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cottoncandyjester · 3 years

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Yandere ocs

So I figured I should show them off..and make stories for them cause this idea won't escape my mind no matter what. Please be gentle on them

All artwork is made on picrew I don't own any of it

As far as they go I'm accepting request, questions for the characters to answer and just questions about them and if you just wanna talk to them you can via ask

Warning: contains both sfw and nsfw headcanons..also these boys are yanderes so they are kinda toxic

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Theodore,21

Gentle giant

I'm not kidding he's 6'3"

Half japanese half american

Is a college student studying to be a doctor

Just the sweetest sweetheart

He comes across as ditzy though

He is the mom of any friend group

Will spoil his darling with affection and love

Best hubby vibes for sure

Works himself to death to provide for you both

Will give you all the headpats

"you're so sweet, a perfect angel"

Got his scar from his childhood

Loves sweets

Likes to make you lunch shaped as animals

Wholesome boy

Will never hurt you

Can be strict about self care

But completely forgets about his own self-care

Works so hard to please you

Makes sure you are never sad or anything

As far as his yandere side

He isn't the type to get violent but is definitely the emotional manipulation type

Will make his darling seem absolutely insane

"sweetie, you shouldn't leave be logical here"

He will make his darling question their own decision making

In his eyes you are too fragile for the outside world

Listen to him, he is only trying to protect you

Doesn't like it when you fight him

Prefers a sweet darling but if you are a hothead he'll love you just as much...though your fighting and struggling will be a challenge

Will drug you if that's what it takes to keep you calm

"Just listen to me, okay? Why would you ever need to think or make your own choices when you have me?"

Definitely has a low sex drive more of a cuddler

But when he wants it he's such a gentleman about it

Will seduce you with a nice meal first before asking to make love

He will never force you to though cause he knows what that feels like

Can spend hours kissing you

Definitely has a kink for purity

If you act super innocent he just can't help but pull you into his lap and love up on you

Doesn't do any feral sex unless you've pushed him past his breaking point.

Is a switch so if you want to top him he'll allow it but he is far more comfortable being the dom

Hikaru, 21

Young and famous model

Full japanese

Comes from a family full of actors

Flamboyant as hell will actually crossdress if he wants to cause fuck gender roles

Monster Dick energy

He comes across as loud and hyper

Seems super sweet and bubbly

Loves to dress up his darling in cute clothes and spoil them when they are well behaved

"look at my adorable baby! Oh you're such a cutie!"

Is a strawberry milk boba drinker(*cough* like me *cough*)

Will take you on shopping dates if you are good

Is the type to flaunt his credit cards

Is actually a degrading king

He isn't the nicest yandere

Will kill an entire army if he has to

Will degrade the absolute hell out of his darling to break your self esteem and self worth

"baby, who else will want you? Honestly darling do you think anyone else actually cares about someone as worthless as you?"

Kinky as fuck

Has a bad temper

Don't piss him off or he will hurt you

"why would you ever need to leave! The only one who cares about you is me! Everyone else will just use you and throw you away!"

Is the type to try and make his darling as clingy as possible

Wants a housewife type darling no matter the gender

Wants to come home to an obedient lover ready to give him a kiss, dinner, and a BJ

Always wants to love up on you and have you in his arms

Will be grouchy if he sees you getting too confident in your looks

He fears that if you have too much self confidence you're going to leave him

"what are you wearing? It's absolutely hideous. Hmm? I bought that? Huh you must have looked cute in it then but right now you kinda look like a pig"

All in all he's a brat

If you try and dom him he will absolutely fight back and it will lead to some feral sex

Axis, 18

100% blind

full japanese

Despite not being able to see he doesn't need a cane or anything

Though he likes it when you offer to hold his hand in public

Works at home as an artist

Is really good at it and had some of his work in museums

Like spicy foods

Dumbass

Like super dumb

"hey, babe is tomato sauce a smoothie? Or maybe it's like jelly..but made out of like tomatoes"

Is basically a puppy

Can't keep his hands off you

Is always kissing and loving you

Praise giving king

Has hightened senses so he definitely remembers your smell and how you walk

Always has to be with you

Never leave

Never

He can't handle it

Is the exact opposite of hikaru

Makes it seem like he will actually die without you

"don't leave! Please! I'm helpless without you! [Y/n]! Don't leave me by myself!"

Will make you quit your job

Will make you move in with him

Acts pathetic when you even mention leaving

Hugs your leg and sobs hard

Has fake fallen many times to get you to think he truly is helpless without you

Will have a screaming tantrum if you walk out the door

Just painful screams and sobs while he claws his own face and body out of absolute insanity

Will keep doing that until you come back to him

"s-see, I'm helpless without you. I'll die without you, I need you so please..stay with me forever"

As far as sex..

He is definitely cries during it

Loves you so much that he is just sobbing while fucking you cause you feel so good and he loves you and-

Is like a dog in heat

Loves just feeling all over your body

Sex with him usually lasts many rounds and involves him humping you to death while he sobs and drools all over you

Will sub for you if you want him to

Will honestly do anything you want as long as you are touching him

Prince, 24

Horny 24/7

Full Korean but moved to Japan shortly after birth

Gained his name out of a magazine..thanks mom and dad

Works as a bartender

Usually a one night stand kind of guy but with you it's different

Loves sloppy kisses and cuddles

Bad boy

Aka he pretends to be a bad boy but is actually a softie who loves dogs and long walks on the beach

Goofy as hell

Loves to make you laugh

He isn't used to having a real relationship so be easy on him

Doesn't like restricting you and lets you do basically anything you want

Of course you belong to him though so no doing crazy things

Like to take you to work with him and gives you free drinks

Definitely has a fan girl club

The word sex escapes his mouth every three seconds

Sex with him is usually amazing

He's knows exactly what he's doing

As long as you love him it's all good

The moment you try to break up with him or distance yourself he loses it

"huh? Huh huh huh huh?! You're kidding yeah?! Stop joking around"

Gets hella paranoid and locks you in his house while pacing around not sure what to do

Will kill for you like absolutely will slaughter someone if they get too close to you

He changes so dramatically it's hard to see him as the same laid back flirty guy

He gets tense and panicked

"you can't leave okay?! Don't even try to ask!"

Will start to calm down if he sees you are accepting your fate

Thinks sex will solve his problems

"you just need to see how much of a man I am yeah?! Then you'll stay right?! Of course you will!"

Spirals out of control

You belong to him in his eyes so you can't ever leave

Clearly has abandonment issues

Will try to do whatever he can to make you happy though

Want it and he will get it

just stay with him and he will be okay

Will try and do whatever he can to make you just as obsessed with him as he is for you

Clearly doesn't have experience in loving someone

He's not used to wanting someone to stay with him so he takes drastic measures to assure you never leave

Even tries getting you pregnant or making you disabled to make you make no choice but to stay

Yuki, 21

Not picking favorites buuut-

Sleepy boy

Oddly enough is super athletic and strong..despite not working out

Half japanese half american

Responds with sounds or very few words

Forked tongue- not given to him by choice

Owns a tattoo and piercing shop

Despite this he doesn't own any tattoos

Loves to put his head on your lap or stomach

Prefers chubbier lovers but honestly will love you regardless

Will sleep the entire day without eating if you let him

Doesn't like speaking but if he has to he will

Hates any sort of loud noise, has sensitive senses

Is pretty lazy but if he has to do it he will.. though he will make random grunts and grumbles the entire time while pouting

More of a cat than a person

Quite moody

Only you're allowed to touch him

Anyone else who does he'll glare at and act cold towards

Likes to hug you from behind and lean against you no matter your height

If you're shorter than him expect him to put his chin on your head

If you are taller he's nuzzling his face in your back and taking in your smell

Can't cook to save his life

Almost burnt the house down cause he fell asleep while cooking

It's fine cause he eats microwave dinners and snacks from the convience store

Low sex drive

The king of sleepy sex

Usually all sex with him is slow,teasing and just filled with sleepy praise and compliments

Unless he's jealous or stressed then it's just rough fucking

Doesn't really act like a yandere at all.. buuut-

Honestly thought you two were dating this whole time

What do you mean you two aren't a couple

No no sweetheart you two were dating the moment he laid eyes on you

If you try to break this fantasy he will shut it down

"we're dating."

Try and say no and he will not be able to handle it

All his delusions keep him from breaking down but if you absolutely say that you two aren't dating he will snap

"stop talking, we are dating. So stop lying"

Doesn't like the thought of kidnapping but he will do it if he must

Will even work from home if he has to

He isn't really a violent type so he won't kill for you but he will absolutely spread lies and use blackmail to get what he wants

All your friends and family think that you eloped with him and never want to see them again

It's better for you both if you just play along with his games

Will definitely tattoo his name on you

He won't ever gag you cause he likes to hear your voice but if you try to scream he honestly won't know what to do

The loudness makes him tear up and he just covers your mouth with your hands begging you to stop

"It hurt. Too Loud. Please."

He just wants to love you he doesn't see what he's doing wrong

He just wants to be with you forever so be good and don't fight him

Is definitely the stalker and stealing clothes type

Will make a nest of all your things that smell like you and he'll just lay in it being in absolute peace

Has scared any and all potential lovers away

Mostly through blackmail

He is easily jealous but pretends not to be

As soon as you walk into the house he is there to smell you to see if you smell different

If you do you are taking a shower with him immediately

If not then yay cool cuddles and kisses

#yandere imagines #yandere ocs #yandere #yandere asks #oc x reader

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foramomentonly · 3 years

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Stoner Michael Ficlet

This is all the fault of @skinsharpenedteeth and that one picture of Vlamis in his own merch, looking like everyone’s stoner brother. Which is absolutely teen Alex’s type.

Link to AO3

Alex follows Rosa and her new, maybe-definitely crush Isobel Evans into the Evans’s impressive, Southwest Contemporary home, scowling. The promise of a lazy afternoon in the cool, dark shadows of the turquoise mines with his favorite disaffected friend had convinced Alex to call in to work, but by the time he made it to the Crashdown, Isobel and Rosa were huddled together at the counter, whispering and laughing, and making plans to “drop by” Isobel’s so Rosa could borrow some DVD, and Alex had officially become a third wheel.

The girls head into the kitchen for snacks—a quick stop having already turned into a movie marathon—and Alex wanders down a long, bright hallway, idly searching for a bathroom. He passes several closed doors marked with the personalized touches of private spaces: brightly colored floral decals and a freshly-drawn heart made of a chaotic labyrinth of looping lines Alex recognizes as Rosa’s work decorate Isobel’s bright bedroom door, while the one across the hall hosts a neat collage of handwritten quotations from authors Alex didn’t think anyone his age read absent the threat of a failing grade. The final door on the left, at the end of the hall, is cracked open, the room dark, but Alex can hear Audioslave playing at a low volume inside, and when he inhales he catches the unmistakable stench of bad weed on the air.

Alex pushes the door slowly open with a finger and steps inside, glancing around the dark, messy room filled with what looks like worn, secondhand furniture, stacked textbooks and notepads in every corner, and a pristine drafting desk with a sleek, overhead lamp attached, an outlier in the otherwise typical teenage boy space. There’s sunlight streaming in via a sliding door in the corner of the room, and Alex steps through it onto a small side patio shaded by a flat stucco roof and shielded from view by the outward jut of the house where it extends farther into the yard on both sides. On the patio to Alex’s left is a small, wrought iron table and a cheap, plastic deck chair, and on that chair is a boy.

When Alex had stepped out onto the patio, the boy had turned his head slowly, appraising Alex with lazy eyes, but he otherwise hadn’t moved. He’s slouched low in the chair, one leg slung open, knee up and resting against the arm of the chair. His head lolls against the slope of the chair’s back, and his feet are bare, the rest of him covered head to toe in black, from the beanie pulled low over his messy curls to his soft, faded sweatshirt and sweatpants. As Alex watches him, he brings his right hand up to his lips and takes a slow drag of the joint pinched between his thumb and forefinger.

“That smells like shit,” Alex says, and the boy huffs a laugh.

“Tastes like shit,” he answers easily in a low voice, licking his lips and casting an inquisitive glance Alex’s way. “So, what are you doing here, Alex Manes? You don’t seem like Isobel’s usual type.”

“Rosa Ortecho dragged me here,” Alex answers, and the boy laughs in earnest this time to some private joke.

“She’s definitely my sister’s type,” he says, whistling low, and a lightbulb goes off in Alex’s head.

Isobel Evans has two brothers, unofficially. Max Evans, keeper of the pretentious quotations, a shy, boy-next-door type with heart eyes the size of Texas for Alex’s other favorite Ortecho sister, Liz; and Michael Guerin, the genius stoner Max and Isobel practically forced their parents to take in when they found out he was sleeping in his truck. As a deeply mediocre student, Alex isn’t in any of Guerin’s AP classes, and the kid is so quiet he slips under most people’s radars, Alex assumes by design. But as Alex looks at him now, light, honey eyes and long lashes, soft curls around the edge of his hat and broad hands with long fingers, a perfectly crooked nose and light casting dramatic shadows across his cheekbones, Alex wonders if this is the first time he’s actually seeing Michael Guerin. Discovering, seeing, and losing his breath as Michael stares right back, a suggestive smile across his lips and his tongue pushing against the inside of his cheek.

“You, uh, you want some?” Michael asks, holding up the small joint, and Alex nods, stretches out his hand so Michael can pass it over.

Instead, Michael finally moves his body, shifting to spread himself open in the chair and arching his long neck, tilting his head farther back and pushing his beanie lower on his brow.

“Come on, then,” he offers softly, and brings the joint to his lips again, pulling smoke into his lungs and holding it in his mouth.

Alex should call bullshit, should tell Michael to fuck off and take Rosa’s keys from her backpack, let Isobel drive her home; but Michael’s eyes are soft and a little hopeful, and he doesn’t reach for Alex or make any sort of move to touch him. So Alex steps in front of Michael and slides into his lap, straddling him, and braces himself with both hands planted against the back of the chair on either side of Michael’s head. He leans in close, close enough to smell the citrus scent of Michael’s soap underneath the haze of weed, and drops his mouth open. Michael parts his lips and blows thick smoke in a steady stream into Alex’s mouth, the tip of his tongue dancing hesitantly across Alex’s bottom lip. It could be an accident, but they both know it isn’t.

Alex sucks the dank, foul-tasting smoke into his mouth, lets it sit heavy on his tongue and coat the roof of his mouth, and when his head begins to feel light on his shoulders, pleasantly untethered, he drops it back and releases the smoke into the air above him, his hands sliding onto Michael’s shoulders absent-mindedly, fingers finding their way under Michael’s beanie to wrap around the silky curls trapped beneath. Michael finally walks his fingertips up Alex’s thighs and curls his broad palms around his hips, pulling Alex closer with a soft whine. The joint is already snuffed out against the wire table and discarded at their feet.

“So,” Alex breathes, rocking subtly against Michael’s cock as he feels it fatten underneath him, “I’m more your type, huh?”

Michael grins around a soft groan, digging his fingers into the flesh above Alex’s ass.

“I’ve got good taste,” he murmurs, one hand coming up to wrap gently around Alex’s neck, guiding his mouth towards Michael’s parted lips.

Alex smiles.

“In guys, maybe,” he replies. “Not weed.”

Michael is still laughing when Alex finally seals his mouth over Michael’s, kissing him quiet.

#malex #malex fic #roswell nm #alex manes #michael guerin #rosa ortecho #isobel evans #high school au #teen malex #cw: weed #rnm fic

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honeypwark · 4 years

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[ You’re Hot ]

↳ Showcase: Star in US

↳ Kiryoung gets checked out by her members. She nearly drowns. She almost gets kidnapped.

m.list

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

“Alright, let’s go!” Kai says excitedly once he’s rid himself of his tee shirt.

Soobin catches him around the waist and stops him from running straight into the ocean.

“Sunscreen first,” the leader says, pushing a bottle of spray-on sunscreen in his hands.

Kiryoung sets up one of the two large umbrellas they brought with them to the beach while Taehyun finishes up with the other. She double checks that it won’t fall over before pulling her shirt off. She quickly takes off her shorts as well, grabbing another bottle of sunscreen and walking a few steps away to apply it.

Kiryoung catches Taehyun’s attention as she goes to spray herself with sunscreen.

“Why is Kiryoung like... hot?” he says.

Confused, the other boys look at Kiryoung and have the same realization. She wears a floral patterned two piece swimsuit, the bottoms high waisted and the top styled with ruffles. Her stomach is toned as well as her legs. Her hair falls prettily around her shoulders when she lets it back down after putting sunscreen on her neck.

She walks back over to them and looks at them confusedly, “What?”

“Kiko, you’re hot,” Kai says bluntly.

Kiryoung flushes almost immediately, “Um... thank you?”

