#-the circumstances surrounding the plumbing

[gardenstateofmind]

i honestly was not mad about our landlord keeping the whole security deposit because those dumb bitches literally broke the plumbing by flushing tampons down a basement toilet

like the plumbing literally had to be replaced for that toilet, specifically because of an incredibly stupid thing the tenant did. i don't think the landlord should necessarily have to pay for that.

but my mom is saying that it's illegal for him to keep the deposit over that since it happened several months before the lease ended. she said he should have charged us at that time and if we didn't pay it, then he could have taken it out of the deposit.

i do not have the energy to argue about that, especially since i would feel really wrong trying to get out of paying something that genuinely was on us as the tenants. like yeah it sucks for me and selbbep to lose out on our $750 each since we're not the ones who broke the toilet, but like. that's what you sign up for when you sign a lease with other people.

[pfhwrittes]

i’m so deeply sad at the moment that i’m surrounding myself in fluffy fluffy fics and just hoping for a soft landing for myself but when i try to write it’s just either a) minimal effort or b) so fucking sad

like i’m trying to write a retail hell au with the tf141 boys but yeah. anyway have some notes under the cut about where i’ve stuck the boys so far.

so imagine with me that for whatever reason tf141 end up working in B&Q (home depot for those of you over the pond)

gaz works in the kitchens, bathrooms and bedroom department as a designer/consultant. why? because he’s pretty and can charm anyone into an upsell. oh you came in to get a quote on cheap sanitary ware (toilet, sink, bathtub/shower)? suddenly the customer (“client, they’re always clients. sounds better y’know?”) walking out with a £2000 order containing new tiles, a waterfall shower head, walk in shower array, £120 basin taps, a new towel warmer and a beautiful mirrored cabinet. you love watching him work because he’s just so charming and personable. always shoots you a wink from behind the computer too.

simon works stockflow. he’s in the warehouse or yard exclusively. smashes through deliveries and stock at a rapid pace and then stands in the yard smoking. no he doesn’t need any help, fuck off. leave it alone you’re going to fuck up his system. incredibly territorial over the yard/warehouse and only lets john, soap, gaz in. has a hand written sign pinned by the doors “NO ENTRY UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES. ESPECIALLY FOR YOU.” the store a manager takes it down periodically. simon puts it back up. nods at you when you pass the entrance to the warehouse but doesn’t speak. coincidentally he seems to be by the entrance shuffling delivery notes or paperwork whenever you walk past.

soap technically works the interior decorating department. technically. he loves working on the paint mixing desk and flirting with all the women that come up looking for just the right shade of whatever trendy colour has been advertised in home and gardens this season but will absolutely wander off to go bother price/gaz/simon/you whenever he feels like it. constantly being called for on the tannoy system “this is a staff announcement could john mactavish please return to the paint desk, customers waiting. that’s john mactavish to the paint desk. thank you”. you’re positive he ignores the first tannoy call just so he can hear you get more exasperated on the second and third call you put out for him.

price is the hardware, electrical and plumbing supervisor and technically the stockflow supervisor. barely ever steps foot in the warehouse aside from a quick check in because he knows simon has it covered. hates management meetings and always finds himself something time critical/difficult to put down when he knows there’s one coming up. a constant presence on the shop floor. always the first supervisor to respond to the tannoy when a customer is kicking up a fuss at the customer service desk. always seems to know where you are, whether that’s on the customer service desk, serving customers on the checkouts or putting away go backs in various aisles. checks in frequently with a little smile and a “alright love?” before moving on to whatever task he can do to keep him out of the store manager’s sights. reminds everyone to take their breaks regardless of whether or not they’re technically part of his department.

[mags0142]

Nobody’s Son, Nobody’s Daughter

Part V

Hello my loves, here’s the fifth part of my little fem reader x edmund fanfic.

I hope you’ll enjoy!!

Word coun: slightly above 3,6k

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After his pleasing bath Edmund eventually went to bed and tried to push away any remaining thoughts of their visitor. And soon enough he fell asleep, much easier than usual these days.

Althea on the other hand was distraught, hurt, furious. Not only was this Y/N genuinely useful for their investigation, Edmund, his Edmund was starting to fancy her,

However, Althea had to stop himself from continuing further with these thoughts. After all, he knew very well that Edmund was not attracted to men. Even if he wanted to, and knowing Edmund's kind heart he would if he knew, he could not love Althea the way he wanted to be loved.

The King was grateful that he had gotten a good night's rest for the first time since the death of his siblings. In a way however it made him feel guilty. This felt like he was beginning to move on and it felt wrong to do so. It had only been a couple of months at this point.

When the message had reached him he thought the pain would never subside and in a way he was happy about that. Edmund felt responsible for their death, he thought it to be a just punishment to be carrying the hurt until the day he died himself. It was only right, especially because the hurt was supposed to weigh as much as the love he felt for them, infinite. He didn't want the hurt to end because it was a reminder of the love he still felt for Peter, Susan and Lucy. He feared that if the pain was subsiding so would the love, the memories and everything else. Edmund was now the only person in the entire world to know about England, their homeland, their upbringing, their mother and their father. He felt left alone with all this knowledge of a past life that had been wiped from all the records. He felt lost, like a child in a busy market whose parents had wandered off, who was surrounded by tall, scary lookong adults who walked past him.

He stood up and went over to his dresser, pulling out the flashlight he had brought with him to Narnia. The batteries had died ages ago but to him it was still a reminder of the lives they used to live. Of technology, development, the war and their world, their home.

With his siblings' death died not only his family but also his entire past. Edmund loved Narnia and he was proud to rule over this wonderful land, however he did miss England sometimes. He missed the friends he had back there, the convenience of technology, trains and flushing toilets. Susan had tried to introduce the Narnians to the concept of plumbing and trains but they had no interest in learning about all that. Sometimes this all felt like a very strange dream. He didn't admit it to anybody but ever since they had passed Edmund wondered if the wardrobe they first stepped through was still somewhere out there. He wondered if death travelled between worlds or if his siblings would still be alive and well somewhere in England.

In times like these he mostly missed his father. When Edmund was still a boy his father could help him navigate the difficult moments, he would take his hands and lead the way, hug him tightly and give him courage and some good advice. But now Edmund was alone, he felt utterly alone in the universe and he was grieving not only their lives but also his own. Aside from the difficult task of suddenly ruling over an entire kingdom on his own he now also felt responsible to keep their memories alive. No one who was here with him had known him as a child, no one knew even just his parent's names. Despite being so well liked and established in Narnia he couldn't help but feel like a stranger. Like a tumor which had developed here and needed to be killed off. As if he didn't belong here. Narnia was never meant to be left to one single ruler. Their entire rise to power was based on the circumstance of them being siblings. It was rooted in their deep understanding of each other and the ways in which they complemented each other. Being alone felt wrong, it felt lonely. Edmund was torn between embarking on a desperate search for them or staying here to hold down the ship, praying that this was all just a huge misunderstanding and he would hear their voices coming up the stairs in their old house in England one more time.

Without realising Edmund had sunk to the ground and had begun silently sobbing. He clutched the flashlight to his chest struggling to breathe.

"Your Majesty!" Y/N exclaimed as she arrived at his door. The King looked at her as if he had seen all the horrors of the world. "I apologise your Highness, yesterday at the dinner you asked to meet me early this morning to continue our work- I apologise I-" she tried to explain but quickly stopped because the King began calling for something, someone unknown to Y/N through his tears "Dad, dad please ... please come... help me .. dad.." Y/N made a decision then which she knew to be risky but proceeded with anyway. She rushed over to where Edmund lay on the floor and scooped him up, resting his upper body against hers and gently stroking his hair while her other arm held him tight. "It's okay Your Majesty, you are not alone, you are safe, let it out, let it all out." she whispered reassuringly as she held him tightly. She pressed his ear to her chest, hoping the steady sound of her heartbeat would ground him a bit. She sat with him for a long time, holding him as he worked through his tears and called names of people unknown to Y/N. She did her best trying to comfort him and guide him through his pain. It dawned on her that he was not aware who she was at the moment. She felt this anonymity gave her a certain freedom. "Your Majesty, it is all good, you will be fine, I am here ... Edmund, listen to me, I am here. Edmund." his name rolled easily off her tongue. It was foreign to her native language, or any language she knew for that matter but it was a name she liked, it was peculiar but fitted this unique man in her opinion. "Edmund, try to breathe, Edmund." At the sound of his name Edmund slowly calmed down. His feelings hadn't stopped but he was exhausted and he suddenly felt as if the situation had improved somehow. He came to his senses and his vision cleared up. When he realised where he was, in the state he was, with who he was, his eyes widened in shock and embarrassment. "Miss Y/N I am deeply sorry I - I do not know what - I" Y/N felt equally embarrassed and could barely hold back the blush which filled her cheeks "No no no I am sorry Ed- Your Highness. I am sorry if I crossed a line, I never meant to intrude on your privacy like this. You were so very distraught and I was concerned for your safety, I am endlessly sorry." Edmund took a few deep breaths "don't be .. I .. I must admit I lost my composure there and I do appreciate you.. taking care of me."

The two remained this close for quite a while, perhaps longer than necessary. It felt nice to be held like this and even Y/N, through all her efforts to remain professional, had to admit that being this close to such a remarkable man made her feel a bit giddy.

Eventually however, Edmund got up "Y/N, please, after this endeavour, would you please join me for breakfast." he offered and put on a charming smile, extending an elbow to her. Y/N gave him a polite smile and grabbed his elbow "I would be happy to, Your Highness"

Edmund led the two down to the dining hall where a lavish breakfast was already waiting for them.

This time the words came more easily to him. Edmund felt that this involuntary display of vulnerability broke some sort of ice between them and he found himself rather comfortable around Y/N, happy almost.

Althea watched Edmund's sudden change in behaviour and couldn't help but be slightly disappointed. To him it looked like Edmund was trying to seduce her after his newfound pleasure from last night. As if he was simply trying to get her to sleep with him, jeopardising their entire work as a professional team.

After the breakfast Althea practically scolded Edmund "Edmund, please, I understand that you are yearning for.. intimacy , but please satisfy this desire by calling on one of the mistresses, not by serenading our most useful resource in this investigation."

"Excuse me Althea, what in Merlin's name is making you say that!"

"Do you think I don't notice the way you look at Y/N, the way you talk to her. I understand that she is an attractive young woman but don't lose sight of what is important. She is not your toy to play with !"

"Althea! Stop this at once, you know very well I respect women far too much to ever view them as a toy! And I have no intimate intentions with Y/N. I enjoy her company. That is true, I find her to be intelligent, well-educated, pleasant to work with and caring. Yes, she is attractive but we both know I am not one to go around seducing women."

"Caring? ... Whatever, please keep in mind that she is here only for this investigation. She is an employee of the royal court of the Yuvak, even if you two enjoy each other's company her stay here is limited."

Their conversation did lead Edmund to questioning his behaviour towards Y/N. He understood that exploring these feelings was not only dangerous but also in vain, because she was not his to keep.

The following weeks were filled with work and a close collaboration with the Yuvak people. Thanks to Y/N's help a good relationship was established between the two kingdoms and they combined their forces to work against the mysterious men threatening the stability of monarchies. Edmund's excellent military leader skills came in handy and he was able to contribute to the safety measures taken.

Edmund felt like they were making serious progress even though the end of this struggle was still far away. During all this time he tried his best to keep a respectable distance between him and Y/N.

He tried to satisfy his desires and distract himself with other women but his mind always wandered to her no matter who he was with.

Slowly summer was starting to spread its warmth and brightness. This meant their annual Summer's Night ball was approaching. Y/N had heard of it. The two sisters had started this tradition to celebrate the start of the new season, and secretly to find a match for their oldest brother and perhaps themselves. The ball started the official season in the capital and families from all over Narnie came to try and find matches for their children.

"I will bring the seamstress to your room to get you fitted for a dress." Ruth explained cheerfully. "I'm sorry, Ruth please, my current wardrobe is more than satisfying. I do not need a new dress." Y/N tried to shake it off. "But Miss of course you do, attending the Summer's Night ball without a proper dress would be wildly inappropriate."

"The ball? I had no idea I would be attending Ruth, I have not received an invitation." "Yet," added Ruth "You must know, we, the servants, we talk to each other and King Edmund's messenger boy just so happened to catch your name on one of the invitations. Your invitation has been sent out, it just hasn't arrived yet."

"Oh ... in that case I must apologise, you were right then."

While Ruth rushed away to get the seamstress Y/N couldn't help but smile to herself, being invited to a ball by a proper King was certainly exciting and being able to wear a beautiful gown made her even more giddy.

The dress turned out beautiful. It was a proper ball gown and combined with the jewellery she was allowed to borrow for the night Y/N felt like a princess.

Once the ball had started Althea came to her chamber to collect her "Y/N, soon the King will arrive, we should head down."

He had a rather complicated relationship with Y/N, while he did appreciate her help he felt hurt that she got all this attention from Edmund without even trying. However, he also had to face the fact that ultimately this was not her fault. As much as he wanted to blame her he knew better than anybody else that one's feelings were not always obedient.

