#Dot Return To Duty Process

[affordableevaluations]

Understanding the Return to Duty Process: What Construction Sector Employees Need to Know

Navigating workplace rules can be tough, especially in the construction sector, where safety and following the law are paramount. The return to duty process helps employees who have violated drug and alcohol policies return to work safely, ensuring the workplace remains safe and reliable. This process isn’t just about following rules; it also focuses on helping employees recover and ensuring they are ready to perform their jobs. It protects both the individual’s health and the overall safety of everyone at work. By understanding these considerations, employees and employers can reduce anxiety and tackle any challenges more easily. Whether you're an employee directly involved or a supervisor overseeing compliance, this article will let you know about the essential considerations of the program.

Importance of SAP Assessment in Construction Roles

The SAP Return to Duty assessment is essential in construction jobs because of the safety risks. Here are some key roles-

Equipment Operators- If they're impaired, it can cause dangerous accidents.

Site Supervisors- They must stay alert to ensure safety rules are followed.

Laborers- The physical demands of their work require them to think clearly.

Safety Officers-They enforce safety rules and need to be fully alert.

This program helps ensure employees are ready to work, making the workplace safer. Now, understand each step of the process in detail and how it helps you in the long run.

Understanding The Initial Evaluation

The first step in the SAP drug program is an evaluation by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). This evaluation is critical because it assesses how serious an employee's substance abuse issues are and suggests a suitable treatment plan. This step is required to ensure that the employee deals with any problems related to substance use that could affect their ability to do their job safely and effectively.

Treatment and Education

After the SAP evaluates employees, they usually participate in a treatment or education program that meets their needs. This step aims to help them overcome their substance abuse issues and get ready to return safely to work. It’s a supportive approach that focuses on assisting employees to recover and ensure their well-being.

Follow-Up Testing

After completing the prescribed treatment or education program, employees are required to undergo follow-up testing. This makes sure that they are free of substances and ready to return to work. This part of the process is crucial for maintaining trust and safety within the workforce.

Continuous Support

Upon clearing the follow-up tests, employees may return to duty. However, the process does not end there. Depending on the SAP's recommendation, continuous support and additional follow-up tests may be required. This ongoing support is vital to prevent relapse and to reinforce the importance of a drug-free workplace.

Overview

Overall, the Return to Duty process is essential for helping construction workers safely return to their jobs after dealing with substance abuse problems. By following the evaluation, treatment, and ongoing support steps, employees and employers can help create a safer and healthier workplace. This collaboration also makes sure that everyone can work effectively while maintaining a strong focus on safety and well-being. If you are also in the construction sector and must prepare for the assessment, you can trust firms such as Affordable Evaluations. Their skilled staff is well aware of all the latest legal construction and labor rules and regulations, helping you quickly return to work.

[saprichardlangsner]

CDL DOT SAP Services in New Hampshire

Richard Langsner provides CDL DOT SAP services in New Hampshire, helping individuals meet the requirements for returning to work in safety-sensitive positions. Our qualified professionals conduct detailed evaluations and create personalized treatment plans that align with DOT regulations. We are dedicated to facilitating a smooth return to duty for CDL holders.

[lostintransist]

Sacrifice Doesn’t Hurt Less if They Don’t Love You

I can't decide if I want to write a whole fic for this chapter that spawned fully formed in my head but a mutual told me I could post it here.

Context. Soap and Ghost are lovers. They are both wanting to work through some issues and ask reader (female pronouns) to become their third for a time. Reader was unsure about joining a thruple, so they offer to pay her. Reader is a soldier and works with the 141.

CW: Mentions of onpage violence, can be read as suicidal ideation, self sacrifice.

Watching Soap and Ghost share a look of goodbyes with only their eyes cements for you the knowing, deeper than your bones, that no one will ever love you like they love each other. No room exists for you to shelter inside of their love. The pain is freeing somehow. Like every message pounded into your head about being unlovable was true.

The call of the void had abated for a time, since they paid you for your body. The urge to jump without pulling your shoot, to kink the hose to your oxygen lessened. It returned now. It didn’t call though, it sang. Staring into the horizon where blue became intangible you know that even if you listened to the haunting call if you go home today an ‘accident’ would befall you soon enough.

A hand on your thigh pulls you back from the discordant notes. You look from the hand to the face and see Price looking at you, concern in the crinkles around his eyes.

“You with us Everest?”

“Sorry Cap. Just mentally gearing up.”

He nodded, accepting the strange behavior and the explanation. He had used the shared channel everyone could listen in on over the headphones. Helicopters were not the place for private conversations.

Feeling Ghost’s eyes you turn. Looking at one eye and then the other you find nothing but the mask inside and out. The horizon draws your attention again as you listen to the symphony from within the void.

Price had organized groups of three before everyone piled into the helicopter. You had been assigned to Soap and Ghost. As the ghost ship came into sight you slipped into your operator role. Rearguard would be you duty. They trusted you to step backwards over the dodgy doorways and ensure no one attacked them from behind. A place of trust.

Everyone knew the mission. Locate and terminate the computer that would signal a series of bombs dotting major cities. It would be highly guarded and most likely booby trapped. Six teams split as they enter the darkness of the ship. It creaks with each bob of the waves and every step as if she is moments from careening into the depths to become a home for the deep dwelling fish.

Soap takes the lead, heading aft. None of you encounter resistance until six levels down. Movement from barely beyond your vision as you step down another set of ladders. You fire off two shots, a body falling into the light. Not one of yours. A hand on you shoulder is the warning you get before Ghost and Soap step over the body, heading deeper into the darkness.

Smaller stature is not often an advantage in your line of work. But tiny halls become your safe haven because you are not an overly large man.

Moving before your mind can process you are grappling for a knife that connected with your vest. A man had stepped from the deepest shadows and swung at you after the guys had stepped through the next porthole. He pulled back and swung downwards, aiming for your neck. Leaning back you caught only a nick from the blade along the crease where jaw meets neck. Because all wide swings must be returned by an equally wide swing you step in and jam both hands into his forearm.

The enemy fights his arm up, your upper body strength no match for his. Instead of fighting him in a losing battle you place one boot on the wall behind you, leveraging your best asset in the fight.

It impressed the men on the 141 that you could match or often beat them in dead lift squats. They did make fun of you for how low your numbers were on upper body though so it all came out in the wash.

The man brought his second arm up to support his knife wielding hand, the tip of the blade inching closer to your face. Forcing your second boot up the wall you press with all the power your foremothers blessed you with. The light bouncing around from your rifle shines off whites of the mans eyes as you shove the blade into his windpipe. He slumps as his life flees.

Gravity takes hold of you now that friction has abated and you slam to the ground with a grunt. Your knee took the bulk of the blow. Up on your feet you limp after your lovers. They must have circled back to find you since you find them only three rooms away.

“What happened Everest?” Ghost barks at you.

“Your job is to protect each other, my job is to protect you. I did my job.” You snap at him. He would want to take it from your hide if there was a later. On jobs he was your superior and sass could not be accepted.

Soap reached around him and lifted blood from your collar.

“We are here to protect you too Ev.”

The sweetest blade to your heart came from Soap’s tongue. Lies, because if they were here to protect you they would have noticed sooner that you were gone.

His finger hovers as you turn your head slightly away from his touch.

“We’ve got more ground to cover. Let’s go.” Voice harsh, you focus on limping forward.

Several more engagements occur, but the guys don’t leave your sight once. After clearing a particularly well guarded tiny red room you find what you have been looking for. Soap drops to a knee at the computer, typing away.

You and Ghost take up opposite positions staring down the hallways watching the darkness.

“Why didn’t you call for help?”

Ghost’s even tone hits like a lash across your back.

“Didn’t really have time with a blade at my throat.”

“Why are you mad at us?”

Even now the distinction between your place and theirs is hammered home in the phrasing of the question. Us denotes a you, an outsider.

“Now is not the time to unpack our relationship problems, Simon.”

“I’m getting no response from the computer and I don’t dare move it. This group really loves their bombs to trigger when people touch things.”

A head poking around the walls you to fire off a few rounds.

“I’m jammed, Soap replace me. I can work on disabling the computer.” You step into the small, red, red box trading places with Soap who steps into the hall, gun drawn on the shadows.

The instant his heel passes beyond the door frame you swing the heavy metal door shut, slamming the bar into place. Faraday cages are interesting things. They can be made by accident, or opportunity.

You couldn’t disable the computer you had fought so hard to get to the bowels of the ship, but you could stop it from sending a signal. As the bar clanged down, the bell tolling of your death, two irate faces appeared in the small window. Two men you love more than any reasonable person could understand stare at you, yell at you, beat at the door demanding entrance.

A beep from the computer tells you there is four minutes left until the signal is sent. Your lip trembles. Mouthing the words so carefully they can understand even beyond the slightly distorted glass you give your final goodbyes.

‘Love you.’

Blowing a shaky kiss to their horrified faces you slide the cover in place, sealing your tomb.

The void’s lilting tune is sweet in your ears. The pounding on the door stops. No sounds squawk from the radio in your ear, your play worked. They would be safe. They didn’t need you anyways, a matched pair didn’t need a third.

