Title: Sanctuary – Beneath The Dark
Summary: Doctor Helen Magnus and her team discover more than an Abnormal and things that go bump in the night when on the hunt in Seattle. A/U.
Pairings: H. Magnus & OFC, A. Magnus & W. Zimmerman.
Rating: M for Mature readers.
Disclaimer: No profit or copyright infringement intended during the writing of this story. All characters other than original remain the property of creator Damian Kindler, Sanctuary 1 Productions and Stage 3 Media. Please note that this tale features a relationship between two women and if that is not your cup of tea, then go make a coffee elsewhere.
A/N: Cheers to my splendid proof reader Wendy Woo and please remember this all takes place in an alternative universe, so I do not follow the story line of the actual series to the letter. It's called creative licence and I use it to bring back to life characters who may have fallen to the wayside on television. Now if I could only use it to inject a bucket load of cash to SyFy so the fifth season of Sanctuary could actually see the light of day!
Chapter 2
There was a bright light shining into Madison's closed eyes and she slowly prised her eyelids apart enough to take a look at her surroundings. Groaning loudly, she gripped down with both hands as a wave of excruciating agony shot through her torso and right leg. "Holy shit," she whispered.
Blue eyes came into frame above her face and spoke in a soothing British accent, "I've given you something for the pain, so just lie still and all will be well."
"Is Bobby okay and what about the woman being chased?" asked Madison in a croaky voice.
The reply came in a lulling tone, "They were equally knocked unconscious, but should make full recoveries."
"That's ... good ... news," Madison stuttered before succumbing to the effects of a sedative.
"Ashley, pass me the serum please," instructed the older woman who was wearing a crisp white lab coat and face mask.
"Sure mom, is she going to make it?"
"I've done all I can love, it's up to her now," came the concerned reply.
Ashley took a moment to examine the naked woman on the medical table before saying, "She certainly looks strong enough to give it a good try."
Casting her light blue eyes over her well-toned patient, Doctor Helen Magnus agreed with her daughter's assessment, "Yes she does, and she is going to need all her strength to fight this." She noted Ashley was still eyeing the Officer's sculptured and muscled form, "You having fun there?"
"Uhm, sorry mom, just admiring the physique," explained the blonde with a smirk. "She really is put together well."
For some unknown reason, Magnus blushed when she replied, "She certainly is. Now be a dear and go fetch your mum a cuppa, it's been a long night."
Ashley smiled at her parent, "At least we managed to stop a rampaging Abnormal."
Nodding, Magnus removed her mask, "Yes Ashley, but at what cost?"
"Time will tell," answered the blonde before leaving the room.
Helen Magnus reached for a nearby sheet and covered the Officer's naked form. Checking the monitors, the doctor made several notations on a medical chart before turning her attention to the covered body of the lion-like male on the table to her left.
-o-
Madison's eyes opened and she once again scanned her environment. It was obvious she was in some kind of medical facility, but it did not resemble any of the emergency rooms she was used to seeing in any of the Seattle hospitals she had frequented over the years.
Turning her head slowly to the left, she spotted several monitors and the back view of a tall, long dark haired woman wearing a white coat over black trousers and high heeled boots.
"Excuse me, where am I?" she finally asked in a dry, hoarse voice.
The woman turned around and Madison's breath caught in her throat. The stranger was simply breath takingly beautiful and as she approached, the blonde was struck by the deeply dimpled cheeks and sparkling blue eyes.
"Hello, my name is Doctor Helen Magnus."
Madison gulped, that inflection was beyond sensual and only added to her intrigue, "Uhm hello."
Helen placed a comforting hand on the patient's left shoulder, "How are you feeling?"
"Everything hurts, so which hospital am I in?"
The answer was delivered in a genteel manner, "You are in a private facility."
Panic started to settle in and Madison stuttered, "Par ... don?"
Smiling, Helen tried to reassure her, "I'll explain everything once your strength returns."
Gratified by the smile and calming voice, Madison probed, "Is this a dream or some kind of afterlife?"
With another splendid grin, Helen ran her fingers across Madison's clammy brow, "No, it's neither, just rest. You received some serious injuries and had quite the ordeal, and as such, require sleep. You need to allow your body to heal then we will discuss your condition."
Slightly bolstered, tiredness pulled at the blonde and she surrendered peaceably to the beckoning dark once more.
