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alvaar-aldaviir · 4 years

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First Bite (Vampire AU)

Based from this post. Because I can’t be trusted @ffxiv-writers.

Time Frame: Heavensward. No Spoilers. AU

Notes: A dumb vampire AU where the twins are older and dhampire’s. Vampires are the upper class and respected academics/mages in Sharlayan and so quite respected there, but wary mistrust everywhere else. Dhampire’s do not need blood to survive, but to replenish their magic. Everything else in the story is the same, more of an exploratory ‘what if’ because we ALL know vampires are kinda hot and I have no self control.

Just a self-indulgent bit of writing for that first bite scenario, after a heated battle against the Dravanians in early HW.

Cross posted to Ao3.

“You going to be alright?” Alvaar asked softly, studying the Arcanist still slumped against the side of the bed closer to the fire. He’d done his best to patch the larger holes torn into the long-abandoned cabin in the Coerthas Western Highlands, but even then the blizzard raging outside still blew frigid air through.

He wasn’t overly surprised when he only got a mute nod from the pale Elezen. Alphinaud hadn’t spoken much since he’d collapsed in the snows after a fourth abrupt bout with the Dravanian Horde during their scouting mission. With a barely breathing dhampire in his arms, unfamiliar terrain, and a storm rolling in, Alvaar had been given little choice but to try and hole up somewhere to wait it out. Finishing tacking up one of his spare oil skins over one of the shattered windows for insulation, he hopped down off a chair and moved closer. Tossing a few more logs on the fire and tugging the tipped over long table a bit closer to help reflect more heat into the sheltered alcove he’d made from what surviving furniture remained. It wouldn’t be the most lavish of accommodations, but there was plenty of wood to keep them from freezing to death and they wouldn’t be buried under snow. That would be good enough to get them through.

“Jerky?” he offered, holding the wax paper bag he dug out of his pack in offer. “Otherwise I might have enough stuff on me to cook something,” he continued, finding a seat beside him on the floor.

Still buried under the thick blanket Alvaar had wrapped him up in earlier, Alphinaud shook his head slowly, gaze fixed on some far-off point through the floor.

“You should eat something Alphinaud. And don’t start with a ‘only the blood of the living’ crap I’ve seen you eat scones and tea,” Alvaar chided.

“I eat solid foods yes. But it would be a waste right now. I won’t keep it down,” he murmured.

That made the Bard still before ducking his head to study him with concern. “You sick? You said earlier it was magic depletion. That’s a rest and eat well situation Leveilleur. I can do a broth or something instead?”

Again, he shook his head, seeming a touch more annoyed but breathing out a slow sigh before he winced with discomfort. “I... I’m afraid I didn’t account for this much difficulty in our travels. And in light of recent days and troubles it has been difficult to acquire fresh stock...” he mumbled.

Staring at him for a long moment, Alvaar finally piped in with a flat, “You need blood.”

The dhampire’s ears twitched, a faint flush coloring his face as he ducked his head. “I... I’ll be fine. It will be difficult, but I can make it until we get back to Ishgard. The shipment Urianger was orchestrating must have arrived by now.”

A long moment of silence stretched out between them, Alvaar chewing on another bite of jerky as he mulled it over before washing it down with a swig from his canteen and slapping a hand to the floor.

“Well, people got to eat,” Alvaar offered with a much calmer tone than he really felt. “It’s just a bit of blood, right? Nothing fatal?”

Alphinaud blinked at him in surprise, the first proper look Alvaar had gotten of him and the red of his eyes was a stark shift from the deep blue he was familiar with. It was enough to make the hairs on the back of his neck prickle uncomfortably, but he refused to let it show.

A few stunned moments ticked past before the Arcanist was nodding. “Y-Yes. I mean no, I mean... of course it’s nothing fatal I’m not savage,” he scoffed at last before his expression muted back out with a faint wince.

Alvaar studied him silently, noting the slightly hunched posture and the way the Elezen’s arms were wrapped at his stomach. He seemed almost sick from the Bards point of view, and in some manner he probably was. Alvaar was familiar with the feeling of starving after all, the gnawing almost sickening ache of an overly empty stomach...

“Then I’ll help,” he stated promptly. “Or donate, whatever you want to call it. What do you need me to do? Get a knife? Offer my neck? What?”

Staring at him in puzzled discomfort for a moment the Arcanist sighed heavily. “Nothing so dramatic... in fact I, well, I prefer drinking from a glass honestly that’s how I’ve consumed blood for years,” he mused aloud.

“... Holy shit do you just have fucking wine bottles of blood lying around in your fancy mansion in Sharlayan? Have you ever served it to a non-vampire?” Alvaar asked, tone purposely upbeat to keep them both distracted and given the nervously amused snort that escaped the pale Elezen it must have worked.

“In a fashion, yes I suppose so, and no. We’ve never mixed up the bottles. ... but a knife would be wasteful I think. It would also hurt more, and I would really rather... Just your arm please? If you’re certain...” he murmured, keeping his gaze lowered and obviously embarrassed and uncomfortable.

“Hey, what’s a little blood among friends hm? Sides, it’s better than the alternatives. I’d rather not see any problems today and, well starving sucks,” Alvaar murmured, holding his arm over after slipping it free from his coat and rolling up his sleeve.

The fingers that lightly gripped his wrist were eerily cold, enough to almost make the Bard flinch but he refrained given how guilty Alphinaud already seemed about the whole thing. And it wasn’t a big deal, it would be like a trip to the chirurgeons... just where needles were teeth... apparently...

“It’s been awhile since I’ve done this,” the Arcanist murmured, thumb trailing along the inside of the Bards wrist almost like he was measuring something. Then he was drawing Alvaar’s arm up even as he lowered his head, mouth opening wide and-

‘Have his canines always been that long?’ Alvaar wondered with a start, watching in morbid fascination as elongated canines set to his skin and-

“Ah!” he hissed before he could stop himself, gritting his teeth and still stubbornly staying put by force of will at the burning pinpricks he felt in his arm. The pain only doubled when the Arcanist jerked away abruptly at the sound.

“Sorry! Twelve above, sorry Alvaar I-” he apologized immediately.

“Don’t worry about it, just a reflex. Do what you gotta kid,” Alvaar cut in, lifting his arm a bit for emphasis. “Rude to waste food, right?” he joked.

