Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

— What I mean is, if this idiot wasn’t this fast, we’d probably lose half our matches against the Red — Soldier said as he waited for the others in the game to make their moves and with that, the blackjack they had been playing for the last two hours could continue. — I know he is a bastard, and a little shit, and a rat, and a dumbass, but its not like we aren't used to it and we cant see talent when someone has it, even if the someone is a fucking idiot —

— Thank you for the compliments Ross, same goes for you — Scout said, asking for another card. — Y’all gotta accept it, I make your jobs way easier, not even one of you idiots has the balls it takes to be the first in the line of fire, get to the points in time and be the main target of the Red team while outsmarting them, only someone like me is able to pull that off — He said, leaning back on his chair, his tone bordering on annoyance at the same time he bragged about himself. 

From the five men around Scout playing at the table, four of them groaned after hearing Scout talking, except Medic. The doctor, having his face covered by his mask and loyal to his style of zero to ten words per day, raised an eyebrow, staring directly at Scout in front of him. Something Scout noticed and just smiled, not only because he forgot about him but also to tease Medic a little. 

The conversation some of the Blu team members were in was about who was the most valuable mercenary among the nine. It eventually led to Soldier and Demoman arguing that Scout helped them the most, and most of the victories were because he made a movement at the last moment… Stupid or not, but a movement. 

Sniper was the one against the idea, claiming that Scout died too much and if it weren’t by him or Engineer, he would never get to the front alive, hell, maybe he would never get to see it in the first place. Engineer wasn't too interested in the conversation in the first place, just being the dealer of the game cards, and Medic well, not only he didn't talk too much but neither was interested in the dumb conversation… 

Was, because with what Scout said and the way he smiled at him, now he was all in. He mildly kicked Sniper next to him to get his attention, and once Virgil turned his head to him he pointed out himself, as if saying “You are forgetting about me”. Sniper smirked and nodded to the Medic, threw his hand of 19 points to the table and looked to Scout still smiling. 

— Y’know Greg, you forgot about someone as fast and great as you, maybe even better than you, no offense — Virgil crossed his arms, retiring from the game, he was about to start another game but instead of cards, with some ego. 

Soldier and Demoman looked from the corner of his eyes one to another, and then Scout that looked at his cards while Medic stared straight into the runner's soul. Enough to make them chuckle and join Sniper’s game. 

— Well, now that changes the overview, not only he runs, he attacks and heals, I think we found the most useful one — Demoman said, as he waited to Scout reaction or response, but looking at him and was just acting nonchalantly to whatever they said, so he knew where he was going to punch next to get that expected reaction… — And in my opinion, also the fastest one — 

Scout turned his head to Demoman as fast as he runs, with a raised eyebrow that was then frowned. That was exactly what the other three were looking for, a reaction to play with their two team runners, both already pissed, by different motives but sharing the same feeling: a broken ego and desire to compete and demonstrate. 

— What are you saying? Man, I'm the Scout for a reason, Ead is the Medic for a reason. I recognize ability when I see it, and I know that without him many of us wouldn't be here playing, but to call him faster than me? You’re joking — Scout responded to Demoman instead of looking at Medic. He wasn't annoyed about the others saying Doc was better than him, he was annoyed that they said Medic was faster than him, and nobody will ever beat him on that. 

— I wouldn't say that, when you’re up there with a scope, you see everything, Eadwulf gets to flank way easier than you, that needs some work with the legs — Sniper teased and leaned onto the table in direction to Scout, looking at Soldier and Demoman smiling mockingly at Scout. 

Engineer, who some minutes ago lost the plot of the discussion, judging the way they were talking and looking at each other made him return to the table, especifically… To Medic. The doctor was staring directly at Scout, he hadn't moved at all since the exchange of words between the others started, waiting till Scout had the courage to look at him. 

Then, he looked at Scout, who was trying his hardest to defend his speed against Soldier, Demoman and Sniper, going way more aggressive with Sniper and vice versa while the other two just laughed or threw one or another comment to keep the fire going. 

The whole thing was weird, yes it was, but was way more worrying knowing exactly how this would end. It wasn't the first fight about stupid things between them, it wasn't going to be the last one also, but it definitely was about to be the first one where Medic was involved; who would heal them after it in that case? 

Engineer knew he had to do something, whatever to stop this nonsense and prevent the fight for today, not only he was tired from the battles and from these guys but also, it was a stupid fight that could be solved… In a practical way, so with that, they could solve the dumb doubt of who is actually faster than the other. 

— Why don't you two just race and see who is actually the fastest? — Fred finally spoke after being silent during the whole argument, in the exact moment to prevent Sniper and Scout getting started into the physical fight. — I mean, is the easiest way, just pick a place and if they agree, we prove it… We can do several types of competitions even, what do you think boys? —

The mercenaries froze in place, the four arguing drove their attention to Engineer except Medic, who was still staring at Scout. They all thought about it for some seconds, Sniper being the first one to agree on the idea and with that, Soldier and Demoman followed, now trying to make Scout and Medic convinced about it. 

— Im ‘k with that, it would be fun and also we finally find who is the best one here, good with it?, do- — Scout couldn't finish his sentence before being surprised with that devilish and plain stare the Medic had whenever he got mad with them. 

He felt fear slowly climbing his back, something telling him that the blue eyes piercing his soul had been there even before the discussion started. 

He swallowed and turned his whole body and attention to Engineer, in an attempt to ignore Medic. — I-I think Ead agrees, so umm, where should we do this race? Now that you all insist —

— You gotta do it somewhere with open space, you two always crash against walls or people, what about near Flagrun? We captured it since last week, it's ours by now — Engineer suggested to both the Scout and Medic, who now were looking at him with a mixed look of revenge and tiredness. — It has nice flats nearby, I reckon… You could try measuring times, race with armor and weapons and race without them — Fred was starting to get involved, not only giving the ideas but on the inside, wanting to be the one refereeing this competition. 

— I'm in — Medic said, as he stood up from the table and took his medkit which was hanging from the chair and threw the strap across his shoulder. — Virgil, you tell me date and time — and those being the only words he would say that day, Eadwulf went out of sight into the base, probably to the medbay where he spent most of his time. 

— Tell doc that I see him tomorrow during the ceasefire hours near Flagrun, lets see who gets there first — Scout told Sniper principally, but making everyone know when and where this running time was taking place. — Gotta go, Im fucking done for today, see’ya tomorrow guys — Greg got up and started heading to the locker rooms to get ready to sleep, it was 10:29 pm and tomorrow he will have to show why he is who he is. 

— As easy as that, we get the two team’s rats about to run for their lives, see y’all tomorrow boys, and get ready just in case we need to clean a mess — Engineer started to pick up the cards over the table to make the deck again and leave it for later. 

— This is going to be so much fun — Demoman said chuckling, while he also got up from the table and headed to the halls followed by Soldier and Sniper. 

— We are about to see two grown ass men fucking fucked in the head to kill people every day as mercenaries… About to race, as if they were kids — Soldier joined again with the mocks, making their other teammates laugh as they all went to their dorms. 

— It's so ridiculous and funny, we should bet on this. I will tell Peter if he wants to lose something, I'm going all for doc — Sniper added as he laughed, leaving his friends in the hall and going inside the dorm room. 

Just like the others, they shared the room with three mercs, and meanwhile Medic wasn't there, he had all the time to make Spy risk something to him. — Heya Peter, good evening, gotta ask you something —

— What is it now? — Spy looked from his bed to the figure of Virgil getting into the room and that was getting closer to him, whatever it was, it wasn't something good nor that will help them; it was going to be something really stupid. 

— Do you want to lose a bet? —

Chapter Text

It was around 12:00 pm, the week’s hour where both teams got a ceasefire, commonly used for planning attacks, making strategies, cleaning the guns and preparing for the rest of the day’s battles. But today, some members of the Blu team were about to use those hours into a more important task: a race.

