#aesthetic: something called love [egon and riley]

[st-riley-the-brave]

The G+G One-Shot Challenge|Day 11

Ghost+Grave 26: After Hours.

[One-shot based on this very prompt.

For @realghostbusteregonspengler 💓]

“…whew. What a bust.”

“…whew. What a night.”

It had been a crazy night for both the Ghostbuster and his Gravekeeper. Egon and his teammates had a Class 6 ghost to tackle. Meanwhile Riley and Audergine had a long, suspiciously quiet Night’s Watch… which turned out that Doctor Rowan’s mother had finally died after a long illness. And for them that meant digging a grave and preparing a coffin for the body.

Once back at the Firehouse, Egon was joined by Riley, and the two took a much-needed shower. Freshly cleaned of the muck and grit, the two got into their jammies and got into bed.

Cuddle mode: activated.

“So how was your night, handsome?” Riley asked her future husband.

“Mine was exhausting, complete with a bust” Egon replied. “How was yours, beautiful?”

“Exhausting, complete with a freshly-dug grave” his future wife answered.

“Oh no–who died?”

“Doctor Row'n’s Mother. She’d been ill for quite a while. It was only a matter o'time.”

Egon nodded. “I understand.”

Riley sighed, nodding as well. “Thank'ee, love… it was a long, quiet night.”

“Well it’s over, Aurelia” Egon whispered, kissing her forehead. “We’ve made it. We’re together now. You’re here with me.”

“I know” Riley whispered back, smiling. “And it’s th'nicest feeling in the world, being with you.”

Egon smiled warmly at her. “The feeling is mutual, always.”

A few minutes of comfortable silence fell around the betrothed couple… and this time it was Egon who spoke first. “Thank you again for the Mizpah coin. I’m wearing my half… whenever I look at it I wonder how you’re doing…”

Riley smiled softly. “You’re welcome, Egon… I’m always thinking of you when I touch my half of the coin.”

“That coin is very symbolic. And it’s special.” He held his half of the coin in his hand.

“There’s meaning behind it. All the more when our halves come together.” She took her half of the coin and placed it together with his, forming the whole of the coin.

Egon clasped her half-holding hand in his. “And we come together.”

“And everything falls into place.”

“I know you and I already are but… Aurelia Marie Cranston… will you marry me?”

“Egon Spengler, I certainly will.”

The Ghostbuster touched the tip of his nose to hers, smiling again. “Riley” he whispered, “let’s get married.”

The Gravekeeper smiled back at him. “Let’s get married, Egon” she whispered.

And the hands still holding the coin together, stayed clasped as Egon lovingly kissed his fiancée. He then held her tightly as she nuzzled his neck, another warm silence fell between them.

“…I missed you, Egon.”

“I missed you too, Riley… I missed you more.”

“I can’t wait ‘til we tell ev'ryone… Slimer is goin’ t'be so happy for us.”

“I can imagine Jim crying in joy over the news…”

“And Peter bein’ all sorts of elated for us…”

“And Audergine probably hugging the stuffing out of us both…”

Riley took his face in her hands. “Shh… that moment’ll happen in due time, Egon” she whispered.

Egon nodded. “Indeed, and when it happens… it will happen” he whispered quietly. “For now however… let’s get some sleep.”

Riley nodded. “Yes… let’s.”

Her future husband gave her a loving kiss on her lips, before holding her tightly as he fell asleep. Egon always felt safe around his future wife… Riley was his protectress, and he her guardian. There was something mutual and warm about this love… messy at times, yes, but this love was and is very real.

[st-riley-the-brave]

“Well… how ‘bout we take you plus me and… make a ‘we’ out of it?”

– Riley’s marriage proposal to Egon

Aesthetic for @realghostbusteregonspengler

[st-riley-the-brave]

The G+G One-Shot Challenge|Day 9

Ghost+Grave 24 ~ The Anti-Princess: A Secret Moment’s Reprieve… [Set in the Anti-Princess Alternate Universe. Also starring @realghostbusteregonspengler and @umghostbusters Lengthy but lovely one-shot in which the Princess has chosen her Prince… Incorporating “All I Ask Of You” from “Phantom of the Opera.” Warning: Some mild language involved. Nothing vulgar however, but just a heads up in that regard.

Dedicated to, well, all of you.]

“…Riles, you mean…!?”

"Shh, Kevin. They’ll hear you, damnit.”

Her Royal Highness hated these sort of things. Balls. They were nothing short of irksome. And thank God her loyal sidekick–er, guard–was at her side. But tonight… this was different. Her father the King was luckily a trite too drunk to notice that her daughter had eyes for one of the visiting nobles… a prince. One she had the brass ones to sneak away out of the castle one day with Kevin–and the next thing she knew, she was sitting with the prince under a tree while they were discussing what he was reading. Why she left the castle in the first place. What life was like in their respective castles that sometimes felt like dungeons.

In an unexpected twist of fate, she found herself trying to spend more time with him–of course, with Kevin’s guardianship. Kevin was her best friend, her loyal guard who knew how to cover their asses better than half the nobility in the land. Riley was no idiot. Neither was Kevin. And given that the Princess strove to try to better understand the her people–the people she cared about–it was almost no surprise that she would take a moment out of her outside adventures to try to see Egon… who understood the kind of woman she was.

This ball however… her father was gracious to invite Prince Egon, and he wasted no time in making his way to the festivities. Oh! the pomp! The pageantry!

…the two-faced balogna-and-queso that Riley just was not up for dealing with.

Her father, drunk with wine and merry to all hell, at one point wanted to set her up with a duke and see what happened. Then again, the duke saw that the Princess was uncomfortable, and opted to ask for her recommendation on whom he’d be better set up with. Thankfully Riley knew one of her few good friends–Lady Rebecca, or Remy as she was known as–who was both beautiful and single… and with Kevin’s help, set the two up.

