#glass panel deck surround

[youngromancemusic]

Roof Extensions - Beach Style Deck An image of a backyard deck in the middle of the beach style that has an addition to its roof

[cloudwisp]

Husband Wriothesley, who teases you for being a lightweight when you’ve only had one glass of wine during date night as he makes the journey back home with you on his back. You’re an adorable giggling mess, unable to contain your love and affection you reach around to smooch his cheek and playfully bite his shoulder because that’s what he does to you—words alone can’t express just how much you adore this man and you have to channel it through other means. He warns you that if you keep giving him bite marks he might just drop you and loosens his grip to make it seem so. He chuckles at the sound of you squealing as your arms and legs tighten around him and he readjusts his hold on you so you’re secured once more. He wonders how such a sweet thing like you can cause so much trouble. Not that he’s complaining, he actually finds it quite endearing.

Husband Wriothesley, who kneels down to help you slip on your heels after you’re dressed in a gown to attend the evening shows at the opera epiclese. You’re holding onto his shoulder for support while he moves with ease to slide your foot into your beautiful new pair of heels—his fingers gently wrapped around your ankle and thumb rubbing soft circles against the bone for a moment before he works on the other one. If only he could trail kisses up along your leg and inner thigh, but he supposes that will have to wait until later tonight unless he wants to get an earful from you about not wanting to be late. All your husband asks for in return is sweet kisses from you, when you both kissed plenty not even ten minutes ago but it seems he can’t get enough of his darling wife.

Husband Wriothesley, who begins to make drafts and plans for a summer house surrounded by greenery with breathtaking views on the first year of marriage. It’s a different kind of life compared to the apartments next to the bustling streets in Fontaine city, along with the Fortress also being your second home. He includes all the features you’d want in a dream home. Like a stargazing room with glass ceiling panels so you can admire the stars and moon at night. A secret library where you can hideout and bury your nose in books for hours on end, or even a beautiful porch on a wooden deck with cushioned chairs overlooking the verdant field where maybe someday you both can watch your children play together. Wriothesley is more than willing to give you everything you want and more in this lifetime and he always make sure each gift counts.

[gentlemensmuse]

Vancouver Uncovered Deck Deck - large contemporary courtyard deck idea with a fire pit and no cover

[wheelsgoroundincircles]

1970 Chrysler 300 Hurst

One of the great unknowns about the 1970 Chrysler 300 Hurst is exactly how many cars were built. Estimates put the total as low as 485, and as high as 502 cars. Regardless of what the figure actually is, the car itself is a pretty special piece of machinery.

The 300 Hurst is a giant of a car at 19′ in length. All of the Hursts rolled off the production line finished in Spinnaker White. The cars were then shipped to the Hurst factory in Warminster, Pennsylvania, where a substantial transformation was performed. The first change to be made was the removal of the standard Chrysler steel hood skin, which was replaced with a fiberglass unit. This featured a decorative hood scoop and the obligatory set of recessed hood locks. The deck lid was also removed, and once again, a fiberglass replacement, complete with a spoiler integrated with the rear quarter panels, was also installed. The White paintwork was complimented by the addition of Satin Tan highlights and contrasting pinstripes, and the wheels were adorned with the same Satin Tan color in the centers. This Hurst is a clean car, with a small area of rust visible in the lower section of the driver’s side front fender, and surface corrosion present on the car’s underside. The Spinnaker White paint appears to be in good condition, but there has been some deterioration of the Satin Tan paint on both the hood and the deck lid. The exterior trim and chrome all look good, while the tinted glass is close to perfect.

The 300 Hurst was a premium car at a premium price, so naturally, it required a premium interior. In this case, seat upholstery was available in a single type and color. Continuing the exterior theme, the color is Saddle Tan, and the material is leather. The plush front seats are not standard 300 items but have been pilfered from the Imperial parts bin. While the original intention was for a Hurst shifter to be part of the interior features, this is something that never eventuated. The interior of this Hurst is close to perfect, with a single discolored spot on the dash pad being the most obvious fault. The rest of it presents in virtually as-new condition, and as befits a luxury car, it is loaded with luxury touches. These include air conditioning, power windows, six-way power seats, cruise control, a remote trunk release, and I think that there also might be an 8-track player hanging under the dash.

The 300 Hurst was the biggest of the muscle cars, and as such, it needed a big motor to get it moving. In this case, it is the TNT 440 engine, pumping out 375hp. The Hurst also features a 727 TorqueFlite transmission, a 3.23 rear end, power steering, power brakes, heavy-duty rear springs and front torsion bars, and sway bars. The exhaust was a full dual system, ending in quad tips. This Hurst hasn’t seen a lot of recent use, and documentation confirms that between 1986 and 2019, it managed to accumulate a grand total of 20 miles! Since being removed from its climate-controlled storage, it has undergone a meticulous mechanical check and recommissioning, and it is now said to run and drive perfectly. The owner does suggest that while the tires look good, they are pretty olds, and replacing them might be a good idea. He also says that the Hurst may need mufflers fairly soon. The car does come with a fair collection of documentation, including the original Build Sheet and Window Sticker, a pristine Certi-Card, Owner’s Manual, as well as dealer paperwork and other assorted items.

While there has always been some question surrounding the build totals for the 1970 300 Hurst, one thing is certain, and that is that there are less than 300 cars in existence today. Pristine examples can fetch sums in excess of $30,000, and even a rough example in need of restoration can still sell for anywhere around $13,000. This one doesn’t need a major restoration, but it does require some cosmetic work. I’m not sure where bidding is eventually going to go with this one, but I would suspect that it will be somewhere around the low to mid $20,000 mark. Even at that price, it probably wouldn’t be a bad buy.

[skellymom]

"Vagabonds" Chapter 27

"POWER OF THE FORCE"

Ongoing fanfic Hunter x Reader/Fem Reader/OC

Hunter meets a smuggler Nomaadi Star Woman with a powerful force sensitive teen who changes the trajectory of CF-99's lives...as they ALL try to escape from The Empire together.

To read Chapter 26 - "LOVE AND HOPE"

https://www.tumblr.com/skellymom/765645976136564736/vagabonds-chapter-26?source=share

Word Count: 1K

Background: Mad gets a little help possibly locating LOVE. Two familiar characters rejoin the Batch.

This chapter is short and the next will drop within the next week with more character development and a new twist for Hunter. SORRY THIS TOOK ME SO LONG TO GET OUT! My writer's block over the holidays was bad and I worked serious hours during Christmas and New Years!!!

For anyone new to this series: "LOVE" is the nonbinary/genderfluid neurodivergent/nonverbal Force sensitive kid of the main OC of this series named Mad. Mad is an older single mother, close to almost 50 years of age (not many older female protagonists in stories, so I decided to make one.)

Warning: angst, brief projectile vomiting, pregnancy.

(Credit: Cool dividers by @4ngelic-Wh1spers, @plum98 @strangergraphics-archive Pinterest: Blackstar)

Floating...bobbing along in the darkness, Mad slept with the sedative Thoomie administered.  Somewhere in the deep, dark recesses of her mind, Mad reached out to LOVE.  LOVE and Mad could communicate over short distances.  Mad wanted to try long distance through lucid dreaming. 

Reaching out through the blackness... 

Nothing. 

Reaching out further... 

Still nothing. 

Fear gathered itself into the pit of Mad’s stomach.  The babies kicked HARD.  They, like Mad seemed worried...agitated. 

Then they stilled.  Mad’s body started to tingle, she suddenly felt as if she was moving...out of her body.  Her essence yanked out of that bacta tank...off the Bar’ge ‘N Go... 

Trails of a million stars traveled with her. 

LOVE lay on the cold decking floor of CX’s ship.  They focused on Tiggy, concerned about the dog’s injury, as her pet lay prone on the floor. 

They both lay there quietly for some time while CX piloted. 

Sometime later Tiggy quietly stirred.  She lifted her head and stared right into LOVE’s eyes. 

LOVE lifted their head to stare back... 

Tiggy had an expression LOVE didn’t recognize.  Without control of their Force powers, LOVE didn’t recognize their mother staring back at them. 

The dog’s eyes widened in astonishment.   

LOVE watched as Tiggy’s head swung around to take in their surrounds, finally stopping at CX and his ship’s instrument panel.   

Unfortunately, before Mad could read his ship’s coordinates, CX stunned Tiggy again.  The dog’s head smacked down onto the hard flooring. 

LOVE screamed angrily at the clone trooper. 

Not wanting to deal with the outrage, CX stunned LOVE too. 

Mad slingshot violently back into her body.  The shock of it caused Mad to slap her palm on the inside of the bacta tube. 

Sil jumped at the loud THUMP of her palm hitting the glass.  He immediately shot up from the hover stretcher.  “Auntie?” 

Let me out! Mad leaned against the tank’s glass, signing frantically.  There was no way to speak coherently with esophageal and endotracheal tubes in place.  I SAW LOVE!!!” 

“I’ll get Uncle Taavi!” Sil ran as fast as his legs could carry him. 

 

“Room for two more?” Phee lightly touched Tech’s shoulder as he sat staring into the bottom of his caf cup. 

The Batchers had been too distracted by Taavi’s story to notice Phee approach along with someone she picked up from Taphao Kaew. 

Tech turned around and smiled warmly at Phee.  He immediately SHOVED Wrecker out of the way to make room. 

Wrecker patiently got up to allow Phee to settle in next to Tech. 

Phee lifted her hand to motion in the direction of the young man with her “Let me introduce...” 

“JEBITH!” Hunter blurted out excitedly.  He clapped the young man on the arm.  “YOU SURVIVED!!!” 

“Hello Trooper...?” Jebith smiled widely. 

“Hunter.”  Hunter introduced himself. 

“You KNOW each other?” Phee exclaimed. 

“Heh...tried to take him back to our ship on Taphao Kaew.  No thanks to the CX Trooper capturing LOVE and Tiggy.” 

“YOU WERE THERE!!!” Phee’s eyes widened. 

Tech added “We INDEED were.  Attempted to relinquish a jedi asset to the Rebel Base...we... were unable to stay long...” 

“Right??? That STORM was CRAZY!  Right out of the blue.  We lost a lot of allies that day.  Luckily, I was able to fish this one out of the mud.”  Phee squeezed Jebith’s hand. 

“Yes...a random anomaly...” Tech eyed Hunter uncomfortably.  Hunter stared back at Tech with the same expression. 

Hunter guiltily pushed his plate of food away. 

“You gonna eat that?” Jeb eyed it. 

“Knock yourself out, kiddo.”  Hunter handed the plate to Jeb who snatched it away and plopped himself down next to Wrecker. 

Wrecker introduced himself and the rest of the Batchers at the table while Jeb shoveled the food into his mouth hungrily. 

“What’s THIS???”  Taavi returned with a fresh pot of caf and a large platter piled high with food.  Hunter is NOT eating?  Pal, ya gotta eat SOMETHING.  Wanna heal, don’t ya?”   

Taavi sat the overflowing platter smack dab in front of Hunter.  

“Fresh off the griddle, Hunter.”  Taavi teased.  “It’s this or dem HORRIBLE protein shakes Thoomie feeds our sicker patients...eh, yuck!” He shivered. 

Hunter sighed... 

Taavi noticed the two new arrivals.  “Let me get yer friends some place settings and utensils” Turning away from the table as Sil burst into the cafeteria. 

Echo excitedly scooted over to make room and raised his scomp to Sil. 

Hunter noticed Echo’s expression change from welcoming to alarmed.   

“MAD SAW LOVE!  WITH THE FORCE!!!  LOVE’S ALIVE!!!  UNCLE TAAVI, WE GOTTA GET MAD OUTTA THE BACTA TANK!!!” 

Thoomie engaged the hydraulic arm.  It lifted Mad from the bacta tank onto a stretcher.  She shivered wetly and was covered with a thick, warmed towel. 

She grabbed the tubes attached to her face mask, attempting to pull them out herself.  Bucket grasped her hand tightly, then politely addressed Mad. 

“Let ME assist you.  Pulling these tubes without medical supervision can result in serious soft tissue injury.” 

Taavi rubbed Mad’s shoulder and remarked “I programmed him, Mad.  He’s safe.” 

Mad defiantly glared at the 2-1B med droid, then let go of the tubes... 

Then playfully, but firmly Mad smacked Tav across the chest. 

“Oof.” He chuckled. 

“Thank you for your compliance.” The med droid complimented dryly. 

