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[bbangtans]

daybreak | jjk | oneshot

Summary: One of your favorite things to do when you were in your early 20s was stay up late where reflective conversations eventually blurred into nonsense as the sun rose alongside someone you thought you would spend the rest of your days with… Now you’re stuck in New York City for one night due to a delayed flight with that very person standing there in his leather jacket and guitar case in hand across from you at the airport gate. See, fate is a funny thing and Jeon Jungkook could always find the humor in anything.

pairing: rockstar!ex!jk x f!reader genre/tropes: angst, fluff, exes to ???, right person wrong time/second chances, jungkook is so romance film lead coded – charismatic and well-spoken and genuine and ughhhhh i be fawning frrrr, this takes place where both jk and reader are 28ish, jk is a lead singer in a band with tae-jimin-yoongi, and y/n is a working professional rating/warnings: M | alcohol consumption, lots of swearing, semi-public sex, unprotected sex (don’t be all willy nilly with this tho!!!), dig bick jk lmfao, oral (f receiving), heavy petting, multiple orgasms. a/n: inspired by my faaaaaave movie before sunrise bc if there’s anything namjoon and i have in common, it’s that we are yearners 🤝 and SURPRISE! she's here a lil earlier than promised <3 word count: ~10.1k

The longest string of curses you ever muttered in your life escaped your lips as your tense eyes focused on the words CANCELED obnoxiously displayed on the monitor indicating the status of your flight, which was supposed to take you back to the comfort of your home in Seoul. This is ignoring the fact that you also had a big presentation to prepare for a client but you got pulled into this conference last minute by your boss – lucky you. 

“Ma’am, I’m so sorry. Unfortunately, all flights have been temporarily suspended due to emergency maintenance as a result of the aircraft recall. The most I can offer is to book you on the next available flight scheduled…” The poor airline employee offered with an apologetic smile. You stepped back as you realized this very employee had to face the brunt of the crowd who also suffered the same fate as you. 

You swallowed your anger, empathetic to this person who was merely a messenger. “Okay, when is the next flight?”

“It will be tomorrow at 10:15AM. That’s the earliest we can do, unfortunately. I can have you booked on that flight and you’ll have the details emailed to you shortly.” 

Sighing, you nodded your head. “Cool, thank you… but will the airline be able to provide a place to stay since –”

You were cut off by an angry – and entitled – middle-aged woman. “Excuse me but what is the airline going to do about this? I’m supposed to be in Seoul by 10PM on the 24th. How is this airline going to ensure that? Do you know how much I paid for this?”

You were at your wits end as you watched other passengers try to come down on the woman as you walked away. At least you were in “The City that Never Sleeps” so finding something to do won’t be that difficult. You jerked your carry-on bag along as you tried to exit from the commotion of your gate however you did not get far as you were stopped by someone who stood before you amongst another fleet of passengers dealing with the same issue as your flight. You recognized that signature, worn leather jacket and stickered guitar case from miles away.

“Jungkook?”

The call of his name pulled him back into reality as it appeared as though he himself was checking if this was actually happening. Your mind started racing as you couldn’t help the shock that washed over you. So many questions flashed by as his surprised gaze met yours.

“Hey…” He cleared his throat and ran a hand through his already tousled hair. “...Having flight issues too?”

Sitting at a coffee shop in the terminal across from each other, it was… awkward, you both could not deny. 

Jungkook cradled his iced americano while your now empty vanilla latte cup rested there. A funny representation of both of your approaches to life. It was also a point of teasing that Jungkook previously used to his advantage during the days of shared kisses and intimate dates. Times when you and Jungkook would lie shoulder to shoulder on a bed of grass in open fields and wish upon shooting stars.

“This sucks, doesn’t it?” You tried to break the ice, seeing Jungkook’s uncharacteristic silence. Perhaps these years have changed you both.

“The flight thing or us sitting across from each other like this?” Jungkook cracked and you let out a breath of laugh. 

Toying with your empty cup, you nodded at nothing in particular. “Definitely the flight thing, and regarding right now… not sure. But I can’t lie that it’s nice to see a familiar face amid this chaos.”

His shoulders slacked as if tension melted away and Jungkook sat up more confidently in his seat. “Yeah, I bet. And wait…” He paused before leaning towards you in surprise. “Are you here in NYC alone? What brings you here?”

You waved off his worry, knowing exactly what he was referring to. “I came here for a 2-day work conference so I was strictly here on business.” Funny to think that reaction was almost impulse despite the passage of time between you both.

“Have you been to New York before? Did you at least get a chance to explore the city after your conference?”

“No, and no, honestly. It took a lot out of me and the company is pinching pennies by only giving me a short window here outside of the conference. What about you, what brings you here? Is this your first time stuck here?” You rested your head on your hand that was propped up on the table.

Jungkook’s unforgettable grin made its appearance as he noticed your growing ease at the situation. “The band’s here on tour. We’re about to start our Europe leg but of course… shit had to hit the fan with the airplane scandals. And nope, this is our third time in New York. We were first here on tour a couple of years ago.” 

You smiled at this. “That’s right. I’m sure you’re a seasoned professional being on the road and all with the SNAFUs that come up… Congrats though, I hear the band has really taken off. You guys deserve all the success.”

“You don’t know how much that means to me,” Jungkook started, grinning wide as ever. “No seriously, it means a lot coming from you.”

“You’re messing with me.” You frowned in jest.

“No, not at all. You were that push to get my head on straight, y’know? Even before we … ended things… you were one of the few people who genuinely believed in us. And I can’t thank you enough for that.”

Feeling your face get warm, you shook your head in a humble gesture. “I only saw and believed in the obvious. I mean look at you guys now, touring the US and now even Europe? This success was all in the making.”

“But enough about the band! How’re you? Being all professional going abroad on conferences and stuff. What are you up to?” Jungkook took a sip from his Americano where the ice had become significantly smaller.

“I’m a product manager, and so that keeps me busy 9-5 on the weekdays.” You joked. “But other than that, just floating along. Hanging out with friends, taking life a day at a time, y’know? I’m nowhere as interesting as you, Mr. Rock Star… Living in LA and all.”

Jungkook laughed as he slipped off his leather jacket and revealed an entire sleeve of tattoos on his right arm. You eyed them curiously as he had always talked about wanting tattoos in your younger days. It was good to see that he was able to have that aspiration come to fruition. Another reminder of the passage of time between you both.

“Don’t say that, I think you’re one of the coolest people ever. No one approaches life the way you do, Taehyung-hyung might be a close second… but he doesn’t have the flare that you do.” He started then his smile turned slightly void as he followed up. “Would it be awkward to ask how things are with…”

“...Who? Oh, Seokjin?” You casually asked, truthfully you had not said that name since your eventual breakup almost a year ago. TL;DR you both weren’t compatible because you weren’t ready to settle down for whatever reason despite him being ready to take you both to city hall at the drop of a hat. “Uh… we ended things a while ago actually.”

“Right, yeah,” Jungkook responded vaguely. “Sorry if that was weird, it’s just that he and Yoongi-hyung are friends and you haven’t come up in a while whenever Hyung mentions him but sorry if I’m prying and sorry if I am especially making this awkward but –” He was rambling. Cute.

“Jungkook,” You rested a hand on his forearm, ignoring the surge of electricity that unknowingly jolted you both. “I get it, no worries.”

You both couldn’t help the smile that broke out on your faces.

“So what about you? Seeing anyone?”

He looked almost offended by the question but brushed it off. “Me? Nope, life’s been too hectic with the band these past two years to be seriously involved with someone.”

“Uh huh,” you mused before Jungkook cocked his brow in confusion at your response.

“What?”

“‘Seriously involved’? So you have been dabbling in some rockstar tendencies.” You wiggled your eyebrows teasingly. The 21-year-old in you aches, but today you are 28 and not exactly that same old person as before. 

Jungkook rolled his eyes. “Shut up. I don’t want to discuss that with you of all people. And besides, we haven’t made it to the big leagues yet. We’re just tadpoles in a lake, we still gotta work our way to bigger waters.”

You only laughed, and Jungkook let you with his arms folded over his chest – basking in this moment he never thought would happen.

However, it was interrupted as an aproned barista approached you both, being the only patrons left as the coffee shop was getting ready to close for the day. The freckled teen awkwardly cleared his throat with a broom in hand. You then observed the fact that the chairs were already perched upon tables – a clear sign that the establishment was closed for business. You both hadn’t realized how much time had passed in chatting. “Hello, I’m sorry but we’re closing for the day. You are welcome to take your drinks with you to the gates though.”

“Sorry about that.”

“No worries, my bad.”

You and Jungkook apologized at the same time while hurriedly gathering your belongings. 

Walking out, Jungkook sighed as he held the handle of his guitar case in his tattooed hand. “I can’t believe a place in the airport closes at fucking 5PM.”

“Jungkook, it’s a coffee shop. Closing at 5PM is considered late for that industry already and besides, this isn’t Seoul.” You laughed.

“True… but…” Jungkook cast you a sideways glance. “What are you going to do until your flight tomorrow morning?”

You could only shrug. “Not sure, I was just going to camp out here at JFK.”

A moment of silence passed as you both walked on in no particular direction, only the sound of the wheels of your carry-on suitcase and the heavy footsteps from Jungkook’s combat boots. Despite the 7 years that passed, you could still tell Jungkook was mulling over something. This fact honestly surprised you.

“Penny for your thoughts?” You offered gingerly.

“Now, this is going to sound crazy,” he spoke, his mind clearly running miles a minute and barely able to keep his once stable walking pace. “Hear me out all the way through, okay?”

“Sure.” You shrugged.

“So, my manager got each of us a hotel room not too far from the airport –”

“Jungkook.” You interrupted him incredulously, on the verge of seeing red. Offense, disrespect, anger… it all pulsed through you at once. By this point, you both had stopped in the middle of the wide airport corridor between gates. “Are you fucking serious –”

He held his hands up in defense. “You said you would hear me out!”

“...fine.” Arms crossed over your chest defensively, and you took a step back.

“Like I said, I have this hotel room so what if we kept our stuff there and we explore NYC tonight? Then when morning comes, you could grab your things and head back to Seoul and get back to your routine.” Jungkook now positioned himself where he stood directly before you, eyes connected to yours. “You said it yourself you didn’t get to see NYC. And I’ve been here before, so it all works out.”

You obviously still looked unconvinced with arms crossed over your chest defensively. 

“Okay, how about this: there’s a Smart Carte baggage drop-off in Terminal 4 of JFK. Forget stopping by my hotel room, you can drop off your things here so by morning we can both be here for our flights. I’ll be on my way to Vienna and you’ll be headed back to Seoul. How does that sound?” Jungkook negotiated. “Listen, Y/N. It’s just been so nice to hang out with you and I don’t know but there’s something in me that can’t pass up this opportunity to at least help you see the magic of NYC… and to spend a few more hours with you.”

“I…”

Jungkook stepped forward with a pleading stare. “Please, I promise it’ll be worth your while. I feel like you would regret this not happening as much as I would. And if it convinces you, I promise that we can forget that this night ever happened after the fact. I swear…”

A smirk broke out on your face after a tense beat of silence and mulling over his words. “Okay.”

“Okay.” Jungkook could not fight the smile that reached his eyes as he breathed a sigh of relief and then turned, gesturing for you to start off what would be your journey of the evening together.

By the time you both made it into Manhattan proper, it was prime dinner time. You felt the grumble of your stomach as you and Jungkook sat in the back seat of an iconic yellow taxi. Embarrassedly, you put your hand over your stomach in a feeble attempt to keep it quiet. 

“So, y’all are headed to Katz’s?” The taxi driver asked as he glanced at the two of you through the rearview mirror. He was an elderly man wearing a newsboy cap and the taxi itself smelled of the endless cups of coffee he consumed during his day on the clock. 

“Yup, we’re hoping the dinner rush isn’t as bad,” Jungkook responded in a friendly manner. “It may be a Tuesday but it’s Katz’s after all.”

The driver chuckled as the traffic was beginning to chip away and the taxi started to speed up on the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge. You couldn’t help the gasp that escaped you as you watched the city sky begin its transition into an orangey-pink sunset. “I’m assuming this fella over here has been to the City before, but is this your first time, Miss?”

