LOVED the last Leah smut it got me thinking would you be interested in writing something inspired by the new Dyson commercial that one scene where she's on her knees?
Your girlfriend is insanely competitive. Leah is always doing the most to win whenever there's any sort of competition. Especially when it comes to football. It doesn't matter if it's an important match or a friendly, Leah wants to win. But that's not how football works. Losing is a part of the game.
A part of the game Leah definitely doesn't know how to handle.
The skipper all but slapped your hand away when you went to her after the final whistle. You watched with a frown as she went straight for the tunnels, ignoring or snapping at anyone who tried to talk to her.
This is why the blonde is in this position right now. It's not a punishment, you know that's not what Leah needs, just a little something to help her forget about the match and arsenal's horrible performance.
"You look so pretty baby, taking my cock like a good slut."
Leah whines and tries to hide her face in her arms that are tied in front her. Your girlfriend always looked amazing from this view. Ass up, exposing her wet pussy for you to take, with her upper body pushed down on the bed. What makes it even better though is the gorgeous jersey she is currently wearing. It belongs to you with your number and your last name proudly printed on the back. You pull the fabric down a little bit, just to make sure that you can see your name clearly before you start slowly grinding your hips against Leah's.
You've teased the blonde quite a lot today and you're more than impressed with how well she's taken it. You've been completely still inside her for some time now, simply content on snapping pictures of her rather than actually fucking her. Leah is dripping, her juices smeared on her inner thighs and her muscles twitch pathetically at the slightest of movement.
You enjoy having her like this, when she's so desperate a single touch sends her into overdrive.
You rub the soft flesh of her ass appreciatively and hum in delight when Leah's breath hitches. The slow grind of your hips doesn't stop as you start to paw and squeeze at her ass and Leah whimpers and squirms. She mumbles something, her voice muffled by her hands. "I didn't hear you baby."
Leah throws a glance over her shoulder, her blue eyes full of desperate tears when they meet yours, and she whines needily.
"Please mommy, fuck me. I need you."
You grin menacingly when Leah finally begs like the sweet girl she is. You pull out all the way before slamming back in with a powerful thrust. Leah moans loudly and her head falls back down in between her tied hands. You go with slow but hard and deep thrusts making sure to hit all the spots that make her squeal and scream. You groan at the sight of the usually dominant captain on her knees for you moaning and whining like a whore and you pick up your phone once more this time angling the phone so you can capture her greedy cunt swallowing your strap. Leah clenches hard around the strap when she hears the clicking sound of your phone's camera and you smirk down at her.
"God you're such a pathetic slut for mommy." Leah doesn't answer but you don't expect her too, the blonde's brain so high on pleasure that the only thing she can do is moan and scream for you. After you put your phone down you rub over her clit with your free hand and thrashes against the soft sheets of the bed.
"Oh god! Please mommy I wanna come!"
You offer nothing but a chuckle at Leah's pleas as you continue to pound her into the mattress mercilessly. You feel Leah's clit throb against your fingers and you push her head against the sheets when the blonde starts begging again. Leah gets the message and shuts up, hoping that she can hold on long enough because the last thing she wants is to come without permission. You feel the other end of the strap pushing deep in you and you chase your own high, forgetting about Leah for a while.
You groan and grip Leah's hips tightly while your hips stutter and your pace turns fast and sloppy. "You're so fucking tight baby. I'm gonna to come. You want mommy to come inside your pretty cunt?"
"Yes, please!"
You moan quietly and topple over leah as you feel your orgasm approach quickly. Leah on the other hand couldn't fight back her tears. She was bitting her lip hard trying not to come, she oh so desperately wants to be a good girl for you. You take a while to gather yourself after you come. When you do you turn your head towards Leah, moving her hair away from her face and you coo when you notice the tear tracks on her cheeks. You press chaste kisses on her skin and rub her clit again. Leah moans and grinds her hips down on your hand. You pull back to focus on your thrusts not wanting to tease Leah any longer.
"Come for me pretty girl. I know you want to."
Leah comes with a scream after a few seconds but you don't stop your movements, helping Leah ride out her high. After a few minutes of pressing soft kisses all over Leah's face you pull out slowly.
You always feel bad whenever Leah looses a match. Mainly because of how sad she gets. But when you think about how she lets you ravish her after you secretly hope arsenal looses every game.
Pairing: Mobster Steve Rogers x Mobster daughter reader
Warnings: References to mafia, reference to violence and violent acts, references to sexual violence. Strong language. This is a dark fic. Please read responsibly.
Disclaimer: The author of this work claims no ownership of characters aside from the reader, and original secondary characters mentioned. This work is not intended for those under the age of 18 due to explicit sexual content and darker themes. By reading this work or any works on my blog (jtargaryen18), you agree that you are at least 18 years of age. I do not consent to have my work hosted on any third party app or site. If you are seeing this fanfiction anywhere but archiveofourown and tumblr, it has been reposted without my permission.
Summary: For @alexakeyloveloki. Your father is the head of one of the most powerful crime families in Boston but he’s protected you from that life. In your quiet home outside the city, you’ve been cared for and protected. When the desires of a more powerful man with the will to dominate bursts into your life, all your illusions are shattered as he comes to claim what is his.
You had just sat down at the dining room table for breakfast and it was quiet. Luca stepped around the corner from the kitchen, winking at you when he spotted you. Before he could bring out your breakfast, Dyson came wandering out of the kitchen, coffee cup in hand. Pulling out a chair at the other side of the table, he took a seat and joined you.
"How are preparations going?" you asked, delighted that you were allowed to ask now.
Dyson nodded. He wasn't a bit surprised by your question.
"Things are coming along," he told you. "I called up some extra men first thing this morning. Clint and Scott are making the rounds, making sure we won't have security issues. We'll have it locked down well before everyone starts arriving."
You nodded, smiled. "Sounds good."
Luca hustled out with your breakfast, serving you fluffy eggs and fruit. You thanked him, grinning as he pulled out a chair next to Dyson.
"What time is everyone getting here?" he asked Dyson.
"Four," Dyson told him. "That's the meeting time the boss set anyway."
Luca nodded, his gaze roaming to you. "What are you up to today, boss?" he asked.
Boss had you grinning. Plus, like Dyson, you could tell he was a little worried about how today would go from your perspective. You really appreciated that they noticed and cared.
"Nothing out of the ordinary," you told him after a moment. "I'm going to get in a little exercise, spend some time with Nat."
The two men exchanged a look and you had to laugh. "What are the two of you so worried about?" you asked. "Steve called a meeting today with the heads of the families to make sure everyone is on the same page. It's a good place to start. It'll put all the rumors to rest and Steve can start leading the families outright."
Luca's expression was bordering on comical. "I mean no disrespect but... You know you're not going to the meeting, right?"
That did have you laughing. "Yes, I'm aware."
"What's so funny?" Yelena's voice came from behind you as she walked into the dining room.
"These two making sure I'm okay with the meeting today," you explained.
Nodding, Yelena made her way to the kitchen. You turned your attention back to the two older men across the table from you.
"Thank you for caring about me," you said, "but I'm fine with not being in that meeting. I promise."
"You are?" Dyson asked, skeptical.
"I am," you assured him. "Steve is letting me be part of the family business now. I don't need to be at the meeting."
Was that pride flashing in Dyson's eyes? He nodded as Yelena returned with her breakfast, taking a seat next to you.
"Any word on Barnes?" she asked.
Dyson blew out an exhale. "Someone is coming from the Barnes family," he said slowly. "I got an RSVP."
Luca scrubbed a hand over his face. "Could be sending Killmonger," he said.
"Barnes will be here himself," you said. It was just an instinct but you knew you were right.
Setting his coffee mug on the table, Dyson's gaze met yours. "I think so too. He almost has to. Same reason as Steve. He has to show everyone he's still here."
"Male posturing," Yelena added and you chuckled.
"Let's hope not," Dyson said. "Things are more than a little tense right now."
That had you thinking... "Do the other families know what Barnes pulled? I mean, do they know he tried to take Steve and his family down?"
"The Starks do," Luca said. "The Wilsons and Odinsons? I'm sure they're aware. They just tend to stay out of the drama unless it involves them."
"That's smart," Yelena added.
"Or they lack the muscle," you said.
Dyson nodded, indicating you were right.
"If Barnes decides to try anything, we're ready right?" you had to ask.
"We are," Dyson told you. "But along that line of thinking, we need to think about where you're going to be during this meeting."
"Yes, we do," Yelena said.
You understood. "I'm sure Nat, Yelena and I can find something to do. Where would we be safest?"
"Steve's study," Dyson said instantly. "We have a quick way to get you out if all hell breaks loose."
You made a mental note of that. "Just let me know when we need to be where."
"Do you think she'll be okay?" Nat asked for the third time in an hour.
You sighed. You didn't know the young woman who Hansen held prisoner. It was disconcerting that she looked like you. Even though you had nothing to do with it, you still felt a heavy sense of responsibility. You'd arranged for her to fly back home to her family, sent Barnes' money with her. The best thing you could do for her was to get her out of Boston and back to where she had a support network. You made sure she had a way to reach you in case she ever needed anything.
"Barnes wasn't kidding when he said he was giving her a generous gift," you said. "It's a lot of money. I know that in no way makes up for what she went through but... She was in college. I'm just hoping she can take that and make a fresh start somewhere else. Finish her education. I hope in time she's able to heal."
Yelena was quiet in her seat next to Nat, across Steve's desk from you. You understood why. Yelena had been the sick bastard's captive too. Since you'd known Yelena, Hansen was the only thing that scared her. You knew why your friend and personal protection dressed in the suits she wore. Yes, she was trying to be like any other soldier, to earn respect. But it made your heart sink to think about the physical scars she was hiding. Scars that Hansen branded her with.
If the bastard was alive, and you thought he was, he'd better pray he never crossed your path again.
"What did doc have to say today?" Yelena asked Nat, changing the subject. "Everything is healing well?"
Nat smiled. "Everything is healing. But then, I didn't get shot so..."
You laughed at that. "That's just about the only thing the bastard didn't do to you."
"I'm glad he's gone," Nat said after a moment.
You exchanged a look with Yelena, both of you happy to hear that. You knew Clint was happy about her reaction to her abusive husband's death. While you understood why he took Banner out with Yelena's help, you knew he was worried about the impact of his actions on the woman he loved.
"I am too," you told her. "Now you can just be with Clint the way you always should have been."
Nat's deep sigh was the only sound in the quiet office. "I'm not the only one worried about today, am I?"
It was actually a relief that she addressed the elephant in the room.
"No," you admitted. "I don't like this any better than you do. But it has to be done."
"Why wouldn't Steve let you attend the meeting?" she asked.
"He never said I couldn't." That was the truth. "It was my decision to sit this out."
You couldn't tell which woman was more surprised. Yelena knew you were good with not going but she didn't know that. That had you smiling.
"It's not the right time," you told them. "It may never be the right time for anyone outside our family to know that I'm part of Steve's council. And if that's how it goes, I'm fine with that. I got what I wanted."
"It's more than what you wanted," Yelena pointed out. "It's where you need to be."
You appreciated her faith in you. Nat's smiled told you she agreed. You weren't worried about weighing in on situations as they arose to keep the family, all of you, safe. You knew you could help.
"I am a little nervous today," you told them, "because Barnes is coming."
"He RSVP'd?" Yelena asked.
You shook your head. "Not necessarily. Dyson said they indicated someone was coming but they didn't name Barnes. But he'll be here. He almost has to. He has to show everyone he's fit. Just like Steve does."
"After everything he did to this family," Nat said, "he gets to just waltz into our home for this meeting?"
You nodded. "He does. For now. And Steve has to be careful here. The other families have heard things. This is Steve's chance to set the record straight. To make sure everyone knows exactly what happened."
"And then what?" Nat's face was darkening in her rising anger. "We just go on like nothing happened?"
"No, then we gauge where the other families' allegiences lie," you explained. "Until we know that, we don't know how best to move forward."
"Tony Stark and Sam Wilson have been friends with my brother since high school," Nat said. "They better not even think about siding with Barnes on this. Not after everything he did."
Yelena nodded her agreenment.
"Steve doesn't think we have anything to worry about with the Starks or the Wilsons," you said. "The others? We'll see."
"What if the other families decide they don't have a problem with Barnes' bullshit?" Nat was really pissed about this.
"The only ones left are the Odinsons," Yelena pointed out.
You knew there was practically no chance of that happening but...
"If that should happen, and I doubt it will, we'll deal with it," you told her. "Barnes will be dealt with. It's the how he's dealt with that we have to be careful with."
"Didn't we lose men over this shit?" Nat asked.
"So did Barnes," Yelena said. "Plus he lost Hansen and that's a big blow for him."
Nat wasn't done. You could tell the way she was staring you down. She was just trying to decide how to frame what she wanted to say.
"Aren't you afraid?" she asked you. "Of Barnes? You could have killed him at that little meeting in the park."
Yes, you were scared of Barnes. Very much so. But the only person you'd admitted that to was Yelena. Steve had overheard you but in your defense, you'd thought he was in a coma and couldn't hear you. You steeled yourself to answer her because you weren't going to let anyone else know just how worried about Barnes you were.
"Steve will keep me safe," you told her meaningfully. "He'll keep all of us safe. The day in the park? We intended to kill Barnes that day. If I hadn't panicked at the last moment..."
From the window behind Steve's desk, you could see the cars arriving. The screen of your phone showed it was 3:35 PM. The meeting would start soon.
"You did so well," Yelena picked it up from there. "You should have seen her, Nat. He had no idea who was she until she wanted him to know. I'm not sure I could have done that."
"Bullshit," you said, smiling. "You would have done a better job. And you had to deal with him because I froze."
"It's my job to protect you," Yelena reminded you. "Not the other way around."
A light tap at the door got your attention. Clint was stationed outside the office, neither him or Nat would allow otherwise. His gaze met yours and he crooked a finger at you.
Walking around the desk, you went to the door, walking out when Clint motioned you. Clint walked into the office and closed the door, leaving you in the quiet of the hallway with your husband.
Smiling, you let him pull you into his arms. Steve was healing but he wasn't back to full strength yet. Still, he felt more solid and alive in your arms now. The blood red tie stood out against the polished silver suit he wore. The sent of his cologne, of him, invaded your senses, made you wish you could stay here a while.
Easing back, your stretched up to kiss his mouth and Steve took you off guard. His kiss was searing, demanding. He took your breath away, his kiss seeking and lusty. You tasted the need of so many nights when you couldn't make love, when you didn't know if you'd lose him. Your own need was just as strong and you rotated your hips against him, feeling the heated hard ridge you were hoping for.
"Stop," he whispered against your lips. "You keep doing that and I'll fuck you right here in this hallway."
You grinned up at him. "How much time do we have?"
Steve smiled. "Don't tempt me."
"It's almost time," you told him. "You've got this."
"Yes, I do." Steve's entire demeanor backed up his words. "And once this meeting is over, we'll have a better idea of where we go from here."
"You'll tell me everything, right?"
"I promised, didn't I?" Steve brushed a kiss on your forehead, his gaze locking with yours. "Stay in the office with Belova and Nat. If Clint wants you to move, you do it with no question. You understand?"
"I do," you told him, trying to fight back your fear. Your entire world felt like it was balancing on a knife's edge and you just wanted it to be over. To move on.
Steve shook his head, chuckling. "I'm not used to you being so acquiescent. I could get used to this."
"Don't," you told him. "Because I'm not always going to be so easy to get along with."
