#i accept no liability for any damage caused by this post

[ravenkings]

OK I saw your post about fucked up media . I agree , now share your most loved fucked up media 🎤

okay, this is a VERY broad question, especially since "fucked up" can mean many different things!!!! i'll try to break it down but i am 100% going to miss some stuff. (also this list is based on media with what i consider to be high levels of "transgression", since most things i like would be considered a little fucked up by most people so i had to narrow it down somehow lmao)

movies

the silence of the lambs

eyes wide shut

titane

the night porter

the wolf house

the devils

quills

hellraiser

videodrome

the piano teacher

possession

the wicker man

phantom thread

oldboy

sympathy for lady vengeance

midsommar

blue velvet

gone girl

tv shows/anime (i need to watch more tv btw)

neon genesis evangelion (+ end of evangelion)

penny dreadful

hannibal (strictly season 1 though bc i have beef with the rest of it)

succession (bc imo it IS a fucked up horror story)

broadchurch

utopia (british series)

twin peaks

the young pope

paprika

books/graphic novels

lolita by vladimir nabokov

justine by the marquis de sade

philosophy in the bedroom by the marquis de sade

the piano teacher by elfriede jelinek

the driver's seat by muriel spark

uzumaki by junji ito

à rebours (against nature) by j.k. huysmans

the hellbound heart by clive barker

erotism: death and sensuality by georges bataille

exemplary departures by gabrielle wittkop

murder most serene by gabrielle wittkop

story of the eye by georges bataille

my year of rest and relaxation by ottessa moshfegh

no longer human by osamu dazai

songs of a dead dreamer and grimscribe by thomas ligotti

the infernal desire machines of doctor hoffman by angela carter

the bloody chamber by angela carter

we have always lived in the castle by shirley jackson

wise children by angela carter

the trial by franz kafka

the idiot by fyodor dostoevsky

the brothers karamazov by fyodor dostoevsky

[gallifreyinstituteforlearning]

Okay, so I'm seeing this post re: damages caused by one Gallifreyan who had a bit too much of the Canada Dry before switching to booze,

Say the things that Gallifreyan who shall not be named, for liability purposes, were to be covered under this insurance plan. What kind of compensation would be expected? The Doc--I mean the Gallifreyan who shall not be named never seemed to know that much about money.

In this scenario where a Gallifreyan caused damages but was hypothetically covered under a policy, the compensation would typically be structured to address the specific nature and extent of the damages incurred.

Given the unique circumstances involving interspecies communication, the compensation would likely include:

Repair and Restoration: This would involve full support of the Gallifreyan Embassy nearest to the Sol sector for the repair or restoration of the affected Earth property. This could be achieved through temporal manipulation or financial reimbursement. Any monetary compensation would be dispensed in either Earth currency or a universally accepted galactic currency, easily exchangeable within the Sol sector.

Compensation for Inconvenience: Additional recompense, monetary or equivalent, would be considered for any inconvenience or disruption attributable to the incident.

Special Considerations: Acknowledging the possibility that the Gallifreyan in question may lack familiarity with Earth's monetary systems, alternative forms of compensation, such as technological assistance or other beneficial aids, might be provided.

It is important to note that each claim would be assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the specific details and complexities of the incident.

This outline is intended to clarify the potential scope of coverage and compensation under such exceptional circumstances. However, it's important to reiterate that current policies do not extend coverage to Earth, and thus, regrettably, claims for incidents occurring there would not be eligible.

》📫Got a question / submission? 》😆Jokes |🫀Biology |🗨️Language |🕰️Throwbacks |🤓Facts 》📚Complete list of Q+A 》📜Masterpost If you like what GIL does, please consider buying a coffee or tipping below to help make future projects, including complete biology and language guides.

[brandon-ritchie]

Important Advice on How to Communicate with Insurance Companies After an Accident

Dealing with an insurance company after an accident can be a stressful and complex process. Knowing what to expect and how to handle each step can significantly affect the outcome of claim. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, so being well-prepared and informed is crucial. This article will explore key strategies for dealing with insurance companies after an accident to help you protect your interests and receive fair compensation.

Report the Accident Immediately

The first step after an accident is to notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurance policies include a requirement to report accidents within a certain time frame, so don't delay. Failing to report an accident promptly can lead to complications with your claim, including denial.

When reporting, stick to the facts. Provide basic details about the accident, such as the time, date, location, and involved parties. Avoid speculating or admitting fault, as any comments you make can be used against you later.

Document Everything

The importance of documentation cannot be overstated when dealing with insurance companies post-accident. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be. Here are some key items to document:

1.Photographs: Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and any other relevant details. Photographs provide clear, visual evidence that can support your claim.

2.Witness Statements: If there were witnesses to the accident, gather their contact information and ask for written or recorded statements. Witnesses can provide unbiased accounts that may corroborate your version of events.

3.Police Report: Always file a police report after an accident, even if it seems minor. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which is crucial for insurance purposes.

4.Medical Records: Seek medical attention immediately after the accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not be immediately apparent. Keep detailed records of your medical visits, diagnoses, treatments, and expenses.

Be Careful When Giving Statements

Insurance companies will likely ask you to give a recorded statement about the accident. While it may seem like a routine request, you need to be cautious. Insurance adjusters are trained to look for information that could minimize the payout or shift blame to you.

Here’s how to approach giving a statement:

Consult an Attorney: Before giving a recorded statement, it’s advisable to consult with an attorney. A lawyer can help you understand the types of questions you might face and how to answer them without inadvertently harming your claim.

Stick to the Facts: Only provide factual, concise information. Avoid speculating about the cause of the accident, your injuries, or other parties’ actions. For example, don’t say, “I think the other driver was speeding,” unless you have concrete evidence. Stick to statements like, “The other vehicle appeared to be going fast.”

Don’t Admit Fault: Even if you believe you may have contributed to the accident, do not admit fault. The investigation will determine liability, and admitting fault prematurely can harm your ability to recover compensation.

Know the Value of Your Claim

Insurance companies might offer a settlement soon after the accident, but initial offers are often lower than what you deserve. It’s important to understand the true value of your claim before accepting any settlement. Your claim should take into account the following factors:

1.Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical costs related to injuries from the accident. Make sure to account for all medical bills, rehabilitation, and any potential long-term care.

2.Lost Wages: If the accident causes you to miss work, either temporarily or permanently, you should be compensated for lost income. This can include both past and future lost wages if your injuries affect your ability to work.

3.Property Damage: The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident should be included in your claim.

4.Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages such as pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life are harder to quantify but should still be considered when determining the value of your claim.

5.Future Costs: In cases of severe injury, you may face ongoing medical expenses and lost earning capacity. Work with your healthcare providers and legal team to estimate future costs and include them in your settlement request.

Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer

Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to protect their bottom line. As a result, the first settlement offer you receive will likely be lower than what you deserve. While it may be tempting to accept an early offer, especially if you are facing mounting medical bills and financial stress, patience can pay off.

Review the Offer Carefully: Take the time to review any settlement offers thoroughly. Consult with your attorney before accepting, and make sure that the offer covers all of your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other related expenses.

Negotiate: If the offer is too low, don’t hesitate to negotiate. You have the right to ask for a higher amount that reflects the full scope of your losses. Provide evidence to support your counteroffer, such as medical bills, repair estimates, and documentation of lost wages.

Be Prepared for Delays: Insurance companies may drag out the settlement process in hopes that you will become frustrated and accept a low offer. Stay patient and persistent, and rely on your attorney to keep the pressure on the insurance company to negotiate in good faith.

Seek Legal Assistance

One of the most important strategies for dealing with insurance companies after an accident is seeking legal representation. While some minor claims can be handled independently, most accidents—especially those involving injuries—are best managed with the help of a personal injury attorney.

Leveling the Playing Field: Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize payouts. A skilled attorney can level the playing field and ensure that your rights are protected.

Expert Negotiation: Personal injury attorneys are experienced negotiators. They understand the tactics insurance companies use and can effectively counter lowball offers, helping you maximize your compensation.

Litigation: In some cases, the insurance company may refuse to offer a fair settlement. If negotiations stall, your attorney can file a lawsuit and take the case to court if necessary.

Be Aware of Time Limits

Each state has a statute of limitations that sets a time limit for filing a claim after an accident. These time limits can range from one to six years, depending on the state and the type of claim. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation altogether.

Know Your Deadline: Check your state’s statute of limitations for personal injury and property damage claims. Consult with an attorney to ensure you file your claim within the required timeframe.

Don’t Delay: The sooner you begin the claims process, the stronger your case will be. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories may fade, and delays can give the insurance company an advantage.

Maintain Communication with Your Insurance Company

It’s important to keep open lines of communication with your insurance company throughout the claims process. Respond to requests for information promptly and keep them updated on any changes in your situation, such as ongoing medical treatments or vehicle repairs. However, be careful about the details you share, and consult with your attorney before providing any statements or documents that could affect your case.

Keep Records of All Communication: Document all interactions with your insurance company, including emails, phone calls, and letters. This can help protect you if there are disputes later on.

Use Written Communication When Possible: Written communication provides a paper trail that can be useful if there are discrepancies about what was said or agreed upon.

Navigating the complexities of dealing with insurance companies after an accident can be challenging, but following these strategies can help you protect your rights and secure fair compensation. From promptly reporting the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating settlements and seeking legal help, each step is crucial to achieving the best possible outcome for your claim. With preparation and persistence, you can effectively manage the insurance claims process and focus on your recovery.

[person-injury-law-news]

WHAT YOU SHOULD AND SHOULDN’T SAY AFTER A CRASH

Shapiro Law Team  January 16, 2024  Car Accidents,Personal injury

It’s normal to feel shaken up after a car crash. But don’t make the mistake of saying something that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Once you’re in a car accident, words matter. Why? Slipping up and saying the wrong thing can raise the eyebrows of insurance companies and point fault toward you. We’ll take a look at common phrases you should and should not say after a collision.

Table of Contents

Things Not to Say After a Car Accident

Don’t Say Anything on Social Media

What to Say to Someone After a Car Accident

Ask for the Other Driver’s License and Insurance Information

Contact a Car Accident Attorney for Help With Your Claim

Things Not to Say After a Car Accident

“I accept…” Accepting any fault at the scene of the accident will put you in the spotlight. Uttering phrases like “I accept” or “I’m sorry” could land you in the hot seat of insurance companies and might be misconstrued as accepting blame for the accident.

“I think that…” Don’t speculate about the accident. Making assumptions will only hurt your case and make it harder for legal professionals to sway the blame away from you. This can also lead to unnecessary conflict regarding liability. Leave the details to law enforcement and attorneys instead.

“I didn’t see you…” It’s important to be honest about the accident, but not in this case. Saying “I didn’t see you” is a one-way ticket to taking the blame. Plus, admitting you didn’t see the other driver can wind up being used against you during legal proceedings.

“I’m not hurt…” Not all injuries are visible, and not seeking medical attention immediately after an accident can hurt your chances of recovering maximum compensation. It’s best to say nothing at all regarding injuries. Instead, seek medical attention right away.

“Let’s handle it on our own…” It doesn’t pay to handle a car accident case on your own. Suggesting to handle the case yourself could be seen as a way to avoid legal repercussions, hindering your ability to get compensated fairly. You might also find that the accident caused a lot more damage than you initially thought, compromising your finances down the road.

Don’t Say Anything on Social Media

Social media is like a 24/7 open mic. Don’t use it while undergoing a car accident case. Complaining or talking about your case on social media can and will be held against you, especially if insurance providers are watching your every post. Leave the talking to the professionals, and contact an experienced car accident attorney.

What to Say to Someone After a Car Accident

It’s natural to want to say something after a car accident—and you should. But make sure it’s the right thing and not something that will hurt your case. Below are a few statements you should say following a car accident.

“I’m glad you’re okay…” Car accidents are scary and not easy for all parties involved. A simple “I’m glad you’re okay” goes a long way. Make sure to hug the other person if you are close to them.

“How are you feeling?” Your friend or loved one is likely feeling frustration, anger, sadness, and fear. This mix of emotions can be overwhelming, so don’t expect a happy response. Asking how this person is feeling allows them to validate their feelings without feeling any pressure.

“Does anyone need medical attention?” It’s important to prioritize the health and well-being of your passenger or the other driver during this time. Call 911 if they need help, making sure everyone involved receives the care they need.

“Is there anything I can do to help you right now?” Giving your friend or loved one support during such a challenging time is essential. Whether it’s contacting a family member, arranging transportation, or simply lending a helping hand, offering support makes a big difference.

“Has anyone called the police yet?” If the police haven’t been contacted yet, make sure they are. The police will arrive on the scene to create a police report, which will be beneficial to your attorney.

Shapiro Law Team uses a handful of evidence, including a police report, to help build your case.

Ask for the Other Driver’s License and Insurance Information

Make sure you’ve received the other driver’s license and insurance information. You’ll need these details during the claims process. That being said, an experienced car accident attorney will handle all communication with the other driver’s insurance company so you don’t have to.

Contact a Car Accident Attorney for Help With Your Claim

There are a lot of dos and don’ts when it comes to the aftermath of a car accident. Get the help and clarity you need during this difficult time by contacting Shapiro Law Team, the trusted Farmington car accident law firm.

We have years of experience helping car accident victims just like you; all you have to do is call us for a free consultation. Consultations are 100% confidential and can steer you in the right direction regarding your claim. Let’s start building your case today.

[arty-shadow-morningstar]

A Failed Betrothal (5)

This is going to be the last part I am going to post in a while. My school is finally starting up again and I am sure to be swamped with homework. Without further ado. Enjoy ❤

[Masterlist]

(Part 1)(Part 4)

-----------

Damian laid in bed, thinking about the recent turn of events. Lady, who told them that they can call her Marinette since they might as well get acquainted while the Waynes were in Paris. She had found out Jason’s identity after a few google searches and by extension, the rest of the Bats while they both were taking a shower. It had taken a few arguments and one sentimonster attack that cut one of the arguments short to trust the Dupain-Chengs with their secret identities. His bride was apparently a superhero too. Has been for a few years. In a different world, he might have actually dated her out of his own free will and fought crime with her together.

Damian shook his head at that thought.

That was the curse talking. Get a hold of yourself, Wayne. Resist. Don’t think about Marinette and her blue eyes.

Back to the akumas, Paris had been under the control of a magical terrorist for years. Lady Noire, formerly known as Ladybug, formed a team to battle against him. He also found out about the Guardian who chose Marinette and someone else, who wasn’t spoken about much except that his name was Chat Noir and she now wields his ring temporarily, to fight against Hawkmoth as partners. The same Guardian that promised her hand-in-marriage in exchange for protection from the League of Assassins. Sabine, the Blue Reaper, had to be restrained from killing the old amnesiatic man by her bear of a husband who was reluctant to do so and also wanted to help her.

Hawkmoth also had a partner who went by the name, Mayura, with a power similar to his and could create sentimonster out of negative emotions. Their top suspect was Gabriel Agreste, with much evidence pointing his way but they had difficulty trying to confirm it and had the time to gather evidence to do it. The local authorities were helpful but getting a search warrant for a famous, rich designer who was a known recluse with circumstantial evidence is not possible.

After informing their father of their kidnapping and the situation in Paris (and racking up the Dupain-Cheng's phone bill), they were told to stay there and help as much as they can. Tim, who was coming to Paris for a vacation (suspicious), got his plans hijacked and was now going to help uncover Hawkmoth’s identity.

When the Justice League had reached out a few years ago, they were rebuffed by the Mayor. Nightrunner got into contact with the one of the heroes, Ladybug who asked for a meeting outside of Paris with Wonder Woman and Batman came along, to assess her. They didn’t expect a young girl to be Paris’s heroine.

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

3 years ago…

“Bonjour, Princess Diana of Themyscira, daughter of Hippolayta, it is an honour to meet you. And you too, Batman.” The spotted heroine greeted both of them with Nightrunner besides her. Their meeting point was in the gardens in the Palace of Versailles.

“The pleasure is all mine, Ladybug. But I am confused as to why you have refused the Justice League’s help.” Wonder Woman was worried that the Ladybug Miraculous was active again and for many good reasons.

“I would be glad for some help but Paris is run by an incompetent fool. He wants no one outside of Paris to think that the city is unsafe due to Hawkmoth and keep the tourism numbers high. The other reason is that my Miraculous Cure can restore any physical damages done during a fight and involving you might result in more damages than I could cure. But I also think it would be better if there were less powerful heroes in Paris, akumas amplifies one’s power and I don’t want to fight you after you had a bad day.” Ladybug explained. Nightrunner murmured in agreement.

“Do you know how Hawkmoth operates?” asked Batman. He had read reports of the situation but wondered the true extent of it.

“Have Wonder Woman explained to you about the Miraculous?”

He nodded.

“Hawkmoth has the butterfly miraculous, and it has the power of transmission. In the right hands, they would be used to grant ordinary people powers as the user’s champions. But in the hands of Hawkmoth, he targets people with high negative emotions, a girl after a bad break-up or a student with a failed grade. He grants them powers to use for revenge or some obscure version of justice. In return, he asks for mine and Chat Noir’s miraculous. With our two miraculous, he can make a wish but wishes always come with a price so it is best if we keep it out of his reach.”

“How have you not captured him yet?”

“Hawkmoth is a coward who rarely comes out to face us. I have never met him face-to-face. He uses people to get what he wants. Not very honourable. The Mayor has refused to help my attempts to stop him or prevent more akumas because his bratty daughter isn’t given a Miraculous to be a hero. I don’t have the time or resources because I am still in school and have other obligations outside the suit. I can’t tell my family and ask for help because the Guardian’s ,the one who gave me the Miraculous in the first place, secret identities rule and some magic thing that makes me unable to tell them.”

The adults were all horrified at what the girl was going through.

“We could help in other ways. Not fight the akumas but provide you the resources to track down and capture him. Do you have any training? From the footage we have seen, you know martial arts and how to use some weapons.”

“I was raised in a forgotten temple somewhere in Asia with brutal training everyday before I ran away. I met someone on my way out who took me in and adopted me.” She said it seriously enough that they have no room for doubt.

“Batman, she just said she was adopted. She may have the features but the answer is no.” Wonder Woman said with a knowing look in her eyes.

“I wasn’t thinking about it. She has a duty to Paris right now and I am not going to take away from her life here. I don’t adopt every black-haired and blue-eyed child I see.” Batman denied.

“I am confused.” Ladybug said, tilting her head.

“Batman here has a bad habit of adopting kids with a tragic past, especially kids with black hair and blue eyes.” Nightrunner explained to his fellow Parisian hero.

“Well, Mousier, you will have to fight my parents for custody. While I have training, Chat Noir doesn’t and he hinders the battles with his ‘help’. I would give him some but he sees them as dates even though I have told him it’s not.”

“His incompetence is a liability. Why is he your partner?”

“The Guardian chose him too like he chose me through some stupid trial I somehow passed the requirements for. I am just hoping that there is a really good reason for choosing Chat Noir. I have some questions on how you are-”

“Ladybug, what are you doing?” A sharp voice cut in. An old man who appeared to be dressed as a tortoise landed in front of them.

“Master Fu, this is Princess Diana of Themyscira and the world’s greatest detective, Batman. I am asking for their help in finding Hawkmoth.” Ladybug explained, confused why Master Fu looked upset.

