I'd take the happy memory route any day. I even have a few to offer myself.
[ it's said with the general air of someone who also has plenty of bad ones. but that's life, isn't it? the back and forth of better and worse days. sam doesn't mind it, but he'd rather have met under just about any other circumstance. even if the crystal and what it turns into are probably worth the stress of it. sam's just tired of prison volunteering and he's not impressed with most of what he's seen ambrose, or the thorne way of doing things.
sam laughs himself at that, imagining geralt in that very scene. though, in a way, sam supposes he's seen it. that the entire time down in the tunnels was, actually, geralt slowly letting himself bleed out all the while trying to take care of everyone else. there's a reason sam pegged geralt early on for the kind of person he was, but he supposes that's probably why jaskier and geralt have known each other for as long as they have.
part of him wishes he had something more to offer, food or wine or water or something. his mother would be so displeased at his hosting manners, but maybe he would have gotten a pass given...well. everything. so as jaskier gets settled, sam does as well, crossing his arms across his chest. listens to what he supposes is going to be an explanation, or a story, both of which he would welcome. ]
Huh. That's actually a good tip. Do they all have white hair too? Or is that just Geralt's thing? [ he hadn't really noticed the gold eyes other than an initial thought when they first met.
the question has sam grinning a bit sheepishly. it feels a bit like he's letting down a friend, or owning up to a lie. ] Beyond the fact that they play instruments and sing at ren faires? Not really, no.
[Jaskier doesn't mirror the gesture; even when he's listening, his fingers drum over his legs, or shift to grip the chair and then move back to his lap. He isn't one to sit still, even though he isn't the least bit nervous. Quite the opposite; he's beginning to see why Geralt wasn't entirely bothered by Sam's presence. It's rather easy to be around.]
One could say that's his own unique... thing.
[The phrase doesn't flow naturally from him, but he understands what Sam's getting at.] It's where I came up with his moniker, the White Wolf. I mean, it may seem rather obvious, but it caught on very well. [He emphasizes this, as if to emphasize the very important work of a bard.
Jaskier purses his lips. He supposes it isn't... entirely Sam's fault.] Hmph. I don't know what that is. I have played at festivals and faires, back in my younger days. [Jaskier's hands move through the air as he explains:] I'm a poet. Highly-educated and skilled at it, thank you. And I'm Geralt's... barker. I told ballads of his exploits across the years. It's the only reason he's made a name for himself. Not that he isn't quite good at what he does, but he couldn't sell an ear of corn to a starving king if he tried.
[Of course he didn't come here to talk about himself, but... he's Jaskier. He takes every opportunity.]
[ sam notices the way jaskier moves - or, more specifically, the way he doesn't stop moving. he's used to noticing those little things, if only because he's used to the people he's around not being willing to open up about what they're really feeling, so he's gotten used to taking other cues. not that jaskier appears to be short on words, but sometimes body language can tell you so much more.
there's no underlying stress or nerves, as far as jaskier's fidgeting goes, so sam doesn't feel too worried about needing to address it, instead letting his curiosity settle. let jaskier go on with his explaining - or, well, he was. until that little fact pops up. sam sits forward, face breaking into that sort of there's no way kind of grin. ]
Did you say White Wolf? Geralt goes by White Wolf? No way. [ he's not talking down all the importances of bards. if anything, sam's fascinated by the concept of an entire profession being so important, but at the same time, it doesn't surprise him all that much.
he's just a bit distracted, shaking his head. ] I've got someone here from my world - we're uh. [ friends. sam smiles a bit to himself, shakes his head. ] Something like coworkers. Geralt actually reminds me a lot about him - especially the whole staring bit. [ sam gestures to his face, where he drops his expression to something harder, more serious, flat. honestly, it's a pretty decent impression of both geralt and bucky, but he'd be the only one to appreciate it. ] He also goes by White Wolf. Or- did. Sort of. Anyway- sorry, that's just funny to me. Keep going.
[ there is a hint of something to jaskier's tone that makes sam think he might have...gotten that wrong. or maybe said something wrong. but he doesn't know where or how so he's just going to tread a little lighter here. ]
That all makes sense. That's called something different where I'm from, but yeah, okay. So you're a poet and a musician? And barker? You've got quite a skillset.
[Of everything he'd just said, that's what Sam took from it all? Well, he can't complain entirely if only because --] Certainly. My favorite moniker I've come up with for him, even if it was one of the firsts. It really stuck fast.
[Ah, it was a joke to him.
Jaskier purses his lips a second time, crossing his arms. This time it's not so much at Sam as it is that someone else is walking around with a name that he came up with. (No, it's not the most imaginative thing, but he still feels a bit possessive over it.)
Despite himself, the expression does make him snort.] Gods, you've really gotten that down, haven't you?
[A coworker is possibly the strangest way to describe someone he's heard. A coworker in what? He shouldn't be the only one interrogated.]
Yes, well, they don't just let any peasant become the most famous bard on the Continent. [That is said without a hint of irony; it's not only something Jaskier believes. It is, in fact, quite true. This place is the first time in a very long time he has gone somewhere without being instantly recognized... or, at least, without his songs being sung around him.] Your... coworker, you said? What is it you do? I'm curious how one earns a moniker like that. Oh. Is it literal? Is he some sort of werewolf?
[The very idea is rather enticing. Ooh. Is Sam a werewolf? That does bring to mind what, exactly, a werewolf would consider work, but... he's not a werewolf expert.] Oh, you mustn't worry if you are, either. Geralt doesn't go around indiscriminately killing any monster he finds, I promise.