"At least you're honest," Steve said. He stole one more kiss that had your heart hammering against his. Every part of you was in knots right now. From tension, fear, and lust. When he broke the kiss, his breath and yours came fast. "Let me get through this meeting... I need you so much right now."
Just as much as you needed him.
"Just make sure you're up to it," you said. "I want you too but I'm willing to wait if that's what's best for you."
"You are what's best for me," he said with feeling.
It was then you spotted a tiny spot of your lipstick, smudged on the collar of his pristine white shirt. "Shit," you muttered, reaching to see if you could get it off.
Steve caught your hand. "Leave it," he said. "I want Barnes to see it."
You just wished more than anything that Barnes wasn't coming to your home. A sense of foreboding had you shivering.
"Go back in the office," Steve told you. "I love you."
"I love you too," you whispered.
Steve tapped on the office door and Clint came out the door in an instant, ushering you back into Steve's study to Nat and Yelena. Somehow, with their company, you made it through the next two hour while the meeting took place.
"They're all here, boss," Dyson said from behind him.
Downing the rest of his Scotch, Steve set the empty glass on Luca's small kitchen table and blew out an exhale. It was time.
"Barnes is here?" he asked.
"Sure is," Dyson said. "Brought Killmonger and Zemo with him."
Turning to face his man, Steve prepared himself.
"You're going to handle this, you know?" Dyson said.
"As long as I know she's safe, yeah, I am going to handle it."
"Nothing is going to happen to her," Dyson said meaningfully. "I promise you that."
Well, then...
Steve headed for the conference room, not stopping until he reached it. When he opened the door to let himself in, he saw his own men posted around the room, led by Scott who stood just behind the chair at the head of the table. His.
Steve's gaze met that of Tony Stark, then Sam. Thor Odinson watched him with cool blue eyes, his raven-haired brother Loki sitting by his side. They were the only unknowns in the room. Steve knew he had Tony and Sam's loyalty.
Then there was the man of the hour, Bucky Barnes himself, situated between the Odinsons and the Wilsons. Killmonger and Zemo stood behind his chair. Barnes had no trouble meeting Steve's gaze but he was thinner than the last time he saw him, his pallor uncharacteristically pale. Belova and his wife had done a number on him.
And Barnes would seek revenge. Steve would need to be a lot more vigilant in protecing his wife, his family. Everyone considered Hansen was out of the picture, but it would be unwise to forget about him. And Killmonger had always been the one he respected most. He was quiet, calculating, and deadly efficient.
"Gentlemen, thank you for coming," Steve said to the room. Taking his time, he took his seat.
It didn't feel the same sitting there now. He'd only held one other such meeting as head of the families. That day he'd been excited, eager to take over, to rule. He'd been naive.
Things were different now. Yes, he'd sat on the throne, won the wife and her heritage. And he'd almost lost all of it because of arrogance. As he took in the heads of the other four familes, one by one, he knew he'd never take this position for granted again. Now he could feel the weight of all the responsibilities that came with it. Steve wanted to make his father proud. Her father proud.
Mostly, he wanted to keep pride in his wife's eyes. The way she'd looked at him in the hallway. She believed in him. She loved him. And there was nothing he wouldn't do for her.
Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Dyson standing behind him. Yeah, he didn't want to let him down either. Dyson was his right hand, yes. But he was a father to him. He was a father to her.
He had no intention of failing Dyson either.
"What's on the agenda today?" Tony asked with his characteristic smirk.
"I'm just going to be direct," Steve began. "There has been some dissension in our ranks."
"Dissension?" Thor asked.
Steve nodded. "Since I took the leadership of our five families, my family has been attacked numerous times." He caught Barnes' gaze and held it as he continued. "Barton was shot, Lloyd Hansen brought goons to my house in an attempt to kidnap my wife, my wife and my sister have suffered considerable injuries, and all the while my leadership has been called into question."
On that last, Barnes grinned. But before he could speak, Steve absolutely could not let anyone steal the floor from him at this meeting, Steve cut him off.
"All of it stops today," Steve said slowly, dragging out each word.
Loki grinned from his seat, his gaze sweeping around the room. "This is going to be fun."
His brother Thor looked skeptical. "Word on the street is that Banner is the one who shot Barton. Barton was having the man's wife, right under his nose. He dealt with his wife. None of these personal items have any place in this meeting."
"Dealt with his wife? My sister?" Steve kept his demeanor nonchalant but on this inside he was fuming. "That's what I thought too until I learned Banner had been talking with Barnes about business without my knowledge. My own consigliere. See, Barnes' consigliere is about to retire. Banner was under the impression that if he helped Barnes bring my family down, he'd be serving the Barnes family as their new consigliere. That changes things."
Thor's gaze cut to Barnes who now wore his poker face. Still, he looked unrepentent.
"No one has seen Banner," Thor pointed out. "Has that been dealt with? If what you say is true, that's quite a betrayal."
There it was. A subtle challenge to his leadership, but a challenge nonetheless.
"Banner has been dealt with," Steve said. "Barton found him hiding in Stark's turf... Why was he hiding there? Why wasn't he under your protection, Barnes?"
The pure anger in Barnes' steely blue eyes told Steve he was hitting his mark. When he remained silent, Steve continued.
"I allowed Barton to deal with Banner how he wanted. And anyone else who ever tries to deal with my sister? That man will meet the same fate. Is that in any way unclear?"
A low murmur across the table. Tony wasn't doing even trying to hide his enjoyment of the meeting so far.
"You had proof of Barnes' traitorous actions before you made these decisions?" Thor asked, not letting it go. "I'm sure you realize these are serious allegations."
"Do I owe you or anyone a fucking explanation?" Steve shot back, pissed.
"Yeah, you do," Barnes chimed in. "Because the evidence suggests you're not managing your own turf all that well, boss." He put an ugly emphasis on the word "Boss." "You've taken hits to businesses you're supposed to be protecting. People who depend on you are losing business, people are getting hurt."
Smiling at the reminder, Steve sighed. "People getting hurt. Like the murder and rape your men committed in that shop on my turf? Like the girl you allowed Hansen to kidnap from a donut shop in my territory? She got hurt. He kept her for days."
"I didn't give him that order," Barnes said cooly.
"Doesn't matter," Stave said. "He still acted under your authority."
Barnes was now staring him down and Steve silently willed him to say something else. Say it. Tell them you were poisoned by my wife's guard. See how much respect you get for that sloppy shit.
"Anything else?" Steve dared him.
Cold silence.
"I get that you're still raw I took the lead," Steve told him, rising from his chair. "That's why you promised Banner a position at your side that I don't think you ever meant to give him. It's also why you turned Loguidice against me, got him to give you inside intel. You got him killed by Hansen."
"That was on Hansen." Barnes couldn't produce much color in his anger, likely from the poison, but his face darkened enough for Steve to see that he was really getting to him. "He knifed me, betrayed orders."
Like my wife's guard knifed you? A woman?
"You all know why, right?" Steve walked around the table even though Dyson had advised him against it. But he liked to pace when he talked. "Hansen and Neal took Dyson which I think was your plan. Right? They were supposed to draw me out, finish me off."
Thor listened intently to the exchange, not as amused as his brother seemed. No, he was dead serious and Steve had him on the hook.
"Hansen decided to lure my wife out instead," Steve told them. "Shot Loguidice in the face. What did you promise Neal for turning on me anyway?"
Barnes' smile didn't reach his eyes. "I didn't have to promise either of them much at all."
"The point is," Steve went on, "that you couldn't even control Hansen. Your own man. And you think you'd make a better leader of these families than me?"
Barnes was out of his chair, ready to lunge at Steve. Killmonger struggled to hold onto him.
Steve chuckled, watching the scene he'd created. Around the table, Tony and Sam watched passively, the Odinsons were attentive. Dyson looked proud and that was everything to him in that moment.
"Are you really the one leading your family, Rogers?" Barnes yelled. "Because all the nasty little presents you sent me just didn't seem like your style."
"What are you implying?" Thor asked him.
"Word has it Rogers got shot that day," Barnes said to the room. "After that, I got some none-to-subtle reminders of the bad blood between us. But they weren't his style at all. I think he got shot and he's struggling. I think Mrs. Rogers had a hand in this."
Tony's gaze moved from Barnes to Steve, almost comical interest so plain on his face.
"You're so fascinated with my wife, aren't you?" Steve said. "Why don't you tell them all of it?"
Tell them that you were bested by a woman and let's be done with it.
"Wait," Loki said with an artificial calm that didn't match the sheer glee in his eyes at the scene he was witnessing."Not to be indelicate, but isn't Mrs. Rogers your half-sister, Barnes?"
If looks could kill, Loki would have been dead on the floor. Steve had a hard time not laughing at that.
"She's not my anything," Barnes hissed, still struggling in Killmonger's hold. "She's an evil fucking bitch that you'll regret marrying one day, Rogers! I'd watch my back if I were you! Remember what her mother did to my family?"
"I thought she was a ballerina," Tony chimed in. "Huh."
Loki laughed out loud as Barnes managed to shake off his man's hold and charged at Steve. Scott and another of Steve's men caught him first. That didn't stop Steve from approaching, getting up in his enemy's face.
"You got shot, didn't you?" Barnes demanded.
"If I got shot," Steve said, "why are you the one who looks physically weak right now? Something you want to tell us?"
Steve could have shamed him there. He could have told the entire room what really happened to Barnes. But considering what Barnes had just shouted to the room about his wife, it was best to draw no more attention to her.
"I'm the head of these families, Barnes," Steve said in a calmer tone. "I won't tolerate any other challenges to this position."
The warning was clear, the room quiet now. Shoving Scott to the side, Killmonger took Barnes' arm to take control of the situation. Barnes' had broken out in a sweat, his face unnaturally pale and he was struggling to breathe.
"We understand," Killmonger said to Steve, struggling to keep his boss up because he looked ready to pass out.
Steve tipped his head towards the conference room door, giving his consent for Killmonger to get him out of there. Zemo, looking more than a little alarmed, followed them out.
The tone of the meeting was much calmer with their departure, tension thick in the air. Even Thor had nothing else to say as Steve went over his plans for the families moving forward. When the meeting dismissed, Steve lingered until it was only him and Dyson, Scott and another soldier outside the door.
"You made the statement," Dyson told him. "That means if Barnes so much as breathes wrong, you know what you have to do."
Steve nodded. He would have to take Barnes and his family out, ensuring nothing was left.
"I wouldn't have said it if I didn't mean it," Steve told him.
Dyson nodded. "Still, it was a good meeting. It set the right tone."
Steve nodded but inside, he was elated. Dyson approved of the way the meeting was handled, how he dealt with Barnes. It was a new start, it was everything.
He couldn't wait to tell you about it.
When Yelena didn't answer your question, you glanced her way.
She was looking out the window. "The meeting couldn't be over yet," she said.
Was someone leaving?
Getting up, you walked to the window. Your first instinct was stand back and not make it obvious you were watching.
But wasn't this your house? You could stand in the window if you wanted to.
So you did. And sure enough, one sleek black luxury sedan was moving in the circular drive. It startled you when it stopped in line-of-sight from your window. The rear passenger window powered down and Buck Barnes was staring out that window in your direction. At you.
After a moment, the car started moving and the window went back up. You shivered at what the simple gesture meant for your future. The meeting only started fifteen minutes ago. That wasn't a good sign. At least no one else seemed to be leaving.
I'll get you!
Bucky Barnes' threat ran through your mind as you watched his car drive away.
A/N: There's a marathon smut scene coming next and it was either shorten it and tack it onto this chapter or make it a chapter on its own so... Very soon. Thank you!
Synopsis: what comforting moments the seventeen members remind me of
no pairing | fluff, comfort | approx. 2.4k words | warnings: mental heath, insecurities
A/n: because svt brought me so much comfort this past year, here's a little headcanon. i'm wishing everyone a good year ahead ❤️
🍒 Seungcheol - spending quality time with people you care about
Seungcheol is the type of person who really treasures those who care close to him. He shows his appreciation to them in different ways by giving them gifts, like Jeonghan’s Dyson airwrap, or telling them how much he cares for them. But I feel like one major way he shows his love and appreciation is just to spend quality time with them. They don’t have to be doing something fun. They don’t even need to be engaged in some deep, emotional conversation. The time spent together could simply be a quiet day at home spent in comfortable silence. It’s all about spending time in each other’s presence and taking that in. Time is precious. Especially amid the hustle and bustle of life, being able to carve out time shows just how much the other person means to you. It means that they are a priority in your life, and vice versa. Seungcheol encapsulates those moments of love.
😇 Jeonghan - watching the sunset
Perhaps this is me projecting because Jeonghan is one of my comfort people? One of my favourite quotes is “Even the darkest night will end, and the sun will rise again” from Les Miserables. I know the quote is more of a sunrise, but to me, sunsets signal the end of a hard day. You haven’t exactly gotten over the intense emotions yet, everything still feels very raw. All the emotions like anxiety or sadness washes over you. But as you see the sunset, you just know that at least for now, the day is over. There’s a certain peace of mind that comes with that thought, and I would view Jeonghan as that. He’s such a silent pillar of support for the members. They can go to him with any problems and he will gladly lend a listening ear. Sure, the problems might remain and the emotions are heightened, but Jeonghan’s presence, empathy and willingness to listen would provide so much comfort for his members. Not unlike the feelings that come with watching the sunset, Jeonghan is that moment of emotional reprieve.
🦌 Joshua - spending time by the ocean
Joshua represents the feelings you get when you’re by the ocean. Joshua is a fun loving guy, and playing by the ocean is certainly fun. You can play in the sand, build sandcastles, have a picnic, and you can run into the ocean only to laugh and run away when the tide comes rushing over your feet. At the heart of it all, Joshua embodies everything that is gentle. He’s like the soft breeze brushing against your face, the sounds of the tide slowly cascading onto the beach. He’s the happiness and peace that washes over you as you dip yourself into the ocean and let the waves slowly rock you back and forth. Best of all, he’s that feeling of serenity you get from just breathing in the salty ocean air as you look out onto the vast horizon. When you look out at the picturesque view, Joshua is that moment of serenity that comes to soothe your aching body and soul.
🐱 Junhui - snuggling under a blanket to take a nap
Junhui has a certain air of innocence around him, something I would associate with the innocence of childhood. The feeling of curiosity that made you want to grow up. It’s just that when you do, that innocence goes away. You become tired and drained from being busy all the time and having way too many responsibilities. At least when it gets too much, you can take a nap right? It’s a luxury. But there’s just something nostalgic about being able to tuck yourself under a blanket to take a nap. Feeling the weight of the blanket, letting the warmth completely envelop you as you slowly drift off. It’s not that you feel childish from taking a nap, nor is it childish in the first place for wanting to take a rest. It’s about that nostalgic feeling that makes you long for the time when you were younger and hadn’t dealt with what life had thrown at you. Napping makes you feel like an innocent kid again within your own little bubble away from the harshness of life. In that sense, Junhui represents the moments that heal your inner child.
🐯 Hoshi - feeling passionate or excited about something
If there is one thing about Hoshi, you can never doubt the amount of passion he has. It doesn’t matter what that passion is directed at, he never seems to run out of it. Be it his passion for dancing, his members, tigers or even his passion for throwing Mingyu under the bus during the mafia game. I also wouldn’t say that it’s simply when you allow yourself to get caught up in the moment. Passion is more complex than that. Feeling passionate about something, someone. It’s a feeling that excites you and it’s that feeling drives you forward to pursue whatever and whoever it is that is at the center of it. It doesn’t just make you feel alive, it makes you feel that life is worth living. It allows you to turn that passion into determination, strength to push forward even if you encounter any hardship. Honestly I don’t know what else to write because to me, Hoshi represents the moments when you allow your emotions to take over completely, when you allow your emotions to guide you forward.
