ship-all-ships

[ship-all-ships]

Stranger: ((5th year Christmas)) Why do you hate me so?? -SM What have I done to deserve such a punishment from you??? -SM

You: What have I done other than get sick this year?-AP

Stranger: The Christmas present you gave my dad.... -SM Why would you give him a pun book! -SM What have I done to you to deserve this torture?? -SM

You: Oh, ha. Thought he could use some humour in his life. Does he like it?-AP

Stranger: ...he loves it -SM

Stranger: I never thought I'd ever want to blow a book up ever so much in my life -SM

Stranger: I told you to buy him an actual book! -SM Like Jane Austin or something -SM

Stranger: He doesn't even understand half the jokes cause it's talking about muggle stuff! -SM

You: It was the only book they had at the joke shop and my Christmas shopping time was very limited-AP And he's read everything at the bookshops in the wizarding world, so I thought this would be interesting-AP Besides, your family doesn't really know a lot about muggles. Not that mine is /much/ better, but we've got two raised muggle in the immediate family so...-AP

Stranger: This is not the way to teach him about muggles, Al... -SM

You: How did I teach you?-AP

Stranger: It's awful -SM He's laughing to himself and then asking to explain jokes and then laughing again -SM

Stranger: Teddy. Teddy taught me. -SM You just made fun of me for saying Rad. -DM

Stranger: How was I supposed to know rad was outdated, Al?? -SM

You: Because you learned it from Teddy? He's a total hipster-AP And he didn't teach you /everything/-AP

Stranger: ...True -SM But Al, at least like an encyclopedia would've been nice -SM

You: I wish I could see this-AP

Stranger: You wish, huh? Why don't you come over and see the chaos you've made -SM Maybe you could apologize to the house elves too -SM The house elves, Al! They have done nothing but feed you and care for you! -SM

You: [....] Would they make me that tea and some soup if I did come over?-AP

Stranger: ...Yes -SM

You: Maybe-AP

Stranger: You know you could actually come over though -SM I'm sure you wouldn't mind slipping away from your family for a bit? -SM

You: Ha, yeah. I'm so congested and drugged up I can barely get through a conversation without my head spinning, but Christmas is at nan's so just slipping out to find a place to sleep is /hard/-AP

Stranger: Awee, sorry to hear that Al -SM

Stranger: Ask if you can sleep here though -SM And like, go in the morning maybe? -SM

You: Or I'll just pop over now and fall asleep-AP

Stranger: Yeah! -SM

Stranger: Wait. I'm supposed to be mad at you -SM

Stranger: Come here and apologize to me -SM

Stranger: Then we can have cocoa -SM

You: Hmm, okay. On my way-AP

Stranger: Great! -SM

Stranger: I'll be expecting a formal apology, Mr Potter -SM

You: I'm wearing like, three jumpers and my /glasses/. There's no formal here-AP

Stranger: Lol I cannot wait to see this -SM

You: Scorp.....-AP

You: I mean, you've seen it before, I think-AP

Stranger: I have -SM

Stranger: But I love seeing it -SM

Stranger: It makes you look so cute! -SM

Stranger: Like a big marshmallow -SM

You: Merlin, I'm going to regret this-AP

Stranger: Yup. -SM

Stranger: And I'm going to love it -SM

You: Your dad still has the pun book though-AP

Stranger: Unfortunately -SM

Stranger: But maybe he'll torture you with it now! -SM

You: He won't torture me, I'm sick-AP

Stranger: It will be the kindest torture you'll endure -SM And my dad probably has some potions stocked up to help you -SM

You: Merlin, I hope so. Nan made her famous cure, but it hasn't cured this yet-AP

Stranger: Really? Your Nan's recipe didn't work? Awe, must be a really bad bug then -SM I'll ask my dad if he's got anything at home -SM

You: Okay. I'm on my way now-AP

Stranger: Dad says he might have something -SM

Stranger: See you soon, Al -SM

You: ((paras?))

Stranger: ((Yup. Do you mind starting?))

You: ((not at all! Just give me a moment))

You: Albus had managed to let his mum and Teddy know offhand that he was going to Scorpius's to take a nap. At least, he tried. He was so congested that he didn't really know when what he said made sense or not. He was mumbling quite a lot. Sneaking off to the fireplace, Albus stole a pinch of floo powder and quickly sent himself away to the Malfoy Manor. The trip left him a little dizzy and disoriented, but he recovered a few moments after stepping out of the hearth. Sighing, he rubbed his eyes, groaning at the pressure behind them before stumbling off to find someone who actually lived here. "Scorpius?" He asked, walking from the living room and down the hall. "You still here?"

Stranger: Scorpius smiled at his enchanted notebook and hurried to tuck it away and rushed down from his room to the kitchens in the basement. He was so pleased that Albus was coming. It had been awfully lonely, especially since the Pureblood families hosted their yearly ball yesterday and Scorpius was once again left to socialize with a group of people who hated him. So, yes, he was happy Albus was coming. Scorpius had just finished the making the cocoa and carried the tray using his magic before hearing the crash of the fireplace. He jumped and bit and hurried up the stairs and towards the familiar steps. "Albus! Hi," he called out and hurried over, careful not to lose the balance of the tray. He hugged him tightly before pulling back, frowning a bit. "Oh, look at you. You're so pale," he said and hurried him into the cozy parlour. "I have cocoa here and a bunch of blankets. Don't you worry."

You: The Malfoys were bad with illness. They were never entirely certain when to react, and Albus felt bad that he figured it had to be because of Scorpius's mom, but he didn't ever ask. In truth, he loved the coddling. If Scorpius was bad, Draco was worse. Once, Albus came over with a fever so high Draco actually forced him to bed and brought a private doctor to him, then contacted his family and calmly explained that he'd be staying over until his fever subsided. He then poured over every one of Albus's requests. Albus had cried at how loved he felt. All he could do was smile as Scorpius ushered him into the parlour, sitting down on his favourite sofa and grabbing the cocoa, humming as he brought the hot liquid to his lips. "You're the sweetest" he murmured, patting the spot next to him for Scorpius to join him. "Merry Christmas, Scor"

Stranger: Scorpius pouted as Albus sat down on the plush sofa, making sure he had a nice hot mug of cocoa before getting to work. He grabbed the blankets and started to wrap Albus up. First tucking one around his legs, then a separate one on his feet. He added one more to cover his back and around his shoulders before a final one all over, leaving enough room for himself. Scorpius waved his wand to slowly bring over his own cocoa and cuddled up next to Albus' blanket barrier, smiling at him. "Merry Christmas, Al," he said and leaned over to give him a simple peck on the cheek. "Dad'll be here soon. He's just looking to see what he's got."

You: If his cheeks weren't already flushed with fever, then they would have grown red as Scorpius kissed his cheek. Grinning, Albus closed his eyes and rested his head on top of Scorpius. That was, of course, until that change of movement made it hard to breathe, so he had to move again. Merlin, this was miserable. Everything hurt and he just sort of wanted to die, but being in the warm quiet of Scorpius's house made things so much better than at at his Nan's. Humming, Albus closed his eyes and tried to rest until he heard footsteps approaching the parlour. He forced himself to look up then, smiling lightly as he looked up blearily at Scorpius's father.

Stranger: Scorpius pursed his lips at the disgruntled sounds Albus made. He adjusted a pillow against the armrest and leaned against it, pulling Albus and his blanket suit against him, hooking his leg around him to keep him secure in place, knowing that Albus wouldn't stay still unless forced to. He even pulled him back down when he noticed Albus was going to sit up for his dad. "Al, don't. You rest. Dad won't mind," he said softly. Draco knocked and opened the door, holding a silver tray with a couple bottles of potions. "Hello, Albus," he said calmly. Draco would never minded admitting that he adored Albus. The two Slytherins clicking instantly when they first met, their first conversation being of Scorpius of course. Now, Draco treated him like his own son. Especially in times of need. Just like this. "How are you feeling?" he asked and set the tray down on the coffee table, kneeling down beside the couch and placed the back of his hand against his forehead.

You: Albus wanted to fight the embrace that Scorpius forced him in, but he couldn't. It was so sweet, and in a moment he knew Scorpius would start playing with his hair, and maybe if he was lucky he'd be able to fall asleep because he hadn't done that in centuries. Still, he felt bad for cuddling up against Scorpius with Draco coming in. Even though they were so close, Albus still felt the need to be formal with him. The man always presented so nicely, it seemed a shame to be seen like this. Huffing as Draco placed a cold hand on his forehead, Albus pouted and still tried to sit up a bit. "Your son is slowly trying to roast me alive, but other than that?" He asked, just as his voice caught and sent him into a small coughing fit. "Miserable"

Stranger: Scorpius laughed softly and leaned down to press his lips against his head before scrunching up his nose slightly. Albus had been sweating a lot. Scorpius and Draco looked down at Albus as he coughed, staring an equally concerned look before Draco turned back to Albus. "I can see that," he hummed before turning to the potions on the tray, mixing two or three into a small cup. "Scorpius. I want you to get Albus in the bath. Freshen him up and give him a new set of clothes and let him lay in bed," he said and watched the small amount of potion boil together. Scorpius nodded seriously before looking down at Albus. "Al, you think you can do that? I think you'll actually feel much better if you wash the sweat off you," he said and pressed his hand against his cheek, hoping his warm hands may help him. God, how he hated seeing his best friend like this.

You: Sitting back up again after the coughing fit had made Albus dizzy. He hadn't actually listened to Draco or Scorpius too much, but then Scorpius was next to him and all Albus wanted to do was burrow into his side and hide. So he did, curling up as Draco mixed a potion for him, hiding in Scorpius's shoulder. He grunted when Scorpius asked him if he'd be up for it, but he didn't fully hear what he'd be up for. "Yeah, sure" he agreed regardless, because being less sweaty sounded really nice, but then again so did a nap. "Will it make breathing any easier?"

Stranger: Draco turned around and nodded. "It will. The steam with help," he said. Scorpius smiled and took off the layers of blankets from him and stood up, helping Albus to his feet. "We can add lavender scents in it too to help you ease up more," he reassured before turning to his dad, placing one arm around Albus' waist to support him. "How long will the potion take, dad?" Draco looked up at them, unaffected by the obvious affection Scorpius was showing Albus, already used to it. "Around twenty minutes. Plenty of time for him to bathe and get dressed."

You: While the blankets might have been roasting him alive only moments ago, the absence of them made Albus shiver as if he'd never get warm again. Cursing Scorpius quietly, Albus stood up with help and regained some of his balance. He still didn't feel great though, and he happily leaned against Scorpius once the other had an arm around him. He hummed at their short conversation before being brought up to Scorpius's bathroom and sat down on the toilet as he watched the other draw a beautiful looking bath. "Make it warm" Albus murmured as he watched, his arms wrapped around him to try and stay warm now that he was suddenly chilled. "You took my heat away, Scorpius"

Stranger: Scorpius nodded and hurried Albus upstairs and into his bathroom. He waved his wand to warm up the room before rolling his sleeves up as he filled the bath, laughing softly at his orders. "Yes, master," he said, teasingly before he made sure the water was hot enough for Al, pinching a few drops of lavender into the water. He then turned to Al and walked over to him, kissing his head. He knew it was weird for friends to do things like that. But since when did Albus and Scorpius ever listen to the rules. "Do you need help in the bath or are you good? I can keep my back to you if you want? Don't want to leave you alone just in case you pass out."

You: In all honesty, Albus loved the affection Scorpius gave him. It made him feel good, it made him feel loved. He giggled when Scorpius kissed his forehead and then slowly started to peel his clothes off. "You think I'm gonna....pass out?" He asked, pulling off his jumper and throwing it on the floor. He was slowly slipping into uninhibited territory the more his fever climbed, which only made him want to be closer to Scorpius. "You could join if you want....I wouldn't mind"

Stranger: Scorpius nervously bit his lip, wondering if he should get his dad if Albus was going to pass out. But when he stepped closer, he blushed, holding him upright in his arms. He chuckled nervously and helped him take off the last of his layers, looking away when Albus was fully exposed, helping him into the bath. "Why don't I stay outside and help you," he whispered and made sure Albus was comfortable in the tub before cupping some water in his hands and pouring it over his hair, trying to rinse out the sweat.

You: While he was blushing and giggling the whole time, Albus did enjoy the help Scorpius was giving him in undressing. And while he pouted about not getting Scorpius to join, this wasn't so bad. He leaned back towards the other once he was settled in the bath and sighed, trying to keep himself together, even though all Scorpius wanted to do was clean him it seemed. "You're so good to me" Albus hummed, closing his eyes as he tried to relax. "You and your dad and....you're all so good"

Stranger: Scorpius smiled down at Albus, making sure to clean his hair thoroughly, reminding himself to change his own sweater as it got slowly wetter and wetter. "That's because we both like you, Al," he said softly and sighed happily when Albus seemed to be relaxing. "You're like family to us, Al. Us Slytherins gotta stick together you know," he said, teasing softly as he chuckled. Once Albus' hair seemed clean enough, he grabbed the soap and leaned over to clean Albus' chest, not being too thorough as he tried to force his mind into a safer place. He couldn't be thinking thoughts like that in a time like this. Albus was his best mate! And he was sick too! Scorpius bit his lip as he concentrated on washing him up and nothing else.

Stranger: Scorpius smiled down at Albus, making sure to clean his hair thoroughly, reminding himself to change his own sweater as it got slowly wetter and wetter. "That's because we both like you, Al," he said softly and sighed happily when Albus seemed to be relaxing. "You're like family to us, Al. Us Slytherins gotta stick together you know," he said, teasing softly as he chuckled. Once Albus' hair seemed clean enough, he grabbed the soap and leaned over to clean Albus' chest, not being too thorough as he tried to force his mind into a safer place. He couldn't be thinking thoughts like that in a time like this. Albus was his best mate! And he was sick too! Scorpius bit his lip as he concentrated on washing him up and nothing else.

You: This was heaven to Albus. He could fall asleep to this, it was practically a dream at this point. Humming as he let Scorpius clean his chest, Albus moved one of his hands to lay on top of Scorpius's, chuckling lightly. "I love you" He murmured, slumping back against the other. "Thank you for letting me stay here. You're...you're so great"

Stranger: Scorpius froze at Albus' words, watching him with wide eyes for a moment before nervously chuckling, fondly shaking his head. "Oh, Al. The fever's really getting to you," he said and made sure all the soap was washed off before setting it down and picked up a towel. "Anytime, Al. You can come by anytime you wish," he said and wrapped his arm around Albus and helped him up, looking away as he wrapped his lower body in a towel, quickly picking up around one for his shoulder and the third one for his hair. He held his arms and helped him out of the tub. "How're you feeling?"

You: "It's not the fever!" Albus protested, a little offended at how Scorpius took it all. He continued to try and protest as he was getting wrapped in towels, but there wasn't much he could do. Frowning once he was all wrapped up, Albus shrugged off the towel across his shoulders. "They're itchy, even though they're the nice ones" he murmured with a huff. "And I'm not....delusional I'm just....." He was caught off guard then by a fit of sneezes, causing him to double over and nearly loose the other two towels. "I'm sick, okay? shut up"

Stranger: Scorpius blushed when Albus tried to defend himself. How could he mean it though? They were friends. But Scorpius quickly let those thoughts slip away when he rushed forward, to keep him standing, letting Scorpius sneeze over his shoulder. "Alright, alright. No need to get fussy," he hummed. "Let's get you changed," he said softly and led him into his room, making him sit on his bed before walking over to his drawers and pulling out his comfiest pair of pajamas.

You: Albus knew those pajamas. He knew those pajamas like the back of his hand, because they were Scorpius's favourite. He loved those pajamas, and right now he was forefiting those on Christmas so that Albus could wear them. The sentiment was so sweet, that once Albus realized what he was doing, tears sprang to his eyes. "Scorp...." he mumbled, reaching a shaking hand for the set. "These are your favourite pajamas"

Stranger: Scorpius looked at him curiously as he made his way with the pyjamas in his hands. "What's wrong?" he asked, suddenly worried before realizing what those emotions were about. He honestly could feel his heart melt. He loved his friend so goddamn much. To his angstiest fits to the cutest way he acted when he was sick. "It's okay, Al. I want you to wear them," he said and held them out to him. "You need them more than I do," he said, offering him a soft, reassuring smile.

You: These were Scorpius's bad day jammies. They were the "the world is ending and I need comfort" jammies. These were the way that Albus knew he needed to give his best friend more attention, because something was wrong in his life. These were the "I miss my mom" pajamas, and the fact that Albus got to wear them right now, when he was stock full of gross sick germs and snot only made the whole exchange better. Leaning in for a hug before he took the pajamas, Albus wrapped his arms around the other and sniffled a few times. "If it didn't hurt to cry so much, I' be crying so much more" He mumbled. "Are you sure?"

Stranger: Scorpius laughed when the other leaned over to hug him, catching his friend in his arms and hugged him back. "I'm sure, Al. They're just jammies," he said, though he knew they were so much more. Honestly, Scorpius felt Albus needed them. He was sick and weak and super emotional and Scorpius knew Albus hated being all three- thus, comfort jammies. Scorpius pulled back and smiled at him. "Just change into them, Potter. Because I change my mind and give you the itchy ones," he teased, hinting at the other to hurry up. He couldn't have his dad come in while Albus is tearing up and nude.

[ship-all-ships]

lol I fell asleep

You: [tw: epilepsy] I know you love him and I know you're out of the country and miss him but for fucks sake stop calling your boyfriend he's not going to answer right now and it's really getting on my nerves-IA

Stranger: Why isn't he answering me? HH

You: Some stupid fucking kid was messing with Zeus (service dog) and he had an atonic seizure in the middle of the store-IA Then someone called an ambulance before I could tell them to fuck off, the boy cut up his chin and is sleeping off the pain meds on my sofa-IA He's alright though. I was going to have him call you when he woke up-IA

Stranger: Fucking /Christ/. HH I knew it. HH I fucking /knew/ something was up he always calls me at lunch. HH

You: He's fine though. No concussion, just a bump. Two stitches down his chin makes him look even more like a punk-IA Asked about you like crazy while on the meds. I have a few videos for you-IA But I didn't want you to panic. I've got it under control-IA

Stranger: Thank you so, so much for being there for him. HH I know it's not for me but you are the only other human I'd be comfortable with him around when he's like that. HH Aw. Was he really? HH

You: Well we've been friends since we were kids, I've had my fair share of walking him to places to sleep it off and telling idiots to fuck off-IA Yeah. Getting stitches in his chin and asking why you weren't there to hold his hand. This big stupid punk kid with a dog cuddled in his side asking for his boyfriend to hold his hand. It's fucking choice-IA

Stranger: I'm still grateful you're there for him. HH Awwwwww, my babyyyyy. HH I bet he looked absolutely adorable. HH Was he wearing the jacket? HH

You: Of course, mate. I'm glad he's got you too, you know. Makes him too happy-IA Which jacket is "the jacket" mate. He owns at least five-IA [VID0025] Here. This is the best one of him-IA

Stranger: Well I'll tell you for a fact that I'm not exactly complaining about having a mega cute punk-ass boyfriend. HH He's got a favorite one. It's the one with The 1975 signed patch on it. HH AWWWWWW. HH He is probably the cutest thing to ever exist. HH ZEUS PERKED UP WHEN HE SAID MY NAME MY LIFE IS COMPLETE. HH

You: Oh. Nah he's in the black one with the pac man characters on it today-IA He only talks about you all the fucking time, of course Zeus is going to perk up. He almost started crying when I told him you weren't in country, but cheered him up by telling him I'd buy him ice cream-IA I think he was really tired at the time. We got home and he knocked out-IA

Stranger: I like that one too. HH I miss them both so much. America is too loud and busy. HH My poor thing. HH

You: When are you coming back again?-IA He'll be alright. I'm just mad at the fucking kid. I almost killed his mother for letting him be so ignorant. Fuck, if Alex hurt himself any more from this, I'd have kicked the shit out of her-IA But he's okay. I'll make sure he calls you when he gets up, yeah? He'll be sad he missed his usual call time-IA

Stranger: Another three weeks. HH I'm glad you were there to help curb that. Alex can be too nice when it comes to kids and Zeus. HH I'm glad he's okay. Thanks. HH I just miss him a lot, you know? HH

You: I straight up told the kid to move out of the way and he wouldn't. Fuckin hate kids-IA But yeah, of course. He misses you too. Talks more about you every day you're gone, gets this stupid smile on his face when he's talking about you-IA I miss you too, fuck. Just so he stops saying the same stuff about you all the time. I already know why you're in America, and I know what you're doing, and I'm sorry but I don't care that your dinner wasn't that great the other night. He's going to spend like, a solid four days with you when you're back before I can convince him to do something by himself again-IA

Stranger: Alex wants to have some, later in life. Uncle Ian's gonna be a thing. HH Aww. He's too cute, I swear. I got lucky with that one. HH Pft. I'm sorry about that. I'm sure it gets boring to hear. HH (delay) I do have an ulterior motive, though. HH Baby one. HH

You: What do you mean? Baby one-IA Hamish, don't make me an uncle this early. I'm not ready for it. What are you talking about?-IA

Stranger: Like, a kind-of ulterior motive. HH (small delay) I'm getting a ring, while I'm here. HH

Stranger: Bad choice of words, sorry. HH Baby as in small. HH

You: You made me scared, I was afraid you'd kidnapped a child or something-IA So you're proposing when you come back?-IA I'm going to have to buy a tux now?-IA

Stranger: I'm not /that/ crazy. HH Yeah, at some point. HH Mmm. Probably, yeah. Sorry mate. HH

You: He's going to be so excited-IA You're going to have to get Zeus a little suit too, you know-IA

Stranger: We talked about it once when he was a bit tipsy, and he insisted on a suit for Zeus. I'm very aware. HH

Stranger: Zeus is like our child already. He's like the teenager we're so proud of. HH

You: Well he's a very good boy. Keeping guard on the floor while Alex snores-IA Here, I'll send you a picture-IA [IMG0205]-IA

Stranger: Aw, look at him. HH It's funny to see him shift. When you take the harness off he acts almost like a real dog. Rolls around on the floor, all that. HH But he can read Alex like a hawk. HH

You: He is a real dog, he's just not a pet. Wicked smart this thing though-IA I know he can, and I'm pissed that he wasn't able to read Alex this time. The way he drops still scares the shit out of me-IA

Stranger: Right. Sorry, bad choice of words. HH He's our pet off-duty. I think Alex likes that he can feel normal with Zeus. HH I know. The first time it happened with me I nearly had a heart attack. HH

Stranger: Normal is also a rough choice of words. HH

Stranger: Non-epileptic. HH

You: I know what you mean. You should have seen him before we got Zeus. He had to wear a helmet and shit all the time, and always looked so tired-IA Zeus is good for him. Lets him be the punk he is without feeling so self conscious. He's definitely happier now-IA But if he never dropped like that again I'd be so grateful. Those are by far the worst-IA

Stranger: He's shown me the helmet before. It didn't look like a fun situation at all. HH I'm glad he's happier. Zeus is a great dog. He likes to get in the middle of us when it's cold. HH Well, of course. HH The medicine has reduced them a lot, though, right? HH

You: He decorated it at the very least. Covered in stickers and art and shit, but no it wasn't fun for him at all-IA Yeah, I think he's finally got a good balance of meds. They've reduced all the kinds he'd get, I think. Still. The finger twitchy ones and the ones where he just kind of blacks out for a few moments I can handle no problem. Those atonic ones though....Christ I'm so mad that he has to get those. More for selfish reasons, though. I think they're the scariest kind-IA

Stranger: I don't think wanting your best friend to be safe is necessarily selfish. HH I mean I'd love for him to not have epilepsy at all, because of how bad it can get. HH I'm sure you would too. HH

You: Yeah, just because I know what it puts him through. But Zeus is good for him, and the meds have been pretty good for him-IA Oh, he's starting to get up now. I'll get him oriented and have him call you-IA

Stranger: Don't rush him, okay? HH Thanks for updating me. HH I'll bring you back good American booze. HH

You: Americans have good booze?-IA I know what I'm doing, mate. It's good-IA

Stranger: Sometimes! HH I know. I meant more along the lines of wait until he's like eating before reminding him. HH

You: What, that he didn't call you today?-IA

Stranger: Yeah. HH

Stranger: Let him settle for a bit, because he'll fret and he'll skip lunch. You know how he gets. HH

You: Big ball of nerves, he is. I know-IA He ate a huge bowl of ice cream earlier. I don't have too much else to offer him-IA

Stranger: Okay. HH Good, he ate something. HH

You: [....] I made a quesadilla for him and he's asking for you, so I'm going to dip and let you coddle him over the phone-IA

Stranger: Okay. Thanks, Ian. HH

Stranger: ((To: Alex)) Hey, cutie. HH

You: Heeeey, love. I didn't call you yet, did I?-AM

Stranger: No, not yet. But it's okay, I've got loads of time this afternoon. HH

You: Can I call you now?-AM

Stranger: Yeah! Are you feeling up to it? HH

You: Shush. I love talking to you-AM [Incoming call: Alex]

Stranger: Hamish had settled on the bed he'd been staying in for the past several weeks, Alex's hoodie coddling his frame. He laid back against the pillows and smiled at the contact picture of Alex and Zeus, both grinning up at him from a barbecue that had went to that summer. He answered the phone, fingers twisting around the necklace permanently on his neck. "Hey, cutie."

