#the florence nightingale effect

[brainyxbat]

Florence Nightingale

“The Florence Nightingale effect is a trope where a caregiver falls in love with their patient, even if very little communication or contact takes place outside of basic care.” - Wikipedia

Alternative title: Dreams

(Pr’y not my best, but bear with me. 😂 Turned out much longer than I anticipated.)

-

Jubei and Mankey were on a roll during training with his new partner. Not a single mistake! It felt good, considering his failure with Jessie still stuck with him to this day. Or her failure with him, more like.

Venus Wisteria may be more... intimidating, for lack of a better word, but for someone who preferred to work alone, she seemed to have a better grasp on the concept of loyalty, and hasn’t abandoned him yet. He’s lasted longer with her than with Jessie; after two failures, he hated to be switched over again. Third time’s the charm, right?

A scream of pain, along with a sickening crunch, stopped him and Mankey dead in their tracks after a high jump. Turns out, Venus landed wrongly on her right leg; very wrongly. He rushed over, Mankey close behind, as his normally tough and stoic partner laid on the ground, tears of agony threatening to fall from her squinting eyes. Her trusty, loyal Zubat was helplessly flying around her, frantic.

When he asked the eternally stupid question, “Are you okay?”, her response was merely a pained head shake, instead of a sarcastic quip she was known for. He knew then that it was bad.

He shouted for Sergeant Viper, held her closely while having her focus on him instead of the pain, and before long, the medic team were wheeling her away on a gurney.

He snapped himself out of his trance, as Viper approached him in the waiting room. It had been a few days since she was admitted in, but it felt much longer to him. The dorm had an empty void without her; and her Zubat was sad without its master. Visits weren’t allowed, so they couldn’t even see her. The doctor told him her ankle AND lower leg had broken from her botched landing, and would require operating to repair it. The thought of her having surgery, as helpful as it was, still made him shudder in discomfort. “Jubei, as you know, Ms. Wisteria is scheduled to leave the infirmary, and return to your dorm today.”

“Yes, sir. She went through her surgery well?”

“According to the doctors, she did, but will need to keep off her feet in your dorm, for at least six weeks.” All the teams each had a dorm room, with separate bedrooms (thank goodness! no awkwardness there), and one kitchen, living room, and bathroom. And a balcony! “I trust you’ll take good care of her until she’s well enough to return to training.”

“Uh, y-yes sir, I will.”

Viper let a little smirk grow, sensing he felt nervous. “Ah, she’s not that scary. Just a bit of a firecracker; you can handle it.”

“Thanks for the confidence boost, sir. I’ll make sure she’s comfortable.”

Just then, a doctor escorted the patient out of her infirmary room, with her in a wheelchair looking... like her. Broody, but more tired; and back in her purple training uniform. Jubei felt a grin of amusement grow at her thick cast; it was in her favorite color. “Black, huh?”

“Yeah,” She shrugged with a small grin, “If I’m going to be injured and bedridden, I may as well have a say in my cast color, right?”

“I suppose,” He smirked. Judging by the white-clad woman’s composure, it seemed the Goth scared her into using black for her cast. “It suits you.”

“Thanks.”

The doctor turned to Jubei after pulling her face mask down to her chin. “You’ll be her caretaker, right?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

She gave him a paper bag containing a bottle of small, white pills. “Make sure she takes these, two a day at most, every four to six hours every day. These will last you three weeks; by then, she shouldn’t need them.”

“Thanks; will do.”

“If she still feels pain afterwards, over-the-counter ibuprofen will do the trick.”

“Got it.”

Venus smirked up at them, cheek in palm. “Guys, I’m right here, and not a child; I can just be told this stuff myself.”

The nurse snickered, then turned her attention back to him, as he stifled a grin. She was back. “Keep her out of trouble. And make sure she doesn’t cause any more damage to her ankle, or lower leg; she’s a feisty one.”

“Trust me, I know,” He chuckled, receiving an eye roll from the patient.

Once Venus signed the papers, Jubei took charge of the wheelchair, and led his petite partner back to their dorm, with Viper close behind. On the way, she was greeted with get-well wishes, to which she responded with tired gratitude; she just wanted to be in her own bed already. Her cheeks blushed red when Butch, in particular, approached her after having Jubei stop. “Hope you heal up good, Venus. See you in a few weeks.”

“Thanks; see you.”

~~~

Before long, they were back in their dorm. After reassuring Viper that he’ll take care of her, Jubei entered Venus’ bedroom with her in tow. He had a brief glance around while piling extra pillows at one side of the foot of her bed with Mankey’s help. There was a sling, but she was stubbornly wary of it, so pillows instead; he hoped she would soon come around, and realize the sling would be better. Since they first teamed up, he hadn’t been in her room much, out of respect for her privacy; and a bit of fear as well. This was the first time he had a good look, and frankly, in his opinion, it suited her well; Goth decor of many kinds was all over the room, from random trinkets and portraits to the window curtains, the walls were the same color as the rest of the dorms (painting them was prohibited), and her bed had dark floral sheets, in a nice navy blue. A dartboard was on the wall across from the bed, strangely covered by a photo of a dominantly green-haired family, sans one person trimmed out, and stabbed with darts.

“Um, Jubei?” Her voice brought him back to reality; she was suddenly leaning into him for support, standing only on her good leg, with her arms around his neck. He blushed at the close contact; she smelled clean and sterile, like the hospital room she stayed in. “You can look around after I’m in bed,” She joked.

“Sorry, sorry.” Feeling sheepish, he helped her lay down, so she was on her back, and tenderly laid her bad leg on the pillow pile. For someone as strong as her, she was pretty light. “That good?”

She shrugged, as she pulled the covers over her upper body. “As good as it gets. Thanks; the pillows help.”

“No problem. Sorry I was distracted earlier; I’ve... never really been in your room before. At least, not long enough to get a good look.”

“It’s okay. Just don’t get comfortable; I like my privacy.”

“I understand. Uh, anything you need right now? Drink, heat pad?”

“Actually, water sounds nice,” Venus admitted, “Something to wash down my first two pills with.”

“Okay; we’ll be back.” Jubei headed straight for the kitchen with Mankey close behind. An ecstatic Zubat made a beeline for its master’s shoulder when they were alone. She giggled, and snuggled its head with hers; she definitely missed it.

As he filled a glass halfway full of cold water for his partner, Mankey discretely grabbed something else from one of the pantries. Something purchased (or possibly stolen) by the big eater of the duo.

A rare, bright smile appeared on Venus’ face when she saw a chocolate, white-frosted cupcake in each of the Pig Monkey Pokemon’s hands. “Aw,” She giggled, “Thanks, guys.” As the glass was set on the nightstand, she took the cupcake closest to her, peeled the liner down, and had a large bite. She smiled at Zubat lapping up a mouthful of frosting.

“Mankey, how come you got- oh,” Jubei laughed when it handed the other one to him, “Thanks, buddy.” He sat on the chair set by the head of her bed, and started eating. After his first bite, he turned to the family photo again. Due to the green hair, albeit different hues, they reminded him of his partner. “Hey uh, forgive me for asking, but who are those people there?”

Venus noticed where his free hand gestured to, and sighed deeply through her nose. “I... I’m not comfortable talking about them just yet. But I’ll say just this: they’re my... “family”. I cut myself out of that picture.�� 

Her air quotes around the particular word, and her hesitance, told him that they were not... ideal. “Oh, o-okay.”

“That’s all I’d rather say.”

“A-are you sure-”

“I don’t want to talk about it!” He flinched at her sudden, yet justified outburst, immediately regretting his words. She inhaled deeply, regaining her composure, as she blinked tears away. They may had been partners for a while now, but she didn’t want him to see her cry. The time she got hurt didn’t count to her.

“I, I’m sorry.” He stammered.

“It’s okay,” She almost whispered, “I’m just... not ready yet.”

“I understand. I won’t push you on it anymore,” He promised with a pat to her shoulder.

“Thanks.” They finished their cupcakes, and he threw out the liners for her. “Um... and thanks for taking care of me.”

He shrugged modestly, returning to his seat. “It’s what partners do.”

~~~

The next few weeks were... interesting, to say the least. It was almost like clockwork; Jubei woke up, did his morning workout, got breakfast smoothies for himself and Venus, returned to find her just waking up, help her with... using the bathroom, showering, etc. He also brought their meals in her room, so they could eat together. When she was comfortable alone, he went off to train; but after a while, his sessions started growing shorter. She was gradually becoming his main priority.

When a nightmare caused her bad leg to fall off the pillow mountain, he urgently replaced it with the sling, with her reluctantly complying; to their relief, it held more securely. Tears fell that night, her pain not just physical; he hugged her firmly, rubbed her back, and stroked her long, green hair, as she cried in his chest. Not going into details, she told him about her family’s abuse, and her fear that they would find and kill her. He assured her that that’ll never happen; to make her smile, he said with the fighting skills she’s acquiring, she could send them running in seconds. He had to admit, after hearing about the horror she went through with them, he would love to see that. Hearing about the apparent, undeserved demise of an innocent Bulbasaur she took in made him feel sick; he couldn’t process what possessed them to even think of committing the heinous act, much less going through with it.

Those things weren’t even the most interesting part, though. Shortly after she returned to the dorm to recover, Jubei started feeling weird around Venus, almost like he was... falling for her. He longed to be close to her, for more than to help her as she recovered. During their hug, he never wanted to let her go. Maybe it was because she was being less sarcastic, and more sweet? Perhaps, but she had some moments before her injury. At that same time, without thinking, he pressed a comforting kiss to the top of her head, but she didn’t react negatively. If anything, it appeared to soothe her. And she seemed to lean into his hand when he wiped her tears away.

