#Gordon would have a field day with this | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

candychasse · 6 months ago

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Hiii! I asked this question on the ‘Osana’ Reddit and you said you had more, SOOOO: What are all of your headcanons for the Male Rivals?? General Headcanons pretty pretty please :3

Haiii! Good to see you on here ^w^ & ofc!

(Also ignore the fact half of them don't get fun pictures or a gif I'm posting from the app lol xD)

General Male Rivals Head cannons!

Osano Najime

He is stupidly good at playground games (like rock paper scissors, go fish, etc) to the point where nobody wanted to play with him as a kid because they knew he'd win.

Favorite Pixar movie is inside out.

He actually is really good friends with Hanako. They both spend a ridiculous amount of money on blind bags together. And whenever Osano goes to the store he keeps an eye out for ones Hanako would like.

And Hanako has made him a friendship bracelet, which Osano being the tsundere he is, promptly pretended to hate it but still wears it as an anklet to this day.

Has helped organize fund raisers for local animal shelters and veterinary emergency rooms.

I feel like he has contact lenses and wore glasses in middle school. Whenever he's doing his judgemental stare his friends if he's put his contacts in that day.

He gets really into decorating and customizing his phone, like changes his whole layout, stick, phone charms, pop socket, app overlays, wallpaper, depending on what season it is.

Reads shojo manga but pretends to hate it.

^ his favorite is fruits basket

Amao Odayaka

One time he was at his great grandma's house making sourdough bread, and he accidentally slammed it on the old wooden counter so hard that he made a hole which the dough fell through to the cabinet shelf below. So not only did he break a counter he also had to scrap the whole batch. That memory haunts him and keeps him up at night.

Impulsively buys every apron he sees. He has a whole section of his closet purely dedicated to aprons.

Favorite movie is ratatouille, naturally.

He is uh, a little dense when it comes to social cues. He's nice don't get me wrong, just he isn't very good at getting sarcasm.

His favorite deserts to make are macarons and pound cake.

He has a love-hate relationship with the Gordon Ramsay show 'Hell's Kitchen' because he gets ridiculously mad at the condition the kitchens are always in. But he loves seeing the before and afters.

He runs the cooking club like a pirate ship tbh, he usually has to break up fights between the members. Except for Saki because she minds her own beeswax.

Kizano Sunobu

He has played many, many, roles in theater such as: The Wicked Stepmother From Cinderella, The Phantom of the opera, The Rat King, King George the third in Hamilton, and many more.

He can sing quite well, and took gymnastics lessons as a child so he could very much be considered a quadruple threat. (Singing, Acting, Dancing, and Acrobatics.)

Went to a preforming arts high school, but due to his family moving he had to transfer to Akademi.

His favorite animated movies are Leap! And Anastasia. Although he does have a love for old Disney aesthetics.

He has quite sensitive skin, being allergic to glycerin, so he has to be very particular about what products he buys.

Kizano plans on becoming a Broadway actor once he graduates, and because of that he is fluent in both Japanese and english, and is working on learning Spanish.

He really appreciates the club members who are stage hands, always making sure to thank them after every show.

While he is cocky, egotistical, and down right self centered at times, he does truly appreciate his club members.

He has some, interesting opinions on the other club leaders...

He likes and appreciates Amao, mainly because they both have an unyielding passion for their respective fields.

He hates and despises Asuo, because he finds him too relaxed and annoyingly positive.

He in fact does not know Oko exists.

Oko Ruto

Is very good at sewing due in part to the fact he likes to replace the button hole embroidery on his white shirts to a beige tone and the buttons to match his eyes, making it look like his buttons are eyeballs. Also because sewing comes in handy for occult/supernatural shenanigans.

Likes to visit graveyards to see if there's any intriguing tomb stones. Like funny last words, statues of the dead, intriguing ways a person died, ect.

^ he is very respectful though, only really approaching graves that are particularly old.

The occult club does more than just stalking students and summoning demons. they also practice ways to tell the future, speak to ghosts, birth chart and palm readings, and alien investigation night. (Held every other Tuesday.)

He watches BuzzFeed unsolved supernatural. Because weirdly enough true crime gives him the creeps but not ghosts and ghouls.

His favorite animated movies are, Spirited Away, Alice in wonderland, and Paranorman.

His father was a paranormal investigator, but has major Dale Gribble vibes so safe to say he runs an occult goods shop with tarot cards, oujia boards, future reading tea and eggs, and more now after being 'encouraged to retire'.

His mother is a practicing psychic who was actually brought in to help solve the murders at Akademi. She now runs an in store future reading service. Personality wise she's very much so like Jessica Rabbit, sweet charming, and a showman at heart.

Asuo Rito

This man seems like a golden retriever and he is, but sweet Lord does he not actually process his emotions. Everytime he gets upset over something he just throws himself further into training regiments.

Has like seven dogs currently and overall in his life he's had twenty.

Enjoys all sports but knows he should be focusing on just one, but he just can't pick. He enjoys track and field best, but that could just because that's what he wins the most medals for....

Took one martial arts lesson when he was ten and Budo accidentally broke his nose. Swore off martials arts ever since.

Speaking of which, childhood friends with Budo, although at first they didn't like each other because they were on opposing soccer teams.

He in fact does not know Kizano has one sided beef with him. He thinks of all the club leaders as his friends, except Kaga, he finds him creepy.

Favorite animated movie is the Incredibles.

Man is his and his teams own cheerleader, doing full on chants and cartwheels at swim meets.

^ has accidentally cartwheeled into the pool, DURING A RACE.

Mujo Kano

This man would make a better mortician than a nurse! He always gets hung up on fixing patients hair rather than filling out important paperwork.

Studying to be a pediatrician, specifically specializing in infants.

Has an unhealthy build a bear problem. He builds a bear every week and they have invaded his couch, bed, and shelves.

He is a walking disaster. Someone save him.

Osoro Shidesu

Chain smoker, no further elaboration.

He's weirdly stoic, like definitely not a party person, despite being a delinquent hooligan he reminds sorta like an old timey knight.

Rbf to the max, man came into this world with a scowl. There's not a single picture of him in his childhood where he doesn't look like a hell spawn.

Good at cooking in the same way a shady Denny's chef is good at cooking. Like cigarette in hand, cussing under his breath, while making the best funfeitti pancakes known to man.

It brings joy to his grinchy little soul to see a slug bug. Like in ironically giggles when he sees one.

Also thinks clowns are hilarious. In another life he'd be a shady circus owner.

He either has the cutest softest smile known to man, or the creepiest smirk ever.

Favorite animated movie, Up and lady and the tramp.

At his core he does believe in fairness. If a guy is harassing a waitress he won't hesitate to take him outside iykyk.

Hanako Yamada

Has gotten his arm stuck in an arcade machine after trying to just grab the plushie he wanted. The fire station was called and had to help get him out.

Wears keychains on his belt loops of his favorite characters like Keroppi, Hello Kitty and Mimi, and Happy from fairy tail.

Is actually not that social around those he doesn't know, personally I like to think he has some form of social anxiety which prevents from getting close to many people.

The reason why he dresses so cutely is that he figured that even if people stared at him, at least he'd know why rather than just being clueless.

Favorite animated movie is the toy story saga which he cries to every time he rewatches.

Really enjoys playing matchmaker with people he knows, for example in middle school he introduced his aunt to his homeroom teacher, leading for them to get married three years later.

Loves playing animal Crossing (and spending a ridiculous amount on leaf tickets in pocket camp)

Has an absurd amount of plushies, except he does know how to stack them properly to make it seem like he only has a few.

Is studying to be an architect or interior designer, he hasn't quite decided yet but he hopes to someday make homes that'll reflect his clients essence.

Has two pet hamsters, Hamtaro and Hamantha.

Megamo Saikou

Denser than cement when it comes to how much things cost. Not like business expenses because he's been trained for that, but he does think a loaf of bread costs twenty bucks.

Was a premature baby and had a heart problem causing him to be rushed into surgery nearly immediately after being born.

Would be studying to be a brain surgeon if he wasn't set in stone to inherit the company.

Actually rather appreciates the arts, such as art galleries and musical theater.

Favorite animated movie is sleeping beauty.

Likes to people watch, he finds it amusing to see how others live.

Is a horrible cook, like cannot make box Mac n cheese.

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yall-batman-fanfic · 9 days ago

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Family Sports Day [PTA Rivals Sequel] | Batfam x Batmom x Batsis

Synopsis: With Valerie now in school, Vivian and Bruce are, once again, active in the PTA at Gotham Academy, along with old rivals.

When was the last time the entire family came together? The holidays? Valerie's birthday? Thanksgiving – no, Duke spent that with his family and Jason was out of the country for a job, and Dick and Barbara decided to spend it with the Gordon family that year. It's been a while since they saw each other, and when they looked at it, one of the rare times they all were together – that was not for their superhero work – was for Valerie.

Life was just really busy for them, Vivian would remind them whenever Jason and the others would feel bad for not being able to attend any supposed family holiday (but they make sure to shower her with gifts of appreciation for Mother's Day). They know about that reality too. That was their entire childhood afterall. Compromises, missed schools, missed holidays.

But when Valerie called all of them using her mother's phone to tell them about Family Sports Day at school…

How can they say no to that? Especially when she said to them in their video calls: “We have a Family Sports Day at school this Friday – will you be there?”

Jason was in Hong Kong when he got the call, Dick was running around Bludhaven chasing a criminal with Oracle behind the computer and transmitting the call to them both, Tim was with the Young Justice (Kon, Cassie, and Bart were there in the background). Everyone was busy but how can they say no to that?

Or maybe it was the sight of Damian and Duke at the background who had the face saying: you better be there.

No – it was definitely because Valerie asked them, and the fact there were “a lot of games for big brothers and big sisters to play” – her exact words. They were going to win all of that for her.

Now, with Family Sports Day there, Valerie was happily playing a game with Damian as their family drove to her school.

Looking at the rear-view mirror, Vivian smiled at the sight of Damian and Valerie, and the fact they wore similar shirts with the family team jersey – they were Team Red (which gave Vivian the excuse for her to wear the Manchester United shirt merchandise for the event).

“Are you excited, Val?” Vivian asked her six-year-old daughter.

“Yes!” Valerie answered. “Are you going to play, Mom?”

“Yup, I'll make sure to win the Mom's Sprint.”

“How about Da?”

Bruce glanced at the mirror from the driver's seat and answered: “I'll play with the Dads. And I think your brothers and sisters will also be there.”

“Todd mentioned that they have group sports,” said Damian. “We'll play there.”

“What about Grandpa?” Valerie turned to Alfred, who sat beside her car seat.

Alfred smiled sincerely and said, “Not today, Ms. Valerie. The Doctor said I mustn’t exert too much effort today.”

“It's okay,” Valerie held her grandfather's hand. “We'll just eat ice cream.”

“Yes, I would very much like that.”

Arriving at Gotham Academy, Vivian and Bruce noticed the familiar car and motorcycle in the parking spaces. Dick and the others were already there, and they have probably found a spot for them to settle in. They were right, because when they got to the huge field inside of Gotham Academy’s campus, they found Dick and Barbara setting up the picnic blanket, Jason setting down the cooler with Duke bringing the drinks, and Tim buying from the food trucks that the PTA got for the event, with him were Cassandra and Stephanie.

“Jay!” Valerie let go of Damian and ran across the field to greet him.

Jason grinned and opened his arms to catch her, when she tackled him, Jason lifted her off the ground and lets her hug him tightly. “Hey, bug,” he greeted her.

“Jay, I missed you! Where did you go this time?”

“Hong Kong, but before that I was in Japan, and I got this for you,” he dug in his pocket and pulled out a small wooden doll that had a painted face, hair, and kimono.

Valerie accepted the gift and thanked him for it. “Are you staying to play today?”

“Yeah, and I'm gonna win all of it.”

“Jason, we're signed up for the obstacle course and volleyball,” Dick reminded him. “They're team sports.”

“I'll still win them.”

“You're playing volleyball?” Stephanie asked. “Cass and I are signed up for soccer.”

“Football!” Valerie corrected her, teasingly.

“Yeah, yeah,” Stephanie tickled her. “I miss you!”

“Hi, Val!” Cassandra held the girl's hand.

“I'm glad that you all came,” Bruce told Dick and Barbara.

Dick and Barbara chuckled as they remembered how Valerie called them.

“It's not like we could say no to that call,” said Barbara. “Valerie knows how to get everyone together.”

“Barbara,” Vivian greeted the woman with an embrace. “Haven't seen you in a while now. How is everything?”

“Great,” Barbara said. “Settling in at Bludhaven. You?”

“Could use a drink, and I'm glad that Val's happy and that everyone's here too. I guess this is our family reunion for the year, huh?”

“We'll see.” I’m glad that everyone’s here, but looking at our crowd and the others… I think we kind of overdid it.”

Barbara raised a brow at her, teasingly. “Really? I mean, in the big brother category, Dick and the others seem to be much older and bigger than the rest. Tim, Duke, and Damian seem to be the only ones who actually fit the category.”

“I know, but is it really bad if it’s because of…”

Right on cue, a woman appeared just beside their picnic sight was a woman that Bruce and Vivian did not expect to see there. After all, Sharon Lawford’s kids have graduated from Gotham Academy, so what was she doing there?

“Vivian, wow!” Sharon greeted her. “It has been a long time since I saw you and in Gotham Academy too!”

Vivian and Barbara shared a look before she faced the woman with her practiced smile. “Sharon, it’s been a while. I wasn’t expecting you to be here.”

“Well, when my grandson asked me to come for Family Sports Day, I couldn’t say no. I see the whole pack is here,” she nodded to the direction of Bruce and the others who were getting ready for the day and watching over Valerie as she did pull-ups (assisted by her father) on a tree branch.

“When Valerie told them about Sports Day, they couldn’t say no either. I guess your whole family is also here,” Vivian gestured to the Lawfords at their spot.

“I do have more than one grandchild, Vivian. They all go to Gotham Academy, so it’s only normal that everyone would be here.”

“Right, and what a coincidence, they’re all in the same team,” Barbara pointed out.

“I know, right! What a coincidence, it’s like it’s meant to be! When we found out, we had shirts made – see!” She turned to her back to show the customized shirt that had — “Team Lawford!” Sharon said.

“That’s nice,” Vivian said as she pinched Barbara to stop snickering. “I’m glad that everyone’s there. Val’s just glad that everyone got together for this day, and that she and Bunny are on the same team.”

“Bunny Vreeland?”

“Yes. I better get back and see that everyone’s settled in for the day. See you on the field, I guess?”

“Just because I have beautiful grandchildren, Vivian, doesn’t mean I can’t do a little exercise. Who knows, we might go against each other in the games!”

Vivian ended the conversation there and went away with Barbara and whispered to the woman’s ear: “She’s going down.”

“Dick did say that you and Bruce have some sort of rivalry with the Lawfords.”

“She’s a complete ass!” she hissed in a whisper. “Don’t think I didn’t see right through what she meant about going up against each other in the games – she’s in the grandparents’ games! I’m a Mom, not a grandparent! Mind you, I’m younger than her – Bruce and I have a six-year age-gap!”

Barbara snickered and wrapped an arm around the woman. “Okay, Mrs. Pryor-Wayne, let’s get you an ice cream to cool down before you destroy and recreate this entire universe all because of some old PTA rivalry.”

~*~

The first event was for the kids – this event was for them after all – with cornhole, where each eat are given pouches of sand to throw and shoot into the holes with scores written on each. Valerie and Bunny played with their classmates in this game, both doing their best in throwing the small pouches of sand to throw. The entire time, as Valerie waited and had her turn, her family were cheering her and Bunny on. Dick even got out his phone to take photos and videos of the event.

“Come on, Valerie!” Damian called out. “Remember our training!”

“Kick their asses — hey, hey, hey! That kid just pushed her! Hey, that's a foul!” Jason called out.

“Guys, calm down,” Duke told them. “Before we're asked to leave.”

“Damian – Jason, don't!” Vivian pulled them away before they could charge at the kid who accidentally bumped into Valerie and got her landing on her hands, but she did get up and raised a thumbs up at them saying that she was okay. “She's okay!”

It wasn't Valerie's team who won this game, it was Lawford's team – Team Green – who won and they were not shying out from gloating. Even Sharon and Warren Lawford had a look that says they won this one. But Valerie didn't care, she was having fun, she even cheered with Bunny and told her: “We’ll get them next time!”

“We better!” Bunny huffed and then said to their other teammates. “Sack-race team, you better win this!”

Bruce chuckled when he saw little Bunny Vreeland try to give a pep talk to her team while Valerie stood at her side and tried to focus for the next game.

“What a familiar sight,” Veronica Vreeland said, appearing at Bruce's side with ice cream.

“She reminds me of when we were in Gotham Academy,” said Bruce. “Bunny sure is very much like her mother.”

“Well, of course! And I see Valerie’s no different from you when we were kids.”

“And that is?”

“Minding her own business and obsessing on the next game… she might have Vivian's eyes but she does have that look you always have before any game.”

Bruce turned to his daughter and saw her sitting on the grass with the others, quiet, her eyes looking into nothing, while she listened to whatever Bunny Vreeland was telling her now.

After the sack race, which Lawford's team won again (“Are you sure those kids aren't on steroids?” Jason whispered to Dick), it was the long jump, which Valerie was a part of for both events: the standing long jump and the running jump.

“You can do this, Penny!” Stephanie called out.

“Come on, Baby!” Vivian cheered.

“Remember our training!” Damain called out.

“Just relax and make sure to tuck and roll when you land, okay?” Dick reminded her from the sidelines.

Hearing their cheers and reminders, Valerie threw them a thumbs up and said: “Okay!” then waited for her turn. First to do the jump for their team was Bunny for the standing long jump. She set the record for everyone to beat, a couple of her teammates got close to her landing, some a little far off, when it was Valerie's turn, she got all her strength and jumped —

And landed just a couple of inches from Bunny's mark.

The loudest to cheer was Jason.

When it was the long running jump, Valerie was the last in the line. Like before someone set the record for everyone to beat, and those who followed either got close, were far off, or advanced from the mark. Then it was Valerie’s turn. The girl was quiet the entire time as she got her focus. When the teachers gave her the signal to go, Valerie started with a sprint, then made her jump at the mark, giving it her all. Upon landing on the sand, she tucked and roll and got on her feet to see the mark. She was far into the lead, setting the farthest record of all of her teammates and their rivaling team.

“YEEEES!” Dick roared and whistled. “YES! THAT'S MY SISTER! I TAUGHT HER THAT! SEE THAT –”

“Dick, calm down,” Tim told him. “People are staring.”

Seeing and hearing their cheers, Valerie ran back to her family for a snack – it was recess – all sweaty and covered in dirt.

“Nice one, kiddo!” Dick gave her a high-five.

“You did good, Valerie,” said Damian.

“Come on, man, you can do better than that!” Duke nudged him, then he turned to Valerie and gave her a fist-bump. “Good job, Vee.”

“Are you hungry, Val?” Vivian asked as she went to wipe the sweat off the girl's face.