“Ladybug, that was extremely foolish of you. This is a matter of the Order. You shouldn’t have involved other heroes in it. We can resolve this on our own. I apologize on behalf of her for wasting your time.”

“But, Master-” “We will talk about this later, Ladybug. You are young and don’t understand things yet.”

“Guardian, with all due respect, my mother was a Ladybug wielder herself and the Amazons will lend a hand to any miraculous holders in need.”

“It is appreciated but Ladybug, Chat Noir and I can do it on our own. Come along, Ladybug.”

“Let me at least apologize for my mistake, Guardian.”

“Very well. Meet me later.”

“I am sorry but it looks like I have to fight Hawkmoth without your help. That being said please don’t try to look further into Hawkmoth’s identity and leave any notes of your leads in the mouth of the gargoyle on the northside of Notre Dame where I usually rest after I finish patrol. Salut, Princess Diana, Batman, Nightrunner.” She left using her yo-yo to swing away after giving them a wink.

Batman smirked. He had to give it to Ladybug, she was clever and resourceful and Diana was right, he wanted to adopt her.

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

Present time…

(Words in bold are French)

Now that the previous Guardian was out of the picture, the Miraculous team would gladly accept any help they can get.

Damian and Jason had picked up Tim from the airport and they had already set things up in one of the Wayne penthouses in Paris. Less chance of nosy maids than in a hotel.

Bilal had already handed over all the evidence he could find. He was also one of the Miraculous team’s trainers when Sabine couldn’t make it. Jason and Damian were going to help in training and be back-up heroes when needed. (Bilal wore a miraculous once to help out. And that one time was weird enough to last him a lifetime and he was never doing it again.)

Sadly, all the magic users who were allies or part of the JL were busy with other missions or MIA so they couldn’t break Damian’s curse yet. Bruce didn’t see the problem with the curse so unless it causes major problems or someone is free to break it. They couldn’t go back to Gotham until they got the necessary things in order so it looks like they were going to be in Paris for a while.

The next morning, Tim was nowhere to be found. Because they were paranoid Batboys, they tracked his phone to see him at the Dupain-Cheng’s bakery with Marinette and a group of other people, having breakfast.

“There you are, Replacement.” Jason shouted as he entered the bakery, “So, this is where you were? I see you have already figured out who Ladybug is and met her.”

Marinette looked at Damian and Jason, then at Tim and back at them again.

Oh.

Oh.

She face-palmed as she connected the dots and realized what the nagging feeling she had around Tim was about.

“Oh my Kwamis, you are Tim Drake, adopted by Bruce Wayne aka Batman. Jason and Damian are your brothers. And judging by your build, you are Red Robin. I feel so stupid.”

Thankfully, there were no customers around yet to hear some of the world’s most important secrets being out.

“I am- We are not- Bruce isn’t- How?! How the hell did you find out? And you are Ladybug?!” Tim was floundering at Marinette’s words and the caffeine from his first coffee of the day hadn’t kicked in yet. He looked at her friends, who were looking at the Wayne boys with shocked expressions….and looked similar to the rest of the Miraculous Team.

The caffeine finally kicked in.

“Oh my God. I was talking to the entire Miraculous Team and I didn’t know it. That means Chloe Bourgeois is a hero. That bratty blonde I met as a child is a hero.”

“Speak for yourself, Timothy, my childhood friend is a hero too. I can’t believe we are all heroes.” Chloe said in total disbelief.

Introductions and alter egos were exchanged.

Nearly everything went swimmingly if it weren’t for Chloe jokingly elbowed Marinette and said, “You get to date a hero too. No need to worry about flaking out on dates.”

“What do you mean dates? Dupain-Cheng and I aren’t dating.” Damian said, “My mother wanted us to marry each other, not date.”

“Mari, looks like you need some explaining to do.”

Marinette gave the short story on how she met Damian and Jason.

“So you guys are absolutely not dating? Cool. Tim, are you still open to being Mari-bug's fake boyfriend?” Chloe asked. Tim looked at her incredulously.

“You called me all the way here to fake-date your friend. Why? Not that I am complaining about her or anything.” “There is this boy in our class, Adrien Agreste and he has a little obsession with Marinette.” Chloe explained. “Romantic Soulmates.” Nathaniel chimed in, doing air-quotes.

“So I volunteered on your behalf to be my best friend’s long-distance boyfriend in America who has video-call dates with her once a week. You are going to have little romantic dates coincidently where our classmates are going to be, especially Adrien. It might put him off from pursuing Marinette for a while. After you leave, we are just to mention you every now and then to prevent him from getting any ideas.”

Damian felt a hot, burning sensation in his chest and clenched his jaw at the thought of Marin- Dupain-Cheng holding hands, cuddling and doing all those romantic actions with Drake of all people. (No, he wasn’t jealous. Not at all. Don’t be stupid. )

“Tch, Drake is going to be busy trying to find Hawkmoth. He can’t go around Paris, being Dupain-Cheng’s boyfriend. Besides, he can’t be a proper boyfriend even in his most lucid moments. I will be her boyfriend instead.”

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Tag list: @alysrose-starchild, @buginetye, @lookatthestars1, @blackroserelina, @macncheesemonster, @mochinek0, @myazael, @tonicxworld, @thewitchwhowaited, @t1dwarrior-of-earth, @kissa-chan, @iwantasecretidentity, @theymakeupfairies, @user00000003, @woe-is-me0, @kashlyn, @mochegato,@moonlightstar64 , @greatcatblaze, @moongoddesskiana, @tazanna-blythe. @tonicxworld, @toodaloo-kangaroo, @frieddonutsweets, @local-witch-of-mn, @lady-bee-fechin, @iglowinggemma28, @indecisive-mess-named-me, @k-tea-and-coffee, @jayjayspixiepop, @all-mights-asscheeks, @idk-j-go-with-it , @loysydark, @thenillabean, @lolieg, @zalladane, @silvergold-swirl, @henie04, @blueblossombliss, @khneltea, @mochegato, @itsmeevie01, @roguishredaxion, @alyssadeliv, @steph-hearthlight, @adrestar, @eliza-bich, @abrx2002, @hikari55ttva, @doglover82, @daminette5074

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(PART 6)

[dessarious]

Misconceptions, Miscommunication, and Misinformation Pt88

AO3   Beginning   Previous   Next

By the time Selina exited the bathroom in her street clothes Chloe had tucked Mari in, sent Damian a ‘thanks for the heads up asshole’ text, fed the Kwami, notified Luka and the Kwami that they’d be dealing with any issues for the next few days, and was currently calmly filing her nails waiting for the front desk to send up the room key. She didn’t look up as the woman walked back in the room but could feel her eyes on her.

“I think we got off on the wrong foot. I shouldn’t have just shown up in costume without making sure you were aware I was coming and I shouldn’t have made assumptions about who you were outside of being a hero. Apparently Bruce left out a few things when he explained the situation to me. And he most likely didn’t mention to the boys that I could be showing up early.” Chloe glanced up at the woman and saw real sincerity. She looked at Marinette’s sleeping form and could practically hear the girl’s voice in her head telling her to be nice.

“It’s fine. I’m used to it.” And she was. Everyone expected her to be someone else. Her parents expected the perfect daughter. Her class expected a first class bitch. The public only saw a spoiled little rich girl. She’d always played to people’s expectations rather than herself to the point that if you asked Chloe wouldn’t be able to tell you who she was. Marinette was changing all that, but she still didn’t have a clue who she was under all the bluster and snobbery. “It’s not your fault either and Mari would kick my ass if I were less than civil. We can start over tomorrow when tensions aren’t so high and we’re all rested.”

“That… sounds like a good idea.” Chloe watched as the woman frowned thoughtfully at Marinette. “She’s very observant.” Chloe let out an amused snort.

“You have no idea. It’s worse when she’s awake because you know she sees more than everyone else but she keeps it to herself. It’s maddening wondering what she saw that you didn’t.” It had absolutely nothing to do with her being Ladybug either. Marinette had seen and heard more than everyone else for as long as Chloe could remember. Honestly it might have been the look of pity the girl gave her the first time her parents didn’t show up for something that started Chloe on her vendetta when they were little. Everyone else believed her when she said her parents were too busy to attend some tiny school assembly. Somehow, Marinette knew she was lying. Every time Marinette looked at her after that she’d felt like she was under a microscope.

“I live with ‘the world’s greatest detective’ so I’m used to that feeling. Granted Tim’s worse in that regard but Bruce is so uncommunicative you know he’s got things in his head you’ll never be able to pry out.” Chloe gave a non committal hum. She hadn’t been that impressed with the man during their encounter, but he had been squaring off against Mari so both that comparison and the fact she was in protection mode may very well have colored her perception. Okay, it definitely colored her perception.

“That will help. Plus Mari’s gotten a lot better at hiding it when she figures things out. That comment about why Damian doesn’t like you would never have come out, she just would have started subtly nudging the pair of you into some form of tolerance without you noticing. She probably still will actually.” Definitely with Damian. His obvious intolerance of someone so important to his father was bound to make her do it even if Selina was the most obnoxious person alive. Mari couldn’t help herself. If she thought it was broken, she fixed it, and Damian had become her pet project.

“I’m not that easy to manipulate.” Chloe could only smirk at the woman.

“I assure it won’t matter. With no planning she got Bruce to agree to leave Damian in Paris. Trust me, when she decides something needs to change, it does. I’m a prime example of that.” That was probably not the best way to say that. Mari had a tendency to push people towards what would make them happy. With Chloe it had changed over the years and she hadn’t even realized what was happening. Mari was the one who got her to think about running for class representative originally. At the time her father was in the middle of a reelection campaign and she’d wanted to be just like him. Mari was also indirectly responsible for her push to get Adrien out of homeschooling. All it had taken was a few well placed comments. It was honestly scary how easily she could manipulate people. And it was amazing that she actively tried to only help people when she could do so much damage.

“I’ll keep that in mind. Honestly if she can get Damian in anyway on board with my relationship with his father it would be a tremendous relief. I know we’ve had a… fairly rocky relationship for a long time, but we’re both finally at the point where we can accept each other for who we are. But if Damian is completely set against it, I don’t think Bruce will risk alienating him to stay with me. It hurts knowing that, but I understand. Especially given all they’ve gone through. Bruce won’t risk losing a child that way.” Chloe could help but frown at that. She couldn’t imagine either one of her parents denying themselves something just to keep her from leaving. She was actually pretty sure her mother would auction her off to the highest bidder for an exclusive on the next hottest thing in fashion. Her father would sell his own soul to stay in office so she didn’t imagine he’d flinch at tossing her out if she became a liability.

“He sounds like a decent man.” Bruce Wayne’s public image was terrible but she knew better than most how deceptive that could be. Selina was giving her a concerned look. Crap, her thoughts must have shown on her face. She really was tired if she was having trouble keeping a neutral expression.

“He is, no matter how hard he tries to pretend otherwise. He wouldn’t have given me so many chances if he weren’t.” She glanced at Mari. “I have a feeling you’ll understand what I mean.” Chloe just nodded. Mari had given her chance after chance, as both herself and Ladybug. If she hadn’t who knows where she’d be right now. “People like that are rare, but they also don’t stick with lost causes. If you or I were a hopeless case they wouldn’t have put the effort in.”

“She’s right you know.” Tikki flew over from the bed to land on Chloe’s shoulder. “There was always a hero in you. You just needed to know it was okay to be that person instead of who you were raised to be.” That got an even more concerned look from Selina.

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[wanna-b-poet31]

A 4-Part Meta on Good Omens Part 2: Crowley’s Abuse and Trauma

This is 100% going to be a longer series on Goom Omens because I have ALLLL the thoughts on this, #Sorrynotsorry to my followers who didn’t sign up for my blog to turn into a 24/7 Good Omens one.

In Part 1 I wrote about how Aziraphale is constantly being emotionally, physically, and verbally abused by Heaven and the TLDR conclusion is that Crowley’s love for Aziraphale helps heal him from the abuses of Heaven.

Crowley, just like Aziraphale, is also dealing with the consequences of Heaven’s abuse, but it’s being compounded with the abuse, neglect, and trauma he suffers at the hands of Hell and >spoiler< presumed death of Aziraphale.  Neither have straight forward reactions to their abuse but ARE on the road to recovery.

In the beginning, there was a garden, a wily snake, an angel on apple tree duty, and a “parental” God. But, before then, before the beginning, there is a fall, a “purge” of angels who ask too many questions and cause too much trouble for Heaven to control through their intimidation and dogmatism. And here, we have the first abuse -- the fall.

Crowley is inquisitive by nature. Before Noah’s flood, we see him investigate the situation and interrogate Aziraphale with a barrage of questions. He knows right from wrong and craves answers for moral questions -- he needs to know what’s going on to protect others.  Although we don’t know what specific question caused his fall, we do know that asking questions threatens the authoritative nature of Heaven. No one is allowed to question the “great plan”, as evident by the hostile nature the angels respond to Crowley’s and Aziraphale’s attempts to save the Earth. Stringent, cold, and distant behavior punishes independent thought and, since Crowley needs answers, needs to know how to help, he’s a liability to their hierarchy.  

We also know that by the time we meet him, he’s already banished from grace and discarded like yesterday’s trash. He’s already fallen before tempting Eve into knowing the difference between right and wrong. He’s already fallen and already disowned by the almighty and her all her creations. He’s functionally alone, no unconditional love, no support, no reason for WHY what he’s done is bad or not. He’s neglected and isolated. 

We’re told several times that Crowley doesn’t really consider himself really fallen, or rather, that he’s sauntered vaguely downward. But, the truth of the matter is that he IS fallen, and we’re told explicitly it’s because he was asking questions, that “[asking questions] was all it took [to fall] before”.  And, we can see that 6000 years later, it’s still wreaking immeasurable damage to his emotional and mental health. 

Just look at his face when he’s begging to an unbending God who cast him out. He’s not spiteful (although given his treatment, he’s well within his rights to be) but desperate. He’s questioning why everything has to end, why he has to drop his home, his car, his best friend. He’s not mourning his fall (in this gif) but he’s not quite over the implications of being unloved. 

When Aziraphale says he hopes Crowley is forgiven, Azi still has faith that the angels are “good” and that forgiving Crowley would allow them to still be together, fighting for the greater good. Crowley’s immediate response though is that that’s his whole deal as a demon. He says he’s “unforgivable”.  The lack of self-esteem is symptomatic of the abandonment he’s experienced. It’s not just that he doesn’t want Heaven’s forgiveness (quite honestly he doesn’t need their forgiveness because it’s not his fault he’s been abandoned, it’s theirs), it that he doesn’t feel like he’s worthy of anyone’s forgiveness. This consequently adds to the importance of Aziraphale’s later forgiveness. It’s not that Aziraphale has been wronged, it’s cementing the idea that Crowley has worth in his eyes. That, with no strings attached, Crowley is loved and cared for, even if Aziraphale’s unwilling to run away with him.  

This is further cemented in how he responds to Aziraphale’s “nice” compliment. Unlike the genuine anger he shows the other demons, he ‘s careful with Aziraphale. Now, is it a “nice” thing to do? No. But, he’s not trying to be. Despite this, he’s careful not to hit Azi’s head against the wall, and as the gif below shows, Aziraphale’s got enough time to put a hand back behind him and brace himself against the wall. There are no defensive movements, no attempts to push back or talk his way out of the assault.  Although Azi does do that when the Angel’s confront him about working with Crowley, he knows that in this instance, Crowley is reacting to a traumatic trigger.  Crowley knows that being nice didn’t save him from falling or trauma after the fact. He’s yet to fully cope with his trauma. 

Shoutout to @greenbergsays for their excellent deep dive into this scene and being the first I can find pointing out Aziraphale’s lack of reaction.  

Hell is no better. After being cast out, there is no such thing as unity or support. Despite Crowley being great at his job, getting awards left and right, there is no trust. Hastur explicitly says as much because Crowley acts differently, and once again he’s punished for deviating from the limited acceptable behavior. Beyond the issue of trust, there is no respect and (in the series at least) Crowley’s actual work is not recognized (no, he can’t get a wahoo though he deserves one)

His “side” who he’s meant to be loyal to, meant to help win “the great war” ultimately does not care about him either. He is as disposable to them as he is/was to Heaven. 

Which is why he cares so damn much about Aziraphale. THIS is why he works so damn hard to be Aziraphale’s side. Crowley NEEDS a side that cares about him, and he knows that throughout the last 6 millennia, Aziraphale is the only one to see the world like he does; who is as strange and rebellious as he is; who has fallen in love with humanity like he has. Aziraphale loves hard, but also honestly. Unlike Heaven, Hell, or God, there are no strings attached to the love they share. Crowley isn’t secretly trying to manipulate Aziraphale into “falling”, Crowley knows just how important Azi’s identity as an angel is to him and Crowley goes out of his way to affirm and reaffirm Aziraphale’s identity.  

   The relationship he’s developed with Aziraphale makes walking in on his burning home the worse traumatization post-fall. Look at the pain and anger on his face when he realizes his best friend to be dead.  Crowley KNOWS running into that building that the only way for his Angel’s bookstore to be on fire is if Aziraphale is dead or dying.  Without Aziraphale, Crowley is alone. Unquestionably, undeniably, permanently alone.  Just like when he was in Heaven. Just like after the fall. Just like in heaven. 

You can call it what you like, romantic, platonic, best friend, lover, or queer, but the grief at this moment consumes him. His loss triggers the neglect and isolation given to him by God during his original trauma. Once he’s realized, fully realized, that he’s alone without anyone left on his side, he has nothing left to fight for. Look at the grief on his face, he’s mourning, and resigned to the end of the world, because there’s no world without his support system, without his family. He has no one left to help him cope.

 Although, one of the ways Crowley DOES try to come is through his alcoholism. Although both Aziraphale and Crowly drink often, Crowley is more prone to excess and is more frequently getting drunk as a way to deal with tragedy. Although alcoholism has a heavy genetic component, his first response is to any stress is to drink. And, there are several studies linking alcoholism to trauma.  

Also, Crowley is retraumatized the same day by the loss of his car, compounding all of the different struggles of the day (the “loss” of Azi, the rejection of Heaven and Hell, the end of the world, his apartment being invaded by murderous demons). Losing his car, his only other reliable companion, his comfort zone, leaves him at rock bottom. 

It is only Aziraphale who can help him cope with the losses and redirect on their impending doom. 

It is only Aziraphale who can help him focus through the panic of seeing his car burning before him, of ending Apocalypse before it starts,  and facing his worst fear -- Satan himself.  

It is only Aziraphale, who, despite Crowley’s overpowering resignment to death via Satan, Crowley trusts enough to refocus and come up with a plan to help Adam cause Armaggedon’t.  

Which brings me to the final trauma -- his torture. Crowley is aware of the abusive behavior in Heaven, and while he couldn’t have known he would have gotten a trial in Hell (albeit an unfair one), he does not witness it. Instead, he poses as Aziraphale and endures some of the specific psychological torture intended for his best friend. Although he knows he can survive Hellfire, there is trauma in KNOWING his best friend wouldn’t have. There is trauma in being told to shut his face and die. There is trauma in not receiving a trial.  (I’ll unpack this more in part 3)

The only thing that enables Crowley to survive, to work through this trauma, is his relationship with Aziraphale.  He goes out of his way to inspect the resurrect the book shop, to “tempt” Aziraphale to lunch, to indulge and maintain his best friend.  He does things that make the Angel comfortable and does not once lie or violate his trust. Always, he’s on their side. Although he storms out 3 times in the show, he always uses it as breathing room, before once again seeking Aziraphale out, willing to drop everything to run away together. 