[ okay okay let's be fair here - sam is not laughing at jaskier here. more simply, there is a ridiculousness that comes with realizing that they can be from such different worlds and lives and places and somehow still end up with. grumpy, emotionally-constipated men being called white wolf.
so sam just nods along with jaskier's explanation, and breaks into another snort of a laugh when jaskier obviously recognizes the look. it's possibly bucky's is a little different from geralt's, sure, but the hardened brows all start to look the same after a while. though sam would only say as much because he knows the guys. ]
We've been working together for a bit now. Had a similar friend. That kind of thing. [ actually, that's not it at all, and sam feels himself sputter off in the explanation. how does he explain who bucky barnes is to someone who has no concept of the winter soldier? sam feels himself get distracted for a moment, falling down a kind of rabbit hole as thinks more about it, up until jaskier mentions werewolf and sam's eyes go a bit wide. ]
Oh- oh no. It's more- ah. [ sam pauses, rubbing at his chin for a moment or so while he thinks about how he wants to say this. ] It's more of a metaphor. He spent some time with a people who gave him the name because of his- well. I'd say skillset, but I think it has more to do with the fact he was one of the only white men in the whole country, and he's got the whole loner hunter wolf vibe. I don't know. I'd be interested to see if you see it when you meet him.
[ it is, however, at the suggestion that he might be a werewolf that sam barks out another laugh, shaking his head and his hands for emphasis. ] Oh no, no, I am definitely just a normal dude. [ and, alright, maybe normal dude is playing down everything he's done and worked towards being over the last few years, but sam is pretty comfortable with that. you sort of have to be, considering he'd been surrounded by super soldiers, gods, witches, and whatever it is he's supposed to call hulk these days. ] But good to know Geralt has a moral code with his monster killing. I'll keep that in mind if I ever get bit.
[ oh, right, jaskier asked a question. what do you do. that's a first himself, though he supposes he shares that concept with jaskier - the idea that someone doesn't know the avengers. wouldn't have any connection to them, or at least heard stories. whether or not sam's recognized for his work as the falcon- and. well. now captain america is something he's used to. but someone not knowing the avengers? ]
And we're kind of...ah. You know I never had a hard time explaining this before I got brought here? [ sam says it with a kind of grin, a sort of camaraderie in knowing how out of place they all are. he shifts a bit in his chair, resettles. ] I guess we were sort of... [ 'avengers' doesn't really work anymore, does it? ] Protectors, I guess? People with special training and connections and in some cases, abilities, and we would fight big bad guys.
[Any sense of excitement that was growing on his face certainly falls flat as Sam turns down the idea that his friend is a mythical lupine creature. There's still a chance, though! That Sam is one! And he doesn't interrupt for that very reason -- and, certainly, because he's nosy.] Be more interesting if he was a werewolf, honestly.
[If one were to ask Jaskier, he thinks this is all a bit of a dodgy way to describe one's friend, though he does suspect there may be the smallest edge of ideation there. Perhaps Sam has a thing for him? It's only natural. So many are drawn to the, as he says, loner hunter wolf, er... vibe. Vibe?
Unfortunately, it seems Sam is not a mythical lupine creature, either. He gives him a look over, a little suspiciously, anyway. Perhaps one would not divulge that secret so eagerly.
Jaskier snorts.] Yes, well, I've never had to explain what a bard does, either. Perhaps we're similar?
[In that way, at least. He is certainly not a protector. Oh, ho. So far from it. Jaskier recrosses his legs, coming to terms with the idea that he has to contort some explanations to fit the mold that is the Continent, already in his mind. The problem of interacting with others across spheres. Fuck. The Conjunction must have simply been a large group of people/monsters who were all hopelessly fucking confused.]
Like knights? Though you'd be hard-pressed to find a knight who's talented or protective. Most of them are in it for the coin. ["Big bad guys." Gods. He's certainly not a bard, if a talent with words was a requirement.] Hmmmm. [He draws out the sound, leaning back until the front two legs of his chair lift from the ground. The chair sways back and forth as his foot bounces.] It doesn't seem "normal" would be a fitting description for people like that, then. So why describe yourself as such? Downplaying one's abilities certain makes one a bit boring.
[Geralt does the exact same. Which, you know. Thus: the bard. Thus why he needed one to upplay his abilities. And successes. And stretch the truth a bit where it was needed.]
[ the way that jaskier's face drops gets another snort out of sam. ] No, you're right, it would be more interesting. [ which is...well it makes sam laugh because the thought is ridiculous. the idea that talking to someone about bucky barnes, super soldier hydra assassin with a metal arm isn't interesting enough because he's not a werewolf. does he even know what werewolves are? god, sam's going to have to tell him about this later.
but there is definitely a kind of fondness to his tone, when they talk about bucky. though it could also be seen as familiarity. he can dunk on him as much as he wants after what that jerk has put him through. so says sam, who would probably do just about anything to protect him, too. but ooh well - those are deeper conversations for another time when alcohol is actually involved (because of course he and jaskier have to get drinks after this.
sam rubs at his jaw for a moment when he thinks about the idea that he could be a knight. he...supposes? ] Well, I'm not in it for the coin, so maybe knight doesn't work? And I thought knights were supposed to be all for, you know, kingdom and glory? [ sam even goes as far as to put a deeper tilt to his voice, mimicking what jaskier would have no clue is a movie trailer announcer voice, but oh well.
sam's face ends up breaking to something of a sheepish grin at jaskier's pointing out of his downplaying. it wasn't even intentional, is the thing, but it's also one of those moments where sam realizes he has to rethink how he describes...just about everything. ] Alright, okay, you have a point. And believe me- I'm pretty badass at what I do. It's not some sort of self-conscious thing. More... [ he tilts his head back and forth, considering. ]
Back home I spent a lot of time working with people with special abilities. Geniuses, wizards, aliens, super soldiers... When I say normal, I meant more like- not that. I was just a soldier, before everything, but you're right, and I for sure don't want to be boring. [ he shakes his head a little, leaning back on his hands where he's sitting on the bed. ]
[Sam has absolutely no idea how much that jest registers with him. Jaskier's eyes open a little wider as he sputters, and then he laughs -- half in horror, half in genuine humor. After watching that fucking half-feral knight Sir Eyck utterly tear apart that poor hirikka (he thinks now, safely away from its rather sharp claws)...
Oh, gods. How the fuck was that nearly a season past? If only he hadn't his throat slit, mayhap he'd have half a barony now.]
