#game: equinox's journey

[forthedancingandthethriving]

Had a funny idea for an optional recruitable character that could potentially be "added" to Equinox's Journey as either part of the "The Dragon that Faces the Earth and Sea" update or some more minor, less-plot-important update down the road;

Alexander, a bounty hunter/anti-imperial vigilante of some notoriety who's been operating out of a tavern on the edge of some kind of mystic forest that's a major area in the game. He's a somewhat tall human man with brown hair (including a short but stylish mustache) wearing a mostly grey-blue classic D'n'D-Ranger-type outfit made for both protection and mobility, and primarily wields some kind of magitech crossbow...gun...things (since from what I've seen in the posts so far I figured it would be the kind of game to have stuff like that).

He's pretty obviously a Beyonder like Root, seeing as he can't remember anything prior to being found half-mauled by a monster in the woods by the Tavern owner (other than his name at least), he doesn't quite fit the game's artstyle... aaaand almost all of his dialogue is in stereotypical mid-2000's gamer slang.

...Yeah it's Swag. He got noclipped like Root because that seems like Exactly the sort of thing that would happen to him. Unlike Root his amnesia wasn't the result of the transportation itself but due to his injuries and trauma from that mauling I mentioned. He's going by Alexander because I'm making that his real name (remember; when he first met Chris in the first Guards 'n [REDACTED] episode he refused to give his real name and demanded he be addressed by his Gamer Handle), and I figured that 1: it made sense that with the amnesia he'd potentially remember his given name but not his preferred alias, and 2: if he still went by Swag it'd be a Dead Giveaway for who he is and where he came from. Instead his somewhat generic appearance and name allow him to just read as a Funny Metajoke Character.

The reason he's against the Espi Empire boils down to "Of course the Empire's evil, all empires are evil. It's logistically impossible for one government to rule that many nations without committing numerous horrific ongoing atrocities" He had no idea about the cultist stuff but considering the setting he isn't surprised by it when they get him up to speed after his recruitment sidequest is done and he joins the party.

(just thought it would be funny. feel free to ignore if it doesn't work with the story you're going for)

OH THIS,,, I LOVE THIS,,

Yeah, I'm definitely going to add Alexander/Swag, especially because Root would get the feeling she knows him. But she doesn't get why, so she keeps her mouth shut, especially because of her tolerance to the slang he uses, meaning to her, he is someone she probably knew of her in her past. Still, doesn't mean she doesn't get a little annoyed..

[skoulsons]

I love how tainted the Ghost of Tsushima world is

Sure, the scenery is remarkable and when you visit places like Tadayori’s rest, field of the equinox flower, the kishi grasslands, or even the view from atop Jogaku’s pagoda

But the world is tainted. You can ride anywhere and find burned bodies on pikes. Peasants killed by small boats on a coast somewhere. Families killed together. Even places considered sacred, like fox dens, can be not so beautiful—there’s a guy dead on a goza mat at the one in Kashine

Most of the side takes involve death to some degree. The man who ran from his wife and child and basically left them to die. The woman who drowned herself bc she carried so much guilt. Even some mythic tales with people like Yasuhira Koga who used the heavenly strike to kill innocents. Burned farmsteads. Burned homes. People taken hostage in the street and in the comfort of their homes

Even more so on Iki! Mongols hurt the areas of animal sanctuaries and even kill the beautiful animals that find solace in those places. They cage monkeys and cats and make the people there drink poison that torments them unless they cave in to the Mongols

I don’t know. The game is so much more than ‘wow look at that pretty sunset’. Even something as normal as riding your horse around, you see so much violence and death from what the Mongols inflicted on the people of Tsushima. You see the hurt and the pain and the heartbreak as Jin’s journey continues and, as the player, grow to also want to protect the people of the island

[fernthewhimsical]

Fern's Cernunnos Deep Dive pt. 3

Correspondences:

🦌 Animals: stag, dog, bull, horned serpent, wolf, all animals 🦌 Crystals/rocks: adder stone, green goldstone, moss agate, petrified wood, golden pyrite 🦌 Flowers/plants: the oak, trees in general, moss, ferns, briars 🦌 Food/drink: game meat, whisky, dark red wine, mushrooms, decadent chocolate, blackberries 🦌 Colours: greens, bronzes, golds, dark browns 🦌 Moon phases: new and dark moon 🦌 Festivals: Beltane and the autumn equinox 🦌 Magics: cycles, hunting, protection, liminality, journeying, fae magic, wealth, success in business, release, ancestor work, connecting with nature, re-wilding 🦌 Nature: the forests, cattle, trees, animals, decay 🦌 Other: bow and arrow, furs, bonfires, torcs, coins, antlers

How to honour:

🏹 Go on a forest walk (or run) 🏹 Make a donation to forest preservation 🏹 Clean the natural spaces around you 🏹 Go on a spirit journey to visit him or his realm 🏹 Build a bonfire 🏹 Dance 🏹 Practice witchcraft

Prayers:

Praise be to you, oh, Horned One Lord of the crackling flame, and sun swept meadow Father to all those who hunt and run King of the wildest nights and deepest woods I honour you.

Cernunnos Lord of the liminal, the in-between The place between life and death, man and woman, hunter and hunted Lord of the cycles of life, of both ancient moss covered forests, and hallowed burial mounds King to all who live in your realms, plant and animal, witch and Fae, and all that lies in between. I honour you

[Masterpost]

[kuwdora]

Saturday Morning Vid Recs - Video Games

@poetikat ! So you like video games. WELL! I come bearing video game recs from around the Internet, deep into old vidshows of yester-vidding fandom-year, and my bookmarks and recs posts. There’s always way more video game vids out there, esp on AO3 - search for your video game fandom and the Fanvids tag and see what comes up in your results.

Some of these vids date back a decade or more and some are very recent. They’re all awesome and so interesting to watch.

Video Game Vids!

America by @beccatoria. Mass Affect: Andromeda. #colonialism

Hard Times by absternr. Portal. I laughed and cried. Gonna make you wonder why you even try.

Riverside by milly. Tomb Raider (2013). I see how everything is torn in the river deep", Lara PoV. Vid for the 2013 Tomb Raider game.

River by milly. Tomb Raider (2018) This is so fucking gorgeous. Stand and deliver. / Made for VividCon Challenge "Full Circle" in 2018, a sequel/parallel to "Riverside". Reverse Dance by @aurumcalendula. Dishonored. A great character vignette! Billie through the years.

Pop Galaxy by AbsoluteDestiny. Super Mario Galaxy. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. I’m really in love with the use of the camera angles from the game, and this pop medley is very much a banger of 2013. It’s so much fun.

Scream and Shout by @rhoboat77. Assassin’s Creed. I’m forever screaming about how awesome this vid is in my head but now I share it with everyone. Forever shouting because rhoboat captured all of the game footage!! To make THIS VID. The skill and talent and sheer fucking perseverance to perform some of these actions in the game specifically for this vid. Everything is permitted.

Pop That Lock by @kuwdora. Final Fantasy VII: Remake. Cloud/everyone. Final Fantasy + Adam Lambert = my groove. You got the key to your release, so pop that lock until you’re lighter than air.

D U S K by niyalune. Outer Wildes. This game is gorgeous and this vid is so fucking beautiful and full of wonder and heart "The universe is, and we are."

We’re Here Because We’re Here by violace. Journey 2012. We're here because we're here. Maybe it's really that simple.

