mnm-inc-miles

[mnm-inc-miles]

07/21/2024

“Wait, so Sly’s not coming?” Travis would cock his head, trying to read Iggy and failing, as per usual. He’d look over at Basil and add, “You said he’d want to come.” Basil would nod at him, and shrug in slight confusion.

“It seems he has other plans now, we waited too long,” Iggy stated, his voice a bit hesitant but almost barely noticeable.

Basil would catch it though, narrow his eyes as he searches Iggy, bite his lip a moment and sigh, looking over at Travis who’s face would be riddled with guilt. “Don’t overthink it Travis, miscommunication happens, it’s not a big deal.”

“But he came to see the race, I should have went back to see them before the stupid press conference.”

“You’ve got to do your job, he’ll understand,” Iggy would offer. Tucking his phone away knowing Sly likely moved on from the moment, or at least was trying to distract his sorrows. He’d see his Phoenix sore overhead and circle an island in the distance. His eyes would fall on Basil who would be looking across the water at the approaching body of land with significant interest. “Everything okay?” His Phoenix would then return and sit beside him, gently nudging him.

Travis would look over at Basil then back at Iggy and raise a brow, then direct his attention to Basil again, “Hey Captain BB, are we setting sail for that island or something?” He would have a response at first and Travis would move closer and touch his shoulder, “Basil…” and he would jump which would simultaneously cause Travis to jump and squeal. “What the heck man, you scared me, you good?”

Basil would nod and offer a slight smile, “Yes, I am, there’s…something about this island, do you guys feel that? It’s like…almost magnetic, like…it’s pulling us…”

“Maybe it’s just the tide,” Travis would laugh and look back at Iggy and shrug.

Iggy would shake his head, “I don’t think Phoenix is a fan, maybe we should leave it.”

“Maybe…” Basil would watch it, curiously still. “What do you think he doesn’t like…because I’m very curious.”

“And that’s what killed the cat. I’m out, I say we don’t go.”

“LOOK!” Travis would explain. “Holy shit there’s smoke, what if there’s someone stranded?”

“Doubt it. It’s unlikely that it’s uninhabited, probably just a local. Let’s turn around.”

Travis would pivot the boat and start to turn it around, Basil still watching the island as if it were calling to him specifically now. As the boat continues to move it would seem as if it isn’t getting any further away. He’d feel a panic growing within him, as the waves crash along the side and he can tell it’s moving but the island doesn’t seem to be fading in the distance.

“What’s happening,” Travis would grit his teeth. “I turned around and we’ve been going for 20 minutes and we’re not any further away…fuck, are we in trouble?”

Iggy would stand up and the skies would suddenly darken, dramatically. The engine of the boat would seize and it would slowly start drifting backwards, toward the island. “Basil, are you doing this?”

He’d turn around, innocently, eyes wide, “No…”

“How could he?” Travis would gasp.

“The island is calling him, clearly. I just…wanted to make sure he wasn’t allowing it to happen.”

“What?” Travis would be confused as he looks between the two. “Are you? Can you…even do that?”

“I don’t think so,” Basil would sigh and shake his head. “Maybe it’s not in our power, you know? Like…”

“Oh man…” Travis would tremble.

“Do you have any idea why this could be happening,” Iggy would look at Basil, very seriously. “Because if you do, now would be an appropriate time to inform us, because, we might be wrapped up in this with you now.”

Basil would look guilty and shake his head, “I mean…I don’t know, I’ve been having weird dreams and hearing some distant chanting, but I’ve no idea what any of it means…”

“Chanting?!” Travis would squeak. “What…what kind, like, fuck, like some kind of a cult or something?”

“I don’t know, I wish I did, but I don’t…I’m sorry.” Basil’s eyes would start to water and he looks at the two of them. “Maybe..maybe if I just…swim ahead it will leave you guys behind?” The thought was fleeting because he knew they’d never let that happen, and he knew whatever was ahead of him wasn’t something he could handle on his own. “I’m sorry…” Basil would begin to wilt.

Iggy would move to the other side of the boat where Travis and Basil were standing, his Phoenix now circling above them. “Basil, it’s time to be strong. Do not fold now, just because we’re here with you. We can do this, whatever it is, together. We are strong, I know you believe that.”

Travis would shake his head slightly then swallow hard and put on a brave face. “Iggy is right, we’re here for you, with you, together.” Basil would nod, the worry still evident in his features but he would look ahead at the island and try to focus his attention on his talents. The boat would drift onto the shore and waves would push it into the sand. Iggy would look to Basil for the first move, and he’d inhale and exhale slowly, climbing over the edge and landing in the sand. He’d drop to his knees and his head would tilt back and the whites of his eyes would appear, his body seizing for just a moment before he hangs his head and begins to catch his breath.

“Basil!” Travis would jump over to help him, “You okay?”

“Yes,” he’d nod. “Definitely, just…didn’t expect to get some kind of a vision…”

“Is that what just happened?”

“Sort of, it’s hard to explain.” He’d look back at Iggy and shake his head. “I just…I don’t know what to do, I don’t want either of you to get hurt…not because of me…”

“You better not be asking us to wait here,” Travis stated definitively. “You’re blinking mad if that’s what you’re thinking.”

“Travis…”

“He’s right,” Iggy would chime in.

“What?!” Travis would exclaim.

He’d look angrily at Iggy who would roll his eyes, “You’re right Travis, not Basil. We aren’t sending him in there on his own, that could be a death sentence.” Travis would sigh in relief and Basil’s eyes would grow sad for a moment, then determined. “You know we can’t let you do it alone, Basil, better come to terms with that.” And he’d jump over the side as Basil stands, taking another deep breath.

They began their walk toward the center of the island, following Basil’s pull. The Phoenix would be flying close by, trying a few times to put distance between them and Basil, especially Iggy, pulling at his sleeves. “Phoenix enough,” Iggy would growl. “Either be helpful or get lost.”

“That’s not a nice way to talk to your bird,” Travis stated, half jokingly.

“He’s warning me of a danger I already know is coming, it’s annoying. We don’t have a choice, he should understand that.”

“He’s just a bird.”

“Oh Travis, he is so much more than a bird.” The Phoenix would sit on the ground behind them as they continue in further, kicking dirt and flapping his wings, as if throwing a fit. Travis would chuckle slightly and ask if he does that a lot and Iggy would shake his head. “I’ve never really been in any danger before, so, no. He hasn’t, but I think it’s his job to protect me.”

“What do you mean his job…” Travis would ask as they walk into a clearing with a single rather small tree stump in the center of it all, some haphazard larger rocks forming around it. Iggy would shh him and focus on Basil.  Travis would speak further, “What does this mean?” He’d look around searching for the danger and be very confused. “There’s nothing here…”

“Quiet,” Iggy would reiterate. “Do you feel that…” he’d pause a minute and call out for Basil. “There’s magic here, do you feel it?” The young wizard would nod as he takes very slow steps closer, his hand reaching out, his chest heaving. “Don’t touch anything yet…maybe we should cast a charm, see what we’re dealing with..” Basil would freeze and look back at Iggy and nod. Iggy would pull his wand out, as the other boys followed suit. He’d cast a reveal spell and the center stump would start to glow.