Only the shitty, horrible ones. A smart knight, I'm told, gets paid. I trust a man who wants coin over one who wants reputation. The latter always tend to be... [He holds a hand up, leveling it out, moving it back and forth. The intention is certainly to mean, you know the sort, don't you?
He laughs again. Gods, Sam is quite easy to talk to, isn't he? There's no drawing information out of him like sand through a sieve. He offers it -- mostly, though he skirts using exact terms about who, or what, he is. Which is fine. Jaskier can play the long game.]
"Badass." That's a queer term. It doesn't sound exactly complimentary. [But he grins. Clearly he meant it to be, it's only -- it may not roll off well in a ballad. Jaskier picks as his cuticles as he listens, his eyebrows raising a bit. Speaking of ballads... this group certainly has the makings of one from description alone. Wizards and aliens? Super soldiers? Perhaps something like Geralt? Huh.]
It sounds like you mean you're human. Which, look, I understand. Witchers, sorcerers, dragons. Sometimes you simply are the normal human of the company.
[ sam watches jaskier laugh - smiling a bit proudly to himself that the joke landed the way it did. and maybe, just maybe, there is more behind why jaskier finds that so funny but sam is content with the laughter all the same. he shrugs, that smile hanging somewhere between entertained and sheepish. ]
No offense, man, but it sounds like where you're from is one hell of a depressing place. Doesn't anyone want to do good just to do it? Save the world? [ but then sam sighs, because okay, maybe that was harsh and it's not like he's trying to ruin the laughter between them. he's not naive either, he knows what his own world is like, the way that most people exist in it. if it's a numbers game, home isn't any better off than the place jaskier is describing. but still. ] I mean, don't get me wrong, there are definitely more people out there for themselves than just to do good, but you can't even trust knights?
[ the shift in conversation to the words themselves has sam's grin widening, if only because okay, actually, this is kind of fun. he's done this before, you spend enough time around people who were originally born in the 40s and language suddenly because very much becomes a topic of conversation. ]
Badass is just another way to say impressive. Powerful. Cool. You know- [ he gestures towards himself, but the grin remains, making it all the more obvious how much he's kidding around with this. confidence aside, sam isn't the bragging type to that extent. or at least isn't usually, though he can name a few exceptions. still, it's easy to joke with jaskier and to feel like it's okay, that even if there are misteps in their understanding, there is still an ease to it. a comfort in the conversation. sam doesn't realize how long it's been since he's had someone to chat with who is just easy to talk to that he notes the feeling.
so for whatever reason, it doesn't come as a surprise, that jaskier just...hits the nail on the head. that in one go he can put to words what sam hadn't quite made it to, yet. he nods, a hand reaching up to rub at the back of his neck. ] No, you're right, human is what I'm looking for. [ which, okay, maybe a little harsh, but there's something to what jaskier is getting at, which is why sam continues. ] And then on top of that, sometimes, that's what they need the most. Not everyone I work- well. Worked with wanted to be where they ended up, and whether they knew it or not, usually needed the reminder of what it means to just be a normal dude.
[That assessment makes Jaskier laugh with his mouth closed, a sound in the back of his throat that certainly cements that belief.] No. You can't really trust anyone. When you said that, I thought of a certain knight. How I met him and a day later he was laying in the dirt with his throat slit open after he'd tried to take a shit.
[He shrugs. Look, Sam. You sort of hit the nail on the head.
It may say a lot that, even if that was the truth, Jaskier's good humor didn't exactly fail. It was a monstrosity, but men did that sort of thing. Even to knights. And what was a knight, really, beyond a man trying to survive in the world?
There were rare people, like Geralt, who did help others. But he still did it for coin. He needed coin to survive.
Jaskier smiled, recrossing his legs.] I see. You're not quite as humble as I first thought. [Which there was nothing wrong with that. Jaskier was the last man to describe himself as humble. Why bother?
He understands, though, the idea of how it may be bothersome. That. Being human. To someone who, apparently, was trying to... do good. Save the world. He wonders if saving the world came with a hefty amount of coin? Assurances beyond that good will be done? He tips his head, translating the idea to something he would personally understand. Ah. Jaskier nods.] One must suffer reminding blue bloods exactly what it means to be a peasant. [He laughs now, soft.] I suppose that's why it's so hard to believe in that idea of saving the world. There are so many who benefit perfectly the way it is. Being a hero, even for the lowborn, is quite the thankless job, isn't it?
That's one way to go. [ and if what jaskier said wasn't enough to convince sam, the sound of that laugh confirmed pretty much everything he needed to know. he exhales, shaking his head at the story and the message behind it with a kind of practiced sort of acceptance. alright, okay, he gets it.
and maybe it's a little more complicated than sam is making it out to be. because yes, he also needs money. wasn't that his whole issue back home? after everything they'd gone through, everything sam and the other avengers did, and still struggling with money? still trying to find a way to make ends meet? sam understands what jaskier is saying about it all, but it's still depressing as hell. and if given the option, he doesn't think he would have gone back and asked for money either. so what does that make him in jaskier's eyes? a stupid knight?
he appreciates the change of topic, because he doesn't know if he wants to delve into all of that right now. ]
You can be humble and also confident. [ he corrects, softly.
the terminology, the words he's using. low born, peasant. sam laughs a bit to himself at the idea of it all, resettling back on his bed, considering the words. because jaskier has a point, and it rings true in ways that jaskier probably has no idea. ] You're not wrong, but there are also a lot of people who would benefit from a better world. A lot of people who can't make it better for themselves. [ quite a thankless job. there's a moment, there, where sam actually pauses on that, and considers what he means. it feels a bit like he's looking over the last few years of his life - going on the run with steve, the big battle, the blip, coming back, walker. there's a faraway look in sam's eyes then, too, when he thinks about his nephews, about what it felt like when he first put on that new suit bucky had left for him. about new york and karli. after those seconds pass, he does finally blink, pulling himself out of that moment and sitting back up again. ]
Not necessarily, or- not for everyone. [ not for me. but then sam feels himself smile a bit sheepishly, like he can hear how naive he might sound. in front of cameras it's so easy to believe these big words and idealistic beliefs, and yet somehow in this room, with jaskier, it feels a bit. well. feels a bit like he's trying too hard to be steve rogers. ] But it'd also depend on what you want to get out of it, and what kind of thanks you're gunning for. You can still want the better for people without expecting anything back.