Brother (Last Ride) by @kuwdora. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. The wolves of Kaer Morhen. I captured all my own game footage for this vid! A first for me. We face the fire together, brothers 'til the end. Never Seen The Light of Day by violace. Bioshock Infinite. This character study really takes you on Elizabeth's journey! Amazing song choice and what a game. And the truth shall set you free. -- A tribute to Elizabeth.

Birds, Birds, Birds by bironic. Wingspan. Tabletop game play, video game, trailers. Bironic has done it again and created something so incredible and something I haven’t seen before and inspired me and struck everyone full of awe and love. I got birdies, dawg.

9 to 5 by @eruthros. Lego Star Wars. This is so damn cute! It's a tough life for a clone trooper or stormtrooper.

One Foot by @kuwdora. Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order. Cal Kestis my beloved. Taking this one step at a time.

Start Wearing Purple by @findmeinthealps Mythic Quest. Not a video game per se but about the people who make them. Poppy Li and Iann Grimm. Hot messes who end up making some great and terrible choices along the way. All your sanity and wits, they will all vanish, I promise.

Hurry, Hurry, Hurry by @marahsarie. Outer Wildes. This vid!! is so cute!! and wonderful!! All my friends and all the loose ends and this love of mine, 'cause I'm running out of time.

Anything For Love (Including That) by caramarie Mass Effect/Dragon Age. Thanks for the terrible romantic choices, Bioware.

For more video game vids:

Vidding community on dreamwidth - see the games tag: dishonored, carmen san diego,resident evil and more.

Vividcon Database: 2013 Video Games Vidshow

Spring Equinox 2013 theme: Game On! which includes video games (and sports game themes)

Vidding Discord: ask for recs from more vidders!

Previous Saturday Morning Vid Recs:

Women!

Space and Robots

Animals

Follow the tags to keep up with recs this summer:

#saturday morning vid recs

#kuwdora vid recs

#kuwdora recs

A helpful guide I wrote:

How to Leave Feedback on Fanvids

[sweet-hearts-and-destiny-knots]

While outlining the Kalos arc, I fell into a new Leaf ship by accident 😭 It made me think about your quote about Pokemon being an otome game, which is funny bc I don't often meet people who are so chill with shipping as a concept lol, I'm not even a shipper in writing, more of a ship teaser but sometimes its just fun to discuss and imagine you know? I remember you saying you had multiple routes, but the guys we know were the "main boys" I'm curious to know what other rare pairs you like! And then while catching up on your blog, I saw you listed some out, "a vast assortment" 👀 are there more you're holding back on sharing? It's no trouble, we'd be happy hear them out! What kind of ships did you have the honor of bestowing a name upon :D My newest Leaf ship is x Alain. Still looking, but I've considered ship names like...BlueLuster, Solstice, Equinox...trying to go for that subtle symbolism. Steven references him in ORAS as an easter egg if you show him a shiny Beldum I think, so I'm like...lmao, what if I give game!Leaf her Kalosian boyfriend too (joke joke, but 👀) funniest thing to text the Kantrio gc. The boys will flip. There's not a lot of eligible bachelors in Kanto huh? I've only seen Leaf ships with Brock and Bill for the guys, Misty and Erika for the girls. Been slowly finding out how much ship teasing is in ScarVio, how lucky for the self-shippers XD they should do that more :3 Also aw man 😔 yeah the girls and the region locked Pokemon. I've seen someone HC that Galar has a rule banning entry of certain Pokemon into the region to explain the lack of a National Dex. Does your AU have anything like that? If they'd given us Alolan Leaf </3 she'd at least see something...I also saw what you said about naming Gloria's Intelion "Julian" and lol, I feel that, before their names came out I was thinking OOOH TINKATON. I'll customize the player as Steven's lil sister <3 and name her Josee <3 but before that, I was like, if regular custom, then maybe Julie? So her canon name was a surprise XD Ooh, and about Silver. While nostalgia might definitely play a role, the Silver fans I know like him bc of the plot potential of him being Giovanni's son and the subtle character arc he goes through. He never abandons his Pokemon despite calling them weak, gets the classic Golbat friendship evolution, his arrogance reads more like trying to prove a point to himself bc of Gio literally leaving him in a random parking lot at age 8-9. A lot of his speech actually mirrors what Rocket grunt NPCs tell you in-game. The switch from saying "I" to "we." The Dragon's Den, Dad Lance adoption speedrun everybody likes. I suppose there's also the potential "Red/Leaf are related to Gio" theory with the Scientist Gideon mistaking us for Gio's kid, until remembering the red hair bit. I always assumed it was bc we shared those facial features, or the eye color. Another possibility is that Silver was on that island and we were the only kid the scientist ran into, which raises the theory that he's been watching the player hiding in Gio's office somewhere the whole time. If you're a Chikorita!Silver truther, its evolutions pokedex mimics him too. Meganium, the final evo, releases a soothing scent. Bayleef, the midway journey, releases a scent that makes you want to fight. I know there's a lot of analysis ppl have done, but this is all I can remember off the top of my head. Now I'm wondering how the relationship between the KanJoh generation is written, how does their story play out? Is it just like the games, with Green going @/Lyra like he did with Red, "you look kind of like her...just a bit."

Oh, what a detailed message! But I believe the reason why I seem so "chill" with shipping as a concept is due to the fact I haven't forgotten this is meant to be a fun activity. Certainly there are some pairings as well as dynamics I deeply despise, however I prefer to place my focus on what brings me happiness.

All the pairings I've accumulated thus far involving the protagonists are listed in a past post, which you seem to have read. The ones I've bestowed a name to are:

LeafStoneshipping (Brock x Leaf) Barriershipping (Avery x Gloria) Wieldershipping (Volo x Akari) BrilliantDiamondshipping (Adaman x Akari) CandyTruffleshipping (Melli x Akari) Tracksuitshipping (Drayton x Juliana) SnowQuartzshipping (Grusha x Juliana)

Additionally, no, there is no such rule in place which prohibits certain Pokémon not native to Galar or Paldea. At some point Akari, or rather Hikari, visits the latter with Sariel, her Alpha Togekiss, who very much enjoys the vast varieties of food available!

I personally perceive Silver as a fascinating character for all the above reasons and more. Nostalgia also doesn't exactly affect my view of him since I didn't have the opportunity to play HeartGold and SoulSilver until relatively recently.

But with how strangely members of the fanbase behaved towards Kieran before the release of The Indigo Disk, as well as Volo in ways I don't even want to discuss here, I couldn't help wondering if Silver is lucky enough to escape that sort of discourse simply due to the time period he was introduced to the series.

It's actually interesting you ask about the relationship between the Kanto and Johto characters in Sisterhood, because I wrote a post just the other night involving Leaf, Green, Kotone, and Silver which I intend to share sometime soon.

Thank you for showing such interest!