You nodded your head. “Yes, actually I came for a conference but have limited time here.”

“Oh? When do you head back to…” he trailed off, not sure how to continue the sentence.

Jungkook took the chance to chime in. “Seoul… in Korea. She heads back tomorrow actually.”

The driver let out a low whistle. “That’s a crazy turnaround time. But listen, New York is a magical place – despite whatever those bozos not even from the city have to say. It has character, and so much can happen in the City that Never Sleeps. It is a land of possibility. And here, thirty years ago, is actually where I met the woman who became my wife. It’s a special place, for sure.”

“I bet.” Jungkook grinned as he looked out the drawn window, taking in the newly warm springtime breeze. 

Jungkook let you take the ride in silence, unsure of what was going through your head about this whole situation and in all honestly cursing himself for possibly pressuring you into doing something you weren't comfortable with in the first place. He kept casting cautious glances your way when you weren’t looking. 

Eventually, the taxi came to a halt. 

“Alrighty, here we are!” The driver pulled up on the busy intersection and you were in awe by the throngs of people despite it being one of the earlier weekdays and the very end of rush hour. Jungkook paid for the ride and ushered you both out of the taxi respectfully.

“Thank you for the ride!” You called out as you exited the vehicle.

“Enjoy New York and all she has to offer!” the driver bid you two before driving off to find his next patron of the evening. 

Jungkook almost choked mid-bite of the huge signature pastrami sandwich you both decided to split as you continued to share about that one time your mutual friend back in Seoul, Hoseok, had accidentally cussed out an innocent employee at a haunted house. 

“No way.” He barely managed to get out between his mix of coughs and laughs, grabbing the attention of worried customers inside the establishment. He grabbed his cup of water to ease his throat.

“Yes, way! Afterward, he kept bowing in apology. I felt so bad but Namjoon and I were too busy laughing to step in to help.” You put your spoon down, making a good decision to not have a bite of the shared chicken noodle soup as you giggled at the memory. 

Once Jungkook calmed down and took a sip of his water, he looked at you in amusement. “Classic Hobi.”

“I know right? But regardless, he’ll always be an angel. Despite that, he doesn’t have a single bad bone in his body.” 

Jungkook nodded in agreement. “I miss that guy a lot, man.”

You smiled up at him. “He misses you, too – I’m sure.”

He rested his sandwich on the plate. “Let me know if I’m being weird… but I missed this.”

Your smile faltered as it grew slightly wary. “What do you mean?”

“I don’t know.” He shrugged, genuine. “I just feel like you’ve always been someone I easily get along with and y’know… considering our past and how things aren’t super awkward now. In all honestly, I thought you were just going to ignore me and keep walking away at the airport due to the possibility that you might’ve hated me… I wouldn’t have blamed you, though. I was a bit of an asshole when we ended things. And I am sorry about that. Genuinely.”

You could easily recall that night.

You looked at him, confused. “What?”

“I said I don’t think we should continue seeing each other.” Jungkook stood his ground despite the internal turmoil. “I… just feel like I’m holding you back.”

“You can’t be the only one to decide that, Jungkook.” His words finally started to settle in your bones and it felt like a thousand cuts.

“Listen, you deserve a lot more… and we both know that.” 

“Jungkook, you aren’t listening. You can’t just pre-emptively end things like this over something like that – not without discussing it with me too.” 

You tried to reason with him by resting a hand on his arm. He finally looked at you with tears in his eyes. You knew at that point, there was no talking him out of it. He firmly believed this was the right choice for you, no matter how inherently selfish he didn’t realize he was being. Being kind to a fault in true Jeon Jungkook fashion.

He was breaking up with you.

You smiled bittersweetly at the memory. “Yeah… that is a fair thought. But you know, we were young. Barely 21 years old. And while that was only 7 years ago, we were different people. I can’t imagine making the same decisions we did back then now.”

“I guess we were.” Jungkook offered, understanding that this was your way of accepting his apology. 

“And!” You picked up your spoon again to scoop yourself a spoonful of some chicken noodle soup. “That was before we had developed prefrontal cortexes. And besides, I could never hate you now… I finished with that when I turned 23.” You joked but he froze slightly at your words.

Jungkook made sure to make direct eye contact with you filled with something that could move mountains. “I never intended to hurt you, I really didn’t.”

Your tone also went serious yet understanding. “I know, I know now. And I appreciate you for telling me.”

Despite the bustle of that tiny deli in the middle of the dinner rush, all you could see was Jungkook and all he could see was you. The understanding weighing upon you both now.

“Thank you for also trusting me with taking you out tonight, that means a lot to me.”

“Me too.” You nodded up at him. “I doubt there’s anyone else who would be able to get me out here like this either. I can’t even remember the last time I pulled an all-nighter… it was probably when we were still in undergrad.” The two of you shared a laugh that was abruptly interrupted. 

“FINAL CALL! Final call for order number 72!” The person working the counter exclaimed with the order bill in his hands. No one went up to the counter so the employee shook his head to himself in disapproval before proceeding to keep it pushing. 

The scene had finally calmed so you turned to Jungkook expectantly. “Alright, we had dinner. So where are we headed now?”

Jungkook wiped the crumbs off his mouth with a napkin as he said, “One of my favorite bars in the city! The vibes are so nice and they often have open mic nights so you get to see some local talent”

“Sounds amazing.”

“Oh, it will be,” Jungkook promised.

“I have to go to the bathroom real quick before we head out, though.” You said as you got up. 

He nodded his head as he motioned for you to go. “Do what you gotta do.”

Inside, you looked at yourself in the mirror in the bathroom, unable to grasp how this whole thing could have happened. One second you are about to cry from how cruel the universe was to sitting at a historic deli with Jeon-freaking-Jungkook. 

Once you returned, you saw him writing on a napkin which he then folded up and placed in the pocket of his jeans at the sight of you approaching. 

“What’s that?”

“Just some thoughts for a possible song that came to me.” Jungkook got up and left some cash for the tip on the table. “C’mon. Let’s head to our next destination!”

Sitting on the subway, thigh to thigh with Jungkook taking the aisle seat and you on the window seat, he told you that he doesn’t remember the name of this favorite bar but just how to get there. He said that, apparently, was all that mattered as you sat on the A Line train. Trying your best to ignore the close proximity due to the seat and Jungkook’s broad frame, you both took turns taking shy stolen glances at each other – hoping each other would notice just as much as you both wish you wouldn’t. The warm and slightly stagnant air made you both run a little hot, your cardigan resting in your lap and Jungkook’s leather jacket in his.

However, the car of the train started to get packed to the point where people had to step into the aisle right next to Jungkook. The sudden stops causing people to bump into the shaggy-haired singer. You scooted to be more flush against the wall of the car, motioning for Jungkook to get closer to avoid more hits from the rough ride and sudden backpack attack. He looked at you sheepishly as he accepted the invitation, where his arm went around the top of your seat and shoulders to make room for his wide build. 

“I hope this is okay.” He gave as he rested against you.

“Yeah, no worries.” You had a smile of reassurance that he mirrored.

It was hard to avoid each other eyes at this point. 

You wondered how long it had been since you were last nested against him and why you didn’t feel as uncomfortable as you thought you’d be despite all those years. However, this was no surprise as Jungkook always had that weird effect on you.

“Pardon me, is it cool if I stand here next to you?” A tall, handsome figure appeared from your left side. You peered over your shoulder at the sudden question. It was about an hour before Epik High was supposed to be on stage but you entered the venue early since you wanted a good place to stand on the floor. There were pockets of people but surely not enough where someone had to approach you and ask like that. 

Promptly, you had to bring yourself back to reality as you cleared your throat. “Yeah, sure… no worries.”

A bunny-toothed dazzling smile appeared and you watched as his eyes curiously traveled down to the long-sleeved tour shirt you held. A purchase to remember this concert. “Thanks. And oh! I was tempted to get that shirt too. It’s pretty sick.”

Feeling a little self-conscious you avoided his fixed gaze, “Yeah. Their designer for this tour’s merch did an awesome job…”

Jungkook nodded mostly to himself, believing that he was making you uncomfortable. “Listen, sorry if I’m making this awkward but my name’s Jungkook, and I think you seem really cool. But if I’m bothering you, totally let me know and I can give you your space! No hard feelings or anything.”

You smiled at his frankness and shook your head at this. “No, no. Sorry, I think you seem cool too, and I don’t mind at all.” You said before giving your name as well.

“That’s a pretty name,” he responded. “It suits you.” 

You politely laughed off the subtle compliment. “Thank you, and I hope so.”

Steadily, you and Jungkook became deeply immersed in conversation – talking about how long you both had been fans of the artist, why you both ended up attending this concert alone, and getting to know each other generally. Most significantly, you found out that you both attended the same university and were the same age among the many things discussed. The conversation flowed comfortably after that initial interaction. That hour before showtime had passed so quickly that you hadn’t noticed how much the venue had filled up and gradually forced you and Jungkook to be shoulder to shoulder from how packed it had become. By the time the venue fell dark and signaling that Epik High was about to set foot on stage, the crowd had slightly pushed forward, forcing you to be closer than ever to Jungkook.

“Sorry, I hope this is okay.” He spoke sheepishly at the proximity.

“No worries.” You smiled at him and at that moment the pyrotechnics of the stage went off, as the concert began – strangely calm despite having only met the man not too long before and cheers erupting from the crowd that surrounded you. There was just something about him.

There was always something so human (as cliche as it was) about open mic nights. People stand on stage and recite poems where they bare their souls or sing original songs written about the throes of life. A little appreciation for the small things that you and Jungkook shared. You both enjoyed the local buskers back in Seoul during undergrad, especially around springtime when things overall seemed brighter and full of life. 

You sat with your pineapple tequila as Jungkook went for his whiskey on the rocks, occasionally shaking the ice cubes around in the glass between sips. You both sat at a booth off to the side of the stage where you could get a decent view of the performers. 

“So…” Jungkook started.

You tore your gaze away from the current performer, a girl singing a cover of a Laufey song, to find Jungkook staring at you with a glint in his eye. “...So?”

“I’m honestly surprised you took my offer to spend time with me tonight – with some negotiating, of course but surprised nevertheless.” Jungkook chuckled as he took another sip of his drink. “What was it that convinced you?”

You toyed with a loose strand of hair in contemplation of his words. 

What did convince you? Was it the frustration from the flight fiasco? The fact that you were in New York for the first time? This was a question you only recently started to ponder because saying yes felt so right but you couldn’t explain why.

“I just trust you. And it’s been so long since we’ve been in the same place at the same time.” You began, noting how his eyes have softened at your words. “I honestly didn’t know what to think when you first stood there in front of me, y’know? I kind of thought I was hallucinating. I thought that maybe the stress from all the flight mess was getting to me. 

“I honestly never thought I would cross paths with you ever again, considering how the trajectory of our lives headed. You live in LA, working full-time on your music and touring. I live back in Seoul, where there’s always a deadline looming over me and I have to set off to meet some client. And besides…” You held his stare where there was a gentle smile on his face. “I knew I wanted to spend more time to catch up with you the second we sat back in that coffee shop at the airport.”

Relief and something else that you couldn’t place washed over his face. Was it regret? Was it longing? You didn’t know exactly but you felt his free hand reach for yours from across the booth. The calloused fingers of his hand from hours of playing guitar caressed yours as he stared at the way they connected. Still a perfect fit. Your first real bit of physical connection since that fateful day when you were both 21 and young and dumb and lost. 

“Yeah, me too.” Jungkook started. “But for me, it was the moment before you even saw me. When my eyes found you at the gate, I seriously couldn’t believe it.”

You laughed at this. “Well, I hope that time has done me well since you last saw me.”

Jungkook chuckled as well as he cocked his head to the side. “Are you kidding? You look phenomenal. I’m convinced you always will.”

“Oh, shut up. You’re trying to butter me up.” You joked but deep down, the intensity of the intimacy scared you. It was like a fireplace left dormant for so long had finally lit up. It surged through your whole body and you weren’t sure how to deal with it. You withdrew your hand back slowly and instantly regretted the coldness from the loss of contact. However, it frightened you with all things considered. “You’ve always been such a charmer.”