[Jaskier isn't quite so sure he agrees, but he much prefers confidence, anyway. One has no time to prattle about with those who don't know their own worth (as if Jaskier has ever turned down time with any sort of interesting company, humble or not.)
At any rate, he's already quite glad he's gambled his time on Sam. Even beyond what Geralt mentioned, he's certainly fascinating to talk to. A pretty face to look at. All those lovely muscles. It's a full package.]
Of course there are. It's simply that many don't give them a second thought. [He tips his head to the side, watching Sam curiously. He has seen many similar looks in others -- men like him. Men who have fought their very literal battles, if he is to believe what Sam tells him. And he does, honestly. There's no benefit to doubting.
He rubs his fingers together and waits with a patience Jaskier rarely exhibits. Clearly something has bothered him, but if he deigns to not mention it, he may as well move on.
Jaskier smiles when he returns.] Not for you. [He needn't say it. Ah. If only Geralt had this sort of optimism. He'd... well, he'd be unrecognizable, but he could do with a little more joy in his life.
Sam sticks so much to his idealism, Jaskier can't help but admit he's almost swayed by it. It's a certain brand of charisma, he imagines -- a brand similar to himself. In a way, Sam, too, is selling himself to an audience.] You know, I never imagined I'd come here to discuss the philosophy of heroics and selflessness, but I can't say I'm disappointed. I would love to be convinced of its merits. When things get worse here.
[Which they will, inevitably. Things are already heating up the longer the prisoners remain in their cages.]
[ it just nearly starts to feel a bit embarrassing, or perhaps more than a bit, but those would fall into jaskier's own merits. that sam can bring up all of this and not feel like he's giving a speech. that he can be sam wilson and talk about helping people and not feel like he's just trying to puff out his chest. steve had always been genuine - which had included his own beliefs. the speeches he gave. the way he knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that people would do the right thing, if given a chance.
sam is just sam, and yet jaskier is here, inspiring philosophical discussions that could have rivaled vision. it's so far out of sam's depth he's not even sure if he should be apologizing or changing the subject, if this is what jaskier had even planned for when he walked in here. it's a bit of a heavy topic, for a casual first conversation, but sam looks over to the other all the same. ]
No, they won't. [ many won't give them a second thought. that hasn't changed. probably won't, ever. ] But that's kind of the point, you know? Many won't, so it's that much more important that a few do.
[ and then sam is grinning, hiding whatever blush or sheepishness that had broken it's way through. he leans forward a bit from where he's sitting, his hand coming to rub at the back of his neck. it's a bit like suddenly becoming aware that you're being recorded, the quick awareness of just about everything - how someone might see you, what it is you sound like. sam has had his moments where it hadn't mattered, where he's gotten carried away and verbally torn through a bunch of senators on live tv - but again, something about this is a little more open. more him, and less cap. ]
Sorry 'bout that. I kind of went off for a second. [ he laughs, easing himself through the intensity of that moment and back into something easier. more casual. he can see how good jaskier is at his own work - if his job is getting stories, he's certainly good at getting sam to open up beyond ways that sam really expected to. he hopes he won't get thee wrong idea of sam from this. he's fine talking, but the gravity of their conversation is usually saved for family. ] Don't jinx us, though. Maybe we can avoid worse until we get the rest of our people out of the dungeon, yeah?
[He's right. It is important. And though Geralt will never say it and Jaskier can only convince others of it through song, he has seen the merits. Geralt is not a hero. Jaskier certainly isn't, either. But he knows, in the aftereffects of Geralt's actions and his songs, that some out there, maybe, could be convinced he was. Though one needn't be a heroic to perform an act of heroics.
This was certainly not what he imagined any potential conversation to turn into. He wonders now how much Geralt has seen of this side of Sam. Perhaps not as much, considering he doubts sitting down and having long conversations was encouraged out on that mountain.]
Oh, don't apologize! That implies there was a mistake. There was none here. [Now, with the ice being broken, so to speak, he doesn't hesitate to lean forward and pat Sam's knee to emphasize his point. No, this was very insightful. It was... enjoyable. For a while, he could forget the situation he was in. He smiles, matching Sam's, though far less bashful. How queer, how genuine he was in his reactions.]
Jinx us, you say? Like a curse? [Because it was spoken about? How interesting. Was Sam the superstitious kind?] I'd hate to do that.
[Our people. Now that is especially interesting.] Is your plan to save them all, then? I'm getting the sense you balk at the idea at leaving anyone behind.
[ it is true, that some may hear songs or tales about geralt and imagine him more of the heroic sort. but was there really a difference between doing good and being a hero, if not for the scale? because as far as sam sees it, they're talking about doing acts of god for others, for going up against unspeakable odds for the safety of more than their own hide. that's the side of geralt that sam saw out in the tunnels, and most likely why he would argue some of what jaskier might say.
but hey - it's only been what, a couple of weeks now? sam's a quick friend, sure, but he's not about to start making arguments about someone's character quite yet. or at least, not right now. ]
I'll take your word for it. I'm not usually one to hero speech on a first date. [ the bashfulness is gone, with those words, very obviously joking by the upturn of his smirk. and then he's just laughing, patting a hand on jaskier's as he shakes his head. he's not entirely certain he can explain what jinxing means after all of that. ] Don't worry about it. It's more a turn of phrase than an actual... just. Yeah- nevermind.
[ and then there's that next question, and sam shrugs, at least feeling more confident in the smaller aspects of this. discussions about the philosophy of heroics aside, leaving someone behind? is a simple answer. ] Good for some, could be better for others, remember? [ and then a more serious look cross his face. nothing intense, necessarily, but determined. sam's definitely already made up his mind on this one. ] I don't trust anyone who is going to arbitrarily put people behind bars, and I know for a fact there are good people down there who shouldn't be. So- no, I don't leave anyone behind. Kind of my thing. [ sam makes a face like he's thinking, then shrugs one shoulder, like he's conceding a point. ] One of my things.