[audiofictionuk]

New Fiction Podcasts - 29th September 2024

Escape From Morinia Audio Drama Escape From Morinia is an anime inspired audio drama. The Story follows Miyasaki Chin (Miyo) , a college student who gets trapped in his brother’s favorite video game. He is then unwillingly enrolled in the “Tournament of Destiny”, which would be easy… if he knew anything about video games. He is quested with navigating powers, finding allies and most importantly Escaping Morinia with his life. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240923-01 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/f5618974/podcast/rss

AthraPlay Audio RPG Exploring the lesser-trod paths of Tolkien's legendarium through role playing games! An RPG actual play podcast featuring adventures in Middle-earth using The One Ring RPG system. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240922-01 RSS: https://feeds.simplecast.com/HJslsnNX

Equinox Anthology Audio Drama An anthology of short fiction from some of the most inventive and creative indie audio storytellers working today. Released every Equinox and Solstice, each episode features short sci-fi audio works created just for this show, all around a particular theme. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240922-02 RSS: https://feeds.redcircle.com/ea51ded7-0b48-4b2e-95d6-0d641e1a7e8d

A Cold and Heartless Lullaby -Full Cast Immersive Audiobook- Audio Book After the world collapses a lone robot is tasked with the care of a little girl but both he and the world that remains are woefully unsuited. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240919-05 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/fb3cabf8/podcast/rss

A Dictionary Of Ukrainian Emotions Audio Drama The podcast "The Dictionary of Ukrainian Emotions" offers a captivating nine-episode series featuring plays by Ukrainian playwrights from the Theatre of Playwrights. Hosted by the translator and creator of the play series "A Dictionary of Emotions in a Time of War" John Freedman, each episode presents not only the performances of these powerful short plays, but also insightful conversations with the playwrights and actors Alessandra Torresani, Kristin Milward, Wayne Maugans, Kevin McMonagle, Kathleen Chalfant etc., who bring them to life. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240924-01 RSS: https://feeds.captivate.fm/a-dictionary-of-emotions/

The Lazy Gamers Present: RPG Adventures Audio RPG This is where you can listen to The Lazy Gamers journey into various worlds playing some of their favorite Tabletop Role Playing Games. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240821-08 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/fb7fda68/podcast/rss

Muein Mystery School Adventures Audio Book Most listeners want more from an historical audio drama than simply escapism.   With Muein Adventures, not only are you bathed in the immersive listening experience that places you at the heart of 14th century Europe, but also satisfies your quest for higher multidimensional consciousness within your modern life.  Get swept away in a profound journey that takes you deep into the dark ages while simultaneously exploring the light of one’s universal spirit – no matter when you exist."Surrender Not the Flame" is the first chronicle in the Muein Mystery School adventure series, set amid the backdrop of humanity's worst recorded pandemic.  Cinematic in presentation.  Bold in storytelling.  Captivating in consciousness. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240924-02 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2392260.rss

The Greatest Matter Audio Drama A Victorian Gothic Crime Audiodrama. On a cold winter’s evening in Dublin in the 1890s, Professor Cesare Lombroso, a renowned Italian criminologist, arrives in the city to give a talk. Meanwhile, a man has been gruesomely murdered in the nearby Phoenix Park, and the authorities appear to be covering it up. As the police begin inquiries, a powerful English military commander leads a sinister parallel investigation, and two writers become increasingly intent on solving the crime, no matter the cost. The murder, it seems, may have disturbing connections with the occult. Lombroso, with his expertise in crime, is reluctantly drawn into the investigation and soon realises there may be dangerous consequences for his career. In fact, this murder may have profound implications for the very nature of life and death. And the murderer may still be out there. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240924-03 RSS: https://feeds.megaphone.fm/the-greatest-matter

The 365 Days of Benjamin Raine Audio Drama The sole repository for the 365 audio recordings of Benjamin Raine. As the individual entrusted with these recordings, it is my solemn duty and privilege to distribute them publicly, ensuring that Benjamin's story is heard. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240108-07 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/f048ce84/podcast/rss

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I Have No Process Audio Book My name is Nicholas England. I tell stories.This is listener funded content. There are no ad breaks. No interruptions from corporate affiliates. And there never will be. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240910-05 RSS: https://media.rss.com/i-have-no-process/feed.xml

Darkest Matters: Interviews with Creatures of the Night Audio Drama Professor Mortimer Blackwood invites a variety of supernatural creatures to his studio for in-depth and candid conversations about their lives, experiences, and the myths and misconceptions that surround them. Join Us! on this eerie and captivating journey as Professor Blackwood sheds light on the mysteries of the night and the beings that inhabit it. Whether you're a horror enthusiast, a folklore fan, or simply intrigued by the unknown, Darkest Matters promises to entertain and engage with its unique blend of fiction, interviews, and horror lore. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240904-06 RSS: https://feeds.megaphone.fm/darkestmatters

Claqué au sol Audio Drama Studio Bloom est le premier studio de création de podcasts pour les auditeurs de 11 à 16 ans. Première série : Claqué au sol Saison 1 disponible dès le 9 septembre. Une série de fiction pour les ados de 11 à 14 ans sur le harcèlement scolaire. où la bande de copains "Les Inséparables" va être mise à mal à l'entrée au collège. de moqueries en petites blagues, la situation va vite devenir intenable pour Arthur, la cible. Est-ce que ses amis vont le soutenir ou bien au contraire participer voir même amplifier le phénomène. Vous le saurez en écoutant : Claqué au sol Saison 1Saison 2 en cours de préparation.... https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240909-04 RSS: https://feeds.audiomeans.fr/feed/508d1e66-94e2-4322-8f5d-b2bf5e025f0b.xml

Born to Die Audio RPG A light-hearted Blades in the Dark actual play podcast following the misadventures of a gang of scoundrels in the elvish fortress city of Glimmer Falls, fighting for their lives and fortunes against powerful gangs, guilds & industrial corporations. Low on dice and rules, high on improv and laughter. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240914-01 RSS: https://feeds.alitu.com/10836410

RPG Major Audio RPG A Musical Tabletop Mystery https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240903-02 RSS: https://www.rpgmajor.com/feed.xml

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Roleplay Rookies Audio RPG Four high school friends wake up in a mysterious land with no memory of how they got there. They soon discover they've gained extraordinary abilities. As they navigate this strange world, they must work together to find a way back home. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240920-02 RSS: https://media.rss.com/roleplay-rookies/feed.xml

The Paranormal Dinner Club Podcast Audio Book Get daily letters from a club formed on a mysterious island to take on the threat of a mad doctor. A work of fiction in process with help from readers. www.paranormaldinner.club https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240906-03 RSS: https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/2729232.rss

Serpentine Riddle Audio Book From sunken treasures to ancient curses, 'The Serpentine Riddle' unravels a tale of transformation and intrigue beneath the waves. Are you ready to uncover its secrets? https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240914-02 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/f8fa5034/podcast/rss

The Forgotten King Audio Book The world of Elderon is on the brink of collapse. Chaos spreads through the realm, fueled by whispers of shadow riders with a dark purpose and the resurgence of The Turned - an army of once-human souls twisted into something mindless and monstrous. As King Gael Arron battles to unite his fractured land, his every move is shadowed by old rivalries and unseen enemies. Growing unrest and unspeakable betrayals begin to tear his family apart, putting a heavy burden on his teenage sons, Quintus and Produs. But it is his daughter Kyla - a bold but impulsive princess - that may have the power to change the course of history. Far from the throne, in the quiet corners of the realm, a simple farm boy stumbles upon a long-buried secret about LifeSpark, an ancient magic force that could either save Elderon… or destroy it. The fate of The Second Age of Elderon hangs in the balance as old alliances crack, new heroes rise, and dark forces creep into the light. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240926-01 RSS: https://feeds.captivate.fm/tfkseries/

SCAM HUNTERS Audio Drama A disgraced CISO (Greg Kinnear) gets a call from a Miami journalist (Erin Moriarty) who needs help investigating a series of scams targeting terminally ill patients. He begrudgingly accepts… But in a world of swindling and deceit, where nothing is what it seems – their findings are just the tip of the iceberg. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240925-01 RSS: https://feeds.simplecast.com/1ctcsdmD

