#doddle appreciation hours

[herbalinz]

Meow.

Lemme know who got babygirl Merrin in the comments

[runveganwankerrun]

Sat 29th Jun '24

And there you have it. Week five complete, including a massive fucking jump from eight minutes to twenty minutes. Tomorrow's goes back to five mins, eight mins, five mins. Should feel like a wee doddle after that!

I marshalled at a local half marathon last night, one of my favourite local races. It's the first time in a while that I've had race FOMO. It's a tough, hilly course, but a satisfying one, and the site of my first ever half mara, a sub two, which I beat by a narrow margin when I did it again the following year. It was great craic to be a race official, and shout at all the runners, many of whom I knew. And plenty shouted back. I also had GG for company, which I appreciated, as the tail took over three hours forty five minutes to come past us. Not that that's an issue. If you're going to volunteer at a half, you have to be prepared for the back of the pack, who've paid their money just like every body else. This particular event encompasses an eight mile walk, and it was a small pack of walkers who the tail was sheparding to the finish.

It was a cracking night. Great weather and fab company. It made me very happy to be part of the Northern Irish running community. Norn Irn's a small aul world, and it feels like everybody knows everybody, in the best way. I wonder if I'll act on my FOMO, and get half mara fit to run it next year. It's be nice to be back on the other side of it.

[dradelcra]

I can only post 10 (although, there aren't that many lmao) of these so F but look at who I love:

IT'S ON SIGHT!

I would very well hug this man, no cap.

I gotta draw Kristal hanging out with him. Maybe have them go out on a d- a da-

lmao I can't even say it, how scandalous. They going to Blackfog together f-ck it. I'm a lover of peeps hanging out.

That is all.

[who-ever-said-i-was-nice]

Hi! Can I ask an ikevamp request where the boys find MC's sketchbook and is filled with drawings and doodles of them? If all of the suitors is to much, then just do for Jean, Will, Theo, Mozart, Leo and Comte. Have a nice day! ^^

Bruh this is a genius idea @jeanstan . First of all thanks so much for this request and second of all of coarse I will do all the suitors. Why? Because I’m awesome. No I’m kidding, I’m literally the most clumsy, airheaded  person on this planet. Think brain fried Kaminari energy. Also I’m really sorry this took this long. Anywhooo let’s get into it shall we. Tags:      @nad-zeta​

Ilevamp suitors finding mc’s sketchbook

Comte

you where just chilling in his armchair and doodling him when sleep over took you and fell asleep

being the gentleman he is he picked you up and set you down on his bed tucking you in nicely

then he noticed your sketchbook on the armchair

not even mr. Perfect-guy can resist tacking a little peek at it

so  he just looked at the page that was already open

an there he saw a pretty good drawing of him

Comte to his brain: take a peek you said. it will be fine you said. why are you looking through it. you said.

yup he ended up going through your entire sketchbook

he then wrote a little thank you next to your most recent drawing and set it next to you.

when you saw his little note you blushed, but at least he liked it

Leonardo da sleepy

you where both just sitting in the library

you got a bit hungry so you left to get a snack but you accidentally left your notebook there

you know this guy has a thirst for knowledge and that includes figuring out what’s in your notebook

he will pick it up and flip it open expecting to see notes or random drawings

nope nope he sees a bunch of drawings of him with notes like * damn that smile owns my heart* or * UUUUUUH why is he so annoyingly adorable*

This guy has the biggest smirk plastered on his face. when you come back into the room

“ I didn’t know I was annoyingly adorable Cara mia”

cue you turning tomato red

Napoleon

you where sparring ( or where watching the boys spar whatever fits)

after a few rounds you decided to get a drink and offered to bring drinks for the boys too

Jean excused himself and went to the bathroom and Leon was left alone

now your sketchbook was already just on the ground next to your hoodie

he didn’t touch it ‘cause he’s nice, but now..

he decided to take a peek

and he saw a sketch of him sparring

he flipped through it and found more pictures

him sleeping, him laughing, him teaching the kids the best thing that would describe him in this moment that meme: mha heart mah soul

and you catch him with the notebook in his hands

he just walks up to you and hugs you

Isaac

little bean

he stumbles across it by accident, literally stumbles

you dropped it and he tripped on it

he’s like the f is this?

he picks it up and opens it

oh my Lord

he’s as red as an apple ( pun intended😏)

there are a bunch of doodles of him some where he’s holding Harry, some where it’s only him looking through his telescope or just off into the distance

you: Hey Isaac have you seen my...

Isaac: no I haven’t seen the notebook, idk about a notebook, what is a notebook even

poor boy

you just hug him and reassure him you’re not mad, when he mumbles an apology

Jean

precious bean yes Isaac, Jean and Vincent are all beans. COME @ ME

so you carried that notebook around everywhere you went and while he is not as attentive as Arthur he still noticed

so when you left your notebook in his bedroom after bringing him breakfast he couldn’t resist the urge to take a peek

when he sees a bunch of drawing of him he’s..torn

on one hand he’s moved and is actually happy that you drew him on the other he doesn’t understand why you would want to draw someone as impure as him akgkgakgskgfau LOVE HIM PLS

when you come back into the room you panic a little ‘cause he’s staring at it with a blank expression

but then he apologizes and your panic melt away

he ask you why you drew him and you if play the “because I love you” card he will be shocked and happy and confused and surprised...( the list is so long A decided it would be best to just ad an etc. over here)

you hug him and reassure him he is important and you love him

Arthur

ok so he knew that the sketchbook was important to you right of the bat

being the annoying sweet person he is he decides to pester you more then ever

“ Whatcha got there Luv?” “It’s my notebook” “Can I see what’s inside” *flashes a severely annoyed look* “Arthur this is the 7th time today and i have the same answer. No.” “ Oh come on doll it’s just a peak” “It is closed for a REASON!”

Yeah you might have snapped at him a little but his ho guy ain’t giving up

so of coarse when you leave your notebook in his room he will act like he didn’t notice until you leave and then he will scramble out of his chair and nab the notebook

he opens it expecting a diary or just a bunch of notes only to come face to face with a bunch of pictures of him

he’ll raise an eyebrow and keep looking until he finds a very beautiful and realistic drawing of him sleeping with Vic and he looses his shit

he’ll run to you and pull you back into the room to cuddle and tell you how much he loves you no he’s definitely not crying

you don’t get what’s happening until he tells you he saw your drawing and you will turn slightly pink but honestly you just can’t be mad

Mozart

ok so we all know that when he finds this notebook he’ll be stone-faced  

you ain’t getting no type of emotion out of this tsuntsun

that is until he’s in public

once he’s in his room oh boy

at first it’s just a hint of a smile, but it gets bigger and bigger until he’s smiling like a dork as he inspects your drawings

he’ll never admit it but the fact that you drew him really warmed his icy heart

he even finds one where he’s by a Christmas tree smiling and a little note next to it saying “I’ll make him smile like this one day”

he closes the book and puts on his stone face again and leaves his room

in the corridor he runs into you

“ Hey, Wolf?” “What do you want.” “Isn’t that my notebook?” “Yes it is.” “So why do you have it?” “....Inspiration.”

yup now he has that notebook with him on the piano and only let’s you get it back if you want to doddle in it some more

Theo

you where cooking in the kitchen, whipping up some pancakes for the brothers

Theo came in to complain that there wasn’t enough syrup on his pancake and you flashed him a death glare and told him to get some from the cupboard

as he grumbles to himself h notices your sketchbook  on the counter

and he proceeds to open it and go through it

he sees a bunch of pretty decent drawings of him and he’s surprised

he’ll act all tough but he’s really happy

“ Oi, Hondjie! What is this?” he shows you your most recent sketch. The one where he’s walking King with a faint smile on his lips.

you instantly go bright red

“ Put that down! You where not supposed to see that! There not good just put it down”

he’ll sigh and pull you into a hug

“ I like it”

Vincent

smol bean

you left it in his room and he just wanted to take a peek

and he opened it up and saw a punch of sketches of him

they even had notes like “uhh stop moving you hand” or “how can someone be this pure”

he’s moved

will go and find you and apologize for looking in your notebook and will tell you how cute your drawings are

all in all he’s a sweet little angel but like who expected  anything else

Dazai

funny how he can’t remember your name but can remember exactly were you hide the sketchbook when you can’t take it with you

yup this guy just went and took it

he has no shame

he flicked trough it and smiled to himself

the drawings where adorable and funny and he loved it

you strait up walk in on him with the sketchbook and he just smiled at you

you turn pink trying to explain why you drew them

buuuut he just twirls you around and pules you into his lap smiling and you go over the drawing together recalling happy memories  

Sebastian

did somebody say Sebastian appreciation hours

You can’t really hide anything from Sebas can you

you went out to get groceries and he was cleaning up around the mansion

you had left your notebook tucked behind one of the library shelves and as he was dusting he found it

he opened it not knowing it was your notebook

he realized soon enough though

he just starred at the pages full of drawings of him

you waked in and he just calmly put the notebook down

he asks why you drew him and you turn pink

as you try to formulate a coherent response he sighs and makes his way to you

he gently flicks your forehead and smiles

“I never said I didn’t like them”

Will

ok so lets talk about our dear yandere boy Will

you hang out a lot at his villa

usually you are accompanied by Vincent

but today he remembered he had a painting to finish and left

you offered to walk him to the gate and he gladly accepted

however you forgot your sketchbook on the dining table

William instantly noticed this and couldn’t help but take a peek

he’s shooketh

the drawing are so cute  he really likes them

you come in and he smiles at you

your kind of embarrassed because 1 you didn’t want him to see that and 2 he asked you if you could draw in front of him

“ The way thou hand moves across this paper mesmerizes me”

you turn bright red but your happy he likes it

[thatssopiahere]

This image showed in my mind like, half an hour ago so I had to draw it.

It's just a doddle but damn, the angst.

Anyway, reblogs are always appreciated.

"The Fall", proportion 1:1

[marosstuff]

Oh man look at what day it is

It's 13th of November 2020

And you know what that means

Appreciate the last hours left of UnesAnnes

Some doddles I made in the honer of the chanel

Also some screenshots that I would like people to remember that they exist

[conceptstage]

Risotto Day

Jester frowned as she pushed the biscuit crumbs around on her plate with the tip of her finger, forming the shape of a dick. She sighed and looked over at the door across the room when it opened but a woman with long blonde hair walked in. She pouted and looked down at her phone, hoping for an ‘I’m almost there! Just pulling into the parking lot’ text to show up but there was none.

“Miss?” the half orc waiter said, getting her attention He was giving her a sympathetic smile. “Are you ready to order?”

She looked back down at her phone. “I’ll give him another minute.” She had said that seven minutes ago and then fourteen minutes before that.

“I’ll get you some more bread.”

She liked this guy, he knew what a girl in this situation really needed. She sighed heavily and glanced back down at her phone just in time to see a text pop up. ‘Sorry, Jester, I won’t be able to make it tonight. Something came up.’

Jester frowned. ‘This is the second date you’ve missed. Go fuck yourself.’ She sent it and tossed her phone into the purse on the floor. She sighed heavily and covered her face with her hands in embarrassment. She’d been stood up again. She felt tears of rage start to burn in the back of her eyes just as someone slid into the seat across from her, breathing deeply from running over.

“Sorry I’m late,” said a kind, feminine voice. Jester looked up and spotted a beautiful dark skinned woman with an undercut and a bun. There was an all-seeing eye tattooed under her ear and three piercings (three that Jester could see at least). She grinned and reached up to brush back a loose strand of hair. “Hope I didn’t keep you waiting for too long.”

Jester blinked in surprise. “Wh-Who are you?” She asked, keeping her voice to a whisper. “I think you might probably be at the wrong table technically.”

She grinned and unfolded the menu sitting in front of her. “Nope. I’m your date now. Name’s Beauregard.”

Jester blinked, still a little shocked. “Jester,” she said. The woman reached across the table and Jester took her hand, thinking that maybe she was going to shake it, but, instead, she leaned up to kiss the back of her fingers. Jester couldn’t help the nervous, yet delighted giggle that bubbled up in her throat and the woman, Beauregard, smiled proudly.

The waiter came over again and gave her new date a sour look. “Beau,” he said, his voice low. “What are you doing? You know what Dairon’s gonna say if she sees you fraternizing with the guests.”

“I’m off the clock, I’m out of uniform, I’m on a date. She has nothing to complain about. Weren’t you going to bring us bread?”

The half-orc rolled his eyes but reached over to the empty table behind her to move a small basket of rolls over in front of them. “Can I take your order?” he asked, forcing a fake smile at Beau, who was apparently his co-worker.

Beau hummed thoughtfully and looked at the menu. “What do you recommend?” she asked, teasingly.

“That you go fu-” He cut himself off and glanced at Jester out of the corner of his eye like he had forgotten that she was a customer. “Sorry, Ma’am,” he mumbled, before turning to Beau once more. “I recommend the lobster. Freshly caught this morning.”

Beau snorted. “That’s a lie. I’m the one who unpacked that delivery. I’ll have the ribs.”

Jester jumped when they both turned their eyes to her and she realized that she hadn’t even glanced at the menu. “Oh! What should I get?”

“You eat meat?” Beau asked, resting her chin on her open hand. Jester nodded and Beau reached over to point to something on the menu. “The risotto is probably the only non-frozen thing on the menu. The make it in a pot every couple days and, you’re in luck, today was risotto day so it’s fresh. The chicken is microwaved but the rice is pretty good. I’m getting the ribs because they drown it in so much sauce you can’t even tell it’s freezer burnt.”

Jester cleared her throat and gave Fjord a smile. “I’ll have the risotto. Thank you.”

The waiter nodded. “I’ll go put that in for you then.” He turned to leave and Beau called out to him.

“And Fjord? Make it snappy if you want a tip, yeah?” The half orc lifted up the menus in his hand and flipped her off subtly under them. Beau laughed to herself. “Sorry,” she said, shaking her head. “I’m an asshole, he’s used to it. I’ll give him a good tip.”

Jester grinned at her, idly drawing the woman’s carefree smile on her napkin. “So, you work here?” she asked.

“Yeah, here on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday nights, The Evening Nip every other night of the week. Then during the day I’m a librarian.”

Jester’s jaw dropped. “You have three jobs?”

Beau shrugged and nodded. “Three steady jobs. Ever since my parents… Well anyway, sometimes I do odd work and shit around town. Setting up for carnivals, selling turkey legs at Ren Faire, that kind of thing. What do you do?”

“I’m taking Art at Zadash U.” After that long list of jobs it sounded a little weak to just say ‘I’m a full time student with no bills’ but it was the truth so she wasn’t sure what else she could say.

Beau didn’t seem upset at least and just nodded. “Sweet, you’re an artist?”

Jester held up the doddle of Beau’s face that she’d been working on for the last few minutes and she gasped. “Fuck, that’s awesome! Can I have that?”

Jester nodded and slid it over. “There is a dick on the other side.”

Beau picked up the napkin and flipped it over, giving her an appreciative nod. “Not a bad dick. Just realistic enough to be funny but no so real that it looks gross. Very nice.”

Jester grinned. “Thank you.” No one ever showed her dicks the appreciation they deserved. “So, uh, why did you sit with me exactly? Not that I don’t want you here or anything!” she rushed to amend.

Beau didn’t seem put off and just nodded. “My shift was over and I was leaving but I saw you here and I just thought… she’s too damn pretty to be so sad on a Friday night, and, next thing I knew, I was sitting down. I barely remember even making the decision. You know, if you do actually want me to leave it won’t hurt my feelings, I’d completely understand.”

Jester shook her head and smiled kindly. “No. I want to you stay.” Beau grinned happily and Jester felt her stomach flutter nervously at the sight.

They talked for hours, long after their empty plates had gone cold. It wasn’t until Fjord walked over with an exasperated sigh that they realized how late it had gotten. “Yo, Beau, can you pay so that I can close out your table and go home?”

Beau looked down at her phone, abandoned on the corner of the table hours ago, and hissed through her teeth. “Fuck, man, yeah. Sorry.” She pulled her wallet out of her back pocket and pulled out a wad of rumbled bills, and Jester realized suddenly that those were her tips from today.

“Let me get it,” Jester said, pulling her purse up off the floor to sit in her lap.

“Nope, nope, I crashed your dinner, I’m paying for it.”

“No really, it’s fine, I have my momma’s credit card and-”

“Nope, I’ve got it.”

Fjord rolled his eyes. “You’re ridiculous,” he muttered.

“Beau,” Jester said, pulling her hand out of her purse to put it on Beau’s wrist and stop her. “Please. Let me get it. You can get the next one.”

Beau froze and glanced up at her, her eyes wide. “Next one?”

“Unless you don’t-”

“No! I do, I really do. I’ve just never been on a second date before, I was surprised.” She hesitated, but then slowly started putting her cash back in her wallet as Jester handed over her credit card. While Fjord was gone, the women exchanged numbers and when he came back, Jester was trying to convince Beau that she would cover the tip but Beau was furiously pulling bills out of her wallet once more.

“Fjord!” she said, when she met his eyes. She practically threw the money at him before Jester could write the tip in on the receipt he handed her.

Fjord sighed and picked up the loose bills off the floor. “For fucks sake, you’re hopeless. Do you both have a ride? The buses are closed now.”

Jester cleared her throat and nodded. “I texted my driver a little while ago, he’s waiting outside. Beau, do you need a ride?”

Beau’s brain had stopped when Jester said ‘driver’ so Fjord answered for her. “She’s going downtown, probably the opposite way of you. I’ll get her home alright.”

Jester nodded and stood up and Beau hurried to help her with her coat. Jester grinned and kissed Beau’s cheek, feeling a twirl of warmth in the chest when Beau's dark skin turned even darker red. “I’ll text you?” she asked, starting for the door.

Beau nodded, stunned, until Fjord elbowed her in the side. “Make sure she gets to her car alright,” he whispered.

“Ah, Jester! I’ll walk you out!”

Fjord was shaking his head as they both left the restaurant but he couldn’t help the fond smile that came to his face at the sight of his best friend so happy for the first time in a long time. He didn’t even mind it when she spent the entire drive to their neighborhood gushing about Jester.

[ramblingrybo]

Hyacinths? You’ll need some hair lacquer

I have an intimate knowledge of hyacinths. The same can be said of strawberries, potatoes and cocktail onions. It was what we picked or sorted in the fields and factories of Boston when I was young. In those days, most casual work was connected to agriculture and there was plenty of it. It might have been mind-numbing but it guaranteed a ready source of income with which to buy comics, records, guitar strings or cigarettes, depending on your age.

I started working on the land when I was ten. A double decker bus would pick us up after school from the scout huts near Skirbeck church and take us to the fruit fields of Frampton, four miles away. The bus would be crammed with hyper-active school children, harassed young mothers and short-tempered grannies with ill-functioning hearing aids. Nobody talked; everybody shouted. This was punctuated by the odd slap and scream. It was pure bedlam.

When we were finally released from this uproar upon our arrival, all you could see were endless rows of bobbing rumps. All you could hear was the distant growl of a tractor and the trilling of skylarks in the vast skies above us. Within minutes, we were picking our own row, filling a bucket in exchange for a few pence and then repeating the process, more slowly each time. At first, you would start to pick with fast pecking hands. Very soon, however, any sense of urgency would disappear, quickly replaced by a mechanical lethargy until finally a state of paralysis set in. This was reflected in the shape of the body, from bent to crawling to completely inert. Some people, however, took this one step further. One summer, we found Gonk’s younger brother, Rabbit, curled-up asleep in one of the furrows. However, for the rest of us, three hours of routine picking left us with an aching back, knees covered in mashed strawberries and glazed eyes. 

All soft fruit work was piece-work but at least with raspberries and gooseberries you didn’t have to stoop so far. That was the good news. The bad news was that you had to pick with prickles or thorns for company. Raspberries were bearable although the fruit was so delicate, it was like picking soft meringues - easily squash-able. Gooseberries, on the other hand, were savage. Trying to pick gooseberries quickly while only wearing a pair of Marigolds, was like feeding your hands into a factory loom. It was only the regulars who made any money. They could strip a bush within seconds and fill a wicker basket within minutes. I was so impressed the first time I witnessed it. 

‘Wow, that’s amazing. I just tried to do that and left a lot of skin behind.’

‘You know why they’re so good, don’t you?

‘No.’

‘It’s the gloves they’ve got. They have metal palms. You could strip the barnacles from the bottom of a boat with a pair of those.’

