#lake bottom cleaning tools
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NOAA finally has a predictive map to show how water levels in Michigan/the great lakes region could adjust with climate change. (Having a hell of a time finding the link to the actual tool, but i think its this one.) I'm really interested in this bc for YEARS everyone has said "coastal regions will be the most affected" but also that "the great lakes will be relatively protected" in the same breath. Really, the only prediction I've seen is that we will get hella climate refugees from the drought-ridden areas. In fact, some people I've spoken with have had an outright blase attitude about how climate change is going to hit Michigan.
I've been trying to find info about the coastlines and weather changing for four YEARS and haven't been able to find anything other than "no one knows, but NOAA is watching it." NOAA has a fuckton of really interesting sea vessels and research initiatives around here btw! I follow their aurora forecast religiously, they have all kinds of ROVs that explore the formations and sinkholes ans shipwrecks at the bottoms of the lakes, and now this, which I've obviously been waiting for someone to address.
If you live in the coastal region of Michigan you can SEE it happening in real time. Cliffs eroding, homes spilling into the sea, the shoreline and water levels changing dramatically between seasons. When I was a kid, there were yards and yards worth of beach and dunes to walk across to get to the water. Like easily half a block or more. When I came back in 2020, there was about 6 feet of beach. In just 4 years, the water levels have gone back and forth so much that it goes from being like this- so flooded there's no more beach- to Hamlin Lake this spring, following the extreme lack of snowfall:
My parents took these a few weeks ago. This is a lake, not a river or a creek. This is typically a BEACH. There is a dam on the far side of this lake. There are boardwalks to walk across the water and places where usually, you'd be able to kayak or canoe under the bridge. This campground is one of the most sought after, highest rated campgrounds in the entire United States. You have to reserve on New Years the minute they open registration to get a site.
Tbf Hamlin Lake is enormous, but the part that's dry.... is also not small, and its THE spot, right at the campsite. I highlighted it here.
Seeing it this dry is at least as shocking as going to lake michigan and seeing the water level randomly get so high you can't even put a towel down. It's at least as shocking as how unbelievably violent the wind and weather has gotten, how common gale force winds strong enough to shake houses and tear off siding are, the way they cannot reliably predict even normal weather on the coast anymore. The way the popup storms loom, undetected on the radar. It's at least as shocking as watching the dunes get smaller and smaller and cleave apart the more erosion they undergo, the more people that walk on them, watching the dunegrass and the scraggly beach trees straining at the roots to hold the earth together. It's at least as shocking as every time I've seen they clear cut a new swath of national forest for cabin rentals. We can't keep doing this. We can't keep doing this we can't keep doing this.
Anyway, this is just your friendly reminder that the Great Lakes ARE, in fact, part of America's coastal region. they are inland, freshwater seas rather than "lakes" as the names imply, and they, too, cannot remain unchanged by global warming.
Remember this when you think about the six YEARS it took for Flint to get clean water.
Just some food for thought.
#me#home#climate change#us politics#it was colonizers calling them lakes. do you think those guys knew fuck shit about anything.#the french ones no less.#pere marquette had his filthy little hands all OVER this region#michigan
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When The Lake Thawed Out: Chapter 3
Summary: In 1993, a young man goes missing near a lake in his hometown; the town heartbroken and having lost a spark in their lives. Now, after 30 years of unanswered questions, he comes home in one of the most intense heatwaves to ever hit the town of Little Franconia, seeing that things are the same and different. In this tale of discovery and family, watch as Joshua relearns the world around him and adjusts to the nuances of pop culture, technology, and generational rot.
Writer's Whining: O... M... GOODNESS. I am soooooo sorry for not getting this chapter out sooner. But I'm back and ready to give you some good-ass GVF content! This chapter did kick my ass because it had been so long since I entered this world and what I wanted to do with it.
Warning(s): Lucifer's Lettuce (if you get my drift 💨🍃), Nostalgia.
Word Count: 1789
@List: @ohgodthefeeling-gvf @asparrowofthedawn @obetrolncocktails, @fallonfatality, @wetkleenex-gvf, @takenbythemadness, @heatsaboves @joshym, @freyjalw, @gvf23 @basiccortez @alwaysonthemend @losfacedevil @puzzle-gvf @sinsofstardust @glorpa
The homeless shelter was filled with many lost souls, taking the form of befallen people who had hit rock bottom. Some were experienced and seasoned in their suffering; others were innocuous but felt the dread of the unknown that would await them. Lines led to a larger arena, where several barbers were dedicating their services for free to the people here.
"Next," said a bald and tatted man with gloves on his hands. A male had strolled to the chair, sat down, and had his fingers interlaced. He looked tired, eyes heavy and slouched. He had looked clean, but his arm and wrist had bandages. The young man's hair was pulled into a small ponytail, significant matting present. "What are we working with today, buddy?"
"My hair… it's getting too hard to manage, and I don't think I have the strength to handle it," he said, his hand on his arm. "Please cut it off."
"Let me see if I can save some of it," the tatted barber man said, soon working his magic. He had slowly but surely untangled some of his hair, his dark curls returning to life. "So what's going with you?" the barber asked.
"Just staying in this lovely establishment," he said, sounding chipper despite his state of being. "But it won't be long. I'm trying to find my younger brother…"
"Is that so," the other passively responded. "Well, I'm sure you'll find him." He had washed thoroughly, the water looking slightly dull. With another wash, the man had a clean slate to work with. "What style do you want your hair, buddy?"
"Style?" the disadvantaged one said, puzzled by his asking.
"How do you want me to cut your hair?" the other asked differently, his scissors in one hand and a lock of hair in the other. "Or do you feel like starting over.."
The male looked around, seeing everyone getting their hair cut. "Do whatever you want on the side... but I want my curls on the top to show... please?"
"Ask, and you shall receive," the tatted male began the task at hand. He began to cut his hair, the wet locks falling to the ground. He started to trim the sides and fixed any frayed strands after grabbing a mirror. "What do you think?"
The other had looked at himself in the mirror. The young man's hair was short around on the sides, the back of his hair short but tapered up into the wet curls that sat on his crown and forehead. The most dominant parts of his face were his ears and jawline now. "Thank you… thank you so much."
"What's your name, buddy?" the tatted male asked as he began to clean his tools for the next person.
"I'm Josh… Josh Kiszka."
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The Kiszka household was quiet. Everything was in its place, from the appliances in the kitchen to an easy tv guide in the living room. Jamie was in his room listening to music, specifically Miley Cyrus's take on Heart of Glass by Blondie. It was ambiance to him, not caring for the song or the artist.
It was just music to him.
He reached into his dresser and pulled out a vape, taking the mouthpiece to his lips and taking a few puffs before letting out a nice, thick ball of smoke. He took his pillow and began to flap it around and try to get rid of the smoke in the room. Grabbing some air freshener, he sprayed around the area to cover his tracks. He returned to the bed and laid down, closing his eyes and immersing himself.
Sam soon entered the room, the older sibling looking up and seeing him in shorts and a tank top. "Hey Jamie, I gotta ask you a favor," he told him, rubbing the back of his neck.
"That depends… gimme five bucks," Jamie's smirk plastered across his face.
"What? Dude, no way," he told him right back to him.
"Then ask Dad," Jamie said, returning to his idle listening session.
"That's the thing… I can't ask him," Sam told Jamie.
Jamie soon paused the music and looked at Sam. "What is it that you can't tell Dad?" he asked.
"I thought you wanted five bucks," Sam jeered.
"You can buy me food then," Jamie said, looking at him and waiting for him to listen. "What's the favor?"
"Okay… I wanna go and hang out with Daniel, but I know Dad is going to have you escort me and shit," Sam asked.
"And you're asking me to cover for you while you go off on an adventure with Daniel," he figured, the younger boy nodding and playing with the hem of his shirt. "As much as I wanna piss Dad off, I'm gonna say no."
"Come on, I don't ever go anywhere by myself," Sam said, slightly stomping his feet.
"I don't make the rules…" Jamie replied, now picking up a book about pirates.
The gears in the younger Kiszka's head started to turn, trying to devise a plan to go and see his friend. He snapped his fingers like a lightbulb had lit up in his brain. "What if you say you come with me, but when we get out in town, we both go our separate ways."
"My dearest Samuel," Jamie started, tossing his book and wrapping an arm around his shoulders, "you are forgetting one crucial thing: Dad makes us have our location all the time."
"Shit…" Sam said, arms crossed, "what if you just give me your phone. That way, it'll look like you're with me."
"And what if Dad decides to call me? Then what," Jamie said. Sam had thought about it and sighed. "Exactly."
"Damn…" Feeling defeated, Sam sighed, plopping on Jamie's bed.
"And why do you wanna hang out with him now? You know he works at the record shop today."
"I just wanna hang out with my best friend," Sammy told him. "If you had one, you'd understand."
"I don't need friends," Jamie snapped, arms crossed and head turned aside. "new friends, that is."
"Sure thing Mister Dark and Mysterious," Sammy teased, wiggling his fingers in Jamie's face. "And by the way, if you're gonna vape, at least open your window." Jamie was about to reply but had waved him off.
Sammy returned to his room, flopping down on his bed and sighing. He wanted to see Daniel badly, but at the same time didn't want to mess up his workflow. He didn't know how it got this way, needing to be around Daniel all the time. He soon grabbed his phone, opened the text messages, and saw their past conversations. They sent each other jokes and funny pictures, Sam chuckling at the throwback Thursday pictures of him and the boys in their youth.
Thumbs began to type rapidly on the phone as Sam was eager to contact him.
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Daniel had his hair in a bun, trying to keep his hair pulled back as it was such a hot day. He wore the brightest thing he could find to keep the sun's rays off him, a science tip Sammy gave him. Danny had undone his bun to massage his head. He had attempted to put his hair up, only for the ribbon to snap. "Shit," he cursed in a whisper, looking at his worn-out ribbon. He would see where the material of the fabric broke off, exposing the elastic band that had also broken off due to tension.
His father just so happened to come from the back of the store and spoke, "Letting those locks out, I see," he teased his boy.
"My ribbon broke off," he said as he searched for one in his pockets. "You don't happen to have one, do you?"
"Absolutely, after all, I'm blessed with such a head full of hair," he said, pretending to comb his thinning hair.
Danny chuckled, "I can handle a rubber band for now," he said, his father passing him one. He soon felt the vibration of his phone against his thigh, jumping and reaching down to see that it was Sam texting him.
Sammy: Hi Danny :) Wanna hang out later today?
Daniel smiled as he replied.
Danny: Hey, Sam! @ Work. Talk 2 you after.
Daniel had put his phone back in his pocket but felt the sudden soft stare of his father. He faced him and spoke, "You okay?"
"You two haven't skipped a beat, huh?" Mr. Wagner said, "You guys were always attached at the hip."
"I was thinking about it; maybe when Sam and Jamie settled here, we can get them a job at the record store," Daniel said, smiling a little.
"That doesn't sound bad at all. He already has a good understanding of music.," Mr. Wagner said.
"Oh, this is gonna be great," Daniel said with a wide smile. "I just hope Mr. Kiszka doesn't mind them working here."
"You know he still has yet to call me?" Mr. Wagner told Daniel with slight annoyance, but it wasn't out of anger: it was out of concern. "He knows he can call me any time, but he doesn't… why?"
"Maybe he's been busy with the house," Daniel told him, "we can visit them…"
"You're right. Let's welcome the Kiszkas back to Franconia and make them feel at home," Mr. Wagner said to him.
Daniel and his dad continued throughout the day, having some customers come in and out of the record store. It was near closing time, finally. Daniel sighed as he was ready to clock out and go home. "I can't wait to go home," he said as he placed his uniform on a hanger.
After finishing up, Daniel grabbed his phone and opened up his messages. He had instantly texted.
Danny: Hey! Wanna hang out at my house this weekend? Bring your dad too.
As if Samuel were waiting, Daniel saw his text bubbles pop up on his screen, a smile across his face.
Sammy: Yes! Cowabunga! 🏊♀️🩳
Daniel chuckled. He had gotten his backpack and had followed his dad out. The sunset was settling over Franconia, Daniel's skin radiant in the sun. He remembered when Sam and his brother visited the then-young Wagner, the kids jumping around in a puddle after a long week of rainy weather. Daniel and Sam had a weird bowl haircut, but they joked around and called each other Bieber twins. They were a pair indeed. It was different when things were simple for them, to an extent. They didn't worry as much. They looked hopeful.
"I'm glad Sam is back here with us," Daniel said to his dad.
"I think so, too. You got your brother back," Mr. Wagner said, Daniel smiling a little.
“Yeah… brother…”
#🌸🌸🌸#🧊#greta van fleet#gvf#josh kiszka#josh gvf#jake gvf#sam gvf#danny gvf#danny wagner#sam kiszka#josh kiskza#jake kiszka#greta van fic#greta van fanfic#greta van fanficion#fanfic#fanfiction
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The Philver Scream
Thank God It's Friday
Chapter 1
Word Count: 75k
Rating: R
Genre: Horror
Philip (Phil) stood between fellow counselors Daniel (Dan) and Suzan (Suzie) as the seven of them waved off the buses full of the kids they’d had all summer.
“I’m going to miss them,” Jessica (Jessy) teared up, waving goodbye.
“Good riddance if you ask me.” The smile on Rebecca (Becky)’s face was plastered on.
Phil turned to see Dan’s reaction, but Dan just turned to face him and shrugged, smiling.
Once the buses were out of sight they all turned to make their way back to the main cabin.
It was a Friday, August 13th, and they had the rest of the afternoon to make sure that the camp was closed down for the season: everything put back where it belonged, no perishable food in the pantry, cabins cleaned, outdoor equipment stored for the winter, things of that nature. It was a lot to do, so in the spirit of comradery and for one last night of summer fun before school started next week for everyone respectfully, they had decided together to spend one last night at camp before packing up their own things in the morning and heading back home.
