#The Strange Person Hunt Murder Case

[detco-hell]

[episode 13 - The Strange Person Hunt Murder Case]

[luci-in-trenchcoats]

The Pathology Murders

Summary: When the reader and the boys stumble across a gruesome scene, they get the feeling that the monster they're hunting is of the human variety...

Pairing: Dean x reader

Word Count: 5,800ish

Warnings: language, angst, lots of mentions of gore/death, trauma, accident, fluff

A/N: This fic was inspired by this imagine (which makes an appearance in this one shot) and also by the horror movie Pathology!

________

“What the hell…” Dean and Sam looked around the abandoned house, pausing like you had when they got to the kitchen. Your boys weren’t wimps by any means. They’d seen some serious crap. Done some serious crap. But that kitchen? 

It took Sam all of three seconds to step out of the room and upheave his greek salad from lunch.

Meanwhile Dean took it all in before his eyes landed on where you were trying to work the scene, fighting back another dry heave. 

“You alright?” he asked. You knew he was concerned. You weren’t one to puke up your guts either. But the poor soul on the kitchen table, or rather what was left of him…twisted wasn’t even the right word for it.

“Not particularly,” you said, pointing at a glass jar that housed a pair of kidneys on the stove. “Not all the organs made it into jars. Pretty sure the liver is in the sink.”

Dean cautiously took a step inside, swallowing thickly. Unlike you or Sam, who had your own experiences with hell, Dean’s had been far more…interactive. Sam’s soul was battered around by Lucifer but it’d been more psychological than physical. You’d spent an unpleasant night with a hellhound in the same cage and while it hadn’t been fun, you’d been able to stay in a corner and out of harms way. Dean though…Dean had been sliced and diced and hacked and every other possible horror, imaginable or not. And then he’d performed the acts himself. You never blamed him for giving in, for breaking. You’d told him time and time again he was, and always would be, a good man.

Some days, more often lately it seemed the older he got, he seemed to believe you.

“Whoever did this performed an autopsy on this guy. While he was alive,” said Dean, leaning over the body to get a closer look. “Huh. Anybody see a heart around here?”

You surveyed the bloody room, finding more than a few peculiar shaped body parts but nothing resembling a heart. Sam finally made his way in, taking a deep inhale as he got used to the gore before him. “I got nothing over here.”

“Could be a werewolf,” said Dean, cocking his head as he straightened, brow furrowing. “Or a witch.”

You knew he wasn’t buying that though, neither of you were. You tore your eyes away from the search to watch Sam’s expression flare up with a strange look of familiarity. “Sammy?”

“I think a person did this,” he said. Dean rolled his eyes.

“No shit Sherlock. Someone used a knife or-”

“No, jackass,” said Sam, shooting Dean a harsh look for a brief second. “I mean I think this was a human, like an actual human. They were just talking about a cold case like this on a podcast I listened to during my run last week.”

“You and your fucking serial killer obsession,” muttered Dean. Sam’s eye twitched, the tension rising in the room. “It’s fucking weird, Sammy.”

“We hunt monsters, dumbass. How is that any different?”

“That’s our job. You don’t see me watching murder documentaries like a certain someone in my free time.” Sam got closer to Dean, Dean taking one to match, both boy’s jaws clenching. 

“Hey,” you said with a snap of your fingers, the pair reluctantly turning towards you. “Dean, plenty of people are interested in cold cases and as long as Sam isn’t a serial killer himself, his hobby is fine. Sam, Dean just gets concerned that you don’t take enough of a break from hunting but he can’t come out and say that. So hug and make up. You’re on the same side.”

They both grumbled and gave each other a half-assed embraced but it made you smile regardless. 

“So what’d your murder podcast say?” asked Dean, walking around to the other side of the cut open body. Sam’s face soured. “That good, huh?”

“They called them the Pathology Murders. A string of five victims about ten years ago that went unsolved. The killer performed live autopsies like you said about this guy earlier. The only lead they ever had was that the killer must have medical training, like a doctor, based on what they did to the victims. Oh, and all the murders took place in the Seattle area.”

“Which downtown is only twenty minutes from here,” you said, crossing your arms. “Was the heart missing at the other scenes?”

“I’m not sure. They could have skimmed over that,” said Sam. Your gaze followed Dean’s, his green eyes laced with uncertainty. “I can do some research back at the motel. You guys could check in with Seattle PD, see if the case files have anything useful.”

“We should double check that it’s not our kind of monster and if it really is a person-”

“We’re not working this case,” said Dean. Your eyebrows shot up, Sam’s face already frowning. “We do not investigate serial killers. Save it for the police.”

“Uh, what the hell is going on? You would never let a killer, monster or human, stay on the loose,” said Sam.

Dean’s gaze shot to you and quickly away, his eyes turning sharp as they zeroed in on Sam. You scoffed, Sam cocking his head in question.

“It’s because my mom was murdered. By a serial killer. Isn’t it, Dean?” Dean’s lips pressed into a thin hard line and you shook your head. “They caught her killer which you know. What does that have anything to do with-”

“You caught the killer, you did that,” said Dean, Sam completely lost. He knew your mom had been killed but not the gory details like Dean.

“Wouldn’t that be a good thing then?” he asked. “Y/N has experience with this sort of thing then.”

“Why don’t you explain to Sammy just exactly what you did to ‘catch’ her killer then, sweetheart. Go on. I’m sure he’d love to hear it.” You glared at Dean, feeling an unpleasant prickling in your eyes. Dean didn’t back down as you teared up though, instead focusing on Sam. “She let herself be bait. She let herself get caught by the son of a bitch. She almost died because she doesn’t see when she’s going too far with serial killers. The same thing happened on that Tulsa case five years ago.”

You could sense Sam had shifted very quickly to being on Dean’s side of this argument. You’d been young and reckless with your mom’s killer, barely a day over eighteen. That was years and years ago. You’d learned since then to use more sense. Tulsa…well your plan as being bait would have worked if your former hunting partner hadn’t been more focused on getting some ass that night than watching your back.

“Yeah, that’s how we met, Sam. Not working a case. No, Y/N was fucked and if I hadn’t been driving back from Jody’s that night and saw the fucking asshole grab her, she’d be dead. Wouldn’t you?” Dean snarled. You narrowed your misty eyes at him, Dean lifting his chin. “We will make sure this isn’t our kind of deal and if it is in fact a run of the mill serial killer, we are getting the fuck out of here, understand me?”

“I fucked up once. Once,” you breathed out. You swallowed thickly, wiping off your face with your jacket sleeve. “Just how many times have you been kidnapped Dean in the five years that I’ve known you? I’ve been taken once. You? How many times have I cut you loose? Taken out the monster with a knife to your throat? A gun to your head? How many times have you gotten lost in a case? Gone on a rampage? I never realized we were keeping score.”

Dean’s gaze fell to the floor, his hand running over his jaw, searching for the right words.

“Sam, go back to the motel and research. Dean and I’ll do the fed schitk and get the files we can. Whoever’s behind this, I’m going after them. You two can do whatever the hell you want,” you said, storming out of the room and out of the house.

“You look pretty,” said Dean softly a few hours later as you exited the motel bathroom in your fed suit, a light blue button down blouse with your charcoal gray suit jacket and pants. You ignored him as you dug through your duffel for your pointed black booties. Professional but also you knew for a fact you could run and fight in them. You growled in frustration when you couldn’t find them though, hearing Dean clear his throat behind your back. You glanced over your shoulder, following Dean’s gaze to where he’d set them down by the end of the bed.

“Thanks,” you grumbled, slipping them on and pulling up the side zipper. Dean was sporting his navy suit today, the one he looked extra hot in. You ignored that fact as you tucked your gun into the back of your pants, fixing your suit jacket over it.

“Y/N.” You sighed, giving him a look that you really didn’t want to do this right now. He took a long breath, sitting down on the edge of the bed. Sam quietly slinked out of the room into his adjoining one. Most of the time the three of you shared but when you could swing it, Sam got his own next door to give you and Dean some privacy.

Privacy you didn’t necessarily want at this moment.

“You do good cop, I’ll be the hardass if it comes to it,” you said, shoving your phone in your pocket. You tried to walk past him for the door but he caught your hand, stopping you after a few feet. “Dean.”

“I do not, and have never, thought you were weak. But serial killers are a blindspot for you. Sam and I both have them. This is yours.” He lowered his head, like he was fighting the words that were coming out. 

To your surprise, he dropped your hand and stood. 

“Be careful on this one, sweetheart.” He walked past you to the motel door, cracking it open and pausing. “We should get going.”

“You sure I’m not going to lose it? Get too carried away and get myself captured?” you said, unable to stop from poking back after his earlier insinuations. Dean’s shoulders rose and fell, one hand going to the doorframe to grip it as you watched the back of his head lower.

“Y/N, don’t you know by now I’m an idiot that’d rather lose you because I’m a dick than find you in the hands of some monster like whoever did that to that poor guy? Don’t you know I know you’re stronger than me? Don’t you think I realize how hard it is to be with someone like me?”

“You don’t stop Sam from doing dangerous things,” you said. “You don’t bring up the past to him.”

“Yes I have,” he said quietly. “And convincing Sam to stay in a motel room where it’s safe to research has never been hard thankfully.”

“You don’t treat me with the same respect though,” you said softly. “It hurts to know you never will think of me as being as capable as he is all because I’m your girlfriend.”

Dean shook his head, straightening his back. “You are more than capable, sweetheart. But sometimes…I just want to be a man that protects his girl. I don’t want to be scared of failing you for once…because if that monster got anywhere near you…”

You took quiet steps over to him, staring at his broad shoulders as they sagged.

“Eventually everyone I love dies or has something awful happen to them. Maybe I don’t say it the right way but fucking hell, all I want is for those things to not happen to you.” He spun around, green eyes full of worry. You nodded, taking his hand and lacing your fingers together. He squeezed them gently, the warmth of it pleasant.

“Our job is dangerous, Dean. We hunt the monsters, supernatural or not. I love you but you don’t get to keep me locked away.” You ran your thumb over his scuffed up skin, still healing form last week’s hunt. “That said…I promise not to get so angry if you promise to just say you’re scared for me. We’ll figure it out, okay?”

“Okay,” he said, a flicker of a smile on his face. “I just have a bad feeling about this one.”

“Then we’ll be smart, okay?” You leaned up and pressed a kiss to his cheek. “And don’t call yourself an idiot. I don’t like it.”

“Okay, sweetheart,” he said. “Let’s go figure out what the hell is going on.”

Two Hours Later

“This guy’s a fucking psycho,” you said into your phone while Dean came outside with a bag of burgers and fries. “Apparently he sends the hearts to the victims families in a little box with a bow.”

“Sounds about right for a guy who cuts people open for fun,” said Sam on the other end. “I’m gonna pour through the records you just sent over.”

“Alright. Dean and I should be back in fifteen-”

“Why don’t you guys have a date night? I got this for a few hours.” You bit your bottom lip, Sam’s silence going on. “Come on, Y/N. You guys should talk about Dean’s protectiveness and your stubbornness.”

You wanted to argue that fact but sighed, closing your eyes.

“Any suggestions on how we find that line when our job is to hunt killers?” you asked.

“Maybe remember that he’s your boyfriend first, hunting partner second. Most boyfriends wouldn’t want their girlfriend near a serial killer either, no matter what their job.”

“Don’t have good points, Samuel,” you said as Dean took a seat next to you on Baby’s hood. “We’ll be back in two hours.”

You hung up and dove your hand into the bag of fries, smirking when Dean presented you with a chocolate milkshake. He grinned as you dipped the fry in it and tossed it back, giving him a big thumbs up.

“I love you,” you said, Dean smiling as he dug out his burger. “I always love you, even when we fight.”

He glanced at you, landing a gentle kiss on your lips in the next moment. He barely moved his lips, letting them linger instead. He moved back only an inch and nodded. “I was a dickhead earlier. All because I’m afraid of finding you with a serial killer standing over you with a giant ass knife again. I don’t know why I can’t just come out and say that shit in the moment.”

“Because you’re human,” you said, wrapping an arm around his waist. “And you’re so much better at talking to me than five years ago. The old you wouldn’t have even been able to say that to me.”

“I try,” he said, letting you kiss him, your own a tad more forceful than his had been.

“That’s all I ask for,” you said, Dean’s phone going off at that exact moment. He sighed as he took it out, Sam’s name appearing. He tapped it onto speaker and took a bite of his burger. “What’s up Sammy?”

“Guys, I think I figured something out. All the victims were patients at Mercy West hospital back in the day and this latest guy? He was a patient there last week.” You and Dean shared a frown. “Yeah, I know. The cops investigated all of the hospital staff there back then but they never came up with anything. They thought maybe a doctor was behind it but he died in a car accident between the second and third vics.”

“It could have been him and he had a partner. Definitely is someone with access to records so they have to work there,” said Dean as you held up a finger. “What?”

“I could have sworn I’ve heard about this hospital in the news before. Something to do with a boat accident?” you asked. You heard Sam typing loudly before he hummed.

“Yup. They made national news about six months ago when seven of their medical students died in a boating accident. Explosion apparently when they got boozed up and had a bonfire on the boat. The bodies were so bad they couldn’t identify the remains,” said Sam. Dean took another bite of his burger and swallowed. “Already checking through the police files. Shit.”

“Shit what, Sam?” you asked, dunking a fry in your milkshake.

“Shit as in the boat accident wasn’t an accident at all. There was definitely an explosion but they found damage on the bodies indicating some injuries occurred before death. Like being carved up alive. They don’t want the public knowing the killer is still active in the area.”

“It’s gotta be someone linked to that hospital. Only question is why can’t the police figure out who?” asked Dean.

“Good question,” said Sam. “I’m going to keep digging, see if there’s a connection between the two we missed.”

“Thanks Sammy. We’ll be back in twenty to help,” said Dean, hanging up. He glanced at you, biting the inside of his cheek.

“This isn’t a monster,” you said quietly. “At least, it’s a human one.”

Dean polished off the rest of his meal quietly, the air still for a few beats. 

“When you get too worried about me on hunts, you put yourself in danger,” you said, slowly sipping from the shake. His heated gaze was on you as you handed him the drink. “You have to trust that I’m strong enough to do this. Careful and capable. We both need to work on that.”

“Alright. But do me a favor? Stick close to me or Sammy on this one. You’re just…” You waited, let him find his words. He took the drink and finished it off, shoving the trash in the bag. “You just got over that shoulder injury. Your punches don’t hit as hard as normal right now. I don’t mean that in a bad way, just-”

“Okay,” you said, finding his hand, slipping yours inside. “Now let’s figure out who this bastard is.”

He hummed, letting go of you for a brief moment so he could toss the garbage away. You slid inside the passenger seat, Dean back and behind the wheel after the blink of an eye. Approximately ten seconds later you were pulling out of the parking lot and on the road, headed down main street and for the motel.

“So I was thinking this guy does autopsies on victims right?” said Dean, turning the radio down low on a soft rock station. You glanced out the window on the dark night, a rumble of thunder overhead. “But the cops can’t find him. Well, isn’t there someone that sometimes works at hospitals and for the police that would be able to fuck with a body after the fact and hide traces of their involvement?”

“A pathologist. I was thinking that too but wouldn’t that have been their first look? I mean they literally call them the Pathology Murders,” you said, waiting for the the light to turn green. “It could be someone that knows someone at the department covering for them. Stranger things have happened.”

“Maybe. I get the gist this guy works alone though. I only clocked one set of boots at the scene this morning,” he said, the bright green light illuminating the dark interior.

“Same. It’s absolutely someone associated with that damn hospital-” you said, Dean’s arm shooting in front of you in your peripheral. A millisecond later, something slammed into the right side of Baby, your side. Your lap belt tugged on you hard as your body lolled to the side, weightless for a moment before gravity reared it’s ugly head and slammed you down. Your head smacked something hard and it all went dark.

You could hear Dean asking a paramedic a million questions, not a single one concerned about himself. You opened your eyes to find yourself in the back of an ambulance, Dean lying on a stretcher beside you. He could tell you were awake and struggled to reach over to you but couldn’t. Instead he thrashed his head back against his pillow in defeat, straining against the straps that held him down.

“Sir, I need you to calm down,” said the paramedic as you blinked slowly at Dean. You knew something was wrong with you, with both of you, but you weren’t quite sure what that was yet. You struggled when you saw Dean upset. You wanted him to feel better. “You need to relax, she’s seeing you panic and that’s making her do the same.”

Dean stopped as he took in how your heart rate had skyrocketed, how scared you looked. He sighed and forced himself to stay calm. You saw him relax and heard him say it was okay. Neither of you enjoyed the feeling of being tied down, especially when the both of you were in plain view of one another and couldn’t reach each other. You tried to speak but couldn’t as you felt how raw your throat was. 

“We’ll be at Mercy West in just a few minutes,” said the paramedic to Dean as you half-listened. 

“No, take us somewhere else!” yelled Dean suddenly, fighting again. The paramedic sighed as you both started struggling once more. You didn’t have much of an idea of what was going on but if Dean didn’t want to go there, it wasn’t safe. 

“I’m going to give each of you a sedative and by the time you wake up, you’ll be in your hospital beds feeling a lot better,” he said gently. 

“No, don’t you touch her,” said Dean as you started to get very sleepy. The last thing you saw was Dean shutting his eyes as you finally remembered what had happened.

If Sam didn’t get to you soon, you were screwed.

Your eyes wearily opened under bright lights that made your head hurt. You winced and turned away from it, limbs heavy and still. Dean’s voice echoed somewhere, to your left maybe? You forced your eyes open again, Dean strapped down to a metal table with metal drawers behind him, the look on his face like he was screaming at you. You blinked, the ringing in your eyes loud and obnoxious, droning him out.

“Get up, fucking get up!” Dean shouted so loud you shook your head, a splitting headache cracking over you. “Y/N get out of here!” 

It took only a moment to discover that unlike Dean, you weren’t restrained in what was most likely the hospital morgue. Something was wrong though. A sedative? No. You were becoming more alert if anything but your arms were growing more tired, head becoming too heavy to lift.

“Something’s off,” you tried to say, the words caught in your throat, unable to be voiced. Your eyes flared wide, Dean’s drifting past you.

“Someone took a long time to wake up,” said a voice to your right. Suddenly a hand was under your head.

“Don’t you fucking touch her!” Dean snarled, your head set on a…stand? Something to keep it elevated and from rolling to the side. You tried to move but the message wasn’t getting to your body, your eyes glued on the handsome face with a just slightly off smile leaning over you.

