scj-seouljames · 1 year ago
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The Success of Shincheonji's Bible Seminar in Daegu... "After hearing it, misunderstanding becomes understanding."
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The Bible seminars where the Chairman Man-hee Lee from Shincheonji Church of Jesus was the lecturer was held every week in each region of Seoul, Busan, Daejeon, and Incheon from April 22. It received a great response, with about 14,000 people attending, including about 1,500 pastors. 
The Bible seminar that was held in a week following one in Gwangju on the 3rd, was a place to reaffirm pastors' great interest in Revelation. 
Three hundred former and current pastors, probationary pastors, evangelists, and seminary students mostly from the Protestants, including Presbyterian, Methodist, and Full Gospel churches, who visited the Bible Seminar to check for themselves, heated up the lecture hall. In addition to pastors, about 1,700 people, including laypeople and ordinary citizens, attended and filled the seats prepared without any vacancies. 
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It was broadcast live in nine languages (English, Chinese, Japanese, French, Mongolian, Spanish, Russian, etc.) simultaneously through YouTube, and 30,000 people participated in real-time. 
A local media official who attended the seminar said, "I was quite surprised that pastors came to listen to Shincheonji's lectures in person." He evaluated saying, "The topic of the fulfillment of the prophecy of Revelation, which was considered an elusive prophecy even within the church due to its metaphorical expressions, seemed well-timed, and it gave many pastors much to realize." He added saying, "I could feel the strength of Shincheonji's growth in the lecture as they do not just interpret the parables but focus on the prophecy and the actual realities of Revelation based on the Bible." 
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Chairman Lee, who took the podium without a prepared manuscript, continued his powerful speech for an hour, overwhelming the audience. He started the lecture with his testimony of how he began his faith from being an ordinary farmer to one day being guided by a star of heaven. He said, "I stood here to convey to the pastors the fulfillment of Revelation shown by God." He added, "God and Jesus did not record the Bible as a joke. The Book of Revelation was recorded as a promise, delivered for 2,000 years, and became fulfilled today." 
Chairman Lee also said, "If you are a believer who bases your faith on the Bible, then shouldn’t you verify (the fulfilled realities)? You should judge with the word of God, the Bible, instead of accusing others as cults based on your own thoughts and judgment."
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◆ "The seminar that pastors must see" 
Most of the pastors, who sat in the front seats, listened to Chairman Lee's lecture with serious expressions. Some listened to him attentively, writing down what he was saying. 
A pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Korea said, "Chairman Lee emphasized, 'Let's humble ourselves. Let's respect each other. Apart from religion, let's meet as human-to-human and make up for each other’s shortcomings and share," which was very impressive. He added, "I think it is the right response of the religious community to check and evaluate [the word] directly rather than criticizing unconditionally with a closed mind." 
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Many evaluated that it was a lecture that pastors must see. 
Elder Kim from the Presbyterian Church said, "It was my first time listening to Chairman Lee's lecture, and I was surprised. I thought I should study more and spread it to churchgoers. It was beneficial to hear many good teachings that enlightened me when I look at the Bible. I was also quite moved by the disciplined performance and the orderly appearance of the venue." 
He also added, "Pastors tend to insist that only their churches are good. I hope they can learn good teachings and teach to the believers. After hearing this in person, I hope more people would listen to it and the word becomes spread well." 
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Protestants say that pastors have begun to seriously verify Shincheonji's teachings based on the reaction of many pastors who attended the Shincheonji Bible Seminar. 
Shincheonji Church of Jesus has held online Bible seminars through its official YouTube channel since the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the Bible seminars that were translated into each language, people overseas naturally encountered seminars of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, and more pastors began to ask for an official word exchanging with Shincheonji Church of Jesus. 
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In fact, according to the report on the overseas MOU status released by the Department of the International Missions of Shincheonji Church, 7,800 churches in 80 countries have signed MOUs with Shincheonji Church as of the end of May - the combined number of church members of these churches amount to more than 819,000. More than 1,000 churches in 32 countries have replaced their signboards to Shincheonji church. They were found to be learning the word through videos and materials provided by Shincheonji Church. It was analyzed that the reason why Korean pastors are actively engaged in exchanging Shincheonji's words reflects this trend. 
An official from Shincheonji Church of Jesus said, "This Bible seminar is significant in that it has conveyed the fulfilled realities of Revelation not only to the pastors who have been exchanging words so far, but also to new pastors," adding, "There is a growing atmosphere among pastors to check it out directly regardless of the denomination" He also said, "I hope this will be an opportunity to think and practice together what the true faith centered on the Bible is."
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For more information, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/@ShincheonjiChurch_en
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doggosaurusrex · 2 years ago
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Magical Mentorship (1/10)
Against his protestations, Hubert has been assigned to lead a class on reason magic, where he ends up with an unexpected --and unwanted -- dedicated student.
Meanwhile, unsure of how to approach his budding feelings for Ferdinand, Hubert finds himself in the role of student, whether he likes it or not.
Also known as that time Sylvain became Hubert’s self-proclaimed wingman in exchange for magic lessons.
Takes place during the Crimson Flower route with all possible units recruited.
Word count: 4848
Part Two
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“With all due respect, professor, I believe there are far more…suitable candidates for this endeavor.”
“Hubert, you are one of the most talented spellcasters I have encountered. I am only asking that you take a couple hours a week to share your knowledge with some of the others. They could learn a lot from your valuable experience.”
And with that simple conversation, Hubert found himself stuck with the dismal task of leading a reason magic seminar twice a week.
Truthfully, the professor’s idea of having her former students run seminars based on their strengths was tactically sound and an effective way to boost camaraderie between the generals in her majesty’s army. The original Black Eagles all knew each other well; however, many students from the other houses had joined their cause as well.  A boon Hubert had not anticipated back in his academy days, but one he valued, nonetheless.
There were many students who took naturally to their roles as mentors and tutors. Ferdinand was nearly running himself ragged running classes on horseback riding, lance and axe training, as well as heavy armor maintenance. With a fond smile, Hubert recalled how ecstatic Ferdinand was to be sharing his expertise. The other man had shown Hubert some of his lesson plans, at times tripping over his own words out of sheer excitement and vibrating with eagerness.
Dorothea and Petra were similarly engaged leading a large number of seminars as well. Annette and Constance had jumped at the opportunity to run their own classrooms (though how much of value the two managed to pass on to their students was up for debate). Even Caspar had convinced the professor to let him run a “battle cry” seminar…which mostly encompassed him encouraging everyone in the room to scream unintelligibly for an hour. As absurd as the concept was, the class had actually been successful in boosting Ignatz’s and Marianne’s confidence on the battlefield.
The army, with soldiers not only hailing from Adrestia, but Leiscester and even Faerghus as well, was an eclectic pool of talent. It would be a waste not to share it.
That said, Hubert had not been expecting the professor assign him as an instructor as well. He had tried to politely decline the role on multiple occasions, citing that he was already stretched thin with his duties to Lady Edelgard, as well as his off-putting demeanor that would make him ill-suited for mentoring others.
Alas, the professor had worn him down in the end. Especially once Lady Edelgard had been pulled into the conversation and she wholeheartedly agreed that Hubert would be an excellent teacher.
Hubert found himself in the lecture room that had been assigned for his seminar. With a heavy sigh, he began writing down some notes on the chalkboard at the head of the classroom. He had not the faintest idea of who would be attending, if anyone at all. It was likely Lysithea would attend for a short time. In the past, she had expressed interest in comparing magical knowledge with Hubert.
About fifteen minutes before the seminar was set to begin, Annette, Constance, and Mercedes entered the classroom, chatting with one another. Hapi trailed behind them, appearing as if she had just woken from a long nap. The four took their seats at the left side of the classroom.
Minutes later, Lysithea entered the room. She greeted Hubert before finding a seat towards the back of the classroom. She set her quill and parchment on her desk and waited for the class to begin.
Having a clearer idea of who he would be teaching, Hubert adjusted the notes he had written on the board. The five gremories in the classroom were already talented spellcasters and did not need to be re-taught the basics.
With only two minutes remaining until the session was scheduled to begin, and certain that no other students would be joining, Hubert began the lecture. If he was fortunate, the session would be done quickly and with as little aggravation as possible.
He barely got out his first sentence when the clang of armoured footsteps drew his attention to the open door.
In entered Sylvain Jose Gautier, still wearing most of his paladin’s armour and panting as if he had just run the length of the Monastery grounds. Several books were tucked under his arm and a satchel, with a sizeable number of scrolls poking up from the top, was slung over his shoulder. Sylvain took a seat at the front of the class to Hubert’s right. He pulled out some parchment and his quill, placing the objects, as well as the books he was carrying, on his desk.
“Ferdinand’s heavy armor maintenance and training seminar is being held down the hall and started twenty minutes ago,” Hubert sighed, gesturing towards the door.
“Well, I guess it’s a good thing that I’m not attending Ferdinand’s heavy armor maintenance and training seminar then, isn’t it?” Sylvain said flatly, remaining rooted in his seat.
Hubert could feel a migraine building in his temples already. The five gremories Hubert could manage. Most of them had already expressed interest in sharing magic knowledge with Hubert in the past. They were most likely attending the seminar out of professional curiosity as fellow spellcasters.
Sylvain, on the other hand, was a disaster that Hubert had hoped to never endure. Knowing the lack of interest most of Faerghus’s knights showed towards magic, it was likely that the paladin had only joined the class due to large ratio of women who were attending. Truthfully, Hubert knew that much of Gautier’s philandering was an act, not that that seemed to stop the knight from continuing his charade with every woman he encountered and subsequently incurring their wrath.
Hubert was tempted to preemptively expel Gautier from the seminar before an incident occurred.
Interestingly, Sylvain had chosen a seat that was nowhere near his other classmates. Furthermore, his attention was fully on Hubert, waiting for the class to begin.
With no reasonable cause to dismiss the paladin from the room, Hubert began the lecture.
Having already curtailed his lesson towards experienced mages, and figuring Sylvain would not absorb any of the material anyway, Hubert jumped into a discussion on how to best analyze which types of magic demonic beasts and other large creatures were vulnerable to. He jotted some notes on the board, categorizing which specific elemental spells would be most effective at shattering a beast’s well-fortified defenses.
Sylvain’s hand shot up partway through the discussion. It took every ounce of willpower Hubert had not to groan out loud. He attempted to ignore the raised hand for a time, but once it became clear that the hand would remain unwaveringly raised, Hubert sighed and silently gestured for Gautier to share his question.
“Let’s say you’re working with a battalion that specializes in lightening magic, but you’re using fire magic yourself, will the attacks stack damage or will mixing the different elemental types diminish each of their effects?”
Hubert was unable to mask his surprise. Sylvain had not only been paying attention but had asked a genuinely intelligent question.
Hubert answered Sylvain’s question and used it as a launching point into a segway of the different tactics that could be employed to fuse magic prowess with battalion formations.
Partway through the lesson, Annette, Mercedes, and Constance began talking with one another, quiet giggles coming from the trio. Hubert glared venomously at the three gremories, causing them to go silent. Hapi had given up any semblance of paying attention and was openly doodling on her scrap of parchment. Lysithea had jotted down a handful notes and watched the lecture with the quiet interest of someone who was already well-versed in the topic.
Sylvain, on the other hand, spent the entirety of the lesson fiercely scribbling notes onto his parchment. The lettering was cramped, nearly illegible, but it quickly filled the whole page. A quick glance at the knight’s writing revealed that he was copying down nearly all of the key points Hubert was lecturing about. Sylvain had even added some annotations indicating areas he had more questions about and noting connections between different topics.
The remainder of the class passed with little of interest. Sylvain asked two additional questions regarding tactical formations of mixed class units that utilized magic. Although Hubert already knew that Sylvain was far more intelligent than he let on, the astuteness of the questions still came as a surprise.
The hour came to a close and the class ended. Each of the students gathered their belongings and filed out of the room. Lysithea thanked him for the seminar and wished him a good day on her way out the door.
Once alone in the classroom, Hubert let out a heavy sigh. The seminar was not as excruciating as he had feared, but it was still an experience he had no desire to repeat. Fortunately, it seemed unlikely that the five gremories would be attending another session. Sensible, as they were already well-versed in reason magic and would be better spending their time and energy elsewhere.
As for Sylvain…his presence was likely a fluke. A moment of whimsy for the knight. Nothing more than a novel way to fill in some spare time.
Hubert doubted Sylvain would be attending any more classes.
He cleared the chalk board of his notes and diagrams, and placed his books in scrolls into a satchel. Satisfied the room had been adequately tidied, Hubert made his way to the gardens where he was to meet with Lady Edelgard.
Two days passed, and Hubert found himself making his way back to the classroom. It was minutes before the seminar was set to begin, and he had hardly prepared any materials. A scouting mission the previous day and night had consumed much of Hubert’s time. Nonetheless, he was certain the room would be empty.
He knew Mercedes had been assigned to instruct a class on faith magic. A quick glance in her classroom revealed that Annette, Constance, Hapi, and Lysithea were in attendance. Hubert smiled to himself as he continued down the corridor, knowing that not only would he be able to forego the lecture, he now had evidence to present to the professor that no one found his classes of any interest and it would be a waste of everyone’s time to continue them.
Hubert opened the door to his own classroom and balked.
Already seated at his desk, with his parchment, quill, and books ready, was Sylvain. He looked over at Hubert.
“I’m afraid there will be no class today. You are dismissed,” Hubert barked.
Sylvain crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow.
“That’s not what the schedule says.”
“Well, I’m afraid the schedule is incorrect,” Hubert hissed.
“I just got back from a mission with the professor. She said everything’s good to go for today’s lessons.”
Hubert gritted his teeth.
“Annette and the others are not attending. They have elected to take part in Mercedes’ faith magic seminar.”
“Okay…” Sylvain responded flatly. He made no move to pack his things or rise from his seat.
Hubert grumbled under his breath and made his way to the front of the room.
He picked up a piece of chalk and began outlining diagrams for tomes, staffs, and other artifacts, catalysts that were needed for safely casting magic. Exhaustion clung to his bones. Spending the night covertly tracking Thales’s movement had left him little time for rest and leading seminar was nearly the last thing he had wanted to do. Hubert wrote his notes in the smallest lettering he could manage and muttered his lecture barely above a whisper. He kept his back to his student. Perhaps if the lesson was unpalatable enough, Sylvain would leave on his own accord.
After some time, a rustling of parchment and the clinking of armor alerted Hubert that Sylvain was leaving his desk. Hubert smiled to himself knowing this farce was soon at an end.
However, instead of the armoured footsteps moving further away and out of the classroom, they only came closer until they were right beside Hubert.
“May I ask why you are out of your seat,” Hubert groaned, looking to the paladin to his right.
Sylvain held one of his books, using it for a hard writing surface for the parchment on top. He rolled his eyes at Hubert.
“Well, I can’t see or hear and damn thing from back there, so you’ll just have to put up with it.”
Grumbling to himself, Hubert continued the lesson with the same lack of enthusiasm.
The hour mercifully came to an end. Sylvain collected his belongings and made his way from the classroom.
With his only student gone, Hubert made his to the fishing pond to pay the professor a visit.
As expected, the professor was seated on the dock, a fishing pole in her hand, and a rare look of true serenity on her face. The water was still as glass, no signs of fish attempting the catch the bait. She turned at the sound of Hubert’s footsteps, her expression masked by an eerie blankness once more.
“Hubert? What can I help you with?” she asked.
“Professor, I respect your decision of assigning me as a classroom instructor; however, these last couple seminars have only confirmed my suspicions that I am unsuited for this task. I respectfully ask that you reassign someone else to lead the reason magic seminars.”
The professor frowned, her face, normally void of outward emotions, was tinged with disappointment.
“That’s too bad. I know Sylvain learned a lot from your lesson the other day. He was able to reliably cast Bolganone at least three times during our excursion this morning.”
“Is that so?” Hubert’s eyes widened. Bolganone was an intermediate fire spell. Not the hardest spell to cast, but still took a moderate amount of both honed skill and innate magical talent to successfully conjure.
The professor nodded.
“He was even nearly able to cast Sagittae.”
Hubert was stunned silent for several seconds before regaining his composure.
“Surely that has more to do with your tutelage that any minuscule knowledge gained during my seminar.”
“On the contrary,” the professor said with a small, rare smile, “Your instructions gave him a clear way to apply his spellcasting to the battlefield. I knew he had innate magic talent, but I didn’t have enough knowledge of the topic to properly guide him. I think your combination of grounded reason magic application and battlefield tactics resonated well with him.”
“Although it pleases me to hear Gautier was able to find something of use during my lectures, I am sure there are other instructors that will be able to accommodate his learning preferences.”
The professor sighed. She reeled in her line, placed the fishing rod down, and stood up from the dock. Her unnerving stare burrowed into him. Hubert tried not to flinch under its intensity.
“If that is truly what you want, I will respect your wishes. You will no longer be required to lead the reason magic seminars.”
“You have my sincerest thanks, professor.”
Hubert bowed to the professor with barely restrained glee and took his leave.
He made his way towards the gardens where he was to meet with Ferdinand for tea and coffee. The flash of energy he received when being formally dismissed of his teaching duties surged even higher as he spotted his companion already seated at one of the garden side tables.
Ferdinand waved to him, beaming, as he saw the mage approach. Hubert could not help but return the smile. It was hard to believe that mere months ago the two had been snapping at each other’s throats like starving wolves. Ferdinand’s idealism inevitably clashing with Hubert’s ruthless pragmatism. Not to mention their differing views on how to best serve Lady Edelgard and the empire. But over time and countless challenges they faced together, animosity had turned into grudging respect, grudging respect had turned into easy camaraderie, which in turn quickly became friendship. A friendship that was on the brink of turning into perhaps…something more.
“I apologize for my tardiness. There was a matter a needed to discuss with the professor,” said Hubert, taking a seat across from Ferdinand.
“You need not worry; your timing is perfect. The tea has steeped the perfect amount and the coffee has just finished brewing,” Ferdinand said with a warm smile. He picked up the percolator and poured some coffee into the closest cup.
Ferdinand handed him the cup of coffee, their fingers brushing momentarily. Hubert silently wished he had removed his gloves so that he would be able to feel the touch of Ferdinand’s flesh against his own. He shook the thought away, knowing his hands, scarred with grey lines and blotches due to overextending his casting limits, would likely just repulse Ferdinand.
Hubert accepted the cup of coffee with a thanks, a light blush touching his cheeks.
The rich aroma of the beverage sunk into his core and eased the tension he carried in his muscles and nerves. Hubert sagged in his chair, sighing with relief.
“A busy day, I take?” Ferdinand chuckled.
“Soon to be less busy. I have been mercifully relieved of my teaching duties.”
“Oh,” said Ferdinand with a frown, “That is unfortunate. I feel as if you would have made an exceptional instructor.”
“Your flattery is kind, but inaccurate in this case. I am hardly suited for mentorship.”
“Nonsense!” Ferdinand said firmly, his eyes blazing, “You are one the most intelligent and talented men I have ever encountered! Why, seeing you on the battlefield is nothing short of resplendent! Your magic, a dazzling kaleidoscope of indigo and violet, you yourself, moving with liquid finesse between shadows. Why, it is a struggle to take my eyes off you. Any student would be honoured to have you as a mentor!”
“Were you not the one who insisted compliments should be put down in writing?” Hubert said softly. He could feel the blush on his face intensifying.
“I supposed I did,” Ferdinand replied with a shy chuckle, his own cheeks tinged pink.
Ferdinand’s hand rested on the table only inches away from Hubert’s. It would be so easy to reach across the table and hold Ferdinand’s hand. Perhaps lift the hand to his lips and place and kiss on the lance-calloused fingers. Hubert could then reach up, cup the side of Ferdinand’s face, running his fingers through the copper hair, and pull the other man into a…
“There you are!” another voice cut in, “I’ve been looking for you everywhere!”
Hubert grimaced, recognizing Gautier’s voice. Sure enough, the paladin was approaching the table Hubert and Ferdinand were seated at. Sylvain dragged over a nearby chair, the iron legs scraping against the stone walkway with an ear-shattering screech, causing several other people in the garden to look in their directly. He plunked himself at the table, haphazardly moving aside the teapot and percolator. A handful of scrolls, all annotated with Sylvain’s scribbled handwriting, were spilled onto the table. The paladin unrolled the one at the top with one hand and grabbed his quill with the other.
“Look, I get how tomes and staffs can be used as magic catalysts, but how is that supposed to work with regular weaponry? Sure, a lance will stop a caster from getting blasted by their own spell, but the spell’s a lot weaker as a result. There’s got to be a way to minimize the diminished effects of casting while wielding a lance or axe, right?” said Gautier, quill in hand, and looking to Hubert for the answer.