Since Heaven and Hell have disregarded him, treated him as less than dirt, he approached Aziraphale AS EQUALS. Their dynamic (Which I’ll go into more later) is not on uneven footing, and both parties treat the other with a kindness neither of them is offered by their respective worlds.  

TLDR:  Aziraphale's love helps Crowley cope with his trauma and their no-strings-attached relationship enables him to begin healthier healing processes despite the abuses of Heaven and Hell.  

Thanks for coming to my Ted talk

[greensaplinggrace]

Barret Apocalypse AU Pt. 3

PART 1 | PART 2 | PART 3 of Prompt: “Hello! This is kind of out there but I was wondering if you could do a post apocolypse au? With tons of Barret but not very shippy. With lots of found family though! Thanks” ~ @eilesgiire

CAN BE FOUND HERE ON AO3 - NOW COMPLETE!

Tifa fights like Barret has never seen anyone fight before. Quick and vicious, fists and feet and violence. With cool precision and a fluidity in every movement - creative and adaptable and intelligent. She flows like water and strikes like lightning and all Barret can do the first time she pulls on her gloves and beats a man to the ground is watch in frozen awe.

Until, of course, he’s forced to watch her back and shoot down those in the Cluster she isn’t already taking care of. 

He’d kept Marlene behind him the whole time, ready to take her and run if need be, but he’d stayed for Tifa. He’d fought for Tifa.

And Tifa had fought for him.

She’d fought for Marlene, too, and every day since then Marlene has looked at her like she hung the moon and the stars. Clinging to her and asking for stories - helping Tifa clean up around camp and cook dinner when it’s her turn, mellow and soft in the light of the stove as the sun sets behind them.

Tifa fills up the empty spaces of Barret’s life and more. With reliable efficiency and a keen loyalty, but most all with her kindness and her passion. Her fire and her loyalty and the gentleness of her touch when she carries Marlene. The softness of her smile and the light of her laugh and the compassionate lull of her silence when they sit together, just the two of them, late into the calm of the night.

Tifa saves him in many ways. She saves him from driving himself to the ground protecting his daughter. She saves him from having to be alone - from fighting a one man battle against the world with a child at his back. Tifa saves him in other ways, too. With furious fists and keen eyes, fighting off the monsters of the night and bringing home supplies he could never have uncovered on his own. But mostly she saves him by just being there and being herself. Always.

Tifa stays for many years after he helps her, through trials and victories and losses - through it all. And every second of every day after he saves her, she saves him right back.

---

Barret returns from patrol to a spread of food in the middle of camp, Tifa sitting on her knees by their makeshift kitchen as she rummages through bags of food. Marlene is perched nearby on a horizontal log, kicking her legs as she watches with childlike fascination. Barret stays silent for a moment to watch them, Tifa glancing up to nod at him in greeting before returning to her work.

“What do you think?” she finally hums, “Sandwiches and fruit salad?”

“What kinda sandwiches?” Marlene asks, high and sweet as she tilts her head at Tifa, and Barret can’t help the warmth of adoration when he sees her wide eyed curiosity. He settles his bag of car parts at the base of a nearby tree and wanders further into the clearing.

“Hmm...how about...peanut butter and jelly!” Tifa waves the can of peanut butter at her invitingly, but Marlene only makes an exaggerated face of disgust. Tifa remains entirely unfazed by the rejection, merely chuckling and setting it aside to rummage through the bags again. “I thought you liked peanut butter.”

“I did, but not anymore! It’s gross and it makes my mouth all sticky.” 

“Okay...chicken and tomatoes, then. With white cheddar cheese…and avocado!” Tifa holds up the green food triumphantly to Marlen’s wild cheer. She smiles fondly as she sets it aside, sharing a look with Barret over Marlene’s head. He huffs out a laugh and sets the rest of his supplies at the edge of his tent.

“Yeah!” Marlene exclaims excitedly, practically vibrating in her seat now, “Sandwiches and fruit salad! What’s in the salad, Auntie Tifa?”

Tifa casts a sideways smirk at Marlene as she leans over her supplies and starts to gather what she needs. “That’s a secret,” she tuts, “now go play with Daddy while I make this.”

Marlene’s gasp is so loud it could wake the dead, and Barret finally lets out a full bellied laugh as she wheels around to face him. “Daddy!” she yells, teetering on the log with the force of her momentum, “I knew you’d be back soon!”

He catches her before she can fall, setting a large hand on her shoulder and getting to his knees in front of her. “Well, you’ve always been the smartest of us,” he says, accepting her into a one armed hug, “and apparently the pickiest!”

“Peanut butter isn’t yummy anymore,” she huffs as she pouts against his chest, and he snorts. 

“That’s okay, we’ll just find you something better.” He takes her up in his arm, lifting her until she’s propped up on his shoulder. “Now, what happened while I was away?”

Marlene chats for a half hour about catching bugs and trying on dresses, how she and Tifa explored the river and raced boats down the stream, and not once does she mention trouble or danger. Not once does she cry or pause to look sad, barely hanging on to that thread of innocence and joy.

Nothing happened, she says, except that she had fun. Lived her life. Talked with Tifa and ran around camp in a frenzy after having chocolate. Nothing bad happened at all, and that’s more than a blessing. It’s more than he could ever put a name to.

He thinks things might just be starting to look up for them.

---

Losing his prosthetic is nowhere near losing his real arm, but damn if it doesn hurt like a sonofabitch. It stings with pain and lights up at the worst of times, and when he finally goes to remove it he can only take away so many pieces to relieve the misery. The base isn’t something he can just remove, especially now that part of it has been damaged. So they’re down one gun and they’re down one arm, and to make matters worse, the rest of the prosthetic is quickly becoming a liability.

And of course, their truck is gone as well, because Barret had trusted the wrong damn person at the wrong damn time, and he knows he has nobody to blame but himself. Tifa feels mighty guilty about it in the aftermath, citing the fight they’d had and her defense of the SOLDIER, but he knows she was only trying to support him. Knows she was only trying to make good of a fucked up situation in any way she could.

He’d made a mistake. He’d made many mistakes that day, but that one stings the worst. It stings the most when his arm is stinging too, though, and he remembers all he sacrificed. 

Barret vows that the next time he lays eyes on that arrogant piece of shit, there will be no benefit of doubt. Cloud will never see the light of day again.

So he’d better stay far, far away.

---

Cloud does not stay far away. 

He doesn’t even stay inches away, because that would be too good - it would be too easy.

No, the next time Barret sees Cloud, he’s trapped in one of the stores at the center of a mall, back to a checkout counter and counting the bullets of his handgun. A crash rings out, high and ear splitting as one of the display windows shatters beneath a heavy force, and then he’s tumbling over the counter and into Barret’s space before he can so much as shout in surprise. Plopping down right next to him, winded and scrambling to regain his footing, until the frantic turn of his head finally sets his sights on Barret.

They both freeze.

Barret’s growling at the mere sight of him, teeth clenched and five second away from firing, when the kid actually scoffs and turns his head away.

“Save it until we’re somewhere safe.”

“‘Scuse me?!”

“We need to get out of here first. Your grudge can wait.”

Barret laughs at the sheer audacity of this kid. “I ain’t workin’ side by side with the man who treated my family like dirt and then stole my damn truck!”

“Then you’ll die.” He doesn’t even flinch when he says it, expression the blank, unfeeling mask he’d been trying so hard for back at camp. Acting as if he’s recovered already; as if nothing had happened. 

As if he hadn’t been laid up and grieving the loss of his friend not two months ago.

Barret has to use every piece of willpower he’s got left to keep himself from exploding in frustration.

“I ain’t gonna die ‘cause I actually know what the hell I’m doing. Last time I checked, you were the one on death’s door.” He regrets bringing it up almost as much as he feels vindictively pleased with doing so, and the way Cloud’s lips thin, shoulders tightening, is both relieving and distressing all at once. 

Gaia, what the hell is he doing? 

He needs to get home to his family.

“Alright.” He swallows his pride. Three bullets and one arm. He’s been trapped back here for almost an hour now with the infected, unmoving and endlessly persistent. “You got a plan?”

Cloud’s face softens for a moment in surprise, and Barret feels a hint of triumph at the expression as the kid’s cheeks light with a blush and he turns away again. So much for Mr. Stoic.

While Barret waits for Cloud to speak he lets his head back back, counting out his breaths and pumping himself up for whatever they’re about to do. Then he launches himself up to peak over the counter for a second, eyeing the horde of infected through the three remaining glass windows. When he falls back to the ground he exhales loudly, grinning over at Cloud. 

“Whoo! Yeah, we can do this! So what- what’ve you got in mind? You hack and I shoot? Maybe we can give them the runaround and take ‘em from behind?”

There’s a beat of silence, Cloud staring at him with an indecipherable expression as he fingers the hilt of his blade. He frowns, shaking his head and peering around the open end of the counter.

“That could work.”

“What the hell is that supposed to mean?”

The kid juts out his chin, puffing up. “It means it could work.”

“Well, you’ve got a plan, right?”

A silence descends between them, as Barret’s hopeful expression slowly drops away and Cloud’s shifting becomes more agitated. Until finally, Cloud admits reluctantly, “I’m working on it.”

“You can’t be serious! You were the one pushing for us to work together. I thought you had something in mind.”

“Because I thought you had a plan!”

“I’ve been trapped here for an hour. If I had a plan, I wouldn’t be here.”

“You’re the leader of a gang. I thought you were supposed to be good at this?”

Barret feels like he’s just entered the twilight zone, casting the kid an incredulous look. “I ain’t the leader of shit! What gave you that impression?”

That makes Cloud falter, his mask shifting to reveal a brief flash of confusion, brow furrowing a centimeter in thought, before it all smoothes over again. 

Gaia, but that’s annoying as shit.

And all Barret can do is watch as his expression morphs into something cool and reserved, head turning to peer around the counter again in order to consider their options of escape. There’s something analytical there, now. Something more self reliant and less trusting that has Barret feeling like he’s failed.

Barret pushes it all from his mind, sighing and closing his eyes as he breathes rhythmically to calm himself. When he opens them again he gives the kid a long, assessing look and notices what he hadn’t taken the time to notice before.

Cloud looks exhausted. Hair longer than it had been - greasier and dirtier and still flecked with dried blood. It looks like he’s washed up at least once since they’d last met, but he’s clearly been busy. There are new bruises on his arms and a trio of cuts running down his left cheek. His outfit’s been changed, Barret notices, but it’s still a SOLDIER’s uniform. A thick turtleneck with a padded waistguard and loose pants. 

Barret isn’t too sure about the shoulder pad studded in nails or the wrist guards holding the same design. It looks like the modern scrap metal crafting members of Camps or Mobs tend to sport.

“The hell are you even doing here, anyway?” Barret can’t help asking, frowning at the fresh materia loaded in Cloud’s sword.

He hopes to high hell that the stupid punk hasn’t joined a Mob.

“I’m on a job.”

“Jobs are out in the apocalypse, in case you hadn’t heard.”

Cloud gives him a scathingly unimpressed look. “Camps still need certain supplies,” he says, after he breaks away to look outside the store again, “I happen to need different supplies. We make it work.”

“You’re a mercenary?!” Taking advantage of citizens in need to further his own interests. Barret should have known. Hell, the kid had taken his truck and left without even a word of goodbye.

“I’m guessing you don’t agree.”

“I think it’s the type of bottom feeding shit you’d get from Mobs and Syndicates,” Barret snaps, eyes narrowing, “but I don’t know what I expected out of a former SOLDIER.”

“Guess you know me as well as you thought you did,” Cloud hums, and the dryness of his tone makes Barret’s hackles rise.

“Do you even give one shit about the people around you?”

Cloud doesn’t even respond to that. He only tenses and tilts his head back, bringing his sword into a ready position at his side. 

“More are coming,” he breathes, the sound of his voice echoing in the dark corners of the store. The howling outside their windows becomes almost deafening with a thunder of footsteps and falling bodies, and Barret straightens as well. “We need to leave.”

“Got any ideas, smartass?”

Cloud doesn’t answer, gaze flitting about for a solution, but Barret knows he’ll find none. He’s spent the last hour checking every possible crevice of this building for a way out.

“What about the way you came in? That window was separate from the other ones, right? You’d have to come in from the top.” 

The fourth window had been blocked on all sides by solid scaffolding, it had been impossible to enter through. Which is the only reason Barret’s certain the infected hadn’t piled over the busted window after Cloud came inside. He’s still not sure how the hell the merc had managed to do that, but maybe he could somehow reverse it.

Unfortunately, the entire world seems to be against them today.

Cloud shakes his head. “That’s not happening,” he says, voice chillingly calm, and Barret’s blood runs cold, “walls were just shredded.”

“Shit! You can’t be-” A reverberating crack! rips through his sentence before can finish speaking, and the rise of screams as glass starts breaking has him shooting to his feet alongside Cloud.

There’s a beat when he sees the infected - dozens of them - down the sights of his gun. Cloud tensing beside him, sword raised as they spill into the store in droves, and Barret knows they aren’t going to make it out of this alive. A cacophony of moans and snarling as demented forms tear over the ground and start at them.

And then there’s another crack that splits the air, a rush of fire and debris that has Barret dropping in a second - hooking an arm around Cloud and throwing them both to the ground as a burst of heat rushes through the air above them. The concussive blast has a wave of force following not long after, tinged with red hot sparks and accompanied by the sounds of shattering glassware. 

Barret makes sure to press himself over the entirety of Cloud’s body when the shards start raining down on them, the hairs on the back of his arm burning when he curls it over his neck to protect himself. He doesn’t move - not for anything - while the fury rages on around them.

Then the explosion ends, as quick and loud as it had begun, with a vorping rush and crumbling walls. Yet even as it dies the noises don’t. 

Flames crackle loudly throughout the store, above them and beside them and all around them. A lull in the chaos replaced by the lingering presence of destruction. It takes Barret a second to catch up, blinking through the burn of smoke and wincing at the sting of glass along his back, and in that time a strong grip comes to tighten around his arm. 

The hand is small, barely able to fully wrap around his wrist. Gloved and inhumanely bruising as the body beneath him twists out from under them and hauls them both to their feet. Cloud cuts down one of the flaming, screaming infected near them with brutal efficiency and tugs violently at Barret to get him moving, sword raised as if he’s about to charge the whole damn store.

“We’ve got to move!” Cloud shouts over the din of noise, and Barret growls in annoyance, yanking his arm away with such force it briefly unbalances the merc.

“Yeah, yeah. I got the damn memo.” 

Despite his better judgement, Barret lets Cloud take the lead. He reserves the last of his ammo for an emergency, instead keeping a look out for any surprises as the merc makes a beeline straight for the doors. He hacks at any flailing limbs that even think to come their way, but in all honestly there aren’t many left. Enough to warrant some level of concern, Barret supposes, but he steps over charred remains by the dozens as he crosses to the other side of the room. 

It seems as if the bomb was thrown right in the center of the horde, with most infected burnt to barely recognizable crisps. Someone had deliberately taken them out. 

Whoever they are, they’re a hell of a bomb maker, but he wonders if they’d even known people were inside the building.

When Cloud reaches the door, Barret lays a hand on his shoulder and pulls him back, stepping forward to check out any possible threats that may be lingering in the mall center. 

There are more infected scattered about the area. Nearer to the center of the blast, the bodies are burnt and blackened, but along the edges of the horde he starts to notice the sprawling ragdoll effect of an infected shot through the head. Pools of blood spread out from those bodies, but the spatter is too indistinct for Barret to make out where the attacks came from.

“Do you see them?” Cloud asks lowly. He presses against Barret’s forearm as if to take the lead again, and Barret doesn’t relent an inch as he glares the kid into retreating behind his back.

“Settle down,” he hisses, “let me-”

“Oh hey!” It’s a woman’s voice, ringing out across from them along the upper levels, and Barret immediately snaps his gun towards the source of the noise, feeling Cloud tense against him in preparation. 

“Hey!” The woman cheers, waving her arm in the air as she jumps up and down. Barret squints over at her and tries to get a good look through the dirty glass railing, but all he sees is bouncing brown hair in a ponytail and shining metal armor.

She doesn’t sound like a threat, but she’s certainly dressed like one.

Barret prepares himself to speak, keeping his gun levelled with what he can make of her head, but before he can another voice sounds out from above them.

“What are you yelling at, Jessie? Did you mess up the bomb again?” It’s a man’s voice this time - deep and edged in humor - with just enough information to make Barret that much warier of the bouncing brunette. Not to mention the steadily growing number of people. If there are two, there can be more, and Barret’s beginning to worry that they may have just jumped from the frying pan and into the fire.

Jessie makes a sound of frustration, tsking so loudly it can be heard across the room, and points down at them in a way that has Barret about ready to fire. “No, Biggs! There were people inside!”

“Oh god, there were people?!” Another voice frets, and Barret worriedly places him on the same level as them - on the same side of the building as them - with the sudden knowledge that they are now outnumbered. He has no idea if they’re outmatched. He’s never heard of these people in his life.

He lowers his arm as he circles carefully to the edge of the doorway, standing just outside of it to allow Cloud through. He nods in the direction of the one closest to them as he keeps an eye on the woman.

“Are they okay?” The nervous one says. “Did we kill them? Oh Gaia.”

Barret snorts at the other man’s tone, the tension in his shoulders loosening slightly at the obvious worry. He can hope these are good people who’d made an honest mistake, but it’s best to be wary until he’s sure.

“No, we definitely didn’t kill them,” Jessie says, her enthusiasm waning as she speaks, “but they don’t look too friendly either.”

“We’re friendly enough,” Barret finally says, tone casual even as he keeps the gun on her, “but we did almost get burnt to crisps, so forgive me if I’m not exactly falling into your arms.”

“I didn’t mean to hurt anybody. I’m so sorry!” Jessie calls down to them, and damn if she doesn’t sound it. Barret loosens a bit more, gun dipping in a show of peace.

“It’s fine. Barely got a scratch.” 

“Well, at least we didn’t commit murder,” the man above them says drily, and Barret can’t believe his ears when Cloud huffs out what must be a laugh beside him.

“There’s always a second time,” he deadpans, unfazed by Barret’s glare.

The man barks out a laugh in response, leaning over the railing to see them better, and when Barret notices his head poking out he steps further into the mall center to get a better look at the whole group. 

None of them have their weapons readied, or appear remotely violent. The one above them is grinning and Jessie has been nothing but cheerful. So Barret makes a decision. Still eyeing them all warily, he lowers his gun fully.

Cloud quirks a brow when he does so, letting the tip of his sword drop to the ground as well, but he doesn’t offer up any other fascinating pieces of commentary. Apparently the wisecracks are only for special occasions.

Barret looks up at the two strangers again. “Who the hell are you people?”

“Oh! I’m Biggs,” the man above them says, pointing a thumb at his chest and nodding. “That one over there is Jessie, in case you didn’t hear. And that’s Wedge!” He points over to the third member a short distance away, who’s gathered the courage to come out into full view from around the corner. Wedge waves over at them with a smile, and Barret will be damned if these people aren’t the cheeriest motherfuckers in the world right now. 

Of course, that thought is proved wrong not two seconds later when Jessie’s voice rings out nervous and worried through the air. “Hey guys? I’m seeing some movement up here and down the hallways. Maybe we should take this outside.”

