I am endeavouring to keep this up to date, but I know my track record of updating such things is terrible!
I am ever thankful to the Thunderfam for being such a welcoming and encouraging fandom! Big thank you hugs to all of you!
(Links to fics below the cut to keep things short!)
Thunderbirds Fic
The Hug Shirt
My first Thunderbirds Fic! A simple item of clothing that has come to mean so much more.
AO3 link
What Happens in Music Class . . .
(Hopefully) a funny fic. Teenage Virgil and a friend + musical terms.
AO3 link
Dark Art
Sometimes art isn't beautiful.
AO3 link
Miss You
Deals with grief and loss.
AO3 link
Bandit
A spin of the whump generator wheel for Gordon produced this piece of wee FishTank fluff!
AO3 link
Stuck
Whump wheel spin for Alan. Again wee Tracys, and fluff more than whump! Big Brother Scott to the rescue!
AO3 link
Jasmine and Jade
Written for the 2021 EasterTag for bonsaiiiiiii, fulfilling prompts that included a treasure hunt and matching tattoos.
AO3 link
In Pieces
Young Virgil's mechanical curiosity gets him in trouble with his dad.
AO3 link
The Edge
A little piece of Earth&Sky
AO3 link
Melody Memory
Written for Flash Fiction Friday prompt FFF#107 Never Forgotten
Deals with grief, but not heavy - Tracy family fluff.
AO3 link
Deep Water
TAG Mini Bang 2021 collaboration between myself and @thatkidwholikesthunderbirds
Wee Tracys. FishTank.
AO3 link
Passing the Big Brother Baton 1 2 3
Wee Tracys. Advice handed down from brother to brother as each new addition to the family comes along.
AO3 link
Midnight Snack
Wheel of Whump spin for Scott. More actual whump in this one. Military Squid to the rescue.
AO3 link
Two
A look at our IR boys from an unusual perspective (with a focus on the man with the green sash!)
AO3 link
Up in the Night
For Flash Fiction Friday prompt FFF#117 Stars and Shadows
Young John
AO3 link
Tie Me to the Moon
Whump wheel spin for John.
Deals with grief/mourning. Funeral/Cemetery. Social Anxiety. Sensory Overload.
AO3 link
One Cold Hand
For Flash Fiction Friday prompt FFF#121 Cold Body
Difficult rescue for Virgil - mentions of death/bodies.
AO3 link
He Does
Very short snippet. Groggy Scott. John and Virgil.
The Watcher
For Flash Fiction Friday prompt FFF#122 Not Alone.
Injured John.
AO3 link
Day Moon
Short fic for Fluffember prompts Image and Clouds.
AO3 link
Your Hand in Mine
Short piece - Scott during another bedside vigil.
AO3 link
Mystery Rose
A Valentines Day/Birthday fic for Gordon about a gift from a secret admirer.
AO3 link
Mr Fix-it
A winter Olympics AU Earth&Sky fic - speed skater Scott and medic Virgil
AO3 link
Symphony
Scott gets a glimpse of the family inspired music Virgil carries in his head (and heart).
AO3 link
Breathe (original) (extended)
For Flash Fiction Friday prompt #145 Rise and Fall
Original is a 100 word poem. Extended version has more detail!
AO3 link
The Need For Space
For Flash Fiction Friday prompt #157, Need More Space
John makes a request Virgil hasn't heard in a while.
AO3 link
Charity Challenge
Inspired by @gumnut-logic's Dockside fic.
Scott gets talked into a charity night he may later regret.
AO3 link
Mini Molly
A moment of reflection for Vigil, remembering his Grandpa teaching him to take care of tools like Molly.
AO3 link
Superglue
Alan finds himself in a sticky situation and calls Virgil for help.
AO3 link
The Letter
For Flash Fiction Friday prompt #162
Scott finds a letter written by a young Virgil that stirs some painful memories and emotions.
AO3 link
Leap of Faith
For Flash Fiction Friday prompt #167
Virgil has absolute faith in his big brother when there's no option left.
AO3 link
I Don't Like the Duck Song
Wee Tracys fic. Virgil decides frogs make a better counting song than ducks.
AO3 link
Last House on the Left?
For Flash Fiction Friday prompt #171
Virgil's going on some pretty vague directions to try and find someone in trouble.
AO3 link
Like Your Father
For Flash Fiction Friday prompt #176
An unpleasant TI meeting for Scott.
AO3 link
Promises
For Flash Fiction Friday prompt #180 Promise You'll Write
Each brother makes this request of another, in different ways.
AO3 link
The Hug Shirt: For Dad
Jeff gets the Hug Shirt treatment this time!
AO3 link
Just a Little Setback
For the Whump Couch event created by @uniwolfcorn with art by @nourelle-tracy
AO3 link
Present For Scott
Little Alan doing his best to but the perfect 21st birthday present for his biggest brother.
AO3 link
Disney Princess Gordon
Written for TagMiniBang 2023 inspired by the art of @godsliltippy
AO3 link
The Stories They Hold
Written for TAG Secret Santa 2023 from prompts by @misstb2
Domestic fluff about Christmas decorations
AO3 link
Rippling Path
A FishTank moment for Flash Fiction Friday #240 Broken Moonlight
AO3 link
Dinosaur Bandaids
A little slip and Virgil needs some first aid
AO3 link
Manhattan at 2am
Exhausted Scott (inspired by the FFF prompt Lights and Sirens)
AO3 link
Hand Warmers
A bit of FishTank fluff for FFF prompt #279 Warm Hands
AO3 link
You Were There
Poem written as an anon ask to the RP blog of @scramjettracy
deals with grief, but more so with gratitude.
AO3 link
Two Choices
Some domestic fluff for FFF prompt #308 The Price of Peace
AO3 link
Thunderbird With a Broken Wing
An unresolved dramatic moment for FFF prompt #333 Broken Wings
AO3 link
Summary: Feared dead, Scott travels to Southern Georgia to find, if not recover Virgil and Vani. How can Scott handle another loss so soon after his father - how can his family? He just hopes whatever occurs, can be an end to the terror they've experienced the past 24 hours.
A/N: Thank y’all so much for the love you’ve shown this storyline <3 I’m glad y’all are enjoying it :) The characters Slicom and Saarc belong to @thescoutpilot and Zayne belongs to @kings-out-of-pocket-hell. Credits to @thescoutpilot for the banner <3. Another piece of fanart within! Please heed the content warnings below xoxo.
Content Warnings: Blood warning, descriptions of physical violence (punching, stabbing, shooting and gunshot wounds), character death, implied sexual assault, and mentions of child abuse, grooming and exploitation.
Chapter 1 // Chapter 2
The smell of carbon was sickening, despite the filtered air that filled his helmet. A heavy weight hung in the air that was equal to the dread Scott felt. Looking out to the charred remnants of a house, his thumb dragged over the glove pattern, lost in thought.
