#my friend made a button pin for me that says 'no.1 9 fan' and i love it

[byooregard]

other fun thing i keep saying to my friends while watching doctor who is going 'you know i'm fascinated by the ten to eleven pipeline' (sometimes its nine to ten to eleven but yk how it is) because they know what i mean and i know what i mean but it really does sound like i've just discovered counting

[thebiasrekkers]

Make It Right [BTS Mafia!AU]

Plot: “It’s always darkest before the dawn…” It’s a dog-eat-dog world in Seoul, South Korea. One has to dwell in the shadows in order to reach for the light. What are you willing to sacrifice in order to feel the sunlight on your face? What will it take to drag you back into darkness? How long will the journey be to make it right?

Rating: NC-17 // NSFW

Genre: Series | Mafia!AU | Crime!AU | Angst | Romance/Fluff | Smut

Pairings: Jin x OC | Taehyung/Hoseok x OC | Yoongi/Jungkook x OC

Warnings: Graphic Violence, Heavy Language, Angst, Slow Burn, Smut

Previous Chapters: Prologue 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39

Links: FAQ || BTS Masterlist || Admin E’s AO3 || Admin E’s WP || [ REQUESTS ARE OPEN ]

Word Count: 3,006

Tag List: @prisczero​, @pinkpjmin​, @btsaudge​, @flowerwrites06​, @unoriginal-username15432, @halussali​

Chapter 39: Not Today

“Today we’ll never die. The light will pierce through the darkness.”

© thebiasrekkers (Admin E). All rights reserved. Reposting/modifying our work is prohibited. Translations are not allowed. Plagiarism/stealing is not tolerated by any means. Legal action will be taken in instances of theft.

Seoul – Myeongdong; Jung District South Korea

It was the calm before the storm.

Hoseok could feel it in his bones to the point where he swore that they creaked with each step he took. He barely heard what Namjoon was telling him as they approached the large building in downtown Myeongdong. He wasn’t sure if he was trying to convince him to change his mind; to postpone this meeting for another day. Or if it was something else entirely. Hoseok was only vaguely aware of the noises on the streets as they passed pedestrians on the path to their destination.

There was too much simmering beneath the surface for him to focus on anything outside of reaching his destination.

When he’d received the call from Taehyung a couple of days ago, Hoseok knew it was time for him to make his move. Yoongi falling ill and being hospitalized, even for a day, should have been the metaphorical straw that broke the camel’s back. Truth be told, Hoseok was in and out of meetings for most of the days during the week and had little time to spare outside of his business practices. Things were starting to look good. Things were finally beginning to take a positive turn, just as they planned.

Even with the instances that the Jade Fangs did show up, they were minor inconveniences at most. Hoseok was made aware of the slight against Eden, Jungkook’s girlfriend. He offered to have her monitored, but at Jungkook’s behest, he didn’t follow through. Eden was apparently a woman who valued her personal life and her privacy. The last thing she wanted was anyone shadowing her unnecessarily, even if it was for her own protection. From what he was told, Eden was also a woman who could more than handle herself if it came to a rough and tumble fight.

Hoseok did not pull his eyes back from Raelyn, even if she was seeing Taehyung now. There was always the chance that something could happen and at a moment when everyone least expected it. If she were ever made aware of it, he would apologize for it later. In this case, it was better to ask for forgiveness than to ask for permission.

Old habits die hard, as they say…

Feet shuffled to a halt as he stood in front of the large building, Namjoon at his side. The two of them looked up at the high-rise, the sun already sinking beyond the horizon and down below the tree lines. The twilight hour was upon them and the world was still just as busy buzzing with life. As it would continue to do for many days to come.

Clearing his throat, he began to move forward – approaching the sliding glass doors. “Let’s go,” he said just as the doors opened to grant them entrance.

Two security guards approached them from either side, causing the two men to stop in the main lobby. Hoseok lofted a brow at each of them and Namjoon shuffled just a little bit closer to him. His tan trench coat hung off his shoulders while he stuffed his hands into the pockets of his pin-striped slacks. Lifting one hand from the pocket, he undid the button on the matching suit jacket as he slid his aviators off his face.

“Im Changkyun is expecting me,” came his even reply as he put the shades into the inner pocket of his jacket, “so be good boys and step aside.”

Hoseok didn’t bother hiding his irritation. He wanted it known that this wasn’t some pleasant little business meeting or a check-in visit. This was nothing of the sort.

This…was personal.

A phone rang at the secretary’s desk, snapping her out of her momentary trance at the small incident that was stirring in the lobby. The two security guards continued to block Hoseok’s path, but then the woman quickly stood from her seat and bowed before hanging up the phone. She clapped her hands to get the guards’ attention.

“Chairman Im said to let them through.”

The guards stood there a little while longer before finally stepping to the side, giving both Hoseok and Namjoon a clear path. They approached the desk where the young woman handed Hoseok a keycard. She bowed in apologies before pointing to the corridor off to the right.

“If you take that hallway, there are sets of elevators. The key card will give you access to the Chairman’s office on the top floor.”

Hoseok flashed her a polite grin, waving the card at her clamped between his fingers. “Thank you.”

And without so much as a second glance, he began heading toward the hallway. Namjoon followed behind him, making sure that the two security guards weren’t intent on doing something stupid. Hoseok didn’t see his friend visibly relax until they were alone in the elevator.

He slid the keycard through the card reader, waiting for the elevator to begin lifting them from the ground floor. When it jerked slightly upon its initial ascent was when Namjoon finally spoke.

“Hoseok-ah? Do you think—”

“Don’t, Namjoon-ah,” he interrupted, staring ahead at their muddied reflections on the elevator’s stainless-steel doors, “not now.”

“We didn’t even discuss this with the others.”

There was concern in Namjoon’s voice, which was well-warranted. It was rare for Hoseok to go rogue. When he did, it was usually something small. He never made moves like this without discussing it with the others first. Seokjin always made it a point to ensure that everyone was on the same page so that none of them could get blind-sided. Strategizing and prioritizing situations before others was what helped the Golden Jackals climb up the ladder of success so quickly. Impulsivity had no place in their lives back then and it shouldn’t have now.

However, this time, Hoseok wanted to be selfish. He’d earned the right to be selfish. He deserved and had every right to be as livid as he was at that moment. Anyone who tried to tell him otherwise was delusional.

“This doesn’t concern them right now.” He cast a sidelong glance to Namjoon, brows furrowing deeply. “Honestly, I don’t even like that you’re with me. You should have stayed in the car like I told you to.”

Namjoon blinked at him, clearly jarred by his words. Or that he’d suddenly grown a second head. “You thought you’d just waltz into Im Changkyun’s business office alone, huh?” He snorted. “Yeah, no. Jin Hyung would have my head and I’m a pretty big fan of it staying attached to my neck.”

Hoseok grinned. “That’s not like you, Namjoon-ah. You’re usually the first one to show your guts.”

“Yeah, well that was then. This is now.”

The elevator dinged softly as they reached their destination. The steel doors slid open slowly, revealing a long hallway with a black and red carpet leading from the elevator to a pair of double doors at the very end of the long stretch. There was someone standing just outside the door, but they were too far away to be made out easily.

Hoseok stepped out and strode forward, Namjoon matching his pace. The closer they got to the end of the hallway, the more the person’s face standing just outside the door came into view. When they were only a couple of yards away, they could now tell it was Shownu. He looked between the two of them, a satisfied smirk etching his features. Hoseok peered up at the man who was older and slightly taller than him. His image from five years ago overlapped his current one and a phantom ache throbbed at Hoseok’s side from when he’d been kicked by the man in the rainstorm.

Shownu politely stood away from the door, gesturing toward it. “He’s waiting for you, Jung Hoseok.”

He nodded, casting his gaze over toward Namjoon. “Wait here.”

Namjoon looked like he was about to protest, but then Shownu placed a hand on his friend’s shoulder. “Let’s get a drink, hm? I’m sure they’re going to have a lot to discuss.”

Again, Namjoon looked reticent. But Hoseok nodded, his earlier expression dissolving into a softer one. He saw his friend blink in surprise. He could only imagine what his face looked like, but it probably reflected an old version of himself he hadn’t shown in quite some time. After a moment, he watched Namjoon sigh before nodding.

“If you need anything, call me.”

Hoseok nodded again. “I will.”

He waited, watching the two men make their way back down the hall. Shownu turned off to the left, entering a room and Namjoon followed. But not before he met his gaze one more time. Hoseok took a breath, promising to apologize to Namjoon later, and opened the doors.

The interior of the office was what Hoseok would have expected. Pristine. Clean. Modern. There was the traditional name plate sitting on top of a black polished desk made of expensive and imported wood. The marbling on the floor was flawless and the furniture held a business design with sectionals surrounding a glass and metal coffee table. Elegant art pieces decorated the walls and off to the right was a large window that overlooked the entire downtown area of Myeongdong from hundreds of feet in the air. A wet bar was situated near the small nook near the back.

Hoseok wasn’t impressed, however. This was to be expected of Im Changkyun, the Wolf of the Jade Fangs. He hadn’t climbed up in the ranks and obtained his title of “leader” if he wasn’t capable of this level of eloquence and prestige. His ambition suited his taste in decorating.

Instead of stepping further inside, he remained near the entrance as the doors closed behind him. Changkyun was seated at his desk, immersed in a book of some sort. The computer monitor was situated, visually, to Hoseok’s right. When their eyes met, Hoseok didn’t smile even though Changkyun did.

“Oh, Hoseok Hyung,” he said, closing the book and sliding it just to the side of him, “welcome. I’ll admit, I was a little surprised when I received your call. It’s not often you take the time to come visit me.”

Hoseok heard the bitter edge to the statement but made no effort to acknowledge it. He gave a slight shrug, remaining where he was until he saw Changkyun slowly rising from his plush leather chair. The wheels shifted along the marble floor and it was in that moment that Hoseok reached behind him to turn the deadbolt on the door – synchronizing it to match the sound of the chair’s movements.

“Your boys have been paying mine little visits here and there,” he said, stepping away from the door, “I figured that I should return the favor.”

Changkyun flashed an open-mouthed grin. “Ah, yes. Yes, they have.” He reached up to brush his dark hair out of his eyes. “Is that the reason for this, Hyung? Are the boys getting in your way?”

Hoseok scoffed. “Hardly.”

“Hmm, well that’s no good. I was hoping that was why.”

Slowly, Hoseok made his way to the left of the sectionals in the center of the office. “Because?”

“Because I’m still trying to figure you out, Hyung. I have questions and you haven’t answered them all yet.”

Changkyun’s words didn’t match his expression. Instead of looking inquisitive, he had the look of a man who appeared to have already won the game. It was a look that Hoseok remembered from many years ago – before the Golden Jackals were formed. Before they truly began to understand what the criminal underworld really looked like.

Before Im Changkyun killed the previous leader of the Jade Fangs in cold blood.

“Then let me give them to you.”

Hoseok’s body moved in a blur – matching the speed of his youth which was fueled by his anger alone. He knew he wasn’t in his twenties anymore. He hadn’t been fighting every day like he had years ago when his brothers and he first arrived in Seoul. Their lives were harder, but they were much simpler back then. When they were happier and driven to reach a future they could all obtain together.

He tapped into that feeling and rushed Changkyun’s desk – his trench coat flying off his shoulders and landing on the ground just as he went airborne. Just like that rainy night five years ago, during the gang war on the streets of Gangnam, he watched Changkyun’s smug look melt away as sudden realization washed over him instead. Hoseok cleared the chair at the head of the coffee table and landed on Changkyun’s desk in a crouch.

Jerking his right arm, the switch blade slid from the sleeve of his jacket and landed in his hand. He flicked the blade free, aiming straight for Changkyun’s neck. However, he knew that this wouldn’t be enough for the leader of the Jade Fangs. There was a reason he’d earned the nickname Wolf all those years ago. And it was because of his primal instincts.

Those very instincts came into play as he reached up to catch Hoseok’s wrist. Changkyun tried to pull his arm away from his body, attempting to keep the blade as far from his neck as possible. But just like Changkyun earned his moniker, so had Hoseok. The Death Claw didn’t back down from a fight because he’d looked The Grim Reaper in his face and spit in it.

Hoseok used his free hand to grab at his wrist, fingers locking over Changkyun’s and then pushing his weight forward. What distance was gained was soon minimized as Hoseok leaned in, the tip of the knife moving up and casting a shadow over Changkyun’s face. If he wouldn’t let him take his throat, he would jam the blade straight into his eye socket.

“H-Hyung,” growled Changkyun through clenched teeth as he glared up at Hoseok, “what do you think you’re doing?”

He could feel his arms trembling with the amount of force he was exerting. Changkyun was putting in just as much effort, causing a horrible stalemate that was on the verge of fracturing. The odds evened out as Hoseok watched him reaching up with his free hand to brace against his own wrist – mimicking each other.

“What does it look like?” Hoseok replied, his eyes narrowing darkly, “I’m answering your questions.”

He watched him blinking up at him in confusion. He was a young man Hoseok once believed to be full of potential and drive. Someone Hoseok admired years ago. Before he discovered the depth of his said ambition.

Silence stretched between them, neither of them easing off their stance or their grips. Hoseok felt a bead of sweat slip down his temple just as he saw one sliding down to drip from Changkyun’s chin. There were the occasional grunting sounds as one attempted to overpower the other, but outside of that, no words were spoken.

Changkyun finally let out a choked-out scoff, bitter disappointment evident on his features. Yet he smirked, regardless. “So, this is your answer, Hyung?”

Hoseok mirrored his gaze. “Yes, Changkyun-ah, it is.”

Something passed over the younger man’s face. But it was so brief, Hoseok couldn’t place it. At least not then.

“That’s a shame, Hoseok Hyung. A real shame.” He let out a shaky breath. “But if this is your answer, then I guess I have no choice but to continue the game without you.”

And then he moved faster than Hoseok could have anticipated. He released his hold and Hoseok felt all his weight collapsing forward. The blade nicked Changkyun’s cheek, but it was a sacrifice he willingly made. Hoseok realized this when he saw knuckles sailing toward his face. He pivoted in mid-air, changing his trajectory and his shoulder landed hard on the desk. Changkyun moved to elbow-drop him, but Hoseok whirled his legs into the air to block the assault, slamming his knee into Changkyun’s shoulder before rolling completely off the desk.

However, as he landed on the marble flooring, he felt pain exploding across his back and causing him to stumble forward. He quickly pivoted on his heels just as he saw Changkyun lowering his arm from where he’d had it extended – noting that his punch had, in fact, successfully connected. The two of them heaved, inhaling a lungful of air. Hoseok reached up to dab at the sweat on his brow with the back of his wrist.

