#Kavala city

[onarangel]

Door in Kavala,Greece

[aretis]

#kavala #city #greece

📸 @bart_ferdynus

#greeksummer #summer2023

[wraioskosmos]

Εγώ, εσύ και αυτή η θέα...

[bizarrebazaar13]

yeah I wish the description was clearer about this. even just like “you’ve lived in London your whole life but this is a new city now” idk I’m not a game marketer. something to clarify that the game works on the assumption that the player is english.

i'm just. i know i should give mask another chance now that the pacing is fixed but im still kinda bitter over things.

Like i know I already made a post on it but the literal description of the game makes it seem like you can pick who you are!!! ‘who were you before the Fall? Who will you be now?’ sounds nice, but the reality is ‘who will you be’ can only be christian and english. This was an issue I had hoped wouldn’t be carried over as much from Fallen London, but the capability for the suspension of disbelief of being anything else is worse here due to the dialogue. I understand limiting the scope of writing if you feel you are unable to write anything else properly, but this needs to be specified at least in the backgrounds or the description.

 It is always disheartening to be presented with a game that aims to advertise its option of playing as ‘yourself’, which then turns with the expectation of only one type of person. It is a shame the game will not let you be of an  Irish, Jewish, Scottish, etc. background, with the added aspect of those types of characters being present in the game making it all more confounding. Having a diverse cast does not feel as meaningful when the game doesn’t let you, as the player, be a character of your own background.

[blueiscoool]

The Marble Head of Apollo Unearthed in Greece

The excavation, carried out by a group of students of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in the archaeological site of Philippi Kavala, brought to light important findings. Among other things, they discovered a rare head of Apollo dating back to the 2nd or early 3rd century AD.

The statue dates back to the 2nd or early 3rd century AD and it probably adorned an ancient fountain.

Natalia Poulos, Professor of Byzantine Archaeology, led the excavation, which included fifteen students from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (11 undergraduates, 2 master’s, and 2 PhD candidates), Assistant Docent Anastasios Tantsis, and Professor Emeritus of Byzantine Archaeology Aristotle Mendzo.

Archaeologists say, this year the excavation continued east of the southern main road (decumanus) at the point where it meets the northern axis of the city (the so-called “Egnatia”). The continuation of the marble-paved road was revealed, on the surface of which a coin (bronze phyllis) of the emperor Leo VI (886-912) was found, which helps to determine the duration of the road’s use. At the point where the two streets converge, a widening (square) seems to have been formed, dominated by a richly decorated building.

Archaeologists say evidence from last year’s excavations leads them to assume it was a fountain. The findings of this year’s research confirm this view and help them better understand its shape and function.

The research of 2022 brought to light part of the rich decoration of the fountain with the most impressive statue depicting Hercules as a boy with a young body.

The recent excavation (2023) revealed the head of another statue: it belongs to a figure of an ageneous man with a rich crown topped by a laurel leaf wreath. This beautiful head seems to belong to a statue of the god Apollo. Like the statue of Hercules, it dates from the 2nd or early 3rd century AD and probably adorned the fountain, which took its final form in the 8th to 9th centuries.

In classical Greek and Roman religion and mythology, Apollo is one of the Olympian gods. He is revered as a god of poetry, the Sun and light, healing and illness, music and dance, truth and prophecy, and archery, among other things.

Philip II, King of Macedon, founded the ancient city of Philippi in 356 BC on the site of the Thasian colony of Crenides near the Aegean Sea. The archaeological site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 for its outstanding Roman architecture, urban layout as a smaller reflection of Rome itself, and significance in early Christianity.

By Oguz Buyukyildirim.

[travelingare]

📍Kavala,Greece 🇬🇷

The city of Kavala is built on a hillside along the Aegean coast, a cultural crossroads between East and West that has everything you could want in a destination and more. mountains, beaches, perfect cityscapes, amazing views, important monuments and sites, delicious local cuisine and amazing places to discover within a short distance.

#kavala #kavalacity #greece

🎥:@johnnyxatz #travel #tourism #air #drone #dji #summer #sea#travelingare

[a-world-with0ut-dr34ms]

Obedear

From Control - Full Story in Progress on AO3!

Graves x Shadow!Reader

You see a new side of Graves and the Shadows that's much darker than what you were used to, as a bad situation during your mission only grows worse...

TW: Torture, Blood, Somewhat Explicit Violence, Swearing, Dark, Bone-Breaking

Tags: Action, Drama, Thriller(?), Partly Pre-Canon, Swearing, Violence, Torture, Dark, Graves and Shadow Company are villains, Angst, somewhat villain Reader, Character Study, a little edgy, slight melodrama, it's just a somewhat tense situation

Word Count: 5.6k

A/N: A little different than what I type normally: no romance, more action-oriented drama. Might be dumb. I just wanted to type a little villainy action stuff for Graves and Shadow Company because I'm brain dead and like writing about bad people sometimes. Let a villain be a villain, I say. (Not that I'm condoning!)

Definitely a chapter meant to demonstrate only some of the measures I feel Graves would take for the sake of covering up a fuck up. He just seems like a guy who likes to dabble in a little torture, but that's just what I think. I also like making the Y/N character person go through it. ┐( ˘_˘)┌

ԅ (≖◡≖ԅ) anyway...

Masterlist

Chapter Thirteen - Obedear

Death.

That’s what runs through your enemies minds when they see your coat of arms -- the Rook insignia of Shadow Company -- the certainty that the end has come.

The Shadows were nothing more than a frightful whisper in the night to those unfortunate enough to be on the wrong side of things. The rumored name their enemies traded after discovering yet another bloodbath left out for display.

It takes a special type of depravity to earn a title like that one; the kind of rep' that runs your blood cold. Under Phillip Graves' command, they were the hideous embodiment of the big, dark shadow in your closet. Boogeymen within the PMC ring. Beastly, merciless, and unforgiving.

Death.

Tonight, you would be the bringer of that destined death, as your target remains oblivious to the impending doom heading his way now.

"…Three, two, one. Execute!"

A small charge blows the handle off a large, metal door, breaking it from its hinges, as it sways open with an eerie creak. The noise attracts the attention of a barking dog in the distance; none from any humans however, nor passing vehicles.

You, Percy and Jeremy stand in a cramped alleyway between two neighboring apartment complexes. The lack of street lamps and available moonlight peaking over the tall, stone buildings, made the alley near pitch black in the night.

This part of Kavala wasn't as populated as the other tourists-filled spots in the city, allowing for you and your men to move in the night with little fear of attracting attention and tipping off your target. With any luck, you could be in and out with Onyx in a matter of minutes.

You flip your night vision goggles on, a hazy green hue overtaking your senses, as you take a peek into the room you'd just broken and entering into -- the back stairwell to the apartments.

Whoever runs this place didn't bother having any of the lights running in this part. You weren't likely to run into anyone this way, at least. Not without you having the upper hand.

"Shadow-1, this is Canary," you say in your comms. "We've breached the building. Entering now. How copy?"

"Good copy," Graves radios in. "Onyx's room is on the fourth floor, room 213. Radio in once you're done. If you run into any "problems", go ahead and dump 'em. Just keep it quiet, yeah?"

"Roger that, Commander. Out here."

Jeremy begins to mutter beneath his breath, "Of course he's on the fourth floor."

The man stands at the foot of the stairwell, using his rifle's scope to look up ahead. He hasn't had much to say to you since you parted from the rest of the team. It's probably the quietest you've ever heard him, which was fine by you.

"You could use the exercise," you poke at him with a whisper, moving past Shadow 2-0 to start making your way up. "Let's move."

Percy follows close behind, silently covering you, as Jeremy follows with a huff.

The stairwell was a tight squeeze, given how far up it stretches, people leaving loose laundry to dry, and their belongings scattered about. You move up quietly, listening for every possible noise.

Dim lights from the small door windows beam in like thin rays, cutting through the dark, as you advance up another set of steps. You hear the faint noises of TVs and chatter echoing from other rooms down their respective halls, unaware of your team creeping by. Indeed, this building was actively being lived in.

The sounds grow less lively as you ascend the steps, before they're replaced by the creaking of the stairwell, and your increasing pulse.

The stairwell eerily blocks out the sounds of the world outside itself, leaving you with the muted steps of your boots against the hard floor, and your low breathing.

The heavy burden of your task at hand grew more prominent.

The adrenaline rises slowly. It made your heart ring in your ears, and the hairs on the back of your neck stand up beneath your mask and clothing. You'd only remember the presence of yourself when you would unconsciously swallow.

You reach the fourth floor, removing your night vision so you could peek through the door window.

Taking a small gander of the hallway, you check for signs of roaming residents. This floor seemed to house more empty rooms than the ones below it, with little to no traffic; a deliberate choice by your target no doubt, and one Onyx would soon regret.

The coast looked clear enough.

You turn to your team and give them a small nod, before opening the door and piling into the hallway. As quick as you can, you begin skimming the room numbers, keeping your rifles lowered and your heads on the swivel.

209… 210 … 211 … 212…

Room 213. The last room down the hall.

The three of you huddle around the door, your backs pressed against the wall, and your ears locked in. There's laughter erupting from inside, along with some blaring rap music, too unidentifiable from where you stand to make any of it out.

With how loud it was, there was no way Onyx, nor his men, would hear your team closing in. The chatter grew more rambunctious, multiple men's voices picking up through the walls now.

Your team all share glances with one another, running by the next plan of action with a single lock of the gaze. You recall what was discussed in your briefing hours ago, and prepare yourself.

You lift your hand up and silently begin to count down from five. Four. Three. Two. One.

Percy shoots the door handle, his silencer making the shot a "Plink!" noise, as the door lightly swung ajar. The moment it opens, Jeremy lifts his boot and kicks it in, raising his rifle and rushing into the apartment. You and Percy follow suit, your guns aimed and ready, fingers hovering over the trigger.

In a few short seconds, you take in your surroundings: One exit, a single, curtainless window across from you, a kitchen to your left -- divided by an island counter, and a hallway to your right going towards the bedrooms.

It smelt of cigarettes and dust. The apartment was small and overstuffed with tacky, old furniture and décor. Immediately, you shift your sights to the occupants of the apartment. Your target.

A group of five men sat at a round dining room table off to the left of the entrance and living room. You immediately identify Onyx by his black tracksuit and gold chain, sitting at the table's center. The man's a lot more lanky up close, scrawny even. Though his brown eyes carried the look of a seasoned killer.