Jungkook’s expression faltered when you fully pulled back your hand but he tried his best to hide it. Holding your hand just felt so right, like it was the divine providence of the universe – written in the stars and made to fit. No other body could bring the warmth he felt from when he was around you. He was convinced that with your every step, flowers bloomed and skies cleared. He was always a goner for you, and that still stands true to this day. 

How funny the universe was, Jungkook thought to himself, that it could create someone so wonderful but have them exist on a different path from his. 

“Alright, alright! That was a fantastic cover from Gina. Let’s give her a round of applause, everyone!” The MC and presumed owner of the bar stepped on stage and spoke into the mic, grabbing everyone’s attention. “Now, we have a guest singer that I saw sign up, his name is JK Jeon. Let’s give him a warm welcome!”

You whipped your head to face a sheepish Jungkook finishing the last bits of his whiskey before he patted you on the head and headed towards the stage. “When did he…”

The leather-jacketed, confident lead singer Jeon Jungkook of Bring the Soul appeared before you as he adjusted the mic stand and introduced himself in perfect, unaccented English. “Hi everyone, my name is JK. I signed up because this is one of my favorite places in New York so I thought I’d sing something for you, especially because there’s also someone important here with me today.” 

His eyes locked with yours in that moment and you forgot to breathe for a second. He looked so otherworldly in that bar, he had the aura to make the dingiest stage look like some elaborate arena. He was born to perform.

Your second pineapple tequila arrived and it was a much heavier pour from the bartender. However, you were grateful as the surge of emotions overcame you. Everything was feeling surreal again and you definitely needed this drink despite being a little bit of a lightweight.

“So, this song is titled ‘seasons’ by a band called wave to earth. Hope you enjoy it.” 

With that, he signaled for the song to start and the first keys of a piano filled the dim bar. Not once did Jungkook’s eyes leave yours as he sang. You were absolutely bewitched as the song progressed, and so was the rest of the bar. A couple across the room embraced each other, two friends shared a toast of their drinks with a lively clank, and the bartender even paused to take in Jungkook’s singing… all these people were brought together by his undeniable talent. Your heart was so full and you were so proud, and distracted until you really started to listen to the lyrics of the song.

But I'll pray for you all the time

If I could be by your side

I'll give you all my life, my seasons

By your side, I'll be your seasons

My love

A thunderous applause surged through the bar as Jungkook thanked the audience and stepped off the stage fluidly before heading straight for the booth where you still sat. However, instead of sitting across from you, he slid into the bench where you were and settled right next to you.

“How was that?” Jungkook’s arm naturally went around your shoulders and you swore you were soaring. 

You rested your head on his bicep as you gazed up at him, and Jungkook was swooning at how adorable you looked then. The dim, soft lights make you look ethereal to him. “It was amazing, as always.”

“Yeah?” 

“Yeah.”

“Cool.” Jungkook stroked your hair as you continued to rest your head on his arm. He could tell you were beginning to feel your drinks in your system since you had long finished your two pineapple tequilas and were now babysitting a pint of beer. 

“Hey, Jungkook.” He barely caught it as you basically whispered it out. “Y’know, I’m going to be really sad about everything once morning comes.”

His eyes widened as he shared the same sentiments. “Yeah… me, too.”

“But!” You suddenly shot upright in posture and surprised him as you grabbed your drink by its handle. “None of that dramatic ‘goodbye’ shit in the morning!” You tipsily pointed at Jungkook with your beer who only laughed at your theatrics as some foam spilled.

Between chuckles, Jungkook was barely able to let out at the sudden shift in mood. “Okay, then what do we say at the end? When it’s morning time?”

“What people always say at that time – ‘good morning’ and not goodbye. Let’s make it a nice ending for us, I feel like that would do us both justice.” Your gaze was too hazy to see the seriousness that lined his face but he shook it off and plastered his signature smile despite the storm in his heart. “I know it’s a little cheesy, but I don’t want to be sad in those last minutes with you.”

“Okay, we’ll bid each other ‘good morning’ when dawn comes then we go on with the rest of our lives. No sad stuff.” You missed how tight-lipped his grin was. 

“Promise?”

“Yeah, I promise.”

“Alright, follow me!” Jungkook called from over his shoulder as he jogged to catch the door to the rooftop of some swanky highrise apartment complex that you two managed to sneak into. 

He held the door open for you, with his free hand exaggeratedly ushering you to go first like a medieval knight. “After you, m’lady.”

By this time, the alcohol had flushed out of your system on the twenty-minute walk Jungkook had brought you on after hearing about how much you wanted to see the skyline but didn’t want to pay a ridiculous amount for a view. And this is where it led you: on the lounge rooftop of a luxury apartment building. The twinkling lights of the city sparked beneath you. The haphazard spacing of the lights from nearby buildings were windows into the lives of the people who occupied the space. Then, you had the great Empire State Building literally blocks away, its spire brightly illuminating the night. To your right, there was a patch of darkness that was Central Park. 

You were breathless at the sight before you. Suddenly, you felt connected with every fiber of your being. The light midnight breeze that swam between your loose strands of hair felt like a glass of fresh water as it revitalized you. There you were, in New York City – looking at it from a bird’s eye point of view. Nothing could have ever prepared you for this. 

You then felt Jungkook stand close next to you as he bumped his shoulder with yours playfully. “How is it?”

“It’s so beautiful.” It took everything in you to tear your gaze away from the view to look at Jungkook. “How did you know about this place?”

He snickered mischievously. “One of the label’s former execs used to live in this building. He used to talk about it all the time and I couldn’t help but remember it. Glad it lived up to all the talk though, it is gorgeous up here.”

And with that, he began to walk over to the outdoor couch hidden behind the privacy of a cabana in front of a fire pit. He turned it on effortlessly before plopping down on the couch right beside the glass-protected edge of the building for what you assumed to be a maximum viewing experience. You followed and sat down, his arm naturally finding its way wrapped behind your shoulders. 

“I never thought I would be able to experience something like this,” you marveled at the night skyline with an at-ease smile on your face, letting your body fit into a nook created by Jungkook’s. “Never would I think feeling so small like this would be so comforting. I don’t regret this at all.”

Absentmindedly, Jungkook’s hand began to play with one of the strands of your hair. “Yeah, same. I regret a lot of things, but this definitely wouldn’t be one – not by a long shot.”

“Oh? Like what kind of regrets?” You asked him, scared to look into his eyes at that moment. 

“Letting my insecurities and tendencies for perfectionism get the best of me. There were so many times when it got in the way of being present. Whether it be with the band, my life… and you.” His hand froze as he cleared his throat. “I regret letting you go. And I feel like the biggest idiot on the face of the earth, y’know? I thought that I had to be successful to be worthy of your love. To be worthy of someone so utterly beautiful inside and out. You were truly my morning light. And I hurt you. I hurt you because I was insecure and so lost in my head.” He blew out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding. “And Y/N, I can’t even begin to explain how much it kills me to sit here with you knowing I did that. And I think that’s because my heart will always be yours, y’know. And I know I’m rambling but I’ve been meditating on this for the past few years because it always bothered me to hear how great and peachy things were for you with that Seokjin guy from Yoongi-hyung, I… don’t know…”

You sat up and finally made eye contact with Jungkook at his confession, resting a comforting hand on his chest. “Jungkook, can I tell you something?”

“Of course.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about…” You whispered as Seokjin stood before you under a streetlight at the park not too far from his apartment. 

“My love, I just can’t do this anymore. I love you so much but it’s time we both be honest.” Seokjin reached for your gloved hand. It was the tail end of autumn and the first signs of winter were beginning to make its appearance. “I don’t think we should meet anymore.”

Tears lined your eyes but the rush of the emotion present was so foreign to you. You knew you should have been sadder and while you were sad... However, at that point, you realized that you were more sorrowful about losing Seokjin as a person in your life than your actual romantic relationship ending. That’s when it hit you, the tears falling. “How did you…”

“My love, you're one of the most intelligent people I know but I don’t think you even realized it yourself. But your heart isn’t in it with me. And that’s okay, I’ll always have a soft spot for you and I’m sure you know that.” Seokjin sighed as he respectfully let go of your hand and took a definitive step back, still handsome and composed. “I’m afraid I just can’t keep fighting like this for a love that was never meant to be mine in the first place.”

“I think that it will always be you.” You whispered, at this point your lips just mere centimeters from Jungkook’s. 

“It’ll always be you, too,” Jungkook responded, too drunk in your perfume and the feeling of your being so close to his. “Y/N, can I tell you something now?”

“Of course.”

“Would it be okay if I kissed you right now?”

Wordlessly, you closed the gap between you two. The second your lips connected, it felt a lot like a warm summer day. Electricity turned static force kept you connected like that. Soon, lips moved in sync like rolling ocean waves during low tide. Hands lost in hair and tracing all the valleys of each other’s bodies, leaving goosebumps at they traversed every familiar inch. Jungkook’s plush lips felt so homey and so right. Your hand went right back to resting on his chest, feeling the intense beating of his heart. A pace set for you only. 

It hurt so much to have to disconnect so you both could catch your breath. 

“Wow…” Jungkook licked the last taste of you off his lips, savoring the moment with his eyes closed and forehead rested upon yours. “I missed this so fucking much. I missed you so much.” 

“Please kiss me again...” Your eyes gazed into his and he obliged happily. 

And your lips found each other again just like that.

Hands grew more adventurous as the kiss grew more heated. Jungkook’s calloused and cold hands made their way under your shirt, cupping your tender breasts through your bra. At this, you gently pushed him to sit back further on the couch so you could climb on top. The second you straddled his hips, you began to grind down onto his clothed dick, earning you a grunt of satisfaction. His hands grew impatient as he then pushed your shirt and bra up to reveal perky nipples, the chill of the night making them more erect. 

“You look a little cold, baby. But don’t worry, I’ll take care of you.” He said before taking one nipple into his mouth and his free hand making sure the other wasn’t left unattended. You couldn’t help the moan that escaped you as he was living up to his words. 

You reached down between your bodies and slipped them into his denim jeans, feeling his hot and heavy dick in the palm of your hands. This got you another grunt from Jungkook, suddenly you were on your back lying down on the couch and Jungkook flashed you his charismatic smile. “Getting a little handsy, I see.” He leaned down and began kissing your neck, remembering your sweet spot despite your time apart. It was his turn for his hand to slip into your pants, gathering your slick between his fingers to play with your clit.  “Baby, let me eat you out, okay?”

You could have easily come right then and there. 

You barely managed a nod as you felt him pull down your jeans and panties in tow after kicking off your sneakers. Once off, Jungkook sat back as he in the sight of your sprawled like that before him. Snapping out of his daze, he crouched down and just lost all sense of shame the second his mouth tasted you. Sucking rhythmically on your clit, rubbing circles on your inner thigh, it was all too much. The sloppy sounds of his saliva mixing in with your wetness were all you could focus on as you felt your walls tighten on nothing. 

“Jungkook, baby, your fingers…”

He didn’t need to be told twice as he continued his string of slurps on your pussy and inserted one finger, beginning to stretch you out. The loudest moan escaped you embarrassingly considering you both were in a public place. However Jungkook didn’t care, he was making up for lost time after all. And then another long digit went inside you, pumping wildly and that was it.

The threads of the rope in your stomach were wound so tight that the fine fibers were beginning to give. Jungkook knew your undoing was near so he continued his onslaught of your pussy with his mouth and fingers. Soon enough, the rope snapped, your eyes sealed shut as you saw white and your jaw went slack while you continued to leak out. Your body felt utterly buoyant, among the clouds, and your mind far ahead of your physical being. How long had it been since you came like that?

Jungkook happily lapped up your cum like a man who had gone without water. “You look so fucking beautiful, so beautiful.”

“Need you… inside…” You finally said as you came to and began to remove Jungkook’s leather jacket and his white tee. “More, I want more of you…”

His smile shined as the bottom half of his face was proudly covered in your slick. That dazed smile stayed plastered as he undid the bucket of his belt, the jingle of his pants and boxers hitting his ankles had you in anticipation. 

