heya!! on the topic of the SCPF, i wanted to see your take on how the Ghosts (perhaps even a reader character, as well) would act in being within a MTF group, like pre-disbandment Omega-7 (Pandora’s box) or Alpha-9 (Last hope), so fighting alomgside SCPs like 076 and 073? I feel it’s such a cool concept <3 for example, how would 076 tolerate or think of the Ghosts? Would he favour certain members and ‘respect’ them more? See them as competition? 🫶
thank youuuu 🪷🪷
This will be very fun. This has been in the wings for a while, I’ve been busy, and visiting family in another province. That and the holidays are always crazy.
Brothers
You could deal with plenty of big monsters. A humanoid monster? Sure. One of the very first children to roam the earth? Well… that was another story. At least you had your own brothers and you were learning to take more combat. Holy hell, he could put you through your paces and even that was understating it.
You were certainly exhausted, and found yourself laying in the tent getting as much shut eye as you could before 076 or Able, got bored. Able was running out of things to do but he was more compliant to the wishes of the soldiers. Wandering had become his past time if he wasn’t fighting or talking to the men. Logan came in and laid in the cot next to yours. He was getting back from watch or patrol... honestly you were too tired to remember.
“Abel’s been giving me looks.” He said, laying on his back. You were on your side, and opened one eye to see him turn his head to you. You shut it again.
“Go on.” You said, hoping his voice could help you sleep.
“Kept staring at me and David when we interacted, especially during his… training.”
“Makes our hellweeks a walk in the bloody park.” You commented.
“No kidding. But it’s like… I don’t know, like he’s jealous and confused.” Logan said. You don’t have a brother except for Logan and David.
“Your dad talked to him though, give us some time off?” You asked, hoping it was a yes.
“Agreed to go easier on us. He’s wandering right now.” Logan said. You felt much more relaxed. “Your dad still keeping your hair tucked in I see.”
“I think he’s concerned about how Abel will respond to a woman.” You commented. "Apparently it's been mostly men working with him."
“You think Abel has a brother?” Logan asked. “They were kind of vague about his origins.”
“Logan, no offence but I’m a few minutes away from putting a bullet to Abel’s head if only so this hell week will be over.” You groaned, sighing.
Elias stood back letting Abel pace or roam around. Honestly it was a mixture of the two. He'd taken notice of the looks his sons received. Elias wasn’t willing to approach the man when he was wandering. Abel didn’t seem to like being interrupted, and Elias wasn’t one to prevoke him.
Eventually, Abel approached Elias. Before Abel could ask anything Elias started first. He hoped to leave Abel a little more civil before he left. Thankfully they were sending more soldiers to take care of 076. They also said they were sending someone else with them.
“My men are resting, they need it after your last session.”
“They’re tougher than most.” He commented. Elias took that as a rare compliment.
“May I ask you something?” Elias asked. He always found himself talking carefully around Abel. The man seemed to be seething constantly. Reminded Elias of someone else he knew. Abel nodded to hear the question.
“You’ve been eyeing my sons quite a bit, more than anyone else. Why is that?”
Abel lifted his head. They were Elias’s sons? He could see the resemblance.
“I had a brother.” Abel told him. “He betrayed me.”
“I’m sorry.” Elias said. “I’ve lost a brother myself.”
Abel looked at Elias curiously. “A good man, great warrior. During a mission I couldn’t pull him out, and chose between him and the rest of my team. It was the hardest decision for me.”
“This man’s name…what was it?” Abel asked.
“Rorke. Gabriel Rorke.” Elias answered.
“He was not your blood.” Abel said. “He is not your brother.”
“He was. All of my men are brothers in arms. They look out for each other, have each others’ backs. Rorke and I were brothers not in blood, but in bond.”
“…your sons are blood brothers?” Abel asked. “Yet they do not hate each other, and smile when they exchange weak blows.”
“Yes.” Elias said. “It’s how they express their bond for each other.”
“Hmm…” Abel stared at David who was going to the tent.
“When do more arrive?” Abel asked changing the subject.
“Tomorrow.” Elias replied.
“Fine.” Abel said, excusing himself without a word. Elias watched him go. At least tomorrow his team would be allowed to leave. Honestly the foundation was far too secretive for its own good.
You cracked your back, glad you could actually crack it as you got up and headed out for your turn for watch. Logan and David were out there already, having interchanging shifts. You tagged out Merrick, who reminded the three of you to stay safe. You saw Abel still testing weapons against an unknown opponent.
“Does he sleep?” You wondered aloud.
“I asked him, and well… if you kill him then yeah technically.” David said.
“Turns into sand and returns to the other SCP.” Logan clarified. “…why is he so angry all the time?”
“…if you were stuck in a box for years on end, with no way of venting frustration, it tends to build.” You suggested.
“Centuries old.” David muttered.
“A couple of the guys from the other task forces were saying he could be older.” Logan commented, as Abel continued to rage about against an opponent that wasn’t visible to the three Ghosts.
“Pretty good looking for his age.” You thought. You didn’t realize it was loud enough for the Walker boys to hear until they took their eyes off Abel and looked at you. You cleared your throat awkwardly.
Thank god for the SCP Foundations timing. Or that’s what you thought when you heard vehicles pulling up. Abel’s shadow killing session ended abruptly as you and the boys went over to greet the newcomers.
The commander immediately brushed all three of you off. The hell?
“Where’s Elias Walker?” He asked.
“He’s resting, I’ll retrieve him.” You said. Up until now, all of you were given respect, even from Able, this guy brushing you off didn’t sit right. Wouldn’t take long for you to find out what was going on. First you had to find Elias.
You found him wandering much like Able would, but mostly enjoying the peace of the night. Not much gear on, but still had a side arm.
“Sir?” You said, not wanting to startle him. Not that you ever could.
“Valkyrie.” Elias said turning to you. “Did the team arrive?”
“Yes sir. They just pull-“
You didn’t finish your sentence when you heard a loud enraged roar that could only come from able and shouting from the SCP Task Force. Shit.
You and Elias came back to the main camp to find the vehicles totalled and the Ghost taking up cover with the rest of the task force. Where was your father? You spotted him moving closer to a blood hungry Able who was striking at another figure. Able was speaking Arabic. Elias found his sons and you took up next to your own father.
“The fuck happened?!”
“The foundation brought a thaumiel for Able.” Keegan explained taking risking a peek. “Abel’s pissed now.”
“Thaumiel? Why would they bring a thaumiel?” You shouted, hearing the earth behind you breaking up and Able raging. Wait. He was crying out. Was he in pain?
The task forces kept shouting something but you could barely make it out.
“We need to calm him down.” You said. Fuck it. You made a break for the next closest cover. Ignoring your father, you made it to more cover before making another break. You made out the fight but just barely. Able was losing, wounded and pissed. There was another man you could make out through the smoke. Arabian in appearance though it was hard to tell in the dark. He wasn’t phased though. You noticed a few fallen soldiers from the foundation near the confrontation. Keep going, eyes forward. Don’t get distracted.
You found cover and slid into it, loading your gun. You could make it. Set up your shot, make sure it’s clean. If you could injure the one still standing, Able might pull back or at least relax. This new SCP, was a threat, Able knew that.
