[ Protect my city. That was the last thing Matt Murdock had whispered to him before they left him in that place of ruin to die. Try as he might, he couldn't erase the guilt that he felt. He knew it was much the same for Luke and Jessica. Time didn't seem to ease what he felt.
The first night, instead of giving in to meditation or grief, he'd taken to the streets. Most of the city seemed to know that it had lost something, but couldn't place exactly what. Any petty criminal foolish enough to be out and cross paths with Danny regretted the decision quickly. His temper got the better of him. Reckless and hot-headed as he usually is, it was amplified in his grief. Waking into the second day brought an acute awareness of loss to his senses, muddled and slowed his reflexes, and Colleen finally managed to coax him into a meditation session.
A brief amount of peace found him in the beginning of it. He tried to focus on the source of the turmoil in his mind. The pain of it, and to let it go. Something refused to budge, like a wall he couldn't push past. He felt cold like the bite of the weather outside of the apartment though he knew it was warm enough where he sat. The muffled sound of boats, and water. He could smell ash and taste blood.
He tried to dismiss the feelings. To push them out of his present focus, but they grew even stronger. It was a gasp in pain that suddenly had him jolting out of his meditation, and stumbling to his feet. He heard stories about the joining of consciousness, but he'd never actually done it before. If this was what he thought it was then---
Danny ran for the door, grabbing a jacket and his shoes as Colleen called after him, and pulled the articles of clothing on as he went for the stairs. He couldn't wait to explain the situation. If he was right then Matt was already in dire straits, wounded and exposed. Defenseless. He headed out past Midland. Past the city blocks surrounding it that were sealed off while cleanup took place.
He didn't know precisely where he was going, just followed the feeling like a beacon. He stopped when the sound of gravel and glass crunched underfoot. Heart hammering in his chest, he swallowed down his panic and doubt so he could reach out to that same feeling once more. Everything was frustratingly muddled! Focus.
[They had known one another briefly. Luke had his neighborhood, his sense of heart and connection there. Jessica had demons that needed to be reckoned with. Danny? Danny radiated light. That must have been why he was chosen by an ancient power. The goodness, the pureness of being which sounds like total bullshit except it's true. He was absolutely giving to the people at the restaurant, his name was on the building shamed. His very fist opened the door and the whole damn passage that connected Midland Circle to the desecrated grave of a dragon.
That's why he gripped to Danny. That was his request. It seemed like a small thing compared to what he was capable of.
Matt was just ready. There was no other way. Elektra would not be stopped. He would have to go down with her, or die trying. So that was to be the end. Though somehow as the brick, mortar, glass and everything else fell onto him breaking his body and falling through fire into filthy, muddy water. Everything was hurt and darkness. He wasn't awake enough to pray. And he certainly wasn't conscious enough to do much else than be taken by the currant and washed up on shore like the scattered garbage of the off shoot drain.
And he lay there. The warmth of sunlight wasn't enough to provide comfort, the suit melted to his skin and in some parts kept the swelling down if not sausaging him.
Help. God, please. Anyone. Help.
Matt knew he was alive because he could weep. Hell was about pain and punishment, though there as nothing and no one around him. Now and again he'd attempt to crawl further on the gravel. And as no surprise it was another discomfort. Exhaustion drove him to stillness and then finally un-restful sleep. Only for what felt like a few moments at a time. Should he even bother calling out for help again?]
H-help.
[His ribs were cracked if not broken. Breathing deeply made him aware of an unnatural shift. Matt fought down another sob. What use was it?]
[ After the events of Midland, and the revelations of the Hand and Chaste, Danny is uncertain of the light he radiates. He feels used, if he's being honest with himself. It's a thought he doesn't like to dwell on. He's not sure who he feels more used by. Maybe it's the fear of failing another as thoroughly as he failed the ancient city that drove him out to the shore of the Hudson river.
He doesn't want to think of the grave of the dragon and the intended use of something so sacred. It makes him sick.
Aching, crushing sadness envelopes him, but it doesn't feel as though it is his own. It's like a phantom pain, an echo, but it makes Danny draw his arms around himself protectively. The cold is something he doesn't feel like most, but the memory of it after the plane crash informs his motions. He closes his eyes again, reaching toward that feeling however hopeless it might be, and listens. ]
Matt!
