Cw: food, trauma relating to war and ptsd. Biblical references and themes,agegap between Jerico (my oc) and Lucas.
Summary: Lucas meets up with his date, and soon much to his dismay they become entangled in their mission too. Later,they go rescue their friend and therapist, Desmond Wales.
->reblogs appreciated. Lmk if I missed anything
Lucas had just gotten out of the shower, he turns his neck to the side, passing a hand across his trapezius, Rolling his shoulder back. A sigh of relief escapes past his lips, then his eyes catch sight of himself on the mirror.
Tall and lanky yet muscly body,littered with scars and a happy trail across his chest down to where the hem of his pants cover it near the end of his hips.He scoffs at himself whispering --Good thing I never lost my looks-- to then put on his shirt and getting out of the bathroom. His eyes check the sun coming through the windows , its late morning from what he could gather.
--About time you came out!-- rosemary shouted from the Next room over-- I thought you might be late to your date!
--Fuck off its not a date!--Lucas yelled back grabbing his leather jacket from the clothing hook-- I gotta get going don't explode my house please?
--I cant promise anything!-- she yelled back.
He rolled his eyes and before he left he grabs his trusty boot Knife,hiding it between his boot and the hem of his pants,maybe it was a stretch but he could never be sure .
"My house" saying that felt..odd. its been so long since he lived in a proper home, somewhere of his own. Living in a van crammed with Gear was an experience but he missed having his own little corner of the world.
The Man walks through the park,admiring the Beauty of Elysium park. The name really did suit the place, it was fall which meant not too Many flowers were blooming, but the paths that littered the land were covered with leaves that made a nice crunching sound when stepped on.
Its oddly calm. Like the calm before the storm. "It's not a date, we are two people meeting up to get to know eachother better..." he thought nervously playing with his dogtags"Just that...yes. But what if they think it's a date?! What then? I guess I wouldn't mind it if it was a date but--" Lucas let out an exhasperated sigh, Rosemary would be laughing her ass off if she saw the state he was in.
By midday he reaches the entrance to the dinner, he leans on the wall beside the door as he waits for Jerico to arrive. He sighed fixing his curly hair now tied up, he could've braided it if he didn't spend so much time in the shower.
As the autum leaves fall, being blown away by the ocassional breeze, he catches sight of them. His heart skips a beat and he tries to fix his posture, stand a little taller, cross his arms over his chest, leaning his weight on his right leg.
--Jerico! -- He chirps with a smile-- hello,glad you could make it
--Lucas! Good to see you again-- They reply with a smile
--Did you eat anythin' before gettin' here?-- he asked.
--Not really,no
He nodded and pointed at the entrance to the dinner-- Want to...?
--Sure!
He opens the door for them and lets them go first. he stands behind them as a sort of guard dog, doing an overview of the place and Gently guiding them to a secluded booth, sitting there.
--You seem on edge, you okay?-- they ask taking off their green flannel.
--'m 'kay just...ah it's been a while since I've been in a crowded space like this-- He half lied taking off his jacket-- Bein' in the war left me alert to crowded noisy places
They nodded,understanding of his past trauma--I see, well... you looking out for me-- for us is appreciated
He smiled a little,cheeks bright red--ah its uhm..nothin'
--sooo-- they start trying to make conversation-- How you've been, anything interesting?
"If you knew" he thought to then answer-- Had some Friends over...we're planning a...trip
--Oh cool! Where?
--...we havent decided yet-- Lucas replied, looking away to the menus the waitress sets down on their table.
--I hope you have fun wherever youre going!--jerico Chirped opening her menu and checking the options.
--Thank you...N' how 'bout ya? Anythin' fun? Goin' on in yer life?
They think for a moment, tapping the menu-- Ah well, nothing much. Finished my midterm exam, we'll get the results after winterbreak, I was going to hang out with some Friends but it Fell through. Uni is a pain in the ass-- they reply, finally deciding on what to order.
--I never went to uni but I can imagine how tiring that must be-- He answered barely paying attention to his menu, too focused on how cute they looked while concentrated.
--It is but like...im happy to be studying something I like-- they admit-- it gets kinda boring though..hanging out with you helps lightening my week
Their eyes meet his and he looks away,cheeks darkening with blush-- ah uhm..well im glad I can be of help. Hey uh..I'm ready to order if ya are
--'m all good-- they confirm.
After ordering the waitress takes away their menus and leaves. Jerico sighs as anxiety creeps into their body, he made them nervous as shit. He was really good looking.