The ball was breathtakingly beautiful. The decorations, the music, the food, the people, everything was perfect. Y/N's diplomatic heart was filled with joy as she was able to exchange with people from all over Narnia and even beyond that. She enjoyed meeting so many new people and as the night grew darker she became more energetic, dancing with many people, except for one.

The King was dressed in a suit which fit like a second skin, making him look exactly the right amount sophisticated and sexy at the same time. His dark hair was flowing perfectly in the warm breeze of the night and the handsome smile he put on was intoxicating. His face was clean shaven to show off his perfectly chiselled jawline. His broad shoulders were nicely framed by his jacket and the rings he wore highlighted his strong, veiny hands.

Y/N felt a strange fuzzy feeling in her lower abdomen when he entered the hall. With him being the only monarch of Narnia, and unmarried, many royal women made an attempt to get closer to him. Mothers and fathers, eager to marry off their daughters to the best possible man, were flocking around him like vultures surrounding a carcass. He entertained some of them out of politeness but he knew he wasn't interested in any of them. He only had eyes for one woman, who was currently spinning over the dance floor in a dress more beautiful than all the stars in the sky combined. When he looked at her he could no longer resist the feeling of desire that overcame him. He was so full of her he could barely eat that night. The fabric flowed in a way that made it look like she was floating and the colour perfectly matched her skin colour. He recognised the jewellery she was wearing, the sparkling diamonds were part of the royal collection. These pieces didn't initially belong to the Pevensies, they had been passed down from past monarchs. He was so caught up in the way she looked he didn't even wonder who gave her the permission to wear them.

When she eventually left the crowd of people to catch some fresh air the King sneakily followed her.

He found her on the balcony of the grand library, leaning against the railing, looking out into the summer night. She looked so happy, so beautiful so much like Y/N the man couldn't help but approach her. It was as if his mind and reason had given over the control of his body to some primal urge which he had tried to bury unsuccessfully and which was now breaking out of him like the eruption of a volcano.

"Y/N!" he called and she just managed to turn to face him when he cupped her face and pressed his mouth onto hers before she could protest. Perhaps it was the alcohol she had consumed but Y/N saw no issue in leaning into the kiss. She gently pressed her hands on his chest and this time it was her turn to feel his heartbeat. Only he wasn't calm, his heart was beating rapidly and it matched the eagerness of his kiss. She couldn't help but smile. "Your Highness I-" "Please" Edmund panted "call me Edmund, at least for now, at least for tonight."

"Edmund, I .. I don't know what to say." "Don't worry Y/N I already know everything I need for tonight" he whispered and grabbed her waist, kissing her roughly as he carried her to one of the tables and setting her down. It was as if they had given up control to their hidden desires. In the privacy of the darkness with the crowd only being a background noise the two finally let loose. They finally gave in to all the attraction they had been feeling and denying themselves for weeks. If it weren't for the clothing between them their bodies they would have devoured each other whole. Y/N felt how strong and muscular Edmund really was. She let her hands travel over his broad shoulders and down his chest until she could feel his defined abs underneath his shirt. It was intoxicating to be pinned down by such an attractive man. After all, Edmund was head of the royal army, he was the best soldier they had of course he was incredibly fit.

Y/N considered herself a well off woman, she enjoyed the pleasures of education and employment, in many ways she saw herself as equal to most men she encountered. But there was something so arousing about the clear dominance Edmund had right now. The way he was leading the kiss, holding her body in place and shielding her from their surroundings so that all her senses were consumed with Edmund, Edmund, Edmund.

Her mind was blank, all she could feel was the wetness between her legs and subsequently the hardness growing between his. Y/N rarely engaged in intimate activities, it was a side effect of her profession that she had to maintain a certain distance between herself and almost anybody else. But she was more than happy to leave that behind for tonight as she let her hand travel down Edmund's body and into his trousers. When she finally grasped his aching cock Edmund let out a strained moan "Oh fuck Y/N, you have no idea how much I have wanted this, how much I have wanted you, needed you." Y/N ceased the moment of weakness and switched their position. With Edmund being pressed up against the edge of the table she slowly sunk to her knees while opening his trousers. She looked up at Edmund and met his desperate eyes, screaming for relief, panting as he gripped the table. She looked deeply into these dark eyes and she knew right then and there that not even a guillotine could take away the head she was about to give to this man.

With that she dived in, she engulfed his penis and began to suck on it like a starving woman devouring her meal. She used her hands to work over the length she couldn't cover with her mouth. The girth and length of his cock was intoxicating and she found herself enjoying the sensation of her lips being stretched open. She put in all the effort and Edmund's delicious moans and grunts made it more than worth it to her. "Bloddy hell Y/N for fuck's sake keep going- please- I - argh" Edmund struggled to speak, his voice sounded raspy and he seemed out of breath, so instead he grabbed her hair and guided her head up and down his cock. Y/N happily gave it her all and relaxed her throat to take in more of him. She swirled her tongue around his tip as she sucked. Edmund gripped the table so hard he almost broke off a chunk. Y/N blinked away the tears forming in her eyes and looked up at him with the most innocent look she could put on and Edmund almost went feral in that moment. All the feelings he had ignored, the yearning for her touch, it was all catching up to him at lightning speed and he was overwhelmed by pleasure. With her performance and his pent up desire it didn't take long for him to unleash everything he had into her mouth. Like the eager woman she was, Y/N diligently swallowed every last drop and proudly showed off her clean tongue to the man struggling to stand above her. "Y/N I - I have no words, I haven't felt this good since .. I don't even know" he picked her up and kissed her once again.

"Edmund, please, I'm afraid, the guests, they will have noticed your absence by now" Y/N whispered, afraid to speak the words herself.

Reluctantly Edmund stopped kissing her and gently put her down on the table again "as always Y/N, you are correct .. and I will return but please, I beg you, come to my chamber tonight instead of yours, I would hate for this to be our only encounter." he adjusted his clothing and fixed his hair before cupping her cheeks once more. "Please, consider this a pause, not an end." he kissed her sweetly one last time and gave her a wide smile before heading back to the ballroom.

So, Y/N was left alone with her own arousal, she didn't feel neglected though but rather motivated to get what she wanted later. She took her time to adjust everything and hide any evidence of their little meeting before also returning to the ball.

[sunflowernyx]

He knows who she is the moment she steps through the door. And it isn’t just his doctor.

Dana Katherine Scully, age thirty-three. Short, slim, with short red hair — though he only knows the last part from the file — she is the youngest doctor in the oncology ward of the Holy Cross Memorial Hospital.

What the file doesn’t describe, what her black and white photo does not credit her with is elegant features, as if she were carved in marble by an ancient Greek master, or wide blue eyes that swim with the right balance of heavy respect and sympathy to make it genuine, personal. What the file doesn’t prepare him for is the aura of professionalism and kindness that makes Mulder want to trust this woman with his life.

And, to his credit, it isn’t that she is breathtakingly stunning — there is too much at stake in this small room, with its bright LED wall and sterile equipment, and not just his life. No. It isn’t even all the competence that radiates out of her exemplary scientific journal entries displayed on his shelf at home. Though those two facts do make him think of staking more than his life on this impossible, predestined, chance meeting.

It is simply the way she narrows in on his face with humanity and says his name like she already knows him, knows the burden he is carrying.

“Fox Mulder?” He nods and receives her hand. “I’m Dana Scully, one of your oncologists. I’m sorry we have to meet under these circumstances. It must seem disorienting to come face to face with a new doctor in the middle of the process.”

He finds a smile so easily in the face of her. “Not all that disorienting,” he assures her. “Nor surprising. As you may have noted from the file I’m very eager to fight this thing, so inviting in new doctors has been a recurrent decision.”

And he has the means to do so, he doesn’t add.

She’s difficult to read, Doctor Scully. When she presses her plumb lips together, he can’t tell if it’s to keep back condolences that he has come to the end of his rope and is now being treated by someone young and comparatively inexperienced, or a note on the funds he’s using, looking for a cure.

But the fire he sees in her blue eyes gives him hope that the young and comparatively inexperienced may be more willing to risk and be reckless.

“Well,” she says, “let’s see if we can’t meet your expectations somewhat today.”

Scully flips open the file she has on him and produces several x rays, newly minded and fresh off the press.

Even in her white lab coat, she is a foreboding black silhouette  against the white LED wall surrounded by a series of sculls, and even without her translation it is clear that the cancer has yet to leave him alone.

She distracts herself momentarily, looking around for a chair, and Mulder is struck by the consistency in her kindness. He has been invited to sit enough times to know from the gesture that this will not be an optimistic delivery on her part, but a cursory look around the room should have made her note the lack of chairs, and Scully taking her time to doublecheck tells her all he needs.

With nothing tangible to offer him, Scully gestures instead for him to take a step closer.

“Don’t worry,” he assures her, taking advantage anyway to fall into her field of gravity. “I won’t faint at bad news.”

She finds his eyes then, attention drawn, and Mulder is pleased to see a smile crinkle at there corner of hers.

“I don’t think you should try to catch me anyway,” he adds, keeping his voice low.

Another spark, defiance, crackles in her impossible eyes. “That’s my job, Mr Mulder,” she admonishes him. “So I will.”

He grins, a flash of teeth.

Oh, Doctor Scully is interesting.

She doesn’t like being reminded of her short stature or the expected strength difference inherent in their bodies, but it doesn’t matter. Because right this moment, Scully seems the most formidable, most powerful defender of his life that he could ever entrust his fragile body to.

“So,” he says, with real cheer. “Cancer.”

Closer now, he can see the red circle she’s marked a white growth with. Right between his brows.

“Yes,” Scully confirms, her voice shifting to one of complete medical professionalism. “It’s a Nasopharyngeal mass,” she says. “It’s a small growth on the wall between the superior concha and the sphenoidal sinus. A tumor, in other words. But you already knew that.”

“I did,” he admits, rubbing the soft skin between his brows carefully.

Seeing it confirmed right in front of him like this once again sends a burning sensation through his body, his grief like a phantom pain his brain cannot yet express in any other way.

It’s been his constant companion for five years now.

“It doesn’t look like it’s grown since last time,” he observes, keeping his eyes glued to the profile x ray.

If it pushes into his brain, he knows, he will have no chance of survival. 

And no matter his hatred towards himself, the odd sensation that the planet has found a way to punish him appropriately for his betrayal, he cannot die. It is simply not a possibility he is willing to entertain or humor.

Beside him,, Scully shifts silently. A distraction that draws him.

“I hate to have to correct you, Mr Mulder,” she says. “But, while it hasn’t grown towards your brain, it has widened its reach horizontally and vertically.”

She produces another frontal x ray from his file, the one from a couple of months ago. Silently she places the two x rays beside each other, and shows him with a specialised electronic ruler how it has grown. Almost nothing to the naked eye, but there it is in clear digits, black-on-green.

Mulder keeps very still right at her side.

“What can you do?” He murmurs, when he can no longer simply stare at the evidence of his body having taken up his habit of self-destruction. 

He doesn’t ask if surgery will solve it. He already knows what the answer will be.

When she turns the full front of her body to him, it’s like she’s dragged him out of a trance, freeing him from having to face himself. And Mulder mirrors her, the easiest thing in the world.

“The truth is that the type and placement of the tumor makes it difficult to the extreme to treat and impossible to operate.”

Mulder stares down at her, and is reminded of another set of wide blue eyes, another bob of hair, the colour of which he can’t accurately discern. Vertigo hits him so powerfully, his hand flies out to steady himself.

The LED war buzzes under his hand like a thousand bees, unsteadying him further.

It’s a slow thing when he falls apart. The crumbling of his limbs like an ancient building that loses its foundation across history. The strength goes, and he glides down the electronic wall like a man sitting himself in the chair.

His sigh falls between his fingers, warming his palms.

“I have to refuse to believe that.”

There’s a tiny rustle, as his tiny doctor kneels at his side. A warmth on his shoulder as she connects their bodies, touches him for the first time since their introduction.

“Of course, you have to fight this,” she says. “And I’ll do everything I can to help you live—“

“No,” he corrects her, looking up from the darkness of his own hands. “This isn’t about me.”

Lit by the LED wall behind him, Scully is a flame of light that gives life to his shadows.

“I have a daughter,” Mulder tells her. “A tiny, four year old sprout of a girl. I have to live for her.”

That is it. That is all. Everything that defines Fox Mulder is the child entrusted to his protection and care, gifted to him to keep him in line. And he will do anything, sacrifice anyone, to keep her healthy and smiling.

If that means keeping his sorry ass alive, then so be it.

“Okay.”

Mulder doesn’t know what he looks like, but he sees the moment that he becomes less of a hollow of a man and much more a fire alike to hers in Scully’s eyes. He sees the shift in the blue when he becomes more human than patient, when she understands what gives him a reason to live.

“Okay,” she says again, nodding, as if his quest has become hers. “Of course. Let’s start with that.”

Find full chapter here!

[irlactualhuman]

Looking for an apprentice.

No pay.

No fungible or tangible benefits.

