#filler chapter

[ghostwritingnightmares]

Finding Salvation: Chapter 17: Finding What The Point Is

Summary: You are always there to remind Olivia what the point is.

Warnings: Set after S4ep22

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You are watching the clock, counting the minutes until Olivia gets home. She had called you earlier, telling you she had finally wrapped up the case and would be coming back. There had been a heaviness in her voice that immediately told you something was off, so you prepared for her arrival.

There are a variety of bubble bath options waiting on the edge of the tub, her fluffy robe awaits on the bed, and ice cream is stocked in the freezer. You also have a candle burning on the kitchen counter, making the apartment smell like coffee with a hint of vanilla. As a backup, you have a comedy queued on the TV and blankets ready on the couch.

It had been over an hour since she had called, and there was a sinking feeling in your stomach. It was not unusual for her to get called into work after she finished a case, but this felt different. You think about calling her when the front door opens.

The relief is instant until you realise how upset she actually is. Her boots clatter against the wall as she kicks them off. Her jacket thunks to the floor when she misses the hanger, and she swears before she tries to pick it up. When it falls off the hanger the second time, she lets out a shuddering breath that has you getting off the couch.

“Liv?” You ask her as you notice her wiping away tears that roll down her face.

When she notices you standing there, she turns her back towards you. She takes a couple of deep breaths, her shoulders shaking before she can get control. When she finally looks at you, her eyes are rimmed with red. Olivia tries to speak, but more tears come instead. You open your arms, and she falls into them.

She clings to you, her face nuzzling into your neck. Your hand gently card through her hair, and you rock her gently. “It’s okay, it’s okay.”

Her quiet sobs turn into sniffles as she murmurs. “Nothing is ever okay.”

You are used to Olivia being distraught after cases, but you have never seen her this lost in her own thoughts. You pull back slightly so that you can grab her gently by the jaw. She allows you to pull her head up, but she doesn’t meet your eyes.

“Olivia, tell me what is going on in that beautiful brain of yours,” you say gently. She shakes her head and you tsk. “I want to help, and I can’t do that if you won’t let me in.”

She takes a moment before nodding. Her body shakes as she tries to explain what happened. To help her feel more comfortable, you take her hand and lead her over to the couch. You don’t give her a choice merely pull her down to sit in your lap. She curls herself around you as you pull a blanket around both of you.

“Alright, you ready to talk now?” You ask softly.

Olivia keeps one hand curled in your shirt as she begins talking. “I got into this job because I wanted to protect victims. I wanted to give them a voice when no one was listening to them.” She sniffles, taking a second before she continues. “Now, even an order of protection puts them more at risk of being stalked by their rapist. I just… I don’t see a point anymore.”

She lets out a defeated sigh before she starts again. “I went to talk to Elliot.”

“You went to Elliot’s?” You ask the hurt in your voice unavoidable.

Her face crinkles again, and her hand tightens in your shirt like you might suddenly leave her. You feel the anxiety radiating off her, so you pull her tighter against you.

“I just…I’m so worried that one day you are going to get sick of me complaining about my job,” she says with a crack in her voice. “Your job already has so much darkness to it, and then I come home, and I just add more darkness. All I am is dark. I have already lost so much in this job. I don’t want it to make me lose you, too. I can’t lose you. I can’t.”

She starts to cry again, pressing her face into your neck. You lace your fingers through her hair, kissing her forehead. “Oh, Olivia. You aren’t darkness. You are the light in my day. You are the reason I am excited to come home.”

“I just don’t know what to do anymore, Y/N,” Olivia sighs. “I’m selling a little piece of myself every time. What’s the point?”

“Hey, look at me,” you say gently. You wait until her brown eyes meet yours. “The point is that you are there to give them a voice, Olivia. In the darkest moments of their life, you are the only person who actually listens to them. You give them hope, Olivia, that’s the point.”

She lets out a wobbly smile. “How do you do it?” When you raise your eyebrow, she explains. “You always know the right thing to say, no matter the situation.”

“I channel my inner Olivia Benson and then say what she would in this situation,” you say, which makes her laugh.

“Smartass.”

“It made you smile, which is what I was aiming for,” you say, kissing her forehead again. “Now, how do we turn this night around?”

“Shower, cuddles, and ice cream?” Olivia asks sheepishly.

“If that is what my baby wants, that is what my baby gets,” you say, untangling your arms so that she can stand.

When she is back on your feet, she reaches for your hand, and you follow her through the apartment. In the bathroom, you perch on the counter recounting the trials of your day. She listens intently, asking questions when appropriate, and making lighthearted jokes when necessary. You can tell from the way she comes out of the warm water that she feels lighter.

There is a twinkle in her brown eyes and a smile on her lips as she leans in to kiss you. It’s short and sweet before she wanders to the bedroom to pull on her robe. Once she ties the string around her waist, she turns back to pull you in by the hips.

“You are the best thing that ever happened to me,” she says softly. “My finding salvation.”

Your cheeks burn at the admission, and you lean in to kiss her. “Mm, I think you have that backwards, my love.”

“We can argue about it over ice cream,” she winks, heading towards the kitchen.

You are halfway through a movie with empty ice cream containers on the coffee table when Olivia falls asleep. Her head is placed in your lap, and one of her hands is curled in yours. Your fingers gently run through her short hair, watching as her chest rises slowly. You wish you could put into words the way Olivia has saved you, but instead you settle for this moment of peace in this dark world.

-

Taglist

@writerspirit // @milfslvr // @marvel210 // @impossiblewolf // @violet-amore // @teadah18 // @ffionhxw // @lawolsonlover // @natromanoff14

[lvlykissmet]

𝙶𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝙾𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝙷𝚞𝚛𝚍𝚕𝚎𝚜 (𝚆𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚈𝚘𝚞) - 𝙸𝚝𝚊𝚏𝚞𝚜𝚑𝚒 𝚃𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝙰𝚄

𝒻𝒾𝓁𝓁𝑒𝓇 𝓈𝓂𝒶𝓊 𝒸𝒽𝒶𝓅𝓉𝑒𝓇!

𝑀𝑒𝑔𝓊𝓂𝒾 𝒫𝒪𝒱:

𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘧𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘺𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘵 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘦𝘳 <3

𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚕 𝚏𝚒𝚌 𝚘𝚗 𝙰𝙾𝟹:

An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works

[fairchild06]

Riptides And Memories- Chapter 54

Andrea changed the direction of her finger, sending a small mark across her lover's chest.

"Ow," he voiced from his position on the bed.

"You've been hurt worse," she waved off.

"My girlfriend, so uncaring to my injured state," he teased.

She readjusted her position so she was laying on his chest completely. "You keep talking like that sweetheart, you're sleeping on the desk chair."

"You realise you're only proving my point," Aaric stated. Despite his words, he looked at her tenderly, love in his eyes.

She narrowed her eyes. "You're the one who can't handle a simple flick."

"Should I show you my foot?" he asked. "I'm sure the scar is still there from your knife."

She rolled her eyes. "You always bring that one back."

"Because it's a useful point," he argued.

"It's old. Find a new point or stop arguing."

"Shall I introduce the scratch mark on my stomach as exhibit a?"

Andrea scoffed. "I was popping a pimple."

"I don't have a pimple on my stomach."

Andrea ran a hand over the place she had just marked. "You did. Right on your big, strong abs."

His lips quirked in a smiled. "Are you saying I have nice abs, Riptide?"

Andrea rolled her eyes but smiled as well. "Yes, Aaric Greycastle, I am saying you, my lover and gym bro, have very nice abs."

He furrowed his brows. "What the hell is a gym bro?"

She shrugged. "Just an expression from my world. It means you go to the gym a lot."

He gripped her hips and pulled her up his body. "As I recall, you like my very nice abs."

She smiled against his lips. "I do." She kissed him, feeling herself relax in his grip. His one hand worked its way from her hip up her spine to the back of her neck. She pressed herself further into him, like she could join their skin together if she tried.

He groaned as he pulled away. "You're not playing fair, Riptide."

"I never said I would play fair," she stated. She leaned down and kissed his neck, working her way down his skin. He groaned under her touch. She liked feeling him above her, in her, feeling him care for her. But she also loved hearing him groan for her, how he melted under her touch, how the sun-

The sun?