Near Flagrun, a place in the middle of the desert’s gravel pits and one of Scout’s favorites, he was already there with Soldier and Demoman, waiting for the arrival of Engineer and most important, Medic. Scout was warming up, stretching and mentally preparing to focus on what he was about to do: not only demonstrate his best ability, but also defend his pride and ego, which was greatly damaged yesterday in that card game. 

— Y’know Greg, you better win this or you will pay the bets me ‘nd Ross made with Virgil and Peter, monetary ‘nd physically — Demoman said, leaning on the wall and watching Scout warming exercises, he and Soldier being the ones siding for him and hoping he really wins this nonsense of competition. 

— Not only us, Bea made a bet with Viktor that you’ll win to doc — Soldier threw the comment and continued smoking his cig, Demoman covered his mouth with his hand in an attempt to not laugh. Ross didn't have to say too much, just the name of Pyro was enough to motivate or to frighten Scout, who already knew what Pyro was capable of doing to him if he made her lose, even if it was something stupid like this. 

— Oooh, I would start moving that skinny ass of yours and run for my life in that race if I was in your place — Gregor said between laughs, Soldier joining him after listening to Demoman's mock. 

— I’ll show you why I am the Scout, you won't lose today guys, I promise — Greg stopped his warming, he was ready and now having to wait for Medic. If something can be noticed, he wasn't as annoyed as yesterday, his tone being more excited and confident about this show up. — Now, where the hell is this bastard? —

— Right here, ribs — Sniper’s voice answered the question. He arrived with Medic, who looked way more relaxed than in yesterday’s discussion, and just as confident as his support class partner next to him. — Worried, Greg? We saw your jumping jacks from the distance, sadly all that preparation won't help you in the actual fight against doc — Virgil made fun of Scout before leaning on his arm in the wall, trying to make him mad before starting, just to have some advantage. 

— It's not preparation, it's basic knowledge and common sense if you don't want to get a cramp or hurt yourself running, ahhh but what do you know about that? You imbecile spend all day in the same place looking through a scope and still failing even to shot a fucking still target, the only cramps you ever feel is from your hand after jerking off all day and then asking why the hell you dont have good aim — Scout responded without looking at Sniper, but if he had, his eyes would be piercing at his body the way the nails do when being on battle. 

Soldier and Demoman laughed loudly at what Scout said, even Medic smiled and he knew that by looking at his eyes and seeing them closed and hearing small chuckles from him. He wasn't saying lies at the end, which made it even funnier to the others. 

Medic also did some warming, just stretching himself and making easy movements, some of his bone contractures making cracking noises as he did all of this. Confidence was his main feeling right now, and by that, also being relaxed as he has ever been, this was about to be a fun proof about his real speed. 

— Sorry for being late, oh gosh, you two really needed to do it at this hour? The sun is burning everything at sight — Engineer finally arrived, bringing three teleporters with him and placing them: one in the side of Medic, the other in the side of Scout, and the last one in the middle of both but behind him, what were they for? 

— You are just in time Fred, they are waiting, more Scout than Medic but here they are, ready as I have ever seen them — Ross answered, finishing his cigarette and throwing it to the ground to turn it off. — Greg chose this hour, he is here, the same for Ead, I don't see them too bothered about it —

— I’m not, I’m used to running in this weather now, two years doing it daily does really change a man, I think the same goes for doc — Scout looked at Medic some meters next to him, who nodded at what Greg said and then both drove their attention to Engineer. — So, what are we doing? What are the teleporters for? —

— Heh, there I’m going, y’see… We will make at least four different races, each one with different conditions so you two don't get mad and also have more opportunities, and for us, a way to really determine who is the fastest of the fastest. — Fred stood up in the middle of both runners, explaining what he had planned hours before. The other three men smirked when listening to the determining ways part of Engineer’s speech. 

— This first one, a straight and flat circuit, a normal race, you will start from where your teleporters are till where the flag is… at least… 1.2 miles away from here I reckon, you return and the first one who gets teleported behind me wins this, good with it? —

— Good, and ready — Scout said and Medic nodded. Greg stood next to his teleporter, crouching a little and standing with his tiptoes, his right leg in front of the left one and arms to his sides. — No bunny hops? —

Medic crouched completely, his right leg folded beneath him and the left one stretched, hands side to side in the ground and standing on his tiptoes. Looking just as the athletes do before starting a race. Unlike Scout, he knew this was a plain terrain and he was at a slight disadvantage about speed, he knew it well and would try this to get a small bonus of impulse at the start. 

Soldier and Demoman got closer to Scout, and Sniper got closer to Medic, they wanted to see all the action in the first line, and more with this start. 

— Nope, this is a running competition, but you should reserve jumps for later — Fred answered Greg’s question before giving the signal, to make clear the instructions again. — Alright! Ready… Set… Go! — And with the Engineer’s signal, both the Medic and Scout sprinted into the field, leaving nothing but dirt as they ran. 

Both were leaving a dust trail behind them, their starting positions gave them an explosive burst of speed that helped them in the first meters of the race. Medic was ahead by a few centimeters, his technique of going like in professional athleticism helping him with those first meters, but Scout was faster than him by nature; it didn't take too long for Scout to overtake Medic, getting ahead by at least 3 meters. 

They both got to a point on half the path where they settled to a pace, they knew they had to reserve energy and were doing it on their own ways: Scout was jogging at a sustainable pace while Medic kept sprinting, trying to at least get to the same level Scout was. The heat was starting to get to his head, and his mask wasn't making it easier either, this truly was a testing for his speed and endurance. 

— Holy fuck, they are fast — Demoman said as he watched with the others the race from the starting point, watching how the silhouettes of both runners got mixed with the heat waves of the desert and disapearing into the remoteness. 

— Imagine being fucked by one of those two, I wonder if they move like that in bed — Sniper threw the comment and got confused stares from their teammates, he just stared back at them with a frown, not understanding exactly what was wrong. — What? We make gay jokes all the time, now you are offended? —

— I get we tend to play between us, but that was way too gay Virg — Soldier said returning his eyes to the path. Looking at it, he could see Scout and Medic moving but couldn't tell if they were still going or already heading back. — You better move those fucking legs faster, you little piece of shit! —

Meanwhile, Scout and Medic were getting closer to the flags. Both took too much time on it, Scout couldn't stop easily and made a long and slow turn around the flag to continue the final half of the path, and Medic tried to take the flag and put it on his back to take it with him as a proof he got there. 

After it, Medic took the lead, but now for more than just 3 meters, the turn Scout made actually affected him. But not for long, he returned to his past pace, getting in seconds to Medic’s level and easily passing him. Medic knew this would happen, he started sprinting again and with the reserved energy got to be side-by-side with Scout. 

They started to see the teleporters and the others, it was now or never, time to give everything they had left. Medic’s sprinting got faster, he was going all in, his energy rushing as fast as his heart was beating and leaving behind Scout. 

— YES! COM’ON EAD! IT 'S NOTHING LEFT! — Virgil shouted to Medic, watching him leave Greg behind. 

But at the same time, Scout was about to demonstrate why he should be called “the fastest”: he also reserved himself for the last, and with a fast change of pace, he sped up in an explosive sprint, Medic was left behind and Scout got to the teleporter by a large margin of difference. 

He got teleported first, right behind Engineer who raised his right hand which was Scout’s side, symbolizing this first victory for him. 

— Greg wins — Fred said, stopping the stopwatch he got to measure the time and looking behind him. 

Medic got to the side of his teleporter and slowed down with a jog till getting to a wall, where he finally stopped and fell to the ground using the wall as support, taking off his mask and panting for air. 

Scout wasn't as tired as Medic, even though his breathing was fast and sweat was all over his face. He took off his cap and glasses, cleaning the sweat with his sleeve and resting on his knees to breathe, but with a smile on his face knowing that he won this first race.