The things you learn will only be usable at your expense. Every form of magic shares its essence with you and likewise.

A "cost" is an inaccurate way to describe it. It's a merging. You become it somewhat more than you were, and it becomes you. This may have unintended consequences. You have no one to blame in such a circumstance. That is what learning feels like.

Except Love. That's always there. You're made up of it. You can't become more of it. You can only choose to acknowledge and feel it.

Will be made to understand that you can't actually love anything. That love is not an action. It's something you feel when you interact with any part of the universe because the universe always feels love when it interacts with you.

Will be made to plumb the depths of your imagination and your soul and thereafter be confronted (sometimes painfully) with the fact that it is, in fact, a blueprint and functioning conduit for the entirety of the universe that surrounds you.

Will be made to understand that 'surrounds you' is the same as 'is you' and 'is within you' and 'of you'.

Will be made to believe simultaneously two separate facts that seem to conflict intrinsically.

Interested partied need only send me an ask or dm.

Or something. Maybe speak it into the wind at a time on a day that seems particularly vociferous. Perhaps pet a found turtle with supercillious intent and beckon the error of your ways. I usually follow.

Serious inquiries only.

Edited for accuracy. I realized i had unintentionally allowed the flawed views of someone who taught me to modify the way in which I've been interacting with magic for quite some time.

Ya learn new stuff every day. I can guarantee a dearth of boredom, if nothing else.

[dragon-creates]

Just How Fast The Night Changes (Does it Ever Drive You Crazy?)

Chapter 1/Chapter 2/Chapter 3

Read on AO3

Trigger warning, this chapter does describe panic attacks and flashbacks of childhood trauma so again, always feel free to skip this fic. Again, this was written and posted on ao3 before the Mario Movie came out. Other than that, enjoy and feel free to leave constructive criticism!

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Present

Well, this was fantastic.

One minute, Luigi was just doing his job, fixing the pipes at an abandoned factory with Mario, their business had taken off ever since…Anyways, he was there one minute and then the next he was being chased down by some type of dinosaur skeletons, before hiding in an abandoned castle, then being tied up by some hooded figures and dragged along to someone that they were calling ‘King Bowser’.

When Luigi finally had a moment to process everything, he was then met face to face with the most terrifying thing he had even seen. Sitting of a throne was some sort of reptilian beast, he was absolutely large with sharp teeth that would devour Luigi within seconds. Luigi gulped; he really did not want that to happen.

Once the hooded figures untied him, the king slowly descended down the steps of his throne and made his way towards the green clad man. Before Luigi could even think about running, a blue aura wrapped around him and pushed him towards the beast, who was much larger up close. From what the beast told him, he was King Bowser of the Koopas, he wanted to rule the world and apparently was also looking for his brother. He had pulled at his moustache hairs, demanding if Luigi know about his whereabouts, to which Luigi replied pathetically with Mario’s exact description thinking that he could throw this king of his brother’s track…then his moustache got ripped out.

He had screamed at the top of his lungs, stopping when the little men in red hoods dragged him down to the dungeon. And now he was here, in a cage hovering above lava, next to a star who couldn’t stop talking about death and no doubt was going to be interrogated about his brother again soon.

Despite this being a bizarre situation, Luigi wasn’t surprised that it happened to him. Out of the two brothers, of course it was going to be him to end up in some type of hellish land. Maybe he deserved it after everything he did. Who was he kidding, he did, he just hoped Mario was safe.

.........

Luigi couldn’t tell how long it had been, he couldn’t see the sky, so he had no way of knowing how much time had passed. All he knew that the guards had brought him a few meals and that he did sleep a couple of times, but that was it. He was about to fall asleep again when his cage shook and vaulted him up in front of a koopa guard.

He unlocked Luigi’s cage as the plumber nervously walked out. “Is this yours?” the guard asked as he flung a bag to the ground. It was Luigi’s plumbing tools! “How did you know this was mine?”

“I didn’t,” the guard said, “You just told me yourself.”

“Oh,” dammit Luigi, you and your stupid mouth.

“Follow me,” the guard ordered, turning on his heel and away from the dungeons, Luigi following. The less he was near that cage, the better.

While he was led hallway to hallway, Luigi took the time to observe his surroundings. The ground was a polished red marble covered with soft red carpet, and the hallways had beautiful matching wallpaper embroidered with gold. Despite his circumstances, the place was quite lovely.

Finally, they had arrived at some type of shower room. “This shower over here isn’t working,” the guard informed him, “Since those tools are made to deal with these sorts of things, you can work on this.”

“Uh, why me?” Luigi asked.

“You’re a plumber, right?” the guard queried.

“Well, yeah but-”

“That you have the abilities to fix these,” he finished, “If you do a good job of this, then we’ll find more work for you to do around the castle. Its better than being in that cell of yours, isn’t it?”

Was this Bowser’s idea of interrogation, get one of his soldiers to make Luigi due free labour? “Did your King tell you to do this?”

The guard was silent for a second, seeming as though he wasn’t expecting for that to be asked of him. “Get to work,” he replied bluntly and turned away as he kept watch of the door.

Luigi shrugged, whether Bowser ordered it or not, he was just glad to be out of that cage. The shower was an easy fix, despite this being a magical land it still had the same pipes as the ones in his home. He did look over his shoulder once in a while to check that the guard was still there, though as he checked one more time before he finished the pipe, he saw that guard was shyly waving at someone. He looked to the door and saw another koopa guard waving back with the same shyness before walking away. The soldier sighed longingly as the other departed, like he was in…oh.

“So, who was that?” Luigi asked.

The guard jumped and turned to Luigi, his face beet red. “I beg your pardon?!” they squawked.

“Sorry, sorry!” Luigi giggled, “It just seemed that you knew them, that was all.

“Th-they’re no one,” said the koopa, “Just one of my companions.”

“Well, they seem to really like you,” Luigi smiled.

“Y-you’re in no way shape or form to make those statements! Get back to work!” the koopa yelled.

“Of course,” Luigi sighed, “Sorry,” He went back to the pipe, just a few more adjustments and he was done. Why did he even do that? It wasn’t like he knew the koopa, why was he talking like they were friends? That was so stupid, just so stu-

“What gave you the indication that they like me?”

Luigi whipped round, “Come again?”

“You said that they might like me, right?” said the koopa, blushing, “If courting is the same back at your world, do you think they might like me back?”

Luigi wasn’t really an expert in relationships, that was more Mario’s thing. Every time he tried to for romance, it always ended up in embarrassment, heartbreak, or someone expecting more than he could ever give. But he was a romantic and did see how Mario wooed the ladies.

“Well, seeing as they reacted the same way you did when you waved at them, something tells me that you might have a chance with them,” said Luigi.

“Really?” asked the guard, “Do you think that’s possible.”

“I can’t say for certain,” Luigi told him, “But I have a feeling that you should give it a shot, and if it doesn’t go well, you can blame me.”

“I’ll…keep that in mind,” the koopa straightened him back, “Are you finished?”

“Yup,” Luigi nodded, “Should be right as rain now.”

He turned the knob and just as he predicted, water came out of the head and onto the ground. “Perfect,” said the koopa, “Now that you’ve proven yourself, I suppose you-”

“What is the prisoner doing out of his cell?!” a loud voice rumbled throughout the ground, spooking the guard and Luigi.

“King Bowser!” the guard gasped and bowed as the king towered over him, “Forgive me your highness but I found tools belonging to the prisoner and found an opportunity to fix the showers. Forgive me my king, I should’ve informed you first, but my enthusiasm got the better of me.”

Bowser looked to the guard and then to Luigi. The man gulped, the king’s stare piercing right through him and making him sweat that he doubted was from the heat.

The king grumbled under his breath before turning to the guard. “You’re dismissed,” said Bowser, “But if you don’t inform me next time then there will be consequences, do I make myself clear?”

“Of course, your highness,” the guard agreed, “Shall I take the prisoner back to his cell?”

“No,” the king replied without hesitation, “I want to speak to him myself.”

Luigi felt like he was going to vomit, while he was glad the koopa didn’t get into trouble, he was definitely more worried about what was so important to the king that he wanted to speak alone with him.

The guard hurried out the room, giving Luigi one more glance before disappearing.

The king stared at Luigi, who in return tried to hold his gaze. While the king still looked abnormal to the plumber, there was something else to him that Luigi couldn’t explain, something that gave him a sense of warmth despite how startled he felt at the moment.

“So,” the king finally spoke, making Luigi jump, “You managed to fix the pipes,”

“Y-yes,” damn his stutter, “Y-your g-guard just w-wanted it f-fixed.”

“I see,” the king mused, looking at the pipes, “What else can you do?”

Oh, no one else asked Luigi that before, expect for Mario. All anyone really expected from him was plumbing or as a gateway to his brother, but that was fine, it was like Luigi had anything of value to offer like his brother, he wasn’t brave or outgoing or-

“Are you going to make me wait all day?” Bowser growled.

Luigi nearly jumped three feet into the air, “O-of course not! I-I-I-…. I can bake!”

“…you can bake?” the king raised an eyebrow.

Honestly, that was the first thing Luigi can think of. He felt embarrassed it out loud now, Mario always told him about how much he loved Luigi’s baking, but it never meant everyone else did, especially terrifying royalty.

“I see,” Bowser hummed as a smile curved on his lips, however it wasn’t full of malice or cruelty, more like amusement or curiosity. “Follow me,”

Since the king bigger than Luigi, really big, his steps were much larger, so Luigi had to run in order to keep up with him. It seemed that the king had noticed this however and stopped abruptly, making Luigi skid to a stop and slamming into the king’s leg. Now it was his turn to turn red as the king looked down at him. Luigi thought that he was going to be eaten until Bowser scooped him up and carried him with one arm. If it wasn’t for the situation at hand, this was almost quite nice, he kind of missed being held.

They had passed a dining hall with a long table with a massive chair at the end, presumably for Bowser, and the king led Luigi into a kitchen. He gently placed Luigi into the floor as Luigi looked around. “Since you proven that you can be useful, you can bake for myself and the other inhabitants in this castle,” Bowser announced.

“R-really?” Luigi asked, someone actually wanted him to bake?

Your baking is amazing weegee, you need to let others see that!

No, no! Spike’s right, it’s dumb. Besides, they’re not even that good anyway.

“Make something while I’m gone and I’ll try it when I’m back,” said Bowser, “Just to make sure it’s edible.”

“O-oh,” Luigi fidgeted with his hands a little bit, “S-sure.”

The king huffed and turned to go out the door but stopped and turned to Luigi one more time, “Make sure you don’t burn the place down Greenie.”

As soon as he left and Luigi was left alone, all he could do was think about what he could possibly make. What would the king even like? Chocolate cake, apple pie, cookies? Luigi rubbed a hand down his face, he had to focus, maybe he could start somewhere simple. In the end he gathered up the ingredients and assembled a fluffy vanilla sponge cake, complete with a delicious buttercream frosting.

The king came back into the kitchen as Luigi finished piping the frosting. “Looks nice,” he murmured.

“Oh, you think?”

“First we need to make sure it tastes good as well,” said Bowser, grabbing a knife and cut a slice for himself and lifted it onto a plate.

Luigi held his breath as the king took a bite. Bowser paused mid-bite, his eyes widening. Oh no, he hated it, Mario was wrong he was a terrible baker, he should’ve listened to Spike and now he was going to be roasted alive and never see his brother again, all because he baked a stupid cake!

“This is amazing,” Bowser finally replied.

“W-what?” Luigi needed to hear that again, did the koopa king like his cake?

“This is the best thing I ever tasted!” The king beamed, taking another bite, “Its incredible, how did you learn to bake this this?!”

Luigi couldn’t believe it, someone liked…no…loved his baking. No one ever wanted to try his baking before, Spike had always told his that he shouldn’t bother with something so ‘mundane’ but yet here he was, standing in front of someone loved his simple dish. “Thank you,” Luigi whispered.

Bowser looked at him again, as Luigi’s eyes filled with so much joy and happiness that even he started to feel a bit affected by it. Bowser cleared his throat, “Since you’ll be helping out a bit more often there no point in sending you back to the dungeon. I’ll tell Kamek to set up your living quarters, while you wait the kitchen is free for you to use.”

Bowser turned and walked out the kitchen, cake in hand, leaving Luigi alone. Well, not fully alone, another guard was stationed outside the kitchen. Luigi didn’t focus on that though, instead he ran on the spot and squealed excitedly, what else could he make!? Oh, maybe he could make snickerdoodle cookies, Mario always…Mario. Was he betraying his brother by doing this for someone who wanted to destroy him? He was being stupid again, his brother was being hunted down by the king and all Luigi could focus on was making pretty cakes for that king, so fucking stupid!

Luigi sighed, getting out the ingredients anyway, he didn’t want to get on anyone’s bad side, but he also didn’t want to betray Mario. Snickerdoodle it is, after all, no one here would know…right?

.........

Crack!

Boom!

“Mama!”

Crack!

“She didn’t deserve to die that night! It should’ve been you! Why wasn’t it you?!”

