#beau is afraid is definitely up there for me

[stinkrascal]

i said this last night too but if you havent seen beau is afraid in theaters, PLEASE go watch it. it was so good, definitely very unconventional compared to aster's other films, but really abstract and interesting nevertheless. the whole movie felt like the heightened personification of an anxiety attack. seriously it's been 13+ hours since i saw that movie and i've been thinking about it ever since! it was just really good i really loved it a lot! might actually be my new aster favorite tbh

[carpenterswife]

ALL MY GHOSTS (vii)

series masterlist

- summary: Finally, after a long week of searching, Beau locates the house you’re being kept in. He leads the operation to rescue you, and finds you chained up and beaten. He spends five days in the hospital, by your side, as you recover.

- word count: 2637

- warnings: Domestic abuse, inhumane treatment, hospital setting.

━━━━━━ ✿ ━━━━━━

From the outside, it looked like a normal suburban house. If Beau wasn’t aware of who owned the property, he’d think it was a normal house. But he knew better. He knew there was probably some sort of hellscape inside.

You were in there. He could feel it. And he was going to get you back.

Approaching the front door with Jenny, Cassie and Pop in tow, he tried the handle. Locked, of course. He motioned for the other deputies to go around the back, watching the five men disappear around the corner.

Stepping back, Beau braced himself.

This was it.

He slammed his foot into the door, by the handle, a rush of satisfaction hitting him when the door cracked and swung open. Immediately, he stepped inside, pistol raised and pointed. He took the living room, motioning for the other three to take separate rooms.

“Clear!” Jenny called from the dining room.

“Clear here!” Pop reported from the first floor bathroom.

There was a beat of silence. “Guys.” Cassie called out. “Come check this out.”

Beau didn’t waste any time. He rushed out of the living room and into the kitchen, around the kitchen island to where Cassie was crouched down. Jenny and Pop rushed in behind him.

Her expression was grim as she looked over her shoulder. “Blood.”

Heart sinking, Beau crouched beside him, gently touching the small pools of liquid. It stained his fingertips bright red. Definitely blood. He stood, scanning the kitchen, eyes landing on food preparations on the counter. “Someone was cooking.”

“Y’think it was her?” Jenny stepped up beside Beau, eyeing the knives and pans still laid out on the counter. They were in a clutter, someone had been dragged away while they were in the midst of cooking.

Sharp, he nodded. “She’s here.” He stepped back. Without another word, he exited the kitchen. They followed, as he took the stairs, two at a time, his knuckles around around his handgun.

There were three doors upstairs.

Two looked normal.

One had five locks.

His gut churned. He headed for that one, trying the handle, cursing when it clicked. He stepped back and sent his foot into it, grunting at the resistance. “Jenny.”

Nodding, Jenny came up beside him. On a countdown, they slammed their feet into the door at the same time. Once. Twice. Three times. The door flew open. Raising his gun high, Beau lead the way into the dark room.

A bed. A closet.

And you. Chained to the wall like an animal. Covered in bruises and blood, cowering against the wall.

“Y/N.” He breathed in relief. Holstering his pistol, he took a few large steps over to you, kneeling down on the floor in front of you. “Y/N, honey, look at me.” He put his hand gently on your knee, tapping you softly. You tensed, but didn’t flinch. “It’s me. It’s Beau.”

Your head lifted at the name, a spark of hesitation in your eyes. You stared at him, clearly recognising him, but too afraid to move.

He flashed a smile, squeezing your knee. “See? I’ve got you. It’s me. I’ve got you now, darlin’.” He didn’t know if what he was feeling was relief or rage. He was over the fucking moon you were in front of him, alive. But the bruises on your skin made his teeth grind together, made him want to punch a hole through the wall.

He was going to kill Jack.

Going to beat him to a pulp and take great pleasure in watching his face bleed.

“Beau.” Your arms came around him, desperate. Beau caught you, tugging you to his chest, cradling your head against his firm shoulder. You held onto him like he was your lifeline. Like he was buoy in an ocean; the only thing keeping you afloat and breathing and alive. You began to cry, overwhelmed with the emotions slamming into you, hiding your face in his shoulder.

His heart squeezed tightly. He cradled you to his body, holding on tightly, like you’d disappear if he let go even for a second. “I got you.” He whispered. “I got you, baby. You’re safe. You’re okay. It’s over. I got you.” He soothed his hand over your hair and down your back, until his hand cupped your hip and dragged you even closer to him. “He ain’t ever gon’ touch you again. I got you. Imma protect you.”

You could only sob, fisting the back of his denim jacket.

“You’re safe, baby.” He pressed his lips to your forehead, kissing your skin tenderly. “I ain’t ever letting’ you get hurt again. I got you.”

Eventually, your sobs quietened, the shoulder of his jacket damp and salty, and you pulled back, but your hands remained clutched onto his sleeve. “My— my ankle.” You whimpered. “It’s chained.”

He let you go, unable to go far with you clinging to his sleeve like a young child, reaching for the chain around your ankle and getting it an experimental tug. His rage was increasing with every second he spent looking at you like this. “Okay, honey, we’ll getcha’ outta here.” He assured you softly, smiling, squeezing your calf gently. “Jenny, help me out here.”

Your eyes lifted to Jenny, reaching for her hand as she passed you. She took your hand and squeezed, using her other to search her pockets for anything to release the chains.

After a few endless minutes, Beau released you from the chain, freeing you. His hands were latched onto your leg gently, as he worked you out of the loosened chain. The moment your foot slipped free, you threw yourself at him.

He grunted in surprise, getting knocked off his balance. One hand landed on the ground to steady himself, the other circled your waist, holding you to him. He chuckled quietly, warmth and love blossoming in his chest like a flower in spring. “I got you.” He whispered. You were practically on top of him, clinging onto him desperately. “Let’s get y’outta here. C’mon, hon, let’s get you home.”

Beau just about managed to dislodge you from him, but you gripped onto his arm tightly. He exchanged a look with Jenny and Cassie, who had, too, noticed the fact you refused to let go of him.

“Call the paramedics.” He told Jenny, who nodded and retrieved her phone from her pocket. Beau guided you out of the room, down the stairs. “Where is he?” He asked you softly, his words gentle. “Is he here?”

Your head shook. “He left an hour ago.” He nodded at your whispered words. His hand slipped from the small of your back to your hip, keeping you safe and secure against his side. “Did you— was it— was it you that arrested him?”

Solemn, he nodded. “Yeah, honey, it was us.” He spoke gently, as to not upset you, leading you outside of the house. You took your first breath of proper fresh air in a week. “We couldn’t hold him. I’m so sorry.”

“No.” You whispered. “Don’t. Thank you.”

Beau just held you until the paramedics arrived.

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“She hasn’t said a word since you brought her in, Sheriff.” Your doctor was a kind man; trying his best to snap you back into the real world. But, apparently, the moment you hit the hospital bed, you dissociated. 12 hours later, you were still out of it. “You can try. But, I’m sorry, it’s likely she won’t speak to you.”

Beau just nodded, and heeding his warnings, stepped into your hospital room.

The bruises were horrible and ugly. Dark purples and blacks, green and yellows. Beau barely contained his rage at the sight of you, so beaten and broken. Bandages wrapped around the worst of the wounds.

And your eyes.

Beau had never seen you so… far away.

He’d helped you through plenty of panic attacks. Held you as you gasped for air, telling him through ragged breaths that your lungs were certainly collapsing.

But, right now, you were just vacant. If he didn’t know better, he’d say your eyes looked dead.

Still, he moved forwards, sitting on the uncomfortable chair beside your equally as uncomfortable bed. “Hey.” He whispered, keeping his voice soothing. He reached out, gentle, taking your hand within both of his. “Doc said you’re not speakin’.”

Your head turned to him. Okay. That was good. You were reactive. You were aware. Though your expression was close to emotionless, at least you could hear him, at least you were reacting to your environment.

He smiled, squeezing your hand, carefully minding the IV drips in the back of your hands. “You doin’ a’right?” No response. He wet his lips, and took it in his stride. “We’re lookin’ for Jack. We’ll find ‘im in no time.” He assured you, stroking his thumb across your bruised knuckles.

All he got was a slight squeeze of your fingers on his hand.

But it gave him hope.

“You’re safe now, hon.” He whispered, lifting his hand to his lips. He flashed you a lopsided smile, gently kissing the back of your palm. “I promise you. You’re safe”

You rolled onto your side to face him, fingers wrapping around his palm. You held on so tight, your nails dug onto his calloused skin. Beau didn’t mind; he just stroked your skin with his thumb gently. Your eyes closed for the first time in 3 days.

He smiled brightly.

It made him feel good. To know just sitting at your side was enough to make you feel so safe. He’d sleep here every damn night if it meant you could rest.

“Thank you.” You whispered, knees sliding up and pressing to your chest.

Beau deflated with relief and joy. “You’re welcome, baby.” He murmured, soft. “Jus’ get some rest, hm? I’ll be right here, all night. Promise.”

He stuck to his word, falling asleep with his head on the edge of your bed, folded over on his chair. He woke up the next morning, his entire back aching — but, it was worth it.

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“The rest of his properties came out empty.” Jenny reported to him, when he returned to the station that afternoon. He sat behind his desk, one hand up his shirt, massaging his lower neck, arm bent awkwardly. Jenny gave him a strange look, but continued. “Wherever he is, he’s well hidden. We’ve got officers posted at each of his properties, in case he backtracks.”

Beau nodded, and then grunted in pain, shifting uncomfortably, trying to find a position that didn’t cause an uncomfortable ache in his back. Despite the pain, he didn’t regret staying at the hospital with you one bit.

He’d woken up to you hugging his arm to your chest, staring at him with a smile. He’d stayed and spoke softly to you, even if you didn’t reply, until he was removed so they could run some tests on you.

Jenny’s eyes narrowed in suspicion. “Seriously, what is wrong with you?” She dropped her files onto his desk, a mixture of concerned and amused. “You in pain?”

He groaned, finally showing his discomfort, nodding. “Fell asleep in the hospital las’ night.” He took a sip of his coffee at just the memory of his horrible night of sleep. “Slept funny. My backs gone stiff.”

Her expression diminished a bit at the mention of the hospital. Jenny nodded, solemn. “Visited her?”

Beau hesitated, eyes flicking up to Jenny. “Yeah.” He grunted in confirmation, shifting on his chair. “She’s doin’ better. Recoverin’ fast.”

The blonde nodded, expression softer than it had been mere seconds ago. “That’s good.” Beau hummed quietly in agreement. Jenny remained staring at him. “She say anything to you?”

“Not really.” He muttered. His eyes turned away from Jenny, hiding his emotion, fiddling with the corner of one of his files. “Just a thank you.”

Jenny sighed. Her hand landed on Beau’s arm, comfortingly squeezing the muscles “She’ll get there.” She tried her best to assure Beau; she always did. “She’ll get better, you know she will.”

“Yeah.” Beau murmured, his smile strained. He didn’t quite find it in him to believe her. “Let’s just catch the fucker.”

