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nicsalazar · 23 days ago

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Puddle Panic || Nicole & Xo

TIMING: End of summer LOCATION: WR's State Park. PARTIES:@vanishingreyes & @nicsalazar SUMMARY: Nicole and Xo take a hike to Champlain Falls, but something gets in the way before they reach their destination. WARNINGS: None.

Nicole wasn’t sure what it said about her, having spent most of her days at the park doing her job, that she decided to come around on her day off as well. She supposed it had something to do with the fact that enjoying the beautiful landscape Wicked’s Rest had to offer wasn’t always possible while trying to keep daring visitors from risking their safety over photographs, or arrogant hikers from stepping outside a trail’s marked area. Or when extra hands were needed to handle unusual wildlife from going into campsites.

No, no one could blame her for wanting to enjoy her place of work as much as the tourists did.

Being accompanied by a friend —she hoped Xo considered her one— was also a pleasant surprise. Normally, she would’ve made the hike alone. Her nervous system no doubt would have preferred it. But alone time was all Nicole had had for months, trying to keep a jaguar hidden from the public eye. Some company couldn’t hurt, despite her mind willing to provide several reasons why it could.

She waited for Xo at the head of the trail leading to Champlain Falls. In all the years Nicole worked for the park, she only had visited once. She looked forward to making the trek a second time and fully immerse in the experience. Hopefully, it would bring back some pre-zoo memories that remained elusive.

Her mouth curved into something akin to a smile when she saw the car pull up, Xo stepping out minutes later. ��Hey, uh— how you been? It’s— good to see you,” if it sounded slightly rehearsed, it was because it was. While she waited, Nicole had stressed over the ideal amount of friendly to greet Xo. A curt nod of acknowledgment later, Nicole was ready to be on her way. She hadn’t seen Xo at the gym in a while, and only recently learned about her trip to Ireland. She glanced down, unsure if that was too personal to bring up. Her footfalls echoed in the momentary silence, before she decided what to say. “Ever… been to the falls before?”

—

Nicole had disappeared for a while, and Xóchitl figured that maybe she should’ve done a better job at keeping track of her, at trying to check in. Except that she was far too caught up in her own issues – which was arguably self-centered of her, but she didn’t really care about that part of it. She was allowed to think about herself, and she often did think about herself and only herself, but that was better than some alternatives.

They were going to go hiking at Champlain Falls today. It was a nice day and a good excuse to try out some of her new hiking gear. Blue-colored, which wasn’t such a big jump, but was still something. Maybe Nicole would notice. Xóchitl found a strange pull to get Nicole’s approval, to gain any and all approval she could, which was terribly childish, but Ireland had done that to her, hadn’t it? Besides, she liked approval on any normal day, so it was probably nothing.

Certainly nothing that she needed to analyze right now as she drove in her car towards the trailhead. She arrived faster than she’d expected to and put her car into park, the music and air conditioning cutting off sharply as she did so.

“Good to see you too.” She sighed. “I’ve been… fine. Trying to stay busy, you know? How have you been?” Xóchitl wanted to turn the conversation away from her as quickly as she could. Something was bound to come up at some point during the hike, but she preferred to not start with that. “A couple times, I think? I don’t know. Though I’ll go on a limb and say you’ve probably been here a lot. Am I right?”

—

Something was different about Xo since they last met. It was difficult for Nicole to tell, with her tendency to keep her eyes anywhere but on someone’s face and therefore missing key details. She couldn’t pinpoint what it was, or— if it was anything at all. Could be a case of her own nerves making this meeting feel strange. Different. She gave Xo a sideway glance, observing a moment longer. A haircut? No. Didn’t think so. Maybe it was how Xo carried herself. That confidence she used to exude that would always intimidate Nicole felt less certain this time around. It was welcome, if she was being honest. It felt familiar, easier to bond over.

Besides her own elucubrations. Nicole couldn’t figure out why Xo looked different, other than she did. As the hike went on there was a chance she would understand why. She added the weary sigh to the list of things that didn’t seem right about Xo, but was content with keeping her proof a secret until she was certain this wasn’t all happening in her head. She wondered why Xo needed to stay busy. Whenever Nicole had those ideas was because something was bothering her. When she had the need to push something else out of her mind for a few hours. Was Xo plagued by thoughts she didn’t want or felt ready to deal with? “Thank you,” she said abruptly, remembering she forgot to reply to the pleasantry. Nicole was happy Xo agreed to meet up, especially if she wasn’t feeling so great. She hoped to be a good distraction.

Anxiety got a hold of her again, because Nicole didn’t believe she was the right person to go for distraction. She couldn’t offer endless commentary, or advice, should Xo decide to divulge if something was on her mind. She couldn’t make people laugh either, not that it was a resource she possessed in the first place. So what good could she be to Xo? In the off-chance Xo was one of those people who preferred silence to process their issues then— she could help with that.

“Been good,” not a lie, per se. Compared to how she used to be, this was good. She pressed her lips into a tight smile, forcing the corners to pull upward. It wasn’t an ideal smile, but it wasn’t fake either. “It’s uh— I like how the park looks during summer,” nothing wrong with some weather talk right? It was low hanging fruit, but it usually did the trick to break the ice for her. “Maybe not so much when I have to use the ugly summer uniform,” she added, eyebrows knitting together. No, perhaps summer wasn’t so great after all.

Unlike the rest of her, her steps were secure as she marched along the path, taking on the view, listening to the birds chirp, and the gentle wind rustle leaves and branches. “Ah— Not— Really. Not as a tourist,” it was a fair assumption from Xo. Nicole lived and breathed this State Park, but leisure time was rarely there. “Once… First year I started working here,” before the jaguar decided to rip more time away from her life. She was lucky she was even allowed back on her job after disappearing for so long.

The falls might look different from what she remembered. The park didn’t intervene much, if only to preserve what was already there, but she assumed they would find a few extra signs here and there. “Brought stuff in case we jump in the pools? Supposed to be real warm today,” she glanced at Xo, first noticing how nice the blue on her hikewear was, then the backpack she carried.

—

“What? Oh – yeah.” Thank you was a normal response to what she’d said. Normal was important and normal was what she needed right now. Nicole liked normal, right? She had to. Most people did. Xóchitl sometimes wondered if maybe she needed normal at least a bit more than most. Which was a selfish thought, perhaps, but one that she welcomed. She liked when things were normal, and her world was becoming less normal by the moment and so she wanted more normal than usual. “Summer, and fall, but we’ll see if fall stays warm.” It felt false to talk about the weather so much, but that was normal and so if she wanted normal, then wasn’t she supposed to want this?

“How long have you been working here?” More normal. She didn’t like how stiff her voice felt, how unlike herself she felt, but it was fine. It would have to be, and that was that. It was good to see Nicole, and she could hold onto that feeling above all else. Cling to all the positives instead of digging to find the negatives wherever she could manage. It felt fake, and she also felt like Nicole was the exact sort of person who’d be able to tell just how much she was faking it, but thankfully, Nicole was also the sort of person who was awkward enough to not bring it up. Hopefully.

It was a bit cruel to count on that personality trait, but Xóchitl had to work with what she had.

Sometimes she didn’t mind being cruel. It led to fewer deep connections, though she’d never been wholly successful at the whole overall cruelty thing. She’d tried it in middle school and high school, more than once, but it hadn’t fit well with who she was. (Something that her moms would’ve no doubt been proud of, but something she’d been mad at herself about for a good while).

“Yeah, figured why not?” It was good to be prepared, and since there was so much in her life that she was completely unable to be prepared about, it was good to take preparation wherever she could get it. “That’s all good, right?”

—

Hoping for the weather to stay warm was as unlikely as hoping for the town to remain uneventful for a week. Not happening. Didn’t mean Nicole wasn’t going to bask in every last ray of the sun could offer before temperatures dipped down to unbearable. She didn’t comment on it, as it was more of a throwaway comment. Weather talk could only last them for so long. Anxiety pulsed in her chest, wondering what else she could rely on, to keep Xo… distracted.

She didn’t need to find the following topic, as the other woman provided an ideal segue. Nicole wasn’t sure if Xo sounded like that in the past. Hard to tell after their previous hangouts, when she was too exhausted from working out to pick up on anything but the words straight from Xo’s mouth. It was always possible that Xo was a more anxious person outside of the gym. She understood that feeling too well. “I’ve uh— worked here since I was—” she blew a tense breath, estimating time in her mind. “Twenty-two,” it sounded hesitant, despite being a fact. Almost a decade since she arrived to Wicked’s Rest. Time was unrelenting. She stayed quiet for a moment, before realizing she could supply more about her past. As long as she didn’t touch any emotional landmines, it should be fine. “Started doing seasonal gigs while I—” she glanced down at her feet, the path, the foliage, ignoring the heat in her cheeks. “While I got my GED. After that, it was easy to stay around.” A good amount of luck was involved too, as the State Park was known for its suspiciously short staff. She supposed that was a grim subject to approach with a woman who seemed slightly uncomfortable, however.

When Xo confirmed her plan to swim once they reached the falls, Nicole nodded, strolling along. “All good, it’s a great spot for swimming,” and the sun above them would not give them any kind of break. She tugged at the strap of her backpack, in hopes of releasing some of her nervous energy, as she held off from going over the items she packed for the occasion for the hundredth time.

The path toward the falls and caves was a special one. Not only the brown and green of dirt and trees were a sight to see, but the creeks and streams that ran along, the wildlife sprinkled past the marked areas, the birds chirping overhead. Yeah, Nicole should’ve made this journey more than once. But she was finally doing it again. Had to count for something. She glanced to her side as the terrain became particularly swampy ahead, giving Xo a look of approval. “Careful not to slip. Good thing you got the right footwear. Saw a woman hiking in heels not long ago”.

—

“Seems like a good place to work while you get your GED.” Xóchitl hoped she didn’t sound overly patronizing. She knew that she ran the risk of that, but thankfully Nicole didn’t know her entire education history, and so hopefully that would do her some favors. Or even a favor. She wasn’t picky. She just wasn’t keen on Nicole thinking that she wanted to be better than everybody else.

That might have been true for a while, years ago, but it wasn’t the case anymore. It wasn’t who she wanted to be anymore, and so it wasn’t who she would be. She’d gotten remarkably good at being just who she wanted, at least on the surface. Underneath, she was still often a tangled mess of emotions and people, but she could be who she wanted to be seen as on the surface. She’d gotten good at not being ‘that girl who saw her best friend get murdered’ because once she’d moved to Boston, even when she’d only been eight, she’d refused to let that define her. Even though it did. Even though it did define nearly every action that she took.

“That’s impressive.” It also showed that Nicole was dedicated and likely far more patient than Xóchitl could ever even halfway claim to be.

“Will you swim with me?” She did her best to offer a comforting smile, despite her nerves. Despite both her nerves and the anxious energy that absolutely radiated from Nicole. It was sort of nice to be able to focus on somebody else’s worries. It didn’t even halfway begin to push hers away, but it gave her something else to focus on. Which, for the moment, was good enough.

The whole park was beautiful, and it gave her an extra sense of calm. Or at least the facsimile of one, and she drank it in eagerly. “Heels? Seriously? I mean, I like heels and all, but they’re shit footwear for nature.”

—

“It was…It is,” A small smile reached Nicole’s lips in response. There was no judgment in Xo’s words, nor in her expression, allowing Nicole to sink a little into the false nostalgia of the past. By no means was arriving in town an easy time. She was fragmented, picking up the pieces of the pain and bloodshed inflicted on her family, starting anew in a place she didn’t know, with almost no tools to get by. No, it wasn’t easy. It was pretty fucking miserable. But there was some luck on her side, too. Luck was likely the only way she managed to survive. The seasonal gig fell on her lap, offered by an old man taking pity on her. The GED was a suggestion by one of the senior rangers in the park. She didn’t want to think where she would be if she didn’t listen. If she decided to stick to her pity party. She forced the curve of her mouth higher when Xo complimented her. Ignoring the muddy paths her mind intended to push her to. There were enough of those in front of her to focus on.

“Yeah—” she huffed, paying for her distraction by almost stepping into a puddle. She caught herself on time, jumping to the dry path to her left. “Yeah… Would be a waste to come around and not… I’ll—uh, pick the best pool,” she nodded at Xo’s question. The trek toward the falls alone would leave them in need of a place to freshen up. She brushed a few strands of hair out of her face, swatting a bug away. Xo’s reaction to her comment made her chuckle. It was nice to be on the same page about that. “Heels,” she confirmed, eyebrows furrowing as she recalled the unpleasant encounter. “She was… strange. Obsessed with bones. Not the first visitor to try something like that, though. Won’t be the last—” she trailed off. Unfortunately, she doubted it would be the weirdest either. Despite choosing the quickest, most common path to the falls, it appeared as if the weather wasn’t on their side. The farther they trudged, the more it looked like it rained recently. With that came the risks. Puddles everywhere. Once again, Nicole was relieved knowing Xo had appropriate footwear. Even expert hikers would find themselves slipping on the floorboards. Hard to control that. She moved ahead, not thinking anything strange about the log in the middle of the path, acting as a bridge for the sizable puddle in the middle. She didn’t want to step on it, but there was no better way to get across without getting soaked. She did what common sense dictated. But common sense in Wicked’s Rest didn’t mean shit. The moment her boot touched the log, it splashed, dipping in a manner normal logs didn’t. Not dipping, dissolving as it scurried away. It wasn’t a log. Not a fucking log, she processed, right as she sank to her knees into a deceptively deep puddle, Xo trailing behind. “Shit”. The water shimmered, revealing the movement of what she’d stepped on. Something underneath circled them, something that had chances of being harmless, but Nicole didn’t want to wait to find out. “Let’s get the fuck out before—” before what? She didn’t want to know.

—

“I trust you.” Which wasn’t any grand sort of declaration, just one she figured Nicole could use. “It also doesn’t have to be the best. Happy to work with passable.” It wasn’t quite a joke, and she wasn’t entirely sure how to make something (anything) seem lighthearted. But Xóchitl made it a point to regret very little. Regret took up too much time and she had had enough time taken up in her life already. “Heels and obsessed with bones?” It was a strange pair of descriptors, and yet she could think of someone who fit that. It also made her think about what descriptors for her would be, if someone who didn’t know her name was trying to describe her to someone else. Hot and always Googling things on her phone? She didn’t know – and she wasn’t sure how much she wanted to focus on not knowing.

The pathway was getting wetter – and Xóchitl couldn’t remember if it had recently rained, but it certainly looked like it had. She continued to follow Nicole, watching as the other woman stepped onto a log and then quickly slipping into a giant puddle. Which, thanks to not entirely paying full attention to what she was doing, resulted in Xóchitl also ending up in the buddle. There were ripples in the puddle and a part of her froze. “What the hell kind of fish live up here?” It had to be fish. Fish in a weird lake that appeared out of nowhere.

—

Nicole surprised herself, realizing she would’ve rather complained about some weird, bone obsessed woman than sink into muddy waters infested by— she had no fucking clue what. By a small margin, but nonetheless. Unfortunately, she had no choice in the matter. She clenched her jaw, trying to climb out of the unnaturally deep puddle, eyes wide as she studied the movement in the water. “Fish—” she shook her head, hearing Xo’s question. Didn’t look like no fucking fish moving down there. How much was she able to share with Xo, though? There was that… weird grass they stepped on once, though she didn’t exactly investigate further after the fact. Nor she tried checking up on the other once it happened. Felt ill-advised to worry Xo, on the off chance there was a rational explanation for this puddle magically sinking them. “Maybe not— not fish… Uh, maybe a reptile… or something, better not scare it. Stay still.” If the monster felt like it was in danger, then it would be the end of them.

But if they jumped out of the puddle they had to be fast. Propel themselves with enough impulse to hold onto a branch or a trunk for leverage. And be fucking sure to be out of the creature's way, and its potentially sharp teeth. Her clothes, however, clung to her as if it was a second skin. No, getting out wouldn’t be an easy feat. Her gaze lowered to the water, following the ripples on the surface, and the shadows underneath. She didn’t think there was a way to climb fast enough and remain unscathed. It was likely going to get messy on way or the other, but if she could manage to keep Xo unharmed, that would be— should be enough. It was her fault they were stuck in a puddle, wasn’t it? The shape of a snout broke through, followed by gleaming, hungry eyes that locked on them. “Fucking hell,” Nicole whispered, freezing as the creature's full form slid into view. The crocodile—or whatever the hell it was— was covered in slime and moss. And sure enough, had way too many fucking legs to classify as normal.

