#attic mouse control

[radioisntdead]

Not the sender for the original ask but I'm sorry I cannot help but imagine an alternative where the reader summoning Rosie is the most angsty teen ever.

They're imagining the stereotypical giant red demon with goat legs and horns- but instead there is just a pretty lady and Rosie is CONCERNED because there is a teenager in the attic of their house summoning demons, not because of any normal reason but because whatever could a child need a demon for? Do they need help? Auntie Rosie will help!

Summoning a demon but instead of taking your soul you just get adopted. If you take this seriously (you don't have to) add as much angst as you wish.

Good evening my dear! Sorry this took forever to get out! It got buried in my drafts

I added a knockoff slasher dude solely to murk the reader because, I don't know as a plot for death?? I don't remember my thoughts when sleep deprived I'm so sorry

Anyways Auntie Rosie supremacy,

Rosie & reader

Platonic

Warnings!!

This isn't my best work, it was written late at night when I was mildly delusional, death, stereotypical slasher dude, OOC

You were home alone, sat in your dark and gloomy attic surrounded by lit candles, a book you had stolen from a shady book shop was open in your hands and you had drawn a summoning circle in red paint from the dollar store.

You took a deep breath before reading out the incantation written in the book, fully prepared for something grotesque to crawl out.

Wind came forth swirling around you as the circle glowed, the sound of the wind was almost deafening, you could feel your sweater clinging onto your skin, each loose thread itching your skin

You tried your best to ignore it as you continued chanting as something rose from the circle.

Once you had finished the spell you shut your eyes as the wind winded down.

"Oh my! You're quite young aren't cha'!"

Your eyes opened as you looked up, instead of some grotesque creature with blood and horns hanging off of it, was a lady,

Her skin was gray, she was dressed in early 1900's fashion and her eyes were pitch black, like a endless void.

"Are you going to say anything or are you just going to sit there with your mouth open catchin' flies?"

She said with an eyebrow raised.

"I, shit, I'm sorry I wasn't expecting someone so pretty? I was expecting more-"

"Well aren't you a charmer! Allow me to guess, You were expecting someone more demonic looking?"

You nodded, "Yeah,"

The woman tilted her head ever so slightly,

"Well aren't you going to introduce yourself?"

This felt like a trap, what if giving your name to her would give her control of you like a fae? Probably not, but what if it was?

"Likewise, it's a pleasure! You can call me Auntie Rosie!"

"I'm [Name], nice to meet you?"

"Auntie Rosie?"

You weren't expecting the creature you summoned to be a pretty cannibal named Rosie, let alone for her to adopt you as a surrogate nibling, telling you to call her Auntie Rosie and nothing else.

She had to leave soon after you summoned her because she had 'overlord duties ' and 'A town to run' but she told you to summon her again soon.

And so you did, the next time Rosie tutted at the messy attic, saying that you should tidy up the area more if you were going to invite guests over, she asked you to grab some cleaning supplies.

You snuck down into the hall, leaving Rosie alone for a moment, you were as quiet as a mouse as you tiptoed past your sleeping suspected serial killer of a godfather, managing to make it to the kitchen to grab a few cleaning supplies and a broom before sneaking back.

Rosie hummed as she began moving boxes around, shaking her head at the amount of dust and other things that littered the floor.

"I'm back, I got a broom, dustpan, and some Clorox wipes," you say as your head popped up from the entrance,

She said taking the broom,

"Good! Now let's make this place suitable, this much dust is horrible for your health! Horrible!"

You nodded, placing the remaining objects onto the floor and carefully picking up the boxes.

"You organize those pesky boxes dearie, I'll start sweeping."

The attic completely changed from gloomy to more refined within the day.

The boxes were stacked up forming a small wall with some free space behind it, the floors had been swept and sanitized (aside from the summoning circle) the candles were replaced with fresh ones, that book that summoned her was placed on one of the boxes.

Rosie had gone back and asked you to summon her back within the hour, bringing back some furniture with her.

She brought a smallish table, two fancy looking chairs, and a rug.

Rosie said as she sat in one of the chairs you in the other, drinking tea, you didn't know where she had gotten the tea from or when it got into your hands.

"Now that makes this place far better, far far better don't you think?"

You didn't like tea all that much but it felt rude to not drink it.

You wondered if it would kill you as you took a sip,

You glanced around at the open space, honestly it was overdo, you had been sleeping in there for a couple of years now and hadn't gotten around to it.

"Yeah, it feels less stuffy for sure,"

"As it should, now that's settled why did such a lovely young lady like yourself want to summon a demon?"

She asked setting her teacup down, getting straight to the point, you choked on your tea, clearing your throat you looked anywhere but in Rosie's void-like eyes.

It was silent for a few minutes,

"It's a long story, but basically parents went missing, moved in with my Godparents, Godmother went missing, Godfather started being suspicious, pretty sure he killed them, can't prove it and I think I'm next." You said in one large breath,

"Well shit, I wasn't expecting that, that's a very messy situation,"

"Auntie Rosie dearie."

"Yeah it is Miss Rosie,"

"Sorry Auntie Rosie."

You sat in silence for a moment, you fiddled with the hem of your sweater, did she believe you? Honestly you didn't particularly believe it yourself it was all suspected.

The attic felt gloomy again once Rosie left, you were once again left alone.

"Would you like me to eat him?"

"Par- Pardon me?!"

You let out a sigh before moving to one of the boxes pulling out a throw blanket and covering the circle, no one aside from you really came up there but couldn't hurt to be cautious.

You moved to the small space behind the boxes, you open another box pulling out a few two sleeping bags, layering them onto each other and placing a pillow on it, opening yet another box you pulled out a thick blanket, you laid on the sleeping bags, curling up into it and closing your eyes until sleep came for you.

A routine began, you'd carry on like normal, going to school, working shady part-time jobs, shoplift storage safe foods at large corporations like target, and go home before your Godfather finished work, sneak back into the attic, and depending on the day summon Rosie.

Rosie was concerned to say the least, you were young, not even a proper adult yet, and you were summoning cannibals in your Attic!

Not to mention how causally there was a whole missing people who were probably was murdered thing going on, would more detail go into that? No.

Rosie truly became an Aunt to you, bringing you trinkets, hyping you up, asking if you wanted her to eat your Godfather, after all that is what you originally summoned her for, but you didn't want to risk getting moved to a different area and having to redraw the circle to summon Rosie, what if you do it wrong? What if you never see her again?

So she didn't do anything to him, listening to your decision.

You would sometimes steal or buy something you think she'd like, and give it to her during her visits, she'd typically adore it whatever it was, because it came from you!

The two of you would have tea, give each other updates on life, and the afterlife.

It was nice, but like all nice things, it unfortunately came to an end.

You ran up the stairs, throwing your backpack at him to knock him down the stairs as you pulled out the attic ladder and hurriedly climbed the ladder up before kicking down the ladder to the attic, like a slasher protagonist, you hastily moved a few heavy boxes over the hatch.

He came home early, and when you walked inside the house to sneak upstairs into your attic, nothing was said, so it was concerning when he grabbed his murder weapon of choice and bolted off after you.

You just needed to summon Rosie and everything would be alright, they couldn't hurt you if Rosie was here,

You shakily pulled out the lighter that stayed in your pocket as you heard your Godfather shout your name, banging on the entrance.

Lighting the candles you scrambled to sit beside the circle, closing your eyes you began the summoning.

The wind began pushing as per usual,

The banging got louder, you could hear one of the boxes fall,

Just a few more seconds, and Auntie Rosie would appear, just a few more seconds and you'd be free, free from this lunatic, you could get a proper job that wasn't suspicious, probably go to collage, make proper friends that you could tell Rosie about with pride, you could give Rosie gifts that weren't stolen or cheap.

Just a few more seconds that's all you needed.

The hatch flew open, his eyes widened, no words were spoken, you didn't even get the chance to defend yourself when the murder weapon of choice, which was a machete because of course it was, stabbed into you.

Rosie appeared, smile dropping the moment she saw you on the ground, blood leaking into the Attic floors, the attic that she had helped you clean up, that she spent time with you in.

Rosie's eyes locked onto your godfather, bloody machete in hand, her mouth opened, revealing her razor sharp teeth.

Blood was splattered across the walls, Rosie wiped blood from her mouth with a handkerchief before kneeling down next to you and gently lifting you up into her lap,

Your eyes were glossy, and blood covered you.

You smiled up at her as she gently brushed away the hair from your face.

You tried to sit up but couldn't,

Rosie rubbed your back, trying to make you comfortable, unsure of what she could say to soothe you, you were dying and she could do much to stop it.

"Yes [Name]?"

"Auntie Rosie?"

"I,-" you take a painful breath, your last word privileges being revoked

"Shh, it's alright don't strain yourself, Close your eyes and rest dearie."

She said pulling you closer, rocking you gently in her arms until you breathed your last.

The door opened to the empty Emporium, Rosie sat in a chair writing down a grocery list,

"I'm sorry but the emporium's closed now!" She shouted over not looking up from her list.

"Auntie Rosie?"

Her head snapped over, eyes filling up with tears as she saw the very child that had died in her arms months ago, the child that she had adopted as her own, standing in her emporium with a nervous smile on their lovely face, the child she cared for had ended up below with her.

"[Name]? Oh my stars! my dear [name]!"

She got up from her seat, rushing over to embrace you, wrapping her arms around you as tears gathered up in your eyes.

"I missed you Auntie Rosie."

"I missed ya too Darlin', now-" she broke the hug and held your shoulders

"Let's get you settled in shall we? Are you hungry? I think we have some leftover pinkie fingers."

"I forgot you were a cannibal."

Rosie had prepared you a room, far better than the attic, because it was a legit room, with proper insulation.

You were staring in a mirror taking in your new appearance when Rosie knocked on the door,

"Sweetheart may I come in?"

"Sure! Come on in''

Rosie walked in and placed papers in front of you,

"Be a dear and sign these please"

"is this a contract for my soul?"

"Close! It's adoption papers, sign them."

Good evening folks, I crave sleep, also my apologies this was requested ages ago and I just now got to it, hope you enjoyed even though it's messy, I just killed off the reader the angst isn't that angsty

I wrote the angst first then everything else

[trashogram]

I have to ask for that devil summoning sexy roleplay scenario with our dear Luci.

Kinktober Day Twenty-Nine — Roleplay

Warnings: Demon Sex, Blood, Ritual Hodgepodge

In a circle of salt with Summoning Demons for Dummies in your lap, you watched the candles flicker all around you. Their light cast shades and shadows on the attic walls, the kind that stretched and morphed into frightening creatures if you looked too long.

You winced, squirming on the floor as if you might be able to escape the oozing cut on your leg. Blood glistened in the soft crush of light, sliding down your knee until a drop fell to the floor.

The entire room groaned.

Something appeared in the corner of your eye — something too bright and moving — but it fled before you could turn and view it properly. The trick flipped to the other side of the room, evading you when you faced it. You sucked in the icy air, skin fraught with horripilation as you felt your control of the situation slipping through your fingers like sand.

