#detective!damen

[quiet-butch12]

Once again baffling German security

[stardustcasti]

But, regarding Captive Prince AUs-

We all like the "Auguste Live AU" I've been writing one myself, but I had a dream about CaPri today and I thought to myself what if we had:

(Note: Some of those AU had probably been done before, and If you know any good ones like that you are welcome to leave recs on the comments.)

1. Damen is actually a soldier from the Akielon army instead of the prince.

I have to think this one through but I think my half-asleep brain thought about a complete change of dynamic while Damen is not the one who killed Auguste.

2. A...modern Royalty AU?

I think it's possible someone else had thought about this one, I mean something similar to RW&RB, but instead of how Alex is a politician they both are princes from modern Royal Families, not ones that necessarily exist in our reality.

3. Make it actually Historical and not part of Fictional countries AU.

This one might exist somewhere as well- I am not sure about historically accurate while Damen is Middle Eastern-ish (I am talking about the botanics and the nature in Akielon that are clearly Middle Eastern) Roman? And Laurent is French?

4. Detectives AU

Laurent Being the Sherlock and Damen being the Watson obviously. But like, a true murder mystery, with a romance sub-plot, not the other way around.

5.a Dancers AU

Can't write this one since I don't understand enough of the Dancing world (And I am talking about professional dancing), but I guess that with enough research-

5.b Comcert Band AU

Definitely can write this once since I have experience with it, especially Wind concert bands 👀 and I might as well do it.

6. In my dream...

Laurent was a Painter, probably some kind of court painter and Damen was a Spy. Specific? VERY. But I can't deny it's cool.

7. Library AU

LAURENT IS LIBRARIAN AND DAMEN IS LIKE, A FOREIGN EXCANGE STUDENT WHO COMES TO THE CLOSENT LIBRARY TO STUDY AND THEY LIKE, FALL IN LOVE AND DAMEN TAKES SOME RECS TO IMPRESS HIM AND THEN FALL IN LOVE WITH READING? LIKE IN SOME "The Last Bookshop in London" situation. (Dose anyone know this wonderful book?)

Bonus for this AU: Laurent is a student for some kind of scientific feild who dreams to be an Author and write a novel in secret.

8. Mafia x Police AU

I though about this one a while ago, Laurent is a police officer and Damen is a member of the mafia. He is a son of a mafia boss and there is all of the canon-like Kastor kills Theomedes and sends him to the version of the Regent for this AU, Damen killed Auguste a while ago and He knows Laurent will kill him if he knows of his identity. Instead of preventing a war between Akielos and Vere in Prince Gambit, in this AU they try to keep their country in peace.

I can develop each of them into a long molti-chapters fic, I swear.

[nuttersinc]

So, thoughts on a five days Captive Prince marathon reading:

The writing: I hadn't picked this up because I'm not that much into slave fic, but I read some quotes last week and thought: this sounds so good and the writing is brilliant... Let's have a look. Hooked after 1 page, I think. The writing is masterful. Both lush and sparse, light and dense. Achingly beautiful, then simplistic.

What's it about: Starts out like slave fic - Prince gets sold into slavery to the enemy court to serve as bedslave to the enemy Prince - but veers off into a highly convoluted political conspiracy with a million twists and turns. Keeps you entertained until the suspenseful end.

Damen, our hero and POV: at first you think he's a himbo - broad shouldered, strong and tall, very physical with an animal intelligence about him, but if Laurent wasn't there to be the cleverest person in the room, he would be. Strong sense of duty and loyalty and what is right (in his society's limitations), fiercely protective. Tends to mindlessly shed blood if someone he cares about is threatened.

Laurent, the enemy Prince, whose uncle is regent: Laurent is cruel and seems cold hearted. He's a manipulative bitch, and he's always - with one notable acception - the most clever and cunning person in the room. He's a survivor and he does everything it takes. He's usually a step ahead of everyone, planning for contingencies. He's also sassy and talks like he was raised in a brothel, even though he takes noone to his bed. Contrary to Damen who is a fighter with honour, Laurent fights dirty. He's a perfect parcel of deadly and cute.

Some things that I had massive feels about: (Spoilers ahead!!!!)

* the reveal that Laurent knew he was Damianos all along. I squealed. (I mean, he nearly had him flogged to death, and at some point early you realise that Laurent is usually cruel with intention, not with sadism)

* their little adventure in the inn: their roles reversed, Laurent as the pleasure slave, Laurent's helpless giggling as they are pressed up against each other on the balcony, nearly detected, Damen overwhelmed and confused by Laurent's body shaking against him

* all the times Damen stayed, after he realised what was really going on in Vere

* Jokaste and Laurent trying to out bitch each other and being severely unpleasant towards each other

* the renowned veretian cloth merchant imposter thing - fucking hilarious.

* Laurent appointing Damen his captain

* Damen making sure nobody disturbs Laurent when he's in a mood

*Damen being a bitch about being interrupted kissing Laurent, even as they take him away

* Laurent, all hot and bothered, when Damen returns victorious from naked oil wrestling

* Damen, all hot and bothered, when he sees Laurent in a chiton for the first time

* Laurent's smile the morning after

* Damen's smile the morning after Laurent drinks to win over Makedon...

* all the fights and all the softness. Their camraderie 😥😁😍

* so much more, will add later...

