[ vash seems all too happy to be presented a task-- he fills geralt's mug just shy of the brim. generous, but not at risk of spilling. he takes his tender, too, stowing it in the nearest money box behind the counter. ]

Breakfast for one!

[ he calls, making eye contact with one of the kitchen staff. they nod at him, and he returns his attention to geralt. this isn't the first time he's helped out at an establishment that offers food. it's not even the second, or third.

his expression is gentle with understanding when geralt answers him; surviving is sometimes the best one can hope for. enduring long enough to see another sunrise. when the same question is asked of him, his laugh is wry and humorless. ]

Just trying to find my footing, I guess. I wasn't-- I know here I was gone for a year, but I was only back home for less than an hour.

[ the muscle in his jaw shifts when he briefly clenches his teeth. he looks tired. ]

A lot can happen in less than an hour.