brokenpieces-72

[brokenpieces-72]

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TW: mentions of stalking, mentions of possible kidnapping, attempted kidnapping/hostage

You waited by the door, looking out the windows, checking for passing vehicles. Johnny noticed you'd started to wait by the door at the end of your shift, instead of outside. You kept brushing it off as nothing, but clearly something was bothering you. This was the seventh time though. When Johnny saw you checking outside, he came over to lead you to his car, his pack slung over his shoulder.

"Aye. Kid." Johnny said, checking the windows himself. No cars were passing, and most had already left. You looked over and walked up to Johnny, to follow behind him. Johnny noticed you'd been walking with him to the car oddly as well, keeping alert and almost hiding behind him.

"Ready?" You asked, taking a breath of relief.

"Is someone bothering you?" Johnny asked. You shrugged but Johnny just kept looking at you, eyes glancing up to the windows a couple of times. It was nothing, probably just your imagination.

"Just... don't tell mom okay? Cause then she'll start worrying, and then it'll be a whole thing." You said.

"Depends on what it is." Johnny told you. "If it's something worth concern then I'll tell your mom."

"Fine." You gave in. "The past few shifts there's this one car that seems to pass the store. I think it's a couple of cars actually, that's why it's not a big deal."

"At night?" Johnny asked.

"A couple times, but I think it was just to turn around. Other times it was in the evenings. They probably don't check the store hours properly." You reasoned. It was possible. Johnny wasn't convinced. Sure plenty of people came up and thought they could still get in, but they could be turned away easily enough.

"Anything else?"

"Well... I saw one of the drivers. I was on till and packing his items, and then was sent outside. When I got out there, I saw him leaving and he looked at me, and then he looked away. He was probably surprised to suddenly see me outside. It wasn't like he followed me around the parking lot."

"Yeah because you had the radio, and could call him out for harrassment." Johnny exclaimed. Your heart was starting to thump in your chest. You started to rethink everything, trying to find any other details that should have tipped you off. It was making you uncomfortable. It hadn't been just one customer. Your chest felt a little tight. You had another follow you when you didn't have the radio, and when you noticed, they turned and went to a different part of the lot. You figured they forgot where they'd parked their car. You were scratching your arms, protected by your hoodie. Another had lingered in an aisle while you were doing the closing. A couple of people had asked you about the hours when you were helping at the gas station.

"Hey. Hey." Johnny held your shoulders, seeing you worry. Shit had he taken it too far? "Deep breaths. Alright?"

Johnny saw you were starting to tear up. He needed to get you to the car, it would be safer and quieter. Thankfully, you could still walk, still holding some of your faculties. Johnny led you to his car, eyes open for anyone who might be lingering longer than they should. When you got in the car, you kept checking the window. Johnny got in and took a moment to talk to you before driving. He felt his own paranoia peeking out from where he'd shoved it down.

"It might be nothing." Johnny told you. "Been feeling it myself for a while, like I have someone watching me. "

"is someone watching me?" You asked quickly. Johnny wasn't sure. You were smart enough for stranger danger, and keeping personal information to yourself. It could be innocent stuff, it was multiple vehicles and the store had regulars, ones that you'd spoken to before.

"I'm not sure." Johnny admitted. "If this keeps happening though, you need to speak up. If you're inside, you tell a supervisor. If you're outside, go inside and tell someone, or use the radio. Alright?"

Without a word you nodded, taking his words as orders. Johnny told you he would be taking you to his place instead of your own. He didn't want to wake your mother, but he didn't want to leave you alone at your house, letting your thoughts run wild. If he caused your paranoia, he was going to deal with it. Johnny put the car in drive, and took a longer way back to his place.

Gaz was following them. He knew Johnny's address but suddenly he took a different turn than usual. Following was a little tricky when it came to a new route, since he had to take different turns keep Johnny from catching on. No other cars seemed to be following either of them. Good. That was the last thing he wanted.

You talked to your mom, Johnny nearby for support. Your uncle said it was probably nothing, just you being paranoid and it was all in your head. Your mother took it seriously though, even asking if you wanted to call in sick to work, explain to them that you didn't feel safe at work right now. A day off would be nice, but no. It could be nothing and it would be better to sit down with your bosses to tell them what was going on.

You sat down in the office, with two of your managers. They asked if Johnny's attendance was really necessary, but you insisted. Emotional support. He didn't tell them it was also because he felt responsible via association. If whoever was watching him, was watching you, he wanted to be ready.

"Is it the same person each time?" One of your managers asked.

"No. It's been a couple of different people. They get really close when they're talking to me, or they seem to be following me in the parking lot." You answered. The two managers were concerned, but they wanted to have all the facts and be sure before taking any big steps.

"What do they look like?" The other manager asked. Admittedly it's hard for you to pull exact descriptions. The moments were small, it was different people, and some of them you didn't see their faces.

"I can't recall. Usually caucasian. One had short black hair, another was wearing a face mask and have some graying hair." You continued your descriptions of them, explaining when and where it happened. Some were more defined than others. You admitted you weren't sure, and that it could be nothing. By the end your managers had a small, loose list that they could give to one of the security. They also asked if you wanted to go home for the day. Again, you said you wanted to stay. They let you leave the office, but Johnny stayed behind.

"Take ityou don't want to talk about the score last night." The other manager said.

No he wanted to tell her, that he was exmilitary, and had been recovering from amnesia for the past few months or so. Also there was a chance that he'd put you in danger becvause he too believed he was being watched, but seemingly only at his house, where he had a room full of new clippings and scribbled notes, trying to piece together his past. Oh yeah, and there's a good chance he had dreams about death and likely wasn't mentally stable.

"If y/n has another encounter like those... would it be possible to let me know?" He asked.

"Not really supposed to. It's more of a private matter for her." The first manager said. Johnny nodded in understanding.

"If Y/N needs some extra support and asks for you, we'll find you." The other manager assured him. "It's up to her."

"Thanks." Johnny said. "As for the score last night..."

Johnny brought you to the job site again. For a while everything seemed fine, no more random stopping cars or people seeming to follow you in the parking lot. The two of you boiled it down to coincidence. Johnny took you to the portable office to check in with Milena. You swore she hadn't changed clothes since the last time you saw her, wearing the same blue button up, and black pants. The matching blazer was resting on the back of her chair. When she looked up, she gave a small professional smile, talking to Johnny. The only time she talked to you, or rather about you was when Johnny brought you up. You were an afterthought, like remembering your coworker had a dog.

"I need to ask her a few questions." Milena said. Johnny nudged you when he noticed you were distracted. Milena wanted to talk to you? Oh shit were you in trouble? Did you get Johnny in trouble. Maybe she learned you were too young (you weren't but maybe she didn't want to risk liability).

"Did I do something?" You asked, your concern covering your face. Milena shook her head slightly, her smile turning a bit more friendly.

"No. I just need to have some information in case of an emergency and for your pay." Milena explained.

"Um..." you gave Johnny a quick glance. He gave a sort of half shrug and gestured to Milena. It was your turn for the routine. Nothing to be nervous about. Privacy policies exist for a reason. "Okay."

Johnny was asked to leave, and told you to come find him or someone else when you were done. You sat down in the fold up chair, while Milena finished typing. She gave you a form on a clipboard and a pen to fill out the general information. Name, birthday, contact info. You handed it back to her with a pleasant thank you. You got up and turned to leave when she stopped you.

"You forgot to fill out your address." She said, handing it back to you. Ever since the incidents you were cautioned to keep your address to yourself. You fidgeted with your hands.

"Um... Do I have too?" You asked, facing her directly. Milena straightened a little, withdrawing the clipboard ever so slightly.

"It won't be released to anyone else unless there is an emergency." Milena assured you. Still you hesitated. "If you're in the process of moving, it can be changed later."

"No, it's not that. We moved not that long ago actually. Uh..." You already told your managers, you may as well tell her. "It's complicated.''

"It doesn't leave this room." Milena said, setting the clipbaord down. She seemed interested, resting her arms down on the desk. Her head tilted ever so slightly with curiosity. For someone you had written off as reserved, she seemed very engaged.

"The past couple of weeks at my other job... it could be nothing, but I think a few customers were kind of odd. I think they were trying to follow me." You exclaimed. Milena's face went from curious to concern. "I'm not sure, it hasn't happened the past couple of days."

"Did you tell Mactavish about this?" She asked. You nodded. "What did he say about it?"

"To be cautious, and not give my address out." You said. Milena looked over the clipboard again, hovering her pen along the lines.

"You have an emergancy contact written down?" She asked, without looking up.

"I put Johnny, I hope that's okay." You said. Milena gave a silent nod.

"Just be sure to come and see me once you're sure everything is okay. If something happens we want to be able to get in touch with your family." Milena said, setting the clipboard down.

"I will. Do you need anything else?" You asked.

"No. That should be all." Milena said, still staring down at the desk. Her cellphone chimed, and she sighed.

"I'll head out then." You said, getting up. Milena gave a hafl hearted wave as she dialed her phone and put it to her ear.

Just before you stepped out you heard her say something along the lines of, "They're not done yet, I need more time."

As you stepped out a deliery driver stepped in, walking past you like you were an oversize door stop. Alright then. Little weird but whatever. Before spotting Johnny, you noticed the delivery. There was a guy standing nearby with a respirator over half of his face. He climbed into the back of the truck, raising the door. You noticed a lot of gas canisters inside. What were those for?

You heard yelling inside the portable. Shit. You reflexes kicked in and you went to the oppsite side of the portable, away from the job site and other workers. You could understand what was being said. It was too muffled and you were pretty sure it was Russian. Just in case, you took out your phone and took a photo of the truck, pressing against the side of the office. Something told you there might be a lawsuit coming or something like that. Couldn't hurt to take a pic of the truck, proof of delivery and all that. Once you had the photos, you went around the portable the long way, putting some distance between you and the situation.

You didn't show Johnny the photo. If Milena needed it, she would say something. You mentioned there had been an argument and delivery issue, but you weren't exactly sure.

"She's a busy woman. It 'appens." Johnny said. "She's probably fine, no doubt the others would give some asshole a piece of their mind."

You were satisfied with that. "By the way, I didn't ask you, but I figured it was okay. I put you down as my emergency contact."

Johnny looked at you and thought for a moment. "Alright."

"What?" You asked. "I could ask ehr to change it, I just figured it would be better than putting my mom or uncle. Mom has enough to deal with, and my uncle probably won't even pick up."

"Is fine." Johnny assured you. "Smart."

And the two of you left it at that.

"You're sure it was Konni Group?" Price asked again. Kyle sighed looking at the table with maps and lists and charts scattered around. Muscle memory led his hands to the edges of his tact vest, except there was none, so he settle for his hoodie pockets.

"They were careful. No positive IDs on any of them, no indication of affiliation, only that they kept looking around the parking lot. I couldn't stay in the lot for long before their own security asked what I was doing there." Kyle admitted. But come on, it had to be Konni Group. Who else would be watching Soap so closely? They needed proof it was Konni group though, otherwise they could go in half-assed, and have other groups on their asses. It could also be CIA or FBI, or even some stalkers.

"Does Soap suspect anything yet?" Ghost asked from the head of the table, arms folded.

"His fans? Possibly. Me? Well... he took a different route home one night " Kyle said.

The three men stood in silence, mulling over some options. Kyle wanted to just tell Soap everything and maybe get him to move. Then he would be safe while he recovered properly. Simon thought keeping Johnny in the dark was a bad plan. He needed to know his past, he needed to be back with them, where he belonged. To him, Johnny was a soldier and he needed to be one. More than once he'd seen Johnny sitting outside at night with his leg bouncing, or pacing in his living room. John, well, he was conflicted. On one hand he failed to save Soap, came too close to death. Soap deserved an easy rest. On the other hand, Soap was vital to the team and they were keeping him in the dark about everything, and forced to wait until Soap suddenly rediscovered himself. Even then there was no promise of him coming back. Price had built Johnny up into what he was, but that was when Soap was a soldier, a sniper and demo expert. Now Soap was Johnny. It was his choice to become Soap again.

"Right, in the mean time we focus on Konni group." Price said. "We have contacts to look out for as well. Let's not neglect them either."

More time passed, and you kept looking over your shoulder. Nothing. You started to let your guard down, as did Johnny. Something seemed to raise it back up for a split moment every now and then. Then you rationalized it as nothing more than circumstance. You'd get over it. You'd done self-defense classes before... not very many or recently but still.

You still had some nights of conspiracy at Johnny's place, more silly suggestions that seemed to lighten the gravity of the room. Other nights were spent at home, getting to lounge with your mom in front of the tv, usually when your uncle wasn't around. If he was, there was a game on, and you'd just sit and draw with your heaphones on. His cheers and shouting made you jump, but by now you were used to it. Any requests for him to quiet down were met with shooing gestures or his volume rising. Sometimes your mom would invite Johnny over to eat and stay to watch tv or to just chill in the living room. You liked seeing them get along. Your mom was happy with him around, and often asked about him. How was he, what is he up to, do you and him have anything planned?

Life seemed normal. A hint of wierd to it but it was normal for the most part. That's what it seemed like.

You were heading to Johnny's on foot with the rain pouring down. Your mom had to be out of town for a job interview, and you encouraged her to make it a small vacation for herself. Again, you were too young to be home by yourself for more than a couple of days and your uncles presence was never consistent. All you needed was a simple backpack as you had some clothes at Johnny's already.

As you walked a car passed by on the street. You recognized it. And the cap. You stopped for a moment to watch it go. Was he follo-no. You kept walking. Probably visiting a friend further in the neighbourhood or something. Carry on, don't worry about it. Everything is fine. You added a few skips to your stride, enjoying the peaceful pitter patter of the rain, pulling your hood down to let it soak your hair. Good day. It was a good day...

You were maybe two blocks away from Johnny's house when a car pulled up close to you, stopping maybe five feet away. You halted your stride. You couldn't make out a face in the tinted glass of the windshield but the maroon colour and size tipped you off. Everything seemed to slow down a bit, as the driver exited the vehicle. Your head kept telling you it was nothing, but you knew the car. You'd seen it before in the parking lot.