You: Alex was still exhausted, and his face hurt for reasons he hadn't quite pieced together yet, but he'd missed Hamish so much he didn't care. "Mush" He smiled, grinning as Zeus perked up at his greeting. "Zeus and I are excited. How's America today? Are you ready to come back yet?" He asked with a chuckle, frowning when he realized that smiling made his face hurt. "Misha my face hurts to smile. You can't be cute until it stops hurting"

Stranger: Hamish grinned, fighting back tears as he heard Alex's voice drift through the phone. Truth be told, America was nice and all, but a nine-week program was just too long. He missed home. He missed Alex and Zeus. He missed their warm comforters and the nights they spent together. He hated how long he'd been away already. "America is nice," he murmured, squeezing the pendant to keep his voice from breaking. "I'm always ready to come back to you, baby." He frowned a little, biting his lip. "I'm sorry. I'll make myself ugly soon."

You: "No!" Alex said, still grinning. Hamish was just too cute, Alex really couldn't handle it. "You couldn't get ugly if you tried. And you have tried before" he said, remembering one day when Hamish had tried really hard to be unattractive because Alex told him he never could be. It ensured a lot of laughing on Alex's part, and thoroughly confused Zeus a few times. "You have a few weeks, yeah? Does my hoodie still smell like me or does it just remind you of me?" he asked, taking a bite of his quesadilla while he waited for a reply. "I can't wait until I can pick you up from the airport. I got you a present"

Stranger: A smile twitched onto Hamish's lips as a tear tracked down his cheek silently. It was hard being away from home, that much he was certain of. He made a mental note to never go places without Alex again, chuckling at the joke. "That's true, I did try. I guess it's nice to know that you'll think I'm cute even when I smell of weird flowers and have red hair." He stretched out on the bed, nuzzling the hoodie into his nose. "Three more, yeah. Home stretch, baby." He hummed. "It doesn't quite smell like you anymore, but it feels the same, obviously. It's nice to have a piece of you here with me. Makes it nicer." He sat up a little, making a small sound. "Alex! I told you no presents."

You: "It's just a little one, I promise. A stupid little present. I just keep seeing you everywhere" He hummed, rubbing his face and noticing the stitches. "Oh hey" he mumbled, playing with them gently. "I got stitches here" he said, looking up at Ian hit the table, signaling for him to stop playing with them. "Ian's yelling at me. Such a mom for such an arse." he commented, sticking his tongue out at his best friend "Guess I really did myself in with this one, didn't I? Haven't hurt myself like this in a while. Hm, when you get back I'll have a cute new scar, then" He hummed. "You will think it's cute, yeah?"

Stranger: "Good thing I picked up a thing or two in America. We can do a little gift exchange." Hamish smiled to himself, standing up to grab himself a bite to eat. The hotel room was very small, and living in a single bedroom for nine weeks wasn't exactly the most thrilling thing on the planet. He heard Ian slap the table, and he held back a snort. "He just cares about you, silly." He pulled cold pizza out from the fridge and sat back on the bed, munching idly. "I guess so. It happens sometimes, though. And you were with Ian, at least." He smiled over the line, wishing he could squeeze the other tight. "I'll always think you're good. I'll kiss it all better when I get back home. That and a few other things." He smirked playfully.

Stranger: *cute, not good

You: Hamish was too adorable, Alex decided in the moment. He'd missed him too much, his smart little nerd who always had cold feet and loved to cuddle. He'd missed him too much. "I told /you/ no gifts. Unless they were totally killer" He chuckled, leaning his head against his shoulder. He was still kind of tired. "I look forward to that. I'm going to take you and we're going to spend a whole week wrapped up and cuddled in bed eating our favorite takeout and watching movies and making everything all better again" He said, rolling his eyes at Ian's face when he said that. "I hope you don't mind my holding you hostage."

Stranger: "Well good thing they are, in fact, totally killer." Hamish held back a giggle, curling back up on the bed. "Not at all. I would never mind." He sat quietly for a moment, squeezing the pendant tight. "I miss you bunches." His voice broke softly over the line, and he prayed the other wasn't able to hear it. He cleared his throat, wiping his eyes frantically. "I'm sure Zeus would love to have a whole week where he can sit in bed with us and pray off of our Chinese food."

You: Alex couldn't help but chuckle at the thought, but frowned when he heard Hamish's voice crack. Gods, he was all alone in a different country and all Alex was doing was talking about how much he missed him and wanted him back. He was not helping, at all. Fuck. "Hey, hey baby" he pouted, taking a deep breath and frowning. He'd fucked this up. "I'm so proud of you" He whispered. "You are doing so good, all on your own. And in a few weeks I can show you just how proud I am. Just a few more weeks, dear. I love you"

Stranger: Hamish had been trying so hard to be strong. Been trying his best to not be upset about the fact that he was so lonely at night it hurt, and dinners alone were too quiet, and nights watching movies with take away weren't nearly as good. Alex's soothing voice greeted him gently over the line, and he fought the urge to sob, stifling them back with a hand pressed to his mouth. He choked them away and found his voice, clearing his throat again. "I'm fine," he tried to lie, voice wavering a little. "Really. America....America is...is really cool." He gripped the pendant hard, whispering a quiet "I love you too" on the line. He felt back for losing his shit like this, but he was worried about Alex all the way in England and he /missed/ him.

You: "Yeah. If I could come visit you, I would" he promised. He'd thought about it but he couldn't afford it, honestly, and there wasn't really a good time to do it. "I do love you. I'm so proud of you, baby. I am. I'll video call you later tonight, yeah? Zeus can say hi, his ears are perked and everything" he chuckled, reaching his hand down to scratch the other's head. "Don't bother yourself worrying about me, yeah? Ian is such a mom" he chuckled. "At least, to me he is. Have you seen that?" He asked. "Frets over me for a day or so, makes sure I eat and stuff. Moved in for a weekend once"

Stranger: "I know you would." Hamish smiled a little, knowing it wasn't fair for him to be acting this way when Alex literally had stitches in his face. But maybe he could be a little selfish, for just a minute. "It just gets...gets lonely, that's all." His voice broke again, and he cleared his throat for what felt like the hundredth time. "Sorry. Bloody allergies. Still getting used to the...new weather." He sniffled, nodding. "Yeah. I'd love that. I miss both my boys over there." He curled into himself further, wishing now more than ever that his hoodie still smelled like his boy back home. "I have. I'm glad you have someone to look out for you there."

You: "Good, so it's a date" He hummed, stuffing his face with his last bite of quesadilla before tossing the plate back to Ian to clean for him. "Yeah, I guess I am too. He's a good guy, really. But I can't wait to have you back to fret over me. You make me food and kiss the bad stuff away, Ian just makes me food and bitches about it" He chuckled. "Zeus misses you too. you give him extra head scratches and treats. I think he's missing that. I'll definitely call you tonight then, when I get back to mine because I am not staying in Ian's smelly flat tonight"

Stranger: Hamish waited a small beat. "America's kinda scary. It's...so big. And there's so many...weird people and you don't know how they're going to react to certain things." He wrapped the blanket around him warmly, holding back a yawn. "I think you're taking advantage of the people that take care of you just a little bit." He teased, kissing the pendant warmly. "Aw. I miss Zeus. Tell him I think he's the best dog ever and I can't wait 'till he's practically shoving us out of bed for the best spots." He hummed. "Yeah, call me tonight. I'll be up."

[ship-all-ships]

It’s been a while since I’ve posted Mystrade

You: Darling-MH [Been missing for weeks with no contact to anyone]

Stranger: Christ. Myc. GL

You: Hello-MH

Stranger: Hi. Where are you? GL

You: I'm working on that-MH

You: Do you have contact with my work?-MH

Stranger: Yes. I've been doing everything I possibly can. GL

You: Call them. Tell them I need a full team-MH

Stranger: Right. GL

You: And I'll need you-MH

Stranger: Obviously. I've already informed your... Coworkers. Or whatever the fuck they are. GL

Stranger: They weren't too keen on it, but I said I had your /express orders/. GL

You: Thank you. Will you be on my team then? When they find me that is-MH

You: Not keen on what?-MH

Stranger: Working with the Yard. But then, they wouldn't be. GL

You: Hmm. They will survive-MH

Stranger: Exactly. GL

You: [.....] No location yet?-MH

Stranger: No. Can you give us anything us? GL

You: It's freezing, and secluded. Otherwise I'd have a location for you-MH

Stranger: "Freezing" helps. GL

You: I don't imagine it's more than a few hours away, though which method of transport I am uncertain-MH

You: [...] Gregory-MH

Stranger: Yes? GL

You: Iceland-MH

You: I've found somebody-MH

Stranger: In my defence, I got that four minutes before you did. GL

You: Did you?-MH

You: Are you coming?-MH

Stranger: Mhm. On a plane. Will you be alright for the next few hours? GL

You: I've been given a blanket and cup of soup, but refused a ride-MH

Stranger: What a tragedy. GL

You: If they were planted...-MH I'd rather wait it out-MH

Stranger: We'll work it out. GL

Stranger: Trust me. I'm entirely determined. GL

You: [...] I've lost the feeling in my toes-MH

Stranger: How long have you been outside? GL

You: An hour at least, if not longer-MH

Stranger: Aw, sweetheart. Are you hurt at all? GL

You: I haven't been able to do a full assessment. There are medics with you?-MH

Stranger: /Yes/. GL

Stranger: Stop worrying. I've done this before. GL

You: Are you worrying?-MH

Stranger: I shouldn't be. I'm a professional. GL

You: So you are-MH

You: [....] I'm worried too-MH

Stranger: It's been weeks, Myc. GL

You: Weeks?-MH

You: Whole weeks-MH

Stranger: Yes. And you didn't know. GL

You: I'm missing more time than I'd thought-MH

Stranger: Hey. Breathe. GL

You: How far out are you?-MH

Stranger: An hour at most. GL

You: An hour-MH

You: Yes. Right-MH

Stranger: If I could get there faster... GL

You: I'm aware there are limitations-MH

Stranger: Yeah, I know. GL

You: But if you could get here faster....-MH

Stranger: I'll see what I can do. GL

You: It might be better-MH

Stranger: Again, I got that one. GL

You: Prepared-MH

Stranger: Sorry? GL

You: You're prepared-MH

Stranger: Ha. Yes, I'd better be. GL

You: Yes. I'me missed you-MH

Stranger: I can do it 28 minutes. Give or take. GL

Stranger: Save it for when I get there? GL

You: Missing you?-MH

Stranger: Just the telling me about it. GL

You: I miss your warm hands-MH

You: Your jacket-MH

Stranger: Keep moving, please. GL

Stranger: Missing me won't do shit if you die on me, Mycroft Holmes. GL

You: Right. Create more heat. I'm walking-MH

You: You're almost here?-MH

Stranger: Excellent. GL

Stranger: 15? GL

You: 15. Good-MH

Stranger: I looked out the window and almost vomited. GL

You: Are you here?-MH

Stranger: Your phone has a clock, you have eyes. You know I'm not. GL

You: Hurry-MH

Stranger: I am. GL

Stranger: Status, please? GL

You: Cold-MH

You: I need a nap-MH

Stranger: Wait a little longer, please. GL

You: Greg-MH

Stranger: Myc. GL

Stranger: Greg is sitting tightly in his seat on the plane, tapping on the side of his phone softly with his index finger, but otherwise motionless. He's not sure he's ever been so tired in his life, or so stressed. It isn't the kind of thing it'd be appropriate for him to show in this setting - especially not in the presence of the kind of people Mycroft works with - but then, the conversation he's having with the man they're looking for... Isn't helping. Greg closes his eyes briefly and sucks in a breath through his nose, forcing himself to refocus. Greg stands, tucks his cell away, and steps across the aisle of the plane to stand by the door. He's still there when they land a few minutes later, and he's the first one off the plane. "Alright, let's go," he snaps to the part of the team that's working with him.

You: The messages, Mycroft had to admit, were probably the only things keeping Mycroft alive. Holding on for seconds, forcing himself to move when he could no longer feel his feet, or his ears, or his fingers. Each message became more painful, and the thought that he wouldn't get to see Gregory again, that he'd missed so much tim he couldn't account for, and that this could all be for naught terrified him, but he continued to message Greg. That was, until he couldn't anymore. He was cold, frozen actually, and immensely tired. Everything hurt, there was not a single patch of skin that did not feel as if it were on fire from the cold, or not part of his body at all. He couldn't walk anymore, he just prayed that Greg had a handle on where he was, that he'd come to his rescue. It felt like centuries before he saw the familiar man, and it took another decade before he could open his mouth to even say anything. "Gregory" He whispered, breathing out a heavy sigh of relief. He'd gotten to him, maybe this wasn't all for nothing. Maybe he'd manage to survive this.

Stranger: "Hey, hey," Greg says, grabbing Mycroft's hands. As much as he wishes he could pick the other man up and carry him to the plane, he takes half a step back and allows the medics to help Mycroft onto a stretcher (it's demeaning in a way Greg knows Mycroft hates, and he cringes with him, but just helps to pull another blanket around his shoulders. He looks awful, Greg notes). Thankfully, most of his job was getting to this point -- now that they're here, he's largely emotional support. He's not sure he could be anything else. They get to the plane largely without incident, and Greg's hands are shaking. He can't wait to get away from here.

You: It hurt more than he'd expected to be lifted onto the stretcher. It was embarrassing that his team had to see him in such a state, but at this point he was more focused on why Greg had stepped away from him. Then they were moving, and Mycroft realized just how badly his head hurt. How badly everything hurt. They were thawing him out under multiple blankets, and as soon as they'd gotten into the airplane, Mycroft was being stripped and checked for frostbite or any other injuries. That hurt his dignity more. Closing his eyes, he let out a slight whimper when one of the medics moved his ankle, and tried to turn over to Greg for support in this. If anything, he just wanted to continue to hear his voice, it was definitely the most comforting thing he had at the moment. "Greg" He whispered as they wrapped him in dry blankets, then electric blankets. "Talk. About anything"

[ship-all-ships]

Because I like to see my faves be sad?

You: Moons? You're more up to date on how to handle Padfoot when he freaks out, right? Because he's been staring at the same wall for almost an hour now and won't respond to me-JP

Stranger: I'm sorry he's doing what now? -RL

Stranger: Did he tell you why? -RL

You: Staring at a wall, refusing to acknowledge that I'm here-JP

You: No! He won't speak to me. He looks upset over something but I haven't a clue what happened-JP

Stranger: Right. Just, stay with him okay? Make sure he remembers to breathe. -RL

You: Well I'm not going to leave him like this-JP

You: Breathing, yeah. I'll make sure he knows how to do that-JP

Stranger: He really hasn't said anything? -RL

You: Not a word. Not even a dramatic sigh-JP

Stranger: This is bad. I've only seen him like this once before and even then at least he eventually started yelling. -RL

You: What was he yelling about?-JP

Stranger: What do you think. His family. -RL

You: Merlin. This is bad-JP

Stranger: I have a feeling I know what this is about. -RL

You: What happened?-JP

Stranger: I can't be sure, I've only heard rumours..-RL

You: Remus anything you can tell me will help, I don't know what to do with him-JP

Stranger: Regulus. I've heard rumours about Regulus. -RL

You: What about him?-JP

Stranger: That's he gotten the mark. That he's joined him. Officially. -RL

You: [.....] Oh-JP

Stranger: Yeah. Oh. -RL

You: For the first time, Moony. I'm speechless-JP

Stranger: I didn't think I'd live to see the day. -RL

Stranger: I was trying to hide it from him. I should have told him myself. -RL

You: I knew he was like them, but I never thought he'd join-JP

You: Would you telling him have made his reaction any different?-JP

Stranger: I don't know.. Anything might be better than this. -RL

You: You might want to come over. He's not...looking good-JP

Stranger: I'm on my way. -RL

You: Sirius didn't look good either, what James had said was not an exaggeration. While he was staring blankly at the same space, he'd gotten paler. Though unresponsive, his breathing had gotten slightly more erratic, and it now looked as if Sirius was almost going to be sick. It was impossible to tell if he was conscious or not, but he was quickly getting worse in state and nothing James tried could cure it. Not speaking to him, not touching his shoulder or playing with his hair, playing his favorite music wouldn't snap him out of it, getting in his way didn't do much. He was completely blank, but beginning to crumble and James was admittedly scared. It wasn't until Remus got there that he could even begin to feel relief, though it wasn't relief that Sirius was getting better, it was relief that he had some help in this. "I've tried everything" he murmured, shrugging over to Sirius. "I can't get him to move"

Stranger: Remus felt as if his lungs may actually be crawling up his throat as he ran. He had never been much of an athlete but running the twenty three flights of stairs between the library and the Gryffindor common room would turn anyone's cheeks red. He stumbled through the portrait hole, dropping his books onto the nearest empty seat before continuing up the steps (on considerably more shaky legs) toward his dorm. He tried to catch his breath at the door, swollowed hard, running his thin fingers though tawny hair with one hand as he pushed the door open with the other. He saw James first, giving him a nod. His heard sunk in his chest at the sight of his.. Well. At the sight of Sirius. He nodded "Right.. " he said quietly, not knowing what else to say. He walked across the room slowly, standing in front Sirius. He tried to catch the other boys eye, slipping his hands onto his shoulders and sighing "I'm so sorry Sirius.." He breathed out, barely above a whisper, just for them to hear.

You: He'd been getting worse, the imagery in his mind of what this mean growing to lengthy proportions, holing Sirius up further and further away from reality. Even though they were always estranged, and Sirius had never really been a part of the family, he still had wanted to protect Regulus. Even when the punishments were so much harsher on him, he knew Regulus faced them as well. And now he'd gone and made this decision. A deadly decision. An inherently wrong decision and there was nothing Sirius could do to stop him. Even if they killed off Voldemort and managed to save Regulus, it wouldn't be him anymore. The war had really begun, it had finally, solidly begun in Sirius's mind. It was no more stirrings or bad stories that hadn't quite touched him yet, it was official, and Sirius was dangerously close to it. It took him a while to process that Remus was there and that he was sorry, but after almost two minutes of silence, Sirius broke. The air sucking out of him with an audible sound, Sirius crumpled over, trying to find the room to breathe. He hadn't yet said anything, but he'd been freed from where he'd locked himself up in thought and how hew as just processing pain, gasping for air and red in the face, crumpled up in front of Remus as James could only somewhat helplessly look on.

Stranger: It happened as if in slow motion. Remus eyes never once left Sirius' face. He saw each twinge until finally he broke. Remus reacted instinctively. He twisted his fingers in the fabric of the other boys shirt and pulled him close for fear his knees might just give out. He pulled Sirius against him, his other arm wrapping tightly around his neck and his hand finding its way to his hair. He gave his head a small shake as he began to run his fingers through the dark curls of the other boy "It's okay... Breathe Pads.." He whispered against his ear, slowly dropping to the floor when the weight of the other became to much. He pulled Sirius with him, careful not to let him go "Oh Sirius" he let out in a shuddering breath "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.." He found himself choking out. He realised for the first time that his vision has become blurred, tears were rolling down his cheeks and he hadn't even noticed, like his body couldn't help but mimic the pain that his best friend, his Sirius was feeling. He looked up at James. At any other time he might have felt embarrassed or awkward at being caught like this with Sirius. All he could feel now was a helpless despair.

You: Everything hurt. His head, his heart, his body as it hit the floor and crashed into Remus's arms. Everything about him ached with a feeling that wouldn't leave him. And he tried to find air, he tried to do what Remus was asking of him, but every movement he made felt red hot with needles pricking him. He was deaf but he could hear everything, the rushing of blood in his ears, Remus's pleas, the breaths the two of them were making though Sirius's were much more labored. And it kept going on, it felt like an eternity before Sirius could even make so much as half a normal breath, and even at that his body was still shaking. He didn't know he had the ability to talk until probably minutes later, when he was curled in an awkward, nervous ball around Remus, listening to him asking him to breathe again, and continuing to give his apologies. Hands balling into fists along Remus's shirt, Sirius let out a few deep coughs and hid himself deeper against the fabric of his...well, of the comfort that Remus's sweater provided. "I-I-" He choked out, coughing a few more times after that. "I can't breathe. I'm s-s-orry. Rem. S-Sorry"

[ship-all-ships]

MorMor

Stranger: [Sebastian was setting up his sniper rifle in a building when a rival criminal group rigged it to explode, knowing he was preparing for an assassination. Sebastian is now buried in the rubble, Est.] You really need to take better care of yourself. I love you so much, you'll need to look after yourself without me there. Can you promise me you'll do that? SM

You: Sebastian, what are you talking about?-JM

Stranger: Nothin' honest. SM

Stranger: Just promise. SM

You: Sebastian. You tell me what's happened right now-JM

Stranger: Was in the north stairwell. I'm not sure how much came down. SM

You: [....] I'll have a rescue team right now. You just stay where you are, alright?-JM

Stranger: promise. SM

You: You keep talking to me-JM

Stranger: Please, just take care of yourself. SM

You: I am. I'm finding you-JM

Stranger: Kitten, I'm buried. SM

You: And I'll get a big machine and unbury you-JM

You: You're still conscious, I can get you out. I have a team already searching-JM

You: Scream or something. Let them help you-JM

Stranger: Darling. SM

Stranger: I just need to rest, that's all. SM

You: I've got dogs looking. You'll get out of here, I'll make sure of it-JM

Stranger: i'm not asking to make it out. SM

Stranger: just need to make sure you do. SM

You: From now on, consider the two synonymous-JM

Stranger: Then promise. SM

You: Only if you promise to get out of here-JM

Stranger: I'll try. SM

You: Sebastian-JM

You: Can you hear anything?-JM

Stranger: I think, yeah. My head is spinning, Jim. SM

You: Find a way to get their attention. Just hang on closer-JM

Stranger: Alright, alright. SM

Stranger: Just be careful, I'm pinned. SM

You: I'll let them know-JM

You: What's pinning you? Where is it at?-JM

Stranger: I think it's the window, or what's left. SM

You: Okay. Okay. Someone's coming-JM

Stranger: I'm going to rest. SM

You: Stay awake Sebastian-JM

Stranger: Two minutes. SM

Stranger: Just two minutes. SM

You: Just breathe, please. You'll be alright-JM

Stranger: Shhh. SM

You: Sebastian-JM

Stranger: SHHH. SM

You: What?-JM

Stranger: They've passed me I think. SM

You: I'll tell them to go back. They're going to find you-JM

You: I'll keep calling you until they hear it-JM

Stranger: [...] Sorry that i won't be making dinner. SM

You: I don't care about dinner. Scream. For fucks sake do something, Sebastian-JM

Stranger: Right. SM

You: [....] I love you-JM

Stranger: [no response]

You: Sebastian-JM

Stranger: [no response]

You: SEBASTIAN-JM

Stranger: [no response] ((paras?? I'm not leaving this))

You: ((yeah no I'd love to! I can start, just give me a second))

You: There were no responses from anybody. Sebastian wasn't talking, his team wasn't talking. He was completely in the dark, and for the first time in a very long while, Jim started to panic. He couldn't let Sebastian die, he couldn't let him. He didn't know what he'd do with himself. It took an entire terrifying thirty minutes before he got a reply from his team, saying that they had a team working on unburying Sebastian, that they were almost finished, and that he was in rough shape. It took another hour before they'd called an ambulance, and another half hour before he had a place where he could go to. He was shaking, Sebastian would need a lot of medical attention. Surgery, and months of healing and therapy. But Jim didn't care. He just wanted his Tiger back. He was irritated and snippy, and mad at everything. Yelling at doctors helped, smoking the rest of Sebastian's cheap cigarettes that Jim hated helped, but nothing would be better until Sebastian was.

