#i should mention i wpuld not love the job

[teecupangel]

Imma add @theconfusedartist’s tags here as well because this shows just how much Rauf sees what Altaïr is going thru and is helping him at the same time help the recruits under him XD

#i love it!! #this is why Altaïr never tries to tell rauf to stop asking him to teach his students #they learn the lesson of the eagle and Altaïr doesn’t blow a gasket after dealing with al mualim #win win for everyone but the novices #the worst part for them is that he’s not even going for any kill strikes #hes just slapping them around the ring #or countering (for grabs and swings) and it makes all the novices embarassed #that this one guy is just single handedly beating everyone#and looking more relaxed afterwards!! #wpuld hate to be the novice that gets their ass kicked so hard they start thinking about changing their role in the order #only to see Altaïr smiling like a madman after backhand slapping someone#like what would they be able to do other than thank allah hes on their side? #you can't beat that man. they couldn't even land a hit. hes the true unstoppable force #desmond watching in the animus wishing he had some popcorn

Malik was in a bad mood.

There was no other way to explain it.

Altaïr had been sending increasingly insistent letters requesting his presence in Masyaf.

He must take Malik as a fool and believed that Malik has no idea what that idiot was planning.

It was clear what he was planning.

The moment Malik returned to Masyaf, Altaïr would be putting his son in Malik’s arm to offkilter him and perhaps use the innocence of the child to make it harder for Malik to think. Then, once Altaïr had finished talking about the many issues their Brotherhood was embroiled in, he’d announce that Malik was to be his Keeper and he’d take Malik’s stunned silence as confirmation.

Malik was sure of it because that would be what he would do if he was in Altaïr’s shoes, after all.

But Malik cannot simply become the Keeper, not after being the acting mentor for the many years Altaïr spent away in Levant after Cyprus.

Not to mention, his extended stay in Masyaf meant that he had neglected his duties as the Rafiq of the Jerusalem bureau.

While it was strange for a Dai to be a Rafiq as well, it was still a responsibility that Malik took pride in. And he knew the men he had put in his stead to take care of the bureau while he was in Masyaf did a good job.

But it was not enough in Malik’s eyes.

He knew that he was hard on everyone. He was hard on himself as well.

But that didn’t stop him from having this itch to make sure everything was well.

He was delaying the inevitable, after all. He had started to receive letters from a few of the council members requesting him to just give in and take the Keeper title. The Brotherhood needed a Keeper, after all, and Al Mualim had not been able to assign a Keeper since Harash’s betrayal and death. They all knew Malik would be Altaïr’s Keeper but they couldn’t just start giving him the real duties of the Keeper unless Altaïr made the announcement.

And Altaïr would not make such an announcement without telling Malik first.

But Malik still needed more time.

He was already training the next Rafiq and all the Assassins assigned in the bureau were also being taught on everything Malik believed they should know.

He should be focused on all of these.

But…

He still could not help himself and he still made time every day to look after the progress of the new batch of novices sent to their bureau.

They were an interesting batch.

They were much faster and stronger than the previous batch Malik had handled. Most of them were even at the same combat level as Assassins who have been in a field for two years already, the remaining managing to make an Assassin with five years of real combat experience sweat and almost lose.

And they seemed so surprised by that fact.

Then he heard them say…

“Does this mean… his training actually works?”

“Was that hell actually worth something?”

Malik had been curious to why they would say such things. He knew that they were the latest batch under Rauf, having had their initiation pushed a few years later than it should have been due to the rapid changes the Brotherhood had gone thru.

Training was never easy. It was rigorous and it asked a lot on the recruits, yes, but Malik would never consider it hell.

And that wasn’t all.

These recruits…

They always looked at Malik with eyes that was grateful for… Malik’s mercy.

Malik has no other words to explain it.

Even when he was scolding them for messing up or making them train for half a day to further develop their Vision, they would always end the conversation with a words that can be summarized as:

“Thank you for teaching me.”

And

“Thank you for being kind.”

Malik was not a kind instructor.

He had been trained to be stern and demanding.

The Al-Sayf family had long held pride in being one of the old Assassin families and they held others in the same standard they held themselves.

His father had a good father but he had also been a stern instructor.

And Malik knew that he had inherited that sternness from his father.

So being thanked for being… kind… when he was sure he was being stern was strange.

They were strange children but Malik supposed…

It wasn’t bad.

Being looked at with such bright faces.

This all happened because of this post

Where @theconfusedartist left these tags:

#i love the little bounce he does after slapping the dude too #hes having so much fun slapping people around he doesn't even care if they die after that #hes just having a good time at that poinr#

Then I left these tags:

#(the little bounce is because he's stepping on a body and the game physics is wonky) #ssssshhhhh #this is altaïr having fun #let him have fun #he just had to listen to al mualim give a long ass lesson #this is how altaïr destresses

Then @thedragonqueen1998 left these tags:

#after every talk Altaïr has with Al Mualim a novice dies inside #cause they know they know he will beat the shit out of them to destress #XD

So have this small ‘outsider’s POV’ of a poor recruit:

They had heard tales of how one must tread carefully in the presence of Malik Al-Sayf, one of the few Dais to ever have his own bureau.

The Dai does care not for excuses and they had heard horror stories that ranged from the believable (the Dai will make a novice train his Vision until he starts to see stars) to obvious horseshit (the Dai feast on the tears of novices).

It was a common ‘warning story’ that one must be wary if they were stationed in Jerusalem.

But… in their eyes…

Masyaf was more of a hell.

Whenever the Eagle of Masyaf returned.

They were there when the master had stripped Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad of his rank.

They had heard the whispers how it was only the master’s mercy and love for him as a son that stayed the master’s hand from taking the man’s life.