“Kai, shut up, you’re literally a child,” Soobin says.

“He’s not wrong,” Yeonjun adds.

“Don’t encourage him!” Soobin scolds.

“Hyung, you were looking at her, too,” Taehyun says.

“Because I was confused why you all were watching her!” Soobin protests.

Yeonjun pats Soobin’s shoulder, “Whatever helps you sleep at night, buddy.”

Kiryoung laughs awkwardly, “Okay, let’s go swimming now haha woohoo yeah swimming.”

Lucky for her, the boys drop the subject of her being hot and race each other to the water. Kiryoung tries and fails to keep up, reaching the ocean after they’ve all splashed in. Kiryoung wades out to them, arms retracting up to her chest at the chilly temperature of the water.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

“Okay, if you don’t play you lose, rock paper scissors!” Taehyun calls.

Just as she puts her hand up as a rock, a wave crashes into Kiryoung and sends her underwater. She kicks off the bottom and back up to the surface, hand still out as a rock.

“Wow, that sucks, you lost, Kiko,” Yeonjun says. “Looks like you have to go buy food.”

Seeing how much Kiryoung is struggling, Soobin grabs her arm and lets her use him as support. She wipes her eyes and sees all five boys holding out paper.

Does she doubt that they all actually put out paper before she almost drowned? Very much so, yes. Does she mind getting a break from attempting to stay afloat while her five giant friends can stand on the sea floor? Very much she does not.

“Fine.”

Kiryoung gets a mouthful of saltwater and spits it out.

Coughing, she says, “I’m gonna go do that.”

Kiryoung starts doggie paddling toward the shore, eventually making it onto dry land. After drying herself off briefly, she grabs her wallet and walks down the beach toward the snack shack. She orders six slices of pizza and six sodas, balancing them all in her arms carefully as she walks back to her group’s spot.

The boys are already waiting for her on their respective towels. They cheer obnoxiously as she gets closer to them. After eating the boys head back out but Kiryoung stays on the beach, tired from trying not to die via drowning.

She situates her towel under an umbrella so she can lay down in the shade. She lays there comfortably for about twenty minutes, just enjoying the warm day.

“You look bored.”

Kiryoung opens her eyes as someone speaks to her in English. She sees that a man has approached her, hair swept back and face cleanly shaven. He’s very tall, Kiryoung can tell even as he crouches down beside her.

“No, just enjoying the day,” she says and sits up.

“I could help you enjoy it a little better,” he says.

“How?”

Kiryoung doesn’t understand why this man has approached her. Does he want to sell her something?

“Well, there’s this motel just up the road that we can get a room at. Just the two of us.”

Kiryoung finally understands what this man means, having been confused just moments before due to not being a native English speaker and not being used to men approaching her out of nowhere.

“Oh, no, thank you,” she says quickly.

“Come on, little thing. You got anything better to do?”

When he grabs her arm, Kiryoung can feel her fight or flight response kick in. Apparently she’s unable to do either.

“Please don’t touch me,” she asks politely.

“Don’t be a bitch, I’m offering you a good time. Come on.”

“No no no no no no.”

She feels as if all the English vocabulary she’s every learned has been stripped from her mind, leaving her helpless to talk her way out.

The man roughly pulls her to her feet and she realizes how bad of a situation she’s in. This man is much stronger than her and significantly taller; she has no chance of fighting her way out either.

“Please let go of me,” she pleads, trying to drag her feet in the sand without falling as the man pulls her.

“HEY!”

Kiryoung and the man look behind them to see all five of Kiryoung’s members running toward them. Soobin grabs the man’s arm and makes him let go of Kiryoung. Beomgyu tugs Kiryoung away from the man, taken aback when she immediately hides in his chest. Fear and adrenaline still course through her and she doesn’t much care how pathetic she must look.

“What’s your problem?” the man growls at Soobin

Soobin doesn’t speak English, but he still strings together, “You don’t touch my friend.”

“She’s just a slut anyway, hanging around a bunch of dudes.”

Yeonjun steps up beside Soobin, “Hey, why don’t you back off?”

The man looks Yeonjun up and down, “You gonna make me?”

“There’s five of us and one of you, how do you think this is gonna end?”

Yeonjun and Soobin continue to stare the man down. Taehyun and Kai are just slightly behind the two older boys, the four making a wall between the man and Kiryoung, who is still being held by Beomgyu.

After what feels like an eternity, the man scoffs, “Tourists.”

He turns and walks away in a huff.

Beomgyu looks down at Kiryoung without removing his arms from around her.

“Are you okay?” he asks her softly.

“Yes,” she whispers.

It’s obvious she’s lying due to the way she’s visibly trembling. Beomgyu keeps an arm around Kiryoung as they make their way back to their belongings. The sun has began to set now, oranges and pinks beginning to dye the sea as the glowing orb in the sky sinks closer and closer to the horizon.

Kiryoung sits on her towel gently, finding her shirt and pulling it on over her swimsuit. She takes a drink of water and sighs, letting her terror from before melt away.

“Better?” Soobin asks.

She nods.

“Do you believe us when we say you’re hot now?” Yeonjun asks.

Taehyun throws sand at him but Kiryoung laughs. The boys’ worry lifts as they hear that.

“You guys can go back out if you want,” Kiryoung she’s.

“I’ll stay here.”

“Someone should stay with you.”

“I’ll keep you company.”

“We’re not going to leave you alone again.”

Taehyun, Beomgyu, Yeonjun, and Kai look at one another then away awkwardly. Their care for their female member, normally hidden behind teasing and playful bullying, rears its head as they all offer to stay with her simultaneously.

Kiryoung can’t help but smile at that.

“I’ll stay, you all can go,” Soobin says.

The other four boys start to get to their feet slowly, reapplying sunscreen before they go.

“I told you that you’re hot, I just didn’t think someone would try to kidnap you because of it,” Kai says as they start toward the water.

Kiryoung laughs with them and the four boys run off to meet the waves. Soobin’s forced laughter doesn’t fade as quickly as Kiryoung’s real laughs. He turns to look at her.

“Yeah, you’re not going anywhere by yourself for the rest of the tour.”

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cloviaglade · 3 years

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THE CRIMSON FLOWER ROUTE CORPORATE UNION AU

Yeah it came to me in a dream shared it with a friend and she said I should inflict it on the world so here we go

Warning: It's super long but I broke it up into chunks

(note not all members of the house fall into the categories listed also I'm not the best with corporate terms and positions. Also this was made for fun and isn't that serious)

The houses

The Black eagles generally were in accounting or sales. They dealt with a lot of the customers firsthand and were considered expendable

Blue lions where mostly in HR or IT

Golden deer mostly worked in maintenance and public relations.

Staff and church members are members of the board. Flayn has her position on the board despite her age because nepotism

The Seiros Co:

It's a large company that provide a large array of services and products that promote physical and emotional well-being. The company started out with good intentions but soon became a corporate monster

The company provides a host of benefits to its employees including on site housing, on site restraunts, on site pools gyms ect. They even have the best insurance on the planet. They even have horse therapy.

However they have to pay premiums on the health insurance, their rent is docted from their pay, they have to pay for on-site facilities, and those living on site are heavily encouraged to work overtime.

a lot of this is justified by cover every single health expense and days of for minor colds. Many employees seek mental health care more often than they seek physical care.

The on site living conditions vary heavily. Most are just a small white room with a single bed and a dresser. No visitors after certain hours and forget about outside visitors. However rumors are spreading that the board members have spacious luxury apartments.

The pay without all the benefits is not a wage you could live off of. But with the rent for these rooms doct from your pay you couldn't reasonably save up for different arrangements.

The strike begins:

Edelguard was finally fed up watching her team struggling. She hears constantly about how her workers are not making enough. How they have to scrape because they needed new clothes or shoes. Or worse how Petra wasn't able to support her sick grandfather

She hired a lawyer Hubert to look into information about their contracts and compare everything to labor laws. She needed to know how much of this was legal and if there was anything to be done about it.

Huberts lawfirm dealt with several lawsuits in the past. They are considered ruthless in court however media painted them out to be money hungry and demented

As expected, it was legal (mostly due to lack of regulation for these types of benefits) but really unfair, So Hubert suggested a strike. His firm would handle all the legal matters as they prepared a lawsuit and to unionize.

Edelguard was careful to organize it in private. Nothing was emailed. Nothing to tract them. Flyers were handwritten and posted in the dorms inviting members to secret meeting on slow hours.

Roles

What everyone did on the day of the strike/position they were in the office.

Black eagles

Edalguard: head of sales- she got everyone in her department and many others in different departments to simply stop working for the day when she commanded everyone to stop working via megaphone. She suck in hubert and went to a private meeting room to set up a list of demands.

Hubert: head of Vestra lawfirm- he snuck past security with the help of Edelguard. He brought a laptop and a phone with Hotspot so he could video call the rest of his attorneys from inside the conference room. Once the strike was in full swing he toured the place with Edelguard gathering evidence.

Ferdinand: senior sale manager has the highest customer satisfaction - when the strike was well underway he sent a mass email to everyone in every department including the CEO and founder herself in a very professional tone about how there is a strike. Lornez replied immediately and they when to the breakroom to enjoy tea while on the clock.

Lindhart: IT software specialist - first thing he did was turn off all the bans on websites. Everyone could go on whatever website they wanted to. He left the download blocker up and other safety precautions in place. Others could looks at memes and scroll through social media ect. He then returns to his dorm and takes a paid nap.

Caspar: manager in accounting slow but very accurate and a real team player - he hated the no pets policy with a burning passion so he let all the stray and feral cats that hang around the building in through one of the side doors. They stayed mostly on the ground floor and a few made a mess under the desks. He played with the strays with a few of his co-workers.

Bernadette: customer service rep. - she hated the calls filled with angry people. She clocked out, disconnected he phone, ran into her dorm and screamed into her pillow until calm. Once she calmed down enough she did some embroidery.

Dorothea: sales representative- has the highest upsale rate - she gets into her car and just leaves. She is still clocked in. Nobody knows where she went. Some say she met with a lover, others say she went on a binge. Nobody really knows.

Petra: bilingual sales rep. - she signed her phone off and immediately called up her family overseas. She proceeded to catch up and talk with her family for hours. She rarely got to speak with them due to the difference in timezones.

Blue lions

Dimitri: head of IT - he doesn't actually know much about IT and has little intrest in it. He got the job because his dad recommended him. With the outside website ban lifted and the lost of control of his department he frantically tried to get everything under control

Dedue: cyber security and protocol educator - although the bans are lifted he is still concerned about a cyber attack. He is frantically try to restore the ban but it seems like lindhart deleted the code.

Felix: hardware specialists - he was the one who should've been promoted into Dimitri's position and is a bit smug about how everything is falling apart in front of his boss. He bypasses the download blocker and plays minecraft on the company computer. Dimitri is too busy to notice that felix isn't helping.

Sylvain: HR rep. - he knew from the start that working conditions were shit. He was tired of trying to raise moral by doing everything but paying the employees more, giving them time off, and reasonable working hours. He went to the break room where Ferdinand and Lornez were having tea and ate a bunch of the snacks the company was reselling at super high prices then faxed a picture of his ass and balls to rhea herself as a letter of resignation.

Ashe: new hire in IT - was called down to the first floor to replace a keyboard a cat peed on. Found caspar was the reason the cats were let in. Caspar then persuaded him to play with the cats instead of shooing them out. 3 hours later he completely forgot about the strike and clocked out per usual. He completely forgot about the strike

Mercedes: head of HR - she meets with the board and discussed what to do about the strikers. They can't force them to go home since everyone striking lives on site and has every right to be there. No significant damages is being done to property. The only loss is from those not working (and a keyboard covered in cat piss and $35 worth of snacks) Mercedes is forced to find a way to get them to stop but in a way that doesn't really change anything. She leaves the meeting when it is over clocks out and returns to her modest house she calls out sick for the next couple of months.

Annette: HR rep - she tries to stop the chaos on the floor and to convince everyone to return to work. She is ignored. She wanted to ask for a megaphone to help gain attention but edelguard took the one from HR and the person with the key to one in the event closet is striking as well. She runs around in a paint trying to answer emails and settle everyone down.

Ingrid: IT helpline rep - helping Dimitri reset the ban on outside websites is above her pay grade. She at least know some of the terminology and the basics. She manages to set up a very basic blocker but it didn't block whole domains just the homepage of every website she could think of that's wasn't appropriate for work. Logging into the site allowed you to bypass the block. Ingrid feels like she will be fired for not being able to do more

Golden deer:

Claude: event planner - noticing that there was no work happening he finally decided it was time to actually do his job. He dipped into those sweet event funds and ordered as many pizza's as he could from every pizza join that could deliver. He busted out the sport balls and got employees to clear some room for flag football on the 3rd floor. He got Hilda to organize games of hide and go seek in floors 4 and 5. All games and activities were not officially approved but followed all guidelines.

Hilda: claudes assistant - organized games on the 4th and 5th floors. The cubicle although uniform made excellent hiding spaces and the food plaza just got rid of the old tables and chairs awaiting delivery of new ones so there was a ton of space to run around. Hidia had to jump between floors pretty often which was a workout all on its own but it was worth it to see everyone smile at work for once.

Lornez: head of advertising - he was tired of writing jingles and stupid commercials for the company. He wasn't aware of the strike until he got the email from Ferdinand. He offered to treat him to some tea he brought from home. They had a lovely talk and watched Sylvain stress eat. He tried to talk Sylvain out of resigning but failed.

Raphael: pizza delivery guy - he thought it was a joke at first since they never delivered pizza to the Serios Co but was persuaded by Claude. He got stopped at the front by the front desk clerk who was ordered not to allow any deliveries. Soon more pizza guys showed up and some of them where not as nice as Raphael. He eventually got in and successfully delivered his pizza.

Ignatz: accountant - he wanted no part of this and tried to work despite being on the 3rd floor. He doesn't have any PTO and is frantically trying to get his absence approved because he cannot work under these conditions. He got walled in with desks and chairs and hand to crawl his way out to try to find someone in HR to help him but found their office empty. Worst day of work ever.

Lysithia: Intern- hopes to join the advertising department - She needs this job for school credits so finding out that her boss told her to take the day off because of strike she immediately thought of her record. Lorenz assured her that she would get credit as long as he had any say in it. She played a round of hide and go seek before studying in Lornez's office

Marianne: customer service rep.- she heard the rumors and on the day of the strike she freaked out and when to have a panic attack in her car. She was on lunch technically but she took a 3 hour lunch. She came back in clocked out and decided to try that horse therapy.

Leonnie: pizza delivery guy (not nice) - she knows the customer didn't care that the order took so long to complete and was very understanding that the 30mins or less delivery time but seriously! 50 PIZZAS!! She had to stretch and press dough at top speed for like 45 mins then she burnt her hand while boxing some of the pizza's and she had to deliver all of it to this company just outside of town and now the person at the front door is insisting that the pizza was ordered by mistake oh no! Not today! You will take the pizza and you will pay for it and tip 25%.

Church

Rhea: CEO and founder - she honestly believes her practices are helping the community. She doesn't realize that she doesn't give her employees much choice. She thinks her employees are ungrateful.

Seteth: president - also believes the company is doing the best they can. He knows the dorms are small and brand but they house 78.364% of their employees and they all see a doctor at least 3 times a month. He hates that he has difficulty finding a balance between competitive prices, compensating workers, and turning a profit.

Flayn: secretary - she saw the fun going on in the 5th floor while on her lunch and thought it was organized by staff and didn't connect it as part of the strike.

Catherine: front desk - tried to turn away all the delivery drivers but more kept coming. She kept getting calls from upper management about the social media platforms and tried frantically to get in to make a statement but had little luck. She gave up when Leonnie demanded payment and let all the delivery people in.

Shamir: social media manager- she originally attended the meetings as a mole but soon learned that her fellow employees hardships. She drafted huge posts on every platform exposing the truth, changed all the passwords then took a vacation during the strike.

Hanneman: chief operational officer - he is calling and emailing the IT department about the bans every moment he can. He organized the meeting as soon as the strikers got rowdy.

Manuela: chief financial officer - although she is worried about the finances she has also been pressing about where to cut the budget first. Horse therapy is ridiculous! They own the whole ranch and are responsible for the upkeep of every horse. And all the horses are carefully hand selected and trained too. It's too much nobody uses the horse therapy because nobody has the time off to go to horse therapy!

Alois: Chairman - his title is mostly empty. He joined the strikers in a game of flag football scored a touchdown. Then went back to work as usual. Didn't check his emails about the strike since he only checks them in the morning when he first comes into work.

Gilbert: treasurer - he puts business first. Doesn't know his daughter works for the same company. Was friends with Dimitri's father. He is stressing about how the company will recover financially. He is the reason for the pay cuts so they can fund most of the benefits.