Soft fruit piece-work was for the beginners. If you wanted to guarantee full time work for the holidays and enjoy a weekly pay packet, you needed to join a gang. I was lucky. As a fourteen year old, I found Maggie. She was an experienced ganger who didn’t suffer fools gladly. A strict disciplinarian, Maggie hated lateness, sloppy work and anybody answering her back. She had an acid tongue, skin as leathery as an old saddle-bag and a forearm smash that could stun a mule. If you toed the line, working for Maggie was a cinch. If you didn’t, you could be harangued, physically assaulted, summarily dismissed or, worst of all, find yourself walking all the way home from Spalding, a tedious and exhausting trek of fourteen miles. Work could be anywhere in the south of Lincolnshire. We would get picked up at 7a.m. in Boston and be working in the fields of Bicker, Pinchbeck, Dogdyke, Cowbit or Moulton Chapel by 8. The van which picked us up was held together with bits of bailer twine and wire - a description which could also be applied to some of  the regular workers whose company we kept every holiday. Moose was one of them. He was a huge, kindly man with the strength of a cart horse but the brain of a child. Poor thing believed anything we told him. His trousers were always at half-mast, he sported a basin haircut and lived in a shed behind his mum’s council bungalow.

Most of the work was picking potatoes which is back-breaking and relentless. We prayed for the tractor with its plough to break down. When it didn’t, we had to pick two-handed to keep up although heel and toeing could lighten the load considerably. This entailed stamping on the potatoes to bury them with the heel of your boot and then scraping back with the toe to cover the evidence with soil. Well-practised proponents of this skill could tap-dance a whole row of potatoes out of existence. Many of the best workers were women who could work for hours without a break. As most of them smoked and kept their cigarettes in their mouths while picking, many of them sported nicotine stains on their upper lips. As a result, lunch times in the van could be a bit of a trial for the rest of us. Watching a nicotine stained woman eating a fried egg sandwich was not an appetising sight. Many a slice of pork pie was returned to a lunch box, uneaten.

Sometimes we were released from the retches and furrows to work on tractor-drawn potato harvesters, machines which harvested the crop and allowed sorting to be carried out on a mobile conveyor belt. A line of us would pick out the rotten or damaged potatoes. Once again, it was relentless work but at least we were standing up. The only problem came in really hot weather when the fields were dry. The harvester would create dust storms which meant that we had to wear hats, goggles and scarves to protect heads and faces. Looking like flying aces from the First World War, we baked, lost all sense of hearing and dreamt of ice-cold drinks.

Promotion came at the age of sixteen when we moved from the fields to the factory. Thinking we had finally made it, we got jobs at Johnson’s Seeds, working in the bulb packaging department. Little did we know, however, of the suffering which lay ahead. At first, our daily routine was a doddle. No rain, decent breaks, a canteen, good pay. And the work? Undemanding, if a little dull. My job was to load crocus bulbs into a mechanical hopper which vibrated back and forth and graded them. It wasn’t difficult -  a bit of lugging, pushing a couple of buttons and some prodding. And repeat. But then we switched to hyacinth bulbs and for the next few weeks our lives became a living hell.

We should have heeded Beryl’s warning on the Friday afternoon. 

‘Hyacinths on Monday. You’ll be needin’ some hair lacquer, lovey.’

I waited until she had gone before turning to Gary.

‘Hair lacquer? What’s she on about?’

‘Search me. It’s probably the medication.’

‘You reckon she’s off her trolley?’

‘Must be.’

A further clue was provided first thing on the Monday morning when we arrived at the hoppers. Eric, the manager, was positively buoyant. Chortling to himself, he winked at Stuart, the foreman, and both of them began to rub their hands together like two football supporters eagerly anticipating a cup final. 

‘Come on, then, what are yer waitin’ fer? Git them machines runnin’ and them hyacinths tumblin’.’

And we did. And five minutes later, we were scratching crazily at our necks, throats and scalps and emitting high-pitched wails like the noise cars make when they are being crushed slowly in a scrapyard with a giant iron claw. Very quickly, any exposed skin was red raw and nasty welts had been scored by fingernails into our flesh. We jigged and flailed like members of a religious cult while Eric and Stuart rocked with laughter from the safety of their office. 

And what was to blame for this sudden change of behaviour? Sounds implausible I know but it was the waxy skin on the hyacinth bulbs. You see, it breaks down into small flecks when it is tossed about in a hopper. These flecks become airborne and alight on the open pores of necks and throats and cause extreme irritation. The only way of preventing this is to apply a thick coating of hair lacquer to the skin to block the pores. Rather than being off her trolley, Beryl had been trying to protect us. What we took to be the mutterings of a mad woman were, in fact, the kind words of a co-worker.

We didn’t make the same mistake twice. On our way home, we called in at the chemist’s.

‘Five tins of hair lacquer, please.’

‘Blimey, young man, it’ll set like cement if yer use that much.’

If it was possible to protect against the effects of hyacinth bulbs, the same could not be said of cocktail onions. These were what we ended up sorting and grading in the factory job which took us through our college years. It wasn’t that they made your eyes stream. We soon got used to that. No, it was what lingered afterwards which was the cause of much embarrassment. You see, the smell of cocktail onions stays for days, not only on your clothes but on your skin as well. Baths, deodorant, after shave, all were useless in the struggle to remain fresh and wholesome. A weekend trip to the cinema with your girlfriend could be a fraught affair. In the warmth of the auditorium, the smell of onions returned with a vengeance, seeping out of bodily pores and crevices. 

‘What on earth is that smell? It’s not you, is it?’

‘No, of course, not.’

‘Have you had a bath today?’

‘Yes, I had a long soak.’

‘Can you lean away a bit?’

‘That OK?’

‘Actually, can you sit over there?’

Even when we had left the job for good, we were haunted by the odour. Working in a cocktail onion factory might have been good money but it didn’t half play havoc with your love life.

So, there we have it. The trials and tribulations of working in the fields and factories of Boston as a pupil and student in the late 60s and early 70s. And its legacy? A life-long admiration for anybody working on the land and an appreciation of the choices which were made available to me in my own life.

Next time: ‘On the Verge of Orchids (or Where did I put that Herb Paris?)’ 

[miguel-manbemel]

Aspects & Fanfics Ep. 16: The Island of Forbidden Creativity: The Five Challenges

New entry of this fic inspired on “Sanders Sides” by Thomas Sanders and Joan S. I seriously considered releasing this in two parts, because it’s a long, long episode. But I decided to release it all as one long “feature”. As I announced on the previous entry, this episodes features an alternate universe introduction of Remus in what probably is the most epic adventure I have ever written, but it’s up to you judge that. I’m not making the introduction any longer, so here we go. As always, you can find entries to the previous episodes right here. And I thank anyone who reads, likes or reblogs this or any of the entries from this fic. You are really appreciated and I couldn’t be more grateful. Until next time.

SYNOPSIS: Remus, Roman’s brother and the other half of Thomas’ Creativity, has kidnapped Roman’s other brother, the Prince Guy, and holds him as hostage. Roman, Thomas and the Sides must go to the Island of Forbidden Creativity, in the sea of Sandersia, where they will have to go through five challenges staged by Remus. If they don’t complet the challenges before one hour, Remus, who as Creativity has the power to do so, will erase the Prince Guy from existence.

WARNINGS: The first warning has a proper name: Remus. He appears here with everything warning that comes associated with it, you already know, even though I think I didn’t go as far as “Dealing with Intrusive Thoughts” did, but Remus himself is a trigger to some, so fair warning. Oh, and there’s prinxiety too.

EPISODE INDEX

THOMAS: Joan, Talyn and I are going to the beach next weekend. It’s gonna be so much fun… I just warned them to bring the black glasses with them, you know, the ones we used on the solar eclipse we saw in New York. It would be too dangerous to look at my super pail skin with their eyes unprotected…

[intro sequence]

THOMAS: What is up, everybody? Well, who would have thought. After so many weeks of emotions, some of them bad, some of them good… now I suddenly find myself in a state of utter… and total… relaxation.

VIRGIL: [rising up, yelling] THOMAS!

THOMAS: [jumps scared] WHAT!? [trying to breath] Please, Virgil… I thought we were over this, don’t just jump out of nowhere when I’m feeling relaxed!

VIRGIL: I’m sorry.

THOMAS: Weren’t you and Roman on your honeymoon? You were supposed to be back next weekend.

VIRGIL: There’s no time for that, Thomas! This is an emergency!

THOMAS: What? What is going on!?

ROMAN: [rising up] He’s right, Thomas. We need help!

THOMAS: Okay, okay, relax, please!

LOGAN: [rising up] The first thing you must do is calm down, or else we won’t understand anything.

PATTON: [rising up] Don’t worry, kiddos. Whatever it is, we’re with you and we’ll solve it together.

DECEIT: [rising up] Certainly.

HONESTY: [materializing] Now, please, calm down and explain to us what is going on.

ROMAN: What is going on? [yelling] What is going on!? [screeching the last word] What is going OOON!?

[Roman slaps himself in the cheek]

ROMAN: I’m sorry, I got carried away… Listen. This has to do with my brother.

THOMAS: With the Prince Guy?

ROMAN: Yes… and no at the same time.

LOGAN: I’m confused.

THOMAS: If you’re confused, Logan, think about how I am.

ROMAN: Okay… it’s time to reveal my secret. You know I told you the Prince Guy is my brother. And he is, but only in Sandersia. The truth is… that I have another…

[makes a pause as if he didn’t want to say the word]

VIRGIL: …brother. He has another brother, Thomas.

THOMAS: Another brother?

ROMAN: Yes, but this one is a Side of you, Thomas. A Side you didn’t know about.

THOMAS: I have a feeling… that today’s gonna be a bad day…

ROMAN: It will be better if I show you in a flashback everything that has happened. You see, this morning, Virgil and I were on the vacation island, when we looked at the sea and we saw a ship coming. It was soon that I identified my brother’s flag. He would be the only one who would print a stick of deodorant on it.

THOMAS: [confused] A… what?

VIRGIL: Wait for it… you’ll understand in a couple of minutes… sort of…

ROMAN: It took only a few minutes for the ship to get to the shore, and then…

[a flashback begins. Roman and Virgil are at the beach, looking at the ship next to the shore. Someone wearing green makes a huge jump from the ship and lands in front of them]

ROMAN: [concerned voice, frowning] …Remus!

REMUS: [with a devious smile] Long time no see, Roman!

ROMAN: How did you get out of the island?

REMUS: Is that all you have to say to your dear brother? After so many years?

ROMAN: If I said everything I wanted to say…

REMUS: Come on, Roman, don’t hold yourself! [devious smile] You know how I love kinky remarks!

ROMAN: Okay. Let’s get down to business. If you’re here, it’s clear you want something. What is it?

REMUS: But Roman, you’re not even going to introduce me to your little friend?

ROMAN: Okay. Remus, this is my husband Virgil. Virgil, this is the Duke, Remus. Happy? Now, what do you want?

REMUS: Oh, don’t be so rude! That’s my job! So you got married after all? And you didn’t invite your poor twin brother to the wedding? [faking sadness] Poor little me… [back to his usual attitude] Oh, wait. You did invite your brother, didn’t you? That doddle you created for yourself to try and replace me. It was pretty cute how he performed the ceremony.

ROMAN: How do you…? [suddenly scared] Wait a second! What did you do to him!?

REMUS: Ugh… My reputation precedes me… Why does everyone think all the time that I’m the bad guy?

ROMAN: Enough, Remus, tell me what did you do to the Prince Guy!

REMUS: Oh, don’t worry, Roman. Your fake brother is all right… [suddenly deadly serious] for the time being.

ROMAN: [angry, rising his fist] If you dare to do something to him I swear that I…

REMUS: You… what? You’ll destroy me? You know you can’t do that. We share an unbreakable bond, brother. You need me to keep on existing just as much as I need to you to exist. If something happens to me, the same will happen to you. What a pity that your fake brother doesn’t share that trait with us, right?

ROMAN: Okay, Remus. If you just wanted to do something to him, you would have done it already, so what do you want?

REMUS: Oh, nothing special. I just want that you, Thomas and all of your other friends come to visit me in my little island. You know… the one where you exiled me into years ago.

ROMAN: What for?

REMUS: I think it’s time to have a family gathering, with the whole family, I mean. [pulls out a bottle of deodorant and starts eating it, then offers some to Virgil, while loudly chewing it] Want some?

VIRGIL: Ew… gross!

REMUS: Why? It’s delicious.

ROMAN: How do I know that my brother is still alive, Remus?

REMUS: [as if he was offended] Oh, Roman, who do you think I am?

ROMAN: Do I need to answer to that?

REMUS: [giggles] Okay, you’re right. Look at my ship, right on top of the… the tall pole thingy…

[Roman uses the binoculars. He gasps when he sees the Prince Guy tied to the mast. The Prince Guy looks right at Roman as if he could see him. He says “I’m sorry”, and although Roman can’t hear him, he does understand him by reading his lips]

ROMAN: [angry] Why did you have to tie him up there!?

REMUS: [unconcerned smile] Because it was fun, of course! Well, now you’ve seen him. You and the rest of your gang have one hour to come to the island, starting from now. Or else… well, let’s just say that it would be a pity to wipe such a noble character from the face of existence. Byeee!

[Remus suddenly jumps to the ship. The ship then sails away as fast as it arrived. Soon it disappears in the distance. Roman angrily yells and throws the binoculars to the ground, breaking them in half, then holds his head with both hands in despair]

VIRGIL: [holding his shoulders] I’m so sorry, Roman…

ROMAN: After all this time… I thought that I had gotten rid of him for good. I guess the devil looks after his own. But how could he get away after so many years?

VIRGIL: I’ve got so many questions… but there’s only one that matters now. What are we going to do, Roman?

ROMAN: The only thing we can do right now, Virgil. There’s little time, and if I know Remus, and, unfortunately, I know him too well, he’s not bluffing about wiping my brother from existence. We must call the others.

[the flashback ends]

THOMAS: Okay. So, Remus is your brother, and you say that he’s a Side of me, but what Side? I don’t understand.

ROMAN: Remus is my… [makes a pause]

VIRGIL: ...twin brother.

ROMAN: That’s it... because he represents the other edge of your creativity, Thomas.

THOMAS: What?

ROMAN: I take charge of your “light imagination”, the one you use for your work, your happy thoughts, your hopes and dreams… Remus is everything else. He’s the part of your imagination that must be supressed. If I’m your dreams, he’s your nightmares; if I’m your hopes, he’s your dark fantasies; if I’m your creative thoughts, he’s your intrusive thoughts…

THOMAS: I don’t think I’m gonna like him…

ROMAN: Tell me about it. He always tried to mess around with my Dream Factory to create all sort of abominations to haunt you. You remember my Dream Factory, right Thomas? It’s the one we visited months ago to try and solve your problem of wrath… [suddenly remembering] Oh, I forgot about Ira… I’m sorry, guys, I’ve come here to bother you with another issue when I don’t know if you have recovered from that one…

DECEIT: It’s okay, Roman. Ira is alive.

VIRGIL: What?

DECEIT: He’s come back to life as a Sanders Sprite. He came to visit us a couple of days ago. He asked us to send you his love.

VIRGIL: That’s so good to know… I wish we had been there to see him too.

THOMAS: Yeah, me too, but he could stay only for a couple of minutes and we didn’t have time to call you.

ROMAN: That’s really great news to hear, and I’d literally start singing out of joy… if we weren’t in the situation we are right now. Guys, time is running out. We have to do something to rescue my brother.

THOMAS: I guess we have to do as Remus said. We have to go to that… island you mentioned.

VIRGIL: But is it safe to just do as he says? It could perfectly be a trap.

ROMAN: It definitely is a trap, Virgil. Remus is up to something, but he’s so unpredictable that I don’t know what he could be plotting against us. You guys must understand that, if we go, we’re all gonna be at risk. I wouldn’t ask you to do this if my brother’s life wasn’t endangered.

THOMAS: Of course we’re going. Trap or not. You are one of us, Roman. If he hurts you or your loved ones, he’s hurting us all. You can count on us, right guys?

LOGAN: Affirmative.

PATTON: Right, kiddo!

DECEIT: Count me in.

HONESTY: And me too.

VIRGIL: I already vowed to be with you in good times and bad. Of course I’m not letting you down.

ROMAN: [emotional] I love you, guys.

THOMAS: Now, before we go, what is that island we’re going into?

ROMAN: It’s the Island of Forbidden Creativity.

THOMAS: Another of your foreboding names, Roman?

ROMAN: Yes. I named it like that because I created it specifically to hold Remus. I still don’t know how he could get away.

THOMAS: Where is it and how do we get there?

ROMAN: It is far, far away, on the other edge of Sandersia, beyond the Sea of the Blank Pages. I made sure that it was as isolated as it could be so that Remus could never find the way back. That’s why I don’t know how he could do it…

THOMAS: Will we be able to get there in less than an hour?

ROMAN: Oh, yes, Thomas. You should know by now that traveling in Sandersia can be pretty fast if you have the right mode of conveyance.

VIRGIL: And is there something in that island that we should be worried about? I mean, if you created it as a prison for Remus, it has to have some danger into it, doesn’t it?

ROMAN: The truth is I didn’t design many traps on it myself. I considered that being in the middle of nowhere was already enough to contain him. I cannot speak on Remus’ behalf, though. I’m sure he has prepared a welcome committee for us.

THOMAS: Okay, we’ll have to find out when we get there. I presume we must go to your room first to get there, right?

ROMAN: Yes, first to my room, then to Sandersia and then we go to the shore. The royal carriage is waiting at the door to my room, and the ship is also waiting at the shore, you know, the one we used to come and go from the vacation island.

THOMAS: Then let’s go.

[Honesty’s hologram disappears. Thomas and the Sides sink down, then they appear in Roman’s room. They quickly get to Sandersia and jump on the royal carriage, which takes them to the shore. They get off and look at the ship. It’s similar to Remus’ ship, but the flag sports Roman’s shield. The gang get aboard and the ship starts sailing. It goes fast and soon the shore disappears in the horizon. Thomas is leaning overboard, looking at the sea, and Virgil approaches him and leans next to him]

THOMAS: It’s strange, isn’t it?

VIRGIL: What?

THOMAS: The ship is sailing so fast… but it doesn’t look like it at all. At the speed we’re going, in the real world we would be forced to hold onto the nearest thing so that we don’t just get propelled out, and yet here we are, as if this was a tranquil cruise. I can’t even feel the speed at all.

VIRGIL: Yeah, you’re right. I also felt the same when we were sailing to the vacation island. Thomas…

THOMAS: Yes, Virgil?

VIRGIL: How has been Deceit doing lately? I couldn’t stop worrying about him all these days.

THOMAS: Well… he certainly was devastated. You left two weeks after… what happened, and he still stayed inside of Honesty for two whole weeks more. In the end it was him who finally gave signs of life, so we clung onto that to appeal to him. In hindsight, I think he also wanted to get out, but he just didn’t feel worthy of it. It took some time to finally make him remember he’s one of us and why he’s one of us, but we finally did it, and Ira’s surprise appearance in the end was the cherry on top to make him feel better. I don’t think you have anything to worry about anymore.

VIRGIL: But I do, Thomas. I can’t help but feeling a little awkward when we’re in the same room.

THOMAS: Why?

VIRGIL: Well, how would you feel if you were in the same room with someone that you positively know he has feelings towards you but you can’t return these feelings, and not only that but you’re in the same room with that person and the person who loves you and you’re in love with, who also knows that the other person has feelings for me?

THOMAS: Yeah, that’s rough, buddy.

VIRGIL: It’s weird that the three of us are here acting as if nothing had happened. I don’t know if I can keep up the act for too long. I wish I had Deceit’s capacity for deception, but I don’t.

THOMAS: I understand, Virgil, but, at least for the team, you will have to make an effort and do as if nothing had happened. Because, to be fair, nothing has really happened. Deceit never wanted to confess his feelings towards you because he respected your relation with Roman.

VIRGIL: You’re right, but still…

THOMAS: I understand your worrying. You’re Vigilance, after all, but I don’t think you have anything to fear. It’s just that this is the first time the three of you are together after the reveal, but you’ll get used to it, and in no time it will be like the old times. Well, not like the old, old ones, but the newer old ones, do you get me? You’ll see.

VIRGIL: I hope you’re right, Thomas. I don’t wanna lose his friendship again.

DECEIT: Me neither, Virgil.

[Virgil gets startled and now notices Deceit behind them]

VIRGIL: How long have you been there?

DECEIT: [walking next to them] It doesn’t matter. Listen, when I was in my retirement this past month, I had a lot of time to think… in between the moments I wasn’t torturing myself over Ira’s fate, that is. And I came to a conclusion. I value our friendship, and I also value Roman’s friendship. As Honesty is my witness that I’m saying the truth, I would never do anything to betray that. You and Roman have nothing to fear from me, I promise.

VIRGIL: I know that, but how will that make you feel? That’s what is worrying me the most.

DECEIT: Well, one thing friends do is putting their friendship before themselves… Ha… to think that I used to call this a boogeyman not so long ago… Now I understand the real value of friendship and I’m gonna honor ours. In time, my feelings will lower down to what they’re supposed to be, the most intense and sincere of friendships you could ever get. So don’t worry about me, Virgil, I’ll be fine.