But…

If the master truly did love the Eagle of Masyaf like a son then he was one of those frustrating fathers who always berated his own son because…

“Ah, Altaïr.”

They felt a shiver go down his spine and all of them shared a frightened look among themselves as their combat instructor, Rauf, called out to Altaïr.

All of them lowered their heads when Altaïr glanced at them with a face carved in stone to keep a blank expression only to be betrayed by the fury in his golden eyes.

Rauf paid it no heed and the recruits all know their instructor was not blind nor oblivious.

He always did this on purpose because he was the true monster who feasted on the tears of others.

“It seemed my students do not know how to properly wield a blade.” Rauf’s lips were curved into an easy grin and the fear loomed all around the recruits as their instructor continued, “If you can spare your time, would you be so kind as to teach them even just for a bit?”

Altaïr stared at Rauf for a moment and everyone hoped…

No.

They prayed that Altaïr would say ‘no’ this time around.

But…

“Very well.” Altaïr nodded at Rauf, “The usual then?”

“Yes.” Rauf replied, his easy grin appearing like a smile full of a predator’s teeth about to play with its food, “Thank you, Altaïr.”

As Altaïr walked towards the training ring, all recruits readied themselves.

For an afternoon of having to fight and be taken down by the strongest of them and an entire day of sore muscles and bruised ego.

[orangememory]

Nirvana in Fire 2 : Episode 5 Recap

Episode 5, some plots untwist and some plots twist, we see ample sprinkling of bromance, and one more badass joins the plot. So on we go! (Note: This recap may be slightly longer in order to explain some plot points. Thanks!)

Last Episode:

Episode 4 neatly wrapped up our Datong baddies in a bow, and threw Pingjing for a loop when he learned that Daddy was playing everything behind the scenes, including Pingjing’s own presence in Datong. The investigative trio of smols sets off with an army retinue to Jinling, yet something isnt adding up for Dragon boy. What could it be?

Episode 5 Recap:

- Our look into the journey of Pingjing and company is thankfully interrupted with a few cute moments between Pingzhang and wife Qianxue, who is the mosg beautiful thing I have laid my eyes on in NIF2 till now. Pingzhang and wifey are a stunning, utterly beautiful couple and they are adorable together as they figure out Pingjing’s route - and where the enemy will lay a trap. Pingzhang figures it will be near the Qizhu stream.

- In the retinue, General Ji, who has come to escort the prisoner with his soldiers, suggests a rest stop at…*drumroll* Qizhu, which is well protected by two cliffs on the side and is a good spot for resting. However, its quite close to the capital, and Yuanqi has his doubts as to why theyre not quickly moving on. However Pingjing agrees to the arrangement haltingly. My spidey senses are already tingling!

- We again interrupt this transmission with a sweet moment between Lin Xi and Pingjing, who invites her to the capital, thinking she will work at Jifeng Hall and promises to show her all the sights which most people dont know of. Lin Xi declines in her own way.

- A note here about the relationship between Lin Xi and Pingjing, although I do love the trope where one part of the couple is Tsundere and the other person turns them around - I dont exactly get a pulse on the Lin Xi-Pingjing bond. Pingjing isn’t a smitten puppy, but a rather straightforward guy trying to thank Lin Xi for her help, while Lin Xi isnt’ tsundere, but more like a professional and an introvert? She deals with Pingjing like one would do with a colleague, albeit I do feel that she has added baggage from her mother’s promise not to marry Pingjing or from the military. If this was your typical tsundere type relationship I think I would be more drawn to it, but right now I just see them as partners more than anything else? IDK. I think Zhang Huiwen is doing a good job, as is Liu Haoran, but I don’t find the easy bknd between them yet.

- As they go back to camp, Pingjing is still on tenterhooks and wondering why Duan Tongzhou or the enemies are not here yet and why Magistrate Zhang is not speaking. But then, boom! Our Ancient Chinese Human Torch is here, flinging darts everywhere, his first line of attack being Poor Magistrate Zhang. Ouch! What a way for the poor man to go!

- Pingjing immediately starts retaliating, and a few air moves and dart vs sword fights later, Duan Tongzhou is surrounded by General Ji’s soldiers. However he is extremely calm in the face of this madness, and doesn’t make a move, instead asking Pingjing if he had never expected this. But in fact, Pingjing had.

- And then, the plot untwists itself and makes a Banruo level plan by the baddies. My explanation follows, however there may be some assumptions because I felt there were a few gaps in the explanation or the subs.

- Pingjing has deduced several things about the last attack in Datong, where policeman Qian was killed. The main question asked in the last episode was why was an insignificant man like Qian killed whereas Magistrate Zhang was spared? The plan was two-fold. Police dude Qian was a man with no living family or relatives, if arrested, it would be likely he would easily open his mouth and talk to Pingjing about Minister Song Fu’s treachery. On the other hand, Magistrate Zhang had a wife and kids whom he had sent away, as long as someone ‘took care’ of them - they could shut the man up and Pingjing would never know the truth.

- Who was ‘taking care’ of Zhang’s wife and kids? No one but General Ji! Pingjing’s suspicions had been roused by a few of General Ji’s questions regarding Zhang, and how he tried to distract Pingjing from meeting the witness. There, in flashback, it is shown General Ji had a jade ring that Zhang recognized and asked him to keep his mouth shut.

- But why was General Ji colluding with Duan and Song Fu? In a discussion between Tingsheng and Pingzhang, they suspect something that is later confirmed by Pingjing. Da Yu had used all their might to specifically attack Ganzhou fortress where Pingzhang was stated (whereas they usually battled at Meiling). And that too, right when there was a supply line cut off. Definitely Duan and General Ji had to be working together to somehow spread this news to Da Yu, who would attack and defeat Ganzhou easily - running across the flat plains southward into Da Liang, where there wpuld be no army good enough to stop them - until the Shanliu Army of General Ji in Qizhou, who were sufficient in strength and training to defeat the Da Yu army. General Ji would earn high merits and rewards for saving the Empire.