Options ran through your head as you crossed off each one. Scream? No your throat was too tight. Fight? As you saw more of the driver you knew it wasn't a good idea. Run home? He'd drive after you, and that was if he was following you. Smile and walk past? Yeah, easy target. Call the police? In front of him!?! The car door concealed his waist, you could see any weapons. Think fast, he's spotted you.

FUCK IT!

You broke into a run heading to the road and the opposite side of the car, towards Johnny's. You heard the man say something, but didn't listen. Your heart was pounding when you reached Johnny drive way. The driver was dangerously close, as you knocked on the door furiously. Johnny had the curtains closed, so he didn't see what was going on outside until he reached the door. Before he reached the door though, the driver reached you.

The driver was much larger and much more athletic, His arms grabbed you and attempted to pull you back away from the door. Panic hit hard as you struggled, thrashing and kicking like your life depended on it, which at the time, it did. The driver had put a rough hand over your mouth, attempting to reduce your alerts to Johnny. Dull nails dug into your cheek, as your tried to get your mouth on his hand. A car screeched to a stop behind you, but you barely heard it.

Just as Johnny opened the door and saw the scene, someone announced police, demanding the driver drop you. Johnny was quicker, punching your attacker in jaw, making him stumble. His grip loosened for only a second, which Johnny took full advantage of as he tore the driver's arms off of you, with a quick "come 'ere". Suddenly you were at his front door and behind him while he told you to go inside. The officer came up the drive way in that time, adding a stomp to the back of the driver leg, before pinning him to the ground.

The officer pulled out a cell and dialled 911 while Soap kicked the attacker in the side. "Sick fuck!"

"Sir, back off." The officer instructed. "Return inside."

Johnny went back inside quickly, and found you standing off to the side a couple of feet from the door, hugging yourself and tense. Yeah no fucking surprise there, you were probably in a mix of shock and a panic attack. You were staring at the door, the situation cropped out of the frame, only able to hear their grunts and harsh words, while your heavy breathing filled your ears. Johnny blocked your view and led you to his couch. "Sit down."

Your legs gave out under you, and you were caught by familiar cushions. Johnny got you through your panic attack, having you name things you could feel, smell, see and hear, while the officer dragged the driver away from the house and sat him on the curb.

"Can I touch ya?" Johnny asked. You nodded. "Take your coat off."

You did as he told you, and got your hoodie off too. Johnny reached out to your arms and you offered them. His hands were warm at least, so you didn't flinch away. He turned them over a little, checking for any marks or bruises. No doubt they would set in eventually, but for now they just felt sore. Your attacker had squeezed pretty tight, his large hand getting a good grip around your bicep when he grabbed you. Johnny told you to turn your head, to check your cheek. He winced at how deep the nails had gone into your skin. Any deeper or sharper, they would have broken skin. Johnny looked pissed, if it hadn't been for the officer you were pretty sure Johnny would give the driver the same treatment if not worse. Instead he got up and went to the kitchen retrieving a glass of water for you while he put the kettle on.

Soon enough, there were sirens and a couple cars pulled up. Johnny glanced outside, pulling the curtain back. The officer flagged the cars down, and spoke with the other cops. That's when Johnny had a moment to notice, that the officer who'd saved you, wasn't in uniform. Instead it was a blue hoodie and jeans. His vehicle wasn't a cop car, it was pedestrian. Johnny shoved his suspicions away for now. Another minute passed, and there was a knock at Johnny's door again. Johnny let the uniformed officer in and directed him to you.

"Are you the parent?" The officer asked.

"No." Johnny admitted. "Temporary guardian, her mother is out of town."

The officer then looked at you. "Would you prefer to have your mother present while we ask some questions?"

"Johnny's fine." You said in a small voice. The officer nodded and started to write down your statement. You did your best to answer his questions. You mentioned he might have been watching you for a while but you couldn't be sure.

"You're pretty fortunate that guy was driving by." The officer said once you finished. You looked up from picking at your fingers. Right, there was another outside.

You and Johnny shared a quick look. "Yeah... I am."

"He's still outside giving his statement if you want to talk to him." The officer offered. He gave both of you a nod and stepped out. Johnny told you to wait on the couch while he followed the officer outside. You remained sitting, pulling the blanket hanging on the back of the couch around your shoulders.

Johnny approached the man in the blue hoodie, who was getting soaked by the rain. He was talking to another couple of officers, too quiet to make out what they were saying. The man met Johnny's eyes, and faced him while the other cops dispersed. The driver was loaded into the car while Johnny looked the man over. Dark skin, light facial hair, blue hoodie, jeans, and his hood up.

"Thank you." Johnny said offering his hand to shake. "Johnny Mactavish."

The man looked a little stunned when Johnny introduced himself. Shit, he hadn't meant for this to happen, he only intended to help the kid. Fuck it. He returned the handshake, "Kyle Garrick."

"Got a light?"

"Smoking on the job Johnny?"

"Just blending in Lt."

Johnny blinked a few times. His head started to hurt again. Kyle noticed immediately. "You alright mate?"

"M'fine. Sorry." Johnny said quickly. "Who's the driver? He say anything?"

"Nah." Kyle said casually, watching the cop car drive off. "Probably just some creep. How's your kid?"

"Not mine. I'm looking after her." Johnny clarified. On one hand he didn't want to give anything away. He felt like he knew Kyle but couldn't place him. Kyle didn't remember him or he might be faking. Hell for all Johnny knew, Kyle had intended to make a move, but got interrupted. Regardless, Johnny wasn't sure who was the intended target. Best to keep things vague. "...Have we met?"

Kyle's calm expression looked like it had reset. Thing is, Kyle was only supposed to step in for emergencies. Interacting with Johnny was not part of the plan. The protocol was to take things casual, gauge how much Johnny might have recovered, and then dip. Kyle could remain calm, but this was complicated. If he told Johnny yes, then Kyle would be asked more questions. If Kyle tried to walk away or tell Johnny he isn't supposed to say more, no doubt Johnny would escalate. That was a given. Saying no, well if he did come back then that would be a very awkward restart to their work relationship. Fuck what was he supposed to say... fuck it.

"I've worked with a lot of people. Can't say if we have." He answered with a shrug. Definitely not a lie, but an equally vague response. "How is she?"

Johnny figured even a cop would keep his answers vague. Safety in secrecy. "Shaken."

"Understandable." Kyle said. He took out his phone. "I have to go. See you around."

And with that, the two parted ways like strangers.

When Johnny returned he went to get some pain meds, muttering to himself. You stayed on the couch, texting your mom to call you. No doubt she was going to come rushing back as soon as you told her. At least you weren't alone now.

"Should I call work?" You asked, looking over at Johnny. You saw him bracing himself against the kitchen sink. After you shrugged the blanket off, you went over to him, making small noises on your short path like bumping a chair and tapping the wall. Johnny had his eyes closed, like he was fighting a headache. You didn't touch him. You waited for him to change, or react. His jaw was clenched, and he was controlling his breathing. "Johnny?"

Another moment passed, and Johnny let out a small sigh, eyes opening and his body relaxing. After another sip of water, he noticed you were standing nearby. "That guy. I... I might know him."

"The one in the hoodie?" You asked. Johnny nodded standing up straight. "I've seen him around the neighbourhood a few times."

"He lives around here?" Johnny questioned. Could he have seen him in passing and nothing more? No, he'd had a moment of recollection. That was more.

"Just seen him driving." You said. You took a moment to think about it. How many civilians carried around cuffs? You saw him driving in the opposite direction as well. He could have looped around, but why? It was a little odd to call it coincidence. If he was someone watching Johnny, then did he know your attacker? "Maybe he's a cop. Like undercover."

"No cop car though." Johnny pointed out.

"I doubt undecover cops drive regular cop cars. Probably a ghost car."

"A what?"

"Ghost cars. They're essentially regular cars, but the inside has all the gear of a cop car." You explained. Great something else for Johnny to worry about. You carefully reached out and put a hand on Johnny's back. He was still a little tense. "What do you remember?"

"Short conversation... that guy, Kyle... shared a smoke."

"You smoke?"

"Rarely." Johnny said. You waited patiently for Johnny to process it all. "Your mom call yet?"

"No I-" As if on cue, your phone buzzed on the couch. You hurried over, and checked the caller. Not your mom. Your uncle. Great. "Uncle."

Johnny raised a brow as you answered. Your mom probably asked him to call you instead. He came over to listen to the conversation. "Hello? Uh... someone grabbed me on my way to Johnny's... The cops already came and arrested him... Yeah, I'm at Johnny's right now... No I'm fine. I already gave my statement... yes? ...I had Johnny with me, he's an adult... No he didn't say anything, I don't think he did... I wasn't paying attention..."

You went quiet at something your uncle said. You looked at Johnny for a moment, before replying. "No."

The call wrapped up, with your uncle saying you should have been more careful, or stayed home or something. Once the call ended, you just brushed it aside. There was one question that stuck in your head for a while.

"Did Johnny try to kill him?" You answered no.

"Fucking hell Gaz." Simon groaned.

"What was I supposed to do, let her get hurt?" Gaz argued, his head in his hands. He'd interacted with Johnny, and he had to tell his team. It meant he needed to avoid being spotted for a while.

"Soap would have taken care of it." Simon said. Price raised a hand to calm down the lieutenant.

"We don't know that." Price pointed out. "We know he has his instincts still intact. Fighting and hostage is another situation."

"He handled it." Gaz admitted.

"You made a judgement call sergeant. A risky one." Price said. Gaz may not be in the fire, but he was still simmering in the pan. "You gave nothing away?"

"He asked me if we had met, and I told him 'I work with a lot of people; can't say if I have,' and that was it." Kyle explained. Simon rolled his eyes. Kyle, the golden boy. Still being honest while incredibly vague.

"What about the attacker?" Price asked.

"I already gave the police Laswell's number." Kyle said.

"Right. Rest up." Price ordered. "We'll deal with the rest of this in the morning. No doubt Soap is gonna be on high alert now. It's time for the next step."

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[brokenpieces-72]

The dog.

That is all!

Behind the scenes of Call of duty: modern warfare I & II and Call of duty: modern warfare II live action teaser comercial

Part 5/?

[brokenpieces-72]

You know, GTA is one of those games where I’m like, there’s not gonna be much of a plot here, it’s not gonna give me like Ocean’s 11 type of story or anything, it’s gonna be drugs, car theft, money, and yelling. That’s all I’m gonna get, and as great as that is, there’s other games that will give me a more interesting plot.

And then this… I saw this…

I’m more committed to this relationship, than maybe any other relationship in a video game ever!

LUCIA and JASON in GRAND THEFT AUTO VI dev. Rockstar Games

[brokenpieces-72]

Hearts

Note: So this was originally going to be the request fill from a previous part, but I decided against it. I felt it drifted to far from the request. However I put a lot of time and effort into it, so I didn't want to just give it up.

Price had asked her to join them as a field medic. Fucking hell, the offer was nice but Bailey was no soldier. Right now she was at a First Aid station, prepping the soldiers to be taken back to the unit to be treated further. Once she got the bandages on, and the worst of the shrapnel out, they were loaded into a bus or chopper and sent off. All she could do was hope Tracker was taking on the majority of the cases. Anything to keep Borne's hands off of them.

Outside was shouting, gun fire and explosives. Bailey would scream at all of them to knock it off if she thought it would actually do anything to give her an easier time. No wonder there were only two people at the aid station, any more and they would be too big of a target. She finished her another patient, ordering for him to be loaded up. At the station she could do as thorough of a job as she would like, the most she could do was extend their life long enough for them to reach the MASH unit. After that, it was up to the surgeons.

Another blast shook the station, making her flinch. She looked toward the source, but it was too far to actually see what had done it. Yet another kid was laid down on her table. The patch was familiar, and she was seeing them more and more. Fucking hell, shouldn't they have their own medics? Bailey didn't care, she wasn't about to turn the kid away. He wasn't going to make it to the MASH unit without some extra work.

"Doctor, you don't have time, patch him up and send him out." The other medic instructed.

"If I put him on that chopper half assed, there will only be shit." Bailey argued. The medic didn't try to talk back, this was the third or fourth one she insisted on working more extensively on. If they made it out alive, the medic wasn't about to argue. "Did this guy hit a mine or bellyflop on a grenade?"

God there was so much blood. At this point she couldn't smell anything else but blood and blackpowder. The guy was trying to talk, but Bird-Eye kept telling him to shut up and grit his teeth. Ten minutes. She needed ten minutes to finish this. Someone yelled that the chopper was taking off and on it's way, and the bus had to move out because of...something. Bailey couldn't make it out over an increased amount of shouting. It didn't take long for her to realize why the chopper and buss had fled. The shouting was in Arabic. Bailey paused for only a moment before her patient groaned. Focus, finish this and it won't matter who's shouting.

"Doc... just go." The patient groaned, before grunting from a piece being removed. A big piece that needed to be patched. Shit shit, something must have been knicked, there was too much blood. The door to the station was forced open, and Bailey heard guns being pointed. The medic next to her had his hands raised, thankfully no wounded on his table. They shouted at both of them to get on their knees, while Bailey ignored them. Put a gun to her head, see if she cared she would save this guy.

"Doctor on your knees." The medic told her.

"Buy me dinner first." She called back ignoring the take over. AQ had broken in, and were taking over the station. One of them went over and grabbed for her, but she shrugged him off. As soon as she did they pointed their guns at her. Thank god she got the bleeding to stop.

"Point all you want, I need to finish." Bailey told them, staying calm. The one that had tried to pull her off just stared her down before ordering something in Arabic. He gestured for her to get on her knees. "Wait your turn or give me a menu."

They didn't like that answer.

Tracker was up to elbows in human. He was relieved by some of the work being quick and easy. Everytime someone came to the table he silently thanked his fellow bunk mate. Meanwhile Borne was badgering away, commenting that whatever extra work Bird Eye had done could have waited.

“Pipe down Borne.” Tracker told him.

“You can’t talk to me like that, I’m ranking surgeon.” Borne argued.

