Fandom Forbidden and Scarred Love { The Last of Us 1x1 with icedthemoon }

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

“Crash on Owen’s bed?” Theo stumbled into the room and immediately peered over at Owen’s empty bed. Then he looked at his buddy who seemed like he might have only just now decided to go to bed. What was going on in here? “You good, man? Because you look like you died and have come back to haunt yourself.” He slowly ambled his way through the room, unsure if he needed to be there for his friend or if he needed to lay down and try to sleep.

“Don’t you dare.” Hayden was not necessarily a light sleeper. Instead. He was a creature of habit. He was often up at about this time, so when Josh shifted, he noticed. He slowly sat up and blinked several times as he willed the sleep away. “You don’t get to sneak off like that. Do you think Soren can save you? Because I will drag him in here as well. In fact I should.” Sleep did not make him any less annoyed it seemed.

The Elders were rightfully displeased but kind when it came to actions against him. They understood that he was lucky to have gotten away from so many demons. It was how he did it that they marveled at. Ezekiel could not so much say that he not only worked alongside a wolf but allowed him to live, so he changed the story. His people took out more than they really did. He was luckier with his Molotov. He was better with the bow. He achieved more with the crowbar. They called his actions commendable, and he shied away from the inner disgrace of the lie. But She looked down on him and smiled. He could feel it. Perhaps this was not a lie but an exaggeration of the truth. It was for the best.

When he left, after being told that yes he should attend the morning’s ceremony, Ezekiel first walked to the cabin where he could retrieve a new hammer. He was in dire need of weapons since he lost so much the day before. He grabbed one of the large ones and hefted it in his hands. This was good. This was what he needed yesterday. He strapped another to a sash and continued his walk. He was still a bit early. He wished that he was not. As he moved he noticed slight movement up in a tree. Someone? Oh. Young Alexander. “Good morning!” He called. “You are up awfully early!”
​

 

[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Kai had turned over and onto his stomach on his bed and shoved his face into his pillow. When he heard Theo’s words, he groaned softly into the fabric. “I’ll be fine. I just had a lot on my mind from yesterday.” Yeah, like why he was saved and worked beside a scar. But he couldn’t tell anyone that, they’d bring him in front of Isaac. No thanks. The man was scary enough when he was happy, Kaiden did not want to see him angry.

Josh winced a little as he heard Hayden’s voice. “Good morning dear. I was just getting up to get dressed. I certainly was not trying to slip away.” Josh said, sitting up in the bed. “I don’t think we should bother him right now.” Josh added, looking at Hayden before lowering his gaze, waiting for the inevitable conversation.

Alex was sitting in his tree, watching the sun when he heard a voice below. Oh. Ezekiel. “Good morning! Yes, I could not sleep any longer. I’m very excited for this morning.” Alex called as he got up from the branch he’d been sitting on and worked his way down. Once on the ground, he smiled at Ezekiel. “I just.. can’t wait to go patrol and recon. To see the city and spend time off the island.” Alex admitted, his hands twisting together. He’d only ever told Juliet this so he wasn’t sure how Ezekiel would take it.​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

Theo wasn’t sure he believed that but he would go with it for now. He moved over to Owen’s bed and fell onto his back. This was not the first time he took Owen’s bunk. Brian was a lot all the time, and he liked hanging with Kai more. “As long as you’re cool, I’m cool. Maybe we should skip out on the aquarium today? Sleep in.” He sighed heavily. “I wouldn’t hate that.” A do nothing day was his kind of day.

Hayden stared at him a moment then raised both brows. “Well then by all means, go get dressed.” He crossed his arms over his chest after pulling himself up to the headboard as he waited. If Josh changed, that could give him time to think about how he wanted to do this. Or, alternatively, he could start while Josh was changing. That would give them the barrier between. Or he could let it go. He grimaced. That was not likely the answer.

Ezekiel smiled at Alex’s answer. “I remember when I was young and hoped for the same thing. Off the island is fascinating. The old world is a bizarre but beautiful place.” He leaned against the tree as he stared into the sky. He did not have anywhere near the view of Alex, though. Ezekiel watched as Alex moved down the rest of the way. “Not all of it is great. Much of it is in ruins. But there are places that are so interesting. Places that fell because of the impurity of humanity.” He thought of the wolf. Was he impure? “If Grant believes you are ready, then I am sure you are. Maybe you will get to see those things as well.”
​

 

[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Kai shifted so his head was sideways on the pillow and he could look at Theo. As much as he normally would sleep in during days he didn’t have patrol, Kaiden didn’t think he could. “I don’t know man. I kind of wanna go do something, even if it’s not the aquarium.” He said. Kaiden would spend more time thinking if he stayed in his room, at least out there he had to pay attention to his surroundings.