[impromptu-sketches]

Hi...I'm the one who ask BL recs like KazuRei....Just want to say, thanks so much for your answer, I've read some of them, and they were spot on....🤩

If you don't mind, can I ask for another BL recs that have the same vibe as damen/laurent from novels "Captive Prince" (kind, protective, bigger build seme x clever, tsundere, beautiful uke)? Or like andrew/ neil from novels "All for the Game : Foxhole Court" (both have strong personalities, can be reversible couples, looks weak but actually strong) ? Sorry for this long ask, feel free if you want to answer either one, both or none? I just started reading BL, last year, and your blog, are like my guideline..... Thanks so much for sharing your recs and reviews...Again, sorry if I compare them to novels....Hope you have a wonderful day.....

Glad you liked the KazuRei list (ㅅ´ ˘ `)♡

I'm a HUGE fan of the Captive Prince trilogy!! Even with adding to the partial list I already have for it, I don't feel like any of these fully capture Damen & Laurent's relationship dynamic or personalities but if you like them you may also like:

Twittering Birds Never Fly | yakuza, bdsm, masochist bottom boss x new employee (ongoing)

Liveta | (recommending Liveta for them too) fantasy, prince bottom x commoner top, enemy lands (ongoing)

Taming the Tiger | historical, uke lord x seme slave (ongoing)

King's Maker / King's Maker Triple Crown | fantasy, political, royalty, slow burn, bottom is the brains x top is the bronze (ongoing)

Mad Place | detective x suspect, clever & cute uke (ongoing)

Under the Green Light | gang leader x student (ongoing)

Steel Under Silk | historical, seme lord x uke slave (ongoing)

Therapy Game / Therapy Game Restart | gorgeous uke, soft & sweet, wholesome (ongoing)

●

I haven't read All For the Game, I'm only vaguely familiar with the story (my understanding of it is angsty and aggressive college boys with dark undertones?), but here's my best shot at recommendations for Andrew and Neil. Let me know what you think or what you would recommend instead:

Love Shuttle | adults, omegaverse, strong omega, enemies to lovers, coworkers (completed)

Wet Stand | adults, gangs, love triangle, strong uke (ongoing)

Dark Heaven | adults, bandmates, childhood friends to lovers, switches, ride or die relationship (completed)

OUROBOROS | psychological, love triangle, past trauma/abuse (completed)

Lost in the Cloud | students, psychological (ongoing)

Wagging the Tail | college, enemies to lovers, switches, animal characteristics (completed)

A Shoulder to Cry On | students, love/hate relationship (completed)

Sweet and Cold | college, childhood friends (completed)

19 Days | students, slice of life, comedy, gang family ties (ongoing)

●

I'd love to hear other recommendations, especially for Captive Prince if anyone has any!

♡ Thank you for the questions

[measured-words]

9 Fandom Peeps to Get to Know Better:

Tagged by @fealiniel - Is this because I took you to the faerie hill 🤔 Thanks though :D

3 ships I like: Okay I am a multi-shipper there are SO MANY ships I like, give me one blorbo and I can give you a whole set of this for them, for good and ill. But for variety, here are three I have been enjoying lately: Hua Cheng and Xie Lian (TGCF/Heaven Official's Blessing), Any combination of Li Lianhua/Di Feisheng/Fang Duobing from Mysterious Lotus Casebook, and because I was just falling into a mild reblog spree when I noticed this tag, Damen/Laurent from Captive Prince.

First ship ever: Uhhhh, hmm, I think this will explain a lot about me (at least, that I am Old) but the oldest thing I remember shipping is Kain/Rosa (but in a sad way, see) from Final Fantasy II/IV. yeah >.>

Last song I heard: WELL I'm not sure. Do you count my youngest nephew yelling some Gorilla Tag rap thing incessantly at dinner? Before that it was… whatever song my sister was listening to when she was cooking/cleaning earlier which was a banger playlist but I don't remember the exact song.

Favorite childhood book: uuuh. How childhood are we talking? Like... The Pokey Little Puppy childhood? Let's go with that :V We used to have a record of it. (I did mention old...)

Currently reading: Moby Dick, slowly, via Whale Weekly, having ErHa (The Husky and his White Cat Shizun) read to me also slowly but less slowly), and re-reading TGCF.

Currently watching: Actaully just finished watching a couple of series (Kinnporsche and True Detective: Night Country) and haven't started anything new yet!

Currently consuming: I just finished a cherry vanilla doughnut, which was delicious :)

Currently craving: Well I Had been craving doughnuts… I'm good at the moment though!

Tagging: hmmm... @kyrstin @thatwomanwithglasses @starbuck-7 @leavethepuddle @sakoku-decree @ailurinae @goldturnedgray @katenepveu @stormsongandsword If you feel inclined!

[grumfield]

If you don't mind me asking, who are your favorite romantic relationship's couples in books/ manga/ anime/movies/tv series (can be canon or non-canon)? Sorry if you've answered this question before......Thanks....

Hi!! I don't mind at all, thank you so much for this ask!! I'm always happy to talk about my favorite ships :) These are in no particular order...and there's a lot lol so sorry in advance!

Mo Ran and Chu Wanning from 2ha ( Canon): dumb little mass murderer horndog is his pathetic depressed teacher who couldn't regulate his emotions if his life depended on it. They make me want to bite something and tear it to shreds.