--I uh...Like your flannel-- Lucas comments-- really like the color, where'd ya get that?
They snap out of their trance at the sound of his voice--I uh...lemme think. -- they make a pause-- a thriftstore, its a bit oversized...I think it could fit you
--I think im too muscly for that thing-- He half joked.
--Hmmm maybe. But I think you'd rock it-- they compliment with Pink cheeks,might as well shoot their shot.
--Oh uh..thank you. I think you wear it better though-- he answers, trying to sound as smooth as possible as He offers them a warm smile.
Their cheeks go bright Pink, they stammer a --Thank you-- before avoiding his gaze.
--Hey why dontcha tell me more about what you're studying? Never went to uni so im curious-- he proposed leaning in a little.
--Oh uh sure!--They answer to then start talking about the Carreer they are pursuing.
The rest of the lunch seems to go quite alright, the conversation is fluid And quite animated, its enjoyable and quite warm. The food tasted great and everything went well...mostly.
Lucas noticed a few men coming and going,giving Him and his companion weird looks. Whispering amongs eachother as if hatching a plan.
He pays for their food, not hearing jerico's protest. But him ignoring them is not out of arrogance but rather out of worry, they had to get out of there. Fast.
The ex military Man escorts his companion out of the dinner, shielding them with his body by standing behind them, hands ready for action
--Hey uh you have anythin to do these Next few weeks?-- Lucas asked.
--Uh no...why?
--Remember that trip my Friends n' me are doin? Well I need someone to stay at my house,for security purposes. Could you? I uh could pay you?
--Uh sure! It's no Biggie. Is it just gonna be me though?
--Uhm no. A friend of mine is staying too. Shes alright. I actually gotta tell ya something more but not here-- he checked to see if the men from before were looking around, they were-- I know this is super weird but ya gotta trust me. Follow me
Seeing the seriousness of his tone, jerico took a chance and Walked with him, going through the more people filled areas of the park,hopefully losing the men that were after them.
--Lucas whats going on?-- they asked mildly scared-- why are men following us?
--You noticed 'em too?-- he asked dumbfodedly. They nodd-- ill tell you everything soon. While im here I wont let 'em hurt you,I promise
--I trust you-- its more like a warning than an answer, but he nodds.
Thankfully, they manage to lose the spies after them. Lucas sits jerico on a log and rubs their back soothingly-- Easy, breathe
--That was really scary-- they comment,voice shaky
--I know 'M sorry. Its all my fault-- he says pulling them in for a hug.
--How so? How could it be your fault?
Lucas sighs and looks away, he explains everything, from who he was and what he was looking for, what had happened to desmond too.
Jerico sinks against his chest a little, using his arms as a protective barrier between the outside world and them--I understand if youre angry at me..I didnt think they'd go to such extremes
--Its uhm...it was one talk I guess you couldnt really have imagined that that couldve caused this...-- they answer, his warmth soothing and comforting-- Men have been following me around too, so I guess it makes sense.. what should I do?
--Well..my Friends plan was to let you stay at my place until we get desmond out from where hes trapped...you'd be safe there -- he explained.
--well...that sounds like a good plan..-- they agree-- uh...lead the way
He helps them up, guiding them carefully Back to his cabin. The walk is quiet and tense,but theres an underlying sense of warmth, of safety. Its weird because even with the threat on their life Jerico seems to be mostly at ease, they look up at Lucas and the height difference is oddly endearing.
Their eyes settle on his serious expression, his eyes scanning for danger, some sort of fight or flight response or some sort of triggered trauma,of losing someone close to him because of his fault. But who he lost is unkown to jerico.
But,alas they reach the cabin. Oddly charming in its simplicity. After introducing Jerico to rosemary, Lucas accompanies the newest addition of their team to pick up some things from their house, returning to their HQ Unseen.
Rosemary looks at Lucas, smirking-- Hmm..so this is the person that has your cables in a bunch?
Lucas turns to his Friend, sighing in exhasperation,Jeri settling their things on the sofa-- Rosemary..
--Look. I like annoying you because youre my friend-- she starts,arms folding infront of her chest, pushing her friend with her hips-- but this is a chance to move on,take your shot
--Move on?--He asked,playing dumb.
--you know what I mean, move on start a life-- she explains as if to say "dont act dumb with me"-- get a lovely partner and a buncha dogs
His face goes dark red, Burning up-- Rose!-- he whines.
