#can i say mystrade

[stellacartography]

Thanks to @lisbeth-kk for tagging me.

Fic Writer's Meme

How many works do you have on ao3?

I have 28! 18 in Sherlock, 6 in Star Trek: Voyager, and 4 Good Omens.

What’s your total word count?

182,614, a majority of which is Kinesis, but as a person who has always struggled with completing things, the 100,000+ words that aren't Kinesis are a real victory in my head.

What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

Kinesis (Mystrade), The Interrogation of Anthony Crowley, Witch (Ineffable husbands co-written with @mevima), Avast Ye Merry Gentlemen (Johnlock Christmas), The Bold and the Bruised (Mystrade 360MG), Atonement (Janeway/Chakotay post-series reconciliation).

Do you respond to comments? Why/why not?

Absolutely! I love comments. If I haven't responded to a comment it's only because life has been eating my brain and I will get to it once I've recovered.

What's the fic you've written with the angstiest ending?

Probably All the Time it Takes to Wait, which is titled after a song I played obsessively at the time while I was dreaming up the scenario of Chakotay actually getting to have feelings about the whole Fair Haven disaster. Nothing is resolved but they have it out. The song is angsty and so is the fic.

What's the fic you've written with the happiest ending?

It's gotta be Kinesis. Not to overhype, but the ending is pretty satisfying and joyful.

Do you write crossovers?

I have the outline of a Sherlock/Star Trek crossover in my WIP pile.

Have you ever received hate on a fic?

No, but I can't wait. Bring it on, internet. I love an argument. I love to analyze the fears and insecurities of people who start fights on the internet over free content lovingly created and bravely posted. I am unhinged and ruthless.

Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

Hell yes. Smut has been an essential part of my recovery from religion, both the reading and writing of. Smut is so revealing of a character's motivations, their vulnerabilitites, their desires. I think it's a marvellous thing.

Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not to my knowledge. If so, I'd rather not know.

Have you ever had a fic translated?

No.

Have you ever co-written a fic before?

Yes, the aforementioned The Interrogation of Anthony Crowley, Witch was so much fun to write with @mevima. It was way outside my comfort zone, kinkier and darker than anything else I've written.

What's your all-time favourite ship?

Johnlock and Mystrade are forever duking it out in my head. I also love Ed and Stede's speedrun enemies-to-besties-to-lovers dynamic in OFMD.

What's a WIP that you want to finish but don't think you ever will?

Never say never, right? I have another long one that could be a Good Omens AU set in Toronto in the early 90s. Because it's last on my list of long fics, I don't know when I'm going to get to it. Also all the garbage behaviour of a certain writer/creator has really sapped my enthusiasm for writing in the fandom right now. I had a thought to turn it into an OFMD fic but I'm not sure if or when I'll get around to it.

What are your writing strengths?

Dialogue is my friend. If I get stuck in a scene, I just make the characters talk and it helps me move on. Comes from a background in writing plays.

What are your writing weaknesses?

Endings! Spare me from having to finish anything. I get burnt out and distracted easily but I'm learning to manage it. I look forward to the times when the story really flows, but since most days are not like that, it's about finding ways to write the next 5, 10, 500 words.

What are your thoughts on writing dialogue in other languages in a fic?

Like so many things, I don't think there should be hard and fast rules about what writers can and cannot do. For me, I'd be inclined to check with a native speaker if I can find one, but keeping in mind that this is not a professional venture, I think foreign dialogue in fic is a "do your best and be forgiving" venture.

That said, if a writer chooses not to get a native speaker to weigh in on their usage and they get comments like "Hey you bum. Don't use google translate for this!" we have to be willing to take our lumps and seize the opportunity: "My hero! Will you look at the rest of my dialogue for me?" Fandom is about connection building.

What was the first fandom you wrote for?

My first creative writing project in first grade was an origin story for a talking boot puppet in a horrifying Canadian children's program called Readalong. But I had no idea what a fanfic was at the time.

My first intentional fanfic might have been an unpublished Sailor Moon or Mulder/Scully fic that may live on in a hard drive somewhere.

First fic on AO3 is actually poetry called Not a Romance about what Kathryn Janeway was thinking after the episode Resolutions.

What's a fandom/ship you haven't written for yet but want to?

Our Flag Means Death. Probably Ed/Stede but there are so many great characters, it might be hard to choose.

What's your favourite fic you've written?

Kinesis. It's the fic I've always wanted to write. It has some of my favourite vibes. And I derived great joy from firing Mycroft Holmes.

Tagging @hubblegleeflower @may-shepard @the-toad-in-your-piano @copperplatebeech @blogstandbygo @fearlessdiva930 @cirquedereve @antheiasilva if you feel like answering and haven't already been tagged. I tag anyone who sees this and wants to answer (please @ me in your response and I will reblog).

If you see this and you're more of a reader, tag your favourite writers in a reblog or the notes. Seriously, this goes for anything. If you tag me on your original posts, I will gladly reblog and hype your content.

[inevitably-johnlocked]

Do you have a list of Lestrade POV or Mycroft POV fics? I love reading what others think about these two idiots in love.

Hi Lovely!!

AHHH Okay I DIDN'T have a specific list, so I've gone through my bookmarks I've tagged as such with either POV, but I KNOW I've missed a lot of fics... I needed a list for this weekend so... VOILA! Sorry it's so rushed, and I will forewarn many of the links are from FFNet 💜🖤

If ANYONE has a Johnlock fic that that they would love to add to the list that I obviously missed, please do add them below!!!! I would greatly appreciate it!

MYCROFT or LESTRADE POV JOHNLOCK

See also: Mystrade Fics (MFLs)

The Most Awful Thing by whitchry9 (K+, 1,072 w., Ch 1 || Hurt/Comfort, Holmes Brothers, Seizures) – When Mycroft witnesses Sherlock having a seizure, he is at a complete loss as to what he should do. Thankfully, John is there.

Yorkshire Gold by Tammany Tiger (K, 1,467 w., 1 Ch. || Friendship, Holmes Brothers, Hurt/Comfort, Mild Angst, Open Ending, Grief, Implied Bondlock) – Mycroft may not mourn Sherlock's death-but even if he knows his brother lives, he's not without his own grief. It ain't easy being The British Government. But at least he's got good help. Set between the Fall and the Return.