Valerie nodded then joined her father and her grandfather at the picnic blanket where they congratulated her for getting the longest jump record. “Did you see that, Da?”

“I sure did,” Bruce chuckled and handed her a sandwich. “Don’t eat too fast or you'll get a tummy ache.”

Valerie nodded and munched away. When she saw Veronica and Bunny, she waved at them to join their blanket. Bunny wasted no time in running to where she was and joined their picnic, Veronica followed with their blanket and basket.

“I look at that,” Veronica nodded at the direction of Sharon Lawford. “Someone’s not too happy that Team Wayne is winning.”

Vivian chuckled. “Ronnie, it's not Team Wayne — it's Team Red.”

“Alright, whatever you say, your majesty. But come on, everyone knows who really is battling this out.”

“Da!” Valerie called for him. “Da, picture?”

Bruce excused himself from Ronnie and went to his daughter who he scooped off the ground and got on his shoulders, then held Vivian’s hand as they went to the booth where Dick and the others were waiting for them to join the photo booth.

~*~

The next event was for the older siblings, giving the kids time to rest a bit after all that excitement. It was the football match for the older sisters. Cassie, Stephanie, and Barbara went to their places – Barbara got called out by one of the parents, saying she wasn’t Valerie’s sister (it was Sharon who called her out), but then Barbara revealed her engagement ring and said, “by law, I am!”. Battling against Team Red was Team Green, or Team Lawford who had four Lawford young women in the field.

Barbara snickered and whispered to Stephanie and Cassandra: “This is going to be easy.”

“We’ll win this,” Cassandra said.

“I can do this in my sleep,” Stephanie teasingly yawned.

As they got into position, the other team were sure to see a totally different side of the three young women as a look of determination were on their faces. The whistle was blown, and Barbara was quick to get control of the game. She, Stephanie, and Cassandra ran across the field, passing the ball to each other and the other players of the team. But when it was time to score, it was Cassandra who made the striking kick and missed the Lawford goalkeeper by a hairline.

“GO, CASS!” Valerie called out from Jason’s shoulders.

“They’re taking this a little too serious,” Vivian whispered to Bruce and Alfred.

Alfred chuckled. “Well, they did promise Ms. Valerie that they would win the match.”

And true to their word, Team Red won the game with Barbara making the score.

Valerie cheered with her classmates and family for Team Red’s win.

The Lawfords were not too happy.

~*~

The day progressed with more games for the kids which the Red Team and Green Team battled over. Each win they had, the Wayne children were cheering for her, and then baseball for kids came, and Valerie was playing.

The hitters for the game was Team Red and Team Green as their opponents. The first to be a hitter was Bunny, and the girl was determined to win. When the ball came at her, Bunny hit it and started running, she got to the base just before the opponents could save the marker. Then, a couple of kids later, it was Valerie’s turn. She prepared herself with the bat, and when the ball came at her she hit it without hesitation and made a run for it —

Or not.

Just as she was to take a step, she tripped and landed on her face. Hard. Looking up, the girl saw the Catcher snickering at her and his foot out. He tripped her!

“Strike One!”

“Hold on! Valerie’s bleeding!” One of the teachers called out.

“Val?” Vivian and Bruce ran to her side, crossing the field to see her. When they got to her, Bruce helped his daughter to her feet and inspected what was wrong. The blood was coming down from her nose and her mouth.

“Val, is everything hurting?” Vivian asked as she prepared the spell to inspect any injury and heal them.

Though she had tears in her eyes, Valerie shrugged, then she spat on her palm, getting a cringed reaction from the Catcher, and showed too her parents what it was. “My tooth came out!”

Vivian and Bruce sighed in relief and laughed.

“Is that right?” Bruce said, taking the bloody tooth. He beckoned to Jason to bring the cold drink. “Come on, let’s get you to the blanket.”

“But the game’s not done,” said Valerie.

“Yes, but baby, you’re bleeding,” Vivian pointed out.

“I’m not hurt! My tooth just came out! I wanna keep playing, please.”

Vivian turned to Bruce and saw him smile and nodded. “Okay,” she sighed and wiped away the blood from her chin and her nose. “As long as nothing hurts.”

“I promise, Mom!” Valerie held out her pinkie.

Vivian hooked her pinkie with her daughter’s and kissed her fist as Valerie did the same with her own. “Okay. Your nose doesn’t seem to be broken and Momma fixed it too, to stop the bleeding,” she winked.

“With your fire?”

“Yup, with my fire,” Vivian fixed Valerie’s clothes, hair, and hat then said to the teacher, “She wants to keep going.”

“You sure? That looks like a lot of blood,” said the teacher.

“She’s a tough kid,” Bruce reassured them. “And she says she’s not hurt.” Turning to his daughter, he said, “Make them eat your dust.”

Valerie grinned.

“Here, baby bird,” Jason finally approached them. “Just to stop the bleeding and to clean your face.” He handed her a cold water bottle which she drank from and used to clean her face. “Knock em dead,” he winked at her.

Returning to the sidelines, Vivian and Bruce watched intensely as Valerie reassured her teachers that she was okay to play.

“That was a little too over the top, don’t you think?” Sharon Lawford approached them.

Vivian, this time, did not hide her rolling her eyes. “What is?”

“The way you both went to Valerie. Come on, it’s a sport. If she can’t handle it, she shouldn’t be out there.”

“My daughter is raised with five older brothers and two badass sisters, she’s had her fair-share of bumps and bruises. I know that she can handle it, but that doesn’t stop me from making sure she’s okay,” Vivian told Sharon. “And just so you know, Valerie can kick that little turd’s ass if she wants to.” She pointed at the Catcher’s direction, who happens to be Sharon’s grandchild.

“You dare call my grandson that?!”

“Yeah, I dare. If you’re going to fight dirty. I can’t wait to beat your ass in the games, Sherwin Lawford.”

Dick and the others were sure that steam was coming out of the woman’s ears as she glared at Vivian.

“It’s Sharon, and see you at the field, Vivian.”

“Oh you will! And the last thing you’ll see is my cute ass while you chase after me to the finish line!”

Before she could attack Sharon, Bruce wrapped an arm around his wife’s waist to keep her in place, then whispered to her ear, “Calm down. The game is about to start.” Then he placed a kiss on her neck.

Vivian let out a frustrated groan and went to face the game and focus on Valerie instead.

“This better be the last time I see that woman in Gotham Academy so help me–”

“Okay, time for ice cream,” Barbara handed Vivian an ice cream cup. “Cool off before you burn the whole field.”

“Trust me, this is calm, “ Vivian shoved ice cream to her mouth.

“Really? Because that doesn’t look like…” Stephanie trailed off but was stopped by Cassandra and said: “Mom’s calm.”

“What?”

“Yeah, Viv’s calm,” Duke told Stephanie.

“She’s really calm,” said Tim.

The game continued, and this time after Valerie hit the ball, she jumped over the foot that the catcher was about to push out and ran and ran and ran. She jumped over the others who were about to sabotage her run, and just as the pitchers were to touch base, Valerie skidded on the ground saving the marker.

“Safe!” The teachers called out. “Team Red wins this round!”

“THAT’S MY GIRL!” Vivian called out.

The next game, Valerie was the pitcher while Team Green were the batter. This was a piece of cake. She always plays catch with her brothers and her mother and father. Damian even taught her how to aim! The first throw--

“STRIKE!”

Lawford, the batter, huffed and prepared again.

When Valerie got the ball back, she prepared herself. It would take Lawford some time to get used to her throws, so it was okay to still use the same technique, so she did.

“STRIKE!”

Lawford let out a groan of frustration and prepared again.

Valerie had the ball again. This time, Lawford would know where the ball would come from and where it would be. So, she added a little twist to this throw. Instead of going with her Fastball, she did a Slider.

“STRIKE! YOU’RE OUT!”

Valerie smirked at the Lawford boy, and the boy cried at his loss.

In the end of the game Team Red won with Valerie’s continuous fast and unpredictable throws. It made the other dads and other kids wonder how a six-year-old would know baseball pitches and execute them – not as perfectly but she did them.

~*~

“It’s our turn now,” Dick got up. “Turns out, not many big brothers in our team, so I guess we’ll all head to the field… and that guy who volunteered to be the sixth player.”

Eating her snack, Valerie waved at her brothers as a way to say goodluck. It was the volleyball game this time and Bruce and Vivian knew that this was going to be interesting, especially when the opposing team consisted of Lawfords and Fallbrooks, and the fact those two families’ kids have been picking on Valerie and Bunny. This means war.

The boys were given numbered jerseys to help the referees identify the players easily. Their lineup was an interesting one, with Dick, Duke, and that other guy as middle blockers, Tim as the setter, and Damian and Jason as the Wing Spikers.

Vivian, who sat on the picnic blanket with Valerie sitting on her lap, and Bruce and Cassandra beside her, sighed as they realized how the game would look like. This wasn’t going to be a game at all. This was just obliteration to the opposing team.

“Want more apples?” Cassandra offered a slice to Valerie.

Valerie nodded and thanked Cassandra by crawling to her lap so they could watch them came together, giving Vivian the freedom to move around and be closer to her husband who offered her a bite from his food.

“I have a bad feeling about this,” Vivian said.

“I do too,” Bruce chuckled. “Who’s Val’s tooth — rather, lack of tooth.”

Vivian laughed. “She’s fine, she ate ice cream to stop the bleeding. I’m just glad that she’s okay.” The game started and the one to serve was Damian, and just as they expected the boy’s service was precise and targeted the spot that would make the setter and the wing spiker unable to move. Seeing that Damian was destroying the enemy side with his serves (Jason and Dick were already sitting on the ground, bored out of their minds), Vivian and Bruce decided to get some snacks.

“We’ll be back,” Vivian told Cassandra and Valerie.

“Okay – oh! Mom, can I have ice cream?” Valerie grinned cheekily.

“You already had ice cream earlier,” Bruce pointed out.

“But my tooth fell out,” she pouted.

Vivian smiled at her and then pinched her nose. “No. You’ve had enough ice cream.”

Valerie got out her mother’s teasing and snuggled in Cassandra’s embrace. “Mom!” She whined.

“How about an adobo tacos from the food truck instead? It’s almost lunch now anyways.”

“Okay!”

“You too, Cass?”

“Yes, Mom,” Cassandra nodded.

“You three too?” Vivian asked Alfred and the others. They all agreed to having tacos.

Walking arm in arm, Vivian and Bruce went to the food-trucks to get food for everybody, as they did, Bruce suddenly had a thought. Just between the two trucks selling vegan and vegetarian products, he pulled Vivian between them where no one was around, and had her against the wall.

“Bruce, what are you doing?” Vivian laughed.

“I missed you, that’s all,” He leaned down to kiss her. “You’ve been busy all week to help get this together.”

“And us sneaking between a vegan food trucks is your way to get us that much needed time alone?” She slung her arms just around his neck and brushed the whisps of his hair, just as she always does and he liked.

“I love our family —”

“Don’t even think about adding a ‘but’ to that, my love.” She had a teasing glare.

“—I really do, even if they tend to take every minute of our days and —”

“Cockbocks you?” Vivian smirked.

“Yes,” she got on her toes and kissed him again and again. “But it’s not like we can do anything here on school grounds.”

“I know,” Bruce nuzzled at the base of her neck, kissing that spot he knew she liked. “Then just a few minutes alone.”

“Okay, just a few minutes,” Vivian cradled him in her arms and let him hold her. “I missed you too, Bruce.”

“Val did good today.”

“She did. She’s very much like her father. A fighter.”

Bruce chuckled. “She’s very much like her mother… She's stubborn.”

A cough broke their peaceful moment. Bruce let out a muffled groan and got up as they faced Sharon Lawford and her husband, along with a band of moms from the PTA.

“Sharon,” Bruce greeted. “Warren.”

“Bruce, Vivian,” Sharon said with her mocking smile. “Must I always remind you that this is a school —”

“Yeah, yeah, we know,” Vivian held her husband’s hand. “It was just a hug. Not like I was giving him head, so calm down, Karen.”

“It’s Sharon.”

“That’s what I said. And, see you later at the games — and Warren, I think you and Bruce are going up against each other at the Dad’s basketball match?”

“And the family obstacle course – the mom, dad, and the child gets to play,” Sharon added.

“Right. See you then.”

~*~

Returning to their spot with food, the match just ended the first set with Team Red winning. According to Barbara, Damian eventually had to let the other team get a hit with his serves so there would be an actual game, Dick and Jason were already napping, while Duke and Tim were asking Steph for snacks while they waited for a rally. Still the expected results happened with the “Wayne boys”, as everyone called them, conquering the court.

Before the next set, Dick and Jason asked for a bite from their tacos and a drink before going back to their side of the court.

“We got you food right after you win this game,” Vivian told them.

“Oh, so it’s either we win or we don’t get food, huh?” Dick snickered. “Noted, didn’t know a lot is at stake.”

They won the next match without breaking a sweat, but they can’t say the same for their opponent with Jason and Damian’s powerful spikes, which were supported by Tim’s incredible setting, Dick and Duke’s blocking abilities.

“I think you broke those guys’ arms with your spikes, Jason,” Barbara pointed to the direction of the opponents seeking medical attention to see if they broke their arms receiving those spikes.

“Did you see that, Val?” Duke sat beside her. “We won the game.”

“Yeah! You did really great, Duke!” Valerie handed him his taco. “I can’t believe you can jump that high – higher than Dick! Can you teach me that?”

Duke laughed awkwardly. They were not supposed to tell Valerie anything about the vigilante lives of everyone in the family. “You know, Dick’s been training me at the gym. Maybe I can teach you how to jump that high, but you’re already great at jumping – I saw your game at long-jump.”

“But I wanna jump that high!”

“Val!” Bunny ran towards her and started pulling her. “Come on, the next game’s about to start!”

~*~

The next few games the children played for the scores they needed to win the trophy for their team. Valerie and Bunny were leading their whole group the entire time, adamant in getting the trophy. By the end of it, it was tied for both teams, and the only remaining games were the ones for the parents and the family-relay.

After the kids have tired out in their games, the moms were given a simple game of dribbling or rallying, using a soccer ball or a volleyball they have to keep the ball from falling to the ground for as long as they can, and each minute they keep the ball up would be a point. Vivian took the football while Sharon took the volleyball.

“May the best woman win, Vivian,” Sharon said.

“You too,” Vivian shrugged.

The game started and Vivian started dribbling the ball, using controlled kicks and receives to keep the football from falling to the ground and from flying off. Many moms have lost to the round before a minute could pass, then there’s Vivian who was determined to be in the game longer, and with her was Sharon who was doing her best.

Just as they were to pass the five-minute mark, Sharon’s ball knocked Vivian’s away from her, knocking them out of the game.

“Sorry, lost control for a second,” Sharon shrugged.

“I guess the only way to settle this tie with with the Dads’ basketball and the family relay,” Vivian said as they saw the score.

“I guess so.”

Walking back to her family, Vivian was greeted by pats on the back from them but she went straight for her husband who she pulled down to her height and said to him: “Destroy them.”

Bruce glanced at Dick and Alfred before answering: “Yes, Ma’am.”

Satisfied with his answer, Vivian went to pick up her daughter who was congratulating her for the high score.

“I wanna play football too, Mom!” Valerie said.

“We can play at the Estate, there's lot of space there.”

“I wanna do those things you did too!”

“Whatever you want, my baby girl!” Vivian kissed her cheek, making Valerie giggle.

When the Dads’ basketball started, Bruce was battling against Warren and the other dads in Team Green. He did have his team to help him in the game, but it was no surprise that Batman was a shooter. He didn't dunk, he would shoot two-pointers or three-pointers the entire time, and outrun his opponents.

To say that his team won was an understatement. Team Red obliterated Team Green, and Valerie couldn't be any prouder of her father for it. She ran across the field to congratulate him, and Bruce carried her on his shoulders so he could also get the congratulatory kiss from his wife.

“Do I get a prize?” He whispered.

“When we get home and if Val decides to sleep early tonight,” Vivian replied.

“I'm sure she will.”

~*~

The last game was family relay. It was supposed to be a three-part race, but then the issue of having twins in one of the classes was raised and they had to adjust it so it was now a four-part race. For Team Wayne, Damian joined the relay and promised Valerie that he was going to win the match for them.

At the starting part of the line were the kids, all wearing the team colors, and the baton that they will be passing, then a couple of paces ahead were the dads, then the siblings or cousins or volunteer proxies, and then the moms.

When the whistle was blown, the kids started to run. From the sidelines, Dick and the others cheered for Valerie as she ran, trying her best to get ahead of the other kids from the other teams.

“MAKE THEM EAT YOUR DUST, PENNY!” Bunny called out, startling Duke and Stephanie who were right beside the Vreelands.

“What can I say? She takes after her mom,”Veronica smirked at them. “Every Wayne needs a Vreeland to pull them out of their introvert-cave.”

Stephanie snorted at that. If only Veronica know how literal she was being right now.

From the last part of the relay, Vivian cheered for Valerie.

“Mrs. Wayne, I'm not sure if you remember me but I'm Sharon Lawford's daughter-in-law,” said the Mom beside her.

“I remember you, you and Dick used to be classmates at school. Laurie, right?”

“Yeah – well, that’s my nickname – it's Laura, but Laurie's fine. How is Dick, I hear he's engaged?”

Valerie finally reached her father to pass the baton, and Bruce was Batman-running and jumping across the obstacles to get to Damian before the other fathers could pass their batons.

“Yeah, and about time too. I've been rooting for them since they started dating, really,” Vivian chuckled. “And if they do plan to start a family, I don't mind being a grandmother.”

“It's nice to see that Dick's happy. You wouldn't know but we used to date back in school.”

“Did you now? That son of a bitch never told me,” Vivian snickered.

“You know, my son, Cal, would always talk about Valerie – I think he's got a little crush on her. I was wondering if you want to have a playdate with them — I know that you and my mother-in-law don't really get along that well, but I think, for the kids, it'd be nice if they were friends.”

Damian got the baton and was doing monkey bars without breaking a sweat.

Vivian turned to Laurie and smiled. “That would be nice. I'll ask Val if she wants to hang out with Cal. She's a kid with a big heart… but I can't say for that turd who tripped her.”

“Patrick?” Laurie laughed. “Yeah, he's my nephew and all, but he's a total ass.”

“I know!”

“He would shove boogers into Cal's ear, it's disgusting!”

Damian was almost there, and Vivian got ready.

“Nice chat but I got a race to win,” Vivian told Laurie.

“Mom!” Damian handed the baton, and Vivian ran. It was a sprint from here, and she was running fast across the field, racing neck-a-neck with the other moms, but she was paces ahead of them —

She crossed the finish line first.

At the board, the scores were placed, making Team Red the winner with the highest score of all the teams.

Seeing the win, Vivian slumped on the ground to catch her breath, but her peace was disturbed when Valerie tackled her to the ground.

“You were great, Mom!” Valerie said.

“Thank you, baby!” Vivian hugged her. “And you were great too! You ran so fast!”

