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runariya · 3 months

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Drive to Survive (JJK) • Chapter 6 “Addicts Deny”

pairing: F1driver!Jungkook x female race engineer!reader genre: colleagues2L, formula1!AU, racing!AU, drama, kind of fantasy/cyborg!AU fic rating: 18+, MDNI warnings: denial, denial, denial, unethical thoughts regarding race practice, lil meow makes an appearance, the FIA is sus, Jungkook is sorry, protective Jungkook because that's a warning for and of itself, MC is jealous, a little bit of fluff, but still she's in denial 🙄, a lot of embarrassment, MC is reckless, physical violence, threats, Jungkook has anger issues, slight PTS, a lil 'babe', MC can't face the truth, foul language, lmk if I forgot smth word count: ~ 7.400

🎵 Treasure - JIKJIN 🎵

a/n: okay, I've clearly lied regarding the writing break. Last night I've stayed awake with mini-me on me sleeping (even though we're both down with a high fever but whatever) and so I've spent the night writing away...so yeeeey! double unedited DtS- AND HR-Update 🎉

a/n 2: This work is purely fictional. All characters and events are entirely imaginary and do not reflect reality. Content errors related to the sport of Formula 1 are not excluded. Please do not use this story as your own. No translations are allowed without permission. Thank you for understanding! 💕

01 • 02 • 03 • 04 • 05 • series masterlist • 07

It's Monday after the race in São Paulo, and you find yourself back at the headquarters, preparing for the triple header ahead: three races in three consecutive weeks. The jet lag nags at the edges of your consciousness, but you push it aside, just as you try to maintain the facade that keeping Jungkook at a distance is easy.

The wreckage of Jungkook's car has arrived this morning at the headquarters as well, and your immediate task is to retrieve the crash data. Specialised crash sensors in the car have recorded crucial information on impact forces, angles, and speeds, which you'll need to analyse to assess the severity of the crash. This data is essential for the mechanics, who must start working immediately to ensure Jungkook's car is ready in four days for the sprint race weekend in Japan. Toto has already informed you that he wants the data discussed in the debriefing in a few hours, adding to your stress level.

As you sit at your desk, your thoughts drift back to the chaotic events of the race. Jungkook's crash and the subsequent confrontation with Mingyu replay in your mind. After the race, Jungkook underwent a thorough physical check, and thankfully, he emerged unscathed. Still, you worry about the potential impact on his performance, which you'll have a chance to evaluate during tomorrow's simulation session. You focus on extracting and compiling the crash data, immersing yourself in the technical details to drown out the lingering anxiety.

Once you finish the report, you print it, gather the papers, and make your way to the garage where the mechanics are already hard at work. The sleek, partially disassembled race cars glint under the bright lights, the smell of grease heavy in the air, and the walls are adorned with various tools and parts, neatly organised yet exuding a sense of controlled chaos. As you enter, you spot one of the lead mechanics, a man you think is named Yoongi, though everyone here calls him Lil Meow. He's hunched over Jungkook's damaged car, his hands deftly manoeuvring the wrench.

"Yoongi," you call out, approaching him with the crash data. "I have the data from Jungkook's crash. The debriefing starts in a bit, so I thought I’ll give it to you in person."

He looks up, nodding as he wipes his hands on a rag. "Thanks. Let's see what we've got."

As Yoongi begins to look over the data, an idea pops into your head. "Yoongi, hypothetically speaking, could a device be ingrained and hidden in a car that sends electromagnetic shockwaves to disturb electrical connections?"

Yoongi raises an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Hypothetically, it’s possible. It would be against regulations, though. Such a device could emit controlled electromagnetic pulses that interfere with the car's electronics. It'd be tricky to detect, but if someone knew what to look for, they might catch it."

You hum thoughtfully, processing this information. "Interesting. Thanks, Yoongi."

Leaving the garage, you mull over the idea. If Mingyu plays unfair, then perhaps you could too. The notion of using such a device to either disrupt his car or his body gnaws at your professional integrity, but the stakes are high, and the competitive edge is razor-thin. Returning to your office, you decide to keep the idea in your back pocket, a potential ace up your sleeve. The balance between ethical boundaries and the fierce desire to win is a delicate one, and you can only hope you navigate it wisely in the intense weeks to come.

In the cool, dimly lit conference room at the team headquarters, you stand beside Toto and the engineering team, surrounded by screens displaying telemetry data and race footage. The atmosphere is tense as you begin the debrief with a detailed analysis of Jungkook's crash with Mingyu. On the large central screen, you replay the critical moments leading up to the incident, dissecting every move and decision.

"From what we've reviewed," you start, gesturing towards the screen where the onboard footage plays in slow motion, "it appears Jungkook attempted an overtake on Mingyu into Turn 4. Mingyu defended aggressively, causing contact that sent Jungkook off track."

Toto nods, his expression grave. "We need to understand why Jungkook chose that moment. Was there a miscommunication on strategy? Please replay the radio communication."

You do as said, the communications during the incident echoing through the room, emphasising Jungkook's frustration with Mingyu's defensive manoeuvres. "There were clear frustrations expressed over the radio. Jungkook felt he had the pace and opportunity, but Mingyu closed the door aggressively."

Jungkook, seated among the team, clears his throat. "I believed I could make the move stick. I saw an opportunity and went for it. In hindsight, perhaps I should have waited for a better chance."

Toto interjects, "We need to ensure incidents like this don't repeat. You have to trust the team's strategy and communicate effectively."

You move to the next slide, focusing on the damage assessment. "Fortunately, the crash data indicates that the impact was primarily absorbed by the car body. The chassis integrity remains intact, which is crucial."

The chief engineer chimes in, "The initial assessment from the mechanics confirms that the car will be fully operational for the upcoming race weekend. We'll conduct thorough checks to ensure all systems are optimal."

Toto nods, turning towards Jungkook, he address him directly. "Jungkook, let's discuss your perspective on the incident and your decision-making process during that crucial moment."

Jungkook meets your gaze briefly. "I thought I had the pace to pass Mingyu. I misjudged his defence. I'll be more patient in the future."

You nod towards Toto, appreciating Jungkook’s honesty. "We'll work on refining those split-second decisions."

Transitioning to the broader strategy review, you outline the team's approach to the race. "Our strategy focused on tyre management and capitalising on the race pace. We opted for a two-stop strategy which, despite the incident, allowed us to compete for points until Jungkook's retirement."

Next the chief engineer addresses you, being the engineer responsible for Jungkook's car. "What feedback did Jungkook provide post-incident regarding car handling and performance?"

You respond, “Jungkook reported minor understeer pre-crash, but overall, the car's balance was manageable. Our focus now is ensuring all components are thoroughly checked and aligned."

Shifting focus, Toto then assesses the impact on team morale while looking around. "Given the incident, how are team dynamics holding up?"

Jungkook sighs, "It's frustrating, but we're a resilient team. We'll learn from this and come back stronger."

Turning to the positive, Joongki acknowledges George's stunning victory. "On a brighter note, George's performance was exceptional. Starting from P5 and mastering the changing track conditions to clinch victory showcases our team's capabilities."

The room lightens up with smiles and nods. George beams from his seat. "Thanks, everyone. It was a team effort all the way."

You hastily write down Toto’s next words. "But again back to the crash. To prevent similar incidents, we'll reinforce communication protocols and strategic decision-making. Clear rules of engagement between drivers and rivals will be crucial moving forward."

"Now, regarding the FIA's decision regarding the fight after the race," Toto proceeds, his tone turning almost cheerful. "Thanks to my and Christian Horner's intervention and negotiation with them, Jungkook and Mingyu won't face a ban from the next race. However, there will be a fine to be paid. This is a lesson for both drivers."

There are visible sighs of relief, with shoulders relaxing and expressions softening around the table. Engineers exchange nods of approval, while a few team members even allow themselves small, cautious smiles. Spontaneous clapping breaks out, followed by a few cheers, as the gravity of Toto's influence in this decision is silently acknowledged by the team.

Jungkook glances again to you, as if you see your reaction but averts his eyes to Toto. “Thanks, boss.”

Toto stands, offering final words of encouragement. "Let's channel today's lessons into preparation for the next race. We have a championship to contend for."

As the debrief wraps up, you hastily make your way back to your office, focused and no time for chatter.

The rest of the day passes in a blink of an eye, the quiet hum of the building’s A/C underscoring the solitude of your surroundings. You’re once again the last one working, or so you think. As you step exhausted into the lobby, ready to call an Uber to take you back to your hotel, you come across Namjoon and Jungkook standing by the entrance. Namjoon offers a quick goodbye, leaving you and Jungkook enveloped in an awkward silence.

Jungkook breaks the stillness. "How are you getting home?"

You shrug, trying to keep your tone nonchalant. "I’m taking an Uber, like always."

He frowns, clearly displeased. "It’s too late for you to go alone. I don’t want you walking around at night by yourself."

You roll your eyes, the familiarity of arguing with Jungkook bubbling up. "Jungkook, I’m perfectly capable of taking care of myself. Thank you very much."

"No. And before you start, it’s not about patronising you," he insists, his voice dropping to a softer, more earnest tone. "It's about me genuinely fearing for your safety. I can't bear the thought of something happening to you."

You sigh, frustration and a hint of something warmer mingling in your chest. "I'll be fine, Jungkook. It's just a short ride. I’ve done it for weeks at this point.”

He shakes his head, his eyes locking onto yours, the determination evident. "If something did happen to you, I'd never forgive myself. Your parents would say the same. It’s just not worth it.”

Reluctantly, you concede, the weight of his words settling over you. "Fine," you mutter, "but only because you're being so insistent."

You follow behind Jungkook as he leads the way to his car, the contrast between his towering frame and your smaller stature evident, even though you navigate in heels. Despite the footwear, you feel shielded by his presence, almost invisible to anyone who might approach. His athletic build is unmistakable—broad neck, shoulders, and arms hinting at strength, while his small waist is hidden under an oversized gym shirt. The scent lingering around him is enticing, a mix of sweat and something distinctly masculine, wrapping you in its comforting familiarity.

Reaching his car, Jungkook opens the passenger door, gestures for you to enter first, a small smile gracing his lips, his eyes warm and reassuring. You settle into the passenger seat as he takes his place beside you, the warmth of his presence contrasting with the cool leather of the car seats. The interior smells faintly of his cologne and detergent, bringing you an unexpected sense of comfort. As he starts the engine, you feel a surprising peace wash over you, his presence beside you calming your nerves. You try to swallow down all these feelings, focusing on the passing city lights outside the window.

"Do you have plans tonight?" you ask, breaking the silence, your curiosity getting the better of you.

Jungkook snorts, a bitter laugh escaping him. "With who?"

You raise an eyebrow and look at his profile. "Any of your flirts?"

He glances at you, a small smile tugging at his lips. “I thought you realised what was behind the flirting.”

“What’s there to realise?” Your tone is more snarky than you intended and you regret opening your mouth at all. But Jungkook seems not to mind it at all.

"For years, flirting has been my self-defence mechanism. Those women who fall for it are usually gold diggers. I know to keep my distance from them…like Trish."

You nod, absorbing his honesty and the subtle repulsion after he said her name, but he isn’t finished.

"The ones who are disgusted by my flirting," he continues, "are the genuine ones. Those are the ones I can befriend. Or more," he adds in a whisper, his eyes flicking to you before quickly returning to the road.

“Oh…” Your breath catches, but you can't find the words to respond. His admission leaves you speechless, and you can feel your heart thudding in your chest. Jungkook takes a deep breath, the tension in the car thickening.

"No matter what happens on track," he says softly, "I’ll never disobey your orders again. I’m sorry. We’re a team, and I need you to know that I understand that now."

Before you can react, he reaches over and takes your hand, his thumb gently rubbing your knuckles. The simple touch sends a jolt through you, making you gulp while warmth spreads from your hand to your entire body. You feel a mixture of emotions—comfort, confusion, and a deep-seated denial of what this could mean. You tell yourself it’s just a friendly gesture, nothing more.

You don’t protest, your hand remaining in his as he continues driving. The silence between you shifts, becoming something more intimate and reassuring. You can feel his strength and sincerity through the connection of your hands, and despite your best efforts to deny it, a part of you feels a deep sense of belonging.

As the car glides through the streets, Jungkook’s touch remains steady, anchoring you to this moment. His presence, his warmth, and his words blend into a quiet promise of trust and solidarity. You tell yourself it’s just the circumstances, you being lonely, the late hour, the emotional weekend behind you—but in the back of your little heart, you know it’s more. And for now, you let yourself enjoy the fleeting peace that comes from simply being beside him, his hand in yours.

After Jungkook dropped you off at your hotel last night, you couldn't sleep all night. You kept overthinking the car ride, replaying every moment in your mind. Yet, you told yourself that the sleeplessness was due to your jet lag and not because of Jungkook.