The creature sized them, and with a flick of its tail, it lunged toward them. Feline reflexes came in handy, and Nicole ducked the beast’s dangerous attack, missing its jaws by mere inches. Something sharp tore through her jacket. The force of the crocodile’s body surging forward managed to knock her over, falling backward with a loud splash. She scrambled back up frantically, blood running cold when she caught a glimpse of the crocodile taking down Xo.

—

“Okay.” She was usually chattier, but there was something about all of this, all right now, that gave her pause. Which was something that she’d seen happen to herself more than once. Hell, more than a dozen times. In those who she’d worked with too. Which, in all logical sense, meant that she should know what to expect, but she also refused to know. Just like so many other times. “Reptile makes more sense, I guess. I’ll stay still.” Even though she wanted to tug at her clothes. They were soaked through and were pretty much the opposite of a fun situation, but stripping down in front of her friend was probably not the route to go. She had already done that though, one of the last times they’d hung out. So maybe it wouldn’t be such a bad route to go. Except… no. She had to focus.

Whatever this thing was had come into view and it was covered in moss and she had to be dehydrated because it looked like it had more than the usual amount of legs that animals like this had.

The water was becoming bitingly cold and the thing was lunging at her and pushed her back into the water and she kicked at it. Maybe, in this one case, heels in nature would’ve been the smarter choice. “Hey!” Xóchitl called out to Nicole. “Uh –” except then the thing pushed her back under water and she resurfaced, teeth chattering. “Help!”

—

Nicole couldn’t gauge Xo’s reaction to the supernatural beast, gaze too fixed on the creature closing in on her friend. It was much stronger than its size dictated. Xo must’ve been a strong woman, no? She was at the gym just as much if not more than Nicole was, yet when the crocodile lunged toward her, it managed to drag her down with almost no resistance. Nicole only prayed Xo would be able to keep the snout away from her body long enough for her to find a way to get them out of trouble.

The solution wasn’t in the water, that much Nicole gathered. Her eyes darted frantically around the forest, hoping to find anything to stop the monster. Getting out of the puddle was imperative, its water dropping down to a freezing temperature. Xo seemed to be suffering the effects as well, teeth chattering as she resurfaced— thankfully, intact. “Hold on!” Nicole leapt toward the muddy edge of the puddle, slippery hands grasping at dirt and rocks, until they found a knotted root to hold onto. She got it. But there was the hard part to get through. Her clothes were so heavy, she couldn’t— no, she had to. She panted, grunting as she hauled herself out of the water, wasting all the strength she had in her. She returned to the dry forest doing a pathetic impression of a wet cat. Chest heaving, clothes dripping onto the ground.

There were more pressing concerns than how miserable she looked, however. She picked up a rock, tossing it at the crocodile, hoping it was distracting enough for the beast to get the fuck away from Xo. It only bounced on its head, and flopped back into the water. Fuck. She scrambled to her knees, looking at the planks on the boardwalk. Counting on the Park’s budget being too fucking short to make some of the much needed reparations, Nicole spotted a few rotten planks. Right. No one should be able to tell. She ripped half of one with relative ease, rushing back to the edge of the puddle. She hit the crocodile in the head, but her intention wasn’t to knock the thing. She only needed it to loosen its grip on Xo. And when the animal was affronted by the violence, Nicole jabbed the plank into its jaws, pushing away from Xo. “Can you climb out?” she moved the plank to one hand, making her movements clumsier, but offering Xo something to hold onto.

—

Nicole had to be strong, since she worked out and had a job that probably had to require some significant level of strength. Not that Xóchitl knew all too well what was involved in working in a national park, but she could at least guess. Which meant that it was extremely handy to have her around given… whatever the hell was happening. The thing’s snout tried to come at her and Xóchitl gave it a hard smack with the back of her hand – not sure if it was doing much at all, but the creature seemed to stop for a moment, at least, letting her scoot back in the water a few inches.

That only worked for a matter of moments, before the creature leapt back at her and tried, once again, to attack. Xóchitl muttered to herself, something vaguely about the fact that it wasn’t fair for something like this to happen when she finally decided to go out and enjoy nature. Have a healthy hobby. All this was proving was that staying at home or going to bars was the way to go. Which she wasn’t sure she entirely disagreed with, but she also very much understood that she needed to have hobbies outside of those.

Nicole clearly was built for this, though, because soon enough the croco-whatever had been whacked on the head and had said stick jammed into its mouth. “Uh.” She shook her head, readjusting to focus on Nicole’s question. “I think so?” It would certainly take effort, but she did her best to move herself, shivering and all, towards where her friend was standing. There was something about the water that made her clothes feel even heavier than she would’ve expected, which was so not it. “I’m working on it!” She called out to Nicole. “I might need a bit of a boost – or pull – or, you know, something.” The croco-whatever would only stay away for so long, as proven by its previous actions.

—

Nicole stabbed the monster with the pointy end of the wooden plank two more times, pushing its face to the side and preventing it from snapping its jaw in Xo’s direction. All while keeping her hand free for Xo to grab. But the more she poked the creature, the more she angered it. The plank cracked into dozens of smaller pieces as the teeth sank into it. Feral eyes set on Nicole, and though speaking to animals wasn’t one of her abilities, she could almost read the intention to make Xo the next target in its glistening gaze.

Xo struggled to get out, and Nicole had to assume the crocodile was responsible for freezing the water. She slapped her hand against her soaked pants, bending closer to the edge of the puddle. She couldn’t risk slipping, not when they were so close to being free of danger. “C’mon, take it. My hand. Before—” the two seconds the crocodile spent distracted by the plank of wood were over, and its yellow gaze was fixed again on the woman in the puddle. Its scaly body twisted forward, snarling and splashing with all its extra limbs. She didn’t waste another second, crouching by the edge, into the mud and wrapped a hand around Xo’s wrist. The other hand, she used to throw another rock at the creature. She dug her knees into the ground, bracing herself as she helped pull Xo up. It was almost impossible to tug even an inch, Xo’s drenched clothes weighing down each attempt.

Her muscles screamed from the exertion, but neither of them could give up. Not with a fucking crocodile ready for a meal. Slowly —or at least it felt like, thanks to the adrenaline coursing through her— they seemed to find their footing. In reality, it couldn’t have been more than a second or two that it took to help Xo out of the water. Otherwise, the monster would’ve ripped the woman’s leg off, and the sound of their ragged breaths would’ve turned into something much more grim. Nicole fell backward, not yet feeling safe, and scrambled further away from the puddle. “Shit,” she breathed out, shooting Xo a panicked look. “You okay?” Unfortunately, it wasn’t something they could stay pondering on for too long. Nicole believed the puddle was completely real, and as such, the creature could jump out at any moment. “We should run”.

—

This was all too much, but she also knew that she didn’t intend to die, nor did she intend to let Nicole die (even if she wasn’t sure what level of friends they were, she did know that she wasn’t a sadist and didn’t enjoy the idea of anybody she even somewhat cared about dying).

“Okay – I’ll –” she cut herself off, coughing up a lot of cold water. She couldn’t quite figure out how the water – that much water, at least – had even wound up in her lungs but if she was going to get out of this, she’d have a much easier time of it if she wasn’t also having an issue with breathing. Which always made her tense up more to begin with. Even if it wasn’t the same way Mackenzie had been suffocated to death, it did bring up memories all the same. Which she also couldn’t focus on, because a panic attack in the freezing water with some thing that was trying to drown her didn’t turn out well in any version of the story.

“Got it.” She grabbed onto Nicole’s hand, doing her best not to let their hands slip apart, though with how sopping wet they both were, that was a miracle effort in and of itself. Xóchitl found it easier to breathe the second she was back on more solid ground, almost collapsing onto Nicole. “Yeah – I – fine.” She didn’t have time to think about how okay or not okay she was. “We should run. I’m soaked. We’re – both of us are.” That would make running undoubtedly more difficult.

—

The looming threat of the crocodile snapping its jaws at them again wasn’t one Nicole could ignore. Trembling from head to toe, chill creeping into her bones the longer she stayed in her drenched clothes, she rushed as much as she could to get on her feet. It took combining her efforts with Xo, leaning into one another to manage it. Her body wanted to give out. She could only imagine how much worse Xo felt. Regardless of how exhausted they both were, she kept going, grabbing onto Xo’s wrist as they shuffled further into the trees. There were potential threats there as well, Nicole couldn’t forget about it. Nothing that would submerge them into a fucking puddle, though. And in that moment, that was her priority.

Her heartbeat pounded in her ears, adrenaline refusing to subside, but when they pulled away from the trail, Nicole managed to take a full breath of air. Fuck. That was close. She shivered, stupid clothes feeling more uncomfortable with each passing moment. She finally let go of the strong grip she had on Xo’s wrist, body too busy struggling for survival, mind too occupied processing the events to worry about the amount of touching involved between them. Or overanalyzing whether it was appropriate for their level of friendship. She supposed there was no point in questioning her closeness to Xo after this, though. A mutant crocodile coming for them had a way of bringing two people together.

Strangely, she wasn’t in the mood for swimming in the pool anymore. Nicole was certain her desire to visit the falls had vanished the moment she fell into the puddle. Some other time, perhaps. Through a different path. If Xo wasn’t scarred for life, she could invite her over again. What they both needed now was warmth, however. “Change of plans. Let’s uh, we go back to the closest station,” she suggested, eyeing Xo with concern. Falling into silence, she reoriented herself. From the— they ran south from the puddle. Best shot at shelter was one of the east campsites. Had to be a ten-minute walk at least, no? A walk that would no doubt be uncomfortable in wet clothes. When the alternative would’ve been ending up at the bottom of a puddle, she would take the discomfort any day. “C’mon. We’ll be safe there”. She nodded toward the barely visible cabin, and pushed forward. Good thing she’d brought a change of clothes.

#w: puddle panic #w #wickedswriting #w: xo #tysm emily

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idolatrybarbie · 11 months ago

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series masterlist

pairing: marcus pike x alex dozie (fem!OC)

word count & rating: 4.5k | mature

summary: alex dozie, everyone.

tags: angst, takes place in 2014, complicated relationships, background american politics, some emotional violence/potentially triggering relationship dynamics.

notes: @atinylittlepain | extra! extra! read all about it: marcus pike, past, present and future pathetibabe.

Spring. The temperature outside is mild. Rain showers take over the usual Lake Champlain gloom. It’s still sad outside, but at least there’s a little bit more substance to it. The sky is crying, and Alex can appreciate that. For how much it rains, she wonders if it is grieving.

Something—someone shifts in bed beside her. Opening her eyes slowly, it takes a minute for her eyes to focus. When an arm snakes around Alex’s waist, she doesn’t need to see to know who it is.

“Reg,” she croaks. Reg like register, or Reggie—that’s his name.

“Lex,” he whispers back. His breath tickles the shell of her ear.

“How long have you been up?”

“Hmm, ‘bout an hour,” Reggie tells her.

“And what time is it now?” Alex asks.

“Almost 6:30.”

Alex freezes, blood running cold. She twists out of Reggie’s grip, sitting up in bed to give him the harshest glare she can muster this early. Except she doesn’t have the time, so she only squints at him in vague annoyance before throwing the covers off her long legs.

“I’m supposed to be up at five,” she sighs. “Why didn’t you wake me?”

“You looked so peaceful,” Reggie smiles. It forces her to smile too, despite herself.

“Peaceful or not, I’ve got a seven o’clock class.”

Alex scurries into the bathroom, unwrapping the silk scarf around her head. Her straightened hair falls to her shoulders, choppy bangs bleached and dyed black at the ends. The rest of her hair shines with the bathroom light, a bright silver blonde reflecting everything thrown at it. She rubs a makeup wipe over her face, forgoing a decent cleanse in the crunch of time.

A shortened version of her usual morning routine goes as follows: deodorant, followed by a spritz of perfume; pinning her hair back as she smears on the slightest bit of makeup; throwing together an ensemble of decent-looking clothes while she scratches at her enamel with a toothbrush.

She doesn’t have time for contacts, grabbing her glasses from the nightstand. Reggie has done his due diligence in making her a coffee, black with two sugars. He hands Alex a bright blue travel mug and her brown leather carryall. It really does carry all—notes, pens, loose tabs of chewing gum. You name it, she’s got it.

Alex kisses him on the cheek, leaving a red-brown pair of lips on his skin.

“I’m going to kill you,” she says, all play.

“You’re gonna need a lawyer for that.”

“Point there. Know any good ones?” Alex asks. She smiles again, because Reggie makes it so easy, and says, “I’ll see you later.”

The walk from Cushing Hall to the law department’s cozy little building is a cool fifteen minutes. The rain stops as she makes her way, maneuvering around puddles in her short-heeled boots. Quaint boxy buildings surround her, the campus built like a brick maze between manicured lawns and concrete sidewalks. She can almost see a glint of sunlight reflecting against the clear windows as she passes them by.

It’d been a big swing choosing school out here; Vermont was far from the dusty heat of New Mexico and the warm arms of her mother. She’d turned down the acceptance to a community college right outside her hometown of Rio Rancho. It was a good school, Mrs. Dozie always told her. A Nigerian immigrant herself, she only wanted to see Alex succeed. It was good, sure—but Alex wanted better. The best. To be it, have it, live it; all of the above. Just over 100 thousand dollars in combined loans and scholarships later, she was set to graduate magna cum laude in a few short months.

The door opens at her pull, the floors still bright and sparkling from a lack of early morning foot traffic. A tangle of suits sit in the cushy lounge chairs nearby, hanging around. Business majors, maybe, waiting for their first lecture of the day. A check of her watch—a knockoff Calvin Klein her mother gifted her at the ceremony for Rio Rancho High’s class of 2010—tells Alex she is already late for her own.

She doesn’t have the time to notice the rain starting to pelt against the windows again, a light tingle in her ears as Alex speeds up with each step. When she reaches Rutherford Hall, she slips into room 104 with practiced silence. Alex takes a seat at the very back of the lecture hall, pulling a notebook and one pen from her varied collection, trying to catch up. When Professor Cartier takes a moment to switch between presentation slides, she pops a piece of gum in her mouth to chew.

Just a few more months, she thinks.

Professor Cartier calls on her to stay back after class ends. “Miss Dozie, if I could have a minute?” he asks at the front of the classroom.

Alex nods with a weak pull of her lips, swiping her things into her bag. She clops down the many steps to his podium with an iron grip on the leather handle. Standing tall in his impeccably tailored suits, Cartier was the only Black faculty member in the criminal justice department. Of all her professors, he is the man Alex holds in the highest regard. It’s not easy to get where he is.

They both start to speak at the same time.

“Please, go ahead,” Cartier says.

“I’m sorry for showing up late, I still got all of the content and I promise, it won’t ha—”

“Miss Dozie,” he says, stopping her. “Alex. You’re fine.”

The breath trapped in her lungs drains from her slowly. He’s never called her Alex, not in all her four years. “Alright then.”

“I wanted to congratulate you,” the professor says.

“Well, thank you,” Alex says. “…for what exactly?”

“The scholars' brunch,” Cartier says it like it’s an obvious thing.

“I’m confused.”

“Don’t tell me they didn’t tell you?” At Alex’s silence, Cartier shakes his head with the suck of his teeth. It makes Alex chuckle lightly through her nose. Her mother has the same habit. “For your noted academic excellence, you’ve been invited to a scholars’ brunch with the mayor of Burlington.”

“Oh,” Alex says. She tries to look grateful, putting on a show of holding her hand up and clenching it in a fist of faux excitement. “Yay.”

“I know. Sounds pretty fuckin’ boring, huh?” Professor Cartier asks.

Alex laughs, a little uneasy, a little endeared. “I wasn’t going to say anything.”

“Well, it’s a great opportunity, anyway. It’s less invitation and more expectation if you know what I mean.”

