#BUT ALSO there is the halloween event that comes like a month after anni….. i would love to get those cards (esp wolf shiho)

[lagtrain]

idk which banner to save for next 😭

[strangeshadowdreamer]

"Venom 3" is in November 2020; Venom & Eddie knew each other only 3 months

and other stuff that refers to "Venom" movies timeline and was horribly messed up in the 3rd part

This is an answer to the post (https://www.tumblr.com/purplegazania/766419426998452224?source=share )

@purplegazania Hi! It's great that you pay attention to such details! But I’m afraid the events of "Venom 3" take place in 2020. But maybe «September 20» didn’t happen in their universe

And is definitely not June at all

In "Venom 2" we [film viewers] were shown that Eddie writes an article about Cletus Kasady. At the top of the app he is writing in a date was written. It is fuzzy, but recognizable: 10.29.20. You may need to search for high-definition video to see it yourself. I am not sure if tumblr compresses pictures in posts. It is a US style of date, so it stands for 29 th of October 2020. This is an exact date officially stated in the movie.

And we can also see that Eddie is also about to miss his deadline —  30th of October 2020. So the date was mentioned in two different places.

Probably, it’s one of the reasons why he was so irritated about Venom distracting him – Eddie had little time to finish his article.

It is the night when they come to Mrs. Chen for chocolate, deal with that bag robber and receive a phone call from Ann. They arrange to meet with Annie «Tomorrow night», which is 30th of October night. And at the night after this one they have a fight and Venom runs away. It is the 31st of October night. It is substantiated by the fact that Venom turns up at a costume party, which actually is Halloween. (I noted that in my post earlier https://www.tumblr.com/strangeshadowdreamer/701134805977432064/venom-at-halloween-party?source=share )

Here is the timeline for «Venom 2»

And then things start to happen really fast. Frances Barrison and Cletus unite, kidnap Ann and the whole scene at the Grace Cathedral happens. Pretty long night, huh

So back to the question about Christmas in June

Events in "Venom" (2018) take place in early autumn or late summer, judging by the leaves on trees (but definitely really late summer as weather is a bit chilly - Eddie wears a coat, and I think it's not that chilly in California in the middle of summer, so I believe it to be early autumn).

And now when I put together the early autumn at the end of «Venom» (2018) and 29-31 of October events of «Venom 2» it seems like a month period. And it fits. This time period is just perfect length.

This time period is short enough to explain why Venom and Eddie’s relationship is so raw (because they spent like a month together only)

And this time period is also short enough to explain why with such different attitudes towards life (I mean quiet journalism and «Living in peace» VS «fighting bad guys and eating them») haven’t let to a major quarrel before the events of «Venom 2» - because it was like a month long and they were just patient and accumulated the irritation

And this period is long enough to explain Ann’s phrase about her being sorry for not returning Eddie’s calls because she needed some time after «Alien biting a guy’s head off thing». I think that judging from Ann’s character a month is just long enough time for her to recover from what happened

Events in "Venom 2" take place around Halloween (I have already explained that above). And it seems to me that Eddie and Venom fled from San Francisco within a few days after the fight in Grace Cathedral. That is because if police blame Eddie for that, Venom and Eddie wouldn't have stayed in San Francisco significantly longer in order not to get caught. Plus, police call a helicopter, so they consider stuff happening in the Cathedral really serious and will waste no time looking for Eddie. So, between Grace cathedral scene and the beach scene, barely a few days passed.

And again, it feels like only a few days passed between the the beach scene and that scene where they were watching a tv show and teleportations started. So «Venom» (2018) and «Venom 2» are fully time-coordinated.  But let’s put a bookmark here🔖

It seems to me that 0 days passed since that first teleportation of theirs until the events of "Venom 3". And the events of «Venom 3» happen within just a few days.

It all happened pretty soon after 31 st of October, therefore, in November (which is pretty warm in Mexico). I mean, I talk about a period measured in DAYS between «Venom 2» Cathedral scene and «Venom 3» events. So, between that Halloween party in "Venom 2" and events of "Venom 3" about a few days passed. Let’s say a week. -> 31st of October + week = beginning of November. And that makes it a perfect time to wear a Christmas tree pin (Christmas is on 25th of December), but makes all the characters’ phrases about time nonsensical.

Lets return to the bookmark. 🔖 Basically, time between the beach scene and tv watching scene is the only gap where a few additional six (6!) months can theoretically be pushed into. But do you really think that Eddie and Venom spent a part of November, a whole December, January, February, March, April, May and some part of June in Mexico between the beach scene and that scene where they were watching a tv show and teleportations started? This is too much of a stretch to me, because:

Their relationship didn’t change at all, just as they didn’t communicate all the suggested half a year in Mexico. But if they did spend half a year in Mexico, I believe that they would have improved their relationship, and this would have been visible, especially after the progress they’ve made in «Venom 2»

They stayed in a small, quiet place in Mexico (for the obvious reason of (a) hiding from police and (b) finding a place with not many people so that Venom could show himself outside without causing panic or attracting unwanted attention). Venom would have gotten bored there really quickly.

2.1) Venom spent like a month (between Drake’s rocket explosion and «Venom 2» [early autumn] and fight at the apartment [31st of October]) in busy San Francisco with all kinds of entertainment (playing video games (see https://www.tumblr.com/wonderingaroundsworld/704834634551328769/venom-and-eddie-have-gamepads-to-play-together?source=share ), adoring his chickens Sonny and Cher in their own small house (see https://www.tumblr.com/wonderingaroundsworld/704459258987757568?source=share ), helping Eddie with his job, visiting bowling multiple times (Venom while holding that bag robber said that he can use the robber’s head for bowling and asked Eddie to name the one that they like. Eddie replied: «Lucky strike») and lots of other stuff). I can’t imagine him being fine with sitting at the same spot for more than half a year. He would have quickly talked Eddie into going somewhere. For example, to New York. And this is exactly what he did in «Venom 3».

2.2) And Venom never complained that he had to do nothing and be stuck in the same place for half a year. He didn’t say anything like «We have been sitting here for more than half a year. Let’s go at least somewhere» when he suggested going to New York. I think that if Venom had to spend nearly ~6,5 months in a boring place, he would have used it as an argument to persuade Eddie to leave the place.

This is why ~6,5 additional months don’t fit anywhere at all.

Here are approximate calculations

So

«Venom» (2018) takes place in early autumn, «Venom 2» on 29-31 of October, post credits scenes occur within a week starting from 31st of October, «Venom 3» events take a few days, therefore are approximately in November.

«Venom 3» can’t be taking place in June

Eddie and Venom have known each other for like three months

[gcantread]

July 2024 reads

[loved liked ok nope dnf bookclub*]

^borrowing this format from @ofliterarynature—hope that's ok!

The Blue Castle • The Metamorphosis • A Reaper at the Gates • And Then There Were None • I'm Afraid You've Got Dragons • To Be Taught, If Fortunate • The Mysterious Affair at Styles • Till We Have Faces • This Ravenous Fate • Here Lies a Vengeful Bitch • Dragonhaven • [title withheld; SMP] • The Name of the Wind • Better Left Buried • The Body in the Library • Rose Daughter

My biggest reading month so far in terms of quantity, though only third-biggest in terms of "pages" (which I think is a bad metric anyhow—you can typeset them so differently! I wish every book told me its word count.) I read a lot of books in order to see if they're worth reading in @bellasbookclub for the 2024-2025 season, plus I was doing the BBC summer reading challenge! I also devoured my way through several ARCs coming out in August.

The Blue Castle ★★★★★ - I reread this once or twice per year at this point. This time around I read it to @flowerslut and we had a blast! Still the ultimate comfort read.

The Metamorphosis ★★★☆☆ - Also with Shannon (we listened to the audiobook on the way to and from San Diego!) Figured it was high time I actually read this if I was gonna go around calling things "kafkaesque." Somehow exactly what I expected.

And Then There Were None ★★★★☆ - Pre-screened for book club! So I don't wanna say too much other than "I liked it."

I'm Afraid You've Got Dragons ★★★☆☆ - Disappointing. Plot was a bit all over the place and it was difficult to sympathize with the main characters. A shame, because I like the premise!

To Be Taught, If Fortunate ★★★★☆ - Read for the BBC 2024 Summer Reading Challenge. Fun and reflective! This was my first time reading Becky Chambers, and I liked the writing style and themes.

The Mysterious Affair at Styles ★★★1/2☆ - Another book club pre-screen. A solid mystery.

Till We Have Faces ★★★★☆ - Yet another book club pre-screen. My best friend's favorite book and now I can totally see why.

This Ravenous Fate ★★★☆☆ - An ARC I got signed by the author after seeing her speak on a panel about YA and romance. Unfortunately a huge letdown, possibly because I had such high hopes for the premise of "queer Black 1920s vampire x human." Alas, it had some cool vampire lore but was overall a convoluted mess and not nearly 1920s-enough!

Here Lies a Vengeful Bitch ★★★★☆ - Another ARC I got from the same event and liked much better. Cool Jennifer's Body-esque premise, snappy voice, and a fun protagonist in the murdered and vengeful Annie. Perfect Halloween vibes!

Dragonhaven ★★★★☆ - Also pre-screened for book club so I shouldn't talk too much about it but I can't help myself (@ book club LOOK AWAY) I wasn't expecting much from this book because I've heard Robin McKinley fans voice their disappointment in it, but it turns out I'm the exact niche target audience for this. National Park politics and conservation science struggles and zookeeping?? I'm seated. I can see why others didn't like the pacing, but I was nodding along like "Yes, the difficulty of procuring grad students to come study dragons, of course. Do go on"

[title withheld; SMP] - I didn't realize this was an SMP book until I was halfway through it. Oops. A shame they still don't have their act together, because I'd love to talk about this one.

The Name of the Wind ★★★★★ - A title I've heard raved about a million times by a zillion people, so naturally I picked it as one of my BBC 2024 summer reading challenge books to see if it lived up to the hype. IMO it does! Fun, poetic writing style, cool framing device, and interesting worldbuilding and magic system. Curious to read the sequel.

Better Left Buried ★★★☆☆ - Another ARC. Cute queer YA murder mystery that I honestly don't have much to say about other than "it was cute."

The Body in the Library ★★★1/2☆ - And another book club pre-screen book. My first Miss Marple! Mostly elevated by having an interesting ending twist and class themes.

Rose Daughter ★★★☆☆ - And to no one's surprise, my final book of the month was also pre-screening for Bella's Book Club. Very pretty writing and it was fun to read while wearing a bit of rose oil (smell-o-vision!) but I didn't loooove the pacing and overall prefer Robin McKinley's other Beauty and the Beast retelling, Beauty.

DNF

A Reaper at the Gates (50%) - I sprinted through book 1 and walked sedately through book 2 of the Ember in the Ashes series, but this one (book 3) was taking me forever to read (and is almost 700 pages), and I was impatient to move on and read other stuff. Reaper at the Gates was decently interesting and I still care about the characters, but the timing just wasn't right. Will probably pick this series back up later.

July superlatives

[theteasetwrites]

The Beginning Is the End Is the Beginning

Chapter 96: There's No Place Like Home

❧ Pairing: Daryl Dixon x Female Reader ❧ Era: Season 11 ❧ Pronouns: she/her ❧ Warnings: language, violence ❧ Word Count: 5.6k

❧ In This Chapter: You've finally returned to Alexandria, but it isn't all sunshine and rainbows. The Commonwealth has taken over, and it will take some sweat, blood, and tears to get it back. Emphasis on the blood.

❧ A/N: Happy New Year! And man, we don't have very many chapters of this series left... I am hoping it will end at Chapter 100 (nice, satisfying number), but we will see how well that works out. I am hoping to also include some sm*t before the end... Just for old time's sake. Lots of exciting stuff coming up. By the way, please ignore the fact that in the show, it is snowing during the windmill scene. Idk what the writers were thinking, but they clearly fucked up the timeline because in the show, there is a Halloween event (which is obviously in October), and then it cuts to 6 months later, so there's a six month time jump, and that means that all this should technically be happening in APRIL, and it doesn't snow in April so I am just imagining it's April for my own sanity ok? And because I want Wes to be an Aries thanks.

You had watched through Daryl’s binoculars, sitting idly by as Negan struggled against the Commonwealth soldiers that tackled him. You were home now, on the outskirts of Alexandria, but security was high, and brutal. 

You didn’t much care for Negan getting beaten, you had to admit. Some old wounds would never heal, and as much as you tried to reserve sympathy for him, it was difficult. What worried you, however, was Ezekiel, Nabila, Princess, Kelly, Connie, Magna, even Negan’s wife, Annie. What worried you most, of course, were the children. 

The town had been turned into what you could only describe as a labor camp, with a redheaded man in a dark grey coat barking orders to exhausted workers as soldiers stood by menacingly with their rifles in hand. You didn’t see the children. Wherever they were, it couldn’t be much better than this. 

You and Daryl met back up with the others, further outside the walls, where you couldn’t be seen by the guards. 

Maggie was disturbed by the news, and even more disturbed to hear that the children were nowhere to be seen from yours and Daryl’s vantage point. “But they have to be there, right?” 

You met her gaze, releasing a heavy sigh. You were about to speak before Rosita spoke for you. “Okay, we need to go in now.”

“We can’t,” replied Daryl. “There’s too many guards. We’ll never make it.”

“So, she turned our home into a prison,” said Gabriel. “After promising to give it back.”

“She never planned to give it back,” said Maggie. 

“Wait,” you said, an idea suddenly coming to you. “The sewers, we can go in through the sewers, right?” You lifted your gaze to meet Daryl’s, who seemed to follow your line of thinking. “Like before, when the Saviors attacked. You escaped through the sewers.”

“Yeah,” he said with a nod. “Good idea. You and me, down shit tunnel.”

How romantic. 