Andrea sat up and looked to the window. It was the time of year that the rise of the sun meant to get up. She sighed in resignation. Isrr had let her stay in bed that morning since they were leaving for the front lines the next morning. She had used the time wisely, yet it still felt too short. "We need to get up," she stated sadly.

Aaric groaned beneath her, not in the way she liked. "Do we have to?" he asked.

She turned back to Aaric. "Unfortunately, yes. We both have things we need to do today."

He sighed and sat up so they were face to face. "We don't have to."

She kissed his nose. "You, my love, are taking the rebellious prince trope to a whole new level." She got out of bed, walking to the armoir to get dressed. "Get up, you're still a Rider."

She could feel his stare on her backside. "Yes, ma'am."

Andrea caught his arm before he could move to the bathroom. She pulled him down. Instead of going for his lips, she redirected and kissed his neck. He groaned, then yelped as she sucked harshly.

She pulled away, smiling at the sight of the mark on his neck.

"What was that for?" he asked.

"Multiple reasons," she admitted. Andrea drew out the breast wraps and began the long winding of them. "My own satisfaction, a promise, but also so those needy bitches know to stay away."

Aaric shook his head and walked into the bathroom. "Only you, Riptide."

That made her smile.

Later, Andrea was able to catch her squad leader before he left formation.

"Hey, Harvelle," she called. He didn't stop but motioned for her to walk with him. She caught up to his stride and asked, "You're a metallurgist, right?"

He furrowed his brows but nodded. "I am. Why?"

"I got some armor on the trip to the Isles," she related. "But it's bent out of shape and doesn't fit my.... it was made for a guy. I was hoping you might reshape it for me."

He furrowed his brows. "Really?"

She nodded. "Yeah. Can you?"

"Maybe," he admitted. "I know you head out to Montserrat tomorrow. If you bring it to dinner tonight, I can have it done by the time you get back."

She smiled at him. "That would be great. Thanks. I owe you, really."

He shook his head. "I'm just doing my job, Durran."

"I still appreciate it," she informed. She jogged a little to catch up to the rest of her squad.

"What was that about?" Patrisiah asked.

"Just needed a favour was all," Andrea informed. "History first, right?"

Zay nodded. "You need my notes again?"

"Probably," she admitted. "I can remember the dates, but I swear to the gods I get the events mixed up."

"Doesn't help half the shit is wrong," Palos reminded.

"That too," Andrea agreed.

"Hope you're ready for the test on Monday then," Isaak stated.

Andrea groaned in pain. "Fuck. I forgot about that."

"Study session this weekend?" Zay proposed.

"Can't," Andrea stated. "I'm flying out tomorrow morning so Isrr can spend time with Teine. I'm gone all weekend."

Patrisiah shook her head. "Seems like too much of a hassle."

Andrea raised a brow at her. "It's either I fly out every now and then, or I put my dragon through insurmountable pain."

"I meant the mating process entirely," Patrisiah clarified. "I don't see the point in bonding yourself to someone entirely."

Zay winced. He was so emotionally destroyed by their fight it was nearly pathetic.

"Some people don't," Andrea admitted. "But I won't begrudge my dragon his love."

Patrisiah paused at this, watched her face. "Do you mean that? About the... some people?"

Andrea nodded. "I've heard of it, yes."

The older girl went silent at that.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Andrea landed in Montserrat, Isrr taking off a second after she dismounted. We made it, Andrea sent to Mira. Isrr just flew off so make sure your shields are up.

The response was faded, like she was far away. "He might have to wait, we're on patrol. Though I have a feeling that'll be ending shortly."

Andrea smiled as she walked through the gate. I'm gonna head to the barracks, set my stuff down. If you need a fight when you get back, let me know. She slid her shields up, allowing Mira her privacy and blocking Isrr at the same time.

Yet, when she moved to the interior, she heard sounds of conflict coming from down the hall. She followed, thinking that Infantry and Riders may have gotten in a scuffle (wasn't unheard of).

Instead, she found a converted sparring space. There were half a dozen mats on the ground, a table on its side leaned against the wall and chairs stacked in a corner. There were large windows against opposite side of the room, with marks on the wall. Some of the marks were still smoking or showed other signs of being recent. Three of the mats were occupied. Two were Riders, another was a Rider and an Infantry soldier.

Andrea stopped in the door, watching. The Riders were using signets, metallurgy and flames in clear display. As well as a wind signet against the Infantry officer.

One Rider saw Andrea and paused in incredulity. He gained a punch across the jaw for good measure. He stumbled back and glared at his opponent. "Stop-dammit Lucas, stop. Asshole."

Lucas smirked. "What, can't take a punch all of a sudden?"

"There's a fucking cadet, dickwad," the first Rider stated.

In unison, everyone stopped and turned to Andrea. She waved awkwardly. "Hi." If she wasn't as old as she was, she was sure her voice would've cracked.

An older Rider, almost in his forties, crossed his arms as he looked at her. "What are you doing here, cadet?"

"Mandatory leave, sir," she provided. She pulled out the missive she always carried for trips like these. "My dragon is mated with one of the dragons stationed here. I'm just here so they don't go crazy."

The Rider took the missive, his hair an equal balance of grey and brunet. He scanned it before refolding it giving it back. "Sounds like a hassle."

Andrea shrugged. "He gets laid and I get a break from seeing Carr's face. I call it a win."

The Rider from before, Lucas laughed, a gleam in his eyes. "Oh, you might just be my new favourite person here. What's your name, kid?"

"Andrea Durran."

"Durran?" The Infantry officer spat.

Andrea felt her walls raising. By the look on his face, he definitely knew about her relation to Xaden, likely still considered her a traitor. "Heard of it?"

He scoffed and walked out. Andrea stepped out of the way, sure he would have bumped her shoulder otherwise.

"He seems friendly," she muttered.

"Ignore Curtis," a younger Rider with blue hair advised. "He's got a stick up his ass on a good day."

"What's your signet?" another asked.

"Illusions."

"Haven't heard of one manifesting since Kaori," the one fighting Lucas remarked.

Andrea shrugged. She raised her hand and a small snake head slithered out from her sleeve. It spiraled up her wrist before settling at her fingertips. Its ebony black scales reflected the magelights, underbelly golden and eyes swallowing any light. It was small, barely half an inch wide yet the Riders all took a step back at the sight of it. Its tongue flicked out, tasting the air before its head lowered and it faded to smoke.

"I'm practicing," she admitted. "Can't hold it very long yet."

"That's fucking impressive," the blue haired one stated.

"How long are you here, Durran?" the older Rider asked.

"Just the weekend," she replied.

"Since you're here..." Lucas stepped off as their opponent gestured to the mat. "Why don't you show us what Basgiath has been teaching you?"

Andrea shrugged off her pack and set it by the door. She took off her flight jacket. She eyed the Rider as she made her way over. Tall, knives, no visible signet but a possible psychic one. There was a sword on their back, meaning they knew how to wield it.

Andrea drew her shortsword and stepped up to the mat. Might as well try it while getting her ass beat.

The Rider squatted into position. They drew their sword.

"Begin!" Lucas exclaimed.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"You're a dumbass," Mira admonished later that night.

Andrea shrugged, disinfecting a cut on her arm. "I was trying to get some training in. What's the difference when I'm fighting with you?"

"The difference is you put your life in a stranger's hands!" Mira shouted.

"I did the same when I told Isrr to bond with Teine."

Mira had to take a step back in shock from her blank tone. "You... You already knew me-"

"Barely," Andrea admitted. "I had no idea how you would react to this. I trusted that he was making a good choice because I knew my dragon. But I was worried about you. I wasn't sure how you would respond and that terrified me." She picked up the needle and thread for stitches.

Mira was silent as Andrea threaded the needle.

"I was trying to get stronger," Andrea continued. "Because I know things are amping up. And I don't know how to help. So I thought if I train, if I get stronger, maybe I could be of use."

Normally, these words were saved for the bond. But with their dragons currently mating, neither wanted to poke that bond in case the backsplash of emotions might send them spiraling.

Mira walked closer and took the needle. "You can barely see it. Let me stitch you up."

Andrea nodded. She grit her teeth as Mira completed the first stitch.