“I do,” Alex nods. “I can grit and bear a few tea sandwiches with Rob Yorkdale, Professor Cartier.”

“I’m happy to hear it.”

“When is it?”

“This afternoon.”

Fantastic. They must schedule it in the middle of a school day, on a Monday. Not like she has anything better to do! Oh, these hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt? Pfft, it’s nothing Mr. Yorkdale. Let’s talk about you, huh?

“You look more than thrilled,” Cartier says.

Alex schools her grimace into a neutral mask, raising her brows. Expectation, not invitation. “Do you think Professor Harris will mind me missing her ethics class?” she asks.

"I don’t think she’d even notice you weren’t there.”

Three and a half hours later, Alex wanders into the administration office. Dean Wesley is ready to greet her with a smile, parroting all the standard questions and statements lobbed at outgoing seniors: what a pleasure Alex is to have on campus and how much she will be missed, how Wesley does hope that she comes back for a visit indeed. By the time they make it to an unfamiliar conference room, it feels like the dean is practically pushing her out the door already.

The doors open together, revealing the other attendees of this lovely little gathering. Alex recognizes a few of them: Aditi Patel, second in their class this year, setting the curve for the past three. Rowan Michael's posh attitude and smug smirk disappear as Dean Wesley leads Alex inside the room, dated floral wallpaper and the lingering scent of dust surrounding them.

“Dean Wesley,” Aditi steps forward first, shaking hands with the older man as she gives him a polite, toothless smile.

Rowan stands from his seat, nodding as he spits out a clipped, “Sir,” with a nod in the dean’s direction. The others take their turns spewing polite greetings.

“It’s so nice to have you all here,” Wesley says.

“Sure,” Alex says. “Getting the gang together to celebrate our successes.” The sarcasm is lost on Dean Wesley, but Rowan shoots her a glare.

Alex has less of an issue with Aditi than Rowan, but she’s not exactly trading friendship charms with her either. Whatever. Weeks from now, they’ll never see each other again. She might as well have her fun.

It’s a few minutes of stilted small talk that Alex simply observes before the doors open again. Mr. Yorkdale waltzes through them, everyone standing at attention with his presence. Behind him, a couple of young men trail in. The guys from earlier, Alex’s hypothesized business kids. Her opinion of them as a collective goes up marginally; being the cronies of one of the wealthiest public servants in New England didn’t exactly notch them very high.

“Mayor Yorkdale!” Dean Wesley greets him.

The two men shake hands as the student crowd utters hellos in a polite cacophony. Alex’s attention slides over to the man standing just to Yorkdale’s left. Tall-ish with short dark hair, he is perfectly clean-shaven. He holds himself in a hunch, like he’s waiting for what’s next, grinding the heel of his shoe into the ground. Maybe it’s a nervous habit. When they make eye contact, the man smiles at her. She blinks, looking away again. Reggie flashes before her eyes, probably stealing her Netflix to watch Community before his 2:30 class.

“I’m so excited to meet and greet all of you,” Mayor Yorkdale says, addressing the scholars of this brunch. “Now, let’s eat!”

Like they were waiting in the wings, a flurry of cater-waiters have everyone seated with a plate at his command. In the organized chaos of everything, Mr. Cue Ball sits next to Alex. She doesn’t say anything, unfolding a pristine linen napkin and spreading it across her lap. Catering trays are wheeled into the large space, lining the walls before a short man and a tall woman make their way around the long table. Everyone is served with a choice of ham and cheese omelet or eggs Florentine, a slice of rye toast slathered with farm-fresh butter, and a tidy fruit cup of state-grown peaches and pears.

Cue Ball gets the omelet while Alex opts for the eggs Florentine…not that she’s paying him any mind. The mayor is talking, boasting about his accomplishments with almost seven years in office behind him. It will be another two years before the election; Alex won’t be living here, but if she were, she wouldn’t vote for him. She certainly didn’t the last time.

“So how is it?” someone asks. The question seems to come from thin air. Alex looks around for the owner of the voice, looking straight ahead and meeting Rowan’s sneer. Turning her head left, fork still in her mouth, she meets the smile of the mayor’s aide.

“I’m sorry?” she asks.

“How is it? The food,” he says.

“Oh, um—fine, I guess.” The yolk is globby against her tongue, sliding down her throat before Alex speaks again. “Sorry, do I know you?”

“No,” the aide shakes his head. “I’m Marcus.” Now she does.

“Alex,” she offers.

“So, Alex,” Marcus starts, keeping his voice a little lower as to not interrupt Yorkdale’s chatter, “what’s it like at Champlain?”

Are they really doing this? “Look, Marcus? I’m here to eat with the mayor. I’d like to get back to that.”

Marcus’ brows raise a little at her reaction. Alex can almost see the gears in his head turning. “My bad. Sorry,” he says. No smart line, no bitchy comment. An apology.

The simplicity of it, the genuine sentiment dripping from just three words has her cringing inside. He’s trying to be nice. “It’s good,” she says, popping a diced peach into her mouth with her fork.

“Pardon?”

“You asked what it’s like? It’s good,” Alex says. “Simple. Hard, but no one comes here without looking for a challenge.”

“Doesn’t seem like it would be difficult for you,” Marcus says.

“Hard isn’t difficult,” she shakes her head. Curious, she adds, “Why do you say that?”

“You seem up for it. You don’t strike me as the typical audience for the halls of an institution like this.”

Hm. Of course. Well, he isn’t wrong; Alex can count the number of Black staff and students at Champlain College on one hand. Still, the insinuation has her turning away again, tongue poking into her cheek. She ignores him for the rest of the meal, only politely passing the glass pitcher of orange juice to Marcus when it comes to their stretch of the table. He tries to hedge in a few more leading comments, but Alex stays silent. By the time they serve strawberry cream tarts, he’s caught the hint.

Breakfast finishes unceremoniously. The mayor shakes every student’s hand on the way out, his clammy palm engulfing Alex’s as she feigns a smile at him. As she walks out of the conference room, she can’t help but feel that the whole thing was an utter waste of time. Worst of all, she’s still hungry. The eggs were light, the toast dry. The fruit and tart might as well have been made of air.

The dining hall is packed at peak lunch hour. Alex makes her way into the line for the international foods station, hooking a white plastic tray under her arm. Dining hall staff are busying themselves all over the kitchen, one woman hauling ass to bring another tray of Alfredo tomato linguini to the service counter. When Alex gets closer to the front of the line, she greets them.

“Ladies, how are we doing today?” she asks easily.

“Runnin’ around like chickens without our heads, sweetheart. You know the deal,” Marlene says. “What can I get for you?”

“I’ll take some of that pasta if you don’t mind,” Alex says.

“Of course.” She nods, slopping a generous helping onto a porcelain plate. “Here you go.”

“Had breakfast with the dean and the mayor.”

“Ooh, hoity-toity. Fitting right in with that high society there, right hon?” another woman—Linda—asks.

“If only they knew how to cook.”

Marlene and Linda titter with laughter, smiling at her. This is the best part of her day. These women have kept her alive and fed for the past four years, keeping Alex sane on her worst days with their cooking. She thinks she’ll miss them the most.

Thank god, there is an empty table at the very edge of the dining hall. It’s just Alex and an empty chair across from her, away from the rest of the student body in a tight corner against the building’s far wall. She expects that someone will come along soon enough, asking to take the vacant chair to slide up next to their table. Spare parts, spare friendships that Alex hasn’t developed here. Sure, she’s got acquaintances—classmates she much prefers if she must take a pick of the litter. No one Alex feels a real affinity to.

Well, Reggie. She slides her palm-sized phone from the front pocket of her bag, thumbs flying over the smooth ridges of its buttons to send him a text.

What are you up to right now?

She places the phone on the table beside her tray, waiting for a buzz in response.

Surprisingly, it’s not some freshman with parents richer than God who takes the chair from her. No one takes it at all. The guy from earlier, what was his name? Marcus. He rests his right hand over the sturdy wood back of it, catching Alex’s attention.

“Anyone sitting here?” he asks.

Marcus doesn’t wait for her to answer, sliding the chair out to take a seat. Alex watches him carefully. He sets his tray down across from hers, chicken fingers and French fries in a pile on his plate.

He’s got a bad case of overconfidence. Sincere apology be damned, working at the mayor’s office has clearly gone to this guy’s head. She doesn’t say a word, watching him tear open a ketchup packet and squeeze its contents out over the starchy fries. When Marcus is done, he licks any remnants of the red sauce from his fingers.

Alex tries not to linger too long on the sight of his fingers in his mouth, focusing on the task at hand. He’s watching her watch him. He glances to the side, then cranes his neck to look behind him. Then he quirks his lip up, no teeth.

“Do I have something on my face?” Marcus asks.

At this, Alex smiles. She likes to play with her food first.

“Nope,” she says, popping the P. “You’re just fine.”

She twirls linguini noodles around the tines of her fork methodically, attention never breaking from the man in front of her. He shoves a few fries in his mouth at once. She only notices now that the sleeves of his pressed blue dress shirt have been rolled to the elbow, the expanse of his forearm bare. It draws Alex’s eyes to the rest of him. His shoulders are broad under the expensive linen, an extra button newly undone to expose a peak of his collarbone.

Her phone buzzes beside her. Alex ignores it.

“So, Marcus?”

“Hmm?”

“What’s it like working at the mayor’s office?”

Mouth half-full, he starts to answer the question. “It’s…good,” he says. With one word, he’s fallen right into her trap.

“Really?” Alex asks, taking another bite of pasta. She waits until she is finished. Chew. Swallow. Speak. “You don’t strike me as the typical audience for the halls of an institution like that.”

As she speaks, Alex watches ketchup drip off the end of a French fry already halfway inside Marcus’ mouth. It disappears behind the table, presumably landing on his pants by the way he groans.

“Shit,” he mutters. “I’m sorry, what did you say? Oh.” His brain seems to only be catching up now, realizing she’s taken his words from him.

“You know what, never mind,” Alex says. She picks up her phone and tosses it onto her tray, then grabs her bag.

“Where are you going?” Marcus asks.

“You can have the table.”

“Where’re you going to eat?”

This man and his fucking questions. “It doesn’t really matter to you, does it?” she asks.

“Why do you think that? I mean, better here than the bathroom.”

Their conversations seem to be circling each other. It’s frustrating.

Alex sets her tray back down a little too hard, the plate rattling against her baby blue Nokia. She sits again, crossing one leg over the other.

“Guys like you walk around places like this and get applauded for showing up. I would say I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but you made it clear that you have—the same thing is not happening for people like me,” Alex says. “You pop out on Earth with a silver spoon up your ass just like the rest of them, but because you deigned to notice that I might be a little out of place here, we’re supposed to be…what? Friends?”

“I didn’t say—”

“You didn’t have to. It came as the expectation. Look, I’m sure you’re great and everything, but I’m really not interested in getting to know some jag who saw The Color Purple off-Broadway and thinks he can hang with the Black chick.”

“You’re wrong,” he says.

“Excuse me?”

“The silver spoon, you’re wrong. I mean sure, it’s there, but I wasn’t born with it. Certainly not a pleasure that it’s present,” Marcus says.

“Am I supposed to feel bad?” Alex asks.

Marcus chuckles, a harsh gust of air through his nose as his chest shakes lightly. He puts a chicken finger in his mouth. Chews. Swallows. Speaks. “You’re funny, you know that?”

“Hilarious,” she deadpans.

“I don’t know why they’ve got you here. Scholars’ brunch? Your talent’s wasted,” he continues. “We should get you a stand-up special.”

“We?”

“Yeah. A tight fifteen, you know, working the crowd. Who doesn’t love a beautiful woman telling jokes?” Marcus asks. Alex’s face grows hot, eyes glued to her pasta as he continues to talk. “You’re right. I can’t expect you to feel bad. Kind of a dick move of me. I don’t know you and you don’t know me.”

“Oh, I know you,” Alex says, sitting up a little straighter.

“Yeah?”

“Yeah,” she confirms.

“Okay,” he says, pointing at Alex with a fry between his fingers. “So who am I?”

“Rich, for starters, but anyone who has eyes can tell you that. Harry Rosen button-down, authentic leather Prada lace-ups, but your pants… Banana Republic? My guess is you ran buck wild in Neiman Marcus and went a little over budget. That’s a 200-dollar haircut that you’ve let grow out so you know you’re getting the money’s worth, and maybe you’re hoping you can style it into bangs in a few weeks once it dips past your ears,” Alex says. “You didn’t want to come here today, and you don’t like working for the mayor, because the truth is…” She leans in closer now, voice barely above a whisper. “Deep down, you’re about as out of place here as I am.”

Alex sits back up again, playing with the blush pasta on her plate. “You’re just inauthentic.” When Marcus puts his other hand on top of the table, she sees it: the yellow-gold wedding band that circles his ring finger. And married, she thinks. Of course.

She finishes her food quickly, standing from her seat. Out of politeness—not that there’s much left—Alex offers him her hand to shake. Surprisingly, he takes it.

“Lovely to meet you, Alex…?”

“Dozie. Alex Dozie,” she says.

“Marcus Pike.” He drops her hand, and she walks away.

Very pushy, very proud, very married. Alex recites these things in her head as she drops off her plate and tray, and again some more as she leaves the dining hall. She finally checks her phone, a message from Reggie waiting for her.

Class was canceled, schedule is clear…come fill up my time for me?

Alex smiles down at her screen.

It’s another early morning when Alex is called into Professor Cartier’s office. His class has been canceled; an occasion never seen before in his fifteen years teaching at Champlain. When Alex walks past the threshold of his door, she can feel something off. He smiles when he sees her, but it doesn’t quite reach his eyes.

“Miss Dozie, please,” he motions towards the seat across his desk.

Alex pulls it out, quickly sitting. “Professor Cartier, I don’t know what this is about,” she says.

“You’re not in trouble. We’re interviewing all of my female students this week.”

“Oh?” That sounds bad. Or if not bad, whatever the opposite of good is.

“It has been brought to my attention that my teaching assistant, Reginald Juneau, has been having a sexual relationship with one of my undergrads.”

“Okay…”

“I’m not asking if it was you,” the professor says. “But if you know anything, or there’s anything you’d like to tell me, this is a safe space.”

Alex’s heart pounds beneath her ribs. Professor Cartier…she can’t lie to this man. He’s a beacon in the department. She wants to be him one day; an accomplished Doctor of Law, a man who fought for what was right before coming here to help people like her learn to do it all over again.

She can’t lie, but she has to. The fallout if she came clean would be unimaginable. Alex didn’t come this far to have it all come crashing down like this. She certainly can’t do that to Reggie.

“I’m sorry, Professor. I don’t know anything.” It comes out easy, a lie that’s oil-slick the way it pours from her mouth.

“I figured you’d say that,” Cartier sighs. “You’re not the type to…” Whatever else he was going to say gets caught up in a vague handwave. The professor stands from his chair, ready to see her out.

“What’s going to happen to him?” Alex asks suddenly. “To Re—your TA?”

“Well, he’s under temporary suspension. Whatever results of the internal affairs investigation will determine whether he must leave.”

“But?”

Cartier shakes his head. “Even if nothing does turn up, the school isn’t in the habit of keeping on potentially…problematic staff members. Liability,” he explains.

“Oh, right,” Alex nods.

Her body goes numb, limbs operating automatically as she makes her way back to her apartment. How could this have happened? Did they get too comfortable? That can’t be it. Outside the confines of this room, they were never together. Nothing more to go off of other than pure speculation. Still, someone had. And now Reggie was going to lose his job.

Harsh knocks at the door pull her out of a fugue state. The sky is much darker now than it was the last time she checked. Alex makes sure to draw the curtains shut before she answers the door. Behind it is Reggie, of course it’s him. He looks mad. No—he looks angry.

“The fuck did you do, huh?” he asks, shouldering his way into the apartment.

Alex closes the door. “Reg—”

“Don’t start, okay? I know what you did, I just want to hear you say it.”

“I didn’t do anything,” Alex says.

“Yeah, huh? Then what’s this?”

He grips the back of her neck with a firm hand, pulling her close to a wrinkled piece of paper between his fingers. Through the tears, she can read the words Letter of Termination. It’s been signed by Dean Wesley.