Cyrill: gopher - he gets paid minimum wage and lives on site. He considers himself lucky that he can drive the company car to go pick up office supplies from the store. He was homeless before he got a job at Seiros and feels like he is important.

Results

Since several members of the board were caught participating in strike activities the hubert and his firm counted them at strikers and used this in court.

The dorms were not considered responsible accommodations saying that prisoners in jail cells at least have their own toilet.

The news when crazy with the posts on social media. The account never replied to any dms or comments. When called they said a rogue employee posted them falsely because she was being fired.

Rhea was forced to pay a lawsuit that gave all dormitory workers an allowance of $1000 for rent for life. Even if they choose to leave the company.

Dimitri was fired for not actually having any training. Felix was promoted to the head of IT and everyone respects him.

Rhea looses her company. And most of her assets. She kept the therapy horse ranch and manages that for a living.

With the entire company now belonging to her since everyone above her resigned she made a ton of changes making the company more normal. She pays a fair livable wage to every employee. She repurposed the dorms into offices or solitary break rooms.

Huberts firm gets rebranded as a honest firm that wants to help the little guys. He later goes on to help other corporations unionize.

20 notes · View notes

kingleedo · 3 years

Text

Before The Dawn [ The Purge Game ]

Characters: Leedo/Kim Geonhak; Xion/Son Dongju; Dongmyeong/Son Dongmyeong; Seoho/Lee Seoho

Genre : Purge AU; Angst; Thriller

Word Count : 409 for teaser || 5468 in total

Triggers/Warnings : Swearing. Mentions of guns. Mentions of knives. Mentions of blood. Torture. Death. Murder. Violence. [if I didn’t mention anything that is a trigger/makes you uncomfortable, let me know. I will adjust the list.]

Taglist: @neo-shitty

21st of March, 2021 || 4:58 PM

Dongju was laying on his bed, staring at the ceiling. His twin brother was sitting by the table, loading another gun. They had a few more hours before the annual massacre would take the place. They were well prepared, it was just Dongmyeong getting his favorite guns ready. There was this particular one, on which he made small engravings for every year they made it through. Even though it was only their third year.

Ever since the Purge was introduced, their family avoided participating in this unholy event at all costs. But everything changed when the boys were left alone. The first year since their parents’ death was tough, they were forced to hide to survive. Even though they weren’t allowed to participate until they turned eighteen, they were still an easy target for other players. But as soon as they were allowed to become the hunters themselves, the game was on.

If one would ask who out of two was more into it, the answer would be Dongmyeong. Though, Dongju enjoyed it just as much. Though they had different reasons behind their liking of the event. While Dongmyeong enjoyed the thrill of seeing fear in his prey’s eyes, it was mostly about the revenge for Dongju. He hated the game, but he hated the ones playing and participating even more. Some days he even hated his twin brother and himself, but they were a team. And it was them against the world.

21st of March, 2021 || 6.15 PM

Geonhak was on his way home. He rushed to the market to get some stuff, as Seoho asked for some snacks and some other stuff for his experiments. He recently improved their safety system. They found the whole Purge event stupid and inhumane and they had no desire to participate in it. But they had to survive the night and stay alive.

Every year on this day all crimes were legal and the paramedic, police, and fire department services weren’t available. This chaos lasted for 12 hours straight, but usually, it felt like it lasted way longer.

Geonhak was relaxed, as he still had enough time until the start of the event. He sent Seoho a message, letting his roommate know that he was on his way home and he would make it in time. He didn’t want Seoho to worry, so he promised he will update him throughout his way home.

Once in the market, he called Seoho via face time, as he didn’t know what snacks the other wanted. Not that he cared, but listening to Seoho’s nagging for the next 12 hours sounded even worse than the Purge itself. So, he wanted to be sure he got everything the other needed and wanted.

As he was done with his shopping, he wished a cashier a calm night or a fun game and left, heading toward their apartment block. On his way he saw some guys already running around in masks, probably getting ready for the game. Some folks used to go out earlier just to meet with their friends or other gangs, so it was nothing strange. He sent another message to Seoho, letting him know that he left the shop and was heading home now. Their apartment block wasn’t that close, but he decided it would be faster to take a walk. As waiting for the bus would probably take longer. The sun was already setting and the sky was getting darker with each passing minute. He enjoyed the chilly breeze of March, if not for the stupid event, he would offer Seoho to have dinner outside.

21st of March, 2021 || 6.50 PM

He had a few blocks left and he would be home; when suddenly he heard someone calling for help. He hesitated whether or not he should check up on the person calling, as he was running out of time before the siren would go off. In the end, he decided he can’t ignore the pleading cries and he turned into the dark alleyway, looking for the one who was asking for help. It took him a few minutes to realize that there was a guy behind the dumpster. He was sitting on the floor, holding onto his leg that was bleeding.

“Hey, you alright?” He asked as he kneeled next to the boy.

“No... I-I was going some when someone stabbed me in the leg. I’m scared I won’t make it home in time.” The guy whined and looked up at Geonhak.

“Hey, I know you.” Geonhak’s eyes widened when he realized that the guy was his neighbor. “Can you stand up? I will help you get home.” He grabbed the other’s waist, ready to help him get up. However, the other didn’t seem to be able to bend his knee, which made it difficult to stand up.

The younger boy let out another cry, as he tried to get up one more time. Geonhak put his bag on the floor, so he could support the other better. He put one of the boy’s arms on his shoulder, as he grabbed his waist and pulled him closer. Finally, the hurt guy was on his knees. Geonhak grabbed his bag, before once again hugging the other’s waist for better support.

“We won’t make it…” The younger boy stopped, looking up at Geonhak.

“Come on, don’t say that. The street seems to be calm and our apartments are around the corner. We can make it.” He nodded, reassuring the other.

“You won’t make it…” Dongju whispered, right as the siren echoed in the city. Geonhak was about to say that they still can make it to the apartment and hide, but his mouth fell open when the other took out a gun from his back pocket.

“I- What is this about?” Geonhak stared at the boy who was pointing a gun at him. He then realized some other guys walk out of the dark corners, all holding various weapons. One of the boys approached Dongju with a creepy smile.

“Good job, brother.” He grinned even wider, patting the other’s shoulder. “It’s been a while since I wanted to play with our strong Geonhak.”

“That’s cheating! What the hell is on your mind, freak!” He shouted. He honestly was lost. He wondered if there was a chance he could run away from them, but the alleyway was too long and most of them had guns. They could kill him in a matter of seconds. Fighting them was useless, too. He was alone against at least 7 other men.

“Go on, shoot me. Isn’t it what you got me here for?” He stared at Dongju, whose gun was still pointed at him.

“No.” Dongmyeong approached Geonhak, walking to him from behind so that he can whisper into the other’s ear. “I want to play with you. Would you mind joining us?” He caressed Geonhak’s cheek.

“Pff, never!” Geonhak scoffed, as he pushed Dongmyeong’s hand away. “Don’t touch me. I’d rather you kill me right here and right now than run around killing innocent people.”

“No one is innocent, my dear Geoonhakkie.” Dongmyeong walked over to Dongju, now standing in front of Geonhak. They both were wearing all black. A long black coat and the black turtle neck made Dongmyeong look like a villain. The coat was unbuttoned and his figure seemed way bigger, as he stuffed both his hands into his pockets. Dongju on the other hand was wearing clothes that seemed to be more fitted and comfortable for the activity they were about to do. He was in black, skinny jeans and a leather jacket. Geonhak has also realized that the blood on the younger’s leg was probably fake, as he didn’t seem to be hurt at all. It was all a stunt to get Geonhak in their trap.

21st of March, 2021 || 7.15 PM

“Fuck it!” Dongmyeong sighed and turned to face the men in the back. “If he doesn’t want to join the fun. Get him!” He turned to face Geonhak again, a devilish smile on his face. “He will be my pet for the night. I will leave him for the dessert.”

Before Geonhak could do or say anything, two men grabbed him by his arms and forced him down. One of them immediately secured his hands with a zip tie. Dongmyeong took the roll of scotch tape from one of the men and approached Geonhak once again. As hard as he tried to move away, the men holding him were stronger. His mouth was taped shut. His glare was glued to Dongmyeong who seemed to enjoy this too much. He winked at Geonhak and moved away. Someone from the back put a cotton bag over Geonhak’s head and suddenly his vision was lost. The sounds were the only things he could use to more or less identify his surroundings. His head was pushed down and as they dragged him along and pushed into the car. He wondered where they could take him.

They talked about their plans for the night. Based on the voices and where they came from, he realized that he was sitting between two brothers. Suddenly he felt a vibration in his pocket and if his mouth wasn’t covered, he would curse. It must have been Seoho. Geonhak moved a bit, hoping that the brother sitting on his right didn’t feel or hear the vibration.

“What is it Geonhakkie? Are you uncomfortable?” He heard a voice, turning his head to the source, even though he couldn’t see the one’s face. Though he knew it was Dongmyeong. He moved in his spot, trying to get away from the other, but Dongmyeong grabbed him by his neck and pulled him closer, making Geonhak’s heart beat faster.

Geonhak let out a groan, as that was the only thing he could let out. He wished Seoho would stop calling him now. He also hoped that he was smart enough to stay at home. Geonhak wasn’t sure how the night would end, but as long as Seoho was safe, nothing else mattered. Even if the crazy twins decided to kill him, it didn’t matter. He just wanted Seoho to stay out of this.

“Don’t worry, we are almost here.” Dongmyeong patted Geonhak’s thigh. “We just gonna pay a visit to someone special.” The last sentence sent shivers down Geonhak’s spine. It was hard to tell if they rode for a long time or not. Without his vision, he was highly disoriented in his surroundings. He heard some distant screams coming from outside, but the sounds were so quiet, as they were blocked by the car windows. He didn’t know what the other was talking about, but he hoped it had nothing to do with his roommate.

The car finally stopped and the gang jumped out, leaving Geonhak alone in the car. He wanted to get to his phone, but it was impossible, as his hands were tied behind his back. He thought that the fuckers were smart to use a zip tie, as it wasn’t that easy to get rid of. He sat there still, trying to focus his attention on the sounds surrounding him. He wanted to know where they took him and what were they planning to do with him next.

He thought of the day when the twins moved in. It was around 7 months ago. They always were so sweet and polite, one could never think that they would be the ones running around the streets on this crazy night. But then again, they didn’t seem like the ones who were eager to get to know their neighbors. They never left each other’s side. He also never seen any other relatives around. He wondered if they were orphans or did their family simply lived in another city.

Suddenly he heard the door of the car being opened again. Someone grabbed him by his arm and pushed him out, throwing him on the cold ground. It was sand mixed with small rocks, so he wondered if they were somewhere out of the city. He tried getting up to sit on his butt, but the man forced him up. Once Geonhak stood on his feet, a strong kick met his back and he fell on his face. He let out a muffled scream. He felt someone grab his hair, pulling his head up. The pull wasn’t that strong, so he was sure it was one of the brothers. Perhaps Dongmyeong, as he was the one who wanted Geonhak around, for whatever his reason was.

“This is your last chance to change your mind.” He said. His voice was so close and Geonhak realized that he must be squatting down right in front of him, as he still held Geonhak by his hair. Suddenly, Dongmyeong let go of Geonhak’s hair. The next thing Geonhak knew, the bag was finally off his head. He closed his eyes and scrunched his nose, as the sudden bright light of the fires around them blinded his eyes. The man behind him lifted him, putting Geonhak on his knees. Here he was, kneeling in front of the big boss, even though the other was the same height as Geonhak.

Geonhak glared at the boy and let out another groan. He then stared at Dongju who was standing behind Dongmyeong. Somehow, the other twin didn’t seem to be into this massacre as much as the older one.

“Oh right. Sorry, my love.” Dongmyeong leaned over, ripping the tape of Geonhak’s lips.

“Do you think it’s fucking funny?” Geonhak growled.

“You think it’s not?” Dongmyeong tilted his head to the side. “Look at you, you’re so strong. You could crush their skulls with your bare hands. I saw you in the gym. I know what you’re able to do.” He smirked, as he squatted down next to Geonhak again.

“I’m not killing people. I told you, you can kill me if you want. I don’t care.” Geonhak breathed out.

“That would be boring.” Dongmyeong pouted his lips and looked over at Dongju. “I have a better idea. Why spend the night running around when I can have plenty of fun with you.”

“And what the hell is that supposed to mean?” Geonhak’s eyes widened, as he watched both twins.

“You will see.” Dongmyeong smiled, standing up. He then motioned for the men to take Geonhak away.

21st of March, 2021 || 9.05 PM

Geonhak spit out blood on the ground and laughed. Even though the situation he was in was anything but funny. His hands were still tied up, only this time he was tied up to the chair. As two men beat him up for what seemed like an eternity. He tried to think of a reason as to why he was so lucky to end up in this situation. Did he ever insult one of the twins… No, he was always polite. His head was empty and he couldn’t think of any logical reason. Maybe it was just a coincidence. Maybe the trap wasn’t targeted at him and only if he ignored the cries, he would be at home with Seoho. Fuck, Seoho! He licked the blood off his lips and moved his waist a little to the side, trying to feel the phone in his pocket. A whine escaped his mouth, as his ribs hurt from all the punches and kicks he received. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t feel the phone in his pocket. He didn’t recall anyone taking it from him. Maybe it fell off in the car.

Suddenly a door to the room they were in flew open and he saw a familiar figure. Dongmyeong entered the room, followed by Dongju. Did these two ever spend at least a minute away from one another? Geonhak was pissed, mostly because he hated the fact that he was here for no particular reason.

“Will someone explain to me why am I here? Why won’t you let me go home?” Geonhak groaned once Dongmyeong was close enough.

“Home? Why? Is there someone waiting for you?” Dongmyeong patted his lips with his index finger. “Ahh, right. Your roommate. What was his name..?” He turned over to Dongju, hoping that he remembered the other’s name.

“Lee Seoho.” Dongju smiled, nodding his head. “This nerd thinks his stupid system is going to protect him. I bet he is dead already. Now that he doesn’t have his strong boyfriend to protect him.” He laughed out loud, though as soon as he noticed Dongmyeong’s stare, he stopped.

“He is not my boyfriend,” Geonhak whispered. “We are just friends.” His voice was calm, but deep down he was scared. If something was to happen to Seoho, he would never forgive himself.

“Should we pay him a visit?” Dongju tilted his head, as he pressed his gun against the other side of his head.

“Nah, I don’t give a shit about this loser Seoho.” Dongmyeong stood up, bending over Geonhak. “I’d rather stay here with you. I see the boys introduced you to the rules of the game we are about to play.”

“As if you could keep up with their level.” Geonhak laughed, his teeth still covered in blood. The phrase didn’t sit well with the other, so he didn’t hesitate to land a punch to Geonhak’s jaw.

“It would take more punches to shut me up,” Geonhak said after he spat more blood in front of the other’s boots.

Dongmyeong first gave him a stare, but a second later his expression changed. Now he was grinning widely. He grabbed Geonhak’s chin and leaned in closer, leaving almost no space between their faces.

“Then let me introduce you to my friends.” He winked, pushing Geonhak’s face away before he walked over to the table. Geonhak glanced over his shoulder, noticing various knives and other rather sharp weapons laying there. As Dongmyeong’s hand ran over the weapons, he hummed to himself. Everybody else was quiet, so it was just a soft voice of the boy and the loud thumps of Geonhak’s heart.

Finally, Dongmyeong took a butterfly knife and approached Geonhak again. Dongju’s eyes followed his brother and so did Geonhak’s. His eyes widened at the boy and he knew that asking another question was pointless. A part of him knew well enough what was about to happen.

Dongmyeong pressed the button, making the blade pop out. He looked at the knife, his eyes shining bright, as a creepy smile only grew bigger. He admired the cold weapon in his hand and then he carefully dragged the tip of the blade along Geonhak’s cheek. Geonhak closed his eyes and held his breath, his teeth pressing hard against each other. As Dongmyeong’s hand moved lower to his neck, Geonhak opened his eyes and looked down, trying his best to follow the other’s hand. The blade stopped at the collar of Geonhak’s white T-shirt. Dongmyeong grabbed the hem of the shirt and pulled it a little from the other’s body, as his blade made its way through the fabric, tearing it apart. As soon as Geonhak’s chest was exposed, Dongmyeong ran his fingers against the warm skin, tracing his finger down to Geonhak’s belt. He gave him one last look in the eyes before he pushed the blade into the other’s skin with a smug smile on his face.

Geonhak closed his eyes once again, as he gritted his teeth to avoid any sound leaving his mouth. Dongmyeong noticed that and pushed the blade even deeper, moving it across Geonhak’s chest. He watched crimson red blood run down the wound, smiling to himself, as he enjoyed it so much. Geonhak let out a small whimper, which made Dongmyeong’s grin grow even bigger.