VIRGIL: Thank you.

PATTON: [yelling from the ship’s bow] Land ahoy, kiddos! [giggles] I’ve always wanted to say that.

[All the Sides and Thomas gather on bow and look at the island they can see in the horizon. At first it just looks like a shadow, but as they get closer, they see it’s full of green everywhere. There’s what looks like a castle on top of the tallest hill]

HONESTY: [from inside Deceit’s body] It doesn’t look so dangerous. In fact, it looks really pretty.

ROMAN: Don’t judge by appearances, Hon. That island is dangerous, especially with Remus on the loose.

HONESTY: Well, you know best, Roman, you made the island.

THOMAS: Okay… We’re arriving. Where should we take the ship, Roman?

ROMAN: Over there, Thomas, there’s a dock on that beach.

[The ship sails to where Roman has pointed out and docks. Thomas and the Sides get off and walk to the beach. They don’t have to walk much when Remus appears in front of them]

REMUS: Oooh! You’ve arrived at last! And five minutes before the deadline! I’m impressed, Roman!

ROMAN: Yes, we are here, Remus. Now, where is my brother?

REMUS: Why, I’m here, Roman! Are you sure you don’t need glasses?

ROMAN: [cold voice] I mean my brother, Remus. You are just a curse in my life I’m forced to deal with.

REMUS: [shows a brief gesture of hurt that lasts for a second, then quickly masks it with his usual tone] Ouch… that hurts… But I won’t hold it against you, Princey.

ROMAN: Thank you… Dookie.

REMUS: Ha! I love it, that was a good one, Nickel Romeo! Now, may you introduce me to your friends?

ROMAN: [angry] What about my brother!?

REMUS: Hush… Roman. Your [making the quotation mark gesture] “brother” is fine. [slightly threatening voice] Don’t put that on risk just for… rushing up. Okay, I already knew your lovebird. Virgil, it was? And here is Deceit… Oooh… so terrifying with that makeup and colored lens.

DECEIT: How do you…?

REMUS: Honey, the paint is really noticeable. I don’t blame you, it must have been the rush. Other times the scales looked quite more realistic, you know?

DECEIT: [sighs] Maybe because they were real back then?

REMUS: Oh, so you were a real snake back then? How fun… I love slimy, slippery things on my body… [looks at Patton and Logan] Oh, and I presume you are Patton and Logan. Let’s see… Same glasses… similar logos…  Same boring appearance… I wonder who’s copying who, but anyway you both suck at styling, so…

LOGAN: [screeching] FALSEHOOD!

PATTON: [angry squealing] If you keep talking about Logan like that, I will physically fight you!

VIRGIL: [low voice] Oh, good… for once it’s not me to whom he says that…

REMUS: [mocking Patton] Oooh… I’m shaking… please don’t bite me, I’m not vaccinated against rabies…

THOMAS: It seems you haven been watching us for a long time.

REMUS: Oh, indeed, I have. And you are Thomas, or as some call you, the Light Master.

THOMAS: Don’t call me like that again, please.

REMUS: [giggles] Roman, can you tell Thomas about the funniest trait about me?

ROMAN: [sighs] You can’t force Remus out of a topic of conversation and you can’t make him stop saying whatever he wants whenever it pleases him.

REMUS: Got it, Light Master? Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ve been called worse… For instance…

THOMAS: [interrupting him] Since when have you been watching us, may I ask?

REMUS: Well, let’s see… Every breath you took, every move you made, I was watching you, all the time since your childhood…

THOMAS: That’s creepy…

REMUS: Until Roman banished me here. When was that? I think around… twenty years ago or so, right, Roman? Yes, around 20 years ago.

THOMAS: But I’ve known Roman since I was, like, three, and he never mentioned you any single time, neither I saw you, not even once.

REMUS: However, I was there, Thomas. Every time you had a creepy idea, or had a horrifying nightmare, or something… twisted crossed your mind… that was me playing around. And even after I was taken here and wasn’t there to see you, and even though I didn’t even know where you were, you could feel my influence from here, diminished by the distance, but still very present. My… your poor aunt Patty has gone through so much in your mind thanks to me.

THOMAS: But why didn’t I see you when you were close to me?

REMUS: Well…

ROMAN: [interrupting him] Umm… please, Remus. What have you done with my brother? Give him back to me, I beg you!

REMUS: [scoffs] Oh… this was unexpected. So, now you’re begging? [serious face] Didn’t I beg you twenty years ago? Didn’t I beg you not to leave me here like a stray puppy? [angry] I was only a child and you abandoned me here! Did you listen to me back then? Then why should I listen to you now?

ROMAN: You know very well what happened, Remus.

REMUS: Yes, you and I know very well what happened. [evil smile] But does Thomas know? And your other friends? Logan, Patton, Virgil, Deceit and… [noticing someone’s missing] wait a minute, where are Honesty and Wrath? [angry] I told you to bring all of them here, Roman!

[Honesty materializes next to Deceit]

HONESTY: I’m here, Remus. And Wrath… or Ira… is dead. The Dark Master killed him, and I got trapped in Deceit’s body because of him.

REMUS: Oh, is that so? Well, you’re honesty, why would you lie? And to be honest I saw the Dark Master coming from a mile away to your wedding. I had to make a strategic retreat when I sensed him coming. It wasn’t in my plans to be noticed by him, you know.

[Honesty disappears]

REMUS: Okay, where was I…? Oh, yes. Your brother, Roman. You desperately want him back, right?

ROMAN: Yes.

REMUS: Well, he’s in my castle on top of the hill. If you want him so bad, go get him. If you have the guts, that is.

ROMAN: I presume you didn’t make it easy, did you?

REMUS: Of course I didn’t. A high prize requires a high effort, doesn’t it? You will have to face five challenges while inside the castle walls. I had prepared seven, but since Wrath won’t be able to join us, and Honesty is a little tied to Deceit, I’ll give you Wrath’s for free and Honesty will do his challenge with Deceit. Because, yes, each challenge will be directly addressed to one of the Sides, even though the rest will be able to help him to some extent. Don’t worry, I didn’t make impossible challenges. The game wouldn’t have any emotion if I was already the winner in advance, don’t you think? Win these challenges and I’ll give you your brother safe and tight. Lose and… well, you already know what happens if you lose.

THOMAS: So I don’t have any challenges.

REMUS: Boy, you are doing all the challenges. They are your Sides, remember?

LOGAN: Any rules we must abide to?

REMUS: Oh, only two rules. Rule number one. No retreating into Thomas’ body. As soon as you try that stunt, the Prince Guy will immediately die.

ROMAN: Don’t you dare!

REMUS: [suddenly staring right in front of Roman’s face with a deep, threatening voice] No, don’t you dare break that rule, understand? [back with the others and normal voice] And rule number two… There are no more rules at all. I can do whatever I want and you can do whatever you want, except what has been forbidden, to win the challenges. That makes it more fun.

ROMAN: That’s it. That’s the proof that you are making us go through a rigged game. It’s obviously a trap.

REMUS: Maybe… [threatening voice] But if you don’t go through that trap, I swear that your precious brother will feel every minute while I wipe him out of existence. I’m Creativity too, Roman. I can make and erase characters as easy as you can, and you know it.

ROMAN: [sighs] Okay. I accept your challenges.

THOMAS: And so do we. How do we start?

REMUS: Just go to the castle. The fun will begin as soon as you cross the door. I will be waiting for you at the throne room, with the Prince Guy… Oh, did I mention that you only have one hour before the Prince Guy vanishes? The clock is starting any minute now, so if I were you I would hurry to the door. Good luck, guys!

[Remus disappears]

ROMAN: I’m sorry, guys, I’m making you go through this.

THOMAS: Roman, what was he talking about? Why did you have to leave Remus here?

ROMAN: [nervous] It’s a long story, Thomas, and our time is short right now. Let’s go.

[Roman starts walking towards the castle and the others follow him]

DECEIT: What are you hiding, Roman? If you know something about Remus that we don’t know, I think we have the right to know it too. We’re about to fight against him for you, remember?

ROMAN: [Roman stops, turns around and yells] I know! [nervous breathing, anxious face and slight stuttering, he’s shaking as if he was on the verge of a panic attack] But… please… not now… I… I’m not ready yet. I promise I will tell you, guys… but please, not now… please…

[Virgil runs and hugs Roman, who hugs him back and starts crying on his shoulder]

VIRGIL: [petting Roman’s hair, with a sweet calming voice] Calm down, Roman. It’s okay… It’s okay… Remember you are among friends and you’re safe right now. Breath like I taught you and everything will be fine…

THOMAS: We won’t force you into doing anything you don’t wanna do. We’ll wait till you’re ready to share it with us.

DECEIT: [remorseful voice] I’m sorry, Roman. I didn’t mean to push you… If I had known it was something so harsh and so personal for you, I wouldn’t even have brought it up.

ROMAN: [more calm, after letting go of Virgil, cleaning his eyes with his hand] It’s okay, Deceit. It’s normal that you have worries, and I know that I should tell you what happened. It’s just that the stress of seeing my brother in danger and Remus’ threats… it just made me go over the edge and it all came out at once. But I’ll be fine. For you and for my brother, I gotta be fine.

THOMAS: You really love your brother, the Prince Guy, don’t you.

ROMAN: Well, you have three brothers yourself, Thomas, you already know how brotherly love feels, don’t you?

THOMAS: Yeah, I know. And that makes me wonder what could have happened between Remus and you that could make you two hate each other like that, when at the end of the day you are brothers too.

ROMAN: [sighs] It’s complicated, Thomas. For the time being, I’ll just tell you that in the Prince Guy, I found love, support, affection, a confident, an ally… I’d gladly give my own life for him. I don’t wanna lose him.

THOMAS: Then you won’t! We’ll help you go through these challenges and bring him back to you! You’ll see!

[all the Sides nod in agreement]

ROMAN: Thank you guys… Now let’s go. We cannot waste any more time.

[Thomas and the Sides keep on walking. After a couple of minutes, they reach the castle. They get to the front door. Roman reaches his hand to the knob, but suddenly becomes hesitant]

ROMAN: Okay… here we are…

VIRGIL: Are you scared?

ROMAN: Who wouldn’t? I mean, not even I, who know Remus very well, could imagine what his twisted mind could have prepared for us behind this door… But anyway, we have no choice. Let’s do it and hope for the best. Are you ready, guys?

THOMAS: As ready as we’ll ever be… Now, open the door.

ROMAN: Okay…

[Roman turns the knob and the door opens. Inside, there is only darkness, even when there’s light entering from the outside]

ROMAN: Oh, great, just what we needed. I hate the dark.

VIRGIL: Hold my hand, we’ll come in together.

ROMAN: Thank you, my love.

[Everybody enters, Roman and Virgil together, the others one by one. When they come in, the door slams shut and they’re left in the dark]

LOGAN: It’s the first time that, when forced into the dark, Princey doesn’t start screaming like a little girl…

ROMAN: Oh, come on, Logan. I have nothing to fear when my husband is with me. [yelling] Okay, Remus, we’re here. You can start with your challenges already!

[Suddenly several torches light around them. The sudden light blinds them for a second, but soon they see they’re in a room with a round pit in the center. Faint light is also coming from the pit. There’s no sign of the door through which they came in, only walls in all directions. Remus’ voice is heard from above]

REMUS: Very well. Let’s go with the first challenge.

[They suddenly hear canine whining. They look where the sound comes from and they see a cage hanging from a chain just above the pit. Inside, there’s a cute little puppy with a distressed face, crying]

PATTON: Oh, no! What is he going to do with that puppy!?

REMUS: The first challenge is for Patton. You really love dogs, don’t you? And you would do anything to save them from a horrible destiny, wouldn’t you? Well, now it’s your chance. You have seen the little dog, his name is Muser.

THOMAS: Muser?

REMUS: What? It’s a cute name for a cute boi. I think I don’t need to say what the challenge is, Patton. You have to save that dog from falling down that pit, which is full of fire and flames… on the side of my face… You must get the dog out of the cage safely out of the pit to win the challenge. The others can help you as they want, but only Patton can touch the cage and the dog. Hurry up. You don’t wanna see the cute dog turned into a hot dog, do you?

[the chain suddenly creaks and the cage descends a couple of inches, the dog, scared, whines louder]

PATTON: Hold on, little puppy, I’ll save you! Guys, what should I do?

LOGAN: Let’s see… the cage is too far away from the edge, so you can’t reach it from here with your bare hands.

PATTON: Maybe with the stretchy arm?

[Patton tries to stretch his arm, but nothing happens]

REMUS: Oh, did I mention that the stretchy arm doesn’t work inside the castle walls? Too bad…

PATTON: Heckity heck! Sorry for my foul language. Then what do we do?

LOGAN: Let me think… only you can touch the cage or the dog. And you can’t reach it from here… Okay… I think I might have got something. Roman, you’re always boasting about how strong you are. We all know that it’s just in your imagination…

[Roman emits some offended Princey noises]

LOGAN: …but since we are in the land of imagination, perhaps your strength could be real here… let’s try something. Grab Virgil by the ankles, and try to lift him as high as you can.

ROMAN: Okay…

[Roman grabs Virgil and lifts him. To the surprise of everyone, including Roman, he lifts Virgil over his head as if Virgil was light as a feather]

ROMAN: [in disbelief] I did it…? [to Logan, proud of himself] Ha! Did you see how I did it? I’m strong!

LOGAN: [unimpressed] Of course you are, Roman. Another experiment, try to throw Virgil…

VIRGIL: Hey, Logan! Are you trying to make my husband throw me into the pit or something? I heard that as soon as we got married, he would make me fall into the flames of passion, but this is ridiculous!

LOGAN: Will you let me finish, please? Deceit, stand on the other edge of the room. Roman, let’s see how far you can throw Virgil. Try to throw him to Deceit so that he can catch Virgil. At least, try to save the distance equivalent to the pit, if you can. I suppose your aim is as good as your strength right now, so aim at Deceit, not at the pit. We don’t wanna have roasted panther for dinner.

VIRGIL: [frowning] Very funny, Logan.

PATTON: [mumbling to himself, partly squealing] He’s made a joke… I’m so proud of him.

ROMAN: Okay, I think I see where you’re going… Ready, Virgil?

VIRGIL: No, but I guess I have no choice. Let’s do it already.

ROMAN: Ready, Deceit?

DECEIT: Of course not!

ROMAN: I’ll take that as a yes. Okay… here I go! Catch him, Deceit!

[Roman throws Virgil]

VIRGIL: [flying in the air] Whooooaaaaaaa!

[Virgil flies all across the room and falls on Deceit, they both end on the floor]

DECEIT: Ouch… That didn’t hurt me at all!

VIRGIL: Well, it did hurt me! You were supposed to grab me, Deceit!

DECEIT: And you were not supposed to fall on my arms, not on my head, Virgil!

ROMAN: I’m sorry, guys!

LOGAN: Okay, the experiment has been a success. This is the plan. Roman, you’re gonna grab Patton and throw him over the pit, so that he can grab the cage on the fly and land at the other side of the pit, saving the dog in the process.

PATTON: Oh, my goodness… I’m scared…

ROMAN: Don’t worry, Patton I’ll throw you with all my might, so that you land safely on the other side of the pit. You’ve seen I could do it with Virgil, and he’s always carrying the heavy burden of his soul over his shoulders, and also all the fries he ate these last weeks on the vacation island. You, being such a puffball, will be much lighter.

VIRGIL: Um… are you implying that I got weight, honey? Because I still have sharp nails and I still remember how to scratch faces from my panther days.

ROMAN: Sorry, my lightest kitty Virgil.

PATTON: But what if I just crash on the cage, and the dog and I fall to our doom?

LOGAN: If he throws you with enough might, you won’t fall, your weight will push you with the cage to the other side of the pit and you’ll land there safely. Don’t be afraid.

PATTON: Wouldn’t you be afraid?

ROMAN: I know it’s scary, but don’t be weary. Cause we don’t have much long, let’s not waste it feeling wrong.

THOMAS: Quoting my dear friend dodie. I love it.

PATTON: Okay… I hope your calculations are right, Logan.

LOGAN: I’m always right, Patton.

DECEIT: [loudly] Ahem…

LOGAN: [frowning at Deceit] Okay… almost always, but this time I’m right. Patton, remember that you must catch the cage while you are in the air, okay?

PATTON: But I’m not good at catching things, Logan. I don’t know if I can do this…

LOGAN: Yes, you can, Patton. You are more intelligent and more capable than what you give yourself credit for. It’s your chance to proof it now. I trust you, so trust yourself.

ROMAN: I trust you too.

THOMAS: And so do I.

VIRGIL: You can do this, dad.

DECEIT: I don’t trust you… I mean, I do. Sorry, I’m nervous.

HONESTY: [from inside Deceit’s body] Now go get that puppy and make sure Muser gets a good home when we’re out of this.

PATTON: Thank you, kiddos. I’ll do my best.

ROMAN: Okay, I’ll grab you.

[Roman grabs Patton by the wrist and gets in front of the pit. He aims at the cage and calculates how to throw him]

LOGAN: Remember, Patton, open your arms and when you get to the cage, grab it. Got it?

PATTON: Got it, Logan.

ROMAN: Okay, here I go.

[Roman walks back a few steps until he gets close to the back wall, then runs and throws Patton aiming at the cage. Patton flies over the pit. When Patton gets to the cage, he grabs it. Inertia makes Patton and the cage move forward, and the chain breaks on the side of the cage. However, the weigh of the cage is too much and he’s not gonna make it. Patton has one second to hold the cage with one hand and grab the chain with the other one, and he gets suspended over the pit]

ROMAN: Patton!

VIRGIL: Dad!

THOMAS: Patton, hold on!

PATTON: [scared, struggling] I’m trying, but this cage weighs too much!

[the dog whines in terror inside the cage]

LOGAN: I miscalculated… I didn’t consider the weight of the cage…

PATTON: Please, help me! I don’t think I can last much longer!

DECEIT: The first thing you must do is getting rid of the extra weight!

PATTON: What!? No! I’m not dropping Muser! That would be wrong!

DECEIT: Patton, this is not the moment for a lesson in morality! You will both fall down if you don’t let it go!

PATTON: But I can’t! Not only because I cannot let the dog go, but also because we would lose the challenge if we did that!

DECEIT: Who cares about losing the challenge if we’re going to lose you!?

PATTON: I do care about losing the challenge! It’s Roman’s brother we’re talking about, we can’t leave him!

LOGAN: Okay… I must think fast… Patton, try to sway the cage left and right, like a pendulum. Can you do it without falling?

PATTON: I’ll try.

THOMAS: What’s your plan, Logan?

LOGAN: Maybe Patton can throw the cage out of the pit, and then he would be free to hold the chain with both hands.

[Patton does as Logan told him and he sways the cage left and right. In doing so, the chain also starts swaying left and right]

LOGAN: Okay, when you’re close to the edge, throw the cage with all your might out of the pit.

[Patton throws the cage. It falls next to the edge, but lands safely]

LOGAN: Well done! Guys, don’t touch the cage, remember the challenge is not ov…

PATTON: [horrified] Aaah!

[Logan doesn’t have time to finish the sentence as the chain breaks and Patton starts falling]

ROMAN: [yelling in distress] Patton!

[A purple shadow grabs Patton in the air and lands with him next to the cage]

THOMAS: What was that?

VIRGIL: [breathing loudly, holding Patton by the hips, they’re both on the floor] The rule said that we couldn’t touch the cage. It didn’t say anything about not touching Patton. And certainly I wasn’t going to let my father fall into that pit!

PATTON: [hugging Virgil, emotional] Thank you, son! Thank you! You saved me!

VIRGIL: [hugging him back] It was nothing.

ROMAN: It was nothing? Do you realize the jump you have just made? Not even Mike Powell could perform a jump like that!

VIRGIL: It was a fight or flight reflex… I saw my father falling, I jumped. I didn’t care if I fell with him or not, I only knew I had to grab him, and I did.

PATTON: I’m so proud of you, kiddo.

VIRGIL: No, dad, I am the one who’s proud of you. You did it! You won the challenge!

LOGAN: Well, not yet. Patton you need to set the dog free. Open the cage and the challenge will be complete.

PATTON: Oh, that’s right. Come here buddy… Good boi…

[Patton opens the cage. The puppy immediately jumps out, barks happily… and then jumps into the pit]

PATTON: [horrified] Noooo!

[the dog then reappears levitating from the pit. To the surprise of everyone, it now sports a mustache and starts speaking with Remus’ voice]

REMUS: Woof, woof! Thank you so much for saving me, Patton… [giggles] You should have seen your face!