Josh watched Hayden for a moment, seeing him raise both eyebrows. He slipped off the bed and walked over to the dresser. He slid on his jeans and shirt, glancing back at his husband. He shifted on his feet, biting his lip nervously waiting for the other to say something.

Alex looked at the older warrior, a hand running over his scars. “I do hope to see the world, and see some of these places that are beautiful and strange.” Alex said as he watched the other man. “Oh well thank you. Grant taught me everything I know and I’m ready to show it.” Alex said with a big smile. He might not agree with some things but he was still one of them. So he upheld the way of life that was so familiar to him.​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

Theo also rolled his head so that he could look at his friend. “Yeah?” He got that. He knew what it was like when Kai just needed to go. When he couldn’t sit still or the still would kill him. He wanted to know why though. Clearly he’s been thinking. What was he thinking about though? “Where is Owen anyway? Is he with Abby? Did he stand you up for her? Rude. I’d never do that to you.” He ruled his head to look up. “Maybe they’re already at the aquarium. I dunno if I want to be with the two of them. We could go somewhere else?”

Hayden’s eyes closed as he willed himself to be calm. He had not always been like this. He used to be able to sleep away irritation. This came from the years with FEDRA he was sure. “Okay. How did you get separated? And why did he have two faulty guns? I am not the firearm expert. I will go check them today, but I only know the ammunition composition.” He paused, opening his eyes again. “He had to use old Firefly techniques to survive, Josh. Why don’t we have more fail safes in place for when these kinds of things happen?” So much for his slow start.

“Your enthusiasm is infectious! I slept poorly last night. I was plagued with the memory of our losses.” Ezekiel frowned, facing away for a moment. Then he smiled. “But you have promised me a good day with your good mood. I thank you sincerely.” The sun moved up in the sky, and the time was coming. “Are you ready to be assigned your group? This was such an exciting day for me when it happened that first time.”
​

 

[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Kaiden shifted as he sat up on the bed and looked over at Theo. “I think he did. Oh well. At least he’s got someone that makes him happy.” Kai said with a shrug because he was used to it. “Yeah, I think the aquarium is off the table. Maybe we could go to Hillcrest? Or the Serevena.” Kai suggested as he stretched, glancing at his arm.

Josh leaned against the wall and sighed softly. “I don’t know what happened exactly. We were all together cutting through a building when Kai was gone a moment later. As for the guns? I’m not sure why they jammed, could’ve been any reason. From poor maintenance to age. Those things just happen.” Josh said, pushing off the wall and walking over to sit beside Hayden. “I’m not sure why we don’t, but it’s something I’ll be talking to Soren about and possibly bringing it up to Isaac. I worry about him too, and I was so upset when I found him gone. He’s my son too, and I was scared I’d lost him.” Josh told him, wrapping an arm around Hayden’s shoulders and squeezing gently.

Jacob had managed to get some sleep but it wasn’t until midnight. He had delivered on his promise to check out his husband when he got home. At six am, Jacob was waking up, slowly. But he was warm and curled up to Soren so he didn’t want to move much.

Alex smiled big as he heard that. It filled him with happiness at that. He didn’t like it when others were upset. “I’m glad I was able to brighten your day.” Alex told him as he looked at Ezekiel before nodding. “I’m ready. I can’t wait to get my new group.” He added as he looked out around them. It was almost time. ​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

Theo peered at Kai thoughtfully. At least Owen had some who made him happy. Was Kai not happy? This morning got really deep all of a sudden. Maybe it was because of how much he didn’t sleep last night. What was going on in his friend’s brain. “Yeah, let’s go somewhere. But let’s go somewhere new. Travel a little? Be dangerous.” He laughed, because being dangerous was a terrible idea but Kai needed something to take his mind off of things. He popped out of the bed and ran over to Kai’s to sit on the edge of the mattress. “There’s still plenty of places that we haven’t explored yet because everyone so afraid. But if we’re smart and careful, maybe we can find something new.”