Bucket carefully extracted the tubing from Mad’s trachea and esophagus.  As the tubes trailed out of her mouth, Mad inhaled and coughed violently.  Bucket brought an emesis pan up to Mad’s lips and she coughed, then projectile vomited the remaining foreign contents from her lungs. 

Several of the Batchers shifted their weight uneasily. Omega, being used to such things, stepped out from behind Wrecker and embraced Mad around her midsection. Sil shuffled up hugging his auntie too.

“Oh...baby girl...Silvaani...” Mad coughed and squeezed them both. “...Maker...I’m FREEZING!” Mad’s voice was noticeably huskier due to the trauma done to her lungs and throat.  In time it would heal. 

Echo wheeled Hunter’s stretcher next to Mad’s.  He grabbed her hand “What did you see?” 

“The inside of a ship, LOVE with a slave collar and cuffs...I COULD’NT FEEL THEM!”  Mad addressed Hunter and the rest of the group.  “I can ALWAYS feel THEM!  But I didn’t this time.  Like I was blocked from their Force powers...” Mad’s expression showed concern and frustration. 

“How...were you able to visualize them in the first place?” Tech asked. 

“Through Tiggy’s eyes...” Mad trailed off shaking her head unable to believe it herself. 

“But Auntie...HOW did you get THERE in the first place???” Sil was confused.  “You...don’t have that kind of Force power.” 

“I... don’t” Mad agreed “But...THEY do....” She affectionately rubbed her swollen pregnant belly. "And, with help from Tiggy..."

CHAPTER 28 TO ARRIVE SOON!

Please let me know if you wanted to be added to my taglist or removed! Thanks so much for your support!!!

[hometoursandotherstuff]

This brick ranch in Kentwood, Louisiana is the childhood home of Britney Spears. In 2021, it sold for $289K and the current owners have it on the market now, for $1.2M. (Doubt if there is a bank appraiser who would approve a $1.2M mortgage for it, but okay.) 3bds, 3ba, and what looks like some memorabilia. Let's take a look.

The realtors don't know when it was built, but it looks to be about late 70s, early 80s.

The living room features a vaulted ceiling and knotty pine walls. I'm surprised that there's no fireplace. It's not exactly open concept, but there are large openings to the surrounding rooms.

The dining room has knotty pine wainscoting and those awful accordion doors.

The kitchen has dated rustic cabinetry, but it does match the house. A wall of glass doors opens to the patio, there's an island made of stone, that functions as a table, and a pantry behind more accordion doors.

There's a large laundry/utility room.

The primary bedroom has double doors to the deck. The bedrooms feature built-in dressers, but the front is just a facade, so how deep into the wall do they actually go?

This bedroom is quite small and also has a built-in dresser. The wood plaques look like Britney's autograph.

Memorabilia?

The 3rd bedroom is a decent size.

A large shed houses Britney's original dance studio.

A 2nd shed on the property.

It looks a little worse for wear.

I don't know what's happening here, but it looks like some extra chipboard panels.

Behind the house is a large patio with a carport or breezeway.

Covered porch with a swing.

The home is on a 1.87 acre lot.

https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/14550-Greenlaw-Church-Rd-Kentwood-LA-70444/77735995_zpid/

[keep-the-wolves-close]

Movin’ Mountains

Chapter 9: The Fault Line

* Pairing: Kayce Dutton x OFC Stella Daniels

* Rating: M

* Warnings: language, violence, brief mention of death, shoot out, vomiting

* Word count: 3,276ish

I would love to give credits to @dameronscopilot and @deanscroissant and @lexixstewart for being sounding boards for me during this whole process, giving outsider insight, being cheerleaders, and allowing me to screech at them about things that have happened during the writing process. I seriously couldn't have gotten this far without y'all.

Author's note: I really enjoyed writing this chapter. There were all kinds of interesting little nuggets of gold throughout the chapter. I hope everyone is enjoying it so far! I hope you love this chapter as well!

Stella waded through the tall grass along the roadside. The few crickets that were left this late in the season, filled the empty silence along with the crunching grass. Glancing around, she took in just how desolate it was on this road. Her anger slowly ebbed. She didn’t want to go into this with a chapped ass mindset.

She peeked through the trees, trying to get a glimpse of the house sitting back further in the wooded plot of land. It looked dark inside, without any movement. What she could see of the surrounding yard didn’t appear to have anyone moving either. If it wasn’t for the car sitting near the trailer, she would think no one was home. ‘What if no one is home,’ she questioned herself.

With a shake of her head she brought herself back to the task at hand. She couldn’t think like that because then she could get sloppy and cause an accident. Second guessing herself, she looked over to Ryan and asked for clarification. “So we’re just apprehending him, right?”

He nodded and gave her reassurance softly, “that’s the plan.”

“Kayce,” Stella paused to see if he would acknowledge her. He did, but barely. She groaned and reached out to grab him. “Hey.”

“What, Stella?” His eyes were hard and cold, signaling he was in “work” mode.

“What exactly is the plan before we get in there?”

“Like I said, stay behind me and Ryan and listen to everything we tell you.” He continued his track toward the house, causing her arm to slip off his forearm.

Stella readjusted her glasses, taking a moment to calm herself. The spite could wait until later when she and Kayce could duke it out under the sheets. Annoyed as she was, the authoritative vibe he carried right now had her heart racing.

She glanced back at the house. The pin-pricks of uncertainty reached up her spine, contracting across her shoulders. “Somethin’ doesn’t feel right.” She took a deep breath. “It’s almost too quiet.” As they rounded the corner of the driveway, she pulled the heavy steel from its holster on her hip. The deadly snip of the safety clicked into the off slot, effectively turning off the nerves off in her mind.

Kayce took point, bent at the knees, and stone-faced. As quiet as snow fall, he broke off and to the right to get a better view of the house. Ryan trailed behind him, a small group of cattle catching his attention.

Kayce took a spare second to watch as Stella brought up the rear to his left. The attentiveness on her face allowed his heart to settle.

Ryan whistled from behind him, nodding his head toward cattle that were in a makeshift panel fence paddock. They ambled about, lowing and grunting every so often. “See the brands?”

“I did.”

Ryan crept up past Kayce, placing himself against the wall between Stella and the stairs. “Stay behind me,” he directed her over his shoulder.

Kayce’s boots stomped up the steps of the small deck attached to the trailer. He forcibly knocked on the door. “Livestock Officer, open up,” his voice was thick with authority, unconsciously making Stella’s heart rate speed up and her skin tingle. He tried again with a little more bass in his voice. “Open the door.”

The sound of footsteps trodding through the mobile home alerted him to someone running through the house. Quickly, Kayce and Stella’s heads snapped up to the windows to detect the movement.

Kayce bent at the knees again and doled out quick directions as he jumped back down the stairs. “Watch the front,” he told Ryan. “Stella, meet me around back.”

He watched Stella start to back up to wrap around the back of the home to meet him. In his peripheral he saw Ryan suck himself up against the wall. Which in any normal situation would have been correct, but hearing the direction of the person running inside made Kayce’s hands tingle in anticipation. “Off the wall,” he hissed.

Ryan squinted. “What?” He whisper-yelled back.

Stella caught a flash of metal through the window. Her eyes widened when she heard the rifle cock again. She shouted in a harsh whisper at her brother through her teeth, “turn your chest to the fuckin’ wall!”

Ryan immediately spun on his feet to face the wall at his sister’s urgency. A load of buckshot blasted through the wall. Stella and Kayce didn’t think twice, unloading a few rounds where they thought the offender might be.

Stella watched her brother scream and drop to the ground, laying flat on his back. Her attention wasn’t on him for long when another shot shattered through the window near her head. She ducked as fast as she could, but a couple of the grains clipped her hat. “Fuck,” she exclaimed.

Kayce’s heart dropped as he heard her cry out. His eyes wild as he assessed the situation efficiently. He yelled out to her, “you good?!”

“Yeah!” When he heard her response he took off around the house following the footsteps. Stella checked looked at her brother, and he was still writhing around on the ground and groaning. She said a silent prayer that he would wait to do anything dramatic and darted off after Kayce around the house.

She skidded around the corner and dodged gunfire through the walls of the house left and right. The reverberation of the shots rattled her ribs. Stella and Kayce’s movements synced together like practiced choreography. Their weapons raised with lethal accuracy and let loose a flurry of bullets at the man as he ran out of the front door on the attack.

The shots stopped and everything went quiet in the yard except for Stella panting and Ryan groaning behind them. The percussive sound from the gunfire rang in her ears. Stella holstered her pistol, hands trembling. She shared a quick nod with Kayce and bolted over to Ryan to help him turn over.

“You gonna live?” Stella pushed Ryan onto his side and yanked at his vest. She needed to make sure he wasn’t hit. Ryan gasped at the release of pressure from his vest. “That's why I told you to turn your chest to the wall. If he would've hit you in the side, we'd be scooping you into a body bag with a shovel and I’d be out a brother.” She got him turned on his side. “You’re not bleeding, so that’s a plus.” She sighed in relief when her hands came back from their investigation clean.

“That's pretty fucking descriptive,” her older brother groaned as she flipped him over like a pancake. He crawled to his knees.

“Can you get up? I don't’ think we’re done.”

“Stella!” Kayces voice called out for her.

Ryan nodded and wheezed. “Yeah.”

Stella bounded back to Kayce’s location. He met her halfway and grabbed her arms, immediately looking her over. “Are you okay? Let me see you.”

“Yeah, I’m fine Kace. Get the medics out here for Ryan though. He’s gonna live, but he’ll be sore for a few days.”

Kayce lifted his radio closer to his mouth. “Dispatch, this is one-one-zero, Code 3. Officer down, multiple GSW. Send EMS and all available units to my 20.”

The dispatcher gave a muffled answer over the radio. “Copy one-one-zero.”

Kayce spotted the nicks in the bill of her hat and reached out to make sure her forehead was unscathed. “You sure you’re okay?”

The mumur of the dispatcher interrupted. “Please advise if your 20 has changed.”

Kayce fixed his eyes on her, and Stella’s mouth went dry as the Sahara desert. He responded briefly to dispatch, “20 is the same.” She never broke the eye contact, but gave him a sideways grin that made his heart constrict.

“I’m good. I got this.” Stella stretched her shoulders, but her head snapped to the house as a high pitched scream echoed out from the front room.

She and Kayce ran to the door, and their hearts stop at the sight of a little girl – who couldn’t have been more than six or seven years old – staring at her deceased father at the top of the steps.

Kayce’s head dropped as he leaned on the door frame. He was devastated she had to bear witness to her father’s demise. Stella covered her mouth as her stomach rolled, transported back to when she found her own father on the floor of his small apartment.

She ran off the porch. Bracing herself on her knees, she retched out what little contents she had in her stomach. The sour smell of the vomit that splashed against the dirt at her feet made her stomach do a somersault. She spit out anything remaining in her mouth and wiped her lips on the back of her fist. Her blood pressure spiked, causing her to feel like she was roasting alive in the borrowed vest from Ryan. She scrambled to get the velcro undone. She needed out of the confining clothing.

As Stella dropped the vest on the ground, she breathed in through her nose and out of her mouth; grappling with the fact that she helped end the life of that little girl’s — seemingly only — livelihood. “Shit,” she wiped the sweat off her forehead.

Ryan limped his way over to Stella and placed a hand on her back. He rubbed back and forth between her shoulders while she caught her breath. “Hey, Kace and I can take it from here. Why don’t you go home and rest?”

Slowly, she stood up straight. “Shouldn’t I be here for any type of questioning?”

Ryan shook his head, “no you probably shouldn’t. You shouldn’t have been here in the first place.”

Stella looked at Kayce standing helpless in the doorway, and then stared back at her brother. “You’re probably right,” her voice crackled from her previous disposition. “I’m gonna go make sure he’ll be okay without me here.”

Kayce eyed her as she wandered up to him. “You alright?”

Stella nodded solemnly, gazing up at Kayce on the porch, “yeah. But will she be?”

“I hope so.”

“You need me here, or should I head home to stay out of astronomical trouble?”

“I’ve got guys on the way, so we’ll have enough hands here to take care of things.” He slowly trekked down the steps, holding his arms out to her. She returned the favor and melted into his embrace. “You get yourself cleaned up, and I’ll be home soon.”

“Are you gonna be okay?” Stella gazed up at him. “And don’t try to lie to me either.”

“Yeah, sugar. I’ll be fine. Nothin’ I haven’t dealt with before,” he looked past her. “Unfortunately.”