He moved the blade away, wiping the blood off it with his finger and then licking it off. Dongmyeong waited for Geonhak’s reaction, but as he didn’t receive any, he continued. Cutting the flesh of the older guy.

22nd of March, 2021 || 12.43 AM

The torture with knives lasted for another few hours. Dongmyeong tried a few different knives and different spots on Geonhak’s body. Geonhak was left shirtless, as in the process his jacket and ripped T-shirt was taken off of him. They also found their phone that was in his jacket’s pocket. However, the phone was long dead. The battery must have died, as Geonhak forgot to charge it during his work hours. With his phone off, he got even more scared for Seoho. He prayed to God that Seoho was smart enough not to leave the house.

Geonhak’s head dropped, he lost a lot of blood and was overall exhausted. He also wouldn’t mind getting some water, as he was getting thirsty and the blood in his mouth didn’t help.

“Can I--- Can I get some water?” He gathered his remaining strength and looked up, catching Dongju’s eyes and begging him for at least a drop of water. Dongju was about to offer him a bottle of water when Dongmyeong kicked it out of Dongju’s arm.

“Don’t you dare give him anything to drink!” Dongmyeong grabbed Dongju by the collar of his jacket, literally growling at him.

“If you plan on playing with him all night, you’d rather reconsider.” Dongju pushed his twin away and turned on his heels. “You keep on playing, I’m bored. I will take the boys and go to the city.”

“So you’re going to leave me, huh?” Dongmyeong tilted his head, as he stared at Dongju.

“You seem to be the only one enjoying this. What’s about him that makes you go this crazy?” Dongju motioned his head toward Geonhak, who seemed to have passed out from the exhaustion. “When we started doing this, we promised we will do it for our parents. No one was after us, but you decided to move to another city as if someone was after your ass.”

“You don’t understand it, Dongju..” Dongmyeong whispered.

“I don’t! And you never explained it. So here, have fun with your new toy. I’m leaving.” Dongju opened the door, taking one last glance at his brother.

“If you leave now… Don’t dare come back!” Dongmyeong growled through gritted teeth. Dongju simply let out a sigh and left, slamming the door behind him. Dongmyeong let out a loud groan, punching the metal door. He then pushed his back against the door and slid down. He felt his heart clench and tears build up in his eyes. He ran his hand through his hair and bit his lip. He couldn’t believe that they got into an argument because of some stupid boy.

Geonhak regained his consciousness, letting out a loud groan. The noise made Dongmyeong come back to his senses and he finally got up, wiping his tears before he went to pick up the bottle that fell earlier. He opened the bottle and poured all of its substance on Geonha’s head. He watched the other lick his lips and face greedily, as he tried to get at least a few drops of water.

“Look at you, so helpless.” Dongmyeong laughed. “Not the typical cool guy I know. The one who looks good no matter the part of the day, be it early morning or the middle of the night.”

“What do you want from me?” Geonhak whispered, his body almost lifeless, his voice coming out as a painful moan.

“You know…” Dongmyeong sat down on the floor, resting his head on his palm. “When they killed our parents in the middle of the night, I held Dongju in my arms, as we hid behind the closet. That night I promised that I will do all in my power to end this stupid game. We tried protesting, we tried signing petitions. But we were helpless against this system. People enjoyed the fact that there was one night in the year when they could do anything and avoid responsibility.” He looked up at Geonhak, catching the boy’s tired gaze.

“So that’s when I told Dongju we should participate. If we can’t stop the game, we should take advantage of the system they have created.”

“Isn’t it stupid?” Geonhak whispered. “Killing innocent people just because someone killed your parents.”

“You don’t understand it!” Dongmyeong jumped to his feet. “They are all at fault. Not just the ones who killed our parents. They are all a part of this mess. So even if I have to kill every living person in this country, I don’t mind!”

“Do you realize…” Geonhak coughed up some dried blood, catching his breath before he could finish his sentence. “You may also be killing someone’s parents. That way it will never end…”

“You think I care? The only person I care about is Dongju.” He nodded his head.

“Then why the fuck did you let him leave? What if he gets killed?” Geonhak screamed as he moved in his chair, regretting the action immediately, as he was still in so much pain from all the punches and cuts.

“Fuck!” Dongmyeong looked at the door and then back at Geonhak. Before he said anything, he grabbed his gun from the table and simply left.

22nd of March, 2021 || 3.15 AM

Geonhak wasn’t sure how much time did he spent in the building alone. He kept on losing and regaining his consciousness, as his body was lacking so much blood. As weak as he was, he couldn’t allow himself to die in this place. The temperature in the room was getting lower and he was cold. To try and at least warm himself a little bit, he started moving in his chair. The pain in his body would make him scream in agony, but he knew he had to try. He let out a few breathes, taking in one long before he tried to jump with his chair, moving toward the table where all the knives were. Who knew, maybe if he got a grip of one of them, he could free his hands.

Some time passed by and he had managed to make it halfway through. The table wasn’t that far, but in the state that he was in, it would take him another hour or so to reach the table. If his body wouldn’t give up earlier.

22nd of March, 2021 || 4.51 AM

He woke up with a loud groan. It seemed that his body has given up and he passed out again. He was thirsty and weak, his body was also shaking as he wasn’t able to produce enough body warmth to keep himself warm. The temperature must have fallen below zero, or maybe it was just his weak body giving up.

He gathered all his strength and was about to jump with the chair again. Then suddenly the door opened and he saw Dongju. His jacket was dirty and the hair was messy, Geonhak wondered if he got into a fight with someone. His gaze froze on the boy and he waited for the other’s reaction. Dongju looked around, raising an eyebrow. He was surprised not to find his twin in the room with their hostage.

“Where’s Dongmyeong?” He asked as he walked over to Geonhak.

“He probably…” Geonhak found it difficult to speak and to keep his eyes open or focused on the other. “...went looking for you.” His head fell once he finished his sentence. He thought that Dongju would leave again, to go looking for his brother. But to his surprise, the younger grabbed the knife from the table and freed Geonhak’s hands. His arms became numb, so as soon as they were freed, they fell to his sides. He simply couldn’t bring himself to lift them or do anything with them.

“Come on, we need to get you out of here.” Dongju grabbed Geonhak’s waist and tried lifting him.

“I’m cold.” Geonhak let out a whine, as his head fell on Dongju’s shoulder.

“Right. Here.” Dongju helped Geonhak to sit down on the chair. He picked up Geonhak’s jacket and helped him put it on. Geonhak let out loud groans again every time Dongju accidentally touched one of the wounds. He felt dizzy and he thought he might pass out from all the pain again, but Dongju didn’t let him. He got another bottle filled with water, opening it, and helping Geonhak drink. “Come on, we need to get you back on your feet.”

“Why are you helping me?” Geonhak licked his dry lips, as he looked up at Dongju.

“Because you’re a good guy, Geonhak. And you don’t deserve it.” He offered a soft smile to the other, holding his waist carefully. He didn’t want to cause any more pain, but he needed to offer enough support.

They slowly moved toward the exit. Dongju had a car outside, ready to take Geonhak anywhere that would be safer than the place they were in right now. A few more hours and Geonhak could call the ambulance for the doctors to take care of his wounds. All he needed was to hold on for two more hours. But sometimes life doesn’t go as planned.

The door opened in front of them and they met Dongmyeong’s surprised gaze. He looked over at Dongju and then at Geonhak that was leaning against Dongju’s body. He raised an eyebrow and in a matter of seconds, his expression switched from surprised to furious. He grabbed Geonhak by the collar of his jacket and moved his body away from Dongju. He then pointed his gun at his twin brother.

“What the fuck, Dongju?!” He shouted, moving the gun barrel even closer to Dongju’s forehead.

“Dongmyeong, stop it. It’s insane. He did nothing wrong. You can go on killing all these other people who you think are responsible for the death of our parents but don’t harm innocent people.” Dongju tried to push his twin away from Geonhak, but before he could do it, Dongmyeong threw Geonhak’s body on the floor.

“Since when do you care about all the people? I thought it was us against the world.” Dongmyeong put his gun into his back pocket and pushed Dongju further from the door. “But here you are, trying to betray me!”

“Listen to me…” Dongju tried to calm down his twin. Geonhak pulled his body against the wall, watching two brothers get into the fight. His head was spinning, either because of the blood loss or the fact that he hit his head when the older twin threw him on the floor.

22nd of March, 2021 || 6.32 AM

Geonhak heard a scream. He tried opening his heavy eyelids, looking around the room. The twins were punching each other. Dongmyeong has pushed Dongju to the table and was beating him up. For some reason, Dongju wasn’t returning the hits, maybe because he didn’t want to hurt his brother. Dongmyeong let out a loud groan, hitting Dongju’s chest one last time before he let go of him.

“Fine... “ He let out a sigh. “You can choose who you want to be. A hero for him… or my brother?” He looked down, as he moved away from Dongju. Dongju wanted to pat his shoulder, but he hesitated. He looked over at Geonhak who was holding onto his stomach and in his head the answer was obvious. He rushed over to Geonhak, helping him stand on his feet so that they can leave.

Once Geonhak was on his feet, Dongju placed one of his arms around his neck and was about to help Geonhak walk out of the building. Suddenly Geonhak heard a loud gunshot and he jerked his head to look behind him. Dongmyeong stood there, holding a gun, as tears streamed down his face. Before Geonhak knew it, Dongju’s body leaned against his, resulting in them both falling to the floor.

“No! What have you done, you freak!!” Geonhak screamed as he tried to press his hand to Dongju’s wound. But he was too weak to apply enough pressure to stop the blood. He laid Dongju’s head in his lap and caressed his cheek, as he felt tears running down his cheeks.

22nd of March, 2021 || 6.59 AM

Dongmyeong froze in his spot, as he quietly sobbed, watching his brother dying in the stranger’s arms. He pressed the gun riffle to his head and pulled the trigger.

22nd of March, 2021 || 7.00 AM

The siren sounds echoed in the city. The announcement stating that the Annual Purge has ended and the services will continue their usual work was made. Geonhak looked over at Dongmyeong’s lifeless body and then down at Dongju that just let out his last breath in his arms. He screamed, deep down wishing that the events of the last night were just a bad dream.

#kpopscape #21stpurgescape #tw: violence #tw: blood #tw: guns #tw: knives #tw: torture #tw: death #thriller #purge au #angst #omfg i cant believe i did it #please let me know if i forgot to mention tag something #but read at your own risk #even though i skipped some MORE IN DEPTH DETAILS #be cautious this aint a fluffy fic #i also hope its not too confusing with all the events changing #anyways i am open for constructive criticism #writing

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caffeinatedrogue · 3 years

Note

for the soft oc ask because I lowkey adore Vincent - 💐🍂 🌹 (although I would like to know the answer to all of them honestly)

THANKS FOR LOVING MY OVERGROWN RAT *blessed* SORRY THIS GOT LONG

🌹 Where in the world does your OC feel most at home? Is there any reason why? If it’s not the place they were born, where were they born? Is there a certain somebody that makes them feel at home where ever they may be? What does home mean to them? Oof, this is complicated. Vincent was actually born in NC, shortly before his parents joined the nomads. And for Nomads, home is very much where your heart is - it isn't a place but the connection that you have to your people and your loyalty to them. If it had to be a thing, it would be the taste of the spices that his mother used for cooking, god only knows how and where she'd always manage to get them, or the smell of motor oil and sweat, fixing cars in some makeshift-garage with his dad, or drinking cheap beer in abandoned houses with his friends. But those connections are severed, and irreparably damaged in his mind, when he's going to NC - and it is almost ironic to him that of all places, NC ends up becoming his home, and the people he meets there his new pack . Home to him is a concept that encompasses loyalty and purpose. That's why he will not leave Night City, why he feels like he can't go back to simply being a Nomad, despite feeling part of the Aldecaldos - all those factors have changed. After Mikoshi, he could have walked away from it. But he stays and keeps running the Afterlife, for Johnny and Rogue and their legacy, because there’s people he can help in his position and even more people that rely on him, and of course, first and foremost - because Kerry is there & I don’t even have to explain this point, really :’D 🍂 Does your OC enjoy hugs? What do they do as a show of affection for: their friends, their family, their significant other(s) or for strangers? Over all what are they like with recieving affection from others?

Vincent is a THE-BIGGEST-HUGGER-SNUGGLER. Like, if you happen to possess a physical body and he knows you enjoy physical contact, he will hug you. To comfort you, to greet you, or just because. And he likes getting affection just as much, especially if he is need of comfort. Words are good, but a hug is better. I just think Nomads are just generally...culturally more open in their displays of affection compared to city people, because you know and trust basically all the people around you, they just have a different sense of community. So, is it hugs? pats on the back? high fives? shoulder squeezes? he'll figure out what you like and use it. It could probably be a good meter of how friendly he is feeling towards any person, if he's touching you, you're pals. I headcanon that this propensity to communicating via touching is one of the reasons why him and Kerry just got along famously from day one - like, yeah, we speak the same language (also why I got second-hand butterflies for him when he put his hand on Ker's shoulder during the van heist, that was so weirdly intimate, I softly whispered 'oh my god'). They're the kind of couple that makes everybody go 'WE GET IT YOU'RE IN LOVE, YOU WON'T DIE IF YOU DON'T TOUCH FOR 30 SECONDS, I PROMISE' 💐 How does your OC handle being unwell or forced to rest in bed? Who cares for them and in what ways? Does your OC enjoy being doted on or are they a terrible patient? Reversed: is your OC good at taking care of others who are ill or in need?

If left to his own devices V. is mostly like 'I have important stuff to do and won't stop even if I'm literally dying' which is a fucking dangerous thing cause he will pop stims and be like 'I'M FINE' (narrator voice: he was not, in fact, fine). It takes persuasion, a fuckton of persuasion, probably handcuffs will do, to make him stay in bed and accept help, because 'come on you surely have better things to do! It's just the flu, I will manage, I am a grown ass man!' he also gets extremely grumpy cause he doesn't want to stay still in a bed when he could be doing just something else. Not a terrible patient, but 5/10 would not exactly recommend either. Before Kerry takes over (and it’s easy game for him, he just has to get into bed himself and V. will follow suit) it's Judy and Misty that will babysit him more often, and they have figured out that a good tactic is to stay with him and do stuff like watch a movie and eat snacks until he manages to fall asleep. He is very good at taking care of people though, he goes full Concerned Mama mode. need meds? foot massage? a snack? additional blankets? I'M YOUR MAN, PLEASE DON’T DIE. Just refuse the soup he will offer to make unless it's 1-min-noodles or something, because there's a high chance you'll get food poisoning in addition to whatever is plagueing you

#v for vincent #cp77 #cyberpunk 2077 #THANKS FOR ASKING I HAVE SO MANY FEELINGS #eurodyness

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cedricstower · 4 years

Note

Hear me out but poly relationship of Cedric x Reader x Greylock?

oh ABSOLUTELY!

~gender neutral reader~

Poly Relationship between Cedric x Greylock x Reader

how all three of you end up together is beyond me or anyone else in Enchancia

at first it was just you and Cedric, you guys had been incredibly committed to each other albeit for a short while, but you guys seemed to have something really special between the two of you

the day you meet Greylock is when you two cross paths at a Conjurer’s Conference (if you’re magical, it’s probably your first time going together, but if you’re not, Cedric probably offered to show you around and you’re beyond excited), much to Cedric’s confusion because he thought Greylock would’ve been exiled by now

“All I had to do was use the ol’ charm on them and I got re-instated in three years time!”

“Of course” Cedric grumbles, annoyed beyond belief

you however are fascinated, taken with this jester-esc wizard. You begin to ask him a multitude of questions, annoying and confusing Cedric even further.

“So what did you tell the guards?” “What did you do?” “Are you a royal sorcerer too?”

Greylock was more than happy to answer all your questions, quite endeared by your wide-eyedness

Cedric’s probably standing there like “what is happening????”

You get distracted by a booth that catches your eye, give Cedric a kiss on the cheek and tell him you’ll be right back after checking it out while he catches up with his friend

You run off, and a smug looking Greylock walks up beside a still grumpy but slightly softer Cedric

“Well, they’re quite a catch, aren’t they, Cedric old chum?” He says, giving his comrade a wink

“I will fucking stab you” is what Cedric wish he could’ve said, however he settled for crossing his arms and grumbling something incoherent, good call, Ceddy.

over time the more you and Greylock cross paths, the more you guys get to know and enjoy each others company. Much to Cedric’s distaste.

You really don’t understand what Cedric doesn’t like about Greylock, but you decide not to push any questions on him for now

every time you two hang out, Greylock dazzles you with magic tricks, humors you with harmless pranks on the villagers, and occasionally attempts to woo you say via conjuring a lovely pink tulip for you.