Gideon and Harrowhark from the Locked Tomb series (Not canon...yet): Gideon is like if Utena was a big beefcake butch lesbian and Harrowhark is like what if Anthy was anemic and utterly swagless

Damen and Laurent from Captive Prince: (Canon) I read their story at an impressionable age and they changed my brain chemistry. They're the best enemies to lovers couple and I will die on that hill.

Enkidu and Gilgamesh from The Epic of Gilgamesh: (either or bro it's your interpretation) ancient story about a goat man who's sole existence is to kill a king and he becomes friends with him instead...what's not to like bro???

You Miao and Li Zhifeng from LSWW (Canon): Ouuughhh...i love them so much...spoiled little tea merchant's son and the mysterious Quanrong dude he hangs with...shit gets so crazy and political I love it and I love them

Hannibal and Will from Hannibal: (Canon) omg what if i was a suit-wearing pun-loving freak and i was psychosexually obsessed with a sweaty little fisherman who knows allllllll the ways I'm fucked up ahhah then what

Villanelle and Eve from Killing Eve: (Canon...?) bro don't even get me started

Shefali and O Shizuka from The Tiger's Daughter: (Canon) fantasy mongolian warrior woman and her soulmate a fantasy japanese woman. They fight demons together and it's GREAT.

Asako Minami and Kuroiwa Hiroto from Stigmata (Canon): Detective Guy whose body recreates the injuries of people who were recently killed in the area he's in and his detective partner

Jaime and Brienne from Game of Thrones: I fuck with the manlet/giant woman who tops combo

An Zhe and Li Feng from Little Mushroom: (Canon) they remind me a lot of the characters from No.6 which was really formative for me in middle school...except i find them more endearing bc they're both kind of like unexpressive dudes!! love their dynamic

Mizusawa and Takatsu from Young Bad Education/Young Good Boyfriend: (Canon): OUGH!!! pathetic pathetic teacher and his fucked up weirdass student...I love them...their relationship is so incredibly cute wah

Hector and Achilles from...the Illiad...: (Not Canon) yeah yeah yeah flame me all you want I think they're superior to Patroclus/Achilles yes i read fic about them (they're the only couple I read fic of)

I haven't read the series since I was 12 but I think Tessa, Will, and Jem from Infernal Devices should have gotten together period

Whatever the fuck Phoenix Wright and Edgeworth have going on

Those chicks from the Handmaiden

Anyways there we go LMAO

[dark-twist-fairytales]

Alright, Damen's knowledge of The Assassi's BEFORE they were assassins.

Malli - Damen knew of him for being a local cop, but never actually met him. Malli was one of the few rookies that didn't listen to the higher ups in bothering someone for no good reasons. He has respect for Malli, even if he hasn't met him.

Joey - He's read newspapers on her and her work, and has been interrogated by her during her detective days. They're sweet but stern with her work, and this has Damen's respect. If Gallows didn't get to him, he'd go to Joey for legal help.

Kyro - Well, of COURSE he'd know Kyro! Kyro and him are half-siblings, Kyro being older. The two confided in each other a lot, as well as his older brother, Valley, being a translator from Damen to Kyro. Damen helped Kyro pick their new name out. Those three were inseparable at family gatherings.

Riker - He is not aware of Riker's existence before The Assassi's. After The Assassi's, however, he's seen Riker in the newspaper as his alias 'Orange', 'Assassin', and 'Modern Day Robin Hood'.

Marc - Very similar to Riker, he didn't know Marc before he was an assassin, but rather after, under similar aliases of 'Blue, 'Assassin', and 'Sniper'

[themarketupdate]

Fast Attack Craft Market is Booming Worldwide | Gaining Revolution In Eyes of Global Exposure

A fast attack craft is a small, fast, agile and offensive warship armed with anti-ship missiles, guns or torpedoes. These warships usually operated in close proximity to land as they lack both the seakeeping and all-round defensive capabilities to survive in blue water. It is designed as a high-speed multi-role platform able to operate in both anti-air and surface combat situations. It incorporates advanced technologies to minimize infrared, radar, magnetic and noise signatures to reduce the chances of detection and enhance the operational effectiveness of the ship.

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[ama2024]

https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/reports/77401-global-patrol-vessels-market

Patrol Vessels Market: An Asymmetrical Opportunity on Sales

Advance Market Analytics released a new market study on Global Patrol Vessels Market Research report which presents a complete assessment of the Market and contains a future trend, current growth factors, attentive opinions, facts, and industry validated market data. The research study provides estimates for Global Patrol Vessels Forecast till 2029*.

A patrol boat is a relatively small naval vessel generally designed for coastal defense, border protection, immigration law enforcement, search and rescue duties. There have been many designs for patrol boats

Key Players included in the Research Coverage of Patrol Vessels Market are:

Austal (Australia), Ares Shipyard Inc. (Turkey), Baltic Workboats AS (Europe), BAE Systems (United Kingdom), Cheoy Lee Shipyards Ltd. (Hong Kong), Damen Shipyards Group (Netherlands), Fassmer (Germany), Hyundai Lifeboats Co., Ltd. (Republic of Korea), Kership (France), LOMOcean Design (New Zealand),

What's Trending in Market: Growing Demand for Offshore Patrol Vessels

Challenges: High Cost Associated with Patrol Vessels Fluctuation in Prices of Raw Materials

Opportunities: There are Many Other Leading Technologies are Available in the Maritime Communication Market Development in Commercial Marine Sector Majorly in Oil & Gas Industry

Market Growth Drivers: Rapid Development in Defense and Military High Advancement in Naval Industry A Strong Commercial Integrated Model Vertically Integrated Manufacturing and Supply

The Global Patrol Vessels Market segments and Market Data Break Down by Type (Offshore Patrol Vessel, Inshore Patrol Vessel), Application (Coastal Defence, Border Protection, Immigration Law Enforcement, Search and Rescue Duties, Oil Spill Detection), Crew (30 – 50, 50 – 100, More than 100)

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• Asia-Pacific: India, China, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia.