A full minute passed before both men lowered their stances, silently agreeing that this discussion was at its conclusion. Hoseok turned to head toward the entrance, scooping up his trench coat along the way. Just as he made to unlatch the doors to the office, he heard Changkyun popping his neck before a breathy chuckle escaped.

“You’ve made yourself clear. So now I’m going to make myself clear.”

Pausing, Hoseok turned to look back at the leader of the Jade Fangs. But he chose to say nothing. Changkyun continued.

“What I do from this moment on, you no longer play a factor into it. What happens after today is a result of the answer you’ve given me. And I’m going to make good on it.”

Hoseok scoffed. “Is that right?” He rolled his eyes, unlatching the door. “We’re done playing this game with you. Do what you want.”

The grin that Changkyun gave him was the most wolfish he’d ever seen and it caused his spine to lock up uncomfortably, even for just a moment.

“Oh, I will. Trust me.” He folded his arms across his chest. “Just remember that it’s nothing personal, Jung Hoseok.”

Dropping the honorific was expected. Hoseok wasn’t surprised. So, instead of giving it credence, he simply exited the office and slammed the doors behind him. He needed to breathe. He needed air. So, for now, he would simply text Namjoon to come out when he was ready and that he’d be waiting in the car.

After he vomited his anger into a nearby bush somewhere.

[lokisgame]

A Generous Donation [17]

[part 1] [part 2] [part 3] [part 4] [part 5] [part 6] [part 7] [part 8] [part 9] [part 10] [part 11] [part 12][part 13] [part 14] [part 15] [part 16]

Mulder found Scully in her office, staring at slides pinned to the light box. She turned and upon seeing him, smiled wide. "What are those?" "I stole them from a guy with a broken leg down the hall," he said conspiratorially, handing her a dozen roses, "he won't be able to catch me." "Then maybe I should give them back," she teased and buried her nose in red petals, breathed in, her eyes falling shut for a second. "Don't you dare," Mulder smiled and leaned in for a kiss. "Hello, Doc." "Hi," she kissed him back. "What's the occasion?" "I'm taking you out." "Out? Where?" "To dinner," he said, doubling back for her coat. "It's been a while." "But I'm not dressed right, and I'm supposed to visit Will." "You look perfect and I already spoke to Will, he's fine, he loves you and he hopes we'll have fun." "So it's dinner and fun?" "Sort of fun." 

"Just so you know, I don't do ice skating." "Oh dear, no," he laughed and held out the coat, "can we go? Or do you want to finish something here first? I can wait." "No, we can go," she said turning, and glancing at the roses again, "I'm just worried about these." She slipped her arms inside the sleeves, juggling the bouquet as she did. "If they die, which is unlikely," he said, pulling her into his arms, "I'll get you two dozen more." "You spoil me rotten." "It's about time, ‘cause you're worth it." "Alright, you old smoothie," she laughed, freeing herself and linking their arms, "now feed me, I'm famished."

Scully took in the long counter, tall bar stools, fogged up windows and the cooking that was happening right before the patrons. Long strings of noodles sprang out from steaming pots to the rhythm of chopping the vegetables. The place smelled delicious, still, she felt like teasing him a little. "So this your idea of fancy, ramen?" "I didn't say it's going to be fancy," he grinned stirring his soup. "You said you were hungry, eat up." "All the roses, the surprise, I just thought." She shook her head, amused, picking a piece of grilled chicken from the broth. Mulder looked up, doubt creeping into his eyes. "You don't like it?" He asked, but she already tasted the food and smiling, went for more. "Oh, okay," he said and went back to his food as well. "I picked this place because it's the closest to where we're heading next." "Which is?" Scully asked and Mulder grinned around a mouthful of beef, so she answered for him. "Another surprise." He shrugged and nodded. "If this is some monster hunt, I swear." He swallowed fast, put his arms around her and kissed her cheek. "It's not, stop worrying." "So stop being so cryptic." Mulder laughed, squeezing a kiss between her shoulder and neck just to make her laugh. "Now where's the fun in that." He took a sip of his beer and picked up his chopsticks again. "So, how was your day?" So between slurping and laughing, she told him.

"You still haven't explained the car," she said, pulling on her leather gloves before leaving the restaurant. "What happened to the Ford?" Mulder opened the door for her. "Nothing, but we need something bigger for tonight so I borrowed the bus from a friend." "Your friend is a fan of classic cars?" "Classic, Frohike would kiss you for that," he laughed following her out, "not that I'd let him." "Where to next?" She asked, talking his hand. "You don't recognize these parts?" She looked around as they crossed the street. The wind changed, carrying voices and the scent of cinnamon and pine. Scully laughed. "No! How did you know?" Mulder grinned and put his arm around her. "Charlie suggested it." They followed the chain link fence towards the twinkling lights and music, to buy their first Christmas tree.

Scully sipped mulled wine from a plastic cup following Mulder until he stopped by a spruce, almost a foot taller than him. "Okay, what do you think about this one?" "I'm not sure it will fit into my living room," she said grinning. "How about mine?" "I thought you didn't do Christmas." "I feel exceptionally festive this year." He took a step back to examine the tree from afar and Scully leaned into his side, putting one arm around his waist. "If it's for me, you don't have to do this." "Isn't the tree a vital part of the Christmas spirit?" "No, it's about sharing love and spreading kindness and generosity." She looked up and smiled even brighter, "Come to think of it, you could be my Christmas tree." Mulder laughed, kissing the cold tip of her nose. "As long as you don't try to wrap me in Christmas lights." "Do you even have Christmas lights?" "Nope, I was counting on you to help me with that." "In that case, we've got some serious Christmas shopping to do, mister." "Okay, but what about the tree?" "It's nice, but we can do better." "So we're picking two?"   "No," she pushed her hand under his arm and pulled him along, "we'll only need one."

Once they wrestled the tree inside Mulder's front door and decided on the spot, a little to the side from the fireplace with a nice view from the couch, Scully went about making hot chocolate, leaving Mulder in the living room, looking at the tree. "You think there are spiders in it?" "Don't tell me you're afraid of spiders." "It's not that I'm afraid, I'm just not a huge fan of bugs." He said and went to join her. "What could an itty-bitty spider do to a big guy like you?" "You know about venomous spiders, right?" "In Massachusetts?" "Isn't there anything you're scared of?" "Once you have a kid, everything scares you," she said over a little pot sitting on the smallest burner, "stairs, power sockets, knives, scissors left lying around. Either you learn to live with that fear or suffocate your kid trying to protect him from anything and everything." Mulder wrapped his arms around her waist, chin resting on the top of her head. "You did a good job, raising our kid to be brave." "I think he hides a lot of his fears behind humor." "Better that than violence," he sighed and began nibbling kisses over the side of her neck, "another point for you. Anyone ever told you you're awesome?" "You?" She giggled, tilting her chin and leaning into his lips, but her next words came wistful. "I wish you could have been there with me." "I'm here now," he murmured against her earlobe, "and we've got all the time in the world." He kissed her cheek, before catching her lips, then reached into the cupboard and took out a bottle of Jameson. Mulder liked his hot chocolate Irish.

They got two strings of rainbow colored lights and two boxes of ornaments. Scully ripped the packaging, unwound couple of feet from the knot and handed the loose end to Mulder keeping the rest to herself. "We'll start from the top and work our way down around the tree," she instructed. Mulder nodded and set his mug on the mantle. He took the cord, reached up and paused by the highest branch, looking over his shoulder. "Here?" "Perfect." She smiled and followed around the tree, untangling the wire for him. "This always was Will's favorite part," she said, "even when he barely reached the lowest branches, he would hold the lights trying to help. Then as he grew, we arranged the lights together, and now it's usually him doing the hanging and me holding the wires." "And who did it for you, when both of you were too small to reach the top?" Scully poked his side and he chuckled. "I scaled down the tree to my size," she said and moved the cord he just hung, one level down. "How do you know it should go there?" Scully shrugged and handed him another yard. "Practice?" "At home we never really celebrated anything between Thanksgiving and New Years," Mulder said taking the second set of lights and starting again, at the top. "Not Hanukkah, not Christmas, obviously. My father was too busy, and mom, instead of making an effort for us, waited. Like his word was the law and she waited for his say-so. And then Samantha went missing and even the pretense went out the window. No more fireworks in July, no more thanksgiving. Zip." "I'm sorry." "It's okay, I guess it would be worse if we tried to force it. You can't miss what you don't know. Then I went to college and stayed at Oxford for Christmas break." "I'm almost afraid to ask." "We drank and partied and don't ask me what else, because I don't really remember. It felt good to let go for a bit." "You don't remember your first Christmas?" "We went to London, then Paris, it snowed like crazy that year." "White Christmas, nice." They made one last round around the tree and Mulder went to kill the lights, while Scully did small adjustments to the arrangement. For a moment the room was illuminated by nothing but the fire in the fireplace and then Mulder came back, knelt on the floor and plugged the lights in. She forgot how to exhale for a second or three, until he was standing behind her, arms wrapped around her waist. Leaning against his chest and feeling his chin resting on top of her head. Barefoot, she fit perfectly, head to toe, into his embrace. "Oh wow," she sighed. "Yeah, my thoughts exactly." Mulder said and leaned into her, drawing her closer to his lips on the side of her neck. "Wait till we hang all the ornaments," she murmured, but his hands were already sneaking under the edge of her sweater, working buttons on her shirt. "Ornaments can wait," he breathed and nipped at the skin just above the collar. "I can't." "It's just two boxes," she sighed, doing nothing to stop his fingers from finding the tab on the zipper of her slacks. "Wanna know a secret?" "You discovered a Christmas tree fetish?" He didn't say, but fingertips on bare skin made her jump when a caress turned into a tickle, making her squirm in his arms. Mulder pulled her tighter to himself, his hand slipping under the lace trimmed waistband of her panties. She covered his hand through the fabric and ground her hips into his touch. "Shame, because I think," he pushed two fingers inside her making her voice hitch, "I think I did." Throaty laughter filled her ear and he tugged on her earlobe, a bite soothed with a kiss. Light fractured on her eyelashes and she gave herself over to the sensations of his confident touch and erection trapped against the small of her back. Mulder held her up, one hand kneading the breast, deliciously pinching the nipple, the other pumping in and out, fingers slipping over her clitoris with each pass. It was an exquisite torture. She longed for his warmth not the heat off her clothes, the touch of his skin instead of just his hands and lips. "I want to feel you," she moaned and he pushed deep inside her almost lifting her off her feet. But it wasn't the touch that sent a new shiver up her spine, it was his word. "No," he growled flicking her nipple and pushing a third finger inside her, curling them. That one spot which usually turned her all aglow set her on fire. "Come for me first." It wasn't a plea or a promise, it was an order, one she had no choice but to obey. With his tongue and teeth on her neck, she rocked her hips into his palm and the pleasure that was building exploded from her core, pushing the breath out of her lungs in a moan and knocking her knees out from under her. If it wasn't for his arms around her, she'd collapse. Instead, Mulder lowered her to the floor by the fireplace, tugging on her pants and panties. "Breathe, Scully." He said and she breathed, watching him take off his sweater and t-shirt, the flex of muscles and arch of his back as he knelt between her thighs. Light played on his skin, the fire behind him, the Christmas lights above her and his smile when he let his hands glide up her thighs and over hips, to the edge of her sweater and blouse. He pulled and she arched her back, but when the clothes passed her head, he paused leaving her hands trapped inside the sleeves. Scully tried to free herself, but he caught her wrists, pinning them over her head. "Leave it," he said, catching her lips in a light kiss. Nibbling on her parted mouth he traced his fingers down the inside of her arms. He grazed the delicate skin, fingernails turning tickles into shivers, past the sensitive crooks of her elbows, upper arms and armpits. His lips followed over her throat, the hollow at the base and down her sternum, until they met his hands, cupping both breasts and squeezing through the soft lace and he buried his face between them. She gasped and arched into his touch. Never had she surrendered herself so freely, following without a word his soft-spoken commands. Was it because she trusted him? Was it because he had given her so much already? Or was it because she felt that him finally wanting something from her and taking it instead of asking for it, made her feel needed. He finally claimed her. Finally, they were equals. She wrapped her thighs around him and resting her feet on his hips brought him back. He unhooked her bra and latched onto her breast, sucking at her right nipple while he pinched the left. "Not yet," he murmured between kisses, on his way from the right to the left, "patience." And she didn't fight him, letting him kiss his fill. She moved beneath him, panting the lower he kissed, not holding back the moans he elicited when he draped her thighs over his shoulders and opened her up again with his tongue and fingers. Licking inside and outside, he teased her mercilessly, bringing her to the edge, watching her pull on the makeshift restraints, with her back arched off the floor and her breath coming in gasps, just to stop and start all over again. She was lost in sensation when she finally felt him shift, the back of her thighs against his chest, sudden kisses on her calves beckoning her back. She was almost bent in half beneath him, trapped between his thighs and arms as he hovered over her. Mulder waited till her eyes focused on him, until she felt the tip of his cock poised at the entrance of her body, and when he had her full attention he pushed inside her. Slowly, deliberately, never freeing her gaze, he started to thrust, rocking into her, his speed building as she grew wetter with each pass. Deeper and faster, as her walls gripped him tighter. Mulder shifted his balance, changed the angle and freed one hand to stroke around her clit. Sweat glistened in the light of the fire and the tree, and he gave everything he had to her expecting nothing of her but to surrender and take it and he took pleasure in her body. She came hard and didn't even try to hide it, pulling him with her over the edge, his heat filing her to the brim, and drowning out thought. Minutes or eons later, she found Mulder pulling out and rolling off her. With one hand he pried open her fingers, still clutching on the fabric of the sweater. "Say something," he whispered, pulling her arms down and massaging the life back into her fingers. "You've been holding out on me." Mulder chuckled but kept working on her hands. "Did you like it?" Scully purred and rolled onto her side, straight into his arms. "It's like Christmas came early this year, like, three times." She murmured kissing his warm skin and the chuckle turned into a laugh. "I've got nothing," he sighed and brought her hand to his lips, biting the knuckles lightly, "you blow my mind." "There's something else I'd rather blow," she said, licking her lips. "What about the tree?" "What tree?" "The Christmas tree behind you," he laughed, "the one with the spiders in it!" Scully gasped and scrambled up, scooting as far away as she could until she hit the couch with her back. Mulder stayed where he was, his body shaking with laughter and she realized he wasn't serious. On all fours she crawled back, swatting at his side as hard as she could, getting nothing more than more laugh for her trouble. She straddled his stomach and leaning in, pushed his shoulders into the hardwood floor beneath. "Not funny!" "A little funny." Digging her fingernails into his skin, she dragged them over his chest, not enough to draw blood, just to leave a bright red trace. Mulder hissed, but it was a good hiss, he grabbed her thighs and held on.   "Hello," she smiled and moved lower, "you like this?" "What?" Stretching out on his chest, she scored him again, all the way up, until her fingers twined in his hair, turning pain into bliss. "This." "Yeah, this." With her tongue in his mouth and his fingernails on her back, they made love again in the light of the fire and the Christmas lights.