In the gym one day, he saw Butch swinging away at a punching bag, and felt something he hardly felt for anyone, much less someone he barely knew: resentment. But why? All he knew about Butch was that he was the object of Venus’ affections.

Maybe that was his reason? But he couldn’t fall in love with her! She was his friend, and his training partner; nothing else. He didn’t stand a chance with her; she was better off with Butch.

Despite that, he had dreams plaguing his mind every night; wonderful dreams, filled with romance. One in particular had them running barefoot in a field of black and white Heddewigii Dianthus flowers, with Venus wearing a short, black celestial romper, and himself in a blue button-up that matched his eyes, and nice black pants. They sat closely together in a clearing to catch their breath, while Mankey and Zubat were under mingling a tree close by; he plucked a flower from the ground, and tenderly tucked it by the stem behind her left ear. Keeping his gentle hand on her cheek, he leaned in, feeling her own small hands lock together behind his neck, and they shared a kiss. Her purple lip gloss tasted like sweet Pamtre Berries; his favorite. He woke up, feeling a shot of disappointment, after they pulled away.

Other dreams were less specific, but the romance was still there. Kisses were exchanged, some not on the lips, and at some points, they snuggled in her bed. They watched her shows revolving around haunted locations, and he didn’t feel any fear. He was even getting invested in the spooky programs.

During one shower, he assumed she forgot that he was nearby, or maybe getting more comfortable with his near-constant presence, because he heard her singing to herself. She had such a beautiful voice.

Mankey, being a smart Pokemon, was able to detect those feelings, and in its own way, gave him good-natured ribbings. In the kitchen, he stifled a laugh when it formed a heart with its hands. “Mankey, stop it, she’s going to hear us,” He whispered.

In the real world, Venus was completely oblivious to his newfound feelings for her. And despite its lack of eyes, Zubat would practically stare daggers at him in an overprotective manner, but it went unnoticed by its master.

When she was getting suspicious at his unusual behavior, he quickly made the claim that he was whipped from training; she bought it, but he mentally cursed himself for his nervous tone. She just might catch on, and request to switch partners out of discomfort. And he didn’t want that to happen; he valued their partnership more than anything, and their friendship.

~~~

At the halfway point of her bedrest, he noticed she was getting a small case of cabin fever. He didn’t blame her; being cooped up in one place for three weeks can get to someone. Especially someone known to have a short temper. They occasionally went out on the balcony, but it didn’t feel like enough.

“You okay?” Jubei asked her one day when he noticed she was laying in bed, arms folded, and wearing pajamas, with her default bored expression.

“Yeah, I’m fine, Ju.” Venus replied quietly.

“Are you s-”

“I SAID I’M FINE!” She shouted, startling him, Mankey, and Zubat. Like after her last outburst, she settled herself with a deep breath. “S-sorry.” She laid back on her pile of pillows in a huff; almost reaching over, Jubei had to refrain from brushing her short, soft bangs from her forehead. “It’s just, I’ve been here in the dorm for, I dunno, forever, it seems.”

“You’re okay. I understand; hey, maybe we can go around the academy?” He offered, “A little fresh air will do you some good; and it seems nice out.”

She pondered the idea for a moment, then nodded. “I’d like that; thanks.”

“No problem, partner.” After she changed into a blue/black plaid skirt-crop top combo, with his assistance, and tied her hair in a high wrap ponytail, he helped her into the wheelchair. As Zubat fluttered over to perch on her shoulder, Jubei couldn’t help but stare, and let his mind wander; she sure had a nice body under her training uniform. He blinked his dark blue eyes to snap himself out of it; he had still been trying to push away his forbidden feelings for her, with little success. The urge to hold her, stroke her hair, and kiss her was still lingering. He was just glad she wore a bra with her sleepwear, or he would have a stroke.

After helping her left foot into a simple black sneaker, he began their trek around the academy, Mankey following close behind.

That day went swimmingly for the both of them. Cassidy and Wendy borrowed her for a moment in the former’s dorm to pamper her, signing/drawing on her cast, and painting her nails black. Jubei and Mankey, meanwhile, spent extra time at the gym to make up for lost time dedicated to keeping Venus company.

As he ran on a treadmill, one not destroyed by Jessie and Cassidy trying to one-up each other, he was approached by Viper. “Jubei, may I have a word with you?”

“Uh, yeah, sure, yes sir,” He kept jogging, as he spoke. “What’s going on?”

“I noticed you’ve spent more time with Ms. Wisteria lately, and less time training.” Jubei saw the tiniest smirk on the sergeant’s face. “Is she still recovering well?”

“Yes sir, she is.”

“I’m glad to hear it.”

“And about the extra time... sh-she just gets lonely.” They both knew that that was Tauros-crap. Venus Wisteria liked her alone time, and everyone knew it; even though she seemed to enjoy his company lately.

“I see. Will you be telling her how you feel about her before her bedrest ends?”

“Wha- AAH!” Jubei was caught off guard by his sudden question, causing a misstep; the treadmill sent him flying back, and into the wall. Everyone in the room watched in concern, but luckily, he wasn’t injured like Venus; just a little bruised. “Ow.” He stumbled back on his feet, and rubbed his sore back. He smiled when Mankey rushed over from the punching bag it was wailing on earlier. “I’m alright, buddy.” Nonetheless, it followed him when he returned to the treadmill, which was now turned off, and stayed by his side. “Sir, wh-what’re you talking about?”

Viper’s all-knowing smile grew more visible. “I’ve seen the look on your face when her name is brought up; and everyone here knows she loves her moments of solitude. When did you start feeling this way?”

No denying it now. Viper was too smart to fall for any lies. “Shortly after her bedrest started,” He replied, “I don’t even know how; it was kind of sudden.” 

He shared a surprisingly therapeutic heart-to-heart with the sergeant, opening up with his dreams about them as a couple, helping her through the times her vulnerability showed, and overall never wanting to leave her side. Even how he didn’t see himself having a chance at being her significant other. Viper assured him that his feelings are temporary, and that after she's back on her feet, everything will revert to normal.

Jubei went back to the girls to retrieve Venus, so they could grab some lunch in the cafeteria. He complimented the black nail polish she now sported, and she told him that the mani-pedi with Cassidy and Wendy was soothing... for the most part. He stifled a laugh at the last part, knowing very well from a past training exercise of endurance that, despite her toughness, and a huge majority of her fashion choices, she’s very ticklish. It embarrassed her to no end, but he thought it was adorable. She had a cute laugh.

They sat at a small table with their food, across from each other, and talked more about their day. When she had a drop of mustard on the corner of her lip from her cheeseburger, he had the urge to reach over and brush it off, but kept back. She took care of it herself, and it was strangely arousing how it was swiped off, and her small lips cleaned the condiment off her finger. 

Oh, how he wanted to kiss her.

“Uh, h-how’s your lunch?” He stammered after a bite of mac-n-cheese.

“Delicious,” She replied, “Yours?”

“It’s good too.”

“So, you said you talked to Sergeant Viper, huh? I didn’t think he was one for chit-chat.”

“Yeah, in the gym. He was asking me why I’ve been attending training less lately, and uh, I told him that it’s so you won’t be lonely.”

A small smile grew on her face. “You’ve been playing hooky to be with me more? That’s sweet. What, do you have a crush on me, or something?” She innocently joked.

Jubei’s eyes bugged out, and he nearly choked on his soda in surprise, spitting it out right back in the cup through the straw. Venus flinched back, eyebrows raised up in concern, and set her burger down on the paper wrapper, as he coughed in his elbow to recover. Other trainees stared their way, but were paid no mind to. “Did I strike a nerve there?”

“Oh, no, no, I’m fine. That just... caught me off guard.”

“I noticed,” She smirked, “Sorry.”

“It’s cool.”

The rest of their meal went more peacefully, with less surprises. Until the end, that is. “Uh, Ju, you got a little something there.” Venus brought up, gesturing to her face.

“Huh?” He felt around his mouth.

“Here, I got it.” She licked her thumb, leaned forward, and wiped the small droplet of cheese sauce off his cheek. He was glad to still be sitting, because his knees felt weak at her gentle touch. Not at all what her training demeanor usually implied. “There we go.”

He could only blink, as his cheeks turned a deep red, and his legs were completely numb. “Th-th-thanks.” Once his ability to walk returned, he escorted her out. 

They followed the shaded sidewalk outside back to the dormitory, when Venus leaning forward while facing the outside world caught his attention, and made him stop. “You okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. I’m admiring the lovely day.” 

Jubei leaned over to look past the awning; the dark, cloudy sky indicated that a storm could very well roll in at any second. “Uh... y-yeah.” He didn’t know why he was surprised; for as long as he'd known Venus, he knew she enjoyed darkness. Like an Addams. He always found that interesting about her.

“When we get to the dorm... can we go on the balcony to admire it from there?”

“Sure,” He nodded, “But the second a raindrop falls on you, we’re going back inside, no questions asked.”

“Deal.”

They did as she wanted, and watched the dark clouds roll by, him in one of the filigree chairs by a matching round table, and her in the wheelchair. He blushed at her smile; she looked so happy and relaxed. Going out did her good, in his opinion; her grumpiness had ceased. And he had to admit, watching the clouds roll by was kind of soothing; even if he preferred white on blue over grey on, well, lighter grey. But to each his own, right? As she sipped her fountain soda, her eyes never tore away from the gloomy sight.

Without thinking, he laid one arm over her shoulders. She looked over at his hand, more in surprise than anything else, but he was startled nonetheless. “S-sorry,” He quickly drew it back, but her small smile in his direction calmed his heart just a bit.

After a few minutes, rain started to fall, so he quickly went back inside with her before they could get soaked. By the time it let up somewhat, it was almost dinnertime, so he got their meals from the noodle bar in the area, and brought it to the dorm. “Did you miss me?” He joked, pulling his damp umbrella shut.

She smirked in his direction from watching the rain. “A little,” She replied with sincerity, “You got my favorite?”

“Sure did; udon with some shrimp in it, just how you like it!”

She smiled when he set the plate in her lap. “Thanks, Ju.” When he sat next to her, they started eating. Only a minute later, he noticed her struggle with her chopsticks, as if she had never use them in her life. His newly acquired quick reflexes came to the rescue when one shrimp attempted an escape to the floor. “Th-thanks,” She stammered when he returned it to her plate.

“Sorry, I forgot a fork for yours. Have you ever used chopsticks before?”

She shook her head, embarrassment evident in her face. “N-no. I never learned; it’s why I always went with a fork at the noodle bar.”

“Ah. Here, I’ll teach you; I’ve used them since I was a kid.” He showed her how to hold the chopsticks between her fingers, trying hard to distract himself from how close they are. He even fed her one of the shrimps, to her amusement, when letting her watch him demonstrate himself. On her own, she used them to scoop up a mouthful of noodles at a slow rate; he kept her hair back out of her food, earning a quick glance of surprised gratitude, as she succeeded in her attempt. “You did it!” Jubei cheered.

“Yay me,” She giggled after swallowing, “Thanks for the lesson; I’ll practice when I can.”

“No prob.”

That night, stormy as it was, went the same as the others; Jubei dreaming that Venus is his girlfriend, and their potential life together. This time around featured a picnic in a lovely park, Mankey and Zubat enjoying themselves, and the couple feeding each other berries. This time around, Venus was in a pair of black floral duster shorts with a high waist, a black double tie-front cropped tee, a black bejeweled flower barrette, and no shoes. And like in the rest of his dreams, no cast; she was all healed, and happy. He still had the same black pants and blue button-up, and without shoes. She was seated in his lap, with her back to his chest, feeling fully relaxed. He wrapped his arms around her, leaned his head down, and they had a kiss as sweet as in the rest of his dreams.

Lightning startled him awake, but she didn’t even stir. Storms made him wary, so she let him stay in her room for the night; he had been sleeping with his upper body leaned down, folded arms on her bed by her pillow, and head rested in comfortably, when his visions took him away. Mankey, who never slept without its master in the room, was laying on the floor, face-up, limbs out.

Thankfully for his blood pressure, she wore long, high-waisted lounge pants and a cozy cropped (because it’s Venus) sweatshirt to bed, as opposed to one of her less modest nightgowns. Had she worn one of those, he would’ve lost his ability to keep his feelings for her a secret. And his ability to breathe.

As thunder rumbled, Jubei turned to Venus, who was completely unbothered by the storm. She opened up to him about how they were always comforting to her; how she would listen to thunder, and watch lightning, instead of hearing her sisters fight, or her parents... “get busy”, as she put it. The thought of her having the misfortune of hearing that as a small child, especially more than once and in her own home, made him grimace. Didn’t people have any self control? Especially around little children?

He knew it was creepy, but he couldn’t tear his eyes away from her, as she slept. Her breathing was quiet and even, with her small chest rising up and down rhythmically under her folded arms, and her hair was spread out on her pillows. Despite the noise and flashes of light, she was so peaceful, as if nothing was happening.

When his fatigue caught back up to him, he rested his head in his arms, and drifted off to a now dreamless slumber. He felt more comfort sleeping by her side, as opposed to doing so alone in his own room, whether it stormed or not.