Hubert silently stared at him; eyes narrowed into slits.
“Hubert! You did not tell me that you were such an inspiration to your students!” Ferdinand beamed, completely oblivious to the glare Hubert was shooting at Gautier. “And here you insisted that you were unsuited for teaching! It would seem you have a gift for mentorship after all.”
“That is…this is…” Hubert stammered.
“I would hate to come between a teacher and a student eager to learn. Allow me to take my leave,” said Ferdinand, rising from his chair and collecting his teacup.
“That is unnecessary! Gautier can save his question for after we are finished here!” said Hubert, perhaps a little too desperately.
“Nonsense!” Ferdinand beamed, once again unaware of Hubert’s internal screaming, “We can take tea together another time.”
He made a small departing bow to Hubert, before turning to Sylvain.
“I wish you well, Sylvain,” said Ferdinand with another small bow, “Your magic tutelage is in the hands of the greatest sorcerer Adrestia has to offer. You could not want for a better instructor. Until next time!”
Hubert watched helplessly as Ferdinand departed, the mage silently pleading for the other man to return.
“Wait…” said Sylvain as he too watched Ferdinand leave. An insidious grin spread across his face. “Did I just crash your date?”
Hubert groaned, resisting the urge to bury his face in his hands. Never before had he wanted the ground swallow him up so much as he did at that moment.
“I haven’t the faintest idea of which you speak,” Hubert growled in as menacing as a voice as he could manage.
Evidently, not menacing enough as Sylvain broke into a roar of laughter.
“I knew it! Ha! Balthus owes me fifty coins! So, how long have you and Ferdinand been an item?”
“As I have said, Ferdinand and I are merely comrades. There is nothing of a romantic nature going on between the two of us,” Hubert gritted. He could feel fire crawling up his neck and spreading across his face. He internally cursed how crimson his pale skin could turn.
“Wait, you guys really aren’t officially together? Damn! Now I owe Yuri seventy coins,” Gautier cursed to himself.
Hubert seriously considered luring Gautier to secluded spot in the monastery and dousing the paladin with Mire until his flesh melted into an unrecognizable, congealed mess. Or perhaps slitting the knight’s throat and framing the “unfortunate��� incident as an assassination from the church.
However, as much as it pained Hubert to admit, Sylvain’s presence was a boon to her majesty’s war efforts. He was the first of the former Blue Lions to join her majesty’s cause (even if his initial reason for joining their class was utterly preposterous) and was a large part of the reason they were able to recruit students from houses Galatea and Fraldarius. Furthermore, he would be a much-needed asset in stabilizing the northern regions of what would soon be the former kingdom once Blaiddyd was cut down. Not to mention the valuable intel House Gautier had on the relationship between Fodlan and Sreng.
Disposing of Sylvain Jose Gautier was, regrettably, out of the question.
“Dare I ask why the subject of my personal affairs has become the source of so many wagers?” Hubert growled; his fists clenched on his lap.
“You’re joking, right?” Sylvain said with a raised eyebrow, “You two have been mooning over each other for weeks! Everybody sees it! The lunches together where you shower praise on one another, the tea dates, and don’t get me started on that heartfelt gift exchange the two of you had last week.”
Hubert felt the colour drain from his face and his stomach plummet to his feet. He could have sworn the two of them had been alone, and as far as Hubert knew, neither of them had shared the interaction with their peers. The only dormitory near their meeting was…      
“Bernadetta,” Hubert muttered, burying his face in his hand.
“Don’t get mad at Bernadetta,” Sylvain sighed, holding up his hands as if defending the mentioned archer on her behalf, “You know how terrified she is of you, even when you wear that embroidered flower she made. Besides, she instantly regretting blurting out what she saw and now thinks you’re planning on murdering her in her sleep.”
Hubert groaned, his face still buried in his hands.
“When you say ‘everyone’…”
“Pretty much three quarters of the Garreg Mach alumni and instructors. The remaining quarter is either somehow more oblivious than the two of you, or just flat out don’t care. Edelgard was one of the only people who insisted there wasn’t anything going on between you and Ferdinand…at least until she walked in on Ferdinand making himself some coffee, stating that he had become “accustomed” to the taste…I wonder how that happened…”
“You pulled her majesty into this utter nonsense?” Hubert snarled.          
“In our defense, she invited herself once the rumours started flying. Don’t worry, she fully supports you guys!” Sylvain said with a grin.
Hubert was not the praying type, but he prayed with every ounce of his being that a bolt of lightning would appear and turn Sylvain into ash. Of course, if what Sylvain said was accurate, lightning bolts would be needed for a good chunk of their army. Perhaps it would be easier if Hubert himself got struck by the bolt instead…
“So, when are you going to finally admit to our army’s famous golden boy that you fancy him?”
“I was under the impression you were here to discuss magic, not to pry into my personal affairs,” Hubert growled.
“Didn’t answer my question, Hubie,” Sylvain smirked.
Hubert gritted his teeth. It was one thing when Dorothea used the absurd nickname. But coming from Gautier…Hubert was no brawler, but suddenly the urge to slug the knight’s smug face sounded immensely appealing.
“Why the sudden interest in magic?” said Hubert, desperate to change the subject, “You are already a skilled paladin. Magic hardly seems to be the type of subject a knight of Faerghus would concern themselves with.”
Sylvain sighed, his face turning serious. He reached into a pouch that was secured to his belt. He pulled out creased bit a parchment and placed it on the table. Hubert picked up the parchment, his eyes widening as he read its contents.
“The Dark Knight examination. My, that is an ambitious goal.”
A masterclass exam, and one of the hardest ones to complete. The professor had tried to convince Hubert to try out for the exam too, though his abysmal horseback riding abilities held him back from attempting the certification.      
“The professor thinks I have some innate magic talent and thinks Dark Knight training would be a good fit for me,” Sylvain replied in a tone that could almost be described as shy, “Problem is the certification exam is pretty brutal and I’ve never received any formal magic training. I’m learning what I can from books in the library and professor has given me a few pointers, but I don’t think it’s going to be enough…”
“A troubling predicament, indeed,” Hubert handed the parchment back to Sylvain, “I wish you the best of luck in your endeavor.”
The two sat in silence for a few moments before Sylvain spoke again.
“I have an idea…”
Hubert did not like the grin that was spreading even wider across Gautier’s face.
“You continue to tutor me on reason magic, and I help you come up with ways to woo Ferdinand. Deal?”
Sylvain smiled politely in a way that suggested what he said was a most reasonable proposal.
Hubert stared at him flatly.
“I do not need assistance “wooing” Ferdinand, as you so aptly put it,” Hubert hissed, his jaw clenched to the point that it felt as if his teeth were about to shatter.
“Really? Because the little bit I saw was pretty pathetic,”
Hubert slammed a fist on the table, causing it as well as the teapot and percolator to rattle. Sylvain just watched him with a raised eyebrow and a small smirk.
“As I have stated multiple times, I have no romantic feelings for Ferdinand von Aegir,” Hubert said sternly, struggling to keep his voice even.
“Okay, let’s skip to the part where you stop lying, and discuss how your courting attempts are going so far. The fancy tea gift was a good start, but what’s your next plan?”
Hubert threw his hands up in the air, resisting the urge to scream. Sylvain patiently watched him with the same infuriating smirk. Taking a few calming breaths, Hubert spoke.
“Tell me, Sylvain, what would possess me to think that you are a suitable source for courting advice? I was under the impression that most of the women who come into contact with you cannot be rid of your presence fast enough.”
“Hey, most of that is self-inflicted, and you know it. Don’t pretend you don’t’ have some creepy dossiers on everyone in this army, detailing all of their behaviours and innermost thoughts,” said Sylvain. Hubert remained silent, neither denying nor confirming the accusation.
“Look…think about what I said. I think we can help each other out quite a bit,” Sylvain smirked.
With that, the paladin stuffed the scrolls back into his satchel and departed, leaving Hubert by himself at the table.
Hubert grumbled under his breath, tidying up the remaining dishes, teapot, and peculator that were left from his tea with Ferdinand.
Courting advice.
What an utterly absurd notion.
8 notes · View notes
agustdakasuga · 4 years ago
Text
Between the Bloodshed | Chapter 7
Genre: Mafia!AU, Angst, Romance, Fluff
Pairing: OT7 x Reader
Characters: Doctor!Reader, Gangster!Namjoon, Gangster!Seokjin, Gangster!Yoongi, Gangster!Hoseok, Gangster!Jimin, Gangster!Taehyung, Gangster!Jungkook
Summary: Being a freelance doctor, this was just supposed to be any other job, helping a private client and taking care of him through his recovery. But you were not expecting to get caught in something so much darker that would change your life entirely.
Going with your parents to an event, you didn’t think to meet some familiar faces there. And finally, the 7 boys get to see the family that you refused to speak about. 
Warning: This story is fictional and has nothing to do with real life events or the actual members of BTS. It may contain depictions of violence, blood shed/ gore and mentions of abuse. Please read at your own discretion.
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The dreaded friday morning finally came. Your mother had spent the whole night before on the phone with you, squealing excitedly about the dress she chose for you. 
“I’ll see you tonight, Kookie.” You stroked his head, making sure the rabbit had enough food and water for the day. Adjusting your hair in the mirror, you cringed slightly at yourself, clad in a light blue sundress your mother always liked. You slung your bag over your shoulder and headed out the door. 
“Can I have a coffee to go, please?” You ordered. The maid bowed and scurried off to make your regular iced coffee order. 
“Woah.” Jungkook came down. 
“One word and you’ll be unconscious.” You grumbled. He choked, whistling innocently instead. 
“Have a nice day, agashi.” The maid placed your to-go container on the counter. You nodded your head and took a sip. When you turned to head to the front door, you saw 7 pairs of eyes staring at you. 
“What?” You hissed. 
“Nothing.” Taehyung shook his head. You rolled your eyes, walking to the front to wear your shoes. 
“I’ll be back tonight.” You mumbled, giving a backwards wave before leaving the house. Your father was already waiting by his car for you. You gave a small wave and headed over. Without a word, your father just gave an acknowledging nod and entered the car. That was your relationship, strictly professional. Frankly, you were thankful for that. 
“Your mom is very excited for you to visit.” He said as he started to drive. 
“I know. Work gets busy so it’s hard to stop by.” You shrugged, putting your seatbelt on. 
“This family seems well off.” He commented. 
“Well, I’m sure you’ve heard of them. They aren’t exactly hidden from public eye in terms of their achievements and wealth. 7 young men, rich beyond belief.” You scoffed. 
“I do know them, do you?” 
“I would like to think I do. Working for them has been a pleasure, so far. For young men, they keep things very professional.” You said. Your parents always tried to convince you to work in a normal hospital, they always believed your skills should be displayed for others to see. 
“You declined your mother’s invitation for that surgical seminar?” 
“She has other surgeons under her that are equally, if not more, qualified than me. It’ll benefit them better if one of them were elected to go instead of me.” You explained. Your father pursed his lips. 
The car pulled up to the house. It wasn’t a mansion but it was still a rather big property that your parents owned. 
“(y/n)!” Your mother ran out to greet you with a hug. 
“Omma.” You hesitantly wrapped your arms around her. She chuckled, pulling away as she held your hands in hers. Patting the back of your hands, she led you into the house. 
“You look healthy.” She complimented. 
“Thank you.” You gave a small smile. There was an array of dishes on the dining table, ready for you to arrive for a meal. You went to help bring the bowls of rice out. Even if it was awkward with your parents, it was nice to have a sit down, family style meal. Your parents sat opposite you, together, while you sat across the table. 
“The car will be picking us up at 7pm.” Your father said. You nodded your head, chewing the end of your chopstick to stop yourself from saying something you would regret. 
“Stop that, (y/n). It’s a bad habit.” Your mother scolded. You removed the metal from your mouth, picking the foods instead. 
“That’s a nice bracelet.” Your mother smiled. 
“Oh, yeah... Just a token gift from a friend.” You shrugged it off. Through the rest of the meal, you listened to your parents talk about what they have been up to at work, in an attempt to persuade you to work with them. 
“You didn’t accept my invitation for that seminar. It’s prestigious, (y/n), that’s why I want you to go.” Your mother said. 
“One of your surgeons under you would benefit better from it than me, omma. Besides, I’m under a contract to work with my client now. It wouldn’t be responsible of me to just leave for a two week seminar like that.” You scoffed, putting a scoop of rice into your mouth. 
"Have you spoken to your brother recently?” Your father asked. You shook your head. Your brother didn’t live in Korea, he lived in the UK with his family. 
“Well, he has been helping with a lot of big cases in the queen’s court. They may even fly him to the States to give a seminar to some prestigious universities.” He informed. 
“I see...” Your brother wasn’t a doctor like you but he was a big-shot lawyer that worked on tons of famous court cases. 
“He says he wants to visit in a few weeks. You should be here so we can have a nice dinner together. Jumin might want to have the baby here.” Your mother said excitedly. 
“Oh, really...” You weren’t really interested at the thought of your sister-in-law having her second child here. 
“And you can help too.” 
“Omma, I’m working, I told you. I can’t be here just to take care of her new born.” You sighed. You loved your sister-in-law but having to live in a house with her, her new born and your nephew while your brother is here, will be torture for you with your parents constantly telling you how much greater they are compared to you. 
RINGGGGGGG
“Sorry, work call.” You stood up and stepped aside to answer your phone.
“Hello?” 
“Am I interrupting? You just sound like you’re having the time of your life. ” 
“Ha... ha... sure. But no, you’re to interrupting, you called at the perfect time, actually. What’s up? Someone dead or close to being dead?” You asked. Jimin laughed at your joke. 
“Unfortunately, no. Yoongi hyung is complaining about pain so I just wanted to ask if there is anything I can give him.” 
“Well, considering my medicine safe keys are with me, there’s no much you can do. Oh wait, Jin has a spare set. You can get him to open it. Look for the green bottle labelled ‘Celebrex’ or celecoxib. Give him one and that should be enough until I come back tonight.” You instructed. 
“Wait, how come only Jin hyung gets to have a spare set of keys?” 
“As the oldest, I would trust that he is responsible enough to not have a feast with my pills.” You scoffed.
“I’m hurt that you don’t think we’re responsible enough.”
“That doesn’t make me feel guilty at all. Anyway, let me know how Yoongi is. For now, ask him to wear his sling.” You told Jimin. You wouldn’t mind Yoongi having to call you home to help him. 
“He’s still able to curse at us so we should be fine.” 
“Bummer.” You mumbled. With another laugh, Jimin hung up. You sighed, returning to the table. 
“Your dad just got called in for an emergency.” Your mother informed as she cleared up the dishes. You nodded your head, watching your father put his coat on and grab his work bag. With a small wave of acknowledgement, he slipped his shoes on and left. Your parents were both workaholics, they were always highly praised for their work ethics. 
“So, any partners yet?” Your mother asked as you helped her with the dishes.
“Omma, you know I’m not looking for anyone now. I’m very much involved in my work like you and dad.” You said. 
“But still, with our busy schedules as residents, your father and I were able to get married and start a family. If not, you and your brother wouldn’t even be here.” She let out a small laugh. 
“I know. But oppa already made you a grandma with Jisung (nephew), with another on the way. There’s no rush for me.” You shrugged. 
“It’ll still be nice.” 
“I’m gonna rest in my room for a little bit.” You dried your hands and headed up to your room. Conversations like these with your parents were just suffocating and tiresome. 
“I need to get out of this.” You changed out of your dress and slipped on some shorts with an oversized hoodie. 
BEEP BEEP
‘Jimin said you’re having the time of your life. - Hoseok’
‘Yes, I am. And are you supposed to be texting me when I’m off duty? A little unprofessional, don’t you think, Mr Jung? - (y/n)’
‘If you can do wellness checks on us, I can do it on you too. But if you need saving with a ‘medical emergency’ to come back to the house, I’m sure I can injure someone for you. Maybe Jungkook or Jimin can take the bullet. I’ll make sure it’s not fatal. - Hoseok’
‘It’s just visiting my parents. I think I can handle it. But I’m oddly touched that you’re willing to do that for me. Someone kissing a*s here? - (y/n)’
‘With you? NEVERRRRRRR. - Hoseok’
“(y/n)? I wanted to show you your dress that I picked out for you.” Your mother was at your door. Leaving your phone on your bed, you went over and opened the door for her. 
“Look.” She unzipped the cloth covering and revealed the dark blue dress that she picked out for you. It was off shoulder with a flowy skirt. 
“It’s nice.” You forced a smile. 
“I knew you would like it.” She grinned, patting your head. Going to your closet, she hung it up, digging through whatever shoes you had left behind to match the dress. She placed the shoes at the bottom of the dress. 
“I trust that you can do your hair and make up on your own?” She raised an eyebrow. 
“Of course.” You shrugged. 
“Tonight, it’s a gala event to celebrate the approval of a new health campus to be opened. Governors, sponsors and potential candidates for the board of directors will be attending. It’s a rather big event. A lot of big names will be there so naturally, a lot of press ” Your mother informed. You nodded your head, wondering if you would see 7 familiar faces there as well. 
“Your father is a potential candidate for the new psychiatric unit head.” She continued. 
“I’m sure he would love for you to be under him. He can definitely get you a good position under his team. Or you could be under my team when I make the move over.” She looked at you. 
“Wait, both of you are moving over to this new health campus?” You asked, completely ignoring her persuading you to work under them. 
“That’s the plan.” She shrugged. 
“But you’ve been with Korea University Hospital for like... ever. And dad’s already in the board of directors for Seoul Institute of Mental Health.” You frowned slightly. 
“Well, when a better opportunity comes up, means it’s time to move on.” Your mother place her hand over yours. 
-
You had done your hair, neatly braiding it and pinning it up. Sitting in front of your vanity, you did some light make up on your face, finishing off with some shimmering lip gloss. 
“Time to change.” You went to your closet and fished the blue dress out fo the cloth covering. You slipped it on, smoothing down the skirt with your hands and staring at your reflection to make sure that nothing was out of place. Your parents would want everything to be pristine for a good impression.
“(y/n)! Are you ready?” Your mother called. 
“Coming!” Picking up your shoes in your hands, you carried your small bag and headed downstairs. 
“I knew it was a good pick.” Your mother clasped her hands together with sparkling eyes as she saw you approaching. Even your father nodded in approval at your appearance. 
“Thanks.” You murmured. 
“Let’s go.” Your father held his arm out to your mother, who hooked arms with him, and walked out. You simply walked behind them silently. A limousine was ready on the drive way with a driver standing there, opening the door for the three of you to enter. You sat opposite your parents, your hands resting in your lap. Your fingers fiddled with your bracelet. 
“Sir, madam, agashi.” The car came to a stop. Through the tinted window, you saw a row of reporters ready at the entrance of the building. You took a deep breath as the chauffeur opened the door. 
“We’ll answer a few questions then head in. Just smile and answer things briefly.” Your father said to you. You nodded and stepped out. 
“Mr (y/l/n)!” Reporters called out. 
“Is it true that you’re a potential candidate for the new health campus’ psychiatric department?” You stood by the side, a small smile as your father answered questions. 
“Right this way.” The security cut off the questions after a few minutes. You let out a sigh of relief. 
“Let’s go say hi.” Your mother didn’t let you out of her sight, dragging you to meet old men that possibly decided her and your father’s future job positions. All you could do was smile and shake their hands. 
“(y/n), you remember Jaewon?” Your mother smiled, bringing forth a young man in a suit to you. You internally rolled your eyes, here we go. Every event you went to seemed to be a matchmaking opportunity for your mother. She would be very delighted to wed you off. 
“Jaewon?” You tilted your head. 
“He was in my cardio-thoracic team but went to the States 5 years ago for a partnership.” She reminded. 
“Ah, yes.” You smiled and shook his hand. You’ve seen him a few times. Your mother had even invited him over for a couple of meals when youw ere still living with her. 
“How are you, (y/n)? You look amazing.” He complimented. 
“I’m doing good, thank you. You don’t look so bad yourself. I’m glad you still speak Korean fluently.” You raised your eyebrows. 
“(y/n)!” Your mother sent you a disapproving look while Jaewon blinked but laughed, nodding his head. Soon, you saw your mother abandoning you to join your father, leaving you to converse with Jaewon.
“Where are you working now?” 
“Private.” You said, taking a glass of champagne and sipping it. Jaewon nodded his head. 