“Your wish is my command, baby. All yours… I’m all yours” He continued to toy with your already sensitive clit as he began to gently push himself inside your tight core. Both your eyes went wide with how good the tight fit was. It took everything in Jungkook to not come at that moment. His eyes only got a glimpse of the delectable scene of where he entered you before he had to screw them shut in concentration. “You feel so good as always, could die like this.”

You began to move around him, wanting friction and he took that as his sign to start moving as well. What started as slow and steady, became desperate and erratic. He hovered over you, his lips on the valley of your neck and hand gripping onto your breast as you felt every single velvet inch of him fuck you. Your arms wrapped around his neck, trying to pull him closer if that was even possible. It was all-consuming, it was otherworldly. He hit you in all the right places and it was so good that you didn’t know what to do with yourself. 

“Jungkook, just like that, baby. Let’s come together, okay?” You spoke into his ears which kicked him into overdrive. You were so full of him. His hand fondling your painfully erect nipple, his mouth right on the spot he knew would have you, and Jungkook groaned as you clenched him so tight, having him reach his own undoing. A sheen of sweat lined Jungkook’s forehead as he cocked a focused brow. He drank in the fucked out image of you, encouraging him to thrust into you even more sporadically despite how sensitive you both were.

It felt so right to be filled up with his cum, with his dick, with him. 

The two of you sat there in that fucked out state for a couple more minutes to catch your breath again. 

Eventually, Jungkook got up with that dopey smile still on his face as he began to dress you despite still lying on the couch and straighten your clothes. He punctuated each movement with a peck on your swollen lips. His movements were more delicate and tender compared to the heated desperation from moments ago. Once he was dressed as well, he collapsed with you on the couch with his arm slung around you.

“You’re so beautiful.” He made eye contact again, however his airy smile faltered at seeing your bittersweet expression make another appearance. “Hey, baby… what’s wrong?”

“Where do we go from here, Jungkook?” You asked as you reached for his face, caressing a cheek with your thumb. “Because now I’m going to be even more sad when morning comes…”

Fuck. Jungkook had been so caught up in that moment that he didn’t realize what the consequences would be after the fact. While he sure as hell didn’t regret what happened, he didn’t want to hurt you any more than he already has. 

“It doesn’t have to be like that… we can work something out. I can figure something out. I just – I just don’t want you to regret this, regret us… Just give me some time to think and I can –”

You quietly stopped him with a shake of your head, letting him know that it was okay. “It’s okay, you belong in LA, where your life is now. And I belong in Seoul, where my life is now – I know that much. I can’t ask you to uproot your life and give up the band, nor could I leave Seoul given everything happening at home. Just know that I don’t regret this, not at all. However, it’ll be quite sad when morning comes.”

Jungkook could only nod at the heaviness of your words. While they were a hard pill to swallow, they were correct. Both those things rang true in his head. He ached for you so much now he had another taste of life with you, but you both knew there was nowhere to go from here. By late noon, you’ll already be on a flight back to Seoul and he’ll be headed to Vienna to start the European leg of Bring the Soul’s tour. 

“I’ll be sad when morning comes, too. Irrevocably sad.” Jungkook knew that would be the extent of all he could say then. 

Silently, he sat upright where he led you to rest your head in his lap. He looked down at you fondly, a matching bittersweet expression on his face as he began to stroke your hair. A quiet promise was exchanged between you both to enjoy these last moments of intimacy before the sun rose. 

You both had fallen asleep on that rooftop lounge. Then you woke up around 6AM to Jungkook trying to get you up, talking about taking you to one more place before the night was officially over. Eventually, you both were jogging out of the luxury apartment building, hand in hand, as the two of you entered the subway station to head southwest to the piers to catch the sunrise. 

It was a solemn train ride, to say the least. Both of you avoided each other’s eyes on the ride, like anxious teenage lovers who experienced their first quarrel. It was hell, and the time when you both got off at your correct stop couldn’t have come sooner. His hands still intertwined with yours as you walked off into the morning world, the sun beginning to make its appearance known. The morning’s dew still coated the patches of grass as you both traveled to the edge of the pier which overlooked the water. 

At this point, the blue hour had long passed as the bright star that is our sun began to peek through the horizon. The sky turned from midnight blue to a vibrant yellow with hints of orange. That’s it. This is it…

The morning had officially come. 

You cursed every cliched metaphor referencing the elusiveness of time… the grains of sand slipping through fingertips, the ticking of clock hands that echo in the back of your head, the passage of breezes, and the eventual rising of the morning sun. 

Jungkook smiled gently, wiping away a tear with his thumb which you didn’t even feel form as it fell down your cheek. “Don’t worry.”

“I just want you to know that I loved being in this moment. Sharing this night with you, that tonight it felt like New York was all ours. I could have never seen its beauty and experienced its magic the way I did with you.” Barely managing through your cries, you gasped for a breath as you tried to make out the next words. “But why did things have to turn out this way?”

The loud caws of the seagulls as they flew over the pier and the cold morning air fell onto forgotten senses as the only thing you could feel was the intensity of Jungkook’s stare on you. From your forehead that he placed a tender kiss upon, to your eyes that mirrored that silent longing his contained, the nose that he nuzzled against his, and chin that he held softly in his rough hand… It was like he was taking a picture of you at that moment. A moment where he was not rockstar Jeon Jungkook, but the Jungkook who always found a way to make you laugh and the Jungkook you dreamed of sharing matching rings with. And you were not the person living too fast for anyone to keep up with, but a person who could find the beauty in anything and the person that Jungkook could write a million and one songs about.

“Shh,” he comforted you as his arms wrapped around your shoulders, pulling you into his chest. “I really can’t thank you enough for tonight… I’ve never hated to see morning as much as I do now.” He chuckled dryly at the irony of all. 

You pulled back, surprising the man who towered over you. You held his confused face in your hands and smiled. “Me, too. I hope you know that.”

“I do now…” He whispered as though louder words could break the moment before placing a chaste kiss on one of the hands that cupped his face.

“Now what?” Your hands fell from his face and rested on his chest. 

Jungkook sighed in contemplation as he peered past you into the blossoming orange horizon before recentering his eyes on you and grin losing its warmth, being replaced with sadness. “Good morning, I guess.”

The gravity of the situation settled upon you both silently.

“None of that dramatic ‘goodbye’ shit in the morning!” You tipsily pointed at Jungkook with your beer who only laughed at your theatrics as some foam spilled.

Between chuckles, Jungkook was barely able to let out. “Okay, then what do we say at the end? When it’s morning?”

“What people always say at that time – ‘good morning’ and not goodbye. Let’s make it a nice ending for us, I feel like that would do us both justice.” Your gaze was too hazy to see the seriousness that lined his face but he shook it off and plastered his signature smile despite the storm in his heart. “I know it’s a little cheesy, but I don’t want to be sad in those last minutes with you.”

“Okay, we’ll bid each other ‘good morning’ when dawn comes then we go on with the rest of our lives. No sad stuff.”

“Promise?”

“Yeah, I promise.”

“Good morning, Jungkook.” No matter how dazzling your smile was, Jungkook could never be distracted from the tears that lined your gorgeous eyes. 

No physical closeness could ever combat the weight of what daybreak meant for you both.

“For JK?” The driver of the Uber called out of the window as he pulled up. 

You and Jungkook stood before each other again, hand in hand for the final time. You squeezed his rough hand, a wordless command of it’s time to let go. And just like that, his hand – despite its hesitation – followed and released its grip on yours. No matter how disheveled you both may have looked from the sleepless night of journeying, it all felt surreal.

“Good morning, Y/N.”

“Good morning, Jungkook.”

Then one more quick kiss before you had gotten into the car he ordered for you and began the journey back to your life. A life without Jeon Jungkook. You rode with the window down, taking the sight of New York in a new day’s light. It felt so foreign and so different from the New York you experienced in the last fifteen hours with Jungkook. That taxi driver was right, you were convinced, that New York was a magical place and had so much more to offer. 

You abruptly felt something wrinkle in the pocket of your jeans as you adjusted yourself in the backseat of the car. Reaching in, you fished out a Katz’s Deli napkin and remembered how Jungkook was writing on it when you had excused yourself to go to the bathroom. You carefully unfolded the napkin and read what was written on it: I’m sure by the time you’ll see this, you would’ve given me the most memorable night I could never forget even if someone were to beat it out of me. I’m dreading sunrise as I write this right now. Though, I’ll hold close what tonight has in store for us. I don’t know if our paths will ever cross again, but I’m sure that this was the most beautiful sunrise I could ever experience because it was with you.

You pondered the possibilities as the heartache fully set in from reading his note. What if you told this Uber to turn around right now? What if you stayed longer? What if you took Jungkook’s offer to figure something out? What if you didn’t have to say goodbye on that forsakenly beautiful pier? What if?

However, it no longer mattered. 

This was the reality you both lived in. 

You had the connection, felt it again, and let it take its course. 

That was what mattered. No what ifs, maybes, or perhapses. What matters is only what happened and that it, in fact, did happen. 

Jungkook watched your car disappear into the morning traffic commute, gone was the warmth that you both shared on that chilly spring morning. He began to laugh at himself, at how cruel the universe was. It could have been perfect. It could have been the ultimate love story. It all could’ve. 

Jungkook kicked a random pebble in his path as he finally looked at his phone log after putting his phone on Do Not Disturb for the whole duration with you.

Min Yoongi | 2 Missed Calls

FROM: Min Yoongi | Where the fuck did you run off to?

Park Jimin | 6 Missed Calls

FROM: Park Jimin | Yah, where’d you go??

FROM: Park Jimin | Please tell me you didn’t do anything stupid I swear to god Jeon Jungkook 

Kim Taehyung | 5 Missed Calls

FROM: Kim Taehyung | You bastard, don’t tell me you went off to explore New York on your own

FROM: Kim Taehyung | Broooo, you didn’t even check in to your hotel room? You should’ve told meeeeeee

FROM: Kim Taehyung | You’re so foul for leaving me just to be bored while you went on a night adventure of the city that never sleeps smfh

Manager Sejin | 13 Missed calls

FROM: Manager Sejin | Kid, where the HELL did you go? Call me back asap

FROM: Manager Sejin | Jungkook this isn’t funny

Jungkook laughed at the missed notifications from the group and his manager before giving Yoongi a call back, reasoning that he would be the most level-headed given all the missed notifications after sending a quick message. 

TO GROUP: Bring the Soul | Hey, I’m ok lol. I’m at the pier

The caller's ring sounded twice before Yoongi picked up groggily, but still picked up nonetheless. “Where the hell did you go last night?”

“Just hanging around. New York is a magical place, hyung.” Jungkook responded vaguely but Yoongi caught the hint of bittersweetness in the younger’s tone. 

“Alright… We’re about to get breakfast at a restaurant close to you. I’ll text you the address. Meet us there by 9AM.”

“Sounds good, hyung.”

“Okay. And uh… are you alright?” 

Damn Yoongi’s intuition, Jungkook thought to himself and sighed into the receiver of his cell phone. 

“Yeah… it’s a damn good morning after all.” 

© bbangtans | please do not re-distribute in any way without permission.

#bbangtans ff #jungkook #bts fanfic #bbangtans jk ff #bts #jungkook x y/n #bts x reader #bts fanfiction #jeon jungkook #jeon jungkook x reader #jungkook x reader #jungkook smut #jungkook fanfic #jungkook bts #jungkook fluff #jungkook scenarios #jungkook imagine #jungkook x you #jungkook fic

[carionto]

How to beat Deathworlders

I don't know what I want to write and it's a little frustrating. So, to fix that, I'm just gonna throw this at me - Giant Ant Planet

The first call to arms Humanity has declared. They mobilize with unseen speed and precision seven of their mightiest Dreadnoughts, hundreds of transports, and amass fifty thousand soldiers, fully armed and trained on the target.

They are headed to a world Humans scouted as having great potential for life to flourish. How correct they were.