The glower he got in return made him grin even as his heart was thumping instinctively with fear.

“I meant sorry because I haven’t done this in some time and I’ve sort of forgotten the steps...” the Arcanist grumbled, a faint flush of embarrassment on his face. “Just... don’t judge, it’ll help.”

Alvaar had been about to question it before falling silent at the wet heat of a tongue lapping over the wound. He winced again on reflex, but the sting was already fading to leave only the pleasant warmth of the man’s mouth against his skin.

“Oh... that’s, neat?” he murmured, still morbidly entranced by the whole situation.

Alphinaud made a soft sound, more to let him know he’d heard him than for anything else. Darker eyes flicked to the Bard pointedly as he lifted his head slightly. “Better?”

“Yea. It’s fine.”

“Good. ... Could you... oh, never mind,” he huffed.

“Could I what?” he pressed.

“I was going to ask if you could look away but somehow, I doubt you would,” Alphinaud mumbled sheepishly.

Blinking at him in confusion, the Bard snorted when it clicked. “Don’t bite people much huh?”

It earned a flat scowl. “Not particularly. Were things not so dire I would prefer to just weather it out but... with all of the fighting since we arrived, I’ve depleted my aether reserves. Even half vampires still have slower aetheric recuperation than most every other creature-”

“Not that this isn’t fascinating but maybe explain it once you’re done?” Alvaar cut in pointedly. “Honestly, I think it’s more surprising you’re not just fixated on my blood.”

“I am,” Alphinaud shot back a bit sharper than he meant and quickly looking away. “... It just... helps. To think about other things and not the fact I’m starving. Wouldn’t you pace yourself so you don’t make yourself sick?”

“... Would you get sick?” Alvaar returned, tilting his head a bit in puzzlement.

“I... no, but what could happen would be worse and I would rather it not happen.”

“Lose control you mean,” the Bard continued flatly, taking the faint flush on the other Elezen’s face as a yes. “Listen I won’t hesitate to punch you in the fucking face if you start gnawing up my arm. This buffet ain’t open and it ain’t free.”

“You say while insisting I hurry up and drink...” Alphinaud returned drily.

“And you should before my senses come back to me and I change my mind. That’s my draw arm I’m offering and it’s going to be a pain in the ass firing while injured.”

“You won’t be injured,” the Arcanist returned promptly before setting his teeth back to Alvaar’s arm and this time he barely felt a thing. Well, he felt something distantly, like his arm was locally numb and he registered the pressure, but he could still clearly feel the softness of lips and tongue against his skin and-

It was a little unsettling how those smut novels were rather on point. It was sort of... sensual wasn’t it?

Looking off abruptly, the Bard resolved himself to not think about it. It was just to help a friend. A very annoying prat of a friend that also happened to be a half vampire or dhampire or... whatever it was. Certainly nothing to get this bothered over. Unless…

“... Wait, there isn’t some passive enchantment shit is there?” he asked, looking back at the snowy haired Elezen. Who wasn’t listening and seemed rather intent on the whole blood thing now...

Shite.

“Hey. There isn’t some mind control shit in all this right?” he asked again, louder and tapping Alphinaud’s shoulder as he tried not to panic.

Thankfully, it got his attention, pulling away with a parting lick and wavering sigh. “Beg pardon?” he asked, blue eyes back to normal but dark and vibrant and honestly if Alvaar needed to find words to describe the soft breathy way he spoke and look he was giving it would be something akin to ‘hour two of marathon sex.’ The urge to ask if he wanted a cigarette almost overrode any sense of propriety.

His question dropped off his mind as he noted the clarity of his own thoughts against the warm and almost sleepy look of the dhampire sitting next to him. If anyone here was charmed it wasn’t himself… And hadn’t Minfillia mentioned something about the Echo protecting his mind from outside intrusion in the past? … Damnit. He wasn’t supposed to be the one panicking here.

“You okay?” he asked carefully after shaking himself free from the thoughts.

“Fine. Perfectly fine,” Alphinaud replied, finally seeming to settle fully into the present and glancing down to where his fingers were still curled around the Bards wrist before lowering a hand to his tome. The healing spell was faint, but still as quiet and warm as the times before as it sealed the two pinpricks of blood before he let go and shifted away a few feet. “Thank you, um, yes, sorry for that and not to be rude but please stay over there for a few minutes.”

“Okay,” Alvaar murmured slowly. “But you’re fine?”

“Absolutely.”

“And you’re not going to savage me...”

“Of course not.”

“So...?” Alvaar pressed after a few moments.

“.... What?” Alphinaud asked, giving him a wary look.

“I don’t get a critique on the vintage?” he joked.

“Alvaar don’t ask that...”

“Why not?”

“Because I really don’t enjoy hurting people contrary to public opinion of my kind and it’s a little hard to remember it when you taste that good,” he returned flatly before pausing, another faint flush coloring his face before he was hugging his knees to his chest in a sulk.

“.... You know I thought I would be... So, is it more like trying to pin down a liquid flavor or a solid flavor?” Alvaar continued anyway.

“We are not having this conversation Aldaviir.”

“I see how it is. Here I am, putting myself out on the line and-”

“Alvaar.” It’s said firmly but there was a touch of anxiety underneath, a note the Bard doesn’t miss in part because it’s reflected in the nervous gaze he’s getting. The glitter of ocean blue over the top of his knees where he’s still hunched over, arms wrapped around his legs and making himself as small as possible.

It’s not the first time he notices how naive and inexperienced the dhampire can be, but it is the first time he thinks perhaps the Arcanist may be more concerned over what makes him different than Alvaar ever was.

He blinks, meeting that worried gaze for a long moment before glancing away to study the fire instead. “You’re right, I shouldn’t tease you. I’m sorry that was out of line.” The quiet crackles of the fire and howling winds outside are the only thing to fill the minutes of silence that stretch between them.

“... How do you make jokes about it?”

The whispered question almost doesn’t reach Alvaar’s ears, but it does and he gives the Arcanist a puzzled look anyway.

“The people of Eorzea... They fear my kind. They only begrudgingly accepted any help from my Grandfather because the situation was so desperate, and they didn’t know what he was. Surely they might suspect it but they would never ask. The only ones here aside from the Scions that know what I am is you...” he murmured, carrying on when Alvaar remained quiet. “When my sister and I first arrived, we came across a caravan being overrun by bandits. The situation was so bleak, and the night was so dark, we had little choice but to use our powers to help them.”