Rain splattered against the oval window of your room, the only other sound to rival the sudden scrabble of something else in front of you.

Yellow eyes illuminated before you, stopping your heart in your chest. They hung suspended in a darkness too full of ichor to be real, untouched by light until it was blacker than black.

“Curious.” The voice was an overlap of tones, hushed and high and low and deafening. You felt it raise your flesh and crawl inside, tickling over your nerve-endings as it slithered inside and up your bones.

“What is?” You couldn’t move, chest heavy as a lead weight.

The eyes rolled over your body, red slits glowing like ruby crevices. “You’re such a soft thing. I could tear you apart like wet paper.”

Your torso jerked back violently, ignoring the meek protest in the back of your mind. The Summoning instructions stressed the importance of remaining calm as much as they did staying in your circle. Your reaction was so telling, you felt the rumble build up to shake the floorboards before you heard the demon’s laughter.

“Does that scare you, sweetheart?”

The darkness spreads like a living thing before you can blink. It moves like water, quickly flooding every inch of free space it can reach while that yellow stare closes in on you. The candles around you blow out one by one, shadows disappearing in the overflow of tangible night.

It chills you. Your eyes are so wide in your skull, yet you can hardly comprehend the change. The demon has bathed your attic in total darkness, save for where you sit in your silly little circle.

Golden sickle eyes regard you like a joke. You’re nothing but an amusement to toy with, a mouse scared to death while at the mercy of a clever feline.

“It does scare you.” The demon teases. “But there’s more to it than that, isn’t there?”

You dig your nails into the flesh of your thigh, trying to center yourself. Taking a breath, you picture your skin turning into a diamond hide. Invincible.

“I brought you here to do my bidding.” You stated. “You cannot act without my permission, and I will command you at my will.”

A kernel of something, youthful and lilting, sounded through the layers of the demon’s laughter. An image sprung to mind, of a young man with silvery-blond hair and rosy cheeks. And with that came the unbidden thawing of your heart.

The demon stopped laughing, claws crackling over the wood floor as it moved at the edge of the salt line.

“Command me then, Sinner.” That youthful tenor solidified, backed by whispers.

Lucifer had dragged you across the floor and underneath him, still mostly camouflaged by the darkness as he dove down to claim your lips.

You had broken the salt circle of your own accord, wriggling your toes through it like sand. The Devil had taken his chance to snatch you, groping your ass and lifting you up to . Whatever empty platitudes he’d rehearsed to coax you out and continue the game were abandoned when he plunged his dick into your weeping cunt.

The King couldn’t help but cry out at the feeling of you wrapped around his sheath. His overgrown claws raked down your alright sliced thighs at your answering squeal, creating lines of blood to glide down your soft skin.

You’d pleaded with him to handle you roughly, to scratch you up.

‘Just a little bit.’ You had mumbled into his neck in between hickies.

You knew just how to drive him to madness, take him into your arms and drink him up. Lucifer went cross-eyed as your hand came into view, wet with your own blood.

“Just a little bit.” You smirked with slivered eyes, moaning as Lucifer obeyed, curling his forked tongue around your fingers.

[starmatzz]

Observation duty

Seonghwa, working alone as a paranormal investigator, monitors an abandoned cabin. Everything is normal, when suddenly strange occurrences begin; the cameras cut out, and the air turns icy. As he sits in the van, he feels a chilling breath on his neck, realizing something is watching him from the cabin—or maybe closer.

author's note: um so this short ramble was inspired by the game "i am on observation duty" which i LOVE..and i actually got this idea while watching markiplier's let's play this morning lol...should i continue this? 👀 first i wanted to do it on matz but i wanted to experiment with dpr ian x seonghwa 😛

Seonghwa sat in the cramped van which he parked few minutes ago in the middle of the forest. His bag lied on the floor and he sank into the worn chair behind the control panel, fingers immediately flying across the keyboard to boot up the monitoring system.

Rows of tiny screens blinked to life one by one, each displaying a different angle of the abandoned cottage bathed in dim, gray light. The building loomed in the middle of the woods, its rotting beams and shattered windows giving it an almost sentient, hostile presence.

Seonghwa adjusted his headset, muttering to himself as he clicked through each feed. “Front hall, clear. Kitchen, clear. Basement… still creepy as hell.” He leaned back, his eyes narrowing at the flickering camera in the attic. “Of course, the attic’s acting up.”

The faint hum of static filled the van as Seonghwa ran a diagnostics check, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the keyboard. He glanced at the time—midnight, the witching hour. A part of him loved this job, the thrill of chasing the unknown. The other part wished he were in bed, far away from creaky floorboards and shadows that moved when they shouldn’t.

He reached for his thermos, taking a long sip of lukewarm coffee, and settled in for a long night of watching and waiting. 

------------------------------------------------

Two hours had dragged by, and Seonghwa was still glued to the screens, his chin resting on his palm. He clicked lazily through the camera feeds, the dim green glow of night vision casting eerie shadows on his face.

The occasional flicker of a light or subtle shift of an object barely registered anymore. A chair sliding an inch across the attic floor? A pile of books tumbling off a shelf in the living room? Nothing out of the ordinary for a place like this.

He stifled a yawn, squinting at the basement feed as the camera stuttered. Static briefly filled the screen before the image returned—a cluster of broken furniture and damp concrete walls. “Classic,” he muttered under his breath, drumming his fingers on the desk.

The clock on the monitor blinked 2:07 a.m. Seonghwa rubbed his eyes and glanced at his thermos, debating whether another cup of coffee was worth it. He sighed, clicking back to the kitchen feed.

Then, something caught his eye.

A faint movement near the edge of the frame. The camera hadn’t glitched this time—this was deliberate. A shadow, faint but distinct, moved across the kitchen floor, stopping just shy of the doorway.

Seonghwa froze, his hand hovering over the mouse. The shadow didn’t belong to anything visible. No trees swaying, no curtains blowing. It was just… there.

He leaned closer to the monitor, his pulse quickening. “Okay,” he whispered to himself, his voice barely audible. “Finally, something interesting.”

Seonghwa grabbed the spirit communication device from the shelf—a sleek, compact machine with glowing dials and faint static buzzing from the speaker. He clipped it to his belt, grabbed his flashlight, and shrugged on his jacket. The chilly night air hit him the moment he stepped out of the van, but he barely noticed, his focus locked on the looming silhouette of the cabin.

The building seemed to breathe in the darkness, its warped wooden frame groaning under an unseen weight. Seonghwa’s boots crunched against the gravel as he approached, his flashlight beam slicing through the mist that clung to the ground.

He paused at the door, his hand hovering over the rusted knob. “Alright,” he muttered under his breath, steadying himself. “Let’s see what you’ve got.”

The door creaked open with an almost theatrical protest, revealing the dim, empty interior. Seonghwa stepped inside, the stale scent of decay and damp wood washing over him. The cabin felt colder than the air outside, an unnatural chill that seeped into his bones.

He turned on the spirit box, the soft hiss of static breaking the oppressive silence. “If there’s someone here,” Seonghwa called out, his voice firm but calm, “let me know. Move something. Speak to me.”

The flashlight beam danced across the dust-covered floor as Seonghwa made his way through the front hall. His footsteps echoed faintly, blending with the hum of the machine. Nothing responded at first—just the low crackle of the spirit box.

He turned toward the kitchen, where the shadow had appeared on the camera. The moment he crossed the threshold, the flashlight flickered.

Seonghwa froze, his grip tightening. “Hello?” he said again, scanning the room. The spirit box hissed, then sputtered—brief bursts of sound crackling through the static, like words trying to form.

The static from the spirit box fizzled out, replaced by an oppressive silence that pressed down on Seonghwa like a weight. His flashlight steadied, casting long, distorted shadows across the walls, but nothing moved.

His breaths were shallow, the adrenaline coursing through him making his hands tremble. He’d come here looking for answers, for proof, but now… now he wasn’t so sure he wanted to find anything.

“Alright,” he muttered under his breath, backing toward the door. His voice sounded too loud in the stillness. “Guess you’re shy tonight.”

He turned off the spirit box and made his way out of the cabin, the wooden floor creaking beneath his boots. The cold night air hit him as soon as he stepped outside, but it did little to calm the racing in his chest.

The van was in sight, a beacon of safety in the dark, but as he approached, something felt… off. The door was ajar, swaying faintly in the breeze.

Seonghwa stopped in his tracks, his flashlight beam landing on the slightly open door. He frowned, his mind racing. He was sure he’d closed it—he always did. Had he been careless, or had someone else… something else…?

“Great,” he muttered, forcing a nervous laugh. “Maybe a raccoon wanted my coffee.”

But the humor didn’t ease the knot in his stomach. He approached cautiously, every step feeling heavier than the last. He reached out, gripping the edge of the van’s door, and peered inside.

Everything was as he’d left it—almost. The control panel hummed softly, screens still displaying the empty cabin. But the thermos he’d left on the desk had been knocked over, rolling onto the floor.

Seonghwa’s heart skipped. “I definitely didn’t leave it like that,” he whispered.

The van felt colder now, the air inside heavy and still, as though something unseen lingered. He swallowed hard, glancing back toward the cabin, then at the van.

For the first time that night, Seonghwa felt truly unsure of where he was safer—outside or in.

Seonghwa locked the van door with shaking hands, his breath fogging in the cold air. The small space felt claustrophobic, but at least it was safe—or so he hoped. He sank back into the chair, the familiar hum of the monitors grounding him as he clicked through the camera feeds again.

At first, everything seemed normal. The front hall was still, the kitchen empty, the basement a motionless void of shadows. But then, like a switch had been flipped, the cabin erupted into chaos.

On the kitchen feed, a chair slammed into the wall, tipping a table onto its side. The attic camera showed dust swirling violently, as though stirred by an invisible hurricane. In the living room, bookshelves toppled, their contents scattering across the floor.

Seonghwa leaned forward, his pulse racing. “What the hell…” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

One by one, the disturbances spread across the cabin. A lamp in the hallway shattered, its light winking out in a shower of sparks. In the basement, the camera jolted violently as something unseen yanked it from its mounting, the last image a blurred streak of gray.

Seonghwa’s hand hovered over the keyboard, unsure of what to do, when suddenly, the screens flickered. The feeds blinked in and out, the images distorted with static. Then, all at once, they went black.

The van fell into an eerie silence, the hum of the equipment gone. The only light came from Seonghwa’s flashlight, which he hadn’t turned off earlier. Its faint beam illuminated the van’s cramped interior, casting long, twisting shadows.

For a moment, Seonghwa just sat there, frozen, his hands gripping the edge of the desk. His own breathing sounded too loud, too fast, in the stifling quiet.

Seonghwa jumped as the computer screens flickered back to life, casting the van in an eerie glow. The once-familiar interface was gone, replaced by a stark red warning flashing across every monitor:

TOO MANY ANOMALIES

TOO MANY ANOMALIES

The text repeated in rhythmic flashes, bathing the van in alternating light and shadow. Seonghwa’s throat tightened as he stared at the words, his mind racing. This wasn’t part of the system—it couldn’t be.