- I was like, wow, shit what a gameplay! Who will throw the dice next?

- But still, why was Zhang kept alive from the last skirmish? I suspect Duan Tongzhou did have the ability to kill Zhang but not the time, because of the presence of soldiers and Pingjing who is quite good at martial arts. He took the easier target Qian - who was more likely to confess, and in a way reminded General Ji that he too was involved in this mess. I feel it was sort of a mutually assured destruction-you scratch my back I scratch yours sort of arrangement. Duan Tongzhou (and his master) were clever enough to think along the same line as Tingsheng, which means they are terrifyingly intelligent - they knew that General Ji held a grudge, they knew Changlin manor would send for assistance to far off Qizhou, and therein lay their pawn and plan.

- General Ji, while escorting Zhang, could ensure his death at the hands of Duan - and the only blame that would fall on him was not guarding a witness carefully. The other witnesses, doctors and a boat captain could easily be discredited by higher powers at the Capital - and defeat the Changlin manor’s investigation. General Ji had already colluded with the baddies and passed info to Da Yu, and his crimes of treason would be revealed, which would be a sure death. So he undertook this journey as a pretext of securing merits.

- Also, one thing I forgot to mention - Magistrate Zhang is MIA! His prisoner carriage was skewered, but he wasnt there at all. Its now when Pingjing reveals of course they had seen through the whole plan, and Uncle Yuan had spirited away the witness somehow. Gee whiz IDK who is outsmarting whom anymore. *scratches head*

- General Ji is furious and burns in anger as to why the Changlin manor should score all merits, underlying a theme that we had discussed earlier, too much trust and imperial favour only leads to ruin, or at least, dire suspicions. This is one part of what had happened in the original NIF, where the Prince Qi- Lin family bond was hated by evil asses like Xia Jiang, and the power-hungry Xie Yu. Pingjing is furious when he hears those words, exclaiming that his dad’s years of service were not just for merits! But who is listening boy, def not all those jealous of your fam, nuh-uh!

- General Ji vows to kill them all because his army is loyal to him. Everyone draws their swords, including Yuanqi, however Duan is calm. (A point on Yuanqi - he has been super shocked at all these plots, showing complete naivete and anger at how these men wanted to hurt the common populace for their own ends. Although I am inclined to think he is more pure than I initially believed, I still sense he has this current of indignation that sparks through him. Anywhoooo…)

- Pingjing knows why Duan is calm as well, because something biiiig is gonna go down.(Does this boy know everything? WTF Hai Yan did you actually take out and write Lin Shu again? Because that is how I headcanon Lin Shu, loud, brash, too smart for his own good. Dont do this to me!)

- Duan Escapes and PJ follows for forest fight, but….someone comes to his aid! Who might this be, a beautiful woman whose martial arts skills are amazing? Why its DA SAO! Meng Qianxue, who is the Nihuang of this story is super competent, battling Duan with PJ and backing him into camp. She brings out the Changlin Army and the Military seal, arresting General Ji and his fuckers. Duan Tongzhou makes a last ditch attempt to escape again, but we only see the soldiers extinguishing fires in the aftermath.

- Back to our hurt puppy Pingjing, who is pissed off royally at Daddy for using him as a pawn in his game. Yuanqi, naive soul, asks Qianxue/DaSao (Imma call her DaSao from now because its cuter) how the Changlin manor was able to send soldiers right on time. And then Pingjing reveals the plot, wherein we see Daddy and Bro had discussed the ramifications of the Ganzhou attack, and deduced that General Ji would benefit the most - in order to not make any invalid accusations, they had sought his help. If he would escort them safely back to Jinling, he would earn rewards and otherwise - yeah you saw what happened otherwise. To test General Ji and train Pingjing, they had set up this entire plan.

- Pingjing calls his Dad a sly old fox (OMG), and he and Yuanqi discuss this plan with Da Sao and Uncle Yuan. Pingjing stomps off and vents cutely to Lin Xi who probably thinks where she can stick a needle to shut up the yapping puppy. However, Uncle Yuan reveals the real mastermind behind the plan is Pingzhang, which Pingjing never realises because older bro loves him soooo much and would never play him, right? Pingjing, darling, you definitely have some of your other granduncle in you too. The water-buffalo one.

- Changlin manor is being spruced up for Pingjing’s return, and Pingzhang and Da Sao float beautifully among the pavilions in obviously MCS and Nihuang aspired white and blue and fur, cutely cuddling everywhere. NIF2 you dont have to make remind us of the original, you’ve already knifed us bad in that one and want to hurt us again? Old Fox Tingsheng is scolding Pingjing and taking him to task for reckless endangerment when Sly young fox Da-ge intervenes and tells Pingjing dad has been praising him behind his back allll along. What is this a discourse on Asian parenting? because my family does the same thing. :/

- Meanwhile going back to our other smols, Yuanqi returns to his manor, where new character and Yuanqi’s mom, Grand Madame Laiyang scolds him for getting involved in these hijinks. Yuanqi is a sad puppy and wants to support as a member of the Royal family, but Yuanqi’s mom wants him far far away from any court politics. She seems like a very sad, very benevolent lady who just wants to protect her son, but as we will see in upcoming episodes, she’s gonna be a hidden snake.

Grand Madame Laiyang, Mother of Xiao Yuanqi, wife of the Emperor’s deceased brother

- Lin Xi enters the Jifeng Hall hospital at the capital, where her Master has instructed her to take over, and especially care for patient Pingzhang. Old Master Li, you still tryna matchmake?