-o-
While seated behind the desk in her living room, Helen sipped on her cup of tea and enjoyed the flavour. She looked up when Will Zimmerman entered carrying a newspaper and frowning.
"It seems your patient is presumed dead," he announced with knotted brows while taking a seat in front of the elegant mahogany desk.
"Bloody hell," retorted a surprised doctor. "It's only been a week. That's a tad early to abandon all hope."
"It's assumed the mystery attacker took her and she wouldn't have survived her extensive injuries. There was a witness that stated he saw a black van race away from the scene."
"Damn," uttered a disappointed Helen. "I was hoping to have more time to deal with Officer Cross's disappearance and subsequent return."
"I don't envy you the task and I gather you will be speaking to her soon."
"I deduce that will be my next course of action Will. I'm going to have to explain some things to her and I'm certain she will be curious now that she is becoming more alert."
Helen's phone rang and she picked it up off the desk. "Yes Ashley," she answered while directing her attention to the monitor showing a view of the medical room.
"You better get down here to the Infirmary, your patient is awake again and not very happy," replied a harried Ashley.
"We are on our way." Helen looked at Will and reasoned, "Time appears to be up and I doubt Sergeant Cross is the kind of person that can be easily misled."
"I think you are right," agreed Will as he quickly followed Helen down the hall to the freight elevator.
They both stepped into the car when the door slid open and Helen pushed the button for the lower level. She tapped her left foot impatiently and was in two minds about revealing too much information to the attractive Police Officer while explaining her injuries as well as her whereabouts.
The lift stopped seconds later and the two doctors raced to the Medical Lab.
-o-
As the pair opened the door, their ears were assaulted by the loud crash of metal upon metal and their vision took in the sight of Ashley ducking and weaving in an attempt to avoid being struck by the various pieces of medical equipment being hurled in her direction by a naked and visibly upset blonde.
"SOMEONE BETTER TELL ME WHAT IS GOING ON AND WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED TO MY CLOTHES?" shouted Madison to the three strangers.
Will's mouth dropped open as he ogled the statuesque, fuming woman. He cringed as his eyes lowered to the three elongated wounds splayed diagonally across her chest and stomach. There was also a deep laceration to her left bicep and it was bleeding profusely.
Madison followed his blue eyes and seethed, "Hey buddy, you getting a good look. Shit, who are you people?" She picked up another item and a pair of surgical forceps was pitched at his head.
Will ducked out of the way in time as Helen pressed forward unperturbed.
"Don't come any closer Doctor or whoever you are," threatened Madison. She was pissed and wanted answers.
Ashley stood up from her crouched position behind the table and quipped, "All yours mom, I am out of here," The young blonde made a hasty retreat and never looked back.
Stopping her advance, Helen locked onto the distressed woman's feral blue eyes and serenely stated, "Officer Cross, no one here wants to hurt you. You have opened the wound on your arm, so please stop throwing things at us so I can attend to your injury."
Picking up the loose sheet off the bed, Will handed it to Helen, who in turn, held it out to the bewildered blonde and continued, "If you remain calm, I will explain your situation."
Madison openly pursed her lips in rage, "My situation! I was attacked by some kind of monster that was half lion half man and ended up here instead of hospital." Reaching for the offered covering, she wrapped it snugly around her torso, "Look, I'm sorry I lost the plot, but I'm hurting and am totally confused as to what is going on."
Helen stepped into the other woman's personal space and placed a consoling hand on her shoulder, "Sit down and let me look at your arm, you're bleeding badly. All I ask is for a little of your time then I will answer your questions.
Madison sat on a nearby chair and turned her eyes to her left bicep. The anger in her dark blue eyes abated, only to be replaced by tears, "I ... am ... sorry ... I'm just ... so confused."
Will pushed a trolley towards Helen and inquired, "What do you need Magnus?"
"A sterilisation and suture pack. Madison, I will need to restitch your wound, you've managed to pull them all out."
"Sorry, I'm not usually this irrational," stated the defeated and weary Officer.
"It's to be expected. You have been through quite the tribulation and your description of your attacker was precise, although we don't refer to them as monsters."
Will placed the requested items on the table while Helen stood to wash her hands at the sink then pull on a pair of latex gloves. Sitting down, she prepared Madison's wound. "Once I have finished, we can converse. You no doubt have questions about this place."
