#File this personal info into an investigator file

[ratgrinders]

Ok here's an updated timeline of the Rat Grinders based on the new info we got this episode:

Freshman Year

On the first day of classes Kipperlily and the others meet and form their adventuring party. Kipperlily comes up with the name the High Five Heroes.

Kipperlily excels academically, but the High Five Heroes only go on easier adventures, presumably to ensure they will succeed rather than fail at something challenging.

Ruben is primarily an acoustic/soft rock musician.

Kipperlily begins to have childish rage and resentment towards Riz and the other Bad Kids, which start out petty but gradually grow in intensity over the next couple years.

Sophomore Year

An increase in hostility, one of the first meetings Kipperlily has this year is being jealous that Riz's dad was killed by Kalvaxus, that if a person has suffered immense magical hardship it is an unfair advantage in adventuring.

Kipperlily tries to find evidence of conspiracy with her parents and is enraged that they are boring.

A week after spring break the High Five Heroes go on their first quest to the mountains of chaos, chaperoned by Jace Stardiamond.

After this, the High Five Heroes seem to undergo a shift where their rage is amplified. Kipperlily's counselor files become much more venomous towards the Bad Kids, Ruben shifts to emo music, etc.

At some point after this Ivy and Oisin propose changing the name to the Rat Grinders. Kipperlily opposes this and Lucy is on her side, but Ruben votes against her because it makes her upset and Mary Ann also votes against her but doesn't explain her reasoning.

A piece of paperwork is submitted for Lucy to change her god, but another piece of paperwork is filed afterwards rescinding that application, presumably by Lucy herself changing her mind.

Towards the end of the year, after grades are finalized but before classes are over thus avoiding the pass/fail penalty, Lucy dies in the far haven woods near Aguefort. Presumably, she could have been resurrected in service of this unnamed rage god, but chose not to. She "stuck to her guns".

Kipperlily's rage towards the Bad Kids has transitioned from childish to venomous, she "hates them".

Junior Year

At some point between the end of Sophomore year and the beginning of Junior year, the Rat Grinders specifically request Buddy Dawn join their party as a cleric.

At 8:01 am, the first day of classes, Kipperlily goes to Ashgrove to dig up the rogue teacher's grave, thus forcing her to reveal herself and granting Kipperlily a pass for all her rogue classes for the year. Presumably she was aware of the rogue teacher's grave beforehand (information only available in Arthur Aguefort's office) but waited until the start of Junior year so she could pass all her classes for the year.

Kipperlily announces her bid to run for student council president, with a platform based on equity, equanimity, and fairness.

Kipperlily asks Jawbone about the creation of Yes! and the events of prompocalypse

Her counselor notes become extremely enraged, with her straight up wanting to kill Kristin and being angry that she can't get to her thanks to Fig's protection.

Oisin, Ivy, and Buddy are seen at Fabian's house party during the first week of classes. Kipperlily is not seen but is possibly there invisible. The Bad Kids are asked to do drugs but decline. That same night, mephits steal part of a cloud rider engine kept in Seacaster Manor.

At the school assembly the following day Principal Grix reveals he was notified of students doing drugs off campus, meaning its possible the Rat Grinders tipped him off in an attempt to get the Bad Kids in trouble.

Ruben performs presumably some kind of ritual at the Frosty Fair Folk festival, with the other Rat Grinders conspicuously absent. Simultaneously, Yolanda Badgood falls dead in the same place where Lucy Frostblade died, after Yolanda had been made aware of Lucy's change in god and was investigating it. Yolanda also refuses to be resurrected in service of the rage god.

The Rat Grinders are seen at the assembly addressing Yolanda's death and how all clerics would be moved to pass/fail. Most look bored, Mary Ann isn't paying attention, and Buddy is unconcerned.

Kipperlily and Oisin get caught trying to sabotage the Bad Kids' Last Stand exam, and Kipperlily kills Buddy. Ten minutes after the Bad Kids plane shift away, Buddy is revived by an unknown figure and he pledges his allegiance to the rage god.

Now the Rat Grinders are scheduled for another trip to the Mountains of Chaos and are on complete lockdown, hiding all of them from Adaine's divination magic.

[luveline]

helloooo, how are you? i’ve been rewatching criminal minds and i finally got to the post-prison part, so i’m really missing shy!r and post prison spencer <33 if you’re felling up to writing something for them again, i would love to see it!! maybe when they kiss for the first time or something else (completely up to you, i would love anything that you write hahah) but if you’re not really feeling it at the moment, please don’t worry about it, it’s so understandable 🩷 have the best day!!

ty for your request I love first kisses <3

Spencer takes you for a walk and explains a couple of courting rituals. shy fem!reader, 1.5k

Profiling is still very hard, but seven months into your new job at the BAU, you’ve become proficient in Spencer Reid. You can tell when he’s eager to work, when he’s down about something, when he’s feeling good. He holds himself differently on his good days, he takes care to coil his hair and wears a clean pair of shoes. 

In the bullpen, he’s sitting at his desk beside yours, craned over a desk covered in loose papers, books, and files. You attempt to hide your approach, lest he startle. 

“Good morning,” he says. 

“Good morning.” Can’t hide anything. He’s been an agent for ninety percent of his adult life. “What are you doing?” 

“Just reading.” 

You sit at your desk, clearing a space for your bag among your own mess of files and books. Your monitor turns on with a nudge of the mouse. Your screen is filled swiftly by notifications and Outlook, then the FBI messaging system, and then the ‘filing cabinet’ Garcia built to help you understand the insanity that is the BAU online system. It submerges you every morning regardless. 

“What are you reading about?” you ask. Your emails can’t wait, but you don’t want to read them, so you won’t for another ten minutes. 

He stumbles over a breath. 

“Spencer?” 

“It’s courtship rituals.” 

You regret asking. Whenever you and Spencer talk about feelings, or love, or romance, you end up hot as a kettle on a stovetop, steam billowing from your ears. You choked on a mouthful of lukewarm tea a few days ago when he’d mentioned America's developing hook-up culture. 

He doesn’t tell you any more, which is unlike him. Spencer Reid loves to talk, or loves to share what he’s learned. You looked it up —it’s called info-dumping, and it’s usually because the person telling you is so deeply fascinated by the topic they’re investigating that they can’t contain it. It’s a common symptom of ADHD, or autism, or both. Spencer’s done it since the day you met, which is nice. You feel like he trusts you. 

And so you’re wondering now if you’ve done something to make him think he can’t do it today. Or maybe he’s not feeling well. 

You prop your face in his hand and watch him. 

He doesn’t look upset, only focused. 

You hate quiet. You love not talking, but gaps of silence have you overthinking things. Maybe he’s mad. Maybe you’ve finally pissed him off. 

It’s scary because he’s amazingly kind. Overwhelmingly nice. He’s lovely and good looking but it’s his heart that shocks you every time, how he’s looked after you, defended you.

“Spencer, are you okay?” you ask. 

He blinks to attention. “What?” 

“You’re not talking.” 

He grins. “I’m thinking.” 

His smile when he looks like he’s about to laugh is everything. 

“Don’t think too much,” you say as you play with a button on your coat. “Isn’t that what you always tell me?” 

“Don’t think too much because you think about things you don’t need to,” he amends. “You worry about everything.” 

“Well, so do you.” 

“Exactly. I’ll worry enough for you, too.” Spencer gives you a smile you don’t understand. “Will you come to the archive with me? I want to talk to you about something.” 

“Spencer…” He just acknowledged that you worry about everything.��

“Sorry,” he laughs. “Something with no pressure. I’ll explain it as we walk.” 

You shed your coat and walk together out of the BAU offices down a long hallway. You take the elevator down to the ground level, spring air in the hallways, early morning sunshine lapping at your shoes where it’s settled golden against the marble floor. Spencer professes that it’s nothing to worry about again, but he doesn’t elaborate, and your heart begins to pulse too quickly. 

You can’t look at him. 

“I’ve been reading about these courtship rituals and… looking at which ones are the best. There are thousands of them, but contemporary courting isn’t easy. It confuses me. With my last, my only girlfriend, we wrote each other letters. But I wanted this time to be different, because– because love is different?” He grimaces. 

“Love is different,” you agree. You’re not sure who he means, your chest panging in two different beats. Is he… talking about you? “It’s different every time.” 

“I was looking for the more subtle rituals. I kept thinking I’d find the right one, and that I’d know it when I saw it, but I can’t find anything suitable and I might need your help. Um, if you even want to help me.” 

“Of course I do.” 

Spencer slows just outside of the archive’s door. “Everything I read about feels like it would just embarrass you. I picture buying you flowers and I feel like you’d just– just explode.” He says it with affection and apology alike. “I wrote you a poem. Emily told me not to give it to you, though.” 

“You wrote me a poem?” 

“I made you a love spoon, too, but I can’t whittle, and it looks terrible. I even cut my hand, and if you rejected me you’d have to give the spoon back and I think that would make it worse.” 

You turn completely still. The last thing you expected that morning was for Spencer to confess. And he is confessing, a small smile on his face, patience, nervousness, close enough to feel the heat of him beside you. You short circuit in an attempt to compute the magnitude of it; Spencer wants to court you, and you can’t handle it. 

Your exhale shudders out of you. Goosebumps attack your arms. 

“Sorry,” he says quietly, “are you okay?” 

“Spencer, I don’t think you could ever find a way to tell me that wouldn’t make me feel like this.” 

“How do you feel?” 

“How am I supposed to feel?” 

Spencer’s smile fades a touch. “I don’t know. You can feel how you want to feel, it isn’t up to me. But I have feelings for you. I thought you knew.” 

It’s like knowing that the lottery numbers were chosen specifically to match your ticket. The thing he’s talking about doesn’t make sense. 

“Are you kidding around?” you ask. 

“What? No.” He holds your wrist gently. “Of course not.” 

You swallow a lump and try not to overreact, though you’re already doing that. This is a good thing, it is, but he’s him and you’re you and every time he touches you it’s like fireworks are bursting warm and tingly over your skin. You smile at his chest, cheeks dimpling from how wide it stretches. 

“You don’t have to court me, um. Not in any way like that. I’m just like every other girl, you know? I like flowers. I,” —your cheek lists down toward your shoulder bashfully— “probably would feel a little embarrassed, but I like flowers. I can get you flowers.” 

Spencer really laughs. “You want to get me flowers?” 

“Maybe?” 

He laughs again. His eyes lock onto you and his open hand closes on the opposite arm, putting you face to face. “It was my idea,” he says, playfully argumentative. 

“Okay.” 

“You want to hear the poem?” he asks, quietening again. 

You nod slowly. “N’I wanna see the spoon.” 

“Can I please kiss you?” He takes a breath, like he’s been running. “I know this isn’t the right place, but I didn’t expect to want it this badly.” 

“I don’t think there’s a wrong place…” 

“So I can?” he asks, lifting a hand to your cheek, to hold you with care. 

You nod into his approach, find yourself kissed and held tightly in a split-second of warmth and warm smells. His nose touches yours in a kiss of their own, his lips part lightly before pressing in again. Two kisses lend to a third, but then he pulls away to look at you. As quickly as it started, it’s over. 

“You're overheating already,” he says, thumb rubbing a sweet path under your cheek. 

You don’t know what to say. He ducks his head just that little bit to make sure you’re okay. Understanding flows between you both. His hand falls behind your back to pull you in for a hug. 

“I’ve never been the confident one in any of my relationships,” he admits. 

“I usually am.” 

Your deadpan lights him up. His hug turns strong armed, and he walks you back, giggling, arms a comforting vice around you. “You can be the shy one this time,” he says, seemingly unaware of how his using the word ‘relationship’ has thrown you for another loop. 

You’re hot as a furnace all morning. Spencer makes excuses for you, but Emily’s amazing at her job. 

“Jesus, Spence, you didn’t read her the poem? I told you it was too much.” 

[eloise-t-g]

i think for me, the watcher situation comes down to this:

it's absolutely respectable that the watcher team wants to grow and produce better quality content. it's respectable that they don't want to stagnate and end up pushing the same content out over and over again. that's not satisfying for them creatively, i get that.

however, if higher quality, more heavily produced content is not what your fans are asking for, then you can't ask them to fund it.

this all-or-nothing method they've gone for is frankly bizarre. it feels like they leap-frogged all other alternatives to improving their finances and ended up here, alienating and frustrating the majority of their fanbase (the fanbase they thanked for getting them to where they are).

i think this could have gone a lot better if they:

Hadn't hyped up this video for a week.

Hadn't announced the worth it successor just beforehand.

Hadn't put out a wishy-washy, "boo hoo we're so sad about this", over-produced video.

Hadn't made it $6/month (more in a lot of countries given exchange rates).

Had considered that this means fans in specific countries literally cannot pay for the subscription due to geo/region-locking.

my ideas for improving their funds, aka things they could have tried before blowing their brand up: create their own website with two options - a free version with ads and a paid version without ads, OR make better use of their patreon/make their website extra content, not all their content, for example:

Put the ghost file debriefs on there.

Put shows like survival mode on there (or even shift that show from pre-recorded video to live-stream - live stream access to patrons and VOD access to everyone, maybe).

Put episode commentaries there.

Do reaction videos to their old buzzfeed content, talk about memories and BTS, and put that there.

Put one/two episodes of each show, per season on there (and ONLY there).

Put the episodes up there a few days early.

Make specific, website only content (that's not your main and most popular series aka ghost files and puppet history).

Record the live, in-person shows and put those VODs up there.

EDIT (thought of something else lmao): put extended or even uncut versions of ghost files on there. Paranormal Detour on Detune's twitch channel has shown that people will willingly sit through 6+ hours of a ghost investigation.

EDIT: idk, do livestreams once a week where you watch scary movies with fans on discord or twitch.

(side note: the fact that they're not taking down their patreon and instead shifting all of their podcast content on there, something the patreons who have been loyally giving them money for years didn't ask for, is ridiculous and greedy. add to this the fact that they don't even get a free sub to the new website, instead get 40% off - a measly 10% more than anyone else who subs before the official launch).

the thing for me is that they're claiming they want to make "television" and "television-grade content". that's completely fine. what's not completely fine is acting like your four episodes a month is equal to netflix's entire catalogue.

this really felt like it should have been something they told us they were progressing towards, not something they revealed to be on the imminent horizon. idk, it just feels out of nowhere. no, they don't owe us all of the info about their company. but something had to be better than this.

final thought - it's okay and valid to be upset at the team for this. for a lot of people, it's a complete betrayal (especially the comment that $6 a month is something "anyone and everyone can afford", i mean yikes). i do think some people's anger got the best of them, and some of the comments i've seen across youtube, twitter, and tumblr are plain bullying, racism, and harassment. until we have the whole story, we can't decide that one founder (aka steven in a lot of people's minds) is solely responsible. i know a lot of these awful things are only coming from a small minority of the fandom, but they still get seen.

at the end of the day, all three of them got up in front of a camera and made this video, together. that can only lead us to the conclusion that they made this decision together. acting like these men in their 30s couldn't stand up against it if they truly wanted to, is so strange and parasocial lmao.

tl;dr there were much better ways of going about this announcement, if it even needed to be made at all. however, that doesn't excuse the hateful shit being spewed at the team. for now, all we know is the three founders decided they were done with youtube, and done with their loyal youtube audience.

(i have so many more thoughts on this but i need to stop lmao. however i do wonder how different things could have been if 1. they had hired someone with actual business experience as their CEO from the jump, and 2. this video was more of a "hey we're broke! this is a last-ditch effort to save our company!". guess those questions will remain ... well ... you know ...).

[bradshawshawaiianshirt]

Stuck on the Past | Part 2

Bradley 'Rooster' Bradshaw x Ex-girlfriend!Reader

Summary: You never thought you'd see Bradley Bradshaw again, especially the way things ended between the two of you. So what happens when he's suddenly back for a special mission and is determined to win you back too?

Warnings: Angst (ish), adult language, drinking

Length: 2.5k

Stuck on the Past masterlist

"You let him give you a ride home? Are you insane?" April screeched over the phone. You were stood outside your office building, about to go into work.

"Look, I don't know how it happened, okay? I was gonna say no-"

"But you can't resist him." April huffed, "He's not a bad guy, but you can't go back there again."

"I know." You sighed, "I don't have to see him again anyways. Plus, he actually had the nerve to flirt with me in the car! Can you believe that? Said that I was his favourite ex-girlfriend or something."

April groaned, "He's an ass, but I'm not surprised. You're this hotshot journalist now and you looked hot the other night. Of course he flirted with you."

You chuckled, "I have to go. I'll message you later."

You said goodbye and hung up the phone, walking into the building and eventually finding your desk. Maybe April was right. You've got a good job and you certainly looked a lot better than you did in your 20s. But then again, so did Bradley.

Before you could log into your computer, one of the interns was at your desk. "Mark wants to see you in his office." She said. You thanked her, and made your way to your bosses office.

You knocked and carefully opened the door. Mark was grinning from behind his desk, which usually meant he'd found a juicy story for you to cover. Things were looking up.

He beckoned you inside, "Sit down. Do I have something great for you!"

You were lucky, Mark was a great boss. He'd been in the business for a while and helped you work your way up when you'd started writing for him. He was older and could be stern when he wanted to be, but he was always okay with you.

You sat in front of him, "What's the story?"

He leaned forward, "A real investigation." He grabbed a file from his drawer and placed it in front of him on the desk, leaning forward to face you again, "You'll never believe it. We've been tipped off that Top Gun are hosting the best in the business right now to help them with a top secret mission."

Your face fell, "I haven't heard anything about that." You forced out, trying to sound casual.

"Of course you haven't!" He scoffed, "No one has, the only info we have right now is that the mission is serious, and some of the best aviators in the country are training for it as we speak! You're gonna find out the other details. I wanna know what they're up to."

You squirmed in your seat. Mark was a great boss, sure, but something like this? He was never gonna let it go. "Sir, with all due respect, why have you got me on this? I mean, I don't know a whole lot about aviation, I'm sure I wouldn't even understand the ins and outs of the mission if someone laid it out in front of me." You chuckled nervously.

Mark leaned back in his chair, "A little birdie told me that's not strictly true." He grinned, opening up the file in front of him until there were pictures on display. He pushed it in front of you and you realised it must be pictures of the Top Gun graduates going on the mission. You spotted Bradley straight away. He really did look good. "You know one of these aviators right? I hear you dated while you were studying?"

Shit. It must have been Anna that let it slip. She had studied journalism the same year as you. Probably saw Bradley pick you up a few times. You'd probably gushed about him to her while you were at school. There was no getting out of this.

Your cleared your throat, "I was involved with one of them, sure."

"Then you are the perfect person for this!" Mark was practically giddy. He was one of those constantly questioning the government and how they spent 'good tax-payers' money, of course he would jump at the chance to out some special mission, "You have a way in!"

Your mouth fell open. You couldn't remember a time you'd felt more embarrassed than this. You glanced down at Bradley's photo. "I - He's.. I don't even know how big of a role he's playing in this. I saw him the other night but-"

"Perfect!" Mark jumped up, "You interview him, get on base, I don't care! Do whatever it takes to get some information."

You stood up too, "But, I mean, what if it's completely boring? You know, not even worth writing about? I bet it's probably something really routine, there's no need to be looking into this." you rambled, knowing that ultimately, your fate was sealed.

"This is big." Mark said, smiling, "I can feel it. They're training for something important and you're gonna find out what it is."

You stood facing him, trying to think of anything else you could argue, "Maybe I should-"

"Nope!" Mark said, walking you towards the door and shoving the file into your hands, "You get straight on it, I won't hear another word. Do what you need to do. Take one of 'em out for a drink if you have to, I don't care! Go! Get started."

Then before you knew it you were stood outside the building again, waiting for April to pick up her phone. When the call finally connected, you didn't even say hello.

"I'm screwed."

-

You couldn't believe your luck at this point. First seeing Bradley after all these years, then being forced to ask him for his help. Even if he agreed to see you, there was no way he was going to tell you all the details of his mission. He wasn't that stupid.

It was late by the time you left work. Your mind had been running wild all day. You'd done as much research as you could, but you couldn't help but think that you'd been given an impossible task.

As you worried about how you'd get in touch with Bradley again, or if you even should, you noticed a new car parked outside your apartment block. Once you pulled in outside, you realised it wasn't a new car at all, it was Bradley's bronco.

Maybe this wouldn't be as difficult as you thought.

You stepped out of your car and walked to his drivers side, tapping on his window. He jumped and you stepped back so he could get out of the car.

"Why are you parked outside my apartment? Decided to stalk me now?" You huffed.

Bradley held his hands up in surrender, "No, sweetheart, I just came to apologise for the other night."

"Don't call me that." You frowned, "How long have you been sat out here?"

"Not long. I saw your neighbour, she said you'd be getting home from work within the hour." He shrugged, "I felt bad. I wanted to see you."

You pinched the bridge of your nose. How was this happening? Raising your eyes to meet his, he had this boyish grin on his face, like he knew he was playing with fire, but he didn't care.

You began to walk towards your apartment building, when you turned to see Bradley hadn't moved, you sighed, "Are you coming or what?" He smiled and hurried to catch up with you. This was definitely a bad idea.

-

"Nice place." Bradley stood by your couch whilst you were trying to make coffee with shaking hands. He was in his flight suit and you couldn't stop staring. April was right, you really couldn't resist him. For the sake of your job, you'd have to try.

You handed him a cup of coffee and the two of you sat down on your coach, "Thanks. It's not much, kinda small, but it's all I need."

Bradley nodded, taking a sip of coffee and placing it on the small table in front of you both, "I still remember that first place you had, remember your old neighbour? God, what was her name?"

"Evelyn!" You smiled nostalgically, "She was so miserable, always used to yell at me when you came over."

"That's because we made way too much noise." Bradley smirked and you rolled your eyes.

"We weren't that loud."

"You definitely were, sweetheart." He grinned.