There was a moment of stillness as the newcomer stood there, head down slightly as you took a deep breath. Injure, don’t kill it. If you do there will be way more shit later. You took a deep breath, seeing the target in your sights. He was just standing there. Able was beaten and wounded, almost fatally. Your finger was on the trigger, the shot wouldn’t kill it. Aimed at the shoulder you noticed they were silvery gray, likely metallic. At least you could pull its attention if the bullet bounced off. You blocked out the shouting behind you hearing Able and the strange talking. Shit you needed to learn Arabic. Able was enraged, and the other man simply stood there, his voice monotone. Deep breaths. You needed to wait a bit. The shouts are too far away. For the most part you think you can hear them telling you to back off, move away. You noticed the man slowly turn his head towards you. Now or never.
You fired on the newcomer, hitting his shoulder.
Except… you didn’t.
Instead you felt a massive pain in your shoulder, and you cried out from it. You hid immediately, falling back and out of sight. Able’s rage reignited as you adjusted yourself, looking for another sniper. Where where? There had to be one. You were bleeding. Shit, fuck. Then you heard a name roared by Able before you heard a sickeningly wet slicing sound.
Then…It was quiet.
Your arm was still in a great deal of pain, but you kept your hand over the wound. Fucking hell what just happened. You heard footsteps approaching and you were regretting your choices. You readied your knife biting back your pain. The footsteps stopped and you were ready to fight.
“I wouldn’t recommend that, after your arm was damaged.” You heard someone say. You slowly looked up and saw the newcomer, looking down at you. “Apologies, but you did shoot at me without provocation.”
You winced as the medics took a look at you. A few scientists asked if they would do a more thorough assessment of your wound. Yeah don’t ever ask that kind of question in front of a protective parent, especially one who fully capable of eliminating targets, and have spent more than a couple weeks with an SCP that could make drill sergeants weep. Keegan nearly cussed them out, while you sat on a cot in a tank top and army pants. SCP-073, or Cain, stood some distance being fussed over by scientists like an untouchable celebrity and their make up team. Logan was patching you up, Merrick standing guard with Keegan to keep the scientists away from you.
“No bullet.” Logan said, keeping his voice low.
“No bullet?” You couldn’t believe it. “You’re sure?”
“If I pry any more in there, it would do more damage. Lift your arm.” Logan said. You winced but simply from the injury, not anything inside it. The fuck…okay yeah you were ready to go home.
Elias stood by Cain, having a few questions for him once the scientists left him alone. Cain kept glancing at him before Dr. Glass called them away. Elias had a chance and he was taking it.
“You speak very good English.” He commented.
“I do. It is not the only language I know.” Cain replied. Elias could tell Cain would be blunt.
“Why did you set him off? Able?” Elias asked. Cain didn’t seem comfortable with replying. Elias had a guess, wasn’t the most religious man, but he knew the basics. “If it is classified I understand.”
“Thank you. I did not wish to disclose my reasons.” Cain said. “We were brothers once. By blood. Now I don’t know what we are.”
Elias said nothing. Elias and Rorke were the same once. Unlike Cain, Elias had an answer to what they were now.
Was playing CoD Ghosts while grinding for achievements with @kimiheartblade and this fucker hit me in the back of the head on and off during a mission.
College AU Ghosts.
Going in alphabetical order cause I said so
Ajax - Librarian. In a relationship with Merrick. Still active in Ghosts, just more secretive about it. Absolutely loves a good book and is not above telling people to be quiet or leave his library.
Elias - New history teacher to the school. Nervous about it, but does his best. Helps provide for Logan and Hesh. Was married to Lily before her death when Hesh and Logan were just kids. He still has a picture of her in his wallet and blames himself for not being able to have a better job at the time. Is kind of a part of Ghosts. He tries not to intervene or get involved much, until they started to ask about his boys joining after Merrick brings it up in passing. Knows Keegan from the Ghosts and is able to set up help for Logan communicating with more that just looks at Hesh.
Hesh - Hesh is a ftm, his birth name being Delilah, but being changed to David before he took on the nickname Hesh. Hesh always just knew from a young age, his mom was super supportive and after a handful of years after he came out, was he able to legally change his name. Elias was more wary and needed constant help with the change, but got there eventually. Hesh has taken T, and passes. He's studying to be a history major at the moment as well, having Logan tag along. Due to Logan never leaving his side, he's become his younger brother's translator, having learned his slight movements and ques. Hesh has also been forced to meet Keegan due to Logan refusing to meet anyone that could help him learn to communicate in a different way than through Hesh.
Keegan - ASL teacher who also doubles as a Sign Language interpreter and someone who helps with special needs around campus. He's asked by Elias to help Logan learn Sign Language as a way to communicate. Keegan agrees, after all, Elias helped keep the Ghosts together through out the years despite slowly fading from it and the unexpected betrayal from Rorke.
Kick - That guy that just knows basically everyone. He's not apart of the College really, but he can show up and no one really questions it. He works as an IT guy somewhere big, but he won't say where. A part of Ghosts and usually handles any social issues.
Logan - Very selective mute ever since his mom died. Has learned to communicate through small gestures and looks. Logan does say a few words here and there in a group of three, usually jus this family unit though. Rarely does he grunt or make noise (usually from physical exertion or pain). He stares. A lot. Almost never leaves Hesh's side. Never found a reason to learn Sign Language, after all, he had Hesh who would always translate for him. Right? Was reluctant to go see Keegan, but begrudgingly went to stay near Hesh. Logan isn't entirely studying anything, he just does whatever Hesh does. Secretively super artistic.
Merrick - Football Coach for the college, dating Ajax. "Leader" of the Ghosts. The members of the group see him as a stand in leader for when Elias isn't actively in meetings or gatherings. Used to butt heads with Rorke before his betrayal.
Ramos - Librarian at rival College. Smart guy that just so happened to get a crush on Rorke when he started working at his college. Helps Rorke work on their bikes and add mortifications.
Rorke - Used to be a member of the Ghosts, but due to a misunderstanding (poor communication on both ends), left and 'started' The Federation. He also is a Football Coach, just at Romas' school. His and Merrick's teams often butt heads and every other year they switch who is winning.
Who are the Ghosts in this AU?
The Ghosts are a biker group that started when everyone was in college, used to have a bunch of members, but the originals, Ajax, Elias, Keegan, Kick, and Merrick, are really that's all that is left in the area, the rest moving out, or in Rorke's case, betraying the Ghosts.
The biker group is known to protect people from harm on school grounds, like a vigilante type deal, but some how also slowly got paid to be the guards/officers of the school, especially since everyone but Kick works at the school now. They do still wear the masks to hide their faces, and while a handful of people know who they are or figured it out, no one really says anything about it.
Hesh and Logan have been told stories about them, but until one night that the two are jumped by The Federation, they were sure that it was just a myth. Hesh and Logan both wanted to join, but Elias wasn't too sure.
Who are The Federation in this AU?
