12x16 cedar shed w loft
Adnan Syed
2015.05.29 20:23 Adnan Syed
2024.05.14 14:45 LChris24 Fire, The Hound & the Lord of Light (Spoilers Extended)
Background
Note: I don't think gods exist in ASOIAF, they are just sources of magic. So when I say R'hllor throughout the post I pretty much just mean "fire magic".
The Initial Burning
While the Hound is walking Sansa home from the Hand's Tourney, he gives Sansa the story of how he was burned:
Several chapters before that, we see the Hound's "terrible face" in Bran's vision of the shadows during his coma dream (note that the scope of the series was much smaller here):
In his next encounter with fire, the Hound flees the Battle on the Blackwater:
When Sandor fights Beric we see a flaming sword seemingly begin to defeat the Hound:
What's Next?
When the Hound begins to follow them, some members want him dead but Thoros states that there must be some purpose left for Sandor.
Doesn't really deserve its own section, but I thought this matched up really well:
TLDR: It is no secret that GRRM has been building up Sandor Clegane (formerly the Hound) and fire from the beginning. With him surviving his fight with a flaming sword (not wildfire) there is some potential "purpose" left for his life (Arya wouldn't end it for him either).
submitted by LChris24 to asoiaf [link] [comments]
The septons preach about the seven hells. What do they know? Only a man who's been burned knows what hell is truly like. -AGOT, Sansa IIGRRM has been hinting around about Sandor Clegane and his relationship with fire since the beginning (its the first thing mentioned about him in AGOT, Eddard I). In this post I thought I would explore that a bit and see what it could mean for TWoW.
Note: I don't think gods exist in ASOIAF, they are just sources of magic. So when I say R'hllor throughout the post I pretty much just mean "fire magic".
The Initial Burning
While the Hound is walking Sansa home from the Hand's Tourney, he gives Sansa the story of how he was burned:
"Most of them, they think it was some battle. A siege, a burning tower, an enemy with a torch. One fool asked if it was dragonsbreath." His laugh was softer this time, but just as bitter. "I'll tell you what it was, girl," he said, a voice from the night, a shadow leaning so close now that she could smell the sour stench of wine on his breath. "I was younger than you, six, maybe seven. A woodcarver set up shop in the village under my father's keep, and to buy favor he sent us gifts. The old man made marvelous toys. I don't remember what I got, but it was Gregor's gift I wanted. A wooden knight, all painted up, every joint pegged separate and fixed with strings, so you could make him fight. Gregor is five years older than me, the toy was nothing to him, he was already a squire, near six foot tall and muscled like an ox. So I took his knight, but there was no joy to it, I tell you. I was scared all the while, and true enough, he found me. There was a brazier in the room. Gregor never said a word, just picked me up under his arm and shoved the side of my face down in the burning coals and held me there while I screamed and screamed. You saw how strong he is. Even then, it took three grown men to drag him off me. The septons preach about the seven hells. What do they know? Only a man who's been burned knows what hell is truly like. -AGOT, Sansa IIBran's Vision
Several chapters before that, we see the Hound's "terrible face" in Bran's vision of the shadows during his coma dream (note that the scope of the series was much smaller here):
He looked south, and saw the great blue-green rush of the Trident. He saw his father pleading with the king, his face etched with grief. He saw Sansa crying herself to sleep at night, and he saw Arya watching in silence and holding her secrets hard in her heart. There were shadows all around them. One shadow was dark as ash, with the terrible face of a hound. Another was armored like the sun, golden and beautiful. Over them both loomed a giant in armor made of stone, but when he opened his visor, there was nothing inside but darkness and thick black blood. -AGOT, Bran IIIworth noting that R'hllor is referred to as the "god of flame and shadow" as well:
On one side is R'hllor, the Lord of Light, the Heart of Fire, the God of Flame and Shadow. Against him stands the Great Other whose name may not be spoken, the Lord of Darkness, the Soul of Ice, the God of Night and Terror. Ours is not a choice between Baratheon and Lannister, between Greyjoy and Stark. It is death we choose, or life. Darkness, or light." -ASOS, Davos IIIThe Blackwater
In his next encounter with fire, the Hound flees the Battle on the Blackwater:
The night of the battle, Sandor Clegane had come to her chambers to take her from the city, but Sansa had refused. Sometimes she lay awake at night, wondering if she'd been wise. She had his stained white cloak hidden in a cedar chest beneath her summer silks. She could not say why she'd kept it. The Hound had turned craven, she heard it said; at the height of the battle, he got so drunk the Imp had to take his men. But Sansa understood. She knew the secret of his burned face. It was only the fire he feared. That night, the wildfire had set the river itself ablaze, and filled the very air with green flame. Even in the castle, Sansa had been afraid. Outside . . . she could scarcely imagine it. -ASOS, Sansa ITrial by Combat
When Sandor fights Beric we see a flaming sword seemingly begin to defeat the Hound:
The flaming sword leapt up to meet the cold one, long streamers of fire trailing in its wake like the ribbons the Hound had spoken of. Steel rang on steel. No sooner was his first slash blocked than Clegane made another, but this time Lord Beric's shield got in the way, and wood chips flew from the force of the blow. Hard and fast the cuts came, from low and high, from right and left, and each one Dondarrion blocked. The flames swirled about his sword and left red and yellow ghosts to mark its passage. Each move Lord Beric made fanned them and made them burn the brighter, until it seemed as though the lightning lord stood within a cage of fire. "Is it wildfire?" Arya asked Gendry.but at the very end we see Sandor somehow win this "holy thing":
"No. This is different. This is . . ." -ASOS, Arya VI
Smooth as summer silk, Lord Beric slid close to make an end of the man before him. The Hound gave a rasping scream, raised his sword in both hands and brought it crashing down with all his strength. Lord Beric blocked the cut easily . . .so he is set free by the Brotherhood, minus his gold (Fun Fact: The Brotherhood ends up with a good amount of gold from the Hand's Tourney).
"Noooooo," Arya shrieked.. . .
but the burning sword snapped in two, and the Hound's cold steel plowed into Lord Beric's flesh where his shoulder joined his neck and clove him clean down to the breastbone. The blood came rushing out in a hot black gush.
Sandor Clegane jerked backward, still burning. He ripped the remnants of his shield off and flung them away with a curse, then rolled in the dirt to smother the fire running along his arm. -ASOS, Arya VI
What's Next?
When the Hound begins to follow them, some members want him dead but Thoros states that there must be some purpose left for Sandor.
Lord Beric shook his head. "Clegane won his life beneath the hollow hill. I will not rob him of it."and I seem to think that similar to the show, the next step in Sandor's plotline (after Brother Ray (show) and Elder Brother (book series) is another encounter with the Brotherhood without Banners.
"My lord is wise," Thoros told the others. "Brothers, a trial by battle is a holy thing. You heard me ask R'hllor to take a hand, and you saw his fiery finger snap Lord Beric's sword, just as he was about to make an end of it. The Lord of Light is not yet done with Joffrey's Hound, it would seem." -ASOS, Arya VII
- The Brotherhood is likely using his helm to lure others into traps as we could potentially see with Lyle Crakehall. If interested: The (Strong)Boar & the "Hound" and:
"Where is she?"
"A day's ride. I can take you to her, ser … but you will need to come alone. Elsewise, the Hound will kill her." -ADWD, Jaime I
- The Elder brother was the last person to see the Sandor alive as he tells Brienne (they also have his horse). After the Red Wedding, Lady Stoneheart and the BwB were hot on Arya/The Hound's trail before losing them (they find get his helm from Rorge). It is current unknown if Brienne has given this information to the Brotherhood/LSH or not but it definitely ties together the plotline. If interested: Arya Stark: The Key to Jaime/Brienne & Lady Stoneheart
Doesn't really deserve its own section, but I thought this matched up really well:
The septons preach about the seven hells. What do they know? Only a man who's been burned knows what hell is truly like. -AGOT, Sansa IIand:
Lem grabbed her wrist and twisted, wrenching the dagger away. She kicked at him, but he would not give it back. "You go to hell, Hound," she screamed at Sandor Clegane in helpless empty-handed rage. "You just go to hell!"Random Thoughts
"He has," said a voice scarce stronger than a whisper. -ASOS, Arya VI
- With the identity of "The Hound" shifting from Sandor to Rorge and then Lem, it has created a Legacy Character
- The Hound wanted to sell Arya to Lysa but stopped due to weathebeasts/mountain clans. I am only half joking when I say maybe he would have changed his mind if he knew how much the Burned Men respected fire mutilation. If interested: The Vale Mountain Clans in TWoW
- While not "confirmed" the novice gravedigger on the Quiet Isle is likely Sandor. He is lame. That said the Elder Brother and Thoros are both noted "healers". We have also seen lame characters fight via horseback (ex: The Hedge Knight) although I am not sure this is necessary for his character arc.
TLDR: It is no secret that GRRM has been building up Sandor Clegane (formerly the Hound) and fire from the beginning. With him surviving his fight with a flaming sword (not wildfire) there is some potential "purpose" left for his life (Arya wouldn't end it for him either).
2024.05.10 21:59 TKWander Pineward Reviews
Hi everyone! The other day when I was sharing all the green scents I had, and my reviews of them, I realized I had never done a full review of all the Pineward scents I've gotten, and my review of the house as a whole, so far...
My rating system: 1/5 - I actively don't like this scent/it makes me sick 2/5 - ehh, I don't really like it very much/it doesn't smell like a perfume at all 3/5 - meh, it's okay. It'll be ok layered with something else, or someone else may like it, it's just not for me. 4/5 - I do like it, it's just got something small missing from making it perfect, ie: I don't like the dry down, or it fades too fast, or it's just missing 1 note or 2 5/5 - I absolutely adore this scent. Any more and I would want to swim in it lol
__________________________________________________________________
Overall Review of the House so far:
I've tried 19 scents from them so far. Most of any other house. Mainly cause they have a super affordable sample option (1.8ml/$6) and they gifted me so many with my first order. I bought 13 and they gifted me 6 additional scents.
This is The Most atmospheric scent house I've found yet. Each scent transports you to a different location and tells a story.
Definitely a house to let settle for a while, though. At first I didn't think I liked many of them. After 6 months, I like most all of them. I just end up using a lot of them for mixers. Though, a surprisingly high amount turned out to be standalone scents for me!
They are a bit more of a unisex/masc perfume/cologne house. But, I actually like unisex complex scents, cause I like to layer them underneath sweeter, more one-note scents that I find.
Turn Around Time was actually very fast compared to the other houses (ordered 11/24 of last year, the order was sent out 11/28, and I don't remember exactly when I got it in, but it wasn't a very long time after that. I was actually surprised at the fast TOT, especially because they included in their thank you note an apology for being so late! I was like, huh? Ya'll are super fast actually! (especially compared to houses like Fantome, which I love, but take FOREVER) And they included 6 freebies in there as well, which was phenomenal!
Just be forewarned, some of these scents do stain!! So I wouldn't necessarily spray on clothing.
__________________________________________________________________
Apple Tabac 5/5
Notes: fresh red apple, tobacco, fir balsam, rum resin, dried fruits.
First impression: I absolutely love this scent and it is a sweet unisex standalone for me. This scent is Super well balanced. It is a pop of pure red apple juice right in your face, like you're in the apple barn, drinking fresh cider. You smell tobacco drying from the rafters, the fir trees outside, the rum resin, the dried fruits, everything. It all balances Super nicely, but you can still pick out every single note. I absolutely love this and will probably be a Fall Staple for me (or whenever I want to evoke that fall feeling in my chest lol. It's May, but in smelling it, I totally felt the fall chill lol)
Dry down: still smells phenomenal. You don't really lose any of the notes, even the apple, which is rare for me
**I really like layering this over Ponderosa (listed below)*
Boreal 4/5
pine needles, mint, cedar, resins, moss.
Frigid forest of the northern wilderness. Chilly mint gives way to a soft bed of creamy cedar, pine, and moss.
First Reaction out of the bottle: If you like Mint, this one's for you. It is Straight Mint. The cedar pine and moss were almost non existent props to the Very strong Mint, first out the bottle wet. Me personally, I was hoping for more of a Hint of mint overlaying a stronger scent of cedar and pine and moss, but the opposite is truer with this one. You do get an underlayer of cedar on the drydown, but the majority is full on mint.
After months of letting it sit, I came back to it and it is Much more balanced. Much more of a winter vibes forest scent I could get behind. Essentially she's the Winter Witch. A very Minty unisex woods scent
The long Dry down: dries down to a faint crisp woods scent. Still very pleasant to wear
Borealis 2/5 Notes: snowdrifts, peppermint, camphor, black tea, black elder, valerian root, ocean spume, fir balsam, orris root, pine needles, incense, sandalwood, Irish ambergris, cedarmoss, patchouli, deer musk (botanic accord), ashes.
First Reaction: I REALLY did not like this one. It was a freebie given (which they were amazing to include so many freebies), but this one, to me had a very stringent vibe with an underlayer of almost urine smell. I don't get very much of the pine or any of the snowdrifts or peppermint. But it does have a very 'black apothecary' vibe to the smell. Like it's the smell of an old trappegatherer's cabin in the woods. A witch in the woods that you go to, to trade with when you're desperate. If you like musk and dark foresty herbs and dirt, then this one is for you. It's like the dark chaotic marshlands sister witch to Boreal
This is the poster child for letting a scent rest lol.
Dry down: It Definitely softens on the drydown, but there's still that weird note in there, for me, that makes it not so pleasant as its sister Boreal
Also, to note about this scent, the first listed notes are snowdrifts and peppermint, but I do NOT get those notes at all. It's very much more 'Marshland forests by the sea maybe in winter...when winter is year round lol like Alaska....which makes sense with the name now that I think of it lol
Steading 4/5
Notes: tobacco, hay, beeswax, barley, dried needles, poplar, hops, maple, and wisps of peat smoke. A dense wheaty tobacco perfume with dried fir needles and honeyed maple sweetness.
First Reaction: If you like fresh natural straight out the tree, maple syrup, then this is the scent for you! I do definitely get the honey and maple, that is FOR SURE. At first straight out the bottle, I didn't think I liked this scent. It was a Strong Maple front.
BUT, after letting it settle, I tried it again, and it is now strangely becoming one of my fast favorites! The maple has mellowed out a bit and now I almost smell straight honey. The longer I smell it, the more I feel like I've been taking a autumn drive and stopped in at one of those side orchards that are selling homemade honey and maple syrup and you take a tasting tour. Personally, though, I'll still probably layer it onto something a bit more foresty/woodsy/cedar smelling to even out that super strong sweet maple. Cause on the Drydown it still completely smells like Maple honey. It's a really good honey scent though. A lot of honey's come off strangely urine-y on me. This one doesn't. It's like a true maple honey. Really nice. Almost nostalgic when it dries down
Eldritch 3.5/5 (I'll use it as a mixer, but not on it's own. It's a bit much on its own lol)
Notes: Leather, Myrrh, patchouli, fir, oolong tea, opoponax, smoke, pine needles, oakmoss.
Lair of ancient eldritch abominations, a resinous and dark perfume for the bold and unafraid.
this Fall 2023 Version included additional tea & moss
This was a Curiosity's sake purchase when I saw this on a list of 'If you want to smell like a witch' suggestions (very accurate for this to be on that list). First on my skin I definitely get the sharp leather notes and I think the myrrh. It is definitely a challenging scent and more of a unisex or masculine scent, but me as a witchy woman, I love it. I think I'm totally getting the Opoponax (resin that smells like oak honey powder and leather), the smoke and the fir. First out of the gate I feel like it makes me smell like a dark and mysterious witchy apothecary owner during the 1700s in a port town, with gunpowder and fire tinging the air. And you're making poisons and special magical bullets. And I think I do really like the addition of tea and moss into the scent, otherwise, I think it'd be more of a pirate-y unisex/masc scent. With the Leather and Myrrh and oolong tea and smoke, it has a bit of a 'Buccanneepirate' vibe to it. But with the Patchouli and oak moss and pine needles, it gives witchy and slightly southern vibes, which leads my head to go Bayou pirate/witch lol. Right after I got it, though, it was definitely a challenging scent. But, trust me, let it sit, it will get so much better with time.
First dry down it softens beautifully, so if you think it's too strong and overpowering at first, don't worry. It'll mellow
Long dry down, it does get a bit musty and stale herbally after a bit. But, it is Just perfect if you want a remnant scent of 'I just walked through a witchy Apothecary in Savannah'
Just keep in mind, right out the bottle, it is a very challenging scent. Make sure to let it rest a bit, and then try it on your skin, too, before judging.
*note: if you're not an herbally/witchy person, this may be more of a masculine scent pull. I could totally see giving this scent to a guy friend/family member, if you get it and it's not for you. For me personally, though, I love it as a dark wet witchy base layer under something super fruity (like SF&F's Lilac & Gooseberries, or Lorelai from Fantome), to give me the perfect fruity darkly complex witchy scents.
Sadly, the top notes are a fast faders on me (but I think it may just be that my skin gobbles scents ). After about 2 hours it had faded to a Very soft dried herbs, leather, and smoke. It really does perfectly pair w/ Strange Fire & Fumery's Lilac & Gooseberries, though, to give a fruity floral witch vibe. That soft dried herbs, leather, and smoke scent, though lasted a Very long time, till the end of the day pretty much
Ponderosa 5/5
Notes: Ponderosa resin, ponderosa needles, cedar, vanilla, strawberry, cinnamon, butterscotch, beeswax, raisin cookies
First Impressions: definitely another atmospheric scent. I get sweet resins and wood, like I'm in a wood barn or wood lodge. It's a very sweet woodsy scent. Think a wood lodge up in Gatlinburg, where you can get all you can eat pancakes and sweet pastries all day with fresh syrups. I don't get too much strawberry in there, but almost like you can smell someone's strawberry pancakes with maple syrup in this wood lodge.
I feel like this would be a WONDERFUL deepening layer underneath a strawberry vanilla scent that seems too one-note, to really give a full bodied complex scent. But, quite honestly, It's actually a fine stand alone scent for me, too
Dry down: It still smells really great! More into the wood/resin smell with a touch of butterscotch and vanilla, rather than super gourmand-y. But, the drydown is still a super pleasant scent I don't mind wearing
**I actually really like layering this under Apple Tabac**
Hayloft 4/5
Notes: hay, lavender honey, crocus, sweet vernal grass, bison grass, toasted almond, hazelnut, oats, dusty wheat.
Another atmospheric barn scent, but more a springtime barn: fresh sweet grasses and flowers hanging from the rafters, the warm sweet hot cross buns in your basket from breakfast. You're having breakfast in the loft, overlooking your garden. I do wish there was a bit 'more(?)' to this scent though? Like either bring in some more vanilla notes to make it a true gourmand OR bring in more lavender and herbs to make it a more green scent. I think though, because of that, that makes this a perfect layering scent. So, depending on how I want to smell that day, I can layer this under a more gourmand scent. Or, I can layer it under a more floral or green scent
though, after smelling it again after the drydown....nah, it balances out super nicely to a light spring wood barn scent. I don't think you even need to mix it with something. You can wear it on its own. I'll bring it up to a 4.5/5 rating-wise
White Fir 5/5
Notes: orange, ginger, white fir, clove, anise, pine, musk, vetiver, oakmoss
The PERFECT wintery citrus scent. Super crisp. You definitely get the citrus and ginger and white fir. The only more perfect addition would be to maybe layer it with a patchouli or deeper woodsy/cedar scent, I think, to give it a bit more depth and less 'Winter Cleaning day' vibe.
*For a sweeter vibe, though, I layer this under Kinmokusei from Fantome, and it gives me pretty much a perfect witchy lemon citrus green herbal scent*
Clemenpine 1.5/5
Notes: Clementine, Blood Orange, Maritime Pine, Night-Blooming Jasmine, Saffron Flower, Rough Suede, Passion Fruit, White Lotus, Fir Balsam, Tobacco Leaf, Cedar Planks, Leather, Sandalwood, Pacific Ambergris.
I really wish I had had the chance to let this one settle for a few months like the others, but sadly it got dropped onto my cement floor and shattered, so I only had my first impressions of it, which was that it smelled like PURE cleaning fluid. Which really sucks, cause I love orange and citrusy scents and was very hopeful for this one. I may eventually order a sample again, just to give it a second shot, since all the rest of these benefited so much from letting them sit and rest
Meadowmoss 1.5/5
Oakmoss, Alpine Sandwort, Wild grass, Green Wheat, Orange Blossom, Fir Balsam, Tomato Leaf, Azure Bluet, Mountain Wildflowers
First impressions: This one is one of those scents I wouldn't actually wear. BUT, one I would use on like my dryer balls or as a room spray on furniture in spring. It really is like you're standing out in an open field in the Swiss alps singing, the Hills are Alive, next to a wayward nun. If that's what you'd like to smell like? This one is for you! It just screamed 'linen sheet' to me, rather than perfume. Also, I unfortunately have an autoimmune allergy to nightshades and I didn't realize this had Tomato leaf in it :/
So, it's one I'm gifting to my mom
Ivymoss 3.5/5
Notes: Climbing Ivy, Green Tea, Spearmint, Lime Rind, Lemon Verbena, Waterlily, Emerald Cypress, Mugo Pine, Cedarwood, Oakmoss, Treemoss, Cedarmoss.
Another one that DEFINITELY needs rest before you judge. At first it was purely going to be another dryer ball scent. But after Months of letting it rest (like legit half a year), I actually think I like the scent enough to maybe wear it! (at least as an undertone, if not as a standalone). It's a very Bright Green early Springtime vibes scent. Fresh, without smelling overtly like cleaning fluid or laundry detergent. It's truly like walking through a forest in very early spring, with the air still crisp, but new plants starting to grow.
It's not one I would wear a Lot, I don't think....but maybe in early spring layered under an apple-y scent. Or maybe as an undertone layer with something like a honeysuckle scent, to balance it out for me.
Greymist 5/5
Notes: Noble Fir, Scotch Pine, Expressed Citron, Blond Tobacco, Botanical Musk, Vetiver.
Another one that Really needs to rest, before you try, cause I'm pretty sure it was on the list of (I REALLY don't like) when I first scented these, but now months after, this one's gonna be one of my favorite winter scents, I think. It legit smells like Christmas time. The fir and pine Really stands out, and you get that little bit of tobacco in there too, almost like you're hugging Santa and he smokes a pipe lol.
Acadian 3.5/5
Sweet Yuzu, Bergamot, Juniper Berry, Ivy, Eucalyptus, Waterlily, Goldenrod, Heliotrope, Seaweed, Cedar, Oakmoss
This scent reminds me of trips to the Lost sea or Rock city. Smelling the damp mossy forests and wet mountain stone. That smell of caves found along hikes in damp foggy weather. I kinda flip between loving this and not so loving this one. I can't really pick out any of the individual notes at all, which is sad, cause I do like a lot of those individual scents. But, it is a really nice general unisex/masculine scent
A little goes a Very long way, though. It's got a very lengthy throw. I like pairing a DOT of it underneath one of my sweeter fruity or floral scents. If I use too much, there's a note in there that's a bit wonky and it goes a bit powdery and strong and gives me a headache. And I don't like this one as much on the drydown. Powder notes tend to last the longest on me (and they're the worst for me) and it gets very strong and weirdly powdery/perfumey on the drydown, sadly, which is why I put it at a 3.5 for me. It may be great for someone else though. My brother says it smells like a generic male cologne lol
Akero 5/5
Notes: green apple, benzoin, patchouli, sandalwood, cedar.
The first bit of a freshly picked green apple. When I smell this, it transports me to a green apple orchard, with the apples just getting ripe. It's definitely got a Green earthy undertone, but the bright apple evens it out a bunch. I really love this, even alone, or layered with a sweeter fruit scent, like Kinmousekai from fantome. I do wish the Cedasandalwood stood out a bit more, though. I may have to try putting a drop of this onto an actual cedar chip. See how it smells
Caravansary 5/5 freebie
Notes: fir balsam, deer musk (botanic accord), vanilla, black tea, lavender, blue spruce, blue chamomile, treemoss, incense, mulched pinecone, campfire smoke.
First impressions: Like Olle+Max's Summer Witch is like a summer roadtrip for me, hitting up all the hippy/witchy side shops and thrift shops along the way….This is the winter version. Again a super atmospheric scent, it instantly transports me to my car in winter, riding along the backroads, smelling the fresh fir and pine trees, the smell of camp smoke in the distance and the herbs I smoke cleansed the car with before the trip, along with the hot tea I have in my traveler mug for the journey ahead. It's definitely unisex, but honestly, I could probably wear this in winter by itself. Or, I'll use it as a layering element, to bring a bit of smoke/incense/winter travel vibes to a blend
Gingerbread 5/5 freebie
Notes: ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, wheat absolute, butter co2, molasses distillate, brown sugar, black walnut, milk, cream, vanilla.
This one was a freebie thrown in (They included a Ton of freebies, which was so phenomenal!)
First impressions, another very well balanced set for late fall/winter. It smells like a fresh gingerbread snap (those hard old school ginger cookies), you can smell the cinnamon and cloves so much that it almost comes off as fresh cut wood which is definitely a complimentary vibe for this scent. Though, that may also be the wheat absolute and black walnut coming out, too. The sharpness from the ginger is mellowed out by the milk and cream and brown sugar and molasses. Another scent that blends very well, but you can still pick out all the individual notes and they tell a story. It's really cool how this house does that!
Christmas Wine Freebie 3.5/5
Notes: cranberry, plum, blood orange, cloves, nutmeg, fir balsam
It's definitely got the vibe of mulled Christmas wine. I'm kind of meh about it, though? There's a note in there I'm not fond of (I think the nutmeg) and I wish there was a bit of a crisp forest underlayer in there and maybe a bit more fruit, less mulled wine spices. BUT, this does make for a perfect mulled wine top note mixer on one of my more winter woods scents, like Grey Mist and Caravansary…and then maybe getting a winter berry scent to layer over top everything. This is a great mid layer scent for me.
Glühwein Pinewardperfume Freebie 5/5
Notes: Cranberry, champaca, cherry compote, rasberry, fir balsam, chocolate, davana attar, oakmoss, frankincense
Quite honestly everything I want Christmas Wine to be. In the description it says it was actually built on a base of the christmas wine scent, but with additional festive nuance, and this 2023 version is less sweet with more cocoa and champaca. This is actually pretty sweet, so I can't imagine what it was before. It's like sweet winter berries, and you can pretty distinctly scent the fir and frankincense and oakmoss. So, basically, all my notes from Christmas wine and how to improve it…they did it in this lol, it is Gluhwein. Just get this one lol
Then last but not least, they also included another freebie that isn't listed in their scent collection for sale. It's a Mint Cocoa. Which, honestly is Another poster child for letting rest lol. At first it was a bit chemically and I didn't like it at all. Now, it fluctuates from being a photorealistic mint chocolate….to weirdly smelling like my dad's alcoholic egg nogg that he loves every year at after Thanksgiving-New Years. I think it'll be a great mixer or even standalone this winter for me. Very nostalgic vibes.
_______________________________________________________________
So, I hope anyone looking for Pineward reviews! They're a really cool house, so I hope they keep growing!
submitted by TKWander to Indiemakeupandmore [link] [comments]
My rating system: 1/5 - I actively don't like this scent/it makes me sick 2/5 - ehh, I don't really like it very much/it doesn't smell like a perfume at all 3/5 - meh, it's okay. It'll be ok layered with something else, or someone else may like it, it's just not for me. 4/5 - I do like it, it's just got something small missing from making it perfect, ie: I don't like the dry down, or it fades too fast, or it's just missing 1 note or 2 5/5 - I absolutely adore this scent. Any more and I would want to swim in it lol
__________________________________________________________________
Overall Review of the House so far:
I've tried 19 scents from them so far. Most of any other house. Mainly cause they have a super affordable sample option (1.8ml/$6) and they gifted me so many with my first order. I bought 13 and they gifted me 6 additional scents.