Hayden bit back the angry words that threatened to snap from his throat. He huffed. “I know. I know he is. I know you were worried. I know it’s not what you wanted. But this was why I didn’t want him to do this. And I know you are watching out for him, but then things like this happens. He wanders off? We can’t control him. He’s an adult. He’s one of the most talented people I’ve ever met.” He closed his eyes and touched Josh’s face. “What if you can’t be there to protect him? When he just wants to wander off and get lost? What if he hadn’t remembered what Owen taught him? You’re-“ he sucked in a deep breath. “You’re supposed to be there for him. You promised. You- promised.”

Soren stayed up to be with Jacob. He always did. If Jacob had to stay up for a long shift, so did Soren. He did say there had to be a check up later. Soren had never been able to deny his husband in their many years together. His inner clock woke him about now anyway. Him and Jacob both since forever. He yawned and wrapped his arms around his love. He was going to have to get up soon to meet Josh, but until then, he could stay a little longer. He kissed Jacob’s forehead as he laid there.

It was almost as though those memories could disappear if he could distract himself with the excitement of youth. He would give so much to have that once more. “Do you mind if I join you? I think I would like to use that enthusiasm to rid myself of my own mind plagues.” A mind plague of death. A mind plague of wolves. “But I do not want to burden you with my struggles.”
​

 

[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Kaiden tilted his head to one side. “New? That sounds like a good idea. Let’s be a little dangerous.” Kai agreed as he looked at Theo, sitting on the edge of the mattress. “Come on, let’s go.” He added, wanting to ignore the conflicted thoughts in his head. The image of the scar still trapped in his head and he hated it. He needed to do something that most would consider dangerous and stupid. Kai stood up from the bed, crossed the room and pulled on a pair of jeans and a shirt, then tossed his pack over his back. “Did you wanna stop and grab your pack and stuff from your room?”

Josh heard the huff and looked at Hayden. No one ever warned him about having someone you’ve watched grow and become an adult in a world like this would make him worry so much. It was why he made sure that Kaiden was on their patrol. But Hayden was right, he was an adult, and capable of making his own choices. Josh listened to Hayden completely and sighed softly. He felt the hand on his face. “I know I promised. And I’m trying to keep that promise. But I.. I can’t.. what if I can’t..? Baby. I was terrified and I don’t what I’d do if he did get lost. Or worse.”

Jacob hummed softly as he felt the kiss to his forehead, shifting a little to look at Soren. “Mm good morning handsome.” He said quietly. He wasn’t moving until Soren left, so he just snuggled closer.

Alex shook his head and smiled. “You can absolutely join me. I don’t mind at all. You are not a burden to me Ezekiel.” Alex told him, turning to lead the way to where the Elders would assign him, his group.​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

Theo was practically giddy with the idea. They spent so much time having to be good little soldier boys, always having to follow directions and only do exactly what someone else says. He wanted to do something ill advised. He wanted to do something interesting. If he had to hear his parents tell him to be careful one more time, he was going to scream. He was sure that if Kai was saying his dad was upset with his papa then yeah, he probably heard it all the time too. “Oh yeah, probably. Good thing it’s not far. And you can wait outside so only I have to deal with cranky morning Brian.” He ran to the door and opened it for him. “Let do this, man.”

Hayden needed to hear Josh being as upset as he wasn’t allowing himself to be. He needed to hear that this scared him as much as it scared Hayden. He needed to know that not everyone thought this was funny and amazing. Because it wasn’t. “Or worse? Like surrounded by all those infected worse?” The air got caught. “I know I told you that I’m better about you and him and Soren going around doing what you do. And I am. That’s not a lie. But it’s so hard. It’s so hard knowing how dangerous that is.” He leaned his forehead against Josh’s. “I’m trying not to be as overbearingly against it as I was. I am an active part of it now. That’s better. But… I can’t lose all of you.”

“Oh don’t do that,” Soren groaned at the snuggle. “You know I can’t resist when you’re so cute in the morning. I’m going to be late again. Josh can only cover for me so many times before someone realizes that there’s something else going on.” He lifted Jacob’s chin for a kiss. A morning ‘hello, good morning, I love you’ kind of kiss. “Think maybe that can handle life on their own without me? Maybe I can be sick and need a medical house call.”