"Okay, but please tell me where I am."
"You are in my home. It is known as the Sanctuary."
With arched blonde brows, Madison questioned the doctor, "And just where is that?"
"We are just outside Old City approximately two and a half hours drive North of Seattle."
Madison grimaced when Helen injected a numbing agent, "So, I'm guessing that's somewhere near Vancouver and I remember hearing a helicopter."
"That is correct, I'll elucidate more soon, but for now, I need to close this wound quickly."
"Okay," replied Madison while turning her head to watch the doctor's procedure. "Obviously you are a real doctor then."
"I am and my learned colleague Will Zimmerman is a Forensic Psychologist who worked with the FBI and formerly with the Old City Police Department." The brunette worked swiftly and re-dressed the upper arm in minutes. "How are you feeling?"
"I'm so tired," answered Madison before glancing down to the right calf that was encased in yellow fibreglass. "I gather I broke my leg."
"Correct again," responded Helen with a sly grin.
Ashley returned to the room and Madison looked at her, "I apologise for tossing things at you."
"Apology accepted. I just wanted to let you know I'm off mom, catch you later, I have work to do."
"Ashley, team meeting in my office at two," announced Helen.
"Gotcha mom, come on Will, you can give me a hand."
"Are you okay with that Magnus?"
"I'm fine Will. I'll see you both later."
Madison tugged at the sheet covering her 34B-24-32 measurements and suddenly blushed, "Do you think I could have some clothes. I assume my shirt is a right off."
"You assume correctly Madison, but we did manage to salvage your trousers and equipment. I will find you some clothing in due course."
The blonde liked the way the doctor said her name and grinned, "Do you mind me asking how old Ashley is?"
Helen smiled and the dimples in her cheeks deepened, "I don't mind, she is twenty three."
Madison took a deep breath then cringed at the pain, "Twenty three? Shit, you must have been like twelve when you had her."
"It's a long story and I'm older than I appear."
"You're kidding me, you look around my age."
"I can assure you I am much older than your thirty five years, but we can discuss it at a more convenient time. I'd like to get you settled into one of the guest rooms first."
Madison reached out and touched Helen's left forearm, "Thank you for saving my life. When that thing attacked me, I thought I was a goner."
Blue eyes met blue, "You are welcome and I am happy to have you still with us." Helen stood and went to a storage shelf then handed Madison a set of pale blue surgical scrubs, "I'll leave you to dress then take you to your room."
"It's a little late for modesty Doctor," quipped Madison as she dropped the sheet and pulled on the trousers.
"Your underpants have been laundered and are in your room, but I'm afraid your bra was a casualty of your assault." The doctor retrieved a wheelchair from the far corner of the room, "You need to stay off your right leg. It was a bad break and this is the alternative for a short time."
Pulling down her top, Madison sat down and Helen wheeled her into the corridor towards the old-fashioned lift. "I'd like to call my partner and let him know I'm okay," said Madison softly.
"Of course, but it will have to wait until after we've had our chat."
"All right," agreed the blonde without argument.
-o-
Several minutes later, Helen pushed Madison into a large bedroom decorated with old Victorian furnishings. "I'll organise a meal for you, you must be hungry."
"I am," replied Madison while settling herself onto the side of the bed. "So how long was I out for?"
"You have been here for seven days."
"Shit, a week," responded the surprised Officer.
"You were severely injured and in and out of consciousness the entire time."
Madison scrutinised the room and smiled when she located her uniform trousers, briefs, badge and boots neatly stacked on top of an armchair situated near double doors leading to a balcony. She stood with the intention of inspecting her belongings but her legs gave out from under her and she tumbled towards the floor. Helen's strong arms around her midriff halted her descent, a shiver ran up the length of her spine, and she cringed.
The brunette assisted her to the end of the queen-sized bed, "Take it easy, today is the first time you've actually been up and about. Your recovery will be measured."
Madison turned her head and studied the attractive face smiling at her. There was no doubting Helen Magnus' beauty and Madison found herself drawn to her physically.
"Are you feeling better?" asked the English woman.
The blonde's head was saying a simple yes, but her mouth said, "Oh yeah, I'm feeling real good." A great blushing of her cheeks followed her statement.