You always have so much fun with Greylock. He was charming, witty, and smarter than people gave him credit for... sort of like your Ceddy. They didn’t see it, but they have a lot more in common then they both think

it’s not like Cedric stops you from hanging out with Greylock, god forbid he let himself be one of those boyfriends. He’d sooner throw himself back in the dungeon than control any aspect of your life (unless of course you were cheating on him or harming yourself in any way shape or form, stuff like that, but those aren’t relevant here so we’re not gonna unpack all of that)

however he starts getting suspicious when you two act a little more than friendly around him...

you were bidding Greylock goodbye when you gave him a small kiss on his cheek, to which he smiled and told you he’d keep it there forever.

this made you laugh, he always did

heading back to give Cedric a hug, he continued to stare off in the direction that his “old friend” had taken off to

“what was that about?” he asks

“huh?”

“Th-that, that kiss you just gave to him.”

You wave your hand. “Aw, hun, don’t worry about it. It was just a friendly little kiss.” You said, gently and playfully pinching his cheek which always caused the blood to rush to his face from embarrassment.

Cedric trusts you, he always has. It’s Greylock he doesn’t trust. They way that man looks at you... he knows what it means because he’s had to give you the exact same look for a whole year before you realized he liked you. However Cedric was much less crude about it.

he’s not proud to say it’s something he thinks and worries about a lot, his own insecurities of not being good enough slipping in every now and again, not that he’d tell you though

but he’s shockingly unsurprised when you and Greylock, as gently as possible, approach him about a relationship.

“All three of us, together! I think... I think it can really work out.”

“And I concur! Whadaya say, Cedric old chum?”

Immediately Cedric’s first thought was “No. Absolutely not.” No way was he willing to let you go about gallivanting with this jester of a sorcerer in a romantic sense.

It’s not that he didn’t want you to be happy, he really did, but it was Cedric who wholeheartedly denied he and Greylock could ever get along in a romantic sense, they were barely able to stay cordial for Merlin’s sake!

he’s shaking a little, but gulps down his internal thoughts and sighs. “I’ll think about it.”

the following week is a bit awkward for you two, every time you touch Cedric’s shoulder, it’s the lightest of feather touches and you speak to him extra carefully and softly, because you know this sort of proposal is telling him one thing

that he isn’t good enough for you

it comes to a point when you’re both lying in bed, and he’s finally ready to talk about it with you. He takes both your hands in his and locks his hazel eyes onto yours.

“Y/n, I-I really want you to be happy and... and have a fulfilling relationship but... before I continue, I need you to promise that... that it isn’t me. Is it?”

you know exactly what he means by that. And how could it be him? He was looking at you with wide eyes glossy on the verge of tears, it made your heart shatter and those tiny pieces melt.

“Oh, Cedric...” you brought a hand to his cheek, softly caressing him. You never used his full name unless you were being completely serious. It was always either ‘Ceddy’ or one of the various sweet pet names you had for him. “Of course it’s not you. You’re perfect.”

He’s hesitant at first, but he felt the honesty drip from your tone and radiating from your soul. Softening, he smiled. “Well, in that case, I suppose I don’t see the harm in you two having a relationship.”

You are beyond excited and leap into his arms for a hug, blurting out a thousand ‘thank you’s’ while feverishly kissing him up and down the side of his face, sending Cedric into a giggling mess.

Goodness gracious you were adorable, if he caught Greylock treating you with even the slightest bit of mistreatment, he’d be sure to cut all ties between you two and that monocle-wearing warlock immediately

as time went on, you and Greylock became inseparable. Prompting you to always convince Cedric to join in on your dates.

at first he’d only come along for you, and any time Greylock attempted to put the moves on him Cedric swerved that bitch.

but the more those two are forced to spend time together for your sake, the more they actually start to bond

at first, it’s mostly over their adoration for you

“Isn’t y/n just the cutest little crum, Cedric ol’ pal?”

“I suppose I can’t argue with you there, but do be careful with the “cute” word around them, they absolutely hate it.”

“Oh? I bet they’re adorable when they’re mad~”

Cedric rolls his eyes playfully. “Oh on the contrary, they’re horrifying. But... their cheeks do puff up and get red and it’s admittedly endearing.”

this was the start of a beautiful... romance? friendship? nobody really knows, least of all Cedric and Greylock

you notice how much more Cedric starts to loosen up around Greylock, he actually laughed at one of his jokes for the first time! It made your stomach do flips and your heart squeeze itself in your chest.

it makes you so happy to see your boys getting along <3

and it’s only a matter of time until Greylock had successfully won Cedric over, and he needs to announce it in the most dramatic way possible

he storms into the workshop one day, where you waited for Cedric because he “had a surprise” for you

Greylock kicks down the door with Cedric being carried in his arms (much to his embarrassment, his arms crossed and his face on fire) and loudly proclaims that he had finally “claimed Cedric’s ass”

this causes Cedric to yell out a surprised, “WHAT?” and push Greylocks face away while he stumbles out of his arms. “I did not agree to you saying that!”

too bad, it got you laughing and Cedric blushing, which is all Greylock wanted out of this to be honest

from then on, you three are the most chaotic polyamory in Enchanica

Greylock’s always trying to get you both to laugh, thought it’s easier for you then Cedric

yes, he occasionally resorts to tickling him, and Cedric is extremely ticklish

they still bicker a lot though, and you’re typically the peace-keeper. Though luckily none of you actually argue.

it’s usually over petty things, like how the bed shouldn't be used as a cracker platter Greylock

“Well then why is it called a spread sheet, Cedric?”

yeah this is usually how mornings go.

obviously they’ve calmed down a lot since dating though, knowing if they wanted this relationship to work, they’d have to be more level-headed with each other

dates are always super fun though! You guys alternate between your interests and even have a whole weekly date-night chart (courtesy of Cedric)

Greylock, because he’s a clown at heart, really likes the stereotypical “fun” dates like amusement parks, carnivals, swimming, dancing, bars, ect.

Cedric is partial staying inside because at heart, he’s an introvert and an old soul, so a day inside the workshop with the two of you, some tea, snacks, and a game of chess is more than enough for him (in a modern AU he’d enjoy movie nights at home and cuddling on the couch, fantasy/fantastical being his favorite genre)

you’re a little more adventurous than Cedric, but not quite as outgoing as Greylock, so you enjoy outdoor dates like festivals, nature walks, concerts, picnics, all that Fun Summer jazz.

however if you guys literally have no idea what else to do, going out for dinner is your go-to.

Cuddle-piles that turn into naps??? 100%

Cedric clings onto you and Greylock while Greylock has you in his lap, and his arm around Cedric while you three are lying down

Greylock is one for giving you both creative surprise smooches. Once he gave Cedric one of those squirt flowers but instead of spraying him with water a pair of comically puckered lips jumped out and planted one right on Cedric’s mouth.

Of course what he thought was gonna be a sweet gift turned into a gag, but Greylock made it up by giving him a real peck on the lips after

he tried the same thing on you after, but you were smart and declined, even after Greylock pretending to pout and beg you to take it lest he die from your lack of love, but you weren’t having it and laughed while tapping his nose

“Nice try, hunny bun.”

you know that meme that’s like “What if I put the oven to 40000000 degrees and baked the cookies for 1 second?” and one friend on the line is like “no wtf you’ll burn your house” and the other is like “lmao do it”? Yeah, that’s Greylock, Cedric, and you, in that order.

#ask #anon #this was so much fun to write thank you #sofia the first #sofia the first headcanons #stf #sofia the fandom #cedric the sorcerer #cedric the sorcerer headcanons #cedric the sorcerer x reader #cedric the sensational #cedric the sensational headcanons #cedric the sensational x reader #greylock the grand #greylock the grand headcanons #greylock the grand x reader

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darkficsyouneveraskedfor · 5 years

Text

What we lost in the ashes

Warnings: noncon sex (oral, m&f, intercourse)

This is dark!Steve and explicit. 18+ only.

Summary: At her weekly grief counseling groups, the reader finds herself seeking support in strangers. Even the famous Steve Rogers. But is there more to his compassion than meets the eye?

Note: Okay so this is a one shot but it’s hella long (8800+ words). To anyone who has the energy, thank you for reading. I was gonna split it up but it just wasn’t making sense and I like it altogether. But without further ado...

Please let me know what you think in a reblog/reply! <3 please and thank you.

You walked out of the interview and cringed into your hands. Fuck. You were so worked up you fumbled over nearly every word. Even as you breathed and fought to steady yourself, it all tumbled out like water over the falls.

Two months and only three interviews. More than a dozen rejection emails, too. All of it piled up and left you senseless as you sat across from the interviewer. You already knew you didn't get the job. Another fuck up.

You checked your phone as you dragged your feet across the pavement. Well, the one positive was you might actually make it to your group meeting. You'd have to go straight there but you didn't relish the thought of being alone for the rest of the night.

Most days were spent alone since the snap. Since half of New York and the world disappeared. That was a year ago but the city still felt so empty.

Still, even an apocalyptic event could not lower the cost of living in New York. And without a job for two months, your rent looked even higher.

It was just past the hour when you got off the subway. You took the stairs two at a time and stumbled out onto the street. You held your purse to your hip and your thin folder of resumes to your chest. You jogged past fellow pedestrians and stopped out of breath before the centre.

Every Wednesday and Saturday. Most didn't make both meetings. They found other ways to cope. Other than listening; talking. The bars and strip clubs were the most successful businesses since the snap. Perhaps you should look into those.

You ducked through and your heels clicked on the floor. You rushed up to the second floor and did your best to tiptoe to the door. It was still open for latecomers. At the twenty minute mark, it would close.

As you came up, the stopper was kicked and you barely caught the door before it shut. A single voice filled the large space. Marnie was telling her story again. She was of the few who enjoyed talking.

"Wait," You whispered and dashed through the door. Steve looked down at you as you slipped through and you could see the surprise and disappointment in his eyes. He hated tardiness.

"Nice of you to show up," He kept his voice low.

*Sorry," You said and he waved you ahead of him.

"Grab a seat," He pointed to the folding chairs against the far wall and parted to retake his own among the circle.

You took a chair and carried it to the group. You set your stuff down on the floor and unfolded it over it. You sat and crossed your legs as you ignored the eyes of others and listened to Marni recounting the meal she made for her husband the day he turned to ash.

When she finished, Steve asked a few questions and tried to open the floor up to a discussion. That never really worked. He did most of the talking. The great Captain America was the spearhead of these meetings.

Dozens of these meetings were funded everyday by the Stark corporation as part of the Avengers recovery program. Yours had been the first: informal and arranged via Craigslist. A group of confused mourners left behind.

Then Steve expanded, reached out to others, and as time passed, more were willing to meet. There was a circle almost every night but you kept to your usual group. You knew each other, tolerated each other.

"Well, you guys are a talkative bunch tonight," Steve chided as he crossed his arms. "Dennis?" The man shook his head and Steve sighed. "How about you?" He looked to you, "What had you running behind?"

You pushed your shoulders back and looked around the circle. You were the only one who had never told their story. You tried once. Half a sentence before you walked out. But you liked listening and talking about others' experiences, not your own.

"I had an interview," You answered curtly. "Don't think it went very well though."

Steve nodded and dropped his arms. "How long has it been? A month?"

"Two," You corrected him. "And barely as many prospects."

"It's tough these days. Every day another business closes its door but we have to remember that just as many have a dozen desks empty and waiting. It just takes patience." He smiled. "There might be less of us now but it means that there's more for us too. In a way, the world's gotten so much bigger. Those of us left behind, we gotta make the most of what was left to us."

You swallowed your resent. You didn't need his empty encouragements. The man lived on Stark dollar and even in such a sad state, the corporation was profiting. And this Avenger, this hero, was still playing at saving the world one broken New Yorker at a time.

"So, any other interviews?" He asked.

You shook your head. You were done talking. He pressed his lips together as you dropped your eyes to your lap.

"Alright, then, Sal?" He cleared his throat.

"I went to the pound the other day," Sal began. He lost his dog in the snap. His husband too. "There was this dog there. Name was Lucky. Shepherd mix with floppy ears... I took him home."

"Wow, Sal, that's great." Steve said. "You know, that's real progress. What made you take Lucky home?"

"I'm not sure, I just looked at him and I knew." Sal sniffed and his chair creaked. "I'm tired of being lonely."

You kept your chin down as you listened. You played with the cuff of your brown tweed jacket. Perhaps the night would've been better alone. You looked up as you sensed movement.

Steve watched as you picked at the thick thread hanging from your sleeve. You stopped and uncrossed your legs and straightened in your chair. He smiled as you met his gaze and you turned to focus on Sal as he spoke. You could distract yourself from the negative in your bank account with the woes of others. It was always easier to dwell on problems not your own.

At the end of the meeting, everyone gathered around the table for the usual stale coffee and medley of snacks. You munched on the veggies and dip and took a bottle of water. You didn’t have much to eat at home and these meetings became a chance to fill up. You tossed your plate and waited for the others to filter out.

You decided to help clean up since you were late. You started to fold the chairs and replace them against the wall. The last was scooped up before you could grab it and Steve swiftly folded it and held it at his side.

“So…”

“Sorry I was late. Didn’t think I’d make it after the interview but...figured I’d try.” You shrugged.

“I’m glad you came, at least. That’s better than not.” He smiled. He carried the chair past you and put it with the rest. “Thanks. You don’t have to stay and help.”

“I know, but I should. I know you hate it when we’re late.”

“Oh?” The lines along his forehead deepened.

“That’s how,” You pointed to him. “The look.”

He chuckled and followed you to the table and began to clear the used paper plates and cups. You closed up the uneaten food and stacked the containers. You worked in silence.

“What was the interview for?” He asked suddenly.

“Um, oh, just data entry. But I kinda fucked that up.” You grumbled as he placed the containers on a cart.

“How so?”

“I just...couldn’t think. Or speak. I got three rejections this morning. Three. You think with all these people gone, the employment rate would sky rocket.” You helped him fold the table and set it with the chairs.

“And there’s no one to help? No one left?” He asked carefully.

“All the friends that didn’t disappear left the city.”

“And family?” He ventured.

You shook your head and looked away. You cleared your throat and retrieved your purse and folder from where you’d left them.

“Two months, eh? How are you...managing?” He redirected and you were thankful.

“Barely.” You shook your head and hooked your purse over your shoulder. “But I’ll have to figure it out. You...don’t have to worry about me.”

“I do.” He assured you. “This is a support group, right? We support each other here.”

You gripped the folder and stayed silent. He turned and grabbed a container from the cart. The last of the veggie tray. He opened it and added a few sandwiches from the one beneath.

“Here. Take em. Better than them going to the bin.” He held out the tupperware.

“I...can’t.” You shook your head.

“You can and you will.” He asserted and stepped closer. He nudged the folder with the container.

“I--”

“It’s not charity. It’s human decency. Take it.” He insisted. “Just bring the container back on Saturday, okay?”

“Alright,” You relented and accepted the food. “Th-thank you.”

“Not at all,” He reached into his back pocket and opened his wallet. You watched him, confused and mortified. He pulled out a small rectangle and offered the card between two fingers. “You need anything, to talk, or some help, you should give me a call.”

“Steve, I don’t think--”

“Look, you’re the only one who didn’t take a card. Sal’s been sending me pictures of his dog since he got him and Marnie shares recipes twice a day. You wouldn’t guess it but Dennis loves memes and Clara needs a designated driver more often than not. I’m here to help. It’s the least I can do.” He set the card on top of the container.

“Why?” You asked. “Why do you do this?”

“Because I’m selfish.” He said. “I don’t like being alone.”

You stared at the card and sighed. “Fair enough...I should go, I guess.”

“Yeah, uh, you need a ride?”

“No, no, I’m fine.” You assured him. “Besides, you’ve done enough.”

You kept the card in your purse but never took it out. You brought the empty container to Saturday’s meeting. Steve filled it again at the end and forced it into your hands. You protested but he was a hard man to deny. He asked about your job hunt and if you needed anything else. You assured him you were fine.

You left with your tupperware of pity food and returned to your walk-up. It was too big for just you anyway. You should just give notice and downgrade to one of the bachelor’s downtown. That felt wrong though. Like forgetting. Like running away.

You shoved the leftovers in the fridge and slept on the couch. You hadn’t slept upstairs in months. You couldn’t. Your bed was so cold; so unwelcoming. The top floor was empty and full of ghosts. Memories whispering in your ear.

Another meeting on Wednesday. The third of the month and only half the rent paid from the last of your savings. You didn’t listen and as usual, you didn’t talk. You were the first to leave as you resigned to say goodbye to your home.

A notice greeted you. Pay your rent in full by the tenth of the month or eviction proceedings would go forward. You ripped it off the door and retreated inside. It was the first time you were close to crying. The last year had been a numb blur.