Ezekiel smiled, following Alex to the gathering area. He wondered just who Alex would be joining. He wondered who he would have to join. It had been a long time since he was put with new people. He moved into the area to see who else was there. There were several other younger members as well. They must have been recently approved for moving up as well. He relished in their excitement. He hoped it was enough to push away the intrusive thoughts.
​

 

[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Kaiden nodded as he smiled, he was more than eager to do something that would probably get him in trouble. Oh well. Anything was better than behaving all the time. “Sounds good to me, let’s get going.” Kai said, as he headed out the door after Theo and locked the door behind him. “Have you ever asked to switch roommates? If he’s that bad?” Kai asked as he walked down the hall with Theo towards his room.

Josh sighed, as he thought about what could be worse. “It could’ve been scars instead of infected.” He mused quietly. He felt the forehead against his and heard him. “I know it’s hard and dangerous love. But it’s not any easier to watch him out there and if anything happens, and I was there and didn’t stop it.” Josh paused his words as he sighed. “We’ll always make it back to you baby.”

Jacob chuckled hearing Soren’s groan. “But you’re so warm. I don’t wanna move. And they won’t question it, I’m sure.” Jacob added as he snuggled closer. He felt Soren lift his chin up and he smiled into the kiss before he kissed him back. He heard him and chuckled softly, shifting in his hold to pin him on his back with Jacob over him, a smirk on his face. “I think you’re very sick and you need to stay in bed with a 24hr nurse on watch.”

The Elders stood up on the platform facing the gathering area. “Seraphites, today we honor and celebrate our young warriors and they will join groups to patrol and help us fight the wolves.” Elder Josiah said. He pulled a few older groups up that had been missing members. Each group received two young warriors. “Alexander Brennan and Ezekiel Finch will join Drake’s group. That is all and may She guide all of you.” He said, waiting as Alex moved to the group he was assigned. Drake’s group had lost their leader and Elder Josiah told Ezekiel that he’d be the leader as he was the eldest in the group. Once the groups were made, patrol routes were decided and then it was time for breakfast.​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

Theo shrugged as they walked down the hall. “I mean, he’s not the bad most of the time. It’s just.. sometimes. And it’s bad sometimes but not all the time. And who else would I want to be with? You’ve already got a roommate.” He grinned as he reached for the door. “Give me like three seconds.” He disappeared into the room. A couple of minutes and a little bit of yelling later, Theo reemerged with wide eyes and a nervous smile. “Okay, let’s go. Let’s be literally anywhere else. Should we grab breakfast on our way out first?”

“And what if it was?” Hayden pulled away from him. He put his hands on the bed beside as he stabilized himself. No. He needed to move. He got up, stood in front of him. Hands on hips. Facing away for a moment. “What if it was scars, Josh?” He locked eyes with Josh. “What if he gets caught up with scars? He’s gone off with Owen, and as sweet as that boy is, he’s known to wander. What if it was scars instead of infected? They could string him up like Damien.” His hands flew to his stomach. “At least infected aren’t malicious.”

After all these years, Jacob was equally as tempting as he had been seen they first met. They still flirted like they were in their thirties again. They still had after hours check ups. Soren adored his nurse. “Oh,” he gasped, voice low and almost breathy possibly from the sleep but maybe because of how much he very much liked when Jacob took control. “Sorry, Josh. You’re on your own. Doctor’s orders.” He laced his hands through Jacob’s hair and pressed his head down for perhaps a little more exciting kiss than their first ones.

Ezekiel bowed his head to the Elders for their wisened choices and moved to join Alex and the rest of the group. He stood beside him mostly silently as he waited for the rest to move away. He gently bumped their shoulders. “I would call this a fortuitous turn of events. Everything happens for a reason. Perhaps I can show you all those places we talked about after all.” He grinned as they headed for breakfast. “Though I am sad for Drake’s leader. He was a good warrior.”
​

 

[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Kai shrugged as he looked at Theo. “We can swap, put Owen in with Brian and you can room with me.” He said with a chuckle as they came to a halt in front of Theo’s door. He waited when Theo went in and heard a little bite of yelling. A few moments later and Theo came back out with wide eyes and a nervous smile. “Let’s get some breakfast, that’s not a bad idea. At least then we won’t attract infected with our stomachs growling.” Kai chuckled as he headed for the cafeteria.