“Right, you worked with private clients right? As like their in-house, family physician. I know your mother told me that you weren’t comfortable working in a public place. So you turned down a lot of good job opportunities at prestigious hospitals.” Jaewon sipped from his own glass. You frowned slightly, what exactly was he hinting at? 
“What you hear from my mother is what she thinks she knows about my job. Anything to try and convince someone to persuade me to work under them.” You chuckled. 
“That’s not-”
“Sorry, may I interrupt?” A new voice came. There was whispers and murmurs around you. That voice was all too familiar. 
“I was wondering if I was going to see you here.” You smirked, turning around to face 7, all too familiar, men. Jimin winked at you while Hoseok flashed his blinding smile. Jaewon looked confused. 
“Of course we would be here. Sponsors are the main invited guests, you know?” Yoongi spoke first. 
“You know them, (y/n)?” Jaewon asked. 
“Know them? I live with them. Unfortunately.” You rolled your eyes. Jaewon’s eyes widened at your statement. Jungkook placed his arm around your waist, staring Jaewon down. 
“I told you about the touching.” You glared at the youngest, elbowing his ribs. Still, he didn’t lose his composure and just calmly moved away. 
“Well, bye!” Namjoon gave a friendly smile before pulling you away. You gave Jaewon a backwards wave, following the boys to another side of the room. Once you were away from most of the crowd, you let out a sigh of relief, shaking your head while the boys just gave you amused smiles. 
“When you said you had friday night plans, we didn’t expect to see you here, doc.” Jin smiled. 
“Let’s just say, I didn’t come here willingly.” You snorted. 
“Are your parents sponsors?” Taehyung asked. 
“No, they aren’t. They’re supposedly part of the new health campus’ head department team so they’re here to butter people up.” You crossed your arms. The boys weren’t surprised by how honest you were.
“But you look nice.” Jimin smiled. 
“Stop or I will stab your eye. Also, how’s the shoulder Yoongo?” You changed the subject. Yoongi shrugged his good shoulder and you nodded your head with a small smile. 
“(y/n).” Someone called. 
“Dad.” You turned to see your father. He raised an eyebrow and you sighed, walking over to him. 
“I didn’t know you were friends with our sponsors? They’re one of the new campus’ biggest sponsors, you know? Young entrepreneurs with big names.” Your father said. You shrugged. 
“I don’t know if I would call them friends. But they’re the clients I’m working with now. Honestly, didn’t even know that they were coming or that they were sponsors.” You blinked at him. Your father nodded, turning on his business smile before walking over to the 7 young men. They all shook hands with your father, exchanging formalities. 
“I had no idea my daughter was working for the family.” He laughed. 
“Yes, she’s one of our best employees. It’s a pleasure having her work with us.” Namjoon complimented and you mentally scoffed. 
“She could use that talent in a hospital but refuses, sadly.” Your dad joked and you rolled your eyes.
“Shall we get some food?” Jungkook offered. You nodded and headed over to the buffet table with him and Taehyung, leaving your dad to talk to Namjoon and the others. 
“This is boring.” Taehyung complained. 
“You would think that with how many events you guys have been to, that you’re used to all this. I haven’t been to many and I am.” You shrugged, picking up a piece of cheese and putting it into your mouth. Taehyung and Jungkook laughed, they knew you hated being here from the moment they saw you. 
“Shall we get out of here?” Jungkook wriggled his eyebrows. 
“I would actually like to live another day so count me out. I’m here only for my parents and I plan to see to that until the end of the night.” You stated. Taehyung handed you a glass of wine. 
“(y/n), I was looking for you.” Your mother came. You placed the glass down, stepping away from Taehyung and Jungkook. 
“What’s wrong, omma?” 
“You... know them?” She cast a brief glance to the two young men behind you, who had now been surrounded by other young girls that wanted at least half of the attention they gave you. 
“My current clients.” You shrugged. 
“I see... Only clients?” 
“Yes, omma. You know I don’t mix business with personal relations. Everything is strictly professional.” You assured her. She nodded her head. You couldn’t tell if she was relieved or disappointed by what you said. 
~~
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queenshelby · 3 years ago
Text
The Last Semester – Part 30
Pairing: Cillian Murphy x Reader
Words: 897
Warning: Pregnancy
Several months later…
You were 38 weeks’ pregnant and felt like an elephant who walked like a penguin. There was nothing erotic about the way you looked now but Cillian disagreed with how you viewed yourself. He adored your pregnant body and constantly had to touch and kiss you.
But it wasn’t just your changing body he adored. He adored the whole concept of you being pregnant with his child and you even complained to your new mother-in-law that her son was driving you crazy in the best possible way.
Ever since he found out that you were pregnant, Cillian had become a perfectionist. He did things by the book and attended seminars with you even though he already had two teenage boys and had done it all before.
He wanted to be prepared and, just as his ex-wife had warned you, he was strict. He even had this whole plan on how to get to the hospital faster from your house but, little did he know, that it wasn’t his house from which he had to get you to the hospital.
It was a Sunday afternoon when you were visiting your father’s house that your water broke.
‘Oh my god’ you huffed out as you suddenly felt a gush of water running down your leg just as your father looked at you and handed you a glass of orange juice.
The glass fell to the ground and the moment he saw the water dripping down your legs, he passed out.
‘Fucking really?’ you huffed out, supporting yourself against the kitchen bench.
‘Cillian, I need you to take me to hospital’ you shouted out and, of course, he came running for you immediately alongside your stepmother who attended to your father who was slowly regaining consciousness.
It took for a moment for your to finally wake up.  He rubbed his cheek feeling stinging pain. 
‘You need to get it together for fuck sake’ your stepmother growled as he saw that your father was a blubbering mess throughout that you couldn't even understand a thing he was saying. 
***
The drive to the hospital took twenty minutes and contractions had clearly started at this point. To your surprise Cillian was calm but you were hysterical.
‘Just breathe…deep breaths remember?’ he said with a warm smile as he pulled up in front of the hospital followed by your stepmother and father.
‘I wish my father wouldn’t be coming, fucking hell’ you huffed out in between laboured breaths as Cillian helped you out of the car.
‘Don’t worry, they won’t let him into the delivery room’ Cillian reassured you just as one of the nurses in attendance in front of the hospital quickly put you into one of the wheelchairs and pushed you through the corridor.
***
As soon as you entered the deliver room and were changed into a gown, Cillian was able to join you and take his place by your side.
‘Fuck this hurts…who’s fucking idea was this god dammit’ you growled, consumed by pain.
‘Yours, actually’ Cillian chuckled and you couldn’t help but give him a nudge.
‘Fuck Cillian, it’s not funny! It’s easy for you to joke. You don’t have to fucking push the baby out’ you huffed out in between contractions while the midwife assessed where you were at.
‘Sorry, she doesn’t normally swear that much’ Cillian then said to the midwife and you gave him yet another serious look.
‘You are 8 cm dilated.  You're doing a good job’ the midwife then said but everything became a blur and all you could hear was ‘push’ and ‘breathe’.
‘That’s it babe, you are doing so well’ you heard Cillian say on several occasions while he was running his hand through your hair as you were crying from the pain.
‘One more push’ the midwife then finally said as you felt like your womb was on fire and Cillian encouraged you again when you cried and said that you couldn’t take any more.
He may sometimes have been annoying throughout this pregnancy, but hearing his voice made you more motivated to be stronger.  To push harder regardless of the pain.  He could see it.  He could see you trying so hard to finally bring your baby boy to this world and he couldn’t help but feel a little pain in his throat as he tried to stop himself from crying.  
Then, finally, the first cry echoed through the room. 
Cillian looked up to see his baby boy.  A smile immediately plastered on his face and tears began to form. 
‘He is beautiful’ Cillian barely managed to say, overwhelmed with love. ‘I love you Y/N’ he then said and peppered you with kisses while the midwife placed your little boy onto your chest.
‘I can't believe it.  We made this beautiful baby boy’ you said with a crack in your voice as it was your turn to cry this time and both Cillian and you were in awe with your son.
He was perfect, with large blue eyes and dark blonde hair. He looked very much like his father, that was for sure.
NEXT PART FINAL PART....
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yinses · 4 years ago
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college au! headcanons
gojo satoru, geto suguru & nanami kento
rqst: college au for nanami, geto and gojo?
a/n: so i divided it into three categories to help keep my head straight. honestly almost straight kicked gojo out of college bc i couldn’t decide on a major for him. the jjk discord server is heaven sent for my sanity. ty everyone again 🌺
last time i should have to post these. hoping everything is fine now. 
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gojo satoru
MAJOR
—he starts off undecided for a long time. the fact that he’s on scholarship allows him to be more flexible with his classes given that he’s not responsible for costs. he grew up with expectations from his family but university is suppose to be his opportunity to spread his own wings and grow from his experiences.
—so he tries a bit of everything- sciences, music and social studies- anything to prompt a spark. (took a business class once and made a point to sit next to nanami everyday just to annoy him) by his second year he’s getting as frustrated as his counselor because if he doesn’t decide soon he’ll be a potential 5th year senior.
—he’s overthinking it but gojo wants to invest in what he believes will make the most significant impact to his ability. his counselor takes those crumbs and runs with it.
—he gets steered towards political science and actually excels at it (that advisor gets a raise). surprises most of the class with his analytical skills because they thought he was just a pretty boy- surprise he’s beautiful and smart.
—develops a vested interest in governmental policies. might run for president one day idk. brings donuts to his early am class. doesn’t share.
SOCIAL
—he’s not the jock per say, but as the star athlete of the basketball team, the school likes to take advantage of his image to draw in sponsors.
—his face is plastered all over the auditorium whether they’re in season or not. sometimes it’s not even to promote basketball, gojo is pretty and they’re not afraid to use it. which also makes him one of the most recognizable faces on campus.
—due to his student athlete contract, he’s not allowed to sign autographs freely in the event they’re attempted to be sold as quick cash. but yikes, he can barely walk to class without someone stopping him for a picture. to the best of his ability he tries to laugh it off, poster boy image and all, but it gets pretty fucking old and annoying quickly. especially when it makes him late for his next lesson and the instructor shows no sympathy.
—his height didn’t only help him get into basketball, but its also convenient when it comes to shouldering politely through the student masses. his golden rule is don’t make eye contact. the busier the crowds the easier it is for him to pretend like he could’t possibly have heard them.
—gojo doesnt scout fraternities, fraternities scout him. but he’s not interested in the slightest. as an athlete he already gets into any social circle he wants without the additional effort. that and he doesnt think he could tolerate an alpha male trying to exert his dominance without barking back.
—loves to show up to parties but always arrives late enough to the point where they don’t think he’s coming. it helps him slip in when he wants too. he’s a connoisseur of all alcohol varieties and a master of beer bong. he’s not necessarily the life of the party but his presence is kind of hard to miss.
RELATIONSHIPS
—he gets too much attention to date casually. most potential suitors are in it more for the benefits they receive than him anyway. he’s got enough on his plate with career indecisiveness and games to try to pursue anything serious before third year.
—he’s not completely celibate though. he tries to keep the same partners as long as he can. not only to keep himself clean and safe but because he often goes into an agreement to keep it casual. sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. either way he gets coined as a ‘heartbreaker’ before the end of his freshman year. frankly the rumors obscure most of the truth and give him more freedom. people always expect that he’s with someone even when he’s not, which helps keep his invasive teammates off his back.
—gojo can easily graduate without securing something tangible but there is still a window for potential.
—you’re both his consistent classmate and occasional friends with benefits. its the former title that keeps bringing him back around. he cant exactly avoid you without subjecting himself to 8am classes. it helps that the sex is good too.
—he can text you an offer to study together for the next test and roll over after an hour and wreck you for the rest of the week. its hard to tell who gets addicted first but he does appreciate the way your skin looks when youre wearing his marks.
geto suguru
MAJOR
—he’s a STEM kid, particularly interested in bio-genetics to improve overall health. he believes that simply becoming a physician just keeps the issue at bay and his goal is to eradicate the problem at its source.
—since high school he’s been cataloging different programs across the country before deciding what he wanted and putting all his efforts into it. so it’s no surprise when he gets in.
—geto doesn’t need counselors but they’re required so he listens to them prattle on about using university as an opportunity to explore. this man came in with more college credits than most sophomores, he knows what he wants.
—always on-time to class and never misses an assignment. also that kid who goes above and beyond, even on the simple stuff. he rarely gets teased about it, not even behind his back. geto straight up scares some people even when he’s smiling.
—not afraid to correct teachers when they’re wrong. in fact he lives for it.
—he’s the one who graduated early and starts his master’s program before most of his age group declare their own majors.
SOCIAL
—he tends to frequent the same circles- handpicking his acquaintances out of class rosters, clubs and honor lists. he’s less in it for the friendship and more so to scout for potential research partners.
—met gojo in one of his science electives and literally carried him through the class. they somehow end up friends but only really hang out at each other’s places- bunch of chill movie nights and pizza.
—there is no interest in fraternities, but he does join university funded clubs that allow him to further his research. they give him unique access to labs, take him on trips to different conventions and have an alumni list a kilometer long for future collaborations.
—the man does not party but he will occasionally slip into quieter bars to ease some of his frustrations. he actually enjoys karaoke thursdays , not to sing for himself but the drunken antics of others bring him some amusement.
—smokes weed occasionally, but only his own product. it helps him relaxand fan out the stress. he never sells it but sometimes gojo nicks some of his stash. given that he gets drug tested often, geto doesn’t know how the athlete never gets caught.
RELATIONSHIPS
—not interested in seeking out relationships in the slightest. the man has a plan and he’s already married to it.
—he’s not completely immune to sexual advances though and occasionally splurges but none of the friends with benefits crap. he’ll hit it once and stay celibate for the rest of the year easily.
—you might be able to squeeze in as his fellow lab partner. remain invested in the work and not him and he’ll start noticing the little details of your company- the way you subtle perfume lingers on his lab coat hours after you’ve adorned for the day, how he knows you have to keep your hair up for safety precautions but he thinks about running his fingers through it daily and your mind, damn, he wonders what else you can come up with when he has you laid out on his sheets.
—if he’s interested, geto won’t hesitate to broach the topic. he’ll ask you out for coffee and when you try to bring up research he’ll be upfront about his attraction. ultimately if you start dating the two of you are an absolute unit- not that you weren’t before.
—you’re the one variable he didn’t plan for but he’s glad to have added you to the equation.
nanami kento
MAJOR
—he was made for the business world, brought by a CEO who raised him to inherit the company. administration major marketing minor.
—takes initiative in all his classes and is often coined as group leader for projects. mostly keeps to himself  and only speaks up when prompted or disagrees with something.
—he takes the earliest sessions possible because it means less people more often than not. doesn’t really care if its in the front, middle or back but always sits near the edge.
—doesn’t really want to but it looks good on his resume so he joins the marketing team where they present mock business plans for competitions. they win a lot. nanami honestly doesn’t care. but again it looks good.
—it only took him a brief summer internship to learn that he found nothing satisfying about board meetings and macro management.
—he decides to invest in law school to handle the company from a legal standpoint instead.
SOCIAL
— sort of like geto, only wants to make friends on a need be basis.
—he would rather keep to himself but knows the benefits of socializing so he interacts with his frequent classmates when he can- through study groups or car pooling to seminars.
—he does join a fraternity, its the same one his father did (and uncles, cousins, whatnot. its a generational thing). its geared towards bettering future leaders. they focus building resumes, charity events and run the organization like a proper business. nanami gets elected president by his third year and runs two terms.
—the only parties he attends are networking events- full of wine and fancy horderves. wine is plentiful but he’s always nursing a scotch on top of his headache. if one more person squeezes their stocks into a conversation he’s going to personally take down the whole market
—zero interest in college party life. spends some of his downtime at the campus theater watching old time movies and classic plays.
—he’s the coffee shop hoe. he wakes up early sometimes just to sit by the window and read some casual literature. has his own thermo that gives him free refills to cart to class. do not talk to this man before he’s had his caffeine.
RELATIONSHIP
—he probably has a high school sweetheart that he’s still clinging too, whether on the same campus or long distance. it helps him because he can’t really see himself pursuing a relationship while focusing on school.
—he’s been with you long enough that you understand his ambitions and won’t feel bested by them. the two of you have a system- starting the day off with sweet ‘good morning’ texts before class and ending the day with long conversations as you digest the last 12 hours.
—nanami is independent but he is thankful to have you to rely on when classes start to overwhelm him. the two of try to escape briefly for the weekend when you can. often going to near by reservations just to get off campus
—other times the two of you will cuddle close on your dorm bed, his long fingers combing through your hair while he reads over some notes for class.
—sometimes you have to be the one to tell him to take a break and to enjoy life while he can. even if that means dragging him the events and concerts hosted on campus. he resists at first but you can see the tension ebbing away as the night comes to a close.
—the two of you start living together in your senior year just because you can. he insists on buying a house. not only because he can afford it because it can be rented out after graduation. always the business man.
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thejilyship · 3 years ago
Text
Taking the Lead
For @jilychallenge August 2021 Theme: Summer Prompt: "I saw you staring and so decided to try to put on my suncream ~sensually~ but omg the lid just popped off and the whole bottle came out stOP grinning oMG" @thejilyship v @sirenicc I did not think I was going to get this done! Also it's fem!jily. No one should be surprised at this point.
WC: 3.5k AO3
A leadership camp was the absolute last place that Jamie wanted to spend any part of her summer. She and Sirius had made plans to go white water rafting, concert hoping, castle hiking, dive bar hunting and he’d even promised to attend a total of four sperate ballets with her. She did not have time to spend a week in the middle of the Scottish hills singing camp songs with a bunch of people that she didn’t know.
She didn’t need a leadership camp. She was, as almost every single one of her teachers and professors had said, a natural born leader. Some of her teachers had said this with admiration coloring their tone, and others had said it in a ‘your daughter really needs to stop getting the entire class to break into song in the middle of third period’ kind of way, but either way, they had all been in agreement.
She took the bus to camp so she would be less inclined to run off in the middle of it, and she went to the main building to sign in, which she was informed would be hence forth called ‘command center.’ She refrained from rolling her eyes.
She accepted her key and went off to find her dorm with her yellow duffle bag resting on her hip. Since they were all adults, they weren’t making them sleep in groups of twenty or so, and were instead grouped into fours. Jamie’s cabin was number five, which was her lucky number, and so far the only good omen she had gotten from this place.
She knocked before she pushed the cabin door open. Two of her three bunkmates were already there, setting up their beds. A redhead with striking green eyes and a petite brunette with springy hair and a gorgeous smattering of freckles. Jamie smiled at the two of them and they smiled back.
“Hey! My name is Lily,” The redhead held out her hand, bold and assertive. Jamie didn’t think she was in much need of a leadership camp either. “This here is my best friend, Mary.”
“Lily and Mary, it’s nice to meet you both. I’m Jamie.” She pulled her duffle off her shoulder and claimed the open bottom bunk. “Are you best mates in the camp sense, or have you met before today?”
Mary laughed, “Best friends since we were eleven. I dragged Lily along to this camp because I’m incapable of leaving home without her.”
“And it sounded like fun!” Lily added, looking back at her curly haired friend. “Did you know that this camp has a ropes course?” She asked, turning back to Jamie.
“A rope course? And that sounds like fun to you?”
“Of course, it does!”
“Wait until we’re actually on the ropes course,” Mary chuckled, “Lily is afraid of heights.” She tilted her head toward Jamie and raised her brows.
“I’m not afraid of heights,” Lily argued. “I simply… do not… like them.”
“Right.” Mary laughed.
Rooming with best friends might not be the best case scenario, as they already had someone to pair off with for all the group activities they were bound to do over the next week. They had a fourth roommate yet, so Jamie would reserve her pessimistic judgment until then. In the meantime, Lily and Mary seemed like nice people who she could eat meals with if nothing else.
“There’s also a lake,” Lily apparently still found the need to explain why she thought this camp would be fun. “And the weather is supposed to be brilliant this week. Sunny and warm!”
“I’m here for the seminars and workshops, not for the lake.” Mary said.
“You can be here for both.” Lily shrugged. “And, as much as I love you, I’m here for the arts and crafts, camp food and fun activities.”
“Arts and crafts is an activity. And this is a camp for adults, do you really think-“
Lily cut Mary off with a scoff. She reached into her pocket and pulled out her phone. “If you think I didn’t check before I agreed to come, then you have another thing coming, MacDonald.” She turned her phone out so it was facing Mary, and Jamie a bit. Jamie was able to see colorful pictures of string bracelets, painted pottery, and she couldn’t tell what else.
“Well then,” Mary shook her head. “I hope you get to live out your summer camp dreams.”