You didn’t though. You wouldn’t. Not over a townhouse. That was nothing. You checked your phone and scrolled through your contacts. None of them still in the city, most of them not even on the planet. You stared at your wallpaper and hugged the phone to your chest.

You pulled your purse across the sofa and dug inside. It was just past nine. He’d still be packing up. You should’ve stayed to help. You took the card out from the zippered pocket and tapped it against your screen. Your finger moved slowly and the dial tone scared you. You waited.

“Hello?” Steve’s voice rose from the speaker. You gulped. “Hello?”

“Hey Steve, it’s...me,” You said awkwardly. “Sorry I didn’t stay to help.”

“It’s all good,” He replied after a pause. “I’m glad you called.”

“Yeah, I…” You sniffed and swallowed your words.

“You okay?” He filled the silence.

“Yeah...I just...wanted to apologize.” You lied.

“You sure you’re alright?” He asked again.

“...No. I’m getting evicted. I didn’t...I don’t have anyone else to call so...I called you.”

“I’m almost done here. I can stop by if you need company or…?” He offered.

You considered. You chewed your nail. You only wanted to talk but you weren’t so good at that anymore. It wouldn’t hurt to have company...as long as he stayed downstairs. It had only been you.

“Do you like beer?” He asked suddenly.

“Yeah, I don’t mind it. I...Steve, you really don’t have to.” You rubbed your forehead and huffed. “I’ll be okay.”

“But you’re not right now. So let me just make sure you will be, alright?”

“Fine,” You relented. “I’ll...text you the address.”

“Great,” He chimed. “I shouldn’t be long. See ya soon.”

“Yeah, see ya.” You hung up and dropped the phone. Why had you done that?

Half an hour later, there was a knock at the door. You were pacing the foyer when it filled the empty space. You stopped short and marched to the door. You took a breath and opened it. Steve smiled as he held up a six pack of cans.

“Hey, kinda worried you might fall asleep on me,” He greeted.

“No, I don’t really--Come in.” You stepped back to let him through. “Just in there.” You pointed to the living room. “Sorry, I don’t have much to offer.”

“That’s fine. There’s leftovers in the car if you’re peckish.” He offered as he stepped through. He shed his jacket and folded it over the arm of the sofa.

“Not very hungry.” You watched him sit on the sofa. The pillow and blanket were neatly stacked on the chair. “Didn’t take you as a beer person. Figured it wouldn’t really...appeal to your sensitivities.”

“Yeah, doesn’t really give me a buzz but it’s more a nostalgic thing, you know?” His eyes glided across the eviction notice on your coffee table and he slipped a can from the six pack. “Here.”

“Uh, thanks,” You took it tentatively and cracked it as he grabbed one of his own. “I...you didn’t have to come. I feel bad.”

“Don’t. I wouldn’t if I didn’t want to.” He assured you. “Well, you gonna sit or hover around me like a bird all night?”

“Sorry,” You neared and sat on the cushion next to him. You took a gulp and winced at the grainy alcohol. You preferred wine.

“You seemed...off at the meeting. I was worried.” He said. “So, how bad is it?”

You stared at him. You set down your beer and swiped the notice off the table. You crumpled it up and tossed it. “Well, I can’t afford my rent which means I can’t afford first and last for even a one-room shithole, so...a couple weeks from homelessness.”

He took a drink and thought. He leaned an elbow on his knee and looked around. “Pity. It’s a nice place.”

“Yeah. A lot of room for one person though.” You grumbled. “Figure I’ll go to the shelter till I can get a job and--”

“How much?” He asked abruptly. You tilted your head and flinched. “What?”

“How much is the rent?”

“Steve, no. I don’t need this place. I should’ve gotten rid of it months ago--”

“The support program offers financial support. I can put your name in. A few of the others have already taken advantage of it. Sal’s getting his first vet visit for Lucky covered and Marnie...Well, if you ever looked at any of the literature I put out, you’d know all this.”

“Really, I...didn’t even think of that. I…” You sat back gripped your head. “Shit. Okay, yeah, put my name in. I...Steve, thank you.”

“No problem. It’s what the group is for. I just need your rent statement and I can fill out all the rest. Real easy process.” He assured.

“Oh yeah,” You stood. “Let me just hunt it down.”

You went to the kitchen and stirred around in your drawer of bills. You looked over as Steve stood and sipped from his beer. He looked around at the empty shelves and vacant walls. He paced the room and sat back down as you found the right statement. You approached as he dug around in the couch and placed the paper on the table in front of him.

“There’s something…” He grunted and pulled out his hand. He gripped a small doll with messy blonde hair. Long lost in the depths of your sofa. He looked at it curiously. It was the type you got in Happy Meals. “Uh, here.”

He handed you the Barbie and you took it shakily. “Statement’s there,” You said quietly and turned away.

You shoved the doll under the counter and sat back down. You took a deep swig from the beer. Your phone vibrated on the table as Steve took the bill and folded it into his jacket pocket. He looked over as your phone buzzed and you scooped it up. You swiped away the notification and locked it quickly. It was too late; he’d seen it.

He nodded and clasped his hands together as he thought. You emptied the can and clinked it back on the table.

“You had a daughter?” He asked. You nodded and took another beer from the pack. “I’m sorry.”

“Not your fault.” You opened the beer and drank again. “Not your problem.”

He was quiet for a moment. He finished his beer and sighed. “Why do you come to group if you don’t want to talk about it?”

“Because it makes it easier. It’s a distraction. A reassurance that I’m not the only one.” You shrugged. “I told you, this place is too big for just me.”

His blue eyes clung to you as you avoided looking at him. You sipped from the metal rim and held in a belch. “Thanks for the beer but...you don’t have to stay.” You stood and gathered the empty cans. “Let me know about the financial program. I have till the tenth to figure it out.”

“Will do,” He stood and grabbed his jacket. “Let me know if you need anything else.”

“I’m good.” You assured him. “Really. You’ve done too much already.”

“Right. Have a good one.” He pulled on his jacket and backed away.

“Don’t forget the beer.” You made to grab it and he shook his head.

“Keep it.” He waved you off. “I’ll see you Saturday.”

“Yeah, sure.” You followed him to the door. “Thanks again.”

Steve called you on Monday to tell you the good news. You were approved for two months rent. The payment was completed directly and as always your receipt arrived in your inbox. It was a relief. And two interviews in one week! Things were starting to look up.

And then you got another call. You got a job and your training started on Wednesday. You messaged Steve the good news and thanked him for his help. You also broke the news that you wouldn’t me MIA at the meeting that night.

It was a simple job; proofreading. Enough to pay the bills. Training would be for a week and then you’d be in the swing of things. Soon enough, Saturday’s meeting swung by and Steve was all too happy to congratulate you. That night, you talked about your new job. You still didn’t mention her though.

As had become your habit, you stayed to put everything away. Steve offered some leftovers and you assured him you were able to afford your groceries now. You took them anyway; lunch for Monday. You folded the table and looked around the empty room.

“So, you wanna celebrate?” He asked.

“Hmm?” You buttoned your coat. The fall air was growing brisker. Winter was just around the corner. Another Christmas alone.

“The job. A drink? Maybe a proper dinner?”

“Right now?” You wondered.

“Sure, why not? You don’t work tomorrow, right?”

“No,” You admitted. “You don’t have to--”

“I hate it when you say that. You ever think I want to?” He smiled.

“My treat,” You insisted. “It’s the least I can do.”

“Alright. You don’t have to twist my arm,” He accepted. “There’s a place just down the street.”

“Sure.” You smiled. You didn’t do a lot of that.

It was a small place. Homey, even. There were board games on shelves along the wall and the low coffee tables were lined by cushy sofas and chairs. They served cocktails, both hot and cold, and the food was rustic but uptown.

You got a salad and an alcoholic latte. You’d regret the espresso later. Steve got a stout and corned beef sandwich with fries. You played crazy eights until he admitted ultimate defeat. You laughed and ordered a second round.

“So, how’s the job so far?” He asked.

“Training still but it’s nice. Everyone’s friendly.” You replied.

“That’s good. Always good to work with people you like.”

“Uh, yeah. I...can I ask you something?” You ventured.

“Sure. You don’t ask much.” He sipped from his pint and waited.

“I never really thought of it but...you still do the whole Captain thing or is it just the groups now?”

“Well...if they really need me, I’ll pick the shield up again but for now, I guess I’m just trying to live.” He rubbed his temple. “Didn’t do a lot of that before all this.”

You nodded. You rubbed your palm with your thumb as you thought. “How do you start over? Can you? I don’t think...I can.”

“You don’t. You carry on.” He said solemnly. “Not really a choice there.”

“Yeah,” You took a drink and wiped the foam from your lips. “I guess you’re right.”

“Can I ask you something now?” He leaned forward as his fingers tapped along the edge of the coffee table.

“I suppose,” You cupped your mug between your palms.

“Do you think you’ll ever talk about her?” His voice was quiet, gentle. “Cause I think you should.”

“Jesus, Steve, this isn’t a support group.” You hissed. Your hair stood on end and you set your mug down.

“Just a question.” He raised his hand defensively. “That’s all.”

“I’m sorry, I...For once, I wasn’t thinking about her and...I don’t know.” You sat back and folded your hands together on your lap.

“It’s okay. I get it.” He said. “So...if this isn’t a support group, what is it?”

You looked at him. You felt as if you’d been slapped. That was a good question and you had no answer.

“Maybe...it was a mistake,” You stood and grabbed your purse.

“What? Wait.” He rose as you took your jacket from the back of the couch. “No, don’t. It was only a question.”

“Look, Steve, I don’t want you to get the wrong idea. I really appreciate everything you’ve done. You’re great for the group and all but...that’s all this is.” You pulled on the faded tweed and buttoned it clumsily. “This isn’t the world to get attached in. This was a thank you, that’s it. I’m sorry if I made you think otherwise.”

You spun and headed to the counter. You paid the bill as Steve hovered behind you. You turned back and he neared.

“I wasn’t trying to push you. I’m sorry.”

“You don’t have to apologize, okay? This was just...a mistake.” You gripped your purse and swayed nervously. “Have a good night, Steve. I’ll see you on Wednesday.”

“Will you?” He countered.

“Yeah, I will.” You assured him as you stepped around him. “See ya.”

“See ya,” He said quietly and you felt him watching you as the door rang to signal your exit. Maybe you could switch for Wednesday night and avoid the inevitable awkwardness.

Sunday morning. You woke tired from a restless night. You stretched and made your way to the kitchen. Every day you drank your coffee at the counter and scrolled through the news. As you sipped, your phone buzzed. You picked up as your work number flashed in your face.

“Hello?” You greeted in confusion.

“Hey, it’s Mark.” The cheery manager sang from the other end.

“Oh, um hi?” You gripped your mug in your other hand.

“Yeah, I was just calling because...I have some bad news. We uh, had our quarterly this morning and well, our new hires are unfortunately...no longer hires.”

“What?” Your heart dropped. “Are you--Am I fired?”

“I’m sorry,” He said. “I’d really love to keep you on but it’s just not fiscal for the company.”

“Well, thank you? I guess.” You hit end and slammed the phone down. How in the fuck did you get fired mid-training? Only you.

Back to the job boards. The endless applications and pointless competency quizzes. Not even a whole week. Not one. You were fucking useless. In another month, you wouldn’t even be able to answer the emails or calls for interviews. All your eggs had been in one basket and they’d just been dumped all over the floor.

Wednesday came around and you didn’t bother getting off the couch. Saturday too. You waited for any response from potential employers and sank further into self-pity. Steve called both nights. You deleted his messages without listening to them.

On Monday, you were having your post-nap nap as a knock came at the door. It couldn’t be the landlord, it wasn’t the first and you hadn’t betrayed your lack of funds just yet. It sounded again and you dragged yourself from the couch, blanket wrapped around your shoulders.

You opened the door a crack and sighed at Steve. He had a large paper bag in his arms and his usual smile on his face. You should’ve known you couldn’t run.

“Hey,” You muttered.

“You’ve been hiding.” He said. “Figured I’d come find you.”

“You really can’t take a hint, can you?”

“Never been good at subtlety. So…?” He tilted his head. “Kinda chilly out here.”

“Fine,” You let the door fall open and backed away as he entered. You closed the door behind him and he set the bag down on the table beneath the line of hooks. “So...you too good for us now that you’ve got a job?”

“Hah,” You scoffed. “I got fired. So no. Not good enough.”

“Shit,” He frowned. “I’m sorry, I didn’t--”

“What’s all this? Why are you here?” You pointed to the bag. “Are you always this stubborn?”

“Are you?” He retorted. “It’s an apology, okay? A nice gesture. I know those are foreign to you but hey, we missed you at the meetings. Even Dennis asked about you.”

“Dennis?” You rolled your eyes.

“You’re not invisible. You didn’t disappear that day.” He slipped out of his jacket and hung it on a hook as he kicked off his boots. “You’re still here.”

“Unfortunately.” You mumbled.

“Look, it’s my job to support you. And if you won’t come to the meeting, then I’ll just bring it to you.” He grabbed the bag and walked through to your kitchen. You followed with a sneer. “So, take a seat because we’ve got a lot to catch up on.”

After that night, you went to the meetings again. Anything to keep Steve off your back. You were not one to spurn kindness but you didn’t need his pity. Plus he insisted on driving you once you protested that the subway was not worth the change. He had a counter to everything you said.

The job hunt ran dry a month after flopping at the proofreading gig. Your phone was ready to go off grid and your internet would be shut down soon enough. You still had a half month left until rent was due, the last being covered by Stark Industries. You’d have to ask Steve if you could apply again.

It was embarrassing. Especially at the meetings. Everyone else was doing just fine. Dennis seemed more content now that he had stopped drinking, Marnie started teaching foods classes down at the youth centre, and Sal and Lucky were as happy as any owner and pet could be. And there you were, hopeless.

It was a Saturday. You helped Steve tidy up. You were as quiet as you were in the meeting. You cleared the table, folded chair, and he packed up the usual tupperware for you. You were at a blockade. You felt stuck. Helpless.

“What’s up?” Steve asked as he zipped up his coat. The city was bracing for its first snowfall as the air turned bitter.

“Nothing,” You tucked the container under your arm. “Tired.”

“I think I know a good cure for that.” He joked.

You grumbled and headed for the door. He followed. He locked the door behind him and pushed the cart to the small office at the end of the hall. He’d leave the rest of the food in the fridge their for the centre’s employees to pick at. You weren’t the only one living off of grief crackers.

“I can’t afford to sleep,” You huffed.

“You know, I’m always here to help. Offer stands regardless of how many times you ignore me.” He chided.

“You’ve done too much already.” He really had. It was starting to irritate you how much he was around. How helpful he was. Even through the bullshit of this world, he was the golden saviour.

The tension rose between you. You were quiet throughout the ride. You just wanted to lay on your couch and ignore the world. You were so close to done.

Steve pulled up and you lazily grabbed your purse. You grabbed the door and he shifted the car into park.

“Hey, before you go…” He reached into his jacket. “I want you to have this.”

He pulled out the envelope and handed it over. “Consider it an early Christmas present.”

“Early? Like a month early?” You eyed it suspiciously.

“Tis the season,” He slapped it against your hand. “Go on.”

You sniffed and took the envelope. You opened it slowly and pulled out the card with a snowman on the front. Inside was a cheque. Enough to cover you for another month. Rent and bills.

“No,” You closed the card and shoved it back in the envelope. “I can’t. This isn’t a gift. It’s too much.”

“Come on. I’m just tryna help you out,” He said. “You can’t just run from everyone.”

“I can, I can.” You snapped. “Because everyone left me. Do you understand? This...I don’t have anything for you, Steve. And I’ll never be able to pay you back, so stop.”

“It’s a present.” He insisted.

“You’ve given me enough. Really.”

“Then it’s a loan. I’m a patient lender, but I won’t just watch you give up. I know you wouldn’t be at group if I didn’t drag you there. You’d already be in a shelter. Don’t let go of what you have left just because it isn’t everything you wanted.”

You sighed. You bent the envelope and stared at it. You looked up at your townhouse and shook your head. “A loan. I will find a way to pay you back. I promise.”

“Alright. A loan.” He agreed. “Low interest, yeah?”

You raised a brow.

“A smile?” He chanced. You rolled your eyes and leaned back in the seat. You cracked a cheesy smile and he laughed. “Alright. You’re free for the night.” You opened the door and stepped out. “Wednesday. It’s our Thanksgiving meeting. Marnie’s making the turkey.”

“Wednesday,” You assured him. “I’ll bring a pie.”