"What can I expect?" Mira asked. "When things... amp up?"

Andrea bit her lip, unsure if she should share all the details. Yet that arrow in her bag proved she was changing things. And not just in a small way. A man was alive because of her. Maybe... she might be able to save Mira too.

"A battle in Aretia," she responded. "The wards get raised."

Mira paused. "One of the Irids?"

Andrea nodded. "Then... a battle in Draithus. In April. I think? I don't know. The timeline is confusing. I can't tell you exact dates because I don't know."

Mira nodded. "What causes the battle? How does it start? You said the books follow Violet's perspective, so how is my sister there?" Her fingers caught the needle and tugged to get the skin to close together.

Andrea closed her eyes. "You. You and Teine get captured by Theophanie, that Maven that's been obsessed with Violet."

Mira stilled entirely. Her jaw clenched. "You're wrong."

"Mira, for the love of God, I wish I was. God, I can't... I will never forget that scene. And I am sorry, but that happens. When has something not happened?"

"Traeger didn't die," she countered. Her voice was still full of firm marble.

"That was random happenstance," Andrea stated. "I wasn't trying to pull the arrow card. It just happened. This is something I have no control over, no choice. Mira, I hate it, gods I do, but this will happen."

Mira tied off the thread of the final thread. "No."

Andrea closed her eyes. "I wish it wasn't true."

Mira stepped away from her. "Go to your barracks."

Mira didn't talk to her for the rest of her stay.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"No need to worry about the guards who escorted you. They were punished rightly, their families sent the soldiers' things. You understand I had no choice. They lost the prince, and my son. Such a thing cannot stand."

-Excerpt of the second letter from King Tauri the Wise, Calldyr Palace to Aaric Greycastle, Rider's Quadrant, Basgiath

Taglist: @littowl

[malarkgirlypop]

MEDIC! Part 36 (Donald Malarkey x Fem!OC)

Sorry for the delay!

Based on the HBO show and the actors who portray the characters, not hate to anyone involved.

Tag list: @imusicaddict, @b00ks1ut , @mstiemountainhop, @awaterfalls anyone else please let me know.

Although it would’ve been lovely to lie in bed all day, Don had to be up early that morning for training and then we all had to meet for the lottery to be drawn.

The men had not stopped talking about their points. If the soldiers earned enough points, they were able to cash them in and leave for home. However they needed at least 85 points to be granted leave. Unfortunately for Easy most of them did not have enough for this incentive.  

So, the Army had offered that one man could be randomly drawn from the lottery, and if his name was pulled he was able to go home. The men were most excited. 

I stretched my tired limbs as the sun streamed through the curtains. I needed to get up and seize the day but the thought of staying in bed for a little while longer was so enticing. I snuggled back down into my soft duvet smiling to myself about the memories of last night. 

Never had I been so vulnerable and so loved in my life. I didn’t feel like it was real. I was nobody important but Don made me feel like the luckiest person in the world. I wondered what my mother would think of him, if she got to meet him. Would she like him? I’m sure she would, she loved anyone who made me happy and he made me the happiest girl in the universe. 

I soon heaved myself out of bed, feeling guilty lying around all day doing nothing. Wandering down to the main building to see if there were any jobs for me to do, I stumbled across Speirs. He brushed past me, busy with the paperwork he read over as he walked, he missed me altogether. I turned, my eyes following the man as my steps faltered. Unsure if I should carry on with my day or chase after him. I stepped from one foot to the other trying to make a split decision, but the longer I took the further away the man strode.   

“Captain Speirs.” I called after a lengthy debate, I scurried after the tall raven haired man. Too engrossed in his own world he didn’t hear my yells for him. 

“Speirs!” I tried again as I gained on the Captain. 

“Ron!” My fingers latched onto the sleeve on his jacket pulling him to a stop. He cast a glance over his shoulder, glaring down at me. 

“What do you want, Lane?” His pointed tone cut through me. Tightness wrapped around my throat as I fought the emotions that tried to pull to the surface. 

“Can I talk to you?” I asked, thankfully the shake in my voice was subtle enough not for him to notice. I took a deep breath, trying to regain my composure, so that I could have a proper conversation with Speirs. 

“I’m busy, Lane, talk to someone else.” Speirs turned away, but my grasp didn’t falter, I still clung on dearly to his sleeve. 

“I would like to apologise.” I breathed, my hopes were high that he would listen to me. 

“What for? You have nothing to apologise to me about.” 

His words stung. I bit my lip, my pesky emotions still fighting for air time. 

“Like you said, we are not family, I have no loyalties to you, nor you me.” Speirs’ words were curt and cold, like his expression as he frowned down his nose at me. 

“I lied, I wanted to hurt you, like I was hurting. I let my feelings, my anger get the better of me. I am so sorry for what I said. I didn’t mean it. You are a very special person to me, Ron. You have looked after me when I had no one to turn to. You set aside your treasures just for me, so that I could have a chance at a decent life if I went back home. I have never thanked you for all that you have done. I took your kindness for granted. I took you for granted. Then I threw it all back in your face, when all you were trying to do was care for me, like you always have.” I panted, breathless from my long spiel. 

Speirs’ brows crinkled in the centre, as he took me in. “So, who am I to you?” He asked hesitantly. 

“You’re the older brother I wished I had, the father I never met. But most importantly you’re you. Unapologetically you. Kind, caring, stubborn, brave. You got me through things I don’t think I could’ve done by myself. But for circumstances I can’t explain, I’m not in a position where I can come home with you. As much as I would love to, there are just some things that are out of my hands.” 

A whirlwind of emotions stormed behind Ron’s dark eyes. He was always one I couldn’t read, his face always stoney, giving little away. But from the shimmer of light from his pupils, I felt as if I could read every thought in his head. But I wanted him to confirm my suspicions. 

“Well?” I asked impatiently as he looked at me unspeaking. 

“I forgive you, Em.” 

I didn’t think my nickname falling from his mouth would give me such relief, but it did. My heart beat faster again, a flush rose to my cheeks, as if that one sentence breathed life back into me again. I sighed in relief, letting my smile shine. 

“Oh, thank god.” I laughed, feeling more at ease. I tugged his sleeve closer, pulling him into my tight embrace. 

“I never want to fight with you again. That was horrible!” 

Speirs chuckled into the side of my neck as he hugged me back tighter. 

“So I’m assuming you and Don worked out your little tiff?” Speirs’ voice was muffled as he spoke into my hair. I nodded into his shoulder. 

“We always work it out. But you know I’m all about the drama.” I joked, feeling bad that one argument with Don sent me spiralling. 

“I know it’s not an excuse, but I’m getting used to being loved again.” I admitted quietly. 

Funny, I never knew that being without love for so long would have such an impact on my mental wellbeing. I got used to being alone, being the only person who would look out for me. 

“We have loved you for a long time Em, you just didn’t realise it.” Speirs stepped back from our hug, running his hand across my cheek gently. 

“I have to apologise to Nix and Winters’. I didn’t treat them very nicely either.” I chewed the inside of my mouth anxiously.      

Speirs’ hand found my shoulder giving me a squeeze of reassurance. “Just go and be honest and they will forgive you.” 

I smiled back at the tall man as he gazed warmly at me.     

So I did just that, I had found Nix and Winters sitting out on the patio of the office soaking in the sun like two cats. Even though I was rude to them previously they greeted me with warm smiles and open arms. I apologised to them, but they shook their heads only grinning. 

Nix had laughed, uttering, “marital issues.” Before we all burst into fits of giggles. 

I felt much more at ease now that I had finally righted all my wrongs. I rushed back to my room to get ready for the lottery, we needed to be dressed in our best attire. George had kindly given me his spare, his pants and top came up a little short but not by much. 

Unfortunately the tops weren’t really fitted for breasts, the buttons gaped around my chest. I tried my best to squish them down, but it was no use. 

“Em, you ready?” Don knocked at my door. 

“Coming!” I hopped to the door pulling on my boot, I swung it open to find a grinning Malarkey. 

“You forgot the hat!” 

I reached up, patting my bare head, groaning in annoyance. I was already running behind. 

Don strode into the room while I continued to try and put on my shoes. I sat on the edge of my bed tying up the laces as Don made a triumphant noise. 

