folkooc | October 2022 Test Drive Meme

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*tdm

October 2022 Test Drive Meme

OCTOBER 2022 TDM

INTRODUCTION

[ TDM Questions ★ Jump to Comments ★ Full Navigation ]
Welcome to Folkmore's monthly Test Drive Meme! Please feel free to test drive any and all characters regardless of your intent to apply or whether you have an invite or not.

All TDMs are game canon. You can choose to have your TDM thread be your introduction thread upon acceptance or start fresh. Each TDM will provide a scenario for how characters arrive in-game that particular month.

Playing TDMs will allow characters to immediately obtain canon items from homes especially weapons or other things they may have had on their person when they were pulled from their worlds! There will always be a prompt that provides some sort of "reward" to characters who complete certain tasks.

Current players are allowed to have in-game characters react to TDMs via the Network or make a log with the prompts. Current players are always encouraged to tag new people on the TDM!

TDM threads can be used for spoon spending at any time by characters accepted into the game.

[ Prompt One ★ Prompt Two]

SHINING

Content Warnings: Possible insanity via freezing. Temporary nullification of abilities.

COLD AS YOU

You were falling...

The world snaps into place all at once; you are laying on the ground, surrounded on all sides by towering bushes that stretch up towards a beautiful sunset sky. The bushes were clearly flowered at one point, but now the flowers have died and all that remains are browning leaves that are beginning to fall. On the chill air you can sometimes hear the sound of music, too faint to completely determine.

As you stand, you are filled with an intense desire to find someone. You might have an idea of who, but chances are you do not - you just know that somewhere ahead of you is someone that you need to reach. Whether they are friend or lover or enemy remains to be seen.

You wander the maze. If you're the impatient type and you have the ability, you might try to fly out but you will simply be vaulted right back down if you do. Something clearly expects you to play by rules which were never actually explained. As you move through the twisting passages of nature, you will notice that there is a frost creeping along the branches on either side of you. This frost brings a deep chill with it, and it encourages you to move faster, to find that nameless person now now now! If you take a very long time to wander the maze you may very well be on the verge of freezing and half mad with the desire to find someone. If you try to force your way through the bushes, the frost will crawl over your limbs and inspire both the freezing and near madness at once.

When you find your Person, the cold evaporates. The air suddenly feels merely crisp, and the leaves on the bushes seem more vibrant. The two of you now can focus on finding the way out - so much easier now - but any sense of urgency will have passed and you may just walk for hours, talking and sharing things about yourselves.

It is possible to solve the maze alone, but it is much easier (and more pleasant!) with someone else.

KEEP YOUR BRITTLE HEART WARM

When you exit the hedge maze you will find a stunning display of lights: hundreds of candles and lanterns decorate the ground and hang from trees, illuminating a clear path over a gently sloping hill. When you crest the hill you can look down and see a beautiful hot spring sprawled out below. It too is lit up by hundreds of lights, all of them glowing under the late autumn sky as it darkens towards night. There are changing rooms where you can stash your clothes (yes, there are bathing suits for the very shy) and bathing stations to ensure that you are clean before entering.

The water of the springs soothes madness and heals physical injuries or any frostbite that may have been sustained in the maze. It also relaxes you, making you perhaps more likely to open up to anybody else present.

The hot spring is staffed by many mice. They don't speak, but they squeak to one another in such a way that it sounds like they are singing - high lilting chants that seem to promise that everything will be okay. They are happy enough to band together to bring you towels or hot tea. The spring is open 24/7, always with lights to fight the cold and darkness of winter.

HIGH STRANGENESS

Content Warnings: Monster sighting, optional violence.

GLITCH

Folkmore has trains and of course the cat bus, but it also has roads, mostly utilized by horses and bicycles. Maybe you're looking for the convivence store, or maybe you just like walking. However it happens, you find yourself on a lonely road at dusk. It is unusually quiet, almost as if the world is holding its breath.

Suddenly you hear the sound of wings. A man-sized creature soars above you, something with huge red glowing eyes. It drops something at your feet: a walkie-talkie. The creature lands some distance away, staring at you, and a thought arises unbidden in your mind:

Help them.

The walkie crackles and you can hear someone speaking, asking if anyone is there. It is another Star Child, brought into this trial as well. They are in danger somewhere nearby; maybe stuck on the edge of a cliff, or trapped on a rope bridge - whatever it is, they need someone else to help them get to safety. If they have any powers, they have been temporarily nullified, but if the rescuer has powers they remain intact. That's where you come in! Using the walkie you must communicate with one another so that the rescuer can reach the person in trouble in time!

But what if you don't make it in time? Or decide that you're not the hero type? Well. The rescue-ee will suffer a terrible fate... for a few seconds. Then the entire world fuzzes and resets, but this time the roles have been reversed. Both parties will remember what has already happened, so if you just ran off into the woods with no intent of helping the first time you miiiight get your just desserts! This process will repeat over and over, people switching sides every time, until someone is finally rescued or the sun rises. Whichever comes first!

If you do succeed at a rescue, you will hear the rustle of huge wings once more. This time you don't see the mysterious creature, but you will find a mystery trunk. Inside you will each find some of your canon clothes and a canon item. Looks like teamwork is rewarded! Nearby, there will also be some unenchanted weapons sticking out of the ground: basic swords, guns, shields, etc.

BAD OMEN

You don't necessarily have to have completed the rescue trial to get some goodies, though! Those aforementioned weapons are scattered all over Folkmore. But if you just go to grab any of them you'd better be prepared to fight; after all, nothing comes for free!

As soon as you have pulled a weapon out of the ground, a tall, man in a black suit and hat will appear from seemingly nowhere and attack you. He has no weapons but he is extremely strong. He's also just really creepy - his face looks like it might be fake, somehow. The only way he can be killed is with a wound to the heart - any other supposedly mortal injury will result in another man in black appearing. It is possible for someone with no combat training to beat these creatures, but they really might appreciate a little help from someone with more experience!

The good news is that they won't mess up your clothes any, as none of these creatures bleed. Because that is totally normal.

Good luck!

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[Jaskier's hand holding the ring falls somewhat uselessly back into his lap before he looks down while Tech speaks of broken promises and disappointment, and the foolishness of hope. He rubs at an eye with his free hand and he purses his lips to keep a pout from forming in his expression. The last thing he needs to be doing is seen sulking like a child right now. Not that he thinks it would make a difference one way or another. Tech seems to have made up his mind about exactly how this is going to go without pausing for a moment to consider Jaskier might want a say or the possibility that his say might differ. And whether it because of youth and the typical resistance to any sense of authority other than their own dictating a life choice, or Jaskier's personal distaste for the abandonment of all hope like that, part of Jaskier bristles at it. And he wants to say something that gets some of that irritation out of his system, but there's a counterweight that stays his tongue for a moment. Because even if he is finding this all horridly unfair of Tech, there's more at play than just the mere decision to control. There's grief and loss, and no doubt a desire to keep a distance to protect his heart, and Jaskier cannot begin to fault him for that. As much as he would like to, he cannot.]

[So, instead of the brunt of his feelings coming forth with sharp tongue, Jaskier draws a breath and tempers it as best he can. Which arguably isn't dramatically better, but it's something.]

That's it then, hm? It's all decided and I haven't a say because I came to you wrong and not at all what you want. [Jaskier lifts his head without looking at Tech.] I'll grant you that I'm not as experienced with such matters as being in-between worlds as you and I suppose my future self, but... We're here. Together. And rather than looking at that as meaning something or, I don't know, an opportunity to...

[Know him in a different way. To have more time. Literally any form of opportunity than just this certainty that nothing good can come of it would be preferable! Jaskier purses his lips again as he shoves off the tree stump to get a few paces away, waving his free hand in a flurry as he can't really summon the words without any further bitterness returning to his tone despite his best efforts. His other hand grips the ring tightly in a fist. He wants to pelt it so hard that it lodges itself permanently in that stupid skull of Tech's even if it wouldn't exactly help and he'd probably only feel better for a moment or two afterward. He wants to just yell and scream for a moment, too, wordlessly for as long as it takes to get it out of himself right now because it just all feels so un-fucking-fair. But he doesn't want to do any of that because he looks at Tech and even through his irritation and anger at being essentially told what to do, Jaskier still feels empathy for that sadness, that howling loneliness that won't stop simply because Tech opts to start avoiding Jaskier.]

[And it's that same empathy though that makes Jaskier want to yield to Tech's implied desire for distance. Because even if his absence won't make it necessarily lessen, his presence certainly isn't making it any better. Jaskier's gaze drops to the forest floor, the tension in his shoulders following suit as defeat settles in almost faster than the irritation a moment ago had. Jaskier's next few breaths begin to burn as a hurt begins to settle. A hurt he doesn't fully understand because he doesn't think he ought to have any claim to it.]

It's not fair, [he mumbles to himself, leaving it vague enough that it's likely hard to tell if he's referring to the situation itself or Tech's handling of it.]

