- ̗̀ an old cardigan ̖́-

multimuse for DECIMATIONHQ – loved by b.

LUCY STEVENS / POKEMON DETECTIVE PIKACHU – INTRO. TAGS. STEVE ROGERS / MARVEL – INTRO. TAGS. NAMOR MCKENZIE / MARVEL -- INTRO. TAGS.

( @decimationstarters​ ) ⚡ 𝒂𝒏 𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒐𝒏

“i’ve never been quite sure of the fanciful coffees and teas, but this toasted marshmallow is addicting.“ he stated to no one in particular, glancing about as he took a sip from his drink, smiling at whoever’s eyes he caught. “i’m not sure i can even move on to try the other flavors… but i’m determined to at least finish a menu at one of the establishments in town.” when he finally settled on someone he continued to speak to them, giving a nod in greeting before turning to address the snowmen being built. “that looks like fun, would you care to join me? i am a handyman by trade, so i’m more than my looks and personality.” thor paused and then flashed them a dazzling smile. “so some say.”

The dynamic they have is an interesting one. James has always viewed the two of them as friends and knows deep down that if Namor truly hated him as much as he implies, then the situation they’re in presently would be going very differently. He would have been kicked out and frankly, wouldn’t have been indulging on his mischievous behavior as much with someone else. Bucky might be a brat but also wasn’t going to go around making enemies for no reason. All he wanted was a reaction out of Namor and the scoff is certainly it. “I don’t need to mess with your fish today. It’s a new record, I somehow managed to annoy you without even doing anything.” He’ll accept this as another personal win. His expression of enjoyment quickly turns sour. “Alpine is behaved! She just likes to choose when.” He will always defend his cat since she’s like family and spoils her much like someone would their daughter. However, only rolls his eyes when he’s called a scarecrow. It hardly bothers him when comments like that are directed toward himself because maybe he also knows deep down not to take it too seriously when it comes to Namor. “Flowerhorn Cichlid … now that’s a mouthful. They’re stunning—  wait, you can pet fish? I had no idea.” This is why Bucky likes coming to see Namor so often, he always learning something new.

at her enthusiasm, rick raised his brows and turned to look at her, “noted.” he replied before turning to look back at the mess before them. a soft hum escaped from him as he stepped forward to assess the damage on a closer level, his head tilting at the thought and giving consideration to her words. “it’s possible, but honestly what sort of message would it be? keep your landscaper working hard?” he asked, starting out nice enough but ending on a sarcastic note. “honestly? i’ve got no clue. but if i find anything in this mess, like a motive note or something carefully crafted but obvious to whoever did this, i’ll definitely let you know.”

She narrowed her eyes at the phone display in the window in front of her. “Brilliant,” she breathed, tilting her head to look at it better. “I swear, technology is absolutely amazing, progressing each and every day. And it flips! How incredible is that?” she beamed

“No surprise parties. I don’t like those either … maybe that’s the real reason why we got married.” Jim laughs softly while gently squeezing the hand in his own. They really are perfect for each other. He just prefers to be expecting something to happen instead of randomly coming home to an unknown gathering in his home … or anywhere.  The idea of someone jumping out at him would quickly become a stressful situation so it’s better for everyone if surprise partners don’t happen. They can be fun for other people but never for Jim. He doesn’t understand why people wouldn’t prefer planning anyway because then you can make an event perfect. “I’m very pleased with being your exception. I should put it on my résumé.” His expression softens while looking over at his fiancé, these are some of his favorite moments. “I was thinking that we should bring Niels in sometime. He’d love to meet all of your fish. Maybe I can bring him by after one of my shifts?” The cat is well behaved, never trying to get in any of the tanks at home. He learned to respect the fish’s space and just loves to watch from his cat tree. Jim personally thinks it’s one of the cutest things ever.

However, thinking about what to make for dinner is quite a task and didn’t think that far just yet but maybe he won’t have to tonight. “Wait, I like your idea much better! Lets pick up something on the way home. What about something from Rizzo’s? We could get one of their wood-fired pizzas.”