— LETS GOO! FINALLY YOU’RE USEFUL YOU TWIG — Demoman cheered and shook Scout from where he was recovering. — Three more to go and you’re done, Ead will suck your dick for the rest of his life —

Greg stood up and looked at Gregor with a grin, being genuinely happy with his victory. He then went to check on Medic, who was still recovering and his face still flushed, but not as altered as he was a moment ago, next to him was Sniper holding Medic’s helmet. 

— Doc, you alright? — Scout got to sit next to Medic, who nodded and dried his sweat on his sleeve before putting on his mask again. They both sat together for a moment, each of them received a bottle of water from Engineer and just as opening it, chugging all of it at great speed and in terms of seconds. — Glad to run with you, good race — 

— You two really put on a show, four minutes thirty-seven seconds Greg, you better not be doing drugs eh — Engineer showed them both Scout and Medic the stopwatch before restarting it. — Doc, the flag wasn't necessary, it got a PIR sensor so I know if you really went all the way to it — Fred laughed a moment after seeing the flag on Medic’s back, Eadwulf groaned at the comment and took the flag out of his back, throwing it to the ground. 

— What the hell? Is this bastard even human? — Sniper said, surprised at Greg’s time. He threw Medic his helmet, looking at how he put it on again and slapped hands with Scout next to him. — Now what? You said they would run four times, Greg won the first one, that doesn't mean anything —

— That's why Fred made me go for this — Soldier returned, but now bringing ammo backpacks and armor vests and left them on the ground — Now you use this —

— You’ll run to the other side, right behind where you are sitting right now, but using your weapons and vest. This isn't just speed, but ability — Fred said and went to take the teleporters and move them to the next place they were running, which was the opposite side of where they were; just the part where the terrain stopped being flat and some slight rocks and dirt hills started appearing and mixing with the concrete builds and walls of the place, creating the forts and cover they had faced when being in battle before. 

— Oh God, this is going to be a walk in the park — Scout got up first and opened one of the backpacks, taking his shotgun, nailgun, and lastly his favorite: the crowbar. He put on the backpack, which still carried the ammo and some grenades, and then put on the light armor vest just below his clothes, feeling just as being in battle. — Y’know, it’s funnier when I actually get to use this thing — He said, while swinging the crowbar, throwing it and catching it again. 

— We know, we have seen you blow up the Red’s heads several times, you sadistic animal — Soldier looked at the preparation Scout was having, again, he made some movements to warm up before starting. — Maybe even more often than Virg —

— Hey! Seriously, what do y’all have against me today? Just ‘cause I bet on doc’s side or what? — Sniper complained to the others who were laughing at Soldier’s joke, gesturing with his hands and pointing at the others. 

— Oh trust me, we don’t have anything against you, just that you’re a fucking idiot — Demoman responded to Sniper, raising both of his hands and placing them side-to-side of his head. The jokes made everyone to laugh even harder, even making Engineer join. 

Medic was just smiling behind his mask listening to his teammates jokes, while also checking on the backpack, taking both of his shotguns, nailgun and slung the medkit over his shoulder, picked up the grenades and put them on his belt and finally put the medium armor under his ballistic vest. He was ready and looked just as when going into battle, and started to head where Engineer sat up the teleporters. 

— Well you four are worse than kids, c’mon Virg, don't get mad at them, we all want to have fun — Fred said to Virgil, they both knew each other even before joining the team, so Virgil now had gotten used to the taunts against him. 

Sniper groaned slightly, following the rest closer to where the second test was about to be held. Medic and Scout went to stand up next to their teleporters, both doing the last warming up exercises before starting. Scout was feeling confident, having just won the first race and now having an easy test of something he did everyday, was feeling ready not just to start, but to win. 

Medic wanted revenge, he also did this everyday but different to Scout, he not only was in combat but also healing the team and hearing cries of “MEDIC!” everywhere, he knew he had to crush Scout on this one and was about to demonstrate that their Doc could also move. 

— ‘K, easy, you will get to the control point at the very end and return, the first one teleported wins. You can jump, take different ways, move as you want but can’t use grenades nor attack the opponent, alright? — Engineer gave the instructions again, the movements part making both competitors grin and already started looking at the map’s structures and planning their strategies. 

— So I can move inside Ead as this race’s prize? — Scout joked looking at Medic, which shook his head while their friends laughed at the joke. He stood in the same position he took in the first race, standing on his tiptoes and making slight jumps as excitement crawled on him. 

— I think I’ll be the one fucking you now — Medic said grinning behind his mask, getting a surprised but entertained look from Scout and the same from their teammates, also some slight chuckles. He changed his starting position, taking a stance similar to Scout’s, the difference being he was way more tensed up than him. 

— Oh my God with you two, let's get started before you get freaky — Engineer also laughed at the jokes, but got ready to give the signal of start. — Here we go… Ready… Set… Go! —

The runners made their way with a fast start, taking different ways on the circuit in front of them. Scout chose to run to his right and went up a ramp that goes straight to the top of one of the buildings, while Medic went to his left and went in one of the lower structures to not get tired so fast in doing jumps. 

Scout knew the map, he had captured the points so many times it was carved on his mind. He ran on some walls that were thick enough for his feet, jumping at the border where these same concrete structures ended and getting to the top of another building. 

Medic had climbed up some moments ago, he was still behind Scout even if he was sprinting, but there he used the terrain for him: the walls in the path he chose were steep, not too much but enough to make anyone retreat a bit. He jumped to the wall, pushing with his feet and for a moment it looked like if he was running on the wall, using the same speed burst to get higher and land on top of a fort, getting at the same level Scout was. 

— Oh my fucking holy mother I love this stupid doctor with my life — Sniper said, he couldn't stop looking at Medic and his movements, being surprised with how only him could pull that off. 

— Man, just suck his dick at this point, Greg also does that! Look at him! — Soldier was also looking at how the race was developing. Scout made the same movement as Medic, he actually gave more steps on the walls and got higher thanks to his jumps, making him get farther and about to get to the point. 

Medic was too focused on Scout, he changed his view between the path and his opponent, speeding up and jumping right from the border of a building’s roof and landing with a slide, getting first to the control point and starting to head back, now going down in a straight line to get to his teleporter and with that, near his first victory of the afternoon. Scout, on the other side, was enjoying this, he knew Medic was already heading back so once he touched the control point decided to continue going on top of everything. 

Medic was giving everything he had, the heat making him feel like every step burned and sliding inside of the forts whenever he got across one. Scout was gliding over the walls, making them another part of his path, jumping from the border of roofs and using landing as an impulse. 

Medic was more focused on the race now, he could see his teleporter some meters close and was just a slide under a fort to win. He slid under a tunnel and climbed the hand stair to get up to the path again, but this one wasn't his victory either: he was one bar left to climb, when Scout made a last glide over the border of a roof, jumped and landed right in front of Medic, sliding directly to his teleporter and appearing behind Engineer. He made a frontflip right after being teleported and stood up perfectly; sweating, tired, but having his second consecutive win. 

— Greg wins, two against zero from four — Engineer said, as he turned back and looked at Soldier and Demoman hugging and hitting Scout aggressively and shouting in excitement to him. Medic teleported fifteen seconds later, falling to the ground panting and with an empty stare at the dirt in front him, completely destroyed. 

— Jesus doc, you need help? — Engineer watched Medic laying on the ground, his back rising and falling rapidly with every breath, he got closer to turn him onto his back and looked at Eadwulf staring blankly and with a flushed face. — Damn medic, you’re ‘bout to be the first one in the medbay at this point — 

— Don't worry Fred, I know exactly what to do — Sniper got down to his knees, taking off Medic’s helmet and mask, he took his head and placed it on his lap. Virgil opened a bottle of water and poured a small amount on his hand, wetting his friend’s head and lips; the very same way Medic had done before with him or Spy when they first were getting used to the desert temperature years ago. 