“Thank you.” Lily nodded, looking rather smug. It was a look that worked for Lily. Her cheeks took on a dusting of pink, her green eyes grew brighter, and she sat up taller. Jamie turned to her duffle to avoid being caught ogling.
There was a knock on the door and the three girls turned in unison.
“Hello, I’m Emma Vanity. I guess I’m your fourth.” She gave a sharp wave and then looked at the three taken beds before her eyes fell onto the unclaimed top bunk above Jamie.
“I’m Mary and this is Lily,” Mary pointed at Lily, who offered a bright smile.
“And I’m Jamie Potter.”
“Potter?” Emma’s brow shot up. “As in Potions by Potter? Are your parents Fleamont and Euphemia Potter?”
“It’s a fairly common last name,” Jamie shrugged. She wouldn’t have added her last name if she had thought someone would recognize it.
“Right,” Emma laughed and dropped her bag to the ground. “Well, either way, I’m sure that you are a greatperson to share a bunk with.” She knew who Jamie was, that was clear.
“Mary’s mother was a circus performer if that interests anyone.” Lily had pulled out a bag of jelly candies and tore one in half with her front teeth. Jamie smiled at her appreciatively.
“Does she still perform?”
“No, she retired when I started school.” Mary said. “But she does teach trapeze classes down at the local leisure center.”
“They’re great fun.” Lily nodded. “Should we go and find ourselves some lunch?”
“I hope you know that they aren’t going to serve bad camp food.” Mary pushed herself off Lily’s bed. “Are you two coming with us?”
Emma looked at Jamie, and since Jamie had no desire to be alone with Emma just then, she smiled at Lily and nodded. “Sure. I’m always ready to eat.”
“I’ll come too,” Emma nodded. “I’ve already memorized the layout of the camp, so you can all follow me.” And then she was walking back toward the door.
Lily, who had just proven herself to be very familiar with the camp, was looking at Emma’s retreating figure with raised brows, but she didn’t say anything and just hopped off her bed.
“Off we go then,” Mary bit her bottom lip and followed Lily. Jamie closed the door behind them.
The sun was out, and it was warm, which Jamie hadn’t fully appreciated before Lily had told her that they could expect this weather to last all week. And she hadn’t known there was a lake. That hadn’t been on her list of fun summer activities she wanted to do with Sirius, but she hadn’t been a beach in a while, and while she was sure the beach on this random camp lake wasn’t brilliant, it would be nice.
Especially if Lily was also there to talk it up.
oOo
Jamie gravitated toward Lily over the next couple of days. At first she thought it was because the other girl’s positive attitude was contagious, and while it was, that wasn’t the sole reason.
Jamie had developed a little bit of a crush.
Except not really, because Jamie had never once developed a ‘little’ crush in her life. It took exactly one day for her to realize that she was already deciding how the two of them would find time for each other after they left camp. Two days in and she had decided that their first pet would be a short haired cat named Mr. Tums, preferable all black.
Three days in and she was almost certain that she was in love.
Not in love in love, she understood that was ridiculous.
No, on day three, she was simply falling in love.
It would be a few more days until she was actually in love.
Lily had her shoulder length hair in twin braids today. Whisps of baby hairs framing her face and she kept reaching up to brush them away from her eyes, which only drew more attention to her eyes and her hair and all the other parts of her face that Jamie couldn’t stop staring at.
And at the moment, she was wearing a bloody bikini as she sat on the towel next to Jamie’s on the small beach the camp had to offer. A bikini.
Jamie was doing everything she could to ignore the bikini, but it was there, and showing off every soft curve and gentle swoop of Lily Evans’ body. Jamie was in a t-shirt and boardshorts, because she couldn’t possibly exist in the space next to Lily Evans wearing anything less than this and keep the ability to speak.
Not that her ability to speak was getting her far. Lily was doing most of the talking.
“What do you think?” Lily reached out and nudged Jamie on the shoulder, her bubblegum pink nails scraping lightly on the sleeve of Jamie’s t-shirt.
The quirk in Lily’s brow let Jamie know that she had missed something. Keeping her clothes on may have left her with the ability to speak, but Lily wearing that bikini had hindered her ability to listen. She’d been so focused on not staring at Lily that she hadn’t remembered to pay attention to what she was saying.
“What do I think about what again?” Jamie asked, not bothering to pretend that she had heard Lily. The knowing smile on Lily’s face should have made Jamie a bit self-conscious, but she liked how smug Lily looked knowing the effect she had on Jamie. She also wanted Lily to know that she liked her, especially since Lily had not acted as though knowing made her even the slightest bit uncomfortable.
“I was asking for your opinion one what we should do this evening. I want to watch the sunset over the lake, but I don’t think I can stay down here until then. I’ll fry. So should we go to the craft cabin and make some more bracelets,” She held up her rope bracelet covered wrist and shook it, “Or should we have an early dinner?”
“Don’t we have a class to go to before dinner?” Jamie asked, looking out at the water after briefly glancing in Lily’s direction.
“I didn’t sign up for anything. Did you?”
“Probably not.” Jamie shrugged. “Mary isn’t upset with you for ditching her?”
Lily snorted. “I’m hardly ditching her. Besides, she knew I wasn’t going to be signing up for anything that wasn’t required. I came for the crafts and the beach. And to share a bunk with her.” She was smiling at Jamie, she could feel it aimed at the side of her head.
“Alright, well then, I think we should stay down here for a while longer and then go and get some dinner. I didn’t really enjoy the bracelet making.”
“You’re just upset that I’m better at it than you.”
“No.” Jamie shook her head. “I can honestly say that I’m not upset because you’re better than me. I’m upset because I can not figure out how to do it at all. All five attempts turned into a tangled knot of colorful string and heartbreak.”
“You picked out great colors,” Lily had her lips pressed together when Jamie mustered up the fortitude needed to face her. She used all the strength she had to keep her gaze on Lily’s face and then let out a huff and laid back on her towel.
“Thanks a million.”
“Of course.” She reached out and patted the back of Jamie’s hand, her bubblegum pink nails drawing Jamie’s eye. “If we’re going to stay for a while more, I should put on more sunscreen.”
Jamie reached for the bag on her right and handed it to Lily and then shut her eyes. She couldn’t watch Lily put on sunscreen. She knew that she wouldn’t handle that well. Especially not when Lily seemed to be in a mind to tease the shit out of Jamie. Which Jamie knew she deserved after the entirely unsubtle way she had told Lily and Mary about her ex-girlfriend. She had blushed immediately after saying it and then muttered about needing a restroom.
Lily hadn’t brought up any exes at all, but she had followed Jamie on Instagram the first night, and it didn’t take a whole lot of work to figure out that Lily also represented a letter or two from the alphabet.
Jamie bit down on the tip of her tongue and wondered how long she would need to keep her eyes closed before it would be safe to open them.
She heard the cap of the sunscreen pop open and started counting, figuring three minutes to be ample time. She took the time to take a few deep breaths, have a few imaginary conversations with Sirius where he called her a dumbass, whacked her over the head and told her to make her move, and then tried to clear her head of any and all nonsense.
“Where do you head back to after this week?” Lily asked, and Jamie almost opened her eyes.
“Winchester. My brother and I are staying with our parents for the summer, and we have a lot of plans. This camp actually threw a bit of a wrench in our plans, but da wanted me to come here.”
“He didn’t want your brother to come?”
Jamie snorted. “Can you imagine? I mean, da did ask him if he wanted to, but Sirius is very… anti-group activities.”
“What plans were ruined?” Jamie turned her head and opened her eyes, figuring the sun screening was done with now.
It was not.
Lily was rubbing it into her shoulders, her hands moving slowly and her nails contrasting sharply with the pale tone of her skin.
Jamie’s mouth went dry and she tried to swallow.
Lily’s brow went up and Jamie cleared her throat. “Ballet.”
“What?”
“The ballet. I got Sirius to agree to go to a few different shows with me, which he never does, and I’m missing one of them to be here.”
The tip of Lily’s pink tongue peeked out from between her lips and Jamie bit down on her own tongue. What was it about this girl that had Jamie acting like a randy, seventeen-year-old, boy?
“The ballet? I didn’t picture you-“
“I’m actually a ballerina.”
Lily blinked her big green eyes and brought her shoulder up to her chin.
“I mean, I saw the pictures of you with your dance bag, but I guess I just…” Jamie hadn’t posted any recent pics of her in anything dance related, and so she smirked at the knowledge that Lily had been snooping.
“You didn’t picture me as a ballerina? What kind of dancer did you think I was?”
“Honestly? I thought you were a theater dancer.”
Jamie chuckled. “I mean, I have dabbled in the theater.”
“Dabbled? I think it’s you use of words like ‘dabbled’ that made me think theater actually.”
“Dabbled is a normal word.”
“Sure, and it made me think ‘theater kid.’” Lily turned back to the bottle of sunscreen and picked it up, squeezing some onto her hand before she angled one of her legs and started rubbing her hands together. The point of her toe, the angle of her head, it was all deliberate. Jamie knew that it was all deliberate, but she didn’t care. She watched on bated breath as Lily started working the sunscreen into her leg. She started at her upper thigh and worked her way down to the ankle, slowly, making sure to cover every inch of skin.
“How long have you been a ballerina?”
Jamie had to unclench her jaw to answer. “Since I was about five.”
“And when did you dabble in the theater?” Lily’s voice was even and normal, like she wasn’t currently putting on a show for Jamie. She should have kept her eyes shut. She should close her eyes right now, but she knew that she wasn’t going to.
“Um… I think the first musical I was in, I was eight? Mum was helping out with…” She trailed off as Lily angled her other leg and started on that thigh. “Mum was helping with costumes. It was just a small local production.”
“Of what?”
“Fiddler on the Roof.” Jamie hoped that she was answering Lily’s questions, but she really wasn’t paying attention to what either of them were saying. For the first time since she’d seen Lily in this stupid bikini, she was allowing herself to look at her. She was drinking it in.
Jamie was pretty sure that Lily said something else, and half of her brain heard it, though it took a while to get it all pieced together. “I’ve seen Fiddler on the Roof. Mary was a theater kid, so I’ve actually seen a lot of musicals.”
“Good.” Jamie nodded, even though she knew that wasn’t really a top notch response.
Lily picked up the bottle of sunscreen and popped the cap open again, and Jamie could feel the pop in the back of her teeth. She watched Lily tighten her hand around the bottle, squeezing more onto her open palm.
“I might need your help with my back-“
About two seconds before Jamie would have had a heart attack and passed away right there on the small camp beach in the middle of nowhere, the top of the bottle came off and, with Lily still squeezing the bottle, the sunscreen went everywhere. It splattered all over Lily’s lap, chest and towel. It got on Jamie too, a large glob landing on the lens of her glasses.
They both froze for a minute before Jamie looked up at Lily from her one clear lens. Lily’s cheeks were bright red and she was looking at the still dripping bottle as though it had purposefully ruined her plans to send Jamie to an early grave.
The building tension crumbled like a saltine cracker.
“That’s what you get,” Jamie said, reaching over and wiping a large glob off of Lily’s nose. Then she started laughing as Lily turned to look at her. Her cheeks stayed red, but she cracked a grin. “That was totally deserved!”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Lily shook her head and dropped the offending bottle. She started smearing and wiping at all the excess sunscreen, wiping her hands on her towel to get it off. “I wasn’t doing anything.”
Jamie started laughing harder. “You’re a liar.”
Lily bit down on her bottom lip, still shaking her head. “I don’t know what you mean.”
“You most certainly do know what I mean, and now you’ve made a mess of yourself.”
“The cap broke! I don’t know why you’re telling me I deserve it.”
Jamie reached over and swiped at another glob at Lily’s shoulder. “Sure, Evans.” She whipped her hand so it landed somewhere in the grass and then got another glob from Lily’s hair. “So that’s just how you normally put on sunscreen?”
“Of course it is.”
“I can’t wait to see how your normally put on your pajamas tonight.”
Lily’s face went a shade or two darker and Jamie laughed again.
“You know what, if I was putting it on… a certain sort of way, it was only because you were looking at me-“
“I hadn’t been looking at you!” Jamie took her glasses off and carefully went about cleaning them. “I had very deliberately not been looking at you. You waited until I was looking at you.”
Lily was quiet until Jamie looked over at her, having to squint in order to see the look on her face. She put her glasses back on to confirm that she was looking smug. She was. “Okay, but then you couldn’t take your eyes off me.”
“Have you ever heard the phrase, in for a penny, in for a pound?”
Lily narrowed her brow in confusion. “I have.”
“I’ve only ever had fancied three people in my life, including yourself,” Lily sat up straighter and Jamie felt her cheeks heat but shook her head. Lily had already known that Jamie fancied her. “Yes, go and head a preen over it.”
“I am flattered,” Lily, still covered in globs of sunscreen, waved her hair back over her shoulder with one of her hands. Then she looked at Jamie expectantly.
Jamie sucked in a sharp breath through her nose and released it all at once. “Where do you live, Evans? And how far is it from Winchester?”
“And why do you ask?”
“Because I’ve a feeling that we’ll have some unfinished business come Friday.”
And then Lily laughed, and Jamie felt it all the way to the tips of her toes.
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The Interview - Tool
How it all began... Poor JJ. 
CW: subtle manipulation, implied kidnapping, implied use of the machine, missing person. 
[Tool’s Masterlist]
The Mechanic examined the young person standing in front of him. His last intern hadn’t worked out. They had been just a bit too self-confident. A little too supported. In actuality, he hadn’t pushed them that far, and yet they had left at even the slightest pressure.
No problem. There was always a stream of bright faced graduate students looking for internship placement. An old friend of his worked in the college advisor’s office and knew what he was looking for. Disconnected, easily missed, middle to low grades.
At least, that had been the template until now. His methods were getting better, the process being simplified and streamlined. The Mechanic was confident that his newest design would be the strongest yet, and no longer would need such easily manipulated subjects.
Hence the newest applicant that had been funneled to him. President’s list, letters of recommendation, certificates of workshops and seminars. The exact opposite of what he had used up until now. It would be harder to cover his tracks, but more of a challenge. A stronger example to get people’s attention.
He scanned the portfolio once more, making a soft search sound. Jacob Jackson.
“Nice to meet you Mr. Jackson.”
JJ smiled slightly as he reached out to shake the man’s hand. “You can drop the Mr. part. Just call me JJ, or Jackson, if you want.”
The Mechanic nodded and shook. “Nice to meet you, Jackson.” He gestured for the other to sit while he settled down at his desk. JJ was halfway down to one of the chairs before the Mechanic cut in suddenly and with authority.
“Not there.”
JJ froze, looking up at him with wide eyes.
Such expressive eyes. And already subconsciously obedient.
“Apologies,” the Mechanic said, feigning embarrassment. “One of the chairs is a bit broken. Wouldn’t want to you to hurt yourself.”
A little more wary, JJ sat in the other chair. Odd, that a man with this much recognition in his field would have a broken chain in his office. But JJ figured that he had fallen out of favor after he had stopped publishing a few years ago. Or at least, that was the only reason they could come up with for the lack or information that they could find on the man.
Little things pricked at the edges of their mind, but JJ pushed them away. Their intuition was, admittedly not great. Everyone said that they were too naive, gave people too much credit. It took them a while to notice the toxic people in their life, and far longer to do much about it – honestly Charlotte usually had to clue them in. So yeah, they didn’t really trust their gut anymore.
Besides, their advisor had personally recommended this man, insisted in setting up a meeting as soon as possible.
“So, what perked your interest in my internship position?”
JJ smiled, putting on his most confident smile. “I’m looking at focusing on biomedical technologies, and my advisor just couldn’t stop singing your praises. He also mentioned that you had your internship open up unexpectedly, and I was hoping to get placed as soon as possible.”
The Mechanic smiled. He would be buying that friend the finest scotch he could get his hands on. Maybe even offer them a free pet if they had one in mind.
“Yes, I had asked them to keep an eye out for the perfect applicant. I have strict requirements.” Flipping through portfolio – how cute, he thought to himself, all the docs in a university branded stationary.
“All of your papers are impeccable. How come another internship hasn’t accepted you already? Are you still waiting to hear back?” he said with a hint of annoyance. He didn’t want this kid shopping around, didn’t want others to be trying to contact them.
JJ blushed slightly. “The internship doesn’t technically start until the end of next semester, and no where is accepting applications yet. I just, really wanted to start early and get more ground under me. Just a little leg up.”
Was this dude offended that he might be considering other offers? JJ cringed internally. Was that a red flag? He didn’t know if it was. The Advisor had talked this up as an exclusive offer, and JJ didn’t want to accentually put his foot in his mouth – like usual.
The Mechanic noticed the slight shift in posture, the smallest bounce of the kid’s leg. Nervous, if just slightly. As they should be. He put the portfolio to the side.
“I only have space for one intern at a time. We would be spending a considerable amount of time together, so we should be able to get along. Tell me about yourself, about your life outside of school.”
JJ paused. They, they didn’t really have a big life outside of school. Family was small, and in another state. Friends were also heavily involved in school. There was only so much time, and they spent most of it with something that at related to academics at least a little.
Internally, the Mechanic grinned. Perfect. No one to miss them.
~
University Student Counsel President Jacob Jackson was reported missing earlier this week after friends and teachers were unable to contact him after he did not attend the meeting last Wednesday afternoon. Charlotte Han, Vice President voiced her concerns after not being in contact with Jackson for three days prior to the meeting.
“It’s just not like them. I had this feeling that something was wrong, but I didn’t know for sure.”
Jackson was extremely active on campus, founding the Engineering Club as well as Treasurer for Phi Theta Alpha Honor Society on top of his duties as President.  
Jackson is 5’10, auburn hair and light blue eyes. Last reported sighting was Saturday afternoon around University Square. If you have any information, please contact one of the numbers listed below.
The Mechanic folded the newspaper and tucked it away. He knew exactly where Jacob Jackson was – two rooms away restrained to a table. And that is where his intern would stay until they had proven him correct. That is was possible to take someone – anyone – and strip every last bit of control they had. Subservience was the goal, and the Mechanic was determined to prove himself a genius.
~
tagging crew: @unicornscotty @as-a-matter-of-whump @starnight-whump @whump-me-all-night-long @whump-it @rippedjeansandfadeddreams @valkyrie-whump @cupcakes-and-pain @whole-and-apart-and-between @misspelledwitch @fanmanga1357-blog @jo-doe-seeking-inspo @just-a-raccoon-in-a-party-hat @thehopelessopus
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imlovethomassanders · 4 years ago
Text
Eyes are the Windows to the Soul(mates) - Chapter 4
You can also read on ao3
Thank you to @strongindependentcheesecake for beta reading
This work is complete, and new chapters will be added everyday until completion:
Chapter 1 - Chapter 2 - Chapter 3 - Chapter 5 (FINAL)
Summary: The lucky few who have a soulmate are born with heterochromia, with their left eye being the color of their soulmate’s eyes and their right eye being their own color. Not only was Virgil one of the lucky few to have a soulmate, but he was given four. His left eye changed colors every time he blinked, rotating between his four soulmates’ eye colors. His rotating eye colors caused him to be a bit of an outcast growing up, but when he finally leaves for college, things start to fall into place. This is the journey of five strangers finding each other.
Pairings: DLAMP with background Remile
Warnings: None I believe
Words: 3924
Taglist:  @touchstarvedvirgil @lamp-calm-sanders @ninjago2020 @confinesofpersonalknowledge @secret-novelisthost18 @phander-sides @sherlock-lives-on-bakerstreet @bookbingingproblem @viana-dascolli @sharktryingtofly @crofters-n-falsehoods @turnedthefreakingfrogsgay @little-kat07 @romano-hottopic​
Logan had been too worried about Roman and his eyes to talk to Patton and Virgil. It had been two weeks since they last video called, and Patton and Virgil were getting worried. For the first few days, Logan said he was sick. Then he had a lot of homework, then he had a migraine, then he had to study, then he had to help Emile with studying, or whatever excuse he could think of. He knew Patton and Virgil didn't buy it, but he was grateful they didn't push him.
Patton: How are you feeling today sweetie? Virgil: think you can talk to us today? Logan: I'm in the apartment elevator. As soon as I get home I will turn on my laptop and call you. Patton: !!!! :D <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
Emile wasn't home yet, so Logan assumed he was still out with Remy. He went to his bedroom and opened his laptop, and a video call request popped up as soon as Logan came online.
"Hello-"
"LOGAN YOUR EYES!!" Patton exclaimed, Virgil wincing next to him. "Who?? When?? Where??"
Um, a couple weeks ago," Logan admitted. "We... had a bit of a rough start."
"You okay, Logan?" Virgil asked.