It did not go unnoticed by Helen as she removed her hand from around Madison's right upper arm and cleared her throat, "Uhm, I'm glad to hear that. If you will excuse me, I'll go gather you some food."
"Thank you and I do appreciate your help."
Madison watched the other woman leave then thought, "Good god, that woman is stunning and completely out of my league."
-o-
Once Helen was outside the door, she leaned her back up against the hallway wall and groaned softly, "Heavens above, what is wrong with me?"
Henry Foss, Sanctuary's resident computer science expert and weapons designer, stepped into view, "You taking to me Doc?"
The doctor was flustered by her reaction to Madison and totally embarrassed by Henry's presence, "Uhm, no Henry, is there a problem?"
"No, just wanted to let you know Ashley and Will have gone to Seattle."
"Seattle?" asked Helen after regaining her composure.
"Yeah, Will thought that our guest might feel more comfortable in some of her own clothes."
"Please don't tell me they are planning on breaking into Madison's home to retrieve said items."
Henry smirked at the assumption, "Okay, then I won't." The likable Tech geek walked off down the hall with a chuckle.
Smiling, Helen went to the kitchen to organise some food with her manservant.
-o-
Madison cocked her head to the left when she heard a deep male tone speaking in the hall. She didn't recognise the voice and concentrated on the conversation.
"Are you certain my appearance won't frighten her?" the baritone voice asked.
"I don't believe so, particularly after what she has already witnessed," replied Helen. "Besides, wasn't it you who used to find great pleasure in scaring children?"
There was a soft bottomless chuckle then the two walked into the room.
Madison was grateful for the overheard tête-à-tête and was ready for the shock of seeing the near seven-foot Sasquatch-like man alongside Helen.
"Welcome to Sanctuary Officer Cross, ack, ack, if there is anything you require during your time with us; please notify me via the intercom system by the door." The huge man placed a tray on top of the writing desk then added, "Enjoy your meal." He retreated into the corridor and Helen thanked him.
Madison closed her slack jaw then stared at her host, "Okay, let me ask you something."
Helen picked up a bowl and spoon from the tray, "Go ahead, I am sure you have one or six at this stage." The woman handed the bowl to Madison, "It is homemade chicken noodle soup."
Accepting the food and utensil, Madison took a mouthful, "This is delicious and my question is ... does the name of this place reflect its purpose?"
A broad smile stretched across Helen's face, "Indeed it does. It was my father's and my belief that there should be Sanctuary for all who sought it."
Finishing a mouthful of soup, Madison remarked, "Please don't tell me you harbour criminals here because I would hate there to be a conflict between us."
"I too would like to avoid that possibility," responded Helen. "Before I divulge further information on the true purpose of this place, I need your assurance that the data remains confidential."
Madison finished another spoonful of broth then ate the remainder before replying, "You have my word, but I gather you deal with individuals who are not quite your standard variety human."
"That is very astute of you Sergeant. The creature that attacked you was a feline-human hybrid and part of a military experiment on humans using animal genetics to produce the ultimate fighting soldier."
Had Helen not taken the dish and spoon from Madison, the blonde would have dropped them, "What the hell and how did you become involved?"
"I give you fair warning; what I am about to tell you will change the way you perceive the world. It's my life's work to offer aid or a home to those we call Abnormals, that is, beings who possess abilities that differ from the norm. Let us just say I am someone who has chosen to embrace the full spectrum of our reality. There are things in this city, in this world that no one wants to admit are real. My teams, as well as those in the Worldwide Sanctuary Network track down or hunt them and either provide shelter or find alternative placements. There are those who need protection from the public and others we need to protect the public from."
"Like the one who attacked the woman then me and my partner?"
"Correct. Through shared information, we became aware of the Abnormal's existence and subsequent escape from a facility in Washington D.C."
"Shit! Are you saying the US government is behind all this?"
"No, the creature originated in Africa and a covert organisation known as "The Cabal" that captures then studies Abnormals, first discovered this latest one. This unscrupulous group experiments with Abnormals before either destroying them or using them to entice fear and loathing in humans. They believe Abnormals pose a genuine threat to the survival of the human race and as such, intend to eradicate all Abnormals and thus gain control."
Helen retrieved a plate containing a sandwich and passed it to a surprisingly calm Madison. Taking a seat next to the blonde on the bed, she noted, "You don't appear too distressed by what I have just told you."