Also a biker group! Their leader is anonymous, but lead Rorke to where he was today. They usually just like to roughhouse around town and cause minor troubles here and there, but since Hesh and Logan started college, he's been slowly getting more aggressive and having the gang cause crimes here and there.
What happened to Mrs. Walker?
Right now, she's going to die saving Logan, causing his heavy selective mutism. I'm still trying to figure it out, but the main thought is a bus broke down on some railroad tracks while a train was coming and Logan was the only one small enough to fit through the windows and so he barely made it out alive and watched his mom become a blood splatter in a bus. How did the bus break down right before a train was coming? UHHHH no idea. Might put Rorke up to it, might just have it be a freak accident.
This is gonna be a more serious story if I do end up writing about it so it won't end up here. I do plan on having a Keegan x Logan thing goin' on so there's that.
I dunno. I'm tired. Goobnight.
Cod Ghosts / Predator crossover but the predators take Riley. Riley starts ripping throats out and causing mischief along the way. Ends up stealing a spaceship and flys back to earth because he misses David so damn much. He just wants head pats again. >:’(
The question Keegan wants to reply with is 'why do you keep asking that'. You question everything, which is good in his opinion, but sometimes he wishes you would take him at his word. But you're young and curious so what is he supposed to do? Besides it's been beenficial. If he wants to prep you to become a ghost, understanding his trick of trade was important. Especially with what he was about to show you.
You and Keegan had gotten up early, which wasn't much of an issue with the jetlag, and were getting breakfast. He'd told you that you had to get breakfast and then go see Merrick. You asked why, as you often did. Keegan got you back in the vehicle, and told you it was a surprise.
You ended up sleeping in car on the way to Merrick, which meant Keegan had to get you out of the car, and into the old van. When you awoke you looked around a saw some odd devices you didn't recognize, and your father and Merrick in the front. Merrick saw you had woken up. Keegan got a quick check in, ensuring you hadn't gotten car sick, making sure you were comfortable, bathroom break, etc.
"Where are we going?" You asked. Keegan and Merrick exhcanged a glance at each other.
"A special fishing trip." Keegan replied.
"Why is it special?" You asked. Keegan gave Merrick a look of 'told ya'.
"We're going to the Loch Ness." He clarified. "Because I have something to show you there. I'll tell ya more when we get there okay?"
"Okay." You said staring out the window.
"Nosey little snot." Merrick muttered. Keegan shot him a look. That was his kid Merrick was talking about. Merrick wasn't entirely wrong, but still.
The morning was still dark, and by now you'd gotten plenty of food. Your father had the old van parked by a small wooden dock on the shore of Loch Ness. You had on a hooded flannel, and you were given privacy in the van to get into your wetsuit underneath. Merrick and Keegan were getting other stuff prepped along with a small rowboat. Once you came back out, you were called over to the dock, and helped into the boat.
Merrick handed Keegan a couple devices from the van, before Keegan started rowing away from the dock. The are was still, damp with mist. You could feel your heart beat, with only the sounds of the water around you to fill the silence. To Keegan's surprise you weren't asking any questions, only scanning the water around you. It didn't take too long for Merrick's sillhouette to vanish from view. You looked at your father, who kept a calm expression. You tried to stay calm yourself but it was a little hard, as you fidgeted in your spot. You couldn't see anything through the mist, and the water was dark.
You felt the boat suddenly rock, and you flinched, looking down and gripping the seat. Your father stopped rowing. He took one of the gadgets and lowered it into the water on a line, using a separate screen to view. You leaned forward to try and see, and could make out some bright colours. Something moved on the screen and you felt the boat move again.
Keegan put the screen away, reassuring you that everything was okay.
"Is it the monster?" You asked, your whispering frantic.
"It's okay. I need to tell you something but you have to keep this a secret." Keegan told you. You nodded. "You know how I leave for a long time for work? I fight bad people, that want to hurt other people. Good people. Something else I do, is uh... well I look for monsters."
You tilted your head. Keegan took as a chance to continue. "Usually I have to hunt the monsters, because all they want to do is hurt people. But some I leave alone, because they aren't hurting anyone."
There was a strange noise that seemed to come from all around you, and something broke the surface of the water close by. You were scared, so you hurried to your father, who didn't hesitate you hold you. He had expected you to be scared.
"Can we go back?" You asked him. He chuckled a little at that.
"I wouldn't bring you here if it wasn't safe." He said. Keegan sits you on his lap, while you heard another odd cry. You wrapped your arms around his neck, nearly choking Keegan from your death grip. "Sweetie, it's okay. You're safe. I promise."
You hear water's surface break again, and something approaching, You were shaking now, and Keegan had a hand on your head, hushing you. You whimpered, saying you wanted to go back over and over. It was getting closer and closer. You didn't want to die. Didn't want to be eaten.
"Hey hey hey, it's alright. It's not gonna hurt you. I promise. Don't fall short of my promises." He reminded you. "Open your eyes. She's just gonna say hello."
Very slowly and hesitatntly you peeled yourself from your father, and peeked. You returned to your first position out of fear at the foreign thing in your vision. Your dad continued to reassure it was safe, asking you to watch while he reached out to the monster. The creatures was a dark green, with a long neck, the rest of it's body submerged in the water. The eyes were shiny and dark like black marbles. The monster's nostrils flared, giving you a light spray of water. Teeth jutted out from it's jaws, as it made a softer cooing sound at Keegan's hand.
You peeled yourself away again, and stared as it stared back. Your dad was gently stroking the creature as it eased itself closer towards you. Very slowly, you reached out to touch it, and it gave another puff of air through its nose making you gasp and giggle.
“This is Nessie.” Keegan said. Your eyes lit up looking at him. He already knows what you’re going to ask. “Yep, that Nessie.”
“Hello.” You said to the plesiosaur. It made a noise in greeting, which made you jump again.
“Nessie is a friend. I have something called a bond with her. It lets us understand each other and we can tell if the other is in danger or needs some help.” Keegan exclaimed.
“Do I have one?” You asked.
“Not yet. Maybe when you’re older, we can talk about it more.” Keegan told you. You smiled and nodded. Nessie let you pet her some more before returning beneath the surface. Your father then asked if you wanted to go with her. At first you were nervous but then you nodded. Keegan would hold your hand the whole way if you wanted. Now you knew why he told you to get in your wet suit.
Keegan got down to his wetsuit, making sure you were ready. He helped you with your oxygen tank as well. Nessie got up alongside the small boat, her larger, thicker body like a small island. Keegan got out first, before helping you out. Nessie kept the boat steady for the two of you. You stabled yourself on her slick back, on your hands and knees. Her skin was smooth, like a whale's and had dark spots. Keegan sits down before sliding off Nessie's back.
When you don't follow him, adjusting yourself in the same position s he had, Nessie raised her head out of the water again. It was a little spooky without your dad around, and the morning was still cold. The water was gonna be icy, you could feel it splashing up a little at you. Nessie turned her neck and head towards you, cooing again. You reach out ot her nose again, hand shaky. Nothing to fear now. Your father came back up holding on to Nessie's body.