In orbit above the planet Chromathium-2-4, the station Truncated Crescent Ellipses was tasked with conducting experiments to test the viability of Human-digestible flora and fauna living on Chromatoff (as the scientists began to call it for short).

When the fleet arrived, the final message from the station turned out to be true - it had crash landed on the surface. From the chaos of the recordings they received, there was a containment breach and the systems were under attack by some unknown electronic waves and incomprehensible code. A hostile act, but by who?

This was two weeks ago. Whoever it was, they would know the wrath of Humanity. Once we find your traces, there will be no hiding for long.

Preliminary scans show the station was dead and only local creatures and plants appeared, in greater density than elsewhere, but no matter. Just some animals.

The first unmanned craft landed and began exploring the wreckage. All of the digital systems were fried, not a hint of power remained anywhere. Attempts to manually power anything up proved fruitless - the data had been replaced with pure garbage code. Then, the drone vanished underground and went silent. Connection failure.

Orbital sights showed nothing, all frequencies were monitored and were free of unaccounted signals. The next group of drones descended and shortly after touchdown they too were seemingly devoured by the ground, all power and electronic signals cut.

A deep scan showed the same dense biological activity, but looking closer at the data it was like a carpet just below the actual surface layer. And for whatever reason the pulse couldn't penetrate below a few meters. Scanning areas further from the crash revealed a much more detailed and sparsely populated map going down the expected three kilometers.

For the third attempt they kept several drones above the landed ones at different altitudes. The moment the drones on the ground were vanished again, a sudden signal struck the ones floating up to seventy meters above and cut them off as well, but didn't seem to reach any beyond that. The visual was not as detailed as they'd like, but it was enough - the tips of large pincers and antennae and beady eyes. Ants.

The fleet maintained a perimeter around the entire system just in case, and spent half a day consulting professionals and former colleagues of the deceased scientists to get a better understanding of the current situation.

Two experiments the team had worked on before and supposedly continued when relocated to the new station stood out - metabolic acceleration, and unassisted neural interfacing via modified brain waves. Far from the wildest here, such as the self-relocating giant sequoia, but ones that offered a plausible explanation.

Ants serve a variety of critical functions in the maintenance of an ecosystem, so naturally they are a part of most late stage terraforming efforts.

Here, however, something went wrong and they evolved alongside technology at an intimate level. Perhaps deliberately made to do so.

They are spreading fast too. Twelve hours ago the "carpet" of underground ants was roughly two square kilometers. Now it was close to three and a half. In mere weeks they may spread across the entire continent, perhaps make it across (or below?) the seas somehow and ravenously consume all life on this planet before succumbing to extinction themselves.

This world is bountiful. Also, we're here already. Hmm...

Eh, may as well. Plenty of us have seen Starship Troopers and only joined to hopefully one day shoot at alien bugs. Guess these are more like home grown critters, but whatever.

With that brazen attitude (and a quick orbital bombardment) the troop ships landed, well, were forced to crash land the final few meters, but whatever electromagnetic warfare these ants were throwing our way didn't account for reinforced alloy armor and hand-held rail guns. Their sharp pincers, acid throwers, and thick carapaces did however.

Actually, fucking hell, they move real fast underground. Uhh...

This isn't looking so good in retrospect. Did they add cockroach DNA in these bastards too? Some of them literally don't care about losing their head, what the fuck!?

Okay, holy shit, abort mission! Good thing we still install regular ignition engines as an added redundancy to the military ships. Not very fast or efficient, but screw you, burn beneath the thrusters. BURN!

*deep breath*

Okay. So. We lost 831 soldiers, and 4625 are injured. And the ant casualties don't matter cuz they're ants. Super mutant ants. Who are going to take over the world if we don't nuke them. Which might not work anyway because HUMAN scientists made them.

Hoisted by our own petard or something.

Right, let's just chalk it up as a... military exercise gone wrong and quarantine the planet. Wait, make that the whole system.

...so this is what it must've felt like to lose the Emu War...

#humans are space orcs #humans are space australians #humans are space oddities #humans are deathworlders #humanity fuck yeah #story #scifi #carionto #ant #giant ants #you can really see where my brain process switched

[beefromanoff]

Project Mockingbird Ch. 12

summary: Charlotte bonds with Calla while the team is gone until something big interrupts the night.

pairing: Bucky Barnes x OC

author's note: wooooo, a long chapter! we're picking up steam over here! let me know what you think!

tag list: @bangtanxberm @scott-loki-barnes (let me know if you want to be added <3)

chapter list

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The compound was fully awake and buzzing with the news of what had happened earlier that morning as Charlotte headed to the hangar for her next challenge — piloting the Quinjet. A particularly bold group of agents gawked at her as they ran by in a pack, whispering to each other. 

“I heard she almost killed Agent Scott,” One muttered to the agent jogging beside her. 

“If you can still talk then you aren’t running hard enough, agents!” Maria Hill barked from behind the group, feet kicked up on the dash of the cart she was riding in. She winked at Charlotte as they drove by.

Taking a deep breath, she let the wave of irritation roll off of her. Most of the actual agents were kind, professional, tactful. It was the trainees that caused the most trouble. The ones who were top of their class at whatever Ivy League school they went to, high ranking in the military or CIA or whichever organization they’d been recruited from. They felt like they were on top of the world after being accepted into SHIELD’s elite training program. It showed. Eventually, the egomaniacal ones would be weeded out. Either by dismissal from the program or being humbled in action. Until then, they’d continue being the thorn in her side. At the very least, she didn’t seem to be the only one who had problems with their egos, if Calla’s lack of disciplinary action towards her opening a can of whoop-ass earlier said anything.

The hangar looked larger than life, even more imposing in the daylight than it had looked before sunrise. Sleek slate gray walls rose high above her head, massive doors open to allow the aircraft to pass in and out. A long row of Quinjets spread down the side of the building, ready for takeoff at a moments’ notice. A few more remained inside the hangar for maintenance, or enhancements being made. 

A seasoned pilot, Lieutenant Rodriguez, awaited her by the hangars entrance. "You ready for this, Agent Rossi?"

"As ready as I'll ever be," Charlotte replied, suppressing the flutter of nerves. “You can call me Charlotte, by the way.” 

Rodriguez nodded and led her towards one of the Quinjets being serviced. They approached the base of the jet, a cool spring breeze blowing through the massive open hangar door. Slowly, they walked around the outside of the aircraft, with Agent Rodriguez pointing out every feature from the hover mechanics to the shield generator to the ballistics hidden beneath the shell. He explained the science behind stealth mode and the adaptations made for the most recent fleet. Finally, he paused at the base of the ramp. 

“Any questions so far?” 

She shook her head. “No sir.” 

He paused, doing a double take at her. “Do you really have that…perfect memory?”

“I don’t know about perfect,” She shrugged. “Let’s just say it’s pretty difficult for me to forget anything without extensive shock therapy. Don’t recommend, by the way.” 

Agent Rodriguez cleared his throat, not sure how to respond. “Well, shall we?” 

They strode up the ramp into the Quinjet, where he did the same in-depth history lesson on the entire interior. Charlotte had a feeling all of this detail probably wasn’t necessary, but she heard him out anyway. They finally made their way to the cockpit where he talked through the controls, explaining each one patiently. The quinjet's complexity was astounding, but it was surprisingly simple to pilot, seeing as it was meant to be flown in high stakes combat situations. They’d evolved to be intuitive and easy to control in case the pilot was under duress while flying. She took a deep breath, trying not to think of her friends who’d flown one into a dangerous place just that morning. After the entire instrument panel had been explained, Agent Rodriguez switched the aircraft into simulation mode, where she could get the feel for all the controls without actually getting airborne…yet.

"First, familiarize yourself with the navigation controls," Rodriguez instructed. "Feel the thrusters respond to your touch."

The hangar echoed with the hum of the quinjet's engines as Charlotte tentatively manipulated the controls. The aircraft responded, but her movements were hesitant.

"Confidence is key, Charlotte. The quinjet is an extension of yourself," Rodriguez advised.

Charlotte nodded, absorbing the advice. She pushed herself to grow accustomed to the controls, gradually gaining confidence. It wasn’t that she was afraid of flying, she really didn’t mind it. It was more of the unfamiliarity, of being in control of something so massive. She’d only really been exposed to this kind of technology for the past two years. She’d never even driven a car before. Skipping straight to the highest-tech aircraft in existence felt like a giant leap. Rodriguez observed her progress as they moved through different aspects, offering guidance when needed.

“Alright, are you ready to take it out for a spin?” 

Charlotte swung her head around to look at him, gaping. “What? Now? Today?” 

“I don’t see why not. You’ve mastered everything I’ve told you so far, and these are equipped with emergency autopilot activation, so if you take your hands off of the controls, it’ll keep you airborne all on its own.” 

She raised an eyebrow, assessing his calm demeanor. “Alright. I suggest you buckle up, though. I don’t even have a drivers’ license.” 

He didn’t seem phased, but clicked the buckle across his chest anyways, chuckling. Charlotte was grateful for his patience as he talked her through how to steer the jet out the open hangar door. When he finished and looked at her expectantly, she bit her lip. 

“Would you mind to…could you just show me first?” She ran a hand through her hair. “I’m more of a…visual learner.” 

He smiled and nodded. “Of course.” As he talked through what he was doing, Charlotte locked in on his movements. The order he flipped switches on, the pressure he applied to the joysticks, the directions his eyes flicked and what he was monitoring. Every detail locked into place in her brain as he gently set the jet down on the landing pad outside the hangar. As sunlight streamed in the massive windshield, she took a deep breath, cycling through the steps she’d just committed to memory.

"Your turn. Remember what I said about altitude control," Rodriguez said, guiding her through the process of lifting the quinjet off the ground. As the aircraft ascended, Charlotte's heart flipped. Her movements were mechanical, perfectly imitating what she’d seen him do, reciting the steps out loud as if she was reading from a textbook.

For the next hour, they practiced navigation, altitude adjustments, and basic maneuvers. Rodriguez praised her improvements, but Charlotte's tension lingered. From her training with Bucky, she was well aware of her own weakness. She could learn, but she had to be able to adapt. It was easy for her to watch Agent Rodriguez perform a maneuver and then precisely execute it in the exact same circumstance, but would she be able to perform this skill outside of this scenario? Could she execute the same sharply banked turn in an airborne firefight with an enemy? Could she pull this steep climb up the face of a cliff during an escape? Would she be able to take off during mass chaos inside the cockpit, where she didn’t have the luxury of pacing herself exactly as he had done it? Her training with Bucky had admittedly given her many useful skills, but it had taken away the blind confidence she had in her abilities to learn and then do. She couldn’t mimic something she’d never seen. Almost every mission would require spur of the moment decisions, flexibility, growth. She wouldn’t have someone to absorb information from. She had to know these things inside and out and be able to perform them when it counted. That’s what was making her grip the controls like a vice. Not the fear of heights, not the speed, but the pressure of truly learning this so that when it mattered…she wouldn’t need to be rescued.

As the lesson progressed, Charlotte found herself settling into a rhythm. 

"Alright, Charlotte, let's try a controlled descent," Rodriguez suggested. “Do you want me to show you first and then we can go back up for you to try?”

She stopped herself before she could say yes. “Actually, I’d like to try this one myself first. Can you talk me through it? Like we’re on comms?” 

He nodded, giving her a reassuring smile before giving her step by step instructions. It was a little rockier than the ascent, with her relying on the human side of her brain rather than the enhanced. As she got the hang of it, they descended more smoothly, and Charlotte marveled at the sensation of control she was gaining. By the time they touched back on the landing pad, Charlotte had logged several hours of flight time. She taxied the quinjet back into the hangar, feeling a mix of exhaustion and accomplishment.

"Great job, Agent Rossi. You've got the potential to be a skilled pilot," Rodriguez commended her, extending a hand for her to shake. “Charlotte.”

______

The atmosphere in Calla's quarters was warm and welcoming as Charlotte stepped inside the next night. The apartment, though much smaller than the communal Avengers space, exuded a cozy charm. The aroma of pasta wafted through the air, instantly making Charlotte's stomach growl.

"Hope you're hungry. I'm no culinary expert, but my Italian blood picks up the slack," Calla said, a playful grin on her face.