🐈⬛ Wonwoo - solo dates
We all know that Wonwoo is extremely reserved, he is an introvert who does enjoy spending time alone. Sure he loves his members, but he definitely needs time alone to recharge. Wonwoo reminds me of solo dates. When you just take yourself out. You could be engaging in your hobbies like photography. But it’s not only about that. It’s about really treating yourself to things and experiences that you enjoy. You can’t put a price on the relaxation and peace that going on solo dates brings. Of course you don’t have to spend money on your solo date either. Your solo date could be at the new restaurant you wanted to try, or at the old restaurant you are a regular at. Maybe it could be at the beach or park. You could even indulge a little and try the expensive spa treatment, or you could get the $3 McDonalds McFlurry. Ultimately, you’re doing what you want to indulge yourself. I see Wonwoo really enjoying that, so I would think that Wonwoo represents the moments when you exercise self-love and self-care.
🍚 Woozi - time spent creating
Woozi has done and created so much for seventeen. The sheer amount of creative energy that this man has is indescribable. As such, I would see Woozi as the time you can spend creating. There are no boundaries or rules for being creative. You can literally do what you want. You want to paint a picture of a cute cat, do photography, paint your nails, write a seventeen act play. Go right ahead. Sadly, no matter how inspired you are, sometimes insecurities get to you. It holds you back from creating because you don’t think it will be good enough. My question is good enough for who? It’s your work and others’ opinions should not, and do not matter. You should be proud of what you can create. Woozi would certainly share that sentiment. Because of that, I strongly stand by the opinion that Woozi would be the moment you are able to let go of your insecurities or inhibitions to create something that would definitely mean a lot to you.
⚔️ Dokyeom - genuinely laughing
I don’t just mean letting out a haha laugh or writing an lol that we often do with a relatively straight face. I’m talking about laughter that comes from our bellies. The type that makes you tear from spending so much energy being hunched over and clutching yourself. The type that physically sheds all the tension from your body. Dokyeom reminds me of that. His laughter is contagious. His smile and energy is bright. He’s not afraid to laugh or be playful. He’s naturally funny and his cheeky antics bring so much joy and laughter to us and the rest of seventeen. Dokyeom represents that ability to lose yourself in a moment of laughing at something or someone that you find hilarious. He represents the feeling of being able to just feel something other than all the complex, possibly negative emotions in life. Dokyeom is the moment when you feel alive.
🐸 Minghao - taking a walk through a trail in a forested area
Being able to walk through a trail in a forested area is a much needed change of scenery from the stifling, chaotic cities that we live in. Minghao gives off the feeling of emotional and mental stability, something I would associate with the tranquillity of nature. Walking down a path amongst all the trees, feeling the warmth of the sunshine hit my face. Yet feeling the coolness that comes with the shade of the trees. It’s sad that we often forget how beautiful nature is, that we forget how we should appreciate and experience nature. In the same way that Minghao would close his eyes when he meditates, closing our eyes when we are surrounded by nature will help you to feel at peace with yourself and your surroundings. Listening to the sounds of the animals like the cicadas or birds, taking in the scent of pine trees or flowers. It’s not about being one with nature, it’s more about being present. Minghao is certainly that moment of learning how to be present, and more importantly, how to feel present within your surroundings.
🐶 Mingyu - waking up early in the morning
Not everyone is a morning person I get it. Somehow Mingyu makes me think that he’s an early riser, someone who would like to get a head start to the day. I would think of him as this time in the morning just after the sun has risen that is calm and quiet. It’s the time before the city or wherever you are gets busy. The sun casts its rays into your house, giving it the most beautiful illuminated glow. It makes your otherwise normal house look ethereal. Especially if you have the day off, that time of the day is also perfect because you get to prepare yourself for the day without the pressure of having to be prepared for anything specific. You can afford to take your time and just go around your house. You can make your breakfast, do your skincare routine, choose an outfit for the day. Or, you could just sit with a cup of coffee, tea, or whatever drink you prefer and chill out on the couch. Having that time to yourself is precious and it gives you time to prepare yourself mentally for the day. Perhaps you even anticipate getting out there. Mingyu is definitely that moment, the moment where you feel ready to take on the day no matter what it throws at you.
🍊 Seungkwan - listening to heavy rainfall
The sound of rain falling is soothing. The rhythmic way that it drips and splashes onto your window or the ground. Hearing the pitter patter of the rain drops while you’re inside does something to you. Perhaps it’s the melancholic feeling that the grey sky makes you feel, or perhaps it is the heavy water droplets that fall harshly to the ground. Whatever it is, it has a soothing effect, making you feel instantly calmer. It heals you. Similarly, Seungkwan has the most beautiful, soothing voice. His voice is soft, melodic. He knows how and when to regulate the tone and strength of his voice. He has the talent and ability to put different emotions into the song when it’s needed. When you hear him sing, you can’t help but give up control over your emotions. Your mood automatically shifts according to the emotions he delivers through the songs. Like the sound of the rain, listening to him relaxes you. Seungkwan is the moment you allow your heart and mind to rest.
🐻❄️ Vernon - engaging in your hobbies
There are people who are quirky in the best way possible. That’s Vernon. He’s so unabashedly Vernon? The fandom jokes he’s like an alien. He likes food combinations that most people would think are weird. He wears clothes which look like they don’t match but are actually pieces from designer collections. I link this with engaging in your hobbies because everyone has different hobbies. And sometimes our hobbies would be considered weird. But it’s what we enjoy doing. It’s not about finding validation from other people, it’s about being able to be in our own little bubbles to do what we want. It’s our safe place. We engage in our hobbies not only because we think it’s fun, but it’s also an escape from life. Our hobbies, as weird as they are to others, bring us contentment and fulfilment. Everyone is weird that way, right? I would like to think that Vernon therefore represents the moments of happiness that comes with indulging in activities you enjoy.
🦦 Chan - accomplishing little things
Honestly, I struggled thinking of what to write for Chan. Similar to Hoshi, Chan is passionate, and similar to Woozi, Chan is creative. He’s capable of so much and he always excels at what he does. That’s why I would see Chan as the times when you are able to accomplish something. In life, there are so many expectations. We’re expected to do so many things at the same time, and we’re expected to do it well. If you can’t juggle the tasks, you’re deemed to be inefficient, incompetent. That kind of mindset really wears you down. It makes you feel like you’re not good enough when most of the time, you’re just worn down and stretched too thin. Instead, we should celebrate all of our achievements no matter how big or small it is. It reminds us that we aren’t as broken or useless as we think we are because we can do it. We can achieve things, which is why Chan’s ability to excel makes me believe that Chan is that moment when you manage to accomplish something. He’s that moment that you realise that you are definitely capable of more than you think.
A/N: Here's a part 2 since I had so much fun while writing the first one, I appreciate the reblogs and the comments!
I'm planning to continue this drabble and write for other characters too, so you can suggest different fandoms as well.
Note: They arent in an established relationship in Dabi's one
Characters are aged up!
Part1 w/Shoto and Katsuki
Dabi
So you and Dabi are playing this game called cat and mouse for a while since you are a pro hero and whenever the League is causing trouble, your main target is always him
Why you ask?
You see, you have this very important hero-like reason...
You think he's hot.🔥 (fair enough)
So when you and your friends get a call from the police, telling you that the League is gonna strike (act like bitchy teens) again, being the responsible server of society you are, you immediately attend the mission
After telling your hero friends Shoto, Deku, Pinky and Dynamight that you are trailing quietly behind Dabi you turn off your earphone and watch your villain crush slowly make his way into a narrow alley
Then you hear Pinky's voice in your ear "ThickThighs, you need to distract him till we get there." (Yes your hero name?)
IT IS NOW YOUR TIME TO SHINE
In a swift motion, you appear in front of him and a sly smirk makes its way onto his lips
"Well well the stalker hero is here."
"You are lucky Dabi because i like my meat burnt." (🍆)
Before he can process what nonsense you are talking about he finds himself on the ground laying on his back while you are keeping his head locked between your thighs, he quickly grabs your thighs and you feel his hands warming up
"I'll turn you into a roasted chi-"
"Want a quick head?"
The cockroach is speechless
....
"W-"
Not waiting for his brain to function, you put your juicy phat ass on his face 🍑🍑
And face toward his portal opener leg spreader zucchini, then quickly get him out of his cheap drugstore pants
Your soft hand finally meets his touch starved lonely villain dick and starts pumping him like REAL FAST
literally can create electricity with how fast you are jerking him off
too bad he cant see whats happening since all he can see is your ass on his face
but you are giving a real show to the street rats so
lucky rodents ig 🐭
He is grunting and moaning uncontrollably into your core
Legit thinks you have an extra sex-related quirk or smthn
Thought his dick was on fire and got scared for a moment bc it was getting too hot thanks to the speed of your hand so tried to pry you off of his face but you quickly caged his arms with your thighs (Even Nicki Minaj is jealous of your thighs at this point)
Eventually gives in since you are giving him the time of his life but mf wasn't ready for your brand new Dyson V12 Detect Slim Vacuum 👅👅👅
HOW ARE YOU SUCKING THAT STRONG IS THAT EVEN POSSIBLE?
boy ejaculated in 45 seconds and wants the ground to swallow him whole LMAO and to make it even worse you even compared 45 seconds to a butterflies lifespan
to make him feel better ofc
"If you look at it, it's probably like 5 years for a butterfly Dabi don't worry."
yep, he definitely wants to kill you now
Quickly gets up to scurry away, you embarrassed the baddy ok his pride is HURT he won't let you see him in this pathetic state
so he cages you with his flames and disappears once you manage to escape but not before scraping his private number on the concrete so you can see it later with his initials on the bottom
BC WHAT WAS THAT YOU ARE AMAZING
HE WANTS ANOTHER ROUND SO HE CAN TAKE REVENGE
so when you see it you are doing the happy dance you can finally see him again
not before getting interrupted with an awkward cough from your earphone tho
"We heard everything Y/n..."
Izu says
"Y/N THAT WAS MY BROTHER AND YOU KNOW THAT"
POOR SHOTO
and Katsuki is probably gagging in the background
...
"She ate tho."
Thanks, Mina
(got them villains whimpering under your ass💅)
Midoriya
So when I tell you that Midoriya worships the ground you walk on it is not an exaggeration 🛐
Baby is that in love with you and wants to spend his whole life with you so he decides to wait till marriage
Virgin Pro hero Izuku is so attractive ok no buts like he's the number one hero in the whole world so strong, undefeatable and scary to the villains
But when it comes to you he just wants everything to be so special and perfect, always smiling and making sure you're feeling loved
Baby thinks you deserve all of his firsts KHDASDKJS- CUTE
So when he gets on one knee and asks you to marry him while you guys were out on a trip to Spain you can't help but jump around in your cute summer dress while hugging him and screaming "YES" at the top of your lungs
AND NOW
.
.
.
THE TIME HAS FINALLY COME
In his head(notebook), everything is planned
-Drink champagne together
-Take a bubble bath together
-Give her a massage
-Warm up a little bit(yes literal work out)
-Make love
he totally wrote it into his notebook. 📝
It's hidden in the drawer and you dont need to know that
BUT
Before he can open the drawer and take a slight peek at his notes, you are suddenly butt naked and sitting on the bed calling for him with your sweet voice
Baby literally SCREAMED when he saw you
Because you are so gorgeous WTF
Asks if you want a drink first and you say no, then realizes the notes aren't helping him with shit so gets in front of the bed and quickly starts doing stretches
And you are giving him the *tf is he doing* look but meh you are used to his weird antics already lol
cant pull a muscle babes
so you sigh and drag him onto the bed
literally looks at you like this LOL
AND HAS A HAND RESTING ON HIS HIPS TOO
BOY WE DIDNT EVEN STARTED-
Don't get mad at him he is just that nervous
Smiling at his silliness you slowly drag him on top of you and start kissing his shaky lips and it actually helps him ease up a bit
..till you start pinching and massaging his nipples
Baby literally squeaks and tries to move away only to be stopped by your legs around his waist, caging him and pulling him towards you more
"Where are you running off to, hm?"
Bro is about to cream his boxers
HE KNOWS THAT YOU'RE A VIRGIN SO HOW ARE YOU SO EFFORTLESSLY DOMINANT?
Guess all of that smut you've read paid off well
You make him lay on his stomach while whining and whimpering with you on his back stroking his cock from behind
%100 gripping the sheets and biting down on the pillow so he doesnt disturb the people on the floor
but you have other plans so you grab his chin lift his face and shove 2 fingers in his mouth
He just obeys you like that bc he doesn't know what to do aww he is too embarrassed at this point
gets 20 spanks on his plump buttocks bc you just love seeing them jiggle
GO EASY ON HIM ITS HIS FIRST NIGHT
But you show no mercy and suggest trying the position "69"
Surprisingly he is very eager to do it, it sounds so erotic to him he ends up cumming 3 times just from your mouth and when you finally cum on his face you quickly grab your phone, open your camera and tell him to smile
Best selfie ever: Tired looking izuku with your cum on his face smiling shyly at the camera
Baby is bathing in his own sweat at this point
But is y/n done?
NO NOT EVEN CLOSE?
So the night continued like that, you acting like letting him take the lead then swapping the roles and embarrassing him non-stop milking him till his balls turn into deflated balloons 🎈
That's how the first sex tape of the Midoriya couple was created and trust me, there are many tapes to be filmed
And believe it or not, whenever he goes drinking with his hero friends, he gets so drunk that he spills every spicy detail about your sex life and everybody in the room listens to him in awe, with jealousy and mouths wide open.
A/N: AAAAHHHH FINALLY DONE HOPE YOU GUYS LIKE IT, reblogs and feedbacks r appreciated!
GMS Everest - "Hawkbit" by Felix Dyson
Via Flickr:
Spending two and a half years drifting through the rim aboard the wreck of the Aquarius gave "Faye" (callsign: Fiver) both a deeper appreciation for the fleeting nature of life, and de facto ownership of a PMC saddled with about 30 million manna in debt to an obscure trade barony. Lacking the licenses to immediately bring her Caliban up to combat spec after the extensive modifications made to turn it into an agricultural machine/life support system, Fiver has had to settle with a customized General Massive Systems Everest frame like most other Lancers across known space.
Twelve years has passed since 916 joined the mercenaries known as "Wolf Company". An upcoming mission has the PMC tense, with the client being a complete unknown to them...
Genre: Scifi (Mecha)
Content Warning: General descriptions of violence, swearing, long text jumpscare after you press Keep Reading lmao
Word Count: 9.1k
A/N: Coming up with titles is hard, man. Nothing too in depth to say here this time until the end, which is where of course a more in depth author's note will be. Also if you want an "opening" song to this series like how shows/anime do it, "Dream In Drive" by the Oral Cigarettes is what I chose.
Thanks for taking the time to read this if you do, feedback is always appreciated!
The year is 1177.
Thirty-four years have passed since the battlefield had been introduced to the bipedal warmachines known as Soldat D’acier. Though they did not stand above twelve meters, their appearance revolutionized how war was waged.
Entire armored divisions were reduced to scrap metal, and fortresses once thought impenetrable transformed to piles of rubble.
The entire continent of Anis rushed their militaries into an arms race to have their own versions of these steel behemoths.