Wednesday came quickly. There was a warmth to the meeting that harkened the season. Last year, none of your group celebrated Thanksgiving. This year, you all had a hand in the modest dinner held at the rec centre. Your pumpkin pie would make a good dessert after Marnie’s main course. Dennis brought the sprouts, Sal potatoes, Clara a casserole, and the rest added several other dishes to the spread.

Steve was beaming. You all sat around the table for your meeting. Your usual tense discussion dissipated to casual chatter. Almost as if nothing had changed. As if nothing was gone. You listened, content to enjoy the food, and caught yourself smiling at the scene. She would’ve like this.

You frowned and chewed slowly. You’d have to clear out her room soon. The walk-up was too much. You had held onto it for far too long. You took another bite and caught Steve peeking over at you. You tried to smile and looked away.

“Lucky would love to be here but I won’t have him flipping his stomach again. We had chicken last week and well, he’s a sneaky bugger.” Sal boomed to Marnie. “He’s doing well. The incision’s healing up nicely but this Christmas is gonna be a bit...cheap.”

“Oh yes, vet’s are not easy on the wallet,” Marnie added. “I remember when I said goodbye to Rosie. Such a sweet cat. Even got her cremated.”

“So, Sal,” Steve leaned around Marnie and you thought. You considered Sal’s harmless story but something caught in the back of your mind. It was nothing. You were paranoid. “Christmas, you said? You’re celebrating this year?”

“Well...I thought maybe. My sister and I, we’re the only ones, a cousin too. My sister...she had a baby. She was pregnant when it happened. I’ve been too afraid to see the baby but...I’m tired of thinking about death.” Sal said. His eyes sparkled. “Yeah, it’ll be nice.”

“You know, the last time I made a meal for someone else was that day.” Marnie began. “For my husband. I only cook for me now so...thank you all for letting me cook for you.”

A hubbub of thanks went up from the table. Marnie dabbed her eyes and so did Clara. Dennis sniffed into his cuff. You leaned back and looked along the table. Despite taking so much, the snap had brought you all together. Your little clan of strangers.

You wiped your face and stood. “Excuse me.” The others gave you a short glance but Steve didn’t look away as you retreated. You slipped down the hall and into the bathrooms. You locked the door and leaned against the sink.

You took out your phone and swiped through your contacts. You hit your mother’s number and waited for it to dial. After a dozen rings, it went to her voicemail. You listened to her pre-recorded greeting. She never answered. She couldn’t. It was all you had left of her. You looked in the mirror and hung up.

You tucked away your phone and pushed yourself from the counter. Your eyes burned but you sniffed back the tears. You hoped wherever they were, they were together. You took one last look in the mirror and braced yourself for your return.

You weren’t surprised to find Steve in the hall.

“You alright?” He asked.

“Yeah,” You shrugged. “Nature calls, you know.”

“Mmm,” He grumbled, “Just making sure.”

“Yeah, fine.” You said. “Better get back before they eat all the pie.”

Christmas Eve. Instead of wrapped boxes, there were moving boxes. Your holiday was spent packing. You couldn’t put it off any longer. The only bite you had got was a three-week pop up shop in the mall selling candles. That ended a couple days ago, right after you’d given notice. There was a smaller place, just downtown. Louder, grimier, lonelier.

The only room left was hers. You avoided it as you enjoyed your discount bottle of wine on the couch. A single lamp lit up the space as you listened to the empty street and the soft fall of snow. She would’ve loved that. A white Christmas.

At the last meeting, Steve arranged a secret Santa and another feast. You kept up your attendance only for the fact that he was your ride. He insisted on it. The few days you had tried to deny him, he threatened to sit on your stoop and miss is as well.

Despite his good intentions, his presence was turning to a nuisance. He was the ghost of Christmas past, haunting you, reminding you of what was lost.

But how could you deny him. You owed him everything you had. His cheque had kept you off the street and fed. And you had nothing in return. That was what the wine was for. To forget. To erase the ledger in your head.

You were on your second glass and halfway into your book when the knock came. It was already dark out. Just after seven. It could only be one person. You weren’t prepared for him. You thought he’d be nestled in the compound with his little family of heroes. At least, that’s what he told you.

You dragged yourself to the door. You could see his outline through the frosted slats of glass. You sighed and unlocked it. He smiled as you greeted him with a mutter. His cheeks were rosy from the cold, a beanie over his golden hair, and a fleece lined collar as his chin. He held a large black bag and a bottle of wine.

“Steve, I told you, I wanted to be alone.” You huffed.

“Not on Christmas Eve,” He asserted, “Have you eaten?”

You squinted. He knew you hadn’t. He knew you too well.

“Liquid dinner,” You assured him.

“Oh, so you started without me,” He smirked. “I kinda smuggled this out of Tony’s stash.”

“You really shouldn’t be here,” You said and leaned on the door. “Go back to your friends and enjoy your holiday.”

“You know, they’re not a very festive group,” He remarked. “It’s just dinner.”

He knew you couldn’t say no. Not after all he had done. You stepped back and waved him inside wordlessly.

“Just dinner. Then you go.” You closed the door.

“Well, I brought dessert, too.” He countered.

“Steve,” You warned.

“Alright, alright,” He chuckled as he set the bag down and untied his boots. “Merry Christmas, I guess.”

You ate in silence and finished off the bottle of wine. Without your dining table, you sat on the couch and used the coffee table instead. It was a lousy excuse for a dinner.

Steve opened the second and you rubbed your temples as your head turned fuzzy. Your tongue was thick and sour from the alcohol. You were tired. Annoyed. You wanted to be alone.

“So, you’re moving?” He asked as he poured you a fourth glass. “You didn’t say.”

“You didn’t ask.” You crossed your arms. “I can’t afford this place.”

“But you will be able to. The fund--”

“The fund.” You spat. “Steve, come on. I’m not an idiot.”

“What do you--”

“I can connect the dots, you know? Sal didn’t get any help to pay for Lucky’s shots or his surgery. He said as much at Thanksgiving.” You shook your head. “I thought I could pretend to but I don’t want any more of your help.”

He was silent. He nodded to himself and drank from his glass. “How long have you known?”

“Long enough.” You hung your head. “I guess I didn’t want to accept that I was that pathetic, but I still took the money, didn’t I?”

“I just wanted to help. To do the right thing,” He set his wine down and turned to you.

“Yeah, well I can’t pay you back. I got nothing. I spent my last ten dollars on the wine.” You hissed. “I don’t want anymore charity...and I want you to go.”

You stood, unsteadily. You clung to the arm of the sofa as you tried to shrug off the head rush.

“You’ll find something. It’s fine. I’m patient.” He assured you. He didn’t move as he watched you round the coffee table. “And…”

His voice trailed off and he leaned back. His blue eyes sparked as he thought. You stopped and faced him across the coffee table. “What?”

“You don’t have to pay me back in kind. There are...other options.” He leaned forward with his arms on his knees. “I have enough money.”

You stared at him. Your mind was tainted from the wine. You weren’t understanding him.

“The candle shop might get a permanent space in the mall, I could re-apply. I’ll figure it out.” You said.

“No, I don’t want your money,” He insisted. He slid forward on the couch as he looked up at you.

“What do you want?” You whispered.

“You know what I want,” His voice was low, chilling.

“Get out.” You snarled. “Now.”

He laughed but didn’t move. “Funny. Shouldn’t I be the one telling you to get out? Seeing as I paid the rent and all.”

“Fuck you.” You snapped. “And fuck your money. Fuck you’re stupid group. I want you gone. For good.”

“It’s too late for that. And I know you don’t have my money so...I mean, I don’t really see the issue here. I’m really just doing you another favour.” He grinned. “You’re lonely, I’m lonely, it only seems natural.”

“What the fuck is wrong with you? How many times can I tell you no?”

“And how many times did you say yes? Hmm? You took the money, you took the food, take, take, take, and no give.” He leaned back and rubbed his thighs. “I’m really not asking for much and I doubt your landlord or the next will settle for anything less than a dollar sign so…”

Your stomach sank and your legs trembled beneath you. You looked around at the bare walls and stacks of boxes. This place was a ghost of what it once was, like the rest of the world. Like you. Like this man in front of you. Captain America no more. Just another man.

“Did you know this place already has a new tenant?” He asked. “Quite a steal in this market. Nice place, nice location…” Your mouth fell open as you gaped at him. “And that little shit hole you got above the pizza joint...it’ll be a pity if they have a grease fire and it spreads. Shit, it might even get that little bookshop next door.”

“I--you’re fucking crazy.” You slurred.

“I’m a nice fucking guy.” He countered. “You don’t even have to sleep on the couch.”

“I don’t…” You were dizzy. The wine blurred your vision and your gripped your head. “No, you can’t.”

“It’s done. Place is mine, I’ve got eyes on the pizza joint, and most of all,” He inhaled as he puffed himself up, “You’re mine.”

“Why?”

“Because we’re the ones left behind.” He said. “So...you need more wine or can we get started?”

You were numb. Tingling with doom. The walls slanted around you and flames licked along your flesh. You wiped your sweaty palms on your flannel pajama pants and shivered. Your vision narrowed to a tunnel and all you could see was Steve. His victorious smirk. His blatant arrogance.

You found your strength at last. Rather, weakness. Fear. You edge around the coffee table as he watched. When you neared, he grabbed your wrist and pulled you between his knees. He gripped your hips and played with the hem of your loose tee.

He drew you closer until you were forced onto his lap, legs bent around him as he leaned back. His hands ran along your sides and he pulled you to him. His hand snaked up around your neck and urged you against him. He tilted his head up to press his lips to yours. You closed your eyes and bided his touch.

He held you to him, his other hand slipped beneath your shirt. His fingers tickled as they brushed against your stomach. He covered your breast with his hand and purred into your lips. He shoved his hand beneath your bra and played with you. He rolled your nipple between his finger and opened his mouth, his tongue begging for entrance.

You parted your lips and his hand fell from the back of head. He gripped your hip and guided you. He moved your pelvis against his until you carried the motion. You felt his excitement as it was restrained against his jeans. You hated the thrill it inspired in you. The glimmer you had not felt in so long. The base and carnal need.

He pulled away and gasped. He untangled his hand from your bra and pushed your shirt up your torso. You looked to the ceiling and lifted your arms. The bitter taste of surrender mixed with his spit. Just as quickly, he unclasped your bra and it joined your tee on the floor. You dared to look at him as his eyes drank in the sight of your nudity.

You held back the shudder and he touched you again. He pushed your tits up and together. He leaned forward and took your nipple between his lips. Nibbled softly with his teeth as you felt the pluck deepen. He groaned and hummed as he buried his face in your chest.

“God,” He fell back. He was flush and his eyes were dark. He reached between your legs and unbuttoned his fly. His fingers grazed along your pajamas and tickled your vee as he did. “On your knees.”

He nudged your leg and you slowly backed off of him. Your hands shook as you watched him unzip his jeans and he lifted his pelvis as he rolled both denim and briefs down his ass. His cock sprang out and he sat back with a sigh. You blinked and lowered yourself to your knees.

You got closer and gripped his leg as you tried not to tip. You were suddenly very sober but still unsteady. Your body moved clumsily of its own accord. Your hand slid along his thigh, past the top of his jeans and shyly touched his cock. You pressed your palm to the soft skin and wrapped your fingers around him. He groaned and shivered.

You stroked him and he spread his arms across the back of the couch. He sank into it. Your couch. As easily as he embedded himself into your life. This man had taken hold of everything you had. Of you. And here you were, paying him your keep.

You kept your hand moving as you gathered the saliva in your dry mouth. You leaned in and opened your lips along the head of his cock. You closed your eyes. His breathing hitched as you took him in your mouth. You pushed your tongue against his shaft as you let him deeper, still holding his shaft tightly.

As you lips met your hand, you began to bob your head. The task was easier as your spit dribbled down his shaft and you worked his length. His thick fingers ensnared your wrist and tugged it away. He slipped deeper and prodded at your throat. You struggled to breath as you let him further and you took as much as you could before pulling back. You kept your motion steady. You wanted it over.

He held your hand to his thigh. His purred as you sucked him, the sounds of slick flesh against flesh filled your ears. You gulped and gagged on him as he urged you on with whispered words. You sped up as you sensed his peak rising.

His hand left yours and he grasped the back of your head. He held you down as he twitched and you struggled to breath as he emptied himself down your throat. His cum was warm and salty. You swallowed it and he let go.

You sat back and wiped your mouth. You couldn’t look at him. He reached out to move your hand and dragged his thumb along your bottom lip, still wet with his cum. You flinched away and he grabbed your wrist. He pulled you up as he stood. He was strong.

He released you and shoved your pajamas down your waist. You were almost bowled over by the force of it. Your panties followed and freed them from your ankles as you wobbled around him. He ran his hands along your legs as he stood and snaked around to squeeze your ass.

“Turn around,” He leaned down as he spoke and nuzzled your hair. He pinched and backed away.

You did as he said and his hands settled on your shoulders. He turned you and guided you to the couch. You lifted your knees onto the cushions as your legs hit the edge and he led you til you were against the back of it. He traced the lines of your back and his fingers left you tingling.

You heard him move behind you. You peeked over your shoulder as he pulled his shirt over his head. You turned back and braced yourself. You pushed your thighs together and cringed at the wetness you felt between them. You waited, the rustle of his clothing the only noise aside from his heady breaths. Eager. Excited. Enthralled.

He touched you again. His hands warm along your shoulders and back. He explored the curve of your waist and hips. Edge along your ass and thighs before pressing closer. His cock prodded you and you tried to inch away from him. You were trapped.

He brought his knees up beside yours on the couch and you felt the heat radiating from him. His hand moved between you as he guided his cock along your ass. You gripped the back of the couch and tensed as the tip of his dick glided along your folds and back to your entrance. He dipped his head down next to yours. He kissed your neck as his other hand fondled your chest.

You gasped as he pushed inside. Just a little and you were stunned. He was thick and enough to make you wince. Yet, it felt good to be touched. Even by him. He went deeper and you groaned. He pulled out and thrust back in. Just a little. He took it a little at a time. Another inch and he thrust. Testing you. Your body. Your limits.

When he bottomed out, you whined. He nibbled at your neck and his hand stretched across your throat. He ran his nose up along your jaw and cheek and his hot breath singed your skin. He thrust slowly, your entire body rocked by his motion. His little moans filled your ears you bit down to keep your own from escaping.

His pace mounted steadily. His breaths were ragged as the sound of your pussy clinging to him mingled with the clap of flesh. His other hand covered your vee and he dipped two fingers between your legs. He swirled along your clit and you flinched. You squeaked and he repeated the motion. He kept on til you were mewling and your thighs shook around him.

“It’s okay to enjoy it,” He rasped. “You should. You don’t have to be alone.”

You shook your head and squeezed your neck tighter. Your back arched deeper as he slammed into you over and over. Your ass stung and you felt the spring winding tighter. You grunted as you tried to fight the sudden whirlwind.

Your drunkenness loosened your tongue and you cried out as you came. You quivered and dug your nails into the couch.

Steve’s hand slid from your neck and around your waist. He lifted you and turned in a single motion. He sat on the couch as he kept you atop him. His hands went to your hips and he guided you up and down his cock. Your back ached as he used your body easily.

His voice grew louder and louder as he kept you moving. Faster and faster. You were dizzy and out of breath. He roared and pulled you down on him completely. A warmth bloomed inside you as he came and he rocked into you from below; small, spasmic thrusts.

He stopped you as he panted and wrapped his arms around you. He pulled you back to rest against him. Still inside you.

“You can start again,” He said as his fingers crawled along your stomach. “We can start again. Here. A new life…” He stretched his hand over your skin as your blood ran cold. “A new family.”

#dark!steve rogers #Steve Rogers #dark steve rogers #dark!steve rogers x reader #steve rogers x reader #dark steve rogers x reader #dark!fic #fic #dark fic #darkverse #dark!verse #au #mcu #marvel #one shot #captain america

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the-world-of-jo · 3 years

Text

Perseus Gambit - A Lancer TTRPG

A story I wrote for a game I play... It won't make much sense if you don't play, but I am actually proud of this piece, so. (And it's too big to put in our discord, so. >.>)

When you realize how serious things are, you aren’t prepared. As soon as Doc gives you permission, you zip into the medical wing to snag a slate, indicating you’ll be keeping it with you for a couple of days then head to your favorite reading spot in Hydroponics. It’s there the gravity of the situation hits you, and you slump back in your seat, shocked with a feeling of helplessness washing over you.

And then you realize, you’re a geneticist. This is your wheelhouse, you *know* how to repair something like this on a cellular level. And then you’re cancelling your counseling session for that afternoon, promising to circle back with her to reschedule as you head back to the labs.

You manage to avoid her for about a month before Dr. Marchand shows up in front of you. Coincidently, you’re coming out of Noah’s quarters and it’s first thing in the morning, so you have a feeling you’ve been ratted out. You give Sparky a healthy dose of side eye, but you can’t help but spare a bit for Noah as well.