“Do you think maybe it’s some kind of…port key maybe?” Travis would watch the stump at the center of all the stones, curiously.

Iggy would look around at the rocks and cock his head, “These rock formations, they seem…familiar, like I’ve seen them before…”

Basil’s hand would outstretch one more time, taking small steps closer to the glowing stump once more. “Basil…Iggy said don’t touch it yet…” But Basil would keep moving, unable to hear them anymore, enveloped by the chanting only he could hear. He’d be mere inches from the stump and Travis would reach out to grab him and look back at Iggy, arm stretched out to take his hand. The Phoenix would sore between them, flapping his huge wings and knocking Iggy back onto the ground. Basil’s fingertips would touch the stump and immediately the two boys would disappear.

“NO!” Iggy would shout, jumping back up and touching the stump, then banging it with his fist. “What if I needed to be there!?” He’d shout angrily at his bird. “Three is better than two, Phoenix, you’ve made me abandon them…” and tears would swell in his eyes and he’d sit there defeated. His bird would try to move closer and he’d push him away with a wave of his arm. Phoenix would sit a bit off in the distance, just watching him.

The portkey would bring them to a very large rock, a women strewn upon it, wrists and neck slashed wide open, blood spilling out onto the rock. Basil would see her and instantly breakdown into tears. Travis would touch his shoulder, “She’s gone…”

“I know, I know she is…” he would sob. “I don’t understand what’s happening…” he’d be clawing to get closer to her and Travis would be trying to hold him back. “Let go, maybe…maybe she can tell me something,” and he’d pull free from Travis and his hand would fall upon her wrist and his eyes would roll back into his head.

“Oh man, Basil, I hate this shit…” and he’d just wait helplessly for Basil to come back to him. After a grueling sixty seconds Basil would hang his head a moment and give it a shake. Then he’d look up and over in the distance, “Travis look…” and he’d point a bloody hand at the rock formation.

“Is that Stonehenge?” Travis would gasp and shake his head. “I guess those rocks did look familiar…”

“We need to go there…”

“Are you sure?” Travis would squeak, his bravery wavering a moment. He’d take a deep breath and nod. “If you say so, then I’m with you.”

As the two approach the walls of the ancient architecture, wands both at the ready, they’d very quickly find themselves outnumbered. Spears pointing at them from every direction. Basil would very slowly begin to tuck his wand away and Travis would shake his head, “What are you doing?”

“I don’ think Magic will help us now…”

“Fuck that,” and he’d point his wand and shout a handful of spells knocking people back with bursts of fire, and slicing. ‘“We can fight them, Basil.”

“I don’t think I can…” he’d wilt, but take his wand out and shoots spells of wind gusts to push people back. They’d be shocked but they’d stand back up and keep coming.

“Defensive spells, really? We’re fighting for our lives, Basil. You have to do more.” He’d shake his head, his back against Travis now. “Mate…”

“I can’t Travis, I can’t…I don’t want to kill anyone…”

“You’d rather we die!?” Travis would be skillfully throwing out very aggressive spells, people would be screaming in pain and Basil would begin to get lightheaded, and stumble to the ground, and pass out. “Basil! Wake up…” Travis would stand defensively over him, throwing spells endlessly before a spear catches him in his side and he crumbles to the ground and begins to black out.

When Travis awakens only a few moments later, he would find Basil tied up on a slab of stone with a man standing above him and the crowd of people surrounding them, chanting. Travis would be fuming. “Let him go!” He’d be trying to fight his restraints and the but of a spear would hit his head and he’d black out again. When he wakes again, Basil’s body would be seizing, the whites of his eyes would be showing, his body would be glowing very faintly. Travis would look around at all the faces, a lot of them seemingly confused by some of the details of what was happening. Clearly, they’ve never tried to fuck with a wizard before. He would remain quiet this time, and close his eyes, focusing his heart and his mind on his patronus.

After a little bit of time, a lion would appear and start to attack all the people, slaughtering them in the process. He’d take down every single one of them before the patronus would walk over and bite the ropes that bind Travis as it slowly fades away. He’d hurry over to Basil who would still be seizing. Travis would untie him and try to shake him awake.

“Basil…come on man, what…what can I do…” and his eyes would start to fill with tears as his own vision begins to darken. He’d look down at his wound, blood soaking his shirt. He’d take out his wand and point it at his wound, wincing a moment then shooting flames out, cauterizing the wound and screaming in pain. He’d lean over Basil who’s body would suddenly become still. “Basil please wake up…” Travis would whine.

His eyes would slowly open, and he’d mumble in confusion “Is Sly here?”

“What? No…what are you talking about, fuck I thought you were dead…”

He’d shake his head, his body shivering. “No…no I’m, uh, I’m okay I think…”

“What the hell was happening? Who are…were these people?” Basil would sit up and look around at all the dead bodies and his head would drop a bit, the weight of all the death would be a lot for him. He’d swallow hard, his body still shivering. “Basil, talk to me man, what…why did you mention Sly? Do you understand any more about what happened?”

“Mmm, I…I think they were ancient druids…trying to conjure a deity of some kind, using me as a conduit to do so.” He’d look around and shake his head. “are you sure he’s not here, I just…I heard him, I swear I did…”

“No dude, it’s just me. Not even Iggy is here, we need to get out of here…I need some serious medical attention…”

Basil would redirect his attention to Travis and his eyes would widen in horror, “Oh no Travis…”

“It’s fine, really, I mean it’s not, but like…we just need to leave. I think I’ve lost a lot of blood, I need a doctor now…”

“Okay, here, let me help you…” and he’d go to stand and his body would just collapse. He’d be on his hands and knees and tears would be falling as his body still shakes. “I don’t understand what’s happening…”

Travis would kneel down beside him and lift his head and look in his eyes, “It’s you right, you’re not possessed?”

Basil would smile softly and shake his head, “No, no it’s me…the deity or whatever it was, I fought it off, it’s gone…I think I’m just…tired,” and he’d hang his head in shame. Travis would just embrace him and tell him it would be okay, they would just sit for a few minutes and wait until he’s regained some strength, and they’d try to find a way back home.

[mnm-inc-miles]

WRITING

Hanna x Joey x Jake - 01/22/24

Hanna had gathered all the information she needed at this point. Leave it to her sister to have a trick like this up her sleeve. How did Hanna have zero idea about this title of Auntie that she held over Jake. About this secret child she rescued and possibly groomed. But through enough scouting, conversations with the parents and talks in the grapevines, Hanna learned a lot of information about this new danger. She could now assess the height of the threat.

Zihanna created a magic (of course, she was a prolific witch) to turn Jake into a person and made an alliance with vampires to share his blood. His blood, which held properties similar to that of a unicorn, where it can heal you, but also maintained its property that suited vampires, allowing resistance to the sun.