[ He heard it. It was real and he heard it. His feet move before he realizes, and he's skidding over gravel and broken glass towards a sheet of white plastic billowing in the cold wind. He sees charred deep red and his heart leaps, but he stops himself from rolling him immediately. He can tell he's badly injured from a cursory glance. Moving him like this will only do more damage. He tries to soothe first. ]
[The missing business giant family was big, big news. Matt knew about it as a boy. Everyone knew about it. It was everywhere. And like that the Rand family was gone. A mystery and a Dateline special. Danny was a miracle in his own way. Not just the kung fu and the power...or whatever it was. He was brought back to New York for a purpose. Maybe this was to be some place new for him to hold dominion.
Dragons are bigger than devils.
Speaking again would be too much effort so he shuts his eyes, waiting to pass out again. Or to die. The ground vibrates. Footsteps? Vermin? A bird tried him what could have been a day or hours ago. Not dead, not yet. No meal here. The steps are too large, too weighted and steady. A person.
Moving hurts, and his eyes open and he makes a fist though he can't swing.]
...who's there-?
[He can't speak very loudly. God knows he can't hear and while it was a colossal hit he won't be struck into seeing.]
[ Danny's read the stories, and seen the videos. It's the only connection he has left with his parents outside of painful memories and an understandable fear of plane turbulence. He feels he has a purpose here, but now he feels adrift. Matt, though?
Matt is something solid to hold on to. He's alive, and that must mean something special. Something amazing.
He's no doctor, but he needs to be able to assess Matt better for what he's planning on doing. He can't move him like this. The wounded man simply won't be able to take it. He repeats himself a little louder when he notices blood coming from one ear. ]
Danny. It's Danny.
[ He apologizes profusely as he shifts to roll Matt onto his back. He cradles his head and the back of his neck. Gently lays him back as quickly and carefully as he's able. Now it's only a matter of focus. He's not sure how much this might take, and healing Colleen left him in a state. He knows more now than he did then. But he drags out his cell phone and sends a text in case with a rough location. ]
This is going to hurt, but I promise it'll be better after. Just hold on. [ He places his left hand on Matt's chest to keep him still, closes his eyes and his fist to focus his chi. ]
[Death is supposed to be permanent. Hell, there's no clear reason as to why Matt is alive. Not that he would call this much of living. Will he even remember it? The world is muffled, cold and he can sort of make out a name.
Manny? Randy?
Danny?
His thoughts sloush around slowly and when it registers he's moving is when he makes the most noise. A shocked cry and wincing. Mud and dirt have matted his hair. His face is a mess of microcuts, sludge and sediment there as well. Bouts of crying have cut the mess only to have more grime added.]
Please--I'm--no, no more.
[Of whatever is to come. No more. hurting. Though he has no idea what is going to happen next. It's like a shock wave passing through him and splintering into his skin, his bones, his blood. Then a slow, gathering warmth in the shards. He whimpers pathetically.]
[ It hurts him to see Matt in so much agony. He hopes that it will be more temporary after this. That he can ease at least a little of it, if not more. He was able to save Colleen from the clutches of death. If there is anything good to come of Bakuto at all, then let it be this.
It takes more focus to not stop at the soft cries of pain. He has to mentally block the pleas that fall from chapped, dirt-caked lips. He can't stop, not if this is going to work. I'm here. Hold on. He thinks as fiercely as he's able. Something brought them together again. Surely that same thing can relay a simple message. He has to believe it.
Danny focuses his chi, focuses on the parts of Matt that are broken and in agony. He senses the parts of him that are whole (few as they are), and uses them as a guide. There's no need to change those things, but he focuses on making whole the rest of him. Healing the broken parts and drawing away the pain. He groans, pain lancing through him, and squeezes his eyes shut more tightly. More time passes, and his hand starts to shake. ]
[He'll be grateful after. In this moment though it is just a fresh wash of hurts, awareness to some that went as a vague awareness or a distant throbbing. Now it's all coming up at once and met with those shards that feel like they're weaving into the cuts and tears. If he had enough strength in him he would grip at Danny, maybe push him off.
At some point his body feels like it is starting to hum as well as just...heat. Or is that what would have been a glow? Whatever it is, it's like the balled fist at his chest has forced something into him that can only be described as energy.
Chi?
Some Eastern ideology that Stick would use now and again. And also fling it in the face of Matt's Western education. He never knew it could do this. Or that it would feel like this. Breathing as hard as he is and as frequent he can feel the instant that ribs stop crackling and bending in ways they're not supposed to. It's amazing. It's terrifying.]
St-stop.
[Matt surprises himself by being able to make a feeble push at Danny. His mouth and nose are bleeding again and for the first time he smells not just blood but salt, rain and wet gravel. Oh God, he can smell! The blood in his ears crackles and he can make out the strained groans of Danny.]