You gave him a playful glare, glancing down at the coffee cup in your hands, "This is so weird. Seeing you." You looked up, meeting his eyes, "When we... When you left, I-" you sighed, "I never thought I'd see you again."

Bradley's eyes softened as they met yours. Truthfully, he didn't think he'd see you again either. In fact, he promised himself he wouldn't come back for that very reason. He knew you deserved someone that would always be there for you and he couldn't be that person, not when he always had a deployment looming over him. You'd grown so much in the time you'd been apart and so had he, he'd often thought over the years that his younger self had made too quick of a decision to leave. Maybe.

He cleared his throat, "I didn't think I would ever come back here, maybe it's fate." He tried to joke, but the air just got thicker, the silence more awkward.

"Bradley." You said, lips forming a tight line, "Why are you here? I mean, right now, on my couch. You didn't have to come and apologise for the other night. You know that. So why are you here?"

Bradley groaned, leaning back on the couch and turning away from you, running a hand through his hair, "I'm out of my depth here with this mission. It's stupid but... I needed someone to talk to and I don't know many people here. I couldn't stop thinking about you."

Your ears perked up at that. You felt mean, but maybe this was how you'd get some information on the mission. Just enough to satisfy your boss, you didn't need to dig that deep. "Why? What's wrong with the mission?"

He turned to look at you, "The mission isn't exactly the problem. Maverick is teaching it."

You almost choked on your coffee. You'd never met Maverick in person, but you knew how hurt Bradley was by what he had done. It had taken him a while to open up to you about it back then, and it looked like he was just as hurt by it all now. "Maverick? But I thought he.. Wouldn't he have retired by now?"

Bradley let out a loud laugh, "He won't retire. He'll never retire, as much as I wish he would." He sighed, "He's trying to.. make things right. He pulled my papers, how can I forgive him? He'll never give me a fair shot at this mission. He doesn't trust me in the air."

"I think you'll find a way." You answered simply with a shrug, "Forgiveness takes a lot sometimes. Maybe being closer to him will help you get there."

His eyes met yours. He was searching for something, you didn't know what, until he said, "What about me? Have you forgiven me?"

Before you could answer, someone buzzed your apartment. You apologized and went to answer, when April's voice came blaring through the speaker, "I thought I'd surprise you! I brought wine!"

You glanced from Bradley and back to the buzzer, "I'll buzz you in." You said, knowing that April was likely about to unleash hell.

"Who was that?" Bradley asked, turning to face you from the couch.

You opened your mouth to reply as April knocked the door. When you opened it, she grinned, holding up the bottle of wine she'd brought and walking towards the lounge, "I was gonna message you but I thought why not be an amazing best friend and-" She stopped quickly when she saw Bradley sat on the couch, "What the hell are you doing here?"

Bradley just grinned like nothing phased him, "April. It's been a while."

She placed the wine onto the coffee table and crossed her arms, "I don't know what's going on here, but I don't like it."

You came to her side, muttering her name until Bradley stood, "I'm not surprised. You never did like anything much, did you?" He chuckled, "I'll get going, get out of your way."

You nodded, "I'll walk you out."

When you reached your front door, he turned to you, "That didn't go exactly as I'd planned." He smiled, "I've still got your number, if you haven't changed it, mind if I call you sometime?"

"I haven't changed it." You replied with a shrug, "I don't mind."

He grinned, "Good, maybe we could grab dinner soon? I'd like that a lot."

You nodded, not giving him a definite answer, before saying goodbye and closing the door, walking into the lounge to face April. She was stood in the middle of the room, flipping through the Top Gun folder, "What is this?"

You frowned, grabbing it from her, "Where did you find that?"

"You left it on your kitchen counter." She faced you, crossing her arms, "So is your big explanation that you invited him over to help you with this article your boss is making you write?"

"No." You sighed, "He doesn't know about the article. I don't know whether to tell him. He wants to go for dinner."

Her eyes widened, "The only reason you should go to dinner with him is to professionally discuss his mission. That's it. Otherwise, you'll only end up getting hurt again."

You shrugged, "Maybe not. He's older, we're older. More mature..." You groaned, flopping onto the couch, "April, I don't know what I'm doing. I'm over him! I've been over him for years and then he just randomly shows up here and-"

"Calm down. Drink up." April poured a glass of wine and handed it to you, "You need to be strong here. He might have been your big love, but he needs to prove he's grown up before you assume that he has."

You nodded and sipped at your wine. Bradley definitely seemed grown up, but deep down was he still the boy that broke your heart? The boy that decided to leave when things got too tough? You didn't even know if he was interested in anything with you or if he was just trying to be friendly. You couldn't stop thinking about him either. Especially now you'd seen him in his flight suit.

April was right.

You needed to calm down.

-

You lay awake staring at the text you'd been sent nearly ten minutes ago.

Still thinking about you. Let me know when you're free

What could you even say to that? You didn't want to admit you'd been thinking about him. You could barely admit that to yourself yet. Your boss had hounded you the last couple days, asking if you'd spoken to anyone or found anything out yet. You'd said you were working on it.

Did late night texts count as working on it?

You messaged him back before you could regret it.

Tomorrow night?

You put your phone down on your bedside table, picking it up not even a minute later when it buzzed.

Pick you up at 7.

[simmerandwrite]

Sink Into Me - 08 - mob!Steve Rogers x plus size!reader

Pairing: mob boss! Steve Rogers x plus size! reader

Summary: You were simply doing a good deed, pulling the handsome stranger out of the way when a car jumped the curb. Little did you know that the life you saved belonged to Steve Rogers, the Army veteran turned art dealer with connections to the Brooklyn crime syndicate.

Steve Rogers, who won’t stop calling you his guardian angel.

Steve Rogers, whose new goal in life just might be repaying his debt to you.

Steve Rogers, who isn’t shy until it comes to his feelings and will stop at nothing to keep you safe.

Chapters: 01 02 03 04 05 06  07 08 09

Wordcount: 8.3k

Warnings: canon level violence (guns, physical fighting), allusions to dog fighting (but no mention of any kind of abuse), some angst

Notes: HI I AM SO SORRY ABOUT THE DELAY. life, ya know? but enjoy this little treat, please. and.. uhm.. sorry.

---

“We need to talk about Steve Rogers.”

You took in a hard breath and scanned the man - he had a permanent smug look to him, something that made you feel unsettled. The tag around his neck with his badge indicated his name was Grant Ward, NYPD detective. 

“Give me back my phone,” you said, slowly emptying your lungs in an attempt to stay calm. “Now.”

Ward shook his head, grinning. “Not yet. C’mon, let’s chat.” He slipped your phone inside his jacket pocket and grabbed your elbow, urging you to step further across the sidewalk in front of a closed down shop. “I got your info from Hammond’s file. You were a witness on a little vehicular assault case a while back, right?”

Nothing about this felt proper or to procedure. But you wanted it to end as quickly as possible, so you nodded. 

“What I need to know is why Steve Rogers asked you to lie on your witness report and identify the wrong person.” 

“Excuse me?” Your voice cracked as you tried to piece together what he was saying. “I didn’t lie about anything. Shouldn’t - shouldn’t Officer Hammond be following up with me - if there was an issue?”

“I’ve reopened the investigation.” Ward leaned against the building, glancing up and down the street casually as he spoke. “Your intentional misidentification put someone innocent in jail. How do you sleep at night?”

“I didn’t lie,” you repeated, swallowing hard. Hercules paced at your feet. 

“You’re lying right now. Rogers told you who to point out in that police lineup, didn’t he?”

You wanted to scream in this man’s face but given he was technically a person of the law, you resisted. Instead, you pursed your lips and opted to stay quiet. Shouldn’t you have a lawyer or something to represent you? God, why weren’t you into legal dramas instead of reality tv?

“Here’s what it looks like. Rogers asks you to help him out and in turn, you get a fancy new apartment. Isn’t that right?” Ward took a step forward and pointed past you, towards the rest of the block. “How else can you afford a luxury apartment working your little 9-5 gig? I verified your record of employment and something just doesn’t add up.”

Before you had a chance to reply to his asinine claim, he was reaching for his buzzing phone. “This is Ward.” You tried to listen to the other end of the call, but couldn’t make out the voice. 

He looked back at you, eyes roving up and down as he carried on with his phone conversation. “You’re kidding. That was all true? Wow. Okay. Yeah, I’m with her. Sure.” He raised his free hand and suddenly a nearby SUV was pulling up. “Heading there now.”

Your stomach twisted when Ward turned back to you. 

“Let’s go.” He tipped his head towards the vehicle, where the driver had gotten out to open the back door. “We’ve gotta move this chat elsewhere.”

Your eyes blew open, head shaking. “Absolutely not. Give me my phone and —“

Ward stepped towards you again, grabbing your hand that was holding onto Hercules' leash. “If you don’t get in that car willingly, you’ll have a dead dog on your hands. Is that what you want?” He flashed you a smile. “Let’s. Fucking. Go.”

--

“Storm coming tonight..”

Steve looked up from his plate of pasta, watching his mom across the table as she put down her cutlery. Sarah rubbed her hands together, tired with the weight of time and the pressure of weather changes that seemed to grow worse with each passing season. 

“I can feel it in these old joints,” Sarah continued, leaning back in her chair before glancing to the window above her kitchen sink.

“Ma,” Steve finally replied, quietly returning his own fork to the side of his plate. “Why don’t you skip the rest of this monologue about the weather and tell me what’s really on your mind?”

Steve tried to have dinner with his mother at least once a week, if time permitted. The last few months had been a bit chaotic for him though, mostly his own doing of course. And Sarah hadn’t pressed when he canceled. But, something about her tone and strange casual conversation wasn’t sitting well with him. In fact, he could read his mother really well and she was upset, maybe even mad at him. If there was one thing Steve hated, it was when his mother was upset with him.

He liked to nip it in the bud as quickly as he could.

Sarah sighed, slowly crossing her arms over her chest as she eyed down her son. “I haven’t had the chance to tell you about who I ran into at the hospital a few weekends ago.”

“You gonna give me a clue?” Steve smirked, taking a long pause to enjoy a sip from his wine glass. “Who?”

When your name left his mother’s lips, Steve felt his chest tighten. He had very quickly and casually explained to her that you and he had called things off, respectfully asking Sarah not to press him for details. Surprisingly, she hadn’t asked any follow up questions, though Steve knew she hadn’t been feeling positive about the news. In fact, he had assumed his mom would have had a much more passionate reaction. And maybe it was still coming.

He took a deep breath. “Oh. And.. how is she?” Would it be possible for this conversation to only last one more sentence? Would he be able to get out of it without his mother making him feel any worse?

When Steve met his mom’s gaze again, he knew that question wasn’t what he should have asked. He was starting to think maybe saying nothing would have been best.

“How is she?” Sarah repeated, letting out a hard laugh. “Steven.”

“Ma, listen, what happened between us is..” He hesitated. Complicated was not the word he wanted to use, but what else could he say? “I had to cut things off. She’s safer this way.” 

There. His heart was torn off his sleeve and slapped onto his plate. 

“Steve,” Sarah was softer this time, releasing the anger from her shoulders as she reached across the table for his hand. “You’re not being fair. To yourself. How are you supposed to live this way? Don’t you want a family in the future? Or a break from.. everything?”

Steve squeezed her hand but didn’t respond. Sarah waited another moment for him to say something, then stood and carried her plate to the sink. 

Without turning back around, she continued. “I told her about Hamilton House.”

Steve sighed, leaning back in his chair again and shaking his head. “Ma..”

“Why didn’t you just talk to her? She would have understood.”

“You barely made it out of that fire alive!” Steve pushed back from the table and met his mother at the sink, placing a hand on her shoulder. “And I can barely live with myself as is, but if something happened to her too, I’d..”

“Honey,” Sarah’s voice was even quieter now as she pivoted to look at him. She reached her hand up to cradle his face. “You need to stop blaming yourself, please.”

How could he ever do that? The scars were still quite obvious on many parts of his mother’s body - 

“Steve.” Sarah took in another deep breath. “I’m a grown woman who can take care of herself. And so is she.” There was your name again, coming off of Sarah’s tongue like it just warmed her soul. “She’s good for you.”

“That doesn’t matter anymore.” A painful laugh gurgled up in Steve’s throat. “I made pretty sure she’ll never talk to me again, unfortunately.”

“Steven.” This time the soft edge had left Sarah’s tone. The disappointment was back. “Don’t tell me you pushed that girl away on purpose.”

“I’m a grown man who can take care of himself,” Steve repeated back to her, stepping away from the sink and turning to grab his coat. “I’ve gotta go, Ma. Thanks for dinner.”

Sarah grabbed his wrist, eyes bright with words she wouldn’t say. Instead, she shook her head and sighed quietly. “At least take a container of pasta for Bucky.”

---

The further the vehicle traveled beyond your neighbourhood, the further your stomach sank. You did your best to listen to the conversations happening between Ward and his driver, but nothing seemed clear. 

Where were you going? Were you in trouble? You hadn’t lied to the police - you knew better than that. But how could you prove that when clearly they had another story created? Was this about Steve? You weren’t even talking to him. What the hell was going on?

The only thing saving you from a breakdown was Hercules resting his head on your lap. Gently you scratched behind his ears, doing your best to reassure your dog as he did the same for you. 

You were going to be okay. There had to be a positive solution to this mess. 

Eventually, the vehicle slowed down in an industrial area you weren’t familiar with. In the growing darkness of the night, everything kind of looked the same - rows of large warehouse style buildings, some in much worse shape than the others. As you approached one of the buildings, a garage door opened up to allow you access.

“Let’s go,” Ward barked out as the car stopped, quickly sliding through his door and throwing the one closest to you open. He reached for your nearest wrist. “But first..”

Handcuffs. What you could only assume were police-grade handcuffs joined your wrists together, despite your protests. Ward was choosing every opportunity to remind you he had a gun, so when he told you to head towards the staircase leading out of the parking area, all you could do was comply.

The driver, some other nameless brute listening to Ward’s every word, held on to Hercules’ leash and followed behind. The panic within you stirred.

The building had clearly once been a thriving warehouse or multi-level business hub. Now, it was reduced to whatever criminal activity these men were tied up in. Every second window was boarded up or leaking in cold air through broken shards, with the evidence of previous occupants littering the floors. Old desks, chairs, appliances laid strewn about.

Ward guided you across the second floor, leading towards the far side of the room. You could hear other voices as you approached. He yanked the door open and pressed against your back for you to enter ahead of him.

You stumbled past the threshold, lifting your head up to look around the room. It felt out of place, given the state of the building. This room remained intact from days before, the remnants of an executive office with a large boardroom table sitting opposite the broken windows. A man you didn’t recognize was seated behind an oversized mahogany table, a burning cigar hanging off his lips. Behind him, a disheveled blond wearing an ill-fitting suit jacket stood scrolling through his phone.

That man you did recognize – you were certain he had been one of the men who had broken into your apartment. You could feel the familiar wave of panic come over you again.

Sitting in a pair of chairs in front of the desk were another two men – one dressed in a long overcoat over his suit, with perfectly coiffed hair. The other donned more casual clothes, well worn with a scowl across his face, strong and silent. You thought perhaps you recognized them, too. You might have seen them at Shield or maybe they had worked with Steve? 

“This is her?” The man with the cigar asked, rising from his seat. The other two seated men had turned their heads to look in your direction, then stood the same. 

Ward laughed, returning his gun to his jacket, and reaching a hand to grip your neck. He urged you closer to the desk. 

“Russo – you’re sure?” The same man asked again, shooting a glance at one of the other two men. Ah, nice suit, nice hair - Russo. He had interrupted you and Steve, that day at his office.

“Yep. I know, doesn’t make sense to me either,” Russo replied with a dry laugh, stepping away from the desk and waiting to the side with the other man, Mr. Strong and Silent.

“Walker, you’re on dog duty,” Ward added after. He snapped his fingers and the guy scrolling on his phone was at attention, rolling his eyes as he grabbed Hercules’ leash from the driver. 

Hercules whimpered at the back of the room.

You tried to look towards your confused pup, but Ward’s hands landed on your shoulders. He pushed down to encourage you to sit in one of the vacant seats at the desk.

Finally, the man with the cigar looked at you. A tight smirk curled up on his face as he said your name out loud. “Well, nice to finally meet you. I’m Brock. We’ve got a lot to discuss.”

You sat still, hands resting on your lap. You resisted replying with some snappy commentary and instead dug your fingernails into your palms. Maybe you needed to comply, but God, what was the point of all this?

“I’m not really sure what I’m doing here,” you said quietly, letting out a long breath. “I told him-” you jerked your head at Ward, “-everything I said to Officer Hammond was true. Steve didn’t ask me to lie about anything and I’m sorry if someone you know ended up in jail but I had to tell the truth.”

Brock raised an eyebrow, amused. “Well, I don’t give a shit about any of that. We’ve gotta fix this and you’re going to help.”

You pressed your lips into a thin line. 

“You’re going to meet with Hammond and tell him you lied about-”

You shook your head. “I didn’t lie.”

Brock abandoned his cigar and slammed his hand on the table. “Don’t interrupt me, darling.” He took a breath and started again. “You’re going to meet with Hammond tomorrow morning and set things straight, alright?”

“And if I don’t?” You swallowed the lump in your throat as you asked your question. 

Brock leaned back in his chair, grinning. “You’re really asking that? Damn. Well, if you don’t - you’re never going to see your dog again, for starters.”

Your face fell and you shuffled in the chair again, turning to look back towards Hercules. “Please don’t hurt him.”

“What do you think, Walker? The mutt would be good for the pit, huh? They could use some fresh meat for the next fight.”

You gasped as Hercules pulled at his leash, trying to walk to you. Walker held the leash tight.

“P-please. Don’t. He doesn’t deserve that, he’s just..” Your voice shook as you turned and looked back at Brock. “Okay, fine. I’ll talk to Hammond.” You just had to agree and get out of here. Once you were home, you could call the police station and tell them the truth and and and–

“Hammond is expecting you first thing tomorrow morning at the station.” Ward was looking down at your phone, tapping away at the screen. Great, he was just sending messages on your behalf. You hated that. Clearly you were not getting your phone back. Fuck, how were you going to get out of this?

“Now,” Brock leaned onto his elbows on the desk, returning his cigar to his mouth for a long drag. “Let’s talk about Rogers.”

You gulped.

“I need every little dirty secret you’ve got,” Brock said with a snap of his fingers. “Let’s go. Talk.��

“I don’t..” You faltered, glancing around the room quickly. Russo was watching you carefully while his partner seemed to be preoccupied with his feet, his eyes were drawn down. “I don’t know what you think I might know.. Steve and I.. We.. He broke up with me a while ago.”

A laugh escaped Brock. “I heard that wasn’t the case.”

Russo stepped forward. “Rogers took you home from Shield a few weekends ago, did he not? Drove you right back into your apartment then even walked you to the door?”

You stilled. Why did these men know about that? Were they following you? Or Steve? How did they know where you lived?

“I don’t know anything, I swear. Even when we were..” You closed your eyes. “We didn’t talk about business.”

“You know, I don’t believe you.” Brock let out a frustrated huff and tapped his cigar ash to the floor. “Let’s start easy, alright? Rogers has a ledger, the Bible for all his transactions. Where does he keep it?”

You shrugged. “I honestly have no idea. I don’t remember ever seeing a ledger or–”

“Bullshit.” It was Russo jumping in now. “You were fucking him for months. Christ, give us something.”

If you shifted your head back and forth in a shake anymore, you were going to give yourself whiplash. “I-I don’t, really.” You didn’t like how they were both crowding in on you, guns visible on their hips as their voices escalated. “Steve didn’t tell me things - he.. I didn’t..”

“Where does he keep his safe? What buildings did he take you to?” Brock continued on, reciting any thought or question that seemed to jump into his head. “I need to know which Senator is really in his pocket. And what he promised to Rhodes.”

You repeated yourself again and again and again as they bombarded you. “I don’t know, I don’t know! He would never tell me those things.”

“Think harder then.” Brock stood up in a fury, circling the desk to plant himself in front of you. “I need something fucking useful.”

Squeezing your eyes shut, you tried to think of something, anything to stop this. Everything you retained about Steve wouldn’t be what they wanted - that he was an old soul, a gentleman who kept your best interests at heart. Who loved old musicals and his mother. Who cared deeply about things but had hurt you deeply, too. None of that would have been helpful so what the fuck were you supposed to do?

“I..” You let out a breath. Would it be worth it to lie?

“If you say ‘you don’t know’ one more goddamn time..” Brock leaned forward, closing in the space between you and reaching for your jaw. He held it between his fingers, keeping you in his grasp waiting for an answer. 

When you didn’t respond, Brock growled and reached for his cigar, flipping it in his fingers and bringing the burning end closer and closer to your exposed neck. You could feel the heat before it even touched your skin and all you could do was scream in anticipation. 

“I don’t– please! Please don’t-” You pressed yourself into the chair, trying to get as far away from him as possible. But, the burning sensation never came.

“Hey–” This was a new voice. The Strong and Silent man lingering near Russo had rushed between you and Brock, shoving him away before the cigar made contact with your skin.  “You said you weren’t going to hurt her.”

Brock pushed him back. “This has nothing to do with you, Castle. Back the fuck off.” 

Castle didn’t move - acting as a barricade between you and Brock. They stood at a standstill, and eventually Brock let out a long dramatic sigh. “Ward.” He snapped his fingers again and Ward came forward. Once again, a hand landed on your shoulder.

“Take her up to the roof.”

---

“Do we not fucking knock anymore?” Steve called out as Bucky burst into his office, dragging Peter by the collar as he did.

Steve’s patience had run thin following dinner with his mother. She had managed to stir everything else up again, the feelings Steve was desperately trying to eliminate from his heart. Yet, they hadn’t dulled over time like he wanted. They remained steady, as steady as the beat of his heart. 

