Cait stood in front of the mirror. She looked at her eye, trying to focus on the new details she hadn't gotten used to yet. Things she didn't recognise in herself still, trying to align her mental image of herself with this new reality. The cut through was clean, and she didn't know how she felt about it, still trying to get used to it.
Her vision wasn't completely gone, but without an eyepatch her eyesight was significantly worse. And choosing to keep her eye rather than have it removed meant perhaps she might find some way to heal it.
But until that day she would have to get used to the pale white slicing her blue iris. Try and get used to the flickering; she did to try and keep her balance when the light caught her eyes wrong. Notice the cut from the corner of her eyes was like a flick of eyeshadow.
In all honesty, she had got away very lightly. She was lucky. But that didn't make getting used to this any easier. This wasn't her face anymore. She looked different, and she could hardly look at herself without her eye twitching and a deep pain behind it radiating through her skull as she tried to force it to focus.
Cait winced as the headache began, rubbing her eye to try and soothe the pressure underneath. It didn't do much, but she didn't want to put her eyepatch back on just yet. It was better to try and get used to seeing herself now rather than try and hide the issue away when there was no one around to see it.
Well, not no one. Vi walked out of the shower, towel wrapped around her waist as she rubbed her hair with the end of it. "Cait?" She asked, noticing that she was in pain, before quickly going behind her and starting to rub her scalp. "Headache again?"
The question was simple enough, but the notion this was becoming so common in their lives brought a sense of guilt with it. "I'm fine. I was just trying to look at myself without the eyepatch." She explained, even though realistically she didn't need to.
Vi sighed. "You don't have to. I'm fine." Cait repeated, not wanting Vi to be upset with her. "I'm honestly fine." She reached for her eyepatch and slipped it back on, pushing Vi's hands away.
"Cait, that's not—" Vi sighed again. "I'm just tired. Not with you or anything; it's just been a long day. It's okay." She assured her, stroking the patch with her thumb.
"But it's not. I'm an invalid now. It's not what you signed up for with me." Cait said, like this was some kind of business meeting about profit margins.
"Cupcake, listen for a sec? I love you. I want you. And I signed up for all the rough stuff too. It's not like I'm a walk in the park either." She teased with a chuckle, flipping up the patch and then kissing her eyelid. "It's okay. It's all okay."
Cait cracked a small smile at the assurance. "When did you get so responsible with words?" She teased back, giving her a nudge.
"Oh, really? I'm responsible now. Would a responsible person do this, huh?" Vi then grabbed Cait, tackling her to the bed. Cait didn't fight back but did roll to try and get on top. Vi was holding her down, though, so she just kissed her, holding her face.
It disarmed her enough that Cait could get on top. "Not too bad for someone who's half blind, hey?" She teased before laying down against Vi's chest. She could get dressed in a minute. For now, they could just hold each other; that was all she wanted to do.
~~~~
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The lights seemed too familiar tonight in the ring. Vi knew she wasn't supposed to be here, but she knew this was what she had to do. Paint smeared over her face and rubbed into her hair, hoping it would wash out this evening or her pillows would stain, and she didn't need the extra hassle.
But none of that mattered since she knew she was going to make a killing tonight. The fight was simple enough, and she had managed to convince the crowd that despite her muscles she was weak and injured or perhaps even getting sloppy. And with that, she knew the bets against her would be high, so when she finally won, she would get a better payout in total.
The guy was bigger than her, but that had never been a problem before. She lifted her hands, rubbing her thumb along the inside of her hand wrap. It probably wasn't going to do much against bone, but she was going to try. The bell went and she started with a soft bounce as the massive idiot trudged towards her.
She was light enough on her feet; the first punch managed to miss completely. Vi then ducked behind him and gave a small burst of fast hits into his side. The opponent groaned slightly and slugged a wide hook in her direction, which she managed to duck, but she didn't realise he was so sloppy as to drop his hand anyway, catching her shoulder as it fell. The clip hurt, but it wasn't anything hard, and it just annoyed Vi enough to deliver another blow against his chin, knocking the other guy back into a wall. Vi had this in the bag now.
That was until a gunshot was heard, loud and echoing through the arena. Everyone fell silent, as it was a mighty sound and not the noise of some rabble passing through. Vi looked up and felt her face drain. Shit.