“Look up.” Malarkey said tilting my chin up, he fixed the points and fitted the cap to my head. 

He stood back scrutinising his work before his face cracked into a smile, “Perfect.” 

—----------------------------------------------

We stood in lines as Speirs spoke to the men. A man in each company would get the chance to go home. All of Easy was present for this announcement, you could feel the tension in the air. Harry drew from a helmet his fingers finding a small piece of paper with one lucky man’s name on it. Or so it would seem, I glanced over Tab’s shoulder as he carried the helmet back from the front. It was empty. No other pieces of paper remained in the container. I glanced around to see if anyone had seen what I saw. But everyone just held sly smiles on their lips.  

“For Easy company, the winner is.” Speirs announced as Harry handed him the unopened parchment. 

“Serial number, 1-3-0-6-6-2-6-6. Sergeant Darrell C. Powers.” 

My eyes flitted to Shifty, a look of shock and surprise graced his features. A cheer rose from the crowd. The brightest smile broke across his face as he looked around to his fellow comrades. Shifty was the most deserving of this award, never in my time with Easy had I ever heard him complain or bitch. He always had a kind word for everyone, a sweet smile and worked so hard. 

I couldn't help but share his excitement as tears pricked the corners of my eyes and emotion welled in my throat. The rest of Easy seemed to share my pride as they all smiled widely cheering him on. 

Shifty shook his head in disbelief as Grant whispered congratulations in his ear. 

“Sergeant Grant will see to it that 2nd platoon takes over at the Crossroads checkpoint, beginning at 2200 hours.” Speirs announced. 

Neither Grant nor Christenson looked very pleased. Today was the anniversary of D-Day. The men were looking forward to celebrating tonight, but the early start of the watch would cut into their celebrations. 

“General Taylor has also announced that the 101st Airborne Division will definitely be redeployed to the Pacific.” Speirs’ speech caught my attention again. I knew there was a possibility of us going to the Pacific and that’s why the men had been training, but the confirmation that it was definitely going to happen made my heart sink. 

I was hoping that it would be over soon, I couldn't remember the exact dates the wars had finished but I was sure it was near. 

Glancing around the rest of Easy seemed to hold the same sentiment, sober looks plagued the group. Don looked stoic, his face blank. I reached out curling my pinky finger around his, he glanced down at our entwined fingers, a small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. 

Don’s hand squeezed mine back as Ron continued with his announcement. At least we would have each other when we went. 

—------------------------------------------------

“You’re such a sore loser, Tab!” Luz teased his friend as Floyd slammed his cards down on the table. 

“I swear you’re cheating, Luz.” He scowled as the rest of the men around the table chuckled. They were all losing to Luz but Tab was losing the most. 

“Em how about you play a round?” Tab egged me on, the only person who sucked more at poker than him was me. 

“No, she’s not playing. Em’s still banned from last time.” Don shook his head adamantly, he was still salty about how many packs of smokes he had to cough up. I told him it was for the better and that smoking was terrible for his health, he didn’t believe me. 

“I'm helping Don, we’re a team.” I leant back against Don batting my eyelashes up at him. I had crawled into his lap during the last round and he refused to let me go. 

“Is that why Tab’s almost beating you?” Grant queried, he still had a couple hours before him and his platoon had to be out at the checkpoint. 

“I’m not losing, just playing safe.” Don muttered glaring down at his new hand that had been dealt by Bull while we were all talking. 

Easy men sat around the circular table looking like that one famous painting of the dogs playing poker. They all wore serious looks as they eyed each other and their hands. The room was dim as the fire roared in the corner making the space cosy. I snuggled down into Don’s side, his arms wrapped around me so he could hold his cards in front of us. 

“Mind your face.” Don whispered in my ear as I scrutinised the cards. I relaxed my features and glanced around at the men hoping no one saw. Luz grinned at me as he shoved some of his chips to the centre of the table. 

“Think I might have to be all in with that face you made Em. Are you sure you’re helping?” Luz puffed on his smoke as I stuck my tongue at him. 

“Why don’t you help us all and sit on Luz’s knee for a turn.” Perco joked as Luz shoved him in the arm. 

“Look at Don’s face.” Lieb laughed. I glanced behind me to find a glowering Malarkey, his hand left his cards and instinctively pulled me closer.   

“No one’s gonna steal her from you Malarkey, relax.” Babe patted Don’s shoulder but his grip never lessened. 

“You’re so cute.” I pinched his cheeks and peppered his face with light kisses, earring a groan from the whole room. 

“Stop it! I’m trying to focus!” Webster moaned. 

Popcorn and other snacks were hurled at us as we laughed.

My lids drooped from the heat of the fire, it was like being wrapped in a warm blanket. The men had been playing for hours, their chatter faded into the background like white noise. I shifted my position in Don’s lap, my head rested against his chest as my legs were draped over the side of his legs. 

Each time Don spoke his voice rumbled in his chest, his heartbeat and breathing remained even. With each breath it lulled me further to sleep. I wanted to leave ages ago but Don refused to come back to the room with me but he also didn’t want me to leave alone. 

“Alright fellas, I have to head.” Grant's voice peaked my interest over my sleep. I cracked open my eyes to see him scooting his chair back from the table and gathering his winnings. 

I shot up from my position startling Don, his cards falling to the floor. “Em!” 

“I’m going back to my room.” I yawned, stretching my arms over my head. “Grant will walk me.” I gestured over to the man who was now looking over at us at the mention of his name. 

“Says who?” Grant replied annoyed but his eyes held a glint of amusement. 

“I’ll see you later.” I kissed Don on the cheek leaping out of his lap. “Bye guys!” I waved to the rest of the men as I caught up to Grant who held the door open for me, the men all waved me off wishing me a goodnight. 

The chill of the night woke me up as we left the warm building. Grant walked beside me. 

“You don’t have to walk me to my room.” I bumped his shoulder. “Don wouldn’t let me go by myself, said there were scary men out here. I don’t see any scary men.” 

“I’ll walk you, Don would have my head on a stick if you got hurt under my care.” Grant’s arm swung around my shoulder squeezing me into his side. 

“You’ll be late for checkpoint duties.” I looked up at him. 

“How about you come to the checkpoint and then I’ll drop you home?” Grant suggested. 

“Sounds like a plan.” I grinned following Grant to the jeep that was parked down the way.

***************************************

Chapter 37

[abbynx]

Dio's Doll II

Yandere DIO X Vampire Reader

Genre: Just a filler chapter covering JJBA Part 2, so no DIO yet.

Warning: Grieving, deaths, existential angst

Part I

A/N: The extent of Dio's damage not only to your life, but your loved ones as well.

- Devastated was an understatement upon the news following after Jonathan and Erina's departure. It took Straits and his apprentices to hold you back and Speedwagon to ease you from looking for Erina yourself, damning your own life in search for the woman even in sunlight.

If you'd have known there were ways in which that damned creature would have lived, you wouldn't have moped and mourn the loss of your mortal life and instead focused on hunting him down, Jonathan and Erina wouldn't have to face Dio again.

"Erina!"

You ran to hold her in your arms upon spotting her from a distance. For a moment she jumps, but soon found herself melting in your arms, letting herself to be held after a long, tumultuous moments of her life and she held on tight, Letting her face against your chest and letting out silent tears. Soon, she was freely sobbing on your chest, clutching the fabric of your shirt.

"It's okay... Let it all out." You run your hand against her back.

- Your vampiric abilities, you've never deliberately made use of them. Not the ice breath, nor the laser in your eyes. As for your speed and strength, it is something you unintentionally use every damn time, but over time, you made sure to always be careful around everything you interacted with. Because of this, the Tibetan monks who practiced Hamom never considered you a threat... But you senses a certain Straizo's gaze looming over you. Unsettling, but you simply brushed it aside.

- You stood as another parental figure when Erina and Jonathan's child was born, even occasionally visiting the child Erina had saved from the shipwreck. Even at a young age, Elizabeth found herself at awe with you. You took babysitting duties when Erina was busy throughout the day as a teacher, while you take in the children to your room that was draped with black curtains as to not let in a ray of sunlight.