“Don't I get a hug?” Damian raised a brow at Valerie.

Rolling her eyes, Valerie got up and tackled him to a hug too.

“Don't think I didn't see that,” Damian told her.

“You were great too, Damian,” Valerie grinned. “I wanna do the monkey bars as fast as you do!”

“Go, your team's getting the award.” He ushered her away to join her classmates and friends, leaving Vivian and the others on the grass being joined by their family.

“Water, Ma?” Jason offered her a bottle.

“Thank you, Jay,” Vivian had him sit beside her. “Good job everyone, you just made one little girl's day.”

“And you once again beat Sharon Lawford's ass,” Tim added.

“That's just a bonus,” Vivian leaned on her husband as they watched Valerie and the others get their photos taken with the trophy. “By the way, how do you feel about a playdate with Cal Lawford – Laurie Lafword asked if Val would be interested.”

“That's for Val to decide,” Bruce said.

“But you?”

“It's the Lawfords, Viv. Too many things are happening with them.”

“Maybe a when we head to the park instead.”

“Only in the park,” Bruce agreed.

Jason scoffed. “I wouldn't have any of them near the little bird at all.”

“For once, I agree with you, Todd,” said Damian.

Barbara snickered and said to Damian and Alfred: “And they say it's not about the rivalry.”

#batman x reader #batman #dc fanfic #fanfic #bruce wayne #batman fanfiction #dc universe #dc batman #dc comics #batfam #batsis oc #batmom

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gumnut-logic · 16 days ago

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“So, Virgil, all reports have you as the kindest and I quote ‘squishiest’ rescue operative in International Rescue. Your followers would like to know…” Kat peered down at her tablet. “How many kittens have you rescued from trees?”

The big man just stared at her. She had to admit, it wasn’t an every day question, but that was Tumblr for you.

“Umm…”

Alan snickered.

Scott frowned.

Gordon had a grin on his face fit to outshine the sun.

John rolled his eyes. “58.”

“Hey!” Virgil glared at his brother.

“Someone has to keep count.”

“Well, you’re wrong.”

The astronaut straightened in his seat, obviously affronted. “What?”

“It’s 86.”

“What?!”

“Not every one was on the clock, John. What was I supposed to do, leave them meowing?”

Scott facepalmed.

“Eos, you were told to monitor.” John frowned at his suddenly glowing watch.

A female voice snarked through the timepiece. “I have my reasons.”

“Reasons?”

“Virgil does do our supply runs, you know.”

John’s jaw dropped and Kat was hard up trying to keep a straight face.

Gordon wasn’t helping with all the giggling either.

“Virgil, I thought we had that under control.” Scott’s voice was ever so tolerant.

“I do! That is over ten years. That is only eight point six cats per year.”

Gordon snorted. “How do you save point six of a cat, Virg? Wouldn’t call that a successful rescue, bro.”

“On average. And besides, sometimes it was the same cat.”

All four of his brothers were staring at him.

Virgil squirmed where he sat. “Mr Fluffy got stuck several times.”

“Mr Fluffy!”

“I repeat, what was I supposed to do? He’s Parker’s cat.”

Scott facepalmed again as Gordon cracked up laughing enough to almost fall off his chair. John appeared to be arguing with his watch, and Alan was tennis-spectating between each of his bothers apparently not really sure how to react at all.

Kat couldn’t help but smile.

This was an interview of a lifetime and would make her career, but she had to admit it went beyond all that. The five brothers were being alarmingly candid and she was concerned that the interview wouldn’t make it past IR security.

Kayo had seemed nice enough on the ranch, but here in the studio…the woman’s eyes tracked everything. She had a team in the building, who knew where, and as a group they were nothing short of terrifying.

A little bit overkill, Kat thought.

It wasn’t like they could be overheard.

The Tracys had decided to attend the studio, but under the rigorous eye of their security…which had scoured the place clean. Only Kat, her tablet, and two holorecorders were allowed in the soundproof room. And all recording would be reviewed by that same security.

If Kat was attempting to gut the Tracys like she had originally threatened to, this might have been a problem, but as hinted on the ranch, they were not who she had thought they were, and their answers only drew her closer to the idea that perhaps the world didn’t really deserve this amazing family.

“Okay, Fish, you think I’m hilarious. How many times have we had to stop on the way home to save some sea life? Not that I begrudge you, life is life, but….hey, what is the difference between fish and cats?”

Wow, Virgil knew how to frown when riled up.

Gordon grinned, unrepentant. “Probably the tree part.”

Virgil folded his arms and totally grumped.

“Gordon?” Scott’s voice had an edge to it Kat had heard in the field.

Uh-oh.

“Yes, Scott?” Gordon appeared oblivious, but John had looked up from his watch and was frowning as much as Virgil.

“How much sea life are we talking about?”

Gordon blinked and maybe picked up on the eyebrows aimed at him. “Umm…”

Scott straightened in his seat. “Thunderbird Five, report.”

John rolled his eyes again. “We’ve spoken about this.”

“Are we including Tracy Island wildlife in this equation?” The pert young female voice spoke from John’s watch again. Really, it appeared to be a Rolex, as expected for a billionaire, but it was obviously something else.

“I want everything, Thunderbird Five.”

“Six thousand, four hundred and twenty-three, with a margin of error equal to several schools of tuna and one mola-mola.”

“Hey, I saved that mola-mola.”

“The mola-mola didn’t think so. It bit you.”

“Mola molas don’t bite.” But Gordon had his arms folded, much like Virgil now.

“I beg to differ. That was three stitches.” Virgil’s frown almost split his face in half.

“You’ve been injured?!” Scott was at full glare.

“I was doing my job!”

“Your job is to save lives, Gordon. We don’t have the resources to-”

Gordon waved an arm and nearly hit Virgil in the head. “A life is a life, Scott!”

“We can’t save everyone!”

Gordon shot to his feet. “But we can try. You’ve said it yourself many times.”

“Gordon-“ Scott rose to his feet.

Which prompted Virgil to stand up, one hand going to Gordon’s chest, the other to his advancing big brother. “C’mon, guys.”

Scott’s eyes darted to Kat and she stared wide-eyed up at him.

Gordon continued to glare as Virgil hustled him back to his seat.

“We will discuss this later.” Scott was pointing a very pointed finger at his aquanaut brother.

“Sit down, Scott.” Virgil turned his eyebrows on his eldest brother and the man backed off. He obeyed, but was still glaring, this time at Virgil.

Kat had no doubt that there would be an extended discussion on this subject in their future.

She also made a note to check on the mola mola issue. Could be something of value in that angle. Perhaps a one-on-one interview with Gordon and saving sea life.

The men settled down under the glare of Virgil in the middle. At this point, Kat was grateful she had set the chairs up the way she did. Scott was on her left, followed by John – who was glaring and mumbling at his watch again – Virgil, Gordon and Alan.

Alan appeared to be stuck on the outside of this little circus.

Maybe she could fix that.

“So, Alan, your fans are a rather active bunch.”

The young man startled, his eyes widening like he was stuck in a spotlight. “I have fans?” It came out an octave higher than she expected.

She smiled. “You most certainly do. A very active and solid group actually. We have a number of questions from them.”

“Oh, um, fire away.” His smile was brave at least.

Kat was ever so aware of the eyes of his four eldest brothers now currently targeting her.

She got the message. Be kind to the kid.

Or else.

“Okay. You are known as the astro brother.” She could have said ‘astro boy’ but her survival instincts nipped it in the bud. “Several people would like to know which star is your favourite?”

“Oh, that’s easy. Mom’s star.”

The room froze.

Not that anything actually changed. No one moved or said anything. But...

Something walked across Kat’s skin, raising her hackles.

She knew the Tracy’s had lost their mother early on. It didn’t take much to confirm that, it was public knowledge. Alan had been one at the time. He couldn’t possibly remember her.

“Which star is your mother’s star?”

It was John who answered. “Vega.”

Alan blinked in his direction and frowned. “I can talk about Mom’s Star, can’t I?”

There was silence for a moment.

“Yes, you can.” It was Scott and his voice was emotionless.

Scott had been sixteen. He most definitely remembered his mother.

“John used to take me up onto the roof of the farmhouse and we would stare at the stars for hours. Did you know that Vega has five confirmed planets?” And Alan started talking astronomy – the star’s distance from Earth, its gravity, spin, the whole bit. Alan obviously knew his stars well.

But Kat was stuck on those five planets and she couldn’t help but glance at the other four brothers, all of whom would have been affected by the loss of their mother.

They all had their professional faces on and she knew she had lost the relaxed atmosphere. She needed to get back to a lighter topic or risk losing this interview completely.

She glanced at her tablet and scrolled through the many questions awaiting an answer.

She grabbed one. “Do you ever wish on any stars?”

Alan blinked at her. “Uh…” But then he frowned, turning to Virgil. “Hey, how can 86 cats be over ten years, Eos has only been with us for three!”

Virgil’s eyes widened. “Uh…”

“Yeah, I see what’s happening here. And you!” He pointed at Gordon. “That means…”

Gordon glared at his little brother. “That means I’m doing my job.”

There was an uneasy silence after that. Scott had his eyes on her. Blue lasering her every movement.

Kat swallowed. She was a professional. She had handled presidents and prime ministers…

Electric blue reminded her of exactly who she was talking to now.

She looked away and down at her notes. “Okay, onto another topic.” She forced a smile. “Many of these questions relate to your love lives.”

All the brothers sat us straighter, shuffling in their seats.

Scott’s gaze redirected like the high beam it was, directly onto each individual brother.

She straightened her shoulders. “You’re listed as the five most eligible bachelors on the planet. Any lucky prospective partners?”

The silence was a gaping hole in the room.

“Scotty’s had a few.” Of course, it was Gordon.

Every brother glared at him.

He held up his hands in an attempt at total innocence. “Hey, I’ve been there! Virg, too!” He elbowed the heavy lifter in the ribs. “You said he asked that pilot lady out while hanging off a cliff.”

Virgil was frowning again.

Gordon rolled his eyes. “Johnny! You have to have numbers on that. How many phone numbers does he have in his little black book?”

“Gordon!” Scott, Virgil and John were almost symphonic.

That quirky female voice piped up again from John’s watch. “53.”

“Eos! Stand down.” The Commander’s voice struck out.

There was a high pitched ‘hmph’ from John’s watch and light from the device died.

Kat was hard pushed to ignore the flush on Scott’s face. Was that a touch of embarrassment?

But it was Virgil who spoke. “Ms Kavanaugh, certain sacrifices are made to do what we do. I would appreciate some understanding.” He elbowed Gordon in the ribs, obviously in revenge and a touch harder than friendly. “My brother knows this.”

Maybe there was a reason why this family hadn’t done a proper interview together before. Alan was staring at his brothers again, this time with something akin to fear on his face.

It was Gordon’s turn to frown and fold his arms across his chest.

Virgil glared at him. “Not funny, fish.”

“Just trying to help.”

Kat began to wonder if there was any footage that could be saved from this interview. At this rate she had nothing other than rescuing cats from trees.

“So why do you do it?” The question tumbled from her mouth without thought, not without a little exasperation.

All five brothers sat up straighter.

Scott. “Because when you-“

John. “-call for help-”

Virgil. “-you deserve to know-”

Gordon. “-somebody is out there-“

Alan. “-listening.”

They spoke together, over each other, but all with the same words. The passion in the room was a living thing and Kat could feel the purpose.

“This obviously means a great deal to all of you.”

A single nod from the Commander. The soft smiling big brother she had witnessed earlier was gone and what replaced him was ever so formidable.

The brothers may play around, but underneath it all were five men determined in their mission. Five of the richest men on the planet willing to devote that wealth, and their lives, to helping others.

Those blue eyes glistened.

Kat found her heart beating ever so fast.

Someone cleared their throat.

She blinked and found it was Virgil. He had the smallest of smirks on his face and his eyes were dancing in the lighting. “Do you have any further questions?”

And she found herself blushing. “Uh, yes.” She fiddled with her tablet as she gathered her thoughts.

“John, there are a number of questions for you regarding the capabilities of Thunderbird Five, ranging from ‘seeing me waving at you from my backyard’, all the way up to playing the stock market and accusations of espionage.” She drew in a breath. “Do you have any comments?”

John was the quiet and serious one. Red hair and the most gorgeous green-blue eyes she had ever see on a man. Actually, come to think of it, all the Tracy men had fantastic eyes.

The Commander’s blue were still trained on her.

She kept her attention on John.

He was a bit of a mystery as the least seen in the media. He was the Voice Who Answers, the Eye in the Sky. She wondered how much he actually saw and heard.

The man was unruffled under her full attention. “I see and hear what I need to.”

She blinked. That was very precise wording.

“Do you miss being at the centre of the action?”

“What do you mean?”

“You live on Thunderbird Five, don’t you?”

“Yes. Some of the time.”

“You often have to watch your brothers step into dangerous situations. Do you ever want to join them?”

“I do join them when necessary, Ms Kavanaugh. I am as much a first responder as any of my brothers.”

Kat held up a hand. “I know that, John. Your speciality is space. But you often have to watch from afar. How do you cope with that?”

Alan bounced up in his seat, almost jumping to his feet. “John is with us all the time. Without him, there would be no rescues.”

“But he is stuck up on Thunderbird Five-“

Scott cut her off. “John is our communications expert. He works just as hard as any of us, sometimes harder. It is not an easy job.” His eyes flicked to his younger brother. “But John is the master of it.”

“But don’t you feel helpless being so far away, only able to watch?”

Alan snorted. “John does so much more than watch.”

She targeted the youngest. “Like what?”

“He helps all the time, he-“

“Alan.” It was a single word from the Commander that had her missing that big brother persona all the more.

“But he does!”

“Alan.”

“Okay, fine. I’ll shut up.” And boy, the youngest could throw a pout better than any of the brothers so far today.

She ignored it and focussed on John. “Your thoughts?”

“Ms Kavanaugh, I do what I need to do.”

“And what do you need to do?”

“What is necessary.”

“To save lives?”

The was the briefest of hesitations. Another journalist may never have noticed.

But she did.

His answer was simple. “Yes.”

“I have a Tumblr user who claims you reprogrammed his tablet from space and now it will only play nursery rhymes.”

Those green-blue eyes darted to his right. “Perhaps you should ask him why I did it.”

“Aw, c’mon, John, it’s been six years!” Gordon’s voice was a whine. “You mess up every new tablet I buy. I said I’m sorry.”

Virgil frowned at Gordon. Virgil apparently frowned a lot. “What are you doing on Tumblr?”

Gordon switched from John to Virgil. “Well, derr, it’s the only decent blogging platform left.”

Kat scribbled a note that @gordonthesquid was actually Gordon Tracy. Thinking about it, it was pretty obvious.

She turned back to John. “How many times have you done that?”

“As many times as it takes to stop Gordon from messing with my possessions.”

“Six years, bro!”

“You’re a slow learner.”

“Ass.” The aquanaut crossed his legs and arms and turned his back on John.

Between the two of them, Virgil sighed.

Kat made a mental note never to piss off John Tracy.

Those blue eyes still hadn’t left her.

Note to self: never piss off any Tracy.

Perhaps it was fate that broke both her legs and prevented her from screening her attack on the Tracys.

She had the strongest feeling that she would never have seen him coming and no-one would have found the bodies much less counted them.

John emanated quiet confidence…and power…as he held her gaze.

Perhaps she had better wrap up the interview.

“I have many other questions to ask, but I know it has been a long day for all of you, so one last question.” She drew in a breath. “Is it worth it?”

“Yes.”

“God, yeah.”

“Of course.”

“Always.”

Scott was watching each of his brothers as they spoke, but stared at them a moment longer before answering himself…ever so quietly.

“I hope so.”

-o-o-o-

#thunderbirds are go #thunderbirds #thunderbirds fanfiction #scott tracy #virgil tracy #john tracy #gordon tracy #alan tracy #nuttyfic reblog

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latenightsundayblues · 1 year ago

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Yknow smth funny? Gordon developing a smoking fetish after the whole bathroom ordeal. To cope. And making hoffman do it after sex. And never actually doing it himself just watching as a way of picking at the scabs barely growing over his own wound. And on second thought its not really that funny at all

Oh i just KNOW freud would have a field day with those losers

#tumblr wouldnt let me edit the fucking post so i just took a screenshot of the actual ask and deleted the original. fuck you tumblr #anyways yeah. they should die your honor #saw fanart #3dshipping #saw lawrence #lawrence gordon #saw hoffman #mark hoffman #latenightsundayblues art tag #latenightsundayblues ask tag

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edutainer2022 · 6 months ago

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Many thanks to @janetm74 for her deeply moving and insightful story Grief: The Compass, and for putting up with my ramblings about the symbolism of Grandpa's compass and its meaning to Scott, as well as to Scott and Virgil going forward (especially after the revelations of Recharge). I had this little dream-like sequence in mind since the very early days of my return to TAG fandom as a intro to a larger story. Scott Tracy is, of course, very much not okay. It might not be obvious from the start, but it's true. He needs to find his way.

TRUE NORTH

The wind was ruffling early blossoms in the trees and his hair, as he jogged eagerly across the front yard to the farmhouse. Soft spring grass was tickling his bare feet. Mom was inside, he knew. He was so excited to see her.

The quiet hallway was filled with a soothing scent of cinamon and ripe late summer apples. Mom was probably in the kitchen, baking an apple pie. His favorite. He followed the wiffs of delicious smells, but the kitchen was empty. Each utensil in its place, exactly as Mom liked it. He needed to find Mom. The sense of urgency increased, as he passed the sunlit kitchen to the backdoor, out onto the porch and across the backyard. He shivered once, then twice, as a gust of vicious wind threw a handful of fallen leaves into his face. Golden and red, just like Mom's hair. Mom wasn't out back either and he was anxious now. On instinct, he followed the well-worn path to the meadow, stretching behind their old farmhouse in Kansas. Rough edges of pebbles dug into his feet so they were probably bleeding, but he kept going. He needed to find Mom!

His frantic paces came to a halt at the very edge of the meadow, though. As far as eye could see was cast in a swathe of pristine white. Snow. He knew deep down in his soul Mom was across that expanse of white. But he had no clue which way to go. Where to start. He stood at a loss, shivering, at the very edge of ice, licking his bare toes, the freezing numbness creeping up from the ground to his heart.

Then he remembered! Grandpa's old compass that Virgil made a point to give him for the duration of a rescue, would show the way. Ever since their heart to heart in the Arctic, Virgil would give him the compass before each mission so he would find his way home safely. Just like that day. He was home now, but Mom wasn't there. He dug into a pocket, and, sure enough, his fingers curled around a solid cool weight of the antique gadget. Grandpa's compass would show him the way to Mom! But something odd was happening. As soon as he opened the lid, the arrow went haywire, turning in place, never resting on any one point. Despair and exhaustion nearly choked him and his knees were ready to give. He couldn't get to Mom no matter how much he longed to! No matter how much he missed her!

He was about ready to step into the unforgiving snow and take his chances, when heavy hands landed on his shoulders, pinning him in place.

"It's not yet time, Bluejay!"