[A god from another world doesn't love him. Never did. Which meant he also didn't hope or want to find him. It's not his great and grand story. So the rejection shouldn't hurt. Not like this. Perhaps not even at all. The suffocation of hope certainly shouldn't. And yet, Jaskier cannot help but feel his own heartache beyond just the witnessing of another for this that he does not know.]

[Walking the few steps back to the stump, Jaskier peels the borrowed windbreaker off and places it where he was sitting. He looks at the ring in his palm for a moment before setting it down atop the windbreaker. If Tech wants to leave it here, throw it into the woods, or keep it, it didn't matter. Jaskier just wouldn't be the one to take it. It's not his weight to carry and Tech's made it abundantly clear he doesn't think Jaskier as he is now can regardless. And maybe he's right. And maybe that he's right hurts just as much as everything else.]

[Jaskier stands there a moment uselessly, rubbing circles into his fingertips. He wants to stay. He wants to go. No choice feels right. No choice even really feels available to him when it's already been decided.]

...I'll see you around, [he says faintly, seemingly acquiescing because doing as he's told seems to be all he can do. Even if it's unfair and even a bit cruel to tell him all of that and then tell him to forget it. It's with a great deal of effort that Jaskier makes himself take the step back and turn away.]

[ He doesn't expect Jaskier's indignation -- if only because the stakes shouldn't exist. Jaskier doesn't know him. He hasn't invested anything into him. Maybe a half hour tops of conversation. This should be a simple thing for him to walk away from because he doesn't know the god with no name but if you gotta call him something, call him Tech. He doesn't know the songs they wrote together and the ones they wrote apart for one another. He doesn't know the late night conversations that at points turned into late night lovemaking. He doesn't know the trials they endured and what they had to overcome. And likely he never would. What happened in Penance would probably only be remembered by Tech alone.

Yet Jaskier approaches with the self-righteous anger of youth. Someone not being given a chance to prove themselves, and Tech wishes he could understand it's not a matter of not being given the opportunity. It's because Tech just simply cannot handle another heartbreak. Not after losing Ava and Jaskier both in one fell swoop. And how would this be any different? It's not like all of a sudden Jaskier will remember knowing Tech back home. That he will grow up and think, ah....remember that time I spent my second eighteenth birthday in a romantic entanglement with a god? Not to be confused with the time I spent with the Witcher at literally the same point in my life.

This is destined to be forgotten too. And Jaskier does have the right words to sum it all up in the end.

It's not fair. None of it.

But Tech sits there in silence as Jaskier works through his own feelings. And he only shifts when Jaskier shrugs off the windbreaker and approaches, setting it down next to Tech. His brows draw together because the return of the jacket and ring both seem to signify a rejection of even the help Tech had been offering. Because he literally just said he would help him. And they were both very much stuck in this maze. He didn't mean forget about him immediately. Just when they were in a safe space and Jaskier could mingle with the people here -- make friends and lovers and people better than the company Tech would offer him, where every conversation would just be solemn and sad.

His eyes lift to Jaskier's retreating back, a mild panic rising at the thought of Jaskier walking off into the unknown woods alone. Or maybe it's just a mild panic at the thought of being left alone himself. ]

You're not wrong.

[ He blurts out, fingers pulling so hard to his own palms nails bite deep into skin. He barely notices the pain. ]

You're never wrong. Everything about you is...vibrant. And good. And something to be appreciated. Even if sometimes you talk way more than you should.

[ A more quiet aside: ]

Or you love people who don't deserve it.

[ His eyes flicker to the ring sitting there, staring until his vision blurs before he blinks it into clarity. He should let Jaskier walk away, but Tech also recognizes something else. There had been a bit of fight in Jaskier -- a willingness to say what he wants, to stand up for himself. And even if it wouldn't matter in the long run if Jaskier returned to his world and grew up there, this aspect of his personality shouldn't be brushed aside. Because maybe Tech would become part of the problem, too. Not letting Jaskier feel comfortable enough to express his own desires and then feel he has to swallow them. ]

You're so young, Jaskier. You're still shaping yourself and who you are, and that's not to say you don't know anything. Because you do. I just suggest you forget me because this isn't the sort of weight you wanna be saddled with -- a relationship history you didn't even decide for yourself. It can't be comfortable to be around someone who knows so much about you already -- especially parts of your life you haven't even lived through yet.

[ Tech slowly looks back toward Jaskier. ]

But it's your decision. You always have a say.

[ Make the choice for you. And not what you think will make me happiest. Let this be the path your life takes as long as you're here. ]

[He stops walking away when Tech speaks. He doesn't turn around and look at him, but he stops and he listens without interrupting. Just at the very sound of Tech's voice, Jaskier wants to fold into an overwhelming sense of relief. On a pragmatic and selfish level, he really didn't want to have to navigate this maze all by himself given how very little time it took for him to start wandering in circles or into dead ends. Tech at least seemed to have some sense for where he was headed, but even if he didn't, the company was nice over spending time all on his own. (And he knew without a doubt that was both due to whatever external influence was at play and his own difficulties coping with solitude.) But he hesitates to give into that relief immediately, wanting to hear Tech out entirely first. Tech reaching out to him like this seemed too tenuous to assume it wouldn't end in somehow doubling down.]

[In the end, it does veer quite close to it. Dangerously close. But Tech mentions Jaskier's age, alluding to his inexperience, without allowing that to become the center of his point. At least, that's not how it lands for Jaskier this time. Whether there's some clarity to Tech's expression of his concerns that had been lacking before or Jaskeir simply doesn't have it in him at this point to grow agitated once more, he's able to hear it a bit better. He doesn't want to weigh Jaskier down with something he might not be able to carry. Not now when he's on the cusp of finding himself and taking those first few steps towards who he's meant to be.]

[Jaskier lets out a shaky sigh before finally, he turns back around. Both hands end up on his hips and it's not quite as it is when he's older wherein his indignation made for a poor showing of authority even if there was no denying the strength of just how indignant he was in that moment. Jaskier's holding his ground, but the confidence isn't as firmly rooted in his stance, making it something more he's trying rather than doing.]

[But his trying is earnest. There's so very little denying that.]

You're damned right I do. So, let's get one thing absolutely clear: you don't want me saddled with anything. I haven't said anything on the matter one way or another. But now that you've decided to listen... [Jaskier trails off, glancing away from Tech. It's not exactly as though what small amount of confidence he's got manages to waver. Jaskier hadn't exactly thought this far into what he wanted to say. Which is hardly his fault. He'd been prepared to walk off without having his say respected at all! Jaskier rocks from his heels up to the balls of his feet and back down again as he considers it.] I want us to be friends. Yeah. And not what you're proposing with the whole you helping me when I ask...thing. I mean, yes. That bit. But I mean all the other bits that come with friendship. None of this lurking in the background of my life or whatever dreadful and terribly depressing idea you've come up with.

[As he's talking, Jaskier folds his arms and makes his way back over to Tech, stopping in front of him as there's a beat and he adds,] I think your idea is shit, for the record. It doesn't have to be this all-or-nothing thing where either I feel pressured to pick up wherever it is we left off or you're just a person in the background of my life, you know. There's quite a bit between those two points.

And before you go on about how it's not comfortable in any of that middle part, I'll have you know that I wanted to be your friend even when I thought you were just reading my mind somehow, alright? So, if I was willing to still be friends with someone who would no doubt be privy to things that mortifying is an egregious understatement at some point in our friendship when I wasn't being careful, then I think this is perfectly fine.

Besides, it's not like you know everything there is to know about me. I mean, you met me when I was what? Thirty? Forty? Gods, don't tell me if it's fifty. I don't want to— [Jaskier holds up a hand and quickly shakes his head. He is still very much eighteen and doesn't want to contemplate old age just yet when there is so much else in front of him.] The point is, who the hell at that age talks about themselves when they were eighteen? Hm? So, maybe, Mr. O Mighty God of Technology, you might try a bit of humility here, quit being such a know-it-all, and consider you still have plenty to learn about Jaskier the Bard, as you put it, or Julian.

So, you're welcome for affording you this opportunity. I suggest you don't snub it again. My nineteenth birthday will come eventually and you'll be expected to not only give me a decent present, but you'll have missed out on an entire year's worth of things to know about me.

[...Tech may have clarified his point successfully to Jaskier, but Jaskier's point starts to drift a bit. Some of it is because he, of course, wants to defuse any remaining tension as much as possible. And the possibility that Tech rejects his friendship—genuine friendship, not the sort where Jaskier is ultimately using Tech to his own benefit—is still quite real to Jaskier. So, it seems better to couch everything in a joke at the end to try and pre-emptively remove the hurt and sting that could still yet come. But he hopes and quietly prays that Tech doesn't deny him this. That he's willing to at least try here rather than making up his mind and deciding for Jaskier what they ought to be instead of allowing him to figure it out with him.]

[ God, he doesn't want to shoot Jaskier's idea down immediately. He doesn't want to come at it with that boomer energy, all like how do you expect a friendship to even work? They'd never been friends. Tech's not sure they could ever be friends. He never could with Monika. It just became this awkward mess, rife with sexual tension that they both inevitably caved to once Ava vanished.

