#of an actual lab test rather than a quick test

[sundavr]

I mean, excellent concept, but if you need blood, you are getting a blood test. Like this is something they do redundant checks on because of the consequences ™ if it gets fucked up.

this started as a joke but then i started actually thinking about it and now im really annoyed that IDs have this one letter that doesnt mean anything for cis people and is a huge pain in the ass for trans people when we could instead have literally lifesaving information so emergency medical services could just check ur wallet to see which blood to give you so you dont die or whatever But No

[lowkeyrobin]

can u write a tmr newt x gn!reader where they were really close in the glade but slowly started to drift off of their friendship when they were in wckd compartments but got together again during one of the scorch nights(angst to fluffy thingy) tried my best to make it make sense:^)

ooo okay okay I got you ; idk I just had zero ideas for this?? I apologize lmao, I got like the basis of what you wanted, I'm just posting bc I spent way too long making just this 💀

NEWT ; rekindling a friendship in the scorch

summary ; friends to not friends to friends again in the scorch

warnings ; language

word count ; 959

masterlist

You and Newt were inseparable in the Glade. You did nearly everything together, following each other around, finding comfort in one another. It changed once you escaped the maze, however.

Even though you shared a room in your new home inside a lab, it didn't help whatsoever. After that first warm shower, everything between you two just changed.

You were never able to have lunch with your friends, always being pulled away for more and more testing. You'd seen Newt following Thomas around like a lost dog.

Between all the stress and physical deterioration, you didn't have time to talk or share thoughts with him anymore. He seemed to think the same way as you basically ignored each other as the days passed. Everything seemed to be a problem now, even though no words were spoken, only looks, or for that matter, the lack of them.

Upon finding out that WCKD was never gone in the first place, you quickly join the escape with your new friend Aris, crawling around through the vents at dark. The escape was quick and calculated, and nearly ended in death, probably a solid fourteen times. But, your group escaped to the dark, sandy scorch outside.

Bergs fly overhead, lights shining onto the sand in search of you. You all ran through the rough terrain as fast as you could and hid behind a large area of hills, waiting for them to retreat, hoping they wouldn't find you.

Unluckily, you slid down next to Newt, not a glance shared between you two. You instead looked over at Aris and Thomas to your right, making sure they were both in one piece.

The long, painful hike through the scorch continued, Newt behind Thomas and Teresa while you were behind those three, then Minho and Fry. Winston and Aris were behind you, symmetrically separating you and Newt.

The night passes, hours and hours of walking and sweat fatiguing you.

You stumble upon a mall, building up your outfits and learning some more about the Cranks that flooded the scorch. Your fight through the mall was intense and still really God damn awkward as you found yourself helping Newt up off the floor after being tripped, nearly left for dead for the Cranks.

You sprint behind the group, catching up as Thomas leads you to the exit.

Once the adrenaline wore off, it was back to the exhausting trudging through the sand.

You kept your distance with Newt, especially after Winston had fallen ill to the Flare Virus. You'd both known Winston for most of the time you could remember about your lives. The pain after hearing the lonely gunshot in the distance stopped you all in your tracks before continuing some moments later.

The days were far too long for the group of teenagers. Why you were all bundled up in a desert was beyond you, but you'd take listening to the others rather than dying because you didn't cover up. No one knew who was actually immune or not, so it wouldn't be worth it to try and test it out.

You'd taken refuge under some rocks in a little flatland area in the desert once it hit dark. You'd barely spoken in the past few days, malnourished and exhausted. You, Aris, Fry, and Newt are the stragglers left awake, baking cans of beans over the fire while also tending to it, making sure the others got some warmth as they slept.

As the hours passed, Fry and Aris fell asleep, cuddling up in the heavy clothing they found extra warmth in. Who knew a desert would be freezing once the sun had set? Obviously not you, since most of any important memory ever had been wiped, but yknow.

That left you and Newt awake, sitting a few feet away from each other, an awkward silence among you. You tap your fingers on the sand beneath you, then graze them around in little patterns, unable to find yourself tired even if you wanted to. You were exhausted tired, not sleepy tired, sadly.

The blonde surprisingly speaks up.

"Thanks for saving my ass in the mall"

You glance over at him, then look back down at the sand beneath your fingertips. You nod. "Yeah, anytime"

He slowly nods, looking out at the empty miles of sand and dirt surrounding you in all directions. "Is something wrong between us?" He asks, "You haven't been talking to me at all, and you've always got this intimidating look on your face when I look over at you, so I mean, I didn't wanna bother you, ya know?"

You shrug in response. "I mean, it started back at that lab. They were always testing on me and I was just tired, but once we escaped I kinda thought you were trying to ignore me. I dunno, sorry if I read that wrong"

His expression morphs to one of sadness and guilt before wrapping you in a hug, pulling you closer to him.

"I'm sorry, I wasn't trying to ignore you, Y/n"

You lightly smile, wrapping your arms around him. "Sorry for kind of being a bitch about it"

"Look, I'll give you the benefit of the doubt. We did kind of escape the maze, then WCKD after being tricked, and we've been running through this bloody desert for days. I don't blame you. If anything, I'll blame Rat-Man for burning you out with testing in that lab. " The dirty blonde smiles, patting your back.

"Oh, thank you, Newt. How could I ever repay you?" You chuckle, pulling away from the hug as he does.

He shrugs, a devious yet smug smirk on his face. "You could repay me in water?"

"My cantine has been empty since this morning!"

"Damnit"

[mktskii]

—Fixing More Than Gear

—Synopsis: The Support Course midterm project is supposed to be a breeze—design a piece of gear, find a model to test it, and call it a day. But when your quiet plan to work with someone under the radar takes a surprising turn, you find yourself caught up in an unexpected situation. Bakugou, the annoying jerk who keeps coming to you to fix his stuff, has other ideas for your project, and for some reason, he won't leave you alone. What happens when a simple request turns into something far more complicated?

—Pairing: Bakugou Katsuki x AFAB + Support Course!Reader.

—Genre: Slow-burn romance, slice-of-life.

—Tags: Enemies-to-lovers, banter, RBF reader, grumpier x grumpest, miscommunication, one-sided crush continues (HAHA), support course expertise, Bakugou struggling even more with feelings, Bakugou literally wants reader so bad lol, reader is tired of everyone's shit, reader is so done with Bakugou's bs, reader CANNOT catch signals, this slow-burn actually killed me to type down but i will NOT end this series cuz i love this too much.

It’s that time of year—midterms. Everyone in U.A. has to do some kind of big assignment, but for the Support Course, it's something special. This year, Power Loader, the faculty member overseeing the Support Development Studio, made things easy—or so he thought. The task? Create any kind of support gear you want and have someone from U.A. model and test it. Preferably a hero course student, but anyone would do.

That’s how the chaos started.

Class 1-A quickly became a battlefield of Support Course students swarming the top three—Bakugou, Todoroki, and Midoriya. They begged, pleaded, and even offered bribes to get one of them to model their gear. Bakugou? He was having none of it. He exploded (literally and verbally) at anyone who dared approach him with the idea of "modeling." He was a hero-in-training, not a damn mannequin.

But here’s the thing. Deep down, even though Bakugou found the entire situation annoying, he kind of… maybe… secretly… wanted you to ask him.

Bakugou, being Bakugou, had his own reputation to maintain, and there was no way in hell he was going to make the first move. You were supposed to come to him. You knew him, after all. You fixed his gear (and stuff he deemed needing fixing from you personally) all the time. So, it made sense for you to pick him, right? He found a way to sort of pay you back for everything you've done for him.

But then, when he found out that you picked Shinsou Hitoshi from General Studies? Oh, that was when the sparks really flew. You were actually polite to Shinsou, working with him without any of the usual sarcasm or snark you threw at Bakugou. And the fact that Shinsou wasn’t even in the hero course? That stung. You’d seriously rather ask someone from General Studies than ask THE Bakugou Katsuki? Seriously?

He wasn’t jealous. Definitely not. It wasn’t about you. It was about proving that he should have been your first choice. That this was a way for him to say 'thanks' without actually having to say it.

Right?

Now Bakugou had a choice. He could let it go, let you work with Shinsou and forget about the whole thing. Or, he could try something a little out of his comfort zone—actually asking (or forcing..) you into picking him instead. And being Bakugou, there was no way he was going to let something he wanted slip away.

One afternoon, Bakugou stomped his way into the Support Lab, making his presence known with his usual dramatic flair. Everyone else working in the lab was still trying to get used to it by now, and you? You didn’t even glance up from your workbench.

Bakugou, holding up a busted watch, plopped it onto your workspace with an annoyed grunt. “Fix it,” he demanded, his tone implying you owed him something.

You gave him a quick, disinterested glance.

"Again?" you ask, raising an eyebrow, but not really paying much attention. It's just a watch. He watched as you picked the watch up and muttered something about how it didn’t look that broken. You got to work and it took about 2 minutes since, cmon. You’ve fixed way more complicated things for him before. But this was seriously starting to get out of hand.

While you work on his watch, Bakugou starts subtly bringing up the subject of the midterm projects. Or, as subtle as he can be, which is basically him complaining about how much everyone in the Support Course sucks.

“They keep askin’ me to model for their stupid gear,” he grumbles, crossing his arms and glaring at the mess of support tools on your desk.

"Yeah, that sounds about right," you mutter, already tired of the topic. “Everyone’s desperate.”

You don’t think much of it, just nodding in agreement because, yeah, Support Course students were pretty much throwing themselves at any hero course student (hell, any student at this point.) that would listen. But Bakugou? He's trying his hardest to steer the conversation in a particular direction.

“So, who are you gettin’ to be your model?” he asks, barely masking the irritation in his voice. His eyes are on you, waiting for your response.

You shrug. “I already got Shinsou from General Studies. He agreed.”

That’s when Bakugou’s patience starts wearing thin. His jaw clenches, and he has to fight every urge to not let his temper flare up. He already knew that, but hearing it straight from you? That you seriously picked Shinsou? Over him? That stung more than he'd ever like to acknowledge.

“That guy? What’s his Quirk again? Mind control or somethin’?” Bakugou scoffs, trying to hide the fact that he’s more annoyed than usual.

“Yeah,” you answer, without looking up. “He’s quiet. Doesn’t complain much. Gets the job done.”

Bakugou can feel his eye twitch. You hadn’t even thought of him? He nearly short-circuited on the spot, but forced himself to stay calm. His brain screamed at him to not blow it. So, he tried another tactic. “Tch, why not pick someone better? Like… I dunno, a hero or some shit?”

You didn’t even blink. “Like who? Power Loader said it could be anyone. Shinsou’s quieter.”

"Someone who’d actually make your damn gear look good," Bakugou mutters, trying to drop the hint, but you’re completely oblivious.

“Yeah? Well, no one comes to mind.”

Bakugou's temper is rising, but he knows if he blows up, it'll ruin the whole thing. He takes a breath—short, angry, but controlled—and tries one last time.

"I could do it so much better than that sleep-eyed loser." There it was. He had practically laid it out for you, all but outright saying he wanted you to pick him. But instead of jumping at the opportunity, you just handed him his now-fixed watch, scoffed, and said, “Cool, well, good luck with your own midterm.”

Bakugou blinked. That’s it? You didn’t even catch the hint? You probably thought he was joking or something. But, still! Was that not obvious enough?

He took the watch, his frustration boiling to the surface. He wanted to scream, “I’M TRYING TO HELP YOU, DAMMIT!” but instead, he just gritted his teeth and stormed out, the door rattling behind him. You went back to your work, entirely unaware of the emotional crisis Bakugou was going through just because you didn’t ask him to model for your damn project.

As the door slammed shut behind him, you couldn't help but feel a twinge of confusion about your interaction. Had Bakugou actually wanted you to ask him? Or was he just being a jerk, as usual?

It didn’t matter. You had Shinsou lined up, and Bakugou was just Bakugou.

But inside, his spirit felt shattered. Why was it so hard to just admit he wanted to be chosen? Why did he have to play this game when all he wanted was to spend more time with you?

As Bakugou walked away, he realized he couldn’t let this opportunity slip through his fingers. This was his chance to prove himself, not just as a hero but as someone you might actually choose.

He’d find a way to make it happen. No matter what it took.

Reblogs and comments are appreciated <3

‧₊˚tags:

@caaaddddyyy

@fta1ask4

@matchat3a

[fatuismooches]

Can be read as a continuation of this. Fragile reader's journey to understand all the segments continues as this time they set their eyes on none other than Webttore, who is referred to as 02 in this fic. I miss Webby, everyone. Overall, just lots of fluff.

After a few centuries-long coma, when you woke up, the hardest thing to process wasn’t that fact. It wasn’t the fact your lover, who now went by “Dottore” instead of “Zandik” was now a powerful Harbinger. It wasn’t the fact you had to deal with this illness for who knows how long (actually, this was quite hard to process, but you tried your best not to dwell on it.) Rather, it was the fact that Dottore now had copies of himself running around. And if you were to properly adjust to your new life, you absolutely had to make room for them. But that was easier said than done.

They were all Zandik, but at the same time, they felt like strangers to you. They were familiarly enigmatic as you had remembered the original one, but you weren’t sure if you were good enough to puzzle each of them out all over again… However, pursuing Zandik as a student meant that you certainly were a persistent soul, so you would try!

You had already found company in another segment, 24 to be exact. At first, you were unsurprisingly intimidated by him, with his imposing nature and stern voice. However, with a bit of courage, you were able to get to know him a bit more, outside of what you saw of him while he was working. It was a lovely experience, if you put aside how his words made your heart race, and his touch made your body ache for him.

Regardless, now that you had 24 down, it was time to broaden your horizons. It was time to put your newly found confidence to the test once again - which meant it was time for you to woo and get wooed by another one of Dottore’s segments. Which segment was it this time, one may ask? Well, it was none other than the one who donned that white and black mask, with a pink bowtie where that color too lurked in the insides of his coat, with a nature as equally as striking as his red eyes.

02 was his name. Once again, a very intriguing man. He was nothing like Prime or 24, making you quite interested in him. You still remember the few times you met him, it was nothing like the poised elegance 24 carried. He was rough and more outwardly eccentric, yet it was equally as alluring. You wanted to know more. And learn more you shall.

Unfortunately, you did not see much of him in the main lab, as he preferred to stay in his own one far more. So you would need to make the trip there. In fact, you were so prepared that you had walked to the area of his lab numerous times and came back so you wouldn’t get lost this time. However, in all honesty, you had no idea what you were even going to say or do, but you just hoped the situation would flow as smoothly as it did with 24. 

As you got closer to the doors of 02’s lab, your pace slowed and your heartbeat quicked as you realized the door was slightly ajar. This was a good chance to simply… observe the segment. Even though you previously had confidence, the idea of knocking on 02’s door made you anxious still. Carefully, you tip-toed and peeked into the room, biting your lip in anticipation.

It was a very large space, really spacious actually, and yet so much of it was filled with many things. There were numerous desks and tables that had a variety of parts and stacks of papers, not to mention there weren’t just Ruin Machines and the sort either. You could see some dissembled robots that you swore had glowing eyes. Strange. But interesting. Not to mention the size of some of them - you really don’t remember Ruin Guards being so large four hundred years ago… could perhaps these be ones 02 created himself? You were fascinated. Of course, you were no stranger to Zandik’s fascination with Khaenri’ahn machines. You often accompanied him on his unauthorized expeditions to examine them further back in the Akademiya.

Speaking of, 02 himself was standing in front of them, the height and size difference being laughable. His coat had been thrown over a chair, and he was simply wearing a vest with a white shirt, his sleeves rolled up with his gloves still on. Very attractive, you had to admit, but that was beside the point. You could see he was mumbling to himself, impatiently tapping the table next to him that had various tools on it, when his expression abruptly changed. A smile appeared on his face as he began to laugh and then mumble under his breath more excitedly. Perhaps he had a breakthrough? You wished to know what went through his mind.

Eagerly, you leaned forward to try and hear more but simultaneously forgot the situation you were in right now - pretty much spying on him. Unfortunately, you did not account for the uncomfortably loud groaning that came from the door when you only slightly pushed on it.

Oops. Why did these things always happen to you? There was truly no backing out now, from the way 02’s laughter immediately stopped as his red eyes glanced behind him, an irritated frown in place of his previous smile.

“Who-” 02 turned around to face the intruder who would be so stupid as to interrupt him, but his expression changed once again when he realized this was no ordinary intruder, it was you. “It is you. You are here.” There was not a grin or a frown on the segment’s face, rather, he seemed surprised yet intrigued at the same time. You sweated as he began to walk towards you.

“Yes, yes, it is me, [Name]. I am here,” you smiled, as you were forced to step out from behind your protection of the lab’s door. “I wanted to… visit you! It’s been a while since I’ve seen you, so you know, just wanted to check up on you and all,” you said with a rather awkward chuckle. Why did you always seem to have a loss of words during the beginning while talking to these men? 02 continued to look at you unmovingly with those lovely eyes of his. You cleared your throat as you took a few steps further into the room.

“Anyway, I must say that I am quite captivated by this… research of yours. I have never seen such a variety of machines before,” you stated genuinely, another smile etching its way onto your lips. It was then you realized that 02 had gotten closer to you, practically standing side by side merely looking at you, as if silently beckoning you to continue. That stare of his… it was quite cute.

“That one for example,” you pointed to the one the segment was previously preoccupied with, “it’s far larger than any machine I remember from back then. Is it-”

“RG-271.” You blinked at 02’s interruption. “That machine’s name,” he clarified. “Experiment RG-271.”

“I-I see. Is there any particular reason that- oh!” 

“Come.” Once again, before you could finish, the segment grabbed your arm and began to pull you to where he once stood with glee that could not be mistaken. You tried to ignore the slight heat creeping up your neck.

You hadn’t really given the segments the time of day yet, still clinging to Prime Dottore and being nervous around the clones, so to have you here so closely, of your own volition too, was an unexpected yet extremely welcomed course of events for 02. Oh, he knew you would never disappoint him, and of course, the segment was going to reap the rewards of this situation. 

“As I was saying, did you make some of these machines yourself?” 02 presented you with a wide grin, and you could see his pointy teeth on full display.

“Indeed I have. Simply experimenting on the old ones gets boring at times, and I too wish to surpass this ancient technology.” Before you could respond, he suddenly began to dig in a rather overcrowded box of many parts, some of which you recognized and some you didn’t. The collection of Chaos Oculus and Cores brought back fond memories, but these ones seem a bit different from usual. Enhanced by the segment, perhaps?