“I didn’t do anything!” she says again. “I promise, Reg, I would never. I-I—”

“If you say you love me, so help me God,” Reggie spits.

“I would never do that to you. To us. Come on, Reggie, think about it for two seconds.”

“I’ve been thinking about it all day!” he yells. “You know what this’ll do to me, Lex? Ruin me. This will ruin me. All that work down the fuckin’ drain, and for what? A nice piece of ass.”

“Get out,” Alex says.

“What?”

“Get. Out. Of my apartment. Right now, Reggie,” she demands. “You think I’m guilty? Fine! Sure, I did it. Whatever you need to believe. Just get the fuck out of my place. I never want to see you again.”

Reggie huffs. “Can do, Lex,” he says, making for the door. He pulls it open, stopping at the last second. “Have a nice fuckin’ life.”

The door falls shut with a slam. Alex drops slowly to the floor, clutching at her chest as sobs wrack her body. Shoulders shaking, she huddles into a tight ball. Now, she’s alone. Alex is well and truly alone.

#marcus pike #marcus pike x f!oc #marcus pike fanfiction #pedro pascal fanfiction #pedrostories #the mentalist fanfiction #fic: ever since we met #fic: meant to be great

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howdy-cowpoke · 2 months ago

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TIMING: Before ‘Venomous: Pt. III’ LOCATION: Champlain Falls PARTIES: Monty (@howdy-cowpoke) & Teagan (@closingwaters) SUMMARY: Philip gets loose and runs into the woods, and while trying to track him down, Monty encounters Teagan. CONTENT WARNINGS: n/a

—

Philip had gotten loose from the paddock, and after setting Dallas to work repairing the damaged fence, Monty took it upon himself to follow after the animal on horseback, Pomelo leading the way as the cattle dog tracked the goat’s scent. He tried not to let the anxiety consume him as they rode out into the forest, tried not to think about how he couldn’t stand to lose yet another animal.

Monty and his animals tracked Philip all the way to the state park. Growing more worried the longer they went without finding the creature, he tried to keep calm and trust in their abilities to locate him. Still, it gnawed at him hungrily as they walked their own path, and it wasn’t until they had nearly come upon the pool of water that Monty realized he heard a waterfall. It was a hot day, and Habanero and Pomelo probably needed a drink. As luck would have it, the goat’s trail was taking them right to the water’s edge, where Monty stopped to let the pair have a well-earned drink while he dismounted and decided to take a look around the area.

It was beautiful, to say the least, and he wished he could fully appreciate it. Still, as he circled the water, eyes scanning the area for any more signs of a lost goat, he felt his worry growing. Pausing, hands on his hips, the cowboy gave a loud whistle. Hopefully if Philip was nearby, he would come toward the familiar sound.

—

The sun warmed the nix’s skin as she lay in the water, letting the small current wade her any which way. It was how Teagan had spent most days as of late, trying her best to live by a new, honorable code that allowed for a gray undertone to help her navigate her more…violent instincts. There were absolutely still a few drownings here and there. After all, Teagan was still a nix. The water called for it and there was a balance to keep within the deep.

So when she heard what she thought were the sound of footsteps on the shore, she sank into the water. Her tail swished left and right, pushing her toward land to take her next victim. She pounced from the lake, teeth and claws at the ready, and it would have surely been a bloody scene had Teagan not realized it was fur and not flesh she was about to cut into.

“Ow!” She exclaimed, landing on her shoulder after twisting her body away at the last moment. The goat let out a terrified bleat, running off just as she heard a whistle. “Hm…” With a groan, Teagan watched which way the goat began to saunter away to, realizing someone was likely looking for it if that whistle was any indication. “Oi!” Her amphibious form disappeared as she called out, “Think your babe is this way!”

—

The voice was unexpected, causing Monty to jump. A hand flew to his hat to keep it atop his head as he whirled around toward the sound of it, blinking when he realized he was looking at a woman that seemed to have come from nowhere. “Oh!” he said, surprised to see her. “I—thank you! Uh.” He was a bit flabbergasted, letting his gaze dart in the direction she was indicating before jumping quickly to his horse and dog. “Pomelo!” he called to the canine, who came bounding up to him. He knew that Habanero would stay put until he returned.

“Sorry—you said this way?” he clarified, meeting the woman’s gaze again as he pointed in the direction he thought he remembered her making note of. Pomelo stood at his side, not growling but with ears forward and eyes wide and alert. He wanted to ask who she was and where she’d come from, but really that wasn’t his business. He was just surprised he hadn’t noticed her earlier, was all. Then again… his senses were shit, so maybe that’s all this was.

—

Thank you. Hm…such sweet words curled the corners of Teagan's lips into a victorious grin. She couldn't help it. She had to take the opportunity for an owed debt. “Appreciation accepted.” Her expression turned innocent, the sharpness to her edge dulling out with a slight twinkle in her eye.

“Oh!” The pup ran up to its owner obediently. Huh. Lost animal that typically resides on a farm, a horse, and a trained dog. Teagan reckoned the man had to own land of his own. Specifically a ranch or farm. How many of those were there in Wicked's Rest? What were the chances that he resided on the very farm that Arden had taken a particular hunter to? No, that couldn't be possible. There had to be at least ten. That seemed to be a reasonable amount. To Teagan, at least, but she couldn't really think about it much longer.

“I, uh…” The nix blinked several times and looked in the direction she saw the goat run toward. It was gone. “Well,” Teagan hummed, pointing, “That's where I saw the bugger, but now it's gone. Do you need help?”

—

Oh. Monty’s chest tightened a bit at the peculiar acceptance of his ‘thank you’, and he thought briefly of the fae that had taken his name for a while. This felt similar, but… well, perhaps it would not matter, if he could make a friend out of this person. So he just forced another smile, somewhat comforted by the softening of her expression.

“Um… I suppose, if you would like! I do not want to be a bother,” he assured her. “You can go back to... whatever it was you were doing, if you prefer.” He shifted his weight from one foot to the other, eyeing the brush where Philip had supposedly disappeared to.

Perhaps this was foolish, trusting her. Especially after that display of… he didn’t know what to call it. He really needed to be more careful with his words, but it was a difficult thing to remember. A small part of him figured that it didn’t much matter whatever she would get out of it — he’d already lost everything, this damn goat included, so what else could she take from him?

—

“Hm…” The nix sauntered her way to the spot she last saw the goat, kneeling down to assess. “I'm somewhat of a tracker. It's like a puzzle you gotta solve, but the pieces are scattered in the earth.” Teagan ran her hand over the grass and felt a sliver of a compression in it. When she observed a little further, she noticed they circled around a bit and dragged with a little more pressure. Surely due to the change in speed.

“Was enjoying a good swim, but my interest is piqued with this disappearing goat.” She laughed heartily and began to walk away, waving her arm in a gesture for the man to follow. “He went this way,” Teagan smiled and ruffled her hair to sift away some of the residual water as she walked. It kept her hands busy while she kept focus for any changes in the patterns in the grass.

There was nothing for the first few paces, but then Teagan noticed some disturbed brush. “Aha!” She exclaimed, “We'll find him in no time.” Leading the way, she stepped with confidence, excited to see if there were any new clues “What's your name anyway, mate? I'm Teagan.”

—

Nodding along as she spoke, Monty watched her kneel and inspect the brush, figuring that with her confidence, she could probably out-track him anyway. She stood and started to move off in the direction that Philip had gone, and Monty only took a single step before anxiety washed over him. He looked back at Habanero, realizing he was too afraid to leave the animal alone. So he clicked his tongue, and the horse grunted and walked their way, joining the man and dog on the goat-made trail. Monty took the horse's lead in his hand, huffing a small sigh of relief.

Teagan, she called herself. She led the way and Monty obediently followed, Habanero stepping in time with him while Pomelo snuffled and zigzagged around them, clearly trying to follow the goat's scent.

“I am Monty,” he offered with a weak smile. “Sorry. It is nice to meet you. I… appreciate your help.” His eyes scanned the horizon in front of them, obscured as it was by trees. “This is a new area for him — the goat. Philip. I do not blame him for wanting to explore, but I wish he would have waited for me to get up this morning!”

—

“Nice to meet ya too, lad. Don't get too many strangers out over here, nor goats.” She snorted, “It's a welcomed change of pace, really.” Her Welsh accent lilted off her tongue with a friendly tone. “The last time I came ‘round here, it was a nasty interaction. Hunters…” Teagan paused, realizing she was bordering close to speaking of the supernatural. Not wanting to out herself, she adjusted her course.

“You know? Some of them have no respect for what they're hunting.” Which wasn't a lie, by any means. Both regular hunters and supernatural hunters could be jaded and cruel. Teagan took a deep breath and refocused on the tracks, finding a place where the goat relieved itself. “Ah, we're still on its trail. That's a mighty good sign, I think.” She hummed to herself, continuing to walk.

“Why did it run off anyway? Do you know?”

—

His gaze darted over to her at the mention of hunters, but as she went on, he wondered if he was projecting. She could just mean game hunters, after all — the following statement didn’t really push it one way or the other. Deciding that it was something to keep in mind, especially with the way she’d taken his thanks earlier, he nodded in agreement. “Some are cruel, yes,” Monty agreed carefully. “Some see it as sport, instead of…” It all felt like sport to someone who had been hunted a number of times now, even if he knew the truth behind the doctrine. “... means to survive.” For humans, he supposed. “But… I have known some who take great care with what they hunt,” he added, thinking of Kaden. “So it goes.”

Smiling when they came upon the droppings, the cowboy shook his head. “Something may have spooked him, I think. We came from Gatlin Fields, recently… moved into the woods. He is not used to all the sounds out here, I think. None of them are.” He gestured at the horse he was leading, who nudged him in the shoulder with his nose.

—

“Eh…I suppose that's true, aye?” She groaned in reluctant agreement. “Nature is to be respected. Have never known…people to know how to do so, but I digress.” Teagan shrugged, following the trail and still listening to Monty as he explained. Gatlin Fields sounded familiar for a number of reasons, but most recently as a place her and Felix discussed.

She could hear the remorse in their voice, and her heart ached at the realization that Monty's move may be related. She attempted to prod for confirmation. “That's a bit of a move.” Arching a brow, Teagan looked back to give Monty a curious expression, pointing in the direction she'd be going next. “Not very far, but big change in environment for the animals. Why the move?”

—

Monty was quiet for a few moments, head down and expression blank. He didn’t owe this stranger any sort of explanation, but she’d been nothing but kind and helpful. He supposed he could be honest about it, to an extent. “There was a fire,” he breathed. “A big one. Everything was destroyed.” Everyone. His gaze lifted again as he stared ahead, listening quietly for the sound of a nearby goat, but knowing that his hearing would never be good enough for anything like that now, not since he’d died. “Philip was one of the few to make it out safely.” To lose him now, in such a stupid way would be… heartbreaking. Monty wasn’t sure how much more loss he could stand.

There was a rustling to their left, one that Monty himself did not hear, but Pomelo sprang into action, diving into the underbrush. Habanero whinnied softly and stamped his hooves, and for a moment, Monty worried that they’d encountered something dangerous… until black Philip came bursting through the ferns with a loud bleat, Pomelo nipping at his back legs to guide him right toward his owner and their guide.

—

Teagan stopped in her tracks, posture stiffening at the mention of a fire. Her stomach dropped and her breathing grew a bit shaky, but she swallowed her anxiety back, feigning shock when she looked back at Monty. “That's…that's awful. I'm sorry.” Felix seemed absolutely positive that they were hated for what happened, so Teagan thought it best to keep her tie to them a secret for the time being.

“Not a fire, but I've lost everything in one go before, too. S'not easy, eh?” The nix furrowed her brows in earnest sympathy, jumping slightly when the goat finally made his entrance. “Coc oen!” Teagan exclaimed with a hand slapping to her chest. “Gave me a fright, you did!” When the initial shock wore off, she started to chuckle, planting her fists to her hips. “Well, looks like you've got your runaway. Sneaky bugger.”

Tucking her hair behind both her ears, Teagan knelt next to the goat and smiled, huffing light laughter through her scrunched nose. “He'll probably think twice before running off again after this. Well…” She shrugged, “I hope he does. If it were me, I wouldn't want a dog nipping me in the arse.”

—

Monty’s brows rose at her sudden stop, swinging his head around to look at her and try to pick apart her reaction. It seemed… he wanted to say strange, but maybe she was just a very empathetic person. And then she spoke of her own loss, and he understood. “Ah… no, it is not. I’m sorry you had to go through something like that, too.” He offered her a small, sad smile before wincing in surprise at the sudden arrival of his goat. As Teagan began to laugh, so did Monty. At least he had this small win.

Reaching for the rope that was attached to Habanero’s saddle on one end, Monty knelt beside Teagan and pulled the looped end of it over the goat’s head, tightening it just enough to keep it from slipping back off before letting it fall slack around Philip’s neck. “I hope you’re right! You’d think Pomelo’s warnings would be enough, but this is one stubborn little pendejo.” Still, he smiled fondly at the goat, brushing some leaves from his back before getting back to his feet. Pomelo stood waiting patiently to begin the trek back, and Monty smiled at Teagan again. “I… appreciate the help,” he said softly. “Sorry for interrupting your swim.”

—

Something felt heavy like a rock in the nix's stomach, and she started to switch her weight from one foot to the other. What was it that Teagan was feeling? Was it guilt? She hadn't done anything wrong to the man. Save for the little bind, but he'd gotten himself into it! A fae's nature was to trick and bind and tend to their lot. That was the design.

So why, Teagan wondered, did she feel so guilty about taking a debt from Monty? She sighed quietly, fiddling with her cuticles until the goat was settled and the man was looking at her again. He had kind eyes. Almost sad and broken. Teagan could see the same wounds in them that she avoided in the mirror everyday, and that was all it took to make her take a step back.

“Oh, don't ya go apologizin’, mate. S'alright.” She smiled brightly, offering a few scratches to the goat's head for a little reprieve. He bleated happily, and Teagan swallowed with an awkward shrug. “You ain't got a single debt with me. Was happy to help. Not easy coming back from losing so much. It's nice to offer kindness.”

—

He was nodding along with what she was saying, sensing the slight shift in her tone as she told him he didn’t owe her a debt. It was in stark contrast to how she’d accepted his thanks earlier, and he was honestly relieved to not owe a favor to this stranger beyond the normal types that polite company acknowledged. He hadn’t been planning on making a fuss about it, but… well, it was one less thing on his plate that he needed to worry about.

“Yes, I… I often find that the world could use some more kindness,” he agreed, gathering Habanero’s reins in his hands. “I am glad it was you I ran into out here looking for this troublemaker.” He nodded at her in a knowing sort of way — it was as close as he could get to another thank you without sounding like a broken record of ‘appreciation’.

Turning and patting the horse’s neck, Monty hooked one boot into his stirrup and heaved himself up onto the large animal, adjusting himself in the saddle and making sure that Philip’s lead was still secure. “We should be getting back. Enjoy the rest of your afternoon, señora. Hopefully this is the last time you catch me trying to find my goat,” he chuckled. With a gesture similar to a lazy salute, Monty nudged Habanero’s sides and urged him to turn on the spot, Pomelo falling into step with Philip and the horse as they made their way back in the direction of the cabin.

#. thread ;#. with ; teagan myrick #. loss ;

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burlingtonvttransportation · 4 months ago

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Important Tips for Moving to Burlington, VT

Burlington, Vermont, a picturesque city nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain, is a vibrant and charming place to call home. Known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and friendly community, Burlington offers a unique blend of urban and rural living. If you're planning to move to Burlington, here are some important tips to make your transition smooth and enjoyable. Additionally, we'll explore transportation options, including the Burlington to Stowe shuttle and car service in Burlington, VT, to help you navigate your new home.

1. Understanding Burlington’s Climate

Burlington experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be long and harsh, with average temperatures in January hovering around 20°F (-6°C). Snowfall is common, so be prepared for snow removal and winter driving conditions. Summers are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures in July around 70°F (21°C). The fall foliage is spectacular, making it a popular time for outdoor activities.