Stranger: ((have we skipped time? I'm fine if we have, just don't wanna confuse anyone))

You: ((oh yeah time skipping is totally fine!))

Stranger: Sebastian didn't like the way Jim had been acting ever since he'd gotten out of hospital, or rather since declining his offer for dinner just moments before he'd finally succumb to sleep.. But then again there wasn't much to enjoy about his life while still kept up in their flat like an animal. "Dinner?" Seb asked carefully, hoping he would finally have the chance to make dinner according to plan. "I'll do it if you'll let me" he offered, smiling softly in an attempt to keep Jim from fleeing to the balcony with yet another cigarette.

You: He was weak still, just barely getting better from where he had been. The torment of seeing his Sebastian in the hospital for so long, and now, back in the flat but not completely back to normal, he could barely handle it. The stress was enough, but the guilt of not being able to do anything to expedite this process. This was entirely on Sebastian, and Jim had to pick up every bit of slack. It was hard. He wanted to baby Sebastian, to keep him from hurting himself again. Especially when it was hard for him to stand for too long, or move his arms in certain ways. The silence between them had become more normal, as had the offers for dinner. Tonight, he was in the middle of watching his Sebastian after a rather difficult OT session for him. "I'm not hungry" he murmured after a moment, checking the messages on his phone before standing up, heading towards the balcony again.

Stranger: Scrap dinner, scrap anything that wouldn't calm the other man. "Alright.. Just lay with me, please." Sebastian offered up quickly before Jim would gain any more steps towards that door. "I.." he stopped once he saw the criminal's fingers brush the door. "I'm sorry, for all this mess." he cooed, shifting the bedsheets so he'd be able to hold Jim away from the balcony, and away from those nasty cigarettes.

You: That stopped Jim, but not in a good way. He shouldn't be sorry for this mess. It wasn't his fault. It was Jim's, someone had gotten word of where he was, what was happening, and it caused Sebastian all of this pain. It was Jim's fault he couldn't get better doctors, or make this less painful for him. It was his fault that he was being so distant with Sebastian. He had nothing to apologize for. At first, Jim had been afraid to share a bed with him again, it had taken weeks for Sebastian to convince him he wouldn't break. Jim just wasn't taking any chances. "Tiger" The criminal finally said, his hand dropping. "You know this isn't your fault"

Stranger: Sebastian sighed, hand shakingly reaching for the sheet again out of nervous habit. Jim hadn't done anything to hurt him, not directly. That's all you could ever hope for in their line of work. "I know that, but I'm sorry for what it's done to you.." He murmured after a moment's silence, looking up to ensure that Jim wouldn't worry about the tears making way down his face. "I miss my kitten,"

You: Sebastian was crying. Sebastian didn't cry. In all the years that Jim had known Sebastian, he'd only cried when things were really bad. Had Jim been worrying him that much? Did it show how badly it hurt with him that his Sebastian was this concerned. Face falling along with his spirit, Jim sighed and hung his head. "I'm right here, Sebastian" he murmured, the tone in his voice falling flat. "Please, don't take responsibility for this, alright? Just...please"

Stranger: "Promise. I asked you to promise to take care of yourself, and here you are.." Sebastian stopped, a moment to clear himself before offering a hand out to take Jim's "I don't ever want you to worry about me, ever." He nodded to the pack of cigarettes so obviously in Jim's pocket. "None of this was your fault. I was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and unless you've been hiding a detonation code from me for this long.. You've absolutely nothing to feel so sorry for" Se

You: Sebastian didn't like Jim smoking, but they were his old pack that he started on. And it did help, it helped calm his nerves for a moment, let his brain work again. In Jim's mind, taking care of himself was getting through the day. That's always how it had been. And now, this was how he got through the day. "I'm taking care of you, Tiger. That's the opposite of our original contract" he said, moving over to Sebastian's bedside and sitting on the gap of the mattress. He took Sebastian's hand and squeezed it, giving him a bit of a sad look. "And I don't mind that I'm doing it, mind you. But you're more important"

Stranger: "Let's fix it. I wanna take care of you. This never should have happend." He murmured. Perhaos he couldn't cook like he used too, but there was still hope. "You lay here for a while, yeah? I won

Stranger: ((shite, one sec))

You: ((haha it's alright!))

Stranger: "Let's fix it. I wanna take care of you. This never should have happened." He murmured. Perhaps he couldn't cook like he used too, but there was still hope. "You lay here for a while, yeah? I won't fall, before you ask.. just rest." Sebastian assured with a small kiss to the back of Jim's hand before shuffling out into the kitchen.

You: What was he doing? No, Jim did not like this. He did not like one instance of this. Sebastian shouldn't be up and shuffling like this. He should be resting, getting better and taking care of himself. It didn't take Jim more than a minute before he was up and following after Sebastian. "And just what do you think you're doing?" He asked, getting over to Sebastian quickly. "Sebastian, please. You're being ridiculous"

Stranger: "Back to bed, tiger" Sebastian teased, concentrating on pulling his arm up high enough to reach into their cabinets. "You've been ridiculous, too /darling/" he sighed, opting for the lower cabinets and scraping the salad idea. "I should never be more important than you, the sooner that you realise that.. the better."

You: "Sebastian" Jim said, walking over and blocking his aim, looking up at the cabinet to try and understand what he was aiming for. "Please, go sit down" He said. "There's all glass in there, you'll drop it and it'll break. Just....let me handle it" Jim said. In all honestly, Jim was a terrible cook, and he desperately missed what Sebastian would make for him, but he was more concerned about Sebastian staying safe now. "I can make...." He tried to state, but had no idea what was in the fridge anymore. He couldn't remember the last time he'd gone and gotten groceries. "I don't know. What if we just order out?" He suggested, at the end of his rope already.

Stranger: "Just hand it to me then, alright? I wanna cook for you, you can help if that makes you feel better but if we get take away one more time I swear." Sebastian sighed, already seeing the way his hands trembled without anything in them. "I miss cooking for you, and it won't be like this forever"

You: It already felt like it had been forever. Sebastian had ben making such good progress, but it had felt like an eternity since Jim had felt safe in the man's arms, or been shagged real good by him. It had been forever since he hadn't worried about him, and the amount of worry only hurt even more. "We don't have shit in the house" Jim said, leaning back against the counter, debating on smoking up right then and there in the room. "What the hell are we going to make?"

Stranger: "We've bread, cheese, butter? Yeah? Grilled cheese, tomato sou--" Sebastian started, opening a lower cabinet to find whatever remained of their soup, only to be greeted by a few old cans of lord knows what. "Or not..." he assured, looking around hopefully. "Maybe we should order out.. just don't force me back in bed afterwards. yeah?" Seb cooed, wrapping an arm around Jim's chest for stability, but also for the opportunity to be so close to his skin again, skin that should otherwise be riddled in lovebites.

You: It felt weird to have Sebastian holding him like this again, but he missed it. He'd been starved of it, actually, and getting it back again, he realized just how much he'd missed this. Nearly purring, Jim nuzzled against Sebastian, kissing at his clavicle gently. "How about telly, in the living room afterwords" He murmured. "I'll even let you order the takeout, if you'd like"

Stranger: "Alright kitten, just keep yourself quiet over there, yeah?" He chuckled, only tightening his grip momentarily before letting go entirely, having to fish out his phone as they moved to the couch. "You can pick anything to watch as long as I can hold you, yeah?" Sebastian whispered before dialing.

You: That sounded like an awfully good deal for Jim's side. He could watch whatever he wanted, and cuddle up next to Sebastian anyway. Smiling, he trailed after Sebastian, a bit like a puppy, and sat down on the sofa once they'd gotten there. He didn't even care what Sebastian had ordered for dinner. He just wanted a day to not be stressed. He wanted to be able to stay in Sebastian's arms for a long while.

Stranger: Sebastian returned moments later with a blanket, remembering just how much warmth he used to be able to provide, but now with his slimmer frame it only seemed right to makeup whatever Jim had lost. "We've got an hour, so behave yourself." he chided before tossing the blanket over them both and wrapping his arms around Jim's waist so they could lie down together at best.

[ship-all-ships]

Wolfstar love

You're now chatting with a random stranger. Say hi!

You both like wolfstar.

Stranger: [set during the 1st Wizarding War; sent through magic parchment. Feel free to be Remus, James, or even some enemy that's caught them] Major Tom to Ground Control; Bowie references be damned this is an actual check in this time round. Mission's turning into a right doozie, huh? SB Can't find Wormtail for the life of me. You clots fairing any better? SB

You: I don't know what better looks like, but it's unlikely. Can you get back any time soon?-RL

Stranger: ..That bad, huh? SB I can try. SB Scratch that - where do you need me and how soon? SB

You: I don't know. I don't know where we are, but I'm going to try and apparate us back as close to base as possible. Meet us at the safe house-RL

Stranger: Don't go to base if it's getting that thick! Go near one of our portkeys, Moony! SB Last thing you want's to be tracked this late in the game. SB

You: I don't know if I can get us both there. Prongs is knocked out and bleeding, and I can't carry him-RL

Stranger: Shit. SB Shit crud bloody /BOLLOCKS/. SB

Stranger: Okay. Okay, you take Prongs and I'll cover you. Think you can heal him up on your own though? SB

Stranger: I am /not/ keen on letting our Peetey wander aimlessly on his own. Hoping that's what's he's up to at the moment that is. SB

You: If we leave now, I can get us to cover. I don't know what hit him, I don't know how to fix it right now-RL

You: If we can get to the safe house, we can let others know what happened, they can go looking for him-RL

Stranger: [delayed] Christ. SB I'm a shit healer, Moony. My skills are out here where reflexes and the ability to bash a door in with one's noggin can actually be of use to someone. SB

Stranger: It's really that bad..? SB

You: I don't know. I turned around for one moment and he was on the ground, bleeding from his forehead. He won't respond to me, but I haven't seen much more that's damaging-RL

You: I'm hoping someone is there and can help. It's-RL

You: We're leaving now. Get ready to cover-RL

Stranger: I've got you. Don't worry there. SB

You: It was a disaster. He didn't know just how things had gone to shit as quickly as they had been, but on what was supposed to be a rather easy mission to uphold, he'd managed one man down, and had gotten himself injured in the process of even getting to him. But he had enough energy to apparate to where they needed to be. In one fellow swoop, Remus had managed to look around and grasp his surroundings, swallow down the nausea rising in his stomach, push himself up and levicorpus James far enough to the threshold of the door, pulling him in the rest of the way before collapsing, untangling himself from James and getting him onto the ground, but he was growing dizzy. He couldn't make it farther than just inside, and it sounded like there was a fight going on out there. He should be helping Sirius, he should be keeping up with the fight, but he couldn't. He couldn't and it hurt, but he'd gotten this far. Sirius would get back to them, he'd manage. He knew he would.

Stranger: Although his arm was stinging him something fierce, Sirius was grateful it hadn't been a hit to his dominant hand and kept it at that. Things would be much easier if he focused on their solutions rather than their obstacles. So it was for this very reason that Sirius took to counting out his gratitude in time with his careful pacing and flicks of the good wrist he wasn't keeping clenched tightly to his side. 1. Remus and James were accounted for and a hairs breath from the security of a nice seal up in the safe house. 2. Remus, it seemed, was still entirely like himself on parchment and ever the forward thinker. Which was good for many reasons, including Sirius' frequent aversion to forward thinking of any sort. 3. Peter wasn't a dullard. 4. James was tough. 5. There was simply no way the universe could be cruel enough to split up their chosen family when they were this close to their home. 6. Home was wherever the fuck his best mates were, and they were /this close/ to being safe inside their next temporary residence. Sirius pointedly did /not/ think about why the /devil/ Remus hadn't bothered to close the sodding door yet. Thankfully, he didn't have too much time to dwell on worrying.

You: James was pale, paler than he'd ever seen the sod, and the blood was bad. He would have to heal it, but what was the spell that would get it to clot? His thoughts weren't aligned, and it was throwing him off his game. Grunting, he stopped trying to think of any solution and pulled off his shirt, pressing that to the wound the muggle way. He was counting his breaths. Counting to seven, then breathing out, reminding himself to stay upright until he could hear Sirius. He hadn't even remembered that the door was open, that he hadn't been able to reach for it and set it closed. He'd been focused on only two things: 1. Get James and him to safety 2. Stay focused. He had been forward thinking enough to keep them together, but apparition had made him worse for ware than he'd thought it would. It was too fast and dizzying, it had made his brain stop working. "Shit, Shit. James, come on mate. You've got to come out of this" He hummed, a mantra to himself, his hands getting shaky as more time went on. Just when he was certain they were gone for, he heard Sirius shuffling in. Looking up, he grinned at Sirius, realizing he was injured as well. "Well, this is unfortunate" He chuckled, looking over at the other before loosing his grip.

Stranger: Other things Sirius did not think about may or may not have been speculation for what could cause Remus to forget to close the door. Why Peter wasn't answering his parchment. How much blood was in the driveway and how much more someone could be expected to lose before it caused a real problem. A problem of the irreversible sort. James wasn't a small fellow, unlike Sirius, so that meant he could afford to be generous with the bleeding didn't it? Sirius liked to think he didn't not easily frighten, but now he was less convincing with a catch in his throat and a frenzied gait to his wand as he sent offensive spells sailing through the air. Terrified. Was not a word Sirius so easily let describe his mindset, but the whole of his friends may as well be missing if he didn't know for certain they were safe. Everyone worth caring for in this blasted world, for all he knew, was unwell. As far as Sirius was concerned, most days it was just this handful number. Just this handful of kids too young to march about like they were adults. Playing war instead of playing house. Soon as he could managed it, Sirius was dashing up the stairs two at a time. Slamming the door behind him as he went. Kneeling by Remus and James with a look in his eye that could only be called frightened, Sirius smoothed a hand over the ridges Remus had bunched up on his forehead. His gaze flickered back to James' unsteady breathing. "How's he doing? H-how is, how are you? What do you need me doing, Remus?"

Stranger: sorry if I ever get too wordy. You're just a really good writer and are giving me all sorts of ideas for replies but please don't ever feel stressed to match length))

You: What did he need him doing? What didn

You: ((ahh sorry! But dont' worry you're a wonderful writer too! I love your replies!))

Stranger: np!! and ahh ty and awesome!))

You: What did he need him doing? What didn't he need him doing. He needed to be able to think, and to stop the bleeding. He needed to understand what was happening, what had happened. They'd gotten so far off of their trail, and honestly, Remus was certain that if he hadn't been more aware of where this safe house was, he would have managed to get them lost. But Sirius was here, he'd protected the area, that much he knew, and he was willing to help. If only Remus knew where to start. "The spell" he eventually said, leaning into James's hand. He was starting to get tired, but he knew he had to keep up. "Cheering charm" he said, pointing weakly to himself before flicking his eyes over at James. "Fix that. The spell for that" He said. "The muggle way-i's not working" he was rambling, sitting back against the entryway's wall. It was cold, he could taste a familiar metallic on the inside of his cheek, and they were exactly what he needed to keep him through his. "Send a letter. Get whoever you can to help. Help James first" He said, pressing his cheek against the wall. He'd forgotten that he'd managed to injure himself as well. He was more concerned about the blood on his hands that wasn't his own.

Stranger: A cheering charm was easy enough for Sirius, who had always rather struggled at healing magic, to preform for Remus. Besides, if he couldn't keep two out of three of their dwindling number awake they really would be out in the woods. So to speak. (Do not wonder if that's where Peter is. Be it literally or in the more worrying, metaphorical sense.) Sirius rung his hands as he tried to think of what he could do for James' own condition. Ultimately he settled for a bland Episkey till he could wrack his mind thoroughly enough for something a /sneeze/ more effective than what James used to heal split lips whenever Sirius worried at his own a little too enthusiastically. Episkey was a far cry from his best bet, but it was something to tide them over till Sirius could scour his brain for the proper alternative. "Stay awake now, Lupin," Sirius muttered darkly. "I need you awake." He continued, cursing himself internally when the best he could think to follow up with was a Reparifors for James. "Who are we writing first, R-remus? Who are we writing to first?"

You: Who are we writing first? Who all did they have to write? No doubt, Lily would want to hear about James's condition. He wanted to write Mckinnon, but they'd lost her all to shortly ago. She was wonderful at healing magic, even though she was one of the toughest girls he knew. Maybe those two had a good fit. /Stay awake Lupin/ He thought and blinked himself up, pushing his body forward a bit more. /Stay awake/. "Dumbledore" He whispered. He'd know the best action to take next. "Lily" Was next from his lips, followed by a weak "Longbottoms" The Longbottoms would be great for looking for Peter. They were smart, and much better at tracking than most of the other people they had available now. "You're hurt" he mumbled after a moment. "What is it? What.....What's happened to you?"

Stranger: "Good, good," Sirius mumbled half heartedly, face taken up with scanning James' for any sign of the usual bubbly mirth and easy tomfoolery their friend often displayed hand in hand to appease any on lookers when he was conscious and ailed. No such luck. He was struck when Remus reminded him of his own wounds, and Sirius rather obviously turned the side with the brunt of his abrasions away from Reumus' immediate gaze. "'m fine, Moony," he dismissed. "Just.. I just need you to write for me, yeah? To any one of them," Sirius said. "Any- any of them can get the others down here. We just need someone else /down here/," someone more competent than myself, "we just need someone else round to give us a hand." Someone more confident than myself. Odd though the thought Sirius may actually confront any misgivings he may have of himself might be. He was already putting pressure on the harsher of James' wounds and crowding his ear by the Potter's chest. Checking for a pulse, albeit without the /exact/ method Remus had initially taught them.

You: He needed to write? Oh. Okay. Stay awake, write a letter, keep James alright. Lily first then. She was clever, oh so clever, and she wasn't part of tonight's mission. Write a letter, send it to Lily. Pulling the last bit of parchment he had out of his jacket, Remus began to slowly write to the other, though his hand had gotten much shakier, and his wording simpler. At the end of everything it wrote "Lils, bad news at the safe house. Need help, whoever you can bring. Love, Rem" Then, he held it up and handed it to Sirius. "He's hurt?" He asked, looking down at James with a frown. It took him a moment to push himself up to look closer, but James didn't look good. He really didn't look good, and the memory around what had happened was very fuzzy, Remus was growing more nauseous. "I thought someone was s'posed to be here" he murmured. "Just send that. She'll be here soon. She has to, she's fast"

Stranger: Remus himself looked less than entirely fiddle fit. "Sit down, mate," he advised. "I just need you awake, M-moony. C-can you do that for me?" Sirius turned yet again on the floor, leaning over the places his hand was clutching blood soaked wool to James' injuries to hide the way the both of his hands had begun to shake. "Just. Just stay awake for now." Sirius whistled, and in a wink Peter's over excitable owl was bounding over the stairs, snatching up the letter he passed off to her. Much to Sirius' relief. He rested his head back against the bookcase, licking around his mouth for some moisture.

You: Sirius was doing such a good job of taking charge, Remus thought. He always was good at getting out of situations, but getting through situations Remus usually needed to help him with. When it came to staying calm and taking care of the damage, Remus was the one to go to. He was used to having to take care of his own, taking care of other's was just second nature. But now his brain was all messed around and funny feeling, and Sirius was taking on his own. And he was managing, Remus thought. Nodding at the other, he went back to slumping against the wall, watching the moment. "You're holding up?" He asked, though he meant it more as a statement. He was doing well, even in this ever growing bad situation. "Who hit you?" He asked after a moment. "What spell was it?"

Stranger: In direct juxtaposition to his usual bragging, Sirius was remarkably reticent to answer Remus' questions right now. "I," he swallowed, pushing his top lip under its bottom in a vain stall for time. "Oh, you know how it goes." He chuckled somewhat breathlessly. "Just another one of my perturbed inbred cousins. Out to prove there's no irony in my being the Black Sheep of House Black." He knew how the others got when he fought with his family. Even after all these years it was hard to keep bitterness out from his tone, or Sirius' obvious lack of comprehension for why it might be so troubling that his own blood were often the ones most keen to clash with him the hardest.

You: The mood of the room had changed so quickly with Remus's question, he wondered if a draft had come in. In an instant, the mood had gone from desperate to despondent, and it took Remus a bit to comprehend that he had done that. Frowning, he thought of what he could do to make the mood better, but with his head swimming and leg starting to ache, there wasn't much he could do. Instead he reminded himself to stay awake. Lily would be here soon, she'd bring people here. They'd get better and back on their feet in no time. That's what he had to keep telling himself, even if he kept loosing bits of what he was saying. "Y'know" Remus mumbled after a few moments of tense silence. "I told your cousin, the crazy one with the laugh. I told her she could suck my furry cock, then blew a spell so hard she was dazed, and disarmed. I broke her wand. I think she got the message" He chuckled. "Her face. It was hanging out like-" He stated, bugging his eyes out and dropping his jaw, his eyes rolling into his head as he made a bit of a croak before coming back "-and all she could say was some stupid generic mudblood threat, and then she was gone. You would've loved it, honestly"

Stranger: brb sorry!))

You: ((haha you're fine!))

Stranger: ty!!))

Stranger: Sirius chuckled at that. "As I live and breath, Moony." He said, "you are my muse. My inspiration." Blinking drowsily to clear the spots from his vision, Sirius squeezed James' blood covered area with Remus' ruined top, wrinkling up his nose thanks to the sound, scent, and feel of it all. "Bet you my right arse cheek she's not even caught on to your references to your time of the month in that one," Sirius chuckled. "Daft moron." Scowling down at a series of spots dancing over his eyes, Sirius blinked furiously once more to clear them. "She is she is," he said, as if Remus needed more convincing. "Next time I ought to be there though." He sighed. "Kiss you right then and there for the effort," Sirius quickly followed to covr up his guilt.