Caitlyn Kiramman. Dressed in full uniform with her gun in hand as she stared down at Vi. Her eyepatch was fitted perfectly, and still her gaze cut through the crowd. "Don't you all have better places to be?" She asked, and Vi thought stupidly in that moment it would be better to run, attempting to scatter, but Cait just dropped a shot at her feet. Vi stopped, breathing heavily.
"Inside now." She said it with calm control, but Vi knew what was underneath. There was chattering from the crowd, something about Vi getting told off by her wife or how she was getting carted back, and even some laughing, and that was what Vi hated most of all. She didn't like people talking behind her back.
The door slammed and Cait put her gun on the bed. "What the bloody hell were you thinking!" Cait said, her voice not so loud as to yell but with that tone she often reserved for serious blunders during active missions. And this wasn't a mission, so Vi was really in the shit now. There was nowhere to run anymore.
"Or were you not thinking at all?" Vi kept her eyes down. "Right. So now you're not even talking to me? Do you have any idea how worried I was waking up without you in bed with me? No note. No message. Nothing. You were gone and I thought you could have been kidnapped. You could have died. I almost sent out the enforcers to find you, Violet!" Cait put her fingers to her brow, breathing deeply.
"Vi, you need to talk to me. What's going on? Why are you here again with that stupid make-up on?" Cait reached out and smudged it down her cheek more. "Even if it is kind of hot." She teased, trying not to be all bad.
"You wouldn't get it." Vi said, pushing her hand away and going to the sink. The room was tiny, but she was more than used to it. The water was cold, and she cupped her hands, dunking her face in with a small breath after.
"Try me."
Vi sighed. "I needed the money." She knew Cait wouldn't understand, and she knew the questions that were about to follow, and in all honesty she didn't want to hear them but knew that Cait needed to say it all.
"What?" Cait asked, genuinely confused. "What do you even mean by that? We have money. We aren't struggling; we have food and a home and everything, and you even have a job with the government and enforcers – I offered you a job to work training soldiers, and you didn't want to take that. I don't understand; it's not logical at all—"
"That's because you won't ever understand, Cait!" Vi snapped, water droplets being flung across the room.
The silence was heavy as Vi caught her breath.
"It's your money. I don't want to be dependent on you. If I work there with a job you get me, then it's still your money; I still owe it to you. This would have been mine. This would have been completely mine. Mine to spend on what I want, and it would actually mean something to spend it rather than fishing money out of an endless mountain of wealth." Vi didn't like speaking like this, but it did feel like she didn't have a choice.
Cait didn't realise she had been making her feel like that, and she still didn't fully understand it all, but that didn't mean she was going to argue. She cared enough to keep things this way. "I'm sorry, Vi. I didn't mean to make you feel like that. I don't really know how to help. I don't want you fighting here; it's too dangerous."
"And being an enforcer isn't?"
"Fair enough," Cait said with a small laugh. "How about I just make it up to you somehow, and then we can figure out things later? I'm sure there's like a greengrocer that's around." Vi laughed at that, but she was more than happy to try and forget about this all.
"So... You're kinda into the whole fighter thing?" Vi teased, nudging her. Cait rolled her eyes, but she was blushing.
"Oh shut up." Cait replied, grabbing her face and kissing her. Vi smirked, holding her face and running her finger over her eyepatch strap. "We should get home." But they both knew they probably wouldn't be heading home quite yet.
~~~~
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"Ah! Fuck Cait stop! Ow! Shit that hurts so much! Stop, stop, stop!" Vi whined, squirming under Cait as she pushed her thumbs right into her back, pressing deep against those toughened muscles. She could feel pain her toes and fingers with how hard Cait was pushing against her. It had to be inhumane.
She didn't know why she agreed to this stupid idea, but she was stuck now as Cait was straddling her back and pulverising her muscles. Vi was helpless, buring her face in the pillows as she groaned. "No Cait actually fucking stop - Ah!" She screamed and then tried to buck Cait off her like a horse.
But Cait had been through worse, and she knew how to handle it. "Come on Vi, it's just a massage. You have your whole back tattooed, but you can handle me massaging your shoulders?" She teased, purposefully wanting to make her feel like she was being dramatic. "Besides." Cait leaned in a little closer. "It's cute to watch you squirm for a change." She teased before then purposefully driving her hands under Vi's shoulder blades to really get those knots out.
Vi was not about to made fun of but before she could get her words out she whined in pain, flinching and trying not to move as the pain was almost impossible to describe. "Shut up would ya!" She yelled back in a mild rage but Cait just laughed, thinking it was pretty adorable how worked up this fighter could get over a little massage.