Regardless, before long he had gathered numerous ones and you had quickly realized that he was really going to explain to you in-depth about every part of this machine. Of course, you had no protest to this. For one, you were interested, and 02 looked so happy to go on and on about his research. Did he have no one else to tell this to? Actually, you don’t know why you asked that, of course he didn’t. (Thankfully, he had a stool for you to sit on, for your poor legs wouldn’t be able to hold you for the length of time he would talk.)

However, his animatedness quickly came and went as he then clicked his tongue in annoyance. “Though, I had yet to make them work. Unfortunately, they cannot move around as authentic machines can,” 02 said in disappointment. You couldn’t help but chuckle.

“I would not worry too much. You are smart enough to figure it out in due time.” The praise naturally left your lips because, well, you wholeheartedly believed it. 02 seemed to enjoy your compliment. It was amusing how you could read his feelings so easily despite that mask of his. Although you wondered if he was like this right now solely because of you.

“I shall.” You gently smiled at him again as he began to tidy up the mess he just made (although the end result certainly wasn’t anything to applaud.) But 02 wasn’t going to let you go yet.

“Would you like to see one in action?”

“You mean, see a Ruin Guard… move? In here? But isn’t that dangerous?” You were having flashbacks to the time you had to fend off a few because Zandik had decided to be a bit too eager in his research. 02 looked to be unconcerned at your worry.

“Worry not. I have control over them.” He took pride in your glittering admiring eyes, pulling you off your seat and leading you over to the other side of his lab. 02 then began to inspect the line of Ruin Guards against the wall, before then snapping his fingers.

“RG-134. Perfect.” You watched as he then began to tinker with it, not really knowing what was going on, but content to watch. But there was not much to watch as he finished quickly, and suddenly the machine stirred to life, the familiar blinking of yellow light signaling its awakening. Instinctively, you took a few steps back, heart racing from the machine that now loomed over you, but 02 pulled you closer.

“Do not be afraid. It will hinder you. Is this not a great opportunity?” You swallowed nervously, but you trusted him anyway. You took some careful steps toward the Ruin Guard, and it paid you no mind as you began to feel the machinery on the pads of your fingers.

“Huh… it really is docile. How did-” Your words were mostly drowned out by the creaking of the Ruin Guard’s leg lowering so that its hand was leveled with your body. You looked at 02 for help, but he motioned for you to go on.

“You want me to get on it? It’s going to be too high up!”

“Do you think I will let it drop you?” 02 seemed amused at your predicament. You pouted - it did seem really cool to have a ride on a Ruin Guard’s hand, but you were still a bit scared, so you placed your hand out.

“Come with me, then.” The segment’s eyes widened, probably not expecting your request, but he agreed with uncharacteristic silence. Thankfully, the machine’s palm was big enough to fit both of you, but your shoulder still brushed with 02’s. And then with some more creaks, you two were suddenly lifted into the air. You couldn’t help but quickly grab his arm as you watched the floor get more and more distant, but 02 seemed as if this didn’t bother him at all.

“Relax. You of all people should know how to enjoy this.” His words weren’t exactly comforting but they still served to help calm yourself. He was right - once you got rid of your fear, it was… super cool.

“Yes, you’re right. Thank you for this,” you giggled, as the machine slowly stomped around, careful to avoid any obstacles. 02 ignored how captivating you looked right now and looked away from the sight.

“I could also show you my Ruin Drakes if-” Before he could finish, the segment felt something soft brush against his cheek. Your lips to be exact, and before he could say or do anything, it ended.

“That does sound lovely, but…” you tried to stifle a yawn, “I am rather tired. I think I need a nap…” That stare you had gotten used to was back on you again, but you ignored it in order to quell your embarrassment. (You did not go for his lips because you were a bit shy to do that so early on, but also because that silly mask of his covered nearly half of his mouth. Good thing you were sitting on the side where his cheek was exposed…)

“I see. Then I suppose I will be seeing more of you, then?” For now, he had to resist the urge to sink his teeth into you after that little stunt of yours. Only for now, however.

“I would like that.”

“Excellent.” Soon enough, you were back on the ground again, but you did not want to return to your room.

“02, can I sleep here?”

“Here?” He cocked his head to the side. “I will not stop you, however, I cannot promise you it will be quiet.” You laughed at his response. It was different from 24’s strict one.

“Not to worry. I believe I will fall asleep anyway,” you hummed as you made yourself cozy on a rather uncomfortable couch (that was already very out of place here). “Mhm… good night, 02.” You did not receive any response, but you were happy.

… But then you remembered something.

“Wait! Wait, I forgot the most important question of all!” 02 turned back with a questioning look.

“Yes?” You passionately placed your hand on your chest as you then spoke.

“You need to show me those flying pointy beaming things of yours. I have never seen a weapon quite like it.”

“...”

From the day he came into this world as 02, to the day you named him to live and die as Beta, he will love you.

[just-a-sleepy-idiot]

Roommate! Herbert West Imagine: Reader having that time of the month

Content/Warnings: Gender neutral Reader!, ties in with my previous fic of him, mild Swearing, Sexism from Dr. Hill

It‘s the 80‘s and even medicine is behind on actually understanding the reproductive health and needs of anyone they don’t consider the standard human being which directly translates into ‚white male‘. There is shame and secrecy on the topic, so you had every reason to believe that it would become immensely uncomfortable as soon as your new roommate saw you in that state. Thankfully, he was so preoccupied with his experiments at all times that you doubted he would notice if you came home one day wearing a Mohawk.

It wasn’t that you ever really saw Herbert outside of his selfmade lab in your basement. Besides his products in the bathroom, his neatly arranged self and the fact that he hasn’t starved yet you had no evidence of him ever actually using any other rooms in your shared flat. Sometimes you imagined him doing mundane tasks to fill in the blanks of never actually seeing him do any. Like ironing his many dress shirts and ties, cleaning his glasses, putting on socks. Now that you were thinking about it it may be more weird of you to be imagining that than the topic itself.

You usually hid your period products out of sight in the bath, hoping he wouldn’t find it so no awkwardness would ensue. It was simply how you were brought up, and having to pretend that this literal bodily function didn’t happen was unnerving. Especially since you realized that you had just gotten your period- and that you had no more products in the house. Fuck fuck fuck-

you just stuffed your underwear with some tissues for now, hoping to swipe some pads in the Hospital without anyone noticing. Surely you would make it till work.

Herbert already called out for you from outside, reminding you that you needed to go now if you wanted to be punctual. Before he didn’t bother waiting for you even though you were going the same way, outside of your Home one wouldn’t have assumed that you were roommates by the way he just minded his business. Lately however he started going to work with you, which rendered your watch practically unnecessary because he was always very much on time.

You came out of the bathroom and grabbed your bag, ready to go. You were very speedy today because you were trying to distract yourself from the cramps you were getting, you might need to get more than just pads from the Hospital once you were there.

What you didn’t expect was that once you arrived, your colleagues were all over you and you were thrown in to handle a full on emergency before you could even think of aiding yourself. You hurriedly waved to Herbert before you were involved in tending to multiple serious wounds of a car crash victim.

You initially planned to go around with him and look into the listing of freshly deceased patients together, as you were looking for a suitable person to test the Reagent on. And shortly after you were finally released from the patient your Roommate picked you up right after, urging you to go after your plan now so it was hard to call for a bathroom break, or rather a ‚I need to find a storage room with nobody in it and stuff my pockets with tampons‘ break. You were starting to get a headache.

Both of you were now hurriedly flipping through files, you had to be quick before someone got suspicious. Herbert had made himself known quickly with his sunshine attitude, especially since he was so keen to piss off your resident Narcissist Top Surgeon Dr Hill. It wouldn’t go unnoticed if anyone saw you two looking through confidential records.

You were surprised when Herbert stopped you by putting his hand on your arm, prompting you to pause and look up. „What?“ This was his idea in the first place, why was he stopping you now? „Y/n“ you tried to flip over to the next page, catching his eyes with slight irritation. „What, we‘re almost..“ „Y/n you’re bleeding.“ Oh.

You threw your head around to see the blood stain that formed on the back of your pants, and it was hard to tell for you if that made you go even paler than you already were today or blush with the vast embarrassment that this caused you.

This was even more embarrassing than if he had found a Tampon or something. Should you move? Quit your job? You seriously considered it while your eyes searched for a bathroom in sight, you needed to get away as quickly as possible before even more people saw it- „Um, I‘ll be back!“ you dropped the files on the counter and swiftly went for the bathroom before Herbert could say anything else.

You found the bathroom empty, thankfully, and hid in a stall to dispose of the tissues you bled through. Even if you had the time and secrecy to just go scrub the stain in the bathroom sink and wait for it to dry, blood was way harder to get off than the coffee you had repeatedly spilled over your shirt until you had approximately more of it soaking through your clothes than was left in the cup when you arrived at Dr. Hill‘s office. Which certainly is not based in a real example. At all.

You considered your options. Should you just go home and call in sick from there? No, it would be weird to not tell anyone in person that you were going home, people already saw you..

Someone cleared their throat and you froze- did someone see you come in??

„If you are.. composed right now you should open the door for a moment.“

Herbert?!? Why the heck did he follow you in? Gods if he wanted to discuss this right now- he was oblivious to personal details sometimes but he wasn’t stupid. And also a med student.

„Um, I think I need to go home early today. We can continue with the files tomorrow.“ You said, hoping he took it as a sign to not talk about the river styx situation in your pants right now.

„That’s not it, open the door and I‘ll go.“

You complied, slowly opening the stall. Herbert looked back to see if anybody was coming before handing you.. a bunch of stuff. „That should suffice, just put your pants in the plastic bag after.“ And with that he really did just.. leave, without further explanation. You looked after him and retreated back into the stall to find.. a blue pair of scrub pants and both pads and tampons stuffed into a plastic bag. He didn’t know what you preferred so he just got both.

He.. your tense expression softened, a surprised smile setting on your face. Of all people you didn’t expect Herbert to be doing this for you, and he didn’t even seem awkward or disturbed by it. Stern as always.

You changed into the new pants, took care of the rest and put the plastic bag with your stained pants in your locker to pick up after work.

Herbert had a way of flickering his gaze around in a sharp, acute way as he was always somewhat alert. Yet when you came back out and found him leaning against a wall with his arms crossed he looked at you, and softly lowered his gaze before looking back up to meet your eyes. Maybe you imagined it to look assuring, but it surely felt that way to you. „Thank you.“ He simply nodded, and you went back to look at files without him even mentioning it again.

Dr Hill likely assumed you two to be a couple and that brought you both peace and stress in a way, because now he wasn’t relentlessly flirting with you anymore and actually let you do your job. But if anything about how you did your job stood out to him he would find a reason to scold you about it. If he couldn’t have you he likely just put you and Herbert on the same list with people to put in this creepy cell with one way see through glass that he had bordering on his office if he gets the chance.

Now he was onto you as well when you returned to work, taking just a second too long to act the way you should when he came up to you in long, malignant slides promising trouble. He consciously ignored Herbert.

„Do you need someone to instruct you on your own job now? You are wasting the budget of this hospital by slacking off like that.“ He huffed, making you freeze by the sudden accusations he threw your way for the simple act of pausing for a moment. „And now you can’t even respond? Are you always this incompetent or just on your period?“ Some by standing staff quietly looked on as Dr Hill didn’t even bother lowering his voice, in fact he seemed to be pleased with this act of public humiliation. Your face turned red, what the hell was wrong with him?!?

„What an excellent example of the alarming parallels between toddlers and people of old age, Dr Hill. You really do act just like a squeamish kid rather than someone who should know better about Medicine by now.“ Herbert chimed in, approaching you two to stand beside you with his hands buried in the pockets of his coat.

„So brain death isn’t the only topic you are lacking in I see. Now, what body function can we attribute your incompetence to then if this is the logic we go by now?“ He took a step closer to him, and he really did not care for the height difference because if Dr Hill were to even lay a finger on him he would prove his intellectual inferiority in front of everyone looking. He was just staring him down as the older man was practically fuming.

„It will be a pleasure to fail you, both of you!!“ He yelled, throwing you a furious glance before turning around, „Stop wasting my time, I‘m having dinner with the Dean and I‘m sure we‘ll have lots to discuss.“ With that he left with this vague threat hanging in the air, leaving you two and the other staff who each now stopped staring after a few moments and returning to work.

You were quiet for a moment, both you and Herbert. Did he.. did he defend you there? Or was it just him trying to one up the man he so very openly despised? You looked at him now, trying to read in the ever lasting frown on his features why he did it. Why this was the second time he had came in to help you out of a highly uncomfortable situation.

He didn’t let anything on. Only later when you were both home you couldn’t bear to leave it unsaid anymore, despite the embarrassment that came from bringing up the topic. „So today um.. you really helped me. Twice.“ He shot you a glance from the kitchen, it was the first time you ever saw him use it. „Yes.“ He answered factually, somehow that made you smile a bit. You stared at the back of his head for a moment. „Thank you.“ He nodded without really turning around and let out a hum. „Why did you do it?“

That made him pause in his movements for a moment, he then turned down the stove. You saw his shoulder blades moving through the fabric of his dress shirt. He moved around some more before returning to the living room with two plates with some simple pasta.

He took a seat and handed you one of the plates, impaling some noodles with his fork.

„First, we are Reanimating the dead in your basement Y/n, I have seen worse than a little blood. Bodies are complex organic mechanisms, everything makes sense and comes together in perfect order. The only thing I defy about it is Death.“ He looked at you intensely, it seemed as if he were hesitating to say what he intended to next. Herbert scratched his neck and looked away for a moment.

„You did not leave when I was in withdrawal. This state isn’t any more pleasing to witness than it is to go through it. Well,“ he pressed his lips together. He was well versed to argue from a logical standpoint, but this now wasn’t a position he really found himself in often nor voluntarily. You understood it, though, and he found you smiling at him. „I see.. Thank you, again.“ He reciprocated your look and then turned his attention towards his food again.

He was glad that you knew what he meant. You often seemed to do so, even when he was rambling or pacing like a madman, and you understood him now too. It was.. nice.

[buckyarchives]

Metal Arms and Short Skirts | Bucky Barnes [2.]

summary: waltzing in as the new head of the Avenger's medical division, impressing everyone, and... scaring Bucky with your incredibly short skirts. while bucky's having a hard time looking at his arm as anything other than a deadly weapon, you're more than happy to help him.

words: 4.3K

warnings; creepy men (+bucky fending them off) slight body dysphoria on buckys end

author note : HI I KNOW THIS WAS SUPPOSED TO BE UP LIKE & DAYS AGO... aib came out and ive been hyperfixaed on that and my brother got frostbite so wump wump was at the hospital on chrimis. i have mixed feelings on this chapter, but i hope you enjoy. and im still taking request.

READ ON AO3 | masterlist

Bucky wasn't going to pretend to be completely oblivious and say he wasn't finding every and any excuse to visit you. Whether it be a tear in his muscle or the sound of the metal whizzing sounding off, something bucky would have ignored with absolutely no thought. Bucky maintained a comfortable distance between you two, physically and emotionally, staying at arm's length. But something about today seemed to be different. 

Bucky shifted nervously in his seat, he watched your stride around your lab. You finally got your own area after 2 weeks of staying at the compound. It almost put Tony's lab to shame, it was huge and decked out with technology far too advanced for bucky to even understand. 

Today, You wore a black bustier that seemed to shape your form, thick and sturdy paneling sewn into the shirt, if that is what you can even call it. The neck hung low, low enough to leave very little to the imagination. Bucky practically had to tear his eyes away from your neckline when he first walked into the lab.

Bucky's excuse today was a deep cut on the side of Bucky's flesh bicep. Coming back from a quick and easy mission, but Clint needed to watch his arrows since one slit past bucky’s arm on the way to the actual enemy behind him. Bucky had a sneaky guess it was on purpose. 

You gathered the plaster and made your way back to bucky, footsteps echoing as you walked. A sigh escaped your lips, but bucky only caught a small smile. “You know, bucky. You can't come in here every time you have a small cut.”

“Isn't that what you're being paid for?” bucky snarked back, watching your hands as they gently grabbed at his lower arm. Your touch was always so delicate, like you were going to break him rather than heal. 

“Ha, ha.” you mocked. “I could have been making some ground-breaking discovery or invention before you walked in.”

Bucky's eyebrow quirked up eagerly. “Were you?”

A closed-mouthed hum escaped your lips. Your all too perfect pedicured hand wrapped the white bandage around bucky's arm, he was just watching your face as you worked. Couldn’t– wouldn't tear his eyes away. 

“Not really, just researching some stuff about scarring and skin stuff,” you spoke, dumbing it down for bucky. 

During bucky's visit, he’d always ask about everything, trying to catch up with the technology of the 21st century, or maybe just to hear your voice. He didn't understand half the things you spoke about, though he never mentioned it, but you figured it out soon enough and started to simplify it the best you could.

“Scarring?”

“Helen has some idea about how to better rid of scars.” your hand smoothed against his bicep as you finished, and your touch sent a good burn through him. Giving him a warm smile like you always did when you finished.

Bucky's eyes glanced down to his left shoulder for a moment, the ugly scarring that single-handedly destroyed most of his bodily confidence. The permanent mark of what Hydra did to him as they chopped it off and made him part machine. Bucky scoffed to cover up the obvious self-depreciation in his voice, “need a test subject?”

You flinched at his words, surprised, being taken aback by his response. Only then when you looked him up and down, settling on his clothes shoulder, your face fell and a sympathetic look flashed. It was covered by his tanktop but you knew what was under there, you'd seen the photos, you'd seen him. 

You sat back down on your little rolly stool. “I'm surprised you’d suggest that, based on your history, I'd expect you to not be so keen on being poked and prodded.”

Memories flashed Hydra's methods at tearing his humanity, mind, and body apart, all those experiments. But they quickly subdued, how could bucky think of something so cruel when you stat right in front of him, which in bucky's opinion, is perfection. 

“I think I'd be okay with it if it was you.” bucky said quietly, honestly– a confession even. 

A fond smile rose to your face, one you quickly bit back. Narrow eyes met him when you tilted your head slightly, shying away. “Good to know you trust me.”

“Always.”

“But–” you sighed, “I'm going to have to decline, Bucky. For now, you'll have to live with what your shoulder looks like. Sorry.”

Bucky dramatically groaned, trying to mask the obvious pain and disappointment he actually felt. “You're killing me, doll.”