~~~

Before long, one evening, it was time for Venus’ cast to be removed, as well as her stitches. In the infirmary room, he sat next to her on the bed, and offered his hand to her. “Here, squeeze it as hard as you need to.”

She gave him a smirk. “That’s okay, I don’t need-” The look he gave her was replied with an eye roll. “Oh, alright.” Her tiny hand slid into his bigger one, and their fingers folded together. “Thanks.”

The doctor from before smiled at them. “Your boyfriend’s pretty convincing, Ms. Wisteria.”

They shared a glance, both faces red. “Oh, w-we’re not-”

“We’re training partners,” Jubei said, “And friends.”

“Oh, my apologies. You two would make a cute couple, though.” He felt like his cheeks were on fire. “Okay, you both ready?”

“Yes, ma’am,” He replied, as Venus stayed silent with a small nod.

(TW BLOOD MENTION)

The procedure went smoothly. The patient cringed just a little, and her hand barely moved. If anything, Jubei was more affected; he could barely look, as the stitches were delicately removed, the little trickles of blood on her ivory skin worsening it for him. 

Venus noticed his discomfort, and in a rare moment (for her) of tenderness, she gently squeezed his hand with both of hers, and their gazes locked. He focused on her emerald eyes (or her one eye, not covered by her hair) instead of the procedure, and before long, it was all done. The deep green hue was easy to get lost into.

(Trigger end)

The doctor wrapped her lower leg with fresh, clean bandages after taping a gauze pad over the area. “Sorry, no black bandages.” Jubei snorted in amusement at Venus’ joking eye roll, and mild curse. She was so cute. “Okay Ms. Wisteria, you can go back to your training after two to four weeks of resting.”

“I have to be on bedrest some more?” Venus cringed a little, as with his help, she pulled her flared, black pant-leg back down. (⬅ printed with white mermaid scales, and paired with, surprise surprise, a crop top. Specifically a sleeveless black cheongsam with a high neck, and a heart cutout at the collar. Why she wore them despite her ticklishness, he’ll never know. She always looked beautiful in them, regardless.) Her shoes were simple black flip-flops; he brought the right one with them, so she wouldn’t have to be half-barefoot.

“I’m afraid so, dear; you could worsen your condition, and prolong the recovery process too.”

“Oh.”

“Aw, have I not been a good caretaker?” Jubei teased her when she pouted, making it disappear immediately, as he pulled her in with one arm.

“You have been, shut up,” She snickered with a small grin.

“We’ll do whatever you want, but as long as it doesn’t involve you walking, or using your legs.”

“Thanks, Ju.”

The doctor smiled, and glanced between them. “I know it’s not my place to ask, but are you sure you’re not a couple?” She joked.

“Yeah,” Jubei laughed, “We’re not together.” ‘I wish we were, though,’ He finished in his head. “Okay Venus, let’s get you back in your chair. Arms around my neck.” She held onto him, and he carefully lifted her like a bride off the table, and set her in the wheelchair. He could’ve sworn her head snuggled on his shoulder for the few seconds she was in his arms.

“Thanks.” She smiled when Zubat nuzzled her cheek.

“No prob. Let’s get you home.”

In her room, she was set up in her bed again, for what felt like the hundredth time. She could do it in her sleep by now if she wanted; and same for him. “There we go.”

“Yep,” She sighed, and crossed her arms, “Weeks of bedrest... again.”

He smiled sympathetically. “I know it’s tedious, V, but it’s for your health.”

“I know,” She mumbled defeatedly, her gaze staying straight ahead.

He sat next to her, and put his hand on her shoulder. “Well, I’m with you through this whole thing. I’m not letting you go through this by yourself.” She looked at him with a small smile. “Although... I do know you like your alone time, so if you ever want any, don’t hesitate to tell me. Okay?”

Venus nodded. “I will.”

“Cool. So, uh... you want to be alone right now?” He knew that was a dumb question, but he still felt it was necessary to ask. He smiled when she shook her head. “Okay.”

“I did agree to tell you,” She smirked.

“Yeah,” He chuckled, “I just figured I’d ask anyway.”

“Yeah,” She giggled, “I was just messing with you.”

“Ah. So, what do you want to do?”

“Um... watch TV?”

“Sure thing. I’ll get some water for us.”

“Soda for me actually, p-please.”

“‘Kay,” He nodded, and went to the kitchen to fetch their beverages. When he returned, she was leafing through the guide on the TV. “More ghost shows?”

“Nah, they’re not on right now.”

He smirked at her choice. “The Addams Family? I’ve never seen the movies before.”

“You’ve been missing out then, buddy. You’re in for a real treat.” Jubei found himself catching his breath from laughing throughout their time watching. She was right; he was missing out. And he hoped the sequel would be on soon. As they watched, neither of them noticed that their heads were only inches apart. He noticed the scent of her green apple shampoo and conditioner, but was too distracted to move. It was intoxicating, and it suited her.

When a few minutes passed after the movie ended, he felt a weight on his shoulder. He looked, and to his surprise, Venus had fallen asleep on him, the day’s events taking their toll on her. He wasn’t sure what to do; it’ll likely get awkward in the next morning, but on the other hand, he was already comfortable, and didn’t want to leave her. The realization that he needed to brush his teeth made the decision for him; he gingerly guided her away, and rested her head on the pillows, thankful that she always brushed hers earlier, and was a heavy sleeper. After freshening up, he returned to her bed, laid his upper body next to her pillows like before, and let himself fall asleep.