It Was All Right There In Front of Him (A Five Times Plus One Story) by bees_stories (T, 3,191 w., 1 Ch. || 5+1, Protective Idiots, Grooming, Bed Sharing, Lestrade POV) – DI Greg Lestrade is a good detective. But sometimes he doesn’t trust the evidence in front of him, until there’s a compelling reason to do so.

The Warehouse Chat by AllesandraQuartermaine (K, 3,611 w., 1 Ch. || Meddling Mycroft, Canon-Compliant, Drama / Family) – When Mycroft Holmes learns about the presence of John Watson in his brother's life, he does what any brother who worries would do. He learns what he can and then abducts Doctor John Watson for a chat in a warehouse. Set in A Study In Pink.

This is my friend, John Watson by aaronisgay (T, 3,691 w., 5 Ch. || Established Relationship, Secret Relationship, Yard Finds Out) – Lestrade has known Sherlock for over three years, yet in that time barely learned anything about the man. Then one day, Sherlock walks onto the crime scene with a short army doctor in tow. As time goes on, Lestrade wonders why neither of them ever go on dates...could this mean something? Otherwise where Sherlock is married and the Yard doesn't even notice.

When Your Belly's in the Trench by Morgan_Stuart (T, 4,743 w., 1 Ch. || PTSD, Character Study, Rescue, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Implied Torture, Trauma, Danger, Drama, Kidnapping/Captivity) – The next time that door opens, John Watson will kill the person on the other side.

Study in Mycroft by chappysmom (K+, 4,929 w., 1 Ch. || Character Study, Big Brother Mycroft, Mycroft POV, Nosy Mycroft, Holmes Brothers) – A look at Mycroft's thoughts and actions during a Study in Pink.

The Refining Fire by Arwen Jade Kenobi (T, 5,451 w., 1 Ch. || Post-TGG AU, Angst, Friendship, Alternating POV (Lestrade, Mycroft, Sherlock), Worried Sherlock, Hospital Recovery) – Fire can burn things to ashes, but it can also burn things together.

Our Sudden and Strange Return by Arwen Jade Kenobi (T, 10,314 w., 1 Ch. || Post-TRF, Friendship) – One year, eight months, and an odd number of days after the alleged fatal fall Mycroft gets a message from Sherlock saying that he's back.

Sympathy for the Devil and Mycroft Holmes by scifigrl47 (T, 18,535 w., 2 Ch. || Family, Canon-Compliant, Meddling Mycroft, Big Brother Mycroft) – Mycroft has always protected his younger brother, but there are some things he just can't control. Sherlock's relationship with John Watson is one of them. Set during the first two seasons of Sherlock.

Jack In The Box by Liketheriver (T, 30,785 w., 1 Ch. || Romance, Case Fic, H/C, Lestrade First POV) – John's been kidnapped, Mycroft has rules, and Lestrade has to do his best to keep up with Sherlock as they deal with a returning foe. Lestrade POV as he and Sherlock work to find John, even though that's the last thing John seems to want. Part 2 of Bedtime Universe

[mimisempai]

Even one night is too much

Summary

Greg is away for the weekend due to work commitments, and Mycroft realises how long even a single night of absence can be.

Notes

Mystrade Monday  4.0  #2 - “It’s just for one night.”

@mystradepromptsandscenarios

On AO3

654 words - Rating G

"It's just for one night."

That's what Greg had said when he'd told him he had to leave for a weekend of security training.

While Greg had apologized that it was a weekend, that it would somehow curtail the rare moments they could have together, Mycroft had casually told him not to feel guilty, that he'd take the time for himself.

That was before he realized how quiet the apartment would be without Greg, and how empty everything would seem to him. 

Several times Mycroft had reached for his phone to send Greg a message, but he didn't want to bother him and especially didn't want to seem needy. 

Most of the time it was he who was absent and now that the roles were reversed he was beginning to understand what that meant and wondered if Greg felt the same way every time Mycroft was away, especially since most of the time Greg didn't know when Mycroft would be back or even where he was.

Mycroft was a mess although Greg was gone for such a short time, so how could Greg put up with it again and again? He realized once again how lucky he was to have such an understanding lover as Greg and missed him even more. He couldn't wait for him to come home.

The worst part had been the night. 

The empty bed on the other side.

His hand meeting a cold empty space next to him instead of Greg's warmth every time he woke up.

Then came the silence in the morning.

Instead of the incessant chatter of his lover. Greg's running commentary as he read the paper, while Mycroft struggled to shake off the fog of sleep after his second cup of coffee. He missed that too.

Mycroft was even ready to hear him comment on the latest football play.

Anything but silence.

He had lingered all day, every part of the apartment a reminder of Greg's absence, and after an endless afternoon he was putting the finishing touches on dinner, impatiently awaiting his lover's return.

Mycroft's heart skipped a beat as he heard the familiar sound of the key turning in the lock.

He took a quick step towards the entrance, almost running - propriety be damned, he had missed his lover and didn't feel like hiding it.

When he arrived, Greg was taking off his shoes and looking up at him, saying with a smile, "I'm home."

Mycroft didn't answer. He just stepped forward and, unusually for him, listening only to his emotions, wrapped his arms around Greg and, holding him close, whispered in a voice hoarse with emotion, "Welcome home, Greg. I've missed you."

Greg, at first a little surprised that Mycroft was so demonstrative, didn't move immediately before wrapping his arms around his lover and returning the embrace.

Then, pressed tightly against Mycroft's chest, he replied in a hushed voice, "It's good to be home. I missed you too."

Mycroft didn't seem to want to let go, so Greg made him loosen his embrace a little, stepping back to get a better look at his lover's face and asked in a slightly concerned tone, "Are you all right?"

Mycroft nodded and placed his hand on Greg's cheek, stroking his lips with his thumb before saying softly, "I just missed you."

Greg replied with a mischievous twinkle in his eye, "I should go away more often if I'm welcomed like this."

Mycroft murmured, "You..." then leaned in to capture the laughing lips in a deep, lingering kiss.

When they pulled away to catch their breath, Greg's stomach began to rumble, causing Mycroft to chuckle softly. 

"Good thing I made dinner. Come on, let's fill you up."