“Explosion was bound to draw other infected,” Barret snorts, “did you guys plan this at all?”

“We planned it enough!” Jessie huffs, moving away from the railing to head toward the stairs, “we were just here to test-”

She cuts herself off with a high, startled gasp as a guttural howl tears through the air. The next moment has her teammates crying out as her upper body collides brutally with the railing, hand hitting the hard glass hard enough to jar the gun from her fingers, and it falls the long distance to the floor with a clatter.

Then Barret’s moving, as Biggs races to help his friend and Jessie scrambles at the slick glass to brace herself, kicking at the infected behind her. It claws up her back and raises its head, jaws stretched wide, and Barret curses, firing a round into it without hesitation. 

It’s throat explodes in a spatter of blood, and Jessie gasps when it’s hold only tightens. The thing lets out a keening noise as it thrashes, practically throwing Jessie through the air, and even as Barret puts another bullet straight into its head he knows it won’t be enough.

“Jessie!” Biggs skids to a stop at the railing just as she tumbles over the edge, and Barret doesn’t stop for a second to think before he’s charging across the room. He drops his gun and slides beneath her just in time to feel the brunt of her weight. Catching her around the waist with one arm and feeling her head whip violently back into his chest as he allows himself to drop to the floor and soften her fall.

The collision knocks the breath from his lungs and sends a flare of pain down his back, but all he can do is let out a sigh of relief at the very alive woman in his arms right now. 

That had been way too close.

“Oh Gaia! Oh- Jessie!” There’s a rush of steps as Wedge runs over to them, and Jessie groans in response.

“It’s fine, Wedge,” she says, voice strained, “I’ve only broken every bone in my body.”

Wedge lets out a relieved breath, helping to pull her to feet as Barret pushes her upright.

“Whoo!” She breathes, jumping and shaking out her arms before turning to give him a big smile and a playful wink. “That was some fall. Luckily I had my hero here to save me, huh?”

“You’re lucky he was there, Jessie,” Biggs says, thumping down the steps and coming up to them as well, “otherwise you’d be paste.”

He grabs her arm and pulls her into a hug, and Barret chuckles as he pushes himself to his feet as well.

“Glad I could help, but it looks like you’ve got quite the set of friends here. They’d’ve found a way to save you.”

Wedge gives him a grateful smile, but Barret can see the beginnings of a guilt he knows all too well. He pats a comforting hand on the guy’s shoulder and nods. 

“You did good.”

“We all did good!”

“That’s cute and all, but we really should get going,” Cloud's voice cuts through the cheer like a knife, and Barret turns to see him coming up beside them with his sword at the ready. He looks unconcerned with the situation, but Barret notices him casting about for potential threats. His eyes linger on a group of infected meandering over from one of the halls, and when he sees Barret looking he nods at them.

“Yeah, I see it. Shit.” Barret runs a hand through his hair and bends to pick up Jessie’s gun first, handing it over to her before equipping his own.

It slides through her fingers like it’s the most natural thing in the world, and her grip tightens around the handle as she grins at them both. “That’s no problem! We know a way out.”

“A way that isn’t riddled with zombies?” Cloud asks, pointing down another hallway. The area is slowly filling with infected, and Barret herds the group closer together. 

Cloud stands apart from them, eyeing the infected approaching them with unusual gusto. 

“Have a little faith, man! Wedge is the best at this kind of thing.”

“Yeah, I’ve already got a route.”

“Then use it,” Cloud snaps.

Wedge yelps. “Y-yeah. Yeah! Come on.”

With surprising speed and efficiency, he’s turning to head down the nearest hall, Jessie and Biggs immediately following behind him and waving Barret along. The easy way they all carry out the plan is impressive, and Barret takes up the rear without question, determined to get these people out of here alive. 

What’s truly surprising, however, is the way Cloud lingers behind, another hand coming down to grip his sword as he turns to jog toward the nearest horde.

“I’ve got your backs,” he calls after them, “don’t wait up.”

“Then I’m staying too! I’ll cover you.”

“Don’t bother.”

The cold dismissal has Barret’s chest heating with anger, but he knows the merc is right. At this point, he’d be more of a liability than an asset.

“You’d best meet us at the front entrance, SOLDIER boy!” He makes it sound like an order, but knowing Cloud it probably means he’ll do the exact opposite.

“Good luck!” Jessie throws behind her with a small wave, accentuated by Biggs’s own cursory thumbs up, and all Barret hears is Cloud’s grunt of acknowledgement before they’re turning the corner and leaving him in the dust.

Winding through the building after that is a strange affair. The group he’s met are all talkers, chatting excitedly and bickering even in the midst of danger. They’re good shots, too. Biggs and Jessie especially, who take up attacking at a distance while Wedge focuses on navigating.

They’re quick with their words and quick on their feet, but it’s still a shock to the whole group when an infected lunges from a nearby store and latches onto Wedge with a scream. Biggs shouts and staggers back, foot caught in the clawing grip of one they’d thought they downed, and within a matter of seconds the comfortable solitude of their journey is destroyed.

Barret reacts in a flash, shooting the one on Wedge in a throwaway attack, splintering the infected’s jaw with a sickening crack as he stomps on the one attached to Biggs with a roar. He hears a series of pops after that as Wedge gets the opportunity to down his attacker, and that’s when Barret sees more. Slinking from surrounding stories and halls, slithering along the floors with cracked nails and dripping mouths. Caging them in on all sides.

“Move! Damnit!”

More rounds are fired as the infected close in on them, Wedge spraying the front line in bullets as Jessie and Biggs take them out with headshots and busted kneecaps. An infected manages to get a hold of Barret’s arm as he tries bash in its skull with his gun, jaws opened wide as it lunges in for a bite, and for a moment the world stops. Thoughts of Marlene and home and failure burning through his mind until a sword is splitting its head in two, Cloud kicking the body aside as if it’s nothing. 

He grabs Barret by the shoulder as the shock fades and spins him to face the others. Then blows straight through the group to take the lead, slashing apart the infected blocking their path with an arc of fiery steel.

Gaia, Barret never thought he’d be so happy to see a SOLDIER in his life.

“Let’s mosey,” Cloud says, and for once the collected tone of his voice doesn’t set Barret off.

“You heard the merc! Move!”

Wedge doesn’t need to be told twice, rushing forward alongside Cloud as the SOLDIER continues to hack a path through the infected. Barret recovers rapidly, ushering Jessie and Biggs forward as they continue to focus on the infected at their sides. 

They turn the corner to see more infected crawling out of the woodworks, but Cloud is relentless and Barret is vicious, the rest of the group pushing forward with the type of determination Barret could only dream of, and for a second he thinks they might actually get out of this scott free.

Then Biggs cries out, folding at the knees as they all pass ahead, and Barret skids to stop. 

“Fuck!” The whole party starts to slow as they realize what happened.

“What do we do? Oh, shit!” Jessie panics, and Wedge shakes his head, firing another round into the front lines as he points down the hall.

“It’s down there,” he yells back at them, “we just need to move.”

Barret nods and turns on his heel, racing back to grab the other man before the infected get to him.

“Go on ahead!” He shouts back, waving them away as he comes to a skidding halt beside Biggs. He’s grateful when Cloud seems to take the order in stride, already circling around to hold the rear as Wedge reluctantly pushes on ahead.

“Just leave me,” Biggs hisses, clutching at the blood soaked remains of his pants. The cut he has along his lower leg is long and weeping, but there’s no way in hell Barret’s leaving him behind. “Please just-”

“Shut the hell up! Shit-” Barret scoops Biggs up and throws him over his shoulder, ignoring his cursing protests as he waves his broken arm at their exit. “-we’re all gonna make it out of this alive!”

He runs for the exit, seeing the rest of the group just beginning to gather outside.

“Heya Jessie!” He calls out, bursting through the doors just as they’re starting to close, “got any more of those bombs?”

The grin that lights up her face is absolutely wicked, and Barret steps back with the others as she grabs a grenade from her belt pouch and wings up. With a warcry of “watch the fuck out, bitches!” she launches it through the air.

The ensuing blast is enough to make them all turn away and shield their eyes, Barret realizing a bit too late that he’d lost his sunglasses somewhere along the way, and when they all turn to face each other again it’s with wide, triumphant grins. Wedge laughs as Jessie lets out a whoop, and Barret can feel the body on his shoulders loosen with relief. Cloud lingers at the outskirts, but he doesn’t look as put out as he usually does, mouth soft with the hint of a smile.

“Good job,” Barret says, “I ain’t never seen a better team in my life.”

“We’re a team, now?” Biggs asks, voice lilting and delirious, and Jessie gasps.

“We should be! Imagine what we could all do together.”

“I think that'd be pretty nice,” Wedge agrees.

Barret snorts, but he doesn’t deny it - can’t even say he doesn’t feel the same way. So he hefts Biggs further up on his shoulders and grins.

“I wouldn’t mind working with y’all again, but right now we should probably get him taken care of. How close is your camp?”

“Oh, uh…we don’t exactly have one…” Wedge laughs uneasily and fidgets, Jessie crossing her arms beside him.

“It’s because we just got here. We drove in from a nearby Camp and we haven’t had the chance to get settled.”

“But you did have the chance to test bombs.” Cloud doesn’t exactly sound sold, but Barret’s mind has already honed in on something else.

“Y’all got cars?” he asks excitedly, and at their nods he whoops, “aight! We’re headin’ back to my camp, and you can stay there for as long as you need!”

“You’re short on transport, huh?” Biggs sympathizes breathlessly, “we’re short on shelter. Maybe we can make this work.”

“We’re still lookin’ for a good house, but we’ve got tents and a decent cooking station, not to mention we’re well hidden from any Mobs.”

“You’ve already got me sold!” Jessie laughs, “follow me and we can load Biggs up.”

“Yeah…” Wedge says, tone worried, “he’s looking pretty out of it…”

Barret winces when he feels Biggs’ weight slacken completely, nodding at Jessie and Wedge to lead the way. 

“We should probably get going, then.”

Jessie and Wedge grin eagerly, already heading across the parking lot to their cars, and it takes Barret a good few steps to realize someone is missing. He sighs lengthily and turns around with a scowl.

“The hell you doin’ back there?”

Cloud only shrugs and walks over to a motorcycle parked not too far away. “Sorry, I’ve already got a ride.”

“Where the hell did you get a bike from?!”

Cloud hums and revs the engine, turning to look at Barret with raised eyebrows. “I sold your truck.”

“Wha-”

“It was a nice car, Barret. Shame you let it go!”

Then with a roar he’s peeling out of the parking lot, whipping around the bend of the building as Barret stares in open mouthed shock. It takes him a moment to realize what just happened, and when he does the rage that fills him is incandescent.

“Son of a bitch!”

---

Biggs, Wedge, and Jessie end up staying. 

It’s almost startling, how they fill up every space like they’ve never been anywhere else. Bundling their cars along the path and pouring from the doors to greet Tifa and Marlene. They’re quick to pull up tents and set up bags, divvying chores around camp with nothing but the barest minimum of playful complaints. 

By the end of the week it’s like camp has never been solemn and quiet, only broken occasionally by good cheer. Because now it’s wild laughter and at least one conversation going at all times, an energetic atmosphere that has Tifa letting the rest of her tension go and Marlene jumping around in the mornings, play fighting with Biggs and watching Jessie build her tools with burning curiosity, helping Wedge to cook and bonding with him over the animals in her picture books.

Jessie helps Barret with his arm, too, in an unexpected turn of events that has Barret almost wanting to cry, Marlene squealing with excitement beside him. Apparently, her and Biggs are both good enough with electronics to attach an advanced prosthetic, and capable enough to go out on their own one quiet night to find him a working one.

It’s a metal arm instead of a gun, but Barret couldn’t care less. They’d risked life and limb invading a rundown facility to bring it to him, and the level of devotion and care they put into removing the old painful pieces and putting in the new ones is enough to make him love them.

And Gaia, he really does love them all. Wedge with his faithful optimism and Biggs with his rough edged compassion and easy going nature. Jessie with her giggling mischief and boundless support for others. His family.

They stay a long time. They stay months. And it’s them that stay behind when Barret goes out with Tifa to find a home. Them that watch Marlene and take care of camp in his absence and them that help the group move into the house Barret finally finds, just at winter’s cusp.

When they all spill into every crook and cranny of their new building, claiming rooms as Tifa carries Marlene inside and Barret eagerly stocks the kitchen, he can’t help thinking that this time, things are really looking up for them.

This time, things have changed.

---

Their new home is a two story building. Solid and sturdy and located deep in the forest, with only a winding trail to lead them out. It’s what will keep them safe from the Mobs, Barret knows, but everybody takes to the clearing and the surrounding forest with especial interest.

Tifa takes up practicing her fighting out back. She sets up a punching bag in the basement but she hardly uses it, preferring to move under the light of the sun as she trains. It’s quite the spectacle. An easygoing, zen-like atmosphere that brings a comfortable blanket of warmth over the winter mornings.

Marlene especially loves Tifa’s practice sessions, and it’s one of the only ways Barret can get her to wake up on time now. She adores watching Tifa flow through her moves, and it soon becomes routine for her to sit outside and observe, wide eyed with awe and filled to brimming with questions. 

Tifa answers them all patiently, laughing along as she practically dances across their lawn, and sometimes Barret will sit too, just to enjoy the peace.

“You can practice as well, you know,” she tells him one day, brow furrowed in concentration as she drops to hold a particularly difficult position.

“What would I have to practice?”

“Daddy doesn’t know how to fight!”

Barret scoffs with offense. “I know plenty.”

Tifa laughs, shifting like water to pull up her leg and punch viciously at the air. “For your arm or your shooting! Maybe you could even practice wrestling.”

“Wrestling, huh?” he chuckles. 

She snorts. “You’ve got the build for it.”

“Suppose I do.”

“Everybody else has joined me before. Wedge has an exercise routine that he works through out here when he’s feeling confident, although I think he still mostly does it in the basement. Jessie fiddles with her bombs sometimes, but most of the time she’ll let me teach her some moves.”

“You offering lessons?”

“Only to those who want them. Biggs occasionally will, but he primarily comes out here to play with Marlene.”

“We’re reading Madeline! I almost know aaalll the words.”

“Is that so?”

“Uh-huh! Uncle Biggs says I’m the smartest little girl he’s ever met ever.”

“Well, of course he did. My angel could run the whole universe if she wanted to.”

Marlene giggles and blushes, scooching closer for a sideways hug as the conversation fades. The only sounds for a time are birds chirping and leaves rustling, Tifa’s breaths punching from the tight coil of her stomach as she moves, sweat glistening in the sun.

“I’m only saying…” she breathes after a time, “that you could get out of the house more.”

“This an intervention?”

“You’ve been a bit of a shut in lately, Barret. We’re all worried.”

It’s that feeling, the feeling of being worried about - of having people around to care what he does and how he acts - that pushes Barret to take up practicing as well. It’s melee fighting, mostly, and physical therapy with his new arm. Working over the throbbing aches in the muscle around the scarring that had gotten fried for months with small shocks.

By the middle of winter, Barret is thoroughly exhausted and pleased in a way he hasn’t been for years, at ease with his body and with his family. Spending time with Marlene in the comfort of knowing they’re safe and that she’s cared for - that she’ll be cared for no matter what happens. 

So winter passes without trouble. Soft and warm, despite the fall of snow, in the thick of his family and the feeling of being loved.

---

Springtime rolls around not with a bang but with a whimper. Sliding into their lives on cool breezes and bright, blooming flowers. Falling in on the roll of words and strange circumstances. Endless food supplies and restocked medicines and a new picture book appearing in Marlene’s hands that Barret’s swears he’s never seen before in his life.

He hears about Cloud before he sees him.

It happens first when he’s in the kitchen. The fruit bowl is full through no action of anybody in the house. Filled mysteriously for what has to be the fifth time that season, and finally Barret can’t take it anymore. So when Tifa passes through the room he takes the opportunity for what it is.

“Hey, Tifa!” He calls to get her attention, “we were out of pears two days ago, right?”

She stops and brushes the bangs from her eyes with a fond smile. “Oh yeah, Cloud brought some back after I told him we were out.”

Cloud? When the hell had Cloud come around?

How did he even find them?

“Why were you talkin’ with that thief? You know what he did, right?” Barret can count on one hand the amount of times Cloud has betrayed him, but it’s still too many.

Unfortunately, Tifa doesn’t seem to think so. “He isn’t doing any harm, Barret.” She rolls her eyes at his scowl. “It was just some supplies.”

“Did you pay him for them?” If Cloud has asked for a single cent off of Tifa, Barret’s going to put him so far underground he won’t ever see the light of day again.

“No, Barret,” she huffs, crossing her arms, “I didn’t even ask for them. Now leave Cloud alone.”

“If he wanted to be a damn decent person, the least he could do is be less of a coward about it and show his damn face!”

“If you want him to stay, you’re going to have to ask him yourself. I’ve already tried.”

She walks away after that, not at all fazed by Barret’s steaming indignation as he grinds into the empty air, “I don’t want him to stay!” 

He doesn’t.

Nobody answers.

Two days later, it’s Marlene who mentions him. She’s got another pretty coloring book and a new set of crayons, and Barret forgets for a moment about the whole fiasco until he asks her where she got them.

“Cloud gave them to me!” she exclaims excitedly, pulling open the pages to wave a tiny, shittily drawn pencil flower in his face.

“The hell is that?”

“A flower. Cloud drew it! We drew together!”

“You drew together?! When was this? How long did he stay?”

And how the hell hadn’t he noticed?

Marlene puffs up at the question, thinking long and hard before nodding decisively and saying, “Super long! It was like...an hour.”

“A whole hour? And this was all he drew? Baby, you got robbed.”

It takes an effort to remain lighthearted in the face of this intrusion, but Tifa’s right about nobody getting hurt, and Barret is loathe to see the smile fade from his little girl’s face.

“I told you he was family, Daddy.”

“Yeah…yeah, you did.”

Family doesn’t leave each other behind, though. And Cloud’s left them all twice now.

Unfortunately, the little snippets of conversation about Cloud don’t end there. First it’s Tifa and Marlene and then it’s crutches for Biggs and painkillers when Barret’s arm starts acting up, despite the fact that he’d never told a soul. Jessie rambles praises about Cloud’s skill out on missions and Wedge offers shy assertions of what Cloud is like as a friend.

It isn’t a lot. Doesn’t permeate their home or destroy the peace. Yet it still drives Barret mad. The entire team has seen or interacted with Cloud since he left. Everybody has spent time with him or talked to him in some small capacity.

Everybody but Barret.

“He’s got a pretty red scarf now,” Marlene tells him one day, as they’re out picking flowers for the dinner table, “and his clothes are all blue. I liked him better in black.” She makes a face and Barret can’t help but laugh, though there’s a weight settling in his gut that feels a lot like dissatisfaction.

“Well, maybe the next time I see him I’ll tell him he looks like a fool.”

“No!” she giggles, “you’ll make him sad!”

“If he can’t handle a little honest criticism, then maybe he deserves to be sad. Hell, his ego could probably use the reality check.”

Marlene hums. “What’s an ego?”

“It means you...well, having a big ego means that you think you’re better than everybody else. It makes you look down on other people and feel like you’re the most important.”