The race simulation room you're in this morning is a high-tech haven within your team's headquarters where you'll spend the next few hours. The walls are adorned with monitors displaying data streams and circuit maps of the Suzuka International Racing Course in Japan. The vibration of machinery and the occasional click of keyboards form the backdrop to your team's focused atmosphere.

Jungkook is seated in the futuristic simulator, which replicates the cockpit of his Formula 1 car. The simulator's three large screens wrap around him, providing a near-360-degree view of the track. He’s fully suited up, helmet on, and hands gripping the steering wheel with the intensity of an actual race. His focus is tangible, his eyes darting from the virtual track to the display on his steering wheel, which shows telemetry data in real-time.

You stand at the control station, a complex array of monitors and control panels before you. Each screen shows a different aspect of the car's performance: speed, gear selection, engine temperature, tyre wear, and countless other parameters that will inform the team's strategy for the upcoming race in Japan. Your headset is on, allowing seamless communication with Jungkook and the rest of the engineering team.

“Okay, Jungkook, we’re ready to start the first run,” you say, your voice steady and clear through the radio. “Let’s focus on getting a clean lap to gather baseline data.”

Jungkook nods, and you watch as he navigates the simulator's controls. The car roars to life on the screen, and he accelerates down the virtual pit lane and onto the track. You keep an eye on the various readouts, watching how the car behaves through the corners and straights of Suzuka's iconic layout.

As Jungkook takes on the first set of S-curves, you notice slight oversteer. “You’re doing great, Jungkook. Let’s try to manage the oversteer through the Esses. Adjust your throttle input a bit earlier.”

“Got it,” he replies, his voice calm yet focused.

Lap after lap, you gather critical data. Tyre temperatures rise and fall, fuel consumption rates adjust, and the balance of the car shifts as Jungkook fine-tunes his driving lines and braking points. Each piece of data feeds into the computer models that will help predict how the car will perform in the actual race.

“Alright, let’s try a few different setups now,” you suggest after a series of consistent laps. “We’ll start with adjusting the front wing angle to see if we can get more downforce.”

You signal to one of the engineers, who quickly inputs the new configuration into the simulator. Jungkook waits patiently, using the brief pause to take a sip of water.

“Okay, new setup is loaded. Let’s see how this feels,” you inform him.

Jungkook nods and restarts his run. Immediately, you notice the car’s behaviour changing through the corners. “How’s the balance now?” you ask.

“Feels better, more responsive at the front. But I’m getting a bit of oversteer in the hairpin,” Jungkook reports.

“Copy that. We’ll try adjusting the rear suspension next,” you respond, making notes on your tablet.

The session continues, each adjustment bringing you closer to the optimal setup. You guide Jungkook through various configurations, each one providing valuable insights. The simulator’s feedback is so realistic that it’s almost like being on the actual track.

“Let’s do a race simulation now,” you announce after a while. “We need to see how the car behaves over a longer stint.”

Jungkook prepares himself, taking a deep breath and settling into a rhythm. The laps roll by, each one providing a wealth of data. Tyre degradation, fuel usage, and lap times are all meticulously logged. You communicate with him constantly, advising on tyre management and fuel-saving techniques.

“Pace is looking good, Jungkook. Keep it steady,” you encourage as he maintains a consistent lap time.

The simulation runs smoothly, and after a predetermined number of laps, you call him back into the virtual pit lane. “Great job, Jungkook. That was a solid stint. We’ve got a lot of good data to work with.”

Jungkook exits the simulator, removing his helmet and wiping the sweat from his brow. A sight you appreciate even in a professional setting. He joins you at the control station, where the team is already analysing the data.

“Let’s review the telemetry,” you say, pulling up the graphs and charts on the central monitor. “We can see here that the tyre wear was pretty consistent, but we need to look into the slight drop in pace during the middle stint.”

Jungkook leans in, his scent hitting you square in the face as he examines the data with you. Flashbacks of yesterday running wild in your mind. “I felt a bit of a drop in grip around lap ten. Could be the tyre temps spiking.”

You nod, trying to snap back to the present while you highlight the corresponding data points. “Yes, the front-left tyre temperature was higher than expected. We might need to tweak the camber settings.”

The debrief continues, with Jungkook providing invaluable feedback on how the car felt at different points of the simulation. You discuss potential adjustments, comparing them with the data gathered to formulate the best strategy for the race weekend.

As the session wraps up, you give Jungkook a pat on the back. “Excellent work today. We’ve got a lot to go on for Japan.”

“Thanks, it felt good. Looking forward to the weekend,” Jungkook replies with a smile.

You watch as he heads out, already thinking about the next steps. The data from today’s session will be critical in fine-tuning the car for the unique demands of the Suzuka circuit. You and the team will spend the next two days poring over every detail, ensuring that Jungkook has the best possible car for the race.

The room gradually empties, the noise of activity dying down. You sit back for a moment, reflecting on the day’s progress and Jungkook’s magnetic pull. Even though he sometimes feels like the sun you can't stop orbiting, there's still work to be done. With Jungkook’s skill and the data you’ve gathered, you would feel confident about the upcoming race weekend, if there wasn’t Mingyu.

As you power down the equipment and gather your notes, you can’t help but feel a sense of excitement. The race in Japan is just around the corner, and with every data point analysed, you’re one step closer to a successful race weekend.

Making your way up the floors to your office, you stop by the kitchenette to fetch a coffee after the sleepless night. The day ahead isn’t over yet, and you need a boost to keep going. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the small room as you pour yourself a cup. Just as you’re about to head to your office with your coffee in hand, Namjoon approaches with a smile.

"Hey, good morning," he greets you warmly.

"Good morning, Namjoon," you reply, returning his smile.

"Got a minute?" he asks, his tone friendly yet a bit hesitant.

"Sure, what’s up?" you respond, curious about what he wants to discuss.

He clears his throat and begins, "I wanted to clarify something about the first day we met. I’m sure you heard what Jungkook said as you were leaving."

Intrigued, you nod and encourage him to continue. "Go on."

"Well," Namjoon says, a bit awkwardly, "I wasn’t looking at your butt. I was actually looking at your posture. Your left shoulder seems to sag a little bit. Do you wear your purse on that side?"

A wave of embarrassment washes over you as you realise you had misinterpreted the situation. You thought he was checking you out. "Yes, you're right," you admit, feeling your cheeks heat up. "I do carry my purse on that side."

Namjoon nods, seemingly relieved. "Would you like to do a little workout for it? I’ve got an hour until I’m scheduled with Jungkook."

You ponder for a moment, but the idea of a break sounds perfect given your level of stress and tiredness. "Sure, why not," you agree.

Soon, you find yourself in your gym clothes, which you keep in your office for moments like this. You follow Namjoon to the team’s gym, a well-equipped space designed for quick yet effective workouts. Namjoon starts guiding you through a series of exercises meant to correct your posture and strengthen your shoulder.

As you move through the exercises, Namjoon breaks the silence. "By the way, you and Jungkook don’t have to worry about me. I’m gay and dating George."

You’re taken aback, not because of his disclosure but because it confirms he noticed your earlier embarrassment. "Oh, um, thank you for sharing that," you stammer, then quickly clarify, "But just to be clear, the relationship between Jungkook and me is purely professional."

Namjoon gives you a knowing look. "I don’t believe you," he says with a chuckle. "Jungkook talks about you all the time. You’re his favourite topic of conversation. He always brings up how you first met when you were teenagers and how you couldn’t stand him."

You feel a mix of emotions swirling inside you. Embarrassment, confusion, and a hint of something else you don’t want to place. "Really?" you ask, trying to keep your tone neutral.

"Yes, really," Namjoon continues. "He admires you in a way that’s more than professional. And I can see it in the way you look at him, too. It’s mutual."

You deny it again, "Namjoon, it’s not like that." But internally, you’re struggling with the truth of his words. Memories of late-night strategy sessions, the way Jungkook's eyes light up when he talks about racing, and the fluttering in your stomach every time you see him after a race flash through your mind.

Namjoon doesn’t press further. Instead, he focuses on guiding you through the next set of exercises, his demeanour still friendly but more subdued. "Just think about it," he says finally, offering a gentle smile.

You tease, “George, huh?”

Now it’s Namjoon’s turn to blush. “Yeah, it’s still fresh,” he admits, looking slightly embarrassed. “We’re at the stage of getting to know each other. Please keep it secret for now.”

You nod, a playful smile on your lips. “Your secret’s safe with me. But if you need any advice, you know where not to find me,” you say, masking your own embarrassment.

Namjoon laughs, shaking his head. “Thanks, but I think I’ll manage. Just don’t spread it around.”

“Of course not,” you reply, still smiling. “But if I see you sneaking off, I’ll know who you’re talking to.”

Namjoon chuckles again, the tension easing.

You finish the workout feeling more relaxed physically but with your mind in turmoil. As you change back into your work clothes and head to your office, you replay Namjoon’s words over and over. You know there’s some truth to what he said, but admitting it, even to yourself, feels like opening a door you’re not ready to walk through.

The day moves on, filled with meetings and data analysis, but Namjoon's words linger in the back of your mind. Every interaction with Jungkook feels charged with a new awareness. You catch yourself watching him a little too closely, analysing every smile, every glance.

Later, as you work late into the evening, Jungkook stops by your office. "Hey, I wanted to go over some of the simulation data with you," he says, his voice as casual as ever.

"Sure, come in," you reply, your heart beating a little faster.

As you discuss the data, you find yourself distracted by the way he leans in, his focus on the screen, the small gestures that seem so familiar yet newly significant. You wonder if he feels it too, this strange tension that Namjoon has made you so aware of.

"I'm heading home in an hour. Will you be done by then? I can drive you home," Jungkook offers.

You look up at him, seeing the hope in his eyes, and can only hum in response.

"Great. I'll meet you at the lobby entrance," Jungkook says, standing up with a gentle smile that you reciprocate without thinking.

When Jungkook finally leaves, you sit back in your chair, staring at the door. You know you need to confront these feelings, but for now, you bury them deep, focusing on your work. The race in Japan is just days away, and you can’t afford distractions.

But as the hour ticks by and the office grows quiet, you can’t help but wonder what might happen if you allowed yourself to acknowledge the truth. Namjoon's words echo in your mind, and for the first time, you consider the possibility that your relationship with Jungkook could be something more than professional.

But for now, you pack up and push the thoughts aside as you head to the elevator, Jungkook already waiting for you with the same smile that leaves you breathless.

Friday evening in Japan is eerily quiet at the paddock. The day's training session had gone well, the team managing to make final adjustments that promised a successful qualifying later that day. However, a strategic error in tyre management—a responsibility that fell squarely on your shoulders—left Jungkook in P3 during the qualifying session. The sense of disappointment still lingers as you step out into the darkness, determined to salvage the weekend by any means necessary.

The Red Bull garage looms ahead, bathed in dim, ambient light that casts long, eerie shadows. Each step you take echoes softly in the stillness of the night, your heartbeat a frantic drum in your chest. Fear and determination war within you, a volatile cocktail that drives you forward. The vast expanse of the garage stretches out before you, empty and silent, offering the perfect opportunity for your second solo mission. You move swiftly, your movements fluid and precise, slipping inside like a ghost. Your eyes dart around, frantic, scanning every nook and cranny for any sign of Mingyu or his team. The air is thick with tension, but as you search, you find the space blissfully clear of any presence. With a quiet sigh of relief, you head straight for Mingyu's gear, the objective of your desire. The silence around you feels both a blessing and a curse, heightening your senses and making every sound seem louder than it is. You remain on high alert, fully aware that discovery could mean serious consequences for both you and the team.

Carefully, you pull out your phone, the cool metal a reassuring weight in your trembling hand. You activate the camera, its bright light slicing through the darkness and casting sharp, eerie shadows that dance over the metallic knobs embedded in the fabric. Each click of the shutter feels like a small victory, highlighting the unusual and illicit modifications better than the pictures you’ve taken weeks before. The knobs glint under the stark light, their presence a silent testament to your growing suspicions. Encouraged by your discovery, you delve deeper into the search, your breath quickening as you rummage through more gear, adrenaline high in your veins. To your dismay and confirmation, you find similar knobs embedded in his right racing boot. The sight sends a chill down your spine, a cold reminder of the dangerous game you're playing. But the thrill of uncovering the truth fuels your resolve, and you focus intently on documenting the evidence, pushing fear to the back of your mind.

Just as you're about to snap another picture of the racing boot, a strong hand clamps down on your shoulder, wrenching you around with a force that knocks the breath out of you. Your heart leaps into your throat as you come face-to-face with Mingyu. His eyes blaze with anger and suspicion, his imposing frame casting a shadow over you and filling the garage with an oppressive presence. His tall and buff build swallows you whole and blocks out the dim light, making you feel small and vulnerable.

"What’s a little bird like you doing here?" he snarls, his voice a dangerous, low rumble that sends a fresh wave of fear coursing through you. The menace in his tone is unmistakable, and you can feel your body tense up, every instinct screaming at you to run.