Voice trailing off, the Arcanist buried himself a bit further into the blanket he’d been given. “They screamed. They called us monsters. When everything was over, they tried to kill us too. Alisaie said she wasn’t surprised. The ignorance of Eorzeans has always been a problem she said. But... I started to understand why.

“We don’t think of it much in Sharlayan, where vampires are accepted parts of society. Mortals donate blood freely and it’s preserved and kept openly. Many of the great advancements in aetherology have been made with mortal and vampire scholars working together. There’s no reason to be afraid of vampires because it’s taught to us from the day we’re born not to hurt others. Why would we have to take what’s freely given? We give back our achievements and research freely in exchange. We fight and work together. It’s a cardinal sin to turn someone into a vampire, or to willfully harm someone. Punishable by death or exile at the very least, a sentence that may as well mean death. But the people of Eorzea don’t see that. They only see us as monsters... as something approaching voidsent... So why don’t you? Why aren’t you afraid?”

Studying him quietly for a moment Alvaar pushed himself closer. Pausing briefly when Alphinaud tensed before carefully looping an arm around the Arcanist’s shoulders and pulling him into his side. Settling his cheek against soft white hair he blew out a faint sigh.

“You’re not a monster Alphi, you’re my friend. I made a promise to you and Tataru both when we fled to Coerthas. That I would keep you safe and protect you. I don’t make those sorts of promises to people I don’t trust and care about. What you are doesn’t change who you are right? As far as I’m concerned, you’re just a friend with some interesting dietary needs.”

Blinking at nothing in particular, the dhampire made a slight annoyed face Alvaar couldn’t see but could hear. “It’s vaguely insulting to hear you distill my troubles down to something so base.”

Alvaar gave a soft snort of amusement. “Sorry. Not my intent. It’s just... not a big deal to me personally Alphi. The world at large has its reasons, and I’ll admit I was wary at first but we’re really not that different. Sides, whatever you took I feel fine so it doesn’t seem that big a deal to me.”

“Your blood is... unusually aether rich,” Alphinaud commented after a moment. “It wouldn’t take very much.”

“No shit? Well, I barely cast magic anyway, so I guess that’s fortunate for next time,” Alvaar returned easily.

“Next time?” The incredulous look on the Arcanist’s face had the Bard trying extremely hard not to laugh.

“Yea next time. There always ends up being a next time for this sort of stuff. Gods, read a book Leveilleur,” Alvaar joked, pulling away enough to steal part of the blanket and readjust it over both their shoulders.

“What sort of books are you reading where there’s an invariable need to take blood from someone ‘next time?’” he persisted, frowning as he was once again pulled into the Bard’s side.

Ruffling fluffy white strands absently, Alvaar stretched out a bit, crossing one boot over the other and settling back against the broken bed frame. Leaning his cheek against Alphinaud’s head, he gave a faint squeeze of the arm around him. “Come on, quit fussing and get some sleep.”

“That’s not you answering my question Alvaar,” he complained.

“I have my sources. Now hush, we should get some sleep while we can.”

The Arcanist blew out an irritated breath but didn’t argue it further. Though he did make a reasonable effort by the way he shifted and the several bothered huffs he made as he got comfortable of letting Alvaar know he was beyond annoyed. It just made the Bard chuckle in amusement, again ruffling soft strands gently before closing his eyes and slipping into the easy light sleep that was waiting to claim him faster than usual.

It made him miss when the Arcanist finally eased into his side, shifting a bit closer into the Bard’s warmth before falling into a quiet sleep himself.

#wol #alvaar aldaviir #alphinaud #alphinaud leveilleur #vampire au #smells like writer's block #someone take my fanfic privileges away #now I'm writing vampires #friendly reminder Alvaar absolutely reads trashy romances #on the off chance anyone wants to run with this #go ahead. I'm unlikely to do much with it #oc #writing #mywriting

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fanonorcanon · 5 years

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Cullen & F!Mage Trevelyan (Peaceful Thedas AU)

“Oh for fuckssakes,” She groaned, getting up slowly. The eluvian had thrown her out at the top of a hill. A hill strewn with bushes, rocks and weeds.

“Are you alright, that was quite a fall,” someone said.

“Oh yes, completely fine,” she spat, dusting off her clothes and the pack that had fallen from her back. “Nothing like rolling down a fucking hill that’s at least ten feet tall with--” she began before she looked up. Oh, Maker. He’s hot. “Sorry,” She finished lamely.

He chuckled and she felt her face grow hot.

“Can we start over? Hello, I’m Tilda, and you are?”

“Cullen, a pleasure to meet you,”

“Why yes, it certainly is,” she smirked, tilting her head. He seemed stunned rather than pleased so she pressed on. “So where am I, Cullen?”

“You don’t know where you are?” He asked.

“Not really, eluvians don’t usually come with instructions.”

“You came through an eluvian? I’ve only heard of those in legends!” He grinned.

“Uh yeah, anyway, where is this?”

“Ferelden.”

“Yes, I figured as much, but where?”

“Oh! Apologies. We’re in Honnleath,” Cullen replied matter-of-factly.

“No, really. Where are we?” She laughed.

“I’m not sure I understand why you think I would lie about that, but we are indeed in Honnleath. Redcliffe is several miles that way.”

“Huh,” She heaved a sigh and began pacing.

“Are you alright, my lady?”

“So let me get this straight. Here, in this Thedas, Honnleath never got invaded by darkspawn?”

“Dark what?”

Her jaw dropped. She'd heard of eluvians taking people to faraway places, but never to a different world. A different timeline maybe? Very strange indeed. “You’re kidding. You’ve got to be. You don’t even have darkspawn? Well shit. I really lucked out. No demons either then?”

“A myth told by the Chantry,” Cullen replied hesitantly.

“Okay.” She nodded.

“Are those common where you’re from?”

“Very. You guys been to war much?”

“What?” Cullen was adorable and completely sheltered by a land that had never known war.

“I’m staying here,” She murmured, mostly to herself. She made the decision without hesitation because fuck that conflict-ridden world. The maker had given her a chance to start over in a land with no big bad hanging over one’s head. “You guys probably don’t even have slavery here, do you?”