"You can do it." He tells you. You nod and slide in. Keegan follows you into the dark and cold waters. As you look around you panick. There is nothing around you. You see dark shapes, and everything around you is vast. What is out there? Is Nessie the only one? Is something beneath you? What just moved?! You hurry back up to the surface, your father coming with you. You try to get back on to Nessie but she's too slippery. Your father is trying to calm you, hearing you panting and gasping, kicking wildly. Nessie let's him hold on to her neck while he holds on to you.
"Hey hey! It okay!" He tells you, unsure whether you're trembling or shivering. "You're okay, I got you."
"Whats in there?" You asked, through chattering teeth.
"Nessie is the biggest threat out here, and she won't hurt you, I promise." Keegan said. You need a minute still to relax. "We'll take it slow."
Your father keeps hold of you, as Nessie starts moving. The water pushes around you as Nessie pulls you and your father along. Nothing touches you below except your dad's legs. Nessie holds back on her speed, able to tell you were afraid. After some time of Nessie circling the boat, getting you acclimated, Keegan shows you what to do next.
Nessie goes below, once again, and your father shows you where to hold on to her, at the base of one of her flippers. She moves a little faster, gliding through the water. It was dark all aorund you, but you were next to the two biggest threats in the water. It was safe. You don't know how long you had been swimming with them, but eventually the water became easier to see through. There were fish darting around, avoiding Nessie quickly.
At one point Keegan pulled you aside, letting Nessie go up ahead. Nessie disappeared into the green of the water, where you can just barely make out some movement. Keegan kept you close, while you watched the still. Suddenly there was a burst of movement, and a haunting cry. Your heart skyrocketed, seeing Nessie's massive shape darting around, and fish fleeing in different directions.
Keegan gave Nessie a chance to swim with you by yourself. Two pats meant go, let go of her to stop. Nessie lead around the Loch, letting you try stopping and going with her. She was gentle, more gentle than you'd heard. The Lochness monster was something you'd been learning about on your own for a while. Keegan would often voice doubts about different pieces of ibnformation you'd heard. That's probably where you got all the questions from.
Around midday, with the light gray clouds in the sky maintaining the chill, Keegan got you back in the boat and on shore while you piled on questions. Some he answered, some he left alone, wanting to tell you when you were older. When you reached the dock and Merrick helped you out, you got to tell him everything with a lot of excitement and detail.
You would never forget this trip, and Nessie would never forget you.
TW: violence, some disturbing imagery, not sure if there's anything else.
Even sleeping bags were made more comfortable by hoodies, beanies and the sounds of the water. You were curled up next to David on the floor of the van, a sleeping roll laid out underneath you. Despite how comfortable you were you were struggling to sleep. The call to your dad, telling him about Kai, it still bothered you.
You crawled out of your sleeping bag and quietly opened the van door to keep Hesh from waking up. You looked around for Logan and Riley, knowing it was their turn on watch. Well Riley didn’t sleep much anyways so it was always him on watch but still. You found Logan sitting by the fire with Riley wandering about. Logan was muttering to himself, which you knew he did when he was thinking alone.
Your steps alerted him, and he looked back and up at you as you came over, sitting down beside him. Logan returned to poking the fire absently. He stopped muttering but not thinking. You scooted closer, resting your head on his shoulder thinking too. Thinking about what killed Kai. Whatever it was did it intentionally and with cruelty. The body was together and Nessie was still swimming freely. The monster had gone into the water and dragged the little one out before feeding. It had help too. Could it be the Federation? Would they be so heartless? Maybe if Rorke was involved. He’d probably do it to send a message, and it made you hate him even more. You'd encountered him plenty of times before. You didn't see Ajax, but Keegan didn't withhold anything from you.
“Rorke is fucking with us. He killed Kai, how I don’t know. I think that’s why Nessie got so aggressive when she saw you guys. Probably thought he was still one of us. Felt like she couldn’t trust them anymore. Saw me and thought an old friend returned, and brought the wrong company.” You said, wanting to break the silence between you two. It was quick, and something you just wanted to get out there. Logan didn’t say anything, but his head dropped a little. You removed your head from his shoulder. “Hey. Talk to me.”
“M’fine.” Logan muttered. Yeah right, you knew it was bullshit.
“What is it?” You pressed.
“Don’t worry about it.”
“I’m going to now.”
“God you are annoying you know that?” Logan told you, with a look of frustration on his face. You went quiet, your eyes flicking down. Logan sighed, knowing you hated hearing that. Heard it from your mom more than once. “I didn’t mean it.”
“I know.” You said. You knew he didn’t. But something else was bothering him. “If you don’t want to talk about it, I understand. Shouldn’t pry.”
The night is silent again with the fire crackling, and your butt going numb on the ground. “Rorke… when we interrogated him, and the plane crashed, he told me to come find him if I wanted to join him.”
That wasn’t what you were expecting. “Wow… talk about a whirlwind recruitment.” You said. It did seem odd. Clearly, it bothered Logan, it wasn't hard to tell. You just didn't know why.
“Why me though?” He asked you. He asked you like you knew the answer. “Why not David or Keegan or you?”
Opportunity maybe? Or just convenience?
“I… I don’t know. Maybe your dad? Personal grudges and all.” You suggested.
“Or he thinks I’m weak.” Logan said. “Easy to break, the easiest to bring over to his side. The one he could get a hold of and twist to his own desire-“
“Hey hey. Don’t talk like that.” You told him. You didn’t want to think about what Rorke could do to Logan. Could do to any of your team. The image of Logan being tortured the way Rorke had been, it felt like there was a hole in your chest, sucking your insides. Logan kept his head down, and in the low light of the campfire you see something glistening against his cheek. Was he crying? Had he been holding this stuff in for that long? Were you the first person he told? You put an arm around him, and leaned against him closely.
“Tell me how I can help.” You said. Logan just shrugged. “You know you’re allowed to be scared.”
“I’m not scared.” He argued, setting down the poker. “This whole thing was a lot different when it was just Odin striking and Rorke leading the charge of the Federation but the idea that he is going after Ghosts specifically and wants to somehow recruit me… it’s a different story. We have to focus on everything around us and one thing that could be coming from anywhere.”
You heard his voice break a little as he buried his face in his hands. If he wasn’t scared then you were scared for him. You hated seeing either brother like this. Tugging one of his hands away from his face, your fingers lacing with his. “Look at me.”
Logan looked up at you and you made sure he didn’t look away, your hand squeezing his. “No one… is breaking us apart. Ever. David isn’t going to let it happen, I’m not gonna let it happen and you’re not gonna let it happen. Okay? I promise that I will never let Rorke get his hands on you, fuck it, I vow to break Rorke a second time if he tries to do the same to any of us. I solemnly swear, on my honour.”
“You can’t promise that.”
“I’m vowing not promising. Because like it or not I love you.” You said. Logan looked at you, and you realized what you said. Shit, not how you wanted to phrase that. You hope he didn’t take it that way. Not that you didn’t mean it. Wait. “You’re family to me.”
Did Logan look disappointed? Ever so slightly? Why did your face feel warm? The fire, it’s the fire. Or the cold. Yeah. That was it. Logan looked down at your hands and nodded. You let go of his hand, and hugged him.