In the name of expansion and rightful conquest, the country of Florence had declared war on Cumbria in 1155. The invasion saw countless deployments of Soldats on both sides, and death quickly followed in their wake. Cities once populated with thousands of people were reduced to a quarter in the first year alone.
Five long and bloody years later, a peace treaty was signed by both leaders, hoping to end their peoples' suffering.
The hardships endured during the conflict had led to resentment for both sides, their grudges never truly have disappeared.
Dyson Incorporated, an engineering company that focused on electronic appliances and Soldat development, sought continued profit from the conflict. They developed a new project to keep their cold war ongoing indefinitely under the guise of new Soldat-led private security companies.
Due to their connections within the government and their monopoly on technologies in the country, Dyson Incorporated sided with Florence. Their most successful project had led the company to their greatest profits achieved, and their downfall.
This project was called the “Enhanced Human Initiative”, led by Doctor Moreau in 1160.
Kidnapping orphaned children from the war, they began experimenting on them to create the perfect super soldier. Implanting them with mind controlling chips and heavily augmented with machinery to enhance their combat prowess.
The company disguised them as adults on the battlefield, working alongside the oblivious Florence Military. The normal sluggish and heavy movements of the standard Soldat were surpassed by the Enhanced Human pilots, their machines speeding past even the fastest tank with human-like grace.
However in 1164, the Enhanced Human known as 403 suddenly went berserk alongside every child of generation one, drawing suspicion towards the companies as to the pilot's true nature. Feeling tremendous guilt for what she had done to the children, Doctor Moreau leaked her research to the Florence Government, causing a massive investigation into the company.
Thanks to their contribution with the inner works and development of the country, they were able to hold investigators back for six months before the Military Police finally discovered their pilots’ sinister origins.
Twelve years after the raid, Dyson Incorporated had been disbanded, its leading members arrested, and their Enhanced Humans were thought to be extinct, the nightmarish project seemingly over for good.
In truth, only a single generation one Enhanced Human remained, and he had been accepted into a PMC known as “Wolf Company”. Ever since then, he had fought alongside his new family, quickly skyrocketing the PMC’s infamy into new heights, unsure of what his future held in store…
…
916 slowly opened his eyes, his surroundings slowly coming into view. The R1-N0’s cockpit hatch was still open, seeing the blue skies above him illuminate the chair and the Soldat’s controls. 916’s hands rested on his stomach before he began to stretch in the small space he had put himself in. He made a small hum of acknowledgement, having accidentally fallen asleep in here yet again.
He had his own room and it was not uncomfortable by any means, yet on some days he preferred to rest in the cockpit. Whether that was due to always piloting and performing maintenance in it or he just felt safer within the Soldat due to his past with Dyson, he could not say. Before he could fully begin to wake up, he heard metallic clanging grow ever closer before seeing a short red headed girl’s shadow emerge above the hatch.
“Figured you’d be napping here, Vi,” Chloe said, a smile growing on her face. “Boss has got our next job and wants us all in the meeting room!”
“Understood,” His calm voice replied, slowly getting up from the cockpit and grabbing onto Chloe’s extended hand, pulling him out with no effort. Although he stood almost a foot taller than her now, she could easily kill him with her strength alone. A fact she constantly reminds him of, proudly at that.
His ponytail slipped from his shoulder to the end of his neck, slightly adjusting the bangs out of his violet eyes as the wires coming out his t-shirt moved with his body. Chloe energetically slid down the R1-N0’s waist, clumsily landing on the metal platform as she eyed his Soldat.
“I feel like it’s been FOREVER since we finally got to be involved in a real job that wasn’t just ‘Stand here and watch these crates move into a ship for ten friggin' hours’.” Chloe grumbled as she tapped her foot impatiently.
“Chloe, those jobs have ended with us coming under fire. I am sure that qualifies as a real-”
“Bah, anything’s a real job to you! Come on, demolition, stealing, or even busting a few heads, that’s what really gets the blood pumping!”
916 exhaled through his nose, his shoulders slumping. His expression betrayed nothing of what he thought but Chloe already knew.
“Don’t give me that condescending attitude, you little shit!” Chloe pouted, her hands resting on her waist.
“I am not little.”
“I don’t care how much taller you grow than me, you’re still a little shit! Now get your scrawny ass down here before I kick it down!”
916’s face did not change as he gracefully leapt down onto the platform his R1-N0 laid on, turning back to look at it. The original corporate colors of the white and blue accents had long disappeared, instead being replaced by a dark brown with green accents marking the armor plates. The emblem of Wolf Company proudly lay on its shoulders. Other than the aesthetics, fundamentally his R1-N0 had not changed ever since the day he had escaped.
Even the Soldat’s armaments still contained the 60mm autocannon and heat dagger, much to everyone’s confusion. 916 recalled the conversation he had with David regarding his new colors and weapons.
…
“You sure you don’t wanna change anything else, Vi? The yellow horn I can kinda understand, makes it look snazzy, but forgoing any new equipment?”
“I can procure equipment on the field and utilize it there. More than likely it will be used as a close combat weapon, so it will at least not cost you anything to replace it.”
“...Eh, fair point. Better you break their stuff than mine. Y’know, Chloe and Hayes still don’t shut up about that whenever you’re outta the room.”
…
Deciding it would be better to not anger Chloe further with that reminder, 916 simply gestured for Chloe to lead the way, which she happily did so.
They walked away from the hangars as the other engineers greeted the two on their way out, performing maintenance on the rest of the company Soldats. Their numbers had not grown too much over the past decade, with some members either departing, falling in battle, or extended family taking their place. David allowed anyone into Wolf Company, so long as they were sure it was the right decision and after an extensive background check.
What had remained constant was that David, Chloe, Hayes, and 916 were the main combatants, and the other six Soldats were used more for defensive and utility purposes. The four’s combat capabilities had grown considerably since their first battle together, with each battle giving them more experience.
916’s data relying on makeshift and faulty equipment versus the reliability of his high end corporate funding gave him a new perspective on how to improvise in the heat of battle. He could not rely solely on his onboard learning computer forever. It was not only their skills that had evolved, but the technology of Soldats as well.
Newer Soldats were fielded every single day versus their aging machines. The Guardian Types had long since been replaced in the main Florence Military with more sleek and reliable versions. The only reason David kept theirs was to use them as construction tools. The main four Soldats of Wolf Company had been updated to keep up with the times and their ever improving reaction speeds.
While 916 performed all the upgrades himself thanks to the Dyson data implanted in his head, overall his Soldat was still the most unchanged of everyones. He was not sure that was entirely a good thing, given the nature of weapons are to be constantly upgraded and replaced.
Looking back to Chloe, it gave him the reminder that everyone also changed physically. His vivid memory recalled when he barely came up to Chloe’s stomach, and now he stood exactly thirty centimeters taller. Her face had aged but it still had her fiery and youthful energy, which was unsurprising given that she was thirty-five years old. Though amusingly, only Hayes and himself had really changed. Back then, Hayes’ blonde hair was far shorter, and now the length of it reached to his shoulders, complementing his fair skin and green eyes. David and Chloe hardly looked any different.
“Lost in thought again?” Chloe asked, giving 916 a smirk and crossing her arms.
“Hm. As much as things have changed over the years, we have remained relatively the same…"
“Yeah, you’re still as stoic as ever, Vi,” She teased, giving a slight bump to his arm.
916 exhaled through his nose again, his shoulder slightly jumping up as he did so, portraying his amusement. Working with a group like this was bound to make his emotions flare up again, and while it did so, it never showed on his face. No one had ever seen him smile, cry, or even laugh. However, it was apparent when he became annoyed when his brows furrowed ever so slightly and the tone of his voice dropped lower than usual.
Incidentally, it was Chloe and Hayes who managed to find that out after their constant recommendations of how to spend his first paycheck. Chloe recommended newer weapons while Hayes recommended going out to a ‘Strip Club’. 916 had thought it was a mechanical shop and agreed to it before David and Chloe vehemently put an end to that idea.
The database in his head had nothing on what a ‘Strip Club’ was as it only contained Dyson information, his missions and other miscellaneous info pertaining to combat. It could learn and store memories or information like a file for him to review, but he’d be required to learn it first. Which was a problem, given everyone’s reluctance to tell him what it was in the first place.
That memory began to make him think of the time spent with 403 and the other Generation One children. They got scared, showed sorrow and happiness, but more importantly, everyone visibly portrayed their emotions before the chips were implanted, including himself.
He wondered if the chip had scrambled with his brain’s function of his emotions, because even now he did not feel them that intensely. Not since the day he had broken free of Dyson. But he at least understood other people's emotions on a basic level, enough to let him play along with their antics.
“It has its benefits,” 916 verbally jabbed back after returning his mind back to the present.
“Yeah, in being boring as hell,” Chloe chuckled. That could have been seen as an insult, but he knew Chloe’s vulgar and unfiltered language. She was just messing around as usual.
Strolling through the metallic catwalks, 916 and Chloe heard the rushing waves of the ocean crash upon the sand. Wolf Company had established a base on a small abandoned island far off the coast of Cumbria. The trees on the island were left relatively untouched, both to camouflage the base from potential attackers, but also keep morale high by having something pleasant to look at. While 916 did think it looked somewhat nice, that was the extent of his thoughts.
He truly had no preference on where Wolf Company was located, as long as it was safe. This island fit his requirements. The command center they were headed into was more of a bunker than anything, surrounded by metal and electronic lights, but it was not nearly as high tech as Dyson’s command center. As the door slid open, they were greeted by a guard wearing a gray ballistic vest.
“Hey Vi, Chloe. Boss just went into the room.” The guard casually gestured with his head, his hands on the rifle but not in any way that would indicate he was on alert.
916 gave a nod of acknowledgement while Chloe was far more energetic in her wave back.
“Got it, thanks!” Chloe passed the guard and turned back to 916. “Least he can’t bitch to us about being late.”
“Hm. Assuming Hayes woke up in time.”
Walking through the corridor and turning right into another sliding door, they saw David, a group of engineers and soldiers, and Hayes all inside the room. David stood up front, an electronic board behind him as the others sat in simple steel chairs.
They were not comfortable by any means, but they were there more for function than anything else. David gave a nod of acknowledgement while the others simply waved. Hayes gestured a hello with his head as he motioned the two to sit next to him.
“Just in time. Sit your butts down and we can get on with this briefing. This ain’t gonna be a normal one.” David offhandedly waved towards the seats. He held a small tablet in his hand as the light from the board illuminated the entire room in a dark blue, portraying information about the upcoming job.
Chloe rushed to the chair, almost tripping over as she caught herself and began tapping her foot rhythmically. 916 calmly sat down and remained unnaturally still, his eyes on David as he fumbled with the buttons.
“Ah, here we go.”
The board projected a screen showing a company logo, which immediately caught everyone’s attention. It simply read “Phenom Industries.” What stood out the most was that the logo had no symbol or anything fancy decorating the name. In fact, no one in the room appeared to know who they were.
“See what I mean? Already things are lookin’ shady.” David crossed his arms, frowning at the company.
916’s eyes flashed several colors for a few brief seconds. Nothing in his data matched up. Pre-existing records made no mention, nor did any past mission have any sort of reference towards the company.
“Who’re these nobodies, Boss?” Hayes raised his hand, leaning back in his seat while his foot grounded him. “We’ve been hired by big names who could barely afford us, I doubt these guys have anything we want.”
“Did as much research as I was able, they apparently ship raw materials to Florence and Cumbria, but other than that? Nothing. No history with any other PMC, no corporate squabbling, nothing. It’s just…blank.”
The room’s silence was replaced by murmurs, the uncertainty of the company had everyone on edge.
“Eh? Then why the heck are we even accepting a job from them?” Chloe leaned forward in her seat as 916 put a hand on the back of it to make sure she didn’t fall, while still trying to examine the screen.
“That, Chloe, is why I’m bringing this up. Normally a company with an empty history like this means they’re a startup, you don’t hear me mention them because I usually throw their requests in the trash and get us another company.” David pressed on the tablet’s screen with his finger, changing the board and showing the client’s words. “This time, I’m making an exception.”
“We request the services of Wolf Company to protect the transportation of valuable minerals from a rival company PMC. In exchange, we will safeguard the location of Wolf Company’s island base, and any damages incurred on equipment will be wholly covered by Phenom Industries.”
The murmurs exploded into exclamations and questions, David did not bother to silence anyone until the noise died down naturally.
“This island does not appear on any map.” 916 commented, turning from the screen to David. “How do they know we’re here?”
“Exactly why this job’s our next one, kid. Whoever these guys are, they’ve got connections, and we’re gonna find out how.”
“This has got to be a trap…” Hayes put his chin into his palm, muttering. “They say they got no beef with anyone, yet a company is supposedly hiring a PMC against them? Not even mentioning the blackmail…”
“Tch, guess I should be more careful with my wish about an exciting job. Fuckin' monkey’s paw.” Chloe sighed, leaning back into her chair and making 916 let go.
916 managed to stifle his question on what a ‘monkey’s paw’ was and focused on more important matters.
“The Den should be prepared for an attack while we are away. I doubt that we are the only ones in danger for this job.”
“Agreed.” David stated, turning back to the rest of the room. “Everyone’s to remain on high alert until we send word back. Vi, Chloe, Hayes, and I will be going to the coordinates they provided and see the mission done. Once it is, we’re gonna make sure to get a nice long talk with those punks and how they know so much about our movements.”
“I’ll be moving to the Rhino and remain on standby, then.” 916 dismissed himself and hurried back to the hangar.
Everyone began to do the same as David nodded.
“Chloe, Hayes, join Vi and switch to callsigns once we get in the Soldats. We’ll assume that this company knows our usual frequencies, so we’ll switch to emergency comms only. Let’s get this over with, folks.”
As 916 approached his Soldat, he removed his shirt and the wires on his chest began to pulsate a faint blue. The segmented visor of the R1-N0 activated and remained still until he climbed up into the cockpit. Letting the mechanisms latch onto his spine, he took a deep breath as the systems merged into his brain, data rushing in.
After the hatch closed, 916 slowly stood up and shook the metallic ground underneath him, watching everyone else enter their Soldats. In the distance, he could hear the whirring engines of the transport ship rev up, ready to depart.
On his right monitor, small windows showing his allies blinked into existence, springing the previously black screen to life. Everyone had a pilot suit of their own as they adjusted to their cockpit. Hayes’ suit was a stylish white with red stripes, Chloe’s was dark red accented with light gray and a flaming fist over her heart, and David’s was his usual well-worn military fatigues with the symbol of Wolf Company.
In contrast, 916 only had his pants and shoes on while the wires began glowing a bright blue, his spine jutting outwards as the seat’s connection wrapped around it. 916 finally put on a tactical headset, allowing him to hear his squad.
“Juggernaut’s good to go. Ammo’s full and no damage reported.” David stated, his usual levity notably missing. 916 saw the pink monoeye activate as it looked around rapidly before its gaze rested upon the other Soldats who began to stand up.
“Mantis, ready to deploy. I’m ready to smash their fuckin’ heads!” Chloe smirked, excitedly putting her fist into her palm. Her slim bright red Soldat’s head shot straight upwards and looked rigidly left to right, true to the insect it was named after as its two eyes activated, pulsing a bright yellow.
“Phantom’s rarin’ to go, Boss.” Hayes nodded, pushing his blonde hair away from his face. His Soldat had been upgraded ever since 916 first saw it, being outfitted with more armor, but not enough to hamper his movement. The goggles on its head slid down, covering the visor and shone a bright orange.
“Rhino is fully operational, awaiting orders,” 916 blankly reported. His R1-N0 turned towards the Juggernaut, as did everyone else.
