#best Lab Casework

[suzukiblu]

Day twelve of fic NaNoWriMo, obligatory sugar daddy Tim/sugar baby Kon AU.

Tim waits until the next morning, after their latest Young Justice sleepover has both occurred and concluded, and catches Kon while Cissie is bullying Bart away from the pancake mix and taking over the kitchen for her and Cassie to make everyone breakfast. It’s their turn, which is for the best; last time was Kon and Suzie, and they’d absolutely wrecked the kitchen before finally confessing that Kon had never actually cooked before and Suzie didn’t know if she knew how to. 

Breakfast had been Pop-Tarts and it’d taken them two hours to clean up the kitchen. Tim had just decided not to ask questions, at that point. 

“I’ve got a summary of the intel you asked for,” Tim says, holding out his single-page “report” for Kon, tucked nice and neat into a manilla folder. Kon looks startled. 

“Huh?” he says, blinking down at the folder. 

“I looked into Tim Drake,” Tim clarifies. “Long story short, you’re in the clear. His grades are stable, his disciplinary record isn’t concerning, and his psychological profile falls within acceptable parameters. His mother passed away a couple years ago, but his father just got remarried and he and the stepmother aren’t involved in anything shady, there’s no other relatives or criminal associates on record, and the family business’s practices are only a little morally dubious, which in Gotham is practically sainthood, frankly. Maybe don’t accept any unsourced archeological finds from him if it comes up, but otherwise you should be good. Go ahead and make friends.” 

“Uh, right,” Kon says, a brief flash of embarrassment crossing his face as his ears redden. “Friends. Yeah. Uh–you seriously checked him out to Bat-standards that quick, though? Geez, man, you didn’t have to do that. I coulda waited a couple weeks.” 

“Just rearranged a little casework that wasn’t time-sensitive anyway,” Tim replies, repressing a wince. Maybe he should’ve padded the time a little more on this. He doesn’t want Kon to think he wasn’t taking his request seriously. “Also, he’s a civilian high school student with exactly two family members and a fairly small friend group. There weren’t a lot of rabbit holes to go down.” 

“I guess not,” Kon says, looking awkwardly at the folder for a moment before pushing it back towards him. “Uh. I don’t need to, like . . . read that or anything. If you say he’s good, I mean.” 

“You don’t?” Tim asks, a little mystified. Kon looks embarrassed again. 

“It’s weird enough asking for a background check on a dude who’s apparently just trying to be nice,” he says. “I’m not gonna read it if there’s nothing I actually need to know.” 

Tim blinks, still more mystified, though he’s not sure if it’s Kon turning down perfectly-presented intel on a stranger or Kon trusting his opinion enough to turn down that intel that’s doing it. 

“Okay,” he says. “If you’re sure.”

“Uh, yeah. You really didn’t have to rush it, though,” Kon says, still looking embarrassed; tucking a loose curl of hair behind his ear in incredibly distracting fashion that Tim has to struggle to not be distracted by with limited success. “Like–it’s cool of you, but I really could’ve waited a couple weeks. Like, he’s probably not gonna go full mask-off supervillain day one at the mall, you know?” 

“I had the time,” Tim says, still feeling a little odd. “And it’s better to know before you spend too much time around him anyway, isn’t it?” 

Also, better to know so Tim can progress on bribing Kon out of his shitty lab-life and into a cute little cul-de-sac somewhere. Or an apartment building. Or an apartment block. 

“I guess, yeah,” Kon says, his face inexplicably reddening. “Um. Yeah. Uh. Thanks, Rob.”

Then he zips off abruptly without another word, and Tim is left mildly bewlidered and looking at the empty space he was just standing in. 

“. . . you’re welcome,” he says after a moment, no less bewildered, and puts the report away. 

He doesn’t really get Kon as a person, sometimes, but at least this is another step forward on the plan. He still needs to talk it all out with him as Tim Drake and work him up to it, because even Kon’s very weird socialization clearly still thinks it’s kinda strange for somebody to just offer to rent an apartment for him out of the blue, but then again, maybe that’s just because he thought Tim might be a supervillain. Which Tim still isn’t, technically. He’s like, a proto-supervillain at best. And only when it comes to bank fraud and pre-planning, because if he’s learned anything from Bruce at all, it’s that being the most prepared person in a situation absolutely always pays off. 

Maybe he can get Kon to quit Cadmus completely, if he plays his cards right here. He’ll start with a place that Kon can commute from, or at least by pretending they’re looking for a place that Kon can commute from. Maybe Cadmus would actually fucking pay him more than a pittance and an expense account, then, and Kon could save up a little. Tim should look into what the other field agents get, actually, though chances are “free room and board” is probably on most of their paychecks too, since Cadmus more than likely made most of them too. 

Fucking shitty asshole cloning labs. 

Maybe Tim should actually bribe some lobbyists the next time clones’ rights come up in legislation. Or just as soon as he has Kon safe and settled and secure outside of Cadmus, whichever comes first. That would definitely be a good use of his trust fund. 

Or just all of Drake Industries’ profits for that quarter, depending on how effectively he can distract his dad for said quarter. 

Tim’s a reasonably resourceful person. He could work something out. 

Also, clones’ rights implies getting Cadmus potentially shut down or at least more closely monitored, and maybe conning Superman into paying back child support for being irresponsible with his DNA. An incredibly powerful alien specifically primed for the local environment absolutely should’ve known better than to not have something arranged in case of his death besides just letting someone bury him, of all things. Incredibly stupid idea on his part, frankly. Isn’t there an AI running the Fortress of Solitude, to say nothing of all the androids? He absolutely could’ve set up a failsafe to come collect his body and lock down the Fortress once it was inside. Not a perfect solution, obviously, but definitely a better one than “let Metropolis just do whatever they feel like”. 

Much better, in Tim’s opinion. 

Seriously. Kryptonians are basically invasive predators on Earth. Superman absolutely should’ve known better than to leave his own dead body lying around. Frankly, Tim’s disappointed in Bruce for that one. He really should’ve had a talk with Superman about that particular oversight before Kon even happened. Not that Tim’s complaining about Kon existing, but Kon is basically the best-case scenario they could’ve gotten out of that. What if somebody’d possessed Superman’s empty body? What if they’d stripped it for parts and made a whole army of Supermen? What if any fucking number of things had happened? 

There’d better be something in place now, is all Tim’s gonna say. 

. . . maybe he’ll set up a high-yield savings account for any potential future Kon 2.0’s, just in case Superman decides to be stupid again. Just make monthly deposits and let it all collect interest. Tim’s not ready to be a clone-dad, but he can get the groundwork going. 

Hell, maybe he’ll make a Kon 2.0 one day. 

. . . that is an insane person thought, Tim recognizes. And way farther down along the supervillain pipeline than he wants to be right now. 

Still, Kon’s a hybrid, so he’s probably infertile, right? Which means if he ever wants to have kids or anything, he’d need–

Oh god, Tim thinks, and immediately hides his bright red face behind his fake summary of his own life story. Okay. New thought processes. New thoughts. New . . . everything, at this point. New all-the-things. 

He’s sixteen, he reminds himself accusingly. There is absolutely nothing about the idea of Kon with a little Kryptonian-ish baby that should appeal to him at all at this stage in his life. 

Just, well, his inner future supervillain apparently has a thing for punk telekinetic DILFs, he guesses. 

Well, given the timeline he’s intending to go supervillain on–

If Tim ever meets a telepath, he thinks he should probably just quit, actually. Like, for good. There is no possible way it wouldn’t end in absolute mortification. 

Oh god, Dubbilex is a telepath, isn’t he. Tim is never going to be able to be in the same room with the man again without employing every possible meditation technique he knows, because otherwise his brain is just going to be screaming about what Kon looks like soaked in Kool-Aid with his hair slicked back. Or how he smirks when he’s flirting with a civilian stranger at a café. Or the mental image of him in a crop top and Daisy Dukes version of his superhero costume, ngh–

Tim can definitely just never be in the same room with Dubbilex again. Or Martian Manhunter. Or maybe just anyone. 

Dammit.

[loudlittleecho]

Too Late To Save Them: Frozen in Time Offshoot: What happened in Amity

Set after this prompt

What's happened in Amity after the explosion and Danny accident:

The town: Horrified. Vlad finds out about Maddie, was told about his godfather duties.

Alicia was headed to the town to meet Vlad, check on Danny, see if Danny really wants to go with this guy. (Has had a couple phone calls with Maddie about how Vlad was Danny's godfather, (Maddie was always vague about it), but had been considering switching it over to Alicia instead; though Jack didn't agree.) Danny is 14, and while not yet 16, a judge might allow Danny to pick.

When Alicia arrives the Fenton house is blocked off.

Police and strange men in all white suits around. A shaken caseworker walks over to her and - breaks down.

Alicia feels a horrible pit grow in her chest.

Where. Is. Her. Nephew.

She spots Vlad speaking to an officer. His suit is ruffled, hair unkempt. He looks like he hasn't slept in days.

Alicia only looks better because she took a sleeping aid the day before- she needed to be there for Danny.

The caseworker; Molly- eventually manages to say there had been an accident.

Alicia ignores everyone as she pushes her way into the house. There is someone standing at a staircase, asking her to go back out.

She barrels her way down the stairs and sees. . .

She had never seen her sisters lab in person.

Had never seen. . . That grotesque glowing void.

---

Vlad: depressed at Maddie's death. He's dismissive of Danny's accident. . . the boy probably ran off to grieve. Vlad's at a loss from the families demise.

Expects Danny to show up at some point.

The town demands the portal be shut down. To find Danny's remains. The GIW attempt to shut it off, but they're idiots.

A week goes by. As the mayor, Vlad has shut down many discussions about the stupid portal and the town upset with the GIW. Tired of it all, he goes to the Fenton house (that has a memorial set up on the steps) as a ghost, and turns off the portal.

The mayor resigns. The town believes it's because he was close to the family. (partially true). The GIW find the portal shut down. (they take the credit).

The house goes to Alicia. She donates most of the items. The tech stuff she refuses to sell to the GIW.

She has it destroyed instead. (She can't bear to destroy her sisters notes though. She sends the notes to Vlad. He was Jacks best friend from college, he can deal with it.)

No one buys the house. Eventually she has the house demolished and turns the land into a community garden.

---

A few years go by.

The Manson family take over maintenance of the garden in honor of their daughter. Alicia let's them. (They hire an overseer: they do try the whole “gardening thing”, but it isn’t for them. It was Samantha’s) Honestly the garden does incredibly well. Anyone can ‘rent’ a plot (essentially just stick your name on a stick in an empty plot and it’s yours). Many plots are ‘take what you need’, in honor of the ultra-recyclo-vegetarian. 

With the portal destroyed the ghosts don’t bother the town as often. Red Huntress isn’t seen as often. Valerie graduates high school and travels, at first as a ghost hunter, but with age she now realizes that ghosts are. . . Complex. She doesn’t exactly ‘join’ the Justice League, but does work with other minor heroes occasionally.

The Foley's move. Everywhere they walk in Amity they are reminded of their son. They can't handle the sorrowful looks of passerby.

Casper High has invested in programs to support teen mental heath. Most of the town doesn't mind their taxes going up to assist with the extra funding.

The faculty start and continue a scholarship: The Lancer Education Scholarship, awarded once a year to a graduating student who planned to go to college to become a teacher.

The town moves on. 

[zhlabfurniture]

Best Laboratory Furniture Brands to Buy in 2025

Choosing the right laboratory furniture can significantly impact the functionality and efficiency of your workspace. With countless options available, knowing which brands stand out for quality and innovation is crucial. This guide highlights the best laboratory furniture brands to consider in 2025.

Why Invest in Quality Laboratory Furniture?