The husky whisper was close to his ear. Dad!

"It's too soon, kiddo! You have to let me go first. You can then follow in my footsteps, but not just yet! Not for a long, long time. How about we go home now, son, eh?"

He wanted to protest. Mom was there, all alone, across the field of snow. He could find her, even if the stupid compass was not helping! He needed to be with Mom! But the voice failed him, caught up on a blinding pain in his chest. Strong arms were already steering him back to face the farmhouse again.

Even from afar, he could see all his brothers standing on the back porch, watching him. Allie seemed so scared, baby blue eyes wide and full of tears, clutching the railing. Gordon was standing apart, hunched over, his face dark and lost - he appeared so small and so young. John was ghostly pale, his eyes a green sea of pain. Scott could swear his ginger brother was swaying with each gust of wind. But it was Virgil who made him gasp. Standing one step down the porch stairs, his best friend was glaring daggers at him - the always soft face contorted with fury and anguish, kind brown eyes brimming with liquid fire. What made Virgil so angry? Had he done something stupid? He hadn't lost Grandpa's Compass! Right! The Compass! He looked down at his hand, still clutching the brass shell, and the arrow had miraculously settled, pointing due North. At the center of the porch of their home. At Virgil.

He felt an insistent nudge to start moving, as the voice by his ear spoke again, soft, but urgent.

"Let's go home now, Bluejay! Just like that, one step at a time! Your brothers are waiting."

He tried once more to twist and catch the sight of Dad, but thought better of it as a sharp pain pierced through his torso again. He still needed to make it home and give Virgil back the compass, so Virgil wouldn't be so angry with him. So Virgil wouldn't go looking for him all the way by the desolate cold white meadow. He also needed to find out what made John so upset, and he certainly needed to hug the Tinies. He sneaked a peek at the compass again - it was pointing firmly Home.

#thunderbirds are go #scott tracy #scott tracy needs a hug #scott tracy needs his dad #thunderbirds 2015 #jeff tracy #virgil tracy #earth and sky #methinks i have astronomy #my fic #it's not major character death but scotty is certainly skirting the edge #again #grandpa's compass

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crascet · 11 days ago

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DC's Absolute Universe Wave 1 Write-Up (Origins and Characters)

Now that I finally have the current three Absolute Universe books, I can now talk about them. Now, DC's Absolute Universe is essentially DC's answer to Marvel's current Ultimate Universe, although I wouldn't say that it was the first time DC did something like this. About 15 years ago, DC released the new imprint Earth One, a sort of late answer to Marvel's original Ultimate universe in how it reimagines and modernizes the origins of many DC heroes, like Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, and even the Teen Titans. Now despite being a new imprint of a new universe with these newer versions of the classic heroes, there never really was a crossover in this universe as they were all stand-alone stories. Apparently in an interview a couple of years ago with Grant Morrison, they expressed how a crossover in Earth One would happen eventually, but I'm not sure if that is still in production or if it was scrapped altogether. Even then, the similarities with the original Marvel Ultimate universe are there in not just making more modern origins and stories with their characters, but with how these stories served as inspirations for a lot of their respective movies. The Earth One Universe is still going, but with the irregular release schedules, I'm feeling that DC just scrapped the whole universe entirely and they never mentioned it again.

Now back on topic here, the Absolute Universe have currently released the first two issues of what I would call the "Wave 1" series of the universe, with the debut of the Absolute Trinity with Absolute Batman, Absolute Wonder Woman, and Absolute Superman. So, for this post I will be talking about the new origins of these characters as seen in their first and second issues, express my thoughts on them and these new versions of said characters and their cast. So, let's discuss these new origins about these versions of Bruce, Diana, and Kal-El (more on that later).

Spoilers ahead as I'm talking about the new Absolute Universe here.

Absolute Batman (Snyder/Dragotta): Now I'm sure that mostly everyone knows about the origins of Batman, right? Young rich Bruce Wayne lost his parents Thomas and Martha Wayne one night after leaving the theater by cutting through to Crime Alley and ended up being shot and killed by Joe Chill which traumatized poor Bruce and ended up becoming the Dark Knight we know today. Now for the Absolute origin, there's some key changes here. For one thing, the traumatic moment that changed young Bruce wasn't at night, but during the day and at the Gotham Zoo during a field trip with his teacher, who is actually Thomas Wayne, Bruce's father. During this trip, a shooter, who is confirmed to be Joe Chill in the second issue, comes in and starts killing people, including Thomas who moved Bruce all the students in his class to a bat enclosure to protect them. Unfortunately, one of the stray bullets that shot Thomas went through the wall holding the bat enclosure and hitting the glass in front of the bat exhibit, releasing all the bats and completely cover Bruce in one of the most haunting images comic pages I've ever read. Now there are other changes here too, with the first notable changer being that Bruce's mother, Martha, is still alive and has a close friendship with Jim Gordon, who is the mayor of Gotham City in this universe, following the incident. The other difference here being that the Waynes are not rich here, instead being a more middle-class family, which shows a more grounded approach to Batman here as it has Bruce pretty much work on the ground level of Gotham, with construction and waste management.

Now for Bruce himself, we all know about the pics of how huge Bruce is, and man he is buff, literally a brick wall of muscle, which provides a more intimidating impression to him when he steps out as Batman. Another thing to note is that his entire suit is essentially a huge utility belt alongside the actual utility belt: spikes on his back, forearm guards and blades, his bat ears are actually big batarangs to be thrown, even his huge bat emblem on his chest is a weapon as it's actually the blade to a freaking battle axe he wields. But my favorite part has to be the cape, which works like how bats would use their wings to walk as Bruce uses it to be on a higher position or just uses it to grab someone at a distance and throws them with strength and velocity. Bruce himself also seems to be a bit more brutal as although he doesn't kill any criminal he comes across, he will still injure them by breaking their bones or by cutting off their hand like in the first issue.

I also just like the supporting cast here and how they're integrated here. Alfred is now a mercenary hired by a mysterious client to observe the Party Animals, a criminal group that is terrorizing Gotham being led by Black Mask, and to kill Batman if he interferes. However, he is actually inspired by Bruce on his crusade on crime and actively wants to help him and sort of act like a mentor to him. This dynamic really does compare itself to the dynamic between Terry McGuiness and Bruce in Batman Beyond, with it being a young man who wants to stop crime due to a traumatic event that ended with the death of his father being trained by an older, sort of jaded individual who is more experienced in the field. Some of Batman's rogues from the main universe here being not villains, but instead Bruce's childhood friends: Waylon Jones (Killer Croc), Ozwald Cobblepot (The Penguin), Edward Nigma (The Riddler), Harvey Dent (Two Face), and Selina Kyle (Catwoman) who didn't show up until the last page of issue 2 and would play a role in the next issue. This is a really interesting view on them as a possible what if for if they just had a normal life, but I'm willing to say they might turn into villains in the continuing series possibly.

Absolute Wonder Woman (Thompson/Sherman): Now compared the Trinity, Wondy's origins are the least well-known, with her original origin and her New 52 origin. The original origin has Hippolyta, Queen of the Amazons on Paradise Island, better known as Themyscira, wanted a daughter, so with the help of the Greek pantheon, Hippolyta created a clay figure of a baby, and the gods imbued their powers to said figure, creating Diana aka Wonder Woman. Years later, an Air Force pilot named Steve Trevor crash lands on the island and was found unconscious by Diana and decides to nurse him back to health, much to her mother's dismay. It was here that Steve tells Diana about the outside world where he hails from, which made Diana becomes curious about the World of Man. So, she decides to help Steve go back home and discover the outside world and all its curiosities. As for the New 52 origin, the main change here was that instead of being formed from clay, she is actually the biological daughter of Hippolyta and Zeus because well, its Zeus and he has sex with women all the time, but the rest is still the same.

In the Absolute Universe, it starts to be similar to the main comics, just with Circe, a sorceress and normally a WW villain in the main universe, seemingly about to make something with clay on the Wild Isle, an island located in Hell where Circe is held as a prisoner from the Greek gods. However, Apollo, the Greek god of the sun, arrives to the island in front of Circe telling her that she has a new prisoner to live with: baby Diana taken from the Amazons of Themyscira following a betrayal from them towards the gods and as a result, make the word "Amazon" to never be said again. Meaning that Circe is now stuck in Hell with a baby she doesn't care about. But as time goes on, Circe bonds with Diana and becomes a mother to her, teaching her spells and helping her find out who she actually is in such an emotional moment in the first issue. The origin follows back to the original as Steve Trevor washes ashore in Hell as Diana finds him unconscious and nurses him back to health with the help of Circe. Steve tells Diana about where he came from and helps him get back to the living world, the way they do it is not revealed yet in the story, but it is implied that it involved a resurrection spell of some sort.

As for Diana herself, she is sort of like her main appearance, but now has spells taught to her from Circe and some of her familiars, mainly her skeleton Pegasus who turns out to be the Pegasus of the original Greek myths. She also wields the Athena blade, which is a buster sword like Cloud has in FF7. Her most notable weapon here is her version of one of Wondy's iconic weapon, the Lasso of Truth. Now normally, the Lasso of Truth would wrap around an opponent and makes them tell the truth on what they've done and any sort of secrets they held. In the Absolute Universe, it's instead called Nemesis and in lieu of the original Lasso, it hurts the opponent based on how many sins they have committed, making it be a more painful experience for whoever is wrapped around it. Essentially, its similar to Ghost Rider's Penance Stare, just in lasso form. Diana herself is similar to how she in the main universe: compassionate yet stern when the situation drives her to but wants to spare life and not kill her enemies, even if they're demons.

For the supporting cast there's two notable characters: Circe and Steve. I guess there's also the Greek gods, but other than Apollo showing up in the first issue and some references from Diana in the story, they don't show up that much. Circe is Diana's adopted mother and helps her be the kind, strong, woman that she is, but is still stuck in Hell. I do have a fan theory that Circe could be the one that sent the demons to the surface world as a sort of revenge towards humanity and Diana for leaving Hell, but I'm probably leaning that she had to sacrifice herself to get both Diana and Steve to the surface world, but the rest of the first arc would reveal what happened to her now and how she was imprisoned to Hell in the first place. Steve is still the same in the main comics, a noble soldier that cares for Diana and helps her in the outside world. So not much else.

Absolute Superman (Aaron/Sandoval): Everyone and their grandmother knows about Superman, right? I not, here's a speedrun. Born on the doomed planet Krypton, Kal-El was sent in a rocket as a baby by his scientist birth parents to save him from the exploding planet, knowing there won't be a way to fix it. Kal crash lands in Smallville, Kansas on Earth, raised by the Kents as Clark Kent, Clark finds out who he actually is, Kents teach him all about right and wrong and to always help others, Clark develops superpowers and first becomes Superboy to understand his powers either by himself or from the help of the Legion of Superheroes depending on continuity. Clark moves to Metropolis after graduating, becomes reporter for the Daily Globe, meets and befriends Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen, becomes Superman, fights bald millionaires, lightning women, parasitic monsters, evil toymakers, evil Kryptonians, aliens, fifth-dimensional beings, flaming skull people, and space biker. Later marries Lois, dies in a fight one time but then brought back because of course, and finally has a son. That was not as quick as I thought, but the main components are there.

In the Absolute Universe, Kal-El had a life on Krypton before he escaped to Earth; actually, having an actual childhood there. Another change is with his birth parents, now in the main continuity, they were both part of the Science Council of Krypton or at least Jor-El, Kal's father. However, in the AU, the El's are part of the working class of Krypton, a lower class in that society compared to the science council, who are the highest class in Kryptonian society. You know the emblem on Kal's chest that stands for the House of El in the main comics? Well, that emblem stands for the working class in this universe, making Kal feel closer to his Golden Age appearance. Another thing to note is the name: Kale-El is not Clark, well right now at least. It's not revealed yet in the story, but it is clear that he fled Krypton when he was either in his teen years or when he turned to a young adult. He may have crash landed through the Kent house as revealed in the epilogue of issue 1, but its unsure if he actually met the Kent's or if the encounter didn't end well. It's all still pretty much in the dark about this Kal's origins on Krypton, but his character is honestly really interesting here.

Kal-El is still like his main counterpart in how much he wants to help others, especially the oppressed. The writer of this series, Jason Aaron, said during an interview that this Superman will feel close to his original Golden Era role, helping those that are helpless from those that have higher power over them. In issues 1 and 2, Kal helps a mining village in Brazil from the overpowering company that owns the village, the Lazarus Corporation, by helping them get diamonds in the dangerous mines, heavily filled with asbestos. Kal also has two sides to him: a brave, helpful personality in public towards those he helps and a more shy, timid personality he has with himself, which in a way feels more relatable to me in wanting to help others but still feel nervous about how to do them. As for his powers, he actually gets them thanks to his suit. In the main series, Clark simply got his powers by absorbing yellow sunlight through his skin, which allows him flight, super speed, strength, durability, freeze breath, and x-ray and laser vision. In the AU, his suit has an AI named Sol that gives him these powers at the cost of the solar power the suit gains during the day. One interesting thing to note about the suit is with the cape. The cape is actually red sunstone dust that can be activated by the suit, and the cape itself is not just a shied to protect Kal and others but can also heal those that are injured. A very unique concept of how this Superman got his powers.

For the supporting cast, there's some interesting ones here. First there is Sol, who's main purpose is to protect Kal on Earth at all costs, which includes convincing Kal to not help humans and just retreat from attackers, which Kal very easily ignores. It'll be interesting to see how Sol was created by the El's and how they wanted Sol to protect their son. Next are the villains with the Peacemakers, who are a sort of police corps that work for Lazarus Corporation, and they are the mass oppressors that take over the mining village in Brazil. Their weapons are also really cool in how they change and adapt on who the target is, which is also really terrifying when they attack the innocent villagers. Other than a certain Peacemaker who is referred to as Smith, there's not much to them. Then there's the AI that works for Lazarus, simply known as Brainiac. He's still sort of the same as the main comics, an AI figure that is into researching certain things on Earth and life on other planets by shrinking them down and putting them in enclosures, as seen in the issue 1 epilogue, with his primary focus now being on Kal. People are theorizing that this Brainiac is also a fusion of Lex Luthor given the color scheme, it could be a chance that it is, but we haven't seen this universe's version of Lex just yet as he could be the head of Lazarus, or it could be someone else leading the corporation, most likely an Al Ghoul given the connection to Lazarus in the main comics. Finally, and certainly not the least, there's Lois. Now there is one key difference between the reporter of the Daily Bugle of the original universe and this one is that she's not a reporter, instead, she's one of Lazarus' soldiers sent to take down Superman, most likely going down this path thanks to her father Sam Lane, who is a general in the main comics. During the mission, she handcuffs herself to Kal in an attempt to subdue him but it's from this, that she gets an in-depth look to Kal and what he's doing. From this, she becomes more interested and wants to know more about him. After reporting about this to Brainiac which led to the program wanting to terminate Superman, much to Lois's displeasure, she decides to write about him herself in her reports, which she very much appreciates when she does, essentially making her close to her main counterpart.

So that's the Absolute Trinity for right now, all still the same despite the changes to their origins which could make or break to you, but I really love these stories, and I'm invested in these new versions and want to learn more about them. For my favorite, it has to be Absolute Batman, with WW and Superman being tied as 2nd, I do love the action and art in WW, but I love the characters in Superman. I slightly like Absolute Superman more than WW right now, but that could change with the next issues. I will be more in-depth when their first arcs are finished, so I'll write that in the future. Speaking of the future, there's three more Absolute series coming out next year: Absolute Flash by Jeff Lemiere, Absolute Green Lanter by Al Ewing, and Absolute Martian Manhunter by Denis Camp. Out of the three, I'm excited about AMM the most as John Johns is one of my favorite characters in DC and I'm absolutely loving Camp's work with the Ultimates in Marvel's current Ultimate Universe. The Absolute Universe is going off great and I want to see where this universe goes with Darkseid and his ultimate goal and when this universe clashes with the main DC universe.

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igotanidea · 1 year ago

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Taken: Dick Grayson x f!reader x Jason Todd

Summary: he was in love with his brother's girlfriend.

Warning: bit of action,but nothing explicit, somewhat morally grey, angst, pain, hurt no comfort, no happy ending (sorry.....)

A/N: please, don't ask me for part 2, cause I don't think i could take it

***

Being around Dick Grayson was a threat to human life and Y/n Y/l/n was the perfect example of this. She was the youngest one ever to become a cop and as her first post assigned to nowhere else, but the shithole Gotham. The place where most of the officials were bought and on the call of different villains. Luckily, she was one of commissioner Gordon subordinate and that let her keep her objective side and not get bribed.

But that was also how she met Barbara. And once that happened, she was quickly acknowledged to Dick, who seemed to like her after the first glance. Y/n was fierce, never took anyone’s bullshit and knew how to take care of herself. With her quiet confidence, ability to listen, deep caring about people and sense of morality, especially when it came to the abused, Grayson soon found himself falling for her.

Not like he was going to tell her, at least not straight away.

Instead, he started hanging out with her more often and made her met the entire Wayne family causing a little teasing from his siblings and one serious conversation with Bruce who specifically warned him in how much danger he was putting the girl by getting close to the civilian. Dick only retorted something about Batman doing the same to Jim Gordon before rushing out of Bruce’s office. Yet, he was still convincing everyone that he and Y/N were just friends.

And even his vigilante instincts and observation skills didn’t make him see the slight relief on his younger brother’s face every time Dick denied allegations of the situation being otherwise.

But since the first day she got into Manor it was pretty obvious that she would become family friend, regardless of what Bruce may think about it.

Even if she only knew half of the story about Waynes.

***

What finally shifted the dynamics between those two was the moment when Y/n got into some serious trouble while working a work case and stupidly not waiting for her partner to assist her on the field. Her sense of justice and morality simply got the best of her and the girl found herself in the middle of the trap in a heavy crossfire. Who knew how this would turn if Nightwing didn’t come out of nowhere and, to put it simply, saved her ass.

“Hey!” she yelled slightly agitated, cleaning her cheek from the blood “I was handling it and …..!” she froze the second Nightwing turned towards her and eyed her carefully with the blue orbs…. “No….” The sudden realisation and recognition hit her like a truck.

“Are you all right, sunshine?” he asked taking a few steps towards her, taking her hand in his ”Please tell me you’re not hurt….”

“I…..I….. I’m not.” She stuttered “I think so, at least, but how….why.... what….?”

“Sh.” He silenced her “not here, not now. Meet me at our place in an hour and I’ll explain it all to you, all right? I promise.”

***

And so he did. Explaining everything. Leaving her in absolute shock, but also making her ask whether she could somehow join the team an help them as one of the very few “clean” officers in town. It made Dick wonder but her wide open pleading eyes and pretty face made him relent. And that may have also been what finally pushed him to kiss her. He just couldn’t hold himself anymore, all those emotions held at bay for almost a year finally finding way out. And it just felt so good to not keep it hidden anymore. But it was also terrifying when he pulled out, not sure of her uptake on the situation, ready to apologise and ask for forgiveness. But before he could say anything, she grabbed his neck and pulled him back wanting more and kissing him like there was no tomorrow. And he knew.