Nightmares Unleashed Audio Drama Are you ready to unleash your nightmares? Nightmares Unleashed is a horror anthology podcast produced by Ted Heaver and Delaney Sutton. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240919-07 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/fb3a3af8/podcast/rss

Anything Goes! A Live Audio Drama Audio Drama The magic of audio drama meets the thrill of live theater! Anything Goes! A Live Audio Drama is an hour long stage show at Fallout Theater in Austin, TX. This project is funded in part of the economic development department of the City of Austin economic council. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240917-06 RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/Anythinggoe/feed.xml

Night Walks Audio Book Welcome to Coyote Peaks, where every shadow hides a story. Guided by a mysterious night-walker who knows the town’s darkest secrets, each episode plunges you into spine-tingling tales that blur the line between reality and the supernatural. From ghostly whispers to strange happenings, Night Walks will keep you hooked as you venture further down the road, where the unknown awaits. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240917-07 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2388383.rss

The Wizard Wheezes Audio Book A podcast for Fan Fiction Audiobooks, read by yours truly! All recordings are created and distributed with the authors knowledge, and links to the original works will always be available in the description. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240916-04 RSS: https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/the-wizards-wheezes

Shadow Bound Audio RPG An explicit narrative podcast told through the Fantasy Unhinged TTRPG system. Where my Lightbearers take on their fates, my shadows, and uncover the truths of the dark book. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240916-05 RSS: https://feeds.simplecast.com/gElsJmvO

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Unimaginable Stories Audio Book Short stories with a twist, includes fantasy, horror, and mystery. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240916-06 RSS: https://media.rss.com/threeknuckleheads/feed.xml

Rise of the Runelords D&D style Audio RPG The rise of the runelords adventure path in the dungeons and dragons style most of the players are new. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240916-07 RSS: https://www.spreaker.com/show/6293327/episodes/feed

The Fifth Power Audio Drama In the futuristic world of NewCity, everyone has super-abilities that fall into one of four power clans. When three 12-year-olds — Max, Ever and Charli — don’t fit into any single clan, adults they trust conspire to lock them away to prevent them from threatening the delicate peace among the clans. The three friends must work together to solve the mystery of their megapowers — and prove their differences are society’s best chance at survival. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240914-03 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/f6b08eb0/podcast/rss

Audio Dramas by James Hand Audio Drama Hello and welcome to Audio Dramas by James Hand. This page will have all audio dramas created by James Hand for free listening. Enjoy! https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240914-04 RSS: https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/audio-dramas-by-james-hand

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The Silent Directive Audio Drama Comprised of recovered tapes found around the world. Strung together, they spin an interesting tale... https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240922-03 RSS: https://media.rss.com/the-silent-directive/feed.xml

The Caliginous Chronicles Audio Book The Caliginous Chronicles is a monthly podcast that brings you original horror short stories. Let the story chill, the narration thrill, and audio production fill you with dread. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240908-05 RSS: https://feeds.libsyn.com/546277/rss

Pages on the Tongue Audio Book Venom in the Cloud Forest is a short speculative fiction story written and read by Katherine Quevedo. Deep in the cloud forest of Ecuador Acoti has been poisoned. His friend Pamba takes him to the curer to heal him. Acoti can't help but wonder if there is another poison infecting his beloved cloud forest. With the help of his friend Pamba, he sets out to uncover a mystery and save his people. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240908-06 RSS: https://feeds.libsyn.com/545242/rss

Voices from the Aether Audio Book Voices from the Aether is a pirate radio broadcast revealing information about anomalies in our midst, and exposing organizations like the SCP Foundation. This program is brought to you by the Society of Virtuous Pagans. Since 1691, we have worked to study the anomalous entities, artifacts, locations, and events that may be found within our reality. Have Faith. We Know. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240906-04 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2393831.rss

Danny Trooper in the Forgotten Realms Audio Drama DAN TROOPER is just your normal 25-year-old trying to live a normal life. He's got a promising job, a beautiful fiance', and overall a pretty comfortable existence. (If he can just remember to call his mother on occasion.) However, all that is about to be fractured as Dan is unexpectedly confronted by the adventures he had in childhood, adventures he can't seem to remember for some reason. But he needs to, or all of reality itself may be at stake. The adventure continues in DANNY TROOPER IN THE FORGOTTEN REALMS! https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240906-05 RSS: https://feeds.podcastle.ai/e5f83d30-5d6e-49e9-bd0c-35e251558ae8.rss

Hymns for the Road || Hodgepodge Audio Audio Drama Four survivors of a magical apocalypse embark on a road trip through the fantasy wasteland that once was America. Filled with mischievous and often malicious otherworldly creatures, strange and esoteric survival rules, and impossible, dreamlike landscapes, the world has become both indescribably beautiful, and ruthlessly, indiscriminately deadly. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240906-06 RSS: https://feeds.redcircle.com/a1dd0dbd-34de-4c08-bfe3-ae0b2dcdd0db

Midnight Calls Audio Book An aspiring author aiming to terrify or scare anyone who dares to listen to the stories that I've written. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240905-05 RSS: https://feeds.podcastle.ai/29e6010b-1695-436e-9dfd-a9aa9b6ded95.rss

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The Invocation Audio Book A world famous composer is introduced to a melodic fragment with the power to alter reality. He composes an orchestral Invocation, which, if successful, will induce Lucifer to appear before a packed new-year's-eve gala audience. What arises is something no one could have predicted: complete and utter . . . transformation. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240904-07 RSS: https://media.rss.com/the-invocation/feed.xml

Tales From the Singing Porch Audio Book Tales From the Singing Porch is an original folktale anthology podcast. Let yourself be whisked away to worlds full of adventure and joy in these bite-sized stories full of heart. The Singing Porch will make sure you always safely return home. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240916-08 RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/talesfromthesingingporch/feed.xml

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ADHD&D Audio RPG Broadcasted live every Thursday from 8-10 on Landmark College radio station WLMC. How do you keep a show on track when everyone has ADHD? You don't, and you watch the places it ends up. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240901-05 RSS: https://media.rss.com/adhd-d/feed.xml

Etheralife Productions Audio Book Etheralife Productions provides new and original speculative fiction full cast audio dramas, narrated audiobooks, and more. Our genres are a sci-fi, psychological thriller, philosophical fiction, horror, and more. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240831-04 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/fa8f7dfc/podcast/rss

The Loved One Audio Drama How far would you go to find the person who means the most to you in all the world? 'All roads gave led Pink, a private investigator from LA, to Glasgow. Now she's here, insomnia threatens to distort every clue. As reality and fiction blur, can Pink hold on to her sanity long enough to find her missing daughter and bring her home? https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240902-04 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2389257.rss

Masami Ko Japanese Bounty Huntress Audio Book Masami Ko is a Japanese bounty hunter in the Old West. Circumstances in Japan have forced her to leave and come to America. She leaves behind her family and enters the land of opportunity only to discover that she’s not welcome. Using her only skills, she embarks on a dangerous journey to bring outlaws to justice. The job is not that simple. Along the way, she finds friends in the most unusual places, even a friendship that portends love. Follow along as Masami etches out of the vastness of the West, a place where she becomes self-reliant. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20240912-03 RSS: https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/masami-ko-japanese-bounty-huntress

[staringdownabarrel]

hey, where do I start with star trek?