They're heads all snapped to the sound of the door crashing open, startled gazes quickly twisting with rage. They reach for their pistols on the table, ready to draw, only they're a few seconds too short.

Jeremy shoots the first shot, riddling one of the guards with bullets and planting him permanently in his seat. The flash from his gunfire lights the room at each pop, as Percy joins in shortly after, taking care of the man next to him who tried to reach for his gun. 

You shoot the last two men with swift precision, making a clean shot through both their skulls back to back, and leaving Onyx as the last man at the table.

"Ahhh!!"

There's an intense scream that comes from the kitchen to your left.

Instinctively, you turn both your body and rifle to the sound, prepared to shoot down this unknown assailant. However, you freeze at the sight of the culprit, your hands locking in place. You see a woman.

Her brown hair is long and curly, her makeup as put together as what she wore. She stands in the kitchen, staring at all the dead bodies, with her hands clasped tightly over her mouth in fear, the tears already streaming down her face.

Suddenly, you come face to face with your own humanity, having switched that part off the moment you stepped through the door. Only you hadn't noticed until now.

The woman screams again, and this time it attracts the attention of the others on your team. Jeremy's in particular.

Shadow 2-0 whips his rifle towards the woman's direction, and without much thought at all, pulls the trigger.

POP!

You watch the bullet slice over the woman's shoulder, just barely missing the major part of her arm, as her blood splatters against the white refrigerator behind her like a paintball pellet.

The woman cries out, grabbing at her arm hysterically. She begins to cower over in fear, suddenly attempting to grab at something near her knees, just below where you couldn't see over the kitchen counter.

You hear tiny footsteps begin to bolt, and to your absolute horror, you see the small shadow of someone bolt from around the counter.

A child.

The kid weaves through you and your team, making a beeline for the hallway, as the woman screams in Russian for him to come back. This sends Onyx in a tizzy.

With no regard for his own safety, the man stands from his seat and attempts to chase after the child, only to be stopped by a bullet to the calf from Jeremy.

Onyx crashes to the floor, only barely catching himself from face-planting onto the ground. Percy takes this opportunity to apprehend Onyx. He drops his knee down onto the man's back until it digs in his spine, swinging his fists down at him a few times before grabbing hold of both his arms.

Amidst the chaos, Jeremy turns his attention back to the belligerent woman, who was seconds away from going completely off the deep end.

"Hey!" Jeremy raises his rifle, threatening to swing it down on her, as though that would help things. "Quit your screamin'!"

She ignores him, crying more, and using her good arm to shield herself from him. It's very likely the poor woman didn't speak English.

The woman's sobbing pleas only seem to further erupt Onyx into a fit of rage. He squirms beneath Percy's knee, cursing and yelling in Russian, making a loud scene.

You step over to Jeremy, attempting to salvage what little Russian you did know to try and get the woman to calm herself. For her sake, she needed to; others in your company would not be as patient.

"Quiet," you tell her. "You need to be quiet."

The woman hears you, but struggles to manage her blubbering, just barely being able to keep from hyperventilating. You couldn't blame her either; Jeremy made this situation more difficult right from the jump. Not that you expected any less from him. Shadow 2-0 was as brutish and uncaring as mercenaries came, the kind of man who shouldn't be in this line of work, and yet thrived in it.

You quickly step back over to the entrance, peaking outside to make sure the commotion hadn't attracted any attention. The hallways remained as empty as you had left them, surprisingly enough. With the music inside still blaring like it was, most of this ordeal was probably drowned out and ignored by the neighbors. Hopefully.

You make sure to shut what remains of the front door behind you on your way back in.

"Shadow-1, we've apprehended the target," you call in. "Awaiting orders."

Radio silence.

You tap your foot impatiently, guessing at what it was that kept your commander from replying. Shepherd, most likely. He's been going out of his way to hound and micromanage you and your Company as of late, almost as though he did not trust you. Which was insulting, given what you knew of him.

After everything the Shadows have done already, trust felt more than owed.

"I told you to keep it down!" Jeremy yells at the woman.

"Screamin' at her's not gonna help any," you say.

Percy cuts in now. "She's probably cryin' for her fuckin' kid."

"Why don't you go get it then, Canary?" Jeremy turns his frustrations to you. "Since you're just standing there."

You would argue, though you couldn't find it in you to do that right now. Your mind felt a bit scattered suddenly.

"Copy that, Canary." Graves' voice brings you back into perspective. "Run into any trouble in there?"

You begin to take in more of the details around the apartment, catching the occasional child's toy on the ground, and family picture on the wall. Onyx's wife and child. The woman and that kid. It makes sense that he'd live with his family, though it's not what you anticipated on barging into when you came here. You hadn't put much thought into that at all, actually.

"Negative, Commander. No issues from us. But…" you're a bit hesitant to mention it to him, knowing what would come of this family if Graves knew. You eventually decide to speak however, some subliminal sense of duty pushing you to. "There are civilians in here, sir."

"Sounds nonessential," Graves says.

Nonessential. Just what you wanted to hear. You sigh in relief. However, it is short-lived.

"They look like they might be his wife and kid, sir," Jeremy radios in. A game changing piece of information in this event. One which quickly sank your heart at your Commander's sudden silence on the other end.

"They still breathin'?" he asks plainly. Quite a question to have on his mind, though it does not surprise you in the least.

"Yes, sir," you say. "Though, the wife's been wounded."

There's another long pause from Graves. You begin to think he may be relaying this back to Shepherd as you speak, seeing as the assignment was entirely dependent on what the General saw fit.

"Tie 'em up and meet us out back," said Graves. "Bring the whole family with ya while you're at it, and make it snappy. Shadow-1 out."

The comms shut off, and the silence which follows feels deafening.

Percy hoists Onyx up aggressively, as he quickly zip-ties the man's hands behind his back, placing a black sack over his head. The whole time, Shadow 3-1 made sure to keep the barrel of his rifle pressed to his back, reminding him not to try anything.

"I said on your fucking feet!"

You hear Jeremy yell at the woman again. He yanks at her wounded arm until she's standing, the poor lady crying out in pain from her injury. Not that he cared for her condition, just that he could quickly have her subdued and blindfolded.

"I'll go look for the kid," you decide.

You venture down the dark hallway, peering into each room you pass, trying to keep your mind at ease.

Any time you pause for even a short second, you feel your lungs shake in your chest. It was as though they were filling with some sort of fluid, drowning you from the inside out. It made it hard to swallow.

That kid is in here somewhere. Confused. Terrified. Your black silhouettes seared into their little eyes. To this child you search for, you were the boogeyman of the night. The shadowy figure come to haunt their dreams for the rest of their life. Death.

Suddenly it didn't feel as prestigious holding such a title.

You've widowed and orphaned your fair share of families; you're more than aware of that. In this line of work, you're so aware of that, in fact, that you no longer thought about it. The families involved were very much out of sight and out of mind. That's what made the job so doable, because it's easier to shoot bad men when that's all you see them for.

Coming face to face with that reality had you more shaken up than you'd wished. You thought you'd be more prepared for something like this to happen, it was bound to. Yet your hands won't stop shaking.

A few cynical lines of encouragement pop in to your head, as you try to rationalize things and put them into some kind of digestible perspective. It's all you really can do.

Bad people have families too, this is obvious. You have a job to do and a home to keep safe. Had the roles been flipped, you'd be shown the same treatment, if not worse. And you don't deserve to feel any type of way about this. You're the one holding the gun.

And it's not like you're doing this because any of you want to either.

So long as AQ is around and those missiles remain on the loose, your life is gone. You'd know no peace until this situation is resolved. Black Bag left you with no other option. If you want your life back, then this is what must be done.

That's what you keep telling yourself.

You reach the last room at the end of the hall, a child's bedroom. It's not the most lavishly decorated, but you could tell that whoever set it up put a lot of care into making it a suitable space for their kid.

You look around, checking the obvious hiding spots: the closet first, then behind the door. You then check underneath the bed. You admit, you jumped a little when you actually saw the kid hiding there.

The child is tiny, no older than maybe six or seven, with large eyes struck with fear from the sight of you. They don't scream however, too terrified to. Perhaps hoping you would not see them if they remained still.

With your mask on, you looked about as shadowy and hostile as the rest of your team. However, you keep your distance from the kid, looking back to see if the others could see you.

Not a soul stands in the doorway behind you.

It doesn't take you long to decide your next move.

You turn to the child, and simply bring your finger to your masked lips. "Shh."

You tell them to be quiet, praying they stay put, and wishing they had not been here to see this happen. It breaks your heart to see the child's eyes on you like this, and for you to be so helpless at remedying the pain you've caused.

"Shh," you tell them. "Stay."

The kid doesn't budge, though you get the sense they understand you.

You stand and slowly leave the room, shutting the door behind you. With any luck, the others wouldn't come to look themselves. You're sure you'll get chewed out for this, but you were prepared for it. It was needless to involve the man's family in this.

You re-emerge from the hallway, finding Percy and Jeremy standing by in the living room with the target and his wife. They're both apprehended, bags over their heads and arms tied tightly behind their backs. It appears they'd been yelled at enough times to remain quiet, for now. Though the woman still sobs quietly.

"You find the kid?" Jeremy asks abruptly.

Quickly, you run with the best argument you can come up with at the spur of the moment.

"They're hiding around here somewhere," you say. "But we've gotta move. Just make do with what we got."

"Stay here and I'll go look for the little fucker," Jeremy volunteers. "Since you can't do it."

"That's not necessary," you say.

"It ain't like this place is big," he retorts.

"We move out," you put more bass into your voice, standing up tall. What you were not about to do was debate with Shadow 2-0 on whether or not he can personally acknowledge you as his superior. You didn't need his acknowledgement, you are his superior. "That's an order."

Jeremy stands there for a moment, neither speaking nor moving. Almost attempting to intimidate you, seeing if you'd break composure before he did.

You matched his energy however, neither speaking nor moving yourself. Waiting to see if he'd openly disobey a direct order from you.

"We ain't got all night," you cut in. "Now let's move."

Jeremy grabs hold of the collar of the woman's shirt and starts bringing her around to the entrance. "Yup-yup."

Percy follows Jeremy out of the room, bringing Onyx with him, and leaving you in the apartment alone. Your eyes linger down the end of the hall, where that child's door remains shut.

You wondered how long they would wait before they open that door again.

…

You drive a ways out of Kavala, until your surroundings become a deep abyss, the only other vehicles on the road being miles away from where you are. When you've reached a small patch of woods, Graves has the van veer off road. You drive until the woods submerge you, parking off to the right someplace more open.