"You're so adorable. And so incredibly tight. I don't know how you walk around when your muscles are like this. I really do recommend that you go and see my massage therapist. She's very good and will do a better job than me at it." Cait teased.
But Vi had had enough and rolled them over, wrestling with Cait as she fought to get on top and pin her hands down. "Don't try fight with me cupcake." She teased, purposefully using the nickname. Vi then leaned in and kissed her neck.
"I think you should fire you massage person." Vi said, very possessive and Cait just laughed. She knew Vi would always be this way and she didn't mind it.
"Why? Just because you're jealous another woman gets to rub oil all over me? Not a chance. Go see her and you'll understand the magic she works much better." Cait said back before shuffling to try and move out from under her.
Vi collapsed down on top of Cait, making sure she had no way to escape. "Nope. You're staying here with me." She grumbled, snuggling in closer to make sure Cait had no escape.
"Vi, I need to get up. I've got a meeting to attend." Cait complained but she wasn't too upset about the affection.
After the continued silence from Vi, Cait sighed and stroked her hair. "You can have me all to yourself after this meeting." She insisted and that managed to make Vi move - even if it was with a deep groan.
Cait kissed her on the cheek for her troubles before giving her a proper kiss and getting up. "I'll be back in a couple hours. I suggest you take a bath or something so you're all smooth for me to continue on your back." Cait threatened but she knew they both appreciated the simple, non-life threatening stuff.
"Have fun." Vi sarcastically called as she watched Cait leave, feeling like a bit of a pervert for how much she enjoyed it. But it was a good view, and if she was going to have her muscles minced while laying on her stomach again, she'd better make the most of it.
~~~~
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Good Omens Mini Fic #2 - Ineffable Husbands (Aziraphale x Crowley)
Fandom: Good Omens (TV Show)
Type: Fluff
Rating: SFW
Triggers: N/A
~~~~
"Crowley I'm not really quite certain why exactly you want me to do this." Aziraphale asked, confused as he took off hid jacket, leaving him in his waist coat and shirt. The whole idea of 'self-defence' seems rather pointless to an angel who had the power to stop anyone with the click of his fingers, but he entertained the idea if it put Crowley at ease.
Speaking of, Crowley was rolling up his sleeves, trying to make himself seem like some fighter-type which the demon was not, no matter how hard he tried to seem. "Well, after the whole Armageddon thing not happening I wouldn't be surprised if the higher powers decided to cut-off our supply to miracles."
That argument was almost somewhat understandable but Aziraphale couldn't help but believe that angels would never be so cruel to him. After all, he was still an angel and therefore his miracles were very much a part of his given power. However, if it would put his mind at ease and then perhaps even be useful when blending in as a human later then he would oblige.
Unbuttoning his sleeves, Aziraphale neatly folded up his sleeves and then used some sleeve-holders to keep them in place. "Right, so what exactly should I do?" He asked, standing completely calm, hands on his stomach and a smile on his face.
Could he be any less defended? "Well, for a start lets get your hands up." Crowley reached over and lifted his hands. "Protect your face. I know. I know." He said before Aziraphale could argue against the point of it. "Now, I want you to punch me."
"Oh, I won't do that Crowley." Aziraphale said quickly lowering his hands. That was very much against his ideals and he wouldn't dare. "I could hurt you." He insisted as he stepped back. "I knew this was a rather silly idea." He continued as he started to undo his sleeves to get them back to a more reasonable length.
"Come on Angel. I asked you to punch me. If you don't do it then surely that's the more immoral thing?" Crowley tried to argue. "Besides, it's not going to do any real damage is it?" He continued, trying to avoid sounding like he was begging to get hit as he didn't want to make it seem like he was looking out for something harmful. Not that that would be at all odd for a demon, just for this one in particular.
The hesitation Aziraphale was trying to preserve was being pushed away as he was always going to be weak to Crowley's requests. It was only natural after having known someone for so long. "If you're certain? I don't want to do it if you're not completely sure of it." He asked once more, rubbing his hands nervously to try and warm them. As he assumed a cold punch would be worse than a warm one.
"Yes. 100% sure, now come on." Crowley insisted with his arms open, body ready.
Without much more conversation to be had, Aziraphale nodded and then planted a very firm punch on Crowley's left cheek which sent him stumbling back into a bookshelf with a great puff of air as it was forced from his lungs. Watching the bookshelf wobble Aziraphale thought he might have perhaps gone a bit too firm as he rushed to try and stop the books from being damaged.