You open your mouth to respond, but no sound comes out. Your vocal cords feel paralysed by the sheer panic rising within you. As Mingyu steps closer, his towering frame becomes even more intimidating, forcing you to instinctively back away. Your hands tremble uncontrollably, making it hard to keep your phone steady, and a cold sweat breaks out on your forehead, trickling down your temples. "I... I was just..." you stammer, but the words catch in your throat, refusing to form coherent sentences. The weight of the situation presses down on you, making it hard to think or react rationally.

Mingyu's eyes narrow, his gaze piercing and unforgiving. He steps even closer, closing the gap between you with a menacing determination. You keep backing up, your steps frantic and unsteady, until you find yourself at the very edge of the garage. The cool night air brushes against your back, offering a stark contrast to the oppressive heat radiating from Mingyu's anger. "Tell me, what exactly are you doing here?" he demands, his voice a dangerous growl. Suddenly, his hand shoots out and grabs your neck, the pressure firm and unyielding. You gasp for breath, your hands instinctively flying up to grasp his wrist in a futile attempt to loosen his grip. The fear coursing through your body now is overwhelming, drowning out any semblance of bravery you thought you had.

Regret floods your mind like a tidal wave, threatening to drown you in its intensity. You curse yourself for embarking on this dangerous mission alone, for underestimating the risks and overestimating your ability to handle them. Thoughts of Jungkook, your team, and the potential consequences of your actions swirl in a chaotic storm within your head. What if you don't get out of this situation unharmed? The fear is almost paralysing, making it hard to focus on anything but the desperate hope that somehow, someone will come to your rescue. The reality of your vulnerability hits you hard, and you can't help but feel a deep sense of despair and helplessness.

Mingyu's grip tightens, the pressure on your neck intensifying as you see the rage boiling over in his eyes. "Answer me!" he growls, his voice a harsh, guttural sound that shakes you to your core. He shakes you slightly, his grip unrelenting. The world starts to blur at the edges, your vision narrowing as lightheadedness takes over. You feel your strength ebbing away when, suddenly, a voice cuts through the oppressive tension.

"Hey! What’s going on here?" Taehyung's voice slices through the air, sharp and authoritative. Mingyu's head snaps in Taehyung's direction, his expression a mix of surprise and annoyance. Relief floods through you, a lifeline amidst your mounting fear. Taehyung strides toward you with purpose, his eyes immediately locking onto Mingyu's hand around your neck, the protective fire in his gaze unmistakable.

Mingyu releases you abruptly, and you stumble back, gasping for air as you clutch your sore neck. "She was trespassing," Mingyu snaps, pointing a condemning finger at you. "Spying. That’s against regulations."

Taehyung steps between you and Mingyu, his stance solid and unyielding. "All I saw was a man assaulting a woman. You might want to reconsider your actions," he says, his tone icy and eyes never wavering from Mingyu's face. The tension crackles like electricity, a standoff between the two men that hangs in the air.

Mingyu's eyes flash with unrestrained anger, but he takes a reluctant step back. "This isn't over," he warns, jabbing a finger in your direction one last time before turning on his heel and vanishing into the shadows of the night.

Taehyung turns to you, his face softening with concern. "Are you okay?" he asks, his voice now gentle, a stark contrast to the sharpness it held moments before.

You nod slowly, still rubbing your neck where Mingyu's fingers had left their mark. "Yeah, I think so. Thanks to you," you manage to say, your voice a bit shaky from the adrenaline still coursing through your veins.

"We need to report this to the FIA," Taehyung insists firmly. "Mingyu physically assaulted you. This can't go unaddressed."

"I'm not sure," you reply hesitantly, the thought of further exposure daunting. But Taehyung’s unwavering resolve cuts through your doubt.

"It's the best course of action," he says, his tone brooking no argument. "And we won't say a word about what you were doing before Mingyu showed up."

You sigh, a mixture of resignation and acceptance washing over you. Knowing he's right, you agree. "Okay. We'll report it. But what were you doing here, anyway?"

A small, wry smile tugs at Taehyung's lips. "I had the same idea as you. But you beat me to it," he admits, a hint of admiration in his voice.

As you and Taehyung leave the paddock, the night air cool against your flushed skin, you glance at him, a new worry gnawing at you. "Promise me you won't tell Jungkook about this," you say quietly, your voice barely above a whisper.

Taehyung frowns and glances at your neck. "I’m afraid I won’t have to, it’s quite unmistakable."

The two of you walk side by side, the night’s events casting a long shadow. Mingyu's warning echoes in your ears, a constant reminder of the stakes involved.

Back at the hotel, you part ways with Taehyung, thanking him again for his help. Alone in your room, you sit on the edge of the bed, staring at the pictures on your phone. The evidence you’ve gathered is significant, but it has come at a cost. You hope that tomorrow will bring clarity and that you'll find a way to move forward without further jeopardising yourself or the team.

Sleep doesn't come easily that night. The memory of Mingyu's hands around your neck haunts you, and the weight of your decisions presses heavily on your mind. But amidst the fear and uncertainty, you feel a flicker of determination. This fight isn't over, and you’re more committed than ever to seeing it through.

“___, could you please follow me?” Toto steps in front of you, blocking your view of a raging Jungkook, who is stomping his way toward you through the paddock on this Saturday morning before the sprint qualifying begins.

You glance up at Toto, his face passive and pale, and nod. “Yes, boss.”

Following him to the back room of the garage, you notice two representatives from the FIA and Taehyung sitting by the table, clearly waiting for Toto and you.

“What’s going…” Jungkook had clearly followed you but his presence and voice are cut off as Toto, unimpressed, closes the door in his face.

“Please take a seat,” one of the representatives says, thick with an Italian accent. Your nerves flare up, but Taehyung’s reassuring smile eases them a little.

“We heard that a driver had physically harassed and injured you. Is that true?” the same representative continues emotionless.

You glance again at Taehyung, who nods, his warm smile still in place, giving you the reassurance you need. “Yes.”

“Could you name the driver who harassed you and what he did?” the other representative asks then.

Last night flashes in your mind, the fear returning momentarily as you fiddle with your thumbs. “It was Park Mingyu. He choked me.”

Both representatives note your answer down, nodding before standing up.

“Thank you very much for your statement. If it’s not a bother, could we take a picture of your neck?”

You reach up, feeling the slight swelling on your neck. The bruises, shimmering in red, green, and blue at some spots, are a reminder of the aggression you faced. Each tender spot under your fingers feels as if Mingyu's grip is still there, the phantom pressure of his hand lingering around your throat. A shiver runs down your spine, and you gulp, realising the importance of this evidence. It must be documented meticulously to ensure there’s no doubt about what happened. The thought of the photographs being taken, capturing your vulnerability and the violence inflicted upon you, makes you uneasy, but you know it's necessary. “Sure,” you whisper, your voice barely audible.

After the pictures are taken, the representatives thank you and exit the room. Almost immediately, Jungkook seizes the opportunity to peek into the room, his anxious eyes scanning for you. You realise he must have been waiting outside the entire time. The door closes softly behind them, leaving a heavy silence in their wake. Now, you're alone with Taehyung and Toto. The room feels smaller, more intimate, with just the three of you. Taehyung stands quietly beside you, his presence a comforting reassurance, while Toto's gaze remains steady and composed, though you can sense the undercurrent of worry in his eyes. The gravity of the situation hangs in the air, making the room feel even more charged with unspoken words and unresolved emotions.

“I’m glad you’re okay,” Toto says, his tone distant as he speaks. “And I appreciate your assistance.” He adds, turning briefly to acknowledge Taehyung. “It’s unusual for a rival team to intervene like this.”

“It’s nothing, really,” Taehyung waves his hand around, still smiling at you as if knowing you need this more than ever.

“Are you good to work?” Toto asks you.

“Yes, boss,” you reply, telling the truth.

"Good," Toto murmurs, his brow furrowing in contemplation. "Make sure to stick close to the team from now on, alright?"

"Yes, boss. I'll keep close," you reply, though Toto's shift in demeanour leaves you feeling unsettled.

"Good, good," Toto repeats, his voice trailing off slightly as he heads out the door. There's a visible tension in his movements, contrasting his usual composed self.

Jungkook strides purposefully into the room just as Toto makes his exit, his gaze flicking from you to your neck and then to Taehyung with a mixture of concern and anger etched on his features. His steps are quick, his posture tense as he points an accusatory finger at Taehyung. "What did you do to her?!" The words are sharp, laden with worry and protectiveness.

Taehyung responds with a laugh, raising his hands in a placating gesture while you move to stand in front of him, hoping to diffuse Jungkook's escalating emotions. "I saved Miss Dangerous here," Taehyung explains calmly, his tone light despite the seriousness of the situation. "Mingyu's the one who hurt her."

Jungkook's brow furrows as he processes the information, the tension in the room palpable as both you and Taehyung attempt to calm him down. You speak softly, explaining what happened and reassuring him that you're alright, urging him not to confront Mingyu in anger.

Later, as the sprint qualifying session is about to start, news spread through the paddock like wildfire. Teams and media alike learn of Mingyu's ban from the weekend's events, the result of his repeated violations of regulations, specifically for his assault on you. The atmosphere at the Suzuka Course is a mix of relief and lingering tension, with whispers of the incident circulating among team personnel and journalists alike, punctuated by murmurs of support and solidarity from your colleagues.

Race day arrives on Sunday, and the paddock is clamouring with media for statements about Mingyu's ban and the incident involving you. Toto steps in, shielding you from the press frenzy, urging you to focus on the impending race while he handles the public relations.

Watching his interview on the pit wall through a nearby screen, you feel grateful for a boss like him. He speaks confidently to the reporter, highlighting your skills as one of the most talented race engineers across all teams. Toto emphasises the importance of protecting women in a sport where they are still a rarity, citing the FIA's response as evidence of their commitment to a safe work environment.

Just as you start to settle into the seat, Jungkook startles you by placing his large hands on your shoulders.

“I’m sorry.” He squeezes your shoulders lightly. “I didn’t mean to startle you.”

“It’s okay, I’m fine.” You smile at him, your voice quiet.

“You ready for the race?” Jungkook shifts to beside you, leaning against the pit wall with crossed arms. He’s already in his black gear, fitting his body perfectly.

With a playful grin, you counter “It’s you who needs to be ready.”

“We’re are team. Aren’t we, babe?”

You blush at his playful persona but laugh along, realising how much you've missed his relaxed and humorous side. As the anticipation builds, you feel a sense of optimism washing over you, hoping that everything is finally starting to align positively.

The race unfolds spectacularly, the anticipation building with each lap as Jungkook skilfully navigates the track. As the final lap approaches, Jungkook's dominance is undeniable. You with the pit crew, glued to their monitors, erupt in unison cheers as Jungkook crosses the finish line in first place. The shouts reverberate through the paddock, faces full of elation and pride for the team's achievement.

With George closely following in second place, the team's success is complete. The pit lane becomes a stage of jubilation as Jungkook's car rolls to a stop, surrounded by cheering mechanics and team members. They hoist him and George onto their shoulders, their exuberance contagious as they celebrate their victory. The air is filled with high-fives, hugs, and congratulatory shouts.

Standing at the back of the crowd, you fix your gaze on Jungkook amidst the post-race celebrations. His figure stands out, exuding triumph and relief, yet there's a subtle hint of something unresolved in his expression. You observe him scanning the crowd, his eyes searching earnestly as if seeking something beyond the victory itself. Your heart races with conflicting emotions, wanting desperately to catch his attention without uttering a word.

Finally, his gaze meets yours, a brief moment that feels like an eternity. In that instance, his smile lights up like the sun itself, mirroring the warmth that spreads across your own face. The connection is fleeting yet profound, a shared acknowledgment that transcends words.

Suddenly, the realisation hits you like a thunderclap. Your expression falls rapidly, hands pausing mid-clap, the color draining from your face.

Jungkook notices the shift in your demeanour, his brow furrowing in concern, but before he can react, you pivot abruptly, heart pounding as you retreat from the scene as fast as you can.

Your only destination being away from him.

01 • 02 • 03 • 04 • 05 • series masterlist • 07

a/n 3: lmk what you think in any way you like! please send me a message, ask or comment if you would like to be tagged for upcoming chapters 💕 also - character asks and drabble requests are open

Like what you read? Check out my other work here!

taglist: @jksusawife

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codecan · 3 months

Text

List of every robot/AI character I can think of:

(Mind you it’s what I could think of , ik there’s more!!!)

Hal-9000 (2001: a space odyssey, 2010 the year we make contact)

DATA (star trek)

Bagley (watchdogs:legion)

Wrench JR (watchdogs 2)

Edgar (electric dreams)

K1-B0 (Daganronpa 3)

The majority of the Detroit: become human cast (around 30?)