[ As long as there is an after to be had. That's all Danny wants. He thought it was just his own grief refusing to be let go or quelled. Colleen might have thought the same, but he was never more glad to be proven wrong.
He's failed so much. Failed an entire city. Failed this haphazard team or family that they became out of necessity. He can't fail Matt. He won't. It's what's pushing and driving him now. Focus on what isn't right and fix it. Heal it. He can feel it working. Healing the broken man on the ground. ]
N--no. Not yet.
[ He can keep going. He needs to keep going. To make sure. Danny's whole frame is trembling, breath stuttering on the exhale, and he gives a bitten back noise of pain. The connection flickers sharply and stops, the glow of his fist subsiding in the morning light, and he slides away, dropping down to an elbow in the dirt heaps around them. His ears are ringing, and blood is rushing, making him dizzy.
He blinks to try and clear his vision, reaching out with trembling fingers to touch at Matt's face and assess the damage still there. Vision swimming as it is, he can't tell. Please let it be enough. He doesn't have anymore. ]
Okay! So, you took me to your favorite Thai place. I loved it, but I was thinking that I wanted to show you more of that. Well, a more authentic kind of fare.
[ Danny is very much like a child in a grown man's body. So much of that is a part of his personality. More of it still has to do with all manner of trauma he has endured thus far. From the plane crash to the daily beatings in K'un Lun to prepare them. It's informed his motions and thought processes and helped to mold the man he has become. Is still becoming.
It's also in part why he has a ridiculous grin on his face and a literal skip to his step. ]
And I thought it'd be pretty cool if you helped me shop for things at this little grocery I know that has just the best things. I'll cook. You can help if you want.
[ Yes, he's leaning on the arm of the couch to look up at him. He knows full well he interrupted a failing meditation to start. Sue him. Isn't that the saying? ]
[Head tilted and smile spread over his face. Coming over to Danny's has become a new habit. After work, before the streets. A chance to catch up and share notes. Though there are more elements at play here. Matt's eyes open and he blinks. Sitting in lotus position still.]
I'd say that--sounds terrific. And if you're trying to get me hungry before dinner that you're on the right track for that.
[Wouldn't you know that the Devil of Hell's Kitchen and the Immortal Iron Fist both have huge appetites. Danny calls it burning chi. Matt just knows that he can be a bottomless pit. The Thai food excursion was a two fold task. Matt wanted Thai and he wanted to show Danny things he enjoys. That's what you do when you care about someone. You share experiences.]
[ Danny has come to find that he not only enjoys Matt's company, but has come to look forward to these moments they get to spend together. It's not always so calm and collected. Neither are the nights. These hours they get to spend together in the interim are special. He doesn't plan on wasting any of that time. ]
Okay. Then we can head out now and pick out what I'm making us for dinner.
[ He pats the arm of the couch with both hands as he pushes himself up. This is exciting. It isn't often he gets to share these kinds of things with anyone. Or at least not anyone that might truly appreciate it outside of Colleen. He's humored, sure, by others, but it isn't the same.
The fact that they can both eat a substantial amount is also something that doesn't leave Danny feeling like an outsider. Even Luke is impressed by how much he puts away. And it is burning chi. Matt's just not tuned in to that way of thinking, and it's okay. They share some things in common, the differences are what make this relationship blossom in new and exciting ways. ]
[Authenticity of any ethnic food for Matthew has been more of whether or not the family is of that country of origin. That's about it. Born and raised in Hell's Kitchen, a melting pot just as much as the rest of New York. Danny has lived here yes, he never makes it seem like this corner of Matt's universe is insignificant, no. Which is why he is entertained and intrigued to see what he means.]
Okay then.
[Matt slowly stretches. Meditation session is over. Arms over head and he twists his waist to get a satisfying little crackle of joints.]
You already planned this out...
[At least as far as where he wants to go and what he wants to make. No judgments. He just smiles and goes to get his own shoes and coat.]
[ Danny still very much enjoys that aspect of New York. He's glad that some things don't change no matter what. So many people come to live in this place, and that makes it incredibly special. Intoxicating in a way that so few places can be, he imagines. ]
I planned on asking you if you'd join me, and the area of town where the stores are at. That's about the extent of my planning.
[ Honestly, he's not really a plan guy. He's a do guy. Colleen and Matt probably wish there was a little more planning involved in things. Danny goes to get his own shoes and coat to shrug on. It's not too cold yet and his endurance for temperature extremes is higher than most. ]
And there is a dish I'd like to make you, but I also hope you'll find things you just want to try.