“Oh…” Marlene seems to mull this over for a moment, and Barret busies himself with finding the prettiest damn flowers in the clearing as he waits. Until finally she hums, biting her lip and toying with the ripped edges of the flower stems clumped in her fist. “I don’t think he’s like that, Daddy. I think he just wants to be liked.”

Barret snorts in disbelief. “Yeah, well he’s got a funny way of showing it.”

Marlene thinks for another second as she pulls up more flowers. “I like him,” she eventually says, small and uncertain, and Barret sighs.

“I do too,” he tells her, and the words feel too right on his tongue to be a lie, but he convinces himself of it anyway, “now let’s finish this up before everybody eats without us.”

The day ends on a peaceful note, with Marlene forgetting about the conservation and Barret pushing it to the back of his mind, but every so often the little things will bring it forward again. Small comments and throwaway lines. The house slowly filling with the presence of not six people, like he’d expected, but seven.

Except their seventh member isn’t there. And every day his presence lingers like a shadow instead of a light, Barret finds himself growing unhappier.

He doesn’t like the kid, but hell, he’d certainly appreciate having him around.

---

It’s a woman’s scream that changes things again. A woman’s scream that turns the world around, heard high and frightened over the boughs of the trees when Barret is out on patrol with Tifa. 

It’s the close vicinity to their home as well as the sheer terror in her voice that makes Barret come running, and he only shares a brief look with Tifa before they’re both tearing through the trees. Racing like a fire is licking at their heels as they burst abruptly through the treeline and come stumbling out into a clearing filled with infected.

Barret manages to skid to a halt nearer the trees, but Tifa flies a good few feet further before she tucks and rolls amidst the thick field of flowers and comes to a smooth stop. 

It’s the high, panicked shouts that has them both looking up to see a girl - large green eyes and soft brown ringlets - standing high on the peak of a boulder. She’s surrounded on all sides by a horde of infuriated infected, carrying a basket full of flowers and waving a staff at them with violent intent.

“Stay- Stay back!” She shuffles backwards and gasps when her foot slips, rocks crumbling beneath her weight. Within seconds Tifa is launching over to her, kicking the nearest infected in the head with such force it’s sent flying backwards.

“Don’t move!” she calls up to the girl, garnering her wide eyed attention, “stay right there and we’ll take care of this, okay?”

Barret nods and comes forward, pulling out his handgun to fire an ear splitting round into one that’s managed to crawl halfway up the boulder. It falls and crushes a good few of it’s friends, and the girl’s mouth quickly turns to an ‘o’ of awe as she watches Tifa punch another one straight to the ground.

“We got this taken care of,” he says, taking out a good ten more before reloading with rapid efficiency. 

Tifa’s a whirlwind of spins and kicks as she tears through the center of the horde, stopping at the base of the boulder for only a second to look up at the girl again, panting and brushing the hair from her eyes as she smiles softly. “You just worry about not fallin’ down, okay?” she says, voice warm.

“Okay…” the girl sighs dreamily, standing her staff upright and leaning on it to peer over the edge at Tifa, “my name’s Aerith.”

“Oh! Uh...nice to meet ya, Aerith. I’m Tifa and that’s Barret.”

Barret growls and shoots down another dozen, glowering at Tifa’s back. “Hey! Fight now, chat later, Prince Charming.”

“Right!” She high kicks an infected clean through the jaw and doesn’t even pause as she whirls around and drives her heel into another. “On it.”

Barret has to reload another time as Tifa covers herself, and she wastes no time in reducing the rest of the infected to a downed pile of bodies. He pops off the last remaining stragglers and heads over, holding out a hand to first grab Aerith’s basket and lower it to the ground. Then he raises his arm so Aerith can brace herself against him and slide down. 

“You’re going to be just fine,” he soothes as Tifa grabs her around the waist and lowers her the rest of the way, “barely a scratch on you.”

“Oh, I can take care of myself,” she sniffs, hefting her staff over her shoulder as she leans down to pick up her basket, “but the first twenty drained my mana quite unexpectedly. Usually I’ve got better stamina.”

“You’re a conjurer?” Barret asks, silently offering to take the basket from her as Tifa helps her across the pile of bodies. She hands it to him and nods with a sharp mhm!

“I’ve been using magic since I was a little girl. There are a lot of spellcasters now who’ve run dry, but the planet provides all the energy I need.”

“She does wonders for us everyday,” Barret agrees, cradling her flower basket gingerly. They cross the field slowly, with Aerith at first having trouble stumbling over the infected and later pausing to pick flowers at any given moment. 

“Why are you all the way out here, anyway?” Tifa asks her, bending down to pick some as well. She hands them to Aerith with a shy smile and Aerith plucks them from her fingers as if they’re made of spun gold.

“This area has the best flowers.” Aerith hums and tucks Tifa’s choice away behind her ear, holding the other out to Barret.

He chuckles and accepts it gracefully, doing the same with rising amusement as he watches the blush on Tifa’s face darken. 

“I’m- I’m sorry your spot got ruined,” she manages after a time, as they all come to a halt at the treeline, “we have another...another field full of flowers- closer to home.”

“You live around here?” Aerith asks, and Barret only feels the faintest hint of suspicion at the question, considering how sweetly it was asked and how strange the circumstances are. He doubts this girl has any ill will toward them.

“Yeah,” he says, “down by the river. It’s a bit of a clearing in the trees. Far enough away from the roads so we don’t run into trouble. We’ve got a few others there as well.”

Aerith’s smile turns painfully reminiscent, cheerful eyes going vacant with a painful memory. “I used to have a home like that,” she says lowly, looking down at her staff to play her fingers over the rough edges, “it was the most beautiful place I’d ever seen. Ringed in gardens and covered in nature’s love; the flowers went on for miles in every direction.”

“I’m sure your new home is just as lovely.”

“Oh, I don’t have a home anymore.”

Tifa hesitates, glancing over at Barret in question, and he nods. His heart already aches with Aerith’s solemnity, and he wishes for nothing more than to help her. 

“Would you like to come have dinner with us?” Tifa asks softly, grabbing Aerith lightly by the elbow. Her red eyes are tender as she catches Aerith’s own brilliant green, and she smiles with nothing but sweet compassion. “We’d love to have you.”

“It ain’t no nature’s lover, but it looks mighty fine, if I do say so myself,” Barret adds in. His heart lightens when he hears Aerith laugh, and they share a triumphant look over her head as Aerith straightens and pulls Tifa closer, jutting her chin in Barret’s direction.

“Lead the way, then. I’d love to see your home.”

So Barret leads the way. 

The conversation as they walk is mellow, not fraught with anything but the settle of indolent satisfaction, and they bask in each other’s company as they gather flowers on the path home.

Aerith beams when she sees their house, utterly delighted. She enters with awe and she sits at their table and she eats with enthusiasm, sharing stories with Barret’s family and never once finding fault in them. Afterward, flowers spread across the house throughout the evening’s waning glow. As she and Marlene work to place the brightly colored plants on every windowsill, giggling and talking about nature and magic and the flow of the universe, full and sated and happy.

Then it turns dark and the night falls too suddenly, so Barret offers for her to stay the night. She agrees to a chorus of cheers, Jessie snorting and throwing an arm around her shoulder as Biggs and Wedge fight to show off her room.

Barret watches it all happen from the kitchen, lingering by the sink to dry dishes as Tifa washes them.

“Do you think she’ll stay?” Tifa asks, in the quiet of the night with the gentle lull of voices not too far away.

Barret chuckles. “Oh yeah, she’ll stay.”

One night staying over turns to one more day turns to just one more night. On and on until they find that Aerith has, indeed, never left. 

And she never does, brightening their world that much more with her radiance.

---

There are some things about his family that Barret can’t fix. Things like Wedge’s insecurity and Tifa’s shy anxiety - Aerith’s stubborn independence and Jessie’s proactive dynamo and Biggs’s choice to put everybody else before himself. Things that tear them up inside and wring them out. Things that sometimes make them have bad days and good days. 

Things that sometimes bring them to him, no matter how much he knows and they know that he can’t do a thing about it.

“My father was in a coma,” Jessie tells him one day, completely out of the blue. She’s tinkering with a grenade and eyeing blueprints, body open and at ease, but there’s a tension in her shoulders, tongue peaking out between her teeth. “It was because of the mako in Shinra buildings. He’s been like that for years, he- was like that for years.”

“I’m sorry, Jessie.”

“Yeah? You’ve always hated Shinra. You probably would have hated my father for working for them.”

“That’s not true. I trusted them, too, and my home was destroyed because of my mistake,” he says softly, taking off his sunglasses to meet her eyes. She blinks over at him and he can see the jump in her shoulders, but when she looks back down at her work again she forces a smile.

“Guess we both got taken in by the big shiny slogan, huh?”

“Yeah.” It isn’t enough, Barret knows. It will never be enough. So he lets the silence fall as they work, and Jessie opens up again only a few minutes later.

“My mother used to cook these big meals, and she’d always leave the light on in case I ever returned home, but...I rarely did.” She pauses and lets a smaller, more solemn smile settle on her lips, and despite the fact that it’s that much sadder, Barret’s relieved to see that it’s a genuine display. 

“Wedge would have loved her cooking,” Jessie says with a chuckle, “you all probably would. Bunch of starved barbarians.”

Barret snorts out a laugh. “You can say that again.”

Another silence descends, thick with a mourning Barret doesn’t think Jessie’s let herself feel for a moment since this started, and he relaxes into a solid and supportive presence at her side; unmoving.

“I think I’d have liked to meet your mother,” he offers into the quiet, and Jessie smiles.

“Yeah, she’d have liked to meet you, too.”

Jessie...Jessie speaks. But nobody reacts the same to trauma and grief, and the others don’t speak so much as let it sink into their lives.

Wedge holds himself together differently than the rest. Always worried and endlessly kind, like a nerve exposed to the cruelty of the world. He’s stronger than most of them, Barret knows. He’s more powerful than he ever seems to realize. Yet there is nothing Barret can say to help him - no words that can break the cycle Wedge has trapped himself in - so Barret doesn’t use words. 

He uses action.

Every second of every day. Every time he sees Wedge succeed and power through. Every time he sees him fail and sink into depression. Every time Wedge does anything emotional or physical or just plain simple, Barret is there for him. With honest praise and constant check-ups, showing the man that he is loved and that he has friends.

It warms Barret when he sees the others doing the same, supporting Wedge through his trials and lifting him further when he flies - never giving up on him. 

There’s a stream of humor throughout as well. Biggs and Jessie’s understanding and respect masked as playful jabs. Laughter and claps on the shoulder and sideways hugs; Biggs using Wedge’s shoulder to walk as he rambles in his ear and Jessie making his favorite foods after a hard mission; Tifa sharing stories of her childhood with Wedge so he can do the same and Marlene drawing him pictures of flowers and hearts and heroic deeds. Even Aerith, new to their family and still finding where she fits, takes Wedge out with her to collect flowers and occasionally raid old homes for food. Barret doesn’t know what they talk about, but they both always come back looking lighter than when they’d left.

The team comes together with their own faults and their own troubles like broken glass, but they don’t scratch and they don’t break, and Barret has never been more proud to call these people his family.

Barret finds himself the closest with Tifa, though. Even as he settles contentedly into the swirling, chaotically unique lives of the people around him.

Tifa carries the world on her shoulders. Always tense and always angry; rage simmering beneath the surface of calm.

Barret gets that - he understands it.

Tifa’s close with everybody in their growing family - especially Aerith, once she pops into their lives -  but she spends the most time with Barret. It was them before anybody else, after all. Taking care of Marlene and fighting together. It had been Tifa’s heart of gold that had encouraged him to open his life to her and let her in. It had been her steady presence that had allowed him to let in others.

Barret loves this woman with his everything, almost as much as he loves Marlene.

So it hurts when one day, after a failed mission, skin littered in burns and cuts and fists clenched with a rage she could never safely release, she looks at him as if she’s failed him, too. As if she’s failed the world.

“I’m sorry, Barret,” she chokes out, “I’m-”

He catches her hand in his own and soothes the tension, tugging her forward until she’s pressed against his chest. When she doesn’t pull away he wraps his arms around her, cradling her as gently as he can, and sinks his fingers into her hair.

“You have nothing to be sorry for.”

“I do,” she cries, shoulders heaving and body quaking, and he gentles her with small movements, rubbing his thumb in light circles and shushing her softly. “I do, I’ve failed- so many people.”

“Not me,” he assures her, “never me. And never them.”

“We needed that-”

“Not at much as we need you. Never as much as we need you.”

It won’t fix anything. It never fixes anything. But he holds her as she cries and he lets her know she has a family, and he hopes it’s enough.

It was enough for him.

---

Marlene is able to make him crowns of real flowers, now that they have a true home. They’re picked wild from the forest every day, and when spring rolls into summer she finds daisies and leaves and little patches of thimbleweed to weave all kinds of accessories.

It’s a decent way to occupy her time, and Barret will often make crowns with her on the back porch when can. Sometimes they’ll watch Tifa practice when they do so. Sometimes they even get to see Biggs competing with Jessie or Aerith casting her spells. Most of the time, they try to do it around midday, when everybody is inside and it’s just the two of them, cheerful conversations at their back and the stretch of sunlit forest before them.

“Does the planet make flowers because they’re meant to be crowns?” Marlene asks on a particularly sunny day. It’s distracted and dim - a passing curiosity - but Barret answers anyway.

“The planet makes flowers because they help the world go round,” he tells her, “ and because they look beautiful.”

“She must work very hard.”

Barret chuckles and holds out his crown for her, waiting until she’s dipped her head with a beaming smile to put it on her.

“Yeah, angel,” he says eventually, tucking a strand of hair behind her ears. He lifts her chin to kiss her on the forehead and hums. “But it’s worth it to create such beauty in the world every day.”

“Does she ever get a break?” Marlene asks, eyes wide with worry as she peers up at him.

“Well, I’m sure she doesn’t see what she’s doing as work, baby. She takes care of us because she loves us, and because the world is hers.”

“Oh,” Marlene whispers, and he frowns in confusion as she turns her head to study her crown, fiddling with the small petals embedded throughout.

“What’s this about, baby?”

“Hm, nothing!” She gives him a big smile, full of a softness and an understanding he’s never seen in her eyes before today. She stands and rises on her toes to lift her crown to his head, then, sincere and sweet as honey, “I just think you’re a lot like the planet, Daddy.”

He blinks at her when she pats him on the head, crushing a stray few flowers by accident, before whirling around with a twirl of her pretty pink dress to head back inside. The door closes behind her with a thud, and Barret blinks again.

“‘Like the planet’, huh? Well shit,” he sighs, “least I don’t got mako in my veins.”

---

When Barret finally sees Cloud again, it’s almost a full year after they’d last spoken, and with only short anecdotes to let Barret know how the kid’s been doing in the interim, it’s no surprise that he almost doesn’t recognize Cloud when he lays eyes on him. Though when he does, he can’t say he’s overjoyed.

The first thing he notices is that Cloud’s got on the red scarf Marlene had mentioned, though it’s tattered and torn now, curling behind him in the light winds as he stands amidst the massacre of the infected all around him. It’s stark against the vivid blue of his outfit, but the browns in his boots and the leather straps criss crossing his chest tone the whole thing down a notch.

It’s still enough to make Barret squint in disbelief.

“The hell are you doin’ up here, merc?” he snaps, drawing the blonde’s attention to him in sharp assessment. The hard edges of Cloud’s expression fall away when he catches sight of Barret, though, eyes widening for a second in surprise before he’s recovering and pulling his mask back into place. 

Barret sighs. “Why are you so near to the city? Ya got a job in that hellhole? ‘Cause I can tell you right now that no amount of gil is worth it.”

Cloud blinks at him. “That’s really none of your business.”

“It is my business when I’ve got five people back at home worried about your hard boiled ass,” Barret growls, hackles rising at the tone.

Cloud only gives him a condescending once over, turning away in clear dismissal. “Then maybe you should worry less about others and more about yourself.”

Barret’s blood boils. “The hell did you say to me?!”

“Your sacrifice is award worthy, but nobody’s forcing you to bask in my presence. Leave if it bothers you.”

“What has gotten into you?”

“Exactly what you expected of a former SOLDIER, or don’t you remember?”

Barret frowns at that, gritting his teeth against a cutting response as he lets the merc sit on the words he’d just said. There’s a long silence, Cloud’s gaze flickering to Barret and then away, face still stoically neutral. He wavers for a split second, hand tightening around his sword, then swallows.

“...they killed Zack.”

“What, the SOLDIER?”

“My friend.” It’s a startling rebuke, but it isn’t waspish or clipped at all. Cloud sounds almost empty, teetering on the edge of some unnamed emotion, and Barret has the feeling that he’ll never see the kid again if he happens to fall in the wrong damn direction.

Why do I care?

“Are they inside the city?” 

For Tifa. And the others.

“No,” Cloud’s voice cracks on the word, composure crumbling for a second as he struggles to regain control, “they left- they-” His voice breaks again and he falls silent. His shoulders rise and his gloves strain in a death grip around the hilt of his sword, but he doesn’t say another word.

“Were you going to kill them?” Barret asks, worried more for Cloud than the assholes that had almost murdered him in cold blood. And hell, okay, so maybe Barret does like the merc after all, but nobody has to know that except him.

“I was going to avenge him,” Cloud says, voice almost a whisper. He looks down and burrows into his scarf, shoulders up to his ears with what has to be agonizing tension, and Barret approaches with slow steps as the kid begins to tremble.

“How were you going to do that?”

“By- I don’t know- I wanted to…” he swallows roughly, closing his eyes and wrapping both hands around the hilt of his sword. He brings it closer to his chest in the parody of a hug and casts a sideways glance at Barret again. His gaze is split open now, emotions a roiling mass of pain and misery, and he curls his entire body inward as if to protect himself from the world.

Barret’s heart pangs, throat closing in something like grief for a man he doesn’t even know, and watches as the strongest person he’s ever met crumples further with every second he’s left standing alone.

“There’s nothing wrong with wanting justice,” Barret tells him, stopping a short distance away, “You must have loved him a lot.”

Cloud nods, short and stilted, bringing the sword even closer as he speaks. “This was his,” he whispers, “it’s not- it’s not mine. I don’t know if I could...if I could kill them- with it.”

He says it like he’s ashamed, and Barret wants to tell him he doesn’t have to be - wants to say a dozen things he never could.

“He was a good man?” Barret asks in place of it all, “is that why?”

“Yeah.” Cloud’s voice cracks on the well of tears this time around, and he hisses as he runs a frustrated wrist over his cheeks, the smooth brown texture of his gloves only serving to smear it further across his face until he hides it in the crook of his arm for a moment, breaths short and panicked.

There’s a strong urge to pull Cloud into his arms as he watches the kid collapse in on himself, but he knows that wouldn't be a good idea. So Barret doesn’t move to touch Cloud at all, merely sliding forward a bit more on small steps. Settling on the ground as close as he dares in a spot not covered in dead bodies or blood.

“Tell me about him.”

The smile Cloud gives him is a bitter thing. “You sure you want to hear about a Shinra lapdog?”

“I’m sure I want to hear about your friend and a good man. Now sit, merc. I’d say you’re makin’ my back ache having to look up at you, but even sitting down, that doesn’t seem to be a problem.”

Cloud huffs out a laugh and wipes at his face again, and Barret studiously does not notice the complete break in facade as he slowly lowers himself to the ground.