But at one point… Riley had decided to confide to Kevin that, she’d found herself falling for Prince Egon. But she had to silence her best friend quick–God forbid anyone else overheard. Then again, no one noticed how close she and the Prince were dancing… or how they locked eyes frequently… or the secret smiles they shared. Except for Kevin of course. But now her father, still drunk and merry, wanted to set his daughter up for marriage–and that was when she wanted to leave the ball. Now. And that meant sneaking out–which freaked her guard out. She was livid… she was scared.

Quickly, she tried to sneak out. Kevin was quick to motion to Egon to follow her–which the Prince did, followed by the Princess’ guardian. The guards at the door of the ballroom, and through the rest of the castle for that matter, dare not questioned the Princess as she stormed down the halls, trying not to cry but furious as she could be. Prince Egon and Kevin followed her as fast as they could, trying not to startle Riley, as they were afraid a situation could result.

The next thing Kevin knew–and bless that guard’s heart!–his Princess had snuck into the Observatory; there was a gate that opened onto the roof of one area of the castle. Her favorite place to sneak out and hide away from the hells of being a royal. And tonight, it was lit only by the full moon that held its sway over the clear night sky. Right now… she had no place else to go. The ball was no longer fun to be in… not that it ever was but…

But it was in the Observatory that she snuck in, and had to breathe. Kevin and Egon followed her, keeping quiet for a moment as not to startle her… but it was the Prince who softly got her attention, knew exactly how she was feeling as he could see glistening tears falling down her cheeks. She hated the ball, she hated the pomp, she hated the fakery in abundance, she hated the hypocrisy… she hated being a royal. And right now, he was going to be her saving grace, as he sang to her…

“No more talk of darkness, Forget these wide-eyed fears– I’m here, nothing can harm you, my words will warm and calm you…”

Riley turned to look at him as he sang, raising a puzzled brow. “You followed me?” she mouthed quietly, but listening to him as he sang further…

“Let me be your freedom, let daylight dry your tears. I’m here with you, beside you, to guard you and to guide you…”

By then she had turned to walk to the gate, and onto the open area of the roof that was secured by gargoyles. Riley sang in reply to his pleading, a plea of her own as he followed her…

“Say you love me every waking moment, turn my head with talk of summertime… Say you need me with you now and always… Promise me that all you say is true– that’s all I ask of you…”

Egon took her hand, held it to his heart as he joined her on the roof. Riley turned to face him as he sang in turn,

“Let me be your shelter, let me be your light– You’re safe, No one will find you, your fears are far behind you…”

Meanwhile Kevin quietly kept watch from within the Observatory as the two were together. Riley seemed to have forgotten her guard was nearby as she sang to Egon…

“All I want is freedom, a world with no more night and you, always beside me, to hold me and to hide me…”

It was then that Egon sang to her… almost as a proposal–

“Then say you’ll share with me one love, one lifetime– let me lead you from your solitude… Say you need me with you here, beside you… anywhere you go, let me go too–

Riley, that’s all I ask of you…”

Riley took in everything he had sang, and realised that what they had–it was love. And it was real. And his love… she gladly reciprocated,

“Say you’ll share with me one love, one lifetime… say the word and I will follow you…”

Kevin kept the watch, smiling to himself in amazement as the two royals sang together, “Share each day with me, each night, each morning…”

“Say you love me…” Riley whispered.

“You know I do…” Egon replied softly. The Princess’ voice joined with his as they gently sang, pleaded one thing from each other:

“Love me - that’s all I ask of you…”

Kevin was happier than a partridge in a pear tree as he watched his brave Princess and the Prince she’d chosen share a kiss that sealed their promise. The guard was more than happy for the two, as Egon held her in his arms and spun around joyfully. He then set her down, as the two sang once more,

“Anywhere you go let me go too– Love me - that’s all I ask of you…”

And the silence that followed the two… seemed to last forever. Felt like it could. Egon pulled Riley into a warm embraced and kissed her once again. And Kevin? He certainly wasn’t the third wheel–but their guard, their watchman if you will. Making sure no one went into the Observatory, because the last thing he and the two royals needed, was to get found out.

Not happening tonight.

The three snuck back into the ball, and Riley was in far better spirits after what she’d experienced. Kevin kept a good close watch as the Princess and Prince Egon stayed close to each other, taking every chance to dance together as they could. Maybe then the other royals would take a hint–that perhaps, this was a love no one and nothing else was going to mess around with…

[st-riley-the-brave]

“Love me… that’s all I ask of you…”

[Inspired by this post.

For you all. And especially for @realghostbusteregonspengler. 💓]

[st-riley-the-brave]

Ghost+Grave 28: Nevertheless…

[The One-Shot Challenge|Day 13. The sequel to the first Ghost and Grave story. One-shot in which the two time-travel to the 1940’s…

For @realghostbusteregonspengler because they finally got to do this. They so deserved this dance.]

Every now and then, Riley felt like dressing up and taking a time trip. Bring Egon along. Just because.

Tonight was one of those “just because” kind of nights.

Finally she had the opportunity to take a time trip to the year 1949, in which they found themselves at a big band dance. Riley looked amazing in a black dress with white polka dots… Egon was smitten over her, himself smartly dressed in a suit and tie. Which almost made her swoon.

Someone out the needle on the record and the Andrews Sisters started playing. The Gravekeeper grinned, as she had discovered some of their songs and loved what she heard. Egon, seeing her reaction, smiled and asked if he may have this dance. Riley smiled back at him and happily accepted as “Nevertheless” played…

Maybe I’m right, maybe I’m wrong, Maybe I’m weak, maybe I’m strong But nevertheless I’m in love with you… Maybe I’ll win, maybe I’ll lose, And maybe I’m in for crying the blues But nevertheless I’m in love with you…

“So how did you come across the Andrews Sisters, Riley?” Egon asked with a curious smirk as they slow-danced.