"I'm not. I have seen some crazy and unexplainable shit as a cop, but when I got a good look at the creature, I knew I was dealing with something not quite human. That's not to say, I'm not shocked because I am, but I'm just too exhausted to think about it right now."
"You should rest," directed the doctor while getting up and gathering two tablets from the tray. Handing them to Madison, she added, "Take these for the pain then sleep."
Without hesitation, Madison swallowed the pills, "I'm fine and I'd rather talk some more. So you are continuing your father's legacy?"
"Indeed, my father Gregory was also a medical doctor and scientist. He conducted his own research and study into Abnormals and taught me all I know. My father also introduced me to other scientists who shared the same interest into paranormal activities. My father established the first Sanctuary in London many years ago and when he disappeared, I built this Sanctuary using his designs so as to be able to accommodate and research Abnormals. This facility has dual obligations: the first is to study the miraculous and the second is to protect against the perilous."
"That's some serious responsibilities, so what other kinds of abnormalities are we talking about here?" enquired Madison after finishing her sandwich.
Taking the dish, Helen happily continued, "Telekinesis, photosensitivity, reptilian or non-human intelligent creatures just to name a few."
"Holy shit, this is amazing."
"Some individuals we have located live here and roam around free to carry out jobs and pose no threat. There are more Abnormals housed in the lower levels and when you are feeling more mobile, I'll take you on a tour to meet them."
"I appreciate that, so what injuries did I sustain?" asked Madison, changing the topic.
"Your right tibia was fractured and the deep lacerations to your chest, arm and stomach required some creative surgery. Luckily, the majority of damage was mainly to muscle areas and most vital organs were spared from any serious trauma. Unfortunately, your right lung and liver received the major portion of the impact and require time to mend. Your top level of fitness has been a benefit to your recovery."
Madison slowly nodded her head while processing the information, "Why didn't you just leave me for the paramedics?"
Helen sat down beside the blonde again, "We couldn't take the risk of you being infected by the virus in the Abnormal's bloodstream. Ashley, Will and I were on its trail when you came into the equation. By the time we had tracked it through Ward Springs Park then along Denny Way, the creature had picked up the scent of the woman and given chase. Moments later, they attracted your attention and by the time we arrived on scene, the damage had already been done and there was no other alternative but to bring you here."
"I really do owe you my life Doctor," mumbled Madison humbly.
"You owe me nothing but our agreement for confidentiality."
"Thank you and you have that. Would it be possible to call my partner now?"
"Your cell phone was damaged during the fray I'm afraid, but you are free to avail yourself of mine. Before you do, I have to inform you that the Seattle Police Department have officially listed you as deceased."
"Crap! I supposed I will have to think up a pretty good story to explain my absence."
Helen stood and withdrew her phone, "I'll give you some privacy. Also, the woman who was attacked has fully recovered, but has no recollection of the creature, which by the way, died at the scene."
Taking the offered phone, Madison grimaced, "How the hell do I explain all this to Bobby?"
Smiling softly, Helen answered, "May I suggest you tell him you were heavily concussed, wandered off into the street and I found you. This place is a registered medical and research facility Madison; just the accommodation of Abnormals is to be kept secret."
"All right, I'll go with that. I just have to leave out the part about the helicopter ride."
"Well yes, that would be advisable. Tell your partner you will return to Seattle when you heal sufficiently from your injuries and are able to travel."
Frowning, Madison asked, "What do I say if he wants to visit me?"
"Arrangements can be made Madison, it's not like we exist totally underground inside a mountain or the like and are a secret military installation."
Madison giggled at the assessment, "I understand and thank you again."
"You can tell him you should be well enough to travel within a week. I will remove your sutures in your arm in seven days time and as you have probably ascertained, your other incisions were closed with surgical glue. I would have used it on your arm too, but unfortunately, I ran out of supplies. Stocks are due to be delivered today."
"Sorry about that," joked Madison.
Laughing brightly, Helen said, "So you should be, you impertinent rascal."
Madison's heart pounded a little quicker as she gazed at the incredible woman beside her, "Does the big fella have a name?"
"No, he prefers not to have one. He is simply known as the Big Guy or Bigfoot," answered the doctor matter-of-factly. "He has been here with me since 1951 when I removed more than a few bullets from him after he had been hunted. When he recovered, he did not want to leave, so I employed him as the butler, handyman, bodyguard and chauffer. We have been close friends ever since."