[militaryleak]

ABB Awarded Contract to Supply Integrated Power and Distribution System for ASW Frigates

Damen Naval has chosen ABB to supply its Onboard DC Grid integrated power and distribution system to the new Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Frigates. The Vlissingen-based shipbuilder is building four state-of-the-art frigates, two for the Royal Netherlands Navy and two for the Belgian navy. It is the second collaboration between Damen Naval and ABB; in early 2022, the Norwegian division of company was contracted for the F126 Frigate project for the German Navy. The ASW Frigates will replace the current generation of Karel Doorman-class Multipurpose frigates and can be deployed for multiple tasks. The emphasis will be on anti-submarine warfare, and they will be designed to sail as quietly as possible to avoid detection by submarines as much as possible.

Damen Naval has chosen ABB to supply its Onboard DC Grid integrated power and distribution system to the new Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Frigates. The Vlissingen-based shipbuilder is building four state-of-the-art frigates, two for the Royal Netherlands Navy and two for the Belgian navy. It is the second collaboration between Damen Naval and ABB; in early 2022, the Norwegian division of company…

[poojascmi]

Global Offshore Patrol Vessels Market Is Estimated To Witness High Growth Owing To Increasing Defense Expenditure

The global Offshore Patrol Vessels Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 15.53 billion in 2022 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 4.1% over the forecast period 2023 to 2030, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights. Market Overview: Offshore patrol vessels are naval ships primarily used for patrolling and policing coastal boundaries. These vessels play a crucial role in safeguarding a country's maritime environment, protecting its offshore assets, and ensuring the safety of its waters. Offshore patrol vessels offer several advantages such as enhanced surveillance capabilities, versatility in missions, and cost-effectiveness compared to larger naval vessels. The need for these vessels is driven by the increasing defense expenditure of countries, rising maritime threats, and the need for effective border control. Market Key Trends: One key trend in the offshore patrol vessels market is the integration of advanced technologies for enhanced surveillance and defense capabilities. This includes the adoption of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for aerial surveillance, advanced radar systems for target detection, and improved communication systems for real-time data sharing. For example, Damen Shipyards Group N.V. has introduced the Damen SWORD-17, an offshore patrol vessel equipped with advanced technology for increased situational awareness and operational efficiency. PEST Analysis: Political: The political environment plays a crucial role in the offshore patrol vessels market. Government policies and regulations related to maritime security, defense spending, and international collaborations impact the demand for these vessels. Economic: Economic factors such as GDP growth, disposable income, and trade activities influence the defense budget allocated for offshore patrol vessels. Economic stability and growth drive investments in naval capabilities. Social: Social factors such as increasing concerns over maritime terrorism, drug smuggling, illegal fishing, and piracy drive the demand for offshore patrol vessels. These vessels help in maintaining the safety and security of coastlines, protecting natural resources, and safeguarding international waters. Technological: Technological advancements in the field of maritime surveillance, communication systems, and propulsion technologies are driving the growth of the offshore patrol vessels market. The integration of advanced technology enhances the operational capabilities of these vessels. Key Takeaways: 1: The Global Offshore Patrol Vessels Market Size is expected to witness high growth, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.1% over the forecast period, due to increasing defense expenditure. Countries are investing in modernizing their naval fleets and strengthening their maritime defense capabilities. 2: In terms of regional analysis, Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing and dominating region in the offshore patrol vessels market. This can be attributed to the rising maritime disputes, territorial conflicts, and the need for maritime security in countries such as China, India, and Japan. 3: Key players operating in the global offshore patrol vessels market are Austal Ltd., BAE Systems plc, Damen Shipyards Group N.V., Dearsan, Fincantieri S.p.A., Fr. Fassmer GmbH & Co. KG, Fr. Lürssen Werft GmbH & Co.KG, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited, Israel Shipyards Ltd., and Naval Group. These companies are focusing on product innovation, strategic collaborations, and mergers to strengthen their market presence. In conclusion, the global offshore patrol vessels market is poised for significant growth due to increasing defense expenditure and the need for maritime security. The integration of advanced technologies and regional dominance of the Asia Pacific region further contribute to market expansion. Key players in the market are constantly striving to stay competitive by investing in research and development initiatives.

[apwmagazine]

Malcolm X College on lockdown after nearby shooting

Malcolm X College on lockdown after nearby shooting

Share Tweet Pinterest Whatsapp Reports of person shot at Damen Jackson on sidewalk by Malcolm X College A number of different law enforcement organizations are reacting to a complaint of person shot at Damen Jackson on sidewalk by Malcolm X College. Officers and detectives are currently on scene conducting an investigation. As at the time of this report, there has been neither confirmation…

[dreamdropxoxo]

Hello! I just try to stay active and thus I’m posting part 6 of the prosecutor/detective AU. :) I still have no title and will continue to ignore this issue for a long time.

