#excess inventory

[willpaul229]

How Online Liquidation Auctions Help Clear Excess Inventory?

Excess inventory can be a significant challenge for businesses. When products accumulate beyond what is needed for normal operations or sales expectations, it ties up valuable capital, takes up storage space, and leads to higher carrying costs. One effective way to clear this excess inventory is through online liquidation auctions. These platforms provide businesses with the opportunity to quickly sell off surplus items and recoup some of their investment. Here’s how online liquidation auctions can help businesses clear excess inventory:

Wider Reach and Market Access

Online liquidation auctions provide businesses with access to a global market of buyers. Traditional liquidation methods may limit sellers to local buyers, but online platforms expose products to a much larger audience. This wider reach increases the chances of selling inventory quickly and at competitive prices. Whether the inventory consists of electronics, clothing, or industrial machinery, the ability to reach a broader pool of potential buyers is a significant advantage.

Faster Turnaround

Liquidating inventory through traditional methods such as sales or negotiations can take time. However, online auctions are typically structured to offer a faster process. Auctions are time-sensitive, with set deadlines for bidding. This urgency can motivate buyers to act quickly, resulting in a quicker turnover of excess stock. Businesses can clear inventory within days or weeks rather than months, freeing up storage space and reducing long-term carrying costs.

Transparency and Competitive Pricing

Online auctions allow for a transparent process, where multiple buyers can bid on items. This competition can drive prices closer to market value, helping businesses recover more of their investment than they might through other forms of liquidation, such as discounts or bulk sales to a single buyer. Buyers are often looking for deals, but the competitive nature of the auction can push the price higher than a flat sale price, especially for high-demand items.

Reduced Risk of Obsolescence

For businesses dealing with perishable goods, seasonal items, or technology that can quickly become outdated, online liquidation auctions can reduce the risk of inventory becoming obsolete. Auctions often attract buyers who are willing to take on products that others might consider too risky or unsellable. This can be particularly useful for businesses with items that have a limited shelf life or those trying to make room for new products.

Minimal Investment of Time and Resources

Compared to organizing a traditional sale or clearance event, online liquidation auctions require relatively little time and effort. Once the inventory is listed on the auction site, businesses can sit back and watch the bids come in. Most platforms handle the marketing, bidding, and even logistics of the transaction, leaving businesses free to focus on other areas of operation. This reduces the burden on the staff and can be a more cost-effective method for clearing inventory.

Scalable and Flexible Solutions

Whether a business has a few excess items or large quantities to clear, online liquidation auctions can scale to meet different needs. Sellers can list individual items or bulk lots, adjusting to the volume of inventory they need to offload. This flexibility ensures that businesses can use the platform effectively, whether they need to liquidate a small amount of stock or clear out a significant portion of their warehouse.

Conclusion

Online liquidation auctions are an efficient, flexible, and cost-effective way for businesses to clear excess inventory. By expanding market reach, accelerating sales cycles, and ensuring competitive pricing, businesses can regain valuable resources tied up in excess stock. The minimal effort involved and the potential to recover more capital make online liquidation auctions an attractive option for managing surplus inventory.

[empyreansentinel]

does anyone else have a certain way they like to start their minecraft worlds. im talking like super specific, down to the block.

[girlbob-boypants]

Huge fan of removing tedium so players can spend more time on actual stuff within the game

[promithiae]

Neopets is still alive? Wild. Wonder if they’re still run by scientologists

I never used the site myself but my friends at the time were obsessed. Also everything I heard about it since was insane (like Eve Online level free market insane). Sounded awesome and crazy in that particular wild west internet way

Apparently so! I'm pretty sure the no longer a scientology front, it's been sold off (probably more than once).

I never got into the like stock market or the auction house or anything, I just poked around and played dumb flash games, but from what I understand it was unfettered capitalism. I don't know if they've put regulations or whatever some I last played

[brandedsurplus]

Cheapest Branded Men Shirts- Original garment warehouse | ValueShoppe

[badgersaas]

BADGERS: Revolutionizing Surplus Materials Management

Explore BADGERS' innovative platform for surplus materials in energy and industrial sectors. Connect, minimize waste, and maximize cost savings with cutting-edge technology.

[nagalias-mindscape]

I joked, early into this challenge, that I would have an inventory full of throwing stones before I fought Mechtilda and Pen. I fully intend to make that a reality, but maybe I'll limit it to... a "Large Chest worth full of throwing stones" instead. A little more manageable than 150+ stacks of 999 throwing stones.

