Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Misha was not stupid.

No matter what his new colleagues whispered about him, or laughed about behind his back-- Misha knew he was far from stupid. The man considered himself exceptionally intelligent in fact, and he had his PhD in Russian Literature. Back in Russia he would even make money by selling poems he would compose.

However, Misha knew none of this would change his new colleagues' minds, just because of the fact he wasn't fluent in English. Mikhail had only started studying the language after the first letter arrived that alerted him he would soon be drafted to be the Heavy Weapons Specialist in the US, so his studies had only begun very recently- and abruptly.

Misha stood alone against one of the commonplace walls observing the “team” that had gathered in the room. 

The Spy was a tall, lanky man wearing a red pinstripe suit and puffing on a cigarette while conversing (in a very snarky tone) with the shorter Soldier who was wearing a helmet, (or bucket?) on his head. The man was yelling about America- screaming about all sorts of slop. Misha did not like the Soldier, he was a loud and obnoxious baby man. 

The Scout was sat on the couch, fiddling with his hands and drinking a soda that he clearly did not need. The lanky boy was filled to the brim with energy- he always ran amuck in the base. He was a little baby man too. Another man sat parallel from the Scout- he looked like he was drifting off. Mikhail had not formally met him. The shortest man was a Texan, which led Misha not to want to talk to him at all; he would put it off for as long as possible, he knew very well what Soldier thought of him-- and he wasn't ready for any more American hatred.

 Misha was glad he was not having to share a room with any of these people, his door was marked with his symbol along with a red cross (which he assumed was the Medics.) He hoped the final few team members was kinder to him, and gave him a chance to prove himself.

They had all met a few days ago but were called to meet their final few teammates; the Pyro, Sniper, Demolitions Man, and the Medic. The first hour within meeting the other men, he was yelled at and had insults thrown at him by the baby man Soldier.

He had called him a communist, russian scum- and other such insults. Misha had to restrain himself from wringing the man's neck. The Scout was annoying, speaking too quickly for him to formulate a proper response. But unlike the other two, the Spy was a cold sort of mean. He was quiet, but he still hurt Misha with his words and pointed questions; mostly about Misha’s weight and size.

 The Frenchman was speaking English as a second language but he was much more fluent with his dialect. Misha was not, speaking slowly and with short sentences. He was not nearly as clear as the Spy. Misha frowned at that thought. He wanted to get better.

Soon, Miss Pauling strode into the room- clipboard in hand. The woman had been the one to pick him up at the Airport. Mikhail found her presence much more manageable than his team. The woman was quiet, but spoke clearly. Now, she looked stressed. (She always did.) Upon noticing her, the Scout sat up straighter and put his soda down; smiling goofily at her. She glanced at him and somehow managed to look even more stressed. Misha felt bad for her.

"Er.. Hi guys. So SO sorry for the wait.. there was- some issues regarding the flights. They all made it alive though! Ahah-" She laughed awkwardly and the Spy scowled at her

"So.. should be here after they put some stuff in their rooms.. Oh! Look, here comes the Pyro!"

She smiled as the short.. person (?) came into the room, standing next to her. They were already in uniform, which included a gas mask- that seemingly limited their ability to speak clearly. Perfect.
"Mmrrph mmrr mhrr!" The Pyro mumbled. Misha glanced around the room to see if anyone had understood what they said. Miss Pauling widened her eyes, staring at them- Misha could almost see her eyebags get deeper and her hair sprout grays. The Pyro then waved in a way that reminded Misha of his baby sister. Ну зашибись теперь.. 

"Uhm. Okay.. Welcome Pyro! Oh, here's Sniper and Demo!" Miss Pauling said, gesturing the two into the room. 

The Sniper was another lanky man, wearing a cowboy hat and yellow aviator glasses. The Demoman was a black man, and was wearing an eyepatch. Pretty tall, but still dwarfed by Misha's height.

"Hello.. Ehm. I'm Mundy.. only my parents call me that though. I guess just call me Sniper or something. Don't really mind." The Sniper spoke awkwardly and nudged the man beside him to speak, who swayed a bit and started talking in a thick Scottish accent.

"Oh- uh. 'ello men. I am the Demoman. Ehh.. I- ehh.. Hope w--"

 Misha didn't hear the rest, because the final man walked into the room. He also stood beside Miss Pauling nervously and glanced around the room. He was tall. He had dark hair that was peppered slightly with grey... the type of hair Misha wished he had. He met Misha's gaze and looked like he wanted to throw up.

Chapter Text

Whenever Ludwig received the letter telling him he would travel abroad to join a dangerous, specialized, and elite mercenary group as a medic- he was overjoyed.

He loved working with medicine and experimenting. Spending his next few years being able to experiment on people, in battle? He was over the moon.

During the few months after the letter, the doctor brushed up on some English studies.. but focused mostly on tediously packing his whole collection of medical tools and records. He took up one whole suitcase with a full skeleton, opting for that among others than his English Books. 

Now, standing in the common-room, surrounded by English-speaking men.. he had wished he would have studied more.

He scanned the room, trying to appear confident. But as soon as he saw the hulking giant standing against the wall, glaring at him; He knew his facade wouldn't last. The other men appeared like babies compared to the man. He looked away quickly and swallowed nervously.

The room became silent as the Demoman finished his long-winded introductory speech. All eyes turned to him, and the doctor began to speak;

"Ah.. Hello. I am your Medic. My name is Doctor H. Ludvig, but I vould.. Er- ...prefer if you would just call me by Medic. I am excited to work with you." He finished nervously.

He knew his German accent was strong, but he hoped it wasn't horrible. Unfortunately, his English wasn't the best when he was nervous. And nervous was an understatement right now. That of course mixed with the Jetlag of spending many, MANY hours on the plane.

A man sitting at the table stood up and approached him. He was wearing a helmet and was slightly shorter than himself.

"So.. let me get this straight. We have a Nazi.. and a COMMIE... on our team. THIS IS AN AMERICAN TEAM!" The man yelled "IN THIS FREE COUNTRY.. you are NOT welcome, I will--" " Excuse me?!"

Ludwig found himself pausing, all nervousness melting into anger;

"That is extremely unprofessional and a HORRIBLE false claim to make against someone.. I have offered you my service.. and ve are on the same TEAM?.. I shall have to experiment on your brain and make sure it is not two times too small because right now it vould seem it is! Maybe more! I am NOT a Nazi. And I do not owe you my life story. "

The man put his finger up, ready to start again- but was stopped by Miss Pauling.

Ludwig was already fed up, he had gotten this before and it made him sick to his stomach, who did this man think he was?

"I vill not stand here and be called horrible names." He said plainly to Miss Pauling, who looked like she was about to cry-

"Soldier, PLEASE do not say things like that. We have talked about this- You do not know where Medic.. And- and Heavy are from. Or who they are." she gestured to the giant, who still looked angry.

The "Soldier" saluted her, said "Yes, Miss Pauling." but still scowled as he sat down. Ludwig turned and left the room. His Jetlag was getting worse, and he didn't feel like yelling anymore.

He needed to blow off steam.

He needed his birds.

Down the hall to the left, he found his room. There were two symbols on the door, one of an unfamiliar red fist and one of his own red cross. He would have to change rooms if his roommate was the Soldier, or maybe just sleep in his new office. He opened the door, and shut it behind him.

It was a decently sized room for one person, but since it was for two it was smaller than desirable. There were two beds in the room, and a small table in one of the corners by the door. He sat on one of the beds, and uncovered his birdcage he had placed on the bed. He opened the cage and his doves flew out, taking shelter in the rafters, and on the headboard of the bed. One of his doves, Archimedes, flew to his hand and perched there. Ludwig cooed lovingly at the bird.

"Oh Archimedes.. I am saw-ry you were covered for so long. Du bist jetzt zu Hause.. Or, I hope this will become home. Ve will see, Ja?" The doctor said to him, stroking the doves feathers. Archimedes cooed back at him, staring at him with beady, black eyes.

Both his and Archimedes' heads shot up as someone knocked on the door.. "Come in!" Ludwig warily said, as he held Archimedes closer. He wasn't ready to yell again.

Du bist jetzt zu Hause - you are home now

Ja - yes or yeah

Chapter Text

Misha entered the room, two plates of food in hand. He had made the doctor a sandvich, which was his favourite food since traveling to America. The Medic was sitting on one of the beds, looking at him with narrowed eyes. He looked nervous. Misha shut the door behind him, and turned back to speak to the doctor. He had been thinking of what to say;

"Hello. I am Mikhail, but I prefer to be called Misha. I am heavy weapons guy. I am your roommate. I.. eh, heard you speak and I want to say.. I am sorry what Soldier said and I want to say sorry.. He does the same to Misha. Hurt my feelings, calling me communist." He frowned. 

And then he looked heard.. Bird noises? He looked around the room and noticed all of the little white birds. One had even come close to investigate the plates of food. The Medic scoffed and shooed the bird away. 

"Oh, I am sawry about my birds. I hope it is okay for them to stay here. They prefer to be with me." He half-smiled at Misha, "Thank you, Mishka-- oh Misha. Not Mishka. My mistake- eheh. I appreciate your kindness." 

Misha smiled at him and extended one of the sandviches to the Medic. "I made Medic dinner. Sorry it is not very fancy..But: I do not mind your leetle birds, I can make more sandviches for them too?"  The Medic laughed and took the sandvich. 

"You are very nice, danke Misha. My birds are well fed I promise. Would you like to feed them?"  Misha glanced at the Medic and back at his sandvich nervously "Oh no, not with that. I have some bird-seed for them. They vill eat from your hand if you'd like." 

Misha nodded and put his plate down, holding out his hand as the Medic poured some bird seed into his palm. The little bird on Medics' shoulder hopped down onto Misha's hand and began pecking at the food, and others started to flutter down and join him. Misha glanced back to Medic and saw the man was smiling, this time for real. He did not look nervous anymore. Misha was glad, he didn't want to scare off his one chance at a friend here. 

"I have never held birds before. I like them. Very sweet." Misha said softly, so he wouldn't scare the few birds that remained on his hand. The others had flown to their respective places, but the same one as before was being coddled by the Medic. The doctor hummed in agreement. 

…

"Is that leetle bird Medics favourite?" Misha asked politely, trying to make conversation. He found comfort talking to the man, he liked his accent. He also liked talking to someone who was also not as fluent as everyone else, it gave him some comfort in a strange way.

"Oh yes, this is Archimedes. He is the one that connected with me the most. I actually, eheh, stole them.. from wedding. Not on purpose, but now I am glad I did. They do make very good friends." 

Misha widened his eyes, "You.. stole leetle birds?"

"Oh yes. I vanted a van.. to getaway from some eh.. sticky situation. My doves were an.. extra bonus.. How do you say dove in Russian?" The Medic suddenly asked curiously

"Well, there is one word for doves and pigeons. It is 'голубь'. But, you could say 'голубушка' or.. 'голубчик' as a.. eh.. love nickname. Make sense?" Misha responded 

"Oh, Ja. Fascinating.." He smiled again at Misha. 

...

"It is funny," Misha said absentmindedly "right before I left, I had a dream. About doves. I started to write a poem based on the same dream. Strange timing, yes?"  he watched as Archimedes flew up and huddled close to one of the other doves, very sweet.

The Doctor smiled. "You'll have to show me some time. I would listen right now, but I am getting very tired. The ehm.. jetlag, ja?" 

Misha nodded and stood up, taking the plates to the little table in their room. He was too focused on the little birds, he hadn't noticed that the doctor had eaten most everything. He was very glad. 

"Of course Doktor. I hope you sleep well." He watched as Medic unbuttoned his uniform, and hung it where it wouldn't get wrinkled. He realized he was staring only after the man had removed his socks and shoes, leaving him solely in his boxers. He was more muscular than the weapons specialist thought, and he h--- Misha quickly looked away, shooing away the thoughts. Not appropriate to stare. Very rude. 

голубь - pigeon or dove  

голубушка - little dove (nickname) 

голубчик - little dove masc ver. (nickname)

ja - yes or yeah

danke - thank you

Chapter Text

When Ludwig woke up he immediately counted his doves. He did this every morning, and did not feel completed without making sure everyone was safe and well. He might have committed a few cases of Medical Malpractice but he wasn't a monster. He loved those birds. After he counted the last dove he looked across the small room to his new roommate who was still asleep. He looked very comfortable but, was.. holding a Minigun.. as if the weapon was a Teddybär.

“Ich glaube nicht, dass das die schlimmste Macke ist.. die man haben kann..” he mumbled to himself quietly, after all he much preferred the giant over that Soldier. He did not want to think about that today, it was a big day. Heavy made a grumbling noise and sat up. 

“Good morning, Herr Heavy.” Ludwig said, standing up and stretching. 

“.. Morning Doktor..”

Archimedes cocked his head at Heavy, who was starting to stretch, joints cracking worryingly obnoxiously with every movement. Ludwig cringed at this and frowned at Heavy as he stood up to join the other man. 

“Is something matter, Doctor?”

Ludwig started gathering clean clothes to put on, but stopped to respond: 

“Vell maybe, Herr Heavy. Does it hurt when you stand? Like your knees and ehmm- ankles, ja?” 

Misha had folded his clothes neatly at the end of the bed, and stripped his white tank top off, seeming deep in thought. The man really was a giant.. Ludwig could see each of his back and arm muscles rippling beneath his skin.. (was his massive size the result of scientific studies? all natural? He really had huge arms. He had terrific muscles.. Ludwig almost hoped the man would hurt himself, it would be fascinating to experimen—-) 

“Well. I guess they always do. I am getting older, да?.. But my heart— seems to hurt more.” Heavy responded, cutting off the Doctor's train of thought- “At first I thought it was Heavy missing family." He sighed; "I spend much time with them. I protect them. But.. now, it seems like it might be different from.. emotion pain. Make sense?” He asked, pulling on his shirt. Ludwig looked at him with concern, buttoning his own vest up. 

“Oh mein, yes. That sounds very painful.. I am sure your family misses you too, Misha. I am sawry you are so far apart now. Vould you come in for examination today? Around.. lets say.. 2:30, Ja? I vant to check on your joints and heart.” 

Misha nodded. “I will be there.” He turned to walk out the door, stopping and looking back at the Medic- “Is Doktor coming to breakfast?” 

Ludwig shook his head, “Nein. I have lots to do.” He smiled and snapped on his red gloves. Covering his arms and wrists with his sleeves and stuffing it into the gloves. Heavy nodded slowly and continued out the door, “I will see you soon, Doktor!” He called back

Ludwig called to Archimedes, and the bird perched on his shoulder. He poured a birdseed packet onto one of the discarded plates from the previous night, and the other birds surrounded it and began to eat.

Archimedes cooed a little on his shoulder.

“I vill feed you in my office, Archimedes. Do not worry. You vill not go hungry.” He quietly spoke to the bird and stroked his feathers.

Ludwig began the walk to his office. It was time to unpack all of his medical possessions, and he couldn’t wait to reunite with them. (Even though it had only been a few days. He was very attached to his medical documents and tools. He knew it was a little weird, but certainly not as weird as cuddling with a Minigun… right?)

да - yes

herr - mr.

mein - my

Ich glaube nicht, dass das die schlimmste Macke ist.. die man haben kann - i guess that's not the worst little quirk you can have (not 100% direct translation but that's what i was going for, да? )

Chapter Text

2:16 pm

Misha was hoping the Doktor would come to the common room to eat lunch. He wanted the doctor to eat, but also have someone to sit with that wasn’t a total Сволочь to him. After waiting for most of the rest of the mercenaries to leave the kitchen, he entered. The kitchen had a smell, like something that was burnt was lingering in the area. The only other person was the Spy, who was sat at the kitchen table. He was still smoking, and he nodded at Misha as he entered the room. 

“Hello, Mr. Heavy.” he said nonchalantly 

“Hello.” 

“Scout and the Pyro have cooked some.. обед .. which is in the fridge. It is slightly charred.”

Misha tried to suppress his shock at the Frenchman speaking Russian, even if it was just a little.

“Do.. you speak Russian?” He asked, trying to sound casual as the other man;

“Да.. a little.. I speak many languages but yours is one I have yet to master. But, I spent a few months in Moscow working at my old jobs..” He smiled smugly

“Ah.” Heavy said, turning to the kitchen. He wanted the conversation to end, it was almost time for his appointment and didn't want to be held up by the man.