“We’re gonna kick his fucking ass.” You said. “Pay him back for everything.”
Logan shifted over to face you better, properly putting his arms around you. He was hugging a little tight but you assumed it was out of comfort. Instead he pulled you up and back, lying on the ground, making you yell in surprise, and him laugh at you. You wrestled with him, but he ended up on top of you. Not that you gave up easily. You went for under the arms, tickling him, and his arms gave out, giving you the chance to switch sides. You heard him groan in pain once you were on top.
“You good?”
“Yeah, just rolled onto a pointy rock.” He said, fidgeting to get the rock away from his spine. You waited for him but he didn’t bother with giving you the green light, because he poked your stomach and then started tickling all your weak points making you laugh like you were both seven.
“Not fair!” You argued, but it barely came out through all your laughing, as you tried to fight back. This went on along with some name calling, for a few minutes before you found yourselves tuckered out. You laid on top of him hearing his heartbeat. The moment of laughter was relieving for the short time you had it.
“Val?”
“Hm?”
“…nothing.” Logan said. He didn’t want to interrupt the moment.
“How you feeling?” David asked Logan. Logan looked up noticing his brother was awake in the van, sitting up, half submerged in the sleeping bag.
“Fine why?” Logan asked, getting his coat off, and checking his pack.
“You took a rock to the spine that had to hurt.” David teased. He got a pair of socks thrown at his head in response. “Take that as a yes.”
“They can hear you.” Logan said, dropping his volume.
“Yeah, I did.” David responded. Logan went a little red. Oh god, this wasn’t the end. David did lower his voice though. “They love you.”
“Not like that.” Logan corrected him. David dropped his head back, fed up.
“They do though.”
“You don’t know that.”
“You like them though, so just tell them. What’s the worst that could happen? You’d still see them every day.” David argued. Logan got into the sleeping bag, wanting to just sleep and dream about something else.
“Yeah and that wouldn’t be massively awkward.” Logan said sarcastically.
“And them living with us wasn’t awkward for you?” David questioned. That was different, at least to Logan it was. Back then you saw each other as family, close friends. You had to leave eventually, your father getting custody of you.
“They needed help, it’s different.” Logan said. David sighed.
“You’re gonna be okay though… just remember that.” David told his brother laying back down. Logan wasn’t sure if David heard his conversation with you about Rorke. Regardless he needed to hear that.
“I know. I think I’m just tired.” Logan said laying down himself.
“Alright… just don’t go shaking the van when it’s my watch.” David said turning over. Logan whacked him with his pillow. Worth it.
You sat outside with Riley still wandering. Once the van door shut you buried your face in your hands.
Why didn’t you just tell Logan?! For fucks sake! Why were you like this? Ugh! Your face was red. Come on you’ve had this crush for how long? Then again, it hadn't hit you until after you left the Walker household. Then it was a couple years of texting, Odin striking, hunter training and monster research for ten years, and no contact mixed with longing. Longing to see him again, to see what became of him, to show him what you'd achieved and accomplished yourself. Maybe he liked you back, there were signs, but you didn't want to misread anything.
You sighed, trying to find something else to think about. Then you heard something. Riley heard it too, lifting his head from the ground, his hackles rising. Riley hurried over as you stood up and backed up towards the passenger seat of the van where a hunting rifle was leaning against it. You posted up with the familiar weapon looking around, the strap hanging loose like a hammock. The mist was obscuring a lot, but Riley skidded in front of you, growling in the direction of the sound. You heard it more, almost like a quiet growl, along with the rustling of plant life. You made sure the gun was loaded, ready to fire.
You could sense movement somewhere, as could Riley but you couldn’t make it out properly. You put some distance between yourself and the van. Suddenly Nessie was kicking up a fuss as well, pulling your attention. Riley then started to rub against your leg, pressing his collar repeatedly. Riley kept pulling away and returning as if he wanted something but you weren’t sure what. With Riley growling, something rustling and Nessie crying out warnings you were being overloaded with noise. You couldn’t concentrate, and you turned to try and get the brother’s awake and ready to help you.
Before you reach the van door, the stranger made itself known. Your blood ran cold seeing it. You couldn’t tell from this distance if it was a skin walker or a wendigo. It was big though, and it was horrifying. You knew they weren’t friendly by any imagination, and Nessie was crying out, as you realized this thing probably killed Kai, seeing what looked like pieces of Kai's skin hanging from it's mouth and attached to it's body. It's flesh seemed to be none of it's own, instead from other animals and creatures. Fur, scales, even some feathers seemed to be stuffed or tied around it's body and limbs. There were even pieces of cloth, strapping it's "skin" in place. It was approaching, moving slowly. You knew it was a ploy, they were very quick and agile and if it was one of the federations who knew how much stronger it was. It wanted you to be scared, but you raised the gun ready to fire at any moment. Riley was snarling, ready to attack. Despite your initial desires you prayed the boys would stay in the van.
The creature had approached on two legs but hunched over moving on all four boney limbs. Hold your ground, no sudden moves, the buck shot will knock it back. It was circling now. The creature is almost twice your size. Your heart was racing, and you honestly wanted to call out but that would give the monster more targets, unarmed ones. You take a shot in the dark and start moving closer to the creature. It shuffled back, but you still had to be careful. You wanted it away from the van so it could try to rip into it. You couldn’t fire until it attacked. A creature like this could be knocked back with buck shot, but it was fast enough to get out of the way before you fire, only taking some of the blow. You got it to move back, shouting at it, putting some distance between it and the van, but even then your steps were careful and planned. If it decided you were bluffing, it wouldn't hesitate to close the gap, and render your rifle useless with close range. It had to make a move first. You had to wait until it decided it wanted to go for a kill.
The boys could hear your shouts and got their own weapons. Riley went to the van door and started to scratch at it, urging them to hurry. You stop moving, waiting for your backup. Don’t look away. Keep your concentration. The creature stopped, tilting its head, slowly. Its teeth were yellow, and jagged, like they'd been broken and sharpened.
It took a bold step closer to you. And then another. You stepped back. “You… will be… perfect…”
The voice was haunting and raspy. But you swore it was familiar, as a deep chill ran through your veins. You heard some noises from the van, and risk a glance at the sound of the door sliding open.
The creature took full advantage of your moment of vulnerability. Suddenly there was a massive weight on you and you were staring the monster in the face. You hit the ground hard and hear your name cried out from behind you. It's palm pressing down on your chest holding you there. It could feel your heart beating. The boys can’t fire, the buck shot could hit you. The creature knows this and you struggle underneath it. It’s hopeless as it shrieks in your face raising its claws. The gun is too far away, you were already trying to reach for it. You tried to kick at it, struggling with everything you had, but it remained unbothered.
The claws come down and you’re able to raise your arm to cover your face. It sliced through your jacket, giving your arm some deep gashes. As it did, you felt something hot pass above you, and the weight was forced off. You cried out from the pain.
Logan dragged you back as you winced from the sting of the cuts, gritting your teeth. David chased after the two strangers, as you heard unearthly noises from both. You took a moment to look and could make out… was that… what the fuck?! Even Logan looked stunned, stopping once you were close enough to the van.