She loved him too.

***

For three months they somehow managed to keep their relationship at secret. Even despite her now working with bat and spending even more time at the Manor. But it just couldn’t last forever. Not with all those people around.

"Y/N, can I talk to you for....." Jason started walking into her room without knocking, but the view in front of his eyes made him freeze.

She wasn't alone. She was with Grayson. In a very unambiguous situation. To put it simple - they were kissing and sure as hell wouldn't stop at that if Jason hadn't interrupted them. Dick was already shirtless, hovering over Y/N, his hands on her waist, lips moving over her skin causing little moan to fall from her mouth.

And she fucking enjoyed it.

She enjoyed him.

There was zero room for interpretation, arching back and nails digging into Grayson's back pulling him closer being enough to break Jason's heart.

"Jason!" she hissed pushing Dick away, the cutest blush creeping onto her face as she quickly tried to fix her top "how many times do I have to tell you to knock!"

"Sorry....." he mumbled, not really sure what else to say "Just wanted to......" his gaze landed on the floor, since all of a sudden he became unable to face her.

"Is everything all right, Jace?" her tone became a bit more concerned and he just couldn't take it anymore. But neither she nor Grayson could know that.

"You two are a thing now?" he smirked back to his usual attitude

"We are." Dick nodded, his love sick puppy gaze landing on her face and she reciprocated with the same expression.

"Make sure to keep it quiet then, will you? I really cannot blast the music on full volume to drown you out or I'll go deaf" Jace rolled his eyes and as fast as he could rushed out of her room.

His cheeks were burning, his hands and legs were shaking and there was only one thing on his mind.

He was in love with his brother's girlfriend.

***

Since there was nothing he could do about that feeling he just started to ignore her. Every time he saw her walking towards him, he remembered something important that caused him to escape the room, leaving the girl confused and a bit down. She had no idea what happened to the boy she knew and who was one of her best friends. After all, he was the one closest in age to her and since they shared the love for literature, they used to talk for hours. So she didn’t understand what changed. But when he kept on acting like that for a week she decided it would be best to just leave him alone for the time being. It was Jason after all, he had his moods and phases that came and went. Y/n was pretty sure he would reach to her if he wanted. After all, Jason used to say that she was the only one to really care about him and always support him.

If only the girl knew what was going on inside Jason’s head. That every time he saw her with Dick he was burning inside. Why was she with Grayson? The one who were always there for everyone, helping other people, taking care, making sure everyone was all right and barely having time for his own girl, neglecting her? Jason would never do such thing, he would spend every minute with her, cherishing her, loving her, keeping her close.

If only she was his…..

But she was taken, just because Grayson was the first to act on his feelings while Jason chickened out, hoping, like a silly schoolboy, that she would notice his longing, loving stares from the other side of the room.

***

A few days later, he unwillingly became the witness to one of their conversations. It was the middle of the Saturday and Grayson was duty-free, but apparently he got some serious call from someone in Bludhaven, an old friend (Kory?) and without much thinking, packed his bags and got ready to came for an aid. Once Jason heard what happened, he stopped by the door and peeking through like a maniac, carefully observed the situation unravel.

“I hate leaving you like that….” Dick whispered, wrapping arms around his girl, holding her close on full display for Jason, whose heart was breaking even more, if that was even possible. Todd could swear his heart was beating so rapidly, just because of the thought that she could be touching him, instead of his brother. His fist clenched involuntarily and he barely held himself from rushing inside and breaking that little scene.

“I know, Dickie.” she hid face in the crook of his neck, pressing herself closer, not wanting to let him go “but you are a hero and people need you, I get that.”

“Say a word I’ll stay with you.’ He kissed the top of her head, caressing her back.

“I couldn’t ask that of you, Richard.” She smiled and looked into his eyes “that would be selfish of me.”

“You deserve to be selfish” Jason though biting on his lower lip hard enough to draw blood .”You deserve love and attention and not a boy who has time for everyone but you…..”

“I love you.’ Dick whispered, pressing his mouth to hers in the gentle kiss, tangling hand in her hair “I’ll be back as soon as I can, I promise, all right? And then we’ll do all those things on our list.”

“Love you more. And I hold you to your words, boy wonder.” She unwillingly let him go with a grin, but once he stepped out the door and was out of sight, her shoulders fell and she let out a heavy sigh. She did love him, truly, but sometimes it was tough and exhausting to act strong and not force him to stay with her.

Two hours later Jason found her asleep on the couch with an open book laying nearby. Judging by the force with which she was holding onto her body pillow she was imagining someone else in her embrace. She was imagining Grayson and it made Jason angry.

Grayson fucking left her.

He left that angel. That kind, gentle, compassionate and caring soul. The one who loved him with the love Grayson never deserved. He didn’t deserve her. That idiotic fucker.

If it was Jason to be with her, he would worship the ground she was walking on. She would never have to worry about a single thing. He would never cause her any pain, nor let a single tear fell from her eyes.

But she was not his to love and protect. All he could do at the moment was step forward and put a blanket over her so she wouldn’t get cold. Poor boy. And once the warm, soft material landed on her body she stirred in her sleep and smiled softly, causing Jason’s heart to drop even more.

“I love you.....” he whispered brushing a strand of hair out her face and caressing her cheek, making her lean into the touch. She probably thought it was just a dream, not a reality.

***

Dick might have been in Bludhaven for a few days, but it didn’t mean that his family wasn’t still patrolling, dealing with villains and getting hurt in the process. And since Y/N was staying at the manor, for safety reasons, of course, she quickly took it upon herself to patch all the wounds that any of the Waynes could endure.

Surprisingly, more often than not, it was Jason who got himself injured (blame the distraction), but her attempts to help him were dismissed in harsh words and by pushing her away. Just to protect himself from doing or saying something stupid he might regret.

“I don’t fucking need your help!’ he hissed, watching her gaze sadden and her whole body to cringe. “I can handle my own shit! Just... get the hell away from me!”

Without a second of hesitation he rushed out the batcave, followed with his family’s eyes.

“What is wrong with him?” Damian scoffed

“I might have an idea....” Tim muttered

“Tell me.” Y/N cut Drake off. “Tell me what this is about Tim. I can’t handle him being so .... hurt. I don’t want him to feel like he’s alone and no one understand him....”

“It’s really not my place...”

“TIMOTHY DRAKE!”

“Stop attacking me! God! How can you look so innocent and act so scary at the same time? “

“I swear if you don’t start talking....” she warned with the most stern voice she could produce

“Just..... I think you should talk to Todd yourself, Y/N.”

“Fine.” The girl shook her head. She was going to clear this shit out.

***

“Jace? May i come in?” the gentle knock on his bedroom door got him by surprise and when she entered, without waiting for the invitation he was sitting shirtless on his bed, trying to stitch the wound and holding an ice pack to his bruised ribs. Once her gaze landed on all of the injuries, he flinched, almost trying to hide himself.

“Go away....” his voice was far more begging and pleading than commanding and strong. He didn’t want her to see him like this. All of a sudden he realised that she would never feel for him the same way she felt for Dick. That with his scarred body and anger issues he never stood a chance.

“Jason.” She never listened and this time was no exception “Come on, stop it. It’s not the first time I will help you get yourself together. I’ve seen all those scars before. It’s all right. Safe place, no judgement. Let me.” Her soft hand reached for the needle and surgical thread and slowly, methodically, trying to cause him as little pain as possible started to stich his wounds. “You’ve been acting strange lately.....” the girl pointed out.

“not much more than usually.” He muttered “I am one hell of a strange person. Dead yet alive.”

“Stop it.” She cut him off, finishing the stitching and putting hand on his arm making him flinch again. “Sorry....” his action stung her. “Sorry, I am out of line, I won’t force you to speak to me if you don’t want. I never should have.....” she moved away, but never managed to get far as his arms wrapped around her pulling her close and his lips met hers. He just couldn’t hold himself anymore. Not once he felt her touch and care. It was just impossible. She started the fire that no one could contain.

At first he was afraid she would push him away, ready for it even, since after all she had a boyfriend. But much to his surprise and joy, she did no such thing. If anything she kissed him back.

She kissed him back.

Could she.... could she possibly want him?

Jason was not going to wonder about it, instead focusing on satiating his hunger of her. He was starved of her, his mouth brushing over hers with desire, passion, wanting more and more and more. He was completely lost in the moment as he lifted her up, bringing her to his lap, hands sneaking under her shirt, travelling up, up to her shoulder blades, brushing over the clasp of her bra, palms pressing into her back, pulling her closer, closer.

It was so good, so perfect, having her like this, not fighting, not pushing away, but making her melt into him, feeling her body flex, touch him back, mirroring all his actions.

She was the only one for him. The only one he could ever trust, love, care about. He would burn the whole world for her if she ever got hurt. He completely lost his mind for her.

Her,

Her.

The things were getting so heated so fast, when he switched positions gently lowering her down onto the mattress. Shit. She was so beautiful and touch starved and abandoned by Grayson. And Jason was going to show her what it really meant to love a woman.

“Y/N....” he muttered hovering over her, completely blinded by desire, grabbing her wrist gently and pinning them above her head, kissing her jaw, neck, everywhere he could reach. “Y/N.” he nibbled on her collarbone getting a single, breathy moan, getting so hard for her. To tell the whole truth, he almost felt like crying when her hand tangled in his mop of hair, pressing him closer to her body. He never felt so wanted and needed in his whole life and her action got him completely lost. She accepted him. She agreed to everything he was doing to her, simply following his lead and he just wanted to make her feel so good. He whimpered once the warmth of her affection spread inside his chest and belly, right hand slowly peeling her shirt off, exposing her soft skin to him.

God! He had her. He finally had her.

He was lovesick, his own body acting without any control. He just wanted her to want him, need him, touch him and hold him. But it also made him bold. And reckless.

“You’re so beautiful…..”he whispered, trailing kissed up her stomach and between her breast, making her arch her back and squirm in pleasure. “I love you…..”

“You what?” those words were like a bucket of cold water for her, eyes opening wide as she became aware in a second. “Oh, shit, no, shit, fuck!” the girl hissed, taking him by surprise and breaking free from his grip pushing him away and adjusting her messy look.

“Baby?” he whimpered, confused and hurt

“You cannot love me, we… we can’t do this Jason.”

“But…..”

“I’m in love with your brother!”

“He doesn’t deserve you! He does not take care of you!”

“And what do you know about it? He loves me, Jason. And despite of what you say, he does care. Every fucking day. Even when he’s busy! You’re judging my relationship with him of silly little piece of information, but you don’t know shit about it!”

“So why did you let me kiss you?” he stuttered looking straight into her eyes.

“It was a mistake.” She said coldly, hating herself. She despised herself for those words, but what else was there to do. She couldn’t do this to Dick. She couldn’t do it to Jace. And most importantly, she couldn’t do it to herself. She might as well put a gun to their heads and pull the trigger. No matter what she would do, someone would end up getting hurt. Badly. And she would end up being the unfaithful one. Not fair. She had to cut it right now, even if her body kept screaming at her to let go and let Jason love her. He was so gentle and loving and slow and sensual. Showing that part of him she never knew. So different than his brother when it came to intimacy….. Fuck!

“How…. How was it a mistake?” he was practically shaking at the moment. He bared his soul to her, hoping she was the one to trust, to take care of his poor, shattered heart. And the look in his eyes almost made her cry as well. But she had to be strong.

“We’re just friends, Jason.” She sighed, barely holding herself “nothing more. There won’t ever be anything more between us” she stood up from the bed.

“Please…..” he begged, grabbing her hand “please, don’t go. Stay with me. Let me…..”

“I’m sorry, Jace. I think we should just forget about what happened.” She yanked herself free and rushed out the door not looking back at him.

“I could never forget. And I won’t stop fighting for you.”

***

She was very well aware that his words were true. That Jason wouldn’t stop. But Y/N also knew that Dick wouldn’t ever relent. It seemed like she got herself in some serious trouble by loving two brothers, each one with different kind of love.

Dick and Jason.

Jason and Dick.

Fuck. Someone was going to end up broken hearted and she just couldn’t choose.

Therefore, she did the only thing that came to her mind.

***

“Hey, do you have Y/N somewhere around? I can’t reach her phone and she’s not responding my texts…..” very disturbed Dick showed up on the other side of the computer screen, reaching Tim.

“Dick…..”

“Is she all right? What happened Tim?”

“She left.”

“What?! What do you mean left?! How could she leave the house full of batman crew?! How could no one notice?!”

“She left you a letter.”

“A letter!? Shit, I deserve better. I’m going to find her! I’m getting back to Gotham right the second and I won’t stop until I search every inch of this city, country or planet!”

“Dick!” Tim yelled interrupting his brother’s monologue

“Why did she leave….?” Grayson’s voice broke. “I thought she loved me…..”

“She did, Dick. She wrote it on the envelope…..”

“I will hear it from her. Come on, Timmy, help me here.”

“Dick….”

“Yes?” Dick looked straight into Tim;s eyes in the camera and he froze. Something was wrong, terribly wrong and his younger brother’s face was screaming bad news “what are you not telling me, Tim?”

“There’s been a car accident and …..”

“NO!!” sudden scream came from behind and both Dick and Tim saw Jason falling to his knees onto the floor, clutching his head desperately, acting completely out of his mind “No,no,no,no,no.” he sobbed. “no….. this is all my fault, this is all because of me…..”

“No.” Dick became pale, sudden realisation of what Tim meant finding a way to his brain.

***

She wanted to be fair to both of them. That was why she left not one, but two letters, explaining why she couldn’t stay and destroy whatever frail relationship Dick and Jace managed to build. She also asked them not to look for her and in a haze, unnoticed, left the manor, planning to stay with her friends in Central City.

What she didn’t expect was that truck, speeding and running into the crossroad on the red light…..

And then,

breaks sqealing

glass breaking

darkness.

#jason todd x reader #red hood x reader #jason todd angst #red hood angst #dick grayson x reader #nightwing x reader #nightwing angst #dick grayson angst #dc angst #hurt no comfort #jason todd x y/n #dick grayson x y/n

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sprite-writes · 9 months ago

Text

gunmetal blue

chapter 1/?

Dale Cooper/Reader

Summary: Agent Cooper is saddled with a new partner–against his better judgment. She’s a mess–aimlessly stumbling her way through the FBI with a past shrouded in mystery. Grappling with this change, and a puzzling case in a small town, Cooper’s lost. He finds the path forward in the last way he’d expect.

word count: 2,605

A/N: woah new fic! this is sort of my side project while I work on cloudy day, but it'll still have semi-regular updates! super self indulgent because I love twin peaks, even if everyone had moved on LOL. hope u enjoy <3 as with all my writing, special thanks to @lightning-writes

Dale wasn’t the type to be needlessly anxious. He was the farthest thing from an overthinker, he was a pragmatic man, he kept his sensibility about him. So, admittedly, it was out of character the way his leg had started to involuntarily bounce, brow sweat, and chest tighten. Gordan Cole’s office had never felt so small.

He should have known something was wrong with the way Gordan had called him into his office, hands clapping on his shoulders, guiding him into the room like a lost child. Now, with the announcement hanging in the air, he understood.

“I’m sorry, a-a new partner?”

“That’s what I said, Coop! Is your hearing going too?” Gordon’s deafening volume usually has no effect on him, but this time he flinches. Dale shifts, and the leather beneath him squeaks. Gordon doesn’t even look up from his computer, skillfully avoiding Dale’s appalled stare.

“Gordon, with all due respect, I don't need nor want a partner. Has there been something unsatisfactory about my work? Or-”

“Did you say something about a factory? Anyway, It's not up to me. She was sent here straight from the higher-ups. All I did was sign the paperwork.”

Dale sighs, his frustration thickening in his chest. His captain's eyes flick to him.

“I would’ve fought it if I thought it was such a bad idea, Coop. Don’t worry so much, She’s a sweet girl and a—how would you say it? A damn fine agent.”

“Isn’t there anyone else she could be assigned to?” he asks, and it feels like begging. Windom is 3 years behind him now, but that's three years he’s spent adapting to solitude. The idea of someone next to him on the field again unsettles him deeply, drudging up feelings he’s worked hard to forget.

“Agent, I know how you may feel about this. What, with your past and all, but keep an open mind. I think this could be good for you.”

Could be good?

“Sir–”

A knock on the door cuts him off, the frosted glass door swinging open without hesitation. The interruption leaves him with his complaints still sticking to his tongue.

“Gordon! I brought you coffee – you still take it with two sugars, right? Because there’s a cane’s worth in there.”

His vision is crowded by a woman in an oversized blue FBI jacket—besides her abrupt entry, she’s also out of uniform. Her denim blue jeans hug her waist and fray at the knees, with a jarringly casual t-shirt. The unprofessionalism rubs him the wrong way.

Two milky-colored coffee cups get dropped on the desk. Despite the breach of protocol, Gordon seems pleased to see her. There’s an affinity in his eyes, but she's a stranger to Dale.

“Well if it isn’t Miss Blue herself! We were just talking about you.”

“We?”

Her hair flicks over her shoulder, and her eyes widen.

“Oh! Hi! Sorry, I didn’t see you there. I’m Blue.” She sticks out her right hand for him to shake– and it knocks straight into the two coffee cups, sending one tumbling towards Gordan and the other into his lap.

“Shit!”

He bolts up as hot coffee soaks his trousers. He vaguely registers Gordon's laugh as if an Agent didn’t just waltz in, wreck his office, and Dale’s drycleaning.

“Oh hell, I’m so sorry!” she shrills, peeling off her jacket frantically. The cheap polyester of the academy-issued zip-up presses against his wool-blend pants, the woman’s feeble attempt to clean the mess.

Dale’s anger alights, but he breathes deeply to tamp it down. Patience is a virtue, he tells himself.

She continues to dab at his pants, he pushes her hands away, taking the stained jacket from her, and tossing it on the chair behind him.

“It's fine, it’s fine,” he tells her tightly, despite the heat of his emotions, and the mild burns. When it rains, it pours, he supposes.

She looks up at him, clearly mortified.

“My bad, Sir,” she says lamely, and her expression scrunches up more.

“A hand, Kid?” Gordon asks and she’s more than happy to take her attention away from Dale. Gordon wipes his desk with a handkerchief, and with her hands free, she begins moving damp papers from his desk.

“Well, I’ll tell ya, Blue, you haven’t changed a bit since they shipped you off,” Gordon says fondly. Blue grimaces in a subtle way that Dale only notices because of the daggers he’s staring into her.

“I don't know about-” she begins. Gordon steamrolls her, likely not hearing a thing she said.

“Well, I suppose this is as good an introduction as any. Dale, meet your new partner, Special Agent Georgia Blue. Blue, meet Dale Cooper.”

He wanted to be surprised, really he did, but with fate’s track record, he didn't know why he would expect any better.