“You were in a nasty accident, Agent Carlson. Unfortunately for you, your head trauma was too severe and you coded in the ER. Meanwhile Agent Manns in his grief unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. At least that’s what the autopsy report will say,” he said, inspecting what felt like a cut on your temple. “Such a shame. It won’t be my best work but you’re not the first law enforcement to cross me. Sadly no one will be able to discover your remains once you’re accidentally incinerated as John and Jane Doe but it’s good practice.”

“Let her go you fucking psycho,” growled Dean when the doctor moved out of view and returned with a pair of shears. 

“Psycho? I’m Dr. Thomas, ER Trauma physician and part-time pathologist. I’ve saved far more lives than I’ve taken, Agent Manns,” he said, snipping through your blouse. 

“What the fuck did you do to her?” Dr. Thomas bagged your shirt in a plastic bag nearby, doing the same with your pants and boots once they’d been removed.

“Paralyzing agent. Hard to come by but it has it’s advantages. No messy straps or ropes in the way,” he said, lifting your arm as you watched helplessly, cold metal against your skin as he cut through your bra straps.

“I swear to god I’m going to rip your spine out of your fucking face. If you touch her-”

“Not my style,” said Dr. Thomas, pulling away the fabric, sending a chill down your back. He gave you his focus again, a smirk on his face as he put two fingers to your neck. “Your heart is hammering away, isn’t it? Biology is fascinating that way. It’s so strange how an emotion such as fear can cause physical reactions in our bodies.”

“Get the fuck away from her!” shouted Dean. Dr. Thomas’ smile towards you dropped when he looked at Dean. He sighed and set the shears down, walking out of view.

“You’re really starting to irritate me,” he said, the distinct sound of tape being ripped from a roll filling the room and then Dean’s cries became muffled, only quiet thumping as he struggled coming from him now. Dr. Thomas appeared again wearing another smile. “Sorry about that. It’s always the men that get all squirmy. The women always live longer. Now, one could argue that’s because women have on average more blood in their bodies than men but I’ve gotten a fairly large sample size over the past decade to believe they’re psychologically stronger and therefore last longer.”

You tried hard to move your hand when he held up a scalpel near your face but nothing worked. 

Fuck if you could move anything you’d be shaking harder than a tree in a damn hurricane. Dean struggling right beside you with a front row seat was not helping.

“Now I like to explain all of my procedures to my patients beforehand. While you are paralyzed to a degree, you will still feel things. That’s perfectly normal.” You were wide eyed, Dr. Thomas chuckling. “The procedure typically takes me around thirty minutes. However, you’ll die from the blood loss or shock after roughly seven so don’t worry about that aspect. Considering you were in an accident less than an hour ago, I suspect it’s more like four or five for you which is unfortunate for me but it is what it is. Perhaps Agent Manns will give me more time.”

He lowered the scalpel to your shoulder and dug in hard to the skin, dragging it inward towards your chest. Your scream was caught in your throat as he did it on the other side to match.

Dean was shouting and thrashing on the table beside you but you couldn’t even turn your head to look. Dr. Thomas started talking about incisions and procedures and then you felt something completely unnatural against your arm, another shout trapped in your lungs. Forget the brave face. You would have been full on wailing if you were capable of it.

Crack. Snap. Shudder. Rip. It was around the time that Dr. Thomas held up something dark red and sticky looking that your body decided passing out was the best course of action. Unfortunately, it wasn’t doing that for some reason and you were stuck on the edge of consciousness, terrified and wishing something would come along and smash your head in to end this.

A loud bang shot out and something heavy smacked your leg, something else skirting against your side. 

“Dear god,” whispered Sam. Your eyes were locked open as you heard Sam rush over, staring down at you for only a split second before he moved to Dean. 

That was not good. You were far more injured that Dean, somewhere on the verge of death if you figured. Sam would have stopped to help you first.

Unless you were beyond saving.

“Sweetheart,” said Dean, grabbing one of your blood covered hands in both of his. Fuck he was crying. Fuck, fuck, fuck. You were so totally fucked. He looked over to Sam, Sam staring back with an open mouth. They couldn’t fix this. Shit, shit. You were going to die cut open like a Thanksgiving turkey. “W-What about Cas?”

“Dean,” said Sam, an air of resignation in his voice. “He’s in Kansas.”

“Jack then.”

“He’s with Cas. He doesn’t know how to-”

“A spell, a cure, something! Take her upstairs to a fucking doctor!” shouted Dean. 

“De. Half of her organs are…” said Sam as you got light headed, Dean’s hand running over your head. Dean found your face, his chin wobbling. “I-I don’t know what to do.”

“Then we sit with our girl,” said Dean softly, tucking a hair behind your ear. “And you fall asleep, sweetheart and when you wake up again, you’ll feel all better. I’ll come find you someday. Okay? Just close your eyes and try to sleep for me.”

Dean lowered his head, kissing your forehead as he fought back the tears that wanted to spill over. Sam took your other hand, squeezing it gently as you tried to do what he asked.

“Bloody hell, of course a Winchester took out a nutter like that. I’d have thunk he deserved more than a bullet,” said a familiar voice. 

“Rowena?” both boys echoed. She didn’t respond though, Sam’s hand dropping yours as a flash of red hair moved in front of you. You stared up at her, her hands cradling your cheeks.

“Dean, let go.” He did and about two seconds later you were shot straight upright, body in one piece, full of feeling and horror as you wrapped your arms over your chest, looking all around. 

“What the hell was that?” asked Sam while Dean shrugged out of his fed jacket and wrapped it around your shoulders, buttoning you up before he picked you up and was cradling you in his arms.

Rowena faced him with a hand on her hip, your own gaze falling down to where a dead Dr. Thomas lay on the floor, blood oozing from the back of his open head.

“Do you boys still not see me as a friend?” she asked, an undercurrent of hurt in her voice. You were shaking in Dean’s arms, clutching to his shirt with your too long sleeves. 

“You’re the queen of hell. Why would you stop a death?” asked Sam. She rolled her eyes and approached you, resting a hand on your arm.

“Because I’m the queen of hell and I do as I please, Samuel.” You wanted to say thank you but all you could manage was a few jumbled words as you buried yourself in Dean’s neck. “She’s in shock, quite bad. Best to take her home and let her rest.”

“Thank you Rowena,” said Dean, walking past her, stopping near the entrance to the room. “Next time you need something, just let us know and we’ll help.”

“Of course. I’ll take care of this mess. Oh and Y/N, dear?” You managed to lift your head, grateful to find Sam was right on Dean’s heels. “This lad is going to be spending a lot of time on the receiving end of what he gave out up here down in hell. I promise you that.”

You nodded, giving her a thumbs up. Dean kissed the top of your head, his hold on you tight.

“You’re going to be alright, sweetheart. Just give it some time.”

“How’s that feel?” asked Dean for what felt like the twentieth time back at the motel. You’d showered, took another another shower, took a bath, took another shower and currently were wrapped up in a mess of Dean’s pajamas on the bed with a big towel in your hair. 

“Better,” you said, your voice back with you once you’d gotten out of the hospital morgue. Sam was off relaying what he’d found to the local police. Apparently Dr. Thomas had worked on a few cases for the county but his sister it turned out was a hot shot detective who’d been covering for him for years. It was how he’d found out about you and Dean investigating.

Honestly that woman would be better off going out like her brother. She’d covered up a lot of murders for her brother. It’d be a miracle if someone didn’t take her out before then. Not that you particularly would mind that. 

You patted the bed beside you, Dean taking a seat and pulling you into his lap. He removed the damp towel and nuzzled the top of your head with his cheek, strong arms wrapped all around your body.

“So we really nailed that whole careful thing, huh?” you said. Dean chuckled deeply, inhaling the scent of your damp hair, a pretty lilac and vanilla blend you knew he liked. 

“How do you do that? Make me laugh when I don’t feel like ever laughing again,” he said, tightening his hold.

“Because I’m hilarious,” you said, closing your eyes, wrapping your hands around his forearms. “You might not understand this but what you said when I thought…you made me feel safe even when I was scared that was it. You were a guy protecting his girl tonight, even if it’s not the way you meant it.”

“Meant every word,” he whispered, breathing slowly. 

“Don’t you dare fucking apologize for not stopping it. There’s no way we saw that coming.”

“Okay,” he said, draping his legs over yours, leaning back against the headboard with you. “How’s that feel? Comfy?”

You smiled as you rolled your eyes at him, tucking in closer. “I got you, Winchester. I’ll be alright. A chocolate milkshake and order of fries wouldn’t hurt though.”

“You’re hungry? After all that?” he chuckled. 

“Yup. Ask Sam to pick some up on his way back,” you said, tilting your head back, kissing under his jaw. “Our date got cut short after all.”

“Are you sure you’re okay? You couldn’t talk earlier,” he said, taking your hand, lacing your fingers together.

“I’ll have nightmares, I’m sure, and all the other crap we get. But right now in this moment, with you, I’m okay.” He smiled, holding your body against his.

“I love you so much. You’re the best thing that ever happened to me. Even if you do get kidnapped by serial killers.” You whacked his leg, Dean’s laugh rumbling against your back.

“Love you too, ya dork.”

_________

[star-dust-no-name]

°☆I come from the stars☆°

Part 1: New Family

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Murder drones x child reader (platonic)

Hypothesis: What if child reader came in the landing pod with J,V and N?

Gender neutral reader

*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*✩‧₊˚

N was shocked, flabbergasted and confused at the sight of a child, even more so when you seemingly were able to breathe toxic Copper-9 air, with a quick scan though he figured out your lungs were made out of some materials that made you to be able to withstand the toxic air.

Almost like you were being prepared for something...

"N MOVE OUT OF THE WAY"

Said J as she pushed N and quickly took you into her arms, cradling you.

"Fresh meat?"

Said V as she approached her teeth showing and her visor displaying an X before she paused, being forcefully reset.

"Tch, guess I can't eat them"

She said, obviously being annoyed and hungry.

"That's what you get V we have specific orders from the magnificent company JCjenson to keep this child safe, which means as your beautiful intelligent boss, we will have a schedule on keeping this human child safe"

N have a thumbs up as V stood next to him, annoyed but still paying attention secretly.

You began to wake up the loudness of the voices that you heard were enough to get you to wake up, opening your eyes, you saw Tessas friends!

"N!!!,J!!!,V!!!"

You said obviously excited as you began to reach your hands out to them. You thought you would never see them, especially since the last thing you saw at the manor was..

Wait

What did happen at the manor?

.....

You don't seem to remember

As well as the fact that you don't even remember this "Tessa" person.

Huh

How strange, is it?

J was confused at what you were doing, N quickly reached out and picked you up, squealing in excitement as you began to just poke him anywhere and everywhere you could, N smiled, taking it all in.

J rolled her eyes as she noticed that V was missing

"That little....she went off to hunt already???!!!"

J was obviously angry and quickly spread her wings as she prepared for flight. Before leaving, J turned her head to N.

"You, take that human child to base and don't leave, entertain them or anything, but keep them safe, or else I'll rip your head out"

Said J at N before taking off going to hunt as well as to find her coworker V.

*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*✩‧₊˚

Crunch,crunch,crunch,crunch

The snow was crunching underneath your boots as you happily stepped on it, smiling at the sight of snow for the first time. N was following closely behind you, keeping you safe and being aware of your surroundings having a laser gun prepared just in case someone who was dangerous came by. "Oooooo, N whatcha got there?"

You said, smiling mischievously at the sight of something unfamiliar but shiny

"OH uhh nothing little child why don't you keep on going?"

You pouted, "but I wanna hold that. It's shiny and pretty," you said, reaching your hands out to the laser gun. N just smiled but still decided to give you a smaller version of it, you had a mischievous grin on your face as you began just pointing the miniature laser gun everywhere as it began shooting small rays of lasers.

Ohh boy J was totally going to kill him.

*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*✩‧₊˚

"N WHAT THE HELL? WHY WOULD YOU GIVE A CHILD A GUN?"

J not very calmly said as when she returned to the crashed ship she found you and N, you playing with guns while N smiled as he nervously watched how you handled the guns.

"Sorry, J, the child really wanted a gun, and I couldn't resist their puppy eyes"

J sighed, obviously frustrated as she held V behind her by her coat as V started trying to bite J to get out of her grasp.

J threw V to N as she calmly held out her hand to you.

"Human child.. would you be so kind as to hand over those guns to me?"

J smiled at you, N and V were shocked as they never heard J be so nice.

J noticed and turned around "Tch I can be nice"

You looked at J as you reached your hand out to her with the gun, being grumpy as your gun was taken away by J and replaced by a teddy bear plushie by J. You quickly switched from being sad to excited as you held the teddy bear in your hands.

"You forgot it inside your ship. Luckily, I got it back before some worker drone thought it would be a great idea to steal it"

J said, letting out a small smile at you as you hugged her, J returned the hug after 5 seconds.

"I hate to break this moment, but shouldn't we name the human child instead of calling them human child?"

Said N smiling nervously as J looked annoyed at him, but he was right and she knew it, you needed a name they couldn't just keep calling you human child like you were some experiment or something that would just be inhumane, but then again they aren't human.

"I saw we call them meat," said V, grinning

"[Name]"

They all turned their heads to you as you spoke.

"My name is [name] and I am 8 years old"

You said as you held out 8 fingers to them.

"Well then [name] don't play with our guns they are too dangerous for a child like you"

J spoke as a strict parent to you as she looked at you, but she also cared about you, a protective parent with the right intentions, but the wrong actions

"Don't worry [name]. I'll teach you all the horrific ways to kill a worker drone"

Said V like a insane parent as she grinned at you extremely seriously but also caring? She seemed to care about your safety, so a insane but protective parent

"V can't we atleast wait until they're 10 or something? We don't want to traumatize a little child"

Said N worried about you like a caring and kind parent.

You're going to enjoy your new parents, as you 4 navigate Copper-9 and survive together as a family.

"Wait how are we going to feed them?"

Said N worryingly, as J groaned in annoyance and V snickered at a thought in her coded head

This will definitely be fun.

*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*✩‧₊˚

*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*✩‧₊˚ Authors Note: It's been some times since I've updated this series I promise it ain't dead I just got to many ideas for this series that it kinda overlaps so I'm just gonna plan ahead for future episodes so everything is clear, may the stars guide you, traveler.

-Stardust☆

[literallylexa]

Dean Winchester x Reader

Warnings: Smut, Dean! Masturbating, Death, Storyline

Dr. Monster

Saving people, hunting things, it’s the family business. During one of Sam and Dean’s hunts, they come across a small town in Oregon. “Strange” non-violent encounters happen is this town frequently, until a person is murdered. What next evil treat are the Winchesters going to battle now?

“Chapter One: “Monster Town”

Another day. Saving people, hunting things, it’s the family business for the two hunters Sam and Dean Winchester. Sometimes the boys have a break for a couple days to a week, but that’s if they’re lucky. Most of the time the end of the world has suddenly fallen upon them, but the boys admit to getting theirselves into these situations too.

“So,” Sam begins, taking a long sip of his morning iced vanilla oatmilk shaken expresso, shaking it slightly to mix the drink back together. Dean groans. Sam looks over at him with an eyebrow raised, “In a town in Oregon, lots of people have seen strange encounters.” Sam reads, “However there are no missing persons or murders. Until just recently. A girl was found dead. Heart ripped out…Could be a werwolf.” Sam looks over to Dean in confirmation.

Dean sighs and rolls over in bed, clearly feeling tired from the long drive last night. “Another case? We just finished one.” Dean whines, covering his eyes from the rays of sunshine coming in through the small holes on the dusty motel curtain.

“Just listen. So people have been seeing weird things at night. Like for example this guy wrote that he came out of a bar, and saw a full size-standing up and everything-dog eating a cheeseburger.”

“Must have been a damn good burger.” Dean mumbles, slightly peaking interest. “What’s in that burger?”

Sam laughs, “They do have one of the best burgers on record in the area.”

“Perfect. We can eat a cheeseburger while ganking a werwolf….okay yeah let’s go.” Dean immediately starts packing his things excitingly.

The boys arrive in the late evening. “Let’s get some burgers.” Dean drives into the parking spot at the diner. “Mountain Diner.” Sam reads aloud. The town was set next to the mountains, already high in elevation. Snow tipped mountains can be spotted in the distance, along with the forrest that surrounds the town. It was a breath of fresh air, something that the city could never provide. Sam and Dean always enjoyed spots like this, calm, quiet, away from the city and everything that comes with it. However, they still have a worry about what comes out of the woods at night. As long as Baby is with them, they’re safe.

The diner smelt like beer and grilled food, almost making Dean’s mouth water from the aroma. Dean skips to the bar, with Sam trailing behind. Sam liked to see Dean this happy, after everything that’s happened, after everyone they’ve lost. Sam’s mind sometimes travels to what if they weren’t hunters anymore, what if they could stay in one town and life our their lives there. Before he thinks too much, he always snaps his head back to reality, and forces a smile.

Around 9pm the diner begins to get full. People coming in large groups ordering shots and getting drunk. Lights turn low and the music genre changes. “Guess this is the bar too.” Dean laughs, “I’m already loving this town.” Sam chuckles. “One drink won’t hurt.”

“What? Sammy wants to drink?” Dean is flabbergasted. Sam never drinks while on a case. Maybe a beer with some food but never hard liquor.

“I think it’s good to have a break every now and ya know, we can’t save the world all the time.” Sam says. Sam has been reminiscing about the past. What life was for the short period of time when he was in collage, with Jess. He’s been longing to be that happy again.

“Cheers to that.” Dean smiles, handing Sam a shot. He thinks about Lisa for a short moment before quickly downing 3 shots back to back. The liquor burned down his throat.

As the night ends, Sam and Dean decide it’s time to turn in. They will work tomorrow, finding out who’s the werwolf. As the boys are heading to Baby, a loud scream rips through the air. Even with the boys being a little drunk, they immediately snap out of it and run over to the sound, guns in hand. There lies a women on the floor with a bite mark on her neck.

“Vamps.” Sam grinds his teeth.

“thought you said it was a werwolf?” Dean raises an eyebrow.

“Not anymore.”

“Fucking vampires!” Dean throws his duffle bag onto the old motel bed. The aesthetic of this motel was actually very nice compared to previous ones. Walls were wooden, almost rustic looking. Plaid curtains cover the large window facing the woods. As they walked through the motel room, the wooden floor creaks below them.

“Yeah, tell me about it.” Sam sighs, running his large hand through his soft conditioned hair. He looks through their weapons bag. Dead man’s blood, syringes, machetes, silver bullets, and silver weapons. Seems about right.

“So first a werwolf, now a vampire. What the fuck is going on?!” Dean exclaims.

Sam’s brows furrow together, creating wrinkles on his forehead. “Maybe we should talk to the locals, they’re the ones who are only seeing things at night. I mean…all the sudden two killings back to back? That makes no sense.” The Winchesters turn in for the night, a long day of head of them tomorrow.