Luigi awoke with a cold sweat, another nightmare. He still had nightmares of that night when his parents died, but now his uncle had made his way into them as well. He could still remember the kicks, the punches, but most of all, he could never forget what he said the day when he finally left him.

His heart began beating faster as another ripple of sweat rolled down his face. He started panting heavier and heavier. He deserved to feel like this, he should’ve died that night, he was supposed to die that night, he wished he died that night, why didn’t he die that night?!

He was so wrapped up in his mind that he didn’t notice that light flicking on and a hand gripping his as another rubbed his back. “Breathe,” an old yet wise voice told him. Luigi found himself squeezing the hand and he looked around the room, eyes finally landing on a koopa with a blue robe and glasses. That was the one that did the magic on him, when he first met Bowser.

“Breathe,” he told Luigi again, “In for one, two three for and out, two, three, four.”

Luigi tried to repeat the breathing as best he could, even when he fumbled a little bit the koopa was incredibly patient and soothed him while they continued the breathing. Luigi felt his breathing become steadier, the koopa gently placed a glass of water into his hands, still rubbing his back as Luigi gulped down the water. He placed the glass on the dresser next to his bed as he rubbed sleep away from his eyes.

“How did you know I was having a panic attack?” Luigi asked.

“My job is to make sure that everyone in the castle is taken care of,” the koopa explained, “Including prisoners.”

Luigi slowly nodded, “I’m sorry.”

“There’s no need to be sorry dear boy,” the koopa explained, “Perhaps its better if I introduced myself, I am Kamek, and you are Luigi, aren’t you?”

“Yes,” Luigi blinked.

Kamek hummed, “If you’re comfortable, would you mind telling me what triggered this panic attack?”

“Just a dumb nightmare,” Luigi mumbled.

“Dumb or not if it made you react this way then there is something worth discussing,” said Kamek, “And even if it isn’t worth it, I do believe a discussion may help relieve some of the tension that’s there.”

“W-well,” Luigi looked to his sheets, back to Kamek and back down again, “I was having a nightmare about the night my parents died and…how my uncle told me that I should’ve died instead of my mom.”

Kamek’s face fell slightly “Oh.”

“But it’s fine, I have nightmares all the time and this happens a lot, I’m used to it,” Luigi tried to plaster a fake smile, but it doesn’t seem to fool the old koopa.

“I don’t think this is something you should be used to dear boy,” Kamek said, “Whoever informed you that this is something you should normalise is frankly very wrong.”

“I appreciate the concern but really, I’m fine!” Luigi’s smile was beginning to falter, “I’m fine, it’s fine, I’m fine…I…”

Tears rolled down his cheeks as his fake grin finally faltered. He bit his lip, trying to stifle his sniffles, but when Kamek wrapped his arms around him - in a familiar familial like that Mario would do for him – a loud cry tore from his throat as Kamek gently rocked him, shushing him as sobs wracked the small man’s body.

As his cries calmed down to whimpers, Luigi could fell sleep creep up on him again. Kamek laid the man back down onto his pillows and used the sleeves oh his robe to wipe away the remaining tears. With a wave of his wand, he refilled the glass of water on Luigi’s bedside and quietly made his way of the room.

When he shut the door with the upmost gentleness, he was met face to face with Bowser. “What happened?” the king queried softly, Kamek swore he heard concern with laced with his tone.

“A nightmare, although unfortunately for him, it seemed to be the ones where he's forced to relive the most tragic memories,” Kamek explained, his heart sinking a little as he recalled how Luigi stared up at him, like a frightened child.

“I see,” Bowser pondered, “He did seem a bit more nervous that the other prisoners.”

“You would be a fool not to notice,” Kamek nodded, “I fear that this poor boy might’ve been hurt in his past. Really, really hurt.”

Bowser’s eyes suddenly hardened, the only other family member that he knew that the man had was his brother, if was the one who did this to him-

“I can tell where your mind is,” Kamek spoke up, “Don’t go rushing into assumptions, from what our spies have told us I have a feeling that his brother isn’t behind that boy’s fears. I understand that you want to win this war, but I heavily suggest that you don’t do it at that boy’s expense. From what I’ve seen, he’s gone through enough.”

“What! Of course not!” Bowser bellowed, “Of course I want to win but I’m not sick enough to ever do that do someone!”

“Good,” Kamek nodded and smiled at his surrogate son, “And I hope you stick by that.” With that, Kamek made his way down the hall, leaving Bowser alone.

A million thoughts were rushing through the king’s head. What happened to the green man that made him react to a nightmare like that? Who was the one who made him react like that? His brother better hope he wasn’t the one who did, otherwise taking him down would be more deadly than he intended. Wait a minute, why was he thinking about the plumber this way? Sure, he felt bad for him but surely not to this extent, right? However, as he imagined those eyes, how they nearly filled with tears after he complimented his cake, and the excited squeals he heard once he left the kitchen, no one ever really gave that to him before, didn’t they? He knew that from this moment on that no one else was going to take that happiness away from the plumber ever again. He would make sure of it.

.........

Luigi awoke the next morning, feeling completely drained from the night before. It was to be expected though, it happened every time when he had nightmares. He stretched and swung his feet over the side of the bed and tucked his feet into the slippers on the floor. He felt quite flattered that Kamek had went out of his way to make him pyjamas and footwear his size, even though it was mostly done with magic, he still felt flattered.

There was a knock at the door and the koopa guard that guided him to the shower rooms the other day entered the room. “King Bowser requests your presence for breakfast,” said the guard.

“Oh, did he say why?” Luigi asked, curious as to why the king wanted a prisoner to join him.

“He only informed me to take you to breakfast,” the koopa replied, “Please follow me.”

The koopa turned and walked out, Luigi following behind. The walk so far was silent, both not really knowing what to say since the king found out that the guard disobeyed him, he just hoped that Bowser wasn’t too hard on the koopa afterwards.

“S-so,” The koopa finally spoke up, “I took your advice the other day and…we both plan on sitting with each other during lunch later.”

“Really?!” a massive grin broke onto Luigi’s face, “That’s amazing!”

“I just, well, I wanted to thank you,” the koopa nervously rubbed the back of his neck, “If it wasn’t for you, I don’t think I would’ve been brave enough to ask them.”

Luigi’s steps faltered slightly before keeping back up with the guard again. He didn’t really think that his advice would help someone, all he wanted was to help someone with their own romantic plights but for someone to be happy with his help, it was a new feeling to experience on its own. “You’re welcome,” Luigi smiled, “If it’s alright, would you like to tell me your name?”

The koopa turned to him, looking up and down before finally answering, “Sam…my name is Sam.”

“It’s nice to mee you Sam,” Luigi replied, “I’m Luigi, oh wait, you already knew that.”

“Yeah, I did…we’ve arrived,” Sam stated, the two finally stopping at the dining hall. Sam opened the door for Luigi, where King Bowser and a smaller version of him were waiting, seated at the top of the table. “Enjoy your breakfast.”

“Thank you,” Luigi nodded, “Oh and one more thing!”

The koopa looked back one more time.

“Good luck with lunch later!” Luigi gave him a thumbs up.

Sam smiled a little bit, before shutting the door, leaving Luigi with the king and the small koopa that looked remarkably similar to the larger koopa. He was going to take a set at the opposite end of the table, away from the two, when the king suddenly said, “No, no, you’ll be eating beside me.”

Sit beside him? Why? Was this another interrogation? Did he want Luigi closer to him in order to scare him enough to get the information that he needed on Mario? Or maybe Kamek told him about the nightmare he had last night and wanted to punish him for it?! Great, his nightmares managed to upset the king and now he was going to get angry for him, why can’t he just deal with his nightmares like a normal person!

“Hey, Greenie, can you hear me?” Bowser’s voice broke him out of his internal rambling, “You’re gonna be sitting next to me and Junior.”

“J-Junior?” Luigi said aloud, was that the name of the smaller koopa?

“My son,” Bowser said proudly, ruffling the hair on top of the young boy’s head, “Hurry up, you’re gonna like what we have in store for you.”

Luigi nervously made his way up to the chair beside Bowser, across from Junior. Maybe it would be alright? Surely, he wouldn’t do anything brash in front of his child? As soon as he sat down the king pushed in his seat with ease, Luigi nearly blushed at the sudden closeness.

“I hope you’re hungry, cause I’ll bet that you’ve never had anything like this before!” Bowser boasted and a crowd of goombas wearing little chef hats poured into the room, while balancing trays on top of their heads before setting them down on the table.  Luigi’s mouth watered when they lifted the lids off, revealing many kinds of different breakfast foods. From pancakes to waffles, pouched to fried eggs and bacon to the many colours of fruits. There was more trays but the hunger that Luigi felt was starting to overpower him.

“Alright! I’m starving!” the young koopa cheered when the goombas left, immediately scooping up a portion of food from each tray and piling it onto his plate.

“Oh Junior, careful!” Bowser chuckled as his son started to make a mess with the butters and jams, he put on his meal, “I apologise, we were waiting for you to arrive before we could eat.”

Luigi paused for a moment and looked up towards the king, “Waiting for me? Why?”

“Well, Kamek told me about how you had trouble sleeping last night,” Bowser began to explain, sheepishly looking down at his plate, “And while I do want information about your brother, I don’t want you to feel like how you were that night. I’m not that much of a monster. So, I hoped that having breakfast with us could help you out a little bit.”

“You did this…for me?” Luigi’s heart fluttered a bit.

Bowser blushed, the little man was making those eyes again, those beautiful mesmerising eyes. He cleared his throat and smirked, leaning on his arm and he moved a bit closer to the plumber, “Yeah, why? Is it not enough for you little man?”

Luigi’s face had turned into the exact shade of a ripe tomato, covering in with his hands as he sank into his chair. “No, no its fantastic and I’m really glad that you had me in my mind while planning this!” he muffled into his hands.

“Your friend is strange Papa,” Junior stated, munching on some pancakes.

“Junior-”

“It’s fine,” Luigi uncovered his face, the heat slowly leaving his cheeks, “Yeah, I get that sometimes.”

“Oh…are you the red guy’s brother?” Junior asked, “Papa is planning on fighting him soon,”

Bowser froze. Maybe it wasn’t a good idea to have Junior here, but he didn’t want his son to feel excluded from eating with him, he hardly spent enough time with him due to the war with the mushroom kingdom.

Luigi sighed, not at the boy’s question, but rather at the acknowledgement that yes, he was here for one reason and one reason only, knowledge about his brother. “Yes, I am,” Luigi nodded.

Junior seemed to have realised the error in his words, looking down at his food with guilt, “Sorry, sometimes I’m not that great with my words.”

“That’s okay,” Luigi gave the boy a reassuring smile, “I’m not good with my words either. In fact, when I was a kid, I had a really bad stutter whenever I spoke.”

“You did?” The kid looked up at him.

“Yeah, I still get it sometimes when I’m nervous but not as much as I did back then,” Luigi admitted, “But you’re pretty brave about speaking your mind, that’s something that I still struggle to do.”

“You think?!” Junior marvelled at the man’s words, his little tail wagging behind him.

“Yeah!” Luigi grinned back.

Bowser smiled at the two, it was nice that Junior was able to make a companion during all of this. Sometimes Bowser felt guilty about having his son here, instead of keeping him back home with his friends, but he didn’t want to take any risks with Junior’s safety, he never knew who could be lurking. Yet when he saw how Luigi interacted with his child, how he spoke with his son instead of down to him, nothing else filled with chest with the pride that he felt at that moment at seeing how happy the moustached man treated his boy.

“So, you plan on eating soon Greenie?” Bowser joked, interrupting the conversation.

“Oh, right, sorry,” Luigi giggled, taking a waffle and covering it with some powdered sugar before taking a bite, humming at the taste, “This is really good, thank you.”

He was making the eyes again, but this time instead of brushing it away, Bowser returned the soft look with one of his own, “You’re welcome.”

.........

A few days after the breakfast with Bowser and Junior, Luigi had formed his own little routine at the castle. He would wake up, join the king and prince for breakfast (as well as lunch and dinner), do a bit of baking with Sam as his assigned guard, if there was some plumbing to be done then he would immediately take up the job, spend a little bit of time with Junior the two of them played before Bowser joined them, maybe have a bit of quiet time, a stroll with Bowser before getting ready for bed. Though he did have those expected nightmares, Kamek immediately rushed in to help him through it until he was able to fall back to sleep.

However, there was one day when that routine was rudely interrupted. Luigi was just taking some cookies out of the oven as Sam watched, curious as to how Luigi’s delicious treats were made, until another koopa guard burst through the door of the kitchen with a worried look on his face. “The boos have gone rogue!” he shouted, “Take the prisoner and keep him in this room until they’re detained.”

Sam nodded, pushing Luigi in front of him as they made their way to his bedroom. “Wait, what’s going on?” Luigi started to panic.

“Have you ever noticed those ghosts floating round the castle sometimes?” Sam inquired.

Luigi nodded; he remembered those creatures whenever he was being led throughout the castle. He also remembered how they all looked at him with disdain, like dirt on a pair of shoes.

“Well, they only go against us if their king commands it,” Sam told him.