Investing in reliable laboratory furniture ensures safety, durability, and productivity. Let’s explore the benefits of choosing top brands.

Enhanced Durability

Long-Lasting Materials

High-Quality Construction: Resists wear and tear from daily use.

Chemical Resistance: Withstands harsh substances without damage.

Reduced Maintenance

Low Upkeep Costs: Quality materials require minimal repairs.

Longevity: Fewer replacements save money over time.

Improved Efficiency

Customizable Designs

Tailored Solutions: Adapt furniture to meet specific needs.

Modular Options: Expand or reconfigure as necessary.

Enhanced Ergonomics

Adjustable Features: Improve comfort and reduce strain.

Optimized Workflow: Create an organized and accessible setup.

Top Laboratory Furniture Brands to Watch in 2025

Brand: Labconco Introduction: Labconco Corporation specializes in providing high-performance laboratory equipment and furniture to meet diverse scientific needs. Location: Kansas City, Missouri, USA Website: www.labconco.com Main Products: Fume hoods, lab benches, glassware washers, and biosafety cabinets. Advantages: High-quality craftsmanship. Strong focus on safety and performance standards.

Brand: Durcon Introduction: Durcon is known for its epoxy resin work surfaces, which provide unparalleled durability and chemical resistance. Location: Taylor, Texas, USA Website: www.durcon.com Main Products: Epoxy resin countertops, sinks, and backsplash systems. Advantages: Industry leader in epoxy resin technology. Offers highly durable and low-maintenance solutions.

Brand: Waldner Introduction: Waldner is a European market leader specializing in laboratory furniture and modular laboratory systems. Location: Wangen im Allgäu, Germany Website: www.waldner.de Main Products: Laboratory furniture, fume cupboards, and modular lab solutions. Advantages: Exceptional modular designs. Renowned for precision engineering and innovative features.

Brand: Fisher Hamilton Introduction: Fisher Hamilton provides comprehensive lab furniture solutions, focusing on durability and adaptability. Location: Two Rivers, Wisconsin, USA Website: www.fisherhamilton.com Main Products: Lab casework, fume hoods, and technical furniture. Advantages: Longstanding reputation for reliability. Customizable solutions for various laboratory needs.

Brand: Mott Manufacturing Introduction: Mott Manufacturing delivers premium laboratory furniture and fume hoods with a focus on customization and quality. Location: Brantford, Ontario, Canada Website: www.mott.ca Main Products: Lab casework, fume hoods, workbenches, and custom lab furniture. Advantages: Highly customizable solutions. Environmentally sustainable practices.

Brand: Haldeman Homme, Inc. Introduction: Haldeman Homme provides turnkey laboratory furniture and equipment solutions for diverse scientific applications. Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA Website: www.haldemanhomme.com Main Products: Lab casework, fume hoods, and modular lab furniture. Advantages: Comprehensive project support. Strong emphasis on quality and design.

Brand: Kottermann Introduction: Kottermann specializes in fully modular laboratory furniture and fume cupboards for modern research environments. Location: Uetze, Germany Website: www.kottermann.com Main Products: Modular lab furniture, fume hoods, and specialized lab systems. Advantages: Focus on modularity and sustainability. Renowned for German engineering excellence.

Brand: Steelcase Introduction: Steelcase designs innovative and ergonomic laboratory furniture solutions, blending function and aesthetics. Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA Website: www.steelcase.com Main Products: Workstations, storage systems, and ergonomic furniture. Advantages: Strong emphasis on design and ergonomics. Wide range of customizable options.

Brand: NuAire Introduction: NuAire specializes in laboratory furniture and biosafety cabinets that meet stringent safety and quality standards. Location: Plymouth, Minnesota, USA Website: www.nuaire.com Main Products: Biosafety cabinets, lab benches, and laminar airflow systems. Advantages: Industry leader in biosafety solutions. Strong focus on innovation and reliability.

Brand: Kewaunee Introduction: Kewaunee Scientific Corporation is a global leader in the design, manufacture, and installation of laboratory, healthcare, and technical furniture products. Location: Statesville, North Carolina, USA Website: www.kewaunee.com Main Products: Lab casework, fume hoods, work surfaces, and technical furniture. Advantages: Trusted by professionals worldwide. Uses eco-friendly manufacturing processes.

How to Choose the Best Brand for Your Lab

Selecting the right brand depends on your specific requirements and budget. Consider the following factors.

Evaluate Your Needs

Type of Work

Chemical Experiments: Prioritize chemical-resistant surfaces.

Biological Research: Look for hygienic and easy-to-clean materials.

Space Constraints

Compact Labs: Opt for modular and space-saving designs.

Large Facilities: Consider customizable and scalable furniture.

Compare Costs and Features

Budget Considerations

Value for Money: Balance affordability with quality.

Bulk Discounts: Save more when outfitting an entire lab.

Additional Features

Integrated Utilities: Choose furniture with built-in power options.

Warranty Coverage: Ensure long-term protection for your investment.

Trends in Laboratory Furniture for 2025

Staying updated on emerging trends helps in making informed decisions. Here’s what’s popular this year.

Sustainability

Eco-Friendly Materials

Recycled Components: Reduce environmental impact.

Low VOC Finishes: Improve indoor air quality.

Energy Efficiency

Smart Lighting Integration: Minimizes energy consumption.

Renewable Manufacturing: Supports sustainable practices.

Technology Integration

Smart Features

IoT Connectivity: Syncs with lab equipment for streamlined operations.

Digital Displays: Offers real-time monitoring of experiments.

Advanced Safety

Fireproof Materials: Adds extra protection for sensitive experiments.

Anti-Microbial Surfaces: Reduces contamination risks.

Conclusion

Choosing the right laboratory furniture brand ensures a safe, efficient, and productive workspace. Brands like XYZ Labs, LabTech Pro, and Apex Scientific offer innovative solutions for every need. Evaluate your requirements, compare features, and consider trends to make the best decision for your lab in 2025.

ZH LAB is the largest laboratory furniture manufacturer in Guangzhou, China, with a 20,000m² production center and over 10 years of industry experience. We specialize in delivering high-precision, expertly designed lab tables and furniture tailored to meet your needs.

✅ Precision & Expertise – Our team ensures every piece is crafted for durability and functionality. ✅ Advanced Manufacturing – Equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, we guarantee efficiency and consistency in production. ✅ ISO-Certified Quality – We adhere to the highest industry standards, ensuring superior quality control.

Choose ZH LAB for reliable, high-quality, and expertly crafted lab furniture. Contact us today to transform your laboratory with the best solutions!

[kewaunee]

How to Find the Best Laboratory Furniture Supplier for Your Needs

In the world of modern laboratories, the importance of quality laboratory furniture cannot be overstated. Whether you are setting up a new laboratory or renovating an existing one, selecting the right laboratory furniture is crucial for creating a functional and efficient workspace. Kewaunee, a leading laboratory furniture supplier, is here to guide you on how to find the best laboratory furniture for your specific needs.

For lab furniture you want the best, and that's where Kewaunee comes into play. They specialize in providing high-quality Lab Furniture, including Modular Laboratory Furniture, to meet the diverse needs of research facilities, educational institutions, and healthcare organizations.

Key Tips for Finding the Best Laboratory Furniture Supplier:

Quality Assurance: The quality of laboratory furniture directly affects the safety and efficiency of your lab. Kewaunee has a long-standing reputation for providing top-quality furniture that complies with industry standards and regulations.

Customization: Laboratories have unique requirements. Kewaunee offers customizable solutions to tailor the furniture to your specific needs, ensuring that your lab space is optimized for your work.

Budget-Friendly Options: Finding the best laboratory furniture doesn't have to break the bank. Kewaunee offers a range of cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality.

Exceptional Service: Beyond just supplying furniture, Kewaunee offers exceptional customer service, including professional design consultation and installation services, to ensure that you make the most of your lab space.

Sustainability: Kewaunee is committed to environmental sustainability and provides eco-friendly laboratory furniture options. Their modular laboratory furniture is designed for longevity and can be easily reconfigured, reducing waste and promoting a green lab environment.

Kewaunee has been a trusted laboratory furniture supplier for over a century. Their commitment to excellence and innovation has made them a preferred choice for laboratories worldwide. They offer a wide range of laboratory furniture products, from lab benches and casework to fume hoods and storage solutions, all designed to meet the unique needs of different labs.

If you are looking for Lab Furniture that combines quality, customization, and sustainability, Kewaunee is your answer. Visit their website at https://www.kewaunee.in/laboratory-furniture.php to explore their comprehensive range of laboratory furniture solutions and learn more about how they can assist you in creating a functional and efficient laboratory environment.

About Kewaunee:

Kewaunee is a leading laboratory furniture supplier with a rich history dating back over a century. They specialize in providing high-quality laboratory furniture solutions, including Modular Laboratory Furniture, designed to meet the diverse needs of laboratories across various industries. Their commitment to quality, customization, and sustainability has made them a trusted choice for laboratories worldwide.

[aiimsdiagnostic]

How to Select the Best Diagnostic Centre in Jaipur?

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[omnilabsolutions]

OMNI Lab Solutions provide best Lab Casework at a low budget

Laboratory casework is all the cupboards that your laboratory consists of, and the casework is an essential part of each lab. To have a functional lab, you need to have the proper cabinets to store the equipment and conduct your work. OMNI Lab Solutions provide the best quality Lab Casework at an affordable price. If you want casework, then don't be delayed in contact at +16195796664, or visit our website: omnilabsolutions.com for more.  

[missmentelle]

How do I know if I'm burnt out and what are signs of being burnt out? In relation to both university and work?

Unfortunately, burnout is a very common problem among both university students and people in high-stress jobs. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the term, “burnout” is effectively where people reach a breaking point after being in a high-stress occupation (like a demanding academic program or a high-pressure career) for too long. Being “burnt out” is not an official diagnosis, and you won’t find it in the ICD-11 or the DSM-V. But it’s something that an increasing number of people are experiencing every year.

Not everyone is at equal risk of experiencing burnout - many students and workers never really deal with this. Factors that put you at high risk of burnout include:

Having poor work-life balance. If you spend huge portions of your time working - working through weekends, doing tons of overtime, working late, not taking vacation, working through lunch - you are at high risk of burnout. Humans need rest, relaxation, hobbies and time with friends, and when you sacrifice those things for work, it will eventually take a toll.

Having very little control over your day-to-day tasks. No one has perfect control over their daily work tasks - not even the self-employed - but having some element of control is important. If you have a say in things like when to schedule meetings, when to book client appointments and which task you are going to work on when, you have a lower risk of burnout than someone whose tasks tend to just be dictated to them. 

Having perfectionist traits or holding yourself to very high standards. People who experience burnout tend to be overachievers. They constantly try to go above and beyond because they put immense pressure on themselves to do their best work at all times. If you’re the kind of person who beats yourself up over getting an A- instead of an A and makes a point to be the last one out of the office every day, you are at risk of burnout. 

Having a dysfunctional work or school environment. Is your workplace plagued with bullies and office gossip? Do your lab members take pleasure in ripping each other’s research and writing to shreds, without really being constructive about it? Does your boss take their bad moods out on the rest of the office, even when you haven’t done anything wrong? A dysfunctional workplace creates burned-out employees.

Having unclear instructions or directions. It is extremely difficult to be in a work environment where you are expected to do be productive, but you aren’t given clear expectations, a clear list of tasks or instructions for how those tasks should actually be performed. It leaves you constantly feeling like your work isn’t good enough and isn’t done properly, without actually giving you a route to improve; you often end up working twice as hard to get half as much done, which is a recipe for burnout. 

Working in a helping profession. Nurses, social workers, therapists, paramedics, psychologists, caregivers and caseworkers have some of the highest burnout rates of any profession. These jobs often combine long hours and low pay with incredibly stressful work environments, and burnout is a huge problem. 