And what kind of friendship was Jaskier expecting? The part where he talks incessantly and Tech just sits there sad and melancholy because it sparks a memory of the past. Like Jaskier talking about the birthday present. It's lighthearted and playful, but it makes Tech think of giving Jaskier the lute and being absolved of having to give a present ever again. Or the stupid birthday pinwheel pancakes he gave him. Tech supposes it wouldn't be too different from Geralt who probably sits around and broods while Jaskier talks. Maybe it would remind him of home. ]

We can try.

[ He says, not with gusto or confidence in the idea. It's mainly because he doesn't want to shoot Jaskier's idea down. He doesn't want to deflate the part of him that's willing to propose outlandish ideas or speak about the things he wants. Even if Tech doubts his own ability to uphold things on his end.

He picks up the ring on top of the stump and holds it for a moment, allowing himself to hold the pain and anguish of a relationship lost, to know things would never be the same and to mourn for what is now gone and never will be. And then he lets it go, opens his hand and allows the ring to tumble to the forest floor. He can't hold onto it right now. Maybe he would change his mind later, retrace his steps into the maze in a frantic search for that tree stump. But for now, this is where what he knew dies and where something new has to take its place.

Tech picks up the windbreaker and shrugs it back on, feeding the tread into the zipper and dragging it back up. ]

You were forty-three when I met you. But I would have sworn you weren't a day over thirty at max. And that's only because of the stubble. If you were clean shaven, you really wouldn't have looked much different.

[ Tech, prone to noticing the smallest details, could see the fine lines. But they were fine. Not deep set as some get at the age of forty. And when Jaskier smiled. God when he smiled, with that childish glee -- he would emanate a youth eternal. Tech's eyes water and he draws in a breath. Stop fucking crying.

He steels himself, shuts down emotions and starts walking back on the path they'd veered off of, hoping against hope the ghost of Jaskier will just stay tethered to that stump. ]

[Well. It's perhaps the best Jaskier could have hoped for. But to say it was a half-hearted acceptance of Jaskier's proposal was a significant overstatement. It felt much more akin to an old hunting dog following along after its master on yet another hunt out of a sense of duty and loyalty since it had lost the urge or will to give anything much chase a long time ago now. He really didn't expect Tech to be leaping for joy at the prospect of being friends, but... Well, he doesn't actually know what he expected in lieu of any sort of enthusiasm. It's a beyond unique situation and Jaskier wouldn't know how he'd handle it if their positions were reversed even if he did have some way of knowing exactly how he was when Tech fell in love with him. Still, even as Jaskier accepts that acquiescence (at least for now), he can't help but feel a touch disappointed all the same.]

[Jaskier stands aside to let Tech take the lead again, but he doesn't follow immediately after him. Instead, he crouches down and picks the ring back up, dusting the imaginary dust and dirt off it that it accumulated in its few seconds on the forest floor. He doesn't take it though. There's no quietly slipping it onto his finger or into a pocket. Jaskier had already made the decision he wasn't going to bear its weight and he intended to stick to it (even if it was a finely made ring and he did quite like it). He'd also already decided that whatever Tech wanted to do with it was fine with him, too. So, if Tech wanted to leave it here, then it ought to stay. But it didn't seem right leaving it on the forest floor like that. After that deep of a love, after all those promises both kept and broken... It deserved a better resting place than that.]

[Looking at it in his hand, Jaskier huffs a silent laugh through his nose because it's only been a day with Geralt of Rivia and here Jaskier is considering how the past ought to be laid to rest when perhaps normally, he would have kept it whether to satisfy his vanity or to ensure coin for food in his belly. Instead, he places it gingerly on the center of the tree stump.]

[Quiet as he can, hoping and praying that Tech can't hear him those couple of paces away, he promises,] I'll look after him for you.

[Not in the same ways because he can't. But in his own way and in his own time, Jaskier can look after Tech, he thinks. He can make sure this grief doesn't swallow him whole, snuffing out the light of whatever future he was meant to have.]

Until you can tell him I told you so and give him hell for losing your ring.

[Rising back to his feet with a faint smile, Jaskier turns back towards Tech and calls to him,] Oi! Wait up!

[Jaskier scurries after him as quickly as he can, but still keeps a couple of paces behind once he catches up. The last time he walked directly beside Tech, it hadn't gone so well and he thinks it's best if he doesn't invade Tech's space as much as possible. It's also perhaps for the best that Tech doesn't continue ruminating over the past (or rather future from Jaskier's perspective), but Jaskier's certain he can't likely think of anything else.]

So, what should I call you? God of technology seems a bit wordy. [Jaskier pauses for just a moment to let Tech answer before quickly adding,] Which there's nothing wrong with it if that's the only name you've got! A lot of gods in my world have had their names forgotten actually. So, you'd be in good company if that's the case. Now that I think about it, I'm not sure there is a named god of technology where I'm from, even among the elves... Although theirs are always magic and forests and rivers and what not. Not exactly industry or modern society.

Seems a bit silly when you think about it though. We can remember Epona from the old gods well enough and build little shrines for her when she just watches over our horses. But whoever it is that's supposed to be responsible for the advancements we've made through the centuries is completely forgotten.

[Jaskier crinkles his nose in displeasure at that notion because it does seem to him that they should be held in similar regard. Much of society would have fallen apart or simply never been without horses just as it would have without the invention of the wheel.]

Seems quite typical of the academics though to want all the credit for themselves, doesn't it? Granted, I'm not quite certain the gods and goddesses of my world are like you at all. Fairy tales likely have more truth to them than they do. [Jaskier huffs a small laugh at that.] I'm sure my tutors from the temple would love to hear me say that. Still... It doesn't seem right to be forgotten. Real like you or not. Stories are meant to be remembered and told. Not abandoned the moment something seemingly more interesting come along and especially when it's self-interest like that.

[Jaskier then seems to realize just how long he was speaking, not giving Tech the opportunity to answer his question because first, he thought he might offend him and then a thought occurred to him, and Jaskier immediately got carried away. He flushes a little given that Tech's already pointed out his penchant for rambling, and it's hard not to remember all the times he was told by his tutors and instructors about the importance of speaking when there's something important to say. (Which was perhaps a polite, learned way of telling Jaskier to shut the fuck up after humoring him long enough.) The trouble is, Jaskier's never really understood what makes something important to say. It all feels important. Especially now when Tech is dwelling and Jaskier is grasping at straws trying to find anything that might spark a conversation.]

Sorry, [he clears his throat.] I asked for your name and didn't give you a chance to answer before I ended up in a diatribe against the fragile egos of academics in my world.

[Smiling sheepishly, he stops talking (perhaps finally) to let Tech give him a name and, if he's lucky, perhaps even contribute to the conversation now that Jaskier's not stealing all the air in the maze.]

[ Tech opens his mouth to answer, but promptly closes it as Jaskier snowballs into a rambling avalanche. There's no stopping the words from tumbling out now -- not even an interruption would do the trick. So Tech lets Jaskier talk at him, only half listening at first. But rather than tune out entirely as likely is the case for many people Jaskier speaks with to this very great length, Tech tunes in. Because in all of his grief about losing what he had, he didn't expect a young Jaskier to so clearly see him, too. And this is without any context clues. Just simple speculation about being nameless and forgotten.

When Jaskier finally circles back around to asking his name again, Tech wishes he had something more significant to give him. A true and proper name. But he still doesn't. He's still waiting to either figure his own out or to have someone give him something better. So he merely shrugs. ]

You can call me Tech.

[ And it seems like he might stop there. Give a short answer to all Jaskier says until he adds after a beat. ]

Gods are a bit like fairy tales in a way. At least where I'm from. They only exist because people need them to exist. We are the embodiment of human worship, existing through their will alone. And if there comes a time where it's not their will for us to be, we will vanish. None of the gods know that better than me -- the embodiment of human innovation. Every era of advancement, I will die and be reborn as something new -- forgetting the life before it.

[ A pause. ]

And that's why I don't plan to go back. I planned to go with you to your home. I would have given everything up -- all of my godhood for a chance to finally live and die the way I dictated.

[ And maybe that will still happen in the long run. Tech doesn't know. But it's going to be a lot harder finding his way to Jaskier now. He doesn't know where he is or how this world operates. He's completely in the dark. Just like they are in this maze -- lost and wandering. His steps slow after a time. ]

Okay. We got two options. We can keep going at this in the dark and trying to find a way out or we could build a fire and wait for sunrise when it will be a lot easier to see. You got a preference?

[In that beat between a name given and further elaboration, Jaskier thinks he is likely going to carry the bulk of this conversation himself because really? Oh, sure, Jaskier didn't necessarily need to say all of that, but if that's the best Tech could really come up with, then—! But thankfully, it doesn't come to that. Before Jaskier can shift from the mild frustration at such limited contribution to the conversation to pushing ahead with still trying, Tech speaks more to his existence as a god.]

