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aaatruckfinder36 · 26 days ago

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Specialized Heavy Transportation: Essential for Mining Equipment Transport

Transporting large and heavy equipment, particularly mining equipment, requires specialized solutions to ensure safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Specialized heavy transportation is a critical component in sectors like mining, where oversized loads are common, and where traditional transport methods simply aren’t adequate. This article covers the key aspects of specialized heavy transportation and its role in mining equipment transport.

1. What is Specialized Heavy Transportation?

Specialized heavy transportation refers to the process of moving oversized, overweight, or exceptionally large equipment that cannot be transported by regular means. This type of transportation is essential for industries that use heavy machinery, like mining, construction, and energy. Unlike standard trucking, specialized heavy transport requires unique vehicles, highly skilled personnel, and meticulous planning to navigate both logistical and regulatory challenges.

In mining, for example, specialized transport moves equipment like excavators, bulldozers, drills, and haul trucks. Each piece of machinery is a massive, expensive asset that needs careful handling to avoid costly damage or delays.

2. Why is Specialized Heavy Transportation Important in Mining?

Mining companies rely on specialized transportation to move equipment safely from manufacturers to mining sites, as well as from one mine to another. Transporting mining equipment across remote or rugged terrain requires expertise, as well as vehicles built to carry heavy loads.

Preventing Equipment Damage

Mining equipment is costly, and damages during transportation can lead to substantial repair costs and project delays. Specialized transportation companies have the equipment, loading expertise, and transport protocols to ensure that mining machinery reaches its destination in optimal condition.

Complying with Regulations

Transporting oversized loads often involves navigating various state, federal, or international regulations. Specialized heavy transport providers have experience with these requirements, securing the necessary permits and coordinating with regulatory bodies. In mining regions, these regulations may include restrictions related to environmental protection and road safety, which a qualified transporter will manage.

3. Key Elements of Specialized Heavy Transportation

Specialized heavy transport requires careful planning, customized vehicles, and skilled professionals. Here’s what goes into a successful heavy transport operation:

Planning and Route Assessment

For oversized equipment, route assessment is critical. Specialized transport providers conduct thorough assessments to plan the safest, most efficient route for large loads, accounting for bridge weight limits, narrow roads, low-clearance areas, and traffic patterns. In remote mining areas, planning may also include coordination with local authorities for road closures or escort vehicles.

Specialized Equipment

Standard trucks are insufficient for carrying mining equipment. Specialized vehicles—such as lowboy trailers, multi-axle trailers, and heavy-duty trucks—are essential for supporting the massive weight of mining machinery. These vehicles are built to handle significant weight while maintaining stability, ensuring that equipment arrives undamaged.

Experienced Personnel

Skilled drivers and loading professionals are essential in specialized heavy transportation. Moving mining equipment often requires experienced personnel trained in securing and handling oversized loads to avoid accidents and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

4. The Role of Specialized Transportation Companies in Mining Equipment Transport

Specialized heavy transportation companies play a vital role in ensuring that mining companies have access to the equipment they need. Here’s how:

Efficient Transport Services: Heavy transportation companies use their expertise to minimize transport time and prevent downtime at the mining site.

Safety and Compliance: Specialized transport providers understand the complexities of heavy load regulations and safety requirements, reducing risks during transit.

Reduced Environmental Impact: Some transportation companies offer eco-friendly options, reducing emissions associated with transporting large machinery.

5. Choosing the Right Specialized Heavy Transportation Provider

Selecting a qualified transport provider is crucial to the safe, compliant, and efficient movement of mining equipment. Key factors to consider include:

Experience with Mining Equipment Transport: Seek out providers experienced in moving mining machinery, as they understand the unique challenges and best practices involved.

Equipment Availability: Confirm that the company has the necessary specialized vehicles and equipment to handle your specific transport needs.

Regulatory Knowledge: Choose a provider familiar with regional and international regulations regarding oversized load transport.

6. The Future of Specialized Heavy Transportation in Mining

With advances in automation and heavy-duty transport technology, specialized transportation will become even more efficient and eco-friendly. As the mining industry grows, specialized heavy transportation companies will continue to innovate, enabling faster and more cost-effective solutions for mining equipment transport.

Conclusion

Specialized heavy transportation is a cornerstone of the mining industry, enabling the safe and efficient movement of essential equipment. From route planning to regulatory compliance, specialized transport companies provide mining operators with peace of mind that their valuable machinery will arrive safely and on time. With an experienced provider, mining companies can focus on their core operations, knowing that transportation is in expert hands.

#heavy equipment freight #heavy equipment shipping #heavy equipment transportation services #machinery transport services #partial load trucking #specialized freight #specialized heavy transportation

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scatteredcloud · 2 months ago

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Going on yet another rant about “merch”

If you did not screen print that shirt yourself, you did not make it.

You made the design on it, which I’m sure would be a nice poster or sticker perhaps? Which of course you didn't print yourself, that sounds hard! An embroidered design? Maintaining a 12 needle embroidery machine capable of producing a design with that many colors for the number of orders being received is a lot of work, that's pretty impressive! Not to mention maintaining proper tension on the frame working with a hundred stretchy t shirts, which idk came from somewhere who knows! Your repeating pattern looks very nice on a skirt that you did not make and was mass produced by some Vietnamese person getting paid pennies so that ~50 gay people on the internet could pay for international shipping for a design you “made”. Wow that mug is awesome didn’t know you got into sublimation printing! And have a cylindrical heat press to be able to do not just mugs, but tumblers too! Woah your sublimation set up can do bed sheets (any size)? And shower curtains? And three different shapes of throw pillow stuffed with poly fill, which will never decompose and isn't comfortable to begin with?

Your poorly digitized vector art looks lovely as an enamel pin now that someone else (Who? More like who cares!) cleaned it up for you and then created moulds for and maybe even hand injected the enamel into only for you to sell maybe seven or eight of them. Aw damn your design got ripped off? Who could have guessed that with the distribution power of an entire manufacturing plafffnt that has hundreds, if not thousands of moulds sitting around that they might have used your mould to make themselves a profit for a change! Those money grubbing Chinese bastards! After all, you were there every step of the way, casting the negative of the mould, running the injection of liquid metal into that mould, mixing each color of enamel, and precisely filling each segment of the design, which you refused to simplify! You just can't compromise with art.

Ohhh I see they’re made to order so its more sustainable. So this factory (Guatemala? India? The Philippines? Pakistan? Could you point to it on a map? They just don't teach you this stuff in school!) Anyways this factory in some poor country has to keep your design on file, oh and for your enamel pins they have to keep the mould too! Ahh right but it’s sustainable, because it's a limited run. You’re the 100th person this week to place an order, and they're only printing 50 of your design, you should complain to the manufacturer about how slow your orders are being filled.