Burnout is more than just feeling tired or bored of what you do. It’s a state of complete and total exhaustion. Putting more energy into your job isn’t possible when you reach that point - you have nothing left to give. “Burnout” isn’t an official diagnosis, but it is a fitting description - trying to push through burnout is like trying to re-light a candle that has already burned all the way down to the bottom. It’s just not going to happen. 

Some signs that you’ve reached the point of burnout include:

Your performance is suffering. You can’t keep going full steam ahead when you’re running on fumes. When you’re burnt out, your work performance will one of the first things that starts to slip - you may find that you are missing deadlines, forgetting things, half-assing tasks and making careless mistakes.  

You constantly feel drained. Burnout is a perpetual state of exhaustion. You’ll start to feel like you just don’t have the energy to do everything that you’re supposed to do. You’ll find that you feel tired all the time, regardless of your sleeping habits, and that just forcing yourself to do the bare minimum leaves you feeling totally depleted and unable to do much else. 

You feel disconnected and cynical toward your work. Even if you once enjoyed your work or felt passionate about it, when you’re burnt out, you become disillusioned with what you do. You may find that you’re cynical about your work, or just so apathetic that you can’t bring yourself to care about it anymore, even when you accomplish things that once mattered to you. 

You can’t concentrate. Burnout can make it difficult - if not impossible - for even the most dedicated person to focus on their tasks. You might find that you spend a lot of time just sitting in front of your computer, unable to even start tasks because you can’t focus well enough to begin something. 

You have become irritable and short-tempered. People who are burnt out have a tendency to become impatient with the people around them. When you’re running on empty, you have no energy left for social interactions. You might find that you’re snapping at coworkers or getting visibly frustrated with clients if you work in a helping profession. 

You feel anxious. Burnout is often accompanied by feelings of indistinct dread that you just can’t seem to shake. The fear and anxiety is often tied to work, and can be completely overwhelming. 

You can’t sleep. Ironically, people with burnout often have a hard time sleeping. Their minds race all night, and they find that they cannot settle down or get comfortable enough to drift off. If you can sleep, you may find that you are only able to sleep in short bursts and cannot sleep through a full night. 

Your eating habits have changed. Some people experiencing burnout find that they lose their appetites. Others find that they begin to comfort themselves with food. Significant changes in appetite and food intake can signal a serious problem. 

You feel physically ill. Being under high amounts of stress for long periods of time can destroy your health - you might find that you have a lot of symptoms with no direct physical cause, like headaches, stomach pain, nausea and body aches. You might also find that you get sick more often and get more infections as the stress wears down your immune system. 

You feel like you have to drag yourself through the day. Even if you once enjoyed your job or your school, you might start to feel like even showing up is a huge chore, and dread having to go in. You might find that it takes all of your energy to even make it through the front door each day. 

The good news is that burnout is not a permanent state; there are things you can do to recover. However, recovering from burnout is not necessarily easy - this is not something you can quick-fix with a self-help book, and you may need to make significant lifestyle changes. Some things you can do to fix or prevent burnout include:

Set firm boundaries. If possible, stop taking work home. Stop signing up for extra shifts and overtime every time it’s available. Don’t volunteer to organize every single office party and baby shower. Stop answering work emails after 5pm. Don’t check your email on the weekends. Don’t respond to emails on vacation. Set firm boundaries between “work time” and “me time” - especially if you work from home, where it’s easier for work and life to bleed together. 

Use every minute of your paid time off. A lot of people just don’t use up all their PTO every year because they’re worried they’re letting the company down by taking vacation. Stop that. If you have vacation days, use them. Use your sick time too - if you don’t get sick that often, use them as mental health days. If you’re a student, ask professors for extensions when you’re sick - more and more professors are getting on board with cutting students some slack for life events. 

Unplug from productivity culture. Our culture has a pathological obsession with productivity, and it’s killing us. We consume books and blogs and podcasts about how to squeeze as much productivity out of ourselves as possible. It has to stop. Unsubscribe from this kind of content. You don’t need to put more pressure on yourself to optimize and monetize every second of your day - it’s not healthy. 

Seek support. Talk to a therapist, a doctor or a friend. Get professional help or just find people you can vent to. Try to form friendships with some of your coworkers or fellow students, especially if you work in the helping professions - they know better than anyone what you are going through. 

Prioritize your physical health. When you neglect your physical health, you are more likely to burn out - you run out of fuel faster when you have less in the tank to begin with. Prioritize eating healthy meals and getting all the nutrients you need. Make a habit of exercising. Practice good sleep hygiene and try to improve your sleep. 

Talk to your supervisor, advisor or boss. Are there things about your specific work or school environment that could be improved for you? Could you be transferred to a new team? Do your roles and responsibilities need to be clarified so you know exactly what is expected of you? Do you need additional training to do your job well? Are you dealing with harassment that could be reported to HR? See what can be fixed. 

Consider a change. Sometimes you just need a change of pace after a while. Many social workers, for instance, eventually leave the profession - a lot of people simply have a lifetime limit on how long they can do that kind of work before they need to switch to something that doesn’t involve human horror every day. If burnout is a consistent problem, it might be time to think about taking a leave of absence, changing to a different role, or switching careers altogether. 

Hope this answers your question! MM

[sagamemes]

the sheridan tapes  📼  part two.   here and under the cut, you can find over 130 lines of dialogue from the horror podcast the sheridan tapes, specifically from episodes four to six, edited for roleplay purposes. some of these focus heavily on survival, war, science, and spooky stuff, but a lot can be used by anyone.  tw:  war, unreality, a mention of cannibalism, implications of manic behaviour.

❝  god, i hate snowstorms like this. not just getting caught in them, but the storms themselves. it feels like the earth’s trying to bury me alive every time it locks in like this. like nature’s rightly pissed off at all of us and doing its level best to crush us to death.  ❞

❝  that’s what yom kippur means:  the day of atonement.  ❞

❝  that wasn’t the first time i’ve caught him in my office, going through my stuff.  ❞

❝  normally i’d be annoyed at someone calling me young lady.  ❞

❝  thank you… you are so warm… thank you for letting me in.  ❞

❝  suddenly, everything fell into place. i made more progress than i had in about half a year.  ❞

❝  the thing i remember most was catching disapproving glances from my father every time i went to the library.  ❞

❝  why does time only run forward?  why does cause need to precede effect?  ❞

❝  no one knows if they can trust me with casework or not.  ❞

❝  i didn’t say i was interested.  ❞

❝  [he/i] was taken off duty and sent for psychiatric evaluation the next day.  ❞

❝  coffee. i was making coffee.  ❞

❝  i didn't mean to get stuck out here.  ❞

❝  that just goes to show how small humans really are in the grand scheme of things:  take away our tools and our toys and our technology, and we’re still just as vulnerable as we ever were.  ❞

❝  she was good at that:  making you feel like you were safe, like you could open up to her.  ❞

❝  i’m just going to cover that one up. no harm in keeping it out of sight for the moment.  ❞

❝  maybe there was someone in the stairs.  ❞

❝  i think i did the lion’s share of the talking, which almost never happens.  ❞

❝  i couldn’t get to sleep... i figured i’d get a head start today.  ❞

❝  i’m afraid i don’t have all of the details of your involvement with the… tragic events in [place]. and i don’t think i’m the only one.  ❞

❝  i’m still not sure i understand the whole tradition.  ❞

❝  whatever it is, it’s chasing me. i can hear it’s footsteps in the snow, i can hear it—  ❞

❝  when you work nights here, the less you really think about them, the better.  ❞

❝  honestly, i just can’t get it out of my head.  ❞

❝  snow is one of nature’s simplest and most effective ways of killing you dead if you aren’t prepared for it.  ❞

❝  i wish you’d tell me what you’re doing here. i could lose my job if anything gets broken or if you end up getting hurt in there…  ❞

❝  would you say you… considered her a friend?  ❞

❝  would you mind saying your name again?  for the recording?  ❞

❝  if that was true, then there was something—and as a scientist, i hate to say this—supernatural going on in that lab.  ❞

❝  most of them didn’t make it. a lot of them died afraid and alone, too.  ❞

❝  i know you don’t like listening to these things, so i just wanted to help you out with…  ❞

❝  if i could sleep, then trust me, i would.  ❞

❝  i’m guessing the new owners are trying to make this place seem less creepy than it already is.  ❞

❝  my schooling was expensive and unremarkable.  ❞

❝  a lot of them died afraid and alone, too:  ideal conditions for the making of poltergeists, in my experience.  ❞

❝  look, i’m sorry, but this really isn’t a good time for anything, so if you wouldn’t mind…  ❞

❝  basically, i was picturing a slightly creepier morticia addams. i couldn’t have been more wrong.  ❞

❝  now i have to deal with [name]’s aspirations to write drama..  ❞

❝  i promise i won’t get you sacked.  ❞

❝  i’ve never been very religious, but for some reason… it made me think of hell.  ❞

❝  i think it may have been a thank you.  ❞

❝  i’m working the graveyard shift and i noticed the lights were on.  ❞

❝  i shouldn’t be here. no one asked me to come in this early.  ❞

❝  everyone around here looks at me like i’m some kind of leper.  ❞

❝  i had to go home for a few hours. i’m already on thin ice around here, and i didn’t want to get in more trouble for screaming obscenities up and down the wall.  ❞

❝  it was… darkness. no, that doesn’t do it credit, the whole place was dark. this was just... void.  ❞

❝  if i’d seen her anywhere else, i’d think she was an athlete or a backpacker.  ❞

❝  better scientists than me have been bashing their heads into that particular wall since 1927.  ❞

❝  i just want you to know that… whatever you really are... you’re safe here.  ❞

❝  goats being goats, it would just come back the next day looking for food.  ❞

❝  i would like you to leave my office now… and i’ll ask you not to tamper with evidence in the future, understood?  ❞

❝  no, of course, i don’t have signal out here, so i can’t just call triple-a.  ❞

❝  what are you doing in my office—at four goddamn thirty in the morning?  ❞

❝  you ever wonder where the line is?  you know, between human and not?  ❞

❝  the funny thing i’ve noticed about war:  no matter how terrible the fighting is, there always seems to be too much waiting. too much quiet. too much sitting around, bored to tears between fits of chaos and violence, lost in routine while waiting for the other shoe to drop.  ❞

❝  a lot of people condemn them for that. we’re so sure we’d never resort to that—that we’d rather die than cross that unspoken boundary.  ❞

❝  i’ve been at the [workplace/institution] for ten years now. that’s long enough to know that the ones who ask questions are the ones who can’t cut it.  ❞

❝  the program blew every fuse in the lab. including the lights.  ❞

❝  it was soon after they left that i began to have trouble sleeping.  ❞

❝  perhaps we never knew each other as well as most friends do, but… we cared for one another.  ❞

❝  most of her questions are a bit above my pay grade.  ❞

❝  i’m trying, i’m trying! i can’t get the door open!  ❞

❝  i don’t know why she needed my help:  i think she had a better grasp of it than most science fiction writers.  ❞

❝  we both had places to be afterwards, so we kind of rushed. i really wish i’d taken the time to say goodbye.  ❞

❝  i guess some things just… don’t want to stay buried.  ❞

❝  it was completely against orders of course, but no one really noticed or cared that far from the front.  ❞

❝  i offered to buy him a cup of coffee.  ❞

❝  newspapers praised them at the time:  saw them as heroes of exploration and paragons of pioneer courage.  ❞

❝  i signed a lot of big, scary nda’s during my time there.  ❞

❝  i did the only thing that came to mind:  i took a grenade from my belt, removed the pin, and threw it.  ❞

