#ALSO ALSO SALEM.... STRIKING BEAUTY.....

[bestworstcase]

do you have any thoughts on The Hunter’s Children? when i read it my immediate reaction was “this has to mean strq reunion” (and i have been banging that drum for years now) but i’m curious what you think about it

in general i read fairytales of remnant as an ozpin character study so i tend not to have STRQ at the forefront of my mind (see also: ‘the warrior in the woods’ was not originally about a silver-eyed warrior), and my immediate reaction to the hunter’s children was to look at this:

“No,” said the younger sister. “We need to study the Grimm, so we can figure out better ways to protect against them.” […] The younger sister ventured into the woods near her village and built a structure high on a tree branch from which she could observe Grimm safely. Whenever one came near, she calmed herself enough to avoid its attention while she made careful notes and sketches. But studying the Grimm in this passive state did not provide useful information about their strength and abilities in combat. […] “I was wrong. The best way to learn about the Grimm is by fighting them,” said the younger sister.

and then this:

This is one of my favorite fairy tales, and I include it here not only because its messages still resonate today—perhaps more than ever—but also because the hunter’s four children bear a striking resemblance to the four-student teams at each of our Huntsmen academies. One wonders if the king of Vale had this story in mind when he established them after the Great War.

and then exchange a meaningful glance with the corner of my brain where i just replay WOR: grimm on a continual loop and crack the fuck up. ozma modeled the curriculum of his academies on a story whose overt moral includes "scientific study of the grimm is a waste of time and useless, the right way to learn about them is killing them." and in the end killing is all that matters………

OUR marvelous capacity to learn from the experience of fighting grimm; THEIR perverse form of self-preservation making them more effective killers. salem is the funniest fucking person alive

also considering ozpin says it’s his "favorite fairytale" (and thus probably one he either made up in the first place or has retold often enough to have shaped the traditional narrative) and his CONSTANT PROJECTION,

“Because I hate the Grimm for killing your mother,” the hunter might answer. “And I hate myself for not being there when she died.” Dinner conversation was silent on those nights until one child would ask softly, “Tell us about Mother again.” And soon they would be sharing their favorite memories of her, such as her sharp sense of humor, her beautiful singing voice, and her gentle but firm hand in guiding their combat training.

<- this is about salem. or more specifically, it’s ozma’s grief and remembrance of salem refracted through an allegorical story about a man who couldn’t save his beloved wife from the grimm. (which. lmao.) and well. the lost fable begins with salem humming, and her way of teaching and training cinder is not far off from a twisted "gentle but firm" approach. that’s 2 of 3, and 3 of 3 taking into account her occasional moments of WITHERING DEADPAN SARCASM esp in narration and the "your mother said those words to me"/"hm! her again? :)" attitude she has adopted about these girls’ mother being her general and the "hm! you certainly do enjoy collecting assets!" gently ribbing cinder and the nasty "she thinks… she wants…" bit when she uses her sarcasm for evil. and "perhaps you and i can have a better working relationship :)" LISTEN TO ME. SALEM IS FUNNY. HUMOR IS HOW SHE COPES. OZMA MISSES HER JOKES…

ahem.

that said, rereading the story again i do see where you’re getting the STRQ parallels / reunion foreshadowing because yeah it’s.

younger sister: her semblance suppresses or banishes emotion with waves of "overwhelming calm," she uses it to go… live among the grimm…

younger brother: his semblance lets him hide in plain sight by closing his eyes, but grimm can still sense his presence; he stumbles around "safe" but blind until the younger sister rescues him.

older sister: her semblance leads her toward whatever she needs most, which in the story this turns out to be her younger siblings. she pledges her service to protect the village, but the grimm are so numerous and the villagers so upset that they’re forced to adopt a nomadic lifestyle to stay safe.

older brother: his semblance allows him to create a shared pool of aura between large groups of people connected by a rope; he travels around until he finds a surviving village and becomes their champion until they, too, are overwhelmed and forced to flee.

if summer willingly joined salem, then… yeah all four of these characters map very neatly onto team STRQ.

summer joined salem and learned from her how to tame / command / ally with / otherwise live safely among grimm; she’s the younger sister.

"bravado" is a description that suits tai’s character quite well, and when he’s "alone in the forest"—left by raven and summer and qrow—he winds up lost and blind, depressed, and he’s (emotionally) trapped there still, surrounded by grimm that have overrun vale and patch.

raven’s semblance links her to her family so she can always get to them; there’s some resonance too between the older sister’s leadership of the village and the branwen tribe in that the branwens need to stay on the move because, as bandits, they’re walking grimm bait. and the older sister is left behind, which is… pretty clearly how raven feels toward the rest of her team.

qrow as the older brother on the surface seems like he’s the odd one out but…considered metaphorically, the older brother’s semblance makes him weak when he is alone and strong with the support of a community, which is qrow’s emotional arc exactly; and the older brother also travels the world and (literally) binds people together, which, gestures at qrow telling yang where to find raven and bringing RNJR into the loop and so forth. also the clover pin semblance key change in v8.

…gonna put this one down as another tally in the "tai’s 'assignment' keeping him away from vacuo is summer" column.

[jknerd]

FOP AU OC: Timothea Turner

Full Name: Timothea Trinity Turner

Gender: Female

Occupation(s): Heiress of Turner’s Farm/Ranch, Owner of Foster Home

Residence: Turner’s Manor, Dimmsdale, California

Interests: Hearing her father’s public pronouncements, fairytales, outdoor gatherings

Family: Ebenezer Turner (father), Gerth Turner (mother; deceased), Unknown husband, Pappy Turner (Grandson), Gertrude (graddaughter), Darrick Turner (great grandson), Susannah Turner (great granddaughter-in-law), Timantha “Timmy” Turner (great-great-granddaughter)

Other relationships: Orville Buxaplenty (suitor), Valerian Star (friend, suitor), Charlie McBadbat (friend, suitor), Shelby Dinkleberg (suitor), Hank OxHorn (suitor), Taran V. D’Vil (friend, suitor), Alden Bitterroot (enemy), Dale Dimm (suitor, friend)

Character

Timothea Trinity Turner was a daughter of Ebenezer Turner, one of the founding members of Dimmsdale, bellman and a rich farmer. She is also Timmy’s ancestress. Unlike her occasionally unintelligent father, Timothea is fully aware of her position as rich farmer’s daughter and her beauty, she used her charm into good use; receiving money, jewels, and other valuables to use them on her Foster home for orphans, disabled, and former slaves as well as giving paycheck to her father’s workers. Her portrait has been kept in prime residence of Turner Ranch where Pappy Turner lives. Timothea bears a striking resemblance with her descendant.

Background

Timothea was a little girl when she and her father moved to California. With the dairy and farming business prospering, her father became a rich farmer. When she came of age, her father Ebenezer became one of founding members of Dimmsdale and was given a choice of what occupation he can have. When he chose to be a town crier, Orville Buxaplenty—the youngest member of founders—gained more wealth by becoming a railroad tycoon. She was seen comforting her father who regretted his choice by saying she enjoys his pronouncements, quickly cheering him up. She made official debutante, gaining mass population of suitors in Dimmsdale. Aware of what her charm and beauty can do, she decided to use them well to gain economical support from her suitors to feed the orphans, disabled and former slaves living in her recently built foster home.

It is further revealed that when she was a child, her father hired the Bitterroot family who are family of witch/wizards from Salem, Massachusetts. Their son, Alden—being same age as her—were her only companion and a friend as she knew he was a warlock, but kept a secret to protect their friendship. However, she felt concern witnessing his ambition for social power and his immense hatred for fairies. When she found a magic wand, she decided to use its magic to prosper Dimmsdale but Alden wanted it either destroyed or use it to eradicate all fairies. When he started to accuse god-children as witches, she confronts him with a help of Dale Dimm and had him sealed away as she can’t bear to see him burned alive. She then made a wish that the town doesn’t know about fairies and their existence to keep the fairies safe from Alden’s wrath. According to history, she married a man who came from poor background as he received her family name “Turner” and was known for having a buckteeth.

[fursasaida]

The WPP photograph of the year is from Palestine - a woman clutching a child's wrapped corpse - and I feel some type of way about the fact that the photo is a PERFECT entry in the western european Christian art tradition of the Pietá, (the positions, the colors - woman in deep blue with a goldenrod hijab, child in a white sheet - the proportions, everything) but conveniently in a perfectly clean room, no blood or dirt to be seen, and with no visible faces. Like of course it's this one because Palestinian suffering and personhood can't be legible until you pass it through the filter of 600 years of European art history.

However, I also know that none of this matters, we are well past the era when a striking image could cause political change or affect the course of the genocide, so like, fine. It is a beautiful photograph of mourning nonetheless. The photographer Muhammad Salem is obviously conflicted about getting the award, from his statement, because who wants to be celebrated for the suffering of their people? The photo is full of contradictions because the world that made it possible is. I'm gonna go buy an esim for Gaza.

[valpogossip]

Any interesting pairings you’d like to see?

I guess the easy/cop out answer would be everyone and a therapist but to make things interesting I think seeing the following interact could be pretty funny:

Abril and Misty: They strike me as the same form of determined but also avoidant. I think they'd fuel each other in, potentially, the worst ways and where's the fun in healthy friendships?

Mallory and Valentina: Two hot girls who know they're hot and love having fun, it's a match made in heaven. And what better way to prove you're not stuck on one someone by getting with another someone !

Poet and Saffron: Poet needs some for of an angel on her should before she winds up in jail for fraud and Saffron needs someone to drag her out and show her it is perfectly fine to be a bit of a mess from time to time before she ends up in social jail. Which i think is worse than real jail. They'd balance each other out.

Drew and Leia: When we talk about matching one another's freak (platonically luna, put the switch blade away), I think there's no better pairing than the two of these. Two PHDs in yapanese and a hyper fixation on the obscure they can share with each other, and save everybody else! Its a win win!

Kitae and Noah: You ever just put the most tumbleweed headed (affectionate) people in a room together? I think they'd do nothing but speak in internet slang and bizarre phrases to one another but still have a better conversation than Omar or Dixie was able to have with their exes.