She somehow took a part of herself and gave it to Jake. Twice. The first time was when she saved him from the brink of death. She gave her magic blood to save him, then took him to a couple who indebted themselves to her for reasons Hanna still couldn’t understand. Regardless. They raised him and when he was 5 years old, he asked if there was any chance he could be a human boy, at least some of the time. He’d fallen in love with film and wanted to pursue it as a career. The wheels spun in Zihanna’s mind and she told him she’d look into it. It took 6 months and she created a magic that allowed this to happen. Using a part of herself, mixed with unicorns blood, some transfiguration spells, and lots of dark magic, she ultimately made it happen. The benefit for Zihanna, which Jake must not have known or understood as a child, was having a way out, should she need it. A last resort savior, basically a horcrux. Which meant if she could get her hands on Jake, and kill him, she would regain her life once again, instead of being a sliver of herself stuck in hell.

Hanna couldn’t let this happen. She wouldn’t. Because if her sister came back it would be constant battles again to keep Alex safe and anyone close to her would be leverage, therefore in danger. She couldn’t lose yet another family. Her heart couldn’t bear it. Having people do Zihanna’s bidding here and there while she’s stuck in hell was manageable, but to have her run amuck with full access to her ridiculously overpowered magic, was too dangerous.

This state of panic caused her to spiral. She broke and found a dealer. She bought some heroin and cocaine. Saved the coke for later and hit up the heroin immediately. This allowed her body and brain to sink into a state of euphoria. Where she stopped thinking and stressing about the task that was to come. Getting rid of the threat. Taking out Jake. Shame he was innocent in all this, but she couldn’t risk Zihanna getting him first.

She slept off the rest of the high and awoke in the morning feeling drained. She snorted a line of coke and crawled back into bed. She slept another three days. Waking to eat, then resting, storing energy and fueling up to use her magic. Finally it was time to put her plan into action. She grabbed the remainder of coke, snorted a line and pocketed the rest, then left the hotel she’d been staying at.

Joey was known as a skilled fighter, so he could pose a serious challenge. He’d gone against some very skilled vampires, and won. She looked into his reputation and his kill list was surprisingly long, the number of missions and combat situations he’d been in were much more than she anticipated. But she’d take a couple more days to rest, focus and harness her power, and she’d just need to knock him out first so she could kill Jake without conflict.

She would strike Sunday night. It made the most sense since both of them would be attending a wedding ceremony, likely have drinks, full bellies, and dwindling energy by the time they return home. However, she may then need to account for Otto being around too. Could she really take on Joey and a seemingly quite capable wizard? Perhaps it would be wiser to wait until early hours of the morning when the boy left for school and the other two were sleeping off possible hangovers.

She changed into her cat form and slipped into the building through the arms of a stranger. She had a warm bed and a decent meal of canned tuna, and slept the day away, waking at 6am and scratching to be let out. It took a little convincing but the person finally got the hint and opened the door in a dreary half sleep state.

She wandered up the stairs to the top floor where she knew Joey lived with Jake. She waited by the door and listened, saving her magic until it was time to act. When the door began to rattle she turned herself invisible, a power she could maintain in cat form for a short while, but she knew it was glitchy especially when she was using. Her sister was always a much better witch, but Hanna was crafty and strong.

Once the door opened she very quietly slipped into the apartment as Joey walked out with Otto, Riggs, and Tom drawing only a mild amount of attention from the dogs. Joey walked down the stairs, kissing Otto goodbye and letting the dogs out to do their business. It was almost too easy. She stalked around a bit longer as an invisible cat, searching for Jake.

She found him asleep on the couch. She switched back into a person and stood in the doorway to the living room, watching the door and looking over her next victim. She clothed herself with magic as she watched him for a moment more. Mind reeling, her personal kill count was a quarter what Joey’s was, though she was responsible for the death of many others, indirectly. She looked over Jake with sad eyes, a large part of her truly didn’t want to kill him, but she knew she needed too. She couldn’t chance Zihanna coming back, even if the boy didn’t switch allegiances, if there was even a chance she could get her power back, Hanna needed to expunge it.

She inhaled deeply and let out a sigh as she walked over, weaponless. As she often was, using her magic as strength instead. She whispered some words above Jake as she slowly put her hands to his throat, and as he began to wake she mounted him, tightening her grip.

The panic set in immediately, but it was too late. She had the edge and was slowly choking the air from his lungs. Unfortunately she underestimated the time it takes to kill someone in this fashion, even with unmatched strength. The door slammed a bit as it closed and she tightened her grip even more but whatever strength Jake had he’d been saving up, he managed to release a half howl half cry.

Before she knew it, Joey had tackled Hanna off Jake and into coffee table then onto the floor. He wrestled her some as Jake coughed, his throat sore and his chest gasping.

Joey had managed to pick her up and slam her into the wall “Get the fuck out of my home or I will kill you.” She clenched her jaw and narrowed her eyes then laughed, then put a hand on his chest and mouthed “boom” and he flew back, across the room and hit the opposing wall. Jake began scrambling off the couch and bolted for the front door, still coughing.

Hanna followed quickly and slammed the door just as he began to open it. “Why can’t I change…” he coughed, his panic palpable as she pinned him again and put her hands to his throat. He had tried to fight her off but she was much too strong. “How…are you…”

She eyed him and said in a whisper, “Magic is a powerful force…” and she gripped him tighter, starving him of air once again. As she choked him, her eyes caught sight of the bracelet Benji gave her, that she happened to still be wearing. She had charmed it initially, so that it changed sizes with her human and animal form, so she always had it. Her eyes softened and tears started to fill her eyes. Then began to spill down her cheeks in small rivers that turned to waterfalls. Her grip finally letting up.

Just as she did, she looked at Jake with wounded eyes and tear stained cheeks, shaking her head… “I’m…sorry…”

“Joey don’t!” Jake coughed. Joey had gotten up, grabbed his sword and was about to bring it down to decapitate Hanna. Despite his fatigue and the unimaginable pain throbbing in his chest, he maintained immaculate control of the weapon. The sword stopped just as it touched her skin.

He lifted it and pushed her away from Jake. Then he pointed the tip at her chest as he moved Jake to stand behind him. “I should kill you…” he seethed.

Jake put a hand on Joey’s shoulder, “Don’t…let her go, we’ll deal with this later. Hanna…” Jake coughed some more, his voice raspy and weak, his chest heaving tirelessly. “We can work this out together okay…just, go now. But we…we should all talk…civilly.”

“I don’t want her near you.”

“Joey stop…she can’t be an enemy, I know you understand that.”

“She wouldn’t be if she was dead.” Joey growled. Jake gripped his shoulder in a pleading fashion and Joey huffed, “Get out. If I see you near my place or if you try to hurt anyone I love, I won’t hesitate to follow through.”

“I’m sorry…” Hanna cried as she slipped out the front door.

As the door shut Joey placed the sword on the kitchen table and leaned into the edge of a chair slowly turning it so he could sit. He nearly collapsed into it and put his head on the table.

“Are you okay?” Jake spoke, his voice harsh in sound but tender in emotion.

“Yes, I just need a minute. I…I don’t know what she did…” he breathed with his head still resting. “I can only liken it to a thunderstorm in my chest.”

“What? Like…did she shock you?”