There’s a long silence between them before Cloud starts to speak, but Barret is patient. When Cloud does speak, it's like an outpouring of information. Emotions detached in an obvious effort to remain impartial - even judgmental - and Barret wonders if the kid has had anybody to talk to about this since it happened.

He doubts it.

Asking Cloud to come home now would only push him further away, though, so Barret lets him speak and he lets him leave.

And Barret waits.

---

Cloud’s appearances around the house become more frequent, after that. They occur as often when Barret is around as when he isn’t, and Barret finds a sense of contentment in the way their family almost becomes whole every time. Even though he can see Tifa aching and Aerith slumping every time the kid leaves - can see Marlene sometimes sitting high on the rooftop to watch for his bike. 

Cloud’s absence always makes Jessie huffy. Always engenders a sad understanding in Biggs’s eyes, like he knows why Cloud does it and doesn’t like it. Wedge is always the only one that’s happy when Cloud leaves, merely pleased to have been able to spend time with him at all.

Barret watches their discontent grow with every passing day. Weeks turning to months turning to a whole year of this back and forth; one piece of their perfect puzzle always missing.

But Cloud gets better with every passing day the team gets worse. He’s recovering, Barret notices, in agonizingly short intervals. Careful, prodding steps instead of eager leaps, but it’s enough. And Barret watches the ratty red scarf and glaring blue outfit turn into another black ensemble. A high necked zip up shirt and a smooth leather shoulder pad. Rich black gloves and a well tailored sleeve. He watches as the battered, stumbling, sleep deprived, bruise eyed look becomes more stable and more healthy - more whole - and he feels proud.

The new look is strange, though, Barret can admit. When he asks Cloud about it he gets a sarcastic evasion, but when he asks Aerith she says he’s changed jobs.

“He does deliveries now,” she sings happily, “we’ve asked him to carry quite a few things to the nearest Camp.”

“So he’s quit being a merc?”

“No, he still does that too sometimes.”

Barret sighs. “What a bastard.”

But it means the kid is finally getting his shit together, so Barret doesn’t feel too bad.

The rest of the team starts to find a rhythm to their lives as well. There’s cooking and camaraderie and a simple domesticism, yet there’s also supply runs and near constant training. A restless energy that’s broken one day when Cloud makes his next visit.

It’s when they’re all in the house together for once, and he steps through the front door like he owns the damn place, offering them positions in a guild.

“They’ve got jobs,” he says, “gathering supplies for Camps and fighting off Clusters as charity work, all unpaid and free for those who need it. There’s even some more...difficult missions that involve espionage and- and taking down big Syndicates.”

“Shinra?” Barret’s the one to ask as everybody holds their breath behind him, and when Cloud nods in answer the tension in the room snaps with a rush of vindictive glee.

“Hell, yeah!” Jessie whoops, Biggs grinning beside her, and Barret notices Wedge looking just as pleased.

He can’t help but return the sentiment, laughing loudly. “Looks like they’re getting a whole host of new members!”

“It’s mostly going to be helping people, Barret,” Cloud reminds him, and Tifa nods.

“Let’s not forget the main objective here.”

“Oh, I won’t. This is just what we need, trust me.”

Cloud nods sharply. “Good, then I’ll deliver the message.”

Barret follows him out of the house and leaves the others behind, a question on the tip of his tongue that he can’t shake. Until Cloud sits on his bike, turning to say goodbye, and Barret asks it before he can convince himself otherwise. 

“You workin’ for them too, merc?” 

Cloud hesitates on the throttle, lips pursing for a second in thought. “I’m not a merc anymore,” he finally says, and that’s all the answer Barret needs.

“You’ve got a place here, Cloud. If you ever need it or want it.”

“...you’ve already got...something here.”

“Not without you we don’t. It’s killing Tifa, you not being here. And everybody else is miserable too.”

“And what-” he blushes and shifts, clearing his throat uncomfortably, “what about you?”

Under normal circumstances, Barret would be rolling his eyes at being forced to say it, but there’s something about the way it’s asked that makes him think Cloud hasn't been sticking around for one simple reason. It’s discomfiting in a number of ways - makes Barret feel like the biggest fool in the world - but he pushes that aside in favor of giving the kid a smile. An honest, caring smile that has him swallowing thickly and looking away.

“I want you here too, Cloud. We all want you here. You’re family and we miss you, okay?” Barret huffs and crosses his arms. “So don’t keep us waiting, you hear? We’ve waited long enough.”

Too damn long, if you ask Barret.

“Yeah, I’m...uh. I’ll have to think about it.”

Barret snorts. “‘Course you will.”

Cloud’s lips twitch with a smile, and he revs the engine loud enough to make Barret jump and scowl viciously. “I’m a hot commodity, Barret. I’ve got a lot of offers!”

“Offers, my ass! You ain’t a damn prostitute.”

Cloud, the complete and utter bastard, doesn’t even sate Barret’s curiosity with a response. before he’s leaving just as quickly as he’d come.

“Fucking smartass.”

---

In the end, their family comes together in a number of ways. Pieces Barret hadn’t even known were missing slotting into place like they were always meant to be there. 

Cloud comes home eventually, at the end of another long year, and during that time Barret finds a new purpose in a team dedicated to helping people. They fight a lot more now - entering dangerous situations and watching each other's backs. Yet he makes sure to always spend just as much time - if not more - at home with his little girl. 

Cloud gets on with Aerith and Tifa like oil on fire, and the trio quickly becomes inseparable. Likewise, Biggs, Jessie and Wedge seem to form an unbreakable bond as well, though the two groups mesh together whenever they can. Hanging out and laughing and lazing the days away just as much as they fight side by side and conquer any adversity that gets in their way.

Barret grows closer with all of them in ways he’d ever thought he could, and as the years pass their bonds only grow stronger. They take care of each other like a family should. Save each other like a family should.

And in the midst of an apocalypse, misery at the door and the world gone to ruin, Barret finds a haven in the people he’s gathered around him. Good people, he thinks, that he could never let go.

[marswrigleyrules]

SKITTLES Merch Sweepstakes

Official Rules

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER TO WIN OR WIN

These Official Rules apply to the SKITTLES Merch Sweepstakes (“Sweepstakes”) conducted via one or more of SKITTLES social media accounts. The Sweepstakes will be announced via a post from SKITTLES social media on the applicable social media platform(s) (“Sweepstakes Post”). All information contained in a Sweepstakes Post is incorporated herein by reference.

1. ELIGIBILITY:  Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. & DC, 18 or older. Employees, agents, officers & directors of Mars Wrigley Confectionery US, LLC (“Sponsor”) and its respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates & advertising & promotion agencies (collectively with Facebook, Inc., Twitter, Inc., Instagram, LLC, if the Sweepstakes is conducted via any such platform, “Released Parties”) & members of their immediate family (spouse, parent, children, siblings & their respective spouses, regardless of where they reside) & persons living in the same household, whether or not related, are not eligible. Void where prohibited. Subject to all applicable federal, state & local laws.

2. HOW TO ENTER: For entry on Twitter, entrant must RETWEET Skittles Sweepstakes Tweet; Tweet must include “#Sweepstakes” and “#WearTheRainbow” to be eligible for chance to win. Alternatively, you may enter by commenting on the SKITTLES Tweet with #Sweepstakes” and “#WearTheRainbow”. For entry on Instagram, entrant must comment on SKITTLES Sweepstakes post with “#Sweepstakes” and “#WearTheRainbow” to be eligible for chance to win. Entries must be submitted by the time and date stated in the Sweepstakes Post to be eligible. Entries generated by script, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void.  Limit one (1) entry per person for any sweepstakes. Multiple entries will be void. Entries become the sole property of Sponsor. If you do not have a Twitter or Instagram account, establishing an account is free. All Facebook, Twitter or Instagram terms apply (as applicable). If run on Twitter or Instagram, your Twitter or Instagram account (as applicable) must be set to “public” in order for your entry to be eligible. You can return the applicable account to “private” anytime after the winner(s) have been announced.

3. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:  Entry must be entrant’s original work (if applicable), be in keeping with Sponsor’s image & not be offensive, obscene, hateful, harmful, tortious, libelous, slanderous or inappropriate or disparage Sponsor or any of its brands in any way, all as determined by Sponsor in its sole discretion. Entry must not defame or violate or infringe upon the rights of any person or entity. Entry must not in any way, either visibly or otherwise, contain any brand names, logos or trademarks other than those of Sponsor, which Entrant has a limited license to use solely for purposes of this sweepstakes. Entry must not include personally identifiable information of any person other than Entrant. Entrant is responsible for obtaining, prior to entering, any and all releases and consents from any persons appearing in an entry that are necessary to permit the exhibition and use of the entry by Sponsor as set forth in these Official Rules. No photo or video entry submission, if applicable, may include anyone under the age of 13. If any minor child appears in any such entry, Entrant must have permission from that child’s parent/legal guardian Sponsor reserves the right to disqualify any entry and remove any post that it determines, in its sole discretion, is not in compliance with these Official Rules.

4. RANDOM DRAWING:  One Hundred (100) winners will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible entries received, to be held within five (5) days following the entry deadline unless otherwise stated in the Sweepstakes Post. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received.

5. WINNER NOTIFICATION: Potential winner(s) will be notified via a comment on his/her winning post, @reply and/or direct message (as applicable) & he/she will have 48 hours from notification to respond to Sponsor. The failure to respond to such notification or a potential winner’s noncompliance with these Official Rules may result in disqualification, & at Sponsor’s sole discretion, an alternate winner may be selected. 6. PRIZE(S) & APPROXIMATE RETAIL VALUE (“ARV”): The one hundred (100) winners will receive one (1) SKITTLES branded crewneck sweatshirt (ARV $60.00 USD) and one (1) SKITTLES branded bucket hat (ARV $20.00 USD). Prizes are awarded “as is” with no warranty or guarantee, either express or implied. Winners are responsible for all federal, state & local taxes. Winners may not substitute, assign or transfer prize, but Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to substitute prize (or portion thereof) with one of comparable or greater value. All prize details are at Sponsor’s sole discretion. Limit one (1) prize per person. Prizing will be fulfilled approximately thirty (30) business days following the response of winner to Sponsor.

7. GRANT OF RIGHTS: By submitting an entry, each Entrant grants to Sponsor and its licensees, successors and assigns an irrevocable, perpetual, unlimited, royalty-free, fully paid-up license to reproduce, distribute, display, exhibit, exploit, perform, edit, create derivatives of & otherwise use the entry & all elements of such entry, together with any other material, as well as the name, user name, city & state of residence, voice, image and/or likeness of Entrant (including, without limitation, profile photo), in any & all media now known or hereafter devised, in any manner, in whole or in part, worldwide, without compensation or notification to, or permission from, entrant or any third party, for any purpose whatsoever, including without limitation, for purposes of advertising or trade.

8. GENERAL CONDITIONS: By participating, each Entrant agrees: (a) to abide by these Official Rules & decisions of Sponsor & judges, which shall be final & binding in all respects relating to this Sweepstakes; (b) to release, discharge & hold harmless Released Parties from any & all injuries, liability, losses & damages of any kind to persons, including death, or property resulting, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, from Entrant’s participation in the Sweepstakes or the acceptance or use of any prize; and (c) indemnify, defend and hold harmless Released Parties from and against any and all suits, claims or causes of action arising out of or in connection with any alleged or actual infringement of any third-party trademarks, copyrights or any other intellectual property whatsoever. Released Parties are not responsible for (i) lost, late, incomplete, damaged, inaccurate, stolen, delayed, misdirected, undelivered or garbled entries, tweets, retweets, messages or comments; (ii) lost, interrupted or unavailable network, server, Internet Service Provider (ISP), SKITTLES social media pages, or other connections, availability or accessibility or miscommunications; (iii) failed computer, satellite, telephone or cable transmissions, lines, or technical failure; (iv) jumbled, scrambled, delayed, or misdirected transmissions or computer hardware or software malfunctions, failures or difficulties; (v) other errors or difficulties of any kind, whether human, mechanical, electronic, computer, network, typographical, printing or otherwise, relating to or in connection with the Sweepstakes, including, without limitation, errors or difficulties which may occur in connection with the administration of the Sweepstakes, the processing of entries, the announcement of the prize(s) or in any sweepstakes-related materials; (vi) any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by users, tampering, hacking, or by any equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes; or (vii) injury or damage to any person's computer related to or resulting from participating in this Sweepstakes. Persons who tamper with or abuse any aspect of the Sweepstakes or a SKITTLES social media account, who act in an unsportsmanlike or disruptive manner or who are in violation of these Official Rules, as solely determined by Sponsor, will be disqualified & all associated entries will be void. Should any portion of the Sweepstakes be, in Sponsor’s sole opinion, compromised by virus, worms, bugs, non- authorized human intervention or other causes which, in the sole opinion of the Sponsor, corrupt or impair the administration, security, fairness or proper play, or submission of entries, Sponsor reserves the right at its sole discretion to suspend, modify or terminate the Sweepstakes & if terminated, at its discretion, select winner(s) at random from all eligible, non-suspect entries received prior to action taken or as otherwise deemed fair & appropriate by Sponsor. Information submitted in connection with this Sweepstakes will be used in accordance with Sponsor’s Privacy Policy, available at http://www.mars.com/global/policies/privacy/pp-english.

9. WINNERS LIST: The name(s) of the winner(s) will be posted via the applicable social media account(s) following the end of the sweepstakes.

10.SPONSOR: Mars Wrigley Confectionery US, LLC, 800 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ, 07840. This sweepstakes is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

[thomassabosingapore-blog]

1.        One GREAT love Giveaway contest will be governed by these standard terms and conditions, and accompanying Contest Details (collectively the “Terms”).

2.       Each entrant agrees that he/she has read and understood this document and by their participation in the Contest, each entrant agrees to be bound by the Terms.

3.       The Organiser of Contests is Thomas Sabo Singapore 

4.       CONTEST PERIOD: Contest begins on April 28, 2020 at 11:00AM and ends on May 8, 2020 at 11:59PM (the “Contest Period”). 

5.       ENTRY: During the Contest Period, like, comment, and share posts from Sponsor’s Facebook (www.facebook.com/ThomasSaboSingapore). If you post updates to or receive updates from Facebook via SMS from your wireless phone, your wireless service provider may charge you for each text message you send and receive. Please consult your wireless service provider for more information. All terms and conditions of Facebook apply. Entry in the Contest constitutes permission for Sponsor and their agents and affiliated companies to use entrant’s name, photograph or other likeness on Sponsor’s social media platforms. 

6.       DRAWINGS AND WINNER NOTIFICATION: Immediately following the close of the Contest Period, the 5 best story will  be picked as the lucky winners will be selected by Thomas Sabo Team, By the month of May, after the closure of the Contest Period, Thomas Sabo will send the potential winner a message to the potential winners Facebook account with instructions on how to claim the prizes. If (i) a potential winner does not respond and comply with the instructions in the message within twenty-four (24) hours after Sponsor sent the message, (ii) prize notification is returned to Sponsor as undeliverable, or (iii) a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, then the prize will be forfeited and, at Sponsor’s discretion, the next best story winner will then be selected. 

7.       THE PRIZE: The prize consists of Thomas Sabo specially selected jewellery; The total approximate retail value of the prize is Two Hundred and Eighty dollars ($280.00). The winner may not substitute, assign or transfer the prize or redeem any of the products for cash, but Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to substitute any of the products with one of comparable or greater value. The winner is responsible for all applicable cost and GST, if any, as well as any other costs and expenses associated with prize acceptance and use not specified herein as being provided. All prize details are at Sponsor’s sole discretion.

8.        GENERAL CONDITIONS:  Acceptance of the Prize shall constitute consent on the Winner’s part (including Winner’s companion’s part, as the case may be), to allow the use of the Winner’s (and Winner’s companion’s) entry, names, images, video footage, voices and/or likeness by the Organiser for editorial, advertising, promotional, marketing and/or other purposes, without further compensation, in any media for an unlimited period of time, except where prohibited by law.  Acceptance of any Prize shall constitute a release and discharge of the Organiser by each Winner (and/or their companions) from any and all liability, claims, demands, causes of action, and/or damages which the Winner (and/or their companions) may have, whether known or unknown at the present time, of any nature whatsoever, arising out of or relating to: (i) the Contest, (ii) personal injury and/or property damage, theft or loss suffered by the Winner (and/or their companions) as a result of the use and/or enjoyment of the Prize, and/or (iii) any tax liabilities in relation to the Contest, Prize and/or use or enjoyment of the same. The Organiser shall not be held liable for (i) any delay in performing or partial or total failure to perform any of their obligations to the Winners under these Terms if such delay or failure is caused by circumstances beyond the reasonable control of the Organiser, its respective divisions, affiliates, authorized agents, suppliers of the Prize(s), including without limitation delays, changes, disruptions, cancellations, diversions or substitutions howsoever caused including without limitation as a result of war, terrorist action or threatened terrorist action, strikes, hostilities, civil commotions, accidents, fire, flood or natural catastrophes or (ii) from any loss, damage to property, injury, or death resulting from or related to entrant’s participation or inability to participate in this Contest, or the use, misuse or inability to use the Prize or any portion thereof. The Organisers reserve the right to terminate the Contest or to modify the Contest rules and Terms prior to the Closing Date by amending the rules and Terms hereof at its sole and absolute discretion. Any such modifications shall be notified via the Contest Website, and such modifications shall be immediately effective and apply to all entries, including entries that have been submitted to the Organiser.

9.       For avoidance of doubt, Entrants must provide personal data via SMS, email, forms, or online forms, in order to participate in giveaway contests. By voluntarily providing the Organiser with personal details, the entrant has voluntarily initiated a communications relationship with Thomas Sabo and has deemed consent to receive information, such as, but not limited to Winner Notifications, from Thomas Sabo through SMS, email, or another other forms of communications. By initiating contact with the Organiser through SMS, Entrants have deemed consent for the Organiser to contact them via SMS or telephone calls for future notifications regardless of whether the Entrant’s number is listed on Singapore’s “Do Not Call” Registry or not. 

10.   Any queries regarding the Contest should specify the name of the Contest and be addressed to m.yeo@thomassabo.com.sg 

[holypersonlove]

Terms of Service

Terms of Service

 By downloading or using Bodo Chat you agree to these TOS and our Privacy Policy.

 If you are under the age of 18, you should not download or use Bodo Chat. We do not knowingly collect or maintain information from children under age 18.

 General

YOU CONSENT TO RECEIVE COMMERCIAL E-MAIL, TEXT, SMS AND OTHER MESSAGES FROM US, AND AGREE THAT WE MAY USE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER AND OTHER PERSONAL INFORMATION FOR THE PURPOSE OF INITIATING COMMERCIAL MESSAGES. Receiving these communications is a condition of using Bodo Chat and you will not be able to opt out of receiving them.

 We reserve the right to change these TOS at any time. You are responsible to keep yourself apprised of any such changes. If we make any material change to the TOS, we will provide you with a Notice when you open Bodo Chat. If you object to any terms and conditions of the TOS or any subsequent changes or you become dissatisfied with Bodo Chat in any way, your only option is to delete your account. Your continued use of Bodo Chat after we post revised TOS means that you agree to the revisions.

 You must be at least 18 years old to download Bodo Chat. By requesting to use, or using Bodo Chat, you represent and warrant that you are not required to register as a sex offender with any government entity.

Bodo Chat is free, but your Internet provider’s or mobile operator’s fees and rates may still apply.