LOGAN: So you were the dog all the time… and you named him Muser? [face of realization] Oooh… ooh, that’s brilliant!

VIRGIL: Why are you complimenting him?

LOGAN: Muser… it’s an anagram of Remus! He disguised himself and put the clue right in our face, like…

THOMAS: Like the Master, from Doctor Who. Yes, I know you’re the part of me that loves that series, but this is not the time for complimenting the enemy, Logan.

LOGAN: You’re right, sorry… [geeking out like a fanboy] But it was great, how he almost reversed his name as if he was reversing the polarity of the neutron flow… [noticing Thomas frowning at him] okay, sorry, I’ll be quiet.

PATTON: You’re mean, Remus, you scared the ship out of me! Sorry for the foul language, kiddos.

REMUS: [mocking him] Oh, did I? I didn’t even notice.

ROMAN: Okay, Remus, the first challenge is complete. What comes next?

[Remus shapeshifts into his real form, still levitating]

REMUS: Sure, you passed the first challenge, and the door to the second challenge is right there.

THOMAS: Where? I can’t see any door!

REMUS: Are you sure none of you needs glasses? It’s right there!

[Remus points to a wall and everybody looks where he’s pointing. There is a door that didn’t exist earlier. When they look back at Remus, he has disappeared]

ROMAN: Where did he go?

REMUS: [voice] I’m always watching you. By the way, you’ve got 44 minutes and four challenges left. I hope you’re ready four it. But anyway, you’d better hurry.

LOGAN: Ugh… another pungeon master… Okay, let’s go.

[The gang approaches the door. It opens before them. Behind the door, there’s a corridor where they come in. When they’re all in, the door closes and disappears. They start walking through the corridor]

THOMAS: I feel as if I was part of Alice in Wonderland, but creepier.

VIRGIL: I normally like creepy, but when it’s us who must go through the creepy, I don’t like it so much.

LOGAN: Look, there’s a door at the end. It’s closed.

[The gang approaches the door. On the floor there’s an indigo tile, just in front of the door. The next few steps are also full of tiles with other colors of the rainbow and a white tile]

THOMAS: What’s the meaning of all these bright colored tiles on the floor? The rest of the floor is totally gray… [a noise is heard and the floor starts shaking] …I think I’m already regretting asking that.

REMUS: [his voice is heard] These tiles are for you, one for each of you. You know your colors, so hurry and stand each on your tile before it’s too late.

[Logan stands on the indigo tile next to the door. The others stand on their respective colors and Thomas on the white tile. As soon as they do, the rest of the floor collapses and sinks down, revealing a huge cliff]

THOMAS: What is it with Remus and falling stunts?

ROMAN: Well, if I’m a Disney prince, obviously he’s gonna be a Disney villain, and you already know how most of Disney villains end, don’t you? Maybe he’s getting used to the idea the fate that awaits him?

THOMAS: Wow, that was dark… but it makes sense…

REMUS: [giggling] It really was dark! I love it, brother! Now, on with the next challenge. Logan, this is for you.

LOGAN: I’m ready.

REMUS: As you can see, there’s that door, and there on the side, there’s a keyboard with numbers on it, from 0 to 9. You must choose the correct sequence of numbers to open the door. If you choose the wrong sequence, the colored tiles may lose… stability. You have my permission to jump to other tiles if yours is bound to fall, but be careful when you do. You don’t wanna throw the occupant to the abyss, do you?

LOGAN: Okay… A sequence of numbers… This could mean anything…

ROMAN: Umm… Is this of any help to you at all?

LOGAN: What?

ROMAN: There are Roman numbers engraved on my tile.

LOGAN: Roman numbers?

THOMAS: Yes, there are Roman numbers on my tile too.

DECEIT: Here too.

PATTON: I don’t have numbers… I have letters…

LOGAN: Are these letters on the range of I, C, V, X, L, D and M?

PATTON: Yes?

LOGAN: Okay, more Roman numbers.

PATTON: Those are Roman numbers? Why did you choose to write numbers like that, Roman?

ROMAN: What?

LOGAN: [sighs] We mean Roman numbers, from the Roman empire, not from Roman the Princey… Okay… Let’s see if that gives us some kind of clue… Thomas, what’s in your tile?

THOMAS: It’s in three rows. It reads… CCLV, the same three times.

LOGAN: Okay, that’s 255, three times… What about you, Roman?

ROMAN: Mine reads… CCLV, and that’s it.

LOGAN: Another 255, but only one? How about you, Patton?

PATTON: Mine is in two rows. It reads… CCV and CCLV.

LOGAN: Again 255, but we get a new number before, a 205… Deceit, what about you?

DECEIT: Mine reads CCLV, but two times.

LOGAN: Again 255, two times this time? And Virgil?

VIRGIL: Okay… Mine reads CCX and CCLV. But there’s a huge blank space between the rows.

LOGAN: A huge blank space? And it reads 210 and another 255? Oh… Oh, I think I get it!

THOMAS: Illuminate us.

LOGAN: I can’t, Thomas, I’m not carrying a torch.

THOMAS: [sighs] Sorry, I forgot to add… “figuratively”.

LOGAN: Oh, apologies… Thomas, you’ve worked extensively with video editing, right?

THOMAS: Right.

LOGAN: And with that, you’ve used software with which you’ve manipulated color on images, right?

THOMAS: Right, sometimes.

LOGAN: How do you directly manipulate colors on a computerized image? Usually the software does it for you, but if you wanted to choose a specific color and tone by hand, you’d need to use RGB codes! What is written on the tiles are the RGB codes belonging to the color of your tiles, only that using Roman numbers.

PATTON: What are RGB codes?

LOGAN: Well, RGB stands for Red, Green, Blue. As you probably know, white light can be divided into these three basic colors. When mixed in different amounts, these colors produce all the more than 16 million colors from the spectrum. To simplify the process, a computer divides these amounts of basic colors into 256 different possible quantities, counting from 0 to 255, being 0 the total absence of that color and 255 the maximum quantity. The first number corresponds to the amount of red color, the second to the amount of green color, and the third to the amount of blue color. The computer mixes these quantities of basic colors and produces the desired end color for your use.

PATTON: Gotcha.

LOGAN: Thomas, the code written on your tile is “255, 255, 255”, which belongs to color white, that is, the maximum amount of all the basic colors. Roman has a single 255, which, if we add two zeros, belongs to color red, as it has the max of red color and none of the other colors. Virgil has a huge gap between rows because color for purple is 210,0,255. The gap stands for the zero, as Romans didn’t know the number zero and therefore there’s no sign for it. That’s what gave me the clue.

VIRGIL: Okay, great, so now we know our respective colors in RGB codes. How is that going to help us open the door?

LOGAN: I… [beat] …don’t know.

ROMAN: Okay, great way to build up hopes for nothing, Logan.

PATTON: Well, at least we learned something new today.

DECEIT: What’s the use if we’re gonna stay here forever?

HONESTY: [from inside Deceit] Guys, don’t give up. That has to mean something.

LOGAN: If we only knew what it is… I’m open to ideas, guys, any help is greatly appreciated.

THOMAS: Yes, I’m thinking too… but I can’t come up with anything. I suppose it’s normal, since you’re my logical thinking. If you can’t come up with anything, neither can I, I guess…

PATTON: [looking at the sign written on his tile] CCLV… It’s funny that all the tiles have that same symbol… Logan, does your tile have it too?

LOGAN: Let’s see… hmm… that’s odd.

PATTON: What?

LOGAN: There are no Roman numbers on my tile. None at all. It’s weird that among all of the tiles, it’s my tile in front of the door the only one without numbers…

ROMAN: What would be the symbols if there were. I’m just curious at this point.

LOGAN: Let’s see… Indigo color… [closes his eyes and concentrates for a couple of seconds] the numbers are… 10, 35, 150… In Roman numbers, it would be X, XXXV, CL. How odd, it’s the only code that doesn’t have a 255.

ROMAN: How odd, so many X's there…

THOMAS: How did you calculate what code belongs to indigo so fast by heart, Logan?

LOGAN: I’m your brain, Thomas. A human brain is better than the best super-computer mankind could ever build. It’s feelings what make humans unable of using the full capacity of their brains. I’m not gonna say anymore that I don’t have feelings, and I acknowledge that feelings are good in humans, because they’re humans, not machines, but I can brush feelings off when I need it. Trust me, the code is correct.

VIRGIL: Is no one going to remind him that he miscalculated earlier on the pit?

LOGAN: [angry] Okay, fine, I made a mistake! But that’s because feelings got in the way because I…

[stops mid sentence, looks at Patton and blushes]

THOMAS: …because you were afraid of putting Patton in mortal danger. Is that what you were going to say?

LOGAN: Yes. Because Patton is my friend. And I don’t want anything bad happening to him, or anyone of you, much less being the cause of it.

PATTON: Aww, Logan. I love you too!

LOGAN: I didn’t say…

PATTON: [with a cute smile] Yes, you did, Indicool Teacher.

LOGAN: Indicool? That’s not even a word… that’s just a portmanteau of the words “indigo” and “cool” and I don’t see how that could make any sense, other than meaning that indigo is cool… [sudden face of realization] Indigo is cool! Oh, my goodness… I think I got it! I think I got the code that opens the door!

THOMAS: Really?

LOGAN: What code is the only code that wouldn’t appear engraved on the tiles? Exactly the code that would need to be entered to open the door! Guys, the code is 10, 35, 150, the code for indigo color, my color! That’s what makes indigo cool! It is the key to open the door! Well done giving me that clue, Patton!

PATTON: I don’t know what I said… but I love to be validated by Logan, so I’m not complaining.

THOMAS: That makes sense… And it could work!

ROMAN: So that’s why the Roman version of the code had so many X’s… an X marks the spot. Or in this case, a ton of X’s.

VIRGIL: Okay, Logan, are you sure? Remember that if you enter a code and it’s wrong, our tiles will fall loose.

LOGAN: The truth is I’m not sure of anything inside these castle walls, especially being Remus the referee on these challenges, but what else can we do? Wait here stuck until time runs out and Roman’s brother perishes?

ROMAN: Yes, we need to move forwards, whatever it is. We will all eventually perish anyway if we stay stuck here, including my brother. Staying still is no better than falling down at this point.

VIRGIL: I guess you’re right. Guys, everyone, get ready to hold on whatever you can or jump if you sense your tile going loose, okay?

[Thomas and the Sides nod in agreement]

THOMAS: Okay, Logan, we’re ready.

LOGAN: Here we go. I’ll add zeros to the left on the two-digit numbers… [Logan starts entering the code on the keyboard] 010… 035… 150… And now I press Enter…

[Logan presses the button. There’s a long silence]

LOGAN: Nothing happens? Seriously?

DECEIT: [angry and sarcastic] Oh, great, the best news! So, Remus’ plan is to leave us here to starve until we find the right code? What a father of a virgin that Remus is! I’m happy as can be to know that!

THOMAS: In moments like this, I’m glad that you speak in lies when you get nervous, Deceit. Thanks to that, you use the most polite swearwords…

[Suddenly, there’s a sound of a mechanism on the door]

LOGAN: Guys, look! I think the door is opening!

[There’s a screeching noise and the door opens]

THOMAS: [happy] Awesome! You’re so cool, Logan!

[Suddenly, there’s a cracking sound]

THOMAS: [scared] Uh-oh! My tile is going loose!

LOGAN: Oh, no! Guys, you’ve got to jump here!

[Roman jumps first and reaches to the indigo tile with Logan. Then Patton does the jump and, even though he lands on his knees, he also gets there]

DECEIT: It’s too far away for us! Maybe Virgil could make that jump, but not us!

VIRGIL: Hey, don’t think I could perform that kind of jump again! That was done unconsciously, I couldn’t reproduce it again in a million years!

ROMAN: You’ll have to jump to our tiles, which are closer to Logan’s! Hurry, before it’s too late!

[Virgil jumps to Roman’s tile, and Deceit to Patton’s tile. Then they jump to Logan’s tile and get to the door]

THOMAS: [scared] What about me, guys!?

ROMAN: Jump, Thomas!

THOMAS: But I was never good at sports! I’m gonna fall if I try!

ROMAN: You’re gonna fall anyway if you don’t try! Jump, now! Hurry, your tile is shaking! It’s gonna fall!

[Thomas desperately jumps. He lands awkwardly on Virgil’s spot. Just as he does so, the white tile falls into the abyss]

ROMAN: Great! Now, another jump, to my tile! [Deceit’s tile falls down] Come on, do it! Just do it!

[Thomas jumps again, and lands on Roman’s tile. Virgil’s tile falls down right behind him]

ROMAN: You’re almost here, Thomas! [Patton’s tile falls down] You can do it! Jump here, quickly!

[Thomas jumps again to Logan’s tile, just as Roman’s tile falls. He lands right on the edge and loses balance. He’s about to fall but Roman grabs him]

ROMAN: Gotcha! Well done, Thomas!

THOMAS: Thank you, Roman.

[Logan’s tile starts shaking]

ROMAN: Now let’s get out of here before this tile falls down too!

[They cross the door. As soon as they do, the door slams shut and everything goes pitch black]

VIRGIL: [sarcastic] Cool, total darkness again. Not even the Dark Realm was so dark… This is getting monotonous… [silence. Virgil gets concerned] Guys? Guys, are you there? Why aren’t you answering me? [scared, yelling] Guys! Where are you!?

REMUS: [voice] Calm down, emo.

VIRGIL: [startled] GAH! Oh, it’s you… Great. I was calling my friends, not you.

REMUS: Too bad that you only got me this time. You’re friends are not… available for the time being.

VIRGIL: Wait, what? But they were with me a second ago! What have you done to them!?

REMUS: It’s up to you to find out! Behold the third challenge, which is for you. As you can see… or should I say, can’t see, everything’s pitch black. Your friends are in this hall, somewhere, and it’s up to you to find them. You will hear them calling for you, as well as other… voices around. You must distinguish where do your friends’ voices come from and avoid the fake voices, because they are… not very friendly. You’ll win the challenge if you reach to your friends.

VIRGIL: And how do I distinguish them in this darkness!? This isn’t fair!

REMUS: You should stop complaining and start searching, brother-in-law. You only have 25 minutes left, and your brother-in-law needs you.

[Voices start being heard all around Virgil]

VIRGIL: Great, just as I thought. This is impossible. Although Remus said none of the challenges is truly impossible, and so far it’s been so, but… is he trustworthy? Okay, I’ve gotta try, anyway, so… [yelling] Guys? Guys, where are you?

ROMAN: [voice in the distance] Virgil, I’m here! Come to me, my love!

VIRGIL: Roman? Is that you? Wait… how do I know if it’s really you? Okay, Virgil, control yourself, it’s not the time for paran… for that kind of thinking… Concentrate… I think I’ve got an idea. I know that I’m gonna regret to let this personal information out for everyone, but it’s my only chance, so here it goes. Roman, if it really is you… answer to this. What is my biggest fear in this world? I only told this to Roman in our room, in private, so only the real Roman can answer to this. Go ahead, and yell the answer so I can hear you.

ROMAN: Your biggest fear is losing me, of course! What else could it be?

VIRGIL: You’re a fake! That’s not my biggest fear! [to himself] At least not the one I told him…

[another answer is heard from another direction, loud and clear]

ROMAN: Your biggest fear is to end up turning Thomas into a hopeless paranoiac because of your own belief that you fail to control these paranoid thoughts yourself!

VIRGIL: Roman? Is that really you?

ROMAN: And to that I answered, “You are the Side that makes Thomas safe. You would never put Thomas in that situation on purpose, and if you sensed that you could do that, you have the talent of stopping yourself before going too far or even starting in the first place. You don’t have anything to fear.”

VIRGIL: [happy] It really is you!

[Virgil starts running in the direction where the answer came from, ignoring voices coming from other directions, until he bumps into Roman and falls over him]

ROMAN: Ouch! Whoa! Easy, Dark Stampede. I know I’m irresistible, but calm down.

VIRGIL: [chuckles] Shut up, you Disney Dork.

[Virgil kisses Roman. Then, the fake voices fade away and light returns to the room, revealing it is a huge, completely empty hall. The rest of the gang is there next to Virgil and Roman. They get up. Virgil looks awkwardly at Thomas]

VIRGIL: Okay… So now you all know why I’ve always hated being called a paranoiac. You can start calling me stupid all the time you like.

[Thomas hugs Virgil, and the Sides join in a group hug]

THOMAS: Virgil, I would never, ever call you stupid. On the contrary, I’m so, so proud of you. You had the courage to overcome your fears to save us, and I cannot thank you enough. And if it serves to calm you, I agree with Roman on everything. I know you’d do everything you can to avoid that happening to me, and I trust you. You don’t need to be afraid of that.

VIRGIL: Thank you, Thomas. That’s really comforting to hear.

DECEIT: Thank goodness this challenge was solved quickly. For some reason, our feet got frozen and we couldn’t move. And it’s the most pleasant feeling in the world, if you ask me.

PATTON: Yeah, when we crossed the door, it’s like some mysterious force pulled us away from you and placed us here, stuck, unable to speak at first while Remus was explaining the challenge to you. It’s so great to be able to move again.

[light flickers off then goes on after a couple of seconds]

ROMAN: Wow… faulty lights. Did Remus pay his bills?

REMUS: [his voice is heard] Did you guys know that “dork” means “whale penis”. Virgil called Roman a “whale penis”, is what I’m saying.

THOMAS: [sighs] I don’t think I needed to know that information…

REMUS: Okay, congratulations, Virgil. You’ve completed this challenge pretty fast. It only took you three minutes, so you’ve got 22 minutes left. And little you know that… just right now, you are already immerse in the fourth challenge.

VIRGIL: What? What does that mean?

REMUS: Well, it means that there’s an impostor among you. One of you is still trapped somewhere in this room and I replaced him by a doppelganger, who is sitting between you acting as if he was your friend.

VIRGIL: I don’t believe you!

REMUS: Did you notice the light going off and on? Two seconds is all the time I needed to replace one of you with the doppelganger. You can believe or not, I don’t care, but if you don’t discover who he is, you know what fate awaits to your precious Prince Guy. Oh, I almost forgot, this challenge is for you, Deceit. You pride yourself as a living lie detector. Let’s see if you are as good at discovering liars as you think you are, shall we?

DECEIT: Great, so now it’s up to me to find a culprit. And how do I do that?

VIRGIL: Well, I’m certainly not the culprit.

ROMAN: Me neither.

LOGAN: Me neither.

PATTON: Me neither.

THOMAS: Me neither.

DECEIT: So, no one is the culprit, right? [sarcastic] That’s surprising. Well, one of you is certainly lying. Who is it?

HONESTY: Just in case, I’m inside of you, so I’m not the culprit either.

DECEIT: Yes, Hon, you’re the only one we can discard from the start, don’t worry… Speaking about that… [points at an empty spot and Honesty materializes] I wouldn’t mind if I had you as my Watson in this case, Honesty.

HONESTY: I’d be honored.

PATTON: Hmm… this sound familiar…

LOGAN: Of course it does, Patton. You and I played Sherlock and Watson when we were searching for the culprit for Thomas’ procra…

ROMAN: Okay, okay, Logan, it’s not the time to wander down Memory Lane. There’s not much time.

LOGAN: Sorry.

DECEIT: Certainly, whoever the culprit is, he’s a really good actor. How could we find out who he is…? Let’s see… Maybe we can use the method Virgil used to locate Roman in the dark. Remus has clearly been spying on us for a long time, so only things that we have told each other in private could be used to find the culprit… Now I wish I had been closer to you, guys, but Watson… I mean, Honesty can help me on that matter, since he’s known you for so long… Okay, Honesty, you’ll make questions to the Sides, about things you’ve talked about in private, things that only Honesty and the Side in question could know.

HONESTY: Okay… let’s start with Roman.

ROMAN: Fine! At last I’m the first to be called on an interview… I mean… yes, I’m ready.

HONESTY: What were your sensations about that show Thomas did on stage? Remember? The one from the Scottish Play curse?

ROMAN: Oh, goodness… what a throwback… Well, certainly that cursed the show, at least for Thomas. I mean, slipping right on stage and fall on your butt in front of the audience… Not only Thomas’ posterior got bruised, I got quite bruised myself. I never wanted to tell Thomas so as not to pull him down, but that’s what I felt.

THOMAS: Oh, Roman, I’m so sorry to hear that. I had no idea!

HONESTY: Okay, Deceit, the test has been done with Roman. He’s…

DECEIT: Wait, Honesty, don’t say it yet, I want to check all the data together before making my mind up about who’s the culprit…

HONESTY: Okay, as you wish, Deceit.

DECEIT: Now let’s go on with the next one.

HONESTY: Yes… let’s go on with Logan.

LOGAN: Answering questions is what I live for. I’m ready.

HONESTY: Logan, there was this book you told me about…

LOGAN: [screeching] BOOK!?