The group split, with Maggie and Carol taking the south sewer, you and Daryl taking the north. Gabriel and Rosita stayed on lookout outside the walls, much to Rosita’s dismay. You understood that—she wanted to get to her baby as soon as possible, so did you. 

So you told her that if you got to the kids first, you’d be sure to check in on Coco, to make sure she was safe and healthy. It wasn’t much, but it was all you could do. 

Daryl climbed down first, shining his flashlight down on the tunnel floor. It always made you nervous, watching him go first into dangerous situations. Still, he always insisted.

“Be careful!” you whisper-yelled down to him, yourself shining your own light on his hands as they moved down the rungs of the ladder. “Watch out for walkers.” As much as you trusted Daryl to be smart, you were always going to worry about him a little too much. 

“Shh!” He held his finger over his pursed lips, then let go of the last rung to drop feet first on the ground. He held up his hands to beckon you. “C’mon!” he whisper-yelled back. “Ain’t got all day.”

You rolled your eyes as you turned to climb down. “What’s it like down there?”

“Smells like shit.”

You stepped on the fifth rung down, now catching a whiff of said shit. “Besides that.”

“Dark and wet.”

You gave up asking by the time you got down, but now you could see it for yourself. Indeed, it was dark, wet, and it did smell like shit. 

“This way,” said Daryl, pointing towards the beam of the flashlight that illuminated the tunnel. l. “I’ll go first, stay behind me.” 

You ignored him, walking alongside him instead. 

He huffed, shining his light just below your face. “You never listen ta me,” he said. 

You tilted your head and made a sour face. “And you always baby me.”

“Pfft…” Well, he wasn’t going to deny it. He did baby you, but it was for a good cause. “Jus’ be careful.”

The two of you silently stalked the length of the tunnel for a while, until you stumbled upon an overgrown maze of leafy vines hanging from the sewer grate just overhead. Entangled in those vines was a walker, flailing its arms and growling as the two of you approached with your flashlights trained on its rotting face. 

“How the hell did it get down here?” you asked. 

Daryl spared no time, bending over to begin clearing out the overgrowth with a series of grunts. You followed his lead to help make a path. “Musta found its way in ‘ere somehow. Got all tangled up.”

The walker’s sounds got louder the closer Daryl got, until his knife plunged into its head, ending its growling and flailing. He shined his light further, making sure that was the only one. “S’all clear now,” he said. “Come on, this way.”

You trudged through the brush, grabbing Daryl’s hand when he lent it to you. The path was still not quite stable, though, and a wrong step between the branches caught the toe of your boot, causing you to stumble. 

Daryl’s grasp tightened, with his other hand grabbing your other wrist to keep you steady. You didn’t fall, but you stumbled enough for a flash of white to cascade from your coat pocket. All you had in there was your photo, as you always kept at least one with you. 

“Oh, no.” 

You turned to frantically search through the leaves, while Daryl looked on in confusion as he held his flashlight with the beam concentrated on your hands. “What is it?”

“Nothing, just…” You found the polaroid nestled among a few leaves, and you sighed in relief. “Thank God.”

You turned the photograph over in your hands, revealing the face of your daughter. She smiled wide, with Dog posed beside her as her arm wrapped around his neck. That photo was an older one, taken a few summers ago. Robin wore her favorite white linen overalls, decorated with daisies lovingly embroidered by you, and her floppy brown gardening hat. Even Dog sported a yellow bandana tied loosely around his neck, with his tongue hanging out to the side as his mouth humorously curled into a wide grin. 

Robin’s eyes looked so blue here, like two little sapphires shining between caramel colored bangs that hung a little too low on her forehead. You remembered trimming them not too long after you took that photo. 

You slathered her exposed skin in sunblock that day, making sure she didn’t get any burns. Her skin was sensitive, like yours. She burnt easily, but when she rubbed her eyes that day, the sunblock seeped in, irritating her. She came up to Daryl crying, her fists balled up in her eyes as she rubbed them in an attempt to get the sunblock out. You were bringing out the lemonade, and Daryl dropped his hot dogs to see what was wrong with the little girl. The poor thing sobbed so much she couldn’t make out any words, and you came out onto the front porch to see Daryl in a parental panic, Robin bawling her eyes out, and Dog feasting on sausages. 

At least you had gotten that photograph before all Hell broke loose. You had managed to get your two children to sit upon the porch of your home in Alexandria, taking a break from playing in the unforgiving midsummer heat of Virginia. It was nothing compared to Georgia, Daryl always reminded you, but it was all Robin had ever known, until you left. 

We never should’ve left. 

“Hon?”

You sniffled, holding back a few tears. After all these years, you still couldn’t stop yourself from crying. Everyone else had gotten so good at it, it seemed. Sometimes, you wondered if you had gotten even more sensitive. 

“It’s… I forgot I put this in my pocket.” You chuckled slightly under your breath, just now noticing how filthy Dog’s paws were from digging holes and trying to catch gophers. “Sorry.”

You reached down to return the photograph to its home, but Daryl’s hand stopped you, gently holding your wrist. “Let me see.”

With another sniffle, you held it out to him, and he took it in his own hands. “She was so little,” he said, his lips quirking into the slightest crooked smile. “Even Dog looks younger.”

“They’re precious,” you said, your voice beginning to falter. “I wish… I wish I’d taken one of Wes before we left.”

He looked up to study your face, now with one tear running down your cheek. You quickly brushed it away, sniffling again. 

“We should keep going,” you said. 

“Wait a sec.”

Odd. Daryl was usually the impatient one of the two of you, and though neither of you wanted to spend more time in this stinking hole, Daryl couldn’t go on with you like this. He didn’t have to ask. He knew what it was.

“We’ll find ‘em,” he said. “We will.” As he held out the photograph to hand it back to you, he cupped your hand over his, as if Robin’s portrait was protected by both of you. Well, it was. She was, so was Wes. 

“H-how do you know?”

His eyes softened in the way they only could for you, his angel. “I just do.” He let your hand go, so you tucked your photo back into your pocket. When your eyes looked back up at him, he rested a hand on the spot where your neck met your shoulder. His thumb reached up to rub your cheek, where his touch warmed you. 

“Dad instincts,” he added with a smile, much to your amusement. A small chuckle erupted from you, but it was bittersweet. 

“You’re such a good dad.”

He could feel himself beginning to choke up, your emotions and your words overwhelming him, too. The empathy link between you and him was always strong, to the point that your hurt was his hurt, and vice versa. Not only that, but he was terrified, too. Still, one of you had to be strong for the other now. 

“And you’re a great mom.”

“No,” you said, though you leaned into his touch. “I tried… I tried not to let them take them away.” Guilt washed over you then, and he could feel it, like it was flowing from your body into his from the point where his hand touched your cheek. 

He pulled you in, against his body. His arms formed a protective barrier around you, as they always did. His pride was in keeping you safe, like you were entrusted to him forever. It was a great responsibility to protect the most precious thing in the world, to love her and make her happy as much as he could, but he was never one to give up easily. Besides, loving you was easy. It came naturally to him. 

“I know.” He let his chin rest upon your head, while his hands smoothed over the ripples in your coat on your back. “I know you wouldn’t just let ‘em get taken. You did what ya could.”

“It wasn’t enough.”

“Hey, I lost the kids, too. They jumped us. Hell, you just had a baby. You weren’t in any condition to fight back, you know that.”

He pulled back, but you still looked down. His hand came up to hold your chin, lifting it until you were forced to face him. Your eyes were weighed down by tears tugging at your waterline, threatening to trickle down your reddened cheeks. Your lips quivered slightly as you tried to hold it together, for him. He was always so strong for you, you had to try to be strong for him, too, even if he had strength for the both of you.

“If we… lose them—”

“Stop it.”

“But we could—”

“No.” Both hands held your cheeks again, this time with more pressure. Not too much, but just enough to let you know he was serious. “Listen to me. There ain’t no damn use in thinkin’ about what might happen or what might be happenin’. All we gotta think about right now is how we’re gonna find ‘em, and what we gotta do to find ‘em. I know you ain’t ever gonna stop worryin’, ‘cause that’s just who you are, and I love you, but you gotta trust me.”

You gotta trust me stuck with you.

“I trust you… Do you trust me?”

“You know I do, angel.”

You held him back, squeezing him as hard as you could, like a human stress ball. “I love you, Daryl Dixon.”

He took advantage of the space where your neck was exposed to leave a small kiss there. “I love you, too… And when all this is over, I’m takin’ you somewhere nice.”

You turned to face him with a weak chuckle as you wiped away the last of your tears. “What?”

“Like a vacation.”

Sometimes, Daryl surprised you. It was a rare occurrence, since Daryl was always rather predictable, which you liked, but there were times like these where his impulsiveness would come out, perhaps just to distract you momentarily from your worries. He knew exactly how to do so. 

“A vacation?” you asked. “There’s no such thing. You used to say that vacations were impossible now.”

“Yeah, but… What if we just get on the bike and go? Ain’t gotta be far, just a little ways away, just you and me.”

You shook your head in playful dismay. “Daryl Dixon,” you said, “you seem to be forgetting that we have no less than four children we are currently responsible for, two of which are our children, one of which is a baby.”

“Well, we wouldn’t be gone long… And we could wait till Wes is older, when everythin’ calms down. Maybe things will be better again, like they were before.” He studied his surroundings, the dark tunnel in which you were standing, which wreaked of putrid musk. “Now let's get outta this shithole, and get our kids back.”

By the time you raised the sewer grate, stepping out clandestinely inside the walls of Alexandria, it was dark. With only two flashlights to lead the way, you immediately recognized where you were. It was the middle of Morgan Street, your street. 

It was empty, though, too empty for comfort. 

“Where is everybody?” you whispered. “The guards…” You trailed off as the beam of light you held in your hand illuminated a distant house, its windows dark inside and the familiar rose bushes you had once kept so meticulously pruned were gone, ripped from the recently tilled dirt that once housed their roots. “Daryl.”

He turned to follow your eye line, and sadness welled within him like a tidal wave. The house was repaired to some extent, but it looked so different now. It looked dreary, empty. The home he’d made with you was no longer boisterous and full of life. 

He could still hear the patter of Robin’s little feet upon the hardwood floor as Dog chased her. 

He could still smell your potpourri experiments, cloves and oranges and magnolias and lavender and rose and whatever else you could get your hands on. 

He could still feel your weight leaning into his chest as he held you, sitting upon the couch as a roaring fire crackled in the fireplace, keeping you both warm into the wee hours of the morning, when he’d more often than not carry you upstairs to your bed. 

He could still remember watching Robin help Lydia with her homework, the girls’ hushed voices concentrating on their assignments as you looked on proudly.

So many memories in that house, so many voices had been carried in its walls. Voices of people long past… Old friends no longer here to see what this place has become, for better or for worse. 

What was once home was now just some house. 

Wordless sadness floated aimlessly between the two of you, but sadness didn’t get things done. Persistence did, and you were both persistent in your search for the children.

You didn’t have to slink around long before you saw it—in the center of town, just in front of the windmill, a small army of Commonwealth guards had gathered, along with what seemed to be all the prisoners. From the looks of things, they’d been woken up, taken by force to the square. 

Unfamiliar light posts had sprouted on either sides of the crops, spewing harsh, cold lights to illuminate the scene. The place was grey, sterile, a far cry from your memories. Alexandria had once been a bright, colorful place. It had once been a collage of eras, memories and moments in time that defined the settlement’s journey. 

There were the suburban townhouses and model homes from the old world, then the corrugated fence that kept out the dead, marking the beginning of the new world. When the fence was expanded, Alexandria grew, encompassing more land to build. Bare bones buildings put together with the most basic, yet sturdy, of materials dotted the place, giving it that craftsman charm you always admired. Nothing looked perfect, it was always built by hand, trial and error. The windmill you now gazed at was the biggest landmark. The majesty of it symbolized to you human innovation in the face of stagnation.

Now, it was covered in blood.

What shocked you more was the line of guards that stood with their guns held high, aiming to shoot at the people you knew—Ezekiel, Nabila, Princess, Magna, Connie, Kelly, Negan, Annie… 

They were making a stand. Of course they were. They were your people, and that’s what your people had always done. 

Ezekiel stood before them all, his arms outstretched in a gesture of protection. He spoke loudly, his voice reverberating in the night. “You don’t have to do this! This world is broken, but we don’t have to be!”

At the end of the firing line stood the red-haired man in the dark grey coat you’d seen earlier. He was in charge, you gathered, and he was the one who wanted your people dead. 

You noticed a movement in the firing squad, a soldier stepping out of line. The others lowered their weapons to see what was happening, as the soldier who stepped away raised his. 

He aimed for the man in charge, much to your shock. When another soldier attempted to shoot him, he shot back. 

The red-haired man scurried in a panic, grabbing poor Kelly as he held a pistol to her head, walking backwards as if to eventually make a run for it. 

“No!” shouted Magna. “Kelly! Kelly!”

The others held her back, as there wasn’t much to be done. If she moved, he’d kill Kelly. Luckily for you, you were behind him, wrapped around the other side of the windmill, and he was only inching closer. 

Daryl moved faster than you this time, procuring his knife as he moved past you, towards the man as he backed up into the darkness in which you were hiding. You were right behind him, your knife drawn, too, just in case.

You didn’t need it, of course. Daryl always aimed just right, plunging the blade into the base of the man’s neck where his spinal cord met his brain. He did it so coolly, with no emotion behind his eyes. You always knew that something shifted whenever Daryl went into that mode—he’d turn off his feelings for a split second, turn off any parts of him that might object to murder. What prevailed in those moments was his sense of justice, revenge, and order. If there was anything Daryl could do, it was kill.

Silence strangled out all the sounds of panic that began to fade. The man fell immediately after Daryl’s stab, no doubt losing all ability for his head to control his body. Kelly was embraced by her sister, and now you both stood before the others in a bittersweet reunion. 