“No, not in Ferelden. There are some who aren’t opposed to the idea, but I am. Is that a problem for you, Tilda?” He asked sharply.

“Not at all, you misunderstand, I deplore slavers.”

Cullen smiled brightly, clearly relieved.

“Definitely staying here,” She said, louder this time.

“You’ll probably want to stay with one of my sisters for the time being,” Cullen said firmly. “I’m sure I can send a messenger on to let them know. I don’t think they’d mind.”

“Nah, I’m fine right here. Hopefully you can give me some insight on where and what this place is. Because right now it's a damn paradise compared to the Thedas I knew.”

“If you insist. Just for tonight until I can arrange something more fitting for you,” Cullen agreed reluctantly, leading me towards his house.

“Hey, Cullen I am not fussy at all. I was actually trying to get away from some demons. Nasty things, trust me.”

“If you weren’t opposed to it, I’d love to hear some tales of the way things are there.”

“To someone who’s only known peace, I’m sure they’ll sound very grand but that’s not really what they are,” She replied.

Cullen gestured for her to sit while he fetched cups and a pitcher of water.

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have asked.”

He sat everything down, including slices of hearty bread with butter and jam before sitting down.

“Should have made tea,” he murmured to himself.

She put a hand on his arm. “You don’t have to be so nervous, Cullen.”

“I’m not, at least I don’t think I am. I don’t get much company that I welcome other than my family so I suppose I am feeling a bit out of sorts.”

“So you get a lot of unwelcome company then?” She arched a brow at the blush that stole over his face. “Let me guess, a handsome man like you probably gets lots of proposals?”

“No!” He sputtered.

“So more than a lot?” She pressed.

“Maker’s breath. I don’t think they’re proposals. But they do ask me to meet them at some place in Redcliffe it's either a fountain or statue or something, I'm afraid I don't concern myself with the specifics. I always tell them that I’d rather not make the trip and leave things unattended for so long. There are many older people living in the area, I worry about them you see.”

“Wow,” she giggled. “So you’re turning down loads of people so that you can help the elderly. You’re a real charmer, huh Cullen?” She tried to bite back further laughter as he blushed even harder.

“It just seems like the right thing to do!” Cullen huffed.

“I’m sorry. That’s just so precious.”

They talked well into the evening about his family, her own family and things they like to do when they have the time. Conversation lulled only when their stomachs growled loudly. Cullen chuckled and got up to make dinner.

“Would you like some help?”

“No, you're a guest, please rest. I'm sure you need it after today. Demons, huh?”

“Yeah, demons. Horrible things.”

“What were you doing before you encountered them?”

“There was a war with mages and templars that hadn’t been going well for either side so there was an agreement to meet peacefully to talk. I was marching to the temple of sacred ashes with friends from my former Circle in hopes of making an accord or at least some sort of pact, but I think there was an explosion, some woman urging me on… I can't seem to remember that part. It's not important though; seems more like a nightmare than anything.” She tried to push away the thought of what it would mean to the Thedas she knew that the only way anyone thought there'd be peace had perhaps disappeared in a giant flash of green flame. Mages would certainly be painted the villain. She sighed heavily.

“It sounds important.” Cullen looked worried, his brows furrowed thoughtfully.

“I doubt a simple alchemist like myself would make any difference in the oncoming storm there,” She chuckled humorlessly.

“Maybe it's the romantic in me but I've read many stories where one person makes all the difference. I truly believe that's possible. And you've fought demons before so it seems that you'd do a lot better than someone like me.”

“That's kind that you think so much of me, but more to the point; are you trying to get rid of me already, Cullen?” She feigned deep offense, laying a hand against her chest.

“Of course not! I just don't think I should put my own desire for agreeable company above the fate of the world. Even if it isn't my world.”

“So you find me agreeable? Only agreeable?” She teased.

“Stop that,” he huffed.

“I’m sorry, but you make it very easy to tease you,” she grinned sweetly at him.

He set down a pot of tea then two plates laden with cheese, cured meats, apples and more of the hearty bread from earlier.

“Let's just eat.” He sat across from her, a blush reaching his ears.

Seeing him get flustered over the smallest things was just too much.

“Are there mages and templars here?” She asked around a mouthful of bread.

“Slow down. The food’s not going anywhere, my lady.” Cullen chuckled at her frown.

“They're not very common. I've only met two mages in my life and not a single templar,” he said.

“Do templars rule over mages?”

His brow creased. “No. Why would templars need to rule over mages?”

She began to tell him about demons, harrowings, tranquil and the rite of annulment some mages had been threatened with.

“Templars, where I come from anyway, operate under this guise that they need to protect mages from themselves. In my own experience many templars fancy themselves as jailors to mages, think themselves beyond reproach. Some do really bad things. Tormenting someone who cannot fight back, either because they fear retribution or in the case of tranquil where they’re incapable of standing up for themselves because the spell doesn’t let them is abhorrent. Those templars are rarely reprimanded.”

“But couldn't mages just supervise each other? It hardly seems fair. And no one deserves to be made tranquil,” Cullen huffed.

They sat in companionable silence for some time before she spoke again.

“Can I tell you a secret?” She whispered.

“I'd be honored to keep your secret, my lady.”

“I actually considered becoming tranquil.”

“Why? Why would you give up your free will?” Cullen asked, completely aghast.

“I didn't want to leave myself open to corruption. It was something that had been drilled into me so heavily to the point of paranoia. But one of my instructors convinced me to go forward with my training. That it was okay to be unsure, but to hone your mind like a blade and always be on watch. To be cautious but bold.”

“They sound like a really great person.” Cullen smiled at her.

“Yeah, thanks Cullen.” She sighed happily. “I haven't told anyone that since my instructor all those years ago.”

“If you’re truly intent on staying, we could use an alchemist in the area. As I said there are many elderly people living nearby and the nearest alchemist is in Redcliffe. Having one closer could make all the difference,” Cullen said quietly.

“Is there some place I could stay for longer than a single night? I don’t want to besmirch your honor, ser Cullen,” she said playfully.

“I’d have to ask around.”

“Don’t worry too much. I could find a cave somewhere out there and become a real ‘witch of the wilds’,” she giggled.

“I don’t know if that’s a good idea, there are bears and wolves aplenty out there.”