VIRGIL: [startled] GAH! Gosh… you had to do that here too, Logan?

LOGAN: [clears throat] Apologies. Go ahead, Honesty.

HONESTY: [beat] …A book you couldn’t stop reading, but you told me that the end ruined it for you. What book was that?

LOGAN: Aahh… you mean the mystery thriller “Doorsteps Ahead” by the renowned Srednas Samoht. Yes, I was loving that book, until the end ruined it for me. It was when it was discovered that the murderer was…

THOMAS: Logan, please! If you like that book, I’d like to read it too, don’t spoil it!

LOGAN: …okay, I won’t say who it was, I’ll just say that it was quite unrealistic how they suddenly mentioned their identity out of nowhere with no previous context or build up. That’s all.

HONESTY: Good. Deecey, did you find that useful for your investigation?

DECEIT: Yes, quite a lot, actually.

HONESTY: Let’s go on with Patton.

PATTON: Okay, kiddo.

HONESTY: I want you to tell me what was the first dad joke you ever told me when we met.

PATTON: Oof, I’ve told a lot of dad jokes.

HONESTY: However, you know this one, because it has been a private joke of us that we don’t share with others.

PATTON: Oh, that one. Yes. Okay, it’s not one of my best, but here it goes. How do you make holy water? You boil the hell out of it.

[All the Sides but Thomas and Logan laugh]

LOGAN: [grunts, then talking to himself] It’s for scientific purposes… it’s for scientific purposes… Contain the urge of strangling him… [noticing the others watching him] Did I say that outloud?

THOMAS: I don’t get it.

PATTON: Okay, sorry, Thomas. That one was from years ago, and I still had a lot to improve in my punnery.

HONESTY: I always found it funny, Patton, don’t worry. Okay, the test is finished with Patton.

DECEIT: Cool. Now, I’ll be the one interrogating Virgil, if you don’t mind. I’m the most suited as I’ve known him longer than you.

HONESTY: I share all your memories with you, so I know everything that you know, and by the way, you also know everything that I know, so you could have done all the questions yourself anyway. But, whatever, you’re in charge of the challenge. Suit yourself.

DECEIT: Thank you… Okay, Virgil. Remember when we first met in the Dark Realm?

VIRGIL: Of course I do.

DECEIT: What was the first thing you told me and the first thing I told you?

VIRGIL: The first thing you told me was “Nice whiskers”, and I answered back with “Nice scales”. Then I told you my name and you told me your name, it was…

DECEIT: [nervous] It’s okay, Virgil. You don’t have to say that.

VIRGIL: Oh, okay…

THOMAS: Why not? Virgil, tell us Deceit’s name! I wanna know it!

VIRGIL: Sorry, Thomas. Deceit must tell his name whenever he’s ready to share it with us, just like me.

THOMAS: Oh, bugger!

DECEIT: Okay. With this, I leave this interrogatory as concluded. And I can tell with conviction that I know who the culprit is.

THOMAS: Wait, you’re not gonna ask me any questions?

DECEIT: It won’t be necessary, Thomas. I have already detected who among all of us is the impostor.

ROMAN: Well, who is it?

DECEIT: The impostor…

[dramatic pause, after a couple of seconds, he points at the culprit]

DECEIT: ...is you! “Thomas”!

THOMAS: Wait, what? Me? Are you kidding me? That’s not true!

DECEIT: I know you’re lying. What have you done with the real Thomas?

THOMAS: [suddenly switches to a cold, angry voice] F… [bleep] ! But you didn’t even ask me anything! How did you guess?

DECEIT: Simple. When Roman was talking about his feelings regarding to the work, he mentioned he got bruised. And you had no idea? The first one to feel Roman’s bruising would have been you. You would have known even before Roman himself, because you would have felt your ego crushed.

ROMAN: That’s right.

DECEIT: Then, you didn’t get Patton’s dad joke. Come on, Thomas is renowned online as “the Prince of Dad Jokes”. He would never fail to get a joke as simple and old as that one. Sorry Patton.

PATTON: It’s okay, kiddo. I know that’s an old one, that’s why I never use it anymore.

DECEIT: Then, there’s Logan. He talked about a book he read. And when he was on the verge of spoiling the ending, it was you who told him you hadn’t read it. Don’t you see that Logan is your acquired knowledge? If he says he’s read something, it’s because you’ve read it in the first place, so that it becomes part of your acquired knowledge and therefore part of Logan. The real Thomas would have known the book at the same time Logan did.

LOGAN: That is… accurate.

DECEIT: And last but not least, the stuff about Virgil and me, and that’s the loudest alarm. You didn’t care at all about about my reluctance over sharing my name. Thomas would have respected my wishes and not pushed me into revealing something I’m not comfortable to reveal. We saw it earlier outside with Roman.

VIRGIL: Quite true.

DECEIT: In short, you’ve got a lot to learn about impersonating others, whoever you are, even though I’m almost positive that you must be Remus, am I right?

[the fake Thomas shapeshifts into Remus]

REMUS: Yes, you’re right. Okay, challenge completed.

DECEIT: The best part is that for the first time I felt like being a part of a Scooby Doo episode unmasking a real Scooby Doo villain… Now, answer to my question. Where is Thomas and what have you done to him?

REMUS: Oh, don’t worry, he’s okay. If you want to get Thomas back, just follow the green brick road.

PATTON: What green brick road?

ROMAN: [pointing to the floor] That green brick road.

[They all look to the floor and there’s a path made of green bricks that wasn’t there before. When they look at Remus, he’s gone.]

REMUS: [voice] By the way, you only have 10 minutes left. I’ll be waiting at the end of the brick road for your final challenge, Roman. If you have what it takes to face me. Hurry up. This hall is bigger than you think.

ROMAN: I do, Remus. You’ll regret what you’ve done! Okay guys, we must hurry!

[The Sides start running through the path. They run and run, until, after minutes running, they reach the end of the hall. There, next to a door, they find Thomas. He’s chained to the wall]

THOMAS: Guys! Thank God you’re okay!

ROMAN: Thank God we are okay? No, sir, thank God you are okay! Hold on, I’ll open these chains, with one of my always-handy bobby-pins…

[Roman takes one bobby-pin off his hair and uses it to force the lock on the chains. Soon, Thomas is free]

THOMAS: Oh… thank you, Roman. It feels good being able to move my arms again. I was starting to get cramps. What happened?

ROMAN: It’s long to tell, but while you were gone, we’ve passed two challenges already. Now there’s only one challenge left, my challenge. Remus must be behind this door.

THOMAS: Then let’s not waste any more time, let’s go.

[Roman opens the door. There are stairs behind the door. They walk up the stairs until they get to a throne room. The Prince Guy is there, inside a cage hanging from a chain]

PRINCE GUY: Roman! You shouldn’t have come here!

ROMAN: Are you okay, brother? Did he hurt you?

PRINCE GUY: I’m fine… but I have the weirdest sensation now…

ROMAN: What? What does that mean?

REMUS: It means that you only have 3 minutes left to complete your challenge, Roman. Do you see that sand clock over there? It’s almost over. When the last grain of sand falls, your precious fake brother will disappear.

PRINCE GUY: Fake brother? Roman, what is he talking about?

ROMAN: Don’t listen to him. You are my brother, the only brother I have!

REMUS: [angry] That’s bulls… [bleep] ! You should tell him the truth, he deserves to know it before he’s gone! I am your brother, and you created him with your Creativity powers to supplant me!

PRINCE GUY: What!?

ROMAN: Shut up! Remus! You’re not my…! [he stops mid-sentence]

REMUS: [yelling angry] Brother! I’m your brother! Why don’t you ever want to call me like that, not even to deny that you are!?

ROMAN: Because I don’t feel you like that! Go ahead with your stupid challenge and let me go home with my brother now!

REMUS: [tranquil fury] And then it’s me who they call a monster… How would you describe someone who rejects his own blood because of his own ideas about good creativity and bad creativity? Fine, if you want to see me as a monster, I’ll be the monster you expect me to be. [pulls out a mace] Here’s the final challenge, Roman. You must defeat me in a one vs. one duel. If you kill me before time runs out, your precious doddle will be free.

ROMAN: I can’t do that and you know it! If I killed you I’d be killing myself too, and if that happened, everything I have created, the whole of Sandersia, would disappear, including my brother!

REMUS: Do you expect me to care about that? You said it yourself. The challenge was rigged anyway. Now fight!

ROMAN: [pulling out his sword] But if you kill me, you’d be killed too! Whatever it happens, we’ll both lose!

REMUS: I don’t care about that either! Fight or perish!

[Remus attacks Roman. He blocks the attack with his sword. Roman waves his sword several times to make him retreat. Then Remus attacks again, from the right, then from the left. Roman evades some attacks and blocks others]

REMUS: You’re just playing defense here! Why don’t you attack me already!? Come on! Fight me! Or are you too afraid to face me!?

ROMAN: I’m not afraid of you! I just don’t want to kill you!

REMUS: Too bad for you, then, because I do want to kill you! Now fight!

[Remus starts attacking with heightened fury. Roman finds increasingly difficult to block the attacks]

REMUS: You won’t last for long this way, brother. And you already know who’s gonna suffer the consequences! You only have 1 minute left! So say good-bye to your precious Prince Guy!

PRINCE GUY: Roman! Be careful!

[Thomas and the Sides watch the scene from the stairs]

THOMAS: What are we going to do? This is a dead end. Whatever Roman chooses to do, he’s gonna lose, anyway!

LOGAN: There has to be something we can do.

VIRGIL: Maybe we should join the fight.

ROMAN: [looking back at the Sides] Stay out of this, all of you! This is something between Remus and me!

PRINCE GUY: Roman, watch your back!

[Remus hits Roman in the head with his mace, Roman gets dizzy for a couple of seconds, then falls down unconscious.]

VIRGIL: [horrified yelling] ROMAN!

[Thomas and the Sides run to check on him]

REMUS: Haha! I win!

PATTON: [over the top screeching] You killed him!

REMUS: Nah, I did not. Or else I wouldn’t be here either. Now let’s watch together how the last grains from the sand clock fall down, and with them the last seconds on the Prince Guy’s life… 10… 9… 8… 7… [the Prince Guy starts feeling weak] 6… 5… 4…

THOMAS: Please… it can’t end like this!

REMUS: 3… 2… 1… Ouch!

[The last grain on the sand clock gets stuck on the higher part. Remus falls, sitting down on the floor]

THOMAS: Wait… what? What’s happened?

REMUS: Aw! My neck! What is going on!?

[sound of jingle bells is heard and when Remus turns around, a green Sprite is seen on the back of his neck]

THOMAS: A Sanders Sprite?

PATTON: [happy face] It has to be him. It has!

VIRGIL: Is that you, Ira?

IRA: [suddenly speaking through Remus’ body] Of course it’s me. Are you guys okay? I came here as soon as I found out what happened!

REMUS: What? This isn’t fair!

THOMAS: Sorry, Remus, but you said there were no rules and we could do anything we wanted.

REMUS: But you’ve lost the last challenge!

THOMAS: You used foul play anyway! You attacked Roman from behind and didn’t have any intention of releasing the Prince Guy anyway! The challenge is not valid at all!

[Roman starts waking up]

ROMAN: Ugh… my head…

VIRGIL: Roman, are you all right?

ROMAN: More or less… [looks at the almost empty clock] Oh, no! How long have I been knocked out!? Did my brother…?

THOMAS: Don’t worry, the Prince Guy is okay.

PRINCE GUY: I’m fine, Roman.

THOMAS: Now, release the Prince Guy, Remus.

REMUS: Never!

IRA: [through Remus’ body] Release him now, or I swear I’ll take control of your body and never set you free!

ROMAN: Ira? Is that you?

IRA: Yes… I’m glad I can take this chance to see you too. I wish it was under better circumstances… Now, Remus! Release him! Now!

REMUS: Okay, fine… [snaps his fingers] The Prince Guy is free.

[the sand clock disappears and so does the cage. The Prince Guy falls down to the floor, then he gets up and runs to Roman]

PRINCE GUY: Roman, are you okay?

ROMAN: I’m still in pain, but at least I’m relieved now. Are you okay?

PRINCE GUY: Yes, I’m fine. Thank you so much, Roman. And I thank all of you too. You took a great risk for me and I’ll always remember it.

ROMAN: [looking at his brother with a loving smile] I’m so happy.

[Remus looks at Roman’s face of love towards the Prince Guy, and shows a sad face]

REMUS: Why did you never show that love for me, Roman? Why do you hate me, brother?

ROMAN: [looking angrily at Remus] After all you’ve just done, you have the guts to make that question?

REMUS: This has nothing to do with today! It has been this way from the beginning! What did I even do to you so that you dropped me here? You hated me ever since I was one with you!

THOMAS: One with him?

ROMAN: [sighs] Yes… In the beginning, Remus and I were the same being… the same single Side of Creativity… until, when you were 10, you started entering into prepuberty. New stuff started then coming from me and you started rejecting some of the products of what I made… It disturbed and distressed you so much that you seriously considerated stopping creating anything at all. I couldn’t let that happen, so I started rejecting that part of myself, trying to repress it. So much so that I ended up physically expelling it from me, and that’s when Remus was born. He called me brother from the very first moment. He seemed to love me, to the point of idolizing me, but I was so horrified of him and what he started doing that… I decided to take care of him. But I couldn’t dispatch him. Not only because we were physically connected, for better or worse, and if something happened to him, the same would happen to me. There was also something inside of me that simply didn’t let me do such a horrible thing. So I sent him to this island, as far away as I could. He certainly begged, he cried, he yelled at me, but I just jumped on my ship and left him there. I had hoped that Remus would never be able to get back. I still don’t understand how you could return, Remus.

REMUS: When I grew up I got strong enough to summon big stuff like a ship, but I didn’t know in which direction to sail, I feared I could get lost in the sea if I tried to sail without directions, so I never tried it. I would have stayed here forever if, one day, I hadn’t suddenly felt a huge source of pain and angst coming from you, which told me exactly where you were. Like a beacon light, I followed that trace on my ship until I got to the shore. Then, on land, I followed the trace until I got to your room. And there I saw you. You had been bitten by a red Sprite. I stayed there hiding and I saw everything.

ROMAN: So that’s what happened. That’s when Laziness bit me a few months ago.

REMUS: I’ve been watching you all the time ever since. Getting to know you and your friends, planning everything I did. I wanted to make you pay for all the years you made me stay on this island all alone.

ROMAN: I guess you had some fair motivation in what you felt, but I did it all for Thomas. As soon as you got split from me, you started messing all around the Mind Palace. Messing around with my Dream Factory, creating the most horrible intrusive thoughts, and trying to let them loose on his imagination. It was just the beginning of Thomas’ adolescence, he was in a critical part of his development and you were wreaking havoc on his mind. I couldn’t let you do that, so I had to do something, and I did it. And yet, even though you were so far away from Thomas, you still had an influence over him, because he kept having these intrusive thoughts inspired by you. What I did had been useless. But I never had the strength to bring you back. I was too afraid of you, despite the regret I ultimately felt about what I did.

REMUS: …regret?

ROMAN: Yes. Regret. Because even though I was so horrified of you, and I hated everything you did and everything you made Thomas think and create… even so, you were still a part of me. And still, I knew that, no matter how hard I tried to deny it… [his voice breaks] you still were my brother and… somewhere deep down in my heart… I still loved you.

REMUS: [impersonating the viral video, crying, he hugs Roman] WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!

[then there’s a brown flash around them. Ira’s Sprite gets expelled from Remus and the brown light gets brighter. For a second, in the middle of the light, Thomas thinks he sees a majestic man, dressed in a navy blue suit with a golden crown and a brown sash, showing a determined but at the same time ferocious gesture. The vision, which both attracts and terrifies Thomas at the same time, only lasts for a fraction of second, then disappears in the brown light, which then disappears. Roman and Remus are still there, and Roman pushes Remus away from him]

ROMAN: Back off! Don’t touch me!

REMUS: Why?

ROMAN: Don’t you see we can’t be together? It’s impossible. Forget about it!

REMUS: [angry, with tears in his eyes] I won’t! I won’t let you forget about it anymore! As long as I’m away from you, I’ll be your worst nightmare. And Thomas’ too!

THOMAS: Whoa, why me?

REMUS: Because this is all your fault, Thomas! He wouldn’t have wanted to get rid of me if it wasn’t for you! [looking at the other Sides] For all of you! Now you’ve defeated me, but I’ll be back, and the next time, you won’t be able to stop me!

[Remus disappears]

ROMAN: [getting up with the help of Virgil and the Prince Guy] And he’s very serious about it… We’ll better watch out from here on out.

PRINCE GUY: Roman… Is it true what Remus told about me? Am I just… a product from you? Am I not really your brother?

ROMAN: It’s true that you are a product of me… but it is not true that you’re not my brother! You are my brother, never ever doubt it.

PRINCE GUY: …but only in Sandersia. Now, you’ll get out of here back to where you belong, and out there… I’m nothing but a silly character in your stories…

[Roman sighs]

VIRGIL: Does it really matter, though?

PRINCE GUY: Yes, it does! Because I don’t know who I am anymore! Do I really love Roman because I chose to do so? Or do I love him because he created me with that idea in my mind, unable to escape from it?

THOMAS: Princey… I hope you don’t mind that I call him Princey too, Roman… Or Princey-2. There’s one thing I know about Roman. When he creates his characters, he sets them free in this world, to do whatever they want, on their own free will to write their own stories themselves and let us be witnesses of them. He chose not to meddle in your lives, and he doesn’t tell you what to do or what to think. Believe me when I say that, if you love Roman now, that love is very real, just as real as the love that Roman feels for you.

ROMAN: That’s true, brother. As I once said to Thomas, I may dress in white, but I’m not White Diamond. But I’ll understand if you don’t wanna know from me anymore… I’ll leave you alone if that’s what you want…

PRINCE GUY: Are you kidding? Don’t you dare getting out of my life ever again, Roman! Didn’t you listen? I love you, brother!

[the Prince Guy hugs Roman and Roman hugs him back]

ROMAN: And I love you too…

LOGAN: I suddenly thought about something…

THOMAS: What is it, Logan?

LOGAN: The Prince Guy will never be completely safe while Remus is on the loose. He has the power of erasing characters from Sandersia, just like Roman.

[Ira’s Sprite enters into Honesty’s hologram]

HONESTY: Guys, Ira is telling me something… He’s telling me that he will protect the Prince Guy. If Remus ever tries to touch him again, he’ll be guarding him and he’ll bite him again, should that happen.

ROMAN: Thank you so much, Ira. Even after death, you’re still helping us… [his face suddenly lights up] Oh… I suddenly had a great idea!

THOMAS: An idea? What is it?

ROMAN: We are in Sandersia, right? And Ira is in Sandersia too.

THOMAS: Yes, that’s not news for us, you know?

ROMAN: Ira, would you mind getting out of Honesty, please?

[Ira’s Sprite gets out of Honesty]

ROMAN: Now, it’s time for a little bit of magic…

[Roman shakes his hands, green sparkles come out of his fingers and fly to Ira’s Sprite. When they touch him, the Sprite starts growing. It grows and grows until it has human size. Then it disappears, and Ira is there in the flesh]

IRA: Wait, what? What has happened?

ROMAN: I am the creator of characters. I just created a body for you to use. You can’t get out of Sandersia in that form, but it will serve you well here.

IRA: So… As long as I’m in Sandersia, I’m alive again?

[Roman nods]

THOMAS: Roman, this time you’ve outdone yourself! You’re a genius!

ROMAN: I know.

LOGAN: Yes, quite a genius, but a little slow, right? It took you a month and half to think about this.

ROMAN: I know! Wait… what?

IRA: [hugging Roman] Thank you, Roman, thank you!

ROMAN: You’re welcome little bear. You’re welcome.

PRINCE GUY: It will be my honor that you live in the royal palace as my personal guard, Ira.

IRA: And it will be my honor to serve you, my lord. I won’t let Remus approach you ever again.

ROMAN: You can change between Sprite and human form whenever you need it. In Sprite form, you can get out of Sandersia, should you ever need to call us for any reason.

IRA: Got it.

ROMAN: Well, with that settled, let’s go home, shall we?

THOMAS: Yes, I don’t know about you, but I’m exhausted. However, how are we going to get out of this castle? We can’t follow the same path where we came from, remember that a whole section fell down, and there could still be loose traps here and there.

IRA: It’s okay, Thomas. When I was coming in as a Sprite, I saw a door over there in that wall, that leads straight to the front door.

THOMAS: That’s good to know. Okay, guys, let’s get out of here.

[Ira pushes a rock on the wall and the secret door opens. The gang goes through a passage that ends on a door that leads to the outside. Then, they go to the ship and sail away from the island. In a matter of minutes, the ship gets back to Sandersia’s shore, and they jump in the royal carriage which takes them to the door to Roman’s room]

PRINCE GUY: Well, this is goodbye, for now.