“What the hell is this…” he whispered, reaching for the keyboard, but before he could touch it, the screens went black again.

The silence returned, heavier this time, pressing down on him like a physical weight. His flashlight flickered once, then twice, before steadying again.

That’s when he felt it.

The air in the van grew icy, sharp enough to make him shiver despite his jacket. His breath came out in short, visible puffs, hanging in the still air. And then, just behind him, a sensation that made his blood run cold—a faint, deliberate exhale against the back of his neck.

Seonghwa froze, his heart hammering so loudly it drowned out everything else. He wanted to turn, to shine his flashlight behind him, but his body wouldn’t obey. The hairs on his neck stood on end, and he could feel it—something close, too close, waiting for him to acknowledge it.

Summoning every ounce of courage, he gripped the flashlight tighter and whipped around, the beam of light cutting through the darkness.

Nothing.

The van was empty. No one there, no sign of movement. Yet the cold lingered, an oppressive chill that made his skin crawl.

Suddenly, the flashlight flickered again, and the spirit box clipped to his belt crackled to life. A distorted voice emerged, low and guttural:

“Scared?”

[crossover-enthusiast]

Putting this one in a separate post bc I want to (warning for mildly realistic but still cartoony spiders)

Anyways! @prof-ramses posited a v interesting theory that the giant spider isn't going to be an antagonist per-say, but rather its babies

And that got me thinking, and realizing, that there are a lot of spiders in Lila's house, from the very beginning

There are two little ones in the first ep, one in the stairwell and one in the mousehole next to the stairs, in addition to the large one we've grown accustomed to

(^ brightened for visibility)

Pelo even points out the stairwell spider in his (free to view) Patreon posts on the first episode, while simultaneously completely ignoring the giant spider

And then in Unwanted Guest there's a surprisingly large spider skittering between the floorboards in the pan up to the attic

Along with a smaller but still decently big spider chilling in the attic itself

And a tiny spider got itself stuck on Dexter's mouse trap

Also semi-related there's this big thing wrapped up in one of the webs. I have no idea what it is

Moloch says he was forced to eat rats and spiders while trapped in the attic -- interestingly, we haven't seen any rats in Lila's house, at least as far as I'm aware. Maybe the spiders take care of them as well?

There aren't any new spiders in Deadly Smiles to my knowledge, just a new shot of the big one

There are no spiders at all in The Stars or Tender Treats, presumably because of the short attic time in both (the giant spider was drawn in the TT attic scene, but the camera doesn't pan far enough to show it)

Spiders even briefly appear in the Tender Treats ARG! There are three decently-sized ones next to the family photo

I had to circle them because they're REALLY well hidden, even after brightening the image

Yeah, there are... a LOT more spiders crawling around this house than I was aware of, likely even more since Moloch is no longer there to do pest control

[whumpsy-daisy]

Whumptober 2024

Whumptober 2024 No.3 Wrongfully Captured

TW: being held at gunpoint, referenced of whumper's drug use, pistol whipping.

Whumpee had his back to the door, He could feel his heart threatening to beat right out of his chest.

"Open the fucking door Whumper!"

Whumpee didn't know what Whumper did in his free time, all he knew was that everyone had a problem with it and in the last month Whumper had stopped coming to work and forced him to wear his name tag some nights. Whumpee had very little choice in the matter. Not a lot of places wanted people that didn't have experience and if he ever wanted to move out of the attic of the store he needed to work.

Whumpee had tried to explain he wasn't Whumper but the nametag situation just made him seem like a liar. He didn't know what Whumper didn't give them or what he had done to warrant two men with guns coming into the store.

"Get in the car I'll handle it."

The pounding stopped and he listened as their footsteps moved away from the door, he heard the men rummage through the store and the shoplifting alarm go off before the bell rung letting him know they'd left the store. He stayed frozen up until he heard the car drive off.

"Fuck..." Whumpee scrambled out of the break room and to the counter grabbing the phone and calling Whumper. This had gone entirely too far. He signed up to work at a gas station and yet it felt like Whumper had just shoved all his problems onto Whumpee.

Whumpee was growing impatient waiting for Whumper to pick up the phone. He knew well Whumper wasn't asleep, not this early at least

"C'mon..c'mon." He said through gritted teeth, his hands still shaking from the encounter. Whumpee could barely hear the phone ringing over his own heartbeat.

"Hey."

"Whumper?! I can't stay-

"It's Whumper leave a message, and I'll probably call ya back."

The beep played and Whumpee groaned. His stupid voice mail had gotten him many times but now of all times was the worst possible

"Whumper, I need you to come get me...please call me back...some guys they-

A crash came from the breakroom.

"You piece of shit!" Whumpee growled, dropping the phone rushing to open the door for Whumper. Whumper claimed he'd forgotten them but Whumpee knew by now he'd probably lost them. "You were here and you were gonna let them shoot me?!"

Whumpee yanked open the door, one of the men from earlier stood in the doorway. Whumpee's heart dropped. The man wasted no time slamming a crow bar into the side of his legs. Whumpee screamed, failing to catch himself he landed on his side clutching at his knee. A boot to the chest forced him on his back. Whumpee gasped, the store lights blinding him as he was forced to face the man. He bent down forcing whumpee's head into a black drawstring bag.

"You've always made things so difficult for people y'know that. This has been a long time coming." The man lifted him with ease by the collar of his shirt.

"I'm not Whumper!" Whumpee rasped into the bag, the air inside already getting hot. The man dragged him across the store. He yelped trying again to speak but he was cut off by a monotone voice

"Whumper we're not gonna keep playing this game of cat and mouse you need to give Carewhumper his money back." The man's tone was just as scary as the situation. He was talking right now as if he wasn't trying to shoot him not even fifteen minutes ago.

"I'm not Whumper....he's not here I don't know where he is." Whumpee pleaded. He heard the man above him sigh. The collar of his shirt was yanked upwards bringing him onto his knees. Something metal slammed against his head and stayed pressed there. He didn't need to see it to know it was a gun.

"I'm not Whumper!" He screamed, tears welling up in his eyes. The inside of the bag was growing warmer his breathing alone being the main source. He couldn't take a normal breath, he struggling to keep it under control.

"You're still wearing your name tag you fucking junkie. You don't get to start over with your life until you give Carewhumper his money." The man punctuated every word with the barrel of the gun hitting it against Whumpee's head. A strangled whimper left him as the man grabbed his throat.

"Do you have the money?"

Whumpee had no money to give anyone he was barely taking care of himself on the daily. He knew what little he had couldn't possibly be enough. Whumper had tricked him into paying out his debt.

"I-In the register" He sputtered, the man shoved him back on the ground. Whumpee landed on his back but before he could try to get up he felt a pair of his flip him onto his hands and knees.

"Don't move."

Whumpee's face grew warmer from his own ragged breathing and the tears spilling over into the bag. His heartbeat was in his ears as he struggled to listen for the sound of the cash resister. He heard the quiet ding.

"You must think this is a joke."

"I'm not Whumper!" He sobbed as he felt a pair of rough hands grab him dragging him out of the store now.

"Please! I don't have any money! Everything I have is in the register!" He sobbed, the rocks of the asphalt dug into his knees as he was forced onto them again. Cold metal came down swiftly, he reached his hands up hoping to make it stop only to have them slapped away.Whumpee tried again and was met with another hit, and another and another before his collar was turned loose. Without anyone holding him up he fell backwards unable to do anything to keep his balance. His head crashed into the ground. Whumpee whined, the bag getting more hot as he continued to cry.

"Carewhumper knows a little bit of medical stuff... we can sell a couple of your fingers....maybe a kidney?"

"Im not whumper" He choked out. "

And we're not gonna hurt you anymore." The tone was sarcastic. Whumpee was met with a swift kick to the stomach and a pair of hand yanking his arms behind his back, duct taping his wrists behind his back before getting his ankles and knees together.

"Let's see what Carewhumper wants to do with him."

Another pair of hands grab onto him shoving him down into the trunk of the car. They pull off the bag revealing Whumpee's bloodied face. Whumpee stares at the two men above him. His vision too blurry to make out any details of the men. The trunk top slams shut.

[saintsofwarding]

BURIAL

Chapter 11

(You know it's gonna hurt. Don't you?)

"It's...it's not true. I know it's not."

(Don't be stupid, Donna. Everyone leaves you except me. Everyone betrays you. And it always hurts)

"Even you?"

(Silly Donna. I'll never betray you. I only want what's best for you)

"No you don't. She's what's best for me. She makes me feel-"

(Don't you dare say whole)

"She makes me feel in control."

(You think control is what you need? The guilt will eat you alive! Your dreams protect you, dummy! You won't be able to handle living when they're gone)

"And neither will you."

(Careful, Donna. I can put you somewhere far away. You know I can. You said it yourself. I'm stronger than you. But-)

A brush of porcelain fingers, cold as a corpse's.

(-we're so much stronger together)

"She's not working for Mother."

(They all work for Mother)

"Not like that! She's not her spy. She can't be, she can't, she helped me, she stayed. She came back-" Her thoughts scrambled and stuttered. She rose and paced back and forth and back and forth. The well yawned before her, its depths endless. It might have gone down forever. "She cares about me. She's not like Violeta- she accepts me. All of me."

(Silly little mouse. Caught in a trap)

"Shut up shut up shut up shut up-" She reached up, grabbing fistfuls of her own hair. Strands broke off between her fingers like wires. The tentacles on her face began to writhe and slap against her own skin, responding to her agitation. The pressure in her head built. She gripped tighter as her voice rose to a scream. "-Stop stop stop stop, I'm not listening, I don't hear you-"

(Yes you do)

"No I don't!"

(Yes you do, yes you doooo)

"No no no!" She slammed her fists into the wall, hard enough she felt her palms split and shear open on the rough stone. Blood trickled down her arms, twisting into her flesh. Her palms grew warm. She knew without looking they'd already begun to heal over. "No! No! No! Bad girl, bad Angie, bad ME!"

She railed and screamed and beat the walls and when she was done, her throat raw and scraped, she turned and collapsed back against the stones, breathing hard, clutching at her upper arms. A strangled keen escaped her, a weird animal sound, echoing through the darkness. The pulse inside her head went on, sickening, comforting.

Angie drifted before her like a small ghost. She nudged Donna, who opened her arms to let the doll settle in them.

(She doesn't know the half of it yet. It'll be just like last time, that ridiculous blonde creature with her stupid little shoes. You can't change the past, Donna. No matter how hard you try. Even if she showed you differently, it's only a dream)

"I can't hurt her," Donna whispered. A warm tear streaked down her face.

Angie leaned forward and licked it from her cheek. She chattered her teeth. (You won't have to. You have me)

Donna hugged the doll to her chest, half-wishing she could drop her down the well and watch the darkness swallow her.

"And what would I do," she whispered. "Without you?"