Sometimes you find yourself in a daze whenever you lay eyes on George II, as you started to see more and more of Jonathan in his son's visage as he grew. Eventually you'd snap from your gaze before resuming to whatever task you were tending to.

"Y/N? Are you okay?" George places his small hands on either sides of your cheeks when you started to daze off while staring at him. It was a sweet little habit of his, as his mother would do the same to him as a sign of affection and/or concern.

"I'm fine, George. It's just..." A look into his eyes, the eyes like his father's, as they glimmer under the candlelight with an innocence so precious and familiar. "I'm sleepy." You lied, giving him a closed-eyed smile. It wasn't a complete fabrication, you haven't had the chance to sleep.

"You can sleep. It's all dark in your room anyways, it always feels like it's night."

Unlike other children, George has become accustomed to the dark. There are no monsters hiding in the corners of the room, there was only his lovely god parent, Y/N. And Y/N is sweet, kind and sneaks him candies when mother isn't looking.

- Maybe it was Jonathan's semblance you were seeing in George that made you close to him, but you were close to the young Joestar nonetheless. At some point in his life he realised how you look so... Unchanging beside his mother and uncle Speedwagon, looking as he remembers you in his childhood. That's when he had the talk about your being and everything started to make sense to him. How your room was draped with dark curtains, how you roam the night and sleep at day, your sharp teeth, your impressive strength and speed... And yet he never treated you any differently.

You knew, at some point this day was coming and you prepared yourself for it. You know how some people could not handle the thought of a night crawler, blood-sucking monster within his proximity. You were ready to leave him be if he sees it fit... But like his father, his views of you were unchanged.

"You don't... See me as anything else? You're not scared?"

"Why would I be scared of you? You're Y/N. Just sweet, kind Y/N watched over me at night."

- Your life has been catered to by Speedwagon and his newfound wealth, which he uses to help you. Supplying you your meals and such, and by the next few years, you need a new identity to take on. He has already crafted an identity for you as to not make a rise of suspicion among others. Not only that, he has been funding developers to invent certain devices for you to use and finally be kissed by the sun.

"Oh Robert you don't have to—"

"Nonsense, Doctor Y/N. I promised Jonathan to take care of you and Erina, hell, the rest of your bloodline. I owe that to him." His hands held yours within it, the warmth of his care seeping in your skin, which you couldn't help but to feel it heating your cold, dead hands.

"You're a good man, Robert. A friend like no other. Jonathan was very lucky to have found you."

- There wasn't a moment where Dio would not cross your mind. He'd be adrift in your thoughts, your dreams... How he would return and further torture you in your deathless life. Something Erina would make the conscious effort to quell you of these demons and hold you as long as you need to, talk idly about the years of what felt like fleeting moments to you. Talks of her day, reminiscing of the past, from your childhood with Jonathan, to Erina's relationship with him. Sharing the solidarity of cursing Dio's name for ruining your relationships with Jonathan.

"He's in hell. Sunken at the very bottom."

"With all he's done, I agree Erina."

- At the age of Enlightenment, the flourishing of humanity, you find yourself studying the new discoveries and let go of the updated practices you've learned back when you were a doctor. Though you were out of practice for a long time now, you always tried to update your studies in medicine. Though you were out of practice, you were always happy to help with whatever injuries anyone in your tight circle of friend have. George always anticipated to get hurt in one way of another, and so he was always on your table as you patch him up despite how minor those injuries were.

- Life is nice, years breezed by like mere seconds in your eyes and before you knew it, everyone around you were aging while you barely changed but they treat you all the same. At your worse days, your thoughts would drift at the inevitability of your loved ones end, seeing how they already age throughout the years, while it does not feel long in your perspective. It was a thought always at the back of your mind, rearing its ugly head occasionally to remind you everyone you will ever come to know and love will slip through your fingers and taken by time.

And at those days, Erina was always by your side, like she had always been.

"I cannot imagine how dreadful it must feel the way you do, I am so sorry... But know that no matter what, I will always be by your side for the rest of you days and know that I cherish every moment with you."

- George became a pilot during the war, married to Elizabeth. George was a thoughtful man Erina raised him to be and with his fondness of you, he organised his wedding to occur at night time just so you too can bear witness to Erina and Jonathan's boy marry the love of his life. He wanted you like you have always been, an important part of his life.

Shortly after that, or what seems like it in your perspective, George introduced you to his baby boy Joseph. You were immediately enchanted to Joseph just as you were to George, you swore the same oath to protect the baby boy from harm.

"He looks like George... And his father..." Erina gently coos, holding the baby against her chest with a soft smile. Her curled finger nudging the baby's chin, before moving the coot just slightly to reveal the entirety of his face and giggled when the bundle whimpers. "Don't you think so?" Erina glances at you through her glasses.

"He does..." You had a hearty smile whilst wrapping an arm around Erina before using a curled finger to trace Joseph's forehead. "Hello Joseph."

Elizabeth can only smile at the sight of her mother-in-law and you smile like this for once. All her life, she had always sensed a certain gloom within your spirits, weighing heavily on your body, burdening your minds. This might just be the first time she had seen you in light spirits and she hoped for it to last.

Unfortunately, it didn't.

- The way your whole world collapsed from the news of George's death, how it was caused by a monster of your own kind and Elizabeth's revenge resulting to an exile. Everything was going well, for the first time you felt as though your past will no longer catch up to you, you trusted George can handle himself but it was a creature whom you are associated with— you could have saved him. You could have saved him but you weren't there. Elizabeth had to finish the job resulting for her to flee the country, when you could have done that yourself. You should have done something but you didn't.

In the middle of the tumultuous moment, this time, your own thoughts did not strangle you. Your first priority was Erina.

"Erina... I am so sorry..."

She was no longer the young woman she had been when Jonathan died to protect her, but a woman damaged with grief but strengthened by the knowledge that Jonathan would have wanted her to live on, kindness still in her heart. She appreciate every single gesture you so willingly provide her, from your words to action, you always knew what to say to soothe her woes.

She held you close, tears staining your chest. You run your fingers through her hair, whilst the other stroked her back.

- And so you raised Joseph with Erina once again, with Robert occasionally dropping by to spoil the boy. Joseph had always been so fond of you, as you were less strict compared to Erina and because of that, the mischievous boy always hid behind you whenever he would get in trouble.

"Hi Y/N!" He greets as wraps his arms around your waist, tactically turning you to use your back as a shield.

"What is it now, JoJo?" You sighed. "What have you done?"

"Nothing, nothing is wrong."

You glared at the cheeky boy.

"I know what you're gonna say—"

"I swear if you're hiding from Erina again I am taking your comics away."

Glancing at him with wide eyes, you began to think how he did it, while he can only give you a gummy grin.

- Joseph is sweet and thoughtful in his own way, unaware of your being as supernatural yet, was confused of your living habits, questioned and judged you for it, but followed nonetheless. For example, when daylight would come, he would immediately close the curtains just so you can tread the house if you wanted to. He never thought you'd be a vampire, he just thought you were weird.

"How come you can't come into the light?" He asks, as he cautiously open the dark velvet curtains by a crack, to see whether the sun had completely set before fully pulling them back.

"I might burn." You flatly answer, as all day he has been tugging on you clothes while you do chores in the house with him tailing behind you with myriads of questions in his mind.

"So you're not allowed at all?"

"Correct, JoJo."

Joseph is a smart boy, cheeky little scamp with a tongue so slivery and silver knows just how he can escape any situation. All day, he had been questioning you and your entire being and you answered them as frank as you can. Perhaps now he has figured out--

"Aha! I've got it!" He shouts with convinction, before pointing at you. "You're allergic to sunlight! Hence why you look as though you've never aged a day, you remain unchanged due to the fact you never see the light of day and absorb rays!"

Your expression dropped.

"Actually--"

"Do no tell me, I know I'm right!"

... having been dealing with his shenanigans, you simply gave up with a sigh. It's been a long day.

- When Speedwagon summoned you, Erina and Joseph from England to New York, you wasted no time to go there, as it must have been urgent. Aside from that, you have also wanted to see your dear friend for a long time now and perhaps look around America for awhile.

Joseph being Joseph, has already caused mayhem left and right once he arrived, but he has also managed to meet a new friend who joined you and Erina to dinner. His friend Smokey was a touch distant when it came to you, perhaps sensing the monster within you. Erina also senses this and comforted you, holding your hand under the table.