He hoped to stay close with Venus long after her bedrest comes to an end, if not forever. It would be sad if they went back to being merely acquaintances, after the bond they formed during her recovery. He knew about her family, somewhat (she hadn’t filled him in on the darker details about the patriarchs), and he knew what she liked and disliked. It would be silly to revert back to being... not close. Were they close now? He felt like they were nowadays.

~~~

The next few weeks went by at a reasonable pace. Jubei once dropped Venus off at the noodle bar at her request, so Butch could visit her after training kept him too busy, and exhausted. She wore her best, black dress for the lunch, hoping to make a good impression on her crush. “How’s your recovery going?” Butch asked her after they were at the bar.

“Um, i-it’s okay,” She replied, her cheeks pink from his presence alone, “I still feel a bit of pain, but nothing serious. Jubei has been there for me throughout the whole thing, which I’m grateful for.”

Butch jokingly smirked. “What happened to ‘I work alone’?” He did air quotes around the last three words he often heard from her.

She smirked back after a bite of shrimp Udon. “That kinda took a backseat on account of my injury, smarty-pants,” She retorted.

“Yeah, I know,” He chuckled, “I’m glad you’re not going through it by yourself. Sorry I’m not able to visit in your dorm.”

“It’s okay; I know training keeps you busy. How’s that been going?”

“Eh, same as always. Train, sweat, fall over, wash your ripe uniform after it’s over.”

She snickered. “Ah. Cassidy’s a good leader so far?”

“Definitely. Sergeant Viper even calls her a natural leader; she’s surely got the bossiness for it,” He laughed.

Venus snorted, and giggled. “Well, somebody’s gotta have it, y’know?”

“Yeah, I suppose. I bet you would be a great leader, V.”

She hid her blush with her takeout drink, and attempted to push it away with a joke. “’Cause I’m bossy?”

“N-no, I didn’t mean-”

“It’s okay, I’m joking,” She laughed, “But why do you think I would be?”

He shrugged. “I dunno. You just give off that leader vibe like Cass; like her, you’re smart, strong, and loyal.”

She smiled up at him, her cheeks now red. “Thanks. And so are you, Butch.”

“Thanks, V. And I hope I’m strong; I do all the heavy lifting!” He laughed with her.

“Flex for me.” She giggled when he did just that. “It’s like I’m having lunch with a green-haired Hercules.”

“Thanks.”

The rest of their lunch (date?) went smoothly. When Jubei went to take her back to the dorm, she was all smiles; he loved seeing her happy, though couldn’t help but wish he was the reason behind it. She had such a beautiful smile when it wasn’t full of mischief.

In her room, he set her up in bed again after she was in pajamas, and made sure she was comfortable. “So your lunch with Butch went well?”

“It did,” She nodded, then smiled dreamily, “He’s so nice to be around, and talk with.”

“Y-yeah.” He tried to push away his feelings of jealousy.

“Hopefully after I’m healed, he’ll... want to see me again.”

“Yeah, h-hopefully.”

Venus turned to him, a look of concern on her face. “Are you okay?”

“Oh, uh, y-yeah, I’m fine. Just tired from training.”

“Ah, okay.” She sipped her soda. “You oughta go to bed earlier; maybe the same time as me.”

“Yeah, maybe,” He nodded just a little, so she wouldn’t grow more suspicious.

“And take it easy in training, a bit.”

“Well, Viper wants me to uh, m-make up for lost time.”

“Ah, I see,” She nodded. He internally sighed in relief; she bought it. Although that was actually a truth, but regardless. She didn’t question it, and he was glad about that. Since it was a quiet, clear night, they went to sleep in their separate beds, Jubei dreaming about her again. 

The way her eyes lit up when he won her a giant plush Crobat on the boardwalk was a sight that made his heart skip a beat. In the evening, they rode a Ferris Wheel, where they shared a kiss at the very top.

Her mandatory resting time was coming to an inevitable close; and he secretly doubted Viper’s assurance that his feelings for her would go away that easily... if at all.

~~~

“Alright, the rope’s free!”

“Okay, lower me down!” Venus latched onto the Articuno statue around the neck once she was low enough. For almost a month now, she had been well enough to return to training, and was quite eager to do so. “You’re mine now. Alright, I’m ready! Pull!”

Jubei and Mankey began pulling them up with all the strength they could muster, managing to lift the statue off the ground. “Hold on tight!” It happened again; the rope slipped down in their hands, and the statue was dropped from a startled Venus’ hands. And like last time, it shattered on impact when it hit the ground, and the alarm started ringing.

As he watched her panic, he expected her to release herself and make a run for it on her own, just as Jessie did. But his prediction was false; the Goth scurried up the rope, untied her ankles, and rejoined him and Mankey instead! “We’re outta here!”

“Aah! Hey wait, what’re you doing?!” He exclaimed in surprise over the alarm, when he and Mankey were scooped under her arms like footballs.

“Taking you idiots with me!” She leaped down the hole, and ran for cover as fast as her legs could carry all of them, avoiding the explosion.

He yelped when the room caved in behind them. “Y-you’re not abandoning us?”

“No, we’re a team!”

The rest was a blur. ‘We’re a team!’ Her declaration echoed in his mind. Jubei barely acknowledged Viper’s lecturing about their botched test; all he could think about was how he and Mankey were still unharmed, and not left alone. Venus came back for them, just as Jessie neglected to, after his goof-up. And little did he know, she was defending him for what happened.

He’ll never forget her. And he’ll always love her.

(Look out for a bonus scene in a reblog! 😉)

-

(A/N: Hope you enjoyed! I had a cold for most of my time writing this, and it helped me get through it! And this stayed in my drafts for over a month out of fear of the reception. 😶

I’ve been playing around with the idea of Jubei being the human partner Venus lasted the longest with, accidentally discovered Florence Nightingale, and this was born. 😊)

Outfits:

Venus-

Romper: XXX

Plaid Outfit: XXX

Duster Shorts: XXX

Tied Crop Top: XXX

Flower: XXX (photo by me; it’s a Penny Blossom!)

Flare Pants: XXX

Cheongsam Crop: XXX

Dress: XXX

[agnerd-bot]

Weird idea but hear me out.

Lostbelt King Florence Nightingale that’s been pushed even further into madness than her Berserker incarnation. She has made a world where death as a concept no longer exists.

This is not a good thing.

[danaclese]

Being each others doctors is the most codependent superhero behaviour ever

Florence nightingale effect ship-fic fuel if you're into that

[wu-sisyphus-gang]

Jaune: Ruby and Weiss don’t know that I’m broken and unfixable.

Blake: You think it’s Florence nightingale effect?

Jaune: That’s…?

Blake: When nurses fall in love with their patients.

Jaune: Ah. Maybe a little then.

Blake: You underestimate their feelings for you. We all hate to see the suffering you’re going through.

Jaune: You’re a bunch of empaths one and all. Listen to me complain like I’m the one who fucking died.

Blake: You’re allowed to feel things too.

Jaune: I’m a murderer now. I don’t know how Ruby can touch me.

Blake: You didn’t murder Penny, Jaune. She chose death. You can’t keep blaming yourself for that.

Jaune: I totally fucking can.

[practically-an-x-man]

Since I was just talking about this with a friend... here's the symbolism for my various OCs' names!

At least... here are the main OCs, though I usually apply symbolism to the antagonists, secondary characters, etc. as well (I can talk about them too, but that would make this post ridiculously long)

____

Rachel "Rae" Ayla McKinney: the name Rae is used as a shortened nickname from Rachel, but on its own means "protector" - fitting, with her protective personality and ability to create impenetrable energy shields! Middle name was chosen from her grandmother's first name; the same grandmother that she inherited her mutation from. Surname was not chosen with intentional deeper meaning, just chosen for a Scottish surname. Hero name, Aegis, is a reference to Athena's mythological shield.

Robin Eleanor Cassidy: first name is both a traditionally Irish name and links back to the music- and sound-based themes within her story. Middle name is also Irish in origin, and can be seen as a variation on the name Leonore, as in the opera Fidelio. Surname wasn't chosen with deeper symbolic meaning, just to connect her to the X-Men's Cassidy family as a whole. Hero name, Aria, is a reference to her sound-based mutation and operatic background.

Madison Sarah Douglas: first name has multiple derived forms, one of which means "strength in battle", and was also chosen with nicknames in mind to symbolize the stages of her life: she goes by Maddie until she's 15, then leaves that behind once she runs to the wilderness and begins going only by her full name, then begins to adopt the nickname "Mads" as she grows comfortable with Alex. Middle name was chosen from a list of popular names for the time, intended to be simple and unassuming like Madison's parents (her mother especially) expected her to be. Surname is can be translated from Gaidhlig to mean "black stream", a symbol towards her aquatic-based mutation. Hero name, Lionfish, is a reference to the physical traits her mutation grants her, and in the earlier stages of her story can be seen as foreshadowing towards the venomous fins and more lionfish-like traits she will later develop.

Ophelia Jo Octavius: first name stems from the Shakespearean Ophelia, intended both to connect her to her literary-focused mother and to foreshadow the tragedy she will experience throughout her life (and at one point, foreshadows her multiversal variant that genuinely goes mad and later dies to her own actions). Middle name is also literary, stemming from Little Women; however, her middle name is only Jo, not the full Josephine, meant to symbolism Ophelia standing apart from expectations. Surname is not chosen with deeper meaning, just to tie her into the canon Octavius family, but the alliteration of her first and last name is meant to be "superhero-like" and further connect her to her father. Hero name, Argonaut, represents both Jason's mythological Argo and a species of pelagic octopus.

Giovanna "Gia" Isabelle Pantazis: First name, in both its full and shortened forms, translates to "God is gracious", symbolizing Gia's faith and feeling that her surviving HYDRA was an act of God's will. Middle name also holds faith-based translations to further this symbolism. Surname is derived from the Greek blessing "live forever!", representing how having her life force bound to her clover makes her effectively immortal (at least in certain ways).