As he had announced, the moment Saarc and her team had landed on Tracy Island, Scott went straight to St Mary's with them. He had to scold and practically ground his brothers and Zayne for volunteering to come. If they did find Virgil and Vani amongst the ruins, Scott didn't want them to bear witness to the sight. A hand on his shoulder brought him out of his mind. Glancing behind him, Saarc watched him with gentle eyes. Rich brown eyes that were decorated with vibrant blue tribal patterns, complimenting her cheekbones.
"Did the fire crew find anything?" Scott whispered.
"The explosion happened around 3 hours ago, and they've only tamed the fire in the past half hour. They did find three charred bodies." Saarc looked at him. "All male, but from their observations, none matching Virgil's profile." He felt his chest ease slightly.
"No sign of Vani, or anyone with a similar profile?" Scott spun to face her. Saarc simply shook her head.
"No female victims. They'll get said bodies to the morgue to run dental records." Saarc squeezed his arm. "My guess is that Vani and Virgil likely escaped." Saarc motioned to the open farmland the property sat on. “ Dexter is canvasing the surrounding grassland, while Geoff is looking at local surveillance, and Donnie is calling local clinics and hospitals. Given likely walking speed, we've drawn up a radius of likely spots they would be."
"Thank you." Scott nodded and gently took her hand, kissing her knuckles before squeezing lightly.
"We'll find them, and bring them home." Saarc announced. Footsteps approaching, Saarc glanced to the youngest member of her team.
"What'd you find, Tank?"
"Just before the fire crews made their way up to the house, there was evidence of a couple of people moving away from the house. Someone was being dragged or barely held up, and the blood spatter was light. It was from what I'm assuming after the house exploded, that the blood flow got worse then stopped." Turning herself to a darkened streak of grassland, Dexter held up his finger. "Flattened grass heading north-easterly." Dexter began, motioning towards the coastline. "The trampled marsh suggests vehicle - it went off the developed road. At least we have a head start." Dexter looked between Saarc and Scott. He took note of the way the International Rescue Commander's eyes tried to anticipate what she would say next. "Provided they got into a car and drove, they're well enough, but the erratic driving could imply one was gravely injured."
"We move in that direction then." Saarc considered. "We follow the route until it dies down and then fan out across a mile apart and see if we can pick up any further clues. We maintain radio contact at all times."
"Yes ma'am." Dexter acknowledged.
"Commander!" Donnie called, approaching the group. Scott and Saarc, in true military fashion, straightened their backs.
"What is it, Don?"
"Southeast Georgia Health just called - confirmed sightings of Virgil and Nirvana. Taken in under the alias' Grant Grissom, and Claire Kodak just under two hours ago." Donnie announced. "Currently in urgent care, and in stable condition."
Scott let out a breath. They were alive. They were safe.
-o💚O🖤o-
3 Hours Prior
Vani can't remember when she had fallen asleep, or for how long she had her eyes closed. She only prayed that nothing had happened to Virgil in that time. Slowly bringing her eyes to an open, she took in the room. She felt the cool concrete beneath her, remembering how she tipped herself over.Nothing hurts or feels broken - if anything, all the injuries I do have are now numb. Which meant Vani had a greater chance of escape, and getting Virg away safely. Virgil. Craning her head up, she saw him laid on the floor before her. He was cut down.
"Virgil?" His head tilted towards her, from where he laid supine. "You okay?"
"I'm fine." He answered. Before she could reassure him that everything would be okay, the metal door opened with a screech. Virgil tensed at the sound, clenching his jaw in anticipating a blow. She assumed the fall down to the ground wasn't a smooth one - the blossoming bruises over his torso, and disproportionate shoulder was evident of that.
Footsteps approached her from behind. Craning her neck, she saw Slicom standing over her with a blade. A blade that was a part of a pair. A pair that had been handed down to her and Sli - one that bore the Montgomery crest and carried generations' worth of blood. His eyes bore no emotion, she couldn't sense his thoughts. But the grip on his knife told her everything. "Don't worry, I won't beg. Just," She glanced to Virgil and swallowed. "Make sure he has a chance to get out."
At the implication, Virgil started moving, albeit weakly, as if to get towards them and stop it. Closing her eyes, Vani didn't want the last moments alive to be immortalised by Virgil broken and bloodied. Instead, she thought about the Tracys; how they brought her into their family and treated her like their own. She smiled at the way Gordon and Alan made her laugh. How John, Tanusha and her would discuss various topics. When Scott used to tease and challenge her, then Sally and Jeff taking her side. And how Virgil made her feel safe and warm. How he always did. That's what she wanted to remember. Movement behind her implied Slicom was ready to strike, and so she took in a deep breath. Slicom's arm moved quickly through the air, the sound alarming to Virgil.
"No!"
But when the blade came down, it wasn't to her skin. A loud thud forced Vani's eyes open. Slicom ripped the blade out of where it just missed her chest, and was lodged into the back of the chair. He knelt and started slicing through the rope. Vani fell from the sudden release of tense bindings, then looked up at Slicom. He reached behind his person, and held out her gun and own Montgomery blade. Vani stood, reaching out and taking her weapons. "You'll have five minutes before this place is blown to pieces." He was giving them a chance.
"Come with us-" Vani began.
"No."
"Sli-"
"I said no Nirvana." Sli's eyes narrowed slightly. "Alex gave me a directive to burn this place to the ground once I was done with you both. And I am." He stepped to the side and stared ahead at the wall, the door still open. "Get out, and don't come looking for me." Without thinking, without considering how he would react, Vani wrapped her arms around him. A hug that was long overdue. She felt the way his body tensed under her, but he didn't move.
"I'm sorry I didn't fight harder to save you." Vani whispered, her voice cracking. "I should've done more." After a pause, Slicom wrapped his own arms around her and squeezed lightly.
"I'm just relieved you got away from it all." Slicom whispered. Pulling away, Vani wished he didn't. She nearly cried at the loss, watching as he stepped back and bowed his head. Turning a blind eye. Taking the invitation, Vani moved quickly to where Virgil laid, and undid his blindfold. Blinking quickly to adjust to the sudden brightness, Virgil groaned and looked up, his face falling at the sight of Vani. He knew she got injured on missions, but to see the result of purposeful torture broke his heart.
"Vani, what did they do to you-?"
"I'm okay Virgil." She gave a small reassuring smile, gently sitting him up. At the wince from uncomfortable movement on his shoulder, Vani moved to his other side and helped him stand. Virgil limped in her hold, body heavy and unused to legs after being suspended for hours on end. "We have to move, we have to get out." Virgil nodded, his eyes falling onto Slicom's back. In another life, maybe they could've been friends. Moving through the door, Vani looked around as they weaved through the halls.
Just before they could reach the front, footsteps approached and halted Vani's movements. Leaning Virgil against the wall, he groaned. "Do you know how to shoot a gun?"
"I do, but my shooting arm is currently out of order."
"That's good enough for me." Handing it to him, Vani drew her blade out. "I'll be quick."
"Okay…" Virgil groaned, dizzily leaning his head back against the wall.