With nothing left to do but breathe in the last of your oxygen you decided to strip down to your uniform. Emptying every weapon on you of its rounds you place them gently on the floor a fair distance from the door. No need for them to get stepped on when someone can finally reach your body. Next goes the holsters and the heavy tactical gear.

It’s getting harder to breath now, your lungs heaving for a breath more. You sound like a baby you once saw with RSV. You place a hand to your ribs, finding the flesh pulling between the bones with each breath. Laying down seems the best option now. Your mind feels pulled, stretched. Taffy for brains. Stretching out you get comfortable. With your eyes fluttering you can almost imagine yourself on a cot somewhere in the tropics.

Distantly a beeping starts, the thirty second countdown. One long beep reaches through the fog of oxygen deprivation, you strain your ears. Even in the bowels of the ocean you would have heard something, shouting, if you had failed. When none occur you sigh and surrender to the darkness.

You might not have been important to them. They might have never loved you. But god dammit you were going to be remembered.

I also write COD over on AO3, same handle.

Masterlist

[just-my-latest-hyperfixation]

Hungry for you

Written for the @steddieholidaydrabbles, day 6

Prompt: Cooking together

Rated: M

CW: sexually explicit language

Tags: No UD AU; modern AU (if you squint); record shop owner!Eddie; restaurant owner!Steve; sexual tension; seriously, it's so thick you could cut it with a knife; top Steve; bottom Eddie

Notes: This is actually taken from a waaay longer AU that I've been rotating in my head for a while but haven't had time to expand on yet. So this was actually the perfect opportunity to get some of it out.

Eddie is in danger. 

Mortal peril, in fact. The cold-sweat-beading-on-skin, heart-in-your-throat, limbs-heavy-with-dread kind of danger. He's minutes away from sneaking to the bathroom and calling Gareth, ask him to bail him out under some pretense. 

Only he'd probably laugh at him, the fucker. 

Because, granted, being trapped in your hot neighbor's fancy kitchen with a glass of wine beside you and candles burning on the windowsill does not sound like a dangerous situation. 

But it is.

Oh God, it so is.

Eddie's an idiot. 

Should've known this was a Bad Idea (capital letters, TM) the second Steve said he wanted to invite him to dinner. 

"Sure," Eddie had stammered. (No, answered. He's a grown-ass adult with his own record store, he does not stammer over the sexy restaurant owner from across the street suggesting dinner.) "I'll swing by the restaurant tomorrow, or-" 

"Not at the restaurant," Steve's eyes had lit up with that fond glint, voice dropping into a low timbre. "My place. I wanna take my time with you." 

The alarm signs were all there. Wailing sirens, big fat neon letters spelling DANGER and ABORT and STOP. 

But Eddie's sense of self-preservation has always been a bit skewed. 

So here they are.

"I hope you like pasta?" Steve asked a few minutes ago. "We're making Tagliatelle al Limone with green asparagus." 

"Sounds great," Eddie said, when in all honesty, he hadn’t processed much beyond the word pasta. Too distracted by the way Steve’s shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing trim arms dotted in flour. "I make SpaghettiOs for dinner all the time." 

Steve makes his own pasta. He's currently rolling golden dough into an even layer to cut it into stripes. Eddie forces himself to quit staring at the flexing muscles in his arms and returns to his own task. Namely, peeling the asparagus. With a potato peeler. 

He's peeling asparagus with a fucking potato peeler like a ten-year-old who can't be trusted to not cut himself. Which is a frustratingly adequate assessment, in all honesty, so he didn't complain when Steve handed him the thing. Only now he's feeling like an idiot, standing at this hardwood counter between all these pans and pots and shiny appliances. Christ, his own kitchen is two cabinets with lopsided doors, an electric hotplate, and an ancient microwave pulling double-duty as an oven.

What the fuck is he even doing here?  

The answer to that, apparently, is fucking up his one task, because his hand slips and he almost manages to cut himself on the potato peeler. The stem - or stick or whatever the fuck it is you call them - of asparagus in his hand snaps and the tip flops to the countertop. Eddie swears, which causes Steve to turn and arch an eyebrow. 

"Everything okay?" 

"Oh, I'm peachy," Eddie brandishes the mutilated asparagus at him. "Unlike this little fella here, but y’know… collateral damage or whatever." 

Steve eyes the battlefield of fallen and mangled asparagus brethren on the counter and smiles. 

"That's alright," he shrugs. "We're cutting them into pieces anyhow." 

"Oh," Eddie just says, because one, if it's okay, why didn't Steve tell him before, and two, if it's okay, then why is Steve sauntering over with that ever-so-slight, blink-and-you-miss-it sway of his hips? 

Which Eddie definitely isn't doing. Blink, that is. He thinks he may have lost the ability to.

Before he can recover, Steve is already slotting into place behind him - an entirely unnecessary move in the spacious kitchen - sliding his arms around his waist and covering Eddie’s hands with his own. They're large and lean and graceful, those hands, all long, skilled fingers and soft, tan skin. Eddie has a very unhelpful mental image of those hands on his naked skin. Those fingers in his mouth, that honeyed voice ordering him to suckle, get them nice and slick for-

"You know," says Steve, right by his ear. His hands have started guiding Eddie’s, holding a stem of asparagus on the countertop, slicing the outer layer away with gentle but firm strokes. Eddie can feel his body heat through their clothes, feel Steve's breath leaving a hot trail on his skin. "Asparagus is rumored to have a very special effect on the human body…" 

"Wha-?" Eddie starts. His blood can't decide whether to rush to his face or his cock. It makes him all woozy - which will forever be the excuse he tells himself for what next comes out of his mouth. "Oh, I know! It makes your piss stink." 

Steve's hands freeze. Eddie considers killing himself with the potato peeler. 

And then Steve laughs. Rumbly noises from deep in his chest that send vibrations all through Eddie’s body. 

"No, silly," he says, voice dripping with that gentle condescension that should make Eddie livid but somehow only serves to kindle the coiling heat in his abdomen. "It's an aphrodisiac."

Eddie blinks.

"So it … makes you horny?" 

Steve hums. "Allegedly." 

Eddie gulps. Stares down at the potato peeler lying limply in his hand. Steve's hands have migrated to his hips at some point during their exchange, thumbs pushing up the hem of his shirt just the tiniest bit. 

"Crazy," he hears himself say. "Haven’t even eaten any yet." 

Steve presses his lips to his neck in a not-quite-kiss, just a coy smile touching skin. 

"So it's working?" 

Eddie wants those lips and hands on his skin, wants Steve's tongue and teeth all over his body, voice and touch and warmth seeping into him until he forgets how to think, forgets his own name, until all he knows is Steve and this burning, all-consuming want, want, want-

Steve laughs, pats his ass lightly. Eddie yelps as if slapped. 

"All in due time, baby. Can't have dessert before dinner." Steve winks. "Better continue with that asparagus." 

Eddie is not going to survive.

Part 2

All of my holiday drabbles

[nuttytani]

Making mehndi designs on them 

characters: dehya, nilou, kaveh, nahida, cyno, gn!reader

Dehya 

She’s really bad at sitting still, is the restless type and often messes up your designs by accidentally touching herself. So you have to scold her once in a while and keep an eye out 

Other than being told to sit still, she actually finds the process quite calming and relaxing 

The cold mehndi on her hands makes her shiver in a good way 

Plus, she gets to see you make all kinds of faces while doing her mehndi. And… she didn’t realise this before but you looked really pretty. The way the hot sun would cast a golden glow around you and the way your eyelashes would flutter with every blink–

Anyways

Being a pyro vision holder, her body runs warm so you bet her mehndi comes out really dark and gorgeous. 

As a thank you, she does your nails in a pretty burgundy to match the red on her hands 

Nilou 

She’s so excited that you’d be doing her mehndi for her!!! 

As a performer, she always has mehndi on her hands but it’s always just a simple big dot on the centre of her palms. 

That’s why getting some elaborate designs on her hands makes her feel so happy, plus the fact that you’re doing it makes it even better! 

You even purchased a blue tinted mehndi to make accents on her feet and her arms 

She’s in LOVE 

Her mehndi unfortunately doesn’t darken much, hydro vision holders just dont have that much body heat so the colour is almost orange-ish… except for the tinted blue designs! Which look stunning 

Kaveh 

Was shocked to hear that you wanted to put mehndi on his hands. Or feet. Wherever he preferred 

Sure, he used to play with his mother’s make up and mehndi before but ne never really got it done properly 

So this would be a first time for him 

He appreciates how you patiently handle him, there may have been times where he got a little cranky sitting still and his legs got numb but you didn’t give up

And he’s glad that you didn’t 

Because the end product was absolutely beautiful and he badgers Alhaitham by saying 

“y/n made these! They’re so talented… hey, look at me while I’m talking haitham!”

He wants to return you the favour by making mehndi designs on your hands too but he’s never held a mehndi cone before so it’s quite sloppy 

Still, you proudly show your hands off. “Look! Kaveh made this!! Pretty isn’t it?”