Out in the crowd of other prisoners, there was no objection to the end of the tyrant’s rule. Even the other guards stood down, seemingly returning Alexandria to the people. 

But the taskmaster hadn’t been killed, not yet. Daryl had only paralyzed him, and he was on his way out, but he was still alive. Negan came forward, picking up the man by his jacket collar and dragging him out towards the crowd. He picked up a rock large enough to hold with two hands, and just before he struck him with the final blow to end the man’s misery, a voice called out.

“Negan!” Rosita burst forward as Gabriel flipped the man till he was facing up. “Don’t kill him!” she shouted. 

“Where’s my daughter?” She leaned over the man, grasping his collar as she yelled, “Where is she?!”

There was an unmistakable quiver in her voice, a kind of desperation and rage that only a mother looking for her child could have. He didn’t answer, not that you heard from the distance you stood, anyway. 

What you did hear, though, was the unmistakable wheezing and growling of a walker. Your head pivoted like a finely tuned machine, your hand instinctively grasping for the handle of your knife. The soldier that had been shot had turned, and the walker was slowly but surely rising to his feet. 

Rosita was faster, though. She tugged on the walker’s uniform, pulling him towards the nearly lifeless man’s body with a wild groan. 

She held the snapping, starving walker to the man’s face, shouting again, “Where the hell is she?! Tell me where she is!”

You could only look on, somewhere between understanding and horror. It sent a shiver down your spine—she hadn’t been able to find Coco, what if Robin and Wes weren’t there either?

Frozen in your fear, you only heard the red-haired man faintly say one phrase to Rosita. “You will lose everything.”

Just then, she dropped the walker, letting its teeth sink into the man’s face. “No! No! Ahh!”

Before you looked away, you saw the bright red flesh tearing away as the walker dined on his eye socket. No one made a move, not wanting to disturb the creature’s feast. It would have to be put down, but not only the man was made to suffer. 

You didn’t care now, though. With the man still screaming, you turned swiftly, only your children’s safety on your mind. 

“(Y/N)!” Daryl followed after you, his breath heavy as he tried to keep up.

“Not my babies,” was all you could reply, panting as you ran towards the nearest house, ready to raid each and every one. 

The townhouse you chose to search first looked lived-in with candlelight glowing in the window of the second floor. You hurried up the steps of the porch, knife drawn and ready to kill if anyone got between you and the children. 

Of course, Daryl tried to go in front of you, but, in an unusual display of roughness, you pushed him away with more force than he’d ever known you to have. You looked at him with wild, electric eyes, your hair falling out of your hat in an untamed mess. You didn’t have to say anything, he knew what you meant to say: I’m fucking going first. 

So you did, kicking open the front door with a grand crash. It was a far cry from your usual more subtle, quiet approach, but there wasn’t going to be any stopping you now. The soldier that almost immediately greeted you was caught off guard when your knife slit his forearm where the armor wasn’t covering. It caused him to drop his gun while you slit his thigh, sending him writhing in pain on the floor. 

It happened so fast that you lost conscious thought of the things you were doing, but Daryl watched your every move, making sure you didn’t make a wrong move. You quickly armed yourself with the soldier’s gun, wielding it as you inspected each room on the first floor, each empty. 

You huffed, blowing a stray strand of hair away from your face. Then, you heard what sounded like muffled, higher-pitched voices coming from the floor above. They were children’s voices, you knew that for sure. 

As you ran through the hallway, jumping over the writhing soldier to flee up the stairs, you began to hear the wailing of a baby. Warm tears flooded your vision, but you were steadfast in your search. You used your back to throw the first door open, holding the gun ready. 

When you laid your determined eyes on an eleven-year-old girl with long brown hair, they softened immediately. 

“Aunt (Y/N)!” Judith ran to you across the room. Her arms outstretched to hug you, so you dropped the gun and leaned down to receive her. 

You peered over her shoulder to see more familiar children—Nabila and Jerry’s kids, whose names you admittedly lost track of at times, were among them, with more you recognized from the Commonwealth. And, of course, RJ was in Daryl’s arms, but the reunion couldn’t last too long—Robin and Wes weren’t here, and the crying had stopped. 

“Judith,” you said, both sternly and with a tremble in your voice. “Where’s Robin and the baby?”

The crying began again, coming distinctly from across the hall. This time, Daryl moved first, knife drawn to slam through the door of the room where the crying came from. 

You followed behind, peering over his shoulder to see light brown-haired girl, cowering in the corner of the room and facing the wall, rocking back and forth with a bundle of something in her arms. You knew the back of her head anywhere, the shape of her little body. Her hair was tied in a low half-ponytail, and her knitted sweater of seafoam green was unquestionably the garment of your daughter. 

“Robin!” Daryl shouted out. 

She turned immediately, her face red and puffy from crying. Westley, bundled up in a sloppy swaddle, flailed his limbs and wailed in her arms. She must’ve been trying to keep him quiet, having heard the scary noises downstairs. 

“Daddy?!” she called out in confusion. “Mama!”

She lifted herself to her feet, still clinging to her infant brother, as you came forward, arms ready to snatch her up and never let her go. 

You couldn’t form words as you held her and the baby, all you could was cry tears of joy and relief. But, out of fear of squishing Wes, you loosened your hold on the child for a moment to delicately take the infant into your embrace. 

“He won’t stop cryin’,” she said with a sniffle of her own. “I was so scared, I thought…”

Daryl leaned down to hold her, and she lost of train of thought when she plummeted her head between his neck and shoulder. “S’all right,” he said quietly, his strong, warm hands gently rubbing her back. “Everythin’s all right now, birdie.”

Westley’s crying calmed intermittently as you rocked him, but he was hungry, and neglected. 

When Daryl left momentarily to touch base with the others, you stayed behind with the children. Maggie and Carol met up with you in that townhouse, where they’d brought Hershel, Gracie, and some more children that they’d found being held in one of the other houses. It was the biggest children’s sleepover you’d ever seen, though it was still a rather solemn night. 

Coco was still nowhere to be found, and a few other babies belonging to some of the Commonwealth prisoners weren’t there, either. It chilled you to the bone, and you wouldn’t be able to sleep that night. 

Daryl wouldn’t, either. He instead helped draw up a plan of attack with some of the others, planning on returning to the Commonwealth first thing come sunrise. They were going to get the rest of the children back, and they were going to take down Pamela for what she’d done, or tried to do. 

Though it would’ve been a great historical moment to witness, you stayed in the townhouse to help watch over the children, and to nurse Wes. Even Dog, who’d been chained up outside the house, seemed starved of attention, so you brought him in, and he welcomed you with a myriad of slobbery kisses.

It wasn’t until almost sunrise when Maggie paid you a visit, knocking gently on the door to the bedroom you’d planted yourself in. 

You smiled up at her, folding your blanket over Westley as he nursed. Robin laid next to you, her head using your belly as a pillow. She was curled up, tucking her legs into her chest as she slept soundly, small, dainty snores and little wispy breaths filling the air. As he slept on the foot of the bed, Dog’s snores helped create a strange little symphony. 

Maggie smiled back at you. “Sorry,” she whispered. “I didn’t know—”

“No, no,” you replied quietly. “You can come in… She’s a heavy sleeper.” You looked down at the sleepy baby, his heavy little eyes trying to stay open as he fed from your breast. “Oh, um… If it makes you uncomfortable, I can—”

“I’ve seen your tits before, (Y/N).”

Oh. 

You’d almost forgotten about that. When you live on the road with someone for so long, and in tight quarters at a place like the prison, you get to know everyone a lot more intimately. In other words, Maggie walked in on you changing or bathing more than once. 

“Right,” you laughed under your breath. “Come in, sit down.”

You gestured loosely to the armchair in the corner of the room. It sat beside of a small bedside table, upon which was a gas lamp that gave off a warm, dim glow in the dark morning mist. 

“I don’t think I got to properly meet this little one,” she said. “Westley?”

“Mhm… We’ve been calling him Wes for short. Well, Daryl likes to call him scout.” 

Maggie smiled, and sometimes you forgot just how beautiful and sweet her smile was. It could light up every room, you didn’t even need that old oil lamp. “That’s cute. Wes lucked out. He was born into a pretty great family.”

“Mm, a big family. So many aunts and uncles… I think Aunt Maggie is going to be a favorite, though.”

She shook her head. “Think Aunt Carol’s got that distinction, least with Robin.”

You reached a hand down to lightly caress Robin’s shoulder over the fleece blanket that Daryl had draped over her before he left. “Give it time,” you said. “Soon you’ll be her hero, I just know it.” You paused to adjust Westley, moving him to the other breast as carefully as you could so not to disturb Robin. “How’s Hershel?”

“He’s all right,” she sighed with a nod. “Sleepin’ like a baby. All of them are. Don’t think they got much sleep since they were taken.”

You didn’t think anyone would get much sleep until all this was over. You knew you wouldn’t. “Poor things. They’ve been through a lot.” You looked down at Wes, who’d now fully fallen asleep in your arms. You smiled and gently maneuvered him so you could button up your blouse. “He was so hungry.”

Maggie nodded solemnly, her serious side coming through again. “They’ll pay,” she said, even more quietly, just in case Robin or the other children stirred in their sleep. “For everything.”

“Maggie,” you said, “you were right not to trust them… I should’ve been more skeptical, I just—”

“You were doing what was best for your family,” she interrupted. “For Robin and the baby. You were thinking about them. Any mom would’ve done it.”

You looked confused, and you were. Wasn’t Maggie a mom too? “But you didn’t.”

“I was just doin’ what I thought was the best thing to do,” she said. “Now here we are, in the exact same place.”

“We’re home,” you said. “Did you ever think… when we came here, all those years ago, that we’d be here right now?”

“No,” she replied with a grin. “It’s so surreal. I—I remember how… how excited Glenn was.”

You remembered it, too. Glenn was one of the first people in your group to want Alexandria to be your home. He believed in it. He was the spark of humanity, reminding you all that you could no longer live on the road, always on the brink of starving and never able to turn your back. He wanted you all to have a home.

Alexandria had been through so much. So many people and so many things had been lost, but what always remained was Alexandria. 

“This place is special,” you said. “Glenn saw that.”

“He did… I miss him everyday.”

You untucked a hand from underneath the baby, who stirred a little, but soon settled back into sleep once your hand outstretched to hold Maggie’s. “We all do. He’d be so proud of you, and everything you’ve done.”

She sniffled as she bowed her head, nodding all the while. “You know, you’ve always been my best friend.”

Your face melted into touched surprise. It’d been years since she’d told you that. “You’re my best friend, too… We’ve come a long way since the farm, huh?”

“Yeah,” she laughed. “When you asked Glenn for…” She leaned in closer, whispering even lower. “Condoms.”

“Shh!” you laughed. 

“Coulda used a few more, huh?” She nodded her head towards the baby in your arms, and you nudged her with her elbow, shaking your head. You couldn’t help but smile, though. 

“Shut up.”

~

Thanks for reading! Likes, comments, and reblogs of any kind are always appreciated!

Series Masterlist Next Chapter ➳

[gucciwins]

Redemption

Harry is a fool and Y/N has a strong punch

Word count: 6586

A/N: Happy Halloween! (early/belated who knows when you’re reading) I love this month and I am very happy to share this with you. It was a true struggle to find time to write but here she is. AU’s are fun to explore so here is Frat! Harry. Please let me know what you think!

Hope you enjoy !

> > > > >

October 31st

Looking in the mirror, the only thing you can do is smile. The black lipstick looks foreign on your usual plain lips but you are proud in saying it looks nice on you. The dark eye shadow makes your eyes look a bit darker adding to the aura of the outfit you have. It all seems to fit together well. You here all the ruckus down stairs and know you don’t have much time left.  You grab your flowery credit card holder and slip it into the front of your pants because if the worst were to ever happen at least you would have identification on you.

You hear Nick and Carmen arguing over who was the best dressed. Nick was saying how it was him because he looked good with a red bandanna tied around his neck. Carmen response to him was that at least she was able to rock a safari hat. You didn’t want to hear any more arguing so you finally let your room.

“The pumpkin queen finally decided to grace us with her presence.” Nick yells with a big grin.

“It’s King still, doesn’t change just because I’m a woman.” You responded to him.

You looked down at your costume and were damn proud of it. The items were not at all easy to find but damn were you grateful you did. The white and black striped pants made your legs appear much longer and not to brag made your ass look real nice. Guess, the squat workout Nick makes you do does work. You got a white button up shirt tucked into your pants and it is covered by the matching blazer with two white buttons. It fits you perfect, well at least now it does after Carmen was kind enough to get her younger sister to do it for you. At no cost, but that didn’t seem fair to you so you gave her a thirty dollar gift card to Starbucks because that is what Annie seemed to live by. Your favorite piece that you were happy you were able to make was the beautiful bow tie. The famous bat bow ties fits perfectly and the long wings make it look even more elegant. A true Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington would be proud. Carmen even let you borrow her black ankle heeled boots and honestly you’re not sure your friend will see them again.

You give them a nice twirl making sure to strike a dramatic pose as you stop. It makes them laugh which makes you laugh as well. You look over at your two friends and honestly can’t decide who looks better and they both can see that.

“You’re really going to tell us, we both look equally hot.” Carmen whines not even caring what you want to say.

Nick interrupts before you even have a chance to answer. “Obviously, it’s me. I have always been the favorite.”

Your best friends have decided to dress up as Dr. Alan Grant, the most famous paleontologist to ever exist or so they like to say but only in the world of Jurassic Park. The blue wrangler long sleeve shirt is folded to their elbows, both wear loose fitting khakis. They both wear light brown timberland boots that they both somehow already owned. Aviator sunglasses hanging from their shirt adding a sexy element to the look. An old watch is found on Carmen’s left wrist but none is to be seen on Nick. Nick has the leather dress belt and that is what Carmen is missing. Red bandannas on as well as their safari’s hat and if you really had to choose it would be Nick because you like to think the belt complete the look.