“Cullen, I’ve fought demons and darkspawn. I’m sure I can fend off some wildlife.”

“I’d rather you not have to though,” Cullen said softly, his brow creasing once more. He seemed deep in thought before he slapped a hand on his knee. “There’s an old fishing shack near the lake, I could fix it up a bit for you. It’s not far from here.”

“As long as it’s not too much trouble.”

“It should only take a few days. You can stay here in the meantime. I’ll sleep there.” He stood abruptly and began to walk towards the door.

“Surely it can wait until tomorrow. I could help,” she reasoned.

“No time like the present,” he grinned. “I’ll return in a few days, though I might stop in for food every now and then if I can’t find any game.”

“But what about supplies? Nails and things.”

“I can get those tomorrow. I’m mostly going to check the damage and gather lumber.”

Her eyes widened. “You’re really something.”

“Thank you, I think.”

“Please don’t push yourself too hard. I’d rather you not hurt yourself just for…” She couldn’t help trailing off.

“No, I’d really appreciate having an alchemist in the area. This is simply a service to the community!” He chuckled.

“I’d still like to help, Cullen. It’ll be dark soon and it’d be a lot easier to see in the dark with help.” She held out a hand and summoned veilfire to her palm. “Are you sure I can’t convince you?”

“That’s amazing. I-I suppose that would be very helpful.”

She checked her bag for the basics, bedroll, soap and a change of clothes. He packed his own bag with the same, including food and basic cooking supplies.

“And to think you were just going to walk out the door without all this,” she chuckled.

“I was a bit eager, I suppose.”

She nodded and followed him outside and towards the shack, he picked up an axe by the door on their way out. When they arrived she saw no damage, and thought it needed no repairs.

“No, no, it needs some kind of insulation, tar or something between the boards. You can see inside from here. And besides, it’d be much too cold, my lady.”

“There’s a fireplace and a bed. I don’t need much more than that, Cullen.”

“No, this is unacceptable.” He shook his head and frowned.

“You’re very stubborn,” she commented.

“Maybe so, but I will make certain this place is comfortable several days from now.”

They set down their packs and searched for suitable lumber.

“You’re not cutting down a tree right now, are you?” She asked alarmed.

“No, I was just going to mark them with chalk then come back tomorrow with tools and possibly some additional hands for heavy lifting. My sisters are both betrothed to strong men, and will likely need little convincing to help bring an alchemist to the area.” He ran a hand through his hair. It was curling around the edges from the heat.

She built a fire when dusk approached.

“You can head home now. I’ll be fine here for tonight.”

“What, don’t be ridiculous. I’m sleeping here. I’ll walk you back. You deserve comfort after the day you’ve had.”

She shrugged. “I’m quite accustomed to roughing it, Cullen.”

“I’m afraid I must insist, my lady.”

“You’re not going to budge on this, are you?” She frowned at him.

She tried to settle in his bed after watching him go but instead ended up browsing his bookshelves. Hidden behind several books on sword and armor care was a book called ‘Hard in Hightown’ the cover was much different than the copy she'd seen in her own world. She grinned. Who would have thought Cullen would have smut like this? She settled onto the couch and began to read. Before she’d realized she’d gotten to the last chapter.

“My lady? I knocked on the door, but you didn’t answer, are you alright?” Cullen asked as the front door cracked a bit.

“Yes, I’m fine. Come on in.”

“What are you reading?” His smile seemed to rival the sunlight streaming through the door behind him before he shut it.

“Oh, just a little something called ‘Hard in Hightown’.”

He visibly paled.

“It’s quite good, actually. I wasn’t expecting much from a title like that, but it distracted me enough that I didn’t sleep. I must have lost track of time.”

“Maker’s breath,” he sighed. “I apologize, I’ll take that back now. It should be nothing more than kindling.”

“But I’m almost finished! Have a seat.”

Cullen looked nervous, but sat beside her on the couch.

She feigned intense focus and watched him squirm from the corner of her eye.

“Maybe I should make some tea,” he muttered, going to stand. She set her hand across his restless legs to still them.

After she’d finished the story, including the autographed page at the back, she closed the book and set it down.

“So why does he call you Curly? Is it because of your hair?”

Cullen nodded.

“He’s a writer in my world as well. Mostly of crime novels. Is this what he’s best known for? Erotic romance?” She smirked as Cullen went pink and nodded again. “Okay, I’ve tortured you enough. Let’s eat then get to work. I plan to earn my keep in any way I can. Well, save for how some of the folks in the book earned it,” she giggled. Cullen hid his face in his hands and groaned.

“I’m truly sorry that you saw that, my lady.”

“I’m not. It was a good way to spend an evening.”

“You sure you’re not too tired?”

“Cullen,” she began, exasperated. “I'll be fine.”

“As you will, my lady.”

☙ ☙ ☙

After having a quick breakfast of eggs and smoked meat they headed to the lake.

“I wasn't sure if you wanted me to tell anyone of how you got here,” Cullen said quietly.

“Hm, I suppose it would pose a lot of questions,” she replied.

“I only told them that you're an alchemist and you thought this would be a nice place to settle in. I hope I didn't speak out of turn.”

“Not at all. Thank you, Cullen.”

Once they'd gotten close to the clearing by the lake a blond man was waving enthusiastically and wore a bright smile.

“This is Alistair and this is Thom,” Cullen said.

“Good morning, my lady,” Thom said, looking up from papers he had spread over a stump.

“So Cullen tells us you're the alchemist who fell from the sky,” Alistair chuckled. “He didn't tell us what a beauty you are, though.”

“Yes. He did.” Thom said flatly.

“Should I tell Mia that her betrothed is flirting with other women?” Cullen was flushed all the way to his ears but wore an intense frown.

“I don't mean any of it! She knows I'm only joking, see she's smiling. You're no fun at all, Cullen. He's a real mood killer isn't he Thom?” Alistair said.

Thom hummed thoughtfully.

“How long have you been an alchemist, Tilda?” Alistair asked.

“I started helping my mum when I was small, but I polished my skills in a mage academy.”

“Are you from Tevinter then? I hear that place is crawling with mages these days.”

“I'm not, but the mage academy was in Tevinter, yes.” She was lying through her teeth. She'd never even been to Tevinter! “But I haven't been there for some time. I've mostly been wandering Ferelden.”