[Jaskier's eyes widen at first and skitters forward to be next to Tech again, abandoning his decision to afford Tech more personal space. Admittedly, in this sudden excitement, Jaskier isn't listening as well as he perhaps ought to be when Tech first starts his explanation. He's simply too delighted to hear Tech saying more than a few sullen words at a time or providing a long-winded warning that they both know well enough by now Jaskier isn't going to pay any mind to when it comes to his decision-making. But once he's caught up and giving Tech his undivided attention, he's able to settle enough to listen and get the important parts of it.]

[And then there's so much he wants to say to all of that. What Tech says of his existence is far more tragic than anything Jaskier was speculating about a moment ago. At least in Jaskier's thought process, it was more a robbery of credit that resulted in a fall into obscurity. Frustrating and unfair though that may be, it was not the same thing as not only having one's life taken, but to have it dictated beyond one's control as well?]

[He says Jaskier can call him Tech and it becomes so painfully obvious it's not a name with that kind of existence. Not one given—because what need is there when he will be someone or something else entirely in short order—and certainly not one claimed. It's more a moniker than anything else. Something that allows whoever and whatever he is to take it over upon his rebirth or discard just as easily without any discernible difference. Jaskier's near half-tempted to suggest that they ought to come up with a name for him then. Something that has more weight and meaning and separates him from his other lives, and defines exactly who he is now. But Jaskier hems and haws just long enough on it that he doesn't interrupt before Tech is able to speak about the appeal of following Jaskier to his world.]

[Falling a little behind once more as that sinks in, Jaskier's expression turns thoughtful for a moment. It's only for a moment though as the conclusion he reaches is a very easy one.]

Then I'll call you Tech, [he says, catching back up,] until you pick something else for yourself.

[Jaskier doesn't know, of course, that it's the same conclusion he reached in Penance, but he probably wouldn't be altogether that surprised to know it. Much as Jaskier craves to carve some special place out for himself—and naming a god certainly would rank even higher than being the bard that follows the White Wolf around to tell the tales of his heroic deeds—he wouldn't want to do that to Tech. So many forces beyond Jaskier's understanding have had their hands in making and unmaking him when that's not what Tech wants at all. And it's so important, Jaskier thinks, that when people who haven't had the luxury of control over their lives want something, it ought to be protected.]

[And he'd really like to think whatever he might be like in the future, he'd still believe in that. After all, why else would he allow Tech to give up his very being for something else if he didn't believe so strongly in protecting Tech's desire for freedom and control over his own life?]

[Jaskier leaves it at that though. Much as there is a fairly solid temptation to tell Tech that the option of returning to the Continent was still there if he wanted it, Jaskier doesn't think it would land well. There'd probably be too much concern that Jaskier was trying to fill boots that didn't belong to him rather than the reality that Jaskier wants Tech to have that opportunity all the same even if the shape of them is different than what it used to be. Because Jaskier thinks he should still have that. It shouldn't be contingent on whether Jaskier and Tech are friends or something more or even something less. He'll just need to wait for a better time to make mention of it. When hopefully Tech can hear the true reason behind it and not mistake it for something that it isn't.]

Well, as much as I adore walking, [Jaskier says to the question that eventually breaks the companionable silence,] I've already walked several miles today actually. And that was after being knocked unconscious, tied up, beaten, and having my lute broken.

[Jaskier's first day with Geralt was eventful to say the least.]

And I'm not sure you noticed, but these boots were not exactly meant for walking about in forests or across valleys.

[And Jaskier honestly thinks he deserves some form of commendation for not complaining about the ache in his feet at this point. By all rights, he should have been complaining the moment he arrived here.]

So, yes, I think a break of some kind is in order. Do you, ah, actually know how to build a fire?

[Because Jaskier sure as hell does not.]

[ Jaskier might see it when he's caught up to Tech in one of those moments where he's been lagging and drawing near and lagging again. But after his agreement to call him Tech, there is a faint smile that breaks through the brooding exterior. If only because it is nice to find the traces of Jaskier in there -- the hints of the man Tech will inevitably fall for. And also a tiny bit frustrating because even this young, Jaskier still leaves this ball in Tech's court. Like, it's just a name. Why is it any more important that he chooses it for himself as opposed to having someone he loves gift him one?

But maybe someday, in a less dour mood, Tech would bring these points up. And maybe he could even persuade Jaskier that a great way to make a name for himself here is to name a god through his songs. Manipulative? A little bit. But harmlessly so.

That would just require getting his lute back. And maybe if Tech can do that here, too. Then a name would be the least of Jaskier's troubles. It's just....how does one get things in this world? Do they talk to the fox? The fox was pretty keen to just dump them all off and fuck off somewhere else, so is it easy to even get an audience with her?

But he looks back at Jaskier as he describes his day and there is a mild concern on his face at the mention of being beaten because first of all, how fucking dare whoever touched Jaskier! But second, he had been going continuously without complaint and even took the time to be more concerned about Tech when clearly he was pushing himself more than he should. How was it that Jaskier could simultaneously be so self-centered and selfless? And how was it even after such a terrible day, Jaskier still continued to follow Geralt for the rest of his life? This man truly is something else when he sinks his loyalties into someone.

But before addressing any of that, Tech responds to the question with a huff of (gasp!) playful energy. ]

Uh, did you forget who I am? Hello. God of Technology. I was the reason y'all have fire, dude.

[ Tech walks just a little more to find a nice spot. There's a downed tree across the forest floor that can provide a place to sit that isn't the cold ground. Or it could serve as a backrest when it inevitably got too uncomfortable to sit on. Meanwhile, Tech gets to work collecting what's in the immediate area. Larger tree branches, sticks and twigs as well as some dried tree bark for kindling. He uses his relic's flashlight to search the ground for the appropriate stones and then returns to set everything up.

Stones strike together repeatedly until the brilliance of sparks explode from them. It takes a few more for one of those sparks to catch in the kindling and Tech blows on it gently to give the fire life. The tiny flames get fed twigs and when they grow big enough, he gives them larger branches -- building in a triangular shape.

It's a modest fire. They might need to sit close together to get the maximum warmth out of it. But...Tech doesn't mind. And he's sure Jaskier won't either. He claps once and holds his hands out as though presenting the flame with a silent ta-dah before he settles in front of it and looks over at Jaskier -- lifting a hand so he could sweep aside Jaskier's bangs and get a better look at the cut on his forehead. Did that come from here or from being hurt back home? Maybe a combination of both. ]

Are you okay? After being...beaten unconscious and what not?

[At Tech's playful indignation, Jaskier can't help but grin. He holds his hands up as though surrendering and there shall not be any further doubts from him. Except, of course, now it does really invite Jaskier to playfully question and doubt him as much as possible since finally, finally he seems to be reacting with something that isn't so serious. He doesn't right away though. Once a spot's been found, Jaskier sits himself down and stays out from underfoot rather than helping with constructing the fire.]

[As would likely come as no surprise to Tech though, silence doesn't particularly suit Jaskier all that well, and although the task of starting and building a little fire doesn't take all that long, Jaskier doesn't sit there quietly watching. He starts humming the beginnings of a new song to himself. Jaskier doesn't share the words that pass through his mind as he's experimenting. It's easier to work aloud like that in the absence of anything to write with, but he doesn't think it's such a good idea when the verse is about the pair of them. For starters, it's too new and everything is far too uncertain. So, committing it in some capacity to singing aloud feels like he's getting ten steps out ahead of where they are right now. For another, he doesn't want Tech to start dwelling again on what he's lost and that seems a surefire way to do just that. So, it's better that the words are Jaskier's alone for now and are just enough to capture the feelings that came with Tech's revelation for himself.]

[Besides, he's not given much time to work it out before Tech's built the fire and Jaskier must stop to give proper credit where it's due with a pleased, quiet round of applause before he settles nearby.]

[Normally, this would be the bit where Jaskier would become melodramatic to such a degree that there would be no doubt he was merely playing up such minor injury for attention. He would, after all, not want to be so convincing that he gave anyone genuine concern where it wasn't warranted! There's absolutely no fun to be had in that, but there is fun whether the other plays along or attempts to deny him the attention. And yet, when Tech brushes Jaskier's bangs aside to get a better look at the cut on his forehead above his right eye, there's no sudden theatrics or grand retelling of what occurred.]

Oh, that was just a well-aimed ball bearing from a sylvan. [He does still say it with a bit of pride though, much in the way a child might brag about not crying after a scrape they received after falling down. It very clearly doesn't really occur to Jaskier that any lower and he could have very well lost his eye rather than consciousness, and it's perhaps best that it's never pointed out.] The beating came after from a she-elf once Geralt came to.

But it's only a cut and a few bruises! Nothing I won't recover from in a matter of days. And Geralt reassured me the salve he applied will keep it from scarring, so all the better.

If you're given the chance to rest.

[ He lets the bangs fall back into place and returns his hand to his lap. Tech's eyes veer away with a thoughtful frown. ]

We don't know what awaits us outside of the maze.