Dale goes home late that evening. With him, a stack of manilla folders all relating to one Georgia Blue. He recognizes a level of invasion here. He justifies it simply; Blue is an invasion of his space, so this grants him a degree of invasion to hers. He tries not to think about the morality of it too much, mostly because he knows if he does, he’ll be returning the files unopened. He lets his curiosity win this battle.

It doesn’t matter anyways; half the documents are redacted, large blocky sharpie lines interrupting every other sentence. He skims over what he deems unimportant– her physical description, age, schooling– when one thing catches his eye. Her bureau status, ambiguously labeled as ‘probationary warning: under review’

The FBI files aren’t all. There are DEA reports, too, all titled Operation Architect. He whispers the words to himself, something familiar in the back of his mind, vague memories and mentions of this Operation Architect. From his understanding, it had been DEA business, just watercooler talk that had made its way down to his office. He reads what he can.

January 10th 1988, SA Georgia Blue establishes contact with target, indefinite undercover placement to begin immediately.

Undercover placement? The rest of the paragraph is blocked out, and he’s left with more questions than answers.

His day feels like a pill he can’t swallow. He had vainly hoped that by understanding who this woman was, it would give him some artificial control of the situation, maybe even make it easier to choke down. He doesn’t understand why the dread in his chest continues to bloom.

He yawns, interrupting his thoughts. He supposes the rest of his investigation can wait for the morning, it wasn’t like the issue was going away anyways.

There are a few blissful moments the next morning when Dale wakes up, where the nightmare of yesterday is just that - a nightmare. The redacted files are forgotten on his desk. He makes his bed and brushes his teeth, and it isn't until he’s halfway through shampooing his hair, while he’s mentally scaling down his to-do list for the day that he remembers his plans are meaningless compared to the derailment that is Agent Blue. That is, his new partner Agent Blue. Just rolling over the word in his mind causes a headache to bud.

“Agents Cooper and Blue, partners, at your service,” he spits bitterly to himself. He gets shampoo in his mouth.

He’s bitter all the way to the station, questions and resentment swarming his mind.

He doesn’t even bother to chirp his usual good mornings to the doorman. Anger fits him like a jacket two sizes too small, he has to squeeze his way into it.

Perhaps the comfort of familiarity would calm him, he thought. A warm cup of coffee and the sanctuary of his desk. That’s what he needed.

“Good morning Dale,” Diane calls as he passes reception. He waves noncommittally.

“Morning Diane, any messages?”

“Not today, but Gordon wants to talk to you—he said to just come by when you have time.”

Dale sighs, and wonders what Gordon could possibly have in store for him this time.

“Is that all?”

“There’s just one other thing—I had to move your desk closer to the window to make room for the new girl – but don’t worry! I put everything back just as it was, and I was real careful too,” she smiles.

His eye twitches.

“Alright, Diane, thanks,” he mutters.

His desk is a foot from the window now, approximately 3 feet from where he had it before. He recalls the day he requested it to be there—having carefully stood in each corner of the precinct to find the exact shade-to-light ratio to situate himself.

It’s fine, he reasons, he’ll just squint.

In the ideal 4-foot spot from the window sits a brand new desk, with his brand new partner. If she hears him approach, she doesn’t show it, eyes glued to her dark computer screen. It doesn’t bother him, not one bit. He had spent the last three years' worth of mornings enjoying his coffee in silence, and, new partner or not, he would like that to remain the same. Who cares if she ruined his wool pants–doesn’t mean she has to say good morning to him too.

He sits down, much too close to the sun for his liking, and dives headfirst into paperwork. Still, he spares glances at her, in intervals, and mostly just wonders, why? Dale is a good agent, he knows this. His work and reputation precede him; a lone wolf, he thinks of himself. Then, out of nowhere, without warning, he’s saddled with a partner? An agent he’s never even heard of, who is apparently dipping half into DEA work. An agent who’s on probationary warning.

Perhaps they want him to babysit, he concludes. A rookie agent with some kind of classified disciplinary infraction, and they want him to turn her around. The thought reheats his anger. He’s a federal agent, not an academy trainer, and he has half a mind to let Gordon know that fact.

Five minutes into tense silence and deep thought, a hand smacks down on his desk. He startles but recovers smoothly.

“For yesterday,” Blue says tersely. His eyes follow her stony expression to her manicured hand. She moves and reveals a crumbled $50 bill she’d slapped on his desk.

“Agent?” he asks, confused and exasperated.

“For the pants, alright? Please, just take it.”

He stares at the bill quizzically.

“Ma’am, while I can appreciate the gesture, I assure you that it’s not necessary—“

She holds her hand up to stop him.

“I don’t care. I’m not taking the money back.”

She returns to her desk, intentionally angling away from him, staring intently at the computer screen that he can now see isn’t even turned on.

“...The power button’s on the back of the monitor.”

“...right.”

The computer screen comes to life, and she doesn't spare him a glance.

Partners, indeed.

When he finally has a moment to see Gordon, he’s gone over his speech 5 times in his head. Gordon, you know I respect you and your decision-making, but I am not a babysitter or some sort of camp counselor. I am formally requesting the reassignment of Agent Blue.

He says it again and again in his head, all the way to the door. He knocks loudly, in a way he knows Gordon will hear, and he gets back a muffled, “Come in!”

He does. When Gordon catches his eye, his expression is uncharacteristically unreadable.

“Close the door behind you, Coop,” he tells him. Dale shuts the door and takes his usual seat across from his boss.

“I’m glad you had the time to talk, I’m sure you have more than a few questions after yesterday,” he says levelly. Dale notes Gordon talking quieter than normal, it gives him an odd feeling like he’s in trouble.

“I do, Sir. I would like to firstly say that while I respect–”

“Now hang on there, Coop. First things first, I’m going to need you to return those files on Blue.”

Dale freezes, and his puffed-out chest deflates. It takes him a moment to form a sentence again.

“...May I ask why, Sir?”

Gordon sighs and fiddles with the wires of his hearing aid.

“You haven’t done anything wrong. This is all just a bit more complicated than I can tell you right now. I’m afraid I’m sort of left in the dark here, too. I’ll tell you what I can, but it’s not all that much. Anything else you learn is at the discretion of the bureau - and Blue. And I don't think either of em’ wants you poking around.”

The situation feels much bigger than him all of a sudden, even though it felt like something he could hold in the palm of his hand just a moment ago.

“Alright,” is all he can think to say.

“I knew Blue when she was in the academy, and let me tell you, she is bright. A little prodigy in her class, a bit like you, I’d presume. Anyway, I met her through her field training, she was a NAT here for a little while. Wasn’t too interested in homicide investigation, though. No, she’d taken a real liking to narcotics. Nasty business, I always thought, but to each their own,”

As he talks, he leans in close to Dale. Gordon’s inside voice is still quite loud, but Dale can tell he’s straining to lower it.

“She graduated and went straight to doing investigative work with the DEA. If I know you, and I do, I know you’ve picked through her file already. Do you know what Operation Architect is?”

“I saw the name, but I don't know much about it, no.”

“Neither do I, that’s DEA business, but I know she was on it, undercover for over a year. And I know it didn't go great. She was relocated here after the ordeal.”

Dale was hoping for this conversation to be more enlightening. He still feels trapped in the dark.

“I meant it when I said none of this was up to me. My boss wanted Blue assigned to you. I’d wager it's because of your good work, you’ve got a handsome reputation, but I couldn’t tell you for sure. Regardless, she's sticking around for a while, so make the best of it. She’s not quite how I remember her, but as long as she hasn't done a full 180 in a few years, I think you two could get along pretty well.”

Silence weighs down the room. Dale lets the new knowledge permeate his skin.

“Alright,” he says because there really isn’t anything else to say.

“Alright,” Gordon parrots.

Dale sits like he’s waiting for something else to happen. The crushing finality of it sits on his chest. All the determination he came in there with is withered away to nothing, just ashes of a once burning fire.

There’s no shirking this now, he has a partner. Cooper & Blue, FBI.

“I know this isn’t easy for you, and I wish there was more I could do. But to be completely candid with you, I don’t think it’ll be nearly as bad as you’re anticipating.”

Dale nods absently, drained of anything else to say. Gordon understands.

“You’re dismissed, Coop.”

He gets up, politely pushing in the chair.

Before his hand can touch the knob, Gordon grabs his attention again.

“Well, one more thing, actually.” Dale tenses, and the dread in his chest that had gone numb begins to flare up again.

“If I were you, I’d show her a bit of kindness. This line of work is messy, and I can't imagine what the hell happened for her to get sent here.”

Dale can’t imagine either.

#twin peaks #dale cooper x reader #dale cooper #twin peaks: the return #gordon cole #harry truman #laura palmer #yay chapter one!

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lily-radiance · 9 months ago

Text

Picture Perfect Psychopath

Doctor Jonathan Crane/ fem reader.

3.9k words

(So far, this is just a drabble, but I do have an idea of where this story could go. I've been watching The Dark Knight trilogy and got inspired. Reader works at Arkham Asylum as a psychiatrist, sharing the field of study with Scarecrow and old flame Harley Quinn. Likely not canon-compliant. Kinda merged various movies since I'm no comic book expert.)

Arkham Asylum is a cesspool of depraved criminals, as it has been for the past few years. Typical people who are suffering from mental illnesses and were sent away without care were obvious. This institution was the cheapest and easiest way to lock up the sick, even before the creation of the vigilantes. Everyone in Gotham City knew to keep their eyes on the ground and act as if crimes were invisible. If you cause a fuss in any shape or form, don't be surprised if you get dragged away in a body bag. You hated the mere thought of disregarding the pain of the city, but what could you do if no one would listen? Criminals, no matter the type, always have a story to tell.

“Bruce, the next time you interrupt my work for a house call, I'm stealing your Batmobile!”

You've been sitting in Wayne Manor for the past two hours, all because your friend wanted to “check-in” on the status of the newest patients. On any other day, you might have given him leniency, but he's been siphoning you for information without a decent break. Now, you not only have to write and submit a few dozen reports before sunset, all while juggling Bruce Wayne. The billionaire rolls his eyes but smiles, enjoying a day where he can loosen up and act as a person instead of a shadow.

“Nice try, but the garage is foolproof. I learned my lesson when you took my ride for a spin last year.”

You sip the cola in your hand, amused at the memory of speeding around the house and getting the vehicle caked in dirt. You apologized to Alfred when realizing the butler had to clean it afterward.

“Too bad, I was hoping to test the maximum speed,” you said with a chuckle, “I'm kidding, of course.”

“Sometimes, I worry about your coworkers. Do they know how much damage you can cause when bored?”

You glare at him from the couch. Work was something you liked to keep separate from life; he knew that very well. After all, if someone identified Batman successfully, then Wayne Enterprises would crumble in on itself.

“Do you know how much damage you cause when I'm not around to cover your tracks? Honestly, you may give Alfred a heart attack.”

The butler frowns at your humor before taking your empty glass. You notice the lipstick mark left over, reminding yourself to reapply the makeup. Psychiatric professionals do their best to look formal, and this habit has followed them since college. When you consider the many polished individuals at the facility, one is always at the forefront of your mind: Doctor Jonathan Crane. No matter the time of day, his appearance is that of near perfection, or you like to think so. Today, you have a briefing with him, and the idea has prompted you to dress to impress; the shade of cherry red on your lips is a testament to that.

“I'm always careful, (Y/N). I have Gordon, Alfred, and Lucius for that very purpose. You know Arkham is filled with lunatics and, more specifically, the worst villains.”

“We've had this conversation before, Bruce. I'm good at my job, and the people you lock up are kept in the deepest parts. Plus, I always hear exciting stories, which makes time fly by!”

He gives you a stern glance, not happy with your unbothered attitude. You drop the smile and sigh.

“I know you think I can't handle myself in that place. You get up close and personal with villains more often than I do. Every floor has a ton of security guards, not to mention cameras and passcodes in each room!”

Eventually, he gives up the protective demeanor. If you needed his help, he was the first in line. If not, he would be prepared for the future.

“Right, I know you're responsible and cautious, (Y/N). It's still the institution with the most significant number of patients in Gotham, so I want you to stay alert. Tim and the others are patrolling tonight if you run into trouble. Remember, the GCPD is conducting investigations on a possible new perpetrator.”

You nod to his speech, tapping your heels underneath the coffee table. He is about to give you another piece of information, but the sound of the front door opening and hurried footsteps is your cue to leave. Barbara Gordon, Tim Drake, and Jason Todd enter the room, waving a synchronous greeting in your direction. Your phone beeps in your jacket pocket, and you fumble the device when the caller is listed. Barbara notices your excitement and chuckles, watching as you answer the phone.

“Hello, this is (Y/N) (L/N); how may I help?”

“It's Dr. Crane, as you probably knew judging by how quickly you answered. The administration got caught up in other matters, so it's just you and me. Don't be late.”

The voice catches you off guard, your heart beating too quickly regarding the abrupt message. You lose your ability to speak, and like everything else, he's already caught a glimpse of it.

“Doctor—what about the meeting on security clearances? We still have much to discuss with the board; isn't this important?”

“I've already taken care of most of the concerns. Currently, my priority is talking to you about your individual endeavors regarding Arkham. Do you have an issue with this?”

As he asks, you know he's not looking for an honest answer. You swallow your pride, although tempting to draw on this further.

“No, Doctor. I'm on my way right now.”

“Good, I have high hopes you'll be fascinated by my newest work.”

You have nothing else to add as he hangs up, an annoying habit you wish didn't leave you bitter. Barbara steps over, raising a brow in examination. Your behavior, coupled with the alluring cosmetics on your face, indicates an attention to detail made to attract. The young woman tilts her head, examining your efforts, and pauses. She prevents your curiosity by grabbing a maroon scarf hung on the hat rack and placing it on your neck. As she wraps the fabric loosely around your collar, she discreetly whispers, “In case whoever you see leaves a mark or can't keep you warm. It also matches your lipstick.”

The redhead winks at you, knowing that finding worthwhile men in Gotham is a rare treat. If only you knew who you were falling for, maybe someone else could have turned your head. The likelihood of your coworker getting obsessed with another pretty face was nonexistent, especially when he knew every method of pushing your buttons.

Gotham weather stands to be frigid regardless of the season, and the cold water on your cheeks proves it. Hurriedly, you head to your car, jumping in the driver's seat and turning the hot air on. You flip the sun visor down, using the compartment mirror to double-check your appearance. You smile, wink, and perform other expressions to understand if this is too much. It's not like you dressed yourself in fancy attire, but the makeup sensation tells you this is different—the scarf clings to your shoulders, adding an extra layer of comfort.

The City appears as dreary as ever, with gray clouds looming over the skyscrapers. You knew this landscape was not as picturesque as the Bahamas, but it was familiar. In this place, you felt like a necessary presence, that your actions were genuinely helping people live. Others complain that they think soulless thoughts and have no purpose in a city of thugs, but they don't see the possibilities. No, you appreciated the constant ebb and flow pattern because it meant everything was up to chance. Unlike Harvey Dent, you had no interest in flipping a coin to decide your fate; if you wanted something and could achieve it, why worry about the downfall? Bruce told you to avoid trouble, and maybe if you tried harder, you could, but curiosity always took control. The night turned Gotham into a place of both dreams and nightmares. When the streets glow amber and the windows shine with the moon, the law is subject to change.

Rain slams against the windshield, the downpour forcing you to drive at a snail’s pace. Common sense doesn't stop other drivers from taking risky turns; some cars cut in front despite your right of way. You honk your horn at the reckless speeding, internally regretting this venture. At least twenty minutes have passed since you left, and yet you're still running late. Luckily, most security guards let you pass immediately, while one or two demand identification. If you weren't so anxious, you would see the multiple faults that made Arkham’s reputation. People were lazy, some slacking without a care. Others were too busy dealing with life changes to support this institution.

The repetitive sound of your heels clicking on the tile floor draws someone's attention. Unfortunately, you can barely avoid this girl regularly, so it makes sense that she would be another obstacle.

“Woah, pudding, you getting ready for the runway or something? I haven't seen you wear red in a long time. It makes a girl wonder, what's the occasion?”

Harleen Quinzel stands in her cell, dressed in a jumpsuit that does her no justice. Her usually dyed hair is unkempt and faded, now a dirty blonde with pigment spots. Despite her living situation, her personality is still bubbly. She holds a bent cigarette and takes a drag, then tosses the leftovers underneath her boots. The woman approaches the metal bars, wrapping her hands around two and leaning through the gap. A stream of smoke is exhaled into your face, the delinquent playfully puckering her lips.

“I have a critical meeting with Dr. Crane, and it was supposed to be with the rest of the board until something got in the way. I'm running late, and if I don't get to that office in time—”

Harley raises her index finger, pressing against your lips to stop your words.

“That does sound like a pretty jumbo deal, dollface! From one doctor to another, rescheduling an administrative meeting is unnecessarily convoluted!”

She moves her hand to cup your jaw, tilting your face in multiple angles to glimpse your handiwork. A smile spreads across her lips, her tongue licking the front of her teeth. It makes you nervous, and she knows it.

“I mean, he said he ‘took care of it,’ but I don't know if that necessarily means it was rescheduled. The board could have discussed several possibilities, so I can't guarantee anything.”

You don't know what she's trying to prove.

“Something tells me your lover boy isn't inviting you for a simple coffee. No, with a mind as unpredictable as his, I bet you'll leave here with more than a headache. That is, if you leave at all, dollface.”

Her voice digs further into your mind, higher-pitched as she giggles to herself. You adjust the scarf to distract yourself, but she won't let this topic rest.

“Harley, as much as I appreciate what I assume is a concern, I know what I'm doing.”

“Sure you do, pudding. You think he's all sweet and charming, right? Doctor Jonathan Crane, who wears a nice suit and never gets his hands dirty? He probably compliments your work and swears to get back to your questions. I'll even bet he holds your hand a little too long when he shakes it, and you don't say anything because you want his hand on yours.”

She sees the blush rising to your cheeks and continues to torment you. You can't breathe clearly, not when your lungs burn like this.

“Oh, I bet you want him to do all sorts of things to you. When he holds your hand, do you imagine it somewhere else on your body? Do you think he'll have you by the waist while his other hand traces your neck? Will he squeeze your throat and bruise the pretty skin, rubbing his tongue up and down? Will you let him devour you as I did? I bet you'll have his handprints on your thighs for weeks, the dirty little secret that you keep to yourself?”

She plays with the ends of your hair, curling the strands around her fingers. You haven't been this close to her in years, and your proximity reminds you why. Getting close to villains is a quick path to insanity. You step away from the cell, regaining your focus. A pair of footsteps echo down the stairwell, slow and precise. When you turn, your coworker is impatiently waiting, a scowl etched onto his features as he stares between you and Harley Quinn. The blonde enthusiastically waves at him, earning a glare.

“Come along; we have lots to discuss and little time to waste. I thought I clarified that I wanted you in my office five minutes ago.”

You follow his figure, a knot in your stomach at his unusual mood. The doctor could be a pain when it came to protocols, but you two got along reasonably well. He gave you criteria to follow, and more often than not, he liked to debate your findings. You hoped this was a quick conversation, but then it didn't make sense that he instructed you to take a ferry for something he could have said on the phone.