- The next scene is that of Minister Song Fu getting taken in for questioning. In Minor Character moment of the day, Minister Song sits proud and regal in his office, his eyes sad and resigned, with a candle burning as the Ministry of Justice storms in. Once the decree is handed over, he silently undoes his ministerial hat, and blows out the candle. Again, I must give excellent credit to the directors and this supporting actor - in two minutes he made an impression on me with his acceptance of his fate, the extinguishing of his life. Minister Song didn’t seem like a very dastardly man to me, but definitely influenced by the wrong ideas and wrong people.

- The next few moments are what move me the most in NIF2: the cute-as-fuck Xiao Family. The extremely adorable Crown Prince (who has actually acted with Wang Kai before and now as his grandson!) runs to his father asking about Pingjing-gege, and the Emperor indulges him. Later, at Changlin manor, Da Sao and Pingzhang battle for Pingjing’s affections, one with food and one stealing the poor child’s food - and then uniting against Pingjing when he reveals Da Sao was adopted by their mother, and Pingzhang was so in love that he asked the Emperor to marry them off when Qianxue was only 14. (cue very much awkward child marriage moment).

- The next, and very sweet scene is between Jingyan’s two babies, Tingsheng and the Emperor. The current Emperor has definitely inherited Jingyan’s genes, beating himself up for his failure in spotting Song Fu’s treason and making his brother suffer. These events have made the Emperor depressed and his cough is back, which Tingsheng tries to chide his younger bro for not taking care of his health. They remember Jingyan at this moment, and Tingsheng and Emperor have this adorable exchange. Their voices are more serious but they are the PZ and PJ of their generation. (*CUE UGLY CRYING BECAUSE JINGYAN RAISED HIS BABIES SO WELL XIAO SHU ARE YOU WATCHING?)

- The Empress meets Rasputin/ High Priest Pu Yangying, and talks to him about prayers for the fallen at Ganzhou. Pu reminds her that of course, they have to take care of this well because the Emperor regards the Changlin Manor as much as the Eastern Palace. Cue the Empress breaking into hives. Pu Yangying also passes the information of the case Pingjing has brought, and that quite a few of Grand Secretary Xun’s students may be implicated. (Secretary Xun is the Empress’ older brother). At this the Empress trembles, because anything that happens to her brother, could lead to her deposition. Hmmm.

- At Court, the Minister of Justice presents his report on interrogating Song Fu. In a twist, Song has admitted to the military ship incident, but not to conniving with General Ji, whereas General Ji explicity states that Duan Tongzhou/PA Qin has contacted him on Song Fu’s behalf. This is the first whiff of a conspiracy which is deeper than we think. Song Fu has also submitted a list of conspirators, and as it is handed to the Emperor, Grand Secretary Xun ages 20 years in one moment, paling. Will he be in trouble? The End.

Thoughts:

Aaaah, I have so many thoughts on this episode, so many, but I will try to list them coherently.

But first, INCOHERENT SCREAMING ABOUT DA SAO BECAUSE SHE ROCKS MY WORLD. I like women in armour, women being knights and how cool is Da Sao with a sword? She saved your ass Pingjing.

DID I SAY HOW GAY I AM FOR DA SAO? Meng Qianxue is not only beautiful but smart and competent, and Tong Liya makes my heart flutter. If I ever want to write self-insert fic in NIF, sorry Wang Kai, Tong Liya may be my first choice now. :D She can murder me and I would be giving heart eyes from hell (aint nobody gonna send me to heaven, I’ve watched too much porn for that. :P).  

Next, NIF2 seems to handle plots a lot more directly and the exposition is simpler. For example, in NIF1 I was puzzling over how MCS actually managed to purchase Lan Yuan Mansion with the female skeletons, until 2-3 episodes later when we realise Tong Lu’s sister was there (in the book version Tong Lu’s cousins were raped by Minister Lou, and the info about the mansion was uncovered by research). Here, Pingjing and fam explain all the details very explicitly. I dont know whether I like it, but its definitely easier to follow.

Also I hope we never stop getting the sweet family moments. It’s like Hai Yan is the evil witch in Hansel and gretel, fattening us up with loveliness before we get stabbed in the heart.

Thanks for stopping by! These recaps are not going to be very funny (and I wonder if I can continue for 50 episodes), but I hope to keep trying.

[potterotterdrafts]

A Study in Sight

You're now chatting with a random stranger. Say hi!

You both like Parentlock, Omegaverse, and Johnlock.

Stranger: (blindlock: Sherlock lost his sight a few years ago in a lab accident) Sherlock was walking along his usual path home from work with his guide dog Einstein. It was a normal day, maybe a little bit warmer that usual. He stopped at a crosswalk and pressed the button but when he went to step away from it Sherlock tripped and landed on top of another person. He stood and apologized profusely, it wasn't like Einstein to forget to keep him from tripping over hazards on the sidewalk. It was only when he heard a girl giggling near Einstein that he realized what must have happened. He reached forward and gently touched a small hand before speaking, "Um excuse me, but Einstein is working right now and I need him to not be distracted," Sherlock said trying to be polite and hoping that her parent didn't mind him saying this to her. It still felt a bit rude telling people not to pet him but Sherlock had to get used to it. He had no choice.

You: "Rosie, stop it." John said, pulling the girl away from the dog. "Are you alright, sir? I didn't mean to trip you. I don't see any major injuries, but I don't want to take too many chances." John said as he quickly looked over the man, still trying to straighten his own clothes out and still keeping his toddler away from the dog. "I'm so sorry for my daughter distracting your guide dog. I promise I'll have a strict word with her when we get home....if we make it home in one piece." he said, exhausted. It had been a long morning already, with Rosie showing her attitude in bright colors. "Rosamund." He said sternly as the little girl reached out. He picked her up. "Enough." he settled her on his him. "Its, uh, safe to cross." he told the man, as they headed in the same direction.