[ Tech doesn't mean to be doom and gloom. It's his natural distrust and skepticism coming into play. He did come from hell, after all. And maybe this is just another branch of it. Maybe he escaped into something worse. His eyes flicker back to Jaskier as he seems to reconsider. Because for Jaskier's sake, he feels like a little false optimism is in order. ]

But I'm sure we'll find some place safe.

[ A beat. ]

You'll find some place safe. Because we will have two places. For both of us. Not that, um, you can't come over. I just...

[ His brow furrows, flustered, and he falters to silence -- letting that silence put a period at the end of all his awkward rambling. If this was his Jaskier, obviously they would be staying together. They might still have two separate places depending on how this place works, but those places would be interchangeable where they could stay with one another and make it a home. Wherever they were together, even here out in the forest. That would be home. Because home was the place in each others hearts. And this Jaskier, young as he is, is a wanderer. Far too exploratory to put down roots. ]

You were brave.

[ He says, finally. ]

Are brave.

[ And in Tech's eyes, Jaskier will continue to be so very brave, even if he doesn't see it for himself. But he doesn't elaborate. Doesn't talk of his future because this is the Jaskier of now, and he probably would get fed up being compared to a future self. Tech knows he would have.

A single moth drifts close to the fire. Tech reaches out to gently cup it in his hands. Wings beat against closed fingers and he peeks in on it through a crack between his thumbs. It's just a normal moth. No fangs or hellish features. Nothing abnormal about it at all which makes it abnormal in a way. ]

The, um. The place between worlds where I came from. It was hell. Literal hell. Except we weren't dead. They were pulling in living souls and trapping them there. I was there for almost two years before that fox found me and set me free.

[ His hands open and he lets the moth float away, watching its skyward ascent. ]

There were no stars. There was no sun. The sky was constantly red. The lakes were made of blood. The creatures were all abnormal. If there were moths, you could bet they would suck your blood or carry a curse with them.

[ Something dawns on Tech, and without thinking he suddenly reaches for his shirt -- prying it up to see the skin above his navel. It's clear. Perfectly, beautifully clear. No marks. No curses left behind. Tech touches where the mark used to be with a wondrous smile before letting the shirt fall back into its modest place. The smile somehow keeps on his face when he looks at Jaskier again. ]

I really can't wait to see the sunrise.

[Jaskier's nose crinkles a little as Tech lets go of his bangs, but not because he starts in with the pessimism so much as mild offense that Tech didn't take the time to correct how he messed up Jaskier's hair. It's not all that messed up, of course, but it's the principle of the thing! Jaskier takes a moment to run his own fingers through his hair to be certain Tech didn't leave it sticking up. If Tech thought Jaskier was vain in Penance, he was about to find that vanity outmatched with Jaskier as he is now. The Jaskier he knew had decades of a reputation preceding him wherever he went. At that point in his life and career, people dressed up to impress him, not the other way around.]

[Now? Jaskier has so much to prove. And that much is likely apparent upon any closer inspection of his sartorial choices. Jaskier dresses well, of course, but it's plain to see he's doing so on a very limited budget. He doesn't possess a single piece of jewelry and the embroidery on all his clothes is far more simple. Never mind there isn't a piece of silk on his body right now, everything coming from hardier fabrics than that because the aforementioned budget forces such sensibility in his decisions.]

[So, that also means making certain his hair is coiffed just so at all times, too.]

[Even while perplexed with the sudden self-inspection, Jaskier comes so close to saying the sun has already risen with his smile, but Jaskier ultimately refrains from it. It seems a bit...too much to say after everything Tech's told him even if Jaskier doesn't mean anything more than it's nice to see him smiling again. Perhaps especially because he doesn't mean for it to mean anything further than that. But even if it doesn't end up stinging to hear for those reasons, he also worries Tech might think Jaskier's taking the piss out of him, too. Jaskier doesn't know what to do with Tech's grief exactly, but he knows better than to say or do something that would make it sound like he's making light of it or Tech.]

Well then, neither can I, [he says instead.] But the sun will get its turn. Let's not be so anxious to get to that part, shall we? I think they might get jealous.

[He nods up towards the starry sky to indicate who might get jealous before looking properly skyward. Tilting his head, he doesn't recognize any constellations. Which if he really needed any more evidence that this wasn't all some sort of strange dream, that was perhaps telling enough that he was somewhere far away from home. But not seeing anything familiar doesn't fill Jaskier with any sort of anxiety or dread. If anything, he finds a bit of freedom in it. It's something new. To him. To Tech. To them. Jaskier nudges Tech in the side before leaning against him to aid with pointing out the right stars.]

See those three there that make a line? Then the four that branch off near the middle almost like wings? [He lowers his arm, but doesn't pull away.] Kinda looks like what sirens are supposed to look like, doesn't it?

[Jaskier hasn't seen a siren for himself yet and with how many holes Geralt has been quick to poke in all his other assumptions about other kinds of monsters so far, he's not all that confident he has the truth of it. But he's heard plenty of stories from sailors at port of beautiful women singing their enchanting songs only to rise out of the sea upon their wings and whipping about their serpentine tails with horrifying shrieks that he trusts the idea that's what they look like a little more than some other descriptions of other monsters. Still, he couches it a bit in case he's wrong.]

[ The warmth of Jaskier's body against his startles the smile away and he quickly turns his head to look at what's being pointed out. It's hard to see what Jaskier sees and maybe because it's hard to focus on anything other than the casual way Jaskier sits so close. It's familiar. But also not. His Jaskier would have used his lap as a foot rest or dropped his chin to his shoulder or casually rested his hand against the small of his back at the very least. But Tech also knows better than to make it more than it is -- for that very reason. He can't help but draw a comparison. Any moves he would make would be out of escapism -- a desperation to not feel so lonely. And that's something that might stem from the nature of this maze, but also something that comes from within Tech. Loneliness and doing everything he could to run from that.

But Jaskier doesn't deserve the worst of him. Tech would use and pull strings in most other situations with most other people. But he couldn't bring himself to do that to Jaskier. Never Jaskier.

Hands remain on his lap and he tries to bring focus to the constellation. Sure, he can always recognize patterns, but honestly he couldn't understand where people had the imagination enough to connect the dots and make something more than a few vague shapes. He can't make out what Jaskier describes, and doesn't even try. Instead he looks back to him with a raised brow. ]

Sirens have wings? I thought they were basically mermaids and the terms are pretty interchangeable. But like, don't quote me. Obviously you're the one from the world with mystical creatures.

[ His tries drawing both knees up, but with the rounded edge of the tree trunk it becomes difficult to balance. So instead he just brings one to his chest and leaves the other planted on the ground for balance, hugging the knee closest to him. ]

You ever see a unicorn?

[ Unicorns are pretty basic in terms of mythical creatures. Tech is aware of that. They're just horses with horns. But there's something pretty magical about the symbolism of them. And basic or not, Tech had never seen them. He'd seen and even ridden on the opposite with the hell horses. So it would be kinda nice to hear about their counter -- something good. Something light. Something pure. ]

That's what the sailors say, [Jaskier says with a light shrug when it comes to the question of the sirens.] That's how you're supposed to be able to tell them apart from their more docile cousins of merfolk. But sirens are clever and will wait in the water as though they were just mermaids that had grown curious about life on the surface or that shape passing overhead. Without their wings, there isn't really a way to tell them apart, so she need only conceal them beneath the water. A foolish man will steer his ship towards her then in his excitement to see such a rare creature, and when he gets just close enough—

[Jaskier sits upright suddenly and loudly claps his hands to signal the trap being sprung upon this hypothetical, wayward sailor.]

Down to the briny deep he goes...

[He raises his eyebrows a little in an ooh spooky sort of manner before a gigantic grin breaks out over his face and he settles back against Tech now that the other's similarly settled back down with his repositioning. He starts to look to the sky again to find another constellation to make up.]

But it could very well all be bullshit and just a way of trying to con a bit of coin from others while they're at port. After all, it makes for a much more pitiable situation that your finger was taken by such a creature than the truth being you were a bit drunk while performing your duties aboard your ship.

So, you really shouldn't take my word for any of it.

[There hasn't been decades of following Geralt just yet for him to possess any sort of genuine knowledge and he knows better now than to claim otherwise. A bit of rare maturity on his part, but given everything that happened to him earlier today, Jaskier knows he'd have to be a fool to claim otherwise. At least with Tech. Others? Well, he might be willing to sell a little bit more of a lie. But Tech knows him in the future. He'd know if Jaskier was full of shit better than Jaskier would at this point.]

[He directs his attention away from the sky back to Tech when he asks about unicorns without sitting up.]

Oh no, [he says with a laugh, not at the question so much as the idea that a unicorn would ever trot along his way.] They are said to be exceptionally rare, but I am flattered you believe me to be so pure of heart that you think it was a possibility.

[Jaskier gives him a wink before looking back up at the sky. It would seem even at his age, Jaskier is keeping the stereotypes about the proclivities of bards alive and well. Just unlike most times it was ever brought up in conversation, Jaskier leans into the joke rather than playfully huffing about what unfair assumptions are being made about him.]