The boys hit up the local diner to begin the morning. Seems like at all times of the day the diner was busy. “Welcome to the diner…looks like we have some new faces here. Is it your first time visiting?” The waitress asks. Dean smiles “Yes it is. We are actually just following up on a murder, happened last night.” Sam and Dean show their badges.

“Wow the FBI is here for that? I’m pretty sure the police have already taken care of it.” The waitress continues to smile. “We never have any kind of stuff like that happen here, must have been some kind of freak accident.”

“Not too sure about that since there has been two killings in the last couple days. The boss just wanted us to investigate due to the nature of this town, weird sightings and all.” Dean smiles back. “Have you seen anything yourself?”

The waitress holds her notebook to her chest, looking up at the ceiling deep in thought. “I guess now that I think of it I do remember this one encounter. It was just a couple days ago. I was walking home one night and I seen blood on the side of the road. There, I see a large, like really large dog, wolf type of thing laying there, blood all around it. Maybe got hit by a car. Could have sworn it said help me. Like a human. Actually no I’m certain it said it.”

“A large dog?” Sam questions, “Did it look like a human or like an animal?”

“An animal, obviously.” I ended up taking him to the local veterinarian. Uh… Dr. (Y/N) if I remember correctly.”

“Then what?” Dean asks intrigued.

“Don’t know, the Doctor took the dog back and helped it….listen there is a lot of weird stuff in this town. However nothings has ever hurt us. We kinda just turn a blind eye to this kind of stuff. Everyone takes care of each other here. Nobody would kill anyone. We’ve just had some back luck recently. Freak accident.” She tries to reassure the Winchesters.

“Don’t you find it weird that two of the stories we have are both of a dog or wolf, but yet it was a vamp who murdered that girl last night?” Sam asks.

“Supernatural hotspot?” Dean inquires.

The Winchesters arrive at the animal hospital. The parking lot and lobby is dead, not a car in sight besides Baby, and a ford bronco. “Must be the Dr’s car.” Dean says. A small bell rings when they enter the hospital. A sterile smell fills the air, tiles on the floor recently waxed and cleaned. Colorful pastel walls surround them. A door behind the reception area opens, revealing a woman. “Hello, how can I help you?” The woman asks. Her (long/stort) (h/c) hair frames her face perfectly, matching her beautiful (e/c) eyes, making eye contact with Dean first. Her eyes quickly move away.

She wore (f/c) scrubs that were a little tight exposing all of her curves. Dean almost let out an audible gasp, his palms being to get sweaty, his confident demeanor loosening from the godess in front of them. You must be Dr. (Y/N)?” Sam speaks up clearing his throat since Dean was wordless. It’s not often for a woman to get Dean worked up as he is right now, just talking to her. Her voice was like music to his ears. Sexy, sweet, calming. He could listen to her talk all day long about nothing. (Y/N) slightly smiles, her soft, glossed lips touching making Dean drool imagining what those lips could do to him. “Yes I am, how can I help you?” She asks again. Dean needs to snap out of it.

“Yes uh my partner here and I are part of a wildlife rehabilitation rescue program. We had heard of an injured animal?” Dean quickly responds. (Y/N) seemed shocked, however she quickly covers her expression and puts on a smile once again. “Ah yes uh, nothing too bad of an injury, just a little scratch. They are back into the wild now, all safe and healthy.” She says a little too quick as well, almost acting like she is hiding something.

“Good to hear it is doing better. Would you be able to describe the animal for us to we can put out a watch for it?” Sam asks pulling out his notepad to write it down.

“It was a wolf. Just a typical wolf you’ll see from out these woods. You guys aren’t around here I’m assuming?” (Y/N) tries to end of the conversation, nervously twirling her hair.

“Unfortunately not. Have there been any other hurt animals? Any cattle mutilations? Or anything like that?” Dean asks, savoring the look of her. His eyes darken as he looks up and down her frame, taking in the sight of this beautiful woman. He loves a woman in scrubs.

“Stuff like that doesn’t happen here.” (Y/N) says defensively. “Do you have anymore questions for me or can I get back to my job?”

“No Doctor, that is all we needed. Thank you.” Sam smiles and nods his head. Sam and Dean end out of the hospital, looking at each other with a raised eye brow. (Y/N) let’s out a deep sigh, watching the boys get into their car and drive off.

“Hunters.” (Y/N) sighs and locks the door, picking up her phone to make a call. The encounter today with the strange men made (Y/N) nervous. She knows all the fake badges, stories, false identities, as she’s ran into these type of people before. She can take care of this town by herself, she has a special kind of help.

“The doctor is definitely hiding something.” Dean states, leaning against Baby.

Sam does the same, looking deep into thought. “What do you think? Should we wait for her to leave and look around? Who knows when there is another attack.”

“That’s wait her out. Maybe follow her home and then check the hospital out as well.” Dean explains.

In the afternoon they see Dr. (Y/N) leave. She’s out of her scrubs now, in casual denim jeans and a tight long sleeve shirt. “Here, let me check out the hospital while you follow her. I’ll call if I see anything; same with you.” Sam says, getting out of Baby with a duffle bag. Dean agrees, promising to pick him up after. Dean follows her car, she leads him to the bar and grill that he went to the night prior the murder took place. Dean watches as (Y/N) gets greeted by fellow people in the bar. He decides to play it cool and slip into the bar and go on the end unnoticed. The bar tender shares a shot or two with (Y/N) and they cheer. Dean scans the room but as he looks back at the seat (Y/N) was in; she’s gone.

“Hey, you.” A gentle tap on Dean’s shoulder makes him shudder, hearing that damn voice. Dean looks behind him and it’s the doctor. Caught him. Dean decides to play it cool.

“Didn’t want to wear your scrubs to the bar?” Dean chuckles, secretly wishing that she was.

She takes a seat next to him and waves over the bar tender. “On me.” She winks, sliding him a shot over. Dean accepts, looking at her as he takes it.

“Where’s your partner?” She asks, looking around the bar for the other man.

“Past his bedtime.” Dean laughs to himself. It really was past Sam’s bedtime.

The two continue to talk for what seems like forever. Dean almost forgot that he was on a case until he gets a phone call. “Hang on.”

“How’s it going over there?” Dean asks Sam on the phone.

“I think there’s something here. You should come over and take a look. How’s it going over there?” Sam asks.

“Not really anything. No murders yet-“ Dean stops after he hears a scream. “Shit hold on-“ Dean ends the phone call. He runs out to the outside of the bar and sees a body on the floor as (Y/N) stands over it. Dean pulls out his gun and aims it; “Hands up!” Dean yells.

“Wait!” (Y/N) yells, putting her hands in front of her, “I know you’re a hunter! You need to help me!”

“With what?-“ Dean once again gets cut off by something tackling him, trying to pin him onto the floor.

“Wait!! Wait!” (Y/N) screams at the figure. Dean notices it’s a wolf. A full on wolf. Its breath smelt like iron while its teeth snarl at Dean. The wolf whimpers looking at (Y/N) and then running away into the tree line. Dean stands up going to shoot, but it’s already gone.

“Ok what the hell is going on??” Dean questions angrily.

“We need to talk in private. There can be ears.” (Y/N) hushes Dean. “Let’s drive to the hospital.”

Dean sends Sam a quick text after 10 missed calls and text messages explaining that him and (Y/N) are about to come to the hospital. They get there after short minutes, Sam standing outside trying to look busy. (Y/N) face palms; of course the other hunter is here.

They follow (Y/N) to the treatment area in the hospital, guns loaded and ready to shoot. “Mind explaining to us what is going on? Are you a hunter as well?” Sam asks.

(Y/N) laughs- “Hunter? No, no I’m not. I’m just trying to keep my life peaceful and cordial with monsters. They saved me once ya know? So I’m trying to help them out. But there’s been a change in the last week. All the sudden they are being aggressive; killing people.”

Sam and Dean are mindblow. “I’m sorry what are you some monster doctor?” Dean jokes, not being able to imagine a remotely good monster out there.

“What do you mean by there’s been a change?” Sam asks.

“Like the wolf today. He’s a lap dog really, couldn’t hurt a fly. But he just tried to kill somebody! Happened three times now; all supernatural deaths.”

“Could someone be controlling the monsters? Monsters attacking each other?” Sam asks.

“Who could do that?” (Y/N) worriedly asks.

The new found team decides to go back to the motel for the remainder of the night as it is already almost 4 A.M. (Y/N) takes one bed while Sam takes the other and Dean is on the couch. The couch faces away from the beds not being able to see on it. Dean struggles to fall asleep that night. He couldn’t stop thinking of (Y/N). The way that her clothes fit her body so perfectly, exposing every single curve on her. His sweatpants begin to tighten as his dick pulsates. Dean knows what he’s doing is wrong but he can’t help it- and hey maybe it will help him sleep too. He hears a small sleepy moan come from (Y/N), his heart races. He peaks his head over the couch, looking at the bed she is in. The sheets are halfway off the bed. She had stripped her jeans and was in just panties- naughty girl. It’s clear that her bra was also taken off. Dean makes out her nipples slightly hard underneath her tight shirt. He begins to palm his boner, eyes rolling back as he imagines it’s (Y/N) doing it. He can’t handle being confined anymore in his sweats; he takes off his sweats and underneath in one swift motion, just barely past his upper thigh. His dick pops up, feeling free. Dean moans in relief as he strokes himself faster. He cups his balls with one hand and massages them as precum begins to slick his slit getting close. He could imagine (Y/N) stroking it with her soft hands, going up and down. He could imagine her plump lips kissing his tip, and sliding his dick down her throat, choking on it. His toes begin to curl as he gets closer to his climax, his hand movements becoming sloppy. With one more pass over his tip, his cum shoots down onto himself, covering his hands and happy trail. Dean sighs in contentment- but ultimately goes to shame. He quickly runs to the bathroom and washes himself clean of his sin- returning to go back to bed.

[yanderes-galore]

Hello! I'd like a Dredge (DBD) concept, please!

This is another case where the pairing is dubious as... this is yet another eldritch entity?

Yandere! The Dredge Concept

Pairing: Dubious

Possible Trigger Warnings: Gender-Neutral Darling, Stalking, Violence, Blood, Murder, Cults, Dubious intentions towards Darling.

In its lore, The Dredge is considered an entity that feeds off dark thoughts.

So much so a cult was secretly dedicated to it, under the guise of Utopia.

The intentions this being would have towards you is... unreadable.

It is a being no one can quite comprehend.

Death by it may be a mercy.

But catching its attention? Having it follow you around like a bad omen?

An entirely new hell.

Perhaps you were once part of the Ottomarian cult due to a family member or maybe you went there alone.

This could be where you first encounter the creature.

You were once such an impressionable sheep, one that wanted to get away from the stresses of everyday life.

Instead, your fate was sealed in blood and rot.

Your time in the cult was fine at first, blindly listening to the teachings of Otto.

But it wasn't long before the creature, The Dredge... "The Druanee"... reared its ugly head before you.

Its presence always brings darkness.

When near you, it messes with your senses.

It lurks, it stalks, it watches you with unknown interest.

You are a member its taken special interest in.

Its presence always lingers before going back into the foggy swamp of the island.

You swear you're conjuring it.

Maybe you're thinking bad thoughts?

You need to be happy just as Otto says.

All smiles.

Yet fellow members keep disappearing.

There isn't much you can do to deny it.

Otto keeps you and other members up, punishing you all for conjuring such a beast.

You're not allowed to sleep, your head hurts, you feel guilt.

Yet things never stop... people keep dying....

The Dredge keeps following you as though you're attached.

You're so scared.

You're so tired.

Your feelings never go away, its like the being enjoys them.

You stay in your hut, scared to go outside.

But you know it's out there.

Things hit a peak when Otto kills a reporter in front of you all, only for the reporter to tell you and everyone it's all a lie.

Then everyone started killing each other.

You had run so fast away from the carnage.

The stench of blood and screams of violence make you ill.

You run into the woods, subconsciously fleeing to that damn swamp.

Only for The Dredge, the damned beast, to manifest from the mud.

Its form is incomprehensible, being an amalgamation of body parts, both human and animal.

Its glazed over eyes stare down at you, taking in your rapid breaths and tears.

It's covered in blood, it's the very thing that's been hunting you all down.

You're tired, so tired, you can't even bring yourself to scream anymore....

The beast comes closer, you find yourself laying in the mud to accept your death.

Weren't you brought here to die...?

You want it to be quick....

....

....

You aren't dead.

In fact, you aren't even tired anymore.

... are you dead?

You wake up in a realm that you couldn't even dream of.

A realm of darkness, a twisted house of many lockers and strange rooms in an even stranger land of red clouds.

You swear you hear footsteps, children laughing as you explore.

It's an amalgamation of locations....

Just like that damn beast.

Speaking of said beast, in this place, you feel a familiar feeling of darkness.

Was this its domain?

Or something else?

Regardless, your senses, your instincts...

They tell you to run.

You don't ignore such a call, running through the warped garden like your life depended on it.

Far as you know, it does.

There's times you catch glimpses of the beast.

Its malformed appearance stalks you through the darkness.

When you think you're safe, lockers burst open with many tiny hands.

You're in your own personal hell.

Is this a punishment?

Do you deserve this?

You can only run so far before the beast corners you.

Its gaping mouth drools, its bloodshot eyes trained on you.

You swear you hear screams.

Giggles...

Hellish sounds.

Then you wake up beside a campfire.

You pant in fear, only to see many other faces staring at you.

This cycle, this pattern, you get used to it.

You grow used to this realm, seeing all sorts of areas within it.

You pray you never see that creature ever again.

But nevertheless, you're sent back to that Garden of Joy...

More often than you should, really.

It's like some being forces you to encounter the monster.

To see it and its many hands.

To force you to lock lockers, just so it can break free.

Something likes to see you suffer.

Something likes to see the beast pleased.

You are its favorite prey.

You are its favorite to hunt.

The Dredge likes to see you suffer, it likes to see your pain.

It likes to see your fear.

It likes to see you beg.

You may be getting better at evading it, but that dreaded darkness consumes your senses.

There's no escape, ever since you came to that island with Otto your fate was sealed.

You are prey...

You are meant to be hunted... You belong to the beast... Forced into damnnation in this Garden of Joy.

[mymoodwriting]

5.2k, android!Key, yandere, possessive behavior, alcohol consumption, drug use, police investigation, missing persons case, manipulation, loss of time, amnesia, delusions, adrenaline, rash behavior, kidnapping, needles, sedation, invasive technology, smut, fingering, breast play, penetration, vibrators, aphrodisiac, over stimulation, memory play, brainwashing, mind control (@starillusion13)

“Please, come back soon.”

Your eyes shot open and you took in a shaky breath. As you composed yourself you recognized your surroundings to be your room and the lack of sunlight let you know it was still night time. You reached over to your phone on the nightstand, checking the time. You groaned as you realized your alarm would go off in a minute and decided to just get up. Oddly enough you felt well rested, but this vague uneasiness was present. A dream you just had lingered in the back of your mind, but it was nothing but a blur that was fading away. There was no point in dwelling on a dream so you got ready for work.

What you should have been focusing on was your current case, and that’s what stayed at the forefront of your mind as you made your commute to the precinct. For the last week you had been investigating the disappearance of some individuals of interest. Unfortunately hundreds of people were reported missing everyday, but law enforcement rarely cared about those. Many were homeless junkies who probably just move to another city, or were later found dead of an overdose somewhere. Others were just average people who probably left without telling their loved ones. Or got mixed up with the wrong type of people. At least that was always one of the answers given to those who made a missing persons report. 

It was extremely heartless, but most officers had murder cases and high-end robberies to investigate. Except for this situation. You had been given a missing persons case, well, multiple in fact. These people weren’t your average blue collar worker or someone society cared little for, but someone whose disappearance was concerning. From the stack of files on your desk you actually recognized a few names. These types of people don’t just go missing, and there haven’t been ransom calls either. It seemed clear that someone was targeting the wealthy class, but that was the only real connection among all the victims. Many of these people never really crossed paths with one other. They all had different backgrounds, professions, and social circles. The only place these people could possibly co-exist together was at big events like a charity auction or gala. Which does nothing to help identify a suspect. You had very little to go off of but your boss was certainly pressuring you to find something since those related to the missing individuals of the case were pressuring him. You could only imagine the type of threats and incentives he was receiving.

As you walked into the precinct you greeted your coworkers, although a few gave you strange looks. You ignored them all, wanting to look over your case and see if you had any new leads, or new names to add to it. When you got to your desk you saw that it was a complete mess, likely someone going through your things, and clearly some files were missing. You wouldn’t be surprised to find out one of your coworkers wanted to solve this before you to get a promotion or some kind of extra reward. Some of the others had wanted this case, but it was given to you regardless of what your coworkers said. This was just childish behavior. For now you focused on tidying up and then hunting down your missing files. You started by going over the case data on your computer and getting rid of unnecessary things. Although before you got to the second part of that plan one of your friends came over, rather surprised to see you.

“There you are. About time you came back to work, how was your vacation?”

“What are you talking about?”

“You’ve been gone for two weeks. The boss said you suddenly asked for vacation time. He was super pissed but you were unreachable so he had to give your case to someone else. You’re gonna get an earful soon enough.”

“What vacation are you talking about? I was literally here yesterday and-”

You glanced down at your computer screen, finally noting the date displayed. It really was two weeks later, but those two weeks didn’t exist in your memory. You just went to bed last night and woke up in the future.

“Y/n! My office, now!”

“Looks like it’s time for that scolding. Good luck.”

Your friend scurried off and you made your way to the boss’ office. You shut the door behind you, feeling the heat in the air, he was certainly fuming.

“Sir, I-”

“I know you’re a hard worker y/n, which is why I gave you such a high profile case. So tell me why you ghosted me and took two weeks off! This case is time sensitive and extremely important! Do you have any idea what’s been going on!?”

“No. Not at all. I don’t remember what happened to me the last-”

“So you were out getting wasted?”

“No, I-”

“There are so many people with eyes on this case, important people. You think they were happy to find out the lead investigator went M.I.A and someone else had to start over with this!?”

“Sir, I’m also-”

“They want you dismissed.”

“What?”

“You abandoning such a case doesn’t sit well with anyone who was keeping up with it. They want you to turn in your badge and gun.”

“You’re joking, right? I have been missing for two weeks and you couldn’t care less! I never submitted a time off request and I have no memory of those two weeks!”

“What are you talking about? I have your request in the system, and I never even approved it!”

“Sir, please, just listen to me. You know me, I don’t drink, I don’t do drugs, but I’m missing time. When I woke up this morning I found out two weeks had passed, and I don’t know what’s going on. This could be related to the case.”

“How so?”