I love supporting small businesses - it’s just you after all! With all the hard work you’ve put into fiddling around in procreate who has time to figure out material acquisition, and production runs, and printer calibration, and inventory management, and machine maintenance, and payment processing, and international shipping, and packaging, and

#eaii #accidentally clicked on someones redbubble and they call it that because i started seeing red #i'm so fucking sick of this shit #look i think its great that people have more avenues to sell their art #but idk i feel like i'm crazy for thinking that should actually involve MAKING the art that they sell #the upfront investment is prohibitive I get it #but then connect with someone #preferably who lives on the same continent as you #to produce it locally #and like. a printer capable of printing nice stickers and posters is not like heavy duty machinery #again #expensive - sure #but i can almost guarantee that someone living in your city has a wide format printer they'd be willing to let you use #i make custom embroidered patches #im in the middle of building my own embroidery machine. obviously you do not have to do this #the machines that i use currently i borrow time on from someone else #'where do you get cute packaging?' i have brown paper envelopes that i decorate with washi tape and stamps which people seem to like #'how do you calculate shipping?' i don't usps does that for me #'what happens if an order gets lost?' it sucks and is inconvenient but i send them another one or refund their choice #'where do you get materials?' scrap fabric almost 100% of the time unless its a very custom order i spend very little on materials #i'm not asking anyone to reinvent payment services or whatever like if you want to use your neighbors printer and then sell those on etsy #great! thats what i do!#(and also fuck etsy - for different reasons)#but if you outsource the actual labor of producing the good that you are selling to easily exploitable people on the other side of the worl #im judging you. hard.

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vamshi11 · 2 months ago

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Exploring MS Plates: Varieties, Applications, and Their Design Impact with Top Brands from SteelonCall

Diverse Varieties of MS Plates

Mild Steel (MS) plates, celebrated for their robustness and adaptability, come in various types to suit different industrial and construction needs:

Standard MS Plates: These versatile plates are the go-to choice for general applications. Their balanced mix of strength and flexibility makes them ideal for structural supports, machinery parts, and general fabrication tasks.

High Strength Low Alloy (HSLA) Plates: Designed to offer enhanced strength without compromising weldability, HSLA plates are perfect for demanding applications. They are commonly used in heavy machinery, bridges, and other high-stress environments.

Corrosion-Resistant Plates: Coated or treated to withstand environmental wear, these plates are used in areas prone to moisture and chemicals. They are ideal for outdoor installations and marine applications where durability against corrosion is crucial.

Quenched and Tempered Plates: Through specific heat treatments, these plates gain exceptional hardness and impact resistance. They are utilized in heavy-duty machinery and equipment that require superior strength and durability.

Wide-Ranging Applications of MS Plates

The applications of MS plates span a diverse array of sectors, reflecting their integral role in modern industry and construction:

Construction: In construction, MS plates are essential for structural components like beams, columns, and reinforcements. They provide the necessary stability and strength for buildings, bridges, and infrastructure projects.

Manufacturing: The industrial sector relies on MS plates for machinery and equipment fabrication.

Automotive Industry: MS plates are used extensively in automotive production for vehicle bodies and chassis. Their strength and formability are key to producing safe and reliable automotive parts.

Shipbuilding: In the maritime industry, MS plates are fundamental in constructing ship hulls and decks.

Agricultural Equipment: MS plates are utilized in the production of agricultural machinery. Their toughness and ability to withstand heavy loads make them ideal for farming equipment.

Impact of MS Plates on Design Innovation

MS plates are not only functional but also inspire creative design solutions:

Architectural Innovation: In contemporary architecture, MS plates are often used for their sleek, industrial aesthetic. They feature prominently in building facades, decorative elements, and structural highlights, contributing to modern architectural styles.

Custom Fabrication: The flexibility of MS plates allows for custom designs and fabrications. From bespoke furniture to artistic installations, their ability to be cut, welded, and shaped supports unique and tailored design solutions.

Facade Solutions: For building facades, MS plates can create striking visual effects while providing durability. Various treatments and finishes offer designers flexibility in achieving distinctive and functional exterior designs.

Versatile Design Options: The range of finishes and treatments available for MS plates enables their use in diverse design contexts. This adaptability allows for integration into both interior and exterior designs, meeting varied aesthetic and functional requirements.

Premium MS Plates Available at SteelonCall

At SteelonCall, we offer a selection of high-quality MS plates from renowned brands, ensuring that you receive the best materials for your projects:

Vizag Steel: Renowned for its superior quality and reliable performance, Vizag Steel’s MS plates are ideal for a range of applications, providing both strength and durability.

SAIL: SAIL offers a wide array of MS plates known for their consistent quality and performance, suitable for various industrial and construction needs.

Jindal: Jindal’s MS plates are celebrated for their exceptional strength and resilience, making them a preferred choice for demanding applications in construction and manufacturing.

Conclusion

MS plates are a fundamental component in numerous industrial and construction applications, valued for their strength, versatility, and adaptability. At SteelonCall, we provide top-quality MS plates from leading brands like Vizag Steel, SAIL, and Jindal, complete with test certificates to ensure authenticity and performance. Whether you need MS plates for construction, manufacturing, or innovative design projects, our range of products meets your highest standards.

For the best prices and exceptional service, contact us at 08062212000 or visit our website at steeloncall.com. Discover how our premium MS plates can elevate your projects and meet your needs with excellence.

#MSPlates #SteelPlates #DesignInnovation #ConstructionMaterials #TopSteelBrands #SteelonCall #QualitySteel

#Diverse Varieties of MS Plates #Mild Steel (MS) plates #celebrated for their robustness and adaptability #come in various types to suit different industrial and construction needs:#Standard MS Plates: These versatile plates are the go-to choice for general applications. Their balanced mix of strength and flexibility ma #machinery parts #and general fabrication tasks.#High Strength Low Alloy (HSLA) Plates: Designed to offer enhanced strength without compromising weldability #HSLA plates are perfect for demanding applications. They are commonly used in heavy machinery #bridges #and other high-stress environments.#Corrosion-Resistant Plates: Coated or treated to withstand environmental wear #these plates are used in areas prone to moisture and chemicals. They are ideal for outdoor installations and marine applications where dura #Quenched and Tempered Plates: Through specific heat treatments #these plates gain exceptional hardness and impact resistance. They are utilized in heavy-duty machinery and equipment that require superior #Wide-Ranging Applications of MS Plates #The applications of MS plates span a diverse array of sectors #reflecting their integral role in modern industry and construction:#Construction: In construction #MS plates are essential for structural components like beams #columns #and reinforcements. They provide the necessary stability and strength for buildings #and infrastructure projects.#Manufacturing: The industrial sector relies on MS plates for machinery and equipment fabrication.#Automotive Industry: MS plates are used extensively in automotive production for vehicle bodies and chassis. Their strength and formability #Shipbuilding: In the maritime industry #MS plates are fundamental in constructing ship hulls and decks.#Agricultural Equipment: MS plates are utilized in the production of agricultural machinery. Their toughness and ability to withstand heavy #Impact of MS Plates on Design Innovation #MS plates are not only functional but also inspire creative design solutions:

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defensenow · 6 months ago

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premiertransporting · 1 year ago

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Reliable Shipping Companies for Heavy Equipment: Ensuring Secure and Efficient Transportation

When it comes to the transportation of heavy machinery, you need to rely on the expertise and services provided by reputable heavy machinery shipping companies. These companies specialize in handling the intricate process of transporting large and heavy equipment, ensuring that your valuable assets are securely and efficiently transported to their destination. Whether you are in need of domestic shipping within your country or international shipping across borders, partnering with a reliable heavy machinery shipping company is essential to guarantee a seamless and worry-free experience.