Drawing to the edge, Vani clenched her jaw at the familiar drawl of Anton's Germanic growl. Watching the shadows approach as she hid in her own, Vani swung her arm out blindly and drove the blade into what she hoped was Anton. But it was another lackey's neck. Good enough. Hearing his gargled shock, Vani ripped the blade out and drove it again into his stomach, before pushing the lackey into Anton with as much force as she could muster. The sudden action alerted the second lackey. Drawing his own gun, Vani quickly ripped the blade out and threw it skillfully. At the same time a gunshot fired.
Crying out, Vani flew back as a bullet pierced her right shoulder through the clavicle. The second lackey also fell to the ground, the blade sticking out of his eye. Just as Vani regained her stance, a sudden force tackled her into the wall. Knocking the wind out of her, Vani looked up and was met with the eyes of Anton. His arm was braced against her neck, his hips pinning her body - a hold he prided himself in using on Vani throughout her training. A sickening smile, he drove his thumb into the gunshot wound, forcing a startled shriek and whimpering pants out of her.
"You thought you could escape that easily?" Anton laughed a little, leaning in. "You're never going to be free, especially not from me." Anton purred as he curled his thumb and pushed against the already shattered collarbone. Another pained scream erupted from Vani's throat, tears falling freely. Using whatever strength she could, Vani kicked and thrashed. But Anton's pelvis had restricted most of her movements. Looking dizzily up at Anton, she gave a final snarl before throwing her head forward and clamping her teeth on flesh over the upper trapezius, biting down with as much force as she could muster.
Anton roared, hand snaking through her hair and pulling at the roots harshly. Hair ripped out of her scalp, but she refused to budge. Biting down harder, Vani felt blood pool into her mouth as Anton blindly hit and punched her back. A strike to the side of her throat, loosened her bite and caused her to fall forward. Slimy hands threw her to the ground, Vani sinking into the wooden floors. Before she could even react, three gunshots echoed in the hall, causing her to curl into a ball. Footsteps approached her, and a hand fell on her arm. Letting out a panicked scream, she looked up, only to see a worried Virgil looking down at her.
"He's dead." Was all Virgil said, before holding out his good arm. Taking it gently, she hissed as the movement caused more blood to seep out. At the sight of her wound, Virgil discarded one ratty half of the suit shirt and quickly created a makeshift bandage. Despite being tight and restricting, his touch was gentle, and Vani leaned into it.
"Thank you." She whispered.
"Now we're even." Virgil gave a small smile, before stumbling a little.
"We're not even until we're out of here." Biting the bullet, Vani looped Virgil's good arm over her right side and helped him to the front. As they neared the door, Vani kicked it open. She relished in the cool air, how the smell of salt carried on the wind. Looking around, Vani saw an SUV parked a few feet away, and started to pick up the pace. They hadn't taken more than a couple of steps before a sudden force and loud bang erupted from behind them. The shockwaves threw Vani and Virgil forward into the dirt, skirting in front of the car.
A bright mosaic of oranges and yellows consumed the house in flames, the heat growing more and more intense. Slowly pushing herself up, Vani looked at the blackening silhouette of the house. And saw a lone figure standing in the doorway. Slicom. He reached into his pocket, and pitched the item through the door towards them. As it hit the gravel and skimmed towards her, Vani's eyes laid on a set of keys. Car keys. Looking up into the house, Slicom had disappeared. Lost to the wind. Vani swallowed and glanced to her right, seeing Virgil groan and sink into the Earth. Grabbing the keys, Vani moved quickly to open the door and picked up Virgil.
"Just moving you into the car, just hang on for me Virg. Please." Securing him in the back, Vani moved to the driver's side and threw herself in. Starting the ignition, Vani let out a breath as the car rumbled to life. Without a second thought, she shifted gears and slammed her foot on the accelerator, the car speeding forward and through the marsh.
-o💚O🖤o-
Every second Virgil could've been getting medical treatment and having a quicker recovery, she refused to move. They may have had an easy escape, but Vani was sure Alex's people would be surveying their every move. Vani must've gone to 3 different hospitals and sat there for 15 minutes, to canvas the area and then move to another different car to blemish their trail. Upon dating when and where they were, Vani had gathered they had been held captive for close to 15 hours in Southern Georgia. Quite a fair distance from Pensacola. She glanced back to Virgil, who had passed out from the rapid movement and shifting. She couldn't help but admire, depsite his injured state, how peaceful and calm he looked. She wanted to treasure this moment just for another second, but she knew he needed the help. And then, she'd run. She can't endanger him again.
Taking a deep breath, Vani climbed out of the car. Carrying Virgil through the emergency doors, she looked around the department, and a few nurses saw her. Recognised him. "Please, please help him." Vani pleaded. Everything blurred as the weight that was Virgil suddenly disappeared. Tunnel vision showed him being laid onto a gurney and wheeled away. He was safe. Vani spun on her heel, staring at the doors. Run. But she didn't. Her body didn't obey the command, and instead gave way underneath her. Voices surrouded her, as her body moved against her wishes. You're not there, Vani. They're dead, she kept reassuring herself. And with that comfort, Vani let herself sink into the linoleum floors and close her eyes.
-o💚O🖤o-
Current Time
"And there was no sign of them?"
"Not that we found no. Wherever Alexander and his henchman disappeared to, is a mystery." The British aristocrat confirmed. "We have their photos and are sending it through every database we can."
Good luck finding them. Vani twisted her mouth, and looked up amongst the three women who were by her bedside. When she had waken, the nurse asked for next of kin. And so she asked for Scott. It wasn't surprising that Scott and Saarc were in the state looking for them, and them arriving within 10 minutes of that call shocked no one. Once Scott saw them both, he called home to tell the others that they were safe and well. And then suddenly the whole Tracy clan had arrived. Thunderbird 2 sat to the hospital's south - to which Vani gathered Alan would've piloted.
I wonder how security are going to explain a sudden Thunderbird craft in the south parking lot. If they overstayed the permit, how would they issue a parking ticket. While the group all moved between the two rooms, Saarc remained at Vani's bedside. She had stationed herself near the door since she had arrived. Had watched the nurses work and help Vani manage the pain and discomfort. Making sure no one would hurt her in a site of care. For someone who despised the westernised medical sites so much, Saarc refused to leave. That's what made Vani grateful for a friend as loyal as the Enassian.
"I appreciate the efforts." Vani began. "But these men won't want to be found, and will strike out of nowhere. The only way we'll be able to anticipate their next move is to guard ourselves." Looking to Kayo, International Rescue's security, she nodded. "Our current measures, but more airtight."
"Understood. Is it worth arming the boys during rescues?"
"No, the sudden introduction of arms would give Alex and his men the impression they're out to attack. It would be taken as an invitation, a challenge. Besides, they won't need the weapons during rescues, and would further worry those they're helping." Vani reasoned.
"F.A.B." Kayo nodded, before rubbing Vani's arm. "It's good to see you alive and well, Nirvana."
"And you too Tanusha, I just wish it were under different circumstances." Giving a small smile, Vani watched as Kayo nodded to each of the women, and left the room.
"While there's not much Parker and I can do," Penelope began. "We will observe any galas and social circles moving forward. Even follow any leads we think could help."