“Yes, I had to drive through the rain and rush in traffic. I wasn't counting on the weather to be so awful or for Harley Quinn to pull me aside.”

He waits by the top of the stairwell for you, watching as your heels tap the concrete. It amazed him: the concept of walking on elevated stilts that could snap like a twig. You don't miss how he scans your legs or how the muscles in your calves tighten. He extends a hand, presenting the cordiality that made you admire him in the first place. You hesitate with trembling fingers, muttering a quiet “thanks” as he holds your palm. He's warm, and it gives you too much satisfaction. Instead of letting go, he merely continues walking, carefully trailing his fingers over your radial pulse. Each thrum of your heartbeat is now in his possession of knowledge, tipping him off on your anxiety. The door to his office is down a corridor, only accessible to visitors and himself.

“Had you considered wearing gloves, Doctor? You might want to invest in case the temperature drops. If you can't use your hands, I suppose the mind is sufficient, but exhausting yourself unnecessarily is no good to anyone.”

You sit in one of the two chairs, removing your scarf and placing it in your lap. Crane takes his place behind the desk and falls into the chair, folding his hands on the flat surface.

“Believe me, if I could grab a few extra layers, I would have. I was visiting a friend when you called, and since you requested I hurry, there was no point in going home to change. I've lived in Gotham for a long time, and a storm isn't enough to stop me from doing my job. Anyway, you said there was something you needed me to examine?”

He slides a manilla folder towards you, numerous papers spilling from the seam. You take the hint to inspect the documents, flipping through the pages and absorbing the content. MRI scans, coupled with test results and psychological jargon, cover the sheets. You wrinkle your nose in focus, recognizing the highlighted areas of the brain as the amygdala and the frontal lobe. The human brain structure separates information based on its importance, using the amygdala for the fear response and the frontal lobe for rational thought. If one of these locations is compromised, whether by neural chemicals or injuries, the body cannot regulate its reactions to stressful environments. You continue reading, wholly fascinated by the hypotheses listed. The last few pages are still being worked on, primarily blank except for messily written notes. While your train of thought is still understandable, you remove a pen from your coat pocket and begin scribbling. He stares in amusement, pride blooming at your coinciding wonder.

“Doctor Crane, this is beyond incredible! If you were to develop this drug, who knows what group might want it? Not to mention the possibility of designing a formula with the opposite goal of annihilating fear entirely!”

He doesn't bother to hide the smirk on his face as you supply him an ego boost. Initially, he worried you would have an adverse reaction given your good-natured spirit, but those doubts were put to rest by the sight of your smile. The longer he allows himself to relax, the more his eyes are drawn to your lips. Red was a beautiful color on you, contrasting the dim aura of this hospital. As you revel in this energized state, you do not anticipate the foreign sensation of his mouth against yours. Recognition dawns on you as the scent of his cologne lingers, and the papers fall to the ground. You cautiously lean into his touch, grasping his shoulders to bring him closer. The fabric of his shirt bunches as you dig your fingers into the material. He has no qualms with your proximity, but he recognizes the trepidation in your movements for what it is: the worry that you'll scare him away. It's ironic, and it tells him that the only way to disprove your doubt is to make sure you know that this encounter isn't based on the heat of the moment.

He kisses you harder, pushing his tongue inside your mouth. You gasp in surprise, allowing him additional access, as well as the ability to overpower you. Never had you thought that the absurd fantasy of him kissing you would come to fruition, and certainly not in his office over research data. This was supposed to be a dull day of filing paperwork and overhearing business, not the instance where your co-worker, technically your boss, would be sharing saliva. His lips travel to your cheek, then your jaw, trailing down your neck. He has to remove the scarf and unbutton your collar to reach the desired location. You tilt your head back, moaning as he grows closer to your carotid vein. Similar to your earlier encounter, he locates your pulse, biting and sucking the skin as your heart rate increases. You admittedly have no idea what you're doing, but you do know that the image of him making out with you is extremely hot.

Yet, rational is a demon that you cannot leave behind. You're a scientist through and through, which means taking time to analyze the effects of this situation is necessary. Gently, you press against his chest, halting his actions and putting space between you. He looks down at you quizzically, adjusting his glasses that had fallen from the bridge of his nose.

“We could keep going with this course of action, not that I would complain, but maybe we should consider what we're getting ourselves into. I mean, we work together, and if we pursue a relationship, that could cause an entire slew of issues. Let’s cool our jets and think about this objectively before getting too deep.”

You feel a new weight on your chest as you try to analyze his expression. Most days, you could guess his emotions based on small talk, if he even spoke to you. Unfortunately, he's again acting like a blank slate, unreadable as the silence grows longer. Somehow, this enigma of a human specimen has become a magnetic field, drawing you in despite your better judgment. It's not that you don't want to see where this night goes, but the idea of committing to him, especially in the workplace, sends a chill down your spine.

“I see what you are getting at, (Y/N). It's not a problem if you want to think this over. Honestly, I prefer my opinion, but I see no fault in mulling it over. We wouldn't be scientists if we didn't leave decisions up to logic, would we?”

He seems calm enough, and that takes some of the pressure off. You breathe out a sigh before stretching your neck, still a bit unsure of what to do. Another beat of awkward silence follows before you work up enough courage to face him. Blue eyes catch your thousand-yard stare and dart back to the ground.

“It's getting late. D-do you need anything else from me, Jonathan?”

He is not expecting you to refer to him by his first name despite the circumstances. The sound of your hesitancy is still cute, and he wasn't expecting his name to sound so good on your tongue.

“No, I have everything I need. Do you want me to drive you home? The weather is still raining cats and dogs. Not only that, but Gotham is dangerous already, and I wouldn't want you to get hurt.”

The offer seems adequate, and you know precisely the dangers lurking outside. If not for crime and insanity, you wouldn't have a job, but that doesn't mean you want to get caught up in legal shenanigans.

“I drove to the docking bay with my car, so assuming you drive, that would leave one of us without our respective vehicles…”

“You're partially correct. I take a taxi to get around town most of the time so that I won't abandon my car here. Then again, if I drove your car, I would still have to call a cab at one point or another.”

His analysis has you pondering the options until you decide to wing it. You've already made out with your boss, how much worse could it get?

“Screw it, I'll call you a taxi myself. If the weather gets too bad, you can stay at my place for the night.”

You pick up your scarf from the chair, throwing it around your neck in preparation for the cold air outside. The hallways are still empty, and for once, you're glad since the quiet gives you space to think. All that's left is to descend the stairs, pass security, and get the hell out of there. You place your hand in your pocket to grab your identification card but pause as your co-worker is two steps ahead of you, already swiping his badge across the checkpoint. That's right, he has a higher security clearance than you; no wonder he's always early to the office.

“There ya’ are pudding! How'd that meeting go—”

Harley Quinn wastes no time in asking questions as soon as she sees you approach. The doctor next to you gives her a scowl like last time, but the reason behind it is different. Before, he was irritated by her peppy attitude, and now it's jealousy. The blonde’s expression turns into a frown, but covers it with her usual distaste for nitpicky professionals. You would find their disagreement amusing if not for your fresh taste of humanity from the critical doctor, his shell still rough around the edges. You let your mind wander, barely recognizing the arm around your shoulder until you feel the support of his body against you.

These moments are the ones that make your heart race and your mind split. You know this guy, right? He has to be one of the good men in this rotten city. If not, what would you do anyway?

If you like this check the updating version on ao3: Click

#x reader #fanfiction #batman begins #dark knight #jonathan crane x reader #scarecrow x reader #drabble #cillian murphy #cillian murphy x reader

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drbatsponge · 7 months ago

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As many of you may not know at the time of writing this, May 18th, which was yesterday, is the day that marks Cassandra Cain's first appearance in DC Comics.

So, to celebrate 25 years of the character, I have decided to review each of Cassandra Cain's quote on quote "first appearance" comics.

Essentially these comics cover her origins and her first outing as Batgirl.

All of these comics take place during the No Man's Land event.

The comics in order are:

Batman #567

Detective Comics #734

Legends of the Dark Knight #120

Batman #569

Due to Tumblr's image limit you'll only be able to see images for part one of this review, for a review that has more images, please use this link to Amino here:

We'll start with Batman #567 and TEC #734 since both share Cassandra Cain's two-part origin story: Mark of Cain.

Cassandra Cain's origins are very unique in the sense that the character appears first before she ever even dawns the costume, as the costume is currently being worn by someone else, specifically Helena Bertinelli who does have a cameo appearance within this two part story as Batman can be seen confronting her at a cemetery at the beginning of part one.

Cassandra is later shown, and it's established that she's one of Barbara Gordon's couriers that deliver information and supplies throughout the post-earthquake rocked Gotham City, she brings Barbara an apple as a gift for teaching her how to pronounce words.

It's then shown Cass has trouble pronouncing the simplest of words, due to her father depriving her of speech during her developmental stage of life.

Speaking of Cassandra's father, David Cain, Cass eventually runs into him trying to assassinate Commissioner Gordon via sniper rifle, and prevents him from doing so by surprising him and blocking his field of view.

Part one ends with the two having a confrontation where Cassandra finally utters the phrase that Barbara was trying to teach her prior before pushing David out a window.

Throughout the story various little snippets of Cassandra's childhood are shown.

We can see that nothing was wholesome about her childhood, her upbringing was nothing short of cruel, her father having her kill a man at such a young age, which of course left a lasting impact on her.

Overall part one of this story does a very good job at introducing us to Cass and pulling at your heartstrings with her origin.

While part one doesn't have much dialogue, which is obviously intentional because of the character in this story, it has some stunning visuals from the artist Damion Scott and what few bits of speech we do get is enough to serve the story.

I would say Kelley Puckett hit it right out of the park with getting us invested in his at-the-time new character to the Bat Mythos. I would give part one a perfect 10/10.

Moving on to part two, we begin where the first part ended and we have Cass and David continuing to plummet from their dive through the window earlier. Luckily Batman catches David at least, but Cassandra decides to let go of her father last minute, however she still survives, Batman seemingly catching her and bringing her to a cemetery later on. Most likely the same cemetery that he had found Helena at prior.

There, Batman discerns that Cass never learned how to communicate properly and the only language she knows is violence, fighting.

Cassandra and Batman then have a dispute about who should go after David, Batman bringing up the fact he was hired by Two-Face to kill Gordon.

Batman says he can handle both David and Two-Face, but Cassandra disagrees.

Eventually the two go after both separately, Cass taking Two-Face and Batman taking David.

Cass successfully subdues Two-Face by what we later find out is her taking his coin.

Cass even makes it in time to help Batman with David.

The end of the story shows Barbara handing over an old photo of a Batgirl over to Cass, while Batman instructs her to call the other Bat-Family members.

Overall, part 2 is pretty good, I wouldn't say it's as great as the first part of this story, as it does decide to focus more on action instead of any actual fleshing out to Cassandra's backstory, but nonetheless it's still a solid conclusion to the previous story.

As a rating, I would give it a 9/10.

Now moving on to what you could call part three of Mark of Cain but isn't exactly labeled as such is Legends of the Dark Knight #120. I say COULD, because the story itself isn't exactly all that much connected to the prior parts other than beginning where part 2 ended, but it does further Cassandra's story nonetheless as this is the comic where she officially dawns the Batgirl suit. Before that though, she meets the entire Bat-Family, especially hitting it off with Jean Paul Valley, AKA Azrael.

Batman then has a chat with the previous owner of the Batgirl suit, Helena Bertinelli. Essentially Helena kind of has a meltdown before having a falling out with Batman, which I wouldn't say isn't exactly justified, it's implied Batman pushed her too far here and I don't necessarily blame her for wanting to distance herself. Regardless, Batman collects the suit from her and decides instead that it belongs to Cass.

This is not before she's given a lecture on honoring the symbol of the bat, of which Batman already trusts she'll honor, Nightwing on the other hand not being so sure. Oracle makes him second guess his opinions though and then Cass suits up, now Batgirl, and glides out with the Bat-Family into the city.

I'd give this story an 8/10, my only main problem being with it is the art, for some reason the artist here didn't study anatomy, giving Helena and Cass in this story weirdly skinny wastes. 💀 Nonetheless the artist isn't terrible in other areas.

Our final story, Batman #569, or as the official story is called: I Cover the Waterfront, covers Cassandra's first outing as Batgirl.

It starts out with Cass beating up a bunch of thugs who are trying to rob a gas station, for well, gas.

She quickly dispatches the thugs, the gas station owner, Jimmy Sanchez, inviting her into the station to celebrate.

Even trying to offer her a grape soda, but Cass declines as she much prefers to not hear Sanchez constantly ramble on about things, wanting quiet.

We then cut to what we can assume is a scene prior with Batman briefing Nightwing, Oracle, and Cass about a shortage of gas, which they need for generators to power their infirmary unit within the city they call M.A.S.H.

Cassandra is clever and knows where they might find some gas, suggesting there's some in Amusement Mile.

Batman agrees to let her go get the Cass, Barbara remarking how eager Cass is to please the Caped Crusader.

We can assume that Sanchez has the gas, as we cut back to him and Cass, Sanchez yet again going on another long ramble, talking about how the thugs who attacked him earlier used to be good kids.

Cass again, doesn't like the noise and leaves. Later finding out that the thugs have returned and their leader has a rocket launcher. Before Cass can intervene though, Sanchez comes out and threatens the thugs. Cass leaps into action to save Sanchez, fighting the thugs, but to no avail, eventually the leader regains his footing and blows up the gas station.

Cass, thinking she has failed, attempts to kill the gang leader, but is stopped by Sanchez going on another one of his rambles. She listens this time though, as the man reminds her not to give up so easily, so she lets the thug live.

Batman soon arrives and it's revealed that this whole thing was an elaborate distraction from the real stash of gasoline that Sanchez had hidden in a safe location, showing Cass that she hadn't failed at all.

I would say that this story is a decent first outing for Cassandra Cain as Batgirl, and reevaluates what her character is all about, someone who doesn't give up so easily, someone who isn't a killer. I would give this story another perfect 10/10.

Well, that's it, that's all the stories reviewed for my little anniversary special for Cass here.

Probably one of the longer blogs I've written if I'm completely honest. 😅

But as always stay tuned! Same bat-time, same bat-channel!

And Happy 25th Anniversary Cassandra Cain!

#cassandra cain #batgirl #dc comics

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mindblowingscience · 7 months ago

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Researchers in the emerging field of spatial computing have developed a prototype augmented reality headset that uses holographic imaging to overlay full-color, 3D moving images on the lenses of what would appear to be an ordinary pair of glasses. Unlike the bulky headsets of present-day augmented reality systems, the new approach delivers a visually satisfying 3D viewing experience in a compact, comfortable, and attractive form factor suitable for all-day wear. “Our headset appears to the outside world just like an everyday pair of glasses, but what the wearer sees through the lenses is an enriched world overlaid with vibrant, full-color 3D computed imagery,” said Gordon Wetzstein, an associate professor of electrical engineering and an expert in the fast-emerging field of spatial computing. Wetzstein and a team of engineers introduce their device in a new paper in the journal Nature.

#Science #Technology #Electrical Engineering #Spatial Computing #Holography #Augmented Reality #Virtual Reality #AI #Artifical Intelligence #Machine Learning #Stanford

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bitletsanddrabbles · 30 days ago

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[Fic] Lightshow

It's 6:56 am and I've just finished this, not even read it over once, but it got me over the 65k line, so I'm just going to put it up here and revise it later!

This will be another year that @alex51324 and the Island saved my output levels. XD

Worth noting: I have never actually seen the northern lights. Like most such phenomenon, "They'll be visible in your area!" inevitably means "On the other side of the famous, Seattle overcast!" The only time I know they were actually visible was this past October, and since I had to go to work the next day and figured it would be a standard "oops! Haha! Weather interference!" situation, I slept through it. These descriptions were written based entirely on about an hour's worth of reading "what seeing the northern lights in person" articles and watching similar videos. Bless the guy who included a still of "How it looks to the naked eye when it first starts up" in his vid.

“Why are we out here?” Gordon groused, pulling his coat around himself and pressing up against Thomas. It was damn cold, so Thomas didn’t particularly mind the extra heat.

“Because Mr Braceridge and a couple of the new fellows insist that something special is going to happen tonight, and you wanted to try your hand at writing an article,” Thomas replied, shoving his hands in his pockets. He was wearing gloves, of course, but the cold worked through them. He was pretty certain his nose was going to be frost bitten by the time he got to bed. Why was it the clearer the sky, the colder it was? “So Kit gave you this one.”

Gordon gave a disgusted sigh. “A’right, I suppose that’s fair. But what’re you doing out here?”

Keeping you from running scared from the dark and taking notes, so if your article’s unusable, we’ll have a backup, Thomas thought, although he didn’t say it out loud. Gordon’s reading had got better over the last two years, as had his writing, but all of the Beacon’s older staff were a bit sceptical of his ability to pull off an article, to say the least. “Because I’m nice and thought you might like some company.”

There was no response to that, although the younger man did lean into him a bit more. Funny how his aversion to being touched was inversely proportionate to his desire to get warm. “Then why isn’t Kit out here?”

This time Thomas said exactly what he was thinking. “Because he’s a hypocritical little sod who will shove anything he doesn’t want to do off on other people.” It might have been a bit unfair to the paper’s other proprietor, but given that Kit was at home in bed while he and Gordon were freezing their arses off in the cow pasture waiting for something to happen in the sky, he wasn’t feeling overly charitable.

Admittedly, the sky was lovely. Even in the middle of rural Yorkshire Thomas didn’t think he’d ever seen as many stars. A few feet off, Mr Braceridge was giving a lecture on the constellations to some of the other people who had elected to come stand in the field staring at the sky. But it was also bloody cold and he was well aware that he could be asleep right then. Even Richard had declined on joining them.

“Wots this thing we’re supposed to be seeing anyway?” Gordon asked, craning his neck upward. They’d brought electric torches and a few lamps out with them so they didn’t get lost or break their neck in the dark, but those had all been turned off.

“They’re called the aurora borealis,” Thomas informed him. “Also known as the northern lights.”

“Wot are they, then?”

Thomas shrugged. “I dunno’. Some sort of…light in the sky. I don’t know why it happens at all, but I bet ol’ Braceridge could talk your ear off about it.”

Gordon didn’t seem at all inclined to go and ask the scout master anything. “You ever seen it, then?”

“No, but you hear about it.”

There was a moment of thoughtful silence and then. “How do they know we’re going to see them?”

“I’m not certain they do,” Thomas sighed, not exactly pleased with the answer. The doubt was strengthened by Kit’s absence. “From what I gather someone got an almanac, that’s a book that predicts the weather and growing seasons and such, and something in it made Braceridge think there was a good likelihood.”

“Wot do we do if we don’t see them?” the boy demanded, clearly as pleased by the notion of coming out to the pasture on a fool’s errand.

“That’s easy.” Thomas shrugged. His eyes had adjusted enough that he could see his breath in the starlight. “We murder Kit for sending us out here to freeze our arses off at bloody one am for no reason.”