IRA: It is. I’m gonna miss our conversations in the living room, that’s the only bad part of not being able to get out of Sandersia and speak at the same time. But I hope that you come here and visit us often.

ROMAN: You bet we will, Ira.

PRINCE GUY: Roman…

ROMAN: Yes?

PRINCE GUY: Thank you again. I was shocked earlier, but when I calmed down, I suddenly realized something.

ROMAN: What is it?

PRINCE GUY: It really doesn’t matter if you created me or not. Inside of Sandersia, you are my brother, and outside of Sandersia, you are my father, because I was born from you. So in or out, you are still my family, and I will love you the same, no matter what.

ROMAN: Not as much as I love you, my dear brother.

VIRGIL: And I’m honored to have you as my brother-in-law, Princey-2.

PRINCE GUY: The honor is all mine, Virgil.

THOMAS: Okay. Let’s go.

ROMAN: Goodbye, brother. Goodbye, Ira. See you soon.

IRA: Goodbye, guys. Until we meet again.

[The Sides and Thomas cross the door and return to Roman’s room. From there, they sink down and rise up in the living room]

THOMAS: Home sweet home.

ROMAN: I’m really sorry I made you go through all of that, guys.

THOMAS: It’s okay, Roman. That’s what friends are for and we would have never left you on this one.

ROMAN: Okay, I think I need a rest. Bye, guys. Virgil, are you coming?

VIRGIL: Yes, Roman. I’m coming right behind you.

ROMAN: [sinking down, with a mischievous smile] That’s what he said…

VIRGIL: [chuckles, then sinks down] You’re a dork, but that’s why I love you, I guess.

PATTON: All’s well that ends well, kiddos. Okay, I think I’m gonna make myself some cookies. [sinking down] I’m hungry after all we’ve been through.

DECEIT: And I’m gonna get myself some tea. I don’t like it very much myself, but Honesty loves it, and since we share the same body, we need to make some sacrifices to get a peaceful coexistence.

HONESTY: [from Deceit’s body] You’re making it sound as if we were bickering all the time like an old couple.

DECEIT: [giggles, then sinks down] Bye, Thomas.

LOGAN: I’m still a bit worried about all of this about Remus.

THOMAS: Me too. When Remus hugged Roman earlier, I saw the strangest thing. Did you see the brown light around them?

LOGAN: Yes.

THOMAS: Did you see the strange man I saw? It looked like me, but he wasn’t any Side I knew.

LOGAN: Who knows, Thomas. Maybe when they hugged, for a second they joined back like they were before they split up, and that’s what you saw.

THOMAS: I hadn’t thought about that. Maybe you’re right, Logan.

LOGAN: Okay, if you don’t need me anymore, I’ll go to my room. I have some books to check out.

THOMAS: And of course, the fact that you got a whole truck load of Crofter’s lately is entirely unrelated, right?

LOGAN: Who told you that?

THOMAS: My lips are sealed, Logan. As they say in Spanish, you can reveal the sin, but not the sinner.

LOGAN: How do you know Spanish?

THOMAS: I don’t, but I was checking foreign idioms in different languages the other day on the internet, and I found that one quite curious.

LOGAN: I guess that means we’re studying idioms again soon. [sinking down] See ya, Thomas.

THOMAS: Bye, Logan. [to the viewers] Well, it’s been quite an adventure today. I’m glad that we got to help Roman in his quest. And we got to know Remus too. Creativity is quite complex, don’t you think? We can do the best and the worst things with it. But as long as we remember they’re fiction and they stay in fiction, we shouldn’t feel bad about them. It’s readers who should judge what they like and what they don’t. We can’t read the readers’ mind all the time, so we just have to stick to express ourselves in our creations… as long as they don’t promote things that are universally wrong or hurtful for yourself or others, of course, but I think that should be a given in all aspects of our life, not only creativity. Until next time, take it easy, guys, gals and non binary pals. Peace out!

[end card]

[Thomas, Joan and Talyn are at the beach]

JOAN: Aren’t you coming to the water, Thomas?

THOMAS: No, not now, Joan… I am exhausted and full of muscle sores everywhere.

JOAN: We could have canceled the trip if you were like this, Thomas.

THOMAS: [sleepy] No, Joan. It’s the only free weekend we had, and I wasn’t going to let you miss this mini-vacation you truly deserve.

TALYN: Can you explain me again why are you like this?

THOMAS: I told you, we were helping Roman save his brother. And it was quite an adventure, but exhausting. [yawns, sleepy] And long.

JOAN: Yes, I bet it was. Do you wanna help us make a sand castle, Thomas?

THOMAS: [triggered, but still sleepy] Castle? No, no, thank you, I’ve had enough castles for quite a while…

JOAN: [sighs] Then, I shouldn’t even mention about playing Super Mario on the 3DS, right? Too many… princesses in another castle.

TALYN: Joan, I think you should leave him alone right now. Look, he’s dozed off. He’s really exhausted.

JOAN: Yeah, I think his mind is “in another castle” right now.

THOMAS: [in dreams] …no mommy, I don’t want the mashed potatoes…

JOAN: … literally…

[nascentesxmorimur]

Her small feet swung slowly back and forth, unable to reach the floor in the chair she was sitting. Hands under her butt, she stared at one of the music posters across the room near the clock. The ticking of the little hand echoed with the voices chattering all around her. It was almost getting too loud for the young girl as her nerves made everything even louder. She shut her eyes for what felt like forever before their chorus director clapped her hands and tried to get the children’s attention. The ceremony was starting soon and the chorus was introducing it all with a song medley. Sky happened to be in chorus and didn’t have a choice. She hated performing in front of people. She was shy and being in the spotlight was never good for her. Any time she had attention on her it felt like she was just waiting for some kind of verbal or physical slap in the face. It was better for her to be unseen and unheard. There was less trouble that way. Somehow trouble always found her and she was extremely tired of it. Tonight was no exception. She already got shoved in the hall on her way to the music room. She was smaller than the other kids her age and looked different which made her the perfect target. Thankfully the teacher was here now and that means the sooner this event started, the faster it would be over. 

The lights in the auditorium were still up as parents filed in with their children, expecting awards. The coveted ‘perfect attendance’ award hung in the balance, after all. The kids who were sent to school sick really craved that piece of paper signed by the principal with a little golden circle on it. Sky didn’t understand the premise of it but it was good to have goals, she suspected anyway. She didn’t ever win awards because she wasn’t overly exceptional at any subject that mattered and she wasn’t a leader by any means. She skated by in most of her classes, spending a lot of time doodling instead of listening to the teacher drone about things she didn’t really care about. She got decent grades, that wasn’t the issue, she just wasn’t overly concerned about overachieving. She heard it from all her teachers. Imagine what your grades could be if you put forth more effort. If you just apply yourself, you could have all A’s. The thing is, the only goal Sky strove for was getting to middle and high school and then getting out altogether. She only wanted to not fail to avoid punishment. One time she got a D in social studies because of her absences from school and her inability to get her homework from anyone and her foster dad let her have it. Even though he was the reason she missed so much school that it affected her grade. Talking about and making excuses for her shitty grades only made her punishment worse. 

Sky stopped looking at the doors at the proud parents waltzing in with their kids. She was happy for them but at the same time, it made her sad. She knew it was stupid to be sad about, it was inevitable at things like this. The young girl couldn’t quite help feeling hurt by the circumstances though. For once it would be nice to be a normal kid with a family out there waiting to see if their kid would get noticed for something they were good at. But Sky wasn’t a normal kid. And she wasn’t overly good at anything. She was just ready to sing their group song and go wait out the night in the back of the auditorium so she could leave right at the end and wait outside to be picked up. 

Eventually, the lights dimmed and the principal came onstage to introduce himself, the event, and the chorus who would be singing a song for them this evening. Sky sighed, trying not to look out at the people who were staring at the kids on the risers in front of the stage. She hated being stared at -- although she knew the parents were only looking at their kids, their eyes were staring in her direction and it made her uncomfortable. As the piano started playing, she nervously swallowed the lump in her throat and began singing with her classmates. She sang quietly, still trying to avoid looking out at the audience until something colorful caught her eye. She saw a big bouquet of flowers a few rows in but when she saw who was holding them, she froze with wide eyes. Her mouth kept singing on autopilot but the rest of her was in shock. It was Rye. And on either side of him was Cass with a camera and Ash beaming and waving excitedly to her when she made eye contact. They were..here? Was she imagining this? She blinked a few times and looked back at them to see if they were just an illusion of her own mind but they were still there. They were actually truly there. For me. Her chest tightened and she became a little more nervous yet not nervous at the same time. Almost emotional as the three smiled in the crowd. She couldn’t believe it. The first time she had someone out in the crowd and there were three of them...all there for her. She could’ve cried but she was still confused and a little scared that she was just imagining them there. She was also weirdly happy to see them. It was strange but she felt happy. Almost normal. And then, just for a moment, Sky smiled and sang a little bit louder with her excitement. 

When their song was over, Sky couldn’t stop blushing knowing that her new family witnessed it all, but she was happy to see them regardless. She wanted to sit with them but had to sit in the designated student area up front to make it easier when they were called up to get their awards. Sky would’ve rather just sat with Cass, Rye, and Ash because she knew she’d just be sitting there watching the other kids get paper achievements for the next hour. 

Eventually, Sky began tuning out the announcers onstage like she usually had when she pulled out her sharpie and started drawing on her wrist. It wasn’t until she heard her name called that she was snapped out of her doddle trance. “Huh?” she looked up at the stage, where her art teacher was smiling proudly. “Skyler, come get your award! For outstanding performance and talent in the subject of art!” Sky couldn’t believe it. She was so stunned she didn’t even cringe at her full name being called out loud. Hesitant at first, she quickened her pace when she realized that all eyes were definitely on her now. Her art teacher handed her the award and wrapped her in a hug. “Congratulations, Sky.” “Th-thank you.” She whispered and smiled back shyly before hurrying off the stage and back to her seat. She heard loud cheering and knew it was from the three familiar faces and the only ones who would be cheering that loudly at a fourth grade award ceremony. She was both excited and a little embarrassed but she smiled at the floor anyway. They were yelling and cheering for her. It was astounding. It was a foreign feeling but she couldn’t stop smiling even as she stared at the paper in her hands in disbelief.She actually won something? She actually won something. Not for a real subject like math or science or english, but it was something. And it was her favorite subject too. The teacher signed it at the bottom and her name was right there in bold calligraphic lettering. The girl clutched it throughout the whole rest of the show, basically clinging to it as if in fear that someone would try to take it back because of some error. It was hers. And she was proud of it? Yes. Yes that was the feeling, right? She was proud of this piece of paper tonight. It wasn’t a nobel peace prize but it was important to her. And she loved it. Maybe that was dumb but it was the only award she’d ever received and it was for something she loved. She may never get the holy perfect attendance award, but this one was way cooler to the 9 year old. 

After the ceremony was over, Sky moved hastily into the hallway where a sea of people were all pushing and shoving to get to their kids and go home. She was being moved in the opposite direction that she intended to go when she felt a hand on her shoulder before being embraced in a tight bear like hug. She didn’t realize who it was at first, but the familiar smell of Cass’ perfume wafted the air before her little lungs were crushed by the woman’s hug. Sky smiled anyway and hugged her back. She was happy to see them and she was excited that they were there to see her award. Each of them took turns hugging the small girl and she hugged them back just as happily. “Thank you for coming.” She told them, embarrassed again slightly. “You didn’t have to..I hope you didn’t feel like you had to come.” Although she was happy that they did, the realization that they all probably had much better things to do that night hit her in the face like a fly baseball. “You guys probably had more important things to do tonight... I’m sorry if--” Ash was the first to cut her off, the smile never leaving the wolf’s face. “Hey, nothing is more important than this. We all wanted to be here tonight for you. We made sure to keep our schedules cleared to be here.” Rye nodded and added, “Yeah, there’s no way we’d miss out on seeing our little jedi sing for the whole fourth grade and get her art award!” Sky was holding back tears as they spoke, when Cass grabbed her hands and lightly poked her nose. “Kiddo if you thought we were gonna miss this, then you need to get to know us better. We love you and we waited all month to see you get this award. We’re so proud of you baby girl. So crazy proud.” Sky thought Cass might start crying but instead she hugged the child again tightly and Sky buried her face in the woman’s hair. “Thank you,” she clung to Cass as her emotions went haywire. “Thank you all..so much. I love you too. A lot.” And she did. She truly appreciated their presence and their effort. When Cass finally let go of her, Rye handed her the flowers he’d been holding onto. “And these, young padawan, are for you.” Sky took them slowly, smiling as she brought them to her nose. She inhaled the floral scent and held them close to her. “Thank you. They’re so pretty.” “Prettiest flowers for the prettiest girl.” The wolf grinned, ruffling her hair. “How about we go get some dinner and ice cream before we go home for movie night? Sound cool?” Rye asked, holding his arms out as if opening the question up to the floor. “I’m in.” Ash agreed and Cass nodded. “Sounds great to me! You in?” She asked Sky. Sky looked at them all and nodded too. “Okay! Yeah, that sounds nice.” “Sweet!” “Awesome.” “Let’s do it then. Let’s roll ladies.” 

Later on, they all spent the rest of the night eating celebratory pizza and ice cream and watching movies with popcorn and milkshakes. There was debate of framing Sky’s award versus putting it up on the fridge and which was better versus more traditional. It was decided that they’d frame it and display it proudly to keep it safe from kitchen accidents. The three praised the little girl, all so incredibly proud of her, and Sky felt loved and dare she say, somewhat normal, for the first time in her life. Even though their little family was anything but normal. She loved these people and they loved her and that was more than enough. More than anything she could’ve ever wished for on birthday candles or shooting stars. She had a real family now. And she loved them more than anything. 

[olive-wood]

Natural Birth. VBAC.

It's taken me longer than expected to write this post. Partly because having two, under twos is much harder than my original over active ego allowed me to think it would be. But also, because i needed to take the time to reflect over parts of my birth experience that i originally felt disappointed with.

Firstly though, some context or my previous birth experience with our little girl Ethel. In May of 2017 I was deeply under the allusion that birth would come easy to me. I felt I had a strong pain threshold having taken many equestrian blows, i believed that as my body was built for birthing children it would be an (albeit painful) doddle, after all "women have been doing it for 1000s of years". No preparation necessary.

However, a word of advice to all pregnant ladies falling for the tight lipped, patriarchally driven society view of child birth.... the above couldn't be further from the reality you will face, if you don't prepare for the greatest and hardest job you're likely to ever experience.

With Ethel I couldn't cope with even the first contraction. The power felt as my uterus worked hard to bring our girl into the world overwhelmed me and I wanted it taken away at only 2cm of dilation. I exhausted myself, mind and body, and stopped progressing at 8cm after 22hours of hard labour, copious amounts of drugs and many, many hands checking position and progress. The end result: emergency c.section. Though Ethel was not stressed and remained safe and content inside me... I had given up. I didn't understand what happening. Why I wasn't sneezing her out as I had hoped. Why the pain was all too much even with ALL the drugs the NHS had to offer. On May the 25th 2017 jumping the queue of the planned c.sections booked in that day, Ethel was born via the sunroof. By a wonderful surgeon whose humour and skill kept me calm and with very little to recover from afterwards.

Fast forward, to 16 months later. Arthur's arrival. How time changes people, how experience can empower and guide you. I had learnt ALOT from how I reacted during Ethel's birth and i was determined to ensure a different outcome this time. I read a great book by Juju Sundin and would suggest everyone who is involved in birth give it a read. It predates the current hypnobirthing trend, though follows a similar respect for the power of your mind but provides more physical exercises in order to control your reaction to labour. I also, followed birth bloggers on Insta that promote and advocate a more open understanding of birth. Showing full uncensored videos of labour. Something of which I think should be shared with all women, men and children alike, allowing for a gentle, natural appreciation of the powerful experience that is child birth.

I also prepped my husband with how best he could actively support me, forwarned him of how I intended to become vocal and not hold back this time round and my wishes for a natural unmedicated birth.

On the 5th of November, a week before my due date at 10am whilst playing with Ethel I felt the first uncomfortable twinge. I called my midwifery friend, who was to act as my doula. Unfortunately she was enjoying a wedding in Portugal at the time. She confirmed for me that labor had started.. boosted my confidence and encouraged my excitement whilst reminding me to eat and rest whilst I could. My last labor having been such a long one, I knew I needed to reserve my energy.

However, a long labor wasn't to be. By 1030am, having managed to put a jumper and wellies on Ethel (trousers were proving too difficult), I decided walk the collies to find my husband Mark who was mucking out the cow shed. I found the fresh air and repetitive movement of a swaying walk distracted me from each growing contraction. Having Ethel to concern myself over was also a great help and I soon found I was singing "Swing Low Sweet Chariot" whilst rocking her on my hip as we walked... (song choice is still a mystery to me?!)

By the time we reached the back of the shed I could see my husband had moved to the front and I began to grow weary of holding Ethel. Knowing I couldn't cross through the cows with dogs I began to wander back... toddler, reluctantly doddering along side. During what should have been a mere 2min walk i felt that my contractions had ramped up a notch and I was grateful to see my father in law driving up the track. I explained that Arthur was on route and asked if he'd mind taking Ethel whilst i organised child care and informed Mark. By this time I needed to keep reminding myself that the pain i was feeling was a "good pain" a "healthy pain" it was my uterus muscle, a muscle rarely in use, aching at its efforts at bringing my 2nd born into the world.

I finally managed to reach Mark who (in true farmer style) informed me he'd be in at brew time and if he thought we'd have time to finish off the rest of the mornings jobs. By this point I was struggling to stay standing and knew I needed to rest and time my contractions. So I headed back to the house and put in a phone call to my parents.

It took my parents 45 minutes to get to our farm, by that time I was sat on a hard back dining chair at the front of our farm house wearing only my jogging shorts and a bikini top keeping cool from the overwhelming heat my body was producing. The songs of Mr Tumble keeping my toddler from breaking my concentration on my guttural moans and the repetitive (though admittedly not for everyone) comfort of one of our dogs licking my leg. I swear our usually quiet lane was busiest in that hour of me sat there.

The contractions were powerful to say the least, but I felt I had good control over my perspective of what my body was doing. Staying positive is key. I knew panic founded on negativity must be avoided at all costs.

Mark was with me at this stage and I found I could only shout the word TIME at the beginning and end of each contraction whilst concentrating on staying in control. Fortunately, Mark understood and would take note of how far apart they were and most importantly let me know when I was around half way through each one. Contractions generally last around 60 seconds, and begin to peak as you come around the 30 second mark... having someone tell you at this point you've broken the back of that particular contraction can really help you keep focus for its descent. Humorously, my parents didn't quite understand my one word language and kept telling me minute by minute the actual time of day- believing it to be something i was determined to focus on.

By around 11.45, after only 15 miniutes of my parents arriving it was time to leave. I was concerned that it was too soon and id be in for a long hospital stay, but my contractions were now less that 2 minutes apart and I was struggling to distinguish between each one.

The car journey was an ordeal that required alot of LOUD singing to help me focus on something other than painful surges that were being amplified by each pothole and tight country lane turn. I surprised myself at my own vocal range and began what i can only describe as an attempt at Opera. I quivered each note for as long as I could: matching the noise level to the strength of each contraction.

By the time we reached the hospital just after 1230 I new things were progressing well as I struggled to move from the uncomfortable position within the car to the doors of the birth centre. I took comfort in this though. I knew that with each increase in pain and discomfort, I was closer to meeting our little boy. I also clung to the knowledge that once he reached my birth canal this pain would ease, and that many women who are aware of the change at that stage of labor would be afforded a rest bite before the big push.

Mark went to the doors before me and left me in the car. We hadn't been able to get through to birth centre to inform them we were coming (I know now that Mark had been dialing the community midwife number which was written next to the Labour ward number!) and I didn't fancy standing with my bags before I could see those doors were open. On arrival we were greeted by a number of midwives and various questions of which I was so grateful to Mark for answering, as by this point I was enjoying sharing my new found operatic skills to every other birthing mother at the centre that day.

We were shown into a large, airy room with a birthing pool. I knew I wouldnt be using the pool after my experience with Ethel. I'd never been comfortable being in a bath for too long and I enjoy my bathing water hotter than is safe for birthing in. One of the midwives kindly removed the bed that was in the room and replaced it with a birth bed. Something I thought I wouldnt have felt comfortable with after reading so many hard opinions about how unnatural lying on your back is as a birthing position. But I wanted to sit, I needed to sit. I needed to focus. Not march on the spot, bounce on a ball or dance around the room like I assumed I would.