This far away, you and your company were granted with complete solitude, where no one would be able to hear the impending screaming and crying to come.

You all exit the vehicle in near unison, Jeremy pulling Onyx out from the back of the van. He struggles to stand properly, his leg having been bleeding from the bullet wound on his calf since you left the apartments.

Jeremy merely drags Onyx, bringing the man out in front of the van's headlights. He then throws him against a tree, watching his back slam into the hardwood sharply.

He pulls the sack from Onyx's head and his eyes squint from the bright lights. With his vision still adjusting, Graves and his company appeared as shadows in the black of night.

Graves makes his way over to the arms dealer, slinging his rifle over his shoulder. He observes as the man works himself up again, standing to his feet.

"What is this?" Onyx snarls. "You're American, right? Military? You can't do this to me!"

"Who said anything about us being military?" Graves says.

"If you're not military, then who?" Onyx demanded.

"How 'bout I ask the questions from here," Graves gets close to the man, clapping his hands together. "Alright?"

Onyx spits at the commander. "Fuck you, you dog!"

You slowly brace yourself for the inevitable now, remaining some distance from the scene, away from the headlights, within the dark. Graves always liked to give off this cavalier attitude to start things off, but you knew it only hid a man who held incredibly little patience for bullshit. 

Graves wipes the spit from himself and shakes his head, smacking his lips together disappointedly. He then proceeds to bring his fist down fast, his gloved knuckles colliding hard against the man's nose.

The man's head whips to the side violently. The sheer force causes him to lose his footing, as he crashes to the ground, only to then be brought back up to his feet by Shadow 2-0.

"Now," Graves says. "I've got a few questions, and you've got two options. You tell me what I want to hear, or I put the fear of God in you and then you tell me what I want to hear."

Onyx doesn't reply, his nose beginning to drip with blood. Graves takes his silence as an invitation to continue speaking.

"You did business with Ghorbrani, once upon a time," Graves says. "As one of his dealers. One of many, that is. Only he's kicked the bucket, and you're still trading with someone who's got ties with Ghorbrani's old friends. Someone I'm interested in gettin' to know."

Onyx really takes in Graves' question, and chuckles. "I see now," he says. "You're not military but you're with America. You contractors then? Mercenaries?"

"All you need to know is that I want the name of the man you're trading with. The asshole threatening my country. I've got good intel saying you know 'em. So you're gonna tell me."

"You'll see him soon enough," Onyx taunts. "As will your shit stain of a country, dog."

Graves' eyes travel down to the bullet hole in Onyx's calf, which has been steadily bleeding this entire time. The commander looks around at the rest of your team. "Who shot him?"

"I did, sir," Percy answers for himself.

Graves kneels down by it, Jeremy keeping his gun trained on Onyx so that he doesn't attempt to kick and fight his way out of this. The arms dealer helplessly looks down at the commander, fearful of what may come next. You share the sentiment.

"Good on you." Graves takes the tip of his index finger and sticks it into Onyx's bullet wound. The man jolts and squirms and yelps in pain, but Jeremy grabs hold of his arm, keeping him standing in his tight grip.

Onyx's cries echo throughout the woods. It makes you nauseous listening to it.

"Give me a name," Graves tells him.

Onyx can barely talk through the searing pain shooting up his leg "…I'm a dead man either way."

"That might be true," says Graves. "But I'd say you've still got about an hour left in you. Tell me what I want to hear. Who's supplying AQ?"

Onyx doesn't speak.

Graves gives him maybe five seconds before he's pushed his finger uncomfortably far into his wound again. A pained scream gurgles from Onyx's throat, filling the entire area with his mangled voice.

The Commander continues this vicious cycle of asking Onyx the same few questions, and causing him some variation of pain when he wouldn't answer.

Who have you been working with in AQ? Another finger in the wound. Who's trying to replace Ghorbrani? A small series of fists, boots, and knees rumble against Onyx's head and chest. A nose breaks, some ribs crack. His blood begins to stain the ground around him. Give me a name.

In the midst of this brutality, Onyx does let slip a few short answers, but nothing that wasn't obvious or too useful. Someone was trying to replace Ghorbrani, some new, wannabe despot. Whoever they are, that's who's been working with Russia and arming AQ. If they can get a name, that would already be enough for them to take back to Shepherd and Laswell.

Barely a half hour passes before Onyx looks like a pale comparison of himself. His face is littered with various lumps and discolored bruises, his eyes so swollen it was a wonder he could still see, let alone be conscious. If Graves keeps things up like this, there wouldn't be much of him left to work with.

Graves seemed to comment a lot about the way you work as of late, yet you've almost forgotten what it was like to watch him at work, in his prime element. The real him; and how second nature his cruelty could appear.

It comes as a cold reminder.

Graves eventually grew bored of picking at the man's open wounds or beating him, opting for Onyx's fingers instead. He starts with the pinky first, then the ring finger, and then his middle, taking each one and bending it back with a resounding snap. A sharp noise in these quiet woods, one which made you cringe at each break.

You could not understand how unphased and far removed Graves could be with another human. Yet, you know what must run through his mind right now -- the same thoughts you've been trying to remind yourself of all night. You have no choice. Only you see Graves now, and you know those words you've been trying to convince yourself of believing were true in his mind. He had no doubt about it.

To Graves, this is just what needed to be done. To Graves, this man deserved this. And to Graves, it was just another loose end. When that's all he sees you as, it no longer mattered what else you once were. That is simply what you will always be to him.

SNAP!

Another finger gets folded and crunched, sending Onyx into a screaming, rocking fit.

"We've still got plenty o' fingers to go here, bud'," Graves says. He leans in close to Onyx, until his face is only about an inch or so from him, masked and black goggles reflecting back to the man his tattered state. "Give. Me. A. Name."

Onyx's eyes dip, falling to the patch on Graves' arm. He has a realization to himself suddenly. "…That insignia… I recognize it from somewhere… the Rook piece, with the Ace of Spades… I've seen it before…"

"Is that right?" Graves backs away, allowing for him to keep speaking.

"…Back in Al Mazrah."

You see Graves freeze.

"…Konni never put a face to the bodies, but it was your company right? A month or so ago… Yeah, the Shadow Company… That's what those patches said on those corpses…"

The woods around you grow bone chillingly cold suddenly, as the silence screams at you. Onyx picks up on the sudden change in Grave's posture, taking this moment to breathe.

The others stand around silently, unsure of what it was Onyx was referencing, and exchanging small glances. You look to your Commander, who only looks back at you. You can’t see his eyes, but you know exactly what he's thinking.

Black Bag.

This changes everything.

Graves takes a step away from the man, though he doesn't turn his view from him. He reaches up and turns his comms on. "Gold Eagle Actual," he says. "You pick all that up?"

"I did…" Shepherd replies. "Find out what else he knows, get that name from him, and bury him some place deep."

"Copy that, Actual."

Onyx laughs more to himself. "Ah, so that was you from that night… I should thank you. AQ wouldn't be what it is now without your help."

"Shadow 2-0," Graves looks back towards the van. "Go 'head and bring the missus out for me, will ya?"

You watch Onyx's expression waver and drop, beginning to regret the last few things he had said now.

Jeremy drags the woman out to where everyone is standing, throwing her to the ground in front of Graves. She falls chest first, her hands still tied to her back and a sack no longer over her head. She shivers and cries there, feebly waiting.

Onyx begins to speak Russian to his wife, his voice broken and frantic; though you're not fluent in the language, you pick up a few small phrases. Attempts to comfort her.

The woman's voice sobs at Onyx, her words broken by her tears. She isn't allowed to finish before Graves' has grabbed a handful of her brown hair. He grabs her hair tightly and hoists her up to her feet, as she yelps in pain.

This makes Onyx jump up from his spot, mustering that last bit of strength he had in him. It's only cut down by Percy, who sends his foot into the back of Onyx's injured leg. The man falls back down to his knees.

"Leave her out of this!" Onyx demands.

"Or what?" Graves taunts. "I seem to recall my men not being given the same mercy back in Al Mazrah. Ain't that right? You know about it after all."

He pulls the woman closer, watching the way her mascara stains her cheeks, her knees buckling beneath her. She'd tumble over had he not had such a tight grip in her hair. She grits her teeth to mask the pain.

"Meeting you is about to be the worst decision she's made in her entire life," Graves states. "You think on that the next time you call me dog, you fucking scum. You brought this on yourself. Now give me a fucking name!"

Onyx shares a look with his wife, his expression sinking. You can see in him somewhere, he wants to speak up, if not just for the sake of his wife. But the powers above, whoever it was he worked with, the fear of their retribution was enough to keep him silent, even now.

Graves sighs, and brings the woman over so he could whisper in her ear. "Get on your knees for me, honey."

He uses his boot to press into the back of her leg, bringing her down to her knees as he  nonchalantly continues to grip a handful of her hair like a loose rope. His hold on her keeps the woman's head up and her eyes forward. He didn't want her to miss that frightened look on her husband's face.

"There you go," Graves coos. "Good girl."

And then, he pulled out his pistol and placed the barrel right at the back of the woman's skull. She feels the harsh coolness of the barrel, and begins to cry and pray silently in front of her husband.

Graves begins to count down. "Ten. Nine."

Onyx starts to argue with Graves as he counts down, unable to move or do anything without Percy seating him right back in his spot.

"Eight. Seven. Six."

The woman's sobbing grows louder the lower the countdown gets. At this point, you've memorized all the pitches her frantic voice could create, as for that twisted look on her face.

"FIVE. FOUR."

Onyx has turned to pleading with Graves now, but you knew that wouldn't work. There would be no begging with your Commander. He's told Onyx already what it is he wants, his wife is expendable.

"THREE. TWO-"

"Ghorbrani's second in command!" Onyx shouts out. "One of his former colleagues. They lead the charge."

"Their name."

"Hassan Zyani…"

Graves lowers the gun from the woman's head and immediately radios into Shepherd. "Now that wasn't so hard, was it?" he quipped. "Gold Eagle Actual, we've got a name. Ghorbrani's second in command, a Hassan Zyani. How copy?"

"Copy, Graves. Good hit,” Shepherd praises him. You watch Graves’ shoulders slack with relief, as though he’d been waiting to hear Shepherd say that to him. Which he most definitely had been. 

“I'll have Laswell look into this Hassan and see what she can find out about him,” the General continues. “He'll join the list of other names we've collected, but we'll keep a sharp eye on him ourselves. Sounds like he might be our next stop on the hunt."

"And hopefully the last," Graves says.