--consider it. You can still move on and make something else of your life-- she added-- Imma check on 'em N you go call the others okay? --She sees the look of concern of his friend. Rolling her eyes she adds-- 'M not gonna rat you out,cole. Go
--Fine. You better--He replied leaving to get the phone, Rosemary goes And check on Jerico. After making sure they were alright and settling in well, she goes and prepares the diluted version of agent rainbow with a shaky sigh. Tomorrow was the big day.
The Next day arrived way faster than anyone wouldve liked, but they could wait no longer.
Matresses are settled on the floor, everyone is already laying down, Rosemary giving them a vial with agent rainbow, and just as Lucas is about to lay down he hears
--Hey! Be careful. If something happens here Or-- jerico started, scared and concerned for the Man.
Lucas stops them while putting a hand on their shoulder, squeezing it gently-- I said that while I was here you'd be safe. Even if im somewhere else mentally that still applies. Rosemary can pull us out pretty quickly...ill protect you
They smile and hug him tight,he hugs back and presses a small kiss to the top of their head-- good luck
He smiled and winked a them-- Thanks, kiddo
While his Friends melted at the scene, Lucas lays down on the matress, Rosemary hands him the vial and whispers-- Ill Keep them safe..
--Thank you-- he whispers back, laying down.
--Alright everyone! It'll take a hot second to find desmond,my guess is that if you call for him he'll answer. Its not much but...its something--she explains-- Now drink up
Max sighed and raised his vial-- Bottoms up!
Everyone drinks the vials and As Lucas slips into unconciusness the last thing he sees is jerico looking at him worriedly, he gives them a small warm smile that his friend copies,hopefully it helped them feel more relieved.
Then, pitch black. For a moment ,at least. Lucas is the first one to reach for desmond, hearing the faint tune of a piano, and the rest follow the sound until its as loud as an orchestra,they see a door and then...
A blinding light comes right after, the contrast sudden and violent. The Group find themselves on a white road, the Grass framing it is alive and rich in its green coloration.
--Everyone's here?!--Lucas called out, turning behind him to see that all of the members of his troop were, effectively, with him. He count them and Yes,everyone was accounted for.
--Yep!--Answered Allen, looking around-- where are we
--Well theres a house over there-- Max pointed out behind Lucas and beyond where the road seemed to end-- if the docs anywhere it has to be there
--Hey, theres a tape recorder--Virginia added, kneeling down to press the play button, and then they hear it.
"Agent Rainbow, as I got to call him, has pulling at my mind in a battle...a battle that I lost...and now im trapped here" the recording ends there, but as the Group move and finds more of these tape players they listen to the recording within It.
"Time has lost all meaning, here in this...elysian field I somehow managed to make a house, its grand And ornate and not really something I would choose to live in..but its home"
"These walls feel like a prison some days...but its safe, I have all I May need and...Tonia is with me. Shes here to Keep me company, a guardian"
"I spend most of my days in my Office now, some things never change...but now that theres nothing much to do then...what theres left for me? Who am I now? A therapist? A savior? An Angel of lost hope...?"
But the final one is the most concerning,as they reach the entrance to the now large ornate and crisp white rococo mansion all they hear from the last tape is "This is my home now. I cannot leave...here is where I can serve my purpose...I'm a savior...even if theres no people to save"
The Gates Open on their own and it gives everyone a bad feeling,yet they push in. Until now nobody had uttered a Word,only exchanged worried or amused looks.
Lucas stares at the grand garden, Virginia and Allen look at the field of flowers. Max tenses up, everything was too calm.
--Damn It, of course-- The ex military Man growls-- a Maze...
Beyond the maze,That seemed huge from here, was their destination. For Max it was one of the first signs that there was another power at play here,he lets the troop know his thoughts and approaches Lucas saying-- I dont like this
--Me neither...we should stay together traversing through-- the other man stated, turning to Virginia and Allen.
--I agree-- the only woman of the Group added-- as pretty as this place Is, it gives me the heebie jeebies
Allen nodds-- we dont know how big this thing is, it could take us days to get past it
Then, Lucas noted something on the ground he kneels and traces the marks on the dirt with his hand they are old but still present foot prints. Dress shoes-- hey...what kinda shoes did the doc wear?--He asks.
--plain toe oxfords-- Virginia replied instantly, then as the men turn to her she shrugs-- Hey I have hobbies and fashion is one of them
--Well...this is a good landmark--Lucas added-- good looking out Virginia
She snorted-- Hey, dont let your friend back there let you know youre out here giving me compliments...they might get jealous -- even if Virginia was usually reserved, after spending enough time with the three men she got used to them...even considered them Friends. This was the first time in a while she let her humour shine through.