— You fucking idiot, do you want to kill yourself or what!? It’s a shitty fucking race and you are here panting as an animal in heat, and the worst of all is you’re losing! — Virgil scolded Eadwulf, who could barely do anything else but try to breathe the most air possible and regulate himself again; but even with all the insults he was receiving he thanked his friend and roommate for taking care of him just as he has done before, at least Virgil was being useful for the first time. 

— How are you doing doc? Happy with your boyfriend holding you on his lap? What a beautiful couple you make — Greg got closer and crouched a bit resting his hands on his knees when checking on Medic, who raised his hand to slap it with him and continue recovering, he wasn't mad at Scout but at himself for losing and being in this state, so they clasped their hands as if nothing had happened. 

Virgil was actually mad, at what Scout said and the fact that twig of a bastard won again. He moved and punched Greg on his crotch, making him retreat and hold himself in his lower parts area while laughing. — Fuck off you animal, You’re dead on the next one — Virgil showed him the middle finger and continued to check on Medic. 

— Oh my God, I really CAN’T wait to get to the base and tell everyone I bet on the fastest of the team — Soldier said and got closer to Scout, throwing an arm around Scout’s shoulders while looking at both support mercenaries. — Man I already feel the victory here —

— C’mon Ead, if you can't continue don't worry, just give up and you won't have to suffer more — Demoman looked down at Medic, trying to cover him from the sunlight of the afternoon and grinning slightly at the sight. — Or you get up but probably you will throw up your lungs at half of the race — 

Medic started recovering his five senses, slowly sliding his hand to his medkit and bringing it closer to him. He pressed a button that started healing him, even if he wasn't exactly hurt, his body needed recovery and nothing better than some overhealing; he sat up right before the first overheal effects started on him, taking the water and chugging it until it was empty. 

— I’m ready, let’s continue —

Chapter Text

The mercenaries looked at Medic, how in just a minute he got fully recovered and was already on his feet. Eadwulf still had his medkit hanging from his shoulder, he took it and gave some overheals to Scout too, if they were going to compete they would do it on the same conditions. 

— Gosh, thank you doc, I love you — Scout clasped his hand again with Medic and now they finished it with a handshake and started to take off the backpack and leave his weapons on the ground. The fact that Medic was this stubborn and competitive was something he never expected from him, which only made Greg excited and happy to be doing these races. — Alright, what’s next Fred? —

— Good you are overhealed, ‘cause now you will run carrying the same weaponry, let’s see how well you adapt — Fred grinned at the two runners, looking at their confused expressions about this third test. — Ross, please, give these boys their ladies —

Soldier nodded and dumped into the ground two of the heavy ammo backpacks and two heavy armor vests, the packs making a loud thump as they hit the ground in front of both competitors. 

Scout and Medic looked not only confused, scared, even if they had their strength, they had never carried the heavy armor or guns like some of their teammates do. They got closer to the backpacks, opening them and Scout easily recognized what was inside them. 

— What the fuck Fred!? You want us to carry Ross’ shit!? Who do you think we are!? Viktor!? — Scout turned and yelled at Engineer, who started laughing at the reactions of both men in front of him, watching Medic trying just to lift the rocket launcher and not even lifting it above his knees. 

Soldier, Demoman and Engineer were laughing at the attempts both skinnier men were doing to figure out how they were supposed to run with this, or hold them in the first place. It wasn't that they were weak, it was that Soldier’s loadout wasn't built for them. 

— Use your brain ribs, you spend all day with two of the team’s brutes, you should already know how they carry their shit. — Sniper got closer to Scout, even if he was mad some moments ago he wasn't going to make fun of them. He needed the race to continue and that was the only thing he wanted right now. — Tell that to Ead, who’s always with me and that string bean of Peter, but you? Hell, if at this point you can't carry a rocket launcher or flamethrower, I will start to question what type of man you are… Or if you even are a man — 

Scout looked and heard still to Sniper, even if the last comment made him angry, he knew Virgil was right… But how was he supposed to even lift the stuff and then place it? Now he was regretting not doing enough training hours on the base gym, at least he would be more muscular and carry all this for the race. 

— Alright, c’mon Greg, let’s give this skinny rat some help, I don't want our golden boy to break in half when he is about to win — Soldier and Demoman went to pick up the weapons Scout would use, and started to give him instructions and place the armor and rocket launcher on him, having problems because Greg could barely endure with the heavy vest and couldn't get past that part. 

On the other side, Medic left the rocket launcher on the ground again, doing exactly what Sniper told Scout: he might not be the strongest, he might not be the “muscle” of the team, he might not have the same physical build of Ross… 

But he had dragged him out of the shots and fire in battle, he had carried Heavy to cover when he was wounded, he had helped Engineer lifting destroyed sentry guns to get him healed, he had pulled Demoman away when an explosion was about to affect them, he had held Pyro’s upright in assaults; and he had seen this very same teammates, hold their guns several times after being healed and carry them as nothing… He was the actual merc that held all of these brutes on strength, he was the strength, this should be a walk in the park. 

Medic took first the heavy armor, putting it inside his ballistic vest, it was a new weight on him but started to warm up with it to get used to the sensation. Once adjusted, he got down on one knee, put on the backpack with the grenades, ammo and shotguns and moved his arms to get used to the added weight. Finally, he took the rocket launcher firmly, and made an extra effort to put it on his right shoulder. The weight was pulling him down but took the time to adjust and started to get up slowly. Now, he was standing still, taking the weaponry of an unknown class but using his body strength and will to go next to his teleporter, waiting for the start of the race. 

Soldier and Demoman made their work, and between failures and laughs from them and Engineer, Scout was now using the armor and holding his guns without falling or tilting, feeling way more confident than some moments ago. If he could at least walk with this, he definitely could run this race. 

— Ok boys, I think now you’re ready, if something cracks or one of you breaks in half, we stop this, don't worry — Engineer was still recovering from his laugh, his back and smile hurting for this same reason, and he continued making fun of just looking at the two trying not to tremble holding Soldier’s equipment. — Again, you go to the control point, return and get teleported, you can’t do rocket jump, can't use grenades or attack the opponent —

Scout and Medic used another position, they were more invested in holding their weaponry, so they conformed to stand at his tiptoes and looking for the easiest path. Scout was feeling tired by just holding all this for the first time, but he had confidence, is he was already capable of winning two of four races and also carrying this heavy equipment, he could also win this one. 

Medic was also confident, not only he got armed faster than Scout, he had the motivation of realizing this wasn't as different to his everyday job and was as strong as his teammates, and also he wanted revenge and was going to have it. 

— Ready?.. Set… Go! — the third signal of the day and the one that made the two runners have to change not only their strategy, but their speed. 

They started slower than before, but even if for them it was “slow”, their teammates would actually say it was a normal pace. Medic took his similar route, he would go the closest possible to the ground and keep a regular speed to not get tired early. Scout made some changes while he started speeding, holding the rocket launcher across his back so he could run easily, he chose to go through the first floor some of the forts had, which actually would get him closer to the control point in time. 

Medic was moving fast but not desperate, whereas Scout was already running at full speed and jumping the buildings as if he carried nothing. Medic started to get used to all the equipment he was carrying, it wasn't as heavy as before, he could move better and was actually making jumps to get more used to the weight. 

Scout got first to the control point, he slid across it and once he got up again, his pace got slower and the speed decreased; he had used most of his energy in the first half and was about to pay for it in the second half, because all that equipment wasn't going to carry itself.

Medic got later to the control point, and to head back he chose to go on top of buildings: he had adapted to the equipment, it felt like another part of him, and now not only was he jumping, but could run on the walls, slide and continue running as if he was carrying nothing. 