“‘Twas on an oldies radio station while I was waitin’ for you t'get out of th'shower, th'afternoon we got engaged” Riley replied with a shy smile.

Egon was surprised. “Oh really?”

His fiancé nodded in reply.

Somehow, I know at a glance, the terrible chances I’m taking– Fine at the start, then left with a heart that is breaking…

Suddenly the Gravekeeper blinked. “Y'know, I just remembered somethin’, love” she said quietly.

The Ghostbuster raised a brow. “What is it, dear?”

Maybe I’ll live a life of regret, and maybe I’ll give much more than I get But nevertheless, I’m in love with you.-

“Remember when we first talked about coming here t'this time… goin’ t'something like this? And I made you your Time Key?”

Egon blinked and blushed… the memory returning to him. “Actually… yes, I do” he replied, the smile becoming a grin. “And here we are now…”

Riley blushed. “Funny how it all comes t'gether, eh?” she asked, giving him a shy smile.

He kissed his fiancée on the forehead. “It all came together perfectly, sweetheart” he replied softly.

Somehow, I know at a glance, the terrible chances I’m taking– Fine at the start, then left with a heart that is–that is breaking, that is breaking…

Overcome with love, Riley sang along softly at the last verse, with Egon singing with her in harmony–because it just worked…

Maybe I’ll live a life of regret, and maybe I’ll give much more than I get But nevertheless, nevertheless, nevertheless… I’m in love with you.

[st-riley-the-brave]

The G+G One-Shot Challenge|Day 6

Ghost+Grave 21: Museum Date

[One-shot in which Egon and Riley go to the museum. For @realghostbusteregonspengler 💓]

If you ever wanted to see a most amused Riley, today was it.

Egon suggested a date at the museum and it, perhaps, one of their funniest dates ever. And it became such because of Egon… who was in absolute fanboy mode as they made their way through the museum. Now Riley had never really been inside a museum before, and such had often been heard of in bigger cities. Like, say, London. So this was consideably new to her… and exciting as heck to Egon.

“And this is the tyrannosaurus rex!” he said excitedly as they came upon the skeleton of one giant dinosaur. “The great king of the dinosuars. This was probably the most feared of all.”

Riley chuckled. “Well he’s got some short arms, love!”

“Made up for by his ferocious teeth” Egon replied with a smile. He pointed out the t-rex’s teeth, which both fascinated and terrified her. He then got distracted by another set of bones–“Wait! Here, meet this one!” he said happily, dragging her to the skeleton of the triceratops.

“Aww!” Riley squealed as she looked up at the herbivore. “This ‘un seems like a rather gentle 'un!”

“Mhm!” Egon hummed with a nod, pleased that Riley would take a liking to the dinosuar. “This one has three horns–hence why the name 'triceratops’, 'tri’ meaning for three.”

“That is so… aw 'ell, what’s the word you all use?” she asked quietly before giving a quick moment’s thought. “Ah! Yes. I believe the word is, 'cool’?”

Egon laughed. “'Cool’ would work here, yes” he answered reassuringly. It was cute when Riley would try to use words and phrases relevant to the modern-day time frame. He admired her for the effort… well, not that he didn’t admire her for anything. In any case, her effort only had him falling in love with her all the more.

His time-crossed fiancée. Too cute for words.

“Riley! Quick” Egon could be seen moments later calling to her. “Look at these geodes!!” His future wife laughed as he all but ran to the geode exhibit. Once she caught up, he explained about geodes and the different crystals that would form in them. Riley was very much fascinated about the geodes, curious as to how the crystals grew the way they did. That, Egon explained happily.

“Egonnnnnnn!” Riley gasped excitedly upon seeing the Planetarium sign moments later. “Can we go, can we go, can we go? Pleeeaaaase?” Egon’s face lit up seeing her excited for the Planetarium… how could he say no?

“I take it you’ve never been to a Planetarium before, Riley?” he laughed, linking his arm with hers.

“Nope!” she replied. “But it looks really cool to go to!”

“The Planetarium is a very fun part of the museum” he said as the two entered and sat, quietly watching the presentation. Every couple of minutes, he would turn to delight in Riley’s face, the way she was in awe at the reality of space. Constellations, planets, galaxies. Stars, moons and suns. The cosmos fascinated her like her fiancé could not believe.

They would need to dedicate more free nights to stargazing. Maybe their honeymoon…?

“That. Was. AWESOME” Riley gushed once they were outside the Planetarium. “I never thought there were that many stars in our solar system!”

“Well now you know” Egon laughed in reply, smiling at her. “There are just so much more beyond what you saw the other night. What you just saw, gave you a pretty good idea of just how broad our galaxy really is.”

“And how amazing” Riley added.

Moments later…

“Riley!! Hurry up!”

Riley was observing an exhibit about how cows digested their food, when Egon called her over to where the incubator was. “What’s this, love?” she asked curiously.

“This is an incubator” Egon answered. “You see these eggs and little chicks?”

“Mhm” Riley replied with a nod.

“Well this, the incubator helps regulate temperature. This keeps the eggs warm and helps them to hatch–like this one” Egon explained, pointing to an egg that was being pecked at from the inside. “Ever seen a chick hatch?”

“N-no” she replied in anticipation.

“Well here’s a pretty cool first for us both then” Egon replied as he and Riley both watched the beginning of a hatching. They were soon joined by a couple passing by… then a group of curious kids… then more people. And before the couple knew it, there was a small crowd of people with them cheering “Go, go, go go!” as they watched the chick peck through its shell.