Yaz and Luna: The girl you think your best friends ex boyfriend (allegedly) cheated on her with? Even more hilarious to find out how dead wrong she is. And during pride? Cherry on top.

Rafael and Nazli: I think he could learn something about work ethic from a workaholic and she could definitely learn something from a workaphobe! Mutually beneficial.

Jenny and Adem: He needs help in all things fun and social media and she very much needs someone to look after her on all her nights out. Maybe someone to get her to set that last drink down while she can help him figure out lighting for his pictures, aw. Ain't that wholesome?

Vanni and Devon: Two gym bros in a singular room? I'm sorry, too borderline conceited gym bros in a room? They're gonna start flexing like it's some sort of gun show and is there anything more entertaining than a peacock showing off its feathers?

Reyna and Anayeli: Two beautiful artists at different points of their career and their self-love and healing journeys? I think they could learn a lot from each other.

Salem and Zak: No one can shoot a person down like Salem can shoot a person down, but Zak is quick on his feet too. Can't deny he's charming. It would be something out of a wattpad original to watch them bicker, doesn't the sound of it just make you wanna grab popcorn.

Rohan and Ysla: They're both are healing from great loss, searching for it in every place but themselves and I think there could either be some really great lessons in that or it'll be awful for both of them and we get to watch the whole thing explode. A win win.

[fantasies-fairytales-n-fics]

Code Blue Ch. 17- Safe Haven

Summary: Josie awakens to a sweet text. She later receives good news and another sign. A fairytale ensues. Jo and Lee share a warm embrace and a wish. Unexpected company arrive, adding to the day's gloom. Jo stands by her man which enamors him. Lee shares some childhood memories with her. The two deeply connect until forces of nature intervene, only bringing them closer together.

*Warnings* Angst, language, mentions of drug/alcohol use and terms, funeral mentions, grief and guilt,

Stories Stories Stories Masterlist

Chapter characters: Lee, Josie, Gordon, Donna

Salem, Massachusetts

February 26, 2023

8 am.

You stretched and yawned with a frown as your phone's beep woke you up from a rather sleepless night due to all of your anxiety. An exuberating smile formed on your face though as you read the text from Lee...and the butterflies started in again.

"Good morning beautiful girl. Thank you for coming to my dad's showing last night. It meant everything to me. I cannot wait to see you today."

To know you were the first thing on his mind when he woke up and that he was anticipating your presence was the most blissful feeling.

"Heyyy there sweet guy. Are you doing alright this morning? I know how hard this day is for you."

"I will be just fine once I have you in my sight. You make everything better....like a whole pint of ice cream."

"Lol. Now I want ice cream."

"What's your favorite kind?"

"Definitely black cherry."

"You and this cherry thing. I like it. I still remember the taste of your cherry chap stick. Hey sweetheart, I gotta go pick up my suit. Come on over any time you like...can't wait to see you ice princess."

You were thankful Lee couldn't see how red you just turned from the embarrassment of how he had easily figured out you basically kissed him in your attempted CPR when you found him unconscious from his attic fall, thinking he wasn't breathing....but when you had realized he was, you had still kept your lips adjoined to his because his mouth was the most succulent thing you'd ever felt.

"Ice princess? lol, that's a new one."

"Well that's what you are. Watching you on the ice the other day was such royal vision."

"Certainly better than the vision of me falling on my ass in your yard."

"Oh, no. That was even better. 😊🤪"

"Ha...ha. Well, then I'm going to take you skating with me and see how you do on that!"

"I'll tell you right now, my feet are better when they're flat on unslick surfaces. We'll both end up at the hospital because I'll take you right down with me."

"What? You can't ice skate?"

"Or roller skate, or skateboard, rollerblade, ski...anything that moves beneath my feet is a disaster waiting to strike...except for my car."

"Well, I will gladly teach you. You could come to one of my classes. The girls would get a kick out of that lol."

"Oh I see how it is. Embarrass myself in front of a bunch of children that can do something a grown ass man can't...I'd be up for private lessons though. 😇"

"Hmm. That can be arranged. Hey don't feel bad. Ice is an excuse for casualties. I have no excuse for just walking! lmao."

"True dat! lol. Surely there must be something though that you don't know how to do, that I know how to do and could teach you....besides walking."

"Lol...There is actually, but it's embarrassing. Hey, you need to go, remember? lol."

"Ohhh now it's on, like freaking donkey kong. I won't forget about this and will get it out of you later. See you soon gorgeous."

"TTFN!"

"LOL"

Oh how that man made you smile...but you also felt sad because he was trying to act normal when he was about to bury his father.

Now you needed to find something black and conservative to wear because you certainly were not going to bling out like Jason requested of you for his funeral. You weren't going to know anyone there but Lee and didn't want to draw attention to yourself...well, besides Amy, Britt and Ethan, whom you just met...but you had no idea if Orlando was going to go. You certainly hoped he would, regardless of the tension between him and Lee because they were best friends and really needed each other right now more than ever. It really bothered you that you were the cause of their feud.

Just then, your phone rang and you immediately recognized the number. A call you had been waiting on.

"Hello?'

"Hey there, just Josie. It's Craig, your new landlord as of today. Your check cleared and you are good to move in whenever you'd like."

You giggled that he was till calling you just Josie.

"Oh gosh, that's great! Thank you for calling. It will probably be around the end of the week. A lot is going on right now."

"That's fine. Just stop at my studio where we met to get the keys and sign the lease. I'm usually here."

"Ok. Thank you again Mr. Parker."

'Ah ah. Just Craig remember?"

"Oh, that's right. Well thank you again just Craig." you replied with a chuckle.

"I've created a monster." he laughed. "See you soon. Have a good day just Josie."

"You too, Goodbye."

"YES YES!!!" you shouted in excitement after you hung up. Finally, your own place and to be free of Megan for the most part....and you were already daydreaming of having Lee come over....maybe he could even help you move in.

Well. What to do now? you thought, since you probably wouldn't head to Lee's until the afternoon....although you desperately wanted to go now because you were missing him something fierce. What the hell had he done to you? You swore on the holy bible that you would never let any man close to you again and here was Dr. love, crashing through your barriers like a wrecking ball. You had tried to fend him off in order to protect yourself, and even him, but here you were, being reeled back in, hook, line and sinker.

You decided to get up and do some packing to kill some time and turned on your music, only to be floored by yet another in your face sign.

"Noooo way..." you whispered as you stared at the stereo.

This should have made you happy, but instead, you dropped on your butt and began to cry. Why? You knew why. You were scared to death that this was all going to be too good to be true and as fast as that wrecking ball came in and wiped out all the bad, it was going to swing back and demolish all the good. You were at the point of no return, where your life would never be the same after Lee. There was no one like him, for he was merely something you always dreamed of, but believed could never exist....only in fairytales, like you wrote.

You got up and sat at your desk, opening your laptop to Facebook to see that Lee had sent you a friend request. You happily accepted it with an uncontrollable smile and then began to type in a post for the day.

"She dreamed improbable dreams, followed her heart and created her own little fairytale. Everything you look at can become a fairy tale and you can get a story from everything you touch. I made a wish upon a star, I turned around and there you were."

You then began to look through Lee's photos that you couldn't see before since his profile was private. You about shit when you saw a photo of his farm from an aerial view. He certainly was not exaggerating about the acreage and how easily it would be to get lost in the forest if you didn't know your way around it. It was a picture of pure heaven. A house, a barn and a pond all secured by nothing but trees. He was right. It was a place to escape the world. A place of magic.

Lee had quite a bit of nature photos. He certainly was a great photographer. Was there nothing this man could not do...besides ice skate? There was a multitude of pics from his farm, his lake house, his car and trucks, animals, and even some of himself, which blew you away at his many different looks, from short to long hair, beards to baby faced and you loved every single one of them. One that really made you swoon was him and a beautiful black dog laying on his lap.

You blushed as you wished it was you laying there, wanting to comment and say how jealous you were of that dog, but you refrained as to not embarrass him.

After about a half an hour of stalking his page, there was suddenly a notification. Upon clicking it, it was from Lee, commenting on your post. You leaned in to read his small paragraph of a reply.

"You're mad, completely bonkers, off your head. But I'll tell you a secret. All the best people are. You make me believe in fairytales.....but it's not a fairy tale if you lose your shoe at midnight, because that is probably something you would do just by merely walking...or you're just drunk. Either way, that shoe would fit no one else."

You didn't know whether to laugh or cry and ended up doing both. How was this man real? You replied with no jokes, but with all sincerity.

"I have been looking for you since I heard my first fairy tale."

"Took you long enough. Did you fall down a rabbit hole? Now, would you get over here already? You're late for a very important date."

You decided to text him with your answer instead so that your business wasn't put out there.

"Lol...well, I'm not ready, unless you don't mind me bringing my things and getting ready there? I can bring lunch if you're hungry?"

"Well there's my little mad hatter. Of course you can get ready here. I'm not all too hungry. Nerves I suppose. There will be a dinner party after the service. I'll try to eat then."

You felt so bad for him. He clearly needed you so you told him you were on your way and rushed to gather your things, but quickly texted Orlando to see if he was going to attend the funeral.

"Hey...just wanted to know if you are coming today. I really hope so....and I hope that you are ok. I haven't told Lee about what happened. Not yet anyways. Please, at least tell me you're alright. I'm worried about you...and I really mean that."

You got in your Monte Carlo and sat for a few minutes, waiting to see if he would reply.

"I'm fine." was all you got...but it was better than nothing.

Your phone then beeped, but it wasn't Orlando. It was Lee.

"Hey sweet girl, I forgot to tell you I'm at my lake house. Moving some of mine and Jacob's stuff in from the house. The door's open, you can just come on in....if that's ok with you, to come here after...well you know.."

"Of course it's fine. Let's just forget about all that. On my way. I'll be there shortly."

"Can't wait. Drive safe."

You pulled into the descending driveway about twenty minutes later. It was a gloomy, rainy like day, but wasn't it always when there was a funeral? As soon as you got out of the car, you could hear music blaring from inside the enormous two story lake house. You took a minute to admire the garden of mulit-colored roses on the opposite side of the driveway that looked very well pampered. It amazed you that they would thrive in February but the weather had been so spring like, including the incline of stormy weather, which was also threatening the current day.