"Finish up there, we'll go over the next move when you get back. Nice work. Gold Eagle out."

"Rog'," Graves says. "It was a pleasure, as always, Gold Eagle. Shadow-1 out."

Graves shuts his comms off, and turns back to Onyx, who continues to kneel on the ground. "I told you what you wanted," Onyx says. "So where does-"

The commander cuts Onyx off with a bullet to the back of his wife's skull, as her body drops to the ground. Dead. You hear Onyx scream unlike anything he's let out the entire night.

Graves responds to this by putting a bullet in Onyx shortly after, shooting two more into his lifeless body as it slumped over, just for good measure.

And just like that, your mission was done.

"Whoo," Graves sighs. "Guy was really startin' to get on my fuckin' nerves."

"Him and his dumbass wife," Jeremy chimes in.

They all laugh, only you can't really bring yourself to join in. You're too focused on the two dead bodies lying a few feet from you, their lifeless forms lit by the headlights.

"Well, let's wrap this up here and get goin'," Graves says. "Canary, why don't you help Percy with this."

The sound of your callsign reminds you that you stood amongst these men at this moment. You stood there the entire time.

"Yes, sir."

You make your way over to the bodies, Percy grabbing hold of Onyx as you go for his wife. You take hold of her limp arms, trying not to look at her face too much. Though your eyes unintentionally drop to them from time to time.

Each time they did, you thought about her kid at home. Were they still hiding under that bed, you thought to yourself. Waiting and wondering. Wondering and waiting.

"Do you know what he was talking about?" Percy asks you suddenly. "About Al Mazrah? Was that a job or somethin'?"

You and Percy find a small lake, where you throw the bodies into it. If anyone finds them, it wouldn't matter at that point what was done about it. They would just be another death in the underbelly of some hidden crime ring drama, and your company but another whisper in the night. One more loose end taken care of.

"Ask Graves," you say.

"Yeah, 'cause I'll get an answer from him about it," Percy says sarcastically, before walking off. You watch the bodies submerge in the water, before they vanish deep into the black, liquid abyss below. Gone forever.

You thought of the kid once more. Scared under their bed. Thankful, despite other painful things stirring in you.

It would have been worse, had it not been you here. Both a blessing and a curse.

...Chapter Fourteen Here!

[bopinion]

2022 / 50

Aperçu of the Week:

"Having to go to school should be considered child labor."

(My 14-year-old son)

Bad News of the Week:

In a European country that is also a NATO member, the judiciary has sentenced a citizen to two years and seven months in prison for insulting public officials. Sound harsh? It is. Especially when the convicted man merely spoke of "fools" and did not address anyone personally. Even harder, however, is that the person also got a so-called "political ban". Especially because he is a politician. Stupidly from the opposition. Stupidly in Turkey.

Ekrem Imamoglu is the mayor of Istanbul, by far the largest city in Turkey, a vibrant metropolis located on two continents. He is accused of publicly insulting officials: he is said to have called those who "canceled the (municipal) elections (on March 31, 2019)" idiots. The bottom line is that he has thus denied non-partisanship to the officials. And is right in doing so. Because after two decades of the richly authoritative AKP rule under President Recep Erdogan, Turkey's state agencies, like the judiciary, have degenerated into lackeys.

And just like other critics such as Deniz Yükel, Osman Kavala, Canan Kaftancioglu or even Jan Böhmermann, Ekrem Imamoglu is now suffering the same fate. Anyone who doubts the ruler gets into trouble. Especially if he is considered a promising challenger to Erdogan in the upcoming elections in June 2023. Who obviously thinks little of the rule of law. You can also ask any Kurd. Or, more recently, any Swede or Finn. He denies the former any right to exist. And at least NATO membership for the latter, because he disagrees with their treatment of the - surprise! - Kurds. After all, they are basically terrorists.

But as I said, Turkey is a NATO member. For the U.S., therefore, it is a geopolitically indispensable partner. Because of its location on the southern Black Sea, which controls the access of Russian navy - not only Cuba fan Nikita Crushchov can sing a song about that. And for the EU also geopolitically an indispensable partner. Again, on the Bosphorus and the Dardanelles. In this case as the bridge of countless not only Syrian or Afghan refugees to Europe. As long as Erdogan protects the democracies of others, he may nip this same democracy in the bud in his own country. That is probably also politics. Without any ban at all.

Good News of the Week:

Political Brussels has been rocked by a scandal for a week now: there are allegations of corruption against members of the EU Parliament. And these are so massive that the investigation has led to house searches and even arrests in four cases. At the center is a vice president of the Parliament, the Greek Eva Kaili. Bags full of cash would have been found on her. The accusations are serious. They range from bribery and money laundering to participation in a criminal organization.

Corruption always involves two parties: the bribed party and the bribing party. The latter is allegedly the Gulf state of Qatar. Which is apparently not only willing to buy international sports organizations, but also political goodwill with key partner countries. And it seems fitting, after all, Kaili in particular has recently been a vocal advocate of visa-free travel for Qataris. Her lawyer has so far denied any corruption, but that is his job: "She has nothing to do with money flows from Qatar, nothing at all," and he is not allowed to comment on details.

The reactions at the European level came promptly. Still on the weekend, Kaili was deprived of all powers of the office by the President of the Parliament, the Maltese Roberta Metsola. Then she was expelled from her Greek Pasok party and also from the Socialist group in the European Parliament. And finally, the formal impeachment by the Parliament itself. Already on the second working day of the week! And with only one dissenting vote!

Mind you, the presumption of innocence also applies in Belgium until a legal conviction. And at the moment it seems that Kaili's partner Giorgi is the mastermind. But political hygiene demands action in the case of such serious accusations. Quickly and clearly. That is what happened. The U.S. Republicans, for example, could take a leaf out of their book.

But what also makes this case so unique is just that - its uniqueness. For background: the EU Parliament has existed since 1952, has 705 members from 27 countries in this legislative period, and is the only directly elected supranational institution in the world. And yet this is the first time that a scandal of this magnitude has happened. For me, this means two things: Europe is not a banana republic. And if it is, it knows how to fight back.

Personal happy moment of the week:

Just now the fireplace crackles für the first time this winter. Which pleases me in several ways. The never-ending fascination of the flames. The adorable scent that fills the whole house. The almost therapeutic warmth, which is incomparable. And it was a simple wish I could fulfill for my wife on her birthday.

I couldn't care less...

...about the publicly celebrated royal family therapy of "Harry & Meghan" - now also available as a streaming service. There's really nothing more to say about it.

As I write this...

...I am once again very much in agreement with a position taken by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. He had reacted "very disturbed" to the interim blocking of various journalists' accounts on Twitter by Elon Musk. The "arbitrary" move sets a "dangerous precedent" at a time when journalists around the world are facing "censorship, physical danger and even worse." Media should not be "silenced on a platform that declares itself a space for free speech." There is really nothing more to say about this either.

Post Scriptum

U.S. Republicans continue to work to lack respect for the rule of law. The latest highlight was delivered by Marjorie Taylor Greene at the New York Young Republican Club Gala, when she commented on the storming of the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, as follows: "I got to tell you something, if Steve Bannon and I had organized that, we would have won. Not to mention, it would've been armed." There was applause. That can only be called a loss of reality. In comparison, the digital trading cards in the style of superheroes of her idol Donald Trump, who considers himself "better than Lincoln, better than Washington," are merely a bad joke. But they also show that the true function of elected politicians - namely to be public servants - has not yet got around in these circles.

[kavala-online]

Top 5 Kavala Photographers

In the charming city of Kavala, where sea views meet centuries-old architecture, capturing life’s most beautiful moments with expert photography feels like a natural choice. With an eye for detail and a dedication to their craft, the five best Kavala photographers have earned their place among locals and visitors alike. Each brings a unique style, skillfully blending the vibrant colors and textures of Kavala into every shot. From intimate weddings and standout portraits to imaginative artistic shots, these Kavala photographers are here to elevate your memories.

Whether you’re seeking timeless elegance or a touch of creative flair, these photographers know how to capture what makes Kavala – and your moments in it – truly special. With them, you’re not just getting photos; you’re getting the essence of the city itself, preserved in every frame. And with their passion and local expertise, these Kavala photographers ensure that each shot tells a story you’ll treasure for years.

[kingsresort]

Exploring the Best Dandeli Resorts for a Tranquil Retreat — Kings Resort

Dandeli, where excitement and peace coexist among breathtaking Dandeli views. Travellers seeking a tranquil haven in the middle of the wild can find Dandeli which is tucked away in the heart of the Karnataka forest. Select us and embark on the serene and collected experience of Dandeli Resort for you.

Dandeli Resorts For That Dreamy Stay Amidst Woods

You will experience the friendly environment and warm welcome that distinguish Dandeli Resort on the way here. Every visitor will have a wonderful time at Dandeli Jungle Resort thanks to its tasteful combination of rustic luxuries and contemporary comforts. Every accommodation option is made to maximise your comfort and relaxation, from large apartments with expansive views of the surrounding environment to cosy cottages tucked away amid lush vegetation.

Relax on Perfect - Dandeli Swimming Pool Resorts

To cool down from the heat, take a plunge in the pool and relax amidst lush vegetation and peaceful surroundings. Whether you're relaxing by the pool with a cool drink in hand or swimming in the Dandeli beauties, Dandeli Swimming Pool Resorts it's the perfect place to unwind after a hard day. Enjoy the beauty of nature and let your worries melt away in the peaceful surroundings and peaceful streams.

Come to Dandeli Jungle Resort and have some fun outdoors.

King's Resort Dandeli offers a variety of thrilling wilderness adventures for those looking for an adrenaline rush. Take a guided stroll in the forest to see the amazing beauty and unusual wildlife that surround you. Our Dandeli resort guarantees an amazing experience for thrill-seekers of all ages, offering everything from exhilarating river cruises to heart-pounding jungle excursions.

Customised experiences for every guest: Dandeli Resort Packages

At Kings Resort Dandeli, we understand that every travellers is different, so we offer the best Dandeli Resort Packages to suit your preferences. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure seeker, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, their packages ensure an unforgettable stay. From guided nature walks to bird watching to exciting water sports and rejuvenating spa treatments, there is something for everyone at Dandeli Resorts.

Explore the wonders of Dandeli: must-visit tourist attractions

Take a seat outside the resort and discover the breathtaking beauty of Dandeli’s top tourist attractions. Marvel at the breathtaking Milk Sea Falls, explore the ancient caves at Kavala, or take a wildlife safari through the dense forests of Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary Whether for adventure, peace or intimacy or romance that you have for nature, all at Dandeli Resort Makes the perfect base from which to explore all the offerings.