He opened the fridge and pulled out the leftovers of what the Scout and Pyro had cooked. “Charred” was an understatement, he thought. The food looked almost inedible, but he figured it would be more appropriate then bringing yet another sandvich for the doctor. And it was probably healthier for him to eat other things. He separated two plates of the food, and tried a little bite of his. It seemed like a type of Goulash, although with less broth. The noodles were seared and the meat was dry. He sighed, maybe he would do the cooking from then on. Misha often helped with cooking back at his home. He took the two plates and started off in the direction of the Medics lab, but paused as the Spy started speaking again;

“Heavy, I am looking forward to working with you on ze battlefield in a few days. I apologize for any hatred you feel towards me, and I apologize for Soldier’s behavior. He is brainless. I hope your appointment goes well.” The man smiled at him, which resembled how a dog would bare its teeth before lunging. He did not have a friendly smile. 

Misha did not say anything, but just nodded. He did not know how the Spy figured out that he had an appointment but, he didn’t feel like thinking about it anymore. The man made him wildly uncomfortable. He turned back and continued down the hallway.

2:16 pm - Medic POV

Ludwig had already unpacked a lot of his luggage in the last few hours, leaving only three more boxes. He had set up a lab that felt more like what he was used to, and started laying out his tools for Misha's examination. Archimedes was on his desk, preening on some of his blueprints. 

"Archimedes," the Doctor called, walking over to the bird- "Please do not get your feathers on my entwurf.. you are making zhem filthy." He shooed the dove off of the paper and held it up. Someone suddenly knocked on the door, causing Archimedes to shoot up to the door cooing like a guard.. bird.

"Ah, come in!" Ludwig yelled, still observing his design. Expecting Heavy arriving early, it was slightly alarming to see it was the Engineer with the Pyro following close behind. Archimedes launched himself at them, pecking at their faces aggressively. 

"Woah Doc'.. some guard dog you got." Engineer chuckled, gently swatting Archimedes from his face. Pyro laughed and clapped excitedly, offering their hand out to the dove who landed cautiously on their index finger. 

"Ah, yes I am saw-ry. He is very protective- eheh." The Medic responded, laying the blueprint back on the desk. Engineer approached him smiling and stuck his hand out; 

"I know we technically met yesterday.. but I figured me and Pyro would come say hi to you. Officially. I'm the Engineer, but I'd prefer if y'all call me Engi. The other folks, mostly Solider, said some real awful things to you and that Heavy. I want you to know that what they said does not align with me at all. I am happy to be on the team with you both. Regardless of where you are from." He said kindly, with a moderate southern accent

Ludwig took his hand and shook it firmly, noting that it was some type of metal prosthetic. It looked very well crafted. 

"Danke, my friend. I appreciate the kindness. I am very grateful that there are good people on this team. Yes, Solider made us feel.. rather unwelcome." he said lightly, letting go of the mans hand.

"Right, of course Doc. And-- oh." Engi paused, as Pyro came over and brandished a folded up paper from their pocket. "Almost forgot, Pyro made you a drawing they wanted to give ya."  Ludwig took the paper and unfolded it, and it was a crayon drawing of the Solider covered in a rainbow coloured fire. Medic was drawn high-fiving Pyro. There also seemed to be a einhörner and some balloons featured.. the Pyro looked at Medic- tilting their head expectedly, 

"Hudda huhh?" They mumbled in a questioning tone;

"Oh yes, oh my! This is wunderbar. Danke Pyro! I love it! I vill hang it up right here.. behind my desk." Ludwig responded, taking his best guess on what they had said.

He grabbed a spare pin and stuck the portrait onto the cabinet. Pyro clapped again and started looking for Archimedes again, who was hiding on a stretcher across the office. Once they were far enough away Engi started talking, this time more hushed;

"Yeah, they were real eager to make it for you. They told me they felt bad Solider was treatin' you mean.. I uh- Actually, I don't really approve of them being here. I found some of their records an' files since being roomed up with them and they are on a ton of medication for Schizophrenia and stuff like that. Now, I don't know much about- that stuff- but it does kinda seems like they can't tell- or just don't know- that they're hurting people and are getting paid to. I mean- I have had to extinguish Scout twice already.." 

"Oh my. Yes. I'll be doing team-evaluations soon, and will be reviewing everyone's files- we can do a check-up on them. That does sounds incredibly dangerous, danke for telling me. I vill keep an extra eye on them if that would offer you some peace of your mind." 

"Thanks Doc. It would, and- oh-.. say, what's this here blueprint for? Not to snoop or anything." Engi responded, changing the subject quickly as Pyro came close again. This time having caught Archimedes at one of the tables in the lab, sitting down cross-legged to watch the dove preen.

"Ohoh- Ah no, you are not snooping. This is vhat I call the 'Medi-Gun' although it it still a concept. It would provide a quick and.. mostly-painless way to heal up the team quick in battle. It vould be much more efficent then running with bandages and painkillers. And- also.. it has room for another feature that I call "Überdrive".. making the other person.. bulletproof." He said excitedly, he smoothed his hair and continued, he hoped his English was good enough to accurately describe his invention; "I just need to build it vhich I have been putting off. I am a man of science, just-- not in the building sort of way."

He watched as the Engineer held up the blueprint, looking almost as excited as him.

"Oh man 'Doc! You should have talked to me sooner!  I can build this for you! The blueprint is incredibly detailed, and, wow. This is a great design." He pointed out the back part of the machine, "This would take me longer than the gun itself based on the complexity of the inside. Of course, it might be a little different from the blueprint- they didn't provide me with a whole lotta material but.. I'd say give me three days or so  and I can have this back to you!" He grinned,

Ludwig felt shocked at the mans offer, this man was very different from what he expected. Very kind.

"Oh my, that would be wunderbar Enginee-- Engi. You, you dont have to if you have other machines to build--"

But was cut off by another knock on the door, "Oh, this must be Mishka- er.. Herr Heavy. One moment mein friend."

He walked over to the door and opened it, this time it was the Weapons Specialist. He was holding two plates of.. food-- and was smiling at the doctor, but his features darkened upon seeing the other two in the room. 

Heavy POV

Misha's good mood was cut off as he saw the Engineer and the Pyro inside the doctor's office. He looked back down at the Medic who looked very cheerful, 

"Ah, hello Misha! You're right on time." and started back into the room, walking towards the desk in the middle. The Engineer smiled at Heavy briefly but turned back to the large paper he was holding. The Pyro just waved- and turned back to watching Archimedes preen himself.

"Is Heavy.. interrupting something?" He grumbled, wary of the two others

Ludwig smiled at him "Oh no, Engi and I were just discussing some machine plans!" Engi? Heavy frowned slightly, and put the two plates down on a clear spot on the desk. 

"I brought Doktor some lunch. Was hoping I'd see you come out from your lab for lunch, but did not."

Ludwig looked surprised; 

"Oh I am sawry Misha. I lost track of time, I will make sure to meet you for lunch tomorrow!"

Misha just nodded.

Engineer rolled up the paper he was holding, and walked over to the desk extending his hand to Misha. 

"Hey, I don't think we've met formally. I'm the Engineer of course, but uh- you can call me Engi if you'd like. Pyro and I were just about to head out, but I'm glad I caught ya." Misha looked down at the cheerful little man and shook his hand a little rougher than intended- 

"Yes. Nice to meet you, call me Heavy." The Engineer smiled warmly and dropped the handshake, turning back to the Medic.

"I'll have this completed to you in let's say.. three, four days Doc. And seriously no worries, I'd love to build this for ya." The doctor smiled and thanked him profusely.

"Alright c'mon now Pyro. Lets go see where that Scout ran off to." Pyro stood up, and stroked Archimedes head one last time before waving at the Doctor and Heavy. The two exited the room, with Pyro mumbling something as they left.

The Medic turned to Heavy and frowned, "Misha, you seem upset. Vhat is wrong?"

Misha turned back to the doctor and cleared his throat; "Scared of that Engineer. Seems like-- ehm. Very American cowboy-like. You understand?" 

"Ja. I understand. He was nicer than I thought, he offered to build my own machine for me. I vas worried it would be not detailed enough but he seemed very-- eheh.. cheerful? I don't know the right word.. determined, maybe. ANYVAY. Thank you for the food. And for arriving on time!" He smiled, with a glint in his eye "Are you ready for your checkup?" 

Misha nodded. The doctor led him over to a medical table and instructed him to sit, causing a noise that indicated that perhaps the table wasn't intended for someone his size- however the Medic didn't mention it, and grabbed a clipboard and pencil. 

The exam was much like the ones he used to get back home, with the doctor checking his reflexes and listening to his heart through his shirt. Misha was fascinated watching the medic work, he looked right at home doing the examination with the same almost maniacal-glint in his eye. This didn't make him seem scary though- it made Misha feel safer in a way. He trusted the older man, he looked like he knew what he doing. After the man had measured his arms, legs and weight- the Medic took a metal stethoscope and put it under Heavy's shirt, which made him shiver. The Doctors hand was warm, though.

"This vill let me hear your heart better. Deep breath in--" Misha inhaled through his nose. The Medic was very close to him in these moments, and he could smell the Doctors cologne. The pair made eye-contact, as Medic counted in his head- smiling sweetly at the other.

 "Breathe out."

A few more repeats of the breathing sets and he slipped the stethoscope out from beneath his shirt. 

"Vell. It is vhat I expected. Your heart seems overworked to say, almost-- too small for your body's mass." Heavy frowned, "OH, not in a bad way mein friend. Actually, quite the opposite. Your mass is very impressive.. eheh." He said, his ears flushing pink- looking mortified. "Not- not in a weird manner. I realize that did.. eh.. come out weird." He finished lamely.

Misha laughed a loud, boisterous laugh- the Doctor looked away, and scoffed- obviously embarrassed.  

"Oh don't turn around, I am sorry for laughing.. it was just- funny way of saying." said Misha, still chuckling

"Vell, anyvay..." The other turned back around and adjusted his glasses; "I would like to give you a new heart. It vould be healthy for you in battle. Have you had surgery before?"

This shut Heavy up very quick. He looked nervous now.

"..Nyet. Not like.. major. Had stitching before." 

"Vell, whenever my Medigun is completed in a few days.. I vill give you a bigger, more powerful heart. It will allow you to do more, and become less tired easily." Misha nodded. He trusted the doctor. It probably wasn't big deal.

"Is.. examination done?" He asked

"Ja. I am thinking I will call it a night." Medic said. Heavy looked at the clock and realized more than a few hours had pasted, and it was around dinnertime. 

Misha nodded but said, "Yes. Me too, but we will go eat dinner. I do not want to finish that horrible-... lunch food." 

"Don't be so mean to yourself, Misha. I am sure the lunch you made.. it vould taste.. great." He smirked smugly.

Misha's jaw dropped, and he pulled an incredibly offended face;

"Heavy did NOT. Cook that. I can do so much more better than that, you see soon. Misha will cook dinner for us." He got off the table with another dangerous creaking noise, and led the doctor out of the room- who was laughing;

"Ja, Misha. I am messing with you, I don't doubt your cooking is delicious- even just the Sandvich you made was sehr güt." He paused to allow Archimedes to flutter onto his shoulder. Heavy stroked the little birds head before the two continued to set off down towards the kitchen.

Extra;

Misha served the Doctor a hot bowl of proper dinner. He had made a simple stew with the limited ingredients that were left in the fridge. It wasn't very fancy, but it looked a hell of a lot better than what Pyro and Scout had made- (in his, and, everyone else's opinion.)

"Danke Misha, this is very güt.. wow! It also looks great. Much better than the lunch-food." The doctor said, trying it.

Heavy smiled and sat down beside him with a serving for himself. He had put  a garnish of green onion on the Doctors to make it look more impressive, and he was happy that the Medic liked it. 
The smell of non-burnt eventually lured the Spy and the Engineer into the kitchen. There was enough room for everyone at the table, but only the Engineer sat with the other two. The Spy was gone after helping himself, and Heavy was kind of glad the Frenchman didn't stick around.

The dinner went well. Heavy mostly listened to the two discuss about plans for future machines.. and weapons. Too much science talk for him, but Engineer had asked him a few questions to try to include the other, which Misha appreciated. Eventually they both headed off to their shared room, waving goodbye to the Engineer.

Today was a good day.

One of his best since arriving.

Mikhail was feeling good. 

обед - lunch

дa - yes

entwurf - design / blueprint

sehr gut - very good

Chapter Text

That night Ludwig woke up in a cold sweat. He sprung up from his bed, frantically looking around his room. He had had another nightmare. Seeing only his sleeping roommate and no one else, he breathed a sigh of relief. He turned back but winced as he felt a sharp pain in his neck, this made him feel old. As he started to recall some of his dream he turned to look at his roommate.

He wondered if the man would hate him, if he ever found out that he was a homosexual- he wondered if he would kick him out, if he would look at him with the same disgust as his father had when he found out he had slept with another man, or even if Misha would hit him. The other man would be able to break his arm like a pencil.. Ludwig shivered and looked away, he had struggled with nightmares for years and thinking about his own sexuality made him feel sick. What a disappointment he was, to himself, to his former wife, to his family. His dreams were always a reoccurring memory, his dad kicking him out-- kicking open the front door, grabbing Ludwig by the collar;

"Du wirst hier nie willkommen sein," his Father had hissed. His eyes were filled with such rage, and disappointment. He had only been 17 at the time, but a few years after working for a emergency clinic he was forced to flee the country. His family was Jewish, and he was lucky to get out of Germany but he wasn't sure if his family was safe. They had cut off contact with him completely. He w---

Ludwig smoothed his hair and cut off his own thoughts. He would never get back to sleep thinking about things like this. He looked up and counted his doves, trying to reassure himself;

"Eins, zwei, drei, vier, fünf, sechs, sieben, acht-- and.. Hallo Archimedes." the Doctor said softly. Archimedes cooed and blinked at him, Ludwig made a shush motion and pointed toward Heavy; who was snoring loudly and still clinging onto that mini-gun. He recalled the man saying something about the gun having a name, but he couldn't remember at this moment. He sighed and laid back down, wincing slightly at the pain in his neck.

He closed his eyes, trying to recall what the man had told him about his gun.

...

Sasha. Sasha was the guns name. Just as he remembered, he fell asleep once more.

Archimedes fluttered down to him, after he had fallen asleep. The dove nestled into the crook of his shoulder, attempting to comfort the man as best as the little bird could.

The next morning Ludwig woke up to someone gently shaking him. He didn't want to open his eyes, he was very tired. 

"Nein.. just-... mm, few more minutes. Danke." He mumbled, throwing one of his arms over his eyes to block out the sunlight (rather dramatically). His hand made contact with something feathery which caused the object to coo loudly and shoot into the air.

"Oh. Nyet Doktor. I am sorry.. I wanted you to sleep more but- it is late and I don't want you to get into any trouble. It is already 11. I made you breakfast." 

Ludwig removed his arm from over his eyes, and reached for the glasses on his nightstand. Putting them on he looked up at the man who woke him up. The sunlight behind him made him look like he had a halo, and he looked like an angelic presence. Ludwig blinked up at him and frowned, he didn't feel like getting up yet. 

Heavy smiled at him and offered his hand out, to pull him up. Archimedes had landed on his shoulder after the doctor had smacked him (accidentally) and was looking disdainful towards Ludwig.

Ludwig took his hand and Misha effortlessly pulled him up. 

"I think, your leetle bird mad at you. Doktor hit him a bit when waking up." Ludwig smiled at him and got out of bed. He stretched and felt the same pain in his neck as last night. He winced and the other looked concerned, staring at him with worried eyes;

"Ah.. I- pulled a must have pulled a muscle last night. I probably vill.. get shower. Hot water vill help with pain." He nodded, pulling on a company provided T-Shirt. 

"Was Doktor awake to hear about breakfast?" Misha asked, gesturing over to the little table that now had been cleaned and had a bowl of oatmeal- garnished with a few pieces of fruit.