Stranger: "Thank you, and really there's no trouble. Einstein and I were just heading to the park so he could play. We don't really have enough space to play fetch in the flat," Sherlock said with a laugh and scratched Einstein before giving him his focus command. Instantly the dog was back on the job and paying close attention to any potential obstacles. "He's been a fairly recent addition to my Iife so we are still learning all there is about each other."

You: "Play!" Rosie repeated. "Play, Daddy." John sighed. "No, Rosie. You've been a bad little girl. No park this morning." He told her, to which her bottom lip began to quiver. "Don't start that, Ro, please..." John begged, shaking his head. "He's a well behaved dog. His training has clearly paid off." John said as he moved with the stranger. "Before Rosie came along and touched him, he was clearly on a mission. Perhaps he could teach her how to be a better listener for me."

Stranger: "May I explain to her how important he is?" Sherlock offered with a gentle smile as the lab lead him through the busy sidewalks. He knew where they were going quite well. He had a lot of trust for the pup already even if they hadn't been partner's for long.

You: John nodded before he realized the stranger couldn't see him. "Yea, of course, but I should warn you she's not even three yet." John turned the pouting girl in his arms to face the stranger. "Rosie, no stop with the crocodile tears. I want you to listen to this nice gentleman. He wants to tell you about his service dog, yes? And why you shouldn't play with them while they're working." They stopped, just out of the line of steady foot traffic so that the man could speak to his daughter. "She's all ears." he told the man.

Stranger: "So miss Rosie, my dog's name is Einstein. He helps me to go places because I can't see anymore. I got hurt. But because of him I can walk around and find my way to where I should go. When you touch him while hes helping me it distracts him and means that he cant keep me safe. That's why I bumped intonyour daddy. So if you see a dog with a special vest like what Einstein has on you should always ask if you can pet before you do," Sherlock explained after lowering himself so Rosie could see him a little better.

You: Rosie continued to pout as the man spoke to her. "I hurt Eye-sty?" she asked. John couldn't help but chuckle. "No, Rosie, you didn't hurt Einstein." Rosie nodded, reaching out to wrap her arms around the stranger. "Rosie, love, you really shouldn't touch people without their permission either. What did the nice man /just/ say?" Rosie gave the man a kiss on the cheek. "Sorry." she said. "No touching Eye-sty" John sighed. "I'm terribly sorry." he said to the man. "She's usually better behaved, especially in public. Rosie let go of the man." John said. "I just sayin' sorry, Daddy."

Stranger: Sherlock chuckled softly and gave the little girl a hug back, "It's alright, now you make sure you listen to your daddy today alright?" Sherlock gave the little girl a smile and and turned his face to John, "she's such a sweet little thing. It's alright, I adore children.... I'm Sherlock by the way," the brunette said and ran a hand through his curls hoping he hadn't caused one to stick up randomly.

You: Rosie nodded to the man as she returned to burrow into John. "Thank you. Most people, after having been practically assaulted on the sidewalk, wouldn't be so genial." He chuckled. "John." he said. "John Watson. It's nice to meet you, Sherlock, wish it had been better circumstances." he looked the man over once more, making sure everything was in place before he turned to Rosie. "Sorry again for all the hassel. Have fun at the park." John said, bidding the man goodbye. "Bye, Eye-sty". Rosie called, waving to the puppy as they headed off down the sidewalk.

You: *hassle

Stranger: Sherlock grinned and hand Einstein do one of his tricks for Rosie. He could stand on his back end and wave with his front paw. He gave the dog a treat before walking on with the harness firmly in his hand. As the day went on he and Greg went to the grocery store. While he could do most things he still hadn't manages shopping alone just yet but he was learning quickly. The two of them were going through pasta sauces when he heard a familiar little girl's voice a couple aisles over.

You: "Biscuits!" Rosie practically shouted. "We need biscuits, Daddy." John shushed the little girl. "Yes, love, I know we need biscuits." he told the little girl, plucking a couple of packages off the shelf. He tossed them in his cart as the little girl kicked her feet from her position in the front of the cart. "We also need to figure out what to have for dinner tonight." he said, making his way down the aisle and turning onto the next. " 'Ghetti!" Rosie giggled. "You, darling, are going to turn into a noodle if you keep it up." he pressed a kiss to her forehead and moved down the aisle. "Eye-sty! Daddy, look!" John glanced up. What were the chances. "Lucky for him you can't get down." John teased. "Have any recommendations for sauces?" he asked as they came to stand beside the pair of men.

Stranger: Sherlock turned to the sound of the voice with a bright smile, well that was unexpected. "Who would have thought that we shopped in the same grocery store," Sherlock chuckled as Greg walked up to them. "So this is the handsome sounding father you were telling me about," The older man said making Sherlock blush and punch in his general direction. Landing a lit.to the ribs. "Shut up Greg. Though I must say my favorite sauce is vodka sauce if you're interested."

Stranger: Hit to*

You: Rosie leaned over her seat, giddy with excitement. "Wanna play, Daddy." John shook his head. "No, Rosie, remember what Mr. Sherlock said earlier. You can't play with the dog while he's working. You'll hurt Sherlock again." Rosie grumbled but quieted down as she continued to stare at the dog beside Sherlock. "I'm handsome, are I?" He teased as the second man joined them. "Did he also tell you that my daughter nearly caused Sherlock to fracture his skull on the sidewalk. I, luckily, broke his fall." John said, pointing to his shoulder. "Thanks, Sherlock, I'll keep that in mind."