Gods know I miss a vast majority of my throws and Mechtilda requires you break her backside before you can actually deal damage to her.

[bloodychamber]

Ahh so I was scheduled at 5am for inventory today right. I get to work at 4:45 to be on time obvs and NO ONE was there. I tried calling and texting (and of course i only have the number for just 1 of my managers) and nothing, no response. All i could do was sit outside in 30 degree weather until people started showing up at 6 🙃

[kimmkitsuragi]

i thought i would have Even More Fun when astarion started to like me. now he wont stop saying things like "my dear" or even worse. "lover". help

[reasonsforhope]

It’s an open secret in fashion. Unsold inventory goes to the incinerator; excess handbags are slashed so they can’t be resold; perfectly usable products are sent to the landfill to avoid discounts and flash sales. The European Union wants to put an end to these unsustainable practices. On Monday, [December 4, 2023], it banned the destruction of unsold textiles and footwear.

“It is time to end the model of ‘take, make, dispose’ that is so harmful to our planet, our health and our economy,” MEP Alessandra Moretti said in a statement. “Banning the destruction of unsold textiles and footwear will contribute to a shift in the way fast fashion manufacturers produce their goods.”

This comes as part of a broader push to tighten sustainable fashion legislation, with new policies around ecodesign, greenwashing and textile waste phasing in over the next few years. The ban on destroying unsold goods will be among the longer lead times: large businesses have two years to comply, and SMEs have been granted up to six years. It’s not yet clear on whether the ban applies to companies headquartered in the EU, or any that operate there, as well as how this ban might impact regions outside of Europe.

For many, this is a welcome decision that indirectly tackles the controversial topics of overproduction and degrowth. Policymakers may not be directly telling brands to produce less, or placing limits on how many units they can make each year, but they are penalising those overproducing, which is a step in the right direction, says Eco-Age sustainability consultant Philippa Grogan. “This has been a dirty secret of the fashion industry for so long. The ban won’t end overproduction on its own, but hopefully it will compel brands to be better organised, more responsible and less greedy.”

Clarifications to come

There are some kinks to iron out, says Scott Lipinski, CEO of Fashion Council Germany and the European Fashion Alliance (EFA). The EFA is calling on the EU to clarify what it means by both “unsold goods” and “destruction”. Unsold goods, to the EFA, mean they are fit for consumption or sale (excluding counterfeits, samples or prototypes)...

The question of what happens to these unsold goods if they are not destroyed is yet to be answered. “Will they be shipped around the world? Will they be reused as deadstock or shredded and downcycled? Will outlet stores have an abundance of stock to sell?” asks Grogan.

Large companies will also have to disclose how many unsold consumer products they discard each year and why, a rule the EU is hoping will curb overproduction and destruction...

Could this shift supply chains?

For Dio Kurazawa, founder of sustainable fashion consultancy The Bear Scouts, this is an opportunity for brands to increase supply chain agility and wean themselves off the wholesale model so many rely on. “This is the time to get behind innovations like pre-order and on-demand manufacturing,” he says. “It’s a chance for brands to play with AI to understand the future of forecasting. Technology can help brands be more intentional with what they make, so they have less unsold goods in the first place.”

Grogan is equally optimistic about what this could mean for sustainable fashion in general. “It’s great to see that this is more ambitious than the EU’s original proposal and that it specifically calls out textiles. It demonstrates a willingness from policymakers to create a more robust system,” she says. “Banning the destruction of unsold goods might make brands rethink their production models and possibly better forecast their collections.”

One of the outstanding questions is over enforcement. Time and again, brands have used the lack of supply chain transparency in fashion as an excuse for bad behaviour. Part of the challenge with the EU’s new ban will be proving that brands are destroying unsold goods, not to mention how they’re doing it and to what extent, says Kurazawa. “Someone obviously knows what is happening and where, but will the EU?”"

-via British Vogue, December 7, 2023

[brandedgarmentswholesalers]

Buying Surplus Clothes in Bulk: How to Get the Best Deals

Are you looking to buy surplus clothes in bulk? Whether you are running a thrift store, a boutique, or just looking for some affordable clothing options, buying surplus clothing can be a great way to save money and get quality products. But how do you go about finding the best deals? We will give you some tips on how to buy surplus clothes lot in bulk and get the most bang for your buck.