Tip: Invest in high-quality winter clothing and gear. A good pair of snow boots, a heavy-duty coat, gloves, and hats are essential. Also, ensure your vehicle is equipped for winter driving with snow tires and an emergency kit.

2. Finding Housing in Burlington

Burlington offers a variety of housing options, from historic homes in the Hill Section to modern apartments downtown. The South End is known for its artsy vibe and proximity to Lake Champlain, while the Old North End offers more affordable options with a diverse community.

Tip: Start your housing search early, as the rental market can be competitive, especially in the summer months when students return to the University of Vermont. Websites like Zillow, Craigslist, and local real estate agents can be helpful resources.

3. Navigating Transportation

While Burlington is a walkable city, having access to a car can make life more convenient, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. Public transportation is available through Green Mountain Transit, which offers bus services around the city and to neighboring towns.

Tip: Consider using a car service in Burlington, VT, for reliable transportation. Local car services provide comfortable and efficient travel, whether you're heading to the airport, a business meeting, or a night out.

4. Utilizing the Burlington to Stowe Shuttle

Stowe, a popular destination for skiing and outdoor activities, is just a short drive from Burlington. The Burlington to Stowe shuttle is a convenient option for those without a car or who prefer not to drive in winter conditions.

Tip: Check the shuttle schedule in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability. The shuttle provides a hassle-free way to enjoy a day trip or weekend getaway to Stowe’s renowned ski slopes and hiking trails.

5. Embracing the Local Culture

Burlington has a thriving arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and live music venues. The South End Arts District is a hub for creativity, featuring local artists and makers. The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts and dance performances.

Tip: Get involved in the local community by attending events, joining clubs, or volunteering. The Burlington Farmers Market, held year-round, is a great place to meet locals, enjoy fresh produce, and discover handmade goods.

6. Exploring Outdoor Activities

Burlington’s location on Lake Champlain offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular activities in the summer. The Burlington Bike Path, which runs along the waterfront, is perfect for cycling, jogging, or leisurely walks.

Tip: Take advantage of the numerous parks and natural areas around Burlington. Oakledge Park, North Beach, and Red Rocks Park are just a few places where you can enjoy the outdoors and stunning views of the lake.

7. Understanding the Cost of Living

Burlington's cost of living is higher than the national average, particularly in terms of housing and utilities. However, the quality of life, safety, and access to amenities often justify the higher costs.

Tip: Budget accordingly and explore cost-saving measures, such as carpooling, using public transportation, or shopping at local markets and thrift stores. Consider energy-efficient appliances and practices to reduce utility bills.

8. Getting Involved in the Community

Burlington is known for its strong sense of community and civic engagement. Numerous organizations and initiatives focus on sustainability, social justice, and community development.

Tip: Attend city council meetings, participate in local events, and join community organizations to stay informed and get involved. The sense of belonging and contribution will make your transition smoother and more rewarding.

9. Accessing Healthcare and Education

Burlington is home to the University of Vermont Medical Center, providing high-quality healthcare services. The city also has excellent educational institutions, including the University of Vermont and Champlain College.

Tip: Establish a relationship with a local healthcare provider and explore educational opportunities, whether for yourself or your children. The city offers a variety of programs and services to support lifelong learning.

10. Enjoying Local Cuisine

Burlington’s food scene is diverse and vibrant, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and breweries offering a wide range of cuisines. From farm-to-table dining to international flavors, there’s something for everyone.

Tip: Explore the local food scene by visiting popular spots like Church Street Marketplace, where you can find a variety of dining options. Don’t miss out on trying Vermont’s famous maple syrup and cheese.

11. Staying Informed and Connected

Staying informed about local news and events is crucial for new residents. Burlington has several local news outlets, including the Burlington Free Press and Seven Days, that provide comprehensive coverage of local happenings.

Tip: Subscribe to local newspapers, join community social media groups, and sign up for newsletters to stay connected and informed. Engaging with local media will help you integrate into the community and stay updated on important issues and events.

12. Preparing for Emergencies

Burlington is a safe city, but it’s important to be prepared for emergencies. Familiarize yourself with local emergency services, including fire, police, and medical facilities. The city also has resources for natural disasters, such as flooding or severe weather.

Tip: Create an emergency plan for your household, including contact information, meeting points, and essential supplies. Stay informed about local emergency alerts and weather updates.

Conclusion

Moving to Burlington, VT, is an exciting adventure filled with opportunities to explore new landscapes, cultures, and communities. By understanding the local climate, housing market, transportation options, and community resources, you can make a smooth transition and fully enjoy all that Burlington has to offer. Whether you're using the Burlington to Stowe shuttle for a weekend getaway or a car service in Burlington, VT, for your daily commute, you'll find that this vibrant city has something for everyone. Embrace the local culture, get involved in the community, and take advantage of the natural beauty that surrounds you. Welcome to Burlington!

#burlington car service #airport taxi burlington vt #24 hour taxi burlington vt #montreal to burlington vt #vermont to montreal

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asecretvice · 6 months ago

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I was living my life normally and unSupernaturally until yesterday when my mother, soon turning 60, admitted a previously untold dream of visiting New England in the fall before she’s too old. Suddenly I was dropped into a Ratatouille-esque flashback with the words Summer always made Dean restless echoing in my head.

In short, do you have recommendations on where to visit? Is Maple Hills based on a real town? Before relying on influencer guides to plan, I remembered how well you conveyed the ‘vibes’ and wondering if you had any advice. Appreciate this is a very random ask, so no worries if not!

Ahahahahahaha! Sorry-not-sorry for ending your streak of living normally and unSupernaturally ^_^

Well obviously, as I'm sure is already a factor in your mother's untold dream, if you're going to New England in the fall you must see the TREES. They will call you leafers! How spectacular the colors are depends on the weather during late summer and early fall, in my experience. Also it's been several years since I've been out there, and I'm sure climate change has altered the calendar, so to speak. There are maps that indicate when they expect "peak colors" to occur in different latitudes. Those won't come out until closer to time, so keep this in mind.

As for the rest of it...yes, Maple Hills is based on a real town, but as I think it would reveal to much about my brickspace life I hope you understand why I won't say which. However, lovely small towns are dotted all over the place, so you won't be left wanting.

And ye great and terrible gods, PLEASE do not rely on influencers to plan your trip!!! Instead please accept both my regional and basic trip-planning advice.

Also, disclaimer. Although not considered New England, upstate NY is also an option [matt lucas controversial!!! dot gif]. I will therefore mention it from time to time.

STEP ONE: WHAT ARE YOUR INTERESTS?

It is important to prioritize things that appeal to you. Should you use travel to try new things? 100%. But you don't want to overextend yourself either.

Do you like...NATURE and THE OUTDOORS? Congrats, there's lots to see! From the aforementioned gorgeous woodland, to various mountain ranges, picturesque farms and vineyards, and of course the incredible coast, you're bound to find a piece of nature that speaks to you!

Just in it for the visuals? For mountains, the great Appalachians go all the way up to Maine with some subranges and ranges that might not be subranges but I'm not a geologist so bear with me. Look up vistas of the Adirondacks, the Catskills, the Greens, the Whites.

For water, look up the coasts of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. There's also beautiful Lake Champlain shared between New York, Vermont, and Quebec.

I'll be real. You want to drive along windy hills and find a cute little dairy farm with their happy (not so) little free range dairy cows around every corner? Vermont.

The woods? Mostly the northern states: NY, VT, NH, ME. In the latter's Acadia National Park, you can take a trolley through and get immersed in its beauty...and incidentally see where incredibly rich people live deep within or near it, like Stephen King (who is of course always inspired by the area).

Want to actually get all up in it? For a region that's known for its skiing in the winter, you bet it's well known for its hiking opportunities as well. The Appalachian Trial is all over the place, but of course there are plenty of popular day hikes or expert level shit, like Maine's 100 Mile Wilderness. New Hampshire's Mount Washington--I have double-checked this--is indeed the highest peak in the region. If hiking is not your thing but you still want the views, it's a popular tourist destination that provides a train up to the top and things to do and such.

For boating, sailing, what have you, you're definitely gonna find it all up and down the coast, and Lake Champlain, and the Finger Lakes in NY, and--depending on where you're going to fly in and how far you're willing to drive--there's also Niagara Falls, though that is of course stretching the New England mandate (if you're not familiar with the area, it's basically Buffalo, NY, in the western part of the state and abutting Ontario). You can in fact take a ferry service in it called the Maid of the Mist.

As for beaches, you can find all sorts. Sand, rocky, city piers and such. Go Maine if you want fewer people around.

And don't forget that most important of coastal structures, LIGHTHOUSES. Incredibly famous and lovely lighthouses all up and down the coast! Don't neglect them!

What about animals?? Sadly I think you will be too late to go on a boat ride to see our lovely puffin friends, but of course where there's North American woods there are various birds, bears, deer, and butterflies to be seen and admired, so look up what's in the region for your animal of choice. (Seriously, Vladimir Nabokov was studying butterflies all over the place in the area.)

Do you like...FOOD AND WINE? As with every region of this glorious world, you are in for treats!

Are you all about that dairy? My friend, my friend, my friend, verily you cannot skip Vermont. Your local stores and restaurants will have the good shit, but why not go out and find a nice dairy to tour (Vermont cheddar! My kingdom for Vermont cheddar!) or treat yourself by going to the Ben & Jerry's factory in Waterbury, VT.

What about maple syrup? Vermont takes tops in my opinion for this as well, but upstate NY will also have great places you can go if you'd like to try tapping trees yourself, or see how it's made, or simply sample their delicious wares.

Don't forget about fruit! Fall season is orchard season, baby!!! Especially find those apple orchards and enjoy picking your own apples, drinking their apple cider, or eating those delicious fucking cider donuts. Man.

Like some wine? Finger Lakes region of NY is well known for its excellent quality vineyards and wineries.

What about beer? I'll be real. Boston. Boston has flavors of Sam Adams the rest of us can only dream of.

Seafood? Your coastal states again. Maine of course is well known for its lobster. The region for its clams...I'm sure there are many individual states, towns, or stretches of coast that lay claim to the best lobster rolls or clam bakes or clam chowders or how it best prepares their quahogs or other seafood...I am not a seafood person myself so I don't have a particular opinion, but those are some of the dishes to look into if you are!

What about farm fresh in general? You could probably find that most places.

Do you like...CITIES? While Boston is a must-see city, you've also got Providence and Newport RI, Burlington VT, Concord NH, and Portland ME. And yo, don't forget Montreal QC!

They all have a variety of vibes that might suit you, from fancy restaurants to university campuses to lake or ocean coastline. As with any part of New England, layers of North American/United States history abound. Boston especially, though, is expensive. But let's talk about some perks!

In Maine, your biggest city is Portland. Some quirky and local Maine color, like if you're an outdoorsy person maybe you appreciate LL Bean gear; they've got the flagship store there. But it's got great amenities and sits right on the ocean. If you want to be on the Maine coast with maybe fewer people, well, a lot of rich folks have felt the same way. If you want to see some cute towns along with eye-popping mansions, consider Kennebunkport (famous summer home area of the Bush family) or Cape Elizabeth, neither of which are too far from Portland. If you'd like to venture further north, I recommend Bar Harbor; that's the place to go to see Acadia National Park, take a boat out to puffins at certain times of year, go whale watching, a cute small town with (at the time of my having been there) less of the old money contingent.

In New Hampshire, I've mostly driven through but I have seen Concord (its capital), which had some great buildings and some good food. It was fun to walk around and not a bad place to center yourself if you're looking to take trips to various areas, from the ocean to the mountains.

In Vermont, Burlington is right on Lake Champlain, so right away you've got those great water views and activities. It's also fun to walk around Church Street Marketplace, that multi-block pedestrian area rare to find in the US. Also, it's a less than two-hour drive up to Montreal, which is one of the jewels of Canada! (Alas, I have not been myself; I have however discovered that the further north you go, the more likely you are to walk into a place and they'll casually be speaking French. Très cool.)

Connecticut I can't really speak to at all, as I've never been there, but they've got a lot of major college/university areas like Wesleyan, Trinity, and of course Yale.

I haven't been to Rhode Island either, but I hear much more tell from those who have. Providence is said to be great, and between Brown and RISD you're bound to find great museums and fun things to do. Newport is where you want to go for a seaside vacation, the type of place with a lot of history, pretty buildings, and incredible piers for the boating types. It's also an area for the old rich, like the Kennedys. Food scene's supposed to be good, too.

BOSTON. I mean...it's expensive but it's great! I loved walking along the river. But my favorite thing was walking the Freedom Trail! If you're unfamiliar, it's a path marked throughout the city that stops at historically significant places, like the site of the Boston massacre, Paul Revere's house, Old Ironsides, and some graveyards with very, very old dates (relative to the country's founding). But I won't lie, one of my favorite parts was that, walking through one of the neighborhoods it takes you through, it was the only time I heard someone speak with a true Boston accent. Utter delight. Be still, my heart!

Anyway, if you're into the things that colleges and universities can offer you, Harvard and MIT and whatnot will have you more than covered. Plenty of others in the area, like Tufts, Boston College, and so on.

Boston is also home to wonderful museums! Not only the Fine Arts Museum, but the Gardner Museum that was subject to an infamous art theft, the Museum of Science, and all the college museums, etc.

And finally, sports! If you like pro sports, Boston hosts many of the local and New England teams with their own rich histories. The Red Sox, the Patriots, the Celtics, the Bruins.

Elsewhere in Massachusetts, for your obligatory rich person hangout because it's breathtakingly gorgeous: Cape Cod, including the islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, is your area.

Do you like...TOWNS? There are so many.

Massachusetts and New England in general have a wealth of higher learning institutions, many of which are situated in towns of various sizes. In MA alone, you've got Williamstown (Williams College), Amherst (Amherst, Hampshire, UMass), South Hadley (Mount Holyoke), and Northampton (Smith). Vermont's got Middlebury (Middlebury College), Maine's got Brunswick (Bowdoin), New York has Poughkeepsie (Vassar) and Ithaca (Ithaca College and Cornell). And that's just off the top of my head!!! These places are smaller but have to host kids and their families, and they're old, so you get beautiful campuses, quirky eats, and lots of brochures telling you what entertainment is to be had. And because many of these places and some I'm sure I haven't named belong to the colonial colleges, the ivy league, or the seven sisters, they will be thrilled to tell you all about the famous people who graced their halls.

If you want to chill in the Adirondacks in upstate NY, and you want tiny towns, I have a friend who often travels to the Keene area. The pictures she sends me are exquisite. Otherwise I would maybe just find places close to where you're going to headquarter yourself for the trip.

Do you like...HISTORY and HISTORICAL FIGURES? New England! Is! North American and United States history! And more!

First, acknowledge and seek out the First Nations and their tribes. You've got a lot to choose from, such as the Wampanoag, who have their own version of the Thanksgiving story to tell. Off the top of my head, some more are Mohawk, Oneida, Mohican...not sure how far east the Iroquois Confederacy stretched.

This naturally leads into early European colonization, mostly Puritans from England and the Dutch in the early days. This will lead you to the French and Indian War, the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and so on. I won't exhaust the list of what you can see, but if you have any interest in those periods of history, look up what battles or other places intrigue you, and figure out what is on offer in the modern day.

Past the colonial era and more into the later waves of immigration, there are old and famous enclaves of Irish, Italian, French, and Portuguese immigrants. If their cuisine or history are relevant to you, do some research (I've a friend who grew up bilingual with an old dialect of French still spoken in RI). Of more modern waves of immigration I know little.

What about specific figures? I've already mentioned a couple presidential families, but you'll also find a ton of artists and writers from New England, or who made NE their home.

Once again, off the top of my head: Washington Irving ("The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" "Rip Van Winkle"), Emily Dickinson, Robert Frost, Louisa May Alcott, Elizabeth Bishop, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Herman Melville, James Fenimore Cooper, Phillis Wheatley, Anne Bradstreet. Lol, those are just writers. Who else...shit, of course, all the civil rights stuff! Frederick Douglass did a lot of his work in New England; consider also the big names in women's suffrage, like Susan B Anthony. Utica is a good city to think of if you're into the conferences where activists like Douglass were active for both abolition and suffrage; it was also a stop on the Underground Railroad.