"Yes, things are getting better. We actually have a date tomorrow."
Patton squealed. "Oh, when can we meet them?? I can't wait to meet them!!"
Logan texted Roman that they were excited to meet him. Even though Virgil waited to meet Logan in person, that wait was only a couple days. Since Patton and Virgil probably wouldn't be able to meet Roman in person until the end of the semester, they decided to video call tomorrow.
Logan got to Roman's apartment a little before noon, and Remy was already gone. Roman said he wasn't too upset about being kicked out, since he got to use this as an excuse to go see Emile. Logan remembered Emile being particularly giddy as he left.
Logan was surprised when Roman pulled him into a hug as soon as the door opened.
"Hello," he said, muffled against Roman's chest. He prayed his cheeks weren't as red as they felt.
"It's wonderful to see you," Roman said as he let go of Logan. "I made tea. Do you like tea?"
He started talking again before Logan got a chance to respond.
"Oh, I'm so excited. You're going to love these. Which ones do you want to watch first?" Roman asked as he shoved a mug into Logan's hands.
"Show me your favorites."
Roman beamed.
A relaxing afternoon passed into evening. Roman and Logan had spent much of the time poking fun at inconsistencies in the movies, or Logan holding back laughter as Roman dramatically sang along to the songs.
Logan's phone buzzed in his pocket.
"Patton and Virgil are almost back to their dorm. They will be ready to call us when they arrive."
"Oh, wonderful!" Roman said.
Their moods had been so playful, it was easy to notice Roman's mood shift as his leg started shaking.
"Are you okay?" Logan asked.
"I'm fine," Roman said, but winced when his voice cracked.
"There is no need to worry," Logan said as he pulled his laptop out of his bag and Roman paused the movie. "I know they are very excited to meet you."
Roman gave him a grateful smile as Logan clicked the "Accept Call" button.
The few moments it took for the video to load dragged on for what felt like forever before the image of two men appeared on screen, one with pale skin and dark hair and the other covered in freckles with golden curls.
Roman's breath hitched at how absolutely gorgeous they were.
"Ohmygosh! Hello!!" the curly one exclaimed with a giant grin. "I'm Patton! It's so so wonderful to finally meet you!"
"Hey," the other one said, not nearly as energetic. "I'm Virgil."
"I'm Roman Kingsley. I'm so glad to finally meet my soulmates," Roman said as he flashed a grin. "And may I just say, that you two are two of the most beautiful beings I have ever been blessed enough to see."
Patton squealed in delight as he grabbed Virgil's hand while Virgil's cheeks grew a dark shade of red.
Conversation followed easily for them, and all of Roman's worries melted away. Roman glanced over to see Logan looking at him with eyes softer than he'd ever seen before. Roman smiled back and took Logan's hand and the two turned their attention back towards Patton and Virgil.
They were all so incredible. Roman swore he was in love.
*
"Logan?" Roman asked. He was laying on the couch with his head resting on Logan's lap. It was late Saturday night, and the two were exhausted after spending most of the day unpacking boxes. Roman and Emile were switching places so they could each live with their soulmates (Emile made sure he and Logan kept in touch - plus, double dates with them were now a common occurrence).
"Hm?" Logan hummed as he ran his fingers through Roman's hair.
"How long until winter break?"
"Thirty more days, dear."
It had been almost two months since Roman and Logan first met. And since Roman had met Patton and Virgil, too, he had been counting the days until he would finally get to see them in person.
"That's too long."
"I know."
Roman reached for Logan's hand that wasn't in his hair, but he didn't take it. Instead he just held his hand out for Logan to grab. Roman had been prepared to move at a fairly fast pace once he met his soulmates, but Logan clearly wanted to take it slow. So Roman was patient and let Logan set the pace. It took a couple weeks for Logan to hold his hand in public, a couple weeks more for Logan to cuddle with him. Some days, Logan didn't feel like being touched at all, so they'd sit in the same room on different chairs, just enjoying each other's company.
"Not that I'm not content with you," Roman quickly added. Logan opened his mouth to speak but Roman didn't notice. "I'm so unbelievably happy when I'm with you. Though I'm excited to meet Pat and Virge, you make me so much happier than I ever imagined I could be-"
"I know, Roman. I'm excited to see them, too."
Roman smiled up at him as he squeezed Logan's hand.
"...You're gorgeous," Roman said softly as he gazed up at Logan. Logan's face tinted pink as he glanced away.
"I-... you-... Thank you," Logan managed to stammer as he looked back at Roman, letting go of his hand just to run his hand down the side of Roman's face. "...May I kiss you?"
Roman's eyes widened as he sat up. "Are you sure? Because if so, then yes. Absolutely yes. But I don't want you to feel rushed or-"
"I want to, Roman," Logan assured, a tad embarrassed. Roman gave him a gentle smile as he placed a hand on Logan's cheek. He leaned in slightly but let Logan close the gap. Roman sighed happily as his eyes fluttered closed. He went to raise his other hand to Logan's cheek but Logan' separated, eyes wide and cheeks red.
"Are you okay?"
Logan nodded. "That was... really nice."
Roman smiled.
"Can I... Can I kiss you again?"
Roman nodded as he placed his hands back on Logan's cheeks. This time Logan placed his hand on the back of Roman's neck to pull him just a bit closer, not that Roman minded. Logan was the one to pull back first again, but only for a couple seconds before he pulled Roman back to him.
Roman kept the kiss slow and soft as Logan's hands held tightly on him, firm grip trying to pull them as close together as he could. Roman moved his arms around Logan's waist, aiding in pushing together. Soft gasps were escaping them both as their chests were pressed together.
The next time Logan pulled away, he just wrapped his arms around Roman and buried his head into the crook of Roman's neck. Roman smiled as he placed a kiss onto the side of Logan's head while rubbing soothing circles on his back.\
"Roman, I... I think that I... I0" Logan huffed out a frustrated sigh as he struggled to finish his sentence, his grasp around Roman tightening.
"I know, Logan," Roman assured him with a smile. "I know. Me, too."
*
Roman groaned and shut his laptop. He had done enough school work for tonight. Probably.
He ran his hands over his face. His eyes stung slightly from staring at a bright screen for so long in the dark room. Glancing at the clock, he was surprised to see it was already nine o'clock. Logan had gone out to attend some seminar for extra credit, not that he needed it. With Roman no longer tapping away at the keyboard, he noticed the light pattering of rain.
He pushed his chair away from his desk and fell onto his bed, reaching for his phone. He didn't know when Logan would be back, but he hoped it would be soon. The apartment got lonely when he wasn't around.
Roman was about to text the group chat to see how Patton and Virgil were doing when he got a phone call from the emo nightmare himself.
Surprised, but in no way complaining, he happily tapped the answer button.
"Hello, my darling. How are-"
"Roman," Virgil gasped out, and Roman was immediately worried. He sat up in the bed, mind racing with what could be wrong. Was he hurt? "I'm sorry. This is so stupid, but Patton's not at the dorm and- Oh, it's getting late I shouldn't have called I'm sorry-"
"Virgil," Roman interrupted. Virgil was already breathing heavy - Roman didn't want him to work himself up even more. "What's wrong, dove?"
"It's stupid," Virgil muttered.
"Virgil."
"...It's storming. And thunderstorms make my anxiety spike."
As if on cue, Roman heard a loud clap of thunder in the background followed by a sharp intake of breath from Virgil.
"That's not stupid," Roman said, affection dripping in his voice. "Just focus on my voice, dove. Follow my breathing."
Roman took a few deep breaths, listening as Virgil followed, and his breathing eventually grew steadier.
"Perfect. You're doing wonderful."
Roman led Virgil through breathing a bit longer until Virgil's breathing was back to normal.
"Thanks, Roman," Virgil said quietly.
"Of course, darling. I'll always be here for you, to protect or comfort. Whatever ails you, I'll work to destroy it."
"Sap."
Roman couldn't help but smile. The sound of rustling blankets came through the phone.
"...Hey, Ro?"
"Hmm?"
"Can you, um, sing for me?" Virgil asked quietly. A large grin grew on Roman's face, his heart burning with so much love for the man on the other end of the phone that it almost hurt.
"Of course I can."
Roman started to sing softly all the love songs he knew, anything he thought could even begin to portray how much he was already in love with him.
"I wish you were here," Virgil said, his soft voice making it evident he was getting sleepy. "So your voice wasn't muddled by the phone."
"I wish I was there, too. To hold you and let you know that as long as I'm around, nothing is going to harm you. Not even thunder."
Virgil chuckled softly.
"I wish you could hold me."
"And I will, love," Roman said earnestly. "As soon as I can."
Virgil yawned.
"Sing me to sleep?"
"Anything you need, Virgil."
*
Fluffball <3: Everyone get on video call!!
Roman shook Logan's shoulder, who was sitting by him, to get his attention. He showed Logan the text and Logan grabbed his laptop.
"Hey sweeties!" Patton said the same time Virgil said "'Sup."
"Hello, dearests," Roman said the same time Logan said "Salutations."
"So we all agreed to get together the first couple weeks before Christmas so we could still go see our families on the holidays, right?" Patton started, smile wide in excitement.
"Yes, Patton." Logan said.
"Well, I found a place in my home town we could rent for those weeks. So we can spend the time by ourselves instead of making our schedule around my parents," Patton said sheepishly. "If we all pitch in, I know we could afford it."
"That sounds incredible, Pat," Roman answered with a large smile. Patton's grin grew wider.
"I'll email y'all the details."
*
Roman was shaking his leg as Logan drove. He was finally, finally, after far too many months, on his way to see Patton and Virgil.
"There's nothing to worry about," Logan assured him. "They are both very fond of you. Just... be prepared for a really big Patton hug when you walk through the door."
Roman was looking forward to it.
Roman knew Patton and Virgil almost as well as he knew Logan due to the constant texts and video calls, though that could never compare to finally being able to see his darling soulmates in person.
Logan held Roman's hand as they walked up the path to the front door. He didn't have time to knock before the door flew open and Logan was pulled inside, yanking Roman in with him.
"Roman!!" Roman heard someone shout before they threw themself into his arms. "Oh my gosh it's so wonderful to finally meet you in person!"
Roman pulled back to see Patton looking up at him, absolutely beaming. Out of the corner of his eye he noticed Virgil and Logan hugging while exchanging "I missed you"s, but right now all he wanted was to focus on the little puffball in his arms.
"Hello, dear," Roman said with a large smile as he pulled Patton back to him. Patton let out a loud squeal of laughter as Roman picked him up and spun him around.
"I can not express how ecstatic I am to finally hold you," Roman said as he put Patton down, taking the opportunity to cover his face in kisses. "My dear, my darling, my love, I've been waiting for this day for as long as I can remember, and oh, how gorgeous you are in person."
Patton's face was very red as Roman finished talking, Logan and Virgil watching in amusement. Roman panicked for a moment, thinking he had gone too far, but Patton just threw his arms back around Roman and pressed kisses to his cheek.
"You're so sweet! I'm so happy you're here," Patton said as he pulled back.
Virgil gently placed a hand on Patton's arm, and he let out a little "oh" before stepping aside, turning his attention to Logan.
"Logan! I've missed you!" Patton exclaimed as he threw his arms around Logan, but quickly pulled away once he remembered Logan's occasional aversion to being touched. But Logan wrapped his arms around Patton, and Patton smiled before hugging him again.
"I've missed you, too."
"Uh, hey, Roman," Virgil said a bit sheepishly as Patton turned to Logan.
"Hello, Virgil,"  Roman said with a grin as he stepped closer. There were a couple of moments of silence, then Virgil threw his arms around Roman and Roman quickly reciprocated, placing a hand on Virgil's back and pressing him against his chest.
"It's lovely to finally see you, darling," Roman whispered as Virgil took a shaky breath and hid his face in the crook of Roman's neck. "I'm here now. It's okay."
"We're all together!" Patton squealed happily as he wrapped his arms around the two of them, and Roman felt Virgil smile against his skin.
Roman gave Logan an expectant smile, holding out his hand for Logan to take. And when he did, Roman pulled him into the group hug.
"It's really nice to finally be with all of you," Virgil muttered against Roman, voice cracking just slightly. Roman tightened his arm around him.
"It is," Patton beamed. "I'm so happy."
*
Roman groaned as he stood up off the couch and stretched his arms up, hearing his bones pop in the process. The four of them had gone out to eat that night, and it had been pure magic. It wasn't a particularly grand place, just a small diner around the corner, but the four of them being in the same place for the first time was just wonderful. Roman could put his arm around Patton, or reach over to take Logan or Virgil's hands. The way the four of them clicked together so naturally made Roman feel like he was walking on air.
Oh, how lucky he was to be blessed with soulmates.
When they got home, they had put a movie on the TV. But after a long day of travelling, Logan and Roman didn't last half the movie. When Roman woke up, Virgil had also fallen asleep and Patton was gone, but Roman could hear humming in the kitchen.
"Oh, hello, sweetie," Patton said as Roman walked in. "I'm making tea, would you like some?"
Roman nodded as he reached out towards Patton but hesitated. Patton then gently grabbed his arm and pulled Roman towards him.
"You don't have to worry about me. I always want cuddles," Patton sighed happily as he rested his head on Roman's chest. "You don't have to ask."
"But what if one day you don't-"
"Then I'll make sure to tell you. Though there's never been a day in my life I didn't want hugs."
Roman rested his cheek on Patton's fluffy hair and sighed. "I... I'm honestly sort of relieved. Obviously I'm not upset about Logan's boundaries, but..."
"You can tell me, honey," Patton urged as he tightened his grip around Roman. "It's alright."
"It's just... I've been fighting my insecurities for as long as I can remember. And physical affection just makes me feel better, I guess. It makes me feel secure and wanted," Roman said, voice getting softer from embarrassment. "And when I feel like I need it but Logan doesn't want to be touched, I just keep my mouth shut on how I'm feeling to not make him feel guilty."
"I get it," Patton said as he stepped back to cup Roman's face. "Virgil's the same way. Less often than Logan, but the same.
But I don't think you should hide how you're feeling from Logan. He'd feel bad you felt the need to hide from him. I just know he would want to know so he could find a way to help you. He loves you, Roman."
Roman huffed a bit as he pulled away from Patton to sit on the counter.
"But I don't want him to think I'm trying to pressure him."
"I know, I know. Roman... I get sad often. For no real reason in particular, sometimes. And physical affection helps me feel better, too. And just like Logan with you, Virgil is usually more than happy to help me. But for a while I, too, felt like I needed to keep it to myself because I didn't want to bother him."
"And?"
"He figured out, and he told me to tell him whenever I'm feeling sad. And we've found other ways. I'll sit next to him and we'll watch cat videos, or he'll show me his favorite music. Sometimes he'll say he can handle a little bit of touching and he lets me hold his hand or rest my head on his shoulder. But nothing is going to get better if you keep it to yourself."
Roman ducked his head as Patton gingerly pushed hair away from his face.
"Yeah, you're right," Roman said quietly. Patton pressed a kiss to his cheek. A smile grew on Roman's face. "And one day, we'll all live together, and we'll all balance each other out and love each other in our different ways. We'll never be more than a name call away from all the affection we need. Plus, while I'm here with you, I'll always be more than happy to give you lots and lots of attention."
Patton returned his soft smile as he cupped Roman's cheek. The two gazed at each other for a moment before connecting their lips, pulling the other towards them as close as they could.
The kiss was so incredibly soft. The two had to break apart for a moment just because their smiles grew so big, but they immediately reconnected their lips. It was gentle, just like Patton. Roman couldn't help but melt against him, promising himself that he was going to get as many Patton kisses as he could in his lifetime.
"I don't think I'll be able to handle another semester away from you," Patton said with a melancholy smile as they parted. Roman kissed him.
"Only a couple more years, darling. Then I'll be all yours."
*
Over the following days, Roman had the three of his loves in arms reach at all times. He could finally cuddle Patton against him or wrap Virgil tightly in his arms (and he'd never get tired of holding Logan). But the bliss couldn't last forever, and the day for them to leave for the holidays arrived.
Logan and Patton didn't have a far drive at all considering they were already in their hometown. Virgil had a good few hours, but Roman had to drive to the airport to get home, meaning he had to get up early in the morning and leave significantly sooner than the others.
"I'll see you soon, Specs," Roman said with a sad smile.
Logan met Roman halfway for a kiss. "See you soon."
Patton had been holding back tears all morning. But when Roman pulled him into a tight hug, he couldn't help that a few tears fell down his cheeks.
"Hey now, it's okay, darling. We'll see each other again soon. I lo- I'll miss you."
Patton's eyes widened and Roman tried not to wince at his slip up. But Patton gently placed a hand on Roman's cheek and pulled him down into a kiss.
"I love you," Patton whispered. Roman kissed him again.
"I love you, too."
They shared one more brief kiss before Patton let him go.
"I'll bring your bag out for you," Virgil said and walked out the door before Roman could say anything.
Roman gave one last goodbye to Patton and Logan and followed his other love.
"Call me when you land," Virgil said. "Want to make sure your plane didn't crash."
Virgil put Roman's suitcase in his trunk and slammed it shut. He wasn't looking at Roman.
"And drive safe. I know you like to play your music loud but be careful."
"I will."
"Well, um. I guess this is goodbye," Virgil said, staring at the ground.
"...Please look at me, darling."
Virgil huffed but slowly lifted his head, showing his red cheeks and puffy eyes.
"Oh, my dear," Roman said as Virgil let him pull him into a hug. "It'll be okay. We'll see each other again soon."
"I know," Virgil muttered into Roman's shirt. Virgil pulled away slowly, then placed his hands on Roman's cheeks to pull Roman down into a kiss. Roman pulled Virgil as tightly against him as he could, wishing this didn't have to end.
"I love you," Virgil whispered, surprising Roman. But he smiled.
"I love you, too. So much."
"Call me," Virgil said as he let Roman go.
"I will."
Virgil pressed one more quick kiss to Roman's lips before walking inside. And Roman smiled.
This is going to work out perfectly, he thought.
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juniorgman187 · 4 years ago
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Serpent of Eden (Reid Series - Part 3)
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~ Reader’s one-night-stand with Spencer turns into a year long semester ~
Summary: After a month of smooth sailing, Reader and Spencer finally cross paths on campus and spoiler alert - it’s not pretty. Couple: Fem!Reader x Professor Spencer Reid Category: Angst, Fluff, (eventual) Smut, Series Word Count: 1.7 (ik i promised no small chapters but this ones slightly more spicy and its in preparation for better, longer chapters) Content Warning: Age-gap, teacher student relationship A/N: POV switches from Reader to Spencer indicated by “_ _ _”
PART 2 HERE!
✧・゚: *✧・゚:* 
It was easy to maintain a romantic relationship and to believe that everything was alright when we never had to see each other at school.
What’s harder was being in a professional setting and forcing ourselves to confront the reality that what we were doing was wrong. 
Just plain wrong.
We must’ve lucked out in the first few weeks of our relationship because it was smooth sailing for the entire first month. We’d even gotten into a routine - found our groove, if you will. 
Most often, we would meet at a place far from Hollis, where we knew we wouldn’t run into anyone who would recognize us. There we could just be (y/n) and Spencer; and there I would get lost in the good times and the bliss of the moment to the point of forgetting that we weren’t just (y/n) and Spencer - we were student and teacher, too. Other times, I’d come over to his apartment, but given my living situation, he had never come over to mine. 
It was somewhere around our one-month anniversary when our luck ran out. 
Holly had come into the room while I was finishing (or at least attempting to finish) reading a court case. 
“Are you going to the Promotional FBI Seminar?” She slid a large pamphlet on my desk, never minding the fact that she’d just haphazardly thrown the pamphlet in the spot where my book lied, causing me to lose my place on the page. Though I didn’t outwardly display my frustration, my agitation did grow beneath the surface. 
“What’s that?” I asked her, not out of sincere curiosity, but more so because I wasn’t even really listening to what she’d said before, and I’d pushed the pamphlet out of the way before I even read it. 
“A couple guys from the FBI are coming to talk to us about the job, like all the requirements to be hired, how much it pays - stuff like that.” 
Holly’s voice didn’t make for great background noise, especially when she started rambling while I tried to continue reading. 
“Are you going?” I asked. Again, this wasn’t a sincere question, just a way to make it seem like I was listening. 
“Yeah, and I really want you to come with me. I think you’d like it. You’re really into crime stuff, aren’t you?” 
“Yeah, yeah…” I said in a daze, obviously distracted by my other priorities.
“So you’ll come?”