Stranger: "Sherlck here said your voice sounded nice so he thought you wpuld be handsome. Im sure he wil habe me describe you him later," Greg said with a grin while Sherlock didn't say anything and just tried his best to hide his blushing face. Hehe pushed his sunglasses up a little showing a tiny bit of the heavily burned areas from his accident but he didn't think about what he was doing in the moment.

Stranger: Sherlock*

You: "Can I trust you to do me justice?" he asked the man. He stuck out his hand. "John Watson. It's nice to meet you. This is my daughter Rosie." The little girl looked up and waved before quickly turning her attention back to the dog. "Be sure to add a few inches to my height and I'd like it if you didn't tell him about all the new gray hairs." John chuckled pointing to his head. "And make sure you remind him I'm a doctor. Helps when trying to convince someone to have dinner, after all." John glanced over to Sherlock as the man quietly shifted out of embarrassment. John immediately noticed the scars, but didn't mention them. "Nothing to worry about, Sherlock, Greg's just teasing, I'm sure. I'm a hideous, troll of a man, who's only got his voice going for him."

Stranger: "This is what I get fr trusting my brothers husband to help me with shopping," Sherlock said with a soft laugh and shook his head. He finally realized his glasses were out of place and he quickly put them back. Even though he couldn't see the scarring he was self conscious about it. There was still some visible across his new and around the edges of the classes but it wasn't too bad there and wasn't usually noticed. Fred just rolled his eyes and gave Sherlock a little push towards John, "didn't you say you were going to ask him out if you ever saw him again?" Sherlock's blush went to the tips of his ears after that and he was glad that he couldn't see j ohns cleave because surely the an would turn him down after this.

You: When Sherlock was pushed in his direction, John's hands automatically went up, worried the man was going to stumble again. When he was certain Sherlock was steady on his feet, John reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a business card. He looked up in Sherlock's direction, waiting for the man to speak. When he noticed how shy the man had suddenly become he smirked. "Well, I would love to have dinner with you, Sherlock, when you're free." He passed the card to Greg. "You'll have to be nice to Greg though, if you want my number. Can't have you thinking I'm too easy. You'll lose interest." he chuckled. "Thanks for the recommendation, by the way." John said, leaning in close to Sherlock as he pulled a jar of sauce off the shelf. "Don't wait too long to call." he returned to his cart and put the jar down. "Bye, Eye-sty!" Rosie waved as they turned onto the next aisle.

Stranger: Sherlock had to take a little to calm himself after John walked away. He could smell the man's cologne where they had brushed for just a moment. His heart was completely racing. The shopping was done and Sherlock managed to get the number from Greg. He waited until the next morning to call John and when he got vicemai Sherlock left what felt like the most awkward message of his life. "Hi john... um. It's Sherlock obviously. I was wondering if you would like to have dinner tonight? You can bring Rosie if you want to...I normally have dinner ready by 7 and I 'll I've at 221b Baker street. I understand if you don't want but... Yeah. Text me, my phone reads the messages out to me. Bye."

You: John had a busy day seeing patients so he didn't have time to check his phone regularly. It was mid afternoon when he finally had a break in appointments and was able to listen to the new voicemail. He sat at his desk chuckling. Sherlock seemed nervous on the call. John found it rather adorable. He pulled up his messages, punching in Sherlock's number. 'Hey, Sherlock, I'm sorry for the late response..it's been a hell of a day. I'd love to have dinner this evening with you. Though I don't want Rosie torturing your service dog or destroying your flat, so I'll leave her with the sitter. See you closer to seven? John'

Stranger: Sherlock had been staring at his phone for ages and the second that he got some kind of response from John he was up doing his best to clean his flat a little. His home was the first hing he'd memorized just now there was less lab equipment. The only left was a microscope and a box of slides to commemorate when he used to be able to see. He didn't want to give it up even if he knew that he couldn't use it anymore. Finally when the flat seemed reasonably clean Sherlock answered John's text 'Sounds great, my flat is the upstairs one. You can just walk in. Sherlock' God he was terrified but he was soon in the kitchen preparing pasta and Alfredo to go with the chicken he had Greg season the night before. He put two breasts in the oven and waited. While things cooked and he waited for the pasta to boil Sherlock showered and shaved carefully before dressing in a suit, trying to look nice for John.

You: The message came through quickly. John raised the phone and called Rosie's regular sitter. He hung up and finished his afternoon paper work before he left to retrieve Rosie from daycare. The next few hours passed quickly as John fed Rosie dinner and bathed both of them. John put on a fresh jumper and slacks, checking himself in the mirror before the bell rang. He let the sitter in, thanked her for coming over on such short notice and left his flat. At Baker Street, John stood looking up at the building for a few long moments before he eventually stepped inside. He took a deep breath and moved upstairs, knocking on the door frame. "Sherlock?" he called. "It's John."

Stranger: "In the kitchen," Sherlock called as he drained off the pasta. His microscope had been moved from the table to the counter and Sherlock had set up the table as neatly as he could. He was nervous and it showed in his shoulders but ue would get through it. Einstein was in his bed by the fire happily chewing on his newest squeaky toy.

You: John moved through the flat and into the kitchen. He stopped beside Sherlock at the sink, looking over the man. "I'm clearly under dressed for the occasion." He teased. "You look lovely though. Nice color on you." He looked down at the pasta. "Do you need help with anything? I don't mind earning my meal, you know?"

Stranger: "Is it the purple shirt? I was hoping to get the purple one," Sherlock said with a smile at John and shook his head. "It's almost done. I just need to put the sauce on the pasta. Thank you though," Sherlock didn't ordinarily put his sunglasses on when he was home but he did it for John. After all the blonde didn't need to see all of that. He returned the pasta to the pot before adding in the sauce and stirring it all up. "There we go, now I just need plates."