This is The Most atmospheric scent house I've found yet. Each scent transports you to a different location and tells a story.
Definitely a house to let settle for a while, though. At first I didn't think I liked many of them. After 6 months, I like most all of them. I just end up using a lot of them for mixers. Though, a surprisingly high amount turned out to be standalone scents for me!
They are a bit more of a unisex/masc perfume/cologne house. But, I actually like unisex complex scents, cause I like to layer them underneath sweeter, more one-note scents that I find.
Turn Around Time was actually very fast compared to the other houses (ordered 11/24 of last year, the order was sent out 11/28, and I don't remember exactly when I got it in, but it wasn't a very long time after that. I was actually surprised at the fast TOT, especially because they included in their thank you note an apology for being so late! I was like, huh? Ya'll are super fast actually! (especially compared to houses like Fantome, which I love, but take FOREVER) And they included 6 freebies in there as well, which was phenomenal!
Just be forewarned, some of these scents do stain!! So I wouldn't necessarily spray on clothing.
__________________________________________________________________
Apple Tabac 5/5
Notes: fresh red apple, tobacco, fir balsam, rum resin, dried fruits.
First impression: I absolutely love this scent and it is a sweet unisex standalone for me. This scent is Super well balanced. It is a pop of pure red apple juice right in your face, like you're in the apple barn, drinking fresh cider. You smell tobacco drying from the rafters, the fir trees outside, the rum resin, the dried fruits, everything. It all balances Super nicely, but you can still pick out every single note. I absolutely love this and will probably be a Fall Staple for me (or whenever I want to evoke that fall feeling in my chest lol. It's May, but in smelling it, I totally felt the fall chill lol)
Dry down: still smells phenomenal. You don't really lose any of the notes, even the apple, which is rare for me
**I really like layering this over Ponderosa (listed below)*
Boreal 4/5
pine needles, mint, cedar, resins, moss.
Frigid forest of the northern wilderness. Chilly mint gives way to a soft bed of creamy cedar, pine, and moss.
First Reaction out of the bottle: If you like Mint, this one's for you. It is Straight Mint. The cedar pine and moss were almost non existent props to the Very strong Mint, first out the bottle wet. Me personally, I was hoping for more of a Hint of mint overlaying a stronger scent of cedar and pine and moss, but the opposite is truer with this one. You do get an underlayer of cedar on the drydown, but the majority is full on mint.
After months of letting it sit, I came back to it and it is Much more balanced. Much more of a winter vibes forest scent I could get behind. Essentially she's the Winter Witch. A very Minty unisex woods scent
The long Dry down: dries down to a faint crisp woods scent. Still very pleasant to wear
Borealis 2/5 Notes: snowdrifts, peppermint, camphor, black tea, black elder, valerian root, ocean spume, fir balsam, orris root, pine needles, incense, sandalwood, Irish ambergris, cedarmoss, patchouli, deer musk (botanic accord), ashes.
First Reaction: I REALLY did not like this one. It was a freebie given (which they were amazing to include so many freebies), but this one, to me had a very stringent vibe with an underlayer of almost urine smell. I don't get very much of the pine or any of the snowdrifts or peppermint. But it does have a very 'black apothecary' vibe to the smell. Like it's the smell of an old trappegatherer's cabin in the woods. A witch in the woods that you go to, to trade with when you're desperate. If you like musk and dark foresty herbs and dirt, then this one is for you. It's like the dark chaotic marshlands sister witch to Boreal
This is the poster child for letting a scent rest lol.
Dry down: It Definitely softens on the drydown, but there's still that weird note in there, for me, that makes it not so pleasant as its sister Boreal
Also, to note about this scent, the first listed notes are snowdrifts and peppermint, but I do NOT get those notes at all. It's very much more 'Marshland forests by the sea maybe in winter...when winter is year round lol like Alaska....which makes sense with the name now that I think of it lol
Steading 4/5
Notes: tobacco, hay, beeswax, barley, dried needles, poplar, hops, maple, and wisps of peat smoke. A dense wheaty tobacco perfume with dried fir needles and honeyed maple sweetness.
First Reaction: If you like fresh natural straight out the tree, maple syrup, then this is the scent for you! I do definitely get the honey and maple, that is FOR SURE. At first straight out the bottle, I didn't think I liked this scent. It was a Strong Maple front.
BUT, after letting it settle, I tried it again, and it is now strangely becoming one of my fast favorites! The maple has mellowed out a bit and now I almost smell straight honey. The longer I smell it, the more I feel like I've been taking a autumn drive and stopped in at one of those side orchards that are selling homemade honey and maple syrup and you take a tasting tour. Personally, though, I'll still probably layer it onto something a bit more foresty/woodsy/cedar smelling to even out that super strong sweet maple. Cause on the Drydown it still completely smells like Maple honey. It's a really good honey scent though. A lot of honey's come off strangely urine-y on me. This one doesn't. It's like a true maple honey. Really nice. Almost nostalgic when it dries down
Eldritch 3.5/5 (I'll use it as a mixer, but not on it's own. It's a bit much on its own lol)
Notes: Leather, Myrrh, patchouli, fir, oolong tea, opoponax, smoke, pine needles, oakmoss.
Lair of ancient eldritch abominations, a resinous and dark perfume for the bold and unafraid.
this Fall 2023 Version included additional tea & moss
This was a Curiosity's sake purchase when I saw this on a list of 'If you want to smell like a witch' suggestions (very accurate for this to be on that list). First on my skin I definitely get the sharp leather notes and I think the myrrh. It is definitely a challenging scent and more of a unisex or masculine scent, but me as a witchy woman, I love it. I think I'm totally getting the Opoponax (resin that smells like oak honey powder and leather), the smoke and the fir. First out of the gate I feel like it makes me smell like a dark and mysterious witchy apothecary owner during the 1700s in a port town, with gunpowder and fire tinging the air. And you're making poisons and special magical bullets. And I think I do really like the addition of tea and moss into the scent, otherwise, I think it'd be more of a pirate-y unisex/masc scent. With the Leather and Myrrh and oolong tea and smoke, it has a bit of a 'Buccanneepirate' vibe to it. But with the Patchouli and oak moss and pine needles, it gives witchy and slightly southern vibes, which leads my head to go Bayou pirate/witch lol. Right after I got it, though, it was definitely a challenging scent. But, trust me, let it sit, it will get so much better with time.
First dry down it softens beautifully, so if you think it's too strong and overpowering at first, don't worry. It'll mellow
Long dry down, it does get a bit musty and stale herbally after a bit. But, it is Just perfect if you want a remnant scent of 'I just walked through a witchy Apothecary in Savannah'
Just keep in mind, right out the bottle, it is a very challenging scent. Make sure to let it rest a bit, and then try it on your skin, too, before judging.
*note: if you're not an herbally/witchy person, this may be more of a masculine scent pull. I could totally see giving this scent to a guy friend/family member, if you get it and it's not for you. For me personally, though, I love it as a dark wet witchy base layer under something super fruity (like SF&F's Lilac & Gooseberries, or Lorelai from Fantome), to give me the perfect fruity darkly complex witchy scents.
Sadly, the top notes are a fast faders on me (but I think it may just be that my skin gobbles scents ). After about 2 hours it had faded to a Very soft dried herbs, leather, and smoke. It really does perfectly pair w/ Strange Fire & Fumery's Lilac & Gooseberries, though, to give a fruity floral witch vibe. That soft dried herbs, leather, and smoke scent, though lasted a Very long time, till the end of the day pretty much
Ponderosa 5/5
Notes: Ponderosa resin, ponderosa needles, cedar, vanilla, strawberry, cinnamon, butterscotch, beeswax, raisin cookies
First Impressions: definitely another atmospheric scent. I get sweet resins and wood, like I'm in a wood barn or wood lodge. It's a very sweet woodsy scent. Think a wood lodge up in Gatlinburg, where you can get all you can eat pancakes and sweet pastries all day with fresh syrups. I don't get too much strawberry in there, but almost like you can smell someone's strawberry pancakes with maple syrup in this wood lodge.
I feel like this would be a WONDERFUL deepening layer underneath a strawberry vanilla scent that seems too one-note, to really give a full bodied complex scent. But, quite honestly, It's actually a fine stand alone scent for me, too
Dry down: It still smells really great! More into the wood/resin smell with a touch of butterscotch and vanilla, rather than super gourmand-y. But, the drydown is still a super pleasant scent I don't mind wearing
**I actually really like layering this under Apple Tabac**
Hayloft 4/5
Notes: hay, lavender honey, crocus, sweet vernal grass, bison grass, toasted almond, hazelnut, oats, dusty wheat.
Another atmospheric barn scent, but more a springtime barn: fresh sweet grasses and flowers hanging from the rafters, the warm sweet hot cross buns in your basket from breakfast. You're having breakfast in the loft, overlooking your garden. I do wish there was a bit 'more(?)' to this scent though? Like either bring in some more vanilla notes to make it a true gourmand OR bring in more lavender and herbs to make it a more green scent. I think though, because of that, that makes this a perfect layering scent. So, depending on how I want to smell that day, I can layer this under a more gourmand scent. Or, I can layer it under a more floral or green scent
though, after smelling it again after the drydown....nah, it balances out super nicely to a light spring wood barn scent. I don't think you even need to mix it with something. You can wear it on its own. I'll bring it up to a 4.5/5 rating-wise
White Fir 5/5
Notes: orange, ginger, white fir, clove, anise, pine, musk, vetiver, oakmoss
The PERFECT wintery citrus scent. Super crisp. You definitely get the citrus and ginger and white fir. The only more perfect addition would be to maybe layer it with a patchouli or deeper woodsy/cedar scent, I think, to give it a bit more depth and less 'Winter Cleaning day' vibe.
*For a sweeter vibe, though, I layer this under Kinmokusei from Fantome, and it gives me pretty much a perfect witchy lemon citrus green herbal scent*
Clemenpine 1.5/5
Notes: Clementine, Blood Orange, Maritime Pine, Night-Blooming Jasmine, Saffron Flower, Rough Suede, Passion Fruit, White Lotus, Fir Balsam, Tobacco Leaf, Cedar Planks, Leather, Sandalwood, Pacific Ambergris.
I really wish I had had the chance to let this one settle for a few months like the others, but sadly it got dropped onto my cement floor and shattered, so I only had my first impressions of it, which was that it smelled like PURE cleaning fluid. Which really sucks, cause I love orange and citrusy scents and was very hopeful for this one. I may eventually order a sample again, just to give it a second shot, since all the rest of these benefited so much from letting them sit and rest
Meadowmoss 1.5/5
Oakmoss, Alpine Sandwort, Wild grass, Green Wheat, Orange Blossom, Fir Balsam, Tomato Leaf, Azure Bluet, Mountain Wildflowers
First impressions: This one is one of those scents I wouldn't actually wear. BUT, one I would use on like my dryer balls or as a room spray on furniture in spring. It really is like you're standing out in an open field in the Swiss alps singing, the Hills are Alive, next to a wayward nun. If that's what you'd like to smell like? This one is for you! It just screamed 'linen sheet' to me, rather than perfume. Also, I unfortunately have an autoimmune allergy to nightshades and I didn't realize this had Tomato leaf in it :/
So, it's one I'm gifting to my mom
Ivymoss 3.5/5
Notes: Climbing Ivy, Green Tea, Spearmint, Lime Rind, Lemon Verbena, Waterlily, Emerald Cypress, Mugo Pine, Cedarwood, Oakmoss, Treemoss, Cedarmoss.
Another one that DEFINITELY needs rest before you judge. At first it was purely going to be another dryer ball scent. But after Months of letting it rest (like legit half a year), I actually think I like the scent enough to maybe wear it! (at least as an undertone, if not as a standalone). It's a very Bright Green early Springtime vibes scent. Fresh, without smelling overtly like cleaning fluid or laundry detergent. It's truly like walking through a forest in very early spring, with the air still crisp, but new plants starting to grow.
It's not one I would wear a Lot, I don't think....but maybe in early spring layered under an apple-y scent. Or maybe as an undertone layer with something like a honeysuckle scent, to balance it out for me.
Greymist 5/5
Notes: Noble Fir, Scotch Pine, Expressed Citron, Blond Tobacco, Botanical Musk, Vetiver.
Another one that Really needs to rest, before you try, cause I'm pretty sure it was on the list of (I REALLY don't like) when I first scented these, but now months after, this one's gonna be one of my favorite winter scents, I think. It legit smells like Christmas time. The fir and pine Really stands out, and you get that little bit of tobacco in there too, almost like you're hugging Santa and he smokes a pipe lol.
Acadian 3.5/5
Sweet Yuzu, Bergamot, Juniper Berry, Ivy, Eucalyptus, Waterlily, Goldenrod, Heliotrope, Seaweed, Cedar, Oakmoss
This scent reminds me of trips to the Lost sea or Rock city. Smelling the damp mossy forests and wet mountain stone. That smell of caves found along hikes in damp foggy weather. I kinda flip between loving this and not so loving this one. I can't really pick out any of the individual notes at all, which is sad, cause I do like a lot of those individual scents. But, it is a really nice general unisex/masculine scent
A little goes a Very long way, though. It's got a very lengthy throw. I like pairing a DOT of it underneath one of my sweeter fruity or floral scents. If I use too much, there's a note in there that's a bit wonky and it goes a bit powdery and strong and gives me a headache. And I don't like this one as much on the drydown. Powder notes tend to last the longest on me (and they're the worst for me) and it gets very strong and weirdly powdery/perfumey on the drydown, sadly, which is why I put it at a 3.5 for me. It may be great for someone else though. My brother says it smells like a generic male cologne lol
Akero 5/5
Notes: green apple, benzoin, patchouli, sandalwood, cedar.
The first bit of a freshly picked green apple. When I smell this, it transports me to a green apple orchard, with the apples just getting ripe. It's definitely got a Green earthy undertone, but the bright apple evens it out a bunch. I really love this, even alone, or layered with a sweeter fruit scent, like Kinmousekai from fantome. I do wish the Cedasandalwood stood out a bit more, though. I may have to try putting a drop of this onto an actual cedar chip. See how it smells
Caravansary 5/5 freebie
Notes: fir balsam, deer musk (botanic accord), vanilla, black tea, lavender, blue spruce, blue chamomile, treemoss, incense, mulched pinecone, campfire smoke.
First impressions: Like Olle+Max's Summer Witch is like a summer roadtrip for me, hitting up all the hippy/witchy side shops and thrift shops along the way….This is the winter version. Again a super atmospheric scent, it instantly transports me to my car in winter, riding along the backroads, smelling the fresh fir and pine trees, the smell of camp smoke in the distance and the herbs I smoke cleansed the car with before the trip, along with the hot tea I have in my traveler mug for the journey ahead. It's definitely unisex, but honestly, I could probably wear this in winter by itself. Or, I'll use it as a layering element, to bring a bit of smoke/incense/winter travel vibes to a blend
Gingerbread 5/5 freebie
Notes: ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, wheat absolute, butter co2, molasses distillate, brown sugar, black walnut, milk, cream, vanilla.
This one was a freebie thrown in (They included a Ton of freebies, which was so phenomenal!)
First impressions, another very well balanced set for late fall/winter. It smells like a fresh gingerbread snap (those hard old school ginger cookies), you can smell the cinnamon and cloves so much that it almost comes off as fresh cut wood which is definitely a complimentary vibe for this scent. Though, that may also be the wheat absolute and black walnut coming out, too. The sharpness from the ginger is mellowed out by the milk and cream and brown sugar and molasses. Another scent that blends very well, but you can still pick out all the individual notes and they tell a story. It's really cool how this house does that!
Christmas Wine Freebie 3.5/5
Notes: cranberry, plum, blood orange, cloves, nutmeg, fir balsam
It's definitely got the vibe of mulled Christmas wine. I'm kind of meh about it, though? There's a note in there I'm not fond of (I think the nutmeg) and I wish there was a bit of a crisp forest underlayer in there and maybe a bit more fruit, less mulled wine spices. BUT, this does make for a perfect mulled wine top note mixer on one of my more winter woods scents, like Grey Mist and Caravansary…and then maybe getting a winter berry scent to layer over top everything. This is a great mid layer scent for me.
Glühwein Pinewardperfume Freebie 5/5
Notes: Cranberry, champaca, cherry compote, rasberry, fir balsam, chocolate, davana attar, oakmoss, frankincense
Quite honestly everything I want Christmas Wine to be. In the description it says it was actually built on a base of the christmas wine scent, but with additional festive nuance, and this 2023 version is less sweet with more cocoa and champaca. This is actually pretty sweet, so I can't imagine what it was before. It's like sweet winter berries, and you can pretty distinctly scent the fir and frankincense and oakmoss. So, basically, all my notes from Christmas wine and how to improve it…they did it in this lol, it is Gluhwein. Just get this one lol
Then last but not least, they also included another freebie that isn't listed in their scent collection for sale. It's a Mint Cocoa. Which, honestly is Another poster child for letting rest lol. At first it was a bit chemically and I didn't like it at all. Now, it fluctuates from being a photorealistic mint chocolate….to weirdly smelling like my dad's alcoholic egg nogg that he loves every year at after Thanksgiving-New Years. I think it'll be a great mixer or even standalone this winter for me. Very nostalgic vibes.
_______________________________________________________________
So, I hope anyone looking for Pineward reviews! They're a really cool house, so I hope they keep growing!
2024.05.01 06:49 megor Ladder for loft?
I just had my 12x16 barn shed built and the loft is 9 feet high. Looking for ladder recommendations, do people use folding attic style ladders?
Something like this? https://www.homedepot.com/p/Fakro-LST-Insulated-Steel-Scissor-Attic-Ladder-7-7-9-2-22-5-x-31-5-with-350-lb-Load-Capacity-66875/100672568
Also anyone setup a winch of some kind to make loading things into the loft easier?
submitted by megor to shedditors [link] [comments]
Something like this? https://www.homedepot.com/p/Fakro-LST-Insulated-Steel-Scissor-Attic-Ladder-7-7-9-2-22-5-x-31-5-with-350-lb-Load-Capacity-66875/100672568
Also anyone setup a winch of some kind to make loading things into the loft easier?
2024.04.30 23:37 I_Like_Comedy_1997 Good Stand Up Comedy this Thursday in Springdale at Black Apple Cider & Saturday in Bentonville at Bentonville Brewing Co with nationally touring comedian Dan Alten on a 34 night tour. I promise I’m funny and interesting & if you dont enjoy the show you can push me into a river.
 | submitted by I_Like_Comedy_1997 to northwestarkansas [link] [comments] |
2024.04.30 23:37 I_Like_Comedy_1997 Good Stand Up Comedy this Thursday in Springdale at Black Apple Cider & Saturday in Bentonville at Bentonville Brewing Co with nationally touring comedian Dan Alten on a 34 night tour. I promise I’m funny and interesting & if you dont enjoy the show you can push me into a river.
 | submitted by I_Like_Comedy_1997 to FayettevilleAr [link] [comments] |
2024.04.30 23:37 I_Like_Comedy_1997 Good Stand Up Comedy this Thursday in Springdale at Black Apple Cider & Saturday in Bentonville at Bentonville Brewing Co with nationally touring comedian Dan Alten on a 34 night tour. I promise I’m funny and interesting & if you dont enjoy the show you can push me into a river.
 | submitted by I_Like_Comedy_1997 to RogersArkansas [link] [comments] |
2024.04.12 19:51 CleanYogurtcloset803 No Title Yet - Chapter 1 (4787 words)- [Fantasy/Romance]
First time attempt at this. Please give honest opinions. I want to know if this makes you want to read more, if it's boring/dull, does it draw you in, etc.:
Chapter 1
****
She was still reeling from the memory.
One moment she was walking down the street and the next she awoke to screams and herself standing with corpses strewn around her. All of them had blood seeping from their eyes, ears, and noses as if their very insides had been melted and drained from their orifices. Twenty people had dropped abruptly in a concentric circle around her with her standing in the middle. They had been innocent villagers, just random passersby on their way in the village no different than her. She was left standing with nothing more than a nosebleed. However, instead of considering her a survivor of the same attack, she was cast into suspicion.
She was in a dungeon since then, scratching at the manacles around her wrists. None of this made any sense - she was an orphan and worked on a farm. The day had been no different than the others - she had just gotten done dropping off cans of cow’s milk at the village shipping silo. She was initially accused of using weapons to murder everyone and the stories got more and more far-fetched till the village elder finally suggested simply putting her in the dungeon until it was time for a trial.
The dank, dark dungeon was a level below ground and there was a tiny triangle shaped window just too high for her to peek through. The stench of old rot and rat feces permeated strongly enough to where she was sure it was in her hair. She was terrified - first of what happened, second of not knowing why it happened, and lastly of what may happen to her. Her heart was racing and thundering against her chest as she curled up against the mossy, limestone walls. There was a distant, rhythmic drip of water as if from a leaky pipe somewhere and it drove her almost as mad as her own anxieties.
She could think about nothing but the guilt from those dead faces, but also conflict because she was so certain she hadn’t done anything wrong. She was just as confused as the rest of the witnesses that saw the bodies abruptly collapse. She had known some of those people and she would never forget their sunken cheeks and bloody visages for as long as she lived.
She already heard many villagers calling for her to be executed immediately for her crimes. Several others averted their gaze in fear and prayed to their gods as she passed them to the dungeons. Some prayed for her soul for demons had claimed it. She couldn’t imagine anyone fearing her. She was 19, scrawny with unruly black hair, bronze skin, dull dark eyes and a plain, unremarkable appearance. She was Lani. Just Lani. How could anyone be afraid of her?
Lani surveyed the manacles that had to be especially tightened around her dainty arms. She was hoarse from crying and shouting her innocence, from screaming about how she was not possessed and how she didn’t kill all those people. No one listened to her. No one heard her. She sighed and hugged her knees to her chest, peering into the dark, metal bars of her cell. She had no choice but to wait for her sentencing, terrified and alone, accused of something she never did.
Lani was about to delve further into her self-destructive thoughts again when she heard footsteps approaching. She straightened up where she was seated, blinking through the darkness as the orange glow of a torch illuminated the dungeon corridor. There was just enough light to reveal the skeletal remains of the prisoner in the cell across from hers. Lani chewed on her lip, trying not to cry all over again.
“Prisoner,” The gruff voice of the guard resounded. The man was a titan, huge broad shoulders, a full beard and a malicious glint in his eye. She was sure if she was sentenced to die, he would swing the ax with a booming, maniacal laugh, “You are summoned. Get up,” He ordered, fishing out the keys to her cell and opening the door with a slow, grinding creak.
Lani shakily rose to her feet, her wrists firmly bound with the metals, “Please, I didn’t do this. I could never kill those-”
“Shut up,” He snapped, cutting her off, “Get moving,” He gestured with the torch for her to walk ahead of him. Lani’s gaze flicked down to spot the blade at his hip. She knew better than to run and hasten her own death.
The girl walked up the stone steps to the upper level of the prison. The village she lived in had been a peaceful one and it wasn’t often anyone managed to get thrown into the dungeons. Old Gibbsy was the last one to get tossed in for wandering around as a drunken fool one night in the village square. With a grimace, Lani wondered if that skeleton from earlier was the eccentric old man…
She arrived at the top of the steps where the floor opened to a wide hall with stone floors and curved, domed ceiling. She could overhear some voices already.
“-I don’t see how this needs to be escalated to the Crown,” Lani overheard the voice of Warden Violet, a severe and shrewd woman that vaguely reminded her of a venus flytrap. She strutted about through the square looking for excuses to condemn people to the dungeons or paying fines. Lani didn’t have to see her just yet to know the Warden was livid.
“This is classified business,” A masculine voice with a velvety varnish answered back, the inflection perfectly calm. It was a stark contrast to the rising temper in Warden Violet’s tone.
“Well this is positively absurd! I must insist-”
Lani turned the corner then - having been nudged forth by the guard after she started stalling. She stared wide-eyed at the two figures looking right at her - on the right was the Warden with a high-neck full-sleeved emerald dress to hug a thin, wiry frame. Her face sported a permanent grimace and an aquiline nose. Her hair was tied in a tight bun, streaks of gray weaving in with the black.
On the left was a man Lani had never seen before but could only describe him as…ethereal. He stood tall, almost unnaturally tall, with a strong jaw, high cheekbones, a flush of tan to his skin, and striking silver eyes set under pronounced black brows. His hair was perfectly styled without a single strand out of place. The way he carried himself and his posture suggested he didn’t frequent villages like hers often. Despite the way he carried himself, she doubted he was but a few years older than her.
“This is she?” The man asked without giving Lani more than a cursory glance, his gaze returning to Warden Violet.
“Yes,” The woman snapped.
“Very well,” The man said, unfazed by the Warden's clear agitation, “She will be accompanying me back to the castle.”
“And what am I supposed to tell the families of the decease-”
“Rest assured,” The man said, his baritone icily cutting through Violet’s theatrics, “They will be compensated and move on.”
Lani forgot how to breathe during this entire exchange. She was still reeling from the deaths, wondering about her fate and now he mentioned the castle? She was going to the King’s castle? Lani felt sick to her stomach. She knew what was going to happen - they were going to execute her before the masses. They would make an example out of her by parading her around the square to let everyone throw vegetables at her and then her head would roll off to thunderous applause. Her skin turned pale and clammy, and she was positive her knees were weak enough to collapse.
“Are you hard of hearing?” The male voice sternly cut through her line of thought like a hot knife through butter. Lani realized the tall man was standing right across from her, clearly having addressed her. She had to crane her neck to regard him, her mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water. He had no patience for her antics and looked back at Warden Violet.
“Remove her binds,” The man ordered.
Warden Violent looked as if someone slapped her across the face, “I beg your pardon?” She scoffed. The man stared blankly at her, clearly on his last nerve, “I will give you the key, my lord, but I would prefer if she remained bound till you exit our borders.”
The man said nothing to that, extending a hand for the key. He turned to Lani at last, “Come,” He ordered and Lani’s legs moved of their own accord as she followed him like an obedient puppy. Lani blinked at the bright sunlight after spending several days in the dark dungeon, her hair ratty and matted. She was sure she smelled like a corpse, especially next to the tall stranger who smelled of earthy musk and patchouli.
It wasn’t till she spotted a golden crested carriage with four, massive Percherons with braids waiting out front that it dawned the man was not simply a messenger from the court. Why did Warden Violet call him ‘my lord’? Lani was too terrified to ask him questions and stood in place. She briefly wondered if he was simply going to tie a rope to her binds and make her walk behind the carriage.
The man opened the door to the carriage and waited, a noticeably disinterested look on his face. After staring in confusion, Lani finally got the hint and quickly scrambled inside. She immediately noticed the seats were a handsome, maroon velvet and the side lace and curtains were golden silks. The interior of this carriage was the epitome of luxury compared to her cot which smelled of cow dung and moldy cheese. She glanced out the window to spot the curious faces of the villagers who gathered to watch her go, all wondering what would become of her fate. As a no-name orphan, she assumed most of them only hoped to show up at her public execution and treat it as a holiday. She wouldn’t blame them - not after those deaths.
Before she could think about what this all meant, the wheels began to turn and the carriage was soon on its way out of Parvan Village.
