a/b/o #jaskier #geralt of rivia #yennefer of vengerberg #radovid #omega jaskier #alpha geralt #alpha yennefer #beta radovid #the witcher fanfiction #the witcher fic #my fic #mamma mia au

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monsterboyfriend · 1 year ago

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Alright! I've finished watching and have had time to sit with it so here's some more notes:

1. Everything related to Jaskier this season has been amazing. All his interactions with Geralt and Ciri have been great as well as with Dijkstra and Philippa. Radskier is such a love letter to Jaskier fans, honestly (and they better wait at least a season before fucking it up). Joey has always been stellar at portraying Jask and it really shines here with his increased prominence in the story. A+ for everyone.

2. Yenralt is good. As always, Henry struggles to really sell it. He has a few good moments where he seems genuine but his performance is overall passable. Anya does much better, but it really takes two when it comes to chemistry and I'll admit, even she seems a bit artificial. The writing for Yenralt, though, is very strong and helps a lot with the chemistry. That and the directing, especially in episode 5 is really good at framing them as a believable couple.

3. I love the monster made out of poor unfortunate test subjects. Genuinely freaky.

4. Ciri feels so relatable. I really understand and appreciate her determination to do the right thing. I hope she never loses that passion. It makes me wonder, if you do the right thing and it backfires, is it still the right thing? She's also clever in a way that doesn't contradict her impulsiveness. She's very fleshed out, and Freya plays her with a lot of courage and, more importantly for me, humor. I just love her.

5. I really wish there was more Fringilla, and that fans would talk about her more. I'm glad she got out of the wine cellar, but I just hate that no one besides Cahir (and maybe Francesca) cares about her. I just want someone to give her a hug.

6. I understand much more now why Cahir is the way he is and I feel really bad for him. Emhyr is all he has. It's fucked up.

7. Please, do not try to sell me on Emhyr being this tragic, misunderstood hero. I DON'T like him. I'm interested in his motivations and backstory, but please keep him as a villain.

8. I still can't believe Francesca and Filavandrel are a couple.

9. I enjoy Dijkstra and Philippa, but their dubious nature makes me unsure if I should be rooting for them (I'm sure this is intentional).

10. I think Triss and Istredd could be a good couple, but the fact that they're both rejected Yenralt love interests makes the potential of their coupling feel incredibly contrived.

11. Sabrina is pretty funny and I like that she's constantly causing trouble and just generally being a dick and at the same time serving cunt. Flawless.

12. Valdo and his troupe are so entertaining. He's so cliche in all the right ways. He's so petty and his tunes are so catchy. I love him and his devious mustache immensely.

13. I like the fresh idea of having Episode 5's story bounce around a bit. The whole episode is framed as an after party discussion between Yen and Geralt which is both cute and unique. It also makes it feel like a mystery, which it kind of is. It also helps break up what would've been a very long, uninteresting oral retread of the episode if the story was written chronologically. Unfortunately, it was like that anyway because of just how many scenes repeat with extra context. I feel like they could have cut down on all of that, especially because I had to constantly check to make sure I didn't accidentally rewind the episode. They could have at least changed the camera pov for a lot of these. I overall enjoyed the episode though and thought it did the most for developing Yenralt. And it was still very fun. I especially like how Geralt loved the shrimp hors d'oeuvres and Yen had to stop him from eating them all!

14. I love Radovid, even though I was cautious at first (and tbh I still am). I wonder what is gonna happen with Radskier and what they'll be like as a couple once the idolization wears off and Redanian politics butts its ugly head at them.

15. Needs more Yennskier.

16. Speaking of Yen, Anya is amazing as always, but...... Idk how to put this. She's got a lot going on for sure. She's a mother now, she's trying to protect Ciri, she's mending her relationship with Geralt, regaining the brotherhood's trust, starting a mage conclave, etc. But I feel like the only thing that really affects her character in ways that are interesting is her relationship with Ciri (I want to see her struggle, learn and grow as a mother) but ALSO whenever she's not in a scene with Ciri, that becomes uninteresting too bc it's either about just protecting Ciri or how she's in love with Geralt. That should be right because she's wanted a family for so long and is fighting to keep it but for some reason it just doesn't fully resonate with me like her arcs in previous seasons did. Can someone explain? Don't I want good things for Yen? Do I just want her to suffer??? Or is just that she feels a bit..... one-dimensional?

Okay, still watching, but... some notes:

1. I'm loving this season so far. So much better than last season!

2. Ciri just gets better in every season. The first season she was meh. The second season was better. But this season, she's really entertaining and I'm actually looking forward to her scenes.

3. I feel so bad for Fringilla and Cahir!

4. Radovid is surprisingly likeable and interesting. Not exactly fascinating but then again he needs time to grow on me.

5. Geralt is, as usual, just okay.

6. Every time Jaskier's on screen I can't help but smile (even though every joke he's ever made in this series has been lame, but then again, that's part of his charm)

7. Just saw Valdo for the first time and immediately I love him

8. Yennefer is as lovely as always but her storyline is kinda boring compared to last season (one of the few things I really liked from S2). Now that she's at Aretuza though I have hope that it'll pick up, especially with the drama between her and Ciri

9. Philippa and Dijkstra.... I don't know how to feel about them yet.

#the witcher #the witcher spoilers

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