“And your mouth is just as rank.” Tracker muttered. “Hurry on home Bird.”

“Sirs!” The corporal hurried into the room, a mask held over his face. “We have a problem.”

“Don’t tell me. The Leafs lost again?” Tracker asked, the nurse across from him smirking.

“No sirs. It’s Bird Eye.” Echo said. Tracker went silent stopping what he was doing. “They’ve captured her.”

Tracker’s face went pale. Born took advantage of the silence of everyone. “Karma catching up with her mouth.”

“Can it!” Tracker barked at him. “Echo find the Captain and tell him, I need to finish up here.”

“Which captain?” Echo asked.

“The British one, the only other captain in camp! Go!” Tracker said. Echo hurried out before hurrying back in.

“Tell him that you need to finish or tell him Bird Eye is captured?”

“About Bird Eye! Shift it!” Tracker shouted, sending the young corporal into a sprint.

Alex, Price, Soap, Gaz and Ghost were outside, playing with a couple of the kids in camp. Johnny was showing them some football tricks with Kyle and Alex making a big deal of every goal the kids scored. Price and Ghost watched them, taking advantage of the shade.

“Never hurts to see what we’re fighting for.” Price commented.

“Not at all.” Ghost agreed.

“Laswell mentioned the unit locating the families, and one of their former nurses runs a shelter for the women and children in need of help.” Price said. Farah was trying to assist with the same but she was still confined to her bed. Getting a couple of young visitors herself.

“Sirs! Sirs!” Price and Ghost turned hearing the sound of a running footsteps and the cry of a young corporal. Echo skidded to a stop, winded from his hard sprinting.

“Corporal?” Price asked. He was in a state of worry, raising the captain’s concern.

“The first…the first aid station… Bird Eye…” Echo had to brace himself, Ghost getting him to sit down. “It’s Bird Eye…she was needed at the first aid station. And the station…was taken over.”

“By who corporal?” Price demanded.

“AQ.” Echo answered. Both men tensed and shared a look.

“Bird didn’t come back on the bus? You’re sure?” Ghost asked.

“Honest sirs.” Echo said, looking like a kid who just admitted to stealing a cookie.

“Where is the first aid station, are there maps?” Price asked.

“Y-yes sirs in the office.” Echo said.

“Get them, laid out and get a jeep ready.” Price ordered. Echo was off like a shot, and Price called his men away from the game. The three apologized to the kids for leaving, assuring them they’d be back. They recognized the captain’s tone. They had work to do.

Graves had just arrived, driving with one of the buses loaded with wounded. He was unceremoniously shoved in. At least he could keep some of his boys safe. He was fortunate himself to make it out alive. Imagine his heart rate when he saw the 141. Graves had stepped into the office and saw the men looking over a map of the area he’d come from. Before they could object to his presence he spoke up.

“If you need any of my men, they’re at your disposal, but a majority of them are needed in pre-op.” He explained. The men stared a little stunned by his presence.

“You were up there?” Alex asked. Graves shrugged.

“Not long enough.” He admitted. Echo hurried to him seeing his struggle to stay standing and giving him a chair. "Whatever you need, I do what I can."

"You're saving your own skin." Soap commented.

"My boys were up there, along with good medics from this unit. I'm getting them back one way or another." Graves argued. "I'd prefer them alive."

The five men stood debating it with silent looks. Echo stood next to Graves, awkwardly. "Couldn't hurt to have extra hands sirs. B-but that's just my opinion."

"Could use an extra gun." Kyle mentioned.

"Farah is still out of commission, I hate to admit it but Graves would have knowledge of the terrain over there." Alex added. Price stared at Graves, almost glaring at him. One downside, Graves wasn't exactly untouched. He would need some recovery time, which gave them a chance to come up with something, brief him, and take him along.

"You pull anything..." Price warned.

"Only the trigger on AQ." Graves said. Before Price could officially agree, Graves added, "I didn't get a good look, before being loaded on the bus, but they came from the North."

The team was silent as Echo left the room. Echo was pretty good at ducking out to avoid trouble, and Borne was going to be pissed. Tracker might want to come along as well. Price's men looked to him for orders.

"Fine." Price said biting back some pride. "Show us."

Graves dragged himself out of the chair to look over the map. Alex looked around and found some bits and pieces to mark the aid station on the map. Graves marked where the enemy had come from, more possibilties were narrowed down. They'd have to scout the area for survivors anyways, but having an understanding of the terrain was crucial in case Al-Qatala decided to come back and finish the job.

Captain Bailey groaned, her head throbbing. Patient. Was her patient okay? Bailey forced her senses back and looked around. The room was dark but she could make out some dim light. She hissed from pain, noticing her wrists were tied with coarse rope. Fuck, she could deal with that later. Right now, she was concerned about the people laying in rows in the room. There were a couple of men with weapons by the doors, with small windows letting a bit of light in. Bailey had been tucked in the corner, sitting against the wall. Her shoulder hurt though. Her leg too. Oh that's why, they had bandages... over her clothes which still had some blood stains from wounded. If some idiotic AQ medic thought this was a good idea, she was going to give him a full lecture on blood types and transfusions.

The patient. Where was the patient? Keeping her movement careful and slow, she got to her knees to check the man closest to her position. Could she be so lucky? Well she'd gotten captured, so debatable. It was hard to make out features, but it wasn't her last patient. Bird looked up to make sure the AQ guards weren't paying attention to her. Next one down the line. Nope, not hers. Same patch though. If her ex had actually brought his forces into her shitty paradise he was going to get a much harder lecture... or a good night depending on how this went.

There he is. Just conscious enough for her to get his attention. "Hey bud. You still with us?"

"Y...ye...."

"Good. Listen the hotel doesn't have our room ready yet, once housekeeping is done we'll get you checked in yeah?" Bailey said, taking a moment to glance around the room. Her throat was dry, head still pounding. Was her vision blurring or was the room starting to spin? The Shadow gave her a nod and she gave him a nod.

Someone shouted, and Bailey looked up. A guard had spotted her. She stood up slowly following the guards angry gestures. The only thing Bailey could do was hope a few of them understood English, and thankfully one was able to translate. Bird was ordered to face the wall, hearing some guns click. Bird shut her eyes.

Then there was a loud blast. A flashbang.

The six men made it out to the aid station a few hours later. A few of the doctors and nurses came with them, tending to any wounded that hadn't been captured. Graves was focused on helping his Shadows while the 141 secured the area. Tracker had come along, running up ahead to the first aid shelter, hoping his comrade might still be there. Alex followed close behind, and Tracker stopped at the door.

The tables were covered in blood stained clothes. Pieces of shrapnel and bits of bloody cotton littered the ground. Tracker rubbed his eyes whilke Alex went past him. Wasn't the first time he'd been to a place like this, but it didn't make the second or third time easier.

Alex crouched noticing some details. Tools had been scattered on one side of the room but not the other. There were some streaks in what little dust was one the ground. Someone had been dragged. On the messier end of the room, there was a blood stain on the floor. A hand print.

"Tracker." Alex said, getting Tracker's attention. He gestured to the handprint. Tracker went pale. Tracker looked at Alex who remained expressionless. Then Tracker left the station, needing air. A wave of emotion came over the Captain as he tried to brace himself, trying to rid himself of the worst case scenario. Captured. Echo said captured. He had to remember that.

Alex came out as the 141 closed in on the shelter. Alex spoke to Price directly and quietly. "No sign of the medics, but they were here. Dragged off."

"The 627 are loading up wounded and casualties." Kyle said, coming up next to Price. Alex looked deep in thought.

"Something on your mind Alex?" Price asked.

"Why not kill them? Take out two medics, eliminate the first aid station, get more ground." Alex questioned. Price picked up on what Alex was suggesting. Just in case.

"Sergeant." Price said. Soap looked up at attention. "Check their inventory, see what supplies they might have taken. Ghost go with him."

"I'll come." Tracker spoke up, dragging himself over to the two men. "I know what they would want."

Graves came over to Alex, Kyle and Price. "There's good news and then there's well... not sure what kind."

"Good news first." Alex said.

"Anyone wounded has a fighting chance, and they're being patched and loaded up to go back to the MASH. Casualties are being taken back so their families can be informed. A low number considering how long they were out here with their injuries." Graves reported.

"The other news?" Kyle asked.

"The numbers are small. There were still wounded when I left, and not enough of them have been loaded up." Graves explained. Price didn't need clarification. AQ had taken hostages.

"What's the difference?" Alex asked. Graves shrugged.

"Estimate maybe... 10-15 shadows. Plus however many ULF." Graves said, just as Tracker, Ghost and Soap returned to the group. "The upside is they're likely still alive, but if they don't have proper doctors or supplies then it's another story."

"They have supplies, they nearly cleared everything out." Tracker said. "And they have Bird Eye, so a doctor won't be a problem."

"Bird was here?" Graves asked. That peaked some interest in all of them. Tracker nodded in confirmation. Graves shoved the notion aside, acting as if the question had never been asked. Honestly Price didn't care about his personal problems anyways.

The tracks were still visible, they had their target. They needed to move and fast. Something else was going on, but none of them wanted to think of what they might do to her.

In the jeep Graves was with Kyle, Alex and Price. Soap and Ghost were in the other vehicle, comms remaining open. Alex decided to address the elephant in the room. “You know this doctor?”

Graves honestly wanted to ignore Alex. “Had an occasion to run into her.”

“More than once?” Kyle asked from the front seat.

“…something like that.” Graves said. Neither Alex nor Kyle believed it was just that. Price turned and led the jeeps down another road, listening in. Alex looked to the commander, brow raised.

“You and Farah? Anything there?” Graves asked. Alex took that as a sign. He didn’t need to be a profiler to pick up on Graves relationship with Bird. Nor did Kyle.

Bird sat down, exhausted now. God they were giving her everything. Right now she would take anything to go back to the swamp. At least she could rest. Another of her captors came in and she requested another minute.

“You speak English?” She asked. The captor nodded. “Thank god. Could do without more shouting from your cheerleading buddies. Do me a favour, tell them to piss off.”

The man urged her to get back up and come with him. Bailey complied.

Soap exited the vehicle with Ghost. The two of them were counting ahead, while the other four stayed back.

“Keep up Soap.” Ghost told him. A small settlement was nearby, and plenty of guys with guns. Ghost set of his gun, watching them through his scope, while Soap watched with binoculars.

“See anything?” Soap asked. Not much. It could simply be an outpost, a large checkpoint, anything. They needed more signs. There were some vehicles, that looks like they’d been shot at, but still nothing definitive. If it weren’t for the weapons they would seem like regular civilians.

“Ghost, sit rep.” Price radioed.

“Estimate about 10 men, no patrol, more inside the buildings. Two battle worn vehicles, only half of them arm visibly armed.” Ghost reported.

“Any sign of the captives?” Price asked.

One of the doors opened, and another unarmed civilian stepped out. Something wasn’t right. There was more to do this. The vehicles were damaged but vehicles at the war zone were in a far worse state. “There’s two larger buildings, could be holding them there.”

“Ghost.” Soap said, getting the lieutenants attention. “South East Building.”

Ghost turned his attention to the second largest building. A woman stepped out with a man escorting her. There was a child in her arms. Couldn’t be more than a few months old. “Price we got something.”

“Send traffic.”

“Mother just existed the south east building, new born, couldn’t be more than a few months.” Ghost reported.

“Not first time kids have been dragged into conflict.” Graves radioed.

“She exited with a male, a medic likely from the aid station.” Ghost reported.

The four men shared a look from where they waited. What the fuck?

“Do you think…” Kyle started.

“They took the supplies, and two medical professionals.” Price said. Graves picked up on what was being suggested.

“So my men are hostages?” Graves questioned.

“That’s the odd part.” Alex said. “How much medical training do they have?”

“Basic first aid training, enough to recover their brothers off the field.” Graves said.

“What are your orders sir?” Soap radioed. Price looked between his men before radioing Soap and Ghost. “Sit tight, we’re on our way, weapons down, do not engage.”

“Copy.”

Price took the initiative with Alex to approach the settlement. Price raised his hands Alex, following his leads. The civilians pointed their weapons in a panic, seeing two armed men. Price explained his side of the situation, that there were four more men past the tree line, ready to fire if the men didn’t comply.

Another man came out of the building and approached Price. “We have 10 of your men, they are unharmed. They won’t be if you don’t leave us alone.”

These people weren’t AQ. They couldn’t be, AQ would have fired on them by now. “Please sirs, we need them.”

“We’re not here to do harm unless we have to. Let them go.” Alex said.

“We can’t we need them.” The man said. Then the first aider stepped out seeing Price and Alex. He went to the man and spoke to him in Arabic. Price and Alex waited, guns still trained on them.

“Captain Price?” The medic asked. Price nodded. “Captain Bird is inside, everyone is safe.”

The medic spoke to the man who ordered his men to stand down. “We could use some more hands.”

Price and Alex looked at each other. “What exactly is going on?”

The rest of the men were called over and the men were brought inside. They weren’t sure whether to be concerned or amazed. In the building was a small clinic, patients laid on the floor and a few shadows trying to help their wounds. Some Shadows were laying on the floor, their wounds too great for them to move yet.

The first aider did their best to explain but kept being called away to help with a patient. The general gist was that all of them had been taken from the first aid station to assist with patients. The medical supplies were to aid wounded and sick Urzikstan civilians. AQ had been attacking but they were eliminated. Unfortunately, the people here had some issues with outsiders, and trust was a problem.

Graves scanned the large room noticing some curtains in the back. They’d seen mothers earlier, likely where they were resting. Graves knew he was already gonna be in shit for his Shadow’s actions. Price could hear Major Borne throwing a tantrum about giving aid and with stolen supplies no less. He could also hear Laswell reminding him the risks of the situation he was seeing.

Once the medic finished with a patient, he returned to the group. “I understand the risks captain, but these people needed our help.”

“You’re right they do.” Price said before turning back to his own men. “How do we help?”

“You’ll have to ask Captain Bird she’s taken charge of the operation.” The medic explained.