Transporting heavy machinery internationally involves a wide array of considerations and challenges. Reliable heavy machinery shipping companies have a deep understanding of the complexities involved in international logistics, including customs regulations, documentation requirements, and transportation logistics. Their extensive experience enables them to navigate through the intricate processes and ensure compliance with international trade regulations, saving you time, effort, and potential headaches associated with cross-border transportation.

Choosing the right heavy machinery shipping company is a critical decision that requires thorough research and evaluation. Look for a company with a proven track record of successfully handling different types of heavy machinery shipments. Consider their reputation in the industry and seek recommendations from peers who have had positive experiences with their services. A reliable shipping company should have the necessary infrastructure, resources, and expertise to handle the unique challenges associated with transporting heavy equipment.

Efficient handling and transportation are key strengths of reputable shipping companies. These companies employ skilled professionals who are trained in the proper loading, securing, and unloading of heavy machinery. They utilize specialized equipment, such as cranes, forklifts, and flatbed trailers, to handle heavy equipment with utmost care and precision. By adhering to industry best practices and safety standards, these professionals ensure that your machinery is transported securely and without any damages.

Moreover, reliable they understand the significance of proper packaging and securing methods to minimize the risk of damage during transit. They use high-quality materials and employ strategic packing techniques to safeguard your equipment from vibrations, impacts, and external elements. By paying meticulous attention to packaging details, these companies ensure that your heavy machinery arrives at its destination in pristine condition, ready for immediate use or installation.

In addition to their transportation services, reputable they may offer value-added solutions to enhance your shipping experience. These may include comprehensive insurance coverage options to protect your equipment against unforeseen events, such as accidents or damages during transit. Opting for insurance coverage provides an added layer of security and peace of mind, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business while knowing that your valuable assets are safeguarded.

When it comes to international shipping, reliable companies understand the importance of efficient communication and coordination. They have a well-established network of partners and agents worldwide, allowing them to handle the entire shipping process seamlessly. From organizing transportation to dealing with customs procedures and documentation, these companies ensure that every aspect of the international shipping process is handled with expertise and professionalism.

To summarize, partnering with a reliable company is crucial for the secure and efficient transportation of your valuable equipment. Their expertise in international logistics, adherence to safety protocols, and value-added services make them the ideal choice for handling your heavy machinery shipments. Take the time to thoroughly research and select a reputable shipping partner that aligns with your specific requirements, ensuring a smooth and successful shipping experience for your heavy machinery. With their support, you can rest assured that your heavy machinery will be transported with the utmost care, arriving at its destination safely and ready to serve its intended purpose.

#heavy machinery shipping companies

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digitalsanshta · 4 months ago

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Heavy Machinery Shipping: Your Comprehensive Guide by Mega Speed Cargo

In today’s global economy, industries rely on the seamless transport of heavy machinery to keep operations running smoothly. Whether it's for construction, mining, manufacturing, or agriculture, the movement of heavy equipment is critical. Mega Speed Cargo specializes in providing top-tier heavy machinery shipping services, ensuring that your valuable assets are transported safely and efficiently across the globe.

Why Choose Mega Speed Cargo for Heavy Machinery Shipping?

Mega Speed Cargo stands out as a leader in the logistics industry, offering a range of benefits for heavy machinery shipping:

Expertise and Experience

With years of experience in the logistics field, Mega Speed Cargo has honed its expertise in handling complex shipping requirements. Our team understands the intricacies involved in transporting heavy machinery, from loading and securing to customs clearance and delivery.

Specialized Equipment

Heavy machinery shipping requires specialized equipment to ensure safe and efficient transport. Mega Speed Cargo uses state-of-the-art machinery, including cranes, forklifts, and trailers, designed to handle oversized and overweight loads.

Customized Shipping Solutions

Every heavy machinery shipment is unique. Mega Speed Cargo provides customized shipping solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you need door-to-door service, port-to-port transport, or intermodal shipping, we have the flexibility to accommodate your requirements.

Global Network

Mega Speed Cargo boasts a robust global network, enabling us to ship heavy machinery to virtually any destination worldwide. Our strong relationships with international carriers and our knowledge of global shipping regulations ensure that your equipment reaches its destination on time and in perfect condition.

The Heavy Machinery Shipping Process

Shipping heavy machinery involves several critical steps. Here’s a comprehensive look at the process:

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment

The process begins with an in-depth consultation to understand your shipping needs. Our team will assess the type of machinery, dimensions, weight, and any special handling requirements.

2. Customized Shipping Plan

Based on the assessment, Mega Speed Cargo will develop a customized shipping plan. This plan outlines the best route, shipping method, equipment required, and a detailed timeline.

3. Preparing the Machinery

Proper preparation is crucial for safe transport. Our team will assist in disassembling large machinery, if necessary, and ensure that all parts are securely packed. We use high-quality materials to protect your equipment during transit.

4. Loading and Securing

Using specialized equipment, we carefully load and secure the machinery onto transport vehicles. Proper securing prevents shifting during transit, reducing the risk of damage.

5. Transport and Monitoring

During transport, Mega Speed Cargo continuously monitors the shipment. Our advanced tracking systems provide real-time updates, allowing you to track your equipment’s progress at any time.

6. Customs Clearance

Navigating customs can be complex, but our experienced team handles all the paperwork and compliance requirements. We ensure that your shipment meets all regulatory standards, avoiding delays and penalties.

7. Delivery and Unloading

Upon arrival at the destination, our team carefully unloads the machinery and reassembles it if required. We conduct a final inspection to ensure everything is in perfect condition.

Key Considerations for Heavy Machinery Shipping

When planning to ship heavy machinery, there are several important considerations to keep in mind:

Regulations and Permits

Different countries have varying regulations for transporting heavy machinery. Mega Speed Cargo stays abreast of these regulations and secures all necessary permits to ensure compliance.