Of course, as much you don't like it when Joseph has the tendancy to cause chaos in public, but there are a few occurrences where you supported him. Back in your day, you weren't allowed to fight back against those who stomped on you. And hell, you were not about to make Joseph experience the same thing.

- When the news suddenly came to you of Robert's death, your initial response was to hold Erina and escort her home. It was good you did, Straizo had apparently succumb to the desire to have the same curse you bear and began to cause chaos in New York where Joseph was able to stop it. The youth, the power, Straizo claimed that you do not see the true beauty of Dio's gift. Then Straizo dropped the news that Speedwagon is alive and that there were other threats for Joseph to defeat before he allows himself to die by sunlight. It came to you that beings of divine-origin had been set free after centuries of slumber, these were beings that consume your kind Hamon is known to possibly eliminate these creatures.

All in all the events of part 2 constantly had you on the edge of your seat regarding Joseph's safety, you know how the boy tends to be. With Joseph rescuing Speedwagon from the Germans and being able to survive a pillar man, meeting with a Zeppelli, encountering more pillar men and promising them a battle, unknowingly reuniting with his mother, great stone of Aja, training Hamon, losing his Zepelli friend, the awaited duel with the pillar man, defeating the final pillar man after it had transformed to an ultimate being, presuming he is dead, holding a funeral for him, turns out he's alive and married... Tumultuous, to say the least.

It wasn't until it was over were you able to rest your weary heart. Through it all, you were beside Erina and Robert.

- With Joseph's marriage with Suzie, whom you have welcomed warmly into the family, had brought another member of the Joestars. A lovely little girl they named Holly, Erina and Jonathan's great granddaughter where you were always happy to greet upon her introduction.

"Oh Joseph she is beautiful, she looks like her mother," Erina holds the precious Holly in her arms. "Hello little Holly..."

- Having been inspired by Kars' ability to stand under the sun, he got to work with funding his company to scour sources in order to grant you the same ability. A stone mask with an artificial recreation of the Stone of Aja. It is not as powerful as the original, as its sole goal was to grant you immunity against the sunlight. Robert wanted nothing more for you to finally step out of the shadows and see the light once again.

At first you were nervous, waiting for the sun to rise where Erina was nothing but supportive as she held your hand in hers with Robert holding the other. You can only close your eyes once the clock strikes and dawn falls upon the residence. You can feel the warmth on your skin and you feared what once you open your eyes, you would see your skin catching on fire. A shuddering gasp from Erina and Robert had made you open your eyes to see them with tears brimming their eyes, her figure basked in daylight. Looking down, you see sun rays touching your skin again, a tear rolling from your eye. Erina and Robert embrace you out of joy, thanking.

Before you can wrap your arms around them you feel Joseph engulfing all three of you in his arms, even lifting you out of joy. As Elizabeth approached to see the scene up close, she was pulled in by Joseph.

- The day would come where you would lose the friends you love is inevitable and would sting the most.

Erina Joestar ate age 81 in 1950. You have only met him when you had to take care of your dear Jonathan after his first fight with Dio and you were fast friends through your mutual care of Jonathan. Since then you have been close, having been there for each other when one needs comfort and a shoulder to cry on, and to help each other in general. Always so kind and gentle, yet so fierce and strong that she is able to power through all the tragedies life has thrown at her direction.

Had given nothing but love to everyone around her; George, Elizabeth, Joseph, Robert, you. She stood as a mother figure to her students and had loved them like she would her own children. She died surrounded by loved ones and knowing that she had achieved all her goals in life without succumbing into the deep tragedy Dio had caused her. You were happy Jonathan had married her. You were glad to have met her.

Robert at age 89 in 1952. He was a dear friend, often offering the shirt off his back. There was no greater honour than being generous and kind that despite his rough upbringing, he manage to change for the better and help those who come from the rough parts he used to reside in, he never wanted the youths to grow up in such environments and fight to survive. He wanted to provide them education, opportunities for a bright future, a better upbringing. Heroic until the very end of time, as he will continue to help families even in his death.

He died surrounded by loved ones. His friends, family, and the families of those he had helped. You were glad Jonathan had a friend like him. You were glad to have met Robert.

- True to his word, the Speedwagon foundation have always been there for you. The one who had inherited the company was one of the scholars from the slum Robert had saved from the life of crime now runs the foundation and in his fierce loyalty to Speedwagon, in in turn, loyal to you. Fulfilling Robert's wish, you were provided the necessities from your blood bags, travel funds, but most importantly, a new identity.

You use your new identity to become a doctor once again, assisting the Speedwagon foundation in every medical endeavour, your very first work as a doctor under a new name providing help with the charity work to distribute needed vaccinations to in need, giving back to the Speedwagon foundation as much as you can buy helping them fulfill what Robert had intended to do even in death, to help others in need.

[roselyn-writing]

Moirvdonne series chapter 3

“7:15 A.M”

The shrill sound of the alarm clock pierced through the silence, jolting Eevie awake. As she reluctantly got out of bed, She made breakfast for herself and her husband. Then she wore a casual outfit before she is heading out.

“I’m going to the grocery store, do need anything?” She said.

“No thank you, just be safe darling!” He replied.

Eevie went to the grocery store and grabbed everything she needed. When she finished, she proceeded to the register to pay for her items. After the transaction, she loaded the groceries into the back of her car and decided to continue her shopping spree.

As she explored, she stumbled upon a gorgeous boutique that specialized in feminine clothing. Excitedly, she stepped inside. Eevie began searching for the specific type of clothes she desired and soon found two pairs of jeans along with a stylish blouse that caught her eye.

Curiosity piqued, she headed to the boutique's fitting room to try on her finds. The clothes looked stunning on her, and after ensuring they fit perfectly, she changed back into her attire.

Carrying her chosen items, Eevie made her way to the register to complete the purchase. The cashier promptly scanned all her items while Eevie prepared to pay. With her purse in hand, she retrieved the necessary money and handed it over. Once the transaction was completed, Eevie left the boutique, shopping bags in tow.

Returning to her car, Eevie retrieved her keys, settled into the driver's seat, and started the engine, ready to head home.

Eevie took the keys out of her Purse and proceeded to open the door of her house.

Once, she got inside the house, she hastily loaded all the groceries in the fridge and kitchen shelves.

“Phew.” She sighed, “What a long day,”

She goes to check on her baby girl,” How’s my Selviya?” She murmured.

She smiled once she saw baby Selviya sleeping peacefully in her crib. She awed in a low voice.

Eevie felt a little tired, so she went to fix herself a cup of tea, “Need some caffeine to help me get through the day,” she muttered to herself.

She goes to boil some water in the kettle. After the steam emitted from the kettle, she prepared a teacup, put the tea bag in the cup, and pour the hot water on it.

The aroma of the tea was pleasing to Eevie. So much so, that she takes a sip of her tea, she doesn’t want to down it all.

Eevie is a housewife, she enjoys doing house chores. Taking care of her garden and flowers.

She cares so much about her house, her being a house and her husband.

As the clock strikes 8 P.M. Her husband came after he finished his work. Derek came exhausted from work, he craves some rest and a delicious dinner

“How’s the work?” She asked him as she prepares the dinner.

“Good, as always,” he answered.

Eevie finished putting the dinner on the table, the dinner was mac & cheese with Greek salad.

Her husband loves her cooking and he is always amazed by it, as the housewife she is, she is a good cook.

“Enjoy dinner,” she uttered.

“Thanks, darling!” He replied as he smiled at her.

After eating dinner, Eevie washed the dishes. Then settle down to watch TV.

The rest of the day went by watching TV together and chatting with each other.

Then baby Selviya woke up. Her mother rushed to carry her and feed her.

Her mother made her a milk bottle and started to feed her.

“Here, here is the milk,” the mother whispered to her child in a gentle voice.

After feeding the baby, Eevie Holds her baby at shoulder level, positioning her head just above her shoulder. She gently rubbed her baby's back a few times, and baby Selviya burped and slept on her shoulder.

Eevie gently put her baby girl in the crib and proceeded to continue watching the TV with her husband.