[ Telling that sort of spooky story over the camp fire is fitting, except it just sounds like every generic tale about mermaids or sirens. Tech's heard it a dozen times before. Blahblah, sailors go out to sea. Blahblahblah, beautiful creature drags them to their untimely demise. Tech awards Jaskier a roll of his eyes, but still some faint amusement on his face -- for no reason other than Jaskier's exuberance when telling the tale was endearing in its own way. The ending especially so when Jaskier confesses the sailors could be bullshitting.

Tech would be tempted to say they were. But Jaskier's world is different. Creatures of all kinds seem to make it a home because the humans there have yet to eradicate them. Give it a millennia or so. Then the creature features in Jaskier's songs truly would be nothing more than folk songs thought to be fantastical. Things of legends.

His gaze returns to Jaskier after his laugh and while Jaskier makes the joke about purity, Tech continues to stare at him even after Jaskier's gaze has returned to the sky. ]

Aren't you?

[ It's not asked with a single trace of teasing. The question is as genuine as they come. ]

You're the most kindhearted and genuine person I'd ever met. I don't think there's anyone whose love is as pure as yours. Why wouldn't you be worthy of seeing one?

[Jaskier's gaze is quickly pulled back to Tech at the sincerity of his question. His expression is one of confusion at first because Jaskier thinks Tech is making quite a false assumption about him. Even if he is much younger than Tech knew him to be, Jaskier would hope he understood and knew Jaskier better than to assume— Oh, but he's not assuming that at all. Tech elaborates and although Jaskier's expression hardly changes, he does start turning a lovely shade of pink.]

Oh, [he says stupidly.] Well. I, ah...

[Gods, there's no hiding his blushing now. Not when they're sitting this closely and Tech is looking at him this intently. Jaskier sits up better, but it's already too little too late. The pink in his cheeks is beginning to morph into a red as his face feels even hotter and Jaskier quickly and desperately finds anywhere to look than over at Tech.]

Thank you. [No. No, no. That was stupid. Jaskier winces, pursing his lips as he privately chastises himself. Just take a breath.] I mean, that is very sweet of you to say, but that's not exactly what unicorns are preoccupied with according to the stories. [Okay, good. He seems to have figured out how to speak again. That's progress. Jaskier chances finally returning his gaze to Tech.] And besides, it's young maidens they are said to adore. So, I think there's very little chance that a unicorn would ever confuse me as someone they might reveal themselves as there's never been a time in my life I could claim to be a young, virginal maiden.

[Jaskier looks away again quietly wishing that the ground would actually open up and swallow him whole. That would be preferable to having to carry on with the shared knowledge that any of what he just said came out of his mouth in conversation to someone complimenting him like that. Jaskier lightly folds his arms in a gesture of self-soothing before he decides he's just going to look at the sky. Finding constellations was a better use of his time than trying to dig himself out of this hole he's found himself in.]

[ Fortunately this isn't the first time he'd seen Jaskier blush, but it absolutely is surprising. Tech has no idea how Jaskier might have reacted if he said those same things to him after months of a relationship, but he's certain he wouldn't have blushed. It's a reminder that this is a different era of Jaskier -- an era before he had fans regularly approaching him. An era before he learned how to hide his feelings inside in favor of appearing gracious or acceptable or whatever other reason. An era before he had the chance to hear those things from the lips of many others to a point where they're rendered meaningless. It's fascinating to see Jaskier at a level of emotional maturity Tech is more accustomed to -- something akin to his own reactions.

Like the last time Tech saw Jaskier blush, though, he doesn't call him out on it. In fact, he turns his head away to look at the fire to award him some modesty and maybe even pretend he hadn't seen. Because much like that intimate moment, teasing doesn't feel right. He doesn't know this Jaskier very well, even if there's this strange sense that he does. What if he offends him? ]

Their loss then.

[ He says after a time and lets his words hang there for a significant beat. Because to Tech, meeting Jaskier had been life changing. It pulled him out of the ever lingering darkness. It brought light into his life that had never been there before and restored some of his faith in humanity. Even now, with things not as they should be or how Tech wishes they were, he's still sitting here with Jaskier -- still talking to him. His belief in Jaskier still remains in tact. ]

If a unicorn wouldn't deem you worthy, then it's the opposite. The unicorn isn't worthy of seeing a Jaskier.

[ Tech pushes off of the tree so he can move away from Jaskier, to give him space to be flustered or flattered or however he wishes to take it without drawing attention to his reaction. Instead, he quietly feeds the fire with a few more sticks before rubbing his hands together in front of it -- pretending to be more cold than he is just for the sake of visually justifying why he moved away. Like it was more for his own sake and less for Jaskier's benefit. ]

[There's a puff of laughter following that comment, the sound quiet and shy as Jaskier still ducks his head even with Tech moving away from him. Part of him says that he ought to be sensible. Tech isn't talking about him as he is now sitting on this fallen tree. But can he truly be faulted for it? Is it really a mark of weakness that such kindness and adoration still cause a momentary flutter of his heart even if it's not meant for him? It's not as though Jaskier's lost sight of that fact, that the compliments don't really belong to him. Tech likely hasn't forgotten either. So, what's the harm in it really? There isn't any.]

[Is there?]

[No, there isn't. There isn't.]

[Besides, Jaskier's entitled to his own feelings. It's true that just because Jaskier in the future was madly in love with him enough to make those sorts of promises doesn't mean that Jaskier now feels the same way or will. But it also doesn't mean Jaskier can't find his own affection or appreciation for Tech on his own.]

[Still, Jaskier hesitates for a moment. He needs to work up the courage before he moistens his lips and says,]

Then how fortunate are you that you've seen one twice? Most certainly can't say that.

[The part of Jaskier that wants him to be sensible wishes to somewhat curl up and die as soon as the words leave his mouth. Is it too much? It occurred to him before he said it that it might be, but now that the words are out there, it certainly feels like it. But Jaskier can't take it back. Even if he were to try and backpedal, throw in something intentionally (or unintentionally) clumsy or something that might make the words feel a little less than they were, Jaskier doesn't think he could do it convincingly. Tech would know the intention all the same.]

[So, appearing as calm as he can with his fading blush, Jaskier just braces himself for the response and that very real potential of grief or a bout of admonishment all over again. At least it would be a touch earned this time, he supposes.]

[ Fortunate, he says. And Tech's not sure that's the word he would necessarily use. But it is something akin to it, isn't it? Because even if they have to start all over again with getting to know one another, they did find each other in an entirely different world. Jaskier didn't think he was mad when he explained their connection. And here they are once again, forging a different sort of connection.

Tech is sad to have lost what he had, but even if he didn't feel like it at first, there is still some kind of hope, right? Hope that if Tech ever does make it to Jaskier's world and has to meet him again for a third time (forth if the mares stuff could be counted), it wouldn't go immediately terrible. He will have gotten plenty of practice in by that point and have more than enough stories to share of their meeting and remeeting and meeting again -- plenty of fuel to bait Jaskier's interest.

So he glances over his shoulder and offers a faint smile. It's a touch solemn, but still earnest. ]

I guess I am.

[ He's about to say something else and pulls in the breath to do so, only to falter and return his gaze to the fire. It crackles and pops, a few ashy sparks flitting up and burning out around him. His hands plant on his knees and he pushes himself up to stand. ]

That's why...

[ His voice trails off, trying to find some certainty. Should he say this? He doesn't want to give Jaskier false hope. But if he could do it in hell, then certainly he could do it here as well. He'd find a way. Tech turns on his heel to face Jaskier again. ]

That's why I'm gonna get your lute back for you here, too. Because that makes a better story for you to tell.

[The first time Tech made that promise in Penance, Jaskier had balked at it. There'd been an immediate pushback that something like that wasn't necessary because it seemed like far too much risk for something as simple as a silly old lute. A silly old lute that held many memories and so much importance to Jaskier individually, but a silly old lute nonetheless. But this time when Tech makes the promise, there's a bit of a pause before a smile blossoms on Jaskier's face.]

It does sound a bit like one of those old stories about the gods, doesn't it? [He's teasing a little, of course, but not much. Jaskier recognizes the promise as a genuine and serious one and he would never genuinely make light of it. But it's a bigger promise than Jaskier knows he can possibly understand right now and he doesn't really know how to cope with it any further than to at least tease lightly even in his gratitude.] A god so enamored by the talent of a mortal that he's willing to go to the very ends of the world for a gift worthy of it. Although I imagine it will have been much more impressive the first time around. Being in Hell and all.