Luigi raised an eyebrow, “But I thought Bowser was their king.”

“Bowser’s just borrowing them, their true leader is King Boo. I’m not sure why he’s doing this, but we need to keep this place on lockdown until we’re able to handle the situation,” Sam responded, finally reaching Luigi’s room and led the man inside, “Wait here until I get back.”

Sam shut the door behind him, leaving Luigi alone. His stomach churned while his hands kept making fists, in order to help calm the rise of anxiety building within him. He was going to lay and try the breathing exercises that Kamek taught him when he heard a scream from outside. Rushing to the window, he saw Junior running from a group of boos, taunting the poor child.

“Look at how pathetic he is!”

“He knows that he’s just an unlovable bastard!”

“It’s a good thing his parents are dead, who would want a miserable sack of shit like this!”

If Luigi was able to recognize anything, it was a bully. He knows the types of targets they go for, small, scared, weak. That was how he always found himself being chased by those who saw those traits in him, and now, those boos could see in the child that they were harassing. He couldn’t stand up for himself back then, but here, now, he could try for Junior.

He knew that the window was locked (he tried to open it before, but it wouldn’t budge) so taking a chair next to a vanity and threw it towards the window. Glass shattered into millions of little pieces, spraying across the floor. Luigi looked over the edge, trying to estimate how to get down. Thinking quickly, he pulled off the curtains and grabbed the bedsheets, tying the together into a makeshift rope and tied one end to the leg of his bed. He grabbed a wrench from his tool bag, sliding it into his overalls and carefully scaled down the hot wall, mindful of the lava pouring next to him.

Finally, he reached the ground, scanning the area until he found the young koopa trying to back away from the boos.

Luigi began running, running faster than he ever did in his life, faster than he did when he ran away from Wario and Waluigi. His only focus was helping that young boy and though he felt nothing but dread every time he saw those boos, Junior’s safety was his top priority.

As soon he reached them, he raised the wrench and slammed it against one of the ghosts, knocking it off balance and sending it flying backwards. Taking the opportunity while he had it, Luigi picked up Junior, placing him on his hip before running away again. He only got a few feet before the boos stopped him in his tracks. Luigi counted four as they circled around him and Junior, his protective grip tightened on the boy as he held his wrench out in front of him. “S-stay back!”

“Aww, look here fellas!” one of the boos jeered, “Little Bowser Junior’s found himself a little bodyguard!”

A second boo cackled, “He looks like someone picked a twig out of the woods!”

Luigi gulped, he would not let those words get to him, not when Junior needed him. “G-go a-away!” he yelled, “I-I’m n-not a-afraid o-of y-you!”

“W-w-what w-was t-that?” The third boo imitated the man’s stutter, “I c-couldn’t h-hear t-that!”

The fourth boo roared with laughter, the other three joining in. Luigi didn’t know if this was confidence or cowardice, but he lifted his wrench again and slammed it against the third boo’s face. “G-get o-out o-of m-my w-way!”

All four boos eyes darkened, creeping closer towards the man and koopa.” You shouldn’t have done that,” the first boo growled.

Luigi placed Junior down behind him, “R-run J-Junior, g-go f-find y-your d-ad!”

“What about you?” Junior wailed, his legs shaking.

Luigi heart panged for the poor boy, “D-don’t w-worry a-about-t m-me, j-just-t r-run!”

Junior glanced to the boos, then back to Luigi and nodded, turning on his heel and running as fast as he could towards the castle. The boos attempted to follow Junior again, but Luigi hit them with his wrench again. “L-leave h-him-m o-out o-of-f t-this!”

“Oh, is that how you wanna play then?” the second boo cooed, sarcasm dripping from its done, “Fine, you’re all ours,”

The next thing he knew, his wrench out slapped out of his hand. His raised his fist in an attempt to defend himself, but the boos knocked him to the ground before a could get a hit in, his head hitting a rock behind him. His head started pounding, and he could feel something warm dripping from his hair.

The boys started their attack, kicking him in the stomach, punching him repeatedly, screaming in his face. It kept going on and on to the point Luigi could feel it all blending together.

Punch

Kick

Crack!

“Mama!”

Punch

Kick

“Papa!”

Crack!

The rubble falling on top of him.

Punch

He couldn’t move.

Kick

Crack!

“Someone like you was born to take a beating.”

Punch

Kick

“Every second of your existence made my life a fucking hell!”

Crack!

“She didn’t deserve to die that night! It should’ve been you! Why wasn’t it you?!”

“GET AWAY FROM HIM!”

A roar pierced through the air, making the boos stop. Luigi couldn’t open his eyes, two swollen from the boos attacks and his ears were ringing a bit. What he did hear were the cries of the boos, loud thuds the something warm, like fire. The cries of the boos stopped, then the thuds were coming towards him, and a warm hand cupped the back of his head.

“Luigi, can you hear me?”

He was getting quite tired.

“Talk to me Luigi, please!”

Surely, he could close his eyes for a bit.

“Luigi, try to focus on me!”

Yeah, just for a bit.

“Luigi!”

.

.

.

Bowser nearly tore up the place when he saw that his son was missing, if anyone was going to touch one hair on his head, he was going to tear them apart. The relief he felt when he saw his son run to him was unlike anything he ever felt before, but panic rose again when he saw his son crying, and when asked all he could manage to say between tears was, “Luigi…boos...help!”

He kept him with Kamek, took a few guard with him and stormed out of the castle. His stomach sank when he saw Luigi, bleeding and helpless to the boos attack.

All he could see was red, he could barely remember what he did to the boos, only that whatever he did made them cower in front of the koopa king.

Once they were taken away, Bowser immediately ran towards the bleeding man, begging for him to hang on as he slipped in unconsciousness, before carrying him back into the castle.

Kamek and Junior gasped when they saw Luigi, Junior had burst into tears again while Kamek waved his wand and transported them into Bowser’s chambers. Kamek had recommended Bowser to take Junior, help him calm down while he focused on healing Luigi. While Bowser was hesitant with leaving him there, he knew Kamek was right, he wouldn’t be able to help Luigi enough if the room as too crowed and Junior desperately needed comfort.

He scooped up his son and walked out the room, sparing one last glance at the injured plumber before Kamek shut the door.

Bowser carried Junior to his room, cradling him and humming lullabies to him until the child had cried himself to sleep. He stayed with him for a few more minutes, then wrapped his blanket around him and tucked him into bed. He quietly closed the door behind him and made his way back to his own chambers.

Once he entered, Luigi was covered in bandages, from his head to his arms and across his chest, his eyes were swollen shut and bruised, his lip split and his chest was heaving heavily with laboured breath. “I did the most I could with my magic,” Kamek informed Bowser, “What he needs now is rest and for his own strength to help heal the rest of him.”

“Thank you Kamek,” Bowser whispered, not wanting to wake Luigi, “I can take it from here.”

“Are you sure?” Kamek asked, “I’m happy to stay and watch him, go get some rest my king.”

“No, its fine,” Bowser told him, “If his brother’s coming for him, it’s my responsibility to keep Greenie here in one piece.”

Kamek hummed, analysing the king for a moment, “Alright, just make sure to inform me if he’s getting worse.”

“Will do Kamek,” Bowser nodded.

When Kamek left the room, Bowser circled round the bed and gently climbed onto the other side, laying down gently next to Luigi and curled his tail around him. “I’m sorry,” he sighed, placing on of his fingers atop of the man’s small hand, “This wasn’t supposed to happen.”

Bowser took comfort in the fact that the man was still breathing, he listened to the soft breaths and let them lull him to sleep, hopefully in the morning the man’s health would progress a little bit.

.

.

.

Luigi stirred a little bit, his head pounding when he tried to open his eyes and his limbs were screaming in agony. His eyes scanned the room he as in, the small differences within it making him wonder if he wasn’t in his room anymore, it was confirmed when his eyes landed on the king laying next to him, snoring softly. He couldn’t move, not only due to his bruised body but at the fact that he was in the king’s room, sleeping in the king’s bed and was right next to him in close proximity.

He was about to open his mouth to speak when…

Crack!

No…no, no, no, no, no, please don’t let this happen right now!

Boom!

He turned his eyes towards the window and sure enough, there was a storm right outside.

Crack!

Please no, he can’t do this, not right now!

Boom!

He was in the rubble again, he wanted to scream for Mario, Mario, where’s Mario! He wanted to get out, please help him get out, he couldn’t breathe! It hurts, it hurts so much please help!

“Breathe Luigi,”

He felt his upper body being lifted and placed against some pillows in a seated position.

He just wanted to move, to see if his Mama and Papa were okay!

A large hand encased his own, “Breath in two, three, four and out two, three, four.”

Let him breathe! Let him breathe! Let him…

“In two, three, four and out, two, three, four.”

He did was the voice told him, his breathing, while shaking, was trying to copy the voice’s.

“You’re doing great, just keep going,” said the voice again, deep, commanding yet so gentle.

Luigi’s vision came back into focus, a noticed that a lamp was turned on, he was in the king’s room and was still next to Bowser as well. It was still storming outside, he hated storms, he hated thinking about-

Crack!

Luigi yelped, trembling from head to toe.

“It’s okay, it’s okay,” the voice murmured softly, stroking the man’s hands, “I’m here, it’s okay, I’m right here.”

He looked up…Bowser. Bowser helped him out of that panic attack, he was being so patient, especially with the one thing that Luigi hated most. Tears welled up in his eyes, how could someone be so kind, so comforting, so-

Boom!

Luigi jumped again, this time, Bowser had wrapped him up into a hug, a safe warm hug. The damns broke and Luigi let out the ugliest sobs he ever made in his life, tears no doubt were staining his face and was making a mess. But the king wasn’t put off by it, instead, he pulled Luigi in tighter.

“I’ve got you, don’t worry,” the king rocked him, “Give your pain to me, I can handle it.”

Luigi let out another cry at his words, weeping for what seemed to be hours, yet the king never loosened his protective hold, both of them falling asleep in each other’s arms.

.........

Two weeks had passed since then, Bowser had let Luigi heal in his chambers, even after Luigi said that he could go back into his room when his window was replaced (despite not really wanting to internally.) But the king had insisted, saying that he wanted to make up for what happened to him. And so, the king helped him with his meals if his arms were a bit too weak, he listened as Luigi gushed about baking and his other hobbies (he learnt that the plumber also liked to do some gardening in his spare time), he would let Junior see him, the child apologizing profusely and Luigi telling him that he didn’t need to before the two would start coloring together, Bowser watching with fondness, and with everything else the two of them would just talk about anything and fall asleep together cuddled up on the same bed.

Soon, Luigi found the strength to walk again, and Bowser had suggested that the two take a stroll together, to help Luigi get used to his legs again. They were just strolling past the gardens, Luigi letting his fingers graze the flowers and he mumbled about each type that he saw. All of a sudden, he stopped in his tracks, making Bowser worry a bit. Was he still sore? Did he need to rest for a minute?

“I wanted to thank you for all that you did for me,” Luigi nervously gripped his wrist with his left hand, “You’ve treated me with nothing but kindness for these past few days, more than anyone ever did in my entire life.”

“Well, you deserve it,” Bowser grinned, “You’re kind to my people, Junior and Kamek adore you and you’re all around an amazing person. I hope that you can see that yourself one day.”

Luigi blushed, taking a few more steps towards the king and looked up at the king.

He was looking at him with those eyes again, only this time there was something a bit deeper, something that made Bowser’s insides turn into goo. He placed Luigi into his arms, the man gasping a little as he stared at the king. Bowser’s eyes flickered to Luigi’s lips, his eyes, then his lips again. Luigi leaned in with Bowser meeting him halfway as their lips were gently pressed together. Bowser lifted his other hand to cup Luigi’s cheek as their kiss deepened a little bit more.

They pulled away, their hearts beating loudly as they shared a giggle together.

“No one’s ever kissed me like that before,” Luigi admitted.

“Their loss,” Bowser tucked a brown lock of hair out of Luigi’s face, “They have no idea what they’re missing.”

Luigi squirmed slightly, making Bowser chuckled as he leaned in for another kiss. Luigi was about to do the same when a moment of clarity hit him and pressed his fingers against Bowser’s lips. “Wait!”

Bowser froze, his eyes inspecting Luigi for any damage, “What happened, are you okay?!”

“I’m fine it’s just…” Luigi sighed, fidgeting with his fingers, “You still want to rule the world, don’t you?”

Realisation dawned on Bowser, letting out a sad grumble as he looked away from Luigi, “Yes.”

“And you’re still after my brother, aren’t you?” Luigi asked.

Bowser nodded numbly as he placed Luigi onto the ground.

“I wish we could have this,” Luigi reassured him, “I wish that we could hold each other, bake together, have fun with Junior, sleep in the same bed, share kisses…love each other. But if there’s one thing I can’t do, it’s betray Mario. Ever since I’ve been here, you and everyone else here have been helping me realise that I have more worth than I could ever possibly think that I would have. But although I’m starting to see it now, Mario was the first one who truly saw me for me, I just never fully believed him until now. So as much as I want this, I am never, ever going against my brother, I can’t do that…I’m sorry.”