— I think… Lil’ Gregory is about to get fucked in the ass by Doctor — Sniper looked at the race with a smirk, watching Medic get ahead of Scout by a big difference and moving as fast as the last race. — Just speculating! Not like Greg is struggling to even carry his own being —

— This bitch, how many times I told him not to skip the training hours, he should better win at least the next one or the one fucking him in the ass tonight would be me — Soldier looked and talked irritated, watching Scout gave everything he had to get past Medic but only to slow down again because he got tired before even getting closer. 

— Us, I will join too, he is doing this fucking pathetic — Demoman wasn't as mad as Soldier, but more disappointed, even though he already expected this even before the race started. 

— Three dicks will fuck him, oh poor Greg, but he was feeling victory, wasn't he? — Virgil got in the middle of Ross and Gregor, holding their shoulders and grinning at them, looking again at the race and how Medic was almost close to the finish line and Scout was trying with his life to get to his level and failing. 

— Man, Doc is ‘bout to do it for real, damnit, this could end in a draw — Engineer was also getting excited, even if he shouldn't be involved because he was the referee, it was impossible; Eadwulf was actually about to get his first victory. 

And just as expected, Medic made his last jump, from the roof of a fort and back to the ground. The overheals were effective and prevented him from getting hurt on landing. Running with all his speed and appearing behind Engineer, and even after being teleported, he continued running. 

— LET'S GO DOC! FINALLY YOU WIN — Sniper watched Medic open his arms and run against him, he thought Medic wanted to celebrate with him so he spread his arms and grinned. But Medic’s plans were different: Virgil saw how Medic lunged to him at high speed, like a wolf pouncing his prey. — Ead?!- —

Soldier and Demoman moved out of the way and looked behind, watching perfectly how Medic and all the stuff he carried knocked Sniper down into the ground. 

— And Ead wins! A score of one against two — Engineer also looked behind, after hearing the loud thump and Sniper’s scream after Medic’s teleportation. Laughing at the scene and how Medic was sitting on Sniper’s torso and punching him as if his life depended on it. — That's what you get from getting your doctor mad at you, Virg, be careful next time —

— Fuck it! Ead stop! What did I do to you!? I’m on your side you stupid animal — Virgil was covering his face with both of his arms and receiving every hit on his body and head from Medic, who was enraged but still could hear some laughs from him.

 Scout got teleported a minute later, slumping on the ground, he couldn't even breathe properly and moving felt like torture. He was facing the ground, completely destroyed physically and morally, and literally eating dirt now. He was trying to say something but everything came out as gibberish and muffled mumbling, but if someone besides both support mercenaries got closer to him, they could hear a “help me” on every muffled sound Greg made. 

Soldier and Demoman got closer to Scout, laughing not only because of the beating Medic was giving Sniper, but also looking at the state Greg finished. They weren’t that annoyed as some minutes before, but they still would get revenge on the fact that Scout was just one race from winning and finishing this competition, and he lost. 

— You thought you would win right? Well look at you, trembling like a whore after getting fucked, but how many times I told you not to skip the gym training with me — Soldier lifted up Scout, holding his chest from behind and making him get up. He took off the backpack that Greg still carried and threw it on the ground, pressing him to his body and serving as a support wall for him. — We should beat you too, or even ask Ead if he would like to do it for us —

— Man, what happened to you? You started good, you are one race from winning and decided to fuck everything, you better win the next one if you don't want to get the shit beaten out of you when we return to the base — Demoman was laughing at the same time he took off the heavy armor vest from Scout, looking at his sweating face full of dirt and the state his body was, similar to a ragdoll that could barely stand up for himself. — C’mon, we took the heavy stuff from you, now get recovered — Gregor took off Greg’s cap and glasses, opened a bottle of water and threw half of it on his face, not only taking off the dirt but also refreshing him a little, making the shorter man came back to life. 

— Ahh! Shit, Ross I promise I won't skip training with you again, gosh I feel like a train ran over me — Scout stood up again by himself, drying some of the water on his face with his own uniform and stretching a moment his back, a painful crack sound coming from him as he slowly recovered strength and breath. 

On the other hand, Medic and Sniper were still involved in their own fight, grappling one another. Virgil was holding Eadwulf’s wrists and trying to stop him from beating him, and Eadwulf was moving aggressively to get out of the taller man's grip but laughing at the fight he was pulling and at Virgil’s terrified look. 

— Boys, I know y’all joke about fucking one another, but whatever you two are doing doesn't look like a game anymore — Engineer looked a little confused at both the apparent “fight” Medic and Sniper were doing, the position they both were in being kind of… “intimate” and suspicious, his comment making both support mercenaries turn their attention to him and stopping for a moment. The confused and angry looks on their faces made Fred laugh, wondering how these men could come up with the most sadistic ways to kill someone… Yet still act like complete idiots. 

This moment anyways, was used by Medic to punch Sniper on his stomach with all his strength and get up from him, making Sniper yell in pain and hold his abdomen while rolling on the ground. — Much better — was all Medic said, after it, he took the equipment off, feeling relieved and motivated for this last race. If he won, they would be at a draw, but it was better than losing. 

Scout was putting on his cap and glasses, already recovered from the past race but really tired, he had pushed himself farther than he knew was possible, and doubted if he really would win this last one. He considered Medic was getting better with each race, and now his legs felt destroyed, the confidence he got before was disappearing. 

Before he could continue wondering, he felt his strength return slowly to his body, a relief filling him and making him feel as if he just woke up in the morning. He turned back as he heard the characteristic sound of the medkit healing, finding Medic giving him more overheals to recover once again and his hand waiting for a slap. Scout chuckled at the same time he clasped hands with Medic, happy to be competing against him and being such a good competitor too. 

— Oh doctor, if you weren’t using that respirator mask of yours, trust me, I would kiss you — Scout laughed as he received the last heals, looking at Medic smile with his eyes and pointing at the teleporters, as telling him “let’s go”. — Sure thing, let’s finish this, if I win or we end this in a draw, and see who’s actually the fastest — 

— Y’know, it’s the first time I fight against that bastard and it surely is the last time — Sniper finally stood up again, going with Soldier and Demoman and using them as support to stay standing as he was recovering from the beating Medic gave him. — I-I feel like I was railed or something, shit, I need the heals more than Gregy —

— Railed? You? I think it was the opposite, you two were really comfy with that pose — Demoman started teasing Sniper, but still holding one of his arms over his shoulders so he didn't fall. — How many times has Doc ridden on you, uh? Because that wasn't a “straight fight”, if you know you know —

— We should ask Peter about that anyway Greg, he looks like if doc broken in half his spine — Soldier joined to annoy Sniper, grinning at Demoman’s jokes and adding more, making Gregor laugh and angering Virgil with the taunts. — It was still a beating if you’re here not even capable of standing by yourself, another twig to the rib’s club — 

— Oh shut up you two, next competition should be a boxing one, let’s see if you are as funny as now — Sniper got off from holding both of his teammates, he was genuinely getting annoyed now and crossed his arms over his chest, not animated to continue in this game for some time… short, but a time. 

— Now THAT is what I call a competition — Engineer heard the conversation after he finished the last preparations for the final race, wondering if they could do it to at least find a way of entertainment and training with it. He got closer to both Scout and Medic, looking at them and then at the Flagrun place again, pressing a button on the teleporter behind him which made all the automatic doors and barriers open. The fortification was now opened completely and free from any limits.

— Alright, for this last race, you’ll run the whole map, carrying nothing, not having to return and without limitations more than just the ones of the map. You can use any movement, path, or strategy, at the last control point there are two teleporters, the first one who gets teleported behind me, wins.— Fred explained the instructions for this last round, Medic and Scout getting excited and more active than before, now this actually felt like a real match. — And don't worry, there are sensors all over the map that will tell me if you really went over there or cheated, got it? —

— I got it — Scout looked to his side, where Medic nodded and was taking the position of the first race, hands in the ground and crouched body. — We’re ready Fred! — Scout took his same position, arms to his sides but hands were covering his thumbs, his body was also more leaned to the front than in past occasions. 