After what I believe to be around 1pm my midwife introduced herself to me. Other than the rearrangement of furniture I hadn't noticed her presence. Her name was Helen. And I hope that she doesn't mind me sharing her name and her part in my story... but without her and her perfectly instinctive ways I believe this blog wouldn't be about the postive and enjoyable birth that I can now reflect on.

I purposefully mention how I never noticed her until her gentle introduction as this was key, I believe, to our success as a team in my labor. She knew instinctively, even without the help of my notes (that on account of us not calling before arriving hadnt been sent yet) what my birth plan hopes were. She knew her role would be best served as unobtrusive as possible. I felt her trust in me and my abilities every time I broke from my focus, which had become a form of unintended mediation (Mark told me later: I looked like I was "off my face of Spice" and "groaning like an animal") to see her smiling at me, letting me know she was there if I needed her.

After sometime Helen asked if I wanted her to check my dilation. This level of respect for the autonomy over my own body secured my belief that I was in the right place. That unassisted birth doesn't have to be at home alone. Having your cervix checked is an uncomfortable feeling, ive heard some women describe it as painful, but a good tip during labor is to take these moments as more positive distractions. Its a discomfort you can confidently understand, it brings you knowledge of progress, it allows you to make decisions and be better informed (should you so wish to be). Helen announced I was 8cm, the stage I reached with Ethel after almost 7 times the length of time. 8cm the magical number of transition. 8cm... only 2cm to go. At this point my confidence began to grow beyond anything the pain my body was feeling could touch. I began to chant in my head "I can do this".

Not long after I requested fluids. The need for these (as well as a safety precaution after my first birth) was the reason why I wouldn't feel comfortable birthing at home. I know my body, and I know I dehydrate quickly. Mark had been consistently feeding me sips of water throughout my contractions but I knew if I didn't boost my fluids my energy levels could dip before then end. Something of which was noted when labouring Ethel. Mark stepped up again and convinced a senior midwife that fluids were needed and she checked my urine by placing a catheter at my request as I was beyond relaxing enough to pee. The results showed a high number ketones and fluids were given.

Around this time my notes must have come through. As I was paid a visit by a consultant. Non other than the same consultant whom was the surgeon to my c.section the previous year. It is at this part of my birth journey that I have found most worth learning. Learning about how easily birth experiences can change, how important it is to be clear about your wishes before labour takes over and you are unable to do so for yourself, a need for better awareness on how common intervention can take labour in a new direction and also why these intervention of take place.

My consultant didn't have the same knowledgeable approach as my midwife Helen, as to the importance of unassisted, natural birthing means to a birthing mother. I recall him asking what pain relief i had taken, his need for me to focus on his questions, forcing me to loose focus on my concentration as he was concerned my relaxed exterior was a sign of me weakening. He then, albeit politely, told me he was going to check my progress and announced the crushing news he believed me to be 6cm dilated not the magical 8cm and that he was going to brake my waters. My plans for a unassisted birth was slipping out of my reach, I could feel the panic rising in me, the amount of people in the room came to light. I began to feel less of a simple mother birthing her miracle and more of person in need of medical aid.

The feeling of my waters breaking was more than intense. The contractions that came soon after did exactly as the consultant, with all his best intentions, had intended. I was catapulted forward into my labor and my mind had no chance to catch up. My meditational skills had gone... no amount of opera could bring it back. My body wanted Arthur out. My mind and body were separated. My body began to push as my mind along side my husband and Helen tried to command it stop. I won't lie to anyone reading this looking for a positive birth read: this stage of being so quickly advancing in labor was too much for me. I lost all control. The pain was sickening. The contractions all consuming. I had hit transition with no real build up to it. I wasn't prepared and I needed help.

As each contraction came my body would lurch forward and begin to push. I remember my husband pinning back to the bed nose to nose telling me to breath with him. I could see the concern in his face and I could hear it in Helen's voice. I needed to relax, baby wasn't ready. My body wasn't ready. My old scar certainly wasn't ready. I had been labouring well from the very first twinge for only 5 hours, yet on seeing the gentleman that had performed my c.section and coping so abysmally with this new direction my birth had taken I wanted rest bite. The rest bite i had forgotten comes soon after transition. Your whole labor is very much like one contraction: it reaches a peak (at transition) but once you've reached that peak it settles down and you can some what rest (When your baby reaches your canal). I wish I had remembered that. But I never... and demanded an epidural. I remember the words leaving my mouth. I remember more so Mark's quick reaction at telling me I didn't mean it... and how even quicker i retorted I did. I remember how Helen tried to buy some time in the hope I'd change my mind. And I remember how inside I knew how much I didn't want that type of help. But I was desperate and it was my wishes that were acted upon. If only I had been so confident in requesting to having no intervention then perhaps I wouldn't have had one.

At around 430pm the anesthetist arrived with my epidural. He had to wait for my contractions to pass before he could set up the injection. During this time Helen had sat me up on the bed and was allowing me to squeeze the life out of her arms whilst guiding me in my breathing. I was transfixed on the movement of her mouth as she spoke words of confidence to me... I felt the control I lost returning and the disappointment of what I had asked for.

My characters greatest failing is my fear of upsetting people. I had asked for an epidural... I had demanded one. This man had taken the time to come to the birth centre from his own ward to give me it. The package was open.. the drug would be wasted, as well as everyone involveds time. So, just like staying in the warm birthing bath with Ethel, when I all I wanted to do was get out after only 5 minutes of being in... I didn't say anything.

At this point i must say I'm not against expectant mothers taking any form of pain relief during birth. Birth is as unique as the individual going through it. But birth control is something that wasn't on my dream plan. After feeling a remembering very little of my daughter's birth, I wanted to feel and remember every second of my son entering into the world. And fortunately...by the grace of God I did.

An epidural can take anywhere between 15-30mins to take effect and soon after the doctors had left and the room was clear of anyone other than my supreme birth team, I felt then sensation I had hoped to experience.... a drop. The passage of my baby boy from my uterus into my birth canal. Helen had told Mark I was ready, though I heard him say to give me a moment before telling me. He knows me so well I thought. He knew how important this part was for me. He knew how upset I was inside after the inventions. I needed to take this slow. I needed this to be a calm moment. Not the drama of tv births. I wanted to enjoy this.

And I did.

Helen told me it was time whenever i was ready. I remember her smiling and I knew I was back where I wanted to be. My epidural hadn't kicked yet I still had all feeling and the urge came to push and I followed it. Not like before-this felt powerful but not painful. My pushing at first was feeble to say the least. I remember reading about people breathing out their babies. I wanted that experience... but I still needed to push hard to help move Arthur down. At first my efforts were accompanied by grunts that would escalate into shouts.. not of pain but of release. But Helen instructed me that this was wasting much needed energy. I needed to focus in pushing down and out from below. No vocals needed. Just concentrate on what my body was already doing. Her words were so clear and calm I couldn't help but fall into them. And I felt my mind become perfectly one with the physical aspects of my body. With in what felt like only moments he was crowning. It was amazing. I knew soon I'd be meeting my little boy and I wanted this moment to last. With every push I'd allow him to hover almost between world's. The only pain i felt was a hot sensation as my skin stretched to accommodate my progress as I was close to the end. I knew if I wanted to avoid any tears I had to take my time and allow my body to bring Arthur into the world. So I began to breath deeply and slowly. Enjoying every second. His head appeared to my husband with one deep outward breath....followed by his perfect 7.9lb and into my waiting arms.

We had done it. And it was all and more than I could have hoped for.

My beautiful boy was taking sustenance from my breast as we waited for the placenta to pulsate the final drops of goodness that had allowed him to thrive inside me those past 9 months. After only 6.5 hours from start to finish...to the lights and sounds of fireworks he arrived.

The End.

To my husband Mark I thank you for being my rock. For understanding my needs and not leaving my side (even in the face of off key opera). You are my world and the children you have given me our the stars.

To Helen: there arent words to fully describe the appreciation and gratitude to you for being my midwife and my unintentional doula. And if I can ask one favour from you, after all you have done, is that you are there for next children I bring into this world.

[jos-corner-of-the-world]

The Assignment - {8}

{7} | Master List

By the time Alex made it out to her designated car, she was more than ready to just go back to sleep.  She was excited for the job, but with everything else happening, she just wanted to be alone. More than that, she wanted the whole threat against her life thing to be over. It had only been a few days, but she was more than over it.

“Ah, I see you've made it with two minutes to spare. Luckily Changkyun came early! We can head out now.” Minhyuk said, ever present smile still there.

“You got a gun?” Alex asked the man she assumed to be Changkyun.

“Uh...yes ma'am” he agreed hesitantly.

“Good to know.” Alex said.

“I'd keep it under watch.” Alex heard Wonho say. “She's a shifty one.”

“Am not. It was just a question.” Alex defended.

“Uh huh. It's only 8am. It's too early for threats and gun slinging don't you think Miss Alex?” Wonho asked.

“I didn't realize there was an inappropriate time for either. You part of the detail going with me today?”

“Yes ma'am. We've got a busy schedule so we should go.”

Changkyun got into the driver's seat of the SUV, while Wonho sat next to him in the passenger seat.  That left Alex in the back with minhyuk.

“Yeah...nope. Can't do it. Wonho, switch seats with Minhyuk.” Alex said.

“Don't be a grumpy gills. It'll be great!” Minhyuk said as he climbed into the backseat.

Alex shot a pleading look towards Wonho who only laughed and closed his door.

“I have a question.” Alex asked as she got situated in the backseat.

“What's that?” Minhyuk asked.

“Not for you.”

“Wonho, if I have such a busy schedule...and an assistant...why didn't Shownu tell me about it last night when he was rambling about all that other shit?” Alex asked.

“From what I understand, you zoned out about eight seconds into his information dump. I'd assume he'd have told you more had you actually been engaged in the conversation.”

“Hey! I lasted at least fifteen seconds. But his voice is so monotone and I just...wanted him to shut up"

“Wow. Your honesty never ceases to amaze me. How about from now on instead of coming to you rambling, I'll text you information you need.” Wonho said.

“Yeah that'll work. The less I actually have to see of you all the better.” Alex had meant it as a joke, but her tone gave way to how bitter she still was.

Wonho gave a forced laugh and prompted Minhyuk to start explaining her schedule.

“Right! So we'll meet with Hyungwon at 9 when we get to the Embassy. At 10:30 you'll have a video chat with Kihyun. He's essentially your counterpart at the Korean Embassy in D.C. You'll be communicating with him on a daily basis so introductions will happen today. After that you'll have lunch and then at 2 you’re set to meet with a stylist. If you're done there before 5 you'll return to your office until 6. If you're not done by then you're free to go home after and come back to the Embassy in the morning at 9.”

“Jesus. Did you breathe at all through that monologue?” Alex asked Minhyuk.

“Alex. Please tell me you heard what he said?” Wonho asked.

“Course I did. Hyungwon, Kihyun, lunch, stylist, home.” You reiterated.

“Simplified version, but essentially yes.”

“And where do you fit into this whole scenario?” Alex asked Minhyuk.

“Oh, I'll be by your side the whole time.”

It took everything in Alex's power not to verbalize her dislike for that comment. It wasn't any easier when she heard Wonho laugh from the front seat.

Alex walked into the Embassy letting the feeling of familiarity wash over her.  It had been a few years since she stepped foot into the place, but it was as warm and inviting as she remembered it to be. Usually those two things weren't synonymous with an Embassy, but some of Alex's most fond childhood memories were here.

“Ah Miss Kensington! Good morning.” Alex looked over to see Mable sitting dutifully at her desk just inside the entrance.

“Mable!” Alex said as she all but ran to the middle aged woman, throwing her arms around her.

“I'm sorry. This is so unprofessional but I missed you.” Alex said.

“It's okay sweetie. They'll just have to let it slide this once.” Mable laughed as she hugged Alex tightly.

“Sorry Alex but we have to get to a meeting. Mustn't doddle.” Minhyuk said.

“I'm not doddling.” Alex groaned.

“On the plus side, I'll get to see you a lot now Mable. Let's have lunch together soon.”

Alex let Minhyuk drag her away, though she loathed it immensely.

“Good morning Miss Kensington. Let's get right to business shall we?” The man Alex assumed to be Hyungwon said.

“I'm Chae Hyungwon, the director of Foreign Correspondence. You came very highly recommended from both your teachers and current Embassy staff.”

“That's good to know. I'm happy to be here.”

“Good to hear. You’ll start off just translating incoming information from Kihyun if necessary, or outgoing information. The two of you can work that out. You'll be the translator on hand for meetings also until you get accustomed to the job and while you're learning your other duties.”

“That's reasonable.” Alex said.

“There will be paperwork such as NDA’s and such you'll have to sign. Since your father was the previous Ambassador, I assume you know that these things are confidential?”

“Yes sir. It won't be a problem at all.”

“There is one other thing.” Hyungwon said seriously.

“While myself and the Ambassador know of your current situation, no one else is to be let in on that information.”

“That won't be a problem at all. I'd like it if there were no situation at all, but I can guarantee my silence in the matter.” Alex assured him.

“That means with Kihyun as well.”

“Kihyun? What does he have to do with this sir?” Alex asked.

“Kihyun sends pertinent information here to the Embassy before going to other government officials, as will you to him. Now since the man you know as Ramsey is an American living here illegally, he's on both our radar and theirs. There may be information coming through to you about him and you need to stay professional and detached the best you can. I know it's not ideal, but it's what needs to be done.  In staying completely transparent with you, we contemplated rescinding the job offer.”

“Can I ask why?”

“There was no threat against you when you were offered the job. We thought it may hinder your performance. But we also didn't feel right taking it away because of a situation you have no control over. But just know, if they do become too much and it interferes with your job, you will be asked to resign.” Hyungwon said.

“I appreciate the honesty and understand completely. Thank you.”

“Now. Minhyuk will show you to your office. You have about an hour to get familiar with your schedule and review some files to make sure translations are accurate. Your video chat with Kihyun will begin at 10:30. If there's anything you need my office is at the end of the hall from yours. Have a good day.”

And with that Hyungwon was gone.

Alex had been taken aback by his abrasive way of speaking, but appreciated his full disclosure and honesty. She could definitely get used to him.

“Alright! Let's show you to your office now!” Alex heard from the doorway.

“You.” She said pointing to Minhyuk.

“You’re going to be harder to get used to. Much harder.”

{9}

Source {X}

[desirelovetoys]

ElectraStim Axis Electro Stimulator

AXIS by ElectraStim is a high-spec dual output electro sex stimulator and is the first in the world to incorporate multiple input sensors for a truly customisable e-stim experience.

Control AXIS with the tactile buttons, a flick of your wrist, a wave of your hand, the sound of your voice or even the proximity of your partner’s body. AXIS gives you the freedom to control electro play, your way. The only limit is your imagination! The revolutionary technology inside AXIS is a world first for the electro sex category and nothing quite like it has been previously attempted. AXIS has user-updatable firmware and we have held back a variety of features that will be unlocked in the future so as if there isn’t enough already going on with AXIS there is also plenty to look forward to in the future.

Outputs

AXIS has dual isolated outputs each of which can be controlled independently to cater for body parts or players with different sensitivity levels. You’ll be able to connect 2 bipolar or 4 unipolar toys at any one time. AXIS boasts the same output power as our popular SensaVox unit; this time is broken down into 50 distinct intensities to provide anything from a mild tingle to a full-on contraction. Experienced electro fans will not only appreciate the level of power but also the smooth and concise delivery of every wave or pulse.

Play Modes

With no less than 7 different play modes AXIS will ensure that your electrostimulation sessions are a truly immersive experience.

1. Wave For those who want the work to be done for them, we have incorporated our most popular wave and massage patterns. Just select the one you want to try, set your intensity and AXIS will do the rest. Choose from 11 different Wave patterns.

2. Pulse These patterns provide for a more edgy stimulation style where higher intensity levels with making you clench and contract. Choose from 12 different Pulse patterns.

3. Flick Our patented Flick mode that made its debut in our namesake stimulator is back and better than ever. The high-spec triple AXIS accelerometer means that Flick mode is more responsive than ever, so you can enjoy ‘virtual spanking’ or ‘virtual wanking’ when combined with the appropriate accessory. Choose from 5 different Flick options.

4. Tilt  It does what it says on the tin! Tilt mode responds to the position of AXIS along the horizontal axis. Lean the unit forward to increase the intensity up to the full level that you’ve set or tilt backwards to decrease the intensity. In this way, you can build your own custom patterns that respond to the angle of AXIS. Position AXIS on your body using the removable belt clip to rock ‘n’ roll your own custom theme! Choose from 5 different Tilt options.

5. Proximity Do you love the feeling of sharing electro sensations with your partner but wish the control was a little more natural in the heat of the moment and you could create your own stimulation patterns? Proximity Mode lets you set your maximum intensity level then create your own patterns by using the sensor on the front of AXIS. You can simply wave a hand towards and away from the unit to play with the stimulation, but the fun really starts when you use the proximity of your partner’s body to control the sensations. Proximity Mode means that each wave, thrust, or movement in front of the sensor will send uniquely timed stimulation to your connected accessories. The closer any part of you is to the sensor, the more intense the stimulation. Set your desired intensity for each channel then use Proximity to manipulate the ebb and flow of the stimulation. The closer you get, the stronger the sensations. The only limit to this mode is your imagination. Try placing AXIS between you and your partner during sex to control the electrostimulations with the proximity of your bodies! Choose from 5 different Proximity options.

6. Microphone The built-in microphone in AXIS means using your voice to control the e-stim sensations is easier than ever. The mic has such high fidelity that we needed to add 10 sensitivity levels to cater for your exact scenario and needs. Choose from 5 different Mic options.

7. Line In Digital Signal Processing technology takes audio control to a whole new level with stereo-stim input. This mode lets you play your favourite tunes or specialist electro audio patterns from a phone, computer or another device to control AXIS. There are literally limitless pattern and sequence possibilities when using stereo sound input. Choose from 4 different Line-in options.

Gesture Mode

As well as using the tactile control buttons on the facia to control AXIS, you can also do it with contactless gestures. When in Gesture mode, every feature of AXIS can be manipulated with a wave of your hand. Pass your hand vertically upwards over the unit to increase intensity for both channels, or wave downwards to decrease both channels. A sideways gesture to the left increases the intensity of channel 1, while the same movement to the right will increase channel 2. You can also cycle through the menus and change patterns with these gestures. We have even built-in a Practice Gestures feature such that you can get the hang of it before trying it for real. The buttons will still work as normal in Gesture mode but give you the option to avoid touching the unit at all. Perfect if your hands are sticky or busy! As with the Proximity mode, you don’t have to use your hand to operate this mode. Any distinct movement in front of the sensor will work, whether that’s a hand, an arm, a leg or a spanking paddle!

Eco-Friendly plus 100% Performance, 100% of the Time

AXIS features an environmentally conscious Lithium-Ion battery that is easily recharged with the supplied USB cable. A battery fuel gauge constantly monitors your use of AXIS for an accurate idea of how much power you have left at your current stimulation level. Depending on use, AXIS can provide up to 8 hours of play from a single charge and will recharge to 80% in under an hour. Unlike other electro devices on the market, the AXIS has a regulated output that will provide the same amount of stimulation and will not drop unexpectedly, no matter the battery level. For example, level 10 will always feel the same whether you have 99% or 9% battery remaining.

Updatable

We’ve designed AXIS to give you many years of happy electro play, so the firmware will be periodically updated to provide new patterns, new features and to improve performance. All you’ll need to do is plug it into a PC/Laptop or Mac using the included micro USB cable and follow the instructions provided at www.electrastim.com/axis to quickly and easily ensure you have the most up-to-date version of firmware installed.

Accessible

Not only are the Gesture and Proximity based modes within AXIS a lot of fun to experiment with, they have also been developed with accessibility in mind. Users with reduced dexterity who may find traditional button or dial controls awkward will be able to control AXIS hands-free in the heat of the moment. A few button presses are needed to get started, but once these advanced motion sensors are activated, these modes are a doddle to operate.

Technology

Boasting a high-speed 32-bit ARM Cortex micro-processor, AXIS can process input data in real-time and translate it into high-quality, ultra-smooth stimulation signals. Multiple internal timers and communications interfaces have allowed us to also integrate a revolutionary gesture/proximity sensor, a 12-bit triple-axis accelerometer and battery fuel gauge all displayed on a bright and crisp OLED graphic display. As with our Flick and Flick Duo stimulators, AXIS has fully regulated output control circuitry which means that stimulation levels do not drop as the internal battery discharges. Whether you use the in-built microphone for voice control, or the line-in to utilise sound files on your computer or smart phone, you can be assured of the purist sound control thanks to the implementation of DSP, Digital Signal Processing algorithms.