Josh sighed, feeling Hayden pull away from him. He watched him move off the bed and stand in front, facing away at first. A moment later, his eyes locked onto his husband’s. “It wasn’t though. The kid’s smarter than that. Sure he’s going out with Owen, and he’s been out with Theo. But he’s smart.” Josh said as he frowned, hearing Hayden’s words and seeing his hands fly to his stomach. Josh stood up and put his arms around Hayden and pulling him into his chest. “Stop. Just breathe and relax. Our boy is smart and knows how to fight. I know we’re both going to worry and fret, but he’s capable. Now, I’m sure he’s up and headed for breakfast so why don’t we go see him before he takes off for the day?”

Jacob looked down at Soren, his eyes sparkled with love that had only strengthened over the last twenty two years. He heard the ‘oh’ and smiled. “Oh yes. Josh is absolutely on his own.” Jacob agreed, kissing him back as he felt the fingers lace in his hair.

Alex looked at Ezekiel and smiled, seeing him joining their group. He felt the gentle bump of their shoulders and nodded. “Everything does happen for a reason. And I would love to see some of those places.” Alex agreed as he followed Ezekiel to breakfast. “Yes. Peter was a good warrior. He rests with Her now.”​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

Theo laughed as he skipped down the hall. “I bet neither Brian nor Owen would care much. Honestly, they’ll both be happy. Owen can be away as much as he wants and Brian can keep it orderly and great and never be bothered.” He shrugged. “But it’s whatever I guess.” He pushed open the doors and into the cafeteria. It was still early enough that it wasn’t crowded yet.

Hayden hadn’t noticed that his breathing had gotten fast. That he was starting to spiral again. It wasn’t until Josh held him in his arms that he realized that he was close to tears. He thought he was doing better. “I know,” he breathed. “I know.” He pressed his cheek to Josh’s chest. “Okay. Yes. I think that would help.” He breathed. He breathed. He breathed, and he kissed Josh’s cheek. “I’m sorry. I don’t mean to be so..” he waved a hand. Then he pulled away. “Let me wear something that isn’t pajamas.” He disappeared to change.

And this was how he found himself in the kind of trouble where fancy officers told him that he was lucky he was so good at what he did. He kissed Jacob, his hands refusing to stay in place as usual. This was still one of his favorite things to do. Sometimes, it still baffled him how much he loved this life. He reluctantly pulled his hungry lips away. “Mm, who’s going to deliver the sad news to them? Because I don’t want to leave, and I don’t want you to leave.”

“Did you ever get to watch Peter’s techniques?” Ezekiel asked as they entered the large cabin with tables and tables of food. “He was an absolutely fascinating study.” He gestured for Alex to move first. “Go ahead.” He turned to see who else was around. Other warriors were there too now that it was a little later.
​

 

[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Kai chuckled as he watched Theo skip down the hall. "Probably, those two wouldn't care at all. But hey, I still get to hang out with you so that's all that matters." Kai said with a laugh as they entered the cafeteria. "Did you wanna go sit at the table while I get us breakfast?" Kai asked as he looked at Theo.

Josh had noticed that Hayden's breathing had gotten fast and he just held him close. He heard him, felt the cheek on his chest and kissed the top of his head. "I'm sure it will help." He replied before he felt the kiss on his cheek. "It's okay baby. Don't apologize for worrying. That's what I'm here for. You can talk about all your worries with me. And that's probably a good idea." Josh said, watching him pull away and go get dressed.

Jacob felt Soren's hands moving as he kept kissing his husband. Jacob felt Soren pull away from the kiss and sighed heavily, dropping his head to Soren's chest. "Do we have to tell them or just let them guess? Because I'm not leaving and I'm not letting you leave either." Jacob muttered as he lifted his head and kissed Soren's jaw, chin, throat, neck. "I'm sure they'll figure it out."

Alex looked at Ezekiel and shook his head. "No, unfortunately I did not. I heard stories about him from the others and Grant." Alex admitted as they entered the cabin. He nodded as he entered first, and grabbed breakfast before finding a table to sit at, looking back to see if his new leader would join him.​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

Theo chuckled as he walked backwards. “Man, you’re the coolest. Yeah. I’ll go sit where your dads will find us. You know they’ll be here soon.” He twirled around found their spot. He eyed a couple of people and shooed them away. “Back off guys. You wanna argue with Hayden?” He shook his head. “That eye..” it was enough to scare others off.