Insurance

Given the value of heavy machinery, comprehensive insurance is essential. We offer insurance options that provide full coverage, giving you peace of mind during the shipping process.

Cost

Shipping heavy machinery can be expensive, but Mega Speed Cargo offers competitive pricing. Our transparent pricing structure ensures there are no hidden costs, and we work with you to find cost-effective solutions.

Timing

Proper planning and scheduling are crucial to meet project deadlines. We work diligently to ensure that your machinery arrives on time, coordinating all aspects of the shipping process.

Why Heavy Machinery Shipping Matters

Efficient heavy machinery shipping is vital for several reasons:

Minimizing Downtime

Delays in machinery arrival can lead to significant downtime and lost productivity. Mega Speed Cargo’s reliable services help minimize downtime, keeping your projects on track.

Safety and Reliability

Shipping heavy machinery safely is paramount. Our expertise and specialized equipment ensure that your machinery is handled with the utmost care, reducing the risk of damage.

Global Reach

As industries expand globally, the need for reliable shipping solutions grows. Mega Speed Cargo’s global reach ensures that you can transport your machinery to any corner of the world.

#Heavy Machinery Shipping #Machinery Shipping #Shipping #Shiping

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goldenfreightforwardingmarketing · 10 months ago

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Weathering the Storm: How Ocean Freight Handles Extreme Weather

In the dynamic world of global logistics, ocean freight forwarders like Golden Freight Forwarding & Marketing Company play a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless movement of goods across the seas. However, one of the significant challenges that sea freight forwarders face is dealing with extreme weather conditions. This blog explores how companies like ours manage these challenges while maintaining the integrity and timeliness of shipments.

The Impact of Extreme Weather on Ocean Freight: Ocean freight forwarders, like us at Golden Freight Forwarding & Marketing Company, play a pivotal role in charting the course for safe and efficient sea transportation. Our expertise lies in understanding the nuances of maritime logistics, enabling us to anticipate and mitigate the risks associated with extreme weather conditions.

Strategies Employed by Ocean Freight Forwarders: Advanced Weather Tracking Systems: Utilizing sophisticated weather monitoring technologies allows us to predict and prepare for adverse weather conditions. This proactive approach helps in rerouting ships to avoid the worst of the weather, ensuring the safety of both the cargo and crew.

Robust Contingency Planning: Our team develops comprehensive contingency plans for different types of extreme weather scenarios. This includes identifying alternate routes and ports to minimize disruptions.

Temperature-Controlled Shipping Services: For sensitive cargo, our temperature-controlled shipping services play a crucial role. These specialized containers ensure that even in the face of extreme temperature fluctuations, the quality of the products is not compromised.

Collaboration and Communication: Effective communication with all stakeholders, including port authorities, local weather stations, and clients, is vital. Keeping everyone informed about potential delays and changes in schedules helps in managing expectations and finding solutions.

Regular Training and Drills: Our crew undergoes regular training to prepare for emergency situations. Conducting drills for extreme weather conditions ensures that our team is ready to handle any situation with professionalism and efficiency.

As a leading freight shipping company, Golden Freight Forwarding & Marketing Company is committed to providing reliable and resilient ocean freight services, even in the face of extreme weather. Our strategies and dedication to safety and efficiency ensure that we not only weather the storm but also set new benchmarks in global shipping.

Discover how our ocean freight services can empower your logistics needs. Visit our website gffca.com for more information or to schedule a consultation with our logistics experts.

#freight forwarding company #logistics company in canada #freight forwarding solutions #freight international services #cargo logistics #global freight solutions #logistics company #freight forwarders near me #ltl & ftl trucking #cargo logistics canada #Warehosing & Distribution services #import export shipping company #Freight Broker #car parts shipping #heavy machinery transportation #heavy machinery shipping

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cuubism · 9 months ago

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i went to physical therapy for my stupid broken arm so as is my legal obligation i HAD to make ship content about it. everything is ship content that's how it is

cw injury, referenced abusive relationships

Hob's had plenty of clients come to physical therapy who clearly don't want to be there. Plenty of others who are reasonably frustrated by the work and time involved in regaining functioning after an injury. But this is the first time he's just had someone be... quiet. Resigned.

Dream sits with his hand cradled to his chest, barely speaking, only answering when Hob asks a direct question. He's reluctant to give Hob his hand when Hob asks if he can look at it, like he thinks Hob's grip is a bear trap that will snap down and crush the bones like whatever had done so the first time. Hob still doesn't know what that was. All he knows is the bones have been realigned and healed over but the dexterity in his hand still isn't right. That was what Dream had said, in the first spark of passion Hob had heard from him. It's not right.

But he does eventually give his hand over. His bones are so fine and delicate, and each movement hesitant. Cautious. Hob tests the flexibility. The strength. Dream is right, it's not where it should be. He still doesn't know what happened.

"I won't make you tell me if you really don't want to," Hob says gently. "But it is important to know how it happened to make sure we rehab it the right way. Did you get it caught in something? I've seen guys come in with machine injuries like that."

Nothing about Dream suggests "person who works with heavy machinery." But who knows. Hob will try not to stereotype.

"No," Dream says quietly, looking down and away from his hand like he can't bear to see it. "I. I am an artist. My ex... he felt that I cared more about my art than about him. Perhaps I did. And he was... frustrated. I suppose."

Hob can put the rest of the pieces together in his mind. "Jesus," he breathes, and Dream flinches.

"I have an unfortunate ability to involve myself with such people," he says.

"No, it's not your fault," Hob says automatically.

Dream narrows his eyes. "You presume to know that?"

Hob raises his hands in surrender. "Never mind. I won't pry." He's not Dream's therapist. His job is to help him with his hand, not... whatever else is going on in his life.

He takes Dream's hand carefully between both of his own again. Presses down lightly on his knuckles. "So. Crushed. Like that?"

Dream nods. Hob still doesn't know all the details, but he's imagining a boot going down hard on the top of Dream's hand. The thought is sickening.

"Can you fix it?" Dream asks, like he doesn't dare to hope.

"Well, you already had it repaired surgically, yeah?" Hob says. This strikes him as a bit of good luck--hand fractures are not simple--but he doesn't want to undercut Dream's confidence even further by saying so. He's usually pretty good at reading his clients, and he's already sensing that Dream is holding onto his determination to be here at all by the barest thread. Best to build him up as much as possible. "So it's just a matter of strengthening the muscles again."

He's fairly confident he can get him back to a usual level of functioning with it. The question is whether he can return him to the specific level of dexterity he needs for his art. He doesn't say that. Not yet.

Finally, he gets the tiniest of smiles out of Dream. He's really lovely when he smiles.

(He's pretty when he doesn't smile, too. Hob would have to be blind not to notice it.)

"So," Hob says. "Let's look at the current range of motion, yeah?"