"I really should get away more often."

"Greg, you little..."

Greg laughed at his lover's scolding expression before following him into the kitchen where they finished preparing the meal in the joy and happiness of being together again.

_________

Still not beta'd

Still not my native language

Still hoping you'll enjoy this story  🥰

Still thanking you for bearing with me 😝

Mystrade mondays 4.0 : here

Mystrade masterlist here

[writingfanficsfan]

Mystrade: Well. That happened.

Soprompt always has to coolest lines to start with.

-------------------------

“Well. That happened.” 

“That’s all you can say to this?!” 

“I-” 

“You kissed me and all you can say it, well, that happened?!” 

“Calm down Myc.”

“I am calm!” 

“Clearly. Very calm indeed. Breathe, Darling. You’re turning purple.” 

“I am not turning purple! And don’t call me Myc! "

“Okay, Darling. I won’t.” 

“Don’t call me Darling! And don’t look at me like that!” 

“Like what, Mycroft?” 

“Like that! Don’t smile like that! It- it makes me forget how to think.” 

“You do too much thinking anyway. Come here.” 

“I- Gregory, what-” 

“Relax, Mycroft. Just come here and sit down.” 

“You- You kissed me.” 

“That I did.” 

“Why? And stop looking so damn smug!” 

“Why did I kiss you? Do you really need to ask me that?” 

“I am asking, aren’t I?” 

“Mycroft. I kissed you because I’ve been wanting to for a long, long time. Tonight seemed like a good moment. The magic of a new year and all that crap. Figure I’d start it on a positive note.” 

“You- You’re not making any sense.” 

“Mycroft. Can you just breathe for a second and stop panicking? If I wasn’t a confident bloke I would almost be insulted by your reaction.” 

“I’m not- I’m not trying to insult you.” 

“It just comes naturally to you?” 

“Shut up, Lestrade! This isn’t funny.” 

“Okay. So. I take it you didn’t like being kissed by me?” 

“Gregory, I-”

“It’s okay, Mycroft. It would have been a real miracle. You wanting me like that.” 

“Like that?” 

“In a romantic way. Maybe I did drink too many beers? Thinking a posh, handsome bloke like you would-” 

“I’m not handsome.” 

“You are. You just don’t realise it, Darling.” 

“I- I liked it. Being kissed by you. I just panicked.” 

“Really? I had no idea.” 

“Stop smirking!” 

“Oi! Don’t go! Come back here. I’m sorry, Mycroft. Come back here and let’s talk about this, okay?” 

“I hardly can find the right words. I- You-” 

“You know, I think this is the first time I’ve ever seen you speechless, Mycroft.” 

“Why did you panic?” 

“Because you kissed me, Gregory! Barely anyone has kissed me before and none of those men were as gorgeous as you! What did you think would happen?!” 

“I don’t know? You kissing me back? Throwing me on the sofa to ravish me?” 

“Gregory!” 

“I man can fantasize. And you do look very pretty when you blush, Darling.” 

“I’m not p-”

“Finish that sentence and I will punch you.” 

“Punch me?!” 

“Gently, on the shoulder.”

“You-” 

“Stop insulting yourself, Mycroft. I’ll have you know I have excellent taste in men.” 

“Didn’t you have a crush on Andrew when-”

“That is ancient history. Don’t mention him now, please. Besides, you’re far more gorgeous than him. And kinder.” 

“Okay. Now it’s proven that you’ve had too much to drink!” 

“Oh, shut up! You’re not as cold and bad arse as you claim to be. I know you. I see who you really are.” 

“Do you?” 

“You’re the smartest person I’ve ever met but when it comes to yourself you’re basically clueless. Not only are you a genius, you’re also gorgeous as fuck and you care. You do care, don’t shake your head at me.” 

“You care so deeply that it terrifies you.” 

“Gregory. I don’t want-” 

“I think you’re an amazing person, Mycroft. Not just because of how smart you are. There is so much more to you than only your brain. It makes me sad, you not realising that.” 

“No one has ever- That’s- Thank you.” 

“You’re welcome, Gorgeous. Can I kiss you again?” 

“Now you’re asking me?” 

“Better late than never, right?” 

“I suppose so. But Gregory-” 

“Yes or no, Darling? Stop overthinking.” 

“Y- Yes.”

@chained-to-the-mirror @lavenderandvanilla

[mystradepromptsandscenarios]

Mystrade Monday Prompt #101

For July 29, 2024

Character A: I don’t dance. Character B: I say you can.

The game is to write a flash fic this weekend and post it here (or with a link to the fic on AO3) on Monday with the hashtag Mystrade Monday.

Flash fiction is a complete story that is less than 1,000 words. 360mg is complete fic of 360 words with the last two beginning with “M” and “G” in any order. Please spread the word.

Hot tip: if you tag @mystradepromptsandscenarios , we’ll reblog it.

Don’t forget to add your fic to the Mystrade Monday Collection on AO3.

[petite-madame]

I love your art so much! There's some characters I'm not interested in until I see your gorgeous work and then it's like a switch just flips in my brain. You have this power! Don't abuse it lol Kidding! You should go crazy with it and make us all crazy in consequence! I will happily follow whatever new pairings you draw! Thank you for sharing with us! I'm off to discover whether there's Mystrade fanfiction now~

Hi anon ^^

Please! Thank YOU so much for your message and for the great feedback about my art, it's very kind of you. ❤

There's some characters I'm not interested in until I see your gorgeous work and then it's like a switch just flips in my brain.

That's such an amazing compliment. 😍 It's like saying, "I hate tomatoes but this tomato soup you cooked is delicious, can I have another plate please?" ❤

But yes, art have this power, I guess! 😁 I started to ship Destiel because of Artmetica's fan art. I had a look at the artworks, then I read a couple of fics and then…oh well, you know how it is!

"Just one fic..." and then it's the inevitable fall into fandom madness...

Some people told me it was the same thing for them thanks to my Steve/Bucky or Steve/Tony art. Good! 😁 It makes me happy if my art can change your mind on a ship. The more, the merrier, welcome to this side of the fandom. 😆

You have this power! Don't abuse it

Don't worry, I don't: with great powers comes great responsibilities.🤓

I will happily follow whatever new pairings you draw!