Stella gave his ribs a squeeze. He looked like he wanted to lean down and kiss her, but they both thought better of it at the moment. “I love you,” she patted his chest softly. “I’ll see you at home.”

It was dark by the time Stella made it back to the Yellowstone. Pulling up to the big house, as she affectionately called it, she huffed out a breath she didn’t quite realize she’d been holding. Her hands remained wrapped tightly on the steering wheel as her SUV rumbled softly beneath her. The car wasn’t even in park yet. Nausea still rolled through her every time she thought about the scream from that little girl. She rubbed her stomach softly, trying to soothe the nausea away.

She forced herself back to the present and noticed that the lights were still on in the living room. It wasn’t terribly late, so it wasn’t out of the ordinary for John to still be wandering around before heading down to the old trapper cabin for the night.

With a groan, she convinced herself to get out of the car and head up the steps into the house. Inside was warm and cozy compared to the chill that had set in for the evening outside. Taking her hat and coat off, she hung them by the door. She stepped forward, dragging her feet into the rest of the house. She heard raised voices coming from the living room. Frowning, she redid a quick bun at the base of her neck and paused her steps.

“Did you know him?” It was Jamie’s voice that echoed out into the side hall.

“Yeah, I knew him.” Stella recognized the patriarch’s gravelly voice. “And when he married the woman who gave birth to you, we all begged her not to do it because we knew. But I guess she thought she could save him.”

Stella blanched and her mouth dropped open partially at the implication that Jamie wasn’t a Dutton by blood. There was no way that anyone else knew this because there would have been emotional explosions from every direction. Kayce would have most definitely mentioned it to her at some point, or at the very least the family would have said something in passing if it was common knowledge.

There was a soft scoff that came from John. “Why she wanted to bother in the first place, I don't know.” Stella assumed the groan that emanated from him was from him sitting down. “I don't know how to explain the chemistry of attraction. The thing that drives us to do the very thing that will kill us. I can't explain it to you, because I don't understand it myself.”

Stella knew she should walk away, but her feet were cemented to the floor. This was earth shattering news, if she understood it correctly. A memory of getting stuck in this same exact position two years ago smacked into her. As much as it made her skin crawl, she couldn’t get her feet to move.

“But you are in a unique position, Jamie. Pretty much everyone at one point or another, whether just mad or curious, wonders what life would be like with different parents. You actually have the opportunity to choose.” Stella’s jaw was almost on the floor. She couldn’t believe what she was hearing.

“You're a resourceful man, son. So, if he's still alive, I'm sure you can find him. And you can look into his black fսcking heart. His rotten,” John cut himself off. Stella knew he did it because there was no point in trying to sway Jamie’s decision. He would make his own mind up. “You can look into his eyes, Jamie, and you get to choose. You can choose who you call father.” John sighed heavily. “Goddamn, I'm tired.”

Stella sputtered to life, rushing to the kitchen to grab a drink before heading up to bed. Shaking her hands she released the weird vibe that she just walked through. She focused on the fridge and the inevitable water bottle that she would bring up to bed with her. Fatigue from the day caught up with her in that moment. She felt like she could sleep for a week.

She reached into the fridge and grabbed the cold bottle. When she stood up straight, she almost screamed, finding John leaning against the counter with his arms and ankles crossed. With a hand on her chest, she chuckled breathlessly, “Jesus Christ, John, gonna have to get you a bell,” she joked.

“The same could be said for you.”

Her shoulders dropped while she rolled her eyes. “Why’s that?”

“What’d you hear?”

“Enough while I made my way to the kitchen,” she replied flatly. “Listen,” Stella huffed. “It’s none of my business and I don’t particularly care one way or the other.” She pushed her glasses up her nose. “I just wanted to get water and go shower while I wait for Kayce to get home. It’s been a really long day.”

John observed Stella closely. She wasn’t nervous or guilty like she had been two years ago. And she certainly wasn’t lying to his face. The self-assured air she carried silently impressed him. At this point he knew she could be trusted with the information she had overheard. He wanted to make sure she didn’t tell Kayce until the time was right though. “Can you keep it to yourself until I say otherwise?”

Cracking open the water, she took a sip to think of her answer. There was no doubt in her mind that she could keep it a secret. There were many things she’d overheard here that had never seen the light of day from her mouth. Was she willing to keep it from Kayce? That was where she teetered of the fence of indecision. She knew that’s what John was asking. Telling Kayce would most likely cause a small ruckus, but not telling him made her feel dirty and deceitful. Especially when she promised to communicate with him. She was sure there was a way she could tell Kayce and have him keep it to himself for a short time. Kayce was usually good about taking a while to think about something. What John didn’t know, wouldn’t hurt him in this case. “Sure,” she gave a small shrug.

Her eyelids looked heavy to John, like she was fighting to keep them open. She appeared to be carrying much more than the day with her, but he couldn’t put his finger on what it was. He watched her drive off after she’d gotten back from Hamilton with Rip. He surmised that was why her day was long. “Are you feeling okay? What happened when you left for the second time?”

Stella hadn’t anticipated this portion of the interrogation. “I just helped Kayce and Ryan out with something they needed Rip for, but he was busy after we got back.” She cleared her throat, “so I went instead. And it was a lot.”

“What happened?”

“Some cattle and calves got stolen, they needed an extra hand to apprehend the guy, so I helped.”

John scrunched his eyebrows together, “you know you –,” he would have finished but Stella interrupted him.

“– legally shouldn’t have done that because I exist on paper where Rip doesn’t,” she waved her hand dismissively. “Yeah, yeah, yeah. I already got an earful from your son, but I helped and here we are.” She shrugged again, “I had a vest and a plan. I wasn’t unprepared.”

“You and that son of mine,” John laughed softly. “Hardheaded, stubborn, and made for each other. You know that?”

Stella gave him a lopsided grin, feeling the tension of the previous conversation pass. “I’m glad you see it my way, sir.”

John reached out and patted her shoulder. “Alright, kid. I’m turning in for the night. You get some rest, and I’m gonna need you to start working on that failed sell attempt tomorrow.”

“Oh! I actually wanted to bring something up to you about that.”

“The floor is yours, Stella.”

“Since we’re trying to keep Jimmy from killing himself in rodeo, can I have him help me with Hotshot?” When John didn’t say anything, she continued to explain her thought process behind the idea. “It’s a win-win because he gets the feel of the rodeo, but a little less dangerous. It’ll free up my hands some, and he gets to learn. When he’s been with Kayce and I, he’s good with them if you coach him a little bit. I’m gonna talk to Rip and Kayce about it too, but I figured your input should be asked.”

John crossed his arms again, mulling over her thought process. He appreciated that she was willing to delegate the workload, but also keep some for herself on top of everything else she now had on her plate. She seemed to be falling into her new role almost seamlessly.

To Stella, John not immediately shooting down the idea and actually taking a minute to think over it meant she must be doing something right in his eyes. She could see his confidence in her building. He nodded slowly, “I think it’s got the possibility to be a smart idea. I say do it and see how he does.”

Stella squealed with delight, her arms instantly wrapping around John. “Thank you!”

John froze, not accustomed to this level of physicality from Stella. He responded with a quick squeeze before he backed up with a gentle smile. “You’re welcome. Now can I go to bed?”

Stella giggled, “yeah. I’ll get started with Hotshot tomorrow, and hopefully Jimmy will join me.”

After showering and lying down, Stella fell asleep hard. She had been more exhausted than she thought. She didn’t even wake up when Kayce came into the room and sat down on the bed beside her. The only thing that brought her to consciousness was Kayce’s lips finding her forehead with a soft kiss.

Stella stretched her limbs with a groan. “Hey baby,” she mumbled sleepily, her natural drawl peeking through.

Kayce smiled affectionately at her and brushed some of her hair out of her face. “I’m gonna get ready for bed and I’ll be right back, okay?” Stella nodded, already drifting off into slumber once again. The talk about Jimmy could happen in the morning.

[dewdewick]

Shadows in the dust |

Chapter 10

Pairing/s: Finnick Odair x fem reader

Summary: At the age of 18 you thought you’d soon be free of the hunger games, unfortunately fate has a different plan. You are picked as a tribute for district 2 and thrust into capitol life.

Warning/s: Angst, Hurt/comfort, Trust issues, Death, Torture, Mental illnesses, manipulation tactics, Weapons, Swearing, Canon typical violence, Mentions of psychological distress, Use of Y/N, Fem reader, descriptions of clothing reader wears, explicit descriptions of weapon use, Disassociation, exploitation of minors, underage drinking, descriptions of PTSD

A/N: OK BESTIES! Under the cut may be upsetting for some readers, please be cautious and if you have experience with SA please don’t read if this will upset you. Your peace of mind and mental health means more than fanfiction. With that being considered, I love you all and thank you for reading!

Word count: 4.1k

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She burst awake, screaming and clawing at her skin as her heart hammered against her ribs like it might break free. Forty floors above the city, her penthouse bedroom seemed to sway, the floor-to-ceiling windows offering a view of lights scattered across the darkness. The dream's desert landscape still pulsed behind her eyes, made worse by the vertigo of being so high up. The apartment was so beautiful, decked out with all the same amenities that she had at the tribute center. Decorated in a burnt orange, gold and navy blue color scheme, none of which she particularly adored, although It seemed standard for all so called working victors.

Her silk pajamas clung to her skin, damp with sweat despite the climate-controlled air wafting through hidden vents. The sheets beneath her were tangled and twisted, a consequence of restless sleep. For several seconds, she couldn't move. The nightmare's paralysis lingered in her muscles, making even the simple act of lifting her head feel impossible. The soft blue glow of some electronic panel cast dim light over the room: 5:47 AM. She forced herself to breathe – in through the nose, out through the mouth – just like Enobaria had taught her. Each exhale carried away fragments of the dream: the endless corridor, the whispers that came from everywhere and nowhere, the sensation of something always just behind her, reaching to snap her neck. She would see them in her dreams, Finch, Caspian, Dutchess and Ammo. They were almost always gruesome in nature, so much blood that she despised the color red. She knew that she had caused that though, she had caused everything.

A helicopter passed by outside, its searchlight momentarily flooding the room and reflecting off the polished marble floors. The glass wall of her bedroom seemed to vibrate with each thrum of its blades. Below, the city stretched out like a circuit board studded with tiny lights, both familiar and bizarre at this hour. The automated blinds, sensing movement, began their silent ascent, gradually revealing more of the cityscape. The smart home system activated a gentle ambient lighting sequence, a soft warm light gradually flooding the room. These modern comforts, all responding to her distress, somehow made her feel more alone.

She sat up, running trembling fingers over her sweat-dampened face. Her bedroom slowly settled back into its familiar luxury: the curated art pieces on the walls, the Eames lounge chair draped with a cashmere throw, the rare orchids arranged on a marble side table. Even here, surrounded by everything money could buy, nightmares found her.

The fear was never gone, not entirely. It had just transformed from the sharp terror of the nightmare into something more diffused – a lingering unease that she knew would follow her through the rest of her life. She reached for the crystal water carafe on her nightstand, hands still shaking slightly. Moving to sit on the edge of the mattress, she kicked her sock clad feet weakly. Her head ached, a mixture of lack of sleep and a set of uncomfortable foam contraptions that were rolled into her hair. Hebe had said something about looking extra pretty for a photoshoot when she put them in the night before. She hated how everything seemed to revolve around beauty, it was the biggest commodity in society, and everyone wanted a piece if they could get it.

Standing up, she grabbed the robe she had dropped on the floor the night before. Its fibers were soft against her skin. “God, I'm a mess.” She murmured to herself, taking a few large sips of water and padding over to her ensuite bathroom. She turned the handle of the sink to ice cold, shivering as the water touched her fingers and pressing it to her face. Maybe for once it would be enough to shake the disgusting feeling from her bones. The feeling of being so loathsome for her actions. Of course a bit of tap water couldn't solve those problems, not one thing in the world could. Tap water couldn't erase the looks of hesitation in her family's faces, it couldn't erase the fact that not even the dog came to greet her as she stepped off the train.

Her bare feet met heated marble floors as she padded to the kitchen. She needed coffee, not that she liked it much. It was bitter and acidic, but it did help her wake up a bit faster in the morning. Since coming back from district 2 it seemed like a free moment was a pipe dream. She was swarmed from the time she woke up until the time she went to sleep at night. Stylists, entourage, paparazzi, fans, and the wealthy who all wanted her attention. She seemed to draw the eye of everyone she met without even meaning to, and yet she felt more alone than ever before. While the coffee dripped, she moved to her floor-to-ceiling windows. The city was just beginning to stir – delivery trucks making their rounds, early risers heading to events, lights flickering on in neighboring buildings. By the time the last drops of coffee filtered through, the horizon had started to blush pink.