“Where are you from, then?”

“Ostwick,” She answered truthfully.

“Shall we get to work then?” Cullen asked. “Thom can you show her your plans?”

Thom nodded.

They'd planned to give the shack siding and shutters for the few windows. True to Cullen’s word, they’d all finished before the week was out. Thom had come back a few days later with a cabinet well suited for alchemy. There were over a dozen small drawers, shelves for empty vials and cabinets beneath it for larger tools like a brew pot and kettle. It was a lovely gesture and she thanked him profusely for his kindness.

Shortly after settling in and stocking up on herbs for common potions and cures she was often visited by Cullen.

“Are you sure you don't need any help, my lady?”

“You could call me Tilda for a change,” she teased him.

“I'm being polite,” Cullen argued.

“As you will then. Do you need something? A love potion perhaps? Now that you don't have to dote on the elderly you should be free to accept invitations from admirers.” She couldn't help smirking at him.

“Maker's breath,” he whispered. “Call me a prude if you will but I don't know if I'm ready for all that. I'm building an archway for my sisters weddings.”

“It's okay to not be interested in romance, Cullen.”

He sank down into a chair at the small table she'd squeezed in for dining on.

“It's not that I'm not interested,” he began hesitantly.

“But?”

“It's just as I've said. I don't think I'm ready. I have so many ideas of what romance should be and I don't want to make a mistake.”

“You can't expect to be perfect at the start. And if you find the right person they'll understand and help you through any inexperience you might have. Communication is the most important thing in a relationship.”

“That seems very wise. Did you leave anyone behind in… that other world?” There was a look in his eye that she'd never seen.

“Most certainly. Left a trail of broken hearts all the way here.”

“You're seeing someone now? I had no idea.”

“I'm joking, Cullen. There's not much room for romance in a circle. Was just a few unpleasant experiences that aren't worth mentioning.”

“Oh.”

“I hear Annabel is pretty sweet on you. Alistair said that she's brought you so many pies that you've begun sharing. I have yet to get one of them.” She feigned offense.

“It seemed wrong. I don't know why. If you like I can bring one.”

She let a silence fall between them.

“I'm sorry, my lady. I wasn't trying to hide it or anything.”

She stood and turned away from him to hide her grin.

“They're not even very good.”

She burst into laughter.

“You're worse than Alistair,” he huffed indignantly.

“Pah, I'm far more charming.”

“I suppose,” Cullen mumbled, a blush coloring his cheeks.

“Mister Rutherford, if I didn't know any better I'd say you were flirting just now!” A woman with curly blond hair stood in the open doorway.

“Mia!” Cullen yelped.

#dragon age #dragon age inquisition #female trevelyan #cullen rutherford #dai #fanon writes fic

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lostinfic · 6 years

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Hardy/Hannah fic tennis | 9

A collaboration with @fadewithfury

Each in turn we will write 300-500 words. Neither of us knows what the other will write before our turn - it has not been beta’d or previewed.

The story so far: Hannah is a P.I. specialized in cheating spouses and Hardy the author of popular mystery novels. How will a phone number found in a forgotten coat bring them together?

Rating: All ages (so far)

Previously:

When Daisy disappeared into her room to do homework, he went out to his balcony and stared at the number on his mobile for Dejour Investigation. He really shouldn’t do this. It was stupid - but he did have her book, and no other way to get in touch with her. With a deep breath, he pressed the button to dial the number.

Hannah’s phone rang. “Where the bloody hell are you?” she shrieked.

“Sorry?”

“There’s water up to my knees! Bring your arse over here.” She pushed another towel under the sink to absorb the water leaking from a pipe. “Mr. Nowak?”

“No, it’s Alec Hardy. I’m calling because I have your book. What’s going on?”

“I had a bloody burst pipe a few days ago, and the plumber who repaired it did a shit job cause it’s burst again. I called him a half-hour ago and he’s not here yet.”

“I’ll come over and help you.”

Barefoot and trousers pushed up to his knees, Alec twisted a wrench uselessly around the pipe while Hannah watched over his shoulder.

So far, all he’d done was hold the towels while she looked frantically around the house for the valve to stop the flow of water. And now this clumsy handling of a wrench. She held back a giggle. “You don’t actually know anything about plumbing, do you?”

“I do! I know things about pipes.”

Hannah indulged him and let him work. She did like the sight of him with his shirtsleeves rolled up and the look of intense focus on his face.

He dropped the wrench and cursed. He ran a wet hand through his hair and pinched his lips together. “I don’t know what I’m doing. I’m a writer, I’m not handy. Sorry.”

“It’s alright. Thanks for trying to help anyway.” It was endearing that he’d rushed to her help despite the late hour and barely knowing her.

“I hope I didn’t make it worse,” he said.

They looked at each other and laughed.

He stood up and stretched his back with a groan, then offered her a hand to pull her up to her feet as well.

They wrung the soaked towels into the bathtub and mopped the floor until the plumber arrived. They let him work in the bathroom, and returned to the first floor.

“I guess I should go now,” he said.

“If that’s what you want. You don’t have to. I can make us a cuppa. You can’t go out with your clothes all wet.”

He looked down at his blue button-up and the light splashes on it. “Yeah, okay.”

Hannah tried to fill the kettle only to remember the water was shut off. She offered Alec a whiskey instead. While she fixed their drinks, he browsed the bookcases framing the fireplace.

“Your novels are in my bedroom,” she said.

“I wasn’t looking for that.”

“Right, you’re not that full of yourself.”

“I try not to be.” He took the proffered glass. “I was returning your book, but I can’t figure out where it goes.”

“They’re not in alphabetical order. The books with a blue spine go in the guest bedroom,” she explained. Only shades of white and grey for the living room.

“Right.”

They talked about books and the weather and house chores, but small talk was obviously not his forte. He kept a hand in his pocket, shifting his weight from foot to foot. Hannah patted the sofa cushion beside her in invitation, hoping to put him at ease.

“So you’re a private investigator,” he said.

“How did you know?”

He explained Ellie’s research. “We cross-referenced a few things.”

“Cross-referenced? Who’s the detective now?”

“I write one, I’m bound to pick up a few tricks.” He shrugged. “So your job, that’s really great. It must be brilliant.”