(You'll see)

(They always betray you)

(And we always have to kill them. Each and every one)

***

Elena heaved aside a heap of old furniture in the attic and found it. It stared back at her, lenses filmed with dust and tinged green. She'd seen a few around the village, left over from a great war that had, a long time ago, raged beyond the valley's borders, a war that Miranda had claimed to have protected the Black God's followers from, keeping the horrors of the outside world at bay.

A gas mask. She'd never worn one, but she knew its function- some of the workers Lord Heisenberg employed at the uppermost levels of his factory, processing the junkyard detritus he unearthed from the land around his domain, were issued the same sort. This one looked to be in much worse repair, its leather strap cracked and peeling, its olive green casing scarred-up. But, examining it, Elena found no holes in it, and when she fit it over her face and inhaled, the air tasted musty, hissing in through its strange elongated filter.

Let's hope it'll be enough.

She removed it and set it in a basket, along with the other things she'd gathered from the shack out in the garden. A set of long chains, and a pair of manacles, secured with a stout padlock.

Elena climbed down the ladder. She descended the stairs. Her shadow crept beside her, silent on the gleaming wood walls.

Donna waited below, Angie in her arms.

"I...I don't know," Donna began.

"It's going to work."

"If it doesn't, she'll kill you," Donna said. She squeezed Angie tighter. "She's told me. She'll hurt you. She'll trap you so deep inside yourself you'll never find a way out."

"So fight her."

"I'm not-"

"You'll have to be. If you want this to end." Elena gripped her hand, tight. "It's okay. We're in this together."

"You promise?"

"I promise."

Donna nodded, her brow creased. She stood aside, showing the curious objects she'd assembled on the small table by the rocking chair. A collection of long taper candles. A lighter engraved with a strange many-headed beast. A black mirror, small as the palm of a hand, and so highly-polished it seemed like a perfect darker double of the world. A sprig of yellow flowers in a vase.

Elena heard her small inhale.

"It was easier," Donna said. "To be dead. To be a part of the dreams, not the dreamer. It was like sleeping forever. I told myself none of it was real. But now I must wake up."

"Some say the whole world is a dream," Elena said. "The Black God's dream. Or that we're all heading toward its dreams when we die."

"So then I really have been dead all these years."

"Then you're even more miraculous than I thought," Elena told her. "It's easy to die. Harder to return from death."

Donna faced her. The look on her face had changed. Still afraid, of course. Still so afraid, that nameless fear that was the undercurrent of all their lives, and yet something in it had settled. For the first time, Elena saw resolve in her single eye.

Donna reached forward, suddenly, and caught her by the hand. "Elena," she said.

"We should get-"

"Hush," Donna whispered, and leaned forward, drawing her hand up Elena's arm, to her cheek. Drawing her face to her lips.

Her mouth brushed Elena's.

Cold, still. Just a touch.

Once, twice.

And then again. Elena's hand came up to hold Donna's face, pulling her to her; the touch of her lips became something harder, became a kiss like falling. Her fingers in Donna's hair; Donna's hands at her face, cupping her jaw, pulling her in.

Her strange cold skin took on Elena's heat as she touched her. Finally, she felt alive. Her mouth tasted bittersweet like her flowers, the faint writhe of her face against Elena's somehow, against all odds, exactly what she wanted to feel.

She wouldn't have it any other way. Wouldn't have Donna any other way than this, now, monstrous and bitter and warm in her arms.

She pulled back, a little. Elena's lips felt bruised, her face flushed; Donna's eye was bright as she looked at her and gave a nod.

"Now we get started," she said.

"Yes, my lady," Elena told her, and at last Donna broke out in the smile she'd been waiting for, full and sweet, nothing held back.

She pressed her hand to Elena's chest, then turned, gathering up the candles. She gave half to Elena, and, together, they traced out a circle on the floor, around the rocking chair. Elena lit them one by one, and soon the darkened hall was full of their light, a sphere of flicker and glow that threw strange shadows on the far walls, made them seem to leap and dance as if they had minds of their own. Elena dropped the lighter in her pocket as Donna took a seat in the rocking chair.

Slowly, methodically, she lay the other objects down at the pointed toes of her boots. The polished black mirror, laying on the rug like a thing cut out of night, and, by its side, the vase with the sprig of yellow flowers.

Pollen drifted in the gloom and underlit Donna's face, throwing harsh shadow over the fine lines of cheekbone and jaw and eye socket. Elena imagined she could see the shape of Donna's skull beneath the skin, and shivered, at once cold.

Donna exhaled, settling Angie in her lap.

The candle flames lengthened, reaching toward the ceiling, long enough to snap.

"Now," Donna whispered.

Elena took up the chains. One manacle went around Donna's wrist; the other went around Angie's midsection. She wound the long chains around and around them both, around the rocking chair.

"Tighter," Donna told her. "I can escape this."

"I don't want-"

"Tighter," Donna hissed. In her lap, Angie's teeth began to chitter, her porcelain fingers clicking against one another.

Elena pulled the chains tighter; their links bit deep into Donna's clothes, leaving smears of rust on the black taffeta. Donna closed her eye; her lips fluttered.

The candle flames spat and flickered.

The padlock clicked in place. Throat tight, Elena knelt before Donna and touched her cheek. "Hey," she said. "You still there?"

"I'm here."

"Good." Elena stood back. "Okay. What now?"

The air pressure dropped. The temperature plunged; her breath became visible in the air, and a high scream sounded in the back of her skull, a buzz-saw through bone. She gasped and flinched, but stayed rigid, stayed where she was.

It's not real. None of it is real.

"You..."

Elena looked down. Donna's voice scraped from her. "You...know this will never work..."

"So prove me wrong. Come on."

"I'm...not strong enough...we...we're stronger together, she tells me so..." A burst of manic laughter escaped her. "She whispers to me at night, all about you, all about the way your skin tastes, the salt off its surface..."

"Come on, Angie, don't be disgusting," Elena said. Her hands tightened into fists at her sides. "Donna, you can fight it. Fight her."

"You don't get it. How can we look in a mirror and not see our whole selves?" Another course of laughter. It echoed around Elena, circling her; she heard pattering footsteps, the scrape of porcelain against wood. A sharp metallic ring, like a chorus of knives drawn.

Whispering.

Little tiny voices.

The dolls are watching.

She saw them staring from the windows of the dollhouse.

Something's inside.

"Break the mirror," Donna-Angie said. "Break the mirror and keep your eyes on what you can see in front of you. Break it and you never have to cry again. Break it all and forget!"

"Don't listen to her, Donna," Elena commanded.

Donna screamed; the sound tore from her, a physical force; it raked through Elena, shaking the foundations of the house. Wood creaked, walls groaning, dust sifting from the ceiling as Donna howled and twisted in her chair. The chain links strained and screeched. In her lap Angie woke, a malevolent light glittering in her eyes, kicking up her limbs as she twisted in turn against the manacle holding her in place.

"Not fair!" she screeched. She slapped at the manacle. "Not! Fair! You don't play nice, Lupu, not nice at all!" "Well, you started it." Elena pushed forward; her limbs shook, joints turned to water. It took effort, like walking against a ferocious wind. Another wave of screams burst from Donna, black liquid spurting down the sides of her mouth, dripping from her eyes and onto the floor. It writhed like worms. The black mirror shone in the candlelight, searing-bright. "Don't make me smash you into bad memories."

"And kill Donna?" The doll lowered her head. "You wouldn't do that, now, would you?"

"It wouldn't-"

"Oh, yes, it would." Her mouth fell open. "Ohhh, poor Elena. Thinking you might be able to...what? Save her from herself? Save that sad severed little piece of Donna Beneviento from the big bad monster made by her mind? Well, tough luck, sweetie! You get the whole deal...or you get nothing! Nothing, nothing, nothing!"

"Donna," Elena called. "Donna, listen to me. She's nothing. You said it yourself, she's just an old doll your father made, and you're all grown up now. You don't need her anymore. Tell her to go! Tell her to go away so far she'll never get out again!"

"Nothing, nothing, nothing." Angie had made a little song out of the word. "Nothing, nothing, nothing at all. Shhh."

Donna slumped backward, suddenly, her face so covered with black liquid Elena couldn't see her skin anymore; her neck was twisted back at a painful angle.

No- Elena stepped forward, heart pounding, but- her hands were still moving, twitching on the chair arms.

She stopped, breathing hard. Don't fall for it. Don't lose control.

Angie tittered. "Baby's sleeping."

"Donna," Elena said, between clenched teeth. "This is...this is just light, it's just memories. Like the projector. It isn't real."

"You're lying."

"I'm not-"

"You are. I know you are. You can't love her. You're going to leave her. Everyone does. You have to understand that I'm the only one she needs." Angie leaned forward as far as the manacle would allow. "You have to get that she's too weak for anything else."

Elena took a sharp breath. It hurt. The walls shimmered around her; on the edges, in the back of her mind, waited golden sunlight.

Donna was retreating. She'd regress again, so far away that Elena couldn't reach her. Reality was agony; that place, that dream, was far easier. Again and again she'd gone there, retreated there, leaving the rest of herself to wreak nightmares on the world beyond the borders of her mind.

She'd killed, Elena understood. She didn't know how many. She'd visited horrors on the innocent, on Violeta. On her. And still she couldn't leave her. Still she stayed, her body shaking with terror, not of Donna but for her, wishing she could go to her again and kiss her face and see if she'd wake up that way.

She wouldn't. Elena had run out of options. Only the truth remained.

I'm sorry.

"It was Miranda," she said.

Angie's mouth snapped shut.

"It was Miranda," Elena said again. Heat welled in her eyes; her throat was so tight she felt like she was being strangled. "Miranda...sent me here to spy on you. Or she would have killed me and my father. I...I could only think of him...too scared for anything else. And, saints, I'm sorry. I'm so, so, sorry, Donna, I told her about you. About you not being able to control your powers. About...what you told me, your secrets, your fears..."

Donna was lifting her head, black liquid streaming from her. Her eye was wide, shining. Angie began to laugh, low and dark.

"You did?" Donna whispered.

Elena couldn't speak. Tears streamed down her face as she nodded.

"It's true?"

She nodded again.

This time, Donna's scream tore through her like knives. The house erupted into darkness, a storm of screams and howls and shattering, the shadows rising in monstrous form, wolves and witches and nameless things with too many claws, too many eyes, crawling toward the ring of light as if they might extinguish it.

But Elena was ready. She was fast. She'd gotten fast.

She slammed the gas mask over her face and tugged the straps tight. It sealed around her face, and her next inhale tasted not of bittersweet flowers but stale air, swirling through her lungs. Nausea rippled through her; she doubled over and retched a mouthful of black slime into the gas mask. It spattered the inside of the glass, but it didn't writhe like before, no, didn't move at all.

Breathing hard, straightening, Elena stared out through the mask. It was already accumulating a rime of yellowish dust. That must have been the pollen. The house wasn't a chamber of nightmares anymore, just a hall with a ring of candles on the floor, and, before her, twisting and tearing at her chains:

Donna.

Her hair had come loose and hung around her shoulders in lank ropes, veins standing out against her pale face as she screamed and shrieked, black tears streaming from her eyes, the doll on her lap yelling abuse at Elena.