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taglist: @yvonneeeee @deans-spinster-witch @fanfic-n-tabulous @dwonfilm @foxyjwls007 @just-levyy @i-love-ptv @hobby27

[haveyouseenthishorrormovie]

Not a poll request (so don't worry if you don't want to answer on the blog) but - could we get each of the mods' top 10 horror movies? (: I'd be so interested in hearing them!

Long post!

Mod Z:

*long sigh* *opens letterboxd*

K-12 (2019)

NOTE: Yk what imma just leave this here

2. Beau is Afraid (2023)

NOTE: a masterpiece i probably won’t rewatch for a long time but since i’m an ari aster truther it deserved this spot

3. Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)

NOTE: Yes

4. The Crow (1994)

NOTE: Awesome ass movie. Awesome ass soundtrack. An absolute classic. I have the graphic novel it was based on and it’s one of the best things I have in my library

5. Carrie (1976)

NOTE: Stephen King’s the best at writing real characters <3

6. The Craft (1996)

NOTE: As a wicca myself, accurately depicted teen witches are my jam and this film did the best job at it

7. Bodies Bodies Bodies (2022)

NOTE: The only reason this isn’t in the top 5 is because i haven’t seen it in a while. If u had asked me in early 2023 i would’ve put this in second place for sure

8. Cam (2017)

NOTE: So underrated. Go watch this on Netflix now while u don’t know anything about it

9. Frankenweenie/Nightmare before Christmas/Edward Scissorhands

NOTE: CHILDHOOD (lumping them together cuz i couldn’t decide which tim burton film to add)

10. Smile (2022)

NOTE: okay wait this scared me shitless at the theatre and i just convinced myself this movie was bad to stop myself freaking out but this is a genuinely good and scary movie i’ve made up my mind

These are subject to change and Invisible Man (2020) definitely deserves an honorable mention but I haven’t seen it in a while to check if it still holds up

----

Mod L:

The Thing (1982)

Absolute masterpiece. Perfect marriage of cast, visuals, music, and script. They (audiences in 1982) hated Jesus (John Carpenter) because he told them the truth.

2. Ravenous (1999)

I love social horror more than life itself, and this is a pitch-perfect example. I recommend Atun-Shei Films' Overanalyzing Ravenous, if you haven't seen it yet.

3. Ju-on: The Grudge (2002)

See above re: social horror. I never stop thinking about how this series was inspired by rising incidents of domestic violence in Japan - how the contagion of violence in the home spreads to anyone who comes in contact with it.

4. Demon (2015)

This would pair amazingly well with my next pick, which is:

5. La Llorona (2019)

To quote a friend of mine after we watched Demon, "there is no society without memory."

6. Black Christmas (1976)

Truly ahead of its time as a slasher, as well as in its politics. Ladies, never date a Peter, and DON'T trust the Toronto Police.

7. The Devils (1971)

Nobody was doing it like Ken Russell, and nobody ever will again.

8. The Changeling (1980)

This movie understands the greatest horror of all: Joseph Kennedy Sr.

9. Us (2019)

My favourite Peele to date, no I will not be budged on this point.

10. Peeping Tom (1960)

An extremely prescient film about the male gaze and the medium of film.

(Mod Sus releases their own once they get the braincells rubbing for more than 5 movies)

[mediocrecowboyhat]

Set in sand - Chapter 14

We mark the year 1934 and a peculiar journal falls into your hands. It's telling the tale of an outlaw and the downfall of a gang. Some pages are torn and others are downright unreadable, but nevertheless, you are still able to make out some parts of the tragic story.

With the help of a certain time traveler friend of yours, will you be able to save the author of the journal or will you be the cause for his demise?

Previous chapter - Next chapter

Word count: 3.8k

TW: end-game spoilers will be mentioned very early on in the story, 18+ MDNI, sexual themes, violence, gore, death, misogynistic themes (anything that happens in the game as well), she/her pronouns, this chapter has an animal dying in it in case you're a bit sensitive to that

Two weeks have passed now since the incident with the O'Driscolls and things have gone back to how they used to be. Except for your friendship with Arthur that is. It's not a too noticeable change, but there has definitely been a shift in the dynamic between the two of you.

You can feel it in the fleeing, yet lingering touches. How his knuckles would brush over yours when he passes you or how the tips of his fingers would apply a soft pressure on your skin, leaving the spot feeling as if it's on fire afterwards.

You can see it in his blue orbs when they'd meet yours over the camp fire. How you'd lock eyes with each other while standing on opposite sides of camp or how his gaze searches for yours whenever you're close by.

All these small acts leave a warm sensation in your chest that has you grinning like an idiot. At times you'd feel like an absolute buffoon, because he only has to say one word to you and you'd be floating on clouds.

"Jesus, get a room.", Sadie would snarl annoyingly, but at the same time jokingly, whenever she catches you smile the silliest of smiles.

Even now you can't go one day without talking to the outlaw. You cross the camp to walk over to the pier where he's sitting at and scribbling away in his journal. You can't help but wonder what he's writing in there or perhaps it's another drawing. Is it about you perhaps?

"Look who's all better.", you call out to him and lean against one of the posts keeping the wooden structure standing. "I suppose I can't talk you into resting for another week."

Arthur closes the journal and takes his hat off, placing it in his lap. His calloused hands fidget with it, fingers tracing over the rim.

"Nah, can't do. I got work to do, stealin' family jewels and such.", he answers with his lips curled up into a half smile.

"Of course you do." Your gaze wanders over to the river. The large body of water is a constant reminder of the decision you made a while ago.

For a short time you were worried that you might regret chucking Francis' device away, but all you feel is relief. Relief and content. There is no responsibility looming over you and with throwing away your return ticket, you have simultaneously gotten rid of your anxiety.

It's refreshing and light as if you had slid a heavy winter coat off your shoulders to welcome the warmth of an upcoming spring with open arms. Or maybe you're just full of shit and have been exaggerating everything this entire time.

"I will actually also be busy today, I'll have you know.", you say and Arthur raises his eyebrows in fake bewilderment.

"Really now? And here I was, afraid that I might have put you out of a job with my recovery.", he says, earning a soft chuckle from you.

"I saw Beau the other day and he invited me for a small chat this afternoon. You're very welcome to join me if you're interested."

He shakes his head and waves it off. "No, I think I'll pass."

That doesn't come as a surprise to you considering how it went last time with the young Gray and his (not so secret) secret love affair. Arthur probably wants to avoid sneaking around and delivering letters again and you don't blame him for that.

"I'll see you this evening then.", you say and he stands up with a low grunt.

The bullet wound must still hurt at least a little bit. He does his very best to hide it, but you can see it in the small things. It's the details, the little cracks and nooks where the truth leaks out, but you also know that he'd rather get his other shoulder shot at as well than to admit it.

Arthur stands before you, his hand twitching, longing for yours. "Try to stay out of trouble."

"I always do.", you respond with a knowing smirk. As much as you actually try to stay out of it, it somehow still finds you as if it's naturally drawn to you.

Just as you are a natural at getting out of it unscathed. Most of the time at least. He returns your smile and nods as he places his signature cowboy hat back on his head. "Sure."

With that you walk over to the hitching posts and get Penthesilea ready for the small trip. You can't wait to ride out with her again. It's been an awfully long time with you not sitting in a saddle.

She greets you cheerfully and you make your way towards the Gray manor. It's a beautiful day today with the sun being so high up and the birds chirping away. Much to your relief, the roads seem to be pretty empty as well as there are no other travellers crossing your path.

Even the Gray residency shows a lack of activity, but you assume that it must be Sean's and Arthur's doing. The sight of the burned down tobacco fields fills you with a grim feeling.

Yes, it is quite the jab against the supposedly rich family, but now the workers are out of jobs as well. You can't imagine that Tavish Gray, the head of the family, would keep them around when there's no use of them anymore.

A sigh escapes your lips as you approach the manor from the front where only one guard is posted this time. It's a surprisingly young lad who can't be a day older than 18. You had no idea that Mr. Gray even employs guards this young.

"I'm here to visit Beau.", you tell him and he studies you through narrowed eyes. He squares up his shoulders as he approaches you slowly, taking in your appearance.

You can't tell where this sudden hostility is coming from or perhaps he's just being too eager. He might be the type who'd want to prove himself to his boss and colleagues, especially at that age.

"Who are you?", he asks in a rather demanding tone and you stop yourself from rolling your eyes.

There was a time where someone like him, holding a rifle like that, would have intimidated you, but not anymore. By now you know that you'd outsling him without a doubt. With a polite smile on your face, you give him your name and hope that Beau has mentioned you and your meet-up to the security. 

"You can find him at the stables."

As you signal Penthesilea to move, the young man lifts his hand and you raise your eyebrow in confusion.

What is it now?

"I need you to leave your horse over there.", he tells you, pointing at the opposite direction and you give him a puzzled look.

"Why?"

Obviously he isn't too fond of your questioning as his nostrils flare up in irritation. "We have some new security measures. Just do as I say, Lady."

His rude tone rubs you the wrong way and as much as you'd love to stay here and argue with him, you know that it would be foolish. You shouldn't get on either family's bad side. Not while Dutch and the others are trying to stay on good terms while exploiting them.

So you do as instructed and leave your Andalusian at the spot he pointed at and go towards the stables on foot. You still remember the layout of the property from your last visit, but it's not too complicated anyways.

After reaching the stables, you spot a familiar mop of brown hair and you lean with both arms against the gate. The wood creaks under your weight and Beau turns around.

His entire face lights up as his eyes fall on you and he stretches out his arms. "You're here!" Then he peeks over your shoulder as if he's searching for something. "I assume our friend didn't want to join us?"

"No, he's busy.", you lie and Beau turns his attention back to the horse he was brushing before your interruption.

"I just have to finish up some things 'round here if you don't mind.", he tells you over his shoulder which makes you shake your head.

"Take your time." You eyes scan the area to make sure no one is eavesdropping. "Listen, what is it with that extra security measure here? The guard at the front entrance was acting like a dick."

At that Beau shrugs. "Hell if I know. My family doesn't tell me what's goin' on most of the time and it's not any different now."

You had hoped to get a better answer from him, but it still doesn't surprise you.

"Must be the tobacco fields.", you mutter to yourself.

It would only make sense to be more cautious after that incident, but then why would they only post one guard? And such an inexperienced one like him as well? The more you think about it, the less sense it makes, but maybe you're just overthinking it.

After all they made Dutch, Bill and Arthur deputies on a drunk whim. That alone tells you that they don't tend to think things through.

"How are things with you and you know who?", you ask, leaving Penelope's name unspoken intentionally.

Everyone and their grandma might already know about the two young lovers, but you still want to at least try to keep it a secret. The sigh Beau let's out doesn't sound too good.

"It's not goin' too well at all after my cousins saw me at the rally.", he answers and the corners of your mouth drop a little.

You can't say that you didn't expect it, but it's nevertheless, sad news. You really like the couple. "I'm sorry to hear that."

"It's nothin' new. I guess."

Then you hear voices approaching and you exchange wide eyed looks with the young Gray.

Quiet now.

You can't be dropping the Braithwaite woman's name with people around. It doesn't matter whether they're part of the family or ordinary workers. By the sound of it, it looks to be the latter.

"I'm tellin' ya! They all picked up their guns and rode off to town.", one of them says with the raspiness of a dedicated chainsmoker.