“Where is she?” Graves asked.

“Other building, she’s been tending to the mothers.”

Graves wasted no more time, with Soap and Price following. Alex, Ghost and Kyle got prepped by the medic, given instructions and gloves. Soap wanted to see what Graves was so worked up about, and Price wanted to keep Graves and Soap out of trouble. And Price was concerned about Bird. The building next door was practically empty. Surgical table with creates and make shift cabinets. There was a curtain and some shuffling sounds.

“Bird?” Graves called.

“What are you so-“ Soap started before Graves pulled back the curtain to find Bird sleeping on a cot. Her green jacket was laid over her, her shoulder was visible, along with the bandage. She looked so worn out and exhausted for half a second Soap thought she was dead.

Graves checked her pulse, to be sure. “Bird? Bird wake up.”

“Mmh… was having a good dream…” Bird said slowly opening her eyes. Once she saw the man waking her she scowled. “Never mind I’ve entered a nightmare.”

“Very funny.” Graves said rolling his eyes. Bird sat up and Graves turned away immediately while Soap leaned over to see Bird’s surprisingly healthy body. Even with the bullet wounds. Bird gave Soap a friendly smile, not worrying about decency. She was a doctor, she wasn’t that bothered. Meanwhile Graves was trying to get him to look away. Now it was Bailey’s turn to roll her eyes as she stood up, pulling her shirt back on over her sport bra.

“Phil, he’s allowed to look.” She said, pulling her boots back on. “You’ve lost your table, I can give it to whatever guest I choose.”

“Bailey.” Graves said, pinching the bridge of his nose. Soap turned back around to look at Graves. What the heck did that mean?

“I mean if you want a shower, you might be able to join.” Bailey said, lacing her boots. “Sound okay with you Soap, or do you prefer the boogie man under your bunk?”

Soap went red in the face as Graves turned to give Bailey a look. Soap cleared his throat looking away and to the door. Of fucking course Price was standing in the door way, arms folded. Soap had never felt his face heat up this much. Was he having a heatstroke? Unable to meet his captain’s eyes Soap looked at the floor. As Bird got up and passed Graves and Soap she gave the Captain a charming smile and a pat on the arm. “You’re welcome to watch.”

That caught Price off guard. The three men shared a look with each other try to find out what just transpired. Okay no, focus on the Captain, or her work, helping, yep.

The men did everything they could, Bird giving them orders, Graves listening to every word. The shadows did their best. It was a lot of work, no wonder Bird had taken a nap. They were all exhausted by the end of it and Bird even had the chance to deliver a new born. Bird knew she would probably be in a lot of shit but fuck it.

Kyle came over and got her to sit down, give her some more medical treatment for her wounds. Now it was her turn for juice and cookies. Graves stayed in the room, wanting to keep an eye on Bird.

“So… what’s the story?” Kyle asked Bird, pretending Graves wasn’t in the room. Bird smiled sweetly, the way Graves used to miss. Kyle noticed her wrists were bruised. Not from hands at least.

“We were close.” Bailey said. “Careful with that stitch, the needles here are more leather than skin.”

“Why did they shoot you?” Graves asked.

“They were scared and one of them has an itchy finger. These people struggle with trust, the mothers have bastards, and some of them were forced into AQ.” Bailey explained gritting her teeth.

Kyle finished before looking up at Dr. Bailey. “You want some provacy with him or…?”

“Why you want to watch? There’s no popcorn.” Bailey said.

“Leaving.” Kyle said getting up while Graves sighed, dropping his head. Before Graves could say anything he was interrupted by Kyle remembering to close the door.

“Why are you look this?” Graves asked.

“Still haven’t found the solution?” Bailey teased. “Can’t help it, I’m part of the crazy generation, I was born a smart ass, and come from a long line of smart asses. It’s a wonder that donkeys don’t find me attractive. Then again.”

“Bird.” Graves said still leaning against the wall. “I’m serious.”

“You always are.” Bailey said. “It’s why we didn’t work.”

“That’s not the reason.”

“Then let me remind you what the reason was.” Bailey said standing up and limping over to the commander. “You wanted something, and I wanted something and we weren’t each others somethings.”

“Yet you came to Urzikstan.” Graves pointed out. As if Bird would give him the upper hand.

“I’ve been here longer than you, and working here on people. Saving lives and bringing new ones into the world all while being a pain in the ass to those who stop me.” Bailey said, lifting her nose. Graves would never understand how he could be taller than her and yet she could still stand over him. Graves stood up straight, matching her folded arms.

“Protecting people isn’t something you wanted?” Graves asked. Bailey sighed. Graves knew the reason, but it was something he believed in. Bailey held his arms. Graves remembered a pleasant night with her, when she did the same thing.

“Phil Graves… You’re a horse lover, not an ass lover.” Bailey told him. Phillip sighed laughing a little. Bailey smiled, knowing that would break his serious face. “I also don’t need you getting yourself killed by pissing off the Brit’s, one revolution is fine, we don’t need another.”

“It was work.” Phil said. “Business.”

Bailey smacked his cheek, just as Soap stepped in to check on them. Soap stopped dead in his tracks as Bailey smiled and leaned against Graves.

“Did you want to join in or spectate?” She asked. “Title fight after all.”

“The medic be needin ya Doc.” Soap said, looking at Graves who was looking the other way.

“I’ll be right there.” She told him. Soap shut the door, going straight to telling Ghost. Bailey pulled Graves face back over, to look at her. “You get your allies and enemies straight. Last thing you need is to be in the shower with your blood down the drain.”

Before Graves could argue, Bailey kissed him on the cheek and walked out. Graves watched her go, and shut the door behind her.

Taglist: @yourlovely-moon @kaoyamamegami @h0n3y-l3m0n05 @sans-chara @0wosugarmommymedic0wo @smitten-haematite-quartz @talia-the-gemini @yuki2129 @whitetiger846 @graystorm444 @chibiduck @reaperxxxxzz @danielle143 @sobbingnshtting @cringeycookies @cryingpages @dcnocap207 @reaper-chan666 @bestbookfriends @thriving-n-jiving @cutiecusp @shikigami-the-paper-spirit @lolyouranelf @theotheronedotorg

[brokenpieces-72]

Drew Zeff from @obsidian-lantern with the Sea Emperor from Subnautica. Might colour later.

Taglist: @yourlovely-moon @kaoyamamegami @h0n3y-l3m0n05 @sans-chara @0wosugarmommymedic0wo @smitten-haematite-quartz @talia-the-gemini @yuki2129 @whitetiger846 @graystorm444 @chibiduck @reaperxxxxzz @danielle143 @sobbingnshtting @cringeycookies @cryingpages @dcnocap207 @reaper-chan666 @bestbookfriends @thriving-n-jiving @cutiecusp @shikigami-the-paper-spirit @lolyouranelf @theotheronedotorg

[brokenpieces-72]

Storms Brewing

New Neighbours | Navigation

amnesiac johnny mactavish x reader

TW: Mentions of character death

Price and Laswell stood behind the observation window outside Johnny’s hospital room. Johnny was laying there with a breathing mask and a steady heart monitor. Price’s eyes kept returning to Johnny’s scar on his forehead like it was a target in a sniper scope. While Laswell explained the next steps for the sergeant, Price couldn’t stop thinking how much would change. Not just his team, but Johnny.

A new life, a civilian one. Putting him back in the field wasn't safe. The damage had been done and Makarov was to blame for taking one of his best soldiers from him. Knowing that Johnny wouldn’t be returning to the 141 was a hard pill to swallow. Once Laswell finished her briefing, the captain not meeting her gaze a single time, she sighed.

Kate set aside the tablet staring at the man she had shaken hands with and joked with over comms only a few days ago. There was too much danger trying to put Johnny back in the field right away. He would be monitored while living his normal life, but she knew for John, it was like losing a son, a good friend. Johnny had died to save John, and millions of people too. He would never know that.

“Don’t go blaming yourself John, none of this was your fault.” Laswell told him.

“I’m not blaming anyone except Makarov. He pulled the trigger.” Price clarified.

Price stood some distance from Johnny’s new home. How much his life had changed. It was good to know he was doing well. According to Simon the instincts were still there, but that was to be expected. He watched as once again, Johnny left the house, but this time there was a newcomer. Kyle had taken notice of them during one of his check ins. Ever since the kid had been tagging along with Johnny, sometimes even staying the night. Johnny was strict with her but he wasn’t unfriendly, and the kid didn’t shirk work. As the two came out of the house, Price almost couldn’t believe how much Johnny had changed. Still wearing shirts and jeans, but no Mohawk in sight. One word and he had the kid hurrying to the car to climb in while he ducked back in to retrieve something and came back out. Was that still the recruit he’d assessed all those years ago? The same sergeant who was ready to blow a hole through Makarov’s skull in a helicopter?

Johnny got into the vehicle and pulled out of the driveway. Price waited a while before wandering back to his own vehicle. It was a bit of a walk, since ther wasn’t a very good place for him to park without catching someone’s attention. Before he got very far, another car pulled up on to Johnny’s driveway. An older man around Price’s age came out and rang the bell. No answer of course. Then he knocked on the door. And then again. Then he started raising his voice. John’s interest was piqued so he approached.

“MacTavish you in there? Need to talk to you. Come on just open the door, I need to see my niece. Y/N?” The man called to the vacant house.

“Problem sir?” Price asked, making the man turn around. There was no signs or reports of Johnny getting into trouble. Johnny didn’t leave the house very often and there hadn’t been any confrontations with anyone.

“And you are?” The man asked.

“A friend of the resident.” John answered. The man was about to ask where Johnny was, but John cut him off. “He just left.”

“You know when they’d be back?” The man asked. A few observation John made about the man before him. First he was expecting his niece in the house, which meant he was related to the teenager who had hurried off with Johnny. Next, he was wincing a little despite the sky being cloudy. His tired voice told John, the man was likely coming back from a hangover.

“Couldn’t say.” Price responded, folding his arms and shrugging his shoulders. The man sighed and shuffled past Price. Price turned intending the leave the man without any more interaction. Shame, could have been a lovely conversation. He was stopped.

“You wouldn’t happen to have his number would ya?” The man asked half way in his car. Why not just call his niece, surely she owned a cellphone?

“Mind if I ask why?” Price replied. Not that he was going to give it up, it would blow his cover and identity too soon.

“My niece can be difficult sometimes. She has some work to help me with today and probably went off with your friend to get out of it.” The man exclaimed.

“Afraid I can’t.” Price said shrugging. The man grumbled somewhat flippant about the answer, before shutting the car door and driving off. Oh boy, what had Johnny gotten himself into? Price was proud of him, for trying to help the kid. The uncle seemed to be a difficult man, he just hoped it wouldn’t escalate.

Your phone rang. It was your uncle but before you could answer Johnny had his hand out.

“It’s not mom.” You told him. Your mom had gone away on a small trip, a friend having called her for a bit of light work. It was at least something to add to her resume. Before hand you’d gotten her complete permission to stay with Johnny. Wouldn’t stop your uncle from using you as a little errand runner. By now Johnny had seen the texts and heard the phone calls. This was the first time he’d be answering. His hand opened and closed indicating he didn’t care who it was.

You gave in and handed him the phone. He pulled over to answer it. “Hello.”

“Kid you better be home in the next hour or-“

“Holy shit, is my voice that bad?” Johnny asked, looking at you.

“MacTavish? What are you doing with y/n’s phone?” The uncle asked, astonished.

“Well she’s currently running around a construction site with no protection so I figured ya wouldna wanner phone damaged.” Johnny said sarcastically. You giggled at that.

“She has work to do. I can send her the list if you’re passing a grocery stor-“

“Not happening. We have work to do today and this client has our schedule pretty full. Don’t worry we’ll be back in time for dinner. Y/n will text ya when we head back.” And without another word he hung up. You smiled at him and took your phone back. Johnny got back on the road and you sat back, scrolling on your cell.

“How long is this work?” You asked, breaking the silence.

“They want help with getting the framework of a housing unit set up. Don’t worry there will be work for you.” Johnny said, ruffling your hair. You swatted at his arm playfully.

As Johnny kept driving he started to think more about you. There were still nightmares and you had been present for some. He told you more about his own past, even showed you the conspiracy room. Now it was a small private past time discussion. Even after all that, even after pinning you down in a panic after waking from a fit you still stayed. Your mom was sweet too, coming by with baked goods for Johnny from time to time or to offer some help around the house. Johnny had a good life.

Despite it all, something was still eating him. The past was unknown and it raised too many questions. At the very least he knew he’d been a soldier and still carried the mindset. As for what he did, it was still unclear. What had gotten him shot in the head? An execution, a good shot, or a lucky sniper? Why didn’t anyone tell him? Johnny mulled it over whenever you didn’t notice. It was almost an hour or so drive to the location so it would be a lot of thinking. At least you had something to keep you occupied. Johnny mainly had his thoughts.

"What's wrong?" You asked. Johnny was pulled out of his trance. You noticed he was wincing slightly. Like he was trying to get something out of his head, like some awkward memory.

"Just thinking." He said.

"...is that why it's smokey in here?" You teased. Johnny gave you a soft punch to the arm, making you laugh. He seemed to forget the questions in his head for a bit after that.

Johnny found you when the day was done. You’d done as much as you could with what they could give you. Danger and age don’t go too well with construction, but the skills the others workers had taught you would prove valauble for the future. He didn't say it but it was part of why Johnny invited you. You'd expressed interest in building and creating, so maybe the trades would be a good place to make money. It didn’t stop you from helping when you could. A few of the other workers commented that Johnny had a good daughter. That was a little awkward, but you appreciated the compliment.

Johnny found you sitting outside the small portable office of the contractor. The way she ran things was pretty simple, coming and going and collecting pay hand to hand. He knocked on the door before hearing a muffled, “come in”.

Johnny ushered you inside and you see the familiar employer. Fair faced with sharp eyes, short black hair, buttoned shirt and a Russian accent. Nice enough lady but she made you uneasy sometimes.