Damen wiped his sweaty hands on his jeans. His gaze flitted to the entrance of the waiting room of the secondary gender specialist. He had been too early by almost half an hour because he couldn’t wait at home any longer. 

Laurent had, as promised, arranged an appointment for them with the best known expert in the city and now he sat here, Saturday morning at half past ten, a nervous wreck.

He stood up and paced.

He knew he would feel much better if Laurent were there too. His skin felt too tight on him and he almost growled at all the scents flooding his senses. He felt as if he was shortly before a rut, self-aware enough of his heightened aggressiveness and territoriality. 

 Right when he thought he couldn't handle the wait anymore the door opened. In came Laurent, hair artfully tousled, endless legs clad in dark grey slacks, slender upper-body accentuated by the pale blue shirt and silver-blue waistcoat, eyes immediately fixating on Damen.

He looked- Damen didn't even have words to describe it. Laurent looked- devastating and he wanted to press him up against the wall and ravish him until his careful control slipped and he was a moaning wreck. The alpha felt the blood rush southwards.

"You're able to follow simple instructions. That's good. I wasn't sure." Laurent said coolly and gracefully sat in one of the chairs. His eyes still tracking every movement of Damen. He felt himself grow hot, whether through shame, anger or arousal wasn't clear.

A growl left his mouth and immediately the omega across from him froze. It was only for a second but it seemed to make Laurent furious. If he was more angered by Damen's disrespect or his own instinctive reaction wasn't really clear.

He sneered and leaned back in the chair, as if he liked lounging in the same room as an obviously agitated alpha, just to deliberately raise an eyebrow over blazing eyes and saying, "don't bother. I'm already aware of the fact that alphas are beasts. You don't have to educate me with cavemen posturing."

Damen was horrified by himself. Alphas were made aware of the effect of their growls from a young age and it was the height of disrespect to growl in the presence of an omega. The only exception was between mates and there the growls were never intended for intimidation. What had he done?

"I'm so very sorry. Really, I don't know what's wrong with me." He gripped his hair and shook his head. "Please, believe me when I say that I'd never ever try to force you or even hurt you. I'm not some savage." 

Something in Laurent's shoulder's seemed to relax. He rearranged his long limbs on the chair and stared Damen down with his incredible, blue eyes. "Hard to believe after what I've seen so far from you. Mangling the grammatical structure of our beautiful language beyond all recognition is certainly fitting for a savage."

The alpha felt the next rush of heat through him but this time it wasn't anger, he was sure. Just as he wanted to open his mouth, a beta man entered the room and smiled at them. "Mr. Vallis and Mr. Leblanc, I assume?" He waited until both of them nodded and then nodded. "If you'd please follow me. Dr. DuPont will be with you shortly."

He directed them to a beautiful office, where they sat down on comfortable armchairs.

"Look, I'm really sorry. Something is definitively wrong with me and I normally don't act like such an-" Damen needed to search for the right word. 

"Arsehole." He said at the same time as Laurent filled the gap with, "Disrespecting git."

He couldn't keep the laughter back and even the omega had a smirk on his lips. It was then that Dr. DuPont entered the office, a faint scent drifting towards them.

Damen was on his feet immediately. He placed himself between Laurent and the unknown alpha who entered the room, posture intimidating, heart racing and thoughts occupied with protect, mine, protectprotectprotect. 

"Interesting," was all the man said, looking from Damen to the chair Laurent occupied and then to a file. "You don't have to worry, Mr. Vallis, I'm no threat to Mr. Leblanc."

Finally Damen's rational brain caught up with the situation and he let his shoulders relax and smiled apologetically at the man.

 "I'm sorry. I'm not myself today. It's nice to meet you Dr. DuPont."

The alpha returned his smile and nodded. "Nothing to worry about. I'm used to reactions like yours. Most of my patients have similar symptoms." He walked towards his desk while Damen sat down on his armchair. 

He turned towards Laurent, the apology already on his tongue and what he saw made him grateful that he already sat. The omega was flushed red with blown pupils, he bit on his bottom lip and had his fists balled on the armrests.

 Dr. DuPond immediately offered pushed one water bottle closer to Laurent while Damen stared speechless at the beauty before him. Laurent's gaze flickered to him for a second and that was almost enough for Damen to lose control completely. He observed how the blond man reached for the bottle with shaking fingers. 

He wanted to lick each and every one of those beautiful digits, suck at the scent gland located on those wrists and biting his way up over the pale skin to his throat.

"That's really interesting," Dr. DuPond remarked again, his gaze jumping from Laurent to Damen. "Would you please explain to me why the two of you are here today?"

[beautifulduckweed]

Captive Goose Chapter 7: A Scandal in Lentos

OK OK look, I know, it’s not a goose, it’s an indoutka, but the VIBE of this bird, I just need you to imagine that my dirtbag indestructible soulmate goose has this LOOK on its stupid FACE throughout the second half of this fic, all right? Just. Keep that in mind.

Anyway, new Captive Goose chapter is up: A Scandal in Lentos. The summary:

Laurent of Vere, Boy Detective is on the case, investigating the Mystery of the Golden Gelding and the Case of the Broken Boar Spear. What secrets will he uncover? What enigmas shall he unravel? Find out in this chapter!

An excerpt:

It was the rats that drew his attention. A small pile of them squirmed in a corner and were undeterred by the light Jord shone upon them, nor by their approaching footsteps. The small hairs on Laurent’s nape stood at attention. Jord found a broken stave and stuck it into the heaving mass; the heap disintegrated, individual rats slipping off like drops of oil and melting into the blackness beyond the small circle of light thrown by the lantern.