The other sounds way smoother in comparison. "But why? Do ya think they'll finally wage war against that damned family?"

All your attention is now set on that conversation. It wouldn't be too big of a twist if the Grays decided to shoot up the Braithwaite manor after all the mischief the gang has caused for them.

"No, no. They said they was meetin' some Yankees at the Sheriff's. To settle a score, they said."

His answer makes your heart drop and you look at Beau with a mortified expression. There are only so many Yankees in this area they could be talking about and you'd bet all your money that they mean yours.

That's when you recall Sean telling you earlier today that he'd go to Rhodes together with Bill and Micah. Beau steps closer to you and you push yourself off the gate.

"I need to leave. Now.", you say, urgency and panic lacing your voice and you turn your head towards where you had left Penthesilea.

She's on the whole other side of the property, but if you run faat enough you could still make it to the others in time. Suddenly reigns are being shoved into your hand, ripping you out of your thoughts.

"Take one of the horses.", Beau says and you give him a grateful look.

Words can't describe your gratitude, but you don't have the time to attempt it anyways. With a nod in his direction, you mount the horse he has given you and signal it to carry you to town at full speed.

Buildings appear in the distance as you race over fields and jump over fences, not even bothering to follow the road like you usually do. Soon you spot the group walking along the main street and notice that it's four of them instead of three.

Arthur is in the back, clearly engrossed in a heated discussion with the others with the way he gestures around with his arms. Of course that moron is here as well. It seems as if he always manages to get the front row seat to whatever danger is presenting itself at the moment.

"Boys!", you yell at the top of your lungs and they stop in their tracks to look at you. You're almost right by them now. "Go back! Run! They know that-"

You don't get to finish your sentence as the loud bang of a gun cuts through the air, blowing your horse's head clean off. Warm blood splatters over your face and clothes and you come crashing down.

The fall knocks all the air out of your lungs and you gasp like a fish on land, trying to breathe. As the men take cover behind some crates, you realize that one of your legs is stuck under the horse and you grunt and pant while trying to lift the heavy body.

A bullet lands awfully close to the ground next to you and you let out a terrified yelp. Then suddenly the weight on your leg vanishes as you watch Arthur and Sean hoist the animal off you. Just enough for you to get out.

Quickly you crawl to one of the crates to hide behind as well and take out your Schofield. It's a near damn miracle that you didn't lose this weapon during the fall and you cling onto it so tight that the whites on your knuckles are showing.

By the looks of it, it seems like the entire damn Gray family is out to get you.

"How'd you know it was a set-up?", Bill yells over the gunshots out to you.

"I was at the manor and overheard the workers mentioning it!", you scream back and duck as the top of the crate explodes into hundreds of splinters.

Luckily none of them hit you and you peek around the corner to aim your weapon. One man falls down on his knees after you pull the trigger and you quickly take cover again.

The boys are talking about something along the lines of changing positions, but you can't see how you'd do that. With all these bullets raining down on you, you're scared to even blink.

Micah yells something about retreating to the gunsmith's and you plan a mental route in your mind. If you take the way behind the buildings then you should be fine. Unfortunately just as you're about to start moving, hands grab you from behind and violently yank you back.

With a short cut scream you stumble backwards, but catch your balance in time to avoid hitting the ground. Two men stand before you with large hunting knives  and without hesitation you point the barrel of your Schofield at them and fire two shots.

One goes down immediately, meanwhile the other let's out a guttural cry as he falls to his knees, gripping his thigh. Before you could finish him off, your revolver is being knocked out of your hands and you're being dragged to the Sheriff's office.

No matter how much you kick, punch and fight back, the person's grip on you is like iron. Shortly after you go through the door, a group of three follow you closely behind. It's two men, struggling to hold Bill in place who is putting as much effort into breaking free as you.

"Sheriff Gray! You need to get a hold on this town! It's going to hell!", you hear Micah shout from outside.

A quick look at Leigh Gray tells you all you need to know. Instead of admitting his unavoidable defeat, his nostrils flare up in outrage. "Who do you think you are? A bunch of two-bit thugs from God knows where? You're so dumb to think that we don't know what you've been doin'!"

Micah doesn't sound too fazed when he answers. "Come out, Sheriff! It's over!"

This is the first time ever that you're actually glad to have Micah here with his unwavering confidence and never ending bloodlust. These people here stand no chance against that maniac.

"We put down far worse than you! A hundred times over! This is the Gray's town. Always has been, always will be!"

"The only Gray's left I see 'round here, is you!", the outlaw argues and the Sheriff let's out a huff.

"You want us to come out? We'll come out!" With that they kick open the door and one of the men pushes Bill out.

A smack of the lips can be heard from Arthur. "Oh, Bill!", he says rather annoyed.

His entire attitude shifts the moment they force you through the door though. A pair of blue orbs are focused on you, but all you can think about is the feeling of cold metal on your temple. A shotgun is being pointed at you and mental images of your brain out on the floor pass by your inner eye.

"Guns on the ground now! All three of you!", one of the men demands harshly.

"Don't do it!", Bill insists and you nod approvingly. If the three of them surrender now, then you're all fucked.

"You know we can't do that. You put the gun down Sheriff!" Arthur's voice sounds strained from anger.

The barrel is being pushed closer against your temple, but you feel the Sheriff tremble behind you. "I'll blow her brains out!"

That was the wrong move to make. Next thing you know the man falls back as a bullet enters his scull and he almost drags you down with him. After Arthur, Micah and Sean deal with the rest, you stumble down the stairs and feel a pair of strong arms wrap around your body.

"Are you hurt anywhere?", the outlaw asks you and his eyes scan your face and figure for any injuries.

You manage a shake of your head. "No, this isn't my blood."

Getting it out of your hair and clothes is going to be a piece of work once it dries up which it's already starting to do.

"This really went well. Right, lads?", Sean comments, his words oozing with sarcasm and Bill throws his hands up in the air.

"How the hell was I supposed to know?" His voice comes out harsh and defensive and Arthur glares daggers at him as he let's go of you. Immediately, you start missing the closeness.

"Oh let me guess!", the outlaw shouts, getting louder and louder with each word. "They set us up once before, they didn't like us, we destroyed their farm. Should I go on?"

Micah comes strolling over with his arms stretched out. "Go easy on him, Morgan. He was out tryin' to find a lead, same as you, same as Hosea. All you do is complain when things don't work out. Except when it's your own goddamn fault."

"You don't know what you're talkin' about.", Arthur snarls through gritted teeth. "You don't give a damn 'bout nobody but yourself!"

The other man let's out a dry laugh and raises his hands. "Oh, you act so high and mighty, but you're no better than the rest of us. I've ridden with you boys close to what? Six months now? And all you've ever done was complain. You can fight, but you can't think."

"And you can't do either." Arthur briefly touches your shoulder, motioning to where his horse is hitched and your groups starts walking.

Even though you don't need the help, he still lends you a hand when you mount his horse. He agrees to give you a ride to the Gray residency to pick up Penthesilea while the others return back to camp.

Somehow you manage to convince him to wait at the edge of the property and let you sneak in alone. If you come riding in now, looking like someone spilled a bucket of blood over you, you will only alarm the young guard at the entrance.

He already isn't particularly fond of you and you don't expect him to just let you get to your horse. It doesn't take too long though and you manage to stay undetected. You feel guilty for getting the horse Beau let you borrow killed, but perhaps he will understand once you explain the situation to him.

If you will ever get the chance to do so. With the ambush in town, there is nothing that speaks in favor for staying here. In fact, after shooting up and successfully killing the entire town the last thing you should do is linger.

Arthur and you make your way back as fast as possible, expecting everyone to be running around and packing, but you're being met with an entirely different sight. A small group of people is gathered around Dutch's tent and it looks serious.

You exchange puzzled looks with Arthur before you walk over to see what exactly is going on. Abgail's eyes are red and puffy and panic is written all over her features.

"Where's my goddamn son?", the woman yells, rage and fear lacing her voice. "Where is he? Where's my son? They took him, didn't they? They took my son."

"Who?", you ask and Hosea walks up to you.

He points at something behind him. "We think the Braithwaite woman took him. That Kieran saw a couple of fellers."

Your heart drops after hearing that. Turns out both families decided to strike at the same time.

"Where's my son?", Abigail chimes in again. "If anythin'- where is my son, Dutch Van Der Linde?"

Dutch places his hand on her shoulder and looks her deep into the eyes. "We will find him. We will bring him back to you and we will kill any fool who had the temerity to touch one hair on that boy's head. Abigail, you have my word."

In the corner of your eyes you spot John walking up to your group. His face is strained and his entire body is tense. You don't remember the last time you have seen him like that. If you ever even have.

"Just get me back my son.", Abigail says and the men start walking towards the horses.

"I will get that boy back, so help me God!"

Your eyes are fixed on the worried mother and you put your hand on her back. You'd have offered her a hug too if you weren't covered in blood.

In the distance you see the rest of the men in camp approaching and Bill calls out. "Dutch, we just heard what happened with Jack. So you need extra guns?"

As the men ride off, you walk Abigail to her tent and sit down with her.

"Jack is going to be fine. They will bring him back to you by the end of the day, you'll see.", you say in a soothing tone and rub circles on her back.

These animals will regret this. You're sure of it.

Taglist: @shackspossum @heloixe @abducted-cowz

[raspberryconverse]

We have a new beau, everyone!

I went on a date last night with a lovely gentleman and I am over the moon about it.

So we both regularly go to the local poly group and are both members of a board game discord server started by one of the members. I've been talking a lot about house hunting and when I told everybody I found a house (more on that later), he DM'd me and offered advice if I needed it. I told him we just bought ours 2.5 years ago, so I'm good and thanked him.

We started chatting a little bit more that night and he asked if I was going to cocktails the next night. We ended up chatting more there and there definitely was a connection. When I got home, there was another DM saying that he enjoyed talking to me and he wanted to know if we could switch to texting. I responded right away with my number.

He said he was enjoying getting to know me and wanted to take me out for a celebratory or sympathetic drink, depending on whether my offer was accepted on the house. It was, so it was celebratory. And confirmed that it was a date too.

While his wife realized at some point she was definitely poly, he hadn't really explored that at all. In fact, this was his 1st first date in 10 years. I felt very honored. I mean, 10 years in a one sided poly relationship and I'm the one he finally decided to ask out? Flattering AF.

We texted every day for the rest of the week. Sometimes a little flirty, sometimes just venting about the shit show that is my life. And he wasn't put off by it at all.

I've been going through a lot lately with the divorce and selling the house. I purposely didn't unpause my dating apps, despite Beau #4 breaking things off, Lady #2 having to step aside to focus on her health and dumping Beau #1. I had been feeling saturated, especially with FWB #2 and The Tree (I'm pretty sure The Tree and I are actually more than just friends, but he hasn't figured it out yet). But then all the breakups happened and I was left alone with some FWBs, one I wanted a romantic relationship with and one I didn't. It was fine considering everything that was going on, but I just didn't feel like putting myself out there was a good idea. As much as I longed for a more serious relationship, I knew it wasn't the time to seek that out. I did decide that if I met someone and it happened organically, I wouldn't stop it, but I definitely wasn't feeling like it was a good time to be all, "I'm getting divorced and my life is a mess. Wanna go on a date?"