The other boy, Tyler, was the first up the stairs to the porch of the main house. Rocking chairs were spread out across the deck and he dramatically plopped himself down in one while he waited for the rest of them.
Bringing up the rear was a girl with blonde curls named Louise. Together, they all sat on rocking chairs on the porch like a bunch of old folks, rocking and staring out at the glistening lake between the tall pine trees. Phil could see why the camp was named as it was.
“Alright, what’s on the agenda?” Tyler asked, leaning his head back and closing his eyes as he rocked, as if he was enjoying a vacation in paradise.
Suzie pulled a lined sheet of pocket-sized notebook paper out of her pocket.
“Alright, here’s what needs to get done: the cabins and bathrooms need to be inspected, the main building has to be cleaned, someone needs to check the tool and equipment sheds to make sure everything is put away, and while that’s going on, someone should start making dinner and start a fire.”
They all looked at each other.
“Jessy and I will check the cabins and the bathrooms,” Becky offered loudly. Jessy tried to look enthusiastic, but she just looked pained instead. Becky had taken to ordering Jessy around for the summer, and Jessy was too timid of a girl to stand up for herself. Any interference by any of the other counselors had been met with resistance on Becky’s part.
“Louise and I can check the equipment and tool sheds and walk the grounds,” Tyler offered. It’d been clear to all the other campers that Tyler and Louise had their eyes on each other.
“Alright,” Suzie agreed. “Dan, can you and Phil work on cleaning up here while I cook dinner and start a fire?”
Phil shared another look between him and Dan.
“Sure thing,” Dan smiled. “Thanks for offering to cook dinner for all of us.”
Suzie smiled in return.
“All right, I’m sure we’ll find more things to do along the way so let’s get started now.”
Tyler groaned dramatically but stood up and made his way down one of the sets of stairs followed by Louise.
Right behind her was Jessy and Becky.
Suzie, Dan, and Phil all headed inside the main cabin.
“You could start by sweeping,” Suzie offered before making her way into the kitchen.
Phil walked over towards the closet with Dan trailing at his heels.
“Heading back into the closet?” Dan joked as Phil opened the squeaky door. He wrapped a hand around the push broom handle to pull it out. The wide bottom ended up pulling out much more than Phil had bargained for, and as he moved out of the way, Dan swooped in to put everything that had fallen out back inside.
The two of them had shared an almost instant sense of something shared between them. Fielding questions from curious kids about girlfriends far away as well as incessant shipping of the both of them with the other girls would have been alienating on their own, but together the two of them plotted to make up fake girlfriends of the most outlandish proportions. Of course, the other counselors knew that these were tall tales, if not necessarily why, but the campers ate it up. Instead of awkward it became an amusing game between them, almost competing to see whose fake girlfriend was better. So far Phil’s fake girlfriend was on track to become an Olympic rock climber, and Dan’s fake girlfriend was already being scouted by Hollywood producers.
“You know it,” Phil joked back over his shoulder. He carried the broom towards a corner of the room.
“I’ll take the smaller broom and head into the other rooms,” Dan offered, reaching back into the closet.
As Phil swept he heard Suzie call “Not while I’m cooking! You’re going to get dust and hair in our food!” followed by Dan reappearing from the kitchen.
“I guess we’ll save that for later,” he decided, making his way across the large main room towards the office.
There was, of course, adult staff during the summer hours, but all had gone home for the night, including the nurse, whose office was located in the back of the main cabin, the regular cook, and the camp director, whose office was located just off to Phil’s side. It was here Dan was heading now to sweep around the desk and filing cabinets.
In the main room was a grand stone fireplace on which an entire stuffed black bear reared up surrounded by old couches that sank when you sat in them. The bear watched with his glass eyes Phil as he swept. “Hope you don’t have allergies,” he joked towards it.
When the sweeping and general cleaning was finished in the main building both boys reported to Suzie, who was still in the kitchen making dinner. A deep pan was searing ground beef on the induction stove while Suzie prepared traditional taco toppings.
“Why don’t you two head out and see if anyone else needs help?” she suggested, and they followed her suggestion, heading out the front door onto the porch. They crossed the deck and leaned over the railing.
“Are you going to miss this?” Dan asked, gazing out over the treeline.
Phil nodded. “Yeah, I think I am. Anything is better than dealing with school work and social pressures, isn’t it?”
“Even kids?”
Phil paused for a moment and tilted his head. “It will be nice to have a break from the constant chaos,” he finally conceited.
“I never want to leave,” Dan sighed. Unbeknownst to either of them, none of them would be leaving- at least not alive.
*-*-*-*-*
Unsurprisingly, cleaning the main building and cooking dinner had taken the least time of all the chores, leaving Dan, Suzie, and Phil to make the campfire for the night. Dan and Phil didn’t mind this: Suzie was the least insufferable of all of their fellow counselors. She’d left the taco meat simmering low on the stove to keep it warm. When all the chores were done, the three of them headed back up to the main cabin and brought down everything they needed back to the fire.
The group sat in silence as they ate, finally enjoying a moment of peace between the seven of them without any adults or kids. They were eating out of bowls, as they’d run out of taco shells during camp.
In keeping with the camp theme, each of them were sat either on logs in pairs or tree stumps. Dan and Phil had ended up sharing a shorter log and were pressed shoulder to shoulder.
“I’m so thankful we don’t have to sing camp songs anymore,” Becky sighed, pulling out a portable speaker from her pocket and hooking it up to her phone via bluetooth. She turned on some pop music just a bit too loud, but no one said anything.
Suzie reached her arms up in a stretch. “I should take these bowls back up to the kitchen and get them cleaned so I don’t have to do it in the morning. There’s a few bars of chocolate and marshmallows left, and one more unopened box of graham crackers that’s definitely not going to make it to next year. Are we tired of s’mores yet, or can I bring them out so we don’t have to throw them away?”
“I’m fine with one more night of s’mores. Lord knows we probably won’t be having any until next year,” Jessy said.
Louise let out a hearty chuckle. “You’re crazy if you think I’m coming back next year,” she grinned. “Besides, I’m hoping to be out of here by then.”
Jessy nodded, as if remembering something. “Senior year. Are you excited? Are you nervous?”
Louise shook her head, golden curls bouncing. “I’m excited to get the fuck out of here.”
Jessy smiled wistfully.
“I’ll help you carry the bowls up,” Tyler offered, standing up from his stump. Almost undetectable he shot a glance at Louise before looking away, as if to say “look at what a gentleman I’m being.” Suzie didn’t seem to notice but it wasn’t lost on either of the other boys and they shared a knowing look between them.
“Thanks Tyler. We’ll be back in a bit.”
“I’m going to go take a walk,” Louise announced, standing up. “Anyone want to come?”
Becky also stood up. “Jessy and I will come.”
Jessy stood up obligatorily.
“How about you guys?” Louise asked, doe eyes staring at them behind big lashes.
“I’m good,” Phil responded, leaning back a bit.
“Same here, but thanks,” Dan agreed.
“Suit yourselves. See you soon!”
“Be safe!” Dan called after them.
Jessy waved a flashlight in the air to show them she had one and flicked it on.
The two then watched the circle of light until it disappeared into the wilderness.
“I wonder what my girlfriend is doing right now,” Dan joked.
“Climbing rocks in Japan?” Phil suggested.
“No, that’s your girlfriend,” Dan reminded him.
“Oh right. I’m sure she’s staring in some sort of new teen movie.”
“Oh yeah? What kind?”
Phil thought for a moment, before clawing his hands and raising them in front of him.
“A slasher. Very bloody, very gorey.”
“And where does it take place?”
“At a camp,” Phil said in a spooky voice, “on a night just like this one.”
“Oh yeah?” Dan asked again. “All you’re missing is a flashlight to shine in your face.”
Phil pulled out his phone and turned on it’s flashlight.
“At a camp, on a night just like this,” Phil repeated.
The two laughed, but soon their smiled fell.
“I wish I had a boyfriend,” Phil said, suddenly very demur.
“Me too,” Dan agreed.
They stared into the fire, flickering flames illuminating all the caresses of their young faces. The fire popped and crackled and the sound mixed with that of the forest at night. Phil really was going to miss this.
Just then, the night air was pierced by a scream.
On instinct both of them rose to their feet, stumbling a little as they bumped into each other from their close proximity.
“Where did that come from?” Dan asked in a hushed whisper.
“I don’t know,” Phil replied.
“Fuck,” Dan swore. “Quick, you go find the girls and I’ll check the main cabin. Meet back here when we have everyone.”
Without looking back he headed off in the direction he’d last seen Jessy’s flashlight.
The girls had followed Louise on the trail that led out towards the road. Phil walked quickly, waving his phone’s flashlight back and forth into the trees as he listened hard. He hardly kept his eyes on his feet even though it was dark: he’d come to know these trails and every root and upturned rock.
Phil’s breathing was heavy with anxiety and for some reason he worried that his breathing was too loud. He didn’t understand why he felt that way, but it was almost as if… he was being watched. Yes, that was it. He felt watched. He hadn’t been able to place the feeling until now. The hairs on his arm stood on end and he felt beads of sweat dripping down his neck from the Texas heat, even when the sun was down and the moon conquered her domain.
Phil heard a rustle off to the right in front of him and he whipped his flashlight in that direction. He didn’t see anything. He gulped and held his phone in that direction for a moment until he spotted a movement. He flicked the beam of light up a tree. He saw a flash of gray fur. It had just been a squirrel, spooked by his presence. Phil sighed and forced his body to relax while he was stopped. He swept the light around him one more time before taking another step, but-
Something had only just registered in his brain. He thought he’d seen something again.
He took another few deliberate steps forward and swept his light over the area again, and oh my god-
Becky was laying facedown just off the trail.
“Becky?” Phil called, rushing over to kneel by her side.
He shone the light down on her back and saw the blood oozing from underneath the tear in her shirt.
“Oh my god,” he muttered under his breath. Instinctively he dropped his phone and pressed down on the wound, which caused to blood to come out even faster.
“Oh my god, oh my god,” Phil recoiled, heart racing in his chest so fast it hurt.
Becky still wasn’t moving.
“Becky? Becky?”
Phil reached towards her outstretched wrist, checking for a pulse. He didn’t find any. “Oh my god,” he said one more time before standing back up. He wiped his bloody hands down his tee and grabbed his phone from next to Becky’s body.
“LOUISE! JESSY!” Phil was running down the trail now as fast as his legs could carry him. He was in much better shape now from all the hiking than he had been over the past school year, and yet he was still gasping for air in between every yell.
“JESSY? LOUISE?”
Phil’s feet carried him all the way around the trail, which was one of the shorter ones, back to the campfire. Dan, Tyler, and Suzie weren’t there so he took back off along the trail that led up the hill to the main building. There he found them huddled together on one couch in front of the unlit fireplace under the watchful eyes of the bear.
Dan stood up to meet him.
“Phil, I’m so sorry, Suzie suggested that we-”
“Becky’s dead,” Phil interrupted. “We need to go find the others.”
Tyler, Suzie, and Dan shared looks of horror.
“Oh my god,” Suzie muttered. Then her face hardened.
“Okay. Two of us should stay here and two of us should head out and look for Jessy and Louise.”
“Wait!” Tyler interjected. “Dead how?! What the fuck happened?!”
“She was murdered,” Phil explained.
“Murdered?” Dan asked, aghast. “By who?”
“I don’t know, but we have to find the others,” Phil begged.
Suzie was quickly loosing her composure, tears sliding down her face. “This is a joke, right?” she asked, trying to convince herself more than anything. They all knew Phil wouldn’t joke about something like this, and they’d all heard that scream. It wasn’t the kind of scream you could fake for anything.
“It’s not a joke, and we should all be out looking for them together.”
“What if they come back here? We all know to come back here. We should wait here for them.”
“We need to go out and find them,” Tyler argued.
“I agree.”
The three of them looked at Dan. He gazed up at Phil brokenheartedly.
“If they come back here and no one’s here they’ll be scared and confused,” he thought aloud.
Phil gazed back at him and nodded his head, a gesture of a lack of animosity between them.
“Then Tyler and I will go look for them and you guys stay here.”
“Here, take this.” Suzie hurried over to a table by the door that had a large, highly powered flashlight sat atop. She turned it and handed it to Tyler.
“Be safe out there.”
Phil glanced at the phone still in his hand, wishing there was cell service so they could keep in contact with each other over text. “We’ll be back,” he assured, slipping it in his back pocket.
He and Tyler went back outside and stood on the porch.
“Weren’t not splitting up,” Phil ordered.
Tyler gave him a look like he was crazy. “I wasn’t planning on it.”
Phil hoped Tyler couldn’t see his shoulders sink in relief in the dark.
“Alright, where would you go if you were running from a crazy killer?” Tyler asked.
“Here,” Phil answered truthfully.
“Agreed, but they didn’t come back here. What’s your next move?”
Phil gritted his teeth. “Hide, I guess, in one of the kid’s cabins. I would hope there’s a lot of them and the killer would tire of searching them all verses a solitary building like the bathrooms or the arts and crafts building.”
“Oh.”
“What?”
“Well my first thought would have been to grab the shotgun out of the tool shed,” Tyler replied.
Phil blinked in surprise. “There’s a shotgun in the tool shed?”
“Have you not been in the tool shed?”
“No, I have, I just-”
“Okay well, yeah, there’s a shotgun. So now what do we do?”
Phil sighed.
“Let’s check the cabins first. They’re closer”
Tyler nodded and they turned to the left running off down the porch steps.
The flashlight’s beam bounced as they ran.
“LOUISE?” Phil called and Tyler skidded to a halt.
“Phil! Shut up!”
“What?”