"Oh! Danke mein friend I must've not heard the first time. Thank you very much! It looks good as always, Misha." Ludwig smiled at the man, who smiled back proudly;

"I am glad you like it. Is okay if I stay while Doktor eats, to be company?" He asked 

"Ja! Of course. I vould love the company, Heavy." he responded, sitting in one of the chairs at the table. The oatmeal was very good, it tasted as good as it looked- the doctor was surprised the man could conjure up a breakfast like this with such limited ingredients. The other man sat across from him and watched him eat for a bit..

"I also fed your doves. They were being noisy, and I was glad it did not wake you up. You look very tired, did you not sleep well?" 

"Ah! Yes, they eat rather obnoxiously. Danke for feeding them! And.. nein. Ehm- I had a nightmare. I have nightmares.. rather often."

"I see. Do you remember what it was about?"

"I don't.." Ludwig lied. He was not going to accidently expose himself by telling the other man about his dreams

"Well, you were sleep talking a bit. Did not bother me, I was already up. You were saying- something about a.. папа- a father?"

Ludwig felt his blood run cold for a second, he looked nervously at the man. He didn't know he sleep talked, and he wondered how much the man had heard- the other man looked guilty,

"Did not mean to scare, Doktor.." he mumbled very gently

"Nein, it is okay. I did not realize I talked when I slept! Eheh, you'll have to excuse me, Misha. I vant to get a shower before anyone else does this afternoon." 

Misha nodded. He still looked guilty.

"Ehm.. Thank you again for the Oatmeal. It was very good, you might be the best chef I have ever met. It is very impressive what you made with such little ingredients."  He said, standing up. It wasn't technically a lie, the only other chefs he knew were an old hook-up who ended up almost burning a kitchen down, his old cooking teacher in high-school who was VIOLENTLY racist, and his own father.. who didn't need any explanation. 

Misha turned a shade of pink at the compliment, but nodded- crossing his arms. 

"Thank you Doktor.. But I am sure that is not very true.. you are just saying nice things."

"Oh no, trust me. Misha you are better by a longshot." He opened the door and exited the room, peeking back in to call for Archimedes- who had apparently forgiven him. The dove fluttered to his shoulder and perched there, pecking gently at his cheek.

"Does your Archimedes need a shower too?" Misha asked

"Yes, the steam is good for his feathers. He loves the steam. He likes to preen in the shower-room."

The other smiled, and nodded again. "That is very sweet. Have a good shower, Doktor. And leetle Archimedes."

Ludwig waved goodbye and headed off in the direction of the showers.

Luckily the showers were empty when Ludwig arrived. He stripped his clothes and put Archimedes in a spot where water would not hit him directly. The doctor turned on the shower, and started his routine.

He would never admit it himself, but the doctor was a little vain. He loved his hair, and took very good care of it. He made sure to do a deep-cleaning at least once a week. He rinsed hair and started cleaning himself- his neck feeling better already.

Archimedes was loving the steam, as usual. The bird was removing pinfeather spikes, and was basking in the steam. The bird took after his master, and was also vain. (For a bird, I guess.) 

The Medic rinsed himself off, but left the shower on while he dried off and got re-dressed- so that the dove could continue preening in the steam. After he turned off the shower, Archimedes flew back to his shoulder. The dove was still wet.

"Ou! Archimedes! Do not get my clean shirt wet! Oh, I just dried.."

He held the bird and put a small towel on his shoulder for the bird to perch. He grabbed his old clothes and walked back to his room.

The shower had only taken him around a half hour, but in that time Misha had managed to clean the room to almost spotlessness. When Ludwig walked in, the man was making Ludwig's bed. He turned to look at doctor;

"Welcome back! You and leetle bird are very damp-" Heavy chuckling, walking over and petting the dove; "Is that what small towel is for?"

The Medic smiled and said "Ja, he got his vet feet on my shoulder after I had just gotten dressed. I did not want to be like a damp bird." Heavy looked at him again, 

"Well Doktor you have damp hair still, so you still are looking like a damp bird." Misha said jokingly, causing Ludwig to make an appalled face

"WOW, Misha.. of all people here. So cruel to me. I cannot believe this." He said, feigning sadness, while putting his dirty clothes in his hamper- Misha put one of his giant hands on the Doctors head and messed up the mans hair;

"I am only joking, Doktor! And besides, who is Heavy to comment about hair?!" He pointed to his own baldness, "You are not like a damp bird, you look very nice. As always."  He complimented, causing Ludwig's ears to turn slightly pink. He scowled and fixed his hair..

"Is true!" Misha said, "I promise, Doktor!" 

Ludwig smiled, "Do not be so nice, Heavy.. I am just a damp bird. You said yourself."

Misha rolled his eyes, while still smirking, and went back to making the doctors bed. 

Ludwig watched him work and smoothed his hair again. He wasn't sure if Misha was being serious with the compliment.. but he hoped he was. 

Du wirst hier nie willkommen sein - you will never be welcome here / you are not welcome here

Eins, zwei, drei, vier, fünf, sechs, sieben, acht - one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight

Chapter Text

Misha smoothed down the covers of the bed, standing back and admiring his work. He turned to look at the Medic who was staring at him with a strange glazed look in his eyes, he looked kind of flushed.

"Is Doktor alright?" He asked, approaching the man

The Medic blinked and smoothed his hair, leaving a few hairs standing up out of place. It was endearing in a way, and Heavy smiled at him. 

"Oh Ja, sawry- Herr Misha. Eheh- I was.. just thinking." He looked at Heavy and smiled awkwardly back, "Vhat?! Why are you looking like that at me?!" 

Heavy laughed and hit the others back, causing him to almost fall forwards- Archimedes took flight angrily and landed on Misha's shoulder, pecking his head. The Doctor caught himself and pushed Misha, not moving him at all. He rolled his eyes;

"Archimedes, enough!" The Medic grabbed the bird and tossed it into the air, the dove landing on the headboard. Misha smiled again at the man, enjoying his annoyance. The other man frowned at him- trying not to smile. He sighed and walked over to his bed, sitting down. Heavy sat across from him on his own bed;

"I have been thinking, I vould be- okay with you calling me by my name. If you vant.. of course. You do not have to, but I feel if we are.. friends like this: it vould be appropriate." The Medic said nervously

Heavy felt very very happy with that development, but also a weird feeling in his heart- almost like an intrusive thought.. but he brushed past that. He was just happy the man trusted him enough for this! He nodded and was about to respond before he realized he did not know the man's name. He had said it the day he arrived, but his focus was more on the man's looks.. Misha opened his mouth and closed it, rubbing the back of his head. The Doctor frowned slightly, looking worried now;

"You don't have to, I vas just offering the idea!"

"NYET, ny-- no. Not like that. Misha would love to. One issue: I have forgotten what your name was. I am very sorry, should've kept better track of these things.." He clarified shamefully

Ludwig smiled and looked relived, 

"Ah! I see. No worries, Misha. My name is Lugvig Humboldt. Doctor- Luvig Humboldt. Ja?" 

"Lud..vig?"

"Neinn Misha! I- Ludvi- Oh my gott. Do you have paper?" 

Misha nodded, reaching over to his small desk and handing the Doctor a mostly-blank paper and pen. He watched as the Doctor wrote his name, L-u-d-w-i-g      H-u-m-b-o-l-d-t, handing the other the paper. Ah. 

"Oh, Lud-wig. That is pretty name. Suits you." Misha said taking the paper, Ludwig opened his mouth to speak, before being interrupted by a knock on the door. He stood up to open it, and Engineer was stood in the doorframe. The man tipped his hat at them both, before turning to speak at Ludwig. 

"Doc', I have real good news for ya! I finished your Medi-Gun! It's in my office now, but I wanted to get your opinion before closing it all up. If you're not busy, of course!" The Engineer said giddily, smiling broadly

The Doctor looked estatic upon hearing the news, 

"Ja! Ja! Let us go look! Danke!" he took his red gloves and snapped them on- turning to wave at Heavy

"Misha, I vill be back soon! I am sawry for interruption, I vill be back later!" Ludwig said quickly, already making his way out the door

Misha nodded and smiled at the pair, watching as they left. He looked down at the paper. Ludwig. It really did suit him. He considered for a moment naming one of his Guns after the man, but that was odd. He looked up to read what was previously written on the paper, and was surprised to see it was a partially written poem. 

He read it, and realized it was the one he had composed about the dream he had- about the doves. It described how angelic they were, the pure white birds. And how they looked like a metaphor for the essence of love and peace, his recalled feeling overcome by a strange feeling seeing the pair- but he couldn't exactly describe it in words.. he had never felt it before the dream but, it was almost like love. 

Misha was no stranger to being loved. In his younger years he was deemed attractive by his village's women, often sleeping with them. He had dated a few, but found it often unenjoyable. He didn't feel like he could truly love them in a way they deserved, hell, he didn't even feel attracted to them if he was being honest. Now, entering his early fifties, he had given up on it almost completely. He was bald, overweight, and was covered in various scars from his bear hunting escapades- he doubted any woman would find him desirable. He looked down at the paper again, Ludwig. He couldn't tell what it was about the man, but he assumed it was jealousy. Ludwig had it all, Misha thought; Beautiful hair, a slender frame, just enough muscles..  just enough chest hair, pretty eyes, gentle, loved his work, passionate, very ha---- He cut off his own thoughts. He felt his face become very very warm. What was he even thinking? Why did his brain insist on making him think these awful thoughts. He hit himself lightly on the head, as if to knock the thoughts from his brain. It was no use being jealous of his one friend! 

Misha stood up and put the paper back on his desk, sitting down at the small area and taking a pencil. He started continuing the poem, freshly inspired by recalling the dream. He tried to put the dreams feeling into words, 

Smitten, drowning, lyubov, страсть, balance, overwhelming, angelic.

lyubov - love

страсть - lust

Chapter Text

Although it had been around 48 hours since Misha had drafted his poem, but he couldn't stop himself from thinking of words to try and get his point across. But now he had to focus on something else, the first battle was the next morning- and Ludwig had decided to conduct his surgery the day before said battle. Now, Misha was sat in the doctor's office, watching the man set up. The other was very focused, laying out various instruments and tools by the operating table. Misha crossed his arms and closed his eyes, hyping himself up for the surgery. He had gotten small surgeries before, but a heart transplant sounded very dangerous.

However, Ludwig had explained to him how his new 'Medi-Gun' worked. Or, he had tried to explain. Misha mostly just nodded, trying not to zone out. He didn't really understand some of the words Ludwig had used, but it sounded very complex and chemical-lly. Misha opened his eyes as the Doctor called for him;

"Herr Heavy! Are you ready, mein friend?" 

Misha nodded, standing up to sit on the operating table,

"What.. exactly is surgery ? What is Doktor going.. to do?"

"Oh no need to worry. Like I said, I vill be replacing your heart for a bigger, and stronger one! It vill be very helpful for tomorrows battle.." Ludwig answered, smiling in an unsettling way, "Please remove your shirt, I need to draw vhere I will be operating on." 

Misha obliged, looking down as the Doctor drew on his skin with a blue marker. 

"But, Doktor Ludwig, don't I have to.. get better from the surgery? How will I fight in battle tomorrow?" 

"Misha, I thought I told you earlier!" Misha frowned as the man looked up at him, "No vorries. My Medi-Gun vill heal your surgery immediately, no pain- maybe. No scars!"

Heavy slowly nodded. Ludwig gently pushed him back to lay down on the table, powering on the Medi-Gun that was across from Misha- down by his feet. It now pointed at his body, and a red fog-like mist flowed out of the gun surrounding the man. Ludwig inhaled some of the mist and smiled- holding up a scalpel...

".. VAIT vait it gets better, when the paitent voke up- his SKELETON was missing.. and the doctor was never heard from again!" Ludwig cackled, holding Misha's heart in his hand carefully-

Heavy paused before laughing loudly, accidently smacking something beside him and causing it to topple to the ground. Surprisingly Ludwig was right, the surgery really wasn't painful--

"Anyvay. That's how I lost my medical license." Misha stopped laughing- but before he could say anything he felt a strange feeling in his stomach,

Archimedes suddenly poked his head out of the open cavity, covered in Heavy's blood. 

"Archimedes! No! It is filthy in zhere." Ludwig shuddered, shooing the bird out.

He grabbed a small metal device, and walked towards the fridge by Misha's feet- opening it, Misha noticed it was filled with various organs. He swallowed, trying his best not to judge the man. Everyone had their own quirks about them, he thought. He watched as the Doctor pulled out a considerably larger heart then his own, putting his old heart in the place he had taken it. He attached the small device towards it, holding it under the Medi-Gun rays. The heart began to glow red, threatening to explode--

But miraculously the large heart began to beat. Both men stared at it, and Ludwig laughed quietly, but the laugh grew to a full maniacal cackle- which invoked a strange feeling in Misha. Ludwig looked almost evil, but Heavy had to admit he would trust him with his life- his smile was terrifyingly lovable in a way.. mostly terrifying though. Misha laughed nervously, not sure what was so funny. He watched as the Doctor turned back to him and leaned down to put his new heart back in his chest, dropping the organ into the cavity;

"Should I be awake for this?" 

Ludwig smiled, "Vell, no. But as long as you are, could you hold your ribcage open a bit? I can't seem to--" He shoved the heart into place, causing Misha to yell out in pain. Misha felt something in his hand and held up a completely broken piece of his own rib;

"Oh don't be such a baby." Ludwig cooed, holding his cheek gently and taking the rib from him- tossing the bone over his shoulder-- "Ribs grow back you know!" He let go of his cheek, but it still burned from where Ludwig had touched him. The Doctor shooed Archimedes off the top of the Medi-Gun, pulling it closer to Misha's open chest and stomach. Energy pulsed through him and he watched his body turn red from where the rays touched- his muscles and skin closing back up to normal, it did not hurt at all.

Misha took a deep inhale, feeling his new heartbeat. It was stronger now, powerful. At this he knew, he was going to wreck the opposing team tomorrow. 

He stood up, turned to face Ludwig. The man was watching him with the same glint in his eye, observing every move he made- as if the wound would open back up at any moment. Ludwig was covered in Heavy's blood, with some even being smeared on his face; Misha took his thumb and gently wiped off the Doctor's cheek, who flinced slightly but allowed it to happen.

"How do you feel?! Like normal, better? Hm?"

"I feel.. strong." Misha flexed his shoulders proudly, holding himself tall. It had been a while since he felt this young. He felt healthy. He felt, extremely strong.

"Sehr good, Herr Heavy. Very, very good." 

Misha grinned wildly at him, suddenly running at him and picking up the other- as if he were a ragdoll,

"Look at how strong Ludwig has made me! Heavy is the strongest!" He swung the man around, jokingly- causing the other to scream and yell at him to be put down, while laughing crazedly.

"We make good team! The best team! I LOVE this Doktor!" 

Chapter Text

After a week of preparing, training, and having his heart replaced- today was the day. It was RED's first battle against BLU. Their goal was to protect a point in the arena, and claim it for three minutes- not letting the opposing side capture it. 

The night before, Misha spent a couple hours shining his gun and writing down little segments of poetry under a small night-lamp. He was sat up in his bed, and gazed at his beloved mini-gun, Sasha, which was laying by his feet. Misha heard a small noise, and turned to look across the room. The noise had come from Ludwig, who was asleep- back facing the other. He watched as the doctor turned in his sleep, and saw his face was contorted into a look of fear. His arms were wrapped around himself, and he was mumbling something. Misha put his poetry aside and started to stand to help the man, but Archimedes shot down from the rafters above the bed, and gently pecked at Ludwig-- causing the man to shoot up. 

"NEINLASSMICHIN..ruh.." Ludwig shouted, something Mikhail didn't understand. He was used to some of the basic German the man spoke, but this was much more aggressive. Ludwig swiveled his head and glared at Misha, who frowned.

"Ees.. Doktor okay?" He asked cautiously, temporarily losing grasp on the English language under his friends glare. Ludwig's face shifted again, now looking less anger filled and more tired. 

"..Ja. Vill be fine. I am just nervous for tomorrow, I am guessing." 

"Ok, Ludwig. If you need anything, I am here.. with you. да?" 

Ludwig nodded, gently taking Archimedes and tossing the dove into the air-and it flew back to its perch. The man laid down, back facing Misha again.