You: Remus smiled, but he could tell that Sirius was starting to get worse. This whole situation was starting to get worse. If only Lily would fucking get here. They needed help. "Next time lets not split up" Remus murmured. Splitting up was only proving to be a bad idea, though he doubted any of them would be out doing much for the time being. They all had to heal. "Are you.......can you do it?" He asked, trying to focus in on Sirius and James, on the exact issue at hand. "Maybe we should have called Dumbledore. He's fast. He's.....something"

Stranger: "Agreed," Sirius said, letting his gaze wither downcast once more. Biting his lip now and digging the worse of his hands under the other arm's pit. Clamping down to keep the one still in hopes of reeling in the other. Certainly he couldn't expect moon-eyed Moony to hold the cloth to James right now, so Sirius would just have to make do. Shaking and all. "Do it?" He repeated, finally realizing he'd not needed to shift his gaze back to Remus since he'd been sort of staring at the guy for the past few minutes. "What do you need done, Moony?"

You: "James" Remus replied. He looked like he was getting weaker and it was concerning to Remus. He didn't know how much he could do, but he might be able to help. "I can...I can do the work if you can bring him here like this" he explained, patting his chest, trying to instruct Sirius to sit James up against him. "Then you can....do the lying down. Lily will be here soon, yeah? She's not far. We're not far. She's coming"

Stranger: Sirius' gaze sobered at just the name's utterance alone. His lips pulled into a tight line. Tighter than Sirius had intended, and it pulled uncomfortably at a new scab he'd recently worried into his upper lip. Unease slipped into Sirius' bloodstream in time with the pounding of his heart and he was glad, so so fucking glad, that James was out cold for this. That would slow his bleeding some, right? Were things not slowed down when the heart rate wasn't racing mad and wild like his must had been. "Ju-jus," Sirius took in another quick breath. "Jus' stay awake, Moons."

You: "I am awake" Remus murmured. He was a sad excuse for awake, but he was conscious. "I'm tired and dizzy and nauseous, but I'm awake. And i's my leg that hurts, not my arms" He argued. "I could-could help. I think you're feeling like me. And tha's not good" He explained. He wanted to help, he wanted help to be on the way, he wanted something. They needed it, and immediately. But just then he heard movement. Maybe that was good, maybe that meant help was on the way. "You hear that?" he whispered, looking around his surroundings, only making himself dizzier. "Think they're here?"

Stranger: brb sorry

You: ((haha it's fine! I'm actually falling asleep atm. If you want to continue [which I would love I love this rp so much] my email is thatrandomperson@live.com))

Stranger: yeah, sorry, I keep getting pulled away irl on my end rn. I'll save your email and email you in the morning, but I'll warn my schedule is kinda all over the place rn so I might not be on as often as I'd like for email))

Stranger: I totes understand if that doesn't work for you though))

You: ((haha that's totally fine! I'm going back to school next week so it'll be hectic for me too!))

Stranger: sweet! ditto! i'll wish you some sweet dreams and ttyl then!!))

Stranger has disconnected.

[ship-all-ships]

Stranger: [Modern Fantasy AU: Your character is a seer, someone that can see the future. Their visions are often unpredictable and can even knock out the seer depending on how powerful the vision is. Because Seers are often unable to defend themselves from the many dangers that they face, Each seer is bound to a Guardian at the age of 18 after they finish their respective schooling. Alex Moran-Moriarty is bound to your character and the two of them are traveling the countryside when they entered a small town. Your character fainted after spouting out a vision about fire and they're currently in an inn.] Alex Moran Moriarty traced the tattooed chains on his wrist as he waited for a stir from the bed. While it wasn't unusual for a Seer to suddenly get visions and faint, this vision was different and even shook Alex to his core. The moment they stepped foot in the little fishing village, Alex could tell that a vision was coming based on the stance and the clouded look in their eyes. That was followed by the vision. "I see fire! Smoke. Darkness...will die..." and that's when it ended, followed by a faint. Alex, by now, was used to catching them after a vision and was easily directed to the nearest inn. Seers and their Guardians were treated weill in towns, thankfully, so it was no issue getting a joint room. Now, the issue was what the vision exactly was. Alex was torn away from his thoughts from stirring on the bed and he looked up, smiling some when he saw opened eyes. "Hello, sunshine." The Irishman said, reaching out and brushing at the other's hair. "You feeling alright? Besides tired?" He asked.

You: Waking up after a vision often made things fuzzy. The soft light around Alex's face, followed by nausea and confusion. He was used to spending a bit of time in bed after falling unconscious, Alex was always good about making sure he was comfortable and ready to travel before they actually did, so when he saw the other's lopsided smile, Hamish couldn't help but do the same. But he didn't feel like smiling, he didn't feel like anything but more sleep. Maybe another blanket. His vision was swimming more than he was used to, and his head actually ached, along with the joints in his body. Worse than after a usual vision-at least one that would turn him unconscious. "This one was bad" He mumbled, closing his eyes again as he tried to settle himself. "Where are we? I-" he didn't remember where they'd been. He'd been unsettled the whole day. He was missing a bit of time, time he was certain would come back to him with rest. He hoped they were in a decent sized town though, they might be stuck here for a little while.

Stranger: Alex was just glad to see Hamish awake. Being worn out was normal after a vision, especially after one that seemed as intense as the one Hamish had. Alex was just glad that he moved quickly and didn't allow Hamish to seriously hurt his head when he fainted. At least they were able to get a joint room so Alex could keep an easy eye on Hamish in case he worsened. Not that he planned on sleeping anyway. It was already past dinnertime and dark outside and as long as Hamish wasn't feeling the best, Alex would be up and keeping an eye on him. He'd need a lot of Irish coffee to keep himself awake. Reaching over, Alex gave Hamish a small bottle of water. "We're in the town of Reunion." Alex announced, offering a small smile. "Small town, sadly, but not so small that they're boring. We'll be fine here for a day or two." He assured the other, then brushed at Hamish's hair gently, in a soothing manner. "If you're tired, get some rest. Or we can look at food." He offered.

You: All he could do at the mention of food was grunt. That didn't sound bad, but it didn't sound terribly great either. His body was protesting to just being alive right now, it seemed. But something about the town was unsettling. Something was keeping Hamish very unsettled, which hadn't been a feeling he'd had this intense since he realized his seeing abilities could hurt him, and thought the lack of control would kill him. Forcing his eyes open again, he took the bottle of water and sat himself up, sipping at it lightly. "What....did I say anything?" He asked, pushing himself up more and faltering, falling into Alex's side. He didn't remember feeling this weak after a vision before, and he didn't like it. "I'm missing time, Lex. That hasn't happened since...since...Istanbul?"

Stranger: Alex didn't move to get food just yet, not really wanting to leave Hamish for a second. Who knew what would happen while he was gone? Especially after a vision, Alex wouldn't take that chance. When Hamish tried to stand and only proceeded to fall into Alex, the Guardian easily caught the other. "Woah." He said and gave a small smile once more. "No more standing up for a bit. That really took a lot of you." He noted, then realized what Hamish was staying. The last time something like this had happened had been months ago, after Hamish had a particularly strong vision. It had taken a lot out of him and the resulting chaos nearly got both of them killed. This wasn't good. "Yeah, I remember." He said, then watched him. "Can you remember exactly what the vision was about?"

You: Hamish could barely remember his name, or their goal in traveling right now. He knew he was in a nice bed, and Alex had his arms around him, but he was still utterly confused. He was tired and weak and really, really hating himself for it. The last time they'd been hung up after a vision, well he didn't much remember it. He remembered trying to fight off /something/ and waking up traveling again, with Alex slinging a protective arm around him. He finished recovering in the woods, when they couldn't find a safe place to stay. It sucked majorly. "I ahh" He said quietly, looking down at the blanket, his fingers playing with the fabric. "Not really. It was warm. Or I was warm" He blinked. "Do I have a fever?"

Stranger: "Nope. Already checked that." Alex said, then shook his head. It was clear that in Hamish's current state, He wasn't going to remember much. He barely seemed to be able to speak properly, never mind remembering a vision that brought him down to this level. "Hamish, you look worn out." Alex said, carefully putting the Seer back into bed and pulling the blanket around him. "You should rest. We'll try our best to remember shit in the morning, when you don't look like death warmed over." He said and offered a small smile at that. It wasn't the first time Alex had to stay up all night to keep an eye on Hamish. With some of Hamish's visions, he'd had to do it for days on end. At least Hamish allowed him to sleep like the dead after he was better.

You: Hamish smiled back at Alex and nodded. He never knew why Alex stayed up all night to watch Hamish sleep, because he knew that he would lay there and snore for hours, sometimes days. Well, twice it was days, but both of those he was rather certain he'd sustained a concussion. He never argued though, he felt much safer if Alex was close. He knew then that if anything happened, he'd be alright, or if he got worse, Alex would make him better. Sometimes he did the same, when Alex was sleeping like the dead. He'd sit and meditate, watching Alex snore. It was never eventful, but there often wasn't much to do if their clothes were clean and they were fed. Alex lead them on quests, Hamish was much too scatterbrained to plan. Besides, while sleeping they couldn't move much. "You don't have to stay. I can't be very entertaining" He mumbled, curling under the blanket-which was very comfortable and warm. It made it easier to relax. "Is there a healer in this town?" He asked with a yawn. "If this gets worse, I'll need.....something" He said, the word for the medication that would help completely escaping him.

Stranger: Alex was careful to stay close to Hamish, making sure that the other was comfortable. Call it part of being a Guardian or simply that Alex was overprotective, but he wanted to make sure Hamish was okay and comfortable, especially after a horrible vision. Really, it made him feel better, even if it did lead to sleep deprivation. Apparently, that was bad. "You're not, but I find ways to entertain myself." He said, smirking some before he let it fall at the mention of the healer. Great, this really was going to be another Istanbul. He hoped that the action was much less severe this time around. "There's a few, yes. I'll talk to the keeper and see whom he recommends." He said, patting the other's temple gently. "For now, let's see if a good night's rest will do it. Sleep. I'll be here." He promised.

You: He remembered the first time that he'd had a vision since becoming bound to Alex. Visions had always scared him growing up. He'd started getting them when he was four or five, some of them keeping him incapacitated for days, but mostly it was small premonitions until he got older. He always seemed to get them at the worst times, and he scared a lot of people with it. He was terrified of being too vulnerable, of getting in trouble, of seeing something that would kill him. He was absolutely petrified when he was told he'd be bound to someone, that they'd have to spend all their time with him. He'd get them in trouble, they'd abandon him, he wasn't certain but he felt like it would be terrible. Then he'd gotten Alex. After the first premonition, he'd been nice enough to break off some of his muffin and share it with him for comfort. After the first time he'd fallen unconscious, he'd woken up to a bit of a panicked Alex, but a concerned one who'd insisted on getting him the nicest things he could. He'd made sure he was rested and for the first time, Hamish had felt really safe. Now, it was no issue to agree with him and fall asleep at Alex's wish. "Curry" Hamish mumbled before he hid into his pillow. "F'r breakfast" he added before snoring, promptly falling back into sleep.

Stranger: Alex could only laugh when Hamish muttered 'Curry' for breakfast before he fell asleep. Of course he would order the weirdest things right after a vision. To be fair, after about two years of being bound to Hamish, he was used to it by now and one way or the other, he always got what Hamish wanted. Once again, call him being overprotective or even spoiling Hamish, but he liked him a bit. Alex had been a little nervous to be bound to a Seer. He'd always heard stories of how obnoxious they were, how they treated their Seers like shit or of how timid they were, how they couldn't even do basic defense, something ever Seer was taught. But Hamish was different, vastly different. He was kind, could easily defend himself if needed and he treated Alex like a partner, like a human and not a slave. He owed it to Hamish to make sure he was taken care of, especially since he treated Alex like a person and not a slave. As the other slept, Alex remained at his side, cleaning his weapons or even taking the time to draw the other sleeping. He always made sure, however, to keep a close eye on the other, just in case.

You: He fell into a deep sleep. He needed it, and his body knew that. And for many hours, he stayed still, snoring softly into his pillow. After a time though, when the moon was at it's highest point, he stirred. Sitting up, eyes closed most of the way, where only the whites could be seen, Hamish pushed himself out of bed and across the room. He stumbled around, looking for something, and not letting anyone touch him. Sleepwalking. He'd never been told he did it, though he was used to things being kept from him for his own good. Seeing glimpses of the future often came with dangers, and sometimes there were things he needed not to know about so that he didn't work himself up too much, get into trouble, or try and predict more than he could. Grabbing a knife, hidden in the deepest part of Hamish's bag, the seer opened up his palm, instantly dropping the knife a moment later. With his now free hand, he covered it in the blood oozing out of the other and began writing. Incoherent symbols, bits of words, attempts at pictures all smudged across the walls, on the floor, all while Hamish mumbled "It'll burn" and "destruction. It wakes" Finally, he turned to Alex, gasped, and fainted again, returning to his peaceful sleep where he was: on the floor in the corner of the room, now bleeding on his nice clothes.

Stranger: Alex knew about the sleepwalking. He'd been warned of that before he became bound to Hamish. It had been happening for most of his life and the elder Seers didn't want it known. Their thinking was that if Hamish knew, he'd never sleep again. That and sometimes it was beneficial. If nothing else, it made for interesting art in Inns, especially if the Innkeeper was rude. So when Hamish got up in the middle of the night while Alex was drawing, He stood up, but didn't get close to Hamish. The last time he'd tried that was when they first met and he'd ended up with a black eye. That hadn't been fun to explain off. Instead, he watched and made sure that the only injury Hamish got was on his hand and then watched as pictures, words and symbols were drawn in Hamish's blood. They made no sense and at the same time, they had to. Hamish wouldn't write them for nothing, not in his sleep. They had to mean something. While Hamish drew the symbols in blood, Alex sketched them in his sketchpad in pencil. Keeping track, Alex stopped only when Hamish did and fell to the floor, sleeping peacefully. With a deep sigh, Alex began the work of not only tending to Hamish, but the wall too. After bandaging Hamish's hand and making sure it wouldn't bleed again, Alex tucked the other into bed, then was quick to start cleaning the walls and the knife Hamish used. It was a long process and by the time Alex was done, it was sunrise and he was exhausted.

You: Hamish wasn't asleep for too much longer after Alex had finished cleaning. He was sore, he still felt weak and disoriented, but he might get some of his wits back when he eats. He was hungry, but then again, he couldn't remember the last time he ate. Bleary eyed, he watched Alex sighing, looking over his sketchpad. He looked exhausted, like he'd spent the whole night dancing or something. Was that how he kept himself entertained? Hamish couldn't help but chuckle at the thought, smiling when Alex looked up at him. "Good morning" he whispered, getting caught in a yawn just after. He took that as a que to stretch, curling up again on his side, feeling a bit more at peace. "Was I entertaining?" He asked, confident that he'd stayed in the exact same position all night, with Alex sitting there drawing him again. He'd seen a few of them, but never told Alex. He figured he'd be embarrassed, and Hamish found it endearing. He didn't really want Alex to stop.

[ship-all-ships]

dStranger: Remus woke. It was unseasonably cold in the Shrieking Shack. 'Just my luck' he thought as he attempted to roll over on his side. Then he felt it. The aching that permeated his very bones. He could hardly move without feeling as if he would fall apart. It had never, ever been this bad before. Normally, he'd be up and out of the shack by now, with a little help from Sirius, but his legs would hardly let him get to his knees, nevertheless stand and walk back to the castle. "S'rius...'' he breathed, his voice panicked and pained. "Sirius!"

You: It had been a bad day. A very, very bad day. The moon had been stronger, and although Sirius had researched and researched, and done everything he could to know what his Moony needed, he wasn't prepared. It had been stronger, the effects had lasted longer, and when Sirius thought he was safe, he wasn't. He was ready for the moon. He'd brought all of Remus's favorite things: his favorite jumper, the blanket that smelled like Sirius, his favorite tea, and lot's of chocolate. He was ready to let Remus ease out of this one quietly and in his arms, and to carry him back when they were both ready, but he'd misjudged his time. Remus hadn't fully changed back when he'd confronted him, but Sirius hadn't known. He'd been thrown against the room, and if it wasn't for the large furniture that had pinned him in place, he would have likely been attacked more. Falling unconscious, he wasn't aware of when Remus woke until he heard the other screaming for him. And even then, he was so far away that he barely recognized it. Just beginning to stir, Sirius felt the pain in his back, in his neck, radiating down his body. One ear was ringing heavily, but he could make out the sound of Remus in the distance. "Moons?" He hummed, eyes blearily beginning to open. "Th't you?"

Stranger: Remus trembled violently, his vision blurring as he made another attempt to sit up. "Sirius..." he whimpered again as his head thudded against the rough wooden floor. As usual, he had no memory of the night before, and he still hadn't concluded that Sirius had been hurt, that he had been the one to hurt Sirius. He groaned pitifully, unsure of how to even begin to get up.

You: There was a thump. Was that him? The world was dizzy, it didn't make sense, and he didn't like that. He lay limp against the furniture piece, not even realizing that there was danger, that Remus was as injured as he was, or that he was even in danger. He half thought this was a dream, a hallucination and that the pain was because he was at home, or because he'd been an idiot while playing quidditch, and not because of this. It couldn't be because of this. It took another few minutes, a few more times of drifting in and out of consciousness to realize that it was cold, that there was a damp feeling surrounding him, that everything was very wrong. Sobering up as much as he could, he blinked himself awake as best as he could, finding Remus struggling on the floor, looking about ready to pass out. "Moons" He hummed, fighting off the sleep that was trying to wash over him. "Stop" He said, whimpering as he moved a bit and realized it was a very, very bad idea. "D'nt hurt yours'f" He said, coughing once.

Stranger: "S'rius?" he asked after a moment. The voice across the room finally registered to him. "Help..." he croaked, reaching out a pale, quaking hand. Turned away from Sirius as he was, he couldnt see that he lay in a similar beat up heap. The one and only thing he wanted in that moment was for Sirius to come to him and help him up, take him to the infirmary, help him recover.

You: The cry for help put a lump in Sirius's throat. It was his job to help Remus, it was what he'd always done, it was what he was supposed to do, and he couldn't. He couldn't move, and he didn't know if someone would be coming for them. Did James know? Was Madame Pomfrey keeping track of when Remus usually came in, did she know he wasn't there yet? Whining lightly, he shook his head, trying to push himself up, but he was defenseless. Did he have his wand? Was the world actually as slanted as it felt? He didn't know. It took him a while longer still to realize that he might have his wand with him. Where did he keep it? Was it in his hair? He did that a lot, when he put it up. But he could feel something sticking to his neck, he could also feel pulling. Was it in his pocket? After a minute, he took a deep breath and sighed, closing his eyes, feeling nausea build as the world continued to tilt. "Wand" He said. Was it with the stuff he brought? Where had that gone? "Accio...." he said, trying to think of how to get some help, even if his wand wasn't in his hand. "Accio.....James. Accio help"

You: ((brb))

Stranger: Remus painstakingly managed to roll himself onto his side, where he could see Sirius' prone form. The sight unnerved him. What had he done? This was his fault, all his fault. Why had he ever let his friends get involved with this? It wasn't their problem. Then, a sudden, horrid thought penetrated his mind. Had he bitten Sirius? He would never forgive himself if his friend was now doomed to the same fate as he. "Sirius..." he mumbled..."Sirius, what happened....?" He began to cough roughly, every motion seeming to jostle his aching bones and muscles.

You: "St'p" Sirius begged. He knew how much pain Remus was in, he knew how he was feeling, and it hurt to hear him that sick and not be able to hold him. Taking a deep breath, coughing as he realized how dry his throat was. "Came too early" He said. Was that what happened? Had to be. "Don' know." He said, looking over at the other. The world was still spinning, his ears still ringing, but he was focusing on Remus, on the crumpled person on the floor. "Don....c'n you. My wand?" He asked. "The floor? Is it on the floor?"

Stranger: Remus closed his eyes as everything went blurry again. He let out a strangled sobbing noise. There wasn't a single inch of his body that didn't pain him, and he couldn't be sure of Sirius's safety now either. He felt trapped, not only in the shack, but also in his mind. No matter how much his body hurt, the pain of knowing he'd hurt Sirius completely enveloped him in misery. "Sirius...." he groaned, tears pooling on the floor.

You: "Re...." Sirius whimpered, his heart breaking even more. Even if he wasn't completely lucid or alright, he knew that Remus was suffering and that hurt him more than anything. He was defenseless. Trying once more to move enough, to push the furniture away, he only ended up hurting himself more. The whole world spinning now, his stomach in tight, constricting knots, Sirius laid there and for the first time, prayed that this would end. That help would come, and that his Remus would stop crying. And help did come. Half an hour passed before he heard cautious footsteps, followed by an audible gasp. Then, rushing. Where to? Help Remus, Sirius begged. Help him first, calm him down. Wrap him in his favorite sweater and tell him he would be alright. Feed him chocolate. Make sure he was alright, because the sound of crying was tearing Sirius apart. But the footsteps were coming to him, and before he could even open his eyes, there was furniture being scooted out of the way. Grunting, he heard grunting, and eventually realized that it was James. And there was talking, and rushing, and someone slapping his face. And there were names being thrown around, and eventually it all blurred together. But there was help. Help for him, and hopefully help for Remus too. He lost consciousness as he was being levitated onto a stretcher, someone wrapping a blanket around him. He stayed that way until the sun began to set, and he was in a much different place.

Stranger: Remus woke, hours later. He was immediately disoriented. This wasn't the Shrieking Shack. This wasn't even the infirmary. What the bloody hell was going on? He could barely lift his head a fraction of an inch, but all that surrounded him were white sterile walls and a dark wooden table at his bedside. This was St. Mungo's. Had it really been that bad? Had he managed to hurt himself that much? And if he was in this horrid of a state, what was Sirius like? His eyes flashed open completely. "Sirius?" he croaked in a half-choked voice. "Sirius?" He began to tremble again, terrified that a far worse fate had awaited his Padfoot.

You: He could taste the chalky flavor of sleeping draught when he first woke up. When had he been given that? He could hear everything, dimmed, but he could hear it. Footsteps, not far away, constantly someone walking down a hallway. There was a small buzzing sound, and a bubbling one. And it took him much too long to realize that it did not smell at all like Hogwarts, and that's when he woke up. The pillows were flatter, and the sheets starker. The bed was larger, and slightly fluffier than the one he'd woken up to before, back at school. This wasn't a place he wanted to be, this wasn't what he wanted. Taking a lot of time to open his eyes, Sirius found himself laying in a bed, starch white blankets wrapped up to his chest, and utterly alone. There was water, and what looked like a brewing potion in a very small cauldron. And the lights were dim. There was a curtain pulled over the window, and a few candles lit. His throat was dry, he was scared, but he couldn't make a sound. He felt like he was stuck in water, the world moving slowly around him, and he wanted to get out. Or get to Remus, but he didn't know where he was, or how he'd failed him. He'd been pacing between rooms for hours. McGonagall had tried to get him to come back to the castle, to finish up his day, and that he would get word about his friends once they'd woken, but he refused. Fought, actually, and felt the panic in his body as he lashed out at her, only to be flooded with relief when she sighed and nodded, telling him not to worry so much. Someone had to be there, and even with some representation from the school, including Dumbledore for a long while, he needed to be there as well. When he heard Remus stirring and waking up, he rushed to his side. At least someone was awake, that was good. He was alright. Pale, but less weak looking than before. "Hey, hey" James said, taking Remus's hand. "He's in the next room, alright?" He said, staring down at the other gently. "He's sleeping. You two will be alright." He promised. "How are you feeling?"