“Here for your pay?” She asked Johnny and then noticed you. You get the sense she isn’t fond of you. When you walk in, she acknowledges you politely enough. With Johnny there's a bit more friendliness, a how are you added to the hello. Her face seems to light up slightly when Johnny appears, and then it vanishes the moment you come up next to him. It’s not something you’ve discussed with her about, though you've mentioned it to Johnny. Johnny concluded it was because you were younger, being taken on with some reluctance.

“We are.” Johnny said. The woman looked at you again, but her face was different. It wasn't the usual, calm, "ah, yes" type of expression. Her brow shfited for a moment, as if her interest had been piqued. It was brief, and you were probably the only one who caught it. The woman returned her papers, sorting through them. Unfortunately, she seemed to be struggling. Sometimes she ran out of copies of the forms that needed to be signed.

“My apologies MacTavish, I haven’t had a chance to make more copies.” She said, sounding a little stressed.

“Donnae worry bout it.” Johnny assured her.

“I have your address, I can bring them around when I have a chance.” She offered.

“Works for me.” Johnny said shrugging. You stood there awkwardly, not sure wehether to speak up or let the awkward small talk continue. They chatted for a bit, as he made sure she did in fact have the right address and information. He also made sure your information was on there too. You noticed the employer seemed to keep glancing at Johnny while you waited off to the side. The woman didn’t smile very often but she did with Johnny. Your mind put two and two together a bit ago, but this was plugging it into the calculator.

“Need anything else?” Johnny offered, straightening.

“No that’s fine. Have a good night.”

“You can just call me Johnny.” Johnny said, and led you back outside. You looked back at the employer for a moment, seeing the tale end of her looking away from the two of you. Despite her blank expression, her shoulders seemed tense, her eyes flicked over for a split second before you faced forward again, pretending not to notice.

As soon as the door shut to the portable, Milena wanted throw the fold up chair. Keeping her composure around that bastard set her teeth on edge. For fucks sake, if it weren’t for the brat being present she might have stabbed him the throat with her pen. How the fuck was he alive, she didn’t know and didn’t care. She would have his head, and present it to Makarov as a trophy.

Playing the part of friendly contractor was easy enough but not around someone she hated. Not only did she know where he lived but now she could see what it looked like on the inside. It wouldn’t be much but it was still an option. She’s also finished writing up a contract for Johnny to sign which would ensure some sweet karma.

If the kid was collateral so be it.

You finished calling your mom as the wind whipped up outside. It made you a little tense. Your uncle was still at the house and you half hoped he didn’t bother with preparations for tonight. Johnny didn’t like you being alone with your uncle, and with the storm coming he didn’t want to risk anything. You and Johnny had made some pizza and taken it downstairs to the basement.

“Your mom is safe?” Johnny asked.

“Yep.” You sat next to him on the couch, with both of you in your own blankets. A hurricane was supposed to hit. There were plenty of snacks and tonight was for you and Johnny alone. You’d had a few of these nights, where you helped him with cooking, and sometimes making snacks. The tv was on and you sat back on the couch, relaxing. Your uncle had plans outside of town, Johnny was fine looking after you.

The wind was a howling pack of wolves, with rumbling boulders overhead. It did start to alarm you, making you look to the window from time to time. When the flashes were followed close by the thunder Johnny gave you a strict order to stay downstairs. There would be some damage to his house but he could handle that. Damage to you was another story. He didn't want to worry about that.

Johnny noticed you tensing and going very quiet. You did that when you tried to keep a brave face. Another flash and you were sitting up straight instead of sinking into the couch. Johnny leaned over to put his hand on your shoulder, making you flinch.

“Aye, you’re fine. The hurricane won’t get us down ere.” He told you. Then there was thunder and it was very loud, making you yelp in surprise. Johnny doesn’t bother to ask before pulling you close. You don’t hesitate to cling to him, while Johnny sighed. A little childish, but you didn’t always have the help you needed.

“Is okay.” He assured you. You ended up laying on his chest while he continued watching the tv. He had to fidget a little, feel some discomfort in his shoulder. The storm was pretty bad already. He was waiting for the power to go out. The rain always brought back some soreness in his shoulder where a scar was. You suggested it was from a mission where it rained. Johnny could recall being shot but not the why or the who.

You were shaking and Johnny wrapped his arms around you. “I gotcha…I gotcha.”

“I know. I know.” You muttered. Then the power went out. You sat up but Johnny told you not to worry, and left the room to go to the circuit breaker. It was pretty dark, the late hour and the cloudy skies leaving little light for you to make out anything. You were on the couch by yourself. Johnny had vanished into the darkness of the room.

Johnny could still hear you, even with the loud storm outside. You were making some noises like whimpers and he was still trying to find the right switch. There was a loud crash and a scream, and Johnny rushed back to the couch seeing nothing but a pile of trembling blankets. Nothing was broken, no damage to anything, only rain beating against the window. Johnny sighed quietly, coming over to the sofa.

“Gonna pick ya up.” He said, hearing no protests. He carried you in the blankets to your bed, but you don’t let go. Johnny knows what you want, and he’s uneasy about the idea. Not only is he older but the last time you tried to wake him from a nightmare he nearly choked you out. Honestly, he doesn’t want to be alone tonight either. You’d be safer in the same room. Johnny pried you off, and gave in to your silent request.

Johnny laid in bed while you remained curled up next to him. Damn he’d gotten attached. So attached your uncle had been trying to imply that he was sweet on your mom. Your mom wasn’t Johnny’s type though. Your uncle had tried to imply other things, but Johnny just shrugged it off.

As he stared at the ceiling, hands under his head, you whispered some more ideas for the wall. They were joke ideas, like him being a part of Area 51, or having his memory wiped so he couldn’t reveal government secrets, etc.

“Maybe that’s why you keep thinking someone is watching you.” You suggested. It wasn’t in the over enthusiastic or joking tone you usually gave. Johnny turned his head to you. “I didn’t tell you cause I was worried you’d want me to stay away… but my uncle mentioned a friend came by to your place when he was looking for me.”

Johnny sat up a bit, more alert. Someone had come by? That was maybe a week ago. He’d boiled it down to paranoia, intending to go to his therapist and discuss getting some medication to help.

Steamin Jesus, he wanted a normal life, one that didn’t have him second guessing everything. He wanted answers, and there were people who could give them to him. Another rumble of thunder overhead and you shuddered. Johnny reminded you the hurricane wasn’t going to get you. You were safe. He wasn’t going to let his watchers hurt you either but he didn’t mention it. Instead he tells you to try and sleep. He would need your help with the damages tomorrow.

“Come y/n. Time for bed.”

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[brokenpieces-72]

angst one shot of gotham knights dick grayson with twin reader of damian? reader was away for training and visited gotham after bruce's death, they're not taking his death well and dick tries to comfort them but they get mad at him. they say he doesn't understand what it's like bc he knew bruce the longest and out of all the kids reader spent the smallest time with bruce. on the other hand dick mostly got a cold, silent bruce while in the moments bruce and reader spent together bruce actually opened up to them.

A little more complicated… but yeah I’m down for this, I need to think of a concept for the twin but I like the challenge. Certainly an interesting concept. Apologies for this taking so long, lots came up that made it hard to feel motivated. Hope you enjoy.

Lost

TW: mentions of death, grief, loss, anger, violence outbursts, let me know if I missed any.

When you returned to Gotham… well… imagine… honestly it’s not something easily described or compared. Bruce hadn’t been around you for long, and the news he had another biological child kind of threw him. You didn’t intend to stay with him, merely wanted him to know of your existence. You figured he’d want you out, he already had Damien and almost a dozen other children, you felt unnecessary.

Bruce made you feel more than necessary. Learning about your situation, where you were living, what you did working for the league of assassins, never forcing you to do anything that you didn’t like, offering safe house locations if you needed space of your own, and even providing you with his contact information if you needed to get a hold of him. Bruce wasn’t afraid to talk to you, tell you about his own life. For once in your whole life, you had someone to look up to, someone who was willing to raise you better, someone who could look past your flaws and bring out the person you were meant to be.

Now he was gone.

You’d left for training, simple combat stuff that you’d been taught already but wanted to improve on. You weren’t meant to be gone long. When the news of his death came to you, you felt shattered. The air was sucked out of the room, your blood ran cold, you could barely speak. Someone may as well had opened your chest, poured liquid nitrogen on your heart, and smashed it with a sledge hammer. That might have been more relieving. Instead, you gathered what faculties remained. “Sorry uh… thank you. What um… where…”

“His body has yet to be released but is being examined at the Gotham City Morgue.”

“Thank you…” you replied. You hung up. It was too much. You’d dealt with bodies before, it was your job as a cleaner for the League of Assassins. You never thought you’d have to deal with the body of someone you’d grown to love, let alone your own father.

Grayson met you when you arrived at Gotham. You were quiet and distant. He didn’t blame you. No, you didn’t want to go to the manor, you had a place of your own. You needed some privacy with your own self. Grayson would later learn it was because you were talking to “Bruce”, seeing him in the room. He overheard you talking to him one night when he came to check on you. You went along to help with funeral proceedings, discussions often leading to you staring off and sometimes digging your nails into your wrists or palms.

During a small meeting with the police you actually broken skin, pulling yourself out of your trance. Grayson tried to help, but you just walked away without an answer to clean yourself up. That day had been the worst because you learned what had happened, but didn’t say anything about what you knew, at least not to the police. Your grandfather, that fucking monster, was responsible. You’d cleaned up enough of the Leagues messes to recognize it, and in the bathroom you were pissed. Your rage and anger, that they took the one person you could call family who treated you like a person and made you feel like you were good enough. When Grayson went to find you after, all he found was a shattered mirror in the bathroom.

Your emotions got the better of you there was no denying that. The training you’d had was put to good use, but to a dangerous degree. More than once you nearly sent thugs to early graves, you’d even held one on the edge a roof, demanding answers before dropping him on a trash bin. You kept ignoring phone calls from Grayson, knowing he would just berate you for taking things too far. You weren’t killing anyone. You weren’t crossing any lines! The Assassins? That was crossing the line, you were just putting criminals in their place. You couldn’t make anyone happy it seemed. “Stop that’s too far!” “Come on you should know better.” “You’re better than this.” “You’re not good enough.” “This isn’t right.” “There’s no next time if you’re caught.” “You’re not an assassin.” “Pathetic.” “Messy.” “You’re not a hero!” “Why aren’t you picking up the slack.” “Stupid child.” “Get me another beer!”

“Nobody wants you.” “Quit screwing up!” “Again, and do it right!”

SHUT UP!!!

“FUCK!” You shouted realizing you’d hit a brick wall. Literally. Your knuckles were bloody still, and now had pain running through them from the impact, and up your forearm. You had to crouch, cradling your hand, and gritting your teeth.

"The fuck do you want?" You asked, still wincing. Grayson had shown up, fully suited, on patrol. He wasn't on patrol though he just opened with the whole "I was in the area" bs. You'd heard him coming, but outrunning him was pointless, especially with everything your head was dealing with.

"You can't keep going like this." Grayson said. Really? Really right now? This is what he decides to start with? The Last of the Flying Graysons everybody! Stating the incredibly obviuous from new heights. Before you might have said that out loud, but you didn't have the energy too. Your mouth control was a lot better too.

"You're self destructing." Why did he have to be so calm when he was talking, it pissed you off.

"What told you that? My cradled arm or your fifth sense?"

"The number of battery cases at the hospital." He answered. ...it was a rhetorical question, but you didn't think your escapades had gone that far. Then again why did it matter?

"No one else in this family has added to it?" You asked, rhetorical again.

"Y/N you're going too far. You keep going like this, you'll end up the same way as the guys you've put in hospital beds. Or worse.

"Good maybe I'll get to spend more time with dad." You muttered. Yep, Grayson was right. That's what this was.

"I get it, you;re hurting, but hurting yourself and other people isn't going to bring him back." Grayson told you. You tried to walk away, turning and rolling your eyes. Yeah no shit, you'd dealt with death before, you were a cleaner for god sakes, you knew what it entailed. Grayson didn't know shit about your life. "I'm serious, if you keep going on like this, you'll-"

"End up in the same place as dad, I fucking got it." You snapped. "Point still stands."

"...I know what it's like, losing your family."

"No you don't." You mumbled.

"I lost my family." Grayson argued.

"I LOST THE ONLY FAMILY I HAD!" You screamed. He didn't know anything about it. He'd had a family, he had another family, you never had anyone else but your dad, and no one would understand that. You grew up not knowing what family felt like until you met your real dad. "You don't know what any of that feels like! You have a family! You had a family! You had parents!"

You took a minute to pace, and let the emotions get out and consume, do whatever the fuck emotions did when you felt yourself exploding. Someone needed to hear it because at this rate no one seemed to understand but was pretending they did. You turned back to Grayson, who just had a look on his face that you couldn't read. Maybe it was clam or shock or pity, you didn't care.

“You had a father way longer than I ever did. Those few moments mean more than anyone will ever understand!” You yelled. "The day I met him, was the first good memory I ever had. Those were the only good memories I had!"

Grayson stood there. Bruce had been cold with him for a long time, warming up to him took time. Maybe it was because you were younger, maybe he saw himself in you from the night he lost his parents, maybe you were just able to warm up to him better. Regardless he’d opened up to you much easier and much faster than he had with Grayson. Training had been for you to prove yourself. Prove you weren’t just a cleaner. Bruce covered for you when the League of Assassins tried to look for you.

Maybe Bruce opened up after everyone else had slowly tugged away at his walls. You found a way through because they'd made holes for you to get in.

You stared back at Grayson, before throwing your arms up, in a fed up shrug.

"And I fucking left..." You said, your voice raw.

You sat on the ground, frustrated. You missed him. For the short while you had, it was basically everything. For once in your life you had real father, one that didn’t give you shit for overlooking something he’d missed or tried to peer pressure you into drinking rather than letting you talk it out. You could talk to him, feel at home, feel safe, be happy! Grayson had all the time in the world with him, he couldn’t know what that was like. You pulled your knees in, as if trying to squeeze into the brick behind you.