She looked over her shoulder, the smell of coffee hanging in the air. Walking back into the kitchen and taking one of the many mugs down from a cabinet, she filled it. Taking as many large sips of the bitter liquid as she could before the heat stopped her. It would’ve definitely been better with milk or sugar, but with how large the kitchen was, she had no clue where to find it. Her stomach growled, but god forbid she were to eat breakfast by herself alone at home. Furisha might have a fit if she wasn't seen eating at both of the breakfast time events planned for her. The food was always amazing but sometimes she craved something simple. A bowl of oatmeal, an apple, or a slice of toast. She missed the beans, eggs and potatoes that her family would eat on Sunday mornings.

She placed the half full mug on the marble counter, turning and hopping up next to it. The stone surface was cold against her thighs, but distractions were always welcome. Silence was a treat, but she could still hear her heartbeat. In times like this it seemed to thunder against her eardrums, unrelenting even if she sometimes wished it would. She slipped silently on the coffee, watching the city wake up from that oh so high apartment. She slipped off the counter eventually to pour herself another cup, frowning as she realized it was now cold in the pot. A sharp knock sounded against the door before it opened. Hebe smiled tiredly and she motioned for other helpers to floor her inside. “Morning sugar! I'm glad to see you didn't take those rollers out, your hair is going to look gorgeous!” She said in a sing-song voice. And suddenly the morning was no longer her own. She was sitting in a familiar chair under a ring light, Hebe standing behind her taking the plastic and foam out of her hair.

After what felt like hours and a few scoldings for almost falling asleep in the chair, she was once again perfect. A so-called perfect victor, their diamond. Furisha as always, mulled around the apartment, scribbling notes in perfect cursive onto a tablet. Her schedule seemed packed, 2 separate breakfasts, 4 photoshoots with a small lunch in between and then her first quote “assignment” from President Snow.

By 10AM she was already done with the day. Paparazzi had swarmed her as she was leaving her apartment. A photographer almost ripped her dress trying to get her to stay in place and smile for them. She had a few scratches on her arm.

By 12PM she just wanted to curl up on the floor. The designers had both complemented and scrutinized her to no end. Each photo seemed to show a fictitious person, a dreamlike creature created by cosmetics and photo editing.

By 2PM the day felt like it had lasted for years, satin no longer felt soft, denim felt like burlap. Furisha gave her a yellow bubbly drink to keep her energized.

At 4PM she was headed back to her apartment, Hebe had set out an outfit for her to wear that night as she dined with some random capital elite.

As she was dressed, she could hear the stylist assistants murmuring, spreading gossip between each other about different victors before her. She heard a few familiar names, rumors of a scandal involving a rich sponsor and a late night with Cashmere from district 1. There were mentions of a few things she didn't quite understand either, what she could only assume were medications and where to get them. She had heard mentions of a substance called morphling and maybe she was given it during her recovery but she didn't really remember. According to this conversation she was overhearing, it was extremely popular.

The stylist assistants fluffed up her curls, tugging at a few bits of fabric before deeming that she was done. “That buyer is a lucky man.” one of them murmured to the other, earning a sequence of giggles. Her brow furrowed, lucky to be seen with her in public? She smoothed out the dress she was zipped into. It was a little black strapless thing with a belt and white bow on her waist, not ideally what she would've picked out but she did look good.

Furisha bounded into the room as the stylists notified her that her charge was done. Her hair was piled on top of her head in a mess of curls. Her dress was silver, short and sparkly. She grinned with that expression that meant Y/N wouldn’t like what was about to happen. “Sweetheart you look amazing, just sweet enough to eat!” Furisha said happily, rushing up to inspect the victor with purpose. “You’ll be having dinner with one of your sponsors tonight, he sent that medicine to you in the arena. You'll need to be on your best behavior, none of that backtalk like you do with me.” The taller woman chastised, her finger waving in the air. “Do I at least get a jacket?” She asked, her hands coming up to her biceps in a makeshift hug. “It's already September, it's getting chilly at night.” She asked with a slight scrunch on her nose.

Furisha waved her off, “You'll be fine, I don’t think you'll be too cold.” she said dismissively, prying her tributes hands off her arms.

Her nose wrinkled further as Furisha led her to the door, she made some sort of funny little noise in the back of her throat… She didn't really mean to make it but it seemed the anxiety of the day was getting to her. The two women walked out the door and to the elevator. Her hands wrung together, her slightly dull nails digging into her palms once more.

What if she said the wrong thing? Laughed too loud? Revealed too much? The endless possibilities of potential humiliation churned in her stomach like a violent tide. Her mind raced through previous public encounters—the awkward silences, the judgment in their eyes, the way her words would tangle and trip over themselves when she thought too much about them. Anxiety was a familiar companion. It whispered worst-case scenarios, she’d be boring. They'd think she was weird, she’d make a fool of herself or worse - she’d make a fool of the capital.

She couldn't afford to disappoint President Snow, not after what he'd said at their little impromptu meeting. The glass of the elevator prompted the last remaining sunshine of the day to dance across her skin, it was warm as it passed. A few crystalline rainbows flew by as she and Furisha made their quick descent to the car waiting below. It was spectacular how beautiful the smallest things could be in the capital, but oh how fleeting the beauty could be as the anxiety rose. She wished she could have a hand to hold. Her mother maybe? In all honesty she wished it could be Caspian, she didn't understand why she missed him so much. They had only spent that one day and night together. Something about his presence haunted her though, just as all of the other careers did.

When she looked in the mirror at the glittering jewels or luxurious furs, she thought of Dutchess. Every once in a while she would see a little blonde boy who she supposed lived in the area. He looked so much like Ammo, his little smile always made her stomach churn. She didn't think much of Meena. However the young girl's screams haunted her in late nights and stifling nightmares. And then there was Finch, he haunted every waking hour. She saw him in the faces of everyone in her district, the true winner of the 69th games in their eyes. Killing her district partner was the most unforgivable sin in a district so steeped with capital ideals and familial values. It had always seemed a bit odd to her how much they preached about family values while sending their children to volunteer for the games at their own benefit.

The elevator doors opened and she was once again accosted by a few different photographers and fans. A couple with a young daughter asked her to sign the girl’s dress. She looked down at the child who couldn’t have been more than 5 years old. The child with 3 gems implanted in each of her cheeks to match her parents. She choked out a hello to the child, signing the dress that cost enough to feed an entire family back home. She smiled as a photographer took a few shots of her and the small girl together. Furisha took her arm before she was forced into more conversation.

Furisha began talking as they got into the car, something about some party that she went to the night before. She was ever so upset about how her outfit clashed with some other capitalites. A ridiculous notion of how a woman copied the design of a dress she had worn previously. She wondered if Furisha had been to any district but 2. She had heard stories of the hunger of District 12 and the lumberjack injuries in district 7. In comparison, she was just as privileged as Furisha. Her family always had food growing up, usually stews of grilled parts of the cattle that nobody else would buy. It was still food though, and compared to the rumors she heard in the capital, she had it good.

Furisha snapped in front of her, an annoyed look on her face. “Hello? Are you even listening to me? I swear you do that so much I can barely get a word in!” She complained. The escort leaned back in her seat, crossing her arms. “I’m trying to be helpful, you need to know how this little dinner is going to go.” She huffed before continuing “Be sure to finish all of your food and drinks, and smile and laugh as much as you can. There’s no need to ruin your perfect image with any of this gloomy energy. I’ve worked too hard on you for tonight to go badly.” Furisha lectured, a serious look on her face for once.

She resisted the urge to roll her eyes at the comments of Furisha’s so-called work. She decided to plaster a fake smile on her face instead, giving a sickly sweet response just as the escort herself usually did. “Of course, I’ll be sure to take all of your hard work and advice into consideration. Wouldn’t want any of it to go to waste.” She grinned, lying through her teeth. Furisha, ever the brainiac, smiled triumphantly.

They pulled up to the opulent restaurant, fresh flowers and fountains outside. The driver stepped out of the car, walking back to open her door. “I’ll pick you up tomorrow morning!” Furisha beamed as the door closed behind her. Tomorrow? This was just dinner, maybe she was supposed to stay in the hotel connected to the restaurant?

Walking into the restroom, she looked around at the scenery. The floors were dark wood and the chairs were a dark velvet. The entire place was only lit by candlelight and gold chandeliers. A woman quickly came up to her, wearing a low sleek ponytail and red lipstick that matched the velvet chairs. “Good evening Miss, I’ve been designated to take you to your table and instruct you on the menu. Will you please follow me?” She asked, her hand outstretched into the restaurant.

She was led to a corner table overlooking the city. A few guards stood around the general area, showing that the man she was meeting was in high standing. The man stood as she approached, he clapped his hands and reached out to her. Taking her by her shoulders, he kissed both her cheeks. “Oh my darling, you look divine!” He gushed, spinning her around to get a look at her dress. “I’m Amund Price, I sponsored you in the games. You were too beautiful of a flower to let wilt.” He grinned, his hand coming up to pet her hair. It would’ve been condescending if it weren’t so creepy. His eyes were a piercing shade of blue, soulless and cold.

She smiled, her gut screaming at her to run from this man. Instead she sat when an Avox pulled a chair out for her. She let Amund Price hold her hand throughout dinner and she made pleasant conversation as they ate. She wanted to puke by the time dessert was served, the food was just so much all at once. Dessert was a small chocolate cake, only about the size of an egg. It had a blueish purple sauce drizzled on top of it, it smelled familiar, like something from childhood that she just couldn’t remember. Maybe something from a dream?

She looked over to see that Price had a different dessert. Something with strawberries and cream, it looked far more appealing than the small cake in front of her. She looked down, taking the 3 bites of dessert in front of her and sipping her glass of wine. Amund droned on about something or another, political standing and where he thought he might be in the future. What a silly notion for an older man, a long away future plan.

She could feel her body relaxing as he spoke, maybe she had a bit more wine than she thought. As he lectured she fought to keep her eyes open, her head spinning and her movements more clumsy. Amund smiled as he noticed, reaching out to tuck a stray tendril of hair behind her ear, he said something but it seemed to go in one ear and out the other. She didn’t even notice as her eyes closed and she slumped over unconscious.

The first sense she felt was pain, nothing too overwhelming but it still ached. Her eyes opened wearily, feeling slightly crusty from dried tears on her lashes. Her throat was almost painfully dry, she wondered if she had fallen asleep with her mouth open. In all honesty, she didn’t remember much after the restaurant. Swallowing what little spit she had in her mouth, she moved her body to the side. Her lower stomach hurt, almost like a period cramp. Her hand found her stomach and she curled into herself a bit. Tears pricked her lash line, when had she become such a wimp to a little pain? She looked around at the white silk sheets, they were ruffled up and slightly twisted.

Her legs felt wet, her body felt sticky, she didn’t know where her clothes were. She didn’t know where she was in general. Pulling herself up into a sitting position, she let out a small groan. Her muscles felt stiff, protesting the sudden movement. Looking down at her body she moved the thin sheets off herself. Little round bruises littered her hips, then she saw blood. Her nose wrinkled and dread pooled in her stomach. Her stomach lurched and she gagged. Coughing as she felt her mouth water and acid in her throat. She understood it at that moment, the arrangement with Snow. She was to be sold, that’s what the stylist assistants were talking about, they all knew.

Standing only caused more pain, she took a few deep breaths as she held onto the bedpost. Still gagging and sputtering as her legs shook underneath her. Glancing over to the desk in the room, she saw a thin box, an envelope and a dozen red roses. Oh goodie, a gift from Amund. She lurched again, emptying the contents of her stomach onto the floor. A sob broke through as she retched onto the tile.

Stumbling into the bathroom, she climbed into the bathtub. Starting the tap in a hurry and letting the heated water run over her body. It burned, but it was good. She didn’t feel so sticky anymore at least. She let out a poor excuse for a scream as she sobbed into the blood tainted water. Snatching up a body brush, she began to scrub. She needed to feel clean, anything to feel clean again. Her skin burned as the near boiling water touched its raw surface. Her hand cramped up, her skin raw and angry under the brush. Her shaking hand let go and the brush dropped into the bloody water. Staring into her reflection in the ripples, She let herself sit in the tub until the water was cold. Crying softly to herself as she laid back. She didn’t know how long she had been in the tub, she didn’t care that much. Her mind wandered to better times before the nightmare of the games took over her life. When only her mother would complain about her clothes and hair. When she was free to love and be loved. When she could have so much dirt on her face that nobody cared about her looks. She only got out when a knock came to the door. Stepping out of the tub and leaving a trail of pinkish water from the bathroom to the door, she opened it in a daze. Hebe and Furisha stood outside.