It really depends on whether you want to watch all of it or if you're mostly hoping to do a bare bones viewing of the older shows before you see the shows currently in production. There's a lot of viewing guides out there if you want to do a completionist viewing, so I'm going to answer this with the assumption you want to do the latter.

Before I begin, I'm not really sure if there's such a thing as a non-contentious version of this list, so keep in mind there's going to be different people with different opinions and some are going to take some pretty big issues with this one.

The Original Series: The Cage, Where No Man Has Gone Before, Mudd's Women, Balance of Terror, Arena, The Menagerie Pts. I and II, Errand of Mercy, Amok Time, Mirror Mirror, I Mudd, The Trouble With Tribbles, Journey to Babel, The Enterprise Incident, Spock's Brain

The Animated Series: Honestly, I'm probably going to get some flack for this one, but you can safely skip it entirely

The Next Generation (the best series): Encounter At Farpoint, The Battle, Hide and Q, Datalore, Skin of Evil, Conspiracy, The Neutral Zone, Elementary Dear Data, The Measure of a Man (I have issues with this episode but it is very popular regardless), Q Who, The Emissary, Peak Performance, Who Watches the Watchers, Yesterday's Enterprise, The Offspring, Sins of the Father, Tin Man, Transfigurations, The Best of Both Worlds Pts. I and II, Family, Brothers, Reunion, The Drumhead, The Mind's Eye, Redemption Pts. I and II, Ensign Ro, Reunification Pts. I and II, I Borg, Chain of Command Pts. I and II, Tapestry, Birthright Pts. I and II, Rightful Heir, Descent Pts. I and II, The Pegasus, All Good Things

Deep Space Nine: Honestly, just watch the entire thing. A lot of the episodes, even the earlier ones, end up tying into ongoing arcs in this show. If you want just one episode to sell you on it, go see Duet or the Past Tense two parter.

Voyager: Caretaker, Jetrel, Threshold (c'mon, it's one of the holidays), Death Wish, Tuvix (notoriously one of the most contentious episodes of any Star Trek show ever made), The Q and the Grey, Worst Case Scenario, Scorpion Pts. I and II, The Gift, Year of Hell Pts I and II, Message In A Bottle, The Killing Game Pts. I and II, Living Witness, Drone, Equinox Pts. I and II, Q2, Author Author (aka what TNG's The Measure of a Man could have been like if it was good), Endgame.

Enterprise: Broken Bow, The Andorian Incident, Shadows of P'Jem, Shockwave Pts. I and II, Carbon Creek, Minefield, Cease Fire, The Expanse, all of season three because it's a season long arc and honestly one of the better seasons, Storm Front Pts. I and II, Borderland, Cold Station 12, The Augments, Babel One, United, The Aenar, Affliction, Divergence, In A Mirror Darkly Pts. I and II, Demons, Terra Prime, These Are the Voyages (also a contentious episode)

[fogaminghub]

🌟 Just dropped: Sea of Stars Dawn of Equinox is live! 🎉 Experience thrilling three-player co-op, revamped combat with Sticky Combo Points, and uncovering the new Mystery Locks! Whether sharing the adventure with friends or enjoying it solo, there's a ton of new content to explore! Check out our full blog post for all the exciting details! 

[leafkingofbirds]