Crowley slid onto the floor and rubbed his red cheek with a look of shock and almost fear on his face. He hadn't realised quite how strong Aziraphale was. "I did ask you if you were certain." Aziraphale confirmed as he kneeled beside him and took a look at his red face. Taking his chin with a finger he looked rather concerned about the damage. "Let me get you some ice for that, and some cocoa to make you feel better."
"I'm fine -"
"No, no. No 'buts'." The angel insisted as he went off to get the supplies he needed.
"I didn't even say 'but'." Crowley meekly protested as he sat on the floor, not certain if this was a good thing or a bad thing. Regardless, he knew this evening was certainly going against the plans he had made.
Starlight Express Fic (AO3 Crossover) - Dinah x Greaseball
Fandom: Starlight Express (2025 London)
Type: Hurt/comfort
Rating: SFW
Triggers: Gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, de-transition
~~~~
This whole getting converted to steam was something that Greaseball had really wanted to do when she realised it would make her faster. But then when she started to settle with her new hydrogen-based engine, something didn't feel right, and she didn't know what. The whole operation had gone very well, and things seemed fine with her pipes and the efficiency of her new engine, but it all still felt a little wrong. Greaseball just kept telling herself it was getting used to the new engine and how it worked. And there was a lot to get used to in that way.
She had to get used to the new fuelling system, with the new way to hook up to the system and the new way to open her valves and make sure that the pressure for the water wasn't too high or too low lest she get dizzy or have a headache. There was also the matter of making sure that she kept a stable temperature, which was much more complicated than temperature control with a diesel engine.
Meaning sleeping was very difficult, as she needed extra blankets and fans on depending on the weather. And of course that made it harder to cuddle Dinah in bed.
Dinah. That was a whole other thing that she had to worry about. Dinah had to deal with all of this as their relationship started to change. Sure, she said that she still loved her no matter what engine she had, but there was clearly a lot different now. Greaseball was going through a lot of really intense changes to her body. Metalwork was being put through intense testing, and there were, of course, things being removed and replaced and upgraded, which she was used to in the racing sense. But now it was in a different sense, and she didn't know what she was supposed to do to help.
Greaseball was in a lot of physical pain, not even getting started on the mental warfare this was bringing along with it that Greaseball wouldn't admit was happening. It was just a lot of things going on at once, and Dinah was trying her best to be there. To hold her hand and kiss her cheeks and wipe her tears when it all got to be too much, which was more often than either of them would like to admit.
But they were trying to get through it. They knew it was going to be difficult when Greaseball first wanted to convert, and they made a promise to each other to stick it out until the end. They were going to keep that promise, and they were going to be alright; they had to be or they wouldn't know what to do with themselves.
Dinah made sure to take notes on everything Greaseball was going through the changes in mood, how she was sleeping for longer and longer, and not wanting to get up in the morning. How she was avoiding mirrors and even training sometimes, complaining about pain in her chest. Recording every time she found her crying in the bathroom because she just couldn't keep herself together anymore. Dinah couldn't bear to see her hurting like this, but she had no idea what to do to fix it.
Greaseball was in the bathroom, just looking at her engine, opening the compartment and looking at the neon yellow coolant glowing around her engine as it buzzed almost silently. She couldn't understand why it didn't look right. It was like she was looking at something detached from her body.
This wasn't her; it was simply a reflection of someone else she was staring at through their eyes. It all felt so still, so clean and quiet. Having had a diesel engine her whole life, she was so used to the loud rumbling of her engine, the vibrations of her revving going through her chassis like thunder. The way that fumes bellowed out of her exhaust and how good it smelt when she fuelled up again. How refreshing it was to have a heavy full tank of gas after running it as dry as possible. She… missed it. Greaseball actually missed it. Oh Starlight, she had made such a massive mistake.
Dinah had just gotten back after picking up some groceries; packing them away, she noticed that Greaseball wasn't around. She had been trying to do a little research into the whole conversion thing, and she thought she might have an answer for it. And when she knocked on the door, seeing Greaseball just staring at the mirror, she knew this was the right thing for her to do.
"Greaseball, honey?" She asked softly, trying not to startle her. Greaseball looked up at her and sighed, giving a weak smile before melting back into that dour sadness she had been carrying for so long.
"I was thinking about how you've been lately, and I just wanted to talk." Dinah needed to be careful, or she would only upset her more. "I just wanted to ask you about how you feel about no longer being diesel, because I just think maybe we should talk about it."