Research Your Options

Before you start buying surplus clothes in bulk, it is important to do your research. Look for companies that specialize in selling surplus clothing and check their online reviews and ratings. You can also look for trade shows and industry events where surplus clothing vendors will be exhibiting. This can give you a chance to see and touch the products before you buy.

Consider Your Needs

When buying surplus clothes in bulk, it is important to consider your needs. What sizes do you need? How many pieces do you need? These are all crucial factors to check on before making a purchase. By knowing your needs, you can avoid buying too much of one thing and not enough of another.

Check for Quality

Just because you are buying surplus clothing doesn't mean you should sacrifice quality. Before making a purchase, inspect the clothing for any defects or damages. Check for tears, stains, and other imperfections. If the clothing is damaged, it may not be worth buying in bulk. You will also want to make sure the clothing is made from quality materials that will hold up over time.

Negotiate Prices

When buying surplus clothes in bulk, you may be able to negotiate prices with the vendor. If you are buying a large quantity of clothing, you may be able to get a better price per item. Don't be afraid to check for a discount or find it at a low price. You may be able to save a significant amount of money by doing so.

Have a Plan for Storage

Once you have purchased your surplus clothing, you will need a plan for storage. Make sure you have enough space to store the clothing and keep it organized. You may also want to consider investing in storage racks or shelves to keep the clothing off the ground and protected.

Before you start shopping for surplus clothing lots, make sure you know what types of clothing you need. Are you looking for specific sizes, styles, or brands? Knowing what you are looking for can help you narrow down your options and find the best deals on the clothing you need.

Research your suppliers

Not all suppliers of surplus clothing are created equal. Do your research to find reputable suppliers with a good track record of delivering high-quality clothing at competitive prices. Look for reviews from other retailers who have purchased from the same suppliers to get an idea of what to expect.

The whole point of buying surplus clothing lots is to save money by purchasing in bulk. Make sure you are taking advantage of this by buying as much as you can afford at once.

When you receive your surplus clothing lot, be prepared to sort through the items and organize them for sale. Some items may need to be cleaned or repaired before they can be sold, so factor in the time and resources needed to get your clothing ready for the sales floor.

Buying surplus clothes in bulk can be a great way to save money and get quality products. By doing your research, considering your needs, checking for quality, negotiating prices, and having a plan for storage, you can get the best deals on surplus clothing. So start shopping and find the perfect pieces for your store or personal wardrobe!

[willpaul229]

How To Sell Excess Inventory Through Online Liquidation Auctions?

Excess inventory can drain your business’s resources, tie up capital, and occupy valuable storage space. Leveraging online liquidation auctions is a smart strategy to convert this surplus into cash while creating opportunities for potential buyers. Here’s a step-by-step guide to effectively sell your excess inventory through this channel.

Assess Your Inventory

Before listing items, conduct a thorough assessment of your inventory. Categorize products by type, condition, and market demand. Clearly identify items that are obsolete, slow-moving, or surplus to streamline the liquidation process. Accurate descriptions will help attract buyers and set realistic expectations.

Determine Your Goals

Establish clear goals for your liquidation process. Are you looking to maximize profit, recover costs, or clear space quickly? These objectives will guide pricing strategies and the auction timeline. Flexibility in pricing may be necessary to attract bids, especially for items with limited market demand.

Organize and Document Items

Organize your inventory for easy handling and ensure all items are in presentable condition. Clean, repair (if necessary), and document each item with clear photographs and detailed descriptions. Transparency about condition, quantity, and specifications builds buyer confidence and minimizes disputes.

Select an Auction Format

Decide on the auction format that suits your needs. Common options include ascending price auctions, reserve auctions (where a minimum price is set), or bulk lot auctions for large quantities. Choose the format based on the nature of your inventory and the target audience.

Craft Compelling Listings

A well-crafted auction listing is crucial for attracting buyers. Use high-quality images taken from multiple angles and include comprehensive product descriptions. Highlight unique features, benefits, and any warranties or guarantees. Clear, professional listings improve the chances of competitive bidding.

Set Realistic Starting Prices

Setting the right starting price can encourage more bidders to participate. Research market trends and comparable sales to determine a competitive yet realistic price point. Avoid overpricing, as it may deter potential buyers from engaging in the auction.