"Danke, Mishka." 

Misha didn't correct the man. He smiled and laid down, turning off the little light. He made a mental note to tell Ludwig that 'Mishka' is what a lover would call him. It meant something like "Little Bear" and was a fairly popular pet-name for Mikhail. 

However, he didn't really mind the man calling him it. He didn't know after all, it was just a simple mistake. 

Misha woke up early that morning. He was very excited for the day. He needed to share his excitement with someone, so he stood up and gently shook his roommate awake- swatting Archimedes protective attacks away, even more gently. 

Ludwig smacked his arm and groaned, but Misha grabbed him jokingly. He picked up the man;

"No! No more sleep for you! It is battle today! Need to prepare! You get to test 'Medi-Gun' today!" 

Ludwig laughed tiredly, smacking the man so he would be put down. When he did put him on the ground, his ears were flushed pink again.

"Herr Misha, you vill hurt me if you keep picking me up. I am too old for that, much too old. You know this!" 

"Noo.. would never hurt you. Doktor is not old! Only a few years more than me, yes?"

Ludwig just stretched and rolled his eyes, starting to get into his uniform. Misha did the same, turning around and pulling on his assigned clothing. He hadn't tried on his vest yet, but when he did it fit like a glove. He watched as Ludwig carefully combed his hair in the mirror, letting a piece curl on his forehead. Misha thought he looked like the 'Superman' he had seen the Scout reading about briefly. Ludwig pulled on his boots, and quickly fed his doves. 

"Are you ready, Herr Heavy?"

Mikhail nodded, grabbing Sasha carefully. The pair started out the door, towards the commonplace room.

When the duo arrived, they were greeted by Engineer. He and Pyro were sat on the floor, and Engi was leaning on a large red toolbox- watching Pyro draw on a small piece of paper. The Demoman and the Scout were also there. Demoman was sitting at the table alone, drinking a large bottle of alcohol. Scout was on one of the couches, "reading" a comic while bouncing his leg and glancing at them nervously. Misha almost felt bad for him. 

Ludwig opted to kneel down and converse with Engineer and the Pyro, while Misha made his way to the kitchen. He found some leftovers that were apparently cooked by someone before, and it was minimally burnt bacon and eggs. Mikhail grabbed two plates, and put a helping on each of them- (one significantly more than the other)-- and made his way back to the common room. He handed the smaller plate to Ludwig, and sat back down.

"Thank you, Herr Heavy.. Ah, vould you like my bacon?" 

Misha raised his eyebrows,

"..If you don't want. Does Doktor not like bacon?"

Ludwig shook his head, and passed his plate over to let Misha take it. 

Finally the Sniper, Spy, and Solider entered the room. They were deep in a conversation, and all made their way to help themselves to the food in the kitchen- sitting down with the Demoman after. 

Misha finished his food, and took both of the plates back to the kitchen. He was glad Ludwig had eaten before the battle. As he made his way back to the room, he noticed immediately Scout was attempting to lift his gun.

"Jeez, Big Guy. Yo, this shit is HEAVY. Guess that's why you're called Heavy."

Misha rushed over and smacked the man away; "Don't touch my gun." he growled

Scout opened his mouth to make a, likely snarky, comeback but snapped it shut as Misha raised his hand again. The Scout sat down and picked up his comic book again. 

Soon enough, a woman came over the loudspeaker, announcing it was time to go into the battlefield.

Ludwig paced close behind Misha, as the team gathered in the resupply room where the battle would begin.

Heavy shot him a thumbs up, and loaded Sasha.

A countdown began and his team shouted out excitedly.

3..

2....

1..

FIGHT!

To Misha, the battlefield was like home. He loved feeling powerful, and with his new heart he felt like he owned the field. He roared as he and Sasha mowed down an enemy Scout- who was advancing on the RED Solider. The Solider shot him a thumbs up and rocket-jumped to kill the enemy Medic. Heavy studied how his teammates fought, and what their weaknesses were.

The Solider was a powerful man, he had said he ran on pure patriotism and Heavy believed him now- watching him fight. The man was bold, running directly into the swarm of BLU risking his own life on a multitude of times- and unsurprisingly being the one who was having to respawn the most.

The Sniper stayed father back, posted in a high point to headshot the enemies. Misha didn't see a lot of the man.

On the other hand, it seemed everywhere Heavy looked he saw the Scout. He was like a weasel, and probably the fastest person he had ever seen. He ran circles around blue- laughing wildly when he got a kill with his bat. He mocked the other team like a child, but then again.. Misha bet it felt good to do so.

The Pyro and Engineer stuck together for the most part. Pyro having the mans back as he built sentries and teleporters, the Pyro was surprisingly exceptional  at killing BLU members. Lighting them ablaze and finishing them off with an axe- also laughing. 

Everywhere the Demoman went, explosions followed. He was skillful in aiming- shouting drunken nonsense as he exploded the members. And, when it came to the Spy, Heavy had seen him maybe twice. He was creeping around, finishing people with a backstab. 

Heavy mowed down a BLU Engi and Sentry. 

But by far, the man he admired most was the Medic. He was fast, almost as quick as the Scout. Whenever anyone called he would appear behind them almost instantly- healing them in a matter of moments. He was good with combat too, he carried a saw with him. Heavy felt pain in his right shoulder suddenly, putting his hand over the wound. He was shot. He quickly ducked behind a building- only to see Ludwig, covered in blood. He had apparently just won a battle with the opposing Engi, as the man came out of BLU's respawn machine. The other man's corpse was laying beneath the Doctor. He was grinning, the same grin he had while practicing his procedures.

Heavy felt his heart speed up, what a man Ludwig was, he thought. Heavy had never wanted to protect someone more, but at the same time he wanted to see his friend that happy, that- maniacally excited all of the time. Shaking his thoughts, he called for the doctor.

"DOKTOR!"

Ludwig snapped around and quickly charged his Medi-Gun, sprinting towards the other. 

"Herr Heavy, I vas just looking for you." He quickly healed the gunshot, and paused his dialogue as Heavy turned around and killed an approaching uncloaked BLU spy. He turned to see the doctor looking at him, with the same glint in his eye. 

"Vould you be villing to try übercharge?"

Misha nodded, and raised his gun- reloading the weapon. 

Starting back onto the field, he felt the rays hit his back. 

"Doktor!" He turned around again, 

"Are you sure this will work?"

The Medic grinned, 

"Haha, I have NO idea!" and flicked the switch

Misha's heart sped up rapidly, he pulsed with red and let out a loud battle cry. He looked down to his arms to see they now shined as the same colour as the Medi-Gun's rays. He saw the oncoming charge of BLU team, and revved up his Sasha. A rocket hit him square in the chest, but it didn't matter. His Doctor had made him invincible.

"I AM BULLETPROOF!" He shouted, taking down all of the enemies crowded at the control point, defending the point for the final time before time ended. The timer for RED's control hit zero.

They had won. 

He dropped Sasha carelessly and turned to grab the Medic in celebration, only to see him hunched over on the ground- clutching his stomach. 

"Doktor?! Wh.. What happen? You okay, is Ludwig shot?" he asked frantically kneeling down beside the man and prying away his hands to check the damage. The Medic's lower stomach was covered in his own blood now, leaking from two gunshot holes directly through his stomach and side. 

"Vell.. Eheh- get to see how.. respawn works now, Ja.. See du in a bit, Mishka." 

Misha put his hands to hold the doctor as he bled out. Seeing his friend like this made all excitement drain from his body. He had failed to protect the doctor. Misha was a man of few tears, but seeing Ludwig like this could have brought him to cry.

Misha wanted to rip whoever had shot him apart, for the rest of his life. He knew the man would respawn, but Heavy held his body close- protecting him from the ground and any prying eyes of their teammates or foe.

Ludwig's body eventually disappeared after a few minutes, but Misha remained covered in Ludwig's blood. He picked up Sasha and marched back to the respawn machine solemly. He tried to erase seeing the lifeless corpse of his closest friend from his mind, but it made him feel sick.

He had failed him.

As he approached the respawn machine he saw his teammates congratulating Ludwig, and thanking him. Afterall, the doctor was probably responsible for the entire teams safety and victory. He watched even the Solider salute him before heading back inside to celebrate with the others. Misha walked up to Ludwig who faced him, smiling. 

"Hallo again, Misha! Congratulations! I am so happy that the übercharge worked! You vere amazing.. vhat is wrong?" 

"I failed you. Did not stop you from dying. Even when we were so close together." He hung his head sadly. 

"Oh, don't be such a baby. You did very very vell. I could have died many more times if it vasn't for you." 

Ludwig patted him on the back and gently guided him into the base. 

A few of their teammates were celebrating loudly in the common room, hearing mostly the shouts of the Scout and Demoman. Heavy saw the Sniper slinking back to his van, and Pyro creeping around back to their room.

Eventually, the pair arrived at the shower room. 

"I suggest you get a shower before anything else, mein freund. You are covered in my own blood." Ludwig stated, starting to remove his own stained clothing. 

Misha nodded, and quickly did the same- facing away from the other man awkwardly. He had never showered in the shower-room's someone else before. He turned on the showerhead and heard the other do the same behind him. He turned slightly to grab his soap and glanced at the other, who met his gaze and they both quickly looked away. Misha felt very, very warm- despite the cold shower water.

He quickly washed himself, and grabbed a towel- wrapping it around his waist. Trying his best not to glance at the still showering man, he made his way back to the room.

Upon his arrival, the Doctors doves started cooing at him softly. Misha waved at the birds, and put on a white tank top and  brown shorts. While he waited for the other to return, he sat on his bed. Seeing Archimedes stare at him, Misha offered his hand out for the dove to land on. Archimedes landed gently onto Misha's massive hand, and cooed adoringly as the man began to pet the bird gently. 

The door opened, and Ludwig walked in with a towel wrapped around his waist. His chest was exposed, and Misha could see various scars littered on the man- covered mostly by a thick amount of chest hair, leading all the way down to under the towel. He continued petting the dove, while absentmindedly watching the man put on a pair of boxers- and his glasses. Ludwig always slept in minimal clothing, but normally had a nest of sheets and blankets preventing the colder air from touching his skin. 

Ludwig sat opposite from him and watched him pet the bird.

"He must really like you. He hasn't let anyone hold him besides me before." Ludwig said softly

"Hm. I like this leetle dove, and I am glad to hear he likes me too."

"Misha, you did very gut today. You did very, very vell. I am sawry I ruined the moment of celebration by, vell, you know. Dying." 

"No need to be sorry. Just.. scared me, in way. Doktor did the best today. Doktor is smartest man I have ever met, you made me like a god."

Ludwig smiled crookedly, "I am very glad it worked. Danke, for letting me try. Most people vould not trust me."

Misha shook his head and frowned at the other, "That is.. nonsense. I would trust Ludwig with my own life."

"I would trust you too, Misha."

...

..

Ludwig climbed into his bed, and laid down. It was getting dark out, and the older man looked especially exhausted. "I think I vill sleep now. Feel free to do vhatever, I know it is pretty early.. by the vay, show me that poem you spoke of when we met, ja? I have been meaning to ask about it."

"I will. I hope you sleep well, Ludwig. Спокойной ночи.." 

"Goodnight, Mishka."

да - yes / yeah

Спокойной ночи - have a peaceful night / goodnight

 thank you for reading! / danke fürs lesen <3

Chapter Text

Ludwig woke up a few times that night. He just couldn't fall asleep for more than a couple hours at a time, memories and emotions were buzzing through him. How could he sleep, after what had happened only a few hours before? Ludwig had watched men get blown to bits, shot, dismembered.. he even had seen his own opposite likeness get killed a number of times. He had watched his own new team, rush into battle- get killed, respawn. Everything was, to put it simply, fascinating but horrifying. 

Ludwig would consider himself a key part of the teams success, without him they would have wasted many minutes running from respawn and back. He still would have to adjust to the teams fighting skills- to keep up with the Scout, or to stand back as the Pyro would carelessly light the others ablaze.. but, from what he knew already, Ludwig guessed he knew already who he would work best with. (Even with minimal calculating!) 

Based on his healing and Misha's (impressive) strength he had a hypothesis that they would work best together. He wondered if that is why they were put into the same room, or why the two had gotten along. Did the Mercenaries boss intentionally gather two non-English speaking men, and put them together.. assuming they would get along? But how would they know, a German and a Russian man would get on so well.. it didn't seem sensible to Ludwig, during late night intrusive thinking sessions like these. But, then again- was his relationship with Misha sensible? Weren't they, in most aspects, complete opposites? Shouldn't Ludwig hate Misha, and vice versa. 

He flipped to gaze at the other man, who was sleeping soundly- snoring lightly.

Maybe Misha would hate Ludwig. Maybe he already did, and was just waiting for an excuse to stop pretending to be friendly towards the other. He scowled at this thought, he already knew a good few excuses that would be more than enough for the other to hate him. 

Ludwig was divorced, had lost his only admirable accomplishment, was a disappointment to his family, and most importantly: a homosexual. "Frowned upon" was as an extreme understatement. "Target to be killed" was more accurate. He felt awful that he was basically faking who he was, not telling the truth completely to his friend. He didn't want to be accused of preying upon the other, if the truth ever came out.

He had admired the man since meeting him, but he shrugged off any risky thoughts that had creeped into his head. He didn't want to ruin his one relationship he had left, his one friendship- (with another human- that is.) And if Ludwig was being honest he was plain jealous of the man, he didn't doubt Misha was good with ladies- or that he had a loving family. Ludwig glared at Mikhail. He wished he was as good as him. He wished he was normal. 

Misha suddenly stirred, blinking his eyes open- as if he had felt the glare of the others. He turned to face the doctor upon seeing him awake- he widened his eyes in surprise.

"доктор? Why ees.. eh.." He yawned, "Why ees Ludwig awake? Everything okay?" 

"...'

"Does doktor need to talk? Bad dreams?" He sat up, pushing his mini-gun away. 

Ludwig thought he would cry. He hated this. He was supposed to be proud, to be celebrating the victory- but he was ruining this. His eyes were misty, and he shook his head, but he mimicked the other and sat up on the bed. 

Misha frowned and crossed his arms. 

"I want to help. You look.. sad. What ees wrong?"

"I-.. I don't know. I can't sAy." Ludwig's voice cracked, and he cleared his throat self-consciously. "It doesn't really matter. I am sawry, go back to bed."

Misha frowned, and stood up to sit beside the other on his bed. Ludwig scooted away from him to give the man room.  

He muttered, "Not going to be able to sleep if you are upset.."

Ludwig frowned at him, starting to get frustrated. He was not a child, but he was being treated as one. 

"I don't need to be treated as if I am a child, Mikhail. I vill be fine."

"It is not treating like a child to care about you. Want to help. I care for you, we are team."

"..."

"You can tell me anything, it is not like I would- or.. or could tell any other person.. if it ees a secret. Or bad dream.. or fea--"

"Misha, I cannot tell you! You.. you vould probably break me in half! I don't want to tell you!"

Misha furrowed his brow, and placed a giant hand on the doctors back,

"I would never do that, would never- ever hurt you on purpose. I am upset you think this of me. Why do you think I would.. hurt?"

"BECAUSE, Misha- if even mein Vater would-- agh! I don't know!" He practically yelled, his fear coming out as frustration instead. He wasn't thinking, at this point. 

Misha stared at him, eyes void of emotion.

"..Mikhail. I have no family. I-.. I have no wife, no children. No parents. I vas kicked out, shunned."

...

Ludwig stared into the others eyes sadly. His decades long exhaustion was breaking him. He was nearly 50 now, he had done a lot in life- perhaps too much. Maybe it didn't matter now what others thought of him, if he would be more shunned then he already was. Maybe it was a few years too late now, or maybe it was just late at night and he wasn't thinking properly;

"Mikhail.. I am- I am homosexual. I am queer. I am sawry, I vish it- I wish I vas different."  Ludwig bowed his head, not wanting to even look at the other. 

Misha's hand stayed on his back.

...

..

"Ah. Well.  That is okay with me. Doesn't change who you are, I already know you. We are team, da? Glad you told me. I never will tell anyone, if Doktor want's." Misha rubbed the other's back gently, scooting closer.