Lucas' cheeks go dark red as he stands up-- c'mon we gotta Keep moving --He tried to brush it off and appear stoic,and he failed miserably.
As the Group enters the Maze, Virginia adds--Sooooo whats the story with them?
--You wanna talk 'bout that?-- he protested.
--Im sorry do ya see anythin' better to do?-- Max answered. Lucas never took him for a nosy Nancy.
--we had one chat. N then I met them yesterday to explain everything, I paid for their lunch and thats that-- He replied.
--Hmmm I dont think so!--Allen chirped in with a playfull smile-- what was that hug and the whole "I promised you'll be safe while I was around" thing?
--Ya heard that?!-- Lucas asked looking at the floor as If he was keeping track of the footprints, but really he was looking down out of shame.
--Buddy, we all heard ya-- The ex truck driver answered a shit eating grin audible in his tone-- Ya were practically makin' heart eyes at 'em
Then, they hear noises. The leader of their troop raises his fist and they all stop-- Shit..the fuck is that?!-- the ex radioman asked under his breath. Staring at these dark purple/black entities made of some sort of ink, a purple light shinning where their eyes would be-- Hide!--The Group splits, Max and Lucas, Allen and Virginia. They dont hide too far away from eachother, but then theres a passing breeze and when it hits the back of the monster's head they turn back and see the Group.
There was two monsters that go after each of the Groups, Allen And Virginia run for dear life. They turn a corner and then another, they hide behind bushes and when they think they lost the inkblot it somehow finds them.
Allen pulls his companion down behind a Bush, both panting they look around as the monster runs past-- How are we supposed to get out of here?!-- she asked.
--The foot prints-- the ex lighthouse keeper whispers, pointing at the tracks-- But we need to distract that thing
Virginia spots a pebble nearby, she gathers its heavy enough it could make a pretty loud noise-- you thinking what im thinking?-- she asked.
--Yeah-- he agreed-- how good is your aim?
--Im...not as good as Lucas but...I know how to throw rocks decently enough--She answered and her friend looked at her weird, she rolls her eyes-- dont ask -- The pebble is thrown to the opposite direction they needed to go, it hits the ground ways away from them and the inkblot takes the bait, screeching and running towards the source.
The pair looks at eachother and fight off the Urge to run for dear life, it would make too much noise.
So,they walk silently, using the tracks as a guiding Point, the mansion growing bigger the closer they got. They could only hope Lucas and Max were okay.
And speaking of which, Lucas thought of himself as a patient Man, that is until he saw Max trying to fight one of the Monsters with his bare hands-- What are you doing, Idiot?!-- he yelled grabbing his companion by the back of the shirt and pulls him back as the monster swings at him
--What the fuck Man?!--Max yells-- I had it
--The hell ya did! Dont be a moron! Lets try to lose it!--The ex military Man adds ducking down to evade an attack--Cmon!
Both run losing themselves further into the maze, their enemy in hot pursuit. They run past bushes and sculptures of what seem to be biblically accurate angels...yet they seem familiar, the face particularly but they cant pinpoint what.
As they hide behind a bench within a clearing of the maze Max says--We should go and fight it!
--With what?!--Lucas protested-- If by some miracle a sniper rifle comes from the Sky i can hand you that thing on a silver platter but as you can see-- he wildly and angrily gestured at the whole place-- We are dead in the middle of a fancy ass rococo dreamland!
The ex truck driver sighed-- alright then,smartass, what do we do?!
--Lemme think...!--The other Man exclaimed rubbing his temples in exhasperation partially from the wild ideas of his companion and the stress of the whole situation.
Sun shone down on the clearing of the Maze,theres nothing he could use...unless.
Lucas checks the space between his boot and the end of his pants, his eyes go wide and he says-- well ill be...-- He pulls out his trusty boot Knife from his army days-- This...is our only chance--Apparently the Knife had gone in with him, he almost forgot about it since he didnt need to use it when he went out with jerico.
--You've got to be kiddin' me...--Max whispered with exhaustion and completely baffled. With resignation he adds-- what now...--both men look at eachother, as if considering a plethora of options-- unless...
--You thinking what im thinking?
The ex truck driver got a big grin on his face,rubbing his hands together--Time to Grab the bull by its horns!
Soon,the inkblot catches up to them, its non existent eyes land on Max who yells--Hey asshole! Get your inky ass over here! -- the monster takes Long and heavy steps towards him,trying to intimidate Him. It tilts its head to the side and reaches out for its target before it hears him say--Now!