 You acknowledge and agree that we do not promise to screen Content, but that we have the right to do so. We have the right to remove any Content that violates the TOS or that we find objectionable. You accept liability associated with the use of any Content, including but not limited to your reliance on the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of such Content.

 You may not reproduce, re-publish, further distribute or publicly exhibit any Content on Bodo Chat that is not yours.

 Subscriptions and Virtual Currency

Virtual Currency and Gifts

When you purchase or receive Virtual Currency products such as Credits or Diamonds you do not own them. Instead, you receive a limited right to use them for eligible services and merchandise on Bodo Chat such as gifts, discover video, match with others.

 You may use Credits to purchase Gifts for other users. The price for each Gift will be displayed at the point of purchase. Gifts constitute a limited license to access a certain feature on the Bodo Chat platform when, as, and if allowed by us. All sales of Gifts are final and we do not offer refunds for any purchased Gifts. We are not responsible for repairing or replacing Gifts, or providing you with any credit or refund in the event that we modify, suspend, or terminate the Gift program, or for loss or damage due to any service error, or any other reason.

 Purchases of Virtual Currency and Gifts may not be sub-licensed and are non-refundable and non-transferable, even if they expire or are revoked or discontinued. We may change the purchase price for Virtual Currency or Gifts at any time, as well as the ways you can use Virtual Currency and Gifts. We reserve the right to revoke or stop issuing Virtual Currency and Gifts at any time without notice, refund, or compensation, and to set expiration dates for Virtual Currency and Gifts. Virtual Currency and Gifts may not be redeemed for any sum of money or monetary value. If you delete your account or your account is terminated for any reason, you will lose all accumulated Virtual Currency (Credits, Points, gifts, etc) and Gifts without refund or other compensation. You agree that we will have no liability to you based on our exercise of our rights with respect to Virtual Currency and Gifts.

 Gifts purchased or received by any user do not constitute property and are not transferable.

 Our Proprietary Rights

Bodo Chat and the software used in connection with Bodo Chat contain proprietary and confidential information that is protected by applicable intellectual property and other laws. You may not copy, modify, create a derivative work of, reverse engineer, reverse assemble or otherwise attempt to discover any source code, rent, sell, assign, sublicense, infringe or otherwise transfer or attempt to transfer any rights in the software. You may not modify the software in any manner or form or to use modified versions of the software. You may not access Bodo Chat by any means other than through an interfaces we provide.

 We May Contact You

You agree that we may communicate with you by email, text messaging, or otherwise; usually our communication will relate to administrative, security and other issues relating to Bodo Chat, including invitations to participate in promotional activities, newsletters and other communications. We may include in our communications advertisements and other third party promotional materials, campaigns and tools. Receiving these communications is a condition of your use of Bodo Chat, and you will not be able to opt out of receiving them. You may, however, block all communication from us by deleting your Bodo Chat account.

 Availability of Service

We may at any time and from time to time modify, restrict or discontinue Bodo Chat or any part of Bodo Chat, temporarily or permanently, with or without notice. We are not liable to you or to any third party for any modification, suspension or discontinuance of Bodo Chat.

 We may without prior warning or subsequent notice terminate your account and access to Bodo Chat for any or no reason. We may decide to terminate your account for a number of different reasons, including without limitation (i) if you violate or fail to comply with the TOS, the Privacy Policy or other related agreements or guidelines, (ii) if you provide false information during registration or in your profile, (iii) if you do not use Bodo Chat for an extended period of time, (iv) by request of law enforcement or other government agencies, (v) for discontinuance or changes made to Bodo Chat or any part thereof, or (vi) technical or security issues or problems. We will make all termination decisions in our sole discretion and we will not be liable to you or any third party for any termination of your account or access to your Content or Bodo Chat.

 Dealings With Advertisers

Your correspondence or dealings with, or participation in promotions of, advertisers found on or through Bodo Chat, including payment and delivery of goods or services, and any other terms, conditions, warranties or representations associated with such dealings, are solely between you and the advertiser. We are not responsible or liable for any loss or damage of any sort caused or alleged to be caused in connection with any such dealings or as the result of the presence of such advertisers on Bodo Chat. We will not be liable to you for any failure by an advertiser to provide any service or product you ordered from it.

 Third Party Links

Bodo Chat may provide, or third parties may provide, links to other websites or resources. We have no control over such sites and resources and we are not responsible for their availability. We do not endorse and are not responsible or liable for any Content, advertising, products, or other materials on or available from such sites or resources. You further agree that we will not be responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss of any sort caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with use of or reliance on any such Content, goods or services available on or through any such site or resource.

 Disclaimer of Warranties

YOU USE Bodo Chat AT YOUR SOLE RISK. WE PROVIDE Bodo Chat ON AN “AS IS” AND “AS AVAILABLE” BASIS. WE EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NON-INFRINGEMENT. NO ADVICE OR INFORMATION, WHETHER ORAL OR WRITTEN, OBTAINED BY YOU FROM OR THROUGH US SHALL CREATE ANY WARRANTY NOT EXPRESSLY STATED IN THE TOS.

 WE DO NOT GUARANTEE THAT Bodo Chat WILL ALWAYS BE SAFE, SECURE OR ERROR-FREE OR THAT Bodo Chat WILL ALWAYS FUNCTION WITHOUT DISRUPTIONS, DELAYS OR IMPERFECTIONS. WE MAKE NO WARRANTY THAT (1) Bodo Chat WILL MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS, (2) Bodo Chat WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED, TIMELY, SECURE, OR ERROR-FREE, (3) THE RESULTS THAT MAY BE OBTAINED FROM YOUR USE OF Bodo Chat WILL BE ACCURATE OR RELIABLE, (4) THE QUALITY OF ANY PRODUCTS, SERVICES, INFORMATION, OR OTHER MATERIAL PURCHASED OR OBTAINED THROUGH Bodo Chat WILL MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS, AND (5) ANY ERRORS IN THE SOFTWARE WILL BE CORRECTED.

 ANY MATERIAL DOWNLOADED OR OTHERWISE OBTAINED THROUGH Bodo Chat IS DONE AT YOUR OWN DISCRETION AND RISK. YOU WILL BE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE TO YOUR OR ANOTHERS’ DEVICE OR COMPUTER OR LOSS OF DATA THAT RESULTS, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, FROM THE DOWNLOAD OF ANY SUCH MATERIAL.

 Limitation of Liability

YOU ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE THAT WE CANNOT CONTROL THE CONDUCT OF Bodo Chat’S USERS AND THEREFORE CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY HARM THEY MAY CAUSE. WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ACTIONS, CONTENT, INFORMATION, OR DATA OF THIRD PARTIES, AND YOU RELEASE US, OUR DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AND AGENTS FROM ANY CLAIMS AND DAMAGES, KNOWN AND UNKNOWN, ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY CONNECTED WITH ANY CLAIM YOU HAVE AGAINST ANY SUCH THIRD PARTIES. IF YOU ARE A CALIFORNIA RESIDENT, YOU WAIVE CALIFORNIA CIVIL CODE §1542, WHICH SAYS: A GENERAL RELEASE DOES NOT EXTEND TO CLAIMS WHICH THE CREDITOR DOES NOT KNOW OR SUSPECT TO EXIST IN HIS FAVOR AT THE TIME OF EXECUTING THE RELEASE, WHICH IF KNOWN BY HIM MUST HAVE MATERIALLY AFFECTED HIS SETTLEMENT WITH THE DEBTOR.

YOU EXPRESSLY AGREE THAT WE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, GOODWILL, USE, DATA OR OTHER INTANGIBLES (EVEN IF WE HAVE BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES), AND INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION RESULTING FROM: (1) THE USE OR THE INABILITY TO USE Bodo Chat; (2) THE COST OF PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS AND SERVICES RESULTING FROM ANY GOODS, DATA, INFORMATION OR SERVICES PURCHASED OR OBTAINED OR MESSAGES RECEIVED OR TRANSACTIONS ENTERED INTO THROUGH OR FROM Bodo Chat; (3) UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS TO OR ALTERATION OF YOUR CONTENT, TRANSMISSIONS OR DATA; (4) STATEMENTS OR CONDUCT OF ANY THIRD PARTY ON Bodo Chat; OR (5) ANY OTHER MATTER RELATING TO Bodo Chat.

 OTHER USERS OF Bodo Chat WITH WHOM YOU ASSOCIATE, CONNECT, INTERACT AND/OR SHARE CONTENT COULD USE YOUR CONTENT AND/OR LIKENESS IN A MANNER YOU DISLIKE, DISAPPROVE OF OR OTHERWISE FIND OFFENSIVE. HOWEVER, YOU AGREE NOT TO ASSERT ANY CLAIMS, ACTIONS OR DEMANDS AGAINST US IN CONNECTION WITH SUCH USE OR ACTIVITIES, WHETHER SUCH USE OR ACTIVITIES ARE AUTHORIZED BY THESE TOS OR NOT.

 WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY OFFENSIVE, INAPPROPRIATE, OBSCENE, UNLAWFUL OR OTHERWISE OBJECTIONABLE CONTENT OR INFORMATION YOU MAY ENCOUNTER ON Bodo Chat. WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONDUCT, WHETHER ONLINE OR OFFLINE, OR ANY USER OF Bodo Chat.

 WE ARE NOT LIABLE FOR ANY LOST OR DELETED INFORMATION OR DATA, WHETHER INTENTIONAL OR UNINTENTIONAL, NOR FOR THE TIMELINESS, DELETION, MIS-DELIVERY OR FAILURE TO STORE ANY USER COMMUNICATIONS OR PERSONALIZATION SETTINGS.

 NOTWITHSTANDING ANYTHING TO THE CONTRARY CONTAINED HEREIN, AND TO THE EXTENT THAT A JUDGMENT IS RENDERED IN A COURT OF COMPETENT JURISDICTION DISREGARDING ONE OR MORE OF THE WARRANTY DISCLAIMERS AND LIABILITY LIMITATIONS CONTAINED HEREIN, OUR AGGREGATE LIABILITY TO YOU SHALL NOT EXCEED ONE DOLLAR ($1.00).

 Exclusions and Limitations

SOME JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OF CERTAIN WARRANTIES OR THE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. ACCORDINGLY, SOME OF THE ABOVE WARRANTY LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. IN SUCH CASES, OUR WARRANTIES AND LIABILITY WILL BE LIMITED TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW.

 Indemnity

YOU WILL INDEMNIFY AND HOLD US AND OUR SUBSIDIARIES, AFFILIATES, DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS AND OTHER PARTNERS, HARMLESS FROM ANY CLAIM OR DEMAND, INCLUDING ANY ATTORNEYS' FEES, THAT WE (OR THE OTHER INDEMNITEES) MAY INCUR RESULTING FROM OR ARISING OUT OF YOUR ACTIONS AND/OR ANY INFORMATION OR CONTENT YOU SUBMIT, POST, TRANSMIT OR MAKE AVAILABLE THROUGH Bodo Chat, YOUR ACCESS AND USE OF Bodo Chat, YOUR CONNECTION TO Bodo Chat, YOUR VIOLATION OF THE TOS, YOUR TRANSMISSION OF OTHER USERS’ INFORMATION OR CONTENT, OR YOUR VIOLATION OF ANY RIGHTS OF ANOTHER.

 Disputes and Arbitration

You agree that any dispute relating in any way to these TOS or Bodo Chat, including without limitation your or third parties’ access to or use of Bodo Chat, will be resolved by binding arbitration as discussed below and not through litigation in any court (except in small claims court if the claim is within the court’s jurisdiction and proceeds on an individual basis). Claims are subject to arbitration, regardless of what theory they are based on or whether they seek legal or equitable remedies. Arbitration applies to any and all such claims or disputes, whether they arose in the past, may currently exist, or may arise in the future. This arbitration agreement is entered into pursuant to the Federal Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C. §§1-16 (FAA).

 YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO OPT OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT TO ARBITRATE IF YOU TELL US WITHIN 60 DAYS OF YOUR FIRST DOWNLOAD OR USE OF Bodo Chat THAT YOU WANT TO OPT OUT. IF YOU WANT TO OPT OUT, SEND A WRITTEN NOTICE ADVISING US OF YOUR DECISION. UNLESS YOU OPT OUT OF ARBITRATION, YOU ARE WAIVING THE RIGHT TO HAVE A DISPUTE HEARD BEFORE A JUDGE OR JURY, OR OTHERWISE TO BE DECIDED BY A COURT OR GOVERNMENTAL TRIBUNAL.

 YOU AGREE NOT TO (1) SEEK TO PROCEED ON ANY CLAIM IN ARBITRATION AS A CLASS CLAIM OR CLASS ACTION OR OTHER COMPARABLE REPRESENTATIVE PROCEEDING; (2) SEEK TO CONSOLIDATE IN ARBITRATION ANY CLAIMS INVOLVING SEPARATE CLAIMANTS; (3) BE PART OF, OR BE REPRESENTED IN, ANY CLASS ACTION OR OTHER REPRESENTATIVE ACTION BROUGHT BY ANYONE ELSE; NOR (4) SEEK ANY AWARD OR REMEDY IN ARBITRATION AGAINST OR ON BEHALF OF ANYONE WHO IS NOT A NAMED PARTY TO THE ARBITRATION. IF THESE TERMS RELATING TO CLASS OR REPRESENTATIVE PROCEDURES ARE LEGALLY UNENFORCEABLE FOR ANY REASON, THEN THIS AGREEMENT TO ARBITRATE WILL BE INAPPLICABLE TO THAT CLAIM, AND THAT CLAIM WILL INSTEAD BE HANDLED THROUGH LITIGATION IN COURT RATHER THAN BY ARBITRATION. NO ARBITRATOR SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY TO ENTERTAIN ANY CLAIM ON BEHALF OF A PERSON WHO IS NOT A NAMED PARTY, NOR SHALL ANY ARBITRATOR HAVE AUTHORITY TO MAKE ANY AWARD FOR THE BENEFIT OF, OR AGAINST, ANY PERSON WHO IS NOT A NAMED PARTY.

 Arbitration under these TOS and the Privacy Policy shall be conducted by a single arbitrator under the then current rules of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) or JAMS, at the election of the party filing a claim in arbitration. That organization will apply its rules in effect at the time the arbitration claim is filed. If there is a conflict between those rules and this arbitration provision, this arbitration provision and the TOS will control. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in any current or future such rules or governing law, the arbitrator shall have no power to vary the terms of the TOS or to award either party attorneys’ fees. In the event that JAMS or the AAA is unable to handle the arbitration for any reason, then the matter shall be arbitrated by a neutral arbitrator selected by agreement of the parties, pursuant to the AAA rules of procedure.

 The arbitrator’s award shall be binding and may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction.

We will pay any costs that are required to be paid by us under the arbitration administrator’s rules. Even if not otherwise required, we will reimburse you up to $500 for any initial arbitration filing fees that you have paid. We will also pay any fees of the arbitrator and the arbitration administrator for the first two days of any hearing. If you win the arbitration, we will reimburse you for any fees you paid to the arbitration organization and/or arbitrator. All other fees will be allocated according to the arbitration administrator’s rules and applicable law. If you are unable to afford any fees that you would otherwise be required to pay, you may request us to pay or reimburse them, and we will consider your request.

 Arbitration hearings will take place in the federal judicial district that includes your address at the time the arbitration is filed.

 Permitted Time For Filing A Claim or Lawsuit

Regardless of any statute or law to the contrary, any claim or cause of action arising out of or related to use of Bodo Chat or the TOS must be filed within one (1) year after such claim or cause of action arose or be forever barred.

 How To Make Claims Of Copyright Or Other Intellectual Property Infringement

We respect the intellectual property of others and ask our users to do the same. We may, in our sole discretion, disable or terminate the accounts of users whom we believe may be infringing the intellectual property rights of others.

 If you believe your work has been copied in a way that constitutes copyright infringement or that your intellectual property rights have been otherwise violated, please provide us with the following information:

 ● an electronic or physical signature of the person authorized to act on behalf of the owner of the copyright or other intellectual property interest;

 ● a description of the copyrighted work or other intellectual property that you claim has been infringed;

 ● a description of where the material that you claim is infringing is located;

 ● your address, telephone number, and email address;

 ● a statement by you that you have a good faith belief that the disputed use is not authorized by the copyright owner, its agent, or the law; and

 ● a statement by you, made under penalty of perjury, that the above information in your notice is accurate and that you are the copyright or intellectual property owner or authorized to act on the copyright or intellectual property owner’s behalf.

 Please provide claims of copyright or other intellectual property infringement to us at support@Bodo Chatchat.me. We will consider the information you provide and other information we may obtain, and we may remove Content that we determine may infringe on your rights in our sole discretion.

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Call on the New Gifts

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7.26 12:00 AM -7.31 11:59 PM PST

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[a-wandering-fool]

With the compensatory damages verdict of $11.2 million having been rendered last Friday, the parties in Gibson’s Bakery v. Oberlin College are now into the punitive damages phase.

But in a civil trial that has gone on much longer expected, the jury never saw the courtroom today as the judge had to rule on about a half-dozen motions filed by Oberlin College.

The motions sought to restrict the information the jury could hear in the punitive phase, which could add an up to extra $22.4 million to the verdict the jury gave last week against the college and its Dean of Students Meredith Raimondo.

The motions were all filed at the last minute, and Gibson’s attorney Lee Plakas was quite angry with the tactics, calling it “a total disregard for the jury, who gets called into court again to sit it out for another day. There was plenty of time to file these, and decided without having the jury called in, but Oberlin College thinks the jury sitting and waiting is not a problem for them.”

Jury Will Not See Blast Email

In what might be construed as a victory for the defendants, Judge John R. Miraldi ruled that in deciding a punitive amount (if any), the jury cannot be presented with an email blasted out to alums immediately after the verdict last week. Part of the email by Donica Thomas Varner, Oberlin College’s Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary, sent to thousands of alumni in the United States and around the world, said the following:

“We are disappointed with the verdict and regret that the jury did not agree with the clear evidence our team presented.” …

“Neither Oberlin College nor Dean Meredith Raimondo defamed a local business or its owners, and they never endorsed statements made by others. Rather, the College and Dr. Raimondo worked to ensure that students’ freedom of speech was protected and that the student demonstrations were safe and lawful, and they attempted to help the plaintiffs repair any harm caused by the student protests.”

The Gibson lawyers wanted to not only present the jury with the email as evidence of “malice,” but to also bring in Varner to testify via subpoena to the jury in the punitive phase. However, the judge ruled the jury would get neither the email nor the testimony of the general counsel.

Owen Rarric, an attorney for the Gibson’s, argued that the email was valid because the “jury will be deciding based on the deterrence and punishment they will exact on the school,” and that “this [email] is directly relevant to the issue of malice and the jury can determine the amount award to prevent future malicious conduct.”

Lee Plakas added that “Oberlin College just doesn’t get it and doesn’t accept that anyone else’s decisions is right except their own.”

The defense claimed in its court motion that the email was not relevant and would needlessly inflame the jury:

The conduct underlying all of these claims, as set forth at trial, spanned from November 10, 2016 (the first day of the protest) through late January 2017 (when Oberlin College resumed its daily orders from Gibson’s Bakery). The Trial Update is irrelevant to actual malice, which is required for an award of punitive damages, as the Trial Update comes two-and-a-half years after the tortious conduct that formed the basis of the jury’s verdict. In other words, the Trial Update is not relevant because nothing in the Trial Update has “any tendency to make the existence of any fact that is of consequence to the determination of” actual malice “more probable or less probable than it would be without the evidence.” Evid.R. 401.