“She’s good for you.”

On top of that, they had managed to clear out most of the out of territory drug dealers creeping into Brooklyn. But it hadn’t really stopped. The drugs still found their way in, and the problems were escalating moreso. Angry clients, aggravated partners, a particularly frustrated future Mayor who needed Steve’s compliance and trusted network underground for insight. 

The last thing Steve wanted to deal with now was another issue. But when Steve saw the panicked look in Bucky’s eyes as he grabbed Peter’s shirt, Steve paused.

“Show him.” Bucky urged Peter forward, eyes wide in a panic. “Now.”

Steve stood from his chair slowly, meeting the young man in the middle of his office. “What’s going on? Is this about Beck again?”

“No, sir. No. It’s uh..” Peter’s hand was shaking as he gripped his cellphone, tapping on the screen before he glanced between Bucky and Steve again. “I keep an eye on social media - mostly just to see what’s happening, who’s hanging out where. My friend Ned he..” Peter shook his head. “Whatever. No one knows it’s me who watches their stuff. So. I was clicking through John Walker’s Instagram stories - that guy is an idiot, by the way. Always trying to bait women to find him at clubs or wherever. And..”

Peter tapped through something on his screen then turned it toward Steve. “Mr. Barnes said he recognized the dog in the background of this video..” 

Steve snatched the phone and pressed play on the screen recording. John Walker was in the middle of the frame, filming himself with the front camera as he talked about which bar he’d be showing up at later. But none of that mattered to Steve. What did matter was the dog tied up in the background, pulling at his lead as he started to bark. 

“Christ. Sorry about the mutt. Dealing with something for work..” 

Steve raised his eyes from the screen, eyebrows furrowed. “When was this posted?”

Peter swallowed before he replied. “About 20 minutes ago.”

Bucky turned to Steve. “Is that..?”

All Steve could do was growl, shoving the phone back at Peter. “Send that to me. Right now.” Steve reached for his own phone, heading out the door of his office towards the primary club facilities. Bucky was at his feet, asking what he could do to help. 

“Buck, call Kate. I need a timestamp for when Hercules was picked up.” 

Bucky nodded and tore off, phone to his ear. 

Steve called Clint directly. “Barton, I need your help.”

---

Kate confirmed you had picked up Hercules just before they closed. She didn’t notice anything concerning, aside from your general demeanor seeming quiet. 

Clint reviewed security footage outside your apartment building entrance, back door and lobby. No sign of you. It’s possible you had picked up your dog then gone elsewhere, but Steve wasn’t convinced. 

Fuck. 

Fuck, fuck, fuck. 

Steve paced his office again and again, waiting desperately for some information. Peter and Thor had stolen off to a few well known bars to see if they could track down Walker or any of his friends. 

Clint had gone to your building to troll the neighborhood and seek out any additional video footage that might help. 

Steve called Vision to see if he could connect with Wanda to get some information about where you might be, without leading to anything especially suspicious. 

Steve needed to know where you were and if you were okay. Truthfully, he wouldn’t be able to settle until he knew you were safe - until he saw you himself. 

This was the fucking risk, wasn’t it? Letting you in. People were going to use your relationship against him. It was staring him right in the face all along. Fuck, how could he live with himself if you got hurt?

Steve let out a fit of rage that had been brewing within him. He grabbed the rocks glass off his desk, still half full of melting ice, and sent it flying into the back of his door. 

God fucking damnit. He didn’t like any of this. With no news from Vision and Wanda, his mind was going to bad places.

Steve stalked across the broken glass and threw his door open, grabbing his coat as he left. He found Bucky downstairs at the bar, phone in hand as Natasha leaned beside him. 

“Please tell me someone has some fucking news to share,” Steve growled out as he approached. He didn’t even have to ask Natasha to pour him a drink, as it quickly appeared on the bar. 

“No Walker sightings yet,” Bucky said as he glanced at his phone. As he turned the screen, a new message appeared. 

The text didn’t contain any information or words, just a simple location pin. Bucky tapped on it, revealing an address on the outskirts of Brooklyn. 

“Who sent that?” Steve asked, eyeing over Bucky’s shoulder as he drained his glass. 

“No clue. I don’t know the number.” Bucky replied quietly. “No message either. Just a thumbs up emoji. But the timing is suspect.”

Steve shook his head. What did he have to lose? “Let’s go. Have Sam meet us there.”

---

You should have worn more layers, warmer clothes. Not that you anticipated being abducted on your way home. But you trusted the warm fall morning and now all you had was regret. A thin sweater barely kept you covered and the looming thunder overhead meant the threat of rain was very real. 

Ward had dragged you up the barren staircases to the roof, where he had then removed one of your handcuffs only to attach it to some external pipe system that hugged the outside wall of the building. You could sit on the dirty cold roof or stand and try to peer down, but nothing else. You were stuck. 

When you tried to plead with Ward  for your escape, he only smirked then offered an alternative. 

“Tell you what - if you get on your knees for me, I’ll remove the handcuffs altogether.”

As an answer to that proposal, you spit in his face. He really didn’t like that - which left you pushed to the ground and cuffed with no coverage from wind or impending rain. God fucking damnit. 

Once Ward disappeared through the door again, you yelled for help. If it made any lick of difference, you had no idea. There was another building very close by, yelling distance at least. But it looked abandoned just the same. On the other side of the roof, it looked like an emergency staircase existed. 

Not like you’d be able to escape. You seemed very stuck.

Were they going to leave you out there all night? Was this some scare tactic? What did they want from you - a detailed breakdown of everything you knew about Steve? You couldn’t do that - you wouldn’t. Despite the ricochet of emotions you had been through with Steve, you still felt.. something to him. Be it loyalty or kindness or whatever, you couldn’t throw him under the bus. 

Steve was a good person. You saw that in him often. But these men? You weren’t so sure. 

What if they left you until you had to meet with Hammond? Ten hours in the cold and rain. You could survive that, maybe. Maybe. 

Thunder rumbled above you. Rain started to fall. 

Fuck. Maybe not. 

In an attempt to make yourself as small as possible, you sat against the side wall and wrapped your free arm around yourself. It didn’t do much to protect you from the rain, but it helped retain what little body heat you still had. 

You weren’t sure how long you sat in the rain before you heard the access door burst open. You looked up and braced yourself, but felt almost relieved to see it wasn’t Ward again. 

It was Castle. 

He hesitated when he saw you, then quickly hurried in your direction. 

You closed your eyes in a panic. “I’m sorry - I don’t have anything to share about Steve  - I can’t remember if there was—”

“Hey, hey. It’s okay. I’m not here about that.” Castle crouched down in front of you. “I can’t let you go but let me help, alright?” He reached into his pocket and took out what looked like a Swiss Army knife. “I’ll get out of these cuffs at least.”

You braced yourself as he gently touched your wrist, using his tool to work through the lock mechanism. “Thank you.. uhm, Mr. Castle?”

He chuckled, barely. “Frank.”

You nodded, grateful as he freed your hand and left the cuffs dangling. “Thank you, Frank.”

“Over there,” Frank turned his head and pointed to the middle of the roof, where a small maintenance structure stood. It had a sloping roof that could provide more coverage. “Go. You’ll be covered at least.”

Frank got to his feet and offered you his hand. Once you were standing, he shrugged off his own heavy coat and handed it to you. 

“Frank,” you clutched the coat and met his gaze, eyes blurring from the rain. “Can you just.. make sure my dog is okay? Hercules? He’s a lover, not a fighter. But he’s all I have and- and..”

Frank gave you a curt nod. “Go.” He motioned back to the small shed and you nodded too. 

You had no idea why Frank was helping you. But you decided it had to be a good sign, right?

---

Steve had no idea what he was walking into. He had done this before – going in blind to certain situations was the nature of his entire job. It wasn’t always possible to anticipate who he would run into, if the person he trusted would deliver, if weapons were involved. But given his state of mind and the all-consuming worry he had about your wellbeing; he didn’t really care what he was faced with.

He just needed to figure out where you were and ensure you were safe. 

The location that had been sent to Bucky was outside of Brooklyn, just barely. Along an industrial neighbourhood, where plenty of abandoned factories and distribution centers lived, the coordinates lead them to a nondescript building. 

Steve and Bucky climbed out of the car, strapped with more than enough guns and ammunition to fight their way through whatever and whoever they were about to face. As they approached, Sam jogged into view, too.

“Thor couldn’t find Walker anywhere,” Sam provided as an update once they were waiting outside. “But Peter’s little tech friend managed to track a location for some recent postings to this general area..”

“Sounds like a likely place to look,” Bucky concluded, raising an eyebrow as he glanced at Steve.

Steve took in a deep breath, eyebrows narrowed as he gazed at the doors ahead of him. Raising his hands, he tugged at the collar of his coat and smoothed it out before nodding. He was ready to deal with this.

“If she’s anywhere in here, her safety is priority, you understand?” Steve glanced from Bucky back to Sam, waiting for their own nod of understanding. “If anyone put her in danger, they’re going to pay. But not at her expense.”

Bucky pressed his knuckles into his metal palm, a coy smirk raising on his lips. “Here’s hoping I get to fuck up Walker’s face again.”

Sam took the lead and yanked the dilapidated entry door open, busting open the lock mechanism with little effort. The main level they entered on was mainly being used for vehicle parking and what looked like some storage. A staircase led up to the next level.

Steve carried on - striding to the top of the staircase and heading through the doors. The entire building was in bad shape but this wasn’t their first rodeo.

Someone was hiding out somewhere. And when he found them, it wasn’t going to be pretty. 

“Sam - call everyone to be standby, including Thor and his brother. Get Barton to scope out next door, too. Lots of windows for coverage, the rooftop. Remind him about the Bullseye protocol.” Steve ran a hand through his hair then glanced to his right, motioning to the far door with Bucky. “You’re with me.”

In a few long strides, Steve reached the door and waited. Then, he raised a hand and knocked against it. Bucky stood behind his left shoulder. 

Someone on the other side of the door was yelling, then eventually they heard heavy stomping as someone approached. When the door opened, Steve didn’t hesitate - he leaped forward and reached for the collar of whoever it was. 

Steve growled. Grant Ward.

“Oh Jesus fucking–” Ward yelped out, trying to pull away from Steve’s grasp as Steve backed him into the room. “Take it fucking easy, Rogers. What the fuck are you–”

“Where is she?” Steve’s voice boomed, holding Ward in his grip as he glanced around the room. It was a fairly sparse leftover office, but sitting at the end of the large boardroom table was Billy Russo, Frank Castle and Brock Rumlow himself. A few other nameless thugs waited behind them, guns at the ready. “Where IS SHE?”

Steve threw Ward to the ground, reaching for his gun as the men at the table stood up and drew their own weapons, too. Bucky followed in behind Steve and kicked Ward down when he tried to get back on his feet.

“Stay down,” Bucky said to Ward. 

Rumlow moved from his spot slowly, waving his gun around and placing it down on the table as he walked towards Steve. “Rogers.”

Steve didn’t respond, darting his eyes from Rumlow back to Russo and Castle at the table. Russo looked away, suddenly preoccupied with anything else but Steve. Castle, though, also put his gun away.

“Rumlow.” Steve growled out your name this time. “Where. Is. She?”

Brock smirked. “Who? Oh.. yes. Sure. We just met. As far as I know, you two aren’t together anymore. What’s the concern?”

“If you fucking touched her-” Steve raised his hand again, gun pointing directly at Rumlow as they stood apart. “Tell me where she is.”

“Me and Russo have been talking. I think the three of us could be working together better. If you haven’t been picking off my dealers one by one, the pot could be a lot sweeter.”

“You and your drugs aren’t worthy of Brooklyn.” Steve stepped forward. “Tell me.”

“You know, I didn’t want us to meet like this.” Rumlow brought his hands up, in a faux act of surrender then slowly moved one of them forward to encourage Steve to put his weapon down. “In fact, I went through a lot of trouble to keep your pretty face away from here.”

“Not much trouble, it seems. And it sounds like you have a mole,” Steve shot back, sparing a quick glance back around the room. Russo looked away again but Steve met Castle’s eyes for a beat, then turned back to Rumlow. “Loyalty is rare around these parts.”

“Speaking of loyalty - your girl.” Rumlow stepped back and let out a long breath.

Steve matched him and stepped forward, raising his gun up once more. “If you laid one fucking hand on her–”

“I’ll tell you where she is after we chat, alright? I need a promise from you - to share the territory.”

Steve huffed, lips pursed as he scanned Rumlow’s face. “Tell me where she is.” Steve could hear Bucky shuffling behind him, metal fist clenched, growing just as impatient as Steve was. 

“Nah.” Rumlow shrugged, glancing around the room. “If you won’t negotiate, my lips are sealed. I still need her, gotta clear something up with the cops. Then, I don’t know. I guess she’s nice enough on the eyes, bit thicker than what I usually go for but maybe I’ll get her to warm my bed for a–”

Steve wasn’t an idiot. Rumlow was baiting him. And god fucking damnit it worked. Steve surged ahead, letting out another growl of rage as he attacked Rumlow with his fists.

On the other side of the room, Ward slid over to kick against Bucky’s knee - angering Bucky all the same. Sam rushed in to join them at the first sound of chaos. It wasn’t quite contained and really, it didn’t come as a surprise that everyone in the room was more than prepared for a fight. Rumlow’s extra lackeys seemed more than charged enough for the action. Bucky easily took care of Ward on his own, as Sam darted between helping Steve with Rumlow and the others as Russo tried to keep his distance. 

“Where is she?” Steve had Rumlow on the ground, pummeling his fists into Rumlow’s jaw. He didn’t get a response, as the sound of gunshots sounded out, ending with shards of glass flying across the floor. In a brief moment of hesitation after, Steve took in the rest of the room. 

Russo had slipped out. Castle too. 

“Sam!” Steve stood quickly, keeping his foot against Rumlow’s neck. 

Sam hurried over and tagged in as Steve rushed through the door to follow where the other two had gone. Running towards the staircase, he looked upwards and could hear the distinct sound of hurrying feet and the slamming of a metal door.

He bounded up the stairs towards the roof.

---

The rain continued to fall, although it had at least slowed down to a cool drizzle. It didn’t mean much since you were already soaking wet, though the coat from Castle had helped. It hadn’t really fit you but the extra layer kept you marginally more comfortable, despite the fatigue and hunger setting in. Was anyone else going to check on you? Would Castle come back to help?

Did.. did Steve know what was going on? Although - how would he even find out? Fuck, you kept going over everything again and again and again. The steps you took today, the conversation you had with Sarah a few weeks ago, Steve’s last words to you at your apartment…

You wish things had gone differently. Maybe in a different life or timeline, it might have all worked out.

Gunshots.

You could hear gunshots from somewhere nearby. Downstairs in the building, maybe. Truthfully, at least up on the roof, you were away from the reality of this situation - that these people had guns and clearly weren’t afraid to use them. Up there, in the rain, you could ignore all of that.

But no, here was the glaring reminder. A few more shots sounded out then it seemed to stop. You tried to keep ignoring it, laying your back flat against the wall of the structure until you heard the door open again. You couldn’t even bring yourself to look until you heard someone barking out your name. This time the voice belonged to Russo.

A set of footsteps tracked further onto the roof, but you held your safe position. Russo finally appeared ahead of you, a scowl etched on his face. “I thought Ward tied you up. Whatever, let’s go.” He grabbed your closest wrist, urging you away from your hiding space. You tried to yank yourself away.

“Please, I don’t want to-”

“Bill - come on, can’t we just drop all this?” Frank came into your eyeline next, looking you over quickly then back towards the door. “Rogers isn’t dumb, he’ll follow us up here anyway.”

Your heart jumped at Steve’s name. He was here, he was going to get you away from this.

Russo’s grip tightened on your wrist, though he turned to look at Frank. “The plan remains the same - we need her to talk to Hammond so Rogers can land some jail time. It’s the only way we can get ahead.”

Frank let out a noncommittal sigh. “Rumlow is a fuckin’ idiot. You don’t think his plan is to screw us over later too?”

“I don’t give a shit about that right now,” Russo growled, looking back towards you. “Let’s go.”

Frank hesitated again, but didn’t argue any further. You pleaded again as they took you to the far side of the roof, where the emergency fire escape stairs were. Russo let you go momentarily as he stalked over, peering down towards the stairs. 

“They should hold up, I hope” he said with a shrug, motioning his head for you to go. “Ladies first.”

You shook your head, taking a step back and glancing towards the door instead. “No, I..” You turned on your heel.

A gunshot sounded out behind you, loud and piercing. You screamed, eyes wide as you turned back. Russo was scowling again, holding his gun high as he shot it upwards into the sky. He lowered it slowly, pointing it at you directly instead. If that wasn’t enough of a warning. “Down you go. Now.” 

You glanced at Frank, who remained completely stoic as he looked between you and Russo. 

Suddenly, the door flew open again. You all turned to look.

A wave of relief flooded through you - it was Steve. He called your name as he walked towards you, never breaking his eye contact with you. In an instant, all your worries and doubts and everything seemed to shatter as he looked at you with such gentleness and grace.

Russo let out a hard laugh, waving his gun for a brief moment before aiming it back at you. “No time for your cute reunion. Let us walk away, Rogers.”

“Sweetheart,” Steve didn’t even bother replying to Russo, though he did stop in his tracks when he realized Russo had a gun pointed at you. But, Steve carried on, repeating your name. “Are you okay?”

You swallowed hard, jaw shaking as you nodded. 

Steve softened, for a fraction of a second. You knew he could tell you weren’t being honest. But what were you supposed to do? You were a hostage, soaking wet on a roof, with a gun pointed in your direction - no, you were not okay.

You watched as Steve transformed again, soft eyes replaced by hard lines, a tight jaw. He finally broke your gaze and turned his attention to Russo and Castle. “Let her go and we’ll all walk away from this unscathed.”

A loud laugh escaped Russo. “Right. I don’t think so. We’re walking away from this with the leverage we need.”

You watched as Steve took in a deep breath, then reluctantly put his hands up. “What do you want, Russo? Money, territory, names? What? I’ll give you whatever you want - just put your gun down and let her go.”

“You think I’m an idiot?” Russo shook his head. “No, I’m not playing this game.”

“This isn’t a fucking game,” Steve continued, reaching his hand slowly for his gun. He raised it up then just as quickly tossed it behind himself. “Please, Bill. Just leave her out of this.” 

“Billy..” Frank finally spoke up too. “Let’s call it, okay? Sounds like Rogers is willing to talk and–”

“No.” Russo took a step closer to you, gun firm in hand. “No, we’re going to–”

Before you realized what was happening, you weren’t even standing on your own two feet anymore. A flurry of noises rang out around you - screaming, gunshots, shouting. Someone had wrapped their arms around you – you fell towards the ground – you landed on.. Steve. It was Steve.

He had run towards you in the action, caging you in his arms as you both landed on the rooftop together. Safe. Alive. Steve shielded you with his own body from the noise and chaos happening around you. You didn’t know who had been shooting who, if anyone escaped or made it down the fire escape. All you knew is that you were safe, in Steve’s arms.

Steve was whispering out your name, again and again, like some sort of prayer on his lips. His words were wrapped in apologies, in cries for your safety, in hushed words that begged for reassurance. As everything else seemed to quiet down, he gently pushed himself up to peer down at you. 

“Sweetheart, I’m so–”

“Steve, it’s okay. I’m okay.. I’m..c-cold.” 

He shook his head and quickly shifted again, standing up and helping you back to your feet, too. He shrugged off his own jacket and draped it over you. Slowly, he raised his hand and slid it down the side of your face, wiping away stray droplets of water with his thumb. His palm was warm against your cheek, you could feel his whole heart pulsing as he held you. 

“I’m sorry, baby. I’m–”

“Steve!” Bucky’s voice broke you both from the spell. Steve reluctantly looked away from you, pivoting slightly as he looked towards Bucky running in their direction. Across the roof, both Frank and Russo were on their knees, hands wrapped behind their backs.  A makeshift bandage was wrapped around one of Russo’s biceps.

Wait, had someone shot him? It couldn’t have been Steve, he had put his gun down. Would Frank have..

Bucky leaned in slightly and mumbled into Steve’s ear, then they both looked across the roof towards the adjacent building. Bucky waved in that direction and Steve nodded, then they both turned back to you.

Before Steve could say anything else, you reached for his shirt. “Steve - you..we need to find Hercules. They said.. They..” You closed your eyes tight, head shaking as you tried to form your words. “They were going to take him somewhere to fight. I don’t know if..”

Bucky stood up tall again. He said your name firm, like a promise. “I’ll find him.”

As Bucky left, Steve wrapped his arms around you again - tighter this time. With one hand, he secured your back and the other cradled your head against his chest. He didn’t say anything and you couldn’t find any words either. 

---

You were back at Steve’s apartment. You thought you’d never see those big windows overlooking Brooklyn ever again and yet, there you were. Safe.

Safe and warm, following a long shower in Steve’s guest bathroom. Stripping away your damp clothes and stealing away into the stream for longer than probably necessary had been a nice escape. Especially given that Steve had driven you back to his place in silence - though it wasn’t as awkward as before. It just felt like maybe there were things you both needed to say but couldn’t bring yourself to mention yet.

Before you had left the building earlier, Steve hadn’t let you leave his sight. Well, except for about ten minutes where Bucky hovered over you instead.

Steve brought you inside, back downstairs to that same boardroom and office space. But this time, you weren’t faced with bad guys with guns. Well, the bad guys remained but the guns were gone.

All four of them were bound and seated at a chair. Ward’s head was lolled to the side, Brock had a bloody face, Russo and Castle were mostly left without much damage. But you had a feeling that wasn’t going to last.

Steve squeezed your hand, gently turning you away from looking at them. 

“Hey,” he said quietly, tipping your chin up with his thumb. “Can you tell me what happened? What they did?”

You swallowed hard, eyes wide for a moment as you considered his question. What was he going to do?