Welcome to the world, indeed.

Cheers and applause erupted as the chick hatched out of its shell. Riley was so happy she almost began to cry. Egon hugged her, sharing in the joy. Seeing her like that…

“…that made my heart swell, love” he commented as the two sat together, sharing some chocolate chip cookies and drinking hot cocoa at the small café a little while later. “I had never seen you this fascinated or happy before.”

“Well it was certainly an experience I won’t be forgetting anytime soon” she replied with a warm smile. “This whole day has been wonderful… thank you.”

“You are muchly welcome” he said before giving her forehead a kiss. “We will need to go again sometime.”

“That’d be lovely!” she answered. “I would love to see the dinosuars again, and the giant flying machine, and the little chickies!!”

Egon smiled lovingly at his gushing Riley… and he thought he was passionate about the museum!?

[st-riley-the-brave]

👻+💀 9

Ghost+Grave 9: Resolve [*Very* lengthy one-shot. In which Riley deals with more work-related bull-cheese. A glimpse into Night’s Watch documentation. And of course, a little bit of post-Watch de-stress time.]

For @realghostbusteregonspengler 🌟

“…God blessed–”

It took everything in Riley’s power to keep from swearing in the Cemetery. But when facing the last-minute alert that the local Catholic archbishop was paying a visit within the next two days, Riley was anything but ready for visitors. Hell, she’d be happier if he didn’t show his face at her gates. But if he wanted to officiate a requiem at her abode, fine. Thankfully she would be asleep by then anyhow.

But tonight was filled with another updating of documents pertaining to the Night’s Watch. She scribbled in her notebook with each permission paper she saw. The Watch had a serious protocol–for one, guarding against grave thieves, a system was implemented. Anyone who wanted to visit the Cemetery after dark, needed to obtain permission from the Office of the Magistrate in writing. Involved were the who’s-who: the person or persons who were related to the deceased; and who the deceased was; and if anything was buried with them, the what. And there was identification made especially for the Watch–whenever the visitor made a stop, especially the first couple of visits, they needed the permission document as their identification. Riley or the Constable on duty would check the document, and allow them in. Once they became more like regular visitors, Riley or the Constable on duty would simply welcome them.

The only occasion the strict restriction was lifted, was for the Vigil of All Souls, on All Hallows Night. Riley would simply hide herself in the section of the Cemetery where her family is buried, and simply watch on in solitude as grieving families visited their departed loved ones. At midnight there would be Eucharist celebrated, and Riley stayed where she felt safest–away from everyone, though they knew she’d keep the Watch for all of them. The Vigil of All Souls was, perhaps, the community holiday of Stormy Oaks.

This recent set of paperwork, however, had a pleasant surprise for the Gravekeeper: a special Night’s Watch documentation made for Egon. Her eyes widened as she read the document–

+ Night’s Watch Division, Office of the Magistrate, Stormy Oaks, England

Visitation Document

Name: Doctor Egon Spengler Homeplace: New York Relative(s) buried: None– beloved of Aurelia Marie Cranston, appointed Honorary Auxiliary Gravekeeper by order of Mayor James Livingston

Signed: Nathaniel Anderson, Lord Magistrate, Stormy Oaks, England +

“…Nathaniel, you son of a…” Riley laughed, shaking her head as she read the document and placed the notes in the Auxiliary Gravekeepers section, in the front of the notebook. It was a rare occasion that her Godfather should be thankful not to be in her presence to hear her censor herself! But she was in the right frame of mind to thank him for the document, and to thank Jim for the appointing of Egon as an Honorary. “Well deserving, I think” she chuckled as she completed recording the document in the notebook, before finishing the rest of the paperwork.

“Aye, Cranston” a voice called out. Riley looked up from the bench and lanternglow–it was Constable Wright. “Y'done with the latest paperwork I take it?”

“Yes, Anthony, I just finished up. Why, what last-minute ‘gossip’ do I need to put up with now?” she asked, looking up at him with exasperation.

Wright shook his head. “No, Rile, no gossip” he replied. “Jus’ checkin’ up on ya, y'look tired.”

Riley took a deep breath… and sighed. “Yeah… yeah, I’m tired” she admitted.

“How ‘bout you get some rest?” Wright suggested. “I know it’s not 6 yet, but Sean and I are here. Y'should go get some sleep. Go visit Dr. Spengler… I think it’ll do y'good, Rile.”

The Gravekeeper looked down at the paperwork and nodded. “Y'know… you’re right” she said, collecting the paperwork and notebook. “I will do that. And I’ll see you in a night or two.”

The Constable laughed watching as Riley hurried into the House'oleum to put all but one piece of paper away. She then gave good night hugs to Gabriel and the cats, and blew a kiss to Icarus and the owls before returning inside to change into her sleeping gown. Then, grabbing her Time Key, she–and the Key and document–made her way to the Firehouse… and a sleeping Egon. With a book on his chest.

It always warmed her heart seeing him that way.

As usual she took the book and, closing it, placed it on the nightstand. Next was the glasses, placed on the book. Then, the document placed on the book, held in place by the glasses. Afterwards she sat down at the side of the bed and took one of his hands in hers. He felt so warm…

he squeezed her hand. He knew she was here.

Her heart felt full as he held her hand tightly. The last time she got to feel that warmth, was just the other night. The last time she was over, after dinner at the Godparents’ and a glass of wine. One drunk hot kiss, making out ensued, and the next morning they were in bed and in their underlings. Awkward, but adorable.

Her free hand went to the scar on the back of her neck, where he had left plenty a kiss. Normally this scar associated with her first near-death Watch. Now however, her pulse would react at the new memories.

That same hand went to touch his cheek, and a smile of resolve graced her face. She leaned over and, with as much courage as when she was drunk… gave him a long, hot kiss good night.