“What the hell?” You breathed, as David fired on your attacker the shot echoing out around you. Meanwhile a large dark canine on fire, chased it, barking and biting at it with bright white fangs staying between David and beast. You didn’t think a creature like that could be on the surface, hell you thought a monster like that was myth and only myth.
The beast couldn’t get to David with a burning and snarling hound in the way. It nearly caught itself on fire from the flames coming off the creatures body. David took a few shots, hitting the mark. The creature backed off but it didn’t retreat. Logan had set his attention on you, getting your coat off and checking the damages of your scratch. If you didn’t clean it soon you could risk a much deadlier infection. You were honestly trying not to tear up.
“LOGAN!” David cried out. You saw the beast approaching, and you pulled Logan off of you if only to keep him safe. Luckily the dog was faster, clamping its bear trap jaws onto the beast’s leg and dragging it away. You reached for your rifle, adrenaline still pumping, as you fired on the beast. The monster cried out and backed away, snarling and staring you down with cold eyes. By now the creature realized any food tonight would be fruitless. No hunt was worth its own death.
It was able to get free from the hound’s jaws to flee, clawing at the dog’s snout, before whacking the side of the dog's jaw. The hound recoiled, shaking off the hit. The canine didn’t let it flee without giving it a good scare by chasing it away. The flaming dog let out deep guttural barks, outside the tree line, growling a warning not to come back out. Once it was sure the creature was gone it let out a haunting howl, as if announcing a victory. David kept the rifle raised while Logan was panting alongside you. He got back up checking your arm, as Nessie let out another cry, this one angry. The canine let out a woof in her direction, almost like an apology.
What the fuck just happened? The dog thing looked to Hesh and laid down without a command. You saw Hesh look down at something in his hand and cautiously approach the dog. It wagged it's tail proud of itself. Yeah you'd be damn proud to if you were able to take down a creature like that.
“Is that a hellhound or am I experiencing blood loss?” You asked Logan. He looked back for a split moment. He was trying to wrack his brain around it as well. You watched as David put the thing in his hand around the canine’s neck. The flames died down so as not to burn David as the collar was put back on. Once the collar was fastened the monster returned to a German Shepard. Riley shook himself, as if there might be some remaining ash on his fur before posting up near the tree line. David looked at his brother and friend, who looked back. Riley’s long lifespan certainly made more sense. One hell of a good boy.
Summary: Odin did more than just devestate America, it caused a surge in monster and cryptid activity. Fortunately the Ghosts were trained in cryptozoology and hunting along with their normal military work. Life before this wasn't any less complicated, but now you weren't just fighting Federation troops but Federation monsters. You have your family though. They'll always come back to you, you'll always protect them and that's all you need... right?
TW: violence, cryptids, some body horror, let me know if I missed anything
Next morning you have a thermos with your tea inside. Some men in your old regiment would have flasks tucked away with booze, energy drinks or even Mountain Dew. You always kept tea around. Anytime someone asked for a sip you warned them it was hot, and got weird looks. It was their own fault when they burned their tongues.
You nurse your thermos, as you focus on the briefing. A pen in hand, you scribbled away in your journal, taking notes of the creatures Elias was discussing had been sighted recently. Some you already knew, with more information being relayed. You write it down and intend to enter them later on, when you can sort the notes better. The others are either writing notes or listening closely. The more information you had memorized the easier and faster it was to take out the monsters.
Then Elias brought up the problem target. Siren head.
You didn’t think it was possible to be this uneasy looking at a tornado siren with legs. Apparently this thing was gonna be a problem. Sound was extremely important to communication in the field. Long distance communication especially. This thing had not only power over radio waves and signals, but the plant you’d be infiltrating was also messing with plenty of tech. Kick was trying not to rage at the computer screen as a result, and was working like mad to maintain the fire wall. Taking out these walking signal jammers would make communication easier and safer, while also rattling the Federation a bit. While they would be getting their comms and orders back up and running properly, it gave your team some extra ground and the chance to make more.
When Elias showed the plant on screen, Logan kicked you under the table.
“The hell?” You asked, quietly. Logan nodded to the screen and you looked. The plant was the same as where you led the wyvern only a couple of nights ago. Once Elias finished the briefing about how they would get in and hopefully take out siren head David chimed in.
“We might have some help.” He added.
“Go on.” Elias said.
“We chased a wyvern to that same location just a couple nights ago. Figured it was spooked by something but couldn’t figure out what. It landed fine, but based on the images it’s flown off to spot we found it previously.” David said.
“Without a bond it will be more difficult to recruit a creature. If it comes down to it though it’s something to consider. If a bond is deemed necessary, Valkyrie you will be the one to form it, understood?”
You gave him a nod. "Yes sir."
“Alright let’s get moving.” Elias said.
The briefing room dispersed, with only muttered conversation and words. You looked among the few men for your father, linger in the back of the group. The search ended suddenly when Keegan whipped his head around to look for you. You paused, in front of him while the rest kept going. Keegan’s eyes were wild for a moment before he softened and looked around the room.
“Dad?” You said, leaning closer to where he was looking. Was someone around? You saw Riley continuing on with the Walker boys without little worry or care. Keegan turned his attention to you. After a quick scope you tugged him aside. “What’s going on?”
“Not important right now.” He told you. That was a lie. Keegan is a calm and collected type of person, not much could throw him off. Except…
“Is she okay?” You asked. Keegan didn’t want to answer that because honestly he wasn’t sure.
“Nessie is distressed but…” he looked at you. “Might just be her baby.”
“Wha-how when?” You asked. Keegan never got the chance to properly tell you that Nessie had a little one. “Is that even possible? I thought she needed a mate or is it-“
“I know I know.” Keegan knew you would be asking five hundred questions and there was a mission to get to. Honestly he’d hoped to tell you after the mission. Nessie’s little one had been born not long ago, and he didn’t get the chance to take you to visit her. The sudden feeling he got, he assumed was the baby getting into something it shouldn’t have. It was a feeling he used to get with you when you were younger. “It’s wearing off now. Right now focus on the objective.”
Here’s the thing about Sirenheads… they are tall, terrifying, and tricky. Radios were too high risk to use. Siren heads could imitate and alter the transimissions easily, relaying fake instructions and messages to teams. An easy lure to blood baths. Everything had to be communicated silently and visually. You had a bracelet with buttons that would send a light to the other bracelets, signalling your status. The plan was infiltrate the plant, cut off the sirenheads, and hopefully get Kick to regain some sanity.
The briefing went over siren head… but not siren heads. Which was what you had to deal with. The wyvern returning home, might have meant more monsters to drive it away again, or security had increased since the Ghosts had made themselves known again. They seemed to be scoping around, letting out loud blaring horns to each other. They don’t have eyes so you had to assume echo location was the reason for the horns. They were fucking loud and infrequent so you were kept on your toes.