[He winks, the natural companion to his smirk, matching Sam's joking inch for inch. Geralt certainly did fail to give him any interesting details when he'd brought up Sam's name. Luckily, Jaskier has already more than picked up his slack.
He listens with his only movement being his thumb and forefinger, tips rubbing in circles. As he'd imagined would be the case. Even Sam's explanation to him already fit with as he'd guessed.]
As I can certainly tell. [He rubs his hands together, patting his legs before he stands.] Well, Sam, I'd be happy to learn more of your things in time. [He only barely contains another wink at this point, but instead offers him a hand to shake. It seems like... one of his things, too.] I must be getting back, but I want to say... I do have my priorities, of course. But if there are ways for me to help you help them, then I'd be glad to. In time, I hope we can all find our freedoms here.
[ sam laughs, then - an easy and bright kind of sound - in response to jaskier's wink. alright, alright, so jaskier can hang. that's something both refreshing and grounding and sam makes a note to take that into account with his kidding around.
and when jaskier stands, sam follows suit, taking the offered hand for the shake. he doesn't neary feel as uncomfortable as he had just a few minutes ago, and part of him wonders if that's something to do with jaskier. easy to talk to, easy to be around. ]
You and me both, and hey- I appreciate you coming by. I get the feeling we're all going to need to stick together. [ sam flashes him another smile and squeezes jaskier's hand, just once. an emphasis for the words to follow. ] But also know that if you need anything, at all, I'm here. Whatever it is.
[Jaskier grips him back warmly, the handshake easy, casual. Gods, if Jaskier wasn't a flatterer himself, he could see himself easily bowled over by Sam's... well, his whole thing. He smiles easily, but without malice. His words aren't carefully picked, but they come so easily, without pretention or expectance.
He covers Sam's hand with his other, holding in both of his own for a moment, a squeeze to match. Ah. This could be fun -- in another place, it already would be.]
I'm very glad I came. [Tempting as it is to peck his cheek, Jaskier's curling smile is enough for now.] I'll take those words to heart, Sam, and extend the same. In this, we're together.
[It leaves him with some sort of... not optimism, exactly, but a warmth. It's always worth having strong friends, even if not of the political sort.]
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[ it's said with the general air of someone who also has plenty of bad ones. but that's life, isn't it? the back and forth of better and worse days. sam doesn't mind it, but he'd rather have met under just about any other circumstance. even if the crystal and what it turns into are probably worth the stress of it. sam's just tired of prison volunteering and he's not impressed with most of what he's seen ambrose, or the thorne way of doing things.
sam laughs himself at that, imagining geralt in that very scene. though, in a way, sam supposes he's seen it. that the entire time down in the tunnels was, actually, geralt slowly letting himself bleed out all the while trying to take care of everyone else. there's a reason sam pegged geralt early on for the kind of person he was, but he supposes that's probably why jaskier and geralt have known each other for as long as they have.
part of him wishes he had something more to offer, food or wine or water or something. his mother would be so displeased at his hosting manners, but maybe he would have gotten a pass given...well. everything. so as jaskier gets settled, sam does as well, crossing his arms across his chest. listens to what he supposes is going to be an explanation, or a story, both of which he would welcome. ]
Huh. That's actually a good tip. Do they all have white hair too? Or is that just Geralt's thing? [ he hadn't really noticed the gold eyes other than an initial thought when they first met.
the question has sam grinning a bit sheepishly. it feels a bit like he's letting down a friend, or owning up to a lie. ] Beyond the fact that they play instruments and sing at ren faires? Not really, no.
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One could say that's his own unique... thing.
[The phrase doesn't flow naturally from him, but he understands what Sam's getting at.] It's where I came up with his moniker, the White Wolf. I mean, it may seem rather obvious, but it caught on very well. [He emphasizes this, as if to emphasize the very important work of a bard.
Jaskier purses his lips. He supposes it isn't... entirely Sam's fault.] Hmph. I don't know what that is. I have played at festivals and faires, back in my younger days. [Jaskier's hands move through the air as he explains:] I'm a poet. Highly-educated and skilled at it, thank you. And I'm Geralt's... barker. I told ballads of his exploits across the years. It's the only reason he's made a name for himself. Not that he isn't quite good at what he does, but he couldn't sell an ear of corn to a starving king if he tried.
[Of course he didn't come here to talk about himself, but... he's Jaskier. He takes every opportunity.]
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there's no underlying stress or nerves, as far as jaskier's fidgeting goes, so sam doesn't feel too worried about needing to address it, instead letting his curiosity settle. let jaskier go on with his explaining - or, well, he was. until that little fact pops up. sam sits forward, face breaking into that sort of there's no way kind of grin. ]
Did you say White Wolf? Geralt goes by White Wolf? No way. [ he's not talking down all the importances of bards. if anything, sam's fascinated by the concept of an entire profession being so important, but at the same time, it doesn't surprise him all that much.
he's just a bit distracted, shaking his head. ] I've got someone here from my world - we're uh. [ friends. sam smiles a bit to himself, shakes his head. ] Something like coworkers. Geralt actually reminds me a lot about him - especially the whole staring bit. [ sam gestures to his face, where he drops his expression to something harder, more serious, flat. honestly, it's a pretty decent impression of both geralt and bucky, but he'd be the only one to appreciate it. ] He also goes by White Wolf. Or- did. Sort of. Anyway- sorry, that's just funny to me. Keep going.
[ there is a hint of something to jaskier's tone that makes sam think he might have...gotten that wrong. or maybe said something wrong. but he doesn't know where or how so he's just going to tread a little lighter here. ]
That all makes sense. That's called something different where I'm from, but yeah, okay. So you're a poet and a musician? And barker? You've got quite a skillset.
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[Ah, it was a joke to him.
Jaskier purses his lips a second time, crossing his arms. This time it's not so much at Sam as it is that someone else is walking around with a name that he came up with. (No, it's not the most imaginative thing, but he still feels a bit possessive over it.)