Lucas comes out of the bushes, jamming the blade to the inkblot's chest, pulling back and slashing across its torso and neck.
The monster falls dead to the ground and dissolves--Holy shit --Max whispers.
--What...the...fuck...Man?--now it was Lucas' turn to sound tired and confused.
--Lets not think too much about that-- The other Man proposed-- Lets go get the rest..
Both find the way back to the path were the tracks were,noticing two more pairs that correlated with Allen's and Virginia's shoes. Finally they make it out of the maze and see their Friends sitting by a bench talking.
--What took you so long?--Allen asked with a shit eating grin.
Max and Lucas death glare Allen and both consider making him a human kebab for a split second--Good to know you two got off the hook easily enough...--The ex military Man growled putting his Knife back into its sheath in his boot.
The four of them look upon the grand mansion, intricate golden details adorning the walls alongside pillars and beautiful windows. The double Doors seem ominous but the faint piano playing from beyond them gave the Group hope.
--Ready?-- Lucas asked.
--Dont think so...--Max replied.
--Great...--the ex radioman replied sarcastically though internallty agreeing with his friend-- lets go in
They walk up to the Doors, grand and ornate in all their golden glory. Midday sun reflects a golden light onto the hand reaching for it to Open It.
The second sign that there was another power at play was that the door opened by itself. Its eerily fluid in its movements as if the house was inviting them in. Looking at eachother the Group steps into the house, a double set of stairs guiding them up to the second floor.
--oh my gooosh!!--Virginia cooed and awed at the house-- so ornate and sparkly! Allen look at all that gold! -- she was practically jumping in her place, she tries to walk further into the mansion and Lucas stops her with a jarred concerned look. She rolls her eyes and side hugs him singing-- They can beg and they can plead
But they can't see the light
'Cause the boy with the cold hard cash
Is always Mister Right!
Allen Is about to join in to the singing until the leader of their troop says-- Look kids not to rain on yalls parade but lets not get distracted
--ugh fiiiine-- Virginia complains folding her arms over her chest-- Fine I'd say follow the piano melody
They go quiet and listen a soft tune, they follow it up the stairs and down a grand Hall with paintings of what seems to be a biblicall battle..but the protagonists seem to be desmond and...some sort of multicolor mass--Could that be the rainbow chemical?--Allen asked and at the mention the house shakes for a moment,effectively scaring everyone.
--I don' think the house likes that name very much--lucas said with a jarred tone-- god,this place gives me the creeps... cmon gotta find the doc
As they walk, Max leans in and whispers in a ghastly tone--The houuuse is aliiiiiveee
Allen seems spooked by this, he takes a step towards Virginia who slaps Max over the head with her hand-- thats not funny idiot!
--Fine fine sorry!-- he apologized-- this house gon' eat us -- and with that he walks faster towards Lucas before his female companion slaps him again.
They reach the entrance to what they can only assume is the source of the noise. The four of them push the door Open and theyre met with a Giant Office space, long bookshelves filled with tomes and books, grand Windows that filter the light from outside, They look to the side and see the source of the music, an old piano being played by the air with...a Giant cat sleeping ontop of it?!.
--I wanna cuddle it--virginia and Allen whispershout. The Giant beast seems to pay them no mind.
Lucas tilts his head and says-- kinda looks like t-
A sudden heavy flap of wings interrupts him, the Group looks around beyond the large laberynth of bookshelves extending past an ornate beautiful desk. They see a shadow fly by and Grab books.
Finally, Max works up the courage to speak-- Doc?
The shadowed figure stops to look at them, making everyone shiver and tense. It flies up to the light flowing from the Windows, revealing itself. A Man with a Long robe and indigo scarf with rococó decor in gold, large white wings dripping with rainbow chemical, a crown that doubles as a Halo and various rings with eyes like ones you'd see in biblically accurate angels.
Lucas finally puts the pieces together. The being before him is the same from those sculptures back in the maze. His breath leaves his chest as the figure seems to scan them all,smiling And saying-- Lucas, Max,Allen,Virginia...it is so wonderfull to see you all again
Cw: alusions to ptsd, nightmares and divorce, Desmond is in a coma like state.
Summary: Desmond Wales lost his battle to Agent Rainbow, now trapped within his own mind. Luckily, his patients find a way to reach put to him and possibly bring him back to the waking world. Alusions to age gap (between Lucas and jerico)
->AU idea Belongs to @theallenshorefangirl I'm just merely writing it.
->"Jerico" is my self insert. They're genderfluid and in this fic they use they/them.