I should note that I faintly recognized the name and premise of the seminar, but I couldn’t quite place where I remembered it from, and I was far too preoccupied to pay any further attention to the topic, so it slipped out of my mind almost as fast as it entered it. 
It was this moment here where Spencer’s eidetic memory would’ve come in handy. 
You see, the reason I weakly recalled the seminar was because just three days ago, Spencer had told me he was going to be a guest speaker for it. But again - I didn’t remember that, and so without any recollection of this information, I told Holly I’d go just so she’d stop bothering me about it. 
Unbeknownst to me, I’d just agreed to attending my own personal hell. 
I woke the next morning to Holly violently shaking me. 
“(Y/n), we gotta go! We’re so fucking late!”
Still half-asleep, I mumbled, “Huh?”
“The seminar started at 9:42 and it’s 10:36 right now.” 
This was enough to jolt me awake and get me out of bed.
There was just something about the pressure of being late that forced me into a mode where I could get ready in an ungodly short amount of time. I could never get ready that fast unless I was late for something, which makes no sense. 
Holly and I ran from our dorm, through the courtyard, and into the classroom, somehow managing not to trip once on the way there. I was actually quite proud of that. 
I couldn’t tell you if it was our breathlessness, our late departure, our struggle to find open seats, or a combination of the three, but we’d commanded the attention of the entire room - and the attention of someone I had yet to notice, too. 
“There’s a free seat over there. I can sit in the one over here.” Holly told me, suggesting that if we wanted to sit anywhere, we’d have to be separated. I followed her finger to the empty seat, shuffling awkwardly and apologizing profusely to the people I disturbed by approaching. I was so caught up in the hysteria and chaos to even bother looking up at the stage, hindering my ability to meet my impending doom any sooner. 
On the way to my seat, I noticed the copious amounts of notes being taken by virtually every student in the room, so rather than taking any time to look up, I was searching my bag down below me for note taking materials. 
But as they say - third time's a charm. 
After I’d settled into my seat, I finally looked up from the floor and it was then that I was transported back to a month ago - an eerie parallel to this exact moment. 
“Holy shit,” I muttered, earning sneers from the people sitting next to me who I’d clearly disrupted with my profanity. 
“Sorry,” I whispered to them, for I was truly sorry. I just couldn’t help myself. When I saw him, my stomach dropped. I had a feeling he’d already seen me, but I was too disorderly before to notice. 
I did, however, notice how he eyed me from the stage, even doing a double take when we locked eyes. 
“Most of us have done extensive work in areas such as …” His voice faded while my mind swirled.
We have got to stop meeting like this, Spencer. 
Our eye contact was too much for me to handle, so I was the first to break away. Through the entire question-period, I kept my head down to avoid any eye contact I could. 
“Well, that’s all that we have for you today. Before you go, please hand in your applications if you filled them out.” The other lecturer advised. 
I was well on my way out of the room even before he dismissed us, but I was drawn back by the sound of the sentence, “Excuse me, Miss? Could you stay back for a moment?”
I briefly walked backwards before turning on my heels and meeting those eyes that I desperately didn’t want to. 
“I noticed you came in late and I thought you might want to know the information you missed -” Spencer paused to look over his shoulder, noticing his colleague was attending to someone else and therefore, too engaged in that conversation to interfere with ours. 
“(Y/n), what are you doing here?” He asked me in a hushed tone, a stark contrast from his sweet tone from before. 
“I’m so sorry, Spencer. I completely forgot that you were a speaker for this seminar. I didn’t even know I was coming until last night when my roommate asked me to come with her. I would’ve warned you if I knew. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to put you in this position.” 
My apology was sincere seeing as I promised Spencer we would never run into each other. In fact, it was the sole reason we agreed to stay in this relationship - the mutual guarantee that we wouldn’t be put in these situations, but here we were. 
In this fucking situation. 
“No, it’s fine. I was just surprised to see you, that’s all.”
Spencer could tell I was flustered and truly apologetic for my ignorance, and he was almost about to reach out and rub my upper arm comfortingly when his actions were cut short by the looming presence of his fellow guest speaker. 
“Hi there. David Rossi.” He introduced himself by extending his hand into the space between us. “And you are?” 
“(Y/n) (y/l/n).” 
_ _ _
“(Y/n) (y/l/n).” 
It was like watching my worst nightmare come alive. 
If I ever imagined introducing (y/n) to my work family, this certainly wasn’t the plan. I just hoped to God that if Rossi and (y/n) ever met again in the future, he wouldn’t suddenly obtain my eidetic memory and recall her familiar face from this exact moment. 
“Got any questions for us?” Rossi coyly asked her. Once more I prayed to God that his profiling skills hadn’t just improved drastically and that he could sense the tension between the two of us. It almost seemed like he asked that question just to tease her because he knew what was really happening. But then again, that was probably just my paranoia speaking. 
She looked mortified when he asked this, even glancing back at me briefly as if to ask for a reprieve. “Um, no not really. I-I was just telling Dr. Reid that I’ve applied to audit his class before, but was always rejected.”
“That’s a shame. Well, maybe I can look into that. You know, put in a good word for you.” Rossi chuckled, nudging (y/n)’s shoulder to suggest he’d help her. She only shyly laughed and took a step closer to the door. 
“Oh, no you don’t have to do that for me.” 
“Nonsense. I’d be happy to do it.” 
“Thanks, Mr. Rossi.” With a thankful smile, (y/n) pranced out the door, closing the lecture hall door sharply behind her without one look back. 
“Nice girl,” Rossi acknowledged. “But it would be nicer if she could be on time.” 
I laughed, despite not finding (y/n) to be at the butt of the joke to be funny at all. 
“Um, are you actually gonna put in a good word for her?” I followed Rossi with my eyes, searching his face with a desperate hope that my question didn’t reveal too much. 
“Yeah, why not? I figured you would’ve liked to have another student audit your class.” 
“Yeah yeah…” I murmured in false agreement. 
Herein lies the trouble.
✧・゚: *✧・゚:* 
PART 4 COMING SOON!
comment to be added to the taglist!
taglist: 
@andiebeaword​ @rexorangecouny​ @rip2myyouthjpg​ 
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captaindodson · 4 years ago
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7AM confessions (t.h oneshot)
Synopsis: You just finished working a graveyard shift at your summer job. Just as you’re about to get into your car to leave to sleep the weekend away, a familiar face appears to confront you on what happened. 
Paring: Tom Holland x Gender Neutral!Reader
Word Count: 2.4k+ 
Warnings: Angsty (?), Swearings??
Once your apple watch displayed 7 AM you knew the long week you had was finally over. The assembly line filled with car parts ready for inspection remain still and untouched as everyone switches off with the next group of shift workers who are already coming onto the floor. Luckly, its Friday, so you get to sleep the weekend away and reset your sleep schedule for your last week of shifts before the fall semester starts. You tidy up your small station and when you think you’ve done enough you turn around to leave and then you see your co-worker/work friend Raj approaching. You both wear matching white hard hats, blue gloves, white jackets, dark blue work pants, and brown steal toed boots.
“Hey, how was this morning,” Raj stops a few feet away and raises his hand to fist bump and you happily reciprocate before sliding your hands into your jacket pockets.
“It wasn’t a bad night, Lauren didn’t come in tonight cause she was sick with a stomach bug. Oh I did finally registered for my university courses during my break, and I got so lucky with my extra circulars.The moment I went to register there was only one spot left for the ones I wanted.”
Raj just nods and glances around the work station, inspecting to see you cleaned it to his standard. You notice his wandering eyes but you aren’t bothered by it. You’ve been in that position where you have to work a long eight hours on your feet and the person before you at your assigned station leaves it a mess and you’re stuck cleaning it for the first hour of your shift. So after he finishes inspecting he meets your eyes and nods in approval.
“Oh shit really? I should probably do that sooner rather than later. I’ve been going to university for three years and I almost always forget every time  to register on time,” He replies.
“Don’t you have your final research seminar and reading seminar this year? I thought certain classes had a small capacity?”
“Oh. Well guess what I’m doing during my lunch break,”
You lightly laugh at him as the sound of a warning buzzer echoing through the factory floor goes off. You look around and see that most, if not all of your night shift people are already off the floor and you take this as your cue to leave.
“Anyway, talk to you later Raj,” he gives you small smile in response and steps around you to get started. You make your way off the floor and to your designated locker, providing some of the people from dayshift a warm smile as you walk past them.
You walk through a pair of white double doors which leads into a a bright baby blue hallway which eventually guides you to where the designated bathrooms are with the lockers. When you get to the end of the hall you turn left and head into the female washroom where the you’re met with an empty room. Usually, when everyone’s shift ends they’re rushing to get out (and you’re no exception). You would normally find yourself squeezing by people and dodging elbows trying to get to your locker but today is different. Staying behind for an extra few minutes to talk actually lets you take your time for once. By taking your time it also means the parking lot won’t be backed up as usual and you can drive home without any major delay to sleep your weekend away. That’s the only thing you have to look foreward to, your bed because there is no one at home, no roomates, no pets, no boyfriends, no nothing. The place you were at two months ago was totally different from where you are now. You lived abroad in London with your then boyfriend for six months until you broke it off because you were lost. 
You had to get out because your identity slowly became tightly intertwined with the person you were with. Everything revolved around them and their job and you were going no where in life. Your dreams were pushed to the back of your mind as you stayed in fancy hotel suites, alone waiting for your ex-boyfriend to come back from an exhausted day on set to only desperately try to keep his eyes open when you two watched a movie or went out for a night on the town.
He really did try his best to make your time with him exciting even if he was burn out from working all day. He made small dates in your hotel room feel magical. He had your hotel room decorated in fairy lights and planned a romantic dinner looking over the city you two stayed in. He made love to you in the early hours of the morning to the organy rays of the morning sun. Or another time, when he wasn’t allowed to leave the hotel at all, he took you to the hotel roof to slow dance under the stars to music playing from that headphones you two shared. You’d pay a million dollars to experience these small moments over and over again.
Over a weekend back in London by yourself while Tom had to catch a flight last minute to do film re-shoots in LA, you decided to have a self-care night.  After lighting some candles, ordering take-out, dimming the lights, and scrolling through Netflix to finally find a good-feel show, you finally sit comfortably on the couch and relax. You found a generic rom-com from the 2000’s that looked mildly interesting and even if the plot wasn’t any good you could still get a good laugh about it.
As the movie progresses and the main character struggles to choose between a boy and her dream job you find your mind slowly loosing focus with what is happening on the screen and  reflecting it back into your own life. After a few seconds pondering you realize something,  had no idea what you wanted to do. You were in your early twenties, you were doing school part-time online with a program you liked but you spent most of your time with Tom. Traveling to country to country to join him while he filmed, staying in hotel rooms waiting for him, sometime visiting set when you were allowed too, it was truly an exciting and calming lifestyle.
Even though you believed you finally found the guy that you could spend the rest of your life with, a second family you got along with, a place you could see yourself settling down in, you didn’t have anything for yourself. When you thought you of trying to return to in-class schooling with a larger course load and renting a place for the semester and trying to sustain a long-distant relationship with someone in the limelight, it just stressed you out. You knew it wouldn’t be easy and just seeing how deflated Tom looked when he returned to you after working, you knew the relationship would push him to his limits.
Even after initiate moments you realized how tired and over worked he was. The look in his eyes when he had to leave for work the next morning couldn’t go unnoticed.  You felt your heart squeezing itself and your breathing became heavier. You would never want to cause Tom any pain on your behalf, and you can’t continue to drag your feet with your education because you felt like you . So, you did what you did best, shut someone out and leave. You made up lie about how this relationship wasn’t working on your end, broke it off and flew back to the town where you had been attending school online. Scrambling enough money together to buy a used car and a small studio apartment and apply to as many jobs as you could. You got lucky, that when you were applying that a car factory needed more summer students and they were paying their workers a decent living wage and you just jumped on it. The job helped you get settled but it also helped ignore the small amount of regret you felt. It is too late to turn around now and now you must live with your choices. 
You shake yourself out of a daze you didn’t realize clouded your mind, and it seems your feet have carried you to the front of your small grey locker. It looks like what all typical high school lockers look except half the size. You raise your hand to the lock to do one full twist to the right, one full twist to the left, and half a twist to the right again and my the lock pops off with a light pull.
You reach in to collect your phone, black spring jacket, dark blue water bottle, then you reach into your jacket pocket to fish out your car keys. You hum in satisfaction when you feel the cool metal of your keys in your pocket. You drape your jacket over your arm as you shut the locker quietly and slide the lock over the hook and push it shut. You proceed to continue to follow the baby blue hallways until you’ve reached the double glass doors of the exit. You push open the glass door and is met with a cool morning breeze also paired with a peach colored sky.
You make your way across the concrete of the parking lot, following the line of different coloured cars parked next to each other, eyes wandering at the different licence plates, soaking up the calmness of the morning sun until you stop dead in your tracks. You look up to see someone leaning on the hood of your car. This person is dressed in some blue jeans, a black hoodie, dark red hat, and it seems they’re just casually looking down and scrolling through their phone unaware of your presence a couple feet away. You think for a minute before speaking, should you just walk back inside and get someone to confront this guy or should you just do it yourself? I mean it is your car in a private parking lot, someone will hear you scream right? After a few seconds go by you just say fuck as the longer you stand here the less time you get to spend sleeping. 
“Ah hem, excuse me you’re leaning on my car. Can you please get off,”
You keep your distance and tightly grip your waterbottle. Just so you have a head start if you need run back into the factory or even defend yourself. Their fingers stop scrolling, but their gaze is still facing downwards, hood and hat hiding their features.
“Uh hello, you need to get out of this parking lot its a private. Ill call security if you don’t move, ”
You shallow nervously as the figure stays still, unresponsive. When it seems like this figure is just going to continue to ignore you they stand up abruptly causing you to jump.
“Hi Y/N,’ An english accent comes out from the hood and your expression changes from fear to dread in seconds. Heart still pumping fast in your chest and you feel yourself getting even more nervous. 
“What are you doing here, Tom”, You cross your arms the best you can and start staring at your feet to avoid eye contact.
“Can’t I come visit my girlfriend after she finishes work,” Tom questions as his foots steps get louder as they get closer.
“I am not your girlfriend remember.  Besides the point, how do you even know where to find me. I haven’t talked to you in two months.”
‘You left without a much of explanation. You said when I came home from LA that this was over because you couldn’t handle this relationship, it stressed you out to much. I thought everything was going good mutually good in all aspects of the relationship, but I guess I was wrong. After months of trying to unravel what I could have possible done wrong, I just had to find you and get the truth of why you left,”
He ignores your question as he bends his knees to try and get a look at your face. Your mind almost speeds up, unable to come up with a good enough half-assed response, you mouth blurts out the truth without much thought.
“I love that you’re able to pursue your dreams, and god Tom I wouldn’t want you to do anything to compromise that. But I want to be able to pursue my dreams too Tom. The only way I can do that is if I leave and doing a long-distant relationship hardly ever works out for anybody! I don’t want you wearing yourself out because of me and being long-distance was going to tear you apart,”
You sniffle away the tears building up in your eyes while focusing on the curves on the concrete.
“Darling, why didn’t you just talk to me? I would and do understand if you want to pursue something on your own. I would never want to settle for anything less.  “
He reaches out a finger to find a place under your chin to lift your head gently so your eyes will meet. You glossy eyes meet his soft, gentle brown eyes and that alone makes you want to cry. You never meant to cause pain to reach those eyes, you just thought you were doing yourselves a favour.
“Baby, we could’ve done this together you know that. We would’ve never survived our first year together if we didn’t talk stuff out. Trying to make a relationship work with a person I’ve loved since our first date is worth the endless amount of stress life causes. Y/N, my darling, I would do anything to make you happy but also stay in my arms forever,”
His soft tone makes your knees weak and that is when the dam of tears breaks from your eyes and they flow down your cheeks.
“I’m sorry. I-I just thought I was doing the right thing for both of us. I was watching a movie and I started stressing my sell-out and just thinking for myself .I’m sorry I put you through this, I know I can’t turn back time, but please forgive me for causing you any pain because my love for you got me all fucked up, “ You say trying wipe away the salty tears dripping down your face. 
“I’m not mad nor am I upset with you. I’m just glad I can have you back in my life again.”
Tom smiles even bright as he pulls lightly on the hand he has a hold of to drag your body over to his. He embraces you into his warmth and your body curls into him and all you can think is there is no place you’d rather be.
“Now, why don’t we go back to your place and catch up on some sleep huh? Then you can give me tour around your new place and make up for lost time,”
He hums into your hair as you pull back from his embrace to look up, wiping your eyes with your sleeve to look at Tom more clearly.
“Yeah, I’d like that”.
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topherfoxtrot · 4 years ago
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Thunderbolts: The hulk's personal protection team
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Hey, here's the second episode of my fanon thunderbolts. Since last episode Emil Blonsky escaped from his imprisonment. He's probably going after the Hulk, right? John, Ava, Yelena, Justin and the mysterious Contessa Valentina attend to a presentation Bruce Banner is giving at MIT to find out. This one is more comedy leaned. It wasn't a conscious choice, it just sort of happened. But I'm glag it did. If you enjoy your read please like, share or comment something :D
Valentina hated those heels but something inside of her made she wear them anyways, even on grass. She was going first and foremost. Justin Hammer was right behind her jumping in excitement and giving a lot of useless yet interesting facts about MIT lore and culture. The rest of the thunderbolts were there too. John was wearing a cap and a 5 o'clock beard. Ava was wearing a huge gray sweater as she usually did. Yelena was rocking a leather jacket. For all purposes they did look like a group of college students.
"This place is huge!" Ava looked around, "I wish I went to college."
"What would you do?" John asked.
"I don't know. Anything except quantum physics I guess!" Ava laughed.
"I knew a quantum physics guy once." Justin thought out loud.
"Yeah you knew everyone." Yelena rolled her eyes, "You told that already. We been knew."
"Hey, no need to be so harsh. Your new equipment is my property and I can reclaim them at any time, remember?"
"Oh yeah I haven't used the tasers yet. Wanna help me out with that?" Yelena smirked.
"Behave, children." Valentina intervened, "We want doctor Banner to have a good first impression about us. Specially after the Blosnky incident." She side eyed Ava.
The campus was packed with people of all ages and all around the country and possibly the whole world too. There have been a lot of workshops and seminars the whole week, but today's main event was special: Bruce Banner was gonna give a presentation on the applications of biochemistry in robotics. Apparently the robot dogs running around campus were testing an engine that doesn't need gasoline or electric energy to work.
"I've seen those dogs before." John was reading an informative folder, "I don't think building them to never sleep is a good idea."
"I have a history of dangerous applications of robotics and I agree." Justin cleaned his glasses. The microfiber cloth had his name on it. "It can get out of hand rather quickly!"
"Now that I think about it Bruce Banner also has a history of dangerous applications of robotics." Yelena pointed out, "Y'all remember Ultron?"
"Mistakes are learning opportunities. I mean, not for them I guess." Valentina sighted, "Trust me those super idiots are always making mistakes and they never learn!" She said that last part in a loud whisper.
The presentation was supposed to happen at 4pm so they got there one hour earlier as the Contessa wanted. Doctor Banner was in the auditorium already. His big hands were setting the projector and his eyes were studying the obnoxiously small papers scattered across the table. As usual, the heels Valentina was wearing announced her presence.
"Doctor Banner." She greeted him formally.
"Hello." He analyzed her quickly, "How can I help you..? And you?" He looked at the thunderbolts arriving with the Contessa.
"Well, you see." Valentina took off her sunglasses, "It might actually be the other way around. We are the ones who are here to help."
"Oh." Bruce changed his posture to pay full attention at the lady.
"We are the thunderbolts and we are here to protect you Doctor Banner."
"Protect... me?" Bruce tried to sound polite.
"We have privileged information that confirms you might be in danger, man!" Justin put himself in front of Valentina, "We don't want to scare you or anything but the Abomination scaped his imprisonment!"
Bruce's eyes opened wide suddenly. It's been fifteen years since he saw Emil Blonsky. And as time passed by he caught himself thinking about the man less and less. Now however this distant memory became an immediate danger.
"Should I cancel the..?"
"No, of course not Doctor Banner!" Valentina waved her hand as if the whole situation was nothing but a little annoyance, "You can carry on with your presentation. The Thunderbolts are here to protect you. Also, my name is Valentina Allegra de La Fontiane, Contessa Valentina de La Fontiane. It's a lot to remember I know but don't worry, I'm hard to forget."
"Okay. The.. hm, thunderbolts." He looked at the weird bunch, "Hey aren't you the new Captain America?" He asked.
John looked down and then looked to the roof real quick, "I'm not Captain America anymore." He said between his teeth.