Ludwig raised his head, and almost immediately became overcome by warm, violent tears- like a baby. He sobbed into his hands, blubbering nonsense. 

Misha made a soft noise and wrapped his arms around the man, pulling him closer in an attempt to comfort him. 

"Sorry to make you cry."

Ludwig couldn't answer, he could only sob into the other- beneath his chin, protected by Misha's arms and torso. 

After nearly five decades of this, this constant hatred- even towards himself- Misha was the first man he felt he could trust enough, even if his outing wasn't... completely intentional.

He was safe with this man. 

Finally.

It was, really late. It was very late, especially regarding the days activities. Ludwig's sudden burst of emotion eventually led him to doze off, still having the others arms wrapped around him.

...

..

.

Extra; Misha POV..

Misha gently peeled the sleeping man off of him, wiping his soggy face with his hand. Even after the meltdown, Misha thought he looked nice. Misha's heart was beating rather fast.

He felt so, grateful. That he had protected Ludwig, that he had made the other feel safe enough to tell him. He loved having a connection like this, he loved being close to the other. He loved- being friends.. or a team.. with the other. 

Misha stood up, laying the doctor in the bed, covering him with the sheets and blanket. He smiled. Archimedes cooed from above him;

"Listen, leetle bird. Tell your master that.. he is bravest man Misha has ever met. You tell him that. I know you talk with Doktor." He whispered, as quiet as he could. He was smiling goofily, whispering deliriously to the bird. He crept back to his own bed, covering himself with his own blanket and closing his eyes- still smiling. 

He might have been a hulking killing machine, with a love for battle- but he wasn't a monster.

He loved that Doctor. 

Chapter Text

Ludwig blinked his eyes open, putting a hand in front of his face as the golden sunlight infiltrated into his eyes. He groaned quietly and grabbed his glasses that were on the nightstand beside him, pushing them on and sitting up. He looked up to the rafters above him, and counted some the doves- still half asleep. This morning, his thoughts didn't seem as loud. He had a strange light feeling in his chest, but he felt the stare of his roommate. He turned to look at the other, who was half-smiling at him, sitting up and writing on a sheet of paper. Ludwig frowned slightly, still waking up groggily. He felt odd, as if he had forgo---

Ah.

A wave of sickness, and anxiety instantly overcame him- instantly waking him up. He stared at the other man, opening his mouth to speak- but finding his voice gone. He shut his mouth foolishly. He cringed internally. What was he even thinking.. Misha smiled at him again,

"Good morning, Ludwig. Made sandvich for you, and one for leetle birds. Look at them!" He pointed towards the small table in the corner of room, which was currently occupied by three or so white birds- pecking furiously at a plate of sandvich.

Ludwig felt a sense of relief flow into his veins, a sense of- tranquility, and adoration. He remembered now why his half-conscious self had chosen to tell Misha his deepest secret. This man was the most caring person he had, and would ever meet. Ludwig didn't want to sound crazy, but- He wanted to take the mans heart and protect it for however long he lived, he wanted to harvest the organs of anyone who had ever harmed the man. Ludwig would kill for this man, it was the least he could do. He smiled hastily at the other man, realizing his thoughts had distracted him for answering. Tears pricked at his eyes threateningly, but he blinked them away- before cringing. He tried to hush his thoughts, and answer confidently;

"Ah. Danke Misha."

Heavy POV

Misha watched as the man climbed out of his bed, and made his way over to the table. He had a dazed expression on his face, and looked deep in thought. Luckily, Misha would have all day to figure out why- and to hear him out. Yesterday's battle had taken place on a Friday, giving the mercinaries a complete weekend of preparation before resuming their first week of battles on Monday. 

"Does.. Ludwig have any big plans for today?"

"Hm. Eheh- team check-up, probably. Need to determine what I can do to best help the others." Ludwig mumbled around a bite of Sandvich

"Ah. I see. Misha will help doctor, if you would like. Will be hard to round up teammates, I imagine."

Ludwig smiled kindly at him,

"I suppose. But, don't worry. I can handle those dummköpfe. If you had any other plans today, by all means- go ahead... Danke for offer though."

Misha nodded wisely;

"If doctor insists. I want to train with Sasha for a bit today, was disappointed with how we were on field. What does word mean?"

Ludwig smirked at him, standing up from the table- taking out new clothes for the day

"Idiots. Fools, clowns. Dumbasses."

Misha chuckled loudly and turned back to his poem, he had been stumped of what to add next- and wanted the writing to be perfect to show the other. He doodled a less than accurate Archimedes, that resembled more a blob with eyes- rather than the dove. 

He looked up again as Ludwig made his way to the door, turning the handle slightly. He paused.

"See you soon, Misha."

"Goodbye, Doktor!"

...

Ludwig turned to look at him again, straightening his posture in an air of confidence. Despite the act, his ears were flushing pink. 

"Eheh. And.. thank you. Misha. I uh- I know you.. ve vill be different. I understand- is not easy. I am sorry I am like this. I understand if- really, anything has been changed- er.. in vhat you think about me." He finished, somewhat lamely. 

Misha put his paper and pencil aside, standing up and walking towards the man. Ludwig cowered slightly as he approached.

He stared down at the other for a few moments, before grabbing the other and pulling him close. He wrapped his arms around the other, and stuck his face into the mans hair. He was warm. 

The other froze, before hugging back gently.

Despite being a great bear of a man, who was infatuated with killing and fighting: Mikhail was a hugger. He always had hugged his family like this, and he loved the physical connect the gesture allowed. Hugging Ludwig felt natural, but in a different way than hugging his sisters- or Mama. He didn't mind. This was the first friend he could hug.

"Nothing changes. I don't c.. Well, I do care. But- not about that. I care about you. Understand?" He placed the man down gently, watching as he wiped his eyes. The man nodded- adjusting his now crooked glasses. His ears were verry red.

"Thank you. Thank you, Misha."

Misha nodded, and Ludwig headed out the door. 

The man watched him leave, before shutting the door. He tried not to think more about the physical contact with the man. But, if he wa being truthful, he wouldn't have minded the connection lasting a few more seconds. Or minutes. He had been rather lonely, the past few weeks. He pulled on a new red shirt, and brown pants. The doctor smelled nice. Misha pulled on his socks. Ludwig was nice to be close to. His hands were cold, though. Maybe Misha could warm them up sometime. Mikhail pulled on his boots, grabbing Sasha-- and heading out of the room.

He made his way toward the kicthen, a pre-training snack wouldn't hurt. 

As he arrived, there was two other men in the room. The Scout and Sniper were both sat at the kitchen table- Misha could hear the Scout gossiping feverishly about someone.

"Nah, Sniper. I'm TELLING you man. He- S- They're a complete maniac. I'm being so freaking honest. I literally- LITERALLY heard them laugh, after setting like- three people on fire.."

The Sniper waved as Misha approached- 

"Mate, didn't-chu do the same thing? I heard you calling 'em names and shit.. laughing ain't much different."

Scout took a swig of the can he was holding, slamming it obnoxiously back onto the table.

"No. No, Snipes- here's the thing. Worst part is: I was right near him when-.. she-- they-- died and man- they LAUGHED, when THEY were dying. Shit scared the fuck out of me!" He shuddered as the other sighed, looking very tired. 

"Sure.. Hey, Heavy. Want some food? I made pikelets earlier."

Misha opened his mouth to answer, but was interrupted. 

"Dude, I'm telling you. Pancakes. Call them pancakes. Not some weird-ass name like.. picklets.. sounds freaking gross."

Sniper stared at Scout. 

Mikhail quietly helped himself to a few of the pancakes- or pikelets- or whatever. He quickly made his way out of the room as Scout started up again, this time spewing something about how he was going to prove Pyro's insanity to the Sniper. 

Misha made his way outdoors, to the target field. 

note:

Hello! I am sorry for cliffhanger, but- I had the full chapter but deleted it accidently and did not save a back up.. (lesson learned..)!!! I will post the second half tomorrow, if I can between my school and work.

Thank you, truly, for all the support on this fic. It is my first one, and I love getting the comments!!!! It makes me really happy to know i can share my writing with people.

When this fic ends, I already have an after-retirement fic in the works! :) 

I hope you enjoyed short chapter!!! <3

Chapter Text

Misha sat on a bench that was near the training arena. He looked around the arena as he started to eat his pancakes- some of the targets were tattered on tthe dusty ground, filled with bullet-holes and charred edges. Some of the ground was completely darkened from explosions or fire- and bullet casings littered the arena.

As Misha finished his breakfast he discarded his plate, and grabbed Sasha. He moved further down the arena, to where most of the targets were still standing- at varying distance from himself.

He loaded Sasha, but also grabbed a shotgun from a shelf full of weapons. He was disappointed with himself yesterday, he did not know exactly what it was- but it felt like something was eating him up. Misha loaded the shotgun, gently placing Sasha down. He aimed at a closer target and fired;

BANG!

Hit. A flash of a bloodied BLU Scout materialized in his head. He was injured, but still alive. Heavy aimed at another target.

BANG!

Another hit. This time, the memory-Scout was looking up at him, and he killed the man with Sasha- ending his suffering. Misha reloaded the gun, swinging it towards a close target.

Miss. A picture of the bloodied body of Ludwig disappearing in front of him flashed in his mind. He shivered off the distressing image. He would do better, much better- next time. He would rip anyone apart who shot at the man. 

BANG!

Hit. He remembered mowing down a BLU Spy as the man uncloaked- approaching him and Ludwig.

BANG!

Miss, this time barely nicking a different target he was aiming for. The Memory-Ludwig was staring at him, he watched the light fade from the man's eyes. It reminded him of him watching the murderous glare of a brown bear disappear. Ludwig, he had that same 'glint'. The same desire. He couldn't explain it exactly.

BANG!

Hit. It wasn't a bad thing, though. He didn't mind. He had the same desire, too. Maybe a little different. 

...

He reloaded the shotgun.

Medic POV

As Spy exited his office, and Scout walked in- Ludwig wished he had accepted Misha's offer of help. It had taken both Spy and Engie to find (and convince) the man to come.

"Hallo, Herr Scout!"

Scout grimaced, and sat down on the operating table. Crossing his arms defiantly;

"Listen, Doc'. I-on't need a check-up, alright? I am fine, you've seen it. I am not doing any of that- shot, shit."

Ludwig smiled, trying to mask his annoyance.

"Ah, no need to vorry. Probably no needles.. today, at least."

Ludwig flipped through the mans medical files on his clipboard- he had memorized a few of the members but these documents were fresh for his mind. 

"So, if zhis is accurate; it says here you suffer from 'minimal brain damage' and your symptoms are.. hyperactivity, inability to focus, impulsive and reckless behavior- does this sound familiar, Herr Scout?"

Scout nodded. 

"Good! I vill mark this as accurate then.. Now, have you been feeling vell? Physical, mental?"

"Yeah, for sure. I- uh- getting shot isn't fun. I normally just run past the bullets though, you kno--" 

Scout was interrupted as Archimedes fluttered down to peck at the mans hands, as he was flaring them to illustrate his point quite a bit.

"What the fuck? Doc', they let you bring pet's? Get it away from me! I don't want it's weird-- bird disease!" 

He shooed the bird, who landed on the Doctors shoulder- whose energy was draining by the second. 

"Yes. Archimedes is my lab assistant, eh- less of pet. Now, for the whole team I have done.. quick little heart surgery. Eheh- you see how Herr Heavy was yesterday? He was red, and bullet-proof. This is from surgery, and it vorks! He vas my guinea pig."

Scout looked at him, narrowing his eyes suspiciously.

"Now, I- I know you said 'no needles' but- think about it, Scout. You vould be safe from bullets for time during battle! It is barely any pain and I--"

"DON'T even think about that. Hell no! Are you crazy?! I'm fine, get me outta here."

He stood up, and speed-walked towards the door;

"You and your creepy-ass bird can stay away from my heart! I don't need your... German-ass messing with it! I am fine, obviously! Look at me!.." He continued ranting as he left the room, slamming the door behind him. 

Honestly, a relief. He had already done five surgeries today- well six. He had attempted to sneak a new liver into the Demoman, but the man's body started rejecting it immediately- forcing it to be removed and the old one to be put back in. Luckily, the man was too intoxicated to notice. Now, all that was left for today's agenda was Pyro.

He re-sanitized the materials where Scout was- and awaited his final paitent. 

Pyro walked in, waving kindly and mumbling something ineligible. Engineer was following behind, and had a hand gently placed on the others back.

"Hallo, Pyro! And, Herr Engi."

"Howdy, Doc! Is it okay if I stay for the check-up?"

"Ja! Of course, as long as you are okay with that, Pyro?"

"Huddah Huh. Mmph." Pyro nodded, and put two thumbs-up.

"..Great.. have a seat on the table, bitte!"

Ludwig had found Pyro's file only a few hours before, during Soldier's evaluation. He flipped though the pages, turning back to Pyro.

"Ok. So, I just need to make sure this is all accurate. I vill read out vhat I was provided, you just stop me if it sounds unfamiliar- to either of you. I vill try to answer any questions you may have!"

Engineer nodded, pulling over a chair to sit by the operating table.

"Ah, so- Minimal Brain damage, could be cause of some of ze hallucinations, schizophrenia.. credited to uh- main cause of hallucinations. Delusion, and potential PTSD. Sound all good, Pyro?"

Pyro looked at him, the eyes of the gas-mask staring eerily into the others eyes. They gave another thumbs up.

"Gut, sehr gut! Now, I have a question. In your other teammates, including Engineer, I have given heart s--"

"Mmph! Mmh mmph huhmm!" 

Engineer chuckled,

"Yeah, we talked about that. Pyro said they would love to."

"Vunderbar! Ve caan do it now, then. I can be done in ten minutes! Are you okay with that? It vill be painless, and quick!" 

Pyro nodded, and laid down on the table- not removing the uniform at all. Engineer opted to move back towards the Doctors desk, further away from the surgery-area. 

"Is it okay if I unzip some of your suit, just the space I need for the surgery?" 

Pyro nodded again, and hesitated- before using his own hands and unzipping the uniform a bit. Beneath the uniform was a heavily-scarred torso. Burn scars, and bullet wounds- maybe even electric- Ludwig thought. He snapped on his gloves and gently traced a diagram of where he would open the person- through the ribcage. Ludwig then turned on the Medi-Gun- pointing it toward the patient.

He began the final surgery of the night.

Like he promised, around ten minutes later it was complete. No scars from the surgery were left, and a successful uber-device was placed on their heart. Pyro was in good spirits, apparently happy to join their fellow team in the heart transplants-- and they had even hugged Ludwig before skipping off excitedly. Engineer had thanked the Doctor, and asked for a copy of the files- which he provided. They waved goodbye and Ludwig packed up for the night.

Reentering his own room, he stripped down to his boxers- and flopped dramatically onto his bed. It was dark now, and it had been a long day. After a few minutes, he heard the door open behind him- it was Misha. He was carrying Sasha, and smelled like smoke. He blinked at the doctor as he smiled at him.

"Long day, Misha?"

Misha just nodded and grunted a reply. He changed into his sleep-clothes as Ludwig faded off into slumber- 

"Goodnight, Misha."

"Спокойной ночи, мой доктор."

Chapter Text

The next day was boring. Ludwig had to file paperwork, and do smart doctor-y things. This left Misha in the room, tidying up the place. Earlier he had cleaned both of the bed's sheets, and was redressing the bunks. As he was adjusting his pillow, his elbow bumped against Sasha- and he gasped.

"Oh! Sasha! Poor gun, I am sorry. Will not hit you again." 

He took the mini-gun and placed it on the very end of the bed. Brandishing a bag of cotton swabs, Misha got to work delicately cleaning Sasha. He was deep in thought. This activity always helped clear his mind-  and allowed him to take a moment of peace in the normally rushed day.

Misha missed his family. He missed them a lot, actually. He felt his heart ache as he thought of his Mama, of his sisters. Misha would fight to provide, to protect them. He knew they were safe. His eldest sister, Zhanna, was a fierce protector. She had assisted Mikhail in his bear hunting duty a number of times, and was very efficient with the close combat needed to take down such an enemy. There was a two month 'no-mail' policy, due to legal, confidentially, and safety of the company- but Misha was counting down the days before he could send his letters. He had already written three, detailing his days- and his made-memories thus far. He hoped the mail-carrier would be able to reach his family, but he guessed it would take many weeks for him to get a response. He tried to look on the postive, though- it was better than nothing.. he could have no contact, or even no family. Like Ludwig. 