Promote Your Auction

Promote your auction through various channels to reach a broader audience. Leverage email lists, social media, and industry-specific forums to inform potential buyers. Engaging marketing efforts can significantly increase visibility and bidding activity.

Monitor the Auction and Engage Buyers

Throughout the auction, monitor activity and address buyer inquiries promptly. Engaging with potential buyers demonstrates professionalism and can help secure higher bids. Be prepared to answer questions about shipping, bulk discounts, or product details.

Streamline Shipping and Logistics

Once the auction concludes, ensure a smooth transition for buyers. Arrange efficient shipping or pick-up options and communicate timelines. Providing excellent customer service post-sale can enhance your reputation for future liquidation efforts.

Evaluate and Optimize

After completing the liquidation process, evaluate the outcomes against your goals. Analyze what worked well and identify areas for improvement. Regular optimization of your liquidation strategy will help you achieve better results in future auctions.

Conclusion

Selling excess inventory through online liquidation auctions is an efficient way to recapture value from surplus goods. By adopting a strategic approach—focusing on organization, transparency, and promotion—you can turn your inventory challenges into profitable opportunities.

[nemo-writes]

⋆˚࿔ ⋆˚࿔ 𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐛𝐫𝐞 ; 𝐟𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝜗𝜚˚⋆𝜗𝜚˚⋆

↣ pack!tf141 x witch!reader

↣ chapter summary; after a tense confrontation with laswell, you find comfort and support in alejandro and rudy. but just as you're beginning to regain your footing, an unexpected call pulls you back into the fray.

⚠️ warnings; slightly graphic content, body horror

★ previous ; next

☆ story masterlist

Entering through the back door, you find Laswell already settled in the quiet of the bar, humming softly to a tune playing low over the speakers. She’s at ease, arranging bottles and tallying inventory, a steaming cup of tea beside her. The smell of fresh herbs mingles with the earthy scent of aged wood, creating a warmth that would normally be comforting. But today, it feels stifling. It’s strange to see her so relaxed, not even glancing up as you approach.

Finally, she looks up, her face softening with a small but welcoming smile. “Early morning for you too, I see,” she says, taking a sip of tea. “Couldn’t sleep, I take it?”

“Not quite,” you manage, biting back the surge of emotions. You clear your throat, shifting your weight, the ache in your injured ankle sharp and relentless, yet she seemed oblivious to your state.

“Is everything alright?” she asks, her tone too polite, too casual. “I was just going over inventory—didn’t expect any company.”

The sheer calmness in her voice, the way she doesn’t mention last night's missed call or notice the obvious signs of wear and urgency, makes your stomach churn with a dawning realization.

“Laswell, I’m here because something’s wrong. Deeply wrong,” you begin, pushing down the frustration building inside. “I have confirmed it—here, look,” you take out the nail and unwrap it, carefully keeping the cloth between it and your skin.

She barely glances at it, lifting her cup again. “It’s just a nail,” she says, a hint of bemusement in her tone. “Really, you’re letting your mind run away with whatever this is.���

You feel your chest tighten as you feel your face flush with a mix of indignation and flaring anger. "Laswell, I found this embedded in my floor—right where Ghost scratched it, again and again, after he attacked us. He nearly tore the place apart, and Sybil… she was badly hurt. Whatever this is, it's powerful. It's gotten into him, into all of them!"

You’re practically pleading now, voice rising, words tumbling over each other in near hysteria. "S-someone is using Leah as a conduit. It’s a manipulation curse, this isn't some baseless paranoia—it's real, and it's tearing us apart from the inside out!"

Still, she doesn’t respond with the urgency you need. Instead, she watches you with that frustratingly calm demeanour.

Laswell sighs, setting her cup down as though indulging you. “You’ve always been dramatic, but this is getting excessive. Think about it: a nail?” She offers a patronising half-smile. “It’s unlike you, letting yourself be so easily swept away.”

Her words are like a slap. You feel the fury finally bubbling over, mixed with disbelief. “I’m not imagining things. I need you to see it for what it is—”

But she only raises her hand, dismissing you with a calm indifference. “Enough, really. There’s no curse here, no manipulative power. Just a town, a pack, and emotions running high. Take a few days, step back, and you’ll see it, too.”

Your hands tremble as you clutch the cursed nail. The way she brushes off your concerns, the lack of urgency despite everything you’ve told her—it’s too much to bear. Without another word, you turn on your heel, seething, but not before leaving him with some scalding last words.