She stared in silence as the carriage moved past Salma’s Sundries, the general shop where she often traded in jams she canned. Salma, a heavyset woman with an apron, was standing outside the shop with her hands on her hips. She was perhaps the only one who would ever consider Lani’s innocence. Salma was always kind to Lani and had taught her how to read. Now she had a somber expression, her gaze full of pity. It was almost worse than the angry stares.
Lani looked away and bit her lip, hot tears leaking from her eyes again. She was deeply embarrassed, sitting here next to this mystery man as she was carted off to her doom. The slight bumps and grooves from the carriage reminded her of the different turns and paths she recognized so well. They were just making it past the town square after passing through the residential buildings and the great church. She could picture the church spire looming tall above everything else in the village, the perfectly manicured peonies and coneflowers.
The paved road turned into dirt as they slowly began to exit the outskirts of the village. Lani gave a final glance back at the wooden, perimeter fencing before she gazed ahead. There were nothing but green fields stretched out as far as the eye could see on both sides. She had never set foot outside of Parvan Village, and certainly had no idea what lay beyond the fenceline. The ridges of Halyon Mountains loomed far ahead but she knew the castle was several days away at least.
Lani dared to cast a glance back at the passenger next to her, having pretended he wasn’t seated there in his refined, statuesque glory the whole time. He thrived in silence, the brush of wind from the open window the only thing to mar his perfectly coiffed hair. Did he even notice she was blatantly studying him as one would appraise a work of art?
“W-Who are you?” Lani muttered, “My lord,” She added at the end, her voice awkwardly an octave higher.
It seemed like he didn’t hear her, and if he did, he certainly didn’t care to answer. Lani pursed and wetted her lips, staring back down at her lap. This was going to be a very long journey if the man refused to speak. She half wondered if the carriage driver was just as surly.
She wasn’t sure if it was the gentle rocking of the carriage or the ridiculously cushy seats, but Lani was fast asleep moments later. It wasn’t until they came to a halt that her head lurched down towards her collarbones. She awoke with a start, realizing she fell asleep with her face plastered against the window with her mouth hanging open and bits of drool dribbling down the corner of her lip.
Lani didn’t dare to glance at the mystery man and catch that judgmental gaze, but she heard his side of the carriage door open. She quickly wiped off her face, squinting and realizing that she had been asleep for hours and it was nighttime. The soft glow of lights and the sound of voices suggested they had arrived at another town. Her side of the door opened and she almost toppled out, barely catching the carriage’s top prop with a hand to catch herself. That was when she realized she only needed one hand to do it.
When had her manacles been removed?
A hand reached up to help her down, and she saw the kind, elderly face of the coachman. He had been driving the carriage, blocked away from the passengers with the divider. While the tall man was nowhere to be seen, the coachman stayed behind, “My name is Osmond,” He explained as Lani gingerly took the steps down.
“Can you tell me what’s going on?” She asked him in desperation, hoping this man would at least shed some light on her fate.
“I’m afraid that’s between you and the crown, my lady,” Osmond said, crestfallen, “I’m not privy to much myself other than retrieving you from Parvan and bringing you back to the castle.”
“Who is the other man with me?” Lani finally dared to ask.
Osmond looked over as if considering his words carefully, “Lord Emrys of Astalon, the King’s Court,” He said with a nod, “He is a noble from the Crown.”
Lani suspected as much. The man carried himself as if he was born to rule over the hearts and minds of all who dared to behold him. She silently followed Osmond as he led her toward what appeared to be a tavern. From the looks of it this was a crossroads checkpoint with a tavern with room and board, along with a few tiny shops scattered around. Travelers stopped here for the night before continuing on the King’s Road. The sign above the tavern was a wooden, rackety thing that had ‘The Grumpy Toad’ written on it in crude letters. Lani could already spot a woman standing outside in a revealing bodice, flashing leering gazes at the men that passed.
The inside of the tavern was bustling with life - there were several patrons from various towns and different walks of life. There were rugged men with mugs of foaming ale, there was a woman in the corner strumming some strings and singing a tune, customers banging their mugs on the table to call the barmaid over, and a hooded man in the far corner.
“Ah! That’ll be him,” Osmond said as he gestured Lani towards the man, “I’ll go back to tend to the carriage, you take care!”
Lani awkwardly shuffled towards the table in the back where Lord Emrys was seated as discreetly as someone that tall could. Before she could pull up a chair to sit, he spoke without looking up, “I booked two rooms,” That familiar baritone resounded as he slid some keys across the table, “Go have a bath. The women should have prepared some clothes for you.”
“O-Oh, th-thank you,” Lani said before she began to add, “M-My lord”
He said nothing in return, not lifting his gaze to meet hers. As if she wasn't there at all. Lani felt like a tiny worm on a hook and she quickly spun on her heel and bolted away. The man was awful! How could a noble have such terrible manners and social skills? She was furious the entire way up the stairs and into the room, though her anger melted away when she saw a warm bed and a bath already drawn. There was clothing laid out for her on the bed and oil reeds to add a gentle, vanilla scent to the air. Compared to the loft atop the barn where she normally slept, this was a night in a castle.
Lani sank into the hot bath, taking a moment to simply soak before she began to scrub the muck and grime off from the prison dungeon. She may have had an execution coming up in a few days, but she would fully embrace whatever hospitality and luxuries she could until then. For once, her thoughts shifted away from the deaths and towards the journey away from Parvan. She thought of all the other lands in the realm of Zarul she only heard about in passing - the town of Vuul and its precious gems, the mining city of Olgoth at the base of Halyon Mountains, the great old forest of Rhynwood. They had all been stories and legends to her, but she would be passing by some of these on the path to Castle Astalon.
Why was a noble of the Crown here to escort her personally? They could have sent any lowly worker to fetch a random girl on trial for murder at an unremarkable village. Lani finished the bath at last, dressing in a tunic that ended at the knees with some leggings underneath. There was a cloak that she fastened atop it as she took a moment to gaze at herself in the mirror. She could almost pass for a middle class civilian, venturing to smile at her reflection now that the grime was off her face.
The smile was gone by the time she descended the stairs again to rejoin her prickly companion. The prissy noble hadn’t moved an inch, still seated at that corner table and now with a plate of bread and cheese in front of him. Lani didn’t know anyone else, so she awkwardly took a seat across from him.
After a moment of fidgeting in silence, Lani sighed and looked at Emrys, “Am I a prisoner or am I free?” She asked, holding up her wrists that were no longer bound.
The man said nothing, quietly nibbling on a piece of bread.
“Look at me!” Lani snapped at him, a sudden lull in the dialogue around her suggesting that a few patrons were looking their way. She didn’t care - she was fed up with the silent treatment. The gesture got his attention and he slowly met her gaze. Those same, striking eyes always made her want to shrink back. His face was set in stone, the contours of his handsome face perfectly chiseled through years of royal bloodlines. She almost fumbled out an apology, but she stood her ground this time, staring intently at him.
“You did kill those people,” He said at last. Those simple words came crashing down on Lani like a tidal wave, and she was suddenly pulled underwater with pressure threatening to collapse her lungs. All of her worst fears had come true. She couldn’t fathom how or why, but a place deep inside, nestled in her gut, always suspected that she was responsible.
“H-How?” She croaked, “I..I don’t remember any of it. I was a victim myself! I had a nosebleed!” She pointed at her own nose as if the evidence was there now.
“You will be told more in time,” Emrys said dryly.
Before Lani could protest, the doors to the tavern were slammed open. Three armored individuals strutted in, one man and two women. They were adorned in leather armor, the women carrying blades and the man with a mace. He stood tall and bulky, his head bald and a red tattoo of a sickle etched over the side of his face.
One of the slightly drunk guests stood up from his table, walking over to the trio as he gave a lazy point with his finger, “Hey, you’re not -hic- s’upposed to have weapons in here!” He half slurred, moving a bit closer. His next words ended in a gasp as one of the women grasped him by the shoulder and drove one of her daggers right into his gut. The man fell with a thud on the ground, clutching his profusely bleeding abdomen.
Emrys quickly turned to Lani, his gaze severe, “Hide,” He commanded. Lani didn’t need to be told twice, scrambling to her hands and knees and shuffling away to duck behind the bar.
“HEY!” The stabbed man’s friends jumped up from their seats, taking swings at the group. The women moved efficiently, ducking under incoming punches to drive their weapons into ribs and lungs. One of the men fell dead with a dagger pierced through the eye.
“We are looking for a Weave Touched girl!” The armored man’s voice boomed. The inn was perfectly silent in fright save for the quiet whimpering of the man still alive with that gut wound. The armored man took a few steps forth, raised his mace and slammed it down to smash the dying man’s face in, putting him out of his misery, “A girl of 17 or 18. Came in that pretty little carriage outside.”
Lani froze where she was. Were they talking about her? She was trembling, slowly glancing up at the barmaid that was on this side of the bar. The elderly woman’s gaze flicked down to her and then back towards the thugs.
“If you’re hiding her, we’ll kill every single person in here till we find her!” The male’s voice resounded.
Lani felt sick to her stomach. She silently pleaded with the barmaid, but she could see the terror on the woman’s face. The woman took a deep breath and looked back towards the attackers, “She is-” Before the woman could finish, a strange layer of ice formed right over her mouth. The rest of her sentence ended in shocked, muffled mumbling as she clutched at the thin sheet of ice layered over her lips.
From where she was, Lani could hear absolute chaos and commotion. She quickly crawled out from her hiding spot to peek on the other side. To her shock, it was her broody companion! He sprang into action and was actively engaging the three combatants. Emrys had what appeared to be blades made of ice protruding from his hands as extensions of them, weapons he forged himself. Lani had only heard stories of such powers.
One of the female mercenaries slashed at Emrys with her blade, and he met it with an ice blade, parrying and pivoting around her to drive his second blade into her chest. Before the woman ever hit the ground, the blade was out of her chest and Emrys spun around to meet another incoming attack from the remaining woman. He ducked as the male slammed down with his mace, though a second attack shattered through one of the ice blades.
Emrys was a blur of motions, gracefully spinning and moving on his feet like a dervish. He was an abstract of that faint, chilling blue of ice that blended against the brown backdrop of the tavern. He was moving so fast Lani could barely keep up, the sound of clanking blades echoing as shards of ice chipped away from every hit. The tavern patrons all scrambled in different directions, finding any exit they could. Some shattered the windows open and crawled out, others found an opening to run out the front doors and a few ran upstairs to hide. Lani was stuck where she was, the barmaid almost tripping over her to run away with her hands clutching her frozen mouth.
Lani was considering her next move when Emrys abruptly arrived around the corner, “It's safe now, let's go,” He barked at her. She noticed he was clutching his side, his hands still pale blue from where he had forged the ice blades. Lani bolted and followed after him, noting the way he hunched as he moved.
“You’re hurt!” She called out after him. As expected, he said nothing. Lani cast a quick glance at the dead mercenaries, all wearing deep slash or stab wounds that were cauterized with an icy burn. She noticed Emrys pause briefly to snatch something off the dead male's body before the two of them stepped outside.
They were back at the carriage and Lani gasped, spotting Osmond the coachman lying dead on the ground in a pool of his own blood. He had been killed before the mercenaries ever entered the tavern. Unsure of what to do, Lani began to climb into the carriage.
“No,” Emrys half gasped, “We take the horses,” He said, his voice sounding weak.
“We have to get you help!” Lani yelled at him, “You’re not going to last long with that wound!”
Emrys paused and inspected his side, moving his hand to reveal the blood. He sighed to himself, quickly undoing the tethers on the horses, “We will ride the rest of the way,” Emrys said, “It’ll be faster and-”
“You are bleeding out!” Lani shouted, her tone firmer than she expected, “You will fall off your horse and die this way!”
“There is no time,” Emrys said as he untethered one of the horses, “Those people do not operate alone. Reinforcements are on their way,” He said, wincing as pain shot through his body. Before he could climb on the horse, he stumbled and looked down at his wound again. Had the jab been that bad?
Lani despised this feeling of helplessness. On one hand, she could watch him die and she could run away. There would be no execution, no imprisonment, no parading her around. Then again, she would always have questions that went unanswered. What was a Weave Touched? Why did Emrys have such strange abilities? Why were those mercenaries looking for her? No, he wasn’t allowed to die on her. He owed her too many answers.
Before she realized what she was doing, a shuddered gasp escaped her. Emrys eyed her curiously as Lani began to tremble where she stood. She surrendered to that feeling of her rage and anger, that stubborn desire to keep Emrys alive. His silver eyes widened as he studied his wound, feeling the pain subside and alleviate.
Lani’s eyes were glazed over and the pool of blood around Osmond’s body began to evaporate. After a moment, she snapped out of her reverie, staring in confusion at Emrys. She scowled at him, “We need to get you help!” She recalled her last line of thought.
Emrys remained silent, glancing from Lani, to Osmond, and then back to Lani. He opted not to say anything on the topic, “It is only a surface wound,” He said dismissively, “I will live,” He would live now that she had saved his life without even realizing what she had done. Without understanding how she applied one of the most twisted forms of Weaving. It was haunting to behold and it left him internally shaken.
Shouts behind them suggested the reinforcements were on their way. Emrys hopped onto his horse after freeing a second one, “Get on a horse,” He commanded, “You know how to ride, yes?”
How did Emrys seem stronger? He was fading away just moments prior. Lani stared up at him sheepishly, “I… well, one time when I was a child, Old Gran Millie put me on a pony and-”
The man growled to himself, grasping Lani to hoist her up into his horse. She yelped as she was unceremoniously plopped on Emrys’ horse right in front of him, his arms and broad frame wrapping around her to take the reins. Before she could complain, Emrys snapped the leathers and the horse bolted into a gallop, leaving death and the chaos behind in their wake.
**
submitted by CleanYogurtcloset803 to fantasywriters [link] [comments]
Chapter 1
****
She was still reeling from the memory.
One moment she was walking down the street and the next she awoke to screams and herself standing with corpses strewn around her. All of them had blood seeping from their eyes, ears, and noses as if their very insides had been melted and drained from their orifices. Twenty people had dropped abruptly in a concentric circle around her with her standing in the middle. They had been innocent villagers, just random passersby on their way in the village no different than her. She was left standing with nothing more than a nosebleed. However, instead of considering her a survivor of the same attack, she was cast into suspicion.
She was in a dungeon since then, scratching at the manacles around her wrists. None of this made any sense - she was an orphan and worked on a farm. The day had been no different than the others - she had just gotten done dropping off cans of cow’s milk at the village shipping silo. She was initially accused of using weapons to murder everyone and the stories got more and more far-fetched till the village elder finally suggested simply putting her in the dungeon until it was time for a trial.
The dank, dark dungeon was a level below ground and there was a tiny triangle shaped window just too high for her to peek through. The stench of old rot and rat feces permeated strongly enough to where she was sure it was in her hair. She was terrified - first of what happened, second of not knowing why it happened, and lastly of what may happen to her. Her heart was racing and thundering against her chest as she curled up against the mossy, limestone walls. There was a distant, rhythmic drip of water as if from a leaky pipe somewhere and it drove her almost as mad as her own anxieties.
She could think about nothing but the guilt from those dead faces, but also conflict because she was so certain she hadn’t done anything wrong. She was just as confused as the rest of the witnesses that saw the bodies abruptly collapse. She had known some of those people and she would never forget their sunken cheeks and bloody visages for as long as she lived.
She already heard many villagers calling for her to be executed immediately for her crimes. Several others averted their gaze in fear and prayed to their gods as she passed them to the dungeons. Some prayed for her soul for demons had claimed it. She couldn’t imagine anyone fearing her. She was 19, scrawny with unruly black hair, bronze skin, dull dark eyes and a plain, unremarkable appearance. She was Lani. Just Lani. How could anyone be afraid of her?
Lani surveyed the manacles that had to be especially tightened around her dainty arms. She was hoarse from crying and shouting her innocence, from screaming about how she was not possessed and how she didn’t kill all those people. No one listened to her. No one heard her. She sighed and hugged her knees to her chest, peering into the dark, metal bars of her cell. She had no choice but to wait for her sentencing, terrified and alone, accused of something she never did.
Lani was about to delve further into her self-destructive thoughts again when she heard footsteps approaching. She straightened up where she was seated, blinking through the darkness as the orange glow of a torch illuminated the dungeon corridor. There was just enough light to reveal the skeletal remains of the prisoner in the cell across from hers. Lani chewed on her lip, trying not to cry all over again.
“Prisoner,” The gruff voice of the guard resounded. The man was a titan, huge broad shoulders, a full beard and a malicious glint in his eye. She was sure if she was sentenced to die, he would swing the ax with a booming, maniacal laugh, “You are summoned. Get up,” He ordered, fishing out the keys to her cell and opening the door with a slow, grinding creak.
Lani shakily rose to her feet, her wrists firmly bound with the metals, “Please, I didn’t do this. I could never kill those-”
“Shut up,” He snapped, cutting her off, “Get moving,” He gestured with the torch for her to walk ahead of him. Lani’s gaze flicked down to spot the blade at his hip. She knew better than to run and hasten her own death.
The girl walked up the stone steps to the upper level of the prison. The village she lived in had been a peaceful one and it wasn’t often anyone managed to get thrown into the dungeons. Old Gibbsy was the last one to get tossed in for wandering around as a drunken fool one night in the village square. With a grimace, Lani wondered if that skeleton from earlier was the eccentric old man…
She arrived at the top of the steps where the floor opened to a wide hall with stone floors and curved, domed ceiling. She could overhear some voices already.
“-I don’t see how this needs to be escalated to the Crown,” Lani overheard the voice of Warden Violet, a severe and shrewd woman that vaguely reminded her of a venus flytrap. She strutted about through the square looking for excuses to condemn people to the dungeons or paying fines. Lani didn’t have to see her just yet to know the Warden was livid.
“This is classified business,” A masculine voice with a velvety varnish answered back, the inflection perfectly calm. It was a stark contrast to the rising temper in Warden Violet’s tone.
“Well this is positively absurd! I must insist-”
Lani turned the corner then - having been nudged forth by the guard after she started stalling. She stared wide-eyed at the two figures looking right at her - on the right was the Warden with a high-neck full-sleeved emerald dress to hug a thin, wiry frame. Her face sported a permanent grimace and an aquiline nose. Her hair was tied in a tight bun, streaks of gray weaving in with the black.
On the left was a man Lani had never seen before but could only describe him as…ethereal. He stood tall, almost unnaturally tall, with a strong jaw, high cheekbones, a flush of tan to his skin, and striking silver eyes set under pronounced black brows. His hair was perfectly styled without a single strand out of place. The way he carried himself and his posture suggested he didn’t frequent villages like hers often. Despite the way he carried himself, she doubted he was but a few years older than her.
“This is she?” The man asked without giving Lani more than a cursory glance, his gaze returning to Warden Violet.
“Yes,” The woman snapped.
“Very well,” The man said, unfazed by the Warden's clear agitation, “She will be accompanying me back to the castle.”
“And what am I supposed to tell the families of the decease-”
“Rest assured,” The man said, his baritone icily cutting through Violet’s theatrics, “They will be compensated and move on.”
Lani forgot how to breathe during this entire exchange. She was still reeling from the deaths, wondering about her fate and now he mentioned the castle? She was going to the King’s castle? Lani felt sick to her stomach. She knew what was going to happen - they were going to execute her before the masses. They would make an example out of her by parading her around the square to let everyone throw vegetables at her and then her head would roll off to thunderous applause. Her skin turned pale and clammy, and she was positive her knees were weak enough to collapse.
“Are you hard of hearing?” The male voice sternly cut through her line of thought like a hot knife through butter. Lani realized the tall man was standing right across from her, clearly having addressed her. She had to crane her neck to regard him, her mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water. He had no patience for her antics and looked back at Warden Violet.
“Remove her binds,” The man ordered.
Warden Violent looked as if someone slapped her across the face, “I beg your pardon?” She scoffed. The man stared blankly at her, clearly on his last nerve, “I will give you the key, my lord, but I would prefer if she remained bound till you exit our borders.”
The man said nothing to that, extending a hand for the key. He turned to Lani at last, “Come,” He ordered and Lani’s legs moved of their own accord as she followed him like an obedient puppy. Lani blinked at the bright sunlight after spending several days in the dark dungeon, her hair ratty and matted. She was sure she smelled like a corpse, especially next to the tall stranger who smelled of earthy musk and patchouli.
It wasn’t till she spotted a golden crested carriage with four, massive Percherons with braids waiting out front that it dawned the man was not simply a messenger from the court. Why did Warden Violet call him ‘my lord’? Lani was too terrified to ask him questions and stood in place. She briefly wondered if he was simply going to tie a rope to her binds and make her walk behind the carriage.
The man opened the door to the carriage and waited, a noticeably disinterested look on his face. After staring in confusion, Lani finally got the hint and quickly scrambled inside. She immediately noticed the seats were a handsome, maroon velvet and the side lace and curtains were golden silks. The interior of this carriage was the epitome of luxury compared to her cot which smelled of cow dung and moldy cheese. She glanced out the window to spot the curious faces of the villagers who gathered to watch her go, all wondering what would become of her fate. As a no-name orphan, she assumed most of them only hoped to show up at her public execution and treat it as a holiday. She wouldn’t blame them - not after those deaths.
Before she could think about what this all meant, the wheels began to turn and the carriage was soon on its way out of Parvan Village.
She stared in silence as the carriage moved past Salma’s Sundries, the general shop where she often traded in jams she canned. Salma, a heavyset woman with an apron, was standing outside the shop with her hands on her hips. She was perhaps the only one who would ever consider Lani’s innocence. Salma was always kind to Lani and had taught her how to read. Now she had a somber expression, her gaze full of pity. It was almost worse than the angry stares.
Lani looked away and bit her lip, hot tears leaking from her eyes again. She was deeply embarrassed, sitting here next to this mystery man as she was carted off to her doom. The slight bumps and grooves from the carriage reminded her of the different turns and paths she recognized so well. They were just making it past the town square after passing through the residential buildings and the great church. She could picture the church spire looming tall above everything else in the village, the perfectly manicured peonies and coneflowers.
The paved road turned into dirt as they slowly began to exit the outskirts of the village. Lani gave a final glance back at the wooden, perimeter fencing before she gazed ahead. There were nothing but green fields stretched out as far as the eye could see on both sides. She had never set foot outside of Parvan Village, and certainly had no idea what lay beyond the fenceline. The ridges of Halyon Mountains loomed far ahead but she knew the castle was several days away at least.
Lani dared to cast a glance back at the passenger next to her, having pretended he wasn’t seated there in his refined, statuesque glory the whole time. He thrived in silence, the brush of wind from the open window the only thing to mar his perfectly coiffed hair. Did he even notice she was blatantly studying him as one would appraise a work of art?
“W-Who are you?” Lani muttered, “My lord,” She added at the end, her voice awkwardly an octave higher.
It seemed like he didn’t hear her, and if he did, he certainly didn’t care to answer. Lani pursed and wetted her lips, staring back down at her lap. This was going to be a very long journey if the man refused to speak. She half wondered if the carriage driver was just as surly.
She wasn’t sure if it was the gentle rocking of the carriage or the ridiculously cushy seats, but Lani was fast asleep moments later. It wasn’t until they came to a halt that her head lurched down towards her collarbones. She awoke with a start, realizing she fell asleep with her face plastered against the window with her mouth hanging open and bits of drool dribbling down the corner of her lip.
Lani didn’t dare to glance at the mystery man and catch that judgmental gaze, but she heard his side of the carriage door open. She quickly wiped off her face, squinting and realizing that she had been asleep for hours and it was nighttime. The soft glow of lights and the sound of voices suggested they had arrived at another town. Her side of the door opened and she almost toppled out, barely catching the carriage’s top prop with a hand to catch herself. That was when she realized she only needed one hand to do it.
When had her manacles been removed?
A hand reached up to help her down, and she saw the kind, elderly face of the coachman. He had been driving the carriage, blocked away from the passengers with the divider. While the tall man was nowhere to be seen, the coachman stayed behind, “My name is Osmond,” He explained as Lani gingerly took the steps down.
“Can you tell me what’s going on?” She asked him in desperation, hoping this man would at least shed some light on her fate.
“I’m afraid that’s between you and the crown, my lady,” Osmond said, crestfallen, “I’m not privy to much myself other than retrieving you from Parvan and bringing you back to the castle.”
“Who is the other man with me?” Lani finally dared to ask.
Osmond looked over as if considering his words carefully, “Lord Emrys of Astalon, the King’s Court,” He said with a nod, “He is a noble from the Crown.”
Lani suspected as much. The man carried himself as if he was born to rule over the hearts and minds of all who dared to behold him. She silently followed Osmond as he led her toward what appeared to be a tavern. From the looks of it this was a crossroads checkpoint with a tavern with room and board, along with a few tiny shops scattered around. Travelers stopped here for the night before continuing on the King’s Road. The sign above the tavern was a wooden, rackety thing that had ‘The Grumpy Toad’ written on it in crude letters. Lani could already spot a woman standing outside in a revealing bodice, flashing leering gazes at the men that passed.
The inside of the tavern was bustling with life - there were several patrons from various towns and different walks of life. There were rugged men with mugs of foaming ale, there was a woman in the corner strumming some strings and singing a tune, customers banging their mugs on the table to call the barmaid over, and a hooded man in the far corner.
“Ah! That’ll be him,” Osmond said as he gestured Lani towards the man, “I’ll go back to tend to the carriage, you take care!”
Lani awkwardly shuffled towards the table in the back where Lord Emrys was seated as discreetly as someone that tall could. Before she could pull up a chair to sit, he spoke without looking up, “I booked two rooms,” That familiar baritone resounded as he slid some keys across the table, “Go have a bath. The women should have prepared some clothes for you.”
“O-Oh, th-thank you,” Lani said before she began to add, “M-My lord”
He said nothing in return, not lifting his gaze to meet hers. As if she wasn't there at all. Lani felt like a tiny worm on a hook and she quickly spun on her heel and bolted away. The man was awful! How could a noble have such terrible manners and social skills? She was furious the entire way up the stairs and into the room, though her anger melted away when she saw a warm bed and a bath already drawn. There was clothing laid out for her on the bed and oil reeds to add a gentle, vanilla scent to the air. Compared to the loft atop the barn where she normally slept, this was a night in a castle.
Lani sank into the hot bath, taking a moment to simply soak before she began to scrub the muck and grime off from the prison dungeon. She may have had an execution coming up in a few days, but she would fully embrace whatever hospitality and luxuries she could until then. For once, her thoughts shifted away from the deaths and towards the journey away from Parvan. She thought of all the other lands in the realm of Zarul she only heard about in passing - the town of Vuul and its precious gems, the mining city of Olgoth at the base of Halyon Mountains, the great old forest of Rhynwood. They had all been stories and legends to her, but she would be passing by some of these on the path to Castle Astalon.
Why was a noble of the Crown here to escort her personally? They could have sent any lowly worker to fetch a random girl on trial for murder at an unremarkable village. Lani finished the bath at last, dressing in a tunic that ended at the knees with some leggings underneath. There was a cloak that she fastened atop it as she took a moment to gaze at herself in the mirror. She could almost pass for a middle class civilian, venturing to smile at her reflection now that the grime was off her face.
The smile was gone by the time she descended the stairs again to rejoin her prickly companion. The prissy noble hadn’t moved an inch, still seated at that corner table and now with a plate of bread and cheese in front of him. Lani didn’t know anyone else, so she awkwardly took a seat across from him.