You: "It is the purple one." John said. "You must have quite a system worked out in your closet. I bet I'd be a complete train wreck." he said, leaning against the counter as Sherlock began to assemble the pasta, carefully stirring the sauce to combine everything. "I hope Greg didn't give you too much fuss after Rosie and I left yesterday. You looked ready to crawl under a rock with the way he was teasing you." John chuckled. "Here...let me help with the plates." John said. "I really don't mind."

Stranger: "He's my brother in law. I suppose it's kind of his job to embarrass me," Sherlock said with a small laugh and directed him to the cabinet with the plates while he took the chicken from the oven and got forks and things. He was beginning to relax a little since the conversation seemed quite easy.

You: John pulled down two plates for them, setting them on the counter. "Still, not the best way to go about meeting your future boyfriend, right? By being embarrassed by a brother, no matter the relationship." John teased. He helped Sherlock fill their plates and took them to the table. "This looks delicious." he said, sitting down at one of the places. "Thanks for cooking for us. This is definitely my kind of date. A quiet night in, good company." John glanced over at Sherlock, eyes hesitating for a moment on the glasses. "Are you feeling alright after our collision from yesterday?"

Stranger: "I'm perfectly fine, I just hope you aren't hurt I did land right on top of you," Sherlock said.with a smile and placed his plate down. "I don't drink really but I've got sparkling cider if that's alright," Sherlock said and nodded to the wine glasses had set out on the table. He hoped that John wouldn't mind. Though he had a feeling that he could do nearly anything and John would be alright with it.

You: "Yeah, that's fine." John poured them each a glass. "My shoulder's a bit sore, but that's not all unusual." he said, beginning to cut his chicken. "I got shot a few years ago while I was deployed. It aches regularly if I sleep on it wrong, or do too much lifting and the like. It'll feel better in a day or two." He took a bite of food, humming as he looked over Sherlock. "So, tell me about yourself, Sherlock. What sort of work do you do?"

You: (brb)

Stranger: "I'm not actually working right now... I'm still trying to adjust to my lack of sight but I keep myself occupied and I occasionally call Greg an idiot when he doesn't notice something. It's interesting having to learn to read in an entirely new way," Sherlock hummed and smiled at John. "I used to be a detective, self employed I would help the police when they needed it but after my accident, I had to step away from all of that."

You: (Hi, sorry!)

You: "Ah, right. I was going to ask, but then thought better of it." John said when they man mentioned his accident. "I didn't want to be as rude as Rosie was the other day. I..I saw your scars at the grocery store. They didn't look like they'd been healed long..." John said carefully. "I'm sorry, for whatever happened, I can't imagine what you've been through. Getting hurt and then having to relearn practically every part of your life...." John took another bite of pasta, chewing carefully. "If it's any consolation...I've got a hell of a scar too. Maybe I can let you examine mine some time."

Stranger: "It hasn't been long, only two years. When they tell you that you shouldn't look into a breaker while a reaction is happening and you should always wear goggles, I should have listened," Sherlock said and looked to John. "They're actually not even completely healed... the part near where my eyes were has been rather stubborn," Sherlock hummed but gave a little smile when John said he would show him the car had gotten. "I'd like of you did John, thank you. And getting shot like you did can't be any less traumatic I would imagine."

You: John shook his head. "No, it was still very traumatic." he said. "I've suffered a while with PTSD. I still have nightmares some times. Wake up in cold sweats, heart racing in my chest, right back in that war zone." John took a sip of his cider, as the silence filled the space between them. "But it's getting better. I've got Rosie now. She's been a godsend, really. I'm trying to raise her well, but then she goes and causes accidents and I wonder if I'm failing her as a parent." he chuckled. "I'm fairly certain she would have tried to pet Einstein again at the grocery store, if she hadn't have been in the cart."

Stranger: "That's alright. You said she wasn't even three yet, it takes time for things like that to process, I think you're a fine father John. I just wonder how I was lucky enough to catch someone like you as single. From Greg's description I was right in thinking you are handsome as well," Sherlock smiled and sipped his own cider before finishing off his chicken. He didn't really eat much and he was already full so he just set his fork down to talk with John.

You: John grimmaced. "Oh god, I'm not sure I want to know what he told you about me." he chuckled. "I bet he embellished a bit. He seemed quite eager to force you into a date. Is your brother-in-law always like that? Or is he just so happy in love that he thinks /everyone/ else should be too?" John finished his dinner and leaned back in the chair. "Not that I'm complaining much. You're a beautiful man, Sherlock, especially in that suit you've got on."

Stranger: "He's been trying to get my confidence back up... this is the first date I've been on since I lost my sight," Sherlock explained and stood. He wrapped his plate in plastics wrap before putting it in the fridge. He then went to get j ohns so he could was it and start getting everything cleaned up.

You: "Well, I'm flattered then. Seems I was finally dealt a winning hand." he teased. "You didn't eat much, are you feeling alright?" he asked, moving towards Sherlock at the sink. "I hope I haven't been a terrible conversationalist this evening. I know it hasn't been the happiest of topics we've gotten on."

Stranger: "Oh I'm fine, I don't normally eat much," Sherlock smiled. He really didn't. He just didn't have the appetite of a normal person. "I've enjoyed our conversation too believe it or not. I don't really get the chance to talk to others as much now that I pretty much stay home unless I have to go out," Sherlock hummed and reached to takes j ohns hand and reassure him whole he washed.

Stranger: While*

You: John gave Sherlock's hand a squeeze. "Well, good. That's a relief, really. I haven't dated much since Rosie came along. Haven't had much time." he said. He noticed the kettle on the stove and moved to retrieve it, stealing a bit of Sherlock's running water. "Nothing better than a warm cup of tea on the sofa after a lovely dinner, right?" John asked. "Unless you had planned on kicking me out?" he asked, glancing towards Sherlock as the water began to boil. "Don't want to over stay my welcome and ruin my chances for a second date."