Bowser let his head drop, of course it wasn’t going to be that simple, but it wasn’t Luigi’s fault, it would never be Luigi’s fault. He suddenly found himself wishing that he didn’t start this war, he wished that he didn’t desire the stars to complete his mission, he wished that he met Luigi within another context that didn’t force him to choose.

Bowser didn’t want to become someone else that was going to hurt Luigi…and he wouldn’t. “I’m going to have my guards drop you near the borders of the mushroom kingdom. Mario will be there.”

“W-what?” Luigi gasped, his head snapping up, the force of it making it ache a little bit.

“I shouldn’t have kept you hear longer than I did,” Bowser admitted, “I won’t make you choose between your brother or me, and I certainly won’t keep you here against your own will. I want you to love me, selflessly and unconditionally, without feeling guilty for it, and I know you can’t do it like this. Sam will take you to the border, tell one of the residents of the kingdom that you’re a brother of Mario, surely, they’ll take you to him.”

Luigi’s breath hitched…he was free, he was going to see Mario again, he…he was going to leave Bowser. He felt conflicted, he loved Bowser, but he also knew he was right, if they wanted to love each other, it couldn’t be like this. “And you won’t follow me?”

“I don’t plan on breaking your trust any time soon,” Bowser told him, taking Luigi’s hand into his own, “You deserve to put your faith into someone without them tearing it apart, I won’t do that to you, not now, not ever.” He kissed the top of Luigi’s hand and pressed his forehead against his.

“I will never forget you,” said Luigi.

“Neither will I,” Bowser agreed. They stayed like that for a few more second before pulling away.

They held hands as Bowser led him into the throne room, Sam waiting with some more guards. Bowser gave the koopa his instructions, the guard seeming dazzled for a moment before saluting his king. A bag with essentials for his journey was then given to Luigi from Kamek, as well as a drawing from Junior that featured the child, Luigi and Bowser, with messing handwriting at the bottom of the page saying.

‘My Family’

Luigi let a tear slip from his eye, wiping it away and he gave everyone a final goodbye, sharing one more glance with Bowser before making his way with Sam for his journey to the mushroom kingdom.

As soon as the heard the castle doors slam shut, Bowser turned his head away, squeezing his eyes shut as he tried to prevent tears from leaking out. He felt Kamek’s hand on his arm and looked down at him.

“For what it’s worth your majesty,” he started, “I have never been more proud of you in this moment.”

Bowser smiled and looked back to where Luigi once stood. Maybe one day, once this battle was over, he could see him again. He didn’t care if he would win or lose, as long as he got to see those eyes again, that mattered to him more than anything.

[starthiief]

IN HIS ARMS TONIGHT.

Donald Malarkey x (implied medic) non-binary Reader

🏷️: fluff, subtle (?) hurt/comfort

Warnings: mentions of canon-typical injuries (it's called 'wounded', peanut)

A/N: I never expected to fall this deep in the trenches for this show, but I here I am with my first attempt at fanfic in literal years!

The world was gray, like the steaming dinner that filled your tin cup, or the endless plumes of smoke that surrounded you. Gray like your dismal tomorrow, murky and uncertain.

Except for when it was white, like the freshly fallen snow that crunched beneath worn leather boots; or the sickly pallor of the faces that surrounded you, haunted by the white nothingness beyond the horizon.

Except for when it was red, like the rosy cheeks of the men, flushed from the adrenaline of narrowly surviving another attack. Red like the smoke bombs to signal the planes, hoping and praying supplies make it to them. Red like the spilled blood.

Oh, the blood, the blood…

“Doc.”

Fingers snapping together in front of your face to draw your attention up from the stained makeshift bandage currently fastened tightly around your thigh that you had been anxiously fiddling with while deep in thought.

“Malark, hey. What’s, um, what's good?” you asked, tucking your hands under the armpits of your jacket for what little warmth you could find, and to stop yourself from meddling with the bandage. As much as you probably should change it soon, supplies were running so low that everyone had to make do with things as they were. Your own medkit held German bandages and long strips of cloth from your old nursing uniform, now long abandoned for a uniform that matched the everyone else's winter gear.

“What’s good?” Don reiterated, his voice a soft interlude to the tumultuous thoughts you had been drowning in. “I’ll have to get back to you on the good… not to sound ungrateful to be here in an active warzone, of course.”

The sudden reappearance of his sarcasm was startling for a moment, it was a flicker of the man you’d met so very long ago. Back when you as bright-eyed and eager as the replacements who made you nervous now. The only thing you were confident had stayed the same since then was the incredible soft spot you maintained for one Donald Malarkey.

“Wow. You know, I never took you for being such a hard man to please. I don't see what you could possibly hate about our current circumstance,” you quipped.

And good heavens. That smile. Though it only ghosted his lips, it was nice to know he still knew how to do that. It’d been so long since you had last seen it.

“You may have a point. It’s a tropical paradise between all the snow, earth-rattling bombs, and slop for supper every night,” he continued sarcastically. Don then adjusted the strap of his rifle on his shoulder, taking a seat on the lip of your foxhole, letting his crusty old boots dangle beside you.

“Don’t forget the amazing weather!”

“Oh, it’s wonderful. I was thinking about writing home about it.”

“Yeah, we’re practically living the high life here!” You laughed and scooted over in the foxhole to make room for him. If you were going to keep chatting, you figured you might as well make sure he was tucked in somewhere safe before the next barrage of bombs came crashing down.

“Fancy hotels, indoor plumbing, and a nice hot meal with potatoes and steak? Overrated, it’s been done to death,” he scoffed.

“But this? Now this is something only the privileged few will ever experience," you tacked on, earning an eyeroll that was made fond by his begrudging smile.

Hopping into the hole, Donald Malarkey made himself right at home in your makeshift nest of dirt, empty bullet shells, and misery. You could smell cigarettes and sweat wafting off of him as you peeled your blanket back just long enough to let him under it, trying to trap as much of your generated heat beneath it to stave away the chilly air.

“I don’t know about you, but there’s nowhere else I’d rather be than right here with my favorite person in the whole wide world.” His arm carefully wrapped around your shoulders, guiding you closer against him — effectively igniting that familiar old flame in your stomach. It was such a startlingly juvenile and innocent sensation, you truly didn’t know you could still feel like that after all the aging you had done in the last couple of weeks spent in this forsaken forest.

Bashful, you nuzzled against the chest of his jacket, hiding your face from his immediate view while holding desperately onto this rare moment of normalcy.

If you closed your eyes, you probably could’ve imagined the two of you were just a regular couple, canoodling in the backseat of his car at some drive-in movie back home. Instead, you watched the way his hand reached down to delicately run across the stained bandage on your thigh.

“How is it?”

“Well, y’all don’t get to send me to the glue factory just yet.”

A puff of air snorted from Malarkey’s nose, visible in the freezing air. “Doc, there’s no way we would ever send you to a glue factory. The big farm upstate, maybe. But never the glue factory."

“Wow, that really means a lot!"

“Nothin’ but the best for my honey.”

“Oh, my~!” you pressed a hand delicately against your cheek and feigned a dramatic swoon like the big silver screen starlets.

Expecting the witty back and forth to continue, it was a surprise when all that greeted you was nothing.

Looking over at him, you were ready to scold him for daring to fall asleep mid-conversation. Instead, those lovely eyes of his were focused intently on you, a genuine smile softening his features once again.

“I’ve missed this,” his voice as smooth as the cashmere gloves he had helped you slip on the very first time you had met in that little old bar a long, long time ago. The two of you had been different then, still so very innocent, full of folly, and raring to be deployed for war.

“I missed this too.” You speak quietly, afraid you might startle yourself awake and discover this had all been one big reverie if you were too loud.

“I think this is the most privacy we’ve had in a long, long time.”

“I love ‘em to death, but it’s almost ridiculous how often the fellas just happen to interrupt our dates. Sometimes I just want to eat chocolate squares and take inventory of my medkit with my sweetie, y’know?” That earned a chuckle from the both of you.

“That’s paratroopers for you. If they’re anything, they’re audacious as hell. Have to be if they're willing to get between you and your chocolate." Another beat of silence filled the foxhole, resting upon your laps until Donald cleared his throat and he said: “I think I love you.”

Steeping your soul in the words you never knew you needed so dearly, a wobbly smile wrested upon your lips. In a little while, you could be scared and fearful of what it meant to finally say the quiet part of your relationship out loud. For now, it was simply a marvel just how sweet a balm it was upon all the little scratches and bruises this world had left upon you.

“I know I love you,” you said.

“I wouldn’t want to count bandages with anyone else.” Then he leaned over and kissed your cheek once, twice, and then once more just for good measure. And just like that, he had your face burning warm and your heart doing delighted cartwheels in your chest as you pressed a daring kiss to his lips.

It was tempting to throw caution to the wind and indulge in the taste of cigarette smoke and a budding hope for more time. Oh, how easy it would be to devour him, to unfasten his jacket and sink your teeth into the junction of his neck. You could stake your claim and smile against his skin when you made him whimper your name, melting him into a lovely mess just for you. In your mind’s eye, you knew exactly how you’d lose yourself in the one man who had come to mean so much to you.

SNAP!

A stray shot in the far distance sobered you, making your body go rigid as your ears strained to listen for any footsteps or heavy rasps of breathing above. There was nothing, only the distant chatter of some men about an apprehended prisoner and not about the fraternization happening in your foxhole.

The risks still weren’t worth trading all of this away. All of him. How would you find any peace of mind if you were transferred? At least as things were now, you could keep him close. There was an undeniable comfort in being able to reach out and know Donald was still with you and whole. All the worries would plague you, forming a new ghost to haunt you at your lowest moments…

Donald suddenly squeezed your leg, once against pulling you from your worried fretting.

He was good at that, even if you weren’t sure he was entirely aware of it. Between his good instincts and fast thinking, it was hard to tell which part was acting sometimes. But either was reassuring, and there was hardly a better cure than his steadying presence wrapping you up, treating you with a kindness the rest of the world did not.

It was only after a moment of sitting side by side with your eyes closed, taking slow and steadying breaths, did you realize that the gentle finger looping fondly against your leg had actually been scribbling something against that strip of old bandage. It was a hidden message meant only for him, and now you.

With a little concentration, you realized that Donald had been lovingly etching your names into your skin over and over again, punctuated only by ‘I love you’.

And if you were certain of anything, it was the fact that Bastogne was its own special circle of Hell. The sky was almost permanently stained with smoke, obscuring any sense of time as the hours all melted together to create an endless day intercepted by a sudden night. Gone were the dusky pinks of the early morning sun and orange sherbet evenings.

Hell with a capital 'H'.

But that night, nestled close against Donald in that little foxhole, your world was gray like the wool blanket that kept you snug together, white like the melting snow on his shoes, and red like his beard that scratched against the temple of your forehead as he hummed some old drinking song.

And for just one moment, this fractured world you navigated was perfect enough.

[yourmikecounsilplumbing]

Pipe Repair vs. Whole-Home Repiping: Which Do I Need?

Pipe Repair vs. Whole-Home Repiping: Which Do I Need?

Are your home’s pipes not what they used to be? Deciding between pipe repair and whole-home repiping is a common conundrum homeowners face. When presented with this choice, it’s helpful to understand the circumstances pointing to each one so you can select the most suitable solution for your unique plumbing needs. When Pipe Repair is the Right Choice Not every plumbing issue requires a complete pipe replacement. In some cases, pipe repair will suffice. Here’s when pipe repair could be the right call: - Minor leaks: A small leak indicates an isolated problem. In this scenario, your plumber can probably repair or replace the damaged section without touching the rest of your plumbing system. - Localized damage: If plumbing damage is confined to a particular area, like a single pipe affected by wear and tear or accidental impact, a targeted repair should restore your system to full functionality. - Recently installed pipes: The lifespan of pipes ranges from 20 to 100 years, depending on the material and maintenance it receives. If your pipes are on the younger end of the spectrum, a full repiping may not be necessary. Chances are a repair will fix the issue, and your pipes will continue to serve you well for many years. When Whole-Home Repiping Becomes Necessary In certain situations, a straightforward pipe repair might not cut it. Repiping the house may be best if significant or systemic issues are present. Here are the signs to look for: - Old plumbing: If your home is over 50 years old and the plumbing system has never been updated, it’s likely time for whole-home repiping. Aging pipes are prone to leaks, corrosion, and clogs that can only be resolved through a complete replacement. - Frequent leaks: If leaks constantly spring up around the house, this suggests widespread damage. Frequent leaks can lead to costly water damage, so consider repiping before this happens. - Low water pressure: Consistently low water pressure may indicate widespread pipe deterioration or blockages. In this case, repiping should restore your home’s water pressure. - Discolored water: Rust-colored or unusual-smelling tap water could mean your pipes are corroding. This issue typically calls for a complete repiping, as ignoring the problem could lead to water quality issues and health risks. - Outdated pipe material: Galvanized iron was commonly used pre-1970. Since then, copper and corrosion-resistant PEX and CPVC have replaced this outdated material. Even some homes built in the early 1990s contain polybutylene pipes, which calls for repiping to avoid leaks and clogs. Choose Mike Counsil Plumbing for All Your Plumbing Needs Whether you decide to repair or replace your pipes, look no further than Mike Counsil Plumbing. Our company is committed to finding cost-effective solutions and providing exceptional customer service. As a family-owned business established in 1994, we believe in treating our customers and employees like family, ensuring a pleasant and professional experience for everyone. To request an estimate for pipe repair or whole-home repiping in San Jose, Mountain View, or the surrounding South Bay area, please contact us at 408-916-1226. Read the full article

[custombuildershouston]

Understand Permits and Regulations: An Essential Guide for Contractors in Commercial Remodeling in Houston

According to US statistics, new business applications are surging post-pandemic. The widespread layoffs during the pandemic are fueling this surge in startups. (Source: https://camoinassociates.com/resources/new-business-applications-boomed-during-the-pandemic/)

If you're thinking about launching a business in Houston, you might first consider buying commercial property. However, due to the current circumstances, this might not be practical. An alternative option is purchasing an old building and renovating it. Before starting a commercial remodeling project in Houston, it's crucial to grasp the permits and regulations involved. Understanding building codes, zoning laws, and permit requirements can be daunting, but with the appropriate knowledge and assistance, you can ensure that your remodeling project progresses smoothly and meets all regulatory standards.