->Sorry for the weird formatting.
->reblogs appreciated.
Well, this was a pickle.
Milton-haven and Its residents have been ramsacked with crime,insecurity and violence. Amidst it all people took comfort in the smaller things in life, loved ones, Friends, and some even went to therapy.
The pickle in question was that the town's reisdent psicologist, Dr.Desmond Wales, was...out of comission. Well, that was one way to put it.
--Well? Have you guys thought of anything?-- Virginia asked softly, handing Allen a cup of tea-- here
Allen, who was sitting on the couch looks up at the rest of his companions, his attention diverted to the Virginia for a quick moment-- thanks-- he answered giving her a nervous smile before returning to the rest of his companions.
Rosemary sighs audibly, passing a hand through her forehead, stress settled deep within her mind. In the background they can hear the heart monitor noise coming from Lucas' bedroom. --if we can create a diluted solution of agent rainbow, we might have a chance at taking him back, but if we dont do it right theres a risk we either succumb to our shadow or we die
Max raised a brow,arms crossed over his chest-- Well isn't that wonderfull?. How the hell do we beat our "shadow" self?
--Well,we'll have to fight them. Not in a physical sense but rather....-- the scientist trails off trying to find the right word-- accept them? They are all we repress About ourselves.. it would be a very shocking first engagement. Thats the part that could kill us, besides the chemical melting our brain
--Well that doesn't sound appealing-- Virginia muttered and Allen couldnt help but chuckle a little.
At this, the only person in the room that has not yet spoken was Lucas, the owner of the cabin that they were all in. The ex military Man leans on the door frame, arms crossed and setting his weight on his right leg. Hes deathly silent.
--Lucas?-- Rosemary calls out-- whats up?
--I'm going in-- he simply replied-- Now I understand if y'all don't. Max has his family and the rest of ya have a life. I lost enough people in mine, and 'm not 'bout to lose 'nother one
Then, the room quietens. Theres a sense both dread and indecisiveness, the sound of the heart monitor is almost deafening its both a grim reminder of why they were all there and a sliver of hope that Desmond was still in the realm of the living.
Allen's eyes fall on his tea,dark as night yet sweet to the taste,Much like him, he looked intimidating and people didn't really like him much, but truthfully he was a sweet guy, he just wanted to help people-- I'm going too, he helped me a lot and..it wouldn't be right for me to not help him back.
Rosemary looked at Desmond and then Lucas-- seems fitting I go too, I was the one who brought back that thing from retirement. I gotta set things right.
Virginia was nervously picking at the hem of her sleeve, the purple material soft to the touch-- if theres anything I can do to help desmond then... I'm in
Max sighed, scratching the back of his neck-- well... the doc here has been a great help. I might need to call my daughter first
Lucas' face softened, he turns to Max and says-- ya don't gotta come with, ya have a little girl to take care of
The other Man just let out a somber huff of air through his nose-- without desmond I can't see 'er. Court mandated sessions and all...even if I changed therapists I doubt they'll understand me like the doc did...
--Well...it's settled then?-- Rosemary asked-- we're all going? -- she gets a Group nodd in response-- 'kay..I'll need some time to dilute the chemicals so maybe a couple of days
Then Allen perked up-- just one quick question...if we're all there... who stays here to look after us?
Lucas' lips purse, his fists tighten but then he relaxes his hands, shaking his head a little. Rosemary notices this and asks-- you have an idea Lucas?
--I...do-- the ex soldier replied-- there's this other patient of Desmond, young gal. I met 'em some weeks back I thought I was running late to an appointment with Desmond but turns out I wasn't, talked to them in the Hall..-- he sighed-- I just don't like the idea to rope them into this, they're young and I know what being pulled into things you dont understand can cause
--well, If its not them...-- Virginia trailed off looking at Rosemary-- you could guide us through the...what did you call it again? Collective unconcious?
--Yes-- the scientist answered-- but... I have to go-
--You can help from this side,you understand this thing better than any of us, you can pay your dues that way-- Lucas reassured.-- we'll need a voice to guide us, we can use radio wave signals to communicate
--That's actually a great idea-- she replied-- well...guess I'm staying..
--Not to be that guy...-- Max interjected-- but we should need a way to pull us all out in case something happens on this side
--If I could make your bodies process the diluted solution faster, you'll be able to come to conciousness...there might be side effects like..maybe you all hear eachother's voices in your own head-- rosemary explained-- wont be for long, just until the entirety of the solution is gone from your bodies
--So you're saying we would have telepathy?!-- Allen exclaimed and Virginia looked at him as if he was onto something.