“This town, these people—you’re supposed to protect them,” you say, your voice sharp and bitter. “What good is all that power if you’re blind to everything that’s rotting under your own roof?” The words hang in the air, and before she can respond, you storm out, the cursed nail still in your grip, its weight like a reminder of everything gone wrong.

. . .

Outside, the cold air hits you, but it does nothing to cool your anger. Just as you take a shaky breath, a car pulls up with a shrill just a few steps ahead, and your heart jumps. Then, you spot Alejandro and Rudy inside, their expressions shadowed with something. Instinct flares, and you stiffen, suspicious and guarded. You take a step back, but Alejandro calls out to you.

“Preciosa (Precious/Darling) get in,” Alejandro urges, his voice carrying a sense of urgency. “We need to talk.”

You hesitate by the curb, your instincts still buzzing from your one-sided confrontation with Laswell. Alejandro’s face is unreadable, but Rudy leans over from the passenger seat, his eyes searching yours with concern.

“We know about the attack,” he says, his tone low, though you sense his anger just beneath the surface. “Alejandro and I found Ghost earlier today. He was…covered in blood. Your blood.”

After a breathless pause, you nod and climb into the back seat. The door shuts with a thump, and Alejandro swiftly pulls away from the curb, guiding the car back into the street. 

“We saw the state of your place. And also we found Sybil.” Alejandro's gaze meets yours through the rearview mirror, his usual hard expression softening. “She told me everything.”

A wave of relief washes over you. They know—they understand. You’re no longer alone in this nightmare, and the realisation loosens something inside you. The strength you’d clung to so desperately wavers, and for a moment, you almost break.

“I see,” you manage, voice thick with the strain of it all.

Rudy reaches over from the driver’s seat, his brow furrowing as he gives you a careful once-over, spotting your wrapped ankle right away. “Are you hurt anywhere else?” he asks quietly, reaching out to lift your wrist and gently turn your arm, checking for bruises or scrapes that might’ve been missed. His fingers hover over your shoulder, where you wince, and he draws his hand back slightly, though his concern is palpable.

Alejandro peeks at you from over his shoulder. “You look like you haven’t slept in days,” he says before looking back at the road, voice steady but laced with concern. “Let's just head back to your shop. We’ll talk there.”

His words are firm, leaving no room for argument. Beside him, Rudy nods, his hand still resting on yours as if grounding you. “You’re not doing this alone,” he adds, gentle but insistent.

Seeing them both so attuned to the toll this has taken on you, the comfort of their presence chips away at the wall you’ve held up, giving you space to breathe—if only for a moment.

The drive back  is spent in tense conversation as you bring them up to speed, laying out everything—the cursed nail, Leah’s manipulation, and your suspicions about the pack’s infection. Rudy listens intently from the passenger seat, brows drawn with a mix of disbelief and concern. Alejandro nods along, his jaw tight, gripping the steering wheel as you delve into the twisted details.

When you arrive at the shop, they immediately set to work. Alejandro rolls up his sleeves and begins putting everything Ghost toppled back into place, lifting shelves and setting furniture upright. Meanwhile, Rudy moves closer to inspect your injuries. Despite your insistence that they’re fine, he gently checks over your bandages, his expression softened with a mix of care and worry.

Alejandro pauses, dusting his hands off. “We shouldn’t stay for too long,” he says, voice low, as if half-worried the town itself might hear. “If the pack’s fallen under whatever's hanging over Leah’s, then it’s only a matter of time before it tries to spread. Whatever’s protecting us might not hold up if we stay around.”

A lump forms in your throat at the thought of being left alone again, but he doesn’t give you time to dwell on it. “Look, we can help in one more way,” he adds. “Let us take that nail, and we’ll get it checked out. We know people—ones who are good at tracking this sort of thing.”

You hesitate for a moment but know he’s right. Their network is solid, and they might be your best shot at uncovering the root of this twisted curse. Finally, you nod.

Rudy and Alejandro then continue to finish helping to restore some semblance of order to the wrecked shop. Only when the last of the glass is swept away and the floor looks almost recognizable do they finally step back, taking a moment to exchange glances. They’re still worried, you can tell, but the relief in their eyes says they can see you’re calmer now—more prepared to handle what’s to come.

Alejandro puts a hand on your shoulder, swiping some hair away from your face, his voice steady. “Remember, we’re a call away. And say goodbye to Sybil for us, yeah?”