“Something like that…a shock and the force, like…like I was hit with a rock…” he took a few more minutes, and Jake sat in a chair next to him, and finally Joey lifted his head and looked at Jake. “Are you alright, my god, your neck…” he moved his chair closer and gently lifted Jake’s chin. It was red and already beginning to bruise. His jaw clenched and he was already reeling about if he made the right call letting her go.

As if reading his mind Jake spoke, “We did the right thing Joe, really we did. She’s under so much pressure right now and she’s probably thinking she had to do this to keep her son safe, but I know if we work together we can find another way.”

“I hope you’re right…” is all Joey managed to say. “I think…I need to lie down, don’t leave the apartment by yourself. Maybe…maybe call Dom, or Tim… or both that’s fine, just please stay inside if you can…” his energy was depleting fast. He looked for his dogs, Riggs slowly slinking into the kitchen from the bedroom. Joey stood and went over to him, comforting him and then spotting Tom shivering half under the bed. He scooped up the puppy and collapsed into the bed and fell asleep.

[mnm-inc-miles]

1/8/2024

Tim was anxious about this responsibility he was tasked with, but it was important to him, and he spent some time trying to focus but couldn’t seem to quiet his mind. His anxiety was racing, worse than normal, and he was trying to meditate off and on. Finding ways or excuses to distract himself.

Check in with Cudi, walk the dog, see who won AGT, wonder if Asa is winning his campaign, but any time he reached out it was brief and he was back to focusing on himself and his connection to his brother. Come 9pm he had finally calmed down and had spent enough time focusing his brain that it was quieter, and meditating was starting to work.

Shifting into wolf form and closing his eyes, Tim felt himself drifting. At some point during meditation he’d fallen asleep. And a dream began. It narrowed in on some woods. A very large man towing a myriad of weapons on his back, and holding a large chandelier like it was a torch. He was walking away from Tim’s point of view. And the perspective Tim had felt like he was being yanked along behind him. It was cold, snow covered the ground, and Tim could feel pain growing throughout his body.

Everything went black. Then when the images came back, he was in a room, dark damp and cold, and the most terrifying face loomed over him. The man with the weapons struck him hard, everything went black.

Tim shot awake. Mount Whitney. He didn’t entirely know how he knew, but that was where Jake was, and he looked at the clock. 4am. He needed to hurry. He shifted back to human and texted Joey, who didn’t answer immediately. He texted Newt, who responded quickly and appeared in his room only a few minutes later.

“I still can’t get ahold of Joey…” Tim chewed his cheek anxiously.

“I’ve already stopped by his place. He will meet us at the base of the mountain.”

They left together and when they arrived in the mountains of California, Joey was waiting, looking a bit tired but determined.

“Are you okay?” Tim asked him, concerned.

“Yes, what information do you have?” He was nursing a very mild hangover but he’d fought through worse, and on less sleep.

“I uh…I’m not sure, I can just sense it…” he inhaled deeply, closed his eyes and focused on changing back into a wolf, and he shifted quickly. “This way,” he barked as he ran up the hill and into the woods of the mountains. Newt and Joey followed, wand and sword at the ready respectively.

They approached the area where the cabin was and Tim slowed down, “We’re close…but there was a guard…I just, I don’t see him.”

“Was it a vampire or someone else?” He looked around and didn’t even see a cabin. “Are you sure this is right Tim?”

“Yes, it feels right but I don’t…see anything…and I’m honestly not sure…I don’t think he was a vampire, but he was deformed and huge and nothing but muscle…”

“Revelio” Newt spoke and suddenly the cabin materialized. Joey looked around and saw tracks leading to and from the cabin, both old and fresh. “I’ll stand guard, you and Newt go in and get him…” and Joey put his hand on his sword and gave a nod.

Newt hurried inside with Tim following. It was a very small cabin, basically a large room. There on the ground, skin and bone, bloodied and dirty, was the wolf, his brother. “Oh…no, is he…is he alive?” The room smelled like death.

Kneeling beside the wolf, Newt touched his chest and nodded, “He’s alive, but barely.” He pulled out the wand and broke the chains and lifted the dog into his suitcase and then came back out and followed Tim back outside.

“This feels too easy…” Tim spoke nervously.

“Yeah…”Joey narrowed his eyes. “But there’s no one here, they must not be expecting us to find this place…we should hurry.”

“Joey…he’s in bad shape.” Newt spoke. “I’m going in to help him, take my suitcase. We can go back to your place if you’d like.” And Joey nodded and Newt disappeared back inside the case as Joey and Tim made their way back down the mountain.

[mnm-inc-miles]

Joey 1/2/2023

Joey waits patiently at the bar, sipping a drink, until Moira calls him into her domain. She had requested the visit; had a favor to ask. When a hand touches his shoulder, Joey stands and quietly follows to her room.

She greets him just inside with a hug and a kiss on the cheek, “Joey, hello, how was your holiday season?”

He paces anxiously for a moment until she motions to sit, insisting. “It was good, spent it with loved ones, did some performing. How about you?”

“Well you know,” she states, pushing past the subject. Holidays were not her favorite time of year, she only brought it up to be polite. But Joey knew this so he didn’t press further. “So I have a favor, as you know. And I need my best involved.”

“I’ve always been available to help you, what’s the mission?”

“Well Joey, it’s not recon this time. You’ll be part of a team too.”

“Moira.”

“Don’t start,” she rolls her eyes, standing from her chair and moving closer to the couch were Joey sits. “Now, I have always catered to your preferences, because I knew the mission you had been involved with was a big one, and took your full focus, but there hasn’t even been crickets on that front. So it’s time to join the pack.”

“Moira…”

“It’s a small team, four of you.”

“Moira I can’t. I can’t do a battle mission, I can offer you recon service and intel gathering when I can, but…I’m not fighting anymore.”

“Aren’t you though?” Moira states, adding “and what do you call dom’s mission.”

“That’s the last one.”

She laughs, “there’s always one more.”

“Not for me, I want out. I can offer you non combat help, that’s it.” He swallows hard, knowing it will be a tough pill to swallow for her.

“Joesph, you know if you leave you can’t come back. You know how this works, it’s give and take.”

Joey would narrow his eyes, “I am offering you service, it’s limited but you have plenty of people who only perform certain tasks.” She was silent, watching him, as if she had nothing else to say. “If I leave then, am I just cut off or have I made an enemy of you?”

“You could never be an enemy, Joey. You know that…” and she stands up, walking away from him.

“But?”

“I’m not happy. I don’t ask you for much, and I’ve provided you with anything you’ve ever needed. But leave then, if that is your wish. But don’t ask me for anything again.”

Joey stands and walks closer, his mood growing more frustrated. “You know I appreciate the help, but I did this for both of us, and you know it. I will do this mission, this time, and I ask that it’s the last combat mission you request of me.”

She spins around and smiles, “I’m glad you’ve had a change of heart.”

“Just know, Moira, that this is beginning to feel more like a prison than a safe haven. Your rules have gotten too tight, it’s suffocating and you’ll lose people that way. I know you have to see that. You have a good thing here, what you do has such a great purpose and I’m watching as you slowly throw it away.”