Stranger: "Does it matter how I feel?" Remus muttered, closing his eyes as tears began to well in them. "How badly is he hurt? What did I do to him? Merlin, James, I am a monster. Please just tell me I didn't bite him..." He swallowed thickly, finally blinking his eyes open after a few moments. His head still ached like he'd fallen from the Astronomy Tower and landed head first. He inhaled deeply, cataloging his injuries; his neck was incredibly stiff, and no bones felt broken, but every last tiny centimeter of his skin felt that it must have been covered in purpling bruises. "When can I see him?" he asked James after a deafening silence."I need to apologize...to see him and know that he's here...that he's alive..." Remus turned his head, inhaling sharply as he did so. James sat in a dark wooden rocking chair placed next to his bed there is a deep bottle green blanket draped over the back of the chair. "That blanket..." he whispered, "Can I have it?"

You: "You didn't bite him" James said definitively. That's what he'd been worried about as well. The force of everything, it had to have been while he was still a wolf, and the prospect of that was terrifying when it was Sirius at the other end of it. "They checked every centimeter of his body, there's no bite mark" He promised, taking a deep breath. Remus was still in bad shape, he didn't know if he wanted to move him, or if he was even allowed to do that. Sighing, he stood up and draped the blanket over Remus, frowning at the other. "He's pretty beat up. My best guess, from what I saw. You threw him across the room, and then something fell. He was pinned. He's concuss, and his legs were pretty mangled. The doctors fixed those, for the most part. He ahh, I don't know too much. He's sick. I'll get a healer and see if you can see him after he wakes, yeah? But for now just...rest"

Stranger: Remus did his best to pull the blanket in closer. He'd recognized it in a second. Sirius was a man of habit. Every time he came to collect Remus from the shack, along with a new set of clean clothes, he'd always bring him this blanket. This blanket that Sirius slept with for the rest of the month, resulting in the comforting fact that it smelled like Sirius. He had countless memories of it being draped around his shoulders as Sirius carried him back to the castle and into the infirmary. Even now, when he could hardly move or completely comprehend the enormity of what had happened, the blanket made him feel safe. "Please do. I need to see that he's okay," Remus told James in a hushed voice. "I'm really a mess, arent I?"

You: He looked so much smaller than he normally did. Even after a normal moon, he was much smaller after this one. "He'll be alright" He sighed, shaking his head. This was bad. So bad. He didn't even have words. "Yeah, you're a bit of a mess. But you always are" He promised, hoping that lightened the mood. But it was still much too quiet. That was, at least, until he heard coughing coming from next door. Frowning, he quickly stood up. "I'm going to see if that's him" He said, running into the other room finding Sirius doubled over, sounding like he was choking. Grabbing the water from off the table, he helped Sirius drink and laid him back down. "Hey" He said, trying to give the other a smile. "You have someone wanting to visit you" He said, wondering if Sirius understood him. He still seemed to be in a fog, not completely there, but he was awake and that was more than he could ask for.

Stranger: Remus clutched the blanket in his hands, his anxiety mounting. Sirius was just on the other side of that wall, and there was no way for him to get to him without a good deal of help. The coughing worried him as well, and he wished he could be at his side, stroking his hair and holding his hand. Sirius did not deserve any of this. He'd come to help Remus, and what had he gotten in return? Injury and illness. Even James, who could normally keep a situation lighthearted without difficulty, seemed to be wilting. Two of his best friends had been terribly injured at the same time, and he was forced now to deal with both of them and their anguish.

You: It took a great deal of work, but eventually James was able to find a healer that would get Remus into the room that Sirius was in. That certainly seemed to be the better option, as Sirius looked much more fragile than he should still, and was not entirely lucid he didn't believe. Eventually, he managed to get a healer into Remus's room, helping him into a wheelchair, the green blanket still wrapped around him, and wheeled into Sirius's room. Then transferring Remus to the large rocking chair next to the bed, the healer left and let the three of them stay together. Upon seeing Remus there, injured but alive, Sirius felt a well of emotions. He'd been alright, at least to some degree. Feeling the lump in his throat regain, he sniffled and tried speaking. "You okay" He managed to whisper, giving the other a watery smile as he looked at him. He still didn't have a great grasp on what had happened, but he was emotional. He could tell there were still potions and medicines running through him, but even at that he was in a great amount of pain, and more than anything just wanted the world to turn the right way again.

Stranger: Remus practically broke down then and there. He reached out for Sirius's hand, although the endeavor was painful. It was entirely worth it when he could finally feel that Sirius was present, real and alive and hopefully safe in the hands of the healers. He stared at him, smiling through his tears. "I'm so sorry..." he whispered, letting the tears flow, unobstructed down his face as raising a hand to wipe them would pose too much of a challenge. "I'm still in pain, but...that's not important right now...are you okay? How can I help? This is all my fault." His chest heaved as a broken sob left him and he clung tighter to Sirius's hand.

You: It took a lot of concentration and effort, but Sirius wrapped his fingers around the hand that was reaching out for his. They were a little cold, but Remus's hands were usually that way. It was grounding, made him feel better, a little bit more at peace, and almost as if he had a home. Closing his eyes as he relished in not being alone, and now being able to make some noise, he let out a deep sigh. It hurt, to know how much pain Remus was still in, all because Sirius didn't do his job right. He didn't protect Sirius properly. "I didn't protect you" He said, a sob breaking his then steady breathing down, causing him to suck in more breath and whimper. Quite a lot was bruised, maybe cracked, bleeding? He wasn't sure, but he was sore, and disoriented. "My fault. You....you didn't do anything" He said, forcing his eyes back open to look at Remus, even though the sight of it broke his heart. He just wanted to go to bed.

[ship-all-ships]

Low Key Almost Cried a Few Times

Stranger: [This is after “/The Prank/.” Remus and Sirius haven’t spoken in nearly a month. If I lost you on this I’m sorry!] Oi. The map says you haven’t moved from beside the lake all day, and James and Pete are concerned. They wanted me to try, since you aren’t replying to them. RL Happy? There you go. It worked. Now tell me you’re alright. RL

You: [No Reply]

Stranger: Sirius. I meant now, if that wasn't clear. RL

You: [No reply]

Stranger: This isn't funny. You aren't being /funny/ here, Padfoot. RL

You: 32 days-SB

Stranger: I'm sorry, what? RL

You: You haven't even looked at me for 25 days, and now there's only 32 left-SB

Stranger: [...] Left? Of what? RL

You: [....] Forget about it-SB Thanks for the firewhiskey-SB Maybe it was James's. I don't remember-SB

Stranger: It wasn't me. RL Sirius, 32 two days left of what? RL

You: Until it doesn't matter anymore, okay?-SB Until I've lost you-SB

Stranger: [...] You're drunk. RL

You: Little bit-SB Only thing I could do-SB

Stranger: It's cold. And dark. RL You should come inside. RL

You: It was so nice today-SB A day you'd really like. It was your kind of day-SB But 25 days and you won't look at me, so maybe it's foolish to be still thinking about you-SB

Stranger: [...] I still think about you every day, Sirius. Please come inside. RL

You: I stole Felix Felicis from Slugnorn yesterday, you still didn't look at me-SB

Stranger: Maybe you should've tried talking to me instead, since that's really what you wanted to accomplish. That's how the potion works, you know. RL

You: I tried but no words came out-SB You get so irritated when I'm around. All of a sudden I wasn't feeling so lucky-SB

Stranger: It's not irritation. RL I brought you dinner, you know. It's on your bed. You really should eat. RL

You: Not hungry. Just empty-SB

Stranger: Sirius... RL

You: What?-SB

Stranger: I'm asking you to please come inside the castle. Where it's warm. Where it's safe from Filch coming to find you pissed by the lake. RL Do this for me? Please? RL

You: Are you still mad at me?-SB

Stranger: I'm not angry any more, no. I'm just tired. RL

Stranger: Tired and hurt. RL

You: I'm sorry-SB

Stranger: I know you are. RL

You: If I come back, you won't be mad?-SB

Stranger: I'll be mad if you don't. If you stay out there and hurt yourself or get yourself in trouble. Then I'll be mad. RL

You: Okay. Fine, yeah. I'll come home-SB

Stranger: Can you walk? RL

You: I've been drunker before-SB

Stranger: That hardly answers the question. RL

You: Why?-SB James on his way to get me?-SB

Stranger: I was going to sent him if you can't walk. He has the cloak. RL

You: I could probably manage-SB Where's Filch at?-SB

Stranger: By the Library. Been there a while. Might be asleep. RL

You: Think I could sneak around him?-SB

Stranger: Yeah, just be careful please. RL

You: Mhmmmm-SB

You: Sirius hoisted himself up, finding himself to be a bit unstable, a little dizzy, and a little sick, but functioning. He could put one foot in front of the other and as long as he didn't think too hard, he wouldn't fall. At least, that usually worked for him. And it worked for a while. He made his way to the castle, down a few long corridors with only the ghosts giving him odd looks. He made it just to the moving staircases, finding it extremely difficult to stay balanced, and having to hold on very carefully. It took him much longer for him to find his way to the fat lady, and even when he did, he had to fight her on the password. He knew what it was, it had just changed the previous week but he was positive as to what it was, but she insisted that it wasn't, and that he was too drunk. He grimaced at her but managed to get her to allow him in. Hopefully she didn't disappear to some other painting and alert someone. But if he got back to his room, he figured he was safe. So up the steps he made his way, doing his best to focus on each stair and not pay attention to the others in the common room. Finally, after an amount of time he couldn't measure, he was able to get to his room, tripping through the door with a grunt, unsure of what to make of the situation.

Stranger: Remus was sitting cross legged on the foot of his bed, fiddling with his wand. A few times it shot out blue sparks as he tapped it impatiently, startling him as he watched the door. Finally, /finally/ the door creaked open and /finally/ it was Sirius on the other side and /finally/ Remus' chest didn't ache quite so much with worry. He frowned at the other, though, taking in his drunken form. "You're wet," he observed, raising a single brow as the boy swayed dangerously where he stood. "Come here," he said softly, tentatively raising his eyes to meet the other's, eyebrows arching in concern. "I'll dry you up. I know a spell. Please?"

You: Even though Remus had promised that he wouldn't be mad at Sirius, that he wasn't upset with him anymore, Sirius still didn't believe it. 25 painstaking days had gone by. Many of them with attempts to get Remus to talk to him, to look at him, to do anything, and none of it had done shit. After he blew up at Sirius two days after the prank, he hadn't spoken a word. Hadn't looked his direction, woken him up, replied to a comment of his in class. Nothing, despite Sirius's best efforts, and it had broken him down. But then, drunkenly stumbling into his room, the other had so patiently talked to him. There wasn't scorn in his voice, there wasn't hatred. He wasn't saying mean things to Sirius like he'd expected. He'd calmly asked him to come over so he could care for him, and some of the balance of the world seemed restored. Though still feeling broken down, Sirius didn't feel quite so...../dark/. Looking at the other, he audibly gasped as Remus made eye contact. Quickly stumbling to the other, falling on the floor right in front of him, Sirius was hesitant to make contact. He wanted so badly to lay his head in Remus's lap, to apologize for everything, to hug him, to remind him how important he was, but he didn't know if Remus was ready for that. "I tr'd to fight the squid" He mumbled, head hanging low as he sat in front of Remus, still swaying in his spot a bit. "He threw me out. Was'nt g'd enough"

Stranger: Remus' flinched as the other fell hard on the floor, listening sadly as he spoke. "In your defense, I'm not sure anyone could beat Squid in a fight," he said softly, reaching for his wand angling it toward Sirius. "Siccum Fermentum," he whispered, and a warm glow emitted over Sirius like a mist. It was a dry warmth spell he'd learned, mostly for his friend's sakes. They always seemed to need these sorts of things. He set his wand back down and chewed on the side of his lip, hesitating for a long moment before reaching out and touching the top of Sirius' now dry head. "Hey. Come here. Let's talk, hm?" His voice was tired but honest, and he let his hand slide to the side of Sirius' face before it fell away, staying between them as an offering to help him off the floor.

You: Even when Sirius was feeling terrible, always more down when he was intoxicated, and not certain that he'd made up with Remus, the boy managed to make him feel warmer. The absence of cold water clinging to his skin, threatening to freeze him from the outside in made everything a bit better. And then, to hear Remus's voice, quiet and steady, calm in the midst of such turbulence only warmed him even more. The hand on his cheek forced him to look up, back at Remus's face again, even though it was a little blurry. Everything was a little out of focus. Taking a moment to realize that the hand was to help him up, he finally agreed and took as much help as he could get in standing back up. From there, it took him a moment to get his bearings straight, even if he was leaning against Remus. "What'd'ya want to talk 'bout" He sighed, closing his eyes, because trying to sort out everything around him seemed like positively too much work.

[ship-all-ships]

I ended up falling asleep I’m so sorry!

You: There's been an accident with Severin-JM

Stranger: Is he okay? RB What happened? RB Where is he? RB

You: In surgery, as we speak-JM His job went off plan, he's broken part of his spine and is getting surgery to correct it-JM Would you like me to send a car?-JM

Stranger: What?! RB Yes. Yes. RB

You: One is en route to you-JM I'm sorry, for what has happened-JM

Stranger: Do you know how long he's supposed to be in surgery for? RB

You: Not much longer, but he'll likely sleep for at least another hour-JM

Stranger: Okay... RB

You: It'll be alright, Richard-JM

Stranger: I hope so. RB I mean... at least he's alive. RB

You: He's alive. That's better than the alternative-JM

Stranger: I know. I know. RB I think I'll be able to be calmer when I see him. RB You know, make sure he's alive for myself. RB

You: Yes, I know-JM Has the car arrived yet?-JM

Stranger: Ummmm... No, not yet. RB

You: Right-JM It should be there soon-JM

Stranger: Oh oh wait. It just got here. RB

You: Good. I'll be waiting for you up front-JM

Stranger: You're there? RB

You: Yes. I was given the call, I headed over to make sure he was alright for myself-JM

Stranger: Okay. RB I just didn't expect you to be there. RB

You: Someone needed to be-JM Sebastian doesn't even have service where he's currently at, I can't notify him until his job is done-JM

Stranger: Oh god. Seb. RB

You: It might be best he doesn't know yet-JM

Stranger: Yeah... RB

You: Just focus on getting here, yes?-JM

Stranger: Yeah... RB I mean.. I don't have to do much besides sit here and not make the driver nervous. RB Who is this driver anyways? I've never seen him before. RB

You: He's new. I had to fire the one you usually get-JM

Stranger: Why? What happened to him? RB

You: Don't worry about it, Richard-JM

Stranger: Oh... okay.. RB

You: I'm out front, for when you arrive-JM

Stranger: The car pulled up to the hospital minutes after Jim's last text. He /knew/ this job was dangerous for Rin, far too dangerous than what it was worth but Rin loved it and seemed to be good at it so Rich didn't say anything and now he was injured. Possibly severely hurt and it took possibly all he had in him not to think that maybe if he had pushed for him to have not gone out today just a bit harder none of this would have happened. Muttering a small thank you to the driver, Rich quickly got out of the car and ran to Jim. "Is he out of surgery yet?" He asked, running a hand through his hair which was already standing up on its own.

You: Richard was a mess, but quite honestly, Jim was too. He was not expecting this, not in the least bit. Severin showed great combat skills, and his hearing was almost as good as it could be. He was one of Jim's better men, and yet, this had happened. And now he had to deal with the repercussions, with Richard's worrying, and having to tell Sebastian when he was in reach again. It was bad, and Jim was just trying to piece it together. Holding an arm out, allowing Richard to take his embrace if he wished, Jim sighed. "He should be soon" he promised, stroking back some of Richard's hair. "Come. The waiting room is just down the hall. I'll see if I can find you a cup of tea"

Stranger: Rich ignored the offer for a hug knowing that if he took it his emotions would take over -more than they have already- and he'd cry, so instead he just took his hand and silently followed him. It wasn't until they were in the waiting room, tea in hand, when Rich softly asked, "Do you know how it happened?" He swallowed down the forming knot in his throat and looked down to the tea. Only looking back up when he felt a bit more in control of it. He was /not/ going to cry here. No. Not in the waiting room at least. Maybe the loo. But not here.

You: Richard was trying so hard to be strong, and Jim had to commend that. He wasn't sure, however, if Richard would be ready for the story of how it happened. Grappling with the idea of telling him, Jim eventually sighed. "You're not going to want to know" He said, shaking his head. He waited for an okay to speak before giving the story, of how Severin had found himself in hand to hand combat, and in a moment of weakness, someone had found something, we're not positive quite what, and hit him in the back with it, leaving him on the floor and helpless. Luckily, he had a panic button that he was able to activate before falling unconscious, how he's been ever sinse.

You: since*

Stranger: "Oh.." Rich said, looking back down to his tea. Not knowing how it had happened only made it worse for him. It let his mind come up with horrible scenes, each one ending in a more worse situation. Rich swallowed some of his tea and quickly blinked away forming tears before nearly having to beg Jim for him to know. It didn't really help knowing what they figured had happened but it was able to put his thoughts to bed. So that was something, if any. Rich just hoped that whatever damage was done could be fixed. For Rin's sake. Rich wouldn't leave him no matter what, but he knew Rin wouldn't be happy if he couldn't go on his morning runs.Shaking the thoughts from Rich's head he looked back to Jim, "When will Sebastian be done with his job?"

[ship-all-ships]

Mormor Teenlock

Stranger: Sebastian (18) kept quiet as he continued walking about three metres behind Jim. A few days ago he'd walked in on some bullies hitting and kicking Jim and he had beat them up. Since then he'd been walking home behind Jim on his way back home to ensure that he got home safely. He didn't speak to him or confront him, just walked behind him at a reasonable distance.

You: He knew it was happening, he'd noticed the boy tailing him from the moment he began doing it, but he hadn't said anything yet. But today, days after anything happened, Jim was fed up with it. He didn't need protecting, he could handle himself. Stopping abruptly in his spot, Jim took a moment before turning around, facing Sebastian. "I'm fine" He said firmly. "You can stop following me. I know what you saw but I can handle it. Go home"

Stranger: Sebastian halted in surprise, looking at Jim. He thought that Jim either didn't notice or didn't care. He glanced to the side and sighed. "Tch. You obviously can't. You're still all black and blue and it's been a week." he said, a bit embarrassed to have Jim confront him so boldly about trying to protect him.

You: Oh, now Sebastian was talking back? Frowning and taking a few steps closer to the other, Jim held his ground. "I know how to handle myself, thank you very much" He said angrily, looking up at the other. "Just because I'm small doesn't mean I won't be fine. I don't need some...hothead following me because he feels he's doing a good thing."

Stranger: Sebastian then turned his head back to glare directly at him. "Yeah, right. You wouldn't be able to handle one guy, let alone a bunch of them. And I'm not doing this out of some charity." he spat. "So you just go on quietly like usual."

You: Quickly getting angrier, Jim grabbed Sebastian's shirt and pulled him to his level. "You have no idea what I can take, tough guy. Now, I suggest you scram. I don't need you. You don't even live in the area, do you?"

Stranger: Sebastian grabbed his wrist, yanking his head away and then pulling him close glare down at him. "Why the hell are you so stubborn? It's not like I am bothering you, I don't even talk to you! And besides, this can only be beneficial to you and you're acting like a complete nutter." he huffed and then let go off him, straightening back up and muttering. "No, I don't live in the area."

You: "I'm the crazy one?" Jim said, snapping his wrist back to himself, keeping it close. "You don't live around here, yet you follow me home every fucking day just to make sure I what....don't get beat by some kid with muscles? As if I haven't had a bruise before?" He asked, chuckling and rolling his eyes, turning around again. "Like I said, you know nothing about me. And saving me from those guys isn't really all that beneficial, but thanks for trying"

Stranger: "Well you obviously are crazy, what, you like getting bruises? Are you some kind of a masochist?" Sebastian asked. "You like getting beat up, is that it?"

You: "Wouldn't feel like home without them" Jim snapped back, stopping and turning to the other, a very serious expression on his face. "But you don't know about that, do you? Has a hair on that pretty little head ever been touched? Taken...abused?" he asked, arching an eyebrow, a slight smile on his face. "You're an interesting one, Tiger. It takes crazy to know crazy"

Stranger: Sebastian's eyes widened a bit as he understood just what Jim meant by that line. So he was abused at home as well, huh? There's not much Sebastian could do about that, he thought, hands balling into fists. He frowned. "Oh, I know a lot. I'm not some prince, you know, just because I have money." he said and then smirked. "A crazy tiger, is that what you take me for?"

You: Grin lifting at the sides, Jim began to laugh, continuing on for a slightly longer time than was comfortable. "A crazy tiger...." He thought, looking the other over in an almost dreamy sense. "At face value, maybe. But I know you're more complicated than that, aren't you?" He asked, walking back over to the other, reaching up to stroke his cheek. "Sad little pout, following poor little me around for fun. Trying to find something to fill your dull, empty life, right?" He asked, shaking his head. "Tell me, do you act this tough all the time?"

Stranger: A smile pulled at Sebastian's lips as he watched the boy laugh maniacally. It was quite amusing. He went back to his usual expression and then huffed. "I don't see how it gets more complicated than a crazy tiger" he murmured and then froze as Jim touched his cheek. He frowned at Jim's words, batting his hand away. "Yeah, I'm not doing this out of boredom, my life's full of all kinds of misadventures, thank you very much." he said. "I don't "act tough", Jimmy. I am."

You: Jim's face lit up at the name. "Jimmy" He said lightly, biting his lip and grinning. "Are you my mother?" He asked, taking a deep breath. "Oh, how I wondered where you'd gone." He said, his face dropping just slightly as he thought for a moment, returning to his usual, cool self after a moment. "Do you want to come in? I don't have shit to offer, unless you actually like getting in trouble, I suppose" He said, looking Sebastian over once more.

Stranger: Sebastian blinked and then grinned, amused. "Yeah, I am, it was me all this time, Jimmy, I was worried so-" he cut himself off as he registrated Jim's next words, shutting up immediately, glancing down at the ground. He was such an idiot, he really should have kept his mouth shut! "..Sorry." he muttered and then looked up at the offer and then smirked with a shrug. "Well, why not? It's not like I have other places to be at right now."

You: Jim only chuckled at Sebastian's response-both of them. Nodding, he started moving along. He didn't say anything for the rest of the walk there, walking into the house with no key, not bothering to make a sound. It was a mess, clutter and trash everywhere, his father still asleep on the ground in the living room. Taking a pack of cigarettes off the table, Jim stole one, lighting it on the stove as he entered the kitchen, sitting on the counter as he took a drag. "Is it just you in the house? Or....do you have...company?"

Stranger: Sebastian didn't mind the silence, this time walking next to Jim as they went the rest of the way home. He walked inside and his eyes widened at the sight before him. The place was a mess and Sebastian ended up staring at the figure of what was probably Jim's father on the floor. As he spoke, Sebastian snapped out of it and looked up at Jim. ((Jim's father asked the question, right?))