Namor has always been a serious man. Not one that is easily amused by things, but Jim seems to be very good at breaking all of Namor’s rules in the right way. Jim’s always brought out the best in him. Namor laughs, it’s as warm as it is fond. “Yes, exactly our hatred of surprises is surely the only reason we’re getting married.” Namor was sure he’d never find anyone who’d complete him again. Set in his ways, far too stubborn for anyone to enjoy being around him. He knows the type of man he is and he won’t go changing it for anyone. Expect Namor never had to change for Jim, he liked him just as he was in all his harsh edges and rough exterior. Not many people would even tolerate that much less love him for it but here stands Jim proud of his love with Namor, just as Namor is proud in his love for Jim. “Perhaps you should, anyone who knows me knows that is quite the feat. You should be thoroughly impressed with yourself.” Namor means it too. He’s a hard man to be around at times Namor is self aware enough to know that but his fiancé takes it in stride. The man’s face breaks out in a smile at the idea of bringing Niels into the shop. “I think that would be a wonderful idea. He’d have a field day, and it would be nice for the fish to begin to get accustomed to other types of pets.” Namor had never thought of himself as a cat person until he had met Niels. The cat is well behaved and enjoys the fish just as much as he does. The cat is content to watch the fish for hours, lounging as if it was his own personal television show. So he has no qualms with bringing the cat in. 

Often Jim wonders what Niels would do if they brought him into the shop. He can already imagine those paws trotting along the different aisles and trying to pick which tank to stop and look at first. He’s a well behaved cat, no doubting this in the slightest and just likes to watch the aquatic animals swim around. It’s a thought to think about for another time. He often brings Niels to work so one of these days it could very well happen. These are the thoughts that cross his mind while waiting for Namor to finish closing up shop. He knows how firm his fiancé is when it comes to rules and respects that about him. The sudden sound of a door closing makes Jim look over with his smile that radiates a familiar warmth. “Surprising you continues to be one of my favorite things.” His gaze looks down at their hands fondly. While they aren’t the type for public displays of affection, this is enough to make him feel happy. This is what makes them both comfortable, so often you can catch the blond reaching out toward Namor in some way when they’re seen together. “How could you kick me out of your shop?” Jim tilts his head slightly, trying to be cute in an effort to make a point. “Well now we can go home and relax. You can tell me all about your long day while I make dinner.”

as soon as he’d heard his best friend’s voice, rj perked up. of course she’d figure out some way to get into the station. he swore she was some kind of genius. a laugh rose to his chest as he bit the carrot stick with a loud snap. “suit yourself!” the long shift of the day was easily worn away by her company. he rolled his eyes playfully at her teasing, leaning back in his chair. a quip hot on his tongue before she’d offered up an alternative lunch choice for him. “have i ever told you how much i love you?” he responded as quickly as he reached over to grab the food. he’d always had a habit of eating ravenously, as if he never knew when he would eat again. he didn’t know where it came from but it was a habit he couldn’t seem to break. “looking for a story?” he asked in between bites, food very much so in his mouth as he spoke without care. 

The Barnes family has always been part of the upper-middle class. Maybe this is why they were so easily able to pack everything up and just relocate to Moscow like it was nothing. He never thought anything of it growing up but after getting older started to appreciate all the opportunities that came with who his parents are. However, just because you have money doesn’t mean that you’re better than anyone else. This was the last thing that James was taught by his mother — now, keeping it close to his heart and everything  else that he can remember about her. Maybe this isn’t the time or place for the Russian to start thinking about such things. His mind drifts back to Steve. They couldn’t be more different sometimes and yet seemingly fit together like two puzzle pieces. All of their habits rubbing off on each other the more they got to know each other after leaving the Army. Bucky set up some shoe racks by the door way — the top has their slippers and the bottom can be used for their dirty shoes from outside. He really doesn’t like mud or anything being dragged through the home. His mother didn’t like it very much after adapting the custom after they’ve been in Moscow for several years. He was still little and just looked at her and mimicked her behavior and it just stuck. This eventually rubbed off on Steve too and now they both take off their footwear when coming home or going to see a friend. “I don’t think cute is used to describe me often. You know back in Moscow people called me a brat?” James smiles as Steve holds his chin. “Ты мужчи́на мое́й мечты́. I don’t notice if anyone else is tryin’ because all I’m thinking about is you.” It could be so easy to lean in and just kiss him but refrains for now. “I didn’t help as much as I should have but you have to admit that you liked the view.” He teasingly nudges his husband’s side, laughing a little while he finishes enjoying the chocolate treat before putting it away.