Little preview of Boundless Chapter 3.

~~~~~~

“The Midnight Market is not easily found. Give me a single reason why I should trust you.”

Opal holds out the shimmering ticket for Kieran’s approval. 

He scans it quickly. “Assuming this isn’t counterfeit, this grants you entry as a merchant. It says nothing about bringing guests.”

“Guests? No, no. Employees,” Opal corrects with a grin. “Carry some wares with you and I won’t even have to find my way around a lie. And I’ll ignore that impugnation of my honor. If I were you, I wouldn’t trust me either. However…” Opal takes the ticket back and tucks it away. “Ask yourself what I, courtless and with but a scrap of magic at my disposal, would gain by luring the Ruler of All Fae and his all-powerful, un-killable consort into a trap.”

“You could stand to gain quite a lot,” Ella says coldly. “If you were clever enough.”

“Then put me under a geas,” Opal says, throwing up her hands, finally growing tired of the game. “If I betray you, strike me down. But I swear on my rightfully-dead cousin: I have no hidden motives.”

“She’s mad,” Jack scoffs. “We can wait and find the Cham-seller somewhere else, at a market far more accessible and less dangerous.”

Opal taps her chin. “Hmm, yes, you could…But who knows how long that may take?” She clicks her tongue like a clock. “Are you willing to wait for a chance at maybe catching her at some festival six months from now? Ten years from now? You have my guarantee that she is always at the Midnight Market on the Autumn Equinox. It’s the biggest day of the year for the dark underbelly of the Fae world.” She stares at him. “Well?”

Kieran doesn't know how Opal knows he doesn't have much time to waste. Almost certainly, she knows more than she's saying - but perhaps his desperation is simply written all over his face.

Everyone’s eyes are on him. He must decide quickly if she’s worth trusting, or if there is some secret plan that will destroy him lurking behind those blue-green eyes. 

Kieran sets his jaw and steps toward Opal. She is like a muted version of her cousin. With less magic to glamour herself with, some small imperfections become apparent up close. A slight twist of her nose. Some frizzled hair out of place. Marks of the sun on her forehead, eyes set slightly too wide. The imperfections make her almost look human, and somehow, more trustworthy. If she cannot even glamour herself properly, she couldn't possibly be a threat.

Kieran taps into the deep, cold well of the Moon Source, now freely and entirely his to command. The candles flicker in an icy breeze that comes from nowhere in the small, windowless room, and silver magic twinkles like ice crystals between them. “I bind you with the power of the Moon Source,” Kieran intones coldly. “Should any harm befall me or my companions in the course of this quest, the same harm shall befall you.”

Opal blinks rapidly in the swirl of magic that coalesces into a shimmering storm, flying around her torso and limbs like a swarm of insects before sinking into her skin and exploding in a cascade of sparks. The candle flames come back to full strength and the warmth of the room slowly returns to normal.

Opal takes a only a moment to look stunned, examining the front and back of one hand, as if she could see the magic that was now inlaid within her body. “Well!” She claps her hands with an almost childlike glee. “That should do it, then. I assume you have a room to spare where I can freshen up before the journey? No worries, I’ll find it myself. I’m well used to finding my own way.”

With a laugh, she brushes past Kieran and Ella. She throws a look back at Jack, Kieran, Ella, and Oleander, who are frozen with matching confounded expressions. “Better hurry!” She taps her bare wrist. “Only a few hours until midnight. Must get there before the door closes again for another year!”

“Wait - we must be there at midnight? Exactly?” Ella asks. “How can we possibly make it in time?”

“It’s not so far a journey when you know the way,” Opal says.

“Are we truly doing this?” Oleander asks. 

“I’m going,” Kieran says. “I won’t ask anyone in this room to accompany me, but I must do this.”

Oleander pinches the bridge of their nose and sighs. “You say that while knowing none of us will let you do this alone.”

“No weapons allowed. And make sure you leave those silly crowns at home,” Opal advises as she leaves. “You won’t need them where we’re going!”

[the-hermit-at-midnight]

The Sabbats and the Wheel of the Year: Celebrating Nature's Rhythms

The Wheel of the Year is a sacred calendar observed by many modern Pagans and Wiccans, which revolves around the changing seasons and the cycles of nature. At the heart of this wheel are the Sabbats, the eight festivals that mark key points in the annual cycle. In this blog, we will delve into the significance of the Sabbats and how they contribute to a deeper connection with nature and the divine.

1. The Wheel of the Year

The Wheel of the Year is a symbolic representation of the Earth's journey around the sun, divided into eight major festivals, equally spaced throughout the year. These festivals are known as Sabbats and are celebrated to honor the changing seasons, the cycles of life, and the elements of nature. The Wheel is divided into two halves: the Light Half and the Dark Half, with four Sabbats in each.

2. The Quarter Days

The Wheel begins with the Quarter Days, which are the solstices and equinoxes:

- **Yule (Winter Solstice)**: Yule, celebrated around December 21st, marks the longest night of the year. It's a time of rebirth and renewal as the days begin to grow longer.

- **Ostara (Spring Equinox)**: Ostara, around March 21st, welcomes the return of spring when day and night are in perfect balance. It's a time for planting seeds and new beginnings.

- **Litha (Summer Solstice)**: Litha, around June 21st, marks the height of summer and the longest day of the year. It's a time of joy and celebration of the sun's power.

- **Mabon (Autumn Equinox)**: Mabon, around September 21st, celebrates the harvest season. It's a time of gratitude and reflection on the fruits of one's labor.

3. The Cross-Quarter Days

The Cross-Quarter Days fall between the Quarter Days:

- **Imbolc**: Celebrated around February 2nd, Imbolc signifies the first signs of spring's return. It's a time to honor the goddess Brigid and the hearth.

- **Beltane**: Around May 1st, Beltane is a fire festival celebrating fertility and the union of the god and goddess. It's a time for maypole dancing and bonfires.

- **Lughnasadh**: Occurring around August 1st, Lughnasadh is the first harvest festival, honoring the Celtic god Lugh. It's a time for games, feasting, and gratitude for the harvest.

- **Samhain**: Celebrated around October 31st, Samhain is the final festival of the year, marking the end of the harvest season. It's also considered the Celtic New Year and a time to honor the ancestors.

4. The Spiritual Significance

The Sabbats are not only a way to celebrate the changing seasons but also to connect with the spiritual aspects of life and death, growth and decay. They remind us of the cyclical nature of existence, encouraging us to live in harmony with the world around us.

The Sabbats and the Wheel of the Year provide a framework for those who follow nature-based spiritual paths to honor the Earth's cycles, connect with the divine, and find meaning in the ebb and flow of life. By celebrating these festivals, individuals can deepen their connection to nature and gain a greater understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things. Whether you're a practicing Pagan or simply curious about these traditions, the Wheel of the Year and its Sabbats offer a beautiful way to celebrate and embrace the ever-changing world around us.

[hellsite-yano]

As usual: The List of Completed Games 2023

Arrival (DOOM) Sunder (DOOM) Mibibli's Quest Action Doom (DOOM) Action Doom 2: Urban Brawl (DOOM) Assault on Tei Tenga (DOOM) Maptroid: Worlds Demons of Problematique (DOOM) Demons of Problematique 2 (DOOM) Newgothic Movement (DOOM) Newgothic Movement 2 (DOOM) Legacy of Heroes (DOOM) TNT Revilution (DOOM) /pol/ (DOOM) Equinox (DOOM) Thunderpeak (DOOM) Pizza Tower Automaton Lung SMBNext: Sunset Shores Heart of the Killer Elderand Kama Sutra (DOOM) Brotherhood of Ruin (DOOM) Brotherhood of Ruin: The Lost Temple (DOOM) Metroid Fusion: Special Edition No End in Sight (DOOM) Counterattack (DOOM) Consolation Prize (DOOM) Golden Souls 2 (DOOM) Super Metroid Redesign: Axeil Edition REKKR The Legend of Dark Witch Episode 2 Castlevania: Simon's Destiny (DOOM) The Legend of Dark Witch 3 Micro Slaughter Community Project (DOOM) Cave Story 3D Plutonia Revisited Community Project (DOOM) 200 Minutes of /vr/ (DOOM) Hell Ground (DOOM) Mutiny (DOOM) Diabolus Ex (DOOM) Rusted Moss Dread Templar The Machine (Knytt Stories) Ashes 2063 Enriched (DOOM) Carnage Oasis (DOOM) Ashes Afterglow (DOOM) MAYhem 2048 (DOOM) Doom 2 Redux (DOOM) Bungle in the Jungle (DOOM) Anomaly Report (DOOM) MyHouse (DOOM) Dementium Remastered HROT BACULUS (DOOM) Doom 2 Reloaded (DOOM) Vracks Botanicals (DOOM) Resurgence (DOOM) Invasion UAC (DOOM) SuperDoom (DOOM) 2048 Units of /vr/ (DOOM) Cydonia (DOOM) Happy (DOOM) Tetris Effect: Connected Moonblood (DOOM) Liminal Doom (DOOM) Tetanus (DOOM) Plutonia Revisited Community Project 2 (DOOM) Shadow of the Wool Ball (DOOM) Monuments of Guilt BABBDI NaissanceE Post Void I wish it was morning all the time HOLEHOLE MAZEMAZE Kowloon's Curse: Lost Report South Scrimshaw Part One Outcore: Desktop Adventure Nyaruru Fishy Fight Viewfinder Sludge Life 2 Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun Slayers X: Terminal Aftermath: Vengance of the Slayer Herald of Havoc Pseudoregalia Deadlink Lone Fungus Fox Flares Turbo Overkill Blasphemous 2 AMID EVIL - The Black Labyrinth Bomb Rush Cyberfunk Inscryption Neyasnoe Northern Journey Wonderputt Forever Super Junkoid (Super Metroid) Manifold Garden Contra 4 Metal Slug 7 Space Invaders Extreme Space Invaders Extreme 2 Outer Wilds Ion Fury: Aftershock Submachine 1: the Basement Submachine 2: the Lighthouse Submachine 3: the Loop Quake II - Enhanced Edition Escape Escape PRIPRI MELLOWOLLEM Submachine 4: the Lab Submachine 5: the Root Submachine 6: the Edge Submachine 7: the Core Venturous (DOOM) Devotion Good Morning Phobos (DOOM) Winter's Fury (DOOM) OBZEN (DOOM) Rush (DOOM) HAPPY WORLD SJ-19 Learns To Love! Graze Counter GM Hypnagogia 無限の夢 Boundless Dreams Beeny The Sun Will Rise Again