At the bottom of the heap was a small body, unmoving. Another rat. Laurent walked over and picked it up by the tail. It was still warm, either because it had died recently, or from the warmth of its brethren as they squirmed atop it. Its fur was covered in slick fluid, and its mouth hung open. Laurent set its body aside carefully.

What could be going on with those rats, hmmm hmmm hmmm. Guess you’ll have to read the fic to find out!

[redwritinghood]

for a lamen writing prompt maybe something like enenmy secret agents or assassins

YES. ngl though kinda gets soft rather than action/adventure-y 

—

A shadow fell over Damen’s desk and he knew he was about to get bad news. Nikandros never loomed behind him to ask what bar they were going to after work.

“What’s up?” Damen turned in his chair and looked up at Nik’s dark expression.

“You’re being taken off field duty,” he said and folded his arms, guarding against Damen’s objections.

“Why?” Damen asked standing.

“Intel has discovered a hit was put out on you and an assassin has already accepted the job.”

“That doesn’t mean I should be taken off field duty,” Damen said.

“Yes,” Nik emphasized his words, “it does.”

“That’s what the person who put the hit out wants. I’m obviously on to something with my case. Besides, I have to go outside at some point, you can’t keep me locked away in the building.”

Nikandros stood firm in his decision, staring Damen down with no chance of relenting.

“Nik—” Damen began.

“Don’t even start.”

“Just let me—”

“No. Desk duty.” Nik ended the conversation by marching away.

The threat was bothersome but Damen determinedly went about his daily schedule. Only under scrutiny did he realize how predictable his routine was. Particularly the mornings. After the gym, he went to the same cafe and made an excellent target when he sat outside to eat his breakfast. There were even tall buildings across the street, an ideal place for a sniper to nest and take him out. This was where Damen would set his trap.

“Damn it, Damen, you aren’t even trying to be careful.” Nikandros’s shadow loomed over Damen’s desk and he turned in his chair to look up at the grumpy expression.

“You said desk duty and I’ve been here, at my desk, for over a week.”

“That doesn’t matter if you’re just going to walk around the city unprotected.” 

“Exactly,” Damen agreed, “I’m more likely to be shot outside of work, so you should probably just let me back on my case.”

For a moment, Nikandros was speechless. “You’re unbelievable. I’ll start having you escorted to and from work in an armored vehicle if that’s what it takes.”

“No thanks, I’ll handle this myself,” Damen said.

“Handle what yourself?” Nikandros asked. His face was darkening to an unhealthy color.

“My assassin,” Damen said. Nikandros opened his mouth then closed it, a vein prominent on his forehead. Damen had mercy, and said, “As in I think after Friday I’ll be working from home.”

Nikandros recovered enough to say, “Fine,” before he stormed off.

Damen had been certain to follow his same routine for a week, most importantly taking his breakfast outside the cafe. Everything else he let vary to be certain the assassin considered the cafe was the best place to strike. Now he just had to force the date and time. Only two days until Friday and Damen continued his morning routine, but was careful when he visited the cafe. One morning he’d been purposefully late so his breakfast went with him to the office, the next day he was fortunate the forecast had been reliable and ate inside to avoid the rain. 

His assassin had to know Friday would be their last chance. The night before, Damen prepared, packing his gym bag differently than normal. His body thrummed with nervous energy. He was excited.

At the cafe, Damen had to plan his moves carefully. His pulse was loud in his ears as he stepped outside claiming his usual table. After setting his breakfast down he re-entered the building hoping it appeared like he planned on returning to his meal and the sniper would wait. Instead, Damen went out the back, pulling his hood over his head he bolted across the street far enough from the cafe to go unnoticed. The schematics for the buildings had been obtained through work and he had used them to memorize the quickest path to the place a sniper would likely set up camp.

The gun came out of the shoulder holster when he was close to where he predicted the sniper would be. The top two floors were empty, closed off for construction until someone bought the office space. The area was plywood walls, with multiple trip hazards, and plastic flapping in the breeze. It was exactly where a movie or tv show would depict a waiting assassin. 

He turned the corner and aimed the handgun at nothing. The space was empty. Damen could barely hear over his heartbeat. His stomach had dropped with disappointment. Carefully he approached one of the open windows where the hot summer air blew in uninhibited. The cafe was easily visible, he could even see a pigeon attacking his breakfast sandwich. This was the best vantage point for a sniper. 

Unless. 

Unless the person he was looking for never did the expected. Damen thought quickly. Where would there be another vantage point? 

There was another spot. The adjacent building had its large industrial AC units on the roof. They would hide a person easily, but the line of sight would be a different angle. Even an experienced marksman would have some difficulty lining up the shot. 

It was loud. The flat rooftop vibrated. The large units and giant exhaust pipes created a maze. Gun still in hand, he approached the probable sniper spot. There wasn’t a clear view, he couldn’t tell if an assassin waited only a few feet away. 

A sharp beam of sunlight reflected into his eyes. He threw up a hand seeing a singular bright spot near the ledge. It was a small mirror. 