At 11:00 P.M., The couple went to brush their teeth, do their night care routine, etc.

Then they head to their shared bedroom to sleep.

[little-pondhead]

Fenton Family on Vacation (part 3)

Original Post

Part One⬅️➡️Part Two

(This is kind of a filler cause I’m trying to get an AO3 account set up, but Elle fighting a rat just got stuck in my head and I couldn’t get it out.)

Lights come on in a studio. Two people sit behind a glass desk, expressions neutral. 

"Good evening, and welcome to C3TV. It's 6:45 p.m. central time on August 4th, 20XX. I'm Kimberly Anderson."

"And I'm Frank Meyers. For today's Fifteen Minutes of Heroes, we'll focus on one man in particular; The Flash."

A screen turns on behind the news anchors. 'Fifteen Minutes of Heroes' is written in bold letters. The screen cuts to a close-up picture of the Flash.

"That's right, Frank. Our city's protector is not often in the spotlight, so let's get down to business."

"Right you are, Kim. To start with, Captain Cold was spotted outside the Flash Museum earlier today. It is still unknown why he was there first, but Flash was quick on the scene and chased the rogue through the downtown shopping district."

A blurry photo of Captain Cold is shown.

"What stopped Flash from arresting him immediately?"

"Well, Kim, according to CCPD reports, a recent delivery of high-alloy austenitic stainless steel was stolen at a checkpoint before it could make its way to S.T.A.R. Labs. It's now known Captain Cold was the culprit and used the metal to produce new weapons. These new weapons gave both Flash and civilians alike a scare, as the rate at which they generate ice is astounding."

An image of S.T.A.R. Labs comes up. It switches to the silhouette of a crate with a question mark, and then a silent video appears. The video is of the recent destruction in the downtown area and captures crowds of people milling around. Some are cleaning up debris, and some are trying to evacuate their families and neighbors. Several emergency service trucks are lighting up the whole street. One man has a flamethrower and is trying to thaw out his car. 

"Yes, traffic was horrible on the way to work. This new ice has a particularly high melting point, so its removal is still ongoing. Flash was spotted chasing the captain but frequently had to sidetrack for quick evacuation. Captain Cold was shooting to hurt today. There was no regard for civilian safety or public property. It seemed like he wanted to cripple the city. A few neighboring counties will pitch in for relief efforts; more at eight."

Snippets of their fight all over the area are edited together. Pictures of the destruction show up.

"Reports say their path took them west through the district before making a sharp turn on Roanoke Parkway and doubling back to Central City Plaza. There, Flash cornered the rogue. You can see the two arguing through nearby store cameras, but no audio can be provided. Captain Cold is visibly angered and takes a hostage at one point. The hostage, one Lacey James, was under threat for less than a minute before the Flash stole her away and returned her to waiting police officers. Cold is upset by this and douses the whole plaza in a thick ice sheet."

A virtual map follows the path taken with a red line—the screen changes to an out-of-focus storefront video. Captain Cold has a blonde woman at gunpoint, but Flash disappears with the woman too fast for the cameras to follow. Flash returns a few seconds later. Captain Cold seems angered, and the cameras short out soon after. 

"Uh oh, we all know how hard it is to walk on ice. Captain Cold obviously wanted to slow down the Flash, but why?"

"We're still not sure, Kim. I mean, it's his thing. But does anyone know why villains do what they do?"

"You have a point, Frank. But that's not why we're here today."

"No, it is not. While the Flash did his best, bless his heart, a few civilians were stuck inside the plaza with the two supers. No deaths have been reported citywide, and only a single person has been admitted to the ICU due to a case of hypothermia. More about this young soul can be found on our website and the link to their family's GOFUNDME. But aside from that, one of the civilians managed to get an interesting part of the fight on video. None of the stores in the area had working cameras at this point, so let's look at the video now. Please be warned, viewers' discretion is advised."

The video opens showing the face of a young teen. The video is obviously from the point of view of their phone. The teen is swearing, and viewers at home can hear a long string of beeps. 

A voice from off-screen: "Yo! Are you getting this??"

The teen swears one last time, but the video's perspective is changed. The camera is peeking out into the plaza between a car tire and a chunk of ice. "[beep], it's so cold, man. It's [beep]ing August. I hope that kid is okay."

"It was nice of you to give that family your flannel."

"It was that or let that kid freeze, man. Now shut up. I'm tryin' to hear what they're saying!"

The two teens pipe down. The camera is adjusted a few times, but eventually, the audio is picked up. Flash can be heard arguing with Captain Cold, although the dialogue is spotty due to the range.

"-can't do that!"

"The-[beep]ing [beeeeeeep] upstairs--hospital-----"

"-new procedure-----s West--gone clean---"

"NEVER! THOSE---[beep] this, GG---home--too sick---"

"-can help! S.T.A.R. Labs---new meds--won't------"

Flash is cut off by a scream of frustration from Captain Cold. The rogue begins to point and shoot at Flash, who has to zoom out of the way. Viewers can tell there are many close calls, as Flash stumbles more than once due to the slick ice.

Suddenly, a swirling green portal appears and spits out a figure right into the Flash's path. A loud smack is heard when they hit the ground face-first. One teen behind the camera sucks in a sharp breath, and the other whispers, "Ouch, that had to hurt."  Flash has no room to stop and trips over the body.

"[BEEP]!" Flash face-plants and doesn't get back up. Captain Cold pauses, staring at the two on the ground. A loud groan is heard a second later, and the figure raises its head. The camera zooms in. 

The figure was a glowing little girl with white hair and unnaturally green eyes. Glowing green blobs circle her head like cartoon birds. Bits of asphalt are stuck to her face, drawing green blood, but her skin heals as viewers watch.

The girl seemed disoriented, staring blankly at Flash and then at Captain Cold. The teen holding the phone can be heard scooting closer. The video shakes violently for a few seconds, but now viewers can listen to the conversation more clearly. 

"Uh...hi?" Small animal noises are heard, and viewers realize it's coming from the blobs, whipping around faster than before. 

"Where the [BEEP] did you come from?"

Whispers of astonishment come from the teens as the girl pushes herself off the ground and into the air, visibly struggling to stay afloat. "Hey, watch your [beep]ing language, dude. Children are present."

Captain Cold spluttered. "Wha-??"

The girl ignored the villain and turned towards the Flash. She bends over him, placing two fingers on his neck, presumably to check his pulse. Viewers see the girl wearing a big, black backpack in the shape of a ghost. From the camera's distance, it was difficult to determine what else she was wearing, but one of the teens said, "That's a sick outfit. I love the boots. Big 'Prometheus' vibes."

A scoff. "Yeah, no. I'm thinking 'Star Wars,' for sure." 

An argument begins behind the camera, and the view tilts a bit since their attention is no longer on it. 

A thin whine draws back the attention of the teens and the audience. Captain Cold is pointing a gun at the girl, who has a bemused expression on her face. Over the sound of the weapon, their quiet conversation cannot be heard. 

(Later, a famous child psychologist would do a ten-minute interview for Beefood's new show, 'Cohabiting with Cryptids.' Analysis shows the child was actually terrified at Captain Cold's actions and more confused than she let on. Some comments point out that the girl attempted to put herself between the Flash and the rogue, proving that she hadn't meant the Flash any harm.)

Suddenly, the girl scoops up Flash into a fireman's carry and dodges an ice blast. The teen filming the event swears and drops their phone. Shuffling and more gunshots can be heard. 

"You gotta chill out, man!"

"Ah, [beep], the screen cracked-"

"What?!"

"I can't-"

"Maybe a little shock therapy will get your Christmas spirit going!"

The shooting pauses. "It's Aug-AAAAAUGH!"

A scream startles the teens. It's coming from Captain Cold, and viewers can tell he's in pain. 

The screen is still black. 

"What the [beep], what the [beep]-"

"Is that lightning??"

"She's electrocuting him. How-"

"It's pink!"

"That's not what you should be focusing on right now!"

"But it's PINK LIGHTNING."

"She is literally burning holes into his parka, what the [beep]."

"Do you think Flash can make pink lightning? Should I ask him?"

"I don't [beep]ing know! She's going to kill him!"

"No, she isn't; look!"

A quiet moment. Captain Cold has stopped screaming, but small groans can be heard instead. 