Gordon gave an amused sort of snort, but didn’t say anything. They lapsed into silence again. After several minutes, the younger man asked, “When’s the sun come up, then?”

Thomas’s first response was to pull out his watch, but the moon was dark, so he’d have to turn on the torch to see it and he might get scolded. “Not for hours yet, I would imagine.”

“Then wot’s that then?”

“What’s what?” Thomas asked, looking around in confusion.

“That light, over there.” Gordon pushed on his shoulder to give direction.

Thomas turned and frowned. There was, in fact, a light on the horizon, much like the light of predawn. The only problem was that it was far too early for dawn, and it was in the wrong direction. He squinted. On second though, the thing looked sort of like a glowing cloud. “I’m not certain…” He puzzled a second, then called. “Hey, Braceridge! What’s that light over there? To the north?”

There was a sudden buzz of excitement from the assembly and a jubilant cry from the scout master. “It’s them! It’s starting! Oh, well spotted Mr Barrow!”

Thomas blinked, then stared at the light. “That’s…it? That’s what we came out here for?”

“I’m going to murder Kit!”

“Now, now, chaps,” a cultured voice from somewhere to their left chuckled. Thomas placed it with Captain Smythe, a former naval officer who’d arrived on the island not long after they’d finished the building the expansion. “I know it’s not much to look at yet, but it’s just getting going. With a bit of luck, we’ll get a good show.”

“Have you seen these things before?” Gordon demanded with his usual disregard for rank or class.

“Oh yes,” the Captain replied, completely unruffled. Thomas supposed that military was military, so the Captain was probably used to courser manners than a London street rat had. “I’ve done a few tours up north to the arctic. This might be all we get, bad luck if it is, but there are nights the entire crew just went out and stared at the sky for upward of ten minutes.”

If he meant to raise Gordon’s hopes, he failed. “It only lasts ten minutes?”

“Sometimes less than that, actually, but I promise you, a good aurora is worth coming out in the dark and the cold.”

Gordon’s only response was an unconvinced ‘hmph’.

Thomas watched the horizon. The pale wash of white was certainly nothing like the descriptions of the northern light’s he’d ever heard. It did seem to be moving, maybe, at least a little bit. Then again, that might have been his imagination.

Time dragged on. The group of men continued to simply stand in the field and stare. Thomas was beginning to feel like a priceless ass when he realised the light was doing something. It was happening so slowly and subtly that he’d missed it at first, but it was definitely moving now, back and forth like a snake. It also, unless he was imagining things again, coming closer to them.

He frowned and waited.

“Right then,” Mr Braceridge announced into the darkness. “We should be getting colour soon! Keep your eyes peeled!”

Thomas was sceptical right up until the green actually appeared. At first it was just a flicker here or there, but it slowly spread until the line of lights flashed green and white like fireworks. The waving became more pronounced too, and it steadily got brighter. Soon the whole ribbon was mostly green, although there was still some white in there. “Alright,” Thomas admitted. “That’s more impressive.”

Gordon grumbled. “Still don’t know if it was worth getting up f-oh!” Suddenly there was a flicker of purple amid the white and green. As soon as the first flicker appeared, there were more, and soon the entire sky was lit up by the ribbon of light. More ribbons appeared as well, not as bright, but little ghosts or echos of the main ribbon off to the sides.

Thomas had to remind himself to breathe.

A few minutes later, the sky was black again. Thomas stared into the darkness, wondering if he’d somehow imagined the whole thing.

“Wooee!” Someone whistled. “That was a show, weren’t it?” As if the exclamation were permission, the entire group broke out in excited chattering, like a group of insects on a summer night.

“Well, chaps, what did you think?” the Captain’s voice asked. “A bit better than the start promised, eh?”

“Much,” Thomas admitted, still awed. “Although I don’t think that was ten minutes.”

“No,” the other man agreed. “More like three, I’d say. But still, you don’t always get that much colour, so I’d call even a minute worth it.”

“Yeah.” Thomas shook his head, still trying to believe what he’d just seen. He suddenly realised Gordon hadn’t said anything. “Oi, Gordon. What’d you think?”

For a moment, there was no response. Finally, in an awed voice, the younger man said, “I will never question Mr Braceridge’s sanity again.”

Thomas laughed at that and ruffled Gordon’s hair. “I wouldn’t go that far.”

#downton abbey #thomas barrow #downton abbey fanfiction #fanfiction #island of the gays #aurora borealis #northern lights #terrance gordon

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stories-of-the-nrm · 7 months ago

Text

Time Doesn't Heal All Wounds Part 6

Dr. Pine: Well Dr. Jones what do you think?

(Dr. Jones shakes his head.)

Dr. Jones: Not good at all. In fact, I'm amazed he's even still alive with how much is missing. The only think we can do is to continue keeping him in an induced coma. We then need to consider if he'll have to be put on a ventilator.

Dr. Pine: I see. Well since he isn't exactly a human, I don't think we'll be able to ask anyone regarding a living will.

Dr. Jones: Yes this is still an engine. Either way, this is a situation that has never happened before. This would change the entire medical field.

Dr. Pine: Indeed. In the meantime, I'll notify all parties involved and update them on the situation.

Dr. Jones: Sounds good.

(We cut to Scott's hospital room.)

Dr. Pine: Thank you for your patience. I do have some news to give.

Gary: What is it, Dr. Pine?

Dr. Pine: We're going to have to transfer him to another part of the hospital. Given the results of the tests we've given his brother, he's in critical condition.

George: What will happen then?

Dr. Pine: We'll have to switch medications and put him in an induced-coma. It's the only way we can safely manage his pain for a long period of time.

(The men move in a way that indicates how concerned they are.)

Dr. Pine: We're going to need to wean him off this medication. It would be dangerous to switch the types of medication he's been given right away. Especially since we're not quite sure how he'll react since he isn't fully human.

Gary: We understand doctor.

(A nurse and Dr. Pine carefully adjust Scott's medication levels.)

Narrator: Many hours pass before Scott finally starts to wake up.

(Scott's breathing changes as his eyes flutter.)

Scott: Wha-wha's?

George: Easy there, old boy.

(A nurse applies an oxygen mask.)

Nurse: This is oxygen. This will help you catch your breath.

Gary: That's right, Scott. Just take deep breaths.

(Scott starts to open his eyes.)

Scott: H-help.

(Gary and George try to soothe him.)

George: I know this is scary. The doctors are doing their best to help you. You're going to be taken to another room.

Gary: That's right, Scott. The doctor will have to put you in a coma.

(Scott looks nervous.)

Scott: A. Coma?

Dr. Pine: It's a very delicate process. We want to limit your suffering the best we can given that this could take months to resolve.

(Scott tries to breathe.)

Scott: I. Un-der-stand.

Dr. Pine: Now because this is a delicate process, I have to do my job to make sure a plan is in place. Since you are in this hospital, you will be treated with the same human rights all patients are given. Do you consent to me doing this?

(Scott nods.)

Dr. Pine: Do you consent to having our medical team do whatever it takes to keep you alive regardless of the cost during this process?

(Scott takes a second to think about it but, then nods.)

Dr. Pine: We contacted your brother and have updated him about the situation. Do you consent to us continuing to update him on your condition?

(Scott takes a deep breath.)

Scott: I want him to know.

(He takes another deep breath.)

Scott: I also want these two and my owner to know.

(Dr. Pine writes this down.)

Dr. Pine: Thank you for answering these questions. I'll update everyone involved. Now you just do your best to relax.

Scott: Thank. You.

Time Skip

Narrator: It was the day of the transfer. He had asked Gordon to be by his side.

(Gordon's holding his brother's hand.)

Gordon: I simply can not understand how we got to this point.

Scott: It's. My boiler. And my. Firebox.

Gordon: I know that much. But how can such a reputable company lose control over this project?

(There's a long pause.)

Scott: Pridham's. They don't. Know why. They won't. Answer my. Boilermakers.

Gordon: Alright. Save your breath then.

(The medical staff starts to prepare the induction process.)

Scott: Gordon. Please visit me. On my. Birthday.

(Gordon takes in the sight of his brother looking drowsy.)

Gordon: I will. I will make sure you are never alone during this entire process.

(Scott smiles.)

Scott: Thank you.

(Scott's eyes flutter closed as he goes under. Gordon looks at the medical team.)

Gordon: What will happen now?

Gary: We will call Sir Topham Hatt once we get any news about the parts.

(Gordon sighs.)

Gordon: I owe you both a lot of favors. I wish I can be here myself.

George: We understand, Gordon. We'll make sure our boy's ok.

(Gordon stands up and can only nod. He pats Scott's now limp hand.)

Gordon: I will be sure to visit you when I can. Godspeed, brother.

Tagging: @bluy1206, @werbitssft, @klein-sodor-bahn, @theyellowroseofsodor, @juniebugsss, @tornadoyoungiron, @pxmun,

@nelllia, @pxmun2, @thefedoragirl, @roosinii, @etherealcaprifandoms, @jessica-sv509510,

@jayde-jots, @thatcheeseycandle, @jordeynnotgordon, @be-kind-and-rewind-again, @hardchildpainter, @asktheoriginalorder,

@onyx-and-friends, @that-mr-e, @sustysteel198, @monika-396, @fabianvalencia561, @gordon208, @savannahlee-d29,

@bladexjester, @sketalya, @agent-7-at-your-service, @i-heart-ukrain3, @engineer-gunzelpunk,

@ladychandraofthemoone, @milkagaisme, @rushingexpress, @toast-com, @rumivi,

and @monstersteam.

#ttte fandom #nrm fanfiction #flying scotsman #lner a3 #ttte gordon

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gumnut-logic · 11 months ago

Text

Okay

Have a little FishTank with a background of pissed off Scotty.

Many thanks to the amazing @onereyofstarlight for all her help on this and for putting up with my crazy as usual :D

It was supposed to be something and this is what happened. I hope you enjoy it anyway.

-o-o-o-

Virgil rolled his shoulders as he stepped out of the elevator and into the comms room. He wasn’t surprised to find Scott’s commander persona firmly and concisely flaying someone via hologram at the main desk. Virgil had no doubt that several heads would roll after this incident.

But he would field Scott later. Besides it was fair to let the person responsible reap their rewards.

A pissed off Commander Scott Tracy was a weapon of precise destruction.

For the moment, Virgil had two aims. He rolled his shoulders again. Maybe three. Some paracetamol wouldn’t hurt alongside the coffee.

Both would be needed to tackle his main priority.

His little brother Gordon.

Those four words made it hurt even more.

Because Gordon was his little brother and when some asshole threatened the Fish - no matter how adult his brother would ever be, he would always be their Little Fish - and then had the nerve to physically assault Gordon…

Virgil beat down his anger. Anger wasn’t what he needed right now. Scott had enough to cover the entire family and then some. What Virgil needed was to be calm and centred so he could be there for Gords.

Because despite having the military background, the tough exterior, and a strength of will that continued to stun Virgil with its ferocity, Gordon was…

Hell, he was Virgil’s little brother and while Scott eviscerated those responsible, Virgil had to make sure he was okay.

Beyond the obvious physical injuries.

The anger had to be stomped on again.

He jogged down the kitchen stairs and grabbed the paracetamol out of the medical kit stashed under the sink. He chugged it down with some coffee, probably hotter than it should be for the meds, but he needed both so that’s what he worked with.

Gords was lying on one of the loungers by the pool. It was odd to see him out there but not actually in the water. The sling holding a broken arm, the concussion, and black eye, hidden by convenient sunglasses, were reason enough.

As with all of Gordon’s injuries in the field, Virgil was fully prepared to find a way to enable his brother to get back into the pool as soon as possible.

It was a survival instinct, after all. A Fish out of water tended to be flammable and explosive - Virgil liked their villa in one piece and minus the pranks born of boredom or frustration.

But it would be a couple of days at least before Gordon could be let into the pool this time. The broken arm was fine, it was the head injuries that weren’t conducive to swimming.

Virgil stared out at his little brother a moment while downing the remains of his coffee. Food was likely out of the question, but Gords might be able to manage a light drink, get some simple sugars and energy into him.

Turning back to the kitchen, he rustled up some tropical fruit juices, coconut cream and ice, dropping a splash of cranberry into the mostly yellow and orange concoction. A small smile and Virgil dug out one of his brother’s little cocktail umbrellas to give it the Gordon-pizazz it required.

He even made one for himself, put both of them on a tray, along with a small bowl of brightly coloured barley sugars.

Holding the tray steady, Virgil stepped softly out onto the patio and bee-lined casually in his brother’s direction.

The dark sunglasses glanced up. “Virg, I’m fine.”

Virgil ignored him, sliding the tray onto the small table next to Gordon. Not saying anything at all, Virgil grabbed the nearest empty lounger and dragged it over, dumping himself into it with a sigh.

He claimed his drink and fiddled with the umbrella. They reminded him of his fish brother, they really did.

And the drink was cool on his coffee-blasted throat.

Nothing was said for a long moment.

“Scott toasting the GDF?” Gordon didn’t even look at Virgil.

“More like roasting, after skinning and gutting.”

“Perhaps we should put warning labels on our uniforms. Warning: Commander will go medieval on your ass if you ever lay a finger on any member of International Rescue.”

“Family.”

Gordon groaned. “Way to serious a perfectly good pun, bro.”

Virgil shrugged and his shoulders ached. “It was a serious incident.”

“Yeah.” The word was mostly breath and ever so resigned. His brother looked away, out towards the sea.

“How are you feeling?”

A sigh. “As I said, I’m fine.”

Virgil sipped at his drink. “You don’t look fine.”

Gordon shifted where he sat. “What do you expect?”

“No expectations.”

His brother scoffed and turned back to looking at the ocean. There was nothing but breeze, birds and the waves for a very long moment.

“No, I didn’t expect it all.”

“Expect what?”

“The good guy to be such an asshole.”

Virgil didn’t comment, sipping his drink and waiting…

“They are supposed to help us. Supposed to be us. I didn’t expect him to do that. I would never put my life above so many. I’m in this because I believe in what we do!” Gordon’s uninjured arm was pointing and gesticulating not unlike their biggest brother inside. Virgil was often struck by how Scott and Gordon were so similar, yet so different. “We are the ones with the skills, the equipment and the vow to do everything we can to help people out of dangerous situations. There were families, Virg! Little kids! And he was willing to sacrifice them all.”

“You did good, Gords, you know that.”

“I should have done better.” Gordon’s good hand balled into a fist. “I should have seen it coming. Should have seen beyond the uniform. Should have hit him harder!”

Virgil turned on the lounger and let his feet touch the concrete so he could reach over and place a hand on Gordon’s leg. “You did everything you possibly could. None of us expected betrayal, much less from the GDF.” He drew in a breath. “It will be fixed.”

Gordon scoffed. “Of course, it will be fixed. With both Scott and John on their asses, they’ll be lucky there is any GDF left by the time they’re finished.” Gordon wilted just a little. “I hate it when you guys have to do that. Scott doesn’t need any more grey hairs, and Johnny shouldn’t have to skirt the law. I should have handled it better.”

Virgil stared at his little brother. “What John does with the law is not your responsibility.” Though Virgil would need to check on his space brother. John was as pissed as Scott. Maybe they should have a movie night tonight with all the junk food to go with it. Drag John down, corner Scott, and get the lot of them to sit down and take a breather. A few hugs would definitely not go astray either. Some reassurance that Gords was still here. “And Scott is going to kick ass regardless. That GDF officer had no right to intervene on our rescue and then to put his life above all the others he was meant to save…” Virgil let the sentence hang and he fought down his rage and outrage again. He swallowed. “You did what you always do, Gordon.” His eyes latched onto those dark sunglasses. “You did us proud.”

The sunglasses stared at him a moment. “You okay?”

“I will be.” Once his brothers were okay.

“Virg?”

Virgil slid off the lounger and onto his knees, holding his arms out a little. “C’mere.”

Gordon rolled his eyes, but smiled as Virgil enveloped him in a hug.

It was for Virgil as much as Gordon.

To find a GDF officer on the train carriage had been a blessing at first. The man had taken charge, liaised with IR, and set people at ease. But once IR made it onto the scene and Gordon, and the rescue rig, arrived to start getting people out, the man has changed.

Sure, it was a perilous situation and yes, the train could have dropped any moment despite Two securing it with grapples. But nothing excused the man’s conduct.

He had thrown fellow passengers aside and demanded to be rescued first. Gordon, of course, said no. IR had its priorities and not only was the man a trained GDF officer, but fit and healthy, and, if the emergency became more dire, he would be more likely to survive a more physical rescue attempt. Unlike the elderly and the children on that train.

And hell, the man had taken a pledge to serve and protect.

None of them had expected anger from the man, much less physical violence. He grappled with Gordon, determined to board the rescue rig first.

Gordon was well trained and an expert in self defence. However, the dynamics changed when you were hanging over an empty chasm that ended in certain death.

Gordon was thrown from the train and it was one of the worst moments in Virgil’s life. Yes, his brother was tethered, thank god, but the carriage was precarious, moving with the sudden change in weight distribution, and tangling with the safety line. Both Gordon and the rig had been dragged down with the train, forcing Two to compensate. Alerts screamed as the grapples securing the carriage strained with the sudden shift.

Virgil’s voice still ached from his yelling his brother’s name.

And the lack of an answer.

It had been Virgil who shimmied down the rescue rig cable, desperate to locate Gordon with John worrying in his ears.

He had found his brother upside down with a massive dent in the side of his helmet, faceplate cracked, unconscious.

Virgil retrieved and secured him in the rescue rig.

Then it was Virgil who had to face the rogue GDF officer. Virgil, who was considered the gentle giant who wouldn’t hurt a soul.

Virgil, who physically picked up the yelling man and, despite his struggles, strapped him into the rescue rig in a very specific unable-to-move way. Hence the aching shoulders and the bruises.

Twenty people were rescued from that train, the very last barely making it out as gravity and wind finally took their toll and John was forced to release Two, or lose them all.

Most of them were injured in some way, but none as much as his little brother.

The GDF officer spent the rest of the ride strapped in the rescue rig in Module Two.

Virgil managed to not say a single word to the man the entire time.

Gordon woke up swearing, halfway to the hospital, and didn’t let up until the doctors let him go under Virgil’s supervision several hours later.

Debrief had been explosive. Scott livid, John tight lipped and furious, Virgil…

He pulled his little brother in just that little bit tighter.

“Oof, Virg, I’m okay.” But Gordon didn’t let go.

Virgil released him a little, but rested his head on his brother’s non-injured shoulder and closed his eyes.

And tried to convince himself of Gordon’s words.

-o-o-o-

#thunderbirds are go #thunderbirds #thunderbirds fanfiction #virgil tracy #gordon tracy #scott tracy #nuttyfic #fishtank #there were supposed to be more hugs in this #it was supposed to be a giftfic but isn't good enough #eh it is what it is #at least it is no longer a wip #unless a sequel starts chewing on my brain #which is always a possibility #after all Scotty is not happy #John is livid #and Virgil is a long smoldering mass of anger

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