Misha furrowed his brow. Ludwig always seemed to appear in his head, whenever he was deep in thought. 

But it was true, Ludwig had told him he had no family. Misha couldn't imagine. He had wanted to ask the man more questions, but the doctor was clearly a mess- and Misha didn't want to say anything disrespectful. The idea of queerness had never really, well, bothered him before. He made a point not to think about it. If it wasn't hurting anyone, or affecting him- why would he think about it? He couldn't imagine kicking someone out because of that, especially not Ludwig. Ludwig, he was a genius! Hell, he gave Misha a new heart- he made him bulletproof! He was considerate, and easy to talk to.. and was nice to listen to, and had a nice accent.. and pretty German words.. how could anyone look past that- only to the fact the man was homosexual?

Misha wondered what his Mama would say, if she knew about Ludwig. Would she laugh if she found out her son was staying with a homosexual, German doctor? Or would she congratulate her son on making a new friend. Mikhail wanted to introduce Ludwig to his family. The pair had only met a few weeks prior, but it really felt like they knew each-other for years. Misha imagined taking the doctor to Siberia, to his family's cottage- and introducing the man. He would cook for Ludwig, show him his culture. Ludwig could probably stay in his room, the bed was big enough for the two of them. Misha wouldn't mind that. The extra body-temperature might help with the frigidness. Maybe one day Ludwig would take him to his hometown, the man had told him stories of the library he had frequented when he was younger. Misha would like to see it too, and have the doctor talk to him about the books- and translate the German words he didn't understand. He--

The man paused his shining, was this weird? He didn't know. Misha didn't go out of his way to make friends when he was back home, so Ludwig was his first friend in a long while. Something about the man was just- off. Every time Misha had thought about Ludwig recently, there was just something lingering in the back of his head- it was starting to annoy him. 

Misha had come here, to this job, for his family. To provide for his beloved family, to make sure they had enough money and supplies. But now, it felt like everything had changed. He realized then that if he had the choice to go, he would stay. Mikhail would stay long enough so that Ludwig could come with him, so that he could provide for and protect the man too. He was all he had here, and he wasn't going to let their bond go to waste. Not even in the fictional scenario where he could leave before his contract was over. He would not go without taking Ludwig, he wasn't going to let the other be lonely anymore. He would be there for him. 

Misha finished polishing Sasha, and sat on his bed- looking to the ground, head in his hands. His thoughts were swirling. 

It was going on six in the evening now, and Ludwig had still not returned. Misha hoped the man had eaten, but he had a feeling he had not. Misha stood up, and exited the room. 

"Silly man. Too smart, but too silly to feed himself. Fool." He muttered to himself, smiling.

He conjured up two sandviches, one for him and one for Ludwig- and headed off in the direction of the doctor's lab.

..

Inside the lab was a mess of paperwork, and tools. The operating table had stacks of files that were five feet tall, and the side tables and chairs were covered in stacks of books, all arranged in a color-coordinated manner. Ludwig was pacing around his now empty bookshelf, muttering quickly to himself in German. Even facing away from Misha, he looked frazzled. Misha was startled by the chaos, and stacked the plates precariously on a stack of books nearby- he approached the other man.

"Doktor?"

Ludwig didn't hear, he was counting the empty slots in the shelf, standing on his toes to see the top. Mikhail cleared his throat,

"Ludwig?" He asked, a little louder-

Ludwig spun around, obviously startled by the other's presense- His hair was all messed up, and his collared shirt was unbuttoned at the first few buttons. His eyes were wide, like a scared cat's.

"Oh mein gott, Misha! You startled me! Vhat do you need?!"

Misha scanned him up and down, making sure everything was alright physically with the man. 

"I.. wanted to make sure you ate, Doktor. Did not see you come out for many hours. I made you sandvich." He got closer to Ludwig, slightly anxious about the mans state.

Ludwig shook his head;

"Ah, I did not eat- but I am not hungry, for now! I have too much to do and, you see- bookshelf still needs organized, und now I need the- eh- files!"

He ran a hand through his hair and looked despairingly around the room, not making eye-contact with Misha. Who was now, very anxious.

"I think.. you are done for tonight with work."

Ludwig opened his mouth to combat this, but Misha put a hand on his back.

"Do not argue. You need rest, you are in a bad state. Need to be in good place for tomorrow. You will come with me or I will pick you up. You have worked too hard, now it is time to rest. Come, Ludwig." He started to guide the man out of the room, who started to resist but gave in. Mikhail grabbed the two sandviches, and handed one to Ludwig. 

"You will eat in room. Then you will shower, then you will sleep. You are not being healthy. You need to be healthy for this team!"

Ludwig looked sadly up at him, nodding slowly. 

"Okay, Mishka."

Misha smiled, as the two entered their room again- the doctor sat on his freshly-made bed and began to eat, looking rather starved. Misha sat across from him and watched him for a moment.

"Ludwig, do you know what that means?"

Ludwig raised an eyebrow at him,

"Vhat?"

"When you call me, Mishka. Do you know what it means?"

Ludwig swallowed his bite, pausing his meal to answer;

"Ehm. No. Sometimes it is hard for me to say 'Misha", so I mess up. Vhat does it mean?" He paused, "Not something horrible, yes?"

Misha smirked at him, and shook his head.

"Nyet. Is nickname for Misha- but, it is a lovers nickname. It means 'little bear'. You keep calling me, 'little bear. As if you were my lover."

Ludwig's mouth fell open, and his face turned an impressive shade of red in just mere seconds.

"NO. MISHA?! VHY DID YOU NOT TELL ME! This is awful. Do not speak to me again. Oh mein gott, Misha!" He buried his head in his hands and groaned. "I am so sawry if it made you uncomfortable! I vill not make mistake again, I am so- so sawry."

Misha laughed loudly at his reaction, but spoke very gently to the embarrassed man;

"Not mad at you, not uncomfortable.."

He smirked villainously;

"Doktor can call me 'little bear' if he wants. Already has been."

Ludwig snapped up furiously, throwing the nearest object at Misha (his pillow). Misha caught the pillow, and threw it back harder, laughing again.

"NEIN. Leave me be.. I am going to take shower... you go to bed, Mikhail! Agh!"

He sounded mad, but as he made his way out of the room- Misha saw him smiling. 

Misha settled into bed smugly, he was happy he got to help the man- and feed him. Tomorrow he would show Ludwig how good he is at fighting, and they would win again! He was very happy.

He really, really- liked his roommate.

Chapter Text

Like a routine, Ludwig woke to someone shaking him lightly. A large hand was placed on his back shaking him, and Ludwig shivered from the warm touch. He pushed Misha's hand away and stretched dramatically. Ludwig heard his roommate laugh softly and step back from his bed.

Ludwig sat up, and blinked wearily at the table across from the room- like he had been doing for the past few days, Misha had fed his birds for him. Ludwig reached for his glasses and put them on, his roommate was watching his birds adoringly. He was already dressed, and in uniform.

Ludwig stood up, stretching his back and arms- creating a ripple of pops down his spine. He pulled on his white collared shirt, socks and trousers. He stood in front of the mirror, combing his fingers through his hair- and glanced at Misha who was peeking at him. 

"How are you, Misha?"

"Hm. I am good. Excited for day." 

Ludwig smiled and focused his eyes back on his hair, deliberately curling a curl of hair on his forehead. He smoothed his hair down on the sides and combed out the nest of hair that had formed in his sleep. Archimedes fluttered over, landing on his shoulder. Ludwig paused his routine; allowing the bird to rub against the brisles of the comb. Ludwig gently held the bird, and cooed lovingly as he combed the feathers on his head. 

"Oh. Look how niedlich du are. So handsome, very handsome bird. Now leave me, I need to get ready. You are distracting me. Go attack Misha!" He tossed the freshly-combed bird to Misha, who caught him carefully. 

"..It ees so interesting how leetle bird trusts you like this. I don't think anything ever has trusted me like this. Just get thrown around."

Ludwig pulled on his suspenders and vest- thinking deeply.

"Hm. I don't know if you have noticed but you have been throwing me around for the last few weeks, und I am trusting you to do so- Ja? Don't be so mean to yourself."

He sat on his bed and leaned down to pull on his boots;

"You always have nice things to say, Doktor- I.. I like talking to you. Even if it is meaningless." Misha paused self-consciously, "Misha is glad you are my roommate, and my friend.. and my team. We are a team."

Ludwig sat up, unable to stop himself from smiling fondly at the man, who was rubbing his neck- avoiding eye contact with the other. He stood up, and half-hugged Misha;

"Me too, Mikhail, very- very much.. Are you ready to go?"

The other nodded, letting the embrace end. Misha put a hand on his lower back, and guided him out of the room- this touch caused his face to feel rather warm. Ludwig moved slightly to break the contact- but nodded reassuringly at the other.

In the common-room they were greeted by chaos. The whole team had already gathered, and the pair was greeted by a few of the other men. The battle was starting in a few minutes, and Misha slinked off the the kitchen to get food. Ludwig sat on the couch beside Pyro, who offered him a mug of coffee. Ludwig accepted graciously, and sipped on it lightly. 

After a couple minutes of small talk, the woman's voice rang throughout the base- calling the team to attention.

3..

"STAND UP STRAIGHT, MAGGOTS! LET'S DO OUR BEST.." 

2..

1..

"FOR AMERICA!" Solider yelled, running into the now-open field- laughing manically. Ludwig sighed and got to work, trailing Heavy.

For the doctor, the battlefield calculated chaos. He shot an needle into the Scout as he zipped past, earning him a thumbs up. 

He dodged a stray shotgun firing, ducking behind a building to check on anyone around him.

Demoman was shot, but Medic healed it instantly with the Medi-Gun. Demoman thanked him drunkenly, before instantly getting blown up. Ludwig winced and continued sprinting-

He quickly shot Pyro, and noticed a blur of BLU behind the other;

"SPY, PYRO BEHIND YOU!"

Pyro spun around, and lit his flamethrower- setting the other man ablaze instantly. The BLU spy ran around screaming, trying to escape- but Ludwig got to him before he could run. He slashed his throat with his bone-saw, and hit him over the head with the Medi-Gun. The man crumpled to the ground lifeless.

The Medic continued running, until he heard familiar yelling- Heavy.

Gunshots erupted from behind a building, and the doctor rushed in. Misha was facing off with his BLU counterpart, along with the BLU Medic. He was bleeding from multiple wounds.

Ludwig charged in, aiming his Medi-Gun at the mans back.

He flipped the switch, buffing the other man red.

He watched from behind as he killed the BLU Medic, laughing wildly;

"ATLEAST MY DOKTOR IS STILL ALIVE!"  Misha roared in, (if Ludwig was being honest), a rather attractive way. 

The BLU Heavy yelped, and picked up the body of his Medic- trying to escape.

He did not. 

They had won again, by a pinch.

There was an apparent face-off between the two Scouts, as the timer came to an end. Scout was excitedly recalling the story to his team, as they all celebrated in the commonroom.

Demoman had brought a few cases of his 'Scrumpy' from his room- and everyone was drinking; expect for Pyro. Engineer whipped up some sort of 'Milkshake" for them. They sat near Scout, watching the man talk with excitement. Even Spy was there, correcting some of Scout's exaggerated tales. Solider and Demoman were in the kitchen, talking loudly about the day- both incredibly drunk. The Scrumpy was strong, much more strong than anything he'd had before.  

Ludwig was very, very drunk, and wasn't too keen on stopping. It was his reward, for victory! Why would he stop?

Over the course of the evening- he and Misha had been rather close. Misha wasn't drinking very much, and was mostly listening to the stories. The man was being clingy with Ludwig, but he didn't mind very much. It could be worse.. The man kept glancing at him, which weirded Ludwig out. He wasn't in a state of mind to bring it up though, instead choosing to focus on the mans eyes whenever he caught him staring. They were sat on the couch, and Ludwig was yabbering to him in broken English about Germany, and his ideas for surgeries. 

Ludwig continued to drink.

Maybe a bit too much.

...
 

Chapter Text

Misha was a worrier. He had always been. 

And now, staring down at the extremely intoxicated man sat next to him- he was very worried. Ludwig was speaking to him in broken English and German, he just nodded along and tried to inch the doctors bottle away from his reach. Ludwig's hair was disheveled, and his shirt was unbuttoned with the red tie loosened. If he wasn't so drunk with unfocused eyes and slurred speech Misha would've appreciated the other's handsomeness. He had always stood out to Misha, even since meeting, he was just so different from anyone Mikhail had ever met; in the best way possible. Ludwig was still yammering, but he grabbed Misha's hand and traced his palm with careful fingers, causing the other one to shiver and glance around nervously at the others. He didn't mind but he wanted to make sure no one else was looking. 

"Ohoh, did I tell you about vhen I vent to palm-reader in Deutschland?.." He scooted closer on the couch, gazing up at the man. His normally piercing eyes were full of stars, and Misha could've seen a galaxy in them. 

Misha shook his head trying not to pay attention to his accelerating heartrate.

"Vell, sie sagte that I had many death in my path! How incorrect she vas, I prove her wrong by standing here today- Ja? Anyvay, she also told me zhat I vould have a 'long happy marriage' vhich sie vas ALSO wrong about- it iz sad joke but true, I belief I vas divorced many months before going to see her- so she must have been a quack.." He explained drunkenly, giggling softly at the recollection

Misha nodded with the story, debating in his head. This was the first time Ludwig had brought up his wife after his first confession.

Maybe he was thinking too much into the story, but Ludwig also did have a lot of death in his path. He had seen death, had even killed, a number of times since joining the mercenaries (actually, maybe even before.) Could this mean she was right about the other stuff too? 

Ludwig was still stroking his hand, taking swigs of the Scrumpy- Misha raised his hand and covered Ludwig's mouth;

"Nyet, Doktor. Will be sick in morning, do not want to deal with sickness." This was a lie. He would deal with sickness for the man any day, happily. 

Ludwig looked at him defiantly, mumbling through his hand;

"Put bottle down and you can talk. Will not have you being 'over-hung' or whatever." 

Ludwig rolled his eyes, and put the bottle down- Misha kept his hand there for a few seconds for good measure, but something touched his palm- something wet-

"EW! DOKTOR?!  You lick me, what the hell?!" He dramatically wiped his hand down the doctors shirt, on his shoulder and chest to get the saliva off. Ludwig laughed manically- causing Pyro to look over to him with concern. Ludwig waved him off. 

"I told you, Mishka- I don't need babyzitter.. I am not a baby.."

Misha frowned jokingly and crossed his arms.

"You lick me, and you say you are not baby. These are baby activities, Doktor. You leetle man." 

"Oh meine gott, just because you are.. vell, a giant.. doesn't make me little."

"Oh, you hurt feelings.. calling me fat.."

"Nein, now you are being baby. You are giant, but you are handsome. Not fat, well built. Handsommee giant." Ludwig slurred in a dead-serious tone

Mikhail felt his face warm up and he tried his best not to smile, or to point out the fact that Ludwig was the most handsome man he had ever seen. He turned the other way and made a gruff noise. A few people were still sat, but Scout and Pyro had left- and Engineer was waving his goodbyes. 

"Come, Ludwig. Let us go to bed. Ees late." He stood up, and offered his hand to Ludwig. The man took it graciously, but still swayed dangerously. He smiled crookedly up at Misha.

The pair waved their goodbyes, with Misha's arm firmly around Ludwig's shoulder- steadying him gently.

The two men walked down the corridor, but Ludwig paused at one of the large windows. Misha mirrored this, watching as the man gazed outside. It was a thunderstorm, and every so often the otherwise empty corridor would be illuminated by a flash of light. They were silent for a couple minutes, both staring out the window. Ludwig opened his mouth, but paused, deep in thought.

"..You know. Vhen I got here- vas vorried I vould meet no one nice. Vas worried I vould hate everyone, and zhey vould hate me too- vould think I vas Nazi.."