Dream tilts his head. "Did you not already do so?"

"For regular motion, yeah. But I want to see where it's impacting your drawing."

Dream draws his hand back, looking uncertain.

"Come on." Hob hands him a pen and paper. "Show me. I promise I know nothing about art. If it's not up to your usual standards, I'm not going to be able to tell."

Finally, Dream takes the pen, and starts sketching.

Hob watches, noting the way his hand trembles, his uneven grip on the pen. Notes how quickly he gets demoralized when it doesn't turn out the way he wants. Hob can make out what he's written and drawn, but it's clear from Dream's expression that it's far from how it's supposed to be.

"This is just a starting point," Hob reminds him. He has a feeling he's going to be doing a lot of those sorts of reminders with Dream; he does not seem to find optimism easy.

Then again, if someone who supposedly loved him had hurt him like that, Hob would probably find optimism a bit difficult, too.

Finally, Dream drops the pen, clearly frustrated. "I have tried to paint at home, too. It has not turned out any better. You should throw those away." He gestures to the sketches. "They are terrible."

"Nah, I'm gonna keep them," Hob says, and puts them in his folder. "For comparison later." It could also partially be because he finds Dream's drawings of cats, imperfect as they are, charming. Sue him.

"As you insist," Dream says.

Hob gives him documentation on some other exercises he can do at home. Tries to think through what might make him feel better with his art. It feels, somehow, so important to make him feel better.

"At home, go easy on trying to use a pen, or paintbrush or whatever, it's hard on your hand," he finally says. "But you probably want to get back to your art, so-- okay, don't make fun of me if this is stupid."

Dream just raises an eyebrow, waiting.

Maybe Hob should try to learn more about art before he gives advice. Nevertheless, he forges on. "Holding a pen is tough, but if you wanted to like, finger paint or something? That would probably be fine. Might be good for flexibility, even."

"Finger paint," Dream repeats, enunciating each word.

"I told you not to make fun of me if it was stupid."

Dream smiles, just a small thing, like he finds Hob ridiculous but in a charming way. Good enough, Hob figures.

"Very well," Dream says at last. "I will take your advice."

Dream simply walking out had felt like a distinct possibility, so Hob will take this as a win.

"Hey," he says later, catching Dream for a moment as he's checking him out. "It's going to get better, yeah? Trust me. Don't worry too hard, just give it time."

He really shouldn't make promises like that. But he can't seem to help it, with Dream.

Dream considers, then says. "I do trust you."

Hob finds that it means a lot. Now he's just going to have to earn it.

#i really am writing the most random indulgent shit this week XD #you know this was a missed opportunity to do 'forbidden romance between a physical therapist and a ballerina' like that ridiculous romance #novel that was going around XD #anyway don't take physical therapy advice from this #dreamling #dream of the endless #hob gadling #my writing #cw abuse #long post #perhaps i'll write more after my next appointment XD #physical therapy fic

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stareaterau · 9 months ago

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Chapter 1 episode 4

←Previous episode

Next episode→

Index

---

Time for some new characters perhaps?

CW: description of pain

Read below↓

Or AO3

Etho is relieved to finally have a moment of peace from that incessant beeping. It’s been driving him insane from the moment he woke up, surrounded by heaps of twisted and mangled space debris. Impact crates sat all around him, filled in and covered with the – barely recognisable – remains of old battleships. With some smug satisfaction, he’d spotted what was left of countless Vindicator insignias. They were marked on their dented hulls and scattered supply crates, their paint scraped away over time. The beeping had been increasing steadily, as Etho traipsed across the sand-swept wreckage, reverberating around his head in a way that made him worried that he’d suddenly developed a strange form of tinnitus… not that he hadn’t already been developing it for years thanks to his constant exposure to loud machinery. But now – as he approaches the rusting wreckage of a massive spaceship that rests, standing like a beacon, nestled atop a mound of its mangled brethren, its form surprisingly intact save for the side of its hull, the once sturdy metal gored open – the silence is deafening. After having grown accustomed to the constant beeps, the absence of noise is almost overwhelming.

Etho hoists himself up and over the mangled opening in the ship, grateful that his gloves prove to be enough protection against the likely scalding metal. He breathes a sigh of relief as his heavy boots thud onto the dusty metal flooring inside the wreckage. The cooler air hitting him immediately. The insulated walls and dim metal halls of the ship create a welcome reprieve after the blazing heat of the desert outside. Etho is not dressed for this sun, since the dark fabric and fluffy interior of his jacket are more suitable for the chill of space. Maybe if he’d known that he’d find himself waking up in a strange desert, he’d have actually dressed for the occasion. He pulls his hood down, shaking the sand from his clothes, finally protected from the wind as it peppers the landscape outside with sand.

Etho stretches, his long limbs cracking. With a sigh, he looks around the room he climbed into. It looks like some kind of barrack. Uncomfortable uniform beds line the walls and old, musty bedding lays strewn about the room. He grimaces. Those blankets look scratchy as hell. Despite his initial disgust, Etho would probably be tempted to pick one of the beds and not get up for days if they weren’t also covered in sand that had blown in through the fissures in the ship's wall caused by its crash landing, years ago. He assumes it was years ago, at least, considering the rust and the sand that has made itself home in every possible corner.

He walks out into the corridor, brightened by long strips of broken lights stretching down the hall in either direction. Tangled and fraying wiring hangs down from the ceiling, the panelling that was meant to hide them likely thrown and forgotten somewhere during the ship's rough descent. A ship like this should have plenty of rooms that could prove far more useful than a dusty dorm room. If he’s lucky it may even have a stocked storage room. The ship's crew certainly wouldn’t have run out of rations before their unexpected demise.

Etho turns right, padding down the hallway, periodically peering through the occasional unlocked door as he passes by, each one leading into increasingly dark and dingy rooms.The corridor leads him deeper into the belly of the ship, further away from the blazing sun’s reach. The interiors sit dusty, undisturbed and utterly useless. Not a single one appears to contain anything of use to Etho unless he wants to try and sleep on some of the sandiest beds he’s ever seen. He just woke up not even an hour ago, sleeping right now might be a bit overkill… and not all that useful. He needs supplies, food, anything. A weapon of some sort would be nice too, he doesn’t trust this dump to be as empty and dead as it looks on the surface. A planet with breathable air like this would surely have some inhabitants, no matter how harsh the living conditions. Hell, a blaze would probably thrive in this heat. Their dense fur and high body temperature would protect them from the worst the desert has to offer.

The thumps of heavy boots against the grated metal echo down the corridor. Etho’s careful steps do little to lessen the noise as the rusted hull groans in response to his presence. His tail drags behind him, through the sand and dust that litters the hall, pale white scales and grey-tinged fur drawing lines on the ground as he roams the winding halls.