“Where’s the belt?” You question.

Both look down immediately and Carmen is the one who lets out a small curse word you couldn’t quite make out. Carmen storms off into her room but is back in seconds now with a secured belt.

“The good thing is that this isn’t as contest so there is no winner but if there was it would be me for originality.” 

You pick up your keys from the cat shaped bowl by the door and finally walk out of the apartment. 

“You’re a bitch” Nick yells full of fake anger.

“You don’t even look good.” Carmen yells but you all know that’s a lie.

“I swear I’ll leave you both.” You threaten as the elevator door closes behind you. As you begin to descend you hear the grumbling as they rush down the stairs to meet you.

> > > > >

Sigma Pi 

The big name of the fraternity stared down at you as you make your way to the front door. This was one of the nicer known ones but just as everyone it holds its own reputation. The president is a friend of yours, Mitch Rowland. You had him for a psychology class and got paired to work together. He’s a quiet guy but well respected. He’s big on giving back to the university as well as the community. These guys have to do a minimum of twenty hours of community service a month which says a lot seeing as you’ve never seen any of the others do that. Mitch runs a tight ship but the same cannot be said about their vice president. 

Harry Styles, known player who takes girls on dates only to never call them back. He is the one to organize these big parties but also an Orientation leader. The first time you met Harry he was a sweetheart not one to fit into to frats, you would have gone on a date with him if only the second time you met him didn’t ruin that. 

It was the start of the year party and Nick dragged you along because he was thinking of pledging. You let yourself get wrapped up in that mess. At the party you spotted Harry and wanted to make your way over to him but stopped when you saw him with his tongue down a girls throat. You turned away and thought to approach him later except every time you saw him after he was kissing a new girl. As the night came to a close it was announced by their then president that Harry has passed his initiation by successfully kissing twenty different girls. Everyone cheered, but what surprised you was that each girl that kissed Harry was just as proud. Just you were leaving when Harry found you and asked you if you wanted to be lucky 21. Your response to this day cracked up your two friends. You told him, “Eat shit Harold, I don’t do sloppy seconds or in your case sloppy twenty.”

Carter was a terrible president and it did not surprise you when the fraternity got better with Mitch in charge in fact it is a big reason you started going to their parties more but it also reintroduced you to Harry. 

As you entered the house your eyes spotted one to many angles and devils. It’s really funny because each person you saw the costume just seemed to be getting shorter and shorter. Although as your eyes scanned the room you eyes caught sight of Sarah and Mitch who were dressed as Mia Wallace and Vincent Vega paying tribute to Sarah’s favorite film Pulp Fiction. Mitch caught your eye and you gave them a big smile and two thumbs up. He raised his red cup as a thank you. 

Carmen left your side as soon as you entered when she heard the shitty music that was being played. She always made playlists for them and got mad because they never asked her to DJ when they all know she saves their party each time. Within seconds the dance floor was full and all the grinding started which opened up a pathway to the kitchen. Nick left to go chat with a friend he saw sitting alone. 

You had to admit the decoration they had around the house was real nice. The stairs had bat stickers big and small looking as if they were going up. Then on the handrail orange lights were wrapped around. The couch had a white drape with red hand prints that made it look like blood which you thought was a smart idea. As you stood in the entryway of the kitchen leaf garland was hanging down and it looked very pretty. You wanted to take a picture with it behind you. Maybe later when you were with one of your friends who was able to take the picture. 

As you are serving yourself a drink some behind you calls out your name. You turn to the backdoor and there looking as handsome as ever is Harry. Gosh, that man always manages to look good without effort but you can tell today he did. 

“Where’s Sparky?” Harry questions you.

You sigh hopping he is just messing with you. “His name is Zero, thought a film snob would know that.”

“Now, now just because I’m a double major doesn’t mean I should be seen as only one of them.” He lectures you.

“Sure Harry, we would love to hear you brag about English and Film but save it for another time.” Adam says as he puts a hand on Harry’s shoulder. Harry finally looks away and you take that as your cue to leave.

“Hey wait, so where is Zero?” He pauses not wanting to make this weird. “You’re a perfectionist you wouldn’t go out with an incomplete outfit.”

“Don’t worry your pretty head, Zero is safe and very much present.”

Harry nods and begins looking around hoping to find the person.

“Don’t waste your time searching you’ll find him only if I want you to.” With that you send him a wink and leaving Harry desperate for more conversation with you.

Little while later you’re leaning against the wall arms crossed defensively in hopes no one will approach you to bad some people don’t know how to read body language. Harry slides up right next to you. Right shoulder resting on the wall so he is able to have all eyes on you. 

“Hi Pumpkin!” He shouts due to the music being a bit loud.

You shoot him a grin hoping it will get him to stop talking because truth is as much as you may act like you don’t like Harry it is the complete opposite you know it and so does Harry. You just never know how he feels, which is a big reason on why you never take his advances seriously. Although, he does go the extra mile to seek you out at events or even when running into you around campus. Who knows, today may be the day.

You hope it will be with Harry dressed looking like that is making you feel too many emotions. One’s that make you want to explore everything with him. You turn to face him but that is when one of Harry’s frat brother comes up to him to discuss something which allows you to check him out shamelessly.  He’s wearing a blue sheer sparking top only buttoned half way exposing his beautiful butterfly tattoo you want to ask him about. But what captures your attention are the two swallows resting on his collarbone with a cross necklace sitting perfectly in the center. It’s no lie that Harry has always been attractive but is seems that this summer Harry worked on getting bigger because he looks broad and it’s making you sweat. The matching suspenders are a nice touch to his look but the matching wide leg trousers make his butt look bigger and juicier than before. You really needed to ask Harry for his squat routine because obviously it was working better than Nick’s.

Harry has felt you checking him out for the past few minutes but didn’t want to embarrass you in case you left running from him all over again which is why he dragged his conversation with the freshman. He’s finally able to turn all his attention back to you and he smiles when he sees you eyeing his untamed hair. 

“I see you like my costume.” He smirks.

You decide not to answer and look away from Harry.

“Oh come on pumpkin, I’m Jack Dawson.” He laughs “Well the more modern version.”

You nod, “Well if you were going for modern slutty Jack I definitely see it.”

Harry is shocked at your response. You always leave him surprised.

You smirk. “Bye Harry.”

> > > > > 

It’s eleven and the party's still going hard. You’re sitting on a piece of haystack that has a yellow blanket on top to stop the hay from getting on the clothing thankfully the fire pit is helping you keep warm. You drop your head to hide the smile growing on your face when you feel someone take a seat to the left of you.

“Pumpkin, you got to stop running away from me.” He’s pouting and you just want to lean over and kiss him to make him give you that charming dimpled smile. 

“Where’s the fun if I make everything easy for you.” You look over at him the fire making his green eyes brighter and you lean in closer wanting a better look.

“Are you trying to kiss me?” Harry gasps. “I always thought I would make the first move.” 

You pull away and give him a good shove making him tip to the side and fall. He lets out a small yelp but one look your way and you both start laughing. 

Some time later it quiets down and it’s just you and Harry until a drunken couple makes their way outside. Harry stands and offers his hand to you. Without a second thought you take it and he’s leading you through the house and up the stairs. There’s four doors and his is the second on the left. He opens the door and lets you walk in first. His room is surprisingly clean but as expected he has a bookshelf filled with movies and books.

Harry stands back and lets you admire his room. He wants you to feel comfortable. You run a single fingers across all the movies and stop when one catches your eye. The Shawshank Redemption. 

“Some movies come out before their time and this one was one of them. I remember finding out on opening weekend in didn’t come close to reaching one million and I was shocked. Thankfully, people redeemed themselves and now tops all lists as one of the best movies around even to this day.” You were just rambling on a movie you loved and you weren’t sure if Harry was even listening. You look over at him only to see him staring at you with a wide smile. 

“Embarrassed to say I haven’t seen it. I got it on sale and just never got around to watching it.” He rubs the back of his neck to calm himself.

“Well if you ever get the chance to watch it let me know what you think about it. Would love to discuss it with a professional but just so you know I took my fair share of film and production courses during my summers in high school. I know enough to sound smart in conversations as well as understand.” You told him proudly.

“You continue to surprise me.” He chuckles. “Guess I’m not the only film snob.”

You crinkle your nose at name he called you. “Promise to never call you that ever again, sounds awful.”

You quiet down and sit on his bed. You look over at him and patted the spot next to you. He walks over slowly and sits close enough that your thighs are touching. He lays back and you follow after him. Little noise is heard from outside and you’re thankful for that because laying here in the dark the moon your only source of light is comforting.

“Harry.”

He hums in response. 

“I like you.” You let out a shaky breath after finally saying it out loud.

He turns on his side to face you and you do the same even though you’re nervous. 

“Pumpkin, you don’t know how happy that makes me.” He brings his hand to rest on your cheek and just holds you so gently as if you’d break if he touched any harder. “I like you too. So much.”

You’re nose to nose now, eyes flickering to each other’s lips each time.

“May I please kiss you?” He asks eyes meeting yours.

“Please.” You let out in a low voice.

He looks into your eyes one more time before closing the gap. It feels like magical. You have never felt someone kiss you with so much emotion. You tilt your head to deepen the kiss. Harry doesn’t even want to think about pulling away because now that he has a taste of you he never wants to stop.

You are the first to pull away to get air in your lungs. You lips brush each other softly as you try to think of something to say. But honestly you think your smile says it all.

“You are always worth the wait.” Harry says his breath tickling your lips having you let out a small laugh. 

“Can we do it again, H?” 

“‘Course we can. Don’t ever want to stop now.” He sighs into your mouth.

Each kiss keeps getting hotter and you do nothing to stop it. Harry pulls of your blazer as well as your pretty bow tie. He gives it a small kiss before throwing it to the side. He’s trailing kisses all over you neck but not leaving any bruises not knowing how you feel about it. He loves feeling your heart rate speed up, the breathy moans you let out encouraging him to keep going. You run your fingers through his tangled hair and tug on it because you miss the feel of his lips on yours.

“You sure about this?” He asks pulling away to look you in the eyes. 

“Yes. I give you my consent. Didn’t have a lick of alcohol.” You tell him proudly. “Can’t say the same about you. Will you remember this in the morning, Sparky?” Harry grins at the dumb nickname you used on him. 

“Only had one.” He grins at his next words. “Can’t be chasing you if I’m all boozed up.”

You melt at his words but don’t let him see it. You trail your hands up his open chest. Harry sees how hesitant you are to undress him so he begins to help you out. He takes off his suspenders rather quickly and unbutton the last few keeping the shirt together. You can’t help but lay back and admire Harry. He has so many tattoos but not one of them seems out of place it is as if each one has always lived on him. Harry isn’t one to shy away from what he wants. He brings his hands to rest on your waist. Squeezing hard enough to get your attention. Although you have a hard time focusing when his lips look so inviting. 

“Pumpkin, mind if I take off the button up it would only seem fair.” You smirk up at Harry as if thinking it over but give him a soft nod and that gets him going.

You wait with your arms to your side and face tilted up to catch Harry’s expression. Once the shirt and wide open Harry takes in a sharp breath. This is not what he was expecting. A beautiful swallow tattoo is what he sees. It lies over your heart. He wants to compliment its beauty on your skin but his body has a mind of it’s own and he gives is soft kiss. It was so gentle it sent shivers down your back. 

“Matching tattoos, doesn’t that scream soulmates to you” Harry jokes but looking in his eyes you see a bit of hope in there.

“Should have known you were a hopeless romantic.” You begin unbuttoning your pants when you stop realizing you have to take off your boots. “H, take my boots of please.” You give him a small smile feigning innocence.

Harry shakes his head at you but proceeds to do as you asked. Once he sets them at the edge of the bed he grabs a hold of your jeans and yanked them down. You’re shocked when you realized he took your panties with them. You’re laying there exposed to him bra removed and thrown across the room. Harry was about to crawl up to you but something caught his eye. Hi grabbed your right ankle and turned it a little he chuckled at what he saw. “Guess I finally found Zero.” Harry leans down and gives Zero a small kiss before claiming your lips once again.

Harry kisses you possessively, one hand sliding under your ass to pull your bodies close. You’re getting desperate you want his hands everywhere. You tangled your fingers in his hair and give it a sharp tug. Harry breaks the kiss letting out a deep moan. Harry’s lips drift down your neck leaving a trail until he reaches your breasts. He gives them quick kisses before making his way down to where you need him most. He pulled you legs over his shoulder his breath hitting the side of your thigh making you whine in need. Harry doesn’t need any encouragement because he dives right in. His tongue darting out to lick along your soft folds. You gasp and tighten the hold you have on his hair, your hips rising to meet his mouth. Harry moaned enjoying how sweet you taste. He sucks your clit into his mouth, slowly slipping a finger inside of you, pumping in and out enjoying the moans you keep letting out.

“Harry” You moan. “Please” You don’t want him to ever stop.

Harry had you begging for more as he kept tasting, sucking, and licking you, content with his place between your thighs until he brings you to your orgasm. His tongue sliding deep inside you alongside his fingers, his thumb pressed against your clit, moving it in slow circles. You felt yourself shattering to pieces, the orgasm leaving you seeing stars, your heart pounding but a smile present on your face. You’d never felt anything that good.

Harry places a gentle kiss on each of your thigh before locking eyes with you. “That was…” You stop to catch your breath. “Impressive.”

Harry chuckles cheeks going red. You’re not sure when he got rid of his pants but he sits there bare. He strokes himself several times before grabbing a condom by the side table, opening it, and sliding it on. He leans over you, his mouth on yours, his kisses getting needy for more. 

His cock was hard and you were eager to feel him. You pushed a hand between your bodies and took him in your hand, stroking him. He moaned as you raised your hips to meet his and he slowly eased into you, his hand sliding under your ass to keep a firm grip on you. 