“Don’t overthink it, okay? Just tell me what you think I should know.”

You let out a breath then recounted everything. Ward ambushing you on the sidewalk, Brock threatening you, Russo joining in…

“But Frank he..” You finally spared a glance over your shoulder. Frank sat up straight in his chair, resigned to whatever fate awaited him. “He helped me. Tried to protect me, gave me his coat..”

Steve nodded, looking in Frank’s direction the same way. Steve called for Sam, then gave him another nod and Sam went to untie Frank from his chair. 

It was only a few moments later that Bucky showed up with Hercules, who - thank god - looked unharmed, if a little worked up. You couldn’t help but start to cry as you broke away from Steve and rushed to your son. 

But, It wasn’t lost on you how quickly Bucky led you away from the room with your dog. Or how the door shut behind you, leaving Steve and Sam in there with the rest of the men, the overlapping sounds and sounds of distress…

When you finally decided you had wasted enough water and regained all the proper feeling in your body, you shut off the water and let out a long sigh. Outside on the counter, folded neatly beside your warm towel, was some clothes you had left at Steve’s ages ago. Soft and clean layers to keep your temperature steady as you got ready for bed.

You supposed it was a choice you made - agreeing to go home with Steve instead of back to your own apartment. But you knew you wouldn’t be able to sleep there - not tonight. And you knew Steve would insist on staying and keeping guard outside your door anyway. So it made more sense this way.

After you changed, you found Hercules waiting for you in the hallway. You could hear Steve in the living room, speaking quite passionately on his end of a phone call.

“Jim, this is the only deal I’m making. Proof of your dirty cop aside, I’m handing you Rumlow alive on a silver platter, even though I should have let him bleed out. So you have to do this for me. I don’t give a fuck about protocol..” There was a heavy pause. “Every instance of her name on any police report - gone. I don’t want her attached to any of it, do you understand? No trace of her. I don’t care - redact it or burn it. Get that done and I’ll deliver Rumlow to you in the morning. Understood?” 

You knew you probably shouldn’t be listening, but it was your name he was mentioning.

“As for Russo, I’m dealing with that myself. But keep him on your radar. If you need another arrest to clench your win, you can have him once I’m done.”

You quietly slipped into the guest bedroom once you realized his call had ended. Once Hercules followed you in, you shut the door. Fuck. What happened now? Maybe you and Steve needed to talk about all of this - you definitely needed to talk about it.

You heard footsteps coming down the hallway towards the bedrooms and Steve stopped outside your door. You held your breath, wondering if he would say your name or knock. But - nothing. His phone buzzed again and he disappeared into his bedroom.

With a heavy sigh, you leaned against the door. 

---

Mentally, Steve was exhausted.

Physically, his energy peaked in the midst of the action and hadn’t seemed to peter off yet. 

You were safe, you were safe, you were safe.

Why couldn’t he calm down? You were one wall away, falling asleep. Safe. He got to you before anything critical happened. Christ, nothing should have happened in the first place.

Following his long frustrating phone call with Rhodes, he wanted to talk to you. He wanted to say everything that was weighing down his heart - but your door was closed and he couldn’t even find it in himself to knock.

You were probably even angrier with him than before - given that this was all his fault. But that was fine with him. He could deal with your anger if that meant you had any feelings towards him left. Anger counted.

He rinsed off in the shower then pulled on a pair of pajama pants before falling into bed, not that he was tired. His brain was wired and maybe an allnighter was in his future. 

Steve sent off a few last messages to Bucky and Sam, then discarded his phone on the nightstand. He leaned back against the headboard and–

There was a knock at his bedroom door. You were knocking. He swung his legs off the bed and hurried to open the door, just as you were about to push it open yourself.

“Hi,” you said quietly, meeting his eyes in the low light streaming in from his lamp.

“Are you okay?” Steve asked, scanning you for any signs of distress.

You shrugged, drawing in a deep breath. Then Steve took a step back, waving his arm to invite you in. You released your lungs slowly, nodding and following him inside. Wordlessly, he climbed into the bed and offered the open blanket to you, arms wide. You just nodded again, crawling in and finding a spot - your spot - underneath his arms.

---

CHAPTER 07 - CHAPTER 09

[astra-galaxie]

I DID IT!! Here’s the whole thing copy pasted from Google docs!!

The Player’s general skills and implied personality + some stuff abt them! (as far as i can gather, at least, tell me if i missed smth!)

*Note that these skills do not include case specific stuff (like the time they discovered a new species in Pacific Bay)

-Exceptionally skilled at handling the forensic kit,in S1, Jones had challenged the player to uncrack a code while he recites the alphabet from A, and the player cracked the code just before he hit the letter F. It takes about a few seconds, so that says a lot.

-The player has freaky intuition skills in general. I mean, in quite literally every case, they figure out what evidence is needed, what could count as evidence, and searches through things most would gloss over. Their partners acknowledge this a lot, more in the first cases since they just met.

-Can keep a level head even in high stress or even dangerous situations even when their partners cant, whether its during or after the cases. Jones addressed this after court quite a few times in the first season. Also, the player’s able to calm down whoever thier with or

*Add on, in S4, while facing Cappechi & Finley for the first time, he managed to intimidate Isaac on both occasions, however, the player remained composed enough to be able to file evidence against them.

-Works out. In Good Girls dont die, a case in S1, while Grace tries to convince Martha to calm down, she states that the player has already kicked down the door. Like, kick. The player probably doesnt even have any special gear on them, so either the door is weak or, the more likely theory is that the player got dem legs frfr

-Has quite the memory. Easiest case to get this info from is during S4, in the case Eyes Wide Shut, player and Isaac identify a rice makeup composition on the item, Player can easily recall that 17 cases back, which give or take a few, is about a monthish? That Madam Xiang was wearing it. Mind you, at this stage in case Eyes Wide Shut, the duo had only spoken to Madam Xiang once, and she never mentioned the makeup.

-The Bureau themselves asked for the player to join them, that in itself is already a accomplishment, since the Bureau is like, the elite of the elite in the police world.

-Their temper seems to be much milder, or at least, more controlled. Its more evident with Frank and David (S1) since the chiefs often say the player is much calmer than them, hell, David got in trouble for being too brash and got so many complaints he had to file paperwork.

-They do indeed make mistakes, one of my friends irl kept saying the player was a Mary Sue esque kind, but in S3, they were also led on by the Warren guy after he framed the Guru, and they were kidnapped by Karen in S2. If they were so called ‘Mary Sues’, they’d probably figure out a way to not get captured and be the person whos left unscathed and babied by the team.

-Maybe a similar point, but they have sharp eyes and possibly very good eyesight. In a case with Jonah as a partner in S3 during one of the Additional Investigations, the player spots a tent from afar up a mountain. Not to mention its always them who finds everything lol

-The player is good at calming down their partners or whoever is working with them tbh. Like every time one of their case partners are loosing hope, breaking down, feeling impatient or angry, the player snaps them back to their senses.

-They arent quite up to date with some stuff, or simply put, most likely arent that geeky like Jones is, or probably that interested in acting and stuff, in S4 when Isaac asks them how they have no idea who Dolly Darnell (famous actress) and a famous chess master is. Personally would love to think they’d love to listen to their friends and team talk about certain personal interests of thiers.

-Most definitely has a good physique. In S2, Roxie comments that they fit perfectly into a diving suit, which is typically quite tight, so we can assume their physical health is in good or in its prime, in S7, Ben mentions the player has great reflexes for being able to dodge a chupabara attack.

-Can handle a gun better than the average policeman could, probably. In S4, they got into a gunfight with their team against Capecchi and his men, and the team won, so probably suggests that either the rest did most of the work, or the player is good enough to aim and shoot down a whole bunch of tough ahh men.

-Has better driving skills than Jones

-The chiefs often say the player is a rolemodel of what the rest of the team members should be, often, its Frank and Jones being reprimanded and being compared to the Player.

-Implied to be a pretty sarcastic and humorous person, whenever the person their working with for a case or a suspect makes a unfunny or less than tasteful joke, or just does smth weird in general, they always tell the player to ‘not look at them like that’

*Jones seems to be the one saying this the most, including Frank because he teases the player a lot as well.

-Patient. The cheifs say the player is patient, and im sure having Frank work with them would make their temper flare at leats three times in a single hour if the player wasnt a patient person.

-Knows how to handle and drag themselves + their team out of wallowing after a crisis. In S3, Ripley praises the player for being able to rise up after her ‘death’ so quickly, and solving her ‘death’ as well.

-Thier spice tolerence is off the charts, could bet money that they definitely could eat a few hot peppers and only complain of a bit of bite on their tongue. Even Rita admits their tolerance is higher and she’s tough as hell.

-Reliable adult, probably good or decent with children. They were the adult Matilda came running to (in Grimsborough S1) while her own parents were arguing. Jones said this as well when reprimanding the dad.

-My friend (yes the same one) keeps saying that the player would be homophobic?? What?? At least one of their core team members are gay as hell, cmon bruh

-Is most definately empathic and more adept at handling sensitive cases, whether by sensitive, its a matter of whether the press gets ahold and it could be bad, or its sensitive like family and personal matters get involved. When their partners make a distasteful comment or joke, no matter how mild, the player is implied to have told them off (ahem, Jones, Frank and Roxie)

-Good at undercover work, its shows in S4 during the last district, does the S4 part where they have to break Florence Samuels out with Rose count?

-They solve cases within the day or in a few hours, the latest they’ve ever finished a case was in the evening and then again, the player had only started on it in the afternoon.

-A kind person in general. I mean, for one, if i was a homicide investigator and every time i do an investigation, multiple people want my help?? I’d bail, nuh uh. AND not to mention, its time consuming bc theres always the need for analysis, and with sometimes, personal and professional problems get mixed up halfway.

-They most definitely have the money to live comfortably, they have the money to take James Savage for shopping for a new funeral suit and outfit, and they recieve so much spare cash from suspects during the AI.

-I feel like they probably have a good fashion sense, but on that point, can we talk about their closet size?? They get so many articles of clothing, they would definitely be the kind to overdress on every occasion and still look fabulous.

-I would not be surprised if its end up being revealed that they were a reformed thief or some wild shit like that, how does a rookie officer know how to crack a lock in seconds??

-Do you guys think their banned from being the seeker whenever the office decides to play hide and seek because their so good at finding stuff? Like, the last time they were the seeker they probably caught everyone in less than 30 minutes or some shit

-In addition to that helping people shit, the player’s either just energetic in general or their ass is running on coffee and pure willpower because i CANNOT do what their doing, their partners dont even stay consistent throughout the entire AI, and sometimes, in the official investigation itself

-Player’s a positive influence on the people around them, and this prob my nth time mentioning them, but JONES AND FRANK!! Grace says at the end of S1 that the Player’s influenced them positively a lot, and Karen says that as well abt Player’s influence on Frank.

-More on the energy thing, they work overtime so often im surprised they havent asked for a raise or something (then again, the chiefs probably automatically gave them one anyways, maybe even more)

-Not afraid of them high rankers!! S4 for example, no matter how many times Commisioner Baldwin threatened them, they are not afraid, gives 0 fucks, did not gaf even tho Andrea told them to leave Jazz Town before the hurricane kills them

-Player def got a strong stomach and do not care about getting ther hands dirty, they’ve seen so many dead bodies in the most gruesome settings possible, and they dig through trash every case, they have definitely seen…stuff. Oh yeah, they’ve seen so much raunchy and sexual stuff I don’t think they’d be too fazed anymore.

-Offically, including the S4, S6 and S7 cases, they’ve solved 370 cases in their entire career, including a cold case in S5, maybe indirectly, a few more in S5 due to the Rocket Cow killer being discovered, and a few more side murders due to how many serial killers they’ve arrested, so the victims get justice.

-They get offered or are the ones paying the first round for drinks quite a lot, so I’d assume that either they dont drink at all, or they can hold their alcohol well.

-Has gained fame as both as a detective world wide and citywide, AND in Pacific Bay as a co owner of a movie and had their cases featured in another movie! I’d assume their movies are out by S3 or by S5.

-Magic hands, anything damaged can get so well repaired its like it was never broken, or the partners and the suspects are just trying to make the player not feel bad lol

-They seem to not mind… leftovers, or anything that is edible but looks or taste unappealing… I mean, if we get a burger everytime a prisoner gives up their prison slop to the player, does that imply they ate it no problemo??

Sidenote: it feels like I’m putting the player on a pedestal at some parts… I assure you I’m not trying to 🥲🥲

Sorry, it took so long for me to answer this! I FINALLY found the time to sit down, read and react to it!

And to start this off: HOLY SHIT!😲 (I mean this in the best way possible!)

(Live footage of me giving this post as much love as possible. Yes, I am secretly an alien gremlin!😉)

I'm going to try to go through each section at a time, so prepare for a long post!

-Sometimes, I wonder if anyone else has training when it comes to the forensic kit... I remember Jack claiming to be a pro at the vacuum tool, but we NEVER see him use it! Or any of our partners, for that matter!🙄

-It wouldn't surprise me if the player was psychic! Or at least partly! I don't think I've seen anyone make a psychic player OC yet, but it would be an interesting concept!

-After everything the player has seen, even just in the first season alone, it's no surprise they know how to keep their cool!

(At least Isaac got more confident at dealing with Finley! Though we can't blame him for being scared of Mad Dog!)

-Kicking down a door is no easy task! (Not that I've ever tried it.) So the player must try to keep themself in shape! And clearly, they don't skip leg day!🦾🦿

-I wish I had the player's memory sometimes... My working memory is slowly going downhill! And yeah, remembering something as minor as someone wearing rice makeup from months ago is impressive! Esapiclly considering everything that's happened between the cases!

-I have the theory that if CC had continued, we would have been recruited into the GIA or another secret spy agency like we were for the Bureau! After all, their resume would be as impressive as it is long!

-Some characters could learn from the player and their ability to control their temper... (*cough* Frank *cough*)

-I can see where your friend got the "Mary Sue" idea from. The player is constantly being praised for their work, but they still make mistakes and learn from them, like you said!

-Forget 20/20 vision; the player has the best eyes in the world! They must be the champion in Eye Spy and Hidden Object games!

-If the player ever decided to change careers, they could be a therapist! Or an anger management coach!

-With how busy the player is, it's unsurprising they don't have time to be up-to-date with some things...

As for the S4 thing, I like the idea of the player being from away and not knowing about Concordian celebrities, unlike their partners!

-In conjunction with the strength one, the player must take care of themself by eating well (ignoring all the free hamburgers they get...) and staying active!

-I think it's stated that the team worked together to defeat Capecchi and his men, but the player obviously knows how to handle a gun in order to stand their ground against them!

-Well, Jones did crash at least once that we know of, unlike the player...😉

-With how good the player is implied to be, I bet they would win employee of the month every month! Move over, Sponge Bob! We've got a new champ in town!

-Sometimes, I wish we had dialogue options just to see the jokes and witty remarks the player could make!

-The player must have the patience of a saint to put up with some of the people and things they have to deal with!

-For the amount of shit they find themself in, the player knows a thing or two about how to get out of it and drag others out with them!

-Given that Rita looked like she was on fire while eating the salsa, the player either has a steal tongue or no feeling in it to handle eating all that spice!

-I like to think the player is good with children too. After all, almost every time we meet a child in the game, they seem to love the player!

-I can't see how your friend came to the homophobic conclusion either! The player works with several LGBTQ+ teammates and interacts with even more LGBTQ+ characters outside the teams! Are we sure they played the same CC game?

-The player is one of the game's most empathetic people. Even after so much death and pain, they still are. And they know how to stay professional when working on a sensitive case.

-I'd count it as evidence of them being good at undercover work! They're also constantly undercover in S6 and manage to fool nearly everyone they meet!

-I've always wondered about the timeline for solving a case... I swear they finish every case within a shift! I think the only one I canonly recall taking more than a day was Anatomy of Murder when Jones talks about reading his book before bed during chapters 2&1 (I think...).

-The player has a heart of gold, and it's a miracle they still do by the end of the series!✨

-They must be LOADED! But if people keep giving them free money on top of their job income, it's no surprise they probably don't have to worry about money!

-With all the clothes and accessories they get throughout the series, they could have a whole floor in their house dedicated to their closet! Hopefully, they donate anything they no longer want.

-A common theme among OC players is that they always have a secret past! I'm sure someone must have made one with a past as a thief or something to help explain how they're so good at picking locks!

-Agreed. They are only allowed to participate in hide-and-go-seek by being the timekeeper.

-The player must live off of coffee, energy drinks, or SOMETHING to be so energetic! I know I wouldn't be so excited to do extra work by helping people after solving a murder! I hope they get extended vacations to make it even!

-Player, spreading positivity wherever they go!✨

-They better get paid WELL for everything they do for their job, teammates, cities and citizens!

-They've got nerves of steel and the bravery of a god to stand up against so much higher authority! They've even talked back to royalty before, too!

-For how often they search through the trash, they either have no sense of smell or the strongest stomach in the world!

-The player's case record is unbeatable! And they solved all those cases in under a decade, according to the undefined timeline!

-I think the drink thing stopped after S2 (or at least I don't remember it happening as much after that season), but they are still often invited for drinks one way or another!

-I'll never know how they weren't recognized in S7, given how famous they are! For changing to such a secret job when they joined the supernatural hunters, it's a surprise they weren't recognized! Especially considering we run into past characters!🤔

-The player is probably the first person people go to after breaking something! We'll never know how they manage to fix things so perfectly! Unless they really ARE magic!🤔

-The player never does say no to free food... Even when they really should! How they never got food poisoning (Jones flashback intensify) will remain a mystery!

-Don't worry; other characters put the player on a pedestal for us!😉

Phew! That was a workout! Hopefully, we didn't lose you guys!😅

I can tell you put a lot of work into this, so let me be the first to say good job!🥳✨

NOW TAKE A BREAK! You deserve it after creating this doc!

You captured a lot of the player's traits and successes! And I look forward to seeing what others think about your analysis! And if there's anything they think should be added! After all, it is always helpful to have some extra input!😊

[updatebug]

Truly tragic that we don’t get more of season one TMA gang and their investigations. Like Tim was flirting his way into confidential files and straight up stealing. Man was combing through thousands of incident files just in case something relevant came up instead of just going ah well I've done my reasonable diligence like a normal person would. Sasha was ‘turning up’ security footage and private info that there is no way she just happened to find and willingly followed mr ominous knife hands into a graveyard like that's not the start of a horror movie if ever I've seen one. Martin broke into some guys basement (twice!) to stick it to his boss. And Jon. Oh Jon. You can put the neurotic obsessive in a management position, but you cannot take the neurotic obsession out of the man. I truly believe that feral, around the world let's have tea with a murders and shake their hands is just an extreme (traumatised) version of normal researcher Jon.

I want their scoobie doo, CSI, Mystery Files investigations of supernatural events. I want Hawaiian shirt Tim seducing info out of nurses while running on two hours of sleep and coffee. I want Sasha with UKs version of Area 51's passwords bookmarked on her phone. I want Martin to punch a man (he has it in him, I believe in him).

[cyanidas]

⚠️SHSL Detective ! Kazuichi Souda 🕵️‍♂️

I'm hoping to make a small series of fun lil sprite edits with my talentswap AU that scrambles the talents of Class 77 and Class 78, and has its own weird lil story to go with it

(someday I'll think of a cool shorthand title. maybe. perhaps. as a treat. i would also like to write this story someday... we will see, since evidently im allergic to projects)

Headcanons? Headcanons for Detective Souda?

(also a lil comparison between this one and normal Kazu, and some AU info)

For this AU, characters' original body types, general interests/inclinations, and much of their personality is intact - the only parts of their personality that change are things influenced by their line of work alone. A lot of who we are and who we become tends to be influenced by our interests, which in turn is influenced by our upbringing, which also influences who we are... but I intend to keep the characters as close to how they are outside of their original talents as possible.

This AU also swaps the end twists between the 1st and 2nd games, and in some way keeps original relationships (like Makoto and Kyoko's partnership, and Souda's inclination towards Sonia). Some personality aspects are allowed to bloom or forced into hiding, depending on the upbringing I imagine would have been needed to allow these talents to shine within them and rise to Ultimate status.

ok Souda Headcanon Time:

The teeth are actually natural - he has a disorder which effects a number of things but especially effects his teeth, which are sharp as a result (something that evidently exists?? tho i forget the name, and it's not as perfect as drawn here ofc but.)

I think og-Souda would have a great skincare routine, one that Detective Souda lacks, since he never gained the motivation nor inspiration to care more about his appearance in front of others. So, he has some zits.

When he was very young, he was living with his father in their bike shop, but his dad went too far one night. A worried neighbor called authorities on them after witnessing his dad's aggression. At some point, the situation tips over, and Kazu's removed from his father's custody.

The detective investigating his father's abuse took care of him, and eventually adopted him after his dad was incarcerated. New Dad was not physically abusive, and genuinely cared for his new son, but due to his line of work he wound up kind of a sad sack of a person, so he's still a pretty cringefail/wetkitten father figure.

Kazuichi would accidentally stumble across his files around the house, and witnessed far more corpses than he likely should have as a child. Terrified at first, he eventually suppressed his fears in favor of trying to become a stronger person, and insisted on applying himself to learn his caretaker's line of work... inadvertently witnessing even more death and dying than he should have, from a young age.

As a young teen, he took interest in therapy and self care, and came to realize his trauma regarding his father and his guardian / upbringing. New Dad has his full love and respect and he tries to change for his son. This kind of expands Kazu's self-respect a little, while adding new depths to his hatred/fear of violence and conflict.

Due to his new caretaker, he never went to the same schools, and lost his original friends as a result - so he doesn't suffer from the same trust issues as OG-Souda, and as a result, easily clings to the people around him and allows himself to get lost in his head a tad more often than OG.

He specializes in forensic investigative work, because his brain is still wired better for calculations, spatial reasoning, and mathematical speculation.