— Remember, or Greg wins, or we go to a draw… Ready? Set?... Go! — Engineer made the last signal of the day, making both runners take off toward the course to the circuit ahead of them. 

Scout rushed up the ramp on the left, getting on top of the fort and sprinting across the roof to get to the outside hall, he wasn't holding back, letting his speed do the work, his footsteps thudded against the dusty rooftop. It wasn't the first time he was over those forts, it wasn't the last one either, but it was the most important one. 

Medic chose a different path, he got inside the second fort, ran across the respawn room to the stairs and slid across inside the building, reached the bridge leading to the first fort and took the hall to the central yard. He was changing movements, from sprinting, to sliding, to “bunny hopping” and jumping, he had taken some of these paths in battle before, he knew perfectly it was faster taking shortcuts than running outside or over the buildings, just as he heard the light steps above him on the roof. 

They both arrived to the central yard, they were side-by-side, jumping at the same time and each taking a different route: Scout landed on one of the destroyed walls and jumped to the next fort, while Medic slid across the whole centre and going inside the building, which had the RED colors but the team hadn't touched it since last week. 

Their eyes met for a split second as they crossed paths. Scout was surprised to see Medic to his side and Medic was astonished by seeing the jump Scout was capable of doing and continuing as if nothing had happened, reaching the RED first fort easily. 

Medic got inside and quickly ran over the walls of every hall to get to the final base before the end of the map, while he thought which way Scout would go and listened to his footsteps. He considered two possibilities: either Scout will try to jump from the first RED base to the other one and get to the end, or he descends and tries going down directly. 

He remembered something: Scout liked Flagrun because he always said there were “many fun ways to jump”, and one of those involved whenever he was close to the enemy respawn room and surprised them by falling and blowing up their heads with his shotgun. He knew it from the many times he would find Scout again on spawn and tell Demoman to follow him till there with the excuse of “having an idea”… The only way possible without the REDs noticing… Was running through Flagrun's walls and landing where the teleporter was, he had to descend if he wanted to get there! 

Medic ran across the bridge, watching Scout run on the roof of the first base, and with it his strategy was done. Medic made bunny hops to get faster to the last entrance that faced directly where the RED spawn room was, and by the moment, the teleporter.

Scout was keeping an eye on Medic, he went inside the whole time and couldn't know where he was more than hearing footsteps or squeaking metal sounds from whenever he slid, making it difficult to follow his way or predict the movements. He saw the steep wall ahead of him, surely would give him the last push. He had run over that wall so many times and each one was much funnier than the last one. If he did it now and jumped after two steps over it, he would get teleported instantly. 

Scout was about to jump when he suddenly heard wooden crates break some meters next to him, and then Medic sliding all the way out of the fort and the momentum carrying him in direction to the teleporter. His attention locked onto Medic. Everything else disappeared. The adrenaline of realizing he was about to lose wiped every plan from his mind, making him crash against the wall he was waiting for and pushing him into another direction, he landed clumsily on the border of the balcony where Medic had just slid through and forced a jump into the teleporter’s place. 

All this time they were at the same level, and now were actually side-by-side to finish the race, Medic a fraction ahead from Scout. 

But that deviation from Scout’s original plan of jumping from the wall, was his biggest mistake, when Medic landed first on the apparatus and disappeared from his sight. 

— Eadwulf wins it! — Said Engineer, after Medic got teleported behind him and continued sliding before coming to a stop and getting back to his feet in one smooth motion. Then Scout was teleported just after Medic, and was able to see how his opponent finished in complete perfection. — Two against two, and we get a draw —

Sniper jumped to Medic’s back, excited for finally seeing him get first and keep Scout from winning. Medic staggered for a moment but laughed at Sniper’s action on him, feeling happy and confident after his race; He got revenge, but it wasn't revenge against Scout, it was revenge against himself. 

— I love you fucking bastard, you did it finally, hell, you should have done it since the beginning — Sniper got down from Medic’s back, pressing down his head and hard hat as teasing but also his way to congratulate him. — You surely are the best one of this team, after me, obviously —

Both Medic and Sniper heard Engineer scream, turning back and found a really peculiar scene: Demoman was holding Scout from the back and cursing at him, while Soldier punched his stomach not holding back, and Scout was trying to kick Soldier far from him and ended up hitting Engineer’s abdomen. 

— WE FUCKING TOLD YOU, YOU WERE ONE POINT FROM WINNING AND DECIDED TO MESS ON IT, STUPID TWIG OF A MAN — Demoman didn't sound mad, but more like pretending to be, he was grinning at the same time he grappled Scout and snickered every time Soldier hit him. — Oh and get ready when we get to base and tell Bea what you did —

— These are caresses compared with what would happen later — Soldier continued using Scout as a punching bag, he actually looked angry and didn't even care that Scout was kicking him. He waited for the next kick and held both of Greg’s legs from his thighs, getting in the middle of him and closer, about to continue when he heard Virgil laugh with Medic. — You two shut the fuck up if you don't want to be the next one! —

— Oh man! Trust me, I don't want to be held like that from you, you’re not my type — Sniper continued laughing and leaned over Medic’s shoulder. Seeing how the situation was now inverted and Ross wanted to absolutely break him in half. — Don't get mad at Gregy, he made his effort, just he couldn't against Ead —

— I think the same, I ain't asking for ‘nother kick like that, stop it now or you are actually about to kill Greg — Fred was still recovering from the loss of breath, he got closer to separate Ross and Gregor. They both threw Scout to the ground and Engineer gave him a hand to stand up. — C’mon son, you two did good —

Scout got up, coughing and breathing slowly, not only because he got beaten, but also because he was tired from the race. It had been enough for today, but he didn't win, and it was so close, all for a stupid mistake that happened again: crashing against things. He rested on his knees, feeling dizzy and with blurry vision; hell being beaten by Ross was something he was used to, but never by his actual strength, which left him panting like this. 

— And now what, Fred? None of them won, this was stupid to do — Soldier crossed his arms, not as mad as before but still irritated, who would knew he would take this (Precisely) stupid plan seriously. — Who’s the winner? —

— I’ll see what we can do to solve this, but other day, this two boys need to rest and I’m sure the ceasefire is about to end — Fred started to pick up the teleporters they used, later he would come for the last one inside Flagrun, right now he wanted to get to the base and refresh himself from the hot weather before the next mission. 

— Lets head back, I’m also tired even though I didn't run like a dog — 

They all followed along, Scout was going at the back of the group, still thinking about that moment he hit the wall and what he could have done to not end like that. Probably he would have won, he would have proved everyone his ability, he would have proved to himself what kind of mercenary he was, but no… He messed up, there was no way to prove himself anymore. He felt defeated, even though he didn't show it, he felt like a complete loser in this stupid competition he chose to do.

He felt a hand on his back, looking to his side there he was: Medic. He looked at him, seeing Medic turn his head to his direction and raise his hand, waiting for a slap again. Scout did not hesitate and clasped his hand with him, smiling and feeling much better, Medic smiled with his eyes and they continued walking at the back of the rest of their teammates. 

— Y’know, I’m happy that I raced against a fucking bastard like you doc, thank you for it — Scout was slightly pushed to his side, snickered knowing Medic was the one that did it and got closer again, throwing his arm around Eadwulf’s shoulders and walking together. 

He was proud of him, yes, but also joyful from having not only the best doctor with him, the best friend and sprinter… After him, clearly. The first one that pushed him into his limits but also made him recover those same limits, someone that motivated him into being better and helped him after it. 

Medic was also happy, for having not only these idiots who could do a whole competition out of idiotic arguments, but for having a friend and great merc to his side who could swear and at the same time flirt with him, and feel completely confident around him. He was pushed to new and unknown ground about his abilities, but now having broken those boundaries, he had to thank Scout for it.