He comes up to a split in the path… or well, it’s not much of a split. The corridor that should veer off to the right comes to a quick end, its flooring having collapsed in on itself, broken pipes and tangled wires hanging down from the ceiling. The floor is caved in on itself, twisted metal sloping down into the pitch-black pit that is the lower floors. Etho cringes at the creaking sound of metal that echos out of the hole. He doesn’t want to think about the strain the weight of the crashed vessel is causing on its fractured hull. The last thing he wants is to be trapped in this hunk of junk if its supports give way.

Deciding he’d rather not risk catching himself on the jagged metal… or falling void-knows how far down the dark pit. Etho, instead, turns left and ventures down the more intact corridor. At least there’s far less sand this way. Although Etho suspects the damage has already been done, he’ll be finding those persistent grains for months. Years, even. The lights above flicker sporadically – or at least the few that managed to survive the years in one piece – combating the increasing darkness with their cold, dim fluorescence.

Etho pauses, reaching up to flick one of the long bulbs as it fades out, causing it to sputter back to life for just a moment before dying out once again. Etho realises with a start that the ship must still have a functioning power source somewhere, Etho realises. It might not have much life left in it if these half-dead lights are anything to go off, but it’s better than nothing. This ship might still have some useful parts lying around. Etho could try fashioning… something from the scraps. Something that could help him get off this dead planet, or at least send some kind of distress signal, with the hopes that someone, anyone is close enough to hear it.

He’ll take anything that might prove useful while he figures out where he is. It’s better than his current lack of possessions. He’d had nothing on him when he woke up, which, concerningly, was not how he’d been before. Etho never left home without at least a knife or two, preferably a gun too. He’s not stupid. The last thing he wants is to be cornered by some Vindicator grunt without any means of defending himself. He’d never hear the end of it.

But, for now, it’ll probably just be nice to have shelter with some shoddy lights. While sleeping under the stars doesn’t sound too unpleasant, sleeping on trash in a sandstorm definitely does.

Etho picks up his pace. He can at least assess the damage to the ship's redstone if he can find the engine room. Until he knows what supplies he’s working with he can’t properly plan his next move. The thought makes him shudder. Being stranded in the middle of nowhere, with no clue where he is, no memory of how he got here, and no plan sounds like, quite possibly, the worst combination. Hell, graveyard planets aren’t typically in inhabited solar systems…if he’s really that far from civilisation, he’s fucked. The sooner he can figure out a plan of action the better.

Rounding a corner, the corridor quickly comes to an end. Standing in front of him is exactly what he had been hoping for. Another doorway the door itself, thankfully, resting mostly open. Albeit disconnected from the track that would usually enable its closure. Beyond its frame, flickering lights illuminate a room lined with control panels and overturned chairs. Lights pulse faintly behind dusty buttons and screens and wires stretch across the floor, twisting over and tangling with one another. He’s found the cockpit.

Etho grins behind his mask, the slight crinkle of his eyes the only sliver of emotion displayed for the lonely wreck. He cracks his knuckles before making his way over to the closest control panel.

He pauses for a moment, eyes narrowed in thought and hands hovering over the rusted controls. He never actually checked if he’s truly alone in this place. Glancing around the room again shows no more signs of life than his first inspection. He hadn’t noticed footprints at any point in his journey so far. Void knows there’s enough sand everywhere for them to show up. He’s well and truly alone.

Giving in to curiosity, he cracks open the console, prying off the loose screen, exposing the guts of the ship inside. Looking through the rusty parts, he investigates the state they’re in, hoping that any of the individual parts can prove useful. Who knows, maybe he can get the engine up and running and get out of here… it doesn’t look like it though. Holding up a particularly rusted part, Etho scowls, tossing it onto the metal flooring behind him with a loud clang. He continues to rummage through the mechanisms of the ship, anything unusable – which proves to be most of it – getting tossed, carelessly to the side with a loud clunk.

“...Oh, what the heck?”

Etho jolts at the voice behind him. Dropping the rusted redstone comparator he had been holding, in surprise. Spinning on his heels, Etho’s eyes land on a figure standing in the doorway, their face scrunched up in a frustrated scowl. They look like some sort of glare-blaze hybrid, judging by the green feathers scattering the right side of their face and the brown markings that tint their brow and the tips of their ears. The tips of their fingers are coated in that same brown, the point where the markings merge back into their paler skin tone hidden behind a pair of padded fingerless gloves. Etho notes, however, the figure's distinct lack of a tail, his own flicking to the side subconsciously. They’re dressed in a cuffed t-shirt and baggy, padded trousers. A singular grey knee pad is strapped to their right leg, though how much that would help them if they fell onto their other knee Etho is not sure. Their deep, dark eyes lock onto Etho. Huge, pure-black pupils boaring into him.

“Uhhh-” Etho stares, dumbstruck at his unexpected visitor. He'd been so sure that he was alone here. The metal dunes outside had betrayed no signs of life. All the ships look like they’d crashed into the planet, their hulls cracked and bent from the impact. It’s unlikely that any of their passengers survived.

“Who the hell are you?” The glare furrows his brow further, pointing an accusatory finger towards Etho. “What are you doing to my ship?”

“...Your ship?”

The stranger scoffs, seemingly offended at the insinuation that this mangled spaceship isn’t clearly his. “Yes, my ship! I found it first!”

Etho rolls his eyes at the childish nature of the argument, there’s no way of knowing who had actually seen it first. It's not exactly hard to spot. The massive ship stands like a beacon atop the mounds of twisted metal, it could probably be seen for miles across the ship graveyard.

“I saw it the second I woke up here,” Etho counters, throwing out a bit more information than he’d usually feel comfortable with, testing the glare's response. They don’t react.

Their brows remain just as furrowed, eyes just as piercing. A couple of seconds pass before their mouth contorts into an annoyed snarl. A small scar cuts across their lip, a gap in their teeth replacing the fang that should rest just behind it… Huh.

Etho runs a hand down his mask. He hadn’t realised that the stranger isn’t wearing one, nor a helmet. The air here must be safe to breathe. He decides against removing it for now, though. Maybe they just hadn’t dropped dead yet.

“Yeah, me too! You’re not special!” The other replies, crossing his arms. Etho frowns, the two sides of his split jaw grinding together slightly, behind his mask, in thought. So they had woken up here too, he concludes. They’re probably just as in the dark as he is, lashing out due to the fear of being lost on some graveyard planet with no idea how they got here… Or maybe they’re just like this.

“...I’m the one in the cockpit though.”

“You’re tearing the cockpit apart!” The stranger complains, striding over to a broken comparator, one of the many engine components Etho had scattered across the cockpit floor. They pick it up and twirl it in their hand, glowering at the state of it. Rust rubbing off the metal, staining their fingertips a ruddy orange.