Despite himself, the expression does make him snort.] Gods, you've really gotten that down, haven't you?
[A coworker is possibly the strangest way to describe someone he's heard. A coworker in what? He shouldn't be the only one interrogated.]
Yes, well, they don't just let any peasant become the most famous bard on the Continent. [That is said without a hint of irony; it's not only something Jaskier believes. It is, in fact, quite true. This place is the first time in a very long time he has gone somewhere without being instantly recognized... or, at least, without his songs being sung around him.] Your... coworker, you said? What is it you do? I'm curious how one earns a moniker like that. Oh. Is it literal? Is he some sort of werewolf?
[The very idea is rather enticing. Ooh. Is Sam a werewolf? That does bring to mind what, exactly, a werewolf would consider work, but... he's not a werewolf expert.] Oh, you mustn't worry if you are, either. Geralt doesn't go around indiscriminately killing any monster he finds, I promise.
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so sam just nods along with jaskier's explanation, and breaks into another snort of a laugh when jaskier obviously recognizes the look. it's possibly bucky's is a little different from geralt's, sure, but the hardened brows all start to look the same after a while. though sam would only say as much because he knows the guys. ]
We've been working together for a bit now. Had a similar friend. That kind of thing. [ actually, that's not it at all, and sam feels himself sputter off in the explanation. how does he explain who bucky barnes is to someone who has no concept of the winter soldier? sam feels himself get distracted for a moment, falling down a kind of rabbit hole as thinks more about it, up until jaskier mentions werewolf and sam's eyes go a bit wide. ]
Oh- oh no. It's more- ah. [ sam pauses, rubbing at his chin for a moment or so while he thinks about how he wants to say this. ] It's more of a metaphor. He spent some time with a people who gave him the name because of his- well. I'd say skillset, but I think it has more to do with the fact he was one of the only white men in the whole country, and he's got the whole loner hunter wolf vibe. I don't know. I'd be interested to see if you see it when you meet him.
[ it is, however, at the suggestion that he might be a werewolf that sam barks out another laugh, shaking his head and his hands for emphasis. ] Oh no, no, I am definitely just a normal dude. [ and, alright, maybe normal dude is playing down everything he's done and worked towards being over the last few years, but sam is pretty comfortable with that. you sort of have to be, considering he'd been surrounded by super soldiers, gods, witches, and whatever it is he's supposed to call hulk these days. ] But good to know Geralt has a moral code with his monster killing. I'll keep that in mind if I ever get bit.
[ oh, right, jaskier asked a question. what do you do. that's a first himself, though he supposes he shares that concept with jaskier - the idea that someone doesn't know the avengers. wouldn't have any connection to them, or at least heard stories. whether or not sam's recognized for his work as the falcon- and. well. now captain america is something he's used to. but someone not knowing the avengers? ]
And we're kind of...ah. You know I never had a hard time explaining this before I got brought here? [ sam says it with a kind of grin, a sort of camaraderie in knowing how out of place they all are. he shifts a bit in his chair, resettles. ] I guess we were sort of... [ 'avengers' doesn't really work anymore, does it? ] Protectors, I guess? People with special training and connections and in some cases, abilities, and we would fight big bad guys.
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[If one were to ask Jaskier, he thinks this is all a bit of a dodgy way to describe one's friend, though he does suspect there may be the smallest edge of ideation there. Perhaps Sam has a thing for him? It's only natural. So many are drawn to the, as he says, loner hunter wolf, er... vibe. Vibe?
Unfortunately, it seems Sam is not a mythical lupine creature, either. He gives him a look over, a little suspiciously, anyway. Perhaps one would not divulge that secret so eagerly.
Jaskier snorts.] Yes, well, I've never had to explain what a bard does, either. Perhaps we're similar?
[In that way, at least. He is certainly not a protector. Oh, ho. So far from it. Jaskier recrosses his legs, coming to terms with the idea that he has to contort some explanations to fit the mold that is the Continent, already in his mind. The problem of interacting with others across spheres. Fuck. The Conjunction must have simply been a large group of people/monsters who were all hopelessly fucking confused.]
Like knights? Though you'd be hard-pressed to find a knight who's talented or protective. Most of them are in it for the coin. ["Big bad guys." Gods. He's certainly not a bard, if a talent with words was a requirement.] Hmmmm. [He draws out the sound, leaning back until the front two legs of his chair lift from the ground. The chair sways back and forth as his foot bounces.] It doesn't seem "normal" would be a fitting description for people like that, then. So why describe yourself as such? Downplaying one's abilities certain makes one a bit boring.
[Geralt does the exact same. Which, you know. Thus: the bard. Thus why he needed one to upplay his abilities. And successes. And stretch the truth a bit where it was needed.]
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but there is definitely a kind of fondness to his tone, when they talk about bucky. though it could also be seen as familiarity. he can dunk on him as much as he wants after what that jerk has put him through. so says sam, who would probably do just about anything to protect him, too. but ooh well - those are deeper conversations for another time when alcohol is actually involved (because of course he and jaskier have to get drinks after this.
sam rubs at his jaw for a moment when he thinks about the idea that he could be a knight. he...supposes? ] Well, I'm not in it for the coin, so maybe knight doesn't work? And I thought knights were supposed to be all for, you know, kingdom and glory? [ sam even goes as far as to put a deeper tilt to his voice, mimicking what jaskier would have no clue is a movie trailer announcer voice, but oh well.
sam's face ends up breaking to something of a sheepish grin at jaskier's pointing out of his downplaying. it wasn't even intentional, is the thing, but it's also one of those moments where sam realizes he has to rethink how he describes...just about everything. ] Alright, okay, you have a point. And believe me- I'm pretty badass at what I do. It's not some sort of self-conscious thing. More... [ he tilts his head back and forth, considering. ]
Back home I spent a lot of time working with people with special abilities. Geniuses, wizards, aliens, super soldiers... When I say normal, I meant more like- not that. I was just a soldier, before everything, but you're right, and I for sure don't want to be boring. [ he shakes his head a little, leaning back on his hands where he's sitting on the bed. ]
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Oh, gods. How the fuck was that nearly a season past? If only he hadn't his throat slit, mayhap he'd have half a barony now.]