❝  i doubt this storm will last more than a couple of days, and once it lets up we can sneak out of here and get going again. very, very carefully.  ❞

❝  given enough time, everything will rot away to its elementary components, and that, you can’t reverse.  ❞

❝  i really can’t see anything from inside the van.  ❞

❝  i knew there were a few experiments that dealt with some pretty high-level theoretical concepts, but i wasn’t directly involved with any of them.  ❞

❝  it’s a strange choice, but then again, he’s a strange man.  ❞

❝  i know, it sounds ridiculous. trust me, i’ve done everything i can think of to make that conclusion go away.  ❞

❝  scared the bejeezus out of a bunch of skiers, but they were nice enough to let me in after deciding i probably wasn’t a ghost.  ❞

❝  please… it burns my skin… please…  ❞

❝  i forgot how fast storms blow in up here.  ❞

❝  it’s not like i felt out of control:  it felt more natural than breathing.  ❞

❝  i didn’t know what i was doing, not at any conscious level. but one step seemed to lead to another, then the next, and then the next.  ❞

❝  it’s called a butcher’s shop in some places, but a mortuary in others. as much as i’d love to imply there was some sweeney todd style recycling going on here, i think the place has just been a lot of things over the years.  ❞

❝  god, these things are creepy as hell.  ❞

❝  if you wouldn’t mind, please, tell us what happened? in your own time, of course.  ❞

❝  it took a few long, nerve-wracking days to work up my courage and visit the section again.  ❞

❝  it’s not that odd to think that people ate each other out there.  ❞

❝  i didn’t think there was a ghost in my room or anything like that, i just kept hearing noises whenever i was about to fall asleep.  ❞

❝  i downed half a dozen energy drinks at 6 and called it dinner—i know, i know, it’s a nasty habit i picked up in grad school.  ❞

❝  they told me that the cpu and motherboard had somehow been melted into a solid lump of plastic and silicon.  ❞

❝  i mean, [name] was a pain in the ass, but at least he didn’t…  ❞

❝  my schedule was full, but i had something else fall through at the last minute. i had your number on my desk, so i thought i may as well call.  ❞

❝  i wonder if it was afraid, or if it even realized what was going to happen. it probably didn’t.  ❞

❝  i need to get more coffee. or punch someone. whichever’s more convenient.  ❞

❝  god, if that’s really how i sound…  ❞

❝  people think i write horror, but i don’t really think that’s true. i just write fiction with all of the comfortable little lies taken out of it.  ❞

❝  i have loved the stars too truly to be fearful of the night.  ❞

❝  i think he felt something about this place… some influence or power that needed to be destroyed, so he tried to do it the only way he knew how.  ❞

❝  well, it’s a tricky thing. the more realistic you make them, the more… unreal they start to look. i think it’s something about the eyes.  ❞

❝  i offered to stay late, just to smooth things over.  ❞

❝  maybe i can get some writing done while i’m stuck here…  ❞

❝  no child could grow up in a jewish home surrounded by books and not read at least one story about golems.  ❞

❝  i just wasn’t a good student, despite my love of reading.  ❞

❝  i have to say, i like your jane doe.  ❞

❝  she was a scientist herself.  maybe not formally, but her way of thinking, her insight, her methods... they were scientist’s qualities.  ❞

❝  seriously, what do i need to do to get a little privacy around here, a little dignity?  hang a  ‘ do not disturb ’  sign on the door?  change all my locks?  ❞

❝  maybe it was stupid, but i figured, ‘ hey, early december, not a cloud in the sky—should still be fine, right? ’  ❞

❝  jesus, [name], i wasn’t born yesterday.  ❞

❝  maybe doing this while it’s still dark outside isn’t the best idea.  ❞

❝  more than a century and a half have passed, and this place is still just as dangerous as it was then.  ❞

❝  now, [mr./ms./mx. name], i’m sure you know why you’re here.  ❞

❝  the [event] was a bust—only about a dozen people showed up all afternoon.  ❞

❝  i never put much stock in the idea of inspiration, but for the first time in my life, it felt like i wasn’t pushing myself through the muck of miscalculation and guesswork towards a solution. i was being pulled towards an answer that already existed.  ❞

❝  it felt like i was a few steps from finding out something fundamental. some truth about our universe that no other scientist had ever dared to dream of.  ❞

❝  huh. that’s… that’s weird. i could’ve sworn there wasn’t a sculpture back there before.  ❞

❝  apparently, no one had told them what i was doing, and i wasn’t actually cleared to leave.  ❞

❝  maybe he’s trying to make amends. keeping watch over these half-living things to make sure no harm comes to them.  ❞

❝  i expected the building to be wreathed in shadow and overgrown with cobwebs, but it's actually really nice.  ❞

❝  sorry, i was trying to get my recorder working, but it froze up on me so i had to find a tape for this old…  ❞

❝  okay. just… don’t get me sacked, alright?  can’t exactly retire on this salary.  ❞

❝  but if it was real—i don’t know if i somehow created it, or if it was feeding me information about itself before it appeared.  ❞

❝  i’ve never had a manic episode before, and i was well below the level of caffeine needed to cause intoxication. as far as i can tell, there isn’t a medical explanation for what happened.  ❞

❝  i don’t get the appeal of meeting real celebrities. it’s just a cheap shock of recognition, and nothing more.  ❞

❝  whatever this… thing was, it sounds pretty dangerous.  ❞

❝  are you familiar with temporal asymmetry?  ❞

❝  i just want to make that abundantly clear:  this /wasn’t/ the plan.  ❞

❝  right then, now let’s get started. please state your name and rank for the record.  ❞

❝  though my soul may set in darkness, it will rise in perfect light.  ❞

❝  a cracker of a book, young lady.  ❞

❝  no wonder they’re keeping them in storage. they’d give anyone nightmares.  ❞

❝  i was just going to finish out my shift unless… you want me to stick around?  ❞

❝  i went to the university, but don’t remember much of the years i spent there.  ❞

❝  having to study textbooks and essays day in and day out took all of the joy out of reading for a long time.  ❞

❝  we call paradoxes paradoxes for a reason:  no matter how plausible they seem, they can never really happen.  ❞

❝  i don’t know what happened to me that night. i still don’t even know if what i saw was real.  ❞

❝  when we look into the void for too long, we find the monsters instead.  ❞

[bcckettsims]

💀 :)

tw: death

It was funny how things suddenly felt like they were moving in slow motion.  The words that were coming out of the nurse’s mouth were something he should have been paying attention to, but he couldn’t focus on anything because suddenly nothing mattered anymore.  This was a joke, an elaborate prank pulled together by Celeste and Pres and maybe Nic was even in on it, because he was sure he’d been kind of a little shit lately and must have deserved it.  That had to be the case.

The evidence for that got thinner and thinner as a series of hospital workers approached him--Doctors and nurses, caseworkers, insurance, billing... he wasn’t enough of an adult for this.  He didn’t know what half of the paperwork he was having to sign even really meant, but it was being thrust under his nose and taken away almost as quickly.  And everything came crashing back down whenever someone had asked him where he wanted to send the body.

The body.

He couldn’t speak, his mouth hung open and slack as he stared at the one who’d asked.  How fucking dare you, the voice in his head screamed at the man in the lab coat.  She’s my wife, not just ‘the body.’  The inability to answer might have been the best option for him, since a war was breaking out in his mind.  There were pamphlets shoved into his fist and he was walked out to the curb in front of the hospital.  Time lost all meaning as he stood there and eventually Nic showed up, coaxed him to finally move and get into the car so they could go back to the hotel.

He couldn’t stay in his suite, not when it held all their memories, all of their stuff.  Not when it was going to be so dreadfully empty again.  He packed a backpack with as much as he wanted to shove in it and walked up the stairs to the floor above, stopping at Nic’s suite and knocking on the door

Beckett didn’t say a word for two whole days.

When he finally spoke, it was the morning of the funeral.  He wore the suit that he’d worn the night he took her to prom, this time with a blue tie instead of a red one.  Everyone that had put up with him in the past two days had been too nice.  It was obvious that he was breaking down, his world was crashing in around him, and he was quickly losing whatever will he had left to go on.  But as he was going through his bag, looking for the cufflinks she’d given him at their wedding, a folded piece of paper fell out.  It was their vows, where they’d promised to love each other no matter what, come literal hell or high water.  

Lia was the one that found him and whenever she asked if he was ready, he shrugged and cleared his throat.  “I don’t think I’ll ever be ready.  But she deserves my best, and these past two days weren’t that.  I made a promise, and I’ve gotta stick to it.”

[zhlabfurniture]

Wood Lab Casework: Learn the Construction Essentials Now!

Wood lab casework combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, bringing warmth and professionalism to laboratory spaces. This guide covers everything you need to know, from material selection and chemical-resistant finishes to countertop integration, installation, and maintenance.

Wood Lab Casework Material Selection

ZH LAB offers a variety of hardwood and engineered wood options, each designed to meet different laboratory needs. Choosing the right material ensures durability, resistance to chemicals, and optimal performance.

Common Wood Lab Casework Materials & Their Applications

MaterialDescriptionProsConsBest ApplicationsPlywoodLayers of wood veneer glued for strengthStrong, moisture-resistant, less warpingHeavy, more expensive than MDFResearch labs, educational labsMDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard)Compressed wood fibers with a smooth finishAffordable, smooth surface, easy to paintProne to moisture damageLabs needing painted or laminated finishesParticleboardPressed wood particles with laminateBudget-friendly, lightweightLess durable, moisture-sensitiveLow-impact lab environmentsHardwood (Maple, Oak, etc.)Solid wood constructionHighly durable, premium aestheticsExpensive, heavyHigh-end research & academic labsHigh-Pressure Laminate (HPL) / Phenolic Resin CoatedWood core with a protective laminateChemical & moisture resistant, easy to cleanCan be costly, prone to chippingChemical labs, healthcare labs

 

Choosing the Right Material

For chemical-heavy labs: Plywood with laminate or phenolic resin is best.

For budget-conscious projects: MDF or particleboard with laminate works well.

For durability: Plywood or hardwood ensures longevity.

For aesthetics & customization: MDF allows smooth painting, while plywood with veneer provides a natural wood look.

Chemical-Resistant Finishes for Wooden Lab Table

To extend the lifespan of wood lab casework, choosing a durable finish is essential.

Popular Options Include

Melamine: Affordable and resistant to stains & chemicals.

High-Pressure Laminate (HPL): Moisture-resistant with a smooth surface.

Phenolic Resin: Excellent chemical resistance, ideal for harsh environments.

Epoxy Coating: High durability but can be expensive.

Why Melamine Is a Popular Choice

Chemical-resistant: Protects against acids, solvents, and cleaning agents.

Moisture-resistant: Prevents warping in humid conditions.

Cost-effective: More affordable than epoxy or phenolic resin.

Easy maintenance: Wipes clean with mild detergents.

Common Colors for Finished Wood Lab Casework

Countertop Integration for Wooden Lab Casework

Selecting the right countertop ensures long-lasting performance. Here are common options:Countertop TypeProsConsEpoxy ResinHighly chemical & heat-resistant, non-porousExpensive, heavyPhenolic ResinLightweight, durable, moisture-resistantLess heat-resistant than epoxyStainless SteelSterile, easy to clean, heat-resistantProne to scratches & dentsHigh-Pressure Laminate (HPL)Affordable, stain-resistantNot suitable for high-heat environments

Choosing the Right Countertop

For chemical-intensive labs: Opt for epoxy or phenolic resin.

For heat resistance: Choose stainless steel or epoxy resin.

For budget-friendly setups: HPL is a great choice.

For easy cleaning & maintenance: Go with non-porous surfaces.

More resources about lab countertop selection:

Why Epoxy Resin Lab Countertops Are Ideal for Laboratories

What Makes Phenolic Resin Lab Countertops a Game-Changer?