Misha nodded silently, not sure of where this was going-

"But. Hm. I vas vrong. I had no reason to be vorried." He held both of Misha's hands, and turned so they were standing only a few feet apart. Misha couldn't stop himself from being trapped in the drunk mans gaze. 

"Mishka, I- hehe.. ehm- Vell I really did mean it vhen I say you are handsome.. you- ah, you are most.. handsome man I have ever seen. But you are also most wunderbar person in zhe world.. I vould kill.. if it meant ve stay together. I.. I do love you, Mishka. Do you understand?"

Misha nodded, he could hear his own heartbeat now. The doctor wasn't one for emotions sober, but now as he stood here spilling them-

Misha swore he fell in love. Maybe he had always been, but in this moment he would have admitted it if asked. 

"Doktor, I would too. Would kill all for you, if it meant- you are safe- I w--"

All in a second, the gap between them was closed. Ludwig had grabbed his shirt collar, and was standing on his tip-toes- to press his lip's against the others. Ludwig kissed him. It was a drunken, sloppy, perfect kiss.

Lightning flashed. 

Misha was is shock, he couldn't move- his thoughts were swirling indistinguishably. His heart threatened to beat right out of his chest. He put his hands around the mans waist for a moment- and kissed the man back for a few seconds- before realizing what he was doing. With considerable self control he gently pushed the other off of him, and held his hand- unable to stop himself from smiling dorkily. Ludwig looked at him, smiling in an extremely lovable way- but swayed where he stood. It took everything in Misha to not scoop the man up in his arms- but that would be irresponsible with the mans current state. His head was swirling.

"Come, my Doktor. You need to go to bed."

Ludwig nodded, allowing Misha to assist him with brushing his teeth in the washroom, and eventually with unbuttoning the rest of his shirt in the pairs room. Ludwig changed into boxers, and hobbled over to hug Misha. He was silent, but his eyes were full of emotion. Misha hugged him back tightly, not saying a word. After a few moments of this, he led Ludwig to the man's bed. Ludwig crawled in, whispering a goodnight to his roommate. Misha pulled a blanket up to cover him, whispering a Russian goodnight to the other. Ludwig almost immediately fell asleep.

Misha changed his own clothes, before laying down in his own bed- staring at the ceiling. Misha was very, very red. His heart was fast- too fast. This was not normal feelings.

This was love. Misha was in love. Misha was in love with a maniac doctor. He was a homosexual, the kiss felt so right. There was no other feasible explanation; 

Misha was stupid in love with Ludwig. 

Chapter Text

Ludwig woke up to the sound of his birds. He opened his eyes and winced immediately, slapping a palm to his forehead. He had a painful headache. He sat up in the bed, swinging his legs off the side. The sun wasn't even risen yet, he figured it was much earlier than his normal. 
Ludwig's entire body ached, but most painfully his head- he was so thirsty, and there was this weird feeling in the back of his head. Ludwig stood up shakily and threw on a bathrobe. He stumbled out of the room to head to the washroom- it was closer than the kitchen and he needed water. He felt like he was going to die without water. The mans muscles protested as he walked causing him to wince a few times on the trip.

Ludwig turned on one of the sinks and cupped his hands underneath- drinking gratefully. The cold water made his head feel better already, and he pressed a now-cold hand against his neck- gazing into the mirror. 

"Oh my."

He looked rough. He had eye bags deeper than the Mariana Trench and his hair was sticking up in ever which way. He tried smoothing his hair, as he recalled the previous night. 

The team had all drank together. Demoman offered him Scrumpy and he kept saying yes. He drank way too much, obviously. Misha stopped him, and walked him to the hall.

To the hall. 

It was a thunderstorm.

He kissed him. 

Ludwig had made the biggest mistake in his life. 

The man felt his heart shatter in his chest, and he stumbled back from the mirror- he didn't recognize himself anymore. He couldn't control his tears, they just spilled out. He sobbed silently, sitting against the washroom wall. His hands clenched his hair, pulling it roughly. Why, why, WHY did his drunken mind have to ruin the only good thing here- his only friend. He confessed to him, he ruined the chance of any friendship. He would've hidden his emotions, would've hidden them for decades if it meant he and Misha could be close- watching the man get married would have been less painful than this- he was distraught. He took advantage of the man, his only friend. He was a faggot and he took advantage of his only friend. Ludwig couldn't take it back- but he would've done anything. 

Ludwig stared down at his hands, clenching them into fists so hard bloody crescents formed from his nails. He was full of rage, and sadness. Ludwig stood up and wiped his eyes. 

He wasn't going to let himself hurt Misha again. It wasn't fair. 

The man started back to his room, and silently entered- leaving the door open. Ludwig didn't dare look at the sleeping Misha.

He grabbed the large birdcage and clicked his tongue to get the flock to flutter into it as he packed. He packed as many clothes into a small suitcase he could. He would eventually have to come back for more but no matter. He grabbed his pillow and a blanket. Ludwig snapped the birdcage shut, the only dove out was Archimedes- who landed on his shoulder silently. The bird knew something was off. 

Ludwig turned briskly, leaving the room as quiet as he came- shutting the door behind him. 

He made his way to his office, and locked the doors. He sat his stuff down, and checked the time on the clock. It was around four- which meant his team would be waking in a couple hours. This gave Ludwig time to himself. He freed his birds, and glanced around the room- everything seemed filthy- everywhere he looked reminded him of Mikhail. Especially the operating table.

He marched over, and flipped it. Spilling medical devices everywhere, starting to sob again. He wheeled around- and tore his poster of Misha's heart and bone scans from his wall. He ripped them to shreds- knocking into chairs and kicking them every which way. His birds were cooing loudly- which made him more overstimulated than not-

"OH be QUIET! BITTE!" He screamed, shooing them away from his desk. He ran a sweeping arm over the surface of the desk, clearing everything that was on it onto the floor. He deserved this. He deserved to have a horrible, messy lab. He deserved all the hurt and pain in the world. He slammed is head backwards- into the cabinate, crying out as he bit his own tongue from the impact. The taste of iron filled his mouth. He opened his drawers, throwing files everywhere- until he got to his own. He opened it, for the first time. He read his diagnoses, 

Minor Brain damage

Lunatic

Homosexual

He growled, and tore it to shreds. He lit it on fire, he stomped on the papers, he threw them everywhere- but he knew this wouldn't change anything. It was the truth, it was the worst truth. In his rage, he barely heard the knock at the door.

He froze.

"VHAT?!" 

A mumbled reply came from outside;

"Jeez Doc! Chill, it's just me. Scout?! I was-"

Ludwig angrily swung open the door. Looking down at the man in front of him. Ludwig was still in his bathrobe, and apparently looked disheveled still based on how the Scout stared at him.

"Jeez- you had a rough night? You and your boyfriend break up?" 

Ludwig was furious at the mans prodding- trying his best to shoot him with his eyes;

"What do you vant, Scout."

"I was just hoping to get sum meds or somthin' for my hangover- my head really freakin' hurts. It's drivin' me nuts."

Ludwig didn't say anything, just turned into his office and walked briskly towards the medicine cabinet. He pulled out a bottle of painkillers, and took two pills out. Scout peered cautiously into the room, his eyes wandering over every broken and torn apart object. He surprisingly kept his mouth shut, just looking mildly horrified at the state of both the room and doctor. 

Ludwig handed him the pills, along with a small cup of water. 

"If you need more, come see me in- six hours. They vill have worn off by then. Is that all?"

Scout eagerly took the pills, and nodded.

"Sure man. Are you- like.. are you doing good, Doc? You seem- I don't know. You need to talk about anything?" 

Ludwig shook his head quietly, tears threatened him again but he blinked them off. 

"Alright- uh- thanks Boss. If you change your mind we can talk, or y'know I can get Engi or Heavy or someone. Oh and, also- I'm supposed to tell you. Battle is canceled 'cause BLU base is flooded from the storm. Heard it from Miss Pauling."

"Ah, Danke, Scout. See you soon."

Scout nodded and walked quickly down the hall, glancing back at the Doctor a few times. 

Ludwig sighed and locked the doors again, his anger had exhausted him. He sat at his desk and put his head in his hands- he expelled all his anger and now he needed to deal with the harder emotions.

The Doctor began to cry again, this time- not so silent.

Ludwig sobbed, and choked. Reliving the memory painfully.

Heavy POV

Misha was startled awake by a sharp knock on his room's door. He sprung up, looking for Ludwig- hoping the sound didn't wake the other up. He was confused when he saw the empty room. But, maybe this was Ludwig coming back in. He rubbed his eyes and made his way to the door, opening it hesitantly.

It was not Ludwig, Misha grimaced as he saw the baby man before him. It was Scout. The man looked, different than usual. Misha wished he had put on more clothes. 

"What does Scout want?"

"Hey, Heavy- uh. I don't know why- or like.. how to bring this up-" He glanced around awkwardly, trying not to stare at Misha's bare torso. "I think the Medic's gone crazy." 

Misha's blood ran cold, 

"What does Scout mean?!"

"Uh- well, I went to 'im for pain meds 'cuz I have a killer headache. He opened the door and he looked- like- he had just fought a bear.. his eyes were all red and watery and his hair was fucked up- an' I looked into his room.. there was shit everywhere- like broken shit. It looked like he had flipped tables and broken stuff on purpose. I asked him if he wanted me to get anyone but he didn't want me too." He paused, and glanced down the hall; "Don't tell him I told you. I'm fuckin' scared of that dude." 

Misha darkened while the Scout recalled the story- nodding along. 

"Will not. Thank you, Scout. I will take care of it."

Scout nodded and gave him a thumbs up, glancing down the hall one more time for good measure- before hurriedly marching off.

Misha turned into the room in a panic, now taking the time to study the state. All of the birds were gone, and their cage. Ludwig's bed was missing a pillow and blanket- and his clothes were missing. Mikhail knew what happened. Deep in his gut he knew what was going on. He needed to stop any misconception as fast as he could. 

He pulled on more proper clothes, and raced down the hallway. 

Approaching the double-doors of the lab, he paused. Pressing his ear against the door, inside- he heard heart-shattering sobs. He heard choking, and coughing. He needed to get into the room. 

He tried the doorknob, but it was locked. He knocked on the door loudly and desperately. 

"Vhat do you vant?!" 

Ludwig's voice cracked painfully through the door, causing Misha to become even more anxious-

"Ludwig, it ees Misha. Please, please open door."

There was silence, horrible silence. No one came to the door.

"Please, Doktor. Please let me in."

...

"If you do not let me in I will break this door, Ludwig you kno--"

The doors swung open to reveal Ludwig and his room- Scout didn't lie. Ludwig looked sickly. Misha stepped towards him, mouth agape slightly- but Ludwig stepped back. His face was wet, and his eyes were bloodshot. Blood was smeared on his mouth. Misha wanted to help him, to wash him, to hold him carefully. The man had the saddest eyes Mikhail had seen in a long time.

"Ludwig.."

Tears ran down the others face and he shook his head violently, stepping back- he had a forced straight face- but his mouth twitched as he started to cry.

"I am so sawry. I am so so sawry, I am so sawry. I- That.. I did not mean to. I know I ruined it, don't pretend I didn't. I can't be around you I just- I am so sawry, Misha." 

Misha approached him again, kneeling down to him. He offered his hands but the other man shook. He looked scared, he looked defeated. This wasn't Misha's doctor. Ludwig backed against the desk, slumping down in front of it. 

"Oh, Ludwig. Did not ruin anything, please- let me hold you. You are bleeding, please let me help you."

Ludwig sobbed again, losing all control of his face- his nose was running and his eyes were leaking waterfalls.. this didn't matter to Misha. He wanted to make the doctor feel better. 

Suddenly, Archimedes landed on Misha's shoulder- cooing softly. Ludwig stared at the bird, not moving an inch. He turned his gaze back to Misha, and the bird again. Misha inched closer to him. Ludwig didn't move back. 

Mikhail held the man's shoulder, and sat beside him. Ludwig tried flinching away, but Misha's grip was steady. 

'Will not let Doktor continue to be sad. Please, Ludwig. It ees okay. Everything is fine."

"But Misha.. open your eyes. I've ruined zhis all- last night. I took advantage of you, you should have hit me- I- I don't vant to remember the full of it but you should have hit me."

"Do not say that. I would tear my insides out before hurting Doktor."

He pulled Ludwig closer again, turning his body to face him;

"If I wanted to fight your.. kiss- I would've. I did not. I- I was fine with it. Okay? Did not ruin anything, just- made me very.. red." 

Ludwig tried to smile, but just collapsed into Misha's open arms- starting to cry again. His arms became sticky from his tears. Archimedes cooed from Misha's shoulder, and pecked the man gently. Misha held the doctor, basically pulling the man into his lap. He let Ludwig bury his emotions into his chest- the man curled like a cat against the other. Misha's hands were on his back firmly. He had buried his chin into Ludwig's hair- but slowly raised it when he heard a noise by the doorway. It was the Scout and Pyro. They were peeking into the room nervously. Misha nodded at them, letting them know they had stayed their visit. Scout nodded back, and whispered something to Pyro, signaling the duo to leave. 

Misha's back ached, but he would stay like this for as long as the man wanted.

His shirt was wet, but it didn't matter. Nothing mattered. Only Ludwig.

He would protect this man. He would kill for him. 

Chapter Text

Humiliated.

Ludwig was humiliated.

Ludwig, who was supposed to be a brave battle-powerful doctor, was now crying on the floor into a mans chest he had accidently confessed love to. 

This felt awful. He was not a baby, what was possessing him to act like a baby. He couldn't move, he was paralyzed in Misha's arms- he hated this feeling. He did not deserve comfort like this, he needed to fight his own battles- he didn't need Misha. He hated being cared about, he was being patronized and he knew it. 

A thought in the back of his head sprang up, maybe he had just never been cared for until now- maybe this is what he needed... 

But, he was hurting- deeply, deeply hurting. He had betrayed himself and Misha. Mikhail said it didn't matter, but Ludwig knew deep down he was just saying that. The man was just being nice, he was being too nice.

Ludwig pulled his face from the mans shirt, cringing at the wet mark his tears had left. He looked up at Misha, who was resting his head on the table, eyes closed. Ludwig cleared his throat, and Misha blinked his eyes open.

"I- I am okay now, Danke. I am sawry you had to see that." 

Misha furrowed his brow;

"What does Doktor mean? Doesn't bother me."

Ludwig pushed against his arms, trying to stand up. He bit his tongue and tasted more blood. Misha immediately dropped his grip on the man, allowing him to get up. Ludwig tightened his robe and offered his hand to the other- who took it. Ludwig pulled him up and nodded, he had regained strict control of his face now- and was looking briskly around the room, avoiding any eye contact with Misha. He tried not to focus on how ridiculous he probably looked in his dishelveled bathrobe- but there was other problems now. 

"Ludwig, do you feel better?" Misha approached him, putting his hands on his shoulders- forcing him to make eye contact.

Ludwig nodded silently, hoping his eyes were masked enough for the white lie. He was full of anxiety, he didn't know what would happen now.

Who would he battle with? Would he have to change rooms, to avoid him doing anything else accidentally? What was Misha thinking? He supposed talking would help, but he didn't know how to bring it up- it didn't even really matter, these emotions were the least of their problems.. they were in war. But how could they be any help if they were coping with the fresh confession. Ludwig wished he never met the man. But did he? Everything was contradicting now. 

Misha squeezed his shoulder, bringing him out of his thoughts. 

"Talk to me."

Ludwig blinked, hoping to feel anything. To feel anger, to feel hatred toward the mans babying- but he couldn't. He hated him, but not Misha himself, just how he made him feel. He had never had this before, and was made uncomfortable by the mans care. 

"Mikhail- I don't know what to say. I don't- I don't know."

"You start by telling what made you so upset. Let's sit."

Ludwig complied, straightening two chairs across from each-other. Before either could even get a word in, they were interrupted.

"Gentleman?" A sneering voice asked from the doorway;

Ludwig snapped his head around, self conscious about his current attire. Spy walked into the room, observing the mess around him.

"What is going on?"

"Therapy." Misha stated, causing Ludwig to scoff. 

"Do you need anything, Herr Spy."