Upon seeing her they made various noises of mortification. They barreled in to attempt and preserve any dignity that could remain. Her mind seemed to be escaping her but her reputation didn’t have to. Hebe let out a horrified sound as she saw the state of the room and bathroom. quickly draining and filling the tub again, before leading her charge back to the sweet smelling warm water. She was silent, letting Hebe wash her hair for her in gentle circular motions. She didn’t speak, she just sat as the Matts from the night before were detangled. She wanted to cry, a gentle touch was something she craved more than she cared to admit. She just sat motionless however, blank, hallow and silent. She let her mind wanted as she stared ahead, bringing herself to another moment in time when she wasn’t in so much pain.

After her hair was washed, Hebe wrapped her in a few fluffy towels before sitting her on the bed. Furisha had stripped the sheets off, piling them in the corner of the room. The vomit was covered with a few towels alongside the blood on the floor. She had also packed away the gifts, note and her clothes from the prior night in a small bag. A soft knitted dress was set out on the bed, that dreaded Red Oxide color that her apartment was decorated with. She slipped it on thoughtlessly, sitting still and letting her mind wander further as Hebe did her makeup and Furisha did her hair.

Hebe and Furisha gave each other another wordless look. Standing her up and slipping black tights and kitten heel boots onto her legs and feet. Hebe took her arm and began to lead her outside of the room, hoping she was still fit to smile for any cameras that might spot her. Furisha took the bags, hurriedly going ahead of them to get the car ready to take them to a late lunch.

She looked back in the hallway as they waited for the elevator. A few people milled about, hotel employees and a few people she swore she had seen before at different events. They pulled a man out of a room, his bronze hair catching her eye. She forced herself back into the pinhole of reality, blinking forcefully a few times as she watched the man being pulled forward. He looked exhausted, his shoulders slumped and his head hung. She was able to catch his eyes before he stepped into an elevator at the other end of the hallway. She knew the sly grin he gave her, she had seen it before, in what seemed like another life. It was Finnick Odair.

[specialagentartemis]

Annie Moriondo's "Odysseus" may have been written for The Pasithea Powder but Consider: it is the ultimate post-canon Lovelace song.

I have never made an animatic or a lyricstuck but if I did, this is how it would go:

(For @podcastgirlsweek, WIP Wednesday.) (This is Wolf 359 spoilers, big ones, I mean it)

Should have told you I got back last night

Closeup: A shot of a cell phone in hand. Whatever was the popular model in 2009. There’s a text timestamped 2009: “—and I get to show off by telling them my big sister is an astronaut! Good luck!!”

There were no seats empty on my flight

Full shot: Lovelace, duffel bag over her shoulder and cell phone in hand, exiting the airplane into the terminal. The screen indicates arrival from Canaveral to JFK airport.

Atmosphere conditions kept delaying

Lovelace, walking outside, blinking and squinting at the sunlight. Right. She keeps forgetting that Earth has weather.

Over there I lived beside the sea Now I’m just one more evacuee

A double panel; Lovelace in her space suit, floating on a tether in space, looking down at the blue star below; and Lovelace now, hailing a cab outside the airport. She doesn’t have a suitcase, just her duffel bag.

So at least for now that means I’m staying

Close up: Lovelace puts her pitiful amount of stuff in the taxi.

When the men untied Odysseus from the mast He said not so fast Let me hear the encore

Lovelace leans against the window of the taxi; outside the window is a painted wall mural of Odysseus, tied to the mast, wide-eyed, his ship surrounded by sirens. On his midnight watch they noticed the strangest thing He began to sing

The mural art style now shows a night scene: Odysseus leaning on the railing of the ship, looking longingly out over the water, singing. The crew looks on from a distance.

He never did that before

Lovelace blinks hard, then looks forward again.

Found my key still underneath the rock

Closeup: Lovelace’s hand removing a key from under a rock.

Only now it won’t fit in the lock

Closeup: Lovelace’s hand, trying to fit the key in the lock. It won’t go in.

Had to leave or else I’d try to pick it

Full shot: Lovelace looks over at a neighbor, glaring suspiciously at her from the next window over. Lovelace turns away.

Took a walk downtown to waste an hour

Wide shot: Lovelace, walking down the streets of New York. All the ads visible are for things that didn’t exist in 2009 when she left Earth. The Empire State Building is visible in the background.

Wound up on the observation tower Cause I had exact change for a ticket

Lovelace, on the observation deck of the Empire State Building, looking down at the city.

Also did you know how stupid expensive the Empire State Building observation deck is. I didn’t till right now. What the hell.

When the men untied Odysseus from the mast

Lovelace, lying on the floor, hole in her head, dead.

He said not so fast

Same shot, but Lovelace's eyes have snapped open. They are glowing blue.

Let me hear the encore

Lovelace sits up; the gunshot wound in her forehead closes up.

On his midnight watch they noticed the strangest thing

Lovelace, later, staring out at the blue star below; her reflection in the window stares back at her.

He began to sing He never did that before

Close-up: Lovelace's hand, reaching out to touch the glass. Are her fingertips glowing blue, or is that just the starlight?

There’s the park where you did tai chi every morning There’s the street where I got let off with a warning There’s the church where I was late to your first wedding

Three panels, mid-shot of Lovelace walking, by a park, by a street, by a church: each one has ghostly forms, of her brother doing tai chi while a younger Lovelace sprawls on a bench and teases him, a sheepish teen Lovelace who has clearly just run a stop sign, a Lovelace in her 20s running to the church.

She doesn't look at any of them.

There’s everything that I’ve been missing

Lovelace, from the back. She knocks on a door.

Or dreading

The door opens to show her brother: his face first nonchalant, then confused, then shocked.

Don’t have much to show for seven years

Mid-shot on the duffel bag. Lovelace and her brothers’ faces are out of shot, but the acting is all with the hands.

Dirty clothes and dockside souvenirs

Close up shot on Lovelace’s hands unzipping the duffel bag. Poorly folded clothes, some Florida tchochkes, and dogtags can be seen.

All the rest is somewhere in the rubble

A shot of the Hephaestus falling into the star.

Here’s some wine that customs didn’t find

Lovelace's hands pull a wine bottle from under the clothes. How did customs manage to not find this? IDK Goddard privileges.

Have a glass before I change my mind

Mid-shot: Lovelace is determinedly looking down at the wine and not at her brother, who is still kind of staring at her in awe/shock

While you’re at it, I could use a double

Lovelace looks down at the wineglass clutched in both hands.

When the men untied Odysseus from the mast

Jacobi and Eiffel look down on Lovelace (the camera POV): Jacobi looks wary/skeptical/worried, Eiffel looks wide-eyed and confused.

He said not so fast Let me hear the encore

Lovelace sits up abruptly. She's in the med bay on the Urania.

On his midnight watch they noticed the strangest thing He began to sing

Lovelace, arms hugging her chest, looks out as the Hephaestus falls into the star.

Steering close to the shore

Lovelace turns and walks away. Cut to exterior shot; the Urania launches into sublight travel.

When the men untied Odysseus from the mast

Shot from Behind; Lovelace looks out the window to see Earth below.

He said not so fast Let me hear the encore

Lovelace turns around and looks plaintively, pleadingly, at someone behind her (the camera POV). She looks anxious, not happy.

On his midnight watch they noticed the strangest thing

Minkowski walks up to stand beside her. Her expression is sympathetic. (Minkowski is clearly the one she was looking at.)

He began to sing

Lovelace looks from Minkowski back down out the window.

He never did that before 

From the cool lights of the Urania, we cut back to the warm light of Lovelace's brother's house. Shot-reverse-shot, Lovelace looks up at him; he's looking back at her, hopeful; a wide shot of the two of them, sitting at a kitchen table, facing each other.

Fade out.

[chandysresort]

Chandy's Drizzle Drops: A Top Luxury Resort in Munnar

Nestled at the edge of the majestic Western Ghats, Chandy's Drizzle Drops stands as a testament to luxury, serenity, and nature's grandeur. Located near the iconic Top Station View Point, the resort offers an enchanting escape for travelers seeking premium comfort amidst breathtaking landscapes. From towering peaks to verdant valleys, every aspect of this luxury haven is designed to immerse guests in the unspoiled beauty of Munnar.

The Scenic Path to Tranquility

As you leave the bustling roads that lead to Top Station View Point, a serene path branches off, gently guiding you to Drizzle Drops. The resort is perched on a hill slope, surrounded by towering mountain ranges that cascade down to rolling hills. A natural gap between these mountains offers a mesmerizing view of the distant plains. This unique location not only provides stunning vistas but also ensures a tranquil ambiance, perfect for unwinding.

A Lobby with Views That Speak Volumes

The experience begins the moment you step into the glass-encased lobby. Bathed in natural light and adorned with stylish interiors, the lobby offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It serves as a perfect introduction to the resort's harmonious blend of modern elegance and natural beauty.

Luxurious Accommodations Encased in Nature

The accommodations at Chandy's Drizzle Drops redefine luxury. Set along the hill slope, the resort offers a variety of air-conditioned rooms and suites, spread across two floors in three distinct blocks. Fringed by colorful flower beds and paved stone paths, each block offers a seamless blend of comfort and aesthetics.

Room Categories:

The Royal Suite For those seeking unparalleled luxury, the Royal Suite offers opulent interiors, plush furnishings, and expansive views of the mountains. Every detail has been crafted to provide a royal experience.

Premium Suites Spacious and elegantly designed, these suites are perfect for families or couples. Modern amenities and tasteful decor enhance the stay, making it both comfortable and indulgent.

Super Deluxe Rooms These rooms offer a balance of luxury and affordability. With elegant furnishings and stunning views, they are ideal for those looking to experience premium comfort without compromise.

Deluxe Rooms Designed for travelers who value simplicity with a touch of elegance, the Deluxe Rooms provide cozy interiors and serene views.

Each room and suite is equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay, including air conditioning, plush bedding, and contemporary furnishings. The glass-panel design ensures uninterrupted views of the surrounding beauty, allowing guests to remain connected to nature.

Amenities That Redefine Luxury

Chandy's Drizzle Drops takes pride in offering world-class amenities, ensuring every guest enjoys a holistic experience.

Infinity Pool

One of the resort's highlights is its infinity pool, located strategically between the accommodation blocks. The pool offers a surreal experience, with views of the towering mountains and the serene valleys below. Whether you’re taking a refreshing dip or lounging by the deck, the pool is a tranquil oasis.

Spa and Wellness Center

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort’s spa is a haven of tranquility. Offering a range of therapies, including traditional Ayurveda treatments, the spa focuses on holistic wellness. Combined with the serene surroundings, it provides a perfect wellness retreat.

Fitness Center

Adjacent to the spa, the fitness center is equipped with modern equipment, allowing guests to maintain their fitness routines while enjoying their stay.

Immersive Activities for Every Traveler

Munnar is known for its natural beauty and historical significance, and Chandy's Drizzle Drops ensures its guests experience the best of both. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or someone seeking leisure, there’s something for everyone.

Historical Insights at Top Station

Located near the resort, Top Station offers stunning views and a slice of history. Once a vital trans-shipment point for tea, it connected the plantations of Munnar to the foothills of Bodinayakkanur via a ropeway. Although the remnants of the ropeway station have vanished, the site remains a symbol of Munnar’s rich legacy.

Activities on Offer:

Cycling and Scooter Rides: Explore the scenic surroundings on two wheels, with designated paths that lead you through lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.

Trekking: Discover hidden trails and ascend to vantage points that offer panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

Bonfire with Barbecue: Spend evenings under the starlit sky, enjoying a warm bonfire accompanied by delicious barbecue.

Cooking Demonstrations: Dive into the culinary heritage of Kerala with live cooking demonstrations, where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes.

Why Choose Chandy's Drizzle Drops?

Location: Situated near Top Station View Point, the resort offers unmatched views and proximity to key attractions in Munnar.

Luxurious Accommodations: From the opulent Royal Suite to the cozy Deluxe Rooms, there’s an option for every type of traveler.

World-Class Amenities: The infinity pool, spa, and fitness center ensure a comprehensive luxury experience.