Hardware & Accessories for Wood Lab Casework

Hardware & Accessories for Wood Lab Casework

Essential Hardware

Hinges: Soft-close, self-closing, or chemical-resistant hinges.

Drawer Slides: Ball-bearing for durability or soft-close for noise reduction.

Handles & Pulls: Stainless steel, epoxy-coated, or recessed pulls for safety.

Locks: Cam locks, electronic keypad locks, or padlock hasps for security

Hardware & Accessories for Wood Lab Casework

Accessories for Functionality

Adjustable Shelving: Available in plywood, MDF, or phenolic resin.

Ventilation Grilles: Prevent chemical buildup inside cabinets.

Chemical-Resistant Liner Mats: Protect against spills and corrosion.

Installation & Maintenance of Wooden Lab Casework

Easy & Simple Installation

ZH LAB provides detailed installation drawings to simplify setup. Pre-drilled holes, labeled components, and professional-grade hardware make assembly seamless.

Use leveling tools for stability.

Secure cabinets with proper fasteners.

Ensure smooth hinge and drawer operation.

Maintenance for Longevity

Clean with mild soap and water; avoid harsh chemicals.

Wipe spills immediately to prevent moisture damage.

Inspect hinges and slides regularly and lubricate if necessary.

Use protective mats inside cabinets for added chemical resistance.

More maintenance methods for different materials:

How to Maintain a Stainless Steel Clean Room Bench for Longevity

How to Maintain Lab Tables

Choosing the Right Lab Casework: Wood vs. Alternative Materials

Wood Lab Casework: Pros & Cons

✅ Wood Lab Casework Pros:

Cost-effective compared to metal or resin.

Aesthetic appeal with a natural wood finish.

Customizable with various finishes and configurations

❌ Wooden Laboratory Casework Cons:

Limited chemical & moisture resistance.

Less heat-resistant than metal alternatives.

Wood lab casework is best suited for educational, healthcare, and research labs with moderate chemical exposure.

High-Performance Alternatives for Demanding Labs

Phenolic Resin: Best for high chemical resistance.

Stainless Steel: Ideal for sterile and moisture-prone environments.

Epoxy Resin: High durability for extreme lab conditions.

Powder-Coated Steel: Corrosion-resistant for heavy-duty use.

In addition to wood lab tables, ZH LAB produces lab furniture in stainless lab table, phenolic resin, and epoxy resin to meet the demands of different lab environments. Whether you need superior chemical resistance, enhanced durability, or moisture-proof solutions, we have the expertise to provide the perfect fit for your workspace.

See more comparisons of different materials in lab table at:

Stainless Steel Work Table vs. Wood Lab Table: Which One Is Right for Your Laboratory?

Why Choose ZH LAB?

🔹 Looking for reliable, durable lab casework? Contact ZH LAB today for a customized solution!

[cultureisdarkbeer]

I need you to write me some jealous Scully please! Surprise me.

Here’s some jealous Scully for your reading pleasure. Sorry it took so long, I was lost out at sea for a couple months.

“I see Mulder is back to work. Looks like he wasn’t hurt too badly from his bout with the serial killer,” Brittany said to Scully as they continued their conversation over Scully’s bullpen desk. They had been making small talk when the sentence casually fell from Brittany’s lips. “Kelly ran into him at a restaurant with his girlfriend Sunday.” 

The words howled in Scully’s soul and wrapped icy tentacles around her heart so tightly it almost stopped beating. It didn’t matter if it was true or illusion. The mere utterance of a chance that he could be living a part of his life she was unaware was too much  At the same time, how could she be so irrational? When did she allow herself to become a slave to her emotions? When did she lose control?

Scully forced a smile. “Mulder’s a quick healer.” 

Once downstairs, Scully found Mulder in the back of the office, on his cell. He turned to greet her with a half smile, his eyes brightening. Then he quickly turned away and lowered his voice so she couldn’t make out what he was saying to the person on the phone. She didn’t need to be jumping to conclusions. Maybe the repercussions with Pfaster affected her in ways she had not anticipated. Mulder’s phone snapped closed and he joined her by her desk. 

“I may have another case for us,” he said leaning in close enough for her to catch his scent and feel the heat of his cheek. It made her want to press her lips to his and forget any of the day happened. She closed her eyes and he cleared his throat. Their pull had already stirred her lower region, and by the looks of it, his as well. 

She forced her mind to focus. “Is that who you were on the phone with? A possible lead?”

Mulder’s eyes diverted to the desk. “No.”

Bricks sat at her chest and a paralyzing chill snaked up her spine. “Dinner, tonight?” she managed to get out without showing her cards.

“I can’t. I-I want to, I just, I have plans. Tomorrow?”

Scully couldn’t help but feel crestfallen. “Yeah, yes, of course.”

“Hey,” he said, placing a hand on her shoulder. She wanted to shrug it away, but she wasn’t about to have this conversation at work. She had to hold it together. He continued. “Maybe I can come over after, if it’s not too late.”

“Sure,” Scully said, her voice almost at a whisper, “if it’s not too late.” 

*

Later that night, back at home and after dinner, Scully retreated from the shower. Not wanting to think about what Mulder might be doing and where, she diverted her mind to more satisfying contemplation. Part of her thoughts were in the lab reviewing casework, yet another remained on their antics over the past weekend. Maybe she had been letting her fears get the best of her. When Mulder looked at her it made her feel like she was the most beautiful, the most important person in the world. And the loving, deep expression that overtook him when they were together. 

Dreamily, she flopped her robe covered body onto her bed. She leaned back on her elbows and glanced at the mirror attached to her dresser. Her robe had drifted to the side, exposing her sex to the reflection. Her mind stopped drifting. Was that the view that Mulder had when he was going down on her? Did he like what he saw? Did it excite him? The image of him between her legs, made her send her fingers down to delicately swipe around her clit. Visions of his tongue pressing gently against her folds, swirling around, underneath, inside. The hot, wet feeling of his mouth vibrating against her as he moaned; she moaned, sharp lightning shooting through her. 

Her fingers increased their friction, but it wasn’t enough. She reached for her bullet and switched it to high, focusing it around her clit with the palm of her hand, vibrating along while her long thin delicate finger softly slipped inside. The more she thought of Mulder- his hard thin body, his eyes tender embrace- the wetter she became. Her second finger followed the first and she imagined Mulder sliding inside. The thrust of his cock, the pulsing contraction of his orgasm against her walls. Secretly, she craved for him to come so hard his heart would never let him look at another, that he’d never let her go. She wanted him to pour so much of himself inside her that later in the night when he had fallen asleep in her arms, she would still be able to feel him, a beautifully sore ache; part of him, mixing with her, overflowing and dripping from her, onto the bedsheet. She slid her fingers deeper inside, curling them, toying with her G-spot. When she climaxed, she silently mouthed Mulder’s name, his face ingrained in her imagination.

Scully switched off the vibrator and swallowed hard, her heart racing. She was losing control of her emotions and her rationale. During the time she had her cancer, she knew then that she had fallen in love with him, but now she was falling in love with Mulder in a different, more permanent and solidified way. Mulder had told her the way he felt, but was it the same unconditional unfathomable all-consuming feeling that she had for him? 

Scully noticed the time. Mulder still hadn’t called. Instead of sliding on her nightwear, she got dressed and headed out.

*

The light went out in Mulder’s apartment and Scully’s stomach sank. What would be left of their relationship if she didn’t trust him? He had to have his reasons. Whether it was him trailing a clue to his sister, or an undercover case, but even so, he could need her help as much as he didn’t want her involved. He usually did. With that  justification, Scully left her car and entered the elevator. It crept along, whirring and squealing, until finally, the doors slid open. The clicking of her heels echoed against the wood of the hallway as they had done so many times before, but this time, it felt empty. She prayed as her key entered his lock- the one he trusted her with- that her reasons were as altruistic as she hoped. Inside she shuffled his papers and logged into his computer.  There were no clues. Nothing unusual. In his garbage can lay a crumpled bag. Before leaving, she decided to look inside, thinking maybe it might give a clue as to where he had been. 

Her heart climbed into her throat and shattered in a disarray of pieces. There was no mistaking the printed drug store receipt: deodorant, shaving cream, lotion, razor blades, shampoo, lube, and condoms. Condoms. They didn’t use condoms. Ever. There was no need. They had no venereal diseases. Besides, they had entertained sex so many times, it would be ineffective now. Why?  

She started to get a very sick feeling in the pit of her stomach. Maybe he was using them alone? No, that was grasping at straws. Could he actually be with another woman? 

That thought did it. She barely made it to the sink before she began to vomit. She had never felt so disgusted in her life. Betrayed. Was their relationship, all those years, nothing more than a beautiful lie? Had she shared herself with a stranger? Scully lurched out of his apartment. She rather be sick in the street than spend one more minute there. 

Hands trembling, heart pounding, she drove, trying not to lose it. How could this be? She had never known Mulder to be with anyone, but if he was, would it be cheating? Were they together?

Not knowing where else to go and not wanting to go back to her apartment, Scully headed to her mother’s. She was a quivering mess of nerves when she finally parked her car in front of the house. As soon as her mother opened the door and got a good look at her face, Scully froze. Scant moments past and Maggie’s arms were wrapped around her, stroking her hair as she did when she was a little girl. Her mother’s concern undid her. She heard a broken sob escape from her throat, as though from a distance. Scully had been so certain not to leave her heart unprotected, to convince herself it was all fleeting. In the end, she had no control, even with that. 

“Scully, what is it?” Mulder’s voice vibrated through the room. 

Scully hardened in her mother’s arms and stepped away. She felt heat suffuse her cheeks and a perverse shiver of pure pleasure rocked her body at the sight of him. It was just like Mulder to appear at the most disarming moment possible. 

“Dana, what’s wrong?” Her mother’s voice was shaky. What was going on here? What was Mulder doing in her mother’s house?

“Why are you here?” Scully demanded. “I thought you had a date?”

“I didn’t have a date,” Mulder spat out.

“Who were you with last night?” Scully couldn’t control the accusations leaving her lips. She knew how it sounded with her mother standing right there, but at the moment she didn’t care. She had to know the truth.

“I was with a woman.”

That struck a nerve. A sharp dagger direct to the gut. Scully straightened. “I know you were. The whole damn FBI knew you were.”

“It’s not what you think.” Mulder looked almost smug and it only infuriated her more. 

“So now you’re reading minds?” Scully reached in her front pocket and pulled out the crinkled receipt, slapping it against Mulder’s chest. “This, is yours.”

He took it from her hand and glanced it over. “Scully, give me a chance to explain.”

“You don’t owe me an explanation Mulder,” she said feeling angrier by the minute.

“But I do,” her mother interrupted. “Fox is here because I asked him to come. Dana, why don’t you and I got to the kitchen and discuss this privately. I’ll make some tea.”

In a blink, Maggie had the tea kettle full, boiling water, the sugar bowl out and cups laid out on the table.

“I’ll be right back,” Scully warned Mulder who nodded slowly, sending his tongue into his cheek.

By the time she reached the kitchen she was regretting getting out of bed this morning. Whatever new and exciting information her mother had for her in the kitchen, she wasn’t prepared.  

Scully waited as her mother steeped the tea and set a cup in front of her. She sat down next to Scully. “You know about my bereavement group at the church.”

“Yes, of course,” Scully said. She knew Mulder would have nothing to do with a church group. What was it that her mother was having so much trouble revealing? 

“It’s been five years since your father passed away and I’ve made lots of friends at that bereavement group.” Maggie took a sip of her tea and ran her finger around the delicate porcelain handle. “One of those friends asked me out to dinner with him.”