Nahida 

Actually, she’s the one who suggested you do her mehndi. All she wanted was a simple dot on her palms but you said no!

Nahida deserves much more intricate designs. Not that simple patterns are bad but you have never seen her indulge in her pleasures so this is the perfect time 

The-dream-mehndi-customer^™ 

You feel like you’re applying mehndi on a doll 

It’s so easy and probably the best person you’ve put mehndi on!!!!

Turns out extra gorgeous because she sat super still and the design was SAFE 

You got so excited that you even did her feet. Now Nahida has stunning red hands and feet.

Everyone compliments her 

Particularly her aranara friends 

Cyno 

He’s just bored while doing his duty when you come up to him like surprise surprise!!! 

You ask him if you can decorate his hands with mehndi designs

He immediately says no because he’s on duty 

Lo and behold, Nahida walks out of her office and she says 

“It’ll be fun! Get some break, work is done for the day anyways”

So now he guesses he’s stuck with you on the steps of his home with you hunched over his hands making pretty squiggles with mehndi 

You mess up his designs tho because Cyno could NOT shut up not stop making his stupid jokes which made you laugh at the stupidity of them 

Voila, one big mistake. You accidentally smudged THE ENTIRE DESIGN OFF HIS HAND AHHHHHH

Now you are upset and crying over your hard work being wiped away 

Meanwhile Cyno calms you down and tells you to just do his feet instead 

some mehdni references for yall

(a/n: if anyone is interested in me making a taglist, please let me know!)

[luv-kakashi]

One of us is dead

chapter fourteen - the byakuya

chapter thirteen | chapter fifteen

The room fell quiet as the last of the staff exited, the sound of Kakashi's soft steps filling the air as he walked in.

"Lord Hokage," Kakashi began as he knelt before The Hokage, "My mission in the Village Hidden by The Grass has provided substantial evidence regarding Kunoichi Thirteen."

"Does this evidence link Kunoichi Thirteen to Y/N Uzumaki, Kakashi?" The Hokage asked as his eyes narrowed, focusing on Kakashi intensely.

Kakashi raised his head and stood up slowly, to report the details of his latest mission. "Unfortunately, I couldn't gather any concrete evidence proving Y/N Uzumaki is Kunoichi Thirteen. However," he added before The Hokage could respond, "I managed to gather intel from the two shinobi who ambushed Team Two,"

The Hokage's brows furrowed, his gaze sharpening. "Go on."

"The kunoichi is named Fayelle, while the taller male is named Cash. Their mission was to capture Kunoichi Thirteen and return her to an organisation named The Byakuya."

The Hokage silently listened to Kakashi's report as he sat back, his expression unreadable. He drummed his fingers on the desk, eyes fixed on Kakashi, but his thoughts raced in his mind.

"The Byakuya... word of The Byakuya has been raised in the Kage Summit before," The Hokage sighed, "They were formed under the commission of the Mizukage."

Kakashi's eyes widened slightly. "The Mizukage? How are they connected?"

The Hokage didn't immediately respond, as he pieced together the fragments of a long-buried memory. "It was during a time of civil unrest in the Hidden Mist. The Mizukage believed in the necessity of a shadow force... much like the anbu system we have here. A covert organisation that could operate outside the boundaries of the village."

Kakashi processed the information in silence, his mind racing to connect the dots. "But if The Byakuya serves as a protective force, then why does the organisation work on a transactional level? I overheard Fayelle and Cash saying that their only duty is to 'complete the job and collect their money'?"

"Somewhere along the line, The Byakuya splintered," The Hokage explained, "Yagura Karatachi, the current Mizukage, and his leadership isolated Kirigakure from the other Great Nations. He's known as a barbaric and violent ruler... leading under a regime, civil unrest and rebel movement culminated within The Byakuya. They stopped serving Kirigakure and began persuing their own agenda."

Kakashi's face hardened as the realisation dawned on him, "The Byakuya... it must be a bounty hunting organisation. That must be what Fayelle and Cash were discussing. They also mentioned that Reaper-sama, who I can only assume to be their leader, has been affected by losing one of her top ninjas, Kunoichi Thirteen."

"Why are they desperate to get her back, Kakashi?" The Hokage asked.

"They mentioned that Kunoichi Thirteen can use blood manipulation, and their leader wants her back because she can kill and leave no trace," Kakashi replied.

The Hokage's eyes narrowed, he inhaled sharply and his expression hardened as Kakashi's words hung in the air. The Hokage leaned back in his chair his eyes scrunching up under the weight of what he just said. Then, with a loud inhale he reached into the stacks of files on his desk, pulling one out with a somber familiarity.

"This," he began, placing a weathered folder on the desk before him, "is Sakumo Hatake's last mission report."

Kakashi stiffened, frozen in place under the thick atmosphere of grief.

The Hokage opened the file, revealing hastily written notes smudged with dirt and bloodstains. "Sakumo's team encountered Kunoichi Thirteen during their mission in the neutral area between us and Kirigakure. They encountered Kiri shinobi and other ninjas in this area. According to his report, her use of blood manipulation was unlike anything they'd ever faced. And when one of his teammates was caught in the crossfire, Sakumo abandoned the mission to save his team."

Kakashi's jaw tightened, his hands curling into fists at his sides. He remained silent, staring past the Hokage, his mind racing through images he had tried to bury.

"Sakumo made the difficult decision to save what remained of his team," The Hokage  continued. "He retreated to ensure their survival, but the consequences of abandoning the mission were severe. He faced dishonor, disgrace—and eventually, his death."

His gaze softened, though his voice remained firm. "It's no coincidence that Kunoichi Thirteen's name resurfaces now, Kakashi. Finding any information linking Y/N Uzumaki to Kunoichi Thirteen is imperative. Those two shinobi wouldn't have attacked her without suspecting Y/N is their target..."

"Kakashi, I want you to keep an eye on Y/N Uzumaki and observe if she uses any blood manipulation techniques around you," The Hokage demanded, "Dismissed."

Cash and Fayelle shuffled through the corridors of The Byakuya praying that their presence would not alert Reaper-sama. The stone-walled corridors squeezed the last atoms of air as Cash and Fayelle exchanged a glance, their eyes nervously meeting—a short prayer of hope that they might make it out alive. Every step they took creaked against the wood floorboards. Each creak tightened the noose that hung around their necks. Each step is another close to death.

Failure within The Byakuya wasn't just a stain on their reputation as bounty hunters. It was a death sentence. Reaper-sama didn't tolerate weakness. Fayelle's heart drummed against her ribs as Cash silently shuffled beside her.

"It's fine, we'll be okay," Fayelle whispered, her voice barely audible.

Cash didn't respond. He swallowed hard as he followed Fayelle into Reaper-sama's office before holding his breath under her presence.

The room drowned in darkness, with the dim glow of a few flickering candles, casting an eerie shadow across the stone-cold walls. The light barely reached the four-quarters of the room, the cold and wet air choking Cash and Fayelle as they stayed frozen in place. In the centre of the room stood a desk, surrounded by a thick black curtain that concealed whatever lay behind it.

Reaper-sama sat behind the curtain, unseen to the shinobi in front of her but her presence was undeniable. The air thickened around Cash and Fayelle as they could feel Reaper-sama's gaze. A predatory focus that chilled them to their bones.

"Failure, again..." The voice was disturbingly calm with a deadly edge as Reaper-sama spat at Cash and Fayelle.

Cash sub-consciously reached his hand out towards Fayelle, his hand suspended in the air before his fingertips faintly brushed Fayelle's.

Reaper-sama tilted her head as she observed the two C-ranked Ninja's before her as she decided their fate. "And you thought you could walk my halls without bringing back my daughter... my princess?"

Fayelle swallowed hard, her throat dry as chalk as her pulse pounded in her ears. Neither of them dared to speak before her.

The room fell into a tense silence as Reaper-sama's words hung in the air, painfully stretching out the last few moments of Cash and Fayelle's death sentence. The cold seeped into their bones as they loomed in the darkness.

"There are no second chances."

Suddenly, the flames of the candles extinguished, plunging the room into pitch-black darkness as a loud thud echoed through the room before a bloodied and bruised man entered Reaper-sama's chamber.

"You called for me?"

"Kakuzu, where is my Y/N?" Reaper-sama asked, her words echoing through the room.

Kakuzu entered as he glanced at the two lifeless bodies lying on top of each other, blood pooling at his feet as it drenched his shoes.

"My my Reaper-sama, you sure do have a penchant for violence," Kakuzu chuckled as he kicked the bodies lying under his feet, "I have no idea where she is."

The candles in the room resumed their flickering, shedding light on the tension between Kakzuku and Reaper-sama.

"You seem to misunderstand your position, Kakuzu," Reaper-sama said vehemently.

"You see, I haven't misunderstood anything," Kakuzu laughed, "You have been losing more and more bounty hunters by the day, their bodies mysteriously disappearing... many heading to Orochimaru's lab and simply never returning. Many having been sentenced to death in your chambers. Yet here you are blinded by the loss of Y/N that you can't even see how crippled we have become."