Egon stirred enough to let go of her other hand, and held her to him. Because with his resolve, and as her kiss did wake him up, there was no way he was going to let this break for a good while…

[st-riley-the-brave]

Lanternburn

She had seen many a heaven, many a hell, many a dream and nightmare come to pass but he... he was different.

It wasn't like before.

She swore she would never see the day that she would find herself wishing on stars; she refused to believe there was someone for her. She would even call it a blantant lie-- but that all changed when she traveled to the future, and far away.

And unbeknownst to her, that day he saved her life was the day he began to change her life. And it was only a matter of time until she found herself at love's mercy and at last... she had to give in.

It took a pillow fight to get here.

But to her his love is like the stars that spark through gaps in leaves and echoes of songs long forgotten. And to him her love is like the quiet storm that could last for hours and the brightest of sunglow in spring. And...

and even in the darkest of hours, their time-crossed love is like lanternglow.

[st-riley-the-brave]

The G+G One-Shot Challenge|Day 7

Ghost+Grave 22: The End of a Long Night

Riley was… drained.

What seemed like a quiet Night’s Watch, turned a bit ugly when Anthony was threatened by a couple of marauders. Thankfully Magistrate Hughes stopped in to help the Constable apprehend them. And Riley was able to breathe easier, which was good because if she didn’t need to kill anyone, then tonight was a good night. But the incident went down at one in the morning and that meant, exhausted as she was, she still had a good five hours to go.

Not a happy camper.

An hour and a half had passed before Riley got word of little Gregory from the orphanage falling ill. Now Gregory was a recent arrival at the orphanage, having lost his mother while she was giving birth to him, and his father due to a shipwreck. Riley almost considered having Anthony adopt him, but the Constable felt that maybe now was not the time…  But word was sent and Riley, under the advice of Doctor Rowan, was forced to prepare for the worst. Sure enough, at almost four in the morning, Gregory had died and Riley… was heartbroken. And Anthony felt even worse–so much so that he voluntarily dug the child’s grave himself. The Gravekeeper was at a loss for words to console her second father.

Gabriel, the cocker spaniel, flopped beside her as she sat down inside the underground parlor of the House’oleum. “I don’t know ‘bout you, Gabriel” she sighed, looking to her floppy fur-son, “but I’m tired. Are you tired?” The pup barked in reply, and Riley chuckled. He could relate. “Aye, it’s almost over, buddy” she laughed as she scratched behind his ear. “It’s almost dawn. You’ll be fast asleep before y’know it.”

Six o’clock couldn’t get here fast enough as Riley let the owls and Anthony finish the watch. She took a quick bath, then made her way to the Firehouse and sure enough… the Ghostbusters were all out like lights.

The Gravekeeper rolled her eyes. “Holy ‘ell, lads” she muttered to herself.

Ray only made it as far as the kitchen table. Winston plopped and dropped on the couch. Peter curled up on the floor near the couch. And Egon… forced himself to get to bed.

Riley looked to Slimer, who made an appearance when he realised she was here, and she put a finger over her mouth. The Class 5 Ghost in residence obeyed the strict command of silence as she went and got blankets to cover Ray, Winston and Peter. She then made her way upstairs and saw Egon in bed without a blanket… and sighed.

Her sleeping betrothed. Too bloody adorable.

A loving smile graced her face as she tucked him in and, after a moment’s thought, crawled into bed beside him. Immediately Egon knew who was in the bed with him, and wrapped his arms around her, holding her to him. Riley fell asleep contentedly, nowhere near minding the mess he was… after all, he didn’t mind the times she was blood-soaked and gritty with grave dirt. All of a sudden, a bath once they were awake sounded like a pretty good idea…

[st-riley-the-brave]

Ghost+Grave 14: Blessing

[Very lengthy one-shot. In which Egon meets Riley’s father–while all hell breaks loose in Stormy Oaks… Warning: Some strong language involved. Also some violence involved. Special thanks to my ship-mate @realghostbusteregonspengler for help in the brainstorm leading to this!]

Hell hath no fury like a Cemetery Guardian.

Riley and the entire Constable force were headstrong on the front as they chased off a band of marauders from just south of the town. Constable Audergine “Anthony” Wright helped lead the charge on the Constable front, while Riley stood at the cemetery gates ready to rain hell. At one point, she ended up having to take a horse and ride into battle, swinging her sickle polearm… just moments before, she took a note and rose across time to tape it to the door of the Firehouse lab. A little love note for Egon, and it was back to the battlefield. Blood was shed at the plentiful, heads rolled and very few of the marauders escaped with their lives.

“Aye, Cranst'n, y'got y'self a moment t'breathe, I hope” Anthony sighed as he and Riley rested back outside the House'oleum.

“Yeah” the Gravekeeper replied. “Barely. But those bampots are bloody aggressive… they’ll be back huntin’ for m'head before too long, Au'gine.”

“I know” the Constable answered with a nod. “I hope not. They’ll be dead before they even realise they made a legitimately deadly mistake.”

“Oh ‘ell, Constable Wright, let 'em” Riley retorted. “This won’t be the first time I’ve fought for m'homeland.”

Anthony made a face. “I know… and I’m afraid it’ll not be your last.”

Riley was quiet at the Constable’s comment. He was right… they’d be back. And she’d need to be ready for that.

"What have you, Egon love?”

“Trying to see if just maaaayyyybe I can modify the Ghost Trap just a bit.”

Riley made a visit the next day to the Firehouse, where Egon was not too far from the Containment Room tinkering with an old Trap. “By the way” the Ghostbuster said, smiling up at his future wife, “thank you for making my day yesterday.”