Kinito (Kinito pet)

The cast of DDLC

Mother Board (cyberchase)

The majority of the cast of Indigo Park

The majority of the cast of FNAF

GLaDOS (portal 1 and 2)

Wheatley (portal 2)

Giffany (Gravity falls)

Ponco (Ace attorney)

Basil (Ace attorney)

Terminator (terminator)

Caine (The amazing digital circus)

The cast of murder drones

AM (I have no mouth and i must scream)

The majority of the cast of I Robot

PAL (Mitchells vs the machines)

The robots (Mitchells vs the Machines)

The majority of Deltarune ch2

Mettaton (Undertale)

Kronos (singularity)

Billy (Zenless Zone Zero)

The Bangboo (Zenless zone Zero)

Boothill (Honkai Star rail)

Cyborg (teen titans)

Ultron (marvel)

Karen (spongebob)

Prototype (regretevator)

Scag (regretevator)

Reddy Razbear (regretevator)

Most of every FNAF Spin off and FANGAME

Tartar (splatoon)

The singularity (dead by daylight)

Aigis (persona 3)

Codsworth (Fallout 4)

Calculester (monster prom)

Chiaki (daganronpa 2)

Sophia (Persona 5 Strikers)

Katheryne (genshin impact)

Clockwork Meka (genshin impact)

The ruin enemies (genshin impact)

Coppelia and Coppelius (genshin impact)

Astro (astro’s playroom)

Bender (futurama)

R2-D2 (star wars)

The majority of the cast of Transformers

Marvin (hitchikers guide to the galaxy)

Gir (invader zim)

C-3PO (Star Wars)

The cast of Robots

Bishop (Alien)

BB-8 (star wars)

Robocop (robocop)

Baymax (big hero 6)

Siri (the Apple ai assistant)

Alexa (the google ai assistant)

Clonco (Ace attorney)

Metis (persona 3)

Labrys (persona 4 A)

YTTD AI (your turn to die)

#watch dogs #watch dogs legion #space odyssey #star wars #honkai star rail #star trek #detroit become human #dead by daylight #portal #gravity falls #fnaf #doki doki literature club #ace attorney

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theoutcastrogue · 9 months

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Lockpick guns

youtube

"Lockpick guns, also known as snap guns, became incredibly popular in the 1960s and 1970s to quickly open locks. This rise in popularity was mostly the result of them being usable with only a relatively low degree of training. Since the height of their use, they have mostly fallen out of favor as new advances in lock design have made them less reliable.

Lockpick guns are available with either an electrical or mechanical mechanism used to generate the force needed to unlock the core. Regardless of how the force is generated, a needle is used to transfer the energy into the driver pins while the core is placed under tension with a tension wrench.

As the needle of the snap gun strikes the key pins, the driver pins can jump above the shear line allowing the core to rotate and open the lock.

For lockpick guns to work effectively, the driver pins need to be able to move up past the shear line in a single smooth motion. In older locks and cheaper models of modern locks, this is not a problem because of the lack of security pins.

In higher-end locks, binding of the driver pins becomes a much greater issue for snap guns due to the presence of security pins. These pins are cut with irregular shapes and serrations to encourage them to bind within the lock when manipulated without the correct key.

While these pins are easily manipulated with single pin picking, they make low-skilled attacks such as snap guns and raking considerably more difficult and in many cases impossible.

One of the biggest factors affecting snap guns is the shape of the keyway. As tighter keyways make it much harder for the needle to move within the lock, they will often limit the transfer of energy and prevent the shear line from being broken.

Physical space is also a concern that can limit the effectiveness of lockpick guns. As locks are often mounted awkwardly against walls, it is not always possible to access the lock because of the physical size of the tool.

Another final limitation of snap guns comes as the result of the amount of energy generated during each impact. These tools put a significant amount of energy into driver pins compared to traditional methods, which ultimately increases the risk of the lock being damaged."

tinyurl.com/4kdp77pd

#practice #thieves' tools #open lock #how to steal #Youtube

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rising-volteccers · 1 year

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Today's episode fueled me to finish part one of this totally self indulgent 'what if' scene based on episode 14 of Horizons so... -drops this and scurries back to my den-

Series: Pokemon Horizons

Characters: Friede, Spinel

Friede had his suspicions since he had Cap scare off the Magneton that caused the electrical interference. They got back communications, the kids were safe despite the no contact and they had a goal to achieve: head to Galar and seek out Liko's grandmother for more information regarding the pendant.

It didn't immediately tipped him off when Dot ran the system update before the ship could take off. After the excitement from the past several days, the kids deserved to have a picnic to de-stress and enjoy themselves. Friede too allowed himself a chance to relax after (secretly) worrying about Liko and Roy's safety. He worried for Mollie too but he also knew that she can take care of herself in the event of an emergency.

Tension once again slipped into his frame once Dot informed them of the troubles faced by the system not updating. This left them land bound indefinitely, a fact that Friede wasn't too keen on. The only bright spot was their relatively close proximity to Levincia so supplies weren't an issue.

While Murdock and Liko went shopping, Friede wracked his brain for some kind of reasoning for this oddity. He wasn't a tech whiz like Dot by any means but this kind of issue just smelled weird. It reminded him of that Magneton from before but surely…

Noctowl's alert led him to check things out. Spotting more Magneton hovering close by, it struck Friede that this might not be natural. While following after one of them without informing the crew sounded like a bad idea, he had confidence at least to deal with whatever that may happen.

Magneton led him and Charizard further away from the ship, all the way to Levincia in fact. He briefly took note of how quiet the surroundings were compared to the busier city center; it reminded him of the warehouses where he fought Amethio a second time.

They entered an alleyway where Friede swiftly realized that he flew straight into an ambush. Hopping off of Charizard, he quickly saw that their enemies were the Magneton and a Beheeyem.

Beheeyem swiftly charged up a Dark Pulse that Charizard dodged. The Magneton too prepared an attack where Friede ordered for a Flamethrower to counter it–only for Charizard to be locked in place by Psychic.

Friede looked around, quickly deducing that these two Pokemon were receiving orders remotely.

“Awfully shy, aren’t you?” he muttered, gritting his teeth at the barrage of Zap Cannons hitting his defenseless Charizard. Friede threw an arm up to shield his face from the impact of said attacks seeing that Magneton seemingly had little disregard for his presence next to its target.

Friede needed a way to turn the tables. He slipped a hand into his pocket, preparing to pull out the Tera Orb–

A soft gasp slipped out when he found himself immobilized too, limbs suddenly locking in place. Genuine fear trickled down his spine upon seeing the Beheeyem charging up what looked to be a Rock-type attack towards both trainer and Pokemon.

Charizard, in a desperate bid to protect him, managed to wrench himself free from the Psychic just as Beheeyem fired off the Meteor Beam. Friede flew back from the force of the miniature explosion, rolling a few feet till he stopped. Groaning from pain, he scrambled to get on his hands and knees, ears slightly ringing. Distantly he felt something wet trailing down the side of his head but that didn’t matter right now.

Looking up, Friede saw his trusted companion lying unconscious.

“Charizard!” he cried out, trying to reach him but that blasted Psychic locked him in place once more. Friede can struggle all he wanted but the hold Beheeyem had on him meant that he was completely at his unknown assailant's mercy. He reacted far too late; had he managed to terastalize Charizard in time, his Dark Tera Type would have given him an advantage. His partner paid the price, having taken the brunt of the Meteor Beam that Beheeyem sent their way to protect him.

"Who are you? Show yourself!" he growled, still fighting to break free regardless of how futile the action was.

His eyes darted from the Magneton that hovered to the Beheeyem still keeping him in place. It blinked out of existence–Teleport, his mind supplied. He didn't realize that the Magnemite line were capable of learning it–before returning, this time with someone he knew for certain was the person behind this ambush.

On his knees as he was, this stranger practically loomed over him once he closed the distance between them. Dressed in casual clothing and sporting glasses, nothing about him screamed hostile. He looked like any other civilian on the streets, harmless and glanced over within a sea of people. Friede knew now the reason why he was led to such a quiet part of Valencia's typically bustling city. Such a commotion had yet to garner any attention, meaning that he couldn't bet on a passerby to help him.

Friede too had no means of contacting the crew. He was well and truly alone, played like a fiddle to this mysterious person's tune.

"Who are you?" he repeated, golden eyes molten with anger, glaring at this green haired individual.

The stranger merely smiled down at him, eyes gleaming in quiet mockery. He leaned down into Friede's space, gripping his chin to force himself to properly make eye contact.

"I expected more from you. To think that this is all you amounted to." His tone, light and airy could not be mistaken for anything but derision. The grip tightened. "I can't help but feel a little disappointed, Friede."

Despite the sudden spike of fear from this stranger knowing his name, Friede's glare only intensified. "Don't know if I want to hear that from someone who played dirty."

“Playing dirty? Mm… you’re mistaken. It’s simply called playing smart,” the guy replied. “I should question the fact that you followed that Magneton all the way here, none the wiser of the obvious trap laid out. Or did you think that you could have handled anything thrown your way, thus opting not to tell your crew anything?”

Pleasant as the weather was, Friede felt chilled at the implications of his words. If he knew what he did, or chose not to do in this case, it meant that they were spied on all this while. How much did this guy know about himself and the rest of the crew? The kids? An ill feeling settled in his stomach at that thought.

He swallowed heavily, fighting to keep his angered look. Friede could not give this guy any more of an advantage over him. Gripping tight on his anger didn’t take much. He positively loathed that this stranger potentially spied on the kids aboard the Brave Asagi.

“What are you after?” he hissed out.

That infuriating smile barely shifted. A soft hum, followed by a little head tilt. He was being toyed with, that Friede knew.

“You tell me? What do you think?”

Friede’s instincts told him there could only be one reason for a hostile to suddenly engage the Rising Volt Tacklers like this. “You from Explorers? Like Amethio?”

“Hmm… I suppose with how often he failed, that wasn’t a hard leap to make. If he was going to be so blatant about it, he should at least succeed…” The stranger released his grip on his chin, taking a step back. “But that’s where I come in. To fix his silly failures and get you know what~”

Liko’s pendant, his mind supplied. Of course he was after it too. Was this guy working along or did he have his lackeys go after Liko? She should be out shopping with Murdock, a fact that he likely knew of. Murdock wasn’t the best battler with his Rockruff while Liko with her Sprigatito lacked battle experience against an opponent this well prepared.

“Don’t worry your silly little head. I’m working alone.” Friede hated how obvious his worry bled out, though wandered about the stranger’s disregard in providing information to him.

“Good to know,” Friede replied, tone thick with sarcasm. If possible, his glare intensified. “You’re not going to get it easily. No one’s letting up without a fight.”

“Goodness, of course I know that. Why do you think I went after you first?” The stranger lightly crossed his arms, finger tapping in no particular rhythm. “You’re the ace of the Rising Volt Tacklers. The best and strongest battler on board. I’ve gathered all kinds of information on you specifically, Pro-fes-sor.”

If Friede had a dislike for that title before, he downright hated the way it rolled off this guy’s tongue in an infuriating sing song like manner.

“If you’re going to mock me, drop the title. I don’t like being formal especially with you.” Vile and vitriol dripped from Friede’s words.

To add fuel to the fire, his enemy simply chuckled in response. “Hm, I suppose you do have some fight left in you. While you displayed disappointing results, perhaps there’s room to add new information still…”

Friede didn’t like the look in those eyes at all. They held nothing but clinical amusement, eyeing him as if he was an interesting subject to study. He didn’t need any more evidence to know that this guy was a genuinely dangerous threat. Friede can’t let his crew engage with him.

“I ain’t talking so don’t even bother trying,” he growled, teeth slightly barred.

“Oh, if I wanted to make you talk, I will make. You. Talk.” The guy briefly grasped his chin again, giving it a little shake before letting go. “But that would be too easy. There’s some use in you left.”

Before Friede could make any snarky remarks, the Beheeyem hovered closer at a single hand wave. Fingers suddenly yanked his hair, forcing his head up to face–

Three colored dots blinking erratically.

Ice flooded his veins when he realized what was happening.

“Stop it!”

His struggling began anew but the Psychic still kept him in place. He couldn’t even yank his head free from the guy’s tight grip. Still, Friede fought to break free because he knew what was going on. Beheeyem were known to–

“Don’t worry. You won’t remember anything about our little meeting.”

To…?

“Nothing’s going to change much. I still need data after all.”

What? Who was saying that? What… what was he thinking about again?

“Go on then. Prove to me that there’s still some worth left in you as bait…”

–

Friede opened his eyes. His neck and back immediately groaned in protest from the uncomfortable position he’d been in. Head pounding lightly, he sat up properly, blinking hard to clear away the remnants of sleep(?) from his eyes. Huh, he probably fell asleep at the captain’s chair again–

It took an embarrassingly long moment for Friede to realize that he was not sitting on a chair. In fact, he appeared to be slumped against a wall in some… alleyway? Huh? How did he wound up here?

Where was here exactly…?