I think we've covered all the major categories of interest, so let's move on to step two.

STEP TWO: NARROW IT DOWN

I hope as you read the first section you were writing down ideas, and have since discussed them with your mother. Now you have to consider

--How much time can you take off for the trip? --How much money are you willing to spend? --How much, and how, are you willing to travel during the trip?

For example, maybe you're the type of travelers who are happy to spend one day in a place and move onto the next. Or maybe you find that exhausting, and want to stay in one small area. Or maybe you like to split the difference, pick a headquarters, and go on some day trips.

How far away from New England do you live? If you have to fly, the cheapest flights are likely going to be into a big city; in my experience even flying somewhere like Burlington will cost you a lot extra (again, depending on what airlines you have available and how close you are). The area is served well by trains. Because there are lots of towns and big cities to travel to, you can often find shuttles from the towns (especially college towns) to and from the big cities. Obviously it's the US, so cars work well.

Rank interests. If the leaves in fall rank number one, you should probably cross off the southerly states now. But consider if you also might want lakes, oceans, what type of mountains. What other outdoor activities you might like to do, etc. See if there are more historical places you're interested in connected to one town over another. Get what I mean? If you're only going to be gone for a week, I wouldn't suggest staying at more than two places if you really want to dig your toes in.

Also, between the two of you...or your mom and whomever she's going with, make sure the compromises are good. Each person should have a highly ranked item accessible to them wherever you go.

Now, it's time to get into the real research.

STEP THREE: THE REAL RESEARCH

I kid you not, the first website I go to whenever I'm going somewhere completely new is wikivoyage. If you're unfamiliar, it's the travel subsidiary of wikipedia. It's absolutely fantastic, because it gives you overviews of everything and has current and correct links to associated websites. Like if you've never been to Boston, maybe you don't know the pros and cons of getting there. It'll talk to you about how to get there by car, by plane, by train, by bus, by boat. It'll talk about the different neighborhoods, list local foods you have to try, all the museums and places of interest, etc. It will link you to the appropriate websites for public transportation, and in Boston's case, tips for riding the T. Let's be real, it also discusses areas where it's safest for tourists to be. And it does this for everywhere. Here's the link for the New England wikivoyage page.

This is an excellent first stop because it links to real resources, and gives you a good overview of any of the places you're interested in. Jump straight into that rabbit hole!

That way, if you know you have to fly in, you can look at all the main airports of the region and start working from there.

Also consider where to stay. Wikivoyage will give you an overview of that, but consider associations and things that will help you make sure you're staying at a good place. I know airbnb is the rage, but consider, if you're able, a) inns and such are subject to more laws and regulations meant to protect you and b) they can be so quaint or so grand! Peruse the Historical Hotels of America, or New England Inns and Resorts, both organizations meant to help and support such places, many of which are locally owned and operated.

Also, wikivoyage will give you overviews of the weather of where you're going and at what time of year. Consider accordingly.

STEP FOUR: ONLY PLAN 50% OF YOUR TIME

So. You've decided where you're going to stay and how you're going to get there. Now it's time to narrow down your activities.

Only plan 50% of your time. I am so serious. This will create so much less stress and conflict. Only plan half of each day. Or if there's an activity that is a full day, don't plan anything for the next day if possible. That way there's room to, you know, be late to things because life is as life does, or if something gets canceled you can try the next day, AND it leaves space for things that you won't know you'll want to do until you get there. Like maybe you've never been to the Atlantic before, and once you see it all you'll want to do is sit and stare at it. Which is LEGIT. So leave yourself time to do things like that, hey?

STEP FIVE: FIND A REAL MAP. PLEASE.

Friend, I hear you already. "But I've got gps on my phone/in my car!" Well, I don't care!!!! I know this tech has come a long way since then, but I swear to you when I was in Maine several years ago, we had to rely on my map reading skills for half the trip, on a real map. Accurate, current real maps are getting so much harder to find now, especially if you're not in the target region, but please take the time to source one. You really never know...and ALWAYS use common sense before blindly following gps. Literally have known people who drove straight into lakes in Vermont -_-

Also expect cell service to be spotty in less populated places. Again, having a real map on hand will be peace of mind.

If you are taking any driving trips, plan out your route beforehand. Look up pictures of your destination online, especially streetview, so you know what to look for. Also, popular destinations will have good directions on their own websites.

In my fic when I say there are no roadsides in much of New England? I meant it.

STEP FIVE: PACK LIGHT AND PACK RIGHT

I swear you don't need all that. You pack it, you carry it.

Again, look at the general weather, and then closer to time don't neglect the actual forecast.

If you're going hiking or out on the water, look up the typical weather patterns for that trail or coast. They're often fickle.

Leave room for new books ^_^

STEP SIX: ENJOY

The hard part's already over. Relax and have fun! And then, if you're going along anon, come back a few months hence and tell me all about it!

I hope this has been helpful. Feel free to ask whatever else.

Bon voyage!

#opal replies #living kiss #anonymous #actual new englanders feel free to add on to this post with your own suggestions #it's been several years since i've lived there #now for my own archival purposes:#maine #new hampshire #vermont #new york #massachusetts #rhode island #connecticut

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ask-de-writer · 10 months ago

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SUBMARINE! 1812 an Alternate History

Return to the Master Story Index

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Chapter 6 : KRAKEN

(Part 5 of 5)

De Writer (Glen Ten-Eyck)

5462 words

This document may not be copied or distributed on or to any medium or placed in any mass storage system except by the express written consent of the author.

TUMBLR EXEMPTION

Blog holding members of Tumblr.com may freely reblog this story provided that the title, author and copyright information remain intact, unaltered, and are displayed at the head of the story.

Fan art, stories, music, cosplay and other fan activity is actively encouraged.

~~ ~~ ~~ ~~

“That is a compliment that I will treasure,” I said quietly. “I often wondered if our efforts had actually deceived you, as we crossed swords at a distance. I always wished that our games were unnecessary.”

“You may find it hard to credit,” he replied, “but I too, wished the very same thing, even as I tried to learn your secrets. Now, I fear for my King and country. I am afraid that the game must go on.”

“I know exactly what you mean. We have been fortunate, so far, but I wonder what Britain has in store for us. We both know that this war is necessary. The Continental Congress must be recognized as a nation, and not a mere appendage of King George. We must affirm our right to be free and trade without interference, as any other nation.”

“I must report what I have seen. I will recommend peace in that report. You have both the population and the striking range on us. We have only naval superiority, and this summer, you stripped us of a fourth of that.” He was plainly worried. This was a side of Sir Lional that I had never seen before.

“I know that Uncle Benny would rather have peace. If you could offer a cessation of hostility, combined with our freedom to trade, and the return of all Continental seamen impressed into your navy or in your prisons, I believe that he would accept.”

Sir Lional frowned deeply. “I am sure that you are right. Unfortunately, I cannot do that without approval from the Royal Palace. That will take at least month, and probably more. The mere request could cost me my post. If I do not, it could be the end of England. I will request the terms that you offer.”

A Green Jacket Lt. came up and tugged at my sleeve. “Lt. Tecumsah, you are urgently wanted by the President. Please follow me.” I bowed to Sir Lional and made my way through the crowd, back to the Presidential Mansion.

The throng was now much reduced. As I looked about me, I realized that only the officers of the Maryland, her submariners and a few others were present. Mr. Smollett and some of his most trusted workers, President Arnold and a few important Senators of the War Committee made up the whole balance of the folk in the room. Marines had closed the doors and were keeping out everyone else.

“Gentlemen,” said Mr. Arnold, every inch the President, “We know that England will not stand for what has happened. King George will strike back, hard and soon. I expect that the blow will fall in two places. The islands of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland are both vulnerable and would serve as an invasion base for an attack down the St. Laurence to Lake Champlain or Lake Erie, cutting the nation into unequal halves. The other likely place would be Chesapeake Bay, with the invading army pressing Northwest to link up with the army at the Great Lakes. Such an attack, if successful, would destroy the Nation.” As he gestured over the map, we could see that he was still the general who had out-maneuvered and out-fought the British in the War of Independence.

“I expect the blow to fall just as I have described it, sometime in the early spring, as soon as the weather will allow a determined foe to risk the crossing. They will probably be willing to accept some losses to strike sooner. Our hope lies in the fact that the submarine thrives on rough surface weather. Four and six man picket submarines with new periscopes that can be turned through a wide angle have been made and are yet being made. These are heavily armed boats that can attack swiftly, near to four knots I am told. Mr. Smollet has the details of these craft and those who need the particulars will be informed by him in detail.”

“Do ye want the model now, Sir?” Smollet inquired.

“Indeed I do. Show the gentlemen what you have wrought.”

Smollet gestured and two of his most trusted helpers carried in a half model of the hull of a craft like none that had been seen before. I counted the station lines, as Smollet had taught me so many years ago, in the Academy. This monster was just over 100 feet long! The ragged intakes of breath from around the room told me that others had realized the same thing.

With all of the pride of a new father, Smollet began to point out the features of the new ship. “This is a wholly new idea in warfare. We have christened her the Kraken. As many of you noticed, she is 110 feet long. Her draft, on the surface is 21 feet, 6 inches, when fully laden. As you can see from the model, she is very narrow, with a beam of just 20 feet. The odd looking things on her sides near the bottom are a new design water jet that pushes near half again as hard for the same effort on the walking beam.

“As an aside, all of your old boats are being fitted with the new water jets and the new periscopes, too.

The Kraken can cruise at three and one quarter knots, under water. On the surface, she cruises at just under four knots. She carries three retractable masts, and under sail, with a favorable breeze can do six knots. She can tack only 40 degrees off the wind, with good speed.

She crews eighty men. It is possible to draw air down the center mast while submerged to 30 feet and using the mast as a periscope. Range finding is now done using the fore and aft mast periscopes, giving a triangulation base of 60 feet. A sextant attachment can be fitted to either of the periscopes, allowing navigation while submerged. She carries two attack boats that can launch or dock while the Kraken is fully submerged.

“Newly designed flood-valves can take her from full sail down to periscope depth in under four minutes. Her sails can be managed from inside the hull and can be stowed while under water, if necessary.

“At this time I will not speak of her arms stores, which are considerable. The Kraken’s performance is not speculation. She has just completed her sea trials and is now awaiting the choice of her new captain.” He grinned at the stunned silence that had greeted his laconic announcement. “Are there any questions?”

“I have one,” I stated. “Can the Kraken carry enough stores to reach England while submerged?”

“Yes,” was the terse reply. “With enough left over to return after three weeks in English waters.”

President Arnold said, “The Kraken is even now laying at a secret dock, taking on stores. As soon as her Captain is chosen, she will stand out to sea under secret orders.”

Commodore Marks said with envy, “The command of the Kraken will go to one of you submariners. The choice is being made by representatives of the Senate War Committee. They have all of our logs and records to study. We are awaiting their decision which we will have soon.”

We all looked at each other, dumbfounded.

END OF CHAPTER 6

<==PREVIOUS

Return to the Master Story Index

Return to Science Fiction

#Submarine! 1812 Chap 6 #Part 5 of 5)#Science Fiction #Alternate History #Written by De Writer

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filmnoirfoundation · 1 year ago

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ASK EDDIE - July 20 2023

In case you missed Thursday’s Facebook stream of ASK EDDIE.

FNF prez Eddie Muller responds to film noir fan questions fielded by the Foundation's Director of Communications Anne Hockens. In this episode, we discuss “Pier 23” and its connection to the radio program “Pat Novack for Hire”, staircases in noir, “Quiet Please, Murder”, “Desire Me”, “Stolen Face”, familial noir, the noir credentials of “Sin City”, and more. Eddie weighs in on what the last film noir of the classic era was and the first neo-noir. Plus, we discuss the newly coined phrase homme stupide. We wind up the show with a discussion of teen noir. On the cat front, Charlotte does not appreciate the question about the cutest cat in film noir. Want your question answered in a future episode? We solicit questions from our email subscribers in our monthly newsletters. Sign up here. Everyone who signs up on our email list and contributes $20 or more to the Film Noir Foundation receives the digital version of NOIR CITY Magazine for a year. Donate here.

This week’s questions:

1. Was the Stanford Theater ever considered to host a NOIR CITY Film Festival? What film ranks in your mind as the most important yet to be restored? —Richard

2. My wife Linda enjoys watching film noir. She particularly gets a kick out of the sap who makes poor judgments after succumbing to the “charms” of a femme fatale. She calls such a dope an homme stupide. She was wondering if you have encountered this anywhere else or if she has coined a new noir phrase. —Michael, Post Falls, Idaho

3. I recently watched a 58-minute, B noir programmer titled PIER 23, featuring Hugh Beaumont as Dennis O’Brien. I also saw ROARING CITY another under-an-hour picture with two more cases. Spartan Productions also released a third Beaumont/O’Brien flick, DANGER ZONE - with the same format, all based on stories apparently recycled from old scripts for the radio program PAT NOVACK FOR HIRE. Have either of you seen any of the films or listened to the old Pat Novack program? —Michael, Post Falls, Idaho

4. Do you have any comments or opinions on QUIET PLEASE, MURDER? —Liz

5. Any thoughts on DESIRE ME? —Dennis James from Champlain, NY

6. I don't remember either of you mentioning STOLEN FACE which I think of as a precursor to VERTIGO. Thoughts? —Joe from Suffolk County

7. Don't you think the kitten in THIS GUN FOR HIRE is the cutest cat in film noir? I thought I read that Hitler invited about Veronica Lake and two other beautiful Hollywood starlets to visit his castle in the 1930s and that they went. Have you ever heard of anything like this?—Arlene

8. Is it accurate to claim that the multi-story staircase shot we see so often in Noir is an example of German Expressionism? —Bob, Woodland, CA

9. Have you heard of the Netflix series BABYLON BERLIN? If so, what are your thoughts on it? —Adam from Indiana

10. I consider Frank Miller's SIN CITY and SIN CITY A DAME TO DIE FOR Noir's on steroids. Your opinion, please. —Chris

11. My question concerns one of my favorite films, 1978's FINGERS. Can you think of any other examples of "familial noir," where characters' lives are dictated by their parents or siblings or ancestors? —Kevin, Salt Lake City, UT

12. Do you consider, as some people do, that Welles’ brilliant TOUCH OF EVIL is the last noir film of the classic era? And what do you consider the first “neo noir”?—Bill Stewart of Winnipeg, Manitoba

13. With the 2021 NIGHTMARE ALLEY and now MARLOWE, I wonder if the current picture business is starting to find interest in reviving old noirs. To me, it seems that to cater to a modern, jaded audience, directors have been making these noirs quite violent. There's considerably less censoring -- and more technology -- in filmmaking, but do you envision any noirs being brought back today in a non-R-rated fashion, or would noir have been a more violent genre in the 40's if the production code and technology allowed for that? —Neil

14. I have a question about a small but important detail re: two of my absolute favorite remarks in Film Noir. They are both spoken in the crackling dialogue in OUT OF THE PAST. I have always attributed these great lines to the fine screenwriter, Daniel Mainwaring, who wrote the book and screenplay for this movie. But some time ago, Eddie, I thought I heard you mention that another screenwriter came up with these ‘gems’. If you have the answer, please let me know. —Craig from Carlsbad

15. As I understand, OUT OF THE PAST was released in the UK under its original title: BUILD MY GALLOWS HIGH. I was curious if either of you have ever seen a UK print with that title and if there were any other differences in the UK prints? —Dennis, Champlain, NY.

16. In a recent episode, Eddie said that he hates teenagers and hated being one.

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breelandwalker · 1 year ago

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Sturgeon Moon - August 1, 2023

Buckle up, witches - with two supermoons in store, August is gonna be a wild ride!

Sturgeon Supermoon - August 1, 2023

The Sturgeon Moon is the name given to the first full moon in August. The name comes from the plentiful numbers of sturgeon which appear around this time of year.

Sturgeons are living prehistoric relics, examples of which appear in the fossil record as far back as 200 million years ago. Today, they are endangered due to overfishing, pollution, and habitat loss, but giant sturgeons growing up to 12ft (3.65m) long were once a common sight in the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain in North America.