Reaper-sama's mood turned sour as the gravity of his words smeared a venomous look on her face.

"You bastard, don't you dare tell me how to do my job."

"Haven't you noticed that many of our valuables have been going missing? Or the fact that our ledgers no longer add up? Or the fact that more and more A-ranked bounty hunters have managed to run from your grasp?" Kakuzu scoffed.

"I wouldn't be surprised if you were the culprit selling away all our fortune. Explain why your income increased suddenly last month." Reaper-sama spat.

"You know that I bounty-hunt more than any other shinobi here, don't act so confused you bitch."

Suddenly, a kunai ripped through the curtains as it flew towards Kakuzu as it grazed his earlobe, digging into the stone-cold wall behind him.

"Damn you, you insolent fool! I know you helped my princess escape, and I know that you are stealing from our ledgers and selling off our fortune. And when I find out, I will personally behead you and drink from your skull."

"Oh how scary," Kakuzu mocked, "I'm not worried about a bitch who hides behind a curtain and has us doing her dirty work. Besides, I have five lives to live off now."

Slamming the door of Reaper-sama's chamber, he stormed down the corridor and shoved past the masses of useless shinobi.

Night had settled over the Land of Frost painting the sky in hues of deep blue, the twinkle of the stars keeping Akira, Shisui and I company. The mission had been long and arduous, and the chill in the air nipped at our skin, but the team was in high spirits as we made our way back to Konoha.

Shisui glanced over his shoulder to find me hobbling for balance as I trailed behind him. My energy had been drained from my body and with each glance or turn I made with my head, the world around me spun relentlessly.

I could see Shisui walk towards me as my brain desperately tried to stop my vision from blurring with each step I took.

'C'mon eyes, don't betray me now' I mentally cursed. He reached to my side and noticed the slight tremor in my hands as I struggled for balance.

"That jutsu of yours... I'm never doing it with you again," I joked.

The air around us filled with his breathy giggles as he took my hand in his. "Y/N, you don't have to push yourself any further. I'll carry you back."

My eyes softly met his as his gaze softened.

"I'm fine Shisui, a bit blind and dizzy but it comes and goes, I'm fine, I promise," I said, as I removed my hand from his, determined more than ever to make it back to Konoha

Besides, being carried all the way to Konoha on Shisui's back?! I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought about him more times than I care to admit.

There's something undeniable about the way his compression vest fits him perfectly, accentuating the strong lines of his shoulders and back. The feel of his body moving beneath me, the steady rhythm of his breath, and the warmth that radiates from him—it all sends my heart racing.

Suddenly, I was pulled from my thoughts with a short flick to my forehead.

"No, you're not," Shisui said softly, "Besides, it's my fault that you're dizzy. At least let me make it up to you by getting you home safely."

"Shisui are you sure... I don't want to be a burden." I whispered.

For a moment, his gaze met mine with a warmth that made my heart skip a beat. There was a gentle sincerity in his eyes, but gazing further into his warm, onyx eyes showed something deeper that I couldn't quite put into words.

"Taking care of my team will never be a burden. Besides, it's captains orders," Shisui remarked me as he knelt in front of me so that I could climb on his back.

"Thank you, Shisui," I murmured, feeling a flush creep up my cheeks as I buried my face in his back.

The proximity was intoxicating, and for a fleeting moment, I let myself savor the closeness we shared.

"How's the view from up there?" Shisui chuckled, as his grip around my thighs tightened.

Every shift in his posture and the subtle firmness of his muscles, each slight adjustment he makes to keep me steady, only makes me more aware of how close we are.

The feel of his gentle, steady heartbeat felt electrifying. I couldn't help but steal glances at him – the way his curls fell slightly forward as he moved, or the way his jaw tightened with concentration.

"Meh, I've seen better," I said as I rolled my eyes.

I leaned towards him slightly, my head resting against his as my voice dropped to a softer tone, whispering in his ear, "Just promise me you won't drop me, okay?"

I could see the faint blush on his cheeks, and it made me smile. "No promises Uzumaki," Shisui chuckled, the sound vibrating against my back as he adjusted his grip.

I smiled, feeling a little more at ease despite the lingering butterflies in my stomach.

Akira threw his hands up in mock despair as he groaned loudly, "Seriously we're on a mission here, you two make me sick."

I couldn't help but smirk, leaning my head further against Shisui's, "Maybe we should leave Akira behind. He seems a little bitter."

Shisui snickered. "You're so right, that sounds perfect!"

Akira rolled his eyes as we walked off in the distance. "You guys may as well leave me behind. I'm going to have all my shinobi rights revoked from me as soon as we hit Konoha... and I'll spend the rest of my days as a penniless vagabond, begging for money as the rest of Konoha turns their cheek."

Shisui stopped in his track as we shared a silent smirk at Akira's dramatic monologue.

"That's quite the imagination you've got there," I teased as I watched Shisui stifle a laugh.

Shisui grinned, shaking his head, "Don't worry Akira, we'll toss a few coins your way when we see you begging by the gates."

Akira groaned again, picking up his pace to walk alongside us. "I should have never introduced you to Y/N, Shisui. You were never this mean to me before..." Akira rambled as he sighed in defeat.

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

'What scum,' Kakashi thinks to himself after delivering his mission report to the Hokage.

His father, the great Sakumo Hatake, the white fang of the leaf, consumed with the guilt of shaming his village, killed himself all because of her.

If she proved to be Kunoichi Thirteen, he would never forgive her.

And across the Land of Fire, The Reaper suffers a massive loss. Yet, she's blinded from it all. All she wants is her sweet daughter. Her Y/N Uzumaki.

But y'all, Shisui giving us a ride?! No, not that type of ride (not yet atleast 😏) back to the village? He's so hot and so humble and confident I need him for real.

Hope you enjoyed this one, Suri

[maelstroms-blog]

Another dabble, this time Hob shows Dream the delights of going to sleep.

The lord of dreams lay wide awake, how ironic. He lay in the, albeit, comfortable double bed, staring up at the ceiling. Though the room was shrouded in darkness, he could clearly make out the pattern in the light fixture above him.

He sighed, glancing over at his partner. Hob lay on his back, shut away from the waking world and fully immersed in the Dreaming. A sudden pang hit Dream in the chest.

Jealousy.

Watching someone else experience his creations filled him with pride but sometimes he wished he could experience it for himself. He had only ever admitted this to Hob.

He smiled that smile of his, the one that crinkled his eyes and said,

'Well, why don't you?'

Dream blinked.

'Sleep like a human.'

As the silence grew, Hob's smile dipped slightly,

'Do you know how?'

Dream let out a scoff,

'I am the embodiment of the collective consciousness, king of Dreams and Nightmares, of course, I know how.'

Hob looked at him,

'But have you?'

Dream's unblinking gaze wavered, only slightly, but Hob noticed. Hob always noticed.

'I thought so, come with me,' he held out a hand, motioning him to follow. Dream looked at it, the way a king would scrutinze an offering.

The king accepted. The pale, slender hand fit nicely into Hob's calloused palm. They made their way towards the bedroom, Dream quirked an eyebrow,

'Again, Hob Gadling? My, your stamina is to be admired.'

The Dream king would be lying if he said he didn't enjoy Hob's reaction. His cheeks flushed bright red and he spluttered a bit before speaking.

'No, my darling, dear, not that, we're trying to relax.'

Dream smirked, watching as Hob opened his wardrobe and pulled out pair after pair of pyjamas,

'Take your pick, duck, I have a decade's worth of pyjamas. Everyone seems to give them out at Christmas.'

Dream only half listened, thumbing through each folded set, his frown growing deeper and deeper.

Hob chuckled, 'Not to your liking, huh?'

He pulled out a rainbow pair of joggers,

'Oh, great, I was looking for these,' he shucked the pair he was wearing, much to Dream's amusement. Then, his eyes found a dark pair, navy cuffed joggers, dotted with silver stars. They were soft, like the clouds he hung in the Dreaming, or Hob's hair.

'Oh, if you like those, I have just the shirt to go with them.'

Searching through the pile, he found another dark item. A blue shirt, large, it would have swamped Dream's thin frame, and on the front, a picture of a large, fluffy cat, sprawled on its back.

'Guess why I bought this one,' Hob smiled, Dream accepted the shirt, never taking his eyes off the cute image.

'These will suffice.'

After he changed, and allowed Hob to take a photo on his mobile telephone. He subjected him to a warm bath, complete with overpowering bath bombs. Hob couldn't stop marvelling at his fluffy, towel dried hair. After that, Hob offered a hot chocolate, though Dream claimed it was too sweet, it didn't stop him from drinking the whole thing.

Once they were situated in Hob's bed, and Dream had been buried in every blanket Hob owned. He went through the step by step process of going to sleep. He lay down flat, pulling Dream to his side. They chatted for a while, about nothing, about everything, and then, with a sigh and a snore, Hob entered the Dreaming.

Leaving Dream behind.