"Hungry doesn't even begin to cover it," Charlotte replied, realizing how famished she was after her intensive training session. The team had only been gone two days and she was shocked at how much she struggled with the isolation. She’d been on her own for two years, and in the couple months she’d been with the team, it had become her new normal. Her very much preferred normal. The past two days, she’d avoided the common room as much as possible. It felt too big and empty. Even the grounds with the other agents felt preferable to that. Luckily after yesterday morning’s incident, no one seemed too keen to harass her. Between flight lessons, doing solo simulations in the training room, and her normal strength and conditioning; she was beat. It was a welcome relief when Calla had sent word through FRIDAY to invite her to dinner. 

"So, Calla," Charlotte began, sipping from her wine glass, "I'm sure you've got some interesting stories from your time here. What's it like working with the Avengers?"

Calla chuckled, a warmth in her eyes as she recalled various encounters. "Oh, where do I even begin? Well, there was this one time when Tony accidentally activated his suit's repulsors during a team meeting. Papers everywhere, and he blamed it on a malfunction."

Charlotte laughed, imagining the scene. "Classic Tony. Always the showman, even in mishaps."

"Exactly," Calla agreed, "But it's not just the tech mishaps. I once had to explain to Thor why we couldn't replicate the flavor of Asgardian mead in a pill form. That was a challenging day."

They settled at the small dining table, laden with plates of pasta, fresh bread and two glasses of wine. Charlotte took a bite of the steaming pasta, eyes rolling back at the rich flavor. "This is incredible. You're severely underselling your cooking skills." She took another bite and spoke through a full mouth. “Sam Wilson is a lucky man.”

Calla chuckled. "I'm glad you like it. So, tell me more about your training. Yesterday you mentioned flight lessons?."

"Yeah, it's a learning curve, but I'm getting there," Charlotte said between bites.

“Forgive me for being so forward, but isn’t learning kind of your thing?” Calla’s eyes were kind, not at all teasing or malicious.

“Yeah, you could say that.” Charlotte chuckled, taking a sip of her wine. “It’s complicated. Or maybe I just make it complicated. If I see it, I can mimic it. It’s like my body just…knows what to do. If you tell me something, or if I read something, I remember it. The hard part is with things that I can’t see, can’t imitate. Things like instinct, spur of the moment decisions, situations I haven’t seen before. You can’t teach that stuff.”

Calla paused for a moment, watching her. “That bothers you.” It wasn’t a question.

“Yes.” She twirled the stem of her wine glass between her fingers. “I don’t like feeling incompetent.” 

“From what I’ve seen, you’re far from incompetent. Your abilities make you a force to be reckoned with. Especially considering everything you managed to do before coming here. Getting out of cryofreeze, making your way across the world after not even having seen this decade before? I’d say that’s pretty adaptable.” 

Charlotte chuckled. “Thanks. I know how to survive, I can figure things out. I just feel slower, I guess. I’m used to it being automatic, like it’s programmed into me. Well,” She shrugged. “It is.” 

“I know it doesn’t change anything…but I am sorry. For everything you went through.” She gave a soft smile. 

“Don’t be sorry. We can’t change the past, right? Besides, I wouldn’t ever be able to work an office job anyways.” 

Calla laughed, sensing it was time to change the subject. She volunteered more stories about herself, much to Charlotte’s relief. They talked about her childhood, her experiences in the military, all the juicy details of her love life with Sam. By the time they finished dinner, their stomachs were hurting both from the amount of bread and pasta they’d eaten and the amount of laughing they’d done. 

“So that really makes a black eye go away faster?” Charlotte marveled.

Calla smiled knowingly. "Yep. Cold compresses and arnica gel. Trick of the trade.”

“Damn, where were you when I first got here?” 

“Same place I always am, holed up in the lab!” She winked as she cleared the table.

"So, what's the deal with Bucky?" Charlotte ventured, feigning casual curiosity. “I mean, he and Sam are close, right?”

Calla raised an eyebrow. "You're asking about Barnes? Why? Interested?" She winked.

Charlotte toyed with her hair, "No, no…not like that. Just curious. I mean, he's a bit…prickly."

Calla chuckled. "He’s not exactly warm and fuzzy. You're not the first to be curious. He’s difficult to read. Even Sam wondered where they stood for a while. I think he just decided he and Barnes were friends one day and eventually he stopped fighting it.” 

“That sounds about right,” Charlotte laughed. “The problem is, I can’t tell which one of us is fighting it. I feel like we just don’t…mesh like we should.” 

“Some people would call that sexual tension.” 

“Calla!” 

“I’m just saying.” She shrugged and sipped her wine. 

“It’s definitely not like that.” Charlotte rolled her shoulders, suddenly uncomfortable in her seat. 

“Would you want it to be?” 

“No!” She met Calla’s unconvinced gaze. “It wouldn’t work, it doesn’t make sense. We can’t even make it through a training session together without being at each others’ throats.” 

“Again, some people are into that.” 

Charlotte couldn’t help but laugh at her nonchalance. 

“But seriously, you don’t think Barnes is good looking?” Calla leaned forward on her elbows. 

“Well, he’s obviously good looking. The problem isn’t that. It’s him. He’s too serious, he’s controlling, he’s overbearing and intense and broody. He treats me like I’m helpless, like some stupid kid.” 

“Does he treat you that way or is that just the way you feel?”

“I’m sorry, is this dinner or therapy?” 

“Little of both.” Calla winked. “Well, for what it’s worth, Sam seems to think there’s more to your…dynamic than meets the eye. He said Bucky isn’t easily baited into arguments, but he seems to have a short fuse with you.” 

“Lucky me.” Charlotte rolled her eyes, reaching for the bottle of wine to refill her glass. 

“I’m just saying, the opposite of love isn’t hate. It’s indifference. He is definitely not indifferent when it comes to you.” 

For a moment, Charlotte said nothing. She finished pouring the wine and set the bottle back on the table, taking a slow sip. 

“I don’t see him as the relationship type.”

“So far, he really hasn’t been. Sam, Steve, Nat, and even Tony, have all tried setting him up. But he's a tough one to crack. Even when he obliges them, it usually ends in a polite date at best. He never even calls them back. I think he’s had a few hookups here and there when they go out drinking, or when Stark has parties at the Tower, but he’s pretty private about that stuff. Even from Sam.” 

Charlotte swallowed, throat dry. She hadn’t exactly assumed Bucky had been celibate his whole post-HYDRA life, had she? Truthfully, she hadn’t really thought of it at all. Her life of freedom had only just gotten to the fun part when she was recruited by Natasha. Even so, the fun part hadn’t extended to that kind of fun. Did she expect the same from him? 

Seeming to read the expression on her face, Calla spoke again. “How’s training been? You still feeling okay?” Her eyes flicked to the metal bracelet on Charlotte’s wrist.

“Yeah, more or less. It’s definitely a nuisance, impossible to ignore.” She twisted it around, eying it distastefully. 

“Good. I had a hand in picking out the alarm tone, you know.” She smirked. 

“Of course you did. Just when I was starting to like you.” Charlotte scoffed playfully. “So you’re somehow involved in everything, engaged to one of my roommates, and helped engineer the very bane of my existence…and you stayed completely under the radar the whole time?”

“It’s easy to stay hidden when no one is looking for you.” She smiled. “Were you looking for any signs of Sam being in a relationship? Did you have any interest in the rest of the science and engineering team? Did you try to get to know anyone else in the lab?” 

“I guess not,” Charlotte thought. “You just hid in plain sight.” 

“I’m glad I came out of hiding for this weekend.” Her eyes crinkled at the corners as she raised her glass. 

“Me too.” Charlotte returned her smile, clinking her glass against Calla’s. “I have a question.” 

“Shoot.” 

“Do you get to do your own research, your own experiments? Or do you have assignments?” 

“A little of both. We have projects as a team, goals we’re working towards. Finding breakthroughs for faster healing, perfecting new types of shields and weaponry, things like that. We also have blanket funding for other research we want to conduct. Although, truth be told, I love the research I’m assigned to. It’s hard enough to tear myself away just to eat and sleep.” 

Charlotte nodded slowly. “Are you looking for a new project?”

“Did you have one in mind?” Calla raised an eyebrow. 

“I just…I feel like I’m incomplete. Like they glitched in my programming, or whatever. Mentally, everything is great. I just feel like I’m not where I should be, physically.” She held her wrist up, dangling the bracelet again.

“Charlotte, you’re a genetically engineered super soldier. You’re head and shoulders above the average human in every way. Not to mention the edge you have from your mental enhancements.” Her gaze was wary, her tone more serious. 

“I know, I know. I guess I just wonder what would be possible if someone good had been in charge of…everything. If it could have turned out better.” 

“Human experimentation is a dangerous and unethical game. We don’t condone that here.” 

“What if you had a willing test subject?” 

“Charlotte…are you seiously asking what I think you are?” Her face was incredulous.

“I don’t even really know what I’m asking.” She shifted in her seat. “After you told me your specialties, it just got me thinking. What if we can work together? I mean, HYDRA might still be out there. If they are, they’re definitely working on something bigger and badder. If we want to have an edge, to get to breakthroughs before they do…shouldn’t we try?” Her eyes were wide and genuine. “It’s not like you’d be ruining my life. That train left the station about seventy years ago.” 

Calla chewed her bottom lip, less composed than Charlotte had seen her all night. 

Before she could respond, the quiet atmosphere was shattered by an earth-shaking explosion that reverberated through the compound. The empty plates rattled on the table, wine sloshing in the glasses. Both women sprang to their feet, their eyes wide with alarm.

"What the hell was that?" Charlotte exclaimed, arms out for balance as the tremors slowed down. 

Calla rushed to the balcony, throwing open the door as she ran, her eyes scanning the night sky. "That sounded like an attack outside the shield. But who would dare..."

Before she could finish, the sky erupted in streaks of light as rockets were fired from a distant aircraft. It was a few miles away, but clearly visible in the night sky. They were banking hard, circling back. Their aim wasn’t on the compound itself, but on one of the shield generators. It was deep in the woods, buried underground. Although it was within it’s own protection, if enough damage was done to the ground around it, the displaced earth could damage it even inside the shield. This was one of three generators, but the loss of one would severely increase the load on the others. Another explosion shook the earth as flames exploded into the sky above the treeline. The enemy's assault on the shield protecting the compound was relentless.

Charlotte's heart pounded. She knew the protocols for such situations – rally the Avengers, secure the perimeter, get the agents to the designated safe zones. A sinking feeling in her gut told her there was something more to this. It was nearly midnight, meaning the compound was at its emptiest. The only people here were the few that lived here, the agents on night patrol, and the ones assigned to the mission the team was away on. The mission that drew the most important members of the team the furthest away from the compound, right before it was attacked. 

It was a trap. 

"Calla, we need to go. Now," Charlotte urged, urgency cutting through the chaos.

They sprinted through Calla’s apartment and tore down the halls. After emerging from the back stairwell to the lab, they froze in the night air, witnessing the alarming scene unfolding across the compound. The once serene night had transformed into a battleground. A handful of agents were sprinting from the guard towers towards the main building, an attempt to reconvene and come up with a plan. Looking back from their retreating backs to the hangar, Charlotte willed herself to think clearly. 

"I need to get to the Quinjet. If I can get airborne, we might have a chance," Charlotte declared, her mind racing. “There’s only one of them, and I can fire from inside the shield.” 

“Charlotte, if the shield falls and you’re in close range…” Calla protested.

“We don’t have much of an option right now. If the shield falls at all, there won’t be much left to show for it.”

Calla nodded, her military training kicking in. "Let's move.” 

They sprinted across the compound, the ground still trembling from the last detonation. The usually quiet night air echoed with the sounds of alarms and distant explosions. As they approached the place where the path diverged between the main SHIELD building and the hangar, Charlotte stopped, grabbing Calla’s arm.