But Beau #6 didn't see it as a problem. "Everybody is dealing with shit, sometimes more and sometimes less. It doesn't make you unworthy or untouchable or anything." After debacle with Beau #4, I'm always afraid they're going to see the mess that is me and go running the other way. But he asked me out, in spite of all the it. And he's been a good listener as I've ranted, which is something unexpected when you're just getting to know someone.

We ended up going to a local brewery and just chatted. The conversation flowed. He's funny and sweet and a good listener. We talked about the divorce and I teared up a little, so he offered me a hug and said we didn't have to talk about it. It was a really nice, long hug. I was already feeling really good about this, but that definitely confirmed the chemistry was there.

As the night went on, we moved from standing at a tall table without chairs to sitting at a lower one to some long communal tables. The brewery slowly cleared out and before they called last call, he asked if I'd like to kiss.

"Now?" he asked. "Or maybe before we leave?" "Either one is fine with me." "How about both?" He leaned across the table and we shared a really amazing kiss. We just couldn't stop. He's a really good kisser.

Eventually we realized it was close to closing time and we should get going. We held hands as we walked out, smiling at each other. He offered to walk me to my car, which was actually one spot away from mine. We stood between our cars and kissed. We just kissed and kissed and kissed.

"Do we have to go home?" I asked. It was getting really cold, but I honestly didn't care and he didn't seem to either. He explored my body, running his hands up and down my sides and eventually grabbing my ass. "You feel really good," he commented.

The kissing continued for a bit. "Ok, one more," he said. But it was still a long one. Kissing just opened the floodgates and it was hard to put a stop to it. Eventually we finally stopped, said goodnight and got in our separate cars.

Me, being the slut that I am, would have loved to have taken him home with me. But I knew this was a very new experience for him and I didn't want to push him further than he was ready. I mentioned this when I got home and he agreed he definitely wasn't ready for that. I love fucking on the first date, but I know that's not everyone's thing. I'm also a very sexual person who doesn't put sex on a pedestal. It's a fun thing to do. It doesn't have to be special. It can be fun and just a nice way to enjoy a person, no matter what level you're on. But as someone who hasn't been on a date with anyone other than his wife for 10 years, I know that's a big step.

We already have another date set for Friday. And my birthday is a week later. I'm hoping he'll come to my party too. It sounded like he was planning on it, so here's hoping.

I like where this is going. I have a really good feeling about it. And I am just smitten and over the moon about it. I can't wait to see how this develops.

[jackinalex]

I feel this last chapter was a lot to take in, for me at least, so I felt I needed to gather my thoughts. First, Caitlin is a fucking monster all she seems to care about is her image is she even upset about losing Jack? Does she care or is she just concerned about looking like a loser for being cheated on? Second, I loved how Alex went from being afraid to get his hopes up to basking in the glow of their love not wanting to come done from the high. It was super cute how Alex confessed his love to Jack the same way he did at the beginning and the end. The callback to the purple rain scene was everything. I still wish to know what Jack was hoping from that night I feel like it has been brought up again or maybe I just missed it. Lastly, the way Zack said Jack would kick Beau’s ass and the way Jack didn’t give a fuck about Caitlin’s threat was so badass. I didn’t know Jack had it in him pretty hot.

It was definitely a rollercoaster for me to write! Caitlin sucks to the highest degree and I won't lie, it did feel good for Jack to stick it to her. This chapter was certainly alllll about the callbacks. I couldn't help myself lol. I think they're so cute. I thought Jack was pretty hot in this chapter too. His willingness to do anything to defend and protect Alex is so sexy. Thank you so much for this ask! I've only gotten one comment on ao3 so it almost feels like people have lost interest in the story.

[12pt-times-new-roman]

c3e73

Day 1 of Travel

(a very important update: Marisha's preferred coffee is a flat white with vanilla.)

FCG and Fearne try to scry on Caleb and Beau, and both of them seem to have amulets of proof against detection and location attuned. This means that they are definitely alive, because their scry did not fizzle as it would have if they were dead but was started and then pushed away.

FCG scries on D instead. He's still on the Menagerie Coast, in a large city — presumably either Nicodranas, Port Damali, or Port Zoon.

Meanwhile, Ashton heads below deck to find the skeleton tattoo artist. They convince him to give them a full back piece over the course of the voyage; and Orym asks them all to get a group tattoo. "I mean, no one's said it out loud yet, but... but we're all family now, right?"

Laudna is finally talking about everything that's happened with the entire group! Especially with Delilah, but the gnarlrock, her and Imogen's fight, Bor'dor, and the hunger of the shadow ability, too. FCG suggests she embrace Delilah, continue using the ability, allowing her to grow stronger — but one of the skeletons comes up to her and compares Laudna's situation to an alcohol addiction (which doesn't have as much of an impact because Laudna didn't choose to have or keep Delilah in her head, but is still applicable in some ways).

They ask the skeleton about the captain's trustworthiness, but with a 32 insight check, Fearne determines that although he does mean it when he says the captain is trustworthy and has always followed through on his promises, this particular skeleton is lonely and a little afraid. Syrilia, the navigator, watches him like a hawk.

Laudna: "I don't know if I'm just collecting these souls, like a phylactery, or—" Travis, immediately: *looks up the stat block for a lich while staring daggers at Marisha and Matt because he fuckin knows*

Ashton knows that they're all fighting for each other, and that they won't ever leave anyone behind. They will all have to sacrifice so much, they already have — but sacrifices do not mean casualties.

They go below decks and get their tattoos! Ashton gets an upper back/shoulder, punkish, in-style pair of wings, embossed with a transcription in Primordial: "of the earth, by the earth, for the earth." Everyone else gets a bell with flames around it in varying places.

FCG attempts to scry on Delilah. The ritual fails because she's not on the same plane of existence as FCG. Instead, they try to find her in Laudna's dreams: as Laudna focuses, it's like she has a hard time remembering what Delilah looks like, she's just an outline, a shadow, perpetually back-lit. FCG, meanwhile, sees Laudna stepping through a field of purple orchids and funerary flowers. The distant shadow of Whitestone, unfocused. As Laudna walks, Delilah walks in front of her, as if leading.

Fearne's flirting with the captain!

The combination of her fey irreverence, complete nonchalance, abysmal sleight of hand, and incredible (+13) insight is so fucking good already, but then you add her damn good charisma bonuses on top of all that?

Syrilia goes up to Fearne. "Don't sleep with the captain." "Why, because it's not good?" FEARNE—

The captain's quarters are lit with blue-white fire lanterns, sparsely decorated, with a canopy bed and a fainting couch. She takes the bed, and converses. The captain made a deal with Bane (or a servant of it): he gets his life, his crew, and his ship, in exchange for getting vengeance and all of his belongings, and then the deal is complete and he's free.

She lies down. After a minute — "You're very warm." "You can lie next to me for warmth, if you want." "Are you offering your warmth?" "That sounds ominous." "I'm sorry, everything I say sounds ominous — it sort of comes with the territory." He sits. In that little moment, he doesn't seem scary — he seems sheepish, careful. She convinces him to let her say goodbye to the blade they traded away — "you! Lass of the fey realm! Together, we can do a great many things!" — and she asks the captain, "did it say something to you?" "No." "Fine. Get in the bed. Just — get. in the bed." He looks nervous for a skeleton — "it's been a long time since I, uh..." "SPOONED?"

She can almost see breath as he sighs, content, warm. She looks around the room. Notably, she sees a ring on a wood-carved hand; a porcelain statue of a baby elephant; a chest in the corner with a heavy lock and a mildewed blanket over it; an eclectic collection of things.

All the while, for an hour or two, Fearne grows cold. On a successful saving throw, she reduces the stakes from a certainty to a choice: "do you relinquish the promised warmth?" "Yes." She feels a sliver of warmth leave her, and for just a moment, the captain's bones aren't blanched gray — they glow as if hit by morning sunlight. Fearne's hit points are permanently reduced by 5, and she gains a secret thing (probably a benefit, based on track record) that Matt will tell her at the break.

We skip back to when Fearne entered the chamber. Orym notices Syrilia become frantic at the captain's absence; she clambers down the crow's nest and onto the side of the boat. Taking advantage of the absence, Orym climbs up there, finds her spyglass, takes it, and leaves.

As soon as Fearne exits the captain's chambers, Syrilia is right there, the heat from her smoldering bones almost burning away the hair on Fearne's face. "Don't. ever. touch. the captain... I. will. end. you. If you touch him again. I have to protect him." Oh, she's fucking pissed. Fearne tells them they cuddled, and her bones heat up even more — in an instant, the freezing cold of the lower decks becomes a sauna, steam rises from the upper deck.

Imogen casts calm emotions, it doesn't work, and Fearne convinces her that the captain only talked about her — "you just need to go knock on the door at night. You just need a bit more confidence." and it almost works, but she does step back with a glare and a knocked crossbow.

In the morning, on the last day, the captain asks for more of Fearne's warmth. "I don't feel like I'm getting anything out of this!" "Well, you were kind, to offer a bit of your warmth. Perhaps we could make another deal." "I don't know if I'm being kind anymore!" "I'm, uh... not used to this. I'll be in my quarters, if you decide."

Imogen speaks into Syrilia's head. "I mean... you are warm... offer him your warmth." She walks, confidently, down the hall, up to the door, and raps on the door — her hand goes to the front of the captain's coat, where flames erupt, and the captain goes, "oh." "Word is, you're looking for warmth?"

Laudna sends Pate to spy on them, and it's like a sauna. The room is full of steam. A skeletal hand scrapes across a window, Kate Winslet-style.

Every lantern light on the ship turns from an icy blue to a warm orange-red. "The captain's gettin' peg-legged right now." "Yo ho ho!"

They arrive at their destination. "It's been terrible having you on board! Glad to be rid of you!" The captain's flaming eye winks.

Oh, the Bells Hells are planning something -- "we have a surprise for you!" "I don't like surprises." "Well, put that blade away, 'cause I'm not gonna tell you what it is." "...everyone below decks!"

They decorate the top deck with banners and all manner of things to celebrate the pirate crew.

Orym sets up a limbo vine. Chetney has a caricature portrait station. Laudna does face-painting. Imogen does fortune telling. Fearne runs games for prizes. Fearne plays the pan-flute with FCG as her pedalboard. Ashton finds their most noxious, strong-smelling whiskey and sets it out so they can remember the good times.

The skeleton pirates dance, they limbo, they don't eat -- they make fun of Kyle, but the Hells make a gift for him: a nametag ("my name's Kyle, you fucks!"), a drawing, and a defense against his bullies.

FCG and Fearne both quietly, unacknowledged, remark that they truly made a difference because of this. (Quick, someone write an analysis about how the Bells Hells constantly treat any difference made to the minority as a victory for the majority, and about how their constant defense of the minority is Not A Good Thing Actually when the majority consists of the majority of the fucking planet--)

Imogen takes Laudna's hands and starts the dance. The skeletons start to dance, their bones make the percussion section, Sanjay plays his violin. (The only thing I can imagine here is the elecroswing remix of Spooky Scary Skeletons)

When the captain announces landfall, the music immediately stops, and the entire crew encircles the Bells Hells. "If any of you tells a single soul that you've danced with the crew of the Crimson Abyss, your bloodlines will be on my list, as well. There was no dancin', there was no laughter, there was no limbo."