Jasper Nightingale Wilson: First name was chosen from a list of modern gender-neutral names, mainly meant to be a fitting, likely choice for a name a genderfluid teen would choose for themself in the 2010s. Middle name was chosen to honor Florence Nightingale, Jasper's personal hero and the person that inspired them to go into nursing. Surname can be derived in some ways from "desire", but was also chosen for an ongoing joke with their partner about having "two first names". Derby name, Gemstone, is meant as a connection to the name Jasper. [note: I will not be analyzing the symbolism of their deadname, and I didn't choose extensive symbolism for their deadname even if there's some to potentially be found. The only thing I chose to line up is that they chose their former derby name to be derivative of their first name, the same way Gemstone is derived from Jasper]

Indigo: Uses no surname until marriage - first because she didn't know her family, later as an act of rebellion for how "loaded" her family surnames would be. She chose her first name herself, for the deep blue color of her eyes, because being a foundling on the dog-eat-dog world of Corellia meant nobody bothered to choose a proper name for her (prior to choosing her name, her guardians would just summon her with "girl!" or "hey, you!"). Name was also chosen with a nickname in mind, both to provide variety and as a symbol of familiarity as she moves through the story.

Prometheus: Name as a nightmare was Nyx (from the Greek god of night), or the Fear of the Dark, for them being a primal nightmare of the dark. Name as a dream keeps the Greek mythological roots, but represents them claiming fire for the sake of the human dreamers they choose to protect, as well as representing the day-by-day injury they undergo in order to protect those same dreamers. The transition from Nyx to Prometheus also represents them becoming closer to their human dreamers - beginning as a primordial god, ending as a human hero.

Eris: Given name from Themyscira was Adamantia, meaning "untameable" or "unbreakable". After their bloodlust and sense for conflict became clear to the people around them, those on Themyscira began referring to them as Eris - believing they were an embodiment of conflict itself, a reincarnation of the Greek god Eris (similar to the Ares story in Wonder Woman)

Nikoletta Bordeaux: First name means "victorious" and is drawn from the Greek Nike. Surname is a region in France, but has no other translated or derived meaning (especially considering that Nikoletta's family stem from Louisiana Cajun French, not traditional French, and the further linguistic separation there). Altogether, her name symbolizes "a victory that means nothing", indicating the various façades she implements while in Belle Reve - holding a position that only grants her power while within the prison, and her abilities themselves being used as a symbol for death while actually having no tangible danger.

Azalea Jordan "AJ" Campbell: First name is a flower, connecting her to her mother Violet as well as representing her career as an assassin in disguise: azaleas are beautiful flowers, but are toxic to humans and animals. Middle name, as well as her nickname, are intentionally gender-neutral, meant to symbolize her ongoing disguises and anonymity as an assassin (since the names apply to any gender, there are fewer visual assumptions that can be made about her). Surname translates to "crooked mouth", representing and foreshadowing the reveal of her facial scars.

Quinn: Any surname or former name for her have not been revealed or even decided, and I don't intend to choose any - that stage of her life has been left long in the past, and she's intentionally placed a distinction between that life and her current identity. The name Quinn has various meanings: it can be derived from "wise", "beautiful", or "chief", but was also chosen in-universe as a reference to Harley Quinn. Her rooftop name, Aces, furthers the association with Harley Quinn, decks/suits of cards, and luck/gambling.

Kestrel: Name and character design as a whole are pulled from an American kestrel - solitary animals save for their lifelong mating bonds, known to be adaptable to a variety of habitats and nesting conditions, and extremely effective hunters despite their small size. Former name, Deborah "Debbie" Browning, was merely meant as a mundane and human identity for them to have held before they revealed themself as a changeling.

Katherine Alessia Johnson: Name is largely derived from the NASA astronomer Katherine Johnson, known for contributing valuable research and computations to the moon landing (the moon symbolism also being tied back to the moonlight-powered Tablet of Khonsu). Middle name Alessia means "defender" or "truthful", notable elements of Katherine's character as well as her connection to Bastet, the Egyptian god of domestic protectiveness.

James "Jimmy" Aaron Luciano: As a whole, name was just chosen on a whim based on what sounded right, and wasn't intended with particular deeper meaning aside from being a period-accurate name for an Italian-American New Yorker in the 1910s. However, there is symbolism to be found in that both his former partner Robert and current love interest Lars choose to refer to him as James rather than his nickname.

Vivienne Siversdatter Andenæs: First name means "life", representing her being saved from death by her transformation into a siren - the name was also chosen to be a classically beautiful and feminine name, both for a siren's ethereal beauty and as a subversion towards Vivienne being nonbinary (at least, that it would be nonbinary by modern standards). Middle name is a family surname from Norwegian naming conventions, preserving her father's name. Surname has no listed translation or meaning, but is also Norwegian in origin.

Souriya "Spider" Prakash-Cooper: First name is Lao in origin and means "sun" to symbolize his explosive energy and social "brightness", and was chosen by his parents to honor his maternal grandfather. Surname is his parents hyphenated last names - his mother Adhira Prakash and his father Darius Cooper. Prakash also means "sunlight" to double that earlier symbolism; and while the surname Cooper originally derives from barrel-making, the name was chosen more for the juxtaposition between his father's family in America and his mother's family across India and Laos. His nickname Spider comes from friends at his speed-climbing gym, who gave him the nickname for his long limbs and fast, eclectic climbing strategy.

[faegoddessog]

Day 15:n Just little Florence Nightingale Effect

January's DDof AB @dailydoseofaustinbutler

Peeps who may want to know! , @purejasmine, @slowsweetlove, @richardslady121, @austinbutlerslovers, @tadpoleteef, @allittakesisoneflight @thisworldisntrealhoney,  @1nho,  @megangovier, @briaandthephantoms, @andro-inherdreamworld @callumsgirl @blombardo  @fefeisastar @hacunamy @nestito702 @denised916 @jayydep @r0m4nitcl0v3r @heyidc03, @secondchild-2, @flander42 @natural-born-rebel-spirit @lecosymood @kathrynzaragoza @bsunshinexo @jayydep @ifyouloveweedletsgosmoke @peggyao3

“Better?” she asks.

“Yeah,” he says around the processed little cake, “Thanks” 

“You didn’t have to do that, but I appreciate that you did,” her voice sincere.

“Yeah well, the women and girls in my life, hell even my exes deserve a world that is safe for them,” he looks up at her from his seat through the longest lashes she’s ever seen on a man, "all women do."

In retrospect, it wasn’t the heroic actions, or the fact that he devolved into a little lost puppy after that melted her. It was that sentence that did her in.

She tried to think of something to say other than ‘fuck that’s hot’. Not the time.

“OK, I need to make a phone call,” he says as he looks up at her, “preferably in private.”

“Yeah, “ she offers him a hand up, “It’s ok if you just want to go, I’ll be fine, my apartment isn't that far away,”

“Oh no,” he takes her hand and stands, “I feel obligated now to make sure you’re safe,” 

Who is this guy?  All punching out creeps and insisting on ‘walking her home. A real old school gentleman. It’s now that she notices the red streak in his hair. Looking download she sees the drop of blood on the stark white tiles of the floor and another shivering and about to drop from the knuckles clenched around the red can.

“Oh shit, you’re hurt,” she grabs a wad of napkins, pressing them to his hand. “Listen, my apartment isn't very far from here. I could get you cleaned up and you can make your call in private,” she offers.

“You don’t have to do that. It’s… it’ll be fine,” but he lets her hold his hand. 

“What about wanting to make sure I’m safe?”  she smiles, “besides, I can’t just walk away and leave you empty handed after such a display of bravery, Mr. Knight in Shining Armor.”

He looks at the empty can in his hand, then back at her with a raised eyebrow.

The walk to her building wasn’t far. They really didn’t say much. 

She sat him down at the kitchen bar after tossing her purse onto the couch. She pulls out her first aid kit from a drawer in the kitchen and sits next to him on the matching stool to tend to his hand. 

“Is it ok if I talk on the phone while you…” he nods to his hand. 

She nods. He calls and puts it to his ear.

“Hey Aus, what’s up?” says a female voice on the other end. 

“Yeah, I need to give you a head’s up. There was a situation at a bar.” 

“Ok, what happened?” 

“Umm. short version, There was a guy, a real jerk and he was about to y’know hurt someone so I uh… stopped him… with my fist to his head.”

There was silence for a couple heartbeats. 

“Are you ok?” the voice sounds earnest. 

“Yeah, I’m being looked after, just a scratch on my hand, it was one hit and he was out. Hssss,” he winces as she squeezes a stream of saline onto his cut. 

“Dammit, this is not your brand, Austin,” the voice says, exasperated. 

“I dunno, he tried to drug a young lady then was takin’ a swing at her,” Austin says matter-of-factly. 

“Ok yeah, that is your brand, just not one the public really knows. We can give it a guardian angel kinda spin if it comes out. Okay. Well, did anyone recognize you?” 

“I don’t think so, it was kinda a dive bar, not my usual,” Austin admits.

“You say that like you have a usual,” the voice jests, “ok well you know the vultures can be anywhere, I’ll call Dave just in case.  And we’ll keep an eye on the socials. Thanks for the heads up.”

If she had actually processed what she heard of the conversion, she would have figured he’s gotta be somebody to have to make a call like that. As it stood, her attention was split between trying to tend to his hand and the fucking pheramones coming off him. Good Lord does he smell good. 

“It doesn’t look too bad,” she says, placing the last of three bandages in an effot to cover his knuckle, “It’s just gonna suck cuz where it's at.”

“Thanks,” they sit in silence for two heartbeats, just staring at one another. 

“I’d… uh… better go,” he breaks eye contact. 

“You don't have to,” she starts to  put away her first aide kit, “besides I should keep an eye on you in case you crash or something.”  There is no way she is just gonna say bye and kick him out the door.

“Oh, I don’t want to inconvenience you,” his words are nothing but polite, but his eyes tell a different story. He wants nothing more than to stay, but…

“Nah, I haven’t even thanked you properly,” her voice only just rolling into an alluring timbre.