Stranger: "Tea sounds lovely but make sure you put whatever you take exactly in the same place. I'll never find it otherwise," Sherlock hummed and gave the blonde a bright smile. "Speaking of rosie... I was wondering how someone as amazing as you became a single parent," Sherlock asked. He'd answered questions about his eyes so he thought that maybe he could get that bit of information from John.

You: "Promise." He said. "Or maybe I'll just leave the kettle somewhere different so you're forced to call me again." he teased, giving Sherlock's arm a squeeze as he pulled down two cups for them. He popped in the tea bags and poured the boiling water over them to steep. "Well..." he began. "I was married for a few years. wife got pregnant while I was on R&R. When I got shot and came home, she announced she couldn't be a soldier's wife or a mother anymore. Never knew for sure, but I thought she was cheating on me after Rosie was born."

Stranger: "She lost an amazing man," Sherock said softly and went to give John a small hug, hoping he wasn't pushing things too far. He really did like John he found and May be this would work out well. A first date going so well had to be a good sign.

You: John was surprised when Sherlock wrapped his long arms around him. "You don't know enough about me to make such a statement." he teased, wrapping his own arms around Sherlock. "This is nice..." he said. "Not your typical first date. Much more...interesting." he teased as they stood together in the kitchen. "Do you always hug without permission, Sherlock Holmes?"

Stranger: "Only when I feel it is fitting," Sherlock said with a grin and hummed softly. He took one of his hands and reached for John's face, gently feeling his featured and tracing shapes, "Greg's description on your face shape was accurate. He said your eyes are a very dark blue too."

You: John nodded. "They are, yeah. Not nearly as captivating as yours..." he said as Sherlock's fingers worked over his face. John closed his eyes, standing perfectly still so that Sherlock could memorize the shape and feel. "Like what you feel?" he asked, happy that he'd had time to shower and shave before their date. He would have hated to still smell like the surgery with Sherlock this close.

Stranger: Sherlock shook his head a little, "my eyes are damaged and destroyed. They aren't anything like yours." He was kind of glad that Rosie had distracted Einstein now because he'd never felt his heart race like this for someone before.

You: "They may be different than they were, Sherlock, but even under those glasses I'm certain they still hold enough mysteriousness to captivate all of London." John said quietly. "Your scars...they hold a hell of a story of the troubles you've endured to get where you are. Accident or not."

Stranger: Sherlock nodded and used his free hand to take his glasses off. He looked down a little unsure of how John would react to the extensive damage. He'd never shown any one but mycroft what his face liked like after the accident so he was understandably nervous. His brother had told him that there wasn't much of his eyes remaining. But he wasn't sure about the accuracy of that.

You: John's heart broke as Sherlock took off his glasses. "Oh, Sherlock...." he began. He was quiet for a long time before he reached up and brushed his thumb over Sherlock's cheek. "Still beautiful." he said quietly. He took Sherlock's other hand, taking a few steps back and raising it to his shoulder. It took a bit of maneuvering, as John had to turn around, but eventually he was able to slip the tips of Sherlock's fingers under his jumper, letting Sherlock feel the starburst shaped scar. "Not the same thing, but a promise is a promise, after all."

Stranger: Sherlock nodded and felt over the scar as best he could but he'd have to feel more later on. "I'll keep my glasses on when Rosie is around, I don't want to scare her," Sherlock said and leaned down to rest his head on John's shoulder lightly while he still felt the scar.

You: "Maybe just for a little while." John said. "But I think it's safe to tell her once she gets to know you." Eventually John turned around in Sherlock's arms. "Does this mean I get a second date?" he asked, smirking. "I don't have anymore scars or war stories to tell, but I've got a lot a toddler who's in love with your dog and who's got more force than a tiny tornado."

Stranger: "Id love to go on a second date with you John, this is probably the best first date I've ever had," Sherlock said with a smile and pressed a small kiss to John's cheek, trying to be brave.

Stranger: "Id love to go on a second date with you John, this is probably the best first date I've ever had," Sherlock said with a smile and pressed a small kiss to John's cheek, trying to be brave.

You: John couldn't help but chuckle. "Perfect." he said. "I was nervous, you know? Had no idea what I was going to talk to you about. Thought I may be over zealous in my apologies after yesterday. Not really the best way to win a first or second date." he teased.

Stranger: "You won me over easily," Sherlock said with a smile. He placed his glasses on the counter, not feeling like he needed them after John called him beautiful without them.

You: "Glad to see I haven't lost all my charm." he teased. "Now, I was told there would be tea and a bit of canoodling on the sofa before I have to leave and return to my fatherhood duties." he said, releasing Sherlock and grabbing their tea. "Shall we?"

Stranger: Sherlock giggled at John, "Did you really just say canoodling? That's amazing." He was glad that John was happy to spend tome with him and Sherlock knew it was too early for it but he hoped it would turn into something amazing.

You: John hummed, following after Sherlock. "I did, yes. When you become a father you find yourself saying all sorts of silly words." He waited for Sherlock to settle before holding out the mug. "Like canoodling, kerfluffal, hankypanky. There's a dictionary for dad's, you know. Stork drops it off with the baby."

Stranger: Sherlock giggled again and sipped his tea with a hum. "Mmm maybe hankypanky is a little risque for a two year old though," Sherlock grinned and tucked himself against John's side when the blonde sat down.

You: "Doesn't always have to be risque." he reminded the detective, slipping an arm around Sherlock as they sat in front of the fire. "I'd show you the dictionary, but I'm not sure you have the proper clearance." he chuckled.