Peace Sanctuary: Kings Resort Dandeli

In summary, exploring Dandeli's peace and natural beauty like the day, is what Resort Dandeli Resort encourages you to do. Offering sumptuous lodging, captivating excursions, and customised experiences, the resort ensures that each visitor has an exceptional vacation. In order to experience the peace and quiet of Dandeli—pack your bags, leave the bustle of the city, and settle in. 

[highresolutionevents]

High Resolution Events: Cosmolights 2020 Projection Mapping in Kavala Gr...

🌟 Step into a world where imagination meets technology! 🚀 Join us as we relive the breathtaking opening of the Cosmolights 2020 Projection Mapping Competition, held in the picturesque city of Kavala, Greece, on Saturday, August 28, 2020.

🎥 Immerse yourself in the magic of light and creativity as artists from around the globe unveil their stunning projection mapping masterpieces against the stunning backdrop of Kavala. This event was a celebration of innovation, pushing the boundaries of art to create a symphony of visuals that left spectators in awe.

🌐 Event Date: Saturday, August 28, 2020

📍 Location: Kavala, Greece

🔥 Relive the excitement, the anticipation, and the sheer brilliance of the opening night! 🌈 Our video captures the essence of Cosmolights 2020, showcasing the convergence of ancient charm and cutting-edge technology in a visual feast for the senses.

👁‍🗨 Don't miss the chance to witness the fusion of art and technology that made Cosmolights 2020 a truly unforgettable experience. Hit play, subscribe, and take a front-row seat to the mesmerizing world of projection mapping artistry.

🎇 Cosmolights 2020 – A Spectacle Beyond Imagination!

#Cosmolights2020 #ProjectionMapping #KavalaGreece #ArtandTechnology #VisualSpectacle #ImaginationUnleashed #EventHighlights #SubscribeNow #DazzlingBeginnings

[aristippos-stars-aka-maiandr0s]

Inside the Halil bey mosque (the locals call it "Palia Mousiki" - literally "Old Music"). Under the glass floor, you can see the ruins of the byzantine church of Aghia Paraskevi. Kavala city, Macedonia, Greece (2012),

[dandeliresorts1]

What places can we visit in Dandeli?

Dandeli is a city in the Uttara Kannada locale of the Indian territory of Karnataka. This spot is arranged in the Western Ghats of India.  Dandeli is popular for its extensive teak plantation.

If you still want to enjoy a solo trip, trip with friends or a family vacation with amazing nature, Dandeli is the best place to visit for a weekend.

Dandeli is an ideal decision if you have any desire to appreciate with companions or family or family then Dandeli has the Best Resorts in Dandeli like River Edge Resort, Dewdrops Wilderness Resort, Tusker Trails Resort, Wild Ringer Resort, Top Dandeli Jungle Resorts and some more. You should call them for Best Dandeli Resorts booking or Dandeli Resorts bundle booking.

Satisfied by going better places to encounter once in a blue moon daring games, social rapture, picturesque widely varied vegetation and some nature walks? Spots to visit in Dandeli in North Karnataka call you to offer an ideal blend of water experience sports, spiritualist widely varied vegetation, energetic customs and quiet nature strolls which will provide you with a definitive true serenity, across the board place. Dandeli is one the most visited places of interest out of the wide reach presented by Indian The travel industry to the voyagers. A good ways off of only hours from Goa, Dandeli is an astonishing departure from the commonplace city life for some time. So conclude a date, assemble your companions or family and gather your packs as we have recorded down probably the best places to see in Dandeli for an hassle-free outing. Get ready to roll!

places can we visit in Dandeli

River Kali

Kayaking, wilderness boating, paddling and a lot more water experience sports in Dandeli are presented by the strong Kali stream draws in an immense number of experience searchers consistently. Not such no joking matter for a tropical area, however stream boating never loses its appeal. For this reason Kali waterway has become one of the most encouraging Dandeli spots to visit. Visit the strong waterway on your outing to Dandeli and fortify your bond with nature.

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Glorious enough to give shelter to an amazing range of flora and fauna, Dandeli natural life safe-haven is one more can't miss vacationer places in Dandeli. With the launch of different camps and resorts in Dandeli inside the safe-haven, the spot has begun drawing in countless nature darlings and travelers over time. An outing to Dandeli is absolutely fragmented without visiting the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. Within the sanctuary, a variety of exciting activities like trekking, safari tours, coracle boat rides, mountain biking, ecotourism, and cycling are easily accessible.

Shiroli Peak

Shiroli Peak, thought to be the highest peak in the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, is a must-see on any Dandeli itinerary. Shiroli Pinnacle serves in numerous ways to the explorers. In the first place, they go about as trip courses because of the height of the spot. Second, they empower the travelers to observe superb dusks and last however not the least, Shiroli Peak the voyagers from the country over to see and sink in the magnificence of the broadly spread Western Ghats. Shiroli Peak is a great spot for adventurers as well as nature and photography enthusiasts. It has the absolute most astonishing activities in Dandeli.

Sykes Point

Adding to the rundown of abundant touring places in Dandeli, Sykes Point is one more entrancing objective in the Dandeli places of interest. Situated on one of the most lovely slope stations in Karnataka, Sykes Point is popular for the delightful and hypnotizing perspectives on the quietly streaming Waterway Kali for as may be obvious. Likewise, the fact of the matter is an optimal area for bird watchers. Sink in the serenity of this strange yet lovely spot. From the hilltop, take in the breathtaking sunsets and thick, green valleys.

Kavala Caves

Prepare so that some trip down 375 stages could see the age back Shivlinga formed by a few volcanic exercises in the outlandish Kavala Caverns. Visited by explorers from everywhere the nation, particularly on events like Shiv Ratri, Kavala Caverns likewise welcome nature sweethearts and photography oddities to observe a sensational making of nature. From 40 feet below, River Kali slowly enters the caves. Kavala caves is a strange yet significant put on the rundown of spots to visit in Dandeli for 1 day.

Sathodi Falls

Sathodi Falls is another one of the best places near Dandeli on our list. The new mountain air and the all encompassing perspective on the water flowing from an incredible level make Sathodi Falls a final location for individuals who need to encounter a tranquil and profound escape from the turbulent city life. The despairing of the everyday schedules vanishes on arranging a one day outing at the radiant Sathodi falls. In any case, Sathodi falls turns into a notable fascination among the popular activities in Dandeli and is perhaps of the most tranquil cascade close to Bangalore in Karnataka.

[parulayurvedhospital]

Top Ayurvedic Tips To Look After Oral Health

In the vibrant city of Vadodara, where modernity and tradition harmoniously coexist, the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda finds a significant place in promoting holistic well-being. In the search for wholesome health, the role of oral hygiene cannot be overstated. Fortunately, Ayurveda, with its time-tested principles, offers a treasure trove of remedies for maintaining excellent oral health. 

Oil Pulling:

One of the most celebrated Ayurvedic practices for oral health is oil pulling. This ancient technique includes gushing sesame or coconut oil inside your mouth for 15-20 minutes, ideally in the morning, on an empty stomach. The process helps remove toxins from the mouth, prevents plaque formation, and strengthens the gums. Regular oil pulling can also contribute to the reduction of bad breath and promote overall oral hygiene.

Herbal Toothpaste:

Ayurvedic wisdom advocates the use of herbal toothpaste made from natural ingredients like neem, clove, and babool. Unlike commercial toothpaste that may contain harsh chemicals, Ayurvedic toothpaste is gentle on the gums while effectively fighting bacteria. Neem, with its antibacterial properties, helps combat germs, while clove provides relief from toothache and gum pain. Babool, on the other hand, strengthens the gums and prevents bleeding.

Tongue Scraping:

In Ayurveda, tongue scraping is considered an essential part of oral hygiene. The tongue harbours a considerable amount of bacteria, toxins, and debris. Using a copper or stainless-steel tongue scraper, gently clean the tongue surface every morning. This practice not only removes the accumulated toxins but also stimulates the digestive system, contributing to overall well-being.

Ayurvedic Diet for Oral Health:

According to Ayurveda, maintaining a balance in your doshas is crucial for overall health, including oral health. Include vitamins and minerals rich in whole grains in your diet. Additionally, chewing on natural astringents like guava leaves or neem sticks can help strengthen gums and prevent infections.

Gandusha and Kavala:

Gandusha involves holding a specific amount of medicated liquid, such as warm sesame oil or herbal decoctions, in the mouth without moving it. Kavala, on the other hand, is a gargling technique where the liquid is moved within the mouth. Both practices are effective in reducing bacteria, preventing cavities, and promoting healthy teeth and gums. Integrating these techniques into your everyday routine can significantly contribute to oral well-being.

Triphala Mouthwash:

Triphala, a traditional Ayurvedic formulation comprising three fruits – amalaki, bibhitaki, and haritaki – is known for its cleansing and antioxidant properties. Prepare a mouthwash by steeping Triphala powder in warm water and using it as a gargle. This natural mouthwash not only freshens breath but also helps in maintaining oral hygiene.

Mindful Eating Practices:

Ayurveda concentrates on the importance of mindful eating for digestive and oral health. Chewing your food thoroughly allows saliva to mix with the food, initiating the digestive process and preventing the accumulation of undigested particles in the oral cavity. This simple practice can contribute to better oral hygiene and overall well-being.

In the heart of Vadodara, where the essence of Ayurveda enriches the daily lives of its residents, taking a holistic approach to oral health is paramount. The Ayurvedic doctor in Vadodara would undoubtedly endorse the ancient wisdom that has stood the test of time. By incorporating practices such as oil pulling, herbal toothpaste, tongue scraping, and mindful eating into your daily routine, you can nurture your oral health naturally. 

The principles of Ayurveda offer a holistic and preventive approach to oral care, promoting not just a healthy smile but overall well-being. Embrace these Ayurvedic tips, and let the ancient wisdom guide you towards optimal oral health in the modern world.

[notwiselybuttoowell]

In Greece, a shepherd who tried to save his animals was found dead as a fire raged near Boeotia, about 60 miles (100km) north of Athens. People on a beach and in two communities near the blaze were ordered to evacuate, AFP reported.

Another wildfire broke out on the island of Evia on Monday and at least four more were raging in north-eastern Greece in the regions of Rodopi and Kavala, Aspropyrgos west of Athens, and north-east Greece near the port city of Alexandroupolis, where 13 communities were evacuated over the weekend.