[forthedancingandthethriving]

Equinox's Journey

The game that Root ended up falling into in the Small Town Hero AU. It's the developers copy, and she was hastily added in the newest patch for all servers.

It would follow the story as Hilde(F)/Xavier(M)/Arun(NB) as they traverse the lands in the hope of ending the fued between Kaiah and Mar. Root came in the newest update after the protagonist was expelled from the Espi Empire after trying to reveal its corruption.

It's a game similar in style to Genshin Impact, but.. better.

Hilde/Xavier/Arun

The protagonist of Equinox's Journey. The protagonist is choosable and customizable, but the creator's version (the one Root fell into) is coded to have all three. Their standard looks are brown hair, blue eyes, and a standard mage's outfit.

Hilde is the female protagonist.

Xavier is the male protagonist.

Arun is the gender neutral protagonist.

The protagonist was originally the Celestial Mage of the Espi Empire, keeping it safe from Kaiah and Mar. However, after stumbling upon the emperor plotting with cultists to allow monsters to invade, the protagonist rebelled. They were banished following this, though the people who believe them (other playable characters) come with.

In the new update, called 'The Dragon that Faces the Earth and Sea', follows the protagonist as they head to Shorefront to meet the 'Dragon' that can go against the minions of Kaiah and Mar without being hurt.

Ardi

Ozymandias's opposite in this world. He's a giant snake made of rocks, known for causing earthquakes and splitting the ear from his mere presence. He's Kaiah's favorite creation, and often clashes against Ersa.

Ersa

Leto's opposite in this world. She's a giant sea shake made of water and seaweed, known for causing typhoons and giant whirlpools with a flick of her tail. She's Mar's favorite creation and often clashes against Ardi.

The Dragon that Faces the Earth and Sea

The update follows the protagonist as they make their way to Shorefront and get to witness the 'Dragon of Shorefront' in action. It's a beautiful dragon that oddly has no wings. It's scales are a pristine white. Soft white horns twister and curled, almost like the branches of a grand tree, and around the smaller branches were pure white vines. The creature's claws were long and sharp, yet scuffed and dull.

Once the monster is defeated, the protagonist introduces themselves the dragon, who transforms and reveals herself to be called Root Mallory. She's very reluctant to help out the protagonist, and a lot of it is trying to convince her. During this, Root's inability to remember her past comes to light, and the protagonist (and fandom) believe her to be a Beyonder, someone who came from another world.

However, she and the protagonist eventually uncover a plot from a noble, and it gives Root the amount of trust she needs to agree to leave Shorefront and come.

The protagonist places a spell so that Shorefront is protected from the monsters, and the party sets off. But not before being met by a Wandering Arcanist and a Wandering Merchant, both in cloaks. The Wandering Arcanist warns the protagonist that they may have more things to worry about in the future. More pressing than the Espi Empire and Kaiah and Mar.

After that, they vanish. There are some people who comment that Root looks pretty seemingly similar to SMG4!Root, but their concerns are drowned out. After all, the update is great!

(But the developers don't even know who the hell the Wandering Arcanist and the Wandering Merchant are meant to be.. they don't even have models about them..! Oh, well. At least people like the update.

[kahran042]

Some cool Star Trek episode titles

Original series:

The Enemy Within

Dagger of the Mind

Balance of Terror

The Return of the Archons

This Side of Paradise

City on the Edge of Forever

Catspaw

Metamorphosis

Journey to Babel

The Deadly Years

Wolf in the Fold

Return to Tomorrow

Patterns of Force

The Omega Glory

The Paradise Syndrome

And the Children Shall Lead

Spectre of the Gun

For the World is Hollow, And I Have Touched the Sky

Whom Gods Destroy

The Mark of Gideon

That Which Survives

The Lights of Zetar

Requiem for Methuselah

The Way to Eden

The Cloud Minders

The Next Generation:

Angel One

Coming of Age

Heart of Glory

The Arsenal of Freedom

Symbiosis

Where Silence Has Lease

Shades of Gray

Evolution

Who Watches the Watchers?

Transfigurations

Remember Me

Future Imperfect

The Mind’s Eye

Silicon Avatar

Unification

Time’s Arrow

Aquiel

Timescape

Phantasms

Sub Rosa

Emergence

Deep Space Nine (a pretty cool subtitle, itself!):

Apocalypse Rising

In Purgatory's Shadow

Sacrifice of Angels

Wrongs Darker than Death or Night

In the Pale Moonlight

Chrysalis

Voyager:

Parallax

Phage

State of Flux

Persistence of Vision

Lifesigns

Deadlock

Future's End

Macrocosm

Blood Fever

The Killing Game

The Omega Directive

Latent Image

Course:Oblivion

Equinox

Unimatrix Zero

[4toldbygyromancy]

The Walk of Shame

940 words, canon(vincent) x oc, sh3, humor, rated... I mean it's not bad but there's a few innuendos and the fact that it's, you know, about the walk of shame.

(For the best experience, please read this in your best David Attenborough impression.)

The Walk of Shame.

A college tradition of early-morning journeys across campus, from dorm to apartment to wherever. Sometimes carrying shoes, other times trying to hide in a sweatshirt pilfered from a beau. 

However, not all Walks of Shame happen in college dormitories. Take, for instance, this particular event occurring shortly before dawn. Now, many walks of shame take place a bit later in the morning, but in this instance discretion is truly the name of the game.

You see, this observed Walk of Shame is taking place inside of a church.

Now, this particular church does have some lodgers. Some stay just for the weekends, sequestering themselves in prayer, while others call it their only home- ah! There she is, right there. If you look closely, you’ll see one of the doors opening, and our churchmouse makes her appearance. To her credit, she looks a great deal more put-together than many of the college Walkers. Indeed, one could almost be fooled into thinking that she simply stayed up too late studying, perhaps if she weren’t exiting from a priest’s bedroom. With her cowboy boots in one hand and her steps muffled by socks, she looks almost confident in her ability to make it to her room at the end of the hall without being seen. 

Ah, no, one of the floorboards beneath her creaks and she practically doubles over in a cringe. If someone were to see her now, there would be no doubt that she had been performing rather unholy rites over the course of the night. She doesn’t seem to have the skill of subtlety that many of these church members have, and it’s a survival tactic she will have to pick up sooner rather than later. This situation could be seen as good practice for her, a situation with rather low stakes.

Or, that’s how it might have been, had she not been thrown to the wolves. Or “Wolf”, as it were. 

Claudia Wolf, the natural predator of this churchmouse, just so happens to step into the hallway, perhaps on her way to show her devotion to the rising sun. She’s near the far end of the hall, though, so perhaps luck will shine upon our– oh, look, Claudia has caught our churchmouse in her stare, powerful enough to freeze any lesser being. 

Yes, our churchmouse has frozen as expected. Without the protection of her beau, she is completely vulnerable to the priestess’ wrath. 

“Bethany,” she calls the churchmouse by name. “I’m surprised to see you up and about so early. Have you perhaps risen to begin preparations for the equinox next week?” 

The churchmouse seems stunned. Claudia Wolf used a lot of big words so early in the morning, and they appear to have thrown our hero for a loop. She finds herself unable to tell a lie in the face of her adversary, instead croaking out a horse: “No.” 

“I see,” Claudia continues. “Are you then perhaps looking for something?” 

The priestess doesn’t know how close she hit to home, for even now the churchmouse’s eyes are darting about, looking for an exit.

“Yes!” the churchmouse blurts out, giving an eager nod. “Yes, Sister Claudia, I am looking for something.” 

“If I can offer any assistance, you have but to ask,” says Claudia.

Excellent! She has cemented a purpose in her being out in the hallway so early. But she will have to come up with a reason. Will she be able to do it? 

“Ah…” 

Perhaps not.

“No, no,” she follows up weakly. “No, thank you, Sister Claudia. I’m fine.” 

The ridges where the priestess’ eyebrows should be shift a touch. Just enough of a touch to alert our churchmouse of impending danger.

But the door behind her opens, and she is steadied by a hand on her shoulder. 

“You forgot this, Bethany.” 