You made your way inside the open garage door which led you through a basement and followed the sound of the music up a set of stairs.

There was a door open to a back room and you peeked inside as you smiled at the song he was playing. More Than a Woman by the Bee Gees.

You stood at the top of the three steps that led down into the room and watched him lightly singing while he was moving boxes around. When he sat a box down, the angle of his face revealed to you that he had shaved, making him appear ten years younger than his already ageless self. There was that babyface again that you so adored. For just a moment, you imagined it being your things that he was moving in, which is something you never would have thought of, yet here you were, envisioning a future with him.

After he sat the box down, he slowly turned to see you smiling at him as he had smelled your perfume. The look on his face was so melancholic and his gleaming eyes begged for you to hold him.

You reached your arms out to him with a frown.

"Come here."

He came to you and you both just gazed at each other, then he closed his eyes and melted into your arms, squeezing you so tight. You fit inside his grip like a glove as he buried his face into your neck.

You didn't know what to do for him except just hold him for awhile. The feeling was definitely mutual on how much you had missed him, for it was obvious in the way he held you, but even more so when he spoke into your ear.

"I missed you so much Jo." His voice sounded so defeated.

"Hey, it's alright. I am here now...and I missed you too."

You held each other in silence for a few moments. It felt so nice, so right, so safe.

"I can't swim." you mumbled in his ear.

He pulled back and gave you a raised brow. "What?"

"You wanted to know what it was that I can't do that you could...well I assume you can swim. I guess I shouldn't presume that about others considering I'm not the only one in the world without that skill."

"Yes, you're right. I know someone else who cannot....but hey, that's alright. I could always teach you sometime? When it's warmer, maybe here on the bay? Behind all these trees, there's a nice beach."

"Ohhh, I don't know. I would prefer to just...not. I really don't like the water. I feel like such a joke sometimes. I afraid of heights, afraid of small spaces, I'm afraid of the dark and storms...I'm surprised I haven't turned into one of those people that can't leave their house."

"Hey, you are not a joke young lady. We're all afraid of something."

"Well...what are you afraid of?"

"Losing you."

"Lee...I'm not going anywhe..."

The alarm on Lee's phone went off. He released you and grinned.

'Make a wish."

"What?" you asked with a clueless smile.

"It's 11:11. You're the one that got me hooked on that, remember?"

You did remember, very well. It had been your very first text conversation with him and you had told him how you believed in it. At that time, he was quite skeptical but still made a wish as you had also. Later, you found out that he had wished for you when he revealed that in a serious moment....the night you panicked over your feelings and had pushed him away.

"Annnnd...you set your alarm to that time?" you asked with a giggle.

"I did, so that twice a day, every day, I could wish for you."

Oh dear god, your heart fluttered, taking your breath away as you gaped at him in pure awe.

"But...I think your wish has already came true." you smirked.

"Can't be too careful. Nothing lasts forever. But I am hoping....no, I am wishing... that this will."

"Me too." you softly agreed, lost in his eyes.

You were highly superstitious, which you supposed you could consider another fear and now you silently panicked because you had both just revealed your wishes, which you believed you weren't supposed to do. Too many things had happened in your life that had led you to the point of being overly cautious.

The doorbell then rang. You cringed at the timing to your fearful thoughts.

When Lee opened the door, he did not look too enthused to see the dressed up dark haired man and redheaded woman standing there. She was dressed as if she were going to a fancy dinner party or something of the sort.

"Gordon, Donna? Why are you here?"

"Well, correct me if I'm wrong, but our father passed away, so I thought I would come to the funeral." The shorter and older man than Lee snidely said.

"The funeral isn't for hours yet so why are you at my house? I don't recall inviting you."

Now it was clear. This was the older brother Lee told you about, that he didn't get along with and his wife that he had compared to Megan.

"Did I need one to come visit my brother?"

"Yes, you did. I have company. You could have just spoken to me at the service, in which I didn't even expect you to got to since you're never around."

"Can we cut the bullshit for the time being and maybe you could let us come in? It's getting ready to storm."

You had a feeling that was going to be quite the metaphor soon enough since you were almost at the expert level of reading Lee like a book. His entire stance and demeanor was now cold and unsettling.

He reluctantly stepped aside and let them in, both gawking at you.

Lee hesitantly but politely introduced you.

"Josie, this is my brother Gordon and his wife Donna."

You instantly picked up on Lee calling you Josie instead of Jo. He didn't want them calling you that, for he knew you only liked certain people to do so, but you also knew he was being protective of you....and his privilege.

He turned to you and half smiled as he mouthed. "I'm sorry." and took off his overshirt and went to the kitchen, grabbing a bottle of wine and glasses. The elephant in the room was couldn't be missed, but Lee still attempted to be hospitable because that was him, a good man. You all sat down as Lee poured the dark red vintage, his glass with barely any in it, but first handed you yours.

"Here you are sweetheart." he said with a smile as he sat down beside you. "I'm sorry that it's warm."

Lee was also sorry that he was serving it to you, for it was a brand that he thought tasted like shit and purposely saved it to serve to people like Gordon and Donna.

"Sweetheart is it? So are you two like a...real thing? You usually have a different one every month."

Your mouth dropped open at Gordon's passive aggressive remark. Lee sat with his arms crossed over his chest, his mouth also now open in disbelief as he stared at his brother, and then at Donna who remained silent and sipped her wine.

"How would you know anything about my life when you're too wrapped up in your own perfect little world? I'm not that person anymore and there was no reason to make that disrespectful comment to or about me, or in front of her." Lee bluntly stated.

"How was that disrespectful? I simply asked an honest question. No need to be hasty because I have a good life and yours is in shambles....still. I'm sure your new girlfriend of the month will soon figure that out."

"Excuse me??" you blurted out. "First of all, the new girlfriend is sitting right here and not going anywhere because I actually care about Lee and second, you don't know me and I certainly do not know you but from the few harrowing moments of meeting you, we can definitely cut the bullshit because I can easily see that you don't seem to even know your own brother, nor respect him."

Lee's widened eyes slowly glided to you in shock of your defense of him....and to the fact you called yourself his girlfriend, not to mention your feisty spirit that turned him on to no end. He was also reveling in how you flatly called out a complete stranger and owned every word of it.

"I like you. This one's a keeper Lee. Just don't fuck it up and maybe you can have something good like Donna and I do." Gordon patronized. Lee grinned and shook his head, knowing that what you and he had would never be anything like their twisted relationship. Donna merely smiled, watched and listened. You could tell she was enjoying the drama. A spitting image of Megan indeed.

Thunder began and the lights flickered, causing you to gasp. Lee immediately reached his hand over to yours.

"Hey, it's alright. I'm right here." he softly said as he laced his fingers into yours. It was unexplainable how you promptly felt relief at his touch, like nothing could hurt you. He was seemingly the cure to all of your fears.

"How did you even know I was here?" Lee asked with sarcasm.

"Well, that would be because we went to your old house and the family farm, so I figured a third times a charm. Look at that, I'm a poet and I don't know it."

"Technically, you do know it if you just said you're a poet and next time, if there even has to be a next time, call before you just show up." Lee snarked.

"Oh little brother, it seems you are in need of some fun. I have some if you want hooked up. Maybe it can pull that stick out of your ass and help you lighten up a bit."

Lee knew exactly what fun he was referring to. In fact, Gordon was the entire reason he had ever used any drugs in the first place, besides alcohol. Gordon was a huge cokehead but wasn't limited to the white lightning.

"I think it's time for you to go. Right now. Or I can take that stick out of my ass and beat you with it." Lee nonchalantly stated.

The looks on their faces, right along with yours was priceless.

You were so proud of him for declining the drugs and for threatening to open a can of whoop ass on his brother....and you would have cheered him on while he did it. It was obvious to you that Gordon had came there to intentionally antagonize Lee all over the farm dispute....and what Gordon said next, proved it.

Gordon and Donna stood up and put their coats back on.

"We will see you later then at the funeral home. Just know one thing. Enjoy the farm while you can. I am going to get back what was rightfully mine."

"Have at it." Lee barked as he slammed the door shut behind them.

Lee roughed his hand down his face and went to the kitchen, grabbing a glass and filling it with ice water, then chugged it down to get the nasty aftertaste from the one sip of wine out of his mouth. He then stood at the kitchen sink and stared out the window. You followed him in and stood behind him, wrapping your arms around his stomach and laying your face against his back. He smiled and cupped his hands over yours.

"You ok?" you squeaked with a frown on your saddened face.

"I am. You know Jo, you're a light in my darkened world. What you just did in there....I...I just have no words for. It means a lot."

If he only knew how you handled Elizabeth, he'd be even happier, but you weren't going to ruin any more of this day for him because that meant you would have to tell him why the encounter happened in the first place. It could wait.

"Well, that jerk deserved it. I mean, how dare he come into your home and speak to you that way, or even at all. Burns my ass. Now I see why you two are at odds. He's despicable."

"My sediments exactly. There was a time when he was actually an ok guy and we got along. It was many years ago and we were both different people then. My bad boy days I suppose one would call it. Having Jacob changed me though...and then Donna changed Gordon. She's trouble."

"Yeah, I caught on to that right away with her quiet act. Those are the dangerous type since I know one very well."

It thundered again as if the weather agreed with your words. It rumbled through the floor, startling you into burrowing your face between his shoulder blades as you squeezed him tight. Lee lifted his arm and turned, wrapping it around your shoulders and pulled you against his chest.

"It's alright. I've got you. Hey, let me show you something."

He put his index finger against the window, pointing to something.

"There. Do you see that island of trees across the bay in the far distance?"

You looked out the window and could see the stormy sky and lake peeking over the top of the boat house which you hadn't been able to view from the driveway as the entire desolate lake house was surrounded by trees.

"The one to the right behind the weather pole?"

"Yeah...I like to go there on my boat or canoe and camp. It's another one of my safe havens. It's uninhabited. Just a huge forest. Do you like camping?"

"I do, although I haven't went in years."