"Calla, I need you to go to the main building. Rally all the agents on the property, secure the perimeter, and keep communication lines open. I’ll get on comms as soon as I get to the hangar. I need to know if there really is only one bird up there. We don't know if this is just a diversion. Get word to the rest of the team ASAP and feed them all the intelligence we have so far. I'll take the Quinjet and provide air support. If anything happens to me, do not under any circumstances leave the compound to come for me. Take as many agents as you can into the bunker and wait for backup. Understood?" Charlotte gave clear and direct orders, eyes calculating and intense.

Calla hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Understood. Be careful, Charlotte."

Without waiting for more, Charlotte sprinted for the hangar, her focus unwavering. Stripping off layers of clothing as she ran, footsteps echoing through the empty, cavernous room, she headed straight for the locker room. In less than a minute, she was zipping up her battle suit, more thankful than ever for the self-lacing technology in her boots. She didn’t waste time grabbing weapons, relying on the small arsenal in the Quinjet. Plucking an earpiece from the cabinet near the door, she slid it into her ear and began running again. 

“Command, this is Mockingbird, do you copy?” 

The line crackled to life as a tinny voice came through the other end. “Mockingbird, this is Command. We read you loud and clear.”

“Tell me what you see.”

“One combat aircraft near Generator Alpha, none detected near Bravo or Charlie. We’re picking something else up on radar, but it’s pretty high up and we can’t get a clear read. Could be backup, use extreme caution and keep stealth mode ON.” 

“Roger that,” She emerged back into the night sky, feet pounding the concrete as she ran towards the nearest Quinjet. The one she’d been practicing in earlier that day. She lowered the ramp and scrambled inside, running towards the cockpit so quickly that the chair nearly spun with momentum as she dropped into it. Hands flying over the instrument panel, she brought the aircraft to life. The engines ignited in a familiar roar, a chaotic harmony to the blood pulsing in her ears. Not from fear of what she was about to do, but from fear for her friends, and what they must have flown into. Pushing the thought from her mind, she brought her focus back to the present moment. She couldn’t control what was happening on the other side of the world, but she could sure as hell make sure they had something to come back to. 

“Mockingbird to Command, prepared for takeoff.” 

“Roger that, Mockingbird. All clear. Go get ‘em.”

#avengers #bucky barnes x oc #bucky fanfic #bucky barnes #james bucky barnes #bucky fluff #winter soldier #sebastian stan #winter soldier fluff

[sfaccountant]

Not all the ponies that join Ferrous Dominus are skilled in violence, of course. Equestria is not a nation that excels in warfare, and its people possess a wide range of talents and industries.

The 38th Company, in stark contrast, excels so deeply in warfare that its masters struggle to comprehend the needs of civilian life. The Mechanicus desires nothing more than to study and construct ever-more weapons and finds the construction and maintenance of living space a tiresome and unproductive chore. The Iron Warriors themselves require a large mortal population to support their pirate raids and crew their fleet, and tolerate the presence of trade and wage labor among them to keep their workers and soldiers compliant, but can offer little else. Those humans, meanwhile, tend to be desperate and poorly educated, with no productive skills of note.

So it turned out there was ample room in Ferrous Dominus for an influx of pony professionals. Chefs and artists and doctors weren't generally rushing to make a new home in the terrible fortress-factory, but those who did found a surprisingly warm reception. Logisticians and managers were also in high demand, as the Chaos fleet moves nigh unfathomable quantities of supplies in and out of war zones on a constant basis and the various cyborgs and super-soldiers make for unpleasant bosses, to say the least.

Doodle pages by VOID, with the solo pics done by Hisu Skelter and Candicorn Arts.

#mlp #art #age of iron #crossover #fanfiction #mlp art #pony oc #doctor

[allthecanadianpolitics]

The union representing 2,200 GO Transit bus operators, station attendants, plant and fleet maintenance workers, transit safety officers, and office professionals says its members have voted 93 per cent in favour of going on strike if necessary.

In a release issued early Monday, Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1587 accused provincial Crown agency Metrolinx of refusing to negotiate on critical issues, including job security, wages and improved work-life balance.

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[maxicabsingapore-blog]

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[wedelivergravel01]

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WeDeliverGravel.com, with its commitment to leveraging the latest technology, stands as a trusted partner for stone slinger services in Toronto. we combine the power of innovative equipment with experienced operators to provide exceptional service tailored to the unique needs of each project.

In conclusion, stone slinger services have redefined material placement in modern construction. 

By embracing technology and utilizing advanced equipment, companies like WeDeliverGravel.com are revolutionizing the construction industry in Toronto. With our precise and efficient material distribution, we enable construction teams to work faster, safer, and with greater precision. When it comes to stone slinger services in Toronto, WeDeliverGravel.com stands at the forefront

#stone #stone slinger #stone slinger service Toronto #stone slinger Toronto

[carwrappingbirmingham]

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO CHOOSING AND APPLYING VEHICLE WRAPS

Choosing and applying vehicle wraps can be a creative and effective way to promote your business, express your personal style, or protect your vehicle's original paint. Here's a complete guide to help you through the process:

Choosing a Vehicle Wrap:

Define Your Purpose:

Determine the primary goal of the vehicle wrap. Is it for advertising, personal expression, or protection?

Set a Budget:

Decide how much you're willing to spend on the vehicle wrap. Costs can vary based on the size of the vehicle and the complexity of the design.

Choose the Material:

Vinyl is the most common material for wraps. There are different types, such as cast and calendared vinyl. Cast vinyl is more durable and conforms better to the vehicle's curves.

Consider the Finish:

Decide on the finish (gloss, matte, satin) based on your preference and the look you want to achieve.

Think About Design:

Work with a professional designer or a design software to create an eye-catching and effective design. Consider the placement of logos, contact information, and graphics.

Select Colors Carefully:

Choose colors that align with your brand or personal style. High-contrast colors and bold designs are often more visible and memorable.

Research Local Regulations:

Some areas may have regulations regarding the size and content of vehicle wraps. Make sure to comply with local laws.

Finding a Professional Installer:

Look for Experience:

Choose a professional installer with experience in vehicle wraps. Check their portfolio and ask for references.

Check Certifications:

Ensure the installer is certified and uses high-quality materials. Certifications from organizations like the Professional Decal Application Alliance (PDAA) are a good indicator.

Ask About Warranty:

Inquire about the warranty offered by the installer and the material manufacturer. A reputable installer will stand behind their work.

Get Multiple Quotes:

Collect quotes from different installers. Consider not only the cost but also the quality of their previous work.

Preparing Your Vehicle:

Clean the Vehicle Thoroughly:

Wash the vehicle to remove dirt, grease, and wax. A clean surface ensures better adhesion.

Repair Any Damage:

Fix any dents, scratches, or rust on the vehicle before applying the wrap.

Remove Accessories:

Take off any accessories, like side mirrors or door handles, that may hinder the installation.

Provide Detailed Information:

Share information about the vehicle with the installer, including make, model, year, and any modifications.

Applying the Wrap:

Professional Installation:

Let the professionals handle the installation. They have the expertise and tools to ensure a smooth application.

Post-Installation Care:

Follow the installer's recommendations for caring for the wrap. Avoid abrasive cleaners and high-pressure washing.

Monitor for Issues:

Keep an eye out for any signs of lifting or peeling. Address issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Regular Maintenance:

Regularly clean the wrap to maintain its appearance and longevity.

By following these steps, you can ensure a successful and visually appealing vehicle wrap that serves your intended purpose. Whether for business or personal use, a well-designed and properly installed wrap can make a lasting impression.

#wrapart #car wrap #birmingham #vehicle wraps #car wrapping

[monolithm007]

Why Every Business Needs a Responsive Website Developer in 2024

In the digital age, where the internet is the new marketplace, the importance of a well-crafted website cannot be overstated. However, it's not just about having any website; it's about having one that resonates with the evolving needs of today's tech-savvy audience. This is where a responsive website developer becomes indispensable. As we delve into 2024, let's explore why every business, regardless of its size or industry, needs a responsive website developer to stay ahead in the game.

Understanding the Role of a Responsive Website Developer

A responsive website developer is more than just a regular web developer. They are specialists who ensure that a website provides a seamless and efficient user experience across different devices and screen sizes. With the proliferation of smartphones, tablets, and various other internet-enabled devices, a responsive website is no longer a luxury but a necessity.

The Shift to Mobile-First

Statistics show that mobile internet usage has surpassed desktop globally. In such a scenario, businesses can't afford to have a website that caters only to desktop users. A responsive website developer ensures that your website is mobile-friendly, providing an optimal viewing experience on smaller screens. This adaptability is crucial for reaching a broader audience and boosting engagement.

Improved User Experience

User experience is the cornerstone of online success. A responsive website developer plays a pivotal role in crafting a site that is not only visually appealing but also user-friendly. They ensure that the website is easy to navigate, loads quickly, and is free from glitches, irrespective of the device used. This positive user experience helps in retaining visitors and converting them into customers.

Better SEO Rankings

Search engines like Google prioritize mobile-friendly websites in their search rankings. By hiring a responsive website developer, you ensure that your site meets these criteria, thereby improving your SEO rankings. A higher ranking means greater visibility, more traffic, and, ultimately, increased business opportunities.

Cost-Effectiveness

Having a separate website for mobile and desktop is not only cumbersome but also economically inefficient. A responsive website developer can create a single website that adjusts to all screen sizes, reducing the need for multiple versions. This approach is cost-effective in terms of both development and maintenance.

Competitive Edge

In the digital marketplace, staying ahead of the competition is key. A responsive website developer equips your business with a website that stands out for its functionality and user-centric design. This professional touch can give you an edge over competitors who may still be relying on outdated, non-responsive websites.

Enhanced Social Media Reach

Social media drives a significant amount of mobile traffic. A responsive website developer ensures that your site is easily shareable and accessible through various social media platforms. This integration can significantly expand your brand's reach and engagement on social media.

Future-Proofing Your Business

Technology is continuously evolving, and so are the devices people use to access the internet. A responsive website developer helps in future-proofing your business by creating a website that is adaptable to current and future devices. This foresight protects your online investment and ensures longevity in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Faster Loading Times

A major challenge with non-responsive websites is their slow loading time on mobile devices. A responsive website developer utilizes optimized images, proper coding, and efficient design frameworks to ensure that your website loads quickly. Faster loading times are crucial for retaining the fleeting attention of online users and also contribute to better SEO rankings.

Decreased Bounce Rates

Bounce rate refers to the percentage of visitors who leave your website after viewing only one page. A responsive website developer can help decrease this rate by ensuring that your site is engaging and accessible across all devices. A lower bounce rate means more prolonged engagement, which can lead to higher conversion rates.

Enhanced Analytics and Reporting

With a responsive website, tracking and analytics become more streamlined, as you're dealing with a single site across all devices. Responsive website developers can integrate sophisticated tracking tools that provide detailed insights into user behavior, helping you make informed decisions to enhance your website's performance.

Legal Compliance and Accessibility

Responsive web design also plays a role in ensuring that your website is compliant with various legal standards, including those related to accessibility. A responsive website developer is aware of these requirements and can build a site that is not only user-friendly but also aligns with legal guidelines, protecting your business from potential legal issues.

Improved Brand Image

Your website often serves as the first point of contact between your business and potential customers. A responsive website developer helps create a positive first impression by delivering a consistent and professional look across all devices. This consistency strengthens your brand image and fosters trust among your audience.

The Return on Investment (ROI)

Investing in a responsive website developer may initially seem like an added expense, but it pays off in the long run. The enhanced user experience, better SEO rankings, increased traffic, and higher conversion rates all contribute to a significant return on investment, making it a wise business decision.

Selecting the Right Responsive Website Developer

When looking for a responsive website developer, consider their portfolio, experience, and understanding of the latest web design trends. Ensure they have a track record of creating successful responsive websites and can provide ongoing support and maintenance.

Conclusion

In the rapidly evolving digital world of 2024, having a responsive website is not just an option but a necessity for businesses aiming to thrive online. A responsive website developer is a key player in this scenario, bringing expertise, innovation, and future-proof solutions to your digital presence. Investing in a responsive website developer is an investment in your business's online success, ensuring that you stay relevant, accessible, and competitive in the ever-changing digital arena and in case of any query or doubt, feel free to contact us.