“There’s a killer on the loose! Do you want him to find us?!”
Phil gulped and shook his head and they continued off running.
After a few minutes they made it to the first cabin. The doors were a wooden frame with two sections of screen separated with a two-by-four. Tyler grabbed the rusty door handle with the hand that wasn’t holding the flashlight and yanked it open. Phil pulled his phone back out of his back jeans pocket and turned on it’s light once more as they searched the cabin.
“Nothing,” Tyler sighed, and they jogged to the next cabin in line.
There was nothing their either.
Phil wasn’t really expecting to find anything, so when they stumbled upon Louise’s body in the third cabin underneath a bunk bed in a pool of blood, he still wasn’t any more prepared than he had been to see Becky’s dead body.
“Louise,” Tyler let out a choked sob and knelt down in the blood.
He gently grabbed her hand and brushed her blond curls from her face.
Phil, himself crying, placed a hand on Tyler’s shoulder and picked up the flashlight Tyler had dropped.
“Come on, we need to search the other cabins for Jessy.”
Tyler, now soaked in blood from the knees down, stood back up, sliding a little in the still-warm pool, which only made him cry even harder.
Phil grabbed his arm.
“Come on, we need to go.”
“Hold on just one second.”
Tyler bent down again and used two fingers to drag her eyelids shut. Phil appreciated the gesture, both symbolically, and as someone who’d been subjected to her haunted, glassy-eyed gaze. It was the same cool gaze as the bear above the fireplace had. Dead.
Phil and Tyler searched the rest of the cabins, now expecting to find Jessy also dead, either huddled up under one of the beds like Louise or sprawled out in death on one of the matresses like Becky had been in the forest, but they didn’t.
“We have to check the tool shed next,” Tyler remarked, and so once again they headed down the trail that wrapped around Crystal Lake.
The tool shed’s outer light was on.
Tyler and Phil shared a glance, trying their best to steel their nerves against their trembling bodies as Tyler pulled open the door and Phil shone the light inside. There was no need to, though. The shed’s single light bulb that hung from a cord from the rafters was on, still swinging from the force of someone yanking the cord to turn it on. The light swung back and forth, and in the middle of the floor Jessy lay with the shotgun tossed to the side near her. It was clear she’d put up a fight but she was still dead.
Another round of tears started up for both of them as they exited the shed.
“We have to tell the others back up at the main cabin.”
“I know.”
Phil felt drained but he ran back down the trail they way they’d come, following behind Tyler who was running ahead of the flashlight’s beam.
When they reached the main cabin again all the lights were shut off.
“Oh no.”
They made their way to the staircase on their left before sliding to a halt again.
Facedown on the stairs lay Dan, dead trying to run out of the building.
Phil felt his whole world shatter. It’d been hard enough seeing the friends he’d spent the summer with, but… somehow he’d never thought that Dan wouldn’t make it out alive… and for the first time, he was wondering if he and Tyler were going to make it out alive either.
Tyler’d thrown up an arm to stop Phil from running towards Dan’s body.
“He might still be alive,” Phil whispered hoarsely.
“He’s not alive,” Tyler said and he grabbed Phil’s arm and dragged him around the porch to the other stair case.
Quietly they searched the house, finding Suzie dead in the pantry. By this time Phil was expecting she hadn’t made it out alive.
They stood shoulder to shoulder staring down at their dead friend’s body.
“We need to get out of here,” Tyler decided, and they crept their way quickly back through the kitchen out to the main room in the dark, path lit only by the powerful flashlight in Phil’s hand.
Phil raised the flashlight towards the main entrance, the door to which they’d left open in their hurry to find Suzie. In the doorway stood a large man with an even larger machete. His balding head was covered in a mask with holes. Tyler, an avid sports fan, instantly recognized it as an old hockey mask. Phil didn’t. Either way, the man was an immediate threat to both of them, and they took off running towards the nurses station in the back.
Tyler yanked open the back door and ran outside followed closely by Phil. Phil ran as fast as his feet could carry him, but his shoe caught in a root and Phil felt the breath leave his chest after his body slammed to the forest floor, flashlight dancing off the path.
“Phil!”
Tyler turned to look behind him and Phil watched the masked man melt out of the forest between them.
“Tyler! Go! Run!”
Tyler hesitated but turned back around and continued to run towards the parking lot.
Phil scrambled back up to his feet and turned around back the way he’d come and ran back through the door to the nurse’s office. He dove under the nurse’s desk and tried to catch his breath after his fall.
Think, he told himself. Think.
He played out a mental map of the camp. There was the trail to the road that Becky had died near. There was the parking lot with Tyler and Louise’s cars. They were the only counselors who had driven to camp. If Tyler was able to get his car out and escape that only left Louise’s car, and Phil didn’t know where she’d left her keys. If Tyler had died his car was still an option.
That, or he could try and hide somewhere at the camp. That hadn’t worked for anyone else, though. He racked his brain to come up with a plan. Then it came to him: the lake. If he could take a boat out into the lake the killer would either have to swim out to get him or take another boat out. If the killer swam out Phil would be able to hear him coming, and if he watched the beach to see if the killer took another canoe out Phil would have plenty of time to paddle to the other side of the lake before the killer made it. When his fellow counselor's families realized they were missing tomorrow they would send the police to come looking for them and the police would find Phil and get him out of here alive. There was no place to run or hide out in the open on a lake. No one could sneak up on him.
Phil crawled out on all fours from underneath the nurse’s desk and slipped through the open front door of the main building and crossed to the staircase that Dan’s body wasn’t draped over. He was so tired, but after this he could rest.
Phil ran down the hill trail past the campfire that was still burning and towards the beach.
The canoes, of course, were all put away, stored upside-down on racks in the boat shed. They were aluminum canoes, though, light and easy, with the anticipation of kids handling them. They were heavy enough still though that it usually took two people at least to flip them off the racks and set them down, and even though Phil was exhausted, his adrenaline gave him one last burst of strength and he was able to flip the canoe off the lowest rack by himself and managed not to drop it on his feet.
Traditionally they weren’t supposed to drag the canoes to make sure they didn’t damage the bottom of the hull but Phil figured a moment of life or death made an acceptable exception to the rule.
Phil grabbed the rope at the front of the boat and dragged the boat across the grass and into the beach’s sand. Then he ran back into the boat shed and grabbed a paddle, throwing it in the boat with a loud clatter before resuming dragging it across the sand to the water’s edge. The water lapped at his sneakers, illuminated by the light atop the tall wooden pole next to the boathouse.
When the boat was afloat, Phil tipped himself into the middle, sitting up and grabbing the paddle. He started pushing his way out towards the center of the lake. He hadn’t grabbed a life vest, nor did he have a safety buddy, as everyone else was dead, but he figured these rules could also be overlooked at this moment.
Tiny lake waves lapped at his boat as he continued to paddle until he drifted on momentum to the approximate center of the lake. He looked around everywhere, scanning the forest’s edge for any sign of movement. He tried his best to relax his body while keeping his eyes peeled. There was nothing, though. No sounds out of place. No movements. Just the lapping of the waves that gently rocked him.
Phil kept his hands wrapped around the paddle but shifted his position to a more comfortable one. He was still exhausted, and his adrenaline was slowly heading back to a more normal level. He tried to keep his eyes open but he found himself blinking slowly, eyes growing heavy and tired. He could feel the ache of his body and the mental fatigue in his head threatening to swallow him up in a blanket of false security. Then again, though, was it false? I mean would someone want to kill him so badly they would paddle or swim all the way out to try and kill him? What would they do, try and tip him out and drown him? He would hear them coming even if he was asleep, right? He didn’t know, but did it really matter if he couldn’t stop himself from just falling asleep-
Suddenly something rocked the boat and jolted Phil into an upright position. A large hand reached out of the water and grabbed the boat. Phil raised his paddle and slammed it down on the fingers but the hand didn’t budge. Another hand wielding a machete reached up out of the murky depths and came down on the paddle, splitting the wood into two halves. Thinking quickly, Phil used the broken and splintered edge to stab down again. The jagged wood bounced right off the hand as if it was nothing.
This can’t be happening, Phil thought to himself.
The hand wielding the machete came down again and Phil felt a sharp pain in his abdomen and felt warmth. He looked down. There was blood all over his clothes. He dropped the halves of his paddle and reached down to his stomach.
The last thing Phil was conscious of was an arm reaching around his forehead covering his eyes and the feeling of his neck sliding open, his head tilting back at an unnatural angle. He watched the stars twinkling in the night sky, tears in his eyes, until they faded to black. Faded to black.
#horror#whump writing#whump#80s horror#dan and phil#savvy's fics#ospbb#old school phandom big bang#ospbb 2023#dnp#dan howell#daniel howell#phil lester
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Time Loop
Dragon Age: Inquisition
Summary:
Everyone may or may not replay the game many times. Sometimes to change a choice, sometimes to choose a different race or class, or they change which person they romance. This is my take on what would happen if the Inquisitor remembered every time we did so. This has a fanon twist to it, of course. Cause it wouldn't be interesting otherwise.
~
Jack opened his eyes to a very familiar cell with a familiar mark on his hand. He recognized the guards watching him. Could identify the fear and mistrust in their eyes. The male looked around blankly. How many times has he felt himself die, only to wake up in this place again? How many times has he had to go around saving a bunch of ungrateful assholes who only see him as a tool? Jack sighed softly. The familiar footsteps alerted him to Cassandra and Leliana's approach to the door. Jack debated on being silent or talking this time around.
~
Seeing Solas again made Jack want to vomit. Nothing he ever did made the elf stay. The brunette looked at the ground while the others talked around him. He mumbled their words, knowing them by heart. Feeling jealousy well up in his chest for the three who would never know how lucky they were. When they get to the forward camp, Jack makes the same choice he made last time. Go through the mountain pass. It was one choice he never changed; despite how many times he's had to make it. Though it never stopped stinging every time he saw Cassandra's disapproving look.
~
When they get to the base of the breach Jack kept walking. Following the familiar path down to the bottom, uncaring of the confused looks it got him. He looked at Leliana and motioned to her archers. Luckily, she understood.
"Are you alright?" Cassandra asked him. Jack looked at her with blank blue eyes. Then he turned them to the rift at the bottom of the breach. "It's closed. But we will need to open it to get the breach stabilized. Be ready for company." He said and Solas looked at him in surprise. Surprised, of course, at the fact that Jack already knew that.
Fighting the Corrupted Spirit never stopped being difficult. And passing out from the Anchor's power never gave him a permanent type of relief.
~
Waking up in Haven was always bittersweet. Knowing what happens, seeing the small lake town burn then be buried always caused that never fully healed wound to rip open. Jack always tried to ease the fear of the elf anyway. She didn't deserve his melancholy or his anger. After she ran out to alert Cassandra, Jack stood up and stretched. Feeling bones pop and blood flow. The human sighed and picked up the Elfroot. Finding that same empty book of clean papers on the desk would always annoy him.
Well, Jack thought bitterly, let's get this show on the road. He left the illusion of safety that small room provided to face a world of fear, hatred, and corrupted spirits.
~
Meeting Mother Giselle was always tense. He remembers the future questions she'd ask about his and Dorian's relationship. Love life or Friends both. Master Dennet was still difficult to convince to join the Inquisition.
Sitting in the camp near the horse master's home was calming. Though Jack was writing in his journal about the changes he'd made to his choices. He felt eyes on him. Aware that the wolves were watching him. Though he did wonder if that was just Solas or the Corrupted Spirit possessing them.
If it was the former, he was going to have a few words on privacy.
~
Val Royeaux was always a bit too much for Jack. The smells, the sights, the colors. All of it sent the brunette into a bit of a spiral. He leaned on the side of the bridge, trying to keep from retching up his breakfast. What small bit he'd eaten anyway. He wasn't that hungry, much to his favorite dwarf's concern.
He enjoyed the Chantry Mother getting a nasty right hook every time it happened. He couldn't restrain that hysterical little giggle though, and Solas looked at him for a moment in confusion. The fact that the Templars still had good people in their ranks was the only reason he still chose them. He'd gone with the mages a few times, once to see its story, another just to get Dorian to stop glaring at him. He'd made the mistake of going to Redcliff then just turning and allying with the Templars instead. That was also the same life Iron Bull managed to slice his torso in two! That was a painful death.
The invite to Vivienne's party and the arrow from Sera never stopped warming his tired heart to bits though.
~
He was drawing Solas in his Dread Wolf regalia when said elf sat down at the table beside him. No doubt the elf was curious. Jack slowly made sure he got the fur right. The brunette really wanted to ask what color the fur was but thought better of it when he remembered Solas doesn't know he knows. Jack bit his lip to stop that same hysterical giggle from leaving his throat.
"Who might that be?" He heard Solas ask in a restrained amount of curiosity. Jack could confidently bet his bow and a quiver that the elf knew exactly who it was. But, as always, Jack humored him. "From stories I've heard, this is the Dread Wolf. I can't really say the Elvhen version of his name as I don't want to butcher it in the presence of the elves." Jack said, thanking his stars that he hadn't started on the head yet.
Jack remembers the life he actually drew the head and the armor. Solas had almost blasted him with his fire magic he was so terrified. It had taken the whole day to try and explain it, knowledge of time loops quietly left out of course, before the elf had calmed down. Being thrown off the side of the Well of Sorrows' structure still caused him panic attacks though. That death was quick but no less traumatic. It's why he doesn't ride his Hart much anymore.
Solas hadn't spoken during Jack's inner thoughts, too focused on the drawing of the fur. Suddenly Jack's face lit up, he had an idea! "Say, Solas, you have a good handle on Elvhen history an all, what color was the fur? I've never really gotten a good answer on that to properly finish the picture." Jack asked pointing to the fur lining the space around Solas' neck. The elf looked at the picture and then to Jack's curious expression. "A light tan that fades into brown, if I recall." Solas hesitantly pointed which way the fade went. Jack smiled and thanked him, using a bit of brown paint and water to get the gradient right.