“Sure you did, that Coke and Twinkie?” He stands, trying to ignore the way she kept her hand out, brushing from his palm, to this thigh. “Plus you just helped me with my hand.”

“You know that’s not what I mean,” she cuts to the chase,  looking up at him through her lashes, fingertips lightly playing at the side seam of his jeans.

He breathes in, his face a mingling of hidden desire,  confusion,  and propriety. 

“I…um…. But you.. I- I- I shouldn’t,” he doesn't even know what he is trying to say. 

“You know,” she takes her hand away in a surrendering gesture, “If you just aren’t that into me, you can just say you’re not that into me, its ok. Or are you already taken?” It's better to get it over with if either was the case. 

“No, no it’s not either, not at all,” he nervously rakes his hand through his hair, wincing at the pull of the bandages. “ I just…. Okay, after what almost happened to you,” he takes a step away from her, “I didn't think you’d be interested in some guy you just met making any advances, especially in your own apartment.” 

“One: it didn't happen to me because of you,” she stands up,” two: you have definitely proven that you are not just ‘some guy’,” she closes the distance between them, “and lastly, do you think I would have brought you here if I wasn't interested?”

[askganon]

Okay why does everyone want to attribute your actions to some curse of Demise, that's dumb. I like you because you are hilarious. Like HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU TRICKED THE KINGS OF HYRULE ON SOMETHING VERY OBVIOUS? One time you made an alter ego to fix the problems you caused to make them appreciate you. AND IT WORKED! YOU SENT ZELDA TO THE DARK WORLD, AND YOU MIND-CONTROLLED HYRULE'S ENTIRE ARMY! It was hilarious!

How can people not like that?

The answer is surprisingly quite interesting. To put it bluntly, most crave me, but naturally see my actions as deplorable. However, because their drive to have me supersedes the warnings given off in their minds, they develop a complex called by many names, including the Florence Nightingale effect and the Nursemaid Role.

It is a mental complex revolving around the mantra of "I can fix him."

In this complex, they feel that if given the chance, they could turn me, or whomever their subject would be, from their dark or wicked ways.

They would become more important to me than any other, because they could do what no other person ever could; save me from myself.

But first, they must create a source for such darkness that is outside of their subject's control. In my case, it is the soul of the Demon. To them, I am not responsible for my actions, I am a slave to the desires of the Demon's Soul.

Without him, surely I am a good person, and therefore redeemable in curable.

I can be molded to fit their needs.

But in truth, they do not wish me fixed or cured from my inner darkness. They want me to be their toy, their slave, submitting to their own needs and desires.

It is not hope or love they feel, it is narcissism.

[kaialone]

All Fanny Win & Lose Quotes Translated (Guilty Gear Petit)

As the title says, this will be a translation of all* Win & Lose quotes involving Fanny from Guilty Petit and Guilty Gear Petit 2.

(*Except for the mirror match quote, if one exists, because it looks like you can’t get a proper mirror match in single player.)

I thought these would be interesting to know about, since they’re pretty much the only characterization Fanny gets outside of the Petit 1 & 2 story modes, plus getting to see a bit of how the other characters react to her.

EDIT: I have since also translated all of the Petit 1 & 2 story modes (yes, all of them)- check those out here.

--

Some more things to note before we get started:

Characters who appear in both Petit 1 and 2 have identical Win and Loss quotes in both games.

The final roster also includes four “GG” characters: GG Sol Badguy, GG May, GG Millia Rage, and GG Ky Kiske.

These four characters are essentially their base form counterparts, but with an alternate moveset inspired by the first Guilty Gear game. They are given different color schemes to differentiate them in gameplay, but they are effectively treated like they are the same characters, even though they have separate quotes and story modes.

The only exception is GG Ky Kiske, who is actually Robo-Ky!

Finally, in terms of status-quo, the characters are roughly plucked from around the Guilty Gear X era - for example Dizzy is part of the Jellyfish Pirates, but Zato-1 hasn’t fully passed away yet (but is still controlled by Eddie.)

Though the stories of these games are really more on the humorous side.

Now, onto the actual translations!

--

Fanny Win Quotes

(These are the quotes Fanny herself says when defeating these characters.)

Sol Badguy: せんせいは、かんじゃさんに リラックス してもらお��と おもっているからこそ あんなにユーモアにあふれているのです。 The doctor wants to help his patients relax, that's why he's so full of humor.

Ky Kiske: すみません、せのたかくてスマートで ウィットにとんだせかいさいこうのめいい、 ごぞんじないですか？ Excuse me? Do you happen to know about the tall, suave, witty, and overall greatest doctor in the entire world?

May: せんせいはえいせいてきにかんがえて、 あたまをそっていらっしゃるのです。 …たぶん。 The doctor shaves his head for hygienic purposes. …I think.

Millia Rage: ねんのため くすり だしておきますね。 I'm giving you some medicine, just in case.

Potemkin: わたしのオデコのほうが かたかったみたいです。 Looks like my forehead is harder.

Kuradoberi Jam: せんせいのようしですか？ あしがながくて くびもながい ひかりかがやいているかたですわ。 What does the doctor look like? He has long legs, and a long neck, and he's just a positively radiant person.

Mito Anji: せんせいもあなたのように ステキなめがねをしてらしたのよ。 The doctor was also wearing lovely glasses, just like you.

Johnny: ステキなけんさばきでしたわ、 でも せんせいにはかないませんわね。 That was some fine swordplay, but you still can't hold a candle to the doctor.

Faust: ああっ、せんせい… どこにいってしまわれたのでしょうか？ Oh, Doctor… Where could you have gone?

Chipp Zanuff: ぜひ けんけつをおねがいします。 きっと ちが おおすぎるのですわ。 Please consider donating blood. I'm sure you have too much of it.

Axl Low: ごめんなさい、わたしは「はくいのてんし」 わたしのあいは みなさんびょうどうですの。 I'm sorry, but I'm a "white angel"- I love everyone equally.

(Translator's Note: “はくいのてんし/hakui no tenshi”, meaning “white angel” is a non-official term sometimes used for nurses in Japanese, as far as I can tell. As far as I’ve heard, this term might’ve come from the legacy of Florence Nightingale, particularly the 1937 movie based around her life called “The White Angel”. Obviously likening nurses to angels is a thing in English too, but I still wanted to explain the details here.)

Zato-1 (Eddie): あなたぜひ せんせいのオペを うけるべきですわ！ You should absolutely get surgery from the doctor!

Testament: せいしんあんていざいを うっておきました。 もうだいじょうぶ！ I have given you sedatives. Everything will be fine now!

GG Sol Badguy: せんせいのすばらしさがわからないんですか？ おきのどくに。 Don't you know just how wonderful the doctor is? How unfortunate.

GG May: せんせいは「ハゲ」ではありません！ 「ボウズ」ですわ！！ The doctor is NOT bald! He just shaves!!

GG Millia Rage: あなたのこころのキズ、はやく せんせいに みてもらったほうがいいと おもいますわ。 I think you'd better let the doctor take a look at your broken heart as soon as possible.

GG Ky Kiske (Robo-Ky): あなた すぐにせんせいに みていただいたほうがいいわ！ せんせい！！きゅうかんです！！ You should go see the doctor right away! Doctor!! It's an emergency!!

--

Fanny Defeated Quotes

(These are the quotes these characters say to Fanny when they defeat her.)

Sol Badguy: かんごふってのは、みな、こうだったか？ Are all nurses like this?

Ky Kiske: かんごふ というのもまた からだをはる しごとなのですね。 I suppose being a nurse, too, is quite the physically demanding line of work.

May: ボクもずっと すきなひと さがしてたからわかるよ。そのきもち。 I'm always chasing after someone I like, too. So I get how you feel.

Millia Rage: さいきん えだげが ひどいのよね。 いいくすりしらない？ I've been having awful split ends lately. Do you know any remedy for that?

Potemkin: ずいぶん かわった たたかいだったな… That sure was a strange battle…

Kuradoberi Jam: ちょっと、やりすぎたアル…って ねてるアルか？ Whoops, I think I overdid it… Wait- Are you asleep?

Mito Anji: 「まてば かいろのひよりあり」ってね がんばって さがしな "Good things come to those who wait", you know. So hang in there and keep on searching, alright?

(Translator's Note: What Anji says in the first line is a Japanese idiom that would literally translate to “waiting for fair weather at a sea route”, in case you’re curious. But it does essentially mean “Good things come to those who can wait.”)

Johnny: とう「ジェリーフィッシュかいぞくだん」では チャーミングなナース ぼしゅうちゅうだ むかしのおとこ わすれさせてやるぜ？ The Jellyfish Pirates are looking to hire a charming nurse right now, so what d'ya say? I'll make you forget all about that other guy.

Faust: 「いりょうのみちは いちにちしてならず。」 かんじゃへの あいのみに いきるべきです。 "The path of medicine isn't forged in a day." You should live only for your love towards your patients.

Chipp Zanuff: へんなねーちゃんだな？ おれはどこもけがしちゃいねーけどな。 What's with this chick? I wasn't even hurt anywhere.

Axl Low: 「はくいのてんし」はすきだけど もうちょっと おとなしいほうがすきだぜ？ I do like "white angels", but… I'd like it even better if you were a bit more gentle, eh?

Zato-1 (Eddie): モウオソイワ コイツトオレハキリハナセンヨ。 YOU ARE TOO LATE. HE AND I CANNOT BE SEPERATED.

Testament: わたしに いりょうなど ひつようない。 I have no need for medical care.

GG Sol Badguy: かんごふがくるとこじゃねぇぜ、ここは。 This is no place for a nurse.