Put simply, what relevance does an email sent by Oberlin College’s General Counsel, Vice President and Secretary to Oberlin College alumni—two-and-a-half years after the tortious conduct that lead to the jury’s finding of liability—have to actual malice? None. Thus, evidence on the Trial Update should be precluded from trial.

* * *

As discussed, certain news outlets have manipulated the Trial Update to suggest that Defendants have somehow disrespected and rejected the jury’s verdict. As the jury has been instructed not to read news postings and editorials about this case, so too should Plaintiffs be prevented from parroting the themes of those news postings and editorials to incite the jury into believing that it has been belittled in the Trial Update. The only reason Plaintiffs seek to introduce the Trial Update is to inflame the jury’s emotions and maximize a potential punitive damages award. Thus, evidence of the Trial Update should be excluded, as Defendants stand to be unfairly prejudiced by Plaintiffs’ improper use of the document.

Judge John R. Miraldi held that “this was a letter sent by the Oberlin general counsel after the verdict. We are talking about the actions of the defendants that demonstrated malice. What we will use is only what was litigated in court.”

Motion for Mistrial Denied

In addition to his ruling that the email could not be admitted, the judge ruled favorably for the Gibson team in most of the other mostly procedural matters. The Oberlin College lawyers claimed the court had not separated the “compensatory” damages in the verdict between the Gibson family members and their business, and thus, in their argument, the jury could not figure out the punishment phase with such wrongful jury instructions from the court.

Oberlin College attorney Ronald D. Holman called the lack of a proper “breakdown of damages per claimant by claim” was for Oberlin College, an “incurable legal quagmire.” That line drew some giggles from the packed courtroom, especially from friends of the Gibson family who have been in this Ohio courtroom since early May.

The judge ruled against the motion for a “mistrial”:

Attorney Fees Could Be In Play

The Court also ruled that the jury could designate whether the court could award attorney’s fees. As we understand the procedure, the jury will get to determine whether to give the judge the power to award the Gibsons attorney’s fees. If the jury so authorizes, the amount will be up to the judge. It’s unclear to us whether the judge could award the amount of the contingent fee (which presumably is the basis on which the plaintiffs’ lawyers took the case), because if so, that could add many millions to the ultimate judgment. Even at an hourly rate, it still would be substantial.

What’s Next

The evidence presented tomorrow will be by the plaintiffs about how Oberlin College acted with malice. The attorneys would not tip their hand as to what the evidence of malice might be, but did indicate they would focus on evidence already presented to the jury in the trial.

One would suspect the jury might see the email again tomorrow from Oberlin College Dean of Students Meredith Raimondo, where she wrote to colleagues, in relation to criticism of the college’s handling of the matter, ““Fuck him … I’d say unleash the students if I wasn’t convinced this needs to be put behind us.”

Daniel McGraw is a freelance writer and author in Lakewood, Ohio. Follow him on Twitter @danmcgraw1

WAJ Adds: We will be on Verdict Watch as soon as the jury gets the punitive damages case. As soon as there is a verdict, Dan will contact me and I will post it. As with the compensatory verdict, you will be the first to know, other than people in the courtroom.

====================

Actions have consequences....

[kunoichi-ume]

Word Count: 2178 Characters: Jurr Jinn and @cinlat‘s Kadu Jadon & Fynta wolfe Series: Jedi Sitters A/N: For those not familiar with Jurr, she was in an accident as a child that caused brain damage and her memory is solely dependent on implants. Jedi Master Kadu Jadon is a healer who specializes with cases such as Jurr’s who need round the clock medical supervision. (Totally stole this from @cinlat‘s first story about these two adorable characters because it explains them so well. I took her banner too, cause these two are so cute and I love how Jurr is looking at him here.)

Cinlat wrote this wonderful story about Kadu’s pining for Jurr and I just had to write them meeting, and how much Jurr does not like the idea. 

Jurr had to force herself not to run across the hanger toward the Thunderclap. To say she was excited about her new posting would have been an understatement. Part of her still thought this was a dream and that if she pinched herself she’d wake to find herself back in the Coruscant barracks that had been her home since her last deployment had ended. Her assignments were never long term, every CO she’d ever had felt she was a risk to the rest of the team and would dispute her posting with HQ until she was shuffled back into the mix of other soldiers with no permanent assignment.

This time would be different. Thanks to a chance encounter with Fynta Wolfe, the commander of Havoc Squad, that had turned into as much of a friendship as Jurr was able to maintain had helped her land the mother of all promotions.

Commanding Officer of Havoc Squad. Spec Ops. The best of the best.

Part of Jurr was terrified, unsure how she could ever be good enough to fill the Major’s role and the other couldn’t wait to start. She’d have a place, with no one to complain to HQ until they sent her away. Instead of being the liability she would have to be the backbone of her team.

It was going to be hard, but she could do it. She had to, the constant shifting around was slowly killing her.

In the end she managed to keep her dignity as she approached the ship with only the lopsided grin on her face hinting at how eager she felt. Jurr had been on the Fury before, after a rather rowdy bar fight ended up with her nose broken. Fynta had been thoughtful enough to have her medic tend to it. The woman did a great job too, Jurr’s nose was as straight as ever.

Major Fynta Wolfe was waiting for her in the main room of the Fury along with the Cathar male Jurr might have remembered being introduced to.

The blonde woman grinned when Jurr walked in, meeting her in the middle of the room to clap Jurr’s shoulder with her hand.

“Good to see you again Major,” she said with a grin before turning to the Cathar. “Sorry I’m terrible with names…” Jurr let her voice trail off, hoping to prompt him to fill in the blank.

“Kadu Jadon,” he supplied, holding out his hand. Jurr took it in her’s and was surprised by how much warmth she could feel. “It’s good to finally meet you, Trev talks about you often.”

Jurr almost dropped his hand in shock. “You know Trev?”

Kadu smiled at her reaction. “I do, we have been friends for a long time. If even half of what he says is true it’s going to be a pleasure working with you.”

She stepped back, eye narrowing into a glare as she turned to face Fynta again. “Excuse me? I thought I was getting to put together my own crew.”

Fynta grimaced. “You will, Garza just wanted me to put forth some names and well, Kadu here is part of the deal.”

Jurr crossed her arms tightly, her heart suddenly pounding at the implication of Fynta’s words. “Are you saying that there are conditions to my promotion?”

“It wasn’t my idea but yes.” Fynta gestured at Kadu, “he’s a Jedi healer that’s going to look after your health while in the field.”

Jurr saw red. This was so far out of line she couldn’t even think of a good comparison for it.

She was an adult damnit. A Captain in the Republic Military!

She did not need a babysitter.

It didn’t matter to her that he was a jedi, or a healer, he was there to babysit her and that was unacceptable. The nerve of that… Jurr paused in her internal tirade to take a few deep breaths before she said something she would regret to one of the very few friends she had.

Fynta Wolfe had done her a solid, recommending her for the positing of Havoc CO. HAVOC. Jurr wasn’t sure there were words for what a big deal that was to her. She had never expected her career to go far. When she made Captain she was told it was the farthest up the chain she qualified for, with her disability.

Not for the first time she wondered how different her life could be if she just wasn’t broken. Oh the doors that would open for her. She would know so much about herself that she couldn’t answer now, like her name or date of birth. Who knew how far her career could go then, she had a natural aptitude for soldiering after all. Hell she might not even been a soldier and maybe, maybe if she hadn’t been in that accident, she would have a family. Or a face that didn’t look like it had been run over by a speeder because, well, it kind of was.

Without these drawbacks all the things she knew she would never have, like love, would be possible.

And now her dream promotion was being tainted by the same blemish on her life.

“Jurr?”

Fynta’s voice pulled her out of her sulking and she spun around to fix the major with a one eyed glare.

“I do not need a babysitter.”

“He isn’t a babysitter.” Fynta retored, gesturing at the Cathar standing next to her, bag still slung over his shoulder.

“Then what is he?”

“He is a doctor, a healer Jurr, and a warrior.” Fynta stepped closer, “and he is here on Trev’s recommendation.”

“Why can’t I just have Trev with me?” Jurr didn’t care that she was actively whining now. The unfairness of the situation had her on the edge of an emotional breakdown.

“You know why, Trev has his own posting and none of the special skill Kadu has.” Fynta sighed. “Jurr you are making me be the reasonable one here and I don’t like it.”

Jurr folded her arms over her chest. “Easy for you to say, you're not the one who isn’t trusted without a minder.”

“What do you call Jorgan?”

Jurr looked up at her skeptically, “I hardly think the two things compare, do you?”

“Would you want it to?” Fynta asked with mischievous smile. Jurr’s face fell and Fynta knew she had crossed a line she shouldn’t have. She hadn’t come prepared to deal with the kind of emotions she could see the younger woman trying to hide and realized she was going to see some backup if this transition of power was going to go smoothly.

Crossing the room, Fynta punched in a holofrequency she had used several times recently to help get Jurr’s promotion set in stone. The holo only rang twice before it was answered, displaying a holographic image of a young man with more visible implants than even Jurr possessed.

“Hey Major, this is an unexpected surprise.”

Skipping all plesentaries, Fynta got right to the point. “Trev I need you to explain our arrangements to Jurr, I’m not in the mood to argue with her.”

Kadu was surprised by the sudden concern on the other Jedi’s face.

“Where is she?” he asked, not bothering to ask for any details about why he was needed to help explain the situation.

Fynta grabbed Jurr by the upper arm and hauled her in front of the holo. She had just turned to snap at the manhandling when Trev smiled and said, “what’s new, JJ?”

Kadu watched in fascination, sensing the sudden flare of the Force in a woman who he swore was a null a moment before, as the aggravation on her face melted and the tension in her posture released.

“Trev,” she said with a smile, “what are you doing here?”

Trev looked past her toward Fynta, “can you give us a moment?”

“Of course, we will just be over here,” she said, ushering Kadu toward the conference room. Once they were inside Fynta grimaced. “Sorry about that, I told Jurr about you but as you can see, her memory issues aren’t exaggerated.”

Kadu nodded and set his bag down before leaning back against one of the tables. “Is she going to accept me on the squad, or should I look forward to an argument everytime she sees me?”

Fynta shrugged. “Honestly, I don’t know. Jurr’s memory can be so unpredictable sometimes it’s hard to know if she will recall someone or not. The only advice I can give you is that the more she interacts with someone the more likely she will remember them.”

The holo clipped to the soldier’s belt chimed and she pulled it off to check the incoming frequency. “I need to take this, I’ll be back and hopefully Trev can calm her down.”

Kadu watched her leave the room before sighing. He had taken this assignment as a favor to his friend, but Trev had failed to mention that the Jurr he always spoke so fondly of would hate the idea. He hoped the man could soothe her concerns away because, honestly, the healer in him was fascinated by what little he knew of her condition.

As the silence of the conference room settled around him, Kadu could hear the conversation from the other room. He didn’t particularly like eavesdropping, but short of plugging his ears there was little he could do to prevent his acute hearing from picking things up.

“Trev you don’t understand,” Jurr said from the other room, sounding obviously frustrated.

“Then I need you to explain it to me,” Trev said with far more patience than Kadu ever imagined he had. “I thought this promotion was something you wanted.”

“It is,” she sighed, “but I don’t want my entire life to be dictated by how broken I am.” The tone of her voice made Kadu wish he could see her face, to see if he was imagining the pain there.

“You are not broken Jurr,” Trev said firmly. “You’re are just a little different, that’s all.”

“That’s easy for you to say,” Jurr said as Kadu decided to chance moving closer to the door. If he was going to hear their entire discussion, he might as well see it to give himself a better measure of the woman whose health he would soon be in charge of. “You’re implants don’t hold you back the way mine do.”

“I know, but you can’t let that stop you Jurr.” Trev smiled kindly, “if you do then you’re letting it win.”

“Doesn’t mean I have to like it.” Jurr crossed her arms, “honestly Trev if I had anywhere else to go I think I’d just bag this whole army thing.” She tried not to think about how lost she would be without the military and that, if she managed to live long enough to retire the way Fynta had, she would probably have to return to the doctors and their experiments for lack of a home to return to.

“You don't mean that Jurr, you love being a soldier. The traveling and getting to help people, and don't even try to say you don’t love blowing things up.”

She tried not to smile, annoyed that he had seen through her bluff. “I do I just… I’m tired Trev. I’m tired of being shuffled around because no one wants to deal with me, and being treated like an invalid and a liability. Half my COs wouldn’t even listen to my ideas because they doubt my ability to think critically.”

“That’s why this is such a good opportunity for you. You will be the the CO, no more being shuffled around and Kadu is a good man. He’s been my friend for years.” Jurr looked away from Trev with a petulant expression on her face. “Jurr look at me.”

Reluctantly she turned back to his holo with a frown.

“I know this is hard to accept, but I had a really good feeling about this.” Trev smiled, “such a good one that I send you a package of your favorites.”

Jurr’s face lit up in a grin, “really? Will it be here soon?”

“It should be yes, but you can only have it if you accept the position and be nice to Kadu.”

Her grin turned back into a frown. “How ‘nice’ do I need to be?”

Trev laughed as Fynta walked back into the room, her own holocall over. “Just don’t shoot him and we have a deal.”

“Deal.”

“Oh good, you talked some sense into her.” Fynta smiled as she gave Jurr a friendly punch to the shoulder, before waving Kadu back unto the room. “You’ll see. This is going to be good.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Jurr grumbled, looking over at Kadu before a mischievous gleam entered her eye. “If you think keeping up with me is going to be easy, you are in for a surprise.”

Kadu wasn’t sure if he was concerned by the look in her eye, or excited, but he was looking forward to finding out.

[healthbusinesslawyerlosange-blog]

Los Angeles Business Attorney

Another great way to locate good Los Angeles business attorney is by asking people you know who their dentist is. Many dentists, especially those new to the field, are finding that locum tenens positions are a great fit for them. Dr. Anastasia Depounti is a dentist who knows all the terms that are used in her profession. What subjects should I take as a ninth grader if I want to become a dentist? To hire a good Los Angeles business attorney follow the link.

It is better to visit you dentist consultant to make your teeth white using preventive actions. As Ben and Chon perform towards rescuing O, which involves obtaining huge sums of money in short intervals, they have encounters by using several side characters. The plus side of a dental assisting career is that the job outlook is strong, and jobs should be relatively plentiful. While some dentists and physicians in this situation can and do sell their practices, it is from a position of weakness since they don't have the benefit of time on their side. Find out if bankruptcy is right for your situation. If you are doing business and don’t have a business lawyer in Los Angeles working for you, now is the time to find one. Oftentimes the insurance company has had sufficient time to establish their own business and withstand client's claims.

Los Angeles Business Attorney

This warning is being posted because numerous people have searched for a corporate minutes company's name or address, landed on this web page, and wrongly assumed that they have found the web site of that company. Note that a screening appointment can range in duration from 30 minutes up to 1.5 hours. The course load will go from 32 credit hours per year in college to around 100 credit hours per year in dental school. Bruce was elected a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, a Fellow of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, a Fellow of the International Society of Barristers and a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America. Maybe they should be called Peace of Mind Insurance. Currently, only 57% of Americans under age 65 have dental insurance, through their employers compared with 85% for medical insurance. Grinding your teeth rarely, do not cause any damage, but when teeth grinding become a habit, the teeth can be damaged and many other dental complications may arise on the health business lawyer Los Angeles.

Teeth whitening are also used because it is very effective treatment not much costly and shows result immediately. Well if we represent you they are not going to get their easy money! People have been visiting India, Mexico and Costa Rico to get their dental procedures done from some of the best dentists with world class facilities and services. If you want to get back on track with your tax compliance, you need to update all your estimated quarterly tax. Either way, you'll need to show that you are an academically strong learner in order to be accepted. So you no need to spend even a minute more to maintain your dental implants. By having a website, a dental professional can reach patients' computers even before he physically meets them! Dental implants in Parramatta are highly durable and have high success rate when compared to other replacement procedures. Do they come to you on their own or have you planned some kind of promotion? Developing a grand marketing strategy is essential for all kind of businesses need the best Los Angeles business attorney.

Here's a quick introduction to the world of SEO and why it should be a big part of your business strategy. Our Los Angeles business lawyers know what it is like, and what problems frequently occur. Starting your own business or maintaining it without violating any business and corporate law can be quite challenging as you may have to deal with complex legal matters. Many cosmetic-dentistry techniques are certainly not agonizing, so you have nothing to be able to anxiety in that respect. Whilst that figure may seem pricey, when you think you'd have to pay over 100 (pounds) to see a doctor privately and the cost of the most routine operation would take your breath away, in reality it's understandable. Reinstatement Cost Submission Form The Cirrus SR22 is exclusive for the reason that it has a parachute deployment process (HATS). In fact, they will walk you through all steps of the bankruptcy process you need the best health business lawyer Los Angeles.

Hiring a Business Attorney: 3 Tips For Success

You are quite taken while using thought of starting a franchise. You've done extensive research, hired a franchise lawyer and currently have your own business plan set up. The next thing on the list is funding the franchise. Many Canadian franchisees often find that franchise financing is as testing as the steps that precede it.

An experienced business attorney is definitely an invaluable resource for that entrepreneur. You must protect your company's rights plus your own. This is what attorneys do and you also need these kinds of advice which means you tend not to make critical mistakes in planning, organizing, or licensing your organization. There are established protocols to check out so you can get an enterprise venture ready, as well as your attorney provides details for your leisure. A small misunderstanding will surely have unintended consequences, so it's far better to disclose any agreements in some recoverable format to avoid errors of interpretation. An attorney supplies guidance to actually launch your corporation. You may need legal advice, contracts may be required to be drafted or interpreted, or you might require assistance for company corporation.

The second sort of foreclosure is the judicial foreclosure that enables the borrower a calendar month to make payment in the day the foreclosure notice is issued. If the borrower fails to generate the payment which period elapses, the exact property is automatically offered for a public auction and subsequent ownership transfers from your person who has defaulted towards the one who wins in the auction. Finally, there will be the power of sale foreclosure that is certainly also referred to as non-judicial foreclosure. This is particularly applicable the borrower used a deed of trust when securing the exact property. Alternatively, this may also be used the place where a power of sale clause can be used within the mortgage terms. Thus, the non-judicial foreclosure has the process covered within the loan document so that the lender will simply mail yourself on their intention to begin the operation of foreclosure on your property.

Intellectual Property. You need to protect your specific business from theft of one's product or branding. Patents, trademarks, and copyrights should be secured properly, and you want to know what to do in the event you discover any infringement. Using an attorney well-versed in IP will assure that everything is done correctly and thoroughly. In addition, depending on your field, you might need legal counsel to analyze your products or services liability issues.

Business is a field where we can reap benefits and also at once plunge into great losses. The risks linked to business are many. Firstly we are investing our hard earned money. Secondly we take loans to supplement the deficit in finance. We are responsible for the workers we employ. If your clients are not channeled properly right away itself, the likelyhood for failure are huge. With the help of a good business attorney you'll be able to climb heights in your business.

For more details about the best Los Angeles business attorney go to https://www.forbes.com/sites/basharubin/2014/11/14/small-business-expert-how-do-you-find-and-pick-a-lawyer/.