The scientist chuckled at the kid-like joy Allen had displayed-- something like that
--Cool!-- the lighthouse keeper mutters with a smile.
--Well, Rosemary and I Will stay here and figure how to dilude the chemicals,you Guys should go get ready, give us a few days-- Lucas answered sitting up Straight and pushing himself off the door frame he was leaning on.
After a few moments each person within the cabin leave, Allen and Virgnia seem lost in a quiet yet energetic conversation, Max seems deep in thought.
Rosemary looks at the floor for a moment-- you know...we could use some back up
Lucas Turned to the scientist with mild anger on his face-- Rosemary...
--Listen. I'm not saying rope them into it. I'm saying let them check in on me every few days, bring groceries and stuff
The ex military stands besides the scientist,arms crossed-- and risk 'em being followed and endager our mission?
--you care about 'em, don't you? -- she turns to him with a brow raised.
--W-well I care about them as anyone would do-- he answered, voice stammering and eyes darting away
--Y'know what I mean, Cole
--It's none of yer bussiness-- He answered.
--if anyone from mayer saw you talking to them they might be in danger-- she Warned-- don't think this whole thing won't go unnoticed
--The hell do you expect me to tell 'em?! "Oh hey why dont you come stay at my cabin in the middle of the Woods,why? Oh the goverment is looking for you!"
--When you put it like that-- rosemary started, but then she sighed-- look I can call them and tell 'em I call on behalf of Desmond. The Office isn't a safe spot...in fact the only thing keeping us undercover is the tin Foil you set up and the curtains being drawn-- Then she took a moment to think-- Unless...how were they when talking to you? Did they lean in? Copy your body stance?
--uh..I guess? I noticed their voice go down a few pitches-- he answered-- why?
--that's great! Okay here's the thing. Call 'em,tell 'em you wanna meet and make 'em come here to the park -- she started,noticing the increasing flusteredness of her companion-- what?
Lucas scratched the back of his neck-- how do I put this? I don't know how to talk to people,I'm outta practice
--You're talking to me right now
--You know what I mean-- he huffed,scowling at the smirk the woman gives him-- don't look so smug
--So you do have a crush on 'em-- she smirked-- adorable
--You're the worst-- he complained,folding his arms over his chest.
--Look. Chicks dig a Man in uniform-- rosemary started-- what's the worst that could happen? They say no and that's the end of that
Lucas gives an "are you kidding me?" Look to the woman and answers--it's not that easy!
She stands up from sitting on the table and faces her companion--Trust me,Cole. You call em up, and say "Hey,I really enjoyed our talk the other day. can we meet at Elysium Park?" Its infalible, you're nice and honest and it's a place usually filled with people which means they know that there Will be people around,which makes it safe! Witnesses and all that
--And if they ask how I got their number?-- he asks.
--Phone books!
--Great,make me look like a creep why dont you?
Rosemary rolled her eyes-- fine. You can tell them Desmond gave you their number
--Doesn't that violate patient confidentiality?
--Seesh you're complicated! Just call 'em up! Go!-- she Gently pushed him towards the phone resting on a coffee table-- Check if their file are on that paper stack over there-- she pointed at one of the other sofas.
--This is unbelivable-- he growled with warm cheeks and a scowl.
--You'll thank me later!-- rosemary shouted as her companion left, Taking great enjoyment in the way Lucas stomps off towards the files grumbling curses.
Rumaging through the files he finally finds the one belonging Jerico, he sighs under his breath. After finding the number he closes the file a little too abruptly And quickly starts pressing the numbers on his phone.
From where he was sitting,Lucas could see the smug face rosemary was giving him. He finishes pressing the number and puts the speaker part of the phone against his trapezius mouthing-- Fuck off -- and then when she laughs he gives her the middle finger. A really mature interaction between two adults, as you can tell.
Finally, Jerico picks up. Their voice startles Lucas a little bit-- Uh, Hello?
--uhm Hi,it's Lucas the guy you met ar Dr.Wales' Office..
--Oh hey Lucas!-- Their tone was cheery and oddly energetic-- how are you?
--Oh uh- 'M alright. How about you?
--Tired but fine. Glad summer break is starting,university has been kicking my ass-- they reply.
--Yeah I bet. Hey lissen uh- I really enjoyed our talk the other day, can we meet up?-- he hears them squeal on the other side of the phone, he has to clear his throat as blush spreads across his cheeks. Good to know they were excited to see him too.