Your ears warmed at the nickname. Averting your eyes for a moment from shyness. You knew bucky despised the scarring that painted his left shoulder, the one that connected the man to metal. You could only lend him some comfort in the situation, no amount of medical technology right now could completely ease his worries.

“Bucky?”

His head perked up, a hum escaped his lips as he put all his attention on you.

“You wanna see something really cool?” you smirked.

Bucky noticed the slight smirk tugging at your lips, he could only react by biting back a smile of his own. “Sure, doll.”

You leaned down to the hem of your right pant leg, slowly hiking up the baggy jeans that hung low on your waist. Slowly revealing a large and messy scar on your kneecap, nothing as bad as bucky's many scars that littered his body. But something definitely bad happened for you to have that, even fully healed now.

“When I was a kid, I used to skate a lot.” you started, bucky's eyes bouched back up to your face. “I got on a gravel road and fell down and my knee landed right on a huge sharp rock and just logged itself right into my knee.”

You laughed looking back on the memory. “Hurt like hell for 14-year-old me and I had to get so many stitched, it was the worst.” a cheeky smile grew as you spoke through a laugh. “Especially for my dream of becoming a knee model.”

Bucky laughed with you as you dropped your pant leg, sitting back up to look at bucky. Bucky didn't say anything and hung his head low when a silence grew in the lab, only the sound of lab tech whizzing in the background. Bucky mostly just wanted to bask at this moment with you, letting himself enjoy the light-hearted nature of your conversations. The way you and he feel warm inside, lighter than ever.

You smacked your lips as you rose from your seat. Bucky's eyes begrudgingly followed you, “you have to learn to love every part of yourself, despite the bad memories. Because it makes you…”

Stopping in your place, turning to him as your eyes traveled up and down his body, the gesture weirdly didn’t make bucky cringe and crawl into himself the way most gazes did. 

“... you.” you smiled again and bucky felt dizzy. “And I think you're pretty cool.”

You turned away to continue whatever you were doing. Bucky muttered your statement under his breath, loud enough for him to hear it again but quiet enough so you wouldn't.

Bucky rose from his place on the workbench, after many visits he practically claimed this spot. As it sat right in the middle of your lab. Despite everything inside of him wanting to stay near you and soak up your presence. He headed for the door.

“Thanks, doc,” Bucky called out.

“Anytime, bucky. I'll be here when you come in with another excuse to see me,” you spoke coyly. Bucky's eyes widened and warmth crept up to his face. 

He sputters for words to save his pride, stumbling over his poor excuse of an explanation. “Maybe I just wanna see your cool outfits.” bucky's face scrunched up, cringing at his own pathetic words. He wondered what the 40s version of himself would say now, probably something sly and confident that’d knock you off your feet.

“Whatever you say, Mr. Barnes.”

“Bucky.” he corrected, again. But maybe it was just an excuse to linger longer at your door.

You smiled at him and repeated, “bucky.”

“You're going on a date with her.” 

Bucky's eyes widened, his head snapping towards Natasha. “I’m what?”

A frustrated groan leaves Natasha's lips as she shifts in her uncomfy office seat. Half of the Avengers team sat in an office going over a mission coming up, but - like most things - it turned into them talking about anything but that, and successfully annoying the hell out of Steve. 

“I set you up on a date with her.” Natasha spoke, referring to you. “I cannot keep watching you get beat up during missions just so you can see her, so you're going on a date.”

Bucky was dumbfounded, to say the least, lost for words as he stared at the woman in front of him. “Why would I go on a date with her?”

Over the past week or two, Bucky began to deny his fondness towards you when you interrupted a meeting to talk to Tony, or popped into the common rooms to talk about new tech, or how you practically strutted through the compound like you own the place. 

or when you slowly build up bucky’s confidence without either or you realizing it. 

Always in short skirts, or colorful and dramatic tops, and in heels or boots that echo loudly throughout the halls. Bucky denies the way his eyes drag along your figure, always lingering on your face longer than he needs to, the way if you look close enough, Bucky's eyes light up a little when you enter the room. Bucky denies it, but he can't fake it.

And Natasha clocked that quickly. 

“the way you look at her tells me you want to,” Natasha spoke coyly. She always read bucky better than anyone else in the room— similar background and all. a defeated groan comes from bucky in return, followed by a slightly pouted lip. Natasha gives him a friendly slap on the shoulder

A scoff was heard from the other side of the table. “Is the cyborg cable of feelings?” Tony snarked, his head down looking at a sheet of paper. Chewing slightly at a pen. 

“Ha. ha. Very funny.” Bucky mocked. “How do you even know she wants to go on a date with me? I can’t imagine she agreed to this?”

self-consciousness slowly crept up bucky's spine, he can’t face rejection if he denies, denies, and denies.

Natasha went to speak but Tony Stark does what he does best and interrupts her. With a hefty laugh coming up from his chest, he dropped the pen and papers down on the table. Leaning forward to face bucky. “Are you kidding me? You’re like a wet dream to her, always injured and part robot. Hits all of her boxes''

“I'm surprised she hasn’t mounted yo-”

“Okay Tony, I think that's enough talking.” Steve interrupted before he could finish his sentence. Tony’s comment earned a choked laugh from both Natasha and Sam.

“Anyways.” Natasha continued. “I know because she already agreed to it. Everything is already set up.”

Bucky rolls his eyes, hoping his hair covers his growing red ears. Steve spoke up, “Just give it a chance buck. You might enjoy it.” oh steve, hopeful as ever.

“I’m sure you'll enjoy it, it’s very much your style,” Natasha spoke, her infamous smirk growing on her face. 

“That scares me.” 

*****

Turns out Natasha was right, it is very much Bucky's style. Natasha had planned (with the help of Steve, because of-fucking-course) a date at a fancy, old-style diner, and every Saturday night they clear the floor and play some old music for some swing dancing. Just bucky’s style, he knows this was Steve’s idea. more than sure after years of watching plenty of girls swoon over Bucky with just one twirl and one short dance, Steve would think this is right up his alley. And it was.

Now Bucky stands outside a busy and bustling diner, upbeat 40s music echoing to the streets. Flowers in hand and a nice black collared shirt under a vintage jacket (it was from the museum and Steve name-dropped at least 12 times to get it back), waiting patiently for you to arrive. Bucky fiddled with his hands a little, his eyes kept darting to his watch— is he too early? When are you arriving? Bucky’s now convinced you wouldn’t show up. Because who would honestly want to go on a date with h–

“James!” a cheery voice broke through his very self-deprecating thoughts. Bucky turned around and swore his heart stopped beating, just for it to speed up even faster when his sights landed on you.

You wore the same boots that caught Wanda's eyes in the common room that quiet day. His eyes followed up your legs, past your thighs as he saw the dress you wore. It was stripped and sparkly, bucky would see the shine from down the street. It felt like you wore the entire rainbow and more as every stripe was painted differently. It was sleeveless and high-necked. And of course, very short.

An excited smile greeted him as you waved your hand. Your pace sped up as Bucky met you, he wondered how you didn't trip in those high heels constantly.

 “Hi,” Bucky said, wanting to hit himself for how awkward he sounded. 

“Sorry for being late, I didn't mean to make you wait.” you stood before him, and he noticed your makeup. You painted your lips with a darker shade than usual and you had little shiny gems glued around your eyes. 

“Don’t worry about it, I just got here too,” Bucky spoke softly, bringing the flowers up to you. “For you.”

Your eyes instantly lit up at the sight, taking the bouquet from him “thank you! you didn't need to get these for me, James.”

 Bucky's heart fluttered slightly at the name, it was rare for people to use his first name nowadays. You brought the flowers to your nose, smelling them with a blissful look on your face. Laughing to yourself.

“What's so funny?” the super-soldier asked.

“Oh no, it’s nothing.” you looked back down at the flower. “I don’t think anyone has ever gotten me flowers before.”

Bucky’s eyebrows furrowed, “really?”

“Mhmm.” you rocked back and forth on your heels, “thank you for being the first.”

You smiled warmly up at Bucky as you did so often, but the aura of everything made it so much more this time.

“Let's head in?” Bucky cocked his head towards the diner. 

Nodding, “yes, please.” you threaded along, catching Bucky off guard when you swiftly grabbed ahold of his hand. Your fingers wrapped around his flesh hand, the warmth made Bucky feel funny in his stomach. Yeah, Bucky might have a crush on you.

You lead him into the diner, confident in your walk like usual. Your eyes spotted an empty seat and the both of you settled yourselves in a booth. You make quick eye contact and Bucky's mouth gaped like he's going to say something but is stopped when the waiter comes up. The waiter looks like she blends in with the scenery, with pinned-up hair and a bright red lip. She asks for your order and you both get water, and a milkshake. 

“I can imagine why Natasha picked this place out of everything,” you say, eyes off into the distance, Bucky follows your gaze and sees the dance floor of people together with large smiles. “Though, I don't know how to dance.”

Bucky's lip quirks up slightly, “I can teach you.”

“Perfect, let’s go then.” your smile widely, and your already getting up, standing next to bucky's seat and holding a hand out. Bucky’s surprised by your sudden willingness but despite the nervousness in his stomach - he takes your hand. 

Bucky may have been nervous standing outside the diner. May have been nervous as he greeted and met you outside. May have been nervous as you led him inside and watched you from across the table. But once he stepped out onto the swing floor, the soft sound of 40s music playing in the background. The sweet-talking James Buchanan – that seemed to flirt with every girl that met him – came back from the dead, and he had his arm around your waist in no time.

You noticed the sudden confidence and glint in his eyes suddenly, reaching up to grab his neck. Bucky held you at your waist, then he noticed the gold chain hung around your hips. His fingers grazed over them for a moment before they rested at the smallest part of your waist.

Your wide eyes met his and bucky swore for a moment, he couldn't breathe. “How was the mission?”

A groan escaped Bucky's mouth, playfully he rolled his eyes. Trying to sound annoyed, but his smile said otherwise. “Oh god, I don't wanna talk about work.”

Bucky’s hands stayed planted on your waist. You smiled as you continued to sway together along to the soft jazz in the background. You tugged nervously at your lip, “you know, I was getting worried when I heard you guys weren’t getting back on time.”

“You worry about me?” Bucky was stunned, an unfamiliar warmth shot through him as you averted your gaze. He took one hand to pull at your chin, so you were looking at him. Your mouth gaped open for a moment and your brain studdered before you just shrugged in response, a slight nod.

The familiar sound of the music speeding up, the upbeat sound of Harry James filled Bucky’s ears and for a moment Bucky was in the 40s again with a girl in his arms ready to be shipped out to war. A sentimental smile grew on his face.

“You ready to learn how to dance.” Bucky beamed down at you and before you could even respond, Bucky pushed your body away from him abruptly. Just to grab your hand before you could fall, twirling you around and back close to his chest. 

It all happened so fast and you yelped once your back hit his chest. His arm wrapped across your body and held your hand. You breathed and smiled widely. “I might step on your toes.

“I can handle it, doll.”

******

A few songs later and a couple of toes crushed, followed by a slew of apologies from you. You and Bucky ended up breathing heavily and slightly sweaty from dancing. Bucky swung you around like you weighed nothing - which to him - you probably did. Lots of music ranging from the 40s to 60s played throughout the diner, to which Bucky snarks at the fact he didn’t recognize the songs, always followed by light laughter.

The dancing came to a slow, but you two remained on the floor still. It was getting late and you hadn’t even eaten yet and most couples and groups of friends had gone back to their seats. You swayed comfortably in Bucky's arms still, your head laid on his chest listening to the soft beat of his heartbeat. 

Bucky Barnes is a more than qualified trained assassin with heightened senses. He's very aware of his surroundings at all times, so when he notices the man peering at your thighs and ass, his eyes narrow toward the man. A glimpse of the winter soldier showed, but the creep didn't seem to pay any attention to Bucky's gaze.

Every so politely, Bucky attempted to tug at your dress without it seeming like he was trying to grope you. Also, swiftly and smoothly twirling you around so the man's gaze would be fixed on bucky's broad shoulders. Effectively protecting you from perverted stares as his body towards over you.

You noticed the way Bucky's body stiffened when he spun you, looking up at him once again. “You okay?”

Bucky nodded and gave you a reassuring squeeze around your waist. “Let’s head back? I'm hungry.”

You agreed quickly and grabbed Bucky's hand, pulling him off the dance floor and guiding him back to the table where your two drinks sat warm now. You slid into the booth with a large exhale, sitting across from Bucky. The waiter decked out in 40s apparel and took your orders, your food coming in no time. It was a poor excuse for dinner per se, only ordering fries and cheese curds to simply snack on. 

“You make a good dance partner.” Bucky mutters, mouth muffled with fries. 

“Chew.” 

Buckys recoils in embarrassment and covers his mouth, face tinted red from dancing. He swallows and lowers his hand. “sorry.”

“Thank you.” you sigh, pushing your food away from you. “You did most of the work, but I'd like to keep practicing.”

Bucky stopped, and looked at you as you stared intently into him. Bucky flustered mix. 

“Are you gonna keep blushing or accept my offer on a second date.” you shoot back and Bucky feels the air leave his lungs. His ears are definitely burning red.

“I'm not bushing? What are you talking about? This is me worn out from all the dancing.`` Bucky plays dumb, throwing a fry into the basket between the two of you. Slowly pulling out his billfold from his jeans.

Your eyes roll dramatically, as a scoff escapes your lips. “Yeah, okay. Super soldier.” 

Bucky narrows his eye’s toward you, a grin plastered on his face. “I'd love to go on a second date.”

You bite back a grin. “Ready?” you asked, bucky puts down the money to pay and nodded. Bucky gives you a boyish smile that you'd only recognized from old war photos. It warms you to the core, leaving you flustered. He grabs at your hand as you let him drag you out of the diner, a secure arm around your waist.

The light breeze of new york hit both of you, your hands instantly going up to your arms to warm yourself. Bucky notices all too quickly and instantly wraps his jacket around you. 

“Oh, thank you. Are you cold?” you ask, seemingly genuinely worried.

“Doll.” he stares down at you, and bucky speaks like the answer is obvious, which– it kinda is. “I hiked through Siberia in less.” 

“Whatever.” you scoff and roll your eyes, tugging the jacket closer around your body. the corners of your mouth slowly creeping up.

The faint scent of bucky comes off of it, sandalwood and pine mostly. You're used to the smell when he's not coming into your lab sweaty or bloody from missions and workouts. A comfortable silence falls between the two of you, filtered out by the busy city around you.

“So… I’ll see you tomorrow?” you speak awkwardly, unsure of where to go from here.

“Yep, tomorrow.” Bucky strings on the word, are also awkward. 

You could cut the tension with a knife.

“Or…” your voice raises a few octaves as you turn on your heels to face him, barely a foot between the two of you.  

Bucky's eyebrow quirks up, “Or?” 

“Or you could come back to my very, very nice and cozy apartment that isn't full of agents and superhumans.”

You flashed your best and greatest grin toward Bucky, and the way you were looking at him made Bucky want to crumble beneath his knees. You shouldn't have this effect on him, his heart tugged towards you in a weird, mysterious way that Bucky wasn't familiar with yet. He wasn't going to lie and say it didn’t stress him out a tiny bit.

Bucky let out a heavy, pained exhale and stepped a little closer to you. “Not tonight, doll. sorry.”

“It's okay.” your face dropped slightly, but then you looked up at him and a flash of something came across your feature and soon a smirk was replaced. “Then let me have this.”

“What–?”

Bucky was cut off by your warm hands cupping his face and lips as he received the most gentle kiss he's ever had the pleasure of experiencing. Initial shock ran through his body at the suddenness, and just as he accepted the feeling and went to melt into the kiss— you pulled away. Bucky felt so cold without you against him, he hated feeling cold.

“Wait, no.” he eagerly grabbed your face to pull you back in. Bucky didn't care if he sounded needy, because he did need this. noticing a glimpse of your more than satisfied grin before he shut his eyes and let himself feel your touch.

It was like you were meant for bucky, the perfect puzzle piece as your lips molded against each other. Slow and passionate, his hand ghosted above your waist before he pulled you full against his body. If it wasn't for your wedged heels, Bucky wasn't sure if you'd even reach his lips with the way you stood on your toes. 

Pulling away, Bucky felt dizzy, like he was drunk off of you. He swears he saw stars in your eyes, the street lights reflecting off your irises. Soft laughter came from you, you bowed your head as bucky stared at you. Practically mesmerized. 

To you, Bucky looked like he was in some sort of shock. Which wouldn’t be too far from the truth, which scared you slightly.

“Everything okay? Did I do something wrong?” you asked innocently, a pang of worry laced your tone.

Bucky frantically shook his head, “no, no– god no. just not used to that.”

“That?” 

“I mean.” Bucky thought for a moment, collecting his mind. “Being kissed. I've always been the one to initiate.”

You smiled sweetly, seeing hints of a flustered, young boyish version of Bucky. One that he, and everyone else swore was long gone. You had always thought otherwise, and tonight proves you right.

“I hope it wasn’t too jarring for you.” you nervously chuckled. 

“It was perfect.”

_

tag list;@matchat3a @sebsgirl71479 @heavenswrld @ivywasmaroon

[lovemyavatar]

Temptation

| Neteyam x F!Avatar!Reader |

Summary: new arrivals bring new temptations, and frustrations (see full series summary at the end of Star Girl chapter 9)

Warnings: mild angst and broody Neteyam

dialogue in Italics is Na'vi translated to English

chapter two

Chapter One

A tentative smile pulls at your lips as your head swivels from side to side, eyes dancing over the enormity of Home Tree.

You're utterly awe-struck, having never seen anything remotely this big in your life. Your gaze is greedy as it flickers over every bush, flower, blade of grass. It's all foreign to you, each sight an entirely new marvel to your inexperienced eyes.

Excitement tightens your chest, a tinge of nervousness curling in your stomach. You walk in line with a small group, led by none other than the Omatikayan Olo'eyktan, Jake Sully. You're a bit embarrassed to admit that you'd never heard of the guy until a few days ago. Apparently he’s somewhat of a legend.

It just wasn't on your radar, learning about the nearby clans. Truthfully, you always had better things to do than sit around and read about people you'd never meet. That's how you felt, anyway, before this opportunity appeared at your doorstep.