The next morning Mulder found Scully on his couch, with a mug of coffee in hand and her feet propped up on the coffee table. He leaned over her and kissed the top of her head. "Morning," she said, leaning her head back for another one, on her lips. The day didn't start until he got at least three. "You hung the ornaments." "We should get you some fun ones." "UFO's?" He teased, brushing her smile the third time, the charm. "Handcuffs." "Warn me, before I open my gifts in front of your mother." "I'm thinking neckties and scarves." "Try leather belts and gloves." "Gloves?" He climbed over the back of the couch, picked up the mug she had ready for him and pulled her under his arm. "I like to keep my hands warm." "What are we doing today?" "Visiting Will." "Other than that, obviously." "Oh, I don't know, watch tv, hang out, order in." "Tie you up and stay in bed until Monday?" "Tie me up?" His eyebrow went up on the 'me'. "Okay, we can take turns." Mulder set the mug on the floor and pulled her legs over his lap. A hand climbed up her thigh, pushing her back into the couch cushions. He pushed past the lace, whispering against her lips. "Will you always keep me guessing?" "As long as you keep unfolding like a flower." "I wish I've met you when I was still in my twenties." "You did," she grinned, glancing down, "at least part of you did." "Okay," grabbing her hips he pulled her down, "you've asked for it." Mulder yanked at the sash and the bathrobe and her thighs fell open. They didn't make it for lunch with Will. He didn't mind.

[unexpectedreylo]

The Straight Dope On Galaxy’s Edge

I went to Disneyland Aug. 7-10 for my birthday because where else would I rather be than in the GFFA?  

It’s amazing!  It’s like a Ralph McQuarrie painting come to life.  Even though it is “set” during the ST, it tries to have a little bit of something for every Star Wars fan.  And maybe even for your friends and family who aren’t into it as much as you are.

Don’t believe the hype that it’s not doing well.  Disneyland has had annual passholder blackout dates to keep attendance below crazy levels and while overall attendance is down 3% (probably due to fears of massive crowds as well as higher ticket prices),  I can safely tell you that there was a great deal of interest in Galaxy’s Edge by attendees.  On Thursday and Saturday, everyone made a beeline for it just as the park opened in the morning.  I was doing the Griswold family dash to Wally World myself, power walking the best my middle aged/out-of-shape self could as kids and teenagers went past me.  Requiring reservations for Oga’s Cantina and Savi’s Workshop (where you build the lightsabers) prevented hellacious hours-long lines for those attractions.  Smuggler’s Run has had waits as long as three hours over the course of the summer.  It reached its 1 millionth rider in mid-July.  On Thursday, the longest I wait I saw was 80 or 90 minutes and that was on a weekday blackout date.  The section of the park was busy both Thursday and Saturday mornings.  For what it’s worth, it seemed like half the people at Disneyland overall had some kind of Star Wars t-shirt on.  It was like a Celebration with rides.

Attendance isn’t the only metric.  What really matters is whether people are spending money there and I can vouch that people were buying.  The lightsabers are $200 a pop alone.  There were merchandise I wanted to get but weren’t available, such as the japor snippet necklace and the Rey vest (sizes XS-L were sold out).  White kyber crystals are still sold out.  I saw signs everywhere limiting certain items to one per person.  People were packing the cantina and all of them got drinks.  Ronto’s Roasters did pretty steady business.

Just bear in mind that parks play the long game and it probably serves Disney’s long term interests to allow paying attendees and not just local APs the chance to experience Galaxy’s Edge.  Hell crowds would just make people angry they spent all of that money and couldn’t see or do a thing.

Now, here’s where I’m going to dish some advice to those of you who are planning to go either to the one in Anaheim or at WDW.  The WDW version is at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, so some of this won’t apply to the Mouse House East but I think a lot of it will.

Tip #1--Your best bet is on a weekday, first thing in the morning as the park opens.  If it’s an AP blackout date, that’s even better.  Remember, Disney is like con...you don’t come to sleep.

Tip #2--Stay at a Disney hotel to take advantage of Magic Hour.  I know, I know, they’re $$$ while there are many cheaper alternatives but if you really want to beat the crowds this is the way to do it.  Galaxy’s Edge will not be accessible during Magic Hour (at DL it’s just Fantasyland that’s open) but you can start lining up at the ropes in front of Frontierland and Adventureland.  While GE at DL has three entrances, they will send you the looong way through New Orleans Square and Critter Country when the park fully opens.  If you’re at WDW, stay at the Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach, or Pop Century resorts...they’re the ones closest to Hollywood Studios though you’ll still have to take the Disney bus to get there.  (The Swan and the Dolphin are on Disney property but are NOT Disney resort hotels, so no Magic Hour.)  

Another perk to staying at a Disney hotel now is that as part of our travel package we all got free exclusive Galaxy’s Edge lanyards with a pin!

Tip #3--Ladies...I think with the exception of the First Order boutique and the cosplay items, I liked the a lot of t-shirts and stuff for kids more than the ones for adults!  So if you are on the small side, you might be able to fit in the bigger kids’ wear.  For instance I got a great Black Spire hoodie for $40 at Jewels of Bith...the adult hoodie was like 20 bucks more.  My mom liked it so much she got one for herself and my niece.  Note:  the merch you buy inside GE don’t say “Galaxy’s Edge” or have Star Wars logos.  If you want those, you’ll have to buy them in the regular Disney stores.

Tip #4--Oga’s Cantina.  Reservations are required so as soon as you plan your trip, go on the DL/WDW app and reserve right away.  I think now you can reserve up to 60 days in advance...if not, definitely 14 days in advance.  You are NOT guaranteed a seat.  You are given an area to hang out in (at the bar, at a table, or at a booth) and you are to remain there.  You can’t run and grab a booth for instance if a party leaves.  Your limit is 45 minutes and two drinks.  I will say though that service is fast (I guess most drinks are pre-mixed) and in our case, we didn’t even need to stay the entire 45 minutes.  I got the Cliff Dweller (I don’t drink) while my brother got whatever they call the beer and my dad got the teal-colored “white” wine.  My older niece got the blue milk with the Bantha cookie.  She gave rave reviews for both.  The younger niece got the stuff that came from the creature tank.  It sounds gross but she liked it.  There are no restrooms inside the cantina btw.  

Tip #5--Savi’s Workshop.  Again, reservations are required and they should be made as soon as possible.  The lightsabers are $199 and you pay when you check in.  The day I went they were running behind, so while my reservation was at 3:00, I didn’t actually get in the building until like 3:30.  The process takes about 20 minutes.  You are ushered into a shop and there’s a whole narrative and everything.  The “gatherers” have harvested scrap metal and kyber crystals and crafted lightsaber parts.  Based on the “theme” you selected at check in (stuff like “power and control” or “peace and justice”) you are given trays with parts to choose from and a crystal (blue, green, purple, or red).  Your guides are in character and sometimes it’s all earnest af, but then again so are the movies.  I found it surprisingly easy to put these together.  The “gatherers” put the blade in for you then you step forward, turn on the switch, and yay, you got a new lightsaber!  You get to wave them in the air and stuff.  On the way out you are given a free sheath bag to put it in.  If you don’t want to lug your new lightsaber on a plane or have to check it in, you can have it shipped home for $17 at the First Order boutique (though I don’t know if other stores will do it for you too).  

Tip #6--Smugglers’ Run.  The best time to go on the ride, since to date there are no fastpasses, is right when the park opens.  Thursday morning at 8:10 a.m. had the shortest wait, 15 minutes but I pretty much walked right onto the ride.  The next best option is going single rider, which is what my brother and I did the second time we went on it.  It was about half the regular wait time.  Have your camera ready to get that chess table photo op because you will get called right away for your “boarding group” (assigned with a color).  Two pilot, two shoot, two “engineer.”  The light up buttons make it easy to figure out what you have to do but accuracy is tough.  I piloted the first time, shot the second time.  The good news is I did not crash either time.  Which is miraculous.

Tip #7--Other food and drink.  Unfortunately I didn’t get the opportunity to eat at Docking Bay 7 or Ronto Rosters.  I’m told the breakfast wrap at Ronto Roasters is phenomenal.  Don’t expect typical Disney fare in Galaxy’s Edge; the closest it comes is the Star Wars popcorn.  No galactic churros or Mickey ice cream pops here.  In fact an in-character cast member and Chewbacca were really curious about our churros when we went into Galaxy’s Edge on Saturday.  My younger niece even tried to give Chewie a piece to try, LOL.  What you can get is blue milk and green milk.  We got one of each on Thursday to try.  Both were better than the notoriously sweet butterbeers at Wizarding World of Harry Potter.  Tasty and refreshing on a hot day.  But I kinda think we all leaned more toward the blue milk.  In fact the nieces insisted on another round of blue milk when we returned on Saturday.  You can get the Aurebesh label soda and water at a variety of stands and at Docking Bay 7.  (Maybe Ronto Roasters too.)  They’re pricey but everything at Disney is 30-50% more expensive than they would be anywhere else.  And the Aurebesh bottles make for low cost souvenirs.

Tip #8--Characters.  Chewbacca and FO stormtroopers were around quite a bit.  I saw Vi Moradi twice and Kylo a couple of times (Chewie and Kylo get treated like rock stars), but I totally missed Rey.  My parents saw her though.  Characters here do NOT sign autographs, something my nieces found out the hard way when they tried to get them from stormtroopers.  LOL.

Tip #8--Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities.  This is where you buy your holocrons and loose kyber crystals (only with purchase of a holocron).  They were still out of white crystals so I bought a red one.  When you put a red crystal in your Jedi holocron, Yoda warns you about the dark side.  Bonus:  the kyber crystals you buy here can be put in your lightsaber from Savi’s Workshop.  So if you buy both a holocron and a lightsaber, make sure you get a different color crystal for each so you can switch them around!  Here you’ll find a lot of Jedi cosplay, Leia cosplay, and the headdress Padme used in AOTC as part of her peasant disguise, among other goodies.  The stained glass portraits of Leia and Queen Amidala were stunning but they were kinda big and 95 bucks apiece.  They had a set of ceramic busts of everyone’s favorite mother-daughter duo for $55 but I didn’t feel like lugging those around at the time.  For older Star Wars fans, this is probably going to be your favorite store.

Tip #9--Other merchandise/shopping.  The First Order boutique is located right next to Kylo’s parked shuttle and across from the “milk” stand.  The Resistance has two carts at the entrance in front of the (unopened) Rise of the Resistance ride.  I kinda like that the underground Resistance is on the “outskirts” of the outpost while the conquering FO is right there in the center of town.  Makes sense for the narrative.  Savi’s and the store where you can build a droid (no reservation necessary...this was a hit with kids) are next to each other.  Everything else is in the marketplace in a series of smallish stalls.  Keep an eye out because nobody has signs.  (Note:  layout might be slightly different at WDW.)  

Tip #10--Wear a hat and sunscreen.  The marketplace is the only area in GE with shade.  The rest of it is out in the sun, so be prepared because in CA it’s easy to get a sunburn and in FL, it’s easier still.  Bring a rain poncho if you’re at WDW because of those hit and run thunderstorms.  

Tip #11-- You don’t have to be a passive tourist.  Some cast members get into it more than others but you’ll get more out of Galaxy’s Edge if you play along.  As Star Wars fans, you’ll get the lingo (for instance they do call kids “younglings” and talk about money as credits) so that’s no problem.  When you’re inside of Galaxy’s Edge you can go on the DL/WDW app and activate your “datapad” and scan stuff at various locations.  My brother did this with his phone while we were poking around and you can earn rankings and stuff within the different factions.

Overall I think what Galaxy’s Edge is now is just the beginning.  Rise of the Resistance opens this winter at both parks and from what I’ve heard, more attractions and shows are in the works.  Personally, I’d love a hair braiding station where you can get your hair done like Leia or Rey or Battle of Geonosis Padme since that’s probably her easiest style!  I want a Reylo night time show!  But it’s absolutely worth visiting as it is.  You can easily spend half the day or longer there, depending on how much you want to do.  Few Star Wars or Disney experiences will ever top entering Galaxy’s Edge, huffing and puffing from having to go up and down hills, hearing the music over the loudspeakers and the cast members and various characters coming out to wave hello to everyone.  Even the stormtroopers.  I felt like I’d just finished the Batuu 5K!  And then seeing everyone gawk at the Millennium Falcon in front of Smuggler’s Run.  

[pwchronicle]

Ring of Honor “Best in the World” TV Taping Report June 29th in Philadelphia, PA

ROH followed up their annual Best in the World PPV in Baltimore with a TV taping at the 2300 Arena. For fans in my neck of the woods, it was either this or All Elite Wrestling’s second show, Fyter Fest, available for free on B/R Live. There was also UFC airing on regular ESPN, so plenty of choices tonight. A number of people chose not to attend tonight’s taping; it definitely did not look like the sell-out ROH was reporting, certainly down from the last two times ROH ran here last October and December. Myself? I can catch these other shows later in the weekend. I went in to this after just reading about what went down in Baltimore, unfortunately not all that compelled to order it, but still looking forward to fun stuff tonight. 

Future of Honor: Azrieal beat Matita (?) with a splash off the top rope. That’s right, Azrieal, the former Special K member who cleaned up his act, has made his way back into ROH after being absent for several years. He and his opponent (billed from Africa) both looked pretty good. I probably butchered his opponent’s name, but towards the end he was up on the top rope when Azrieal shoved the ref into the ropes, pretending it was an accident as his opponent was crotched on the top. Azrieal then hit him with a draping DDT to lead to the finish.

Future of Honor: The Tate Twins (formerly The Boys) beat Geddy Cahoon and “Classy” Max Stenway after a double chokeslam on the larger Cahoon. The Boys have matured a little, with a Batman-esque video screen that still calls them The Boys as they come out in capes. I’ve seen Cahoon once before in Chikara’s Young Lions Cup tournament last year I think. He has an old-school look, black trunks with white boots, while his partner wore gray pants and a top that looked like a buttoned vest. I thought this was okay, one noticeable hiccup being one of the twins and Cahoon doing some sloppy pin exchanges. 

The injured Colt Cabana was able to make it out tonight, with the help of a cane, to call the action with Ian Riccaboni. Kenny King joined them on commentary for the first televised match.

1. Shane Taylor beat Rhett Titus in a Proving Ground Match after hitting him with a headbutt. Titus did some flexing early to get out of Taylor’s grip for comedic effect, and he was able to hit a nice dropkick early. Taylor was all business and gave him a legdrop on the edge of the ring. Nearfall by Titus following at least three running boots in the corner and a Samoan Drop.