And it’s our churchmouse’s beau to the rescue! He’s handing her a book she must have left in his room during their time of… ahem. Study. 

“Thank you, Father Vincent,” says our churchmouse. It’s clear from the way that she’s looking at him that she is completely enamored with this priest. If you were to peer into her eyes, you could note how they shine with all the radiance of Cupid’s affliction. 

“Vincent?” Claudia’s expression seems rather surprised. “I wasn’t aware you were the one hosting morning prayer.” 

“I wasn’t planning on it,” says Vincent, giving a shrug that looks almost bored. “It was just hard to go back to sleep… I’m sure you know how thin these walls are.”

The churchmouse squeaks out a barely-audible apology, and Claudia shakes her head. 

“Do what you will, Vincent.” 

“I will,” he replies. “And you’d better hurry, or you’ll miss that sunrise of yours.” 

The two clergy members shoot a few more barbs at one another, but our churchmouse has already let her posture relax. She has survived this encounter with Claudia Wolf! Though her survival likely came from her predator’s inexperience with debauchery, our churchmouse doesn’t know that and she is mentally celebrating her victory.

A gentle push from Vincent’s fingertips signal to our churchmouse that it’s time to make her escape. She gives the both of them a nod, though by this point Claudia is thoroughly rattled by her rival and is paying her no mind. 

Our little churchmouse’s victory is sealed and sweet. As she quickly makes her way to the safety of her lodgings, she affords herself a glance over her shoulder. 

Vincent doesn’t even have to shift his eye to give her a wink. 

[miniaturemoonheart]

𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝘂𝗴𝗵𝗻𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗱𝗵:

Lughnasadh, also known as Lúnasa, Lùnastal, Luanistyn or Lammas, is a Gaelic festival of the first harvest, which also corresponds with other European early harvest festivals. It is held on the 1st of August, halfway between the Summer Solstice (Litha) and the Autumn Equinox (Mabon).

The festival is named after the Celtic god Lugh, and part of the festival is often offering some of the first harvest’s bounty in gratitude, and feasting or athletic competitions. Historically, journeys to sacred wells or holy shrines, or climbing mountains or hills have been popular, and in some places are still observed. Lugh is often seen as a personification of the first harvest, or the corn itself, and he is sometimes recast as folkloric figures such as John Barleycorn.

𝗟𝘂𝗴𝗵𝗻𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗱𝗵 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗿𝘀: gold, orange, yellow, green, light brown

𝗟𝘂𝗴𝗵𝗻𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗱𝗵 𝗰𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘀: amber, citrine, aventurine, peridot

𝗟𝘂𝗴𝗵𝗻𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗱𝗵 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘀: Bread, corn, soup, root vegetables, berries, mead, rice, barely, nuts, seasonal fruits, roasted meats, honey, beer

𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗟𝘂𝗴𝗵𝗻𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗱𝗵 𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀:

★ 𝗕𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱! Baking bread is one of the most traditional ways of celebrating this festival, and the first of the grains have been harvested. Consider baking different types of loaves, experiment with plaiting the dough or drawing designs on the top. Add seasonal berries, nuts or seeds to the dough to add flavour and interest

★ 𝗣𝗶𝗰𝗻𝗶𝗰 -Have a picnic with friends and family – with lots of bread!

★ 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗻𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲! Go on a walk up a mountain or hill, or visit a sacred place such as a shrine, holy well, stone circle or burial mound (or just somewhere sacred to you if none of those are available)

★ 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗮𝗺𝗲𝘀 - Play games with friends or family, have a sports contest such as a running race or a tug of war.

★ 𝗕𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 - Make a donation of food to your local food bank or donate money to a charity

Hold your own Lughnasadh ritual, light a fire and offer some food to the god Lugh and thank him for your harvest, and feel gratitude in knowing that all your efforts are coming to fruition

★ 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗻 𝗱𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀 - instructions for lots of interesting designs can be found online, or make sculptures and decorations out of salt dough

Light a candle and make a list of all that you are thankful for, and meditate upon this

★ 𝗚𝗼 𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗽 - look for early apples, plums, berries and edible fungi (ensure you are certain of what you are harvesting before you eat it!)

A blessed Lughnasadh to all, however you chose to celebrate it, and may your August be fruitful, prosperous and full of joy 🙂

[revivalfitnessri]

Looking for the Best and Luxury Gym in Cranston, Providence Area?

Are you searching for a gym that goes beyond the ordinary? A place where fitness meets luxury, and every detail is designed to elevate your workout experience? Look no further! The Cranston and Providence area is home to several top-notch gyms, but finding the best and most luxurious gym can be a game-changer for your fitness journey.

In this blog, we’ll explore the key features of a luxury gym, why it’s worth the investment, and how to choose the right one for your needs in the Cranston area.

What Sets a Luxury Gym Apart?

Luxury gyms redefine the traditional fitness experience. Here are some features you can expect:

State-of-the-Art Equipment Cutting-edge machines, free weights, and cardio equipment are standard in luxury gyms. These facilities often feature the latest technology, such as virtual fitness tracking and AI-powered workout systems.

Premium Amenities From spa-like locker rooms to towel service, luxury gyms prioritize comfort. You might find steam rooms, saunas, and even massage services to help you relax post-workout.

Personalized Services Luxury gyms typically offer personal training, customized workout plans, and nutrition counseling. This ensures you get expert guidance tailored to your fitness goals.

Group Classes and Specialized Training Whether it’s yoga, Pilates, HIIT, or spin classes, luxury gyms provide a variety of high-quality group sessions. Many even host niche classes, like aerial yoga or martial arts.

Aesthetic Design Luxury gyms invest in creating an inspiring environment with stylish interiors, great lighting, and ergonomic layouts that enhance your workout experience.

Community and Networking Opportunities These gyms often attract like-minded individuals, offering a chance to network while working on your health.

Why Invest in a Luxury Gym?

While luxury gyms may come with a higher price tag, the benefits can far outweigh the costs. Here’s why:

Enhanced Motivation: A premium environment can inspire you to stay consistent with your workouts.

Access to Experts: Personalized coaching helps you avoid injury and achieve results faster.

Well-Being Beyond Fitness: Additional amenities, like spas and wellness programs, promote holistic health.

Value for Money: Combining gym, spa, and nutrition services in one place often provides better value than paying for them separately.

Top Tips for Choosing the Right Gym in Cranston and Providence

If you’re in the Cranston or Providence area, here’s how to find the best luxury gym for your needs:

Visit Multiple Locations Schedule a tour of several gyms to compare facilities, equipment, and ambiance.

Evaluate Membership Options Look for gyms that offer flexible membership plans or trial periods to test the waters.

Check Reviews and Ratings Online reviews can provide insights into customer satisfaction and the gym’s reputation.

Assess Proximity and Accessibility Choose a location close to your home or workplace to make frequent visits easier.

Talk to the Staff Friendly and knowledgeable staff can make a big difference in your experience.

The Best Luxury Gyms in Cranston and Providence

Here are a few top-rated luxury gyms in the Cranston and Providence area:

Revival Fitness Known for its personalized training programs and modern facilities, Revival Fitness offers a premium experience tailored to your goals.

Equinox A nationwide brand renowned for its luxury, Equinox provides unparalleled amenities and a wide range of classes.

Lifetime Fitness This gym chain delivers a holistic approach to health, combining state-of-the-art fitness facilities with spa services and healthy dining options.

Local Boutique Gyms Cranston also boasts several boutique gyms that cater to niche markets, offering exclusivity and personalized attention.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right gym is a crucial step in your fitness journey. By investing in a luxury gym, you’re not just paying for a workout but also for an enhanced lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build muscle, or simply improve your well-being, the Cranston and Providence area offers options that combine sophistication with functionality.

So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring today and step into a world of luxury fitness that motivates, inspires, and transforms!

Ready to take the first step? Book a tour at one of Cranston’s best gyms and make your fitness dreams a reality!