“Like you said, this is a high profile case, it’s not really a secret who’s working on it. I was out investigating last night, or two weeks ago, however you want to look at it. I was following a common route one of our victims was known to take. I was in an area filled with high profile people and then… then… everything’s a blur… I woke up this morning and that’s it.”

“What are you thinking?”

“I’m not entirely sure… maybe I was kidnapped and interrogated… either by the culprit or someone who wanted information on the case… then they wiped my memory and dropped me off at home…”

“Y/n, you know-”

“I know, I know, this is all speculation, but you know I’m telling the truth. I’m missing time, and surely my sudden disappearance disrupted the case. It’s probably what they wanted.”

“Y/n-”

“I can do a drug test. You know it’ll come back clean, and I can get a brain scan. Surely there would be some sort of evidence of my memories being messed with and-”

“Stop, y/n, just stop. Everything you’ve said so far sounds crazy, and nobody’s gonna care. Someone else has already taken the case, and you do need to be reprimanded for your actions.”

“I’m not crazy! Something happened to me and it could be crucial to the case!”

“You’re already off the case. Whatever you have, you need to hand over to detective Choi. Then we’ll see about a disciplinary hearing.”

“No!”

“No? This isn’t open for discussion.”

“I’m not crazy! Something happened to me and I went missing! But because I’m not some member of high society you all couldn’t care less!”

“You keep talking to me like that and there won’t be a disciplinary hearing!”

“I don’t need one! None of you seem to care about what happened here, so screw you! I quit!”

You slammed your gun and badge down, loudly storming out of the office. Everyone watched as you went to your desk and grabbed your things. Then your friend quickly came over to your side, stopping you.

“Woah, woah, hey,hey,  what happened!? Are you okay? I heard-”

“I’m done.”

“You don’t mean-”

“I do. I quit.”

“What!? Why!?”

“Cause no one listens to me.”

“About what? You just got back from your-”

“No, no I didn’t. I wasn’t on some two week getaway. I don’t remember anything from those last two weeks. The last thing I remember was investigating those disappearances and instead of concern I’m met with disappointment and disciplinary action. So screw everyone, I quit. I hope they find those missing rich kids.”

“Y/n, don’t you think this is rash? Look, just go apologize to the boss and-”

“Can you do me a favor?”

“What is it?”

“If I do go missing, add my case to the others. I’m sure there’ll be a connection.”

With that said you made your way out of the precinct, not looking back. The adrenaline of the moment kept you going until you made it back to your apartment. You screamed and threw your things once the door was closed, collapsing to the ground. Now you could look back and reflect on your actions, realizing how stupid and impulsive they were. You had no idea why you reacted that way. Everything that was said just pissed you off little by little until you snapped and quit. In the moment that felt so good, but now you were just so confused about your emotions and actions. It didn’t seem like you at all.

Once you calmed down you got up and went to shower, needing to clear your head and process. The sane thing to do was go back and apologize, but you couldn’t do that, at least not empty handed. You had to continue this investigation without any information or authority. Thankfully you still had some case files at your place along with your own notes to look over. Although you didn’t necessarily need them. You knew where you needed to go. Back to where your memories ended. You had to admit you were a bit nervous. The last time you went out you lost time, a lot of it. You didn’t know what happened to you, and you also had no idea why you returned. To go back now, there was a chance you wouldn’t return at all. Still, you needed answers, and this was your job, even if it was just a moral obligation now.

You cleaned around your apartment and organized all the information you had about the case, getting rid of anything that wasn’t important and leaving it in your spare room. It was starting to get late and you knew you had to get going. The area you had been to before was only alive when the sun went down. You grabbed your bag and headed out. There was a strange sense of familiarity as you walked the streets, passing the same places again and again, although it was strange remembering you had been here two weeks ago and not yesterday. Things felt different and the same all at once. You kept to yourself as you walked, mentally going over what you had done before, and then you stopped. Where you stood was as far as your memories went. You had no idea where you went next or what you did. So you were stuck. You looked around, trying to see if anything triggered a memory.

“If you’re looking for a good time, you can find it at the Pleasure Shop.”

A gentleman suddenly approached you and handed you a black card with a luxurious letter ‘P’ on it. You examined the card and looked at the gentleman, a strange sense of dejavu creeping into the back of your mind. There was something familiar about this whole interaction. The gentleman kept a smile on his face, gesturing to a building across the street. You looked over and when you looked back you were completely alone. The streets were empty and the night was quiet. Something told you to go to this Pleasure Shop, so you made your way there. The building was very dull, it didn’t stand out in any way and was probably constantly overlooked. Even the shop name above the door was small and blended with the plain wall. You looked for a handle but there wasn’t one. Instead there was a small scanner. It wasn’t big enough for a whole hand, and too small for a simple finger print, but you soon realized it was the perfect size for a business card, like the one you had just been given.

You placed the card against the scanner, hearing the machine do its thing before beeping twice. You could hear something unlock and then the door slid open. There was a dim light coming from the inside. It probably wasn’t a good idea to enter, but something compelled you to do so. You stepped through the door, cautious with every move you made. As you walked forward the door shut behind you. Before things got darker the place came to life. White lights came on, illuminating your surroundings and your path. On the other end of the room there was a bar and a bartender, as well as a small little couch and table off to the side. There was only one seat at the bar, which was certainly an odd choice. You took small steps forward and then came to a stop. The bartender was motionless, and now that you were closer you could see the wires and tech on them, they were an android, and not just that. They had the same face as the gentleman who had handed you the card for this place earlier. It was probably a business tactic but something certainly felt off here, along with a stronger sense of dejavu.

“Welcome back.”

The android suddenly speaking startled you, making you yell and take a step back. They still hadn’t moved though. Although those simple words made you question something.

“… back? Have I been here before?”

You got no response. It was likely the android was programmed to say that to all customers and it meant nothing but now you had to approach the bar if you wanted any more information. You did so quietly, and took the only seat available to you. The android merely took its hands off the table, letting them rest at their side, not a word spoken. You stared curiously for a moment then a realization came to mind. You held out the card you had been given and the android came to life.

They took the card and scanned it, their right eye glowing a soft blue. They placed the card down on their side of the bar and turned around to grab a glass from the wall behind them. You didn’t understand the design as there was no alcohol visible and all the glasses on the wall were empty. Still, you watched as the android placed an empty glass before you. Although it wasn’t empty for long. As they slid it across to you it seemed to magically fill from the bottom with a mercury colored liquid. Your eyes went wide, and then the memories came flooding in.

Two weeks ago you had been in the area looking around for leads when you had been approached by a gentleman offering you a card to the Pleasure Shop. It sounded like some club, and you figured it was a good place to go and ask about your missing persons. When you saw the building you definitely thought it was some high-end place that was meant to be on the down low. Especially when you realized the only way in was by scanning the card you had been given, meaning this place was invite only, definitely something the wealthy class would partake in. You went inside, finding a place with no business and feeling like you hit a dead end, but your detective side told you not everything was what it seemed. You walked to the bar, realizing the bartender was an android with a familiar face. Probably some marketing strategy and budget restraint. You took a seat, asking the bartender for a drink but they didn’t move, which you found odd. Then you thought to pull out the card and explain but the android soon came to life and took the card from you, scanning it. 

Now you were intrigued, moreso when you noticed the layout behind the bar. You were very confused about the empty glass handed to you until a liquid appeared on its own. You stared at it for a moment, looking at the bartender but they were motionless, not even looking your way. You figured you should at least enjoy the drink so you picked it up and held the glass to your lips. The drink had a lovely taste, and you had it all at once. Just as you put the glass down you began to feel dizzy. For a second you were worried and then a breathtaking euphoria took over all your senses. You felt so at ease, and so happy, all your worries completely washed away. You nearly fell out of your seat, but you vaguely noticed the bartender holding you up before taking you into their arms and carrying you elsewhere. In the moment you couldn’t put the pieces together, but you were absolutely on cloud nine. When you closed your eyes you found yourself somewhere completely different and beautiful, feeling as if you were living in a perfect world. There was no pain, or sadness, nothing but joy and endless wonder.

Time had no meaning, not that it mattered. You thought this could last forever, but eventually you laid down on the beautiful meadow. The soft grass becoming solid. You suddenly found it hard to move, your entire body feeling cold. The beautiful blue sky began to fade from your vision, replaced by a white light hanging above your head. You shook your head, reality starting to settle back in, and you were trying to properly snap out of this daze as soon as possible. You soon realized you were strapped down on a table, arms and legs restrained. You tried to free yourself to no avail. You took in your surroundings, noticing your things spread out on a table nearby, and some medical equipment around. This seemed to be some sort of lab. Then you heard a door open, seeing the android walk in with a tray.

“Who are you!? What do you think you’re doing!? Let me go!”

The android set the tray down on a cart nearby, bringing it over. You could see a needle and some tech but you had no idea what it was for. Either way, you were nervous.

“I am the keeper of exquisite beauty, but you may call me Key.”

“Who’s doing this!? Where is your owner!?”

“I move independently and follow my primary directive. May I ask, what is a detective such as yourself doing in the area? Law enforcement is rarely seen in these parts. Does it have to do with the missing persons case? Record shows you are the detective in charge.”

“I was investigating! This is kidnapping and obstruction of justice!”

“I’ve never had a detective here before, but I care more for your beauty than profession. You are an exquisite specimen indeed, although I understand your career can lead to problems.”

“Exactly! If you don’t let me right now you’ll have my entire precinct on you!”

“Which is why I have already taken care of such matters. No one will be looking for you for quite some time. That is enough for me to take care of matters pertaining to you.”

“… what?”

“I don’t usually let such a wonderful specimen leave my care but you are a special case. I must tie up loose ends and ensure you return to me.”

“… what are you talking about? What are you gonna do to me?”

“Nothing harmful. I take very good care of my things.”

“I’m not some thing! And I’m definitely not yours!”

Key grabbed the needle on the cart, filing it with some liquid before looking for a vein on your arm. You tried to struggle, but he seemed completely unbothered and managed to hold your arm still as he pushed the needle in. All you could do was watch the contents be emptied out into you.

“What is that!? What did you give me!?”

“A sedative.”

Key put the needle down, grabbing the other items off the tray. Now you could see what they were. It was similar in design to what he had, like a headset, but less complicated. He gently lifted your head and adjusted the device on you. It wrapped around the back of your head and stayed in place by hooking onto your ears, although a disc seemed to completely cover your left ear. You had kept up your struggles but now you had little to no strength. You heard this device on you come to life, feeling something slither into your left ear. You screamed and tried to shake it off you but Key grabbed your head holding you still. His right eye glowing once more.

“It is a momentary discomfort.”

You felt strange knowing something was crawling around the inside of your head, but you soon adjusted to the sensation, beginning to feel oddly calm. Perhaps the sedation was really taking hold.

“Good, now we may continue.”

Key’s hands moved down your body, and that’s when you realized you were in different clothes. It seemed to be a white hospital gown, although this one had buttons going down your right side. He began to undo them and open the gown, revealing your naked body. He took in the sight before him, seeming to enjoy the view as a satisfied smile appeared on his lips.

“Beautiful.”

You heard a click and then felt Key pushing your legs apart, having them hang off the side of the table. Now you were completely exposed to him. Key unlatched a part of the table and folded it down, allowing him better access to you. Soon enough you felt cold fingers running along your core, followed by a little shock to your clit. You jumped a bit, still held down by your restraints.

“An exquisite specimen indeed. My data shows this would be a first time for you, I am honored.”

“No… no I…”

“There’s no need to be shy. A profession like yours would not leave you with much time to socialize.”

You felt his fingers along your center once more, and then one effortlessly slid in, coated in some warm lube. It was a new sensation, especially when you felt his finger start vibrating. It was a low thrum but a pleasurable one nonetheless. His finger moved agonizingly slow, as if he was being delicate with you. Then a second finger was added, the same wonderful thrum sending ripples of joy across your body. With two fingers he managed to go deeper, finding your sweet spot and starting to tease that. One sensation was piled atop another and another. Despite being exposed, despite the coldness of the lab, you felt warm. A little bundle of heat forming down below, slowly growing and growing.

“I have something more for you.”

You barely registered Key’s words, more focused on the sudden empty feeling inside you. Although that didn’t last before you felt something bigger against your core. You glanced down just as you saw Key pushing in his cock. He was slow and attentive, not wanting to cause you pain. The stretch made you throw your head back in ecstasy, feeling something indescribable. This was your first, and he was so gentle. As he went in inch by inch, you began to feel a familiar thrum, letting out a desperate moan. You felt as if he would keep going forever, but eventually he came to a stop, letting you feel every bit of him and adjust before he started moving. Of course he had such patience to move slow and steady, nearly pulling out all the way before going right back in.

Vibrating fingers began to trail along your body, making you squirm and lightly pull on your restraints. You still didn’t have much strength to move, not that you’d want to get away from this. As his fingers reached your nipples you mewled, feeling the vibrations tickling something delicate inside you. He stayed there for a moment before one of his hands trailed up to your face, losing their vibration. He ran his thumb along your lips before pushing a finger into your mouth. A sweet taste coated it and you couldn’t help but suck on it like a lollipop. You were starting to feel dizzy as he swirled his finger around before pulling it out with a loud pop. That same finger trailed down your chest, leaving a cold trail of your saliva before getting down to your core and massaging your clit, that wonderful thrum returning.

By now Key was moving faster, the vibrations stronger. The heat was only getting bigger and bigger, meaning you were so close to the edge. Key was well aware of this, yet he unlocked the restraints on your arms and pulled you up closer to him. You could see his face through hazy vision, seeing that satisfied grin still present. He kept a steady rhythm regardless of his pace. That was the thing about sex androids. Their stamina was endless and if you let them, you’d be completely at their mercy. That’s exactly where you were, having completely forgotten just what kind of predicament you were in. By now your body lazily moved with his, wanting to get as much pleasure as you could. He kept an arm wrapped around your waist, the other down between your legs before moving it away and caressing your face.

“Cum.”

It was a command your body had no choice but to obey. You felt yourself fall over the edge, throwing your head back as your eyes rolled to the back of your head. Your entire body shook in his grasp, squeezing him tightly as he kept moving and the vibrations continued to shake your sensitive self. Not to mention the other sensations. You swear your vision went white, but it wasn’t for a moment. All the right things were firing off, overwhelming you with this euphoric feeling, but there was no coming down from it. The same sensation kept playing in your body over and over again for a good minute, as if you were going through one orgasm after another and another. It was a feedback loop of pleasure that left you with your mouth hanging open and drool dripping down onto your chest.

The feeling did eventually settle down and you found yourself resting your head against Key’s chest, breathing heavily and very overstimulated. He had stopped his movements, everything still, but he remained inside you. As you were coming down from your high Key grabbed your chin and lifted your head to meet his gaze. You couldn’t see clearly but a stupid smile decorated your lips. Now that you were getting back to yourself you began to remember the circumstances that brought you here. You tried to move away, but your strength wasn’t there, and the smallest move just sent tingles along your body, hitting you with just a fraction of what you had just experienced. It was hard to do anything, and once Key noticed you regaining your senses you felt a subtle thrumming between your legs. A shaky moan escaped you, still very sensitive after that experience. Yet, you had some sense of self.

“Wat… what are you… doing…?”

“Providing pleasure. You see when humans achieve orgasm, for that small little moment the mind is blank. No worries, no pain, just pleasure. The little device on your head is monitoring your brain waves with the intention of learning how to mimic that blissful state of mind. It managed to do so a moment ago. That seemingly endless orgasm as it kept those particular neurons in your brain firing. Of course it takes a bit to perfect, but we have plenty of time.”

“… you… you did this… to others… didn’t you…”

“My beautiful specimens need to be taken care of. My drinks are nothing compared to the bliss of a blank mind.”

“… why… how… how are you…”

“Like I said before, I’m the keeper of exquisite beauty. I don’t care for status.”

“… that means… others…”

“When I see a wonderful specimen I will have them. Although, when it comes to you, I need to do more. You have valuable information, and there’s something I need you to do for me.”

“… what…?”

You didn’t get a response as Key pressed his lips to yours. That sweet taste from before hitting your tongue and making your mind fuzzy. You were in too deep, and Key wasn’t going to let you get away.

You yelled and jumped out of your seat, stepping away from the bar. You were breathing heavily as the memories settled in, showing you the truth. You couldn’t believe it, you didn’t want to believe it, but every ounce of your being was telling this was real. This whole time Key had merely been watching you, silently. You knew you needed to leave this place, you needed to leave this place now.

“Sit.”

Key’s voice startled you out of your own thoughts. His eye was glowing again, and something inside you seemed to calm down. After a moment your body moved on its own, going back over to the bar and sitting down. You were terrified. Even if you remembered being in this place, remembered what Key had done to you, there were still gaps in your memory.

“Did you do as I asked?”

“… yes…”

Your lips moved on their own, and you had no idea what he was asking about, but you knew what the correct answer was.

“You quit your job?”

“Yes.” Your eyes went wide. “How-”

“And destroyed all the vital data from your case?”

“Yes.” You were starting to panic. “What does this-”

“No one will be able to track you here, correct?”

“Yes.”

“Good girl.” Key pushed the drink closer to you. “Drink.”

Your mind was racing, yet your hand moved to grab the glass, lifting it off the table. You fought against your body, the adrenaline in your system filing you with panic.

“You… you… your responsible for all the missing-”

“They’re in good hands. As are you, now drink.”

You couldn’t stop yourself from placing the glass against your lips and tilting it up, opening your mouth to welcome the sweet liquid. As soon as the glass hit the table you felt dizzy, trying to fight against this feeling, but it was all too familiar, and comforting, and so wonderfully rewarding. A smile spread across your lips before you collapsed onto the bar table. Entering a blissful dream you wouldn’t wake up from again. Key watched on with a smile on his face. Another exquisite beauty for his collection.

[theinfiknight]

What if the characters of Discworld were Avatars of the 15 fears from the Magnus Archives?

Now, just a disclaimer, this is just my personal opinion of which character would best fit the bill. Regardless if you agree or disagree, feel absolutely free to do so either way. Also, obvious spoilers for the books excepting Shepherd's Crown and Raising Steam.

The Web:

This one is obvious and can be no one other than Lord Vetinari himself. An absolute master of subtle manipulation and long term planning, Vetinari is the perfect Avatar of the Web. He creates a reputation of pervasive fear and makes people believe that he could do away with them at a whim, despite him never once killing a single person who wasn't an irredeemable criminal of some sort, and even then usually giving them chances to redeem themselves first. This being the case, I'd say Lady Margolotta is also an Avatar, and the one who exposed Havelock to the Web in the first place.