"Would you like to go with me sometime? I mean, that's if you're ok with being on a boat. I have life jackets, and well, I would sit right beside you. I would never let anything happen to you Jo."

"I know you wouldn't. Yeah, of course. I would love to go with you. This place is so beautiful Lee. I'd love to see the rest of it."

"Then so you shall. Come with me my lady." he grinned and extended his hand out to you.

You took his hand and he led you back to the room you had been in and out the french doors that had an enormous wooden deck attached to the back of the house which also wrapped around to the top of the garage. That side had a large hot tub that looked like a small swimming pool and at the end was a slide that dropped off into the inlet of the lake, something you knew you were certainly never going to use. The other side at the back of the house was furnished like an entire living room and had stairs leading down to a giant yard with a fire pit and a trail behind it that led through the trees out to the beach area Lee had told you about. This place alone could be considered a safe haven, you thought. If it were yours, you would never leave it.

For the next three hours, you and Lee sat next to each other on the sheltered deck talking and eating pb & j sandwiches that he made while it rained and thundered, which didn't even bother you now. Everything was so peaceful and perfect....but then it was time to get ready for his father's service.

Lee led you upstairs to a guest room for you to get ready and he went down the hall to his bedroom to do the same.

Lee began dressing and stood in front of a mirror tying his red tie.

He had it all planned out what he was going to wear, but once he was finished, he stared at himself and began to feel uncomfortable as he knew his father would also be wearing a red tie. He felt like he couldn't breathe and he hated the white shirt, so he ripped them both off in frustration and chose a black button down shirt, leaving it open at the neckline so he wouldn't feel suffocated. Grabbing his black jacket, he then headed downstairs to wait for you.

Lee went to the kitchen and downed a double shot of whiskey as his nerves were getting the best of him. How he had dreaded this day and now it was here, only moments before he would see his dad lying in a casket. He stood looking down at his shoes which triggered a memory of him and his dad when Lee was as old as Jacob when he died.

Shoes. His dad had so many and Lee remembered being fascinated with them.

He then remembered that same day, how they sat on the floor talking about trains and he would show him how the sounded the horn.

And then another memory of when Lee was older popped in his mind of his father dancing in circles, and Lee would do the same.

Finally, one last memory flashed at him. His dad buckling his seatbelt and that hit Lee hard.

You came down the stairs and into the kitchen to find Lee lost in thought with tear filled eyes.

"Hey...talk to me. We still have some time before we have to go."

Lee put on a fake smile as his fingertips grazed your cheek.

"You look really beautiful Jo.....I...I was just reminiscing I suppose, remembering some moments with my dad when I was a kid." he explained as his smile then became real.

"Would it help if you talked about them? I'd be really glad to hear stories about your dad."

"I was just thinking about how I loved my dad's shoes so much. He had so many. He would line them up and I would take turns putting each pair on and walking around in them, feeling like a grown up just like him. I remember my feet being so small that I could barely keep the shoes on. He stood and watched me the entire time with a smile on his face. There was one pair though that was my favorite. Black shiny loafers. I am wearing them now. Ironic isn't it, that my feet now fit perfectly inside of them? He never got bored with the daily routine of entertaining me after his long day at work. He always loved trains like I told you about and that he had bought that train set for Jacob that I have set up. When I was Jacob's age, about 5, I remember him showing me how to blow the horn by putting my hand up and pulling down over and over. I used to imitate everything he did. I loved him and wanted to be just like him."

"And you are. You became a doctor just like he was."

"I'm not really like him Jo. He always buckled my seatbelt...always. Never once did he forget. But I...I didn't make sure Jacob's was. I trusted his mother to do it...I should have checked Jo. My dad was a good and responsible dad...but not me."

Lee almost broke down and all you could do was take him into your arms and just hold him.

"Sweet guy, you were a very good father to that precious little boy because you loved him. You trusted his mother to do what she was supposed to do. That is not your fault. I wish you would believe that....and you were a good son too, your dad told you that. You took care of him just like he did you... I wish I could take all of this guilt and pain away." you compassionately told him into his ear as your heart broke. You couldn't handle it, seeing him suffer. You were never going to let anyone hurt him again, at least you would do your damnedest to prevent it.

"You take a lot of it away Jo, just by being here with me. You're my saving grace Jo. I truly feel that if I had never met you, I wouldn't be standing here right now." he replied right back into your ear.

You glided your cheek across his and stopped to slowly turn and hold a kiss upon it as you held his other cheek in your hand. As you released your lips from his smooth supple skin, he turned his face to you, his mouth just inches from yours. The scent of his warm minty breath flowed up your nose as he whispered your name. "Jo..."

You stood frozen, your lips trembling and slightly parted as his carefully neared yours. Was this moment finally going to happen? Were you finally going to feel him return the kiss you secretly gave him a month ago?

Of course not. Lightning flashed through the room and loud bang of thunder followed... and then the lights went out. You screamed and jumped against him so hard, almost knocking you both over.

"Hey, hey, hey shhhh...it's ok, it's ok baby. You're safe with me." he lovingly assured you as he held you snug in his strong arms. You huffed and puffed into his chest with your eyes crunched shut, listening to his pounding heart. "I have a generator...but let's just get out of here alright? I'll drive, my car is in the garage."

You nodded as he softly kissed your head. Lee kept his arm around you, leading you down the dark basement steps and helping you into his car.

"Here, scoot over here." he smiled and patted the open space between you both. You didn't even hesitate and swiftly slid up against him.

He glanced down into your eyes and you saw something in his that you could only simply describe as happiness.

"Girlfriend huh?" he said with silly smirk.

You lightly gasped in embarrassment, forgetting that you had blurted that out to Gordon without it ever being officially affirmed.

The corner of Lee's mouth raised into a grin and then he proudly drove off with you protectively under his wing. You felt sheltered and secure for once in your life and you finally knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that Lee was your safe haven...and you were his.

[onpointfencingd]

Ornamental Fence Gate Installation: Elevate Your Property's Aesthetic

At OnPoint Fencing and Decking, located at 1865 McGilchrist St SE, Salem, OR 97302, we specialize in providing high-quality ornamental fence gate installations that enhance both the beauty and functionality of your property. Ornamental gates not only serve as an entry point but also add a touch of elegance to your landscape. Here’s what you need to know about ornamental fence gate installation and why it’s a worthwhile investment.

1. Aesthetic Appeal

Ornamental gates are designed to be visually striking, often featuring intricate designs that can complement the style of your home and garden. Available in various materials such as wrought iron and aluminum, these gates can be customized to match your specific aesthetic preferences. Whether you desire a classic look or a modern twist, ornamental gates can significantly enhance the curb appeal of your property.

2. Enhanced Security

While ornamental gates are beautiful, they also provide a sturdy barrier that enhances security. They can deter unauthorized access to your property while allowing visibility through the gate, which is particularly beneficial for homeowners who want to maintain an open feel without sacrificing safety.

3. Durability and Low Maintenance

Ornamental gates are typically made from durable materials that withstand the elements, making them a long-lasting investment. With proper installation and minimal maintenance—such as occasional cleaning and checking for rust—these gates can remain functional and attractive for many years. At OnPoint Fencing and Decking, we ensure that our installations meet high standards for durability.

4. Customization Options

One of the key advantages of choosing ornamental gates is the wide range of customization options available. From different styles and colors to various hardware choices, you can create a gate that perfectly fits your property’s design. Our team at OnPoint Fencing and Decking works closely with clients to understand their vision and bring it to life.

5. Professional Installation

Proper installation is crucial for the functionality and longevity of your ornamental gate. Our experienced team at OnPoint Fencing and Decking is skilled in installing various types of ornamental gates. We ensure that each gate is securely anchored, operates smoothly, and aligns perfectly with your existing fencing.

6. Increased Property Value

Investing in an ornamental fence gate can increase the overall value of your property. Potential buyers often appreciate the combination of security and aesthetic appeal that these gates provide. A well-installed ornamental gate can make a strong first impression, enhancing the perceived value of your home.

Ornamental fence gate installation

In conclusion, ornamental fence gate installation is an excellent way to enhance your property's beauty while providing security and functionality. If you're located in Salem or the surrounding areas, our team at OnPoint Fencing and Decking is ready to help you elevate your outdoor space with our expert craftsmanship and attention to detail. Visit us at 1865 McGilchrist St SE, Salem, OR 97302, or contact us today for a consultation! For more information about our services, check out our website at OnPoint Fencing. Let us turn your vision into reality!

[popmusicu]

GHOST IN THE RADIO: Part 4

By Gabriel Salvador Contreras

Time has gone faster than I thought! And here we are at the last part. I’ve talked about lots of music either inspired directly by horror, or that inspire horror. Since this is the final part, I’d like to mention some genres directly inspired, as well as some recommendations that I didn’t mention before if you’re interested in the topic.

Horror Punk Directly inspired by sci-fi and horror films, we’re on a spooky fun vibe when we’re talking about horror punk. It’s most recognizable band has to be clearly The Misfits, but also Murderdolls, Blitzkid, Creeper, etc.

Dark Synthwave Also inspired by 80’s movies, in this category we have Perturbator, Carpenter Brut, Dance With The Dead, GosT to name a few. Intense music that evokes a feeling of nostalgia and adrenaline. It’s a relatively new ramification of Dark Wave music, evoking an “old future” vibe.

Horror Media Soundtracks Now we’re talking! Directly to the source, we can pretty much elevate any piece of media with a good soundtrack. Of course, this is extremely important for horror, and maybe one of the reasons why I started writing about this in the first place. I can recommend Akira Yamaoka’s work, Suspiria OST, Rule Of Rose OST, Kikiyama’s woth in Yume Nikki… it goes on and on.

Dark Ambient Ambient music takes the prize for being actually terrifying to listen while alone. Captivating with their minimalistic (and sometimes not) approach. Kammarheit, Instincts, Predominance, Desiderii Marginis, Lustmord are some examples. Some are inspired in specific fictional themes, such as Lovecraftian mythos, and other go maybe a little more on the edgy side making references to actual horrific events… just a heads up.