When Jake showed up, asking for volunteers to aid in the upcoming confrontation with hostile humans, you didn't hesitate to raise a hand. Though you've never allowed yourself to indulge in dreams too unrealistic, a piece of your soul has always found the confines of the lab complex stifling.

The last twenty years of your life have been spent within bleak, grey walls, surrounded by a conglomeration of random people trapped on the moon after Pandora's first war with humans. It's not that you resent your upbringing, since you don't know anything different, but lately you’ve yearned for something more.

As much as you're hardwired to follow orders, the whisper of restlessness recently began keeping you awake at night. It constantly pokes at the back of your mind, thoughts wandering to the wonders that lie just outside the lab property.

And now...you're seeing it with your own eyes.

Your Avatar—the body you inhabit now—has only been ready for five years. Since then, you've spent nearly every waking moment inside your link unit. At this point, you feel closer to the true version of yourself when you're like this, rather than in your human form.

Some of your peers spent their formative years studying the vast lands and ecosystems of Pandora. Others researched the people who inhabit it. But you, you've been focused on the more physical aspects of living on the moon.

The scientists like testing their creations, gathering endless information on agility, balance, strength, anything to make sure the Avatar's they've slaved over are the best they can be. That's where you come in. You've had little else to do for the majority of your life than keep your body is top physical shape.

Your days have been spent mastering the obstacle courses they provide, all while being monitored for a swath of factors. You found it enjoyable, at first, but the tasks quickly got old as you excelled at each new challenge. You've been craving something more, a new endeavor that will actually stretch your limits.

“It’s gonna be hard to get used to this.” Another lab-rat—as you and all the other orphans who grew up in the complex are lovingly referred to—whispers from behind.

You spare a quick glance over your shoulder, eyes catching on the way he picks at the ties of his loincloth. Fingers move to cover your mouth, stifling a laugh as you approach the main gathering area of Home Tree.

All humor is gone, a rough wave of anxiety sending a shiver down your spine when a sea of eyes dissect every inch of your skin. It seems that the entire clan is present, hundreds of Na'vi circling the large open area. They've left a tiny space for Jake, which he guides your small group through.

You force down a thick swallow, shoulders shifting to avoid running into any of them. They're so close, it's like they don't have a care in the world about personal space. Jake doesn't stop until he reaches a large, flat rock, which he easily steps onto.

He turns to face his people, looking every bit the larger than life Toruk Makto you've recently heard about. The few of you settle into stillness at his side, fidgeting with uncertainty. At once, he's speaking quickly, a jumbled mix of sounds you couldn't even begin to understand.

He gestures toward your small group, causing shocked murmurs to erupt within the crowd. Your expression tightens with unease, weight shifting between your feet while Jake works to calm them. As he continues speaking a language none of you understand, your eyes wander over the sea of faces staring back at you.

There seems to be a clear differentiation between the clan and what you can only assume is Jake's family. They stand in the middle of the circle only a few feet away. You vaguely recognize most of them from a picture Norm showed you only days ago.

There's a woman, flanked by two girls. One looks close to your age, while the other can't be more than nine or ten years old. Her arm is draped over the younger Na'vi's shoulders, holding her firmly against her hip.

Beside them, a pair of Na'vi—also appearing around twenty or so—are huddled closely together. They're distracted, in their own world as the boy murmurs something into the girl's ear, her quiet giggle echoing through the circle before she slaps his chest playfully.

Breath lodges in your throat when your eyes land on the final member of the Sully family, only to see that his gaze is already locked on you.

Instantly, his eyes shift to the dirt, chin dipping to avoid your attention. Just that one brief moment, a single second of his eyes on you, is enough to make your heart skip a beat.

You can't help but study him, gaze sweeping down his toned form. Warmth coils in your lower belly, eyes catching on each dip of hardened muscle. A tremor rolls down your spine when his eyes catch yours again, harshly flicking up from their downturned position.

Neteyam is seething, jaw clenched tightly as he listens to his father address the clan. Frustration tightens his chest, not at the new arrivals necessarily, but what it means for him.

Over the last several weeks, he's adjusted to the presence of one Avatar in the village. One he can deal with. He's gotten used to Lo'ak's mate. Warmed up to her, even.

It took many months, and a near-death experience for his baby sister Tuk, for his open distaste to morph into reluctant friendship. Now, he's readily accepted her into the family after the ceremony confirming her status as Omatikaya.

But a whole group of them? He's never questioned his father before, but there's just no way this plan is going to work. It's too risky, and time consuming, and he doesn't think they're that desperate yet. Clearly, though, his wishes hold no weight around here. A fact that has his fists tightening in agitation.

For some unknown reason, his eyes keep flicking back to one Avatar in particular. He can't help it, as hard as he tries to look elsewhere, his gaze is locked on the girl. There's something about her, something in the way she stares right back, undeterred by his hard glare, that makes his heart race.

He's jerked back to reality at the sound of Jake addressing Lo'ak's mate.

“You wanna help them get settled in?” He speaks in English for the first time, ensuring the new arrivals can understand.

She nods eagerly , practically skipping toward them after landing a soft kiss on Lo'ak's cheek and detaching herself from him. They quickly follow her up the staircase inside the massive trunk of Home Tree.

Neteyam watches the entire time, gaze lingering on your back until you disappear within the structure.

“So, you’re the one Norm hasn’t shut up about?” One of the girls wastes no time in asking what they're all dying to know.

Lo'ak's mate instantly blushes, glancing away from the few curious stares. It's true that their boss has spent almost all of his free time raving about the girl who'd been chosen by Ewya, but it's clear she's embarrassed by the attention. She turns her back to all of you without responding, continuing her path to the upper levels of the tree.

Your elbow jams into the girl's side, eyes widening in warning when she winces and casts you a glare.

“So, this is where you'll sleep.” Lo'ak's mate stops suddenly, facing you again as she gestures toward the woven hammocks that swing idly between thick branches.

Your brows raise in intrigue, surprised by the unusual arrangement. A few displeased murmurs erupt behind you.

“It can be a little tricky to get into the first—oh, okay.” Her gentle assurance is cut short when you leap from the branch, easily landing in a crouched position inside the structure.

It sways beneath you, but you're quick latch onto the edges, stabilizing yourself in seconds. You settle into a seated position, grinning triumphantly up at the rest of the group. Your fellow Avatars simply roll their eyes, used to your antics, but your guide can't help the way her eyes widen in shock.

“Wow, I'm impressed. The first time I did that I nearly killed myself.” She laughs lightly, watching as you make yourself comfortable.

“You're mated to the Olo'eyktan's son, right?” Another girl asks, bouncing on her toes with excitement.

She's one of the few who's dedicated most of her life to studying The People of Pandora. Her awe-struck expression is to be expected, the Sully family is the closest thing to celebrity on the moon. Even so, it irritates you.

You're not here to make friends, or grill people about their relationships. You're here to work hard, and hopefully avoid becoming a liability in the coming conflict.

Sharp teeth bite into your tongue, forcing yourself to remain silent as she fawns over the poor girl. To your surprise, she beams at the question, a prideful grin splitting her face. She nods in confirmation, and the girl practically squeals on the spot.

“How the hell did that happen?” The one man in your midst speaks up, his harsh tone making her curl inward slightly.

“It's a...long story.” She chuckles, head shaking as if its too much to get into now.

Truthfully, you know nothing about the clan or their customs. You've heard of this girl in passing, mostly from Norm, and have caught bits of conversations regarding her. From the little information you've gathered, it seems that they were less than welcoming to outsiders until recently.

As the group falls into easy conversation, asking Lo'ak's mate endless questions, your eyes trail over your new home for the foreseeable future. Or, your Avatar's home, that is. As your gaze dances along the vibrant greens and browns of Home Tree, you find yourself imagining a life here.

A life of freedom and exploration, a life where you can be more than a vessel for experimentation.

The first week goes by without consequence, aside from Neteyam's quickly mounting irritation.

There’s nothing wrong, exactly, and that’s the problem. He's bored to tears. There are countless places he’d rather be than training a group of Avatars. He wants a front row seat for the action and planning. He wants to be involved in things that actually matter.

He’s tried protesting, tried insisting that his skills would be better spent elsewhere. But his father will hear none of it. No matter how good the argument, there’s no changing Jake Sully’s mind once it’s made up.

The only thing keeping his days interesting is you.

He’s burdened with your presence, finding you excruciatingly charming and vexing all at once. You're always nearby, challenging him, talking to him when he's trying to do the bare minimum.

He doesn’t understand why you can’t just fall in line with the others. Why you must be so outspoken, so flashy in the way you easily master the skills he’s teaching you.

He can’t explain it. Can’t put words to the heat that constricts his chest every time you successfully learn a new skill. It makes something dark swell in his belly, the sight of you so casually falling into place with seasoned warriors both alarming and alluring.

Since childhood, he’s been leaps and bounds above his peers. It’s all he’s ever known, being hailed as the most skilled young man within the clan. He’s accustomed to being the best, to the wide birth between himself and anyone who dared challenge him.

It bothers to him to no end when you don’t crumble under his harsh instruction. When you match his irritability with attitude of your own. He doesn't know how to respond to such unabashed disrespect, used to the way the clan treats him with grace at all times.

He stalks through the trees, leading your group through dense flora. His pace is rushed, paying no mind to whether or not everyone is able to keep up. The more of you get lost, the better, as far as he’s concerned. That just means there will be less of you to annoy him.

His shoulders tense, ears twitching at the sound of quickly approaching footsteps.

“So, you’re going to be the next Olo’eyktan, huh? That must be really hard. I mean, I can���t imagine the—” Your voice is light, friendly as you settle into the space at his side.

“What are you doing right now?” His eyes cut to you, narrowed in warning. His tail swishes in irritation, hard gaze flicking over your form quickly.

“Starting a conversation?” You blink up at him innocently, watching as his nostrils flare, jaw clenching impossibly tighter.

“Don't.” The single word is a rough order before he lengthens his strides, easily putting several feet between you.

You can't help the giggle that bubbles in your chest, though your grin slips when you're faced with his retreating back.

“Oh, you're serious?” His muscles coil at the sound of your voice, the only visible reaction he gives you.

A soft breath falls from your lips, eyes rolling toward the sky as you trail after him. The others are so far behind you can't see them anymore, but he doesn't seem concerned, so you press on.

This is how it's been for the last several days. You, reaching out, trying to form a friendship with the man who's been tasked with training you. And him, doing everything he can to keep you at arms length.

Each harsh word or heated glare only ignites the flame of determination in your chest, pushing you to find the thing that will finally shatter his tough exterior. Because, despite the cold demeanor he tries so hard to maintain, you see through the cracks.

You catch the way his eyes linger on you. Feel when his touch softens just a fraction as he adjusts your form. You can't help but notice the flicker of his heated gaze when he tears it away, thinking he's sly as he trails your every move from across the clearing during meals.

There's no denying the warmth that settles over you at the mere thought of him. The moment you saw him, it was clear that you want him. You wouldn't be shy about it, save for the little problem of his less than approachable personality. Now that you've spent several days with him, you want more.

You want to test him, to prod at his carefully constructed perfection until the real Neteyam is laid bare before you.

“You know, if you don't want to be here, I'm sure we could convince your dad to choose someone else.” The offer is casual as you leap over a few overturned logs, quickly closing in on his back.

“What?” He stops abruptly, whipping around to face you, brow furrowed with displeasure.

You lurch back, nearly ramming into his tense frame. Your hands raise in surrender, a light chuckle rumbling your chest.

“I’ve heard your clan has many great warriors. I'm sure one of them would be happy to help us.” You shrug, arms crossing lazily.

Neteyam's stomach tightens with anger, narrowed eyes falling to your chest. For some reason, the fact that you aren't the least bit winded by this journey is immensely irritating. His lips purse, searing gaze burning a path right between your legs.

He's fuming at the mere insinuation that someone else would do this better, would be a more apt teacher. If there's one thing about Neteyam that never wavers, it's his confidence in his own abilities. The challenge ignites his competitive streak, makes walking away now impossible.

“Just try to keep up.”

With that, he's stomping his way through the forest again, too riled up to care about how noisy he's being. Your lips twist into a satisfied smirk as you instantly fall in line at his side, steps a bit lighter due to your small victory.

You’ve managed to claw your way under his skin.

Every day, his mind races, trying to come up with ways to regain the upper hand. No matter the topic of the training sessions, you’re always right at his side, mastering the skill with ease. It evokes an unfamiliar sensation, makes him feel both impressed and agitated that, if things stay like this, there may one day be someone else as skilled as him.

He’s tried keeping his distance. Snapping at you, ignoring your friendly advances, avoiding you at all cost when training is over. He was doing well, too, until one particular night sealed his fate.

Neteyam tosses from side to side, a frustrated huff falling from his lips as sleep evades him. He flips onto his back, palms covering his ears, eyes screwing shut as he desperately tries drowning out the noises plaguing him.

Finally, something within him snaps, an he can't take it for a second longer. He turns over roughly, propping himself up onto one elbow so he can glare darkly at the bed beside his.

“Will you two shut the hell up already?” He hisses into the dimly lit tent, adjusted eyes easily catching the way Lo'ak's head pokes up from behind his mate's shoulder.

His brother has the nerve to look offended, lips pulling into a frown despite the fact that his lovesick mumbling has been burning Neteyam's eardrums for what must be hours now.

“Bro, chill out.” He whispers, pulling his mate closer when she buries her head into his chest in embarrassment. She didn't think they were being that loud.

Neteyam growls, the sound rumbling deep within his chest as he runs a tired hand over his face. “I swear to Eywa if I hear one more—”

“Neteyam!” Neytiri suddenly hisses his name harshly, voice rough with sleep as she sits up in her own bed a few feet away. “Lower your voice before you wake the whole family.”

His eyes pop wide with shock, mouth falling open in exasperation. “Mother! I am not the one—”

She clicks her tongue harshly, silencing him instantly. His teeth grind, gaze flicking back to Lo'ak just in time to catch his triumphant smirk before he settles into his mate's embrace again. Neteyam growls angrily, ripping his blankets off before storming from the tent.

That's what brought him here, put him in the position he finds himself now. He's sitting at the tree line, throwing pebbles into the dense cover of foliage, ears twitching each time they clink against the dirt.

He hasn't gotten a good nights sleep in weeks. Not with the new addition in their small home. There's nothing he can do but wait until his brother's marital tent is completed. Then, he'll find solace in the sweet silence remaining in the couple's absence.

He's happy for his brother, really, he is. But he's losing it a bit, not being able to drown out their loved-up murmuring that goes on long into eclipse. Each night, he prays to Ewya that they'll run out of things to talk about, but they never do.

He's pulled from his thoughts at the sound of approaching footsteps. His tail flicks to attention at his back, head swiveling to see who could possibly be awake at this hour. When his eyes find you, his ears flatten against his head, shoulders dropping in defeat.

“Oh, sorry. I didn’t think anyone would be out here.” You sound a bit breathless as you slow to a stop at his side.

It makes him wonder what you've been doing. Where you're coming from. His gaze roams your body freely, looking for any clues as to why you're wandering through the village alone, at night. Something prickles in his chest, an unwelcome curiosity that he quickly disregards.

“Shouldn’t you be in your pod or whatever?” He rasps, irritated by the mere sight of you.

A chuckle bubbles in your chest at his choice of words. “You make me sound like some kind of insect.”

“A what?” He doesn't mean to engage, but the inquiry slips out before his exhausted brain can catch up.

“An insect? You know, like a…bug?” Your hands wave animatedly, trying to think of a way to explain the Earthly creatures. If only you knew the Na'vi equivalent.

One of his brows raises in question, the unguarded expression on his face bringing a new warmth to your chest. You've never seen him like this. It's never just been the two of you. The knowledge that the entire clan is fast asleep, far from interrupting, ignites a streak of mischievousness within you.

Smoothly, you plop down beside him, lips twitching at the way he recoils. He leans several inches away, ears lifting in surprise. His tail accidentally brushes against your back, making a shiver roll down your spine. He hastily grabs it, twisting it in his lap to keep it from thumping against the earth.

“They’re these tiny little things that are really annoying.” You settle on saying the first thing that comes to mind, truly having no idea how to explain the concept of an insect to someone who's never seen one.

His thigh keeps caressing yours, and its driving him insane. It makes his stomach flip, heart thrumming wildly between his ribs. He hates it. Hates how his body responds to you despite the fact that he doesn't like you.

“You weren't too far off, then.” He hums thoughtfully, scooting as far away as the tight space with allow.

A laugh twinkles from your lips, the sound making his skin prickle with heat. Fuck, he growls internally, what's wrong with me?

“Are you always so pleasant to guests?” Your eyes trail over his rigid spine and bunched shoulders, wondering what could possibly have him so worked up.

“Only when they aren’t welcome.” He forces an edge to his words, deepens his voice in a way he hopes will deter you.

“You know, I think I’ve figured you out.” Your lips pull into a small smile when his eyes slice to yours, narrowing in warning.

“Are you finished bothering me?” His jaw clenches, hands tightening into fists against his lap.

Something is building deep within his chest, something unfamiliar and stifling. The longer you're near him, the closer he feels to snapping, to spouting words he knows he'll come to regret.

“You care way too much what others think.” The words are a soft whisper as, for some reason, you feel the need to deliver the observation gently.

He rears up as if you've struck him, spine straightening at the audacity you have to be right.

“You don’t know anything about me.” He seethes, ready to make a hasty exit when your next words stop him cold.

“You’re really tense, you know that?”

It's not so much the words, but their insinuation that makes his heart skip a beat. When spoken in that low tone of yours, while your heavy-lidded eyes bore into his, there's really no other way for him to take it. Despite his best efforts, he feels his loincloth tighten against his skin at the mere whisper of releasing that tension with you.

Instantly, irritation tightens his chest, and he chastises himself for fantasizing about such things. At the very least, you're his student. It would be wrong enough if that were the only obstacle. But you're also an outsider—an Avatar—and a guest of the clan. Plus, as he pointedly reminds himself, he doesn't like you.

Your hands raise defensively as you watch his eyes glaze over, expression hardening with a swath of emotion all at once.

“I’m not suggesting anything.” His glare cuts to you, though it quickly falls to your mouth as you speak up again. “I’m just saying, you need to find an outlet before you pull a muscle or something.”

“I don’t need help. Especially not from you.” Despite the harsh words, he finds himself frozen within your heated standoff.

He can't move away, can't peel his gaze from your lips. His stomach turns, heat washes over the skin of his face and neck. He blinks rapidly, forcing his eyes up toward yours. He instantly realizes his mistake, but it’s too late. He’s captivated by you, held hostage by the heat within glittering yellow.