She leaned to kiss him. “You are very welcome” she replied, smiling lovingly. Egon blushed, grinning as he returned his attention to the Trap. He admired the Gravekeeper for so many reasons–for one, he admired her courage and two, he admired her curiosity. Just the other night he stayed over at the House'oleum and she was curious about how the Ghost Trap worked, and how the Proton Pack weighed “so bloody much.” On the other hand, he always enjoyed spending time with Riley… whether it was dealing with paperwork, or going to a book store, or having a picnic together, or simply catching up on sleep. And now, being engaged, Egon was more than excited to spend the rest of his life with her.

…engaged. It made him grin like an idiot. A cute one too.

Suddenly a portal opened and Anthony ran through, breath ragged and sword in hand. “Riley, ma'am” he said, catching his breath as he looked to her and Egon. “Dr. Spengler, sir.”

“C-Constable Wright?” Egon asked, raising a worried brow.

“F'give me, but Riley… you’re needed. Now” the Constable replied, looking to the Gravekeeper. “The m'rauders have returned…  Lord Const'ble McKenzie has been seriously injured and we’re about to send for the Phamily as well.”

“H-how bad is it, Constable…?” Riley asked nervously.

“They attacked the Orphanage” Anthony reported. “Clarabelle was injured defending the youngest ones but she’ll be fine. Doctor Rowan is there now but… we need y'now. Please.”

Riley gave a startled gasp as a gunshot was heard from the other end of the portal. Egon gave her a worried look; “Riley… go” he said quietly. “Stormy Oaks needs you and that’s your home… and I’m sure it matters to you.” He stood up and went to take her face in his hands.

“Are–are you sure, love?” she whispered cautiously as they were now nose to nose.

“Stormy Oaks matters to you, right?”

“Yes, Egon. 'Tis m'home, of course it matters to me.”

“Then it matters to me too” the Ghostbuster said, his face now more serious.

Riley took a deep breath and nodded. “Alright.”

Egon gave her a deep kiss. “Come back in one piece, please” he whispered, tears welling up in his eyes.

“I will” Riley answered, holding his face in hers. “I promise.”

“I love you, Riley.”

“I love you too, Egon.”

The two reluctantly let go of each other, and Riley went to Anthony, who handed her his sword. “Lead the way, Your Deathly Majesty” he said, a little choked up from what he’d witnessed. Riley nodded and looked to Egon, who was smiling despite the tears that had fallen, and smiled at him lovingly. With another deep breath, she turned on her heel and ran through the portal. Anthony made the sign of the cross and followed after her. It made Egon chuckle as he watched the portal close.

“…my little courage” he sighed, before resuming work on the old Ghost Trap.

He then turned, realising he was missing a part–and began searching the room for it. But he made one lovely little mistake in trying to climb one shelf, because the next thing he knew he missed a footing and…

bound for the floor.

…and knocked out. Cold.

“…aye, y'finally came 'round, lad! 'Bout bloody time too. I was wonderin’ if y'were alrigh’!”

Egon blinked, finding himself in ghost form… certainly not his first time, but he was knocked out well enough. That was when a rough voice–male, Scottish and yet with a familiar lilt to it. The Ghostbuster turned to see a tall, brawny Scottish man smiling at him. Something familiar about the man… Egon tilted his head.

“Oh don’ worry, sir” the man spoke again, his smile turning into a grin. “I won’ harm ye. Cranston honor on it.”

“…Cr-Cranston?” Egon gasped, surprised.

“Aye!” the man replied heartily, going to the Ghostbuster and extending a hand. “Alexander Cranston. An’ who do I have the pleasure of meetin’?”

“Dr. Egon Spengler” Egon answered, introducing himself as he gave Alexander a firm handshake. “Pleased to meet you, Mr. Cranston.”

“Oh, jus’ use Xander, sir” Alexander laughed.

“O-okay, Xander!” Egon said.

“Now, have a chair and let’s have a chatterin’, eh?” Alexander then said, his ghostly form sitting on the floor near where Egon’s body was out cold. “Your name’s familiar… would y'be happenin’ to be seein’ a certain Aurelia Marie Cranston?”

Egon had to think for a second–he’d never really used her real name, but her nickname. “Oh–Riley?” he asked.

“Ah, yes” Alexander chuckled. “I forgot y'know her as Riley.”

“Y-yeah” Egon laughed nervously.

That was when Alexander made the realisation, and his face lit up. “Well I’ll be a wrecked nilly of a bampot!” he laughed heartily. “You’re the man that’s marryin’ m'daughter!”

And that was when Egon’s face went pale. “Y-yes, sir” he replied nervously.

“Oh don’ be 'fraid, Dr. Spengler” Alexander smiled as Egon’s ghostly form sat across from his. “I’ve heard 'bout ye–m'daughter visits the graves often and tells me, Stell and Eli about you. She’s crazy in love, but in the best way pos'ble.”

“R-really?” Egon asked, tilting his head curiously.

“Aye–she loves you, Dr. Spengler” the Cranston patriarch replied. “I only wish m'flesh hadn’ rotted so long ago. Part of 'er was worryin’ about in case y'wanted to meet her family.”

Egon nodded. “So far as I know of, history records she has no living family.”

“Very much so” Alexander confirmed. “She was still maybe 2 or 3 when I was killed by the man who’s now Constable Wright.”

Egon’s jaw dropped at the comment. “Wait… what!?”

The older man laughed heartily. “Oh don’ panic now, Doctor!” he answered. “Audergine Wright was once a sky pirate workin’ for the bastard Rotham, who was a rival of mine for Stell’s affections. Of course Stell and I would marry and have little 'Rel’ M'rie.” His smile faded as he continued. “Sadly Rotham was elected mayor of Stormy Oaks and, when the little 'un was still very young, Rotham organised a militia to battle sky pirates hailing from Germany. I was singled out for a p'ticular mission, and the next thing I knew, I was shot down by Audergine. The rest of his little legion made sure I was as good as dead.”