Their dark eyes turn back to Etho, scrutinising him with their gaze. A mischievous glint crosses their face. They give the engine piece one last spin in their hand, before tossing it right at Etho. Hitting him square in the shoulder, the rusted metal cracking as it clatters back onto the ground by Etho's feet. “Ow- Thanks…” he murmurs

“It’s not gonna fly anyway,” he adds, brushing away a spot of rust from where the metal had bounced off his padded jacket.

“I can make it work!”

“Can you?” Etho raises a brow, he’s sceptical anyone would be able to fix a ship in this much disrepair, especially not this guy. They look like they’re more likely to blow up a ship than they are to fix one. The only thing this wreck is good for is shelter and spare parts.

“YES!” the stranger argues, their face contorted into an offended scoff. “GET OUT! FIND YOUR OWN SHIP!”

Etho stands up from where he knelt, hunched over the control panel. He wipes his hands on his trousers, leaving a smear of oil and rust behind on the green fabric. "…Fine, ‘s nothin’ useful here anyway. It’s a rusty mess.”

That only seems to rile the glare up further. Their green feathers bristle, standing on end, and a slight puff of smoke spills from their mouth as they huff angrily.

“IT’S NOT A RUSTY MESS! IT’S MY SHIP!”

Etho, paying their outburst no mind, strides over to where the glare still stands, blocking the doorway with their broad frame. Etho tilts his head, as he looks them up and down, sizing up the shorter, angrier man. They just glare back up at him in response. He snorts.

“Mhm, sure,” Etho finally responds, a sarcastic drawl to his voice. He pushes past them, knocking the stranger out of the way with his shoulder. They stumble to the side, letting out an offended squawk as Etho heads back down the dark corridor of the ship. He smirks at their reaction. Void that guy is full of themself.

If they want this ship so bad they can have it, it's not worth fighting over.

Maybe if he’s quick, Etho can find another, mostly, intact ship to seek shelter in before the sun sets. Preferably one where he won’t have to share with some obnoxious blaze-glare hybrid.

The gash in the ship wall he had climbed through proves easy to find again, thanks to the way it tears through room after room. He picks a door and makes his way through what looks like the remains of a small botany nursery. The plants that had once grown here would’ve helped to generate for the ship's crew back when it was still being maintained, but now it sits in disrepair. Its foliage withered and dry from neglect, the glass of their terrariums shattered and scattered across the ground. The only sign of life this room has to offer now comes in the form of a tiny, sandy rat, no bigger than Etho’s palm, sitting in a dusty plant pot. Though, it seems mostly unbothered by the enderian's sudden appearance, the shrivelled stick of a plant that it's digging its teeth into is clearly more important. Beady eyes follow as he picks his way through the overturned interior, careful to avoid the sharp shards of glass, even if it’s unlikely it would be able to puncture his boot's thick soles.

He doesn’t even need to climb over the jagged metal this time, the whole exterior wall is ripped out from top to bottom. The gnarled, torn edges of the floor and remaining walls the only evidence such a wall ever existed in the first place. Instead, he lowers himself and jumps down, landing with a clatter on the scrap metal ground outside.

The sun still beats down on the metal mounds surrounding him, the old wrecks sizzling from the heat. The topography shifts and ripples behind the torrid air. Etho blinks and holds his hand up to shelter his eyes as the metallic landscape reflects the bright light at him from every direction. He had not missed this, the ship had been stuffy, but it was at least sheltered from the worst of the heat. Etho had better find another shelter soon, he decides. Especially as the sun has now dipped far lower in the sky than it was before. He’d rather not be wandering the wasteland at night, at least not until he can assess how safe this planet really is.

Etho readjusts his mask – breathing in dust cloud after dust cloud probably won’t be great for his lungs – before beginning his descent down the mound. His pace is slow and careful as the scrap below his feet shifts and dislodges from its capricious position. Each step sends small waves of metal debris scattering down the hill ahead of him. It’s not the quietest of descents, but Etho can’t bring it in himself to care. Not when he’s already met and fallen out with, who is likely, the only person for miles.

He takes a deep breath before continuing.

The whistle of wind rushing through the trash peaks almost disguises a building ringing in his ears, the constant note mostly fading out into the background when he pays it no heed. Shaking his head, Etho groans. He almost misses the beeping.

He really should look into what had caused that… as soon as he finds himself somewhere safe to settle for the night. It’s far too risky to stay out in the open with the sun rapidly sinking in the sky. Not while he doesn’t know what kinds of wildlife might call this place home, and going back to the security of that ship is clearly a no-go.

The hairs on the back of his on the back of his neck stand up as a staticky sensation dances across his skin. Etho furrows his brow. That’s just another reason to find shelter. The last thing he wants is to get caught out in a thunderstorm. But, as he glances at the vast, cloudless sky, it holds no sign of a coming storm

Etho reaches the bottom of the metal mound, luckily only almost losing his footing once or twice. The moment his boot meets the sandy ground the ringing solidifies into something real, something vicious and sharp. He stumbles. It feels like hands are reaching into the deepest parts of his soul and wrapping their hands around his heart.

With another step electricity surges through his body. Etho buckles over, every nerve set alight in white-hot pain. A hook is driven through his heart. Etho bites his tongue. The hands pull.

His vision turns white.

Then red.

Etho keels over. His mind struggles for coherency as he clutches his chest.

He rips his mask off, struggling for breath as a haze settles over the world. Thick and suffocating. Shrouding the landscape around him until all he can see is his own shaking hands and the shipwreck, looming above him, mockingly.

A desperate resolve washes over him.

He needs to get back. It hurts to breathe and he needs to get back.

The ship is safe. It’s walls and shelter and shade and it’s safe. And there is absolutely room for two. Despite that glare’s adamant claims.

They don't need all that space.

Etho found it too.

They can share.

It’s massive.

He can easily stay there without even running into them once.

And it hurts.

And he can't think.

And the world is spinning.

And he's clambering back over the gnarled ship wall. His clothes snagging on the jagged edge. The thud of his knees, connecting hard with the floor, echoing through his bones.

Relief washes over him. The strain on his heart easing slowly as he staggers back into the welcoming shade. With a huff, he slumps down in the ship's corridor as colours aside from the ruddy hue bleed back into the world.

Etho’s not sure how long he sits there, on the hard floor of the ship corridor, gathering his breath. The cool metal of the ship wall presses against his back, grounding him as his head slowly stops spinning.

But he’s not alone as he gathers his thoughts. Movement catches his eye as, across the hall, that small rat scurries into view, its dried-up twig abandoned. Beady eyes meet his own, unblinking as Etho stills, not wanting to scare the critter away. It’s nice to have some company that won’t attack him for daring to breathe the same air… hopefully.