Understanding Building Codes

When planning a commercial remodeling project in Houston, it's essential to acquaint yourself with the local building codes. These codes are a collection of rules that explain the design, construction, and use of buildings. They guarantee that structures are secure, stable, and adhere to applicable health and safety guidelines. In Houston, the Department of Public Works and Engineering is responsible for establishing and enforcing these building codes. (https://www.houstonpublicworks.org/#:~:text=The%20Department's%20responsibilities%20include%20operation,of%20public%20and%20private%20construction.)

Navigating Zoning Laws

In addition to building codes, you'll also need to consider zoning laws when planning your commercial remodel. Zoning laws tell how land and buildings can be used within a specific area or zone. These laws help regulate the types of businesses that can operate in certain locations and ensure that development is consistent with the surrounding area. Before beginning your remodeling project, it's essential to check the zoning regulations for your property to ensure that your proposed changes comply with local zoning ordinances.

Obtaining Permits

Once you've familiarized yourself with the relevant building codes and zoning laws, the next step is to obtain the necessary permits for your remodeling project. Permits are official approvals granted by the city or local jurisdiction that allow you to proceed with your construction or renovation work. The types of permits you'll need will depend on the scope and scale of your project, but common permits for commercial remodeling projects in Houston may include building permits, electrical permits, plumbing permits, and mechanical permits.

Working with Commercial Remodelers and Contractors

Navigating the permitting process and ensuring compliance with regulations can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of commercial construction. That's why many business owners choose to work with commercial remodelers or contractors who specialize in commercial remodeling projects. These professionals have the expertise and experience to navigate the permitting process efficiently and ensure that your project meets all necessary regulations and standards.

Choose the Professionals for Compliance

Understanding permits and regulations is essential for anyone undertaking a commercial remodeling project in Houston. By familiarizing yourself with building codes, zoning laws, and permit requirements, you can ensure that your project proceeds smoothly and complies with all relevant regulations.

Whether you're renovating an office space, retail store, or restaurant, taking the time to understand and comply with permits and regulations will help you avoid costly delays and setbacks and ensure the success of your remodeling project. But It's not advisable to do this task on your own because missing certain aspects could result in hefty fines. Instead, consider hiring the best commercial remodeling contractor in the industry. For your commercial remodeling project, consider Marwood Construction. With years of experience and expertise, they are well-versed in the permits and regulations governing construction and remodeling projects.

[drainranger1]

Drain Unblockers West Auckland: Clearing Your Path to Clean Pipes

In the verdant drain unblockers west Auckland, where nature thrives and communities flourish, there lies a silent but essential component of modern living: the drainage system. Beneath the surface, amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, lies a network of pipes and channels that ensure the smooth flow of waste and water. Yet, when these pathways become obstructed, the tranquility of suburban life can quickly turn into a nightmare of backed-up drains and foul odors.

Enter the unsung heroes of plumbing – the drain unblockers of West Auckland. These individuals and companies dedicate their expertise to restoring the flow, unclogging the conduits, and preserving the comfort and hygiene of homes and businesses across the region.

The Challenge of Blocked Drains

Blocked drains are a common nuisance that can afflict any household or commercial property. Whether it's due to the accumulation of debris, the intrusion of tree roots, or the gradual buildup of grease and grime, blocked drains pose a significant inconvenience and potential health hazard.

In West Auckland, where lush vegetation and frequent rainfall are part of the natural environment, the risk of drain blockages is particularly pronounced. Leaves, twigs, and sediment can find their way into the drainage system, exacerbating the likelihood of obstruction. Additionally, the region's aging infrastructure may contribute to the problem, as older pipes are more susceptible to corrosion and collapse.

The Role of Drain Unblockers

Amidst these challenges, drain unblockers in West Auckland emerge as the frontline defenders against drainage woes. Armed with specialized tools, techniques, and a wealth of experience, these professionals undertake the task of restoring flow and functionality to clogged drains.

The process begins with a thorough assessment of the problem. Using advanced diagnostic equipment such as CCTV cameras, drain unblockers can peer into the depths of the drainage system, pinpointing the location and nature of the blockage with precision. This allows them to formulate an effective strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of each case.

Techniques and Tools

One of the primary methods employed by drain unblockers is high-pressure water jetting. This technique involves blasting a powerful stream of water into the blocked pipe, dislodging obstructions and flushing away accumulated debris. High-pressure water jetting is highly effective in removing even stubborn blockages, yet gentle enough to prevent damage to the pipe itself.

For more stubborn blockages or those caused by tree roots infiltrating the pipes, mechanical methods such as drain snakes or augers may be employed. These devices enable drain unblockers to physically break apart or extract the offending material, restoring the flow of water and preventing future blockages.

In cases where the blockage has caused significant damage to the pipe, such as cracks or fractures, drain unblockers may recommend repair or replacement of the affected section. With trenchless technologies such as pipe relining, these repairs can be carried out with minimal disruption to the surrounding area, ensuring a swift and efficient resolution to the problem.

Preventive Maintenance

Beyond simply addressing existing blockages, drain unblockers in West Auckland also emphasize the importance of preventive maintenance. Regular inspection and cleaning of drains can help identify potential issues before they escalate into full-blown blockages, saving homeowners and businesses both time and money in the long run.

Many drain unblocking services offer scheduled maintenance plans, wherein trained technicians visit properties at predetermined intervals to inspect and clean the drainage system proactively. By removing debris, grease, and other potential blockage sources on a regular basis, these preventive measures help keep drains flowing smoothly and reduce the likelihood of unexpected emergencies.

The Importance of Professionalism

In a field where DIY solutions abound, the expertise and professionalism of drain unblockers cannot be overstated. Attempting to tackle a stubborn blockage without the proper knowledge or equipment can not only prove ineffective but may also exacerbate the problem and cause further damage to the drainage system.

Professional drain unblockers undergo rigorous training and certification to ensure they are equipped to handle a wide range of drainage issues safely and effectively. They adhere to industry best practices and safety standards, employing environmentally friendly techniques and disposal methods to minimize their impact on the surrounding ecosystem.

Moreover, reputable drain unblocking companies in West Auckland prioritize customer satisfaction, offering prompt and reliable service backed by transparent pricing and warranties. From the moment a call is placed to the final resolution of the issue, customers can expect clear communication and courteous assistance every step of the way.

Conclusion

In the sprawling landscapes of West Auckland, where communities thrive amidst the beauty of nature, the unseen arteries of the drainage system play a crucial yet often overlooked role in maintaining the comfort and functionality of daily life. When blockages occur and the flow is impeded, it is the drain unblockers of West Auckland who stand ready to restore order and ensure that the pathways remain clear.

With their expertise, dedication, and commitment to excellence, these professionals embody the spirit of service that defines the region's thriving communities. From clearing stubborn blockages to implementing preventive maintenance measures, they are the guardians of clean pipes and clear waters, ensuring that life in West Auckland flows smoothly now and for generations to come.

[inspectorbots1]

Automating Home Maintenance Using Robots for Crawl Space Inspection

Robots for crawl space examination are transforming home upkeep. Tight places are navigated by these small and nimble robots to evaluate possible risks, moisture content, and structural problems. They eliminate the need for humans to enter restricted spaces because they are outfitted with cameras and sensors that offer extensive information.

These robots improve property maintenance by minimising risks connected with crawl space inspections robots and guaranteeing early problem discovery through their efficiency and precision.

One innovative technique that is revolutionising numerous sectors is Robotic Platform. 

A flexible tool for visual examination and evaluation of difficult-to-reach or inaccessible locations is an inspection camera. With the use of these cameras, experts in a variety of fields, such as construction, plumbing, and auto repair, may visually analyse areas such as pipelines, ducts, and machinery. They are comprised of a small camera placed on a rigid pole or flexible tube. 

Self-governing devices that can carry out activities or navigate their surroundings without direct human assistance are known as autonomous robots. These autonomous robots make judgements, adjust to changing circumstances, and perform tasks by combining sensors, algorithms, and artificial intelligence. Autonomous robots are frequently used in industry, transportation, agriculture, exploration, and surveillance. 

Specialised robots created for use in tactical scenarios—usually in military and law enforcement settings—are known as tactical robots. These robots have sophisticated features that allow them to improve situation awareness, conduct reconnaissance, and do particular jobs in potentially dangerous or inaccessible settings for people.  

A building inspection service ensures safe and sound construction. Expert inspectors assess properties for potential issues, providing sellers, purchasers, and property owners with informative data that aids in their decision-making. A property's structural integrity must be assessed and guaranteed through building safety inspections. Skilled inspectors look over different parts to find possible risks, making sure rules are followed and encouraging occupant safety. 

A Pan Tilt Minibot is a small robotic device that can rotate both vertically and horizontally. It is equipped with pan and tilt capabilities. With this improved design, the robot is more adaptable and can move and change its position for a range of uses, including monitoring, surveillance, and inspection in small areas.

A robotic system that combines tracked mobility with pan-and-tilt mechanism capabilities is called a Pipeline Inspection Camera. The robot's capacity to move on tracks and its pan-and-tilt functionality allow it to navigate a variety of terrains with stability and adaptability. This design also allows for flexible orientation modifications.  

There can be some confusion because "Spider Mite Robot" is not a term that is commonly used. But if you're talking about a robot made to imitate the features or motions of a spider mite—a little arthropod that's well-known for moving quickly—that would probably be a specialised robot used in agriculture or research.

A minibot, sometimes known as a mini-robot, is a miniature robot that is intended to do a variety of jobs. These robots are useful for jobs in small areas or situations where a larger robot might not be practicable since they are frequently small, nimble, and adaptable. The Minibot have applications in several domains, such as teaching, entertainment, inspection, and monitoring.

[timetofixdubai]

DIY vs. Professional: Navigating Home Repairs in Dubai

Dubai, a city known for its towering skyscrapers and modern architecture, often inspires residents to tackle home repairs themselves. While the DIY spirit is admirable, there are instances when calling a professional handyman becomes not just a preference but a necessity. Here, we'll explore the factors to consider when deciding between a do-it-yourself approach and seeking the expertise of a professional handyman in Dubai.

Assess the Complexity of the Task:

The first factor to consider is the complexity of the task at hand. DIY projects are suitable for simple tasks like minor paint touch-ups, assembling furniture, or fixing a leaky faucet. However, if the project involves intricate electrical work, plumbing repairs, or structural modifications, it's wise to enlist the help of a professional handyman in Dubai who has the expertise to handle complex tasks safely and efficiently.

2. Safety First:

Safety is paramount when it comes to home repairs. If a task involves working at heights, handling electrical components, or dealing with potentially hazardous materials, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Professional handymen in Dubai are trained to adhere to safety protocols, ensuring that repairs are conducted without risking injury to yourself or others in the household.

3. Time and Convenience:

Consider your own schedule and availability when deciding between a DIY project and hiring a handyman. Some repairs may require a significant time investment, and if your schedule is already tight, calling in a professional can save you time and stress. Professionals have the experience to complete tasks efficiently, allowing you to focus on other priorities.

4. Cost Considerations:

While the DIY approach might seem cost-effective initially, it's essential to weigh the potential costs of mistakes or incomplete repairs. Improperly executed repairs may lead to more extensive damage, requiring professional intervention in the long run. Before opting for a DIY solution, assess the potential costs and benefits, and compare them to the upfront cost of hiring a handyman.

5. Access to Tools and Materials:

Some home repair tasks require specialized tools and materials that may not be readily available to the average homeowner. A professional handyman comes equipped with the necessary tools, ensuring that the job is done with precision and using the right materials. This can be particularly crucial for tasks involving plumbing, electrical work, or carpentry.