Rudy nods, adding, “Yeah, tell her to stay safe. Both of you.”

You give them both a small smile, touched by their concern. They head for the door, casting one last, reassuring look over their shoulders. “Buena suerte, (Good luck)” Alejandro says as they finally step outside. “You’ll figure this out, and if you need us, we’re only a call away.”

As the door clicks shut behind them, the silence settles around you, leaving only the lingering comfort of their support. You turn back to the remnants of your shop, now tidier and slightly more familiar. But there’s no mistaking the weight still hanging in the air, pressing you forward.

. . .

Later that day, you’re carefully tending to Sybil. Between gentle touches, you juggle phone calls to regular shoppers, letting them know their orders will be delayed, and texting to suppliers, asking them to hold off until next week.

"Yes, Mrs. Eldridge, I understand the urgency. I’ll have the tonic for you as soon as possible. A few more days, thank you so much for your patience."

“Can you give me just a few more days? I’m handling some unforeseen… complications.”

The anxiety gnaws at you, a creeping feeling that your business teeters on a precarious edge. You remind yourself, almost like a mantra, that you have some savings—it’s enough to keep things afloat, for a time. But only if matters resolve quickly.

Returning your attention to Sybil, you feel the weight of it all settle onto your shoulders, heavier than you care to admit. You reach out, pressing a soft kiss to her snoot. “We’ll make it through, love. One way or another, we’ll figure this out.”

You settle on the floor, back pressed against the edge of your bed where Sybil is resting, her breathing calm but shallow. Your contact book lies open across your lap, and your phone is balanced precariously on your knee as you scroll through names and numbers, ticking off the people you’ve already called. Each tick brings a sense of relief, a small semblance of control in the storm that has upturned your life. You pause, taking a moment to rub your temples, feeling the weight of exhaustion settle in your bones.

As you prepare to make another call, the sudden shrill ring of your phone pierces the quiet. The sound jolts you, and your grip tightens reflexively. Glancing down at the screen, your heart flounders and tightens painfully. Price. His name flashes across the screen, dread washing over you—why call now?

You nearly don’t answer. But your thumb hovers, and before you can talk yourself out of it, you press accept and bring the phone to your ear.

“….Hello?”

His voice comes instantly through, raw and laced with an edge you’ve never heard before. “It’s Leah,” he says, words tumbling over each other. “She’s burning up, sick as hell, and nothing’s working. We can’t get the fever down. We’ve tried everything.”

“And so you called me?” you say, voice hardening against the anger rising in your chest. “After everything, you think I’m the one to fix this?”

He’s silent for a beat, then quietly, “Yes.” He doesn’t try to justify it, and the simple honesty in his answer makes you hesitate, grounding the anger you wanted to unleash. This wasn’t just a request—this was desperation.

“Start from the beginning,” you say, voice tight but steady. “Tell me every detail of her symptoms, when they started, how they’ve progressed—don’t leave anything out.”

Price’s voice, strained but controlled, begins to unravel the story: Leah had seemed fine until a few nights ago, just tired, but by morning, the fever had set in—high, unrelenting, and resistant to everything they’d tried. She’s grown weaker by the hour, barely coherent. His descriptions blur into each other, desperation breaking through his calm as he shares every attempt they’ve made, every remedy that’s failed.

As he speaks, you descend the stairs into your shop, eyes scanning over the remnants of what’s left. Some vials remain intact, and you sift through them, gathering anything that might help—the fever reducers, the cleansing tonics, a few precious herbs that hadn’t been shattered in the chaos.

“Alright,” you say when he’s finished, stuffing the gathered supplies into your bag with a steady hand. “I’ll bring what I can and get there as soon as possible. Just… keep her comfortable, and don’t try anything else. I’ll be there soon.”

You go back up to find Sybil with her head raised, her large eyes full of a quiet, unwavering insistence. She’s done laying around; every inch of her posture says as much. She huffs, as if to say, If you’re going, so am I. You hesitate, feeling the weight of her stare—knowing she’s right. If whatever is behind this catches you apart, it’ll only make things worse.

Sighing, you brush a hand over her snout and murmur, “Alright, girl, you win.” Carefully and balancing your bag on one shoulder, you lift her and move her into the truck, arranging some blankets you keep in your trunk to make her as comfortable as possible. Sybil settles there, eyes sharp and ready as you get a move on.