So far, I already draw a lot of stuff, Stucky, Stony, Destiel, Johnlock, Ironstrange, Mystrade…I have no idea what will come next. Life is full of surprises. 🤓 I rewatched The Hobbit Trilogy last week so, who knows, Bilbo/Thorin may come next 🤣

I'm off to discover whether there's Mystrade fanfiction now~

May I recommend you the ones by Mottlemoth on A03 ? However, you'll need to be logged in to read the fics or else, they won't appear on their page. I hope you will enjoy their stories as much as I did, it's really a great author. 💗

Thanks again and have a great day. 💗

[themirokai]

After all the lead up... it's here! Three years after posting the last story in my Mystrade spy series, His Professional Capacity, I'm back with a new installment.

The Bell Bird - Chapter 1

When a known assassin comes to London, Mycroft brings Greg along for some spying.

Tags: Assassins, Spies, Mycroft's job, BAMF Mycroft Holmes, Mycroft's work kids, Mycroft is a softie

2,744 words

If you just want to know the basics of the world and the characters before jumping in to this story, I recommend reading Protégé. If you want to get all the references, start with What He Does and read through the series from there. Each post has the next one linked at the bottom, or you can read them all on AO3.

The first chapter contains spoilers for the Count of Monte Cristo. If you haven't read that and plan to, I recommend skipping from where the characters start talking about it to the section break.

This story is completely written and is just being edited at this point. I anticipate posting a new chapter every Sunday, but we'll see.

Read it below or on AO3.

~*~

“I’ll see you for lunch.” The words were murmured against Greg’s cheek, followed by a soft kiss. Greg woke just enough to grunt an “Uh-huh” in response before sinking back into his pre-dawn sleep. 

“Hey, boss!” Sally called from the other side of the crime scene they were studying. Greg looked up at her, and she jutted her chin towards the street. “That’s for you, innit?” 

Greg followed her gaze to the sleek black sedan waiting by the kerb. He swore. It wasn’t that he had forgotten that he had agreed to meet Mycroft at his office for lunch, he had just lost track of the time. “Sally, is there any way you could—” 

“Yeah, boss.” She grinned. “I’ve got it. Just try not to look too dishevelled when you come back, alright?” 

Greg rolled his eyes. It had been one time in the early days when he and Mycroft could hardly keep their hands off each other, that he had pulled himself out of a black sedan looking slightly worse for wear. They had been through a lot since then: a hostage situation, the following recovery, an assassination attempt—and, of course, they had now lived together for well over a year. But Sally was covering for him, so he took the teasing without protesting that his days of acting like a horny teenager were behind him. 

“Thanks, Sarge!” he called as he stood and dusted a few stray blades of grass off the knees of his trousers, then trotted over to the car. He opened the front passenger door and smiled at the driver. “Hey, Lucy.” 

“Hey yourself,” Lucy replied, unable to suppress her grin even though she was annoyed. “Get in. You’re late. You could have let me know you wouldn’t be at the Met.” 

Lucy Simmons and Mycroft had been junior agents together at the beginning of their careers. But just as Mycroft’s star was starting to rise, there had been an accident. Mycroft hadn’t given Greg details except to say that an innocent person had died as a result of Lucy’s actions. Reading between the lines of what Mycroft had felt he could say, Greg concluded that the incident had broken Lucy’s spirit and she had left the Service.

Later, when Mycroft needed a driver, he had found Lucy and asked her to come work for him. He had told her that he wanted someone who had intelligence experience and the proper security clearance, but didn’t have ambitions within the Service. Greg privately suspected that Mycroft had also wanted to make sure Lucy had a stable job with a good paycheck. 

“Sorry,” Greg winced. “New murder.” He pulled out his mobile to text Mycroft. Running late, in car now. Very distracting murder, sorry. Still good for lunch? 

“No novel?” Greg asked Lucy, looking around for the paperback she kept on hand for the times between driving Mycroft places. Greg liked Lucy a lot, but she was tight-lipped about anything personal, so books always fuelled their conversation when it was just the two of them in the car. 

Lucy sighed and touched the tight bun in her greying hair. “Glove box. Don’t poke fun.” 

Greg’s mobile pinged with Mycroft’s reply. I would still like you to come, but we will be a bit more rushed than I had intended.

Greg sighed as he texted back. Sorry. Love you.

“You reading a bodice-ripper?” Greg put his mobile away and opened the glove box to pull out a thick tome. “Count of Monte Cristo? Again, Lucy? How many times have you read this book?” 

“I said not to poke fun!” 

“I’m not poking fun. I am asking how many times you’ve read it.” He waved the book at her.

“It is the perfect book!” she said defensively. “It has pirates and buried treasure and star-crossed lovers and fighting and poison and wildly complicated revenge plots!”

“And all of the female characters are ridiculous one-dimensional parodies,” Greg said, depositing the book back in the glove box. 

“Ok, Mr. Enlightened Feminist, most of the male characters are that too.”

“And a child gets murdered and the accessory to murder completely gets away with it!”

“Listen, copper, it was a bratty child and an accident, and the accessory felt bad.”

“Yeah, he felt bad as he went off to live his life of luxury with his child bride who literally saw him as a father figure!” 

“There are well over a thousand pages of good stuff before that slightly questionable ending.”

“Uh huh. And how many times have you read those thousand pages of good stuff?”

“A few,” she admitted. “But I average two books a week, the vast majority of which are new to me, so I can have some literary comfort food sometimes.”

“Alright, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t tease. Oh! I started reading this new space opera a few days ago; it’s incredible.”  

Greg exited the lift to Anthea’s slightly disapproving gaze. “They’re waiting for you,” she said by way of greeting. 

“They?” Greg frowned and she waved him into the office. 

“Sir, there’s no reason to do it this way!” The thick Scottish accent met Greg’s ears the moment he opened the sound-proofed door. 

“The reason to do it this way, Mr. Romer, is that I say we are doing it this way, and that is sufficient.” Mycroft’s tone was calm and definitive. 

Greg entered to see Mycroft seated behind his large mahogany desk with Agent Peter Romer pacing in front and Agent Fatima Ahmad lounging in one of the chairs. Romer’s hair was short and blonde, a look Greg hadn’t seen on him before, but it worked, particularly with the slim-fit light grey suit the young agent was sporting.