You let out a sigh as Harry filled you, it felt right. You felt as if you weren’t meant to be anywhere else but in his arms. The two of you moved in perfect sync. Each knowing what touch the other needed. The moans and groans filled the room. It felt right. 

You wrapped an arm around Harry’s neck and brought him in for a kiss, you felt like it had been too long since you felt your lips on his. You wrapped your legs around the back of his thighs, pulling him into you, your hips rising to meet his as each of his thrusts became harder, deeper, longer. This orgasm was better than the first, you felt as if your heart might burst. Harry groaned as your walls clamped down on him. His thrusts becoming more erratic as he chased his own releases. He holds you tighter, his body tightening as he came with a low moan of your name. 

He keeps his arm wrapped around you, his face resting on your neck as he catches his breath. A smile on his face as he feels you shower him in kisses all around his face well as much as he lets you. You sigh and close your eyes as he kisses you neck leaving three consecutive pecks.

> > > > >

Harry came back with a wet cloth to help clean you clean up. He was gentle different to how this night started. You find yourself wanting to spend more time with him and you hoped he wanted the same. You’re getting settled in bed together you in your matching black lace bra and undies. Harry stays in the nude letting you know he sleeps like this most of the time. 

Harry decides the break the silence.

“It doesn’t take much to get you into bed.” He chuckles.

You are taken back. What the hell is that supposed to mean?

“What?” 

Harry hears the change in your tone. “Relax, I didn’t mean to be rude.”

You are quick to jump out of bed and throw on your pants, top and blazer in under a minute. All while Harry is staring at you dumbfounded. “No, but you did just want to get in my pants.” 

Harry doesn’t know what to do. He never meant to upset her. He isn’t even sure why he said that. He has never felt this way about a girl and he just ruined it. 

“I was dumb enough to think you actually liked me.” You finish putting on your boots and make your way towards his door not sparing him another glance. 

“I did.” He corrects himself. “I do. I do.” He’s getting desperate. 

“No need to feed me lies. I’ll make this easy for you and leave.” Your throat is closing up but you don’t want to cry over him. 

“Don’t leave!” He glances at the clock and pauses. “Give it a few minutes they’ll say something if you walk out now.” 

You start seeing red. “What!” You turn to him and he sees the anger and hurt in your eyes and he hates it because he caused this. “If I walk out that door will one of your stupid friends be there.” 

Harry doesn’t know what to respond they could be but no one saw them go up so you should be safe. At least he hopes. “No.” He knows half these guys suck but Mitch and him have told them they don’t take terrible behavior especially towards women. “They may be jerks but they aren’t disrespectful.” 

Your stare is cold as you take one final look at Harry. You’re out the door in the next second. Harry stands at the door when a yell snaps both your gazes to someone at the bottom of the stairs.

Jed, the jerk no one likes, including Harry shouts, “Looks like Harry got the girl.” Cheers erupt right after. You’re not exactly sure what Jed tells the friend next to him but by the way he’s eyeing you it’s not something you want repeated. 

You stand there shocked not knowing if you want to cry or punch someone. You turn to look at Harry to see if he’ll do anything but what he does next breaks your heart. He shuts the door in your face. You scoff wanting to go in and punch him but ultimately decide he isn’t the one who deserves it right now. 

You walk down the stairs head held high and at this point no one is staring at you anymore. Jed has his back turned to you so you tap his shoulder he turns and looks at you with a smug smile. Not for long you tell yourself. Right fist is shut tight but not enough to cut off the circulation. You bring it up quickly and swing. All that can be heard is high pitch scream, music and conversations fall dead. 

Jed falls to the ground and looks up at you in a daze not believing what just happened. You have nothing to add and walk out the front door. You slam the door closed just as Harry slams his door open. You’re in your car in seconds shaking from the adrenaline, you take a few deep breaths and check your phone to see your friends have already left. You’re thankful but not at all excited to explain this story tomorrow.

> > > > >

November 2nd

You had the morning shift at the bookstore and you are thankful to finally be leaving. It’s awful having a shift where no one walks in, especially when you’re working alone having no one to talk to. During the shift your friends came in for a quick chat just to make sure you were really fine. Nick brought you a muffin and a coffee while Carmen went on a rant letting you know she’d beat up anyone who spoke a word about you. None of you mentioned Harry. You could tell they wanted to but you were sure you’d cry if you said his name. As annoying as he could be he was sweetheart around you. Too bad it’s over.

Amy walked in at twelve for the shift change. You clocked out and grabbed your bag from the small lockers in the back room. Amy was quick to grab a book and was sitting in the red chair next to the register. 

“Jed totally had that coming. Glad you and Harry gave him a lesson.” Amy starts talking as you  almost made it to the door. You turn around hoping she’ll continue and she does. “ Harry came down in shoes and sweats ready to attack but stopped when he saw Jed holding his jaw his lip bleeding. You could tell he was upset someone beat him to the punch.”

You’re shocked no one had told you that Harry actually made it out of his room. “What happened next.” You’re shocked at how much you care.

Amy shot you a smile. “Jed was about to start bitching when Harry punched him then kneed him in the balls but didn’t do more as Mitch finally showed up. He kicked Jed out and the other boys threw his clothes out the window. It was epic.” You laughed as she finished the story. “Have you talked to Harry.?”

You sign and shake your head no. “I don’t know how to go about this. I’ve never felt this strongly about a guy and then have it all ruined.”

Amy shoots you a comforting smile. “If there’s anything my girl has taught me is that hearing them out is important and how you feel after that is how you should go about it. You alone with your head may ruin a beautiful connection that not many are lucky to have.”

You lean down and give her a tight hug. “I might not say this enough but I love you. I’ll reach out to him and let you know how it goes.”

As you’re walking out the door you can’t help the smile on your face. Maybe, just maybe Harry was different.

> > > > >

Walking into the apartment you know something is wrong. You can feel it and that worries you because you’re supposed to be alone for the day. Carmen is out with her family celebrating her sister’s birthday. You pick up the baseball bat that lays behind the front door that Nick gifted you as a housewarming present (honestly you know he got it from goodwill). As you approach the hallway you hold the baseball hat in one hand and call Carmen hoping she will answer you. She answers after two rings and you don’t let her get a word in.

“I think someone broke in.” You whisper steps light. “I am ready to swing, looks like they are in my room.” 

Your door is shut but you hear the sound of your desk chair creaking.You’re about to open the door forgetting you’re still on the phone. A scream is what stops you from opening the door. “DROP THE BASEBALL BAT PLEASE!!!!” Carmen sounds exhausted. “IT'S HARRY.”

You pause and open the door quickly startling Harry making him stand from the chair he was sitting in. A plush Zero resting in his large hands making the stuffed present look smaller than it actually is. Harry is standing shocked green eyes on the baseball bat which you drop just as quickly. It lands with a thud. You bring your phone to your ear and continue looking at Harry. 

“Can I punch him?” You ask Carmen in a sweet voice trying your best not to laugh because you want to get a reaction out of Harry.

“No.” She pauses. “I would have said yes if he hadn’t explained so do us a favor and hear him out. We wouldn’t have let him in if we knew he was going to cause more trouble. Love you.” Carmen doesn’t give you a chance to answer back and hangs up. 

You throw your phone to your bed and that is when you take a look around your room. It’s different, it’s decorated for Halloween even though you remember you didn’t do that this year which means Harry did it for you. 

Orange pumpkin lights hang above your head giving it a nice glow. Scattered around on your once empty wall are bats of all sizes. Your window has hanging leaves falling and it looks beautiful. Your old bean bag is covered in a pumpkin blanket with all kinds of candies spread over it. You spot Oreos in the mix and that is what brings the first smile to your face. Finally, you look over at Harry who looks nervous, it looks like he’s sweating. 

Shit.

Guess he really is suffering a bit. You’re about to finally say something but your attention is on his chest specifically his pecs that have a ghost with bee’s bottoms on them. It says boo bees. This causes you to start laughing and you take a seat on your bed. Once you calm down you look over at Harry and give him a small smile which he happily returns. 

“You went to the Target sale for me?”

Harry is surprised that’s your first question but answers it nonetheless. “Figured I deserved a bit of chaos in my life.” 

You nod and look at your TV that is set up to watch The Nightmare Before Christmas realizing Harry wants to hang out with you and this is his way of apologizing or well half apologizing.

“This was very kind of you.” You grab the box of Oreos and grab one splitting it in half. “You can see yourself out. Seeing as you found your way in.”

Harry is not surprised your kicking him out but you didn’t even bother to hear his apology. Heck, you didn’t even ask about it. Harry doesn’t fight you on it and walks out quickly not wanting you to see his tears. 

Your room door shuts and you feel bad. Harry was sweet but he did hurt you. Letting him suffer is the right choice, right? As you’re finishing your first oreo, your phone rings.

“Did you kick him out?” 

“Yup” You reply. 

“It’s not nice letting him suffer.” She sighs, you know she’s fed up with you. 

“I suffered.” You remind her. 

“He’s going to cry. He is probably crying.” 

“I’m on my way. I’ll fix it, let him break my heart again.” You’re giggling as you say this.

“Dramatic bitch.” She yells and hangs up.

You hurry out your door just as you hear the front door closing and move even quicker. He’s waiting for the elevator that takes too long to come up. 

“Hey sparky,” His head snaps quickly to look at you. “You’re really going to leave me to eat all this candy on my own.” You shake your head at him but you’re smiling and now so is he. He takes small steps towards you. “Who will take care of me when I crash from all the sugar?”

“You want me to stay?” Harry questions wanting to make sure he is understanding what you’re saying.

“I do believe you owe my some cuddles.” 

He’s standing in front of you now. “Can I kiss you?”

You’re shocked at the question but shake your head no. “If we make it through a movie and I decide I like your cuddling then you can give me as many kisses and i-” he cuts you off.

“Get ready for the world’s best cuddles.” Harry leads the way back to your room. 

You’re getting settled in your bed with Harry to your right. You decide since you’re doing cuddles might as well go all in which is why your head is laying on his firm pecs. You’re thankful for the short sleeve shirt because you get to admire his tattoos a bit more. 

“Why aren’t you letting me apologize?” Harry questions his hand rubs up and down your back softly. 

“I already know what happened after I left and that’s enough for me.” You sit up to look at him. You bring your left hand to cup his cheek and he leans into you. “This is a fresh start. No, annoying Harry and no sassy reply from me.” You lean in and give his forehead a soft kiss.

You settle back down and let out a small giggle when Harry gives you a sweet forehead kiss.

“Now Sparky, press play.”

Surprisingly, you and Harry spend the whole time watching the movie. Sharing your snacks equally. More like you moving the oreos every time Harry’s hand made its way to the box. Harry singing along with Jack that made you laugh so loud that Harry couldn’t help but join you. He was making this whole waiting to kiss so much harder. You’ve watched this movie many times so you know the end is near and so does Harry as he seems to tighten his hold on your waist. It feels nice, like he was always meant to be holding you. 

The finale is starting and that is when you have enough and sit up but you move so quickly that the next thing you know you’re on Harry’s lap and connecting your lips to his. 

Harry hums in appreciation. His left hand on your cheek and right hand on your waist. This is perfect. 

You pull away and laugh when Harry chases your lips. He slowly opens his eyes looking up at you. Your lips wet and plump all by his doing. You’re beautiful and he’s lucky enough to be here with you in his arms.

“There’s not much left in the movie, let’s finish it.” You make to turn around but Harry tightens his hold on you. 

“No” Harry pouts. “Lets kiss some more”

“Harry,” You start but he interrupts you.

“Pumpkin, this more fun.”

“Eh” you fake looking at your nails. 

“That’s it.” 

Harry flips you over so your laying on your back and he’s straddling you. He begins kissing you everywhere. Your cheeks, nose, neck, nowhere is left untouched. 

The room is filled with love and laughter. Each kiss getting deeper and deeper. After each kiss falling deeper in love with one another.

For it is plain as anyone can see, we’re simply meant to be.

> > > > > 

FEEDBACK IS WELCOMED AND APPRECIATED

[emmajustin20]

Add These Films to Your Halloween Month Movie Marathon Watchlist

The Fall season is here, which means that Halloween is right around the corner. On the 31st October, our home and neighbor will be decorated in spooky props, and children can go around asking “trick or treat.” Of course, one has to maintain proper safety measures because ‘COVID-19.’ And, if you think that the global pandemic will rob all the excitement, then you are wrong. You can stay home and bring on the spirit of Halloween with some horror movies.

It will not be the same as dressing up in spooky costumes, attending Halloween parties, having a family gathering, etc., but it will surely scare you off. You can watch horror movies with your friends using any watch party service or app, and feel like being closer to your loved ones. For the very same purpose, we have curated a list of best horror that will make you scream. Watch these movies one at a time or all at once to be scared to move. Following are some of the best spine-chilling movies you must watch this month:

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark

Generation after generation, the people in the small town of Mill Valley experienced the shadow of the Bellows family. In a mansion, young Sarah Bellows turns her tortured life and horrible secrets into a series of scary stories to narrate. All the terrifying tales that she mentions soon become a real experience for a group of unsuspecting teens. These teens stumble upon Sarah’s spooky home.

Annabelle Comes Home

Determined to keep Annabelle from wreaking more destruction, demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren lock the possessed doll in a sacred glass case in a room in their house. Their daughter Judy and her babysitter are left alone in her house after they leave for investigating a case. Soon, an unexpected guest sets Annabelle free, unleashing demonic activity in the house. Annabelle creates an unholy night of terror for the couple’s 10-year-old daughter, her friends, and their young babysitter.