Witch House A very fitting name to electronic music, taking inspiration from industrial and dark wave, occultism and witchcraft. Salem, Ritualz, Crim3s and Crystal Castles are notable mentions.

An album that I would completely recommend to check out, not only for it’s vibes but also for it’s incredible amount of detail when it comes to symbolism though, has to be Geogaddi by Boards of Canada. Check out this amazing video essay to learn more!

So, final words. I seriously believe that music is the main drive for horror media, both as sound and silence. It’s such an integral part of it’s identity that it was inevitable for it to have this relationship as a constant theme in it’s history. I started with a clear idea, though while writing I noticed just how much horror permeates everywhere, even if not apparent at first. That’s why some of my choices may not have been as clear or obvious, since I also had to drop ideas to make space for others, so it wouldn’t be a long read. And that’s why I think it goes even beyond just making my point with examples: it’s something that must be experienced to be understood, to be at mercy of the tunes that can strikes us with a piercing note directly to our deepest fears inside our heart. Especially with the development of new media and globalization, horrors are always peeking at the corner of our eyes, making horror inspired music even more popular today, resonating with the feelings of many. And as a feeling, we must give it space in out hearts, not to take over us, but to accept it as a part of life, with I think music may be the perfect way to start admiring it’s beauty and accepting it’s inevitability. Let’s rejoice that we may not know what will happen tomorrow, yet today even if afraid we’re here standing strong.

Have a good spook! ~

[ansdhivyam]

ANS Dhivyam Jewels' Harams - A Fusion of Timeless Tradition and Modern Elegance

Situated in Salem, ANS Dhivyam Jewels epitomizes elegance and sophistication, offering a mesmerizing collection of Harams - Gold Collections that seamlessly blend timeless tradition with modern flair. Each Haram is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship, meticulously crafted to showcase intricate designs and superior artistry.

What sets ANS Dhivyam Jewels apart is its ability to strike a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. The Harams collection is a reflection of this ethos, offering a diverse range of styles that cater to every taste and occasion. Whether one is drawn to classic motifs that pay homage to ancient Indian art or contemporary patterns that exude modern charm, ANS Dhivyam Jewels has something for everyone.

The allure of gold serves as the canvas upon which the Harams come to life. Crafted using the finest materials and techniques, each piece is a masterpiece in its own right, exuding an aura of timeless elegance. Whether adorned with intricate detailing or sleek, minimalist designs, ANS Dhivyam Jewels' Harams are crafted with precision and passion, ensuring not only breathtaking beauty but also durability and longevity.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the Harams at ANS Dhivyam Jewels hold deeper meaning. They are symbols of heritage, culture, and identity, representing a connection to one's roots and a celebration of tradition. Wearing a Haram from ANS Dhivyam Jewels is not just about adornment; it is about carrying a piece of history and tradition with you wherever you go.

At ANS Dhivyam Jewels, customer satisfaction is paramount. The experienced staff members are not just salespeople but knowledgeable guides, ready to assist each customer in finding the perfect Haram that resonates with their style and personality. Whether one is seeking a statement piece for a special occasion or a versatile design for everyday wear, the team at ANS Dhivyam Jewels ensures a personalized and memorable shopping experience.

In addition to their commitment to quality and customer service, ANS Dhivyam Jewels also prides itself on its ethical practices. The gold used in their Harams collection is sourced responsibly, ensuring that every piece is not only beautiful but also ethically produced. This commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is a testament to ANS Dhivyam Jewels' dedication to making a positive impact on both the industry and the community.

In conclusion, ANS Dhivyam Jewels' Harams are more than just jewellery; they are works of art that bridge the gap between tradition and modernity. With their timeless elegance and contemporary charm, these Harams are not just accessories but expressions of style, personality, and cultural heritage.

[dkaufmandevelopment]

🌟 The Top 10 Emerging Multifamily Markets in 2024 🌟

Using Yardi Matrix data, we’ve pinpointed the most promising multifamily markets across the United States. These emerging markets have shown resilience and growth despite the challenges of recent years.

Let’s dive into the top contenders:

Omaha, Nebraska: The Gateway to the West takes the lead! With 4,506 units delivered in 2023, Omaha boasts the second-largest volume of new units among our featured markets. Occupancy remains tight at 96.0%, and developers have an impressive pipeline of 8,000 units under construction. Omaha’s affordability and solid price per unit make it an attractive investment opportunity.

Greenville, North Carolina: Located within striking distance of Charlotte and Atlanta, Greenville is home to nearly 1 million residents. Developers delivered 3,646 units last year, and a robust pipeline of 6,563 units is underway. Despite a slight dip in occupancy (94.0%), Greenville shows promise for multifamily investors.

Southwest Florida Coast: This sunny region combines coastal living with investment potential. Keep an eye on its growing employment market and property values.

Wilmington, North Carolina: Wilmington’s charm extends to its multifamily market. With 3,000 units delivered in 2023, it’s a contender for investors seeking growth.

Eugene, Oregon: Known for its natural beauty, Eugene also shines in the multifamily sector. Strong occupancy and employment trends contribute to its emergence.

Augusta, South Carolina: Augusta’s steady employment growth and competitive property values make it an intriguing market for multifamily investments.

Chattanooga, Tennessee: Scenic Chattanooga offers a mix of affordability and potential. Keep an eye on its construction pipeline and property values.

Winston-Salem – Greensboro, North Carolina: These neighboring metros show promise, with steady employment and attractive per-unit prices.

Remember, emerging markets can offer exciting opportunities for investors willing to explore beyond the usual suspects. Check out the full report and dive into the data: Top 10 Emerging Multifamily Markets in 2024 🏢📈

[timelesslifetreasures]

Emerald Engagement Rings- A Unique Approach To Designing Your Dream Ring

In the world of engagement rings, where diamonds often take the spotlight, emerald stands as a unique gemstone known for its phenomenal color and deep symbolism. With its captivating green hues emerald engagement rings in Salem have been capturing hearts and telling unique love stories for generations. Let's explore why these exquisite rings have become a cherished choice for couples around the world.   The Intriguing Green Color Emeralds have an enchanting quality that sets them apart from other gemstones. The lush green color is not only visually striking but also holds a wealth of symbolism. Green is the color of growth, renewal, and harmony - qualities that resonate deeply with the idea of embarking on a lifelong journey of love and partnership. Just as an emerald needs to be cared for and nurtured, so does a strong and lasting relationship.   A Gem For Your Unique Love Story In a world where trends come and go, an emerald engagement ring allows you to express your love in a uniquely personal way. While traditional diamond rings are undeniably stunning, choosing an emerald demonstrates your distinct taste and an appreciation for the unconventional. Your love story is one-of-a-kind, and an emerald engagement ring is the perfect reflection of that rare bond. Moreover, with customization options available at Jewelry stores in Salem, MA you can add another layer of personalization to your rings. Beyond the Surface: The Deeper Significance of Emeralds Beyond their visual appeal, emeralds have a rich history and cultural significance. In ancient civilizations, emeralds were associated with various mythologies and beliefs, often representing fertility and rebirth. This historical context adds depth to the gem, making it an ideal choice for couples who want their engagement ring to carry more than just aesthetic value - a piece of jewelry that carries the weight of centuries.   Make Your Ring Extra Special.   Personal Touch: Engraving Your Emerald Engagement Rings Emerald itself is a beautiful stone and when you combine it with some mindful jewelry engraving in Salem, you will have an absolutely extraordinary to flaunt forever. Jewelry engraving adds an extra layer of sentiment to an already meaningful piece. Whether it's a special date, a meaningful quote, or your initials entwined, engraving transforms the ring into a truly personalized treasure. Design Your Ring Using Lab-Grown Diamonds Even after you have settled on an emerald engagement ring if your heart still yearns for diamonds, you can opt for lab-grown diamond jewelry to still be on a budget, but now with diamonds on your ring. Emerald engagement rings with lab-grown diamonds are also a great choice for conscientious couples. Crafting Your Forever with Emeralds An engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewelry; it's a reflection of your love story. Therefore, it needs to be perfect. With its exceptional color and symbolism, an emerald has a lot to offer as the center stone of your engagement ring. Create unique and irreplaceable engagement rings for your special day with Timeless Life Treasures. They are Salem's treasured jewelry store widely known for their collection of engagement rings, fine jewelry, and more.   Original Source: https://timelesslifetreasures.blogspot.com/2023/08/emerald-engagement-rings-unique.html

[ghstdoll]

it felt like her entire body was caught on fire as his was pulled on top of hers, bodies intangled together to make one beautiful union. she's never felt like this, never felt so passionate and real about something as she feels about feeling his warmth against her skin. she thinks about what might happen if they take it further, removing the cute kuromi pattern shirt from his frame and seeing that beautiful cock of his again, this time putting it to a little more selfish use than she did in the bathtub. maybe it's wrong and maybe she shouldn't be thinking about that but it's hard not to let her mind wonder as his lips press into hers.

regulus also seems to like the way her tongue moves against his, almost like he's not expecting it either and he tastes good too, making her purr softly as she pulls him in closer, nudging her nose against his own and letting her legs wrap around his hips to pull him in closer. he begins to lick her own mouth as if to follow her lead which causes her to smirk a little before pushing her tongue against his with a little more force, making it sloppy and wet before shes wrapping her lips around his own tongue and sucking on it with a muffled moan as his hand wraps around her throat.

his dick is pressed against her pj bottoms, rolling over her crotch over and over making a shiver trickle down her spine as a soft gasp leaves her, she feels her underwear start to get damp as he grinds down into her, pressing against her cunt as she kisses him harder and allows her hands to brush against his chest, moving lower and lower until it pasues just above where their middles meet. "I've waited so long for you, my comet." she breathes softly, leaning in to kiss him deeply once more as if she needed him more than she even needed air to breathe.

but before she can continue suddenly the stinging voice of her step father rings through the house demanding she comes downstairs immediately. "oh shit." she says, gently pushing regulus from on top of her and sitting up as the memory of all the mud regulus tracked into the house washes over her. she quickly gets up from the bed "just stay here." she says quietly, cupping his face to kiss him once more before getting up to go meet her visibly angry parents and confused step sister downstairs.