Moira approaches him swiftly and grabs his jaw, “Those are some very grand accusations.”

“This can’t be my life.” Joey says angrily. “I’ve shown you respect as long as I’ve known you, I expect the same in return. I’m a musician not an assassin.“

“Oh sweet Joey, my poet,” she slaps him. “Wake up. In this world you are what you’re good at.”

Fuming, he tries to calm himself, avoiding her gaze a moment as he growls, heat flushing to his cheek, “I’m not doing it anymore Moira,” as he returns her gaze he says, “I’m done.” Then turns to leave. At the door he adds, “I’m sorry you don’t like it but this was never meant to be my entire life. It’s not what I want, and it’s never what Fiona wanted.”

That last statement struck a cord and Moira enters his mind, freezing him at the door. “Let me go, Moira.”

“You cannot walk out on me, we haven’t had closure.”

“We can talk later when you’ve had time to think about what I’ve said, now let me go.” Turn around. He does. Come closer. He fights it. “Moira, get out of my head.” He very slowly drags his feet closer as she refuses to listen. He closes his eyes and pictures his worst memory. The night he lost Fiona. He’s always been fortunate that this is a memory they share.

She immediately drops control and in a slightly broken voice, says, “That was cruel.”

“Fire with fire,” he says softly. He looks at her now, inhaling deeply, exhaling. “I’m sorry, Moira. I know your life is tragic, but I can’t keep living it with you. I have a good thing going now, I can move on.”

“Lucky you.” She seethes, though the anger quickly fades to sadness and Joey’s guilt kicks in. He walks over to her and puts a hand on her hand as she sits in her chair. He kneels beside her and lets his head fall in her lap for a moment and she holds him. “You’re the closest thing to her I have left…”

“Then don’t push me away, Moira. I love you, you are family as far as I’m concerned, and if we can be on the same page…there’s no reason we can’t see each other indefinitely. I will do this last favor for you, in good faith. But please…” and he’d lift his head and look at her, eyes watering in desperation. “I can’t do this anymore, please understand that.”

“No, no…Joey, it’s…” she sighs. “It’s fine. I, I will respect your wish. I’m sure I can find someone else, I…” she stops mid sentence and sighs again. “You should go. Let me be alone.”

“Moira…”

“Joey, enough. It seems I’ve felt different about our future together, and that I’ve been wrong in my presumptions, and so be it. I’m too old to argue, honestly, I… I am just too tired anymore.”

“Let me help…”

“You can’t. Please just leave now. Good luck with your future Joseph. It is indeed a bright one. Fiona was right to place her love in you. Now, goodnight.”

Feeling uneasy but knowing he’s got nothing else to offer, Joey slowly stands, bows slightly, and leaves.

[mnm-inc-miles]

Joey would shake his head, “It seems to be falling apart, but it’s not. It’s just changing. It will only fall apart if you let it. Again, I know it’s easier said than done to follow that perspective. I’m a romantic so…I put a lot of stock in my relationships, but at the end of the day…people can come and go from our lives, and they leave their mark, and you learn from them. And you keep going.” He figured the question about his brother and Zendaya would come up at a later time, it wasn’t important now, so he let it go. He could now, with certainty say, that Dom was going to be a big part of his life moving forward.

 He’d pause a moment and stand up, “I could talk to you forever man, this is some good stuff. But you really, really should get some rest. And I just had a huge party the other night that took the energy right out of me, an 18th century party my partner and his best friend hosted, so…I’m feeling a little drained. But Dom…don’t stop holding out for hope. Don’t stop thinking about Angus and how he’s touched your life. Loss can be painful, but it can also be a source of strength. It’s that old folk story, of the two wolves that lives inside each of us…one is evil and one is good, and the one that wins is the one you feed.”

DOMINIC x JOEY - 08/2023

Joey would laugh pretty hard at the continued star wars pun and say “never never, I’d never let you turn,” and he’d just laugh a bit then pause as Dom breathes, and he’d just watch him think. He’d smirk when Dom mouths the title of his second studio album, thinking of Fiona and knowing she pushed him to get his messages out in the world. She was alive, through her presence in his life, almost like a legacy, and that lifted his heart.

He’d smirk and chuckle at a handful of Dom’s comments. They’re both naïve and worldly at the same time, which is a difficult concept to achieve, but somehow he did it. Then the hard part. The answer to his question of loss. Who this person was came flooding into the forefront of his brain, smacking him like a brick, literally, as a pain began to grow in his sinuses. He’d furrow his brow and just continue to listen, and nod, “Yeah…you did say that earlier, I remember. Fuck.” He’d lean back again and just stare ahead of him, completely unsure as to how he should even proceed with this information. Cautiously, for sure, but this kid was here not, that much was obvious.

“The stars that shine the brightest often burn out quickest. It’s cliché but it’s true, and I almost loath the saying, but…it’s kind of true, from what I’ve experienced. Angus, he uh…he was the dealer in Euphoria right? For um, for the lead…Rue? I’m sorry I love the show but I’m not always great with names. Rue and Jules though, are the girls right? I’m not sure I know your character, I’m not even finished the first season, but I’m currently watching it here and there with my partner. And my brother’s obsessed with it too. He’s a friend of Zendayas.”

[mnm-inc-miles]

DOMINIC x JOEY - 08/2023

Joey would laugh pretty hard at the continued star wars pun and say “never never, I’d never let you turn,” and he’d just laugh a bit then pause as Dom breathes, and he’d just watch him think. He’d smirk when Dom mouths the title of his second studio album, thinking of Fiona and knowing she pushed him to get his messages out in the world. She was alive, through her presence in his life, almost like a legacy, and that lifted his heart.

He’d smirk and chuckle at a handful of Dom’s comments. They’re both naïve and worldly at the same time, which is a difficult concept to achieve, but somehow he did it. Then the hard part. The answer to his question of loss. Who this person was came flooding into the forefront of his brain, smacking him like a brick, literally, as a pain began to grow in his sinuses. He’d furrow his brow and just continue to listen, and nod, “Yeah…you did say that earlier, I remember. Fuck.” He’d lean back again and just stare ahead of him, completely unsure as to how he should even proceed with this information. Cautiously, for sure, but this kid was here not, that much was obvious.

“The stars that shine the brightest often burn out quickest. It’s cliché but it’s true, and I almost loath the saying, but…it’s kind of true, from what I’ve experienced. Angus, he uh…he was the dealer in Euphoria right? For um, for the lead…Rue? I’m sorry I love the show but I’m not always great with names. Rue and Jules though, are the girls right? I’m not sure I know your character, I’m not even finished the first season, but I’m currently watching it here and there with my partner. And my brother’s obsessed with it too. He’s a friend of Zendayas.”

[mnm-inc-miles]

Joey would take into consideration the words and worries that Dom has and ruminate in his own mind what they might mean, where they might stem from, and how to overcome them. “I have always been an over thinker, in my life, even since childhood. I worried a lot, about little things and big things, and my mom sort of helped me learn how to cope with that. She’s the real jedi.”