He huffed, trying not to take offence, but it was hard not to when he was left alone, with his thoughts. The darkness suddenly didn't feel so comforting. Dream sighed, the weight from the blankets weighed heavier and heavier on his chest. He thought of all his responsibilities, the duties he was neglecting while he lay there, pretending.

This is foolish, Dream thought, he should just leave and return to the Dreaming, he would find Hob there and explain to him.

Just as he shifted, trying to remove the mountain of blankets, a warm hand sneaked around his waist, effectively pinning him there. Hob, still fast asleep, had turned and burrowed into Dream's side. His face nuzzled into his neck, his breath hot against his skin. This close, he could smell all of Hob, the scent of old books, leather and lavender from their bath.

Dream looked at him, memorising every line and wrinkle in his partner's face. He sank back into the blankets, staring at Hob until his eyes closed.

He yawned, all thoughts of escaping vanished from his mind.

[elysianymph]

jegulily enemies to lovers!!

AAAA i go FERAL over this idea all the time!! don't mind the word vomit you're about to witness, none of these sentences are grammatically correct i fear

ok ok so it's more lovers to enemies to lovers but still

jegulily date in this au, kinda. there's a brief period during their hogwarts years where regulus is just desperate enough for attention, james is coming off of his high horse and becoming bearable and lily is breaking away from her toxic friendship with snape. basically right place right time, or rather wrong place wrong time bc they end up meeting together (how they do i'm not too sure but i'll figure it out)

they all know each other from before obviously. james and regulus hate each other, they're been at each other's throats a couple times under the guise of quidditch rivalries but only they know it goes much deeper than that. regulus has a strange respect for lily because of how smart and talented she is, but he's confused about it bc... she's a muggleborn?? lily pities regulus because she sees herself reflected in him. james and lily are like acquaintances at this point, that awkward phase where james is maturing and lily is realising that hems not that bad at all

so they get closer, secret meetings and all that and when jily graduate they plan to get regulus out of grimmauld as soon as possible so they will all be safe once the war starts

enter walburga and her plans to suck up to voldemort so their family will get some prestige back. the blacks are kind of going through a crisis because two very prominent family members have rebelled, not to mention the ones before them, and what better way to prove themselves as purebloods than to have the heir take on the dark mark?

regulus does not want it, but he doesn't have much of a choice. his father is sick and his situation is only getting worse which means regulus is soon to become the man of the house and the only male heir. if he runs away he knows walburga will find him and hunt down anyone who stands in her way and he can't have james or lily hurt or sirius dragged back to the family he so desperately ran away from. so he takes the mark.

but he remains with james and lily, listening as they plan and scheme how they are going to save him without knowing that he is too far gone. he has signed his life over. it's only when lily gets persistent that regulus should take his chances and run while his father is weak that he can't take it anymore and he yanks up his sleeve, revealing the dark mark. both lily and james stand in shock, not really processing what is going on and while they regain their composure, regulus has already left their flat and is never heard from again.

canon stuff happens: voldemort returns, jily get married and have harry, snape overhears the prophecy but when he goes to tell voldemort, regulus is nearby and is able to gather just enough information to connect the dots. once he realizes that it's lily and james who are in danger he immediately starts planning.

canon continues although the timeline is a bit messed up: voldemort uses kreacher, regulus finds out about the locket and goes into the cave. only this time he doesn't send kreacher back with the duty of hiding the real locket, instead he tells him to find james and lily and explain everything about voldemort's plans and the horcruxes. he hopes that will be enough to make up for his mistakes.

kreacher doesn't like this plan very much bc he ends up going against regulus' orders and leaves both the locket AND regulus at the potter's doorstep, then he disappears. james opens the door to a feverish and bloodied regulus and, against his better judgement, takes him in to heal him. lily is furious (as she should be) bc her husband just brought in a death eater (+their ex) into their safe house while voldemort is literally trying to hunt them down!!

regulus wakes up on their couch and lily drugs him so he will tell them the truth. dramatic revelations and "i love you"s are spoken but it's too late for them to fix anything. they work on a plan to get the rest of the horcruxes all while trying to figure out who the spy is + hiding regulus from everyone bc they don't know who they can trust anymore.

enter regulus and harry bonding, jegulily reminiscing about what they used to have, complicated plans involving fraud, polyjuice potions, explosives and MURDER (lily evans should be in jail but she's a girlboss so we'll let it slide). i'll stop here in hopes of keeping something secret if i end up writing this hehehe

but in short lots of morally grey characters, angst, hurt/comfort (wow!), character studies, war crimes and baby harry being cute and lightening the mood of every chapter. i should really write this man

[deepspacedukat]

Recenter

I was in a very introspective mood, and while I was asking myself some very important questions, I felt an intense desire to untangle some thoughts via a character. Obviously this doesn’t reflect my situation, but this is how I felt S’Talon might handle similar questions. I didn’t even intend to write anything cohesive or post-worthy, but I didn’t want to just delete this. May as well toss it into the void that is tumblr dot com. In my mind, this is pre-Raptor’s Descent Enjoy!

S’Talon belongs to @bigblissandlove1 - thank you so much, friend, for allowing me to use your pretty Romulan Captain Mans to ramble like this! 💖

Cross-posted to AO3 here.

~*~

S’Talon (OC)

[A/N: I was in a mood. S’Talon decided to pop in and exist in my brain for a while.]

Warnings: None, unless introspection and discussions of artistic processes bothers you.

~*~

As S’Talon stared at the blank canvas before him, he almost felt as though it was staring back at him. The last mission he’d returned from had been difficult, and it left him feeling exponentially more introspective and reserved than he normally did. Everything felt just a little bit more up in the air...less tethered than it had before, and he found himself wondering why.

He hadn’t felt this unsettled in decades. His first mission with the Tal Shiar had been so filled with excitement and action that when it ended, he was left with a detached, floating sort of feeling. It was as if the adrenaline pumped its way through his system, leaving behind a gaping void where his sense of direction and purpose had once been.

He’d taken several weeks after that first mission to recompose himself - to ask some difficult questions and face the honest answers to those questions head on. Where did he want his life to take him? What sort of a person did he see himself becoming? How much should he allow his position in the Tal to change him? He hadn’t wanted to lose who he was...to give up his art entirely in favor of espionage.

But art had no place in his future, at least not officially. He had a family name to live up to. He had a reputation to uphold, duties to perform, and expectations to fulfill. As much as he felt as though the Elements guided his hands when he was creating, he knew that he had to do something meaningful for Romulan society. The Tal Shiar’s work was dangerous, but entirely vital.

So...why did he feel like this? Why did he feel so empty after decades of exemplary service? Why was there a hollow in the pit of his stomach after so many successful missions? Why this mission in particular?

And why was the vibrancy of his paints suddenly so offensive to him?

Oh, the paints themselves hadn’t changed, but with the gray mood he was in, the reds and yellows and greens all seemed so...garish. He thought that painting something warm and light might lift his mood, but all the colors had done for him as he’d pulled out the tubes was make him irritable.

Downing a glass of kali-fal, the Riov swept the tubes of paint back into the box he stored them in and switched tactics altogether.

What material brought him the most comfort? What felt like a natural extension of his being?

Charcoal. The expressive lines and smudges were as seductive to him now as they had been when he first smeared it across a page. Paradoxically, the lightness of the stick in his hand grounded him better than anything else in the universe. Whenever he was stuck on a particular question, charcoal held an answer.

Securing his largest pad of paper to his easel in place of the canvas, S’Talon allowed himself to work in large strokes, swiping vine charcoal over the paper in slow, delicate movements to create blobs of gray. Taking a deep breath as he began to smooth out the edges, he began to feel the tension bleed out of him.

This he understood. There was no question of why he loved charcoal. He had no need to ask himself how to create a particular effect with this medium, because he’d used it so much that it was second-nature. He’d filled dozens of sketchbooks with nothing but pencil and charcoal. He’d stained many white garments and linens with the residue left on his fingers after losing himself within his sketches. Hell, he’d even walked into a meeting with Koval unaware that there was a smudge of the stuff across his cheek. 

Glancing out the window at the rain pattering gently down across the horizon, S’Talon breathed deeply, forcing his mind to turn itself off to everything else but the paper in front of him. He would allow his subconscious to stew over his questions and problems while he created some sort of organized chaos with his charcoal. He’d need a clean shirt after this session. He always did when he was in one of these heavy moods, but he didn’t care. All that mattered was letting his materials take him away from himself for a little while.

Pouring himself a second glass of kali-fal, S’Talon shifted on his stool as he evaluated his progress, not even noticing the dark gray smudges left on his glass.

~*~*~

Taglist:

@bigblissandlove1 @darkmattervibes @emilie786 @horta-in-charge @toebeans-mcgee

[forthedancingandthethriving]

(Silly little idea. Also, for the Program's appearance, go look up "The Goddess of Everything Else" and look at the second appearance of the The Goddess of Everything Else! That's the design I'm using for the Program!)

Long ago, there were two beings; one of code pure and one of code vile.

A Program and a Virus.

The Program had a slender and long body, like a snake. Frills of what were like seaweed made a mane below the head, with circles made of dots on the edges. These frills were on the midsection and the near end of the Program's body. A single horn was on the head of the Program, a soft pale and mint green in stark contrast to the darker greens of the body.