"I appreciate that Lady Penelope. But I don't want to endanger you all. Virgil got caught in the crossfire and is badly injured." Vani felt her throat tighten. It's your fault. You will always hurt those you love. "Anything on them goes through me first. And even then, I will be the person who acts." Looking at the woman before her, Vani noticed the softened gaze Penelope gave her. Hurt that Vani was trying to work alone. Like she was pushing them away.
"I understand." Penelope leaned down and kissed her cheek. "You rest dear."
"Thanks Pen. Take care." Vani waved as Penelope bid Saarc farewell, and she and Parker disappeared down the hall. Eyes falling on Saarc, she quirked an eyebrow.
"Let me guess; you've got your team looking into this as well?"
"I don't know what you mean." Saarc shrugged, then sipped tea from her ceramic mug. "I am not responsible for the actions of my team, especially Geoff. Geoff is…naturally curious." She waved her hand dismissively. "Any information he finds is simply an accidental discovery." Information that I don't want shared just yet, Vani thought to herself.
"I think I'll go and see Virgil." Vani glanced to her, carefully swinging her legs to the side of the bed. Within seconds, Saarc was by her side and helping her stand.
"I would argue you both need rest," Saarc began. "But the Tracy boys are badgering Virgil, and you're one of the most stubborn people I know. So I'm simply going to just supervise." Letting out a chuckle, Vani pushed herself off the bed and leaned into Saarc's hold. Slowly shuffling to the room across the hall, Vani saw the familiar silhouettes of the brothers. Alan and Gordon were naturally at the head of the bed, talking Virgil's ear off. Scott was standing at the other end, watching with crossed arms as if monitoring his vitals personally. John, who was seated beside Zayne on the chairs, watched the others with silent amusement. Upon approaching the room, Vani knocked. All eyes fell onto her, but the only eyes she sought out were his. Virgil looked exhausted - whether that was from his injuries or his younger brothers badgering him, she couldn't tell. But he was safe.
"Hey…" Vani greeted Virgil.
"Hey." He smiled weakly, eyes sparkling at the sight of her. Despite what had transpired in the past 24 hours, Virgil's heart still skipped a beat, and his body warmed at the sight of her. Even knowing she never reciprocated the emotions, he still deeply cared for her. Even with the room being packed, she was the only thing that seemed to matter there and then. Was the only relevant thing in his existence. And it hurt him to see her so vulnerable, barely able to stand.
"Hey Scott," Vani began, looking to his older brother. "I hear the bakery down the road has a really good apple pie. Why don't you and the other's go and check it out?"
"No thanks Vani," Scott began with a small smile. "I'm good for now - maybe later?" Oh dear lord, how dense was his brother? Vani blinked a couple of times, his brothers looking amongst themselves.
"Scott, there's a bakery down the road, that I think you should go to, that has great apple pie." Vani repeated a bit more pointedly. Virgil tried to hide his smile, amused at the cluelessness of his brother, but also the way Zayne and Saarc looked at each other concerned.
"Vani I'm-"
"Oh Gods," Saarc groaned. "Scott, Vani wants to speak to your brother alone!" She rolled her eyes, as a laugh escaped Zayne, John and Virgil. Vani had to hide her laugh as she watch the cogs turn behind his blue eyes, then realise what was happening.
"Oh…" Scott admitted. "Oh okay. Yeah, let's go get some pie. Come on everyone!" As Scott grabbed the younger two, there were some protests.
"But I don't want pie!"
"I just ate lunch!"
"We're going to the bakery, and that's final!" Scott commanded, pushing his younger brothers out. John sighed and looked to Vani, as Zayne wrapped his arm around John's waist.
"I'm sorry for my brother. He's not the sharpest tool in the shed."
"Don't mourn for me," Vani hummed, tilting her head to Saarc. "Mourn for her."
"Touche."
"Don't fret, I mourn for myself." Saarc mused, before looking to Vani. "You'll be okay on your own?"
"Always am." Vani smiled a little as Saarc nodded and slowly pulled back. She followed the Starwelders as they trailed behind the rowdier lot ahead, the room growing quiet. Turning to face Virgil, she gave a small smile and walked slowly inside. "Hi." She greeted again.
"Hi." He smiled a little, shifting to sit upright on the edge of the bed. Sitting to his right, Vani looked over his being. Virgil's face had a couple of cuts, but most of the harm came to his body. His left arm sat in a sling, and was bandaged tightly to secure the joint. His middle was also bandaged, but did little to conceal the bruises that covered his torso.
"How are you feeling?" Vani whispered.
"A bit beaten, but I've had worse from rescues gone wrong." He lightly joked, looking down at her. Virgil felt his stomach twist at the sight of her injuries. She also had bruises and cuts that adorned her face, gauze over her arm and chest, where she was cut and shot. "You look just as tired as I feel. A lot happened in that room."
"It did." Vani watched him. "I take it you heard things?"
"How that man, Slicom?" He asked, only for Vani to confirm with a nod. "Is your brother?"
"Yes."
"It wouldn't have been easy to see him after all that time apart." He remembers what was said - including parts of my childhood. "And it sounds as if it wasn't a normal circumstance too."
"No, not exactly." Vani shifted a little. "This mission was personal, I was consumed with every feeling, and I dragged you into it. I'm sorry Virgil."
"For what?"
"I promised Scott I would look after you." Motioning to the room around them, Vani huffed. "And I broke it. Not to mention, you got hurt in more than one way." I don’t love you Virgil. I never did. "And that's the last thing I wanted to do. I'm sorry."
Inhaling a little, Virgil flexed his fingers before reaching across and gently clasping her hand in his, giving a reassuring smile. "You don't have to ever apologise. As I said; I would've said yes a thousand times, just so you wouldn't be alone." Her eyes softened at the reminder, her throat bobbing as she swallowed. "This wouldn't have been easy for you, so I'm glad I was there in some way." Nodding, Vani gently squeezed his hand in silent thanks. Then after a pause, she let out a sigh.
"Slicom and I lost our mother young. Alex took us in. Other than the drug and illegal arms trades, he also trains children into soldiers to protect him and his empire." Vani stared at the floor. "Ever since I was five, all I knew was a small, dark room, training arenas, and how to hold a gun. Slicom got the brunt of it all; being a neurodivergent boy. Alex wasn't appreciative of his "broken mechanics", as he called it. He would subject my brother to involuntary surgeries, torture, and every abuse you can think of under the sun." Virgil felt nauseous at the thought of Vani's childhood and brother being subjected to torturous military training. And what that man said in the room - I’m not above forcing my way with you, if it means getting what I want. Just how bad did things get?
"Vani," Virgil whispered. "Did anything like that happen to you?" At the question, he noticed the way her eyes shook, how they searched for an answer. A safe answer. Facing him, she gently squeezed his hand.
"I've endured a lot of things in my life, experienced a lot of hurt. But it was nothing compared to what my brother got, and continues to endure under Alex's rule." That told him enough.
"You've tried to find and rescue him before, haven't you?" She nodded.
"And each time I failed." Her voice cracked. "I hoped this time it would've been different. But it was foolish to think I could get that."