"Cheater!" she screeched.

"You shut up," Elena snapped at the doll. She looked at Donna. "I said I wouldn't leave you. I'm not lying. I know you'll get loose from those chains eventually. And when you do..."

She swallowed.

"Whatever you choose to do, I'm still gonna help you," Elena told her. "I trust you. I love you. Hold on."

She turned, already tugging the keys from her bodice, and ran. Down the darkened hallway, straight for the elevator.

Straight for the basement.

***

(You see? You SEE?)

"This isn't funny anymore, Angie!"

(Oh, I'm funny? How flattering)

"Just leave me alone..."

(To mourn? Poor Donna. I know you thought she'd be the answer to your loneliness but your answer was right in front of you all along...)

"I...I don't care."

Angie's eyes sprang wide. She drifted before Donna in the murky darkness, lace veil billowing around her.

(What)

"You can't bully me anymore."

(How dare you talk to me like that. After all I've done for you!)

"I...I know. And I used to need it. I used to want it. But I know now I can survive alone. And I don't care what you say."

They faced one another, now, like they had so many times before. The echoes of Donna's hoarse voice spilled around them, surrounding them. Surrounding her; for the first time in a long time her heartbeat spiked- not from fear, but from anger.

No: rage.

It boiled through her, a white-hot sear through her veins. Rage against Elena, against Miranda, against her parents, against her own weakness and silence and terrors. She wouldn't turn it against herself, not this time. Angie wasn't the issue here. Angie was a part of herself, always had been, a part she'd rather not face. But now here Angie was, looking her in the eye, commanding her body like a puppet. She saw, dully, as if watching a badly tuned television, her own body twisting and screaming in the chair, throwing herself against her chains so hard they'd leave bruises. Felt Angie's righteous hatred against Elena standing before her, dark eyes wide and focused on her with a ferocity Donna hadn't seen for a long time. If she had, ever.

She was so beautiful. She'd become so beautiful to her.

Fight it, Donna, she said. Come on. Fight it. Was it real? It didn't matter.

(No, Donna. She betrayed you. Now do to her what you did to everyone else you loved. Feel nothing. It's safer that way)

"I can't..."

(Let me do it. Let me hurt them. I can dream up tortures that would make even Dimitrescu shudder, just you wait and see! Prisons of nightmares. Endless. Glittering. Full of teeth. You know I can. I'll keep you safe)

"I...I don't need you to protect me."

(Don't do this, Donna!) A note of panic entered the voice. The sound of it changed, becoming more childlike, less sinister, a little girl's voice crying out for her. Claudia's voice. (Please, please don't do this to us-)

"No." Donna grabbed the doll in both hands. She writhed and gnashed her teeth but she hung on as tight as she could.

"I," she said, through grit teeth, "Don't. Need. You. Anymore!"

Angie began to laugh. The sound eclipsed the echoes of Donna's voice, the flare of her defiance burning through her; the darkness pressed in, twining up Donna's skirt and over her skin like tendrils of black mold. The doll's eyes gleamed as she leaned in.

(Little Dolly Donna. Then you leave me no choice)

She realized it an instant too slow. A call. An echo ringing down the mycelial connection that weaved around her, a web across the whole of the village, a web that connected them all. Donna, more so than most. And wasn't Angie a part of her?

"Angie, no," Donna choked, but it was too late.

(Better tidy up, Donna.

Mother's coming)

***

Elena didn't dare remove the gas mask. Tears dripped down her face, salty on her lips. She tried to steady her breathing, slow her heartbeat.

Just stay calm.

The elevator slid downward, downward, the rumble of its mechanism shuddering in Elena's gut.

Just keep going.

The sound of Donna's screams and Angie's cackling had long-since faded, and the silence had rushed in, the loudest noise that of Elena's too-fast heartbeat, thudding in her ears like a ceremony drumbeat.

She'd spat up a couple more mouthfuls of black liquid. It smelled floral. Was that the pollen's effect on her body? She had no doubt spores were deep in her brain, now. Maybe...maybe Donna had retracted her control once she'd put on the gas mask. Maybe a tiny part of her had recognized that Elena wanted to help her, and had relinquished control over her.

It was a small hope, a foolhardy one, but Elena would hang onto it with everything she had. She'd believe it.

Down, and down, and down, into the depths. The weight pressed on her mind, a surface tension easily snapped. The air chilled, like before, and the darkness came up to meet her, and then the light slid up from her feet to her scalp and the elevator was grinding to a halt with the wheeze of gears. Ding, it went.

Elena slid open the gate. Her first step creaked on the dusty floor. She paced ahead, past the door to the study, past the door that was locked. She tried it again, and it creaked open at a push. Inside was a storage room, shelves full of an enviable stock of fabrics, filing boxes, broken furniture, stacks upon stacks of old film reels for the projector. Nothing moved in the shadows; nothing was out of place.

Elena moved on. Her shadow moved alongside her. She felt a faint rumble underfoot- water? Surely not the falls, this far down. How far belowground was she, anyway? She'd tried to count during her descent but lost the numbers after she reached fifty. Deep in the cliffside.

That's where the Black God lives, the priests had said in church, once, reading from Miranda's tomes and treatise. Far, far below us, for the world is its womb, and the divine is birthed in its endless dreams.

These didn't feel like divine realms to Elena. The air was damp, crawling against her skin. Black mold dripped down the walls, infecting the antique furniture, the comfortable chairs, worsening the further down the hall Elena went. Deeper, deeper. She kept track of the hallways, the turns, but it all looked the same, whitewash and wood panels, gloom and flickering lights held within glass sconces on the walls. She passed the phone on its stand. It didn't ring. She hurried by and on, turning a corner, facing a hallway so pitch-black she could not see more than an arm's length ahead, even with the lit sconce behind her.

Her breathing quickened. The darkness seemed to shift before her- movement? Her fear making monsters where there were none? She reached for her flashlight and clicked it on. It illuminated, harshly, the whitewashed corridor, the darkened sconces, the cracked floorboards. Something skittered away from the light. She shone it up and flinched.

It glanced off doors. A pair of them, heavy wood with brass handles.

Elena clenched her teeth. There's nothing here. All your nightmares, they were inside you the whole time. A mirror, remember?

But still she felt it. Like a memory, forgotten. A terrible act, remembered not by her mind but with her body, with her nerves and her breath and the drone of dread in her gut. A weight, deep inside. A weight, warping the world around it out of shape, so heavy it pulled all things toward it.

Somehow, her foot moved. She stepped into the darkness. The sound of her breathing quickened inside the gas mask, the haze of pollen thickening on its lenses. The doors came closer. One was cracked, a gap of light shining from the far side.

She pulled open the doors.

Elena remembered this room. She'd seen it only through a haze of drugs and pain, when she'd first glimpsed Donna without her veil. Arm flayed open, being stitched back together. A low-ceilinged stone room, walls supported with rock arches. An ogre's kitchen from a fairy tale. The table was there, stout wood scarred like a butcher's block. From racks on the ceiling hung not corpse limbs but half-finished dolls, some missing eyes, some limbs, some their clothes, naked and sexless. Others were just heads, their wire armatures dangling below them like viscera. On shelves around the room waited doll parts, a sewing machine, a workbench arranged with paints and colorless glass eyes.

Through a bank of windows to her left Elena saw, lit with a blinding greenish light, what looked like a medical room, brown glass jars of chemicals lined up on counters, syringes and scalpels gleaming hungrily.

Something waited there, on a steel tray, on the countertop. A gleam of gold.

Elena moved closer. She stepped into the greenish light and stopped, staring down at the thing in the tray.

It was hair. A long, braided hank of blonde hair, attached to a scrap of bloody skin. The braid was secured with a red ribbon.

Violeta's hair.

The dread deepened. Elena felt it in her chest, on the back of her throat. Her heart pounded. Her nerves trembled, on the verge of fraying.

No. Don't you dare lose your nerve now. She could still be down here. Somewhere. She could still be alive.

Elena backed from the medical room, turned from the workshop, and stepped down an adjoining corridor. The hallway changed around her, transitioning from whitewashed walls to stout stone, slick with damp. The lights were now naked bulbs on wires, buzzing, releasing a faint wash of amber light that rendered all shadow twice as dark.

Strange objects waited on shelves. Broken dolls and odd little ornaments, music boxes covered in grime as if unearthed from a grave. Primitive statuettes with pits for eyes, carved from wood or crystal.

Elena clicked on her flashlight. It hit a door before her. This was different than the rest of the place. It looked ancient, wood warped and blackened, clinging to dark iron hinges that spiraled like goat's horns. The handle was dark iron, too, and carved into the door's center was the Beneviento moon and sun. It looked, like the statuettes, more primitive than Elena had seen before, as if this place was far older than the rest of the house. It looked older than anything Elena had ever seen before. Was this part of whatever had come before the house? Whatever had rested on this land centuries in the past?

She didn't know. But she recognized the metal of the handle, of the empty lock below. She reached for the keys around her neck and for the first time took up the small iron one, the key Violeta had seen fit to hide away.

It fit and turned. The lock dropped with a heavy thud. Elena felt it in the pit of her stomach. The hinges sang as she pushed the door wide, as it fell open to complete darkness.

She'd thought she'd seen dark before. Nothing like this. Nothing like this emptiness. Away, and away, echoes fanning into the void. She lifted her flashlight before it overtook her. Steps stretched downward, a descent into a black pit. Hand-chiseled, flagstone, slick with damp and years of grime. The dread deepened to a pulse.

You can't do it.

She did. Her foot slid onto the first step, and she kept going. Down, and down, and down. Her flashlight beam flickered; she gave the flashlight a smack and it steadied. Was it dimmer than before? It's your mind playing tricks. She couldn't let the fear win.

On and on through the wending halls.

The heavy mineral smell of the place was thick in her head, even through the gas mask. The smell of a deep world, decomposed.

Soon her hands and feet were numb. She kept going. Water dripped from somewhere ahead. An end to this purgatory of stairs?

Don't look back.

The flashlight beam caught on the jagged arch of an empty doorway and the slimy flagstones of whatever lay beyond. Elena stepped from the last stair and onto flat stone. Dust drifted in the air. Echoes plashed around her. She heard, again, water, and felt the humidity of the air on her bare hands.

The walls curved inward. A circular room? In the middle, something rose from the floor- a low stone wall?

No. A well.

Elena's breath caught. She stepped closer. It opened before her, a mouth, an empty eye. A yawning circle of perfect blackness. Rusty rungs were bolted into its sides. Elena moved to its edge, then stopped. Her flashlight beam had touched something on the far side of the room. Something slumped. A flash of gold.

She lifted the beam.

For a moment she wasn't sure what she was looking at. A mannequin, surely. Its white legs were sprawled, one bare foot twisted to the side. Fine black lines circled its ankles, its knees. Elena's gaze traveled up the legs, past the long skirt embroidered with red silk flowers. The matching bodice, the dangling, boneless arms, the hands curled against the floor. The head, twisted sharply to the side. Long ringlets of blonde hair fell around its face.