Grayson sat down next to you, more relaxed, while you just stared at the ground. You wanted to tell him to go away. You didn't want a big brother right now. You wanted your dad. You couldn't have him, so Grayson was the next best thing. That's what you told yourself at least.

"I think you had some of the best times with him." Grayson said finally. "He used to be a lot colder. A lot of it was business or vigilante stuff. It took a lot of time for him to open up. Told me about his parents after I lost mine. I think he hid a lot of it at first because he was worried about me, I mean I was like 10 at the time, not exactly a safe hobby. He was like that for a long time with me and pretty much everyone else. Then you came along, and... I think that little time you had, was after several practice runs with us."

"So...?" You asked. What was he getting at?

"You had the best times with him, and I think those were some of his best as well. Even if it didn't seem all that exciting, for him they were good. They were fun to watch from the sidelines too." Grayson told you. You felt some warmth in your chest. Maybe it was just exhaustion. "He's gone but you still remember him. That makes those moments better. Breaking yourself isn't going to bring him back, it just makes you hurt in other places. Trust me I know from experience."

"... Am I gonna be okay?" You asked after some silence.

"...No. It gonna be different... and eventually you learn to live with those differences. It will be alright... but it will not be the same. That...that is okay." Grayson told you.

"...Okay." You said, taking some time to breathe. It was the first bit of relief you'd had in what felt like months. You kept pawing at your eyes, tearing up.

"We should get out of here. Stay still and some punks with find us." Grayson said. "No more fighting for a bit, you need to find other coping skills."

You scoffed at that. Good, your hand was still hurting anyways.

"Water, food, first aid, and then we'll figure something out from there." Grayson told you getting up. He gave you hand getting up.

"We?" You questioned.

"The last time I left you alone you broke a whole ass public bathroom mirror." He stated. "Like it or not, you're part of the family. Family doesn't get left behind."

"Deal." You said, and he got you back to the clocktower.

Taglist: @yourlovely-moon @kaoyamamegami @h0n3y-l3m0n05 @sans-chara @0wosugarmommymedic0wo @smitten-haematite-quartz @talia-the-gemini @yuki2129 @whitetiger846 @graystorm444 @chibiduck @reaperxxxxzz @danielle143 @sobbingnshtting @cringeycookies @cryingpages @dcnocap207 @reaper-chan666 @bestbookfriends @thriving-n-jiving @cutiecusp @shikigami-the-paper-spirit @lolyouranelf @theotheronedotorg

[brokenpieces-72]

How would Val react to either Logan or David having nightmares, or how would the Ghosts react to Val’s injury, and maybe some sleep issues?

Okay so. *claps* few things to break down here… I love it. I'm going to say this sort of takes place in between a couple of chapters, while also being a preview I guess? We'll see.

Nightmares and Scratches

Nightmares are nothing new to you. When you were little sometimes the boys would have them, and their own ways of coping. Now they were older but war and battle still hits them. You're not a big sleeper yourself, so comforting them comes second nature.

When David starts tossing and turning, your laptop is shut immediately and set aside. The safest thing is to shake him awake. Does he lash out? Yeah, a little. You can grab his wrists quickly enough for him to realize what's going on. Then you'll wait for him to calm down, take deep breaths, and make sure he has water. Most recently, he'd started checking on Logan when he woke up.

One night he did this after you left the room to get him some more water. There he was, sitting on the edge of his bed and staring at Logan who was sound asleep. Ever the protective older brother. You offered him the glass, and he took it while you sat next to him. He didn't tell you every nightmare or bad dream, but after everything...yeah you couldn't blame him.

"He's okay." You told David, your voice soft and surprisingly comforting. David looked at you and leaned against you for a moment before straightening.

"It was ODIN. Logan didn't make it out, and... dad didn't remember him." David said. "Like I was the only one."

"I can promise you, I will never forget him." You said hoping it would be enough. David nodded, and gave you a side hug.

"You better get some sleep." He said, getting back in the bed.

"No promises." You said, going back to your laptop.

Logan was usually quiet with his nightmares. When he was little you swore you saw him softly crying one night. Lately they'd been getting more frequent. You had a feeling it was more Rorke related. Honestly the visit to Nessie had you struggling with sleep as well.

One night Logan jolts awake. He finds you with your bandage from the monster attack, and looking at him with concern all over your face. You gave a half smile, while the adrenaline pumping in Logan's system slowly wore off. He was sweating, you could make out some beads in the darkness.

"Can I touch you?" You asked. Logan nodded. He was overwhelmed, which meant he would be quiet for a bit. Once he was well rested, his words would return, but for now, it was just your voice and his hands.

You sat next to him on the bed, leaning against him. "You want to talk about it?"

Logan nodded, and you held his hand. You felt his thumb rubbing over your knuckles. "Was it about the past or more recent?"

Logan's thumb tapped your second knuckle. "Was it about Kai, the monster, or something else?"

Logan tapped your second and third knuckle. "Okay. Did you see someone else?"

Logan nodded. "Was it Hesh, your dad, Rorke, or another ghost?"

You felt a tap on your first and last knuckle. You could take a guess of who the other ghost was. You didn’t ask anymore, instead you scooted closer. “You’re safe. We’re all safe right now.”

Logan just nodded and leaned against you. You weren’t sure if it was part of him being overwhelmed or just his personality, but moments like these he backs like a kid. Cuddly and clingy, resting against you for comfort.

He kept eyeing the bandage around your arm. He brushed his fingers over it, feeling the gauze. You just sat there letting Logan do his thing while he slowly felt himself relax. After a few minute you knew he needed to get to sleep. He was going to be wiped tomorrow otherwise. Like a kid though he kept holding on to you, wanting you to stay. If the two of you were asleep in the same bed, too many things would be assumed. You reminded him, and he let go of you.

“Good night. You know where to find me.” You said softly, before one more hug and leaving the room for your own.

Your injury, while treated and cleaned was still sore. Painkillers meant your head was foggy and focusing was difficult. Rest was highly encouraged, but the experience left you with some sleep problems of your own. The downside is that surrounded by guys, it sometimes made you feel weak, like you were being pampered when you didn’t need to be.

Your dad is hovering constantly, he’d been fretting about your wound since seeing you with it, making sure it was throughly cleaned, like is parental rights were on the line. It’s nasty, but it’s taken care of well enough. Rest is a must, despite you trying to argue.

“If the commander says no missions, then no missions. Sorry kiddo.” Keegan said, sounding like a dad.

When it comes to your sleep problems he tries to help you fall asleep. Melatonin, white noise, just about everything short of chloroform. Eventually Keegan lets you stay awake, and start writing, typing away at the keyboard. Of course he’s sure to let you lean against him as you feel your eyes start to drift closed, and your arms growing weaker. Keegan plucked the laptop from your hands, setting it aside and lowered your head to his leg. Finally, he got you asleep. If only he could have done this when you were a babe.

Being your dad, of course he's dealt with some nightmares. He let's you ride it out at first but if it gets worse, he'll wake you up. Keegan isn't a stranger to bad dreams. Operation: Sand Viper didn't leave Keegan unphased, and he does what he can to help you through your own issues.

Kick and Neptune are usually at computers, and you do research close by, assisting with intel. Your injury doesn't prevent your ability to type, so majority of your duties are at a screen. Even then you find yourself drifting off, even more than before. Lack of sleep will do that to you. Kick is more observant when it comes to you nodding off and urge you to sit back in the chair so you don't get the falling feeling that forces you awake. Kick doesn't want you to faceplant into the keyboard. Neptune usually finds you already asleep either on the desk or slumped back in the chair. Neither one gives you a hard time, only telling you to get some fucking sleep. If you fall asleep, they wake you or take you over to a couch or bench to lay you down.

If you wake suddenly, one of them will turn to make sure you're okay. Yeah your waterbottle is right next to you if you need a drink. For the love of god though, please get some sleep. On the off chance you're able to get a proper sleep, you'll wake up and find that one of them put their hoodie or jacket over you. The computer room is usually pretty chilly, so one of them will just get another layer

Merrick, being the closest thing you have to an uncle does give you a hard time over your injury. He lectured you about protective gear and self defense when you got back. Actually he is the one that pushes you to keep working even if you aren't on missions. Training is still pretty brutal, but he's smart about it. Merrick is now showing you how to protect your injuries better, keep the enemy from getting an advantage.

Merrick won't train with you when you're exhausted. At one point he tells you off for it. You don't get to skip sleep to get out of training. You're not that kind of person. Merrick asked if you were having sleep problems and you admit to it. Nothing really gets past Merrick, the guy can seem all muscle but he's no less perceptive. All he can do to help is recommend you talk to a therapist. If he sees you with any energy drinks or caffeine, he either makes you dump it, or confiscates it.

After one training session with him, you were bloody exhausted. Like absolutely wiped, on the floor, sweet soaking your clothes, face and hair. You're barely able to move so Merrick helps you up. You figure he's just going to help you along, nope! This bastard hauls you over his shoulder dragging you to the showers. Once you're changed, you have to drag yourself off the bench and once again he'll put you over his shoulder. He gets a laugh out of it, you trying to tell him you can walk on your own. You need to sleep, and he drags you to your room so you can rest. Once he arrives you're already out like a light.

When Elias saw your injury, he not only insisted on medical leave, but for you to be on observation. He wanted to ensure you didn't experience any infections and that the injury healed properly. Yes he was like this when you were little too. Every day you visited the medbay and Elias got a report on any changes to your injury. You were tough, and didn't like to be fussed over so he tried to respect your boundaries, but at the end of the day, he was still your commanding officer. Your safety and condition is important to him.

When he gets his reports, the medics express concern over your condition. The injury isn't showing any problems yet, but it's clear your arm wasn't the only thing damaged in the encounter. Dark circles were forming under your eyes, sitting on the table seemed much more laboured, and your yawning did not go unheard. Keegan likely already knew, but it didn't stop Elias from coming to check on you while you had some free time. He found you leaning against a railing, taking in some air, and still fighting to stay awake. As soon as you saw him you stood at attention, and he told you to relax. Then he joined you in your aimless observation.

"How did you sleep last night?" He asked. You had hoped to hide it, not wanting the fuss. None of your lies got past Elias.

"Not great." You admitted.

"You're allowed to be scared."

"I know, but..." you rubbed your face with your hands, sighing. "I don't want to be."

"If you need more time to sleep and recover your work will still be there. It can be put on hold for a bit." Elias offered. Except you didn't want to. The team depended on you for your insights, your research provided them with valuable details.

"It's easier said than done, sir." You replied.

"Right now your orders are to get more sleep. No stimulants and no caffeine." Elias said. You nodded.

"Yes sir." You replied. Elias jerked his head towards the door. Those orders started now. You gave him a nod and pushed yourself away from the railing. If you could at least lay in the bed, relax, rest, that would be good enough for you.

David found you up late, like ungodly hours of the morning. He'd heard about your orders from Elias, as did Logan. You were sitting at the table in the kitchen, with a mug of tea and a tablet. He stayed quiet, noticing you were reading. He hoped it wasn't more cryptid files. Not wanting to scare you, he knocked on the door frame before entering. You looked up as he made his way to the kettle. He found your tea stash, and some sleepy time teas. Yeah he could use a mug of that too.

"How's your arm?" He asked, walking in.

"Still healing." You answered. "How's your thick skull?"

David smirked as he made some tea. When he joined you at the table he found some crackers to snack on. An image came up on the tablet screen, and you scrolled past it. "You know if you read cryptid files, you'll just have nightmares."

"I'm fine." You snapped. He did have a point though, thinking about the monster probably wouldn't help. Hesh sipped his tea. Oh wow. It was better than he thought. Certainly felt more calm. You didn't seem to be calm though. Or fine.

"Look, Val, what you're dealing with, it's not that different from me and Logan. Sleep didn't come easily to us after every mission. Still doesn't."

"Yeah I know." You said.

"We'll help you." David said. "You help us, so it's only fair. No different from when we were little."

"We're adults now." You reminded him. Things had changed. "It's very different."

"Then we adjust. You were always good at that." David said. Something about him saying that, it felt like a switch was flipped in your head. Suddenly you were very aware of your exhaustion. Your body felt heavy, your eyes were sore, and you felt tears down your cheeks. Was that a lump in your throat? "You'll get through this."

Hesh didn't waste anymore time, helping you to your feet and taking you back to your bed. You pulled the blanket over yourself and Hesh left the door cracked open. No more words were needed. Only rest.

Logan woke up to an early alarm. When he learned you were struggling to sleep he started to set an alarm to check on you. So far he found you asleep in your room, which left him some relief. You were sleeping and doing a lot better.

When he checked on you, he found you asleep in bed. Good. Another night you were able to rest. Before he went back to his room, he overheard you starting to groan and fuss in your sleep. Pushing the door open further, he found you tossing and turning. Without another thought he came over and laid next to you, pulling you into him. A calloused finger brushed against your temple, as he tried to soothe you.

"I got you... I got you...." He whispered. Your fighting settled slowly, moaning softly, before relaxing into his arms. Then Logan heard the sound of something moving beneath the blanket, feeling something brush against him. When Logan looked down, he could make out movement in the dark. You were scratching at your bandage. It wasn't supposed to be infected, but he wondered if you were hiding it from the others. He didn't want to be right, but he didn't ask either. Right now, he wanted to remember the good times, the times when you were kids and he would comfort you. The times when you would comfort him.

The simpler yet still complicated times.

Taglist: @yourlovely-moon @kaoyamamegami @h0n3y-l3m0n05 @sans-chara @0wosugarmommymedic0wo @smitten-haematite-quartz @talia-the-gemini @yuki2129 @whitetiger846 @graystorm444 @chibiduck @oliverwasmeanttobedead @danielle143 @sobbingnshtting @cringeycookies @cryingpages @dcnocap207 @reaper-chan666 @bestbookfriends @thriving-n-jiving @cutiecusp @shikigami-the-paper-spirit @lolyouranelf @theotheronedotorg @artzzyb00-27

[brokenpieces-72]

Papa Nik is the driver and the one who brought the snacks.

commit war crimes with mama

[brokenpieces-72]

Decided to try my hand at an oc for Yaeklore. This is Kiki.