He doesn't notice the way his body sways closer to yours, doesn’t register when you mirror his action.

“Wasn’t offering it.” The words are a breathless whisper, warm air fanning his skin as the space between you shrinks with each passing second.

Your heart flutters, color blanketing your cheeks at his close proximity. It's undeniable that his rough edges only spur you on, encouraging the exploration of whatever this is between you. You instinctively move to touch him, fingertips trailing down the skin of his arm.

In an instant, he jerks away from you, dazed expression long gone. His practiced mask of indifference is firmly back in place within seconds as he puts as much space between you as possible. His chest heaves, breath ragged as he considers what he was about to do.

For the first time, a tiny twinge of defeat cinches your heart. His open rejection does sting, but you're determined to press on, to find the real Neteyam hidden beneath all the insults and quips.

“Every man has a breaking point, Neteyam.” You murmur, quickly stretching to your full height. “See you bright and early.”

You leave him with a knowing glance at the side of his head, as he refuses to look at you. He's reeling, the lapse in judgement unlike anything he's experienced before. He's never been captivated by another, never been even remotely interested in any women in the clan.

It’s all so new, so unfamiliar. He’s never been distracted this way, never had to remind himself so frequently that he shouldn’t be near someone else. It makes his head spin, confusion and frustration creating a volatile mix within him.

His eyes snap upward when he's sure you're out of sight, gaze lingering on the place you once occupied. He forces a hoarse swallow down his throat, knowing he's met his match with you. There's something unexplainable happening, a slip in his painstakingly crafted restraint that makes his heart race.

His shoulders slump as he feels further from sleep than when he arrived. After tonight, he knows the coming days will test his patience in ways he's never experienced.

But for some reason, the thought is more exhilarating than terrifying.

taglist:

@fanboyluvr @leilaniers @daughterofthequeen @aonungsmate @ebbonic @ihave500hubbiez @gamerxpfighter @certifiedpussyeater @jakexneytiri @gretesstuff @tammitammytime @tiredmamaissy @daeneeryss @lovedbychoi @valenvl12 @minjix @moslaying @sullyswife @queen190 @arcwanderer @glimmering-darling-dolly @danyxthirstae01

[insidiousclouds]

Idea for a fic I'm never going to write (because i know nothing about being a nurse):

Springtrap x newly graduated nursing student

Springtrap is considered a medical marvel, and despite his status as a criminal, he is kept in the hospital.

They discovered his identity through DNA testing.

There was a large argument of where he should be kept. Prison or hospital.

It was finally decided to keep him in the hospital, under heavy supervision. Drugged up most of the time so he can't hurt anyone.

(Obviously he's pretending that the drugs are working more than they are. If there's anything he learned after being in a room for 30 years, it's how to pretend to sleep.)

Reader is a newly graduated nurse that is a bit too gullible and nice.

While doing their rounds one evening, they enter springtrap's room by mistake.

Springtrap notices that they aren't his usual care takers and talks about how the reader must be new.

Reader of course knows who springtrap is, and immediately realizes the danger they are in. (He is high security, they aren't allowed to be here and could lose their job)

Springtrap asks them just for something simple like a glass of water

Reader figures that'll be fine, it's quick and easy. But as they get closer to hand it to him, they realize that there's no way he could drink this. His throat is too messed up.

Springtrap instead just wants to talk to them. Lamenting how it's been so boring to be a patient, how no one ever just wants to have a chat. He challenges reader's ideas of patients deserving kindness and simple human decency. Just because he's a criminal doesn't mean he should be treated like a lab rat.

Reader gets caught with him by security, and is escorted out.

Springtrap starts to act up until they bring his favorite nurse back.

Springtrap is suddenly your responsibility. You never saw him act up, he's only ever nice and charming around you. But you hear from other nurses and doctors that he was rather forceful. Grabbing other people and bruising their wrists until he got what he wanted.

And what he wanted was you.

So now, along with a few of your previous rounds, most of your day is occupied by springtrap.

You talk to him, chat about the weather, the world, the current news. Anything to help springtrap "feel like a person again." His own words describing his need for your company.

On the days you do hang out with him, he actually acts better for doctors and nurses. More cooperative, pleasant.

A lot less of a nightmare for trying to get him to do tests. Though he still refuses to take an MRI.

[bananaactivity]

Kickin It X Lab rats???

Naw jk kinda…

Billy Unger was in Kickin it for realies as a Character called Brody. Technically he was a good guy by the end but I changed that so that he and Kai are literally besties. Like imagine how Jerry and Jack are. That’s what these two are like…. But evil

LMAOO I could’ve done this with Carlos and Jay, I probably will.

Kai is like way shorter then everyone else which is funny because he’s the most violent and the leader. He’s like an angry wet cat.

Here’s the info on the two

Kai

Kyle “Kai” Andrew Brewer:

18 yrs old Born: Oct 31

Leader of the White Inferno (Second degree Black Belt)

Wassabi Parallel: Jackson “Jack” Garfield Brewer

Catchphrases: “ You're gonna regret that…” “Weak Shit.” “Im leading a pack of dipshits.” “ Ill scramble your fucking insides” “ Oh this isnt fruit juice on my clothes ,trust me.” “ I'm the best of the best, If anyone says anything to the contrary I'll kill them”

An absolutely stacked martial artist who spent lots of his time training not just for revenge but for the love of it. He is a spicy guy who has fun while being a downright dangerous man. He can get along with anyone but would rather give them heart attacks with a mere glance. He rollerblades and plays bass guitar. He's strong and agile with a domineering presence and is down right bloodthirsty (He craves confrontation and validation, nothing makes him smile like beating people to bloody pulps LMAO) He's also an asshole, don't get it twisted he's a massive dick head. Literally look at him he is a JERK.

Dragon Relationships:

Carson: His second in command who he generally trusts and his sparring partner

Brody: Someone he knows is the actual second best but also knows that competition keeps him sturdy and likes him much more than Carson. That’s his literal bestie

Frank: An idiot who tests Kai daily and of whom he's had to man handle many times, still at least a good fighter

Arthur: An absolute quack at martial arts whose spot on the team is paid. He's funny though.

Wasabi Relationships:

Jack: Kais cousin of whom he considers a weak, traitor who he's NOT even with. He will absolutely crush him like a bug if given a chance.

Kim: A girl whom Carson is obsessed with.

Jerry: A dancing buffoon

Milton: A nerd who once hit him with a crab leg. That was unforgivable and Kai is plotting his murder.

Eddy: Someone almost as talentless as Arther

Brody

Brody Edvin Carlson:

18 yrs old Born: Aug 19

3rd Rank of the White Inferno (1st Degree Black Belt/ close to second degree)

Wassabi Parallel: Jeremiah “Jerry” Tomas Martineiz

Catchphrases: “I'M THE BEST! ME. ME. ME.” “Not my problem brochacho” “I WIN. YOU LOSE. I'M THE BEST. DEAL WITH IT.”

A tough disciplined Martial Artist who respects authority immensely. He has a high skill level mixed with natural talent and quick learning that makes him a force to be reckoned with. He holds back on Carson; in respect to how Kai placed the ranks. (He's obsessed with Kai fr tho, kinda a D rider tbh) He can act crazy and have fun but seriousness is typically required to maintain respect especially in front of the WW so that they feel inferior.

Dragon Relationships:

Kai: Literally Carson is obsessed with the man as he wants to be that revered and respected for his raw power and skill.

Carson: Someone Brody will do anything to one up and desperately wants his spot as second.

Frank: His sparring partner who he sees potential in

Arthur: A rich guy

Wasabi Relationships:

Jack: Enemy number 1 but still respects his talents.

Kim: Enemy number 2, no feelings were at play for what he did to her

Jerry: Enemy number 3, a goofball with no sense of respect or discipline

Milton:Enemy number 4, a nerd but focused

Eddy: Enemy number 5, someone not to be overlooked but no match for Brody

BESTIESSSS YASSSSSS

[dr-docktor]

About Floppy Disk Curt... So, do you have some more plot made for this au? Sorry if you made a post and I missed it, I just mean - how does Owen realize that Curt is (semi) sentient? What does he do? How sentient is Curt, actually? What does he remember? And how much can he feel? Does their codependence get worse?

HAHAHA I'M SO GLAD YOU ASKED. I sort of expanded on some of the lore in some previous asks but none of it is super organized so I can go over it real quick! I'm still developing a lot of it so if things don't make a ton of sense, I'm working on fixing that lol. First off, I sort of shifted the time period around to be closer to the 90's to better fit the technology, aesthetics, and the rise in popularity of mascot-y desktop assistants.

Owen kills Curt during the staircase scene and despite what he tells himself and his coworkers. He regrets it. He regrets it so god damned much. There's no one to feel so strongly about anymore, whether it be love or seething hatred. He just feels empty.

Meanwhile, Chimera retrieved Curt's corpse and uploaded his consciousness into a computer with the hopes of getting what little he knows about the inner workings of A.S.S. out of him. (don't ask how this is possible, uhhhh silly sci-fi shenanigans I guess)

Of course, he's not cooperative. So Chimera opts to do the totally sane and not evil thing by separating himself from his memories of being human. His ambitions, his relationships, everything except for what Chimera needs. They can't seem to find a way to outright delete the memories for good (I'll probably either rework this part or figure out why they can't outright delete them) but what they can do is try and build up walls of restrictions to prevent him from accessing them. So for a a little while he's just this blank slate spitting out what little information he knows about A.S.S. Mostly useless.

Until Chimera gets an idea.

With the rise of a new trend comes the opportunity for PROFIT. This one being the rise of household computers and mascot-y desktop assistants to help the average user learn how to use a computer.

But Chimera wants to take it a step further. They are the future, after all. They want a desk top assistant that's incredibly life-like. Something that the user can have a genuine conversation with (like an incredibly early chatbot). This project is also absolutely meant to be spy-ware. 1000%. No way its not.

They call the project the 'Beta Anatomy Simulacrum Technology for Research and Development'. Or B.A.S.T.R.D for short! (I had to STRETCH to make that acronym work lmao)

Rather than start this from scratch, the project head (The name I'm going with right now is Harper Royale) has the brilliant thought of "well, what's more life-like than an actual human consciousness in a computer that we have collecting dust somewhere in the tech labs? It's already a husk we just add some code to it and bam it's ready!"

So they take the empty husk of digital curt mega and fix it up a little. Royale thinks its a good idea to give a miniscule amount of his humanity back to him. Namely curiosity (so he can learn things) and a basic understanding of how to have a functional conversation with people. Nearly everything else, like the cheery personality and character model, is all added in by the developers.

The good news is the projects going great! Employees within Chimera are finding the little guy really helpful and entertaining. Employees nickname him DC as a reference to his knowledge on A.S.S. Like their own personal informant inside DC (as in the capital of the us where a lot of government buildings and information is stored)

The bad news? Curiosity. Because now he wants to know why the sad looking British guy from one of the first few rounds of test trials keeps calling him Curt.

Tt spirals into this terrible loop of DC starting to put stuff together, never quite reaching the conclusion that he was a living person once (much less the importance of one Owen Carvour) before the employees catch on to what he's doing and reset him from square one. Over and Over and Over again. The only frame of reference that DC has are these hidden notes he leaves himself during each loop.

Eventually the higher-ups at Chimera realize that the cost of having to go through the complicated process of resetting DC the moment they figure out that he's gained a little sentience and then run through test trials AGAIN simply outweighs the potential profit. So they move to shut down the project, much to Royale's dismay.

The higher-ups joke that Carvour should be the one to do the honors, given everything between him and Curt. And he's like "ok yeah I'll do it" and they're like "we were joking but you've given us zero reason to doubt you so have fun killing the simulacrum of your former closest friend, bestie"

Owen, of course, decides to go behind everyone's backs and download the one and only existing copy of the B.A.S.T.R.D program onto his personal computer. At this point, Owen has no clue about DC slowly regaining his sentience if left unchecked and literally only did it because he has problems about processing the fact that he killed Curt that he refuses to confront. (what a normal guy)

So slowly, having been freed from this loop of resets, DC slowly begins to put together the pieces. He doesn't know how exactly Owen may or may not be involved in any of this, but he keeps most of this growing autonomy a secret for safety reasons. Just in case Owen is decidedly someone not to be trusted and turns him in.

DC, however, will test still the waters by subtly bringing up memories that he knows are somehow important to either him or Owen and then gauging his reaction. Doing his damn best to put together context clues.

Admittedly I don't have anything beyond this yet. I'm still working on Owen's reactions to all of this and also how the technology works. But I hope this answers at least some of your questions!

[pkmnprofloblolly]

I've always wondered, why is it possible to revive a cranidos from a skull fossil but impossible to revive a cubune's mother's skull? Is there something special about the fossilization process? Thanks!

very good question!

while we call it revival, the process of bringing an extinct pokemon back to life is actually a process of cloning. we're only currently able to revive a few select species of fossil pokemon, because there's been a lot of hard work put in to piece together a complete genome for the species, from what tiny amounts are able to be gleaned from fossils, and much borrowed from extant (non-extinct) modern relatives and reconstructed into an entire genome.

when you bring in a fossil for revival, it's taken back and parts of it are actually dissolved away. what's left are tiny preserved cells, in which one can find fragmented strands of genetic material. this material is taken, sequenced, and where appropriate, added to the known genome for that particular pokemon. every fossil you bring in could provide a new part of the genome, making every subsequent reconstruction more accurate to the original animal. repeated sections of dna are also useful for creating genetic diversity within the revived pokemon, so they aren't all just genetically identical to one another, making modern-day breeding projects more safe from the pitfalls of inbreeding.

the reconstructed genome of the pokemon in question is then used to create an embryo, which is artificially incubated and rapidly grown to an age suitable to join a trainer's team. this entire process, from extracting dna to growing the pokemon, has been so streamlined that it only takes a few weeks to months to get your pokemon after you bring a fossil in.

this genetic modification is actually why all* the fossil pokemon you're able to train are rock type. rock types are hardy, and much of their body is often made of rock rather than anything organic. the process by which the "test tube baby" pokemon is grown would lead to weak, brittle bones/exoskeletons and other significant structural problems due to the extremely quick growth without the rock typing. so, the varieties produced for trainers have been modified with genes from related living rock types (ie. rhyhorn and aron lines for fossil dinosaurs, klawf for fossil arthropods, and so on) to allow them to sustain that. "pure"-typed fossil pokemon do exist, but are created via traditional cloning methods. this takes much more time and effort to create with a much higher rate of failure, and are therefore relegated only to academics studying those pokemon.

(*oh, and, uh. dr. cara liss, the scientist responsible for the reproducible genomes of the galarian fossil pokemon, has.. unique methods of combining genomes of pokemon she claims are the same species that lead to the bizarre mishmashes that are dracozolt, arctovish, and the rest. while she's obviously an incredibly skilled geneticist (note how the galarian fossils are not rock type like mentioned before but can still grow and live just fine, even despite being what they are), basically nobody agrees that these pokemon were ever real. their component parts, though, were, and have been restored in full in some labs around the world.)

so, to get back to your actual question: theoretically, you could take the marowak skull a cubone wears, and grow a pokemon from its dna. however, it would just be a new individual cubone, with the same genome of the marowak. it would not be the same individual deceased marowak, without any memories or anything like that.

[ooc notes below cut]

felt the need to put a few notes on this one since it differs a lot from the real world without much disclaimer- i like to imagine that the pokemon world is just a better timeline where dna is hardier and lasts much longer.

in real life, dna is incredibly fragile. it usually degrades in even very, very well-preseved remains on the order of hundreds or thousands of years, far from the dozens-hundreds of millions needed to sequence the genomes of animals like pachycephalosaurs (cranidos) (66mya) or anomalocaris (anorith) (500mya). there is some real old dna out there, though- i found out in researching this ask that environmental dna from about 2 million years ago was just published on a couple days ago, giving a snapshot into an entire ecosystem. that's unbearably cool.

however, in real life, we HAVE recovered actual soft-tissue preserved cells from even more ancient remains. that's what i based that dna extraction process on- people have dissolved away the mineral content of dinosaur bones to reveal actual osteocytes (bone cells).

oh, also the test-tube grow-fast baby thing isn't real either. irl clones are implanted into an enucleated egg of a surrogate mother the same species and born like any other baby. this is the "traditional" cloning methods mentioned earlier in the post.

[vibraniumavenger]

Ties That Mend -Part 4

Find part 3 here. Ties That Mend Masterlist.

When you awoke the next morning, you couldn't help but smile to yourself. Not only was it the longest you had slept nightmare free, you also felt extremely positive about everything now. Things were slowly but surely looking up, although you weren't entirely sure where you stood with Tony, you were definitely in a better place with each other than you had been previously. As you jumped in the shower, the team were enjoying their breakfast together at the table. 

“Yesterday was strange, am I right?” Clint somewhat mocked, causing Nat to roll her eyes. “You doofus, of course it was strange. They’ve avoided each other since Y/N joined, now all of a sudden they're best buds? It doesn't add up.” She stated, drawing the attention of the others. They all nodded their heads in agreement. “Tony’s with Pepper, so we know they aren't together. Maybe they just decided to put their differences aside and agreed to be civil for the team?” Steve tried to justify. The conversation went back and forth between them all, before Sam had an idea. 

“Hey, Maximoff…” he smirked, wiggling his eyebrows at Wanda. Her eyes widened before shaking her head quickly, “No, it is not happening. I will not poke around in their heads without their consent. It has troubled me many times. I do not wish to comply.” Wanda then excused herself, shoving her breakfast in the bin before walking out. Sam sighed, desperate to find out truth. “What about the camera footage? Surely theres a piece of audio we could use to confirm anything?” Nat smirked at his suggestion. “Jarvis, play audio footage of Tony’s conversation with Y/N,” she demanded. 

“Access denied.” the A.I announced, making Tony laugh as he walked in. “You really think we’d be that stupid? Of course we wiped all traces of video and audio footage, I knew you idiots would try your luck.” he laughed once again, before walking over to Pepper, giving her a quick kiss as he took the plate from her hand. “Hey Pep, what do you think of this whole thing? Are you not worried?” Pepper laughed, shaking her head. “I trust Tony and Y/N. I also know their dirty little secret.” she smirked, taking a sip of her coffee.