That caused Scully’s chin to lift. “He did?”  Her mother was seeing a man? And Mulder knew? The only two people she trusted in the world were both leaving her in the dark.

“Yes,” her mother continued, “It’s been decades since I even entertained the idea of being on a date with a man and I was so nervous and I found myself at the pharmacy, just staring at all this… stuff.”

Scully hid her smile in her tea. The dedicated Catholic seeking advice from Mulder. “And Mulder helped you out with this… problem?”

“Yes.” Her mother blushed.

“Well, mom, I’m sure Dad would want you to be happy.” Scully picked up her cup and rose from the table. This was too uncomfortable to get into now and it still didn’t explain who he was having dinner with the other night. 

“We shouldn’t leave Mulder out there too long,” Scully said as an excuse. She didn’t know how she felt about her mom going on dates or seeking Mulder for advice on prophylactics and she didn’t want to think about it any longer.

“I’m going to run to the store,” her mother said, already heading back into the living room where Mulder was lounging on her chesterfield. “You two need to talk.” She gently took Scully’s hand and gave it a squeeze. “Listen to him Dana. He’s a good man and he cares about you very deeply.”

Scully set her mouth in a hard line. “It doesn’t matter how he feels mom, if I can’t live with how he acts.”

Maggie shook her head. “You two will talk. I’ll be back.”

“Well, I guess I better sit down for this one,” Scully said sarcastically, taking a seat on the couch next to Mulder, tucking her leg up underneath her. He leaned in to speak, giving her almost no personal space. Scully didn’t break Mulder’s gaze or steer away from the pain forming in his eyes. With all this revelation she had started to feel lightheaded. 

“So why don’t you tell me about that woman you took to the restaurant?” Scully asked, a hint of accusation in her voice. They might as well get it over with.

“Her sister had been abducted,” he let out slowly, his voice pitched low. “Her situation sounded so much like my own.”

“So you connected with this woman.”

“I listened to her story. That is all.”

Suddenly, Scully felt sick to her stomach. “Mulder, I’d like to believe that it was all, I really would, but that wouldn’t be the truth. That part of you goes to a place that I cannot follow and I couldn’t possibly understand.”

“How can you say that Scully, you lost your sister too.”

“It’s not the same and you know it’s not. I know where my sister is, what happened to her life. My childhood has not been having to deal with that grief.” 

Mulder fell silent for so long Scully didn’t think he was going to answer, but it was important to her that he did. 

“What happened to my sister will never come between us,” he finally said. Even though she knew he couldn’t make such a promise, it somehow made things more palpable. 

She forced her voice and expression empty as she spoke, wanting honesty from Mulder without him fearing retaliation. “And this woman, you plan on seeing more of her?” The sick knot in her stomach was growing. 

“She needs someone Scully. Someone to talk to about this.” 

And I need you. She wanted to say the words aloud, but they wouldn’t come. Instead she simply said, “Oh.”

Mulder gently sent his index finger to caress her cheek. “That’s why I introduced her to a group within MUFON where she can find like minded people to discuss her experiences.”

His words struck her silent. She had misread Mulder. How? She knew him as well as she knew herself. Maybe more. How did she allow such irrational emotions to tamper with seeing him in full clarity? 

Mulder had begun to smile, but fell broodily silent. After a moment, he asked, “I know you’ve always accepted my past, but now that we are more, how could you want something so sordid? You deserve so much more, Scully.”

She covered his hand with her own as it lay on the cushion. “I knew what going down this path would mean, and I would not pursue something I didn’t want.” He looked relieved, but oddly sad at her response. Unwillingly, she felt some of her walls weakening. “The way I feel about you scares me Mulder,” she admitted, feeling slightly panicked that she had revealed so much.

The look of longing he returned made Scully want to lose herself in him. Without a thought, her eyes closed and she felt the fullness of his spongy lips press against her own. She kissed him back with all the pent-up longing he had built in her. There was so much she wanted to tell him, about her feelings, about his. She tried to put it all into their kiss. It was a much more efficient form of communication. Her fingers tangled in his hair as she leaned against his warm hard frame. His hand grasped her back to steady her as she shifted her weight onto him. She wasted no time slipping her tongue against his and her hand had already begun to unbutton his shirt to feel his delicious bare skin with her fingertips, when she heard the door creak open and forcibly pulled away. 

Maggie smiled as she took off her coat and Mulder quickly left Scully’s side on the couch, to take her bags of groceries to the kitchen and place them on the counter. Mulder eyed her sheepishly, but she didn’t say a word about what she had walked in on. 

Maggie returned to the living room and addressed Scully instead. “Well, I assume you two had a good conversation. I’m glad you were able to work it out.” 

“Thank you, Mom,” Scully said, giving her mom a kiss on the cheek and ushering Mulder with her eyes. “It’s getting late. I’ll call you in the morning?”

“Certainly, dear,” Maggie replied with a self-satisfying grin.

Mulder hunched over to get closer to Scully as they walked to their respectable cars. “I guess we’ll be calling it a night,” he said blandly.

Scully put one hand on her door handle and lifted her chin his way. “You can follow me to my apartment. We should continue our..” her tongue reached out and caressed her lips, “conversation.”

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[ryouverua]

Shuichi Saihara FTE (Kaede #1)

Whelp, let’s jump right into it!

This is a blast from the past.

“I.... detect.... things....????”

Kaede lmao

I like how her immediate jump is to the most famous fictionalized version of detectives that you see on TV rather than a police detective which, while not the most common job, isn’t exactly unknown to the general public.

Hey, wait. She naturally goes for thinking about.... fictional versions of.... oh sonuva-

also interestingly his actual lab plays up to that ‘fictional Sherlockian detective’ as opposed to being something he really likes himself or, really, is relevant to his actual backstory detective work. That’ll come up later when we get to it.

(I think I’ve mentioned I did these two my first time around, fully intending to complete the nonexistent other three later in the game.... how convenient for me).

Is that the real problem here

Three cases later

Shuichi: FML I am LITERALLY NOT THIS KIND OF DETECTIVE

Ouch.

This was actually the route I originally went with so I’m going to choose it again to start ~

I did find it really interesting that he was a different sort of detective than you would expect in a murder game! Also I, uh, didn’t really want Kaede to insult him right off the bat lmao

Tailing cheating wives/husbands and tracking them to rendezvous points, potentially having to snap incriminating pictures to give to their spurned partners...... yeah that wouldn’t be fun

And he’s young, too. Imagine having to tell a woman twice your age that her suspicions were correct and her husband was cheating on her. That’s rough, buddy.

or men

“At the very most I would grind in the currently-locked casino until I win enough money to buy multiple love hotel keys so I can date all my classmates with no expectations of commitment!”

now that’s equality

besides, shuichi has two hands.

“So I really hope no one actually follows through and tries to kill anyone. Okay? Okay, Kaede? Are you listening? .... Kaede????”

Jessica Fletcher is an old reference. 8′) I’m curious about what the japanese version of this was.

Either way, it’s an amazing contrast to Kyouko and her ‘I can hear death’s footsteps’ or Erika Furudo’s ‘I go to places and people die’ - death isn’t a normal thing for him. Investigating murder is outside of his area. He’s had a murder case he had to deal with, sure, but it’s not his normal. A lot of his issues in the game with investigating and motives really are because he’s somewhat of a square peg trying to fit into a circular hole - he just hasn’t been trained to deal with a lot of things a homicide detective would know to look for or think about. There’s a bit of a transfer of skill in terms of tracking and investigating but overall... he’s smart enough to adapt and he’s adequate, but....

Research... sitting down and taking the time to go through things. In other words, not being forced to investigate quickly and try to put things together on the fly with an arbitrary time limit. It’s like the game is yelling at us at how ill-equipped he is to deal with the DR format from the get-go. 8′)

...... Yellow-gold eyes belong to people with good research skills??? Is this shade at Korekiyo??? The more yellow your eyes, the more studious you are????

Aaaaw I miss the days of Shuichi being a side character who I could compliment and get to blush like this....

More examples of ‘tracking’ things. Actually, that does mean that Kaito was on the right track when he gave the ‘mystery items’ to Shuichi to unlock things around the school with! Go figure.

Almost all of his casework revolves around things that aren’t crimes. The game just keeps hammering that in.

And here comes the sympathetic detective part....

I want to emphasize ‘sympathetic’ as opposed to ‘empathetic’ because I’ll say it over and over again - Shuichi is someone who really does care about others, but isn’t the best at putting himself in their shoes despite his best efforts. He’s not terrible at it, but it’s definitely not one of his skills.

And it sounds like it’s something he picked up from his uncle, who probably was an incredibly empathetic detective. Maybe it’s a skill Shuichi would develop in the future, if he had a chance. Unfortunately, he doesn’t manage it fast enough during the game...

Sounds like his uncle was a great role model and possibly based off of Kyouko who despite being very kuudere showed remarkable emotional insight at times as would be expected by a homicide detective who excels not only at investigating but determining motives

Interesting how his uncle was omitted so quickly in Kaede’s mind...

I really do still like this FTE because we don’t get to explore Shuichi from a third-party perspective after chapter 1. I really, really missed that.

[raywritesthings]

What Have They Lost? 1/?

My Writing Fandom: Arrow, The Flash Characters: Barry Allen, Iris West, Laurel Lance, Oliver Queen, Connor Hawke, Cisco Ramon, Ted Grant Pairings: Barry Allen/Iris West, Laurel Lance/Oliver Queen Summary: "I can definitely tell you that there’s a way we’re going to bring [Laurel] back and she’s going to be alive and well. And Flashpoint might have a little bit to do with that." -Wendy Mericle AKA: The AU where that wasn't a blatant lie, and Flashpoint has bigger repercussions for Barry's friends and allies than he first realized. Notes: So, probably not wise to start yet another WIP without finishing the one I have going but...I got really excited about this idea and wanted to see what people thought. If this is continued (which I hope to do so), things may get a little confusing as certain characters will be going by different (more comic book accurate) names, but I'll do my best to make that clear when introducing them. There are characters referenced in this chapter who will have a bigger role going forward, and when that happens I will add their character tags. Similarly, if some characters haven't been mentioned at all yet, that doesn't mean they won't be in the story. Their character tags will be added later, too. Much thanks to @colorofmymindposts for beta-ing this chapter and helping me restructure some things. It's a much better beginning as a result. Title is pulled directly from a line in DC Rebirth by Geoff Johns while song titles and lyrics were pulled from both the Black Canary solo book and Green Arrow Rebirth, and I make no claim of owning any of them. I hope you all enjoy and let me know your initial impressions! *Also can be read on my AO3*

Barry felt that, all things considered, life was treating him fairly well lately.

Of course, he’d had to fix the mistake he’d made going back in time to save his mother, and even now there were consequences from that. The team hadn’t been happy to learn that truth, and he worried his and Cisco’s friendship would never again be quite what it was. There were things that had resulted from his meddling that he would always feel guilt over.

But not this. Not him and Iris. Despite an awkward first attempt at a date and the second getting interrupted as well, they were falling into a better pattern now as a couple.

She found him in his lab one late morning while Julian was out at a crime scene, so they had the space to themselves for a bit. Iris wrapped her arms around his middle from behind and placed her chin on his shoulder, though he doubted it was to see the spectrometer he was working with.

“Any plans for tonight?”

Barry shook his head. “Nothing specific. You know, just,” he waved a hand to indicate general Flash stuff, which Iris understood with no trouble.

“Think you could take a break for one night?”

Barry raised an eyebrow. “Why?”

“Because I got concert tickets and I want you to go with me.”

A concert? That wasn’t usually his scene. “How’d you get them?”

“Daria in Arts and Entertainment gets sent them sometimes and she can’t make tonight work, so she offered them to me.”