Other North American Indigenous names for this moon include Flying Up Moon (Cree), Corn Moon (Algonquin and Ojibwe), Harvest Moon (Dakota), Dry Moon (Catawba), Mountain Shadows Moon (Tlingit), and Black Cherries Moon (Assiniboine). European names for this moon include Haymaking Moon (Norse), Lightning Moon (English), and Grain Moon (Anglo-Saxon).

It's also interesting to note that in China, the seventh full moon of the lunar year is called the Hungry Ghost Moon, during which spirits of departed ancestors visit their relatives and homes, and trickster spirits may cause mayhem among the living if not properly appeased. Food offerings and incense are put out for ancestor spirits, families visit gravesites to offer prayers and site maintenance, and festival dances and floating lanterns celebrate the honored dead. In 2023, the Hungry Ghost Moon month will take place from August 16th to September 14th, beginning and ending on the new moons.

Blue Supermoon - August 30, 2023

Blue moons can occur when a full moon appears twice in a calendar month or four times in a season, as opposed to the usual three. August's Blue Supermoon is an example of the former, falling on the night of August 30-31 and peaking around 9:36pm EST.

This blue supermoon is especially notable, since it's the closest that our beloved satellite has been so far this year. The next time the moon will be this close to Earth again will be November 5, 2025, and we won't see another Blue Moon until August 19, 2024.

What Does It Mean For Witches?

Both blue moons and supermoons are particularly advantageous times for spellwork, especially that which involves the fulfillment of goals, desires, and wishes, or the culmination of long-term plans. It's also a great time to start new projects and set new goals for the fall and winter.

Blue moons carry your magical workings forward with a little dash of extra strength and vigor, and may provide extra clarity during divination or reflection. It's also the perfect time for spells related to second chances and abundance, drawing in that much-needed do-over or extra bit of luck or prosperity you've been needing.

What Witchy Things Can We Do?

In August, we harvest one set of crops and sow another, reaping the rewards of our previous efforts and planting the seeds of future success. Look back on the magical workings you've done so far this year - how are they working out? Have any of your spells manifested in especially notable results? Go back and add to your notes, making sure to record anything that worked particularly well.

Evaluate your progress and reflect on what you want to carry forward and what you might need to put on hold or just let go for the time being. If you're partial to divination, a reading may help to provide some additional clarity on your current status, as well as some perspective on the possibilities for the near future.

Celebrate the harvest of grain and corn with your favorite recipes or a summer picnic. This year's August moon falls on Lughnasadh, also called Lammas, and the baking of bread and corn cakes are traditional for this occasion. But don't just limit yourself to corn and wheat! Late summer fruits are also ripe and make a tasty addition to any table.

Set your intentions and your goals for the latter part of the year and start preparing for the autumn and winter. It may seem silly to prepare for the cold when the weather is still blazing hot, but it will be here before you know it. Take time for one more summer beach trip or camping excursion before the hustle and bustle of the fall sets in.

The observation of the blue moon as a magical occasion is a modern addition to witchcraft, but the lack of antiquity doesn't mean there's any shortage of metaphysical potential!

Dive into your stash of blue clothes and accessories for some color magic. (Blue is generally associated with peace, harmony, understanding, clarity, and truth.) Set out a big jug of potable water to catch the light of these double supermoons - it will be great for cleansing, protection, wish-making, and drinkable potion bases later!

All in all, August is supercharged with lunar energy and primed for magical workings, so make your spells count!

Happy Sturgeon Moon, witches! 🌕🐟

Further Reading:

Additional Lunar Calendar posts by Bree NicGarran

Sturgeon Full and Blue Moon: August 2023, The Old Farmer's Almanac.

Sturgeon Moon 2023: The Unique Supermoon Meaning of August, The Peculiar Brunette.

Blue Moon Meaning and Astonishing Spiritual Secrets in 2023, The Peculiar Brunette.

Hungry Ghost Festival, China Travel, June 20 2023.

Sturgeon, Wikipedia Article.

Lughnasadh, Wikipedia Article.

Everyday Moon Magic: Spells & Rituals for Abundant Living, Dorothy Morrison, Llewellyn Publications, 2004.

Image Credit: "Leaping Gulf Sturgeon," by Dawn Witherington

(If you're enjoying my content, please feel free to drop a little something in the tip jar or check out my published works on Amazon or in the Willow Wings Witch Shop. 😊)

#witch community #witchcraft #witchblr #lunar magic #full moon #Sturgeon Moon #moon magic #pagan #lunar calendar

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lukas-dark-miracles · 1 year ago

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Totally Normal Date|| Cassius & Lukas

Location: Champlain Falls

Timing: The Friday after this thread

Parties: Lukas (@lukas-dark-miracles) & Cassius (@singdreamchild)

Summary: Lukas follow his offer up with Cassius to go to Champlain Falls. The two, proceed to have a very not normal date :/

Content warning: The very lightest Drug manipulation tw because Ballybog was NOT welcome as a third wheel on the date and does plop plop one of the two. ( so warning for psychedelics/ seeing things that aren't really there).

It had taken them some hiking to get out to Chaplain Falls, and the two of them had spent it talking about this, that, and the other. It was easy to get lost in conversation. Cassius stopped walking as the waterfall came into view, leaving the vampire with wonder in his eyes as he took it in. He couldn’t help but wish to see it in the daylight. He could only imagine how beautiful and colorful it was. He found himself thinking about that with many things he encountered. That’s why he didn’t bother to really explore when he went out and about. The lack of color reminded him of what he had lost. He shook his head to shake him out of his stupor and jogged to catch up to Lukas. “It’s beautiful,” he marveled with that same wonder in his eyes. In all the years he had lived in Wicked’s Rest, he hadn’t bothered to explore the nature that existed around him. He spent too much time in a day-to-day rut of routine. He smiled to himself, thinking that, just maybe, it was finally time to change that.

“I’m sure it’s better during the day,” Cassius added, walking to the trail that led to the top of the falls. “I can see why you like to revisit this location.” He remarked, hands clasped behind his back as he stepped onto a rock, then another. “Thank you for bringing me out here.” He looked over to Lukas, a bright smile flashing over his features. The blonde had worn more practical clothing for their adventure, a band T-shirt that featured The Cure and a pair of black jeans. Of course, the same platform Doc Martens wore that made him reach the same height as Lukas. His hair was tied up in a messy bun on the top of his head and he had forgone any makeup that he usually wore.

It was easy to talk to Cassius, and Lukas found that fact was still true as he had met him at the beginning of the trail. He hadn’t expected it to be awkward - he was almost by trade good at conversing with almost anyone - but he hadn’t expected it to be natural. With a walk that he must have taken hundreds of times both as a human and now as a vampire he didn’t have to watch the road closely. So when he knew the path was about to clear he smiled lightly seeing the other’s wonder in his eyes before glancing towards the waterfall. “It is. That's why it’s one of my favorite places.”

He moved swiftly behind Cassius letting the other go ahead first to see the falls. At his statement he nodded and said, “I think most people would think so, but I’ve always been rather fond of it at night.” It was almost always quiet then, and it was the type of peace Lukas sought out most of the time. “Careful,” He said as he watched Cassius walking on the rocks although didn’t go to stop him. “And you’re welcome,” He said, slightly stunned by the smile shaking it off. He wasn’t sure how the other seemed to smile with his eyes so easily, but in any case he tried to push it out.

“I can list off some facts if you’d like,” Lukas settled on, slightly lamely on his part. In Spite of himself he had dressed more so for the outdoors electing to wear a simple uncollared t-shirt instead of the ones that felt more natural and not bringing his glasses knowing that he didn’t need them technically. They just felt more natural for him to wear then not. “I did promise to be your guide.”

Cassius stopped climbing to allow himself to marvel at the waterfall, something he didn’t see very much in his long-lived life. Until recently, he had always prioritized staying hidden and blending in over allowing himself to explore the world around him. One of the things he resented Richard for. “You have good taste.” He replied with a soft gaze, a faint smile flirting with the corner of his lips. He sat down beside the waterfall, staring down into the waters below. It was fascinating to gaze upon, and it made him angry that he hadn’t bothered to explore the world around him, even if it meant Richard’s disapproval.

He let out a soft sigh, now angry with himself that he was even thinking about his sire at a time when he was enjoying the company of another. Cassius shook his head slightly as if willing the thoughts to leave his head. “That you did,” he remarked with a playful smile. “Well, if you have any facts about this place, I would certainly love to hear them.” He decided with a nod of his head.

A part of him was afraid to get close to someone again. The same part of him that felt abandoned and alone after Richard left. After Sofie disappeared. The part of him that was afraid to move on and let himself be happy. Despite the loudness of this part of him, he extended his hand forward toward Lukas, beckoning him to join him atop the falls. “Sit with me,” he insisted with a gentle smile, one that was almost private.

Lukas watched as Cassius walked along the rocks near the edge of the fall, happy to see that he seemed to be enjoying it, and not quite sure if he should get closer. As of late, Lukas was weary of it - knowing that there were a lot of potential risks if he let himself be seen. He wasn’t quite the monster he should be, but he wasn’t quite a good man either. Still, like a moth to a flame he couldn’t help but smile back and say, “Glad you approve.”

At the response Lukas thought for a moment and said, “It’s named after Samuel de Champlain who was said to have gone on many adventures around the falls, including caves that shouldn’t be there. It used to fascinate me, although I can’t say I ever saw any of them.”

At the idea of going towards Cassius, Lukas didn’t know if he should. The last person he had gotten close to had ended up making him this way. He had already been a little careless in going on - well this could really only be classified as a date so shocked that the other hadn’t immediately pushed him away. Still, he wasn’t sure either that he was all that powerful to stop himself either and with a smile and light laugh moved to go to the rock the other sat so carefully on. “Alright, but if I trip, I know that there’s a chance I’ll take you down with me,” Lukas said, feeling how slippery the rocks were and trying not to do so. Still unintentionally reaching out for Cassius’s hand as he started to wobble before getting to the rock just wanting to steady himself putting the thought away that he would wind up closer to the other.

Listening with wrapt attention, Cassius watched as Lukas ascended up the slippery rocks, leaning forward a bit in case he started to slip. He thought about the cave system that existed in Wicked’s Rest and shuddered a bit. “Well, let’s hope we don’t go spelunking today.” He piped up, not keen on finding another Volmugger or worse.

There was a part of Cassius that screamed at him. What was he doing? Is he going to allow himself to get close to someone again in the inevitability that they go and vanish on him? His expression turned stormy as he fought himself. He kept doing this to himself. Weak-minded and weak-willed. He balled his hands into tight fists, then relaxed them. He hadn’t expected the pull toward Lukas he had when he had met him, and there was another part of him that begged Cassius to give people a chance. Despite everything, being hurt by someone’s absence meant that there was a true connection there. One that was worth hurting for.

Lukas reached out a hand toward Cassius as he began to lose his balance, and the two sides of himself were warring with one another, one side begging for a chance while the other demanded that he pull away. He took a deep breath, eyes closing for a moment. Then he heard the slipping of Lukas’s feet, and his eyes shot open. He got into a crouched position and took hold of Lukas’s hand. There was no going back now, was there?

No, he had made his decision.

Cassius pulled Lukas close toward him, close enough so their bodies were flush together. The older vampire’s blue eyes looked into Lukas’s, his arm wrapping around the younger vampire to steady him. Then, he gave a soft smile, one that was almost private, before taking a step back to give the other space. “Say the word, and I’ll let you go.” He spoke in a low, almost soft tone.

“Oh no adventures for you? Fair enough,” Lukas commented with a chuckle knowing he wasn’t really up for it himself. Walking on the rocks was enough for him and the former priest could feel himself slipping on the rock, a little annoyed with himself for not being more careful. He was being reckless lately, and he couldn’t afford it. He was trying to build a family that was true, but this wasn’t how it was supposed to be. As he stumbled he suddenly found a hand in his.

It took a moment to realize what had happened, as he was suddenly closer to the older vampire than he ever had been before. If he had a heart beat Lukas was pretty sure it would have skipped shocked. As it stood, he froze for a moment not really taking in the fact that Cassius had wrapped an arm around him, a lot of thoughts suddenly out of his head as he tried to steady his breathing.

He really was beautiful, and Lukas couldn’t help how his eyes widened and he paused. He only seemed to remember to breathe when Cassius stepped back slightly arm still wrapped around him as Lukas’s brain tried to catch up with what was being said and implied. The smile seemed too lovely to be for him, and part of him wanted to step back afraid of the last beautiful person that had turned him into a monster. While he had only wanted to be Lizzie’s friend, this close he wasn’t sure if he wanted to be Cassius’s. Not when he was this close to him. Hell - he didn’t want to be, and he really didn’t know what to do with that information. So, he just looked for a moment, and then realizing that he did need to speak if only for the other’s sake he tried to form words. Clunky and not at all possessing the confidence of a former preacher he whispered, “I don’t want you to let me go. I really don’t. That’s dangerous, Cassius.”

Lukas wondered if that made him monstrous himself. That he was this close to the other and he didn’t know everything about his Sire, what he was supposed to be doing, and what being this close to him meant. He couldn’t seem to form the words instead looking back to Cassius searching for a meaning.

There was hesitation in the younger vampire’s gaze. The hesitation gave Cassius pause. He wanted to say something, but something had him frozen in place. The confidence he had melted away into something far more carnal: fear. He was afraid of this pull that Lukas had on him. He was afraid of what it could mean, what it could cause.

He blinked, and he saw Sofie. He saw her smile. He saw her laugh. Can you move on that quickly? A voice in his mind spoke out. He dropped his hands from Lukas as if he was burned. He blinked again and saw Sofie gazing out the apartment window. The guilt was eating him alive, and suddenly, Lukas wasn’t there with him, nor the rush of the falls. He was alone in a room with no windows or doors. Darkness all-encompassing that made him want to fall to his knees and scream. You deserve to be alone, you know. That same voice called out, whispering into his ear like that of a lover.

He blinked again and was back, Lukas staring at him, and his arms still around him. He opened his mouth to speak, but nothing came out. “I’m sorry, I just.” He stepped back, his feet slipping underneath him, and he nearly fell over. All that confidence and swagger completely vanished. “I find myself so drawn to you that it scares me,” he admitted, eyes lowering as he righted himself. He couldn’t figure out why he was being so ridiculous. He never got like this. Pull yourself together, Hawthorne. He swallowed thickly, an embarrassed smile on his lips. “Suppose I can’t convince you to unsee that, can I?” He then asked, scratching at the back of his neck.

Lukas watched flashes of different emotions go through Cassius’s face and when he saw the fear there he knew it. He knew what hauntedness looked like, both on himself and others. Still, as soon as he saw it he wished he hadn't. Mostly, because he knew that there wasn’t anything he could do for it.

He didn’t know Cassius well enough to know why he seemed haunted, and there was a terrifying thought that the other vampire didn’t know him well enough either. Whatever moment that there had been, was blisteringly brief and Lukas needed to remind himself he was still who he was. A man who had been turned into an undead thing. No matter how beautiful or beloved he wasn’t the resolution to anything. He would make whatever haunted the other vampire worse.

So with a grace he didn’t feel Lukas gave a small smile letting Cassius say what he needed too and knowing himself that it was for the best that the distance was put back in place. The distance he was supposed to have here. Smoothing the raw edges that he had to deal with later, if he ever did. After all, this wasn’t the worst thing and he needed to keep it together.

With a nod Lukas said,“ It’s alright. You rather surprised me yourself.” It wasn’t sad and in fact he put on the best version of himself as he gave a chuckle, his eyes looking back towards the water for a moment wishing that he had his glasses to dull the sight , “Consider it gone, Cassius. Although, if you’ll forgive me I will take the compliment. Not every day someone says they're drawn to me.”

Cassius gave a charming smile to cover up his discomfort, hand dropping back down to his side as he moved to sit beside the waterfall once again, patting the spot next to him for Lukas to join him. “We should get to know each other better,” he insisted after the younger vampire sat beside him. “We know each other’s names and our afflictions but not much else.” He thought for a moment, wondering where to start. “I want to know more about you, your favorite color, what kind of music you listen to.” The roar of the falls made it hard to hear, so Cassius leaned in with his voice raised so Lukas could hear him.