All the while, Solas watched him as he carefully gave life to the elf's true persona.
~
Three days later, Jack was walking along the beach of the Storm Coast. The brunette, Solas, Sera, and Cassandra had already dealt with the Blades of Hessarian. They were, however, a bit early, in Jack's book. The Venatori aren't being attacked by Bull and his Chargers yet. And Jack doesn't want to deprive the Qunari of his fun. That thought made Jack pause. The others stopped a few feet ahead of him. Jack had made it a pattern with the Chargers and the Qun. Last time, he had picked the Qun. He already knew the result, but the life he just left had ended rather quickly when he lost his head to a swipe of a Darkspawn Alpha's axe. It had been a good place to die, too. In the Fallow Mire.
This time he was picking the Chargers. So, should he really be calling Iron Bull Qunari this life? Jack looked ahead of his small group, seeing the Venatori getting prepared for something. He could see a Charger slowly creeping up on one of them. The shimmer of their cloak couldn't hide them from a Rogue's experienced gaze. Jack huffed as he began to slowly jog towards the two groups. He'd have to see what happens after he gets back to a camp.
~
Jack always enjoyed getting Blackwall to join him. Seeing the warden catch an arrow for the brunette was always an inspiring act. Jack even tried to copy it once or twice.
Much to the amusement of Blackwall and Sera. The latter because she was mostly in his party during those times.
~
Jack was laying on his back, limps stretched out away from him, staring at the stars above Haven. The ice of the lake rumbled under his head, and it made him shiver. He'd mapped out a good walking route on the lake's icy surface enough times to know what places wouldn't wind up swallowing him. It was peaceful. Quiet outside of the rumbles. Then he heard footsteps and wondered who was brave enough to come out here. He looked, upside-down as his head was, to the bridge near Haven.
There, holding onto his stick for dear life, was Solas. Jack had to giggle. Why was the older male trying to come out here? It was late and the ice could not be good for the male's unprotected feet. That was another thing Jack had tried to bring up, was Solas and his need to have his feet bare even in the colder and warmer climates. The elf either politely explained that he was fine or scoffed at him on the rare lives Jack was acting like an asshole.
Jack was comfy in his spot on the ice. Plus, his footsteps should be easy to follow where he'd walked through the snow covering it. He was greeted by a scowling Solas when the elven Apostate got to him though. Jack grinned innocently at him and from the look the other was now giving him, it wasn't a very convincing face. "What are you doing out here, Herald? Aren't you cold?" The elf asked once he had found a place to sit.
Jack's smile faded rather abruptly when the elf called him that. He hated that name. It was as if the others suddenly felt as though saying his actual fucking name was a sin! "Don't call me that, Sol. Please." The brunette quietly said as he sat up. The nickname made Solas blink, but Jack was too tired to really feel embarrassed that he'd called him by that fond nickname. In the earlier lives Jack had lived, Sol was what the brunette would always call Solas after getting to know the elf. Just like the others, he always had a nickname for those he cherished. Tears welled up in the human's eyes while grief surged into his chest painfully.
He wished he could be like the other, blissfully ignorant to the many times he had stabbed Jack in the back for an empire long gone. Jack looked at Solas and smiled weakly. The tears fell down his pale cheeks and Jack had to forcefully wipe them away, digging snow damp fur into his icy skin. "Come on, my friend, let's get you inside the town. You need to get warmed up." Solas said, mercifully avoiding asking questions Jack wasn't sure he could answer now. Jack nodded and they both stood.
Much to Solas' embarrassment, the elf was stubbornly carried into the town. Unable to sway the human that his feet would not get frostbitten if he walked.
~
The envy demon was oddly quiet this time around. Jack was curious as to what the entity could be thinking. After being pulled into his own head, Jack hadn't really reacted the way the corrupted spirit no doubt excepted. He had looked around, blinked and completely ignored everything the demon had been trying to do. Jack remembers the time he had let the demon win. Remembers being forced out of his body, watching as the demon masqueraded as him until someone managed to kill it.
He still heard Cole's sobs at failing to help him at night when memories of that life would creep up on him. The area around him seemed to jerk with barely restrained shock. Jack paused, could the demon see into his thoughts? If it could, it wasn't really going to get much. His mind wasn't really being anchored to a single line of thought at the moment. Meaning it was going to be difficult to get a read on him. "You are right on that, human. And it is slightly eye opening to see how many times you've managed to defeat me." The demon grumbled and Jack smiled a hollow smile.
One thing was for sure though, he really wanted Cole's solid presence with him. Even if he couldn't see the spirit, knowing Cole was at least a call away comforted Jack. The spirit was naturally always able to soothe Jack's shaky mental state. He heard something step beside him and looked to find the Spirit of Compassion standing there, nervously fidgeting with his hands. As if he wasn't sure if he was welcome. Jack smiled a little more genuinely and held up a hand to the spirit. The blonde took his hand and walked with him through the whole ordeal.
Fighting the Envy Demon still made Jack shriek many a colorful word at being knocked over all the time. Much to Iron Bull's distracted amusement.
~
On the way back to Haven, Jack was humming a made-up song. Solas, Varric, and Iron Bull had been glancing at him repeatedly, both in concern and curiosity.
"The breach fades away. The demon comes to play. And the snow, falls, falls, falls. Say good night, my dear, for our Haven will soon fall too." Jack softly sang to himself. Eyes watching the breach as it swirled prettily in the sky. Jack wondered why Solas wanted them to strengthen the veil, since the elf was planning to get rid of it anyway. "Herald? What are you singing?" Varric asked, riding up to be side by side with Jack. The human looked at him for a moment and the sudden memory of a life losing Varric to a Templar's blade made the brunette freeze up on his Hart. That life had ended in Jack being stabbed in the back by a behemoth. He had never been so happy to die than then. The brunette just smiled softly and hurried ahead, despite the worried glance sent after him by the dwarf.
~
Jack stood once again under the breach. Waiting for the templars to gather around. He debated with himself on the future lives of Stroud and Hawke. The human had made the choice of Hawke once. And only once. Seeing the devastated look on Varric's face and hearing the grief in the Dwarf's voice made Jack very firm on that never happening again. Even thinking of it now made him want to find the red head and squeeze him in a hug. Though he made the distinct decision not to. As of course: A, Varric was fine, B, Hawke was very much alive, and C, Jack was currently standing below a giant rip in the veil.
Yeah, that wasn't something he was going to embarrass himself with anytime soon. Back to the breach!
~
He refused to let the guards rest, having mysteriously gotten Intel that there had been hostile movement heading towards Haven, convincing Cullen to start moving important things to the Chantry had been easy. That and convincing Leliana to call her scouts back home. Roderick could wait. Jack never really knew of a way to get him to spill on that secret path. Plus, Jack was always on bait duty anyway, so it never really mattered to him.
Cassandra had picked up on the fact that the soldiers had not started celebrating with the people. Finding Jack talking quietly with Krem on what the Chargers could do in aiding the civilians when the time comes. Talking with the taller human was always both helpful and enlightening. The male could think quicker than anyone Jack has ever known and could come up with better ideas too. The other brunette also had a mean shield bash, as Jack could prove with experience.
"Herald, if I may have a word with you?" Cassandra asked and Jack nodded. He waved goodbye to Krem, knowing it would be the last time he would see the Second in Command for a while. He turned to the raven warrior and gave her his full attention. "Yes, Lady Cassandra?" Calling her lady was always a habit he's had. He normally called her that when he felt like he was about to be lectured by her. "Do you know why the soldiers aren't celebrating? Or why Leliana's people are suddenly returning early?" The woman asked and Jack sighed softly in relief. She was just curious and concerned. Not angry. Though, before he could respond, a familiar sound echoed across from the door of the town. Enter in Dorian Pavus of Tevintor.
And thus, the fall of Haven has begun.
~
Jack winced as the Anchor flared to life at the power contained in the Orb. Knowing that Solas' magic was locked inside and was actively calling to a part of itself that had been taken was not pleasant to know. Being lifted by that pained arm was even more unpleasant. While Corypheus ranted on about the Golden City, Jack decided to test if the Magister would listen to his warning.
"You end up dying, I hope you realize this." Jack said bluntly. It caused Corypheus to actually pause and look at him in confusion. Seeing the human's blank expression probably didn't help the moron. "Your plans of Godhood fail very miserably. And I'm not even going to try telling you about your Archdemon. By the way, nice touch with the whole 'linking your soul to its soul so you don't stay dead' thing. Very hard to kill you." Jack said with a slight hysterical edge to his voice.
Of course, that resulted in Jack being thrown into the trebuchet a little more violently this time. Thankfully the dipshit didn't ask him to clarify his meaning. No doubt the Darkspawn thought himself too powerful to die.
Flying into the underground pathway still hurt like a bitch though.
~
Jack hates snow. He hates it with a burning passion. He hates Haven's snow, he hates Skyhold's snow, he hates Emprise Du Lion's snow. Though that last one was only second to its twin dragons and the unholy amount of templars and giants. He'd died twice to the giants in that damn keep. One ate him. Armor and all. Jack shivers both from the cold and the fear that memory provided. Best not to think about that right now.
Jack flinched when the familiar howl of a wolf guided him once more towards that narrow passage to his circle. Sometimes the brunette didn't know if he wanted to slap Solas or kiss him.
Hearing Cassandra's relieved voice always eased Jack on his way to freezing unconsciousness.
~
When the human woke up, he was not expecting Solas to be there. Looking uncomfortable leaning on the side of his cot, holding his wrist while Cole held his hand. His other hand was discreetly being held in a feminine, bronze colored hand. If Viv didn't want anyone knowing, then Jack was not going to tell anyone. Not that he had time to really, he was out like a light before anyone other than Cole noticed he'd woken up.
~
This time, he was able to stay awake longer. His hands free of the warmer ones holding them before. Though he was greeted by a very grey hand resting on his thigh. And a thicker bronze hand brushing through his shoulder length hair. That bronze hand was very encouraging on its quest to return him to that blissful void. Jack tried to move, but his eyes were already sliding shut again.
~
Jack was getting really tired of waking up, only to fall back to sleep again before questions could be asked. He wonders if it was intentional. Waking up alone was a bit disorienting. Though it wasn't the first time. When he woke, it was to that familiar bickering between Cullen, Leliana, and Cassandra. Josephine trying to play mediator, as always. The difference this time being Solas was leaning on his staff near Jack's tent. The brunette squinted his eyes at the male.
He wasn't behaving like that mysterious apostate who never got close to anyone. The only time Jack would see him was after the whole choir of people got done singing. Mother Giselle alerted him to her own presence the same way she always did.
~
"A word?" Solas' voice made Jack jump when the male passed him. Jack followed after him to that single torch for veil fire. "What troubles you, Sol?" Jack finally broken the silence. He knew the answer to that. The orb was Elvhen in nature, and Solas was worried it would be the elves that are blamed. Solas was still quiet for a moment before he approached Jack and placed a hand on his shoulder. "I worry about you. You have been acting strange as of late." The elf said softly and that caused Jack to blink. Solas never said anything like that.
He always spoke about the orb, the fate of the Elves, and the path to Skyhold. Never did he speak on Jack's mental health. Not in any of the past lives he's lived. Jack squinted and looked at Solas a bit suspiciously. "What do you mean? I'm alright." He said and the elf sighed a bit defeatedly. Like he was expecting that response. This resulted in Jack being pulled forward and into an embrace. The brunette's eyes widened, and he looked at the back of Solas' head. Tears welled up in his eyes and shakily he wrapped Solas in his own arms. Jack couldn't help the sob that escaped his throat.
This was the first time he'd been able to embrace someone without it being creepy. He had wanted someone to just hold him, even if for only a moment. The human and elf stood there for a moment longer before Jack pulled away, thankfully having spared the taller male a wet tunic. Jack was quick in regaining his composer. Faster than Solas was probably expecting, but then Jack has had many times to practice it.
After that, though, the conversation continued as it normally would.
~
Jack finally found his normal hiding place. Sitting down on the edge of that tower soothed his soul. Jack jumped once. He jumped off the side of his quarter's balcony. Much to the horrified shock of those who'd been there to see it. It had been after a Qun choice. That was also the same life Jack had courted Iron Bull. He was never choosing the Bull on that choice ever again. Big mistake. Even thinking of it now, it caused his soul to twitch in fear.
Talking to the ones he cherished was always a bit of a relief to his tired heart. Checking up on them, checking their mental states and health, seeing how they were handling the Keep. The only one he couldn't read was Solas. Again. Since he couldn't find the elf. And Jack had looked everywhere. Even climbed the stairs to Dorian's level only to jump down into Solas' office just to see if he somehow managed to magically appear there.
Jack leaned back against the battered stone wall and sighed. Tomorrow he would be going to the Hinterlands, he'd be starting his dragonslayer life with the Fereldan Frostback. Jack couldn't help but giggle hysterically once again. Four fucking times that thing has swallowed him. Once it even threw him into a pit to feed its offspring. That was a slow, agonizing death. Even worse than the life he was sliced in half by Hissrad.
He felt his eyes flutter shut and the cool air brush over his face. Jack decided to rest there, then return to the main hall. No doubt Josie was in a tizzy. She couldn't fault him for resting a moment, could she?
~
When he returned to the main hall, Josie was definitely in a tizzy. But not for the reason he expected. She was looking for someone who could go somewhere to get something for this person. Jack blinked and decided to approach her after she'd calmed down. Turning to go to his quarters, he was stopped by a cool hand that pulled him away from the door and to the outside. Catching up with events, he blinked to find Krem silently dragging him to the soon to be tavern Herald's Rest. What did the other male need from Jack? This was definitely new.
