Actions

Work Header

Rating:
Archive Warning:
Category:
Fandom:
Relationships:
Characters:
Additional Tags:
Language:
English
Stats:
Published:
2024-04-27
Words:
2,942
Chapters:
1/1
Comments:
45
Kudos:
818
Bookmarks:
90
Hits:
5,543

If You Give It a Name, It Makes It Real

Summary:

“Figured the Vipers are already fond of him, so it couldn’t hurt to ask,” Michal says, shrugging. “An’ he’s not ours, we can’t give him a medallion, but a bit of wyvern-hide seems workable.”

“Would you want me to be yours?” Cahir blurts, too boggled to watch his tongue. ...

“Sure,” Eryk says, grinning at him and squeezing his shoulders. “You’re good company, you fight damn well for a human, and you got over being scared of us pretty damn fast. And we like you.”

- excerpt from Ch.15 of "Flung to Catch a Star" by inexplicifics

In which Eryk, Michal and Nolyn were very serious about wanting Cahir to be theirs. Morvran is roped into the shenanigans.

Notes:

I fell face first into love with Cahir and Morvran as they appear in AWAU, then fell face first into love with Eryk, Michal and Nolyn, and this is what ended up happening.

Thank you so much to inexplicifics for crafting such a rich and inspiring world and allowing us to play in their AU, and to Turtlette for beta reading this fic!

(See the end of the work for more notes.)

Work Text:

Ciri has a keen sense for shenanigans – a skill that she’s honed, according to her Papa, and Eskel and Lambert, thanks to all her experience causing mischief and mayhem since she was a toddler. Which is why she knows that Something is about to Happen somewhere when she hears that Eryk had asked Aleksander for his time later in the afternoon. The act itself isn’t too unusual, but what might be is the timing. Spring approaches, which means two things in particular. Firstly, that the newest Witchers will finally set out on the Path, but secondly, that the delegation from Nilfgaard will be travelling home. Which. Ciri admittedly has some complex feelings about.

Cahir is the simpler of the two. Her relationship with him is most similar to the ones she has with the trainees, though she doesn’t see him quite as frequently. But he’s skilled and diligent and, if Ciri is not mistaken, is almost mirroring the way that Uncle Eskel acts with Papa when he is with Morvran. He seems like he has a good head on his shoulders, and is deserving of his position – she knows from her lessons with Jaskier and Milena that isn’t always the case, considering he is the son of Vicovaro’s seneschal. On top of that, it’s no secret that Eryk, Michal and Nolyn consider Cahir the final member of their foursome.

Morvran on the other hand is much more complicated. The fact that he presented himself as a future suitor has always made things odd between them but after receiving his Oath, and after spending an entire winter with him in the keep, Ciri has to admit it hasn’t been bad having him around. He’s proven himself committed to growing into, and learning how to be, a good ruler who cares and protects his people; and he’s finally started to drop his court mask around her. It’s only happened a few times over the past few months – and notably, once after being roped into helping with a new Goose Trick - but it’s enough for Ciri to think that the two of them could be friends, the way that Milena and her court friends are.

Which brings Ciri back to the start – that she is almost certain there are shenanigans afoot involving a trio of young Witchers and two Nilfgaardians. If it were anyone else involved, Ciri would hazard a guess that a diplomatic incident was afoot, but she knows that they are all better than that. So naturally, Ciri ropes Mouse into helping her spy on whatever they’re getting up to. It’ll be good stealth and espionage training.

“Do you have any idea what’s going on?” Aleksander asks Aiden, as they follow Eryk down one of Kaer Morhen’s many hallways. They’re in the section of the keep where classes are usually taught, but Eryk turns toward one of the rooms that Aleksander knows is empty at this time of day. He wasn’t entirely sure what to make of Eryk’s questions regarding nobility and matters of alliance, but he had agreed to come with him to help, ‘arbitrate a matter that those involved are too biased to judge fairly’.

Aiden’s grin is cheerful and openly intrigued. “Not the faintest. What are you up to, little brother?”

“Nothing too scandalous, we promise.” Eryk says with a smile that is equal parts mischief, eagerness and...a touch nervous. Pushing open one of the classroom doors, he gestures for them to enter the room. To Aleksander’s surprise, he’s not they aren’t the only ones there.