After a moment of fidgeting in silence, Lani sighed and looked at Emrys, “Am I a prisoner or am I free?” She asked, holding up her wrists that were no longer bound.
The man said nothing, quietly nibbling on a piece of bread.
“Look at me!” Lani snapped at him, a sudden lull in the dialogue around her suggesting that a few patrons were looking their way. She didn’t care - she was fed up with the silent treatment. The gesture got his attention and he slowly met her gaze. Those same, striking eyes always made her want to shrink back. His face was set in stone, the contours of his handsome face perfectly chiseled through years of royal bloodlines. She almost fumbled out an apology, but she stood her ground this time, staring intently at him.
“You did kill those people,” He said at last. Those simple words came crashing down on Lani like a tidal wave, and she was suddenly pulled underwater with pressure threatening to collapse her lungs. All of her worst fears had come true. She couldn’t fathom how or why, but a place deep inside, nestled in her gut, always suspected that she was responsible.
“H-How?” She croaked, “I..I don’t remember any of it. I was a victim myself! I had a nosebleed!” She pointed at her own nose as if the evidence was there now.
“You will be told more in time,” Emrys said dryly.
Before Lani could protest, the doors to the tavern were slammed open. Three armored individuals strutted in, one man and two women. They were adorned in leather armor, the women carrying blades and the man with a mace. He stood tall and bulky, his head bald and a red tattoo of a sickle etched over the side of his face.
One of the slightly drunk guests stood up from his table, walking over to the trio as he gave a lazy point with his finger, “Hey, you’re not -hic- s’upposed to have weapons in here!” He half slurred, moving a bit closer. His next words ended in a gasp as one of the women grasped him by the shoulder and drove one of her daggers right into his gut. The man fell with a thud on the ground, clutching his profusely bleeding abdomen.
Emrys quickly turned to Lani, his gaze severe, “Hide,” He commanded. Lani didn’t need to be told twice, scrambling to her hands and knees and shuffling away to duck behind the bar.
“HEY!” The stabbed man’s friends jumped up from their seats, taking swings at the group. The women moved efficiently, ducking under incoming punches to drive their weapons into ribs and lungs. One of the men fell dead with a dagger pierced through the eye.
“We are looking for a Weave Touched girl!” The armored man’s voice boomed. The inn was perfectly silent in fright save for the quiet whimpering of the man still alive with that gut wound. The armored man took a few steps forth, raised his mace and slammed it down to smash the dying man’s face in, putting him out of his misery, “A girl of 17 or 18. Came in that pretty little carriage outside.”
Lani froze where she was. Were they talking about her? She was trembling, slowly glancing up at the barmaid that was on this side of the bar. The elderly woman’s gaze flicked down to her and then back towards the thugs.
“If you’re hiding her, we’ll kill every single person in here till we find her!” The male’s voice resounded.
Lani felt sick to her stomach. She silently pleaded with the barmaid, but she could see the terror on the woman’s face. The woman took a deep breath and looked back towards the attackers, “She is-” Before the woman could finish, a strange layer of ice formed right over her mouth. The rest of her sentence ended in shocked, muffled mumbling as she clutched at the thin sheet of ice layered over her lips.
From where she was, Lani could hear absolute chaos and commotion. She quickly crawled out from her hiding spot to peek on the other side. To her shock, it was her broody companion! He sprang into action and was actively engaging the three combatants. Emrys had what appeared to be blades made of ice protruding from his hands as extensions of them, weapons he forged himself. Lani had only heard stories of such powers.
One of the female mercenaries slashed at Emrys with her blade, and he met it with an ice blade, parrying and pivoting around her to drive his second blade into her chest. Before the woman ever hit the ground, the blade was out of her chest and Emrys spun around to meet another incoming attack from the remaining woman. He ducked as the male slammed down with his mace, though a second attack shattered through one of the ice blades.
Emrys was a blur of motions, gracefully spinning and moving on his feet like a dervish. He was an abstract of that faint, chilling blue of ice that blended against the brown backdrop of the tavern. He was moving so fast Lani could barely keep up, the sound of clanking blades echoing as shards of ice chipped away from every hit. The tavern patrons all scrambled in different directions, finding any exit they could. Some shattered the windows open and crawled out, others found an opening to run out the front doors and a few ran upstairs to hide. Lani was stuck where she was, the barmaid almost tripping over her to run away with her hands clutching her frozen mouth.
Lani was considering her next move when Emrys abruptly arrived around the corner, “It's safe now, let's go,” He barked at her. She noticed he was clutching his side, his hands still pale blue from where he had forged the ice blades. Lani bolted and followed after him, noting the way he hunched as he moved.
“You’re hurt!” She called out after him. As expected, he said nothing. Lani cast a quick glance at the dead mercenaries, all wearing deep slash or stab wounds that were cauterized with an icy burn. She noticed Emrys pause briefly to snatch something off the dead male's body before the two of them stepped outside.
They were back at the carriage and Lani gasped, spotting Osmond the coachman lying dead on the ground in a pool of his own blood. He had been killed before the mercenaries ever entered the tavern. Unsure of what to do, Lani began to climb into the carriage.
“No,” Emrys half gasped, “We take the horses,” He said, his voice sounding weak.
“We have to get you help!” Lani yelled at him, “You’re not going to last long with that wound!”
Emrys paused and inspected his side, moving his hand to reveal the blood. He sighed to himself, quickly undoing the tethers on the horses, “We will ride the rest of the way,” Emrys said, “It’ll be faster and-”
“You are bleeding out!” Lani shouted, her tone firmer than she expected, “You will fall off your horse and die this way!”
“There is no time,” Emrys said as he untethered one of the horses, “Those people do not operate alone. Reinforcements are on their way,” He said, wincing as pain shot through his body. Before he could climb on the horse, he stumbled and looked down at his wound again. Had the jab been that bad?
Lani despised this feeling of helplessness. On one hand, she could watch him die and she could run away. There would be no execution, no imprisonment, no parading her around. Then again, she would always have questions that went unanswered. What was a Weave Touched? Why did Emrys have such strange abilities? Why were those mercenaries looking for her? No, he wasn’t allowed to die on her. He owed her too many answers.
Before she realized what she was doing, a shuddered gasp escaped her. Emrys eyed her curiously as Lani began to tremble where she stood. She surrendered to that feeling of her rage and anger, that stubborn desire to keep Emrys alive. His silver eyes widened as he studied his wound, feeling the pain subside and alleviate.
Lani’s eyes were glazed over and the pool of blood around Osmond’s body began to evaporate. After a moment, she snapped out of her reverie, staring in confusion at Emrys. She scowled at him, “We need to get you help!” She recalled her last line of thought.
Emrys remained silent, glancing from Lani, to Osmond, and then back to Lani. He opted not to say anything on the topic, “It is only a surface wound,” He said dismissively, “I will live,” He would live now that she had saved his life without even realizing what she had done. Without understanding how she applied one of the most twisted forms of Weaving. It was haunting to behold and it left him internally shaken.
Shouts behind them suggested the reinforcements were on their way. Emrys hopped onto his horse after freeing a second one, “Get on a horse,” He commanded, “You know how to ride, yes?”
How did Emrys seem stronger? He was fading away just moments prior. Lani stared up at him sheepishly, “I… well, one time when I was a child, Old Gran Millie put me on a pony and-”
The man growled to himself, grasping Lani to hoist her up into his horse. She yelped as she was unceremoniously plopped on Emrys’ horse right in front of him, his arms and broad frame wrapping around her to take the reins. Before she could complain, Emrys snapped the leathers and the horse bolted into a gallop, leaving death and the chaos behind in their wake.
**
2024.04.05 23:44 wildswalker [WTS] ECLIPSE SALE! EXTRA $5, $10, $15 OFF + FREE STICKER PACKS NOW THROUGH SUNDAY 4/7, 12 Midnight EST (3AM PST 4/8) ONLY: * ADDED A FEW ITEMS * Shelters, Packs, Hammock, Fastpacks, Trekking Poles, Umbrella, Crampons, Gaiters, Kitchen Gear, Headlamps, Tools, etc.
Have faith all ye doomsayers, the sun shall yet shine again [I think] ! Great feedback history so buy with confidence. From now through Sunday, April 7, 12 Midnight EST (3AM PST April 8), get a free outdoor brand sticker pack assortment with every purchase, and, take the following off already great prices: Additional $5 off a total of $50 or more; Additional $10 off a total of $100 or more; Additional $15 off a total of $200 or more.
Ship to lower 48 states (open to shipping internationally and to AK & HI, please ask). Accept Paypal cash, either Friends & Family or add 3% for Paypal Goods & Services fee, whichever you prefer. Just let me know what you’d like and I’ll check the least expensive UPS and USPS tracked shipping. All sales are final. Thanks for looking!
*** SHELTER **\*
1) Liteway Pyraomm Duo Tarp 2P Pyramid, Stealth Olive (just like MLD Duomid) + Liteway Pyraomm Mesh Half Inner, New (set up only once), $349 (Regularly $475 = Tarp $281 + Inner $194. Equivalent MLD Duomid Tarp and Solomid XL mesh inner is $470 = $290 + $180). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Tq5mtRP - An extremely well-made pyramid shelter and generous half mesh inner - use the tarp alone, or the mesh alone on nice nights for stargazing, or both together for an ultralight double wall shelter. Fantastic bomber solo shelter, and the tarp works for two, but I’m always with my partner and we need a wider inner. Sheds wind far better than double trekking pole shelters. https://liteway.equipment/pyraomm-duo/pyraomm-duo-tarp https://liteway.equipment/pyraomm-duo-half-mesh
2) Six Moon Designs Ultralight Owyhee Modular Tent & Bathtub Floor Set, Stealth Green, New, $239 (Regularly $310) - Ultralight, 24.6 oz (689g) Two-Person tarp with a full perimeter of No-See-Um netting, internal gear loft, and a removable bathtub floor. Plenty of room for two and a palace for one. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/0UUUYdV https://www.sixmoondesigns.com/products/owyhee-backpacking-tarp?variant=39966013521962
3) Hennessy Hammock 4 Season Expedition with XXL Snake Skins, New, $245 (regularly $309.90 = $289.95 + $19.95 for the XXL Snakeskins). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/LZN8HI8 Not only is the HH Expedition one of the best, most comfortable and durable 4 season hammocks you can get, it’s also popular for summer use in areas of high bug pressure as the double bottom is impervious to the worst mosquitoes (mosquitoes can bite through single layer hammocks). Many militaries rely on HH hammocks for good reason. Comes complete with attached mosquito netting, detachable Hex rain fly, support ropes, compression sack with set up instructions on back, complimentary standard 42" / 107 cm long "Tree Hugger" webbing straps to protect the bark of trees, and an oversized open-cell foam pad. HH asymmetrical design is very comfortable compared to more classic hammock designs.
*** PACKS & PACKING**\*
1) Ultimate Direction Fastpack 30L, New, M/L, $139 (regularly $179.95 + tax) - One of the best fastpacking packs from one of the most experienced trail running companies. No bouncing or swaying, plenty of ways to fine-tune fit and lots of well-thought-out pockets for organization. Also great for quick 2-3 day backpacking trips and dayhikes. Size goes by measurement around your lowest rib, M/L: 30 to 48 in. (76-122 cm) https://ultimatedirection.com/fastpack-30/ Photos: https://imgur.com/a/7euWb9F
2) Ultimate Direction Fastpackher 30L, M/L, New, $139 (regularly $179.95 + tax) - One of the best fastpacking packs from one of the most experienced trail running companies. No bouncing or swaying, plenty of ways to fine-tune fit and lots of well-thought-out pockets for organization. Also great for quick 2-3 day backpacking trips and dayhikes. Size goes by measurement around your lowest rib, M/L: 23 to 49 in. (60-125 cm). https://ultimatedirection.com/fastpackher-30-2-0/ Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZfY5IB4
3) Granite Gear Blaze 60L Backpack Women’s Fit, Highly Adjustable Regular Frame (18-21 in. torso), Black, New, only $209 (regularly $299.94 + Tax). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/SF9XV3r One of the most adjustable and comfortable lightweight load haulers out there. The capacity and generous extendable collar are great for longer trips or trips with heavier gear or a big water carry, yet easily cinches down for shorter trips. Women’s specific fit and frame is highly adjustable so you can dial in the perfect fit (also works great for men with narrower shoulder width who do better with a narrower shoulder strap setup). Makes a great winter pack too, with durable material and many lashing points.
4) Hillsound Weatherproof Packstack Storage, 40L Tall, New, $18 (Regularly $23 + shipping) - weatherproof storage sack that made Outside Magazine's Gear Guide Editor's Choice Award. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/osVSSRE https://hillsound.com/products/packstack?variant=39696603742375
5) Hillsound Weatherproof Packstack Storage, 40L Short, New, $17 (Regularly $22 + shipping) - weatherproof storage sack that made Outside Magazine's Gear Guide Editor's Choice Award. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/osVSSRE https://hillsound.com/products/packstack?variant=39696603742375
***TREKKING POLES**\*
Diorite Telescopic Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles (pair), Cork handles, New $159 (regularly $189.99 + tax + shipping) - The most robust 4-season carbon fiber trekking pole for the weight. Hand-built in Portland, OR and sustainability designed with all replaceable parts. Ergonomic cork grips paired with padded adjustable wrist straps make for an all day comfortable hold. Newly engineered quick-lock system that holds firm. The pair includes snow and mud baskets, as well as rubber tips for city trekking. The Diorite Poles are designed and built to be the last poles you will ever need to buy, from a small business working to create local manufacturing jobs. Diorite poles were formerly called Cnoc Outdoors. All parts are compatible with the Cnoc poles. Full specs on the website here. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/M79Xqed
*** GAITERS **\*
1) Hillsound Super Armadillo Nano Gaiter, Small, New, $79 (Regularly $104.95 + shipping) - Super Armadillo Nano is a top-of-the-line gaiter with a thermoregulation and self-cleaning feature embedded in the upper section. The material adjusts to your temperature - keeps you warm or cools you off as needed and no water or dirt gets absorbed by the material. The upper section is paired with a lower section which is abrasion and slash / puncture resistant. Both sections are waterproof and breathable to keep you dry from the outside in and inside out. No snow, slush, rain, mud, scree, rocks, debris and dust are able to get into your boots or socks with these on and they also save your lower legs from brushy conditions. This is the choice for mountaineering, backpacking, snowshoeing and hunting. These gaiters are built to last and covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/9gIO1QG https://hillsound.com/products/super-armadillo-nano
2) Hillsound Armadillo LT Gaiter, Large, New, $59 (Regularly $79.95 + shipping) - Whether you are day-hiking, backpacking, hunting, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the front or backcountry - Armadillo LT™ is a solid gaiter choice for year-round use. They were designed for outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for a waterproof, contour-fitting, lightweight and durable outer or mid-layer to keep snow, rain, mud, scree, rocks, debris, dust and leeches out of boots / footwear and socks and to save your lower legs from brushy conditions. We know how important it is to have gear that is functional without compromising your comfort level which is why our design and material choices are so important. These gaiters are built to last - covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZPFwd90 https://hillsound.com/products/armadillo-lt-gaiter
*** MERINO **\*
1) Smartwood Merino Sock Bundle W’s US Size 7-9.5 (EU 38-41), New, only $59 (Regularly $100 + tax) (Men can wear this sock too, just look at the corresponding men’s size at Smartwool). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/jUTiq3V Super comfortable merino socks at an awesome price. Works just as well for men, just check the corresponding men’s size.
2) Women’s Medium Merino Long Sleeved Crew, Black, 100% Merino, New, only $39 (Regularly $75 + tax and shipping). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/XuJLsIN Odlo of Norway is a top quality Norwegian-founded Swiss-engineered European merino and outerwear maker. It’s double use - looks sharp and great on trail or in town and at work. Only 6.3 oz (180g) with tags.
**\* HIKING CRAMPONS FOR TRACTION ON ICE & STEEP GRASS SLOPES *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZbSvp4I
1) Hillsound Trail Crampon Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, Small, New, $65 (Regularly $84.95). Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury due to slips. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/trail-crampon
2) Hillsound Trail Crampon Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, XL, New, $65 (regularly $84.95). Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury due to slips. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/trail-crampon
3) Hillsound FreeStep 6 Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, Small, New, $52 (regularly $64.95) Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty, quiet and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/freesteps6-traction-device
**\* HEADLAMPS *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Mnrxp1w
1) FENIX HP25R Max 1000 Lumens 187 Meters High Output Rechargeable Headlamp with Neutral White Floodlight and Far Reaching Spotlight, $59 (Regularly $102 + tax). Super bright headlamp with massive light throw. New, taken out of the box for a moment for a demo. There’s a tear in one corner of the cardboard box (which you wouldn’t keep anyway). External battery chamber on back of band for balanced weight. https://www.fenixlighting.com/products/fenix-hp25r-rechargeable-headlamp
2) COAST FL75R Rechargeable Headlamp Kit, New $45 (Regularly $59.99 + tax and shipping) - Up to 530 lumens brightness, 511 ft range, with adjustable focusing beam from bulls-eye spot to wid flood. Comes with both rechargeable battery up to 500 charges and 3 Duracells AAA. Note that though this is new in the plastic see-through package, I can see that one of the included duracells in the plastic package leaked (these are in a separate compartment in the plastic blister package, not in the headlamp, and do not affect the headlamp at all). https://coastportland.com/collections/headlamps/products/fl75r
3) Fenix E16 Portable, High Performance 700 lumen EDC Flashlight, New, $25(Regularly $39.95 + tax and shipping) - 700 lumen, 5 Modes, 16340 or CR123A battery.
4) Petzl eLite Ultralight Emergency Headlight & Signal Device, Pair, Never Used, only $20 for both (retailed for double the price) - includes adjustable headband and protective cases, many light settings including white, red, steady and blinking.
*** Knives, Tools & Kitchen *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/TfCHUez
1) COAST FDX300 Double Lock One-Handed Open Stainless Steel Folding Knife, 3 in. blade, New in blister package, New, 2 available, $20 each or $36 for both (regularly each $30 + tax & shipping) - One-handed opening, double lock system for double safety, stainless steel handle, partially-serrated and partially-straight blade, ambidextrous opening, 3-position pocket clip, 7Cr17 stainless steel (also known as 68Cr17, a modified version of 440A steel, with more vanadium elements added to give it extra strength, increase toughness and wear resistance). Lifetime warranty. It’s the drop point version of this COAST partially-serrated Tanto: https://coastportland.com/collections/cutting-tools/products/fdx306 Photos: https://imgur.com/a/yxS7uno
2) COAST Dual LED Multi Tool, New, $35 (Regularly $49.99 + tax) - The LED150 Multi-Tool comes packed with 13 tools that can help you master any task or job. Tools: Spring-loaded pliers with wire cutter, 3.0 in. Blade, two built-in LEDs, Phillips (1) and flathead (3) screwdriver tips, bottle opener, wire stripper, can opener. 2 x CR1616 batteries included. With Coast’s commitment to quality, the LED150 Multi-Tool is backed by Coast’s lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. 4 in length closed. Never opened clear blister case has some small cracks in the back around the sheath. https://coastportland.com/products/led150 Photos: https://imgur.com/a/VryHhPy
3) CNOC Outdoors 1L / 32 fl oz Cold Soak Bag, New, $9 - Convenient wide-mouth end for easy filling and cleaning. Allows you to soak your food while you’re hiking or paddling so that it’s fully hydrated and ready to eat when you get to camp. 1 liter / 34 oz Packed size: 7x1.5x1.5 in / 17.5x3.75x3.75 cm Trail size: 8x7 in / 20.5x17.5 cm Weight: 54 g / 1.9 oz Operational temperatures: 20°F (-6°C) to 120°F (49°C) Durable — despite the soft material, the bag has a breaking point of 220 lbs FDA approved and BPA, BPS, and BPF free https://www.garagegrowngear.com/blogs/gear-reviews/gear-review-cold-soak-1l-bag-by-cnoc-outdoors
**\* TREKKING UMBRELLA **\*
Silver Reflective Trekking Umbrella + case with shoulder strap, from EuroSCHIRM Swing Liteflex, the Original Trekking Umbrella, only 8 oz, New, $39 (Regularly $54.10 + tax and shipping) - If you’ve never hiked with a silver trekking umbrella, you don’t know what you’ve missed. In addition to keeping you dry in the rain without a stuffy rain jacket, in hot sunny weather it lowers the temperature underneath by 10-15F. Can easily be attached to backpack shoulder straps for hands-free shade and shelter from rain. The Swing Liteflex is the original silver trekking umbrella copied by other makers, quality German-made. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/x09rEop https://euroschirmusa.com/products/swing-liteflex?variant=33337648336
**\* POCKET SURVIVAL PACKS *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Mnrxp1w
Adventure Medical Kits Doug Ritter Equipped to Survive Pocket Survival Packs, New, $15 each (was $26.99 + tax and shipping) - a collaboration with survival expert Doug Ritter, of Equipped to Survive. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/POeccVT
Thanks for stopping by!
submitted by wildswalker to GearTrade [link] [comments]
Ship to lower 48 states (open to shipping internationally and to AK & HI, please ask). Accept Paypal cash, either Friends & Family or add 3% for Paypal Goods & Services fee, whichever you prefer. Just let me know what you’d like and I’ll check the least expensive UPS and USPS tracked shipping. All sales are final. Thanks for looking!
*** SHELTER **\*
1) Liteway Pyraomm Duo Tarp 2P Pyramid, Stealth Olive (just like MLD Duomid) + Liteway Pyraomm Mesh Half Inner, New (set up only once), $349 (Regularly $475 = Tarp $281 + Inner $194. Equivalent MLD Duomid Tarp and Solomid XL mesh inner is $470 = $290 + $180). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Tq5mtRP - An extremely well-made pyramid shelter and generous half mesh inner - use the tarp alone, or the mesh alone on nice nights for stargazing, or both together for an ultralight double wall shelter. Fantastic bomber solo shelter, and the tarp works for two, but I’m always with my partner and we need a wider inner. Sheds wind far better than double trekking pole shelters. https://liteway.equipment/pyraomm-duo/pyraomm-duo-tarp https://liteway.equipment/pyraomm-duo-half-mesh
2) Six Moon Designs Ultralight Owyhee Modular Tent & Bathtub Floor Set, Stealth Green, New, $239 (Regularly $310) - Ultralight, 24.6 oz (689g) Two-Person tarp with a full perimeter of No-See-Um netting, internal gear loft, and a removable bathtub floor. Plenty of room for two and a palace for one. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/0UUUYdV https://www.sixmoondesigns.com/products/owyhee-backpacking-tarp?variant=39966013521962
3) Hennessy Hammock 4 Season Expedition with XXL Snake Skins, New, $245 (regularly $309.90 = $289.95 + $19.95 for the XXL Snakeskins). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/LZN8HI8 Not only is the HH Expedition one of the best, most comfortable and durable 4 season hammocks you can get, it’s also popular for summer use in areas of high bug pressure as the double bottom is impervious to the worst mosquitoes (mosquitoes can bite through single layer hammocks). Many militaries rely on HH hammocks for good reason. Comes complete with attached mosquito netting, detachable Hex rain fly, support ropes, compression sack with set up instructions on back, complimentary standard 42" / 107 cm long "Tree Hugger" webbing straps to protect the bark of trees, and an oversized open-cell foam pad. HH asymmetrical design is very comfortable compared to more classic hammock designs.
*** PACKS & PACKING**\*
1) Ultimate Direction Fastpack 30L, New, M/L, $139 (regularly $179.95 + tax) - One of the best fastpacking packs from one of the most experienced trail running companies. No bouncing or swaying, plenty of ways to fine-tune fit and lots of well-thought-out pockets for organization. Also great for quick 2-3 day backpacking trips and dayhikes. Size goes by measurement around your lowest rib, M/L: 30 to 48 in. (76-122 cm) https://ultimatedirection.com/fastpack-30/ Photos: https://imgur.com/a/7euWb9F
2) Ultimate Direction Fastpackher 30L, M/L, New, $139 (regularly $179.95 + tax) - One of the best fastpacking packs from one of the most experienced trail running companies. No bouncing or swaying, plenty of ways to fine-tune fit and lots of well-thought-out pockets for organization. Also great for quick 2-3 day backpacking trips and dayhikes. Size goes by measurement around your lowest rib, M/L: 23 to 49 in. (60-125 cm). https://ultimatedirection.com/fastpackher-30-2-0/ Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZfY5IB4
3) Granite Gear Blaze 60L Backpack Women’s Fit, Highly Adjustable Regular Frame (18-21 in. torso), Black, New, only $209 (regularly $299.94 + Tax). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/SF9XV3r One of the most adjustable and comfortable lightweight load haulers out there. The capacity and generous extendable collar are great for longer trips or trips with heavier gear or a big water carry, yet easily cinches down for shorter trips. Women’s specific fit and frame is highly adjustable so you can dial in the perfect fit (also works great for men with narrower shoulder width who do better with a narrower shoulder strap setup). Makes a great winter pack too, with durable material and many lashing points.
4) Hillsound Weatherproof Packstack Storage, 40L Tall, New, $18 (Regularly $23 + shipping) - weatherproof storage sack that made Outside Magazine's Gear Guide Editor's Choice Award. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/osVSSRE https://hillsound.com/products/packstack?variant=39696603742375
5) Hillsound Weatherproof Packstack Storage, 40L Short, New, $17 (Regularly $22 + shipping) - weatherproof storage sack that made Outside Magazine's Gear Guide Editor's Choice Award. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/osVSSRE https://hillsound.com/products/packstack?variant=39696603742375
***TREKKING POLES**\*
Diorite Telescopic Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles (pair), Cork handles, New $159 (regularly $189.99 + tax + shipping) - The most robust 4-season carbon fiber trekking pole for the weight. Hand-built in Portland, OR and sustainability designed with all replaceable parts. Ergonomic cork grips paired with padded adjustable wrist straps make for an all day comfortable hold. Newly engineered quick-lock system that holds firm. The pair includes snow and mud baskets, as well as rubber tips for city trekking. The Diorite Poles are designed and built to be the last poles you will ever need to buy, from a small business working to create local manufacturing jobs. Diorite poles were formerly called Cnoc Outdoors. All parts are compatible with the Cnoc poles. Full specs on the website here. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/M79Xqed
*** GAITERS **\*
1) Hillsound Super Armadillo Nano Gaiter, Small, New, $79 (Regularly $104.95 + shipping) - Super Armadillo Nano is a top-of-the-line gaiter with a thermoregulation and self-cleaning feature embedded in the upper section. The material adjusts to your temperature - keeps you warm or cools you off as needed and no water or dirt gets absorbed by the material. The upper section is paired with a lower section which is abrasion and slash / puncture resistant. Both sections are waterproof and breathable to keep you dry from the outside in and inside out. No snow, slush, rain, mud, scree, rocks, debris and dust are able to get into your boots or socks with these on and they also save your lower legs from brushy conditions. This is the choice for mountaineering, backpacking, snowshoeing and hunting. These gaiters are built to last and covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/9gIO1QG https://hillsound.com/products/super-armadillo-nano
2) Hillsound Armadillo LT Gaiter, Large, New, $59 (Regularly $79.95 + shipping) - Whether you are day-hiking, backpacking, hunting, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the front or backcountry - Armadillo LT™ is a solid gaiter choice for year-round use. They were designed for outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for a waterproof, contour-fitting, lightweight and durable outer or mid-layer to keep snow, rain, mud, scree, rocks, debris, dust and leeches out of boots / footwear and socks and to save your lower legs from brushy conditions. We know how important it is to have gear that is functional without compromising your comfort level which is why our design and material choices are so important. These gaiters are built to last - covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZPFwd90 https://hillsound.com/products/armadillo-lt-gaiter
*** MERINO **\*
1) Smartwood Merino Sock Bundle W’s US Size 7-9.5 (EU 38-41), New, only $59 (Regularly $100 + tax) (Men can wear this sock too, just look at the corresponding men’s size at Smartwool). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/jUTiq3V Super comfortable merino socks at an awesome price. Works just as well for men, just check the corresponding men’s size.