[Types like Matt and Danny fit in. There's room for everyone. That is part of what it means to live in New York. You are a part of this whole.]
Okay. I can see that.
[Grinning from ear to ear. He steps closer to Danny and gives him a friendly shove. Matt steps back to avoid retaliation and to get his glasses. The cane will be next.]
[ They do. At least Danny does some of the time. Since he's come back to New York and his father's company, he's recognized more. The lack of anonymity is strange at times. Luckily he can still have a private life, and he's glad of that.
It gives him time to share with the people he really cares about. ]
Oh---hey!
[ The shove only rocks him slightly because he wasn't expecting it. He laughs after and swipes back only to miss. ]
I can tell you that it isn't donkey.
[ No, he's not joking. Can Matt hear that? He picks up on so much, and Danny is still curious to know more about that. ]
[Named or nameless, he's still a New Yorker. Matt can't imagine going from a place as big, as stimulating as the city to a rural, cold mountain top. The point of it all is that Danny is here now. There has always been a place for him. There always will be. It's got nothing to do with destiny or worthiness.]
You wouldn't really feed me donkey.
[Cane obtained and extended. Before going to the door he pauses.]
[ The news that Nelson, Murdock, and Page had finally managed to get their own offices again was amazing. Not just because it meant some semblance of peace and normalcy was coming back into their shared lives. It also meant that there was more space for the ridiculous amount of care packages that Danny and Colleen had put together to give out around town. Even Ward had pitched in to help.
Danny was on delivery duty, though. Thankfully, he'd scouted the office earlier in the week and new that they'd need a lot more space. It's why he rented the office space across the way for the time being so that they'd have a place to store it all.
He'd called Matt to warn him that they were bringing some things over, but he might have failed to mention how much. And this is just what he managed to carry in his arms. He had to knock on the door with his foot or risk dropping it all. ]
Uh, Matt? A little help? I can't reach the door.
[ At least Colleen is downstairs and not able to see this ridiculous sight at the moment. Danny is sure he can hear Karen laughing at the silhouette through the glass door. ]
[For all that has happened, Matt is humbled by how much his neighborhood has opened itself up to the law office. They did lose clients, yes. Though there were more than a handful of people that wanted their services again. The name was not wholly tarnished. Justice in some way prevailed through love and understanding. Matt's faith will be tested, and these small blessings remind him that nothing is lost when done with love. He loves his city and his neighborhood. And it loves him back.
It's the time of year for giving. And so the off hand comment of doing good works in the streets didn't surprise Matt at all when Danny had said something in--what was it? September? Just before Thanksgiving? At any rate hearing that he would be bringing along a few things wasn't a surprise.
What was a surprise was how many things.]
What....on earth.
[Not exactly something that needed to be answered. Matt holds the door open and his head tilts.]
[ It was trying for them all in different ways. Danny had been there for Matt during his healing and trials. Matt, in turn, had been there for him, even after he briefly left the city with Ward.
Now it was one of his favorite times of the year: Christmas. He was a child when he left New York with a very child-like way of viewing the holidays. His return hadn't changed it, and he loved it all the same.
Now he had the opportunity to help others and give back. He took it and ran with it.
His usual high tolerance to the cold was put a little to the test after his encounter with Davos that left him with a broken leg. It aches at inopportune moments. The change in the weather aggravates it. ]
I mentioned I was going to bring some stuff.
[ His laugh is muffled as he shuffles in sideways so that he doesn't hit anyone or anything. ]
But we can't fit it all in here without taking up room for you and your clients, so I rented the office across the hall for the rest of it.
[ Grinning like a loon when he sets down the wrapped gift baskets and a couple of boxes. He stands up and looks around the new office. It could use a couple of tweaks to help with the energy of it all, but overall it is a very good space. ]
Colleen and another of her students is going to help bring it up.
[ You heard right, the dojo is back in action as well. ]
[The dark times behind them has made the celebration even brighter. They have survived and bested the threats around them. What more could be asked for there? Though it seems that there is a lot more to the trappings of the season. Matt keeps the door open as far as he can until Danny is clear.]
This isn't some.... but I mean....
[Wow, Murdock. He isn't going to trun away donations. Matt lightly shakes his head, his smile is stretched from ear to ear. Danny Rand can and will take a situation up to eleven at any point.]
This is--this is so much.
[Far more than what the firm's budget could hold at the operation rate they have right now. It is still just the three of them and gaining clients doesn't mean money just pours in.