After a silence that was a little too long for Dinah's oven, Greaseball made a little humming noise. She understood what the question was about, but there was so much she wanted to say and she just couldn't. She didn't know how she was supposed to get it out.
Dinah noticed the hesitation and took her hand, giving her a soft reassuring smile to try and comfort her more. With that tenderness, Greaseball felt her floodgates open.
"I just hate being like this! I really want to have my diesel engine back, and I miss everything about it. I miss all the noise and the smell and the way it made me feel and how it was just the right shape and size. I hate this engine so much, and I just want to go back to the way I like it. I like winning and being the strongest, but this makes me feel so much weaker all over,, and I just want to feel like myself again. I don't care that maybe it was what Electra needed, but I don't want this. I want to go back to being me again instead of trying to be the best. I was the best when I was a diesel. I felt so much more – I don't know; I just hate this."
With a deep sigh Greaseball felt the weight lift from her chest. "And it's not like I have a thing against changing my engine or anything; it's just not working for me, and I feel horrible, and like, I know this was my choice, but I chose it for the wrong reasons, and I want to go back. It's not like the mechanic's fault or even stupid Rusty's fault; it was me for not listening to my actual thought and knowing this isn't right for me. I want to be diesel." She finished her rambling, feeling much better about it all now, knowing that she had got it all out there and that she didn't have to pretend anymore.
Greaseball had some pretty repressed feelings about not winning the race, and she didn't know how to deal with it in any other way than to just be better. To do the thing that she thought would make her better, and when she tried, here she was in more misery and even less likely to be a winner again. She knew what she wanted to do now, she wanted to be diesel again. That was what she knew inside and out now she had this extra bit of confirmation.
Dinah was patient. She knew Greaseball had been going through a lot mentally, and she had been supporting her in anyway she could. Hearing that this wasn't right and she wanted to go back, she just nodded and kissed her forehead.
"I know. And I know you're not blaming anyone else. I know you're not trying to cuss out Electra. You just wanted to be you. And winning seemed like such a big part of it, that for you it seemed better to push everything else away to get it. I know. And I love you. I love you no matter what's on the inside or out. Just like I know you love me in that way. Coach, diesel, electric, steam, freight. Anything. I'm here for you. I'll call the mechanic in the morning to talk through options for getting your engine back." She said she was not sure how exactly to do it, but she could figure out some way to do it.
Greaseball sighed with relief. She was lucky that she had someone like Dinah. Not many, if any, people change back after this kind of thing; she'd be the rare case, but she was thankful for Dinah being there. It would be difficult for them both, hard to get used to the changes and having things replaced like they used to be, but she could do it. And without having tried steam like this, she'd probably be more set on it than ever, rather than where she was now, knowing she actually needed her diesel engine to be herself.
Greaseball leaned in against Dinah's shoulder, wrapping her arms around her "Thank you. I know it's a bit of a rollercoaster with me." She kissed her cheek, and then her lips. A rollercoaster? Yes, but one they would both choose to be on together.
~~~~
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Happy pride month to all!! I hope you enjoy this little gay fic as a treat :)
~~~~
Alfred had no idea what he had gotten himself into. Well, he had gotten himself into a ball, that was for certain, but at what cost?
Herbert was glowing, his arm around Alfred and holding his hand to guide him with the other. He had gotten just what he wanted. His mind already racing at the possibilities for tonight. Perhaps Alfred gets overwhelmed by the people, and they sneak off into the garden to have some time alone.
Perhaps he loves it all too much, and he drinks himself into a stupor. Or by the end of the night he's too tired to walk very far. Either way they would walk back arm in arm and then collapse into a bed in one of the guest rooms. Alfred would blush, being flustered from all the teasing, and he would look deep into his eyes as their lips got closer and closer. Just about to touch, hot breath on cool skin...
Perhaps he was getting a little bit ahead of himself. For now they were just walking into the event, dressed up, and he was going to make the most of the whole evening. He had to impress Alfred if he wanted to ensure they could get some alone time after this.
Of course, Alfred only had his mind on one thing. Sarah. He needed to make sure she was safe. He needed to get her and get out with the professor, who seemed to be following behind in some poorly put together outfit that stuck out rather obviously.
Then he saw her, already dancing with The Count, his arm around her waist as he pulled her along the floor effortlessly. She looked half dead already, and he was worried he was too late. He had to keep trying. Her eyes were half-lidded, her cheeks flushed and her face sweaty. What horrible things had they been doing to her?