2) Women’s Medium Merino Long Sleeved Crew, Black, 100% Merino, New, only $39 (Regularly $75 + tax and shipping). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/XuJLsIN Odlo of Norway is a top quality Norwegian-founded Swiss-engineered European merino and outerwear maker. It’s double use - looks sharp and great on trail or in town and at work. Only 6.3 oz (180g) with tags.
**\* HIKING CRAMPONS FOR TRACTION ON ICE & STEEP GRASS SLOPES *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZbSvp4I
1) Hillsound Trail Crampon Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, Small, New, $65 (Regularly $84.95). Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury due to slips. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/trail-crampon
2) Hillsound Trail Crampon Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, XL, New, $65 (regularly $84.95). Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury due to slips. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/trail-crampon
3) Hillsound FreeStep 6 Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, Small, New, $52 (regularly $64.95) Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty, quiet and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/freesteps6-traction-device
**\* HEADLAMPS *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Mnrxp1w
1) FENIX HP25R Max 1000 Lumens 187 Meters High Output Rechargeable Headlamp with Neutral White Floodlight and Far Reaching Spotlight, $59 (Regularly $102 + tax). Super bright headlamp with massive light throw. New, taken out of the box for a moment for a demo. There’s a tear in one corner of the cardboard box (which you wouldn’t keep anyway). External battery chamber on back of band for balanced weight. https://www.fenixlighting.com/products/fenix-hp25r-rechargeable-headlamp
2) COAST FL75R Rechargeable Headlamp Kit, New $45 (Regularly $59.99 + tax and shipping) - Up to 530 lumens brightness, 511 ft range, with adjustable focusing beam from bulls-eye spot to wid flood. Comes with both rechargeable battery up to 500 charges and 3 Duracells AAA. Note that though this is new in the plastic see-through package, I can see that one of the included duracells in the plastic package leaked (these are in a separate compartment in the plastic blister package, not in the headlamp, and do not affect the headlamp at all). https://coastportland.com/collections/headlamps/products/fl75r
3) Fenix E16 Portable, High Performance 700 lumen EDC Flashlight, New, $25(Regularly $39.95 + tax and shipping) - 700 lumen, 5 Modes, 16340 or CR123A battery.
4) Petzl eLite Ultralight Emergency Headlight & Signal Device, Pair, Never Used, only $20 for both (retailed for double the price) - includes adjustable headband and protective cases, many light settings including white, red, steady and blinking.
*** Knives, Tools & Kitchen *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/TfCHUez
1) COAST FDX300 Double Lock One-Handed Open Stainless Steel Folding Knife, 3 in. blade, New in blister package, New, 2 available, $20 each or $36 for both (regularly each $30 + tax & shipping) - One-handed opening, double lock system for double safety, stainless steel handle, partially-serrated and partially-straight blade, ambidextrous opening, 3-position pocket clip, 7Cr17 stainless steel (also known as 68Cr17, a modified version of 440A steel, with more vanadium elements added to give it extra strength, increase toughness and wear resistance). Lifetime warranty. It’s the drop point version of this COAST partially-serrated Tanto: https://coastportland.com/collections/cutting-tools/products/fdx306 Photos: https://imgur.com/a/yxS7uno
2) COAST Dual LED Multi Tool, New, $35 (Regularly $49.99 + tax) - The LED150 Multi-Tool comes packed with 13 tools that can help you master any task or job. Tools: Spring-loaded pliers with wire cutter, 3.0 in. Blade, two built-in LEDs, Phillips (1) and flathead (3) screwdriver tips, bottle opener, wire stripper, can opener. 2 x CR1616 batteries included. With Coast’s commitment to quality, the LED150 Multi-Tool is backed by Coast’s lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. 4 in length closed. Never opened clear blister case has some small cracks in the back around the sheath. https://coastportland.com/products/led150 Photos: https://imgur.com/a/VryHhPy
3) CNOC Outdoors 1L / 32 fl oz Cold Soak Bag, New, $9 - Convenient wide-mouth end for easy filling and cleaning. Allows you to soak your food while you’re hiking or paddling so that it’s fully hydrated and ready to eat when you get to camp. 1 liter / 34 oz Packed size: 7x1.5x1.5 in / 17.5x3.75x3.75 cm Trail size: 8x7 in / 20.5x17.5 cm Weight: 54 g / 1.9 oz Operational temperatures: 20°F (-6°C) to 120°F (49°C) Durable — despite the soft material, the bag has a breaking point of 220 lbs FDA approved and BPA, BPS, and BPF free https://www.garagegrowngear.com/blogs/gear-reviews/gear-review-cold-soak-1l-bag-by-cnoc-outdoors
**\* TREKKING UMBRELLA **\*
Silver Reflective Trekking Umbrella + case with shoulder strap, from EuroSCHIRM Swing Liteflex, the Original Trekking Umbrella, only 8 oz, New, $39 (Regularly $54.10 + tax and shipping) - If you’ve never hiked with a silver trekking umbrella, you don’t know what you’ve missed. In addition to keeping you dry in the rain without a stuffy rain jacket, in hot sunny weather it lowers the temperature underneath by 10-15F. Can easily be attached to backpack shoulder straps for hands-free shade and shelter from rain. The Swing Liteflex is the original silver trekking umbrella copied by other makers, quality German-made. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/x09rEop https://euroschirmusa.com/products/swing-liteflex?variant=33337648336
**\* POCKET SURVIVAL PACKS *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Mnrxp1w
Adventure Medical Kits Doug Ritter Equipped to Survive Pocket Survival Packs, New, $15 each (was $26.99 + tax and shipping) - a collaboration with survival expert Doug Ritter, of Equipped to Survive. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/POeccVT
Thanks for stopping by!
2024.04.05 03:11 wildswalker [WTS] ECLIPSE SALE! EXTRA $5, $10, $15 OFF + FREE STICKER PACKS NOW THROUGH SUNDAY 4/7, 12 Midnight EST (3AM PST 4/8) ONLY: Shelters, Packs, Hammock, Fastpacks, Trekking Poles, Umbrella, Crampons, Gaiters, Kitchen Gear, Headlamps - Gossamer Gear, Liteway, SMD, Ultimate Direction, CNOC / Diorite, etc
Have faith all ye doomsayers, the sun shall yet shine again [I think] ! Great feedback history so buy with confidence. From now through Sunday, April 7, 12 Midnight EST (3AM PST April 8), get a free outdoor brand sticker pack assortment with every purchase, and, take the following off already great prices: Additional $5 off a total of $50 or more; Additional $10 off a total of $100 or more; Additional $15 off a total of $200 or more.
Ship to lower 48 states (open to shipping internationally and to AK & HI, please ask). Accept Paypal cash, either Friends & Family or add 3% for Paypal Goods & Services fee, whichever you prefer. Just let me know what you’d like and I’ll check the least expensive UPS and USPS tracked shipping. All sales are final. Thanks for looking!
*** SHELTER **\*
1) Liteway Pyraomm Duo Tarp 2P Pyramid, Stealth Olive (just like MLD Duomid) + Liteway Pyraomm Mesh Half Inner, New (set up only once), $349 (Regularly $475 = Tarp $281 + Inner $194. Equivalent MLD Duomid Tarp and Solomid XL mesh inner is $470 = $290 + $180). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Tq5mtRP - An extremely well-made pyramid shelter and generous half mesh inner - use the tarp alone, or the mesh alone on nice nights for stargazing, or both together for an ultralight double wall shelter. Fantastic bomber solo shelter, and the tarp works for two, but I’m always with my partner and we need a wider inner. Sheds wind far better than double trekking pole shelters. https://liteway.equipment/pyraomm-duo/pyraomm-duo-tarp https://liteway.equipment/pyraomm-duo-half-mesh
2) Six Moon Designs Ultralight Owyhee Modular Tent & Bathtub Floor Set, Stealth Green, New, $239 (Regularly $310) - Ultralight, 24.6 oz (689g) Two-Person tarp with a full perimeter of No-See-Um netting, internal gear loft, and a removable bathtub floor. Plenty of room for two and a palace for one. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/0UUUYdV https://www.sixmoondesigns.com/products/owyhee-backpacking-tarp?variant=39966013521962
3) Hennessy Hammock 4 Season Expedition with XXL Snake Skins, New, $245 (regularly $309.90 = $289.95 + $19.95 for the XXL Snakeskins). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/LZN8HI8 Not only is the HH Expedition one of the best, most comfortable and durable 4 season hammocks you can get, it’s also popular for summer use in areas of high bug pressure as the double bottom is impervious to the worst mosquitoes (mosquitoes can bite through single layer hammocks). Many militaries rely on HH hammocks for good reason. Comes complete with attached mosquito netting, detachable Hex rain fly, support ropes, compression sack with set up instructions on back, complimentary standard 42" / 107 cm long "Tree Hugger" webbing straps to protect the bark of trees, and an oversized open-cell foam pad. HH asymmetrical design is very comfortable compared to more classic hammock designs.
4) *SOLD \*6 Toaks Ultralight Titanium Shelter Stakes Set with two nail stakes, two large V stakes (regularly $4.95 each), New, $19 (regularly $3.50 each, $4.95 each, and $3.50 each = $23.90 + tax and shipping). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/TfCHUez
*** PACKS & PACKING**\*
1) Ultimate Direction Fastpack 30L, New, M/L, $139 (regularly $179.95 + tax) - One of the best fastpacking packs from one of the most experienced trail running companies. No bouncing or swaying, plenty of ways to fine-tune fit and lots of well-thought-out pockets for organization. Also great for quick 2-3 day backpacking trips and dayhikes. Size goes by measurement around your lowest rib, M/L: 30 to 48 in. (76-122 cm) https://ultimatedirection.com/fastpack-30/ Photos: https://imgur.com/a/7euWb9F
2) Ultimate Direction Fastpackher 30L, M/L, New, $139 (regularly $179.95 + tax) - One of the best fastpacking packs from one of the most experienced trail running companies. No bouncing or swaying, plenty of ways to fine-tune fit and lots of well-thought-out pockets for organization. Also great for quick 2-3 day backpacking trips and dayhikes. Size goes by measurement around your lowest rib, M/L: 23 to 49 in. (60-125 cm). https://ultimatedirection.com/fastpackher-30-2-0/ Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZfY5IB4
3) Granite Gear Blaze 60L Backpack Women’s Fit, Highly Adjustable Regular Frame (18-21 in. torso), Black, New, only $209 (regularly $299.94 + Tax). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/SF9XV3r One of the most adjustable and comfortable lightweight load haulers out there. The capacity and generous extendable collar are great for longer trips or trips with heavier gear or a big water carry, yet easily cinches down for shorter trips. Women’s specific fit and frame is highly adjustable so you can dial in the perfect fit (also works great for men with narrower shoulder width who do better with a narrower shoulder strap setup). Makes a great winter pack too, with durable material and many lashing points.
4) Hillsound Weatherproof Packstack Storage, 40L Tall, New, $18 (Regularly $23 + shipping) - weatherproof storage sack that made Outside Magazine's Gear Guide Editor's Choice Award. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/osVSSRE https://hillsound.com/products/packstack?variant=39696603742375
5) Hillsound Weatherproof Packstack Storage, 40L Short, New, $17 (Regularly $22 + shipping) - weatherproof storage sack that made Outside Magazine's Gear Guide Editor's Choice Award. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/osVSSRE https://hillsound.com/products/packstack?variant=39696603742375
***TREKKING POLES**\*
1) Diorite Telescopic Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles (pair), Cork handles, New $159 (regularly $189.99 + tax + shipping) - The most robust 4-season carbon fiber trekking pole for the weight. Hand-built in Portland, OR and sustainability designed with all replaceable parts. Ergonomic cork grips paired with padded adjustable wrist straps make for an all day comfortable hold. Newly engineered quick-lock system that holds firm. The pair includes snow and mud baskets, as well as rubber tips for city trekking. The Diorite Poles are designed and built to be the last poles you will ever need to buy, from a small business working to create local manufacturing jobs. Diorite poles were formerly called Cnoc Outdoors. All parts are compatible with the Cnoc poles. Full specs on the website here. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/M79Xqed
2) * SOLD \*Gossamer Gear LT5 Three Piece Carbon Trekking Poles, Pair, New, $159 (regularly $195 + Tax). Some of the lightest and most portable 3-piece poles available anywhere, the LT5 is more compact than the LT4 and LT3 poles. Lighter poles means you get the same support for less weight lifted. Work perfectly with tents and tarps for a great ultralight shelter setup. Only 4.9 oz / 139g per pole! Photos: https://imgur.com/a/qyR3AqE https://www.gossamergear.com/products/lt5-three-piece-carbon-trekking-poles-pair
*** GAITERS **\*
1) Hillsound Super Armadillo Nano Gaiter, Small, New, $79 (Regularly $104.95 + shipping) - Super Armadillo Nano is a top-of-the-line gaiter with a thermoregulation and self-cleaning feature embedded in the upper section. The material adjusts to your temperature - keeps you warm or cools you off as needed and no water or dirt gets absorbed by the material. The upper section is paired with a lower section which is abrasion and slash / puncture resistant. Both sections are waterproof and breathable to keep you dry from the outside in and inside out. No snow, slush, rain, mud, scree, rocks, debris and dust are able to get into your boots or socks with these on and they also save your lower legs from brushy conditions. This is the choice for mountaineering, backpacking, snowshoeing and hunting. These gaiters are built to last and covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/9gIO1QG https://hillsound.com/products/super-armadillo-nano
2) Hillsound Armadillo LT Gaiter, Large, New, $59 (Regularly $79.95 + shipping) - Whether you are day-hiking, backpacking, hunting, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the front or backcountry - Armadillo LT™ is a solid gaiter choice for year-round use. They were designed for outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for a waterproof, contour-fitting, lightweight and durable outer or mid-layer to keep snow, rain, mud, scree, rocks, debris, dust and leeches out of boots / footwear and socks and to save your lower legs from brushy conditions. We know how important it is to have gear that is functional without compromising your comfort level which is why our design and material choices are so important. These gaiters are built to last - covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZPFwd90 https://hillsound.com/products/armadillo-lt-gaiter
*** MERINO **\*
1) Smartwood Merino Sock Bundle W’s US Size 7-9.5 (EU 38-41), New, only $59 (Regularly $100 + tax) (Men can wear this sock too, just look at the corresponding men’s size at Smartwool). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/jUTiq3V Super comfortable merino socks at an awesome price. Works just as well for men, just check the corresponding men’s size.
2) Women’s Medium Merino Long Sleeved Crew, Black, 100% Merino, New, only $39 (Regularly $75 + tax and shipping). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/XuJLsIN Odlo of Norway is a top quality Norwegian-founded Swiss-engineered European merino and outerwear maker. It’s double use - looks sharp and great on trail or in town and at work. Only 6.3 oz (180g) with tags.
**\* HIKING CRAMPONS FOR TRACTION ON ICE & STEEP GRASS SLOPES *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZbSvp4I
1) Hillsound Trail Crampon Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, Small, New, $65 (Regularly $84.95). Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury due to slips. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/trail-crampon
2) Hillsound Trail Crampon Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, XL, New, $65 (regularly $84.95). Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury due to slips. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/trail-crampon
3) Hillsound FreeStep 6 Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, Small, New, $52 (regularly $64.95) Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty, quiet and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/freesteps6-traction-device
**\* HEADLAMPS *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Mnrxp1w
1) FENIX HP25R Max 1000 Lumens 187 Meters High Output Rechargeable Headlamp with Neutral White Floodlight and Far Reaching Spotlight, $59 (Regularly $102 + tax). Super bright headlamp with massive light throw. New, taken out of the box for a moment for a demo. There’s a tear in one corner of the cardboard box (which you wouldn’t keep anyway). External battery chamber on back of band for balanced weight. https://www.fenixlighting.com/products/fenix-hp25r-rechargeable-headlamp
2) COAST FL75R Rechargeable Headlamp Kit, New $45 (Regularly $59.99 + tax and shipping) - Up to 530 lumens brightness, 511 ft range, with adjustable focusing beam from bulls-eye spot to wid flood. Comes with both rechargeable battery up to 500 charges and 3 Duracells AAA. Note that though this is new in the plastic see-through package, I can see that one of the included duracells in the plastic package leaked (these are in a separate compartment in the plastic blister package, not in the headlamp, and do not affect the headlamp at all). https://coastportland.com/collections/headlamps/products/fl75r
3) Fenix E16 Portable, High Performance 700 lumen EDC Flashlight, New, $25(Regularly $39.95 + tax and shipping) - 700 lumen, 5 Modes, 16340 or CR123A battery.
4) Petzl eLite Ultralight Emergency Headlight & Signal Device, Pair, Never Used, only $20 for both (retailed for double the price) - includes adjustable headband and protective cases, many light settings including white, red, steady and blinking.
*** Kitchen *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/TfCHUez
1) * SOLD \*Fire Maple Hornet Stove - ultralight, super compact and reliable titanium stove, New in stuff sack with instructions. Ultralight and compact and much more reliable than the BRS stove and more durable than the Pocket Rocket (lots of reports of Pocket Rockets breaking).
2) * SOLD \*Toaks Ultralight Titanium Spork, New, $7 (Regularly $8.95 + tax and shipping)
3) CNOC Outdoors 1L / 32 fl oz Cold Soak Bag, New, $9 - Convenient wide-mouth end for easy filling and cleaning. Allows you to soak your food while you’re hiking or paddling so that it’s fully hydrated and ready to eat when you get to camp. 1 liter / 34 oz Packed size: 7x1.5x1.5 in / 17.5x3.75x3.75 cm Trail size: 8x7 in / 20.5x17.5 cm Weight: 54 g / 1.9 oz Operational temperatures: 20°F (-6°C) to 120°F (49°C) Durable — despite the soft material, the bag has a breaking point of 220 lbs FDA approved and BPA, BPS, and BPF free https://www.garagegrowngear.com/blogs/gear-reviews/gear-review-cold-soak-1l-bag-by-cnoc-outdoors
**\* TREKKING UMBRELLA **\*
Silver Reflective Trekking Umbrella + case with shoulder strap, from EuroSCHIRM Swing Liteflex, the Original Trekking Umbrella, only 8 oz, New, $39 (Regularly $54.10 + tax and shipping) - If you’ve never hiked with a silver trekking umbrella, you don’t know what you’ve missed. In addition to keeping you dry in the rain without a stuffy rain jacket, in hot sunny weather it lowers the temperature underneath by 10-15F. Can easily be attached to backpack shoulder straps for hands-free shade and shelter from rain. The Swing Liteflex is the original silver trekking umbrella copied by other makers, quality German-made. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/x09rEop https://euroschirmusa.com/products/swing-liteflex?variant=33337648336
**\* POCKET SURVIVAL PACKS *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Mnrxp1w
Adventure Medical Kits Doug Ritter Equipped to Survive Pocket Survival Packs, New, $15 each (was $26.99 + tax and shipping) - a collaboration with survival expert Doug Ritter, of Equipped to Survive. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/POeccVT
Thanks for stopping by!
submitted by wildswalker to GearTrade [link] [comments]
Ship to lower 48 states (open to shipping internationally and to AK & HI, please ask). Accept Paypal cash, either Friends & Family or add 3% for Paypal Goods & Services fee, whichever you prefer. Just let me know what you’d like and I’ll check the least expensive UPS and USPS tracked shipping. All sales are final. Thanks for looking!
*** SHELTER **\*
1) Liteway Pyraomm Duo Tarp 2P Pyramid, Stealth Olive (just like MLD Duomid) + Liteway Pyraomm Mesh Half Inner, New (set up only once), $349 (Regularly $475 = Tarp $281 + Inner $194. Equivalent MLD Duomid Tarp and Solomid XL mesh inner is $470 = $290 + $180). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Tq5mtRP - An extremely well-made pyramid shelter and generous half mesh inner - use the tarp alone, or the mesh alone on nice nights for stargazing, or both together for an ultralight double wall shelter. Fantastic bomber solo shelter, and the tarp works for two, but I’m always with my partner and we need a wider inner. Sheds wind far better than double trekking pole shelters. https://liteway.equipment/pyraomm-duo/pyraomm-duo-tarp https://liteway.equipment/pyraomm-duo-half-mesh
2) Six Moon Designs Ultralight Owyhee Modular Tent & Bathtub Floor Set, Stealth Green, New, $239 (Regularly $310) - Ultralight, 24.6 oz (689g) Two-Person tarp with a full perimeter of No-See-Um netting, internal gear loft, and a removable bathtub floor. Plenty of room for two and a palace for one. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/0UUUYdV https://www.sixmoondesigns.com/products/owyhee-backpacking-tarp?variant=39966013521962
3) Hennessy Hammock 4 Season Expedition with XXL Snake Skins, New, $245 (regularly $309.90 = $289.95 + $19.95 for the XXL Snakeskins). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/LZN8HI8 Not only is the HH Expedition one of the best, most comfortable and durable 4 season hammocks you can get, it’s also popular for summer use in areas of high bug pressure as the double bottom is impervious to the worst mosquitoes (mosquitoes can bite through single layer hammocks). Many militaries rely on HH hammocks for good reason. Comes complete with attached mosquito netting, detachable Hex rain fly, support ropes, compression sack with set up instructions on back, complimentary standard 42" / 107 cm long "Tree Hugger" webbing straps to protect the bark of trees, and an oversized open-cell foam pad. HH asymmetrical design is very comfortable compared to more classic hammock designs.
4) *SOLD \*
*** PACKS & PACKING**\*
1) Ultimate Direction Fastpack 30L, New, M/L, $139 (regularly $179.95 + tax) - One of the best fastpacking packs from one of the most experienced trail running companies. No bouncing or swaying, plenty of ways to fine-tune fit and lots of well-thought-out pockets for organization. Also great for quick 2-3 day backpacking trips and dayhikes. Size goes by measurement around your lowest rib, M/L: 30 to 48 in. (76-122 cm) https://ultimatedirection.com/fastpack-30/ Photos: https://imgur.com/a/7euWb9F
2) Ultimate Direction Fastpackher 30L, M/L, New, $139 (regularly $179.95 + tax) - One of the best fastpacking packs from one of the most experienced trail running companies. No bouncing or swaying, plenty of ways to fine-tune fit and lots of well-thought-out pockets for organization. Also great for quick 2-3 day backpacking trips and dayhikes. Size goes by measurement around your lowest rib, M/L: 23 to 49 in. (60-125 cm). https://ultimatedirection.com/fastpackher-30-2-0/ Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZfY5IB4
3) Granite Gear Blaze 60L Backpack Women’s Fit, Highly Adjustable Regular Frame (18-21 in. torso), Black, New, only $209 (regularly $299.94 + Tax). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/SF9XV3r One of the most adjustable and comfortable lightweight load haulers out there. The capacity and generous extendable collar are great for longer trips or trips with heavier gear or a big water carry, yet easily cinches down for shorter trips. Women’s specific fit and frame is highly adjustable so you can dial in the perfect fit (also works great for men with narrower shoulder width who do better with a narrower shoulder strap setup). Makes a great winter pack too, with durable material and many lashing points.
4) Hillsound Weatherproof Packstack Storage, 40L Tall, New, $18 (Regularly $23 + shipping) - weatherproof storage sack that made Outside Magazine's Gear Guide Editor's Choice Award. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/osVSSRE https://hillsound.com/products/packstack?variant=39696603742375
5) Hillsound Weatherproof Packstack Storage, 40L Short, New, $17 (Regularly $22 + shipping) - weatherproof storage sack that made Outside Magazine's Gear Guide Editor's Choice Award. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/osVSSRE https://hillsound.com/products/packstack?variant=39696603742375
***TREKKING POLES**\*
1) Diorite Telescopic Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles (pair), Cork handles, New $159 (regularly $189.99 + tax + shipping) - The most robust 4-season carbon fiber trekking pole for the weight. Hand-built in Portland, OR and sustainability designed with all replaceable parts. Ergonomic cork grips paired with padded adjustable wrist straps make for an all day comfortable hold. Newly engineered quick-lock system that holds firm. The pair includes snow and mud baskets, as well as rubber tips for city trekking. The Diorite Poles are designed and built to be the last poles you will ever need to buy, from a small business working to create local manufacturing jobs. Diorite poles were formerly called Cnoc Outdoors. All parts are compatible with the Cnoc poles. Full specs on the website here. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/M79Xqed
2) * SOLD \*
*** GAITERS **\*
1) Hillsound Super Armadillo Nano Gaiter, Small, New, $79 (Regularly $104.95 + shipping) - Super Armadillo Nano is a top-of-the-line gaiter with a thermoregulation and self-cleaning feature embedded in the upper section. The material adjusts to your temperature - keeps you warm or cools you off as needed and no water or dirt gets absorbed by the material. The upper section is paired with a lower section which is abrasion and slash / puncture resistant. Both sections are waterproof and breathable to keep you dry from the outside in and inside out. No snow, slush, rain, mud, scree, rocks, debris and dust are able to get into your boots or socks with these on and they also save your lower legs from brushy conditions. This is the choice for mountaineering, backpacking, snowshoeing and hunting. These gaiters are built to last and covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/9gIO1QG https://hillsound.com/products/super-armadillo-nano
2) Hillsound Armadillo LT Gaiter, Large, New, $59 (Regularly $79.95 + shipping) - Whether you are day-hiking, backpacking, hunting, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the front or backcountry - Armadillo LT™ is a solid gaiter choice for year-round use. They were designed for outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for a waterproof, contour-fitting, lightweight and durable outer or mid-layer to keep snow, rain, mud, scree, rocks, debris, dust and leeches out of boots / footwear and socks and to save your lower legs from brushy conditions. We know how important it is to have gear that is functional without compromising your comfort level which is why our design and material choices are so important. These gaiters are built to last - covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZPFwd90 https://hillsound.com/products/armadillo-lt-gaiter
*** MERINO **\*
1) Smartwood Merino Sock Bundle W’s US Size 7-9.5 (EU 38-41), New, only $59 (Regularly $100 + tax) (Men can wear this sock too, just look at the corresponding men’s size at Smartwool). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/jUTiq3V Super comfortable merino socks at an awesome price. Works just as well for men, just check the corresponding men’s size.
2) Women’s Medium Merino Long Sleeved Crew, Black, 100% Merino, New, only $39 (Regularly $75 + tax and shipping). Photos: https://imgur.com/a/XuJLsIN Odlo of Norway is a top quality Norwegian-founded Swiss-engineered European merino and outerwear maker. It’s double use - looks sharp and great on trail or in town and at work. Only 6.3 oz (180g) with tags.