- Following Titus’ loss, King came down ringside and said he was disgusted. He brought up his history with Titus as the All Night Express, when they picked up wins over the Briscoes, the Young Bucks, Roderick Strong, and Tyler Black. Now King thinks Titus is a joke, and he brought up his pregnant wife in the crowd. He asked Titus how she could be proud of him, and why Titus’ son (Jimmy Controversy? I’ve seen him wrestle late last year) can’t look him in the eye. Titus got hot, but he just left the ring as King called him a punkass bitch.

2. Tasha Steelz won a 4-Way #1 Contender’s Match over Angelina Love (w/ Velvet Sky and Mandy Leon), Jenny Rose, and Stella Grey when she pinned Grey after hitting an ace crusher. Kelly Klein joined commentary for this, and this was the first time I’ve noticed Brian Hebner reffing for ROH. Sky said this match was bull and that Love is already the true #1 Contender to Klein’s WOH World Title. Leon, meanwhile, had a dog with her, and the dog was wearing a leather jacket. There were no incidents between the Allure and fans in the crowd, but there wasn’t much enthusiasm from fans during this match either, even though Rose and Grey got hometown wrestler pops, and everyone liked the dog, though it didn’t get involved. Leon got involved trying to trip one of the women, and Hebner ejected her, Sky, and the dog from ringside because of it. Love hit a dive to the floor from the top rope, then got up in another corner to call out to Klein afterward. Klein came down to ringside briefly, and this distraction led to the other three wrestlers taking down Love.

- After the match, the lights went out while Love and Steelz were still in the ring, the Maneater video played, and when the lights came back on, newcomer Maria Manic was standing behind Love and Steelz. Manic got a good reception. Love bailed out of the ring while the next title challenger Steelz stepped up to her. Four crew members separated the two of them. Manic took out all four guys herself, including putting one of them in a torture rack before dumping him out of the ring, and taking out another with a tree slam. This made Manic even more popular, so a job well done on her arrival into ROH and Women of Honor.

3. Jay Lethal & The Bouncers (Beer City Bruiser & Brian Milonas) beat The Kingdom (Matt Taven, TK O’Ryan, and Vinny Marseglia) after the Bouncers hit O’Ryan with Closing Time. Good action with three popular babyfaces. Before the match, Lethal demanded timekeeper Amy Rose (not Sonic the Hedgehog’s friend) to leave the ringside area because of her interference in Lethal’s match against Kenny King at Best in the World (she returned maybe two matches later). The Kingdom preferred to be in the ring with Lethal as opposed to the Bouncers, and Lethal was worked over before making hot tags to each of them. Lethal hit his suicide dives towards the end. The Bouncers’ stock continues to rise (they recently earned a Tag Team Title shot in the Northwest), but before they could celebrate with post-match beers, Taven yanked Lethal down from the apron and gave him a Climax on the floor. The Bouncers and other crew attended to Lethal as he was helped to the back.

4. Eli Drake beat Grizzly Redwood with an air raid crash. Pretty short squash by new NWA signee Drake on another returning face in Redwood, though he’s local, so I’m not sure how much of a return it really is. Nick Aldis, flanked by Kamille, was on commentary during this. Drake cut a promo afterward about his arrival into the NWA and his pursuit of the World Title, and I thought he came off well.

5. Coast 2 Coast (LSG & Shaheem Ali) beat Marcus Kross & Griff Garrison when Ali pinned Kross after a Boss Man Slam spun out from a powerslam position. This ended up being a competitive match and not a squash, with Kross (with gear and hair inspired by Goku) and Garrison (who just looks like an in-shape wrestler) getting a good amount of offense against the more established Coast 2 Coast. I also thought it was quite good, and a portion of the crowd chanted “Please Come Back!” to Kross and Garrison.

6. Jonathan Gresham won a Four Corner Survival over Jeff Cobb, Kenny King, and Dalton Castle. Caprice Coleman joined the commentary team from this point on. Castle, who is now heel and has ditched the flowing, winged robe for just a glittery jacket, was still beloved by the crowd. He and King hesitated getting in the ring, while Gresham and G1 Jeff kept it more serious. The Four Corner Survival rules of only two men in the ring at a time via tags (which confused the rowdy group of guys behind me, down from Ottawa, ONT Canada [!] for a bachelor party) naturally broke down, leading to Cobb going nuts with his suplexes. The end came when King took a shoe from Amy Rose to use as a weapon, but Gresham got a hold of it, hit King with it, and pinned King with a handful of his trunks. I thought it was fun, and it might come off better to me if I were to watch it on TV. Gresham returned the shoe to Rose. 

- Jay Lethal came out to speak to the crowd. He said he hasn’t spoken about his losing the ROH World Title at G1 Supercard because he’s a bad loser, and it was a heavy pill to swallow. Then he remembered that he’s a two-time World Champion, meaning he lost it once, but worked hard and was able to win it again. He will have a title match next month in New York, and he plans to win the title back from Matt Taven. This cued Taven to come out and dress down Lethal. He said Lethal was embarrassing his parents, who were in the crowd, and that Lethal was proving that his parents raised a liar. Taven said Lethal choked in Madison Square Garden, and now Taven is the face of ROH, and they’re living in the Time of Taven. As Taven finished what he had to say, out came Alex Shelley in a suit. He’s making his return, as he said he was careful not to say he was retiring when he last appeared in ROH. He said he’s been wrestling for seventeen years, has constantly been in the wrong place at the wrong time, but he’s left his mark around the world. He said he’s pulling out his proverbial veteran’s card yet again, and that he wants a shot at whoever is the champion after the match in New York. This segment was followed by intermission.

7. The Soldiers of Savagery (Moses & Kaun) beat two wrestlers after hitting double chokeslams on both of them. After just doing run-ins up until now, the Soldiers of Savagery had an official entrance, and it was a pretty cool one. Quick post-intermission squash, as they attacked their opponents (who were in matching gear) before they could be introduced.

- Caprice Coleman came out to the ring to host an interview segment with Nick Aldis. Kamille held the NWA World Heavyweight Title for Aldis. Coleman brought up the Summer Supercard happening in Toronto on August 9, with ROH hosting talent from New Japan and CMLL. Coleman had heard the NWA World Heavyweight Title would be defended at Summer Supercard and asked Aldis who his challenger would be. Aldis started by bringing up his fight with the Briscoes at Best in the World, and he offered Jay Briscoe a title shot whenever he pleases. As for Summer Supercard, he suggested he might want to have another match with Marty Scurll. This prompted Scurll to come out, and he said that he would also like to have a rematch. Aldis said he wasn’t finished, as he’s actually offering the title shot at Summer Supercard to any member of Villian Enterprises, and he will let Scurll choose who it will be. Aldis and Kamille left, as Coleman asked Scurll who he chooses for the title match, or if he’s taking the match himself. Scurll stalled for a little bit and said he had a lot to think about. Coleman closed by reiterating the name of the event and it’s August 9 date.

- Another segment followed, with Riccaboni and Cabana coming down to ringside. Riccaboni talked a little about Cabana’s injury and asked him for an update. Cabana stated how he has a cane now, barely got the the okay from his doctor to fly out to the events this weekend, but then James Storm interrupted. He was dressed to wrestle, brought up his match against Cabana in Chicago for the NWA National Title, and that he’s here for those five more minutes Cabana offered after the match went to a time limit draw. Cabana brought up how Cabana would have given him those five more minutes, but the Briscoes attacked him and Storm did nothing. Cabana began to leave when Storm shoved him from behind to the ground and berated him. Cabana agreed to the title match after this, despite his bad leg and not being dressed to compete.

8. James Storm beat Colt Cabana to win the NWA National Title. This couldn’t have lasted more than five minutes. Cabana tried for his Superman pin right off the bat but couldn’t get it properly with his bad leg. Storm worked over Cabana’s leg as Riccaboni remained at ringside and tried to convince Storm to stop, very concerned for Cabana. Storm put Cabana in a half crab on the injured leg, but Cabana got to the ropes. Cabana fought back, and he tried and failed to get Storm in the Billy Goat’s Curse. Storm hit a superkick and locked in the half crab in the middle of the ring, finally forcing Cabana to submit. Storm then made Riccaboni announce him as the winner and new NWA National Champion. Good drama throughout that the crowd followed. This was likely the end of Cabana’s commentary for the night.

9. Silas Young beat Josh Woods with a small package. After the opening bell but before any action took place, Young got a hold of the mic. He said Woods has been in ROH for two years, but he hasn’t accomplished anything. He said the fans don’t respect Woods like they respect him, and that Woods could benefit from learning from him. He then gave the mic back to the ref, and as the ref did so Young kicked Woods in the groin and rolled him up for the quick win. Young has already corrupted Gresham, and he might be doing the same to Woods.

10. Shinobi Shadow Squad (Cheeseburger, Eli Isom, and Ryan Nova) beat Brian Johnson, Joe Keys, and Dante Caballero after they hit Caballero with a draping DDT/top rope double stomp combo. The three Future of Honor regulars, especially Johnson and Caballero, got a chance to show more of their personalities during this match. They suffered from some miscommunication though, ending with Keys accidentally hitting Caballero to lead to the finish. Afterward, Keys and Caballero came to blows with each other and had to be separated while Johnson just walked off.

11. Karissa Rivera beat Sumie Sakai after sitting down on a sunset flip attempt for the pin. This was Sakai’s first match back from injury, and this seemed to get a good amount of time with a lot of nearfalls. The action was pretty decent, though there was a moment where Sakai bowed to Rivera, Rivera went to bow back, and Sakai rolled her up in a small package that looked pretty bad. Rivera getting the upset win here came off well to me based on the crowd reaction, and Sakai sold the shock of it. Quinn McKay came into the ring to interview Rivera about it, but Sakai intervened and offered Rivera a handshake and congratulated her. If this is just a torch passing from Sakai, that’s A-okay.

12. Rush & Dragon Lee beat Jay & Mark Briscoe when Rush pinned Jay after hitting the Bull’s Horns. This match came off fantastic, as it was basically a fast-paced brawl. They began brawling on the floor early, starting when Dragon Lee went to hit a suicide dive onto the Briscoes, but they caught Lee and gave him a double suplex onto the floor. A little later, Mark came up bleeding heavily from the forehead, and I don’t know how it happened if it was hardway. It likely was as someone retrieved a towel to attend to Mark. This wasn’t at the level of how Jay has bled in the past, but Mark was bleeding so much Rush began focusing on it, wiping some of it on his chest and biting at the wound. ROH TV likely wouldn’t allow spots like this, so I imagine this match will be heavily edited when it airs, with the full uncut match featuring these spots put on HonorClub. Nevertheless, the blood added some intensity to the match, and the wrestlers capitalized on it. Mark used a chair to assist his running dive over the top to the floor. Rush was given a neckbreaker by Jay and the Froggy Bow by Mark, but Rush still kicked out that a lot of fans saw as three. Lee took out Mark with a running hurricanrana over the top rope to the floor to leave Rush to finish off Jay. A wild match that had the crowd shitting apes. Dragon Lee continues to be on a roll after some stellar matches these last two months in New Japan.

- There was a quick change of the ring canvas and wiping down of the ropes as Bobby Cruise announced that Villain Enterprises would be out next. When the ring was ready, the LifeBlood trio of Bandido, Tracy Williams, and Mark Haskins came out (they’re all that’s left of this faction!). Haskins brought up how Villain Enterprises played a fast one on them at the PPV with their recruiting of Flip Gordon when they thought he would join LifeBlood, and they demanded they came out. Marty Scurll came out again, accompanied by Gordon, Brody King, and PCO. Scurll properly introduced Gordon to the crowd as the newest employee of Villain Enterprises, the understudy, the intern, and the mercenary. He then gave Gordon the night off (following a potential injury at the PPV) to watch this six-man tag team match from the back, and he told LifeBlood that this would not be for their recently remade Six-Man Tag Team Titles, as they just defended them at the PPV (against Haskins, Williams, and PJ Black). Williams was fine with that, as they just wanted a fight, and given where they were, he demanded a Philadelphia Street Fight. The crowd was all for this, Villain Enterprises agreed, and the match was on.

13. LifeBlood beat Villain Enterprises in a non-title Philadelphia Street Fight when Bandido pinned Scurll. Chaos from the start. The timekeeper’s table was cleared off early and set up where the entrance way reaches ringside. The first big moment was King attempting to superplex Haskins onto two rows of chairs, but King went through them himself after Williams and Bandido made the save. LifeBlood began using canes. Bandido gave PCO a hurricanrana off the top rope through the table on the floor, and it all seemed perfectly executed. This left Scurll alone, and he was put into a sharpshooter by Haskins and a cane-assisted crossface by Williams, but King made the save. Dives to the floor from King and PCO was followed by a twisting dive from the top by Bandido. The landing looked rough but Bandido still got up. Back in the ring, Bandido gave PCO his version of the GTS, followed by the 21-plex onto an open chair. During all of this, a woman in the crowd shouted, “Leave him alone! He’s old!” This was only a nearfall as Scurll and King made the save, and then they brought a second table into the ring. Williams and Haskins peppered King with more cane shots. Scurll responded with shots from his umbrella. Scurll took down Bandido with his umbrella, placed him on the table, and went up top, but Bandido recovered and stopped Scurll, finally giving him his moonsault slam off the top through the table for the big win. Another wild, crowd-pleasing match. Bandido, Haskins, and Williams shook hands with all of the ringside fans, and then Williams took the mic and thanked the crowd for coming out on behalf of LifeBlood and everyone at ROH. 

The main show started at about 6 PM and ended at 9:47 PM. I had some issues with the pacing of this show early on. A lot of talking segments that were good, some longer matches that weren’t good, and some shorter matches, but I really enjoyed the two last matches, and they energized the crowd and ended the night on a high note. A lot of focus on the NWA, and I’m not sure how it will play into ROH as I don’t know how much of it will be part of ROH TV. Cabana vs. Storm likely will be, but I don’t know about the Aldis-Scurll segment or the Eli Drake squash. ROH has a little bit of direction with the faction warfare, the World Title picture with Alex Shelley returning, and Maria Manic joining the women’s division, but I listened to the reactions, and they varied to people from Dalton Castle to Rush. No direction for Jeff Cobb following the PPV as he’s off to be G1 Jeff, and late in the game I joined the bandwagon of wanting him to win the ROH World Title and take it with him to Japan for a month in change, throwing the other contenders into crisitunity over the summer in the attempt of some more compelling stories. But no, ROH is focused on Matt Taven and company, and Taven still has his fans. No return date was given for Philadelphia, while they hit up New York City and Lowell, MA next month.