“I’m thinking about making Rassolnik. We still have some carrots and barley at home but I have to pick up everything else. Will you hold the basket for me?” The man asks while they’re moving toward the front entrance of the grocery store again. It brings him a sense of pride at how much Steve loves his cooking — always making extra so there’s leftovers for him to take to work or eat the next day. “Next time we talk to them over FaceTime we’ll have to bring up the idea. I know coming here will take some planning but having them around for one of the holidays would be really nice. Maybe for Thanksgiving or New Years?” He gives the hand in his own a gentle squeeze before stepping into the building. These are all just ideas, of course. His father and sister can put in some input for when would best work for their schedules. No matter when it happened, the thought excites him. James is talking to himself, whispering different ingredients that they need. “Beef … baby pickles … celery …” Trailing off to being silent again and finishing the list in his head.

Translation: You are the man of my dreams.

Bucky and Steve had come from entirely different backgrounds. It was easy to see that, especially for Steve when they visited Bucky’s family for the first time in Russia. It was comfortable living and Steve was happy for Bucky. Steve has never been the type of man to be jealous over that sort of thing, no need to sit and wish that he had money growing up because despite it all, Steve enjoyed his upbringing. He was a big momma’s boy and often got picked on because of that but he wouldn’t change a thing. He adored the life that his mother tried to hard to provide for him. She worked herself to the bone and as he grew older the more he realized. He wishes now that his mom could be here, she would have adored Bucky, he just knows it. And she would have been so excited at the prospect of having grandchildren. But he knows most of all she’d be proud of him for making a life for himself. He doubts she would have been all that happy with him joining the army but seeing now that he’s an art teacher she would have let that little bit slide. Steve has to wonder if Bucky thinks the same of his mother, wishing she were here to see the life they were building. But Steve won’t think too much more about it, he doesn’t want to sour the mood with such sad thoughts. Instead he focuses in back on his husband. “Mm, you know I think I can actually see that. Little Bucky running around causing all sorts of problems for the neighborhood. Getting into enough trouble for all the kids in Moscow.” Steve teases, a grin spread wide over his face. He can see it already, their kids picking up Bucky’s attitude and running the neighborhood like they owned that place. The thought almost makes him laugh. “You’re gonna have to tell me what you said there, ‘cause you know I’m still working on my Russian. All I caught was man.” Steve tugs playfully on the sleeve of Bucky’s jacket a from of begging him to tell him what sort of sweet thing he’s saying. But he can’t deny that Bucky is right he did enjoy the view. “I guess you just got real lucky that you’re so pretty and that I’m a sucker for anything you do.”  Why deny that Bucky has him wrapped around his finger. 

closed starter for @gardenscfbabylon​ { rj boyle & lucy stevens }

rj walks back into the station, heading straight to the kitchen to grab his lunch. he’d worked an overnight shift and was in desperate need of a break. grabbing the handle of the fridge he swung it open, taking out his poor excuse for a lunch bag. he wasn’t necessarily one for meal prepping and it showed. but hey who doesn’t love a good ol’ peanut butter sandwich and a side of carrot sticks? he sat at the station’s table and began eating his lunch while the rest of the crew dispersed to do their own thing. hearing footsteps approaching as he ate he picked out a carrot and held it up, assuming it was another crewmate trying to pick at his lunch. “want a bite?” he asked with a hint of sarcasm. 

CLOSED STARTER FOR: Namor McKenzie / @gardenscfbabylon​ WHERE: Atlantis: Aquatic Pet Shop and Supplies 

How often do their schedules align so they’re going home at the same time? Jim decided to surprise Namor and stop by Atlantis along the way. He knows they’re about to close so it’s expected for the shop to be nearly empty by now. The idea was to try being sneaky but his boots against the floor make just enough noise to alert his fiancé that someone just walked in. He admits the fish for a moment before looking ahead of him with that signature warm smile. “It’s just me …” The blond leans against the counter, being patient until the other man comes out. “I missed you so much that I couldn’t wait until we both got home.”