Us

Released in 2019, Us is an American horror film that shows the story of Adelaide Wilson, who is accompanied by her husband, son, and daughter to return to a beachfront home where she grew up as a child. Adelaide is still haunted by her traumatic past, and she is concerned that something adversary is about to happen. Her fears turn into reality when four masked strangers enter her house, forcing her family to fight for survival. When the masked goons take off their masks, the family is horrified to find that each attacker has the appearance of one of them.

Coraline

Coraline is a 2009 American stop-motion animated dark fantasy horror film that starts with an 11-year-old Coraline Jones and her parents, Mel and Charlie, moving into an old mansion. She is left alone when her parents move around to run some errands. She then starts exploring her new home and discovers a secret door that unravels an alternate world that mirrors her own house. She rejoices in her discovery until Beldam Mother (an evil witch) and the rest of her parallel family try to keep her there forever, but she wants to go back to her own family and life. Watch out to find if she makes it to the real world or not?

The Exorcist

The Exorcist is a 1973 American supernatural horror film directed by William Friedkin, and it is based on the 1971 novel of the same name written by Blatty. Despite being an old movie, it is still scary enough to make you jump out of your bed. This movie shows the tale of an exorcism, which is loosely based on real events. The story begins when young Regan starts acting oddly. Her mother witnessed her levitating, speaking in dangerous tongues, and acting nothing like a normal 12-year old girl. Chris, Regan’s mother, seeks medical help, but nothing helps, and the doctor recommends to perform an exorcism. A local priest believes that the devil has seized the girl, and they perform an exorcism. Soon she returns to normal, but the exorcism event was terrifying to watch.

Hereditary

Hereditary is a 2018 horror tragedy film that’s written and directed by Ari Aster. This is the most spine-chilling of all. With the death of the Graham family’s matriarch, a series of unbearable incidents happen that forces her daughter (Annie) and her family (Steve – the husband; Peter – son; Charlie – daughter) to unravel the hideous, evil, and terrifying secret about their ancestors. In an event, Annie Graham loses her 13-years old daughter named Charlie. Grieving her loss, Annie tries to perform a séance to communicate with Charlie and realizes that her soul has become malevolent. Further, she realizes the evil ancestry, and she decides to sacrifice herself to stop haunting events. The ending takes an evil turn, making it a must-watch during Halloween.

I hope you can sleep peacefully after this movie marathon. You might need some break in between, but these movies will ensure that you have a good time getting the Halloween spirits high.

Hi, I’m Kinsley. I’m a web developer living in Pontiac, USA. I am a fan of web development, programming, and entrepreneurship. I’m also interested in innovation. You can read my blog such as. pctechwire.com

Source: Halloween Month Movie Marathon

[keepersreprise]

“From Hell” Review

31 Days of Tarot Halloween - Day One

“Journey”

In this blog I will be discussing my own personal insights into the popular movie From Hell, its dark story and origins, tantamount themes, and then discussing the theme as presented in the Major Arcana Tarot Card “Journey” pulled from my Dreams of Gaia deck.

OVERVIEW

From Hell is a gorgeous piece of symbolism, that tells the familiar tale of famous serial killer Jack the Ripper, in London of 1888, from the months of August to November.

Jack the Ripper targeted, tortured, and disemboweled a total of five victims - all prostitutes - within that time, before suddenly disappearing. Many theories in the last one hundred-twenty-nine years have arisen regarding who this man was, and what his motives may have been.

Loosely based off the graphic novel by Alan Moore and Eddie Campbell, From Hell is a dark and gritty tale that primarily follows respected and swarthy inspector Frederick Adderline (Johnny Depp) and struggling, sweet-hearted prostitute Mary Kelley (Heather Graham), as they face the terrifying silhouette that was Jack the Ripper.

This film’s vision itself was based off of a theory that the women were targeted as part of a conspiracy to cover the fact that Prince Albert Victor married a common girl name Annie Cook. However, although popular, the theory has been widely discredited.

THEMES

Social Class

Much of the film is cast in a dark and dreary era of London, shortly before the turn of the century. In a time where there was still a great division between the working-class, and well-educated socialites. In fact, many influential men beat it over Inspector Adderline’s head (and the watchers’) that no “well-bred” or respectable man would commit such atrocities.

When Adderline states that he believes the murders were committed with the precision and knowledge of anatomy of a professional surgeon, it is suggested instead that the murders are nothing more than the work of a butcher. Or even a rich tradesman.

The series of events that lead to the murders revolves around the Prince Albert’s secret marriage to commoner and prostitute Ann Cook, and the subsequent birth of their child. As a result, Ann is kidnapped and questioned, then lobotomized and sequestered in an asylum. The Queen Alexandra of Denmark herself sets trusted Freemason Sir William Gull the task of eliminating the witnesses without any conscious regard to the women’s lives, nor the mass hysteria the killings stir amongst her subjects. And perhaps more telling, is that William Gull - the Ripper - is lobotomized and sealed away himself once he has completed this task.

COLOR SCHEMES

The color red is a prominent theme, often starkly contrasting or complimenting the gloom and dreariness that rests like a translucent veil over London during this time. The color is not solely present in the scenes of grisly murder. It can also be found in other significant scenes and moments throughout the film.

Most notably Mary Kelly has vibrant red hair and alluring green eyes. While all the prostitutes wear brighter clothing than most people we see - setting them apart as women of character and diversity - Mary Kelly’s hair is a physical representation of who she herself is. Red is often associated with fiery temperaments, passion, lust, anger, and violence.

In a scene where Adderline is in the tub after drinking absinthe and is taking a clairvoyant journey, there is a red phonograph playing a sonorous tune. The film then switches to another scene where the serial killer is cutting into a raw piece of meat, with a black phonograph playing in the room as well; symbolizing a connection between the two men. In this instance however, the red phonograph represents Adderline’s passion and love as he uses his clairvoyance to relive a memory with his wife, wherein she tells him she’s pregnant. The transition to Gull enjoying a bloody meal with a black phonograph instead depicts the man’s cold-hearted and meticulous nature.

Green is also a prominent color in the film. A few select scenes take place outside or in parts of London where the pall of doom is pushed back for a time. Yet, even in the first instance, when the women are present at the first victim, Martha’s funeral, the watcher is reminded to not allow the moment of beauty to disillusion them. The breaking of the coffin as its lowered and reveal of Martha’s waxy face, is followed by the ravaging laugh of a crow. The second instance of greenery is when Adderline reveals the tragic fates of his wife and child to Mary Kelley on a park bench, while gazing into Mary’s attentively sympathetic green eyes. The last instance in the film shows a happy Mary Kelly raising the throne’s heir in a beautiful cottage by the sea. Yet there is a sadness in her eyes, even as Adderline is using opium far away, to watch the woman he loves waiting for him, just before he dies.

Just as with the color red, there is a balance to green as well. It is prominently present in scenes with Jack the Ripper; highlighting the wall beyond his silhouette. The lanterns of his carriage burn a sickly pulsing green rather than the normal orange-red of fire. Historically, Mary Kelly was the last of Ripper’s victims. The presence of green - the color of comfort, of life, but also of envy and magic - may have been alluding to her presumed fate.

"JOURNEY"

The Major Arcana card Journey is the representation of a path tread; of ourselves, not just physically. It signifies personal growth and strength of conviction. I will discuss each character’s personal journey throughout the film.

Ann Cook: I wanted to begin with Ann Cook, because although her presence in the movie is brief, it was her transformation from simple prostitute to the secret wife and mother of the throne’s heir that began Jack the Ripper’s rampage at the Queen’s behest.

Ann was a sweet and young girl, whose talents and innocence (despite her reviled profession) attracted the attentions of Prince Albert Victor. Within a short time, Albert and Ann were married in a little church with her friends as witness, and although a couple of them envied her newfound easy lifestyle, it is clear that Ann’s charm could make most anyone love her.

She is unexpectedly kidnapped by the Freemasons under the royal family’s orders and questioned. However, she either never knew her husband was the heir, or lied in hopes of protecting herself and her child. She is lobotomized by Dr. Ferral and locked away. Adderline and Mary visit her, where she is found with glassy blue eyes, proclaiming herself a queen. We never hear any more of poor Ann Cook.

What I found interesting about Ann is that part of me wondered if perhaps she in fact, DID know who Albert was the entire time. We only see the two together while having sex in bed, and the prince has the saucer eyes of a man hypnotized by lust. The prince is also revealed to have syphilis. Considering the detrimental effects it can have on the brain, this may attribute to why he married a commoner in secret.

Frederick Adderline: A renown inspector that is called into Whitechapel after the grotesque murder of Martha. While efficient and respected, Adderline’s methods and acceptance of the belief that any man is capable of anything, in a time where the poor and the Juwes are always the villains, isolate him as an aberrant eccentric. Adderline uses his intelligence and astute eye for detail to wriggle out the secrets of the case like prying worms out from beneath a rock.

At the beginning of the film he is standoffish, and even his sarcastic comments are delivered in a dry tone. Although he uses opium to gain visions of his cases, Frederick never tries to explain why or how this happens. Rather, he is a man that accepts things as they come. However, he does seem to hold to some superstitious beliefs, such as when he pressed two coins over the prostitute Dark Annie’s eyes to pay death’s ferryman so that her soul would find rest.

As the film progresses and he progressively fails to solve the case, the watcher sees the man’s frustration at his inability to protect these women manifest. And as he develops an emotionally charged bond with the resilient prostitute Mary Kelly, we see the inspector’s stark demeanor fold in on itself. We learn of his wife, and in the moment where Mary Kelly becomes defensive after he rejects her, Adderline presses her to the wall in his own passion. From here Frederick’s course begins to steer from the paved road of a law up-keeping, prim man, to a bumpy back alley of shadowy movements. When he is suspended from the case for wanting to preserve elegant words scrawled by Jack the Ripper that hints at his identity, he pieced together the mystery with the diligence of a man ruled by his own morals, and confronts the suspect himself. Going so far even, as to draw a gun on the man. He is, however, incapacitated. Yet even when the inspector is faced with what is presumed to be Mary Kelly’s horrifically mutilated corpse, his strength never falters. He doesn’t shy away, showing us that he is not, in fact, broken. Just heartbroken. Once the killings are complete, Frederick decides he can never risk leading the Freemasons to Mary Kelly and Alice’s location. In the end we see that he has returned to his opium addiction. But now he has been using it for years to watch the woman he loves raise a child not her own, in a little cottage by the sea, waiting for him. He is found dead by the sergeant, with two coins in his hand to pay the ferryman.

Mary Kelly: The moment we meet Mary, we see her sweet and compassionate side; almost entirely at odds with what we may expect of someone with such fiery red hair. Even as a prostitute, she is a strong woman of self-worth, that recognizes that she is, in fact, still a woman despite her profession, with needs of her own.

Mary Kelly is a dual-natured character, much like the others. While kind and sweet, caring for and raising Ann’s child, she is also hot-tempered and challenges other people’s views of who she is. Not much is revealed of her past, except that after her mother died when she was eight in Ireland, her family fled to London, where they were “Starving. Starving, but in fresh air”. She dreams languidly of living in a little cottage by the sea, becoming an old plump woman with a skinny husband and many children. Although Mary is obviously a dreamer, she never speaks of how she means to obtain these dreams. This indicates that she may realize just how unlikely they are.

Mary Kelly begins her story trying to raise enough money to pay a local gang. When Ann Cook offers to get her friends the money from her husband, she is bears witness to Ann’s kidnapping. As her friends are murdered one by one, Mary decides to place her trust in inspector Frederick Adderline. The two become very close, with Mary Kelly kissing him in an alleyway after he offers her money to keep herself safe. In this moment, if the watcher had any doubts about Mary Kelly (like one of her prostitutes friends did), her motives towards Adderline are clarified with words fueled by a life persecution and judgement.

How long Mary Kelly has been a prostitute is unclear, but she is quick to defer to officials, and even names herself “unfortunate”. At one point she says to Frederick that “Oh, I’m sorry. England doesn’t have whores. Just a great mass of unlucky women.” This shows her derivative opinion of the social class, and a glimpse that, despite her defiance, Mary Kelly may view herself in this negative manner herself. Or even fear that all that’s said about whores is true, and she cannot escape it.

It’s through her trust and love for Frederick Adderline, that Mary Kelly finally DOES escape it though. She takes Alice and lives in her cottage, raising the child as her own. Yet, even as she watches the girl fondly, there is a telling sadness in her eyes and the watcher knows she is waiting for Frederick. And that, unlike her love, who can travel upon an opium cloud to watch her, she will never know what became of him.

Jack the Ripper: The serial killer’s story begins as that of any other in fiction. A shadowy unknown figure that haunts the characters. And our minds. His actions appall us, drive a wedge between our willingness and ability to sympathize with such an atrocious human being.

When Ripper is nothing more than a silhouette against an eerie sky or hunched over the form of his latest victim, he is the boogeyman. The devil. That which we feared cannot be stopped. We imagine him with a horrid snarling face, fangs that drip blood and hands that are never clean. But really, we know he is just a man.

Before his identity is revealed, we are given glimpses into the man’s life and daily activities. We know that he is, in fact, a “well-bred” man, that eats delicately, wears prim suits, takes good care of a traveling amputation kit he uses on his victims, educated and precise; in stark contrast to what Frederick Adderline is persuaded to believe. Ripper even displays the touch of a poetic hand at one point, which results in Adderline being removed from the case.

However, it becomes quickly apparent that there is something more sinister about the man. His operations are ritualistic. Green fire glows in his lanterns. Although this is never addressed, it could simply be a symbolic method used to ring the bell in the watcher’s head to let them know when they’re following the developments of Jack the Ripper.

As the murders continue, Adderline recognizes signs that the acts are being committed in a ritualistic fashion. The bodies are arranged in a pentacle star shape throughout the city, the women’s items arranged near their corpses in a similar fashion, the organs that are removed so precisely and deliberately. At one point a letter accompanies a box with half a kidney, where Ripper proclaims to have eaten the other half.