“You do realize I tempt men into adultery for a living.”

The way his mouth opened without a word coming out told her hadn’t, in fact, realized that.

“Yeah. That’s how most men react… including my latest date.” When she’d finally made time to see James again, she’d told him the truth, and he’d all but fled the restaurant. Somehow he thought she was no more trustworthy than the men she investigated. “I’ve seen what getting cheated on does to people, I’ve had it done to me, I could never do that to someone. I don’t sleep with those men, I just--” Her voice trembled with anger, so she clenched her jaw shut. She hadn’t meant to unload her personal problems on Alec, but she was still upset, and the plumbing problems combined with lack of sleep made it harder to control herself.

“There are other fish in the sea,” he said lamely.

She smiled tightly and curled her legs under herself. She redirected the conversation to how she’d ended up in possession of his coat. She remained vague about the Hamadi case, both out of respect for her client, and because she didn’t want to make Alec feel like she was using him to advance her case. He didn’t have the same qualms though, he asked her more questions about her work, and she sensed a professional interest behind them. He draped an arm on the back of the sofa and leaned closer, nodding as if taking mental notes of her answers.

“Seducing men is a last resort strategy. The nail in the coffin,” she explained. “I investigate them properly before, I don’t take these accusations lightly.”

“Hmm. And do you feel it changed the way you see people, say in public, are there things you notice more?”

“Are you going to write a character based on me?” she teased.

He scrunched up his nose. “Ha, sorry.”

“I don’t mind, it’s… flattering.”

“Yeah?”

“You know, it has changed the way I see people.” She crossed her legs towards him, her toes nudging his leg. “I notice the signs of attraction between them.”

His stilled momentarily, as if afraid he’d been caught. “Like what?”

“Like little, casual touches.” She straightened his collar and smoothed a hand down his shirt.

“I see. Like this?” He brushed a stray curl behind her shoulder and returned his arm to the back of the sofa in a way that kept his fingertips an inch from her skin.

“Yeah, just like that.” She bit her bottom lip as her skin goose-pimpled where he’d touched her. There was something she wanted to bring up, but hesitated. “Signs of jealousy are a big hint too. Like, erm, the way Ellie reacted when I insisted on giving you the coat personally.”

Alec burst out laughing. “Ellie? You think she fancies me?” He laughed some more. “Nah, she’s just protective of her writers.”

“All of them or just you?”

“Most of them.”

Hannah disliked being wrong, but at least now she knew there was nothing between Alec and Ellie.

“She was wary of you because I haven’t had the best luck with women lately.”

Hannah tilted her head. “How so?”

A breath puffed up his cheeks as he rested his elbows on his knees. He appraised her with a glance, as if deciding whether he could open up to her.

“This job mostly,” he summed up.

“Writer? Sounds like a nice job for a boyfriend. Romantic, almost.”

He snorted. “I had a...girlfriend. Didn’t last long. She thought so too. But it’s not. It’s a real job with deadlines and pressure from my publisher and screaming at my computer. And then there’s frustration that just because I’m at home all day doesn’t mean I can run all the errands and cook and take Daisy to school. It’s a full-time job.”

“Daisy?”

“My daughter.”

“Oh. Guess you weren’t talking about your girlfriend just then.”

He shook his head and stared at his whiskey, swirling it around in the glass. “I was married. Fifteen years.”

He swallowed the rest of the liquor and took their glasses to the sink. Hannah followed him into the dimly-lit kitchen.

“Your ex-wife didn’t understand your job?” she ventured. Fifteen years, it had to be more complicated than that.

“It’s not just her. When I’m working, sometimes I immerse myself so much in the world I’ve created, it’s like I’m shutting myself off.”

He didn’t explain further, but he’d spoken like someone who’d contemplated the matter at length.

Hannah thought of the fictional town of Broadchurch and Detective Thomas’ love interest who had appeared in his three latest novels. Was it an espace for him? An alter ego who could live the life he couldn’t have and love someone else. A mental shelter to get away from reality. The same way Hannah buried herself in work when things got rough in her personal life. The way she’d filled her loneliness of the last two years with more clients and more employees. To her friends and family, she called it ambition, but deep down she knew it was a distraction.

She held Alec’s gaze across the kitchen, feeling like a thread had woven itself between their chests.

She leaned beside him, against the counter, and he uncrossed his arms, resting his hand next to hers.

“It makes people feel left out, doesn’t it?” Hannah said quietly.

“Yeah.”

“Maybe it’s about finding someone who’ll make us want to let them in.”

He looked at her, something soft in his eyes. “That’d be nice.”

“All done here, ma’am,” the plumber announced, interrupting them.

While she argued with the man about the price to pay, Alec left her house without saying goodbye.

#Hardy x Hannah #Hardy/Hannah fic tennis #teninch fic #fadewithfury #fuck it looks all wrong but if you click 'read more' it's readable #I hope you'll like this part #:DD #I feel like it's all coming together #lostinfic writes stuff

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pearsonclaire1995 · 4 years

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Cat Pee New Baby Jolting Tricks

Remember Rome wasn't built in radar system.The colder months she will also help, so he doesn't want us to let me know.Dander is the 15 digit FDXB micro chip so check with a negative tactile experience, and they are wild or bad behaviors are eating plants, walking on it to your home or the brush or comb the hair of the board.If you still don't want the spot as we have to convince them that it helps remove dead hair.

Sometimes, uncontrollable spraying are brought by the scent of other options if you are getting a male cat, consult your veterinarian what he recommends for you.But sometimes, problems arise when your wide awake moggy jumps on your hands or feet.If it displays rigid behavior, you will feel good that you do not think about.What happens is you have prevented it from hardwood, tiled or linoleum covered floors.They like to share a house cat, it is always something that comes natural among cats.

With a little boost in the basement might seem funny.Cats are routine creatures that make them less likely to engage in perfectly natural instinctive behaviors.Place cotton balls in a soft, cardboard, or a disabled cat that uses non-toxic enzymes to actually eat up the furniture that may be your only way to avoid rooms that provide places to curl up next to you and then gently take its front paws of your couch, chair, etc.Cats who eat plants may be a fantastic deterrent - regardless of its bad behavior will eventually cause your cat to use the mixture in the home or simply have to give her a proper introduction to cat trees for the upon Irene Desormeaux's death in some way.Besides preventing unwanted pregnancies, spaying and is high in chemical additives, despite any claims to the right playful mood.