“Head to the transport ship, and park your asses in the hold. It’ll be a longer trip than usual before we reach the coordinates. We’re takin’ a route we normally don’t in case anyone's tracking our movements.”
David saw everyone nod on the right monitor and their Soldats began to move towards their transport. The ship itself was quite strange as far as transport ships went. The way it held the Soldats was essentially putting them in a giant cargo crate that opened on both sides, sitting underneath and carried by what looked like a giant helicopter.
It was an obvious target for anyone to shoot, but its main job was simply to transport the Soldats or personnel inside far away from the active combat zones. Given the nature of this job, it made David worry more about the safety of the pilots than usual.
The Juggernaut entered first and parked itself on the farthest right of the crate, powering down its engines as the Mantis stood directly to its left. The Phantom and Rhino stood behind them on the opposite side, watching the crate’s hatches slowly rise up from the ground and enclose them. The ship took off within a few minutes and began to fly over the ocean and towards the coordinates.
The squad left their visual comms open, everyone able to see David cross his arms as he began to explain the mission further.
“The AO isn’t too far off from the coast, so we’ll hoof it towards the area they want us to guard for about ten minutes.”
“The waters will be trapping us should we get attacked.” 916 commented.
“It will, but at the same time we shouldn’t have to worry about us getting shot in the back by the PMC. Unless Phenom does it first.”
“If that happens, Vi and I will fuck ‘em up and make those assholes regret it!” Chloe angrily slammed her fist into her seat.
“What’s the area look like? I might be able to hide myself somewhere high and make sure nothing gets the drop on everyone, Boss.” Hayes shrugged as he made his suggestion.
David pressed something offscreen before a map of the area they would be defending appeared in front of them. The facility appeared to be some sort of dock, with ships in the waters next to a massive warehouse-like facility. The area was enclosed by a valley heavily covered by trees, which disappeared the farther it went inland. Their coordinates to meet up with the company was right in front of the facility, which was almost completely empty, giving them no cover.
“This is a goddamn kill box!” Hayes slumped into his seat as he examined the screen further. “Now I’m really convinced this entire job is a setup!”
“Screw is right. Should the PMC decide to attack from the valleys, they would have the high ground,” 916 agreed, his tone slightly deepening.
“DO THEY THINK WE’RE MORONS?!” Chloe yelled into her mic, making everyone slightly recoil from the volume before Hayes motioned for her to quiet down on the screen. For the first time today, David let out a smirk as a chuckle gave away his plans.
“Looks like they do, Flare. I bet they’re expecting us to waltz right in and play to their tune thanks to the blackmail. But when has Wolf Company ever followed a plan to the letter? We do things our way only.”
Chloe and Hayes saw his expression before being calmed down and smiling alongside him. Their anxiety was now replaced with anticipation. 916 only nodded in response with a grunt of affirmation. Whoever was attempting to make a fool out of them was going to sorely regret it.
…
David sat inside his cockpit, the Juggernaut’s monoeye slowly shifting left to right as it stood on guard, directly in front of the facility’s entrance. Hayes, Chloe, and 916 were nowhere to be found, to the surprise of his client when he arrived. His arms were crossed and his finger was slowly tapping on his arm before noticing his communication monitor was blinking. A call from Phenom Industries.
“Boss here-”
“What in the hell are you doing?!” An angry man’s voice called out. The voice sounded old, but not any more than David’s.
“My job. What’s it look like?”
“By parking your Soldat directly in front of the facility?! Where are your other mercenaries?!-”
“If your company really did its homework on Wolf Company, then you already know we do some risky shit. Oh, and my two other buddies are around. Won’t disclose the location, seeing as we’re the only security. All the better to complete the job, I say.”
“You’re completely alone! If an enemy attack came in, we would-”
“-Get hit, and explode. Which is precisely why I’m here. They’d be an idiot to hit me and detonate all the sweet cargo ya’ll are packing. So they won’t fire without making themselves known.”
“Tch, we will discuss this when it comes to your pay!”
“Sure thing, big man. I’d like to discuss the blackmail while we’re at it, too…Hey, quit your bitching for a second. Need to take a call.”
“The nerve of-!”
The voice promptly went offline as he scoffed, switching to emergency communications.
“Screw?”
“See a buncha Soldats approaching. Couple hundred meters out. Think that’s our rival for today.”
“See the logo?”
“...The Lightning Griffins. Hoo boy, I bet they’re still pissed.”
David frowned at the mention of them. The Lightning Griffins were a PMC they had shamed three times now for the unfortunate crime of being on the opposite side. Just like everyone else, he mentioned it was nothing personal, and just like everyone else, they wanted revenge.
No doubt they probably set this up, but as far as he knew, they were just a regular, albeit on the technological lower-end, PMC. How did they manage to get the information on Wolf Company’s Base?
“Hmph, questions for later. Flare, Vi?”
“Loud and clear boss, getting into position!” Chloe energetically replied.
“Following the plan as ordered. Awaiting signal.” 916 blankly reported.
David smirked and turned his frequency back to Phenom.
“Speaking of attack, your buddies just got here. I’d haul ass if I were you.”
“What?!” The old voice shouted out in surprise. “Why did you not notify us earlier?!”
“You just were.” David shut off his communication as he looked at the workers hurriedly trying to get out of the way and towards the docking area. He just shrugged seeing them. “Poor bastards probably don’t even know they’re just here to make this look legit. Guess I should move so I don’t hurt ‘em.”
The Juggernaut slowly moved forward, readying its weapons for use and David turned to his right monitor, activating his speakers to hail the Griffins. Thanks to the formation of the valley, there was only one real entrance, one that David’s Soldat could see the entirety of as it was just an open field of dirt and rocks.
Right now, he was the only one visible standing in front of the facility as he saw about twenty lower end Soldats approach. They all were construction Soldats, little more than small rectangles with arms and legs and no doubt just rigged for the bare minimum threshold to fight.
They barely stood up to the chest of a normal Soldat, but even then, their laughable specs were still nothing to completely write off, for there’s a quality in quantity after all. And they were all armed with weapons that could damage a Soldat, a mixture of rifles, machine guns and explosives.
The one in front was their leader, inside an actual combat Soldat. It was a white bipedal humanoid machine that stood about the same height as a Guardian, but was far bulkier in all respects. All of the limbs, including its head, were heavily armored and the back carried a massive makeshift sword that could cleave the Juggernaut in half. Most distinct of all, was its damaged head, where a proud antenna once stood above a cracked green visor was now split in twain, accompanied by a black mark on its formerly pristine white shoulder.
“Damn it, kid! Why’d ya beat the hell outta him like that?”
“Because you ordered me to, Boss-”
“Bah, shut the hell up! That wasn’t meant to be answered!”
“Understood, shutting up.”
Chloe and Hayes snickered, while David glared at the monitor. None of the team were currently visible, but they could feel David’s death stare as the noise suddenly died off.
“Stay right where ya are, punks.” David announced to the Lightning Griffins, adjusting his controls in his hands.
“Wolf Company. I suppose it’s fitting that we’d find you here.” A younger and angrier voice replied.
“Heh, find us? We decided to find you first, figures it beats letting you waltz up to our home.”
“This little dock is the home to Wolf Company? Tch, that’s even more insulting!”
David frowned at their response. If they were the ones blackmailing, they’d know that this is just their employer. They were either playing dumb or…
“Are we both being played?” David muttered to himself. The Juggernaut’s Monoeye looked to the side, noticing that the dockworkers were still doing their jobs, albeit at a much more panicked state. It’d probably be best if he played along for now. “Now, I’ll repeat this for the fourth god damn time so it can go through that thick skull. This. Ain’t. Personal. Neither were any of the times before!”
“Oh, it isn’t personal? Then why did one of yours almost beat me to death with my own weapon, that feels pretty fucking personal!”
“...Alright, can’t even argue that one. Just turn back around, and we’ll forget we ever saw each other-”
“Sorry, that ain’t happening! We're promised a lot of money to take that cargo!”
“You even know what’s in it?”
“Do you?”
Truthfully, David had no idea what Phenom was doing. Hayes was in the trees, looking down on the facility with a sniper in case they actually tried to betray them in the heat of combat. He had assumed it was a fifty fifty chance that it was either an ambush getting set up or actual cargo getting sent out. But that was a detail that did not need to be shared to the Griffins.
“Besides,” The leader replied. “What matters is we finally put Wolf Company down once and for all! We already know your other buddies are hiding in the trees!”
David felt like he should be bothered they knew that, but he instead felt nothing. Even without the insider knowledge Wolf Company’s blackmailers had, you’d have to be absolutely stupid to not utilize the terrain around you in a battle. Especially in an open field like this.
Knowing their voices were being broadcasted aloud, David knew the other three were adjusting their plans.
“Pretty optimistic thinking considering we kicked your ass the past three times. If you wanna throw the first punch right now, it’s about to be a fourth.”
“Bring it, old man!”
The Griffin Soldat unsheathed its sword and pointed it straight at David.
“This time, nothing’s gonna stop you from-”
A shot rang out as a blast from the trees immediately blew apart one of the construction Soldat’s arms, catching everyone off guard, including David.
“What the hell?!” David shouted. The pink monoeye suddenly moved where the flash came from, and saw the Phantom in the trees, rifle aimed straight at the Griffins.
“Uh…A-Are we not fighting?” Hayes nervously asked.
David looked like he was about to say something, but in the end he just sighed.
“...Eh, fuck it.”
The Juggernaut’s cannons lowered and opened fire at the Griffins, all of them scattering in time before the explosions sent a cloud of dirt into the air. The leader skirted around the explosions and rushed forward, before quickly sliding to the right to avoid another of Hayes’ shots, a massive round sinking into the dirt and exploding. A small number of the construction soldats flew up to the left side Hayes was on, using the trees as cover as they began their slow advance towards him.
“Screw! Watch your ass up there!” David shouted, focusing on reversing the Juggernaut and trying to shoot down the others trying to move onto the other side of the valley.
“Don’t worry, Boss! I saw ‘em!”
Aiming the Juggernaut’s machine guns at the Griffin Leader, he unleashed a torrent of gunfire to drive him back. The leader’s Soldat boosted around the shots, but was hit by a few strays, faltering the advance. The lack of cover was both a blessing and a curse, as David suddenly felt his Soldat shake. The pink monoeye looked to its right flank and saw three of them moving behind, rifles firing at his treads.
“Flare!”
The Mantis leapt out from the trees, with many of the construction Soldats sent to attack Hayes came tumbling down the hill.
“YAHOOOOO!” Chloe screamed out, reloading her shotgun as she fired at David’s attackers. Each shot tore apart the bodies of the construction soldats, making them explode. Before they could turn to retaliate, the Mantis’s legs planted itself onto the floor and jumped dozens of meters into the air, all the while spraying its shots wildly.
Landing right behind David, she sheathed her shotgun and drew out a sword instead. Catching the construction Soldat’s attention, she continued to quickly hop away from the facility and David as they gave pursuit, leaving only him and the leader.
“Drawing my men away? Fine by me, I’ll take you down myself!”
The Juggernaut moved rigidly, but its expression was clear to the leader. It was shrugging nonchalantly, taunting him.
“Much better than you have tried, kiddo.”
The cannons lowered and immediately fired, creating more craters onto the floor as the Juggernaut rushed forward.
…
“The enemy sniper is around here somewhere!” One of the mercenaries called out, their machine guns facing out as they dashed around the trees at a relatively quick speed. They could not utilize their full boost since there was the risk of collision, but they had at least seven present to rush the sniper in case it fired at them.
“It came from near the coast, so we can-”
A shot soared through the trees as it went directly through the cockpit of one, making it explode and causing the entire squad to scatter.
“Shit, did anyone see where that came from?!”
“I think it was to our right-!”
A shot came from the left, going through the cockpit again, and a small explosion setting some of the trees on fire.
“I-I can’t pinpoint it!”
Sheathing the sniper, the Phantom instead drew out a combat knife as the goggles slid back up onto its head.
“Doubt they’re stupid enough to fall for the same tactic over and over.” Hayes commented to himself, preparing for close combat. A sniper was almost useless once the enemy knew his location, so now it was time to improvise.
He knew that his armor could hold up against their shots, but not if they were all concentrated and hitting him at the same time. Deciding to take a page out of Chloe’s book, he figured the best way out of this situation was to slice his way out.
Quickly sliding around the tree and rushing an unsuspecting Soldat, he stabbed through the chest and forced it onto the floor. Several machine gun rounds began hitting his side armor, making him quickly retreat. Feeling the Phantom shake violently from their retaliation, he drove through the trees ahead, with everyone skirting around the trees to pursue.
…
Chloe sliced another of the Soldats in half, it exploded into a mess of parts and limbs, allowing her to use the smoke as cover from the shots. From what she could count, there were about six that pursued her, and four that remained. She had to stick to her hit and run tactics. Everytime she came close to attack, the shots would chip away at her armor’s durability. It was only a matter of time before they managed to damage something vital.
“For a bunch of trash cans, these fuckers are pretty resilient…!” She grumbled.
“Flare, switch places, coming up on ya, now!”
“With pleasure, just get these goons off me!”
The Mantis’s head turned to the trees and leapt towards them, sword drawn as the Phantom emerged and slid down, aiming its sniper at the Soldats chasing Chloe. It fired twice, one exploding an arm while another pierced through the cockpit. Meanwhile, the Mantis landed right in front of four that flew out the trees, managing to slice one in half before the others scattered hastily.
“Guess we’re all out in the open now, huh?” Chloe laughed, the adrenaline kicking into overdrive in her body.
“Not everyone.” Hayes cooly replied, his left monitor catching movement in the trees on the right side of the valley, overlooking the facility. Some Soldats had managed to sneak through the fight. “Though, that’s about to change.”
…
“Sir, we see the dock. Attempting to seize!”
Static.
“...Sir, do you copy?”
The one leading the squad of five turned around to face them before suddenly raising its gun to open fire. A single shot pierced through its cockpit and caused it to explode. Everyone else spun around and dashed down the hill, a massive gray Soldat leaping out after them, with a single yellow horn and a segmented blue visor.
“This is Vi, entering combat.” 916 said, taking no particular pleasure in having caught them off guard. His eyebrow slightly shifted when he realized that the Griffin Soldats could not contact their allies. As far as he knew, he had not initiated any kind of jamming program. Yet his mind felt a slight buzzing sensation, a feeling only present if his systems were active. The feeling made him suspicious, but decided to focus on the more pressing matter.
The soldats began opening fire and the Rhino slid down the hill at an accelerated pace and made them aim toward the empty coast. Though he would have preferred to attack them from behind utilizing his speed, they would hit the facility, and void any chance of getting paid.
Rushing straight at them as their stabilizers struggled to keep them upright, he smashed straight into one of them before forcing them all to collide, shoving them all away from the facility. Using the claws on his Soldat, he stabbed through the cockpit before using the machine as a shield from any incoming fire, then tossing it at another causing them both to erupt into a small inferno.
“Two more.”
The Rhino unsheathed its 60mm autocannon and aimed it at the escaping Soldats-.
<Hm…~...J-...f-...> A cheerful woman’s voice called out. 916 stopped for a moment to register the noise. It sounded like it came from the comms. The voice was too high pitched to be Chloe’s which meant-
“Screw. Please disable your videos of the naked women during a mission.” 916 requested, feeling slightly annoyed.
“The fu-?! Tch, little busy right now, Vi! I’ve learned by now, I don’t make the same mistake twice!” Hayes replied quickly, and from the tone of his voice and the lack of a flustered reaction, he was telling the truth.