[cryptic-messages-13-blog]

A Guide to (SOME) of the Easter Egg Pins on Taylor’s Entertainment Weekly Cover

1.  Selena Gomez – one of Taylor’s best friends (and one of the few people who’ve heard the new record)

2.  The Dixie Chicks – Taylor is a huge fan of the trio: “They make interesting music in an unapologetically feminine way.”

3.  CATS – Taylor is playing Bombalurina in the big-screen adaptation. Spoiler alert: She went to “cat school” (really).

4.  Calm – “Je suis calme!” is what Swift shouts in the music video (and behind-the-scenes video) for her new single, “ME!”

5.  Friends – a major staple in Swift’s world. Her favorite quote from the show? “‘Pivot!’ I take it as career advice.”

6.  Cats – not to be confused with the musical, Swift is mom to three cats: Olivia Benson, Meredith Grey, and now Benjamin Button. She also tries to work her love for felines into as many songs and music videos as humanly possible. If you see a cat it’s wise to remember it symbolizes nothing more than her love for her pets.

7.  Troye Sivan – Taylor is a big admirer of the Australian pop star, bringing him out to sing “My My My!” on the Reputation Tour.

8.  Grey’s Anatomy – Taylor’s go-to Grey’s Anatomy quote: “So do it. Decide. Is this the life you want to live? Is this the person you want to love? Is this the best you can be?”

9.  Track 5 – a nod to the fan theory that the most emotional song on each of her albums is placed at track 5 (“Cold As You,” “White Horse,” “Dear John,” “All Too Well,” “All You Had to Do Was Stay,” and “Delicate”).

10.  Drake – Taylor calls Drake one of her favorite lyricists. “I love his one-liners,” she told EW. “Like ‘You say I led you on/But you followed me.’ Or ‘This a Rollie, not a stopwatch/It don’t ever stop.’”

11.  Faith Hill – One of Taylor’s favorite singers and, of course, noted wife of one Tim McGraw.

12.  Mister Rogers – Taylor watched Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood every day after school and also said that the documentary about the children’s show (Won’t You Be My Neighbor?) was the last movie she watched that made a major impact on the singer.

13.  Law & Order: Special Victims Unit – Taylor is a major Law & Order buff — see Olivia Benson the cat, Mariska Hargitay’s cameo in the “Bad Blood” music video and on the 1989 tour, and countless other references. The two-tone chime is also one of her favorite sounds.

14.  Pastel colors – the color palette, which she began using on Instagram in February, represents a brand-new era foreshadowed by her manicure in the Spotify vertical video for “Delicate.”

15.  Game of Thrones – breaking news: The HBO show (and Arya’s kill list) actually provided the inspiration for Reputation. Oh, and if Swift had her own dragon, she would totally name it Villanelle, after the Killing Eve mastermind.

16.  Awesome – a nod to the line she sings in “ME!”: “You can’t spell awesome without me.”

[teddyylou]

Seven Minute Siege: aka that fan fiction I've been half assedly promoing

Here it is Chapter 1/15

PART 1: SILENT WITNESSES

Caspar’s Story:

STARTS 9:48 AM

Who actually needs to know what year the Berlin wall was built?

After a good ten minutes of trying to force myself to pay attention, I give up, easing my cramped hand and dropping my pencil on the table. I sat there staring at it, SpongeBob print mocking me, while it rolled onto the floor.

Mental note; thank Joe for that stationary set later.

The saddest part is that I actually like history.

It’s even sadder that I wouldn’t like it apart from the fact that Mr P. was the teacher. He was the first teacher who actually looked like they wanted to be there, and not in a creepy; over the top way, but he was also the first teacher who actually gave me a chance. He quickly became my advisor in freshman year, and I couldn’t thank him enough.

“Caspar? Caspar! Are you listening?” I hear someone snap their fingers and I look away from my pencil, which has made its way over to the bookshelf next to my desk and is currently chilling with a 2006 copy of People Magazine. Bless the American Education System. I see that it was Mr P. and I give him an apologetic smile.

Great job, Caspar

“I get that you only have three weeks left of high school but that is no excuse to feel like you do not have to-”

BANG! Crackle BANG!

“AHHHHHHG!!!”

BA- CRACKLE!

The loudspeaker cut out and the whole class is left silent and wide-eyed.

What in the hell..?

Mr P. looks from the P.A. in question over to us, then back to the P.A. His teeth are clenched together in a ‘what the fuck’ kind of way. He clears his throat before turning to us once more.

“I’m sure someone in the office just fell on the loudspeaker button… Back to work guys.” Mr P coaxed with his usual smile, but due to the uncertainty in his voice, not a single student resumed their study.

My stomach churned, Mr. P’s words just slipped through my mind like a whisper.

The class were all wide-eyed and dead silent. A pin dropping could have be heard. I looked at the faces of my classmates, the people I had come to know slightly better over the semester, most of which I had never spoken to until senior year. Their expressions were not necessarily scared, but at the same level of ‘what the fuck’ that Sir was at moments ago.

From the back of the classroom Sam Pepper, a generally loud and obnoxious kid, reluctantly raised his hand.

“Sir, even if they fell on the button, that didn’t sound normal for an office. Should we- should we lock down?” His voice cracked in his sentence through fear.

“No, no, it’s fine… Come on guys.” Mr P sounded completely unfazed by the sound we just witnessed. I understand that teachers have to keep us calm and all, but if he is only pretending that everything will be fine, he is doing a good job of it. But unfortunately he is the only one doing so.

Mr P sighs, “Guys, fine. If anything is really wrong, the alarm will go off. Until then, we have nothing to worry about.” Our teacher encouraged. I had a bad feeling about this and I’m sure the feeling amongst the other students was mutual.

9:49 AM

Mr P sat timidly at his desk, hands clasped together and tense. I think the tension of the situation was growing on him as he went from his still position behind his desk, to quickly jumping out of his seat faster than lightning. He marched directly over to the door, reaching out both hands to close it. But just his hands reached the doorknob; he was pushed back by a strong force and knocked onto the floor.

Screams were let out as a red colour appeared across his chest, spreading quickly staining his blue button-up shirt. It was like the universe went into slow motion as a man in a black beanie concealing his face, only enough so that he could see, pushed our teacher to the floor as he stormed the classroom, gun in hand. He fired across the classroom as people ducked and dived for cover before their brains could register what was happening. Students were dropping like flies in their attempt to escape the mad man’s fire.

After coming to my senses of what was happening, I jumped behind the bookcase and pulled my knees to my chest. I cover my ears in an attempt to block out the sounds of my classmates and friends’ screams. I can’t comprehend what is happening as bullets fly around the room like darts, hitting people multiple times. Who could be doing this? Why? I see a body fall practically on to me, ripping me out of trance as I jump in shock and horror. I almost let out a scream as I push it off noticing that it was the body of none other than Sam Pepper that was now lying next to me; my clothes are saturated in his blood as wet, hot tears stream down my face.

I rock back and forth while the gunshots continue. Then all of a sudden they stop, just as fast as they had started. Either everyone was dead or I had gone deaf due to the bullets. All I could hear was my own heart beat through every part of my body as I held my breath.

I remember what my mother told me. If I’m ever in this situation, play dead.

The figure walks around the bodies of senior students checking to make sure no one is alive. I quickly go limp and continue to hold my breath as I shut my eyes; Pretending that Sam’s blood is my own. I feel the man walk past me and stop. I try not to move.

I want to scream.

I give all of my will power not to squint my eyes further, or do anything to show that I am not dead. If I try anything I’ll be dead before I could finish it. I hear what I think is him finally walking away. I count to thirty before deciding to sit up.

I look around the now silent classroom, amongst the red puddles and splatters on the floor and walls, to see that I am the only one left alive.

As the silence continues, I decide to stand. I walk lines through the desks. Slowly, not trying to touch anyone, checking that maybe someone is still breathing. I see dead bodies left and right, still with eyes open. Clutched stomachs, and hurled over bodies from pain, the stench of death already lingering. I make it to the front of the room, failing in an attempt to steady my breaths and tears.

I head to the door, peeking my head around the frame. It would be stupid to leave; the man could walk out from anywhere and shoot me. I bring my whole body back inside the classroom and press it to the wall, hidden against it.

Not sure if I can bear to look at anything in the room for any longer, I let out a breath with my eyes squeezed shut.

I wait in silence.

…1…

…2…

…3…

I suck my breath right back in and slide down the wall to the floor when the gunshots start again.

9:50 AM

From my spot in a ball against the orange felt walls, I hear the door of the classroom next to ours get broken into, the cries of a teacher trying to save his students, who at least bothered to make them go into lockdown.

I try to find something to distract myself from what was going on, so I can pretend I’m not helplessly pressed against a wall clinging onto it for dear life. The sounds of gunshots go off around me echoing through the halls as screams and cries ring in my ears. Unfortunately the only other thing I can see from my spot on the floor is the dead corpse of my favourite teacher.

I feel like I never got to repay him for everything he did for me. He was the one who helped my with my dyslexia, he was the only one who tried to find other solutions for me to complete my work. He never dismissed my Tourette’s as bad behaviour. He understood my ticks. But most importantly, out of everything, he helped my come into terms with myself and helped me believe that who I was, was okay and nothing to be ashamed of.

In a time where I was to afraid to even come to school, or go home, he gave me council, and we talked it out. He made me realise that I was normal and that I had nothing to worry about. He told me to come to him if anyone was ever mean to me, and he advised me when I told him about my crush on my now three year boyfriend Joe.

We had gotten together at the end of freshman year, and today of all days was our three-year anniversary. Mr P helped me build up courage to ask him out. Joe was always so confidant and one of the only openly gay guys at our school. There was Tyler and Troye, two best friends who I was always too afraid to talk to. There was also Connor Franta but he didn’t come out until the end of last year.

It was only through Mr P and Joe that I can now say that all of those people, plus many more are now my best friends in the whole world.

Speaking of anniversaries, it just occurred to me that a certain event was due to happen just after school was let out. Three weeks from now, at the start of the break, Mr P was going to get married. Joe, the rest of my family and I were all invited and we were hardly ever not talking about it.

I let out a small whimper thinking about him and his fiancé. She was lovely; she was a musician and had an amazing sense of humour. He was caring and brilliant. They were perfect for each other. He was stupid for not going into lockdown. But neither of them deserved this. No one did.

My thoughts were interrupted as I noticed the unnerving silence which must have meant that the gunshots had stopped, then I heard a small creak of a door from across the hall. Curiosity got the best of me and I peeked my head around the corner yet again. My eyes widened as I met an equally scared looking pair of eyes, belonging to no other then Arden Rose. She was hiding in the doorway of the library, obviously not knowing the situation, and scared out of her brains. I silently urged for her to run back into the library. Using my hands as signals but it was clear she had no idea what I was trying to get across to her.

She took one look at me, then down the hall, I knew what she was planning and I wanted to run over to her and stop her before she did. I sat helplessly in the doorframe as she met my worried gaze one more. I knew the man had left the second classroom, he would see her. In a flash she launched herself from her spot, only to slam herself back against it as a bullet was fired straight at her. My heart stopped as it hit the brickwork, only just missing her. What was she doing! I could only stare at her while willing my heart to start again as the sound of a door slamming to the ground and more bullets and more scream echoed in my ears. I tried to signal to her to run, but I knew I was too late. So was off sprinting down the hall, book bag flying behind her. I bashed my hands on the wall as a slammed my head back into it in a mix of anger, worry and frustration. I wanted to scream as I heard two more gunshots follow her down the hall.

I couldn’t stand it. It was one thing for my classmates to die, another thing for my favourite teacher. But Arden was something different. She was one of my best friends, and she is dead. I accepted her fate as I silently cried. Pulling at my hair. There is no way she could have escaped.

9:51 AM

My thoughts turn to Joe as I cry to myself, trying not to be heard. I was stuck, helpless in this classroom, as a mass killer rampaged my school. I could no longer hear any gunshots if they were still going on. The only thing I knew was that my beautiful boyfriend was in the classroom at the end of the hall. I hoped he was in lockdown, but as much as I craned my neck I couldn’t see out of the door far enough to check.

He wasn’t at school this morning and I prayed that he decided to just not show up. I wanted to text him but if he was in his classroom I didn’t want to put him in danger by setting his phone off. If he was in any sort of trouble, he would text me.

It still awed me that I was lucky enough to have him. Not to mention that Joe had been mine for three years. I was even more stunned that he loved me back to be honest, not to mention freshman Caspar. Joe has always been this angelic, stunning, little human and I’m still not sure if I have grown into my long, lanky limbs and massive ears. Yet ‘I love you’ is the first thing I hear from him every time we meet so I must be doing something right.

As soon as the police show up I will find him and hold him and never let him go. He is my beautiful baby boy and my number one priority even if I have to shield him from danger with my own body; I would do anything to keep him safe. If we both can’t make it out of this, I will make it my mission to make sure that he is the one alive. He has so much potential, much more than I do. I would never find someone even close too as good as him.

I’m whipped okay.

We have an amazing day planned for after school, which includes skipping the last two periods. Though after all of this, we might not feel like it. I would be happy if we are just both here to see it happen.

I flinch when out of the corner of my eye I see something move past the window on the other side of the classroom. I turn my whole tear stained face to see

… Kian…

… and JC…

Is that … Ricky?

9:52 AM

They slowly walk past the window. Kian grips onto JC’s shoulder and Ricky scouts the area as they sneak their way past my classroom. They must have gotten up out of their own class and left. The tension probably got too much for them. Maybe they were already out of class when it happened.

Idiots. That’s the only word I could think of to describe them. Sure they were kinda my friends, and I get that they would want to leave, but there is one guy in the hallway who just shot my entire class plus two more, and one guy can’t hold down a whole school right?

Anyway, there are probably at least three more gunmen around ready to shoot; Ricky, JC and Kian are goners.

Like with Arden, I try to signal them. JC points at me through the window and the other two turn to face me. Ricky waves me over but I furiously shake my head.

What! Is he, crazy? I’m not risking my life to try and sneak out. If I could save anyone I would, but it is impossible for me to leave my spot. I try to tell them to leave and get out of sight.

The three boys just stare at me through the window, they shrug at my gestures and smile at me. Kian waves as he puts his hand on Ricky’s back pushing them on. They walk out of the way of the window so I can no longer see them.

I start to panic. Everything is finally catching up to me. The smell, the small cramped position that I am in, the fact that I can’t leave said position. Maybe I can. I have no idea what is happening around me and my phone is over on my desk. I can’t see anyone’s texts or snap chats or Tweets or anything. It all occurs to me that there could be more killers, no police; Maybe Kian, JC and Ricky are outside safe, maybe they are already dead.

The worst part is that I’m stuck alone, with my thoughts. I can escape them just as much as I can escape this room. It’s so quiet that the only thing I can hear is the screams of the past five minutes playing over in my head.

Wait, it was quiet. Actually dead silent.