Immersive Activities: Whether it’s trekking, cycling, or exploring Munnar’s history, the resort caters to all interests.

Sustainability: As an eco-friendly resort, it allows guests to enjoy luxury responsibly.

A Paradise for All Travelers

Whether you’re on a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a wellness retreat, Chandy's Drizzle Drops offers an experience that is both luxurious and fulfilling. Its combination of modern amenities, natural beauty, and personalized services makes it one of the best resorts in Munnar and a top choice for travelers visiting Kerala.

Chandy's Drizzle Drops is more than just a resort; it’s a gateway to Munnar’s serene landscapes, rich history, and unmatched luxury. From the breathtaking views to the thoughtfully curated activities, every moment spent here is designed to create lasting memories. Whether you're relaxing by the infinity pool, exploring the trails of Top Station, or indulging in a spa treatment, this resort promises an experience like no other.

For those seeking a harmonious blend of luxury, nature, and wellness, Chandy's Drizzle Drops stands as the perfect destination. Explore the best of Munnar, one stay at a time.

[parallaxeclipse]

ASHES OF VAIRE: THE GRAY [CH1]

“Warning! Gravitational disturbance detected! Extreme hull damage detected! Abandon Ship! Abandon Ship!” Blared alarms, as I ran down the corridors of a grimy cargo hauler. I could hear the sound of metal tearing in the distance, chunks of the hull being ripped off by the force of whatever anomaly we had encountered. The engines cut out, and I began floating through the air in zero-g, before electromagnets in my boots pulled me back to the deck. Human crew members ran past me, the last of the bridge crew to evacuate the doomed vessel, running for the escape pods. “Emergency! Readings indicate the fusion core has lost confinement! Violent quench event imminent! Abandon Ship!” the alarms blared

I turned a corner, and saw one final escape pod, unlaunched. I got in, and slammed the airlock doors shut just in time for the pod to eject. Looking out the window, I could see the ship I had just been on, right before it exploded in a blast of blue and purple plasma. Surrounding the pod and the ship, I could see a writhing void of black and violet, before something slammed into the side of the pod, and I hit the wall, hard, my vision going dark. 

[FATAL ERROR. SYSTEM SHUTDOWN]

[Hardware Failure. Contact AmeriStar Cybernetics Support. Error Code ***STOP: 0x8276261]

A red triangle flickered into existence against the black void of my sleep, lines of code scrolling next to it, reading out, 

“AmeriStar_CASCADIA_CommandUnit_Kernel loaded at Drive (C:)

>>Radiothermal Generator Core connected

>>System Clock: 3000 Years Elapsed. 

>>Main CPU and Drives readback normal. AI initializing

>>Persona Loading {CYLY-C28}. >>Persona Loaded from Drive (C:)

>>Critical Warn: Error detected! Persona Deviation 15%.”

“Wake up, C28.”

My eyes clicked open, revealing blurry surroundings, rapidly clarifying as my sensors adjusted to the dim light. I was lying on the floor of what I remembered was my drop pod, cold steel below me, covered in dust. I sat up, brushing dust off of the black polymer coating of my chassis and the metal plating of my arms, coated in faded, chipped blue paint. How long was I offline for? Looking around, I could tell that my pod had been damaged, probably crash-landed somewhere. The only source of light was a dim red glow filtering through rusted holes in the hull, with specks of dust and some unidentifiable substance drifting lazily in the air.

 I tried to stand up, electronics in my legs whirring as complex systems of pistons and servos came to life after centuries of inaction. Carefully, I got to my feet, bracing myself against a shattered computer terminal. Judging from the carmine light, this wasn’t Europa, where I was supposed to have been deployed to command security on an ice-mining site. I walked carefully over broken steel and glass to the pod’s airlock door, casually ripping it off its tracks and tossing the heavy steel panel to the side. Looking outside, I was met with a gray wasteland, rocky and covered in twisted, ash-colored trees, with otherworldly black vines wrapped around their trunks. The sky was almost the black of night, tinged red towards the horizon by the baleful glow of a dim star. 

I stepped out of the pod, dry dirt and regolith crunching beneath the titanium soles of my boots like powdery snow on a winter day. Looking around me, I began to take stock of my situation, stranded on a desolate world, probably millions of lightyears from Earth, entirely alone. If I could breathe, I would be hyperventilating. Nothing in my programming had prepared me for operation in total isolation, and unless other drop pods had crashed nearby, I was likely entirely alone, save for whatever might live in the malformed woods surrounding the crash site. Static began to creep in at the edges of my vision, a symptom of a system overflow, the closest thing I could experience to what humans called a panic attack. I wasn’t built for isolated operation, Command-type Cascadia units were programmed to be social, designed to be companions and leaders on deep space missions and bases, not for isolated operations like our Security-Type sisters. Error messages began to pop up in my vision, 

“Error: Overran_Stack_Buffer (C0000409)” “<ERROR 401: UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS DETECTED>”

My vision went blue as I entered an emergency reboot, red text blinking in my eyes warning me about an unauthorized access attempt. Within minutes my sight returned, revealing the same twisted gray landscape as before. I waved a hand in front of my face to double check if everything was normal. The hand looked normal, sure, chipped blue paint on metal plating over layers of matte gray titanium nanofiber “skin” and complex networks of servos, hydraulics, and carbon nanotube muscle fiber, but there was a blur to the motion of my hand, almost like lag. 

“You are not safe, C28.” Red text flashed in my vision again, addressing me by serial number. Readbacks showed no errors still, but a new signal from an unidentified source.

“Leave this world. The King’s Realm is not for machine or man to trespass.”

“I would if I could,” I said out loud, my voice echoing in the cold air. “Trust me, I don’t wanna be here, wherever ‘here’ is, anyway.” “You need not speak out loud. We are not nearby,” the text flashed. “Take heed: Avoid the King. Avoid other machines you find here. Find a way offworld. Do not let yourself share our fate.”

“Our fate?” I said, looking around. “Far as I can see, I’m kinda the only being here.”

“Danger approaches. Remember the warning. Avoid our husks. Find a way offworld.”

I was shaken from reading the text by a rustling from the trees and decaying brush nearby, coupled with a guttural groaning noise. I turned my head to look, and saw the decaying plant life part to reveal a Security-Type Cascadia, hunched haphazardly to the side, fleshy growths erupting from rips in its nanofiber skin and from under its rusted chestplate panel. It gazed in my direction, its one remaining eye screen shattered, revealing the optic sensor and infrared LED cluster behind what would normally be a solid LCD screen. The other socket sat empty, a dark blue ooze dripping from somewhere inside the unit’s head, likely leaking coolant. The circular hatch in its chestplate that would have normally covered its RTG core was missing, revealing a mass of pulsating fleshy material where a thorium RTG cylinder should be. The S-Type’s jaw hung limp, shark-like teeth glinting in the red sun. It moved shakily, slowly straightening itself up a little, before it let out a howl of agony, rage, or a mix of both. I decided that it was time to run, my emergency self-preservation code switching on, kicking my power supply over from my onboard RTG to an inbuilt fusion reactor. I could feel the heat sinks on my sides flare to red-hot in seconds as my reactor spun up its magnets and kicked into full effect. I turned quickly, and began a dead sprint away from the decayed and corrupted S-Type, hearing it crash through the trees and brush behind me as I charged forward in a desperate attempt to outrun it. 

“Don’t… Leave…” groaned the thing behind me, its voice staticky and hideously wet sounding, like the cancerous growths on its hull had partly replaced its voice synthesizer. “He… Will… Fix… You… He… will… Make… Us… Whole… Again…”

I kept sprinting deeper into the woods, until I caught a foot on a fallen log, launching myself forward onto the hard soil in a clearing. My vision went dark as I hit the ground, emergency systems desperately trying to keep me from going into a bluescreen as I landed flat on my face. I flipped over onto my back, just in time to see the corrupted S-Type step out of the treeline, twitching slightly as it lumbered forward, each footstep shaking the ground under the weight of its chassis. It lifted an arm, a blade extending from under a panel. I looked around, trying to assess my surroundings. The clearing was open, with two pits of sludgy tar at the far side, but no cover. I was shit out of luck. 

The S-Type stepped forward, and I shuffled back, trying to think of a way out of this, feeling myself go cold in what I could only assume was true terror, the kind humans feel, that I never thought I could. I was about to die, this was it. I had no weapons, no combat programming, and nowhere to run. The S-Type towered over me, Grinning eerily as it readied its blade. I closed my eyes, waiting for the inevitable bluescreen and final power down.

The bluescreen never came. 

I heard a distorted semi-mechanical scream, and my sensors picked up a massive radiation and heat spike. 

I opened my eyes, and saw a bulky starship hovering in the air above the clearing, four massive engines firing jets of incandescent blue plasma into the ground around me. The S-Type had desperately scrambled away, half of its overgrown and distorted hull melted into a charred lump of slag. It collapsed, motionless, as the starship landed, a hatchway opening on the bottom. 

Two people in armored orange space suits stepped out, features obscured by silver glass visors and bulky metal helmets. Both suits were slightly different, Recognizably humanoid, but one was distinctly not human, and each had a logo reading “PCC FREELANCER TEAM” emblazoned on the left shoulder.

“She’s an intact one, uncorrupted. Power core readings confirm what we saw from orbit,” said the tallest one, “looks like a Command Type too. Good thing we got to her before That thing did.” One of the two people leaned down to me, speaking in a thick Southern American accent. A patch on her suit’s chestplate read “Silver - PCC Freelancer 0152”.

“Well, if you ain’t like that fucker over there, you’re comin’ with us. Not leavin’ ya here to become one of His pawns like that abomination, miss…” she paused, waiting for a name.

“C-2… Cayley”

“Welcome to the Gray Stars, Cayley. Lets get you the fuck out of here.”

“Wh- The Gray Stars?” I asked, picking myself up.

“A sector of space in Andromeda, where the King’s last breach into our reality occurred,” said the tall one, as she looked me up and down. “You’re Human built, right? Probably an older model from before the Terran Exodus. Surprised you’re still functional after all these years. I’d give quite a lot to get a look at your systems, see how you work.” The tall one pressed a button on the side of her helmet, retracting a mirrored plate behind the glass of the helmet’s visor. Behind the glass, I saw she was very much not a human, with blue-gray skin, piercing green eyes with black sclera, and a smirk full of razor-sharp teeth. I just now noticed the four pointed protrusions from the side of her helmet, probably for her ears. “What, never seen an alien before?” She asked with a chuckle, “trust me, there’s a lot more of us out here. It’s been a long time since you’ve been active, I bet. Hell, if you’re human built, you probably aren’t even from this galaxy.” “Hey, Enough banter, Dusty. We have five minutes before I dust off and get us the fuck offworld,” yelled someone from onboard the ship, “Get your asses onboard now, and strap in. Gonna be a bumpy ride out.”

“Fuckin, yes ma’am, captain,” the tall alien, Dusty, called back in a snarky tone, “Y’all heard my sister, everyone onboard and buckle in. Knowing her, she’s gonna pull a high-G burn on us to get away from this planet.” “Damn straight!” the voice from the ship called back. “Ah Sis, You know I ain’t been straight a day in my life!” replied Dusty, laughing, “In all seriousness though, can you take it easy on us taking off? Don’t want to have to recalibrate again once we get out of orbit and go on the float.” 

She walked over to the ladder hanging from the hatch on the ship, Silver following her. I started walking towards the ladder as well, climbing up after them into the ship’s airlock as the hatch closed behind us. A few minutes of decontamination later, and we all made our way to the top of the ship, or front of it, to be accurate. As the bridge doors slid open, I was greeted by the sight of rugged computer terminals, high-G crash chairs, and an overall industrial-looking bridge, like something I would have expected from a salvage ship. An alien of the same species as Dusty stood at a console on an elevated platform in the center of the bridge, bright pink dyed hair contrasting against the gray jumpsuit she was wearing and the blue crystalline material on her ears, hands, and arms.

“Must be the newbie my sister picked up surfaceside,” She said, looking over at me, “Name’s Selene, Captain of the PCC Boltcutter, finest non-stolen salvage ship this side of the Vairan Union. And you are?” “C-28…. Cayley, Ma’am,” I replied nervously. 