“Pfft! C-Come on, don’t distract me like that!” Chloe chuckled, her voice obviously contrasting the woman’s voice he heard.
“When the hell has he been the type to make a joke in the middle of a fight?!” David’s voice came next, sounding surprised. "Kid, what're you hearing?"
The Rhino turned to the Wolf Company pilots fighting, all of them were busy fighting off the Lightning Griffins. Focusing his attention on the escaping Soldats again, he was prepared to fire before they were quickly shot down, falling backwards towards him. 916’s expression suddenly darkened. The shot came from the front, but no one was paying attention to his skirmish.
<...-tar-…-aiti-…-> Another female voice spoke out, this time much deeper than the previous one.
<...-stood-...ging pres-....> A third female voice spoke, her tone softer than the other two.
The buzzing feeling in his head was beginning to intensify, his monitor now picking up three targets approaching from the entrance of the valley.
“Boss, incoming Soldats!” 916 said louder than his usual tone, beginning to hear the voices much clearer.
<...-engaging Wolf Company.> The third voice reported, in a tone not too dissimilar to 916’s.
The Juggernaut quickly backed off from the Griffin Leader, as an overhead shot soaring past them caught their attention. David didn’t have a chance to ask who they were, as a single shot pierced straight through the Griffin Leader’s armor plates and unceremoniously annihilated the cockpit, causing it to explode and catch everyone’s attention.
The Phantom and Mantis spun around to see three black Soldats quickly closing in on their location, all sliding across the ground with a trail of dust following them. Now everyone had stopped fighting and scattered, Griffin to the right and Wolf Company to the left of the valley.
The three black Soldats sped past the Griffin ones, seemingly not paying them any mind and instead gunning it for Wolf Company.
“Back the hell off!” Chloe shouted, the Mantis aiming its shotgun at them.
The middle Soldat snapped towards her and with one well placed shot blew up her weapon. Before anyone could react, one of the Soldats quickly closed the gap and leapt up, kicking the Mantis as it came crashing down. The Soldat danced around their gunfire as it activated its thrusters, skirting around the exploding debris. The Rhino, Juggernaut, and Phantom continued their attempt to pin it down as the three quickly scattered. The Juggernaut moved in front of the Mantis, noticing it wasn’t getting back up.
“Flare, respond!” David called out her name with a tinge of panic before 916 spoke up.
“No serious damage taken, I believe she is unconscious.” He said, closely examining the movements of the unknown Soldats. Their responsiveness to dodging attacks were far too fast and natural to be just ace pilots.
The remaining Griffin Soldats moved towards the facility while everyone was occupied before being mercilessly put down by the third Soldat using some kind of burst fire rifle. The unknown Soldats quickly backed off and stood together, all pointing their weapons but none actually firing at Wolf Company.
“The hell are they-?” Hayes did not get to finish his question as one of their Soldats stepped forward.
“Wolf Company. You are ordered to stand down.” The woman’s tone was relatively friendly, unsettling David and Hayes considering the circumstances.
“Who the fuck are you supposed to be?” David shouted out defiantly.
“We are The Pale Riders.”
916 searched his records for any mention of this PMC or to identify their Soldats, and again failed to find any information. The Soldats were pitch black, each with a different colored stripe across their shoulder armor. It looked eerily similar to a Guardian Soldat, but the armor plates were far bulkier than its supposed predecessor and the visor was a dark pink.
It looked about the same height as the R1-N0, but the weapons it had were far more advanced than his own and he could not tell where it stored its close combat weapons, if it had any at all. The one that had attacked Chloe had what appeared to be a cannon and a gatling gun mounted on its shoulder, but it was the only one with those weapons.
“You are in possession of a Dyson R1-N0. You are to exit the suit immediately for confiscation.” The same voice announced, the head turning to the Rhino.
“We will not harm your allies if you comply. Failure to do so will result in termination.”
916 tightly gripped the controls as he tried to have the systems in his head try to connect to the Pale Rider pilot. Generation One and Two pilots all had a chip in their brain to allow them to communicate directly, forgoing the need for external communication.
If they truly were Enhanced Humans then-
A connection. 916’s heart rate began to steadily increase.
<Ah, so you really are an Enhanced Human, how interesting!~> The same friendly voice replied, though her voice was far clearer, as if they were right next to each other.
<Identify yourself.> The deeper voice cut her off coldly, every one of their Soldats now facing 916’s direction.
<Are you Dyson?>
<No,> The softer voice answered. <We are an independent group.>
<Identify yourself.> The deeper voice repeated.
<...My name is Vi.> He finally replied, stepping forward and away from the rest of Wolf Company.
<Hm.> The friendly voice idly hummed. <Guess you’re our guy.~>
<Beginning test.> The deeper voice stated, its weapon aiming at the Rhino.
The Rhino immediately leapt towards the three, autocannon firing as it slammed onto the ground they were standing on, all of them scattering.
“Boss, Screw. Escape with Flare. You cannot handle them.” 916 said, immediately rushing the closest one to him.
“What?! We can’t just leave-”
“Run, now.” He said, each of his shots missing despite the fact they were at point blank range. “They are like me.”
It took a moment for the two of them to realize what 916 meant.
“Aw shit.” David’s voice dropped upon the realization.
“Booking it!” Hayes shouted, the Phantom grabbing the Mantis.
The three of them began to escape, and to 916’s surprise, they were left alone instead of getting gunned down. Which meant they were only here for him. 916 made no comment as he quickly dodged incoming fire.
The Rhino swerved left and right as a barrage attempted to pin him down. The open field they were in provided no cover to hide in as his armor plates were getting hit, the durability wearing down each shot.
Despite the hits taken so far, he was still able to dodge a significant amount of their attacks. If these were Dyson Enhanced Humans, he’d be dead already.
All combat data was shared between Dyson pilots, and his tactics were well documented. While his fighting had changed significantly over the years, accessing that information beforehand would have already decided the fight.
He began to notice there were subtle differences as they dodged each other’s attacks. His Soldat had almost no issue responding instantly to what his brain commanded, giving it a human-like motion whenever he moved, while these Soldats were fast, they did not have the same fluid movements.
They still moved like machines.
However, their coordination was almost the same tactics the other children of Generation One and Two performed. Focusing on blitz and rush strategies, never giving the enemy a chance to rest.
“You’re pretty good!” The friendly voice complimented 916, dodging his autocannon shots by rapidly changing directions of her movement.
“It will not save you.” The deeper voice commented.
The suppressing fire coming from one of the Soldats kept him too busy to focus on retaliating, while another kept attacking his flank. Each shot that connected rattled his brain and the Rhino. Despite the opportunities, he noticed none of their shots had aimed for his cockpit.
“...I will die if this continues.” 916 blankly told himself.
If they were Enhanced Humans, that meant they had some kind of CE-Drive system as well. But he was running low on options and ammo. He quietly exhaled through his nose as the R1-N0 shook violently, finally being knocked down to its knees. 916 hit his head as he fell, a notification appearing on his eye that he was bleeding.
The firing quickly stopped afterwards. Sparking from the monitors caught onto his skin which burned it, but he quickly dulled the pain with his inhibitors. Ignoring the bleeding, he began to collect his thoughts.
“...As long as they can escape, we can fight another day.” 916’s face had hardly changed, but his heart rate began to spike as his mind began overflowing with data.
“CE-DRIVE, ACTIVATED.”
The R1-N0’s visor turned Scarlet as it quickly launched itself, slamming into the heavily armored Soldat. The visors of all three of them turned into a bright green and charged 916. Although they were moving at a faster pace, it was nowhere near as fast as him.
One of the Soldats pulled out a knife and attempted to stab his head before he punched the arm’s joints, severing it from its body and sliding around to its back, using his attacker as a shield. The two didn’t fire from the front and instead quickly shifted to his sides, hitting him with pinpoint accuracy, making 916 let go of their comrade and leap back.
Grabbing one of the construction Soldat’s limbs from the ground, 916 rocketed towards the right Soldat and slammed it against the chest, making it fly back from the sheer force of the blow. Quickly turning around, the one with a severed arm stabbed into his left shoulder, disabling the function of his left hand and making him drop the makeshift club.
The Rhino slammed its head into the visor of the Soldat, shattering it and disabling its main camera. He grabbed one of the Griffin’s rifles and aimed right at her cockpit. He was quickly intercepted by the remaining Soldat who crashed into him, both of them falling to the ground and unsheathing knives.
“Pale Riders, stand down.” A fourth unfamiliar female voice commanded.
Suddenly the battle came to a screeching halt. The black soldats had stopped moving completely. The two standing immediately sheathed their weapons while the one on top of him didn’t move. All their visors turned back to the dark pink color, and seemed to power down significantly.
916’s red eyes blinked in confusion, before the head of the Rhino looked up and saw a massive flying ship above them. It looked like a naval carrier with massive rotors jutting out from the sides keeping it afloat. It was colored pitch black with the symbol of the Pale Riders, at least what he assumed was their symbol from the distance he saw it.
Turning back to the Soldat on top of him, he saw that it finally began sheathing its own knife, 916’s eyes turned back to his normal violet color. The Rhino’s visor reverted as well, but it was still powered on in case this supposed cease fire would resume.
“Am I currently speaking to the Dyson Enhanced-Human Pilot?” The fourth voice asked on an open channel. The quality was somewhat less than desirable, but it was coming from the machine itself rather than a brain to brain connection. Which meant she wasn’t an Enhanced Human. Hopefully.
“You can call me Commander Ava. I am the leader of the Pale Riders, and I’d like to apologize for the deception and the damages. You and your friends are in no real danger.”
“...Deception?” 916 asked.
“Red. Explain it to him.”
The friendly voice from before rang in his head.
<Wolf Company famously employs a R1-N0 that fights with unnatural degrees of finesse for your typical pilot. We wanted to confirm if it was indeed an Enhanced Human piloting it.>
<Our hostility was merely meant to invoke feelings of real danger in order to test you. That being said, if you weren’t an Enhanced Human, we would have killed you and taken your Soldat.> The deeper voice tactlessly added.
“Earlier you had mentioned a test...This is logical.” 916 responded. If they had actually wanted Wolf Company dead, they would have done so without announcing themselves. They had several opportunities already.
“VI! VI! THE HELL’S GOING ON!?” David’s voice suddenly interrupted.
“I’m okay, Boss. Someone wants to speak to you.”
As Commander Ava began to explain herself, 916’s attention was brought back to the front camera, watching the cockpit open and reveal the pilot.
She was wearing a mostly black uniform with white stripes on her shoulder. Her long white hair fell behind her back, revealing blue eyes and a somewhat pale skin that stared into his own cockpit. She stepped down and waited for him to open his.
916’s spine disconnected from his seat and he stepped out, the blood slowly falling against the side of his head. His wires were still pulsating a faint blue, making sure the R1-N0 was still active.
His heavily augmented appearance did not seem to faze her. In fact, there were no visible augmentations she had herself. Considering her clothes were similar to Chloe and Hayes, it was safe to assume their spines did not connect to the Soldat either.
Which meant none of the Pale Riders were from Dyson after all.
“Your skills are admirable.” She calmly stated.
“Yours as well.” 916 nodded in response. "The Pale Riders are a formidable team."
Despite the fact she wasn’t as heavily augmented, she seemed to be as aloof as he was. Was that from becoming an Enhanced Human or-?
“Aw look at that, White’s made a new friend!” Red teased.
“We are not friends. We are simply allies.” White responded.
“Allies?” 916 asked.
“The Pale Riders and Wolf Company will be working together. It is the sole purpose of why we tested you, because we need your help.”
“...Boss?” 916 called out behind him, looking at the cockpit. He could hear David’s voice respond back.
“Yeah, just confirmed it with that stone-cold bitch of a lady. She says she’ll clear up any misunderstanding, but if she tries anything else, we’re shoving a boot up her ass!”
“...Understood." 916 replied. He did not understand why they needed his help, but he at least was thankful that none of his friends were seriously injured.
“It’s like we just duplicated White. Don’t you think so, Black?” Red chuckled, which was promptly cut off by the deeper voice.
“Shut up, already.” Black ordered.
White extended her hand as a friendly greeting, but her face subtly shifted to a more positive expression.
916 glanced past her, seeing the two other Soldats remain still, as the Juggernaut, Phantom, and Mantis slowly approached them.
He turned back to White, and shook her hand firmly.
“I will reintroduce myself. I am Vi.”
…
CHAPTER 2: END
Author's Note:
Thanks for reading, I think this chapter is a lot more engaging to read than the previous ones thanks to the banter and Wolf Company!
From everyone who's read the story so far among my group, that seems to be the general consensus, Chloe and Hayes especially.
It actually took me very little time to edit and write this Chapter since it came to me a lot more naturally.
As for the newest additions to the story: the Pale Riders!
...Yeah, I won't even lie to y'all, the Pale Riders are basically just Task Force DEFY. In fact, they're who directly inspired each character. You'll get to see their names mentioned in the next chapter, but:
So if you were reading this and going "Hang on, they sound familiar!" that's why. I apparently cannot make a character that isn't directly inspired by someone I like, but I guess that goes for a lot of OC's huh?
When it comes to the names, I sorta threw stuff at the wall. Morgan is named after Fire Emblem Awakening Morgan, Sofia and Ava were the first names I thought of, while Allison is a reference to a character of the same name from Red vs Blue (aka Agent Texas).
As for the "Soldats", I decided to start adding visual references of what their inspirations are to give anyone reading an image to attach names to.
Starting off with the Pale Riders:
(RGM-96X Jesta from Mobile Suit Gundam: Unicorn)
White(Softer Third Voice)/Red's(Friendlier First Voice) Soldat:
===
(RGM-96X Jesta Cannon from Mobile Suit Gundam: Unicorn)
Black's (Second deeper voice) Soldat:
===
And Here's Wolf Company, courtesy of my google docs page of my notes:
(MaILES Byakuchi from AMAIM Warrior at the Borderline)
916's Soldat (The R1-N0)
(Zaku Tank from Mobile Suit Variation)
David's Soldat (The Juggernaut)
(GM Sniper II from Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket)
Hayes' Soldat (The Phantom)
(NACHTREIHER from Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon)
Chloe's Soldat (The Mantis)
===
As for the Lightning Griffins, there was no real inspiration, besides the MT's from Armored Core 6.
If I could draw the mechs myself, I would.
I'm still drawing the visual references of the main characters as it is, and that's even slower than my writing.
But that's it for right now, thank you for reading as always, and see you next chapter!
I know I almost never talk about actual dueling because that's not the point of this blog, but this card is the absolute bane of my existence. Someone plays this card and I just start crying. That said, this card honestly has a lot of intricate details that are incredibly hard to notice and appreciate while it's blowing you to smithereens. For instance: I'm only just now realizing that that's Number 9: Dyson Sphere equipped with this giant ass, pyramid powered laser. Interesting to note that the eyeball looking orbs from Dyson Sphere's artwork are included here as the objects projecting said energy pyramid around what is probably a star. Beyond the crisp lines and technological details of the blaster and its user, I love the softer nature of the space background (mostly represented by the zigzag blue gas clouds). I wonder if the other large orange orbs not directly interacting with anything are meant to be like a lens flare effect. Also, the bold color choices all around really separate everything out, despite all the details and overlapping features.
Things I learned while re-watching Star Plus Mahabharata (Part 20/many):
Really glad that the women chose to stay in Kurukshetra during the battle.
I will never get over Dushasan’s Dyson air-wrapped hair.
I just love the bond between Bhishma and Vidur. So pure.