He also still loves learning about how things work, and now, he's especially interested in how things have happened / come to be - finding satisfaction in analyzing evidence, instead of reverse-engineering parts/machines.

He even still has a mild interest in mechanics! But he is firmly convinced that being handy and technical is nothing to boast about.

He is also now convinced that he wouldn't make a good repairman/mechanic/engineer, anything of the sort. Part of this apprehension is due to his hatred of his father.

He is still pretty timid, and jumps easily at any sudden or loud noise, is afraid of the paranormal, gets upset easily when socializing, and feels terrified when there is any perceived threat.

However, death and dead bodies are some of the things that no longer frighten him. Upset, sure, but nothing like OG-Souda. He sees dead bodies as objects to investigate and solve, as opposed to feeling the horror of seeing a deceased fellow human, or feeling too overwhelmed if it's someone he knew. Because of this, it's easy for him to get lost in his work and feel totally disconnected while investigating.

[matan4il]

Daily update post:

Today, two Palestinian terrorists from the city of Hevron had carried out a combined, multi-scene terrorist attack in the city of Ra'anana, killing one woman in her 70's and wounding at least 17 more people. The exact details are still being investigated, but the two terrorists are said to be from one family, 24 and 44 years old, they were denied a work permit in Israel due to terrorist activity in the past, but someone in Ra'anana agreed to hire them illegally. They have both been arrested. The combined method they used was a stabbing and vehicular terrorist attack, they stabbed people, stole the first car, used it to run people over until they crashed it, then they stole a second, then a third car, and continued ramming into people across several streets, before they were stopped. 7 of the injured are reportedly kids, and at least 3 are seriously wounded.

As 136 hostages are still held captive in Gaza, 100 days after Oct 7, we got some data on the treatment of those released roughly 50 days ago: 85 are still under a nurse's supervision, 2 are still hospitalized, 54 are receiving mental health treatment of one type or another, only 18 have returned home, all the rest are still displaced, out of 40 kidnapped kids, 38 were released, but only 21 have returned to the education system, some in their own schools, some in schools improvised for their evacuated community.

In Turkey, an Israeli soccer player, Sagiv Jehezkel, who plays for a local team, scored a goal for it, and raised his hand, revealing to the cameras that on his bandage, he wrote "100 days," drew the Star of David, and added the date of Oct 7. It's obviously a gesture to the Israeli victims of Hamas, the ones murdered during or hurt by the massacre, and the ones still held in captivity.

For this, Sagiv was condemned by the Turkish Football Association, suspended from his team, which annoounced he'd be fired, and then he was ARRESTED and interrogated by Turkish police. For making a humane gesture to honor his country's victims. This is how Sagiv was portrayed in an antisemitic Turkish cartoon, with blood dripping from his lips, evoking the antisemitic image of the Jews who feed on the blood of non-Jewish kids:

Sagiv has been released after an appearance at court, and flown back to Israel immediately, but the head of the Israel Football Association said they're still worried for 2 more Israeli soccer players and 2 Israeli basketballers, who are currently playing for Turkish teams.

Shabak, the Israeli equivalent of the FBI (also sometimes referred to in English as Shin Beit), has confirmed today that Iran is operating social media platforms in Israel, that allow it to harass the families of the Israeli hostages, and Israeli security forces (for example, by exposing their addresses, or sending them flower bouquets with offensive messages). The Islamist regime of Iran is also using these to collect from surveys personal info on Israeli citizens.

I wanna share with you this screenshot from the article, as a reminder that just because someone says online that they're Jewish, or puts "Jewish" in their account name, doesn't make it so.

The chief rabbi of South Africa, Rabbi Warren Goldstein, in protest of his country's decision to file a false lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice, has changed the customary prayer for the well being of the country. He said: "This government is on the wrong side of history. Its support of Iran and its proxies - Hamas and Hezbollah - encourages a global Jihad,and harms Jews and innocent people worldwide. It's impossible to pray for such a government."

This is 36 years old Osama Abu Assa.

He was a Bedouin, from the village of Tel Sheva. On Oct 7, he was at the Nova music festival, and one of about 367 people who were murdered there. I got to hear several people talking about what a huge heart Osama had, how he was all about giving to others and helping people. May his memory be a blessing.

(for all of my updates and ask replies regarding Israel, click here)

[milkywayhou]

YOU'VE GOT EMAIL (König X OC: Medical Student!Snow) PART I

Summary: When the Colonel from some Private Military Corporation group accidentally send KorTac's secret file via email to a random civilian girl.

or

König send wrong email to a wrong person

TWs: A lot curse words (from Snow), both of them being passive-aggressive, slow burn (kinda). I just wrote this for fun

Words Count: 3k (That's a lot for an email lol)

--

From: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

To: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

02/28/23 at 03:42 pm

Subject: KorTac Tactical Operations File E12345 Classification: Top Secret

Lieutenant,

Apologies for the inappropriate transmission. As head of KorTac Special Forces, securing sensitive documents is of utmost priority. Please confirm deletion of the attached file and we’ll consider the matter closed.

While I understand your confusion receiving such a file unsolicited, KorTac business must remain confidential. I trust a responsible professional such as yourself understands the necessity of discretion in such matters. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if any other issues arise.

Colonel König

KorTac Commanding Officer

--

From: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

To: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

02/28/23 at 07:12 pm

Subject: RE: Creepy email

Excuse me,

I have no idea what you’re talking about. All I know is I got some weird files from “KorTac Tactical” that I definitely did NOT ask for. Do you know how scary it is to get secret military documents out of nowhere? I thought it was one of my friends pranking me at first.

Instead of lecturing me about deleting things, maybe you should be more careful who you send your “top secret” info to. I’m just trying to study neurology over here, not get dragged into some clandestine Special Forces stuff.

Lighten up a little, yeah? It was an honest mistake I’m sure. No harm done.

Snow

--

From: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

To: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

02/28/23 at 08:02 pm

Subject: RE: RE: Creepy email

Ms. Farron,

I can assure you there was no “creepy email” or files sent from this office. As Commander of one of the world’s premier private military factions, securing classified intel is of utmost priority. If some file was erroneously transmitted to your address in error, it did not originate from my users.

While I understand the desire to shrug off mistakenly received sensitive documents, national security does not warrant such lackadaisical treatment. If you have relevant data in your possession, basic courtesy requires replying to the original correspondent – in this case, myself – to ascertain the source of error.

Do let me know if you retrieve any files in question. And in future, a bit more discretion and less indignation may serve you well when inadvertently encountering restricted information networks. Consider this a learning experience.

Regards,

Colonel König

KorTac Commanding Officer

--

From: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

To: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

02/28/23 at 08:22 pm

Subject: RE: RE: RE: Creepy email

Hi Colonel Tightpants,

Thank you for the condescending lecture. As I’ve said THREE times now, I never got any files from you or KorTac or wherever before. All I know is I woke up to an ominous email saying “Top Secret KorTac files” or something. Pretty annoying/alarming for a simple student!

And excuse me for not dropping everything to thoroughly investigate a mistake that wasn’t even mine. Some of us have actual classes to study for, not play secret agent all day.

If you’re so worried about security breaches, maybe focus on your end instead of harassing innocent people via multiple snobby emails. I’ve got better things to do than argue in circles with Mr. High-and-Mighty.

Please remove me from your contact list going forward. And do try to lighten up a little!

Regards,

Snow

P.S. The file is attached. I called it “Creepy Email From Creepy Colonel” for your convenience. Have fun decrypting your own mystery ;)

--

From: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

To: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

02/28/23 at 09:42 pm

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: Creepy email

Ms. Farron,

I will not be spoken to in such a disrespectful and unprofessional manner. While your frustrations are understandable, maintaining proper decorum and respect for sensitive operational matters is not an optional courtesy – it is imperative.

You’re accusations of “harassment” are as unfounded as they are insulting. Do not mistake my patience and courtesy thus far for weakness. Should any real documents surface from my network in error, I expect their immediate return without petulant games or sass.

As a private military organization operating across the globe, security is no light concern for this command. If unable to grasp even the basic responsibility of confirming received documents' origins for the sake of national safety, perhaps the world of intelligence is beyond your current realm of comprehension.

Consider this your final warning. Any further unsubstantiated claims or uncooperative behavior will be met with the full weight of legal action and your academic institution will be notified accordingly. Is that absolutely clear, Ms. Farron?

Reply confirming so or cease contact immediately. I will not tolerate insubordination, especially from an civilian amateur dabbling where she has no clearance. Maintain discretion as instructed or suffer consequences – the choice is yours.

Colonel König

KorTac Commanding Officer

--

From: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

To: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

03/01/23 at 09:29 am

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Creepy Email

Colonel High-Horse,

Spare me your thinly veiled threats. If you’re so sure I have hide some Top Secret Files™, by all means come search my dorm room yourself since you clearly don’t believe a word I say. Oh wait, you can’t – because there’s NOTHING.

Maybe take a break from power tripping over email and try listening to the person who’s actually involved for once. Not my fault if your big bad security systems have holes. But I guess acknowledging mistakes isn’t very military, is it?

You wanna see uncooperative and petulant? Keep harassing me and I’ll forward our whole conversation to the national news. Something tells me they’d love to hear how easily “the world’s premier private military” loses confidential files.

So for the last time – I did NOT receive ANY files from you or KorTac aside the one you accidentally send. If you’re incapable of comprehending that, then you’re dumber than you look. Consider THIS your final warning to lay off before I take action, Colonel Tightass.

Snow

Formerly Civilian, Currently Pissed Off

--

From: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

To: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

03/01/23 at 08:55 am

Subject: Enough

Ms. Farron,

Your insubordination has crossed several lines. While I sought to resolve this discreetly, you force my hand with threats and insults. Know that I do not respond kindly to such provocation.

If you insist upon escalating this beyond reason, so be it. However, tread carefully – you are ignorant of forces beyond your control. Dare to sully KorTac’s name to fuel your petulance, and all your academic and personal records will undergo… thorough review.

Accidents happen, as you claim. But any damage to our operations will not be taken lightly, no matter your perceived innocence. Heed my words well, girl – you do not wish to become an enemy of this command.

Consider this last attempt at civil discourse. Cease contact and let this die, or suffer consequences you cannot imagine. The choice, as before, remains yours.

I expect no further correspondence. You are now on formal notice – proceed at your own peril.

Colonel König

KorTac Commanding Officer

--

From: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

To: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

03/01/23 at 11:38 pm

Subject: Go to Hell

You want a fight, you’ll get one you pompous prick. Your “command” and threats mean nothing to me.

If anything happens to my academic career or personal life, the world will know exactly who’s responsible. I don’t care how elite you think you are.

Bring whatever you’ve got – I’m not afraid of some borderline psychotic and his glorified gun club. You want a target? Consider it painted on your back from now on.

Have fun trying to intimidate me, ASSHOLE. You just made the worst enemy of your pathetic life.

Goodbye forever. Don’t bother responding – you’re officially dead to me.

Snow Farron

Future Doctor, Current Pain in Your Ass

--

From: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

To: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

03/02/23 at 01:29 am

Subject: So Be It

Foolish girl. You have no concept of the forces you now contend with. Consider carefully the hole you’ve dug, for there will be no mercy if you proceed.

However, my integrity will not permit baseless threats against civilians. If you agree to cease hostilities and let this dissolve quietly, no further action will be taken. Your record and life will remain untouched.

The choice is simple – walk away unscathed, or persist in this idiocy and face consequences beyond imagination. Think carefully on your next move, little one. Tread no further, and this can end.

You have one hour for a sensible reply before measures are taken. Make them count.

Colonel König

KorTac Commanding Officer

--

From: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

To: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

03/03/23 at 02:04 am

Subject: Bite Me

Yeah, I’m real scared of your “forces” and “consequences beyond imagination.” Give me a break.

You think I’m going to bow down to your threats just because you’re some big shot Colonel? Please. I’ve dealt with way scarier than pompous bully babies like you.

So do your worst, tough guy. Come at me with everything you’ve got. I promise it still won’t be enough to make me back down from a pissant fraud like you.

Your “hour” can go fuck itself. You want to end this? Then stay the hell away from me and leave me alone forever. Otherwise this isn’t over by a long shot.

Tick tock, pal. Your time is running out and so is your chance to slink away with your tail between your legs. Better figure out your next move fast!

Not holding my breath for anything “sensible” though. Later, loser!

Snow “Untouchable” Farron

--

From: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

To: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

03/05/23 at 11:09 pm

Subject: wassup bitchhhhh

Hey asshooooole its ur girl Snow again!! Had a few dranks w/ friends to forget ur stupid email but the pain remainsss lolll

Jus wanted to let u kno ur still a total dickhead no matter how drunk I get. Probly shouldn’t be emailing u since last time but fuck it YOLO right???

Anyway ur threats meant nothing I had a blast tonight. Try n stop me next time I feel like partying fuck face!!! No1 messes w snow n gets away with it

Also saw some guy who looked like u at the bar what a coincidink lol. Hope he feels as stupid as u in the morn ;))

Hope ur having a shit night missing out on the fun. Don’t reply I prob wont even remember this! Byeeeeeee loser stay mad <33333

Xoxo drunk snow

--

From: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

To: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

03/06/23 at 01:50 am

Subject: RE: wassup bitchhhhh

Well well, what have we here. It seems our intrepid Dr. Farron has landed herself in an inebriated state this night.

Can’t say I blame you for seeking alcohol’s comfort after our little disagreement. Dealing with my “stupid emails” and “threats” must have been terribly traumatic. You have my deepest sympathies, truly.

While unwise to conduct militarized business intoxicated, I’ll admit your drunken ramblings provided some mild amusement. The imagery of you partying it up solely to spite me was rather quaint. Do try to stay safe in your revelries, dear – would hate for some unfortunate accident.

As for your daring insinuation about encountering my likeness at a bar, I can assure you my nights are occupied with matters far more pressing than drinking. But I appreciate the laugh, strange as it came from such a belligerent tongue.

Enjoy your hangover, Snow. And sleep well – who knows what mischief tomorrow may bring.

Regards,

Colonel König

KorTac Commanding Officer

P.S. Do refrain from over-indulging too often. Wouldn’t want those fine medical skills to dull prematurely, now would we?

--

From: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

To: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

03/06/23 at 05:28 am

Subject: RE: RE: wassup bitchhhhh

Yeah yeah, laugh it up. We all do dumb shit when we’re drunk occasionally. At least I have an excuse, unlike you and your constant stick up the ass personality.

That being said, I suppose I owe you an apology for that ridiculous email last night. Not my finest moment, to say the least. But you seem to bring out the worst in me, so.

Consider us even for any “amusement” you got at my expense. I’m suffering enough with this hangover from hell as it is.

Just so we’re clear though – I’m not some damsel for you to patronize or imply threats towards. Keep your smug sarcasm, I don’t need it. We’re done here, got it?

Good. Now fuck off and leave me alone to die in peace, Dickhead von Buzzkill. And next time – lay off the sauce OR lay off me. Your choice, Colonel

Snow “Moderately Sober But Still Pissed” Farron

--

From: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

To: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

03/06/23 at 09:33 am

Subject: RE: RE: RE: wassup bitchhhhh

Alright Colonel Buzzkill, I’ll admit my constant insults aren’t getting us anywhere. As much as I hate to inflate that already massive ego of yours, maybe there was a tiny little misunderstanding somewhere along the way.

Med school has been kicking my ass lately and I’ve been on edge. Between the mounting student loans, endless assignments, and stressful exams, I’m about one Red Bull away from a full breakdown. Not that you probably care about such peasant problems.

Anyways, my point is – I may have overreacted a bit to this whole email mixup. Even if it WAS totally not my fault *eyes emoji*. Can’t a girl blow off some steam without the world’s most uptight Colonel threatening her into an early grave?

Lay off with the intimidation tactics already. I said I was sorry for getting drunk and belligerent, more or less. What more do you want, my first born child in sacrifice?

Just, try to lighten up a little if we have to keep interacting for god knows what reason. I’m too exhausted to keep fighting a war on 20 different fronts. Truce?

Overworked and Underpaid,

Snow

--

From: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

To: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

03/06/23 at 09:01 pm

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: wassup bitchhhhh

Oh? So the fledgling doctor deigns to admit a modicum of culpability at last. How gracious of her highness to acknowledge her part in this debacle, no matter how begrudgingly.

Though I’ll not deny deriving a certain satisfaction from seeing you squirm, that was never my aim. As Commander of KorTac, security of sensitive data is no laughing matter – a concept you seemed unwilling or unable to grasp at the time.

However, as one engaged in higher pursuits of intellectual rigor and public service, I can understand the pressures that come with such territory. Medical education is a noble yet arduous path, as I’m sure even your addled mind comprehends on occasion.

Very well, Ms. Farron – consider this matter put to rest. A temporary ceasefire it is, for the sake of future global stability if nothing else. But tread not again where you have been warned, or I shall not be so gracious next transgression.

Do try to mind your health and studies in lieu of drunken revelry. Wouldn’t want to lose such a pugnacious spirit to frivolity or misfortune. Now, do run along – no doubt some looming assignment awaits its dissection.

Colonel König

KorTac Commanding Officer

--

From: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

To: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

03/07/23 at 02:19 am

Subject: Aw, you DO care!

Aww, is that actually concern I detect underneath all the big important Colonel bluster? I’m touched, really. Who knew you had a soft spot for lowly students like me.

Admit it – you just can’t stand the thought of little ol’ me disappearing in some “frivolous misfortune.” You’d miss having me around to aggravate that permanent stick up your butt!

But don’t worry, it’ll take more than a silly paper or two to take me out of commission. Unlike some people, I actually know how to unwind without threatening international incidents *cough cough*.

All jokes aside though, truce accepted on my end too. Maybe now we can move past wanting to strangle each other every time we’re in the same email chain. Small victories, right?

Anyways, gotta get back to the grind. Thanks for not making me regret extending the olive branch…this time. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do!

Your Favorite Almost-Doctor,

Snow

--

From: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

To: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

03/07/23 at 08:05 am

Subject: RE: Aw, you DO care!

Cease this incessant jesting at once, fraulein. I neither “care” for you as anything more than a potential security concern, nor possess any jovial qualities to “aggravate.”

A commander's duties require maintaining surveillance of volatile elements wherever they arise. You have thus far proven yourself quite the unpredictable variable, so forgive my reluctance to take eyes fully off the matter.

As for your studies, consider this the only encouragement they shall receive from me. Master your craft with distinction, then mayhaps our paths need not cross again in the future. Though I admit the thought of you disappearing into obscurity does bring its own satisfactions to ponder.

Now then, if you’re quite finished wasting both our time with your misguided attempts at levity, some of us have real work to which attending. Do try and keep yourself from causing further disruptions, medic. You may resume your “grind” in peace.

Colonel König

KorTac Commanding Officer

--

From: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

To: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

03/07/23 at 12:56 pm

Subject: RE: RE: Aw, you DO care!

Always so grumpy, Colonel Grumpy Pants! Lighten up a little, will ya? Not all of us can be stoic hard asses all the time.

Speaking of asses, mine is practically dragging on the floor from exhaustion. Between classes, labs, studying, and my various part-time jobs, I’m surprised I have any brain cells left at all.

Don’t even get me started on these student loans. At this rate, I’ll be paying them off until I’m 90. Not that you military bigwigs have to worry about pesky things like money, I’m sure. Must be nice.

You know, maybe I should just forget this whole doctor thing and become a sugar baby instead. At least then I could afford to eat once in a while AND maybe some lucky rich person would be willing to pay off my debts. What do you think – interested in an investment opportunity? I promise I come with lots of free sass and jokes at your expense!

Kidding of course…or am I? You’ll never know!

Your favorite broke and tired med student,

Snow

--

From: Colonel_König@KorTac.mil

To: SnowFarron93@medschool.edu

03/07/23 at 03:37 pm

Subject: RE: RE: RE: Aw, you DO care!

One of these days that improperly-filtered mouth of yours will find its owner in hot water she can’t jest her way out of, medic. I’d advise reigning in these fanciful sugar baby musings before they land you in a far less pleasant situation.

However, your frustration with the systemic burdens of medical education is…understandable. The modern model leaves much to be desired in terms of sustainability for both student and society. A dysfunction perpetuated by greed and shortsightedness at the highest levels, as with so many ills in this world.

As for offers of “investment,” I’ve no surplus funds to patronize frivolities. Nor the patience to entertain speculative propositions from volatile girls who can’t keep themselves from inviting more trouble than they bargain for. Focus that restless energy on your studies as discussed, and all should proceed smoothly.

Now then, if there are no further inanities requiring response, I’ve a command to oversee. Best of luck with exams and endeavors, Farron. Dismissed.

Colonel König

KorTac Commanding Officer

I will write the next part later when I have time <3

Also comment love and reblogged are very appreciated! 💖

[loonarkives]

THE TAEIL SITUATION & THE NEW NTH ROOM - clearing some things up because i've seen a lot of misinformation online.

hi. i don't personally stan nct but i thought that making this post was very important to help people understand what's going on rn in SK and avoid all the bullshit that people are saying online due to misunderstanding and/or lack of better knowledge. before starting i'd like to say that this is not "taeil getting canceled". this is taeil being a fucking criminal and finally facing the consequences of his own actions.

let's get into it.

WHY DID THEY KICK HIM OUT OF NCT?

First thing first he wasn't really "kicked out", he agreed to leave the group, although apparently SM did not terminate the contract with the artist. Taeil was not being accused nor was he under investigation, he was CHARGED with a sexual offense related crime (SM did not specify what crime it was in their official statement), meaning that investigations were already carried out and enough evidence was gathered for the prosecution to file a case against him — "As we gathered the facts, we realized the seriousness of the case and decided that he could no longer continue to be a part of the team" is what SM stated in their official statement.

WHO IS THE VICTIM?