[brokenpieces-72]

This is why Spirit wears earbuds to bed.

???whoever???: *banging on Ghost’s door*

Ghost: *opens it* What-

???: You are NOT slick, okay! You and Johnny gotta stop with the midnight visits!

Ghost: … oh. You know about that?

???: YES I know about that! The only thing you two bang harder than each other is your headboard against my wall!

???: *points* my room is right next to yours! Have some god damn respect! 2 in the morning? REALLY!?

Ghost: I-

Ghost:

Ghost: … okay, you know what, that’s fair

[brokenpieces-72]

Afternoon Daydream

I haven't talked much about the commission mainly cause I've been trying to focus on getting it done, and it's definitely not going to be as refined as it could be.

Characters

Eiji - Mature, responsible, brave, loyal

Becca - strongheaded, adventurous, cautious

Rowan - free will, fearless, a little stupid

Finn (Fish) - nerdy, more timid, picked on but in a good way

These four are hanging out one night at the skatepark, teasing and chilling. One of them decides to make a bet to go into the abandoned mall, and the four of them all decide to venture in.

Did I mention it's the location of several disappearances of teenagers that mysteriously vanished in '96?

Taglist: @yourlovely-moon @kaoyamamegami @h0n3y-l3m0n05 @sans-chara @0wosugarmommymedic0wo @smitten-haematite-quartz @talia-the-gemini @yuki2129 @whitetiger846 @graystorm444 @chibiduck @oliverwasmeanttobedead @danielle143 @sobbingnshtting @cringeycookies @cryingpages @dcnocap207 @reaper-chan666 @bestbookfriends @thriving-n-jiving @cutiecusp @shikigami-the-paper-spirit @lolyouranelf @theotheronedotorg @artzzyb00-27

[brokenpieces-72]

Fears

CoD Ghosts Cryptid Hunter AU | Navigation

TW: violence, some disturbing imagery, not sure if there's anything else.

Even sleeping bags were made more comfortable by hoodies, beanies and the sounds of the water. You were curled up next to David on the floor of the van, a sleeping roll laid out underneath you. Despite how comfortable you were you were struggling to sleep. The call to your dad, telling him about Kai, it still bothered you.

You crawled out of your sleeping bag and quietly opened the van door to keep Hesh from waking up. You looked around for Logan and Riley, knowing it was their turn on watch. Well Riley didn’t sleep much anyways so it was always him on watch but still. You found Logan sitting by the fire with Riley wandering about. Logan was muttering to himself, which you knew he did when he was thinking alone.

Your steps alerted him, and he looked back and up at you as you came over, sitting down beside him. Logan returned to poking the fire absently. He stopped muttering but not thinking. You scooted closer, resting your head on his shoulder thinking too. Thinking about what killed Kai. Whatever it was did it intentionally and with cruelty. The body was together and Nessie was still swimming freely. The monster had gone into the water and dragged the little one out before feeding. It had help too. Could it be the Federation? Would they be so heartless? Maybe if Rorke was involved. He’d probably do it to send a message, and it made you hate him even more. You'd encountered him plenty of times before. You didn't see Ajax, but Keegan didn't withhold anything from you.

“Rorke is fucking with us. He killed Kai, how I don’t know. I think that’s why Nessie got so aggressive when she saw you guys. Probably thought he was still one of us. Felt like she couldn’t trust them anymore. Saw me and thought an old friend returned, and brought the wrong company.” You said, wanting to break the silence between you two. It was quick, and something you just wanted to get out there. Logan didn’t say anything, but his head dropped a little. You removed your head from his shoulder. “Hey. Talk to me.”

“M’fine.” Logan muttered. Yeah right, you knew it was bullshit.

“What is it?” You pressed.

“Don’t worry about it.”

“I’m going to now.”

“God you are annoying you know that?” Logan told you, with a look of frustration on his face. You went quiet, your eyes flicking down. Logan sighed, knowing you hated hearing that. Heard it from your mom more than once. “I didn’t mean it.”

“I know.” You said. You knew he didn’t. But something else was bothering him. “If you don’t want to talk about it, I understand. Shouldn’t pry.”

The night is silent again with the fire crackling, and your butt going numb on the ground. “Rorke… when we interrogated him, and the plane crashed, he told me to come find him if I wanted to join him.”

That wasn’t what you were expecting. “Wow… talk about a whirlwind recruitment.” You said. It did seem odd. Clearly, it bothered Logan, it wasn't hard to tell. You just didn't know why.

“Why me though?” He asked you. He asked you like you knew the answer. “Why not David or Keegan or you?”

Opportunity maybe? Or just convenience?

“I… I don’t know. Maybe your dad? Personal grudges and all.” You suggested.

“Or he thinks I’m weak.” Logan said. “Easy to break, the easiest to bring over to his side. The one he could get a hold of and twist to his own desire-“

“Hey hey. Don’t talk like that.” You told him. You didn’t want to think about what Rorke could do to Logan. Could do to any of your team. The image of Logan being tortured the way Rorke had been, it felt like there was a hole in your chest, sucking your insides. Logan kept his head down, and in the low light of the campfire you see something glistening against his cheek. Was he crying? Had he been holding this stuff in for that long? Were you the first person he told? You put an arm around him, and leaned against him closely.

“Tell me how I can help.” You said. Logan just shrugged. “You know you’re allowed to be scared.”

“I’m not scared.” He argued, setting down the poker. “This whole thing was a lot different when it was just Odin striking and Rorke leading the charge of the Federation but the idea that he is going after Ghosts specifically and wants to somehow recruit me… it’s a different story. We have to focus on everything around us and one thing that could be coming from anywhere.”

You heard his voice break a little as he buried his face in his hands. If he wasn’t scared then you were scared for him. You hated seeing either brother like this. Tugging one of his hands away from his face, your fingers lacing with his. “Look at me.”

Logan looked up at you and you made sure he didn’t look away, your hand squeezing his. “No one… is breaking us apart. Ever. David isn’t going to let it happen, I’m not gonna let it happen and you’re not gonna let it happen. Okay? I promise that I will never let Rorke get his hands on you, fuck it, I vow to break Rorke a second time if he tries to do the same to any of us. I solemnly swear, on my honour.”

“You can’t promise that.”

“I’m vowing not promising. Because like it or not I love you.” You said. Logan looked at you, and you realized what you said. Shit, not how you wanted to phrase that. You hope he didn’t take it that way. Not that you didn’t mean it. Wait. “You’re family to me.”

Did Logan look disappointed? Ever so slightly? Why did your face feel warm? The fire, it’s the fire. Or the cold. Yeah. That was it. Logan looked down at your hands and nodded. You let go of his hand, and hugged him.

“We’re gonna kick his fucking ass.” You said. “Pay him back for everything.”

Logan shifted over to face you better, properly putting his arms around you. He was hugging a little tight but you assumed it was out of comfort. Instead he pulled you up and back, lying on the ground, making you yell in surprise, and him laugh at you. You wrestled with him, but he ended up on top of you. Not that you gave up easily. You went for under the arms, tickling him, and his arms gave out, giving you the chance to switch sides. You heard him groan in pain once you were on top.

“You good?”

“Yeah, just rolled onto a pointy rock.” He said, fidgeting to get the rock away from his spine. You waited for him but he didn’t bother with giving you the green light, because he poked your stomach and then started tickling all your weak points making you laugh like you were both seven.

“Not fair!” You argued, but it barely came out through all your laughing, as you tried to fight back. This went on along with some name calling, for a few minutes before you found yourselves tuckered out. You laid on top of him hearing his heartbeat. The moment of laughter was relieving for the short time you had it.

“Val?”

“Hm?”

“…nothing.” Logan said. He didn’t want to interrupt the moment.

“How you feeling?” David asked Logan. Logan looked up noticing his brother was awake in the van, sitting up, half submerged in the sleeping bag.

“Fine why?” Logan asked, getting his coat off, and checking his pack.

“You took a rock to the spine that had to hurt.” David teased. He got a pair of socks thrown at his head in response. “Take that as a yes.”

“They can hear you.” Logan said, dropping his volume.

“Yeah, I did.” David responded. Logan went a little red. Oh god, this wasn’t the end. David did lower his voice though. “They love you.”

“Not like that.” Logan corrected him. David dropped his head back, fed up.

“They do though.”

“You don’t know that.”

“You like them though, so just tell them. What’s the worst that could happen? You’d still see them every day.” David argued. Logan got into the sleeping bag, wanting to just sleep and dream about something else.

“Yeah and that wouldn’t be massively awkward.” Logan said sarcastically.

“And them living with us wasn’t awkward for you?” David questioned. That was different, at least to Logan it was. Back then you saw each other as family, close friends. You had to leave eventually, your father getting custody of you.

“They needed help, it’s different.” Logan said. David sighed.

“You’re gonna be okay though… just remember that.” David told his brother laying back down. Logan wasn’t sure if David heard his conversation with you about Rorke. Regardless he needed to hear that.

“I know. I think I’m just tired.” Logan said laying down himself.

“Alright… just don’t go shaking the van when it’s my watch.” David said turning over. Logan whacked him with his pillow. Worth it.

You sat outside with Riley still wandering. Once the van door shut you buried your face in your hands.

Why didn’t you just tell Logan?! For fucks sake! Why were you like this? Ugh! Your face was red. Come on you’ve had this crush for how long? Then again, it hadn't hit you until after you left the Walker household. Then it was a couple years of texting, Odin striking, hunter training and monster research for ten years, and no contact mixed with longing. Longing to see him again, to see what became of him, to show him what you'd achieved and accomplished yourself. Maybe he liked you back, there were signs, but you didn't want to misread anything.

You sighed, trying to find something else to think about. Then you heard something. Riley heard it too, lifting his head from the ground, his hackles rising. Riley hurried over as you stood up and backed up towards the passenger seat of the van where a hunting rifle was leaning against it. You posted up with the familiar weapon looking around, the strap hanging loose like a hammock. The mist was obscuring a lot, but Riley skidded in front of you, growling in the direction of the sound. You heard it more, almost like a quiet growl, along with the rustling of plant life. You made sure the gun was loaded, ready to fire.

You could sense movement somewhere, as could Riley but you couldn’t make it out properly. You put some distance between yourself and the van. Suddenly Nessie was kicking up a fuss as well, pulling your attention. Riley then started to rub against your leg, pressing his collar repeatedly. Riley kept pulling away and returning as if he wanted something but you weren’t sure what. With Riley growling, something rustling and Nessie crying out warnings you were being overloaded with noise. You couldn’t concentrate, and you turned to try and get the brother’s awake and ready to help you.

Before you reach the van door, the stranger made itself known. Your blood ran cold seeing it. You couldn’t tell from this distance if it was a skin walker or a wendigo. It was big though, and it was horrifying. You knew they weren’t friendly by any imagination, and Nessie was crying out, as you realized this thing probably killed Kai, seeing what looked like pieces of Kai's skin hanging from it's mouth and attached to it's body. It's flesh seemed to be none of it's own, instead from other animals and creatures. Fur, scales, even some feathers seemed to be stuffed or tied around it's body and limbs. There were even pieces of cloth, strapping it's "skin" in place. It was approaching, moving slowly. You knew it was a ploy, they were very quick and agile and if it was one of the federations who knew how much stronger it was. It wanted you to be scared, but you raised the gun ready to fire at any moment. Riley was snarling, ready to attack. Despite your initial desires you prayed the boys would stay in the van.

The creature had approached on two legs but hunched over moving on all four boney limbs. Hold your ground, no sudden moves, the buck shot will knock it back. It was circling now. The creature is almost twice your size. Your heart was racing, and you honestly wanted to call out but that would give the monster more targets, unarmed ones. You take a shot in the dark and start moving closer to the creature. It shuffled back, but you still had to be careful. You wanted it away from the van so it could try to rip into it. You couldn’t fire until it attacked. A creature like this could be knocked back with buck shot, but it was fast enough to get out of the way before you fire, only taking some of the blow. You got it to move back, shouting at it, putting some distance between it and the van, but even then your steps were careful and planned. If it decided you were bluffing, it wouldn't hesitate to close the gap, and render your rifle useless with close range. It had to make a move first. You had to wait until it decided it wanted to go for a kill.

The boys could hear your shouts and got their own weapons. Riley went to the van door and started to scratch at it, urging them to hurry. You stop moving, waiting for your backup. Don’t look away. Keep your concentration. The creature stopped, tilting its head, slowly. Its teeth were yellow, and jagged, like they'd been broken and sharpened.

It took a bold step closer to you. And then another. You stepped back. “You… will be… perfect…”

The voice was haunting and raspy. But you swore it was familiar, as a deep chill ran through your veins. You heard some noises from the van, and risk a glance at the sound of the door sliding open.

The creature took full advantage of your moment of vulnerability. Suddenly there was a massive weight on you and you were staring the monster in the face. You hit the ground hard and hear your name cried out from behind you. It's palm pressing down on your chest holding you there. It could feel your heart beating. The boys can’t fire, the buck shot could hit you. The creature knows this and you struggle underneath it. It’s hopeless as it shrieks in your face raising its claws. The gun is too far away, you were already trying to reach for it. You tried to kick at it, struggling with everything you had, but it remained unbothered.

The claws come down and you’re able to raise your arm to cover your face. It sliced through your jacket, giving your arm some deep gashes. As it did, you felt something hot pass above you, and the weight was forced off. You cried out from the pain.

Logan dragged you back as you winced from the sting of the cuts, gritting your teeth. David chased after the two strangers, as you heard unearthly noises from both. You took a moment to look and could make out… was that… what the fuck?! Even Logan looked stunned, stopping once you were close enough to the van.

“What the hell?” You breathed, as David fired on your attacker the shot echoing out around you. Meanwhile a large dark canine on fire, chased it, barking and biting at it with bright white fangs staying between David and beast. You didn’t think a creature like that could be on the surface, hell you thought a monster like that was myth and only myth.