There hadn’t been a gunshot in a really long time, or at least, not one that I had heard. Did that mean it was safe?

I couldn’t take being there anymore and decided that it would be best to leave, I had missed all of the other opportunities I had been given and this could be my last one. What if he comes back?

I slowly stand, using the wall to help me up. I look at the red handprint that I had left slowly seep into the felt. However, this thing ends, it won’t be happily. So many parents have lost their children; people losing soul mates, siblings, family members, and friends…

I hear one final gunshot and jump in my spot. I freeze.

9:53 AM

I hear a scream. It sounded like the person was screaming out ‘Noooo!’ but kind of like someone’s name.

It also kind of sounded like Will.

No, YES! it was unmistakably the cry of Will Darbyshire. Did he find Arden? They weren’t together but it is so obvious how they feel. He clearly loves her.

I don’t want to think about how he would feel if he found her body. I turn my head back towards the wall where I once sat.

I think about the impact on everyone’s lives that this one man, let alone any other gunman at this school, or anywhere, has done to our community.

Who let him have a gun; WHO JUST LETS ANYONE HAVE A GUN? I slam my fist against the mark I left on the wall in anger.

I’m angry for those who had to die today; their families, and anyone who has to go back to school after this and deal with the memories of what went down on this morning.

All of those students were my friends! They were so talented, they had bright futures. They had so many people who loved them and they themselves loved so many.

I didn’t care anymore, I pulled my hair with both my hands and I let out a frustrated scream and it was almost like one thousand other voices were screaming with me.

I lifted my head from my hands to see that it wasn’t in my head. There really were people screaming with me. A class of students from the end of the hall were rampaging down it, screaming and yelling and avoiding the flailing gunfire of the man on the floor.

I lean out of the door, grabbing onto the frame to watch it. The students burst through the front door of the school to safety; cheering and whooping as they exited the crime scene.

I got swept up in it all and felt a yell strangled in my throat wanting to be let out.

I was about to let it out as the last few members of the class left the building, when the gunman stood up.

9:54 AM

I wasn’t sure if he had seen me but I dived against the door again, this time against the other side, flat against the open door itself.

I watched in horror as the man walked over to two pairs of feet trapped under a bank of lockers that must have been pushed over during the stampede.

No, no, NO! Not more death! We were good, we were safe. More people can’t die today.

I watched as I recognized a turquoise quiff belonging to one of the trapped victims. No, Not Tyler!

I Stood ready to scream. I could create a distraction. The suspense was building, almost at tipping point. I sucked in a breath as a different noise sounded from the end of the hall. The sound of multiple texts on someone’s iPhone rang through the dead silent halls. I breathed heavily as I looked from the lockers to the man to the direction of the noise. It did its job as the man dropped his gun to his side and followed it.

It wasn’t until my eyes looped back around to the noise as well that I noticed the man lift his gun again, to the head of Connor Franta.

I let out an audible whimper as I held my breath. He looked as threatening as a kitten as he kneeled on the floor. Large eyes pleading to the man for mercy. I had held my breath for so long that black spots appeared in my vision, blocking my view as I braced myself.

I shut my eyes as the last gunshot went off.

A body fell to the ground and the clank of the silver on the tiles jolted me fully awake.

Two arms scooped me off the ground and once again the confusion upon me sent the world into slow motion.

I was barely walking for myself as my feet kicked the ground. The police were practically dragging me out of the school.

I turned my head to face the body of the gunman on the floor. Lying in a pool of his own blood.

It was over.

Until the high-pitched squeal of a girl spun the world back to normal, and the worried sprints of Dan, Phil, Tanya and Jim had me break out of the policemen’s grip to follow them.

Part 2: https://teddy-parade.tumblr.com/post/155612175180/seven-minute-siege-pt-215

[heartfeltheart]

Alchemy: Little Brother’s Turn

Chapters: 1/? Fandom: Fullmetal Alchemist/Harry Potter Rating: T Relationships: Edward/Winry, Lan Fan/Ling, May/Alphonse, Severus/Charity Series: Part 3 of 9. Summary: Part 3 of the Alchemy Series. Now it is Alphonse's turn to taking over his brother's position at Hogwarts. He quickly began to realize how much...stuff... Edward left behind to figure out on his own. Like, The Boy Who Lived, Sirius Black... and a Philosopher's Stone you say? D/C: I do not own Harry Potter or Fullmetal Alchemist. Discord: La Red(Mesh Mash of… stuff.): https://discord.gg/KYjmVAb Alchemy Series: https://discord.gg/DejEYNJ

"I've gotta picture myself... as a single mass of energy. Use the energy... just like the Stone. That's it! I'm a Philosopher's Stone that's powered by a single soul! Remember... what it felt like... at that moment! Remember! How it felt to use souls... TO HARNESS LIFE!"

-.-

"For the longest time, I would have never thought this would have been possible…" Edward stared at his reflection, dressed in his wedding attire. It was made up of a three-piece tweed dark gray ensemble, that has red buttons and a black buttoned up shirt. He stood still as Roy fixed the white tie and pin to it is a clip with Teacher's symbol pinned to it. The shoes he is wearing are similar to the ones he would always wore, but the difference is that these appear to cost more than a half months' worth of salary and a matching belt.

"Marriage? Or living this long to even get married?" Roy asked, he took a step away once he was down pinning the pin on the tie and to see his work. He felt his throat tighten at the sight before him. It felt like he was helping his own son prepare for his wedding. In a way, this is what is happening before his very eyes. He, himself, the Flame Alchemist along with all the groomsmen are wearing a similar them to what Edward is wearing, the only difference is that they are not wearing the jacket or vest and opted for suspenders. "I'm still having trouble comprehending the fact you are getting married before me."

"Didn't Grumman got rid of the anti-fraternization laws?"

"He did, we are also dealing with the fact it became known that Riza is his granddaughter. Many are attempting to seek for her hand of marriage in order to get ahead in their career. We do plan to marry in spring. Heh… if were' lucky, our kids might grow up being friends."

"No. Just no."

-.-

Winry couldn't help but marvel at herself at her mother's old wedding dress, a cream silk and lace with a high neckline, crochet lace trip and golden sash tied below her chest to create a dramatic bow on the back. The sleeves were folded up above her elbows to reveal more lace underneath. The first dress of the day, her second dress is hung on her dresser on a hanger, a light gold silk net tiered dress with ribbon trimmings. The dress that Sid picked. It simple compared to her mother's dress, but it stays true to herself. "Today is the day. I'm getting married."

"One more hour, and you will be married. You still have time to run."

"Granny!"

"What? It's true."

-.-

To say that this day is a surprise or something similar to that, that would be the biggest understatement of the sanctuary. Everyone that knew the couple, knew they would end up together in one way or another. An event that many wish they could attend but it is limited and heavily guarded. Edward Elric made many enemies in his past, and is taking every precaution to ensure no one interrupted the wedding.

The guest whom were invited is a wide variety of individuals and many wondered how the bride and groom could possibly know all of them.

The Emperor of Xing.

The future Empress of Xing.

Princess of Xing.

Fuher of Amestris

The former lady of Amestris and her son.

Many high personal in the Military.

And… is that the former alchemist serial killer, officiating the wedding? Yes, yes it is…

Then there were a group that looked completely out of their comfort zone. All of them dressed weirdly, spoke a different language, and are just… off. More off than Major Armstrong wanting to hug everyone without a shirt.

"Bones."

"Malfoy."

Susan Bones and Draco Malfoy hung around the same area, waiting for the wedding to start. It ended being that Mr. Elric invited the Bones and Malfoy's to his wedding, and now both kids told by their respected family members to get along as they talk. It wasn't that they have never spoken or seen each other before. Both having relatives dealing in the world of politics and old blood.

"Have you heard of Mr. Elric's prerequisites to learn Alchemy?"

"I have. My god-father had informed me and give me the necessary material to not get caught off guard."

"Auntie Amelia is helping me too. General Armstrong said that she'll make sure I get in to learn Alchemy so I am able to counteract it."

"…What?" Draco wasn't able to hold back a squeak. "The same Armstrong that nearly decapitated more than half of the Ministry Officials?"

"Yes."

-.-

"Why am I here again?"

"We are going to introduce Ms. Hammond to you. We have to start your secession's with her and figure out if you are even capable of taking care of yourself…" Severus resisted the urge to strangle Sirius with his tie. He and everyone from the Magical World that were invited to the wedding were given, by the looks of it very expensive, formal apparel that are typical of Amestris but still appear to be not so formal enough to clash against the simplicity of the wedding. Severus is wearing a mint colored three piece suit, with the coat hung on the back of his chair, along with a matching tie. Sirius is wearing a similar suit, only that his is blue and is opting out of wearing the tie. "Along with handing the case off to Alphonse Elric, Edward's younger brother. Now go to the refreshment table."

"A what?" Sirius asked bluntly.

Severus resisted the urge the pinch the bridge of his nose. He pointed over at a table where the Mother and Father of the groom are handing out appetizers for the hungry guest. From what the Potion's Master had heard, the meat and produce are all locally grown and raised, and that the couple had taken over food portion of the wedding. Some of the foods may look or sound off, but Severus could honestly say it's better than a lot of the more… traditional he's tasted before. "Go there. They should have something for you to much on…while you wait."

"Everything they are serving looks… weird." Sirius pulled a face at seeing other guest eating their appetizers.

"Taste this, Severus!"

Severus blinked several times when he suddenly saw what appears to be a tart, and by the smells of it, onion, onion and some other spices. He reached up to move the hand away from his face but kept it close enough so that he could still observe the tart. "It looks like a mini tart, Charity."

Dressed in a short sleeved embellished empire-waist gown, Charity Burbage attempted to get her date to eat the tart. "Eat it. I want to know what it taste like."

"Why don't you eat it first then?"

"…Just eat the tart."

"Bleh… this makes me sick to my stomach." Sirius muttered under his breath at the sight before him. Never in a thousand years would he ever see Severus Snape so… romantic? Never thought he'd think of that ever, let alone seeing it in front of him.

"Sounds like you're jealous."

Sirius looked over and nearly cringed at the sight of a man whose face is heavily scared. The man paid no mind to his behavior as he just continued to stare at him. "Bloody hell don't sneak up on me."

"And? It's not like you can do anything towards me here. Edward will have your head."

"How do you know the bride and groom?"

"I only came for the free food."

-.-

"…. Elicia is best friends with Selim?" Edward questioned through is teeth at the sight of Elicia and Selim walking down the aisle, one dropping flower petals while the other is holding a pillow that held the rings.

"Gracia asked if Elicia could invite her friend, and we needed a ring boy." Roy whispered back, he nudged the groom to pay attention. "The bridesmaids are coming…"

True to his words, one by one, the bridesmaids are walking down the aisle. All of them wearing gold sequin tops with long silvery chiffon skirts, all the tops are different to each woman's preferences. Then here came the bride…

Edward swore he felt that the moment the moment he made eye contact with Winry, nothing else mattered.

-.-

By the time it was time to say the 'I do's', the sun set just at the same moment the bride and groom kissed giving the entire wedding a whimsical atmosphere. Many cried, shown pride, or just happiness for the couple that finally tied the knot. It was a long time coming.

-.-

"Should we inform the Elric's?"

"…Not the eldest… Perhaps the youngest?"

"This is a horrible idea…"

"In order to protect the stone, we must do everyone in our power to ensure its safety."

[ntrending]

The best gear and gadgets for summer camping

New Post has been published on https://nexcraft.co/the-best-gear-and-gadgets-for-summer-camping/

The best gear and gadgets for summer camping

This story originally published on FieldandStream.com

Summer is the perfect time to go camping with the family. School is out, public campgrounds across the country are open now, and, with the snow (finally) disappearing in the high country, the weather is starting to hit that sweet spot. And if you need more convincing—did you know that June is National Camping Month? And while part of the fun of camping is roughing it outside, it never hurts to bring some supplies that will make the experience more comfortable—especially if you’re camping with kids or some friends who might not be the “outdoor type.” So whether you’re car camping, taking an extended backcountry camping trip, or simply taking a quick trip for the weekend, here’s a list of gear items that will help you and your family and friends get the most out of your adventures in the outdoors.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Wise-Owl-Outfitters-Hammock-Hammocks/dp/B016CHAMX4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=0d8711251b1199789cd90552a119138c&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock with Tree Straps</a> (Wise Owl Outfitters/)

Years ago, at the advice of a good friend, I began carrying a pack hammock and tether straps in my pack whenever I hunted elk or mule deer in Idaho’s high country. During the mid-day lull, I fix it between two trees, take off my boots, lay in the cradle of the hammock, and sneak in a quick nap. Pack hammock sets, like the ones from Wise Owl are inexpensive, easy to set up and take down, and a real asset in any camp. I keep one set under the seat in my truck, just in case, but you can stash these things just about anywhere; they’re lightweight and pack down into a stuff sack that’s about the size of a big grapefruit. Made from 210T parachute nylon, the hammocks are strong and weather resilient, and there are two carabineer clips to attach it to the tethers, which are both 9-feet long.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/LEATHERMAN-Multitool-Magnetic-Locking-Accessible/dp/B07P5H9T41/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=b52d130eef63f82af1e70ca9a403a5e6&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Leatherman FREE P4</a> (Leatherman/)

The Free P4 is the latest and greatest addition to the Leatherman family. There are 21 tools on the outside of this model that pop open with the push of a button, and a magnetic lock reduces friction during deployment. Weighing just over eight ounces, the 4 ¼-inch-long tool feels great in hand and it features a pocket clip for safe keeping when not in use.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Tough-Tesla-Rechargeable-Paratinder/dp/B07KFQVPTW/ref=as_li_ss_tl?th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=582e418405aab8ccb9333996c013719e&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Waterproof Tough Tesla Lighter</a> (Survival Frog/)

I’ve been on trips where nothing seems to go the way I planned, and the lighter or matches I brought to start a campfire just weren’t working, especially in windy and wet, conditions. Survival Frog’s Tesla lighter is a great solution in tough situations. Rather than rely on gas or wood to hold a flame, the Tesla creates a double arc of electricity that can ignite anything flammable. What’s more, it’s rechargeable via a USB port, and works up to 300 times between charges. It also has a 10-second time-out to prevent accidents, and it comes on a lanyard that’s also attached to an emergency whistle.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/SAMMART-Gallon-Collapsible-Plastic-Bucket/dp/B07DDHP784/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=24e9443146f33344c95b880a2e124948&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>SAMMART Collapsible Bucket</a> (SAMMART/)