You: Christ, he was awake. Jim was hoping last night had put him out good. Frowning, Jim rolled his eyes and sighed. "Nobody's stealing your liquor" He called back out, whispering under his breath "You bastard" So that his father couldn't hear it. Jumping down from the counter, Jim walked into the next room, where his father was waking. "Go back to sleep, for fucks sake. Theres'nt shit in the house" He said, sighing. The other man stood, looking down at Jim and growling. "Well if you'd get a job, maybe you'd stop complaining" Jim only rolled his eyes and laughed. That got him a slap. Rolling his eyes again, Jim looked up at his old man. "Sebastian's only looking. Promise, he won't touch a thing. Now get out of my hair" He said, walking back to the kitchen to finish his cigarette. His accent had slipped, but he didn't look worse for wear. "He's still sleepy" Jim explained. "Probably still drunk, I imagine. Not that I pay mind"

[ship-all-ships]

Stranger: ((Alexander (15) recently got adopted by Sherlock and John. Hamish doesn’t know the details about why, just that his parents died and asked Sherlock and John to be Alex’s tutors in their will. They’re roughly the same age, but Alex is very quiet and closed-up.)) You went through my stuff when I was out. AM

You: You're awfully accusatory-HWH

Stranger: I can see when my things have been misplaced, and I guess being nosy runs in your genes. AM

You: Oh shut up. I'm not looking through your shit-HWH

Stranger: Did you find what you were looking for? Something to /explain/ me, deduce me, or did you leave disappointed once again? AM

You: I was looking for my notebook and bookmark. Leather bound, large button on the front? Big metal bookmark with strings attached, horribly corny phrase on it? Sound familiar?-HWH

Stranger: No. Unlike someone, I don't mess with other people's belongings. You knew perfectly well I hadn't taken them, stop making excuses to invade my space. AM

You: Well they're gone. They're gone and I have no idea where they'd be-HWH

Stranger: What is it, Misha? You lost your diary? AM

You: Shut up. You know nothing-HWH

Stranger: Oh yeah, because I'm not a bloody Holmes I must be stupid as fuck. I'm sick of this. I'm sick of you. AM

You: No. Because you've been here for less than a month and won't even make an effort to talk to us. We're trying to help you. And now my journal is missing and my parents know not to touch it-HWH

Stranger: I don't want to talk to you, I don't want your help, I never wanted to be here in the first place. I hate you, all of you, I wish you were the ones that died. AM

You: [...] I know you do. And I have no idea why you're here, but at least acknowledge that we're trying to do something for you-HWH I didn't clean out half of my room for you to be rude to me. My parents didn't take you in for you to ignore them-HWH

Stranger: I don't owe you anything. AM

You: You could look my dad in the eye once in a while-HWH

Stranger: It makes me sick. AM

You: What, looking at him?-HWH

Stranger: Yes. AM

You: Why do you hate us so much?-HWH

Stranger: (...) Your journal is on top of the bookcase. You can't see it or catch it from the ground, you'll have to use a chair. Stretch up a little bit. AM

You: Thank you-HWH I didn't look through your stuff, you know. I know that's not fair to do-HWH

Stranger: And I didn't look into it. Your book. I just misplaced it to mess with you. AM

You: Well.....thank you for that-HWH You know, I kind of understand how you feel. Just...so you know-HWH

Stranger: You really don't. AM

You: [...] I know I have the name for it, but I'm not actually theirs. I came here when I was four. I changed my name because I didn't want to think of my dad anymore-HWH

You: It's scary, and it sucks. But please, we're trying to help you-HWH

Stranger: (...) They know why I hate them. There's a reason. AM We won't be a family, ever, and I'll become emancipated next year. There's really no need for us to become besties. AM

You: We don't have to be besties, but acknowledge us please. At least Pa, he's really really trying to make you comfortable-HWH

Stranger: I can't. AM

You: Will you acknowledge me then?-HWH After this conversation, that is?-HWH

Stranger: I guess I can try. AM

You: I'm sorry for not putting your things back better-HWH

Stranger: Are you waiting for me to answer that I'm sorry I misplaced your journal? AM

You: No. I don't expect that much. I just know it sucks to have your stuff rummaged through-HWH Especially that journal. Alright?-HWH

Stranger: Fine, I won't touch it anymore. Won't touch anything. AM

You: Thank you-HWH I won't touch your stuff either-HWH

Stranger: Good. AM

You: Can you tell me something about you? My parents won't tell me why you're here, and you haven't talked to me yet-HWH

Stranger: Why do you care? AM

You: I guess you don't have to tell me. You're just...so quiet. I wanted to know /something/ about you. Like.....I don't have a favorite color-HWH

Stranger: (...) Blue. Not sky blue, or sea blue. Something a bit greyish. Like your eyes, for example. AM

You: Your favorite color is my eyes?-HWH

Stranger: I didn't say it like that. I've seen the color before, it's not like I decided your eyes' was my favorite. AM

You: I'm just giving you shit. Nobody's ever used my eyes to describe their favorite color before-HWH

Stranger: Get that smug smile off your face. I know it's there. I wasn't trying to pay you a compliment. AM

You: I appreciate it-HWH I'll try and find that color, I'll make you a blanket. I don't think yours is terribly thick-HWH

Stranger: You want to make me a blanket. AM

You: I make blankets in my free time. It's like stress relief. I donate most of them, but I'll make you one. It'll be all your own-HWH

Stranger: Of course you'd make blankets and donate them. Fuck's sake. AM Thank you for your concern, but I don't need charity. My quilt is just enough. AM

You: What is that supposed to mean?-HWH

Stranger: You, with your curly hair and bright eyes and pretty smile, you go around making people happy and being all angelical and perfect. That's just you. AM

You: [....] I'm glad that seems to be the impression I pull off but that's nothing like what I actually am-HWH Alex, I'm too afraid to leave the house most of the time. I donate the blankets because I made so many my family was going to throw them away we had so many-HWH I'm not angelical. I'm a fuck up. That's just me, alright?-HWH

Stranger: (...) I've seen far worse, as stress relieves and irrational anxieties go. AM

You: I know, I know. I have too. I was worse. This is a drastic improvement, trust me-HWH

Stranger: I don't think you went as far as killing things and people to relax, have you? AM You're not a fuck up. You're probably more complicated than you seem, but that's alright. AM

You: [...] I'm sorry. I'm sorry, no I haven't. I shouldn't have spoken-HWH

Stranger: Why are you sorry? AM

You: I know nothing about you and I went about thinking I might. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have spoken-HWH

Stranger: I'm not mad at you. AM

You: I just wanted to make you a blanket. You look cold, and you said my eyes were pretty-HWH

Stranger: Hamish, I'm not mad at you. It's okay. You can make me a blanket if you want, I might even like it. Alright? AM

You: Okay, alright-HWH I didn't mean to do that. Thank you for being nice about it-HWH

Stranger: It's, uh... I don't exactly know why I'm being nice, but I guess that can't kill me. AM Are you scared now, after what I said? AM

You: Yes. But I won't tell my parents if you don't want me to-HWH

Stranger: They know. And I wasn't talking about me, I never killed anyone. I was just using an example, from other people I knew. That's it. AM

You: Oh. Right, of course-HWH That makes me feel a bit better-HWH

Stranger: I don't think your parents would have let you share your room with a psychopath, would they? AM

You: Not knowingly, no. I don't do well with death, really-HWH

Stranger: Neither do I. I should be used to it by now, but I guess some deaths are harder to leave behind than others. AM It has to do with your dad, doesn't it? The one from before, from when you were a kid. AM

You: Of course some are. I'm still not over some. It's hard-HWH [...] Yeah. Yeah it does-HWH

Stranger: It would be a bit hypocritical of me to ask you to talk about it. But if you feel like it, someday, you can. I'll listen. AM Maybe you were right. Maybe we're not that different. AM

You: I mean, there's not really a lot of processing left. I've been in therapy for years talking about it-HWH Just...my dad was a bad man, and my dads now were the good guys that saved me from him-HWH

Stranger: I was always terrified of therapy. I don't know how you do it, I couldn't stand a guy staring at me while I tell my whole life story before giving him a check. AM ... A bad man? AM

[ship-all-ships]

Severich Severich Severich

Stranger: ((Email. Severin's stationed in Afghanistan au. Est.)) Rin, Well, I got a big part in the new show down at Don Mar. I'm really really excited. The director wants to do this really modern take on old greek style and I think people are really gonna like it! I wish you were here. I woke up last night holding a pillow. Thought it was you. Love, Richard

You: Richie, Congrats on the part! I wish I could come see you in it. Is everything else going well? I'll see if I can send something back that smells like me for you to cuddle. My friends here are all sick of me talking about you, I think. They're just jealous they don't have someone so lovely to come home to. I know it'll be a while still, but I'm counting the days. Stay safe, have fun, Severin

Stranger: Rin, Everything else is okay, I guess. My peonies are wilting because of the weather, it's been unusually rainy and they're drowning in it. Jimmy has been eating dinner a lot with me. I'd love something of yours. And I'll send you something maybe? A box of goodies? They probably are jealous because they're not going to get smothered in kisses like you when you get home! And it's not that long anymore, only three months! I've got it all set out on my calender. Maybe we can have one more video chat? I know it was kind of grainy and broken up last time. Is it terribly hot there? I hope you're staying cool. And don't forget to drink a lot of water. Stay safe, Richie

You: Rich, Yeah, it's really hot right now. But it's been worse. When I was sending you those shaky letters, it was so hot I couldn't concentrate. It's not as bad now, but still enough to be uncomfortable. They probably are jealous. They've all heard all about you, I swear, half of them wished you a happy birthday for me. They're nice though, I like them enough. I'll see what I can do about a video chat, the conditions around here are real bad. Maybe we could get a phone call? I want to hear about everything. I'm glad Jim's been spending time with you, is he good? Oh, and I know it might be a stretch but any news on Sebastian? Do you know how he is? Three months. I have a calendar all set up. Until then Sebastian

You: Severin*

Stranger: Rin, You don't need to write me anything if it's hard for you, silly. What do you mean the conditions are really bad? I know it's hot and in the desert, but you're alright aren't you? You said you'd be on a base and wouldn't be in danger 24/7. I mean, I'd rather never have you in danger, but I understand that... it's your job and this is what you wanna do. Jimmy's good. Sebastian's okay. He's been kind of moody with all the rain this week. He eats plenty. Works most days, but he's usually done by four. Or at least that's what he said when I saw him. He looks like he's eating enough, but he also seems really really tired. I love you, Richard P.S. Come home

You: Richard, I like writing to you, it takes my mind off things usually. I'm glad Jim and Sebastian are good. Tell them both I hope they're okay, that I send my love. Yeah, this base isn't really in a bad area, we've just had some attacks close to it. We're keeping precautions. Some men have gotten hurt. But I'm okay, I promise. I'm always okay. Hurt my shoulder again, but it's nothing some ibuprofen won't fix. I hope /you're/ eating enough. I want you to be healthy and alright. I love you. I'll be home soon Severin p.s. I'll be home soon

Stranger: Rin, What do you want in your care package? I packed crisps and sweets and a shirt of mine - so you can send the other back. I'm sure it doesn't smell of our detergent anymore. I... heard about the attacks. I hoped it was just the media hyping it up. I really do try not to watch the news, but sometimes it comes on and I can't help it. And I know you say you'll be home, I just really really love you, Rin. I am eating. Sometimes it's hard because I don't really know how to cook for one person. Yours always, Richie

You: Richie, Anything you think would remind me of you. There's not much I can send you, but with this letter there are some sketches that I've done lately, to help pass the time. They're nothing much, but you always say I'm good at it. I'll try and send a shirt back, if I can. I love you. Yeah, they're getting closer to our base. We're being careful though. None of my friends have gotten hurt yet, and with the amount of time I have left here, I'm sure I'll be fine. I'm glad you're eating. I know how you get when you're nervous. You can cook all you want for the two of us when I get home, I miss your cooking. Until I come back, Severin

Stranger: Severin, The pictures are beautiful. I love them! I put some up in the kitchen and then I've got some I'm going to put up in my dressing room for the show. Well, it's not /my/ dressing room, but I'll probably have a mirror space for myself like usual. I can't wait to cook for you. I'm gonna make all your favorites just so you can be spoiled for awhile. I'll even make that icky liver and onions you like so much. Love you, Richard

You: Hey baby, Sorry this is a late letter. Sorry the handwriting's shaky. I don't know if you got a letter or not, but I'm going to come home early. Kind of, I think. They won't let me go home, but they're letting me go to London, or so they say. I don't know when this is happening, in a few days probably. Has Sebastian told you? They're supposed to message next of kin. He's my only blood left.

You: I'm so sorry, I'm coming back home though. I love you. All my love, Severin

Stranger: Richard had not gotten a letter. Technically if they'd actually gotten around to a real wedding before Severin had been sent off, he'd have gotten the letter first. But Sebastian got it. It was nearly a day later, but Jimmy came around to drop it off and then left very quickly. Sebastian needed to be taken care of, he said. Richard cried loudly into the empty apartment. He didn't eat or sleep well for the next two days, but he did manage to get a bag of things together for Severin at the hospital. That's where he went on Wednesday, red eyed and exhausted. A very old nurse lead him up to a room where he was let in. His hands shook and he sat down next to the bed, putting the bag on the floor. "Rin?" He whispered, scooting a little closer to the bed and barely touching his lover's arm.

You: Early in the morning they had taken Severin's bed and wheeled him onto an air craft. They strapped him down to things, doctors waited with him, a nurse read to him for a bit, but mostly he slept. That's what he'd been doing recently, because when you can't hear in one ear, your arm doesn

You: ((Sorry!))

Stranger: ((All good:D))

You: Early in the morning they had taken Severin's bed and wheeled him onto an air craft. They strapped him down to things, doctors waited with him, a nurse read to him for a bit, but mostly he slept. That's what he'd been doing recently, because when you can't hear in one ear, your arm doesn't move, and you have shrapnel in your side, there's not much you can do. He was lucky, he was told, but he knew that when he got home, he wouldn't be lucky. There wouldn't be happy tears and the kisses would be laced with fear. It wouldn't be the happy reunion he'd been looking forward to. Still in a sleepy haze, pleasantly numb on a slew of medicines, Severin barely noticed Richard. It wasn't until he'd been there for a few minutes that he noticed the presence and began stirring. "Hmmm?" He asked, slowly opening his eyes. Richard was there, his big brown eyes were puffed up and red, and his hand was trembling lightly. He looked a wreck, and Severin wanted nothing more than to fix it. "Heey...bunny" He said, his voice gruff, but solid. "When'd you get in?"

Stranger: His head snapped up and he sniffled. Oh. That voice. That stupid beautiful voice he had been desperate to hear mumble in his ear every morning when the alarm went off. "Hey, Lion," Richard said and was very proud of himself as an actor that he could say that so evenly. "Only a moment ago," He lied. "I brought you some things from home though - I thought you'd like them," Carefully, and on Severin's good side, he put his hand on the man's forearm and ran his fingers up and down the cool skin. Usually the man was like a human radiator, but hospitals were known for being cold. Clearing his throat, he tried to make a joke, "And here you said you wouldn't do some big surprise when you came home," Which was true. Richard wanted to know the exact moment, but that plan had very much changed.

You: Shivers running up his spine as Richard ran down his arm, Severin smiled lightly. "You brought stuff here?" He asked, a little slow to the world, but for good reason. That was very sweet of Richard, he really was a wonderful person. Severin loved him so much, he was glad that he had Richard to wake up to. "Sorry. Didn't mean to....surprise you" He said quietly, looking over at the other, feeling so much love for him. "You're so lovely. I....love you. So much......Thank you....thanks for being here."

Stranger: "I brought you some sweets and I brought you a blanket and some warm socks and some of your favorite movies," He explained and gently squeezed the man's arm. "I don't wanna be anywhere else, silly. I love you," He smiled and sniffled a little more, wiping at tears before they could fall with his free hand. Sebastian came in then and Richard left to let them have their alone time. "You idiot," Sebastian mumbled and wiped at his eyes, "You scared me half to death," He put his head down to rest his cheek on Severin's thigh. "You fucking bastard,"

You: Everyone was coming in and out so fast. He'd barely had time with Richard before he was gone, and he was reaching out for the man to come back. But then Sebastian walked in, and he was upset. More upset than he'd seen Sebastian.....maybe ever. He was pretty sure he was crying, and Sebastian didn't do that often. Frowning, Severin tried to sit up a bit more, trying to blink the fuzziness out of his brain. Taking his good hand, he ran his fingers through the other's hair, trying to show him that he was there. "Jus' doing my job, Bas" He muttered, taking a deep breath. "I'm gonna live. What'd the letter say?" He asked, curious as to how much information his family had been given.

Stranger: Sebastian nodded and honestly smiled at the feeling of fingers in his hair. God, how could he have let his brother get into so much trouble. It was supposed to be his job to protect him, for Fuck's sake. He was older by like thirty minutes! Closing his eyes, he sighed, "They said they were regretted to inform us. Ha. And then, uh, jeez. Then they said that you were severely injured from an IED. They said that your, uhm, condition wasn't exactly like able to be told at the moment and that you'd be staying in this hospital."

Stranger: ((brb))

You: Christ, that wasn't a lot of information. Though, at the time that he'd woken up, they didn't answer many of his questions either. He hadn't thought to ask too much, though. He was so drugged up, most of his time was sleeping or playing cards with the nurses that would let him. He wrote one letter to Richard, but he knew his hand shook. Frowning, he looked down at his brother, looking more distraught than he ever had. "Did they tell you more now?" He asked, looking over at the other. "I uhm, my left ear doesn't work, and I don't think I'm allowed to use this arm for a while" He said, trying to think it over. "They said they did surgery on my side. That stuff was in it. Did they get it out?" He asked, looking down, but seeing nothing with his hospital gown on. "Richie's here. Is Jim?" He asked. "Did you all come to visit? Or just you two?"

Stranger: Sitting up a little, he cradled his brother's hand to his face. "A doctor told us more. They said you're arm broke in a lot of places. So they set it, but I guess they like can't put a cast on it right now," Sebastian nodded and coughed a little. "And uh yeah. You're probably always going to be deaf in that ear. And you had shrapnel in your side, but they did surgery to get it all out... they said they're really amazed how well you're doing," He smiled gently. Severin was too fucking stubborn to die like that. "Jim's here. He's probably out there with Richie. He wanted to make sure you were getting the best care,"

You: They were all here checking in on him. That was pretty comforting, really. They all seemed to care, and as he looked up at his brother, he could see just how much he cared. Smiling lightly, he smiled. "Well, they're really good at drugging me. Can't feel a thing, it's...really nice" He said, turning his hand over to squeeze the other's. "I've been sleeping a lot" He added. He really had very little to report, he didn't remember too much. "Wonder if they're going to put pins in my arm. 'S already the bad one" He hummed, closing his eyes again. He was tired, he was drugged, he really didn't know how to pay too much attention.

Stranger: Sebastian smiled, stood, and kissed Severin's hand. "Go to sleep, ya bastard. You'll be seeing more than enough of us over the next few days," He left the room and Richard peeked his head inside, walking quietly over to the chair and taking his place again. "No, shh. Go to sleep. I'll be here when you wake up," He promised. Curling up on the chair, the actor forced himself to close his eyes and actually try to get some rest. ((we can stay here or we can time skip if you want))

You: ((We can timeskip. When would you like to skip to?))

Stranger: ((I don't know, but I feel like Severin definitely like would be really really self concious about how he looks, so Richard wants to see and I could see how that would start an argument once Severin comes home. Also like eventually he'd probably refuse to keep going to therapy and stuff))

You: He'd been home for two weeks now, but it wasn't like how he wanted to be home. Richard had been hovering over him, making him meals and putting his socks on, petting his hair back and remembering to take his medicine. Sebastian had been dropping by, driving him to therapy and making sure he was getting out of the house. They were all very nice gestures, but it was suffocating. He didn't want to be reminded of what happened to him, of the ugly scar, wrapping it's way around his side like lightning, except it wasn't smooth and beautiful. It was twisted and warped and not at all how skin should look. He hadn't let Richard see, even though it was technically a risk to shower without help, he'd managed. He kept a shirt on at all times, tried to hide the lighter scars that crept up his neck or across his cheek, where he'd skidded across the ground. He didn't want to go to therapy in any means, and he only left the house so Richard would stop babying him, but Sebastian was only mildly better. At least he understood Severin's need to do things. This morning, he was protesting a shower, despite it having been three days. "I'll take one tomorrow, Richie. I just want to drink my coffee right now. Sebastian took me out shopping yesterday, my arm's sore" He said, looking down at the mug in his hand. It had a picture of the two of them, before Severin deployed, a gift he'd given Richard as a way to remember him. Now, he just wanted someone to understand, but it didn't look like he'd be getting that any time soon.

Stranger: How could he understand? He hadn't been there, he'd been home, thinking everything was fine and that his Severin - the most important person in the world to him - was going to be home in three months. Then all of that came crashing down and he felt like he had to keep Severin in this bubble so he'd be okay. Richard just wanted to keep him. And he really did try to sympathize, but it was so /hard/ not to baby him. But the therapist had mentioned to him the other day that he really ought to back off, which hurt to hear. He'd made a comment about a shower at the sight and smell of Severin. Biting his lip, he nodded and picked up his own tea mug to bring it to the sink, "Did you maybe want to take a painkiller or..." He knew for a fact that the last painkiller had been taken almost five hours ago. It was when Severin was changing shirts - something he insisted Richard not help with because he didn't want him to see. But Richard desperately wanted to see the scars, he wanted to know what that damage was. He felt terribly guilty for feeling bad, he knew he was supposed to be strong here and that he had it much better than Severin, but he was so sad all the time now. "What do you want for dinner later?"

You: Things were tense now. Richard was either worrying incessantly or trying to shy away from him. He thinks it was because the therapist had told him to back off, because it's all Severin talked about. But the shrink was a quack, and was filling Richard and Sebastian's head with nonsense about how he needed this or needed that, or that a new set of pills might help ease the transition. But he knew he didn't even have reason to complain. Men died, men came back with missing legs or arms. All he had was an elaborate cast, a dead ear, and the scar to prove that he'd been an idiot. Looking over at the other, he sighed, trying to think about what to say. He wasn't really hungry, not when his arm was throbbing. He'd have to message Sebastian and ask him to pick up more, if he'd let them. He wasn't supposed to get a new bottle until next week, but his arm hurt now. It'd hurt more than he wanted it to, he wondered if he wasn't letting it heal correctly. Sighing sadly, he shook his head. "I don't know, Richie. I'm not really hungry" He said. "You don't need to work so hard. We can have leftovers tonight. We have plenty of those"

Stranger: Richard rinsed out his cup and sat back down at the kitchen table, "Yeah. We can do left overs," Prior to this, he'd been so excited to cook Severin all his favorite meals, was anticipating the reaction to the first bite of good homemade food, but dinners were awkward and the cooking never seemed to be just right. "It'll be kind of a hodge podge of food," He mumbled, thumbing the edge of the magazine he'd been reading. He'd been reading a lot online too - lots of women were saying the things they had to deal with when their husbands came home and some of it seemed a lot worse than what Richard was dealing with. But he really didn't want to let Severin know that he was studying his condition online. "We can watch a movie later," He suggested quietly, still looking down at his magazine, but not really reading the articles.'