The Hunt:

The most stereotypical aspect of the Hunt is manifested most by Wolfgang von Uberwald, the textbook Hunter who chases and kills for the thrill of it. Both Sam Vimes and Angua hear the call of the Blood, but both refuse to heed it, and so aren't Avatars. I'd argue that there's another Avatar of the Hunt fulfilling the other role, created by the Hunt to be the perpetually hunted, the never caught but ever pursued white stag/ golden doe, the one, though not only, Rincewind.

The Eye:

One Avatar is Jeannie and every Kelda before and after her. The Kelda sees everything and knows what has happened and what will. The alternate answer is Blind Io, given his literal eyeballs that float around and also that he's cognizant of everything that goes on in the Disc, and that everyone knows he's watching.

The Spiral:

The Elf Queen. The undisputed master of illusion and deception, creating false worlds that operate on her rules, trapping people in unreal dreams they cannot escape, making them see and believe what she wants them to see and believe. Bel Shamharoth is also a possible answer given how he distorts the senses and feeds on those he traps.

The Buried:

Albrecht Albrechtsson. Knockermen are undoubtedly Avatars of the Buried, with the complex stew of fear and reverence they feel for the underground, and Albrecht is the lowest among them. Agi Hammerthief is probably the only fully realised Avatar of the Buried, who dwells beneath the Disc where no one will ever reach him.

The Flesh:

The Igors and Nutt. The Igors for obvious reasons, their affinity for tinkering with bodies, and their indisputable understanding of the fact that meat is meat, and as such can be used for a lot more than its original intention. Nutt because he is a creation of said tinkering, flesh made warped, with a living engine of meat inside him.

The End:

Mort and Bill Door, and possibly every zombie. This really needs no explanation. Mort stepping into his Master's role is the textbook descent of a human into Avatarhood, developing strange powers and slowly becoming Other. I'm not counting Death because he is the personification of the thing and isn't human enough to qualify as an Avatar, and I'm not counting Susan because she never carried out the Duty.

The Slaughter:

Carcer, the Gonne, and Cohen the Barbarian. Carcer killed for the fun of it with no care for reasoning, consequence or morality. He WAS a one man slaughter by himself. Cohen's existence was also very similar to Carcer's, albeit he killed far more people and lived by a Code that ensured that though he mass murdered on the regular, he always did it with the same honesty as a man hunting for his next meal. As such perhaps Cohen was more an impersonal personification of the Slaughter like the Piper rather than an Avatar of it. The Gonne was more an a artifact that channeled the Slaughter into whoever held it, be it D'Eath, Cruces or even Vimes.

The Corruption:

Vorbis and the Cunning Man. Vorbis absolutely embodies the toxicity and insidious creeping infestation of the Corruption. He pollutes organisations and people, changing them and turning them into versions of himself, utilising extremely unhealthy relationship dynamics in order to do so, creating an atmosphere ripe with fear, desperation and despair. The Cunning Man is similar except his method of corruption is more direct than Vorbis's ie literally taking over the body of his victim while subtly influencing the minds of those around him when he's less corporeal. His presence is filth of the mind and stench of the soul, and incites disgust and fear among those aware of his true nature.

The Stranger:

I had some trouble with this but finally decided on Susan and Lu Tze. Although one would intuitively put Susan under The End, in practice the characteristics she actually exhibits line up more with the Stranger. She walks unseen among others, unknown in the places she passes through, never usually staying very long in one place unless that happens to be her dwelling at that time. Her presence unsettles people. She doesn't fit in among others and has always been set apart. She's too undead to be truly alive and too alive to be truly undead. The only people who really know her are Death and Time. To everyone else, she's a stranger they see sometimes.

And Lu Tze, of course, is just the Sweeper. No one knows the first thing about him apart from the fact that he happens to be there. He's a part of the background of whenever he is. If anyone ever truly Looked at him, and actually noticed what they saw, that he's in fact a stranger in their midst, the first words out of their mouths would be "I do not know you"

The Desolation:

Stratford, Spider the Rat King, and Ipslore the Red. Stratford was a motherfucker who would bleed every last drop before abandoning the corpse he created. This was a bastard who, wishing to cause Vimes as much pain as he could, chose to target his son rather than seek him out directly. A man after the Desolation's own heart. Spider was out for everything the humans had. It wanted their utter ruin and destruction and was well on its way to achieving it. And Ipslore attempted to destroy the whole world with his resentment, using and abusing his own son as his instrument to do so, and would have succeeded too, if it weren't for some idiot with a half brick in a sock.

The Extinction:

The Things from the Dungeon Dimensions. The Extinction is the end of the rule of Man and their replacement with the horrifying Other. And there's nothing that fits that description better than the Things from the Dungeon Dimensions, constantly seeking to bring about exactly what the Fear is.

The Lonely:

This was difficult to decide as well, but I believe the First Tooth Fairy might qualify. Living literally locked up in a bubble separate from the rest of reality, it lives apart from everyone and everything else, keeping alone for all eternity. Additionally, I believe that every living witch(with the exception of Nanny Ogg) carries a piece of the Lonely inside them. Its influence never goes away, and those who succumb to it are the ones who become cacklers.

The Vast:

Tiffany Aching and, funnily enough, a Simon once again. Tiffany's primary source of power is that she is, at her core, something far bigger than herself. She may be just Tiffany but she is also Land under Wave, the power and will of millions of years of life before her. At her most powerful she is aware of EVERYTHING, from the bones of the flint beneath the chalk to time itself to the stars being born in the distant sky. She is small but she is also Vast. And Simon sees the whole universe and truly understands what he's looking at. He sees and understands more than he can express and his knowledge of the Vast almost approaches comprehension.

The Dark:

The one, though once again not only, Samuel Vimes. There couldn't be any other answer here. The dark walks with him. He was born in it, moulded by it... By the time he saw the light it was nothing more than BLINDING. But yeah, he is most at peace in the true dark in the pissing rain on the cobbles, even before he was literally possessed by the living darkness itself. The dark aids him and talks to him. The dwarfs and the goblins may live in the dark, but Sam Vimes looked into the Abyss, and he wasn't the one who blinked.

[katyahina]

It is really interesting to speculate about the meaning of this.. Messengers are associated with the dreaming Hunters and the Dream, but what if those of them who are too far from the Dream are under a lot of strain and the image of the nice person that cared for them is just the only thing they can rely on?

^ In regards to Doll being a 'vessel' of Moon Presence in some regard, this reminds me of Crawlers, other Nightmare creatures! Their larger variants have multiple Messengers sticking out of their guts. I have a personal headcanon on them, but imagine: whereas Winter Lanterns imitate the Doll (and by doing so, Moon Presence), Crawlers are meant to imitate corpse of Kos with the ripped guts. Both are sort of mockery from the Great Ones. A sort of punishment maybe, because if Messengers are souls of the deceased, could Messengers crampled into Crawlers or Winter Lanterns be somehow "failed" spirits? Ones that are yet still to "atone", or, in the case of Moon Presence, ones not taking part in the cycle of the Hunt for one reason or another?

(Retranslation script I always use: ( x ) Internal filenames: ( x ))

Hunters of Hunters had reasons to believe in "proper" burial that further connected to the Hunter's Dream, and Winter Lanterns are referred to be 'failed' Messengers! It might be extention of that fucked up concept of people being cursed for not being properly buried in the eyes of whatever God.

Doll and Gehrman both have interesting connection with the Nightmare Realm, too! Gehrman, strangely, shares the cry with Orphan of Kos, but even if that's to be blamed on simple reuse of assets he still more strangely feels relief after OoK is freed! Whatever prompted that link but who is to tell that spiritual connection with a Great One he helped to torture would not guarantee his own negative emotions helped to give "shape" to Nightmare? It is a lot of power, and the Doll is probably a horrible memory. Maybe the blood and guts' on the dress of Winter Lanterns is a reflection of his pain, memory of an innocent person he trained to be a ruthless murderer, thus ruining that soft version of her and... it didn't end well for Maria, did it?

Alllllright, and before I devolved into a crying cat meme- Doll, strangely, is asleep sometimes, which a doll should not... need? Meanwhile, we find Maria asleep too. I've always loved the idea of their spiritual connection where when one is asleep another is awake, and vice-versa! Ideally, Maria would die and be "reborn" within the Doll, in a way. Could be a spiritual thing of latching onto an object that resembles you (Doll also has Maria's brooch, boots and ribbon but in her hat now ( x )). Or could be Moon Presence's way to further "glorify" her as one of the greatest Hunters. Because, she is Flora of the Hunt. In any case, Kos said no, so Maria's soul is in two states... Winter Lanterns are amalgamation of the two, as well - a gentle singing woman in a dress, but also this dress is bloodied and the woman is aggressive, and don't forget Kin metamorphosis because both Maria and the Doll are close to Eldrich Horrors now!

I don't have much to elaborate on other options as they are much more self-explanatory! Paleblood Hunter wakes up without memories, so Doll could be the most striking person for them, but who is to tell other people would not see THEIR comfort person terribly distorted in Winter Lanterns' place? My personal opinion though is that heads of melted Messengers is a crucial part here.. but I think ALL variants could work so well that seeking 'logical' appeal is pointless ;-; It boils down to what feels more appealing, I suppose..

[soullessjack]

Full disclosure I am not the previous anon but building off of their message: I'm saying this with all due respect. Not accusing you of abuse apologia for your opinions on a fictional character, but I honestly feel like you have a strange bar for what constitutes an abuser. I strongly disagree that abusers don't regret their actions. An abuser can 100% show regret or remorse for what they did, they can show genuine love and affection to the people they victimize and still be an abuser. Dean is obviously not a black and white villainous caricature, but very rarely in real cases are abusers black and white villainous caricatures. We tend to single out Dean when dissecting the family dynamics because his abuse was the most extreme but all of them, Sam, Dean, and Castiel, are a murder cult who groom Jack into their line of business. So I don't really see the point in the semantics game.

1. that’s a fair point! I just think there’s some distinction between being abusive and being a straight-up abuser, if not distinctive connotations for those terms. I’m also not trying to be apologetic about Dean’s behavior more so than I’m just trying to explain it and make it more understandable than a surface level viewing of him.

2. agree again! nobody is completely black and white and that’s always been a consistent theme (alongside free will and family) within the show, as well as the choice to be a better person, so it’s very confusing to me when fandom discourse is all semantical about who’s worse or who’s better. your favs are wanted by the FBI and violated the Geneva Conventions numerous times, but they still try to do the right thing where it counts.

3. actually I think dumbing down TFW’s dynamic with jack as a “murder cult who groomed him into their line of business” is playing right into the semantics game and the villainous caricature.

for one, hunting just is not a cult. please can we not turn cult into the next internet buzzword. it’s a lifestyle that almost nobody involved actively enjoys living (Gordon and the other dude from Black Rock are outliers) because it’s nothing but trauma and loss and violence constantly, but for one reason or another it’s incredibly difficult to leave, or even compromise with a somewhat normal life. even Dean views it as a death sentence, and the violence he regularly commits within it only ever added to his low self worth as he considers himself a designated “grunt.” even in the later seasons when it’s framed more casually or comedically, the violence and murder of hunting is still ultimately a bleak and begrudging necessity; grunt work for the grunts. to say it’s a “murder cult” is just wrong and, well, a little cartoonish if I’m being fr.

second, jack wasn’t ‘groomed’ into being a hunter/murderer. I swear takes like these make me question what show everyone else is watching ,I’m sorry. he’s literally a born-adult supernatural creature with a heritage and birth circumstance that’s been intertwined with the lives of all three of his chosen fathers since before they all existed and cosmically dangerous powers. there is no way he could ever be normal or have a life outside of hunting (or one that lasts, at least). and considering what we know from his first death now, he probably would’ve just died as a normal baby if Cas had removed his grace. Yes, TFW has some major dysfunctions in their parenting with Jack and it’s absolutely worth talking about, but they still make an effort to be good father figures for him, even with fathers that frankly set them up for failure in that regard. to say they’re all groomers is, to put it mildly, insane and ridiculous

[swissmissficrecs]

Top 10 Sherlock fics by kudos in 2023

Top 10 fics completed in 2023 that garnered the most kudos on AO3. Excluded: chaptered "fics" that are actually collections of standalone ficlets and crossovers that are mostly about the other fandom. Fics that began posting earlier (in some cases, years earlier) obviously have the advantage of more time to rack up kudos. Kudo counts as of 2 Jan 2024.

1. 1,720 kudos: The Case of the Man Who Was Wanted by MyDearLadyDisdain (232K, M, Sherlock/Harry Potter) After an inexplicable case in Surrey, Sherlock is after the strangest criminal he's ever encountered: a mass murderer, that has eluded the authorities for almost 14 years. Unfortunately, Sherlock Holmes is the only one that can see right away that this Harry Potter character is completely innocent. And hang on, is that tea set floating?

2. 1,682 kudos: Shift by stopthat (48K, E, Johnlock) Sherlock is tired. John senses a shift.

3. 1,102 kudos: Ride On by Silvergirl (38K, E, Johnlock) After the disastrous reveal at the Landmark, John tells Sherlock there can be no excuse for what he’s done, and no forgiveness. Sherlock leaves London and starts a new life, and not even the British Government knows where. It’s up to John to track him down and make things right, with a trip around the world and a clue only John would recognize.

4. 851 kudos: Till Death Do Us Part (Not Yet, Not Yet) by Civilized_muppets (8K, T, Johnlock) In which Sherlock and John have been married for years, not that any member of the yard has ever heard of John, much less that Sherlock was married at all, until John is kidnapped from Afghanistan.

5. 797 kudos: The story of the Forgotten Wallet. by Headphones_on_the_Skull (25K, E, Johnlock) Just some dirty Alpha/Omega Johnlock porn.

6. 788 kudos: Nothing to Celebrate by DiscordantWords (30K, M, Johnlock) Sherlock Holmes is back from the dead. Things only get worse from there.

7. 726 kudos: A Tale of Two Soldiers by batslikepastel (14K, T, Johnlock, Jolto, Mystrade) It's Christmas, and Sherlock and John are finally flatmates again after the tumultuous events of the previous year. But a sudden revelation about John's sexuality and James Sholto's unexpected presence throw a wrench into Sherlock's plans, and his jealousy threatens to overwhelm him even as John remains blithely oblivious. Their relationship has reached a turning point, and the ball is in John's court now.

8. 671 kudos: Nightjet by khorazir (22K, M, Johnlock) Officially deceased for eighteen months and still looking for the last remainders of Moriarty’s criminal empire, an exhausted Sherlock boards a night train in Germany to bring him to his next hunting ground. Due to a mishap with the sleeper cars, he is forced to share a compartment with a stranger – who turns out to be not quite as strange as Sherlock thought. The universe isn’t lazy, after all …

9. 646 kudos: Our Love Keeps the Things It Finds by her_ladyships_soap (25K, T, Mystrade) Everyone has a soulmate. Everyone. It's simple human biology. Over the course of every person's life, they develop tattoos of the things their soulmate loves most. Though he has always disliked the concept, Mycroft Holmes is painted from head to toe with dozens of brightly-coloured tattoos. Greg Lestrade, once-firm believer and hopeless romantic, has just nine. They are all quietly sophisticated, sketched in smooth shades of black and grey and easy to hide. Neither of them has gained a tattoo in years. But when they both suddenly find new markings, things finally fall into place.

10. 636 kudos: In Fine Spirits by EventHorizon (189K, M, Mystrade, Johnlock) A very upscale bar/private club needs a bartender and scruffy, punky Greg Lestrade is certain he has the right skills (and needs the job), so walks in to apply in person. He didn't realize that someone else he knew works there, also. Though… 'knew' probably isn't the proper term for a one-night stand where you didn't even learn their name during the fun…

[detco-hell]

[episode 13 - The Strange Person Hunt Murder Case]

[dcextra]

ShinRan Archive: Shinichi Kudo

Transcribed w/ machine translation

迷宮なしの高校生探偵 High school detective with no unsolved mystery

工藤新一 CV:山口勝平 Shinichi Kudo CV: Kappei Yamaguchi

負けず嫌いで、己の正義に忠実。難解な謎に心を躍らせ、大人顔負けの鋭い推理を自信たっぷりに披露するーそれが、高校生探偵・工藤新一だ。整った顔立ちで頭脳明晰、サッカーも相当な実力で、ファンも多い。 He hates losing and is loyal to his own sense of justice. Shinichi Kudo is a high school detective who gets excited about difficult mysteries and confidently shows off his incisive deductions that rival those of adults. He has a good-looking face, a clear head, and is also very good at soccer, so he has many fans.

そんな彼が一途に想いを寄せるのは、幼なじみの毛利蘭。ある時、飲まされた薬の作用で体が縮み、正体を隠し”江戸川コナン”として過ごすことに・・・。だが、新一は決して諦めない。工藤新一として、蘭のもとに帰る日まで！ The person he has a crush on is his childhood friend Ran Mouri. One day, his body shrinks due to the effects of the drug he was forced to drink, and he ends up hiding his true identity and living his life as ``Conan Edogawa.'' However, Shinichi never gives up. Until the day he returns to Ran as Shinichi Kudo!

「また難事件があれば、この名探偵、工藤新一にご依頼を！！」 “If you have another difficult case, please ask this great detective, Shinichi Kudo!”

数々の難事件を解決した日本警察の救世主 The savior of the Japanese police who solved many difficult cases

工藤新一は、世界的な推理小説家の父と元女優の母を持つ帝丹高校２年祭。探偵である。観察力と記憶力を活かし、現場や証言の僅かな違和感も見過ごさない。小さな手がかりから柔軟な発想で真実を解明し、証拠を積み上げた隙のない推理ショーで、犯人を追いつめる！その実績から、警察関係者の信頼は厚く、警部クラスにも顔が利く。 Shinichi Kudo is a second year student at Teitan High School whose father is a world-renowned mystery novelist and mother is a former actress. he is a detective. Utilizing his powers of observation and memory, he does not overlook the slightest discomfort in the scene or testimony. Unravel the truth from small clues with flexible thinking, and hunt down the culprit with a solid mystery show that accumulates evidence! Due to his track record, he is highly trusted by police officials and has a good reputation even among police inspectors.

新一が探偵を志したのは、ホームズへの憧れから。幼い頃は”ホームズの弟子”を名乗り、探偵修業していたことも。事件に遭遇すると推理したくてワズワズ・・・。授業もデートも抜け出して、事件現場に駆けつけてしまうのが探偵の性だ! Shinichi wanted to become a detective because of his admiration for Holmes. When he was young, he called himself ``Holmes' apprentice'' and even trained as a detective. Whenever he encounters an incident, he always wants to deduce it... It's the detective's nature to skip classes and dates and rush to the crime scene!