Aleksander recognizes Nolyn of the Griffins and Michal of the Bears sitting at one table, while Prince Voorhis and Sir Cahir sit at another. Behind the Nilfgaardians, stands Letho, arm crossed over his massive chest, a certain air of...amusement? Approval? Aleksander isn’t familiar enough with the witcher to really say, but the way that Aiden grins has Aleksander guessing at the former.

Well. Regardless, Aleksander bows politely to Prince Voorhis, and then nods to Cahir. “Your highness, my lord.” He greets them, smiling at the way the two of them return his greeting in a hybrid of proper courtly etiquette and Kaer Morhen hospitality.

“Master Aleksander, Witcher Aiden.” Voorhis says smiling wryly as he gives Aleksander a nod, “I must admit that I hadn’t expected...Well. If you forgive my bluntness, I’m still unsure as to what to expect.” He says, glancing back at Letho.

“He’s our arbiter!” Eryk says cheerfully, waving Aleksander and Aiden over to sit at a desk that faces both groups. As they settle down, Aleksander thinks he sees Aiden’s gaze flicks upwards for a moment. “Well. Aleksander is. Aiden’s just here to watch.”

“You still haven’t explained what is going to be arbitrated.” Cahir says in a tone that Aleksander distinctly recognizes as the one used by someone fondly exasperated at the nonsense of their Witchers. Considering the very logical points of stress when the Nilfgaards originally came to Kaer Morhen, is a sight that is very nice to see.

“Well in that case,” with a theatrical rap of his knuckles on one of the tables, Eryk clears his throat. “I officially call the meeting to determine the honourary joint custody of Cahir Mawr Dyffryn aep Ceallach into session.”

It takes all of Aleksander’s court experience not to openly boggle at that statement. Looking to the Nilfgaardians, Prince Voorhis looks confused but curious, while Cahir looks absolutely poleaxed.

“You were serious about that?” Cahir asks, turning back to look at Letho when the older Witcher snorts.

“Thought you knew by now that Witchers mean what they say.” He says, arching a brow pointedly. Aleksander doesn’t have the faintest idea what they’re talking about, but judging by the way Cahir settles, it must be something important.

“Of course we were serious,” Eryk says breezily, beginning to walk up and down between the tables. “Now. As Nolyn rightly pointed out, we can’t keep you as you’re sworn to Nilfgaard, but with his highness's blessing,” at this, he gives Prince Voorhis a cheeky, but properly respectful bow. Aleksander is pleased with how well he executes it, “I’d like to proceed with the joint honorary custody discussion.”

Prince Voorhis looks to Cahir, and the two of them have a silent exchange, before Voorhis looks to Aleksander, then to Eryk. “I must admit, I’m not entirely familiar with what... ‘honourary joint custody’ would entail.

Eryk beams at him. “It’s pretty simple really! It refers to what Schools someone is considered allied to. It’s why we thought to ask Aleksander to act as arbitrator, he’s the best example of one.” He says, as his year-mates nod.

“I am?” Aleksander asks. This is the first time he is hearing of it.

Nolyn nods from where he is still seated at his table. “You are. You aren’t a Witcher, but you are a cousin of the Manticores, yet everyone knows that the Wolves count you as one of their own. And you are also clearly allied to the Cats.” He explains, and Aleksander can’t say that he’s wrong, now can he? The first he claims readily, the third bashfully, and the second, well. It’s a claim proposed by Aiden, endorsed by Jaskier, and – though he hasn’t heard them acknowledge it outright – approved of by Lambert and Geralt.

“Admittedly, Cahir’s situation is a bit more complicated, but we promise that honourary joint custody won’t affect any of his oaths.” Eryk promises. “And since it’s complicated, we figured it’d be best to involve yourself and Letho at the very least. As your representatives.” He adds cheerfully when spots Cahir’s confused expression.

Cahir looks to Voorhis then back to Eryk. “I understand his Highness but-”

“The Vipers will have them both as cousins.” Letho rumbles, expression splitting in to a shit eating grin when the Nilfgaardians turn back to look at him in surprise. Aleksander doesn’t blame them – it’s always intimidating to hear a Witcher establish a bond between yourself and their school. “We’ll see if we decide to share.” Letho adds with what seems to be an amused scowl.

“Well they’re clearly not just the Vipers’.” Eryk complains, crossing his arms.