 He’d do as he does, inhale, exhale, thinking. “First off, thanks for the kind words. Really. I’m sure it looks easy from where you’re sitting but it took years to get here. And…I’m still learning, and growing. I take time to meditate my own thoughts but I also take a lot of time to think about others, especially around covid leading up to now. I had this idea of Sonder, where every person is living a life that is complicated and intricate and unique to their own existence. Just because I don’t know them or the details, doesn’t mean it’s not happening. That gives me perspective. Which…I find is what helps me maintain that ‘jedi meditation shit’ as you call it.” Joey would laugh, “Perspective though, seriously, that’s what does it for me. Anyway that I can gain perspective, I feel gives me new knowledge.”

 He'd stretch some, inhaling as he does, then kick his feet up. “Now about the finite, and the afterlife again…I definitely believe there are multiple universes in the world and I think that lends to your idea, of thinking that people don’t always just die. Maybe in this life, or universe, but in another, there’s a part of them still going. I do believe that, 100% without a doubt, to be true. I kind of get the feeling you may have lost someone recently…maybe that’s why you’re bringing all this up, it’s at the forefront of your mind?” He thought about Dom’s mention of his little sister, to be with her after he dies, which made him think maybe he had lost a sister, but…something told him that maybe wasn’t quite what he meant to imply. Nonetheless he waited for Dom to speak, knowing the big picture would become clear in its own time.

Testing himself as Joey speaks, Dom would curl his abdomen a bit in an effort to stand and be met with a stinging sensation that almost makes him nauseous. His expression would droop in defeat as he's overestimated himself, despite his superior healing abilities, the blade had truly been plunged deep. He grinds his teeth as he briefly ruminates over the injury, knowing his next target, flashes of what he'll do to him intrusively invading his thoughts until the other man's words summon him back to reality.  And he'd close his eyes to quiet his mind and listen, absorbing Joey's words and feelings, soaking in the stoic calmness he effortlessly radiates and using it as a balm on his own soul.

"Hey dude, you did ask me if I had questions! Damn... talk about deep. It's like you somehow take the shit people are normally panicking about and bend it so it works for you, so you can navigate around what would otherwise be a block. That's like some next level Jedi meditation shit... you got it figured out even when you don't. It's pretty incredible dude, I like listening to how your mind works stuff out, it helps my own shut up and uncomplicate shit."

And then he'd let out a melancholy sigh and go, "But part of me....maybe a naive part...doesn't want things to be finite. I mean maybe I don't care about me but there's some people in this world who... I just want to picture being just like they are, but somewhere else, happier... I don't know, I get souls are eternal but like... part of me wants to after I die be with my little sister again, as she is. It won't matter when I die because what happens happens but now that I'm seeing death up close, I'm worried about what it really means..."

[mnm-inc-miles]

Joey would smirk at the cop comment, then chuckle. “Tripped a cop, yeah...I don’t think you’ll be damned for that.” He’d take a pause and look at Dom, seriously. “I’ve got nothing better to do right now, but you’re free to go whenever you please.” He’d get up and turn the fire off, feeling a bit toasty in the room, and he’d open a window to let him some cool air. “I do insist you maybe take the night, if not on the couch, then you can have my bed, but you ought to rest, not travel. You can check on whatever you need tomorrow, I’m sure.”

He’d then take his seat back on the couch beside Dom, watching him try to get comfortable. “As for that last thought, damn. That’s pretty deep kid, I mean, Dom, we’re pretty close in age I probably shouldn’t call you kid, makes me older than I am.” He’d laugh and shake his head. “That is a profound question, that…isn’t so simple to answer either. Do I believe in an afterlife, certainly. Do I think I understand what it is, or how it works, not at all. But…I think it’s complicated, I think because life is a puzzle and people aren’t black and white, that however the afterlife works…is possibly the same? I believe…that the only thing I know for certain is I am only living this one life. My soul might have other lives, but…my mind is finite and my attachment to this world…to this life I’m living, is only here and now. I’m but a fragment in the vast and ever-growing energy of the universe. So…I try not to focus on what happens in the afterlife, and just try my best to live the best life I can while I’m alive. I do as much good as I can, I make mistakes, I’ve sort of even written music about this perspective, broadly speaking maybe…I don’t know, that was a big question…but maybe I’ve answered it a little bit?” Joey would look over at Dom and offer a smile, half exhaling half laughing as he shrugs.

DOMINIC x JOEY - 08/2023

Joey would be nodding, watching him while listening. Shifting slightly to face ahead once more. “First of all, I don’t cut people out of my life, once I let you in, it’s up to you if you want to stay. I’m glad your mom is clean right now, I’m sure that helps.” He’d pause and lean into the couch and let his head rest on the back, looking at the ceiling. He’d exhale and chuckle softly, “Not how I expected my day to end up, but…it feels right.”

He’d inhale, close his eyes a moment, deep in thought, then exhale and open them, lifting his head and facing Dom again. “You are more than welcome to stay the night, and you can text me anytime, I’ll get you my number before you leave, and if I’m home you can come by, we can always talk.” He’d look the other up and down and then smirk slightly, “If you want, I mean…I don’t know how long you’ve been tracking vampires, but…I bet we have knowledge we can share, training tips too, I’ve been…” he’d pause a moment and say, “Well fuck, time is…um, difficult to explain, but…I’ve been doing this a while. Long while, most of my life really, so I’ve learned some things.”

Shifting slightly to face Dom once more he’d say, “I feel like it’s been a bit of a whirlwind, we’ve had a lot of things happen and stuff spoken of, but is there…um, is there anything you want to ask me?” He’d laugh lightly, “You’ve caught me in a rare mood, but I think…maybe my energy is shifting, as my life and it’s priorities have…so I’m just rolling with it.”

[mnm-inc-miles]

DOMINIC x JOEY - 08/2023

Joey would be nodding, watching him while listening. Shifting slightly to face ahead once more. “First of all, I don’t cut people out of my life, once I let you in, it’s up to you if you want to stay. I’m glad your mom is clean right now, I’m sure that helps.” He’d pause and lean into the couch and let his head rest on the back, looking at the ceiling. He’d exhale and chuckle softly, “Not how I expected my day to end up, but…it feels right.”

He’d inhale, close his eyes a moment, deep in thought, then exhale and open them, lifting his head and facing Dom again. “You are more than welcome to stay the night, and you can text me anytime, I’ll get you my number before you leave, and if I’m home you can come by, we can always talk.” He’d look the other up and down and then smirk slightly, “If you want, I mean…I don’t know how long you’ve been tracking vampires, but…I bet we have knowledge we can share, training tips too, I’ve been…” he’d pause a moment and say, “Well fuck, time is…um, difficult to explain, but…I’ve been doing this a while. Long while, most of my life really, so I’ve learned some things.”

Shifting slightly to face Dom once more he’d say, “I feel like it’s been a bit of a whirlwind, we’ve had a lot of things happen and stuff spoken of, but is there…um, is there anything you want to ask me?” He’d laugh lightly, “You’ve caught me in a rare mood, but I think…maybe my energy is shifting, as my life and it’s priorities have…so I’m just rolling with it.”