Greg assumed that Ahmad had clothing other than jeans and a leather jacket, but he had yet to see it. She leaned her head against the back of the chair, letting her long black braid hang down behind, the picture of languid grace. 

They all looked up as Greg stepped into the room. 

“Oh good,” Romer said, smirking. “Silver Fox made it after all.” 

Mycroft’s smile was warm but a little strained. “Gregory. I had hoped we would have time to eat before Romer and Ahmad got here, but—” 

Greg grimaced as he crossed the plush carpet. “Yeah, sorry, love. Got sidetracked by a new murder.” Greg quickly decided that he didn’t mind kissing Mycroft in front of the others. After all, they had both worked Mycroft’s security detail: it was nothing they hadn’t seen before. Still, he settled for a chaste kiss on the cheek before taking the chair beside Ahmad’s. “So, is this a group lunch?”

“No, Gregory,” Mycroft said, “we need to speak with you about a professional matter.”

 “Oh, no,” Greg groaned. “My latest vic was a spy?”

“No, no. Nothing to do with any of your cases. One of Ahmad’s assignments actually.” 

Greg looked at the woman with interest as she pulled herself up in her chair. 

“There is a very skilled assassin whom I have tracked for a number of years called the Bell Bird,” Ahmad said, cracking her knuckles. “She works for hire and is not affiliated with any government or organisation as far as I’ve been able to tell. She’s American, and her cover is that she is an opera singer.”

“It’s not just a cover,” Mycroft interjected. “She’s a virtuosic soprano. A sought-after recitalist who has recorded several albums that have sold very well.”

“Her career as a singer, legitimate though it may be,” Ahmad acknowledged, “has provided cover for her extralegal activities. She has a performance in a city, and while she’s there someone turns up dead. It’s never anyone who has a link to her, but we believe that she sometimes makes contact with her clients at her performances. I’ve been able to link her to ten murders in the five years I’ve been tracking her.” 

Greg’s jaw dropped. “Ten murders? And you haven’t brought her in?” 

“She has never worked in the United Kingdom,” Mycroft said. “And her activities have not… conflicted with our interests to this point.” 

“Yeah, but ten murders is ten murders!” 

“We are not international police, Gregory. I could no more arrest her for a murder that happened in Paris or Singapore than you could.” 

“Then why follow her?” 

“Because we want to know what someone like that is up to,” Romer put in from where he leaned against the desk, hands in the pockets of his trousers. 

“And because by following her, we now know that she is coming to the United Kingdom,” Mycroft said. “To London, in fact.” 

Greg’s eyes widened. “Why now?” 

“We don’t know, but we intend to find out.” Mycroft leaned forward over his desk. 

Greg looked between the three of them. “Are… you planning to have me investigate the murder she does here?” 

Romer snorted. “That’s a more reasonable guess than the actual plan.” 

“We don’t actually know if she’s planning a murder here.” Mycroft’s glare removed the smirk from Romer’s face. “The fact that she’s never worked here, despite being a native speaker of the language – well, the American version of the language – is notable. She does have singing engagements that seem to be unconnected to her murder-for-hire work, and it is entirely possible that she is coming for one of those.” 

The looks on Ahmad’s and Romer’s faces clearly showed what they thought of that possibility. 

“Next week she will be performing at an invite-only fundraiser for the arts education charity I support, and I have received an invitation,” Mycroft continued. “I shall be attending, and I would like you to accompany me, Gregory.” 

“Whoa, whoa, whoa. You want to go hear a murderer sing? Isn’t that what you have this lot for?” Greg waved a hand at Romer and Ahmad. “And, I don’t know, all of your other field agents?” 

“Romer and Ahmad have both secured places on the catering staff for the event, and Wilkinson and Yang will at least be nearby as well,” Mycroft said, referring to the two agents who were currently on his security detail. “If the prospect alarms you, Gregory, I can attend alone—” 

“I’m not alarmed about me attending, Mycroft, I’m alarmed about you attending!” Greg turned to Romer. “How many people are trying to kill him?”

“More than you have clearance to know about,” the young man replied. 

“And you want to go cosy up to an international assassin?” Greg asked Mycroft.

“Don’t be dramatic, Gregory, there will be no ‘cosying up.’ I want to use an easy opportunity to see what the woman is up to, and who she meets there. By doing so, we may be able to prevent a murder. I was hoping that you would agree to join me to add your considerable observational skill to the operation, as well as to be on hand if something goes awry.” 

Romer jumped in before Greg could reply. “A role that – if you insist on attending – could easily be played by a trained field agent, sir.” 

“Yes, Romer,” Mycroft’s tone contained a hint of irritation, “but as we have discussed, I will be using no more than my standard cover for this event, as the invitation was issued to me. Gregory is my partner and I have no desire to complicate things by bringing another individual to an event we would be expected to attend as a couple.” 

“Sir, you were ‘married’ to Agent Forrester for a year in Bilbao,” Romer protested, doing the air quotes. 

Mycroft narrowed his eyes. “I’ve never talked to you about that operation. Are they teaching that in training now?” He sighed at Romer’s nod. “Christ, I feel old.” He shook his head. “Regardless, the fact that a female colleague and I posed as a married couple during an extended overseas operation a number of years ago has no bearing on this situation. Mycroft Holmes of the Department for Transport received an invitation to attend with a guest and I shall be attending. I fail to understand why you are trying to overcomplicate this, Romer.” 

“And I fail to understand why you two,” Greg levelled looks at Ahmad and Romer, “aren’t kicking up more of a fuss about him attending at all.” 

“She doesn’t kill at her performances,” Ahmad said simply. “It would ruin her excellent cover. It’s much more likely that she’s going to make contact with her client there. The odds are quite high that Mr. Holmes will be perfectly safe, and they only improve if you’re aware of the situation and are on your toes and maybe armed. Romer’s just being stroppy because he never got over the situation with the Russians, and Mr. Holmes sending him to the Continent for four months didn’t help like it was intended to.” 

“Oi!” Romer protested.  

Plus,” Ahmad ignored Romer and looked Mycroft right in the eye, “the boss has been behind that desk since Syria, and he gets tetchy when it’s been this long since his last op.” 