**\* HIKING CRAMPONS FOR TRACTION ON ICE & STEEP GRASS SLOPES *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ZbSvp4I
1) Hillsound Trail Crampon Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, Small, New, $65 (Regularly $84.95). Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury due to slips. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/trail-crampon
2) Hillsound Trail Crampon Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, XL, New, $65 (regularly $84.95). Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury due to slips. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/trail-crampon
3) Hillsound FreeStep 6 Hiking and Backpacking Crampon, Small, New, $52 (regularly $64.95) Later fall, winter and early spring are some of the best hiking times, with so much beauty, quiet and lack of crowds. Don’t let lack of traction stop you and avoid injury. Specs & Size Guide: https://hillsound.com/collections/traction/products/freesteps6-traction-device
**\* HEADLAMPS *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Mnrxp1w
1) FENIX HP25R Max 1000 Lumens 187 Meters High Output Rechargeable Headlamp with Neutral White Floodlight and Far Reaching Spotlight, $59 (Regularly $102 + tax). Super bright headlamp with massive light throw. New, taken out of the box for a moment for a demo. There’s a tear in one corner of the cardboard box (which you wouldn’t keep anyway). External battery chamber on back of band for balanced weight. https://www.fenixlighting.com/products/fenix-hp25r-rechargeable-headlamp
2) COAST FL75R Rechargeable Headlamp Kit, New $45 (Regularly $59.99 + tax and shipping) - Up to 530 lumens brightness, 511 ft range, with adjustable focusing beam from bulls-eye spot to wid flood. Comes with both rechargeable battery up to 500 charges and 3 Duracells AAA. Note that though this is new in the plastic see-through package, I can see that one of the included duracells in the plastic package leaked (these are in a separate compartment in the plastic blister package, not in the headlamp, and do not affect the headlamp at all). https://coastportland.com/collections/headlamps/products/fl75r
3) Fenix E16 Portable, High Performance 700 lumen EDC Flashlight, New, $25(Regularly $39.95 + tax and shipping) - 700 lumen, 5 Modes, 16340 or CR123A battery.
4) Petzl eLite Ultralight Emergency Headlight & Signal Device, Pair, Never Used, only $20 for both (retailed for double the price) - includes adjustable headband and protective cases, many light settings including white, red, steady and blinking.
*** Kitchen *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/TfCHUez
1) * SOLD \*
2) * SOLD \*
3) CNOC Outdoors 1L / 32 fl oz Cold Soak Bag, New, $9 - Convenient wide-mouth end for easy filling and cleaning. Allows you to soak your food while you’re hiking or paddling so that it’s fully hydrated and ready to eat when you get to camp. 1 liter / 34 oz Packed size: 7x1.5x1.5 in / 17.5x3.75x3.75 cm Trail size: 8x7 in / 20.5x17.5 cm Weight: 54 g / 1.9 oz Operational temperatures: 20°F (-6°C) to 120°F (49°C) Durable — despite the soft material, the bag has a breaking point of 220 lbs FDA approved and BPA, BPS, and BPF free https://www.garagegrowngear.com/blogs/gear-reviews/gear-review-cold-soak-1l-bag-by-cnoc-outdoors
**\* TREKKING UMBRELLA **\*
Silver Reflective Trekking Umbrella + case with shoulder strap, from EuroSCHIRM Swing Liteflex, the Original Trekking Umbrella, only 8 oz, New, $39 (Regularly $54.10 + tax and shipping) - If you’ve never hiked with a silver trekking umbrella, you don’t know what you’ve missed. In addition to keeping you dry in the rain without a stuffy rain jacket, in hot sunny weather it lowers the temperature underneath by 10-15F. Can easily be attached to backpack shoulder straps for hands-free shade and shelter from rain. The Swing Liteflex is the original silver trekking umbrella copied by other makers, quality German-made. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/x09rEop https://euroschirmusa.com/products/swing-liteflex?variant=33337648336
**\* POCKET SURVIVAL PACKS *** Photos: https://imgur.com/a/Mnrxp1w
Adventure Medical Kits Doug Ritter Equipped to Survive Pocket Survival Packs, New, $15 each (was $26.99 + tax and shipping) - a collaboration with survival expert Doug Ritter, of Equipped to Survive. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/POeccVT
Thanks for stopping by!
2024.03.29 04:47 inevitablewintertime Summer log cabin building for large family
Building a small log cabin “shed” (dry cabin) on high elevation mountainous terrain this summer. We are beyond excited and have been spending time up there most weekends with our 8 (!) young kids.
It’ll be under 200 square feet so probably 12x16 (interior floor space) with a loft. Using fire-touched ponderosa because it’s what we’ve got plenty of. We can’t move any dirt until May due to weather. We have a sketch out of our plan. I’ve done a frame built with log components many years ago. Partner is the brawn/skill but hasn’t done log before.
What can we do in the next month to prepare? We need to move some dirt or at least do some clearing for a "logging road" to the area with the best logs so can’t gather much yet. We could in theory clear a few trees but there's still snow on the ground. We are planing to hand strip logs, chainsaw mill them as necessary, and use granite rocks for foundation, adhering to a strict K.I.S.S. philosophy haha.
Other than just hanging out on the land, what can we do in advance of being able to move dirt and get started? I'd also be interested in hearing any thoughts and comments on the kid component of our endeavor. We are in a warming hut and pop up right now and it's going just fine, but even smoother is always better. :)
Much love, offgridders. xo
submitted by inevitablewintertime to OffGridCabins [link] [comments]
It’ll be under 200 square feet so probably 12x16 (interior floor space) with a loft. Using fire-touched ponderosa because it’s what we’ve got plenty of. We can’t move any dirt until May due to weather. We have a sketch out of our plan. I’ve done a frame built with log components many years ago. Partner is the brawn/skill but hasn’t done log before.
What can we do in the next month to prepare? We need to move some dirt or at least do some clearing for a "logging road" to the area with the best logs so can’t gather much yet. We could in theory clear a few trees but there's still snow on the ground. We are planing to hand strip logs, chainsaw mill them as necessary, and use granite rocks for foundation, adhering to a strict K.I.S.S. philosophy haha.
Other than just hanging out on the land, what can we do in advance of being able to move dirt and get started? I'd also be interested in hearing any thoughts and comments on the kid component of our endeavor. We are in a warming hut and pop up right now and it's going just fine, but even smoother is always better. :)
Much love, offgridders. xo
2024.03.29 03:22 redditduk [Megalist] SG Concerts, Gigs, Raves: Early April Easter to Hari Raya (29 Mar - 11 Apr 2024)
12 APR UPDATE: https://www.reddit.com/singaporemusicchat/comments/1c26c7k/reupload_megalist_sg_gigs_concerts_raves_mid/
I am on telegram: search sg music chat or visit t.me/sgmusicchat
submitted by redditduk to singaporemusicchat [link] [comments]
29 Mar 2024, Fri - Good Friday
truncated for word limit- Singapore Symphony Orchestra - John Williams' Essay and Flute Concerto - 1 of 2, Victoria Concert Hall, $15
- Esplanade Music: Poetry In Motion by San The Wordsmith (hip hop), outdoor, free
- Esplanade: Outspoken: Competitive Spoken Word (improv & poetry) , indoor concourse, free
- Esplanade Poetic Dance Drama till 31st: A Mere Touch of Green by 中国东方演艺集团, Theatre, $68
- Esplanade Theatre till 31st: Hi, Can You Hear Me? by The Necessary Stage, Theatre Studio, $38
- Chinese Children Drama: Chinese Proverbs - Mr "Smart", 华语儿童剧 《成语寓言剧之"聪明"先生》 1 of 2, Gateway Theatre Bukit Merah, $35
- Till 30 Mar Theatre: The Death of Singapore Theatre as Scripted by the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore, The Ngee Ann Kongsi Theatre @ Wild Rice, Funan, $30
- Live Electronic Experimental + DJ, BLENCH pres ZULI (EGY deconstructed glitch hiphop) ft. sl_owtalk, yetpet, Dodgy South, DJs yetpet, Nah, $32
- DJ, KOKO LOKO - Sergei Rex (ESP), Stephen Day & Reiko - 9 hour Latin edm event (tech tribal house, progressive, afro, reggaeton hiphop & more), NoonTalk x ShowCo Studio at Alice @ Mediapolis (one-north), $45
- DJ, Culture X WhoHurtYou❓ Presents Avril Lavigne x Paramore night (International Women's Day Celebration), club iki @ ikigai izakaya riverwalk (clarke quay), $20
- DJ Party, The Taylor Swift Era's End Game by UnfilteredPresents x sg.swifties , Projector X Golden Village No Spoilers Bar @ Cineleisure Orchard L5, [$28
- DJ, Daydream Nation by Ginette Chittick - indie , rock, shoegaze, punk and everything in between at projector, Projector X Golden Village Ruby Lounge @ Cineleisure Orchard L6, free
- DJ, Vertigo 26: DJ KidG of eatmePOPTART (electronic to indie pop, Asian disco), listening bar @ MINT Museum City Hall 26 Seah St, free/bar
- DJ, BLASÈ March Edition DJ Marie, K, Piratheeb - Hip-hop, Rnb, Dancehall and Reggaetón, Blu Jaz L2 @ bali ln (bugis), $16
- DJ, Here Kitty Kitty: Fresh Fridays Launch - Fuego Night's DJ Skilla and K Faith (Hip Hop R&B, Afrobeat, Reggaeton & Dancehall), cocktail lounge @ clarke quay blk e, free
- DJ, Christ! He's Coming! - DJ ESTR & AMPRSND lgbt event, salud @ 19 Keong Saik Rd, $25
- DJ, BARE dance party collab with Lluvia , gay event, MDLR club @ 62 cecil street (cbd), $68
- Closing Down Cocktail Bar DJ,THE FINAL FLING - Adieu Levant), Levant Bar @ 32 Tras Street L4 (maxwell), free/bar
- DJ, 🏖 Tanjong Beach Club: Manolet Dario (PH), Beach Club @ 120 Tanjong Beach Walk, Sentosa
- DJ, Thugshop x Unmute pres: Never Tooo Loud with JUSTINE PERRY (FRA-DE techno) & VAIBS, headquarters techno-house club @ 66A boat quay, $36
30 Mar 2024, Sat
truncated for word limit- KYUHYUN, Singapore Expo Hall 7, $128
- FISH LEONG 梁静茹 , Singapore Indoor Stadium, $98
- Marquee: VAVA (CN rapper, singer), nightclub @ marina bay sands shoppes, $45 or student dc
- After-Party: with DJ Sally , same as above
- Sakura Anime Garden Festival at Gardens by the Bay, Day 1 , Map IG 📸 free
- Japan Music Nights - Hiro from MY FIRST STORY, TeddyLoid, WISE of Teriyaki Boyz, supertree grove, free
- Warm up Concert: Sparkle Guitar Ensemble, Mike Miller, Allen, Narutee, ryoko, Kirameki future, Dear Kiss (JP), DJ Anisong Rave by Golden Mix, supertree main stage, free
- Wisma Geylang Serai / Bazaar: AFGAN and Ezad Lazim, , free
- Indie Cosy Singer-Songwriter Gig: Benny's, Krysta Joy, Enrico - Blankets, Tea, Lullabies with New Mongrels, Saylah Studios @ 180 Paya Lebar Rd, $25
- Gemilang Kampong Gelam: Tomok, baghdad street stage at kampong glam (bugis/nicoll highway) , free
- liminal archives Ramadhan market: ashruff, Song Lin Building L6 @ 1 Syed Alwi rd (lavender)
- Strait Up Blues Jam$20
- Maduro Jazz: Easter Jazz: An Exchange by Sarah-Kei Lauw & Russell Tay (jazz standards, bossa nova), maduro @ sofitel sentosa, $38++ drink credits
- Cool Cats Jazz: Diah & Micah presents Groove Night (soul) 3 of 3, nco club @ 32 beach rd (esplanade), $38
- Jazz Loft: NITA AARTSEN TRIO (Indonesian Latin jazz) 2 of 2, Blu Jaz L3 @ bali ln (bugis), $24
- Singapore Symphony Orchestra: John Williams - Essay and Flute Concerto - 2 of 2, Victoria Concert Hall, $15
- Churen Li's FEMME-DOM: A Piano Concert, The Arts House (old parliament city hall), IG info 📸 $43
- Esplanade Music: 2MANY 2MICS by Ihasamic! x Wovensound (hiphop, rnb, metal, pop) ft Eliza Cuarez & Jean Seizure, kozy allways & Khalif Rawi, Will Beale & Umar Sirhan, Hasyir Ibrahim & Ash, outdoor, free
- Esplanade Poetry Music: Dream a Granted Sky Book Launch by Felix Cheong ft Phoon Yu, Reuben Lai and Jonathan Shin - lyrical arias, piano, concourse. free
- Standup Comedy, Afrobeats & DJ Party RIVERSIDE LONG WEEKEND - ft Rumshot, MC JAC45 from Ghana, SWTLKR, DJ DrZ, Phil's Studio @ High Street Centre L3 (clarke quay/city hall), free
- DJ & Afrobeats Party: AFROGROOVE - Afro Club Night with JAC45 (ghana), DabishopOnDmix, DJ Al, Marie, Jag (Afrobeats, Amapiano, Hip-Hop/RnB & Reggaeton),Blu Jaz L2 @ bali ln (bugis), $20
- DJ Party, Moonstone: MOONSTONE’s 7th birthday bash - Secret Pals, bongomann, daryl knows, snooze, snooze, one braincell, Revision Music , Gahmen, Halia, Nez Senja, Moonstone BAR @ 103 Amoy St
- DJ, Fizzy (City) Pop Night at SG Taps with DJ Itch & Hiddy (Japanese city pop, asian boogie records), SG Taps Craft Beer Bar, Izakaya fusion @ 13 Duxton Hill, free bar
- DJ, Offtrack: CuCiCuCi (GER) & The Weatherman (jazz , house, broken beat), bs hong lim park, music gastro bar
- DJ, 🏖Manifest 5th Anniversary Pool Party - feat RPDM + Aman Anand + Raja Rani + Eli Rojas (Ibiza), 1-Altitude Coast at The Outpost Hotel Sentosa , $43
- DJ, Wallich Manor: DJ Shortkut (US) & Koflow (SG) - attn turntablist heads, Wallich Manor Lounge @ Sofitel City Centre Hotel L6 (tg pagar)
- DJ, 🏖 Tipsy Unicorn: MOJI (AU edm),@ 36 Siloso Bch Walk (Sentosa), $18
- DJ, MODAL Presents AMOTIK (GER techno) & ANSWER CODE REQUEST (GER idm ambient techno), MDLR pop-up club @ 62 cecil street (cbd), $34
31 Mar 2024, Sun - Easter Sunday, Singapore Poetry Month
truncated for word limit- Sunday Metal Service II - SUFFOCATION and GATECREEPER (both USA death metal) x DOLDREY (SG), Gr.ID Mall Selegie (bs SOTA dhoby, bencoolen) L5, $98
- Sakura Anime Garden Festival at Gardens by the Bay, I Love Anisong - Nano and Kitadani Hiroshi
- Warm up Concert: Tokimeki JUMP, AIJOU, Rae Atrista, Cosplay Competition, alt.titude, Dear Kiss (JP), supertree main stage supertree, free
- Wisma Geylang Serai / Bazaar: Zakhrafa,free
- FLAME OF THE FOREST Pupa: Music and Art Jam - multidisciplinary music concert and some chinese art-style workshop, EXP @ 340a Joo Chiat Rd, IG video📸 $20
- Singapore Poetry Writing Month: SingPoWriMo 2024: Opening Party Open Mic and Hangout ft Vivien Yap, SingLit Station @ 22 Dickson Road (jalan besar), free
- NUS Guitar Ensemble: NUS Guitar Ensemble presents Aventura, school of the arts (bencoolen, dhoby), $16
- NUS Jazz Band: Milestones: The 30th Anniversary of NUS Jazz Band, NUS university cultural centre, $20
- Miss Nee with Drag Qabaret Does Disney (musical theatre parody), Alchemy Bistro & Craft Beers @ 128 Prinsep Street, $30
- William Scorpion and the 黑天狼 (mando/cantopop) at The Mermaid Haw Par Villa, The Mermaid Bar & Restaurant @ 27 W Coast Hwy (bs. Haw Par Villa)
- Esplanade Music: Unbecoming by Mantravine (psychedelic, shamanic Carnatic tribal funk, jazz fusion, electro swing), outdoor,free
- Esplanade: TSMC Tunes by AEONA and Ying Ying (english and chinese-pop covers), indoor concourse,free
01 Apr 2024, Mon
- Esplanade Presents , Coffee Morning & Afternoon Tea Reminiscing Leslie Cheung 追忆张国荣 by Donnie Chan & Winnie Wong 陈国荣与黄慧妮, Esplanade Recital Studio, $18
- Esplanade: I Have A Dream, A Song to Sing by Cedar Girls’ Secondary School Choir, concourse, free
- Blu Jaz: Musical Theatre Open Mic Night , Blu Jaz @ bali ln (bugis), $15
02 Apr 2024, Tue
- Esplanade: Concord Primary School Choir , free
- Comic Improv: PowerPoint Karaoke Singapore , the Hive Carpenter @ 36 Carpenter St (clarke quay), $15
03 Apr 2024, Wed - Bruno Mars
- Bruno Mars Live in Singapore - 1 of 3, National Stadium, $108
- Esplanade: Songs that Saved my Life by Matthias (singer-songwriter, jazzy pop soul), free
- Esplanade: Ang Mo Kio Secondary School Concert Band , Concert Hall, $15
04 Apr 2024, Thu - Tomb-Sweeping Day(?)
- PUMA BLUE, SCAPE The Ground Theatre (somerset), $79
- Wisma Geylang Serai / Bazaar: Floor 88 ft mamat bora, free
- Esplanade Music: Chemistry of A Teenage Girl by Stage Fright (band, bedroom pop, rock), indoor concourse, setlist free
- NAFA: Concert Series: An Evening of Arias and Art Songs, Lee Foundation Theatre @ 151 Bencoolen St (bencoolen), free
- Club Lunar: Bruno Mars cover songs, Club Lunar (southeast asian club) @ Orchard Plaza L4, table
- DJ, TEMPEST ft Joshua Dillon, Hande JumboGoat XXL (hard dance techno), at Club Rich (lol) southeast asian club @ 114 middle rd (bugis), $38
- DJ, MOONSTONE: Jenn Chunes b2b Tashasan (uk garage, rnb, jungle, bass, asian pop), Moonstone BAR @ 103 Amoy St
05 Apr 2024, Fri
truncated for word limit- EVNNE, The Star Vista Theatre (buona vista), $138
- Bruno Mars - 2 of 3, National Stadium, $108
- Wisma Geylang Serai / Bazaar: OKLETSGO, , free
- Gemilang Kampong Gelam Bazaar: Nabila Huda 3 of 3, Baghdad Street Stage (bugis/nicoll highway)
- Phil Studio Anniversary: 1st Anniversary with Exfl Records - The Black Koes, Shuffle Squad, The Hooligans, Bad Idea, Cole's Law, Shananigans, Surprise Band, Phil's Studio @ High Street Centre L3 (clarke quay/city hall), $15
- Maduro Jazz: Soulful Standards & Swing with EJ Trio, maduro @ sofitel sentosa, $38++ drink credits
- Candlelight: Candlelight: Vivaldi's Four Seasons w Vocalise String Quartet, the arts house (old parliament city hall), $56
- YST Conservatory: (double) basses of spring, NUS Yong Siew Toh Conservatory, Orchestra Hall L3, free
- NAFA School of Music 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert, Victoria Concert Hall, $37
- The TENG Recital Series: Guzheng Music 溯•筝 Transcendence - 1 of 2, Mapletree Business City (labrador park), $10
- Esplanade: Benny’s (singer-songwriter, alt, folk), free
- Esplanade: Lights, Camera, Strings! by St. Margaret's School (Secondary) String Ensemble, free
- Esplanade Performing Arts x Tech Lab sharing: AI and storytelling - Kamini Ramachandran, sound artist Syafiq Halid and AI engineer Ernie Chen, annexe studio, free RSVP
- Esplanade Performing Arts x Tech Lab sharing: Verge 2.0 - interactive sound art with James Lye with with choreographer Dr. Amin Farid, annexe studio, free RSVP
- DJ, EMONIGHTSG: The B-Sides (alt rock, 2000s emo, pop punk guilty pleasures, hard rock cafe cuscaden (orchard), $22
- DJ, DUTTYWINE PARTY : CINCO - DJs Sristi, Lokies Khan, Ampsnd (reggaeton, moombahton, afrobeat), lgbt friendly, Projector X Golden Village Ruby Lounge @ Cineleisure Orchard L6,, $15
- DJ, UnfilteredPresents: One Night in Seoul (kpop), Projector X Golden Village No Spoilers Bar @ Cineleisure Orchard L5, $30 left
- DJ, Africa Parties x Saint Ben - Feel Africa: BLAZIN' , Mortar & Pestle rooftop bar @ 269 South Bridge Rd, $20
- DJ, Offtrack: Bongomann (house, jazzy atmospheric electronica), bs hong lim park, music gastro bar
- DJ, Capasso Restaurant: Capasso Friday by Party Social - hiphop rnb pop, CAPASSO Italian @ 92 Telok Ayer St, , free,
- DJ, Temple Cellars: Bring Your Own Vinyl Night, liquor store wine bar @ 31 Binjai Park (king albert park), free
- DJ, Marquee: Wonderland, marquee nightclub @ marina bay sands shoppes, from $20
- DJ, HighHouse: Aldrin & David Carollo, High House Lounge @ 1 Raffles Place Roof (old 1-altitude), $38
- DJ, Highh Club: DJ NICOLE CHEN ft gainzter, shai tmo, Highh Club Party @ Pan Pacific Hotel, 7 raffles blvd (old bang bang - esplanade, promenade)
- DJ, Ark11: DJ JADE RASIF for The Shop pre-party, ARK 11 Club @ Orchard Central Mall L11
- DJ, Ce La Vi: Singapore William Djoko (NED house techno), marina bay sands hotel rooftop bar-club, $38
- DJ, Tuff: DEETRON (SUI techno-funk) ft Stephen Day, Vix pres by Solid Ground x Midnight Shift, tuff club @ 138 robinson rd cbd, $35
- DJ, Groovetop presents S!RENE (NED Afro, Funk, Amapiano, Hip Hop, R&B), MDLR club @ 62 cecil street (cbd), $40
- DJ, HQ: All Night Long with BAMBOUNOU (FRA techno idm tribal), headquarters techno-house club @ 66A boat quay, $36
06 Apr 2024, Sat
- ITZY, Indoor Stadium, $168
- NICKTHEREAL 周湯豪, capitol theatre city hall, $108
- Bruno Mars Live in Singapore - 3 of 3, National Stadium, $108
- DJ, Official Bruno Mars Afterparty: he will be hanging out at Marquee, marquee nightclub @ marina bay sands shoppes, $150
- Blind Equation (US cybergrind) & Your Arms Are My Cocoon (US midwest emo, indie folk w screamo) - ft Cayenne of Sobs, Anjing, Internet Love Scam, Microchip, Terror, Spider, heavy music band and electronic gig, lion studios @ 115B Commonwealth Dr, 2F, IG 📸 $38
- Wisma Geylang Serai / Bazaar: Imran Ajmain, DOLLA, Bazaar Raya Fashion Show, , free
- Phil Studio: presents Jam and Cheese - Live music and cold cuts - ft the temporaries, Forty Two, Waiting for players, Cronkite Satellite, Phil's Studio @ High Street Centre L3 (clarke quay/city hall), $25
- Jazz Loft: The Joey van Leeuwen Organ Trio - 2 of 2,Blu Jaz @ bali ln (bugis), $24
- Candlelight: From Bach to The Beatles w Vocalise String Quartet, the arts house (old parliament city hall), $56
- Candlelight: Best of Hans Zimmer 2 w Vocalise String Quartet, the arts house (old parliament city hall), $81
- The TENG Recital Series: Guzheng Music 溯•筝 Transcendence - 2 of 2, SCCC Auditorium @ 1 Straits Blvd (shenton way), IG 📸 $10
- ESPLANADE: EN TUS CUERDAS - flamenco dance and guitar - ft Luisa Palicio, Jesús Rodriguez, Jesús Corbacho, Recital Studio, $68
- ESPLANADE SSO Gala: OLGA PERETYATKO – A Night at the Opera w Singapore Symphony Orchestra ft Mikhail Agrest , Esplanade Concert Hall, $25
- Piano Recital: Zoltán Fejérvári pres by Altenberg Arts, Victoria Concert Hall, IG 📸 $25
- ESPLANADE: CHONG FENG 18TH REUNION CONCERT - 重逢18 演唱会 (G) - ft. Zhao Yonghua 赵咏华, Yu Taiyan 于台烟, and Ye Huan 叶欢 - Taiwan x Singapore - ft. 施孝荣, 黎沸挥，苏心荃, TCR Accapella, Esplanade Theatre, $88
- Esplanade: Controller X Big Screen by JDN Party Quest and Friends (chamber ensemble) - gaming classics and anime cinema, outdoor theatre IG 📸 free
- Esplanade: Soulful Serenade by Sarah Syazlina, indoor concourse, free
- Esplanade Theatre: #TellStory by How Drama - anglican high & cedar girls, indoor concourse, free
- ESPLANADE Performing Arts x Tech Lab Industry sharing: DOTS 2.0 - Childrens Theatre with Five Stones Theatre, Annexe Studio, free rsvp
- ESPLANADE Performing Arts x Tech Lab Industry sharing: Dancing the Algorithm (DatA) - with Dapheny Chen & SERIAL CO_, Annexe Studio, free rsvp
- Tamil Language Fest: Bharatanatyam on Kambaramayana & Arunachala Kavirayar's Ramanatakam, SIFAS Annexe, $32,
- Tamil Theatre Pugalenthii’s Silapathikaram by Athipathi International Theatre - 2 of 2, The Grassroots’ Club @ 190 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8 , $30
- Downtown Live House @ Funan: rated phigie, dnyl crso, nimrod adventures, bibiboizz, gonedown, Funan Mall (city hall) @ 107 North Bridge Rd (facing fire station), free/table
- Blackbird: The Man Child (90s acoustic grunge and alternative rock) and later Reverie and also ft Vijay the DJ, Blackbird Music Bar @ Gillman Barracks (labrador park), free/table
- Timbre+ One North Singapore Originals - Maneloren, music food court/beer garden @ 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent (one-north), free/table
- DJ, Songkran Singapore ft DJ Nicole Chen, Titus Low, Rick Svage, Shuhandz (US), Tom Price (CN), MC Damon (SG), Sofitel City Centre Rooftop Pool (tanjong pagar),$16
- DJ, THE ADULTS ARE DANCING - DJ Lincey x Fantastic Dinosaur, Wallich Manor Lounge @ Sofitel City Centre Hotel L6 (tg pagar), $30
- DJ, Moonstone: eatmePOPTART: The Kids are Alright - the unapologetic pop night - ft weelikeme & YAFTH (80s pop, indie rock, electronica, hip hop, sad sh), Moonstone BAR @ 103 Amoy St, free/table
- DJ, No Sleep Club (Cocktail Bar): Upstairs and Downstairs Party! DJs Aalely, Yetpet, Kindergarchy, Vinylheavy x DJ Itch (Heavyitch) downstairs, 20 keong saik road (maxwell)
- DJ, Foxtail 3rd Anniversary ft DJs Mari, Manilajunkie, Knrck, Mortar & Pestle rooftop bar @ 269 South Bridge Rd, free
- DJ, Vertigo 26: Teenagepop: A nite of britpop, shoegaze, indie, punk, grunge, pop, listening bar @ MINT Museum City Hall 26 Seah St, free/bar
- DJ, Offtrack: Daryl Knows x Leland (house, jazzy disco), bs hong lim park, music gastro bar
- DJ, Naga House: Naga Bites ft Tunes by DJ Kins + Special Guests, Naga House Bar @ 14 Lor Telok (boat quay)
- DJ, 🏖 BYOT - Bring Your Own Trunks ft DJ Abraham Neri, Akito, Thomas , gay event, Mondrian Singapore Duxton hotel @ 16A Duxton Hill, $40
- Club Hell: Throwback in Hell, gay lgbt club @ 113 telok ayer st, $30
- Drag: RIOT! CLASH, hard rock cafe cuscaden (orchard), $25
- DJ, Two Queens Asia - Stay Gold w DJ Candice B (00s hits), lgbt, bar nkd @ 95 club st
- LGBT DJ Party: MisMatch x FomoHomo - MISS HOMO – Birthday Bukkacakes, MDLR club @ 62 cecil street (cbd), $40
- DJ, OneCrew Presents: SOUTH SPICE! (indian music party), DDD Bar @ 63 Kampong Bahru Rd (spottiswoode, outram), ~$35
- DJ, CIEL SSV6 Presents Corona Sunset Sessions Feat. TOTEM (Bali) - DJs STAY GOLDEN, JOSÉ and Siggi- also ft CIEL residents HALIS, Andre Marc, Chirag K, Sand Bar 🏖 @ 53 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa, $32
- DJ, Tipsy Unicorn Beach Club: Official pre-party for The XChange Road to Siam Songkran Music Festival - ft DJ Ezra Hazard ,Tipsy Unicorn Beach Club 🏖 @ 36 Siloso Bch Walk (Sentosa)
- DJ, HighHouse: Zushan & Faz (house techno progressive), High House Lounge @ 1 Raffles Place Roof (old 1-altitude), $38
- DJ, ARK11: It's the Ship Pre-party with Hanif, Miggy T, Nicole Lim, ARK 11 Club @ Orchard Central Mall L11
- DJ, Highh Party Singapore: Highh BPM ft DJ KAEIZ, Highh Club @ Pan Pacific Hotel, 7 raffles blvd (old bang bang - esplanade, promenade), $37
- DJ, Zouk: Phuture - Slime Hip Hop Battle Night, Capital Lounge - Poparazzi, Mainroom - One dance, zouk club clarke quay
- DJ, PANGAEA (UK bass, techno house, garage, dubstep), headquarters techno-house club @ 66A boat quay, $36
07 Apr 2024, Sun
- Music Travel Love《Covering The World》Asia Tour 2024 Feat. Dave Moffatt from The Moffatts, Suntec City Convention Hall 406, $138
- SILENT SANCTUARY (PH rock) ft downtown alive & jepp, Timbre+ One North @ 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent (one-north), IG 📸 $50
- Flamenco Show: TABLAO FLAMENCO by Flamenco Sin Fronteras - ft guitarist Jesus Rodriguez & singer Jesus Corbacho (ESP), Flamenco Sin Fronteras @ 1 Lorong 24A Geylang
- Choral Workshops etc: The SSC Affair - Singapore Symphony Chorus, Victoria Concert Hall, $100
- NUS Wind Symphony: InTempo 2024: Triumphs of the Human Spirit, NUS university cultural centre, $10
- Wisma Geylang Serai / Bazaar: 1965 Geylang Seriai Beraya, NAQIU, DWI AISHA, A'ARTSG, KIRANAN SENI, ORKES ENGKY AMAN, , free