Read more -

Driving Results with Pay-Per-Click Campaigns

#Responsive Website Developer #Website #Developer #Web developer #SEO #Digital marketing

[pmt-fleet]

Essential Truck Repair Services for Optimal Fleet Performance and Reliability

Ensure optimal fleet performance and reliability with essential truck repair services from PMT Fleet. With prompt repairs, preventive maintenance, and OEM parts, we enhance safety, reduce downtime, and optimize your fleet's efficiency.

#Truck repair services #Fleet maintenance #Fleet management #Professional truck repairs

[cranegodservices]

Crane Consulting: The Key to Streamlined Operations and Improved ROI

If you are in the construction, manufacturing, or mining industry, you know how important it is to have reliable and efficient cranes for your projects. Cranes are essential for lifting, moving, and placing heavy materials and equipment, as well as ensuring safety and productivity. However, cranes are also complex and costly machines that require proper maintenance, inspection, and operation. That's why you need crane consulting & outsourcing services from CraneGod Services.

CraneGod Services is a leading provider of crane consulting services in Arizona and beyond. They have a team of experienced and certified crane inspectors, engineers, and operators who can help you with all your crane-related needs. Whether you need crane inspection, crane design, crane installation, crane operation, crane training, or crane outsourcing, they have the solution for you.

Cranegod Services Can Help You Achieve the Following Benefits:

Streamlined Operations: They can help you optimize your crane performance and efficiency by conducting thorough inspections, audits, and assessments of your cranes. They can also help you design and install new cranes or upgrade your existing ones to meet your specific requirements and standards. They can also provide you with qualified and trained crane operators who can handle your cranes safely and professionally.

Improved ROI: They can help you reduce your crane costs and risks by providing you with preventive maintenance, repair, and replacement services. They can also help you save money and time by outsourcing your crane operations to them. They have a fleet of modern and well-maintained cranes that can suit any project size and scope. They can also handle the logistics, permits, insurance, and compliance issues for you.

Enhanced Safety: They can help you ensure the safety of your workers, equipment, and environment by following the best practices and regulations for crane operation. They can also help you prevent accidents and injuries by providing you with regular safety training and education for your staff. They can also assist you with emergency response and recovery in case of any crane incidents.

Continue reading Crane Consulting: The Key to Streamlined Operations and Improved ROI

#Crane Consulting #phoenix #crane #crane service #arizona #scottsdale #crane consulting services

[vishal0713]

"Unveiling the Future: How Data Science is Revolutionizing Upcoming Industries"

Data science continues to have a substantial impact on various industries, and its scope is expected to expand as new technologies emerge and businesses realize the potential of data-driven insights. Here are some upcoming industries where data science is likely to play a significant role:

Healthcare and Life Sciences: Data science can aid in personalized medicine, drug discovery, predictive analytics for patient outcomes, and healthcare operations optimization.

Financial Services: Financial institutions use data science for fraud detection, risk assessment, algorithmic trading, customer behavior analysis, and credit scoring.

Retail and E-Commerce: Data science helps optimize inventory management, pricing strategies, recommendation systems, and customer segmentation for targeted marketing.

Energy and Utilities: The energy sector benefits from data analytics for smart grid management, predictive maintenance of equipment, and energy consumption optimization.

Manufacturing: Data science improves manufacturing processes through predictive maintenance, quality control, supply chain optimization, and demand forecasting.

Agriculture: Precision agriculture utilizes data science to optimize crop yield, resource allocation, pest control, and environmental monitoring.

Transportation and Logistics: Data science plays a role in route optimization, fleet management, demand forecasting, and autonomous vehicles.

Telecommunications: Data science assists in customer churn prediction, network optimization, and personalized service offerings.

Media and Entertainment: Content recommendation, audience segmentation, and analyzing viewer engagement are areas where data science is making an impact.

Real Estate: Data science helps in property price prediction, market trend analysis, and investment decision-making.

Environmental Conservation: Data science aids in monitoring and analyzing environmental data, including climate patterns, pollution levels, and habitat preservation.

Education: Data science can personalize learning experiences, assess student performance, and optimize educational resources.

Government and Public Services: Data-driven decision-making is becoming increasingly important for optimizing public services, policy formulation, and resource allocation.

Insurance: Insurers use data science for risk assessment, claims processing, fraud detection, and customized pricing.

Travel and Tourism: Data science enhances traveler experiences through personalized recommendations, pricing optimization, and destination insights.

Pharmaceuticals: Data science plays a role in drug discovery, clinical trials optimization, and pharmacovigilance.

Smart Cities: The concept of smart cities involves integrating data science for efficient urban planning, traffic management, energy consumption, and public services.

Cybersecurity: Data science helps in identifying and responding to cyber threats by analyzing patterns and anomalies in network data.

As technology continues to advance and businesses recognize the value of data-driven insights, certybox is creating a difference in providing the top professional courses along with job assistance. It's essential for professionals in the field to stay updated with the latest developments and tools to make the most of these opportunities.

#certybox #data science #business analysis

[rideboomindia]

RideBoom, a leading on-demand ride-sharing service provider, has announced a new pricing structure that offers significant cost savings to its users while maintaining the high quality of its services. The new pricing structure is designed to make RideBoom the perfect solution for those who want to save money on their transportation costs.

With the new pricing structure, RideBoom can offer unbeatable prices for on-demand ride-sharing services. Customers can now enjoy a comfortable ride at an affordable price, without compromising on the quality of service. The pricing structure is simple and transparent, with no hidden fees or surge pricing.

RideBoom is committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable transportation services to its customers. The company uses advanced technology to match drivers with riders, ensuring a seamless and efficient ride-sharing experience. The RideBoom app is easy to use, with features that allow customers to track their rides in real-time, pay securely through the app, and rate their driver at the end of the ride.

“We understand that transportation costs can be a burden for many people. That’s why we have introduced this new pricing structure to make our services more affordable and accessible to everyone,” said Harminder Malhi Known as Harry Malhi, CEO of RideBoom (https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-malhi-87671254/). “With our new pricing, customers can save money on their transportation costs and still enjoy the high-quality ride-sharing services that they have come to expect from RideBoom.”

The new pricing structure is now available to all RideBoom customers. To learn more about RideBoom and its services, visit the app store and download the app to get the fare estimate.

About RideBoom

RideBoom is a leading on-demand ride-sharing service provider, offering safe, reliable, and affordable transportation services to customers across Chandigarh, delhi, Pune, and Kolkata. The company uses advanced technology to match drivers with riders, ensuring a seamless and efficient ride-sharing experience. RideBoom is committed to providing high-quality services that meet the needs of its customers.

Reliable and Trained Drivers: Rideboom should employ reliable and well-trained drivers who have undergone background checks and possess valid licenses. This helps ensure that you have a professional driver who prioritizes safety.

Vehicle Safety Standards: Rideboom should maintain a fleet of well-maintained vehicles that meet safety standards and undergo regular inspections. This includes features like functioning seatbelts, airbags, and proper maintenance of brakes, tires, and lights.

GPS Tracking and Communication: The Rideboom app or website should provide real-time GPS tracking of the taxi, allowing you to track your ride and share the details with your friends. It should also offer a clear channel of communication between the driver and passengers for any inquiries or concerns.

Emergency Assistance: The Rideboom service should have a dedicated helpline or support system in place to handle any emergencies or unexpected situations that may arise during the journey. This ensures that you can seek assistance promptly if needed.

Driver Ratings and Reviews: Rideboom should have a system for passengers to rate and review drivers after each ride. This helps maintain accountability and encourages drivers to provide excellent service while prioritizing safety.

Cashless Payments: Offering cashless payment options, such as credit/debit card or digital wallets, can enhance convenience and security. It eliminates the need for cash transactions and provides a seamless payment experience.

Pre-Booking and Schedule Management: Rideboom should allow passengers to pre-book their rides in advance, especially during peak hours or special events. This helps ensure availability and avoids last-minute hassles.

Adequate Insurance Coverage: Rideboom should have comprehensive insurance coverage for drivers and passengers in case of any accidents or unforeseen incidents. This provides an additional layer of protection and peace of mind.

Regular Updates and Notifications: Providing timely updates and notifications regarding ride status, driver details, and estimated arrival time can help passengers plan their night out more efficiently and reduce uncertainty.

Customer Feedback and Improvement: Rideboom should actively encourage customer feedback and take it into consideration to improve their services continually. This demonstrates their commitment to customer satisfaction and safety.

The problem it solves

RideBoom solves the problem of transportation and delivery by providing an easy-to-use platform that connects riders with drivers and businesses with delivery partners. Where you can select the gender of the driver. It aims to provide a reliable, safe, and affordable transportation and delivery solution to individuals and businesses.

RideBoom offers competitive pricing structures, discounted fares, or promotional incentives that can help RideBoom attract customers and encourage them to try their services over existing competitors.

The RideBoom app is available in both stores and is free to download.

#rideboom app #rideboom #delhi rideboom #biketaxi #rideboom taxi app #travel free rides #transportation #uber taxi

[usafphantom2]

Metrea announces the first commercial air refueling of USAF aircraft

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 13/07/2023 - 16:00 in Military

Metrea is proud to have been part of a historic debut by providing commercial air-to-air refueling for RC-135 and E-3 U.S. Air Force aircraft in support of the RESOLUTE HUNTER exercise.

Although U.S. Navy and Marine Corps units regularly use commercial air refueling services for training and support, this is the first time that U.S. Air Force aircraft have used commercial air refueling.

A Metrea Strategic Mobility KC-135 refuels a USAF RC-135 for the first time. At the end of June, Metrea provided four air refueling support missions for U.S. Air Force aircraft during an exercise, transferring almost 90,000 pounds of fuel during 13 boom contacts. (Photo: Metrea)

From June 23 to 29, Metrea Strategic Mobility (MSM) provided four air refueling support missions for RC-135 and E-3 aircraft in support of the RESOLUTE HUNTER exercise. The total included 13 boom contacts and almost 90,000 pounds of discharged fuel, providing air refueling training for the RC-135 and E-3 crews and allowing them to extend their participation in the RE

"It was appropriate to be able to support the U.S. Air Force in achieving this important milestone during the same week that we marked the 100ºth anniversary of air refueling," said Jon "Ty" Thomas, head of the Metrea Air and Space Group. "Our team worked closely with NAVAIR, the Air Combat Command and the RC-135 and E-3 receiving units to accomplish this and provide the necessary training effect. We hope to support more refueling requirements from the U.S. Air Force, as well as increase demand from allies and partners."

An RC-135 Rivet Joint assigned to the 55ª Wing of Offutt Air Base was the first to receive commercial air-to-air refueling, followed by an E-3 Sentry assigned to the 552ª Air Control Wing of Tinker Air Base.

A Metrea KC-135R refueling U.S. Navy Super Hornet fighters.

For Metrea Strategic Mobility, this marks another historic milestone, after recently completing the first commercial replenishment in April 2023 in support of a U.S. Navy P-8.

A KC-135R from Metrea Strategic Mobility was sent to the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, United Kingdom, from July 14 to 16.

Metrea Strategic Mobility is the only company to own and operate a fleet of KC-135R aircraft, offering an air-to-air refueling service that integrates seamlessly, safely and professionally with military aviation training and operations, with a mission reliability rate of 93% since the beginning of the execution of a NAVAIR contract at the end of 2021.

Metrea combined aviation units flew more than 130,000 hours of accident-free flight, in various types of aircraft, missions and geographies in support of the US, UK and other national security objectives of allied governments and partners. Metrea Strategic Mobility aircraft are equipped with two Multipoint Refueling System (MPRS) pods mounted on the wings, which facilitate refueling with Navy, Marine Corps and partner nations aircraft equipped with probes.

Metrea Strategic Mobility is headquartered in Temecula, California; Metrea is headquartered in Washington, DC, with facilities in the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union.

Tags: Military AviationBoeing KC-135 StratotankerMetreaREVO - Air ReplenishmentUSAF - United States Air Force / U.S. Air Force

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Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Daytona Airshow and FIDAE. He has works published in specialized aviation magazines in Brazil and abroad. Uses Canon equipment during his photographic work around the world of aviation.

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