The beast couldn’t get to David with a burning and snarling hound in the way. It nearly caught itself on fire from the flames coming off the creatures body. David took a few shots, hitting the mark. The creature backed off but it didn’t retreat. Logan had set his attention on you, getting your coat off and checking the damages of your scratch. If you didn’t clean it soon you could risk a much deadlier infection. You were honestly trying not to tear up.

“LOGAN!” David cried out. You saw the beast approaching, and you pulled Logan off of you if only to keep him safe. Luckily the dog was faster, clamping its bear trap jaws onto the beast’s leg and dragging it away. You reached for your rifle, adrenaline still pumping, as you fired on the beast. The monster cried out and backed away, snarling and staring you down with cold eyes. By now the creature realized any food tonight would be fruitless. No hunt was worth its own death.

It was able to get free from the hound’s jaws to flee, clawing at the dog’s snout, before whacking the side of the dog's jaw. The hound recoiled, shaking off the hit. The canine didn’t let it flee without giving it a good scare by chasing it away. The flaming dog let out deep guttural barks, outside the tree line, growling a warning not to come back out. Once it was sure the creature was gone it let out a haunting howl, as if announcing a victory. David kept the rifle raised while Logan was panting alongside you. He got back up checking your arm, as Nessie let out another cry, this one angry. The canine let out a woof in her direction, almost like an apology.

What the fuck just happened? The dog thing looked to Hesh and laid down without a command. You saw Hesh look down at something in his hand and cautiously approach the dog. It wagged it's tail proud of itself. Yeah you'd be damn proud to if you were able to take down a creature like that.

“Is that a hellhound or am I experiencing blood loss?” You asked Logan. He looked back for a split moment. He was trying to wrack his brain around it as well. You watched as David put the thing in his hand around the canine’s neck. The flames died down so as not to burn David as the collar was put back on. Once the collar was fastened the monster returned to a German Shepard. Riley shook himself, as if there might be some remaining ash on his fur before posting up near the tree line. David looked at his brother and friend, who looked back. Riley’s long lifespan certainly made more sense. One hell of a good boy.

Taglist: @yourlovely-moon @kaoyamamegami @h0n3y-l3m0n05 @sans-chara @0wosugarmommymedic0wo @smitten-haematite-quartz @talia-the-gemini @yuki2129 @whitetiger846 @graystorm444 @chibiduck @oliverwasmeanttobedead @danielle143 @sobbingnshtting @cringeycookies @cryingpages @dcnocap207 @reaper-chan666 @bestbookfriends @thriving-n-jiving @cutiecusp @shikigami-the-paper-spirit @lolyouranelf @theotheronedotorg @artzzyb00-27

[brokenpieces-72]

Hi 👋, I was thinking about the nix fic and how he wouldn’t let himself be a kid to not be vulnerable. Maybe while in the middle of resetting, a mission he was not involved with goes a little sour and everyone is down in the dumps. So reluctantly and in a safe place shows them, let them maybe baby him and make them feel better. I just think it sounds cute and want some more nix 🤭😋. Thanks 🙏.

Nix is aged down and becomes a source of dopamine. This’ll be a little interesting. Right now I have the adorable image of hello kitty bandages.

Little Nix

Nothing goes according to plan all the time, you know this better than anyone. You'd learned to plan your resets but in your current position, resets could come at any point. Bullets tend to stray after all. In the time you've been around you picked up on how you are seen by others through your various stages of life, the military being no different. Unfortunately, a long life can help you overcome your anxiousness but not dispel it completely. On base is no exception. You still wait patiently for soldiers to return from missions, fearing the worst.

You're still a child, but you don't shift into one, preferring your phoenix state more. Your feathers have yet to fully come in yet, but you're able to make some short distances. The medics and other soldiers on base don't mind having you on their shoulder either, especially with the colder months creeping in. It's nice being pampered every so often with scritches.

When you heard the helicopter land you went to the window, seeing the team coming back in from their last mission. It didn't take a report to know they needed some care and the mission didn't go too well. Soap looked exhausted, but still gave Gaz his shoulder lean on. Price looked frustrated, talking to Alejandro who seemed equally annoyed. Ghost was unreadable, but kept an eye on Rudy who was holding his arm as they shuffled into the base. You got on to a shoulder, and led to the team as they were being looked over in the med bay.

Ghost was absent getting his gear removed. Soap also needed a change of clothes, with his shredded apart from shifting. Rudy's arm looked like it had been used for failed target practice. Alejandro and Price were still talking, going over what went wrong, seemingly assuring each other that everything that had gone wrong came from unexpected surprises, likely over looked or kept under wraps. Alejandro kept glancing over at Rodolfo as his arm was patched up. Gaz's leg and wing had gotten messed up a bit, but nothing too bad, he would heal in a couple of weeks.

When you were close enough, you flapped your wings over to the cot Price sat on. You looked up at him, a let out a cooing sound. Price took notice of you and gave you some scritches, before returning to the conversation. Little to the left... down... perfect that's the spot. Still it didn't seem to be doing much good for them. You're not able to do much as a phoenix, and right now you were in your child phase. You still had the mindset and behaviour of a child, but you were more aware of everything, knowing how your actions would affect others.

After checking everyone is okay, and getting the care they need you leave the medbay, intending to come back. You decide to test your idea on Ghost. Both of you have gotten more comfrotable around each other, no longer put off by the life and death aspects of your hybrid sides. Ghost is still changing, but he could hear your wings flapping and talons scratching against the floor. Then he heard you shifting as he slipped on his shirt. When he turned a brow raised under the mask. He wasn't expecting a child, let alone one peaking around the corner with shy curiousity. Your hair gave you away, but he humoured you.

"Isn't it nap time?" He asked. Your age took over your nature, making you move your hiding place while Ghost looked away for a moment to tie his boots. Ghost looked back over his shoulder to get his hoodie. It was swiped by your little hands. Ghost sighed, standing and cracking his back, coming over to your new hiding place. When he looked down he saw you with his hoodie on, looking like a mini grim reaper.

"Raaah!" You said, trying to scare him, the hood over your face and the sleeves draping to the floor. Ghost smiled. He also realized you probably didn't have anything under the hoodie. Despite how tired he was, Ghost picked you up.

"Come on, let's get you some clothes." He said and carried you to your room.

Gaz was sitting up on the roof when you and Ghost found him. Ghost got up to the roof, with you in his arms. "Care package."

"Since when do you give out care packages?" Gaz asked, before he noticed your hair peeking out from the oversized hoodie. Ghost decided to let you hang on to it for now. You didn't have any coats or sweaters for your size, so what the heck. Gaz smirked when you were set down and you shook the hood off.

"I'll leave ya to it." Ghost said, ruffling your hair. When Ghost got to the ground, you went over to Gaz sitting next to him.

"Not much for cloud watching." Gaz admitted. You didn't mind, you just wanted to check in with Gaz. You snuggled up to him, with his wings going around you. Gaz tickled your face with his feathers, making you giggle. It wasn't long before Gaz switched to tickling with his hands, making you squeal. Those giggles became uncontrollable and in no time you were on your back, having a laughing fit that made your stomach hurt. Kyle started laughing at your lack of self control, his mood improving everytime you started to calm down before bursting into giggles again.

You're carried inside when it starts raining, Gaz carrying you while keeping weight off the bad leg. "Where now?"

"Medbay."

Gaz nods. Medbay it was then. You have someone to visit there. You wiggle when Kyle gets close to the door, telling him you want down. Kyle puts you down and you peek around the corner to check if he's still there.

Rudy is reading while sitting in one of the beds. You hurry over to him, landing at the side of the bed, and getting Rudy's attention. "Hello?"

"I think Nix is working on morale." Kyle says, coming up behind you. "Ghost brought 'em to me earlier, they wanted to see you."

Rudy looks back at you and smiles, ruffling your hair. You put your arms up towards, the bed taller than you. After thanking Gaz and letting him leave, Rodolfo picks you up and pulls you on to the bed. At least he could still use his arm okay. You snuggled up next to him while he returns to his book. You could still read, and he lets you look at the book asking when you're done before turning the page.

You keep nodding off, and when you finally let sleep take you. Rudy dog ears the page before continuing to read by himself. He keeps an arm around you while you squirm to get into a better position. Once you're comfortable again, Rudy absently rubs your temple with his thumb. He certainly felt better mentally.

Alejandro came and found you next to Rudy, fast asleep. Same as the others, he recognizes you immediately. Rudy needs to sleep, so Alejandro takes you to put you down for a nap. Your little arms go around his neck as soon as he picks you up. Still asleep, still snuggly.

Alejandro carries you back to your room, and tries to lay you down but you don't let go. "Come on niño."

"Mm." You moan and tighten your grip around his neck. Alejandro chuckles. Yeah he knows what that means. Alejandro sighed and laid down in your bed, pulling the covers over you. You start to wake, but he just hushes you, letting you listen to his breathing. He could use some time for himself as well, especially after everything. If Price wanted him, he could find him. Right now, he needed this.

After a long nap, Alejandro was awoke with you still in his arms. You were awake as well, just cuddled up. "Thank you hermano."

You made a gesture like you were putting something in your mouth, making Alejandro smile. He knew that gesture, and thankfully you didn't require a highchair. Slowly the colonel rose from the bed, keeping you in his arms. Once he left the room, he hoisted you on to the shoulder. Did it mean crouching a little through the door ways? Yes, but your little "wees" and giggles were worth it.

Soap was in the kitchen with some coffee, and a book. Just outside the kitchen area you were set down and told where Johnny was, before the colonel left the two of you alone. You peeked out from the door frame and eyed Soap at a distance. His back was to you, and his tail swaying. You tip toed a little closer, after pulling the hood back over the hoodie. You looked like a walking hoodie, with most of your body covered. Then you started to rush in, with your target locked on.

Soap jumped from his tail being hugged suddenly. He whipped around, yanking the tail from your small grasp. Soap realized it was you a little too late. His expression dropped when you fell over. The sudden moviement had tugged you as well, making you fall to your knees a little hard. You sat back tearing up, sniffling.

When he hears your little whimpers, Soap knows it's you. Shit, he hadn't heard you coming with his headphones on. Without another word, Soap scoops you up. "Come 'ere. It's okay."

The pain wasn't too bad, but sometimes your adolescence causes the same reactions. In his big arms, you feel warm and safe, while he apologizes and hugs you. "Sorry Nix. Ya just scared me. Where does it hurt?"

You held out your legs while he sat you on his knee. Johnny rolled them up, checking the damage. No cuts or bruises, just hurt. "You're okay. It just hurts a wee bit. Yeah?'

You nodded and he hugged you placing his head on yours. "Am sorry for scaring ya."

He held you like that for a bit, until you stopped sniffling, and no more tears fell. "You hungry?"

You nodded, and Soap sat you down. A simple peanut butter sandwhich was fine. Sometimes, doing simple tasks for others helped occupy his mind on other things. The bonus was doing it for a little one like you. Once he was finihsed making it, he came back and set you on his knee again. After breaking off a piece, he dangled it over you, offering to feed it to you, before tugging it away. There were some hearty chuckles when you made noises expressing you were fed up with the game. Soap gave in and let you eat. Half way through your meal Soap rested his head on yours.

"Thanks Nix. Needed this today."

Price was in his office, finishing the report. If he could, he would have written it to be much more blunt. It had felt like a shit show. Anomolies had appeared, and there wasn't much they could do to make up for it. They pulled through with minimal damage but it didn't make it any less stressful. The captain sighed, leaning forward and rubbing his face with his hands.

Price recieved a knock at his door. "Who is it?"

"Care package." He heard Soap call. Price raised a brow. Since when did he get care packages? A little odd, but whatever.

"Come in." Price said. The door was cracked open.

"Leave it for you here sir." Soap called back, before leaving to go do something else. He made sure you had your little gift too. Price waited, brows furrowed. Then you pushed the door open, and put your sleeve covered arms in the air.

"Yay!" You said. Price looked at you for a moment, before snickering and shaking his head, holding his hand over his face. Not what he was expecting. You rushed over to him careful not to trip over the hoodie. You only fell once, before recovering quickly and rushing over to hug Price. You didn't have a chance to go for the leg before he lifted you and hugged you, sitting back in his chair. He didn't say anything, just held you. For a moment you thought of letting go, but instead rested your head on his shoulder.

"Hell of a day Nix. Hell of a day." Price mumbled. You gave him a tiny squeeze. Price chuckled. The two of you had been around for a long time. Even still, Price had moments where he considered walking away from it all. It was moments like these and moments with the rest of the team that reminded why he did it all. He knew you would get dirty again, eventually. The same as all the others. Right now, he wanted you to stay clean.

You were able to pull away for a moment, noticing his arm had a cut on it still. You reached into your pocket, and tugged at his arm. He turned it for you, confused. Then he saw you had a bandaid. Still the immortal medic. Just a different age. When you finished, you hugged him around his neck.

"Thank you Nix." He said, putting a hand on your back, letting you nuzzle into him. You heard him snort when he saw the bandaid you put on him. A hello kitty bandaid. He wouldn't complain.

Taglist: @yourlovely-moon @kaoyamamegami @h0n3y-l3m0n05 @sans-chara @0wosugarmommymedic0wo @smitten-haematite-quartz @talia-the-gemini @yuki2129 @whitetiger846 @graystorm444 @chibiduck @oliverwasmeanttobedead @danielle143 @sobbingnshtting @cringeycookies @cryingpages @dcnocap207 @reaper-chan666 @bestbookfriends @thriving-n-jiving @cutiecusp @shikigami-the-paper-spirit @lolyouranelf @theotheronedotorg @artzzyb00-27

[brokenpieces-72]

Bell deserved better.

But surviving would probably be just as bad.

[brokenpieces-72]

This freaking killed me lmao

rip russell adler no one will know that your demise was to a brainwashed russian agent who 360 no scoped you 🫶 we'll tell them it was a heroes death bbg

adler can't do anything but watch as I repeatedly twirl on spot by his feet whilst he bleeds out, this will be the last thing he sees lmao

[brokenpieces-72]

Correction: he is your fresh out of jail uncle, who lets you drink beer at the age of ten.

Who's your daddy?