Mycroft rolled his eyes. “Get out, both of you. Romer, I want the revision of your Oslo report in an hour. Ahmad, I’m sure you have something to do that does not involve insubordination and antagonising your colleagues.” 

Both agents gave a “yes, sir,” before leaving. 

“Syria,” Greg said quietly, once the door had shut behind them. Mycroft’s face became immediately inscrutable. “You’ve never said where…” Greg trailed off, waited for some kind of reaction or response, but Mycroft just watched him in silence. It had been eighteen months since Mycroft had been taken hostage. Eighteen months since he had been beaten, choked, and forced to watch his team be hurt. They only talked about it in the most abstract terms, and usually only after Mycroft woke screaming from nightmares, when Greg would hold him and stroke his hair and his back until the shaking stopped. 

Greg cleared his throat. “Was she not supposed to say that? Is my clearance not high enough to know where you were?” 

It was a strange thing, seeing emotion return to his partner’s face. Fatigue, sadness, a little fear. “It is now,” Mycroft murmured, looking away from him, “since I had it raised last year. I can’t give you details but the location is permitted. I just…” 

Greg stood and rounded the desk, half perching beside Mycroft and cupping his cheek in his hand, turning his face up. “It’s alright, darling. We don’t need to talk about it.” Greg leaned down for a kiss, warm and gentle. 

When they broke apart Mycroft smiled up at him and squeezed his thigh. “Thank you, Gregory,” he whispered. 

Greg kissed his forehead again before sitting back with a slightly mischievous smile. “So you’ve been tetchy with the kids lately?” 

Mycroft snorted in surprised amusement, but then sighed. “I suppose I get a bit… nitpicky. When I haven’t been directly involved in an operation for a while.” He rubbed his forehead. “A slight tendency towards more criticism than is strictly necessary with my subordinates.”

“You? Nitpicky? I can’t even imagine!” Greg grinned. 

Mycroft shot him a slightly sour look. “Be that as it may, while it is certainly possible to do my job in a purely supervisory capacity, and that is how my predecessor did it, I believe a more hands-on approach leads to better results. And it keeps me from going mad.” 

Greg bit his lower lip and chuckled. “Alright, so to maintain your sanity and to keep your agents from finding other employment, we’re going to spy on an international assassin who is singing a charity concert?” 

Mycroft paused to consider for a moment. “That’s about the shape of it, yes.”  

“When’s this happening? Do I get any spy training first?” 

“The concert is next week and no, you don’t need any special training beyond your already considerable detective skills. As Ahmad said, we just want you to be aware of the situation and on your guard. The spying, as it were, is well in hand.” 

“So I’ll get to observe you in the field? One of the best?” 

Mycroft raised one eyebrow. “There is no ‘one of,’ Gregory.”

“Hah!” Greg laughed. “Not bothering with modesty today, darling?” 

Mycroft smirked. “There is little less attractive than false modesty, my love.” 

Greg snorted and shook his head. “Ridiculous how hot I find it when you’re being an arrogant twit.” He leaned in for another kiss, this one neither chaste nor gentle. 

~*~

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this, I appreciate if you let me know!

Chapter 2 is up now.

[johannadc]

Li'l Mystrade Celebrates Pride

"My, sorry to disturb you, and I know you're not much for showy decoration..."

"Do not worry, Gregory, my brother dear has already interrupted my afternoon."

"Boooooooooored."

"I thought you, as a senior official..."

"Minor official, my dear."

"Sure, whatever you say. Anyway, I thought you displaying a pride flag would send an important message."

"Excellent idea. I'll post it here."

"Glad to know you're ok with us being out."

"Oh, I can deduce where this is going. I'm off out."

"Thanks, darlin'." (smooch)

"Hang on a mo', did you agree to put up a pride flag just to get rid of Sherlock?"

"At least the couch is ours now."

"Cuddles?"

"Cuddles."

[jawnscoffee]

☕️ holmes-tastic introduction ☕️

hii!! i'm jawn aaand...this is my introduction post. i go by she/her and am mostly here because of @topsyturvy-turtely's great influence :D

you can find me on wattpad and ao3 under the name jawnscoffee because i love jawn and coffee 😎

imma just copy most of my bio from wattpad so here are a few more things to say about me:

i'm also a writer (or want to be one) with way too many fanfic ideas, who updates five days in a row or not for a whole month, a bookworm and probably a tea (& coffee) addict, who also has an unhealthy obsession with bbc sherlock (and johnlock) and often writes sentences so long that no one understands them *gasps*

i'm ALSO…

a johnlockian/sherlockian

a very weird infj

a flopping seal of a fangirl

a heartstopper (i don't stop hearts, this show stopped mine),

potterhead,

hufflepuff,

hardcore directioner,

hardcore swiftie,

shipper of: jawnlawck, narlie, jawnlawck, narlie, jawnlawck, narlie (yes i do love them very dearly), mystrade, snowbaz, wolfstar, newtmas (and many more but it would also take too long to list them all)

also, johnlock

aaand yea. johnlock is my reason to live and to die (ok AND cookie dough)

ok i think that's it. have a holmes-tastic day. and a cookie 🍪

☕️ written thingys ☕️

on wattpad

on ao3

☕️my other blog☕️

is @kevineatscarrots91. Posting about 1d, larry n’ stuff there :-)

[lansplaining]

I just don't understand the appeal of xicheng? Like, i don't even care that they barely met in Canon, I used to ship Mystrade and they were never even in the same episode, but I seriously DO NOT understand the appeal. At least not for LXC fans. I can see the appeal for JC stans - give him a hot, kind man who will do all the emotional labor in the relationship leaving him free to be as much as an asshole as he likes, but as someone who likes LXC I don't see why I would inflict that on my blorbo 😭

I said “talk to me” not “get me murdered by shippers”

I…… do not disagree, however. that’s actually the thing that often really puts me off when I try to read xicheng fic: it often feels like one of them is the main character and the other is the love interest in terms of who gets to have full emotional responses to things and really be themselves vs who is there to support. which is fine as a dynamic, but as you say, I love them both too much to happy with that role for either of them

[bensonnstabler]

Same anon from the muarisi ask, I will say I didn't pair them together because I thought they had a load of chemistry I did it simply because I thought it would be fun and add an interesting dynamic to everything. The backstory is that carisi was using sex to cope with stuff (being in love with Amanda but not feeling as though he could tell her) and he met muncy and thought that it could all go away and let's just say it worked a little too well but they still ended up breaking up after 1 year and then muncy doesn't talk to him for a whole year for at the time reasons unknown they then get back together for the next like 1 and like a half but they end it again and they don't see or talk to each other again until she joins svu where she eventually shares that during that first year that they didn't talk she was pregnant but didn't know how to tell him. There's a whole bunch of other stuff but I've already said so much and I need to go to bed its 5:30 am

no but i love that! as someone who was a rare pair shipper back in the day (🤢 mystrade 🤢 for those keeping score) i love that you can take like bare minimum screen time and come up with this rich head canon!

send me your svu/oc hot takes (or spicy headcanons also!)