The EU said it was deploying two Cyprus-based firefighting aircraft and a Romanian firefighting team via the bloc’s civil protection mechanism amid what it called “by far Greece’s worst summer” for wildfires since 2008.

Civil protection authorities warned of an “exceptional” fire risk in the region around Athens and other parts of southern Greece. “We are facing extreme phenomena,” a fire service spokesperson said, urging people to follow authorities’ instructions.

In Spain, the state weather agency, Aemet, has placed five provinces in the southern region of Andalucía on amber heat alert, warning that temperatures are forecast to rise to more than 40C around Seville, Córdoba and in the Guadalquivir valley.

In the Canary Islands, 600 firefighters were making progress, however, battling an out-of-control blaze on Tenerife that was started deliberately and has forced more than 12,000 people to flee their homes and burned through more than 12,800 hectares (31,600 acres) of land, about 6.5% of Tenerife’s surface area. Spain has suffered 340 fires so far this year, which have ravaged almost 76,000 hectares, EU figures show.

In France, record temperatures of more than 42.5C were recorded along the Rhône valley and at several other south-eastern weather stations, with the mercury set to rise further on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Fifty of the country’s 96 mainland departments were on amber heat alerts, with some expected to be placed on a maximum red warning over the next few days.

After weeks of dry weather, local authorities in Gard département restricted access to forests due to the high risks of fires, while firefighters were battling a blaze near the village of Chanousse in the south-east that had so far consumed about 120 hectares (296 acres) of forest.

[a-world-with0ut-dr34ms]

Betty et Zorg

From Control - Full Story in Progress on AO3!

Soap x Reader, hints of Ghost x Reader x Graves

Soap seems adamant to make sure you have a goodnight, regardless of how much you try and turn him away. Meanwhile, Ghost's thoughts on you start to take a sudden shift, as he grows more suspicious of your transfer to the team...

Tags: Fluff, Angst, Slow Burn, Flirting, Banter, Trying to write like a corny romance a little, gets a bit steamy by the end, no smut though, ends with a steamy make-out session, Graves is your ex, Soap is a gentleman, Ghost is longing, reader is sad

A/N: This is basically the reader had a little emotional event happen to them and Soap's there to cheer them up. Just some fluff that gets a little steamy by the end. I almost made it smut but I had to restrain myself (for the slow burn). (｀∀´)Ψ

Word Count: 6.5k

Masterlist

The cold night air wisps over you, as you stand a ways off from the café. Your phone's clasped in your hands so tightly that you couldn't tell if they were shaking from that or the cool breeze itself. Though your mind races too much for you to care about it.

Your breathing has settled down more since your sudden departure from inside; it's the only thing you've felt able to control anymore. With that calmed, it provides you a moment to yourself to ease your racing mind, which was still processing what had happened.

Now that you were away, frankly, you couldn't even believe it.

For a moment there, you thought you were back in Kavala, inside that apartment again. You could still hear the shouts from Onyx, along with the cries from his wife, and your own team shouting orders out over the chaos. Every negative emotion that coursed through you in that moment came flooding back like a busted dam, its crashing waves constraining you, leaving you frozen.

You've been having nightmares about it lately, sure. Shitty sleep was always something you've been prone to, though you'd hoped for these dreams to just be some sort of phase, like everything else. Instead they've only manifested into what happened tonight -- something worse, something new to you completely.

And you hardly recognize yourself anymore.

Unsure of what to do, you open up your contact list and begin to scroll, until your eyes settle on a name that kept popping back into your mind all night -- Phillip.

You haven't heard from Graves since you transferred over. Not that you blame him; you haven't exactly made any attempts to reach out to him either. The way you two left things off certainly left a lot to be desired.

Yet despite everything, you weren't sure who else to talk to anymore; you'd gotten used to having him around to bend his ear about things. And you may not be sleeping together anymore, but you liked to believe some modicum of care between you two still existed. It did for you, at least.

You dial your commander's number in almost instinctively. And as you expected, you listened to the other end ring, and ring, and ring.

And ring.

Until you're finally greeted by the answering machine.

"Please leave a message after the tone."

Your phone lets out a resounding beep, and you hesitate to speak, letting the seconds you had to leave a message dwindle by. Debating whether or not this was even a good idea from the start.

Who's to say Graves even wanted to talk to you anymore? And who's to say you would have even been honest with him about tonight at all, had he gone around and actually answered your call.

"Hey uh..." You hug your arms together, keeping your phone pressed between your cheek and shoulder, as your back leaned against the café wall. Light gray clouds were beginning to break in the night sky above, the moonlight casting over the city streets, as the passing cars fly by. With the sky opening up, you see an array of stars not yet drowned out by the city's pollution. Your eyes bounce between them, thinking of your words in their glow.

"It's Y/N," you finally start. "I know it's been a little while... and it's pretty late, but I was just calling to see if you were up and maybe wanted to talk for a bit. I'm sure you're all doing fine without me there now, but... I was just hoping... well, I... I miss-"

Beep!

The message ends before you can finish that thought. A small part of you wishes you hadn't started it at all.

You slip your phone back in your pocket, before wrapping your arms around yourself again. The café doors open next to you, having been doing so on occasion since you'd stepped out. You paid no mind to it now, much like you had been doing already. However...

"Canary?"

...You hadn't expected Soap to be the one to emerge from the café next. You didn't look forward to having to explain yourself to your new teammate about your little episode. You were really hoping they wouldn't follow you out to begin with.

However, you should have known Soap never would have let someone in his team storm out like that without saying something. That's just not the kind of guy he is.

Soap approaches you, though he halts when he sees his sudden appearance cause you to recoil. So instead, the Sergeant settles with standing some feet away, wearing a patient smile.

"Are you OK?" he asked. His voice was much softer than you've heard it before. Almost worried. Like a child afraid to offend you. Soap showed you genuine concern, and hearing it in his voice only made you feel all the more embarrassed.

"Yeah, I'm just peachy, Soap. I-..." you shuffle about a bit in your stance, trying to straighten yourself out and keep things short. "I'm probably just going to walk back home actually..."

Bringing yourself to actually look over at the man felt a tireless battle to win. The passing cars feel far easier to gaze at, though it mattered not where you looked, the lump in your throat just wouldn't rid itself.

Two nights. Two nights in a row now that someone in the Task Force has seen you so unprofessional and out of sorts. And twice has it happened now where one of them has felt obligated to check in on you after. Concerned for you even. Pitying you.

Humiliated didn't even begin to describe what you felt right now.

"I'm sorry..." you voice is damn near a raspy whisper. You let out a defeated chuckle. "This is all just really stupid, honestly. I'm just... being stupid."

Soap chuckles. "No you're not."

You almost say something mean to him, more of a guarded reflex than anything with meaning. However, you bite your tongue, knowing he didn't deserve to be the conduit to your flurry of emotions. Soap wasn't trying to overstep by any means, it wouldn't make sense to be upset that he's concerned for your wellbeing.

So you say nothing instead. That's always been easy enough to do.

You're quiet for a notable while, not sure as to how to reply to him. It's not every day you feel this way; For all the Task Force knows though, this is just who you are. Great...

Only this wasn't you. Not at all. You've never been this sad all the time before. Never been someone to dissociate into a bad memory and relive the negative moments. And you would never enjoy having the others take pity on you, nor see you struggle not to cry. This was never you, until now, and the same fears start to circle in your mind. Fears you've recently developed.

Was this the slow decline of yourself that you were too late to stop?

Soap's voice came unexpectedly over the background noise and your own screaming thoughts.

"If you don't want to talk about it, you don't have to," he said. "I just wanted to make sure you were OK. Or if you needed anything, or..."

His words begin to trail when he notices the sudden sorrow strike your face. It breaks your heart to hear him say that for some reason, as guilt suddenly consumes you. Guilt for all your inabilities beside your comrades. Guilt for feeling this way. It tugs tears from you, which you quickly wipe away, before turning your face from Soap altogether.

This in turn only made the Scotsman begin to panic, who was now raising his hands up defensively and bumbling over his words. "Ah!" Soap gasps. "I didn't mean-"

"I'm sorry," you clear your throat and aggressively wipe your tears away now. "Just ignore me, I'm being a drama queen... I'm sorry..."

Soap laughs to himself suddenly, respectfully so. "You don't have to say sorry, ya dafty."

You suck your nose in. "But I am..." 

"You're daft?" Soap teases now.

"No," You turn your head to him, wide-eyed with tears still brimming at the corners, your lips pouting childishly. You pick up on the Sergeant's quizzical nature the moment your eyes meet again. "I was sorry..."

"Well..." Soap thinks for a second, though it's not a long one. "I forgive you."

You smack your lips together, almost as though you had expected him to say something like that. Which you did. Of course he would. And of course it only made you feel more emotional. Though this time you've figured out how to bottle it in, keeping quiet.

"Well hey," Soap announces, an idea having come to the man, guessing by the way his stormy eyes and cheeky smile suddenly lit up. "How 'bout we walk back home together, then."

He's persistent, you'll give him that. The more he pushes, the more you feel yourself closer to succumbing to him. As much as you'd like to believe you'd rather be alone right now, you both knew that wasn't true. In fact, it couldn't be further from the truth.

Soap seems to have a better read on you than you'd thought.

"What about Ghost?" you ask. Lord knows what he must be thinking right now, sitting by himself inside, waiting. It was Ghost who saw the whole thing in the first place too. You doubted he wanted to be anywhere near you, honestly.

Soap chuckles however. "He'll come too, of course," he says. "Not to disappoint you. I know you'd rather me all to yourself, but alas, we'll just have to save the one-on-one for another night."

And then he winks at you.

You let out a little laugh beneath your breath, covering your mouth with your hand daintily. It warms Soap to see it; seeing your smile had been his goal the minute he stepped outside and saw you still here. And he always was a natural at lifting up moods.

"You don't have to do that," you say, still allowing the man to step back if he wished.

"I want to," he says. The certainty behind his words makes your heart unknowingly skip a beat.

"Are you sure?" you ask him one more time. "If you two want to enjoy the night still, please do. I'm a responsible adult, I think I can make it back safely."

"Eh, don't worry about it," his smile softens. "The night wouldn't feel the same without you anyway."

Eventually, you allow yourself to really look at Soap. He's kept his distance this entire time, not wanting to approach where he had not yet been invited. His hands sit casually in his pockets, and he waits obediently.

You two stand in a neutral silence, gazes matched with one another. His eyes are hearty and magnetic, compared to your tired and guarded stare.