And hey! He found Solas. Talking to Vivienne about Cole no doubt. Though he couldn't really approach the elf at the moment with Krem dragging him like this. Just knowing where the other was eased a bit of tension from his shoulders. Inside the Tavern, Maryden was playing music and singing softly. Jack knew he was going to try and gently nudge Krem and Maryden together at some point! They deserved happiness too!
Krem sat him down in front of Bull, and that caused the shorter human to blink. "Yes?" Jack asked slowly. Tension leaked back into his shoulders the longer Bull stared at him. Though it was curious to see the horned male fight between Hissrad and Iron Bull. Jack was going to enjoy pulling the other away from the Qun. They never really appreciated the swordsman properly. "You're looking more tense than usual, Boss. Are you alright?" The Bull's voice snapped Jack out of his thoughts. The brunette flinched at the name Boss. He wondered if the Bull ever called him Bas. The two names sound so similar.
"I'm good, Bull. If I wasn't, I'd let someone know." Jack said with a small smile. He couldn't lie and smile a bigger smile than that. Hissrad had been trained to spot lies. Even lies to oneself. "If you say so, Boss. Though Cole might beat you to it. He's been rambling a monologue about your thoughts for an hour." Bull said in an annoyed mutter, though Jack only caught half of what had been said. He felt a chill go down his spine, his breathing catching in his lungs. How much has Cole voiced as he digs into Jack's hurts? What all does the Bull know? Looking at the horned male through his hair gave him the picture of concern from Bull.
The brunette gripped the clothe on his leg and stood up abruptly. He darted out of the tavern, being followed by the concerned voices of Krem and Bull.
~
He'd been keeping Cole close after that. Keeping an eye on what the Spirit mentioned in passing. He had Blackwall and Solas with him, too. He had changed his mind on hunting the Frostback. He didn't feel up to trying to kill it without Bull being present. Twice Jack has had to talk over the Spirit, not to be mean though it seemed that way to outside parties, but to get the blonde to understand that that wasn't something that needed to be up in the air. The pale eyed Spirit seemed to get the hint after the third time he talked over Cole's mumbling of a rougher life.
"Inquisitor, why do you keep interrupting the boy?" Blackwall asked and Jack turned to him, eyes eerily hollow. But that look quickly vanished into a soft, apologetic smile. "I just don't like the topics. Those points in my life aren't something I want to relive or have voiced." Jack said, omission wasn't a total lie after all. Jack turned, not catching the silent stares of confusion passed between warden and apostate.
Dealing with the Hinterlands Keep was a bitch! Just like all the others!
~
Jack never forgot to help each companion and advisor with personal quests. Not once. He felt it was key to getting them to relax fully. The quests for Calpernia still annoyed him to no end though. Corrupted Spirits or not, they were still difficult to get through. Especially the Pride Demons.
~
Adamant Fortress.
Jack had vomited outside of its gates. He was still uneasy about going into the Fade. It never mattered which group of three he brought. They always suffered with him in the end. He was sure seeing their leader puke outside of the fortress walls wasn't too comforting to his soldiers.
Jack still fought to keep his men safe on the ramparts. Helping Hawke and Stroud keep their health up too was a bit bittersweet. Especially Stroud.
This time around, Jack was able to save the other Wardens from becoming slaves to Corypheus. That was something he was going to write down for future lives.
~
Jack dry heaved; they were in the Fade. He had Cole, Solas, and Iron Bull with him. Cole was rubbing his back as his body tried desperately to get rid of something in his stomach that wasn't there anymore out of fear.
As they traversed the Fade, Jack had mentally blocked out anything the Fear Demon tried to frighten him with. Though from the looks the Spirit of Divine Justinia, even she knew that he was suffering anyway.
"Inquisitor, such a haunted and broken thing your soul. How many lives have you lived, only to die and start all over again at the start of this mess?" The Demon asked, obviously intrigued at whatever he was able to find in Jack's head. Jack had to laugh hoarsely. That, that was a very good question. "If I'm honest, I lost count." Jack muttered with a tired look in his eyes. Surprisingly, that seemed to shut the thing up all the way until they fought it.
Once again, Stroud would not come back from the Fade. And Varric's relieved expression soothed a small bit of the guilt welling up in Jack's tired soul.
~
Jack was laying between the doors and the railing on the floor of his balcony, lost in thought. So much so, that he didn't hear the soft sounds of footsteps approaching him until a shadow covered the sun from his shut eyes. Tired blue eyes met storm grey. Solas was standing over him with a frown. Already, whatever was bothering the elf did not mean well for Jack's sanity.
"What did it mean? You dying and starting over again." Solas asked as he sat down next to Jack's still limp body. Jack felt whatever bit of peace he'd gained get snatched away. "I think it meant how I'd wind up reliving the events of the Conclave repeatedly in my head." Jack answered as he moved his right arm to cover his eyes. He could use the excuse of the sun if asked, but really it was because he didn't want to have this conversation. Solas would not remember it come the next life so, what would be the point? Jack yelped when he felt a weight settle itself on his hips. He looked at the sight before him in shock. Solas was sitting on him. The rare times Jack had been like this with Solas was the other way around. Jack had once been an elven woman, a mage. Her name had been Haiti. She had long raven hair, striking amethyst eyes, and pale skin. She had been the one who had suffered the first betrayal. That memory still stung.
Jack laid his hands on Solas' thighs, ready to push him off if the elf showed distaste or discomfort. The elf was silent, obviously digesting the information Jack had given him. Jack looked at him as he too delved into his memory. Haiti was a lovely elf from her time. She wasn't a city elf, but she wasn't Dalish either. Not fully. She wandered the woods of her home at a younger age, more interested in the history that was long forgotten. It's how he knows so much about the Elven and Elvhen cultures. Just like he knows about Dwarven, Human, Qunari, Tal-Vashoth, Magi, Apostate, Templars, etc. He was full of knowledge from different races.
Jack felt a pair of hands rest on his own and that jerked him out of his thoughts. The brunette looked at the pale elf above him and blinked. Solas was looking down at him with a soft scowl on his face. Jack had to cock his head in slight question as to what was on his mind. "Something troubles you, what is it?" Jack asked and Solas sighed softly before he leaned down to rest his forehead against Jack's chest. Jack's hands twitched, but they remained in their place.
"Nothing, My Friend. Nothing at all." Solas said softly as he moved his own hands to rest on either side of Jack's chest. Both of them were silent after that.
~
"You like him!"
Cole was staring at him while he was working on a report for Leliana. Jack was aware of his confused gaze, his fidgeting getting worse the deeper he delved no doubt. Tomorrow Jack, Solas, Cole, and Iron Bull would be going to the Storm Coast to see this Qun Agent. But Jack had to smile, they were going there just so Iron Bull would become Tal-Vashoth. Cole giggled a bit and Jack looked at him with a raised eyebrow.
Cole's declaration caused Jack to freeze. Did the human like the Qunari? Sure, it would be safe to court the other male. But did that mean he really did like him? Jack rested his pen down on the desk and began to dig into his heart for the answers he needed. He wasn't sure. He wasn't sure about anything anymore. He forgot what he liked and disliked long ago, when this whole mess started. "Did I hurt you, Jack?" Cole's soft voice was closer than it had been before. Jack blinked slowly as he looked up at the blonde Spirit.
"No, Cole. You didn't hurt me." Jack said softly, he didn't even register the fact that Cole had said his name. His mind was spiraling into darker thoughts. Lives spent seeing people he loved die, see him die, betray him, kill him, or hurt him in some form or another. He's had a relationship with all but a few of the inner circle. Cole, Vivienne, and Varric. He can't say Leliana, as he had one male human life become involved with her. He decided that it was not worth thinking about right now.
Tomorrow is more important.
~
Standing in the rain while they waited for Gatt to get to them left Jack open to his thoughts. He wonders why he keeps switching between the Qun and the Chargers. He knows what happens between both. It always results in deaths. It results in Iron Bull choosing between Hissrad or Iron Bull. If Jack goes with the Qun, Hissrad takes the place of Iron Bull. If he chose the Chargers, Iron Bull is turned Tal-Vashoth and stays Iron Bull.
"His mind twists with the choices of the past. One is like a sword; one is like a poison. One causes him to be in pain, and one causes him guilt. He can't decide between the slow death or the quick one." Cole said softly and Iron Bull looked at the Spirit. Then the male's one eye turns to the back of Jack's head. Jack keeps his face out of his sight. He stares stubbornly into the fog of the coast.
Gatt arrives before the other male can question what the spirit meant by that.
~
"Hissrad you have to leave them! If you don't, it will cost the Inquisition a powerful alliance!" Gatt shouted and Iron Bull turned to Jack, finding the human male staring at Gatt with a dark look. "You pull them back, or I pull them back." Jack's voice was cold even to his own ears. But he finally realized why he kept switching between the Qun and the Chargers.
He didn't place his trust in either side.
And Jack was ashamed.
Iron Bull nodded and called the horn. Making the Chargers pull back. Gatt growled in anger. "Why would you do that, Hissrad?! Why would you go Tal-Vashoth?! Half the Qun already thinks you are one! Why stay with them?!" Gatt shouted and Jack stepped closer to the elf. "His name is The Iron Bull. Besides, I trust the Chargers more than the word of someone I barely know." Jack snarled and Cole took hold of his arm.
Gatt sneered at him and then walked off. Unlike the other times he asked the question of the ship sinking, Jack waited silently for it to explode. Then he turned to Iron Bull and the male turned to him. "Come on. Let's head back to Skyhold."
The ride back to Skyhold was quiet outside of the constant muttering of Cole.
~
Jack watched the rain fall the next few days after that. His mind going pleasantly blank. He was currently curled up in his quarters, blanket over his shoulders and legs pulled up to his chest. His arms were wrapped around his knees, Anchor hidden underneath and out of sight. His chocolate hair was messy and tangled, and his eyes dull. He wasn't thinking about anything. Not the past, not the present, and not the future. The future he has repeated over and over again.
Jack didn't hear anyone enter his room. But he did get jolted back to reality when the bed shifted under Iron Bull and Solas' weight. Both elf and Tal-Vashoth cornered the human on his own bed. Jack huffed shakily and curled tighter into himself. "Did you two need something?" Jack asked when neither of the two spoke after a while. Iron Bull shifted, wrapping his arms around the human, causing the man to yelp as he was lifted into the other male's lap. Solas sat across from the two on his knees.
Jack was tense, looking between the two of them. What was happening? This had never happened before! "Are you two alright?" He asked softly and Solas huffed at his question. "The better question would be if you are alright, Inquisitor. You've been acting rather odd as of late." Solas said as Iron Bull moved the two of them to the center of the headboard. Jack was silent for a long time. Trying to decide what to answer that with. It wasn't like they would remember anything he told them anyway.
"I'm as good as someone like me can get, Sol. There isn't much I can do to ease that stress right now. Not until the Darkspawn is dealt with." Jack finally answered, Iron Bull snorted, and the brunette already knew what he was thinking. "You could have asked someone to bed you really good. That helps." Bull said and Jack smiled a small smile. "It only helps for so long though. And I don't want to trouble people simply to bed them. I'm more of a lasting relationship type person."
Both of the other males shared a look Jack wasn't sure he wanted to know the answer to. Before he knew it, he was laid down and wrapped in the blanket around his shoulders. He felt Iron Bull wrap his arm around his front while Solas moved to rest against his front. Jack was frozen for a good while. When the horned male started rubbing his stomach, it settled something in the brunette.
Jack couldn't keep his eyes open long enough to comment on it.
~
The Winter Palace was as chaotic and loud as always. People say the same things as before, only this time their words don't bother him. He finds all the things he needs, hears all the secrets, learns all there is to know. The uniform he wears makes him feel small and fragile. His mental state tipping over into a darker one. This time around, he keeps the courts attention firmly on him.
And this time, Empress Celine lives to form an alliance with the Inquisition. The brunette stands in the center of the balcony before he feels two different presences on either side of him. Solas and Iron Bull. They ease his stress and Jack convinces the elf to dance with him.
Dancing is one thing that never stresses the brunette.
~
The Arbor Wilds, Jack sneezed. Making Sera jump and scowl at him. He smiled apologetically and they continued onward to the puzzle room. He always loved doing the puzzles, they made him feel like he was an elf again when he became another race.
The Sentinels still scared the hell out of him though.
~
Abelas was confused when Jack slowly moved away from the edge of the structure. As was everyone else. The brunette was more tense than usual thanks to how close it was even now. As Jack, Morrigan, and Abelas talked, Jack's eyes kept darting between the edge and Abelas himself.
Thankfully no one commented on it and Abelas lived, much to Jack's relief. The Elvhen did not deserve to die for Morrigan's greed.
Jack would have to deal with Solas and Morrigan's lectures once they got home. Jack knew for a fact that he needed that knowledge more than she did. Seeing as the souls of Mythal's sentinels had the answers to the password later down the line.
~
Hearing so many voices soothed Jack. They blocked out the memories and silenced the screaming of the past lives he's lived.
Fighting the dragon of Mythal was still a pain, though he's eternally grateful he doesn't have to kill it.
~
Jack actually busted out laughing after all was said and done. He howled with laughter as his mind broke. Solas would leave, Dorian would leave, Varric would leave, Jack would lose his fucking arm. He held his head as his laughter dissolved into sobs. He went quiet when his eyes caught sight of the shattered orb. He looked up and into storm ridden ones.
Instead of apologizing. Instead of asking if it could be fixed. Instead of every other thing Jack could say, he just motioned to it. "I wish you the best of luck in rebuilding your empire. But I am fucking done. I've lived this fucking loop so many damn times I don't care anymore." Jack said as he slowly backed away from the orb and over towards where Cassandra's voice would call his attention away from the elf behind him. Giving the other the perfect opportunity to disappear.