The victim can be found on Instagram as "anges_121430". On this account she tried to expose Taeil for about 6 months before his crimes came to light. She also used to handle a twitter account, created for the same purpose, but it was taken down due to (allegedly) Taeil's fans reports. People say that the victim recently turned 18 and Taeil has been molesting and harrassing her for 6 years, so since she was 12. There is no evidence to support this statement. No age was officially specified by the police. Some people on twitter said that it might be a mistranslation/misinterpretation of "18년" which appeared in the police report and means "year" (not "age"!!! please correct me if i'm wrong) suggesting that it started in 2018. Also beware because since SM's official statement there have been A LOT of fake screenshots going around. Of course i'm not sure that all of them are fake but make sure to carefully verify what you choose to believe, because spreading false info is very harmful to the victim and might result into a lack of credibility.

WERE THE OTHER NCT MEMBERS INVOLVED?

We can't be sure. As far as we're aware they were not, but this is a very delicate subject and we basically have no knowledge about it. While it might be suspicious that in a company with hundreds if not thousands of employees nobody knew for 6 years, i can tell you that it is possible for family members and close friends to hide their crimes and true identity from you for YEARS. I'm not gonna tell you to keep stanning nct and act like nothing happened, that is up to you and it's none of my business. I can however advice you to wait until the police comes forward with more evidence that proves the involvement of other members while continuing to treat them with some sort of sceptical attitude.

WHAT IS THE NTH ROOM?

So, a few years back the south korean police discovered a telegram room with thousands of members who shared intimate photos, sensitive information and revenge p0rn videos of women they knew, and it was rumored to have about 200 (if i'm not mistaken) male celebrities and politicians. The room was closed as soon as it was discovered but a new one was created - and it is the one we're dealing with right now. This room has far more participants (about 220.000 men, which is absolutely fucking disgusting) and they are now also sharing p0rn photos or videos made with deepfakes and AI (of which +200 are of female celebrities). The most alarming thing is that they also found material of ELEMENTARY, MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL CHILDREN. There is also a third room, with about 1.200 members that was specifically made to target female university students.

WAS TAEIL A PART OF THE NTH ROOM?

No, or at least not that we know of. Many people believe that he was because of how close on the timeline the discovery of the new Nth Room and the revelation of his crimes were, but the police said nothing about it. We don't know if any idols were actually involved in the new Nth Room and (if they are) which idols were supposedly involved. I saw a rumor of a list that will be released soon: IT'S FAKE!!!!! DO NOT BELIEVE IT!!!! Believe NOTHING about this until actual police statements come out, PLEASE. This is a very serious situation and we don't need misinformation to make things messier. THIS IS NOT A GAME.

(Koreaboo's article: https://www.koreaboo.com/news/female-kpop-idols-deep-fake-porn/ )

- OTHER THINGS:

Is the list of the female idols whose material was found in the new Nth Room real? Unfortunately yes.

Is it true that Taeil hospitalized the victim's mother? NO. It is not true. He didn't hospitalize her, but it is true that he sent death threats to the victim and her mother while the latter was hospitalized.

Is it true that the victim's brother (or grandpa) broke Taeil's leg after finding out about what he did? This is just a rumor, and i also see a lot of confusion about it because some people say it was her brother, while other people say it was her grandpa. Despite this i personally believe that this might be true because i read somewhere that the day Taeil got injured there were no car accidents registered, but again: IT'S JUST A RUMOR!!!

Is it true that he assaulted and rap3d an 11 year old girl and paralyzed her for life? I have found no evidence that backs up this accusation so NO. But Taeil is still a fucking monster that deserves the worst. All the men involved in these two situations do. They don't deserve to be a part of the community of our planet. They deserve NOTHING. They should be treated like the fucking animals they are. Death upon these monsters and whoever supports and defends them. Pieces of shit.

Please excuse any typos and/or grammatical mistakes, unfortunately english isn't my first language!!! If i said anything wrong, if you have to clarify anything and if you have more evidence + news, please let me know by commenting, reblogging or messaging me. Remember to block and report IMMEDIATELY any account that shares deepfake p0rn content. Thank you.

more information about what's going on lately in SK: https://x.com/muixsuzuya/status/1828792968570122616?s=46

[kittyscupcakeandbunny]

SET ME FREE X MIN YOONGI

[Mafia AU]

PART THREE

A deal with the devil

Side Characters: K. Namjoon, J. Jungkook, J. Hoseok and P. Jimin.

Warnings: mentions of violence, blood, death, gunshot, sharp objects, smut, guns.

Song: Gangster - Kehlani and Desperado - Rihanna

……………………………..……………………………..……………………

Leaving Paradise was much easier then going inside, obviously. I still wasn’t over the fact that I was even there to begin with, but the mark on my neck was a clear reminder of last night. It was real, all of it. Yoongi was there.

It didn’t took me too long to find out Yoongi wasn’t like any ordinary man, but now that i was sure he was involved with the Min mafia every detail about his character from the way he moves, talks and presents himself wherever he goes where only the small indicators although appearances could only say much he was also at the crime scene Agust d mafia was involved and not long after he got into Paradise without any trouble were the signs I needed to confirm my suspicions, he didn’t gave me a clear answer but, he avoided doing it so at every chance.

The whole talk about “don’t ask questions that could get you killed” was my confirmation.

Everything was slowly falling into its right place, the more i looked into it the more sense it made to me. The reality wants as sweet as I thought it would be after all of that, the mark on my neck now covered by a badge was a burning reminder of my weakness. So much was going through my mind now, I couldn’t think about what to do, I had the knife in my hand but was I going to use it in my favor?

My suspicions about our chief working with the enemy were still not confirmed and if it really turns out to be true, things will surely get uglier. I knew it had something to do with the late case about the director house being invaded and him beaten up, could it be they were making a deal? Maybe something to do with Namjoons investigation? I couldn’t find anything on the documents in the system, not a single lead about them or anything suspicious involving the chief, i had been looking everywhere for documents that could have any info on the Min mafia case even stealing some from Namjoons office I was going to give it back before he comes back but, for now I can’t let my guard down.

I had been flipping through pages of one i just took form his office, a sight of disappointment leaving my lips. It was just a report on the last investigation nothing new, they didn’t have anything.

Sound of footsteps coming towards my direction as I walked down the corridor files my ears but I ignored, slowly turning the pages of the document in my hands trying to focus on the info in it. Footsteps getting louder as they get closer and a familiar scent made me instantly stop in my tracks to look up at the person walking towards me.

My breath got stuck in my chest as my eyes fall into his, I loook side to side in the corridor to see if anyone else was there only to find out I was alone with him.

He stopped in front of me grabbing me by the wrist as he closed the distance between us taking the papers of my hand, he looked at it and then scoffed eyes looking back at mine.

- didn’t I told you to stop looking for something that could get you killed? - he said, lifting the papers up to my eye sight.

- you did? If I’m not mistaken you didn’t tell me shit? - i said, purposely cussing seeing his expression switch to an angry one - Now you’re here again, why?! To finish the job?!

He looked at me his eyes burning into mine then smirked.

- oh, right how could I even think for a second you were in the mafia - i spat - you’re jus an arrogant-

Before I could even finish he pushed me against the wall of the long corridor, hand in my neck as his eyes burned over mine.

- didn’t I told you I would put that mouth of yours to good use if you disrespected me again? - he held my neck tighter - you wanna play with fire? - he pushed me against the wall with his body - I’ll bring you to hell.

He cornerd me against the wall hands now beside my head on the wall, footsteps where heard from the corridor, he brought his finger up my lips in a silence sign.

- what’s this? - it was Namjoon, a questioned look on his face.

They both looked at each other. An awkward tension between them as they just stared at each other for a moment.

Yoongi looked back at me, a smirk still on his lips as he turned to Namjoon again liking at him up and down.

- see you cop - Yoongi said to me.

With that he left pissed. His footsteps where loud and clear, never once looking back.

- I thought you didn’t knew him? - Namjoon said suddenly, staring beside me.

- I don’t… I… - my brain was still foggy as I was still not over Yoongis words, eyes still looking where he left.

- is everything okay? - Namjoon held my hand turning me to look at him.

- yes why wouldn’t i be okay? - i tried to give him a small smile as I took my hand out of his - he just… wanted some information.

Thinking about the word information i realized he took the papers with him, Namjoons documents that I stole from his office. Yoongi took with him information on the Min mafia case, he was in the mafia Min.

I was in trouble.

I quickly left. Namjoon fallowing me, I ignored his calls for me as I kept walking fast I couldn’t face him right now. I just let information about his investigation slip into the hands of the mafia.

…

I didn’t know what to think.

I’ve been in autopilot mode ever since i left that corridor with a confused Namjoon, my mind was running laps around his words. He wasn’t warning anyrmore, Yoongi was threatening me to leave the Agust d investigation that he somehow knew i was doing.

Was that what he was doing at the chief office that day?

They warned the chief before almost killing the director? Did they have some info about their mafia that could finally take them down somehow?

To say i was afraid now was an understatement, i couldn’t let anything happen. I couldn’t leave my brother alone too. But at the same time, I couldn’t take him out of my mind.

I avoided Namjoon the whole morning, poor him was so lost and confused about my sudden behavior. But I couldn’t face him, at this point I knew he had already connected the dots and found out i had something going on with Yoongi.

Even now that I know for a fact that Yoongi is part of the Min Mafia I couldn’t tell Namjoon about it, he would ignore everything and just tell me how stupid I was at going to downtown again and trying to get inside Paradise. To investigate a case that was bigger then me. To investigate a case he’s been working for a year already.

The more i thought about it the more it came to me just how silly he thinks of me, like a little girl who can take care of herself.

Yoongis words hitting me just as hard. Everyone thought of me as a weak girl. I was so tired of it.

At lunch break I went out alone to eat, document files of the Min mafia in my hand as i continued to investigate the case. I’ll get that Agust D myself if i have to. I was so done at everyone’s idea of who I was.

Same thoughts in my mind as i came back to the station, I wasn’t going to ignore Namjoon anymore. Determination on my mind as i was crossing the street to get inside the station. A black Porsche stoping right in front of me, almost running me over.

I was ready to cuss the owner of the expensive car when the passenger door suddenly opened and i was pushed inside the car. The door was closed before almost hitting my nose, i looked around only to find the driver a man I’ve never seen beside me.

He had a sharp serious look on his face as he looked ahead, never once he looked at my direction. The car began to move and I quickly turned to look at the window, we were going further away from the station.

- who even are you? - i asked him, turning to look at him, anger filling me up.

- I’m the consigliere… but you can call me Jack - he said, not looking at me as he drives the car one hand on the wheel the other resting on the window - I’ll be short and clear with you.

He turned to look at me, eyes burning into mine. As he slowed down the car, looked me up and down, indifference in his eyes.

- I’m the consigliere of the Min mafia… - he stated.

- What? Yeah right…- i stared at the roads ahead. He couldn’t be. Out of nowhere, and with me?

The car suddenly stoped harshly making me almost hit my head in the front of the car, i looked at him in disbelief.

- I’ll put it this way… - this time he turned to me, eyes burning into mine. - Agust D doesn’t like when woman or children are hurt… here’s the thing, I’m not him.

I gulped down. His words sended a chilling feeling down my spine, he came closer to whisper the next threat.

- if you don’t do what I said I’ll kill your brother in the most horrible way possible.

I didn’t know what to say. Wha to do. My mind wasn’t working at that point, I could only stare into his cold gaze. Heart racing with fear.

Was this what Yoongi meant? All those warnings and I ignored him all along, and for what? Obsession?

My own mistakes have put my brother in danger and now i have to pay the price. I should’ve know better. I betrayed everyone. My family. My job. Namjoon. Now I’ll have to do even worst things.

To protect my brother.

- Our mole in your station desapear… - he said eyes looking back at the road - we need you to do the job now but, it seems you’re already pretty good at getting info about us.

I just stared at him, his words sinking into me as he chuckled at his last words.

He knew I’ve been looking for information about them. They knew. But more then anything, they had a mole in our station this whole time. That’s how they knew I was investigating them and that’s how they knew every move the police had on them.

- what happened to your last mole? Why does it have to be me? - I found the courage to ask.

- We don’t know, that’s why your taking his place - he said, a smirk on his heart shaped lips. - your job is to give us all the information about the current investigation going on, that Namjoon guy have something under his sleeve, we want that.

He gave me a smirk turning back to look ahead of him, putting his hand on his jacket taking a black phone he than handed it to me.

- I’ll give you the instructions through this phone - he said - if anything happens you must destroy this phone, don’t ever call or text me with your own phone only this.

I took the phone from his hand, nodding. A heavy heart on my chest. All this time I questioned Yoongi about working with the mafia now here I am.

Having no choice but to do this.

- How long will I have to do this? - i asked him.

- Not too long if you do a good job - he said, a serious look back to his features.

- My brother…? - before I could em my sentence he interrupted me.

- Will be fine, as long as you do your job.

The car began to ride back to the station, there was a silence between us till I saw the station from afar, i looked at him taking in his features. He was warring a jacket and jeans, brown hair styled and smelled like Chanel.

A focused and serious expression on his face, he held himself very confidently but something abou ruim seemed odd.

I didn’t have time to think much of it as the car was stopping right in front of the station, where we left.

My mind kept racing with thoughts as I came back to my reality.

Could i even do this, why did it have to be me? Of everyone else.

As the car stopped I looked at Jack beside me.

- why me? - i asked him.the question he didn’t answer.

He smiled sickly coming closer to my face, once bearly centimeters away to me he turned to whisper in my ear.

- you’ll find out soon.

With that he went back to his seat, I gulped down. Looking at the station through the window, my heart was sinking down. I’ll have to lied to Namjoon again.

Jack gave me one last look.

- if you tell anyone… - he began.

- I know. Don’t worry about that. - I tell him. Already accepted my fate.

- Good now leave, I’ll contact you later.

With that I left the car.

Frozen in front of the station, i felt colder the more I looked at it. Could i really do it? My whole life i dreamed to help others, to be just like my father and bring justice to those who deserved. Now I’ll have to turn my back to all of them, I’ll have to betray everything my father once believed in and all he taught me.

Maybe they were right about me, maybe I’m weak.

But I don’t have a choice now, do i?

I have to be strong. For my brother.

…

The rest of the day went so fast, the only reminder of time was the phone in my pocket. The weight it had on me was almost making me go insane, at any moment Jack could contact me.

And I couldn’t think of anything else but that.

But he didn’t.

It was almost night when I finally forgot about the whole deal i made with that devil, I decided to stop looking through the Min mafia cases and focus only on my work at the station.

So much happened lately, I couldn’t find where it all began and turned into this mess.

Maybe when brother got caught up in with those tugs, when Yoongi helped us and then i was completely obsessed with him and his mysterious aura.

To seeing him at the station I worked looking like a fine man, wearing expensive clothes and smoking. To finding him at Paradise.

I had to clear my mind. I couldn’t let him run through my mind anymore, it was all his fault anyway. If he didn’t came that night and help us, if he didn’t came to my station. If I had never met Yoongi I wouldn’t be here right now.

At that point i was so angry at him, I couldn’t hear a single thing about that investigation every word was a painful reminder of how stupid I was and left the office.

As I walked down the hallway to leave I saw Namjoon walking down the same hallway with a few of his things from the office inside a box in his hands, wondering what that was about a decided to talk to him.

- hey - i called him, he turned back giving me a tired smile. - what you doing?

- I decided to fallow your words - he said looking down before meeting my eyes - I’m taking a few days off.

- That’s good, you more than everyone here needs a rest - i tell him, he continues to walk as i fallow him right beside him.

- What about you? - he asked me as we walked down the stairs.

- I’m just going out for a smoke - i tell him.

- I thought you stopped? - he looked at me, confusion on his face.

- I did… but difficult times call for not so healthy decisions - i tell him, we walked out the doors of the station.

The cold air of the late afternoon hitting my face as I took a deep breath in, turning to Namjoon at my side who watched me with worry in his face.

- is there anything I do to help? - he says.

Looking at him right now I felt sick, i hate having to lie to him. Anyone but him. He’s done so much for me and my brother, more than I could have ever asked for and now i had to betray him. Lie to his face. Tell him I was fine when I wasn’t. When all I wanted was to hug him and cry on his shoulder, have him tell me everything was going to be alright that he got my back.

But i couldn’t.

That girl wasn’t me anymore. I couldn’t be her anymore.

- I can do it don’t worry - i tell him, fake smile on my lips.

- That’s my girl - he says, genuine smile on his lips as he gives me a pat on my head - look at you all grow up, I’m proud of you Y/n.

I felt like throwing up. Fake smile never leaving my lips as i look at him, i took in all the details of his face one last time. He’s genuine smile to me, affectionate and warm. All of it.

- I’ll go now - he said, turning to leave he waved at me one last time.

I waved back.

I love you.

I cleared the tears forming on my eyes, taking the cigarette from my pocket lighting one. I look up at the sky as i blow the smoke into the air.

The sound of ringing sending a chill down my spine and i took the phone off my pocket, it said unknown caller. But I knew exactly who it was.

My first job.

- hello - i said.

- Did he left? - Jack said on the other side of the line, it didn’t took me long to realize he meant Namjoon.

- Yes.

- Good. I need you to bring the reports of the case to Paradise, third floor room 13 - with that he ended the call.

I took a deep breath, throwing the cigarette on the floor I turned to enter the station.

I had to focus. Forget about the past and everything else. They were not just some tugs but the mafia, my brother’s life was on the line.

I’ll give them the info. Than soon this will be all over.

At this hour the station was almost empty. As i walk down the corridors to Namjoons office, making sure no one was around as i entered closing the door behind me. I use the light of my phone to illuminate my way there.

His desk was clean and organized. He took almost all of the documents with him but, i could easily access them through his computer. All passwords were chosen by the TI of the station and it made a lot easy to enter his system.

Once i was logged in I made sure to select all the files and copy them, turning the printer on.

My heart was beating fast as I keep looking out of the office through the glass door, hands shaking as the sound of the printer anouced the files where being printed. It was a lot of paper. It took a while but once they were done I made sure to put them in an envelope.

Turning everything off before i make my way to the exit the lights of the office turned on.

I froze in my track. The sound of the door closing behind me, I gulped down as i heard steps.

- yn? - it was Jungkook. A breath of relief leaving my lips.

- Hey… - I turned towards him. He stopped at the door looking confused at me.

- What you doing here? - he asked.

- Oh… Namjoon forgot this and asked me to get it for him - I quickly made up a lie. He looked me up and down, before his face softens.

- That’s very him - he chuckled, walking to his desk.

- Yeah… I’ll get going then - i said , quickly making my way out- don’t work too hard.

- No chance… - he said.

With that I left the office. A sight of relief leaving my lips.

That was close. The phone in my bakc pocket ringed.

“Did you get the info?” it read.

“Got it”

I replied. Making my way out off the station again. Taking my keys with me, my heart still beating fast as i went to the parking lot. I still had to deliver the envelope to him. I would have to come back to Paradise, memories of the last time I went there filling my mind.

Not wanting but still think of him. Would Yoongi be there again?

I decided not think much of it, turning my motorbike on I drove out of the parking lot. Letting the night air fill my lunges as I drove to downtown.

I didn’t have much in my mind anymore. Letting the wind guide me to my destiny, at this point it felt like my life wasn’t mine anymore. I was just another puppet, controlled by those with the real power.

Driving fast It didn’t took me long to get there. The dark streets with questionable people walking around, smoke in the air and the strong smell of cheap alcohol.

The same streets changing into a less and less dark place to something out of the movies, expensive cars everywhere and people wearing design clothes and strong perfume.

I stopped my motorbike in front of the night club getting some looks from the people around as I walked towards the line in the entrance holding the envelope tightly in against my chest. Surely someone like me shouldn’t be here. It didn’t fit. I was still in my working clothes, white bottom up shirt and simple black jeans and a jacket.

The same security guys from last time where there and I gulped down, i wondered if I would have to call the consigliere if they didn’t let me in. Sounds stupid to me, what would I say? Sorry Jack I couldn’t get in ?

Once I stood in front of them I didn’t have time to think of anything else.

- is the Parks girl - one said to the other.

- You may get in miss - he said, making way for me to enter.

Park.

I was completely confused at first but, than the memory came back to me.

As in Park Jimin.

The man that helped me get in Paradise last time, he must be pretty powerful if they didn’t questioned me again.

Once inside the night club I was immediately greeted with a strong smell of aphrodisiac fruity perfume and alcohol as well as cigarette smoke, it all looked the same as last time.

Everyone in here seemed to be in their own world as they drank and smoked, danced against each other’s bodies.

I didn’t came here to party. I came to deliver.

Quickly I made my way to the stairs to get in the second floor, walking around through all this people I held the envelope harder against my chest. Making sure to not make any eye contact with them. Last thing I wanted was to drag attention towards myself.

- darling yn! - said a voice behind me, I recognized immediately.

Too late.

- Mister Park - I turned to him.

Jimin had a lazy smiled on his face as he made his way towards me drunkly. White shirt half opened exposing his chest and tattoos. Just like last time. Once he was in front of me his arms closed around my body as he hugged me tightly before letting go making sure to slide his hands on my back dangerously close to my ass stopping at my hips.

- I’m glad to see you - he said, alcohol on his breath.

- Good to see you too but…- I quickly try to make up a way to leave but he interrupted me.

- Let’s have a drink with me - he invited, face closer to mine - we can have some fun later….

His eyes looked heavy, sweet perfume on his skin. Everything about him was so dreamy i felt like i was on a high every time I was with him, they way he sounded like poison yet so inviting how sickly sweet his words came out of this lips, full and inviting.

He was a seductive man in a way it was so dangerous, it took all in me to stop him from coming any closer.

- Sorry - i whispered, touching his chest with the tip of my fingers pushing him slightly back - I have a job to do…

- Oh… - he said, a pout on his lips then he looked me up and down mischief in his eyes - you’re meeting Agust d right?