You: Closing his eyes, Severin allowed himself to recompose. It wasn't the household he'd left behind. Then again, he didn't really feel like the same Severin. He was damaged, defected, and he knew the moment that Richard saw the scar that covered almost his entire right side that he'd either be repulsed, or that he'd feel so bad for the other all he could do was pity him. He wasn't sure what was worse, he hated pity. "What do you want to watch?" He asked. He'd stopped picking movies last week. He didn't really watch them. He sat there with Richard in his arm, breathing evenly until the movie was over. It was something to pass time, but his heart wasn't in it. His heart wasn't in much anymore. He'd tried drawing again, to the point that Sebastian brought him out and bought him a new sketchbook. It was something he had always loved, and the therapist had put the idea that if he started doing something he liked, that he'd have an outlet and it'd let him cope. But he couldn't draw the things he used to draw, he could only trace the pattern of mangled skin, or the look in Richard's eyes. It was too depressing to show anyone, and too depressing to keep on. So he'd stopped, almost immediately afterwords. He'd been spending his days laying around, getting out when someone pulled him out, but lately his favorite thing had been sleeping. He slept better during the day. At night he had nightmares, and they hadn't been doing him any good. "You wanted to rent that one about a zoo, right?" He asked, glad he actually remembered. "We could watch that tonight"

[ship-all-ships]

Stranger: It should've been me inside that car. AMM (23, Alex)

You: Shh-HWH

You: Stop blaming yourself-HWH

Stranger: You know it's not that easy, Hamish. AMM

You: I know, I know. But it's not your fault. It's okay-HWH

Stranger: If I hadn't insisted on changing cars, no one would've been hurt. AMM

You: Alex, breathe. You didn't know-HWH

Stranger: People are dead, Misha. You're hurt, too. It's my fault. AMM

You: I'm not very hurt. I'll be okay-HWH

You: You know, the doctors said I might come home tomorrow?-HWH

Stranger: Really? Your injuries are pretty serious. AMM

You: I've been doing really good!-HWH

You: I'll...have to move back in with dad for a bit, but I'm doing better-HWH

Stranger: With your dad? Why? AMM

You: Because he's a doctor, he'd know how to do all the stuff to make sure I don't hurt myself more-HWH

Stranger: Good point. AMM

Stranger: It'd be for the best, anyway. AMM

You: But I don't want you to be upset about this. It's not your fault-HWH

Stranger: It IS my fault. AMM

Stranger: [[brb]]

You: Alex, you changed cars. You didn't plot this accident to happen-HWH

You: Even then, it was no more than an accident-HWH

Stranger: Two people are dead. Ian STILL won't talk to me. AMM

You: Ian won't talk to me either. I don't think he's talking to anyone right now-HWH

You: Are you going to stop by and visit me today?-HWH

Stranger: Of course. AMM

Stranger: He's not talking to you either? You didnt do anything, though. AMM

You: I just don't think he's talking, Lex-HWH

Stranger: [Delayed] Everything is so fucked up. AMM

You: I know it is. We just take it day at a time-HWH

Stranger: I miss Ollie. AMM

You: Yeah, I do too-HWH

Stranger: His funeral is Thursday. AMM

You: I'll see if I can go. Would you like me to go with you?-HWH

Stranger: Yeah. Ollie and you were good friends, weren't you? AMM

You: Yeah. I've known him since we were little-HWH

You: Hopefully what the doctors said today will happen-HWH

Stranger: What d'you mean? AMM

You: That I'll be able to leave tomorrow-HWH

Stranger: Oh. I really hope so. AMM

You: I've spent all day drawing-HWH

Stranger: How's it going? Good? AMM

You: It's alright. I'm glad my dominant arm wasn't hurt-HWH

Stranger: That's definitely a good thing. AMM

You: Yeah. But the bleeding has stopped, apparently. And my memory is getting better-HWH

Stranger: That's awesome! It's definitely an improvement. AMM

You: Yeah. They still want me to go to a speech clinic though. Which is okay-HWH

Stranger: I think your speech is getting better, personally. AMM

You: Yeah? Thank you-HWH

Stranger: Hey, I'm almost there. Is your room the same? AMM

You: Yeah, same room-HWH

Stranger: Cool. I brought food too. Your favourite. AMM

You: You are the best-HWH

Stranger: I know. I'm nearly there. AMM With that, Alex tucked away his phone and let out a sigh as he secured his grip on the plastic bag. With his face trying to be neutral and Alex pushing his rather dark thoughts to the back of his mind, Alex went over to Hamish's room and knocked on the door before he entered, smiling. "Good afternoon, sunshine." He greeted, walking in and holding up the bag. "I got your favourite. Italian from Angelo's." The tattooed blond announced.

You: Hamish had been aching for human contact all day. His doctors were nice, and many of them liked him. His parents tried to visit every day, but today was too busy for them to have come around. He'd had gross eggs and fish soup for breakfast, and about three cups of jello, but what he missed more than human contact was food. Good, real food, and Alex was bringing both. Smiling brightly as the other came in, Hamish set his pencil down and sat up a bit more. "Lex!" He said, not having mastered all of the word Alex yet. "Th-thank you" he said, watching as the other came in, motioning for him to sit int he chair next to his bed.

Stranger: "Anything for you, Misha." Alex said with a grin and went over to the chair that Hamish had indicated, setting the bag on top of the counter and pulling the table close. Not before, however, he kissed the other's cheek. It was slow going, with Hamish's memory still messy and spotty in places. But their relationship was progressing slowly, since Hamish was starting to recall bits and pieces of it from before the accident. Alex wasn't certainly without his scars, the most visible one being a large, jagged cut starting from his temple down to his chin. But he was lucky, compared to Hamish and most certainly their mutual friend, Ollie. "It's your favourite. The italian carbonara." He said, taking out a plastic container and setting it down on the table.

You: Hamish closed his eyes and hummed happily as he was given a kiss on his cheek. He still wasn't completely sure if it was right to get all the butterflies he did, but he knew he loved Alex. He knew they'd been dating for a while, and that he really loved him. And he knew he'd been aching to have Alex crawl into this bed with him and hold him for days, but he'd been too afraid to ask, to know if that was okay for them. But he wasn't going to talk to Alex about that right now, he was going to eat the food that smelled so absolutely delicious. "It smell g-good" He smiled, trying to show Alex how appreciative he was. "Th-thank you" he said happily.

Stranger: Alex grinned as he took out a soda can and handed it to Hamish. "Of course, love." He said, then moved the table in front of Hamish before Alex took out his own box, which contained a piece of Lasagna, which Alex loved from Angelo's. "How was your morning?" He asked as he opened his own soda can and set it down. "Good? I know you said you've been drawing. how's that going, good?" He asked. The doctors did say to encourage Hamish to speak, so Alex tried his best to.

You: His morning had been boring, and he didn't really have the words to describe what he'd been doing. He'd had breakfast, had more blood taken, watched boring telly, started drawing. He was trying to draw memories of the two of them for Alex, he was hoping it would make him feel better. He'd been so worried over all of this, he just wanted Alex to take a break. Smiling at him he shrugged. "It's.....p-pr...g-going. It's go-ing" he said, flushing as he became embarrassed over his inability to say more words. He didn't like talking too much like this, it made him think about the immense vocabulary he'd lost, and how hard he'd have to work to get it back. "I w-wa-want to sho-ow you" he said, looking up at the other, looking over at the drawer next to his bed. That's where he'd put most of them, except for his last sketch, which was just of some of the flowers that had been sent his way.

Stranger: Alex gave a small smile. It was hard to watch Hamish struggle to speak. The accident had really messed them up, all of them and Alex just wanted to make all of it go away, to make things back to normal. But he knew that wouldn't be the case, not this time. He listened to Hamish, then gave a smile as he nodded and set down his fork. "Oh yeah?" He asked, then gave him a smile. "Well, you know I always love to see your drawings." He said with an encouraging grin, taking a small sip of his soda. God, he missed Hamish. Just being around the other cheered Alex up, even if it did bring some bad memories.

You: Hamish smiled. He knew Alex was hurting, but it felt so good to have him around. He always seemed to just be so happy with him, he made Hamish feel important. His parents would come and tell him he was making progress, and that they were making safe places for him to stay that wouldn't have so many stairs, and that John was happy to take care of him, but it didn't make him feel much better about being him. Alex just....wanted to be with him, and that made him happy. Slowly working, he tried to get the pictures out, spilling a few of them on the floor, but grabbing two or three. He sighed and decided to just start with those. The first one was the entrance of the art museum. "I k-k-kiss-'d you th-there" He said, licking his lips lightly. "In D-dec...in sn-now" He said, taking a deep breath, hoping Alex also remembered that and it wasn't juts some....false memory or dream he'd made up.

Stranger: Alex was quick to help Hamish when they fell to the floor. He was used to helping the other by now, but honestly? Alex didn't see it as a burden or even as work. He saw it as that he was helping his boyfriend, his partner, on the road to recovery. At least with Hamish, Alex could forget about the issues that were going on at the moment, like with Ian's silence or his own therapy or the impending funeral. He handed the drawing back to Hamish, then looked at the drawing and he gave a grin. "Yeah, I remember." Alex said. "It was fucking cold outside and you-" He playfully pointed at the other, "-forced me to go with you to see some exhibit." He said, then smiled. "You kissed me in order to shut me up about the cold."

You: Hamish couldn't help but chuckle when Alex pointed at him. He didn't know how Alex could make him feel so happy, or so loved, even when he was getting chewed out for bringing him to the cold exhibit. "De-gas" He said with a smile. "D-da-ancer-s" He sounded out, sighing at the end of that. He moved that sketch away from him and moved on to one of Alex's bed, his room a bit messy. They were all rough sketches, they were nowhere close to what Hamish would usually produce, but with the state he was in, it was the best he could do. He wasn't too upset either, it was something to do. "C-cud-dle" He said. "S-sick. We sp-pent a we-ek, tv" he explained, reaching his good hand out to squeeze Alex's hand.

Stranger: Alex gave a smile at Hamish mentioning the exhibit that they went to see. His memory was getting really good, Alex was impressed. While he knew that the sketches weren't what Hamish normally drew, Alex never saw a drawback. They were still a lot better than he could produce. He looked down at the drawing of his bedroom and the grin returned, nodding. "Yeah, I remember. I was sick first and you refused to leave me. Then, you got sick and we ended up watching all the seasons of Supernatural and Once Upon a Time in a week." Alex said with a laugh. "It was a really good week, though."

You: Hamish couldn't help but smile at that, nodding. Alex looked so much happier than when he first started visiting Hamish, and that made him immensely happy. Taking a break to have a few mouthfuls of food, Hamish returned with a sketch of a dog. It was a bit out of character of the actual memory, but the dog was there. "Str-ray" He smiled, petting the picture lightly. "By y-your work. Too-k her home" He said, looking up at the other. "Yes?"

Stranger: Alex took that time to eat a few bites too, then looked back down at the sketch of the dog. It wasn't quite exact, but at least Hamish had been close enough he could get. "Yeah, Stella." He said, then took out his phone to open up a picture of her. "You took her home indeed. And she's the most spoiled dog in London, I swear." He said, then showed Hamish a picture of Stella all curled up with Hamish as they both slept on the couch. "That's her and you. She's pratically attached to you at the hip. She'll be glad to see you for sure, love."

You: Hamish grabbed the phone in his hands and looked over the picture, a huge smile spreading over his face. She was just so precious, he was in love. Fat tears started to well in his eyes and sniffled, nodding at the other. "She. C-can sh-she come H-here?" He asked, wiping away at one of his eyes as he looked at the picture of the sweet baby. "J-Just f-for a-a h-hello?" He asked. He didn't know why he was so emotional, but those pictures made him miss her, even though he didn't completely remember everything about her just yet. But he remembered her, which was good. He hadn't remembered a whole lot right after he first woke up.

Stranger: Alex allowed Hamish to take his phone and he was kind of surprised at the amount of emotion that Hamish was displaying. He supposed he shouldn't be TOO surprised, considering that he didn't really remember much about anything, let alone Stella. He supposed that something in the back of Hamish's mind made him miss Stella. "Yeah, of course." He said with a smile. "If you want, I can ask your dads to bring her by. I'm sure she misses her human pillow." Alex grinned, giving him a wink. At least Hamish was happy, thats all that mattered to Alex.

You: Hamish smiled and nodded, handing the phone back to the other and recomposing himself. "I M-miss her t-too" He stuttered, taking a deep breath and eating more. After a few more bites, he showed Alex the next picture he'd drawn: one of a coffee mug. "I d-don-n't re-rememb-ber th-this one" He said, taking a deep breath. That disturbed him. He felt it was important, he could see it in his mind, but he didn't know why. It was dark blue, maybe purple, and there's a large crack along the side, which seemed stupid but it was still there. Frowning, he looked down, hoping Alex could remember for him, remember why it was important to him.

Stranger: [[brb, sorry!]]

You: ((ahha it's alright!))

Stranger: [back!]

You: ((yay!))

Stranger: Alex set his phone back in his pocket, then watched Hamish eat a bit more. Hamish was skinny enough as is and the fact that he really wasn't eating the hospital food certainly didn't do him any favours. At least he was starting to eat a bit more. When the next drawing came, he frowned and took it carefully as he studied it before he gave a small smile and looked back up. "Wow." He said, then looked back down and let out a sigh. "This one...it's a bit of a long story and one I don't think you want to know about just yet." He said, handing it back to Hamish. No, he was sure that Hamish wouldn't want to relieve the marriage proposal that had happened the day before the accident.

You: Hamish frowned at the other, confused and concerned. "Why?" He asked. It had been haunting him, because it was the one thing he had drawn that he didn't have an answer to, and then he was told he didn't want to know. "Why th-this....why's it...imp-por-t-tan-t" He asked. This was frustrating, he wanted to know what he was missing. He frowned and sighed, looking down at it, trying his hardest to remember for himself, but he spent a lot of time doing that already and it ended up making his head hurt.

Stranger: "Because, Hamish." Alex said and let out a sigh. He really didn't want to push the other's memory and cause the other to strain himself too much, but he was worried that telling Hamish would cause the other the freak out. "It was an important piece of our relationship." He said, then sighed once more. "Hamish, I promise that when you get better, I'll tell you. I just don't want to hurt you if I tell you too early."

You: Frowning, Hamish sighed and nodded, turning into himself for a bit. He took a deep breath and sighed, taking a few deep breaths and closing his eyes. He took a deep breath and nodded, slowly shaking it off, giving the picture to Alex to take and do whatever he wanted to with it. The next picture was a horse, a wooden one from a carousel. It was detailed, but the only thing that was on the page. "My B-bir-rthday" He stumbled, sounding quieter than before, a bit more timid and thinking about what he'd missed that was so important, yet he wasn't allowed to know about. "Th-this was my-my fa-vor-rite"

Stranger: Alex was really conflicted in telling Hamish about the engagement. He really didn't want to freak the other out, but would it be moving too fast? It wasn't as if he had anyone to consult on the issue; Ian wasn't speaking to anyone and Ollie was dead. For now, he put the picture on his lap and then looked at the carousel horse. Hamish's voice just made Alex feel more guilty. However, he smiled. "Yeah?" He said. "It was mine too. All of us had a really good day that day. Anything to make you happy." He said with a small smile.

[ship-all-ships]

Someday this will work

You: Moony, Pads is here, he's safe. Shaken, but mum said he should be okay eventually. He's staying with us for now. I think he's staying for a while, though he hasn't told us what's happened. He's not really talking. Sorry for the short note, I have to go back downstairs with things. I'll keep you updated if much else happens, but not much has happened yet. Prongs

Stranger: Prongs, He hasn't written me in weeks, I was beginning to get seriously worried for him. Please do tell me about anything that comes up, and when he starts getting adjusted and comfortable tell him to write me please. I know your family will take good care of him James, he's in the best hands he could be in. Moony

You: Moony, We got him to eat something, and we've put him to bed. He's not really sleeping, despite that he looks exhausted. Mom offered to read him a story, but he refused. I think he's trying to be proud. He's barely said anything though. Tomorrow we're going to see if he's willing to bathe. He's not particularly clean right now. He's also....he's twitching. He looks so exhausted, like he's in another world and then he'll twitch. His shoulder will twitch or his fingers will curl. I don't want to think about what happened. Dad said he might bring in a healer if it doesn't get better. I'm going to try and talk to him more later, I'll let you know if he says anything, I don't think he's up for writing just yet. Thanks for the concern though. Prongs

Stranger: Prongs, I didn't know it was that bad. Lord, he doesn't sound like himself at all. I'll give you a few days with him and all, but if it doesn't seem like he's doing any better then and you're going to call a healer, tell me. I'll try to find some way to come out there and visit him. Hopefully having us both there with him for a little while might help ease things a bit since he's used to us. Moony

You: Moony, He still won't tell me what happened, but he thanked me for letting him stay. He's been more coherent, but he still is having his moment. The twitching hasn't stopped, I heard mom whisper, asking if there could be permanent damage. It's....scary. I think you should come out for a few days if you can manage. We've only been able to sustain conversation about quidditch and mums garden so far, but I've heard him say your name a few times. In his sleep, or when he's supposed to be sleeping. I think he misses you too. Prongs

Stranger: Prongs, I've talked to my mum, she said that I can go as long as it's after the full moon, but we've only got a few more days until that. I can try to head out the next day, on Saturday morning. If your family doesn't mind I'll take the couch at your place while i'm there. I can't help but worry for Sirius immensely. If he seems more able to talk to me once I get there, I'll see if I can find out what happened. He usually opens up with me easily, but with something like this there's no guarantee. Moony

You: Moony, Sirius talked about you this morning. He knew what day it was, he said he hoped you'd be okay tomorrow. He's bathed. Still weak, but he's doing....alright. We'll be all ready for you to come over. I'm sorry we can't much help you out this month. Don't push yourself, alright? He's going to stress if you're not alright. Don't worry about the bed, either. I've taken liking to Padfoot's floor. He wakes up in the middle of the night. I like to be there to make sure he's alright. He'll be alright. Prongs

You: ((brb))

Stranger: By the time Remus had gotten the letter in the mail, it was already past mid day, so he didn't send one back. There wouldn't be enough time between now and tomorrow to have the letter get there any earlier than he would be there himself after all. So he packed up some things to go for the next morning, find he was in an odd mix of excitement to see his friends, and yet sadness and worry for Sirius' condition. The night passed as usual when he was home for the full moon, and the next morning he caught a bus to take him to James' place. It was a long ride, allowing for him to catch a little bit of sleep before he was standing on the door step, knocking hesitantly at the door.

You: James hadn't gotten a letter back, so he was ready for Remus to come if he decided to. He'd been keeping Sirius busy. Mrs. Potter had managed to get Sirius up, helping fold laundry this morning. By the time Remus came back, James had Sirius in the kitchen, sipping on tea. He was still twitchy, he was still weak, but he was slowly coming around and talking to the others. Perking up as he heard the door, James turned to answer, smiling widely as he met with Remus. "Come in" He said, nodding towards the back room. "Sirius is in the kitchen. Sit down, do you want tea?" He asked. Remus looked exhausted, and he could only think of what a wonderful friend Moony was, to come out here the day after a full moon. He'd make sure both of them rested today, because Sirius was still slow.

Stranger: Remus smiled at James and gave him a little wave in greeting. " Yes, please. Some tea would be wonderful right now. " He replied, stepping in the door and bringing his suitcase with him, leaving it out of the way as they went toward the kitchen. Remus was tired and sore, but the fact that he was getting to see his friends made up for it all. When he spotted Sirius, he gave the other man a smile as well, but it had to be half forced. It was so obvious that something was wrong, but he didn't comment on, didn't want to bring anything up about the whole situation. "Sirius, I've missed you terribly. " Remus couldn't help but comment as he took a seat, adding rather quickly. "Not to leave you out James, I missed you as well by the way."

You: "It's alright, I understand" James said as he began making tea for his friend. "I'm not as cute." Sirius smiled lightly, meeting Remus's eyes and nodding. He'd missed him too. He'd really missed Remus, even if he wouldn't admit it. He'd missed Remus a lot. Remus was always good for small remedies to make the aches hurt less, or for one little comment to make the bad day less bad. Even if it was just a really good snarky comment about Snape. James was great, but he wasn't as great at being so soft. Bringing his tea up to his lips, he took a sip before a twitch took over his shoulder, causing him to spill some of the tea. Grunting in frustration, he set the cup down, trying not to dwell on it or draw any attention. "How long are you staying?" He asked, trying not to make it look as though he was studying Remus, just because he'd missed him.

Stranger: Remus chuckled at James' remark, a little blush coloring his cheeks though it wasn't too noticeable. Then he noticed Sirius' twitching, but sensing how Sirius seemed aggravated by the twitch, he didn't pay it much mind, doing his best to seem like he hadn't even noticed. "I don't have a specific date to be home by, but my mum wants me to try to keep it to a week here at most. I wouldn't want to overstay my welcome anyway." He answered, thanking James for the tea once it was brought over to the table. "So how has the summer been for you guys so far?" He tried, not sure if it would be good enough to have Sirius even hint at anything, but it was worth a shot.

You: "You're always welcome here" James said, bringing Remus his tea before settling down next to Sirius, his own cup of tea in hand. He'd seen the stain Sirius had made and frowned. He'd been getting better about it, but it was still predominant enough to concern everyone. They didn't talk about it though, they knew better than that. There was awkward silence for a few moments as Sirius stared at his cup, focused on the tea in it, or so that's how it seemed. He didn't have words for how his summer was. It was horrendous, but he hoped that being here would alleviate some of that. Finally speaking up, James chuckled "My cousin got a dragon this summer. Or well, tried to smuggle one into the house. Nearly burned it down. My aunt had a fit, but I got to play with it a bit when we visited."

Stranger: "That sounds pretty exciting. Must have been one eventful day for all that. " Remus sipped at the tea, letting it fill him with warmth and it helped him relax into the chair. He tried to come up with something to add that he had done, but truth be told his summer was pretty much the same as usual. "I've read some new books, but nothing else too exciting. " It wasn't much to say, but it kept the conversation going. Remus risked a few looks at Sirius when he thought the other wasn't paying attention. It was as if he expected to find the answer about what had gone down just written there, but of course that was foolish and certainly not the case, so he came to no conclusions other than that Sirius didn't look nearly as well as usual.

You: The conversation once again died, not to anyone's fault, it just......did. Trying to find a way to get everyone to talk, trying to get Sirius to engage, was difficult. "You started reading something new, didn't you, Pads?" James asked, his foot nudging the chair. Fingers curling into a fist for a second, Sirius scowling at it, he nodded. "Your mom had it. It's about plants. Dull" He shrugged, turning back to Remus, looking up at him again, studying him. He looked so weak, but so determined, and that upset him. He didn't have to come back today when he should rest, when he knew he was in pain and probably dying for a nap. Sighing, he leaned his chair back. "I miss your muggle books" He said honestly to Remus. He always had something in there he'd never heard of, with images of fairies that were inaccurate, or ideas about mermaids that were absolutely not true. And the idea of magic was wonderful. He liked to steal those when he could.