The captain gives them a list of some of his belongings, just to keep an eye and ear out for on their travels. Then, the jump into the water and begin to swim to shore, without the inhabitants of the island ever having seen the skeleton crew.

Their first look at the island of Kalutha is of a lagoon leading into a steep basalt cliff-face. The entire thing seems to be composed of columnar basalt, which breaks naturally into hexagonal pillars. The bright teal ocean contrasts with yellow and greenish flora.

There are ruins, remnants of what might've been a campsite -- Orym identifies them as being a few years old, but not ancient. He also spots two caverns, one at beach level and another 40 feet up the cliff.

Ashton sits, digs their hand into the black pebble beach, and just breathes. They sense their essence -- "both of their essences, really, as they are a being of conflict at all times..." a buzzing in their head of the Luxon, the drumming in their chest of their elemental nature. This place is unfamiliar, they know they've never seen it, but they still feel familiarly compelled by it, and they don't know why. They know they're in the right place, but nothing more.

They walk unto the ground-level cave and puts their hand against the wall. In Primordial -- "I'm here. I'm looking for you." But it's just the end of a cave.

Eventually, everyone makes it to the spherical chamber where the upper cave forks. Chetney runs alone to the right, where Pate hasn't scouted, following this citrine putrescence -- and here, he hears the sound of a thousand scales sliding against rock. He goes invisible, but snakes sense by smell -- out of the corner of his eye, something slithers past him, five feet in diameter. At the front, it looks like a thick-hided worm, and it's encircling him, this two-headed creature that's trying to pinpoint Chet's location but is unsure -- he takes out the horn of silent alarm, targeting Imogen.

and we enter initiative!

They're talking about the creatonotos gangis moth! It's that weird moth with extrusions that look like an eldritch horror that was circulating on Tumblr for a while.

No new combat updates :(

Farther down the cave, Chetney finds a lightless, underground chasm where seawater rushes through beneath the island. (Hey. Hey, y'all remember how the land around Cathmoira was shattered when the titans were expelled from it?)

In the creature's nest, they find some sundered weapons and armor. With a history check, Orym has heard of the material these are made of: woe-steel, a material that can only be found within the Shattered Teeth and that was created when Asmodeus shattered Domunas. The steel is sacred to the Ostended Host, and though it is magical (a natural +1 to material made with it), it can be destroyed by thunder damage.

They also find a unique charm on a broken chain: a woe-steel cage, palm-sized, encasing a smooth reddish-brown stone that has an unfamiliar language carved across it. FCG identifies it and finds that it is a raito charm, and has a deep cultural importance to the Aishio people (who inhabit the island of Kolutha and are part of the Ostended Host). It radiates abjuration magic, but the spell doesn't give FCG exactly what it is, and it is attunable only by a specific person, implying that the information of its existence is not accessible to FCG in the same way that information about other magical items has been.

Chetney uses grim psychometry on it. In the red vision, he sees an older man in his 50s, long salt and pepper hair in a bun, trekking through the jungle, leading a hunting party; he wears the charm around his neck, and in seconds was taken by the creature they just killed. Chetney has no sense of how long ago this happened, but because it's a magical item, it wouldn't have aged.

Traversing the other cavern path, they emerge into the creeping, vine-filled jungle that takes this valley. It's almost autumnal in color, and these pieces of columnar basalt are scattered about, some arcing for hundreds of feet in what look almost like broken bridges. But they can see the shadow of three massive mountain peaks that mark the center of this island, and somewhere near the base of those mountains lies the Great Tree of Atrophy.

[fairycosmos]

"and even though i live with my mother and see her every day every time i talk to her she seems older and sicker and more reliant on me and my dad's getting grey hair as well."

You should move out (unless it's financially impossible), and you should also watch Beau is Afraid if you haven't already (really good for any mommy issues but it might fuck you up more so proceed with caution lol).

It may seem selfish, but being on your own can often be the kick in the pants one needs to fully self-actualize...you didn't ask to be born so you don't really owe your parents anything

honestly i can't rn - my mother is financially dependent on me and isn't working herself. i'm working on getting her more financial support + healthcare but it's such a long process i'm not sure it ever will end. i definitely want to move out at some point but there's a lot complicating the issue. thank you btw ive heard a lot of good things about beau is afraid and wanna see it!! didn't know it was specifically about mother issues though im ready for it to fuck me up for real. putting it on my must watch list as speakkk

[cgsf]

Teen Wolf fanfiction recs:

Stiles Stilinski/Peter Hale [Part 2]

"Get the Facts Straight" (E) by Udunie | 6,773 | Derek gave him a withering look. “Don’t reverse Malfoy me, Uncle Peter… And anyway, what if I tell her about this?” What. “About what?” Derek propped his chin up, fluttering his lashes. “Oh, mom! I saw Peter talking to an omega today! He bought him a coffee! He told him all about what a bigshot lawyer he is!” “Oh, shut up,” Peter growled. He hated his family.

"sentire" (T) by snowdarkred | 1,027 | Stiles hears the whisper of death before it strikes.

"reflect" (T) by snowdarkred | 569 | When he dreams, he can sometimes still hear his mother’s voice, explaining it to him: Reflections are the price we pay for what we are.

"nips and nibbles" (T) by Potrix | 3,838 | 5 times people aren't sure if Stiles is telling the truth about how he got turned, plus the 1 time everyone knows he just has to be lying.

"Loan Wolves" (E) by veterization | 117,313 | At seventeen, Stiles' mother dies, and suddenly, with bills piling up, Stiles and his father are in financial straits. Enter Peter Hale, the loan shark.

"a new fun fair" (M) by 1001cranes | 3,997 | Series of ficlets set in alternate universes centered around Peter Hale & Stiles.

"Holding it Together Like a Rubber Band" (E) by sparrow_ink | 979 | During the day, Peter is the Alpha they need. Because at night, Stiles holds him together by letting Peter take him apart. All Stiles wants is to take care of his mate and his pack.

"Right Down to Your Sweetness" (M) by bookwormywriter | 831 | Stiles isn't exactly sure why he came here.

"Transactions" (M) by Llama | 4,046 | Stiles has his own 'superpower', but sometimes he forgets the implications of that.

"Dancing to a Different Tune" (E) by Llama | 985 | Stiles and Peter don't have a relationship, but they do have a lot of beginnings.

"Do not go where I cannot follow" (E) by accounting | 7,148 | With Peter, there was always something behind the sass and biting remarks, but now there’s a pull that’s simply undeniable to something so beautiful and monstrous, a man who could rip him to pieces, but taking him apart with pleasure and pain, one whimper and moan at a time instead. "Yours has a unique scent. I would know it anywhere. Just like your anger, and your fear." he leans forward, his nose just barely touching the sweaty skin beneath Stiles’ jaw, "But you're not afraid right now."

"take me (somewhere we can be alone)" (M) by willowcrowned | 2,730 | A low growl sounds in Peter’s throat, eyes flashing a bright, unnatural blue. Then, because Stiles definitely overdid it on the champagne, it takes another three seconds for him to put that together with the total lack of drunk people and the very careful way everyone is avoiding getting their scent on anyone else. “Oh my god,” Stiles says, the press of Peter’s lips and teeth only a vague footnote in his subconscious as the hysteria takes hold, “I crashed a werewolf wedding.”

"build-a-beau" (E) by veterization | 41,564 | Sick of being nagged about being single, college student Stiles turns to an Internet service that gives him the illusion of having a boyfriend. Said boyfriend is pretty damn interesting, and things basically go downhill from there.

"e-Missary" (M) by DiscontentedWinter | 6,836 | Peter Hale has a tension headache building behind his eyes, a nephew who has picked the wrong time to have a crisis of conscience, and a bound and gagged college freshman in the trunk of his car as he speeds north along Highway 101. This is not how he intended his weekend to go, but Peter is nothing if not adaptable.

"becoming who we are" (E) by DarkIsRising | 5,281 | It’s been days since the funeral. Longer since he’d boarded a plane back to Beacon Hills. Longer still since the call from the hospital had come in looking to talk to Noah Stilinski’s next of kin.

"Hey Lover, I Got a Sugarcane" (E) by pibroch | 17,306 | “Put Peter on the phone,” Stiles says, too sharp to be polite. “What?” Derek sounds completely thrown. “Stiles, I don’t think— Okay, you’re obviously not understanding what’s happening here. Peter isn’t talking. He’s basically just growling at this point, and he’s rounding on anyone that gets too close.”

"No Secrets" (E) by mswhich | 9,935 | Stiles gets hit by a truth spell that makes him want to spill all his darkest, deepest secrets. Derek, knowing how dangerous this can be, hides him away in the loft while he goes to ask Deaton for help. Which is when Peter Hale finds him.

"You're Bacon Me Crazy" (G) by Mysenia | 756 | Stiles + pet pig = a (date) meal with Peter.

"the soft animal of your body" (T) by finnickyfox | 3,694 | “Which one is the ugly duckling?” Stiles smacks his chest. “Of course you’d ask that. It’s not the outside that matters, but the inside.” Peter snorts. “If that’s true, we’re fucked.” Stiles laughs. A few nights later, he sleepily mumbles, “Your insides aren’t so bad, Peter Hale.”

"Get Off (Me)" (E) by KouriArashi | 77,077 | Stiles hates being left behind with Peter while the pack is fighting monsters, because he never knows exactly what Peter will get up to.

"Brutal, Bloody Revenge" (T) by Arvak | 24,306 | Stiles travels back in time in order to save everyone he loves, but accidentally goes a bit too far. Now he's stuck in the body of his 17 year old self with the knowledge of every good and bad thing that will happen in the next ten years. Oh, and Peter is suspicious and far too intelligent for his own good.

"Baring It All" (M) by Arvak | 5,317 | "I'm fine, you know. I don't actually need a baby-sitter," Stiles insisted. To say that interaction with Peter was tedious was a vast understatement. Stiles can't say he doesn't normally enjoy it - it's a nice change from the bland back and forth he has with anyone else. At least Peter keeps things interesting. But it is still Peter; a psychopathic, manipulative, homicidal maniac. His nicknames are Zombiewolf and Creeperwolf and Satan-In-A-V-Neck for a reason!

"Kink Caboodle, Chapter 20" (E) by Triangulum | 241 | He tilts his head to the side, baring his neck. Peter's claws prick against Stiles's side, making him shiver. "Come on, Alpha," Stiles says, voice ragged. "Don't you want everyone to know I'm yours?"

"Kink Caboodle, Chapter 25" (T) by Triangulum | 962 | Stiles is attacked because Peter's attention slips for one second. He's pulling a particularly feral beta off of Derek when the alpha of the rival pack sinks his dirty fangs into Stiles' shoulder, snapping his collarbone. Peter goes ballistic.

"On Body Disposal and Other Crimes" (M) by Triangulum | 1,950 | Stiles sighs, unlocking his phone. It’s 4:00 a.m. and this isn’t a call he wants to make, but between a lot of bad options, this one sucks the least. He presses call and waits for Peter’s grumpy growl. “What do you want?” Peter’s voice is a displeased rumble. "Where's your body dump?" Stiles asks.