Karen is beaming both hands pressed to her mouth.]
Thank you, Danny. This is beyond generous.
[And he should know that it is just fantastic to have such a benefactor.]
[ It does brighten this more than it seems possible. Together they have all survived so much. To have people to share the good times with makes it even more special now. ]
Well, I wasn't sure how many clients you'd have come through. It seemed to be picking up the last time we talked, and a lot of people need a hand around the holidays.
[There are also gift cards. A lot of them. One of the students suggested it because they don't expire. It was worth standing in line for hours to get them all. Not to mention a few things to add to the small kitchenette area they have for the office. ]
Of course. You know I don't mind helping. I'm going to go back down for another load. Colleen should have the key with her for next door, and we'll organize it all later. We can go through what all we have.
[The trickle is becoming a stream. They'll be hiring on more people after the holidays that is certain.
Karen has got out her phone to do a video chat with Foggy to show him. Listening to her describe what she sees paired with the rustling down stairs as Colleen and the students hauling up more. Matt's heart feels so full.]
Anything I can do?
[Within the bounds of being Matt Murdock, the blind lawyer. Right now he is still just awash in what this will mean to so many families. The Otoyas, the Radomskis, the Flannigans...]
[ It's so good to hear that it's all coming back together. It's good that they can help already, but this will help them be able to do more. ]
Well, that depends on if you want to help get their stuff into the other office or organize what we picked out for you guys.
[ Yep, he went there. He totally went there. Also, Rand keeps completely up to date tech in their reach. So if a few donations that a law firm could use show up a little closer to Christmas? Well, Danny's playing that one close to his chest. ]
I'll be right back with that and you can answer then!
[They're only just starting up. To say it's amazing, Matt doesn't blush but he does turn his head a bit, bashful. Great things are head. He can feel it. Clearing his throat and adjusting his glasses to recuperate the next little disarming fact has him surprised again.]
What you--? Danny....Danny!
[They're friends. And this was more than enough. Matt is speechless. Shoulders lift and fall and he tries a few times to speak, rubbing his mouth and jawline. So much of what they'e done so far has come from loans. It's typical with a small business after all. And before he can say a goddamn thing worth anything, Danny is gone again.]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
(for fightlikehell. ) a stone on the path means the teas not ready.
The first night, instead of giving in to meditation or grief, he'd taken to the streets. Most of the city seemed to know that it had lost something, but couldn't place exactly what. Any petty criminal foolish enough to be out and cross paths with Danny regretted the decision quickly. His temper got the better of him. Reckless and hot-headed as he usually is, it was amplified in his grief. Waking into the second day brought an acute awareness of loss to his senses, muddled and slowed his reflexes, and Colleen finally managed to coax him into a meditation session.
A brief amount of peace found him in the beginning of it. He tried to focus on the source of the turmoil in his mind. The pain of it, and to let it go. Something refused to budge, like a wall he couldn't push past. He felt cold like the bite of the weather outside of the apartment though he knew it was warm enough where he sat. The muffled sound of boats, and water. He could smell ash and taste blood.
He tried to dismiss the feelings. To push them out of his present focus, but they grew even stronger. It was a gasp in pain that suddenly had him jolting out of his meditation, and stumbling to his feet. He heard stories about the joining of consciousness, but he'd never actually done it before. If this was what he thought it was then---
Danny ran for the door, grabbing a jacket and his shoes as Colleen called after him, and pulled the articles of clothing on as he went for the stairs. He couldn't wait to explain the situation. If he was right then Matt was already in dire straits, wounded and exposed. Defenseless. He headed out past Midland. Past the city blocks surrounding it that were sealed off while cleanup took place.
He didn't know precisely where he was going, just followed the feeling like a beacon. He stopped when the sound of gravel and glass crunched underfoot. Heart hammering in his chest, he swallowed down his panic and doubt so he could reach out to that same feeling once more. Everything was frustratingly muddled! Focus.
He whispered but didn't expect a response. ]
Matt, where are you?
no subject
That's why he gripped to Danny. That was his request. It seemed like a small thing compared to what he was capable of.
Matt was just ready. There was no other way. Elektra would not be stopped. He would have to go down with her, or die trying. So that was to be the end. Though somehow as the brick, mortar, glass and everything else fell onto him breaking his body and falling through fire into filthy, muddy water. Everything was hurt and darkness. He wasn't awake enough to pray. And he certainly wasn't conscious enough to do much else than be taken by the currant and washed up on shore like the scattered garbage of the off shoot drain.