Riley was doing his best not to whimper or bark back at the noise, ears flattening each time. Every blare sent the four of you into hiding, keeping quiet. Not much was going to kill them, so stealth was an absolute must. Dropping close was not an option, and moving around in the dark was far too risky, even with night vision gear. The mission started early in the morning, just as the first bits of light were peaking through. By now it was a little earlier than midday, and you were still marching. Thank god the monsters couldn’t smell, otherwise you wouldn’t have a chance to eat. When you took breaks you had to hide away still, and sitting wasn’t an option. You were grateful for lighter gear, though your sweat made the face paint around your eyes, itchy.
You took a moment to rest again, get some food in you and pressed a small button on a bracelet. The light on the bracelet blinked red and the three of you waited for a response. Riley was sniffing around for any danger. The light continued to blink red and you started getting nervous.
“You don’t think…” you trailed off quietly.
“Give it a minute.” Logan assures you. Almost on cue, the light changed to solid blue. You let out a quiet breath. The light then blinked green which meant keep going. David jerked his forward, ordering the group to press on. Ever the leader, you think to yourself leading your small team onward. You walked in a loose triangle with Riley between Logan and David, with you off to the side.
Your group maybe gets a few feet before there is another horn and you take cover, getting low and crouching. This one was loud, louder than the ones before and you could hear something coming closer towards you. Something big. Your ears are ringing from the sound but you have to ignore it, listen past it. You keep quiet, and only take a peek to make sure you know where the boys are. Logan’s dark mask covered him well, as did David’s face paint. Your half face mask and paint did the trick for you, as did your camo gear but it didn’t mean you couldn’t be spotted. As you leaned forward and spotted Riley sticking close to Hesh, you nearly slammed yourself back into place as a dried meaty limb dropped into view. Fucking hell, why was it so close?!
You held your breath, going completely still. There was the sound of static noise above you from the creature. It wasn’t moving. It had stopped in its path and was scoping. Very slowly and carefully you raised your hands to your ears, making as little sound of your own as possible. You waited with bated breath for the deafening sound. One sounded further away and you were ready for it. Suddenly the siren head moved, turning towards the sound… turning towards you. No, please no. You see movement out of the corner of your eyes where siren head was. Fuck fuck....You felt the vibrations from the foliage around you, as it lowered to all fours, almost spider like in its stance. Fuck! Don’t move. If you move you’ll make noise, it shouldn’t be able to see you. You tensed, bracing for the impact. You turned your head just a little, if only to get a better view of horror, wanting to face it yourself. You were met with a teeth inside a megaphone, opening, ready to kill.
You reached for a grenade, but you weren’t fast enough.
The siren head was snatched up, the scream it was abou tto unleash on you, feeling like a light smack to your ear drums before it was cut off. What the hell?! You looked up and saw siren head looking like an over sized snake in the claws of a hawk. It cried out in distress before being slammed down and thrashed against the ground. You stared incredulously as the siren head was back on all fours. The cryptid seemed to be shock itself as it looked around trying to figure out what happened.
It didn’t get much longer to think about as you heard a familiar cry coming in for another strike. A winged mass struck the siren head from behind skidding on top of it, and taking out a few trees. You heard the sound of dried meat being torn apart, mixed with what you can only describe as an old radio having its stations changed at random. You stayed quiet, and very hesitantly looked back to see the damage. Logan signalled you from across the newly made clearing to remain hidden. You pulled back, not getting enough of a view. You waited, hearing some more blasts from the siren heads, overhearing their kin in distress. The cacophony is overwhelming and you can see your bracelet blinking white. A warranted check in, but one you had to wait on.
Once the radio stations became nothing but static you looked to Hesh. No signal to move yet. Then there was quiet, the static cut off. David put a finger to his lips and signalled to come out of hiding. You stood, letting your legs feel some relief from crouching. You came out, with David and Logan meeting you, and Riley move towards your saviour. You were still coming down from the shot of adrenaline, even checking to make sure you hadn’t removed the pin from the grenade you intended to throw into the siren head’s mouth. Suddenly arms were around you and your face was pressed into a camo jacket. You could hear him sigh with relief.
“You okay?” Logan whispered, holding your shoulders, and looking at you. You nodded and David pat Logan’s shoulder as he stepped around the two of you. You looked at Hesh and then turned your attention to where he was looking.
On top of the mangled siren head was an old acquaintance. The three of you stood there stunned at the wyvern whose jaw and claws were stained with dry blood, on top of the torn open back of its victim. The wyvern turned its head towards your trio with Riley taking the front. Riley didn’t growl but was poised to attack at any moment.
“Do we approach it?” You asked, now fearing you might startle the wyvern. As if sensing your hesitation the wyvern approached, cautiously. You held your breath again. It was a few feet from Riley who barked to get its attention.
“Riley!” Hesh whisper shouted to the dog. The wyvern lowered its head to Riley’s level, growling softly. Riley let out a few softer barks, and the wyvern raised its eyes to your trio. It then backed off and opened its wings in triumph, but it didn’t roar. Riley turned around, returning to the group and booped your wrist with his snout. Shit the bracelet was still flashing.
You pressed a button informing the other party you were okay. They probably heard everything. The other sirenheads as well.
You needed a minute to settle, and the wyvern took off to the sky. After some water, and confirming the coast was clear you got back on track. Up above, the wyvern was circling within view. If it had fled home because of the siren heads, it certainly wasn’t bothered by them now. You don’t know what Riley had said to it but it seemed to understand your objective. The next time you are forced to hide the wyvern comes in diving like a scaled missile, and tearing it like a dog with a newspaper.
By the time you reached the plant and took cover, awaiting the other team you’d seen at least three siren heads slaughtered by the winged Titan. It now awaited above for the results of the infiltration.
Both teams took cover by the gate entrance, keeping watch for any unwanted guests.
You open fired on the men on the ground before focusing your attention to the satellites, where you could make out snipers. You looked back when you heard the siren heads ringing out a fuss. The wyvern wasn’t about to leave you out to dry, it wanted its home back. It picked up the monsters by their megaphone heads and whipped them around before tossing them away. Logan set the breaching charge on the door of the building, and you filed inside.
Your back was taken advantage of as you entered. A federation soldier came at you from behind. Merrick barked out your name, you turned blocked parried the knife, whacking your attacker in the with you gun. In his dazed state you shot him in the head. Dropped like a bad habit. The ghosts were split up again, with your team searching for any supernatural sources or other information. Riley led the way. Alarms were soundinginh but they were nothing compared to what you’d already faced. Riley barked and scratched on a door, leading to a broadcasting room. You and Logan got in position and Hesh opened the door. The three of you entered the room spread out and what you saw nearly made you throw up.
A man was slumped over the desk where one would make announcements. If you could call him a man. His flesh looked like that of the siren heads, merging into wires that were connected to a switch board. It was like some sick infection that was spreading into technology.
Hesh radioed, “Hesh to Scarecrow, we’ve found the source over.”
“Roger that Hesh, you are free to eliminate.”
Hesh ordered for open fire, and you delivered, wanting to put an end to whatever sick ritual this was. Blood burst from the corpse with it starting to swell.
“Fall back! Fall back!” Hesh ordered, withdrawing. You booked it out of there with your teammates, seeing the swelling continue. Logan shoved you to side once you were out of the room, before there was a gory explosion.