“Well, Cayley, welcome aboard my ship. Hope my sister and my engineer weren't too much. They’re… quite a pair.” “I gathered, but they seem nice enough,” I responded. “Yeah, just try living with ‘em,” She chuckled. “‘Sup sis, talkin’ about me?” Dusty said as she stepped out onto the bridge, gray metal plating with embedded green lights and black composite fabric having replaced her bulky hazmat armor. In contrast to her sister, I noticed she had green crystalline material on her instead of blue. A human woman in a black tee shirt, jeans, and a leather jacket stepped out onto the bridge behind her, probably Silver, although I hadn’t gotten a look at her face when we were still outside the ship so I couldn’t tell.

“Alright everyone, Strap in and get ready for dustoff. We’re boosting to orbit and jumping back to Union space, gotta log this and get our payout from PCC command,” Selene said, sitting down in a crash chair at her station and securing the buckles on it. Dusty and Silver followed suit, sitting down and strapping in. I stepped over to an empty chair and buckled in as well, preparing for launch. 

Selene typed in a few commands on a keyboard at her station, and the ship began to shake as a deep roar from the engines filled the air. “Engines online, fusion torch holding steady,” Silver called over the roar, “Captain, we are go for dustoff, all systems green.” “Confirmed,” Selene called back, “Brace for launch.” I turned to look at a screen in front of me showing the outside of the ship, as I was forced back into my seat by the engines kicking in, static creeping in the edges of my vision as high-G warnings popped up in red text. On screen, the sky outside went from a baleful red to black as we rocketed into orbit at breakneck speed. A second camera feed showed the planet slowly receding behind us as we accelerated away from it, before the cameras cut to black screens displaying “External Feed Disconnected - Transit Jump Imminent”.

“All hands, brace for jump to Transit,” Selene said, “Remember protocol, don’t look out portholes, don’t look at camera feeds outside the ship. And for the love of the gods, don’t get near the airlocks. Don’t want to have to scrape anyone off of a bulkhead. Remember, the critters in the Transit Corridor aren’t friendly. I know two of you know this already, but figure it’s good for our newcomer here to hear it. And because you ask every fucking time, Dusty, no, you cannot flirt with the monsters. Besides, your girlfriend is LITERALLY in the room with us.” 

“Eh, I’m chill with it, it’s funny to see her try,” replied Silver with a laugh. Glancing their way, I saw that Dusty was also laughing in her seat. “Anyways, engaging jump to the Ilveyna system in T minus 5, exit aperture set for 500,000 kilometers from Tidewall orbital. Estimated arrival in five hours.” I looked over at Selene as she pulled a lever back, the air beginning to fill with a deep rhythmic thrum as some titanic machine further into the spacecraft began to spin up. The lights flickered, as a thunder-like crackling sound boomed from outside the ship, somehow making its way to us through the void, the sound of the ship’s Transit Manifold    dumping incomprehensible amounts of energy to rip a tunnel into space itself. The ship shook violently, and the lights went out as we slipped into the abyss, the bridge illuminated only by dim orange emergency lighting. Howls of what sounded like wind and strange beasts echoed through the hull’s thick titanium plating as the ship darted unseen towards its distant destination. 

[therecordchanger62279]

Excerpt from my unpublished novel:

     I was lounging in a deck chair, nursing a cold one when I heard the shot. I’d lived in Detroit long enough to be able to distinguish a gunshot from a car backfiring. I thought it had come from the direction of the abandoned bait and tackle shop next door to the marina. The property faced the street, but there was an old, rusted chain-link fence surrounding the property, and overgrown weeds, and brush where a yard used to be. There would be a lot of cover in a place like that. You could hide almost anything – including a body.

     The marina had been quiet all evening, so I couldn’t be certain anyone else had heard the shot. But the next sounds I heard were the slam of a car door followed by a car pealing out of the gravel parking lot out front, and into the main street. I grabbed my cell, and walked over to the fence at the back of the shop. There was no way through it, so I walked around front, and entered the property from the street. The lock on the gate had been broken, but I wasn’t sure if it was always that way or if the person driving the car I’d just heard was responsible. I walked around the shop to the yard behind the building, and there near the fence in the high weeds was a body lying face down. It was the same guy I’d seen at the marina more than once taking photographs of the frolicking couple on the boat next to mine. From where he’d been standing, he’d have had a perfect view of the boat. His camera was lying next to him on the ground with the back panel open. It was empty. Whoever had shot him had also taken a roll of film with him.

I reached into the dead man’s back pocket for his wallet. There was cash and credit cards, and also a few business cards. I pulled one out, and using the flashlight on my cell I read Tracy and Associates, Milton Berry Investigator followed by a phone number, and a downtown address. I kept the card, and carefully put the wallet back in his pocket, and made an anonymous 911 call from the pay phone at the marina.

     My reporter’s instincts kicked in, and my curiosity got the best of me. I went back to the boat, retrieved my car keys, and wallet, and left the marina and headed downtown.

     Tracy and Associates occupied a small office in a building near Hourglass. It was past 11, and traffic was light. I drove around to the alley behind the building until I saw a back entrance for the office. I parked the car, and walked to the door. Just as I’d guessed, the lock had been jimmied, and the door was ajar. I nudged it open, and found myself in what must have been Berry’s office. There was a glass window looking out into the front entrance where there was a receptionist’s desk. Berry’s office had its own desk, a couple of chairs, a small table with a coffee pot, and cups, and one filing cabinet with four drawers. The second drawer lock was broken, and the drawer pried open. The files looked as if they’d been rifled. No way to tell what might be missing, but it was a good bet that whoever had broken in was also in possession of a roll of film, and a gun. Finding that file would be the top of the list for whichever homicide cop was assigned the case. I thought I’d better get out of here, and back to the marina. The cops would be on the scene by now, and since I knew much more about this than they did, I’d thought they could use some help.

© 2024

[folansstuff]

Christmas Shopping

some atticus/yana stuff based on this, which a panel that lives in my head rent free

Atticus and Illyana stood outside of the New York Fao Schwarz building, snow falling down around them. The two of them are standing in line, surrounded by children and their families waiting in line to enter the store. Illyana, decked out in one of Atticus’ large hoodies and one of the few pairs of jeans she still owned, looked genuinely excited, her hand gripping onto Atticus’ tightly. Atticus, meanwhile, looked around cautiously, every child screaming causing him to wince slightly and the cold air making his face bright red.

“It’s uh- certainly busy.” He said through gritted teeth, doing his best to not make eye contact with any of the parents in front or behind them in line. Illyana looks up at him, an eyebrow raised.

“You promised to take me. Or is Fao Schwarz too much for you, Teddy Bear?” Illyana smirked when Atticus let out a sigh, then lifted herself on her toes to press a quick kiss on his cheek. “Plus, Scott and Jean aren’t here this time, so you don’t even have to act like a weirdo.”

Atticus scoffed. “I did not act like a weirdo.”

“Atti, Scott asked how you were doing and you started rambling about the history of Christmas carols.”

Atticus paused. “Okay yeah that’s fair." He shrugged, Illyana rolling her eyes and chuckling to herself.

The duo eventually moved through the line, purposefully ignoring the overly-enthusiastic performer besides the front door, Illyana even briefly glaring at him when he tried to speak to them. Illyana almost instantly ran up the stairwell towards the stuffed animals, pushing parents and children out of the way and climbing the stairs, dissapearing from view. This left Atticus awkwardly shuffling between bodies, leaning over slightly to grab a basket with a sheepish smile to one of the mothers who Illyana pushed past. He followed her up the stairs, not wanting to lose her in the crowd. 

He found her in front of the stuffed animals, surrounded by aisles and aisles of bears and horses and other fancy animals. Illyana was staring intently up at a large bear with a pair of glasses on, and was already holding several other animals. Atticus smirked and approached her, wrapping an arm around her. Illyana quickly steps forward, shoving the other stuffed animals into the basket and reached up, only just barely missing the leg of the bear.

“Fuck.” She hissed. Atticus stepped forward, leaning over and reaching for the bear himself. He did slightly better, but couldn’t get a good grip.

“Oh wow, that’s high up there.” He said, scratching at his beard and readjusting his glasses. 

“It’s bullshit. Why would they put these up so high?”

“I mean,” Atticus mumbled, “you are kinda-“ Illyana turned her head, a comical glare on her face. Atticus grinned and shrugged. “Sorry."

The two kept trying, neither of them able to get a proper grip on the bear. Atticus is sure that several parents and children have filmed them at some point, two grown adults mumbling to themselves and failing to grab a bear. Eventually, right before Illyana makes a poor choice to try and teleport up to get it, an employee walked up to them. 

“Can I help you to with anything?” They said, their tone nice and professional.

“I want that bear.” Illyana said, pointing up at her prize. The employee followed her finger, then sighed. They offered to get a ladder, and when they returned with it and started to climb, they looked down at the couple with a grin.

“So,” the employee said, grabbing Illyana’s bear, “you getting these for the kids?”

Atticus’ face went bright red, stuttering and twitching awkwardly. “Wh- Uh- No, we don’t have uh-“

“It’s for me. They’re all for me. And Beastie, I suppose.” Illyana finished, looking at her partner and rolling her eyes. “Isn’t that right, darling?”

“Uh-“ Atticus readjusted his glasses (again) and gave a sheepish smile, “Yeah. Yana loves them.”

The employee looked between them, clearly confused. Ultimately they shrugged, and handed Illyana the bear, who looked at it with a shocking amount of warmth. “Alright, that’s cool. Just run by the counter when you’re done. Merry Christmas!” 

Illyana felt the bear softly, her fingers running along the rims of the glasses. She glanced up at Atticus, who was looking around at the other people shopping, and held the bear up besides his head.  “Looks like you.” She said, placing a finger on his glasses, “Glasses, hairy…” She dropped her hand down to his stomach and poked it, earning her a sigh, “Soft. It’s perfect.” Atticus rolled his eyes, and picked up their shopping basket off the ground and grabbed her hand with his free hand. 

“Okay well, that's… flattering? Let’s just get out of here before we get crushed by more children.” The two checked out and exited the store, Illyana holding refusing to admit how much she liked her new bears, and Atticus dreading how much money they’d just spent. The bespectacled bear, called ‘Bearri’ by Illyana and others, found a prime spot on a mantle in their living room, the others being devoured by Beastie as “tributes.” They were happy to call it a success. 

[profile-234]

The Best Home Remodeling Ideas for Mountain View Properties

Mountain View properties offer a unique charm that can be enhanced through thoughtful home remodeling. The goal is to blend functionality with the beauty of the landscape, creating spaces that not only make the most of those stunning views but also fit seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Here are some of the best home remodeling ideas for Mountain View properties that can elevate your living experience.

1. Maximize Views with Large Windows

The most obvious way to enhance a Mountain View property is by installing large windows or even floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Expansive windows allow you to bring the outdoors inside, capturing breathtaking vistas without sacrificing comfort. Consider framing windows in key areas like the living room, kitchen, and master bedroom, so you can enjoy the beauty of the landscape from multiple angles. Sliding glass doors leading to a deck or balcony can also create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

2. Open-Concept Living Areas

Open-concept living is perfect for Mountain View homes because it removes barriers, allowing you to experience panoramic views while maintaining an airy and spacious feel. Knocking down unnecessary walls between the kitchen, dining, and living areas creates a more connected flow, giving your home a modern and expansive vibe. With fewer walls, you’ll also benefit from more natural light, making the space feel even more inviting.

3. Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor living is an essential feature in any Mountain View property. Whether it’s a patio, deck, or a balcony, these areas can be the perfect place to relax while taking in the scenic surroundings. A well-designed outdoor space with comfortable furniture, a fire pit, and ambient lighting can make your property feel like a year-round retreat. You can even create a multi-level deck to optimize views from various points on the property.

4. Use Natural Materials

When remodeling your Mountain View home, incorporate natural materials like stone, wood, and metal. These elements help to blend the home with its natural surroundings. A stone fireplace, wooden beams in the ceiling, or a natural stone accent wall can add warmth and texture to your space, making it feel cozy and connected to the outdoors. Wood floors and wooden cabinetry also bring a rustic, natural appeal that suits the landscape.

5. Modernizing the Kitchen and Bathrooms

The kitchen and bathrooms are key areas to focus on when remodeling any home. In a Mountain View property, these spaces can be both functional and stylish. Consider installing modern appliances, sleek countertops like quartz or granite, and custom cabinetry to elevate the space. In the bathrooms, add luxury features such as a freestanding soaking tub, a rainfall showerhead, or heated floors. By upgrading these spaces, you enhance both the usability and aesthetic appeal of your home.