Egon was stunned to silence as Alexander spoke further. “'Rel’ was kidnapped at 17 by Rotham, and Audergine boldly turned against the monster and helped save the girl. He turned 'imself in after the rescue and by m'daughter’s pleadin’ was pardoned of all charges. He became a Const'ble. Changed 'is name to Anthony. If y’ve seen how the two are together, it’s because he’s taken himself to the fatherly role for 'er… he still feels like he needs to constantly repent of m'murder and really, I’d already forgiv'n 'im. I only wish he knew how t'let it go, Dr. Spengler.

The Ghostbuster sighed. "I’m sure he will in time” he finally said. “I mean, maybe he’s still struggling with the guilt of his actions…?”

“He is, believe me” Alexander sighed. “He’s a good lad, I admit. A bit of a square head on 'is shoulders. He’s using 'is experience as a former sky pirate to his advantage as a Const'ble. But he’s also humble. Took a kidnappin’ of m'daughter t'change 'im. If anythin’ I’d wish Stell married him but… she was stubborn. Proud. Wouldn’t remarry because she refused to tarnish the Cranston name.” He chuckled. “I sometimes wonder if 'Rel’ got her headstrong nature from her Mother. I know she had m'brass 'uns and her Mum’s stunnin’ looks!”

“She’s not St. Riley the Brave for nothing, Xander!” Egon laughed in agreement.

“That’s right!” Alexander confirmed.

“I haven’t really seen a picture of her Mother but… but Riley, she’s beautiful” Egon then said, blushing with a smile. “Riley is very beautiful. And kind. And gracious. The bravest woman I know. And… and one day…”

“One day, your wife?” Alexander asked, smiling warmly.

Egon nodded. “Yes… one day, I’ll be marrying her.”

The patriarch chuckled. “So y'know… she’s 31, but she stopped countin’ 'er age when her Mother and Eli died. She only remembers bein’ 20 and her birthday will be comin’ up soon. The 6th of June. She hasn’t celebrated it in a very long time and if not for Jim and 'is family visitin’ her, she’d forget it was even that day t'begin with.” Egon nodded slowly as Alexander spoke further. “But don’ tell 'er about 'er age or she’ll look at y'like y'lost y'mind–she literally 'as not kept track of 'er age. So another reason why some history circles are baffled t'all hell about her.”

“Makes much better sense now” Egon replied. “I can see why Riley wouldn’t mention how old she really is… she actually does not know.”

“If it keeps 'er young so she can still fight, then I suggest we keep it that way, Doctor” Alexander added.

Egon then smiled at Alexander. “By the way… well… you can call me Egon, Xander. I mean…”

Alexander blinked when Egon made that statement. “Well… I mean… alright” he then said, smiling once again. The two sat in silence, comfortable in each other’s presence. And it was after a few minutes that the patriarch spoke again–

“…by the way, you may call me Dad, if you feel so inclined.”

“–Egon!” Riley sighed in relief as her future husband woke back up. “Are you alright!?”

Egon nodded slowly, returning to consciousness to find Riley worried… and a trite injured herself. “Question is, are you alright?” he asked, slowly sitting up.

“Yes, I am” she sighed as she placed a hand to his head where he’d fallen. “Injuries are slight, all marauders killed. No deaths on the home front.” She focused her healing energies on that area. “What the 'ell happened, love?”

“I was looking for a missing part and basically lost my footing” Egon answered, resting his head on her shoulder as she continued healing him. “I guess I took one nasty fall.”

Riley nodded. “You did. You were out like a light when I got back here.”

Egon wrapped his arms around her, and she in turn held him tightly. “I’m glad Stormy Oaks is safe” he said. “I’m glad that you are safe, Riley.”

“I’m glad you’re safe as well, love” Riley replied. “I’d be devastated if it were worse than a really bad fall.”

The Ghostbuster sighed, relishing in the hug. And that’s when he remembered–“OH! And you’ll never guess what happened!” he gasped, holding her by the shoulders to look at her, smiling excitedly.

“Wait–you figured out the modifications?” Riley asked curiously.

“No… even better” he replied softly as tears began to form in his eyes again. Riley was awestruck with curiousity as he removed his glasses and began to cry, burying his face against her chest. “He… gave me his blessing–” he whispered.

Riley’s eyes began to fill to overflow with tears as she held him tightly to her. She became speechless as she began to wonder if that meant what she thought he’d meant. But Egon hugged her tightly, overwhelmed by the memory of what happened just moments before…

“'Rel’ is gon’ be back 'ere before y'know it, so I’d better get a move on” Alexander sighed, standing up. “Egon lad, 'tis an honor t'meet ye at long last.”

Egon stood up and extended a hand. “The honor was mind… Dad” he said, smiling at his future father-in-law.

Alexander gave the future son-in-law a hearty handshake. “Indeed.”

“Suppose I’ll see you again?”

“Ah well, not sure. I mean I’m not always in charge o'that, son.”

Egon nodded. “I understand.”

“By the way” Alexander spoke up, “yer a good egg. I am so thankful you’re in m'daughter’s life. I’ve watched from a quiet distance as t'how yer friendship turned into love. I just… want you t'know, y'have m'blessin’ t'marry 'er, Egon.” They both got a bit choked up. “I never thought there would come a day when I’d be sayin’ that.”

[st-riley-the-brave]

Ghost+Grave 11: The Morning After…

[One-shot. In which Riley kicks it up for breakfast for Egon… the Scottish way! Follow-up to G+G 10.