Glass eyes stared off into nothing.

"V...Violeta?" Elena whispered.

It was her. But it was a doll, too. Those weren't lines on her limbs, they were joints, as if each part of her body had been disarticulated and put back together. Her skin was glossy like porcelain, two red circles painted on her cheeks. Her hinged mouth hung open, her eyes wide and sightless, one cracked down the middle.

Elena began to shake. No. No. The doll's chest was split open as if with an axe chop. A curled, tentacled shape waited inside. Maybe it had once been fleshy, fetal, but now it was white crystal, glimmering amidst patches of sticky dried gore.

Elena couldn't move. She felt locked in place, unable to so much as breathe. Somewhere, her mind screamed at her to run, get out. But all she could do was stand, locked in place, and stare at the thing slumped there against the wall, half-waiting for it to move.

But it wouldn't, would it? Violeta had said so herself, in her journals. Donna had tried to give her the gift. And the gift had rejected her.

"Poor, poor Violeta."

A lightning-sear. A crack through Elena's whole system. It brought her back to life, broke her paralysis. She whirled. The flashlight beam fell on Angie and Donna, standing in the doorway behind her.

"What did you do to her?" Elena's voice grated from her throat.

"To her? Tried to save her, ungrateful thing. She saw Donna's face and oooh, didn't like that very much. So shallow." Angie chattered her teeth as she raked her hand down the cracked side of her face. "Called us a monster. So I showed her what monsters do. I showed her Claudia. Just to scare her. And it did!"

She let out a cackle. "We thought she was gone for good but she came back. Said she wanted to talk. But talk was not what she wanted, oh, no. She had a knife, smuggled out in her skirts, and she almost got us, too. Nasty, nasty. So we showed her something else scary and in the struggle and the screaming she fell down the stairs and cracked her head right open."

Angie shrugged.

"So...Donna gave her a piece of her gift," she went on. "It didn't work. She didn't come back to life. But look at her now! Isn't she pretty?"

"It-" Elena's mind raced. "It wasn't you, then. It was only a mistake. She wasn't supposed to die, was she?"

She looked at Donna, holding Angie, silent behind her black veil. "None of it was your fault! Not your parents and not Violeta. You wanted to save them all-"

"Not our fault?" Angie's shriek echoed off the walls. "I'll show you what's our fault! I'll show you right now!"

She sprang from Donna's arms and into the air, smacking into Elena and hanging on with hooked porcelain fingers. She was surprisingly heavy; Elena screamed and swung round, but the doll clenched down. She felt her scrabble at the back of Elena's gas mask, felt the gnawing of sharp little teeth-

"Get off me!" She swung round again, for the wall this time, hoping to scrape the little monster off, but-

Oh, saints-

Cold air rushed over her face. She held her breath, but maybe it was too late, maybe breathing it didn't matter. Maybe it had been in her all along.

The dream rippled before her, through her, and she slumped as Angie leapt from her and back to Donna's waiting arms.

Elena panted, breathing lungfuls of the pollen-filled air. What was the difference now? She lifted her eyes to Donna, understanding. A hole in the world. A weight that pulled all things down with it.

"You killed Claudia," she said.

[littlepissboyman]

Spiders are something I don’t really care about unless they’re in inconvenient locations. I like them, I suppose. They keep out pests like flies, roaches, and all sorts of critters that I don’t like. I’m pretty sure I’ve seen a mouse caught in one of their webs.

That was the first strange incident. You could have called it luck, or some strange version of divine intervention, but those spiders just kept on going with it. It started out as small things, relatively. Their webs started to change shape, and they themselves got bigger every time I saw them. Eventually, they were the size of the mice they ate.

I found that out when I went up into the attic to fetch some tools for a project I was going to start, only to be confronted with thousands of them staring at me. I ignored them. It’s hard to know how to react to a new situation, so I simply didn’t. I climbed up inside, grabbed my impact drill, and skedaddled.

That night, I couldn’t decide if I was hallucinating or i had actually seen what I saw, so I went back up with a peace offering. It wasn’t anything fancy, just a deer leg that I hadn’t bothered processing yet. The spiders went absolutely nuts. It was like a mosh pit up there, and I slowly crept away from the scene.

A month later, I did it again. Doesn’t hurt to keep relations good, right? The spiders weren’t as ferocious this time, seeming almost civilized in the way they ate. I continued giving the spiders a good amount of meat each month, and before I knew it, a year had passed.

I had started to record my findings in a notebook that I hid under my mattress. For science, you know? The only difference between fucking around and conducting an experiment is writing it down.

The spiders got as big as my hand laid out flat. They didn’t make normal webs any longer, after I had put an architecture book in the attic. They made arches, bridges, entire buildings out of web and items in the attic. It was scary. Last trip up, they had begun clearing a space in the middle of the attic. They were working together to do so.

I didn’t know if I should have done something at that point. I was watching evolution unfold at my fingertips, and I wanted to see how it ended. Discovery channel would have loved it, and pest control would be utterly terrified. Or maybe the other way around? At this point, those spiders have to be a new species.

I don’t own my house though, I rent. It won’t be my problem when I move, unless I take them with me on purpose. Maybe I will? Despite their massive size, they’re kinda cute.

I sigh and lean back in my chair, turning on the TV and putting on a random documentary. It was about spiders. I guess knowing a bit more about my little neighbors wouldn’t hurt, would it?

You realize you should’ve done something about the spiders in your attic before they multiplied, gained intelligence and started a civilization. Recently they started worshipping you as their deity.

[quantumpestcontrol]

Debunking Myths: What Really Works in Pest Control Solutions?

Pests can be a nightmare for homeowners and businesses alike. Whether it’s ants invading your kitchen, termites eating away at your foundation, or rodents scurrying in the attic, finding an effective pest control solution is crucial. However, with so much misinformation circulating, it’s easy to fall for myths that don’t work—or worse, make the problem worse.

In this article, we’ll debunk some common pest control myths and reveal what truly works in keeping pests away for good.

Pest Control Coimbatore

A Clean Home Means No Pests

The Truth

While cleanliness plays a significant role in pest prevention, it’s not a guaranteed solution. Even the cleanest homes can have pest problems. Many pests, such as bed bugs and termites, are not attracted to dirt but rather to warmth, moisture, and food sources.

What Works?

Sealing Entry Points – Pests enter through cracks, gaps, and holes in doors, windows, and walls. Sealing these entry points is key.

Proper Food Storage – Store food in airtight containers and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.

Regular Inspections – Checking for signs of infestations regularly can prevent pests from settling in.

DIY Solutions Are Just as Effective as Professional Pest Control

The Truth

There are plenty of DIY pest control remedies circulating online, from essential oils to vinegar sprays. While some may work for minor issues, they are not a long-term solution for severe infestations.

What Works?

Professional Treatment – Experts use advanced methods and products that are more effective than store-bought sprays.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – This approach combines multiple strategies, including chemical, biological, and preventive methods, for long-term control.

Monitoring and Maintenance – Keeping an eye on pest-prone areas and scheduling routine inspections helps in early detection.

Myth #3: Ultrasonic Pest Repellers Work on All Pests

The Truth

Many companies market ultrasonic pest repellers as a one-size-fits-all solution. However, studies show mixed results, and they are often ineffective in eliminating pests completely.

What Works?

Targeted Treatments – Different pests require different solutions. For example, baits work well for rodents, while insect growth regulators (IGRs) help control roaches.

Professional Assessment – Experts can determine the right treatment based on the type and extent of infestation.

Myth #4: Cats Are the Best Rodent Control

The Truth

While cats may catch an occasional mouse, they are not a foolproof solution for rodent control. Mice and rats reproduce quickly, and a single cat cannot keep up with an infestation.

What Works?

Traps and Baits – Strategically placed traps are effective in capturing rodents.

Sealing Entry Points – Rodents enter homes through small openings. Sealing these gaps is essential.

Professional Rodent Control – If you have an infestation, hiring experts ensures complete removal and prevention.

Pest Control Coimbatore

Pest Control Chemicals Are Always Dangerous

The Truth

Many people believe that all pest control chemicals are toxic and harmful to humans and pets. While some chemicals can be hazardous if misused, modern pest control products are designed to be safe when applied correctly.

What Works?

Eco-Friendly Solutions – Many pest control companies now offer organic and pet-safe treatments.

Professional Application – Experts know how to apply treatments safely and effectively.

Preventive Measures – Reducing moisture, fixing leaks, and eliminating food sources help reduce the need for chemical treatments.

You Only Need Pest Control When You See Pests

The Truth

By the time you see pests, an infestation may already be well-established. Many pests, like termites and bed bugs, hide in walls, furniture, and other hard-to-see areas, causing damage before they become noticeable.

What Works?

Routine Inspections – Regular pest inspections can catch problems before they get out of hand.

Preventive Treatments – Some pests, like termites, require ongoing treatments to prevent infestations.

Monitoring Devices – Using traps, bait stations, and other monitoring tools helps detect early signs of pests.

Killing Pests Solves the Problem

The Truth

Squashing a cockroach or trapping a rat may give you instant satisfaction, but it doesn’t solve the underlying problem. If the source of the infestation isn’t addressed, pests will keep coming back.

What Works?

Eliminating Nesting Sites – Removing clutter, trimming overgrown vegetation, and fixing leaky pipes can reduce pest habitats.

Long-Term Solutions – Professional pest control focuses on removing the source, not just the pests themselves.

Continued Prevention – Keeping up with preventive measures ensures pests don’t return.

Pest Control Coimbatore

Final Thoughts

Misinformation about pest control can lead to ineffective treatments and wasted time. Understanding what truly works is essential to keeping your home or business pest-free.

✅ Key Takeaways: ✔ A clean home doesn’t guarantee a pest-free home—sealing entry points and preventive measures matter. ✔ DIY methods may offer temporary relief, but professional treatments provide long-term solutions. ✔ Ultrasonic pest repellers and cats are not reliable pest control solutions. ✔ Modern pest control chemicals can be safe when used correctly. ✔ Preventive measures and routine inspections are the best way to keep pests away.

If you’re dealing with a persistent pest problem, consider consulting a professional pest control service to get effective, long-term results. Don’t let myths stand in the way of a pest-free home!

[townandcountrysolutions]

Comprehensive Pest Control Solutions in Buffalo and Rochester

Pests can be pesky, but they can also be health risks and damage your properties. Bat, mice, bed bugs, bees-you name it, Town and Country Solutions is here to eliminate the problem. We give you dependable solutions in Buffalo Bat Control, Buffalo Mouse Control, Buffalo Bed Bug Control, and Buffalo Bee Control to get your home or business pest-free.

Dependable Professional Buffalo Bat Control Services

Although bats are very important in the ecosystem, when they invade homes and buildings, they can be a big nuisance. Bats usually roost in attics, chimneys, and walls, leaving guano that can pose health hazards. Our Buffalo Bat Control services include humane removal and exclusion techniques to keep bats out for good. We use industry-approved methods that are safe for both the bats and your home, preventing re-entry with secure sealing solutions.