- Esplanade Beautiful Sunday: Classics to Modern; A Musical Expedition by Sembawang Wind Orchestra, Concert Hall free reg
- Esplanade: WHYLUCAS , indoor concourse 545 645, free
- Esplanade: Novo Winds (Youth wind ensemble) , outdoor 7pm 8pm.free
- The Quiet Space - Music and imagery (Workshop) of Guided Imagery and Music (GIM), Gillman Barracks @ 5 Lock Rd (labrador park), $15
- Chinese Children Drama: The Prince and The Pauper , 华语儿童剧 《王子与 乞丐》- 2 of 2, Victoria Concert Hall, $35
- LAST: Matilda The Musical, Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands, $68
- DJ & Live , Tipsy Unicorn: Kohsh and live band, Beach Club 🏖 @ 36 Siloso Bch Walk, Sentosa
- DJ, Tanjong Beach Club: Yujin, Beach Club 🏖 @ 120 Tanjong Beach Walk, Sentosa
Events
- 2-14 Apr: Taha : Tribute to Palestinian poet Taha Muhammad Ali by Singapore Repertory Theatre, KC Arts Centre @ 20 Merbau Rd (robertson quay), $45
- 4-28 Apr: Theatre Tartuffe: The Imposter by Wild Rice, The Ngee Ann Kongsi Theatre @ Wild Rice, Funan (city hall), $35
- Till 7 Apr: Matilda The Musical, Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands, $68
- Sentosa Market Hall (Siloso Point) Movie screening every weekend, Harry Potter, free
- 21 Apr: Puppetry Workshop Puppets Alive! Rod Puppetry by The Finger Players 《偶趣味！》十指帮仗头偶工作坊 , The Artground @ OHV (holland village), $10
- Apr 10-14: Theatre: The Last Gardener 《身后的微光》, 54 Waterloo Street (bras basah), $34
- Till Apr 14: Dance workshops: da:ns focus – EveryBody Workshops (Adults & Kids), or (Adults & Youth), or (Adults & Preschoolers), Esplanade Rehearsal Studio, $20
- Till 30th Apr Water Park: Wild Wild Wet Songkran Kids Festival ft DJ Joeru, 1 Pasir Ris Cl, from $29
Newly Open
- Music Movie: Ryuichi Sakamoto's Opus, the projector exclusive
- others: Amy Winehouse Back to Black (opens Apr 11), Bob Marley One Love, The Color Purple, Perfect Days
- Universal Studios Singapore: Naruto the Gallery - till 30th Jun, resorts world sentosa
- Till 21 Apr: Sakura Festival at Gardens by the Bay
Ramadan Bazaars
- Till 6 Apr: Food Bazaar, Month-long events @ GEMILANG KAMPONG GELAM, @ Kampong Gelam (bugis/nicoll highway) or GEYLANG SERAI Bazaar, @ Wisma Geylang Serai (paya lebar)
- OH! Kampong Gelam Art Walk in Singapore, @ Kampong Gelam (bugis/nicoll highway), IG 📸 $35
08 Apr 2024, Mon
- Esplanade: Yunie Karim , free
- Esplanade: NUS PIANO ENSEMBLE - Touch, recital studio, $20
- Wisma Geylang Serai / Bazaar: Geylanggang raya, geylang serai cc bazaar (paya lebar), free
09 Apr 2024, Tue - Hari Raya Eve
- Esplanade: More Demonic and Divine by Kenneth Hamilton (scottish pianist plays chopin & liszt), Recital Studio, $22
- Esplanade: Eunoia Junior College Choir , Concert Hall, $15
- Esplanade: Lyla Ng (once singapore's youngest busker, english & chinese covers and originals), free
- YST: Bach Cantata Series x Red Dot Baroque x Orchestral Institute: Kommt, Eilet und Laufet! , NUS Yong Siew Toh Conservatory, Concert Hall L1, tix 🎟 $10
- NAFA: NAFA Vocal Competition 2023/2024 Finals, NAFA Lee Foundation Theatre @ 151 Bencoolen St (bencoolen), free
- Community Song Circle: Harmony and Joy, Co. @ Duxton (maxwell), $28
- Wisma Geylang Serai / Bazaar: Takbiran, wisma geylang serai cc bazaar (paya lebar) , free
- Cool Cats Jazz: The Blues Revue with Joey van Leeuwen, nco club @ 32 beach rd (esplanade), $20
- Live & DJ, Level Up: A night of all things Bruno Mars - w Ready player one ft Allie & DJ Kohsh, Level Up Arcade & Live Music Bar @ Clarke Quay
- DJ, ARK 11: GLHF ORIENTAL RAVE ft. DJ Kasho & Miggy T, DJ Evie - mandopop Kpop Jpop, ARK 11 Club @ Orchard Central Mall L11, $20
- DJ, Highh Club: New Nakhra:Whiteout (AfroDesi) ft Shahan DJ K2, SWTLKR, Bigdbangla, Highh Party @ Pan Pacific Hotel, 7 raffles blvd (esplanade, promenade), tix 🎟 $35
- DJ, Shiv Kambdar pres. Bollywood Throwback from 00s 10s 20s, Cherry Disco @ 133 cecil st (cbd), tix 🎟 $35
- DJ, BOLLYWOOD CLUB - India’s Favourite DJ Suketu, hard rock cafe cuscaden (orchard), tix 🎟 ~$45
- DJ, Club Hell: Gym in Hell, gay lgbt club @ 113 telok ayer st
- DJ, Zouk: DJ Wukong (oriental rave, hard dance). zouk club clarke quay, $45
- DJ, Marquee: Marquee 5th Anniversary presents Odyssey: Mixtape Rewind with DJ Vice (US hiphoppy), marquee nightclub @ marina bay sands shoppes, $30 to free ladies
- DJ, Thugshop Presents - ROMAN FLÜGEL (GER deep techno house) ft Leland & Daytime Dancing ,tuff club @ 138 robinson rd cbd, $36
- DJ, Pleasures of Anomaly - DJs Lawrence Lee (GER techno), Yetpet, FAUXE, cyda, DONN, club iki @ ikigai izakaya riverwalk (clarke quay), IG 📸 $32
10 Apr 2024, Wed - Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al Fitr)
- King Gnu, The Star Vista Theatre (buona vista), $88
- Esplanade: Swan Lake 《天鹅 湖》苏州芭蕾舞团经典芭蕾舞剧 by Suzhou Ballet Theatre, $50
- Esplanade: An Evening with Vanako (jazz pop, synthpop), indoor concourse free
- Esplanade: Owen Li (island voices, r&b pop) , outdoor theatre, IG 📸 free
- Maestro Douglas Bostock Conducting Masterclass
- JCS Spring Recital 2024: 和音の色, 112 Middle Rd Midland House, free, Celebrating spring with a myriad of Japanese tunes
- Jazz Loft: Sinclair Ang & His Rhythmakers (Hari Raya Tea Dance Edition, Blu Jaz L3 @ bali ln (bugis), $24
- Cool Cats Jazz: The Jazz Sessions: Amanda Lee Swingtet , nco club @ 32 beach rd (esplanade), $20
- Skyline Songs - Open Mic Session with Vocal Coaching by Darius Lim of Voices of Singapore, High Street Centre L24 (clarke quay, city hall), free
- DJ, Cherry: Ladies Night Ft. NUS KR Hall , 133 cecil st (cbd),
11 Apr 2024, Thu
- Animenz World Tour (the anime piano arranger), Esplanade Concert Hall, $88
- Esplanade: Viva Violin! - Violin - Low Peng Guan, Giselle Ang Zi Qi, Teia Lee, Aidan James Kwek, Piano - Khor Shang Jin, indoor concourse, free
- NAFA: Concert Series: NAFA Chorus - Mendelssohn, Brahms, Schubert, Pärt, Takemitsu and Chen Yi , NAFA Lee Foundation Theatre @ 151 bencoolen st (bencoolen), free,
- YST Conservatory: Expert Interpreter Recital: Carolin Ralser, NUS Yong Siew Toh Conservatory ensemble room 2 (kent ridge, free
- SHELF SESSIONS: Live Music featuring The Jukuleles, Mad & Midas Cocktail Bar @ 39 Ann Siang Hill (maxwell), free
- NLB: Tony and Friends - Open Stage Originals (piano er hu), National Library Building, Level 1, Lobby, free, Don't miss out on our next OSO session!
- * Timbre One North: Mid-Week R&B with Polyphonix, music food court/beer garden @ 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent (one-north), free
- DJ, Midweek Blues @ Phil's Studio, Phil's Studio @ High Street Centre L3 (clarke quay/city hall), $15
- NUS Theatre: The Vault: The TRUE Awards - a performance responding to Lim Chor Pee's "A White Rose at Midnight", Black Box @ 42 Waterloo Street, $32
- DJ, Offtrack: Moss (house disco breaks), bs hong lim park, music gastro bar
2024.03.17 20:40 WhiteSolarWind Accessory dwelling project recommendations
Looking for recommendations. If you’ve worked with someone that may be a good fit for this project, please give them some love by dropping their link in the comments. I’m looking to transform a small 5 year old garage into an ADU for long term rental to help cover high mortgage costs. Current building is 12x16 w/8x12 loft. 4x12 addition where existing garage door is. Power in place, water to be brought 40ft from main house. Sewer will be accessed under new addition 4x12 slab poured(existing driveway concrete to be cut). Architectural plans are complete. Permitting in process. Flexible, but ideally would like the infrastructure and exterior work completed in October 2024. I’d like a GC, but subs to get the water in/sewer out and concrete cut/poured would be a great start as well. Thoughts?
submitted by WhiteSolarWind to Bozeman [link] [comments]
2024.03.16 03:20 TripleStuftOreo There's an iron door in my family's bunker, and something horrid waits behind it. (2)
[Part 1]
Hello again, I know it’s been some time since I posted about the door in the vault. I hoped to update sooner, but there were reasons that I couldn’t. Following the ordeal, it seems like everything in my life was watched. By doctors, by police, and even some government agent types that I’d never heard of. I spent some time in an evaluation ward due to my findings and following that I didn’t want to look back on the events of that night anymore. But now, years later, I’m ready to talk about what happened that night. I apologize for making you wait, so allow me to get into it.
Looking back at it, I should’ve known one weekend wouldn’t be enough time to confront that thing. The whole ordeal lasted just over three weeks, luckily for my family’s sake, the beast itself was taken care of before they got back. The involvement of others in my life and understanding the thing however, was not, and I imagine it still isn’t.
That night, that horrid night, I prepared some supplies as a precaution. A first aid kit, rope, spare ammunition for my great grandfather’s shotgun, water, and anything else I could imagine needing. I crept downstairs, hearing those excruciated groans as always. I made my way up to the door as I always did, quietly and sparing no caution. I pressed my ear to the door, but this time, it knew. It felt me on the other side of the door. However, it was not enraged. It seemed just as curious as I was. I should’ve known it was tricking me. I devised a plan to remotely open the door using a length of rope and some other supplies. This was so that when the door became unlocked, and the thing was set free, I would already be halfway up the stairs.
After setting everything up, I was ready. It was 12:30am. I was on the brink of obtaining the knowledge I’d wished to gain for over fifteen years. I sat for a while, afraid. But when it all came down to it, my mind had been made. So I pulled the rope and unleashed the thing. At first, it seemed as though it had no intention of leaving, but soon, I heard heavy steps and a slick sliding noise. I could hear it breathing, sniffing it’s surroundings. Then it picked up on something. It picked up on me. The thing howled in rage, and its stomping approached the stairs at a pace I can only describe as impossible. I didn’t bother waiting to see the thing then. I ran up the stairs and out into the grand living room, where I hoped to have enough space to take the thing out. Its steps followed mine by less than a second, I dared not look back. As I got into the living room, I whipped around to shoot at the beast.
I had no idea what I’d gotten myself into. This thing wasn’t human, or even anything earthly at all. This was a being sent from hell, crawling on two dominant arms, followed by a long tail; I can’t imagine it being any less than twelve feet long as a whole. It’s face, not something describable, no words can be strung together to accurately describe the horror that was its face. Nor could one believe there was any god that would allow this thing to exist.
I was so frozen with fear I didn’t even raise the gun. By the time I even could have, the beast was already on me. It swatted at me, bearing deep claw-marks into my side and slinging me an impossible distance. Had it not been for the adrenaline, I would have been entirely crippled for some time. But my entire body was firing in an effort to survive. As soon as I had hit the ground, I was already up, shotgun back in hand, and running faster than I ever had. Before I ran though, I got a very lousy shot in on the thing. The same shot would’ve killed nearly anything, but it only angered the beast, and bruised my shoulder. Regardless, it gave me time to run faster than I knew I was capable of.
I ran out the door, dashed off the porch, and went out to the shed to hide and call authorities. I knew it would be soon to follow, and I knew that it would be more than capable of breaching the shed. I hoped that it wouldn’t immediately know that’s where I went though. It would give me just enough time to call the police or anyone that could help. When I got to the shed and slammed the door behind me, I could hear it already leaving the house on the hunt for me. But I quickly tore my phone from my pocket, and called 911. (props to me for having the number up before I opened the door). They seemed like they thought I was joking, but I didn't care. Now that I’d called, they had to send someone. Now this was a game of survival.
Like I’ve said, I live in the middle of BFE, so I knew they’d take some time to get there. But I believed I could evade the thing until they arrived. I was only barely right. As I’d expected, it quickly came barreling out of the door leading from outside into that massive living room. It didnt know where I went at first it seemed. It paced around, sniffing and making a low, gravelly gurgle. Sooner than I’d hoped, it picked up my scent. With the same impossible speed as before, I heard its powerful stomps lead their way to the wooden shack that I’d made my hideaway. It slowed once it reached the shed, sniffing around, making all kinds of horrible noises. My grandfather built this shed when I was young. He used it for all sorts of projects. From fixing old cars, to replacing parts of our lawnmower, this is where he came. It’s also where my love for auto mechanics began. The little timber and plywood shed made a part of who I am, so watching that beast tear through a wall as if it were as flimsy as paper made my stomach churn.
As the thing tore through the wall it sent splinters of wood and many of the tools laying about all over the place. A pair of pliers laying on what used to be a workbench behind the wall that was now a hole flew at me like a bullet, barely missing and leaving me with a small gash in my shoulder. Luckily the thing’s impact staggered it to an extent. I jumped out from behind my flimsy cover, already starting to sprint for a new way to evade the beast. The corn field. It was perfect; I could remain out of sight of the thing and still be able to fire at it. I sprinted towards the tall plants as fast as my legs could carry me, and the beast was not far behind now that it had recuperated.
Once I was in the field I hung a hard right, hoping that the thing might think I continued straight. To my surprise, it worked. Less than two seconds behind me it entered the field and rushed forward about thirty feet. Because of its size, I was able to get a good approximation for its location in the tall cornfield because of the sound and dispersed foliage. I shot twice as quickly as I could with the shotgun. Its shrill cry rang through the night air. I knew that I’d hurt it pretty bad. But by some wonder, it only seemed to grow angrier and more desperate to finish me off. It darted towards me at an even more unthinkable pace. Leaping towards me and slashing with its muscular, taloned arms, it cut across my ribs, tearing my shirt and leaving deep gashes in my chest. The pain was staggering. Like something I’d never experienced. Three lines across my chest; about five inches long and almost an inch deep. Despite my pain, I knew I had to do something to survive, and quickly. Already running from my vicious foe, I had to make a plan to get enough time to wrap something around my ribs. At this rate of blood loss, I knew I had only a little bit of time before I wouldn’t be able to run, or for that matter, survive. I did the only thing I thought I could to distract it. The coop.
We had eighteen hens, all egg laying. They provided many breakfasts for me and my family, and even some extra cash from the neighbors when I was young. I ran to it, desperately hoping that the hens would be enough to throw the beast off my trail long enough for me to clean myself up. When I reached the coop, I went through the front door and ran out the back frame made for the chickens. Despite being made for chickens it was roughly a three foot by three foot square hole, so I only had to briefly crouch to continue running. As I ran out the other side, the beast barreled through the front door frame, tearing off some shrapnel from the sides of the frame. As expected, he noticed the chickens and immediately went for them. From what I heard behind me as I ran, I imagined it swept them up one by one with its powerful arms, only to consume them whole in one or two vicious chomps. The hen’s sacrifice wouldn’t go unforgotten. They gave me enough time to run to the barn to bandage myself and ready my next plan of action.
As I made my way into the large barn, I immediately cut a piece from my pants and bandaged my wounded chest. It had maybe been a minute and a half since I was wounded but I was already feeling weaker than before. I wrapped my chest tight and many times over, so that no more blood would escape my body. As I finished, I pulled my phone from my pocket. It was already nearly 1:30. I couldn’t tell you how, but being in this things presence genuinely sped time up. To this day, I have no explanation for how something like that could work. Luckily for me, that meant the cops would arrive soon, and if I was even luckier, there would be more than one car. For now though, I had to prepare the next part of my impromptu plan. The shotgun obviously only angered the thing. So, I left it in the barn, half loaded. I ran to the wall of tools on the back side of the barn, and grabbed a hay fork. If bullets didn’t work, maybe I could drive something through the heart of this beast. I’d heard many stories of iron being a repellent or weapon against the supernatural. I had to take my chances and hope this would work. As I grabbed the fork, I heard the thing take in a deep, haggardly sniff. It was done with the chickens, and now it wanted its primary target, me.
Before it could reach me, I had to find a vantage point from which to pierce it safely. Immediately I went for the loft. Regardless of how it came up, I could stab it in it’s transition from ground to loft. I heard it run from the coop to the barn as soon as it caught my scent. It ran through the giant barn door following my exact trail to the back wall and then around. It looked up the ladder and then around the edge of the loft. Then it saw me. It snarled and let out a screechy, chittering growl noise. It propelled itself straight up from the ground to the loft (surprisingly not smashing through the wood) with its massive arms and a slight flick from its long tail. Seeing I had a weapon between me and it, the beast circled me like a cat. It flicked its tail at me, making me realize that even its tail was weaponized. It had a spike at the end of its tail with a line of serration on the top side. I plunged the fork forward instinctively and got one of the outer prongs to leave a relatively deep scratch on its tail. In turn, its attack was barely deflected and swept past my right thigh, leaving me with yet another gash, though not quite as deep. The laceration burned awfully. When I looked up however, it seemed my foe was in an equal amount of pain. The cut on its tail had singed up and was giving off slight smoke. I had gambled right. The iron fork had an effect on the beast.
I threw the fork down from the loft and jumped soon after it and rolled as I hit the ground. Don’t get me wrong, this did not feel great. It was a solid ten feet to the loft, but the alternative of trying to get to the ladder was likely a death sentence. I rushed out of the barn and back towards the house beast still pursuing closely. That’s when I heard it, sirens. Two police cruisers had arrived, both with two officers per car. I rushed into the house to try and evade the beast and give me time to explain the situation to the officers. As I bobbed and weaved among the farmhouse’s many doors and intricacies my grandfather had made, I felt myself getting weaker and almost drowsy.
“Did that stinger pack venom?” I muttered under shaky breaths.
“Not now!” I yelled to myself, as I rushed through the house with the beast only 10 feet behind me.
Then, I had an idea. In the kitchen there was a gap in the wall that saw into the living room. If I could duck down behind that window after jumping through, the thing might think I continued forward. Despite it being a huge gamble with my life, it was gaining on me quickly, and I had to make a choice. I ran to the kitchen, the beast’s violent stomps only a foot or so behind me at this point. As I reached the counter with the window over it, I quickly vaulted the counter and made a sharp turn to the right around the wall and then ducked down. Not a second later, the beast barreled through the gap tearing away some of the frame and bore a hard right and rushed down the hallway. I used my opportunity and quietly, yet hurriedly, exited the house. I could hear it still clattering around in the house. My scent was engraved in that house, so tracking me by scent out of it would be a near impossible task. As I came out of the house, hay fork still in hand, I rushed to meet the officers. As I approached, they raised their guns.
“No, no, no,” I said. “I live here, there’s some kind of monster here.”
“I’m sorry, what?” the officer closest to me said bluntly.
A shrill cry retched out from inside the house, spooking all the officers and painting a scared look on their faces.
“Bullets won’t do anything to it. You need something iron.” I told them with urgency.
“Even if I believed this crap, I wouldn’t chose some iron too-”
Just then, the beast leaped through a window on the second floor, tearing a hole in the wall around it.
Once they saw the nightmare, they immediately raised their guns to shoot and began firing. The shots rang loud in my ears, but the shrill, angry cry of the beast fought the sound in the air. The beast charged towards us, angrier than ever. As the cops continued firing, I raised my fork to defend myself. Much to my surprise the beast entirely dodged me and went for the cop on my left. It slung itself at the officer with great speed and tackled him to the ground, quickly swiping at his face and plunging its tail through his body armor and into his chest. He was dead in an instant. While it was still tearing into what was now a corpse, I took another jab at the beast. It stuck through its side and ran deep into what I imagine was its stomach region. The beast howled in pain and snapped his head in my direction. The cop behind me quickly swooped in to aid with a crowbar. The back end of the crowbar ran into its skull, staggering the beast back and onto its side.
“Thank you,” I said, “you saved my life.”
“Not yet I haven’t,” The man said gruffly, pointing towards the thing.
The beast stood up, a gash in the side of his face showing bone, and four pronged stab wounds in its side. Now we were making progress. The other two remaining cops dug through the police cruisers for anything iron while the other officer and I threatened and prodded at the beast to keep it off of us. One officer found a wrench and the other a piece of rebar with a jagged end.
“Backup is on the way,” the officer with the wrench said.
“Good,” I replied.
We moved our way in on the beast. Now, we were on the attack, or so I thought. The beast stood on guard. Ready to fend back any attack we may send his way with its tail. Instinctively, the officers began to surround it. I followed suit. As we pushed closer in circular formation, we prepared to attack. Suddenly, the beast swept its tail in a circle and swiped us off our feet one by one, and then rammed its tail through the leg of the officer with the wrench. However, this time, the serration wouldn’t allow the beast to rip its spear-ended tail out of the man’s leg. So, instead, it took the officer with it. It slung the officer to and fro and against the ground. The officer’s screams were something I’ll never forget. And then suddenly, a loud crack, and the screaming stopped. The officer’s head was barely held onto his neck, and the beast had freed its tail from the officer’s leg. While I was on my back, dreary weakness pulled into trying to sleep. I was so tired. I knew I was worn out, but with this adrenaline I should be the furthest thing from sleepy. I looked down at the gash in my leg as I stood up.
“Shit,” I muttered.
The officer with the crowbar noticed this and said, “What’s that?” pointing to my wound.
“Its tail, it has some kind of venom in it,” I told him with fear, “Its a sedative, I think.”
“Crap,” the same officer yelled as the beast made way for the other officer with the rebar.
The officer with the rebar was already up and running for his life. It was an effort in vain. The beast quickly caught up and tore through his chest. As it did, the officer jammed the rebar through the beast’s torso. Missing its heart by what had to be only inches and stabbing through a lung. It wheezed deeply, chittering noises released as it exhaled. It was going to die now either way, and it knew that, and even worse it was mad about that. Rebar still lodged in it’s chest, it finished tearing into the officers body. I shiver to think what was going through his head in his last moments.
Now it was just me and the officer with the crowbar left. Luckily, the beast was slowly suffocating, but that wouldn’t be enough for us both to survive. The beast shrieked out in a mixture of pain and rage. I held my pitchfork high, expecting a rampant attack. The officer held out the crowbar in a batters stance. Neither of us knew what would happen next, but we both were praying to god that we’d make it out.
“My name’s Davie,” the officer said in a whimper.
“Xander,” I shouted back.
“Xander, if I don’t make it, ask the folks at the office to tell my wife I love her.”
The beast turned to face us, and promptly rared back.
“I won’t have to, we’re both gonna to make it!” I shouted back. “Take this!”
I tossed the pitchfork to him and he dropped the crowbar and caught the fork in one clean motion.
“I’m gonna run, grab it’s attention. Once it’s following me, I want you to charge it. Stab it right in the heart. You ready?” I said.
“What!? No wait…” was all he managed to get out before I booked it.
The beast quickly followed and was soon to pass him. Then, it hit me. My vision blurred, my head spun, and within an instant, I had passed out. When I awoke, I was in a hospital room surrounded by agents ready to ask questions. It wasn’t until Officer Davie came into the room and cleared them out that I got some room to think.