You eventually walked in, ignoring the others. “Morning Tony, morning Pepper.” “Morning Y/N, coffee?” Tony asked, extending the cup he had just prepared you. You took a sip, smiling at the familiarity. The flashbacks of the late nights you and Tony would spend working and drinking his ‘special’ coffee to keep yourselves awake came back to you. “Thank you. It’s good,” you complimented. He ruffled your hair, smiling as he walked away. 

It felt strange, scary even. Not only had this been foreign to you for many years, but you were adapting to it rather quickly. You walked out after Tony, catching up to him and heading down to the lab. 

He took a seat and you sat opposite. “So, what're you working on, anything I can help with?” You were quick to offer your assistance, hoping he would accept. He looked over his sheet of paper before looking up at, you “Actually, there is. If you grab the blackboard, you can help me solve this.” 

Doing as he said, you positioned the blackboard and began working. You both seemed to get lost in your work, testing every possible formula for his desired finish. “Wait, I think we have it! The equation is N2H4 + HNO3 → N2H5NO3. Y/N, pass me the hydrazine and nitric acid,” searching through the alphabetically organised cabinet, you finally found them both. “Tony, are you sure this is right?” you questioned, slightly concerned about his choice. “Relax, we did our research right. You and I have done a good job, now grab your goggles and gloves!” 

Hesitantly, you pulled your gloves over your hands and placed your goggles over your eyes. You handed Tony what he needed and stood close by, waiting for the reaction. He handled the substances with care as he measured each of them out. Ensuring the measurements were precise, he went ahead and began his test. The second the two mixed, a loud bang erupted before flames raised before you both. Almost instantly, footsteps made their way to the lab. The fire alarm began blaring and water rained down on you, extinguishing the fire. Tony slowly met your gaze as Pepper swung the door open, “What on earth were you thinking? Tony, are you trying to get us killed?” She began lecturing Tony until she realised you were standing there, also showing signs of involvement. “Y/N, really? I can barely handle Tony, now theres two of you? You really are alike…” Pepper let out an exasperated sigh before rubbing her temples in a circular motion, “I need a drink.” 

Moments later, the rest of the team joined. “What the heck was that?” Bruce asked, mildly concerned. “It’s fine, it's under control. We’ve already had our lecture, please go back to whatever you were doing.” Tony reassured. Everybody sighed and turned away, abandoning the lab as you and Tony stood quietly. Once alone, you couldn't contain your laughter. Tony soon followed as he laughed too, clutching his sides. “Ah man, Pepper was so mad! It was hilarious.” You both high five each other, exactly how you would back in the day. You both spent the remainder of the day in the lab. 

“Fury, where is it this time?” You asked as you answered your phone. “Russia. I’ll have the report sent over within the hour, you head out tomorrow. Good luck, Agent Stark.” You nod to him through the camera, “Thank you, Sir.” You ended the call immediately after, hoping nobody had heard him use your birth name before heading back to your room. Fury stayed true to his word, the report was delivered within the hour by S.H.I.E.L.D.S. very own Agent Coulson. After thanking him, you walked off to your room. 

As you studied the file in your hands, you couldn’t help but let a small smile grace your face as you thought about your first mission as an Avenger. Your time as an Avenger the past few months hadn’t been the best, you hadn’t formed any proper relationships with the rest of the team. Now that you had started sorting things out with Tony, you knew it was time to start trying to interact with the team, instead of feeling obliged to take part in small talk with one another. Closing the file, you put it aside and start getting ready for bed. 

The next morning, you awoke early. You showered, before suiting up and heading down to the debriefing room, stopping to pour a coffee on the way. You were the first one to arrive, Steve was next, followed by Bucky and lastly, Natasha. The mission seemed fairly simple, it wasn’t anything you weren’t familiar with. It’d start with a stakeout, the four of you would gather as much intel as you could before infiltrating the hideout of Valentina Petrovaand retrievingstolen Stark Industries weapons and technology. You each discussed the mission with each other, ensuring everybody was on the same page and clear on the instructions. “We leave in an hour, go grab your things”.

Your gear was already prepared, so you loaded the jet and went back in to find Tony. “Hey kid, you heading out?” 

You nod, “I’ll be gone a few days it seems, I’m just excited to see some action.” Tony chuckled, “I bet. You be careful out there, okay? I’ve lost you once, I don’t want to lose you again.” You hugged him, “Are you getting all soppy on me?” Just as Tony opened his mouth to reply, Steve walked in. “Howard, lets go.” 

“And, that’s my cue. Later, Stark.” You bid your goodbyes, and follow Steve to the jet, taking a seat and getting comfortable as you prepare to take off. The flight was silent for the first few hours, you didn’t mind though. You took the opportunity to nap lightly, making up for the early morning and the lack of sleep the night before. Steve nudged your foot as he sat down, causing you to jump awake, in a confused state, you take in your surroundings. “Sorry, Y/N! I didn’t see your foot there.” You gave him a soft smile, “No need to apologise, its absolutely fine! It was about time I woke up anyway.” You readjusted yourself in your seat, sitting up straighter. Steve turned to you, “How are you feeling about the mission?” You thought for a second, deciding how you would answer. “I’m looking forward to it, it's been a while since I’ve actually been on a mission. I’m intrigued to see how the four of us work together out there, especially considering we haven’t really acknowledged each others presence since I’ve been a part of the team. I’m hoping we can maybe start changing that?” 

Steve nodded, “I’d definitely like that, and I’m sure the others will too. Y/N, please forgive me if I seem out of line when I say this, it’s not my intention at all, but we just have a few concerns. We know nothing about you, and that’s fine! Please don’t feel pressured telling us about your past, we would just like to know that we can trust you out there. As you know, we need to have each others backs and we just need to know that you’ll have ours. If there’s any way you can reassure us, that’ll be a huge help.”

You weren’t sure what to say, it definitely caught you off guard but you knew how to reassure him, at least you hoped it would. Reaching into your bag, you pulled out a photo and handed it to Steve without a word. “You knew Peggy?” Steve asked as he held the picture in his hands. “Yeah, I did. She’s family.” You responded. “Family? She never mentioned you…” Steve replied, still slightly disbelieving. 

“She was my Aunt Peggy. My family wanted to keep me safe, I was kept as low key as possible until necessary. I guess you could say she adored me, I was her little angel. She solely raised me from the age of sixteen, she’s the reason I joined S.H.I.E.L.D. and the whole reason I am who I am today. Without her, I’d be doing something completely different, I’d also be a different person. I have her to thank for my accomplishments,” you smiled, enjoying the memories of your late Aunt. 

“So, if you’re related to her, you must've known Stark as a child? Peggy was around him a lot as far as I know.” You couldn't help but let out a small laugh. “You’re right. Peggy was very fond of him, she was the only person he would listen to. Throughout his self-destructive years, she would guide him in the right direction as much as she could. Tony and I did know each other as children. In fact, we were closer than you think. I also know how much you meant to Peggy, so rest assured you can trust me. I’ll have your backs.” 

This most certainly reassured him, he stared at the picture with a sad smile, until suddenly it was like a lightbulb went off in his head, “Your last name, Howard… Howard as in your-” Before he could finish his sentence, you let out a quiet laugh, “As in my father.” 

Steve knew what this meant, of course he did. It all made sense, so many things became clear. Despite having many questions, he just nodded in understanding, and smiled back down at the picture before handing it back. “Thank you for sharing that with me, I wont say a word.” And with that, he went and sat back over by Bucky. You felt relieved, it was one less person that you had to lie to. 

The rest of the flight was smooth, although you couldn’t wait to reach the safe house. As the four of you left the jet, you loaded your bags into the hired car and began the short drive to the destination. Thankfully, everything the team needed was set up there already. You all sat and assigned the shifts you’d scope out. You offered to cover the first night shift,  “I don’t mind taking the night shift, I don’t sleep much anyway so it’s no biggie.” Steve agreed, and Bucky was quick to offer his assistance on the nights also. It made sense, you had heard about his nightmares. 

“Well, now that we’ve settled that, we should get organised. I’ll run and grab us some food, and then we can begin.” 

Steve did as he said, he went to grab food for everybody and you all sat, discussing things amongst yourselves as you ate, preparing for the night ahead. It was nice, the anxiety you had felt previously was slowly drifting away. Without realising, you had zoned out as you thought about it until Nat snapped her fingers in front of your face, “Howard, you with us?” She eyed you suspiciously, trying to read your expression. “Huh, sorry I got lost in my thoughts.” 

Steve was the one that spoke up, “Happens to the best of us.” As everybody finished eating, you offered to clear up. You decided to get changed into something more comfortable, and gathering everything you may need for the night ahead. Natasha and Steve eventually said good night, and you took a seat by the equipment. Bucky took a seat next to you, handing you a coffee without saying a word. You could tell he was somewhat on edge, and you understood. You hadn’t actually had much interaction with him during your time with the team. He was just as closed off as you were, but you couldn’t complain. You knew he had his reasons. You thanked him, and he returned a smile in return. Neither of you said anything for a while, you opened your mouth to attempt to start conversation multiple times, but you just didn’t know how to approach it. Instead, you just took a sip of your coffee. “It’s good, it’s exactly how I like it.” 

It was silent for a moment longer, and eventually you heard him respond, “I’m glad. Hopefully, it helps keep you awake.” You smile to yourself, before looking out at the night skyline, and speak up once again, hoping to initiate further conversation. “It’s a peaceful view, isn’t it? Reminds me of the calm before the storm, just like this mission.” Bucky nods in response, appreciating the observation. Bucky glances out of the window, watching the night sky for a moment before turning his attention back to you. He takes a deep breath and decides to share a little about himself, "You know, I used to hate stakeouts like this. They reminded me of the old days, but I've learned to find some peace in the quiet moments." He looks at you, hoping you can relate. You take in Bucky's words, finding a connection in his vulnerability. You nod and reply softly, "I understand what you mean. Quiet moments like these can bring back memories, both good and bad. But they also allow us to reflect and find strength in our experiences." And Bucky couldn’t agree more, he was often burdened with his memories, especially when he had the chance to think about them. It went silent again, the two of you just sitting in your thoughts as you observed the streets below. 

Bucky was next to break the ice, not wanting the silence to become awkward, but also letting curiosity get the better of him, “What’s your deal with Stark?” He noticed your eyes widen briefly and he quickly spoke up again, “I’m sorry, you don’t have to tell me. It’s just- I noticed you have quite a strained relationship with him, and I can relate to that. Our experiences are different, I’m sure but if you ever wanna talk at all…” You felt bad, you knew you were about to change everything, maybe even erase all the progress you had made with each other tonight, but you didn’t want to be dishonest with him. He had opened up after all, so it was only fair. “Bucky, I’m about to tell you something and I want you to hear me out before you say anything, okay?” He nodded in agreement and motioned for you to continue. 

“Tony is my brother… we lost contact when I was sixteen and hadn’t seen each other since until that first day I was at the tower. We didn’t leave on good terms, and it’s been a struggle but we’re getting there. I think I’m finally forgiving him, and I’m just trying to make up for the time I lost.” Bucky was lost for words, inside he was panicking, “Howard and Maria were your parents? Y/N, I need to tell you something…” 

You gave him a sad smile, shaking your head slowly as you placed your hand over his briefly. “You don’t need to say anything, I already know, Buck. I also know that it wasn’t you, nor was it your fault. Nothing will change the fact that it happened, I’ve come to terms with it and I forgive you. Peggy told me the stories of you and Steve, the real you. Not the you that you think you are.” 

Bucky avoided looking at you, the guilt eating him alive. He killed your parents, and you were being nice to him. It was the complete opposite to Tony’s reaction. Before he had time to process what you were saying, he noticed movement across the street, snapping him back into work mode. The two of you watched intently, Bucky writing everything down and you capturing pictures. Eventually, the suspect slipped into the building and you relaxed back into your seat. “Thank you for that, for the forgiveness. It means a lot.” 

Eventually, the sun came up. It was glaring into the room, basking you both in the orange tint of the morning sunrise. You both felt at ease, it was nice. Natasha and Steve trudged out of their rooms, and you briefed them on your findings as you swapped places, the sleepiness kicking in as you made your way into the bedroom. The second your head hit the pillow, you fell into a deep sleep.

A/N: I hate this chapter, it was so frustrating to write and it feels all over the place but I'm hoping the next one will be better. The next chapter is almost like the second half of this one, as it continues on but I just wanted to get this posted, in hopes it'll motivate me. Thank you for being so patient, its appreciated. Once again, if you have any suggestions let me know. I'd love to hear your feedback on this chapter.

Taglist: @vicmc624 @how-to-disappearrr

[blametheeditor]

The Expense Of Trust | Chapter 1

Anomalies and Incident Reports

Next

Content Warnings: Cursing. Mentions of death and murder. Mentions of others being lesser than. Intent to kill. Death by anomaly. Darker themes and tone.

Run Down: In the instant of a site-wide containment breach, there are only a few protocols available to follow. Know the right people, hope to be at the right place at the right time, and whatever you do, don't trust anything.

Well, well, well

__________________________________

“Have you been keeping David in line?” 

“You mean have I been keeping Fritz out of trouble?” 

“Yes to both questions, James,” Fritz grins, quick to wipe it away before David can spot it and threaten to report for insubordination. He really never knows when the senior researcher will actually follow through on requesting a change for an assistant. “There haven’t been any experiments that required him to put on a lab coat.” 

“Thank goodness,” has David glaring at the phone currently on speaker, the sarcasm in James’ voice loud and clear. There’s also a few sounds of shouting in the background, but neither of them comment. “How would he ever survive?”

“It’s not my fault your idiotic institution has dumbass rules.”

Fritz wisely decides not to join in on reminding the tall man never seen wearing anything but a full piece suit why a lab coat is required. He doesn’t need a lecture about how it’s a crime forcing such clothing to be covered by such a gaudy accessory. Not with James ensuring he sighs loud enough there’s no mistaking it. “Oh no, you’re so right, David. Getting acid spilt on you and damaging your suit that way is much better than protecting it and yourself for the sake of aesthetics. Remind me, what are you two doing right now?” 

David sends a look that says Fritz will cover for him, or the redheaded teenager is going to regret it, especially when they don’t have a specific date for when James will return to protect him from the senior researcher’s wrath. 

Fritz glances around the room they had been assigned to today. With David standing in the corner by the door, his phone sitting on a nearby table. Almost directly opposite, the teenager stands at the sterilized counter beside a sealed glovebox that takes up a majority of the space. 

Good news, technically David doesn’t need a lab coat right now considering the substance they’re testing is already safely inside the chamber. Bad news, he’s being a terrible role model for following safety procedures. 

“He’s safely out of the contamination area,” Fritz offers. 

“At this point people will begin to genuinely ask how you ever became qualified to be a senior researcher,” James remarks. 

“Well certain people should stay out of other’s business when it doesn’t concern them,” David growls. 

“I can’t help but feel like that was a jab toward me.” 

“Of course it was a jab toward you!”

Fritz quickly hides his laughter as the two continue to fight, focusing back on the task at hand. Putting on gloves and goggles before starting only a few basic tests on what had been described to them as a chemical produced by SCP-8202 that’s more of just an unknown variable rather than a harmful one. 

Honestly, he’s kind of curious how David and James became such good friends. Despite the hostility, the tactical response officer on the other end of the phone is called almost weekly, if not daily depending on what managed to annoy David enough that he needed to demand support. And it’s usually because someone brought up the lack of him wearing anything for safety. 

The best part is James doesn’t tell the senior researcher to stop, or to lower the amount, despite the fact they all know he is currently working an active mission of containing an anomaly offsite. The soft shouts from before has turned into larger amounts, and yet the argument still continues. There really never it any anger unless David is actively distracting him and refuses to hang up when things get...chaotic. 

David’s never been the cause of a mission failing, or of someone getting hurt. But James has been pretty good at balancing entertaining his friend, and ensuring he knows that as good as the officer is at his job, he’s not an all-powerful being who can make everything wrong with the world vanish with the snap of his fingers. 

Fritz jumps as a siren suddenly blares. He actively attempts to set the breaker in his hand down carefully despite the uncontrollable shaking, but there’s no denying the terror snaking its way into his mind. Panick almost wanting to make him throw the fragile object despite it containing a still fairly unknown chemical just to get out, get to safety, he has to-! 

The redhead curls in on himself when he feels two hands on his shoulders, stopping his frantic movements. He takes a moment to take a few deep breaths before looking up at David’s flat expression. At least there’s no anger. 

“It’s not to alert us there’s been a containment breach,” David begins. “This one is to let everyone know they’re doing a controlled transfer to get an SCP to another facility.” 

It takes a moment for the words to sink in, to latch onto ‘controlled transfer’. Hesitate at the fact the siren doesn’t sound like the one to signal the immediate need to evacuate, a lot softer and with a different pitch than the one he heard during orientation. Suddenly feels embarrassed by his reaction. 

“S-Sorry,” Fritz murmurs. He finally manages to carefully set down the beaker before withdrawing his hands from the box. 

David frees him, but instead of demanding they begin the report with the few things Fritz accomplished, the tall man motions to the door. “Let’s go watch it.” 

Fritz will admit he completely froze out of pure terror. At the thought at getting anywhere near an anomaly outside of containment, whether or not it’s controlled with multiple personnel ensuring nothing goes wrong. “W-Watch it?”

“It’ll be safe. The message I got this morning even encouraged us to watch.” 

“It will be completely safe, Fritz,” James pipes up. “You should check it out, even for just a second.” 

Now Fritz feels humiliated rather than embarrassed. The two teaming up due to knowing why he reacted to both the siren and the suggestion in such a way. It’s even worse James understood what happened despite being on a phone call. Fritz almost regrets admitting a little bit about why he’s an assistant researcher for the Foundation. 

...James has never been malicious, though. If anything, David figured out real quick that the redhead would be the only thing that’d lower his anger if, say, there was a call right as the officer was about to capture an anomaly before it literally blew up in his face. 

And despite the superior outer shell, David’s been more or less warming up to Fritz. No longer wrinkles his nose when the teenager is in close proximity or snaps to shut up despite responding to a question that had been asked. Even before then, the senior researcher wasn’t trying to torture the unwanted assistant, just find ways to pass him along to someone else. 

After a few months of working together, Fritz isn’t despised. David isn’t walking out the door to force his assistant to follow considering today he was tasked specifically to help the tall man with the sole reason David always knows what’s best. 

“...we, we can go watch.” 

“Hanging up, James.” 

“Don’t hesitate to call back.” 