"Well, then," you sigh. "OK."

Soap's smile grows. "OK?"

"OK," you reaffirm, laughing this time. Yes, you thought. This is OK.

Soap laughs victoriously, only then to spread his arms out and finally start closing the distance between you too, happily. "Now come here."

Before you've any time to protest, Soap's wrapped you in a large hug, holding you tightly in his arms. It's so strong it makes you take a step back and grunt dorkishly, but you reciprocate it, laughing into his shoulder. He rubs his hand over your back comfortingly, his joyous chuckle vibrating against you. "Cheer up now," he says. "You'll be alright."

You place your head against his chest, letting your ear sink into him, as you follow along to the steady rhythm of his heart beat. It races within him. Had he been nervous?

"OK."

...

The barracks were maybe a short ways away now, another five or ten minutes to this nightly stroll before it was officially over. Ghost had been counting every minute of it too.

The sidewalk begins to narrow again, Ghost taking his natural space in the back of the trio, as you and Soap stand beside one another, lost in the little world you two had created in the past hour.

Now that he was away from the city and walking down less populated roads, the night around them began to still. The sound of vehicles grew more distant and outside chatter was replaced with their own boots and shoes against the pavement. With it so late, many of the house's lights were off, the neighborhoods having left your group alone for the remainder of the night.

It left Ghost with nothing else to listen to besides you two.

The first thing Soap did when he re-emerged from the café with Ghost, was hand you a new drink. Exactly what you'd ordered before. "Since the last one spilled," he'd said.

Your eyes lit up like diamonds as you took the drink from his hand, taking a sip and letting out a jokingly pleasurable moan. You almost looked like you were going to cry too. But you smile, and thank him profusely.

Johnny had you pretty much reeled in after that.

For how prepared the Sergeant had been for the sudden detour, Ghost would think Soap almost planned the night out for this to happen. Though he knew that wasn't true. Soap wasn't that methodical. Everything he's done tonight -- coming to check on you, buying you a drink, walking you home -- That had all been Johnny's own doing.

Watching you two was like watching two puzzle pieces come together. All night you've been gabbing on with each other, going back and forth and every which way with your conversations. If Soap were to turn to Ghost and reveal that you were in fact some woman from his past who knew him personally, he may have actually believed it.

And while you two had made attempts to include Ghost in the conversation, the lieutenant eventually fell silent after a short while. It wasn't out of a sudden shyness or defeat however, but rather he felt best with just not talking. Eventually, your conversation drifted your minds away from him, and he was given a moment to himself.

He would make no complaints of this of course. There was a lot he had on his mind in the meantime. Specifically about you.

After you stormed out of the café, Ghost hadn't expected to see you again for the rest of the night. He wouldn't have blamed you either, though he couldn't stop thinking about what that could have been about. He's seen fear in many people's eyes before, but never in yours. While the fear itself looked familiar enough to him, it looked foreign on you.

And it had unsettled him, mostly due to his own inaction. It was very unlike him to just stand to the side like that, he thought. Yet at that moment, he hadn't been sure of quite what to say or do. He felt that way a lot around you.

Which was his problem exactly.

With your eyes away from him, Ghost felt more ready to study you, finally pinning down all these thoughts he had surrounding you. He began thinking he was onto something too.

As a silent observer, Ghost watched the way you interacted with Soap, and how easily you found a way to make him so comfortable with you in a matter of hours. You smile and you laugh, your eyes linger when given the opportunity, you talk, and then you listen. Observing. Adapting.

You let your kind nature lull those around you into a state of comfort, and use that to get close. Ghost knew this performance well enough now, because it's exactly how you had been with him. He didn't need to see it a third time to have it down. 

Your performance was truly something too, because Ghost was seeing sides of Johnny he had been too afraid to delve deeper into himself.

Granted, Ghost learns something new about Soap every day, mostly involuntarily. They've been on a team a few months shy of a whole year now, and while the lieutenant feels that realistically he's spent an equal amount of time with everyone in the Task Force, somehow or another, Ghost found himself assigned with Soap more often than not.

And what he learned about Johnny every day was that the man was truly unafraid of himself, both in perception and within. Soap didn't struggle with deep inner turmoil, there were no demons he need bury deep. None that Ghost could see in him.

Johnny was just human in every way that Ghost struggled to be.

So the minute you had managed to pull Soap in with that natural allure of yours, it's no surprise the man let that be known as well. Soap wears his emotions on his sleeve.

Ghost hadn't even asked him how the conversation went with you once he'd come back into the café. He only need see the way he barged through the doors, his smile gleaming and his step skipped, for Ghost to know the conversation went well. What had got to the lieutenant about that however, was how he knew exactly what it was Johnny was feeling too.

Desire.

Exactly as he had felt before.

Only unlike Ghost, who had been unable to allow himself a moment to enjoy that feeling you provide so carelessly, Soap seemed more than willing the dive in head first. He hadn't a fear in the world about it.

Thus Simon has watched Soap do everything Ghost couldn't do the night before -- actually allow himself the chance to be vulnerable. And as if to punish him for it, now he gets to see for himself where that road would have taken him, had he actually stayed with you that night, instead of leaving like a dog with his tail tucked between his legs.

Suddenly, it had twisted his insides to think about. Had it been that easy all along? To let someone in...

Never has a woman haunted his mind like this before.

It hadn't taken much longer for these thoughts of his to grow into suspicion and distrust, however. There was no way you could be real. That these feelings you draw from them so easily are real.

Laswell gets a lead on a possible new hit, and suddenly they place you on the team. Someone who's only worked one other mission with them before. And someone interested in getting close to them personally. Seemingly for no reason. Someone who's good at it too.

It couldn't be a coincidence someone like you has come along. It never is.

You come across a small park on your walk back, passing by a large water fountain, which draws both you and Soap's attention suddenly. The lights from inside the fountain make the clear water look a pretty teal color, revealing all the loose change dropped into the water by other who'd passed by before.

It's around this point that you finished your drink. The minute your eyes went to look for a garbage can, Soap was already on it, having confiscated the empty cup for you and wandering off with it to the nearest available garbage can, that was a short walk deeper into the park.

"Want us to follow you?" you asked.

"Nah, just wait here," Soap said. "I won't be long."

And like that, he had walked off, leaving you and Ghost alone by the fountain.

You lean over the fountain ledge, staring down into the water, as its glow shimmers off your skin in the night. You hadn't turned to look at Ghost yet, not since Soap has left. You hadn't really looked at him much at all since you left the café.

Your back was still turned to him when you spoke suddenly. "Care to make a wish?"

Ghost stayed a few feet behind you, his arms crossed in front of him as he stared into the water from a distance. "I've no need," he said plainly.

"Really?" he can hear your smile in your voice. "There's nothing you wish for?"

Ghost toys with that question in his mind for a moment. He's never been one to make wishes, never wanting to bank good fortune and material gain on something so unguaranteed. Wishes often were just empty words meant to disappoint you later. He learned that at a young age. "Do you have many wishes?" he asks instead.

"Some," you say. "Mostly small things."

"Like what?"

You turn to Ghost for the first time all night, and you smile playfully. "If I told you, then it wouldn't come true."

Ghost watches you dig in your pocket, before retrieving a quarter. You stare at the coin for a short while, thumbing it between your fingers as you thought to yourself innocently. You look back to the fountain once a wish has finally come to you.

The coin flicks from your thumb, and you both watch the quarter twirl into the water, before sinking all the way to the bottom. You watch it the whole way down. For some reason, Ghost sees your expression fall again. Sadly.

It's something he's picked up about you, how sad you are. And he knows it's not an act, because you cover it up any chance you can get. Your sorrow is the one part of you that conflicts him the most. If everything's an act -- your kindness, your words, your smile, your eyes -- then your tears have been the one true thing Ghost has consistently seen of you, and the reason for his hesitancy to trust you. Because Goddamn you, your sorrow beckons him too.

"You made your wish then?" Ghost asked.

"I did," you nod, though had Ghost not been looking your way he may have missed it.

"Think it'll come true?" he asked.

"No," you admit. You then laugh to yourself, a memory having popped into your mind suddenly. "It's funny though. When I was a kid, I used to make wishes all the time. I'd stay up until the clock hit 11:11 to make a wish, and every night I'd look out my window hoping to finally see a shooting star, like in the movies. When that didn't happen, I just used the airplanes instead."

Ghost imagined the kind of childhood you must have had, which had you making wishes all the time. What life you lived before now. You had told him once that this line of work hadn't been your first choice. If that truly is the case, he can't imagine how you even manage to keep your sanity in this field.

Is that why you cry so much? He wondered.

"I used to get so upset when my wishes wouldn't come true," you continue. "I wanted them to be real so bad. But they never were."

"Yet you still make wishes now," Ghost says.

"I can't help myself," you sigh. "I mean, there's always a chance, right?"

"Blind hope can be dangerous."

"Hope is never a bad thing, not to me," you say. "If I couldn't hope then... what would be the point?"

Your head turns when you hear Soap making his way back over. The fact that he was out of breath with his hands on his hips meant he'd tried to reach that trash can as fast as he could. It makes you giggle and tease the man when you see him, and Soap only plays into your giddy nature, acting as nonchalantly as he'd been all night.

And Ghost watched from the sidelines, this time trying to picture a world where he could be more like you two. A world where he wasn't so taciturn. Where when you touched him he did not flinch, and when you called to him he did not push back. Maybe watching could be enough, but he knows the minute you both go, it wouldn't suffice.

So he'll take what he can now.

Ghost digs in his pocket, finding an old penny that wasn't going to be of use to anyone. He waits to see you two not looking his way before flicking the penny into the fountain himself, watching it fall in.

He guesses he had one wish after all.

Maybe he could be wrong about you. He only wishes...

...

You stop at your doorway, punching in the number keys to your door code slowly. The whole time you do so, Soap's presence can be felt a few feet behind you, waiting innocently, as though to make sure you make it inside safely. Him being here did bring you comfort. It also made this hallway feel incredibly small.

The walk back had been only about thirty minutes, though the time blew by rather fast with how much of it you spent talking. You could tell Ghost had probably been exhausted by it, because he couldn't have made a faster beeline to his room the second you all finally reached the barracks. Which for once, was OK with you.

The lock on your door beeps, the latch whining unlocked. You turn to face Soap, finding the man standing off rather shyly. It's when your eyes finally meet his again that his smile raises.