"She stopped, see?"

"How much electricity was that??"

"I dunno, but obviously not enough to kill him."

"You're very calm about this."

"Don't worry. I'll freak out later."

"Oh, Jesus-"

"Look!"

A clatter. "Sorry about that." The camera finally refocused, although it was shakier than before. The girl was hovering over the prone form of Captain Cold, still holding onto the Flash. Viewers could hear her voice tremble. "On the plus side, a few of your screws may have been knocked back into place from the electricity. Anyways, see you later, [beeeeep] Ice Prince!"

The camera swings around to face the second teen. Their eyes were lit up in fascination. "New life goal: Pull a Zarina from 'The Pirate Fairy' and figure out how to make pink lightning."

"Oh, my [beep], Lynne! Why-"

The video ends abruptly, and the news anchors fade back into view. 

"Well, that was...interesting." 

"I'd say so. We have seven minutes left; let's discuss the theories."

-----

Dani stared at the tv. A quick re-run of the video from Fifteen Minutes of Heroes was playing. It was well past ten now, but she'd managed to hole up in someone's party shack on top of some apartments. And while she refused to touch the poorly-hidden weed, Dani had no qualms about raiding the stash of (packaged) food and flipping on the old tube tv. She'd turned on the local news channel to learn more about this new world since wandering around for a few hours didn't tell her much. 

And she'd learned a lot. 

This was a world of superheroes. Dani didn't know how to feel about that. On the one hand, she thought it would be easier to care for herself. She wouldn't have to try as hard to hide her powers-hell, she was being featured on the news! And these people weren't discussing her imminent capture. No public warnings about reporting her, nothing about being a danger to society. These news reporters were doing their job, relaying the facts and throwing out theories about her identity and powers. Was she a super? A rookie? An alien? A meta? What was her name? The people on the screen flashed a phone number below and asked if anyone spotted her please call their hotline. Not to hunt her down but because she was a kid. A superpowered kid whom no one knew the identity of and seemed to be very much alone. And yeah, Dani knew there were people out there with malicious intentions. But the fact that she was on the news and not in a bad way was baffling. 

(On the other hand, Dani knew her dad. A world full of superheroes meant a world full of supervillains that normal humans couldn't fight back against. Dani hoped with all her core that he'd stay away from the fighting. His Obsession wasn't protecting people, thank the Ancients, or they might never find each other.) 

At the very least, Dani expected one or two comments about her 'horrible intentions' to hurt their city hero. Still, Flash himself came on in an interview earlier that night and said while he woke up in a really weird place, he did not have any injuries besides the ones he caused himself. Flash noted that "The kid even tried to make me comfortable. She made a cardboard nest for me to lay on and tried hiding me in a private location. Sure, that location was a dumpster, but it obviously worked because no one found me until I'd already woken up."

"In this picture, you're seen with a pair of-heh-handcuffs. Any idea why the girl might've attached you to that pipe?"

"If I had to hazard a guess, the kid is scared. I saw the footage. I know I got knocked out pretty quickly. But that girl did her best to defend me from my enemy and get me to safety. However, it's obvious that knocking out two men twice her size has her spooked. Those handcuffs were probably an attempt to restrain me so she could get a head start. Probably thought I was mad at her. She even left an apology note. But don't worry, Spooky. I'm not mad. Thank you for saving my hide, and I'm sorry I tripped over you."

Dani's eyes were glued to the screen. Those last words, Flash had addressed towards the camera. They were for her. But she told him her name, her human name. Why use Spooky? 

Fuck it. I'm too tired for this. 

-----

Whether she liked it or not, it was too easy for Elle to get used to life on the streets again. She'd done it before; stealing food, sleeping in alleys, squatting in abandoned buildings, always looking over her shoulder a second time.

She knew her family wasn't happy about her time on the streets-Danny especially. When they first separated, she could feel the pain from his core. He hated sending her away. But it was that or risk worse from the potential backlash. At least this time, she had an extra pair of eyes. Or five. 

Blob ghosts were a common thing, especially around Amity. The more ecto-contaminated you were, the more blob ghosts tended to hang around. They weren't the weakened souls of the dead but more like collections of intense emotions imprinted on ectoplasm. Elle usually got a whole hoard following her back home, but in this new universe, only five managed to find the strength to follow her. Elle thought it was only appropriate to claim them as Hers and give them names. 

So now, Noodle, Buffy, Preston, Shaniac, and Boogara were a part of her little fright. And as such, they became extremely handy in her city exploration. They were her scouts, her lookouts, her moral support. They could not, however, help out much when she was in a big fight, like yesterday. They just had to hide in her hair. 

But with the smaller enemies, they really came through. For example, she was having a nasty brawl with a particularly ugly rat over a breakfast sandwich at the moment, and her blob buddies were being a huge help. 

Yes, you heard right. 

Elle was hungry. She'd been hungry before, and it was nothing new. But the fight and panic attack yesterday took a lot out of her. She'd barely touched the food at that weed shack, too afraid it was laced with something. So after picking an alley and transforming back into a human, Elle started looking around for something to eat. Her search led her to a small café, where she used the last of her allowance to buy an egg and ham breakfast sandwich. Which she promptly dropped onto the ground after face-planting for the second time in the past twelve hours. She was close to another alley, and Elle could only watch with wide eyes as a giant rat darted out into the sunlight, snatched the corner of the wrapper, and dragged it away. Why'd she fall? Elle tripped over a chunk of ice from the café doorway. ICE. 

I should have kicked that man in the dick. Elle thought, scrambling up to chase after the rat. Her blob buddies led the way, harassing the rat as best they could to slow it down. They cornered it in a box. Buffy was chittering especially loud, leading the others. 

Elle knelt and reached in blindly, grasping for anything. One of her knees was bleeding, and bits of broken glass were getting into the cut. "Where are y-ouch! Motherfucker! Did you just bite me??" The rat screamed and bit her again. "Oh fuck no! Get your ass out here, you little-"

The rat ran out, still dragging the wrapped sandwich. Elle tried stomping on it but missed. Noodle was handing around the rat's neck like a rope, trying to restrain it. Shaniac and Boogara were tugging at the sandwich, and Elle managed to snatch it up a second before the rat escaped into a shoe. Without hesitating, Elle punted the shoe into the street like a football. 

She snorted in satisfaction when the shoe and its passenger were lost in the crowd. 

"I can't believe that just happened." Elle whirled around but didn't see anyone. "Up here!"

Above her head, watching the whole thing with an amused expression, was a woman sticking her head out of a window from the second floor. The woman had tight brown curls and an equally tight face that looked strained when she smiled. 

"You're that Spooky kid from the news, right?" The woman called. How did she-? Elle scrunched up her face. Right, blob ghosts. 

"No!" Yeah, that was believable. "Anyways, mind your own business!" She stalked out of the alley, hard-won sandwich in hand, and did her best to ignore the woman's stifled giggles she could still hear two blocks away. 

Okay, maybe staying as a ghost will be easier in this big new city.  

-----

@passivedecept @lehana37 @kobol1 @cat-in-a-fedora @starkcravingmad

[musicprincess1990]

I Know No Other Way

Chapter 13 || Read from the beginning

Jesus Christ, this was hard to finish. And it certainly wasn't helped by half of my family interrupting me numerous times throughout the day. Love my family, but man! JUST LET ME WRITE!!!

Anyways, the long overdue next chapter is here at last, though it is definitely a filler chapter at best. Thanks again for being patient with me, and here's your sneak peek:

~*~

The afternoon passed, mercifully, without further incident, though Sherlock’s vexation had not abated. He stormed the grounds as his mind waged war on itself, all but upended by the absolute fiasco his day had become. A scandal narrowly avoided, a wife he hardly recognized, and exile from both Baker Street and Hive Cottage—both of which he owned—and to cap it all off, the light drizzle of rain began falling in earnest. Were he a believer in signs or the supernatural, he might have thought the skies were mirroring his foul temper.

As the rain seeped through his greatcoat, he cursed aloud and turned back to Hive Cottage. Mrs Holmes would simply have to make do with his presence, as he had no desire to catch cold. Fortunately, he saw nothing of her as he entered the house, and for one blessed moment, all was right in the world.