Without thinking Alfred tried to walk away from Herbert and go to her. Unfortunately for him, their arms were still linked, and Herbert was dragged with him. "Slow down. What's gotten you so worked up?" He asked, hoping that this was simply him wanting to dance.
"Oh, the girl?" He said, rolling his eyes as he had hoped Alfred was beyond that. "I can assure you, she is exactly where she wants to be." Herbert said with a smirk.
Alfred went to protest it, wanting to talk about what they might do - what they may have already done to her. Who they were. The monsters under the cloaks they wore, but Herbert knew all that. "But she-"
"Exactly, where she wants to be." The vampire chuckled to himself, stopping this worry before it could start. "Some human women are so... curious. I just only hope the men hold some of the curiosity also?" His hand slipped around his waist, taking the lead in their dance. "Let me dance with you."
Alfred was not in any way used to dancing the female part and he was tripping over his own feet as he tried to wiggle out of the grip. Herbert just chuckled and affectionately pressed their foreheads together. He enjoyed the human incompetence and he was more than happy to teach him.
As they got closer to The Count, Alfred got an idea. "Could I perhaps cut in?" He asked, making Herbert instantly frown. The Count looked between the man and his son's rather disappointed expression. Herbert was always so fickle but he seemed to take such a liking to this boy, that the Count was more willing.
"Very well." He said, letting go of Sarah. Alfred breathed a small sigh of relief before he felt his waist being taken up once more, but not by Herbert this time. His eyes went wide as the Count took his hand and spun him away from Sarah as quickly as he had come.
A very disappointed Herbert held Sarah up with two arms as she fell against him. He sighed, rather annoyed that The Count was getting all the attention, even from the man he thought was his. "You better return him by the end of the night!" He called out, though he knew he wasn't going to make a difference. How did he always end up like this? This was completely not fair.
Alfred really had himself in a pickle now; The Count was starting to take longer and longer looks at his neck. At least Herbert was a little less obvious about wanting to eat him - at least in blood regard. He pulled back, trying to make it seem like he was getting tired. "I think I need some water."
The Count didn't seem completely convinced, but he was willing to let him go, walking over to take back Sarah as she seemed to be getting the wrong idea about Herbert. He was far too soft for this darkness, hardly able to peel the woman off him. But once again, as a good father should, he stepped in and pulled her away. "That man is all yours. He seems rather fidgety with me."
Herbert huffed, even though he was very thankful to be rid of her. He brushed his hands off, as if Sarah were somehow contaminated, before going to Alfred and holding his hand to pull him in once more. "Now, where were we?" He asked with a smirk.
Alfred swallowed. This was going to be a very long night.
~~~~
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Starlight Express Fic (AO3 Crossover) - Components x Electra
Fandom: Starlight Express (2025 London)
Type: Hurt/comfort
Rating: SFW
Triggers: Gender dysphoria
~~~~
There was something to be said about how engines had flocked to steam after only one victory on the track. But that didn't mean Electra wasn't going to get ahead while they still had the chance to. There was nothing more appealing than winning to Electra, and they couldn't lose twice in a row, as that would mean that they were perhaps actually not the best, and of course that wasn't true at all.
Electra was the best of all engines and would go through great lengths to prove this completely. They were going to be the most modern, the most upgraded and the most wanted engine in the yard, even if it meant ripping out their brand new electric engine in favour of rebuilding a better hydrogen-based one. That was what the future demanded, and Electra was not going to be outdated or forced into uselessness by people upgrading faster.
Electra would never be useless; they just couldn't be. It was not going to be the case, or Electra would… well, they didn't know what would happen because such things would never happen in the first place.
It was going to be a rather complicated and involved process, all things considered. Wrench had to start work on how this would be done mechanically, creating a good timeline to start fuel changes, installing pipes and trying to accommodate the lack of space in Electra's sleek design. The electric engine was built for smooth speed, not for hydrogen pipes and thick protective walling to stop explosions or overheating. There was going to be a lot that needed changing, and it had Wrench worried if it would be too much at once.
Of course, Electra would be able to handle anything, but when everything was going to be happening in the same week, the mind wouldn't be able to keep up with the changes to the body as quickly. It was a dangerous thing, and if they weren't careful it might create a disconnect between the mind and body of the engine, and who knows what that might lead to down the line.