Jack the Ripper’s true identity is revealed to be that of Sir William Gull; a respected Freemason and surgeon that is working under the orders of the Queen Alexandra to dispose of the witnesses to Albert’s marriage to commoner Ann. Gull expresses obvious love and concern for the Prince Albert, who is suffering from syphilis. When we first meet him, Gull is a small, kindly man in his seventies, that greets inspector Frederick Adderline at a show, and willingly provides crucial information about the killings and weapons used. However, he quickly deters Adderline from suspecting him by revealing he had a stroke that caused tremors (obviously untrue).

As the tale progresses and Adderline confronts Gull, we see a literal transformation overcome him. As he turns around to face the inspector, the man’s twinkly, kind eyes turn as cold and black as two coals. His voice becomes deeper, his shoulders squared, and his back straighter. His prestigious mind and meticulous words become dark, despondent. Frightening. He claims that the mitre and the pentacle are symbols that course with energy and meaning and that HE is that energy and meaning. That he will be remembered for ushering in a new century.

When at last William Gull believes he commits his final murder, he is placed before a jury of Freemasons. The devil is gone from his eyes, the deep bass from his voice, and suddenly he looks small again as we watch the scene flip between his trial, and the Queen discussing the mission she had given him. The watcher realizes then that in a way, Sir William Gull, Jack the Ripper, was also just a victim of circumstance and social hierarchy. Even as he is being judged and sentenced, William Gull believes that his actions were the true actions of a believer, and that it is only the “Great Architect” that can declare judgement on him. The man is then lobotomized in the same fashion as Ann Cook, and locked away alone and naked, with the glassy blue eyes of the forgotten.

[krisrowland]

Promises for this year and reflections on last year

 A few activities that I’m trying to have a positive impact my life in 2019

Reading (so many books I haven’t read on my shelf)

Drawing in my Adam J Curtis book

Writing Kasper pieces

Spend time figuring out a vague shape for Kasper so far.

Organise Skype sessions with friends, Helena, Steph/Archie, Tina/Aine, Rosie, Lauren,

Research artistic meetups

Find time to meditate

Find time to be silly/rehearse monologues

Singing in the shower

Practising monologues

Writing thought pieces

Practical things to work on in 2019

Get a credit card and spend     £50 each month

Buy all birthday cards and     presents for sister, mum, dad, matt, Archie, Sophie, Jonny and Rich and Helena. + any  other major birthdays

Organise birthday party in August

Organise China trip in August

Things I promise to be this year

Being a better uncle to     Archie

Everyone is a little bit racist as they say. I want to be less so.  I want to understand more and go to talks, plays, listen to activists that have a BAME voice . And figure out how else I can be an ally.

Always be willing to learn

Reflections on 2018

January 

I met Chris at Paul's birthday party which was amazing it was so fun and an overwhelm of lust and play.  I stopped doing the Landmark Education introduction Leader Programme after  4 months of emotional, frustrating and enlivening phone calls. I couldn't deal with the pressure I was putting myself under. My grand visions of social justice and my own creative practise were in severe conflict with reality and I needed to reassess what I was saying to myself. I think Landmark has undoubtedly changed my life it has made me really respect myself and find ways of being more flexible on a day to day with others. I now have the best relationship with my Dad, Mum and work I have ever had. I also started counselling for the first of three times this year to clear up some irrational thought patterns, which has continued my personal development journey and understanding of myself. Katharine and I continued our obsession with Stacey Makishi @ The Yard Theatre. Paul and I watched an earthshattering theatrical version of Network at The National theatre.

February started with Rosies hen do and a rekindling of the Notts college crew. I had a two week break to hang round London see shows and art galleries. I had my first rehearsals for Kasper, a performance piece I have wanted to do for ages and invited Chris k to collaborate. I also partied hard with Kayleigh Foulkes for the first time in a number of years in Camden and G.A.Y. The broom dancing team were on form (minus Heather)

March Rosie and Bob's wedding was another wonderful reminder of the awesome people that are in Nottingham, god I love our college crew there is so much I have to thank you for. Catching up with Jake was great, though we only met up three times this year, a culture vulture with a big heart and the best company. Kris R's party was a messy fun night with glitter et al at G.A.Y. And another messy night to welcome Gurdeep to his new Stratford home.

April Discovering the cruisey vibes of Bloc bar with Bryan was amazing. It felt like I was at a gay trance night in the 90's. Pulsating music, guys and telling the time by the number of topless men you could see. April was also Jamie's birthday with a terrific karaoke and Chinese evening. I went to Nestas people powered health conference which made me want to do a service design ma in the new year and had a number of wines for the road with my director and manager.

May was an eventful month starting the new job, Eurovision being a messy evening to say the least in a fabulous location.  I saw Hamilton with Jamie which was an honour and a pleasure it was the best musical I'd seen in ages, intelligent, mainstream, modern and political, never mind catchy. The amount of times I listened to the soundtrack  Spotify created me my own Hamilton playlist as if it was a genre.

In June I did my first stint drinking no alcohol at house parties with support from Helena as she was trying to cut down as well. I joined the Grapes quiz team and won a number of times throughout the rest of the year with them. Helena and I went to Phobiarama which was a political and race based ghost train. Followed by a very iffy messy night at XXL. It was Jonny and Rich's 40th and Sophie's 30th. We said goodbye to the first care leavers peer support group and partied at Chris's caravan to say goodbye to Chris and Helena on their next adventures.

 The start of July was Helenas leaving party :( This years London pride felt like the first time I really understood why we still celebrate. A space in which you can be anything you want to be and feel comfortable being who you are. Years and Years were epic at the Roundhouse showing off their new album with much pizazz. Grindr the Opera was a weridly touching patische that was both hialrious and heartwarming. Helena was back in London and had a brief visit to see Gary in his new pad with Lindsey on the Henley part of the river Thames.

August was my first holiday with my dad in a beautiful air bnb in the New Forest. I had a joint birthday with Chris K starting with a picnic in Green park and ending in the beautiful Set You Free at The Chateau for pure 90s pop #messy. Kayleigh came to London again and we saw Britney at the O2 and went to Jonny woo' club The Glory.

 September I headed off to see Helena and explore Estonian culture in Talinn. I managed to do my best time on a half marathon. 1hour 54 minutes.

 October

Not much happened in October.Cabaret night with Phil Will and Kris. Halloween twas

November I met a really nice guy on Tinder but just didn't get the spark. I started Kasper rehearsals again, trying to figure out what the hell you do in a devised rehearsal space. Fantastic Beasts was a disappointment.

December started off with a fab racalette and wine evening with Chris Will and Phil. We had two Team away days on the same day which I helped organise. The Xmas party was at one my fav craft beer places. I had the gayest of Secret Santa's with unicorn Christmas decorations, a apron with a fake cock attached to it and a very fluffy rainbow pen. I finally went to see The Inheritance. A beautiful bittersweet depiction of modern gay life and the debt we owe older gay men.

Throughout the year I have been volunteering at a care leavers peer support group in Thurrock. It has been a challenging experience with the young people but also being able to find our place in the group. I wrote a blog about my experience here. I am continuing this into next year and won't be continuing after June.

It was a bit of a shock in May to hear that Helena (my closest and best friend) would be moving to China. We have really gone through thick and thin together and with each other over the last two years. Meeting at Landmark on a course and then developing a social impact concept together. Whilst the CCA's output may have left much to be desired. We created some unbelievable friendships ourselves and with other people including Gary, Kris , Annie and Papola. July was the month when she departed to go to Estonia for a few months before leaping over to Bejing to be a lecturer. Looking back over the year it strikes me how much of an impact she has had on me. Getting me off my seriousness addiction, pushing me when I didn't think I could give much more. She is one in million a real open, honest, not afraid to share her thoughts, willing to give anything a go and also a mysterious multitasker that you don't realise is doing so much brilliant stuff.  She has opened my eyes to the EU migrant experience in Britain, Estonia's vibrant culture, my own biases, helped me celebrate myself and so so so much more. Helena I frigging love you and miss you, no one can ever take your place.

At work it was an up and down year. A department restructure and consultation had been taking place since September 2017. After six months we had the finalised structure, my line manager was leaving which was a blessing and a curse. (In some ways he was an amazing line manager giving me space to explore with him what I wanted to develop in the role but he was also not great at following up and holding me to account plus our meetings could go on for hours.) Then looking at the final paper I saw that my job had been deleted. So I had to interview for a new position which mostly matched my previous role, though it was the grade above which softened the blow. We welcomed Jane to the peer support team and many others into the unit and it felt we had new found energy and ambition.  Two colleagues and myself started the LGBTIQ+ workshop which has been an amazing 6 months of creating events, learning, creating structures and trying to see how we are best placed in the organisation.  At the Xmas party we even had someone congratulating us on sustaining the group and seeing us as a steering group for the organisation. I also travelled to Birmingham and Swansea for Influence and Participation (I&P) events, helped create an animation and will be facilitating a session next year for a new set of videos explaining the benefits of I & P to people on their recovery journey. The success of our staff forum pay paper meant in April  that all staff got a pay rise, with further Brexit/ economic developments this will be a key focus in the coming years to see how we can support staff within our capacity as a charity. I was recently made the staff forum chairperson as Zadie leaves after having helped us navigate a consultation that asked major questions of our internal structures and leadership and form a project plan. Things now seem more on track with my role with a clear steer that my efforts to troubleshoot and problem solve is a positive contribution to the units and department as a whole. We will see what happens in the new year.

Jamie was another of Paul's friends who I instantly hit it off with. An amazing creative/ animator who has enthusiasm for all things culture with a labyrinth of music, film, TV shows and merch surrounding his almost iconic living room.  We created a film club watching films we had never seen before it was a zany mix of animation, black comedy, surreal adventures and classics that you are suppose to have seen. After a bit of persuasion Jamie created an amazing puppet lipsynch to Robyn's here. Talent screaming out, can't wait to see what next year brings for this phenomenal guy.

Chris what to say about Chris. Well he has given me some of the best nights of the year pub quizzes, theatre, drinks, nights in, films, banter, Karaoke, clubbing, a picnic. His smile is inffectious. He made me value the small things. We dated and that came to an end but he became a solid friend. There is so much going for him I just wish he would see how great he really is.

Big love

[crazybloggingavi-blog]

Today, folks, we’re going to enter a dimension of sound, of sight, and of mind, a dimension of imagination* …  Two stories to entertain you as we approach the day honoring spookiness and oddities, Halloween.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

To this day, she doesn’t know if she was dreaming or actually in this world of impossibilities.  All she knows is that she was entering her apartment, or at least thought she was.  Of course, her apartment never was that big as it was that – day?  And it had had four walls and flooring.  But not that time.  She walked into her place to find prints in frames (from DCKM) hovering at impossible angles all around her.  She was dressed in an outfit from {KT}, a sexy dress with shoes, makeups and nail polish.  Yes, she seemed to remember, she had been out somewhere, she just couldn’t remember where.  “I must have really hit the bar hard,” she murmured to herself as she approached a Celtic vanity from JTDD. She looked in the mirror and gasped – she was wearing a different dress from Applique Chic, a lovely skull corset dress!  She sat down heavily onto the stool.  What was going on?  She tried to make herself wake up but couldn’t.  “Oh, this has got to be from too much to drink!” she thought as she stood up and looked around.  Surely there would be an exit … wouldn’t there?

A coffin from Khargo with candles and a skeleton caught her eye and she wandered over to it.  She felt something shift near her shoulder blades and turned her head to see the tips of bony wings; her dress again warped to Changed Season’s Twisted Alice outfit, with wings, hat, necklace, earrings and gown.  She looked down at her feet and almost screamed as she saw pillows near her feet, leaning against the coffin – one had written in blood on it “RIP.”  She squeezed her eyes tightly.  “No, no, no, this is not real!” she moaned out and turned from the coffin to nearly collide with a cauldron, also from Khargo.  This cauldron steamed as a raven and a rather tall woman with a skull in her hands just watched it.  She stumbled away from the eerie sight and sank down on a flamingo, her hair also inexplicably changing to no_match’s NO_WONDERLAND hair in blonde.  She shook her head, bemused for just a second.  “I guess only Alice would be in such a strange world as this!” she thought.  But this was getting very old!  And then to see a chair and lamp from The Dark Fae hanging in the air, the chair almost upside down …. ! She shook her head rapidly.  “Make it stop!” she cried out and she suddenly couldn’t see – a sleep mask from Lush was covering her eyes.  (I think it was good she couldn’t see what was stitched on it!)  She reached to yank it off – right now not being able to see was even scarier than the sights she was seeing – but it vanished on its own to reveal a purple chair, also from The Dark Fae, hovering at another impossible angle.  “What else could go wrong?” she cried out as a room from Something New – and no, she never did figure out how a room got into another room – pulled her in, and she found herself in a bizarre pose and dressed in another dress, this one more reminiscent of the Disney Alice, the Mad Alice Mini from Little 2 Large.

From there, she just materialized into another room from Something New … it made it look as if she were reaching into one picture on the wall while a teapot poured tea out of another picture on top.  “This is ridiculous!” she thought to herself.  “I certainly hope this is a dream; I don’t fancy living like this forever!”  Just as she was thinking that, her dress changed to the Mad Bad Alice dress, complete with red splatters, and she was doing trick riding on an upside-down horse from Something New with The Dark Fae’s spooky backdrop to provide just the right scare.  At this point, she was wondering just when it all WOULD end!

She did pause to wonder at what seemed to be a circus caravan, pulled by two elephants and illuminated by a floating hot air lamp, both from ~ASW~, going up into thin air.  She shook her head and saw a circus car from ~ASW~ that hadn’t been taken away with the others, Curious, she strolled up to it – and suddenly found herself inside the cage!  She slumped down, sighing in defeat.  “I’m tired of this – let me out!” she called, meaning the whole dream (if it was one), but the cage released her abruptly, revealing she had changed clothing yet again, into [AF]’s Ivy Dress DarkWeb.  By now, she was just numb to all of it.  She trudged over to ~ASW~’s Carnival Ride and flopped onto the seat, her head in her hands and elbows on her knees.  “I hope this all goes away soon,” she sighed in defeat as everything faded to black ….