For @realghostbusteregonspengler 🌟❤]

God only knew how long the two stayed in bed. All that Riley knew however, was that for one, Egon sure had a way with her. And two, the scar on the back of her neck would not be feeling the same after all that! Eventually though… food would not be a bad idea and so while Egon was still lost in love-drunk slumber, Riley was finally able to escape his arms for a quick shower, and a quick stop to Stormy Oaks… for all the right reasons.

First was a stop to Lady Catherine’s orphanage to finally pick up a special treasure: Mother’s cookbook. Secondly, to Sean McEnrow, the town butcher, for some Scottish-style bacon. Surprised as to the reason why the Brave One made a visit, he also helped in getting her the rest of what she needed. Once Riley got everything together, she was back in the kitchen…

“Mumma” she whispered as she began preparing the porridge, “I hope t'God I do y'proud.”

Egon wiggled his nose, smelling food being prepared. Blinking his eyes open, he noticed that Riley was not in bed… but he could still feel her. And that wasn’t a bad thing.

…on the other hand, the scratches on his back from her, were definitely not a bad thing either!

Slowly he got up, got out of bed, and got dressed. Once in the kitchen, he saw the table already fixed with a bowl of yogurt topped with muesli and raspberries, a kettle of hot tea, and a pitcher of orange juice. Riley placed a plate of homemade oatcakes and raspberry jam, when she turned to see Egon. “Good morning, love” she greeted with a grin. “Hungry?”

“R-Riley” Egon whispered in awe. She looked adorable in his shirt and shorts. And making breakfast. “I mean–yes–I mean… good morning, my love” he then replied, smiling.

“Porridge and toast will be ready in a moment” she said as Egon sat down to eat the yogurt and oatcakes. “I’ll be joining you in trite.”

“Well this is certainly a different kind of breakfast” Egon remarked with a smile after taking a nibble of oatcake. “And this is delicious!!”

“I’m glad y'like it” she replied, smiling lovingly as she finished the porridge and toast, and set them on the table. “Welcome to a traditional Scottish breakfast.”

“Oh really?” Egon asked, looking up at her.

“Yep” she replied with a grin. “Now, how’d y'like your egg?”

Egon thought for a moment. “Scrambled, please!” he then answered.

“Y'got it, love!” she said, before getting to work broiling a tomato sliced in half in the oven. Egon watched as she took out a tray of tattie–potato–scones from the oven and placed that on the counter, then went to scramble an egg on a pan. While that was going, she cooked in another pan a couple of slices of Scottish-style bacon. Once those and the eggs were done, they were placed on a plate and Riley used that same pan to sautée some mushrooms.

Egon meanwhile had finished the yogurt, and started on the porridge and toast. And before he knew it, Riley placed a full hot plate before him: half a tomato, broiled and topped with cheese. A tattie scone, a couple of slices of bacon, the scrambled egg, and some sautéed mushrooms. The Gravekeeper smiled as he was stunned at all the food that was prepared, as she herself prepared an egg sunny side up, and placed that on her plate with the tomato, scone, bacon and mushrooms.

“…that, is a lot of food, my dear” the Ghostbuster remarked as she sat down across from him at the table. “But it’s all sorts of delicious!”

“Thank you, darling” she replied with a smile as she started on her toast and porridge. “This is actually the first time I’ve made a traditional breakfast. And that’s not the whole of it.” She took a nibble of bacon before adding, “I am not very fond of black pudding t'be honest.”

Egon chuckled, finishing the porridge and starting on the hot plate. “Well still, it’s all delicious, Riley. I’m humbled… and honored. My compliments to whoever gave you the recipe.”

Riley looked up at him, smiling still as she finished the porridge and toast. “It’s actually from m'Mother’s cookbook.” The smile turned into a grin. “And she’d be proud o'me for doin’ this.”

“I’m certainly proud of you for making the effort” Egon said, pouring her a cup of hot tea. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you busily cooking food. I mean I remember the time you made me some bridies with vegetables but I’ve never seen you actually in action.”

“Thank you” she said as he poured the tea. “And yeah… I mean, you’re the only person I’ve actually cooked for, Egon…”

“…ah, right” he replied softly, “l forgot you live alone and…“

"I mean, I’ve got the animals and all but, it’s… something I’ve gotten used to” she answered inbetween bites of cheese tomato on toast. “But I finally got around to getting Mumma’s cookbook because I felt that it was time at last to pick up another piece of my younger years. Especially since I now have someone to cook for, and mayhaps teach a little lesson or two.” She gave him a wink.

Egon smiled lovingly as they continued eating their breakfast. “I am both humbled and honored, my love” he said as he got up and went to sit next to her and finish his breakfast. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome” she replied, smiling at him. “Thank you.”

He tilted his head curiously. “For…?”

“For showing me that it’s okay to feel” she said quietly.

Egon had to fight back a tear or two at the response, and given all she had endured in the past before him, it was almost no wonder. The two finished their breakfast and sat in comfortable silence for a little while. Egon then gave Riley a knowing smile. “How’s the back of your neck?” he asked.

“Still wonderfully sore” Riley replied with a smirk. “How’s your shoulder?”

“Well… let’s just say I’ll be feeling those for a good while” he answered, chuckling as he leaned over to kiss her cheek.

Riley chuckled as well. “I’m sure we both will, darling” she replied as he kissed her. She then rested her head on his shoulder as he wrapped an arm around her, and the two enjoyed the comfortable silence that only a breakfast together could bring…

[st-riley-the-brave]

--Egon, look up already... Happy Free Comic Book Day, everyone.

[st-riley-the-brave]

((From the Ghost+Grave playlist on Spotify. I cannot stop listening to this song. Now I don't know about you folks but I feel like this is a song Egon could sing or send to Riley. I could be wrong, you know. Happy Tune'age Tuesday, StormLights.))