"Yes.. I was assigned to tell you zhat ze battle is cancelled- the idiot team flooded zheir bas---"

"Ja, ja I already heard from Scout. Do you need anything else?"

Spy sniffed angrily, lighting a cigarette and puffing-

"Well non, since you are oh-so informed. Have a good couples therapy.." 

Ludwig grimaced at him, but held his tongue as the man left. Misha looked at the retreating man with distain- but turned back to Ludwig when the doors swung shut. 

"Well, now you talk. What is on mind, what caused this?" He asked, gesturing around the room;

Ludwig rolled his eyes and scowled- this did feel like couples therapy.

"Vell, vhere should I start. Lets see; I accidently kissed my only friend, I cried in your arms like baby- TWICE now! I prioritized the wrong things in the middle of war. Does this make sense?!" 

Misha nodded calmly. Ludwig desired for the man to be mad, or upset- he wished the man would to anything to squash his feelings. 

"I see. Is this why you destroyed office? I am confused with that."

"I destroyed it because it reminded me of you- the only way it could be resolved was if I broke objects that were reminders of you- I guess." 

Misha looked at him,

"Ah. I see. Why is reminders a bad thing, am I a bad thing to you?"

Ludwig shook his head, these questions were too deep. He was tired.

"Nein. I just wish you'd be more blunt with me, tell me off for ki-- ah, last night." 

"But like I say, I don't need to tell you off. Nothing was wrong! I was okay, not upset.."

Ludwig felt like he aged thirty years, what was this man not getting?! He grimaced-

"Misha, please. You don't understand-- I- you are normal man. I am not a normal man. You should feel upset, feel angry- you should've hit me."

"You know I would never. Stop saying things like that." Misha glared at him, darkening- "I think it is you who is not understanding. I tell you, I did not mind. You say I am normal man, but say my reaction is not normal. You see how this is confusing?! I want to care for you like this. I want to be there for you. You make this harder than it should be." 

"Misha I- zhat is not vhat I meant-"

Misha stood up and pointed to himself- raising his voice;

"No, Doktor. Maybe it is me who is not normal man, maybe you are more normal than me. You have been in my head for days, not able to get you out. I kiss you back, Da? Do you remember that? Does Doktor still wish I hit him? Well how about this, Ludwig: I love you, I love you no matter what. More than I have ever loved any woman-- ah, does that sound 'normal'? Do you wish I was 'normal'?--Mikhail never wished you were 'normal'. Not once." 

Misha took a deep breath- attempting to regulate his angry, shaking, voice;

"I love you. You know I love you. Doktor makes it seem like he wishes I don't love him."

Ludwig's own voice was lost.

His own heart was cruel to him, it was beating painfully in his chest.

He couldn't- he didn't know how to think- his head and heart were pounding.

He looked at the towering man above him;

"... Please, leave my lab. Get out. Bitte." He fought back more tears.

He handled this all wrong. Ludwig should have never been so cruel to him. 

Misha nodded solemnly- swallowing his anger;

"I will wait for you. You know I will. Take your time, think your feelings. Come to me when ready, will not rush you." 

Ludwig nodded, watching as the man made it to the door.

"Mishka," He called, before he could exit completely;

"I love you."

Chapter Text

Misha was a strong man, an extremely strong man.

Physically, anyway- emotionally? Not so much.

He could put on a brave face, but right now he was a mess. 

Mikhail sat in his room, crouched over the small desk. He was working on yet another letter to his family- for his youngest sister Yana this time. The younger girl had always loved animals, and he had started a letter detailing his new found friendships with Ludwig's doves. The birds were little beings of light, and Misha rather missed their cooing in his room. It had been a few days since the pair had talked but the doctor hadn't moved back in. He wouldn't bring it up, but he missed the doctor. Misha would wait, he would wait for however long he needed. 

During the earlier battles he hadn't been being trailed by the Medic, but the man would politely appear whenever he called out. He didn't expect uber-charge that day, and whenever Ludwig charged Pyro he stood aside to let him work.

Even though the pair wasn't speaking Misha couldn't help but admire Ludwig- he gave the man space to work, but continued to admire him. He tried coping with his feelings, tried to diminish anything regarding, well, love he felt towards the man. It did not work. He couldn't help it, he was in love for probably the first time- and it was painful. It was poetically painful, but he couldn't help himself. Everything he wanted to do with him, to take care of him, and to love him. He wanted to introduce him to his family, and to learn everything about him- and discover more together. 

He hadn't been bringing the doctor food lately but the man had started to come out of his shell a little more, Misha often saw him hanging around the Engineer (which caused a twang of jealousy, but he pushed past that- being jealous was a baby feeling. He was no baby.) 

Mikhail put down his pencil and folded his newly-finished letter. He put it in an envelope and stashed it with his other writings carefully. He stood up, and made his way out of the room- he wanted to check if Ludwig had cleaned up his destroyed office yet. He peeked into the room, seeing that it was not cleaned- whatsoever. More papers were stacked on the desk, and Misha made his way over carefully, stepping over broken items. The paper and files were all written in German, with many redacted names and words. Mikhail looked around the room gruffly, taking in all the lab. It was a mess and bothered the man, Ludwig was torturing himself living like this! The man was very organized, this was very unlike him. 

A soft cooing came from above, and Archimedes fluttered down to Misha. The little bird rubbed his head against his cheek as he settled on his shoulder. 

"Ah, Leetle bird. Are you going to help me clean? You are tired of sleeping in the wreck?"

And so, with the help of the little bird, he began to clean.

There wasn't much he could do for the shattered objects or the broken chairs- but he straightened the usable ones across the room. After placing a shelf of books back (which took almost an hour, because he knew Ludwig liked them organized by colour-) he found a record player hidden in the mess. It was rather quiet in the room, and he was welcoming to the idea of music. He searched through the doctor's desk and found a drawer of records. They were all in German but he selected one that featured a few doves on the cover. Sweet violins and melodic voices rang through the empty room. Time seemed to fly as he cleaned, he was lost in his thoughts and the music- and hours passed. Just as he was about to finish polishing the last of the medical tools, Ludwig strode into the room.

The man looked around in surprise, his eyes landing on Misha. Mikhail looked at him nervously, and nodded quietly. Archimedes cooed lovingly at his master, and fluttered to greet him;

"Doktor, I was just finishing up. Apologies if this was unwelcome, didn't want you working in this mess. Ah--" He stumbled over to cut off the record player.

Ludwig's mouth was slightly open, and he walked towards the desk- running his hand on the freshly cleaned surface. 

"Misha, I- you shouldn't have. I don't know what to say- I, ah, danke. Danke very much. I vas planning to clean, but I could not bring myself to... This is the nicest thing anyone's ever has done- Thank you, danke. Misha-"

Misha nodded, stashing away the broom he used. Ludwig sat down in his chair, and stared at him- his emotion was unreadable. 

"I did not realize it has gotten so late. Sleep well doctor."

Ludwig's eyes flashed, he looked sad for a second, but quickly regained his mask of confidence;

"Ah, Okay. Sleep well, Misha."

Although he enjoyed the music in the office, it was stuck in his head. When he showered, when he redressed, when he ate dinner and brushed his teeth- he couldn't get it out of his head. It was infuriating, he didn't even know what was being said in the song- but the melody was buried into his skull like a leech.

 Just as he settled into bed with his book- the door cracked open. 

Ludwig stood in the doorframe, in his sleepwear and carrying his pillow and blanket. 

"Is it okay if I move back in...? I am aware it was er- rather dramatic of me to be sleeping in my office recently, but I understand if you vould prefer more time." 

Misha shook his head, 

'Nyet, Doktor! Of course, would be happy to have you back." 

Ludwig half-smiled, and laid his pillow down on his bed, smoothing his hair nervously. 

"Danke for cleaning my lab. I- appreciate it. It is hard for me to express zhat, but I truly do."

"Of course, Doktor."

...

"I missed you."

Misha nodded wisely, turning back to his book-

"Me too. Missed talking to you, and fighting as team.. Didn't think Ludwig would miss me, you seem very busy with Engineer." He allowed a sprinkle of sourness in his voice, and pretended not to see Ludwig frowning;

"Oh meine gott. Don't be ridiculous, I am friends with Engi- but.. closer with you. I miss you."

Misha looked down his nose at the man, and patted the empty space in his bed beside him;

"If you still miss me, be close to me. Always helps me."

Ludwig looked confused at him, rolling his eyes. Misha smirked and shut his book, setting it on the nightstand. 

"Oh well. Someday you realize it feels good- offer still stands, I sleep now- I hope you sleep better than office nights."

"Ehem- Okay. Sleep well, Misha."

Misha reached over to switch off his reading light, and flipped his back towards the man- sighing dramatically as he flopped on his pillow.

...

Nearly ten minutes later, he heard the floorboards creaking- and joints popping. A portion of his sheet was lifted from him gently, and his bed creaked as another body silently joined him in the bed.

Eventually, their breathing synced as they drifted closer together. He could hear the others heartbeat from behind him, and eventually those synced too. 

Neither of the men said a word. 

Chapter Text

Golden rays peeked through Ludwig's closed eyes through his eyelashes. 

Ludwig grumbled and tried to turn from the light, but found he was blocked by a large body behind him. He couldn't fully turn around so he settled for tucking his head into the crook of Misha's neck. The other adjusted his arm to allow the pair to be closer. Ludwig didn't know if Misha was awake but he hoped his wasn't, he didn't want the touch to end. He was warmer than he had been for years, and he felt peaceful-- but he didn't want to be seen in a domestic setting like this quite yet. Ludwig knew Misha wouldn't judge Ludwig... even still, it would ruin his reputation. 

Unfortunately Mikhail soon stirred, sighing as he woke up. Ludwig moved his head away from the mans neck to lay on his chest and watching him silently. He could only describe the man as- powerful. Even at his most vulnerable- He was a perfect specimen, he was crafted by god himself- and he was beautiful. Mikhail was the perfect solider. Golden light blurred the mans wrinkles and scars, but illuminated his eyelashes. Despite being bald, his eyelashes and eyebrows were full. Ludwig felt a twang of jealously, his own eyelashes were short and not nearly as filled as Mikhail's.

Ludwig loved the scar on Misha's hooked nose, and the scar that cut through his left eyebrow. The man had told him about his various scar-stories and these two were from separate bear-hunting escapades. The Medi-Gun didn't heal these as they were pre-RED, but Ludwig was pretty happy about that. He found them wildly attractive.

Misha blinked his eyes open, and glanced down to the man watching from his chest. He smiled tiredly and mumbled something indistinguishable, reaching a large warm hand over to place it on Ludwig's bare back. 

"..Guten Morgen, Herr Misha."

"Hello, Doktor. Did you sleep well?"

Ludwig shrugged and gazed into his eyes;

"Ja, I suppose. You make a pretty nice pillow."

Misha yawned, stretching his arms and legs shakily-

"What is that supposed to mean?"

Ludwig shrugged again, sitting up to swing his legs over the side of the bed but stopped by a firm grasp on his shoulder. He turned to look at the man, smiling stupidly. Unlike his own face, Mikhail looked deep in thought; frowning up at Ludwig and propping himself up;

"Doktor, are we just- moving on? We will not speak about.. this?"

Ludwig frowned and smoothed his hair;

"Vhat do you mean?"

"I, hm. How do I say. I want to be.. close to you- like this, Da? I want to keep doing this and being close... But is not professional."

Ludwig nodded again, staring sadly at him. He should have considered these risks more. They were coworkers, and were going to be on the same team for around five more years before there would ever be a chance to leave. They would have to keep anything they would have hidden, from their team. Most importantly though; from their boss. 

"Ah. Vell, that is very fair point.. I- I don't know, Misha."

Neither of the pair said a word, just gazed into each-others eyes for a few minutes. 

Ludwig wished he had met this wonderful man later in life, when they were both retired- when they could move in together away from anyone else. Where he could experiment on the perfect specimen, grow old, and eventually die together (or, better yet, find a way to live together forever.)

Misha sat up and gently cupped his face in one of his giant hands, pulling the two close to each other. The tip of their noses and their foreheads were resting against each other. Ludwig closed his eyes, and sighed. 

"Ludwig.. I feel with you we can still be young. We can have all the time in the world. No one needs to find out. I will wait for you, for as long as we need. I know we have met recently- compared to our before lives.. but I feel as though we have known forever."

"Me too. Me too, Mishka. Ve can love in secret, until we can love openly."

Misha planted a firm kiss against his forehead, nodding wisely.

Unfortunately Ludwig couldn't seem to keep his hands of Misha. On the battle-field, after-battle parties, and late at night- wherever Misha was he was shadowing him too. He spent less time hiding in his office and more time bonding with the team.
Weeks went by secret nights were spent together, a few arguments and more than a few secret affections on the battlefield.

Ludwig was over the moon.

It had been many years since he was in love, and he had fallen hard and fast for Misha- more so everyday.

Sometimes the rest of the team would look at the pair strangely; eyeing them as they embraced each-other on the common-room couch. 

Eventually questions were asked- started by Scout catching the pair, in a rather intimate setting inside the Doctors office, and running away shielding his eyes and yelping. Ludwig was distraught. Misha simply locked the doors, and the pair continued their night. 

Engineer often asked about Misha whenever the doctor was spending time with him, causing Ludwig to snap and confess after weeks of constant prodding. Engineer wasn't very surprised, and when Pyro eventually found out they drew a photo of Misha in a wedding dress. It was displayed proudly in the office. 

Spy was already aware, him and Sniper did not give a single fuck- the only problems they faced were with Scout and Solider. Luckily, both were pretty wary of Mikhail.

Demoman didn't ever notice, not even when he saw the pair secretly kissing behind a pile of rubble fresh after a battle-- he apparently had immediately forgotten about it (even though he had waved to the pair and greeted them, before marching right along.)

The doctor was finally at peace. Years of fighting his own battles, he had someone to help him fight now. 

He really, really adored the man. 

He would wait as long as he had to, to live with Mikhail. 

Ludwig would do anything.

Chapter Text

When the RED contracts finally ended, the duo kept their promises. After years of fighting, healing, and seeing each other get dismembered and killed: they were done.

It was over. The war ended a year early, and so did their contracts. A mysterious third brother had taken over the company employing them- the month before the war was over, but that didn't worry either of the two. They were done.

Done with fighting, done with injuries, and done with having to be separated at all. 

The men were both approaching their fifties, and there was no better time to finally relax.

The money they had made working for RED allowed for a decently comfortable life-style and they bought a decently sized hidden-away cabin in a cozy American town, giving their address to their team- and Miss Pauling. Only for emergencies. Ludwig figured they could also host RED for holidays, if they so desired.

The final day was bittersweet, saying farewell to the men they had grown so close with- (and, not so much.) Pyro had written them all goodbye letters, and was going to live with Engineer as their caretaker. Solider refused to disclose where he was going, but mentioned a wizard a few times.. Demoman was going straight back to his mothers home- he already had been set up with a new job in Scotland. Scout bought a mansion with his earnings, and Sniper was planning on living there for a couple months while he figured out what he was going to do, permanently. Spy was hardly seen that day, and had apparently left the moment he could. No one seemed to mind.

And, of course, everyone was aware of the Heavy and his Medics plans- Medic had a tendency to never shut up about it.

Unfortunately, they didn't get to say goodbye to Miss Pauling before their train arrived. She hadn't been seen for a couple days, but left them all goodbye letters- Scout, with the help of Engineer, had also left her a letter. He wouldn't admit what was in it.

As the train pulled up, Misha packed their bags into the large compartment provided- placing the now covered cage of doves on a seat. Ludwig hugged the team goodbye, for a final time. 

The two gazed out the window, at their last fleeting moments to see their team- waving wildly. And as the train left, a weight was lifted off their shoulders.

They  held each other, and cried; the emotion of the tears were a mix- but they flowed heavily. The doves cooed from the cage concernedly, but eventually fell asleep as the train chugged into the night.  

After so many years, they were free.

Nothing could go wrong.

(Maybe.)

Chapter Text

hello! This fic is still getting read, and i completely forgot about it until recently-- im truly sorry that to anyone that has read the non-revised fic. The grammar and spelling... hooh.

but, im gonna revamp it a ton and also redo the final chapter!

thanks so much for the support!!!!