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

What a wonderfully spooky tale! Hope she does find her way out of the maze … poor girl!  But here’s a more heart-warming story about a little witch, trying to find her forever home …

It was a dark and gloomy night; the sky looked washed in a dreary green and black clouds scudded across the sky.  The little witch approached this next house carefully; it looked a lot like the Mildread’s Mansion from Dragon Magick she’d been sent to find, but so did the twenty others she’d seen so far!  She did notice that the outside was decorated with a candy dish from Khargo – a pumpkin on two hands coming out of the ground – and she smiled.  The rest of the yard was festooned with jack-o-lanterns and a pumpkin garland from LIVID and an altar, spider tree and wheelbarrow from Khargo.  She nodded approvingly – spooky, but not so much that children would be chased away.  She so hoped this house was the one!

She walked into the house, her adorable braids, courtesy of Sn@tch’s Wednesday Hair, bouncing on her shoulders and her Presley dress and Esme witch’s hat, from {Momoko}, flapping with every bounce as well.  Her nails were painted in a Halloween-colored webbed chevron pattern from Dark Passions and her hand held a cleaver, properly bloodied, from :Z.S:.  After all, a girl can’t be too prepared!  She shone her flashlight around and caught a couple of halloween wall tattoos (from Khargo) decorating the wall.  She smirked, “Boo and Happy Halloween!  What a nice way to be welcomed!”  Her eye caught a pentacle rug and two chairs (from Squishy Fluff) and then a wall with framed pictures of familiars from Oubilette and a wall sconce from Dragon Magick.  “Oh, very nice!” she said, falling in love more and more with this house.

As she twirled around, she saw the :Z.S: Pendulum Crystal holder by the door and then the ::OOPS:: Cross Wall opposite, near a hallway.  The cross glowed and she somehow knew – the house had accepted her!  This WAS her home, to live in, to play in, to tempt children in … and children made such delicious snacks!  She put on her ::OOPS:: Arachnid Strap and set out her -Extra- Into the Nether Conjuring set.  As four of the black candles floated about her, she lit the fifth one and began the chanting that would meld her powers into the house and decor, making it such a popular stop for the children this Halloween … !

Wasn’t that sweet?  It’s always good to see little witches finding their happy place!  And if you are looking for items (such as the ones featured in our stories) for creating YOUR happy place, here’s where you can find them!

Looking Glass story:

All items featured are from one of the Evil Bunny Production’s events/hunts this month or from Khargo Halloween Store:

Boo! Bunny Hunt:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brewery/126/192/21

The Mad Circus 4:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brewery/85/130/21

Gacha Life – Haunted: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brewery/121/131/21

Twe12ve:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brewery/79/200/21

Khargo Halloween Store:   http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Yellowstone%20Falls/133/230/41

and of course, more awesomeness at the following stores’ LMs:

~ASW~:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Anala/200/40/235

Anny’s Fashion:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Zinaida/201/226/21

Applique Chic:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Woodland%20Park%20North/97/225/21

Changed Seasons:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Serena%20Pontypridd/145/67/50

Little 2 Large:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Jokung/160/224/21

The Dark Fae:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Jupiter/33/142/27

Something New:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Rainbow%20Illuzion/62/61/23

Lush:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brewery/121/131/21

DCKM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Enoshima/160/4/21

JTDD:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Michigan%20Bay/163/164/24

{KT}:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brewery/112/143/21

The witch trying to find a home’s featured items are from the event, Dark Passions’ Trick or Treat:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Spectacle/181/233/58

and you can find more coolness visiting the individual stores’ LMs:

-Extra-: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Capodorso/218/173/2805

::OOPS::  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Vespeira/92/219/21

:Z.S:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Lanisha/83/142/23

Oubilette: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife//128/50/25

Dark Passions: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Spectacle/46/43/81

Dragon Magick Wares: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/New%20Kadath/47/235/21

LIVID: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife//192/71/52

Sn@tch: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Snatch%20City/122/133/29

Squishy Fluff:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Serena%20Rainbows%20End/94/180/2001

Momoko – will be in-world soon; here is their Facebook link: https://tinyurl.com/y836fvvl

but hurry – the EBP events/hunts go only to Oct. 31 and the Trick or Treat until Nov. 2 … and that is a scary thought indeed!

  Through the looking glass … and a witch finds her true home Today, folks, we're going to enter a dimension of sound, of sight, and of mind, a dimension of imagination* ... 

[katherinconti7-blog]

✅ Traveling & Convenience Post Classification.

NYC, April 1/ PRNewswire/ - With the extended economic recession creating risky stress in the property as well as placing our children vulnerable of abuse, The The big apple Foundling, among the Urban area's earliest and biggest youngster well-being companies, is introducing a multi-pronged public awareness project to accompany Little one Abuse Avoidance Month. WonderFox Soft thus launches the 2015 Halloween Free Gift in between Oct. 23 to Nov This publication, by author Lynn Grabhorn, will assist you obtain laser-focused about just what you would like to achieve as well as exactly how you're getting there in 2015. Those individuals that have actually left the Old Area state most of the private citizens trapped behind Islamic Condition lines - put at 50,000 due to the Iraqi armed force - are in a hopeless situation with little food, water or medications. Between June 1, 2015 as well as September 30, 2015, the Trust fund cancelled as well as repurchased 212,500 Rely on Units at an ordinary price from $54.47 per Leave System, exemplifying a financial investment from around $11.6 million. To download and install a pamphlet detailing the indications of youngster abuse and also find out more concerning The Foundling's Kid Misuse Prevention Month efforts, go to/ capm. Due to her experience eventually along with hair care she was able to receive a work in St. Louis as a sales individual for Annie Turnbo Malone, a dark lady which had pioneered hair treatment and cosmetics items for black girls. Just what's additional, you're even supplied with 50 targeted opt-in tops each month - the leads alone may cost much more than the registration cost. Regrettably for Keurig Eco-friendly Mountain, this sales network is additionally under severe tension with K-cup purchases brokening some 20% throughout the Q3 2015 duration. In the day task, I was actually given 50 brand new billings to input and also send claims to this month. And Intel Enterprise (NASDAQ: INTC) climbed 10% on the month and, to become truthful, http://matthew-diet.pt/ I am actually not accurately sure why. Separate each group by 24 to uncover just how much you spend each month in each group. That is why you are going to require the little bit of black event outfit that comes in various types, thankfully to the lovely fad setters. Joys, including the Apollo Theater, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Harlem Scripture Choir and The Schomburg Center for Study in Afro-american Culture comprise simply a 'decline' of just what performs provide. Until now, the solution has been actually a resounding of course coming from the Black communities throughout the country as well as planet. With each period comes even more debris to be gently discharged, as well as March was actually certainly a month for that! I've actually appreciated observing the deeply reduced riverbed in Goshen throughout my organizing for Bike Virginia 2013 as well as Velo Virginia's 2015 celebration.

Don't forget managing your own self to your favorite meal once a month is actually promoted, after excellenting you are entitled to a reward. Islamic State has dropped regarding half the Old Area due to the fact that the war for the historic district started ten days ago. If you are actually scanning in typically white and black things as well as that's vouchers, you're certainly not really going to go pass the limit.

[crazybloggingavi-blog]

When I saw this meme quote, I just HAD to have it as the title of this blog post for Evil Bunny Productions (EBP) – although the group tag is “I’m EVIL!”  But I prefer to think of it as “fabulous with a twist!”

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

There are three events and a hunt on at EBP this month, which is absolutely fabulous – and twisted – and a boon for those of us who love shopping, gachas, hunts, and other activities!  The first one is The Gacha Life – Haunted, which is full of those addictive, fun machines … and when you see what you could get, you’ll want to brave the scares and go get the designers’ amazing wares!  La Bella Boutique {LBB} has a bakery available with soooo many options to put out.  You can make it as low-prim as you want – the selection I put out was only 53 prims.  And omg, do those baked goods look yummy!  Baked treats of a different kind are in Infernal Alchemy’s The Horribly Haunted Kitchen, perfect for an old, abandoned house … where things go bump in the night … and people go missing … !  I love those pie crust tops – so creepily good!  Adorably Strange Wares (ASW) has a Ghost Town Film Set with all the trappings for a perfect ghost town experience – gallows, stocks, tumbleweeds and sandy patches.  You can almost hear the player piano, the clink of glass mugs, and of course the gunshots … !  Anny’s Fashion has a gorgeous Azhaar Salem dress (I’m wearing the rare Noir one) and Juna has the Gala tattoo for both men and women with a hud for multiple bodies.   Gecko Creations has provided the Melantha Halloween decor – wreaths, garlands, candy bowl, signs, just all kinds of decor to make your place spookily fun!  Khargo has provided for those of you who need tip jars with a Halloween vibe – these tip jars look amazing and really stand out!  Especially the blood-filled goblet … !

You can find all these amazing items and more here at The Gacha Life – Haunted LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brewery/121/131/21 but it’s only going to be on until Oct. 31st – so don’t delay!

You can also visit the stores of these designers for more awesome-ness:

{LBB}:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Everstream/174/215/3001

Infernal Alchemy:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Sanguinus%20Keep/71/160/48

ASW:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Anala/200/40/235

Anny’s Fashion:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Zinaida/201/226/21

Juna:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Whispering%20Winds/95/221/24

Gecko Creations:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/St%20Lion/131/74/78

Khargo:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Yellowstone%20Falls/69/167/23

  This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The Mad Circus 4 is the next event, and I can’t even tell you how chock-full of amazing stuff this event is!  I put together La Bella Boutique {LBB} Salem Witch outfit, GO Precious Purple Lipstick Makeup05, AppleTini SparkleBoo nail art, The Little Bat (!TLB) Hellfire eyes and Image Essentials (IE) The Marionette set (and I added in Truth’s VIP hair Batty) into a story about a scary circus in a spooky, foggy field, and at the very edge of the circus, a huge marionette stage with a live girl as the marionette.  Her gorgeous dress, lightly tinted lips, sparkly nails and glowing purple eyes hold everyone enthralled … but is that tears glossing her eyes?  No one will ever know, though – she dances on her ropes as if she is thrilled to be there.

Want to know how to get these amazing items and more?  Here’s TMC 4’s LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brewery/85/130/21  – but only to the 31st of October, so hurry!

And for more from these stores:

{LBB}: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Everstream/174/215/3001

GO Makeup:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Zinaida/201/226/21

AppleTini: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Flawless/199/89/28

!TLB:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Lanisha/173/143/23

IE:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife//141/175/26

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

And of course, who can resist a hunt – especially one with so many great items for you to find!  The Boo! Bunny Hunt is a ton of fun, with stunning gifts for you to find from many many talented designers that will add a lot of haunting fun to your decor and clothing fashion!  You can see from my place how it’s all looking cozy … well, ok, maybe not so cozy … but definitely in the Halloween spirit!  After I placed MOoH’s Floating Ghosties out, I had to try and listen to see if I can hear them moan, wearing Firelight’s Hubble hair in light brown (it also comes in dark brown too!) and Hope’s Creations [HC] Satine dress – an orange top and black skirt combo that’s really cute!  But then it gets a bit spookier …  I mean, I do put out Inner Demons {ID} Halloween Fence black and LOoLOo & Platypus (L&P) double-sided Fall Halloween decor (which I really love – it looks good coming and going!), which doesn’t look so sinister.  And I put out Salacity’s Fall Apples Throw Rug, to welcome my guests, and Dreamscapes Art Gallery Pumpkin Owl Tree Stump while wearing EscalateD Blair hair and Changed Seasons’ Too Cute to Spook outfit of leggings, hoodie and bodysuit …just don’t pay any attention to the Cranked Hallo Kitty Axe!  Makes you wonder why I’m inviting you all in, huh?  Oh, and then, while wearing Grumble’s Came to Slay t-shirt and garter skirt outfit (and paired with Sn@tch’s VIP Riley hair – I mean, how can you not pair the hat and t-shirt??), I stir the cauldron and put out the side table and treats from Little 2 Large (L2L) – just don’t look toooooo carefully at them if you like bunnies!  Hmmmm … maybe not so innocent … !  Especially when apparently Lush’s Electricity pose sends me pole-axed to the ground!

Anyway, if you love these items, begin the hunt here:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brewery/126/192/21 but it only goes till the 31st of October!

And for more of these terribly creative designers’ stuffs, go here:

MOoH LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Chillium/187/75/4073

Firelight LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Flawless/37/59/27

[HC] LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Benjamin/187/128/22

{ID} LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Metropolis%20City/208/77/24

(L&P) LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Owl/48/68/802

Salacity LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Von%20Strauss/31/148/22

Dreamscapes Art Gallery LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Home%20Whimsy/61/80/21

EscalateD  LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Chrysanthemum%20Island/144/34/21

Changed Seasons LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Serena%20Pontypridd/145/67/50

#Cranked# LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Vision/192/224/2732

Grumble LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brewery/126/192/21

L2L LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Jokung/160/224/21

Lush LM:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Outfits/15/196/3137

AND … the Twe12ve event just opened today and goes until the 31st of this month!  I’ll give you more info on that later, but for now, just know that it’s going to be as awesome and fabulous as the other events/hunt that EBP has put on, and here is the LM so you can check it out!  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brewery/79/200/21

Hurry though – nothing lasts forever and neither do these events!

    “Oh darling I am not evil. I am fabulous with a twist!” When I saw this meme quote, I just HAD to have it as the title of this blog post for Evil Bunny Productions (EBP) - although the group tag is "I'm EVIL!"  But I prefer to think of it as "fabulous with a twist!"