"I don't think it's foolish." Virgil wrapped his arm around her shoulders, and Vani sank into them. "I think you have hope, and it drives you to search and find ways to help him. Even if it means helping others along the way. And that's nothing to be ashamed off." As she lifted her head, she gave a small smile.
"Thank you."
"And you don't have to feel guilty about not reciprocating feelings." Virgil bravely announced, Vani's face falling. "I do care for you deeply and want you to be happy, including staying as friends. Your happiness is important."
"And what about your happiness?" Vani looked at him. Virgil was transported back into the hall - how she looked, how freely she behaved. What a stark difference to now.
"I am happy with you in my life, in any capacity." He gently hugged her, careful of her wounds.
"I lied." Vani quickly declared. Virgil looked to her in confusion. "I know you may not believe it, but I've had strong feelings for you, genuine deep admiration and love, for a while." Shifting her gaze downwards, Vani inhaled a little. "I know how my brother operates, I've seen him torture people for less. You declaring your love was a window of opportunity. I had to shoot it down to protect you. It wouldn't have done much, but if it guaranteed your safety for another second, minute, hour or day more? I hate to admit this Virgil, but I would break your heart in an instant just to protect you."
Virgil felt his heart ache - Vani had reciprocated those feelings. But she was willing to sacrifice her happiness for his safety? He wouldn't have it.
"Vani." Virgil carefully cradled her cheek and tilted her head up. "I know all about dangerous work, hell I go and risk my life everyday to save a few. You don't have to worry about protecting me."
"You protect everyone - but who would protect you?"
"I know you will, Vani. As I will stand by your side and protect you." Virgil reassured. "I know its hard being vulnerable, but I won't force you out of something you don't want to reveal." Gently stroking his thumb over her cheek, he scanned her face. "I want you safe and secure, and I can give you that. At your pace. No one else's." Vani's eyes welled with tears - a declaration as simple as "I want you safe" felt like he was giving her the whole world and more. "Is that something you want?"
"Yes," Vani breathed out. "I want that with you." Smiling a little, Virgil wiped the tears that fell. Placing a gentle kiss to her forehead, Virgil looked down at her as he always did - with love and awe.
@Maria asked: @augustofwhump 2025, Day 24 – Recovery, Gordon and @whumperless-whump-event Day Twenty: Here Comes Bad News: Scary diagnosis/ "I'll be right here the whole time."
~
Scott’s recovery wasn’t linear by any means. But being home, being around his family, gave Scott the one thing he’d been missing in the German hospital.
He was surrounded by people who loved him.
That love buoyed him up far more than the respect and treatment from the medical personnel.
Everyone rallied around him, both in person and long distance.
Virgil and John had needed to get back to their own lives. College was over for the semester and exams completed and John had to leave to go into quarantine for his next stint on the WSS. Scott had insisted they both go, that he would be fine and that they could talk frequently.
They still left reluctantly, Virgil flying them out and using the time to discuss strategy in regard to their big brother. All plans were pie in the sky, though, as they had no real way of knowing how it was going. Their Dad had promised to keep them informed but he wasn’t the most reliable when under stress.
And this was stressful. This was very stressful.
This was where Gordon and Alan had an opportunity to return all the love and care that their brother had shown them. They took their job seriously.
Very seriously.
Scott found that he didn’t get a moment alone.
He found it hard at first. There were nightmares where he woke up screaming to find his Dad was always there. And during the day one or other of his youngest brothers were with him, with Dad or Grandma hovering in the background.
Before…before Scott would have found it all too smothering but now, once he got used to the idea, he found it strengthening.
On bad days they were around but not near him. Sometimes hearing them messing around in the kitchen or watching an old Disney movie was enough to snap him out of whatever spiral he was going through.
The day he made it outside the farmhouse to watch Gordon swim in the pool out the back was a milestone that felt like an age in coming, but breathing the warm summer air and did something to him.
It lifted his heart and for the first time Scott felt like he actually had a chance of soaring again.
It was a turning point.
From that time on it was difficult to keep Scott inside. He spent mornings outside wandering the farmland and afternoons he’d spend time with Gordon and Alan. They’d walk to the wood and along the stream. The two boys would make sure that they were slow enough that Scott, still needing extensive physio for his injuries and using a cane to walk with, could keep up easily.
The fresh air and the daily exercise had Scott’s doctors making hopeful noises.
Eventually his daily walks expanded to outside their home. It was difficult at first – sudden noises still made him jump, he was nervous of people, even of people he’d known since they’d moved here.
But the townsfolk were kind people with long memories of how much Grant and Lucille Tracy had meant to them and with their help when he was out and about Scott began to progress even better.
Eight months to the day Scott had been brought home Gordon won gold in the Olympics and Scott was there in person to see it thanks to ear plugs and some light sedation that didn’t stop him celebrating along with his brothers.
The celebrations lasted more than one night…
But from the moment they arrived home Gordon switched from being Olympic obsessed to becoming a WASP. He’d have another seven months before his sixteenth birthday, the day he’d officially be old enough to join with his Father’s permission.
Jeff had listened to Gordon’s impassioned discussion on why WASP was a better fit than staying on at school and going to college. The service would ensure he finished his high school diploma and then went on to work on a degree of his choice.
So Gordon split his remaining time between helping Scott any way he could and prepping for his upcoming bootcamp prep day. Scott was a great help, and in going over his own experiences in the USAF it helped him to come to terms with his own trauma.
Scott had never been prouder when he saw Gordon descend the stairs in full WASP uniform, ready to leave for boot camp. He’d not donned the uniform since being rescued but that time was fast approaching – Scott needed to return to base and report in. There was talk of trials at the Hague, which he was frankly sick to his stomach about. His Dad had said not to worry about it but…how could he not?
All that was pushed out of his mind as his brother gave him the crispest salute, which he solemnly returned before pulling him into a tight, lingering hug. He whispered around the lump into Gordon’s ear.
‘I am so, so proud of you.’
‘Thank you. For everything, Scott.’
‘You’re welcome.’
‘I mean it, Scott. For always being there for me, for fighting my corner. For never leaving me.’
Scott pulled him closer and rested his cheek on Gordon’s cap for a moment, careful not to distort the headwear.
And then it was time for Gordon to leave.
Time passed.
Gordon graduated from NUB (non-useful body) to Dolphin quickly, acing the Officer school and coming top of his class, just as Scott had.
His progress within the service was meteoric.
As Gordon rose in the ranks Scott’s own progress was unfortunately nowhere near his brothers. Not that Scott was worried about that..
They both had news for their family.
Scott had been back to McConnell Air Force for almost a month. He was under assessment pending a review of his combat status. So far he was…managing. His flying was good but there were concerns regarding his behaviour while on the ground. Noises still startled him and he was withdrawn from the rest of his squad, preferring his own association.
When nothing improved by the end of the assessment period, when Scott was still refusing to see the mental health team, the brass reluctantly came to the same conclusion.
Meanwhile, Gordon’s went from strength to strength. So much so that they offered him a highly coveted role in the testing of new equipment while the kinks were being worked out of the latest sub for the fleet, Stingray.