Damen’s heart was in his throat. The assassin had been able to see him coming. He turned in time. A figure dressed entirely in black rolled out from behind a vent pipe, rifle braced to the shoulder. Damen dove for cover barely fitting between the metal units. The assassin was swift and nimble, leaping onto the platform above Damen. He grabbed the attacker’s ankle and the body hit with a metallic hollow thump. On his back, he aimed the rifle at Damen’s face. Only a foot away, Damen was able to catch the barrel and redirect it away from his body. Black boots kicked off Damen’s chest, he slid backward off the unit and ripped the rifle from Damen’s grasp. 

There was a glimpse of the figure as the assassin disappeared into another row. Smaller than Damen, he hid easily. Whereas Damen had to crouch down to keep from being seen. The motors from the ACs masked most sounds and unable to rely on sound or vision, Damen had to trust his instincts. 

Just a flash of black was seen from his peripheral, but it gave him enough time to turn and block an assault. Too close to use the rifle like a gun, the assassin had swung it as a club. The blow had landed on Damen’s forearm. It stung but he reached out to catch the black figure. He would undoubtedly have the upper hand in wrestling or hand-to-hand combat. 

His arm was kicked aside, the movement grounded in a martial arts stance. Damen squared-off, a balanced position. The assassin’s face was hidden beneath a black hood so Damen wouldn’t be able to read the expressions and interpret the next move. It came with speed and agility, using the rifle like a bo staff. Damen had to block both the gun and another kick. He tried to snatch the rifle but still held his own gun and only had the one free hand. The assassin was skilled, more acrobatic, using the varying heights of the units to his advantage. It made Damen have to evade spinning kicks at head height. 

It was very impressive. The ninja-like skill of the assassin was a contrast to Damen’s sturdy defense. The only advantage was speed, there wasn’t enough power to do serious harm, and Damen was mostly concerned with the rifle. The enemy was smart, knowing to stay out of reach and use the gun like two separate weapons. It had to be blocked when used as a club and avoided when the barrel pointed at him. All of this was done while fending off the distracting barrage of attacks. 

Damen moved backward, careful of tripping hazards, and eventually stepped into a clearing where he thought he would have the advantage. Damen took the offensive, also experienced in martial arts. His opponent was skilled even without the help of the varying terrain. He moved deftly, skirting the edge of Damen’s reach. He caught the rifle and only had the one hand to hold on with. The assassin tried turning the gun to dislodge Damen’s grip, but he held on. Quickly, he pushed forward, walking the assassin back into a corner, and trapped him against the brick. Damen’s body held him there, unable to escape, the rifle a hard line between them. 

Damen ripped off the hood. Blond hair spilled out into piercing blue eyes. The pale face flushed from exertion. Their bodies pressed together, Damen could feel him trying to catch his breath.

A golden brow lifted, “You’re getting slow.”

“You put a hit out on me?” Damen asked.

“Now you look more important. How many agents can boast an assassination attempt?”

“Laurent,” Damen groaned.

“If I were actually here to kill you, you’d be dead. I know I’m the best but you should be more careful.”

“I was fairly certain it was you.”

“And what if it wasn’t? What were you going to do with that unloaded pistol?”

“You’re carrying around a paintball gun.” Damen released the rifle and so did Laurent. It fell and there were only clothes between them. “There’s a clip in my pocket,” Damen stated.

“That’s something I suppose. Now about your schedule—”

“I know,” Damen said, “I’ll work on that. What else am I doing wrong?”

“You haven’t kissed me yet,” Laurent said, blue eyes bright.

The handgun clattered to the ground. Damen pulled him close with a strong grip on the slim waist. Laurent’s lips parted and eyelashes dipped in anticipation of the kiss. Damen stroked a thumb along his jaw, briefly cementing the moment in his mind before he leaned in to take Laurent’s mouth. Laurent went to his toes, hands traveled up Damen’s arms to circle his neck and bring him closer. 

There was an urgency. A need. It had been too long. Damen couldn’t seem to hold Laurent close enough. He pressed him back into the wall and lifted him with hands beneath his thighs, bouncing him once for a steadier hold. Laurent assisted by wrapping legs around his waist. Damen reclaimed his mouth and Laurent made a soft sound, body arching into Damen’s.  

“I’ve missed you,” Damen breathed, his face turned into the slender neck. 

Laurent’s hands tangled in his hair, the grip almost painful with his fierce hold. “Fuck me,” he said.

“Here? On a rooftop?”

“Yes.”

“We can go to the apartment—”

“Now,” Laurent said, desperation roughening his voice.

“What about—”

Laurent moved his hips, just so, and the air escaped Damen. Leaning in with mouth against his ear he said, “I’ve already prepared.”

Damen nearly fell over. “Okay,” he choked.

—

As an internationally wanted assassin and government secret agent, they tried to not be seen together. Damen took a cab to the apartment. Laurent got there somehow. He was climbing through the window as Damen unlocked the door.

“Perhaps we should hire a maid.” Laurent swiped his fingers across the dusty desk. The apartment was only used when they were both in town, which wasn’t often, it could be a financial drain but was a more reliable hiding place than a hotel.

“Hey, get over here,” Damen said, throwing the blankets off the bed. Laurent complied, smiling as Damen pulled him down into the sheets. It was clumsy at first, with the same rushed need as the rooftop, but this time clothes were coming off. Laurent’s outfit was convoluted and frustrating like always.

“Do you think you’re Batman or something?” Damen grumbled after struggling with knee and elbow pads only to discover wrist sheaths complete with six-inch blades.

“I’d probably look good in a cape,” Laurent said, watching with amusement as Damen fought the buckles and straps. 