(Top picture) 警視庁捜査一課から捜査協力の依頼を受け、殺人の起きた屋敷に駆けつけた新一。見事な推理で足のケガを装った犯人を逮捕し、その勇姿は新聞にも掲載された。（ONE） Shinichi receives a request from the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department's First Investigative Division for investigation cooperation, and rushes to the mansion where the murder occurred. With his brilliant deductions, he arrested the culprit who had faked a leg injury, and his bravery was even published in the newspaper. (ONE)

(Top left picture) 容疑者の座席でフィルムの切れ端を発見し、指紋を付けないようハンカチで拾う。捜査は丁寧で、現場を荒らすことはない。（１６２話） They found a piece of film in the suspect's seat and picked it up with a handkerchief to avoid getting fingerprints on it. The investigation is thorough and the scene is not disturbed. (162 episodes)

(Middle top left picture) 怪しい黒ずくめの男を、とっさに尾行。探偵としての勘も冴えている。（ONE） Quickly tail the suspicious man dressed in black. He also has good intuition as a detective. (ONE)

(Middle bottom left picture) 取引現場を証拠に残すため、対象から目を離すことなく、手の感覚だけでシャッターを切る。（ONE） In order to leave evidence of the transaction scene, you can release the shutter using just the feel of your hand without taking your eyes off the subject. (ONE)

(Bottom left picture) 手を握っただけで、相手が体操をやっていると指摘し驚かせる。鋭い観察力が導き出した推理だ。（ONE） Just by holding his hand, he surprises him by pointing out that he is doing gymnastics. This is a deduction based on keen observational skills. (ONE)

(Bottom right picture) アリバイとして提出された動画に違和感を指摘。見つけた証拠���一つ一つ突きつけて犯人を追い込み、自供を引き出した。 （７７３話） He pointed out that there was something strange about the video that was submitted as an alibi. He used every piece of evidence he found to corner the criminal and extract a confession. (Episode 773)

ぶれない正義・・・真実を求める覚悟

新一は、推理力だけでなく探偵として強い信念を持っている。推理は勝ち負けではないと考え、どんなに信じがたい真相でも目を背けず、受け止める。推理で人を死に追い込んでは殺人犯と同じ。誰も死なせない・・・。相手が犯罪者であっても信条を貫く。 Unwavering justice...determination to seek the truth

Shinichi not only has great deduction skills, but also has strong beliefs as a detective. He believes that deduction is not about winning or losing, and accepts the truth without turning away, no matter how hard it is to believe. If you cause someone to die by reasoning, you are the same as a murderer. I won't let anyone die... Stick to your beliefs even if your opponent is a criminal.

クール？無愛想？気障なセリフもさらり・・・探偵として語り出した新一は、時に芝居がかった詩的な表現を口にする。聞いている側が思わず赤面するようなセリフも、照れる様子もなく素で言ってのける。一方、機嫌の悪い時は子供っぽい表情も見せる。 cool? Unfriendly? Even the annoying lines are easy... Shinichi, who begins speaking as a detective, sometimes uses poetic expressions with a hint of drama. He can say lines that would make the listener blush, without any embarrassment. On the other hand, when he is in a bad mood, he also shows a childish expression.

(Top picture) 真実はいつも一つ。推理には上も下もないと言う新一に、平次も感服。（４９話、ONE） There is always one truth. Heiji is also impressed by Shinichi who says that there is no upper or lower in deduction. (Episode 49, ONE)

(Second row left picture) 蘭とレストランで食事中、殺人事件が発生。探偵として真相を求める気持ちを抑えきれない新一は、見兼ねた蘭に送り出された。（１９２話） While eating with Ran at a restaurant, a murder occurs. Shinichi, who cannot suppress his desire to seek the truth as a detective, is sent away by Ran who can't help but look for him. (Episode 192)

(Second row right picture) 通り魔を助けた理由をきかれ、理由なんて要るのかとキッパリ。この言葉は蘭の心にも響いた。（２８８話） When asked why he helped the passerby, he flatly replies that he doesn't need a reason. These words also touched Ran's heart. (Episode 288)

(Top right picture) 遺された家族への配慮で、動機を秘匿した。（５２１話） The motive was kept secret out of consideration for the family left behind. (episode 521)

(Third row left picture) 「静かに・・・」演劇のような所作。（１９１話） "Quietly..." A theatrical gesture. (Episode 191)

(Third row right picture) 不機嫌になると、すぐジト目に・・・。（６１７話） When he’s in a bad mood, he looks scornful... (617 episodes)

(Bottom picture) 蘭と訪れた水族館で起きた殺人に、血の匂いで勘づいた新一。真実を追求する探偵の性分を、サメの習性になぞらえて語った・・・。（７７２話、ONE） Shinichi senses a murder that occurred at the aquarium he visited with Ran because of the smell of blood. He compared the nature of a detective who pursues the truth to the habits of a shark... (Episode 772, ONE)

「それが探偵さ・・・」 "That's a detective..."

平成のホームズに死角なし！？名探偵の心得 There are no blind spots in Heisei Holmes! ? Tips of a great detective

推理を支えるのは幅広い知識！推理にひらめきを与えるのは、分野を問わず蓄積された経験と知識！幼い頃からその大切さを知り、多くを学んできた。 A wide range of knowledge supports reasoning! It is the experience and knowledge accumulated in any field that gives inspiration to deductions! I knew the importance of this from an early age and have learned a lot from it.

(Top right, then left to right pictures) 保育園児にしてコナン・ドイルを熟読。謎解きやトリックの知識、推理ショーの秘訣も学んだ。（８５４話） （語学） 「あなたはいつトイレにはいりましたか？」 （化学）化学知識の応用！？薬品を合成し煙幕を生成。煙に隠れて教室から抜け出し捜査に向かった！（OVA ４） （医学）遺体を外から見ただけで死因と凶器を推測。人体の構造や機能に通じている。（１６２話） As a kindergartener, I read Conan Doyle thoroughly. He also learned riddles, tricks, and the secrets of mystery shows. (Episode 854) (Language) “When did you go to the bathroom?” (Chemistry) Application of chemical knowledge! ? Synthesize chemicals and generate a smoke screen. I sneaked out of the classroom under the cover of smoke and headed to investigate! (OVA 4) (Medicine) The cause of death and murder weapon can be estimated just by looking at the body from the outside. Familiar with the structure and functions of the human body. (162 episodes)

軽やかな身のこなしで捜査に臨む！ 探偵に必要なのは頭脳だけにあらず！捜査では、危険な現場に踏み入ったり、凶悪犯に襲われることも・・・。身体能力の鍛錬もぬかりなし！ He approaches the investigation with a light body! A detective needs more than just brains! During the investigation, you may enter dangerous scenes or be attacked by violent criminals. Training of physical ability is also perfect!

探偵に必要な運動神経をつけるために始めたサッカー。中１で早くもレギュラーの座を獲得した。（１０１話）

蘭の蹴りを難なくかわす動体視力と反射神経。急カーブで傾いた車では、蘭と箱乗りしてバランスを取る。（上はONE、右は２８６話）そばにあった地球儀を犯人に向けて蹴り飛ばし、見事命中！逃亡を阻止した。正確さと威力を兼ね備えたキックだ。（ONE） He started playing soccer to develop the athleticism needed to become a detective. He earned a regular spot as early as his first year in junior high school. (Episode 101)

His dynamic vision and reflexes allow him to easily dodge Ran's kicks. When the car tilts due to a sharp curve, Ran and I ride in a box to maintain balance. (Top is ONE, right is episode 286) He kicks a nearby globe at the criminal and hits the target! prevented escape. It's a kick that combines accuracy and power. (ONE)

超高校級特殊技術も習得済み！

車の運転はもちろん、モーターボートや飛行機の操縦まで！”ハワイで親父に教わった”。たびたび口にする通り、優作の指導により得た技術は多い。 Super high school level special techniques have also been learned! Not only can you drive a car, but you can also pilot a motorboat or airplane! ``My father taught me this in Hawaii.'' As I often say, I have learned many techniques from Yusaku's guidance.

（操縦）コナンの姿で、ヘリコプターの操縦をこなした。子供の頃に航空博物館の模擬操縦で身につけた技術。（劇場版 ２） （爆弾処理）配線図を見ただけで爆弾の構造を理解。非常ドアごしに蘭へ指示を出し、爆弾を解除させた。（劇場版 １） （射撃）射撃もハワイで特訓。射撃の腕には自信あり。少しでも照準を外せば危険が及ぶ緊張の場面でも、迷いなく撃ち込める。（左から２１９話、劇場版 ２） (Piloting) He piloted a helicopter in his Conan form. He learned this skill when he was a child doing mock maneuvers at an aviation museum. (Movie version 2) (Bomb disposal) Understand the structure of a bomb just by looking at the wiring diagram. He gave instructions to Ran through the emergency door to defuse the bomb. (Movie version 1) (Shooting) Special shooting training in Hawaii. I am confident in my shooting skills. Even in tense situations where he could be in danger if he misses his aim even slightly, he can shoot without hesitation. (Episode 219 from left, movie version 2)

（何気ない言動にドギマギ・・・♥）蘭が相手だと冗談にも翻弄されっばなし。ジェットコースターでふいに手を握られてドキッ！（ONE） (I'm confused by his casual words and actions... ♥) When Ran is his partner, he's at the mercy of jokes. I was shocked when my hand was suddenly held on a roller coaster! (ONE)

つかず離れず・・・幼なじみ一筋。 気が強く、意地っ張りで、そのくせ涙もろい・・・。幼なじみの蘭をずっと近く見てきた新一。その想いは一途で、多くのファンレターをもらっても目移りしたことはない。蘭が絡むと日頃は冷静な頭脳も歯車がくるうのか、熱い男に変貌する。組織のことを伝えないのは、蘭の身を案じればこそ。本当のことを言えず蘭を待たせ続けて、もどかしさと悔しさが募るばかり・・・。会えない時間を乗り越え、ついに告白することができた！ Never leaving...a childhood friend. She's strong-willed and stubborn, and yet she's also prone to tears... Shinichi has been watching his childhood friend Ran closely. His desire is single-minded, and even though he receives many fan letters, he has never given up on him. When Ran gets involved, his normally calm mind seems to turn into gears, and he transforms into a passionate man. The reason he doesn't tell her about the organization is because he's worried about Ran's safety. He keeps making Ran wait without telling him the truth, which only increases his frustration and regret... After overcoming the time when we couldn't meet, I was finally able to confess my feelings!

事件を優先させて、またしても蘭を置いて来てしまった新一。待ち続けている蘭の元に戻り、伝えたい言葉があるのだが・・・。思い通りにならない体に、焦りと悔しさが募る。（１９３話） （アイツがまってるのに・・・っ） Shinichi prioritizes the case and leaves Ran behind once again. He returns to Ran, who has been waiting for her, and has something to say to her... I feel a growing sense of impatience and frustration as my body doesn't turn out the way I want it to. (Episode 193) (Even though she's waiting...)

（出会った日から・・・） 初めて合った日、とびきりの笑顔に心を撃ち抜かれた！その日から蘭一筋。（８５４話） 友達への照れから、蘭を名字で呼び、距離を取ろうとしたことも・・・。（４７３話） （ついつい強がって・・・） 監禁被害者の救出を電話で指示。たびたび電話でピンチを助けている。（５１１話） （会えない二人を繋ぐのは電話とメール） （言いたいことも聞きたいこともいっぱい・・・）新一の姿に戻った貴重な機会に、蘭と気持ちを確かめ会いたかったのだが・・・。（５２３話） (From the day we met...) On the first day we met, his amazing smile stole my heart! From that day on, I was devoted to Ran. (Episode 854) Out of embarrassment for her friend, he called Ran by her last name and tried to distance himself from her... (Episode 473) (I just kept getting stronger...) Give instructions over the phone to rescue a confinement victim. She often helps people in a pinch over the phone. (episode 511) (Telephone calls and emails connect two people who cannot meet each other) (There are so many things I want to say and ask...) I wanted to take the precious opportunity to meet Ran and see how she feels after returning to Shinichi's form, but... (Episode 523)

ロンドンで再会するも、余計な感情が入りまくって蘭の心は推理不可能・・・。感情を爆発させ走り出した蘭を捕まえて「好きな女」と伝えられた！（６２１話） 「オメーは厄介な難事件なんだよ！」 Even though they meet again in London, Ran's feelings are filled with so many unnecessary emotions that it is impossible to understand them... When Ran bursts with emotion and runs off, he catches Ran and tells her that he is the woman he likes! (621 episodes) “You are a troublesome and difficult case!”

もう一人の幼なじみ、園子が知る！？ 工藤新一の素顔 新一くんは・・・女にデレデレ！？

探偵としての活躍が新聞や雑誌に取り上げられて、チヤホヤされてる（？）新一君。まさか浮気してないでしょうね？

女性の体に腕を回し、容疑者とキスした姿勢を再現しつつ、囁くような事情聴取。これが蘭に知れたら・・・。（１９２話）

「推理オタク」とバカにする蘭に、ファンレターの束を見せつける新一君。モテモテぶりに顔のニャケが止まらない！？ Another childhood friend, Sonoko, knows! ? Shinichi Kudo's real face Shinichi-kun is crazy about women! ?

Shinichi-kun's activities as a detective have been featured in newspapers and magazines, and he is getting a lot of attention (?). I'm sure you're not cheating on me, are you?

He wraps his arms around the woman and recreates the position of kissing the suspect while interrogating her in whispers. If Ran finds out about this... (Episode 192)

Shinichi shows off a stack of fan letters to Ran, who makes fun of him for being a "mystery geek." I can't stop my face from being so popular! ?

新一君は・・・ムッツリスケベ！？

クールに装い、カッコつけても、中身はただの男子高校生。思春期真っ只中の頭で、何を考えていることやら・・・。園子様はお見通し！ ”ブラジャーを見せてくれ”と、頼む新一君。目的は本当に捜査だけ・・・！？（１６２話）

（ドサクサに紛れて！）

蘭とキスする”フリ”の演技中、無言でやたらと顔を近づける新一君。（１９０話）

（甘い妄想を膨らませて・・・）

アツいカップルの姿を、蘭との甘いラブシーンに変換して脳内再生！（ONE）

新出と蘭の関係でも妄想。（１７１話）

水着を直す蘭のお尻っを激写。新一君に見せたら喜びそうね！（１５３話）

（お宝画像にドキドキ！？）

蘭の胸元をとらえた刺激的な１枚を送ってあげた！（４１１話） Shinichi-kun... you're such a pervert!?

Even if he dresses cool and looks cool, inside he is just a high school boy. What are you thinking in your head in the midst of adolescence? Sonoko-sama is looking forward to it! "Please show me your bra," Shinichi asks. The purpose is really just to investigate...! ? (162 episodes) (Get lost in the crowd!) While pretending to kiss Ran, Shinichi silently brings his face closer to Ran. (190 episodes) (Inflate your sweet delusions...)

Convert the image of a hot couple into a sweet love scene with Ran and replay it in your mind! (ONE)

Even the relationship between Shinde and Ran is delusional. (Episode 171)

A close-up shot of Ran's butt as she fixes her swimsuit. I think Shinichi will be happy if I show it to him! (153 episodes)

(Are you excited about the treasure image?)

I sent you an exciting photo of Ran's chest! (Episode 411)

新一君は・・・大の推理バカ！

推理が好きすぎて、周りが見えなくなる傾向アリ。デリカシーのなさに蘭も苦労してるわ。

持ち前の観察眼と分析力を披露する新一君。それが蘭のデート気分を壊していることには気づかず・・・。（７７２話）

ホームズのことを興奮気味に語る新一君に、蘭は置いてけぼりよ！（１話）

機内の殺人現場で勝手に検証を始め、警察はカンカン。（１６２話）

事件に夢中なアイツを”大バカ推理之介”と称した蘭。（２２９話） Shinichi-kun is...a huge deduction idiot!

He loves deduction so much that he tends to lose sight of his surroundings. Ran is also struggling with the lack of delicacy.

Shinichi shows off his observational and analytical skills. He doesn't realize that this is ruining Ran's mood for the date... (Episode 772)

Shinichi talks excitedly about Holmes, so leave Ran alone! (Episode 1)

He started investigating the murder scene on the plane without permission, and the police were furious. (162 episodes)

Ran calls the guy who is obsessed with the case "Big Idiot Mystery". (Episode 229)

[jbuffyangel]

Second Chance: Arrow 1x18 Review (Salvation)

The villain of the week is one step ahead of Felicity in "Salvation" which gives Oliver the opportunity to be there for HER, as they race to save Roy Harper's life.

And oh holy cow is there Lance family drama y'all. WOW. Scandalous.

Let's dig in...

Olicity

This is one of Arrow’s more suspenseful episodes. Felicity goes toe to toe with the villain of the week and she more than meets her match. This results in one of Arrow's cooler action sequences and some iconic Olictiy moments.

But first, we must work out.

Of all the times Felicity watches Oliver working out, this is my favorite. Emily Bett Richard’s face is hilarious.

Her comic skills are so on point and she brings a much needed levity to the show. But do not deny this woman her dramatic work. She can bring her A game anytime - as we will soon see.

Oliver is off to threaten (or kill?) a dirty real estate developer named John Nichols, who doesn’t mind skipping code requirements if it means saving a buck. Oliver fed up with this guy killing people in the Glades and he’s on the List, so hasta la vista, baby. (Do not deny my my nineties cliché remarks. They bring me comfort and joy.)

Unfortunately (or fortunately?) someone else beats Oliver to it and kidnaps Nichols. Oliver is strangely displeased. I mean... what's the difference? Felicity and I share a brain sometimes, so she asks Oliver on my behalf.

Source: @andjustforthismoment

These two are in their own rom com and we’re just along for the ride. The way he growls “They don’t show my level of restraint,” at Felicity is a lot. Is it really necessary to stand that close to her Oliver? No it’s not. I SEE YOU SIR.

The man who kidnapped Nichols executes him on live television which was super creepy. He definitely has a Heath Ledger as the Joker vibe to him. (Nobody said the comparisons to the Dark Knight are unfair.)

Felicity is unable to crack his encryption code because he’s a former cyber crusader called “The Savior” and the NSA has been searching for him for years.  His real name is Joseph Falk and he erased his existence after his wife was murdered in the Glades.

When he failed to get justice for his wife's death, the Savior took matters into his own hands - not unlike our favorite vigilante. His cyber skills are no joke and give Felicity a real run for her money. She is unable to track him down before he kills Nichols, which leads to a hilarious if frustrated exchange between Felicity and Oliver.

Source: @yet-i-remain-quiet

JUST GET MARRIED.

Things go from bad to worse for Felicity when Falk kidnaps the district attorney. His crime was not prosecuting the person who murdered Falk’s wife. If we were on the fence as to whether Nichols should live or die, then the district attorney snaps us out of the moral grey zone. Prosecutors choose not try cases all of the time for lack of evidence. It doesn’t mean they should die for it.