"Yeah there's a new new Captain America now." Valentina rolled her eyes, "But that's not important now, is it? We'll just sit here and wait for the presentation to be over. How about that?"
Bruce didn't trust the team quite yet, but he trusted himself to be his own protection so it was no big deal. Still, as the thunderbolts took their sits at the end of the room, Bruce grabbed his cellphone to check if Emil was really out. There was nothing on the news or on twitter which meant that either Valentina was lying or the government was hiding this information really well. Both options were equally plausible in Bruce's eyes so he decided to roll with it.
***
When the presentation started the lights went out. Yelena, Ava, John, Justin and Valentina were sitting on the last set of chairs. At some point Valentina got up to get a phonecall. John whispered to not disturb the presentation:
"So...who is she?"
"What do you mean?" Justin asked, also quietly.
"This... Contessa. I don't know. Her." He pointed at the exit door she just left through.
"Haven't you read the card?" Ava asked.
"What card? You mean the blank card? The one with nothing written on it?"
"It was written with invisible ink." Yelena clarified.
"Invisible ink?" John couldn't believe his own words.
"John that's the oldest trick in the book." Justin seemed interested in the presentation, "Espionage 101."
"I was black ops...!" John sounded offended. Someone shushed them so they stayed in silence for a while. Ava felt bad for John though.
"It doesn't matter if you read it or not." She whispered, "It's not like there was any key information there. It was just her name and this weird lightning symbol."
"The thunderbolts!" Justin whispered back.
"So.. us?" John asked.
"That's what it seems." Yelena looked around with no sign of the Contessa, "But who are we?"
"Didn't she explain anything to you guys?" Justin asked.
"No! Did she explain anything to you?"
"I mean, no."
"What?" Ava asked a little louder than intended.
"She just said she would sponsor my projects so I was immediately on board." Justin justified himself, "I just assumed you were more into her deal than I was."
"I can't believe I fell for another pyramid scheme." Ava sighted
"Another?" John asked.
Someone shushed them again, more aggressively this time.
"Excuse me who do you think you are to shush me??" Justin whispered as loud as he could.
"Hammer, sit down!" Yelena ordered.
"Not, let's see what this fella has to say!" Justin grabbed his cellphone to use as a flashlight, but that was not necessary because the lights turned on out of sudden. The robot dogs entered the room as part of the presentation and everyone clapped and cheered at them. Justin sat down again and straighten his blazer aggressively.
The robot dogs did some flips and silly dances. Their "skin" was transparent so it was possible to see all fluids and engines working inside. Everyone was having a good time except Justin, John and Yelena. Something about the dogs and the claps made John unsettled. Yelena felt the same. They looked at each other looking for some guidance. That's when the shots were fired.
A few people from the crowd got up wearing balaclava masks and wielding machine guns. The robot dogs positioned themselves, one on each side of every seat row. The chemicals inside them started to bubble in a menacing way. A man from the first seat now in balaclava got closer to Hulk with a shotgun aimed at his head.
"Hello everyone!" The man screamed, "We are only here for the money. If everyone cooperates, no one gets hurt."
The criminals started to walk around the room with huge bags stealing rings, watches, wallets and all sorts of jewelry.
"There's twelve of them." Yelena whispered.
"How much you can take?" John analyzed the room with her.
"Without getting shot? A few. But the dogs seem to be time bombs."
"Yeah there's too many people here. We have to think this through!" Ava stated.
"Oh my god is that Ant-Man??" Justin screamed pointing at Ava's feet.
"What? Where?" Ava got up on a jump. The men started shooting at her but she phased around the bullets out of reflex. That was just the distraction Justin needed to run into the exit door Valentina went through minutes ago.
"Fucking Hammer!" Yelena grunted before jumping to the ground. A nearby dog jumped to attack her but she quickly applied a jiujitsu move that made the dog fly above her. The fluids inside the robot started to shine in a weird way. John jumped across the seats and kicked the robot to the roof where it exploded. The roof suffered some damage but no enough to fall. No one got hurt. Except the dog whose metallic remains fell onto the ground.
John landed beside Yelena to check on her. Ava made herself invisible and visible again more times than the nearest criminal could comprehend. When Ava reached him she grabbed him by the back and used him as a human shield. Her hand phased into his neck in a lethal threat.
"Nobody shoots no one and no bloody dog explodes!" She demanded.
Everyone in the auditorium hold their breath together. Bruce seemed to be having fun. Yelena and John remained on the ground watching everything in anticipation. Ava had declared a temporary negotiating time, but for how long?
Suddenly breaking the absolute silence the auditorium was emerged in music started to come out of the speakers on the wall. Even the criminals looked around confused to the sound of "U can't touch this". When MC Hammer sang the iconic 'Hammer time!' the exit door exploded and among the smoke Justin Hammer emerged with a shield, three tasers, a shotgun and bunch of flash grenades. He took his right hand to the sky to show his car keys in triumph.
"He went out to get our stuff from the car trunk." John said in denial.
"Fucking Hammer!" Yelena screamed again (with a smile this time) before running to his direction. John came right after.
The criminals started shooting at Justin, who jumped to the ground scattering everything he brought with him. Ava let go of her human shield and disappeared. Yelena grabbed her tasers and John grabbed his shield. They both got up ready for action. The criminals started shooting and John instinctively projected the shield in front of them while Yelena got closer to him.
"Hey, it even looks like we rehearsed it!" Yelena said, smiling.
John also gave her a smile. Without realizing it he offered his arm for a forearm pump like he used to do with an old friend. Yelena forearm pumped him and jumped back into action. John smiled even brighter.
What happens next is just incredible. John's shield ricochet's throughout the whole auditorium at his will. Ava phases through and disarms everyone fast. Even with no powers Yelena runs around quickly dodging bullets and immobilizing the criminals. Justin cheered for them just alright. But he also turned off the robot dogs and used some of the flash grenades when necessary.
At the end of the showdown all the criminals were gathered at the podium. Bruce scrubbed his hands with a pride smile as if he did something at all. The gesture clarified that the threat was indeed neutralized so all the people in the crowd got up and started clapping at them. Justin waved his hands with a bright smile.
"Come on guys, it's the least we could do."
"What is happening?" Ava grabbed her arms is a slight self hug.
"Don't you see?" Hulk whispered to her, "You're the heroes!"
The sentence made John move his shoulders awkwardly. We are the heroes!, He whispered to himself. Yelena giggled because she totally heard that. She grabbed one of John's hands and one of Ava's hands and curved to the crowd as if they were actors in a play. Ava and John looked at each other and decided to bound as well. The cheers went louder.
The Contessa finally came back. She looked worried.
"What the fuck is going on?"
"We are the heroes, Val!" Justin winked at her before grabbing John's shield and bound as well.
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nicklloydnow · 4 years ago
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“Why did Keynes' promised utopia—still being eagerly awaited in the '60s—never materialise? The standard line today is that he didn't figure in the massive increase in consumerism. Given the choice between less hours and more toys and pleasures, we've collectively chosen the latter. This presents a nice morality tale, but even a moment's reflection shows it can't really be true. Yes, we have witnessed the creation of an endless variety of new jobs and industries since the '20s, but very few have anything to do with the production and distribution of sushi, iPhones, or fancy sneakers.
So what are these new jobs, precisely? A recent report comparing employment in the US between 1910 and 2000 gives us a clear picture (and I note, one pretty much exactly echoed in the UK). Over the course of the last century, the number of workers employed as domestic servants, in industry, and in the farm sector has collapsed dramatically. At the same time, ‘professional, managerial, clerical, sales, and service workers’ tripled, growing ‘from one-quarter to three-quarters of total employment.’ In other words, productive jobs have, just as predicted, been largely automated away (even if you count industrial workers globally, including the toiling masses in India and China, such workers are still not nearly so large a percentage of the world population as they used to be.)
But rather than allowing a massive reduction of working hours to free the world's population to pursue their own projects, pleasures, visions, and ideas, we have seen the ballooning of not even so much of the ‘service’ sector as of the administrative sector, up to and including the creation of whole new industries like financial services or telemarketing, or the unprecedented expansion of sectors like corporate law, academic and health administration, human resources, and public relations. And these numbers do not even reflect on all those people whose job is to provide administrative, technical, or security support for these industries, or for that matter the whole host of ancillary industries (dog-washers, all-night pizza delivery) that only exist because everyone else is spending so much of their time working in all the other ones.
These are what I propose to call ‘bullshit jobs’.
It's as if someone were out there making up pointless jobs just for the sake of keeping us all working. And here, precisely, lies the mystery. In capitalism, this is precisely what is not supposed to happen. Sure, in the old inefficient socialist states like the Soviet Union, where employment was considered both a right and a sacred duty, the system made up as many jobs as they had to (this is why in Soviet department stores it took three clerks to sell a piece of meat). But, of course, this is the sort of very problem market competition is supposed to fix. According to economic theory, at least, the last thing a profit-seeking firm is going to do is shell out money to workers they don't really need to employ. Still, somehow, it happens.
While corporations may engage in ruthless downsizing, the layoffs and speed-ups invariably fall on that class of people who are actually making, moving, fixing and maintaining things; through some strange alchemy no one can quite explain, the number of salaried paper-pushers ultimately seems to expand, and more and more employees find themselves, not unlike Soviet workers actually, working 40 or even 50 hour weeks on paper, but effectively working 15 hours just as Keynes predicted, since the rest of their time is spent organizing or attending motivational seminars, updating their facebook profiles or downloading TV box-sets.
(...)
This is a profound psychological violence here. How can one even begin to speak of dignity in labour when one secretly feels one's job should not exist? How can it not create a sense of deep rage and resentment. Yet it is the peculiar genius of our society that its rulers have figured out a way, as in the case of the fish-fryers, to ensure that rage is directed precisely against those who actually do get to do meaningful work. For instance: in our society, there seems a general rule that, the more obviously one's work benefits other people, the less one is likely to be paid for it. Again, an objective measure is hard to find, but one easy way to get a sense is to ask: what would happen were this entire class of people to simply disappear? Say what you like about nurses, garbage collectors, or mechanics, it's obvious that were they to vanish in a puff of smoke, the results would be immediate and catastrophic. A world without teachers or dock-workers would soon be in trouble, and even one without science fiction writers or ska musicians would clearly be a lesser place. It's not entirely clear how humanity would suffer were all private equity CEOs, lobbyists, PR researchers, actuaries, telemarketers, bailiffs or legal consultants to similarly vanish. (Many suspect it might markedly improve.) Yet apart from a handful of well-touted exceptions (doctors), the rule holds surprisingly well.
(...)
If someone had designed a work regime perfectly suited to maintaining the power of finance capital, it's hard to see how they could have done a better job. Real, productive workers are relentlessly squeezed and exploited. The remainder are divided between a terrorised stratum of the, universally reviled, unemployed and a larger stratum who are basically paid to do nothing, in positions designed to make them identify with the perspectives and sensibilities of the ruling class (managers, administrators, etc.)—and particularly its financial avatars—but, at the same time, foster a simmering resentment against anyone whose work has clear and undeniable social value. Clearly, the system was never consciously designed. It emerged from almost a century of trial and error. But it is the only explanation for why, despite our technological capacities, we are not all working 3–4 hour days.”
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florbelles · 4 years ago
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General for Lyra and John please 💜
thank you lovely!! also asked by my loves @consumedkings and @strafethesesinners xx
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GENERAL
i. who initiated the relationship, and how did it go?
um, god did? ask the voice :/
this essentially comes down to technicalities; theoretically it’s john who pursues her in the most tangible sense, approaching her after the first sermon she attends and inviting her up to the compound ( an invitation she refuses ), and later up to the ranch ( somewhat forcefully via shaggy showing up at her doorstep ) —  none of those instances were intended to initiate a romantic relationship, as his interest was in recruiting her into the project and bringing her in for joseph to speak to her ( and later to confront her about her history and her intentions in coming to hope county, as well as the potential threat she posed ).
he was correct in his conclusions about her aforementioned intents, however, meaning that lyra — though she cast off her plans immediately upon actually hearing joseph speak and gaining insight into the project — had in fact arrived with the intent of using the project and john by proxy, via seducing him, if necessary. ultimately, seduction  ( a method both were willing to resort to ) and manipulation ( a method they both default to ) weren’t necessary, and their relationship developed with the same intent on both sides at the same rate.
lyra did, however, initiate their physical relationship — again, on a technicality, not an objective — so we may tilt it to her side, even if john took the greater initiative in the circumstances that lead them to that point.
ii. did they have an official first date? If so, what was it like?
they did not, unless one is counting the aforementioned evening at the ranch ( what’s more romantic than being confronted with your history as the most prolific female serial killer in the history of the united states? ). the closest thing they have to a courting phase before they’re essentially living together ( what, she isn’t getting that water pressure anywhere else in the valley ) is in the first weeks while they see each other at sermons and services and later in the evenings, ostensibly for her to give intel on rumors of outside interference — the film crew’s anticipated arrival and her promise to join the project after proving her good faith and dedication upfront deflect the urgency from her personally — and in reality is the beginning of their romantic and sexual involvement.
all jests aside, they do both believe they’re divinely intended and that they were always meant to be brought to the place they find themselves, and that belief combined with their intense and obsessive personalities ensured about a quick escalation in their attachment.
iii. what was their first kiss like?
unfortunate, impulsive and extremely unsexy. her neck was still bleeding from where she’d begun to slice her own throat, john was trying to put pressure on it and twist the knife out of her hand, his nose started bleeding from the collision force when she kissed him, they were caught up and she was on top of him so they started having sex but it was just hurting both of them more than anything. it ended when she butted him in the forehead halfway through, hopped off, started borderline hyperventilating and repeating “i can’t, i’m sorry, i can’t, i’m so sorry,” left him in great confusion and physical pain on the floor and sprinted away. shaggy found him crawling around on the ground cursing and looking for her knife.
they’ve both had much worse! 3.5/10.
iv. were they each other’s first anything (kiss, relationship, etc.)?
definitely not physically speaking, but probably the first ( and canonically only ) great love of each other’s lives, since emotional intimacy isn’t something either of them have historically afforded ( at least in the context of both full awareness and acceptance of what both parties are loving; john is the first person in the world to know exactly who she is and what she’s done, with the possible exception of joseph if you leave out specifics ). on a more technical note, but relatedly, it’s their first marriage.
v. what’s their height difference? age difference?
just under six inches ( ~15 cm ) in bare feet, and just about six years as far as anyone can attest ( the record does not state how many years john seed has been 32, c. 2018 ).
vi. what’s their relationship with each other’s families?
neither of them have any relationship with lyra’s family — she left at sixteen and was disinherited within the year. lyra is a member of the seed family both via her marriage and outside of it; she would have joined the project with or without john. she’s closest to her sister-in-law, faith, but jacob is her mentor and training overseer; she has less personal closeness with joseph purely by virtue of their difference in station, but it’s a positive relationship — she believes him, and he believes in what she is; in that respect, they understand each other in a way unique to them, but that’s painful knowledge. while her closeness with his siblings is mostly a good thing in the context of their relationship, it can also be a mild source of contention when he feels she is valued or adulated in ways that he is not, but that has more to do with his fears about how they perceive him than how she feels about them or how they view her.
mostly, though, their family is the project, and their shared family is enormously important to both of them.
vii. who takes the lead in social situations?
while john would like to say this could be either of them — and it could be, in practice — lyra is more extroverted and affable in a way that genuinely puts others at ease ( generally speaking ). john is more likely to make everyone uncomfortable. remember that time he just walked up to mary may’s truck and asked if she was scared? ugh his interpersonal skills, his mind,
viii. who gets jealousy more easily?
lyra legitimately does not experience jealousy in this capacity at all, so the answer is john, but any petty jealousy that exists is generally outside of the romantic sphere and more regarding his insecurities in the familial realm, particularly with joseph; one of the worst fights they ever have is immediately after the reaping, regarding lyra’s apparent trust in everyone else in the family to have things handled but absolute fury that he interfered after she’d been taken hostage by bombing the bridge — it’s because joseph has seen him die, never her, a source of anxiety that almost cripples her every second of every day, but for him it triggers the fear that the others consider him weak or incompetent, his wife included, and jealousy of the easy praise and confidence seemingly afforded to everyone else by everyone else.
ix. who whispers inappropriate things in the other’s ear?
both of them. do not go near them, ever. ever, but especially before or after sermons or seminars. shaggy just wishes they whispered more at home.
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howlingday · 4 years ago
Text
Setting: After an unfortunate dust accident, as all things start, Jaune becomes feral and violent, hiding out in the wilderness. He's been gone for months, but has been spotted near a remote location in Vale: the Emerald Forest. He's been spotted killing Grimm, attacking Huntsman that get too close, and throwing rude hand gestures at Bullheads flying overhead. Team RWBY and ORPN are now setting up camp outside what is determined to be his "territory." Once set up, the team begins making plans for capturing their fiendishly feral friend.
---------------------------------------------------
Oscar: The tents are pitched!
Weiss: The fire-pit has been made!
Blake: Are we missing anything?
Nora: Ren just came back with a bunch of twigs, while I brought the REAL firewood!
Blake: I guess we can start planning, then.
Yang: Sounds good to me! Anyone got anything?
Penny: I could set the forest on fire to flush him out. He would escape the blaze towards us, where we will capture him.
Yang: Or he beats the tar out of us for burning his home down.
Blake: We could track him down, see where in this forest he calls home.
Oscar: That could take days, or even weeks. The sooner we find him, the sooner we can use Weiss' dust antidote.
Nora: Even though it was her dust that turned him into this the first place?
Weiss: Hey!
Ren: What if he baited him? (Everyone looks at him) Jaune might be our friend, but he's more or less an animal right now, and animals just need traps and the right bait.
Blake: That could work, but we'd need the right bait first.
Ruby: It should be something he can't say no to. I'd say dinosaur chicken nuggets, but we didn't pack any. (Chuckles) Does anyone have any ideas on what to use as bait? (Everyone stares at her) What?
Yang: W-Well, you and Jaune are pretty close.
Weiss: You both attended leadership seminars together at Beacon.
Nora: You both stayed pretty close together when we traveled to Haven.
Ren: And you have a crush on him. (Everyone looks at him) Was it not obvious?
Ruby: W-What?! No! W-We're just really good friends! Like Blake and Yang! (The two look at each other, then deadpan at Ruby) What?
Nora: So it's decided!
Ruby: What's decided?!
Nora: We use you as bait, and Jaune comes for you, we'll jump out and hit him with a tranquilizer round!
Ruby: B-But wouldn't it be better to have Weiss bait him, slow him down with her glyphs, and then I shoot him with the round?
Weiss: (Shakes her head) It's too risky. With so many Grimm, plus the possibility of Jaune remembering my semblance, he wouldn't try to attack me out in the open where you could be distracted by a rogue Beowolf.
Ruby: But-
Nora: Plus, we already bought your outfit.
Ruby: What?!
THE NEXT DAY, AT DAWN
Yang: (Into her earpiece) Is everyone in position?
Ren: Ren, in position at the north exit.
Nora: I'm at the south exit, over!
Blake: I'm at the east exit with Weiss.
Yang: And I'm at the west exit with Oscar. Does everyone see Ruby?
Ruby: This is bull!
Yang: Ruby, don't shout, or you'll scare away Jaune!
Ruby: Okay, then, let me say it like this. (Clears her throat) THIS IS SUCH A LOAD OF BULL! (Nevermore scatter away)
Oscar: This might actually bring him closer.
Yang: (Whispering) I know.
Blake: We see him! He's entering from east!
Blake and Weiss watch from their position, high in the trees, as Jaune passes underneath. He's dirty, covered in mud and grime, and growing a small goatee. His shirt and armor is gone, leaving only his torn and cut up jeans covering himself. He scans the area and finds Ruby in what appears to be her normal attire, except her collar is cut a little lower, revealing more skin, and the thighs of her pants have been cut out. He approaches her and Ruby takes a step back, causing Jaune to approach more quickly. He stands over her as she shivers, then he walks past her.
Ruby: Phew! He passed me! Maybe I can get out of this.
Yang: (Over comms) Where are you going?! Chase after him!
Ruby: He's not bothering me, so I say let him go and get him from behind!
Blake: Uh, guys-
Yang: Ruby, we can't tranquilize him from here. He's out of range!
Blake: Guys-
Ruby: Out of range?! He should have been in range when he was right in front of me! If I had Crescent Rose, I could have shot him from here!
Blake: Guys, Jaune is-
Yang: I told you why you couldn't bring her! As soon as he saw her, he would have ran!
Ruby: Yeah, I could have got him right in his-!