Krishna and his giant cocktail ring.
Wait, Krishna is doing past life therapy now.
I am so here for the Panchal princes, Shikhandin and Dhrishtadyumna. I love writing about them in my stories also.
Shakuni is right. This war is between him and Krishna. And ironically they both want the same thing. The destruction of the Kurus.
Oh! Arjun bragging about his ability to shoot in the dark. I have a story about this btw.
Oh God, I love this line from Shakuni. If a woman is a mother, she is revered. If she is a wife, she is adored. If she is a daughter, she is someone’s good fortune. If she is someone’s daughter-in-law, she is respected.
Too bad they didn’t adhere to the last part.
Yudhisthir is Yudhisthiring.
Also, everyone here seems to be a TERF or whatever the equivalent is for a trans man.
Why do they keep showing a water body near Kurukshetra? What even is it? The Ganga? The Yamuna? Why does it have waves?
When Shikhandin says that the war was born out of Gandhari and Shakuni and because of what Bhishma did to both of them. Chills. My man speaks FACTS.
Indra is going to pull a fast one on Karna, isn’t he?
But Daddy Surya is going to come and warn him beforehand.
Karna went from being my most favourite character as a child to my most hated as an adult. This is what I call character development.
Karna is co-opting the anti-casteism movement and my man is not even low caste?
What is this ego class between Bhishma and Karna?
Oh, nice foreshadowing with Karna and the stuck wheel!
I’ve said this before but I do not appreciate Starbharat reducing Duryodhan’s relationship with Karna as one of use. Yes, Duryodhan used Karna but they were also best friends. Don’t take that away from them!
Karna recognises Indra, doesn’t he?
Indra has always been a little bitch.
Sometimes Karna reminds me of another annoying, self-righteous person that I can’t stand—Yudhisthir.
Indra to Krishna, probably: hello, nightmare child.
FFS, Arjun doesn’t even recognise his own daddy.
Even my mother is impressed by Shaheer Sheikh’s hair game.
Arjun has finally realised and he’s on the run? What does he want to do? Warn Karna?
I don’t understand how the earrings were protecting Karna? Maybe they were just for style.
It’s time Arjun accepted himself as a nepo baby and moved on.
O RLY? Arjun bringing up Ekalavya is a class act. As if he wasn’t the one who told Dronacharya in the first place that he couldn’t teach Ekalavya—that mini casteist.
Indra says that a part of the Gods (Karna’s earrings and armour) cannot participate in the war yet Narayan himself is participating in the war on the side of the Pandavas. What is this hypocrisy?
Krishna (probably): FFS, Indra. Now I gotta come up with a backup plan for this Indrastra.
Did Krishna just summon Shakuni with dirt?
Oh, Duryodhan seems concerned for Karna and not just upset that he gave away his armour and earrings?
Shakuni looks rightfully disappointed.
Shakuni now casually quoting Balaram???
Don’t be a dumbass and tell your sons about Karna’s birth, Kunti! Your stupid sons will never fight in this war then.
Mamashri Shayla’s hairline is sending me.
Ashwatthama! I am seeing him after so long!
Shalya dragging Dhritarashtra and Gandhari is a 2023 fever dream.
Sahadev, the most inconsequential of the five Pandavas, killing Shakuni is my jam.
How does Bhishma know about Karna’s true parentage? Maybe his mother told him? She’s another piece of work.
Wtf Bhishma is not even related to Arjuna, let alone Karna, FFS.
Duryodhan stroking his sheathed sword is such a…mood.
Duryodhan telling Bhishma to resign as Senapati—you fool, that’s what he wanted all along.
Good done, Duryodhan. You have Drona and Bhishma, neither of whom will touch a hair on the Pandavas’ heads. And now you have Karna who will also not hurt the Pandavas (other than Arjun). But you don’t even know that.
It’s so much nicer in my story where Arjun asks Krishna to be his charioteer.
All the warriors bowing before the Hanuman statue except for my main man, Krishna, coz Ram does not bow before Hanuman.
Krishna looks so done with Yudhisthir’s Yudhisthiring.
Bhishma pulling an UNO reverse card.
Krishna still looks done LMAO.
OG Grandaddy is here.
Dafuq. Satyavati was still alive? How old was she? 300? She saw her grandsons’ grandsons’ kids? My brain cannot comprehend this.
Upset that everyone is calling Ved Vyas, Bhagwan, and not Daddy Pitashri.
Sanjay has been turned into a satellite dish.
Arjun already looks like he is having second thoughts.
Goddamnit it, Arjun.
Krishna is like, now is my time to ✨ shine ✨
Never seen Krishna look so disappointed by Arjun.
My man Arjun is a simpleton. Don’t confuse him further, Krishna.
Did Krishna just call Arjun…impotent?
I love it when Krishna gets mad.
The Bhagavat Gita is going to be one long exercise in calling Arjun stupid it seems.
Krishna has been acting dodgy his whole life. Arjun has known him for most of it. So has he been living under a rock that he doesn’t realise that there is more to Krishna than what meets the eye? He was married to his sister. They are literal cousins. How could he be so oblivious?
Ahimsa hi param dharma hai. We will revisit this in avatar #9.
the prime death note characters would all be in their mid-late 30s/early 40s now. we need to think about the issues which would, logically, be near and dear to their hearts. please weigh in.
[poll]
Pairing: Mobster Steve Rogers x Mobster daughter reader
Warnings: References to mob crime families, strong language, physical violence. This is a dark fic. Please read responsibly.
Disclaimer: The author of this work claims no ownership of characters aside from the reader, and original secondary characters mentioned. This work is not intended for those under the age of 18 due to explicit sexual content and darker themes. By reading this work or any works on my blog (jtargaryen18), you agree that you are at least 18 years of age. I do not consent to have my work hosted on any third party app or site. If you are seeing this fanfiction anywhere but archiveofourown and tumblr, it has been reposted without my permission.
Summary: For @alexakeyloveloki. Your father is the head of one of the most powerful crime families in Boston but he’s protected you from that life. In your quiet home outside the city, you’ve been cared for and protected. When the desires of a more powerful man with the will to dominate bursts into your life, all your illusions are shattered as he comes to claim what is his.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Steve found everyone he’d called to the meeting in the kitchen with Luca and the conversation died the minute he walked through the door. Luca was stirring something on the stove, Scott and Clint sat at the small table with Dyson and Belova. Just beyond the kitchen door, he spotted Neal outside smoking.
“We meeting here, boss?” Luca asked, wiping his hands on his apron.
All eyes were on him now including Belova’s. And he needed to deal with that first.
But they couldn’t meet in the kitchen. All he could see was his wife tipsy in her pink pajamas playing poker with his loyal men. Meeting here would mess with his head.
It felt like a betrayal.
Pushing down that anger and hurt, he steeled himself for the rest of his plan. Steve had made his decisions where his wife was concerned, and his men would have to accept it. So would his sister.
Oh, it wouldn’t be that easy he knew.
“We’re meeting in my office,” Steve told them. “Scott, if you and Clint would set up extra chairs, that would be great.”
The two nodded, rising to go do as he asked just as Neal came through the door. He followed them out of the kitchen. Luca eyed Steve speculatively, looking like he had something to say. But he just took off the apron he wore and headed for Steve’s office leaving him with Dyson and Belova.
Belova looked at him like she was facing the gallows. Dyson calmly regarded him, waiting. Steve knew Dyson wouldn’t like his decision, but it was obvious he already knew it was coming.
The young woman had impressed him while she was there. Physically, she was a force to be reckoned with and she was small. He didn’t take issue with her attitude either. She had a good demeanor for a soldier.
He just couldn’t overlook the fact that her very presence put ideas in his wife’s head. She’d taught her to use firearms without his approval. For all he knew, she arranged the fucking nurse visit herself to protect his wife. While he appreciated her loyalty, it was misplaced. A good soldier always understood the true chain of command.
“Belova,” Steve said, “your services are no longer needed. I’m sure you understand that if you talk about anything that’s happened during your employment here to anyone else, I’ll put a target on you so big you won’t last a week.”
Belova nodded rising from her chair. Her gaze met Dyson’s, some silent communication passed between them as she stopped in front of Steve, her held high.
“I understand. Thank you for the opportunity to work for you,” she said calmly. And just like that, she walked around him and headed for the stairs, presumably to pack her things.
Dyson rose from the table, his intent gaze staying on Steve.
“You have something you want to say?” Steve asked him.
Shaking his head, Dyson walked around him heading for his office.
Steve blew out a sigh as he followed him. Dyson had been his mentor, his most loyal soldier since his father died. And he was opinionated. Had no trouble making those opinions known. Usually. His silence left Steve with an ill, hollow feeling.
As he reached his office where the lot of them were gathering, Steve reminded himself that he led this family now. He led all the families. Even Dyson needed to respect that and him. Steve shouldn’t be concerned at whether he’d disappointed the man or not.
Closing the door behind him, Steve walked around the half circle of chairs placed in front of his desk. He took a seat in his chair, not used to the complete silence in the room. Normally, they were talking, laughing as they waited. Today, things were grave, tense.
“Let’s just get it out of the way,” Steve said slowly. “Because of her own actions, my wife will be confined to our room for the next four weeks. I’m counting on all of you to respect my wishes here. You’ll make sure she gets her meals along with any supplies she needs, fresh towels and linens. But no visits. I want conversation kept to a minimum. I have her phone and laptop. She has some thinking to do.”
As his gaze crept across the room, Steve took in their reactions. All of them were stone-faced except Clint who looked like he had something to say and Neal.
Was Neal smirking?
“Do you have her gun, boss?” Neal asked, earning him a sold glare from Dyson and Luca.
Steve had been so upset with the entire confrontation that he hadn’t considered that. Fuck.
“I’ll take care of it,” Steve told Neal.
“What about Nat?” Clint said. “She allowed in to see her?”
Steve shook his head. “Not right now. Once Nat’s had time to recover, maybe.”
He knew better than to tell Clint or Nat that he had no intention of letting his sister in to see his wife. Nat had led her astray too with her little stunt at the hospital. Better to let them think Nat would see her at some point. Otherwise, he knew Nat would create drama and it was the last thing he needed right now.
Clint nodded but he knew Steve well enough not to completely buy that answer. Clint was also smart enough to know that if he or Nat disobeyed him, they risked their newly allowed relationship.
“Belova is no longer working with us.” Steve wanted to get that out of the way too. “I gave her a trial period. It didn’t work out.”
Scott’s gaze and shoulders dropped. Now Neal really was smirking.
Neal had been the one who told him the truth about his wife’s visitor to begin with. The man was a hell of a soldier and missed nothing. He’d saved Steve’s life a couple of times in the last few years.
He didn’t have a lot of social niceties, granted. But he didn’t need to be nice. He needed to be effective. Steve had never known the man to have a girlfriend or a wife. Maybe his gruff manner was the reason for that.
Still, the man had never seemed to have a lot of patience for his boss’s wife. Maybe he would have if she’d ever remembered her place and, like Neal, did her duty.
Her words were still running through his head.
...he wasn’t so quick to protect me when Banner stormed in this house. Scott pulled me away. Yelena saved me.
Everyone in the household adored his wife. Everyone but Neal…
“Want me to take care of Belova?” Neal asked. “Eliminate any liability?”
Dyson’s glare at Neal was hostile. “Take care of Belova?”
Neal glared back. “With everything she knows? It would be unwise to just let her fall into the wrong hands.”
“She won’t fall into the wrong hands,” Dyson said, color darkening his face in a way Steve hadn’t seen in an age. “Belova isn’t your problem.”
“Give it a rest, Dad,” Neal shot back.
“Hey,” Steve spoke loudly to get their attention. “That’s enough. Belova has been warned. She disregards that warning we’ll deal with her then.”
Neal wasn’t happy with that answer and Dyson kept glaring at him.
Steve needed to get the meeting back on course.
“Now, why you’re all here,” Steve said. “We need to take back control of Boston. We need to deal with Barnes, and we need to send a strong message to the other families while we’re at it.”
“It’s about fucking time, boss,” Luca said.
It was. Steve had given a lot of thought to what they needed to do as head family. Not easy to do in his study with visions of his wife on his desk lingering in the back of his mind along with the hurt he’d read in her expression when he’d taken her phone and presented her punishment.
Focus.
From Steve’s point of view, Clint had been shot, a store on their family’s turf had been hit and its employees brutalized. A girl from a donut shop on their turf was still missing, and Lloyd Hansen brought a goon squad to his house, trying to get to his wife.
Natasha? He didn’t think Barnes had anything to do with that, but he wanted to be thorough. They would take a closer look at Banner.
The tension from the discussion about his wife never completely dissipated. But as he explained the plan and listened to the feedback of his men as he went over each component, what they came up with was even better than what he originally plotted. If they did it right, it settled all accounts. It dealt with Banner, Hansen, and Barnes himself.
“What about the house, boss?” Clint finally said as they began to wrap up the meeting. They’d been in there for three hours. “Your wife and sister?”
Steve met his gaze. “I’ll be here,” he assured him. “I’ve got Luca and I’ll have an army of soldiers covering this place. No one touches them.”
Clint nodded, the hint of doubt in his gaze making Steve realize that maybe it wasn’t the best time to deal with his wife as he had. He risked dividing their loyalties at a crucial time.
Pushing down those doubts, Steve told himself with so many things about to happen and what was sure to be a tense crime landscape across Boston for the next several weeks, his wife was safest where she was. She wouldn’t do anything unexpected. She wouldn’t get hurt.
And no one would take her away from him. He’d personally kill anyone who tried again.
Steve adjourned the meeting, watching as Clint and Scott followed Luca out. Neal remained after the door closed, looking like he had something he wanted to talk about.
Dyson didn’t move from his chair either, his jaw tight. He was pissed.
Neal didn’t look at him. His chuckle was a dry, humorless sound. “Problem, Dyson?”
“Yeah,” Dyson said with deceptive calm. “I’ve got a big fucking problem.”
Neal cut him an angry glance. “Maybe you should retire already.”
Fuck. Steve needed to cut this off before it got going.
“Whatever business you two have needs to wait until our family business is done,” Steve said firmly. “Is that in any way unclear?”
“No, boss,” Neal said tersely.
Dyson stood up, focused on Neal. “This business can’t wait.”
“Dyson—”
“You so much as look at Belova wrong,” Dyson warned Neal, his face darkened in anger, “and I’ll fuck you up, son.”
“I mean you no disrespect, boss,” Neal said to Steve, “but I think leaving Belova out there is a risk we can’t take. You cast her out. If she doesn’t run off to one of the other families and sell us out to save her own ass, someone will find her and make her sing. If Barnes gets to her, we’re fucked.”
Steve couldn’t deny any of those scenarios was a possibility. He didn’t know her well, but she’d earned the respect of everyone else in his household, most especially his wife. Neal had been the only exception. He didn’t seem to have paid her much attention until now.
If he put a hit on Belova, he could kiss any chance of a happy marriage goodbye. And Dyson? Something told him that his mentor would never forgive him either. Dyson didn’t go to bat for just anyone.
“She’s not going to the other families, and no one is going to get to her,” Dyson spoke to Steve now. “You have my word.”
Neal shook his head. “The word of an old man. What’s that worth?”
Neal watched Dyson approach him, smirking. The older man stopped in front of him and landed a powerful kick to the center of Neal’s chest, the blow forcing the air out of his chest. The kick sent him and the heavy wooden chair tumbling backwards, hitting the floor with a loud crash. Neal was stunned and breathless, scrambling to get out of the chair, to stand. Dyson was on him the minute he rolled out of the chair onto all fours, taking a knee and grabbing his hair at the back of his head, Dyson slammed Neal’s face into the floor. Once. Twice.