- What? - i almost gagged at my on spit, how did he knew?

- I saw you last time.. - he said - you with the mafia? Sexy.

- No no… More like… - i tried to come up with something but, thinking was really difficult when he kept running his hands down my back and looking at me like a sexy god.

- Is alright you don’t have to tell me…. - he sounded like a siren - I know how they can be.

- Yeah… - i nodded, remembering my last encounter with the consigliere.

- Go then… and if you have time - he brushed my hair over my ear - come back to me, I’m sure I can entertain you a lot more than them.

Not noticing I was nodding again as he let go of me, turning back to walk to the third floor.

I quickly made my way back to towards the big stairs that lead to the third floor. There was a big corridor with many doors on the sides, the light here was dim you could only see the numbers on the doors.

I making sure I was at the 13th room quickly. Standing in front of it i wasn’t sure if I should nock or just get in. So i nocked twice before opening the door.

It was nothing like I expected but, a netting room two big black sofas in the middle small coffee table divided them and behind it a big glass wall.

And sitting right there, all proud and confident was Jack. The consigliere sitting in the sofa in front of the glass wall. He didn’t looked at me as he continued to drink his whiskey and just made a signal from me to sit there.

I made my way to the sofa in front of him. Once i was sat I put the envelope over the table, eyes never leaving the brown paper.

No one said a word for a moment.

- I didn’t expect you to get here so fast - he said, finally looking at me and smirked - Min said you’d do a good job that’s why your here.

- Min?… - I questioned.

- Agust d - he stated, getting a box of cigarettes he offered one to me wich I accepted. - he chose you himself.

He leaned over the table holding the fire, i fallowed his move. Cigarette between my lips as he lighted for me, leaning back.

- we’ll continued with this until the investigation is over - he said.

- When will this be? - i asked.

- Min is working on it, don’t worry - he took a sip of the golden drink - as long as you do what we say your brother will be fine.

My brother.

Is for him that I’m doing this.

- you’ll pay his debit - he said, putting his cup down over the table.

- Debit? - I questioned, confused.

- Oh, you didn’t know? He owes us money - he tells me.

- What do you mean by that?! - just what was my brother doing?

- He’s addicted yn… you know what fallows right? - he smirked.

No.

Was this why he was in downtown that night?

He was involved with…. I couldn’t even finish that in my thoughts, but it was clear to me.

— can I go now? - i asked. Putting the cigarette inside his cup.

- what’s the rush? - Jack said - already missing that Park guy?

I looked at him incredulous and scoffed.

- not like if I stay here you’ll give me answers… - I tell him.

- And Park will give you? - he scoffed. I didn’t say anything.

- can i go now? - i asked inpatient.

- Yeah, Min said you can enjoy your time at Paradise - he said smirking - a treat for your good job. Your station is already closed anyway.

Did so much time passed already? I looked at my watch realizing he was right.

- I’ll go than - i said.

- Till next time cop.

I had to bite my tongue. He wouldn’t hesitate to hurt my brother and for that I had to lay low, to protect him. How could I not know he was on drugs? How could I have not noticed?

With everything that happened after mom and dad died I tried so hard to distract myself with my trying at the police academy, not once did I had the time to support my brother.

This was all my fault.

A treat from Agust d.

It felt so bitter. I hated.

As I made my way to exit the thrid floor, seeing all the people around drinking and dancing. Like there was no tomorrow, I envy them. How can you do something bad and still be able to sleep.

“And park will give you?”

Maybe he will.

At least I know he’ll distract me, if even my brother lost himself I could do that too. Just one night.

Let me be free for one night. I need to forget everything for just one night.

I made my way to the third floor, if I want to leave this whole thing with something might as well go and get. I’m tired of yoongi never telling me nothing. I’m tired of putting myself on the line for others, I just need to forget for a while.

Is a treat from his boss isn’t it?

Maybe I’ll have a drink.

The commotion on the thrid floor was much extravagant then the upper ones, from a distance a could see Jimin dancing in one of those stages with another girl doing pole dancing, some throw money at him some gave food on his mouth.

As a woman in bikini was passing with a few drinks in a tray I quickly grabbed one drinking the whole thing in a gulp.

Walking closer to where he was, just how am I supposed to get him to talk like that? He looked so out of it as he moved his body in the most sexy way.

Grabbing another drink without a single care as i drink it in one gulp, I took off my jacket feeling the alcohol warm up my body sitting on one of the seats in front of the stage.

My eyes fallowing his moves from the stage, noticing he found me in a distance as he smiled at me pleased to see I was watching him.

He walked down the stage to my direction, moving like a siren swimming in the ocean. Everyone stoped to look at him.

Eyes locked with mine the entire time, he stopped in front of me.

- so… you finally decided to come to me? - he tells me, sitting beside me.

- You were right - i moved closer to him, whispering in his ear - I got bored… so I hope you can keep me entertained…

I saw how gosepumps fallow up through his skin exposed by the shirt, the two cups of whiskey I drank before were making me confident enough to risk it. I usually I’m not like this but, I’ll use everything I can to forget. Even him.

- what kind of entertainment you want? - he said, tilting his head to the side as he smiled.

- Something… - I started, sliding my finger over his colar bones under his shirt. He closed his eyes leaning his head on my shoulder. - exciting.

- Oh yn you’ll be he death of me… - he said against my neck, then got up holding his hand out for me to take - I’ll give you everything you need.

I took his hand. With that it felt like the final step before I fall into an ocean of darkness, letting it consume me completely. Letting it wash all my shameful acts and betrayals.

I didn’t know if I was ever going back to being who I was, so i just let the sinner guide me.

Jimin took me to the second floor, a table close to the bartenders. He took a bottle of liquor and gave it to me, i took it from him drinking a good amount of it.

Who knows maybe i can enjoy it even.

He smiled taking the bottle from my hands to drink it, a bit spilling of his lips a single drop sliding down his face to his neck. He pushed me closer by the waist giving me a kiss on the check.

- look around yn - he whispered in my ear - all this people come here to forget about their sins… tell me yn, what’s your sin?

What’s my sim?

- My sin… i don’t know - I tell him.

- Than let’s change that…. - he looks at me in the eye - I’ll make you a sinner.

He smirked, pressing the bottle on my hand. I gulped down as i stared into his siren eyes, taking the bottle I drink more of its green liquor. In a second after he’s mouth was over mine. Kissing me hungrily.

I was surprised at first but then forgot completely about everything, he was indeed a siren. My mind was foggy and my body felt so light, my thoughts were completely washed away from me.

I grabbed his neck returning the kiss just as hungrily, his hands sliding down my body as he closed all the distance between us. Groaning over my mouth he slides his lips over my jaw and down my neck, sucking harshly on my skin.

- humm… dance with me yn… - he said against my neck.

I didn’t know why I nodded, why I let him guide me back to the third floor, why I just simply let him do anything he wanted.

We kissed in front of everyone, his shirt was a mess at this point. His soft skin full of scratches from my nails, he would mark all my neck not a single care in our minds.

At one point I tried to drink from the bottle only to find out we drank the whole thing already, he only laughed and pushed me towards where everyone else was dancing.

The loud music was booming, we kept dancing against each other. Hands sliding everywhere, sweat running down my spine, it was so hot.

My mind was so clear, nothing bothered me anymore. It felt like I was free. I felt so free. I didn’t wanted it to end.

A girl gave me her cigarette which I took a blow grabbing Jimins neck to blow the smoke into his mouth, he smirked holding my waist as he bite my lip before kissing me. And kept dancing.

I couldn’t care if my feet hurt. I couldn’t feel anything. It was so realizing to not have that weight over my shoulders.

At some point jimin desapear and I didn’t notice, i starded to search for him around the many people dancing but couldn’t find him anywhere.

My head was starting to feel heavy, I was bumping in everyone as I walked out of the bodies dancing around closer to the exit i bumped into another men.

Almost falling but someone else grabbed me by the arm. Strong smell of cigarettes and cologne hitting my senses, my vision was a little blurry but I could still make that scar. Those sharp eyes.

If looks could kill.

- Yoongi?… - sharp pain in my head I held my head before looking back at him, my body was beginning to feel heavy - oh.,. I feel… sorry…

- Enjoyed your treat? - his voice sounded close but it felt so distant.

- Treat?….

My body felt so heavy as my eyes began to close, I swear I was going to fall but his arms held me against him. My heavy eyes looking straight into his sharp ones, it felt weird.

I should fear him but, I just wanted to be engulfed into his warmth. No one could ever have the effect he had on me.

- Yoongi… - my arms circled around his neck.

- you’re drunk - he said against my lips, i nodded laughing.

He only held me tighter, taking my arms from around his neck. I thought he would carry me bridal style, but a tug like him would never. Silly me.

He simply threw me over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes, waking me up completely this time.

- if I throw up in your expensive clothes don’t blame you dick- i say, he then slapped my ass. - ouch!

- Don’t curse, you know I hate it - he simply said as he walked to god knows where, I couldn’t see anything from there.

- Ohh no I’m getting sick - I lied, he just kept walking.

The cold air of the night hitting me like a truck, remembering I forgot my jacket there. Helpless I only sighted.

- I’m bored… - I tell him, but he just ignored me.

The only thing I could see was his expressive shiny shoes and his ass, it was almost bigger then mine. I was so drunk I felt lightheaded.

The only possible reason I could fine to why I did what I did next .

- your ass is big - I blurted out, I heard his loud breathing indicating his impatience. Laughing I slapped his ass back.

At that he brought me down so fast I felt dizzy, he looked angrier than ever at me. Face so close as he pinned me against a car, hands holding my hips tightly almost carving his nails on my skin through my jeans.

He breathed fast, lips on a thin line as he just stared at me, probably thinking how he’s going to end me right now.

But I didn’t care.

All I could think about was how his lips were so close to mine, how his cologne did nothing to help me sober up as I only felt more drunk on him. Of all people him.

His grip on my hips began to soften up as he let go of me, he looked everywhere but me. Licking his lips before finally looking at me, he opened his mouth to say something but stoped eyes looking up and down over me.

- don’t look at me like that - he said, opening the door of the car behind me.

- Like what? - i asked, he then smirked at me one arm over the car beside me completely locking me there. Coming closer to my face.

- Like you want me to fuck you right now… - he whispered on my ear. My checks burned so hard.

I couldn’t say anything else as he pushed me back inside the car, closing the door after. Jack was in the driver seat, he chuckled before driving out of there.

The cold air of the atmosphere was bringing me back to my reality. And I let it all sink into me, still a bit high on the freedom I felt there.

Still drunk on him.

I allowed my body to slide down the car seat and fall asleep.

…

2

days after.

Namjoon was going to have the whole week off. The fact that he was out of the investigation made a lot more easier to get the info about the processes of the investigation goin on, i could go in and out of the office and no one would notice. No one but Consigliere.

Somehow they knew exactly when I would left and when I would go in, they were in a whole higher level. The past cases involving them were giving the station so much stress as they couldn’t get a single hint right.

The past two days I was getting as much info as I could for them, but I wasn’t asked to go to Paradise anymore. Maybe I went too far last time, just the thought of it would make red.

Consigliere would come here every night to get the info.

And tonight it wasn’t any different.

As I was coming back from Namjoons office, walking the corridor to take the info for Jack. My phone started ringing non stop. He could wait, I was already going to give him the info.

Why was he calling like that?

As the ringing continued I stopped to turn off the phone, impatiently as I cursed at him for being like this when i sudden hit my face on a soft wall or something like someone, almost falling back if the person didn’t hold me by the waist.

My eyes staring at his in surprise.

- Namjoon?!

- You don’t look too happy to see me - he said, letting go of me he as he stands with a few documents in hand.

- I don’t… I mean what you doing here?

- I came back earlier- he said, determination in his eyes - you were right yn, I just needed some time off.

- Oh…

- See you then - he said, going in the direction of his office.

I looked at his back blinking confused, he came so quickly. Things would be a lot more difficult now. The phone ringed again.

I simply brushed off, Jack was a pain in the ass. Last thing I wanted was him using my brother to threaten me because I took too long to deliver the info.

Quickly I made my way out of the station, the black Porsche parked right in front of the entrance. Jack stood there over the car, coming towards me as soon as he saw me.

- I called you - he stated anger in his voice.

- I know, Namjoon… - before I could say anything else, he grabbed my arm harshly.

- I don’t think I made myself clear - he spat - if you don’t take my calls your brother is dead meat.

- I know…. - I gulped down. - Namjoon was there.

- What? - he seemed to be connecting the dots.

- That’s why… he came back earlier it seemed he has some new info - i said, he lets go of my arm.

- What ever he has - he took the envelope of my hands - get it before it blows up.

I only nodded as he gave me one last look before going in the Porsche and driving out.

I felt weak in the knees, almost falling down.

He had the most dark aura I’ve even meet, those dark eyes that showed nothing but, death.

Agust d was right when he chose him as his consigliere, no one could put fear in another’s like he did.

After that i decided to clock out.

…

The next day, the whole station seemed to be in a fuss. With Namjoon returning everyone was working a lot more, he made sure everyone was one hundred percent in the investigation. People were walking back and forth in the corridors.

The only focus being the Agust d case.

And for that reason I couldn’t even get close to their office, every time I tried they would call me out on it.

Your just an intern.

This is not you place.

I was so frustrated at that. I thought I could take something out of Namjoon but he too was way too focused on the investigation.

He didn’t came out for lunch. And stayed late at night with his teammates to work on the case. Another two days passed like that.

I didn’t hear a word about Namjoon for this two days. Consigliere was pressing me every day, they wanted to know what was this fuss about. Using my brother to threat me every damn hour, it became the only thing I could think about.

I couldn’t sleep with so much worry in my mind.

I was out in the dark. I couldn’t get anything out of them.

Jack kept pressing me for info but I didn’t have anything.

I was having lunch when he called again.

- nothing yet? - he spat.

- I…

- Your brother is leaving for school… - he said. My body went cold. He was at my house.

- Jack don’t… - he laughed.

- Didn’t I made myself clear? Should i give you inspiration to move!? - he said.

- No, don’t - I said, desperate and anxious - I’ll get the info tonight please….

- Tonight.

With that he ended the call. I felt dizzy. Leaving the place immediately, I went back to the station.

I was desperate. At this point he could do anything to my brother, I couldn’t let it happens not after everything I did to keep him safe.

I decided to stay late at the office, as I watched everyone else leaving hopping Namjoon would be alone until he office by now. He was my only hope, knowing his week spot for me. I felt terrible for using him like that but, I needed to for my brother.

I waited anxiously until all was left at the office was Namjoon and Jungkook.

Quickly making my way to their office.

Stopped in front of it thinking of what to say, but nothing came to my mind. Anxious i nocked on it twice.

It took a while before Jungkook opened.

- hey yn - he said, open just enough of the door to see his face.

- Hey is Namjoon free? - I try to sound as calm as possible.

- No, we busy - he said, closing the door again - bye.

- No, please I really need to talk to him…

He closed the door. I almost punched the door. The phone in my back pocket ringed.

“Anything yet?”

I felt helpless.

so i called him.

- stop pressing me already! - I whispered yelled - I’m trying goddamit!

- say that to your brother - he said, threaten again.

- You-

- Yn? - i turned to see Namjoon standing there, door opened and a worried look on his face.

- Namjoon! - i said out loud so Jack would hear and he immediately turned off the call.

- Is everything alright? - he asked.

- No, I’ve been trying to talk to you for days - I tell him, trying my best to act and lie. I needed the info as soon as possible.

- Sorry yn… it’s just… - he stoped looking around the corridor never at me.

- Exactly, I know you got some hint on this case but, why did you left me out?

- Sorry…. - he pushed me to a hug. - come in, I wanna show you something.

- Okay.

Finally.

As i walked inside the office behind Namjoon, the whole room looked like a big mess. Papers all over the place boxes and coffee mugs.

Jungkook was in front of a white board with pictures and writings all over it, i looked around shocked.

The place was a mess.

- don’t mind the mess - Namjoon said turning to me. At the Jungkook also turned to me.

- She’s not allowed here - he said to Namjoon.

- I know but is yn, i trust her - he said, giving me a smile wich I replied bitterly - you can trust her.

Trust.

The bitter taste under my tongue, I wanted to dig a whole and get inside. But still, I had to wear that mask and lie to him. What would my father think of me? What will Namjoon do when he find out I was the one behind all of it.

- this right here - Namjoon showed me a picture of a man - he used to work at the station, he came to me saying the Min mafia forced him into giving information about the investigation.

I gulped down looking at the picture of the man. Now here I’m, doing exactly what he did.

- he said they have his family that’s why he came to me asking for help - Namjoon turned to look at the board - those rats, all this time threatening one of our guys like that….

- But we got everything about them now thanks to him - Jungkook said - tonight it will be all over.

- Tonight? - I questioned. Namjoon turned to me smiling.

- We set a trap for Agust d - he said. I looked at him immediately - this days we focused on perfect trap for him, thanks to the info he gave us.

- One of our guys is there already waiting for him, he’s playing to be their old mole - Jungkook said - what they don’t know is that we got him locked up at the station.

- Once Agust d gets there our guy will make sure he reacts - Namjoon said, looking at Jungkook ray shared a look of wining - I’ll get him and kill him.

I lost my breath at his words. Namjoon is planing to kill the mafia Min boss, he really is going to do it.

“If something happens to D I’ll kill your brother”

I felt dizzy as the words of the consigliere run through my mind, if their plan works my brother dies.

I need to tell Jack.

- we already have a team there - Namjoon said - we are just getting things done here, once we’re good will go there.

- I see… - i manege to say - well I’m sure you’ll do a good job.

- You telling me this I’m sure I will - he smiled at me.

I’m sorry.

- I won’t take your time than - i said turning to leave.

- Yeah is almost time - Jungkook looked at the clock on the wall.

- Bye yn - he says.

I waved at him, opening the door of the office I leave there quickly trying to call Jack again as I run through the corridors towards the exit but, he doesn’t answer.

I keep calling as i quickly run out of the station, running to the parking lot i go to my motorbike.

When he finally answered.

- didn’t I told you- before he can say anything else.

- Where are you?! - I interrupted.

- What?

- where are you?! I got the info to their plan I need to see you now! - I rushed through my words.

- I’ll send you the location, come fast or I’ll leave before you.

With that he turned off, they were going there to Namjoons trap already. My breath got stuck in my throat a ring suddenly indicating he sended a message. Quickly turned the gps to the location he sended to me.

Turning my motorbike on I drove as fast as I could to the location on the gps, my brothers life was on the line. As much as I loved Namjoon I could let anything happened to my brother, he was the only family I had with all his flaws. My only family. It was my job as his older sister to protect him.

I’m sorry Namjoon, I’ll have to stop you. For my brother.

The location he sended me was almost out of the city, the more and more I drove towards it the less civilized it became.

My mind was racing with thoughts, heart beating so hard on my chest it was painful. I’ll have to carry this weight with me till the end.

Bright lights hit my eye sight and I stoped my motorbike quickly, the sound of motor raging and as my motorbike slided on the ground. The black Porsche stoped abruptly in front of me.

I saw Jack on the drivers seat.

Taking my helmet off I made my way towards the car, behind the Porsche was a big gate, that lead to a mansion but I didn’t give much thought to it.

Jack came out of the car towards me anger on his face.

- you better..

- it’s a trap. - i interrupted him. He looked at me confused - Namjoon knows everything, they have your old mole in the station and he gave Namjoon all the info about you guys. He made a trap to get Agust d.

After that was silence. Jack looked at me up and down, turning to the car. The door of the car opened. As someone else walked out of it.

- why would I believe you? - it was Yoongi, what was he doing here?

- Are you kidding me!? - I tell him, making my way to him before Jack could stop me - you think I would run to here, almost get caught by Namjoon, have my brothers life on the line just to lie to you!?

I stood in front of him, I was so pissed as i stared into his eyes. He looked at me for a good amount of time, neutral expression on his face unbothered by my rage.

I really wish I read his mind, know what was he thinking but he was the biggest mystery I’ve ever meet.

- she’s coming with us - Yoongi said to Jack, taking my arm to enter the car with him.

He pushed me inside the car getting in right after.

- Are you sure? - Jack said already in the Porsche.

- She’s been pretty useful - Yoongi said.

I scoffed not looking at him.

Jack drove fast hitting the gas pedal hard, I held on tight to the car seat. Not for fear of the swords but feather of how things would turn out once we are there, will Namjoon be there already?

Why did Yoongi needed me there for?

Once the car began to slow down I looked around through the window, Jack stoped the car in an abandoned construction site, there was a fire goin on in the middle of the empty site and a black car parked on the other side of it in front of the car was a man standing there with a hat on his head.

“One of our man is already there”

My body went cold. It was all set up already exactly how Namjoon said.

- I’ll go there - Yoongi said. - make sure she stays here quiet.

- Yes - Jack gave him a nod.

I looked at them incredulous.

- Didn’t you hear what I said!? - I say. Holding Yoongis arm.

- I did. - he looked at me, opening the door and getting out of he Porsche.

I watched as he walked to the man standing there, stopping a few meters away. The fire separating them. I couldn’t hear what the they were talking about but, I notice when Yoongi chuckled.

Jack seemed too focuse on Yoongi to realize what was happening, he didn’t know. They didn’t listen to me. He problems thought Yoongi could handle that, just like I would after seeing him take four guys down with only his hands.

“I’ll be there right after” was what Namjoon said.

That was exactly what Namjoon wanted, a reaction.

One move from him to take him down for good.

Take him down for good.

Him.

Yoongi.

My heart beating so fast in my chest. I was too busy trying to save my brother not once did it cross my mind.

How Yoongi was everywhere. At any time i was supposed to deliver info to Jack, he was at Paradise every time I went there. How he would warn me about keeping my distance. How he always carried himself.

He was the one making a deal with chief, he was at the directors house, he was at every crime scene.