The family had already began moving to the island, but this reunion was going to be the last one in Kansas. So Jeff had fired up the grill, Virgil had prepped the meat and Kayo and Sally had prepped salad sides. John, unfortunately was up in space, but he’d sent a message to both his brothers and a promise to be home in a couple of months if either of them were going to be around.
Scott flew into Eisenhower National Airport in Wichita first but Gordon wasn’t too far behind and the two took their family’s “hopper” plane home, the little runaround that had been their Mom’s until her death and that Dad had kept for when his boys needed to get home.
They were met on the farm runway by Alan, who hopped around them with the energy only a 11-year-old could have and talking so fast they couldn’t have got a word in even if they wanted to.
The meal was a great success and as evening turned to night and Scott carried Alan to bed, talk turned to how their respective careers were going.
Gordon was full of excitement but he knew that he couldn’t say what was going on, so he kept his news full of training exploits and downtime pranks. His enthusiasm and happiness was infectious though, and if anyone noticed Scott staying silent well, no one said anything. This was Gordon’s moment and his eldest brother was content to let him shine bright.
It didn’t fool Virgil or Jeff of course, and with a pointed look to their father Virgil eventually hauled the Squid off to bed.
They stayed on the porch, Jeff only disappearing to grab a bottle of whisky and two glasses. He poured them both a generous dose and they settled to watch the sky and Jeff waited for his son to open up.
It took another hour and two more glasses of scotch before Scott sighed and sat forwards, rolling the glass between his hands.
‘They’ll discharging me, Dad. Honourable discharge on medical grounds. They were very…nice about it.’
‘Scotty…’
‘What am I going to do, Dad? No one wants a washed-up pilot.’
‘I do.’
‘Dad…’
‘I’m serious, Son. You know we’ve been talking about International Rescue?’
‘Yeah. I remember.’
‘Virgil and I along with Brains – you remember Brains?’
‘I do.’
‘Well, we are well on the way to making this a reality.’
‘I thought that wouldn’t be happening for years yet.’
‘I know! But Brains is really a genius and coupled with Virgil’s know-how and John’s computer skills, we’re looking at being up and running in only a couple more years.’
Jeff rested a hand on Scott’s arm and smiled at him.
‘We’re going to need a test pilot quite quickly. And I want that to be you, Scott. There isn’t anyone else I’d rather have, even if we weren’t going to be secret.’
Scott blushed but smiled.
The rest of the night was spent discussing the rescue ships until Jeff yawned and Scott insisted they both go to bed.
Alan was ecstatic when Scott told them he was home for good so when Gordon left the blow was softened somewhat. The youngest was due to leave soon himself. He’d agreed to be boarded at Whartons Academy, a school in Massachusetts, one that would challenge him rather than the boring school he was currently attending. Alan had been gutted at not being allowed to stay home on the island but there was a little part of him that was excited to be out from his brothers’ shadows.
The next two months involved Scott helping move the rest of what they were taking to the island and talking to the rest of his brothers.
And then Gordon called home. While he couldn’t tell them what exactly he would be doing he could at least let them know roughly how long he’d be out of contact, and he managed to talk to everyone except John, whose return home had been delayed a couple of weeks.
They fully moved to the island a week later.
Jeff sat back and surveyed the ocean beyond the window. A sense of peace enveloped him and he sighed contentedly. Which meant he was a little annoyed when the phone rang. He was half-tempted to ignore it but suddenly a cold sensation washed over him and he couldn’t answer it quickly enough.
He hit the untested klaxon and his boys came running.
Ten minutes later they were flying as fast as Tracy One could go for Marineville.
They practically stormed the hospital. Thankfully Atlanta was there to meet them and take them through the layers of bureaucracy and to the room Gordon would be released to once his surgery would be over. He’d already been in for hours but they were still at it…
Atlanta kept them plied with decent coffee and easy-to-eat food and stayed with them throughout the rest of that day and the following night.
Eventually a very tired doctor appeared in the room. Everyone sat up, Alan firmly between Scott and Jeff and holding their hands tightly. Jeff gave his hand a squeeze before getting up to greet the doctor and Virgil immediately took his place and Alan’s hand.
‘Doctor. What news?’
‘Gordon is one tough cookie, Mr Tracy. He’s pulled through more than 14 hours of surgery but I have to warn you he’s nowhere near out of the woods yet. The next 24 hours will be touch and go…if he survives that it will still be an uphill battle.’
‘Understood.’
‘Mr Tracy, if you’ll come with me there’s paperwork for you to go through.’
Jeff looked at his boys and his Ma, who had been brought over during the night. Sally nodded and stood and the two left with the doctor.
The three eldest knew what the doctor had left unsaid. They were going to discuss Gordon’s injuries in more detail, something that they were very careful that Alan didn’t have to hear the details.
Speaking of Alan, he may have been eleven but right now he felt more like five, when their Mom had died and everyone was acting just like they were now. That same fear was welling up in him now and he resorted to the only thing he knew would help.
Alan practically crawled into Scott’s lap, buried his head into his big brother’s chest and burst into tears.
Scott’s arms immediately tightened around him and both John and Virgil added theirs so that Alan was enclosed in a brother sandwich. They stayed that way until their father came back.
Jeff couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride at how his boys rallied around each other, and he smiled at them when they noticed him.
‘Boys, your Grandma has gone to book a hotel. You’re all going to go there, get something to eat and grab some sleep. Wait!’
He paused as his older boys al began talking at once and waited for them to quieten down. Jeff chose to address Scott, knowing that the others would follow his lead.
‘Scott, we’re here for the long run and to be there for Gordon when he wakes up we need to be at our best. This is going to be a long, long road.’
‘Dad…that means you too.’
‘I know, Son. The hospital will only allow one person at a time to stay with Gordon until he’s fully conscious so we’ll create a rota. Alan? You can visit with any one of us but not on your own as you need to be over 16, ok?’
‘Yes.’
Jeff’s phone rang and he turned and spoke quietly into it. It was a short call and he sighed before turning back to his boys.
‘Grandma has found a hotel. You all go ahead and Scott, six hours’ time you can relieve me. Now I know, I know how hard this on us all. Sleep is not going to be easy but you need to try, ok? You need to try.’
There was a chorus of ‘okay’ and, after hugging him tightly, Jeff watched them leave. Scott hung back for a moment and Jeff pulled him in for a hug before briefly giving him a rundown of Gordon’s injuries. He hugged his boy tightly as tears threatened until Scott had pulled himself together to leave.
It set the pattern for the next six months.
The doctors kept Gordon in a medically induced coma for close to three weeks until the swelling on his brain reduced and they took the opportunity to do some of the numerous operations he needed.
Alan had gone with his Dad that first time but hadn’t stayed, bursting into tears at the sight of all the tubes and wires. They had prepared for that, and Scott, waiting outside, scooped him up and took him outside.
It was John who was sitting with Gordon when he first began to show signs of waking up but full awakening didn’t happen for another three days.
Scott was there when a frightened noise grabbed his attention and he leaned over for Gordon to see him while hitting the alarm. The doctors worked around him until it came time to remove the tube but in an unusual move they let Scott stay once Gordon had become visibly more upset when he’d been asked to leave.