GG May: さいきんのかんごふって ずいぶん つよいのね？ Nurses are pretty tough these days, huh?

GG Millia Rage: ボーっとしてるから…。 That's what you get for spacing out…

GG Ky Kiske (Robo-Ky): カカカンゴフ トトトトイウノモモモマタ カカカラダヲハル ㇱ、シゴトナノデスネネ。 I- I- I SUPPOSE BEING A- A- A- A- A NURSE, T-T-TOO, IS QUITE T-T-T-THE PHYSICALLY D-DEMANDING LINE OF WORK-K.

--

[querade]

THINGS DOCTOR WHO SHOULD DO

PART 1

__________________________________________Trapped in a real-live Panopticon!!

Meeting Florence Nightingale because the doctor would f*** with that badass

Museums/Exhibitions of Earth on other planets!

An enemy in your reflection—an alien exists only in reflections. It doesn’t know what it looks like, so it is obsessed with looking into other people’s eyes to see itself reflected back. It just wants to know who it is…

Horror in Russian Nesting Dolls (An extra dimension inside of them. Bonus points if it's set in the Catherinian era. Triple points if the Doctor has to "open up" to his companion by the end, lol)

“Where did all the pigeons go? Why aren’t there pigeons? There used to be pigeons!”

Or

WHY ARE THERE SO MANY F***ING EARTH PIGEONS IN THE MIDDLE OF SPACE!?”

A companion travels to their own timeline to stop the Doctor from making a series of small mistakes he made while traveling with them. They can speak with the Doctor, of course, but when doing so, they must always make him believe they are the past version of themselves. Maybe, when traveling all the way back to the beginning, the must pretend they don't know him at all...oh, how painful that would be.

Plague Doctors in Space!

Night Doctors in Space! (Maybe the Florence nightingale episode?)

The doctor is stuck with a Cyberman for an episode and uses the opportunity to understand it…and it’s sad. Kind of like ‘Dalek’ but for a cyberman

ACTUAL consequences of the butterfly effect and seeing the future changed in different ways

PART 2 UP SOON? if my adhd allows

[videostarblogs]

12. dark mori kei

dark mori kei is a substyle of mori kei that merges the forest inspired aesthetic of traditional mori kei with a darker, more mysterious edge. often called dark forest girl, this style retains mori keis connection to nature but emphasizes its mythical, shadowy side -- akin to walking through an enchanted forest at twilight, here's a breakdown of dark mori kei

origins and development

evolution from mori kei: dark mori kei emerged as an offshoot of mori kei around the early 2010s, developed by individuals who appreciated the cire aesthetic of more kei but wanted to introduce a "gothic", darker element. It offers a way to explore the darker side of nature, moving away from bright, pastel colors to show off the shadowy side.

influence of folklore and fantasy: the style draws from mythology, fairytales, and myths often portraying a darker character that could represent a witch, forest spirit, or some sort of dark fairy. its aesthetic plays on the mysterious qualities of deep woods, misty paths, and magical creatures

key motifs

Dark color palettes: Unlike traditional Mori Kei's earthy, light tones, dark Mori Kei uses a palette of deep, muted colors like black, charcoal gray, forest green, burgundy, deep plum, and midnight blue. shades of brown, rust, and dark cream may also appear to keep the natural theme but in a more somber way.

Layered shapes: Layering is essential in dark mori kei. The look often involves flowing, asymmetrical layers of dresses, shawls, and oversized sweaters to create a slightly ragged shape. Loose cardigans, cloaks, capes, and lace details add to the forest effect.

nature and mystical textures: materials like lace, velvet, wool, and cotton add a textured, vintage feel to dark mori kei. worn in or distressed fabrics are common, as they give off the impression of a forest wanderer. dark lace, crochet details, and feather or fur trimmings add an extra touch to the outfits.

occult and nature theme accessories: accessories in dark MRI kei often include items inspired by nature and witches---think of dry flowers, feathers, crystals, charms, and bones (fake or real). silver jewelry, layered necklaces, rings with dark stones, and talismans are popular, giving off a forest witch vibe.

dark makeup and hair: makeup in dark mori kei is more pronounced than in mori kei. dark eyeshadows, smudged eyeliner, and berry or plum-colored lip tints enhance the makeup in this style. hair is often left loose and wild, styled in braids, or decorated with hairpieces like flower crowns, vines, or feathers. darker hair colors or tones of auburn, deep green, and black complete the look.

music

dark mori kei is often associated with atmospheric, ethereal music that has a haunting, folk-inspired sound. neofolk, dark folk, and ambient genres resonate well with this aesthetic. artists like Wardruna, Chelsea Wolfe, and Florence + the Machine capture the spirit of the style. Medieval-inspired or witchy folk songs set the right mood for dark more kei as well. here are some artist suggestions

lamp

ichiko aoba

800 cherries

tico moon

HUS

astrud gilberto

joao gilberto

kaede

kali uchis

serani poji

movies

films that embody the magical and mysterious parts of nature fit dark more kei perfectly. Pan Labyrinth by Guillermo del Toro is one amazing example. other fitting films include The Witch, Sleepy Hollow, and The Secret of Roan Insih. here are a few other movies I suggest!

the ancient magus' bride

anohana

fruits basket

honey and clover

is the order a rabbit?

Mary and the Witch's flower

Mushi shi

snow white with the red hair

the dark crystal

mirrormask

books and other media

folktales and dark fantasy: dark mori kei is often linked to literature that explores enchanted forests, ancient magic, and gothic themes. works like The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Garden, Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte, and classic fairytales with darker themes resonate with this aesthetic.

witchcraft and nature journals: witchcraft and nature-themed journals are popular in the dark more kei community. many enjoy documenting plant knowledge, seasonal cycles, and forest photography, often with an emphasis on the darker, hidden beauty of nature.

visual art and photography: dark mori kei is also influenced by art and photography that captures shadowy forests, mystical creatures, and haunting but beautiful landscapes. artists like Brian Froud, known for his dark fantasy illustrations, are popular in the community.

inspo

dark mori kei is a style that celebrates the mysterious, darker side of nature through a forest-inspired aesthetic. with its deep colors, layered fabrics, and mythical accessories, it channels the spirit of a dark forest fairy or a forest spirit. dark mori kei is for those who find beauty in the shadows, embracing a balance of nature and magic that feels otherworldly and grounded in the forest. this style offers a sense of hidden magic, embodying the darker, mythical says of the mori kei aesthetic.

make sure to follow, comment, and reblog for more style breakdowns like this!!!!! use my questions box in my profile to suggest any styles you want to see!!!!!!!!!!!

videostar logging off..............................................................................................................................................................................................

[arsene-fixates]

I like to think that what informant feels for anna (since currently in the game where i'm at they're dating) is purely just deep respect, alongside the feelings of protectiveness for her, since she has the tendency to get in Situations a lot of the time (he has stated this himself about her)

when i was talking about this with philiah, he brought up The Florence Nightingale effect: "a trope where a caregiver falls in love with their patient, even if very little communication or contact takes place outside of basic care. Feelings may fade once the patient is no longer in need of care."

also i honestly feel like she wouldn't have liked him in that way if he didn't confess to her since when he took her out on that "date", she didn't even notice it was a date.......... so it's like she only gained feelings after he confessed

[footprintsinthesxnd]

USAAF Flight Nurses

So as I’m currently collabing with @major-mads on a fic where our two ocs are flight nurses I thought I do a little post about them as they aren’t well know. I’ve also had a passion for ww2 nurses, including flight nurses and so I’ve really enjoyed sharing my flight nurse knowledge with Mads as we have written our fic. These woman were truly amazing, like many woman during ww2, so I thought I do a little factual post about them.

Before World War II, the U.S. military showed little interest in using aircraft and flight nurses to evacuate wounded soldiers to rear areas. However, the global war forced the US to revolutionise military medical care through the development of air evacuation, which was later known as aeromedical evacuation and flight nurses.

With the rapid expansion of USAAF air transport routes around the world it was made possible to fly wounded and sick servicemen quickly to hospitals far from the front lines. This helped save the lives of many wounded men, and the introduction of flight nurses helped make it possible.

Due to a pressing need for this service, the USAAF created medical air evacuation squadrons and started a rush training program for flight surgeons, medics and flight nurses at Bowman Field, near Louisville, Kentucky.

The increasing need for flight nurses became critical after the Allied invasion of North Africa in November 1942, however many of the nurses at Bowman Field had not finished their training. Nevertheless, the USAAF sent these nurses to North Africa on Christmas Day.

On Feb. 18, 1943, the U.S. Army Nurse Corps' first class of flight nurses formally graduated at Bowman Field.

Due to the C47s used as air evacuation also transported military supplies, they could not display the Red Cross. This meant that without any markings to indicate their non-combat status, these evacuation flights were vulnerable to enemy attacks. For this reason, flight nurses and medical technicians were volunteers.

To prepare for any emergency, flight nurses learned crash procedures, received survival training, and studied the effects of high altitude on various types of patients. They also had to be in top physical condition to care for patients during these rigorous flights.

Eventually, about 500 Army nurses served as members of 31 medical air evacuation transport squadrons operating worldwide. It is a tribute to their skill that of the 1,176,048 patients air evacuated throughout the war, only 46 died en route. Seventeen flight nurses lost their lives during the war.