The Virus was a snake, silver scales of code often glittering in whatever light there was. Scars from injuries past would litter its body, and it's piecing yellow eyes made any who look at them stop in their tracks.

The Virus and the Program kept to themselves, in a small space far from others. They knew of the tales of those outside, and they did not wish to engage.

The Program and the Virus had split their space between them. The Program had a vast and deep ocean, while the Virus had an endless and scorching desert. Both agreed to only go into the others land when given permission.

Not out of respect, but an understanding; the other was the only one that could kill them.

Both would do their own duties.

The Program would rip bits off of its frills and toss it out into the unknown after a drop of water went upon it. These codes would become ones with protective power. Ones to defend universes. To watch over them.

The Virus would tear off its own scales and toss it out into the unknown after a drop of venom when upon it. These codes would mutate into something else. Destructive and evil, wreaking havoc where ever they went.

The Program never did its duties to stop the Virus. No. It was selfish, like the Virus. It wanted control, absolute and neverending. The bits of frills it ripped off would listen to it when the time came.

One day, however, the Virus left their space and returned. The Program saw how it was bigger. This would continue, for days and days, days turning to weeks, and soon weeks to months.

The Program learned why the Virus was growing; it was destroying universes. Eating them. Gaining more power. The Program grew fearful, and it too began to leave. It went to universes, but it did not destroy them.

No, it went to universes and hailed itself as a hero. A savior. The Program gave universes codes so that they could defend themselves. So that they could keep themselves. The use of the codes made the Program grow.

Soon, the invetiable confrontation came.

The Virus spoke, the Program spat, and then lunged. The fight continued on both land and sea, the fight between the powerful beings sending shockwaves throughout their space.

Both nearly killed each other in the process. However, before either could land the killing blow, two shots of code were fire.

Both struck the Program and the Virus. All who had met or known of either had their names begin to fade from memory.

Enraged at the other, the Program and the Virus lunged, but it didn't work. The Program ended up knocking the Virus out of the space the two called their home, whilst the Virus badly wounded the Program.

The Virus fell from the space, and the Program retreated to the water. The Program was content, believing it had won. And so, it allowed itself to fall into a deep slumber, deep in a ravine of its ocean.

Meanwhile, the Virus, scorned and enraged, continued its rampage. It went from universe to universe, devouring all to regain strength and enact its revenge.

But that revenge could never come, as three Admins found it and what it was doing. Using their own skills and trickery, they managed to capture the Virus in a prison of its own code.

Once, the Virus managed to escape, going by a name it had taken due to forgetting its old name. But luck was not on its side, as it was captured again.

But still, it swore.

The Virus would find a way out, and not only would its jailers know its wrath, but so too would the Program.

[affordableevaluations]

Things You Need to Know About DOT Return-To-Duty Process

Returning to work after failing a drug or alcohol test is a complicated process. In the United States, the Department of Transportation (DOT) has specific regulations in place to ensure that employees who have tested positive for drugs or alcohol undergo a thorough evaluation and meet certain requirements before returning to safety-sensitive positions. This process is known as the DOT Return-to-Duty process. In this article, we will discuss the things you need to know about the DOT Return-to-Duty process.

What is the DOT Return-to-Duty Process?

The DOT Return-to-Duty Process is a set of regulations that apply to employees who have tested positive for drugs or alcohol. The process involves several steps, including a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluation, treatment if necessary, and follow-up testing. The goal of the process is to ensure that employees are no longer using drugs or alcohol and are safe to return to safety-sensitive positions.

What is a Substance Abuse Professional?

A Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) is a licensed professional who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of individuals who have violated DOT drug and alcohol regulations. SAPs are responsible for conducting the initial evaluation of the employee and developing a treatment plan, if necessary. They also provide follow-up testing and determine when the employee is ready to return to work.

What Happens During the SAP Evaluation?

During the SAP evaluation, the employee will meet with the SAP to discuss their drug or alcohol use. The SAP will also review the employee's drug and alcohol testing history, medical history, and any other relevant information. Based on this information, the SAP will determine if the employee requires treatment and develop a treatment plan if necessary. Once the employee has completed treatment, the SAP will provide a written report to the employer indicating whether the employee is fit to return to work.

What Happens After the SAP Evaluation?

After the SAP evaluation, the employee may be required to undergo treatment for their drug or alcohol use. The treatment may include counseling, outpatient treatment, or inpatient treatment. Once the employee has completed treatment, they will be required to undergo follow-up testing. The number and frequency of follow-up tests will depend on the SAP's recommendation.

What if the Employee Refuses to Participate in the Return-to-Duty Process?

Employees who refuse to participate in the DOT Return-to-Duty process will not be allowed to return to safety-sensitive positions. Employers are required to maintain a list of SAPs who are qualified to provide evaluations and treatment, and employees are responsible for selecting an SAP from the list. If the employee refuses to participate in the process, they will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Conclusion

The DOT Return-to-Duty process is a necessary step to ensure the safety of employees in safety-sensitive positions. The process involves several steps, including a SAP evaluation, treatment if necessary, and follow-up testing. Employees who refuse to participate in the process will not be allowed to return to work in safety-sensitive positions. If you or someone you know needs to go through the DOT Return-to-Duty process, consult to Affordable Evaluations for assistance in finding a qualified SAP and navigating the process.

[dotsapsolutions]

Find Trusted DOT SAP Providers at DOT SAP Solutions

Looking for certified DOT SAP providers? DOT SAP Solutions offers expert evaluations and guidance to help you meet DOT requirements. Our experienced SAP professionals provide the support you need to complete the return-to-duty process and get back to work safely and efficiently.

[secretariatess]

Arvek 49

            They had an audience as they got ready to leave the next morning.  The townspeople had stopped in their morning duties to watch the Crown Prince and his cohorts gather themselves to leave.  For Selim’s sake, Arvek was not a fan of the attention, but he was not about to bark at them to leave.  Their solemn faces said they still held concerns about his promises.  They wanted a glimpse of him, as though to catch him there and then going back on his word.

            When everyone was loaded and mounted, Kendra called to move out and started off at a brisk trot.  Arvek gave the townspeople one last sweeping look, wishing he could do more for them in that moment.  And then he followed after Kendra.

            For the first portion of the day, travel went smoothly as it could be.  They passed many bare fields, sown and waiting for spring to arrive.  Trees dotted the horizon, punctuated with houses in the distance. On occasion, the sky would drop snowflakes on them, leaving a light dusting here and there.

            As they traveled out of the farmlands, the path became less and less visible, until it vanished completely.  Kendra continued on from memory.  They were forced to slow down as road, or lack thereof, did not accommodate wagons and thus led to bumpy rides for Rasinod and, unfortunately, Selim.

            Night fell as the tree line drew closer to their party.  In the cold darkness, their looming shapes were ominous, daring them to enter.  Had it not been so dark, Arvek imagined he would have been able to see the points of the taller buildings in the capitol peeking over the tips of the trees.  Kendra stopped them for the night in the shadow of the woods, promising that the next leg of the journey would be difficult enough.

            Their reward in the morning were sore muscles and bruised skin.  There was a breakfast that was prepared and consumed quickly and quietly, as it was evident everyone’s mood had been soured than the less than comfortable night.  The exceptions were Kendra, who likely was used to this kind of arrangement, and Cor, whose spirits lifted in the presence of a friend and a closer proximity to home.

            From the point forward, their pace slowed considerably.

            While horse and rider were able to travel reasonably well over the knobbly roots of the forest floor and between the tree trunks, Rasinod’s wagon had a much harder time.  Stopping was a constant as Rasinod called out in complaint that his wagon would not fit.  Kendra would then flit around the trees and work out a path that was wide enough, causing Rasinod to back out of his position and follow it.

            The evening arrived with little regard to their lack of progress.  They were forced to find a spot for the night.  Rasinod administered Selim’s treatment before dinner, prompting Arvek to stay with him instead of huddling around the fire like the others.  He turned down Cor’s offering of food.  Seeing the look on his face, Cor made no insistence and returned to his spot at the fire.  Selim’s look of pleading before the treatment sent him under had killed Arvek’s appetite and hunger.

            As dinner was cleared, Kendra taught Cor a few camp songs.  They were fund and clearly meant for lifting spirits and bringing entertainment, not a single one took itself seriously.  There were guffaws from the guards as they processed what the lyrics were saying, and the inventive word plays the songs employed.  Kendra then prompted Cor to dig up something from his repertoire to sing.  At first he balked, claiming he knew no entertaining songs like she did, and only solemn ones.  But after much insistence, he relented and began one that Arvek remembered with a shapr pang.  It was a song their mother used to sing to her sons to get them to sleep.  Rumored to have been written by a queen or a noble lady, the song told the story of the woman’s lover journeying across the mountains bordering the Veil to fight in a war.  Her song was a plea to the mountains to not harm him in the journey.