“Voorhis trained under Aukes and Zofia.”

“Vipers aren’t the only one who use daggers.”

“Still didn’t get taught by Cats, now did he?”

“He could be!”

Aleksander clears his throat, knocks on the table, and is pleasantly surprised to see the two Witchers cease talking. Well. That answers what they expect his role to be. “While Prince Voorhis’...honourary joint custody may still be up for debate, it isn’t the topic currently at hand.” He says as firmly as he can. “Before we proceed further – Sir Cahir, do you consent to this...hearing?” He asks.

Cahir still looks utterly baffled, but his expression shifts to one of sheepish fondness. “If my lord would provide his consent and approval?” He says, giving Prince Voorhis a seated bow.

Prince Voorhis shakes the baffled expression on his face away and nods. “If it is as you say – an agreement that does not contradict, nor interfere with any of Sir Cahir’s existing oaths, then yes. I give my blessing.”

Aleksander nods. “Then please proceed.” He says, gesturing to Eryk, Michal and Nolyn’s side of the room.

Nolyn immediately stands. “My argument remains the same. Cahir should be considered one of the Griffins. His fighting style is most similar to our own, and it is acknowledged that of all the Schools, the Griffins are the closest to how knighthood operates as an organization.”

“Belonging to a School is more than a person’s fighting style.” Eryk counters. “Jaskier can be as fierce as any wolf, but he doesn’t fight.”

“Don’t know if I’d agree with that last part,” Aiden interrupts, leaning forward in his chair and slinging an arm around Aleksander’s shoulder. “Songbird is pretty handy with improvised weapons after all.”

Eryk points triumphantly at Aiden. “Which is exactly what I’m saying! Just because he’s a knight, doesn’t mean he’s a Griffin.”

“Well, he’s not a cat.”

“He could be if his armour wasn’t so bulky.”

“I’m not going to have too much of a choice there.” Cahir points out. “Perhaps when we aren’t at court, but otherwise,”

“You’re stuck in the ceremonial and fancy stuff that hampers your flexibility. I’ve got it.” Eryk finishes with a dramatic sigh.

There’s a brief pause before Michal speaks up. “Could make an argument for the Bears.” He muses aloud, and seems to take everyone off guard. Aleksander isn’t too familiar with any of the Bears aside from Esra, so he’s not quite sure what angle Michal will be taking. He himself isn’t familiar enough with the knight, but perhaps it’s in relation to temperament? Seeing everyone’s reaction, Michal grins. “He’s solved every Crane puzzle I’ve shared. Finished one of Orvyn’s faster than I did.”

“That one just happened to be similar to one I’ve seen before. It’s similar in concept to something my aunt gifted to me when I was a child.” Cahir says as Eryk and Nolyn make thoughtful noises of agreement. Which doesn’t really give Aleksander enough context to understand to be perfectly honest.

Seeing the others confusion, Michal thankfully explains. “The Cranes make puzzles for the Bears to solve. Cahir’s been trying his hand at them too. They’re relaxing.” He says, Cahir nodding in thoughtful agreement.

There’s a brief pause, before all three young witchers turn to Aleksander. “So. What do you think?” Eryk asks. “I guess I’m out argued for claiming him for the Cats, but I will say that Coen’s got a hatchling, so if I had to vote, I’d say the Bears should get to claim one.”

Nolyn rolls his eyes. “You could phrase that a little less impersonally.” He says, though the only response he gets is Eryk sticking his tongue out at him. “And again – he’s a knight!”

“But he hasn’t ever squired under a Griffin Witcher!”

“...I hate when you have a point.”

“I think,” Aleksander says, and once again, he’s quietly surprised and flattered at how quickly the argument dies down once he begins speaking, “that you all clearly care very much for your friend. And while I’m sure that it’s flattering to be in a position where, ah, honorary joint custody is established, there isn’t anything actually preventing him from honorarily belonging to each of your Schools. He shares a bond of friendship with all of you, after all.” Aleksander has to resist the urge to laugh as all their slightly stunned expressions. Aiden doesn’t bother to hide his reaction, snickering openly as he leans his forehead against Aleksander’s shoulder. They do look quite silly. Aleksander supposes in all their debating, they hadn’t realized that there had been a very obvious and simple answer sitting right in front of their noses. He quietly hopes that they don’t realize that this particular solution doesn’t actually answer the question of ‘which school would Cahir belong to.’