One of the most important things to remember at the conclusion of any camping trip is to drown out any remaining flames or hot coals from your campfire. In years past, I’ve filled up 2-liter bottles, or any other sort of container I could dig out of the trash, to transport water from the campground water pump to the fire ring. I’ve since upgraded to a collapsible bucket like the one from Sammart. Compressed, it’s just 13-inches round and 2 ½ inches tall; extended it’s almost 10 inches tall and can hold 2 ½ gallons of water. The plastic is BPA free in case you need to transport potable water, and the handle is thick and solid, which makes carrying a full pail just a little easier.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hydro-Flask-Insulated-Stainless-32-Ounce/dp/B01GW2H09S/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=880dfbdb21f44b38e8f6f3a96436c7c4&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Hydro Flask with Straw Lid</a> (Hydro Flask/)

An important consideration on any camping trip is hydration. Instead of paying for water bottled in unhealthy plastic carafes, consider a safer and environmentally-friendly canteen like those from Hydro Flask. Each bottle has a grippy, powder-coated finish, double-walled insulation, and a non-toxic stainless steel reservoir. Add a wide-mouth straw lid, and you have the perfect companion for hiking, boating, fishing, or any other excursion you embark on from camp.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/GSI-Outdoors-Commuter-JavaPress-Backcountry/dp/B00T3WH2QQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=f35ca38e4339fc119dc89e0fc6d8a61d&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>GSI Outdoors Commuter Javapress</a> (GSI Outdoors/)

One of my favorite little pleasures in life is rolling out of my sleeping bag on a cool, crisp morning, and enjoying a fresh cup of coffee. And while I’ve tried preparing it with all sorts of different devices and accessories, a simple French press consistently produces the best cup of Joe. The Commuter JavaPress from GSI takes the French-press concept a step farther by replacing the sliding rod with a sliding inner carafe. Simply add the coffee into the bottom of the outer mug, add hot water, and slide the carafe inside. Small ports in the bottom let water through while keeping the grounds out. The lid is spill-resistant, a rubber foot prevents the mug from sliding, and a cloth sleeve insulates your drink until you’re finished.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/WolfWise-Dressing-Portable-Changing-Backpack/dp/B01FXNRA42/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=d6643e2a705317b0d1cc1ae095b6e55f&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>WolfWise Pop-up Shower Tent</a> (WolfWise/)

I am not fond of showers, and anyone that’s spent any time with me in elk camp, knows I’m not lying. But there is something to be said for occasionally washing off the stink now and then. If you’re not blessed with a camp trailer or some other rigged apparatus to spray warm water, a pop-up shower tent, like the one from WolfWise, might be for you. Deployed, this single-person stall creates privacy and is roomy enough to hang a portable shower bag and shower head. When you’re not bathing, you can use the tent as an outhouse for your portable toilet.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Drysure-Extreme-Boot-Dryer-Snowboarding/dp/B075QM3R5K/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=c4add08d29fcd9655fc9c93c1c6b0b4f&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Drysure Extreme Boot Dryer</a> (Drysure/)

Cold and soggy boots can make life miserable, but when you’re far from an electrical connection, drying footwear is tough—if not impossible. The Extreme Boot Dryers from Drysure are a good alternative when you don’t have a powered dryer. Slip one into each boot at the end of the day, and when you wake up the next morning, they’ll be dry. Drysure says the devices make boot-drying 12x more effective than just air alone, and help keep odors, fungus, or bacteria from building up inside. The inserts are typically good for up to 10 drying sessions before you’ll want to reactivate them in direct sunlight, on a warm radiator, or inside a fan-assisted oven (100 degrees) for one to two hours. They’re safe for all shoes and boots and won’t damage leather or custom-made footwear like some heated dryers can.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019NMTVH8/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=f3507e452ae15139051cf26be03ca0ce&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>ORCA Chasertini Martini Cup</a> (ORCA/)

After camp is set up, the campfire is glowing, and the kids are getting ready to make s’mores, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying an adult beverage. If you like to enjoy sipping a martini or margarita in the great outdoors, the Chasertini is just what the doctor ordered. It has a large bowl (8-ounces) and a sealed lid to prevent the accidental spill. The upper is double-walled, vacuum-sealed stainless steel, and the inside of the cup is copper clad, which will keep your drink cold for hours—not that you will need that long to finish your cocktail.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Outdoors-Longer-Origin-Survival/dp/B007RN33V6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=4d3931d794ec67688daedc64fdd23b7c&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Adventure Medical Kits SOL Origin Survival Tool</a> (Adventure Medical Kits/)

Nobody wants to find themselves in a survival situation, but even the slightest bit prepared-for-the-worst planning boosts your odds of making it back to civilization alive. The Survive Outdoors Loner (SOL) kit is small, light, and designed to fit inside a small pouch in your pack. It contains a knife, sewing needle and pins, fish hooks and line, aluminum foil, a fire starter, signal mirror, compass, LED light and whistle, and a handful of other useful tools. Weighing just six ounces, everything fits into a small, indestructible plastic box.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018YJQTJY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=842ae6d7646ff1d9d55e7fde45b7f490&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>CampSpark 34-inch Telescoping Roasting Sticks</a> (Kelv/)

If you’ve ever spent any time in a popular campground, you might notice the lack of firewood—and suitable marshmallow roasting sticks—available on the forest floor. To keep the kids from getting disappointed, bring along some CampSpark Telescoping Roasting Sticks. A set of four comes in a heat-resistant canvas bag for easy storing. Extended, the sticks are 34-inches long to keep kids a safe distance from the fire, and each one has two prongs on the end to hold two marshmallows, or hot dogs, or whatever other roasting combination you can come up with. Made from stainless steel, these skewers are easy to clean, reusable, and come with a bonus e-book containing 10 marshmallow recipes.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Collapsible-Brightest-Lighting-Flashlight-Rechargeable/dp/B013UCC65G/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=757d7b585e79ff9717caa0e0f63cb7c0&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>SUAOKI Collapsible LED Camp Light</a> (SUAOKI/)

The advent of LED lights has made camping life in the dark bright and inexpensive (LED bulbs don’t use as much battery power compare to halogen bulbs. LED lights and power sources are so light, some tent makers are incorporating small bulb strings on the inside of the frame. If you’re not ready for a tent upgrade but still need a light, consider the collapsible clover-style light from SUAOKI. Under each arm are six small LED bulbs (18 total) with low, high, and blinking settings. You can prop the unit on all three legs for a tabletop lantern, or use the attached hook to hang it on a tent ceiling. It charges via a USB cord and packs down to the size of a smartphone. But probably the best feature of this little light are the three solar panels located on the reverse side of the LEDs. In an emergency situation or for those places where you don’t have electricity to recharge the battery, you can use the sun to reenergize the device.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000F38YHI/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=d421616bf342b40e4b6787a4b105d0d9&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>TETON Sports Mammoth Queen-size Sleeping Bag</a> (TETON Sports/)

It doesn’t matter if you’re overnighting out of the back of your vehicle on some designated space, or trekking for miles into the backcountry with four days worth of supplies on your back, a sleeping bag is just one of those items that goes hand-in-hand with camping. Depending on the adventure, I’ve done both, and can honestly say I have multiple sleeping bags suited for different occasions. Typically, when I have the family in tow, I like a thick, heavy, soft bag that feels as good as my flannel sheets at home. Teton’s Mammoth bag is exactly that. Rated for either 20 or 0 degrees and measuring 94×62 inches, it’s slightly larger than the average queen-sized mattress. It weighs just over 16 pounds (which doesn’t really matter if you’re car-camping) and packs down in an included stuff sack to roughly the size of a sack of potatoes. It’s a great option if you like to spread out while you sleep, or you’re snoozing with your significant other on an inflatable pad.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Country-Archer-Grass-Fed-Sriracha-Jalapeno/dp/B078PZ3V6H/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=7452fc462a09efee11476d7d983c3b9e&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Country Archer Jerky Variety Pack</a> (Country Archer/)

When I’m bivy camping or just hiking and hunting in general, there are two things that are always in my pack—trail mix and jerky. Nothing beats homemade jerky, but if I’m running low at home and have to purchase a few bags, I like Country Archer jerky. What I like about Country Archer is they’ve broken free from the standard teriyaki, peppered, and other common flavors that all of the brands stick to, and created their own unique flavors like crushed red pepper, sweet jalapeño, and Sriracha.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Static-Lightweight-Sleeping-Green/dp/B007RFG0NM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=65e7fe5e9b511ce0a8806edca7b9cd2f&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Klymit Static V Sleeping Pad</a> (Klymit/)

My favorite way to rest in camp is atop a cot, but a thick sleeping pad is a close second. A good pad creates an insulated buffer between a sleeping bag and the ground (which can rob body heat) and is gentle on the back, hips, and muscles that might be stiff and sore at the end of the day. You can easily spend over $100 on a pad, but you don’t need to. Klymit makes a thick, lightweight pad for half the price. Deflated and in its 3×8-inch pack sack, a Static V pad weighs just over 1 pound and inflates to a whopping 72×23-inch sleeping area that’s 2 ½ inches thick. Made from thick polyester, it has an anti-microbial laminate that prevents the spread of fungus and bacteria, and it inflates with just a few breaths of air.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Jetboil-Genesis-Burner-Stove-Size/dp/B019GPCYDK/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=7d7a5723771af1de228a60c00ea7fbe2&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Jetboil Genesis Basecamp Camping Stove</a> (Jetboil/)

I’ve been a fan of the Jetboil single burner water-boiling setup for a long time because it’s lightweight and brings water to a boil faster than anything I’ve used before. More recently, I’ve found another Jetboil product, the Genesis Basecamp stove, that is equally useful when it comes to camp cooking. Closed, the unit fits in small spaces and weighs just over 6 pounds. But open the clamshell design and there are two small stoves capable of putting out 10,000 BTUs—enough heat to boil water in less than three minutes. There’s a windscreen to improve the burner’s performance, and you can power it with a 16-ounce propane tank.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/SOTO-Soto-Pocket-Torch-2019/dp/B005G3PQJQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=1836d5caacc309d029fbf19475914205&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Soto Pocket Torch</a> (Soto/)

Starting a fire in wet or windy conditions can be a frustrating experience. Even if your fuel is dry and resting on a nice bed of kindling, matches or disposable lighters still might not produce a sustainable flame. But you can turn just about any disposable lighter into a blue-flaming torch with a Pocket Torch adapter from Soto. Simply slip a lighter into the sleeve, attach the cap, press on the top button, and it will turn the lighter’s weak flare into a blazing, wind-resistant igniter capable of reaching temperatures over 2,000 degrees.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Motorola-Talkabout-T800-Two-Way-Radios/dp/B07HRSP2ZV/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=d0cd0192539e231df91409ef76c16b2a&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Motorola T800 Two-way Radios</a> (Motorola/)

When Motorola first debuted their Talkabout two-way radios decades ago, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a set. I used them to stay in touch with my hunting buddies, coordinate float trips down rivers, and stay in touch with home. Every year since, Motorola’s technology took a step forward, and now, with the T800 models, users have the option of Bluetooth connectivity and off-grid messaging or broadcasting. The company says these latest models have a 35-mile voice range, and 20-mile data range and with 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, there are 662 available ways to have a conversation. Each radio also provides real-time weather updates, time, and LED flashlight, and can recharge via USB.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Tailgating-Collapsible-Insulated-Barbecue-Tailgate/dp/B01DCIKFNI/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=18623a9e3df31ba7f3dfb1d05f740d13&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow�� title=””>Camerons Products Tailgating Table</a> (Camerons Products/)

One of my father’s favorite lines in camp is, “Hold my beer and watch this,” which is typically followed by some act of idiocy. But with Camerons’ Tailgaiting Table, I can stash his beverage and mine so my hands are free to react to whatever foolishness is sure to come my way. The table expands in four directions and provides four cupholders, and mesh basket for food or anything else you want handy, and a zippered “bucket” that sits low to the ground and is perfect for keeping cans on ice. It’s light, easy to carry, and has tension straps to make the most stable surface possible and sturdy feet that don’t sink into the ground.

<a href=”https://www.amazon.com/Woods-Insect-Repellent-Ounce-Spray/dp/B00GJWJI88/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=popularscience-20&linkId=39b5421107c6f7346929c9cd3cf8abc5&language=en_US” rel=”nofollow” title=””>Deep Woods OFF!</a> (OFF!/)

When it comes to biting bugs, my blood must taste sweeter than the average person because I’m a magnet for mosquitoes. Deep Woods OFF! has saved my neck, arms, and legs from becoming a bug buffet many times. A 6-ounce aerosol can contains just 25 percent DEET, which is less (and less toxic) than many other sprays that can contain up to 100 percent, and because it offers up to 8-hours of protection, you don’t need to constantly reapply it. However, one word of caution: Remember that DEET can cause chemical reactions to many types of plastics, so when you spray, be sure to keep it from contacting things like nylon clothing, fishing lines, and sunglasses.

Written By By Ben Romans/Field and Stream

[brokestudy]

Let's get personal.