            Cor had started the song clearly just to appease Kendra, but as he carried on, he got pulled into the melody and the lyrics.  His notes rose and fell with the emotions, the still trees echoing his tenor voice mournfully and wistfully.  The fire quieted its crackling to listen, popping only at poignant moments.  The song softened, calling out the woman’s final plea to the mountains:

            If you only knew the love I have for him

                        Perhaps I could convince you

                                    To stay your cruelty

            Oh, great mountains covered in sleeping green

                        No one can command you

                                    You will do as you please

            But if you could only grant me mercy

                        Make just one story right

                                    Bring him back to me

            You can see he faces tragedy untold

                        Do not rob his might

                                    And bring him back to me

            Cor’s voice trailed away on the final words, the woods mimicking his last, forlorn notes.  A silence followed, no one wanting to break the melancholic spell Cor’s song had cast.

            Finally, a guard stood up, giving a forced chuckle.  “Man, I would say these woods are creepier than the Veil Forest,” he commented, looking around.

            His comment broke the spell.  The others began shifting, aware again of their ability to move.  The fire let out a loud pop!, realizing it could be noisy again.

            “I don’t know,” Cor said, “we never actually slept in the Veil Forest. I imagine we would think differently if we had.”

            It was suggested that they should bettering sleep, as it was getting late.  There was quick agreement, and the party settled for the night.

            The next day brought the challenges of the previous one, resulting in the same amount of progress.  With every setback, Arvek was forced to remember that Rasinod had limited supplies for his treatment for Selim.  He wondered if this really had been the better option, if going through the western towns would have been better and worth the risk.

          �� The day after that, they encountered swampy land, not yet frozen by the dropping temperatures.  While the horses, for the most part, could pick their way through, Rasinod’s wagon was continuously getting stuck in the soft ground.  Even with Kendra testing the ground ahead of the wagon, they would have to stop every so often to pull Rasinod out.  Each stop caused Arvek more concern.  Combined with his distrust of his own guards after their betrayal, Arvek had successfully gotten everyone to stop speaking to him unless it was absolutely necessary.  If his expression wasn’t enough, his cold responses were.

            Kendra refused to stop in the swampy area, even for a break.  She only relented after they had reached solid ground again.  She informed the party that they would do well to take a light sleep there, as they would press on through the night.  Arvek was ready to argue with her, if only because of the pent up frustration, but he soothed himself with the idea that if she was asking them to sleep some now, then they couldn’t be far off.

            The little bit of sleep he was able to capture did him some good and he found himself in a little bit of a better mood when Kendra roused them all.  He did not feel like chatting still, but he was not as ready to snap at anyone after Rasinod had to find another route through the trees.

            Darkness fell, and Kendra still pressed on, lighting a small lamp she had tucked away and attaching it to her belt.  It did not appear to be an oil lamp, but rather one powered perhaps by a magical source.  Cor took great interest in it and he forgot about his weariness in his excitement to learn more about it.  Arvek caught bits and pieces of her answers, where he gathered that it was something that could be purchased in underground operations, but he was too focused on getting home to pay attention to the mechanics of the lamp.  He was just glad that she had something she could use to help them continue following her.

            The woods thinned out, giving glimpses of plain field ahead.  A great shadow loomed in the distance.  Arvek straightened, sucking his breath as he laid eyes on the capitol.

            At last.  At last.

            He could not articulate, even in his own mind, the cause of all his relief.  He could only repeat those two words to himself.

            At last.  At last.

            His horse could sense his eagerness and it picked up the pace, ears pricked.  He was not the only one- as the others began to recognize the sight, the tired shuffling turned into a brisk pace.

            Kendra took them all the way up to the gates of the capitol.  There she stopped, letting the party pass her.  Cor and Arvek hung behind, letting the guards and Rasinod pass through first after clearing themselves with the sentry.  Cor and Kendra exchanged a friendly goodbye, an entire conversation condensed into a few sentences each.  It would have carried on longer, but Cor noticed Arvek standing behind and hurriedly bade her farewell before crossing into the capitol.

            Kendra looked at Arvek, eyebrow raised expectantly.

            “I thank you for your service,” Arvek said stiffly.

            “That’s all I get?” she said teasingly.

            “For now,” he answered.

            “Show someone a shortcut, and we still can’t be friends,” she said, sighing.

            “There is a woman in a cell in Ault,” he said, “who responds to your name.”  He narrowed his eyes.  “Explain that first.”

            Between the dim light and the mask, her facial expression was unreadable.  She stared at him, studying him, searching him.  He waited, willing her to give any kind of explanation.  Even a lie.

            “That is a personal matter,” she said finally.  “In the meantime, you should worry about keeping your promise to the townspeople.”  She gestured to the gate.  “Farewell. Maybe we will meet again.”  Without waiting for him to step through, she backed her horse up and trotted away.

            Arvek watched her go, as though by doing so he would get a hint of something about her.  But she only headed back towards the woods, where eventually, the darkness swallowed her.

            Clenching his jaw, he crossed into the capitol.

[healthshielddot]

Navigating the Essentials: Understanding DOT Drug Testing and Compliance

In the realm of workplace safety and regulatory compliance, DOT drug testing stands as a crucial component for certain industries. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has implemented stringent guidelines to ensure that employees in safety-sensitive positions maintain a drug-free workplace. This article aims to shed light on the key aspects of DOT drug testing, its significance, and the steps employers and employees need to take to remain in compliance.

Understanding DOT Drug Testing DOT drug testing is a comprehensive program designed to detect and deter drug use among employees in safety-sensitive positions. These positions include roles within the transportation industry, such as commercial truck drivers, bus drivers, pilots, and railway workers. The primary objective of DOT drug testing is to enhance public safety by ensuring that individuals responsible for transportation-related activities are not under the influence of drugs that could impair their performance.

DOT Mandates and Regulations To uphold a uniform standard across different modes of transportation, the DOT has established specific regulations outlining the requirements for drug testing. Employers subject to DOT regulations are obligated to implement a comprehensive drug testing program that adheres to these guidelines. The testing process typically involves pre-employment testing, random testing, post-accident testing, reasonable suspicion testing, and return-to-duty testing.

Substances Covered by DOT Drug Testing DOT drug testing screens for a panel of substances that includes marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opioids, and phencyclidine (PCP). The testing methods employed are designed to detect recent drug use, ensuring that individuals are not impaired while performing safety-sensitive tasks.

Consequences of Non-Compliance Non-compliance with DOT drug testing regulations can have severe consequences for both employers and employees. Employers failing to implement an effective drug testing program may face fines, penalties, and even suspension of their operating authority. Employees who test positive may be subject to immediate removal from safety-sensitive duties and are required to undergo a substance abuse assessment and rehabilitation before returning to work.

Navigating the DOT Drug Testing Process For employers and employees subject to DOT regulations, understanding and navigating the drug testing process is essential. This involves staying informed about the latest updates to DOT regulations, implementing a robust drug testing program, educating employees about the consequences of drug use, and ensuring a fair and consistent approach to testing.

Click here for more information :-

Pre Employment Physicals Services

Breath and Alcohol Testing

[sukacheri]

ARIMA Chapter 1 [AO3 or Keep Reading below]

October, First Year

Hinata walked with purpose. The mid-October breeze that blew through his flimsy off-brand windbreaker blanketed his body in a distinct chill one could only feel once the sun set. Zipping up his jacket wouldn’t dissuade the cold, it only looked like a windbreaker after all, so Hinata let the flaps fly about in the wind like dual kites.

On his path the trees fought against the wind, shedding multi-colored leaves in the process. They danced around until settling onto the sidewalk, Hinata stepping on them with a satisfying crunch. He chose his steps carefully, picking out what he thought would be the most delicate and crispy leaves. 

He indulged for a few more feet, then continued at his original pace. Not running, but his frazzled hair blowing around him indicated a rush.

After a few minutes of speed walking, Yumenosaki was visible, just a few more blocks away. He couldn’t be certain of the time, but he assumed he would be rolling in right on the dot based on the clock he was keeping in his head. He was not feeling up for digging his phone out to check the exact minute, surely his instincts were tried and true enough to be correct.

He would have to trust them, because he really didn’t want to risk seeing any new messages on his phone.

Guilt squirmed around his gut at the mere thought of what exactly he was avoiding, but the alternative was something he couldn’t bear even more. It was like asking someone if they’d rather walk through coals or jump into a volcano. Both sucked, but equally? Not even close. And there was no contest to which one you’d pick when there’s no secret third option of ‘and they lived happily ever after’. 

Hinata derailed that train of thought from his brain, letting his main objective for the night take the wheel. He walked through the school campus, approaching the main auditorium, not a person around in sight. 

He was either arriving just in time as intended, or he was horrifically late. 

The door handle was icy against his palm as he pulled it open, reminding him that he should start bringing gloves if he kept planning to go out so late. Toes and fingers were the first to go, so you better take care of them.

As he entered he was thankfully greeted with muffled cheering of an audience from the concert hall. Hinata skipped past those doors, going instead for the side door leading to the hallway that would take him backstage. Now with a pathway around the crowd that would ensue like a flood as people left, Hinata walked at a more leisurely pace. He and the others would have to wait for the whole crowd to be gone before they could begin anyways.