They both look way too innocent for your liking.

*_*_*

You have no fucking idea how to fix this. Not a single one.

Every sim you run comes back not only with bad results, but with *fatal* results. There are over 150,000 genes in a single human, and only 5% of them on average are coded. The Kennedy’s seem to have an additional 3%, all of those enhancing their strength, speed, sight, hearing, smell…

They were also disease resistant, so whatever was affecting Elias was almost absolutely genetic. But Doc had that much figured out.

The jarring ***”BONG”*** of another failed sim is followed in rapid succession by three more, and you sigh and close your eyes for a moment. Then, you get back to work, filing away the results and setting up new sims.

There was still time. Not a lot, but you intended to make the most of it. You ‘steal’ a few other unused computers and begin running sims on those, corralling a few sub alts to move them into what’s been coined as “Lee’s Area”. Someone even made a little paper sign and it made you chuckle.

You sat back and logged into a ninth research station, beginning to look up any new research methods or new genetic information that might have come available since you left Union Space.

It doesn’t surprise you that what you and Doc have been doing is light years beyond anything you find in published works.

*_*_*

The clock in your head is making ‘tick-tock’ noises at random times, and you know it’s an auditory hallucination, but god fucking damnit it needs to quit. You make sure to keep this away from both Drs. Marchand and Lakani, and for the most part, you succeed.

But now, signs of degradation are showing up in Noah. ***Your*** Noah.

You begin snagging more computers as they sit idle. One sub-alt has been stationed near your area for a couple of weeks now since you always seem to request him. Yes, him. You’ve named him Bruce, after Bruce Banner. It’s a nerd joke and it makes you smile, but nobody else seems to understand.

That’s okay though.

Doc tried banning you from the labs until you got some decent rest and food. And you tried, you really did, but.

In less than two hours, you were moving through the ducts, army crawling at times. You pulled a screwdriver out of your back pocket and undid the screws holding a grate in place, and moving it aside you dropped gracefully into the middle of your area.

Right in front of Doc.

Nodding at him in greeting, you pulled a sandwich and a bottle of Galaxy Dew from your backpack and set it at your research desk, then sat your butt down and resumed working. You left your slate on it’s home screen purposefully since your background was a picture of Noah holding Sparky (that you’d taken with permission).

Doc didn’t miss the gesture and instead of ordering you back out, he had Raum lift the restrictions on you and gave your shoulder a gentle squeeze.

You hear the doors whoosh open and in trots Sparky, a bag of granola and a bag of trailmix held in his mouth. He puts his paws on your knee and looks hopeful that his offering will be accepted. You can’t help but smile and pet him gently. “Thanks for the snacks buddy. I forgot to get dessert.”

Sparky looks quite happy as you add the baggies next to your sandwich.

You do actually eat everything.

*_*_*

Eventually though, one night, while you’re alone in the labs, the last ***”BONG”*** still fresh in your mind, you look up at the ceiling and ask Raum for help. You just need a direction, to know *where* to look. This random shooting in the dark bull shit is getting everyone nowhere and fast.

In your experience, ‘mad scientist’ types have a signature, a way they do things or a way they code things. You’ve been able to figure out which high profile geneticist has written a certain piece in journals, not by their wording but by their projects, and you can’t think of anyone more infamous than Cyrus Jacobi.

Or, as the medical world knew him - Josef Mengele.

If anyone from HA had even mentioned him, and that person had anything to do with their cloning programs, it’d at least, at the ***very least*** point you in a direction, because mad scientist types had a signature, and they liked paying homage to their heroes.

And then one day, Tane asks you “If you could have anything…”

And you tell him. You give him a laundry list of things that could assist you, and you realize if this information ever got into your hands, you’d be very very close to being arrested and tossed in the brig for *life*.

You think *Three squares a day, an actual bed to sleep on...If I handled Milaniko for ten years, I can handle that for life.*

And you wait.

***”BONG, BONG, BONG”***

The sound begins to haunt your dreams.

*_*_*

Noah is the only one who can coax you out, and he does so every day to have dinner with you and make sure you get some rest after.

The guilt gnaws at you when you slip out of bed well before your alarm goes off, and head toward the labs. But time is running out, and that fucking clock is getting louder and louder. It doesn’t matter that people are staring at you, and the fact that your clothes are pretty damn loose doesn’t matter either.

Your nutritional profile has been met each and every day thanks to protein shakes and bars, and Sparky is...suspicious. He’s not advanced enough to know you’re effectively working the system, but he knows *something* is not right. In his view, you should not be losing weight.

Well. You are. But it can be remedied once you figure this shit out.

Doc has been forcing you to take breaks, just for an hour. When your schedules align (and they do at least once a day and you know Doc is doing that on purpose and you love him for it), you spend the time with Noah in his office, grabbing a snack or dozing in one of the extra chairs.

The times you don’t line up with Noah, you head to the mech bay and straight to Beauty, always bringing an offering of donuts or some type of potato dish. Opal is kind enough to not turn you away, Beauty’s hand lowering to lift you up to the cockpit. You’re always sure to thank Beauty, then you sit next to Opal, your offering balancing on both your knee and hers.

She doesn’t question you, doesn’t make you talk, doesn’t comment when you know you’re muttering out loud. Sometimes she leans against you, her shoulder offering quiet support and those are the hardest times, when you have to clench your jaw shut to keep from openly sobbing and admitting how scared you are. How you’re not sure if you can figure this puzzle out, and as a result of your own incompetence you stand to lose not only a dear friend, but the love of your life.

You have a feeling she knows what thoughts run through your head, and you’re grateful that she doesn’t say a word. She doesn’t even comment on the tears that track down your cheeks only to fall from your chin.

You are so, so grateful for that, and you somehow draw strength from sitting with her.

It’s enough that you can head back into the lab yet again.

*_*_*

The next time the Dvorak drops out of near light, you’ve all but moved into the labs. You don’t notice the whoosh of the doors opening at first, but that’s because you’re all but actually absorbing the data on one of the doctors involved with HA cloning, who did indeed cite Jacobi as an amazing scientist.

When the sub-alt rolls up, you mistake it for Bruce, but then Raum’s voice is piped into your brain via your shunt.

A gift. From Tane.

You look at the isolated slate, then take it from the alt, thanking Raum profusely. You stare at it for a moment, the device seeming so small in your hands.

You rip the privacy screen from your own slate (and you may have actually broken the screen - Marcus will be pissed if he has to replace another one) and slap it onto the new one and begin devouring the information. There’s so much here, too much, enough that you have to ask Raum to help you sift through it all.

But...but...when he flags pages he thinks you need, your heart races.

Schematics. Not of the Kennedys, but of prior models.

Maintenance records, upkeep recommendations. Nutritional requirements, formulae for a metabolic stabilizer…

And then you see it. Written by the doctor who quoted Jacobi.

***Genetic coding information***.

You rip through the document and as you read, you begin to babble.

“Jesus fuck, it’s in the junk. They actually put it in the junk DNA, where nobody would fucking think. We need to change everything, absolutely everything, did he work on the...Ken...He did, he fucking did, he worked on the Kennedys, okay, so if that’s the case I’m betting he put them in the same places but there’s probably different locks, different fail safes but if we find one we can tweak it to fit other locks and we need to rethink everything christ we don’t have enough *time* and -”

Hands on your shoulder make you look up, and instinctively you pull the slate against your chest, protecting it. Raum has gone quiet in your mind.

“My boy,” Doc says. “You’re speaking in tongues.”

“We need to change where we look,” you blurt out. “They put the locks in the junk DNA. We need to change course, we need more computers, we need -”

“What? Brawley…” Doc’s eyes stray to the slate and you pull it closer to your chest. He knows there’s something on there that you shouldn’t have and he’s silent for a moment.

“Are you sure?” he asks, shaking you just a bit for emphasis.

“Yes.” Your voice doesn’t waiver.

He nods, then turns from you and begins barking out orders to other assistants and all the screens go black. It takes but a moment for them to reboot, blank screens ready for new directives.

You log into each one individually and set up sims, directing the machines to paw through almost 125,000 pieces of DNA.

You still need more machines.

*_*_*

A few days later you zip into the lab only to find your area almost empty. Your heart lurches from your chest into your throat, but Doc is there, turning you to the right and giving you a nudge forward.

There’s a new section in the lab. Huge, with bright lights, tons of computer banks, frosted windows and a door with a keypad and retina scanner for entry. And the name plaque reads “Brawley Stonehurst”

You pause only enough to look back at Doc and offer him a grin, but then you’re rushing forward, Sparky right behind you, the door opening with a quiet whoosh. There’re more computers than you’ve ever dared ‘steal’ on the main floor, but you quickly commandeer each and every one, setting them up for various sims.

The grating ***”BONG”*** is still the sound you’re constantly hearing.

*_*_*

It’s been a bad day. There’s talk of ventilation for Elias, and he really needs to come off of active duty, but he’s fighting tooth and nail to remain.

Noah hasn’t been able to really lead his classes, nor has he been able to spar with Masek at the level they’re both used to. Sparky has taken it upon himself to spend most of his time with Noah. When he asks you if this is acceptable, you say it is and rearrange his priorities to put Noah first and yourself second.

Doc finds out and he’s in your office questioning the decision, pointing out that Noah and Elias aren’t the only ones deteriorating, and you’re about to call him out on the pot calling the kettle black, but…

But…

***”BING”***

You both stop, staring at each other, and it takes you almost a solid minute to realize one of the sims has finished.

And the text, it’s not *green*, it’s not a *success*, but it’s...not a critical fail. The text is yellow, telling you that you’re on the right track but you need to tweak things and you can do that, the data is promising and you look at Doc and you can feel yourself grinning and -

***”chime”***

Again, you both stop and you know your eyes are huge, you know this because his are as well. It doesn’t take nearly as long for you to begin looking around frantically -

***”chime”.......”chime”......”chime”***

One by one, five different screens light up with green text.

*_*_*

Dr. Anath Lakani is fucking amazing. There’s a reason you’ve been starry eyed since he said he’d take you on as a resident. Your mind is quick, and you know this, but his…

Christ on a cracker, watching that man work is breathtaking for a science nerd like you.

He takes your findings and spins the results into formulae and then spins those into an actual therapy faster than anything you’ve ever seen. And you watch, because this is porn for you, this creating something to save a life from numbers and codes and this and that. In theory, you can do this as well, but not this quickly.

Doc’s skills come from years of experience, and you are nothing short of a captive audience.

Arrangements are made to have Elias come in the very next morning and he’s agreeable. His words were something along the lines of “What have I got to lose?”, and that just…

Your breath leaves you as if you were punched in the gut, and *gods*...

“Please let this work,” you whisper to yourself as you head home.

To Noah. Who is resting in his quarters and only quirks a brow as he looks up from his slate when you come in, then lean back against the door, just looking at him.

He’s pale, too pale, with shadows under his eyes. And you’re not sure if it’s fact or if it’s your mind playing tricks on you, but his cheekbones seem even more pronounced today than they did yesterday.

“It’s early,” he murmurs, and it is, not even gone 20:00 yet. “Have you eaten?”

“No,” you say, your voice coming out in a whisper. “I wanted...shower,” you finish lamely.

Legally, you can’t tell him. This is Elias’ business, not Noah’s.

But there’s that soft smile, the one that’s just for you. “Go on then,” he says. “I’ll have a sub alt bring something from the mess.”

“You gonna eat too?”

“I’ll have something.”

He knows you’ll pester him. Even though he really doesn’t have much of an appetite.

While in the shower, you think about the sims running for Noah’s treatment. You’re jumping the gun, but Elias’ is almost completely mapped out, with only one part of the therapy being in question. In theory, even if that fails, the results will tell you and Doc where to go next, but that clock is still ticking, loud as ever.

You must have been in there a lot longer than you thought, because the next thing you know Sparky’s sitting outside the shower stall looking up at you. Once he sees he has your attention, he sends a query, checking on you.

*Just lost in thought,* you reply.

*Supper is here! KenKen has lounge coverings waiting for you. They are nice and warm!* And with that, Sparky dashes out of the bathroom.

After drying off, going out to get dressed (and you don’t miss the appraising look Noah gives you, but you ignore it because no, you don’t look your best and you realize this but that’s not what he’s concerned about) and eating, you curl up with him, your head on his shoulder.

It’s quiet in a way that ships are, which is to say it’s not *really* quiet, but there’s no voices, no computers, no bonks or bings or chimes or anything. Just the sound of Noah breathing, and if you hold your breath, his heart beat.

“Elias is starting a new therapy in the morning,” you whisper and you feel Noah go still against you. “The projected success rate of the first two rounds is 98%, but the third is hovering around 80%. Even if the third is a failure, we’ll know by the results which way to go. Doc is prepping the bases tonight and tomorrow, but it’s still going to be close, I think. Depends if it fails if it causes any domino effects.”

He’s staring at you now, so you continue.

“I’m running your sims in my office, and two have finished. They weren’t successful, but they weren’t failures. I’m going off the assumption that since you and Elias are from the same...batch,” (that term burns in your throat) “that you’ll need similar therapies.”

“How,” Noah starts, his voice raspy. He clears his throat, then resumes. “How did you…?’ He can’t finish the question, and you don’t know if it’s because he doesn’t know what to ask or if it’s because he can’t ask, but you look up at him.

“Please don’t ask me that,” you whisper. He’s head of security, and even if this would save his life, he would be duty bound.

His eyes leave you and move to your backpack, the forbidden slate hidden inside. He’d seen it, before, noticed it wasn’t yours or one from medical and asked about it. You’d pretended not to hear him, raising your head and blinking, bleary eyed (that wasn’t a lie, at least).

*Raum,* you send out over the comms and his reply is almost instant.

*Taken care of.*

You know the next time you pick the slate up, it’ll be blank. But that’s okay. You also know the information is someplace safe, and all you have to do is ask Raum in order to access it.

When Noah’s eyes return to you, you’re already asleep, curled protectively around him.

*_*_*

When Elias’s third round fails, it is almost catastrophic and both you and Doc are scrambling to keep him stable until the last formulae can be finished. The two of you work well together, both talking over each other and accessing various machines via your neural connections. Nobody will be able to convince you that was the only reason Elias was stabilized as quickly as he had been - while neither of you is super humanly fast, you’re faster than the average person and with both of you working, it’s...harrowing, but it could have been worse.

Much, much worse.

But, the now fourth round is administered and it works, it works so beautifully. Further degradation is essentially halted, or at the very least slowed to a crawl and not only that, but Elias’ body can begin repairs. His stem cells are fine, and with that vital system working as intended, modern medicine only needs to give his respiratory and cardiac systems a boost to get healing started.

Noah’s therapies go so much smoother, and you feel a little guilty for that. Elias doesn’t give a fuck, and the day he’s taken off his oxygen feed his smile stretches from ear to ear.

Noah wears one similar to it, and you finally know what people mean when they say their hearts are so full that they’re bursting.

Physical therapy is something Elias is eager to start, and you’ve got your hands in that as well because you cannot and will not leave either of these men alone it seems. But in this case, it’s not a bad thing because while you’re in the gym with Elias, you’re working on your own fitness regimen as well.

His upper body strength comes back slowly, but his lower body is a bit slower still, if only because he’d been in a wheelchair for an extended period of time. Hydro therapy was a thing for a while, but eventually, Elias began trying to stand.

You’re hella impressed at his determination, and his positive attitude makes you smile. You’re there with him when he stands on his own for the first time, the sub alt holding his chair steady in case he needs to sit back down quickly. You’re aware Cap is in the room as well, but your attention is solely on Elias. It’s a bit of a struggle, and his face is flushed and his breathing slightly labored (his oxygen saturation is at 98%, so you’re not in the least bit worried), but eventually, he’s standing. He takes a breath, finds his balance, and lets go of the supports.

His legs don’t buckle. He looks down as if he’s having trouble believing it, then he looks up at you and grins that infectious grin and you can’t help but smile back.

Then you notice Cap, who’s watching, and you’re not sure, but his eyes look suspiciously bright. He looks to you and nods with a smile, and you look back to Elias and move to help him sit back down, then step away as father and son have a moment, Cap moving closer and speaking softly to Elias.

*_*_*

You’re sitting with the entire group, including Noah (because you asked him to come have dinner and he said yes because he loves you and he also loves Masek’s cooking because who does NOT love Masek’s cooking???) when the alert chimes at the door. It takes a minute for it to open, but when it does, Elias is standing there, grinning, and he walks in under his own power.

That night, the only sound haunting your dreams is laughter and you’ve never slept better in your life.

#Space Shenanagains #Brawley Stonehurst #Noah Kennedy #Elias Kennedy #Lancer #Perseus Gambit #I cannot spell but I did use spell check

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