There was a pile of weapons when they were finished. Damen knew they would have to sort through them later. It would be very hard to explain how his government-issued firearms had ended up in the hands of an assassin.

—

“I missed you too.” Laurent languidly rolled onto his back, his voice thick with satisfaction.

“How long are you staying?” Damen asked, moving to kiss his bare shoulder.

“I have a plane tomorrow night.”

“That’s not long enough,” Damen groaned, dropping his head into Laurent’s neck.

“I know,” Laurent said, stroking Damen’s hair. “We have Paris in two months.”

“You’re not going to forget?”

“I didn’t forget about New York, I couldn’t make it and I’ve apologized a hundred times. Besides this is our anniversary.” Laurent lifted his hand into the sunlight filtering in through the window. He wore the gold woven band shaped to look like a laurel wreath. Damen's matching ring was worn on a chain around his neck. He wished he could wear it on his hand but no one knew he was married. 

“What’s the gift for five years?” Damen asked.

“Wood,” Laurent replied, still admiring his ring.

“I have that now,” Damen said, rolling over on top of him. 

Laurent snorted, unamused, “While I envy your stamina, you are lacking in wit.” He sat up pushing Damen off. “I need food.”

Once dinner was ordered and delivered, Laurent explained the new pink scar on his bicep and told of his recent adventure in Iceland. Damen suspected he downplayed the violence and danger.

“Where are you going after this?” Damen had settled in behind Laurent, hugging him to his chest face resting against the back of the blond head.

“Home. Briefly.”

“I haven’t been to France since—”

“Since you arrested me?”

“I was going to say since we met,” Damen said. “I didn’t technically arrest you.”

“No, you just cuffed me to a bed.”

“You were being a pain in the ass,” Damen laughed, absently running his knuckles along the naked pale thigh. 

Five years ago, Damen had been given the task of gathering evidence against a corrupt politician, only to constantly have Laurent in his way, even appearing as a waiter at a fundraising event. Threats of incarceration hadn’t frightened him away. At the time if Damen had known who Laurent really was he wouldn’t have simply used threats, but instead thought he was a lackey being used to distract Damen from his case. At the party, the mini-feud had escalated to Damen tying Laurent to a bed, which had escalated to something else. Laurent then shared a partial truth that the corrupt politician was his uncle and he was after him for personal vengeance. A tentative partnership had been formed and from there the chaos had only escalated, ending in a marriage.

For the agency, it was still an open case, and for Laurent, it was his main mission. He had even claimed he would retire afterward and made a joke about becoming a trophy wife. Damen wasn’t optimistic, Laurent liked his adventures and he secretly worried he couldn’t keep him entertained. 

They had fallen into a comfortable silence. While Damen petted Laurent, he removed the chain from Damen’s neck and slipped the ring onto his finger where it belonged. Laurent held his hand next to Damen’s comparing the bands while on the appropriate finger. Endeared by the quiet reverie, Damen held him a little closer.

Laurent turned in his arms, kneeling, face above Damen’s. The cool hands held his face, thumb caressing cheekbones. He looked into Damen’s face the same way he had admired the rings together. Gently he pressed a kiss to Damen’s forehead. The tenderness and adoration of it made Damen’s heart ache.

“I love you,” Laurent said it in his language before he kissed him.

Neither wanted to sleep when they’re time together was so brief, but it went by too quickly anyway and Laurent left the next evening.

—

Damen was sure he remembered there being a newspaper stand near the Eiffel Tower. When he found it, he bought the day's paper and flipped to the story he wanted. A few weeks ago it had been on the front page around the continent. Plane crash over the Meditteranean. Twenty-one dead, thirty-four survivors, six missing. Pictures of the six had made it into the media. After a time, three had been found alive, one dead, with two still missing. The images were still in circulation and Damen found them on page seven. He put a finger over the blond head printed in black and white. 

The face next to Laurent’s was also recognizable. It had been over five years now but Damen knew the flat-nose face of Govart, one of the uncle’s henchmen. It couldn’t be a coincidence. Two months ago, 4am, and wrapped in Damen’s arms Laurent had told him it was almost over, that he was close to finding his vengeance.

When the news first came out and Damen had seen the headline and photo of Laurent on the front page he had quit his job. Laurent was alive. Damen was certain and he would find him.

[ozu-teapot]

Damen i svart (The Lady in Black) | Arne Mattsson | 1958

The Lady in Black is the first of five “Hillman mystery” films directed by Arne Mattsson each with a colour in the title (Mannequin in Red, Rider in Blue, The White Lady, and The Yellow Car are the others) and introduces the husband and wife detective team of John and Kajsa Hillman (Karl-Arne Holmsten and Annalisa Ericson), their comedy sidekick assistant Freddy (Nils Hallberg), and subsequently his love interest, model Sonja Svensson (Lena Granhagen). The cinematography for this first installment is by Sven Nykvist.

The titular Lady in Black is a vengeful spirit which according to legend has appeared at various intervals over the past hundred years as a portent of doom for members of the von Schilden family, and wouldn’t you know it she’s rocked up again just as the Hillmans are supposed to be spending a relaxing holiday visiting Kajsa’s gal pal Inger von Schilden (Anita Björk). However as John says “I've never met a ghost that couldn't be explained” and the couple set out to solve the mystery of the Lady in Black and the ensuing deaths which follow in the wake of her visits.