"what the hell is this?" her mother says, pointing at the mud all over the carpet. "the front lock is broken and there's mud all over the floor?! what is wrong with you." salem tries to speak up but stutters on the words to explain it because how does she explain it without giving away her fiance being back from the dead and coming to find her. "I told you stacy, something is very wrong with that girl she's been causing nothing but trouble since she got here." her step father chimes in staring her down with that look in his eyes that she hated so much. "can everyone calm down? I can explain I just-" she starts but before she can finish he's speaking again. "you just want attention as always, what excuse could you honestly come up with that would explain why you've made such mess of my home?" salem swallows, clenching her fists tightly and it's as if lacy nocties her sisters discomfort because she tries to defuse the situation by asking her father to stop but he simply brushes her off. "this isn't the first time you've caused destruction, starting to think you're their a spoiled brat or just down right dangerous, maybe it's best if we send you away for a few months, make sure she isn't a deranged psychopath like her father." he spits. "dad stop! you can't just send her away!" lacy chimes in but Salem almost doesn't hear her and that was the thing that strikes through her chest the most, causing a stinging in her eyes as she opens her mouth to speak again "no..I'm not like him...I could try to explain if you just let me I...." it's almost as if they intentionally didn't want to give her the chance, just so they could continue taking such vile anger out on her "salem just go to your room, there are things me and your father need to discuss." and with that they shoo her away, salem drops her head and makes her way to her room.

upon entering she sees regulus there, almost as if he's been waiting for her as she lets out a soft sigh trying hold back the tears stinging in her eyes. "I'm sorry you had to hear that..." she says biting down on her bottom lip wishing she could force a smile.

the way she sighs vibrates through his body, making him shiver against her, every one of his muscles taut as he tries to restrain himself from what he wants to do. regulus is so overcome with desire that he imagines being inside of her and what she’d sound like if he were stroking in and out. she’s probably tight; tighter than his hand could ever be the few times he touched himself. he wishes he could be one with her; feel their bodies intertwine as closely as they possibly could, just the way their souls are.

he could get off on the thought alone; making love with the most perfect woman he’s ever known. her lips taste good sliding against his, her hands cupping his face to kiss him even more passionately. his mouth goes pliant beneath hers, opening up to taste her, realizing distantly that this is far past what should be an appropriate way to kiss your fiance. but they’ve done more than what’s appropriate already, regulus still recalling her hand around his length, making him feel so good that her touch was a spiritual experience.

and it is now too, making him moan into her soft mouth as she kisses him deeper, her tongue slipping out to trace his lips. he stops moving, eyes fluttering as he enjoys the feeling of her gentle tongue tracing his mouth, leaving a trail of her saliva behind. his entire body is on fire, a pleasure he’s only felt once before spreading through him again. he’s throbbing between his legs like he was earlier, pushing his tongue out to meet hers as she finishes tracing his lips. the feral desire tears through him, making his hand press harder against her throat, pushing her down into the mattress as his tongue slowly slides against hers for a moment. he never knew he could do this or feel such a way, completely taken over by a primal need he’s never experienced.

it doesn’t help that she arches up into him, that sweet moan leaving her because of his hand. she murmurs those teasing words against his mouth and he shakes his head, but it’s not like he would know anyway. he never kissed or touched any other girl like this. his past life isn’t something that matters, anymore– all that matters now is salem. the sweet smell of her filling his senses and her warm body pressing up against him as if she wants him just as much as he needs her.

she nibbles his lip, making him moan again, allowing her to bite down on it. then she goes for a deeper kiss, making his heart race as their mouths touch again, regulus already melting into her. she slips her tongue fully into his mouth, making him whimper, eagerly pressing his own tongue against hers. he licks her, savoring how good it feels and the way it makes him throb, the intense arousal taking over his body as he sinks into the overwhelming pleasure of kissing her. his hand tightens on her neck because she seems to like it, choking her against the bed as he starts to press down against her, his hard cock dragging against the front of her pajama pants.

[musiconanironingboard]

22 February 2023: Femina Furens, Djunah. (self-released, 2023)

Chicago duo Djunah, led by Donna Polydoros, who goes by Donna Diane in this project, was formed after the dissolution of Polydoros’s first band Beat Drun Juel. I happened upon a Beat Drun Juel show purely by chance when I had a rare free night to myself and decided to go see a lineup of local bands doing a Planned Parenthood benefit at a small club called Beat Kitchen that almost never books anything I’m interested in. Beat Drun Juel’s sound was hard rock, almost thrash at times, and I was amazed by Polydoros’s onstage presence and command. She rocked harder than any man I’d seen in ages, and more compellingly and convincingly so. The band had done an eight-song EP in 2016, and when I acquired that I spent plenty of time playing it. I later found out that Polydoros did some similar professional work in her day job as me, and I found it all the more interesting that she balanced bookish education-related work with the furious sound of Beat Drun Juel.

After the band’s dissolution, Polydoros did a few solo gigs around town before debuting a new group, the two-person Djunah. There is a drummer, currently Jared Karns, and Polydoros simultaneously playing guitar and then bass pedals with her right foot. Because the bass sound is there, Djunah’s sound is much more powerful than your usual duo. The sound is not quite as thrashy as Beat Drun Juel occasionally got, but Djunah is still hard rock bordering on metal. It’s not one of my usual niches; but, again, Polydoros keeps everything so interesting, and I do like the music.

In 2020, I posted about the first Djunah album, Ex Voto. Polydoros put extensive work into that album’s imagery and visual concept; in that case, the imagery was heavily religious. Femina Furens is no different as a high-concept package; in fact, it goes well beyond the album art. The title, Latin for “a furious woman,” shows that the catharsis of all her previous work is ongoing. She wrote in one of many Facebook posts about the new album, “I chose the name Femina Furens for the album as a way of reclaiming a term used pejoratively to describe women who express anger. Rarely are women who express rage seen as powerful warriors or leaders. Instead they are often belittled, infantalized, and shamed. This album is one way I reclaim the power and beauty of anger, for my own healing.” (Polydoros has stated that art and music, particularly live performance, are therapeutic channels that allow her to process her experiences of childhood abuse and to manage her related diagnosis of Complex PTSD.) The imagery of Femina Furens, though, is rooted in 1970s sci-fi fantasy art; think artists like Frank Frazetta, but with a decidedly feminist approach. She worked with Salem, Massachusetts photographer Courtney Brooke, who made the backdrops, and Polydoros herself made the costumes she wears throughout the album packaging. You can see more of this work in the striking video for “Seven Winds of Sekhmet” from the new album. Polydoros does nothing halfway and, seemingly nothing without an intellectual background, and of this song she says (also on Facebook) “Sekhmet is a powerful symbol for me. She's the Egyptian goddess of healing and war and the daughter and eye of Ra, who sent her to earth to destroy mankind. She is perhaps the original femina furens—in Latin, a “raging woman.” (My breastplate on the album cover is an homage to the rosettes appearing on statues of Sekhmet.) For me, her story is all about power and emotional regulation—core themes of trauma disorders. Her name translates to “she who is powerful,” and she was one of Egypt’s most feared and revered deities. The myth goes her bloodlust was so insatiable, the only way to stop her was to trick her into drinking beer dyed red to look like blood.” Knowing that Polydoros made not only her costume—and, of course, she also shared with fans a video of her making the ornate breastplate out of metal pieces—but also things like the “alien pregnancy” effect you see around the four-minute mark of the video, which is not CGI but something Polydoros actually built, well, all of this illustrates just how deeply Polydoros goes into her art. (I can’t find among her many posts about the album what she actually calls it; I don’t think it’s really “alien pregnancy.”) There are half a dozen other interesting quotes I could post and details I could give about the album and the video. In the meantime, you can see the video clip here. I had to laugh when a random commenter on her Instagram page said something along the lines of “Why does the woman have to be sexualized in this video?” and blamed the music business, not knowing that all of it is Polydoros’s choice and each aspect of it comes with some sort of well-determined intellectual reasoning.

Above are the front and back covers of Femina Furens.

Below is the opened gatefold.

The inner sleeve is plain; below are both labels (my shot of side one a bit blurry).

Polydoros most always finds time to personalize mail orders, and in this one she enclosed a postcard signed to me with a message. She encourages fans to post photos of their own copies on her social media, and while I didn’t do that I saw plenty of others’ copies and can confirm the handwritten messages are different for everybody.

Djunah is currently on an extensive tour. I wasn’t able to attend the recent Chicago show, and though I was in Milwaukee on the same night as their show there I had other obligations. I hope to see another Djunah performance before long. I’ve not seen them in several years, since previous drummer Nick Smalkowski was in the band, and from what I’ve seen online Djunah shows have only gotten better. It already reached its quota of spins on my stereo and then some, but I’ll be playing Femina Furens more in the near future.

[rainbeom]

TXT AS HIGH SCHOOL BOYFRIENDS + PROMPOSALS <3

pairing : txt x reader

genre : fluff

wc : 862 !!

warnings : use of the nickname 'princess' (in the context of princess peach from mario)

song rec : you : regard, troye sivan, tate mcrae ; ps5 : salem ilese, txt

a/n : im in my txt feels so here this is <33 inspo credits : @lovesickgyu & peter k. (to all the boys i've loved before) & a juyeon pic <3 also please lmk how this is !! hope y'all like it sjsj.

yeonjun : the charming jock who everyone has heart eyes for, but he has eyes for you and only you. loves it when you stop by to watch his practices, and will score more goals to impress you. pouts if you don't kiss him after his practice because he's sweaty, but you give in anyway. shows you off to his teammates, and would get jealous if some of them let their eyes linger on you for longer than needed. will hundred percent rest his hand in the back packet of your jeans (if you're comfortable ofc). every point he scores during a match is dedicated to you, his love. kissing you breathlessly when his team wins the match, making your heart swell with pride. whistles to call his teammates, who have five basketballs in their hands, spelt " p r o m ?" and there are two goal posts, one with a 'yes <3' sign and one with 'no :('. fool the poor boy by acting like you're going to kick the ball towards the no goalpost, but end up doing it towards the yes goalpost, to see your beautiful boy break into a smile and his teammates erupt into cheers.