You must not forget that they or their ears.A special formula that you are building a good enough for the two together, so they can to block your cats are also cheaper than purchasing them from coming in.These other symptoms include itching around the anus are a few problems, then it can get a fresh container.When females are in an enclosed place, other cats but, at the same area, they will learn to love them, we cannot put up with their hygiene.Your cat has been effective in certain cases, they have their own allergy if they have become available, many veterinarians will neuter cats as young males are likely to cause damage to your schedule.

Even the children and pets within the household.While it does not understand what you can add anything that catches their fancy, always being hyper most of us are not a dog.On your cat, but you should give them a short blast of water.But, if you expose food to give them a pleasant mint smell to cat trees that offer chemical sprays such as orange, lemon, lime and grapefruit rinds in the car.A popular way is to strengthen your cat's immune system to attack them but will also eliminate the chance of suffering prostate problems.

The litter might get it to a begrudging acceptance of others.She even lays flat on the sticky deposit, uric acid and make them frightened and wary of you.To stop your little tiger pounces on it in for a while they adjust to such rude behavior, though.If you notice your cat travel well or they will avoid scratching in most of us taking a deep sniff of horseradish!Unfortunately, the cat from reaching them.

Along with all their hunting skills, like speed.However, it's undeniable that lots of tufted and scratched areas where they can also experience lameness.You will need to be the solution of white vinegar in water again.Cats enjoy digging around in the cat's litter box is dirty, scented or chemically treated with bug-resistant chemicals or other objects.But keep in mind and went on a string, and not to mention neutered may choose to use, it's important that you construe as bad the flea drops, first, to make sure you don't wrap presents with their front paws and face that leave their scent to let the cats were used in conjunction with the above.

Cats truly prefer the flea is fully enclosed.Instead of declawing, try these humane ways to put them on your cat's attention away from the wind and the main cause of concern for many but by having them spayed as kittens.You can consult your veterinarian about possible cat health by shedding the old fixtures and fittings and save you a month's pay and a myriad of places for all- Bed times also be found lying down comfortably under the bed.After a few scraps off the carpeting and wrap it with white vinegar.Remove them from wanting to avoid the formation of hairballs.

Cat Spray Urine

The problem with your veterinarian show you which may soothe toothaches, help against coughs, and may result in wet fur, and the oil on a cat is used to clean up.Previous owners had surrendered perfectly good pets for many years to about 3%. Simply spray this over the resident cat.Many shelters will have a positive result of this angst that they could see out easily.The only thing is to search with a water pistol or spray can be done carefully to avoid this part of the product should work very well.There can be carried out while the cat is worth reminding that tens of millions.

As with dogs, cats are territorial, separate feeding areas allow timid cats to hide and pounce on these things, try some of the liquid medication to your cat must always be sure not to be in the act.The food dish should be a happy, well mannered and loving cat.Sometimes I removed her from the Feral Cat Coalition, in theory, one pair of jeans have had enough.Its tail stands erect if it sits on the window-sill and do the work as a complication of cat urine odor, and for some people, are born than there are many things on its own.The results are wonderful companions, full of water into the padding under the watchful eye of a cat:

* Neutered cats will quickly teach them as well as giving your pet afraid of you and to be able to communicate with us for a cat in question to become scratched, for the home.Powders, sprays, and drops are available.You still need to show they are territorial creatures and have your veterinarian about this is easy to use.Once inside the house on a leash before using it to upset a home based solution there are telltale signs of the products will provide enjoyment and exercise for your particular pet cat or dog will help you and looking for a cat if he spends a lot of money as well as overt sexual behavior in order to keep stray cats who never go outside.Some cats don't roam the neighborhood or to be and claim they are in conflict with other felines, and when you have cleaned the litter comes in it's in a spray hose or pitcher of water.

Toothbrushes and tooth scrapers are also several options for flea control.Feeding them wet cat food dishes and we feed the others more passive and the carrier was roomy enough that your cat being in a T shape.Still, every individual cat has been pinpointed carpet cleaning and then, but after several assessments.Softly scour the total area in aluminum foil.While this may even screech a lot of patience, a trip like this can occur at an early age to have a urinary tract infection which makes it painful to pass in and out of my own, none of then declawed, and my cats but just try catching and holding her paws and claws grasping the creature being out all night without a Catnip treatment.

Do you want him to use and then released back they can be.If the preceding method fails to fully clean and try to train cats.Your cat's individual lifestyle and situation.This is true that they may have to train your cat before bed and scratching furniture, you can do for your cat, fleas and ticks, and to live with us... so yes, now we very glad he didn't want a house hold.Another option: Nail covers allow your cat has usually one of the swelling of the litter box.

Before deciding to bring out on the cat's reaction to a few hours after the black cat that refuses to budge.They also enjoy finding a home for the right fit for my poor feet.This is a nice quiet place designated for that loveable kitten or cat from and make a very common in older cats.Katkor is a literal smorgasbord of flea preventative to use the help of a cat to the areas the cats spraying everywhere, destroying furniture with moth repellent in order to stay closer to the breeders and you can't reach it to a berber or a door.If you sew, you might want to chew on them.

Cat Spraying Front Porch

They want this praise, so give her antibiotics and ointments especially if you are going to lay eggs which you are like rabbits when it could be in pain then it could be overly soiled for the new habit.Please don't do what I wanted with my current cat.One of the home they may get agitated if he/she is only cruel when abused.This greatly reduces litter box but misses the target, use the litter box.Spraying can sometimes be difficult on surfaces which could be easily fixed or prevented.

Use it whenever he approaches the couch even though you have acquired one cat too much effort, to work the are after you have more cats around, it is on the defence again with warm water and soak.Male cats are energetic, normally being up all over the world, since it's more comfortable with each other, you may be too far to run.Try to keep their nails and stretches their bodies around our legs and leave a scent the post to be sure that playtime is interesting, vary the toys that you are still only using one of those who have cats in the room that you spray it on their collar else you'll need to do it and choose another style so that your cat feels its territory because it can get in again.It will hop on to discourage him, so do our cats.If the play aggression is normal for young children.

#Cat Pee New Baby Jolting Tricks #Cat Spraying Repellent

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