Patent Pending

We think the contactless stimulation control features are so unique and fun that we have invested in protecting them across Europe and the USA.

https://desire-love-toys.com/product/electrastim-axis-electro-stimulator/

[achozenmusic]

Intro: Your E-Bike Buyer's Guide

Do you prefer you could commute to service a bike, yet don't would like to transform from workout clothing to business laid-back the minute you arrive? Are you throbing to get energetic as well as take on steep hills yet aren't certain if your knees can take care of the job? Perform you would like to locate a much more environmentally friendly choice for last-mile travel, but do not have steady accessibility to e-scooters and e-bikes in your community?

Picture navigating on a bike, powered through a motor, to work every early morning without breaking a sweat, or zipping up hillsides without wearing yourself out for the ride back home, or possessing a fun as well as sensible transit alternative to decrease your carbon footprint. Electric bikes (e-bikes) make it feasible for anyone in pretty much any sort of shape, and in pretty much every location, to enjoy the perks of bicycling daily. The greatest component is that you'll still obtain workout, and you'll have a burst! If you've been aware of e-bikes, as well as are actually thinking about obtaining one on your own, you probably possess a lot of questions.

Getting an electric bike is a significant choice as well as an assets in your wellness as well as quality of life. Whether you're a hill cycling professional or a novice cyclist hoping to commute or even just cruise some beautiful tracks, there's an e-bike for you. Bicycling e-style can easily help you reach health and wellness objectives, appreciate the leisure aspect of biking, and count less greatly on cars and trucks if you select.

What Is an Electric Bike?

It might be actually tough to picture exactly what one appears like or even how it's various from a regular bike if you've never viewed an e-bike before.

E-bikes are like conventional bikes except they include a sleek electrical motor to provide an electrical power boost for going up mountains or taking a trip long hauls. E-bikes are not the like bikes or mopeds, are actually not loud as well as don't emit emissions.

If you have a certain taste in bikes or need to have a bike for a certain kind of experience, you could be sure there's an e-bike for you. E-bikes come in a stable of dimensions and forms to satisfy different necessities, whether you require an efficient e-bike for the morning commute or a severe artist for ruggedized landscapes.

Even though e-bikes are actually recently increasing in appeal, they may not be something new. Electric bike models date back to the overdue 19th century. This implies that around the exact same opportunity Karl Benz patented the initial commercial on call auto, other founders were actually working on enhancing the rate and power of bicycles. One innovator particularly-- Ogden Bolton-- filed a patent in 1895 wherefore may possess been actually the world's first electric bike. Due to inventors like Bolton, e-bikes are actually right now on call to all.

Exactly How Do Electric Bikes Work?

E-bikes work in the same way as typical bikes as for pedaling goes, but unlike standard bikes, they feature a motor as well as an electric battery. The battery establishments the energy to steer the motor. The electric motor is actually sleek and built right into the center of the spine or main wheel, or even mounted in the facility of the bike. The motor is the part that spins the steering wheels.

Do You Still Have to Pedal an Electric Bike?

Aspect of what creates an e-bike so much enjoyable as well as good for your wellness is you can pedal whenever you wish-- it's totally up to you. The battery as well as electric motor offer a boost to help you bike up mountains, over rough terrain, or even to cover long distances, thus you can easily still bike and also acquire workout without straining on your own. With an e-bike, you're still biking, however you're taking pleasure in a faster, a lot less stressful cycling experience than you will along with a typical bike. If you decide you require to unwind, you can easily choose throttle-only using which does not demand pedaling, and also delight in the doddle while you accelerate down your preferred path.

Generally, you possess fantastic versatility along with an e-bike. If you desire the challenge of hiking uphill as you would certainly with a traditional bike, you can switch the energy off an e-bike, and switch it back on whenever you wish. Your e-bike will be actually all set to assist you if you're not in the state of mind for hillside climbing.

Some e-bikes offer different amounts of pedal support to fit your needs. For instance, Juiced Bikes uses ECO mode, which delivers a lot less energy and helps the rider spare even more of the electric battery charge. A higher pedal help level, like level 3, offers higher power to assist you travel up to twenty miles per hour. The different energy levels may be made use of to help you abide by the local area e-bike rate legislations.

[michellelewis7162]

Tiny Creature Emergency Situation Veterinarian Companies

Tiny Creature Emergency Situation Veterinarian Companies

 There are actually several traits which need to have to be actually thought about when it happens to managing and also always keeping household pets healthy and balanced, satisfied, as well as effectively. There are actually the a lot of various other dog requires! No concern which dog you pick - pets, kitties, hamsters, bunnies, birds, and so on, appropriate diet regimen is actually a major factor to consider.

 Family pets can be found in all sizes and shapes. They happen coming from a lot of various types as well as pack several various unpleasant surprises. Whatever, our family pets are our unique good friends as well as they deliver pleasure to our lifestyles. Emergency Vet Jacksonville FL

 One of the a lot of points to consider is actually the health and wellness of your animal. Right here are actually some useful tips to assist you locate a great animal medical practitioner for the treatment of your household pet.

 One excellent technique to locate the best veterinarian is actually to inquire your pals and also household along with pet dogs that they encourage. Frequently they recognize a veterinarian that would certainly be actually merely straight for you as well as your creatures.

 2. PLACE - Another essential aspect is actually that his/her facility ought to neighbor your residence, or even a minimum of quickly obtainable for you. It is actually necessary for your veterinarian's facility to become dog helpful as well as simple for you as well as your pet dog to get in.

 EMERGENCY SITUATION SERVICE - Your animal medical practitioner ought to be actually there certainly when you require all of them the a lot of. In scenario of unexpected emergencies, it is actually reassuring to recognize you possess the finest feasible treatment being actually offered for your family pet.

 In any case, the above discussed occurrence is actually only a depiction when family pet aficionados like me and also you may believe the requirement of some emergency animal medical practitioner to acquire rid of our treasured household pets. Relocating ahead of time along with these facilities possess also their veterinarian vehicle which on requirement may arrive at also at your area and also begin appearing after the health and wellness of your household pet without losing any type of solitary minute.

 Following early morning had actually one thing unlucky created one thing intolerable as well as awful for our company, and also just some pet dog enthusiast may recognize my circumstance. Thank to God, our company perform certainly not possess to battle a lot in exploring for an emergency situation veterinarian in our area to acquire my pet alleviated on opportunity.

 It is actually unbelievably essential you discover a local area veterinarian as well as likewise check out whether they give 24 Hour Emergency Vet If your neighborhood surgical procedure performs certainly not give 24 Hour Emergency Vet Jacksonville FL, discover one that carries out as well as see to it you may call all of them even though you're pet dog is actually misunderstood there ... only just in case the most awful occurs away from surgical treatment hrs!

 A reputed unexpected emergency veterinarian are going to quickly care for your household pet as quickly as you connect with there certainly as well as will certainly begin delivering him important procedure that is actually useful in delivering leisure coming from his issue. The worth pointing out function of the companies provided through unexpected emergency vets is actually that they are actually properly versed along with the habits of creatures as well as consequently they have the ability to discover the significance of the concern and also rather than administering any kind of form of various other examinations they straight begin their therapy. They additionally know your accessory along with your dog and also for that reason along with giving important procedure they likewise maintain you urging concerning his disorder as well as maintain your ethical higher 32250.

 Like human beings, your dog might additionally demand an important therapy in instance of any sort of unique occurrence which harms him literally. It was actually married couple of months back when in the course of weekend break our company went out along with our family pet for a lengthy ride and also as my pet dog possesses routine of maintaining his skin out of home window to appreciate the awesome doddle as well as seeing travelers he obtained one thing inhaled in his eye.

 If you are actually certainly not capable to find any of the vet medical clinics providing urgent solution after that in that circumstance you can easily also contact to your animal medical practitioner and also find his advise or even pick up info regarding the center coming from where you may receive your pet dog dealt with on critical manner 32250.

 A great veterinarian is actually important to the wellness and also joy of your pet; it is very important you experience relaxed along with your selection of veterinarian as they will certainly be in charge of the well creature of your creature.

 The best essential trait to check out when selecting a vet method is actually that they are actually certified due to the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). All recognized methods go through strenuous examinations every handful of years through a certified examiner; arbitrary check likewise happen in between these to be sure methods fall to the greatest specifications. This is actually all portion of the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme which certifies vet methods due to the solutions as well as specialties they provide providing you satisfaction when it concerns the therapy of your pet.

 Veterinarians have the ability to use expert recommendations on whatever coming from picking the correct creature to their physical exercise and also diet regimen. It is actually suggested you locate a veterinarian in your town prior to you really buy your animal; additionally encourages you take your pet for an overall medical examination after getting. The RCVS Practice Standards Scheme is actually in spot to deliver high quality affirmation, if you're involved, take the possibility to check out numerous surgical operations in your region as well as satisfy the personnel so you're certain in their companies.

 Unexpected Emergency Vet: Offering Complete Care To Your Beloved Vet.

 Ready earlier

 Lots of veterinarians today perform certainly not however your veterinarian can easily suggest a regional urgent veterinarian medical clinic near you. You must understand your veterinarian's times as well as hrs of function as properly as those of the emergency situation facility. Possessing this info quickly accessible can easily conserve you beneficial opportunity if your pet dog possesses an emergency situation FL.

 Help package

It is actually an excellent tip to always keep a standard canine emergency treatment package in the home. You can easily acquire an emergency treatment package that is actually equipped or even you may put together one along with some general products. You will certainly require the adhering to items:

 This might seem like a lengthy checklist however you may quickly locate all of these factors in your local area medicine shop. Along with an initial help package like this you may alleviate slight cuts or even create your pet throw up one thing negative he is actually consumed, amongst various other points.

 When your canine needs to have unexpected emergency treatment.

While you may alleviate a small cut or even injury in the house, if your pet endures an extra severe accident or even crash, you require to look for specialist therapy. Indicators that your canine needs to have to observe a veterinarian feature the following:.

 - Excessive blood loss.

- Trouble status.

- Seizures.

- Rapid breathing.

- Change in physical body temperature level.

- Appears to be actually disabled.

- Pale gum tissues.

- Loss of mindset.

- Weak or even fast rhythm.

 Decide on a veterinarian just before your animal gets ill.

The final factor you would like to perform is actually make an effort to select an unfamiliar veterinarian away from the yellow page or even online when your family pet is actually ill. Rather, inspect all around when you possess great deals of opportunity just before your pet dog ever before gets ill. Take into consideration the complying with concerns:.

 Veterinarian treatment can easily be actually costly these times, particularly for health problems as well as traumas. Locate out in allowance what kind of repayment your veterinarian anticipates.

 You ought to always keep all cleansing items, anti-freeze, and also various other points that might be actually unsafe to your pet properly out of your canine's range. Maintain prescribed medicine and also non-prescription medications away coming from your canine. These are actually all factors that trails typically eat which can easily toxin all of them FL.

 There are actually a whole lot of techniques to discover a really good veterinarian. Inquire all of them which veterinarian they utilize. They are going to perhaps highly recommend a veterinarian they make use of.

 Various other emergency situations.

Various other popular emergency situations consist of stings through and also canines eating poisonous substances. If this is actually the situation along with your canine, or even if he is actually hurt numerous opportunities and also possesses a solid response, you must get him to your veterinarian straight away for therapy. If your canine possesses a hypersensitive response like this you can inquire your veterinarian for a prescribed for an epi-pen having epinephrine for your pet dog so you will definitely possess it helpful in instance he is actually hurt through a honey bee once again.

 Just how perform the veterinarian as well as personnel deal with phone telephone calls? Occasionally you might require to phone your veterinarian.

 What is actually the veterinarian's team like? This could be vital due to the fact that the personnel commonly invests as a lot or even more opportunity along with your pet dog as the veterinarian Jacksonville Beach.

 Carry out certainly not test to create your canine vomit unless you speak to your veterinarian as well as he or even she sees you to move on. Be actually readied to take your pet to your veterinarian straight away for procedure 32250.

 What times as well as hrs is actually the veterinarian open up? If you function after that make certain that the veterinarian is going to level on times when you get out.

 Tips on Choosing a Vet for Your Pet.

 Result.

The most ideal means to aid your pet dog in an urgent is actually to become prepped. Begin considering what to perform just before everything ever before occurs as well as traits are actually so much more probably to prosper for you as well as your canine.

 See.

When you have actually located a handful of veterinarians that accommodate your requirements, pay out a check out to their workplaces or even vet health centers. Is actually the team respectful and also helpful?

 If your pet is actually presenting several of these indicators, perform certainly not confusion. It is necessary that you keep restful. Perform acquire your pet to your veterinarian or even unexpected emergency center as promptly as achievable for evaluation.

 If you select a multi-vet strategy, can you find the veterinarian you favor? Occasionally you or even your household pet may just like one veterinarian much better than the others.

 What companies carries out the veterinarian supply? Some veterinarians possess advanced tools than others, as an example, and also have the capacity to perform even more analysis screening or even may supply advanced procedures. Certainly not all pet dogs demand these companies Jacksonville Beach.

 - Magnifying Glass.

- Iodine Swabs.

- First Aid Spray

- Antibiotic Ointment

- Hydrocortisone 1%.

- Thermometer.

- Muzzle.

- Adhesive Tape

- Syringe.

- Gauze Pads

- Hydrogen Peroxide.

- Cotton Balls

- Stretch Gauze.

- Styptic Powder.

- Ipecac Syrup.

- Cold Pack

- Scissors.

- Tweezers.

 You may likewise inspect online to discover which veterinarians concern veterinarian associations you value like your condition veterinarian clinical organization, the American Veterinary Medical Association, or even various other institutions. If you're searching for a veterinarian that is actually a professional, look at his/her qualifications.

 You possibly will not recognize what you think about the vet till you deliver your dog in for a browse through however these are actually some great ways to select a veterinarian for your animal. Strategy in advance as well as think about all the aspects prior to your dog requires to view the veterinarian.

 Exactly how to discover a great veterinarian.

 Perform you prefer a veterinarian that lies near you? Site may be a significant concern for lots of proprietors, specifically if your canine possesses an urgent Jacksonville Beach.

 Carries out the veterinarian deal with unexpected emergencies after hrs or even recommend customers to a dog emergency situation medical facility? Several veterinarians no more user emergency situation gets in touch with after hrs however some still carry out. Figure out what a veterinarian's plan performs unexpected emergencies.

 Performs the veterinarian allow pet dog insurance policy? Discover out if your veterinarian takes dog insurance policy.

 You may likewise examine online. Numerous urban areas possess web sites which deliver customer testimonials of nearby vets. You might locate some severe assessments coming from unhappy customers, yet there must be actually an agreement.

[danmickthings92-blog]

8 Desired Cities In The World To Visit

Washington, DC, USA

Everyone's eyes will be on Washington, DC, this year, as the city praises the 100th commemoration of the nineteenth Amendment – the law that allowed ladies the privilege to cast a ballot. Famous historical centers like the National Portrait Gallery, the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of Women in the Arts will have extraordinary presentations identified with this significant achievement in human rights. Tie this into the fervor during the current year's presidential political decision and DC will be one of America's most unique urban areas in 2020. Legislative issues aside, Washington's renaissance is in full blossom, with a rejuvenated waterfront, celebrated new exhibition halls, and a detonating nourishment scene. Green rooftops, many recently planted trees, and a creative drifting wetlands framework have the city looking greener than at any other time.

AVIGNON, FRANCE

Rent A Car in Avignon permits you to investigate this unfathomably excellent and notable city at your own pace, unabated by the misfortunes of open transportation - ready to particularly customize your movement’s agenda to see and accomplish more during your excursion. When you've had your fill of the city, take to the street and drive along the apparently unending lavender fields, vineyards, and curious towns of Provence for a genuinely true French travel understanding.

Cairo, Egypt

Egypt waved Tutankhamun's fortunes off on a globe-trotting visit in 2018, announcing it the last time the pharaoh's internment goods would leave its shores. Need to stare at antiquated Egypt's riches later on? You'll have to visit Cairo's Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). The year 2020 is set to be the date – inshallah (God willing) – this best in a class exhibition hall in Giza tosses open its entryways. Head here to wonder about a stunning assortment in what will be the world's biggest historical center totally dedicated to one human progress. For the Red Sea and Luxor holiday makers, a Pyramids and GEM add-on will likewise turn into a doddle with Giza's recently initiated Sphinx Airport set to work for local flights.

KERRY, IRELAND

With its rambling mountains, serene lakes, and tough Atlantic coastline, County Kerry is broadly viewed as one of the most beautiful districts in the entirety of Ireland, and all things considered, a Kerry vehicle rental is by a wide margin the best strategy for transportation for investigating the huge broadness of moving wild, unusual attractions, and memorable design found here. Regardless of whether you're anxious to climb alongside the all-encompassing vistas of the Kerry Way strolling trail or investigate the rich history along the cobbled city lanes of Killarney, you're certain to discover motivation, unwinding, and peacefulness during an excursion to County Kerry.

SIENA, ITALY

Situated in the core of Tuscany, against a scenery of moving green slopes, palatial vineyards, and sun-drenched olive forests, is the memorable city of Siena - an ideal goal to completely encounter the unfathomable scope of Italian history and culture. With such a wide assortment of attractions in Siena and the encompassing Tuscan open country, leasing a vehicle in Siena permits you to investigate the city at your own pace, and bears you the capacity to set out on day outings to other interesting Italian goals, as close by Florence, Rome, and Naples.

MUNICH, GERMANY

Munich, as the capital of Bavarian culture, is a cosmopolitan city where rich history and present-day advancement coincide next to each other in a staggering showcase of exploratory potential, making it an ideal get-away goal for voyagers anxious to investigate Germany. With such a variety of unbelievable attractions to find, from the Oktoberfest festivities that occur in the core of the city every year to fantasy, rousing Neuschwanstein Castle found just shy of 2 hours away, car rental in Munich permits you to investigate Germany unhindered and appreciate customizing your movement schedule.

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

Home to an abundance of world-class exhibition halls, notable attractions, and lively nightlife, Copenhagen is generally viewed as one of Europe's best in class goals and is an extraordinary spot to investigate on an extended get-away. With such a bounty of fun activities in such a little nation, leasing a vehicle in Copenhagen makes for the most straightforward approach to investigate Denmark and all the energizing attractions on offer.  

Dubai, UAE

What's to come is presently in Dubai as the superlative-desiring emirate dispatches a few limit-pushing marquees extends in 2020. Top charging, obviously, goes to the half-year long World Expo 2020, where 190 countries go full scale in displaying the most recent dreams in supportability and portability (think: flying vehicles) in compositionally showstopping structures. Likewise expected to open is the Museum of the Future, a bureau of cutting edge ponders in an eye-formed structure trimmed with calligraphy. Then, two miles seaward, a Europe-themed dream resort on a fake archipelago called The World is outfitting to invite its first visitors to such just in-Dubai marvels as submerged rooms and all year day off.

Dubai is renowned for its remarkable splendor and impeccable tastefulness. At present, it is one of the most unmistakable business habitats on the planet. This appears from its nonstop progression and winning achievement.

The city has rich travel and the travel industry enterprises and by a long shot, figured as "a delight on the earth". It is such a noteworthy emirate, that everyone wants to vacation once in the lifetime.

Holidaying in Dubai is much the same as remaining in an unexplored Lala land with indescribable magnificence, dazzling chic and overpowering design. On the off chance that you have a global driving permit, it is a help for you since you will get a brief driving permit by simply demonstrating it to the approved assistance community. Spare a great deal by Rent A Car In Dubai from Car Rental Company in Dubai at a modest rate and drive to different popular areas with your family, companions, and family members.

Contingent upon your spending limit, you can Best Rent Car In Dubai, which may fluctuate from economy contain to extravagance contain. There are many online car rental services accessible on the net. Be that as it may, you should work insight-fully while picking a vehicle. On occasion, a portion of the organizations will draw you with various kinds of limits, which may confound you. You should surf the web and experience different terms and states of a Car Rental Company in Dubai. You will go over various sorts of arrangements. Be that as it may, there are a few hints that you ought to carefully follow on the off chance that you need to design everything in legitimate habits. Right off the bat, you ought to pick a vehicle according to your necessities, actually, you offer inclination to your and your family's solace.

Voyaging involvement with Dubai will squeeze on the off chance that you don't have the correct information on traffic rules. Since you will be new to the city, you can procure a teacher who realizes the city well. Dubai police is exceptionally exacting to drink and drive. In this case, it is smarter to refrain from intake, whereas at the same moment driving. Practically all vehicles accompany GPS pilot yet you should keep a guide for your security. Besides, select a regarded Online Best Car Rental Company Dubai with the goal that you get a decent arrangement. Going in Dubai is without bothering in the event that you have pre-planned everything.

For different purposes, you can likewise procure little transports, family bearers, four-wheel drives, and business vehicles. A few lodgings in Dubai can likewise mastermind the Best Car Rental Company In Dubai services for you.