As they sat, Cassius gazed around the scene before them, unaware of the creature that plapped up behind them between listening to Lukas speak and the roar of the falls. A creature that had come a long way from where it belonged. Cassius learned too little too late that this creature was behind him, and as soon as he turned his head, the strange bipedal frog creature spat a foul liquid all over his face.

Cassius squeezed his eyes shut, letting out a yelp of shock, raising his hands to wipe the strange liquid off his face, namely his eyelids. “What the fuck?” He exclaimed as he quickly rose to his feet, switchblade suddenly in hand. It shrieked, then sprayed again, this time hitting Lukas. It began to charge at Cassius, which caused the vampire to grab Lukas by the hand and lead him down the rocks, being careful enough not to slip but going quick enough not to face the creature’s ire once again. “I hate this town sometimes,” the older vampire grumbled as they got back down onto the grass, and he glared up at the creature one last time before assessing Lukas. “Are you alright?” He put his hands on either side of Lukas’s face, and suddenly the world was spinning and warping around him. It was as if Lukas was the only thing that wasn’t morphing around him. “Whoa.” He muttered, unable to tear his hands off of the other, as if they were glued there.

“Silly little vampire man!” A high-pitched voice called out, causing him to blink his eyes rapidly as his gaze fixed upon a pink leopard licking itself. “Silly little man with a silly little crush!” It sing-songed. “Do you…” he blinked, hands finally dropping to his sides. “Do you see that?”

Lukas calmed down a tich as Cassius did, going back into a routine that he felt a little more comfortable with sitting next to the other and admiring the view for a moment. “ To be fair most people don’t know much about me,” Lukas said with a light smile, his eyes drifting back to Cassius without his permission. “I like dark blues and purples and bright white. Night time colors,” Lukas said with a bit of a nod expecting an answer of the other. “I’m afraid I don’t know the music question very well but I am rather fond of Rhythm and Blues.”

Lukas was calming down before there was a creature. Without thinking his eyes widened and he moved to avoid whatever the liquid was that was being thrown at the two of them. Luckily as Cassius pulled him away Lukas felt bits hitting his clothing. Still, he was now concerned about what that was - and as soon as he could moved to look at the other vampire to make sure he was okay. He was surprised again as Cassius was quicker putting his hands on Lukas’s face to check him. It would have made Lukas melt a little if he wasn’t worried.

“I’m fine - hey - Cassius we should wash your face in the water, “Lukas said concerned now as he seemed to be woozy. Moving to catch the other, if he started to tumble he asked concerned, “ What?” Turning to follow Cassius’s gaze and finding nothing but the dark and the falls, “There’s nothing - Cassius are you alright? Let’s wash your face at least. Okay? Hey, look at me please, Kochanie.” The words falling out of his mouth as he tried to calm the other and get his attention, using words he would soothing most people. Although, admittedly he though his ears might have been warm if they could have been.

Cassius blinked at Lukas as if he were registering his words, but they weren’t sticking, not really. “He called you honey!” The same high-pitched voice rang out, causing him to shift his gaze back to the pink leopard. Admittedly, Cassius spoke some Polish. From almost two centuries of being with a Polish man, one picks up a thing or two along the way. Mostly the swears and sweet nothings, but Polish all the same. He could converse with a toddler but not much past that. “Hej, znam to słowo!” The older vampire exclaimed in an excitable voice. With his inhibitions loose, he found that any filter he once had was out the window.

“I think we should…” Cassius screwed his face up, suddenly lost in thought with what they should do instead of washing his face off. He gasped, then placed his hands on both of Lukas’s shoulders. “I think we should go for a swim!” Cassius began to nod his head, breaking out into a grin until he started laughing as if it was the most hilarious suggestion he could have come up with. For once, he felt loose. He felt free! He wanted to run around and…

He set his sights on the long-forgotten pink leopard. He wanted to hunt. The vampire’s happy exterior changed to one of a hunter, eyes changing from their normal blue to crimson. “Die, kitty.” He exclaimed, then lunged for the phantom pink cat, and was shocked when the creature suddenly vanished. His eyes returned to their blue as he swirled around, confused. “Well, that’s strange!” He exclaimed, unable to stop himself from bursting out into a fit of giggles.

“I’ve fully fucking lost it,” Cassius decided aloud. “I mean, I feel great. I haven’t felt this great since 1981.” He ran a hand through his hair, shaking his head. “Fuck Richard.” He spat, kicking at the dirt before making for the treeline, the waterfall and prospect of swimming long forgotten. “I mean, you ever think about the fact that we’re vampires because someone else said so?” He shook his head, letting out a theatrical scoff. “I was supposed to die! I was dying!” He threw his hands up in the air, then let out another string of laughter. “And he decided he couldn’t bloody live without me.” The normally subdued accent was thick, almost cockney. “Stupid arsehole.” He crossed his arms over his chest, searching the treeline for the pink kitty.

Lukas was at a bit of a loss trying to keep up with the older vampire who seemed to be suffering from something having to do with the creature. Although admittedly he was distracted on the fact that Cassius seemed to also know what he called him. That was a freak out for later - perhaps when he wasn’t trying to talk some sense.

“Sorry - I didn’t mean to overstep - I don’t think that’s wise,” Lukas managed to stutter out again a little too close to the other again. He was very tempted to just go with what Cassius wanted to do which was why he was relieved when he saw him move away from the falls now realizing he probably couldn’t get him to wash his face.

He watched as Cassius - pounced? While he tried to keep the panic off of his face he was fairly sure there was no cat anywhere and was very close to just pulling Cassius back to somehow calm the older vampire. Before he could though the other seemed to switch to another subject, one that he wasn’t quite sure he wanted to share with Lukas.

“I don’t think you’ve lost it - although given everything I think you might be high,” Lukas commented coming slightly closer and gauging what the other vampire was about to do. When he started for the tree line, Lukas followed suit noticing how agitated the other was getting. He wasn’t quite sure who Richard was until - the dots connecting Lukas said softly, “Yes I think about it a lot why I’m only like this because - Lizzie wanted me to be her companion.”

His hands trembled a little saying her name, but he focused instead on the man who seemed to becoming more British by the second. If he wasn’t slightly worried about the state of him, Lukas might have chuckled but instead he said, “Sorry to hear you were dying. I would still be alive if I hadn’t been. Can you look at me for a moment, Cassius? I really should get whatever that is off your skin before you start telling me all your secrets. It wouldn’t be very fair at all.” Without much thought he pulled off the collared shirt, thankful his undershirt seemed unmarked and thinking at least some of the shirt might help.

“Can I please help you?” Lukas said, tilting his head hoping that the other wouldn’t bolt for the trees. He was trying to keep some distance, but at this point he really should help him before they both got lost in the park. “If not, take this and see if you can get some off.”

As he continued to look for the elusive cat, Cassius couldn’t help but be stuck on Richard. Dammit, why did he have to think about him of all people? He shook his head, ridding himself of the thoughts. The action of shaking his head caused the world to start and spin. He threw his hands out to his sides to balance himself, suddenly more worried for his safety than being excited about everything that was going on. “A plaything at someone else’s expense,” he murmured to himself. The idea of this Lizzie person simply wanting a companion, were their lives really that silly in the grand scheme of things?

He blinked again, the world tilting sideways, and he found himself falling to the ground. “I hate this,” he groaned as he covered his face with his hands. “Yes, wash it off.” He begged, scrambling to his knees and blinking again. The world finally stopped spinning. His eyes searched the treeline for something, anything to keep himself grounded to reality. But then, he saw it. A familiar face that struck feelings of fear, hope, anger, and anguish all at the same time.

Richard. He was just standing there. “Please tell me he’s not there,” Cassius spoke in a hoarse whisper. He pointed to the hallucination, a tall, pale man with cropped brown hair and striking blue eyes. He shook his head again, tearing his gaze away from the man he once knew to be his safe space, who was now the cause of his every fear. “Please, I need to get it off.” Cassius was frantic now, scrambling to his feet to get to the edge of the water, splashing the cool water onto his face, desperately hoping that it would ease his troubles.

He turned his attention to where his sire was, and he was gone. He blinked once. Then again. Still, he didn’t reappear. Cassius began to nod his head slowly, letting out a sigh of relief. “Siiiiilly little vampire man.” That sing-song voice called again, causing him to search the treeline for the infernal creature once more. “This is awful, what the hell was that thing that sprayed that vile whatever it was?”

“Something like that, yes,” Lukas said softly, mostly to himself. He often felt like he was pulled out of a life to join Her, and while he had at this point in his unlife dealt with the pain it caused, there were still bits of him that resented the change. While he couldn’t say he had loved everything about the Church, he had been making a difference. He had a place, and a story he should have gotten to continue.

Still, instead of dwelling he was more concerned with Cassius following him to the ground worried when the vampire fell. He got closer to help when the other seemed absolutely horrified by something. At the whisper Lukas’s eyes followed his and he said, “No - no one’s there. Hey - careful now. Don’t fall in. ” He moved, making sure that Cassius didn’t accidentally go head first into the water offering his shirt now to the other to dry off. Part of him not quite sure what to do in this situation, worried more than anything else.

At the question Lukas shook his head and said, “ I - don’t know what it was. I’ve never seen it before - but if I were to guess it’s got something hallucinogenic with it. I think you may be high, Cassius. It may take awhile for it to wear off.” He kept a distance now that he was fairly sure that the other vampire had figured out what was happening, not wanting to encroach into his space. “I - think it's best we stay here for a little, if only so I know you don’t need to go to - I suppose the doctor?” He wasn’t sure how that would go, knowing Cassius was dead as well. “Please don’t sprint to the tree line again - you are much quicker than you think.” He said realizing that the Blonde was tracing the tree line again.

It was hard to tear his attention away from the trees, for the fear of seeing his sire skulking about was a very real one. Cassius blinked a few times, then forced himself to focus on Lukas. He listened to his voice, the content of his words. It was hard to stay focused when other stimuli were trying to force his attention elsewhere. Like that annoying, pink leopard. It was taunting him even still. He blinked a few times again, trying to regain focus. “I think…” his voice trailed off when Richard’s voice entered his mind. The fear struck him, causing him to go rigid where he stood. “You honestly think you can escape me?” The phantom voice taunted, followed by a click of his tongue.

Cassius took a deep breath, eyes downcast as he attempted to discern reality from hallucinations. He found that it was harder to do than he thought. “I think I need to go somewhere and lie down. Preferably somewhere dark.” He spoke slowly, trying to keep himself grounded in reality. He knew that Lukas had just suggested staying where they were, but there were so many things pulling his attention. Would the darkness make it worse? Probably.

“I won’t run off.” He promised, finally looking over to Lukas with a panicked smile. Cassius was trying so hard to remain civil, to not completely lose his mind over things that the other vampire could not see. This wasn’t real, he would be okay. He kept having to chant that to himself in his mind, continuing to tell himself to focus on Lukas and that he would be alright. Richard wasn’t there. “I think the only thing that’ll fix this is time,” he said reluctantly. “I need something to focus on.” He decided, clasping his hands together. “There’s so many voices and creatures in my head and vision right now, it’s hard to focus.”

Lukas watched carefully, wondering what Cassius’s experience was with his sire. He seemed to fear Richard, but perhaps not in the way Lukas feared his own. He was sure if he thought he saw Her he might actually start shaking, not wanting the older vampire to meet Her. Still, he waited cautious of the other sprinting away.

At the idea of getting Cassius away from the site Lukas nodded, knowing that perhaps there was too much around. He wanted the other to be comfortable, at least as much as he could be. “Okay. We can at least go down the path and maybe find some place to wait.” He quieted for a moment at the idea of too many thoughts. It wasn’t the same as what seemed to happen to Lukas, but there was something there he could relate too - even if he didn’t want too.

“Would it help to talk? We can walk and I can talk if that would help. I used to do it all the time - when people were scared it seemed to help,” Lukas said, avoiding the why behind it. He had been called to many last rites, and very often he stayed until the person passed. While he didn’t assume that this situation was similar, he figured it probably couldn’t hurt. “Although I do have to admit, a lot of my stories are probably dull compared to your own.”

Blinking, Cassius attempted to center himself, anything to keep him from flying off the handle. It was weird knowing that he was hallucinating while actively hallucinating. It was as if he couldn’t trust a thing he was seeing or hearing. He wasn’t sure what he could do to ease his troubles, but Lukas’s suggestion was better than nothing, he supposed. He nodded his head and began to walk down one of the paths, needing to occupy his mind with something.

“I just need to focus on something,” Cassius spoke with a nod of his head. “If you have something to talk about, or ask questions that you’d want to know about me.” He shrugged a shoulder, trying to grasp onto something as a distant whisper beckoned him into the tree line. He swerved toward the voice, but then shook his head, setting himself back on the correct path.

“This is hell.” He decided aloud, stopping in his tracks. Cassius quickly turned to Lukas, suddenly panicked. “Not that my time with you is hell, it’s just… that toad certainly knew how to ruin things.” He sighed, lowering his head in defeat. “I understand if you’d never want to see me again after this.” He then spoke, knowing that the entire night had gone to shit faster than he imagined it ever could have.

Lukas followed, keeping up with the other as they decided on the path ahead. He nodded and said, “I mean, I can be quite the talker if push came to shove but I always have questions I want to ask. Although I don’t want to corner you in answering just because of the circumstances. It would be a little unfair.” He didn’t get to close, scared of spooking Cassius more so.

At the exclamation of hell, Lukas blinked with the explanation causing something more of a kind to a chuckle than anything else. If only to relieve the tension that was in his throat. There was a seriousness that he didn’t like. “ Sorry, I’m not laughing at you and I mean it certainly wasn’t ideal. I feel pretty bad for suggesting this for an outing, but it’s hardly the worst one I’ve had. I could tell you that story if you would like.” At the idea of not seeing the other vampire again he couldn’t help but shake his head with a chuckle, “Again, not to laugh at you but I do want to see you again. If only to apologize profusely that I’ve gotten you high off of a toad? I mean I would understand if you would like to run me out of town, but I do hope you could find it in your heart to give me a second chance. Hopefully no invisible cats will be involved.”

As a way to show it Lukas offered Cassius his hand, lightly to not hurt himself if the other didn’t take it. “You didn’t ruin anything, and sans the toad I’ve had a lot of fun.”

Cassius hummed in response as Lukas began to talk. Already feeling himself at ease by the sound of his voice. “Sure, tell me that one.” He then spoke at Lukas bringing up the worst date he’d ever had. Cassius, for all the years he had lived, hadn’t really dated that many people in his life. Not even before Richard did he really go out with anyone. Well, there was the set-up with that young woman when he was only twenty. He blinked, shaking his head to right his thoughts back to the present.

Noticing the distance that Lukas had put between them, Cassius paused for a moment, allowing Lukas to catch up so he could walk beside. He gave Lukas a smile for reassurance. “No, please do laugh.” He insisted, raising his brows with widened eyes. “I will most assuredly laugh about it later, maybe when I’m not in the throes of it, is all.” He looked over to Lukas and shot him an amused half-smile.

“You got me high off a toad? Hardly. I think the toad got me high off of a toad.” Cassius waved a hand, dismissing the thought of Lukas being at fault entirely. A smile spread across Cassius’s face, genuine and warm. “I think I would like that. Maybe less nature. Can’t run into a toad when I’m indoors. Well, less likely, anyway.”

Lukas, surprisingly, had dated before he had joined the priesthood. Part of him had wanted to settle down instead, but the calling to religious life had been stronger than anything else. So he laughed and said, “I thought you might have a question about that. Seeing as I was a priest. Most people wouldn’t have thought I dated any. I will tell you it though if you’d like, but you really should have had more questions.” He nodded and said, “Yes, I hope you will. At least a little.” He snorted and said, “ I mean I didn’t call the toad, but you wouldn’t have been near it entirely.” Lukas returned the smile and said, “Yes - Next time let's just go do an indoor activity. Preferably no toads, but we can settle on just unlikely toads.”

#drug manipulation #para: cassius #our gentle sins; para #thank u Caitlyn for the nonsense this thread turned out to be #what a rollercoster

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