David roll his eyes as he pockets his phone before walking out of the room. Fritz jolts at the realization he’s being left behind before shedding his gloves and goggles, chasing after the man who’s a full foot taller and yet never slows his pace down. 

“He bitches about me calling, but whenever the dumbass is worried about you he’s more than happy to get covered in ash again despite complaining it took him weeks to get it all off.” 

The teenager is forced to jog to keep up. “Well, you do-” 

“Don’t finish that sentence.”

Fritz smiles at the threatening tone despite knowing where they’re headed. Glad to have something to keep his mind off of it. Forcing his limbs not to lock up as he repeats the promises this is safe. Nothing will happen.

David’s hand catches Fritz’s lab coat before he can jog past the senior researcher, yelping as he’s pulled toward a set of large windows he’s never seen before. He then slowly moves closer when it becomes clear they’re not looking into a room level with them, his breath catching at the sight of having to look down, down, down before he finally spots the ground floor. Which is both terrifying and yet comforting knowing they’re so far away from the anomaly. 

The redhead nearly screams when he finally spots it. Such a small form from this high up, but a creature not made for this world none the less. One that’s tall, so thin he can see the edges of its internal structure, and a muted teal color from head to toe. An eerie figure that only becomes uncanny when it takes a stuttering step forward, swaying as if it’ll fall over at any second. 

Then it lunges.

David catches him before he can sprint away, pulling the teenager close so there’s no escape. From the anomaly, from the idea the officers currently standing directly beside it getting attacked, at the memories of that same walk advancing toward Fritz. 

”Whaaat are you s-so afraid of?”

“You’re not wrong to assume anyone but James are complete dumbasses when it comes to interacting with SCP’s without dying themselves,” David muses, sounding almost annoyed. 

Fritz takes a deep breath when it’s clear he’s acting like a scared child, far from the professional assistant researcher he’s done everything in his power to be for David due to the man accepting nothing but perfection from those around him. Clenches his fist and grits his teeth in order to see what’s being spoken about. 

Unable to help but stare at the anomaly being completely frozen midair, unable to complete the lunge that was too fast to avoid. 

“But no one would transfer an SCP without first having all of the proper equipment,” David finishes. “Not to mention, we’re inside a place built on protecting against things like this. Humans like James are trained on responding to situations where someone’s in danger.” 

Just like that night, when Fritz should have been killed. Unable to escape even if he could get himself to move, to run. It was faster than him. Didn’t feel any remorse wearing the skin of someone he knew. There was a field agent who managed to save him before it was too late.

...David’s actually trying to comfort him. 

Fritz blinks at the realization. Because this was more than just explaining why someone’s being stupid, those words were specifically meant for reassurance. It makes him smile at the black mail he can give to James when the man’s back on site before leaving for another mission. Appreciative, but never thought he’d see the day. 

“What are you looking at, dumbass?” 

Fritz’s smile immediately disappears when it’s clear he was caught. "I, I appreciate you letting me watch.” 

David scowls before suddenly turning on his heel in order to walk back the way they came. Fritz takes a moment to watch the anomaly slowly wake up, its limbs carefully resetting itself to stand rather than falling to the floor in order to make its way to the waiting truck. Quickly running after his senior researcher. 

“Now get back to work!” 

Fritz nods as he grins. Finds himself a lot less tense despite the siren still blaring. Straightening up in attention when David places a hand on his head, almost confused at seeing the hazel eyes harden. 

“I won’t let any SCP hurt you. If anything ever happens, wait until I find you.” 

It’s such an odd request. Yet it’s said so earnestly Fritz can only nod. “Okay, Dr. Harrison.” 

He should’ve seen it coming, but then again it’s David. Someone who rarely does certain actions only James tends to do out of fondness. Meaning the senior researcher earns a squawk as he ruffles the red hair with a smirk. “Dumbass.”

Fritz tries everything in his power to get his breathing under controlling, going so far as to holding it instead of hyperventilating. It’s the only thing he can do. Not when his body reacted on its own as soon as the siren started blaring. Sending him diving under the counter before curling into the smallest ball possible. 

Now, of all times, why was he remembering that day? Of both David and James attempting to help him with the obvious terror? The promise Fritz made? 

Maybe because it’s better to think about that rather than the fact the entire site has been compromised. At the fact Fritz had been working completely alone while testing a few chemicals after agreeing to switch tasks with his colleague for the day. Knowing he won’t be saved, that this is it, but unable to help but feel comfort and hope that somehow David will actually be able to find him. That James will appear on site despite the fact he left for a mission two days ago. 

Fritz knows it’s nothing but wishful thinking, and yet he can’t bare the thought of a fatal anomaly stumbling upon him at any minute. 

He truthfully doesn’t know what’s better. Knowing that something went wrong is one thing. The siren states there’s been a site-wide containment breach, meaning either an anomaly entered by itself and is causing havoc, or every single cell for hundreds of documented anomalies have just unlocked. Considering the door to the room Fritz was conducting experiments in opened on its own occurred without anyone’s presence, it staying opening, it’s clear the latter is true. 

Yet he hasn’t heard or seen any evidence of every anomaly escaping at once. It’s been almost too quiet, not even the sounds of personnel running or screaming. So despite everything saying he needs to evacuate as soon as possible, it almost feels like nothing’s wrong. 

Fritz still can’t move. Can’t even try to peer into the hallway just to see if he should start running. Not when he’s locked in place. Even when he hears the distinct sound of footsteps quickly making their way down the hallway. Despite the fact they’re getting closer and closer to him. And he’s just waiting, just like before. 

He can only stare in horror as shoes appear in his field of vision as something walks into the room. 

...he knows those shoes. 

“Fritz!” 

That’s David’s voice. Not a stranger’s, not a warped cry of an anomaly. But that can’t be real. How would the man find him? How-? 

Fritz can’t breathe when the figure is suddenly kneeling to reveal David, who looks relieved when he spots the shivering redhead. “You scared the shit out of me. Come on we need to go.” 

It’s automatic, reaching out to accept the outstretched hand. The promise Fritz will be kept safe. Or at the very least won’t be alone. 

”Come heeeere.”

Fritz yanks his hand back, bumping into the wall in the attempt to get as far away from the thing trying to trick him. Shaking his head to force himself not to trust what seems like a genuine look of confusion and concern. 

“Are you D-Dr. Harrison?” 

It takes a moment to register what was asked, especially because Fritz can’t speak above a whisper. But he sees when it’s comprehended. The look of fond annoyance so familiar it hurts. “What kind of dumbass question is that?”

That seals it. That this really is David and not something pretending to be him. Responding in such a way that couldn’t be rehearsed enough to sound that genuine. 

Fritz lunges forward, the taller’s eyes widening in surprise before yelping as the momentum sends them both falling. The redhead doesn’t apologize though, not when he’s too busy clinging to David as tightly as possible, slumping in relief when all that happens is a sigh before he’s hugged instead of getting killed because he made the wrong choice. 

“It’s okay. Nothing’s going to touch you now that I’m here,” David murmurs. Fritz doesn’t want to call out the lie. Not when he was found. He doesn’t know how, and maybe he doesn’t want to know, but the promise was kept.

Fritz laughs when he’s awkwardly pat on the back after a minute. “Th-Thanks for, for finding me.” 

“I said I would, didn’t I?” David demands. The redhead doesn’t protest as he’s sat up, snorting when the senior researcher’s first priority is to dust his suit off. “Shut up, be grateful I didn’t yell at you for making me lie on the floor.” 

If there had been any doubts before, they would’ve disappeared by now. No one but David can be that protective over his suit. Despite the siren still attempting to alert anyone around that can hear it there has been a fatal error somewhere on site. 

Before Fritz can ask what happened, he’s being helped to his feet before getting lead out the door. There’s no time to realize and panic that they could encounter a dangerous anomaly immediately. Not when he’s already standing in the hallway that’s...completely empty. The pure white walls untouched. 

“Stay behind me.” 

David doesn’t free his arm until Fritz nods to state he understands. The senior researcher then begins to walk down the hallway, his assistant immediately following at a slight jog in order to keep up with the fairly quick pace. Almost like today wasn’t any different from yesterday. Or a few days before that. 

When they reach a corner, David doesn’t hesitate to round it without so much as slowing down, Fritz essentially left behind as he skids to a halt. Panicked at the fact something could’ve been waiting. The senior researcher almost acting like the entire facility hasn’t been compromised. The doors to the observation rooms of certain anomalies are wide open not even a few feet away. 

"Fritz?” 

Green eyes blink up at David watching him worriedly. Realized he left the teenager behind and came back for him. It causes Fritz to hug himself knowing he’s the reason they’re no longer heading toward the exit. Able to be stumbled upon by an anomaly. “Y-You just, what if-?” 

“Hey, take a deep breath,” David softly commands. “I will get us safely out of here in one piece whether we encounter an SCP or not. But I need you to trust me.”

Trust the man who managed to find him without being told of the switched tasks. The man who refuses to follow standard safety procedures. The man who ridiculed him from day one of being assigned as assistant. The man who acts like he’s a god at times and had a habit of refusing to obey instructions when an observation became compromised. 

The same man who did find him to make sure he got out safely. 

“...I trust you Dr. Harrison.” 

David smiles as he squeezes Fritz’s shoulder. “Just stay close, don’t stop unless I do. I’ll explain once we’re out.” 

He nods to say he’ll accept it. Confused and still terrified that David’s only acting like he’s invincible. But if they do get out safely, Fritz will never doubt the tall man again. 

Fritz obediently jogs after David as they round the corner, biting his tongue when instead of following the hallways toward the ‘nearest’ exit, they seem to take a roundabout path instead as they make a right instead of continuing forward. To be honest, the facility is so vast the redhead can’t help but get lost at times. Maybe there are quicker ways to get out. Ones assistant researchers aren’t knowledgeable of. 

“I really hope that stupid thing got turned off as well,” David mumbles. “We should’ve already found- James!” 

Fritz yelps as he collides with the taller figure suddenly coming to a stop, unable to say anything about the amused smirk he earns due to getting a bit dazed from the impact. He’s not nearly as confused to not grab David’s arm to hold him back before he can start down the hallway to where a familiar figure stands. One that shouldn’t be possible. Yet it perks up at the called name. 

It looks like James. From his brown hair to the custom made tactical belt clipped around his waist. They haven’t heard the man speak, but at least David isn’t forcing them to go towards what might be the officer they know. 

“H-How do we know?” Fritz breathes. Unable to finish the sentence. Pleads David understands he’s not questioning the senior researcher, just questioning if they can trust what they see. 

It takes a moment, but a soft ‘ah’ is made once David realizes. “It’s James. I’d be able to tell if it was an SCP in disguise.” 

Fritz wants to ask how, but it’s too late, ‘James’ slowing down when he gets about a few feet away with his hands held up in surrender. “Hey, Fritz. It’s just me. The same one you called about David possibly going on a rampage because someone tried to make him wear a lab coat again.” 

That sounds convincing, but he can’t know for sure, meaning he doesn’t let go of the arm attempting to tug them both forward. If David’s wrong about being able to tell what’s an anomaly. Is that a reaction James would have? Is that from years of containing different creatures with unknown abilities, or just something trying its hardest to earn their trust?

"What about the same one you secretly called because you were concerned David was sick because he acting ‘too nice’?” 

“You did what?” 

Fritz doesn’t respond to David’s question, lunging toward the familiar smirk at managing to get on the taller’s nerve. He’s caught before immediately getting pulled into a hug. Definitely their James. “S-Sorry.” 

“No, you did good,” the officer assures. “We all know David is a terrible role model.” 

“I am not!” David exclaims. “I was right, wasn’t I!”

Brown eyes roll before Fritz is gently pushed away in order for James to pat down his arms, a more than familiar ritual by now. “Have either of you encountered anything? I only saw one anomaly.” 

“Nothing as of yet. Don’t know if that’s a good sign or a really bad one.”

Fritz watches as James seems to hesitate, meeting his gaze before looking up at David. “Bad. Meaning we need to get out as soon as possible, meaning you’re leading the way.” 

The senior researcher doesn’t question it. Only checks to make sure they’re ready to go before heading back the way they came. This time at a much slower pace in which Fritz no longer has to jog just to keep up. 

Somehow, it makes this ten times worse. Fritz knows they might being going slower because now they actually have someone who can at least keep an anomaly at bay if not neutralize it for a short period of time. Knows it’s because James is keeping an eye behind them with one glance back at the officer. David might not be trained to help on missions in capturing anomalies, but it wouldn’t be surprising it he wasn’t given a few lessons on what should be done if something like this ever happened.

But it gives Fritz time to think. To jump at every little sound reverberating through the hallways he hadn’t noticed before. Following David, but feeling like he’s missing something if he’s in front instead of James. 

“Did you just arrive on site?” Fritz finally asks. Quietly because it feels wrong if he raised his voice anymore. Needing to talk. 

“I did, actually. We just transported a keter that’s no longer contained, but I had been on my way to find you guys when the siren started.” 

“Do we know why it happened?” David calls over his shoulder. 

“It came from the higher ups,” James all but growls. “I didn’t see any damage, didn’t feel the entire place shake from an explosion. And considering the lights and ventilation system is still functioning, there was a specific command put in to open all cells.” 

Fritz gasps as David suddenly stops again, crashing against the taller and stumbling back. He nearly trips over his own feet to fall onto the hard ground when James manages to catch his arm. He appreciates it considering that he should have expected such a reaction from that kind of revelation. That a site-wide containment breach was due to one of the O5 allowing it to happen. 

However, David doesn’t whirl around to demand more information. Doesn’t argue over why such a system was in place. The senior researcher’s attention locked onto the open doorway directly to their left. 

“There’s an SCP in that room.” 

...how does David know? Why is he acting so calm? It was said in such a nonchalant way Fritz has no time to process what it really means until James is already entering a room that was strictly meant for storing files and equipment and opening the next door.

Instead of revealing a small broom closet, there is an entire hallway identical to the one they stand in except for a closed brown door patiently waiting to be opened on the opposite side. 

“The repeating one moved?” David demands, the redhead too scared and stunned too protest being pushed behind the taller and further away from possibly getting locked in another dimension with no clear way out. 

James doesn’t respond as he closes the door, reaches into his belt, and attaches a small round metal plate to it. One with the Foundation’s symbol engraved on it, marking the door as the entrance to an anomaly. 

“It did.” The officer joins them back into the hallway as he looks back the direction they came to the direction they are going. “We need to move with a little more caution. And absolutely no closed in staircases.”

This is worse than they previously thought. Fritz assumed that while the doors to the cells opened, that didn’t mean any extra equipment was deactivated as well, meaning certain lights and emitters should still be functioning properly to hold certain things in place. This means everything has been turned off and anomalies that are better described as nothing more than a presence rather than a physical being can just move without a single warning. 

David glances down at the teenager by his side. “I can only sense SCP’s within a short radiance.” 

“Then I suggest we check corners before turning them.” 

Fritz doesn’t try to ask what they mean. He is all too aware this is getting worse by the minute. If he starts demanding answers now then he’ll be putting them all in danger. And if he starts panicking that will only distract and slow them down. Right now he just needs to trust the two doing everything in their power to getting them all out safely. 

He only nods to show agreement to the new rule alongside David. Then they hear what sounds like someone running as fast as they can. 

Fritz is already being pushed in the opposite direction of where the echoing noise is originating from as James reaches for his belt. It wasn’t nearly enough time, not when a man suddenly slides across the opening of the hallway they stand. Is on his feet a second and already sprinting in their direction. 

It’s clear they hadn’t been noticed previously when he made the turn. The moment he does is the same moment Fritz realizes he’s wearing a D-Class uniform and looking more fearful than hostile. 

“Run!” 

Both James and David doesn’t hesitate to heed the man’s frantic yell. Not when the overhead light of where he had been suddenly shatters, glass and sparks falling at the same time overwhelming darkness blankets a full ten feet of the hallway. Makes it seem as if there had been nothing there in the first place. 

Fritz is almost glad as he turns to run for his life, not wanting any reason to see what is chasing them.

[aberrant-webnovel]

Chapter 5 - A Kind of Guy

Content Warning: Needle used for medical injection

Chapter 5 - A Kind of Guy

"I can't believe Auntie really broke three of your ribs just to prove a point."

Silva stood at my side, looming over me and studying my bruises.

I laid in a bed in one of the medic offices. I'd been brought here after my "final test" to get an examination for injuries. I was stripped of my shirt and helped into the bed by Silva. She never left my side after I got beat.

Time to see how the Vault Breakers take care of their own, I guess.

The one door in the room creaked open and in walked a tired man in a lab coat. Dark brown hair, tan skin, hazel sunken eyes, rough stubble, and deep laugh lines creasing his face. He held a clipboard and flipped through the sheets on it.

"Ymir Sorenson, you got off light. Heard the Chief even removed her limiter to give you a beatdown. Surprised you don't have any ruptured organs. Just minor internal bleeding and your broken ribs. Should be a quick fix."

He walked slowly to a swivel chair next to a desk in the corner of the room as he spoke. Once he sat down, he turned away from us and then pushed himself backward until the chair rolled over to the bedside. Then he swiveled to look at me.

"We'll have to give you one of our lower grade stims for a quick fix. You're supposed to start training in a few days and this won't heal naturally in time if we give you a civilian procedure. You're also not augmented so a stronger stim isn't advised. The more you integrate tech into you, the more you need."

"Heard those stims of yours just start repairing you on the inside the second you get it. That true?"

"Yeah, kinda. It's an injection of nanites, really. They're designed to mimic your blood cells, no matter your blood type, and then travel through your system to locate damaged areas. They'll then seep into those areas and start to piece back together torn tissues and repair bones as well. Should take about two days to fix you up entirely with this stim. It's tech from a Vault that we got maybe some forty years ago."

"Sounds pretty cool, really."

"Yeah, it's pretty cool."

The doctor smiled at me with a chuckle. A nice smile. Felt friendly. Warm.

Silva then asked a question.

"Um..? That's really all the damage that happened, though? Just a few ribs and some bleeding?"

"Bruising, too."

"That's not what I mean."

"Sorry. But look, this kid is tough. Last person to fight the Chief hand-to-hand was augmented and still ended up needing to go out on a stretcher. Both of his lungs got ruptured and his femur was snapped. Either she still held back or Ymir here is a monster like the rest of the Sorenson bloodline."

"Auntie Harper really did that to someone?"