Its pale, sandy fur stands out in stark contrast against the dark, grey colouration of the ship. He’s caught similar vermin hiding in the dark corners of his own ship before, but they had looked different. Their ears had been shorter and stubbier, their fur dull and grey to match their surroundings. Etho’s not exactly an expert on alien fauna, but if this planet is as uninhabited as it looks then the small rodent might actually be undiscovered. He watches as it slowly relaxes and begins to clean its long whiskers with its paws. It’s kind of cute. Maybe if he captures it and makes it off this forsaken planet he’ll be able to name the species. He’ll probably name it something scary. Like taxes.

Not that aiding scientific exploration should be his priority right now. He’s more likely to cook up and eat the rodent if he actually catches it. Food will probably be scarce in this desert junkyard, and Etho is awfully fond of not starving to death… besides, he’s probably eaten worse.

“You coulda leant a hand y’know.” Great, now he’s talking to a weird rat.

He drops his head back against the wall, inhaling sharply as the impact sends a jolt of pain reverberating around his, already aching, skull. Closing his eyes, he digs the palms of his hands into them. Today is going great so far. At least the beeping still hasn’t come back, hopefully, it’s gone for good now. Etho doesn’t want to imagine trying to think with both the beeping and fuzzy disorientation from whatever the hell that was, overwhelming his brain.

The only sound is the wind outside as it whistles through the cracks marring the ship's hull. It blows roughly through the rooms that are unlucky enough to share that exterior wall, creating a dull, rhythmic thrum, slowly getting louder as it echoes through the halls and – oh, that’s footsteps, Etho realises. Great.

The glare rounds the corner, dark eyes immediately landing on Etho. A scowl crosses their face. They’re clearly just as pleased to see Etho as he is to see them. Taxes scampers off, diving through a grate in the wall, at the sight of the other figure. Etho’s never wished he could follow a rodent quite as much as he does now.

“I thought you were leaving.” They plant their hands on their hips, eyes narrowing as they scowl down at Etho.

“Mm, I tried. Didn’t go so well.” Etho frowns, tearing his eyes away from the hole the rodent had vanished into.

He takes in the glare’s appearance. They look scruffier than before. Their hair is unkempt – well, more unkempt – it falls over their face in messy strands, green and brown mixing together in a muddy tangle. The green feathers scattered across their face are puffed up and dishevelled and their breathing is heavy. What had they been doing after Etho left?

“Huh? What do you mean you ‘tried’?” They ask, making quotation marks with their fingers to emphasise their point. An incredulous tone laces their voice. “Just walk away and find your own ship. It’s not hard!”

Just to complete their point, the glare strides forward in a mock impersonation of Etho’s own pace, coming to a stop in front of the enderian. They scowl down at him, not even trying to hide their distaste. If anything they’re exaggerating it. They place their hands on their hips in, what looks to be, an authoritative manner.

Etho rolls his eyes. It’s nice to know he’s stuck in this place with someone mature. “You try if you think it’s so easy.”

A childish part of Etho, that he’s not so proud of, hopes that the same thing will happen to the glare if they leave the ship. But then again, if that… sensation was indeed a product of trying to leave the wreck, instead of just a freak incident, that might mean he’s stuck with this guy. A thought that fills Etho with dread… It would be worth it to get back at them for taunting him, though.

“To… walk out the door?” They narrow their eyes, trying to figure out just what Etho’s playing at. Ethos face betrays no ulterior motives, though. Even with his mask discarded on the ground, his expressions exposed.

Etho nods. “Mhm. Bet you can’t do it.”

“Bet I can!”

That was easy… they’re way too eager to be right.

Etho pauses to think. If the beeping stopped when he reached this ship then this is clearly where it had been leading him. Etho wouldn’t be surprised if someone had put a chip of some sort in him before abandoning him in this wasteland… it wouldn’t actually be the first time. That could explain the beeping. It might even be the reason for what he just felt too. If that is the case, the glare is probably here for the same reason. Etho’s willing to bet they’ll feel the exact same thing. He’s also willing to bet that they wouldn’t believe him if he tried to tell them.

“How about this? You get the ship to yourself if you can get, mmm, 10 yards from it- the bottom of the mound. If you can’t,” He looks the glare directly in the eye, the inky voids returning an increasingly confused stare. ”It’s mine to scavenge for parts.”

They narrow their eyes, trying to parse Ethos logic. That’s not exactly a hard ask. “You’ll… leave me and this ship alone if I… walk… down a hill.”

“Mhm,” he nods.

The glare pauses. The last thing they want is their ‘beautiful’ ship torn to pieces for parts. What’s the point in finding shelter if you don’t pick the grandest option there is, damn it. This wager is objectively the stupidest thing they’ve ever heard, there’s no feasible way to actually lose it. They smirk.

“Your loss. Easiest bet I’ve ever made! Watch and learn!”

The glare turns on his heels, marching out of the hall with purpose. The sound of their footsteps echoing, loudly down the halls of the ship.

Etho relaxes slightly as the glare disappears from view. He leans back against the wall, mind still buzzing. The cool metal grounding him in place.

He waits. Anticipation slowly building.

The faint sound of metal sliding and clattering from the glare’s heavy steps meets his ears. Etho chuckles. They’re clearly not the stealthy type.

Etho’s amusement quickly dies down as a familiar tightness settles in his chest. He grimaces and steadies himself as he braces for round two as the ringing takes hold and the world falls to red.

He really hopes this isn’t going to be a recurring condition.

A distant yelp echos through the ship – shrill and startled – as the glare concedes their bet.

Etho breathes in a sharp breath as his heart tugs on its bindings. Vindication bleeding into his mind, through the gaps of his thoughts and pain.

He should leave the ship. Meet the glare on their ascent back up the shrapnel hill.

They might need help.

No.

They’ll come to him.

Etho waits. His mind slowly returning to its usual state.

He hears them before he sees them, their angry grumbles and stomps telling Etho all he needs to know about how they’re feeling.

They storm back into the corridor. Stumbling slightly as they steady themselves with a hand on the wall.

Wild eyes lock onto Etho. A fire burns deep inside, shining brightly through their pupils like a feral animal reflecting light in the night.

“WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?”

Their face contorts in a furious expression, as even more smoke billows out of their mouth than earlier. Etho wonders how much he can get them to do that.

“Told you.” A smug expression crosses Etho’s face.

“TOLD M- WHA- HUH- WHAT THE HECK?” The glare splutters, more smoke spills out of their mouth with each rapid breath.

“Just walk away, it's not hard,” Etho taunts, doing a poor imitation of the other, smirking as their face scrunches up in annoyance.

“...I’m gonna kill you,” they spit, marching up to Etho, their fists balled stiffly at their sides,

“You can tr- ohHH ACK HEY!”

#stareater au #life series au #ethoslab #joel smallishbeans #boat boys #trafficblr #cw pain

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