And he lay there. The warmth of sunlight wasn't enough to provide comfort, the suit melted to his skin and in some parts kept the swelling down if not sausaging him.
Help. God, please. Anyone. Help.
Matt knew he was alive because he could weep. Hell was about pain and punishment, though there as nothing and no one around him. Now and again he'd attempt to crawl further on the gravel. And as no surprise it was another discomfort. Exhaustion drove him to stillness and then finally un-restful sleep. Only for what felt like a few moments at a time. Should he even bother calling out for help again?]
H-help.
[His ribs were cracked if not broken. Breathing deeply made him aware of an unnatural shift. Matt fought down another sob. What use was it?]
no subject
He doesn't want to think of the grave of the dragon and the intended use of something so sacred. It makes him sick.
Aching, crushing sadness envelopes him, but it doesn't feel as though it is his own. It's like a phantom pain, an echo, but it makes Danny draw his arms around himself protectively. The cold is something he doesn't feel like most, but the memory of it after the plane crash informs his motions. He closes his eyes again, reaching toward that feeling however hopeless it might be, and listens. ]
Matt!
[ He heard it. It was real and he heard it. His feet move before he realizes, and he's skidding over gravel and broken glass towards a sheet of white plastic billowing in the cold wind. He sees charred deep red and his heart leaps, but he stops himself from rolling him immediately. He can tell he's badly injured from a cursory glance. Moving him like this will only do more damage. He tries to soothe first. ]
I'm here with you. It's Danny. Matt, I'm here.
no subject
Dragons are bigger than devils.
Speaking again would be too much effort so he shuts his eyes, waiting to pass out again. Or to die. The ground vibrates. Footsteps? Vermin? A bird tried him what could have been a day or hours ago. Not dead, not yet. No meal here. The steps are too large, too weighted and steady. A person.
Moving hurts, and his eyes open and he makes a fist though he can't swing.]
...who's there-?
[He can't speak very loudly. God knows he can't hear and while it was a colossal hit he won't be struck into seeing.]
no subject
Matt is something solid to hold on to. He's alive, and that must mean something special. Something amazing.
He's no doctor, but he needs to be able to assess Matt better for what he's planning on doing. He can't move him like this. The wounded man simply won't be able to take it. He repeats himself a little louder when he notices blood coming from one ear. ]
Danny. It's Danny.
[ He apologizes profusely as he shifts to roll Matt onto his back. He cradles his head and the back of his neck. Gently lays him back as quickly and carefully as he's able. Now it's only a matter of focus. He's not sure how much this might take, and healing Colleen left him in a state. He knows more now than he did then. But he drags out his cell phone and sends a text in case with a rough location. ]
This is going to hurt, but I promise it'll be better after. Just hold on. [ He places his left hand on Matt's chest to keep him still, closes his eyes and his fist to focus his chi. ]
no subject
Manny? Randy?
Danny?
His thoughts sloush around slowly and when it registers he's moving is when he makes the most noise. A shocked cry and wincing. Mud and dirt have matted his hair. His face is a mess of microcuts, sludge and sediment there as well. Bouts of crying have cut the mess only to have more grime added.]
Please--I'm--no, no more.
[Of whatever is to come. No more. hurting. Though he has no idea what is going to happen next. It's like a shock wave passing through him and splintering into his skin, his bones, his blood. Then a slow, gathering warmth in the shards. He whimpers pathetically.]
no subject
It takes more focus to not stop at the soft cries of pain. He has to mentally block the pleas that fall from chapped, dirt-caked lips. He can't stop, not if this is going to work. I'm here. Hold on. He thinks as fiercely as he's able. Something brought them together again. Surely that same thing can relay a simple message. He has to believe it.
Danny focuses his chi, focuses on the parts of Matt that are broken and in agony. He senses the parts of him that are whole (few as they are), and uses them as a guide. There's no need to change those things, but he focuses on making whole the rest of him. Healing the broken parts and drawing away the pain. He groans, pain lancing through him, and squeezes his eyes shut more tightly. More time passes, and his hand starts to shake. ]
no subject
At some point his body feels like it is starting to hum as well as just...heat. Or is that what would have been a glow? Whatever it is, it's like the balled fist at his chest has forced something into him that can only be described as energy.
Chi?
Some Eastern ideology that Stick would use now and again. And also fling it in the face of Matt's Western education. He never knew it could do this. Or that it would feel like this. Breathing as hard as he is and as frequent he can feel the instant that ribs stop crackling and bending in ways they're not supposed to. It's amazing. It's terrifying.]
St-stop.