The Flight Nurses Creed

I will summon every resource to prevent the triumph of death over life. I will stand guard over the medicines and equipment entrusted to my care and ensure their proper use. I will be untiring in the performances of my duties and I will remember that, upon my disposition and spirit, will in large measure depend the morale of my patients. I will be faithful to my training and to the wisdom handed down to me by those who have gone before me.I have taken a nurse's oath, reverent in man's mind because of the spirit and work of its creator, Florence Nightingale. She, I remember, was called the "Lady with the Lamp." It is now my privilege to lift this lamp of hope and faith and courage in my profession to heights not known by her in her time. Together with the help of flight surgeons and surgical technicians, I can set the very skies ablaze with life and promise for the sick, injured, and wounded who are my sacred charges. ...This I will do. I will not falter in war or in peace.

Here are a few of the real flight nurses from ww2 from left upper: Second Lieutenant Elsie S. Ott, upper right: first Lieutenant Suella Bernard.

Elsie S. Ott - As the flight nurse on the first intercontinental air evacuation flight, she demonstrated the potential of air evacuation in January 1943. She was an Army nurse who had never flown in an airplane and had no air evacuation training, she successfully oversaw the movement of five seriously ill patients from India to Washington, D.C. This six-day trip would have normally taken three months by ship and ground transportation. For her actions on this historic flight, Ott received the first Air Medal presented to a woman, and she also received formal flight nurse training.

Suella Bernard - On March 22, 1945, two CG-4A gliders landed in a clearing near the bridgehead at Remagen, Germany, to evacuate 25 severely injured American and German casualties. Once the gliders were loaded, C-47 transports successfully snatched them from their landing site and towed them to a military hospital in France. In the second glider, Suella who had volunteered for the mission, cared for the wounded en route. One of the first two nurses to fly into Normandy after the D-Day invasion, Bernard became the only nurse known to have participated in a glider combat mission during World War II. For this mission, she received the Air Medal.

Upper left: first Lieutenant Aleda E.Lutz Upper right: first Lieutenant Mary L. Hawkins

Aleda E. Lutz - One of the most celebrated flight nurses of World War II, she flew 196 missions and evacuated over 3,500 men. In November 1944, during an evacuation flight from the front lines near Lyon, France, her C-47 crashed killing all aboard. Aleda was awarded the Air Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Mary L. Hawkins - On Sept. 24, 1944, she was evacuating 24 patients from the fighting at Palau to Guadalcanal when the C-47 ran low on fuel. The pilot made a forced landing in a small clearing on Bellona Island. During the landing, a propeller tore through the fuselage and severed the trachea of one patient. Hawkins made a suction tube from various items including the inflation tube from a "Mae West." With this, she kept the man's throat clear of blood until aid arrived 19 hours later. All of her patients survived. For her actions, Hawkins received the Distinguished Flying Cross.

I hope you’ve all found this interesting and now have a greater understanding of flight nurses. If you’d like to read a fic on flight nurses please check out my fic ‘On a Wing and a Prayer’ and @major-mads fic ‘A Pair of Silver Wings’ a Masters of the Air collab.

[pisoprano]

Quotes from Florence Nightingale’s, Notes on Nursing that show just how ahead of her time in recognizing patient/disability concerns she really was

“People rarely, if ever, faint while making an exertion. It is after it is over. Indeed, almost every effect of over-exertion appears after, not during such exertion. It is the highest folly to judge of the sick, as is so often done, when you see them merely during a period of excitement. People have very often died of that which, it has been proclaimed at the time, has "done them no harm."”

“I think it is a very common error among the well to think that "with a little more self-control" the sick might, if they chose, "dismiss painful thoughts" which "aggravate their disease," &c. Believe me, almost any sick person, who behaves decently well, exercises more self-control every moment of his day than you will ever know till you are sick yourself. Almost every step that crosses his room is painful to him; almost every thought that crosses his brain is painful to him: and if he can speak without being savage, and look without being unpleasant, he is exercising self-control.”

“Volumes are now written and spoken upon the effect of the mind upon the body. Much of it is true. But I wish a little more was thought of the effect of the body on the mind. You who believe yourselves overwhelmed with anxieties, but are able every day to walk up Regent-street, or out in the country, to take your meals with others in other rooms, &c., &c., you little know how much your anxieties are thereby lightened; you little know how intensified they become to those who can have no change; how the very walls of their sick rooms seem hung with their cares; how the ghosts of their troubles haunt their beds; how impossible it is for them to escape from a pursuing thought without some help from variety.”

“Never to allow a patient to be waked, intentionally or accidentally, is a sine qua non of all good nursing.”

“Standing is, of all positions, the most trying to a weak patient.”

“Unnecessary noise, then, is the most cruel absence of care which can be inflicted either on sick or well.”

[wu-sisyphus-gang]

Jaune: Ruby and Weiss don’t know that I’m broken and unfixable.

Blake: You think it’s Florence nightingale effect?

Jaune: That’s…?

Blake: When nurses fall in love with their patients.

Jaune: Ah. Maybe a little then.

Blake: You underestimate their feelings for you. We all hate to see the suffering you’re going through.

Jaune: You’re a bunch of empaths one and all. Listen to me complain like I’m the one who fucking died.

Blake: You’re allowed to feel things too.

Jaune: I’m a murderer now. I don’t know how Ruby can touch me.

Blake: You didn’t murder Penny, Jaune. She chose death. You can’t keep blaming yourself for that.

Jaune: I totally fucking can.

[akiumzeno]

Late-night Akium analysis on Maeno's relationship with Tsugino

ZENO SPOILERS

yes, i know i stated the saving tsugino thing was maeno's chronic hero syndrome before but to be fair, at the time, i saw maeno's feelings for tsugino as platonic because i'm not the best at reading social cues and hints.

reading into it more, i realised that bro straight up was willing to die for this man. like genuinely he needs to cure tsugino so much it's insane

also something i discussed to the person i was rambling about despite everything, maeno is still tsugino's doctor throughout what we see of their relationship. and the thing is, there are literal laws that prevent from doctor and patients from forming relationships because of florence nightingale effect and all and they have to be separated for a long while until they are able to date. like maeno likely never explicitly says "i love you" to tsugino because he's not meant to or else there are consequences.

and i imagine even while he doesn't have his memories, he doesn't try to get all romantic with tsugino because it might be a "yeah i might be a lil gay for you but we gotta get out of this facility and OH MY GOD YOU'RE GOING CRAZY I GOTTA FIX THAT!"

also just generally, he can't even have a relationship with tsugino if he doesn't cure him lol. imagine trying to be with someone who wants to kill you and eat your organs all the time, that wouldn't be the best relationship ever.

[princesschimchim1325]

Love for Geppie?????? Thank God, he deserves that love!!!

I'm here to drop off like a thought/cute headcanon of like my fave trope ever!

Gepard usually stays in the frontlines, usually taking in all the damage and aggro for his soldiers (I know that's his role even in game/being the tank and all but every time he gets hit and he like screams I wince hhhh) so imagine a reader who is in charge of like taking care of the wounded soldiers so she's had more than enough times dealt with Gepard (so she knows him but he doesn't quite know her yet) already.

One day, the camp had been ambushed by a bunch of Fragmentum monsters and the main force is too busy with the Frontlines so reader here, despite being a healer, had to step up as technically the only one at that time who walked a Path and can heal whoever is left to be able to fight back and give the wounded time to escape. Gepard manages to make it back in time and give enough support so they all make it out. But he was already so wounded so reader takes special care of the Captain.

By the time he wakes up, reader has been in charge of his health exclusively, being the one to nurse him back to help (partially in thanks for saving her but also because she felt the most responsible for some of his aggravated wounds) and the way she treats him slowly has him go head over heels for her. Even after she no longer needed to take care of him extensively, Gepard finds himself spending his excess free time by her tent, just chatting and getting to know her better.

By the time he realizes that he has fallen in love with his caretaker, they were very close friends and he's gotten to know her a lot.

(Yes I'm a sucker for the Florence Nightingale effect/trope and yes I will die on a hill putting this trope on my fave charas and reader asdfjgktiejdkdo)

You're right and u should say it. I noticed that Geppie def doesnt get as much attention and love as much as the other guys 😔 I love the other guys too but Geppie is my number one in HSR.

I actually have an oc who hails from a diff world and is part of the express and she was once a nurse during the war in her world. So this ask is sooo perfect xksksksml this is too perfect I'm def making a one shot about this fr

The nurse/healer x injured warrior/soldier trope will forever be dear to me, like it is sooo romantic and sweet. Fr, Gepard is a wholeass unit and tank of a man xjnskwmskw

But every now and then, a shield becomes a bit too chipped to ignore and this is very true to Gepard whenever he becomes injured. Ohh yes the capable healer being the only fighter in a camp and then Gepard bulldozing in like the knight in shining armor he is despite being injured himself is just 👌 and then he just passes out in healer reader's arms nnggg

Him being naked from the waist up and waking up to reader's tiddies right up his face bc she's wrapping bandages around him and he just splutters, not knowing where he can look 😭

This became a normal occurence in the duration she nursed him back to health bc of his injuries, like the areas he cant reach like his back, needed to be tended by a professional.

Him noticing the difference in their hands 😭 his are scarred and calloused while hers are soft and dextrous 🥺

And when he's fully recovered, he still goes to her, making an excuse that it's for check ups until there's no more excuses, they just spend time together and he always looks forward to their tea time, and she does too. She's always flustered and smiley whenever her favorite patient is around.

They're idiots in love and everybody in the camp knows it, except the two people who are in love 💀

But, at one point, nightingale reader works herself to the bone to the point of collapsing and when Gepard hears of it, he rushes to her, for once letting his men take care of the frontlines.

And this time, when she wakes up, he's right next to her, holding her hand. She gets a scolding from him and when she objects that he often overworks himself too, he gets frustrated and he just pulls her for a kiss 😩

I could go on about Nightingale reader and Gepard but I'll just have to save that for the oneshot 😏