“Hesh to Scarecrow. Objective complete on our end, over.” Hesh radioed from the other side of the doorway.
“Loud and clear Hesh, we’re done here. Rendezvous at the evac point.” Elias ordered. You followed your brothers as they rushed out of the building, taking down any federation soldiers still standing.
Once you got outside you found your wyvern friend standing atop another kill, seemingly pleased to see you. You didn’t have time for pleasantries aside from a quick interaction. You hurried over, shouldering your weapon, the wyvern lowered its head. You gave it a quick neck scratch, and it let out purring sound.
“Thank you for saving my ass. Stay safe yeah?” You said. It seemed to nod, and took off as you turned and followed after your team.
As you climbed into the chopper you looked back smiling, seeing the wyvern doing victory laps over its regained home.
“Valkyrie, move your ass.” Merrick ordered. You got in and the door was slid shut. Mission accomplished.
When you returned to base you thanked Merrick for covering your ass. He just reminded you to watch it next time so he wouldn’t have to. Fair enough, you looked forward to your sparring practice. There was a debrief before you washed yourself with you, David and Logan explaining what happened to kick up the noise. Apparently, it had actually been advantageous, because the noise drew the siren heads closer to the three of you. No bond had been established either which was equally impressive.
Once you finished in the shower you were honestly ready to crash. But you wanted to know about Nessie. You found your dad, actually scratch that, your father found you. Keegan wanted to know the full details of what happened. You found somewhere more private to talk, to give him a more thorough debrief. Keegan seemed anxious as you explained everything.
“You’re sure you’re okay?” He asked.
“Would tell you if I wasn’t.” You said. Keegan knows you a little better than that. You were nearly killed, if there hadn’t been a giant wyvern to save you, you would be in a body bag, not in front of him. Something told you though that his concern wasn’t just him being a father. He was fearing for something else.
“How is Nessie?” You asked. Keegan is quiet. “Dad?”
“She was panicking a few times during that mission, but I can’t be sure if it was me, or her.” Keegan said, looking more wiped than you. He’d taken time to wash his face paint off, but you could still smell some sweat.
“Should we check on her?” You asked.
“I’ve talked to Elias, but tracking down Rorke is the priority. He doesn’t want us to spread out too far.” Keegan said. “I’ll be needed for a mission coming up.”
“I could go with David and Logan.” You offered. “Haven’t seen her in a long time.”
“You have to talk to Elias and get the okay from him.” Keegan reminded you. That you could do.
TW: threats towards animals (turn back if it's not for you)
How...just how did this happen?
Elias is still trying to wrap his head around how this could have happened. He left his sons alone for only an hour maybe and this happened! Somehow the one time the boys were able to stay in the woods out back for so long, they encounter a beast like this.
A beast with bunny like ears, a wagging tail and teeth that looked innocent but were far more menacing in Elias's eyes. Admittedly Elias was too stunned to say anything at first, before ordering his boys to get inside the house, and to leave the "puppy" in the garage. Now here he was staring down at what looked like a german shepard puppy. It tilted it's head from side to side, as if trying to figure out what Elias was thinking. Honestly Elias had no freaking clue what to think.
For a moment the man shut his eyes, and then opened them to make sure he wasn't wrong. Yep, still looked like a puppy. It sat obediently as if waiting for orders. What orders do you give a creature like this, when your sons are the one's who snuck it into the garage, thinking it was just a regular dog?!
The first thing he tries is getting the dog to run off on it's own but it didn't seem scared of him. Of course it wasn't, he was unarmed. He couldn't get a weapon without worrying his boys, seeing how much they were enthralled by the fluffy little freak. He sighed, relieved the creature was only young. Still it couldn't stay here. It likely wouldn't get into any trouble in the garage for now, so he went back inside, telling it to stay. The dog remained unmoving.
"Can we keep him?" Logan asked, before Elias could even get a word out. Every parent had to hate that question, especially when the answer was one their kid wouldn't like. Okay, first things first.
"Where did you two find it?" He asked. They were quiet, which meant they had gone out without him knowing. The woods most likely. "I need an answer."
"The woods." David said, eyes on the floor. Elias went to his boys, getting down to their level.
“Did it bite you?” Elias asked with a sense of urgency. “Either of you?”
“It licked my hand.” Logan said. Elias looked to David. David nodded.
“And you were okay?” Elias asked. David and Logan held out their hands to look at them, giving Elias a small sigh of relief.
“Can we keep him?” Logan asked again. David shushed his little brother. Elias stood up and looked to the garage door for a moment. Honestly the boys weren’t ready to learn what that thing was. If they really wanted a dog he didn’t mind them having one but that thing wasn’t a dog. Guess this would be another secret for later on.
“I’ll go take it to the vet, give it a check up, and see if he can be adopted.” Elias told them. Their eyes were hopeful. “In the meantime stay out of the woods, and I mean it.”
“Yes sir.” They both said.
Elias went into the garage, locking the door so the boys wouldn’t follow. He got a small cage out that was used for trapping. The critter recognized it, starting to scurry away but Elias was quicker. It was snatched up by the scruff and put in the cage. It whimpered as he closed the trunk. This would not be a fun drive.
Elias kept driving for a while. He wanted to ensure the boys wouldn’t find it by accident. The entire drive was yanking on his heartstrings. His boys’ excitement, the fluffy facade, and now the pleading barking of the small thing in his trunk.
He didn’t want to do it. But Elias had to. He told himself he would get the boys a dog if that’s what they truly wanted. David was saying how he thought K9s were pretty cool. He would tell them the dog couldn’t be adopted, that there was something wrong and once he had time he would take them to adopt one.
Elias kept telling himself this over and over. When he finally stopped the truck he was in the woods. He opened the trunk and pulled the cage out to see the critter still barking helplessly, gnawing at the cage. Elias didn’t scold it or bark back. The critter was young and probably didn’t know how dangerous it was. Elias was sure to grab the gun from the truck as well. Last thing he wanted was to have to circle back and have second thoughts.
Once deep enough he set down the cage down and stepped back. The puppy growled and barked, scratching at the bars. Elias had turned to put some distance but as the noises and cries continued he found turning around to be near impossible. Deep breaths.
Elias set the gun down and went over to the cage, opening it up. The puppy was wagging its tail as he took it out. It licked his face and barked excitedly. Elias had made many hard decisions but this wasn’t going to be one of them. With some work he could get the puppy whatever it needed to maintain the facade. When the boys were old enough he would tell them.
For now he carried the sweet puppy back to the truck, knowing this was an insane decision. He was starting to see what the boys saw in the critter, as it barked joyfully, being put in the passenger seat. Once he got to the driver side he gave the puppy one order.
“No shifting unless I say so. Got it?” He ordered. The puppy barked, tail wagging. “Good boy.”
The boys were happy to see Riley return with their father. While Riley wasn’t hard to train, he did require extra care. David and Logan stepped up even better than Elias had expected. They checked Riley’s diet, making sure he was getting everything he needed. Made sure he got bathed and groomed properly. They even asked Elias to show them K9 commands since Elias planned to take Riley with him on missions. There was only one major rule that the boys weren’t allowed to break.