Chapter Text

— There you are! Please, tell this fine lady that Doctor won and you all will pay the bets as the men of your word you’re — Spy said in a relieved tone, gesturing with his right hand, first at the group coming from outside and then at Pyro in front of him. 

In the common room were Spy, Pyro and Heavy, the three mercs who didn't come to watch the competition but already knew they were coming from it. Judging by the way Pyro was looking at Spy, you could say they were arguing. Or at least something close to it; Heavy was sitting in the middle of both and actually entertained at the conversation in front of him and now more, looking at the arrival of the rest of the team and waving to them while a tired smile appeared on his lips. 

— In your wettest dreams, Greg surely won, or not? — Pyro turned his head to look at the mercs, giving them a curious look with a raised eyebrow and a slight smirk, waiting for the response from them. 

Engineer, Sniper, Soldier and Demoman stopped their walk, looking at each other and not exactly sure what to tell about the actual result of the race. Scout and Medic were too invested in their one-sided conversation from Scout, and they actually went walking all the way to the front of the others. 

Medic then noticed that the ambient was silent, and all the eyes were on them as the three mercs in the common room waited for a response. He put a hand on Scout’s shoulder, making the shorter man face him and he placed a finger over his mask as if telling him to shut up. Then both looked again to the expecting looks of their teammates. 

— Uh, about the thing, uh… Well, y’know we both are talented, we both are fast and… It was pretty difficult to get the winner so — Scout started to explain, stuttering on his talk and not exactly sure how he should say this. Mostly, he was intimidated by the way Pyro stared at him, even though he wouldn’t accept that. 

— You drew, didn't you? — Heavy finally said, crossing his arms but not annoyed, he had a smile and found it funny how both runners tried to justify themselves or not make too obvious the result. They both turned to Heavy, Scout went silent and Medic had a concerned look while they tried to look at the taller man and hold eye contact with him, failing completely and making Heavy chuckle at it. — I knew it, I was going for doc but I knew it would end like this —

— You gotta be fucking kidding us, really? — Spy frowned and put his elbows on his knees, a deadpan stare visible because of him having his mask off, judging specially at Medic. — You couldn't win against this twig? YOU? — Spy was clearly surprised but not in a good way, he was pointing it out at Medic and his tone was kind of disappointed. Medic crossed his arms and also frowned, turning his head to the side to avoid Spy’s stare, starting to get mad at the way his teammate and roommate looked at him. 

— WAIT WAIT! BEA I CAN EXPLAIN, WE BOTH WERE TIRED! Have you seen the sun at this hou- — Scout couldn't end his apparent explanation before he got punched on his stomach by Pyro, losing breath and folding over himself while holding his abdomen. 

— You should thank me it wasn't lower, you useless idiot, it was a stupid plan and in some way you both still screwed up… Especially you — Pyro was scolding Scout while he still recovered breath, she wasn't exactly mad but neither happy with the news of the results, more like disappointed. Hell, who would know they stayed at the base all noon arguing with each other about who would win and it ended up being an stupid draw? 

In terms of seconds the common room was turned into a two arguments at once, one being Soldier and Demoman grappling Scout, who was yelling it wasn't his fault and Pyro scolding him yet chuckling at the attempts the runner made to set free; and the other one was Engineer and Sniper defending Medic, Sniper being more energetic and rude about it as Spy argued back with them and the doctor still refused to look at Spy, even pouting behind his mask. 

Heavy, who still remained seated at the couch, couldn't help but snicker at their teammates' shenanigans. He found it funny how the events turned out: from a stupid argument, to a real competition in their free hours, and finally an argument again trying to defend the runners and themselves. 

He was tired from the day, fuck he was, but things like this were the ones that kept him on the edge of boredom and entertainment with his colleagues, and hell he was willing to see how the whole thing ended as both groups split their ways into the base and vanished from sight, but the swearing still audible to him, making him laugh as he remained alone now and the only noise of the common room being from him and his strange happiness feeling. 

—

Well was once again a battlefield, the noise from explosions and shots being fired all over the place made the ambience for the battle that was taking place, blood splashed from past deaths, scraps of ammo and nails dived on walls were some of the details scattered across the battlefield that day’s match. BLU team had a mission to retake the fortress, and RED team was defending it’s flag at gunpoint. They knew the first team to capture the enemy flag three times would win the mission and claim the place. 

They were currently two captures each one, but Blu was struggling more to keep the advance as the enemy team took the positions inside the bridge between the two yards. Every try of taking them down was harder than the last one, it didn't matter how many rockets, grenades, bullets or fire was being shot inside, it wasn't working out that good if those same classes were respawning every two or three minutes. 

— SCOUT! GO BEHIND US! We’ll handle this and cover you! — Soldier was covering with Scout outside the bridge, waiting for Demoman, who was coming from inside their fort, to try taking down the enemy with explosives. They went inside, Soldier shot some of his rockets, pushing back the RED Heavy and killing the RED Pyro. 

Scout saw the opportunity and rushed towards the RED Heavy, shooting him with his shotgun and killing him. 

Demoman went forward, covering with the wall and threw some grenades with his grenade launcher into the other part of the bridge, receiving several slug shots. Soldier was keeping the other side protected, keeping the REDs from advancing. Scout was in the middle, he couldn't go either ways or he would die instantly, there was just one solution: the sewers. 

— Going in, if you can follow me, do it — Scout said to Demoman, taking a deep breath and jumping into the sewer. He swam through the sewers and continued swimming to the part of the REDs yards, but he noticed the sewer was locked and he couldn't continue. Scout returned and went under the bridge to take air, listening to footsteps of the enemy above him and some of them jumping the channel, he was currently trapped in there not capable of going into the enemy’s fort neither going out without getting his head blown off from the RED Sniper. 

But he heard some fast slug shots and footsteps, he peeped out from the border of the bridge, seeing Medic jump from the border of the RED Sniper Tower and sliding down the hand stair, running to the door and pressing the button. — GO! — Medic yelled at Scout, who got out from the water with a jump and ran into the RED base, Medic behind him and both carrying and shooting their shotguns as they went inside for the last flag. 

— Medic! It's easier going through the stairs! Follow me! — Medic nodded, going behind Scout, both running faster than ever and outsmarting the enemy while going up the ramps. Scout dodged easily the explosives, hitting the RED Soldier and Demoman with the crowbar and giving them concussion; Medic went behind, watching Scout’s back, even killing the RED Spy in a lost round of bullets. 

They both got past the first elevator, jumping the short opening in the last floor and getting to the second elevator. — RETREAT! — Scout pushed Medic down, just as some sentry bullets fired at them, taking cover for a moment. They could hear the enemy Heavy going upstairs where they were, so Medic took out one of his hand grenades and threw it in the sentry direction. 

Medic went up the elevator again, shooting at the RED Engineer and getting past the destroyed turret. Scout looked at it and ran across the border of the metal base to get to the RED’s flag room, but from the corner of his eye he looked down, watching the RED Scout running with their flag across the bridge. Shit, the bastard was fast, not as fast as him but still enough to get that last capture right now. It felt like the time stopped, and he needed to decide: whether to kill the bastard or getting the flag, he was so close but if his counterpart got to the capture point, they would fail. 

But then, just like an angel (or devil, judging who was) sent from above (or below), Spy shoot the enemy and secured their flag for now. Scout continued running to the flag room, taking the flag and putting it on his back, now the worst part was ahead: returning. 

When he got out the room, he heard the announcement of having taken the RED flag, he saw Medic shoot the nailgun against the enemy Sniper, he helped with his own nailgun and received some of the submachine shots on him. Medic quickly took his medkit and healed them both, not for too long because they needed to get out of there as quickly as possible. 

Both runners looked down from where they were, seeing the bridge and at the sides that greenish water from the sewers, they looked at each other and nodded, before jumping at the water down them.