Volta and Joule had been working overtime these past few nights, making sure that Electra could get used to the sudden temperature changes that a hydrogen-based engine could produce. They had a random schedule each day when they would have to approach Electra and take them in for the temperature treatment. Sometimes this would involve Joule lighting explosives inside of Electra's compartments to try and get them used to the pressure and the pain that could be caused by the transition to steam.
The conversion was getting on everyone's nerves, and of course all the components would have to update their couplers and connections in case a power transfer is needed during races or journeys from place to place. It was just a lot of different things all happening at once, and they had to believe it would be worth it.
After another month, it was done. Electra was officially hydrogen-based. They were steam. The whole thing was revolutionary and something that was making headlines now that they had let the press know what had happened. Electra was out for interviews and newspapers and all kinds of things; everyone wanted to know about the new fancy engine that was going to make everyone seem second-rate.
Especially after Greaseball had given up on the whole thing. Electra thought it was so pathetic to try halfway for only a couple of months and then give up; it was laughable, and Electra made that known. Much to the upset of Dinah – not that Electra ever cared about that silly little dining car. Greaseball didn't matter now that Electra was going to be the next champion, and even Rusty didn't stand a chance with this new and renovated form. It was completely perfect.
Then why did Electra feel strange about it all? This was what they wanted, and the new engine was running perfectly, but it was strange. They couldn't seem to get rid of the urge to sit in a charging station. The desire to just power down when that was no longer an option. And of course there was no more electric hypnosis, which was certainly something they weren't getting used to all that quickly.
But then again, it wasn't like they were unhappy with their body; it was just rather different, and it was going to take a moment for the software to update to the same level as the hardware. "Everything alright, boss?" Killerwatt asked, snapping Electra back to some state of reality. They were sitting in their office chairs and gave a small nod in Killerwatt's direction. "Are you sure? I know this whole hydrogen thing has been a lot at once." He said, trying to peel back that layer of professionalism that Electra insisted they had at all times. He actually cared about them after all, as stupid as it was.
"That's all. You're dismissed for the evening." Electra said firmly, not even giving Killerwatt another glance. Killerwatt went to protest, but Electra raised their hand. That was it. Killerwatt bowed his head and then left the room, the door closing automatically behind him.
Now alone, Electra was just staring at the wall, not certain what to do but knowing there was a lot going on inside their mind. There was so much they could say or do, but there were also so many things they didn't want to do right now. Sitting here in silence seemed like the best option over all of them. But even then Electra didn't really think they were the same engine sitting here as they were a few months ago. Well, they weren't; the old electric engine was gone now, and the new hydrogen engine was in.
But in a deeper sense, how could Electra be the same engine as they were a few months ago? With all the things that had happened with Greaseball and Rusty and all those in the yard, their components going off to race with others, helping and hindering them in the races.
There was a lot that had changed in such a short span of time; it was no wonder things felt different: they were different. And the yard was different too. It was a lot of change, and Electra hadn't really been able to assess it all or enjoy the new engine, even if it came with a lot of faults and differences compared to the original electric one. And yet, there was something comforting about this new engine.
It didn't feel out of place, but they hadn't had it long enough to feel at home just yet. It was like a new pet in the home. It belongs there, yes, but it hadn't had the time to settle in yet. Yes, perhaps that was the best way Electra could think of it. After all, that was how it felt truthfully.
Electra had never been one to care about such things as the internals, so long as the external appearance was one of power, sleek modernism and wealth. That was what this new hydrogen engine screamed, and it was a good fit for Electra in theory.
Time would tell if in practice all the care that they had put into getting this engine would pay off. If they would truly get to be the one and only engine of the future. Electra stood up, looking down at their body and placing a hand against their smooth chest. It felt right. Even if in some moments they would still doubt if this was a safe bet to have made. If this was really the best thing to do for the long run.
After a full conversation, it would be very difficult to go back, but Electra had faith they would truly be able to be a better engine after this. This was something they needed, even with the doubt sometimes creeping in. The soft yearning for the better race was going to overwhelm such doubts any day of the year.
Making their way back to their private room, Electra noticed the way their engine was humming. Not in that consistent drone of the electric engine that they had known and loved for so long, but instead the humming was a gentle rock with each push of their wheels against the tracks.
Pumping liquid back and forth in a steady flow that gave a soft reassurance to Electra once more. It was different, and of course, they missed the steady, familiar sound of electric but there was more to be gained from being hydrogen. It was a better noise and a better flow, and it was going to let Electra be a better engine. And perhaps it might even let other things become better within them as well.