[marta-bee]

In which Sherlock is a brat, Mycroft is longsuffering in a maliciously-compliant sort of way, Lestrade is just --well-- perfectly Lestradish, and if you're not clicking the link after reading the sample below to just go read the thing, well, more's the shame for you.

Seriously. I. am. chortling.

(And do follow @eventhorizon451 for more delightful Mystrade if you're not already.)

      “Hmmmm… alright, so you don’t deny Mr. Holmes’s accusations, whatever they may be… I’m still not solid on that but I suspect it’ll tease out at some point.”

      “That is what you gleaned from my speech, Lestrade?”

      “Basically.”

      “Deplorable.”

      “If you say so, sir.  In any case, are you the person responsible for removing the original walkway and replacing it with those concrete slabs?”

      “I am.”

      “Destruction of private property….”

      “Don’t write that down!”

      “Gotta keep the facts straight, sir, so you get fair treatment by the law.  Might I inquire as to where you obtained the cement?”

      “No.”

      “Adding Theft to the charges list.”

      “I did not confess to stealing it!”

      “Can you produce a receipt for your purchase.”

      “Receipts are boring.”

      “Theft stays on the list until such time as the owner of the shop corroborates your purchase or is first informed of his inventory loss and files his own complaint.”

      “There was an extreme surplus of materials at the construction site!  I was reducing the inevitable waste to benefit the environment.”

      “I’ll jot that down as a mitigating factor.”

      “I do not need mitigation!”

      “Making a note that you not only confessed to the crime but are proud of it.  Not that you asked, but my advice is not to say things like that aloud as they tend to work against you in court.”

      “I am not a criminal.  Mycroft’s anti-science biases are, however, and he should be tossed in the stocks as a target for young children practicing their aim with slings and catapults they made during their art instruction at school.”

      “Is that a threat, sir?  Mr. Holmes, are you feeling unsafe due to this person’s words or conduct?”

      “Let me think…”

      ‘Oh, piss OFF, Mycroft!”

      “Yes, I believe I am.”

Mycroft’s smug smile made Sherlock boil over like a pan of milk left on the stove – spectacularly and with a great deal of future promise of more aggravation to come.  Stinky, crusted-on aggravation…

      “Alright, that goes on the list, also.  I think there’s enough here for me to take this individual into custody and see him processed.  I can take your statement here and draw up the paperwork for a formal complaint once I’m at my desk.”

      “Thank you.  It is good to see my taxes well being used for the civic good.”

      “Anything for you, love.”

Sherlock’s gasp drew in all available oxygen in the London area, which explained both Mycroft and Greg’s being frozen in place for several long moments.  Some information was not, at present, slated for certain infantile and hysterical ears.  Though the infant’s ears were now positively dripping with information.

      “You… you… you…. you!”

And the hysteria was commencing.

      “I’m… I’m me, sir, yes, thank you for noticing.”

      “Enough of your failed pantomime, Lestrade – confess!”

      “That’s my line, sir.  Please stick to the designated script.”

[inevitably-johnlocked]

so, saw your post about John's attraction to Lestrade, and it reminded me of 1) how hot Lestrade is ;) and 2) the chemistry between him and Sherlock. in my opinion, they have great chemistry and I'm actually surprised there aren't more Lestrade/Sherlock fics out there.

i wonder if you know of any Johnlock fics where Sherlock had a thing for Lestrade in the past? i would love to see John's reaction when learning about it :D

(re: this post here)

Hey Lovely!!!

YESSSSSS Greg is GORGEOUS, Rupert has always been a fine mess to look at, LOL. He's such a silver fox now, UGH.

Personally, I don't have any recs for Sherstrade since I genuinely see him more as a father figure and friend for Sherlock than anything else, but OF COURSE that's my preference! I know a lot of people love Sherstrade and also see the chemistry (I see the platonic chemistry, not romantic, LOL) I know that @gaylilsherlock has written a few Sherstrade fics, so LipstickDaddy is a good AO3 Account to check out.

Other than that, here are some fics that are tagged on my MFL list:

The Words We Say by SociallyIneptDork (G, 2,565 w., 1 Ch. || Sherstrade || Hurt/Comfort, Angst With Happy Ending, Paternal Lestrade, Hospitals, Big Brother Mycroft, Sherlock Whump, POV Sherlock, Ambiguous Relationship, Sherlock’s Called ‘Freak’) – Greg says what he shouldn't have, and he has to fix what he did. Story has Sherlock's past woven in to show what made him who he is today, so that he could finally begin healing.

Romantic Entanglement by LipstickDaddy (G, 12,025 w., 10 Ch. || Mutual Pining, Idiots in Love, Established Sherstrade, Love Triangles, Love Confessions, Eventual Mystrade, One Night Stands, Fluff, Miscommunication, Eventual Johnlock) – Everything else is transport… until it isn’t.

This Time Tomorrow (Where Will We Be?) by LipstickDaddy (T, 19,383 w., 11 Ch. || Sherstrade || Pre-Canon / Canon Rewrite, Graphic Violence, Friends to Lovers, POV Greg, Protective Greg, Cuddling and Snuggling, Drinking, Talking, Implied/Referenced Drug Use & Self-Harm, Developing Friendships, BAMF Greg, Bed Sharing, Rape/Non-Con, Flashbacks, Friendship / Love, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Friends with Benefits) – Greg Lestrade has known Sherlock Holmes longer than anyone else in the detective’s life; and he’s spent those years on a knife’s edge, keeping him out of harm’s way until the day he can’t. What happens now, Detective Inspector?