[ship-all-ships]

Stranger: [Seb walked in on his son, making out with Hamish, they haven't spoken since.] Are you angry? AMM

You: Angry isn't the word I would use, no-SM

Stranger: What word would you use? AMM

You: I'm still working on it-SM

You: Surprised?-SM

You: Shocked-SM

You: A little disappointed-SM

Stranger: Oh.. yeah. I guess surprised would be the best. AMM

Stranger: You're not gonna tell Pa, are you? AMM

You: Why shouldn't I?-SM

Stranger: Because I'm your only child and you don't want to see me dead? AMM

You: You knew who that was though-SM

Stranger: Yes, I knew.. AMM

You: But you pursued-SM

Stranger: I did. AMM

You: Which, deserves to be punished-SM

Stranger: I guess. What kind of punishment do you imagine? AMM

You: I don't know yet-SM

Stranger: I.. I could take care of your next job. AMM

You: Alex.....no-SM

Stranger: Why not? I'm good at jobs. AMM

You: I love you too much to give you my next job-SM

Stranger: Has it something to do with Hamish? AMM

You: It's classified-SM

Stranger: Dad.. AMM

You: Alex-SM

Stranger: That's my name. Great how you pointed it out. AMM

Stranger: What do you mean with it's classified? AMM

You: It's classified. I'm not allowed to talk about it. I've said too much-SM

Stranger: Usually you don't care what you say around me. AMM

Stranger: You never did. AMM

You: Alex, please-SM

Stranger: Tell me. AMM

You: Just be ready for a call from your boyfriend soon-SM

Stranger: What the fck?! AMM

Stranger: What do you have to do?! AMM

You: He'll be safe, I promise-SM

Stranger: And I should believe you right? AMM

You: Yes, you should believe me because even though I don't like what you're doing, I'm your father-SM

Stranger: If he gets hurt I'm gonna kill somebody. AMM

You: Physically, he'll be fine-SM

Stranger: Psychically he will be damaged or what? AMM

You: Nobody will touch him-SM

Stranger: Good. HWH

Stranger: AMM*

You: Just....be prepared to be a good boyfriend for a bit-SM

Stranger: I'm always a good boyfriend. AMM

You: Yeah, alright-SM

Stranger: Misha, you alright? AMM

You: Me? Yeah, I think so. Just got home. Are you?-HWH

Stranger: Yeah, just a bit.. uncomfortable. Your parents home? AMM

You: Yeah, downstairs. Papa was going to make tea-HWH

Stranger: Okay, good. AMM

You: Is everything okay, Lex? You just seem....nervous-HWH

Stranger: I am. Because of Dad, but everything will be alright. AMM

You: Did he do something? Is he mad because he saw us?-HWH

You: Are you okay?-HWH

Stranger: No he's not. Disappointed in me. Yeah. AMM

Stranger: I am. Don't worry. AMM

You: Right-HWH

You: Maybe you should lie down for a bit, you sound sort of frazzled. I'll call you in the morning-HWH

Stranger: Okay, I will try. AMM

Stranger: If you don't I'll come and look if you're still home and alright. AMM

You: I'll be fine, Lexi. Dads are spending the day in tomorrow. It'll be okay-HWH

Stranger: Alright. Feel free to call me whenever you want. AMM

You: Alright, I'll do that. I love you-HWH

Stranger: I love you, too. AMM

You: [7:05 am] So...I'm awake but my parents are gone. Gone gone gone, and the coffee table's knocked over I don't know how I slept through it but Papa's phone is on the floor and dad isn't answering my messages and I'm trying to be smart like Dad and deduce something but I can't. I don't know what happened, but I'm scared. What if they come back?-HWH

Stranger: WHAT?! I'm gonna... They won't come back! I'm sure. You don't have to be scared baby. AMM

You: My parents are /gone/ Alex, how can I not be scared?-HWH

Stranger: I'm gonna find out where they are. And you can phone your uncle, thought he had cameras in your living room. AMM

You: Oh yeah. Yeah he does-HWH

You: Okay I'm going to call him. Can you maybe come over though? Just so I don't have to sit in this house alone?-HWH

Stranger: I'll, give me.. five minutes and I'll be there. AMM

You: Okay. Okay thank you-HWH

Stranger: Try to calm down. AMM

Stranger: I'm gonna come in as always, through your window. AMM

You: Okay, okay yeah. Just...be loud about it or something. I'll be sitting in the living room. I'm ahh, putting tea on now-HWH

Stranger: Okay, I'm already on my way. AMM

You: Alright. Thank you. I love you-HWH

Stranger: You're welcome. I love you, more. AMM

You: ((sentences??))

Stranger: ((Sure, do you want to start or should I?))

You: ((I can start!))

You: He wasn't usually a heavy sleeper. Though, he wasn't one to wake up at seven in the morning either. Something about today was different. From Alex being off last night, to waking up with an empty and messier flat. He'd forgotten to tell Alex that the front door was still open, but with all the little details around everything, he didn't much think it mattered. He was sitting on the sofa, staring at his parents' chairs when he heard movement upstairs. He tensed, but told himself it was only Alex, and that he would be alright. Alex was supposed to be here soon. He'd forgotten about the kettle he'd put on, but by now it'd already turned itself off and he couldn't care. His mind was a mess, Mycroft said he would look at the footage, and now all he had to do was calm down.

Stranger: Alex had made his way to 221B and was now climbing in through Hamish's window, like he did most weekends. It wasn't something he enjoyed doing but it thrilled his nerves. He had a knife hidden in his boot and a gun hidden as well, because he wasn't sure if Doctor Watson's was still there. He went downstairs, already studying the hall and as he entered the living room he ran towards Hamish. Hugging him tightly Alex sighed and checked him for any wounds. His father had held his word, he wasn't hurt. "Are you okay? Do you feel weird?" He asked, already pacing up and down in the living room.

You: As thankful as Hamish was for Alex to be there, his nervous energy wasn't helping. Clinging to the other as they embraced, he allowed himself to shake a bit. He was more than scared, this type of thing just didn't happen. It wasn't supposed to happen, at least. Things /had/ happened, but Hamish had never woken up alone, to a mess like this. Then, when he was looked over, forced to show off skin of all strange places to show Alex he wasn't injured, he simply did as he was asked. It wasn't until he watched Alex pacing that he really began to be nervous. Because Alex was usually calm, he was usually the one to ground Hamish and now he looked scared, he wasn't even hiding it. Swallowing thickly, Hamish nodded, trying to come up with words. "Yeah.....I mean, I'm not okay. My parents are missing" He said simply, biting his lip to gain composure a moment later. "Uhm....but I'm still good, I guess. I mean, you said I wasn't hurt so......just a bit nauseous, but I do believe that's warranted"

Stranger: The blond held himself back and was really proud of himself that he didn't kick something and so he sat down. "Is anything missing? Have you checked?" He asked, getting up again, studying the living room. He knew the way how his fathers people worked and he knew the pattern of his Dad, so he tried to remain composed. "Do you know how they got in?" Alex asked and knelt in front of his boyfriend, trying to sound calm and soothe him. He had to be a good boyfriend, he reminded himself and cupped his cheeks. He couldn't sit still, but looking at Hamish and speaking with him, somehow worked to calm Alex a little bit, even as he didn't know what exactly to do now. The front door flew shut as a gust of wind went through the flat and he frowned.

You: There were a lot of questions, but Alex seemed to be calming down, so Hamish tried to do the same. Taking deep breaths, he tried to remember if there was anything stolen, but he didn't know. He hadn't been thinking about that, he hadn't been thinking rationally. He'd been afraid, shaken. He'd spent his time trying to calm down, to stay sane and not cry, not look to see if there was anything in the house that was out of place. Shaking his head, Hamish felt his panic start to pick up again. "I don't know, I don't know" He said, nearly jumping out of his skin as the door slammed. He hadn't even realized there was an air current to do that, but there was and that was only more discerning. Tears rising to his eyes, he did everything he could to choke them back. "Fuck" He whispered, wiping at his eyes and standing up on wobbly knees. "Alright, so we should see if anything's missing. Any of their stuff, yeah. I ahh....we can do that. I...lets just start here" he said, walking over to the bookshelf, holding onto it as he looked to see if anything there was missing.

Stranger: Getting to his feet as well, Alex followed him and hugged him from behind, feeling how he tensed beneath him. "Misha.. It's okay to be afraid. I was too when my parents were away. We'll find them." He said and nuzzled his cheek, holding him tightly against his chest. He knew he couldn't see anything with the tears in his eyes, but he let him do whatever he wanted, perhaps it was calming him. Together they searched after a while for something missing in the flat and Alex was always ready to get his gun or knife out. When he was protective over somebody, like he was over Hamish, he would do anything to keep him safe and happy. "Do you want to call somebody?" He asked, holding his hand tightly and listening to the sounds of the flat. Nothing was rustling or cracking under his boots, he hoped that was a good sign. As he heard somebody at the stairs he got his gun out and pointed it at the person. It was just the landlady and he went pale. "Sorry, Ma'am!" He quickly apologized.

You: Everything was scary, and Hamish was only trying to keep it together. He searched through the books, but they didn't look out of order. That was good he supposed. He kept Alex close, searching for ten or fifteen minutes before taking a break to hide in Alex or close his eyes and regain his composure. He'd shake his head every time he was promised that it was okay to be scared, or was asked if he wanted to call somebody. He wanted to call his parents, but he had at least fifteen times with no answer, he wasn't going to try again, he knew it was pointless. When he heard footsteps coming up towards him, he couldn't distinguish whose they were. Hiding behind Alex, he waited until he found Mrs. Hudson at the other end. He quickly made Alex lower the gun, walking over and giving her a hug, telling Alex to make tea as he explained to her what had happened. There wasn't much anybody could do, but maybe the act of sitting with someone friendly would be nice, even if he did have to explain who Alex was and why he was here.

Stranger: Quietly he went inside the kitchen, putting the kettle on and getting three tea mugs out. "Sugar and milk?" He asked, coming back after a bit with a tablet where everything was on. Just as he walked back into the kitchen he to get his gun back from the table he noticed a note. 'Leave him alone.' It read and he already knew who left something like that. Taking deep breaths he came back out and sat down on the floor, pinching the bridge of his nose, to calm down. It was hard for him to stay calm, seeing Hamish threatened wasn't something he liked and the fact that his parents had to do with it didn't make it any better. "Misha?" He asked softly, touching his knee to get his attention for a moment. "I'm gonna phone somebody. Won't take long." He said and squeezed his knee before getting up to phone Sebastian. Mrs. Hudson watched the boy closely and listened to Hamish, nodding along and frowned. "Shouldn't we phone the Detective Inspector? I'm sure he could help..." She mumbled, sipping her tea.

You: Hamish had been busying himself with Mrs. Hudson and conversation among her. He could only focus at one thing at a time. He'd spent more time than necessary putting his cup of tea together, asking if Mrs. Hudson had ever seen something like this, if she'd heard anything this morning or last night. When Alex got his attention, he could only frown. Alex was obviously upset over something, and he wanted to know what, but he had to let Alex do as he had to do. He nodded, letting Alex walk into another room before turning his attention back to Mrs. Hudson. "I called Mycroft. He said he'd inspect the footage. Maybe I should call Uncle Greg too.....I don't know" he sighed. Sebastian had been doing his best to relax before Jim had more work for him, making the two of them breakfast when he got the call from Alex. Grunting, he plated a meal for Jim before excusing himself to another room completely. "Hello?" He answered, obviously displeased.

Stranger: Mrs. Hudson patted his knee and nodded. "It's up to you, dear. But it seems like you got yourself a nice young man." She tried to change the subject, taking another sip of her tea. "Do you want to tell me where you met? He seems..." She thought about her words a moment and shrugged. "He seems different. A good different." She smiled a gently smile at the boy, making herself another cup of tea. Alex was furious. "What the fuck were you thinking when you destroyed his flat?" He whispered angrily, knowing how thin the walls were in this flat. "And kidnapped his parents?!" He walked up and down in the bathroom, playing nervously with the gun. He knew he played with fire, when he talked like this to the sniper, but he didn't really care at the moment. "His Uncle is checking everything. I don't want you to go to prison or something like that. And he just wants his parents back. Tell me where are they, Dad?"

You: Hamish could only be thankful for Mrs. Hudson. She was good at diffusing something, she was good at focusing on the good when nothing seemed to be so. "Oh. Yeah, he's good to me" Hamish said, blushing as he thought about it. "But Dads don't know, just...for the record. They might have to after this but....we met actually...so I was trying to act like a tourist for a weekend. Pretending to get lost and doing all that stupid stuff, and he noticed me and asked where I was going. He ended up taking me on a date, that...turned into the weekend. It was really cute, and really stupid, and he saw through my lies first thing, but he didn't let me know right away. And turns out he had brought me on the date because he saw someone following me and being kind of creepy, and in trying to be a tourist so much I didn't realize it. I don't know. It's....a really weird story. I don't know how to explain it all." Sebastian sighed, rubbing his temples as he heard Alex go off on him. "Listen, I told you not to take the job. Now do you understand?" He asked, getting snippy with the other quite quickly. "I didn't touch the kid, didn't even sneak in the window, even though it was the easiest point of entry without breaking locks. God damnit, Alex, I'm a professional. Do you know how much of me they have on camera and I've never once been caught? I'm not an idiot." He sighed, leaning his forehead against the wall. "I can't tell you anything else, alright? It's one of Jim's games. And if you keep poking your nose in it, he'll make one for you and I can't guarantee Hamish's safety then."

[ship-all-ships]

Sad HP Wolfstar

You both like wolfstar.

Stranger: Remus quickly scrubbed the dishes in the sink that were left of last night's dinner with the old gang. It had been a little get together since they couldn't on Halloween but very worth it. It had truly felt like they were a family again. The Beatles record switched to the next song, 'Yesterday' and it being Remus' favorite, he hummed along. "Sirius do you mind turning it up? I can't hear it from here." He called out to the living room. Hearing the music made him forget there was a war going on. (This is /the/ night of the tragedy. I headcanon that these two were living in a flat together. You can decide whether they raise Harry or to continue canonly.)

You: Sirius was humming along in the living room, getting his things ready. He was planning on visiting Peter later today, to make sure he was still doing well. He seemed stressed last night, and he was going to check up on him. Smiling as he heard Remus, he did just as he asked, turning the volume up as was asked of him. He then walked into the kitchen and snuck up behind Remus, hugging him from behind. " This is your favorite, yeah?" He asked, humming along and dancing to the tune happily. Life seemed well, his friends were well. Even though they were in the middle of a war, Sirius was happy.

Stranger: Remus turned the knob of hot water a little further before he felt strong arms wrap around him. A found smile lifted his face to a brighter expression and he continued on happily. He had good music, a wonderful boyfriend, and a two month supply of chocolate in the cabinet he just received from Dumbledore. All was well in his mind. Of course there was worry but Remus tried to take it one day at a time. Sirius helped him with being grounded instead of going at a hundred constantly. He leaned back to return the affections and gave a small nod. "Mm...Across the Universe is my favorite album. This is the record James got me I think." Remus thought aloud to himself mainly before turning his head slightly to Sirius. "...do you really have to go out?"

You: He had reason to worry, Sirius knew, but he had to make sure his friends were safe. They needed to protect each other, so yes, he did need to go out. Sighing, Sirius nodded, walking back over to Remus and leaning against him. "Re....you saw how Peter looked last night. I just want to make sure that he's alright. It'll be in and out, and back by dinner" He promised, getting up on his tip toes to kiss Remus's nose. "You know I'll be safe. Don't worry" He promised. It was tense, he knew that, and nobody was leaving the house as much as they wanted to, but the war would be over soon, they all hoped. And until then, they were making do.

Stranger: "You could at least let me come with you...I haven't been out of the flat in ages." He murmured to the other, still not feeling okay about Sirius going out. It was just something that made his hair raise, something in his gut. Remus tried to just take a deep breath and look over at the other. He tried to just capture the image of Sirius like this, content and smiling and with that spark of interest and adoration he had for the scarred man. Remus huffed before turning off the water and wiping off his hands. He pulled Sirius into an embrace and said softly, "I love you. And I worry about you. Constantly." 'I love you' was still a bit of a new term for them to say to each other. Especially during this time.

You: Sirius felt his face heat up as he heard Remus tell him that he loved him. It always made him melt a bit. He was so excited when they began saying so that he flew over to James's to give them the update. Remus wasn't very happy with him for that, but it was quite funny in the long run. "I love you too, Moons" He hummed, pulling away a moment later to look the other in the eye. "I'm just going to stop over. If I'm not back before sunset, then you have reason to worry, alright?" he tried convincing Remus. "And tomorrow, if it's not as cold, we'll go out somewhere, yeah? But you hate my motorcycle, and that's the quickest way of getting around." He said, taking a deep breath, his hand rested on Remus's chest. "I'll be fine, I promise. It's just a routine visit. Everything will be fine"

Stranger: Remus paused before grabbing his hand and pressing little kisses against his fingers. Soon they began spreading to his wrist, then his arm, finally Remus wrapped an arm around his lovers waist and began to push his lips against the soft skin beneath the black locks. "Mm...there isn't anything I can do to change your mind? You stubborn man..." Remus asked teasingly, making sure to keep his words breathy against his skin. He ran a hand up Sirius' shirt and began to rub little circles into his spine using his finger tips.

You: Remus knew just how to make Sirius melt. Light kisses all over his skin, and the other pulled tight, it made it very difficult to pull away. "Re..." He huffed, grunting at the feeling of the other so happily against him. "What if I get there and something happened?" He asked, looking up at the other, a hand running up to cup Remus's face, his fingers brushing against the other's cheek. "A few hours at the most" He said, leaning in to kiss Remus on the lips, taking his time with it. "And then I'll be back here and we can do whatever you want, you....beast" He said as he felt Remus still close to him, still trying to persuade him.

Stranger: Remus sighed as he rested his head against Sirius' as well and held his hand, holding on tight. He was terrified actually. He gave a humored scoff and stared down at the other, drinking in every bit of Sirius he could. God...nothing in his life really went well. Nothing ever did until Sirius and he could just feel the hooks in his heart that Sirius had in him just get deeper. Why did he feel like it would just take one word to have his whole world come crashing down? Remus cupped his cheek as well before kissing him again, making it slow and meaningful. "Sunset, Siri. Be back before sunset..." He mumbled.

You: Sirius could feel the worry of the other, but he couldn't quite pull himself to not go visit Peter. This war meant nobody was safe, and with the way Peter had been looking last night, he figured it'd be safest to just make sure he was alright. A quick pop in, a cup of tea, and he'd be home. Nothing to worry about. He wouldn't let himself think of the bad or the scary. He could be scared later, when he didn't have things to do, people he loved to protect. "Sunset" He whispered, hating to leave Remus all alone, but knowing he had to. "Be safe while I'm gone. I'll be a few hours at most" He promised, a hand running up to play with Remus's hair for a moment before he pulled away. "If something's urgent, send an owl to Peter. Ours is pretty fast, you know" He said before pulling away, forcing himself out of the flat and to his bike without looking back to see Remus's face, which he was afraid would keep him from going.

Stranger: (Would you like to do a timeskip?)

You: ((sure! And sorry, did you send something before? Sometimes my computer gets glitchy. If not that's fine, I was just curious))

Stranger: (Oh i did! one sec)

Stranger: Christ. Would those be the last words he ever said to Remus? Would that be the last time he ever saw the man whom he poured his heart out for? Was it the last time- Remus clutched the front of his shirt and bowed his head, trying not to have a panic attack. They happened more frequently now, usually he was calmed by Sirius. Sirius. God. Remus quickly made his way to their room and snatched Sirius' t-shirt he had been wearing yesterday, pressing it against his face and breathing in deep. It was okay. Things were going to be fine. It wasn't the end of the world.

You: It was well beyond sunset by the time that Sirius had returned. He'd gone to visit Peter, but by the time he'd gotten there, Peter had left with no sign of forced leaving. It was all too odd, so he immediately left for the Potter's, and by the time he'd gotten there the house was destroyed, and Hagrid was taking baby Harry away. He'd asked what had happened, but he didn't need to ask, he already had an idea. He'd been numb since he'd seen it. He'd been numb when he stunned Hagrid and stole Harry, he'd been numb when he drove back, taking longer than he was supposed to despite needing to get home to Remus. He was simply numb. He couldn't feel the pain yet, he couldn't feel the loss. It was all too much. Walking into the flat, baby wrapped in his arms and asleep, Sirius locked the door, put an extra spell on it for precaution, and then quietly walked into the living room. He'd wrapped Harry up in his coat so the baby wouldn't freeze, but that meant that his body was much colder than it needed to be. Not that he much realized. Blank expression on his face, he didn't say a word. He was looking for Remus, making sure he was safe, but he couldn't trust his voice. He didn't know what would happen if he opened his mouth.

Stranger: Remus was beyond himself as it was past sunset, a good two hours past sunset and still no sign of Sirius. He sent several patronuses to Sirius and other Order members but no one had any answers. No one could eas the fear that ate away at him like a disease. No. No this couldn't happen. Not now. He couldn't handle it right now. He had been fighting for so long, not just in the war but all his life it seemed. Just fighting and trying to keep his head afloat. And now he was drowning and no safety was there for him. But Sirius promised, he /promised/- The sound of the door click had Remus grip his wand tight and cautiously walk to the living room, it raised to fight. He didn't shake, he was too used to this by now. But then... Remus would never forget the look on Sirius' face upon seeing him holding his Godson. Remus felt air leave him as he lowered his wand and the puzzle began to finish up in his mind. At first he was stunned, then horrified, next disbelieving, then... "Sirius." His voice was pathetic, he sounded exactly how he felt. He didn't even realize the tears already beginning to fall to the floor and hang from his chin. "Sirius...you came home." He felt his voice crack at the end as he felt the sorrow of the situation. Remus walked over slowly before kneeling down in front of him and pressing a hand to Harry's soft cheek, careful not to disturb. On his head was a scar, something that gave Remus chills. Dark...dark magic.. He shook his head before reaching up to cup Sirius' cheeks and trying to be steady. "Look at me Sirius...please.."

You: Sirius wasn't sure he could really look anywhere, he could look but he wasn't sure he could see. He wasn't sure he could see anything but the house, the fate that his friends had lived. That was his brother, his best friend.....who was now dead. He didn't completely realize that Remus was right there with him until he felt the hands on his cheeks, and blinking slowly, he shook out of his daze and looked up at Remus. He looked how Sirius felt, and he couldn't blame him. Swallowing thickly, he did his best to find words to say, but he didn't know what to say. "They....Lilly and....James" He choked, feeling hot tears come to his eyes, but he didn't want to cry, not right now. But his sorrows got the better of him, and soon he was weeping, his head hung down above Harry, who had no idea what had just happened to him, to the world. Shoulders shaking, sharp breaths, and tears wetting the jacket Sirius had wrapped Harry in, the man began to sob, leaning forward towards Remus as he did so. He was working off of instinct right now, and all he could think to do was be close to those he loved, to be there with them for as long as he could. Because even though he'd tried to be fearless in this battle, his bravery had caught up with him and he was now utterly petrified.

You: ((I'll brb I have to do something quick. I'll be back in a few minutes))

Stranger: (okie doke)

You: ((back!))

Stranger: It was like a wall hitting him, a driving force just taking out his air in one violent motion. Sirius didn't need to say it. Remus knew. He understood exactly what was happening. Yet at the same time he didn't want to understand. Accepting this reality would mean accepting two, possibly three of his best friends in the entire world were dead. A world where Harry would never get to know Lily's adoring smile of the proud twinkle in James' eye. A world where James and Lily would just be another tragic couple to muggles but /they have no idea what those two did, what the could've done, made a difference/. Sometimes Remus let himself get too comfortable and the rug would be pulled from him. Sometimes he forgot that nightmares can come true too. He held Sirius tight as the sobs managed to break free and spill out like a dam. Just endless it seemed. Remus felt his words and sobs choked as his insides turned cold. He could only say Sirius' name, as it was the only thing keeping him here, in this moment. "Sirius..no. Oh God, oh /Merlin/--" He would say, mind too scrambled to think straight. And suddenly a thought came to him. "Peter?" He breathed out as a question. And then Harry began to cry.

You: Harry's cry had set Sirius back into reality, away from the burning house, the depression of what was in side, what all of this meant. Harry's cry grounded him, because this small baby he was now responsible for, he had to take care of him. Quickly rocking the boy, Sirius stood up and started bouncing around, knowing that James did that sometimes. The thought of it hurt too much, but he was focused on Harry. "Shush shush. It's alright. Uncle Padfoot has you" He said, ignoring Remus's question for the moment. He had to calm Harry down. And when he had managed to do so enough that he was no longer screeching, he took a deep breath and looked Remus in the eye. "He's the spy" he whispered, shaking his head. "Gone. No sign of force. He was the secret keeper, Remus I-I shouldn't have backed out. I-" He started mumbling, pulling Harry close to him, keeping the baby calm to keep himself calm. That's all he could think to do right now, and if it worked, he wasn't going to argue.