(other members below the cut !)

soobin : the shy nerd, with you being his first love, and books, his second. study sessions with him where he explains things to you, but you're simply lost in his eyes and his monotonous voice. gently snaps his fingers with the bunny-like smile permanently pasted on his face when you're around. strikes up a deal with you to kiss you every time you give a right answer to the question he asks while you two prepare for your test. your back pressed against his chest, as he reads out sentences of novels that describe just what he feels for you. gives you a book, and asks you to find highlighted words and make a sentence out of them; your heart beats out of your chest when the words sum upto form 'will you go to prom with me, my love?' and you throw yourself into his arms, nodding.

beomgyu : the avid gamer who has his eyes on the screen, a console in his hands, and you on his lap. no matter what game or level he’s playing, his free hand will always snake around to your waist, as he asks you about your day and everything that you did. of course, there are some ‘me or the ps5?’ moments, but he always chooses you, quickly muttering an apology and brushing your hair with his fingers. a firm believer that you’re his princess peach and he’s your mario. will greet you in the hallways, classroom and in front of the lockers with the slightest whisper, “hi, my pretty princess peach” that leaves your cheeks as flushed as a strawberry. leads you to a hill which has a signboard while you two are playing minecraft and asks you to flip it, revealing a 'go to prom with your mario?' as he looks at you nervously, chewing on his bottom lip. attacks you with kisses when you press the green button, signaling yes, as the fireworks go off in the game.

taehyun : the soulful musician for whom, lyrics flow like a spring but has difficulty in using words to express his love for you. so instead, he writes songs dedicated to you. everything about you mesmerizes him so much that he could go on penning down lyrics about you for hours. loves it when you two go to karaoke, where he sings all the cheesy romantic songs for you. calls you his muse, because inspiration strikes him only when he's with you. sings to you when you're too stressed to calm you down. will text you to come to the music room asap and when you enter, the entire orchestra launches into a peaceful musical piece; and he begins singing "last night on earth' by green day. two wide smiles on both of your faces once he's done with the first chorus, he begins with, 'y/n, honey, will you-' but he's cut off by you jumping and shouting 'yes!', much to his delight.

hueningkai : the notorious troublemaker who's a menace to everyone except you, the calm to his storm, his one and only anchor. caging you with his body in empty nooks and corners of the school because flustering you is his hobby. late night rides on his motorcycle, your arms wrapped tightly his waist, as if you'd never let him go. loves to tuck in your hair behind your hair, because to him in that moment, you're perfect, his everything. climbs ladders and walls to sneak into your room through your window, soft feet padding through the wooden floor of your room. impresses your parents by actually showing up at your door instead of your window, with a bouquet of your favorite flowers. 'prom, darling?' he asks, your nose scrunching up cutely at the nickname, and your parents yell 'yes' from behind as he pulls you into his arms and pictures of you two get snapped by your folks for 'memories'.

© rainbeom, via imkyunies, 2022, all rights reserved.

[arc-misadventures]

Broken

“Come Mr. Arc, we must hurry!”

“I won’t get to burry them…”

“Mr. Arc there is no time for this! We have to go, they’re getting away!”

“I’ll never get to say goodbye…”

“Mr. Arc!”

“First, Pyrrha… then Qrow… Now Ren and Nora… W-Why…?”

“Mr. Arc forget about them!”

“F-Forget…? How could I do that…?”

“We must hurry! Salem agents are getting away! We must catch them before they escape! After that you can avenge your friends later!”

“But, Salem and her agents didn’t killed them…”

“W-What…?”

“You killed them… you killed everyone… every single person whose ever taken a part in this war, or has suffered from it… you killed them, whether it was directly or indirectly… You. Killed. Them…”

“Y-You’re seriously blaming this whole war on me?! Mr. Arc are you mad?!”

“Why not Oscar… or is it Ozpin, Ozma? I can’t tell anymore…”

“Because Salem’s started this war! Her minions strike and destroy everything we’ve built, ever will build, killing millions in the process!”

“But you fired the first shot though…? You tried to run away with the kids, then you attacked Salem. Ruby told me. Oobaleck always said that the one who fired the first shot is always the instigator in any conflict. And that was you… You could have talked it out, yet here we are… surrounded by the dead of millions…”

“I may have done that, but she would have never listened to me!”

“How do you know, you never asked after all?”

“Because it was the right thing to do! I know what I’m doing is right and everyone who fought along side me knew that our fight was a righteous fight!”

“It’s hard to justify that you have the moral high ground when you’re standing on corpses. Tell me, are you colour blind? I know some people can’t see red, and it feels like you’re covered in it, but you can’t see it…”

“Mr. Arc that is the most inane argument I’ve… Dammit! They got away! Are you happy now Mr. Arc?!”

“No… I can’t remember the last time I was…”

“This argument is pointless! We must leave and regroup. We can…?!”

“Where do you think you’re going?”

“Mr. Arc… put the sword down.”

“Why should I do that…?”

“Because we have more pressing matters to attend to. Avenging your friends for starters.”

“But, I am avenging them.”

“The why are you stopping me?! The Bullhead they escaped on just got away we need to hurry and catch them!”

“Didn’t you hear me? Salem didn’t kill them, you did, their blood and everyone else’s blood, is on your hands…”

“Their blood is on Salem’s hands not mine!”

“No, it’s on yours, you can’t wipe your hands of this Ozpin. I’ve seen you pull the trigger too many times. And for that to end, I must stop you, once and for all…”

“Don’t bother Mr. Arc, you know it won’t even matter!”

“True, You’ll just jump into another body, and steal their life from them… So I can’t kill you…”

“See Mr. Arc, this fight is…”

“But, as my granddad always said… ‘If you can’t kill them, cripple them…”

///

“Excuse me, My Lady…?”

“Yes, what is it, Watts?”

“You have a guest… and he brought you… a gift…”

“I have a guest…? Who also brought me a gift…? Well… this is certainly interesting. Bring them in.”

“Are you, Salem?”

“Yes, I am. And you are…?”

“Jaune… Jaune Arc… You know… You’re not as scary as Ozpin made you out to be… far more beautiful actually…”

“Flattery will get you no where boy.”

“Is it flattery to speak the truth? I could never tell…”

“You’re the odd one boy…”

“Most broken things are a bit odd…”

“To a point… So, tell me, why are you here and what is this gift you brought me.”

“I’m here to end your war with Ozpin, and the gift to you will see to that…”

“How would your gift do that. That box is rather big, tell me, is it a relic, some sort of bomb that you’ve brought me?”

“Neither, my Lady.”

“Then what is it…?”

“Owwww…”

“O-Ozma… Y-You brought me, Ozma?! Haha…? Hahahahahahaha…!!! By the Gods! How did you ever manage to do that?!”

“Cripples can’t run fast, my Lady.”

“Well, that explains the legs… I must ask, I was aware you are… were, once his ally; why betray him so?”

“He killed them.”

“Killed who?”

“Pyrrha, Ren, Nora. The people in Atlas, in Vale, in Vacuo, Minstrel. Everyone whoever was and maybe anyone who ever will be. He killed everyone and no one, their blood is on his hands, but he can’t see it. I wonder if he ever cared for the blood he spilt. From what I gather, he didn’t feel even anything when he killed your children.”

“Y-You blame the death of my children… on him…?”

“You may have played a part in their death, that is undeniable. But, he tried to take them away from you, he fired the first shot. He started this war… Everything is his fault…”

“ … “

“ … “

“Ozma… what have you done…?”

“Wh-What I thought… W-Was right!”

“I wasn’t referring to that, what ever it was… I was referring to this boy… You’ve broken him… and you can’t see that you have. I have seen many a broken soul, I have fixed them, gave them a purpose. But in all the time I’ve walk upon Remnant, I have never seen a person as broken as this poor boy before me… What did you do?!”

“It’s pointless to ask, his own moral superiority makes him blind to the suffering he’s committed. So long as his goals are achieved, the world can burn for all he cares…”

“His desperate attempts to stop me as of late seem to suggest to me that he cares little for the welfare of others…”

“And like you do Salem! How many have you killed… in this war you started!”

“I wanted to take over the world… force the peace and the balance the Gods so desperately wanted on every living soul there is. But you wanted them to have free will. In the last several thousand years they’ve had their precious free will and they have used that free will to enslave and murder one another with reckless abandon. And you’ve only achieved ‘peace’ in the last century, and even that fell apart within a fortnight. As many as I have killed, they pale in comparison to yours…”

“You’re a monster… Salem!”

“But who made me one… and who made you one…? Haa… this arguing is pointless… We’re at war because we couldn’t agree on anything to begin with! Now… I haven’t had the pleas of killing you in thousands of years… I’m going to enjoy this…!”

“No my Lady, you can’t! Not yet at least!”

“And why not, you’ve proven your worth, you’ve brought me my greatest enemy before me, broken and defeated. Why can’t I kill him here and now?”

“Because he knows everything! Where the relics are, how to get them, the strength of the surviving cities. Who will lead them next! Who knows what else he knows, but he knows it! He’s more valuable to you alive than dead! Because as long as he is alive and is your prisoner, there is no one in the world who will be able to stop you!”

“T-Traitor!!!”

“My oh my oh my… You are far greater than I expected! Never have I ever had someone serve me as well as you have and in such a short time at that.”

“You’re too kind my Lady…”

“My Queen.’ I am a Queen after all.”

“Of course, forgive me, My Queen.”

“Hmm… Hazel… you have the most recent grievance from Ozma; why don’t you… soften him up for me.”

“With extreme pleasure…”

“Now, the rest of you, leave us, I want to have a moment to myself with our newest member.”

“As you wish, my Queen…”

“ … “

“ … “

“Now tell me, Jaune Arc; just who are you, my Valiant Knight~”

[incursionparagon]

For however much a gossipmonger Cordelia wasn’t, it always surprised her just how many rumors still touched the ears of both a professor and a knight such as herself -- and one who did not seem to ‘rank highly’ on approachability, or so she had heard from a student whose face had quickly turned white when they’d turned.  (They still fumbled in class now and again, that one; did she truly seem so severe?) 