"In Case of Emergency, Call..." (T) by aurevell | 9,246 | Peter only finds out he’s Stiles’s emergency contact when the hospital calls.

"That's it, darling." (E) by bonerkiller | 1,184 | The water falling on them has grown cold now, but Stiles can't bring himself to care, not when Peter's own supernatural body heat is keeping him warm. He can feel the tight grip of Peter's fingers digging into his hips as he pins Stiles to the tiled wall, his breath on his wet skin.

"A Curious Magic" (E) by Triangulum | 25,155 | It’s a definite surprise when the wards at the edge of his property trip, the tingling down Stiles' spine telling him it’s a werewolf, the lack of burning sensation letting him know there’s no hostile intent. He’s expecting to see an Ito packmember, even though they nearly always call in advance, and is surprised to see a man that he recognizes as Talia’s brother, Peter.

"until the stars burn out the morning sky" (M) by rospeaks | 2,546 | Derek puts Peter on a probationary period before allowing him to join the pack, and says that he has to check in with Stiles. When Peter fails to check in one too many times, Stiles goes to track him down. “I'm just looking for a guy. Peter, you know. older, arrogant, reeking of smug charm?”

"Centrefold" (M) by gemjam | 1,988 | Stiles started modelling to earn money in college. It was thanks to Peter that he even knew werewolf softcore porn was a thing.

"then i became greedy" (T) by rospeaks | 738 | “Let me guess,” Stiles says teasingly, rising up to his knees, almost hovering over Peter. “If I ever need to blow off some steam again, you’re just one phone call away? I know better.”

"Feel the Tide Turning" (E) by rospeaks | 3,893 | He'd understood, and when the opportunity to run came, he ran. Stiles tries not to feel shame for that, but when he sees Scott waiting for him outside of the baggage claim, he can't quite match him, smile for smile.

••••••

More to be added.

[shadowgast-recs-weekly]

Shadowgast Recs: Pre-Episode 97

This week, we went back before the Essek traitor reveal to look at older characterizations (and spellings) of Essek. Look behind the cut for a dozen stories published before Campaign 2, Episode 97 aired! And if you liked them, don't be afraid to make someone's day by commenting or giving kudos on someone's 3+ years old work!

a study in attraction by invoked_duplicity (1105,Teen) Warnings: none

Caleb asks Beau about how long she's liked women.

Reccer says: It's a sweet interaction between Beau and Caleb, and a very interesting characterization of Caleb as demisexual and attracted to a man for the very first time with Essek.

stay a moment or two by renquise (1999,Teen) Warnings: none

Caleb gives Essek a practical demonstration of Empire spellwork - for haste and slow

Reccer says: The tension is palpable, and I like the Beau interjection in the beginning

call it a human plea by flammablehat (1586,Explicit) Warnings: None

Caleb seeks out Essek to ask about the Volstrucker

Reccer says: It features a very early version of top!Essek and Caleb being turned on by Essek's magic

Dunamancy by jakia (7062,Teen) Warnings: Major character death

Caleb learns a spell from Essek to travel to other timelines, and explores three different versions of "what if?"

Reccer says: Each universe is beautifully realized, but it's Essek's reactions that really make the fic IMO.

components: v, s, m by renquise (2784,Explicit) Warnings: None

Essek is tutoring Caleb in magic again, and asks him to demonstrate some of his skills; the lesson quickly takes a turn for the sexy

Reccer says: If you like your Shadowgast smut to feature heavy doses of the wizards showing off magically, you will like this

ALTER SELF by Mikkeneko (2059,General) Warnings: None

A sweet little fic where Essek is trying his damnedest to hit on Caleb, only to be stymied by Caleb's obliviousness and ignorance of Kryn courting rituals.

Reccer says: A very sweet little fic, and the headcanons on Kryn flirting rituals are fun (pomegranates! blatantly on display! le gasp!)

the risk i took was calculated, but man am i bad at math by the_littlest_goblin (7529,Teen) Warnings: dubious consent

After the Bright Queen forbids Essek from teaching Caleb any more spells, Caleb decides to try to secude Essek instead.

Reccer says: It's cute and fun, and there's a good conversation about how fucked up the premise is (and good characterization on how Caleb goes through with it anyway)

Overheard Conversations by jakia (2674,Teen) Warnings: none

The M9 scry on Essek and learn about his crush on Caleb, the fic

Reccer says: Peak "trying to set your friend up with the hot mysterious guy you all just met" vibes. Also love the original character here.

(Mis)Trust in Me by MoonwalkingCrab (31429,Explicit) Warnings: none

After the failure in the Lotusden, the Nein heads back to Rosohna and Caleb tries to patch things up with Essek.

Reccer says: There's the post-Lotusden mutual manipulation and mutually unsure of their attraction going on, and it's delicious.

A Handful of Possibilities by Tromper (2883,Teen) Warnings: None

Post Episode 79 (the double teleportation request and forearm touch), Essek checks in on the Nein and Caleb

Reccer says: One of the things that first attracted me to this ship was the mutual manipulation and suspicion, and it's definitely on display here! I love how they they're testing each other out.

Two Halves of a Coin by DotyTakeThisDown (7427,Explicit) Warnings: none

A soulmate AU where Caleb and Essek are soulmates, but Caleb had his mark removed by Trent

Reccer says: I like the extended amount of time spent on how Caleb feels about having a soulmate and having it removed - and the evolution of those feelings.

would you stay for just a while by eldritch_beau (3937,Teen) Warnings: none

Essek sees the ocean for the very first time. He and Caleb talk.

Reccer says: It's very tender, and definitely interesting to read in retrospect (as this was clearly written before we knew about the treason)

Aeor is for Lovers is an 18+ Shadowgast Discord server. The above fanfic recommendations were pulled from our community for this weekly event. All fics, unless otherwise specified, will primarily feature Shadowgast. And hey! Don’t forget to leave comments and kudos for the lovely authors!

Have any questions about what this is? Check out the FAQ! Next week’s theme is going to be focusing on Eiselcross and Aeor fics, so keep an eye out for that!

[fencecollapsed]

☕️ + every movie you've seen for the first time this year!

OOH that's a good one,, I have seen too many movies for the first time this year to try and do all of them though jfskn SO I am gonna go with the first ten I think of, I hope that is okay <3

Beau is Afraid - I really like Ari Aster's other two movies, and I knew this one was more divisive so I went in with an open mind. I wanted to like this movie but ehhh it just didn't do it for me. I don't think it's bad, I liked parts of it, and it's very clearly a personal passion project so I'm glad it exists on principle. but I think it dragged on a little longer than necessary and it was a little too mean-spirited to work for me the way I feel like it was meant to. still succeeds at being an absolute nightmare, just not one I find as resonant as Hereditary or Midsommar. also Aster clearly has some less than stellar opinions about homeless people.

Sunshine - hadn't heard of this movie til my mom told me about it but I really liked it! honestly it takes something a little special to get me properly invested in space movies, idk why, but this succeeds. probably because the cast is great and also the way the story events unfold is Terrifying. the way the sun is used as an unknowable terror is really cool. I'd call this movie viscerally beautiful in that, eldritch horror "so-horrible-it's-beautiful" kind of way? it's hard to explain it was just very striking to me. the third act gets a lot of flack from what I've seen and I do kinda get why, but I liked it, I don't think the twist is bad.

All My Friends Hate Me - oh baby this movie made me want to rip my skin off hgjsknfd y'know those posts that are like "horror movies have nothing on secondhand embarrassment"? well this is a horror movie about secondhand embarrassment. it's just failed social interaction after failed social interaction as the tension steadily builds and it is ROUGH. I've never hated seeing myself in a character as much as I haaaated seeing myself in Pete. if this shit happened to me I'd end up on the news. I feel like I have to Do Something to avoid this happening to me. nightmare of a movie. I liked it a lot.

Bottoms - I watched this on the plane when I went to Minnesota in April :] I wanted to see it in theaters last year and ended up missing it, and aughhh I really wish I'd gotten to see it in theaters cuz it's SO fun. so silly. absolute delight. I would like Ayo Edebiri and Rachel Sennott to star in ten more movies together please.

To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything! Julie Newmar - I adored this movie <3 it's fun and very genuinely kind, and Patrick Swayze's performance as Vida was just as phenomenal as that one post said. all three of the main drag queens were played so well, Wesley Snipes and John Leguizamo deserve praise for their portrayals, too. good movie.

Deadpool & Wolverine - I had fun! it's no masterpiece obviously and I definitely think the first two Deadpools are objectively better in terms of story and character work, but this one was very successfully fun and that's really the main thing I want from a Deadpool movie. excellent fight scenes. the opening credits were tailor made specifically for me, by the way. that was for Me-

Trap - I have seen one other M. Night Shyamalan movie in my time and it was a while ago so I can't speak on his whole catalogue, but folks who know his work better let me know what other movies of his are like Trap, cuz I enjoyed Trap. it's so fucking goofy I had a great time. nobody talks or behaves like an actual person and that's like half the charm. it's a nepotism movie to boost Saleka Shyamalan's music career and I respect that cuz it's not subtle and it's entertaining. not Amazing or anything but it's solidly fun.

Dream Scenario - the movie where Nic Cage plays a guy named Paul Matthews... strange movie!! bizarrely distressing at times. I was drunk with my bestie when I watched it so I think I'd have to watch it again to know how I really feel about it. I don't think I disliked it though. solidly surreal and interesting for sure.

We're All Going to the World's Fair - not as good as I Saw the TV Glow, imo, but still very good! very slow and quiet and somber. excellent use of its low budget. reeeeally captured that specific feeling of adolescence, holing up in your room and watching videos you probably shouldn't in the dark late at night. very "haha I did that" for me. also May Leitz was there!! which I still think is very cool. extremely niche cameo but hey I was the audience for it.

Saw - I think. that Saw is fine hgnkdmsg it's fine. it doesn't do for me what it seems to do for a lot of other people on this site, but I liked it fine. good ending definitely, the ending is probably the best part imo. that and Amanda's trap sequence, best parts. I am interested in the sequels, I don't know if I'll watch ALL of them but I'd like to dip into them at some point. I liked it fine.

[beatriceeagle]

When she looked in he was meditating, skinny brown legs pretzeled on his floor cushion and narrow ribcage slowly expanding and contracting. He looked up at the sound of the door, and his eyes narrowed into a glare.

“What?”

Don’t yell at him, he’s your son. Don’t yell at him, he’s your son. Beau’s mantras had gotten a lot more depressing since she became a mom.

“I’m heading out,” Beau said.

“What do I care?”

“I guess you don’t.” She crossed her arms, affecting nonchalance. “Your breath control looks good.”

“I don’t need you to tell me about breath control. You didn’t even learn to meditate until you were like 25.”

Jasper was a novice at the Rexxentrum Cobalt Soul library, where apparently some of the monks needed to learn to shut the fuck up. But Beau didn't have time to stew on that. “Well, anyway. Goodnight.”

Thank you for the ask! DVD commentary under the cut.