Daria in Arts and Entertainment? That probably meant this was some kind of pop thing, didn’t it? Barry’s face scrunched up.

“I don’t know, Iris…”

“Bear, come on.” She squeezed him tight for a moment before letting go and taking a couple steps back. “It’s Birds of Prey!”

“Am I supposed to know them?”

“They’ve only been my favorite band since college, so I would hope so,” she remarked, and Barry turned around with a frown. He could have sworn Iris always said she liked the pop star Cassidy best. “They do some slow stuff, too. I know how you like your jazz,” Iris added  with an indulgent roll of the eyes. “So are you in or out?”

He knew Iris still wanted to do some normal couple stuff as well as more extravagant dates. And if she was happy, Barry was sure he could put up with some music that might not be his taste.

“Yeah. Yeah, I’m in. It’ll be fun.”

“Great.” Iris leaned in and pecked him on the lips. “Gotta head back to work, but I will see you later for our date. I’ll text you the details.”

“Okay.” Barry watched her go, his smile falling off his face as she disappeared down the stairs. If this was Iris’ favorite band, he was going to have to do some research.

He went to his computer and searched the name Birds of Prey, only finding articles about a band and their lead singer, a woman only known as Dinah.

“Triumphant return to Central City after particle accelerator accident,” he read aloud to himself from the bit of preview text from one article. What did that mean? And why did the name Dinah sound oddly familiar to him?

A knock on his lab door called his attention, and he was busy the rest of the afternoon with casework, even with Julian’s added assistance. Rather than resume his internet search after his shift ended, Barry decided to pursue a different avenue of inquiry.

Cisco was present when he rushed into STAR Labs. His friend barely looked up from the computer monitor he’d been studying.

“Cisco, hey, what do you know about Birds of Prey?”

That question caught the engineer’s attention. “Uh, you mean one of the greatest musical groups of our time?”

“Yeah. Sure.” How did everybody already know this band besides him?

“They’re stopping here on their comeback tour. I think it’s tonight, isn’t it? I missed the online bid for tickets.”

“Iris got two from her coworker, so we’re going tonight,” Barry revealed.

Cisco groaned. “Lucky. I only saw Dinah live once, back when she was doing open mic nights around colleges, you know?” Cisco’s gaze got a faraway look. “I had a poster of her on my wall all through grad school. I’d give anything for a picture with her.”

“Well, I can’t promise that, but I can try and get you a picture of just her.” Barry checked his phone. “I’ve got to meet Iris at the house.”

“Yeah, have a good night.”

“You, too.” It hadn’t been perfect, but Cisco had at least been willing to open up to him about some topic, even if it was one that made little sense to Barry.

He arrived home and changed quickly into clothes better suited for a concert. Iris already had the keys to the car, so she drove them over rather than him running them. They parked on the street near the venue and joined a fast-growing line to get in.

“So, everybody keeps calling this the comeback tour,” Barry began. “What’re they coming back from?”

“You really didn’t hear?” When he shook his head, Iris continued, “They were performing on stage the night of the particle accelerator explosion.”

“And there was an accident,” he said, repeating what he had read before.

“Yeah, the sound equipment and everything, you know? I mean, the band manager got them all off the stage before anyone got too hurt, but there were all kinds of rumors about Dinah’s voice being damaged or the trauma being too much to let her go back on stage.”

“Wow,” was all Barry could come up with. 

“Yeah. But, she got back in the game. This is their last stop on the tour, at least for now. People are wondering if they might go international next.”

They had passed through the doors and now were too busy looking for their seats to talk. They weren’t right in the front row, but Arts and Entertainment writers were clearly given a good spot, probably in hopes the review would be better.

The lights dimmed, and a voice came over the systems. “Central City, here tonight is the band that needs no introduction. This is...Birds of Prey!”

The obligatory fog machine obscured things as the musicians all got into place. He counted two redheads and a woman with hair so dark it almost bordered on black. Nothing about them seemed to stand out in his memory.

But he didn’t need the large screens on either side to tell who the woman was that strode confidently downstage to the mic in the center. Even if it should have been impossible.

“Laurel?”

The crowd was too loud around them, and Iris was busy with cheering and didn’t hear him or see his distress.

How could it be possible? He still remembered standing in front of Laurel’s grave, watching as Oliver tried to hold back the anguish that had been in the wet sheen of his eyes and the deep lines of his face. He didn’t think he could ever forget that look. It hadn’t just been Barry’s team who’d loved her.

And yet she was standing above him on a stage, so alive.

“Hello, Central City! It is good to be back.” Laurel paused to let the cheers subside. “I wanted to make sure we stopped here on tour. Had a bit of a fight for it. You can ask Ted.”

Iris leaned over to tell him, “Ted’s the band manager. He’s practically a father to her.”

“He is?” Who was Ted? Where was Captain Lance?

Iris nodded but gave him a second look. “You okay?”

He felt incredibly faint, actually, but there was no time to explain anything to Iris. There were people all around them and Laurel was speaking again.

“But Ted agreed, because we don’t walk away from things. Right, Central City?”

Laurel paused again for cheers. Someone out in the crowd shouted a, “We love you!”

“I love you, too!” She replied with a beautiful smile. “No matter how many times we get knocked down, we get back up. So let’s get up and get things started!”

She motioned back to the band, and the dark brunette hit her drumsticks together four times before the rest of the music started up. People were already on their feet, and Barry stood as well to see better. Now that he was over the shock he started taking more of her appearance in. There was still her blonde hair cascading down her back, but that was about where the similarities ended in how this Laurel styled herself. She had on a blue tank top, ripped up jean shorts, and fishnet leggings on under those. Fishnets!

Was it Siren? Was this all just some trick? And yet even as he thought that it made little sense. Iris’ favorite band since college, Cisco’s poster in grad school...somehow, Laurel Lance had been a member of this band for years. 

But she’d been a hero. They all knew that. Or they had.

The song they were performing now seemed to be called Fish Out of Water, judging by the chorus. Barry could relate to that feeling. Then it hit him that Laurel actually had a really good voice. He’d never known that about her, whether it had even been true before...all this.

Because it was dawning on him what this was. Just like the changes that had occurred to his friends’ loved ones because of his meddling, the only explanation for Laurel not only being alive but drastically different than he remembered was the timeline being altered. But how could he have missed this?

If this much was different, what else had changed in Star City? He’d spoken to Felicity briefly since returning to this timeline and realized John now had twins instead of a daughter, but what about Oliver? Were he and the others okay?

“I’m gonna slow things down a bit,” Laurel was saying. “Even if I know you guys like things fast around here.”

Iris nudged him in the side with a big grin. It faded as he looked at her, though. “Seriously, Bear, you okay?”

“It can wait.” Now wasn’t the time or place to get into it. He wasn’t even sure how to explain to Iris that a woman she had never met but admired was now still a woman she had never met but admired just in a different way.

“If ya broke the wings of a blackbird, baby...it’s a joke to think she’ll look backward, baby,” Laurel sang. She looked...sad, somehow. Not in an obvious way. The confidence was still there, but it was like something was missing. And Barry thought he knew what it was.

His mind raced as the band closed out with another louder number to get people cheering right at the end.

“How do you feel about pretending to be from Arts and Entertainment?” He asked at more of a shout in Iris’ ear to be heard.

She raised both eyebrows. “What do you mean?”

Barry ran instead, back to her office at Central City Picture News to grab a camera and a couple of press passes. When he reappeared at her side, she blinked in surprise.

“Barry—”

“It’s kind of important that we talk to her. I’ll explain on the way home.”

Iris looked unsure, but she nodded, trusting him. Barry felt a boost of confidence at that; the rest of his teammates weren’t that willing to trust in his ability these days.

They made their way backstage with the passes and waited as Laurel and the others exited the stage. Barry felt a little stunned to watch her approach this close despite seeing her up on the stage. She was real and alive and a part of him wanted to rush forward and hug her — but that would probably get them kicked out.

There were a few lucky fans with special passes there, too, and he watched as the woman and sometimes-teammate he’d known signed autographs and took selfies with them. He snapped a couple of pictures with the camera he’d borrowed for appearance’s sake.

“Great show tonight, Dinah,” Iris called out to get her attention. She held out her hand when the other woman approached. “I’m Iris West with Central City Picture News. Huge fan, really.”

“Thanks for coming out,” said Laurel, her eyes only briefly passing over Barry, and it was so strange not seeing even a hint of recognition there. Had they never met in this timeline? What did this mean about whether she knew the others?

“So what’s next for the band?” He asked. “International, somewhere else in the states? Star City, maybe? It’s our, uh, sister city,” Barry added when both Laurel and Iris gave him odd looks.

“Funny you should say that. We’ll be taking some time off in Star, yeah. Ted and me, anyway. The other girls are stopping home in Gotham, but Ted’s got a place there.” She nodded back towards an older man with flecks of gray in his hair and a few lines in a deeply tanned face.

“Great,” said Barry.

“Your new song, Blackbird. It’s really good, and the lyrics, uh, what’s the story behind that?” Iris asked. Barry knew he’d put her on the spot and that this style of interview wasn’t exactly her specialty. He thought she was doing a great job, though.

Laurel shrugged. “I’ve had a lot of false starts in life. A lot of things I’ve had to walk away from. You learn to live with it.” She glanced over at Ted again who made some kind of motion. “Listen, there’s a girl scheduled to meet me in the green room, so if we could wrap this up?”

“Yeah, absolutely. I’ll message your people if I think of anything else to ask,” Iris said quickly. “Thanks so much for your time.”

“Yeah, thanks Lau— uh, Dinah,” Barry remembered at the last second. Her eyes jumped to his with a sharp look.

“Yeah. You too.” Laurel said quietly. She turned and walked away, glancing back at them over her shoulder once.

“So what was that actually about?” Iris asked in his ear. Barry gave a start and looked away from the hallway Laurel had disappeared down. They went through a side exit and started the walk back to the car.

“I know her. Or knew her. Um, before I changed the timeline.”

Iris’ eyes widened. “Really? How?”

“She wasn’t a singer. She was the Black Canary. A hero, part of Oliver’s team. She died last spring—” Iris stopped in her tracks, expression one of alarm. Barry reached for her hand to keep her moving down the sidewalk. “—or she did in that timeline. I don’t know how this happened.”

Iris was quiet for a few moments, processing the information. “Well, at least she’s here in this timeline?”

“Yeah, but,” Barry began. He shrugged. “It’s so different. She doesn’t even go by the same name!”

He remembered seeing Dinah on the gravestone, only then realizing they’d all been calling her by her middle name the whole time. What made a person decide to change names? How far back did this divergence from the timeline go?

Iris was frowning, discomfort showing on her features. She had defended his actions in changing things to the rest of the team, but was this a step too far? What did she think of him now? “Well, Bear, I think you’re just going to have to leave this be,” she said eventually. “It’s too late to change things.”

“I know. I just — I need to check on the others in Star, okay? Just so I know what’s been going on if we ever have to team up sometime.”

“Okay.” Iris let him go with a kiss, and then Barry was off running again, first to get his suit and then to Star City.

What was Team Arrow like without a Black Canary? What was Oliver like? He didn’t know too much about the other man’s relationship with Laurel, but they’d obviously been close judging by how affected he’d been at the funeral. What would Barry be like without one of his teammates? He couldn’t even imagine it.

He entered the cave and stopped, calling out to make sure the space wasn’t as empty as it appeared. “Hey, Ollie, you in? Really need to talk to — woah!”

Barry didn’t quite dodge out of the way of two arrows connected by a wire that shot out and pinned him to the wall behind him.

A young man, teenager really, with blonde hair and dark skin emerged from behind a support beam. He carried a bow and quiver of arrows and was grinning as he approached. “Gotta watch your surroundings better, Flash.”