Bucky is called a brat for good reason. He tries to behave as adults are expected to but his attitude and playful side coms out most often when spending time with Namor. It’s so easy to get under his skin! “Aw, come on! What if I just wanted to say hello because I was in the neighborhood?” He’s used to this reaction, not bothered at all. He takes another step into the shop. “I won’t annoy the fish this time, you have my word. My fingers are staying away from the glass today.” His expression still showing off the same joyous grin. The temptation remains but there will always be more ways to mess with his friend. “I don’t know how my cat would react to having fish in the house. She’s more of a brat than me.” James looks around at the different tanks and the aquatic animals swimming around in the meantime. “Are these new?” He asks while pointing to one of the aquariums. Which will probably cause Namor to start telling him all about them, huh?

        fingers tighten ‘round the body of her coffee cup,   lipstick marking the lid when she pulls it from her lips.   her attention is solely fixed on her phone,   thumb absentmindedly scrolling through her various social media feeds.   the bell above the door sounds,   pulling the redhead from her thoughts.   holding back a slightly irritated sigh,   she pulls her pen and notepad from the pocket of her coffee-stained apron and crosses the diner floor,   her customer service smile spreading across painted brims,   “howdy!   ‘m cherry ‘n i’ll be your waitress this evenin’!   now,   what can i do y’for,   doll?”

━━ ◤ ( THE TASTE OF SALT WATER, A RIGHTEOUS ANGER, FISH SCALES AND OCEAN BLUE ) welcome, NAMOR MCKENZIE, HE/HIM. before you move in, tell us what you remember: REJECTING A SEAT ON THE COUNCIL FOR KRAKOA AT THE HELLFIRE GALA. excellent, now we are pleased to accept your offer to live STARLING HEIGHTS APARTMENTS with JIM HAMMOND, and your new job as OWNER OF ATLANTIS: YOUR DESTINATION FOR AQUATIC PETS is waiting for you to begin. ( MARVEL/DANIEL HENNEY )

━━ ◤ ( SCROLL ) : You have forgotten who you are, you who commands the seas. The oceans quake in your view, your kingdom is a city thought to be lost. You are a terror, a friend and an enemy. You do not take prisoners and you are of the royalist of bloods. You are a king, do not forget it again. But even kings have experiences horrors that no one else understands, your hands are stained with red that not even the deep depths of the ocean can wash away. 

There were a lot of compromises being made after they got married. One of the major ones they made revolved around food. Who would have thought the biggest debate you’d have as newlyweds would be over mayonnaise and sour cream? James grew up in Russia where those were two of the biggest staples in your household. His husband doesn’t like the condiments so they needed to come together and figure something out. Bucky won’t cook as many dishes each week that incorporate them but in return Steve will eat what he prepares on those days. They teach each other about their culture. He remembers trying to adjust to the larger portion sizes in America but sharing a large slurpee with Steve wasn’t going to happen. Bucky ended up getting his own that was a much smaller size. They were opposites in many ways but fit together like two puzzle pieces. He remembers the conversation they had once in the barracks, it must have been a test. Inquiring about his interest in having children someday. Bucky said yes and this must have been the correct answer considering that they were still together to this day. James simply smiles, always finding enjoyment in being spoiled. Nobody has ever made him feel this way before Steve came into his life. “You think everything I do is cute.”  Gently teasing but the playful grin decorating his face is obvious that he doesn’t mean anything negative by the words. “You’re the first person to ever spoil me and I cherish each moment you do.” What brought on their sappy moods today? He won’t question it but quickly laughter is spilling out of his lips. He remembers sitting in front of the biggest pile of potatoes and the worst peeler. James tries to hold in additional chuckles when Steve leans his head against his shoulder. “How many hours did we spend in that little room? It gave us alone time away from everyone else though, so maybe they were good for one thing.” He doesn’t interrupt the dramatics, knowing that the younger man often does this. Another piece of chocolate is broken off, eating it quietly while watching as Steve suggests going back inside. “Only if you promise not to spend another half hour talking to someone. Maybe I could pick up some ingredients to make soup for dinner tomorrow? I’m thinking Rassolnik unless you have any requests?” Often James takes out the largest pot they own, making a lot since his husband likes to have several servings. He’s just happy that Steve likes his cooking. He wraps up the other half of the chocolate bar, putting it into the pocket of his jacket for safe keeping until later. “It has been too long. Truthfully I’d love to bring them here for a visit. My sister has never been to America.” He reaches for Steve’s hand, beginning to head back inside of the store.