“Oh, Hinata-kun! There you are,” Hajime said as Hinata entered the backstage area. 

Hinata smiled, ignoring the tinge of exhaustion in his cheeks. “Hey, Hajime-kun. Got everything ready? We should time ourselves and see how quickly we can get this done!”

“I think I’d only slow you down.” Hajime returned his smile cheerily. How was it that someone who surely worked twice as hard as Hinata could still keep his smiles so genuine? “We’re on sweeping duty, but don’t worry, I made sure to get us the working brooms. I may have hid them from last time.”

“I could really make a prankster out of you,” Hinata said. “If only you’d let me turn you to the dark side.”

“Kunugi-sensei is a bit too scary when he’s yelling at you, so I think I’ll have to pass on your lessons.”

Hinata shrugged. “Suit yourself. Now, pass me one of those brooms.”

Hajime handed one over, and Hinata knew he received the lesser one. It didn’t matter to Hinata, a broom’s a broom, but kind, sweet Hajime, selfless in all other acts, was particular about his cleaning supplies. 

“Hinata-kun, is it cold outside?” Hajime asked. “I haven’t been out since the live started and the sun went down.” He paused, eyes not leaving Hinata’s. “And your cheeks look a little red.”

Kind, sweet Hajime was interrogating him it seemed. He’d known the guy long enough now to see when his questions were less about what he was asking, and more about what he was implying. Even if Hinata didn’t know that, Hajime looked at him with concern, as if Hinata had trucked through miles of snow to get here and not the slight October breeze.

“Nah, it’s not cold! I was just running a bit to get here since I didn’t want to be late. That first time I got here right on time and I still had to beat the crowd going in. It was a nightmare, like swimming against a huge current.” Hinata tilted the broom in his hands, making a show of examining it before swinging it in a slow, exaggerated motion. “Now, en garde, Hajime-kun! Let’s duel and decide who gets the task of sweeping the front row!”

Hajime jumped back, holding his broom in front of him. “Ah! I’ll take the front row, I don’t mind!”

“Oh, I didn’t mean to coerce you into it, though? We can rock paper scissors if you want.”

“No, it’s okay, Hinata-kun,” Hajime said. “Besides, I’m so slow it really doesn’t matter where I start.”

Hinata would’ve scolded him for his lack of confidence in cleaning, but it was painfully true. He wasn’t sure how his classmate managed to so consistently be the last one to finish cleaning.

Hinata also wasn’t sure when his antics had taken a turn towards dueling jokes rather than exaggerated cons or begging, or whatever else he used to do.

Well, it wasn’t that hard to suss out. The influence’s face entered Hinata’s mind with piercing violet eyes, sending his stomach churning again. Hinata bit on his tongue, drawing his mind back to his present goal. He peeked his head out from the curtain and was delighted to see the audience was all gone.

Time to clean.

His tired body protested as he started to sweep, but Hinata pushed through it easily. That was one of his greatest strengths: his constitution. In times like these, he thought of himself as taffy. Being pushed and pulled, stretched thin, but never once breaking. He would come out of this completely fine, and with some additional money.

Yeah, sure, that’s why I’m doing this, Hinata thought as he sweeped an assortment of trash to the end of the row to pick up later. My real talent is running away. Yuuta-kun’s always said that, and I always prove him right.

The whole point of this busy schedule was to keep his bones and mind too tired to bother thinking about other things, and yet it felt like the longer it went on the more Hinata came back to it with increasing dread. Stretching himself thin wasn’t unusual behavior, it was what kept Yuuta so prickly with him after all, but Hinata had never had it work so ineffectively for him before.

Was he losing his touch? Or maybe there was a more simple answer.

Tsukasa was too earnest in his texts, not understanding they were supposed to be for sending jokes, “lol”, and various emoticons. That was clearly the problem here. It was no fault of Hinata’s that he couldn’t manage to exhaust himself and send all his troublesome thoughts away with fatigue by picking up trash after a busy fine live, no, it wasn’t his fault at all.

Hinata swallowed as he threw the trash away, thinking he wasn’t much different than what others deemed as garbage. Some napkins here, plastic wrap there, a crushed water bottle. Well, maybe he was different from a water bottle. They could at least be recycled, turned into something better. 

Poor Tsukasa had put all his affectionate wants and needs onto Hinata, and what a terrible choice that was. Tsukasa should know better, and he should be treating Hinata like the dust on the floor. Something to sweep away, throw outside, and strive to be rid of.

In truth, Hinata knew he was exaggerating, but didn’t they always say heartbreak would feel like the end of the world? Not that he was even currently heartbroken. Nope, the two halves of his heart were perfectly molded together, for now at least. It’d be a different story if he kept ignoring his boyfriend’s texts, sitting unopened on his phone like the second Hinata touched them they’d poison him. At least, that’s what it felt like. Or more like a bomb. A very dedicated ticking time bomb that Hinata carried around with him in his back pocket.

Thinking too hard about it made his stomach start to spin like a washing machine on full rinse, and he didn’t want to bother Hajime by throwing up right now—he was sure the other boy would actually take him home with him to take care of like a stray cat. There was still so much of the auditorium to clean, but at least they wouldn’t have to worry about the stage except for a quick sweep of anything left behind.

 So, Hinata threw himself into cleaning, being more thorough than someone paid 500 million yen to clean a single concert hall. His arms ached as he sweeped in a frenzy, his legs protested as he got on his knees to collect trash under the chairs, and his head began to throb in protest at having skipped lunch and now presumably dinner too. 

It was fine, he could eat when he got home. A quick snack before going to bed. And maybe a glance at his phone if his heart was worn out enough to bear it.

Maybe.

------

[Tsukasa]: 

10:15 AM

Do you want to try and meet up for lunch? It’s a bit chilly today so the roof may be open.

I’ll wait there, if you are available to join me.

11:40 AM

Yuuta-kun just mentioned that you’re working all day again today. You should at least eat lunch to keep your strength up.

[Hinata]:

12:18 PM

yea sorry!! no roof today. lunch another time!

[Tsukasa]:

12:19 PM

Of course.

I’m assuming you’ll be too busy to do anything after school, but if you’re not then I have a spare half an hour if you would like to have some tea.

5:23 PM

You’re likely at work now. Could you please text me when you’re off then? Or when you get home?

And if you are free tomorrow, I would really like to see you.

[master list] | [next]

[tcssapus]

Navigating DOT SAP Assessment: Understanding the Process and Cost

In safety-sensitive industries, maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace is essential for the well-being of employees and the integrity of operations. TCSSAP provides expertise in conducting DOT SAP assessments, offering insights into the process and the associated costs. Explore how these assessments contribute to safer workplaces and compliance with regulations.

Decoding DOT SAP Assessment

Promoting Safety and Compliance: A DOT SAP assessment, also known as a Substance Abuse Professional assessment, plays a critical role in ensuring that safety-sensitive employees adhere to drug and alcohol regulations mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT).

The Assessment Process

Guiding Employee Rehabilitation: When an employee violates DOT drug and alcohol regulations, a DOT SAP assessment is required. TCSSAP's process involves evaluating the employee's substance use history, conducting assessments, and recommending an appropriate treatment plan to facilitate their safe return to duty.

Qualified Substance Abuse Professionals

Expert Guidance: TCSSAP's team consists of qualified Substance Abuse Professionals who possess the knowledge and expertise to assess and guide employees through the rehabilitation process. Their insights are invaluable in ensuring that employees receive the support they need.

The Role of Compliance

Meeting DOT Requirements: DOT SAP assessments are not only about rehabilitation but also about compliance. TCSSAP ensures that employees meet DOT requirements, promoting workplace safety and the well-being of the entire team.

Understanding Assessment Costs

Investing in Safety: The cost of a DOT SAP assessment varies depending on several factors, including the type of violation, the level of assessment required, and the complexity of the case. However, the investment in safety and compliance is invaluable.

Tailored Assessment Plans

Customized Solutions: TCSSAP provides tailored assessment plans that align with each individual case. This approach ensures that employees receive the support and guidance that directly address their unique situation.

Facilitating Return to Duty

Supporting Reintegration: The ultimate goal of a DOT SAP assessment is to facilitate an employee's safe return to duty. TCSSAP's thorough assessment process and recommendations contribute to a smooth reintegration process.

Maintaining Safety Standards

Upholding Workplace Integrity: TCSSAP understands the importance of maintaining safety standards in safety-sensitive industries. Our DOT SAP assessments play a crucial role in ensuring that employees adhere to regulations and contribute to a secure and efficient workplace.

The Cost of Compliance

Investing Wisely: While the cost of a DOT SAP assessment may vary, it is an investment in compliance, safety, and employee well-being. TCSSAP's commitment to guiding employees through the process ensures that the cost leads to meaningful outcomes.

In conclusion, TCSSAP's expertise in DOT SAP assessments promotes safer workplaces, compliance with regulations, and the well-being of employees. By understanding the assessment process and associated costs, employers can prioritize safety and make informed decisions that benefit both their workforce and operations.