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His hand couldn't slip away, even with all the sweat he was producing. Alfred was getting desperate to get away from this... thing as soon as he could. The way his hand held his wrist, making it impossible to move, the other around his waist, pulling and pushing with certain ease and assurance like the resistance he met meant nothing at all.
Alfred could feel his heart beating in his dry throat, the swift breeze created by the movements of the dance unable to adequately cool his skin. His clothes felt tight, head spinning, as he needed some way to get out. Some excuse or force to summon that could push this man away - not that he believed this thing was a man to begin with. Whatever the Count had been, his son was no different. Worse, even as his hunger for men seemed unnatural in more than one way.
Herbert looked deep into the eyes of this human man, enjoying the flicker of life inside them. He had been longing for a warm touch, needing to get closer to someone living like this, and this man was the perfect fit for all those desires. His body was balanced and formed with grace, his clothes fitting perfectly without much effort, and surely they would fall off with just as little force. Hair perfectly thick and combed. It was like he was made specifically for him.
Indulging in the dance was something to hopefully get the physical borders between them devolved, and forcing the other into the female part of it surely showed some intention beyond dancing. At least he hoped that would be the case. The sweat on his brow, the tremble in his legs - he was clearly rather nervous, or perhaps excited, which was only natural for a human.
Turning once more, Herbert yanked Alfred back in by his hand, turning him, so now his back was flush against his chest as they faced the mirror. Gazing into the mirror, Alfred's eyes widened, only seeing himself in the pure reflection. Jaw hanging open as he froze in the terror of realisation truly being thrust upon him. And in that realisation he noticed the monster behind him bowing its head to find his neck.
"Get off!" He shrieked, squirming and pushing as hard as he could manage, pulling, pushing and kicking. And yet his limbs seemed to meet stone on impact, burning with pain as Herbert took control again and wrangled the man to the floor, his expression as hard as his skin.
"You're so pretty, and yet you fight me so?" He asked, trying to flirt with him like one should a woman. "I promise it's worth the pain. All of it. Come here and let me show you." A smirk began to grow, hands firm on Alfred's wrist. Leaning down slowly, licking his lips as he got closer and closer to his neck.
Alfred was perhaps a soft man by some's standards, but any strong man should cry like he was in that moment, desperate to escape his clutches, move his head in the way of those teeth and escape it. But just as he imagined the pain of fangs ripping through flesh should appear, he felt the tender cool kiss of frozen lips against his raging pulse.
"You make restraint rather pleasurable." Herbert teased with a smile, kissing his neck again, trying to contain the urge to sink his teeth into the hot blood under the surface, draining the boy dry in second. He had to have patience, gripping Alfred's wrists tighter to contain himself, pulling a small whimper from the human.
Alfred was uncertain if this was worse than what he had expected because in someway it was... pleasant to be in this position. Wanted to the point of denial of instinct Sarah didn't feel that way about him, did she? He wasn't certain anymore what to believe, if a creature like this was capable of gentle affection what else might it be able to do?
"See? Not so bad. Almost good wouldn't you say?" Herbert continued as his kisses started to reach the neckline of his shirt, pushing it away with haste but it seemed that Alfred hadn't learnt his lesson and used that chance to kick him, getting his hands free and running for the door with all the power he had left.
Herbert rolled his eyes and huffed, irritated by how difficult he was being. It would be good if he just gave into it properly. But instead of running for help or escape, upon getting to the doorframe Alfred stopped. Hand clutching the frame, intending to fling himself forwards and slam the door behind him, but he didn't. Breathing heavily as something compelled him to stay. Something that he wasn't too unfamiliar with but wouldn't admit it to himself. Looking at the floor, back towards Herbert as he just tried to rush through getting himself moving again.
Seeing the pause, Herbert gave himself a moment to hope. A chance to think perhaps this one was going to stay. "Starting to think perhaps there is something worthwhile in here?" He teased, and again Alfred was not driven away by the words. In fact he was drawn in, his grip on the doorframe loosening, almost akin to relaxing.
"Get your pretty ass here right now." He demanded, hoping that would take the choice out of Alfred's mind, making it easier to come to his arms. And it worked, he stepped back and Herbert got between him and the door. "Now, let me show you something much better than a girl." Herbert teased with a smile, putting one finger under Alfred's chin and using his free hand to slam the door. This was going to be very fun.
~~~~
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