Only the shitty, horrible ones. A smart knight, I'm told, gets paid. I trust a man who wants coin over one who wants reputation. The latter always tend to be... [He holds a hand up, leveling it out, moving it back and forth. The intention is certainly to mean, you know the sort, don't you?
He laughs again. Gods, Sam is quite easy to talk to, isn't he? There's no drawing information out of him like sand through a sieve. He offers it -- mostly, though he skirts using exact terms about who, or what, he is. Which is fine. Jaskier can play the long game.]
"Badass." That's a queer term. It doesn't sound exactly complimentary. [But he grins. Clearly he meant it to be, it's only -- it may not roll off well in a ballad. Jaskier picks as his cuticles as he listens, his eyebrows raising a bit. Speaking of ballads... this group certainly has the makings of one from description alone. Wizards and aliens? Super soldiers? Perhaps something like Geralt? Huh.]
It sounds like you mean you're human. Which, look, I understand. Witchers, sorcerers, dragons. Sometimes you simply are the normal human of the company.
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No offense, man, but it sounds like where you're from is one hell of a depressing place. Doesn't anyone want to do good just to do it? Save the world? [ but then sam sighs, because okay, maybe that was harsh and it's not like he's trying to ruin the laughter between them. he's not naive either, he knows what his own world is like, the way that most people exist in it. if it's a numbers game, home isn't any better off than the place jaskier is describing. but still. ] I mean, don't get me wrong, there are definitely more people out there for themselves than just to do good, but you can't even trust knights?
[ the shift in conversation to the words themselves has sam's grin widening, if only because okay, actually, this is kind of fun. he's done this before, you spend enough time around people who were originally born in the 40s and language suddenly because very much becomes a topic of conversation. ]
Badass is just another way to say impressive. Powerful. Cool. You know- [ he gestures towards himself, but the grin remains, making it all the more obvious how much he's kidding around with this. confidence aside, sam isn't the bragging type to that extent. or at least isn't usually, though he can name a few exceptions. still, it's easy to joke with jaskier and to feel like it's okay, that even if there are misteps in their understanding, there is still an ease to it. a comfort in the conversation. sam doesn't realize how long it's been since he's had someone to chat with who is just easy to talk to that he notes the feeling.
so for whatever reason, it doesn't come as a surprise, that jaskier just...hits the nail on the head. that in one go he can put to words what sam hadn't quite made it to, yet. he nods, a hand reaching up to rub at the back of his neck. ] No, you're right, human is what I'm looking for. [ which, okay, maybe a little harsh, but there's something to what jaskier is getting at, which is why sam continues. ] And then on top of that, sometimes, that's what they need the most. Not everyone I work- well. Worked with wanted to be where they ended up, and whether they knew it or not, usually needed the reminder of what it means to just be a normal dude.
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[He shrugs. Look, Sam. You sort of hit the nail on the head.
It may say a lot that, even if that was the truth, Jaskier's good humor didn't exactly fail. It was a monstrosity, but men did that sort of thing. Even to knights. And what was a knight, really, beyond a man trying to survive in the world?
There were rare people, like Geralt, who did help others. But he still did it for coin. He needed coin to survive.
Jaskier smiled, recrossing his legs.] I see. You're not quite as humble as I first thought. [Which there was nothing wrong with that. Jaskier was the last man to describe himself as humble. Why bother?
He understands, though, the idea of how it may be bothersome. That. Being human. To someone who, apparently, was trying to... do good. Save the world. He wonders if saving the world came with a hefty amount of coin? Assurances beyond that good will be done? He tips his head, translating the idea to something he would personally understand. Ah. Jaskier nods.] One must suffer reminding blue bloods exactly what it means to be a peasant. [He laughs now, soft.] I suppose that's why it's so hard to believe in that idea of saving the world. There are so many who benefit perfectly the way it is. Being a hero, even for the lowborn, is quite the thankless job, isn't it?
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and maybe it's a little more complicated than sam is making it out to be. because yes, he also needs money. wasn't that his whole issue back home? after everything they'd gone through, everything sam and the other avengers did, and still struggling with money? still trying to find a way to make ends meet? sam understands what jaskier is saying about it all, but it's still depressing as hell. and if given the option, he doesn't think he would have gone back and asked for money either. so what does that make him in jaskier's eyes? a stupid knight?
he appreciates the change of topic, because he doesn't know if he wants to delve into all of that right now. ]
You can be humble and also confident. [ he corrects, softly.
the terminology, the words he's using. low born, peasant. sam laughs a bit to himself at the idea of it all, resettling back on his bed, considering the words. because jaskier has a point, and it rings true in ways that jaskier probably has no idea. ] You're not wrong, but there are also a lot of people who would benefit from a better world. A lot of people who can't make it better for themselves. [ quite a thankless job. there's a moment, there, where sam actually pauses on that, and considers what he means. it feels a bit like he's looking over the last few years of his life - going on the run with steve, the big battle, the blip, coming back, walker. there's a faraway look in sam's eyes then, too, when he thinks about his nephews, about what it felt like when he first put on that new suit bucky had left for him. about new york and karli. after those seconds pass, he does finally blink, pulling himself out of that moment and sitting back up again. ]
Not necessarily, or- not for everyone. [ not for me. but then sam feels himself smile a bit sheepishly, like he can hear how naive he might sound. in front of cameras it's so easy to believe these big words and idealistic beliefs, and yet somehow in this room, with jaskier, it feels a bit. well. feels a bit like he's trying too hard to be steve rogers. ] But it'd also depend on what you want to get out of it, and what kind of thanks you're gunning for. You can still want the better for people without expecting anything back.
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At any rate, he's already quite glad he's gambled his time on Sam. Even beyond what Geralt mentioned, he's certainly fascinating to talk to. A pretty face to look at. All those lovely muscles. It's a full package.]