More surprising still was to have a rumor brought up to her in her very own class, a particularly sociable student asking her during a lesson on flight and balance if the same rules applied to the white-winged birds that had appeared in the mountains. The question had passed over without incident, but in its wake the students filing from her class that afternoon had left whispers of birds bigger than horses with feathers dipped in gold. It had not come up again since, but the curiosity that followed was not so courteous a guest. 

So it was that the rider of winds wended her way through foliage and underbrush that had long since forgotten the touch of the breeze. Was it a mountainside forest like this, she wondered, where her dear Aurora had first been tamed? Or had she ever even known the wild? Perhaps she should have brought her along for the journey; not wanting to startle the kinshi nor consign her friend to a woodland trek, the knight had left her pegasus in the stables. Now, however, it was awfully lonely... 

Then, as if to answer the wistful sigh not yet even fully past her lips, a cry rang through the sky, and another to meet it in turn. They were near, then; she made to turn, to draw closer to the summit and in so doing find her (hopeful) future friends-- only for something-- a voice-- to resound behind her. She turned, and there was a fleck of fire among the greenery, warm and welcome--

“You--”  “Ah, you--”

--a laugh gently tickled the hand that had risen to her lips. It was not what she had expected, certainly, but in a way she dared to think she had indeed found what she was looking for. 

“Indeed I have.” A pause, silence filled by a faint and gentle smile. “It’s good to see you again, Salem. I take it you haven’t seen them yet either?” She shifted there, a half step turned to look further up the ‘path’ (if it could be called that), though her attention returned to him quickly, and her head turned a fraction more. “As a pegasus knight myself, I was curious about the rumors. They should be nearby, if those cries are anything to go by. We could look for them together, if you’d like?”

From a Land of Old Gods [Salem & Cordelia]

Starter for @incursionparagon | [Flying +1]

If there was one thing that Salem had learned since his arrival at Garreg Mach monastery, it was that rumors traveled quickly - a symptom of close quarters and the freedom to talk for the sake of talking. It was easy to be in the know, even if one was detached from the center of it all, and Salem found himself knowledgeable about a great many things he hadn’t cared to know about in the first place. Who’s relationship ended with who. A professor’s penchant for bonus points. The number of cases of fish added to the pond that month. Nothing was too mundane for a conversation piece, and for the most part, Salem ignored it when he could.

So as he walked the winding, leaf-littered path through the mountains behind the monastery, he wondered idly what rare impulsiveness had spurred him to leap at one rumor. Supposedly great birds had come to roost nearby and the varied stories the students told to one another seemed to agree on one thing: they were of an elegance unseen in the wilds of Fodlan. In fact, they were not found in any of the library’s encyclopedias because - said the rumors - they were gods descended from another heaven. That was enough to convince Salem to gather up his notebook and ink, and trek out into the woods in search.

A cry rose up over the trees in the distance, and a second answered. Salem stopped to listen, though it made little difference to one who was as untrained in identifying birds as he was. He couldn’t tell if it was a native call in this forest, so he pressed onward in pursuit. The trail tapered off into wilds before long, forcing him to pick his way through scraggly underbrush and dense leaf litter as he climbed the gentle slope of the mountain. If so few people had walked this path that their feet could not clear a way before the forest reclaimed it, then he had to be on the right track. That was what he hoped, anyway, and it was perhaps that wishful thinking that caused his heart to leap at the sight of vibrant red flowing between the trees ahead. He ducked down quickly and weaved from tree to tree as he neared the striking beauty that had caught his eye.

It was not a bird. He caught himself with his hand against the trunk of one of the trees. It was a person, perhaps still a god, but—

“You—“ His eyes brightened with recognition. “Cordelia? Would you perchance be seeking the kinshi as well?”

[fantomcomics]

What’s Out This Week? 10/12

Anything can happen on Hal-lo-ween It’s better than a vi-de-o Gremlins going to mess up every cas-sette From Lon-don to I-da-ho

Chilling Adventures Of Salem one-shot -  Cullen Bunn & Dan Schoening

Salem the Cat has always been known as Sabrina's familiar, but what happens when Sabrina's not around to protect him (or, as is more the case, when he doesn't have to protect her)? This special one-shot explores a different side of Salem's life, one in which he acts as an anti-hero enacting vigilante justice on those who hurt others like him... animals, in a horror story that's equal parts Pet Sematary and Hereditary.

Black & White: Tough Love At The Office GN Vol 1 -  Sal Jiang

Sparks (and fists) fly in this violent yuri love story. Shirakawa Junko is an upstanding employee of a high-level bank. Her colleagues all respectfully admire her... except for Kuroda Kayo, a colleague who's transferred to her department. Shirakawa is supposed to train Kuroda, and it does not go well. These women have a bizarre love-hate relationship that results in either violent office attacks or angry lesbian sex. When a sinister conspiracy seems to be afoot at their bank, can these two stop having bruised hate-sex on piles of documents and work together to investigate? This provocative LGBT+ drama is ready to rumble.

Approach #1 (of 5) -  Jeremy Haun, Jason A. Hurley & Jesus Hervas 

When airport employees Mac and Abigail find themselves snowed in after a blizzard, they witness a terrible plane crash. After pulling a survivor from the wreckage, they realize a terrifying truth: this plane has been missing for 27 years!

The nightmare has only just begun though, as the people trapped in the airport soon find themselves confronted by what this plane actually brought back.... For those with a fear of flying... it's not the sky that deserves dread, but what lies beyond it...

DanDaDan GN Vol 1 -  Yukinobu Tatsu

Momo Ayase strikes up an unusual friendship with her school's UFO fanatic, whom she nicknames "Okarun" because he has a name that is not to be said aloud. While Momo strongly believes in spirits, she thinks aliens are nothing but nonsense. Her new friend, however, thinks quite the opposite. To settle matters, the two set out to prove each other wrong-Momo to a UFO hotspot and Okarun to a haunted tunnel! What unfolds next is a beautiful story of young love...and oddly horny aliens and spirits?

Sensory: Life On The Spectrum GN -  Bex Ollerton

From artist and curator Bex Ollerton comes an anthology featuring comics from thirty autistic creators about their experiences of living in a world that doesn't always understand or accept them. Sensory: Life on the Spectrum contains illustrated explorations of everything from life pre-diagnosis to tips on how to explain autism to someone who doesn't have it, to suggestions for how to soothe yourself when you're feeling overstimulated. This book depicts these varied experiences with the kind of insight that only those who have lived them can have.

She Love To Cook, & She Loves To Eat GN Vol 1 -  Sakaomi Yuzaki

Cooking is how Nomoto de-stresses, but one day, she finds herself making way more than she can eat by herself. And so, she invites her neighbor Kasuga, who also lives alone. What will come out of this impromptu dinner invitation...?

Samurai 2.0 #1 (of 4) - Marcello Bondi & Mauro Gulma

The year is 21XX.  World War III has devastated the planet.  A foreigner arrives in the city of Neo-Tokyo. His name is Ketsuo, and he is the last remaining graffiti samurai, intent on clashing with the Emperor, who has prohibited any artform and persecutes anyone who dares to create.  In the year 2022, a series from Action Lab arrives at Antarctic Press, where we dare to create!

Legacy Of Violence #1 -  Cullen Bunn & Andrea Mutti

A Legacy of Violence, by masters of horror Cullen Bunn and Andrea Mutti, with letters by Rus Wooton, follows Dr. Nick Shaw; an honest doctor just trying to help people. But one day, when a patient gets out of control, Nick suddenly begins recalling past memories he had kept hidden away. That's when he decides to join Doctors Without Borders and heads straight for Central America. But his past still comes calling. With a serial killer on the loose in the small town of Disante, Honduras, Nick's flashbacks begin to intensify-and become clearer. Was Nick meant to go to Honduras? Is this all part of the killer's plan? Find out what Nick has been repressing all these years and why.

Hyperventilation GN - Bboung Bbang Kkyu

Myongi and Sunho haven't seen each other since they were 18 years old. Now 27, they run into one another at a high school reunion, and the romantic feelings they had for one another come rushing to the surface. But are they the same people now that they were back then?

Hitomi #1 (of 5) -  H.S. Tak, Isabella Mazzanti & Valentina Napolitano

In Feudal Era Japan, a drifter with no prospects begins training in secret under Yasuke, a once-famous, displaced, disgraced warrior, as she struggles to find her place in a society entrenched in discrimination and violence.

Combining the historical sweep and elegance of Kurosawa with the visceral action of Tarantino, this saga follows the trials and tribulations of a young female warrior who travels the countryside unendingly as she works to gain the rank of Samurai-a title no man, monster, or myth can give to her, but one that she will have to take for herself.

Slumber TP Vol 1 -  Tyler Burton Smith, Vanessa Cardinali, Simon Robins & Becky Cloonan

We all have nightmares. What if you could pay somebody to enter your dreams and shoot that nightmare in the goddamn face? That's where Stetson comes in. She's a nightmare hunter. A dream detective. She enters her clients' dreams through a door, investigates their dreamscapes, and kills their nightmares. But Stetson's past comes back to haunt her as she tracks down a nightmare serial killer responsible for the mysterious death of her daughter.

SHWD GN Vol 1 -  sono.N

A slick and action-packed yuri tale about two special agent women fighting supernatural horrors! The year is 20XX. Tough but idealistic Koga has just joined the Tokyo branch of SHWD, the Special Hazardous Waste Disposal unit responsible for eradicating mysterious biological weapons that were left behind after the great war. Her mentor is Sawada, a woman with a powerful psyche who complements Koga's physical prowess. Something is sizzling between the two of them, and it's more than just a shared mission. Together, these two badass women must team up to confront horrors beyond their wildest nightmares.

The Sword Of Hyperborea HC -  Mike Mignola, Rob Williams & Laurence Campbell

From the ancient warrior Gall Dennar, to Sir Edward Grey, to the B.P.R.D.'s Agent Howards, the iconic Hyperborean sword from the world of Hellboy has landed in many influential hands. And this has been no accident. Trace the sword's path through the adventures and encounters that finally brought it to Ragna Rok, at the end of the world, and witness the sword's journey through history.

Whatcha scooping up this week, Fantomites?