They quickly swam and got out, going right and shooting at the hall, they weren’t landing shots more than intimidating or trying to get time from being the main target of the RED team right now. 

They knew they had to pass in front of the enemy respawn rooms, they sped the most they could and jumped the walls to get a burst. Medic accidentally pressed a sticky bomb, making them both fly past the hall and land close to the RED fortress’ door. It opened in front of them, getting up and continued running, Medic covering the flag’s carrier and Scout making sure to get the fastest possible to the bridge cover, when a sudden pain hit his leg, blood splattering and the Sniper’s bullet piercing through his limb. 

Scout made the greatest effort to get to cover, a hand over the opened wound and blurriness getting to his sight, the sounds of explosions and fire getting distant as he felt his life going out of him. Medic got later to the bridge, taking cover next to Scout as Soldier and Heavy were already doing the work on the RED yard and Sniper covered them from behind; he saw Scout struggling and knew he needed the most instant solution, one that solved the problem now and could make possible healing later. 

He took out of his medkit a needle with a blue liquid inside, even if he knew how much Scout despised needles, it was the fastest way to solve this: he took Scout’s hand from the wound, and nailed the needle right on it, taking a groan from the offense mercenary as the liquid ran over inside of him. 

Scout felt pain, for a short time, before feeling a burst of energy and his heart beating at all speed, all the wounds in him disappeared and felt the blood rushing through his body. He looked at Medic, who just nodded at him and recharged his shotgun, and they both got to run again. 

They went at the middle entrance of the bridge, finding the flames of the enemy Pyro against them, retreating to the entrance and to their yard. They slid through the bridge and sped up at the limit their bodies could take it, Medic opened the door for them and Scout got inside first, continuing their way at an unusual speed and feeling safe inside their own side of Well, he heard Medic right behind him and went separate ways to take care of both flanks of the hall to the flag room and control point. 

When Scout turned, he saw the RED Medic, aiming at him and about to shoot. RED Medic shot at him, but the shot was going… rarely slow, he crouched and slid down, not even letting the enemy turn his head down to him before it was blown up by his last slugs and saw the RED fall to the ground as a dead corpse. 

Scout stood up in the same motion and continued running the bridge, Medic just behind him and both felt the capture point on their feet. 

— GRENADE! — Medic yelled, Scout looked behind and saw the doctor emptying the nailgun magazine on the RED Spy at the same time a concussion grenade fell between both of them. The impact pushed both inside the control point, crashing to the wall and the hit making them faint…

“Good capture! The BLU team wins!” 

—

A few minutes passed, Scout started to open his eyes first, whatever stuff Medic injected to him made him not only wake up but endure the dizziness and pain, some wounds still opened and the recent concussion on his head were hurting him and barely allowing him to move or even keeping his eyes open without blurriness, his head felt like it was about to explode and his body was too weak to even hold himself. He took some time to recover his sight, groaning and blinking before facing to the metal surface in front of him with the Builder’s League logo on it, their guns spread over the control point room and on top of it was Medic’s medkit. 

Scout looked at it, he could probably use it to recover faster or stop the pain momentarily before getting to the base, it was just pressing some buttons to get the heal started. He crawled to it, each movement felt like a nail piercing against his flesh, the headache growing and the tiredness hitting him. As soon as he placed a hand on the medical equipment he fell to the ground again, he couldn't do it anymore, he would take out whatever that blue liquid was that kept him awake and torturing like this. 

The buttons were pressed, he heard it before the healing sounds started and felt his body recovering, the headache going and some of the minor wounds closing. He turned his head back towards the medkit, seeing Medic’s hand on top of it pressing the button, his gaze followed the hand, to the arm and finally meeting Medic’s eyes which looked as tired and in pain as him. 

Medic then looked at Scout as he supported himself on his arms, lifting his head and taking a time to breathe, Scout did the same besides him and both stayed a moment recovering. They barely remembered the battle, some details coming in the shape of flashbacks while they processed what actually happened, but if something was sure: Their backs were in good condition now and during the battle, and all thanks to the mercenary next to them who could follow their pace and made sure they made it through alive. 

Both raised their hands in an attempt to high-five each other, looking at their sides and seeing the same intention on the other, Scout chuckled as he clasped hands with Medic and continued smiling after it. They both did a great job out there, and judging by the noise from the outside it was clear the mission ended, and was way clear when the door in front of them opened. Heavy was in there, with a tired and concerned look, compared to the expecting and worried ones from Soldier and Sniper to their sides. 

— You two ‘re alright? — Heavy asked while holding the door open, to keep it from shutting down after it was damaged by the previous explosive. His deep and raspy voice in a concerned tone that neither of them had heard before, Heavy felt some responsibility for their teammates' current state. — What exactly happened? I just heard the announcement while Ross and I held the REDs on the other side — 

Scout chuckled a moment, looking down and slowly sitting, with one knee drawn up in front of him which he used to support his arm and his head. Medic also tried to sit and ended up leaning against the wall, raising a thumbs-up at Heavy before tilting his head and placing it on the wall behind. 

— I saw what you did back there, what a comeback you pulled out — Sniper got inside the control point room, extended his hand at Medic and pulled him up to get him on his feet. Medic leaned on Sniper’s shoulder, the sudden movement made him dizzy and some of the wounds still open weren’t making it easier. Sniper put Medic’s arm over his shoulders and held him around his torso. — It's ok doc, it's over, you two will have time to recover —

— They look good Vik, they just need to rest, they really carried us today — Soldier got closer to Scout, he easily pulled him up and made the same as Sniper, supporting Scout against his side and helping him to start walking on his own again. — You should work together more often, even if you end up this screwed —

— Not too screwed, Doc really knows how to cover you — Scout turned his head to Medic, throwing a short laugh and going out of the control point. Medic hit his arm weakly, at the same time he shook his head, smiling beneath his mask as he looked at Scout. 

— Let’s head to the base, you did good guys — Heavy put a hand on the backs of both Scout and Medic, they felt the bigger hands on them and tilted a moment after it, not used to the sudden strength over them. The five mercenaries started heading outside the control point and going to gather with the rest. 

They got past the bridge and in direction to the respawn room, to reunite with the rest of the team before they went to the bas e. The win was theirs, Well was theirs. What would the BLU mercs do without their runners? 

Chapter Text

— What is it, Doc? — Scout got closer to Medic, they were in the spawn room, about to start a mission and all of them were preparing for it. Scout looked at Medic’s hands, reaching behind his medkit and taking out an ampule with a greenish and glowing liquid on it, which he then offered it to Scout. 

Medic looked at Scout taking the ampule, a confused look on his face and turning the glass container around to see what it was. Medic gestured at Scout, simulating drinking something and then pointing to the liquid. Scout raised an eyebrow in response, should he drink it? 

— Do you trust me? — Medic said looking at him, Scout nodded and broke the glass point of the container, drinking it completely. A sour yet sweet flavor ran down his throat, not bad at all. 

— What is it? It’s good — Scout swallowed again, looking again at the empty ampule on his hand and then at Medic, who put a finger over his mouth, smirking behind his mask. Scout felt a rush of energy all over his body, his heart beating faster than normal and an uncontrollable excitement that made him move faster, he felt ready to go running at any moment outside the room and to the battlefield, no one could stop him now. 

— You’ll see, let’s go — Medic said, and then the door of the respawn room opened in front of them. The rest of their teammates went outside and to their positions, and even if Scout wanted to run as fast as he could with that burst of energy on him, he waited for Medic to go first. Medic looked at him, confused why Scout didn't go ahead. 

— We go, together — Scout took out his crowbar, punching Medic's arm weakly and making small jumps on his tiptoes. Medic nodded at him, taking out his shotgun and started running after Scout, who was unstoppable and faster with that special tonic he had developed in his lab for him. And with it, both got out onto the battlefield, ready to complete their mission, kill the enemy and be the first ones over that capture point.