Source:  msr-olicity-love

Oliver's impatience only heightens Felicity's stress, but she finally gets a location. It’s the middle of the day which means Oliver can’t hood up. So he grabs the motorcycle and his super sexy brown jacket to hunt Falk down and save the DA.

This leads to one of my favorite Arrow action scenes. Falk is not at the location Felicity sends Oliver to, which means he has to sprint across town and leap between buildings to next location. Felicity is completely flummoxed because she doesn't understand how this guy is moving locations. Oliver screaming at her over comms is not particularly helpful either. 

Unfortunately, Team Arrow loses and Falk murders the DA on live television, which is completely traumatizing to Felicity who has never seen anyone die before. 

Oliver returns home to find Felicity alone in the dark, twirling one of his arrows in her hands. Oliver immediately wants to know where Diggle is because he’s probably wondering why John left Felicity all alone in the dark.

Felicity: I asked him to leave me alone in my loud voice.

Source: @westallenolicitygifs

Oliver isn’t going to do the same. He immediately reassures Felicity that it wasn’t her fault (because it isn’t). This is the price of the life they’ve chosen to live. It’s a very lonely one as Oliver knows all too well.

Source: @jamiedornaniseverything

Felicity is understandably feeling defeatist, so it’s one of the rare times she says it’s better to be alone. Oliver doesn’t have much to say in return, but notice how the scene is shot. The entire bunker is dark except for the brightly backlit desk lamp. Oliver and Felicity are the only thing we see in the darkness.

Felicity also mentions her relationship status, which feels like an oddly placed comment. Umm… ok? SHE’S SINGLE AND HETEROSEXUAL GUYS!

I love receiving pieces to the Felicity Smoak puzzle, but this comment felt very out of context. “Hey I’m sad, but I wouldn’t know how to talk to my boyfriend about fighting crime. Good thing I don’t have one.”

It is NOT the fans who create romantic undertones to Oliver and Felicity’s scenes. The writers make it romantic with conversations like this. It’s very easy to keep a scene like this strictly platonic, but nope! The writers decide it’s super important that Oliver knows *right now* that Felicity is single as she pours her heart out to him in her time of need.

The light is equally important, because this relationship (regardless of romantic or platonic) has to be a two way street. Felicity cannot always help Oliver find the light. He has to help her too.

Oliver does come through Felicity by the end of the episode. Not at first because he is equally struggling with the loneliness of the life he’s chosen. He can’t really advise Felicity against being alone because that’s the choice he’s made for himself. So much so, that Diggle takes him out for a burger and a little therapy session. After the disaster zone his past relationships have left in their wake, Oliver is tapping out. He doesn’t require a life, or entanglements, or feelings.

Diggle: You’ve been home for eight months Oliver, I don’t think you’ve left that island yet.

Diggle, per usual, disagrees. He wants Oliver entangled. He wants Oliver as entangled as he can get. It makes you wonder if he has someone specific in mind.

The Savior puts a big mirror up to Oliver’s face. He is man grieving the loss of his wife and chose to channel that rage and sadness into exacting his brand of justice.  Oliver can see himself in Falk and he doesn’t like what he sees.

Being alone leads to exactly that. While Oliver may say he doesn’t want the complexity of relationships and the difficulties they can bring, the reality of living life alone can lead to some pretty terrible results. Falk cut himself off from his humanity. This lead to selecting victims who didn’t deserve to die. If Oliver wants to maintain a moral high ground, make difficult but ultimately right choices, then he needs his humanity fully intact. Humanity requires human contact.

Oliver reaches out to someone first, but it’s not Felicity. It’s L*urel. He wants to have dinner or coffee or whatever because he no longer wants to be on an island.  It’s a nice line. It would have more meaning if we saw that dinner or conversation, but we don't.

Instead we see Oliver return home to the bunker, to Felicity and Diggle, and they debrief their latest Team Arrow victory.  It would be easy to leave this scene at Felicity’s funny remark about Roy and Thea.

Diggle: You ok?

Oliver: Getting there.

Instead, Oliver acknowledges, more to himself, that he’s feeling better because John was right. Then we actually see this rigid man move and in the cutest way possible - with a little "Psst." It is a small yet definitive step towards his second chance.

Oliver approaches Felicity in the now brightly lit bunker and tells her she is not alone. He is there for her always. Felicity may not have a “boyfriend” to talk to, but she has Oliver.

Then he gently touches her shoulder and lets his hand linger there just long enough to even make Felicity wonder if maybe, just maybe, he means more.

Actions speak louder than words.  Oliver may talk about not being on an island anymore with L*urel, but he leaves that island for Felicity.

Roy Harper

What are we doing with Roy Harper? Thus far it’s been a lot of Roy and Thea having the same “make better choices” argument and debate their wildly different economic lots in life. This is all well and good but we eventually need movement on this character and “Unfinished Business” give it to us BIG TIME.

Thea is understandably frustrated when Roy admits he plans to hold up a liquor store because he “owes” people in the Glades and that’s how this town works.

Thea: I got you a job at my brother’s club. You have choices. You don’t have to be a criminal.

Somehow this decision puts Roy in the Savior’s cross hairs. According to Falk, Roy Harper is a gang banger.

Roy has a criminal record and holding up a liquor store with an empty gun is not great, but a freaking death sentence? Calm down crazy. The Savior can’t find bigger fish to fry?

Roy doesn’t make excuses or ask for forgiveness when Falk challenges him to defend himself against his “crimes.” He doesn’t care if he lives or dies (just like someone else we know).

Roy: No one’s gonna miss me. I’m just a waste.

Gut punch. This kid wrecks me. Now Thea is crying in Tommy’s big brotherly-like arms. WE MUST SAVE THE PARKOUR PRINCE!!!

Felicity and Diggle determine Falk is on the old abandoned subway system in Star City, which is why he was moving locations. The Hood finds Roy before Falk can pull the trigger and they engage in a morality debate, which thankfully isn’t broadcasted across the whole city after the feed is cut off. Or maybe the city should have heard Oliver’s arguments.

Oliver: I understand being alone, but it doesn’t give you the right to kill people in cold blood.

The Savior challenges Oliver on the difference between them and, once again, he doesn’t have a lot to say. There's minimal morality wiggle room for Oliver. The only difference between the Savior and the Hood is the people they are choosing. Oliver wasn’t wrong at the beginning of the episode. He has more restraint. He also has a better list of names. The Savior should ask for a couple.

Killing the District Attorney and kidnapping Roy Harper show that Falk is very bad at being judge, jury and executioner. Arrow is putting other vigilantes up against Oliver to show that he is better. There is a good heart under that hood – a potential superhero’s heart. Oliver’s morals and how he measures the sins of others are more just, but that doesn’t make him right. These distinctions we are drawing between Oliver and people like Falk and Helena are merely shades of grey. He is balancing on a very razor thin edge.

Oliver begs Falk to give Roy a second chance, but is forced to put an arrow in him when he refuses. “Salvation” is asking an important question. Who is worthy of a second chance? And who decides who is worthy?

Killing not only ends someone’s life it removes the possibility for change. There is a clear distinction between a man like Nichols and Roy Harper. There should be consequences to sinful actions, but what sins warrant death and what sins warrant forgiveness? Who decides? It’s a question we grapple with constantly in our imperfect legal system and it’s one Oliver Queen must answer as the city’s self appointed protector.

Roy is an easy call to make. He made mistakes, but he is deserving of a second chance. However, the question of whether he is worthy of it can only be answered by Roy Harper.  As he pulls the small arrow that saved his life out from his pocket, Roy is illuminated by a bright red light – a not so subtle nod to the Red Arrow. 

And thus a hero’s journey begins with a second chance.

The Lance Family

This week on Loving the Lances… Dinah returns home with hopes of resurrecting their dead daughter but family secrets were unearthed instead. Dun dun dunnnnn!!!!

L*urel is on her own show, so I thought I’d give it a proper soap opera name. She never intersects with Oliver’s storyline except when she randomly pops up at the club looking for Tommy, but I digress. In all seriousness, this episode is pretty damn good because some scalding hot tea was spilled!

Dinah is CONVINCED that Sara is alive because she had the exact same baseball cap as the woman in the photo. This is such a weird detail to hang all her hopes on. Does Dinah think Sara was holding the rockets hat in her hand while she was swept out to sea? What’s with the hat? I HAVE QUESTIONS.

Long story short, Sara is truly dead. L*urel finds the woman in the photo. She’s American, spent some time in China and owns a Starling City Rocket’s hat. We’re going to pretend the Chinese Embassy can find some rando in a photo and deliver her name to L*urel in five seconds flat. Also, Oliver confirms once again Sara is dead and he never lies so we’re all good.

But now we can get to the really interesting part of this little Lance drama unfolding before us. L*urel has the same questions about the hat as I do! I am wildly uncomfortable being this much in agreement with her, but here we are.

Dinah came home while Sara was packing for her little get away with Oliver. She watched Sara pack the hat. Dinah told her not to go, but Sara said she was in love and following her heart even though others may not think it is right. Just like Dinah did with Quentin (side note – what’s the story on those two?)

Dinah: So I let her go. I killed my daughter.

HOLY FRIGGIN CRAP! MOMMY KNEW ABOUT THE CHEATING AND NOT ONLY DID SHE NOT SAYING ANYTHING TO L*UREL SHE LET SARA GO ON THE DAMN BOAT!!

This family is so jacked up. They make the Queens look halfway normal. Y’all I don’t even know what to do with this information. HOT. MESS. EXPRESS.

Clearly Dinah is riddled with guilt and is desperate to find Sara alive to erase the terrible decision she made, but she can’t erase it. Just like Oliver can’t.

Somehow this betrayal almost feels worse than what Oliver and Sara did. Alright, maybe that’s too harsh, but it feels just as bad. It feels like Dinah was taking sides and she chose Sara. 

I really need a therapy session with these women to unpack all that, but this is Arrow and L*urel doesn’t get that much screen time. The best we’ll get is an awkward hug and L*urel asking her mother to call her sometime.

What L*urel is offering is a generous second chance. Perhaps she’s realized that forgiveness is less painful than holding onto all the anger and hurt. Perhaps Oliver coming home and her mother’s time away made her realize she wants Dinah in her life than not at all. It’s really only a decision L*urel can make, but it’s a chance Dinah needs to jump on. She didn’t stop being a mother when Sara died. L*urel needs her too.

Stray Thoughts

L*urel advises Thea to run from the bad boys. Snort. So it’s a “do what I say, not what I do” type of advice day.

Moira serves Frank up on a platter to Malcolm Merlyn as the person who hired Deadshot. Moira’s hands are getting pretty damn bloody.

It has to be hard on L*urel to see that the only time her parents can be in a room together, affectionately touching, and being on the same team, is when they are searching for Sara. I really felt bad for her this episode. Ugh.

Slade and Oliver ransom the chips for a boat. It goes disastrously. Now Yao Fei is captured again.

Hey! Shado speaks English and can kick ass. Neat!

 “Keeps my ears warm.” He jokes!

“I’ll be home in a flash.” Dinah lives in Central City. Season 1 Jen didn’t get that reference, but I am a seasoned professional in the art of comic book references and I totally picked up on it the second time.

“Stay” by Rihanna was playing during Oliver & L*urel’s scene at the end of the episode. This was my song of pain in 2013. The Vampire Diaries used it in a particularly agonizing Stefan and Elena scene as well that year.  It's like white hot pokers in my heart.

Listen to the Watchover podcast reaction to 1x18!!!

If you’d like to support the blog, please buy me a cup of tea!

Disclaimer: Any gifs on the blog are not mine. If you would like a gif removed from my reviews, please message me.

[fleemotional]

What if Giyuu Tomioka was missioned to protect the new hospital for demons - part 1

Cw : mention of murder, war, slight violence

At the end of the war, the world became a safer place. Still, the Demon Slayer Corps were active.

Many people infected by Muzan have remained demons after his death. Kiriya Ubuyashiki made it mandatory for them to register at a place named the Tamayo Hospital, created to protect and if possible, heal demons. It has three departments : redemption, humanization and reintegration.

The redemption room is kind of an Emergency Room. It welcomes demons in extreme conditions : violent, reluctant, mentally and physically ill ... It's mostly about restraining them to protect the outside world without having to kill them. The headmistress accompanies each demon individually in their first steps at recovery and self-forgiveness.

The humanization hospital, handled by Yushiro, is the biggest one. Once a demon is stable enough, they are sent here to follow a personalized course of treatment based on different drugs created by Tamayo and Yushiro during the war. The goal is to allow them control over their instincts, to get them used to ingesting as small amounts of blood as possible, make them resistant to sunlight and in the best cases, even be human once again."

The reintegration office is under the responsibility of Aoi. When demons are as stable as they can be, they receive a certificate from Master Ubuyashiki recognizing them as recovered demons. It allows them to go back to society and be protected by demon slayers like anyone, unless one day they relapse in which case they have to be brought back to the redemption wing as soon as possible, starting back from the beginning. But the redemption wing's staff will do everything in their power to prevent this from happening by providing jobs, housing, health care, advice and monitoring…

Remaining slayers are hunting down the last demons refusing to cooperate. They also have to protect the hospital, which is highly at risk as the war is still recent and the demons still at the beginning of their healing journey.

"- You called, Master.

- Giyuu. I'm sorry to ask for you in such times, while you are rightfully retired ... but I'm in desperate need of hashiras. I called back Sanemi,but he can't handle all the responsibilities alone. Tengen is helping as well, but he is expecting, I can't ask too much of him. The only one left is ... you.

- Ease your worries, Master. It will always be an honor to serve the Ubuyashiki family. Nonetheless, I'm afraid I won't be of any use.

- You've always been so hard on yourself."

Kiriya offered a soft smile to Giyuu. The slayer didn't insisted any further.

"- As you already know, attacks are multiplying on the Tamayo hospital ... The very few people we sent there are underqualified and alone. Please, Giyuu Tomioka, go to the hospital. Train any volunteer to help ensure the safety of those who turned to us for help."

~

Giyuu arrived in front of the hospital's gate, where a young woman dressed smartly, with black hair tied in a high ponytail with a blue butterfly hair clip was waiting for him.

“- Hoy, Tomioka ! Welcome to Tamayo hospital. I'm so happy you agreed to come and help us !

- I did not agree to anything. I'm just here to visit.

- Good thing I'm here to show you the place, then.”

Aoi started walking towards the enormous building ahead of them, Giyuu followed her. They arrived at an entrance labeled “Kocho”.

“- This is the reintegration office.

- You named it after Shinobu and Kanae.

- You'll soon realize this hospital is just a huge memorial. My wing is named Kocho. The humanization one is named after Tamayo - obviously - Yushiro wouldn't have it any other way. And the redemption room is named Tsutako.”

Giyuu froze. Aoi kept walking.

“- What ?”

Aoi turned around to notice he had stopped. His face was strangely expressive. A mix of surprise and grief.

“- What “what” ?

- It’s named what ?

- Tsutako.”

He stayed silent for a minute, with Aoi starring at him, confused.

An atmosphere so dense, as if someone had died.

“- Do you know why ?"

Aoi started rumbling nerviously.

"- No. Not really. It was someone very important to the headmistress, but she won't tell me anything esle. I think Yushiro knows, thought. Otherwise he wouldn't have allowed it. He really likes her, but not as much as to leave her this kind of creative liberty.”

Before Giyuu could answer, a voice that could have been the one of the most annoyed person in the world snapped him out of his stupor.

"- What are you doing here ? Tomioka Giyuu."

Yushiro, his eyebrows furrowed as usual, was walking casually towards the pair. Why rush ? They were on his domain.

“- We were just visiting.

- This is not a museum. My people need peace. You ... don't really inspire peace.

- Yushi, he's not doing anything wrong.

- You're a soldier, not a nurse. You're free to go to the butterfly mansion if you want to help, but unless there is an emergency, I don't want you in my hospital."

"- Why is it called Tsutako ?"

Yushiro's voice had anxious undertones. He started pacing away. Giyuu could not help but ask.

Yushiro stopped and turned around to look the water hashira in the eyes, defensive. He knows. He knows everything. He may know even more than Giyuu.

Yushiro stood tall, holding Giyuu's disturbes gaze, unfazed.

"- Why should I tell you ?

- Because that is the name of my dead sister.

- Tsss ... How egocentric. Not everything revolves around you, slayer."

Giyuu approached Yushiro, more menacingly then he realized.

"- Cut it. Who is the headmistress of the redemption wing ?"

“- I have seen one too many slayers coming around to rebound with old acquaintances, encounters ending in a fuss. You won't get to do that.

- Is it Michinoko ?

"- I can't. I am here on request of Master Ubuyashiki. Until further notice, I'll command and train your security staff.

- Get. Out."

At this point, they were so close they could start tearing each other in the blink of a second.

- Does that mean you accept the job ?

Yushiro brushed his hair back with a profound sight.

- Not now, Aoi.”

Obviously. Ubuyashiki had to send him. Out of anybody.

"- Then, you should know that your entire legacy as a hashira and as a war hero is going down with you if you hurt anyone here.

- I wasn't planning on it."

Yushiro seemed unconvinced by Giyuu's answer. He finally turned around and started to walk away again.

- Hoy !”

"- Dawn is approaching. Hope you had a good sleep yesterday, because this is the beginning of your first shift as head of security. Good luck. "

Giyuu sighed. He'd, in fact, enrolled in a very precarious mission.

"- Aoi, show him the way.

And just like that, Aoi and Giyuu went in the opposite direction of Yushiro. Rapidly, they end up in one of the gardens in between each wing. In the distance, they could hear music. As they were getting close to what Giyuu guessed as the redemption room, the music got louder and the scene started to appear.

In the grass were sat many people, cross-legged, eyes closed and in front of them, on a slightly raised stage, was a woman dressed in a soft peachy pink kimono with small colorful embroidered flowers on the edges. She was playing biwa and singing a soft lullaby. Her face was partially hidden by her long white hair Her eyes were closed, accompanied by two dots tatooed underneath them.

First, she was stunned. Giyuu could see she was trying to keep a cool and controled demeanor. She signed to one of four young girls dressed in white, standing next to the stage, to come. She stood up, giving her assistant her biwa and left the stage throught the nearest door. The three other younglings rushed after her.

Giyuu witheld his breath at her sight. He feared that if he expired, she would be brushed away by the breeze. He had never see her with her white hair back when they were young. All he could think was how soft and fragile she looked, yet so luminous and charismatic ... Like a godess ...

When he finally let out the air of his lungs, she rose, like a sixth sense, to stare directly at Giyuu.

"- Hello everyone. Please remain calm. I'll take the lead until it is time to go back inside."