[mnm-inc-miles]

“Alright,” Joey would nod, thinking. “We don’t have to go into this right now if you don’t want but…I want to Um…be here for you, I want to be like a sponsor but not really since I’m not in NA or anything, but I want to be someone you can go to.”

He’d pause. Recalling his relationship with a past lover and wishing he could have done more to help her. She was receptive to a point, then withdrew from him. And disappeared with a classic Irish goodbye. Only to show up years later and apologize, having been sober a few months and in the program. But they fell out of touch, lost their connection.

“I’m sure Florida is nice…and familiar so that’s important, you mentioned your mother and brothers use, does your sister? Is everyone sober at the moment?” He pause and add “again if you don’t want to touch upon any of this now. Let me know…”

[mnm-inc-miles]

DOMINIC x JOEY - 08/2023

Joey would chuckle a bit at the aging statement. Time has never been linear for him, like he’s always been a part of this warped universe where time has different rules.

He let his eyes fall upon Dom as he continues to speak, to explain himself. Nodding and taking in the information. Adding it to his mind and sorting through it to figure out a way to help the young man before him.

“My brother is fine, yes. Thanks.” And he’d inhale deeply, furrow his brows and exhale. Thinking. “I didn’t mean to imply that your calling things holes was the sole reason for your addiction. I know it’s complicated. I loved an addict once.” He’d shake his head, “I hate saying it like that, like that’s all she was. She was so much more than that…” he’d sigh. “I digress. It’s a long road, changing your perspective. I’m lucky because I had a wonderful supportive positive mother. My dad was alright too, just a bit absent but supportive all the same.”

He’d be hesitant at first but as he noticed Dom move closer he’d take that as a sign and put a hand on Dom’s leg. “Do not write yourself off. Listen…I um, I don’t normally do this but my gut…intuition, instinct whatever you want to call it. I want to keep talking to you. But first…where um, where are you staying? Indefinitely I mean. Do you have an apartment, do you live at home with your family? If…you don’t mind me asking.”

[mnm-inc-miles]

DOMINIC x JOEY - 08/2023

Joey would look over at Dom after he speaks and shrug, “I’m not sure I would call them holes. I’m glad I don’t look at it that way, actually. Because I feel like focusing on that would only make it grow into something that could swallow my soul.”

He’d shift in his seat, pulling a leg up on the couch so he could face Dom a bit more. “I went back to Ireland because of Covid and because there was literally 2 other people left in the clan and I hadn’t heard activity from them in months. Recently I had a team help me, I believe we wiped them out, but there’s always whispers in the grapevine so…I suppose it might never truly be over.”

Shrugging he’d reach l down and scratch his ankle, then take his shoes off to get more comfortable. “Do you call your trauma and loss holes? Because…if you do maybe that’s why you struggle with addiction. I’m not trying to um, like…um, parent you or whatever. You’ve got to be what, 22 or something? You’ve got your entire life ahead of you still. You’re young enough still that you can change your mindset and coping mechanisms, and be more at peace. My mother…” he’d pause and sadness would sweep him for a moment but then he’d have a huge smile on his face. “She was the most optimistic person. She always had hope for the future. She said…the day you stop believing that there can be change, that things can get better, is the day you become lost. Don’t ever let yourself become lost, Joe, always have hope.”

[mnm-inc-miles]

Joey would chuckle a bit when Dom does but eye him carefully to make sure his wound isn’t bleeding through the bandage. They were recently fashioned for him by Remus, magic band aids that act almost like butterfly stitches but larger. Not a replacement for seeing a doctor and possibly needing stitches, but definitely a savings grace in a pinch. He didn’t tell Dominic yet, but he’d have to reach out to Adam or Simon and have them come stitch the wound. Although he’s capable of doing it himself, he tries to avoid deep stabs and only stitches minor cuts on extremities. He’s not a doctor, just has lots of experience being hacked up and not wanting to go to hospital.

 Inhaling deeply, he’d pause, considering the other’s request. He’d exhale and give a slight nod. He’s always been alone in this endeavor until this place, and it was difficult at first to accept help but he knew he needed it. He never wanted to be responsible for other’s involvements but at the same time if they were willing to help, willing to protect, why would he fight them on it when he so desperately needed their aid. That thought is what made him bend.

 This kid was different. There was no real reason for him to be open with Dom but at the same time the cat was out of the bag. He found himself thinking about lion king, and what if maybe he was on our side, and smirked briefly. He let out another sigh and let his gaze meet Dom’s. It would be soft, filled with worry but also compassion, no sign of aggression or anger anywhere.

 “Yeah, I mean…” he’d inhale and exhale deeply and find his gaze shift from Dom to his dog. He found a part of his heart wanting to just explode with information, he’d kept so much bottled in and was beginning to unravel now that he was finally seeing a light at the end of his long tunnel of revenge. His breath would quicken slightly and he’d close his eyes and shake his head a brief moment. “I hunted for a long time, the clan that had renamed themselves “Nouvelle Lumiere” which is French for new light. They originated in France, most of them were there for a very long time. They were hunting my brother, you see…he possesses something in his blood like magic, drinking his blood allows you to walk I believe 12 hours in daylight without hiding your face. So they were planning to drink his blood on reserve and hold him prisoner I’m assuming indefinitely.”

 He'd shake his head and let out a breathe of air, “They killed my mother and a few of my siblings, but I ran with my brother and escaped. I found him a home, as luck would have it without trying, and had to never tell him the truth, but watch him from afar. They finally got word he was in NY and started to shift their base, so I followed. Wiping them out bit by bit on my own. Then they went silent during covid. The entire world did really, and I went back home, to Ireland…” He’d be kicking himself for staying in during the pandemic knowing it’s what caused the clan to grow full force once more, but tried to reason that he did not really have a choice. But once one dark thought crept in more began to slip through the cracks. His entire history catching up to him. This vendetta would have never happened if he’d just remained a werewolf…a thought that often overwhelms him with guilt. He’d let his head fall in his hand and just sigh. Deciding to let the other absorb the info he’s already shared.

Dom would lift his head when Joey speaks and turn on his side just a bit to face him, studying the kindred spirit, though he seems to have more of his shit together or his façade was absolutely top notch.  He can’t imagine the other is too much older than him but the way he carries himself seems like he’s been alive for a thousand years, even his grief and regret is more graceful, and Dom can feel a pang of self-doubt as he  analyzes the way he’s handled the cards he’s been dealt.  He’d hum in melancholy thought before his gaze shifts to his own hands, that he has started to wring nervously but he clasps them together hard to make them stop.

“Hey when you find out about this secret…encoding or whatever…let me know,” he chuckles, bracing for pain but the sensation is more subdued than the last time he laughed. 

When Joey mentions his crusade, he perks up a bit, looking at him expectedly though part of him doesn’t expect much. He knows how guarded the other was and truth be told, these were things he hasn’t told many people either but on that same token, it was more for lack of finding anyone who’d really understand.