Hayden changed into his clothes for the day, and immediately after threw his arms around his husband. He needed that support. It was hard just worrying about Josh. It was harder also worrying about Kai. “I don’t mean to be so upset with you. I’m sorry for that.” He slid his hand into Josh’s and moved to the door.

A low hum grumbled through his body at the touch. At the words. His hands grabbed Jacob and pulled him back up for more kisses. He was not for this not kissing thing. Soren thought this really should be the plan for the whole day. “Yeah, I bet they’ll know.” He kissed him again until he couldn’t breathe. “When do you next work?”

Ezekiel grabbed his breakfast and waved over several other warriors before sitting with Alex. “Alexander, have you met those you will be working with from now on? This isn’t everyone, but these are a few.” He nodded to each. “I think it is important to know each other. Who we are. What our motives are.”
​

 

[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Kai chuckled as he watched Theo walk backwards to the table. "I know I am." Kai said with a grin as he walked to the line. Once he was alone though, the thoughts of yesterday came back again. He bit his lip as he remembered the scars face again. The line wasn't long and eventually he made it to the front. "Hey Laura, I've got mine and Theo's breakfast." Kai told her and she nodded, handing him two meals. "Thank you." He said, before walking over to the table and sitting beside Theo, setting his meal in front of his friend.

Josh looked at Hayden when he came back out and felt the arms thrown around him. He wrapped his arms around Hayden and gave him a hug. "I know. It's okay, and I understand." He said, kissing his forehead before he felt the hand slide into his. "Dear, would you like your cane?" Josh asked softly.

He heard the low hum and smiled, feeling Soren grab him and pull him back up for more kissing. Jacob hummed himself this time as he heard the comment and then the question. "I'm sure they will, and I work tomorrow morning at 7am."

Alex looked at Ezekiel before the other warriors joined them. He looked at each of them before looking at Ezekiel and shook his head. "I haven't no. It's nice to meet you all." Alex said with a smile on his face, nodding as he listened. "I agree." He said, though he was a little nervous and excited at meeting his group.​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

Thankfully, the wait was not long. Theo chatted with some people as they came around, lounged a bit, and yawned like he didn’t sleep well, which he didn’t. When Kai arrived, he sat up and smiled. “You are my hero. You know that?” He immediately started eating. “My actual hero,” he barely got out as he wolfed down his food. “It was gonna be hard to adventure on an empty stomach.”

Already moving to the door, he paused. He sighed. He groaned. It had been years. Years. Years since the injury. A decade. And still he never grabbed it. He let go of Josh’s hand, moved away and to the cane, and joined him again. He grinned. “See, I can be good. Now let’s go before I do something stupid. You know, like I move myself without the cane and then you have to carry my broken body back to bed.”

“Mm, so if I skip out on duty today, I get you all day?” Soren captured those beautiful lips. He ran a hand up his husband’s back and paused at the back of Jacob’s neck to push it lightly so that he could kiss his neck. Trail the length of it. “Oh I mean if I’m sick. Very, horribly sick.”

Ezekiel, who may not have worked with each of these warriors, he did know much about each other. Some he trained with when he was younger. He introduced each to Alex. They shared brief information like experience and what they’re good at. “Alex, I’ve heard, is very good at the bow. He will be an asset to our team.” He smiled. “I think perhaps we should take a little longer on our patrol today to learn each other’s strengths and weaknesses. It will be important as we work as one unit. I am very bad at the bow, but I am very good with an our warhammers. In combat, if I am up close to our enemy, Alex can defend me from afar. But if one were to sneak up on Alex, I would need to know to assist as soon as possible. We will learn this for each of us.”
​

 

[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Kaiden chuckled softly as he heard Theo. “I didn’t want to have to hear your stomach and have to fight infected because of it.” Kai said with a grin. He started eating his own breakfast but he was still thinking which made him eat slower. He definitely needed to do something stupid, maybe these thoughts will leave him alone finally.