Following the (Silver) Fox by Jobooksandcoffee (E, 54,355 w., 15 Ch. || S3 Fix It Fic, Sherstrade, John/Mary, Slow Burn, Friends to Lovers, Pining Sherlock, Resentful John, Regretful John, Domestic Life, Drug Use, Happy Ending, Greg’s Children, Friendship, Unrequited Love) – After two lonely and painful years away eliminating the threads of Moriarty’s web, Sherlock comes home to find John living with Mary. John is also hurt and resentful, determined to not allow Sherlock to undermine his relationship with his new fiancée. Greg, who always thought Sherlock and John belonged together, becomes a closer friend to Sherlock. He gives the Consulting Detective a place to stay, a friend to have dinner with, someone who will listen to him. He tries to keep all interfering feelings at bay. As Sherlock notices his friendship with Greg becomes stronger, he begins to accept that maybe he can be alright even with John not living at Baker Street any more. He and Lestrade can work at the Yard, and talk about cases. Greg is good at rescuing Sherlock when John and Mary’s wedding preparations get intense. They are friends. This is enough for Sherlock. Right?

=====

If anyone has something that they want to suggest to Charlie, let us know!!

[mimisempai]

As sweet as a cupcake

Summary

Mycroft is surprised to come home and see Greg baking. Add to that a little icing and a lot of mischief, and you've got a delicious moment.

Notes

Mystrade Monday  1.0  #43 - "Frost the damn cupcakes"

@mystradepromptsandscenarios

On AO3

507 words - Rating G

"Greg! My goodness, what is all this, what are you doing?"

Greg, who was taking a tray of cupcakes out of the oven, placed them on the counter before turning to Mycroft.

He replied wryly, "What does this look like to you? Embroidery?"

All he got in response was a chuckle from Mycroft.

"What?"

Mycroft stepped forward and ran a knuckle across Greg's cheek, "You've just got a bit of flour there," then ran his finger across Greg's forehead, "And here," before finally brushing Greg's hair back, "And a bit all over the hair."

Greg turned back to the counter where he grabbed a bowl of icing for the cupcakes and began filling the piping bag.

Mycroft moved to stand beside him, put on an apron and asked quietly, "Can I help you?"

Greg handed him the piping bag and replied, "It would help if you could frost these cupcakes while I get on with the next batch."

Mycroft nodded and, holding the piping bag, walked over to the tray of cupcakes that Greg had taken out of the oven. As he did so, he asked, "You still haven't told me why you're making these cupcakes?"

Greg answered, "This is Lisa, my niece. When I asked her what she wanted me to do for her birthday, she said she wanted me to make her cupcakes because my sister told her I was the only one who could make them as well as my mother."

He put another plate in the oven before turning back to Mycroft and discovering him tasting the frosting. 

Greg exclaimed, "Mycroft, frost the damn cupcakes instead of eating the icing."

Mycroft, not looking at all embarrassed, replied as he began to put the icing on the cupcakes, "In my defense, I must say that your icing is delicious."

Greg turned away, not wanting to show how pleased he was by the compliment. 

An hour later, several dozen cupcakes were lined up and stacked on a tray when Greg approached and looked over Mycroft's shoulder.

He said softly, "You missed one."

Mycroft's puzzled gaze scanned the tray, then replied, "I can't see which one."

Greg grabbed the piping bag from Mycroft's hands and applied some icing to the tip of Mycroft's nose before saying with a mischievous smile, "There."

Mycroft exclaimed, "Greg! I don't know whether to take offense at the fact that you just put icing on my nose, or that you implicitly referred to me as a cupcake."

Greg chuckled softly before moving closer to Mycroft so that their faces were close together. He raised himself a little on tiptoe and said quietly, "If that's all it is, I can remove it." 

Then, without waiting for an answer, he licked the tip of Mycroft's nose, removing any trace of icing.

Then he stepped back and added, "My lovely cupcake..."

Mycroft's reaction was immediate and he captured Greg's lips in a kiss that was passionate but as sweet as the cupcakes they'd just baked.

_________

Still not beta'd

Still not my native language

Still hoping you'll enjoy this story  🥰

Still thanking you for bearing with me 😝

Mystrade masterlist here

Mystrade Monday 1.0 : here

[writingfanficsfan]

Summary:

You’re right. I deserve better. I deserve you.” Greg says, placing his hand on Mycroft’s shoulder, keeping their gazes locked. Mycroft closes his mouth, opens it to say something. “I didn’t-” “You did. You meant you. Myc. Please, make me forget.” Greg says again, rubbing his nose against Mycroft’s, pulling back enough to look into his eyes. He’s not a fool, he can see the want in those story eyes but he also feels the conflict. It almost radiates off Mycroft’s body and Greg’s stomach twists with guilt.

@lavenderandvanilla A tentative comeback to AO3.

[finleycannotdraw]

going to the finley gay shop search engine to ask what the ship dynamic between jaskier geralt and regis would be

can’t say I’ve never considered this but I have to be honest. I don’t actually like the three of them together that much :/ nothing against it, no hate, it just doesn’t really vibe for me *shrug*

BUT!! geralt and jaskier are obviously complementary, they show each other new things and new perspectives, balance each other out, very important in any relationship.

geralt and regis are both older and more settled in a way, they have tired dad vibes that I am weak for (see: mystrade obsession) and monster/monster hunter which I am also weak for. they understand and trust each other because they both know how it feels to be othered by society, and both have dark pasts that they aren’t proud of, and I really think they can help each other heal in a way that is more gentle than any other dynamic.

and jaskier and regis are both fucking nerds <3 (in seriousness I think they’d provide each other with a space to be authentic about what they enjoy, which is also very important in any relationship)

all together I feel like they’d have a great balance of chaos and reason, and a genuine drive to help each other! great material for an ot3, I just don’t personally see them that way :)

the most unexpected ot3 possibility I’ve encountered was (I could’ve sworn I saw it tagged anyway) detlaff/avallac’h/gaunter o’dimm, but I can’t find it anymore so I quite possibly could’ve made that one up💀