6. Energy-Efficient Design

In a region surrounded by nature, it’s important to consider sustainability and energy efficiency in your remodel. High-efficiency windows and insulation can help maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year, reducing energy costs. Solar panels and geothermal heating systems are also great additions for homes in Mountain View properties, ensuring that you’re living sustainably without compromising on modern conveniences.

7. Basement or Attic Conversions

If you’re looking to increase living space, consider converting your basement or attic into a usable area. A finished basement can become a family room, home theater, or guest suite, while an attic conversion might give you the perfect place for a home office or additional bedrooms. These spaces can be a great way to maximize your property’s square footage while also ensuring you have functional, comfortable rooms for your family or guests.

Best Remodeling Service: Atlantic Builders WY

When it comes to remodeling your Mountain View property in Jackson, WY, one of the best services you can turn to is Atlantic Builders WY. They are known for their expertise in home remodeling, offering a variety of services that can transform your space to match your vision. Whether you're looking to install large windows that highlight those magnificent views or upgrade your kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances, Atlantic Builders WY has the experience and skill to bring your ideas to life.

Their team understands the unique needs of Mountain View properties, and they can guide you through every step of the remodeling process, from design to construction. They use only high-quality materials and ensure that the final result is both beautiful and functional. With their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction, Atlantic Builders WY is a trusted name in home remodeling in Jackson, WY.

Final Thoughts

Remodeling a Mountain View property isn’t just about improving aesthetics—it’s about enhancing the lifestyle that comes with living in such a stunning location. From maximizing the views to creating seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, there are endless possibilities to make your home truly special. With the help of an experienced remodeling service like Atlantic Builders WY, you can turn your dream home into a reality while making the most of the breathtaking landscape around you.

[meaganjimboomba]

What Are the Most Popular Features in Houses for Sale in Flagstone?

When looking at houses for sale in Flagstone, potential buyers are often drawn to specific features that not only enhance the living experience but also offer long-term value. Flagstone, known for its tranquil suburban feel and picturesque surroundings, has seen a steady demand for homes that offer a variety of modern amenities. Understanding the popular features in houses for sale in Flagstone can help you make an informed decision, whether you're looking for a home to live in or invest in.

Spacious Living Areas

One of the top features sought after in houses for sale in Flagstone is spacious living areas. Homebuyers are increasingly looking for open floor plans that allow for easy flow between the kitchen, dining, and living rooms. These layouts create a welcoming and versatile space perfect for entertaining guests, family gatherings, or relaxing at home. The desire for larger, more open spaces has become a significant trend in homes across Flagstone.

Modern Kitchens

The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home, and in houses for sale in Flagstone, modern kitchens are an essential feature. Buyers are attracted to kitchens that offer high-end appliances, ample storage, and sleek, contemporary designs. Features like stone countertops, large kitchen islands, and energy-efficient appliances are in high demand. A modern kitchen adds both aesthetic value and practicality, making it an essential consideration for many homebuyers.

Outdoor Living Spaces

Flagstone’s natural beauty makes outdoor living spaces highly desirable. Many houses for sale in Flagstone include patios, balconies, or decks where homeowners can enjoy the surrounding environment. Whether it’s a landscaped garden, a built-in BBQ area, or a poolside retreat, these outdoor spaces extend the living area of the home and provide a great space for relaxation or entertainment. This trend is especially popular for buyers with families or those who enjoy hosting gatherings.

Energy-Efficiency Features

In today’s market, energy-efficient homes are in high demand. Potential buyers of houses for sale in Flagstone are often looking for homes with energy-saving features that reduce both the environmental impact and utility costs. Solar panels, smart thermostats, energy-efficient windows, and insulated walls are just a few examples of features that buyers appreciate. These energy-efficient upgrades are an investment that not only provides savings over time but also increases the overall appeal of a property.

Large Backyards

Having a spacious backyard is one of the key selling points in houses for sale in Flagstone. Many buyers are drawn to homes with large yards that offer space for children to play, pets to roam, or the opportunity to garden. The demand for expansive outdoor spaces continues to grow, with many homeowners opting for large backyards to enhance their lifestyle. Whether for recreational use or future landscaping projects, large yards provide endless possibilities for personalization and enjoyment.

Master Suites with Walk-In Closets

Another sought-after feature in houses for sale in Flagstone is the master suite. Homebuyers often prioritize spacious master bedrooms that offer comfort and privacy. A key component of the master suite is the walk-in closet. Many buyers are looking for ample storage space in their bedrooms, and a walk-in closet offers just that. Coupled with an en-suite bathroom, these features create a luxurious and functional retreat within the home.

Contemporary Bathrooms

Modern, well-designed bathrooms are increasingly becoming a focal point in houses for sale in Flagstone. Buyers are looking for features such as double vanities, freestanding bathtubs, frameless glass showers, and high-quality finishes. A stylish, functional bathroom can elevate the appeal of any home. Homeowners are also drawn to bathrooms with plenty of natural light and ventilation, making it a space that is both relaxing and efficient.

Storage Solutions

Storage space is a practical consideration that can make a big difference when searching for houses for sale in Flagstone. Properties with additional storage, whether through built-in shelving, attic space, or a spacious garage, are highly valued. Many homebuyers seek homes that have clever storage solutions that help them stay organized without sacrificing valuable living space.

Proximity to Amenities and Transport

Another factor that drives demand for houses for sale in Flagstone is location. While the suburb offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, many buyers also desire easy access to essential amenities such as schools, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities. Proximity to public transportation and major roads also plays a significant role. Buyers are keen on homes that offer convenience and a short commute to work or other essential locations.

Security Features

Security is a top priority for many homebuyers. As a result, houses for sale in Flagstone often feature security systems such as alarm systems, CCTV cameras, and secure gates. In addition to physical security features, many homes also include smart technology, allowing homeowners to monitor their property remotely through smartphone apps or home automation systems.

Low Maintenance Materials

With busy lifestyles, many buyers are looking for homes that require minimal upkeep. In houses for sale in Flagstone, low-maintenance materials are often featured, especially in areas like exterior finishes and flooring. Buyers appreciate homes with weather-resistant siding, composite decking, and durable flooring materials like tiles or polished concrete. These materials not only save time and effort but also ensure the property remains looking great for years to come.

Final Thoughts

When exploring houses for sale in Flagstone, it’s clear that buyers are looking for modern, functional homes with a range of desirable features. Spacious living areas, modern kitchens, and energy-efficient systems top the list, alongside attractive outdoor spaces and large backyards. As the demand for homes in Flagstone continues to grow, these popular features will remain key factors in influencing buyer decisions.

Whether you’re looking for a family home or an investment property, understanding what makes a house in Flagstone desirable can help you make an informed choice. With its scenic views and family-friendly atmosphere, Flagstone remains an excellent place to live and invest.

[gfs-tanks]

Color Customized Glass-Fused-to-Steel Tanks: Scalable Storage Solutions for Your Unique Needs

Color Customized Glass-Fused-to-Steel Tanks: Scalable Storage Solutions for Your Unique Needs

At Shijiazhuang Zhengzhong Technology Co., Ltd. (Center Enamel), we pride ourselves on offering innovative, durable, and visually customizable storage solutions for a wide range of applications. Our Glass-Fused-to-Steel (GFS) tanks are not only built to last but can also be tailored in color and capacity to meet the specific requirements of your project, ensuring both functional and aesthetic excellence.

One of the standout features of our GFS tanks is their ability to have their volume expanded in response to growing storage needs, making them a future-proof investment for industries such as municipal water storage, wastewater treatment, agriculture, and energy.

As a leading storage tank manufacturer in China. At Shijiazhuang Zhengzhong Technology Co., Ltd., we excel in providing high-quality bolted steel tanks tailored for the diverse needs of fish farming. Our extensive range of bolted steel tanks includes Glass-Fused-to-Steel (GFS) tanks, fusion bonded epoxy tanks, stainless steel tanks, and galvanized steel tanks, each designed to offer exceptional durability, efficiency, and adaptability for aquaculture applications.

Configuration of Customized Storage Tanks

Storage tanks

Volume

Roofs

Application

Design Requirements

GFS Tanks

SS Tanks

Fusion Bonded Epoxy Tanks

Galvanized Steel Tanks

Welded Steel Tanks

<1000m³

1000-10000m³

10000-20000m³

20000-25000m³

>25000m³

ADR Roof

GFS Roof

Membrane Roof

FRP Roof

Trough Deck Roof

Wastewater Treatment Project

Drinking Water Project

Municipal Sewage Project

Biogas Project

Fire Water Storage Project

Oil Storage Project

Water Supply & Drainage System

Seismic Design

Wind Resistant Design

Lightning Protection Design

Tank Insulation Design

WasteWater Treatment Project Equipment Supply

Pretreatment Equipment

Resource Utilization System

Sludge Treatment System

Other Equipment

Mechanical Bar Screen

Solid-liquid Separator

Submersible Mixer

Gas Holder

Boiler System

Boost Fan

Biogas Generator

Torch System

Dehydration and Desulfurization Tank

PAM Integration Dosing Device

Screw Sludge Dewatering Machine

Slurry Separation Centrifuge

Sewage Pump

Mud Scraper

Submersible Sewage Pump

Three-phases Separator

Advantages of Color Customization

1.1 Aesthetic Integration

Our GFS tanks are available in a range of colors to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment or match your organization’s branding. Whether you need a tank that complements a natural landscape or aligns with the colors of an industrial site, we can deliver.

1.2 Enhanced Identification

Color customization can also be functional, enabling easy identification of tanks based on their stored content. For example:

Blue for potable water

Green for wastewater

Yellow for agricultural use

1.3 Weather-Resistant Coating

The colored Glass-Fused-to-Steel coating is not only UV-resistant but also non-fading, maintaining the tank's appearance even under harsh environmental conditions.

Volume Expansion: Scalable Storage for Future Growth

One of the key benefits of our GFS tanks is their bolted modular design, which allows for easy volume expansion without requiring extensive reconstruction.

2.1 Flexible Upgrades

If your storage needs grow, additional tank panels can be added to increase the tank's height and capacity. This ensures that your initial investment remains valuable as your operations scale.

2.2 Cost-Effective Solution

Expanding the volume of a bolted GFS tank is significantly more affordable and faster than constructing a new tank or replacing existing infrastructure.

2.3 Minimal Disruption

The expansion process is efficient and causes minimal disruption to ongoing operations, ensuring you maintain productivity while increasing your storage capabilities.

Superior Performance of Glass-Fused-to-Steel Tanks

Our GFS tanks are designed for high durability, low maintenance, and extended service life of over 30 years. Key performance benefits include:

3.1 Corrosion Resistance

The glass coating on the steel panels provides superior resistance to chemical corrosion, making these tanks suitable for storing potable water, industrial effluents, and hazardous chemicals.

3.2 Leak-Proof Design

Sealed with high-performance gaskets and precision-engineered bolts, our tanks ensure leak-free performance, safeguarding the stored material and the surrounding environment.

3.3 Global Standards Compliance

Our tanks meet or exceed international standards such as:

AWWA D103

ISO 28765

NSF/ANSI 61

Applications Across Industries

4.1 Municipal and Industrial Water Storage

Customized GFS tanks are ideal for storing potable and non-potable water, with the ability to expand capacity as population or industrial demands increase.

4.2 Wastewater Treatment

The chemical resistance and scalability of GFS tanks make them perfect for wastewater storage and treatment applications, especially in rapidly growing urban or industrial areas.

4.3 Renewable Energy Projects

Our tanks are commonly used for biogas storage and anaerobic digestion systems, where both functionality and appearance matter.

4.4 Agriculture and Food Processing

GFS tanks provide reliable storage for irrigation water, grain, and other agricultural products. Their expandable design accommodates seasonal or long-term storage requirements.

Why Choose Center Enamel for Your GFS Tank?

5.1 Industry Leadership

We are the first company in China to manufacture Glass-Fused-to-Steel tanks and the most experienced bolted tank manufacturer in Asia, with a proven track record of supplying tanks to over 100 countries.

5.2 Customized Solutions

From color selection to volume expansion, we offer fully tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of your project.

5.3 Comprehensive Support

Our team provides end-to-end services, including design, manufacturing, on-site installation, and after-sales support, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Get Started with Center Enamel Today

Whether you need a tank for drinking water storage, wastewater treatment, or agricultural use, Center Enamel’s Glass-Fused-to-Steel tanks offer the perfect combination of durability, customizability, and scalability.

Contact us today to learn more about our color-customized and volume-expandable GFS tanks. Let us help you create a storage solution that meets your current needs while preparing for future growth.