Josh sighed softly as he heard Hayden groan. He felt Hayden let go of his hand and grabbed the cane before moving back to Josh’s side. “I know it’s very difficult to be good. And you would never do anything stupid my love. But if you did, I’d gladly carry you back to bed.” Josh told him as he opened the door, let Hayden out and locked it behind him. Usually Soren was waiting for him since they were once again neighbors. He wasn’t. Huh. “I guess Soren’s going to be late today.” Josh mused as he led the way to the cafeteria, walking at Hayden’s pace.

Jacob was about to reply when Soren kissed him again. He felt the hand run up his back and stop at his neck. He felt his husbands kisses trail the length of his neck. “Mmhmm. You are very sick and so I must do my duty all day and help you feel better.” Jacob whispered with a smile on his face. He shifted Soren so he could kiss him deeply, and much more passion that the last few had been.

Alex smiled and nodded to each member but he ducked his head and blushed at the compliment about his bow skills. “That sounds like a good idea. A little longer learning about each other could save our lives in an actual fight with our enemies or demons.” Alex agreed as he took a bite from his breakfast.​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

Hayden peered at the door of their neighbors and smirked. “If he’s not there during breakfast, we can go check on him after. Is it Jacob’s day off? Because you know how he is when Jacob doesn’t have to be anywhere. Late is only if we’re lucky.” It was shocking that Soren got away with this as much as he did. He moved quickly through the halls. He had years to work through his pain, and he moved pretty fast overall. They managed to get to the cafeteria relatively quickly.

Theo rolled his eyes as he stuffed his face with breakfast. He was really hungry, yes, but it wasn’t like it was unusual. He just liked food. A lot. And who was he to deny himself pleasure in things he knew he would be doing a lot? He would never been so rude and inconsiderate to anyone, especially himself. Theo looked up and pointed. “Hey, I think I found the parentals.” Theo waved.

Soren was pretty sure this was exactly how to feel better. Stay in bed all day, be treated by your nurse, and stay in recovery until normal again. He returned the kisses, pulling Jacob as close to him as possible. And then he flipped them over so that he had Jacob pinned down. “You know,” he breathed as he kissed his jaw. “You are,” just underneath, “a terrible,” his neck, “influence.” Further down his neck.

“Exactly,” Ezekiel agreed as they all ate. “So enjoy eating and then we will see how we wish to go today. Alex, perhaps we will let Drake and the others show us how their days ran before this? I think an integration is the best plan. But, I also think exploration off the island is in order. A hybrid perhaps.” He laughed as he ate. “I have many ideas and plans.” All of which were meant to distract him from his own thoughts.
​

 

[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Kaiden had about half his meal finished when he heard Theo. His eyes drew from his food to look at Josh and Hayden coming in. A smile crossed his face, he did love them. Kai waved and Josh waved back at him.

Josh sighed, and nodded his head. “I think that man could get away with murder.” He huffed as he chuckled. “I think today is Jacob’s day off, so we probably won’t see him until dinner.” He added as he walked into the cafe. “You go see our boy, I’ll get breakfast.” Josh said, kissing his head and waved to the two younger men before heading to get their breakfast.

Jacob grinned into the kiss, feeling Soren pull him closer. A gasp slipped out as he felt himself being flipped over so now he was pinned. He looked up at Soren and smiled, hearing him and feeling the kisses on his jaw, underneath it, his neck, further down his neck. “And it’s all because of you dear. You were a terrible influence on me first.” Jacob said with a happy smile.

Alex nodded as he finished his breakfast. “That would be a smart plan. It’s easier to work with our group if we see how they work first.” Alex agreed, waiting patiently for the rest of his new group to be finished.​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

Like the overbearing father that he was sure that he was, Hayden made his way to his son with a sigh of relief. He knew they would see him, but he had been just a little bit worried that they wouldn’t. He was not sure why exactly, though it was likely the debilitating worry. He sat down at the table with a smile. “Good morning you two. Get good sleep last night?” He asked. Theo shrugged with his face full of food.

“I’m the terrible influence? I see how it is.” Soren chuckled low before kissing those lips again. His favorite lips. He smiled mischievously as he brought one hand up to explore that beautiful body of Jacob’s. “Well, then I guess I should live up to that reputation.” His kisses trailed from neck to collar. “Let’s have that kind of morning.”