6. Local Regulations and Permits:

Certain home improvement projects in Dubai may require adherence to local regulations and permits. Professional handymen are well-versed in these requirements and can ensure that repairs are carried out in compliance with the law. Attempting certain projects without the necessary approvals may result in legal complications.

7. Warranty and Guarantees:

Professional handyman services often come with warranties or guarantees on their work. This provides peace of mind, knowing that if an issue arises after the repair, the handyman will address it without additional cost. DIY projects lack this assurance, and any mistakes or oversights become the responsibility of the homeowner.

Conclusion:

In the dynamic and bustling city of Dubai, the decision between DIY and professional handyman services depends on the nature of the repair, your skill level, and the specific circumstances surrounding the task. While DIY projects can be fulfilling and cost-effective for minor tasks, it's essential to recognize when a professional touch is necessary. By assessing the complexity of the repair, prioritizing safety, and considering factors like time, cost, and access to tools, you can make informed decisions that ensure your home remains a well-maintained and safe haven in the heart of Dubai.

[thebestpoolheating]

Comparing Hot Water Heat Pumps to Solar Water Heaters

When it comes to heating your water efficiently and sustainably, two popular options often come to mind: hot water heat pump and solar water heaters. Both technologies have their merits and are designed to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills while minimizing your environmental footprint. In this article, we'll compare these two systems to help you make an informed choice for your home.

Understanding Hot Water Heat Pumps

Hot water heat pumps, also known as heat pump water heaters, operate on a simple principle: they use electricity to transfer heat from the surrounding air to the water. This process makes them highly energy-efficient because they don't generate heat directly, unlike conventional electric resistance heaters. Instead, they move existing heat, making them a more sustainable choice.

Understanding Solar Water Heaters

Solar water heaters, as the name suggests, utilize energy from the sun to heat water. These systems consist of solar collectors, which absorb sunlight and convert it into heat, and a storage tank to hold the heated water. Solar water heaters can be further categorized into two types: active (with pumps and controls) and passive (without pumps).

Comparing Efficiency

Hot Water Heat Pumps:

Pros:

High Efficiency: Hot water heat pumps are incredibly efficient, often boasting a coefficient of performance (COP) greater than 2. This means they can produce more energy (heat) than they consume in electricity.

Consistent Performance: They work well even in cloudy or colder conditions, as they extract heat from the surrounding air.

Year-Round Usability: Hot water heat pumps can provide hot water throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions.

Cons:

Electricity Dependency: They rely on electricity to operate, which may not be ideal if you're trying to reduce your carbon footprint.

Solar Water Heaters:

Pros:

Renewable Energy: Solar water heaters use clean, renewable solar energy, making them one of the greenest options available.

Long-Term Savings: Once installed, the sun's energy is free, so your utility bills will be significantly reduced or even eliminated.

Environmentally Friendly: Solar water heaters produce no greenhouse gas emissions during operation.

Cons:

Weather Dependent: Their performance is contingent on weather conditions, which means they may not provide consistent hot water during cloudy or rainy periods or at night.

Higher Initial Cost: Solar water heater systems often have a higher upfront cost, including installation.

Installation and Maintenance

Hot Water Heat Pumps:

Hot water heat pumps can be easier to install and maintain compared to solar water heaters. They typically require less space and don't necessitate complex plumbing setups. Routine maintenance involves checking the system for dust or debris buildup and ensuring proper airflow.

Solar Water Heaters:

Solar water heaters require precise installation to capture maximum sunlight. This often involves mounting solar collectors on your roof, which can be more labor-intensive and complex. Maintenance includes occasional cleaning of the solar panels and checking for leaks or malfunctioning pumps.

Cost Considerations

Hot Water Heat Pumps:

Hot water heat pumps are generally more affordable upfront, making them an attractive option if you have budget constraints. They offer a quicker return on investment due to lower installation costs.

Solar Water Heaters:

Solar water heaters, while offering long-term savings, tend to have a higher initial cost. However, many governments and utilities offer incentives and rebates to offset this cost, making them more accessible.

Conclusion

Both hot water heat pumps and solar water heaters offer compelling advantages when it comes to energy efficiency and reducing your environmental impact. Your choice depends on your specific circumstances and priorities.

Choose a Hot Water Heat Pump If:

You seek a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution.

Consistent hot water supply year-round is a priority.

You want a more straightforward installation and maintenance process.

Choose a Solar Water Heater If:

You're committed to using renewable energy sources.

Long-term savings and reducing your carbon footprint are paramount.

You're willing to make a higher upfront investment and take advantage of available incentives.

Ultimately, both technologies can significantly reduce your reliance on conventional, energy-intensive water heating methods and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. Assess your goals, budget, and local climate to determine which system aligns best with your needs and values.

[restomain]

Delray Beach Water Damage Restoration: Saving Your Property from Unforeseen Havoc

Nestled along the stunning coastline of Florida, Delray Beach is a paradise known for its pristine beaches, vibrant community, and laid-back atmosphere. However, even in this idyllic setting, homes in Delray Beach are susceptible to the unexpected havoc that water damage can bring. Whether it's due to storms, leaks, or plumbing mishaps, water damage can strike without warning, causing extensive harm to your property. The process of water damage restoration plays a pivotal role in saving your Delray Beach property from the aftermath of water-related disasters. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the significance of water damage restoration in Delray Beach and how it helps salvage and restore your cherished property.

Understanding Water Damage Restoration

Water damage restoration is a systematic approach to mitigating and repairing damage caused by water intrusion. It involves assessing the extent of the damage, extracting water, thoroughly drying out affected areas, and restoring the property to its pre-damage condition. In Delray Beach, where tropical storms and heavy rainfall are part of the reality, understanding water damage restoration is crucial for property owners.

Preserving Delray Beach's Natural Beauty

Delray Beach's natural beauty is one of its most prized features, with homes that harmonize with the surroundings. When water damage strikes, it threatens not only the structure of homes but also their aesthetic appeal. Water damage restoration plays a vital role in preserving the distinctive charm of Delray Beach properties by addressing both functional and visual aspects.

The Urgency of Swift Action

Acting swiftly is imperative when dealing with water damage. The longer water remains stagnant, the more it can seep into walls, floors, and belongings, causing irreparable harm. Delray Beach's humid climate can exacerbate these issues, making prompt action essential to prevent mold growth and structural deterioration.

Customized Restoration Strategies

Each water damage situation is unique, necessitating a tailored restoration strategy. Professional restoration companies in Delray Beach assess the specific circumstances of your property and create a plan that caters to its unique needs. This approach ensures that all aspects of your property, from structural components to personal belongings, are effectively restored.

The Role of Professional Expertise

While minor water damage can sometimes be addressed by homeowners, significant damage requires professional intervention. Restoration companies in Delray Beach possess the expertise, experience, and specialized equipment to effectively extract water, dry out affected areas, and restore your property to its original state.

Safeguarding Health and Well-being

Water damage can have health implications, particularly when mold growth occurs. Mold can trigger allergies and respiratory issues, posing a threat to your family's well-being. Water damage restoration not only restores your property but also ensures a safe and healthy living environment.

Comprehensive Restoration Efforts

Water damage isn't confined to visible areas; it can penetrate hidden spaces within walls and ceilings. Comprehensive restoration efforts ensure that all affected areas are thoroughly dried, preventing secondary damage and the growth of mold that can lead to long-term issues.

Guiding the Insurance Process

Navigating insurance claims can be daunting after experiencing water damage. Restoration companies in Delray Beach often have experience working with insurance providers, guiding you through the claims process and helping you secure the coverage you deserve.

Restoring Peace and Comfort

A home is a sanctuary, a place of comfort and refuge. Water damage can disrupt this sanctuary, but the restoration process aims to rebuild it. By restoring your property to its original condition, water damage restoration helps you regain a sense of security, peace, and normalcy.

Preventive Measures for Future Protection

Alongside restoration, professionals often provide recommendations to prevent future water damage. From addressing drainage issues to enhancing roofing and plumbing systems, these preventive measures play a pivotal role in safeguarding your Delray Beach property against future water-related challenges.

In Conclusion

Delray Beach's allure lies not only in its beauty but also in the homes that grace its landscape. Water damage may disrupt this beauty, but it can be effectively managed with the right approach. Water damage restoration in Delray Beach is a testament to the resilience of the Delray Beach community, preserving their properties and ensuring that their homes remain havens of comfort and tranquility.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is water damage restoration? Water damage restoration involves mitigating and repairing damage caused by water intrusion, such as flooding, leaks, or burst pipes.

Why is swift action important in water damage restoration? Taking immediate action can prevent further damage and mitigate health risks associated with mold growth.

Why should I hire professionals for water damage restoration in Delray Beach? Professional restoration companies possess the expertise and equipment to effectively restore your property and prevent health hazards.

What does comprehensive restoration entail? Comprehensive restoration addresses both visible and hidden areas, ensuring thorough drying and preventing secondary damage.

How does water damage restoration contribute to peace of mind? Restoring your property helps you regain a sense of security, peace, and comfort in your home.

[dcviated]

@starryskied sent: She frowned slightly, cerulean oculars flitting back and forth. A brief survey of her surroundings, before the Pythia sets her work tools down. Since when did Rhodes Island have a field of vegetables? Oh. Never mind. Eunectes spent far too much time in the engineering department to explore the entirety of the Landship, and her many secrets. "So, what is the problem again? Someone mentioned the sprinkler system needing adjustment. Is that true? " The engineer queries, albeit absentmindedly. Her gaze flits towards the Draco. Hmm. "Aren't you the one with the cursed garden?" ( @Citrine )

Oh, there's someone here. And from the looks of it, not someone here to harass him. But, that's just wishful thinking. Best not speak too soon. Anyway! The Pythia is given a wave on her arrival and a warm greeting to boot.

"Yes. I've been using the hose and cans in the meantime today but... it'd be great to have things fixed again. Thanks for coming, by the way. I think it has to do with the plumbing over in this wall but it's.. not my forte."

A sigh escapes the Draco, a thump of his indigo tail against the ground that coincides with a slacking of toned shoulders. It'd been a long week. At least there weren't any Aegir's using seawater this time around. Then, Eunectes has to make that comment.

"...does it look cursed to you?" The question is packed with bitterness and other frustrated emotions over a history that can't be recounted in a single sentence. This isn't directed towards the Pythia, mind, but to the cyclical circumstances that plague the Draco from sunup to sundown. He's come to consider a peaceful day as a suspicious one around the gardens.

"Maybe I need to get an exorcist around here. Or around me? I haven't confirmed whether or not it's the field at fault or if it has something to do with me... but... the rest of my life seems alright, at least? So I don't know. Hopefully the pipes are safe from it and you can get the sprinklers working."

[beltonplumbingandgas]

Why should you choose a professional for toilet installation?

If your toilet is wobbling, cracked or clogged then definitely you need an expert to fix these issues and make toilet working properly or get it replaced. But do these issues are really big issues that you immediately need professional toilet installation services. However, in this regard, this post will help you to demonstrate the situations when and why you need services from expert plumbers Belton MO rather than DYI.

Leaks and clogging

There is a common problem of leaking with not only on the toilet but with all water related appliances such as water heater, tank, faucets etc. Even though sometimes you can get succeed in replacing or repairing the faucet or water pool by applying some water-resistant but whenever the leaking or clogging issue is with toilet then professional experts are the only one who can efficiently fix it. The reason behind it is, sometime it needs to replace the drainpipe, wax ring seal, or install a new flange and only expert plumbers Belton MO can do so.

Wobbling

If the toilet wobbles or shakes while you sit on it, it's time to call a plumber. The toilet may need to be reseated, or some bolts may need to be tightened, though you can also do it by own. But sometimes a shaky toilet also indicates that there is water damage beneath the toilet and that the floor is deteriorating. In such circumstance call to an expert is beneficial rather than DYI. If you are in Belton, Mo you can find one by using the Google search console and type plumbers near me Belton, MO. It will provide you the list of top rated plumbing service providers, their contact number office address to connect with them.

Cracked tank

There could be cracks in the tank if you detect water on the floor surrounding the toilet. Leaks cause water damage to the floor as well as mold and mildew growth. Don't ignore toilet cracks; instead, replace the toilet to avoid future damage. However, toilet installation services Belton MO are professionally helpful in this regard.

Frequent congestion

A toilet's frequent blockage is unusual. If your toilet frequently clogs, this could indicate a significant problem. Older low-flush toilets are less efficient and powerful than they once were, and they will struggle to adequately flush waste and toilet paper. Replace the toilet with a newer one to remedy the problem.

Furthermore, toilet station plays an important role in bathroom renovation, so if you are going to redesign your bathroom, don't overlook the toilet station and boost your budget because commode replacement is not only fashionable but also necessary to avoid the concerns described above. Since toilet installation is a one-kind of engineering projects which needs various types of measurement, water level, its flow, and many hence, plumbers Belton MO are essential to be hired for such task.

If you do have such grudges with your toilet or planning to remodel you bathroom then Google can help you to find best nearby to your location. Superior Plumbing and Gas is a family-owned and managed plumbing business that offers personalized, pleasant services pertinent to plumbing and toilet installation in Belton MO.