#Pokemon Horizons #Pokeani #Professor Friede #Spinel (Pokemon)#Hana writes stuff #The brainworms for this particular kind of dynamic has plagued me for weeks now

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karizard-ao3 · 5 months

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Aaaaah. Coffee shop au but make it post EoE

Oooh, post-apocalyptic coffee shop! I don't read a lot of coffee shop aus, so please forgive me if I miss any tropes I'm supposed to hit upon.

So I'm thinking post-third impact, everything in the blast area must be a wasteland like the antarctic, even if an appreciable amount of people did decide to come back from goop (which, by the way, is the ocean meant to be all the consciousnesses now? Where did they go? Did they disappear to the quantum plane or whatever like Shinji did that one time?), there is no way they can survive that close to the wrecked ocean. Maybe not even in that hemisphere. Not without subsisting on canned foods and finding other ways to farm and stuff, because I'll bet the land is absolutely barren at this point. So if Asuka and Shinji were to stay there, they would have to be part of the resettlement efforts. Maybe other countries who were outside the damage zone are sending aid and stuff. I'm not sure how the city's infrastructure fared, especially with part of it being underground, but I'm going to go with they have electricity, but it's spotty, and you can't always trust the water, maybe?

Anyway, Asuka and Shinji need money and there are tourists and stuff that want to see the site of the third impact- wait. Can they both work at the coffee shop in a coffee shop au, or does one have to be the customer? Whatever. They both work there. Shinji is the barista and baker, Asuka is the waitress and acts as security, since I'm sure the government is a shadow of its former self.

Anyway, they build the coffee shop themselves from the wreckage of NERV HQ, where they holed up for a while during the early days, because I am indeed assuming NERV would have had supply stores in the case that they had to lock down for an unknown period of time.

Anyway, using what they filched from there and then the humanitarian aid crates and whatnot, they are able to set up a coffee shop. Asuka thinks Shinji's idea is absolute ass at first because who wants to go to a coffee shop when they're struggling to survive? But it turns out that a lot of people crave the normalcy, just like Shinji does. So he's happily bustling around, boiling contaminated water and finding ways to make treats out of the supplies they get. Not sure if people have money or if they trade other things, but they're getting by. Shinji becomes more confident in himself because everyone praises his culinary skills and Asuka doesn't have to compete with Shinji anymore because they have different jobs, which allows her to start to appreciate what a rare and precious blossom he is.

Maybe a customer can show up and throw a wrench in their love story until eventually Asuka takes them out. But who could this vile person be? Gendo wouldn't come back. He wants to be slime with Yui. Maybe Ritsuko? She's kind of mean-spirited and bitter. Maybe she wants to carry on the work with the Evas, as some kind of desperate bid to find meaning in life again? She's really fucking with Shinji's head, trying to force him into it. Maybe she decides the only way is to get the coffee shop shut down!!! So they have to save the coffee shop!

I don't know! I feel like there are a lot of possibilities!

#ask me things #my asks #answered asks #neon genesis evangelion #evangelion #coffee shop au #shinji ikari #asuka langley soryu #ritsuko akagi #post-apocalyptic coffee shop

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jpttools · 2 years

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#Cordless Impact Wrench #Impact Wrench #Electric Impact Wrench #Impact Wrench Kit Set #Impact Wrench with Battery #Best Cordless Impact Wrench #Cordless Impact Wrench with Batteries #power tools #jpt

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persimminwrites · 2 years

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let's talk about luthen on that bridge.

i have been thinking about (obsessing about) that scene since i first watched it. it was so impactful, so gut-wrenching, and it has stayed with me, almost haunting me.

luthen is hands down one of the most compelling, complex characters in star wars. every moment he's on screen i spend enthralled and waiting for what he will do or say next, so i wanted to break down that elevator scene with lonni a little bit to better understand why it impacted me so much.

one of the first things i noticed was there was no background score during this scene. the previous scene ends with resounding, triumphant music - then we cut to coruscant. there is some background music at the very beginning of the scene, but its's distant and soft, and as soon as lonni gets in the elevator and closes the doors, the only thing we hear is the sound design of coruscant. the stuttering rumble and jerking motion of the elevator. the electric flicker of the lights. the sound of lonni pressing the elevator buttons. lonni's breathing.

this break in music score, or the absence of it, marks this scene as starkly different from the previous scene. and even if we as viewers aren't consciously aware of the lack of background music, we still notice it unconsciously and all of this builds along with the visuals of the scene - the dim lighting, the close shots making us feel stuck in that small space with lonni - to a frightening tension when we hear luthen's voice.

one of the first things luthen mentions is lonni's daughter. he may say it in a casual manner, but it is anything but casual. its a threat. a reminder that even though they haven't spoken directly in a year, luthen knows. he knows everything about lonni. he knows his life. he knows his weaknesses.

this is also mirrored beautifully in the scene because lonni (and us as the viewer) can't see luthen. we don't know where he is. we don't know the final destination of the elevator, only a floor number. but luthen knows exactly where lonni is.

"it's not fair. you knowing. watching me. do you ever think how it might feel from my side?"

we know how it feels. the filmmakers show us by using the elevator trip as a proxy. lonni is trapped in a small space. we see close camera shots giving us the feeling of the small space. lonni is talking to luthen via the earpiece, but he can't see where he is. we never cut to luthen during this scene until the doors open, so we never see him either. lonni is visibly nervous. there is no film score to cover lonni's stuttering breath as he speaks. we are trapped in that space with lonni until finally the door opens and we see luthen for the first time.

he cuts an intimidating figure. cast in shadow. alone. covered in black billowing clothing. where have we seen that before?

now, i'm not saying that the filmmakers are trying to say that luthen is as evil as the sith or darth vader. however, we have an established connection in this universe to dark billowing clothing and evil. and i think the filmmakers intentionally clothed this character in that clothing to give a similar impact. luthen is unsettling. there is a sense of foreboding that surrounds him. and to me, this is a visual indicator (that luthen later verifies verbally) that luthen believes he is condemned - beyond saving.

"a double life? every day a performance? the stress of that? we need heros, lonni, and here you are."

when i first heard this line, i thought luthen might say 'we need heros like us' or something along those lines. but he very firmly separates himself and lonni. he draws a line and does not include himself when he speaks of heroes.

"i am condemned to use the tools of my enemy to defeat them."

he does not align himself with his enemy. he does not say they are the same. but he has debased himself, lowered himself in the pursuit of justice against a terrible evil - forced to make terrible sacrifices and decisions for the goal of a better tomorrow.

"i've made my mind a sunless place."

"i share my dreams with ghosts."

"i'm damned for what I do."

each of these lines serves to show us that luthen believes he is beyond saving. i especially love the line 'i share my dreams with ghosts' for a number of reasons. it alludes to those who have died for the rebellion - luthen dreams for them because they are no longer able to dream themselves. it makes me think that luthen believes himself a ghost. and that he believes the people surrounding him, working with him in his spy network, are also ghosts - dead people walking. ive talked before about grief in andor and how i believe that many alliance spies are constantly grieving, even the people around them who are alive. but i believe this line from luthen takes it even further. i think instead of speaking to grief, it speaks to a grim acceptance of his reality and that as long as the empire rules, everyone is dead. only freedom can give them life.

when the conversation ends, luthen closes the elevator doors with the click of a button, and the doors close like a coffin (see this post) around lonni, burying him with his vow that he took long ago - a decisive hand motion that ends someone else's life. again, i think the filmmakers are making another parallel to the sith, who we often see aligned with or governing opressive empires, without actually condemning luthen and saying he is the same. it is a comparison that is meant to unsettle us and make us wary of him. he is ruthless and uncompromising.

but he is fighting for a sunrise he will never see. he is burning his decency in the hope that someday the heroes will triumph. he has sacrificed everything so that someday the people of this galaxy will have something.

as the scene ends, we cut to the next scene, and the score fills the background, again undercutting the stark lack of score in the previous scene.

this scene so beautifully illustrates an incredibly complex character. luthen is fighting on the side of the rebels, and in so much star wars media, the rebellion is shown as a bastion for good and for righteousness, fighting against oppressive evil. it is black and white. but luthen is not good. he is brutal and he is ruthless and as he states himself he has no decency. he is not a hero. this scene puts us in lonni's shoes. we feel how incredibly unsettling working under luthen is. we understand how dangerous he is and even though he fights for the rebellion - we cant help but feel a little afraid.

#hello. this post is brought to you by my andoe brainrot. please enjoy.#luthen is just !!!!!!!! wowowow #this show has such incREDIBLE character writing i want to scream #and the dialogue!!!!!!#andor show writers send me tips for writing dialogue please and thank you #luthen rael #lonni jung #cassian andor #andor #andor show #star wars #min says #min muses

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milkstoner · 1 year

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CONSIDER. Magical boy Silver and campy villain Malleus. Think of a situation that’s like, sailor moon meets princess tutu meets utena meets sleeping beauty.

I evoke princess tutu because tell me Silver is not literally Mytho.

Like. White-haired sword-wielding soft spoken princes (ok Silver isn’t confirmed but it’s canon in my heart) who appear to be apathetic. Heroes who sacrifice themselves for what they think is the greater good. They are the same image.

The setting would be a human city. Sort of modern times. Flip phone era. We communicate through emails. I want this to have a retro vibe, but not too much.

ANYWAY, Silver, sixteen, cursed to fall asleep at unexpected times. Lilia raises him. Silver is sweet and quiet, a bit of a dreamer, but doesn’t show it… he takes ballet classes… he has a charm despite how sleepy and lost he is and has quite a few friends, like Kalim💜💜💜 who is the PERFECT sidekick i mean come on.

Silver often naps in the woods behind his school… that’s where he finds the magical sword that gives him his cute little powers <3 he has an Arthur moment of course. His animal sidekicks are based off of the three fairies from the og sleeping beauty.

He uses his newfound power to defeat… GASP… the master of all evil, Malleus Draconia, a ruthless fae prince!!! Malleus is a campy, dramatic villain, think if Dio and Kars from Jojo’s had a beautiful, sultry lovechild. He serves Elvira with his big tits almost spilling out of his décolleté. Think James from Pokémon, with his shojo sparkles and roses. Every week it’s something new with him and he never learns his lesson; also, he shows up in a new sexy cunty outfit every week. Triggering thunderstorms and cutting off the electricity everywhere, threatening to flood the city before Silver intervenes; leaving poisoned roses in incongruous places, and when a passerby touches it, they are possessed by an evil spirit that Silver must defeat; attempting to drag mobs into an abyss with his will o’ the wisp; because we’re in a magical girl setting, a lot of it is just people being mind controlled. At the end of each arc, perhaps Silver can duel one of the six overblotters, à la Utena. It’s all very normal and expected of a shojo until it isn’t.

What Silver doesn’t know is the king of the abyss is madly in love with him, and each scheme is a plot to lure Silver into Malleus’ abode so he can seduce him. Every time they battle, of course, Malleus flirts with him, and when they get close, he takes some of his hair between his fingers. Get you a man who’s willing to bring chaos and destruction to a whole city because he wants to kiss you so bad. Malleus declares himself defeated on purpose so he won’t actually hurt Silver, who thinks he’s actually won…

Sebek is, too, a magical boy, albeit his role isn’t as important. He intervenes kind of like tuxedo mask; Silver falls asleep and Sebek shows up with his shield, blocking any hit Malleus directs at them. When Silver wakes up, Sebek scolds him and yells at him to hit Malleus with his sword. They defeat the evil prince together and they both eat dinner at Sebek’s house LOL

Don’t think I forgot about Lilia, who is revealed early on to be Malleus’ minion. He is a shapeshifting fae, meaning he can give himself round ears so he doesn’t raise suspicions. At night, he tells Malleus about Silver’s day and what he does at school dggjgdjyfdkywf

Lilia: he got an A on his science assignment.

Malleus: I see… what a smart boy. Very smart indeed… naturally, I wouldn’t want my meddling to have an impact on his grades.

The pre-final boss is Malleus finally losing it and appearing as a dragon kaiju, destroying buildings etc. Silver falls asleep in the middle of the battle and his dreams transport him to the classic dream-but-is-it-really-a-dream place where he finds Lilia who now has all of his fae attributes... cue a heart wrenching dialogue as Silver realizes his father betrayed him from the very start of his life.

Begins the arc where Silver wakes up to see the city has been partly destroyed and looks like runes covered in thorns and moss. How long has it been since he fell asleep? He doesn’t know. Most of the city’s inhabitants have fallen asleep. Even the fairy animal sidekicks are asleep. He must now find Malleus and end this once and for all.

As Silver explores the ruined city, sword in hand, he fights battles against like, sentient, beastly rose bushes (a nod to alice in wonderland and the pretty sentient flowers?), sentient gargoyles that fucking throw bricks at him LMFAOO… and other eldritch abominations. He gets a vision after each battle that tells him where to go. He finds a mysterious dark door in the woods behind his school and he falls into the abyss, where he finds Malleus on his throne.