“Connor,” said a familiar voice, the tone only slightly warning.

“I’m only messing, dad,” said the teenager to Oliver as the older man approached. Barry felt his mouth drop open. Since when did Oliver have a second son?

Oliver himself seemed different, somehow, in ways that were hard to define. The stubble he usually had could more accurately be called a goatee, and there were lines in his face that Barry could have sworn hadn’t been there. But he didn’t look as abjectly miserable as the last time Barry had seen him.

“What’s going on, Barry?”

He decided to just cut to the chase. “What do you know about Dinah Laurel Lance?”

Oliver’s face scrunched up. He frowned, though it was more in confusion than anything else. Then the worst possible answer left his lips.

“Who?”

[yrpspiritsintheshadows]

Night of Rest

“So, got any plans tonight?”

Eiji blinked, looking to Chase with a confused look. He raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah. I promised the boys we’d watch anime.” He grinned sheepishly. “Can’t do casework tonight, technically I’m still on “vacation”.”

“Ah, pity.” Chase leaned his head back. I

It was Eiji’s first day back at work since the whole incident with PROTEOME had begun. He had been hoping that he could get a small favor from the man.

He couldn’t blame his friend though. It had been an exhausting period of time and the boys still weren’t back in school yet. Eiji wanted to give them at least until their second therapy sessions before even broaching the idea.

“How are the kids holding up?”

Eiji took a bite of his food, a thoughtful look on his face.

“They’re still getting used to things. Hikaru is pretty timid still. He really has the worst of it. Hideki is coping as well as he can too.” He frowned. “I just want them happy. Gotta admit, I’m still not sure how well I’m handling this “dad to two teenagers” business when before the only milestones I was worrying about were lost teeth or if Ken drew on the wall.”

“I get ya. Didn’t think you’d be dealing with all that for at least another ten years?” 

He nodded, smiling a little.

“I don’t regret a single bit though. They’re great… They just need time to heal. I just hate that I can’t use up all my sick days to help Carmen out more with them.” 

“Yeah… Honestly, I’m glad for ya. Maybe we should do one big P.A.C.K vacation this year, eh?”

“Maybe… What are you gonna do tonight?”

Chase rubbed the back of his neck.

“I was gonna go for a free run off Reaper Road. Y’know, down by the pier?”

He nodded. He knew that area very well.

“Yep, that’s near where I go down to take the boys to therapy. You goin alone?”

“Probably. Lucian already said to not even dare ask this week.” He leaned his head back.

Eiji smirked, elbowing him.

“You ask Skyler?”

Chase stammered, elbowing him hard in return, his face going bright red.

“S-Shut up!” He hissed, his grey eyes looking around as if Skyler herself might be summoned by just her name. 

Eiji barked out a laugh, pointing at him.

“Y-Your face!” He gasped, throwing his head back. “AAAAHAHAHAHAHAHA!”

“EIJI I SWEAR TO THE DIVINE-”

“Mm-hm.” He raised an eyebrow, a grin on his face. “She’s single still.”

“She… come on, we work together.” Chase fumbled with his hands. “What’d she even see in me?”

Eiji gave him a look.

“Enough to trust your bb gun wielding butt to protect her while breaking my kid out of a lab.” He quipped. 

They were alone, eating together in Chase’s classroom. No one to overhear their conversations.

Chase shrugged.

“I… I just wanted to keep her safe.” He drummed his fingers on his desk, an unsure look coming to his eyes. “Eiji, I don’t wanna ruin that.”

“She’s off tonight. She’ll need decompressing after a day of stressful stuff.” Eiji took a sip of his water, giving him a smirk. “Just, ask her. She’d love to go for a run I bet. I sure as heck ain’t going any time soon. Lucian would probably find a way to film every time ya nearly slip on a pebble-”

“Hush!”

“And I’m not teaching that to Hideki or Hikaru unless they want to. And even then, I already got enough trouble with Ken trying to learn. So, why not go for a lone run with Sky?” Eiji crossed his arms.

Chase gave him a look.

“You really are gunning for this, aren’t you?”

“If it gets you doing more than being driven home by her after investigations? Yeah.” He smiled gently. “Come on, we’ve been friends for how long?”

“Eh, over ten years…”

“And you were my best man at my wedding. So, now it’s my turn.” He grinned. “Gimme your phone.”

“What? Eiji, no way in heck-!”

Chase’s phone was sitting on the desk near his hand. Eiji lunged forward as Chase moved to try to stop him. It didn’t take much for Eiji to swipe the phone and run to the opposite end of the classroom.

“HA!”

“EIJI!-” He lowered his voice. “Eiji, give me that right now-”

Eiji was already thumbing through Chase’s phone, sliding past lock screen rather easily.

“Dude, change your passcode. It’s still your mom’s birthday.” He remarked. “Aaand found. Let’s see. “Hey, Sky. I’m going out tonight at 6 PM for a run on Reaper. You wanna come?” He said aloud as he typed, dodging Chase as he lunged for the device.

He tossed it back to him after he was done, a wicked grin on his face.

“I hate you.” Chas moaned, lowering his head.

“Dude, I’ve been trying to get you two together for over ten years. Drastic times, drastic measures!” 

Chase muttered a little, jumping as a response appeared.

“Sure! I’d really love that. Maybe we can hit up someplace to get a bite to eat after too? I’m gonna need it. - Sky”

“... Sh-She said yes. Eiji, what do I do!?”

“Say it.” Eiji leaned against him. “SAY IT!”

“Okay, okay!” He yelped.

“I’ll see you then. It’s a date.”

Chase was dumbfounded, while Eiji let out a cheer, strolling back for the rest of his food.

“FINALLY!!!!” 

“I can’t believe you did that to me.” He groaned. “I… That just happened?”

“Sure did! You got a date Chase!”

“I got a date… with Sky…”

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!

oooooo

Skyler pulled up near a medical supply warehouse. 

She looked around carefully before hurrying across the lot. 

It had been a long time since she had come this way to start off a good run.

Chase was waiting for her by the fire escape, the breeze blowing his hair around a bit.

“Hey.” He smiled, giving a wave. 

“Hey yourself. Been waiting long?” She asked, already starting to climb up. 

He followed right after her.

“Nope, just waiting for you.” He quickly found a handhold, pulling himself up and off the platform along the grooves in the wall. 

Skyler smirked, going quiet, focusing on getting up to the roof. With practiced ease, they were soon looking down at the street below them.

“Man, I can’t remember the last time we even did this without the others.” Skyler brushed her bangs out of her eyes, giving a small sigh. “And these need to get trimmed.”

Chase rummaged through his pocket, offering a hair clip. She gave him a grin, taking it, pinning her bangs out of her face.

“Well?”

“Perfect.”

 He moved backwards to the edge of the roof. 

Skyler joined his side, giving him a playful look.

“Ready?” She asked, already bouncing in place, eager for a running start. 

Eager to forget how long the day really had been.

“Born ready. One…”

“Two…”

They bolted off across the rooftop, their shoes kicking up gravel as the edge rapidly approached.

They leaped off the roof, leaping across as they landed with a roll to the next one, laughter bubbling up as they got up, dusting themselves off.

“YES!” Skyler laughed, shaking the pebbles off of her jacket. “C’mon, let’s keep going!”

Chase hurried after her, doing a front flip when he was close enough, giving her a confident grin.

“Show off.” She leapt onto the edge, walking along it before pulling herself up onto the second level of this particular building. 

It was the Geistville public library below them… but they didn’t care.

His stomach did a flip as he watched her. The breeze was gentle, but one wrong step…

He shook his head of those thoughts, hurrying after her. 

They darted to the edge, throwing themselves across. 

Each time was as heart stopping as the first. 

Skyler slowed to a stop, catching her breath. They were on a roof with several large pipes running across the top and above them. It was a free runner’s dream but for now, she needed a break.

“You okay?”

“Mm-hm. Just a little tired.” She smiled, moving to the edge, sitting on it. Chase joined her side, looking over the downtown area with her.

The pier was farther out but the sea was still visible, fog rolling in over the water. The noise of the city surrounding them.

He truly couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. 

“Sooo, Mr. History teacher… Tell me…” Skyler grinned. “What’s the history of this building right here?”

He had to look around to remind himself of where they were before nodding.

“This, is actually one of the first dress shops built here in Geistville. It was run by Jenny Crafton and her descendants for years. Still is. It was built in 1919 and had more added to it when they revamped the apartments above the store.” Chase recited, his eyes closing for a moment. He could picture it, the seamstress in her shop, masterfully putting together a client’s order, her shop bustling with activity.

“You think she’s still around?” Skyler leaned back, gazing up at the sky. Somehow, the lights of the city never caused enough light pollution to dim the stars beyond view. “Weaving stars maybe instead of fabric.”

“Who knows?” Chase followed her gaze. “We’ve seen a lot of weird stuff… To think, this all started cause the weird kid decided to start a paranormal club in the old Dungeons and Dragons club room.”

She giggled.

“It really was crazy. Now look at us. We’re all making names for ourselves, still doing investigations… still making time for that game too.” She smirked. “When’s the next night, huh?”

“Probably not for a while… I like this though.” Chase smiled softly, gazing at her a little. “Just hanging out with you. No one else.”

She nodded, sliding her hand across the ledge as he covered it with his own. 

For a little while, they didn’t speak. They just gazed out onto the city, savoring the sights and sounds… and each other’s presence.

“How’s the teacher gig going?” She asked after a bit.

Chase groaned in frustration, throwing his head back.

“That bad?” Skyler tilted her head.

“They. Won’t. Stop. Asking for free running lessons.” He seethed. 

Skyler bit her lip, her shoulders shaking.

He gave her a flat look.

“Oh, you are terrible.”

“I am.” She giggled, before moving away from the ledge, helping him up. “C’mon, Mr. Armati. Teach me a lesson right here.”

“... Oh, you are terrible.” He repeated, laughing a little as they ran off, darting across the pipes as small echoes were created from their footsteps.

This… this is different than other times.

When was the last time we even hung out by ourselves with no one around?

… Has it really been that long?

Chase stopped her after they had hopped down, a gentle look in his eyes.

“Hey, Sky…? How often would you wanna do this? Just us. No Eiji, no Lucian and definitely no nephews?”

Skyler hummed in thought, giving him a look of warmth back.

“I’d say pretty often… Honestly, this is what I needed, Chase.” She frowned. “Work… it’s hard sometimes. I can’t tell people what I do, past the basics of social worker.”

“You give voices to those even the rest of the world can’t hear.” 

“Yeah… and it’s a little daunting sometimes.” She crossed her arms. “I’m not gonna lie… today was a hard day.”

“Sky…” He frowned, bringing an arm around her. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be.” She brought her arms around him, causing him to freeze up. Sure, it wasn’t the first time they hugged but… he couldn't remember truthfully the last time SHE had initiated it out of the blue. 

She’s… She’s hugging me. Oh my gosh she’s hugging me.

He brought his arms around her, tighter. 

“You’re really warm.” She mumbled, keeping close.

“Yeah, kind of how I run.” He rested his head atop hers. “Is this okay?”

She nodded, sighing in content. 

I can always trust this dork with everything.

We… We really need to do this more.

“S-So… how about that dinner, huh?” She chuckled a bit, pulling back after a moment.

Chase nodded, noting how red her cheeks had gotten.

“S-Sure. Where do you wanna go?”

“Hm… That place on Memento Lane? The one that has the really good curly fries?”

“Race ya!” He took off before she could have a chance to say anything.

She was surprised before laughing, chasing after him.

“Get back here you dork!!!”

“Gotta catch me first!”

Oh just you wait.

He turned back to her, giving a smirk.

Her heart fluttered a little as she kept up the pace.

I think I’m gonna be sticking with you for awhile Chase.

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