[Matt surprises himself by being able to make a feeble push at Danny. His mouth and nose are bleeding again and for the first time he smells not just blood but salt, rain and wet gravel. Oh God, he can smell! The blood in his ears crackles and he can make out the strained groans of Danny.]
no subject
He's failed so much. Failed an entire city. Failed this haphazard team or family that they became out of necessity. He can't fail Matt. He won't. It's what's pushing and driving him now. Focus on what isn't right and fix it. Heal it. He can feel it working. Healing the broken man on the ground. ]
N--no. Not yet.
[ He can keep going. He needs to keep going. To make sure. Danny's whole frame is trembling, breath stuttering on the exhale, and he gives a bitten back noise of pain. The connection flickers sharply and stops, the glow of his fist subsiding in the morning light, and he slides away, dropping down to an elbow in the dirt heaps around them. His ears are ringing, and blood is rushing, making him dizzy.
He blinks to try and clear his vision, reaching out with trembling fingers to touch at Matt's face and assess the damage still there. Vision swimming as it is, he can't tell. Please let it be enough. He doesn't have anymore. ]
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
( and a gentleness that comes not from the absence of violence but despite the abundance of it. )
[ Danny is very much like a child in a grown man's body. So much of that is a part of his personality. More of it still has to do with all manner of trauma he has endured thus far. From the plane crash to the daily beatings in K'un Lun to prepare them. It's informed his motions and thought processes and helped to mold the man he has become. Is still becoming.
It's also in part why he has a ridiculous grin on his face and a literal skip to his step. ]
And I thought it'd be pretty cool if you helped me shop for things at this little grocery I know that has just the best things. I'll cook. You can help if you want.
[ Yes, he's leaning on the arm of the couch to look up at him. He knows full well he interrupted a failing meditation to start. Sue him. Isn't that the saying? ]
What do you say?
no subject
[Head tilted and smile spread over his face. Coming over to Danny's has become a new habit. After work, before the streets. A chance to catch up and share notes. Though there are more elements at play here. Matt's eyes open and he blinks. Sitting in lotus position still.]
I'd say that--sounds terrific. And if you're trying to get me hungry before dinner that you're on the right track for that.
[Wouldn't you know that the Devil of Hell's Kitchen and the Immortal Iron Fist both have huge appetites. Danny calls it burning chi. Matt just knows that he can be a bottomless pit. The Thai food excursion was a two fold task. Matt wanted Thai and he wanted to show Danny things he enjoys. That's what you do when you care about someone. You share experiences.]
no subject
[ Danny has come to find that he not only enjoys Matt's company, but has come to look forward to these moments they get to spend together. It's not always so calm and collected. Neither are the nights. These hours they get to spend together in the interim are special. He doesn't plan on wasting any of that time. ]
Okay. Then we can head out now and pick out what I'm making us for dinner.
[ He pats the arm of the couch with both hands as he pushes himself up. This is exciting. It isn't often he gets to share these kinds of things with anyone. Or at least not anyone that might truly appreciate it outside of Colleen. He's humored, sure, by others, but it isn't the same.
The fact that they can both eat a substantial amount is also something that doesn't leave Danny feeling like an outsider. Even Luke is impressed by how much he puts away. And it is burning chi. Matt's just not tuned in to that way of thinking, and it's okay. They share some things in common, the differences are what make this relationship blossom in new and exciting ways. ]
I'll get my shoes.
no subject
Okay then.
[Matt slowly stretches. Meditation session is over. Arms over head and he twists his waist to get a satisfying little crackle of joints.]
You already planned this out...
[At least as far as where he wants to go and what he wants to make. No judgments. He just smiles and goes to get his own shoes and coat.]
no subject
I planned on asking you if you'd join me, and the area of town where the stores are at. That's about the extent of my planning.
[ Honestly, he's not really a plan guy. He's a do guy. Colleen and Matt probably wish there was a little more planning involved in things. Danny goes to get his own shoes and coat to shrug on. It's not too cold yet and his endurance for temperature extremes is higher than most. ]
And there is a dish I'd like to make you, but I also hope you'll find things you just want to try.
no subject
Okay. I can see that.
[Grinning from ear to ear. He steps closer to Danny and gives him a friendly shove. Matt steps back to avoid retaliation and to get his glasses. The cane will be next.]
Do I get any hints as to what it may be?
no subject
It gives him time to share with the people he really cares about. ]
Oh---hey!
[ The shove only rocks him slightly because he wasn't expecting it. He laughs after and swipes back only to miss. ]
I can tell you that it isn't donkey.