1: 6 of the songs you listen to most? (In order) Whatever It Takes by Imagine Dragons Guilty Pleasure by Bryce Vine No Grass Today By AJR Honeybee by Public Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran White Teeth Teens by Lorde 2: If you could meet anyone on this earth, who would it be? If I could meet anyone I would love to meet Anna Kendrick because I am such a huge fan and I think she is amazing. 3: Grab the book nearest to you, turn to page 23, give me line 17. The book nearest to me is The View From The Top by Hilary Frank and the line is "But she had to keep quiet. Her little twin sisters were asleep on the other side of the room." 4: What do you think about most? I think the most about death and money. Like how little money I have and how little time left in this Earth I have left. I also spend a great deal of time thinking about how much I hate my little sister. 5: What does your latest text message from someone else say? It is from my mother and it says "R u n bed" 6: Do you sleep with or without clothes on? I sleep with clothes on, usually. 7: What's your strangest talent? I know every line in The Breakfast Club and I know ever song in Bob's Burgers. 8: Girls... (finish the sentence); Boys... (finish the sentence) "Girls are from mars, boys are from Venus. I've got a yum-yum you've got a penis." 9: Ever had a poem or song written about you? Yes, actually, my seventh grade, and first ever, boyfriend wrote me a poem that my mom threw away when I left it on the table on accident. 10: When is the last time you played the air guitar? 2015 New Years, I was so young. 11: Do you have any strange phobias? I don't like clowns or spiders or heights or public speaking or meeting new people or sharing personal things or having people not like me or ... 12: Ever stuck a foreign object up your nose? No... 13: What's your religion? I am a proud atheist 14: If you are outside, what are you most likely doing? If I go outside I'm either swimming or reading. 15: Do you prefer to be behind the camera or in front of it? Behind the camera, definitely. 16: Simple but extremely complex. Favorite band? Currently, AJR because they only have one song that I don't love. 17: What was the last lie you told? I'm not in bed (in reply to my mothers text when she called me) 18: Do you believe in karma? In a way yes, i believe that every action has consequences or rewards. 19: What does your URL mean? It's my name? 20: What is your greatest weakness; your greatest strength? I'm terrible at sports, but I seem to be pretty good at taking science tests. 21: Who is your celebrity crush? My celebrity crush is definitely either a young Leonardo DiCaprio or Johnny Depp. 22: Have you ever gone skinny dipping? Yes I have, often. 23: How do you vent your anger? I scream, punch things, rip things, and write. 24: Do you have a collection of anything? Books. Lotsssssssss of books. 25: Do you prefer talking on the phone or video chatting online? I prefer video chatting because it's closer to in person. 26: Are you happy with the person you've become? I'm getting to be. 27: What's a sound you hate; sound you love? I hate the sound of styrofoam be rubbed by other Styrofoam. I love the sound of cars or lawnmowers. 28: What's your biggest "what if"? "What if I was famous?" Because I'm not so sure I'd enjoy being famous but on the other hand, I'd be famous. 29: Do you believe in ghosts? How about aliens? Nope and nope. 30: Stick your right arm out; what do you touch first? Do the same with your left arm. To the right I touch my armoire and to the left I touch my night stand. 31: Smell the air. What do you smell? I smell nail polish. 32: What's the worst place you have ever been to? My dead grandmothers house because she had been dead for 10 years and her house was full or random shit because she's been a hoarder. So we could barely move and everything was molding. It was gross. 33: Choose: East Coast or West Coast? East coast 34: Most attractive singer of your opposite gender? Adam Levine 35: To you, what is the meaning of life? The meaning of life is to try new things and meet new people. To just live. 36: Define Art. Art is life, it drives everything we do and is the most important thing in our day to day life. 37: Do you believe in luck? Sure. 38: What's the weather like right now? Sunny and 70. It's a little breezy so it's perfect. 39: What time is it? 12:17 pm 40: Do you drive? If so, have you ever crashed? I don't have my permit but I have driven. Never been in an accident. 41: What was the last book you read? Roanoke: the last colony By Lee Miller. 42: Do you like the smell of gasoline? I LIVE FOR IT. 43: Do you have any nicknames? My older sister calls me rookie and several people call me Brooklyn. As a child I was boo-bear, pig pin, and pumpkin. 44: What was the last film you saw? I watched Everything, Everything. 45: What's the worst injury you've ever had? I sprained my right ankle in the third grade. 46: Have you ever caught a butterfly? Yes, at my zoo they had an exhibit. 47: Do you have any obsessions right now? Dodie Clark's vlogs. I can't stop watching, I also have gotten a thing for studblrs so. 48: What's your sexual orientation? I am a bisexual 49: Ever had a rumour spread about you? Yes, apparently I'm quite a bitch. 50: Do you believe in magic? Nope. 51: Do you tend to hold grudges against people who have done you wrong? Yes I do. Unless they apologize then I'm gonna be mad for ever. 52: What is your astrological sign? I am a Virgo. 53: Do you save money or spend it? I am a huge cheapskate and save save save money. 54: What's the last thing you purchased? Like 7 books for $18, it was a huge deal. Major mark down. 55: Love or lust? Right now lust. 56: In a relationship? A relationship is work, it's getting out what you put in and loving your partner in their worst as well as their best. Makeup or not they are always gonna be the one you want to be with. 57: How many relationships have you had? Five relationships but two of them was with the same guy, however, there was someone in between us getting back together and breaking up again. 58: Can you touch your nose with your tongue? No I can not, I have a short tongue. 59: Where were you yesterday? At my house. 60: Is there anything pink within 10 feet of you? Yes my Jam Speaker, a ruler, a hair brush that doesn't have a handle, and a cupcake piggy bank. 61: Are you wearing socks right now? No I am not. 62: What's your favourite animal? Polar bears. 63: What is your secret weapon to get someone to like you? I smile and laugh a lot. Basically your supposed to mimic they're expressions and that's makes them like you more. 64: Where is your best friend? Her house. 65: Give me your top 5 favourite blogs on Tumblr. Mine, mine, mine, mine, and my studyblr. 66: What is your heritage? I am Native American and a bunch of other stuff. 67: What were you doing last night at 12AM? Sleeping. 68: What do you think is Satan's last name? Trump. 69: Be honest. Ever gotten yourself off? Yes I have, I'm human. 70: Are you the kind of friend you would want to have as a friend? Not really because I'm very protective and weird so no. 71: You are walking down the street on your way to work. There is a dog drowning in the canal on the side of the street. Your boss has told you if you are late one more time you get fired. What do you do? SAVE THE DOG. 72: You are at the doctor’s office and she has just informed you that you have approximately one month to live. a) Do you tell anyone/everyone you are going to die? b) What do you do with your remaining days? c) Would you be afraid? I Wouldn't tell anyone because I'm very private and don't want people to know so I'd keep it all in and write letters to them that'd they get after I died. I would write up my will, go skydiving, go on a spending spree, and visit my grandparents grave to talk and cry and shit. I would be terrified, because I don't want to die. I don't think anybody really does, or maybe they do I don't know, but I don't. So I'd keep it in and cry alone. 73: You can only have one of these things; trust or love. Trust because I can't love someone I don't trust, I don't want to. 74: What's a song that always makes you happy when you hear it? Guilty Pleasures by Bryce Vine or anything by AJR or Public. 75: What are the last four digits in your cell phone number? 2478 76: In your opinion, what makes a great relationship? Trust. 77: How can I win your heart? You can talk to me, all the time. You don't have to buy me things, I have enough. You have to love me, all the time. I have to trust you, make me want to trust you. 78: Can insanity bring on more creativity? Not the good kind. 79: What is the single best decision you have made in your life so far? To be happy. 80: What size shoes do you wear? 9, I have large feet. 81: What would you want to be written on your tombstone? My name and date. Maybe something about how loved I was. I don't really know. 82: What is your favourite word? Colour spelled the British way. 83: Give me the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word; heart. Beat. 84: What is a saying you say a lot? "We go from womb to tomb, from one darkness to another. Remembering very little of one and nothing of the other." 85: What's the last song you listened to? Rain by The Script. 86: Basic question; what's your favourite colour/colours? Lavender. 87: What is your current desktop picture? Snow I think. I was a present I haven't changed. 88: If you could press a button and make anyone in the world instantaneously explode, who would it be? Donald trump, or if it's personal then this bitch from the 10th grade named Hailey (or her best friend austin, i can't decide.) 89: What would be a question you'd be afraid to tell the truth on? Are you a good person? 90: One night you wake up because you heard a noise. You turn on the light to find that you are surrounded by MUMMIES. The mummies aren't really doing anything, they're just standing around your bed. What do you do? Move slowly to an exit. 91: You accidentally eat some radioactive vegetables. They were good, and what's even cooler is that they endow you with the super-power of your choice! What is that power? Super knowledge. 92: You can re-live any point of time in your life. The time-span can only be a half-hour, though. What half-hour of your past would you like to experience again? The half hour when I got my dog. 93: You can erase any horrible experience from your past. What will it be? My grandmother dying. 94: You have the opportunity to sleep with the music-celebrity of your choice. Who would it be? The drums guy from Public. I love him. 95: You just got a free plane ticket to anywhere. You have to depart right now. Where are you gonna go? New York. 96: Do you have any relatives in jail? Not to my knowledge 97: Have you ever thrown up in the car? Yes I was terribly sick and had taken pepto bismo, which didn't help. And I threw up all pink in my mothers old van. 98: Ever been on a plane? No I haven't. 99: If the whole world were listening to you right now, what would you say? Hello world, how've you been? Good to see you my old friend. Also, America, get your head out of your ass and realize Donald Trump is an idiot who doesn't deserve to be president.

[tpohappiness-blog]

Days of Happiness: Day Twenty-Seven

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Days of Happiness: Day Twenty-Seven

Days of Happiness: Day Twenty-Seven

The 30 days of Happy Thoughts series is inspired by the International Day of Happiness (March 20th, 2017).

Today’s Motivational Video

Today’s Happy Thought

National Nutrition Month® Tidbits

March is also National Nutrition Month®! Eating healthy is important to your happiness too!

Check out this week’s game here.

Check out this week’s NNM video here.

Day of Happiness Celebrations: Q&A

Happiness means different things to different people, what does Happiness mean to you? 

Happiness to me is:

Being comfortable with the decisions I’ve made with few regrets. I try to learn from past mistakes but regret is counterproductive.

The freedom to make my own choices and control my life as much possible. This can be the result of luck, preparation and work, and it is one of the most important indicators of happiness to me. No one will mistake me for Mr. Rogers or Bob Ross, but I am generally optimistic. I almost always believe that things will work out. Often I take action to influence an outcome, and that influence happiness.

  Do you believe happiness is an emotion or more of a state of mind?

Great question. My first reaction was that happiness is a passive emotion, and that’s probably true to a small extent. But I think happiness is a state of mind that we influence.  For instance, when surrounded by negative, whiny people, I get grumpy and negative myself. So by minimizing contact with these people I am directly controlling my state of mind. Maybe “happy” should be used as a verb, like so many other former nouns in modern business vernacular. If we can “source” some wood to build a shelf, or if we can “message” something to our teams, then why can’t we “happy” ourselves into contentment?

People living in the worst poverty or with terrible illness can be happy, and wealthy people can be miserable. A quote often attributed to Abraham Lincoln sums it up: “Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be”.

  Do you consider being happy important to you? Why?

Absolutely.  As I said above, I believe that we play a large part in determining our own happiness.  We only get a short time on this planet, so why waste it grumbling and complaining like Eyore? I try to spend my time doing what I want to do and minimizing things that I “have” to do.

  What do you consider a fundamental barrier to Happiness in your life?

When I expose myself to too much news and media, my outlook suffers. Mrs. Grumby and I purposely went on a low information diet a couple of years ago and that made a huge difference in our outlook. We decided that can stay informed without subjecting ourselves to nonstop “breaking news” and fear-mongering that sells papers and attracts viewers.

  How important is wealth and money to your own happiness? 

Money is very important because it enhances my freedom. It is a means to an end, a tool that allows me to travel and enjoy the life that I want. We have both been fortunate to have earned good incomes over the years, and due to Mrs. Grumby’s natural frugality and discipline, we saved enough to retire 12 years (me) and 19 years (Mrs. G) earlier than most people. That is a huge benefit.

I will say, however, that some of the best times and experiences I have had were when I was broke. I took an amazing three-month dirt-bag road trip to Alaska in 1992 with just a few hundred dollars to my name. When I was in college, I worked nights and weekends to pay for peanut butter, Pringles, beer and tuition. It was great!

I can be relatively content regardless of my financial situation, but having money opens up many possibilities.

The word “wealth” is often used to describe status based on fancy possessions and supposed financial resources. In that respect, wealth is not important to me. I don’t give a crap about impressing anyone with expensive cars or Tag Heuer watches.

  How important is health and wellness to happiness? 

Health and wellness are more important that wealth and money. Mrs. G and I are very active and eat as healthily as possible. This lifestyle gives us a much better chance at doing the things we like to do, like riding our bikes and hiking. If I had a trillion dollars but was out of shape and sick, I’d be miserable. Speaking of wellness, Mrs. Grumby began daily meditation about two years ago and her sense of well being has increased, and she has seen a dramatic reduction in some chronic pain she was experiencing. I am learning how to meditate and have already seen benefits, although I kind of suck at it at this point.

  What has been the happiest moment in your life?

I have been very lucky in my life, so this is a hard one. Our destination wedding in Homer, Alaska with a few friends and family members was great. The reception that followed a couple months later in Portland was also fantastic. There are many.

    Do you have any specific goals or resolutions for 2017?  If so, would your share your top two that directly relate to your own Pursuit of Happiness?

One important goal this year is to continue divesting nonessential possessions in preparation for our early retirement date in May of 2018. The post-retirement plan is to ride our bicycles all over the US, and maybe beyond for a couple of years when we retire, so it will be important that we store only what is absolutely necessary.

A second goal for me is to try to appreciate the moment. That sounds a bit new agey for me, but I tend to focus on what’s next and forget to be in the moment.

  Do you consider giving to others or charity work an important part of your own Pursuit and why?

We donate to several organizations that resonate with us and we also do some volunteer work. This year we will probably establish a Donor Advised Fund (DAF), which is kind of a mini trust fund that we establish from which donations to qualified charities can be made.

  What 2 things have you learned in your own pursuit that you would like to share with others?

Simplify your life by reducing spending and time spent on unfulfilling tasks and work. If I could go back 20 years I would forego new cars and lifestyle spending, and would instead save aggressively for F-you money (a term coined by Jim Collins as the amount of money you need to leave your job if necessary, without going broke).

In his great novel Lonesome Dove, Larry McMurtry wrote “The hardest thing on earth is choosing what matters.” Choose to be happy and you will be. Surround yourself with positive people and know what you are grateful for. Be an optimist. Use happy as a verb. Ok, maybe not that last one.

  If you could recommend only three websites/books/articles to anyone reading this, what would they be, and why?

Money Mustache mrmoneymustache.com was the first blog that really resonated with me. I devoured his entire blog, 3 or 4 years worth of posts, in a couple of weeks and shared it with my wife. Although we were already pretty frugal, this blew us away and it really changed our lives. I can’t recommend it highly enough. It was life changing. There are many other excellent, well-written and informative FI/Lifestyle blogs out there as well.

The Simple Path to Wealth, by Jim Collins, who writes a well-known FI blog. If happiness is associated with simplification, and I say is, this book and his blog present logical and simple strategies for anyone to manage their portfolios without expensive money financial planners.

Mrs. Grumby is an avid fan of No Mud, No Lotus by Thich Nahat Hanh. This book was the catalyst to starting her meditation practice. One of his quotes is, “The secret to happiness is to acknowledge and transform suffering, not to run away from it.”

  What is your blog/website address and theme (if you want to share) for 2017?

Grumbysonthemove.com

Grumbys on the Move – Our Adventures in Downsizing is the story of how we began re-mapping our route to the American Dream by questioning commonly held beliefs about home ownership, possessions and priorities. We have downsized our stuff and upsized our portfolio and happiness. 2017 will focus on plans for our upcoming early retirement date (early 2018!) and some frugal travel plans.

We are in our mid-40’s (Mrs.) and early 50’s (Mr.) and plan to exit the workforce in mid 2018. We began our lives together as Mr. and Mrs. Grumby in 2008 with a retirement portfolio of $80,000 and home equity of about $200,000.  After paying off our final non-mortgage debt of $40,000 (Mr.Grumby’s student loan) in 2009, we started looking into ways to save aggressively so that we could ditch the 9-5 before we’re 65.  Over the past 8 years we have been very fortunate to earn salaries that have allowed us to meet our aggressive savings goals. And because we focus on managing and prioritizing expenses, it is totally do-able to enjoy ourselves along the way. 

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