Of course there are. It's simply that many don't give them a second thought. [He tips his head to the side, watching Sam curiously. He has seen many similar looks in others -- men like him. Men who have fought their very literal battles, if he is to believe what Sam tells him. And he does, honestly. There's no benefit to doubting.
He rubs his fingers together and waits with a patience Jaskier rarely exhibits. Clearly something has bothered him, but if he deigns to not mention it, he may as well move on.
Jaskier smiles when he returns.] Not for you. [He needn't say it. Ah. If only Geralt had this sort of optimism. He'd... well, he'd be unrecognizable, but he could do with a little more joy in his life.
Sam sticks so much to his idealism, Jaskier can't help but admit he's almost swayed by it. It's a certain brand of charisma, he imagines -- a brand similar to himself. In a way, Sam, too, is selling himself to an audience.] You know, I never imagined I'd come here to discuss the philosophy of heroics and selflessness, but I can't say I'm disappointed. I would love to be convinced of its merits. When things get worse here.
[Which they will, inevitably. Things are already heating up the longer the prisoners remain in their cages.]
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sam is just sam, and yet jaskier is here, inspiring philosophical discussions that could have rivaled vision. it's so far out of sam's depth he's not even sure if he should be apologizing or changing the subject, if this is what jaskier had even planned for when he walked in here. it's a bit of a heavy topic, for a casual first conversation, but sam looks over to the other all the same. ]
No, they won't. [ many won't give them a second thought. that hasn't changed. probably won't, ever. ] But that's kind of the point, you know? Many won't, so it's that much more important that a few do.
[ and then sam is grinning, hiding whatever blush or sheepishness that had broken it's way through. he leans forward a bit from where he's sitting, his hand coming to rub at the back of his neck. it's a bit like suddenly becoming aware that you're being recorded, the quick awareness of just about everything - how someone might see you, what it is you sound like. sam has had his moments where it hadn't mattered, where he's gotten carried away and verbally torn through a bunch of senators on live tv - but again, something about this is a little more open. more him, and less cap. ]
Sorry 'bout that. I kind of went off for a second. [ he laughs, easing himself through the intensity of that moment and back into something easier. more casual. he can see how good jaskier is at his own work - if his job is getting stories, he's certainly good at getting sam to open up beyond ways that sam really expected to. he hopes he won't get thee wrong idea of sam from this. he's fine talking, but the gravity of their conversation is usually saved for family. ] Don't jinx us, though. Maybe we can avoid worse until we get the rest of our people out of the dungeon, yeah?
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This was certainly not what he imagined any potential conversation to turn into. He wonders now how much Geralt has seen of this side of Sam. Perhaps not as much, considering he doubts sitting down and having long conversations was encouraged out on that mountain.]
Oh, don't apologize! That implies there was a mistake. There was none here. [Now, with the ice being broken, so to speak, he doesn't hesitate to lean forward and pat Sam's knee to emphasize his point. No, this was very insightful. It was... enjoyable. For a while, he could forget the situation he was in. He smiles, matching Sam's, though far less bashful. How queer, how genuine he was in his reactions.]
Jinx us, you say? Like a curse? [Because it was spoken about? How interesting. Was Sam the superstitious kind?] I'd hate to do that.
[Our people. Now that is especially interesting.] Is your plan to save them all, then? I'm getting the sense you balk at the idea at leaving anyone behind.
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but hey - it's only been what, a couple of weeks now? sam's a quick friend, sure, but he's not about to start making arguments about someone's character quite yet. or at least, not right now. ]
I'll take your word for it. I'm not usually one to hero speech on a first date. [ the bashfulness is gone, with those words, very obviously joking by the upturn of his smirk. and then he's just laughing, patting a hand on jaskier's as he shakes his head. he's not entirely certain he can explain what jinxing means after all of that. ] Don't worry about it. It's more a turn of phrase than an actual... just. Yeah- nevermind.
[ and then there's that next question, and sam shrugs, at least feeling more confident in the smaller aspects of this. discussions about the philosophy of heroics aside, leaving someone behind? is a simple answer. ] Good for some, could be better for others, remember? [ and then a more serious look cross his face. nothing intense, necessarily, but determined. sam's definitely already made up his mind on this one. ] I don't trust anyone who is going to arbitrarily put people behind bars, and I know for a fact there are good people down there who shouldn't be. So- no, I don't leave anyone behind. Kind of my thing. [ sam makes a face like he's thinking, then shrugs one shoulder, like he's conceding a point. ] One of my things.
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[He winks, the natural companion to his smirk, matching Sam's joking inch for inch. Geralt certainly did fail to give him any interesting details when he'd brought up Sam's name. Luckily, Jaskier has already more than picked up his slack.
He listens with his only movement being his thumb and forefinger, tips rubbing in circles. As he'd imagined would be the case. Even Sam's explanation to him already fit with as he'd guessed.]
As I can certainly tell. [He rubs his hands together, patting his legs before he stands.] Well, Sam, I'd be happy to learn more of your things in time. [He only barely contains another wink at this point, but instead offers him a hand to shake. It seems like... one of his things, too.] I must be getting back, but I want to say... I do have my priorities, of course. But if there are ways for me to help you help them, then I'd be glad to. In time, I hope we can all find our freedoms here.
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and when jaskier stands, sam follows suit, taking the offered hand for the shake. he doesn't neary feel as uncomfortable as he had just a few minutes ago, and part of him wonders if that's something to do with jaskier. easy to talk to, easy to be around. ]
You and me both, and hey- I appreciate you coming by. I get the feeling we're all going to need to stick together. [ sam flashes him another smile and squeezes jaskier's hand, just once. an emphasis for the words to follow. ] But also know that if you need anything, at all, I'm here. Whatever it is.
wrapping up here!
He covers Sam's hand with his other, holding in both of his own for a moment, a squeeze to match. Ah. This could be fun -- in another place, it already would be.]
I'm very glad I came. [Tempting as it is to peck his cheek, Jaskier's curling smile is enough for now.] I'll take those words to heart, Sam, and extend the same. In this, we're together.
[It leaves him with some sort of... not optimism, exactly, but a warmth. It's always worth having strong friends, even if not of the political sort.]