He felt something slam into his back and Jack grunted as he fell over. He moved to see Solas wrapped around him. Jack was confused. Why was the elf holding onto him?
Solas looked up at him with tears in his eyes. Jack's own widened and the air in his lungs stalled. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry for everything." Solas said and Jack felt his mind break even more. Not once did Solas ever apologize. Not in any of the past lives lived. "What?" The human breathed and Solas sat up to let him twist around. Then the elf buried his face into Jack's chest.
"I remember everything. And I am so sorry." Solas said as the human tensed up. Hearing that, knowing that Solas could remember everything that's happened, caused Jack to sob. He shoke violently as the pain surged up within him. Solas and Jack both walked down the stairs together.
And this time, Jack felt a little better about the future.
#ocs#angst#oc#original au#dragon age inquisition#solas dai#solas x oc#iron bull#varric tethras#cassandra pentaghast#dorian pavus#spirit cole#corypheus#the breach#time loop#multiple lives#mentions of self harm#mentions of death#mental breakdown#suicide#self harm#mentally tired#male inquisitor#human inquisitor#slight canon divergence#but mostly canon
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BH6 Snippets - 2/11/2023
So I have aspirations to go through my named BH6 fics at least and add a chapter to each of them, so have some stuff from chapter 1 of that BH6/DS fanfic Umbral Symbiosis:
“So how are we doing?” Tadashi asked as they neared the others. “Do we look like a batch destined to be messily devoured?”
“Look, it’s bad enough Fred is doing this, don’t you start,” Gogo said, looking up from the radio she was working on to glower at him.
“Where is Fred, by the way?” Tadashi asked, looking around.
“Freddie’s looking for a gate,” Honey Lemon said. “I said that was a bad idea.”
“We all said that was a bad idea,” Wasabi said.
“Are you seriously trying to clean the great outdoors?” Hiro asked, sitting next to Gogo and looking over the disassembled radio.
“Ah-ah-ah don’t sit down there yet I have to clean that!”
“Give it up, Wasabi,” Gogo said. “And Hiro, pass me that smaller screwdriver, the one with the magnet tip.”
“So why are we working on a radio in the middle of nowhere?” Hiro asked, handing her the tool in question.
“Good question. Fred.”
“My dudes!” Fred greeted, coming out of the woods with what looked to Hiro like a combo of a Geiger counter and an ohmmeter. “How’s things going?”
“There’s not really a massive skull at the bottom of the lake, is there?” Hiro asked.
“There is according to my sources,” Fred announced, putting the device on the other bench. “At least that’s what the pictures looked like before the drone went blooey.”
“Probably shot down by the government,” Gogo said.
“Yeah, they’re real speedy when it’s local drones,” Tadashi muttered, looking over the burgers Honey Lemon was cooking. “Looks tasty. Also very clean.”
“Wasabi insisted on doing the grill first,” Honey Lemon said.
“Do you know how many other people have used that beforehand?” Wasabi demanded.
“And hopefully we’ll have the picnic table back before they’re done.”
“Still working on it,” Gogo said. “Which bears asking the question of why am I working on this, Fred.”
“It’s an important part of the Cyclum mythos,” Fred said, pulling a notebook out of his backpack and tapping on it. “Strange things pulled here from elsewhere by a shadowy cabal with mysterious motivations.”
“I’m working on this for nonsense, then.”
“I’ll help with the nonsense,” Tadashi said, coming over and sitting on Fred’s side. “That way we can get it done before dinner and while we’ve still got plenty of sun.”
“Um…we’re not staying out here overnight, are we?” Hiro asked.
“Hiro’s worried about Screechers.”
“I didn’t see any signs of them, but you never know,” Fred said. “Important thing to know is to not look directly at them. Also to know where Wasabi’s car is in case we need to bolt.”
Hiro is not good with the great outdoors and apparently neither is Wasabi.
In other news, the Screecher mod is terrifying and the fact that I live near deep woods does not help. D:
#bh6#dst#big hero 6#big hero six#don't starve#big hero 6 the series#big hero six the series#dont starve#bh6 month#bh6 month 2023#umbral symbiosis#my writing#fred#GoGo#wasabi#hiro#tadashi#honey lemon#tadashi brought along a story about the screechers because he is an imp of a big brother
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Fear and Desire — Chapter 02
Fandom: James Bond
Characters: Madeleine Swann, Lyutsifer Safin
Relationships: Madeleine Swann & Lyutsifer Safin, James Bond/Madeleine Swann
Warnings: Aftermath of violence, unreliable narrator.
Rating: M
Genre: Family/Hurt/Comfort/Suspense
Summary: "If the rule you followed brought you to this, of what use was the rule?"
— Cormac McCarthy (No Country for Old Men)
[Ao3 Link]
02: IN EVERY DREAM HOME A HEARTACHE
Huddled on the opposite side of the bed, hand over her mouth, she could see his black boots. His breath wheezed out of him like the air was full of needles. Each breath another puncture. Every step a fight against some invisible pull.
Five minutes ago she was cleaning her mother's vomit out of the floorboards. Fifteen minutes ago, paging her friends in Styria. Twelve years old and still watching Wallace and Gromit. Waiting for Papa to come home from his week-long business trip so he could tell her about the world. Mama didn't drink so much whenever he was around.
When he turned his back to her, she would sit up carefully and take aim. Shoot him in the back of the head and the nightmare would be over.
The pager went off. The man's ragged breath sharpened. Madeleine didn't hesitate, throwing herself over the side of her bed. With the gun on one arm, his aim was imprecise. It tore up the floor and the wall beside her. She unloaded the clip into his chest.
In the old black-and-white crime serials, there wasn't any blood from a gunwound. A pained grimace and the man would keel over. Madeleine would stay up to watch them with her mother who wouldn’t scold her if she was drunk enough. Men or women, down on their luck, falling in what they often called love. Love was a lot of pointless violence all for the sake of winning someone else's attention. Or embezzling money. They were just stories, said her father. Good as entertainment.
The gunman didn't bleed. But the impact was enough to startle him. He lost his footing and toppled over the banister and hit the floor below with a solid thud that shook the house. Madeleine couldn't hear over the ringing in her ears. After a minute she got up and looked and saw him crumpled like a discarded toy. He wasn’t moving when she came downstairs. The mask had fractured in the fall from where his face struck the banister. His face was heavily lined with scars. Trace of blood from the corner of his mouth.
Madeleine went into the living room where her mother was draped across the couch. Her eyes shifted to the spot of vomit she’d scrubbed away on hands and knees ten minutes ago. Her throat was tight. She picked up the blanket from the floor. She covered her mother’s body as if she were only sleeping. She walked back into the hall with blood on her hands and her boots.
In black-and-white crime serials, murderers always had to get rid of the body.
The gunman weighed twice as much as her, and blood was slippery. She had to grab him by the legs and haul him behind her like a sack of flour. On the way out, his rifle got stuck in the doorway. She let him fall inert and walked over and kicked him hard in the ribs and he did not react. She nudged him a few more times until he was lined up with the doorframe and picked him up by the legs again and began to drag him out into the snow. Out the front door, preoccupied with the situation and his body weight, she missed her next step and fell on her ass. He didn't react.
There were plenty of tools in the garage that were suitable to get rid of a body. She wasn’t strong enough to dig a shallow grave and when the snow thawed there would be a carcass left to be picked over by animals. Or police. But if she tied him down with something heavy he’d sink to the bottom of the lake and never resurface.
The gunman sucked in a breath and began to cough profusely. Madeleine threw herself away from him on her hands, onto the snow. Her hands stung but it didn't matter as much as the dead man pushing himself upright, spitting a small excess of blood and saliva into the snow. Their eyes met. Madeleine was running.
She had to get away. Out onto the frozen lake. The ice under her feet creaked. Rush of water beneath her boots. Even professional athletes gasped for air once their bodies submerged. If her head went under she'd take in water. Cold shock would kill her in just two minutes. If she stayed above the water, in fifteen to thirty minutes, she'd lose the ability to control her limbs and hands. Cold incapacitation. Seventy five percent of people succumbed to cold before hypothermia settled in.
She turned around. He had a limp but he would catch up quickly.
If she took him with her this wouldn’t be for nothing.
The ice opening up before she could scream. Clawing upwards but her fingers only kissed ice. Taking water into her lungs. Barely registering the footfalls on the ice above. The whiz of bullets past her head. The hand plunging into freezing water grasping her by the forearm wrenching her upwards. Into the arms of her mother’s murder. He was saying something but she couldn’t make out the words. On his feet. Putting up a fight was squirming in his grip like a disobedient puppy.
Into the house. Wheezing breath kept her awake. Footsteps lurched. Laid onto something soft. Stench of copper permeating her nose. She could taste it.
Cold skin against her naked throat suddenly aware she was shuddering. His hands were cool. Pressure off her neck. Naked hand on her shoulders, under her back. Glint of silver. She tried to scream and all that came out was a moan. Too hot. Waterlogged clothes refused to let go dragging her deeper into the ground.
One clean stroke of the knife and her throat was untouched. Naked air on wet skin. Soft down blankets wrapped around her waist. Struggling fitful against hands too lithe to be father's and stronger than mother's. Patted dry.
Her arms slid into a white coat that swallowed the rest of her body. Daylight beyond the window. Her hands and feet tingled worse than the rest of her body and her hair was slightly damp.
The last of Madeleine’s innocence lay across the room, under the blanket. Only sleeping.
She could smell something cooking. Papa's got the stove on. In a few minutes he would come to check on her.
The gunman appeared in her vision. Outside of the parka, his shoulders and arms were brittle. The rifle was absent. A trace of dry blood caked around his jaw. Bulletproof vest around his torso made him look that much frailer.
He said, Оставайтесь на месте.
His voice was gravelly, and very quiet. He tilted his head in her direction. Madeleline’s grasp on Russian wasn't strong enough to communicate. She had to be smarter than her mother. She met the eyes glinting underneath porcelain and asked, in careful English, Did you put me here?
He gave a curt nod.
Why?
I change you into dry clothes, he said. Or else you die.
You wanted to shoot me.
He averted his face toward the window. She could see the set of his jaw. Mottled skin. You should eat, he said. You are still very cold.
I don't want anything from you.
The gunman limped out of sight. He was looking for her father. In her mind replaying the image of her father's gnarled hands placing the gun into her own. Ruffling her hair. Her mother's tired scowl.
Accepting kindness from a monster no different than dying on her knees. Bravery was reserved for men and women in crime novels. They were not born helpless children but sprung into being full-formed, prepared to plunge into the jaws of a beast. They did not waste bullets.
His weight settled on the chair, the smell of him like gunpowder and copper. Looking at her, looking at the bowl of canned soup. A monster in the shape of a human.
I'm not hungry.
You are in shock.
How do I know it isn't poison?
He muttered, Боль в заднице. He reached up to adjust the mask. Madeleine shut her eyes tightly. If I took this off, he said, I'd have to kill you.
Hands on her shoulders, Madeleine's eyes opened. He was shifting her body upright. He took the bowl into his hands and sipped it. He set it down without any urgency.
There are ways to kill someone, he said. Polonium-210. Arsenic. Rat poison. Anything under your kitchen cabinet. There are more efficient ways to hurt in a garden. Calotropis emits a latex from its flowers and leaves, calotropin. Contract into a man's eyes and he is blind. Oleander. Clematis. He paused. You do not frighten easily.
Madeleine saw the shine his eyes beyond the the mask. His mouth a thin line.
If I leave now, you will be sick. Then your father loses a wife and daughter. Thinking bigger picture. Understand?
When her father got home he'd take her someplace safe. After a few phone calls the body would disappear.
Madeleine nodded. He set the bowl down next to her.
The prisoner sent to rot in safety. Sitting on the bed. Sunlight limned across rough concrete and her skin.
Smell of the sea and stale sweat. The taste of dehydration. Mathilde must be very hungry.
Her eyes flitted around the room. Spare furniture. It wouldn't be impossible to hide a camera in the facilities. Why stop with the invasion of her childhood home and her office in Belmarsh? Adhering to the threat of violence rather than inflicting it. Leaving no traces of himself but for memory was his mercy.
His voice disturbed that last scrap of innocence, hidden under the blankets. Only sleeping.
When his eyes raked over her there was no interest. His amusement was the last light of hope snuffed from her eyes. Subjected to the futility of her own clever strategy. Following orders would only delay the inevitable.
With her forehead to his shoulder he smelt a little like rosemary.
Think of anything else. James.
Five years ago, when he put her on the train leaving Matera.
After countless hours poking around in the heads of patients, James shut her out with easy, rehearsed answers. No doubt his psychological evaluations at MI6 were couched on the basis of his charisma. Then he shut her out with alcohol. Out in public he'd take her arm and smile. In private, they were never in the same room. He'd snap at her but never resort to violence. His life was a never-ending field mission. Any desire to settle down was fleeting. Boyish fancy.
There were a lot of ways to hurt someone without killing. No amount of what he inflicted upon her physically or mentally could save him from her own wicked mind.
Lucifer Safin was no different.
#no time to die#madeleine swann#lyutsifer safin#james bond gets namechecked#fanfic#fanfiction#a03#drama#suspense#multichapter#sorry this took forever!#I didn't like how I rushed into things last time
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Get The Hair You Have Always Wanted With This Hair Care Info
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Are you aware that conditioner should never be applied to the roots of your hair? This is because it can make them too heavy and weigh them down, causing a flat look. Only add the conditioner to your hair from mid-length down to the bottom of its ends for best results.
It is important that you only buy shampoos and conditioners that match your hair type. For example, if you have dry hair, you should purchase shampoos and conditioners made specifically for dry hair. Your hair's condition will not improve if you do not buy the relevant products to help it.