Effective Buffalo Mouse Control for Homes and Businesses

One of the most prevalent pests in both homes and businesses in Buffalo, mice can easily chew through electrical wiring, contaminate food, and transfer diseases such as salmonella and hantavirus. Our professionals at Buffalo Mouse Control utilize superior trapping and exclusion techniques to guarantee the removal of infestations and the avoidance of future rodent problems, ensuring long-term protection for your property by determining entry points and sealing them effectively.

Buffalo Bed Bug Control: Say Goodbye to Infestations

Bed bugs are notorious for their rapid spread and resilience. These tiny pests hide in mattresses, furniture, and cracks, making them difficult to eliminate without professional help. Our Buffalo Bed Bug Control services include thorough inspections, heat treatments, and safe chemical applications to eradicate bed bugs at every life stage. If you’re waking up with itchy bites or noticing blood spots on your sheets, contact us immediately for a free assessment.

Pest Inspection Rochester: Protect Your Property

Pest inspections in Rochester are regularly carried out to ensure that the infestation doesn't become serious. Town and Country Solutions conducts comprehensive inspections on homes and businesses and identifies risks that require specific treatment plans. If you're looking to purchase a new home or are managing an existing property, a professional pest inspection will save you time, money, and stress.

Bat Control Syracuse: Safe and Humane Solutions

Bats are tricky to get rid of without a professional. Bat Control Syracuse operates on ethical bat removals while being humane about the whole procedure, keeping your home bat free and local bats safe. Our exclusion devices help bats leave without returning, making you feel better without harming the beneficial creature.

Buffalo Bee Control: Removal Services

Bees play an important role in pollination, but once they set up hives in the vicinity of homes or businesses, they may pose a risk to safety. Our Buffalo Bee Control services are all about the safe and humane removal of bee colonies, relocation where possible, in order to maintain their ecological importance. In case you spot an infestation of bees on your property, don't attempt to remove them; our specialists will handle it in a safe and efficient manner.

Why Town and Country Solutions?

Experienced and Licensed Technicians – Our team is trained to handle all types of pest infestations, ensuring effective and long-lasting solutions.

Eco-Friendly Pest Control Methods – We use humane and environmentally responsible techniques to eliminate pests without harming the ecosystem.

Comprehensive Pest Prevention Plans – Beyond removal, we provide prevention strategies to keep pests from returning.

Fast and Reliable Services – We understand the urgency of pest problems and offer prompt response times to address infestations quickly.

Contact Us Today!

If you're dealing with bats, mice, bed bugs, bees, or other pests in Buffalo, Rochester, or Syracuse, Town and Country Solutions is here to help. Our experienced team provides top-notch pest control services tailored to your needs.

Call us today for a free consultation and take back your home from unwanted pests!

[vmproducts]

The Ultimate Solution to Rodent and Pest Control: VM Products’ Advanced Bait Stations and Monitoring Devices

Rodents and pests can pose serious threats to both residential and commercial spaces, making effective pest control solutions a top priority. At VM Products, we specialize in delivering premium-quality pest control tools that cater to professional needs and ensure long-lasting results. Here, we will discuss the benefits of using outdoor mouse bait, large rat bait stations, mouse trap stations, professional mouse bait stations, fly bait stations, and rodent monitoring devices for effective pest management.

Why Choose Outdoor Mouse Bait for Rodent Control?

Outdoor mouse bait is a practical solution to tackle rodent infestations right at their source. It works efficiently by luring mice and eliminating them before they enter your property. The outdoor mouse bait options at VM Products are weather-resistant, ensuring maximum durability and effectiveness in various environmental conditions.

Large Rat Bait Stations for Maximum Coverage

For larger infestations, our large rat bait stations are the ideal choice. These stations are designed to handle larger rodents, such as rats, and provide a secure and tamper-resistant enclosure to protect non-target species and pets. Whether you’re dealing with a warehouse infestation or an outdoor property, large rat bait stations are indispensable for professional pest control efforts.

Mouse Trap Stations: A Compact and Effective Solution

Compact yet powerful, mouse trap stations are perfect for smaller spaces like attics, basements, and kitchens. They are easy to install and work seamlessly with bait to ensure quick and efficient rodent removal. VM Products’ mouse trap stations are built for durability, providing you with a reusable and eco-friendly solution to your pest problems.

Professional Mouse Bait Stations for Advanced Pest Control

Our professional mouse bait stations are engineered for pest control experts who require reliable tools to deliver consistent results. These stations are built with advanced features such as tamper-resistant locking mechanisms, high-capacity bait chambers, and easy maintenance designs, ensuring a seamless pest control experience.

Fly Bait Stations: Targeting Flies with Precision

In addition to rodent solutions, we also offer fly bait stations for effective fly control. These stations are designed to attract and eliminate flies in areas where they pose a nuisance, such as restaurants, farms, and outdoor gatherings. With VM Products’ fly bait stations, you can maintain a hygienic environment effortlessly.

Rodent Monitoring Devices: Stay Ahead of Infestations

Prevention is better than cure, and our rodent monitoring devices help you do just that. These devices provide real-time data on rodent activity, allowing pest control professionals to take proactive measures before infestations escalate. By integrating monitoring devices with bait stations, you can create a comprehensive pest management system that ensures long-term protection.

Why VM Products?

At VM Products, we prioritize quality and innovation. Our range of pest control tools is designed with both effectiveness and safety in mind. Whether you need outdoor mouse bait, large rat bait stations, or rodent monitoring devices, we have the solutions you need to tackle any pest challenge with confidence.

Get Started with VM Products Today!

Don’t let pests take control of your space. Explore our extensive range of bait stations and monitoring devices at VMProducts.com and experience the difference professional-grade pest control tools can make.

[brushfeathers-thoughts]

Storytime!

About two years ago I wanted something relatively simple: new light in my office, and a switch to control it. There was a fan there I don't use. Easy, right?

Haha. Well.

First I looked at it, and was confronted with gross and ancient looking knob-and-tube wiring. Nope, going to need an electrician. Cap it up, grateful that I have plug in lights in the room while the ceiling is out of commission, because I'm not going near that wiring again.

Electrician comes. He's scratching his head, trying to find an overhead access point to this light. Turns out, no way to get to it, as there was a floor built on top of it and no access hatch. But, maybe he can get in through the side-attic area (crawl spaces next to a converted attic second floor.) He's up there for a bit, and then a shout:

'Can you turn the breaker off? QUICKLY? '

Me: Uh... Sure! Which one?

'The big one. The whole house. Shut it off!'

Oh. Oh shit. I run down and slam that bad boy off, then run up to the bedrooms to smell... Burning. One of the old wires had zapped the poor guy as soon as he touched it, and very quickly got VERY hot. It singed a bit of the wood, but no harm done. He was hoping he could replace that wire and be done with it.

Nope. That one wire was the first catastrophic failure of a HOUSE WIDE PROBLEM. Going into the basement, the ceiling was singed along several old wire tubes. Chasing the tubes revealed dangerous singed wire in one room. Then another. Then the next. Then, all of them. At least 75% of the house.

We were literally one mouse brushing a wire from the entire house going up in flames. Thank goodness that mouse was a licensed electrician.

It took a week of him cancelling all other residential night jobs working through every inch of our house. He found ancient wiring spliced, taped, and fixed into "modern" solutions. Ungrounded fixtures. Lack of neutral wires. Fixtures that were grounded, but not safely, or to like... Nothing that would have helped. We had no power for the first day, them he restored power to one room at a time (or at least, one breaker at a time. Our breakers are like a game of where's waldo/wally, you search through each room until you figure out what turned off). Thankfully, it was a mild time of the year.

He was more than generous and hardly charged what that massive job was worth out of absolute kindness, and we haven't had an electrical issue since. We have, however, discovered numerous holes in our house that were patched with anything from tin cans to old rags and moldy pink panther.

But that's a story for another day.

Mark the electrician has been here for five minutes and he’s already said “well that’s…weird” twice from the other room and frankly I’m afraid to ask.

[idigitizellp21]

How To Block Rodent Entry Points In Your Commercial Offices

Rodents in the office are more than just a nuisance. They can chew through wires, contaminate food, and spread diseases. Keeping these critters out of your workspace is essential for maintaining a safe and productive environment. Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to prevent rodents from making your office their new home.

One of the main ways to stop rodents is to identify and block their entry points. Tiny gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and vents can serve as gateways for these pests. By knowing where to look and how to seal these openings, you can significantly reduce the chances of a rodent invasion.

Here's How to Keep Rodents Away From Your Commercial Space:

Identifying Common Entry Points for Rodents

Rodents can squeeze through surprisingly small openings to get into your office. Start by checking around doors and windows. Look for gaps where door frames meet the walls or where windows sit unevenly. Even tiny spaces can be enough for a mouse to slip through. Use weather stripping to seal these areas tightly.

Next, inspect vents and utility lines. Rodents often enter buildings through ducts, pipes, and cables that run into the building. Examine where these utilities enter the walls and check for any spaces around them. If you find gaps, caulk or expandable foam can be used to fill these spaces.

Don’t forget to look at the foundation and roof. Cracks in the foundation and spaces under eaves or in the attic provide easy access for rodents. Use a flashlight to spot these cracks and seal them as soon as possible. Paying attention to these common entry points will help keep your office safe from rodents.

Implementing Effective Sealing Techniques

Once you’ve identified potential entry points, it’s crucial to seal them properly. Start by using caulk to fill small cracks and gaps. It’s flexible and can easily block small openings around windows, doors, and utility lines. For larger gaps, expandable foam works well, expanding to fill spaces and creating an effective barrier.

Weather stripping is another useful tool, especially around doors. Install weather stripping along the bottom and sides of doors to eliminate any gaps rodents could use to enter. This also helps to keep drafts out, improving energy efficiency.

Steel wool is excellent for stuffing into holes because rodents cannot chew through it. Combine it with caulk for a long-lasting seal. For areas prone to frequent rodent activity, consider using metal flashing. This material is durable and can cover larger openings around foundations and eaves. By using these sealing techniques, you can create an effective barrier to keep rodents out of your office.

Maintaining Clean and Clutter-Free Spaces

A clean office environment can significantly reduce the likelihood of a rodent infestation. Rodents are always on the lookout for food and nesting materials, so removing these temptations is crucial. Start by ensuring that all food items are stored in airtight containers. Avoid leaving food out on desks or countertops, as this can attract rodents.

Make it a habit to empty trash bins daily. Use bins with tight-fitting lids to prevent rodents from accessing any scraps or leftovers. Regularly clear out cluttered areas such as storage rooms and supply closets. Rodents love to hide in piles of paper, boxes, and other debris, so keeping these areas organized and tidy can eliminate potential nesting spots.

Encourage employees to keep their workspaces clean. Regular cleaning routines, including vacuuming and wiping down surfaces, can remove crumbs and other food particles. Keeping your office tidy creates an environment that’s less inviting to rodents and helps maintain a healthier workspace overall.