[ No, he's not joking. Can Matt hear that? He picks up on so much, and Danny is still curious to know more about that. ]
no subject
You wouldn't really feed me donkey.
[Cane obtained and extended. Before going to the door he pauses.]
...would you?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
( but there's a litany of dreams that happens somewhere in the middle. )
Danny was on delivery duty, though. Thankfully, he'd scouted the office earlier in the week and new that they'd need a lot more space. It's why he rented the office space across the way for the time being so that they'd have a place to store it all.
He'd called Matt to warn him that they were bringing some things over, but he might have failed to mention how much. And this is just what he managed to carry in his arms. He had to knock on the door with his foot or risk dropping it all. ]
Uh, Matt? A little help? I can't reach the door.
[ At least Colleen is downstairs and not able to see this ridiculous sight at the moment. Danny is sure he can hear Karen laughing at the silhouette through the glass door. ]
no subject
It's the time of year for giving. And so the off hand comment of doing good works in the streets didn't surprise Matt at all when Danny had said something in--what was it? September? Just before Thanksgiving? At any rate hearing that he would be bringing along a few things wasn't a surprise.
What was a surprise was how many things.]
What....on earth.
[Not exactly something that needed to be answered. Matt holds the door open and his head tilts.]
Are you moving in?
no subject
Now it was one of his favorite times of the year: Christmas. He was a child when he left New York with a very child-like way of viewing the holidays. His return hadn't changed it, and he loved it all the same.
Now he had the opportunity to help others and give back. He took it and ran with it.
His usual high tolerance to the cold was put a little to the test after his encounter with Davos that left him with a broken leg. It aches at inopportune moments. The change in the weather aggravates it. ]
I mentioned I was going to bring some stuff.
[ His laugh is muffled as he shuffles in sideways so that he doesn't hit anyone or anything. ]
But we can't fit it all in here without taking up room for you and your clients, so I rented the office across the hall for the rest of it.
[ Grinning like a loon when he sets down the wrapped gift baskets and a couple of boxes. He stands up and looks around the new office. It could use a couple of tweaks to help with the energy of it all, but overall it is a very good space. ]
Colleen and another of her students is going to help bring it up.
[ You heard right, the dojo is back in action as well. ]
no subject
This isn't some.... but I mean....
[Wow, Murdock. He isn't going to trun away donations. Matt lightly shakes his head, his smile is stretched from ear to ear. Danny Rand can and will take a situation up to eleven at any point.]
This is--this is so much.
[Far more than what the firm's budget could hold at the operation rate they have right now. It is still just the three of them and gaining clients doesn't mean money just pours in.
Karen is beaming both hands pressed to her mouth.]
Thank you, Danny. This is beyond generous.
[And he should know that it is just fantastic to have such a benefactor.]
no subject
Well, I wasn't sure how many clients you'd have come through. It seemed to be picking up the last time we talked, and a lot of people need a hand around the holidays.
[There are also gift cards. A lot of them. One of the students suggested it because they don't expire. It was worth standing in line for hours to get them all. Not to mention a few things to add to the small kitchenette area they have for the office. ]
Of course. You know I don't mind helping. I'm going to go back down for another load. Colleen should have the key with her for next door, and we'll organize it all later. We can go through what all we have.
no subject
[The trickle is becoming a stream. They'll be hiring on more people after the holidays that is certain.
Karen has got out her phone to do a video chat with Foggy to show him. Listening to her describe what she sees paired with the rustling down stairs as Colleen and the students hauling up more. Matt's heart feels so full.]
Anything I can do?
[Within the bounds of being Matt Murdock, the blind lawyer. Right now he is still just awash in what this will mean to so many families. The Otoyas, the Radomskis, the Flannigans...]
no subject
[ It's so good to hear that it's all coming back together. It's good that they can help already, but this will help them be able to do more. ]
Well, that depends on if you want to help get their stuff into the other office or organize what we picked out for you guys.
[ Yep, he went there. He totally went there. Also, Rand keeps completely up to date tech in their reach. So if a few donations that a law firm could use show up a little closer to Christmas? Well, Danny's playing that one close to his chest. ]
I'll be right back with that and you can answer then!
no subject
What you--? Danny....Danny!
[They're friends. And this was more than enough. Matt is speechless. Shoulders lift and fall and he tries a few times to speak, rubbing his mouth and jawline. So much of what they'e done so far has come from loans. It's typical with a small business after all. And before he can say a goddamn thing worth anything, Danny is gone again.]
...dammit.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)