It still took a little while for Gordon to be able to talk, but after a cup of ice chips he could at least whisper.
‘Wha…ha’p’n?’
‘You were in an accident.’
‘Th-the ‘foil?’
‘Yes.’
‘Tell me.’
He really didn’t want to, but Gordon was more like himself than Scott would have liked, so, leaning over so Gordon didn’t have to worry about moving his head, gently told his brother everything.
Gordon cried the entire time and Scott paused often, wiping his tears and holding his lesser damaged hand.
Eventually Gordon calmed down. He looked at his brother with eyes scared but trusting.
‘I’m scared, Scotty. I – I can’t move. My team are dead. My…my life is over.’
‘Hey! Hey, don’t talk like that. There’s still much healing you need to do. Nothing about your future is certain. You hear me?’
‘Ye-yeah. Scott?’
‘Yes, Fishie?’
‘Stay? Please? Don’t leave me?’
‘I’ll be right here the whole time. I’ll never leave you, Gordon. Never. Not now, not later, not ever.’
Recovery was going to be a bitch but Gordon knew if Scott could do it then he would be able to too.
The oldest Tracy brother sighed and desperately tried not to shift position. It was hard, though, he had been sitting on the floor for a best part of an hour, his movement restricted by the fact that he had three brothers leaning on him. Alan was sitting between his outstretched legs, curled up and leaning back on Scott's chest, fast asleep. He had spent so many hours that evening looking scared that Scott couldn't even bring himself to tug his little brother's thumb out of his mouth. Gordon was also asleep, curled into Scott's side. As with Alan, the older brother had his arm looped around Gordon's chest, stopping him from slipping and providing some sort of reassurance to Scott that his brother was still there, that he hadn't just vanished without Scott noticing. John had come and sat down next to him after Alan had fallen asleep. The second-oldest had an expression that just seemed to mirror the way Scott was feeling, and he wasn't sure whether the exact same look would be evident on his own face. John might have been determined to keep his brother company, but it hadn't taken long before he had slipped to one side, his head landing on Scott's shoulder as he too fell asleep.
Scott knew there was no way that he would be getting any rest, despite the fact that it had to be midnight at least. He couldn't get his father's look out of his head when only four of his sons had turned up for dinner, the oldest two looking drawn and haggard despite the fact that it had only been a few hours since he had last seen them. He had apparently only just heard that his boys had been looking for him all afternoon, then enquired where Virgil was. A slight sharpness had slipped into his voice in a familiar way that normally meant they were in trouble, but Scott had just glanced at the floor.
Never had a silence stretched on for as long as it did than when Scott admitted that they had no idea. Before Jeff could grow angry or assume that Virgil was just misbehaving, John had quickly cut in, explaining how they had searched everywhere and there was simply no sign of him. It was as if Virgil had just vanished. Scott wasn't sure he had ever seen the colour drain from a man's face as quickly as it did in that moment. Dinner was forgotten, even Alan claiming that he wasn't hungry, and the family had found themselves in reception whilst Jeff angrily demanded to speak to security.
Quite a distance away, 21 paused just long enough to readjust his limp burden. As he did so, a wisp of moving air brushed against his face, carrying with it the smell of wet ferns and dirt, and his heart sank.
They were almost out.
He’d first realised they were getting closer to the surface when the cloying darkness started to thin. First it was cut by the blue-green dots of light that were glow worms on the hunt, then it gave way to a slow but steady increase in ambient light, to the point he no longer needed The Hood pointing a torch at his feet so he could see where he was going. ‘Yes it’s been slow going, but we’ve still been going. If help hasn’t caught up yet… we’re in trouble.’
“Keep moving.” The order from behind him was a growl.
“I’m trying!” 21 snapped back, but he obediently lurched back into motion - only to stagger when the body across his shoulders shifted and the hand he was holding as part of the carry flexed. 21 immediately exaggerated the stagger to cover that movement, The Hood had proved himself far too attentive to details, and he really didn’t want him picking up on Scarlet waking up. As he resumed walking he squeezed Scarlet’s hand and was heartened to get a squeeze in reply: Player Two had just joined the game.
This was a vast improvement on things and he was going to take full advantage of it.
“Be more careful or I will dispose of you!” The Hood snarled at him.
“This isn’t exactly a stroll through the countryside!” 21 retorted, forcing his brain to work faster as he plotted out what he could do. He had felt the shape of Scarlet’s forearm knife under his sleeve as soon as he picked him up, back at the Mole, but from this position the boot knives were much easier to get at. ‘Yes, he’s still got Virgil’s pistol, but if I can surprise him, that’s not going to help as much as he thinks it will.’ An idea struck and he surreptitiously tapped Scarlet’s hand, hoping that Scarlet was awake enough to pick up on the cue. “Look, I need to put him down, just for a minute.”
“You will n-” The Hood started, but stopped when Scarlet groaned softly. “Put him down, now! Then get out of my way!” The Hood ordered, his curiosity clear.
21 completely understood it - to be honest he also wanted to witness Scarlet reviving, if only to better get his head around the miracle that it was - but he didn’t let an iota of that or anything else show as he found a good spot. He crouched with some difficulty and laid Scarlet down on the ground, doing his best to not drop him or bounce his head off the rocks…and at the same moment Scarlet’s eyes flicked open, 21 whipped the knife out of Scarlet’s right boot and twisted to ambush The Hood.
But hampered by his injuries, he was a split second too slow.
The flash of light off metal was ample warning. Lunging back out of knife-range, The Hood reached for his power before the man could finish straightening up. He locked eyes with 21, focused his power into a lancehead, and plunged it deep into the agent’s mind.
21 was strong, very strong, but Hood could already feel him weakening, his hastily raised defences crumbling and failing despite his desperate attempts to shore them up. The Hood permitted himself a smile. If the agent had been at full strength then he might have been able to withstand him, but 21 was vulnerable - concussed, tired, and injured - and these were all weaknesses that he would exploit fully.
There!
A crack in his defences, a small one yes, but it was more than enough for one with his powers.
He proverbially squirmed into that crack with all the flexibility of an octopus, and with that one action he was inside the man’s mind. 21 sagged, his face blank, and The Hood smirked. Control was his, and the entire exchange had only taken seconds.
“NO!” Scarlet rolled to his feet, drawing the short knife from his sleeve as he did so. “21! Focus! Fight him off!”
The Hood gave a crocodilian smile and pointed at the Spectrum officer like the very finger of doom. “21! Kill Captain Scarlet!”
‘Fuck!’ Scarlet immediately danced back - or at least he tried to - cursing the lingering sluggishness as he stumbled over the uneven ground. It was like he was walking through mud! By comparison 21 stalked him with a robotic precision that was only made more eerie by the complete lack of expression. Scarlet considered his options, found them profoundly lacking, and flipped his knife into a reverse hold to make a yawara of it. ‘I have to take him down. Sorry 21, I’ll make this up to you later.’
Closing with 21, he raised his arm to strike, an action that exposed his side - and exposed the weakness that he’d inadvertently shown 21 only weeks ago, the vulnerability in the armoured tunic that he wore like a second skin. A vulnerability that 21, unhampered by the usual restrictions from a mind controlling its own biological shell, immediately capitalised on.