As the group finished their breakfast, Ezekiel stood to stretch his legs. The rest of the group eventually joined them there as well. “Good morning. I hope She brought pleasant dreams and a restful night to you all. Perhaps we should begin by retrieving our weaponry before we leave?” He grinned. “We wouldn’t be much good if we found ourselves in trouble without aid.”
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[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Kaiden looked up as Hayden joined them and while he smiled, a small yawn slipped out too. “Good morning dad. I got some sleep.” Kai admitted as he worked on eating. Josh came over a few moments later and set a meal down in front of Hayden and sat down with his own. “Good morning you two.” He said and Kai smiled at Josh. “Morning papa.” He said as Josh began eating. “So what are your plans for the day? Still going out with Owen?” Josh asked and Kai shook his head. “No. Theo and I are going to go check out the Serevena and that area.” He said, definitely not telling them that they were going somewhere new.

Alex looked at the rest of the group when they joined them. The idea to get weaponry was a good one. “That would probably be the best thing to do.” He agreed, standing up and following his group to get their weapons. He took his bow and a knife, and waited for the rest.​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

“The Serevena?” Hayden asked as he placed a hand on Josh’s arm with a quick ‘thank you’ before turning his attention back to the other two. Theo nodded as he wolfed down the last bit of his food. “Yeah, wanna move and do you know? I’m feeling restless today, and Owen stood us up for his girl. Rude. But that’s not gonna stop us!” Hayden laughed as he began to eat. That did sound like the two young men. “Sometimes, I wish I could move and do when I felt restless.” He smirked as he thought about his less than capable body. “Oh, come on. You’re not that old,” Theo said as he leaned forward on his elbows. “You’ve still got spunk in there. I’ve heard the stories. I know how that eye happened.” He smiled, because he knew that was not at all what Hayden was talking about. He leaned in close and whispered, “I heard about the other guy.” Hayden chuckled. This was why he loved keeping them around.

Ezekiel was content with the war hammer he carried and the smaller hammer that he attached with the sash he tied around himself. The other members too grabbed theirs. Some preferred firearms. One had a crossbow. Another also had a bow similar to Alex’s. Some also had smaller handheld melee weapons. This was a well balanced group Ezekiel thought as he watched them each return ready. It was impressive. She certainly was guiding them today. “I know that it is hard to have a leader pass, but remember, he rests with Her. It is okay to mourn, but we cannot dwell in it. The best way to move forward is to acknowledge our sadness for this loss and embrace the new chances that She provides. Can someone tell me how you would run this group normally without such devastation?”
​

 

[EquineGurl23]

Kaiden Lachlan and Alexander Brennan (along with the Smith Clan)
WLF Member, Young Seraphite Warrior | 23, 16 | Current location ;; Washington

Josh smiled at his husband at the thank you. He turned his attention to the two young men, remembering when he was that age. When he was Kai’s age, the world was normal and he was getting his husbands ring made. “You have more spunk than you give yourself credit for love.” He said with a chuckle as he took a few bites of his food. “And you two be careful out there.” Josh said, watching the two. Kaiden nodded as he looked between them. “Come on dad, you two aren’t that old and we will papa.” Kai said as he finished his breakfast. “Are you ready to go Theo?”

Drake walked up to Ezekiel, and bowed his head. “Normally we head out on patrol and split up in pairs but close enough to whistle to each other once we get to our area. When we finish our patrol, we meet up and head back.” Drake explained, as Alex tilted his head, looking around at his group.​

 

[icedthemoon]

Ezekiel Finch and Theophilus Sharpe (and also the Smith Clan)
Seraphite Warrior, WLF Member | 26, 22 | Current location ;; Washington

Theo nodded. “Of course we’ll be careful. I’ve got the kid of the two coolest dudes in the whole world with me!” He pointed to Josh. “We’ve got the scariest superhero in the whole world who could probably bring down all those scars by himself.” He pointed to Hayden. “And we’ve got the activist who changed the world for literally everyone in this city for the better.” He popped up from the bench and gestured to Kai. “So just imagine what this one can do, right? No worries! Let’s go, man!” He was riding the enthusiasm out of that cafeteria before the parental guidance decided that they wanted to ask more questions.

“I am glad to hear that your patrols are similar to those of my last group. We formed pairs of balanced skill sets. Since I do not know yours yet, I will leave it up to you how you would normally group.” He smiled as he looked to Alex. “And since you and I are new, perhaps you would like to be mine?” He began to lead them towards their route.
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