Utilizing Rodent Deterrents and Traps

Sometimes, even with the best preventative measures, rodents can still find their way into your office. Using deterrents and traps can help control and eliminate these pests. Start by placing bait stations or traps in areas where you have noticed rodent activity, such as near entry points or along walls.

Electronic rodent repellers are another option. These devices emit ultrasonic sound waves that are unpleasant for rodents, driving them away from your office. While these repellers can be effective, they should be used in conjunction with other methods for the best results.

Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or cotton balls soaked in vinegar in areas where rodents are likely to enter. These strong scents can deter rodents from coming inside. Additionally, consider using humane traps that allow for the safe capture and release of rodents away from your office. Regularly check and maintain all traps and deterrents to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

Why Choose Ultima Search For Your Pest Control Solution Provider:

We are the pest controllers of choice in cities like Maharashtra, Gujarat and Karnataka for millions of happy and contented customers and our service portfolio is backed up with a pest control product range which is innovative, advanced and available pan India. Household pests such as rats of all kind, cockroaches, termites, mosquitoes, bedbugs, flies and others have no chance against this product range and a professionally conducted service by Ultima Search.

[molepatrols]

Top Strategies for Effective Mouse Control in Overland Park, KS Homes

Although mice are relatively small animals, their influence on homes is quite large. Regardless of whether it is a house or a commercial place, the presence of these mice is terrible since they cause destruction to property and spread of disease. This is why it is important that homeowners in Overland Park, KS have to ensure that they take extra effort to fight off rodent activities. Mouse Control in Overland Park, KS like Mole Petrol usually states that prevention goes hand in hand with elimination and exclusion to get the best outcomes. Below are the best strategies for mouse control in the Overland Park, KS homes.

1. Seal Entry Points

Mice are small, and they are capable of getting through even the smallest holes you have within your home. It is therefore very important that if you want to get rid of these mice from your home to do it properly. Small openings such as a crack on a wall or a space at the base of the door can help these mice enter your home. These gaps can be sealed using caulk, steel wool or weather stripping. It forms the basis of rodent control and exclusion in Overland Park, KS because it does not allow re-infestation to occur.

2. Eliminate Food Sources

One of the main reasons mice invade homes is the easy access to food. Keeping your home clean and free of food debris is essential for mouse control in Overland Park, KS. Store food in airtight containers, wipe down counters regularly, and promptly clean up crumbs or spills. Don’t forget to secure pet food and garbage bins as well.

3. Use Effective Traps

Traps remain a reliable method for capturing and eliminating mice. Depending on your preference, you can choose snap traps, glue traps, or live traps. Strategic placement of traps near walls, in dark corners, and along common pathways can yield better results. For optimal effectiveness, pair trapping efforts with professional services like those offered by Mole Petrol.

4. Maintain a Clutter-Free Home

Cluttered spaces, such as basements, garages, and attics, provide excellent hiding spots for mice. Decluttering and organizing your home can make it less appealing to rodents. Additionally, storing items off the floor and using sealed containers can deter mice from nesting inside your home.

5. Professional Pest Control Services

While DIY methods can help, professional assistance is often necessary to completely eradicate a mouse infestation. Companies like Mole Petrol specialize in both mouse control in Overland Park, KS and rodent control and exclusion in Overland Park, KS. They use advanced techniques to locate infestations, eliminate rodents, and implement exclusion methods to ensure long-term protection.

6. Regular Home Maintenance

Routine inspections of your home’s foundation, roof, and exterior can help identify potential entry points before they become a problem. Combining regular maintenance with professional pest control services can provide comprehensive protection.

Conclusion

Effective mouse control in Overland Park, KS requires a combination of prevention, elimination, and professional expertise. From sealing entry points to hiring pest control specialists like Mole Petrol, homeowners can protect their properties from rodent infestations. By prioritizing rodent control and exclusion in Overland Park, KS, families can ensure their homes remain safe, clean, and rodent-free all year round.

[pestexterminatorsampm]

Should I Call an Exterminator in Seattle, WA? A Homeowner’s Guide to Pest Control

Should I Call an Exterminator in Seattle, WA? A Homeowner’s Guide to Pest Control

When you’re a homeowner or business owner in Seattle, WA, dealing with pests is an inevitable part of property management. Whether it’s ants marching through the kitchen, rodents scurrying through your attic, or the occasional termite sighting, these pests can quickly become a source of stress. But when should you call in a professional exterminator, and how do you know if it’s time to take that step?

Seattle Exterminators, we’ll help you answer the question: Should I call an exterminator in Seattle, WA? By providing insight into when pest problems are serious enough to warrant professional intervention, we’ll guide you on what to look out for, how to handle smaller issues on your own, and why calling an exterminator may be your best bet for peace of mind and a pest-free property.

When to Call an Exterminator: Signs You Need Professional Help

As a homeowner or business owner, it’s important to recognize the difference between a minor pest sighting and a full-blown infestation. Sometimes, it’s clear that you need expert help, but other times, it can be more difficult to tell. Here are a few telltale signs that may indicate it’s time to call an exterminator in Seattle:

1. You’ve Tried DIY Methods, But They Aren’t Working

Sometimes, a simple DIY solution like setting up a few traps or using over-the-counter repellents can solve a minor pest issue. But what if those methods don’t work? In many cases, the pests have already built a colony, or the infestation is larger than you thought.

I remember a Seattle homeowner who called me after trying every DIY trick in the book to get rid of rats in their attic. They had used bait stations, traps, and even ultrasonic repellents, but the rats just kept coming back. After a thorough inspection, we found several entry points that the homeowner had missed, and the infestation was far worse than initially thought. In situations like this, a professional exterminator is your best option to ensure the problem is truly solved.

2. You’re Seeing Multiple Pests in a Short Period of Time

If you’re seeing multiple pests in a short period of time, it’s a clear sign that there may be an underlying infestation. For example, if you spot a single mouse or rat in your kitchen, it’s possible that there are many more hidden behind the walls or in the attic. The same goes for ants, cockroaches, or termites. These pests tend to live in large colonies or nests, meaning one or two sightings are often just the tip of the iceberg.

A few years ago, a Seattle business owner contacted us after seeing a noticeable increase in the number of ants in their office building. What began with one or two ants by the coffee machine turned into hundreds swarming the area. The ants were coming from a crack in the foundation and had created a hidden nest in the walls. In this case, an exterminator was needed to eliminate the colony and prevent further damage.

3. You Notice Structural Damage or Health Risks

If pests are causing damage to your home or business, it’s essential to call an exterminator immediately. Rodents, termites, and carpenter ants, for example, can cause significant damage to the structure of your building. Rodents can chew through electrical wires, insulation, and even wood, while termites can eat through beams and walls. The longer you wait to address the issue, the more costly the repairs will be.

Additionally, pests like cockroaches and rodents carry bacteria that can pose health risks. They can contaminate food, spread disease, and even trigger allergies in some individuals. If you’ve noticed droppings, urine stains, or foul odors in your home or business, it’s time to call in the professionals.

I’ve worked with Seattle homeowners who were unaware that they had termites eating away at the structural wood in their homes until they noticed small holes in their walls. The damage was extensive, and a professional exterminator was needed to stop the problem before it caused even more harm. Avoiding this kind of situation is exactly why timely professional intervention is important.

4. You Can’t Identify the Source of the Infestation

Sometimes, you know there’s a pest problem, but you just can’t figure out where it’s coming from. Rodents, for example, can enter through very small gaps in the foundation, walls, or roof. They may create nests in your attic or crawl spaces, which can be difficult to find without a professional inspection. Without knowing where the infestation is coming from, it’s nearly impossible to fully resolve the problem on your own.

A client once called me after hearing scratching noises in the walls but couldn’t pinpoint the source. After a thorough inspection, I found that the rats had chewed through the insulation in their attic and were living inside the walls. In cases like this, a professional exterminator not only tracks down the source but also prevents future infestations by sealing potential entry points.

5. The Problem Is Affecting Your Quality of Life or Business Operations

When pests start affecting your quality of life or your business operations, it’s time to call in an expert. If you’ve been dealing with sleepless nights due to the sound of rodents in the walls or struggling to maintain a clean and healthy environment because of pests, it’s time to call an exterminator.

For businesses, a pest infestation can lead to poor employee morale, health concerns, and even reputational damage. Customers may be turned off if they notice pests in your place of business, and it could hurt your bottom line. For example, a restaurant in Seattle reached out to me after a health inspection revealed a significant rodent problem in their kitchen. We were able to quickly eradicate the pests and ensure that the business was in compliance with health regulations.

6. You Notice a Sudden Spike in Pest Activity

Sometimes, pests seem to appear overnight. If you’ve been living in your home or running your business for years without pest issues and suddenly find an influx of insects or rodents, that’s a strong indicator that something has changed whether it’s the weather, a new food source, or structural damage. When pest activity spikes suddenly, it’s best to call an exterminator as soon as possible to avoid an infestation from spreading.

For example, after a particularly wet winter in Seattle, I received several calls from homeowners who suddenly found an increase in the number of ants, spiders, and rodents in their homes. The wet conditions had driven pests indoors in search of warmth and food. In these cases, it’s best to call in a professional who can assess the situation and eliminate the pests before they make a permanent home.

The Benefits of Hiring an Exterminator in Seattle, WA

Hiring a professional exterminator in Seattle has several advantages over DIY solutions. Here are just a few reasons why it’s worth calling an expert:

1. Expert Knowledge and Experience

Exterminators are trained professionals who understand the behavior of pests, the best methods to eliminate them, and how to prevent future infestations. Their knowledge of local pests in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest ensures that they use the most effective methods for pest control.

2. Safe and Effective Treatments

Professional exterminators use treatments that are more potent and effective than over-the-counter products. They can also safely apply treatments in hard-to-reach areas without risking harm to you, your family, or your pets. Many exterminators also offer eco-friendly and non-toxic solutions for those concerned about using harsh chemicals.

3. Long-Term Prevention

Exterminators don’t just eliminate pests — they also identify potential problem areas in your home or business and provide preventative measures to keep pests from coming back. Whether it’s sealing gaps in your foundation or offering ongoing monitoring, pest control professionals can give you peace of mind.

4. Cost-Effective

While hiring an exterminator may seem like an upfront expense, it can actually save you money in the long run. A professional can stop small problems from becoming costly infestations that cause significant damage. Additionally, many exterminators offer warranties or guarantees for their work, ensuring that you won’t have to pay for another treatment if the pests return within a certain period.

When Should You Call an Exterminator in Seattle, WA?

If you’ve been wondering, Should I call an exterminator in Seattle, WA? the answer depends on the severity of your pest problem. If you’ve tried DIY solutions, seen multiple pests, noticed damage or health risks, or simply can’t pinpoint the source of the infestation, it’s time to call in a professional. Exterminators have the expertise, tools, and knowledge to handle pest problems quickly and effectively, ensuring that your property remains safe and pest-free.

Don’t wait for the problem to get worse call an exterminator today to protect your home or business. The earlier you act, the easier it will be to resolve the issue and avoid long-term damage.