“Well. What do you say, Sir Cahir, Your Highness?”

Prince Voorhis smiles. “I think you’ve spoken well Master Aleksander. And I think that it speaks well of all parties that thought and care were put into the arguments they put forth for us.” There’s a pause as Voorhis clearly thinks something over – something that makes Aiden look up and watch him curiously. “And if it pleases you – you are welcome to call me Morvran.” His smile turns wry and hopeful. “I know that we set out in a few weeks, but it will be nice to experience true Kaer Morhen hospitality for a while longer.”

“Of course. And you may do the same for me.” Aleksander says with a smile, nodding at Cahir as well.

“Likewise,” Cahir says with a nod, before looking to the young Witchers, his expression softening. “And I’m honoured to be a...cousin and friend of all your schools.”

“Well. That was relatively painless.” Eryk says cheerfully, before bounding over to Cahir and pulling him up into a hug. His other two year-mates quickly follow after, prompting Aiden to coo teasingly.

Aleksander thinks that they’re just about finished when Eryk’s head pops up from their group hug. “Nope! Not finished, we’re still not done with you.” He says, grinning as he points at Morvran who starts in surprise. “Because I’m not convinced you’re just a viper.”

“He’s a wolf.”

Aleksander, Cahir and Morvran all jump as a voice rings out from above them. Looking upwards, Aleksander gapes as Ciri and Mouse peer down at them from the rafters. “How in the world?” Cahir mumbles, looking around to see how the two of them could’ve possibly climbed up there.

Aidan, however, is laughing openly. “What did you bribe Kiyan with this time Mousie?” He asks, standing and stepping just beneath them.

Mouse grins down at him. “That would be a trade secret. Sorry, Aidan.” She says, legs swinging in the air and looking utterly unrepentant.

Despite the banter, the Nilfgaardians are still wholly focused on Ciri, who gazes down at Morvran, a cautiously thoughtful look on her face. “I...I’m sorry, Ciri, what-?” Morvran still hasn’t regained his composure, though Aleksander cannot blame him. Everyone in the keep is well aware of how he’s been attempting to endear himself to Ciri, though as far as Aleksander is aware it’s shaped up to be more of a friendship rather than a courtship. But to very clearly be offered a claim by the daughter of the Wolf, well. Anyone would be able to recognize that that is something very significant, and something only granted to those who are deserving of it.

“You swore your oath and you meant it.” She says simply. “You’re like Aleksander.” Blinking, Aleksander looks from Ciri to Morvran, who meets his gaze with a little surprise, though his posture relaxes. Perhaps with the understanding of what Ciri means?

“’The school full of the sort of fools who look at the evil in the world and decide to go and fight it.’” Aiden muses, turning his gaze to Morvran, causing the prince to straighten. “Interesting thought, Little Menace.”

Letho hums. “Can’t say that I’d argue that point,” and that’s very interesting indeed. He had an inkling, but now Aleksander is sure that something else must have happened when the Nilfgaardians were allowed to stay the winter after the signing of that non-aggression pact months ago.

But instead of elaborating, Ciri, of course, lives up to her epithet and simply drops down from the rafters, utterly confident that Aiden would catch her, which, of course he does, before Aidan climbs up to pick up Mouse and leap down with her safely.

“Well. With that all settled – shall we head down to the kitchens? Julita said we could taste test some pastries to celebrate. Everyone’s more than welcome to come.” Nolyn says, causing Michal to hum in happy agreement and Eryk to cheer as he slings an arm around Cahir’s shoulder and tugs him along.

Aleksander rises and follows them out, but does make note of how Ciri and Morvran share a look. It’s a brief one – one that he’s sure that Mouse catches too – but it ends with Ciri giving him a firm nod, and Morvran returning it just as seriously. He’s not quite sure what it all means. But he hopes that Morvran proves himself worthy of Ciri’s regard. He himself hasn’t gotten a chance to really see for himself the kind of man Morvran is. But hopefully he’ll get a chance to, over Julita’s impeccable baking.

“Cahir still isn’t a Cat.”

“Nolyn, I swear, I’m going to stick your pair of good trousers on top of one of the towers, see if I don’t.”

Notes:

thank you for reading!