In the hallway lighting, all his little details appeared more clearly. You like the way the Sergeant wears his joy on his face, letting it lift him upright and perk his ears with them, bringing a twinkle to his cloudy blue eyes. His emotions easy to read. It's what made talking to him feel so easy, without even having known him for long. It makes you think to yourself what a breath of fresh air John is.

It also gnawed at your mind what other sides of him there were you've yet to see. What bits you could pull out next, and what old bits he could pull out of you as well. The thought was as intriguing as it also put your head through a twister you've yet to be familiar with.

A man who has no guessing games to play. A man who is who he is, which happens to be everything you needed tonight.

"Thank you," you say casually, giving the man a welcoming smile. Though Soap's own does more to pull you in this time. "For walking back with me."

Soap blows raspberries and shrugs, trying to act more nonchalant than his eyes could match with. "I'd never pass up the chance to have a midnight stroll with such a lovely woman."

Maybe it was late at night, or maybe you felt comfortable enough to do so; you don't hide your blushing, nor the delicate giggle bubbling from your throat soon after.

"You flatter me," you say.

Soap looks to you charmingly. "I'm trying."

"You're so good at it too; it makes me feel bad," you say. "I haven't paid you much flattery tonight myself."

"The night's not over yet," Soap says.

Your eyes grow wolfish, his words taking a double meaning to you. "Indeed, it isn't."

"Go on then," he says, his voice a lot lower than before. Seductive even. It comes to you in a wave, rushing through your body and sending a chill down your spine. You have to keep yourself from swallowing. Soap only intensifies the chills running through you by licking his lips and smirking to himself. "Say something nice about me."

"Now," you cross your arms, taking a step forward so you were standing right in front of the Sergeant. "A lady shouldn't reveal her secrets so freely."

Soap only seems to straighten up, giving himself more height over you as his smile becomes something more sly. "Even if I ask nicely?"

"I already said before, it takes a lot more than asking me nicely to get to know me."

"What does it take then?" he asks you.

"Something more… wicked. Filthy."

"That’s not very ladylike of you, Canary."

"I'm only ladylike when the need arises," you tease. "What about you John? Are you always a gentleman?"

"Usually," he admits. "I can be anything you ask me."

Soap's eyes take a small shift, turning more from its innocent appearance to something a bit more cocky. There wasn't a doubt in his tone, nor a lie spoken in his words. He'd rather his bravado be known. And damn did you like the introduction to it.

You unknowingly drop your eyes to his lips, observing how his mouth sits, as your tongue glides over your own provocatively. "Anything?"

His lips sit slightly pursed, as though more thoughts sat at the tip of his tongue. The flow of his steady breathing brushes the tip of your nose, blue eyes glazed with a growing lust you have yet to see in the Sergeant. "Anything."

“Well the night’s not over yet now, is it?”

“Aye, it isn’t.”

Now his eyes have dropped to your lips, watching how your tongue lightly glides over yours. It's got the man heating up, his cheeks beginning to blush unabashedly. You're not even sure that he notices himself leaning closer. You didn't notice yourself until you could feel his breath feather over your recently dampened lips.

Suddenly you’re damn near on your toes, his nose a few inches from yours, and his mouth the closest it’s ever been to your own. You were already guessing what they might feel like against yours. You imagined they'd be soft, warm, experienced.

"Johnny, Johnny, Johnny," you hum. "What a flirt you are."

"I imagine I'm in good company."

"You be careful," you lift a hand to pluck a stray piece of hair peeking from his shoulder. An excuse to touch him, however faintly. "Games like that might get you in trouble."

This time Soap takes the chance to touch you, lifting his hand up to capture yours before it can retreat back to your side. "I like trouble," he says. "That's what makes the job fun, no?"

His hand is warm, and not nearly as coarse as you would have guessed. His hold is both tender and secure, lingering for a few seconds, all the while you two breathe in each other’s air, your eyes never having strayed from one another’s.

All there was left to do now was take one step closer; take your other hand and wrap it over his neck, pull him in for a change. Seems all night that Soap’s been the one bringing you in slowly, sneakily. Unlike Graves, who had pursued you like the wolf he was, Soap’s pursuit had been like that of a fox -- clever and playful. It crept up on you without even noticing, and done so innocently. It begged a sweeter side of you that you’ve forgotten had been capable.

Suddenly, it didn’t feel so hard being vulnerable. At least for right now. For tonight.

He only needed to come a little closer now. Take his hand and cup it against your face, bring you forth to him and take you.

“Ooooooo~”

A few soldiers down the hall start to whistle and cheer at you, walking by and clapping. You and Soap take a step back and awkwardly, waving the other soldiers away as they start throwing comments your way, clearly having pre-gamed before heading to whatever outing they were walking to.

“Get it, girl!” one of the female soldiers in the group cheered.

“Get a room!” another laughed.

“This is my room!” you say.

The group cheers for you on their way out; you and Soap can’t help but laugh with one another, the atmosphere having shifted into this awkward in-between now. Damn. Way to kill the mood. Despite the interruption, your heart still thumped in your chest with excitement. You still kind of wanted to kiss him.

Your phone starts to buzz in your pocket suddenly. A phone call. Graves maybe?

You bring your eyes back up to Soap, prepared to give your final farewells for the night, as much as you had been ready for it to possibly be something else.

“So-”

Soap’s hands clasped both sides of your face, his lips crashing down onto yours. The sheer power of it sends you both back pressed flush against your bedroom door. It takes you a second to catch up.

You feel his body press against you, his heart racing next to yours. You gasp into his mouth, the air feeling as though it had completely left you, before you've let your hands instinctively go up to wrap around his neck.

He kisses you like he’d spent a lot of time thinking about all the ways he could go about it. Making sure that his lips part from you just right, before coming back in velvety-like, gradually escalating. He follows your pace, feels for your moves, and adapts to your whims. He truly respected the craft of liplocking; you surely took advantage of that fact too.

Kissing him made you feel drunk. The way he moved made your knees weak, your hands almost unable to concentrate on doing anything beyond holding onto him. That was less of a problem for Soap it seems, who’s hands had gracelessly slid their way down your body to your ass, each cheek cupped perfectly in his palms. He squeezes greedily, pressing you against him roughly. Immediately, you feel the man through his gym shorts, and may God be your witness, you had to keep from gasping again. The man was surely a showoff by nature as well.

Even with his suave motions, Soap still felt as innocently enraptured by you as he had been before. It excited you to toy with it, see how much that innocence could be corrupted. Your tongue dips into his mouth, wrestling with his, as you feel him groan. That hand on your ass grips tighter in response, sending a shockwave straight through your core.

His taste is sweet on your lips, intoxicating to lick. Before long your lips and tongue dance together, your chests rising with adrenaline. The sloppier your tongue clashes against his, the sloppier he mirrors the energy. It was messy and it was voracious. And it was a wonder you two hadn’t swallowed each other yet.

Soap’s hands grow more adventurous, one traveling to the front of you. It snakes up your shirt and manages to slide beneath your bra, his entire hand palming your breast. The coolness of his hand against your skin causes you to shiver, which only sends a throbbing sensation down himself, one you feel against your leg. His fingers glide over your nipple, beginning to pinch and tug at them gently. You moan in his mouth and the cheeky bastard laughs against your lips. In turn, you bite his lip, giving it a little nip.

“Ow,” he laughs, and it makes you giggle. Soap responds to this by diving in towards your neck, nipping at the groove of your skin and catching your breath. It sends a tidal wave through you, as you feel his teeth sink deeper in, biting down just hard enough to leave a faint mark in your skin.

You gasp out passionately, and laugh. “Ow.”

Soap pull’s back, keeping his hands over your shoulders, only a breath or so away from you. His smile somehow looks even brighter than you’ve ever seen it before. It made butterflies flutter in you shyly. You felt like a girl again, back when crushes and small moments like this could feel like the whole world to you.

He seems as starry-eyed as you, from how his eyes detail you endlessly, pupils dilating at every new discovery. Soap may have worked some sort of magic on you, but you’ve put a spell on him too, as you did so often. Only now… maybe it didn’t feel as pretend this time.

“Earth to Canary.”

You blink and see Soap still looking down at you, waiting obediently. You smile. “I read you.”

“Penny for your thoughts?”

“Just…” You think to yourself, somewhat pondering a response, and somewhat getting hung on his eyes again. It baffled you the way it caught you, every time. In a way, it’s the reason for the words that teeter on your tongue. “You scare me.”

Soap raises an eyebrow and chuckles. “I do?”

You nod. “Mhm.”

“Why?”

Because you really liked this. You really liked him and you barely know him. You knew the real reason why the entire time. And yet… “You just do.”

Your phone begins to buzz in your pocket again, finally taking your eyes away from Soap. You pull your cell out, only to see it was a text message. From Graves. A cold chill ran through you, almost turning you nauseous.

You must have been making a face, because Soap's expression was beginning to turn more perplexed.

You sigh, sliding the phone back into your pocket, but keeping your gaze away from Soap as well. You felt almost too guilty to now.

“I hope we don’t regret this John,” you say.

“I’d’ve only regretted not taking this chance with you.”

Soap lowers his head to capture your lips in another kiss. A gentle one that took its time to enjoy itself, as his hands cupped around your face again, his thumb caressing your cheek. You raise your hand and rest it over his, your frail fingers entangling between his. Holding him still.

If you let this go on, you knew this would escalate. A part of you is already craving it, but that text message notification hovers in the back of your mind.

You take your hand and press it against Soap's chest, feeling his heartbeat against your fingers. It thuds almost rapidly, as though he were anxious kissing you. He didn't let it translate in his actions, but his heart was clearly spinning.

You take your other hand and open your bedroom door, before finally pushing Soap away, giving him a doe-eyed look. Meanwhile he looks down at you hungrily, your hand on his chest being the only thing keeping him away from you.

"Can I come in?" he asks rather boyishly.

You smirk. "It wouldn't be very ladylike of me," you tease. "Plus, I have to give you some reason to come back."

"I don't need a reason," he says.

"Well good," you smile. "Then I'll be seeing you, John."

"And you, Canary."

You thought about telling him your name. You almost did. But him not knowing felt innocent enough of a game you both could play together. One that brought no harm, and one with no ulterior motive. It's the kind of game you could only play with a man like John.

You shut the door slowly, looking to Soap until you could look no longer. The minute the door clicked shut and the lock re-buzzed, you took a few tired steps over to your bed and plopped down face first into your pillows.

And after a few more seconds went by, you pulled your phone out and began reading the text Graves had sent you. You held your breath as you read the message to yourself. Conflicted.

...Chapter Seventeen Here!