[Jaskier's gaze turns distant for just a moment as he looks past Tech into the dark of the rest of the maze ahead of them and he tries to imagine it. It must have been terrible for Jaskier to be without his lute. Oh, he certainly would have made due and found ways of still composing songs because it's simply what he does. Music is in some ways part of his very essence much in the way that sleeping, eating, and breathing are. But it wouldn't have been the same without his lute. Jaskier would have felt lost without it. And Tech made sure it made its way back into his hands all the same. Whatever risks were involved, whatever he had to sacrifice, he did what it took to get that silly old lute back in Jaskier's hands. He lifts his gaze back to Tech wondering, did he already love Jaskier then? Was that his first grand gesture of love to bring that which brings Jaskier more fulfillment and joy in life than anything else? Or was it nothing all that special at the time? It could have just well seemed a small thing to him without knowing how much it would mean.]

[Unfolding his arms, Jaskier nods to the spot next to him as a way of inviting Tech to sit back down beside him. Whether he does or not, Jaskier keeps his eyes on Tech.]

There's probably no point in telling you that you don't owe me anything, is there? Because that's not what this is about.

[It's not debt. It's not an obligation.]

[It's love. Pure and simple.]

[And that's what makes the promise feel bigger than Jaskier thinks he can fully understand. Just like the words earlier aren't for him, this promise really shouldn't be his either. He's half-tempted to reach out for Tech's hand, but he doesn't in the end. He keeps them folded neatly in his lap instead.]

Just don't do anything stupid for it, yeah? I'll be very cross with you otherwise. So cross, in fact, I'll hold a grudge. And I'm quite infamous for my ability to hold a grudge, you know. I'm sure that's not something I ever mentioned or demonstrated to you as I will admit, it's one of my uglier qualities.

[He winks at Tech as though he's just let him in on a very well-guarded secret even though Jaskier knows it absolutely is not. Jaskier's always been petty enough to hold a grudge against whomever for whatever perceived slight he's experienced. Tech absolutely would have been witness to it at some point or another.]

If you can get it with little trouble, that's fine. But, [he says, holding up a finger and pausing for a moment for dramatic effect.] Nothing stupid. Nothing dangerous. I can always find another lute, but I don't believe I'm about to find another Tech. They're certainly rarer than any silly old Jaskier.

[ At Jaskier's nod, Tech slowly makes his way back over and resettles beside him. Not as close as they were before because it's a little much to sit right against Jaskier with so much space on the log. But close enough to feel intimate, which he starts to wonder if he should have put more space between them. A companionable distance. Maybe that's more comfortable. He doesn't know. He doesn't know what he should be doing, what he shouldn't be doing. Maybe offering to get the lute out loud was a bad call because even Tech's not too sure of his reasoning. On the surface, he'd claim it's because Jaskier needed to create music. And Tech wants him to be doing what came naturally, sharing what made him so lovable, creating and never ever stagnating.

But there's no real reason Tech specifically has to be the one to get it. Like Jaskier says, he could find another lute. Which is perhaps another sign Jaskier is different -- he hasn't had the years with the lute, hasn't fallen in love with her and written countless songs in his love, joy, grief and despair. It's easy enough for him to play on another lute because he lacks the history with this one. But it becomes important to him back home and so it should be important to him here as well. Gifted from a god who comes from a history of loving the man he will become, a symbol of that love -- to be cherished and protected in some way. This version of Jaskier might never love Tech, but he would love the lute. ]

A god isn't easily hurt or killed. So long as someone still believes in them.

[ He looks at Jaskier for a moment and then averts his gaze uncertainly. ]

So if you believe in me, nothing's dangerous. Or stupid. And just hearing your music makes a lot of things worth it.

[ Tech swings one foot forward, kicking aside a few leaves before his fingers fold together and rest on his lap. ]

But I promise. Nothing risky. Even if I think you're highly overselling the Tech thing. You didn't even know one existed until maybe an hour ago? You can easily live an entire life without ever missing it.

[ He tries to keep it as a joke. Just some playful banter, but the pain still folds in on the edges of his words. Because Jaskier ultimately will live a whole life never recalling meeting him. Nothing Tech does or says will impact an eighteen year old Jaskier in his homeworld. It's not like all of these diverging timelines will suddenly unify. All they have are the moments this place gives them and Tech's unfortunately unfaltering memory. ]

[There was likely going to be a bit of quiet from Jaskier. Not to say that Jaskier lacks confidence in his own merit as both musician and composer, but he's quite used to receiving the opposite commentary. Most tend to complain and make whatever unkind comparison to some noise they dislike long before they ever pay Jaskier any sort of compliment. And some of that is perhaps by his own design, he supposes. There had been a couple of nights with an empty belly before Jaskier realized that if he was to get a hot meal, it would not be as a reward for his talents. Most of the people he's performing for have no use for music, after all. So, in seeing no value to it, there is no need for them to provide him with something to eat or drink after he put everything he could into a performance for them. Thus, Jaskier resorted to tunes that were less enjoyable if not at times outright insulting to not go hungry again. It's really only with the prospect of Geralt that Jaskier thinks perhaps he can finally play as he's always meant to now that there's much less risk of going hungry for his efforts.]

[But before he can dwell too much in the compliment that both at once feels validating as hell and unearned, Tech attempts a joke that lands completely flat for him. Jaskier's softer expression falls to a pinched one. It's not like some of the things Tech said earlier that were meant to push Jaskier away by trying to convince him that it was a bad idea to pursue any sort of relationship with Tech. Jaskier can recognize that. But it edges closer to some of those softer remarks that came after wherein Tech was almost suggesting he be akin to a spirit in Jaskier's life and his presence is there but hardly felt. So, Jaskier decides in the end, he can't entirely let the comment slide or allow it to sit as a joke. He shakes his head.]

That sounds like a pile of horseshit, Tech. [Unfolding his hands from his lap, Jaskier leverages himself enough that he can more comfortably turn to face Tech without dragging on the rough bark beneath him. The knee closest to Tech bumps gently into his leg in the process, but Jaskier doesn't particularly care and doesn't slink back into his own space.] It's true that I could go my entire life without having met you just as you've clearly gone through several without me. But think about it, Tech. It's obvious just by looking at us that we come from completely different worlds. And granted, I don't know how often it is that other worlds come into contact with yours, but the last time that happened in my world was nearly two thousand years.

And yet, here we are. In another world between worlds. [Jaskier reaches over, placing his hand over Tech's folded ones.] Together.

[He gives Tech's hands a light squeeze.]

Now, whether you believe in Destiny or not, I don't think that really matters. We've still managed to do something that's only happened once in two thousand years by my world's standard even if it's been a bit imperfect and not entirely what was intended. [Or wanted. But Jaskier leaves that bit out. Tech hasn't made that many overt comparisons, and certainly hasn't made any since he revealed that it wasn't his first time meeting Jaskier.] So, forgive me, but I simply don't think not knowing you is all that much of an option at this point. And I'm happy that it's not for admittedly selfish reasons, but happy nonetheless.

[Jaskier doesn't bother outlining his selfish reasons. He trusts Tech is smart enough and knows Jaskier well enough that he doesn't need it to be spelled out to him. Jaskier's never been one to do well on his own. He thrives in the company of others and it hardly matters if it's only one person. And Jaskier can't imagine that he's changed so much in the intervening years that the thought of having someone who adores him so would appeal to him any less. Tech must know that even as Jaskier is somewhat fumbling his way through the unwarranted affection, trying so hard not to take more than he ought to have a claim to, he loves the attention. Craves it.]

And that right there—being happy just by virtue of having met you—is the exact reason why it will always have been a tragedy for me to not know you. No one else in all the Continent, this world, the other, or yours could do something like that for me.

[The look Jaskier gives Tech in the few moments after that is meaningful. He doesn't want Tech to think he's talking nonsense whether it's false niceties or trying to speak on something he doesn't fully know or understand. It's much like Geralt, Jaskier thinks. Someone who has gone so long without another at their side that they don't know how exactly to accept that someone might find value in that place. Except with Geralt, Jaskier had a firmer excuse for being there than I'm supposed to be. He made a promise to try and help Geralt's reputation and that's what he needed to do. Here there are no such promises to be kept because... Well, even if there are lingering promises, Jaskier's not exactly the one who they were made with. But Jaskier is still choosing to be here much like Tech is. And that counts for something.]

[Jaskier lifts his hand away from Tech's hands to pinch his cheek roughly and shake him a bit. Any swatting at his hand will cause Jaskier to let go, but does nothing to stop his smile or laughter.]

So! No more of that talk. Because I won't entertain anything to the contrary of what I've just said! Understand me, old man?

[ When Jaskier starts to speak, Tech looks at him in moderate surprise. Yeah, maybe it wasn't a very funny joke, but he didn't expect Jaskier to argue it. Maybe pull a disapproving frown and move on. But instead he lingers. He draws near. His knee bumps Tech's and remains there. Tech immediately fixates on it -- Jaskier's warmth searing his skin. It's difficult enough to focus on Jaskier's words as it is, but when his hand warmly covers Tech's, his heart beats in his throat. Tech swallows and tries not to make any sudden moves, whether to flinch away or turn his hand under Jaskier's to capture his fingers.