Make sure you are getting proper nutrition and rest. Stress, on its own, does not make your hair fall out. Normal hair loss is from 50 to 120 strands each day. Stress does, however, use up additional resources and when your body becomes deficient, hair loss can result. Resources include the B Vitamins and other important nutrients. Additionally, poor sleep over time wears down your body's adrenal system, impacting hormones, which can also trigger hair loss.
Styling tools that use heat also do the most damage. So, before using any heated appliance, be sure to apply some kind of a styling product to help protect your hair follicles. These products will protect your hair against strong heat that you apply to your hair.
Always leave 48 hours before your first shampoo after a color treatment on your hair. When your hair has had color applied, the cuticle requires time to reseal otherwise the color will quickly fade. Try not to get your hair wet the first 48 hours after you dye it. You'll be happy you waited when you see your shiny, healthy hair.
Don't become too loyal to one brand of conditioner or shampoo. chola hairstyles might have something new and different to offer your hair. You might find that one brand helps your scalp, while another helps it stay straight and smooth.
When shampooing, pay close attention so you can avoid removing all the beneficial natural oils on your scalp. Even if your hair is oily, a harsh shampoo which gets rid of all oil can create a rebound effect where your hair produces too much oil. Try to use a very gentle shampoo instead if you can. There are people who only clean their hair with conditioner a couple of times a week.
When you are drying from the shower, be gentle on your wet hair. Using a heavy hand can promote breakage of the hair. Rather, gently squeeze excess water from the hair. Next, pat your hair dry with a towel. Also, try to use a towel that is softer, rather than rougher.
Use a towel to dry your hair as much as possible before using a blow dryer. The heat from blow dryers could be very damaging to the hair. The heat strips the hair's natural oils away and your hair needs this moisture to stay healhty and look shiny. You can apply less heat if you use the towel to remove as much water as possible in advance.
Protect your hair from the sun just as you do your skin. Always wear a hat in the heat of summer and consider using a sun protecting spray while at the beach or the pool. In addition to protecting your hair, it will also keep your scalp from burning from excessive exposure to the sun. Color-treated hair fades faster in the sun, as well.
If you value your hair color, wear a swimming cap before jumping into a chlorinated pool. Chlorine causes hard metals, present in all water in various concentrations, to oxidize, and that in turn can add a green tinge to any hair color. Applying a coat of conditioner before swimming can help, but most public pools frown on that practice. Stick to swimming in lakes and ponds to keep hair from looking like it belongs on a Martian.
Hair care principles help you take care of your hair regardless of what type of hair you have. Now that you've read this article, you should understand what you need to do in order to keep your hair looking at its best. Good luck, and enjoy your new, healthier hair.
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Guide to Choosing the Right Lake Pond Circulator
Lake and pond circulators are invaluable tools for maintaining the health and aesthetics of aquatic ecosystems. These devices help prevent stagnant water, promote oxygenation, and control algae growth. However, with various options available on the market, choosing the right circulator can be overwhelming. To aid in your selection process, this guide outlines key factors to consider when investing in a lake or pond circulator.
Understand Your Waterbody's Needs: Before purchasing a circulator, assess the specific requirements of your lake or pond. Factors such as size, depth, shape, and existing ecosystem dynamics will influence the type and capacity of circulator needed. For instance, a larger waterbody may require multiple circulators strategically placed for optimal coverage.
Determine Circulator Type: Lake and pond circulators come in different types, each designed to address specific challenges. Surface aerators, submersible mixers, and bottom diffused aerators are among the common options. Surface aerators are ideal for oxygenating surface waters and preventing ice formation in colder climates. Submersible mixers are effective for circulating water in deeper lakes and ponds, while bottom diffused aerators are suitable for increasing oxygen levels in deep waters without disrupting surface aesthetics.
Assess Power Requirements: Consider the power source available near your waterbody when selecting a circulator. Options include electric, solar, and wind-powered circulators. Electric circulators provide consistent performance but require access to electricity. Solar-powered circulators are eco-friendly and suitable for remote locations with ample sunlight. Wind-powered circulators harness wind energy to circulate water, making them ideal for windy regions with minimal sunlight.
Evaluate Installation and Maintenance: Ease of installation and maintenance are crucial factors to consider, especially for long-term ownership. Choose a circulator that is easy to install without the need for extensive expertise or specialized equipment. Additionally, opt for models with durable construction and minimal maintenance requirements to ensure longevity and hassle-free operation. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the intake screens and inspecting components, is essential for optimal performance.
Consider Additional Features: Some circulators come with additional features that enhance their functionality and efficiency. Variable speed controls allow you to adjust the circulation intensity based on seasonal changes or specific needs. Programmable timers enable automated operation, conserving energy and streamlining maintenance. Built-in lighting options are beneficial for enhancing nighttime aesthetics and visibility.
Budget and Cost of Ownership: Set a budget that aligns with your requirements and long-term goals for your waterbody. While upfront costs are important, consider the overall cost of ownership, including installation, energy consumption, and maintenance expenses. Investing in a high-quality circulator may result in lower long-term costs and better performance, ultimately saving you time and money in the future.
Seek Expert Advice: If you're unsure about the best circulator for your lake or pond, consult with aquatic management professionals or suppliers specializing in water circulation systems. They can offer personalized recommendations based on your specific needs, budget, and environmental conditions. Additionally, they can provide valuable insights on installation techniques, maintenance practices, and regulatory compliance.
Conclusion: Choosing the right lake or pond circulator requires careful consideration of various factors, including waterbody size, type, power requirements, installation, maintenance, features, budget, and expert advice. By understanding your waterbody's needs and evaluating circulator options accordingly, you can ensure optimal water quality, ecosystem health, and aesthetic appeal for years to come.
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Empowering Indian Digital Lenders: The Role of Data Engineering in Fintech
The financial services industry is experiencing a whirlwind of transformation, and nowhere is this more evident than in India's Banking and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs). At the heart of this profound shift lies the intersection of finance and technology, commonly referred to as Fintech. And what underpins this fintech revolution? It's none other than the field of data engineering.
Why Data Engineering?
Data engineering, in essence, is the discipline dedicated to designing, constructing, and maintaining the architecture that enables the effective collection, storage, processing, and utilization of data. In an era where data has risen to prominence as the "new oil," the role of data engineering in facilitating data-driven decision-making, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enhancing the customer experience has never been more critical for all players in India's Fintech landscape.
The Foundation of Fintech: Building a Resilient Data Architecture
The initial step toward harnessing the potential of data involves the establishment of a robust data architecture. This architecture encompasses essential elements such as data pipelines, ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes, and data warehousing. An efficient data pipeline ensures that data flows seamlessly from diverse sources to a centralized data warehouse, where it undergoes cleaning, organization, and preparation for analysis.
Within the fintech realm, data flows in from a multitude of sources, including customer interactions, transactions, social media, and more. By implementing scalable cloud-based solutions like AWS Redshift, Google BigQuery, or Azure Data Lake, Fintechs can efficiently manage the staggering volume of data, extracting real-time insights that drive strategic decisions.
Data Governance and Compliance
Data governance serves as the second pillar of a robust data engineering strategy. It involves overseeing data availability, usability, integrity, and security within enterprise systems. In the context of India's Banks and NBFCs, which operate under strict regulatory guidelines set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), data governance assumes paramount importance.
Effective data governance necessitates the deployment of advanced data management solutions, such as Apache Atlas or Collibra, which ensure data lineage, quality, and metadata management. These tools empower Financial Institutions to meet RBI's regulatory compliance requirements, providing a comprehensive audit trail for every data point and safeguarding against potential risks and liabilities.
Enhancing Customer Experiences through Data Engineering
Finally, data engineering stands as the linchpin for optimizing customer experiences. Machine learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) thrive on large volumes of high-quality data. By virtue of well-structured data engineering strategies, Fintechs can provide these algorithms with the right data, thereby enabling personalized customer interactions and services.
AI/ML applications extend across diverse areas, including customer segmentation, credit scoring, fraud detection, and targeted marketing. Data engineering paves the way for these advanced analytics capabilities, which directly impact the bottom line.
The Bottom Line: A Competitive Edge Through Data Engineering
In the fiercely competitive fintech landscape, those who harness data engineering effectively gain a strategic advantage. Enhanced decision-making, regulatory adherence, and elevated customer experiences contribute to expanded market presence, reduced costs, and heightened profitability.
While the technical intricacies of data engineering may appear formidable, its business implications are resoundingly clear and far-reaching. By strategically investing in data engineering capabilities, Financial Institutions can transition into fully data-driven entities. This becomes a pivotal differentiator in the next phase of the fintech revolution in India, laying the foundation for the future of financial services.
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Fundamentals #5
Last week we went over photoshop image adjustments, learning about colour grading using Curves, Hue/saturation etc. Following up on that, this week we learnt about Layers, Masks and selecting. We started off with a picture of a boat sailing in a lake and out goal was to duplicate it and make it look like there were two side by side. (Note: I unfortunately lost some of my screen grabs from this week, so i'll try be extra descriptive) We started off by making a copy of the original image, then using a Marquee tool to cut a box out around the boat on the copy image. Then once we had our Marquee, we Clicked the mask button, which is the little icon at the bottom of the layers panel that looks like a circle in a box. Once this was done we finally had our mask, but you could easily see that it was a cut out. To fix this we learnt to hold down Option and click on our mask this gave us a B&W view of our mask, making it easier to see what was in our mask and what was not. We then proceeded to use the brush tool (using X to change it from add to subtract). I turned the opacity of the brush way. down and turned the feather up to 90%, going around the boat. once this was done you could barely tell that it was a cut out.
The next Image we worked on was one of a fruit basket. The goal was to make a marquee using the pen tool and changing the Hue/saturation on it. We started off by using the pen tool (which is practically the same as the one in illustrator) and cutting out the orange. We used the same techniques that we used before with the anchor points and the handles. I tried my best to use as little anchor points as possible and just focus on using the bezier curves. Once we had drawn around the orange and had the points connected we needed to turn it into a marquee. To do this we went into the Paths menu. Once in there, you could see the work path you made using the pen tool. We then selected that and then clicked the Load path as selection button, which looks like a dotted circle at the bottom of the paths menu. Now you have a Marquee You need to do the same process a before by pressing the mask button on the layers menu. And Just like that you have a cut out. Now using the same methods as we did last week, we needed to change the the saturation of the masked layer. So with our layer selected we put on an adjustment layer and change the Hue/saturation. We then need to clip this adjustment layer to the masked layer we had selected. To do this we need to click the button at the bottom of out adjustment layer menu that looks like a box with an arrow pointing down. And there you have it, now you can adjust the mask as you please. We also looked at some other tools that can make the whole masking process easier like the quick selection tool and the object selection tool.
After this we kept playing around with some other images, but pretty much used the same fundamentals as the last two images I talked about. The last images we worked on was one of a humming bird. We had to cut out the humming bird using one of the methods we used before and clean up the edges a bit using the brush tool. We then copied our mask onto a different background so it looked like the humming bird was drinking from a flower. And the other one of a plant which we used the same technique I explained for the orange one we did.
Here is my bookwork where I wrote down most of the buttons and technical stuff I learnt.
For our homework we had too cut out too images and place them onto backgrounds. I cut out a space shuttle and put it onto a picture of the edge of the atmosphere. And for my other one, I cut out a car and put it onto a background of a salt desert and then blurred the background to give it a speedy look.
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Slab & Coil and Mug Assignment 3/15/23
This is a two part assignment.
Begin with assignment one first and the second assignment can be done beginning Tuesday after the glazing demo.
I have added videos for each assignment and a glazing video that explains what glazing is.
You need to watch all of them and be familiar with the information they contain.
ASSIGNMENT 1 - SLAB AND COIL
You will begin by doing a slab and coil assignment first then move on to the build a mug as per the instructions below.
Students will learn the Slab technique today.
Slab form is the third technique used to create hand build form.
Is a valuable technique when creating mugs and larger vases.
In today’s assignment you will start with a slab cut right out of your clay bag.
Once you remove it with your tool , you will use your palm to softly and gently tap it into for.
You will slap it against your work table as you do when you throw a stone in a lake to skip water, sideways.
Another example would be if you were working with pizza dough, you throw it sideways to allow the dough to expand.
This will help the clay expand into the form we need before rolling it with the rolling pin.
Once you have done that you will measure a rectangle that is approximately Four inches in height .
You will then create a bottom that is about Two inches in diameter. This is the bottom of your cylinder.
Once you have both bottom and rectangle, you will slide your cutting tool beveled against the rectangle form.
That will be one side of the cup, turn the rectangle to the opposite edge and cut the other side beveled again.
Both sides are beveled in opposite directions but when you put them together they will create a nice sealed fit.
Note:
I sit the the slab on top of the cylindrical (cookie) shape. I dab a tiny bit of water and then, tap it gently to seal it.
On the inside use your slightly wet brush to seal the cylinder cup.
All edges of your clay should always be clean and rounded.
You need to have a clean finish when you work to show that you have mastered the technique.
You must therefore do quality control as you complete. Check that everything fits nicely, it is sealed and looks good.
Finish the pot with about a two inch coiled at the top.
This assignment is the first step to teach you how to do a mug which you will do next.
Post all work and progress on Tumblr. I check your pages regularly everyday. That is how I record your attendance and class progress.
Lastly, there are several videos for this assignment that you can watch over and over.
The first one is a time lapse, then the other two one has music and the other has me talking you through it.
Good luck work on this assignment today and Tuesday .
For the mug I will have a video so you will watch that then begin to work on that once you have finished this one.
On Tuesday I will give additional tips on the mug.
You can start reading instructions on that assignment below.
ASSIGNMENT 2 - HANDBUILD MUG
During the weekend, look on Pinterest for hand built ceramic mug and get some ideas for working on this next Tuesday.
Watch the demo with instructions on how to create a hand built mug above this link.