How Jack obeyed his commands. How did I not notice once. Everything seemed to fall right into its place now, i could see it clearly. Feeling stupid at how long it took my to realize.

Yoongi was Agust d. And Namjoon was going to kill him.

- he’s going to kill him - i tell Jack, he loooked at me through the mirror.

- What?

My eyes lock into his, thinking of my brother. If Yoongi dies so will my brother. Why wasn’t he doing anything?

My heart racing as I look around the car, only to find Jacks pistol on the seat beside him. Looking up to Yoongi I see the men in front of him held up a gun.

Just one reaction of him to kill him.

I let my feeling take over me as I take my last step towards what would be my end, the cold feeling of the metal of the pistol in my hand. My heart racing so fast it pained my chest, my helpless self trying to save my brother.

Two seconds I was out of the car, walking towards Yoongi. Jack fallowing behind me but i was too late to stop me.

I wouldn’t let him hurt my brother.

Even if I had to betray Namjoon. Even if I lose him too.

With shaking hands I held the pistol high. Standing behind Yoongi. The men in front of him in my sight.

I took a deep breath pulling the trigger. My mind a mess and the only sound I heard before was the fire burning there.

Then the loud shooting of the pistol being fired filled my ears.

One.

Bang.

Two.

Bang.

Next?

Note: sorry for any grammatical mistelas hehe ☺️💖🤭

Taglist: @missmin @whipwhoops @glosstwn @i-have-no-life-charlie @kooslilhoe @catlove83 @taegicity @ginger-coffee-addict @rosquilleta @tarahardcore @liveyun @manuosorio @thvlover 7 @4ukiyo4 @passionandsuga @missroro @btspurplesky @crystallizedtime @i-am-invisible-for-you @celticcountrygal @dancerninjastudent-blog @fairywriter-oracle @m4gg13-g @alexxa013 @unadulteratedlyunique @kpopmultistantrashsstuff @anaspectoflife @younhakim29 @slinekyu @nochookiee @strxwbloody @yoongislatinagff @pandafuriosa60 @nattjuless @cuntessaiii @fatmaortiz @kimsonlyluv @wobblewobble822 @be0mluver @sukonsukuna

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

AITA for not returning an ex-friend's game?

A year and a half ago, at the start of college, I (19X at the time) was in a class with a guy I'll call Kyle (18?M at the time). Kyle seemed generally really chill and nice, we sat next to each other and joked around during class, discussed our siblings and our majors, etc. He seemed like a pretty good acquaintance that I wanted to make into a true friend.

While talking we brought up video games and I said I had been really into the Nintendo DS lately. He said he still has his old DS somewhere, and asked what games I like. I said mostly Pokemon and puzzle games, but at the time I was really into ace attorney too. He said it's not quite the same, but his sister has an investigation-like game for the DS, and she barely plays it, so I could borrow it if I want.

I said yes. The game was sort of meh. His sister only had 2 hours in it and I was given permission to delete her save file. But I wanted to keep playing it so we had something to talk about.

One day I invited Kyle over to play Mario kart, and my girlfriend was home. She passed by, and I said "oh, Kyle, this is X, my partner! X, this is Kyle, the friend I told you about!" Kyle's mood seemed immediately soured. He muttered something about "oh, I see how it is" and after he left that day he was distant to me in class and never started a conversation again.

I'm pretty certain he was actually into me and I was oblivious about it. We haven't spoken since, and I'm honestly really hurt because I feel like I always have to worry about whether or not my guy friends actually like me as a person or just as a crush. I still have the game though. It's not a popular or especially rare game, so I'm not holding some rare collectors item hostage. His sister barely played it and he hasn't contacted me about it since.

AITA for just letting it go and not giving the game back?

What are these acronyms?

[adachimoe]

Random tidbits from Hashino's interview in the Persona Club P4 book

At the back of the Persona Club P4 fanbook, there's a 6 page interview with Katsura Hashino about the making of Persona 4. This interview is spoilerific and you have to cut the pages of the book to even read it lol. I have 0 desire to translate the entire thing (I don't trust myself with that, ngl), but here are some fun highlights from it related to Adachi. This interview/book was published in 2009, so before the anime aired, before Golden, before Arena, etc.

The identity of the true culprit - who filled Adachi's role before Adachi?

While developing the story, it originally had Izanami (Hashino very specifically mentions Izanami was planned since the start) and Namatame, and one of the themes was "how the characters get info". From what Hashino says, Namatame's role during this earlier stage in development sounds very similar to what we got in-game. Back then, he was considered the true culprit and he was well-meaning, but he lacked some pretty critical info. After Namatame, there would be the feeling that there was still someone out there, but that someone was Izanami, not Adachi.

The staff felt the plot was lacking, so they wanted to add in a stepping stone between Namatame and Izanami as an extra plot twist - a true, true culprit. And the first character who they considered for the role of the true culprit was................... not Adachi.

The very first candidate for the true culprit was Yukiko. Yup. This came from a half-serious, half-joking convo between Hashino and Soejima. Their reasoning for picking Yukiko was because in the Kindaichi Case Files, whenever there's a murder in the sticks, it's always the lady who runs the ryokan who's the culprit.

The next person who they considered was.......... Yosuke. They thought that because of how his character was shown as a decision maker with a good head on his shoulders, maybe he'd have a relatable reason for devising everything? They talked about making him a villain who would still be adored by players regardless. But Hashino was against the idea of having one of friend group as the culprit.

Ultimately, the reason why neither Yukiko nor Yosuke became the culprit was because their motives for murder would be too personal. Hashino thought that if it's murder driven by personal motive, then players won't be as invested. A personal motive would be too much like the "Tuesday Mystery Theater", a Japanese mystery TV show that was - from my understanding - character driven drama.

Hashino went back to the theme of "how the characters get info". At the time, there existed a person in the plot who's function in the game was to give the main cast information from the police's side. This character just so happened to give you info, and seemingly consequence free on their part - after all, what you did with the info after had nothing to do with them. They were careless. And Hashino followed this train of thought, thinking that kind of carelessness went well with antagonism.

Originally, Adachi was the aforementioned character. He was not the culprit, and he gave the characters info about the police's investigation. Following Hashino's train of thought, then the person who was giving away information would become this new culprit between Namatame and Izanami.

But there was an issue - if he was giving the main cast info about the investigation, then he would stand out among the adult cast, and him standing out might spoil that he's the true culprit. Thus, Hashino changed directions during development and started to create Adachi's character.

(See bottom of this post for a footnote about Adachi's old character design and some ramblings about his old role.)

The Thousand Curses and the Myriad Truths

Per Hashino, Persona 4 is about media literacy (no seriously it says media literacy in katakana wasei-eigo even). Izanami's Thousand Curses represents the lies of the media that humans believe in. The protagonist's Myriad Truths represents how, in this sea of misinformation and lies, you can only trust and believe in the words of those who are close to you.

(I suppose now is a good time to mention that the Japanese name for Myriad Truths is "Tens of Thousands of [Mantras / True Words]". A mantra is a phrase/word you repeat over and over, so it seems the Myriad Truths is a visualization of the protagonist unleashing all of the truths from his social links and bonds. All 10,000+ of them.)

Adachi's Given Name

Adachi's given name was not always Tohru. At first, it was Tamotsu, which is written 保. Hashino changed it to Tohru because the character for Tamotsu 保 could also be read Yasu when used as a name, and at the time, the staff was trying not to spoil who the culprit was.

Why would Tamotsu / Yasu spoil the game, though? Because "Yasu did it!" is an old ancient ur-spoiler meme thing from the 1983 adventure game the Portopia Serial Murders. Think of like... "soylent green is people", "Darth Vader is Luke's father", "Sephiroth kills Aerith", etc. Not only that, but the main character of Portopia is a detective, and Yasu is your buddy cop sidekick.

Hashino was already aware of the Yasu comparisons because one of the staff who read the script reacted by going, "So Yasu did it, huh?" But Hashino thought that Portopia was so damn old that gamers wouldn't know about it. Only turbo nerds working at Atlus know Portopia, right?

Wrong lmao turns out a shit ton of people knew about the Portopia spoiler. After character art of Adachi was released in a magazine promo for Persona 4, people reacted with, "Yasu did it", so Hashino very quickly changed Adachi's given name.

They had already recorded the audio for the game at this point, which included a line of Adachi saying, "I'm Tamotsu Adachi" when he introduces himself. Hashino had the audio team cut out him saying "Tamotsu", and this is why Adachi says, "I'm Adachi" and not "I'm Tohru Adachi" in April.

I'm sure there's an alternate universe where his name stayed Tamotsu and in that universe I am instead blogging about how you can read it as "Yasu" while explaining the Portopia Serial Murders. :')

Footnote Commentary

If you're familiar with the Persona 4 Design Works, Adachi's page mentions that originally during development, he wasn't the culprit but rather a misdirect. After his role in the story was revised to be the true culprit, Adachi's design was also revamped to be the design we know of today. But this red haired design was his original design back when he was apparently just a leaky faucet. I suppose since we know his name used to be Tamotsu, we can call this version of him "Tamotsu" lol.

Hashino doesn't really go into what he meant by "create Adachi's character", but I'm assuming since the Adachi character already existed in the plot, he meant like... "re-create" the character to fit this new role as the true culprit with this consideration about how he'd come off in the plot.

Hearing that the character originally gave you legit info about the police investigation is interesting, cause in the Design Works, opposite this page of Adachi's old design, Soejima also mentions that Adachi was originally a red herring. I can see how those go hand in hand - a guy feeding you accurate info? How would that not be suspicious?

I also get the impression that Hashino is indirectly saying that the Adachi we got in-game also feeds you bullshit, as to make him seem *less* suspicious, if him giving you legit info would make him more suspicious. Which, well, considering the first thing he says is, "Yukiko did it!" ...Hmm yeah okay lol.

I was pretty amused to see that Yukiko and Yosuke were names being tossed around to be the true culprit. Wild to see that the ancient internet rumors are actually true. Notably, Dojima is still not true. Very funny to read that the real origin was some partially nonsense convo between Soejima and Hashino where they're like, "Hey, so, about the Kindaichi Case Files."

The real moral of the story here is that Adachi is truly no one's first choice. Even his role as the true culprit was originally just a confused Namatame.

[gacha-incels]

"Solidarity overturned the decision, we will watch police reinvestigation" interview with victim of ‘pinched-fingers’ case (archive link)

(Seocho police station)

this is mtl of the article that I’ve edited. you can click the link and see the original, if there’s any glaring issues lmk and I’ll edit the post ✍️.

The victim of the Nexon MapleStory pinched finger (🤏) incident responded to the Seoul Seocho Police Station's decision to re-investigate her case, saying, "I recognize that many people's attention is focused on this, and I ask for a clean and thorough investigation. Even though the re-investigation is underway, we don't know what will happen, so we will continue to watch it carefully," she said.

In a written response on the afternoon of the 7th, victim A said, "I thought it would never be overturned, but I think it was the solidarity of many people that made it happen."

"My first thought is to thank them for their solidarity. I didn't realize that there would be thousands of complaints (against the Seocho Police Station)," she said, continuing, "I couldn't have done it alone. I will continue to work hard and do whatever I can to help," she stressed.

"I'm happy yet nervous at the same time. I think the police should have been more cautious in their initial decision to not extradite," she said, adding, "If they were able to admit that they were wrong two days after the news broke, I wish they would have taken a little more time to consider (a full investigation) from the beginning.”

“How Solidarity Protects Me"

Ms. A also emphasized that "solidarity with other people is the solution to healing oneself."

"After (the incident), I couldn't ignore the stories of people who were affected similarly to me, and I tried to understand their pain and offered my support in any way I could," she said. "I started several activities, including regular donations, to give back the solidarity I received, and I live every day trying to become a better person."

"When I give other victims the comfort I wanted to receive during (the incident), my condition also improves," she said, adding, "Solidarity is how I protect and heal myself."

Ms. A was also victimized online, with her personal info being circulated as an employee (of studio ppuri) even though she did not draw the so-called "pinched hand". Malicious posts insulting her were also frequently posted.

On June 14, A. filed a complaint to the Seocho Police Station for 41 online posts on charges of defamation under the Information and Communication Network Act (정보통신망법상 명예훼손), stalking (스토킹처벌법), violation of the Special Act on Punishment of Sexual Offenses (obscenity using communication media) (성폭력범죄 처벌 등에 관한 특례법 위반(통신매체이용음란) ), and insult (모욕). However, the Seocho Police Station dismissed all of Ms. A's complaints, citing reasons such as she had "sympathized with feminism."

When the case was first reported on, online collective complaints to "correct the sexist rhetoric" as well as criticism from the political sphere erupted. The Seocho Police Station, which continued to deny any problems until the following day, the 6th, saying that "it was due to the misunderstandings they (A's company) caused with their response that people expressed their opinions," admitted that "the investigation was insufficient" and announced in a press release on the afternoon of the 7th that it was "planning to conduct a re-investigation."

[exoluxionlove]

[INFO] EXO-CBX lawyer files a complaint against SM with the FTC.

230605 Rough Papago translation of EXO-CBX's third legal statement

"This is Lee Jae-hak, a lawyer for Lin, a law firm that acted as legal representatives for Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen (Byun Baek-hyun, Kim Min-seok, Kim Jong-dae, hereinafter referred to as "artists").

On behalf of the client, the legal representative filed a complaint with the Fair Trade Commission (hereinafter referred to as the "Fair Trade Commission") against SM Entertainment (hereinafter referred to as "SM")'s "abuse of trading status" yesterday (June 4, 2023).

Through this complaint, we reported that unfair contractual activities that ignored the correction order have been carried out in SM, even though the FTC has already issued correction orders twice against SM in October 2007 and January 2011.

In addition, we asked the Fair Trade Commission for a strict investigation into SM's violations and prompt corrective measures to correct them, and further requested a full investigation into the exclusive contracts of SM entertainers.

In fact, three of our client artists signed an unfair contract that did not reflect any corrective measures ordered by the FTC to SM in the past, and were continuously damaged by SM's abuse of trading status.

Failure to correct it even after receiving a correction order from the Fair Trade Commission is also a criminal punishment subject to up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 150 million won as a "person who fails to comply with correction measures under Article 49 (1)" of the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act.

Below, the legal representative of the party will deliver the detailed position on the FTC's complaint against SM.

1. Despite the FTC's decision to ban SM twice in 2007 and 2011, SM did not correct it.

Until the FTC complaint, the artists made a really difficult decision after careful consideration.

This is not what happened yesterday or today.

Already in 2007 and 2011, SM, not any other company, has repeated the abuse of each trading position that the Fair Trade Commission has decided to ban the act to this day until 2023.

SM has already been judged to be unfair in terms of the FTC Resolution No. 2007-488 (2007 Seogyeong 0209) on October 8, 2007 (1) the starting point of the contract period of the exclusive contract as the debut date, and (2) the contract period provisions of other entertainment agencies in the same industry. (Refer to the decision sheet on pages 3 to 5 below

In addition, SM was also judged that the FTC's Resolution No. 2011-002 (2009 Seogyeong2741) on January 13, 2011 should not again apply the extended contract period to trainees for reasons such as overseas expansion. (See the decision sheet on pages 6-7 below.)

However, SM completely ignored the FTC's public judgment and repeated unfair tyranny again by signing exclusive contracts for Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen. This is an act that directly contradicts the Fair Trade Commission's judgment made to SM itself, not anyone else, and is a mockery of national public power.

The practices and behaviors that SM has repeated so far will not only be a matter for the artists of Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen. Considering many other trainees and artists, the damage can be enormous. And considering the unfair behavior that will be repeated not only now but also in the future, we couldn't help but step up for junior trainees and artists. In response, Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen artists decided to file a complaint with the FTC against SM's abuse of trading status with the help of their legal representatives.

I hope our efforts and courage will be a small addition and hope for the protection of the rights and interests of juniors and the fair and sound development of the pop culture industry.

2. Although it has already been confirmed that calculating the end date of the exclusive contract from the time of the 'entertainment activity debut' (not from the date of the exclusive contract) is unfair to set a long-term exclusive contract at the agency's will, SM still does not follow the FTC's corrective measures.

As of October 8, 2007, FTC Resolution No. 2007-488 (2007 Seogyeong 0209) was ordered to prohibit SM from "excessively prolonging the contract period by setting the exclusive contract period to "end on the 5th year after the release of the first album" or "end on the 5th year from the date of cast of the supporting grade or higher."

However, after receiving the FTC's correction order in 2007, SM repeatedly presented and concluded exactly the same unfair provisions in exclusive contracts with Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen signed in 2010 and 2011. (Excerpt from exclusive contract of client Byun Baek-hyun below)

In this way, the expiration date of the exclusive contract can be set to "five years after the release date of the first album" or "five years after the debut date of the first work" if the artist debuts as an actor.

The Fair Trade Commission Resolution No. 2007-488 (2007 Seogyeong 0209) on October 8, 2007 also judged exactly that.

In this way, SM repeatedly presented and concluded the same unfair provisions even after receiving the FTC's corrective order in 2007, which is a criminal punishment case that must be sentenced to up to two years in prison or fined up to 150 million won.

3. Even though the FTC's decision in 2007 judged that the contract period of "five years from the debut date (not from the contract date) was excessively long, SM made a more unfair contract with a period of "7 years" in the main body of the exclusive contract and "3 years" in the annex agreement.

In the 2007 FTC resolution above, SM's exclusive contract and other entertainment agencies' exclusive contract terms were compared, and the FTC judged that SM had set an overly unfavorable contract period clause.

As shown below, according to the FTC investigation at the time, (1) other agencies in the same industry did not set the starting date of the contract as "debut date" like SM, but as from "the date of signing the contract," and (2) the exclusive contract period was three to five years below the contract period set by SM.

As a result of this investigation, the Fair Trade Commission issued an order prohibiting excessive prolongation of the contract period by setting the exclusive contract period as "5th year after the release of the first album" or "5th year from the date of cast of the supporting grade or higher."

Nevertheless, SM did not correct this and signed the contract under unfair contract conditions, which is an act that did not comply with the Fair Trade Commission's corrective measures and is a criminal punishment issue as mentioned earlier.

4. SM is violating the Fair Trade Commission's corrective order by using the expedient to apply the extended contract period uniformly for reasons such as overseas expansion that has not been confirmed at the time of signing the contract.

According to FTC Resolution No. 2011-002 (2009 Seogyeong2741), SM is not ordered to correct the other party by applying the extended contract period to all trainees without considering their individual circumstances using their trading status.

In addition, the FTC pointed out the annex agreement of Table 3 as below in the above resolution in 2011, and SM uniformly concluded the annex agreement in this form, which was judged to be an unfair contract condition.

Upon receipt of such a corrective action order, SM should no longer enter into a contract that violates the corrective action order, and even if the contract is already signed, it should be revised to suit the purpose of the corrective action order. However, SM repeatedly presented and signed exactly the same unfair subsidiary agreement provisions in exclusive contracts with Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen in 2010 and 2011, before and after receiving the FTC's correction order in 2011. (Excerpt from exclusive contract of client Byun Baek-hyun below)

And as far as the client artists know, SM has been signing an annex agreement to extend the three-year contract period for other artists due to preparations for overseas expansion.

In this way, SM repeatedly presented and concluded the same unfair provisions even after receiving the FTC's correction order in 2011, which is a criminal punishment of up to two years in prison or a fine of up to KRW 150 million as defined in Article 125 (1) of the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act.

5. The follow-up exclusive contract, which is automatically extended until the album release volume is filled, is extremely unfair as it has not even set a minimum limit on the period.

As you can see, the artist decided to calculate the contract period from the debut date, and the trainee period was added to the exclusive contract period, extended by 3 years, and the military service period was added to the exclusive contract for more than 12 to 13 years.

This is too different from the standard exclusive contract for pop culture artists (singer-centered) announced by the Fair Trade Commission based on 7 years of contract period, and SM claims at least 17 or 18 years of contract period by signing 12 to 13 years of exclusive contract.

It is pointed out again that such subsequent signing of an exclusive contract constitutes "an act of unfairly using the status of the transaction" in Article 45 (1) 6 of the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act. In other words, the long-term compulsion using a subsequent exclusive contract is considered to correspond separately to the "compulsory provision of profits" or "unprofitable provision of transaction conditions" in attached Table 2 of the Enforcement Decree of the same Act.

And Article 5, Paragraph 1 of the subsequent exclusive contract says, 'This contract is... for five years from. However, if the minimum number of albums specified in Article 4 (4) is not released within the same period, the contract period shall be automatically extended until the time of implementation.' There is no upper limit to the period of automatic extension.

In this way, the clause that the contract period is automatically extended without a cap is clearly a slave contract, and the legal representative pointed out that it is an act of "unfairly exploiting the trading position to deal with the other party," and the artists agree.

And with more than a year left of the existing exclusive contract, it is not justifiable to "tie" the artists by signing a follow-up exclusive contract without a limit on the period. SM has never paid artists a down payment for subsequent exclusive contracts.

ccording to Article 3, Paragraph 2 of the "Popular Culture Artist (Singer-centered) Standard Exclusive Contract" announced by the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the singer can notify the planner of the termination of the contract at any time after seven years. However, SM has signed a very long-term contract and is tying up the artists again a year or so before the contract ends.

6. We have filed a complaint with the Fair Trade Commission with the hope that our small courage will be helpful for the establishment of fair pop culture and junior artists.

Despite corrective action by the Fair Trade Commission in 2007 and 2011, SM has repeatedly engaged in unfair contract practices.

Such an act ignores the legitimate act of state government power, and the damage caused by it has occurred repeatedly to trainees and artists.

In response, Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen artists decided to file a complaint with the FTC against SM's abuse of trading status with the help of their legal representatives.

I hope our efforts and courage will be a small addition and hope for the protection of the rights and interests of juniors and the fair and sound development of the pop culture industry."

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