Of course Malleus flirts while Silver is panicked and shaky and angry. He even pulls Silver into his arms and waltzes around his dark gloomy castle while Silver is fucking terrified. I hope Silver didn’t think he was the hero… because in Malleus’ eyes, he is the damsel in distress. He has Silver where he wants him, in his arms… he has no shame now, whispering the most sappy words of love into his ear, talking about marrying him oh my god. For once, Silver thinks he might actually be losing this one—he doesn’t even KNOW how to undo the curse. He realizes that every battle fought so far was just… Malleus using him like a pawn. The evil prince of the darkness is much too strong, way stronger than Silver thought… he can’t even resist Malleus’ lips on his oh my god. He falls asleep once again and Mal places Silver’s head on his lap, happy that he finally has his little prince all to himself.

I want to incorporate Silver’s true origins into this. I want the city Silver lives in to be directly on the land where the kingdom from sleeping beauty once was. I want Silver’s blood to be the only thing that survived from that once glorious kingdom… perhaps some of the pieces to the puzzle would show up in his dreams. Maybe on his way to Malleus during the pre-final boss arc, he would find #the ring… and maybe everything comes together as he sleeps on Malleus’ lap.

From there, I’m imagining three routes

1. Silver wakes up and, overcome with doom, having learned his father betrayed him, and that he’s powerless before the beast that is Malleus, he attempts to stab himself with his own sword. Panicked, Malleus uses his body to block the hit, because he doesn’t want Silver to die, of course (he’s dumb). They both end up getting stabbed and they die together as a skewer while the city outside continues to decay eternally.

2. Silver wakes up and is stuck in a beauty and the beast situation. He plots how he’ll defeat Malleus, this time using wits rather than force and magic, because those do not work on him. This doesn’t work; Silver slowly learns to fall in love. Malleus reveals himself to be very sweet, caring, and romantic, and Silver, fatigued dreamer that he is, falls for him. Silver also quickly learns that there is simply no way Malleus can be defeated. He has no weaknesses. So as he softens his heart, he comforts himself by reminding himself that at least, nobody is dead in the city, and that they will be spending eternity having the most pleasant of dreams. He’s being corrupted of course. He’s questioning his duty as a hero, why he did what he did, why he simply let fate guide him.

3. Silver wakes up and, in a fit of rage, finally brings himself to stab Malleus’ heart. The evil prince put his guard down because he thought he finally had Silver… big mistake. The abyss fades away and Malleus struggles to mutter an “I love you” before he dies. Silver is back in the forest with his normal clothes on. His sword is gone. It’s over. The city still retains some damage, but the thorns are gone and the people are waking up. Fin.

The aesthetic would be very art nouveau, methinks. Bright sun, curvaceous vines and thorns, roses and may lilies everywhere. It’s surreal. Bright colours inspired by the aesthetic of the og sleeping beauty. Silver’s magical boy costume is pink, but during his transformation sequence, it flashes both blue and pink. He has a frilly blouse with a corset. The tights are essential & evoke Phillip as well as Silver’s hobby (ballet). He also has high boots with like, a 2 inch heel. The frills on his blouse have roses embroidered… his corset has lace details. He has a golden tiara just like Aurora’s. So i guess from the waist up it’s giving Briar Rose’s peasant girl attire, and from the waist down it’s giving Phillip, but make it all very pink and frilly and magical girl-esque. The hilt of his sword has a lot of detail as well, very similar to Silver’s ring from book 7.

Sebek’s magical boy outfit is similar but a lot more inspired by Phillip. He’s sage green from head to toe. He has puffy sleeves and a cape. Let’s not forget the cunty corset… the details are the same, roses and intricate lace… his heels are one inch however. Let’s not get too crazy he’s tall enough. He has tights as well duh.

Okay that’s all i think lol I’ll add more stuff to this au if inspiration strikes.

#twisted wonderland #malleus draconia #twst #malleus twst #twst malleus #mallesil #twst silver #silver twst #sebek zigvolt #lilia vanrouge

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blaiddraws · 2 years

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Whumptober day 10: Taser

technically not taser but electricity counts. anyway have an little fic.

Fun fact! I have been formally trained in emergency medical aid. but also that was nearly ten years ago, so.

any inaccuracies can be contributed to unreliable narrator, different world, and suspension of disbelief lskdjflksdjflkjf

Read under the readmore, or on ao3 at the link above

It should have been a normal day.

It was, at first.

Ingo and Emmet had just gotten off the Multi-Battle line and were directing passengers as the two of them waited for the next train. It was unusually busy for the middle of the week, packed full of people, but nothing the Subway Bosses couldn’t handle.

Ingo checked the time with a quick snap of his wrist. Just over three minutes until the next train arrived. He nudged his brother, to make sure he was aware of the time as well, and turned his eyes to scan over the crowds.

For as chaotic as the crowd was there was a certain beauty to it as well. They ebbed and flowed like water currents, small eddies at the edges, and a powerful riptide that would draw you in if you weren’t careful at the highest traffic areas.

And because of this, it was easy to spot a disruption in the current.

An unruly passenger, face hidden by a hoodie, pushing and shoving their way through the people without a care for the wellbeing of others, making a direct path towards the Subway Bosses. Ingo’s frown deepened, and he took a subtle step forward and motioned with one arm to a nearby depot agent. Expect trouble.

To his surprise, the stranger completely ignored him, stepping past him to stand directly in front of Emmet, swaying slightly. A drunk passenger, then? Their words were slurred and nearly unintelligible as they began to shout at his brother, and his frown grew deeper even more.

Emmet shot him a panicked, confused look, unsure what to do. He would normally try to talk with the person, but their words were so slurred he could not even hope to understand what they were saying.

As Ingo stepped forward, mouth opening to begin to interrupt, the passenger suddenly lunged forward, shoving their arms into Emmet’s chest and sending him stumbling backwards. He managed to catch himself before he reached the yellow line, but the stranger lunged forward again, just barely slipping past Ingo’s own grasp, and shoved Emmet further.

Ingo gave up trying to apprehend the passenger, and instead ran forward to attempt to prevent his brother from falling.

He was certain he would have reached him, if it weren't the sudden tightening of fabric around his neck as the stranger grabbed onto the back of his coat. His momentum caused him to choke, and when he felt the stranger just as quickly get wrenched away he didn’t even bother looking before he ran forward again.

He could only watch in horror as Emmet went over the edge of the platform, his own outreached arm only a moment too late to catch his brother as Emmet’s arms flailed. A moment too late, Ingo could see him attempt to push himself off the platform even as he fell, to jump past the often-fatal third rail.

The noise of the crowd was drowned out by the blood rushing in Ingo’s ears, as well as his own panicked shouting as he slammed onto the ground, barely even feeling the impact.

But the visceral, horrifying shriek Emmet made, only to be cut short by his foot catching on the electrified rail, sent a cold terror through Ingo that settled in his stomach like a rock.

As Emmet’s momentum sent him rolling over and to the other side of the tracks, miraculously pressed flat against the wall of the platform, it was all Ingo could do to hope and pray that Emmet somehow managed to survive. He could feel the vibrations of the train approaching, and as the horn blared and the headlights washed over his still-outstretched arm, he could only pull back. There was no time to grab his brother.

He was still laying on the ground as the train pulled through the station, and as it continued to move instead of stopping at the platform like it usually would, it was as if a bubble popped and he could hear the world around him again.

Several depot agents had pushed the crowd back, and Ingo could see the person who shoved Emmet being apprehended by others. Another was rushing to the main power supply, and the train finally came to a stop once it was almost fully past the platform. Giving access to Emmet’s prone body.

(“Under no circumstances should someone jump onto the tracks while the third rail is electrified. If there is someone in need of rescue, you must wait until the power has been turned off. You can’t help someone if you’re dead.”)

He scrambled back to his feet, heart racing. He could barely hold himself back from jumping onto the tracks, only until one of the depot agents gave the all-clear that the third rail was no longer electrified.

Without hesitation, he nearly leapt off the platform, skidding slightly as he landed on his knees next to his brother. His hands hovered over the man without touching him, shivering with a strange hesitation and terror.

Emmet wasn’t breathing. (He hesitated, as he didn’t want to confirm that his brother was dead.) But not even a moment later, all of his first aid training came back and he grabbed Emmet’s neck to feel a pulse.

He let out a distressed whine when he couldn’t feel anything, but refused to let himself freeze up again. He just had to hold out until the paramedics arrived.

("Chest compressions do not, despite contrary belief, artificially pump the heart. That being said, they do help blood flow in the body, even if we aren't sure how exactly it works.")

Quickly turning Emmet onto his back, Ingo placed his hands on his brother’s sternum and began to administer chest compressions. One, Two, Three, Four, pushing the chest up and down--

(“Remember, the most important thing about chest compressions is that you are helping blood flow to the vital organs. Do not be gentle because you are afraid of accidentally breaking a few ribs, as that blood flow is imperative to the person’s survival.”

Ingo, in the moment, hoped he never had to perform CPR on someone. The thought of accidentally harming a person, even if it was in an attempt to keep them alive, was nauseating.

Emmet, sitting next to him, didn’t look any better than Ingo felt, face pale and hands shaking.)

Even as he felt a dull crack, he didn’t flinch, only continuing the chest compressions for a moment until he finished the count. Without hesitation, he removed his hands from Emmet’s chest and pinched the man’s nose and went in to give him a few breaths, before immediately returning to the chest compressions.

("If you have to choose between chest compressions and breaths, choose the chest compressions. The blood flow is what gets the oxygen to your organs, after all, and filling someone's lungs with air will not achieve much of anything without it.")

He continued this cycle for what felt like eternity, yet only moments, before startling back into awareness by a gentle hand on his shoulder.

("All of this training is for emergencies only. You are not medical professionals. Once the paramedics, or other professionals, arrive on the scene, take a step back and let them work.")

He flinched, only to look up at the kind face of one of the paramedics, others gathering around Emmet and preparing to lift him onto a stretcher. He didn’t even notice the defibrillator until they were putting it away and pulling emmet out from the tracks.

Dully, Ingo let them do their jobs, though he followed closely behind as they brought his brother through the platform.

As they ushered him into the ambulance, he realized with a rush of intense relief that Emmet’s chest was moving on its own, falling from the high of his adrenaline so fast it left him reeling, almost detached from reality.

His ears began to ring, and he grew cold, only understanding what was happening as a darkness tugged at the edges of his vision. He managed to get one paramedic’s attention only a moment before he felt his head loll forward and the darkness dragged him into the depths of unconsciousness.

#whumptober2022 #no.10 #taser #electrocution #submas #ingo #emmet #pokemon #posting this on my art blog instead of writing for the sake of whumptober #writing

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koifishart · 4 months

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I want to be Your Koi Fish - special chapters

Warning: +18 content, criminal underworld, intercourse, strong language - and so on

Fanfiction based on: "Baki" by Itagaki Keisuke

>Tenko Kitsune<

As every morning, she got up fresh and well rested. Looked at her watch. It was almost 6:00. The perfect time to open the window on a cool summer morning, unfold the mat and stretch spine before the next day, probably full of ups and downs. Did she care? Rather not very much, it will always be somehow! Inhale...exhale...dog with head up...and down...half bow...bend forward...up. She heard the panels clink on the stairs - time to grease them. Sisters got up and walked into the kitchen. She rolled the mat up, put it in the closet, then pulled out a pink t-shirt, fresh underwear, light socks with a rose pattern, and dark work overalls with large pockets. In such an outfit, she appeared in children's bedrooms to wake them up one by one. They slept so sweetly: girls wrapped in quilts, boys dug up, heads in legs. However, time passed relentlessly! They all marched for clothes, only the youngest, Fubuki, rubbing her sleepy eyes, approached her, stretching out hands. She hugged the tiny body to hers to lift it up and walk to get the dress and thin tights. When everyone was ready, they heard a call from the ground floor:

- Breakfast!

Ayame may be tone-deaf, but she could cry so firmly that none of the little ones would dare delay. Although maybe they were just hungry? The dining room smelled deliciously of pancakes. Sweet breakfast! Her favorite! She helped pack lunch boxes, including her own, and when they had all eaten, split up to take the children to school and kindergarten. As soon as the joyful three flew into the arms of the tutors, she headed for the outskirts of Setagaya, to the pushed aside building of not the first youth, which she was renovating step by step, to finally become her dream workshop. Everything she renewed, did according to a plan kept improving. Fortunately, she didn't complain about the lack of customers. They were mostly women, happily accepting her approach to the client. She knew perfectly well what typical "male" workshops and control stations could look like. Yes...that was also planned. A vehicle inspection station...but for that it needed a much more modern place and she wanted to organize one. Meanwhile, it remained a slowly renovated recovered building. She always tried to be nice and helpful to all who came to her with a problem, but especially men often had problems with culture and familiarity.