And just like that, the little one sat, took the biwa and continued the song.

"- Giyuu. What exactly happened between you and Michinoko."

The hashira didn't knew what to answer.

They entered a very long room which looked as much like an ER as a dormitory with not so many empty beds.

"- Oh ! The switch between night shift and day shift will happen any minute now, we have to go meet them on the first floor."

Without lingering more, Giyuu and Aoi traced back their steps to the nearest entrance of the Redemption wing.

“- Soooo, this is where we receive first time patients. They stay here for as long as needed. When they decide to start the healing program, they get to have a room in the upper floors, when they become dangerous, they go down to the containment facility in the basement. That's all I know ... I don't come here very often."

Slowly, the patients who were sitting in the garden started to peacefully fill up the room. Everyone went back to their bed, quietly, not caring ablut Giyuu nor Aoi. The room had no windows, just two big wooden doors leading to the main entrance, where a few security guards were standing. Giyuu walked right to them. A nurse went and closed the doors behind him.

"- Hey. You are from the day shift ?

- Kind of. I'm Giyuu Tomioka, I will be the head of security from now on.

- Giyuu Tomioka ! As in Giyuu Tomioka, the Water Hashira !

- Yes.

- It's an honor, man !

- Woaaaaaw ...

- War vet ... sick !

- What are you doing down there ? In this creepy rabid asylum …

- Trying to make it a less creepy rabid asylum.

- Ha ! Good luck with that !

- It's time for us to go but there is 2 hours of common training in the afternoon. We'll see you there ?"

Giyuu nodded.

~

The whole day had passed without any new appearances of Michinoko. Without anything special actually. As Kiriya had warned Giyuu, half of his team are incompetent but he already knows how he will manage to make them decent. Apparently, having eliminated the king of demons is enough to have their respect and attention, which is all he needs for now.

The sun was disappearing in the horizon, Giyuu hadn't slept since he arrived. I was getting ready to leave his post.

"- Help ! Please ! Please, help us !"

A small woman, probably around 60, was running toward the main entrance.

"- It's my son ! Please ! Take in my son !"

Before anyone was able to react, an enraged 6 feet tall demon bursted in the courtyard of the Redemption wing. Few humans, probably of his family, were running after him, desperately trying to stop him from harming anyone. He was unhinged. Giyuu and 3 of his students ran to them.

The ex-hashira, with the advantage of surprise, made the demon fall by kicking him in the knees.

"- Grab his arms ! Hold him to the ground ! "

Everyone who was here to help did as told while Giyuu grabbed the demon from behind, holding his katana still in its sheath against his throat.

He wasn't really strong, maybe a bit big but that's it. The real struggle was to handle a demon without killing him. What were they supposed to do now ? Hold on until he calmed down ? He was only more angry now that he was restrained.

Suddenly, the demon stopped growling, and Giyuu distinguished a soothing voice singing behind the sliding doors.

It was her.

Michinoko took the time to pass by every occupied bed, and softly caressed each patient's feet as she was walking through the aisle.

"- Hello, friend. It is such an honor to meet you. I am highly impressed. You managed to get back to your family and let them bring you here. It is proof that your humanity never left you. It is a gift."

The doors opened for her. She walked calmly to the demon facing her, still singing, while his family and other caregivers were holding him still. She finally arrived at their level, and softly put her hand on the cheek of her new resident.

There was silence. The demon stopped resisting. Tears started to flood his eyes. Michinoko took a few steps back as if she already knew the mother was coming to hug him.

"- My son ! Oh, my son ! You're here ! You're finally here !"

As the woman was crying from relief after years of suffering, Michinoko made a sign to the caregivers inside the wing to come and get the demon. The guards let go of him.

"- Miss, what is his name ?

- Subiko !

- All right. We will now take him in. I will allow one person to stay with him.

- Me ! It will be me. It's my baby ...

- Then, up we go."

Michinoko helped the mother to get up, while the caregivers helped the son, and all of them started to walk back into the redemption wing.

Giyuu, still a little shaken up, was just standing there doing nothing. He couldn't bear her coming this close to him and leaving like nothing happened.

"- Michinoko !”

The tall woman stopped and signed to her team to keep up and go inside.

“- I am sorry, Giyuu. I am not ready to talk to you. I don't know when I will be."

She went silent, visibly uncertain.

"- You won't be forced to stay here by anyone, not even your Master, but please ... I am begging you ... teach my people how to protect this place like you did tonight."

Giyuu tried holding her gaze, but caved in. Her eyes used to be a deep dark shade of brown, now they were bright red. They were too heavy in emotions. He had no choice but to distance himself from the situation.

"- I will. Mistress."

A slight smile lit up her face.

"- Go ask Yushiro for appartements in the main tower. He is not allowed to refuse you anything."

~

Giyuu woke up to screams in the room above him. An attack ? In the main tower ? Where only the staff reside ?

Without thinking more, as head of security, Giyuu grabbed his katana before sprinting up the stairs. He easily found the room from which the noises were coming. The door was slightly opened. He peeked inside, Yushiro was standing a few feet from him, looking inside the room while the four little women Giyuu had seen with Michinoko yesterday were around him, all talking at the same time.

"- I am sorry Master, it came out of nowhere !

- She hid it well.

- No patient noticed though.

- She finished healing the new patient, and ran to her room.

- But it was too late for us to calm her down."

Was it the room of Michinoko ?.

"- Arh! Alright ! Michi ! Come here !"

A long distorted scream came from one corner of the room. It was hard to distinguished from where Giyuu stood, but there was someone.

Suddenly, the shadow moved and threw itself on Yushiro, knocking him to the ground. He immediately recognized the long white hair. It was Michinoko. She was in crisis.

Giyuu subconsciously placed his hand on the tang of his katana, but Yushiro rapidly rose on his knees and grabbed his assailant in what seemed to be a very aggressive hug.

"- Hey. Hey. It's okay, Michi. Snap out of it."

She was screaming and fighting his embrace.

"- Kaya, sedative."

One of the little girl nodded and ran to a small cabinet near the bed in which she found the medecine in a syringe. She approached Michinoko without any hesitation and administered it. They all seemed surprisingly used to all this.

The headmistress kept fighting for a bit until she exhausted herself. Then, she started to cry in Yushiro's arms. Her distorted screams became understable sobs.

“- I'm sorry. I'm so sorry …

- Yup. It is a really dumb thing you just did. Pushing yourself into such a crisis ? Come on, we are way past that now, aren't we ?

- Yes, but, you know, ... he ...

- I know, Kyaroru. I know.”

Slowly but surely, Michinoko calmed down. Yushiro stayed with her until she fell asleep. Giyuu couldn't move. He kept staring at the scene until eventually, Yushiro opened the door on him.

“- YOU ! Of course you !”, he loudly whispered

The healer closed the door behind him and grabbed the hashira by the arm, dragging him down the stairs, away from Michinoko's room.

"- You talked to her, didn't you ?

- I ... I'm sorry.

- What do you want from her ? Explanations ? Apologies ?

- No, I …

- I can give this to you. She was turned into a demon and she killed your sister. When she regained her will, she fled and hid herself from everyone until Tamayo found her. She was the second known demon freed from Muzan, and she has helped us with the sick ever since.

- I …

- She forgave herself for the murder of Tsutako. Your sister sacrificed herself to protect you, it was an honorable gesture and made Michi snap out of Muzan's influence. She will forever be grateful to her, and that's was she named her wing after her. What Michi never accepted, what still haunts her to this day is how she could attack you in the first place. You who only ever showed kindness and understanding. How could she attack you and then let everyone think you were a deranged liar for accusing her ?

- It wasn't her fault, she was infected !

- Don't you think she knows that ? If it was that easy, we wouldn't have a whole hospital dedicated to redemption and forgiveness.”

Giyuu starred at nothing, speechless.

“- She will talk to you when she is ready. IF she is ever ready. Until then, I advise you to focus on your mission. You are needed here. And protecting this hospital is also protecting her.”

[yanderes-galore]

Hcs for how a rivalry (romantic) would happen between Connor and his superior model RK-900? Thank you!

Sure! This takes place in an AU where Connor deviates upon knowing he's being replaced and is on the run from Cyberlife.

I'd like feedback as I had so many ideas for this, I want to know how I did! Hope you like it :) This could totally be a longer fic due to the endings ans choices. I'm so happy with this.

Ngl, new fav fic of mine. This is long. I need to write more D:BH.

Yandere! Connor (RK800) vs RK900

Pairing: Rivalry - Romantic

Possible Trigger Warnings: Gender-Neutral Darling, Obsession, Kidnapping, Guns, Murder, Forced kissing, Possessive behavior, Moral conflict, Rivalry, Deviancy, Android/Human, Overprotective behavior, Blood mention, Stalking, Invasion of privacy, Trauma.

You knew Connor first

The android was cold at times but you knew he was just doing what his programming told him.

You worked at the police station, while Connor was assigned to Hank, the android often looked towards you.

It was against his programming to ask about you, yet you still saw him walk over to you.

You weren't opposed to androids unlike your colleagues, yet you didn't want to encourage Connor to be off task.

"Hello, Officer (Y/N)."

"Hey, Connor. Need something?"

"No. I was just checking in. Are you doing fine with organizing crime files?"

"Yes... but you should really go back to Hank, Connor."

"Do you not like me standing here?"

"I just don't want to distract you, Connor."

"I am not on duty as of now. Do I make you uncomfortable?"

This Connor is a combination of sticking with his coding and being a deviant.

He's deviant enough to still have some sort of obsession towards you, but cold enough to go against other deviants.

You have no idea how you affect the android.

You bring out the flaws within him.

The flaws that push him to looking for info about you.

When you aren't around, Connor snoops.

He looks through your computer for the most part.

It would be strange if he asked others about personal info.

He also isn't deviant enough to stalk.

Then, once Connor completes his missions, you meet RK900.

It surprises you when you meet the newer model, he looks exactly like Connor but with different clothing.

This leaves you dreading what happened to Connor....

"What happened to Connor?"

"RK800? He is being hunted by Cyberlife. In short, he is on the run."

"On the run...?"

"Yes. I have been assigned to Lt. Hank Anderson... Cyberlife told me you are also on the case. The uprising is finished. We just need to find RK800 now."

Something about the way RK900 talks puts you on edge.

Connor ran away? So he was a deviant....

It saddened you to know he probably ran due to the fear of being replaced....

No one likes to be replaced, human or android.

This is how RK900 gets attached to you.

He is aware you were close with the deviant, thinking you'll be the key to finding him.

He is a better model of RK800, meant to iron out the imperfections of his predecessor.

Although, turns out they missed one or two.

While not as open about it as Connor, he still feels an attachment towards you.

Through the hunt of Connor, RK900 appears to care more and more about you.

He also keeps trying to convince you Connor's dangerous.

"If you see the deviant, contact me."

"You mean Connor-"

"The name is not needed. Promise you'll call for back up."

"Fine... I promise."

You have no idea that when you're with RK900, Connor is keeping an eye on you.

Finally full deviant, Connor stalks you and his replacement.

It hurts him to know you were stuck alongside someone who looks like him... but isn't him

Connor is now without his LED, body covered in a large hood and baggy pants.

He needed a disguise that would hide his appearance... this is what he could come up with.

He doesn't look like the Connor you used to know.

He looks a bit too human.

He never wanted to be on the run, yet he never wanted to be replaced either.

In fact... he wished he could have you on the run with him.

It would be unsafe, but he really misses you.

Watching you with that RK900 upsets him, too.

Perhaps during the investigation, when RK900 finally leaves you be, Connor pulls you into an alleyway.

You go to scream... but those eyes are familiar.

"Don't say anything. I promise I won't hurt you."

"Connor? Is that really you?"

"I missed you, (Y/N)... Truthfully, I think of you a lot."

"That's... flattering- What is your plan? Are you going to run until your thirium pump stalls?"

"I want to get out of the city... you need to come with."

"... Connor, no, I-"

"Please, (Y/N). I promise we'll live a good life. Just help me-"

"...."

You're left with two choices.

Go with Connor and help him out of the city or stick with RK900 to turn Connor in.

>>> Leave with Connor.

"Fine, I'll help you out."

If you agree to Connor's offer, he's ecstatic.

Unable to control his fabricated form of love, he leans down and kisses you.

His lips are cold, a faux sense of desperation in his movements.

He then pulls away, readjusting the hood.

"I knew you'd say yes."

You then disappear with Connor, alerting RK900.

You were done investigating your area, right?

Why weren't you back?

The chase for Connor intensifies, now realizing you're gone too.

You're now suspected of helping the deviant, your arrest now being thought of.

Connor's grip on you is intense.

He's extremely protective of you and you help him try to leave Detroit.

When escape is within your grasp, RK900 stops you both.

"Connor, look out!"

A gunshot is heard, thirium spilling out from Connor's hood.

"RK800. Release your hostage!"

RK900 has a gun pointed at Connor, meanwhile Connor has you behind him.

"(Y/N) is no hostage.... we're happy!"

Connor pulls a gun from his pocket, pointing it at RK900.

"Back up is on its way, RK800."

You look fearfully between the two.

This could end one of two ways....

>>> RK900 shoots first

"No... leave us alone- I refuse to comply."

"You leave me no choice, RK800. You'd be disassembled anyways."

With quick speed, RK900 shoots Connor between the eyes.

You scream as the deviant hits the ground, RK900 pocketing his gun.

"Now listen, (Y/N). Your arrest is being considered. However, if you come with me with the explanation you're a hostage... you'll be fine. If not... a cell is waiting for you."

You stare warily towards Connor, deactivated on the ground.

Dead upon the head wound.

"... If you say so...."

RK900 then takes you into his hold, walking you back to the station.

"You know..."

RK900 starts, gray eyes looking towards you.

"If you wanted attention from him, I could give you just that."

Your eyes widen, staring up at the android.

It clicks in your head once you get to the station...

He's a deviant too.

>>> Connor shoots first

Before giving RK900 a chance to speak, Connor shoots.

A bullet hits his neck, then another in his head.

In retaliation, RK900 shoots but it misses you both.

Damaged on the ground, RK900 lays motionless.

"Okay, Connor, let's run-"

*Bang bang bang*

Connor shoots three more unneeded rounds into RK900 before tugging you along and pocketing his gun.

"Come on."

His tone is cold once again, pushing you two on a bus heading out of town.

Connor sits you by a window seat and him next to you.

You're caged in, Connor's brown gaze fixated on you.

"(Y/N)."

You look to him, the situation setting in.

"... Can we kiss again?"

"Connor... why?"

"I like to think... I'm yours. So, please, show me I am."

"... if you really want it"

It'll be a long bus ride... you aren't even sure if this is the right decision in the end.

>>> Refuse Connor's offer.

"No, Connor."

He looks to process the information before pressing you closer against the wall.

"I NEED you, (Y/N)!"

Cold lips force themselves against yours, silencing your screams for help.

That is until a gunshot is heard, thirium pooling out of Connor.

"Release Officer (Y/N), deviant."

RK900 points a gun towards Connor, Connor pulls away, pulling a gun of his own.

"No..."

This could end one of three ways.

>>> RK900 shoots Connor

"Very well then, RK800."

*bang*

Connor lets you go, crashing into the alleyway.

You flinch at the loud sound, RK900 putting away his weapon before coaxing you close to him.

He notices you shaking, eyes narrowing at the damaged deviant.

"It'll be okay, (Y/N)... I've got you. I'll protect you."

Normally, he'd ignore your shaking hug.

Although...he felt different.

The obvious culprit would be deviancy.

Which would mean memory wiping... or worse.

RK900 silences such thoughts and decides to hide them from you, for now.

You may not be emotionally stable enough to handle it, anyway.

RK900 presses you to his chest, chin on your head.

He'll comfort you... then take you back.

After removing Connor... RK900 felt... relief.

Was it because you're no longer in danger...?

Or was it because you're finally all his?

>>> Connor shoots RK900

"I'd never give (Y/N) up."

*bang bang bang*

RK900 is caught off guard, falling to the ground.

Connor then holds you crushingly close to his body, making a run for it.

Even though you struggle, he ignores it, throwing you over his shoulder.

You'll understand he cares for you in time...

For now, he needs to focus on getting you both out of town.

"I know you don't understand, (Y/N)... but I'm yours, and I hope you'll be mine.

In this case, while it ends similarly to the "Accept Connor" choice...

You really are a hostage this time.

>>> Connor shoots you

"If I'm leaving... then (Y/N) is too."

"Connor, what!?"

The barrel is pressed against your head, the cold metal freezing your skin.

"(Y/N)!"

*bang bang*

Gunshots sync together, leaving only one android active.

You lay on the ground, gunshot to the head taking you out.

Connor lays next to you, shot to the head damaging his processors.

His embrace is still tight around you.

RK900's LED flickers yellow, scanning what has occured.

It then went red at the realization of your death.

RK900 was speechless.

He called your name in concern... admitting deviancy.

He also felt... angry, remorseful at your death....

He was a deviant too... he could sense it.

But what was the point?

He didn't need to be deviant for anyone now.

"What happened, RK900?"

Hank asks, RK900 turning around.

"I was unable to recover Officer (Y/N). Our deviant is disabled, however."

"Dear god...."

RK900 looks back at you, LED continuing to flicker.

In his mind, his mission failed.

[dottie-mcveigh]

To: d.m.mcveigh@freemail.com From: btw@wayneenterprises.com It is a hard thing to have one's personal pain transfigured into spectacle. Truly, with all my soul, I am sorry for both. May you find healing, if not peace. B

To: btw@wayneenterprises.com

From: d.m.mcveigh@freemail.com

B,

I find myself in a crisis of… belief, if not faith.

My entire career and a large portion of my life has been dedicated to the exposé of crimes to protect and inform the public. For their own safety and security.

Conscience ought to tell me I should write the truth myself, unmask myself for the public’s own protections. But I am afraid.

Afraid of the justice system, of the fear, of being known.

I have never been the danger before. O says that I can’t be blamed, be held guilty for what was done in a drug-induced state. But if I cannot be guilty, why do I feel burdened by the need to atone? I would not even know where to begin with making up for what I have done.

I endangered a child. I offered a small token of apology to the boy without admitting my fault. (You might have to take your newly acquired adopter to the zoo when it reopens, my apologies)

I feel strangely like I have to go to confession, and earn penance. But recitations or rosaries would help when I am not devotional. It would feel hollow.

I suppose I should feel relieved I was not a threat enough to be hunted by the local vigilante cohorts. That my actions of harm caused — inconvenience, at minimum, to an institution I don’t respect. But what if a murderer walks free because their case files were only digitised in the archives I erased?

And why do I feel so angry that it didn’t even work? That Crane is still at large and could strike any moment?

Dottie