This assignment will take a couple of classes.
Your aim is not to do the assignment quickly but rather to build a cup correctly.
To begin preparing for that assignment, you need to create a template using cardboard from a cereal box or stock paper.
Find your favorite mug or tea cup and that will be you model in regards to proportions.
Do not use anything too big, just a normal size mug.
This is my favorite mug..
Now measure the circumference and height of the cup and approximate the diameter of the bottom.
Those will be the dimensions of your template.
To create the mug we will use the template to measure out a slab of clay and you will grab a piece of clay to coil the handle.
This part of the construction will be similar to the slab and coil pot YOU DID FIRST.
NOTE: You need to do the slab and coil assignment FIRST above this assignment .
You will need to cut out three different pieces of clay.
One for the handle about the size of a golf ball.
The second for the bottom of the mug size of a cookie.
The final piece is slightly bigger than a tennis ball for the body about a 1.5 lbs.
Starting with the small piece of clay you will roll a thick coil for your handle. You will form it to create a C similar to the profile of an ear. It also should be comfortable to your hand.
Make sure you round the edges once it has the form you like you will cut the top and bottom in a beveled angle. That will be the sides that will attach to your cup.
Now put it aside so it can firm up while you continue with the next step.
Start pinching a cookie size form. It needs to be slightly thicker. Once you have a form you will use the rolling pin to make it uniform. Now use the round template for your cookie. Cut it accordingly. Make sure the edge is rounded. Now use the kidney to clean the surface. Make sure it does not have a rough surface.
Next , you will start with the body of the cup.
This slab of clay will be cut to the size of your template.
Roll the slab keeping about an 1/8 of an inch thickness.
Expand the clay first by lightly tapping it on your board (skip a rock on the lake format) then rolling it with a rolling pin slightly.
Once you have the approximate size place the template on top to cut to the right size.
With the slab cut to the right size now use the kidney tool (can be steel or the wooden one ) to clean the inside of the mug wall making sure there are no bubbles or any rough surfaces. you will do this for the bottom and the inside of the mug itself.
Once the form is cut to size, you will cut the edge in a beveled format .
Take one side cut it , then turn it around and cut the other side in the opposite beveled direction. Once you put this two sides together they will fit nice and tight.
At this time I am going to ask you to look at the video so you can continue with the assignment.
It will be added above this link.
You will be doing this assignment for a couple of class days.
Post you progress photos. I need to see that you have clean seams otherwise they will come apart.
Post photos of seams, bottom of cup, attachment of handle and complete cup.
These are class demo cups from previous classes.
from the top
ALL WORK NEEDS TO BE ADDED TO YOUR TUMBLR PORTFOLIO.
NEXT WEEK ON TUESDAY I WANT TO START GLAZING.
ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY FOR THE DEMO.
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Everything You Need To Know About Fish Nets - Usage, Variations And Care
From this article you can learn fish nets.
Fish Nets have been used for centuries, mainly by fishermen and fish farmers. They are an essential tool in the aquaculture industry, and they are also used in recreational fishing. Fish nets are made up of a variety of materials, and they come in all shapes and sizes. In this article, we will explore the different types of nets, their uses and how to care for them.
Types of Fish Nets
The most common type of fish net is the monofilament gill net. This type of net is made from nylon or polyester monofilament and is used to trap fish by entangling their gills. Gill nets can be set to target specific sizes and species of fish. They are usually used in shallow waters and can be set temporarily or left in place for long periods of time.
Another type of fish net is the trawl net. These nets are wider than gill nets and are used to catch larger fish. They are usually towed behind a boat, and the net is open at both ends. Trawl nets can be used to target specific species or sizes of fish, and they are usually used in deeper waters.
Seine nets are another type of fish net. These nets are used to encircle and capture schools of fish. The net is dragged along the bottom of the ocean or lake and the fish are trapped in the net. Seine nets can be used to target specific species or sizes of fish.
Uses of Fish Nets
Fish nets are used for a variety of purposes. Fishermen use them to catch fish for food or for sale. Fish farmers use them to capture and transfer fish from one location to another. Recreational fishermen use them to catch and release fish. Fish nets can also be used to exclude predators or other unwanted species from an area.
Caring for Fish Nets
Fish nets should be cleaned and stored properly to ensure they remain in good condition. Nets should be rinsed with fresh water after each use and dried thoroughly before storing. Nets should also be inspected regularly for damage or wear and tear. If a net is damaged, it should be repaired or replaced immediately.
Conclusion
Fish nets are an essential tool for fishermen and fish farmers. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are used for a variety of purposes. It is important to properly maintain fish nets to ensure they remain in good condition. By understanding the different types of nets, their uses, and how to care for them, you can ensure that your fish nets are safe and effective.
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What Are Amphibious Excavators Used For?
Amphibious excavators are utilized in a wide range of tasks and applications, which are presented as follows.
Industrial Applications
We all know that amphibious excavators are mainly used to work in swamps and wetlands. However, there are a variety of other industrial applications where amphibious excavators can do a great job.
Amphibious excavators are referred to as the best option to be used for excavation tasks around riverbeds, oceanic costs, and most importantly, in the areas which have been hit by floods recently. Amphibious excavators can help optimize operating time and save tons of expenses in such areas. In addition, amphibious excavators can make the job easier in several other applications, which include disaster and flood recovery efforts, environmental remediation, dredging, highway laying, and pipeline laying.
Environmental Dredging
Amphibious excavators are not only limited to the construction areas but can be extended to work for environmental dredging. Traditional excavators can make the task much harder in shallow water depths because, in such depths, the excavators can get stuck or not reach the desired area. On the contrary, amphibious excavators are versatile equipment that can be handled well on land and float on water. Thus, the operator doesn’t have to think hard about whether he should be operating too far from the edge of the water or too close.
Environmental Dredging by Amphibious Excavators
The pressure on the ground is analyzed by the weight and tracks of the machinery. If the equipment is of convenient weight and has wide tracks, it means there will be no excessive pressure on the ground, and the operation can be carried out. On the other hand, deep furrows can emerge if the equipment is heavy. Moreover, mounting a dredge pump to the excavator guarantees optimal production and movement rates.
Excavation Dredging and Suction Dredging
Excavation dredging is usually carried out in shallow water areas, which go down to at least 9 meters. This kind of excavation dredging must be done with amphibious excavators because they provide optimal performance and don’t have a limited reach. Besides this, amphibious excavators can remove stones or mud, clean industrial waste ponds, and transform warehouse spaces.
Dredging of reservoir and input channels in the hydroelectric plant
At the bottom of the dam reservoir and inlet channels, a variety of sediments get accumulated. Using the amphibious excavators, these sediments can be dredged to maintain sufficient flow for several plant operations. It is also done to ensure that the internal machinery of the hydroelectric plants is maintained and taken care of.
Cutting of aquatic vegetation
With the help of amphibious excavators, unevenly growing aquatic vegetation at the bottom of a lake or a river can be cut down. To prevent the re growth of the plants, it is important to take out the complete roots of the plant. If the conditions demand, the operators can use special hydraulic tools to remove aquatic vegetation.
Amphibious Excavators used for Cleaning
Cleaning
Amphibious excavators can easily work their way around narrow waterways and canals. Using these excavators, the excess sediment, tree leaves, trash, and branches, which accumulate at the bottom of the canal, can be taken out by dredging.
Mining Industry
Amphibious excavators can be used for a lot of operations occurring in the mining industry. Generally, these excavators are used for drainage and dam work along with assisting water pumps.
For more information visit us at https://coolwaymfg.com/
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Tips on How to Maintain the Quality of Your Wakeboard Gear
If your wakeboard isn't getting wet right now, there's plenty you can do at home to look after it. Waterski equipment maintenance requires little effort and can be completed anywhere you store them. Regular maintenance will ensure that you don't have any problems once you're back on the water. With our guide to wakeboard maintenance, you'll be completely prepared for your next thrilling ride out in the water!
Store the Wakeboard in the Shade
When you’re not riding your board, it will be best to keep it in a shaded area as much as away from direct sunlight. The sun’s ultraviolet rays can break down the elements that make up the material of a wakeboard resulting in discolouration, fading, and weakening of its materials by turning it brittle and corroding the metal parts.
Rinse with Freshwater
Just like boats, after you’ve used your wakeboard in salt water, rinse it right away with fresh water. Make sure to clean every surface, nook, and cranny of your wakeboard. Pay close attention to the metal or chrome fittings of your wakeboard; they can corrode easily once the minerals from the salt water settle there if you neglect to wash your wakeboard with fresh water. Corrosion can lead to loose fittings and costly repairs.
Always Check Bindings and Fins Before And After Use
Always remember to inspect your wakeboard’s bindings and fins before and after you hit the water. Boards can break either from going big or landing awkwardly. If you’re being irresponsible and don’t bother inspecting it, you may not notice that there are tears or cracks in the bindings and binding retention bolts have become loose which could result in bigger damage to your boards. Riding with even the smallest tear can completely trash the board.
While you’re inspecting the bindings, don’t forget to check your fins if they are securely attached to your board. Fins that are not bolted securely on your board can unfasten quickly, and once that happens, they can sink to the bottom of the lake or the sea and they will be hard to find and retrieve once they settle down there. Furthermore, fins are important parts of your wakeboard since you will need them to ride the water.
If you’ve noticed that these parts have come loose, it may be not a good idea to repair them by yourself if you’re not familiar with how to repair wakeboards. You don’t want to temporarily fix the problem, right? So, you need an expert to do this dirty job for you to fix the problem right away.
Get in touch with professionals who do repairs on watersports equipment. If you can’t get much of it, it’s perhaps time to buy a new wakeboard. If you don’t have any extra cash to buy a brand-new one, you can buy used wakeboards that are still in great shape and quality. You can get them at a great bargain. Just head over to your local marine stores and wakeboard shops and peruse their wakeboard stocks and choose which fits you best.
Wakeboards, just like any other gear, tools, and equipment, can age and deteriorate over time but you can slow this process down if you take good care and inspect your wakeboard regularly.
Store the Wakeboard in a Bag
Another practical tip for taking care of your board is to pair it with a wakeboard bag. The bag will serve as protection in storage and during travel. Bags may not seem like much. Yet they’re the first line of defence against bumps, jarrings, and scratches that may threaten the wakeboard’s surface.
Remember to wipe the wakeboard dry before storing it. In addition to this, look for a cool and dry place to have it sit in before you’re ready to take it out for a spin again. You won’t want mould and mildew to grow on your wakeboard because of the dark and damp environment. Not only do they make your wakeboard smell musty but they can also deteriorate your wakeboard’s quality.
Keep Sunscreen Away
Sunscreen, lotions, and oils should be kept away from your wakeboard binding at all costs. These substances will deteriorate the rubber in your bindings fast and make them greasy and slimy. If the rubber bindings get deteriorated, your foot can easily slide out of the boots, making it hard for you to control the board with your body and risk getting injured when you crash.
Don’t Forget to Maintain Your Wakeboarding Rope As Well
Aside from your wakeboard, your rope is also essential while you’re doing the sport. Make sure to maintain its best quality so you can avoid buying new ropes often. Just like your wakeboard, store the rope out of direct sunlight since the UV rays can break down the fibres of the rope. If you’ve used your wakeboarding gear in salt water, don’t forget to rinse off your rope with fresh water after you’ve used it to prevent dirt and salt elements from seeping through the rope and causing weak spots. If you have extra cash, buy more than one rope so you can use it alternately. Over time wakeboard ropes stretch longer than their original length that will become permanent. Avoid this by purchasing two or more wakeboard ropes in wakeboard shops.
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Why You Should Buy Ice Eaters
If you have a lake or pond, you might want to buy ice eaters to melt existing ice and prevent it from forming. Ice eaters work by breaking up the surface with a constant circulation of warmer bottom water. The propeller draws this warm subsurface water up to the surface and deflects it back down to the water surface, creating a continuous current that prevents ice from forming.
There are different types of ice eaters, but most are designed to prevent the formation of ice or melt existing ice. Ice eaters are useful in both freshwater and saltwater environments, because they keep the water moving, which keeps fish alive. These units are also useful for fishing boats and other vessels. You can learn more about boat here.
Depending on the model, some Ice Eaters come with an optional dock mount accessory that allows for complete positioning control. This accessory features a steel mounting base with clevis pins, a pipe holder, and a tightening handle. Customers are responsible for providing a 1-5/16" stainless or galvanized pipe and U-bolts. Read more great facts, click here.
Ice eaters are especially useful for duck hunters, as they can help hunters keep their water areas open in cold weather. If ducks are trapped in an iced-over area, they will most likely migrate to another area. However, if the ice eats up their honey holes, you can still harvest the ducks.
Another great option is the Power House Water Circulating Ice Eater, which is useful in both summer and winter. These machines work by creating currents around docks and fishing docks, which attracts fish and prevents the formation of ice. Furthermore, these machines can remove oil spills from docks, which helps keep the water clean.
When buying an Ice Eater, be sure to consider the size of your water body before you buy. It should be at least 24 inches deep and have enough space above the bottom for at least 12 inches. This way, you'll have enough room for your Ice Eater. And be sure to choose a model with a dock mount kit, as it's more durable than other models.
Buying a quality Ice Eater is an investment in your waterways. This tool is an effective way to keep your ponds, marinas, and docks open for duck migration. The Ice Eater's propeller draws up warmer subsurface water and deflects it up to the surface. This continuous circulation keeps the water warm and prevents ice from forming.
Another important consideration when buying an Ice Eater is the power cord. Most models come with 115V or 230V power cords, but make sure to choose one with a long cord so that you won't need an extension cord. Extension cords can reduce the efficiency of an Ice Eater and can damage it. Kindly visit this website https://www.dictionary.com/browse/boat for more useful reference.
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