True, she didn't look like a typical mechanic! A beautiful girl, long red hair, blue eyes, slim figure with strongly distinctive breasts, healthy, painted nails. More suited to a beauty salon or massage parlor, right? Optionally, maybe to the hostess in the car dealership. However, she dreamed of something completely different. She has been stealing keys and screwdrivers since was a child to tinker with grandfather's shed. Father wasn't always happy, because she often made a lot of a mess putting things down, but in the end she put it together and cleaned it up! He wasn't surprised at all when she announced that was going to be an engineer. For this occasion, he bought her own brand new toolbox along with a dream electric impact wrench for changing wheels. Was the only girl in the year, one of the few to pass and the only one with honors. She thought that with such papers, getting a job in the largest car factory was a piece of cake! Badly wrong. The owner looked at her CV and all the documentation from her studies with appreciation, but the project she had been working on for months hadn't even opened. After all, "women don't know much about cars"! He offered the position of a saleswoman, at which she, indignant, gathered her things and left without a word, slamming the door. Returning home, she strayed from the road to sit on the slope overlooking the city and think what to do next. The crazy idea came to her as soon as she turned head at the soothing sound of trees. She saw a shanty, an absolute pile of real estate misfortune...and felt immediately that must have it. She begged father for a solid start-up loan, promising to pay him back soon. In the meantime, she got a part-time job in a yoga studio as an instructor. It was worth making a few papers! In the end, it turned out as she wanted. The only thing missing was finishing the building to fully breathe. Until then, she took every order that appeared, unless the client turned out to be an exceptional rude.

She said goodbye to the woman whose tires were replaced and checked the toe-in, and, finding a temporary break, decided to put her own car on the canal. It would be appropriate to change the oil. Unscrewed the relevant parts, replacing the large bucket beforehand, and let the old fluid drain gently.

- Hello, is anyone here? - heard a call from the vicinity of the entrance to the workshop.

- I'm coming! - shouted back, coming down from the ladder.

She climbed the stairs from under the vehicle. On the doorstep was a tall man with blond hair combed in a pompadour style, wearing a purple jumpsuit and black tabi shoes. His face thinned a bit at the sight of her, but he showed some interest. Frequent reaction from men, used to.

- Heard I find a great mechanic here... - he muttered, definitely trying not to look at her breasts.

- Yes, what's the problem? - she asked, smiling radiantly. - I don't know if I'm SO great, but I'll try to help.

- That's...you, lady? - he stuttered.

- Yes. Soga Shizuka*, owner and only mechanic in this workshop. - she laughed. - You probably didn't expect it, that's understandable.

- Absolutely...er... - he replied confused, then pointed at the vehicle. - My bike is broken and the mechanic who usually fixes it doesn't have time.

- Kawasaki Chopper, EN500? Classic... - she muttered, walking to the machine. - Let's see what's wrong with him...

She reached for the keys he was giving to fire up. It had a problem at the start, but took a closer look as soon as the revs stabilized relatively. She took off a large gauntlet, revealing a tiny hand with long fingers, tipped with turquoise nail polish. Touched the bonnet.

- Behaves as if one of the cylinders has resistance. In addition, something is wrong in the ignition system. - she assessed. - I can arrange it, but won't be ready until tonight.

- And I will not be a problem waiting here? Came quite a long way... - He laughed a little and shook his head a bit. - After all, didn't even introduce myself. Shiba Chiharu.

- Nice to meet you, Shiba-san. Of course it wouldn't be a problem.

>>><<<

He drove through the city, along with several people from the gang when he heard disturbing sounds coming from the engine. They stopped in the parking lot they passed, to check where the problem was. It wasn't looking good. He pushed hair back nervously, sighing heavily, then stuffed hands into the pockets of purple jumpsuit.

- Engine, boss. - one of his subordinates said.

- It turns out... - Chiharu muttered, dialing the mechanic's number. - Do you have time to repair? My bike broke down! Fuck, just today...Okay...

- And what?

- No way. - he grunted nervously.

- Shiba-san... - Suzumoto, the bald guy, interjected. - I hear there's a great mechanic just outside Setagaya. It is not far!

He decided to check, he had nothing to lose, maybe only time. He got on the bike, trying to reach the place as quickly and safely as possible. Before he left, a few more people from the gang spoke up - they heard something, someone recommended it, nothing specific, no precise information, but at least they drew him what to look for. A partially renovated shack on the hill. In fact, the building turned out not to be of the first youth. In places it looked like was falling apart, but on the other hand it was obvious that someone had taken care of it. The walls were reinforced, windows replaced, everything painted with fresh paint... He stopped in front of the entrance and quite hesitantly got off the bike. There was a neat Mazda 6 hatchback on the canal, all silver with a delicate spoiler on the back. The interior looked promising. He had been to many workshops, most of them looked alike, and this one hadn't missed anything either, but it had something that made him ready to trust the people working in here. The problem was, he couldn't see anyone.

- Hello, is anyone here? - he called deeper into the building.

- I'm coming! - he heard a resonant voice coming from under the car.

He was surprised, it sounded like a slightly melancholic girl, not a mechanic. Completely stunned, seeing a woman approaching him. Medium height, fiery red hair tied in a ponytail, a pink t-shirt that definitely ends under the ribs, a little loose overalls with a drooping one harness and large pockets. Despite the heavily built-up work boots and sizeable gloves, he could see that she moved lightly and gracefully. She looked up at him playfully with sparkling blue eyes. The most noticeable, however, was the bulging bust that is hard to find in most slim girls. She smiled friendly, and his voice stuck in his throat.

- I... heard that I will find a great mechanic here... - he finally choked out.

- Yes, what's the problem? - she asked. - I don't know if I'm SO great, but I'll try to help.

He expected to hear "I'm calling" or "dad / brother will be here soon", and she looked like she was speaking deadly seriously. It was hard to pick up and not look at the tight pink blouse at the same time. He swallowed hard.

- That's...you, lady? - he stuttered.

- Yes. Soga Shizuka, owner and only mechanic in this workshop. - she laughed charmingly. - You probably didn't expect it, that's understandable.

- Absolutely...er... - he replied, remembering what he had come for. - My bike is broken and the mechanic who usually fixes it doesn't have time.

- Kawasaki Chopper, EN500? Classic... - she muttered, walking to the machine. - Let's see what's wrong with him...

He hurriedly fished the keys from his pocket and handed it to the girl. She took them gently, then skilfully started the engine. He watched as she watched the operation of the machine with solemnity and great calm. Shiba was in shock! The woman who unmistakably recognized the bike! She had to know at least a little bit. Took off the glove, under which she hid a delicate hand with long nails painted shiny with varnish. He wasn't sure if he could see any tiny patterns on them. The time of the verdict has come.

- Behaves as if one of the cylinders has resistance. In addition, something is wrong in the ignition system. - she assessed. - I can arrange it, but won't be ready until tonight.

- And I will not be a problem waiting here? Drove quite a long way... - he laughed nervously, finally reflecting. - After all, I didn't even introduce myself. Shiba Chiharu.

- Nice to meet you, Shiba-san. Of course it wouldn't be a problem.

She offered a comfortable couch in the office, but he preferred to watch her at work, so reached for a nearby chair. By the way, he was ready to help if she needed a little male support. Only noticed that quiet music was oozing from the speakers somewhere in the background. He was surprised that she took as a male profession. Nevertheless, the rumors of the city were true - she knew her job, skilfully disassembled the engine to look at the cylinders, and even checked a few other things that raised her doubts. Did everything with a smile on her face, as if she were having a great time. He was very impressed.

- This is quite an unusual job for a woman. - he said finally to break the silence. - Aren't you hard sometimes?

- Everyone asks me that! - she laughed heartily, tightening the bolts. - I loved DIY since I was a child, it was destiny. And that's it!

She straightened up after the final shutdown of the engine, brushed some invisible dust off her pants, and looked at him expectantly, keys in hand. He abruptly rose from his chair, knocking it over, and she chuckled at it, covering mouth with glove. He blushed up to ears as he picked up the item being served. Fired up the engine - it fired much faster than before and purred like a kitten. The sound pampered his ears, and the pleasant vibrations made him want a long ride.

- I do not know how it got there, but under one of the cylinders I found a small pebble, was so noisy, scratched the center a little. - she explained. - Lubricated as much as I could, tightened a few other parts, replaced a few gaskets... It shouldn't be a problem anymore.

- Gosh... It's better than ever! - he sighed happily.

- Bought used, right? - she asked, winking.

- How do you know?

- They don't make such motors anymore. Plus, it has a pretty old looking dent on the side, as if someone was putting off action movie chase scenes and driving under a truck! - she laughed. - If you want, you can replace it, just have to order the right part, probably also recovered, but it's worth having your mechanic check the market.

- What if...if I wanted to ask you for a replacement? - he asked uncertainly.

- Just phone. - she replied, taking a tasteful business card from her pants pocket. - We will agree a date as soon as I find a good item.

They settled the bill, and then he drove away toward the setting sun. Felt strange, insecure. As if he didn't want to leave. The somewhat repulsive place contained a very interesting person with a lot of experience and heart for what she was doing. He smirked at the mention of the red pony, then gasped.

He was sitting at home with a mug of coffee, turning his fingers over a business card decorated with a heavily simplified lotus flower pattern cut at the edge. It had been hard for him to focus on anything for several days. Every time he closed his eyes, could see red hair and a smear of grease on her pale cheek. It absolutely didn't bother him, it only added to her charm. It contrasted with an almost milky complexion and ruby lips. It was supposed to be a normal repair, and he was acting like a young man in love! He reached for the phone, tapped one by one numbers on the screen, and after a while he was waiting impatiently for the connection.

- Yes? - he heard after a few beeps.

- Soga-san? This is Chiharu Shiba... - he began.

- Oh, yes, I remember! - she laughed. - You caught me having a lazy Saturday breakfast.

- Oh, sorry...

- No problem. Are you probably calling about parts? - she asked, clearly tapping her long fingernails on the computer keyboard. - Let's see... Yeah... quite a lot of options, but most of them are corroded crap. Oh, I think I found the right one, in good shape. At second hand. Is that fine for you?

- Of course! - he said quickly, surprised. - Could I have a brief message when it comes to you?

- Yes, I'll let you know. - she replied heartily, and he could almost see her smiling.

- So... see you...

- See you soon!

She hung up. Chiharu was still holding the phone to his ear, listening to his own heart beat against his ribs.

>>><<<

As she thought, it arrived very quickly. She also expected the sweet blonde to be pleased with such a quick solution. As soon as she checked the courier, pulled out her phone to text about the package. Thought. She always liked the fair-haired boys, despite the fact that in Japan they appeared as dyed ones. She bit her lip slightly at the thought of how long hadn't been in a relationship with anyone. The last man in her life was Fubuki's father - already thought she found the right one, and when he heard about her pregnancy, said that it was probably not now, it wasn't that... She didn't even regret it, in the end there was nothing. Since then, Shizuka had used male genitalia at night weekend parties rather than looking for someone on a permanent basis.She was disturbed by the roar of a motorbike standing in front of the open garage door. Peeked out from a tiny office with a barely double sofa, a desk with a laptop, and a tiny electric kettle on the windowsill of the last old, slightly crumbling window. He got off the machine, almost falling off it, through a large bouquet of beautiful tea roses in his hands.

- What beautiful flowers! Are you going to your fiancée? - she asked with a smile.

- Oh no, it's for you, Miss... - he muttered a bit confused, lovingly hiding the blush behind the petals. - I didn't think a woman could be such a great mechanic.

- So let's not judge by appearances. - She sighed slightly, picking up the bouquet being served, then headed towards the canteen with the couch.

- In this carton against the wall there is an ordered part. Please check that everything is ok.

She found a tall vase hidden under the desk to quickly pour water into it and spread beautiful flowers inside. An intoxicating scent spread across the room. It was perfect, she loved roses. She left just as the blonde was taking the ordered part out of the bubble wrap.

- Come on, even the color is right! - she laughed sharply. - Should fit...

She was interrupted by the roar of the engine of a sports car with furious red paint. A broad-shouldered guy got out of it, that she wondered how he'd fit behind the wheel. He ruffled his neatly combed blond hair, glistening with blue eyes, Shizuka saw him once... Gaijin**. You could see it right away. He looked like he was bathing in money, but she wondered if it was some kind of cover. She was sensitive to "the rich", because it often turned out that the matter was sewn with thick threads. He approached them, treading firmly with his heavy boots. Despite her suspicions, she smiled as used to greet a potential client.

- I'm looking for the owner... - he muttered, barely glancing at her. - ...of this place.

- Yes, can I help you? - she replied calmly.

- I need an oil change now, the engine is working poorly, there was no time before. - he blurted out hard.

- I'm busy at the moment, you'd have to wait about an hour.

- We don't understand each other, Miss. - he grunted, approaching her. - NOW.

Bull's-eye. The more nervous he got, the more European accent she felt. Hanabi would probably recognize immediately what country the guy comes from. She wasn't in the habit of allowing such treatment in her garage.

- Well, well, buddy, with respect to the woman! - Threw blonde in purple overalls, standing a step in front of her, looking at the newcomer sideways. - Someone lacked culture!