Moving inhumanly fast, 21 darted in, the knife in his hand arching towards the side seam in Scarlet’s tunic. Just like the mission in New York it slipped through the suede and fabric, slid between the armoured plates, and plunged between ribs with deadly effect. Scarlet gasped and stiffened, grabbing onto 21 in a parody of a close embrace as his strength bled out of him… but just over The Hood’s shoulder he spotted something that made him crack a bloody smile.
“Kingdom!” he wheezed, pointing a shaking hand at The Hood. “Sic ‘im!”
Harmony stumbled through the empty long hallway. She clutched at her right side, trying to stop the red stain from spreading further on her white uniform.
I need to find them before Black finds them.Harmony tried to ignore the pain, but it was hard to ignore the throbbing pain on her side. She turned left, and she staggered into another long hallway. Harmony heard voices up ahead, it sounded like Scarlet and Blue. She slowly made her way towards the voices.
Harmony's world moved on its own. She tried to walk off the vertigo, but in the end she tripped on nothing. Harmony fell hard onto her knees. She let out a shaky breath as she tried to get back onto her feet. She didn't have the strength to stand.
The voices got closer, and Scarlet noticed Harmony first. His smile turned into a frown as he realized something was wrong.
"Harmony!" Scarlet exclaimed, his voice was laced with worry. He rushed to the poor woman's aid. Scarlet took note of Harmony's deathly pale complexion, and then his gaze moved down to Harmony's side. His eyes widened as he noticed the blood on Harmony's hand and on her uniform. Scarlet's frown deepened as he got on his knees to get a better look at Harmony's wound.
"Harmony, who did this to you?" asked Scarlet, there was a slight murderous tone to the way he spoke.
"Black." There was a pause as Harmony tried to get her bearings as her vision spun. "Black is here."
Harmony felt her body sway back and forth, and then everything went black.
They spent the next few hours downstairs on the ground level. Sitting together in the sunken living room, enveloped by the warmth and comfort of the geothermic heaters along with the fireplace that was burning wood behind them.
Scott had drained most of the time listening to Alan talk about his university experiences. Most of the conversation was about friends and classmates, as well as vents regarding group assignments and coding large algorithmic models that required keeping his computer running overnight, just to be sure that it worked. There had been a lot of venting; so much so, that Alan found himself completely collapsed on the red beanbag, his energy having been depleted so quickly.
Then, there was the missions that he had been on recently. The story about Alan's skydive from Thunderbird One last week had Scott gripping his throw blanket tightly. He tries his best to make it sound more casual than it was intense. Especially since John, Virgil and Gordon still haven't recovered from watching the footage back after needing information for the reports.
The astronaut's rephrasing seems to have done the trick, as Scott's first question among being told the story is: "Is my ship okay?" A question that he finds himself forced to ask.
Alan smiles back with a few nods he answers positively, "Dad and Virgil had a long conversation about setting the maintenance bots out to prioritise her again, she's looking way better now."
Satisfied with such an answer, the temporarily retired commander leans backwards into the cushions of his couch, his thoughts turning to memories of Virgil and imagining how his brother and father must've reacted to such a mission. Then, he looks back at Alan and sits upon a sudden realisation. "You should probably head back soon," Scott warns, "Virgil's probably going to check on you in a few hours."
Alan hums, admitting his situation; yet, considering this as an opportunity to steer the subject. "You know, he's been acting really weird lately, so has Gordon. I blame you."
"Me? What did I do? What's up with them?"
"They're more protective," he complains, "like, they think they need to make up for your absence. And also, Virgil keeps trying to feed me… Which is annoying because I've kind of started an extra circular hobby that sort of needs me to lose weight… But it's hard to lose weight when you live with Virge." The young astronaut hopes he's being vague enough to not stir up some questions.
In thought, Scott nods. Then, after a moment, he answers, "Virgil's tryna feed you cause he thinks you're gonna turn out broad like him." He shrugs. "He's not wrong, either. I did the scans."
"Scans?" Alan sits up.
"Yep. You're physique's going to change a lot in a few years…" The elder brother smirks, recalling how Alan had mentioned his 'extra curricular hobby' just to add: "Which is probably not helpful for your motorsports training."
Alan's eyes widen. "Did Dad tell you?"
"No, I found out through my wallet."
"Damn…" He sags. "I thought I was being subtle about that…"
"You were subtle, for the most part," Scott reassures, "but, you weren't as subtle in paying me back…" His face crinkles. "Bart Shepherd? Really? That's the best you could do?"
The fact that Scott was more disappointed in his brother failing to cover his tracks, than he was about his little brother trying to hide a secret from him, should come as a surprise. Except, given the stories that Alan had heard from Scott regarding the last few days, the reaction just shows to him how much the elder needed this holiday. Alan grins, shuffling in his bean bag. "Hey!" He defends, "it's a sweet name!"
"Al, it's literally just you. You weren't even trying." Scott dully retorts.
"I thought it was good." He huffs.
Scott only shakes his head, then sighs. "It's alright, I'll get you a better one when you have to do something like that again."
There's a short scoff from Alan before they sit together in silence again, Scott's eyes not leaving the little brother who looks away to ponder. Eventually, the two make eye contact again, before the younger abruptly stands up. "Yeah… Virgil's gonna be mad if he finds out."
Scott chuckles, following to a stand. "No kidding." He guides the younger up the short step and towards the front door.
"He needs to stop babying me." Alan mutters.
"He's not babying you," justifies Scott reassuringly. "He's like that for everyone, you've seen how he gets whenever he caught me awake in the middle of the night." He opens the door. "He's like that with Dad, too."
"I guess…" Mumbles Alan, making his way past Scott and stopping just at the doorframe. "Maybe it's just a little more annoying nowadays."
"Probably because you've become more used to living independently in uni." Responds Scott. "You were comfortable with Virgil when you were used to living on the Island, but now that you're more comfortable with the mainland, it's weird." He smirks and turns his eyes back to Alan's. "Speaking of comfort, are you fine walking home by yourself?"
"I'm good." The young astronaut smiles back, he pops his head out the door frame to admire the front side, it's a giant space— almost fit for a driveway— surrounded by shrubbery and trees all over. "By the way, have I mentioned that this is a nice spot?"
Scott sighs. "Yes. Yes you have. Multiple times, in fact."
Grinning at the tired reaction, Alan darts outside, twirling to his brother with a challenging beam. "Well, my spot is still better than yours, so…" He confidently shrugs with his hands spread about.
Scott raises an eyebrow while leaning onto the opened door to face him, and crosses his arms. "Mine has a fridge."
Alan outwardly laughs, spinning around loosely. "Sure!" He waves back at the older brother with his grin still wide. "I'll see you next week, Scooter!" before rushing off as he hears Scott grumbling before the door closes. Something about the balcony being mentioned.
Chapter 19: Lady Penelope, now barefoot and completely relaxed, let out a sigh of relief. “I adore Alan, but I don’t think I’ve ever seen him so silent before.”