"Holy shit!" exclaimed a gobsmacked Madison. "Oops, I'm sorry to be cussing so much in front of you."
"That's fine Madison. I'll leave you to make your call and inform your partner that this facility is situated at the very end of Grayson Street down by the river."
"Thank you."
Helen placed the glass of fruit juice on the table and exited with the tray while the blonde keyed in Bobby's cell number.
He answered after three rings, "Spillane speaking."
"Bobby," Madison replied in an emotional voice racked with tears.
"Yeah, that's me, who is this?"
"It's Madison."
Bobby exploded into a rage, "Listen here you sick fuck."
Madison interrupted her best friend's tirade, "You big lug, it's really me. I'm alive."
There was silence on the other end for several seconds before Madison continued, "Bobby, it's really me, who else would know you defied your father's orders as a boy and fell down a mine shaft while exploring on vacation. You hit your forehead and ended up with a scar. You never told your parents how you got the injury; even your wife doesn't know the truth because you are embarrassed about it."
The reply was filled with tears of disbelief and joy, "Holy fucking shit Madi. I thought you were gone, everyone did. Where the hell are you?"
"I'm in Old City in Vancouver. Apparently, I wandered off in a state of concussion and picked up by a doctor who was passing by and she took me to her clinic. She patched me up and nursed me back to health. I will be home by the end of next week."
"Hell Madi," whispered Bobby as he pulled his emotions together. "We all believed you were dead."
"So I have been told. Listen, I've basically been in and out of it this past week and my injuries were extensive. My phone got wrecked in the process, but you can contact me on this number."
"I'm just so glad you are okay. Your memorial service is scheduled for Monday."
Madison laughed with mirth, "I'd appreciate it if you put a stop to that and inform Captain O'Reily of my situation."
"I'll give him a call straight away and Ellen is going to be so happy with this news. She is currently at her parents. She took your supposed death pretty hard, in fact we all did. Gosh, I can't believe I'm actually talking to you."
Madison's tears fell unashamedly down her cheeks, "Give your adorable wife a hug for me and if you two want to visit me, I'm at a place called The Sanctuary on Grayson Street. It's a medical research facility run by a Doctor Helen Magnus. She said it was okay for you to come here."
"That's great Madi. I'll talk to Ellen then get back to you later."
"All right buddy. This is the Doctor's phone I'm using and I'll speak to you soon."
"It's great to have you back Sarge," gushed Bobby.
"I'm lucky to be here Bobby ... I love you and Ellen."
"We love you too, bye."
After closing the phone, Madison drank the juice then walked out onto the balcony and was taken by the view. The township of New City stood majestically across the river and as she looked to her left, she was amazed to see just how huge the surrounding neogothic architectural styled buildings were.
"How did your call go?" inquired the soft voice of Helen as she stood in the doorway.
Ignoring the shudder of her shoulders, Madison replied, "Great and Bobby wants to visit. He will be calling you later to make arrangements, if that is okay?"
"Excellent," answered Helen while stretching out her right hand and touching Madison's shoulder. "You should come inside; it is frightfully cold out here."
Nodding, Madison turned to the brunette, "It is, but it feels rejuvenating against my skin." She yawned then added, "I think I need to rest."
"Good idea. I have work to attend to, but if you need me, I will be just down the hall to the left. The fourth door along is my office and living quarters."
"Thank you and this place of yours is humungous."
Smiling, Helen removed her hand and secured the doors, "Yes, it covers an entire block. Enjoy your sleep Madison."
The blonde took hold of the Doctor's arm as she walked by, "How close was I to not surviving?"
Helen nodded in understanding, "Your heart stopped once in the helicopter and again while I was repairing your upper intestine. Your blood loss was considerable throughout the procedure and you required several transfusions."
Exhaling deeply, Madison spoke softly, "Thank you for your honesty."
"To do otherwise would be unacceptable."
Reluctantly removing her hand, Madison uttered, "I'll talk to you soon."
"Pleasant dreams," responded Helen while moving to the door.
Madison turned back the covers and snuggled into the warmth. Her tiredness overtook her swiftly and she drifted into a deep, peaceful slumber.
-o-