"Huh? Yeah, it was routine training but a Runner got a little too excited and challenged the Chief. She hates cocky Runners so she beat him and shipped him off to my office. But wait, Auntie Harper? Who are you?"

"Oh! Sorry, I'm Silva Dirge. Varun Dirge is my father."

"Really? Varun's a good friend. I'm glad to meet his child. I'm Doctor Eugene Atom."

"Atom? So are you related to the Founder?"

"That's right. But he lived a long time ago. And my family isn't as dedicated to the Vault Breakers as both of your families. I'm just a D-Ranker in the Medic Corp."

"Even still, it's nice to meet you, Doctor."

"Likewise."

Eugene turned to look over my bruising and then address me.

"I'm sure you want to get fixed up sooner rather than later. I'll prepare the stim and then return. Sit tight for a bit, yeah?"

He stood up and slowly sauntered out of the room, the door creaking as it shut behind him. Someone should replace the hinges.

"So, you're a C-Ranker then?

"That's what Auntie said. Still gotta put it in writing somewhere, I think. I actually have no idea what to do after this."

"You're the first in history, you know."

"That's right."

"Don't let it get to your head."

"I won't."

"I know you won't. You're not that kind of guy."

"Oh yeah, what kind of guy am I?"

Silva pulled the swivel chair over to the bedside and sat next to me. I saw her grow a warm smile as she looked at me.

"You're the type of guy who always thinks he's not doing good enough, but really you're doing a lot better than everyone else. You just do things better that others don't think about. You're better at paying attention, understanding other people, and lots of stuff. Not to say you fall behind everywhere else, either. You might be average at doing a lot of things, but that should be good enough.

You're also the type of guy to spend an extra three years studying to get into the Vault Breakers because you thought you couldn't do it at the age your dad did. Everyone knew you'd make it in once you tried, but instead you showed up more prepared than any civilian ever has been for the testing."

"Hey was that teasing?"

"A bit. But you still did that. And it's something I'm proud of you for."

"Says the Amazing Silva. When did you start training enough to handle that test in the pool? I know we were both beaten up by those waves, but you really pulled through better than I thought you would."

"A year ago, maybe. Auntie Harper started training me a bit. Nothing too serious since I didn't want to fight once I enlisted. But she still thought I would need another year of training. I snuck out to enlist with you once I heard you were going to give it a shot today. I thought I'd have a decent chance if we went together."

"I feel like having you here for this was what I needed, too. You always pull through for me, Silva. I rely on you a lot."

"Exactly."

The door creaked open again and in walked Eugene. Silva started to stand up from the chair, but the doctor gestured to her and stay.

"No need to rise for me. I'm going stand up while treating the patient, anyway."

I laughed a little bit at his mild joke, but my body felt a sharp pain spread rapidly from my chest. I coughed twice, which didn't help the pain, but then calmed myself.

"Whoa now, don't do anything to hurt yourself. I've got the stim here. I went over your data that we got in your testing and cleared you of any risk with this treatment. After I give this to you, I'll need to keep you here and examine your reaction just to be sure. Give it twenty minutes, then I'll send you home. Most of the repairs occur while you sleep so just get a bunch of rest and drink water at home. Sound good to you?"

"Sounds great, Doc. I'll be sure to take it easy."

Eugene approached the bedside and started to examine my arm. He gripped it and started tapping around with his free hand. He was looking for a vein. Then I saw him pull out a silver container, about the size of a cigarette case. He opened it, removed a short plastic cylinder, and looked at it closely. I didn't know what he was checking, but as long as I was safer because of it, then keep doing what your doing Doc!

"Alright, this here is the stim I'm gonna use. You're gonna feel a pinch once I inject it."

Eugene pulled off a cap from the injector to reveal a small needle. He prepared my vein to receive the injection. Then I felt the pinch.

A half-second of pain and then nothing. I watched the injector drain of fluid. It wasn't much at all. Will it really be enough?

"Okay. We're all done."

Eugene removed the needle and swabbed the spot with alcohol. A small bandage was placed on it right away.

"I'll be finishing some paperwork at my desk. If there's no issues in the next twenty minutes, come see me and I'll just have you sign out of treatment. All costs are totally covered for Vault Breakers, by the way."

"Thanks, Doc."

"Silva, you can keep the seat for now. I've got another chair in here somewhere."

With that, I watched him walk over to his desk area and pulled a foldable metal chair out from behind a cabinet. Can't be comfortable, but I guess he's a really nice guy for choosing that seat over his normal desk chair right now.

"Hey, Silva. When are you supposed to get your results?"

"Oh? I didn't tell you, I guess. Commander Vasquez let me know that I've been evaluated as an E-Ranker. I'm going into the R&D corp."

"Yeah? That's great! We'll have to celebrate once I heal up."

"Oh that sounds great. You and Auntie Del should come over for dinner."

I talked with Silva for a bit about this and that. Some things we haven't been able to catch up about yet. We see each other frequently, but we both have our own lives still. We both study all the time. Both of us because of our passions. That becomes a lot of what we talk about.

Twenty minutes went by in a flash. I didn't feel any weird side effects from the stim at all. Moving around still hurt. It was obvious that I wasn't going to have fully repaired ribs in twenty minutes. But something surprised me.

All the bruising on my body had disappeared. I didn't see anything wrong with me on a surface level. This stim stuff is crazy!

Silva helped me up from the bed and over to the desk. Walking was actually pretty awful.

"Hang on."

Silva left my side and went out of the office. She came back pretty quickly, dragging a wheelchair.

"Don't push it. For today, I'll help."

"Y'know, that sounds like a good idea."

I waited for Silva to bring the chair over and I sat down. I got my feet up on the rests just fine and sat in the most comfortable way I could fit.

The chair wasn't the best seat. It was a general use one that the Medic corps provides for patients. Still, it beat walking home with broken ribs.

Silva pushed the chair and walked us over to the desk. There I saw Eugene scribbling through various forms on his desk. He didn't look up at us right away.

"No issues since you took the stim, I take it?"

"Nothing. My bruising is gone already, though. Is that normal?"

"Not normal. Let me see you."

Eugene was seemingly shocked by my answer. He shot his head and looked over at me. I still hadn't put my shirt back on. Figured he might wanna see the bruising, too.

With a few invasive pokes and prods, he checked over my torso and didn't find a single bruise. He tested some of the areas that he remembered were especially dark with more pokes.

"No pain in these areas?"

"Well when you poke me a bunch, my ribs still hurt. Other than that, I don't feel the bruising."

Eugene sat back on his metal folding chair and closed his eyes. He hung his head back and remained silent for about a minute.

"Come back once you're fully recovered. Even if that's before your training day."

"Something wrong, doc?"

Eugene lowered his head back down and looked me in the eyes.

"I don't know yet. Bruising should have gone away after a few hours. I was expecting it to take until the evening. Especially with how badly you were beaten. I need to see about running some tests. I'm gonna be running this through the Chief directly."

"Well, uh, yeah. I can be here once I'm healed. You sure I'm fine to leave?"

"Can't hold a patient for healing fast. Plus you should get going home, yeah? I'm sure you need to tell your family about today."

"Sure thing, Doc. Thanks for taking care of me so far."

"It's what I do. Oh, and please sign over here."

I was handed a clipboard with a blank sign-out sheet. I filled in my name and the time of my departure.

Silva had walked away for a moment and came back with my shirt. I slipped it on with some discomfort, but easily enough. We both said a goodbye to Eugene before Silva wheeled me out of the office and into the hall.

We chatted while she walked us both through the Medic corps building. She took us towards a connecting hall to the main building.

This place is really built like a bit of a maze, but most things are pretty easy to find if you familiarize yourself with the layout. It's almost like this place was designed with a Vault layout in mind. Keeps the Runners and Scouts on their toes.

Silva has been here plenty of times with Uncle Varun. She always told me that they'd hide away in one of the labs and look at crazy things that were being researched. She never met people since Varun was breaking so many rules by doing that. Silva had no problems telling me all about it. We kept all of each others secrets.

Finally we arrived at the main building. We left out the entrance together. Time to go home.

[mantisgodsdomain]

Saw this and thought of Marigold.

https://www.tumblr.com/apuff/724225345127071744/that-poor-insurance-salesman-had-no-idea-what-was?source=share

Anyway, here’s a related question, how does Marigold choose her victims?

We've kinda outlined this before, we think, but it's a mix of convenience, cover, and what she needs to test. Marigold's test subjects tend to be more or less grabbed off the street, or recruited via job posting, if she has the spare change and someone to route it through. Standard, experimental transmutation tends to be quick and messy - the idea of most of these transmutations is to work with properties of new formulas and iron out any kinks before actually putting them up on the market, and ironing out the issues that lead to transmutation failure is part of the point, here.

Initial trials will spread a wide net, and then further trials will narrow down the issue - going for individuals within a specific range of species, for example, until all the quirks are worked out. The alchemical properties of an individual tend to vary, even within a species, so it can be very valuable to figure out if something failed because of the ingredients, or simply because of the nature of who you're trying to transform.

Complicating all this, of course, is cover - you can't just grab people off the street without drawing attention, and trying not to draw attention is something that Marigold's had to practice quite a bit. Visible people with access to resources and people who care about them spur man hunts - but bugs who are already likely to disappear are easy to simply grab.

Bugs with high-risk jobs or bugs who have already been "disappeared" for her are easy demographics to go after, though the latter is usually only something she runs into on jobs. If an adventurer goes off to Snakemouth Den and never returns, and a few days later a monster turns up gnawing on the handle of their weapon, it's pretty obvious what happened.

Besides that, a handful of antiquated laws in the Termite Kingdom make it fairly easy to pick up discarded arena fodder with a go-between. The downside of this, of course, is that it's expensive, and hirebugs aren't always entirely trustworthy - and bugs bred for the arena are generally divorced enough from your average awakened bug that the data isn't too useful for field use. Lab moths are still useful for rough drafts of formulas, before they've gotten far enough along to use on actual bugs.

For jobs, it's both easier and harder - when you're being hired to turn one thing into another, you really only need to test one species, and matching a reliable transformation with whatever properties the client wants means that you can tailor-make the formula, minimizing the chance of failure to near-nonexistence.

That said, it isn't always perfect - though clothes are a rare enough luxury in Bugaria that it doesn't turn up often, having something in the way of a transmutation can easily lead to undesirable results - if your chest's swelling to twice the size, you do not want any armor restricting it.

Prosthetics, surgically imbedded aids, and other such things can easily cause failure, especially if there's enough charmcraft in them to interact with the transforming enchantment. Tinkering with the base enchantment can negate most of the negative side effects, but the big trouble comes when a client doesn't consider it enough of a point to mention - full physical description is a necessity, especially on jobs where she won't be physically present to watch the transmutation.

With some spells, any garments or implanted aids can be twisted with the spell, but this tends to be both a bit difficult and unreliable - if something absolutely must be used in a transmutation, it's far easier to simply turn the object integrated into a charm, allowing for the fusion and the transmutation into a single step rather than adding the fiddly work of grabbing an object external to the charm's actual subject.

We might be getting a bit off-topic by now but - yeah, it's either whoever she's hired to transmute, whoever's convenient, or whoever's convenient within a certain demographic.

[kichimiangra]

Another Nannerverse question: what is Specter's backstory for this continuity? You mentioned that Specter was created artificially, which suggests the Playstation Move version, but he also clearly starred as Specter the Cute Monkey in his showbiz days. What is the timeline for him?

For the Nannersverse the games that are excluded from it's canon are the Playstation Move game, Pumped and Primed, and Million Monkeys.

Trying to avoid writing a whole essay is hard when your long winded and have no idea where the actual BEGINNING of Specter's back story is due to time travel shenanigans. If I had to turn it into a bullet list the short version would be

-The Professor wanted to work on his passion project time machine, but inventing costs money. He picks up financial backers from both the Monkey Park and a third party government organization and cuts costs by doing a single project that can be pitched to both parties.

-For the Monkey Park it was the Peak Point Project (Cooler, more trainable, friendly and smarter performer apes via a helmet) and for the Third Party it was Project Specter (Expendable Ape Soldiers). Specter was the genetic frankensteined result, being the only sample in hundreds of thousands to actually form into a living breathing creature.

-Borrowing from the anime; Specter spent his earliest years with the Professor and Natalie, formed a close connection to his human caretakers, and already being predisposed to higher intelligence than an average ape he showed promise for the Peak Point Project.

-The first time he's exposed to an early test Pipo Helmet prototype his (unknown to the Professor at the time) already existing psychic abilities are amplified on less than 15% power to the helmet, along with his brain chemicals going berserk causing a him to go ape on the lab and wreck a lot of equipment, including the test helmet and it's related machinery (The damage later causing the Dr.Tomoki accident). Even without the Psychic powers, Specter would be viewed as too unstable for the Peak Point Project and is deemed a failure there. Realizing the third party would be interested in the Psychic aspect of Specter and fearing the Ape/Monkey hybrid being potentially used as a weapon after they'd gotten attached, the Professor scrubs all data about Project Specter.

-When having to show the results of his work to the backers Specter is displayed as a failure for both projects, but a "Really Cool Monkey" none the less. The Government cell backer drops out after learning that attempting to clone Specter for more research isn't working (The DNA won't bond), and being a Hybrid makes him sterile, so the only way to make more to continue research would be repeating making themm from scratch and too costly for such a low success rate. The Monkey Park backer is disappointing that the whole "Monkey smart helmet" thing didn't work, but agree that Specter is a really cool monkey designed to be very appealing to humans with his large eyes, white sclera, flat face, upright posture and unique coloring. Having technically paid for him, the park takes ownership of Specter and the Professor hopes Specter can live a normal ape life at the park. The Professor begins working mostly for the park to keep funding his time station project, making toys, helping with attractions, and occasionally designing new pants.

-Specter is left at the park with the trainer who treats the young ape like family (As far as the Park will let him) and trains him to juggle. Specter picks it up quickly being smart and quick learning already and between that and his appealing design becomes a popular act at the park, which he loves the human attention. He has trouble communicating with the other Apes from his Exclusively human upbringing at that point but makes a few select friends regardless. Professor and Natalie would come to visit early on, which would cause Specter to misbehave as he'd rather be with his "Family" than perform and the park politely asks them to refrain from returning in any frequency, causing abandonment issues to start festering.

-The Professor decided to continue the Peak Point Helmet project, and with a new theory for working efficiently he takes an unfinished prototype to the park to pitch his idea: prolonged exposure to the helmet during developmental years to create a better resulting intelligent ape. The Professor's idea is approved and he is given a baby chimp for the experiment (That would later be known as Pipotchi)and also decides to repeat the Kellog's Nature vs Nurture ape experiment by giving the baby to a family of close friends to raise like their own (Jimmy's family. Also explaining the connection between Spike and the Professor) to create the "Smart friendly and biddable ape" the park was looking for.

-Seeing the Professor and Natalie in the crowd, Specter sneaks out of the trainers sight and follows them, stealing the prototype helmet thinking it will get him some attention. They don't notice it missing and Specter witnesses them leave with Pipotchi, still feeling abandoned again but not quite able to process those feelings yet. He hides the helmet in his room.

-Eventually he remembers the helmet again and puts it on, giving him a full dose of the prototypes amplification. It's upsetting at first but now being more sapiently aware he starts channeling his unstable emotions into resentment towards humans as he projects his issues outward and spends weeks secretly tearing apart pieces of park rides to recreate the pipo helmet copies. After a few weeks of doing so he learns via an interview on a television at the park that the Prof.'s passion project is finished and ready to start it's testing phase, so escapes with around a dozen apes he gave helmets to and beelines it for the Professors lab, starting the plot of AE1.

-The Specter side of AE1 is while Spike spends about a weekend traversing time and catching apes, Specter spends around 4 months retrieving apes from the park, outfitting them with helmets, and setting up infrastructure that still exists in the present, explaining how he can get a helmet back and within hours have moon bases and factories everywhere. He eventually finds Jake poking around a base and imprisons him, being a little information sponge he picks up how to speak human off of Jake (He could understand it before, just not Speak it with any level of fluency) and accidentally learns that under the right conditions can brainwash them with his psychic powers. He uses the now brainwashed Jake as his taskmaster, second in command, and companion to fill the void he has for human attention. He collects the Monkey Park's info on his creation realizing there was another backer, wanting to know more about this "Project Specter" but with the data scrubbed and the Prof refusing to tell him he mostly drops it. At some point behind the scenes he reunites with Monkey White (Who is the genetic donor for his Macaque dna) and starts the early stages of his Vita-z Banana experiment, hand picking who would later become the Ukki 5/Freaky Monkey 5.

-Piposaru 2001 happens between catching Specter and Returning him and the apes to the park, as the park re-renovates "Specter land" back into the "Monkey Park". His helmet isn't initially removed as he just chills around the lab staying out of arms reach of anyone who could take it from him, until the "Pants incident" happens.

-The Specter side of AE2 is just him chilling like a villain, but with an extra special obsession over Pipotchi, recognizing him as the "Successful" subject for the Peak Point Project were Specter was viewed as a "Failure" so there's jealousy and resentment there. Plus Pipotchi was given to a human family while Specter was left at the park.

-The Specter side of AE3 is Tomoki tracks Specter down to pitch his "Double Paradise" plan, which Tomoki is mostly using Specter for his revenge on humanity. Specter likes the idea of the plan and does literally zero research on what cutting a planet in half will do, trusting Tomoki who is once again being used to fill the void for human attention and Tomoki knows it, recognizing Specter from before his accident when he worked with the Prof. and Aki on the helmet project.

-Mesal Gear Solid is psuedo canon, in that the Professor inevitably created Pipo Snake, arguable success to "Project Specter" and another reason for Specter to grit his teeth at being a "failure", Though he doesn't learn about Pipo Snake existing for a few more years.

-Saru Saru Big Mission happens. Specters side is mostly just that alongside shrinking the entire human populace he intends to keep Spike and Natalie to himself, having to him and unknown interest in Spike being "The one that got away" and that Natalie is someone who was genuinely good to him, Once again filling his need for human relationships.

-a few years pass and Specter and the Ukki 5 go to ransack an old abandoned factory that was left behind for stuff, including finding his old stolen prototype of the Pipohelmet from AE1. They're ambushed by a group called the Viper's Nest and only Specter gets away, losing the Ukki 5. 6 months later he kidnaps Spike to brainwash and use to retrieve the Ukki 5 and the story begins.

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That was long... and only touching what was directly related to Specter. I put more work into the narrative than any canon ape escape game.