When you reach the house and park your truck, you dig into your bag and pull out a small bundle of sage, binding it to the rearview mirror with a careful knot. Whispering a few words over it, you weave a protective spell that should shield Sybil from harm while alerting you if anything—or anyone—tries to break into the truck.

You lean over the seat and give her a gentle kiss on her head, murmuring, “Stay safe, girl. I’ll be back soon.” She watches you leave, calm but alert.

As you walk up the driveway, memories drift up. The last time you were here, Leah had answered the door, her face bright despite the chaos inside. Now, as you step up to the door, the silence presses down like a heavy weight.

No one comes to greet you. The door creaks open with a single push, echoing down the empty hall as you slip inside, clutching your bag of supplies. The moment you step further into the threshold, the stench hits you—a sickly blend of decay and stale air. Instinctively, you raise a hand to cover your nose, eyes narrowing as you take in the disarray around you.

The entryway is a wasteland of discarded belongings, papers scattered and kicked to the sides, dusty furniture slumped as though forgotten. You feel the hairs on your neck prickle—Price would never leave things like this. And as for Gaz…his wards are gone, their faint warmth and hum that once guarded the house is now absent.

You continue forward, each step creaks underfoot, the house itself feeling more hollow, like it’s been emptied of any life it once held. Climbing the stairs, the stench only worsens. Passing door after door, you scan each room until, finally, near the far end of the hall, you find him.

Price sits on the floor, back against the wall, head in his hands. He doesn’t look up, doesn’t even flinch as you approach. His clothes rumpled, stained, his usual military crispness replaced by a weary, slumped figure.

“John?” you call softly, your voice barely a whisper.

He lifts his head, and the exhaustion in his eyes is like a punch to the gut. His beard is wild and unkempt, deep lines crease his face, shadows under his eyes dark and hollow. He looks up at you as if he’s only half-awake, half-alive, struggling to register that someone else is even there.

“It’s…you,” he mumbles, a hint of relief breaking through the fog in his eyes. “Didn’t think you’d come.”

His words are tinged with something raw, almost pleading, and you tighten your grip on your bag. “Of course I came. I tried to reach you all, and you didn’t—” you bite back the accusation, the fear twisting into frustration. “…what the hell happened here?”

Price’s gaze flickers away, his shoulders slumping further. He rubs a hand over his face, trying to muster some semblance of composure, but it crumbles almost immediately. “I don’t know,” he admits quietly, voice hoarse. “Things just…fell apart.”

His words are weak and lacklustre. You want to lash out, unleash the anger and frustration that's been building since you first walked through the door—the endless, ignored messages, the silence, the sheer neglect they've let fester. You want to scream at him for allowing things to come to this. 

But reality hangs heavy in the air. No amount of shouting will help undo things. 

“Where's everyone else?” you ask, trying to mask your anxiety.

“Gaz is inside with Leah,” he replies, his voice taut with worry. “Ghost… he’s locked himself away in the far wing of the house. We’ve set up protective spells on the door to keep him contained. And Soap—he’s somewhere in the forest, too feral to be around right now.”

You swallow the lump in your throat, and square your shoulders. With Ghost gone for now....you feel a little safer. “Show me to Leah,” you say, voice steady. “We can talk about everything else later.”

He stands up and guides you into the room, which is Inside is clean, organised, and untouched by the decay and disorder in the rest of the house. Just as you step inside, Gaz appears, his gaze catching yours with a flash of shock. “You…you came.” His voice is hoarse, filled with a mix of disbelief and hope.

But you cut him off with a look. “I’ll talk to both of you once I’ve seen Leah.” You push past him, heart pounding as you approach the bed.

Leah lies there motionless, her skin pale and almost translucent, sweat dampening her hair as she struggles to breathe. She’s a shadow of the person you remember, her body frail, almost brittle-looking. You press your hand to her forehead, feeling the unnatural heat radiating off her. 

Setting up on the nightstand, you start with a fresh egg and an empty cup. “I need to check for any curses or malign influences,” you explain to Price and Gaz, who hover close, concern etched on their faces. You position the egg over Leah, your breath catching as you begin to run it gently over her body. 

As you pass the egg over her chest, it feels heavy in your hand, and you take note of that at the back of your thoughts. When you finally pull it away and break it over the cup, you grimace at what comes out: the contents are putrid, blackened and oozing a foul-smelling substance. 