When she looked in he was meditating, skinny brown legs pretzeled on his floor cushion and narrow ribcage slowly expanding and contracting. I didn't realize this until I got a comment asking me about it much later, but this is the only physical description of Jasper in the fic. I have a very poor visual imagination--somewhere around a 4 on the aphantasia scale--which probably has something to do with it. He looked up at the sound of the door, and his eyes narrowed into a glare.

“What?”

Don’t yell at him, he’s your son. Don’t yell at him, he’s your son. Beau’s mantras had gotten a lot more depressing since she became a mom.

“I’m heading out,” Beau said.

“What do I care?” I think this is one of the clearest places that you can see that Jasper really evolved as I wrote him. Later in the fic, as I started to get a better sense of his baggage, his attitude towards Beau became a lot more about sullen silence and avoidance and a lot less about outright attitude. (Because although he is genuinely irritated by and hostile towards her, he's also afraid of her--and of most adults.) I could've changed it before publishing, but ultimately I thought it was good to get a clear depiction of the situation up front. Beau's feelings of rejection drive the plot very strongly, and I needed to make sure that they were immediately understandable to the reader.

“I guess you don’t.” She crossed her arms, affecting nonchalance. “Your breath control looks good.”

“I don’t need you to tell me about breath control. You didn’t even learn to meditate until you were like 25.” Also frankly I just think this is funny and I wanted to keep it.

Jasper was a novice at the Rexxentrum Cobalt Soul library, I pretty much had the wiki page for the Cobalt Soul permanently open while writing this fic, and I still can't keep track of which branches are libraries/archives/reserves. They seem to use the terms almost interchangeably, which definitely doesn't drive me crazy as a librarian. Definitely. where apparently some of the monks needed to learn to shut the fuck up. But Beau didn't have time to stew on that. “Well, anyway. Goodnight.”

[harmonyckrs]

Day 8 in Twisted Pleasantview: They're Here for Us

THE PREVIOUS DAY

NAME: DUSTIN BROKE

LIFE STAGE: TEEN

STATUS: ALIVE, POSSESSED FUNCTIONAL

SPECIAL NOTES: Never make a deal with fairies.

---

Dear Diary,

Mom went missing today.

The last time I saw her she was going to visit Cassandra to probably have a make-out session. Angela thinks she probably stayed the night, but I feel like she definitely would've told us if she did. Dad's still at the hospital because apparently there were some complications with the birth, so I don't know if he knows.

Dirk and Aunt Jen both gave me their condolences today, but I don't really feel anything. I did dream of this happening after Dina disappeared, but I never really thought it would happen. Grandma and Grandpa also moved in with us temporarily until Dad came back from the hospital, which feels unnecessary but I'd take them over either Mom or Dad any day. Am I allowed to say that? I'm sure Mom will be fine, anyway.

Anyway, I tried to ask Angela about how her report was going but she said she wanted to keep it secret. I know deep down she hasn't done shit, because I haven't seen her make any effort to try to talk to the Specters at all. Once I asked her about it more she snapped and said she overheard me talking to Pascal and was afraid that whatever I had in that report would end up undermining hers.

I don't know why she was so upset when the Specters have a good reputation while mine is on the guy that they fucked over with the help of all the influential people in town, but I told her that we can compare reports and she seemed to calm down after that.

We dropped by the Broke trailer after school to visit Dustin but it turns out he went missing and Ms. Broke was in a frenzy. I genuinely don't think I've ever seen her that panicked tbh, or at all really. We offered to help her look around, before we eventually found Dustin inside of what seemed to be a circle of flowers that formed around one of trees near the trailer. He seemed really dazed and just stared up at the sky, so we decided to play some good old-fashioned Punch You Punch Me as we waited for him to come back to his senses.

Once he left the ring he said he was tired and wanted to go to sleep, but Angela was able to talk to him while I went to take a shit in their bathroom. The Broke walls were hella thin, so I heard everything. Dustin claimed that he got transported to another realm by a fairy and that he saw an Asian man with long hair and green tinted glasses staring at him from behind a cold, glass wall. He also mentioned seeing a hall of mirrors which reflected the people who went missing, including Beau and Mom, but that he was sent back before he could do anything about them. He seemed kinda frazzled the entire time, so we decided to just let him go to sleep and return home.

I guess I can ask Ripp if he could introduce me to Puck, one of our other classmates who's a fairy. He seems pretty chill but he's super shy, so it's hard to talk to him because of that. I'm guessing he might know something about it, or at least direct me to someone who has. I'm not entirely sure if I believe Dustin, but considering how he just magically appeared in that flower ring I'm certain fairies probably had something to do with it.

I wonder if Strangetown ever had fairy incidents, like they do with aliens. I did hear that they're mainly from Veronaville, due to it the environment being more friendly towards fairies, but I don't think it's impossible for fairies to be found elsewhere. I guess I can ask someone from Strangetown about it later.

THE NEXT DAY

[dent-de-leon]

Hey!!! I just wanted to throw some Kingsley positivity your way because I love that tief so much. I hope we get to see him in liveshow! I want to hear about his adventures as Pirate King. I want to see how his relationship with Fjord and Jester has evolved over the years! I bet they visit him all the time. Getting up to all kinds of Darktow shenanigans. And if Beau and Yasha have kids now, I bet they think he’s the COOLEST uncle!! And he probably loves those kids soooo much because they’re Yasha’s kids and Yasha is his bestie. <3 Anyways ah I am always always thinking about Kingsley. Love him.

Aw thank you for this it made my day ;; MAN I DIDN'T EVEN THINK OF KING MEETING BEAU AND YASHA'S KIDS!! THAT WOULD JUST BE!! THE SWEETEST THING!! Thinking of how King gave Beau and Yasha flowers on that day he first woke up, how as Molly he tried to do a little magic trick to cheer up that one firbolg child and gave him one of his moon charms. Molly taking such good care of Toya...

Yeah, he'd definitely look after their kids for them. He absolutely brings them gifts whenever he visits--interesting little flowers and seashells and shiny trinkets that catch his eye. ALSO LUCIEN BEING SO SOFT AND HIS HEART MELTING AT THE SIGHT OF HIS NIECE FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME?? Yeah. Kingsley would be so good with kids actually and I can see Yasha and Beau making him really feel a part of their family. I need to see King in the Reunion just for him hugging Yasha and telling his Love how much he missed her alone--

And you're right it would be just so fun to see King with Jester and Fjord again! I can't get over the fact that they all sailed together for years, have spent longer together at sea than the whole of campaign 2 lasted?? That's wild to me?? They definitely have some stories to share-- AND HIS REIGN AS THE PIRATE KING! Would do anything to watch Tal play as King Kingsley, I just feel in my heart that he would portray this dashing royal rogue exactly the same as Molly pretending to be Duke. That alone would be just so good.

And then...god. The fact that it's a oneshot to rescue Caleb and Beau, how Molly specifically had such an important bond with both of them, couldn't help growing so attached to them so quickly. Getting himself killed in the Lorenzo fight because it was Beau he was trying to save, because getting cut down when all he desperately wanted was to live, be happy, be loved--it was all still worth it as long as he made sure Beau specifically got away.

Seeing her and Caleb getting attacked in the Lucien novel causes him an agonizing physical pain, because he just can't bear to lose them. The moments when his Magician reaches out to him over and over and briefly shatters Lucien's control, reaches back to Molly's tormented soul. Lucien taunting Molly over and over, gloating to him, "I've won" as the Eyes start to brand Rumor and Magician. "Your Caleb and Beauregard," he says. Threatening to take away two of the people Mollymauk cares about most.

Molly holding onto the memory of a forehead kiss in his most painful moments, seeing Caleb as "Softness and light." Still flirting with him as Kingsley. He held onto the journal Beau gave him, afraid to open it at first, but--he still kept it. For the day when he's finally ready "to visit and learn," to slip away to Beau and Yasha in the middle of the night and ask them about Molly, because he's scared he might never get the opportunity. Beau and Caleb just mean so much to him, even though he's not quite ready to admit it.

But still, for them, for the Nein--he wants to be good to them. Do right by them. Be a better person for them:

"I've been told that the best thing you can do is do just slightly better than them. And that's...Honest to the gods, that is actually what I'm trying to do. I don't necessarily know what it's going to look like. I have thoughts. Some that I think that either one of them might approve of, that you might approve of, and I want to make sure that you know that if nothing but out of respect for my family, for my parents, we always have a fair deal."

"Well, I've been thinking about it, and I've been trying to figure out where the other two went wrong..."

"I've realized, at the beginning, that I was running from everything that had happened before, and that's something that the other two had done and so it was probably something I didn't want to do again, which is why I'm asking..."

"I try and be a good person, or whatever I think that is."

I can't see King confessing all that to Beau and then not immediately running to her rescue. I can't see him not rushing to Caleb's side when he hears the man he saw as "softness and light," the one he called out to right after Yasha, the one first cast the spell to bring him back to life--I could never see Molly/King abandoning him either, in any life.

I understand why Decues would be an interesting choice too--and honestly I would be down for seeing Tal play them both if that's possible--but. I feel like he could also be very involved in the solstice in his own way, whereas King running back to the Nein makes more sense to me? From a meta standpoint, Cad has a whole arc of growth and a family that loves him, a reason to stay. An entire story. And King? Absolutely breaks my heart when he looks at the Nein and says things like, "I hope I deserve to have woken up surrounded by such people." "Maybe those chains will find some quiet in piracy." And perhaps the most damning, "What else do I have?"

He loves the Nein. Died twice over for them and wholeheartedly believes in cannon, "It was worth it. It was worth it--" Even as he tries to cope with all these painful memories and messy feelings, tries to keep a bit of distance and tells himself he has nothing to lose like the rest of them. That's not a character that's in a good place, a happy place. Tal specified at the end of C2 that he throws himself right into piracy as an escape, a way to quiet the nightmares of screams and chains. (King also visits Deuces! Because it seems like he has these little doubts. Fears. A pain that haunts him, that he tries to forget--)

He never had the chance to really grow, or change--but he's starting to. And it's so fascinating, it would be such a shame if that got cut off when there's really the perfect chance for him to finally do what he always struggled with as Mollymauk--not run away from the past, no matter how terrifying and painful it is. Yes, Kingsley is born from a Divine Intervention. Yes, Lucien is fate touched, and Molly was born under a Ruidus flare in the Savalirwood. All of that makes him such a narratively fitting choice for the Reunion to me.

But I still think the most compelling reason of all is that King finally has the chance to own up to the past and realize what he did in his final moments as Molly, as Lucien--he loves the Nein too much to keep running away. He has them, not nothing--and they're worth all the pain and grief of his haunting memories.