--Yes. Uh yes of course! Where'd you think we should meet up?
--Elysium park? On the entrance to the dinner?
--cool! Sure. What time?
--Does tomorrow twelve am work for you?-- he asked, looking at Rosemary whose just making kissy lips at him. He grabs a crumpled ball of paper and throws it at her, barely missing his target. Damn he had good aim.
--Yes. It does-- they answer-- One more thing though, How did you get house number?
His cheeks go dark red, he has to cough a little to play off just how flustered he was-- Ah well the doc gave it to me
On the other side of the line,Jerico had their brows raised. They humm as if to say "huh. Interesting" and then they answer-- alright then. See you tomorrow, take care!
--Y-You too, see ya
They hang up first, Lucas takes a quick moment to snap out of it. He clears his throat and settles the phone back to where it was previously.
--Sooo?--Rosemary asked peeking from behind the doorframe, Like a nosy younger sibling.
--I guess I'll be seein' 'em-- he replied looking away, arms folded over his chest and acting all tough and rough.
--Wonderfull!-- she squeals-- they grow up so fast
--aintcha s'pposed to be workin' or somethin'?! Dontcha have better things to do?!-- he exclaimed his flusteredness increasing.
--I'm waiting on some equipment to finish running a few formulas to dilute Agent Rainbow-- she replied nonchalantly,shrugging a little-- I'm just killing time
--I'm going out, 'M gonna practice my aim-- he grabs his jacket haphazardly thrown on the one person sofá and walks to the entrance to his cabin muttering-- so Next time I throw something at you I actually hit you square in the face -- he of course didn't mean it. He was trying to look all tough and manly, rosemary didn't buy in his threat.
Meanwhile, Max had just arrived at his house, muttering under his breath. The door of his house opens a little too roughly, he closes it with a slam and locks it. His jacket is thrown to the nearest chair and as he goes to the fridge he says-- weird chemicals, governent conspiracies...the hell did you got into now Nyaagard.
He takes out a beer and opens it hitting the underside of the bottlecap on the corner of the table-- Unbelivable...
Sitting down on his couch, he sighs audibly, he lands roughly against the cushioned surface. His feet propped up on the coffee table, he looks at the ceiling taking a swig from his drink.
Max's eyes dart to the phone Next to the TV. He had to at least try and call Madison, let her know he would be out,make sure his little girl was alright.
Another sigh falls past his lips yet again. Swirling his beer he takes another sip and stands up, leaving the bottle on the coffee table and picking up the phone
Soon he dials up the number of his ex-wife's home and he anxiously knocks on the wooden surface of the dresser where the phone and TV rested on.
A woman picks up,he knows the voice--Hello?
--Hey...-- He starts.
--Im hanging up
--No wait! Look, Can I just talk to Maddie? I gotta leave for a job soon and I just want to hear her voice
Theres a short but heavy silence that Is interrupted by his ex wife calling out to Madison. A smile appears on his face as he hears his daughter's excited steps up to the phone.
--Daddy!-- Madison exclaims.
--Hello sweetheart-- Max says softly, a kind of softness reserved just for his kid-- how are ya?
--'m fine! Oh I had this thing happen to me at school n'-- Max diligently hears his daughter go on a rant for a solid ten minutes, smiling tenderly.
When she finished he adds-- thats really interesting sweetie, Hey lissen, Daddy has to go away for a bit. I'm not sure when I'm comin' Back but.. I love ya sweetheart
--Love ya too daddy! Good luck!!
He chuckled and said his goodbyes to his kid, then his ex wife adds-- whatever you do,be carefull
--I Will, Keep her safe for me
--Will do
He hangs up and lets out a heavy sigh. Scratching the back of his neck, knocking on wood one last time before returning to the sofá and resume his drinking.
By sunfall Rosemary had the exact formula, she was nothing but efficient. She would spend the rest of the night up until she managed to dilute Agent Rainbow. Next morning Lucas would find Rosemary passed out on her desk.
As the sun rises and Lucas makes his way to the coffee machine, he barely got any sleep at night. Night terrors wouldn't leave him alone.
But, he had to focus on the good things. He was a step closer to saving desmond, and...he could see his crush before plunging into the uncertainty and almost certain death of his mission. Lucas decided to start by having breakfast and leaving a mug of coffee besides rosemary.
He pats her back shaking her a little-- Rose? Wake up. I made ya coffee
The scientist grumbles that she would wake up soon and he finished his own coffee, making his way to a duffel bag to Grab some of his clothes and walking up to the bathroom, he had to get ready for the day ahead