His eyes flicker up to meet Jaskier's again. And fuck it all. Here he is again in a position where he should be keeping his distance -- both for Jaskier's sake and his own. Tech's heart has already been shattered and Jaskier's is vulnerable. This is a door that should truly stay closed at least for some time...until the both of them knew what they were getting into. But it's too late. It was too late when they ran into each other and it's too late now. Everything feels like it's spiraling out of control and he scrambles to find some purchase. Does he scoot back? Does he lean in?

Jaskier emphasizes together and Tech is completely sold. Yes, yes. They've found each other twice in two different worlds. They were magnetized to one another. Destiny might have had a little nudge, but everything else is them. This is them. Being from two different worlds, virtually having nothing in common and yet finding this common ground. Finding warmth and comfort in one another, no matter how the world around them fell apart. Jaskier doesn't know him, but he's staying. He's happy. And in the moment, while staring into his eyes...it's enough. It's enough for Tech to forget he's not someone worthy of Jaskier's happiness and adoration and maybe even love.

When Jaskier's hand uncovers his and rises, Tech expects it to cup his cheek. He expects the other hand to settle against his chest. And he inches ever slightly closer as though their lips are going to meet. But instead, Jaskier pinches his cheek to tease him and the spell is broken. Reality settles in the pit of his stomach. Fuck. What an idiot he is. And how fortunate he was Jaskier was there to save him from his idiocy.

He balks and wags a shooing hand at Jaskier's to usher it away, nursing his cheek with a sullen look. ]

Old man. Seriously? Fucking rude.

[ He huffs and uses that opportunity to turn his head to the side like a sulking child. Hopefully it spares Jaskier from realizing what almost happened only a few moments ago. He's not sure what to say to any of what Jaskier said, so for a short window, he doesn't say anything at all. And when he finally does, it's with a seemingly different topic altogether. ]

There's a god in stories I've encountered known as Orpheus. He was said to have been able to play such enchanting music on his lyre no monster or beast could resist his melodies. He could even drown out the sirens with his beautiful music and keep men safe on their journeys across the sea. One day, he was playing in the woods when he encountered his would-be wife Eurydice. And I imagine they spent hours, Orpheus playing for her while she listened to his music. The story glosses over the bit where they fell in love, treating it like only a few sentences that lead to marriage. But it's easy to imagine it over a cozy fire in a frosty woods.

[ Tech's hands brace themselves on the trunk and he looks toward the fire quietly. ]

Their love ends in tragedy. Eurydice gets bitten by a snake and dies. And Orpheus, wrought with grief, travels all the way to hell to bring her back to him. He plays his music for the devil and the devil agrees to let him bring her back so long as the entire time they are escaping the underworld, he doesn't look back. If he looks back at her, she will be doomed to eternal damnation. So he agrees and does well for most of the journey, even though it concerns him he can't hear her behind him. They get to the exit, and...

[ He trails off there. Tech knows the ending of their story. The first rays of light touch Orpheus's face and he turns back to embrace his wife, only to realize because she was a few steps behind him...he has damned her. He tries to reenter hades and is barred entrance, for a living soul can only enter the underworld once. But Tech doesn't finish because it should be clear the parallels he's drawing between him and Jaskier and this story -- both of them sharing the role of Orpheus and Eurydice at various points. Don't look back. But could Tech stop himself? And by looking back, would he never see what was in front of him? Would he lose something forever? ]

I...I don't remember how it ends.

[ He lies, and it's quite obvious he's lying because Tech doesn't want to tack on such a depressing ending to this thing. ]

[Jaskier doesn't believe Tech, of course, when he says he doesn't remember how it ends. As someone whose job it is to tell story after story, Jaskier knows which are the bits that are remembered and which are forgotten. The beginning is usually pretty easy to remember if only because the exposition is what captures the audience's attention and gives them a reason to care. It's the middle that's usually a bit muddled and even Jaskier's been guilty of occasionally making something up when the details have managed to escape him. But the ending? Oh, that's the bit that sticks with everyone. It's the last thing the audience shares with the characters and their plights, and it's where their deepest feelings and self-reflections are sparked.]

[So, he doesn't believe Tech when he says he can't remember how it ends. Of course, he remembers. It's just not an ending he wants to tell. It's not the ending that he wants for him and Jaskier.]

[Because Jaskier isn't an idiot. Setting aside that stories are his trade and that he's always held such a passion for them even as a boy, he isn't thick. He knows Tech is telling this story because he sees them in it. It's the reason why anyone tells any story at the end of the day. There's something in those stories that they feel connection and meaning.]

Well, that's the beauty of stories, you know. If you can't remember how it goes, you're the storyteller. You end it the way you want it to end. [Jaskier nudges him with his knee intentionally this time as he tips his head in genuine curiosity.] So, go on, darling. How does your story end?

[Not the story. Jaskier isn't interested in how the story's been told countless times by equally countless tellers. Not our story. Jaskier doesn't think it's really his to claim just yet when he's only just entered into it and is still doing his best to find his bearings. Your story. A story told by a god— No, a man who says he's never had the choice of it all before, and that's all he's ever yearned for in all his lifetimes. A chance to live by his own choosing. And so, perhaps he's not there just yet as far as living it. But this is something, Jaskier thinks.]

[It's a beginning.]

[ His eyes linger on the knee that's nudged him and to Jaskier's question, Tech's tempted to shrug. To claim he doesn't know and leave it at that. A dissatisfying ending for a story that hasn't finished yet -- that he can't clearly see. There's no way to predict anything when it comes to them. And yes, he knows Jaskier's not asking for their story. For one, because he's the co-author of that. And for two, their story had only just begun from his perspective...so it's not really ready for any sort of ending. But after drawing the comparison between Orpheus and Eurydice and them, how does he finish the story without tying them into it?

Still Tech knows what awaits him if he doesn't give an answer. Jaskier's ribbing commentary about Tech being a terrible storyteller. And he is in a way. Tech's not the one who comes up with stories. All the stories he knows are ones written by other people. And Tech's the one that repeats them, that spreads them in their digital form and lets them live on in the digital age -- only a click away. Some of the old gods truly should thank him for allowing their myths to remain only a late night google away.

Tech leaves Jaskier hanging a little while longer, picking at a piece of upraised bark as he tries to think of a suitable end. And then, he finally says: ]

They get to see the sunrise together. And they live happily ever after.

[ It's a very childish and simple ending. The sort that would be tacked onto whimsical fairy tales that were made more palatable for younger children. The ending where the good guys always win, the bad guys always get their comeuppance, and there's nothing more noteworthy to say about their lives other than they were happy thereafter. But in Tech's idealized fantasy, in his story -- it's always been a private hope kept beneath a pessimistic veneer that one day he'd find happiness.

Today is not that day. But maybe another. He just hasn't found his way out of hell yet, but maybe someday -- so long as he looked forward and not back. Maybe he'd find it. ]

[Jaskier exhales through his nose in light amusement. He's not really laughing at Tech though. He can recognize there's a certain degree of vulnerability in answering that question, and the fact there's an answer at all is fairly remarkable all on its own. It's not something Jaskier should take for granted at the very least. But there is something sweet in its simplicity.]

All that build-up and I was expecting something a bit more dramatic, [he teases lightly. A thought occurs to him to ask Tech how he thinks he would have ended it if he were here to give his perspective, but he doesn't give in to the impulse. It's not particularly fair of him to ask in such a roundabout way what Jaskier had envisioned for their future together. It's also really none of his business and something Tech should be afforded all privacy over. Instead, he says,] But I know what you're getting at with that ending. Just as Eurydice trusted Orpheus to lead the way out of that dark, terrible place, Orpheus trusted Eurydice to never stray too far. And it was that powerful bond that saw them through a great number of adventures. Far too many to tell, but also none nearly so important as that first sunrise together. The one that both were quietly afraid they might never see together, but never gave up hope that they might because they loved each other.

And love is far more powerful than anything else in this world or the next.

[Much like the telling of the siren, Jaskier's hardly still while he builds upon the scraps of Tech's proposed ending. It's less childish, of course. The topic demands that he be significantly less so. But he still makes the occasional gesture with his hands, and he leans in when it's appropriate to do as much, all in an effort to keep the attention on him. As if they were seated in a crowded tavern with all sorts of noise and other spectacles for Jaskier to compete with. Except it probably doesn't really require that much effort. Setting aside for a moment that Jaskier doesn't have any competition sans the fire and that hardly puts up much of an obstacle, Jaskier is also more sincere and genuine than most.]

[He's not speaking of them, of course. The spark of interest, that something that shapes itself into a kind of love that Jaskier so often feels when speaking to someone like this? It's not at all what used to (or, from Jaskier's perspective, will) be there between Tech and Jaskier (someday). Jaskier needn't experience the alternative for himself to know there's no comparison. But he is still speaking his mind as always and it's without a doubt that even at his age now, even without all the experiences that two or so decades more will afford him, Jaskier believes so strongly in love above all else.]

[Because it is love through both its presence and absence, its gift and loss, that inspires so much. Both good and bad and everything in-between can somehow find its root within love.]

So, of course they lived happily ever after.

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