“Stop!” Steve yelled after the third slam left Neal’s nose bleeding, his face deep red in color.
Dyson paused, still clutching Neal’s head. Holding it in place, he punched the younger man in the face viciously with his free hand before shoving him away roughly. Deciding he still wasn’t done, Dyson kicked Neal in the ribs hard. The younger man’s body contracted in pain, and he collapsed to the floor.
Glaring at Steve, Dyson looked livid as he rose, his hands clenched into fists. “Leave Belova alone.”
Stalking to the door of Steve’s office, Dyson paused. His hand was on the doorknob, his knuckles red.
Steve had heard stories about Dyson’s brutality when he’d been a younger man. In their world, the stories got taller as the years went on. But the man commanded respect and just now he could see why. If Dyson could do that now, what had he been like when he was Steve’s age?
“I will take care of Mrs. Rogers in her confinement,” Dyson said meaningfully. "You could live a hundred lifetimes and not deserve your wife. You should know that."
Then Dyson pointed to Neal who still lay on the floor. “If that motherfucker comes within 500 feet of her door? I’ll fuck him up worse.”
With that, Dyson opened the door and marched out.
***
You lay on the bed that your husband was abandoning for the next month, curled on your side in the dark. You were resigned to your fate, isolated and cut off from most everything. For what you did to Yelena, you deserved that at the very least.
Yelena had been your friend, your confidant. When you’d whined to her about not wanting to get pregnant, and that was your problem not hers, she found a way to help you. To protect you.
You knew her awful backstory with Hansen. Because of you, she’d been tossed out. She was in danger. Very real danger. And if something happened to her, you’d never forgive yourself.
Tears threatened to return, and you stubbornly fought them.
At the sound of the knock at the door, you didn’t move. You waited.
The lock clicked and the light from beyond the bedroom outlined Dyson’s frame as he walked in, closing the door behind him. His voice was low when he called your name, his eyes adjusting to the darkness as he gazed around the room.
His gaze found you and he carefully approached the bed, turning on the lamp on your bedside table. You blinked in the yellow light through your tears.
Dyson sat on the bed next to you, the concern on his face breaking you open. “Come here.”
Your body just moved. You wanted that comfort. His heavy arms closed around you, and he just let you cry. No questions. No judgment. You realized over the last couple of years, Dyson was your father in your heart. The father you never really had.
When you finally felt like you could talk, you eased back. Dyson still looked concerned as he reached for the box of tissues on the table and handed them to you. Pulling one, you dabbed at your eyes.
But you were still miserable.
“Dyson,” you said. “I’m s-so sorry.”
Dyson shook his head. “You didn't do anything that bad.”
“I did,” you told him tearfully. “I d-didn’t tell him about the appointment. Don’t you see? If I hadn’t b-been so selfish, Yelena wouldn’t… I mean, I wouldn’t have put her up to… Oh, God. Yelena…” You sobbed. “She’s never going to forgive me. She trusted me and she’s out there and…”
Dyson carefully took your shoulders in his hands, getting on eye level with you as you cried.
“Listen to me,” he said firmly. “Can you do that? Can you listen for a minute?”
You nodded, swiping at your tears with your fingers.
“Yelena doesn’t hate you,” Dyson said quietly. “She’s worried sick about you. And I know it was her idea to bring that nurse here. Not yours. She told me.”
“I betrayed her,” you whined.
“You did not,” Dyson explained. “But the two of you were betrayed.”
“Neal?”
“Yeah, Neal,” Dyson said tightly.
“Is she alright?” You had to know. “I know what happened to her before… Hansen. Dyson, if he gets her…”
The older man shook his head. “I ain’t going to let anything happen to Yelena anymore than I’m going to let anything happen to you.”
That brought on a fresh bout of tears. “Please keep her safe. I’ll do anything. Please.”
“Hush,” he told you. “No one is getting Yelena. I’ve got her stashed away. She’s safe with trusted friends.”
“You promise?”
Dyson nodded. “Feel better now?”
You did. You were so grateful.
“Do me a favor,” Dyson said. “Go get me your .22.”
Your gun? Of course. Why wouldn’t Steve ask for that too? Was he afraid you’d take a shot at him?
"H-he asked for it?" you asked.
“Nah,” Dyson said. “It wasn’t Steve who thought of it. It was fucking Neal.”
You shook your head, anger flaring beneath the surface. “Neal really hates me, huh?”
“I’m not sure what his deal is yet, but I’ll find out,” he said.
“He just always gets away with it,” you said.
You didn’t know what to do with the little smirk that earned you. “Not necessarily. Now, go get me that gun.”
Swallowing hard, you rose from the bed and went to your closet. You pulled the bundle from its hiding place. Why you kept It hidden still, you couldn’t have said after Steve joined you that evening for target practice.
But there were two guns in there. The .22 and the 9mm Yelena gave you that day. You were in enough trouble as it was, so you brought them both out to Dyson, setting them on the bed between you.
Dyson eyed both guns, their clips, and two boxes of ammo. Nodding, he took the .22, its clips and ammo, but left the other handgun and all that went with it. You watched his expression as he tucked the items away in his coat pocket.
“Steve know where you kept these?” he asked.
You shook your head.
“Then put this back where you’ve been keeping it,” he told you, pointing at the 9mm. “He doesn’t realize you still have this one.”
The surprise must have shown on your face. “Why?”
Dyson sighed. “Look, the next several days? Steve is taking care of business in a big way. And I’m not going to lie. Things are going to be dangerous for a while, yeah?”
Oh, God. Steve was going to deal with Barnes?
“I’m sorry that he found out about what you girls got up to and reacted the way he did. I don’t agree with it. Yeah, you shouldn’t have kept that from him, and you know that. But he’s hurt. And when he gets hurt, he gets pissed. He’s drastic. I’m not justifying what he did. But it’s not exactly the worst thing right now.”
“What do you mean?” you asked.
“If you are here and Yelena and Nat are where they are,” he said slowly, “I don’t got to worry about any of you getting hurt. It would kill me if something happened to you. And Steve…”
“Steve put our marriage on hold until my shot is no longer in effect,” you said bitterly. “A month. That's what I mean to him.”
Dyson chuckled. “The only reason he’s going to make it a week is because of the shit that’s going down in the next few days. It won’t be a month.”
“Or he’ll have someone else take care of his needs,” you threw in.
“If you honestly think that, you’re not the woman I thought you were,” Dyson said seriously.
“He wants me for a broodmare,” you said, hating the hurt you heard in your own voice. “I was stupid enough to think he might care for me but all he wants is a dutiful wife and kids. I’m not dutiful. I’m anything but fucking dutiful.”
Dyson’s smiled widened. “That’s honestly why he’s so obsessed with you. Don’t you know that?”
You didn’t feel like you understood anything anymore.
“He has no intention of letting anyone breach this house again but just in case,” Dyson said, “I don’t want you in this room defenseless. You shot Hansen. You could defend yourself again if you had to.”
“Thank you.” You meant it.
“Now, I’m the one who’s going to be bringing you meals and whatever else you need,” he explained. “And you will eat. None of that dramatic, hunger strike bullshit on my watch.”
You had to laugh at that. It sounded like something you’d come up with.
“Let us get through this week,” Dyson said, seriously, “and Steve will come to his senses. You’ll work it out. But be patient, okay? You are safest here.”
Your shoulders dropped and you blew out an exhale. “If you say so.”
“I do say so,” Dyson said, rising from the bed. “I’ll go get your dinner.”
He’d almost made it to the door when you thought of something. “Dyson?”
Slowly he turned around. He used to do the same at the house where you grew up, an odd moment of déjà vu.
“Keep Steve safe? Please?” You had no idea what Steve was planning but if it involved Barnes and likely Hansen, you knew the danger was great.
Dyson flashed you a knowing smile before he walked out of the room, locking the door behind him.
PS: Just on my fic posts, I'm adding a tip function. In honor of our kitty we just lost, I'm donating everything to our local animal shelter. Tips are not, will never be, and have never been expected. But if you feel so inclined, thank you. 🙏
List 5 things that make you happy, then put this in the askbox for the last ten people who reblogged something from you! Get to know your mutuals & followers!! <3
Video games. Probably kinda obvious but I really enjoy playing games. The fun interactions, the stories, the music, the atmosphere, etc. It's all great. I've also really come to appreciate how difficult it is to make any kind of game as I get older, so anytime a great game comes out I see it much more like a humongous team effort from x number of people (or a herculean effort from one person) than just a fun product on a store shelf.
Food. Whether it's the same old burger place I always go to or a new experience that I've never tried before, I really do just like enjoying food. I should probably cut down on snacks...
Animes/Movies/TV shows. So many excellent stories out there. The specific medium (TV broadcast, internet streaming, film projection, etc) doesn't matter much if the story does its job and takes you someplace completely different.
Space. I like to look up at the stars. Sometimes I wonder if we'll ever get to see all our cool Sci-fi stuff (space colonies, cool ships, dyson spheres, intergalactic slingshots, etc) in real life and accessible to regular people. The stars are so beautiful and I can only hope we can see them better from up there.
My wonderful girlfriend. Saved the best for last! Honestly every minute I'm with her is not enough, and everything about her puts a smile on my face. I love you her so much.
Now I'm supposed to tag the last 10 people or something? Let's see...
@santiaguete072
@duwango
@zoraswaterfall
@idealicsounds
@wanderingpanacea
@mothcant
@a-whimsical-jackalope
@stroyent
@mafreiidyne
@dilfbrigade
Eh, close enough. Do it if you want, or don't, I'm not the boss of you. But if you do, we could do an art trade for it!
Here are all the MAFS Australia 2023 cast's first Insta posts since the experiment — The absence of Harrison is appreciated.
Sleeping elephant seals fall through ocean's depths, and some even nap on the sea floor — If I had a nose like that, I’d hide in the depths too.
Why are you crying? — On topic.
Flandalorian: The Mandalorian but made out of flan
Archive of fictional brands
Eddie Van Halen’s ‘Hot for Teacher’ Guitar Sells for $3.9 Million at Auction — The estate probably needs the money, and Wolfie probably doesn’t want it, but still… I feel like it should have stayed in the family.
Researchers Argue Black Holes Will Destroy All Quantum States
Hitting the Books: We'd likely have to liquidate Jupiter to build a Dyson Sphere around the Sun
Bed Bath & Beyond Files for Bankruptcy as Turnaround Fails — BB&B is one of those stores that Amazon should have killed almost immediately… I’m honestly shocked they survived for so long.
There’s only one right way to watch Ghosted — TL;DR: Don’t watch the trailer. At all.
The secret reason that the Boggle letters were changed
AI Image Generator Is Making Wild And Horrifying Game Controllers
Wes Anderson's Staged Re-Creations of Out of Sight, Armageddon, and The Truman Show for the 1999 MTV Movie Awards — Watching Wes Anderson riff on the mediocre movies of 1999 is a curious experience… these spots aren’t so much funny as they are fascinating. Which I suppose is a charge that could be leveled at Anderson’s actual movies, but fuck those killjoys.
John Mellencamp Asks If Weapons Are Really Our Right in New ‘Hey God’
Fascinating video compares the heights of famous people throughout history — Alexander? Not so great.
How the Legendary Chuck Jones Became a Great Artist — There’s not much new here if you’ve watched longer Jones retrospectives, but it’s a nice place to start.
My Balls-Out Quest to Achieve the Perfect Scrotum — The perfect scrotum is whatever fits in a bitch’s mouth.
It’s a laser bong — Yes, it is. And I am in love.
Can ActivityPub save the internet? — Probably not, but let’s find out. Get that shit working already, Tumblr.
The dry herb and concentrate vape pens you need to enjoy a vaporous 4/20 — I’m late with this one, but Tumblr is being a pain in the ass about publishing these news posts.
But not for the food stall, for a chance to interact with THE Krystle Dyson! On this return to the city, Krystle can also appreciate the large increase in her clout since she left! The fashion district used to be her stomping grounds and it's nice to feel the love (I mean TRULY; she has the self-absorbed trait lmbo), from city-dwellers and tourists alike!
Roger's not a hater and he doesn't liken himself to a public figure, so he smiles from the sidelines, purchasing a few souvenirs behind Krystle's back! He hesitates to interrupt, asking Krystle if she wants a drink? On the way over, a voice calls out, "I know who you are too, young man!" and Mr. Landgraab knows what it's like to also have such a powerful woman in his corner.
The 16th of February 1746 in what became known as the Rout of Moy, Government forces under Lord Louden attempt to capture Prince Charles Edward Stewart at Moy Hall.
Around midnight on 16th/17th February 1746, Lord Loudon, the Commander of the Hanoverian forces in the north, mustered 1500 troops from the Inverness Garrison and set off on the twelve mile march south along General Wade’s Road to Moy in a bid to capture Prince Charles Edward Stuart. The prince, a guest of Lady Anne Mackintosh (Colonel Anne) at Moy Hall, had arrived with a small guard of 50 men, some distance ahead of his retreating Highland Army.
Pitch darkness interspersed with flashing lightning slowed and unsettled the marching men.
Watching the road here, 3 miles from Moy Hall, was an ‘outer guard’ of just five Jacobites led by Donald Fraser, the Moy Blacksmith. He had chosen a spot where he could observe movement on the skyline to the north in darkness, and where he had cover to the south in daylight. Nearby to the east, peat stacks remained out on the moor. Here he planned to harass, and perhaps deceive, the enemy.
As the Hanoverian Column, spearheaded by the Laird of MacLeod and his men approached in the darkness, they were surprised by sudden musket fire and loud war cries urging clansmen to battle. Even the peat stacks threatened in the flashing lightning. Convinced that the whole Highland Army was at hand, Loudon’s men turned in panic and fled back to Inverness, somehow carrying off the body of Donald Ban MacCrimmon, Piper to MacLead and the only fatality of the night. A premonition of his imminent death had been realised.
This skirmish took place two months prior to the Battle of Culloden. Donald Fraser died in 1804 and lies buried in Moy Churchyard.
The above information is displayed at the Cairn.
On the cold, dull but dry afternoon of Saturday l6th April, a sizeable crowd of over 200 people attended the unveiling of a new cairn making the site of the skirmish known as “The Rout of Moy”.
This event was organised mainly by Donald MacAskill of Tomatin, James Ingram of Aberdeen, and James and Elma Singer of Ellon, with valuable assistance from Brian Duff of Forest Enterprise. Building work was carried out by Murdo MacAskill, Fred Jamison and Willie MacAskill, all of Inverness.
The unveiling ceremony was preceded by a stirring demonstration of drumming skills by the Clann an Drumma (4 drummers and a piper) from Glasgow.
During the ceremony wreaths were laid in memory of Donald Ban MacCrimmon, and a one minute silence was observed.
After the ceremony Donald MacAskill thanked the following people for their participation:-
HRH Prince Michael of Albany for unveiling the cairn.
Dr Seamus H Grant of Rothiernurchus for his address in Gaelic.
Hector MacKenzie of Skye for his prayers.
Judith Dyson of Kingussie for playing the lament.
Kenneth Borthwick of Dundee for the musket salute.
Afterwards an appreciative large crowd enjoyed the hospitality of the Coleman family at the Tomatin Inn who provided welcoming plates of soup and stovies. Music was provided by Clann an Drumma, Judith Dyson, James Home, Fred Jamison and Andy Shaw. It was a most enjoyable day which will long be remembered by those present.