“Damn it,” you curse under your breath, your heart racing as the implications sink in. “This is worse than I thought.”

Panic flares in Price’s eyes, and Gaz leans in closer, both of them wanting to understand, to help. “What does it mean?” Price asks, his voice tense with fear.

“Out!” you shout, frustration boiling over. “Both of you, out! I can’t think with you hovering like that!” The urgency in your voice surprises even you, but they back off reluctantly, exchanging glances that communicate their worry.

Once the door closes behind them, the air feels a bit lighter, and you let out a shaky breath. You pull the covers off Leah, apologising under your breath. “I’m sorry, Leah. I need to do this.” Gently, you start to examine her body, careful and methodical. You can’t shake the guilt of not getting her consent first, but you know this is necessary.

You search her body meticulously, hoping to find any physical signs of injury or affliction. But as you scan her limbs, you find nothing—no cuts, no bruises. Just skin that feels too hot, a pulse that’s weak and fluttering. Anxiety gnaws at you; if there’s nothing physical, then what is causing this?

With no other options left, you resort to the looking glass spell—one you keep at the back of your mind and rarely use. You quickly step out, and catch Gaz’s attention with a quiet call of his name. John is nowhere to be seen.

He steps forward immediately, brows knitted in concern. “What is it?”

You hesitate only a moment before asking, “Could you bring me a bowl of warm water? And some soap—any kind, just… something that’ll make enough bubbles.”

Gaz’s expression flickers with curiosity and a bit of worry, but he nods. “Sure thing. Won’t take a minute.” He disappears down the hall and into the kitchen.

Within moments, he’s back, handing you a small basin filled with steaming water and a bottle of liquid soap. “Anything else?”

You shake your head, barely sparing him a glance back. “No, I’ve got it from here.”

He glances at Leah, and with a brief nod backs away, closing the door softly behind him.

You shake your head in dismay, before squeezing a healthy amount of soap into bowl and dipping your hands in, the heat soothing against your chilled fingers. You rub your palms until a layer of bubbles forms, the light, pearlescent film floating just above the surface. Steadying yourself, you shape your hands into a ring, forming a delicate, translucent ‘looking glass’ with your thumb and index finger.

You take a deep breath, focusing your energy, letting it flow from your fingertips into the circle as you gaze through it. The room dims, the world beyond your fingers blurring, until the scene sharpens again, revealing the inside of Leah’s chest.

Inside, her heart pulses faintly, its rhythm disturbingly slow, a faint and fragile beat. Wrapped tightly around it is a writhing, segmented parasite—long and winding, like some twisted centipede. It coils and constricts, pulsating in time with her heartbeat as though feeding off her very life force.

A sickening wave of horror hits you, and you gasp, the bubble popping and breaking the spell. This is forbidden magic—and worse of all, vampiric in nature. Your hands shake, and you clutch them tightly to your chest, fighting the urge to look away from her still form on the bed.

It’s one thing to read about such creatures in dusty old texts, where they’re distant, almost mythological threats. But to see it here, wrapped around Leah’s heart, consuming her from within…!

You’d need something far beyond the usual tools to dislodge it. The necessary charms, wards, and talismans to attempt such a removal aren’t here in your humble kit, and even if they were… you’re not sure you’d be able to muster the energy needed. Not now. Not after everything.

Your thoughts immediately freeze, instantly conjuring the one person who could help—a name surfacing like an unwanted ghost in your mind. The thought of her makes your skin prickle, a reflexive dread settling deep in your gut.

Unlike before, you wouldn't be calling for a friend. No, far from it.

You glance at your discarded phone, wet fingers hovering just over the screen. To ask for her help would mean facing scrutiny, judgement—the cold, familiar sting of disappointment. Worst of all, the quiet, unspoken proof of what you already fear: that you were never strong enough on your own.

But right now, there’s no time to weigh the consequences. And so, you dial a number, that even thought you had long deleted from your contacts, you still know by heart.

The line rings, each tone echoing your mounting anxiety, and when it finally clicks, silence stretches between you and the other end. You know she’s there—she’s just waiting for you to speak, to ask for what you need.

You squirm, shifting your weight as you muster the courage to break the tension. After what feels like an eternity, you finally manage to speak, the words tumbling out in a rush.

“Mother,” you say, your voice barely above a whisper, strained with urgency. “I need your help.”

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