“Do you think you’re going to tell me anything about that? I mean… I can tell that it’s not your favorite thing to talk about… but… I,” he pauses, stealing another glance, “I don’t know, I guess I can’t help but ask...I feel like I lean heavy on people a lot, when they give an inch I want a mile…”

[mnm-inc-miles]

Joey would look at him seriously. Rocked by their experiences, and just how similar they were. He’d give the kid some time to piece together thoughts and make sure he’s finished before making a comment. He amused himself with a thought, that God only has so many plans and they’re from the same cookie cutter. He’d smirk a bit at it then half smile at Dom. His body language would seem so calm and collected and certain, even though his thoughts and words are a bit scattered. “That truly is a lot to unravel, this may um, it may sound strange but um, I think we share a secret um, what do they call it, encoding? Like um…” he’d snap his fingers and give up with an “ahh, nevermind, I’m sorry that is what happened to you…but, I do understand, I’ve recently put to rest, at least I thought I did, my own crusade. But you’re right, they’re always growing.”

Dom’s brows would rase in shock and stay that way as Dermot responds, his tired eyes drooping to look at the hand extended before him, realizing that nothing bad has ever happened when he’s taken this chance but only cautiously placing his hand in the other’s this time.

“For real, man? I mean…you didn’t even wanna tell me your name like an hour ago… I must really look like ball sack for you to say something like that. I don’t know whether to be mad or…,” and he’d giggle in defeat and help himself up using Dermot as leverage, leaning his frame into him and then freezing when Riggs comes meandering into the kitchen.

“Whoa… hey, big boy. You weren’t lying. I didn’t even see him when we came in. This motherfucker was hiding in plain sight…that’s scary,” he’d titter, leaning more heavily into Dermot as his body starts to protest standing.

[mnm-inc-miles]

Joey would help him up and chuckle at Riggs, shoeing him gently to go back and lie down. He’d practically carry Dom to the couch and say “You can call me Joey if you want, but Dermot’s also fine. I’m sorry I was hesitant, it’s in my nature when it comes to my um, what’d you call it, moonlighting?” He’d laugh a bit and gently place Dom onto the couch. Riggs would sit by the “fireplace” and Joey would go to light it. Humming a bit as he lights the flame. “I won’t leave it on long, it’ll get to warm with it being summer and all, dead of august too,” he’d state a bit awkwardly. Get him to talk about music, history, or love, and he’d sound like a poet, otherwise, he feels like a fool and knows he quite often sounds like one.

He'd take a seat next to Dom and try to quiet his mind. “Why are you hunting the Profane Pack?”

Dom’s brows would rase in shock and stay that way as Dermot responds, his tired eyes drooping to look at the hand extended before him, realizing that nothing bad has ever happened when he’s taken this chance but only cautiously placing his hand in the other’s this time.

“For real, man? I mean…you didn’t even wanna tell me your name like an hour ago… I must really look like ball sack for you to say something like that. I don’t know whether to be mad or…,” and he’d giggle in defeat and help himself up using Dermot as leverage, leaning his frame into him and then freezing when Riggs comes meandering into the kitchen.

“Whoa… hey, big boy. You weren’t lying. I didn’t even see him when we came in. This motherfucker was hiding in plain sight…that’s scary,” he’d titter, leaning more heavily into Dermot as his body starts to protest standing.

[mnm-inc-miles]

Joey wouldn’t have much of a response, just a look of serious contemplation and curiosity. His brain soaking in all the clues and absorbing each word like it was solving a puzzle. He wouldn’t call himself Sherlock Holmes but he’s had a long road of experience reading people and situations, so he’s gotten pretty good at it. He’d narrow his eyes at some things and raise a brow at others.

 “You don’t have to go Dom, really.” Joey would look at him, slightly guarded but giving way because there’s something about Dom that is familiar to him, and almost soothing. “Want some help into the living room, might be more comfortable. You can spend the night, it’s really no trouble, you’ve not made it weird.” And he’d walk closer to Dom and extend a hand, just as big sleepy Riggs comes bounding in with a big bark but just plod and look up at Joey as if asking if it’s okay that he say hello.

“Shit…”

Dom’s expression would soften and he’d almost look a bit guilty as he takes in Dermot’s reaction.

“Listen… Truth is, I know more about you as an artist than I do as… I mean, fuck this is intense.  Look man, whatever you’ve done, I’m sure you had to do it. You have reasons I bet, just like me…”

And he’d take a breath, “I know that vampires and werewolves don’t have the best history and shit but like, I’m not even a full vampire.  I’m just some bastard child of a rape… I’m a pariah, I don’t really talk to other vampires.  Nothing against them but the only vampires I really know about are from the Profane Pack.  And if you killed any of them, I’d give you a fist bump, because what they do is fucked up!”

He’d suddenly lurch forward, grasping his abdomen, his outburst getting the best of him.  Dom would suck in a couple of breaths to try to temper the pain before looking back up at Dermot, his gaze searching desperately to connect, worried his initial response has done damage.

“You’re guilty… you’ve had to do shit that no one would ever understand… and it makes you feel like the loneliest person in the whole world…even your friends, your family, they look at you sadly because they can tell that you live someplace outside of all of them but there’s nothing they can do to bring you in.”

[mnm-inc-miles]

Joey would get up when Dom starts grabbing his wound. And he’d shift past him and grab some painkillers from above the bathroom sink. He’d pour him a glass of water while he listens to him talk further. He’d slow down, and absorb the words. Turning he’d place the glass and painkillers on the table and begin cleaning up the mess. He’d put the rag and bucket aside with anything else dirty, and pack up the tool box and put it back under the sink, humming a bit to fill the silence then he’d inhale and exhale deeply and turn to just look at Dom.

 “I am…” is all he would manage to say at that moment. Each word that Dom had spoke after ‘you’re guilty’ rang so true not only in his head and his heart, but right down to his soul. It was like this kid took his private feelings that he’s never spoken and say them out loud, like he was a page from a book.

 “Um, did you want to, um, do you need anything? How’s the pain?”

“Shit…”

Dom’s expression would soften and he’d almost look a bit guilty as he takes in Dermot’s reaction.

“Listen… Truth is, I know more about you as an artist than I do as… I mean, fuck this is intense.  Look man, whatever you’ve done, I’m sure you had to do it. You have reasons I bet, just like me…”

And he’d take a breath, “I know that vampires and werewolves don’t have the best history and shit but like, I’m not even a full vampire.  I’m just some bastard child of a rape… I’m a pariah, I don’t really talk to other vampires.  Nothing against them but the only vampires I really know about are from the Profane Pack.  And if you killed any of them, I’d give you a fist bump, because what they do is fucked up!”

He’d suddenly lurch forward, grasping his abdomen, his outburst getting the best of him.  Dom would suck in a couple of breaths to try to temper the pain before looking back up at Dermot, his gaze searching desperately to connect, worried his initial response has done damage.

“You’re guilty… you’ve had to do shit that no one would ever understand… and it makes you feel like the loneliest person in the whole world…even your friends, your family, they look at you sadly because they can tell that you live someplace outside of all of them but there’s nothing they can do to bring you in.”