She smiled under her breath. Didn't think he would react like that. Shiba-san was really cute! She approached them, wanting to cool down what the owner of the car intended to use. She caught a hand rushing to her neckline in flight, deftly twisting it, thus turning the man with back to her. He couldn't move, surprised and grounded by his own body.

- I'm sorry, but we are unlikely to get along. - she sighed, leading him out the gate. - Goodbye, you will surely find another mechanic.

She pushed the bulky guy twice her size firmly towards the lush red car. He turned to face her, and she honored him with a hearty smile with a hint of triumph.

- We'll see... - he snapped at her.

She wasn't going to hear what supposed to see. Pulled the lever, lowering the tin door of the workshop with a crack. Darkness fell, rays falling through the windows. She distracted it by turning on the lamps hanging from the ceiling. Sighed heavily as she straightened her voluminous pants.

- Are you okay, Shizuka-chan? - The blond asked agitated, and when he registered what said, he blushed to the tops of his ears.

- All right! - she laughed heartily. - Chiharu-kun...

For a moment he looked as if he hadn't heard, but it was enough for him to burst out laughing too. She pulled on massive leather gloves over slender fingers adorned with turquoise lacquer. Time to replace a few parts!

>>><<<

The bike looked better than after a major renovation, which it received right after the purchase. He wanted it to have its own individual character, to show that it was HIS machine. After all, the Tokkutai gang boss has to present himself! That day, they were betting on the building where Hanayama was making a deal. He hadn't asked for anything for a long time, this time it looked like he wanted to use the size of a gang of motorcyclists to block the nearest streets. The only one left, where Shiba and his most faithful companions stood, at the very entrance to the building. The biggest bull of the underworld should have a suitable road and it was he who decided to guard it. He watched the neighborhood proudly as a gleaming turquoise and black racer sprang out around a bend and onto the exact street. He had seen them, Shiba was sure, and yet motorbike didn't slow down. Shiba wasn't going to dodge, even if he was going to die. The driver in the black suit screeched to a halt and the rear wheel squealed wildly and parked parallelly just below his feet. It boiled in the man. You have to be the last idiot to put on a circus like this!

- Who gave you your driving license?! - he snapped at the motorcyclist. - Watch your ride, dude!

- Gee... I'm sorry... - he heard a rather high voice, muffled with a helmet. - Next time I'll be careful.

Confused, he watched as a storm of loose red hair fell out from under removable hat, framing a pretty face with sparkling blue eyes. He was incredulous, though trying to juxtapose the woman in front of him and the one with the lush pony...he was getting the same person! Had to recover, he was among his people!

- S...Shizuka-chan? - he finally gasped out.

- Oh, you didn't think I was running all day in baggy overalls with a socket wrench in hand, Chiharu-kun! - She laughed pearly, then asked a bit more seriously, puffing lips a little bit and looking from under her almost closed eyelids. - Are you going to stay here a little longer? I cannot take a helmet with me, and it is extremely important to me! I would like to leave him under loving care...of course not for free.

- Er, sure, it will be safe with me! - He blurted out immediately, combing his mane back.

- Oh, that's wonderful! - she threw happy.

Shizuka gave him an exceptionally light, well-built and very aerodynamic helmet, only to reach the zipper at the neck after a while. She was going to undress?! On the street?! Before he could react, heard the clink of teeth. She unbuttoned the jumpsuit to the ankle and emerged from it in a lovely, beige dress speckled with tiny flowers, decorated with a cross tied, imitating a corset. Even motorcycle boots, as it turned out, strongly built-up for a reason, hid semi-transparent high-heeled shoes tied with a tulle ribbon. She lifted the speedseat's seat, where she stowed her purse to tuck the suit into the empty space. She surprised him more and more every moment. She slung the leather strap on shoulder, waving so sweetly at them it almost melted with joy.

- Bye, shopping is waiting!

She walked away briskly, tapping heels and rocking hips rhythmically, incredibly sexy. All she left behind was a cloud of rose perfume, which had just been rising from her neck. He swallowed mechanically.

- Boss...how does the boss know such a beauty? - Suzumoto asked.

- This...this is my new mechanic. - stunned, he muttered in response.

>>><<<

She promised them a weekend shopping trip and kept her word. Happily watched the two dark-haired little angels rummaging between the hangers. A third cherub, red like her, clung to her skirt. Fubuki was like this from birth. She fondly remembered that birth. The little one clung to her at once and wouldn't let go, greedily sucking on her breast. The midwives laughed that the boys are usually "mommy's tits", and here is such a surprise. After shopping, they sat down by the fountain to let the kids play on the small playground in the middle of the mall. She watched the joyful girls, cooperating on the ladders. Their lives often lacked this carefree, so whenever she could, wanted to offer it to them in the highest possible dose.

- Shizuka-chan? We've been seeing a lot lately! - she heard a familiar voice.

A tall man with blond hair combed in pompadour style stood in front of her, this time in a slightly less "gangster" outfit - he chose elegant shoes, dark jeans and a flowery shirt.

- Oh, I guess it is, Chiharu-kun. - she replied with a smile.

She felt a tug of trailing fabric against her lap. The tiny redhead cast a curious glance at the standing man, at the same time demanding her attention.

- Can I get ice cream? - she whispered. - I can?

- Of course, honey. - She replied, handing the banknote to the running older girl. - Just not too much, or your throats will be sore.

She watched them run off to a nearby ice cream shop. Fubuki jumped to pick a flavor while the other two tried to lift her up to see anything.

- Ms. mechanic is a baby-sitter? - Shiba asked, sitting down next to her.

- No no, these three cuties are my daughters. - Threw with a radiant smile.

She saw that surprise on his face a lot, from the beginning, in fact. Could it be that incredible? Is it really so strange that a single mother of three has her own business? Who knows, maybe...

- I must have slightly disturbed your view of me? - she whispered aggressively, still smiling, leaning in slightly. - Maybe you even think I'm slutty and irresponsible? If you want, you can think so. I've always wanted a bunch of kids. I was looking for good stud dogs and found them...and that they were irresponsible assholes was another matter.

- Girls don't have a father?

- No. "I got" chromosomes from two, but I wouldn't call any of them the father of the children. - she answered innocently. - If a man capable of being my partner comes across, I will introduce him to them.

- What if you don't find it or he'll be scared of the kids?

- Hmm...nothing special. - Shizuka threw after a moment of reflection. - I don't need a man to function, I'm a strong and resourceful woman. The only husband I can consider is support, not the master of the house. If he's scared of my kids, then he's inappropriate.

The girls finally managed to buy delicacies, they sat at the table licking sweet balls. She didn't want them to get hurt. The man they call their father must have been a good man. Another was out of the question. Hyo***, Arashi**** and Fubuki***** were worth the effort.

>>><<<

The sight of his sister-in-law somehow could not leave him, despite the fact that he and his wife were sitting on the leather sofa at home for a long time, sipping slowly non-alcoholic wine. If not for Hanabi, he would not have been persuaded to take this type of drink - red whiskey is a love he didn't talk about...or maybe it just entered the blood and that's it? The red liquid with an extremely fruity aroma tasted completely different, certainly even in the full version it had significantly less percentages than the Wild Turkey. She snuggled against his shoulder as she always did when they had a moment to themselves. He stroked the shaved part of her head with free hand, playing with the single strands that wanted to fall on her forehead. She had already taken off her tie and loosened the collar of red shirt enough to let him see a subtle foretaste of what was hidden under it.

- You called your sister, right? - he asked finally.

- Yes of course. I talked to her shortly after you showed me this "miracle on wheels" - she replied bluntly.

- How is she like?

- How do you feel about her, Kaoru? - She answered the question with a question, looking at him searchingly.

He thought. Didn't really have much to say on that point. Only saw her a few times, they didn't talk often. What could he think of her?

- Seems to be a typical woman, who loves shopping and spending money on herself. - he said, shrugging his shoulders.

- Shizuka has always been quite...phlegmatic, and positive about life. - she laughed. - She looks cute, trendy, but loved to rummage in machines since she was a child, took everything she could apart and folded. Father didn't quite like her adoration because she was making a lot of a mess around her. Mother preferred her to paint her nails instead of playing with grease...

- And Grandpa? - he hinted, remembering the strange old man.

- Grandpa saw a specific potential in her. He trained us in harmony with the circle of life, according to the corresponding elements. I am air, she is water. The...hmm...streamlined fighting styles fit her perfectly.

- Interesting theory.

- Right? Until now, I don't know how he thought it up and fitted it, but it worked! - she replied. - In fact, Shizuka is a pacifist, she doesn't like any kind of violence. "Peace & Love" and these matters. It is enough, however, to properly get her under skin to dig up everything she learned and effectively pacify the opponent.

He tried to imagine such conditions. It didn't fit the offensive version in any way. She was too sweet, delicate and so...maximally stereotypically feminine. He felt a small hand creep under the unbuttoned button of his purple shirt, to his taut shoulder to gently massage it. She wasn't going to let him drift in that direction...

>>><<<

She threw the skirt of a colorful summer dress, turning to the mirror to check the tying of the braid with a woven ribbon wrapped around her head. She finally had time for her weekend getaway. She was going to wander slowly through the drugstores, leafing through nail polishes and fancy bath accessories. Maybe she will find a nice, aromatic sparkling ball? What if a jeweler...? It makes sense to add something new to the casket from time to time. She listened to the cheerful clatter of her own sandals on a high post when she noticed a pair coming from around the corner. He was in a perfectly cut white suit and purple shirt, with raven hair scattered by the wind, she was dressed in light shorts with a row of buttons at each pocket, a coral elegant blouse, with her feet in simple wedge sandals in front of her. Black locks flew slightly against the face. She did not expect to meet sister and her husband! His people were hanging around nearby, as well as...a familiar blond man in purple jumpsuit. She wondered if it was a faux pas if they found out they knew each other.

- Come on, a twist of fate, Hanabi-chan! - she chirped.

- Shopping? - asked the younger one.

- Like every month!

A strong arm caught her in half, and then another, placing massive hand over intricately woven braids prevented her from unfolding the sentence. The touch felt strangely familiar. She hadn't had much contact with it, but the rough, thick skin was like someone she had dealt with recently. She had a glimpse of the corner of her eye as he brought his head close to her shoulder. Apparently he was more interested in her brother-in-law than in her. Blond, fair-eyed, proud expression on his face. She saw Shiba standing behind the young boss's back clenching his fists nervously, bristling all over his body. He also recognized the "owner" of the red sports car. Gaijin.

- I felt like you knew each other...Hanayama... - he muttered, then laughed lowly. - The cutie is going to pay for the last treatment you treated me?

- ...what?... - Hanabi muttered, looking at her husband.

- I didn't accept his challenge a long time ago. - the man replied, unbuttoning the buttons on his jacket.

- And the percentages are rising. - drawled her tormentor, tightening his fingers a bit on the red hair. - It would be a pity to break her neck, she's pretty...

- Sorry, it doesn't seem like a good idea. - she demanded, turning her eyes towards him.

- It's not up to you. - he growled, tilting her head closer to the shoulder.

- Oh, if you say so... - she sighed disapprovingly.

She took a deep breath, then let all the air out of her lungs to compress her body as much as possible, and slip out of iron embrace. The man with a European accent stood completely taken aback. She brushed off her dress gently, then launched a solid roundhouse kick right into the center of his face. He took the full force of the blow, twisted a few dumbbells on the sidewalk, and finally lay flat on his back. She turned and caught the startled glances of the men behind her and her sister's thumbs up.

- Nice! - Hanabi said triumphantly.

- Oh, gentlemen, I am not whipped! Don't mess with the Soga family. - The redhead laughed, and then turned to the slowly rising blonde. - You underestimated your opponent, little boy.

He was staring at her, definitely pissed and eager to retaliate, but a dull crunch of Hanayama's knuckles was enough for him to let go and run down the alley. Shocked, Chiharu stepped forward, apparently wondering what to say. Black-haired girl sensed the situation in flight. She pulled her husband and his men away, waving her goodbye. Shizuka laughed under her breath at the sight. It was amazing how easily Hanabi could get along with a guy like Hanayama.

- Er...Shizuka-chan... - the blond man standing next to her began.

- Yes?

- Would you like to come out to dinner with me? - he asked, blushing slightly. - I know a place where they prepare the best Peking duck.

- Unfortunately it's not good idea... - She replied a bit confused.

- Oh...sure, I understand. You probably don't have time...or something...

- No, no, that's not it! - she laughed. - I just don't eat meat, I'm a vegetarian! But I love tofu ramen!

- Well...let it be ramen! - The man laughed, gallantly letting her go ahead.

______________________

Tenko Kitsune - http://yokai.com/tenko/ ; mine Tenko is dark-blue only because of element (water) which I want her to have;

*Shizuka - [jap.] calm

** gaijin - [ jap.] foreigner

***Hyo - [jap.] hail