Also!! King literally being born in a dream of the Moonweaver, Sehanine saving both Molly and Lucien's souls?? Tell me this isn't the perfect chance to explore everything Tal had planned for Molly's relationship with the Moonweaver. Taliesin barely got to scrape the surface with Molly/King, and I get so sad whenever he expresses that he wishes he had more time with this tief: "I've been working on this [comic] so long. It's all that backstory that I didn't get to tell because I am bad at rolling." "Kingsley's different. Kingsley's a different thing, a different vibe. And I was sad that I didn't get to really get into...a lot of that last time. In two games--"

And again, I think Deuces could be doing fascinating stuff in the solstice, and it would be cool to see his side of it. But I would just love to see King spend that time with the Nein--and I honestly think Cad could have just as fascinating an adventure with his family back at the grove. Some Clay stuff from an Episode of 4 Sided Dive that I keep thinking back on in light of the Reunion (this was after the Uk'otoa):

"'Look I'm kinda stuck here working on a spell. And my house. That needs to be fixed. I wish I could help...' Caduceus is dealing with the fact that. Well. His house burned down 6 months ago, and--thank you all for helping--you did [help a little.] It was great. But Cad is actually in the middle of...Caduceus was tired. He's--he's in the middle of resetting the Blooming Grove, which also requires casting of Temple of the Gods, which takes every day for a year. You gotta sit. And do it. So getting away would have been a little tricky. And yeah. Getting him out of his house six months later would have been...[He's in the] same place. Every day. for a year."

"[It takes] the type of effort that someone who was originally going to live in this place for their entire life can do. But...getting away is possible, but it's very very hard, because then you have to have somebody cover. Somebody who can do that cover. And not fuck it up. So I was like...I cannot justify him buggering out of home 6 months later. He had already--well. He put in his time. He'll be back out again."

And right now Ruidus is shattering enchantments that have held for years, decades, eons. And I feel like that probably knocked out...all those wards Deuces painstakingly reset in the Blooming Grove...And there's going to be some fascinating new friends and enemies--like the ancient spirit Umudara--that'll be released from the chains that bound them for centuries. Creatures who are all going to flock right back to the site of Molaesmyr, and likely stumble right into Deuces' home.

My ideal personally very self indulgent dream: King in the Nein Reunion, and then another oneshot of the Clays confronting all the spooky things that crawl out of the haunted woods on a red moon night--

[denimbex1986]

'Coming to the end of Barbenheimer weekend, here are my stats. I have seen Barbie, but I have not seen Oppenheimer. This is not a feminist or aesthetic decision. It’s because Barbie is one hour and 54 minutes long, while Oppenheimer is just over three hours long.

I’m not alone in being perturbed by the length of the movie; over the weekend on TikTok and Twitter people posted the exact time that it was safe to go to the bathroom during Christopher Nolan’s epic. Others shared the app RunPee which is specifically created for this purpose (if you’re interested, it’s when Oppenheimer’s brother first comes on screen, apparently). These people are well practised at the art of knowing what parts of a cinematic epic can be missed because, lately, it seems filmmakers are well practised in the art of making movies and flat out refusing to cut them down to non-epic length.

James Cameron’s original Avatar came in at two hours 42 minutes. A decade later, Avatar: The Way of the Water, comes in at three hours and 12 minutes. The original Dune (1984) came in at two hours 17 minutes. Denis Villeneuve’s upcoming sequel to his reboot is slated to be three hours and 15 minutes. Even non-cinematic releases have embraced epic length; Netflix’s Blonde, released last year, was two hours and 46 minutes long, which felt reasonable given that three years before The Irishman ran for three hours 29 minutes. Ari Aster’s breakout horror, Hereditary, was a reasonable two hours and seven minutes. His follow up a year later, Midsommar, came in at two hours 28 minutes. Beau Is Afraid, released earlier this year, was two hours 59 minutes. Then there is Zac Snyder’s extended cut of Justice League that comes in at a criminally long four hours and two minutes.

Back in 2019 when Martin Scorsese released The Irishman, a long run-time was seen as a problem rather than what it is now; a thing to be endured or a badge of honour. “Meanwhile, traditional Hollywood studios beholden to box office sales have become progressively risk-averse in recent years (producing a three and a half hours-long film definitely counts as a risk, no matter how esteemed Scorsese is),” one article reported at the time. “A fact the filmmaker recently lamented when he argued that ‘cinema is gone.’ Perhaps The Irishman will help bring it back, if audiences can gear up for the long haul.”

It seems that the long movie is now a badge of honour for directors, screeners and filmmakers. Longer is more theatrical, more expensive, more intrinsically artistic. Compare this to previous cult movies that a generation before were noted both for their impact and for their short runtime; La Haine is only one hour 38 minutes long, Gummo is only 89 minutes long, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Pink Flamingos, Kids, Trainspotting — all really very short! But nowadays the ‘kill your darlings’ editing method has been inverted. “Most long films could be promoted as special and prestigious,” Dana Polan, a cinema studies professor at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, told Variety. “There was an assumption that length equaled quality. It’s almost to say, we’ve spent the money — let’s flaunt it.”

I had a theory that, given these lengthy blockbuster examples, the 90 minute movie was simply gone, done, over. But then I looked back at the past year’s releases and was proved sadly wrong. Rye Lane was one hour and 22 minutes long. Aftersun also ran at just over 90 minutes. As did Are You There God, It’s Me Margaret, and Sydney Sweeney’s Reality. Even Infinity Pool and A24’s The Whale were both under two hours long. Clearly 90 minute films still are around, but why does it feel like films are getting longer then. Why do we spend so much time talking about the long ones?

“These days, there’s a lot of talk about long running times,” Sarah Atkinson, professor of screen media at King’s College London, told The Guardian last year following the release of Tenet (which somehow didn’t even reach three hours). It’s all part of incentivising people to go out and pay for a ticket, which they won’t do unless it’s for something special – a big, epic film. Just look at the Marvel franchise: almost every one is well over two hours.” Film length isn’t going up, she concluded, but we think it is. Why? Sarah believed it was simply down to good, savvy marketing.

One other answer could be that our attention span is just worse now. That our attention span is destroyed, actually, by short form social media video and constantly having access to information chopped up to be digested as quickly as possible. We watch TV at double speed or 1.5 speed with the subtitles on. We can look up the plot on Wikipedia and even if we can’t be bothered to go to the cinema and figure out when it’s safe to pee, in six months or a year’s time we can watch whatever film we missed on TikTok anyway, chopped up into parts in a post-123 Movies age of piracy. Even if this doesn’t captivate us enough, someone will have edited those cut-up clips further, and put them above or alongside clips from Subway Surfer or Temple Run or people making cakes or pushing vodka bottles down flights of stairs to see if they break. We don’t ever have to concentrate long enough to take anything in. We can always be distracted.

It’s true also that longer movies always did exist, especially for vast historical epics like Oppenheimer. Lawrence of Arabia, released in 1962, ran at three hours and 42 minutes originally (it was cut down by both 20 and 35 minutes in later releases before being extended to three hours 48 minutes in 1980). Further back, 1939’s Gone with the Wind was three hours and 44 minutes long. Cleopatra, one of the world’s longest cinematic commercial films ever, was released in 1963 and is three hours and 53 minutes long. But a generation later, longer films made headlines when they tried to embrace the epic-runtime set by their predecessors. James Cameron’s Titanic – three hours 14 minutes – was originally released for home media in a two VHS bundle to account for its length. All of the Harry Potter movies were just under or over three hours long; Chris Columbus and later directors knew that the franchise’s rabid fan-base would watch, no matter the length, and so studios would pay for big, lengthy productions too. Even accounting for the amount of lore creators had to include, the length is frequently cited as one of the flaws of the series, which is now being remade into more easily digestible TV sized chunks.

For Oppenheimer though – Christopher Nolan’s longest movie to date – the length doesn’t seem to be off-putting, even with the fact the movie’s 70mm film reels are clocking in at over 600lbs (I did actually try to see it, but every cinema close enough to make is sold out even today). Perhaps we’re just more used to a modern lengthy epic than we used to be. It made just over $80 million in opening weekend takings, making it the director’s biggest non-Batman box office hit to date. Barbie, for transparency’s sake, did take $150 million in the same weekend. Despite its three hour length people still embraced Barbenheimer weekend, going to one movie and then the other, spending an entire day at the cinema, unfatigued and impressed. Maybe Barbenheimer weekend is not just what we needed to reinvigorate movie theatres, but what we needed to fix our broken attention spans. We have become death, destroyer of short films.'

[knightcallie]

Baldur's Bounties: Language Learning

Language was something everyone shared and learned over their lifetime, and it came in many forms. Even a common language can have hundreds and thousands of different dialects. Weichei didn't realize his was so different than Faerûn's and forgets he wasn't with his typical party.

Weichei didn’t think it would’ve been a problem. He really, really didn’t think it would be one. All the gazes were questioning, his own lips parted and hands wondering how to sign next.

“Is, Is my Elvish that different?” he queried, signed.

Astarion’s gaze squinted, posture leaning towards one side. “Well— It’s still recognizable, but it’s more—” His coiffed head bobbled, trying to place it. “Sing-songy?” he offered, “Definitely different enough that I could notice darling.” His ruby eyes briefly glanced down at the drow’s hands.

Periwinkle eyes glance up briefly, before bobbling in self-affirmation. “Ruben does take on a more musical take on languages,” he recalled, “Kinda. Thought elvish in general sounds more sing-songy? To non-elves at least.”

Shadowheart lifted her chin a bit, brows furrowed a tad. “A bit, but I suppose it depends where you reside.” Her arms folded across her chest. “But you definitely don’t sound like a Faerûn native.”

There’s the unspoken ‘don’t look like one either’, but Wyll does note, “Or perhaps he’s from a part of Faerûn none of us been to. Northeast perhaps?”

The drow shook his head. “Fenim actually,” he replied, “Rubenschaun, Fenim. I’m not too sure how far exactly it is to Faerûn, but…” The forestline, he wondered how Beau was faring. “Far enough.”

It led to lots more questions about where he came from, what’s it like over there, the languages. Gale was particularly eager, and Weichei happily answered. Eres’ blessing burned pleasantly against his skin, patiently passionate. There’s talk about the possibility of using sign and signals in their repertoire, just to make communication easier on the battlefield. But, it will take teaching, and Weichei does have to think about what were the easier signs and signals to teach and see on the battlefield.

Though somehow, it did relax him enough to use a language he only really used for people he’s close to. He was sitting by Halsin, absentmindedly listening to the campfire talk during dinner. At some point, he must’ve reached for his hand, signing what the other’s were talking about, noting each speaker with a specific letter. He doesn’t really notice the eyes, until Lae’zel spoke up.

“What are you signing? Are you hiding something from us?” 

Her harsh voice broke through his lull, his eyes blinking owlishly. Periwinkle eyes looked around, before landing on the large wood elf. A smile was received when it landed on him, before Weichei returned his gaze to the audience. “Uh—”

“Oh, telling some saucy secrets are we?” Astarion grinned, a suggestive smirk on his lips. “Care to share with the class darling?”

“If it helps,” Halsin started, “I do not know this code you’ve been signing on my hand, so I’m afraid there’s no secrets to be had,” he chuckled.

Karlach then piped with a groan, “Don’t tell me this is another thing we gotta learn, I’ve only got so much space to spare in this noggin’!”

At this point, Weichei had returned his hands to his chest before smiling sheepishly. “No, no— This was just something when I was still in my early years in bounty hunting.” He tucked a loc behind his ear. “Having cannons blow off so often does something to your hearing.” He tapped at his earrings, an enchanted gift from his closest friends and family. “Lorm just makes it easier to keep me in the loop or just have less misunderstandings.” He looked off into the distance with an amused look on his face, a memory surfacing. “I’m so glad I was safe from being eaten for dinner.”