Weiss: RUBY! WATCH YOUR BACK!
Ruby: Huh? (Turns around, Sees Jaune right behind her) Meep!
Jaune raises his hand up to her, his fingers calloused and fingernails dirty from what she hoped was dirt, and Ruby jumped away. This spooked Jaune and he got defensive. Ruby raised her hands slowly to show she was unarmed. Jaune cautiously approached after a few moments.
Ruby: Easy, big guy! It's just me! It's me, Ruby. (Jaune got closer and put his hand up to hers, then his other hand to hers) See? It's okay. I'm not going to-
Yang: NOW!
Yang leaps from her tree as Nora and Blake do the same from theirs, while Ren, Weiss, and Oscar stay behind to guard their exits. Weiss summons a glyph beneath Jaune and Ruby, but Jaune leaps away, trapping Ruby inside.
Ruby: Dammit, Weiss!
Weiss: You should have jumped out of the way! The animal did!
Jaune turns to run, but is cut off by Nora, who swings Magnhild at him. He steps back, dodging every swing, but is sideswiped by a hook from Yang. He falls to the ground, and Blake wraps his legs in her ribbon. He struggles, but is otherwise immobilized.
Ruby: (Free from her glyph) Tranquilize him now!
Yang: On it! (Reaches into her back pouch) Just gotta... Um, just gotta... Uh, I don't have it.
Nora: I don't have it, either.
Blake: N-Neither do I, but I'm, rgh, also kinda busy here!
Ren: (Into his earpiece) I have it, but I can't shoot it from here. Should I go over there?
Yang: Yes, get over here now before- (Jaune yanks on the ribbon, pulling Blake off balance and freeing himself) that happens.
Ren leaps down, loading Storm Flower with the tranquilizer. Jaune and Yang crash, but Jaune uses his momentum to push her at an angle, then pull in the opposite direction, and swing her into Nora. Nora catches Yang, but falls backwards. Ruby runs out of the way, but Jaune gets behind her, grabs her and uses her as a human shield as Ren fires at him from behind.
Ruby: (Is hit, Slurs before passing out) Oh, you sonova-
Jaune runs away, holding Ruby over his shoulder. He turns and sees Ren pointing at him again, so he turns around and holds Ruby in front of him. He then darts right into the treeline before returning to a beeline for deeper into the forest.
Yang: (Watches as Ruby's carried off) Damn it! (Rips off her pouch and throws it to the ground) Oh, there are the tranquilizers! Everyone group up! This capture mission just became a rescue mission, specifically rescuing our team leader and friend. Everybody split up and find out where Wild Child took my sister! If we don't find her, we go with Penny's plan, and burn this forest to the ground! But until she's found, nobody is going back to camp!
BACK AT CAMP
Penny: Campsite is secure, Patrol number 347 is complete! Now performing campsite Patrol number 348! (Walks around the campsite, Sees rustling in a tent) Unusual activity in Ruby's tent. Investigating.
Penny opens the tent and finds Ruby and Jaune currently fighting each other. She assumed their clothes were removed to make it an even fight between the unarmed combatants. Jaune has Ruby pinned, but it quickly shifts to Ruby somehow pinning him with her smaller form. Due to constant shift, Penny can't intervene, and shuts the tent as she exits.
Penny: Oh, I know! I will cheer on Ruby with some intense music for battle! Now searching data library for fitting battle music. Hmm, since we are in a forest, I will filter for songs with forest-like biomes. It should also feature fierce animals in the lyrics. But it should also be sentimental, since Jaune Arc is Ruby's "cru-friend," as she puts it. Ooh! I think this song fits perfectly!
Penny's speaker extends from her mouth, blasting a yodeling howl that alerts the Grimm to veer away from interrupting this contest of strength, agility, and stamina. It worked, as all Grimm with a hundred kilometers move in the opposite direction.
Penny: (Speaker) Yee-dee-dee-dee, Yee-dee-dee-dee, A-wee-bum-buh-weh~!
Suddenly, the tent starts shaking more wildly, and two combatants grunt and pant louder than before.
Penny: (Thinking) It's working! Ruby is really putting up a fight, if her activity increase by 33 percent is a trusted indication.
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doitforstamets · 4 years ago
Text
A fanfic..!
Edit: AO3 with more chapters!
Star Trek Discovery Hugh Culber/Paul Stamets Before Discovery General audiences / Not beta read
Paul sits in the dim hotel lobby, tapping on his thigh with one hand and mindlessly browsing a PADD with the other. There is text on the screen he doesn’t read, and pictures he glances over but doesn’t look at.
His heart jumps at an incoming message.
“Be there in 20 minutes”, Hugh writes.
Paul is frozen staring at the message pop up until it disappears. His hand stops the nervous tapping to grab the PADD from the glass table, and to write back.
“Can’t wait.”
And he really can’t. 20 minutes, still? Paul feels like he’s been waiting for weeks – and technically he has. But he’s only sat in the hotel lobby for a while, just long enough to finish a cup of coffee and go trough his presentation one more time, sloppily. Hardly a way in which he does anything, usually. He takes pride in being very particular about his work.
But not this weekend.
After an unexpected encounter on Alpha Centauri 6 weeks ago – Paul checks in his head, yes, it really has been 6 weeks since he met Hugh – they’ve only been in contact via video calls and messages. Not that it hadn’t been nice – it’s been very nice – Paul was starting to get impatient with not being close to Hugh, physically.
For a while, he had been afraid to say anything, in case Hugh felt differently. He had tried to focus on his work, only messaging Hugh once or twice a day compared to the earlier long daily conversations and calls.
He didn’t mean to get so lost in the research, but that’s just who he was. One day, he had forgotten to message Hugh completely. He had spent his entire day calculating and testing yet another idea for harnessing the potential of the spore drive. It didn’t work.
He returned to his apartment, overlooking the research station on Deneva, defeated and annoyed. He had frustratedly kicked off his shoes, thrown his jacket on the couch, rest of his clothes leaving a messy trail to the bathroom. He didn’t pay much attention to anything while showering. He’s pretty sure he had washed himself.
Stepping out of the bathroom to be met with the warm glow of the Denevian sunset, Paul sighed.
Instantly, there was a muffled vibration coming from somewhere near the entrance to his apartment.
Oh shit, Paul realized. He had not looked at his personal PADD all day.
Quickly making his way to the entrance, he tried to grab the jacket he wore today from the coat rack. It wasn’t there. He turned around, remembering throwing the jacket on the couch, only to realize the buzzing was coming from his feet.
Paul grabbed the PADD from the case on the floor, almost instinctively answered the video call, before realizing he was wearing nothing but a towel around his waist.
Hastily, he grabbed the nearest shirt he could find, struggled while putting it on trying to simultaneously hold the PADD. He took a few steps to the couch and answered the call while flopping down on the couch.
Hugh’s face appeared on screen, his brows furrowed a bit, but his mouth turning into a faint smile at the sight of Paul.
“Hey,” Hugh greeted in a soft tone.
“Hi.”
“Where have you been?”
Paul had realized his mistake just moments before, and took a second to think of the answer, no matter how obvious it was.
“In the lab,” Paul answered sounding a little exhausted.
“Of course,” Hugh smiled. “Anything exiting?”
Paul sighed again, turning his gaze to look at the sunset taking its final breaths in the horizon.
“Not really. Another day spent with algorithms and experiments only to prove myself wrong.”
“Oh,” Hugh exhaled with an apologizing look. “That sucks.”
By now, Hugh knew better than to answer Paul’s disappointment with the previously tried encouraging facts, like “that’s part of the research. You’ll get there eventually.”
Instead, he had noticed, Paul took comfort in him just agreeing that sometimes his work was a pain in the ass.
Looking at the pale man on screen, direct sunlight hitting his face and hair, illuminating it even lighter and bouncing off his blue eyes with a beautiful glow, Hugh definitely agreed that right now, he would rather have Paul not so invested in his research. Maybe they could spend some time together, if it wasn’t for their distance and both of their demanding jobs.
Hugh sighed smiling, studying Paul’s white-appearing eyebrows, now furrowing a bit in a way that had become quite familiar to Hugh. Paul quickly turned back to face the screen.
“I don’t really want to think about it,” he huffs. “How was your day?”
“I missed you,” Hugh answers without hesitation.
Paul is taken aback by the honest statement. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to ignore you,” Paul murmurs, realizing there are at least a few notifications unread on his PADD from Hugh.
“I know. You were working.”
“Still. I could’ve at least messaged you,” Paul goes on to say, genuinely annoyed at himself for ignoring Hugh for a full day. He meant to keep his distance, but not this much.
“Yeah, you could’ve,” Hugh admits, flashing a grin that almost melts Paul.
Hugh is still in his white Starfleet uniform, although the jacket is open, revealing an undershirt with a far more giving neckline. Paul tries not to stare.
“But I had a busy day too,” Hugh continues. “I have time now.”
“Good,” Paul smiles, although he’s a tiny bit uncomfortable remembering that he isn’t wearing any pants.
“You’re home?” Paul asks an obvious question. He’s seen enough glimpses of Hugh’s quarters to recognize it.
“Well,” Hugh looks a little surprised. “I guess.”
Paul raises an eyebrow as in asking Hugh to elaborate.
“It still doesn’t feel very... homey.”
Hugh had lived in these quarters on this starbase for about six months now. He’d gotten used to it, and felt physically comfortable where he was, but he had never referenced to it as “home”. Maybe because he spent so much time on duty outside the starbase.
“I get that,” Paul answered. He in turn had lived in this apartment for almost 6 years. It was a place to sleep, eat and shower, above anything else. If there was a place he’d consider home, it would be the garden in the lab.
Both men startle slightly, as Paul’s PADD receives a message. Paul furrows his brows and purses his lips, opening the message. Hugh recognises the look from previous calls, often followed with an apologetic Paul having to head back to the lab.
Paul groans at the message in frustration. He places the PADD on the coffee table, disappearing from the screen.
“What is it?” Hugh asks while grabbing something off the screen himself. Might as well fill some reports if Paul must head back to work.
“Umm,” Paul huffs from outside the screen. “It’s Straal.” He reappears wearing grey collage pants and scuffing his damp blonde hair with a towel.
“Back to work?” Hugh asks with a tender smile.
“No... Well, not right now,” Paul answers, reading the message again. He scoffs. “He’s bailing on me for a conference next weekend.”
There’s an annoyed look on the man’s face, as he dismisses the message and leans back on the couch, defeated.
“Fucking Straal,” he hisses, just audibly for Hugh to hear. He chuckles to himself, trying to hide a smile.
“Where is it?” Hugh asks, apparently while writing some notes on another device in front of him.
“Betazed.” Ugh. That’s far.
“Really?” Hugh raises his brows and opens a new tap on his PADD with a swift touch. Betazed is closer than Deneva, that’s for sure.
“I’m so tired of having to act like an idiot at these things,” Paul starts ranting. Hugh nods, but is still flicking trough tabs on his device to look at something else.
“I don’t know anyone, or even if I did, I don’t care enough to remember them. Most people don’t actually care about the research and are there just for the show and... gossip,” Paul huffs. “Who goes to a science conference for gossip?”
Hugh glances at Paul and gives a small chuckle. He’s reminded of what often goes on during Starfleet Medical personnel seminars, after and in between the lectures...
“I know some people,” Hugh laughs. He’s dug up a file listing his work shifts, displayed in thick boxes of multiple colors for multiple sites and types of shifts. He scrolls down to next week.
“It’s obnoxious. Would be fine if it was just the presentations, but there’s always some afterparty you’re expected to attend if you’re to actually make connections and get sponsors. Escapes me how my social presence has anything to do with the research...” Paul rants on.
They’ve had this conversation before, a few weeks ago, when Paul was getting ready for another one of his trips across the galaxy to present his genius research to much less interested audiences. It was clear Paul wasn’t much of a people’s person. He was a convincing speaker, though. Hugh had been intrigued from the first moment he saw Paul give his presentation. Intense, captivating and so excited about his own work, it was hard not to be. Or so Hugh had thought. Apparently, he was in the minority.
“Why does Justin just get to inform me he’s not coming. I better be in a hospital if I were to skip one of these things."
Hugh looks at Paul on the screen, his face now more frustrated than annoyed.
“Please don’t hurt yourself for that,” Hugh kids. Although there’s a slight chance Paul actually might be that stupid, he admits.
Paul smiles back at him softly. A moment passes in silence, before Hugh continues.
“You know... I have vacation days saved up. I’ve always wanted to visit Betazed.”
________
GAHH. I have not written fanfiction in years..! Please be gentle, I know I also change the tense halfway trough, sorryyy. But also, this needs a name I guess?
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itsjustmyfantasyroom · 4 years ago
Text
Sweetheart 2
This was co written with my amazing @thatesqcrush​​ !! Thank you for helping me out with this my lovely your a gem xx
Warning: This talks of readers assault and very slight name shaming
Enjoy xx  
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You felt bad about how Rafael had reacted when he seen everything. You liked him a lot, from the moment you met him actually. There was just something about him. You knew how the case was going to end and you knew he wasn’t going to be happy.
You and Amanda had done some more digging the next day and found some other women that he had spoken too, one of them being underage. It was Sonny’s day off, Nick and Fin were sent to question the underage girl and Amanda was out chasing another lead, while you did more internet searches, when your laptop pinged with a new email from Liv.
You opened it and almost fell off your chair when you read it. It was information that Liv had signed you all up to for a Sex Crimes Seminars in New York next weekend, involving all SVU’s around the country. You scanned down the list and Atlanta was on it as attending. It shook you to your core just thinking about it, knowing you had to face everyone again.
Liv snapped you out of your daydreaming when she walked out of her office.
“Y/N, can you run this information to Barba for me? I have to finish our enrolment for the seminar. He has to come too, I need him to sign off on it for me.”
“Yeah sure Liv.” you gave her a small smile.
You decided to make the short walk to Rafael’s office to clear your head, you had managed to lock everything away deep down and kept it out of the way from your everyday life and no one else had a clue. You stopped on your way over to get Rafael a coffee in hopes he still wouldn’t be mad about the on line conversation with his friend.
You walked into the office area saying hello to Camera, when a tall Latina woman walked out with a gold dress. She walked straight passed you, like you were invisible.
“You can go in now Y/N” Carmen said.
You knocked on the door frame and walked in.
“What now?” Rafael snapped. He was standing looking out the window.
“It’s me.” He spun around with a frown on his face “Liv needs you to sign off for this seminar and I brought you coffee” You held up the cup with a smile on your face.  “And I want to say Sorry about the other night, I was just trying to do my job”
A small smile appeared on Rafael’s face and made his way over to the couch to sit down.
“Close the door and sit Y/N.”
You did as he asked, handing him his coffee and the file as you sat down.
“Was that Alex’s wife?” you hadn’t meant to blurt it out but you didn’t think before speaking.
“Yes.” he answered you as he signed the papers handing you back the file, picking up the coffee and sitting back on the couch.  
“I didn’t mean for it to come across like I was taking it out on you. I just….I didn’t know what to think.”
“That’s OK. I understand.”
“And I was a little jealous.” His cheeks slightly reddened.
“What! Why?” you were shocked at his confession.
“That you sent that photo to him.”
“Like I said I was just doing my job.”
“Alex can be very charming. He always gets what he wants.” he sighed rolling his eyes.
“Rafael, I may be young, but I wasn’t born yesterday. He isn’t my type anyway.” You laughed at him and a smirk came to his face.
“What’s your type then Detective?” Rafael smiled at you.
“Green eyes and suspenders.”
Just then your phone rang before he could answer you back, it was Liv.
“Hello”
“Y/N you still with Barba?”
“Yeah, I’ll put you on speaker…….What’s up Liv?”
“We have arrested Alex. The 15 year old sent him photos and he sent photo’s back. I told the DA, he has sent another ADA to handle the case. I'am sorry Barba. Y/N you need to come back, it’s going to a long afternoon” And she hung up.
Rafael hung his head down in frustration using his thumb and pointer finger to squeeze the bridge of his nose letting out another sigh. You put your hand on his knee and gave it a light squeeze.
“I’ am sorry you’re going through this.”
He looked up at you with a smile, placing his hand on top of yours that was still on his knee giving it a light squeeze back.
****
The week had gone by in a blink of an eye. The Alex case went to trail and he was found guilty. You hadn’t seen Rafael the whole week, he seemed to be laying low. The seminar was on that weekend, and the only thing you were looking forward to about that was the fact that he was going to be there.
That Friday night, Nick, Sonny and Amanda were coming over for dinner and drinks. Your guys usual Friday night if you weren’t working. Sonny was going to cook and you brought one too many bottles of wine.  You really didn’t know how you were going to face your old Captain or any other of the squad that would be there. The only person that knew everything that happened to you was Amanda.
“You should have invited Barba tonight.” Nick laughed taking a sip of wine
“Because he would want to hang around you.” You looked over at him putting a fork full of pasta in your mouth.
“Well no, but I bet he would want to hang out with you” They all laughed at you as you went bright red.
After dinner, you and Amanda were washing and drying up on your fourth bottle of wine.
“I bet you guys are excited to catch up with your old squad tomorrow.” Sonny said cheerfully
Amanda felt you tense next to her and your whole attitude changed.
“Yeah it will be good to catch up with them, right Y/N?””
“Yeah” you didn’t even look up from the bench trying to hold back tears. Nick and Sonny noticed your response and looked at each other.
“You OK Y/N? What’s going on?” Nick asked
“Yeah Y/N, you we…” Sonny was cut off by Amanda
“We don’t need to talk about it.” Amanda looked at them both.
“Well clearly we do if you're both acting like this” Nick spat back at her. The tears you had been holding back came spilling out uncontrollably.
“Amanda stop being so strong about it.” You sobbed at her.
Sonny rushed over wrapping his arms around you, you hiding your face in his chest. Nick walked over to Amanda and handed her a dish cloth to dry her hands.
“Sonny sit her down, Amanda go sit, I’ll make coffee”
Sonny guided you over and sat you down next to him, still keeping his arm around you while you cried. Amanda sat across from you stoned faced. Nick made you all a coffee and sat down next to Amanda.
“Now, are you going to tell us what’s going on?” Nick looked between you both.
Amanda told her story first, both Nick and Sonny were shocked at what she had to say. Nick had his hand over his mouth and Sonny had his mouth slightly open hearing the details.
“But Y/N had it worse. That’s why I had to get her out of there.” Amanda looked over at you.
“Why didn’t you leave before?” Nick asked you.
“My transfers were always blocked by the Captain and I had bills to pay, I couldn’t not have a job” you wiped a tear falling down your cheek.
“How long had it gone on for?” Nick looked between you both, his face filled with rage.
“Not long after I started. Stopped a month before I left” Amanda answered them back
“Y/N?” Sonny asked softly.
You stood up from your chair and walked to your kitchen bench opening the last draw and pulling out a folder walking back and putting it on the table between Sonny and Nick. Nick grabbed it first and opened it looking through the contents passing them to Sonny when he finished looking at them.
“He done this to you?” Nick said through gritted teeth frowning at the pictures he was looking at. Sonny had tears in his eyes after he read the medical report and saw the first photo. He couldn’t look at anymore. He reached over and took you into his arms squeezing you tight.
The 4 of you had become best of friends pretty quickly after you started, and the fact that someone had done this to their best friends, they were equally both mad and sad. There wasn’t any romantic feelings between any of you, you guys were just extremely close.
“Yeah. It was the worst attack of them all, he was mad I went over his head to transfer and it was approved by Liv before he could block it. It was my punishment for leaving, and he wanted to leave marks so I would remember him. It was the week I told him I was leaving. Once Amanda left, I always made sure I was never in the bullpen by myself. I was finishing off some paperwork one afternoon and didn’t even realise everyone had left, he called me to his office, I stood in the door frame, but he pulled me in and…..” You trailed off and started to cry. “I went to the hospital straight after. My last two weeks I used my sick days and never went back. When Amanda was there it happened maybe once a month if that, mostly touching, she never left me alone. Once he caught on that we were working together, he would put Amanda on cases with someone else, so she would have to go out, leaving me alone. The boys club knew what was going on, but they never did anything to stop it. But after she left the touching started up again more regularly and it escalated. He recorded that attack and told me that if I told anyone he would show the rest of the squad and send it to my new Lieutenant to show her what a slut I was.”  
“You need to tell Barba, he can put him away.” Sonny said into your ear.
“What no way. No one can ever know, you two have to promise me, promise us not to say a word. I don’t want that tape to see the light of day.”
“Amanda did he record you?” Nick looked over at her.
“Not that I know of, but only he would know”
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