“W-what happened?” I asked him.
“I did what you told me to,” Davie said bluntly.
“And it worked?” I said shocked.
“Well yeah,” he said “sent the thing squirming like a poked pig, then he fell over and faded out. You knew your plan would work right?”
“Yeah, of course,” I said, lying through my teeth.
Apparently those agents had collected the body of the thing and shipped it off for testing. They’ve periodically reached out to pester me with more questions since it happened. The more they do, the less I’ve told them. They made me sign an NDA when it first happened, but ehh f**k it. My family knows a different telling of the story, which I didn't like, but it kept them off my back about it so I went with it. For the most part, that’s where the story ends. But I swear, to this day, I hear those same chittering breaths before I fall asleep.
submitted by TripleStuftOreo to u/TripleStuftOreo [link] [comments]
Hello again, I know it’s been some time since I posted about the door in the vault. I hoped to update sooner, but there were reasons that I couldn’t. Following the ordeal, it seems like everything in my life was watched. By doctors, by police, and even some government agent types that I’d never heard of. I spent some time in an evaluation ward due to my findings and following that I didn’t want to look back on the events of that night anymore. But now, years later, I’m ready to talk about what happened that night. I apologize for making you wait, so allow me to get into it.
Looking back at it, I should’ve known one weekend wouldn’t be enough time to confront that thing. The whole ordeal lasted just over three weeks, luckily for my family’s sake, the beast itself was taken care of before they got back. The involvement of others in my life and understanding the thing however, was not, and I imagine it still isn’t.
That night, that horrid night, I prepared some supplies as a precaution. A first aid kit, rope, spare ammunition for my great grandfather’s shotgun, water, and anything else I could imagine needing. I crept downstairs, hearing those excruciated groans as always. I made my way up to the door as I always did, quietly and sparing no caution. I pressed my ear to the door, but this time, it knew. It felt me on the other side of the door. However, it was not enraged. It seemed just as curious as I was. I should’ve known it was tricking me. I devised a plan to remotely open the door using a length of rope and some other supplies. This was so that when the door became unlocked, and the thing was set free, I would already be halfway up the stairs.
After setting everything up, I was ready. It was 12:30am. I was on the brink of obtaining the knowledge I’d wished to gain for over fifteen years. I sat for a while, afraid. But when it all came down to it, my mind had been made. So I pulled the rope and unleashed the thing. At first, it seemed as though it had no intention of leaving, but soon, I heard heavy steps and a slick sliding noise. I could hear it breathing, sniffing it’s surroundings. Then it picked up on something. It picked up on me. The thing howled in rage, and its stomping approached the stairs at a pace I can only describe as impossible. I didn’t bother waiting to see the thing then. I ran up the stairs and out into the grand living room, where I hoped to have enough space to take the thing out. Its steps followed mine by less than a second, I dared not look back. As I got into the living room, I whipped around to shoot at the beast.
I had no idea what I’d gotten myself into. This thing wasn’t human, or even anything earthly at all. This was a being sent from hell, crawling on two dominant arms, followed by a long tail; I can’t imagine it being any less than twelve feet long as a whole. It’s face, not something describable, no words can be strung together to accurately describe the horror that was its face. Nor could one believe there was any god that would allow this thing to exist.
I was so frozen with fear I didn’t even raise the gun. By the time I even could have, the beast was already on me. It swatted at me, bearing deep claw-marks into my side and slinging me an impossible distance. Had it not been for the adrenaline, I would have been entirely crippled for some time. But my entire body was firing in an effort to survive. As soon as I had hit the ground, I was already up, shotgun back in hand, and running faster than I ever had. Before I ran though, I got a very lousy shot in on the thing. The same shot would’ve killed nearly anything, but it only angered the beast, and bruised my shoulder. Regardless, it gave me time to run faster than I knew I was capable of.
I ran out the door, dashed off the porch, and went out to the shed to hide and call authorities. I knew it would be soon to follow, and I knew that it would be more than capable of breaching the shed. I hoped that it wouldn’t immediately know that’s where I went though. It would give me just enough time to call the police or anyone that could help. When I got to the shed and slammed the door behind me, I could hear it already leaving the house on the hunt for me. But I quickly tore my phone from my pocket, and called 911. (props to me for having the number up before I opened the door). They seemed like they thought I was joking, but I didn't care. Now that I’d called, they had to send someone. Now this was a game of survival.
Like I’ve said, I live in the middle of BFE, so I knew they’d take some time to get there. But I believed I could evade the thing until they arrived. I was only barely right. As I’d expected, it quickly came barreling out of the door leading from outside into that massive living room. It didnt know where I went at first it seemed. It paced around, sniffing and making a low, gravelly gurgle. Sooner than I’d hoped, it picked up my scent. With the same impossible speed as before, I heard its powerful stomps lead their way to the wooden shack that I’d made my hideaway. It slowed once it reached the shed, sniffing around, making all kinds of horrible noises. My grandfather built this shed when I was young. He used it for all sorts of projects. From fixing old cars, to replacing parts of our lawnmower, this is where he came. It’s also where my love for auto mechanics began. The little timber and plywood shed made a part of who I am, so watching that beast tear through a wall as if it were as flimsy as paper made my stomach churn.
As the thing tore through the wall it sent splinters of wood and many of the tools laying about all over the place. A pair of pliers laying on what used to be a workbench behind the wall that was now a hole flew at me like a bullet, barely missing and leaving me with a small gash in my shoulder. Luckily the thing’s impact staggered it to an extent. I jumped out from behind my flimsy cover, already starting to sprint for a new way to evade the beast. The corn field. It was perfect; I could remain out of sight of the thing and still be able to fire at it. I sprinted towards the tall plants as fast as my legs could carry me, and the beast was not far behind now that it had recuperated.
Once I was in the field I hung a hard right, hoping that the thing might think I continued straight. To my surprise, it worked. Less than two seconds behind me it entered the field and rushed forward about thirty feet. Because of its size, I was able to get a good approximation for its location in the tall cornfield because of the sound and dispersed foliage. I shot twice as quickly as I could with the shotgun. Its shrill cry rang through the night air. I knew that I’d hurt it pretty bad. But by some wonder, it only seemed to grow angrier and more desperate to finish me off. It darted towards me at an even more unthinkable pace. Leaping towards me and slashing with its muscular, taloned arms, it cut across my ribs, tearing my shirt and leaving deep gashes in my chest. The pain was staggering. Like something I’d never experienced. Three lines across my chest; about five inches long and almost an inch deep. Despite my pain, I knew I had to do something to survive, and quickly. Already running from my vicious foe, I had to make a plan to get enough time to wrap something around my ribs. At this rate of blood loss, I knew I had only a little bit of time before I wouldn’t be able to run, or for that matter, survive. I did the only thing I thought I could to distract it. The coop.
We had eighteen hens, all egg laying. They provided many breakfasts for me and my family, and even some extra cash from the neighbors when I was young. I ran to it, desperately hoping that the hens would be enough to throw the beast off my trail long enough for me to clean myself up. When I reached the coop, I went through the front door and ran out the back frame made for the chickens. Despite being made for chickens it was roughly a three foot by three foot square hole, so I only had to briefly crouch to continue running. As I ran out the other side, the beast barreled through the front door frame, tearing off some shrapnel from the sides of the frame. As expected, he noticed the chickens and immediately went for them. From what I heard behind me as I ran, I imagined it swept them up one by one with its powerful arms, only to consume them whole in one or two vicious chomps. The hen’s sacrifice wouldn’t go unforgotten. They gave me enough time to run to the barn to bandage myself and ready my next plan of action.
As I made my way into the large barn, I immediately cut a piece from my pants and bandaged my wounded chest. It had maybe been a minute and a half since I was wounded but I was already feeling weaker than before. I wrapped my chest tight and many times over, so that no more blood would escape my body. As I finished, I pulled my phone from my pocket. It was already nearly 1:30. I couldn’t tell you how, but being in this things presence genuinely sped time up. To this day, I have no explanation for how something like that could work. Luckily for me, that meant the cops would arrive soon, and if I was even luckier, there would be more than one car. For now though, I had to prepare the next part of my impromptu plan. The shotgun obviously only angered the thing. So, I left it in the barn, half loaded. I ran to the wall of tools on the back side of the barn, and grabbed a hay fork. If bullets didn’t work, maybe I could drive something through the heart of this beast. I’d heard many stories of iron being a repellent or weapon against the supernatural. I had to take my chances and hope this would work. As I grabbed the fork, I heard the thing take in a deep, haggardly sniff. It was done with the chickens, and now it wanted its primary target, me.
Before it could reach me, I had to find a vantage point from which to pierce it safely. Immediately I went for the loft. Regardless of how it came up, I could stab it in it’s transition from ground to loft. I heard it run from the coop to the barn as soon as it caught my scent. It ran through the giant barn door following my exact trail to the back wall and then around. It looked up the ladder and then around the edge of the loft. Then it saw me. It snarled and let out a screechy, chittering growl noise. It propelled itself straight up from the ground to the loft (surprisingly not smashing through the wood) with its massive arms and a slight flick from its long tail. Seeing I had a weapon between me and it, the beast circled me like a cat. It flicked its tail at me, making me realize that even its tail was weaponized. It had a spike at the end of its tail with a line of serration on the top side. I plunged the fork forward instinctively and got one of the outer prongs to leave a relatively deep scratch on its tail. In turn, its attack was barely deflected and swept past my right thigh, leaving me with yet another gash, though not quite as deep. The laceration burned awfully. When I looked up however, it seemed my foe was in an equal amount of pain. The cut on its tail had singed up and was giving off slight smoke. I had gambled right. The iron fork had an effect on the beast.
I threw the fork down from the loft and jumped soon after it and rolled as I hit the ground. Don’t get me wrong, this did not feel great. It was a solid ten feet to the loft, but the alternative of trying to get to the ladder was likely a death sentence. I rushed out of the barn and back towards the house beast still pursuing closely. That’s when I heard it, sirens. Two police cruisers had arrived, both with two officers per car. I rushed into the house to try and evade the beast and give me time to explain the situation to the officers. As I bobbed and weaved among the farmhouse’s many doors and intricacies my grandfather had made, I felt myself getting weaker and almost drowsy.
“Did that stinger pack venom?” I muttered under shaky breaths.
“Not now!” I yelled to myself, as I rushed through the house with the beast only 10 feet behind me.
Then, I had an idea. In the kitchen there was a gap in the wall that saw into the living room. If I could duck down behind that window after jumping through, the thing might think I continued forward. Despite it being a huge gamble with my life, it was gaining on me quickly, and I had to make a choice. I ran to the kitchen, the beast’s violent stomps only a foot or so behind me at this point. As I reached the counter with the window over it, I quickly vaulted the counter and made a sharp turn to the right around the wall and then ducked down. Not a second later, the beast barreled through the gap tearing away some of the frame and bore a hard right and rushed down the hallway. I used my opportunity and quietly, yet hurriedly, exited the house. I could hear it still clattering around in the house. My scent was engraved in that house, so tracking me by scent out of it would be a near impossible task. As I came out of the house, hay fork still in hand, I rushed to meet the officers. As I approached, they raised their guns.
“No, no, no,” I said. “I live here, there’s some kind of monster here.”
“I’m sorry, what?” the officer closest to me said bluntly.
A shrill cry retched out from inside the house, spooking all the officers and painting a scared look on their faces.
“Bullets won’t do anything to it. You need something iron.” I told them with urgency.
“Even if I believed this crap, I wouldn’t chose some iron too-”
Just then, the beast leaped through a window on the second floor, tearing a hole in the wall around it.
Once they saw the nightmare, they immediately raised their guns to shoot and began firing. The shots rang loud in my ears, but the shrill, angry cry of the beast fought the sound in the air. The beast charged towards us, angrier than ever. As the cops continued firing, I raised my fork to defend myself. Much to my surprise the beast entirely dodged me and went for the cop on my left. It slung itself at the officer with great speed and tackled him to the ground, quickly swiping at his face and plunging its tail through his body armor and into his chest. He was dead in an instant. While it was still tearing into what was now a corpse, I took another jab at the beast. It stuck through its side and ran deep into what I imagine was its stomach region. The beast howled in pain and snapped his head in my direction. The cop behind me quickly swooped in to aid with a crowbar. The back end of the crowbar ran into its skull, staggering the beast back and onto its side.
“Thank you,” I said, “you saved my life.”
“Not yet I haven’t,” The man said gruffly, pointing towards the thing.
The beast stood up, a gash in the side of his face showing bone, and four pronged stab wounds in its side. Now we were making progress. The other two remaining cops dug through the police cruisers for anything iron while the other officer and I threatened and prodded at the beast to keep it off of us. One officer found a wrench and the other a piece of rebar with a jagged end.
“Backup is on the way,” the officer with the wrench said.
“Good,” I replied.
We moved our way in on the beast. Now, we were on the attack, or so I thought. The beast stood on guard. Ready to fend back any attack we may send his way with its tail. Instinctively, the officers began to surround it. I followed suit. As we pushed closer in circular formation, we prepared to attack. Suddenly, the beast swept its tail in a circle and swiped us off our feet one by one, and then rammed its tail through the leg of the officer with the wrench. However, this time, the serration wouldn’t allow the beast to rip its spear-ended tail out of the man’s leg. So, instead, it took the officer with it. It slung the officer to and fro and against the ground. The officer’s screams were something I’ll never forget. And then suddenly, a loud crack, and the screaming stopped. The officer’s head was barely held onto his neck, and the beast had freed its tail from the officer’s leg. While I was on my back, dreary weakness pulled into trying to sleep. I was so tired. I knew I was worn out, but with this adrenaline I should be the furthest thing from sleepy. I looked down at the gash in my leg as I stood up.
“Shit,” I muttered.
The officer with the crowbar noticed this and said, “What’s that?” pointing to my wound.
“Its tail, it has some kind of venom in it,” I told him with fear, “Its a sedative, I think.”
“Crap,” the same officer yelled as the beast made way for the other officer with the rebar.
The officer with the rebar was already up and running for his life. It was an effort in vain. The beast quickly caught up and tore through his chest. As it did, the officer jammed the rebar through the beast’s torso. Missing its heart by what had to be only inches and stabbing through a lung. It wheezed deeply, chittering noises released as it exhaled. It was going to die now either way, and it knew that, and even worse it was mad about that. Rebar still lodged in it’s chest, it finished tearing into the officers body. I shiver to think what was going through his head in his last moments.
Now it was just me and the officer with the crowbar left. Luckily, the beast was slowly suffocating, but that wouldn’t be enough for us both to survive. The beast shrieked out in a mixture of pain and rage. I held my pitchfork high, expecting a rampant attack. The officer held out the crowbar in a batters stance. Neither of us knew what would happen next, but we both were praying to god that we’d make it out.
“My name’s Davie,” the officer said in a whimper.
“Xander,” I shouted back.
“Xander, if I don’t make it, ask the folks at the office to tell my wife I love her.”
The beast turned to face us, and promptly rared back.
“I won’t have to, we’re both gonna to make it!” I shouted back. “Take this!”
I tossed the pitchfork to him and he dropped the crowbar and caught the fork in one clean motion.
“I’m gonna run, grab it’s attention. Once it’s following me, I want you to charge it. Stab it right in the heart. You ready?” I said.
“What!? No wait…” was all he managed to get out before I booked it.
The beast quickly followed and was soon to pass him. Then, it hit me. My vision blurred, my head spun, and within an instant, I had passed out. When I awoke, I was in a hospital room surrounded by agents ready to ask questions. It wasn’t until Officer Davie came into the room and cleared them out that I got some room to think.
“W-what happened?” I asked him.
“I did what you told me to,” Davie said bluntly.
“And it worked?” I said shocked.
“Well yeah,” he said “sent the thing squirming like a poked pig, then he fell over and faded out. You knew your plan would work right?”
“Yeah, of course,” I said, lying through my teeth.
Apparently those agents had collected the body of the thing and shipped it off for testing. They’ve periodically reached out to pester me with more questions since it happened. The more they do, the less I’ve told them. They made me sign an NDA when it first happened, but ehh f**k it. My family knows a different telling of the story, which I didn't like, but it kept them off my back about it so I went with it. For the most part, that’s where the story ends. But I swear, to this day, I hear those same chittering breaths before I fall asleep.
2024.02.29 19:12 Mysterious_Plenty727 Taking this walk through downtown at 11:30pm. Will I be safe?
2024.02.20 16:01 Serina_L Essential Furniture For a Toddler Room
Before you realize, your baby has already grown into a toddler. He / She starts to climbing out of crib, and you don’t need to breastfeed or change diapers anymore, so you know – It is the time to let your little one have his / her own space – a bedroom for toddler.
You want to make a list of furniture you need to transform your nursery into a toddler room.
It’s different for each family, but we list out all the essential pieces of furniture most parents purchase to complete their kid’s bedroom.
Loft bed is a great choice if there is limited space in your kids’ bedroom. You can utilize the space under the bed and place a study desk, small bookcase, and other storage. We recommend this Ambar Twin Loft Bed with Chest Desk & Bookcase by ACME. It is designed with children safety in mind, including an easy access guard-rail, and plenty of storage for kids’ items. It is a long-lasting piece that can carry your kid to college.
A nightstand is great additional storage too. Your kids can put things like glasses, story books, cups, night light, that needs easy access.
Post Link https://newbornurseryfurniture.com/blogs/toddler-furniture-blog/essential-furniture-for-a-toddler-room
submitted by Serina_L to newbornNursery [link] [comments]
You want to make a list of furniture you need to transform your nursery into a toddler room.
It’s different for each family, but we list out all the essential pieces of furniture most parents purchase to complete their kid’s bedroom.
Toddler Bed
If the crib you purchased is a 3-in-1 convertible crib or a 4-in-1 convertible crib, all you need is a toddler guard rail to finish the transition. But if what you have is a traditional crib, or for some reason you need a bigger bed for your toddler, you should consider a toddler bed or a bunk bed (if you have multiple kids).- Toddler Bed
Loft bed is a great choice if there is limited space in your kids’ bedroom. You can utilize the space under the bed and place a study desk, small bookcase, and other storage. We recommend this Ambar Twin Loft Bed with Chest Desk & Bookcase by ACME. It is designed with children safety in mind, including an easy access guard-rail, and plenty of storage for kids’ items. It is a long-lasting piece that can carry your kid to college.
- Bunk Bed
Toddler Storage
As your kid grows up, more and more stuff will be accumulated in your kid’s bedroom. Books, toys, cloths… some things you want them to have easy access to, some not. So you will need different kinds of storage furniture.- Dresser, Chest & Nightstand
A nightstand is great additional storage too. Your kids can put things like glasses, story books, cups, night light, that needs easy access.
- Cloths Wardrobe
- Bookcase
Study Desk & Chair
Sitting at a study desk gives kids’ a sense of purpose - to study, work or create. A dedicated study space helps children to develop a routine, so they will easily focus on their study. Having a study desk and chair will also help your child develop good posture at an early age. So they won’t have health issues that caused by bad posture.Toys That Encourage Imagination Play
Toddlers learn by imagining and doing. Pretend play helps your child improve language ability, social and emotional skills, and imagination. That’s why a pretend play toy is a popular choice for most modern families. You can put a kids play kitchen in your kid’s room or place a toddler house in your kid’s playroom or outdoor.Toy Cabinet
Of course you will need a toy cabinet or storage for kids toys. Get one that is designed for toddlers’ reachable height, so they can organize toys on their own. With a toy organizer, you don’t need to worry about messy floor with kids toys.Toddler Chair
An extra chair can be useful for your toddler to rest, read or take a nap. The toddler chairs we carry are great addition to your toddler’s bedroom or playroom. For example, this Contemporary Yellow Vinyl Kids Recliner from Flash Furniture is specifically designed for kids’ comfort. This plush recliner comes with a built-in headrest, footrest, and a cup holder to free up little hands and help prevent spills. Kids can enjoy watching tv, playing games or reading in this adorable recliner which keeps them occupied in comfort.Post Link https://newbornurseryfurniture.com/blogs/toddler-furniture-blog/essential-furniture-for-a-toddler-room
2024.02.09 23:27 StayGoldReddit Would like to get my garage sauna up to heat faster, any suggestions?
 | As the post says. Sauna gets up around 200°F, but during the winter takes much longer than I’d like. submitted by StayGoldReddit to DIY [link] [comments] I’ve got some foam board insulation, and cedar planks (suggested from someone else), would these benefit at all? Should I insulate inside the cracks/gaps? Invest in a mechanical fan? Open to all suggestions. Would like to make this thing as efficient as possible. It’s an Almost Heaven Bluestone. |
2024.01.10 20:27 duh_tch Bioactive for my Palmetto Corn Edisto
 | I got my girl into a larger enclosure and made sure to spruce it up for her. I was originally going to rehouse her from a Zoo Med 36x18x12 to a PVC 4x2x2 once she was close to 3.5-4ft long, but she’s so active I felt she could use some extra climbing space in the meantime. So, she gets a sub-tropical paradise until then :) submitted by duh_tch to bioactive [link] [comments] A little story about Edisto: a few weeks ago, I opened up her enclosure to feed her. I noticed a fresh shed (which she had done in the previous 12 hours, as she was in blue the night before when I checked on her)…and a small gap in the screen top, right where the clips lock in. With urgency and gentleness, I removed every piece of decor in her habitat; I raked my fingers through the substrate for 15 minutes. I absentmindedly raked my fingers through the substrate another 15 minutes reality set in-she had pushed her way out of the enclosure and was loose in the apartment. An “oversized studio” loft apartment, where two cats have free reign of every inch, whether I want them to or not. I came to this subreddit to learn what to do. Seeing as how it was feeding day, I left a F/T mouse in her enclosure, and a second F/T mouse in a bottle “trap”. I closed all doors and sprinkled flour beneath them. I placed sphagnum-packed hides behind furniture and in corners all over the apartment. I checked behind and under EVERYTHING-maintenance even came by to help me move the fridge and W/D. I could not line the walls with plastic bags, though, as one of my cats’ biggest quirks is the need to lick the logo off of every plastic bag he has access to. With each passing day, I came to terms that it was unlikely I’d see her again, I grew more and more convinced she had found the hole in the carpet my cat scratched open-a hole which leads to what is basically a 400sqft crawl space beneath my “bedroom” and walk-in (the quirks of loft apartments). The following Wednesday, I thawed my last fuzzy-not for Edisto, but for my other corn Scuppernong. I had already left 3 mice for Edisto, the snake I had eyes on and access to took priority. After she ate, I stepped in the kitchen to make my own dinner. Like many apartments, the kitchen has clear line of sight to the bathroom. Well, halfway through frying some eggs, I saw a commotion out of the corner of my eye. I turned, looked, and booked it-Bumi and Emmy were both swatting at something. It was Edisto, miraculously unscathed. When I say miraculously, I really mean it. Her enclosure is just about the furthest point from the bathroom. That means she, a bright white snake, managed to evade not one, but two eviscerators of small animals en-route to a hiding spot 3 feet across from the most heavily used litter box. While I’m happy to have my girl safe, sound, and in a fitting enclosure, I must say: if you ever buy a ZooMed, or are currently using a ZooMed, make damn sure the lid fits perfectly flush. I’ve inspected every other enclosure since, and I’ve found a disappointing range of fits. Quality control is a definite issue-I no longer see ZooMed as an equivalent substitution for Exo Terra. (The hygro-thermo is out of whack because I accidentally directly prayed it just before putting her in. It’s now reading 77°F/65%) |
2024.01.10 20:09 duh_tch Edisto’s New Bioactive, and a Story
 | I got my girl into a larger enclosure and made sure to spruce it up for her. I was originally going to rehouse her from a Zoo Med 36x18x12 to a PVC 4x2x2 once she was close to 3.5-4ft long, but she’s so active I felt she could use some extra climbing space in the meantime. So, she gets a sub-tropical paradise until then :) submitted by duh_tch to cornsnakes [link] [comments] A little story about Edisto: a few weeks ago, I opened up her enclosure to feed her. I noticed a fresh shed (which she had done in the previous 12 hours, as she was in blue the night before when I checked on her)…and a small gap in the screen top, right where the clips lock in. With urgency and gentleness, I removed every piece of decor in her habitat; I raked my fingers through the substrate for 15 minutes. I absentmindedly raked my fingers through the substrate another 15 minutes reality set in-she had pushed her way out of the enclosure and was loose in the apartment. An “oversized studio” loft apartment, where two cats have free reign of every inch, whether I want them to or not. I came to this subreddit to learn what to do. Seeing as how it was feeding day, I left a F/T mouse in her enclosure, and a second F/T mouse in a bottle “trap”. I closed all doors and sprinkled flour beneath them. I placed sphagnum-packed hides behind furniture and in corners all over the apartment. I checked behind and under EVERYTHING-maintenance even came by to help me move the fridge and W/D. I could not line the walls with plastic bags, though, as one of my cats’ biggest quirks is the need to lick the logo off of every plastic bag he has access to. With each passing day, I came to terms that it was unlikely I’d see her again, I grew more and more convinced she had found the hole in the carpet my cat scratched open-a hole which leads to what is basically a 400sqft crawl space beneath my “bedroom” and walk-in (the quirks of loft apartments). The following Wednesday, I thawed my last fuzzy-not for Edisto, but for my other corn Scuppernong. I had already left 3 mice for Edisto, the snake I had eyes on and access to took priority. After she ate, I stepped in the kitchen to make my own dinner. Like many apartments, the kitchen has clear line of sight to the bathroom. Well, halfway through frying some eggs, I saw a commotion out of the corner of my eye. I turned, looked, and booked it-Bumi and Emmy were both swatting at something. It was Edisto, miraculously unscathed. When I say miraculously, I really mean it. Her enclosure is just about the furthest point from the bathroom. That means she, a bright white snake, managed to evade not one, but two eviscerators of small animals en-route to a hiding spot 3 feet across from the most heavily used litter box. While I’m happy to have my girl safe, sound, and in a fitting enclosure, I must say: if you ever buy a ZooMed, or are currently using a ZooMed, make damn sure the lid fits perfectly flush. I’ve inspected every other enclosure since, and I’ve found a disappointing range of fits. Quality control is a definite issue-I no longer see ZooMed as an equivalent substitution for Exo Terra. (The last 3 pictures were taken while I was writing the story-she definitely do be climbing. I know the thermo-hygro is whack-I accidentally sprayed it directly just before putting Edisto in. It’s reading 77°F/66% now) |
2024.01.07 14:59 Enseron2 Shed movers/buyers?
Does anyone know any local companies that move/purchase sheds? Looking at a 12x16 existing shed with loft space for storage that needs moved. I would really like to find a company that would simply buy it and come take it off our property. It is in decent repair.
submitted by Enseron2 to lexington [link] [comments]
2024.01.02 15:14 doctorgecko Respect Kanako Yasaka (Touhou)
"A god must eliminate all who oppose their struggle for faith, one by one."
Kanako Yasaka
The Venerable Ancient Battlefield ~ Suwa Foughten FieldKanako Yasaka is a powerful sky goddess, and one of the three goddesses (counting the also human living goddess Sanae) residing in the Moriya shrine. In ancient times she defeated the previous owner of the shrine Suwako, but ultimately decided to run the shrine together with her due to the fear the residents of Suwa had of the curse god Mishaguji under Suawko's control. However in modern times peoples faith in gods was waining, and Kanko felt she was losing her power. Thus she came upon the plan to move the entire shrine to Gensokyo, a closed off region of Japan for creatures that have been forgotten. After the move she got into a bit of conflict with the existing Hakurei shrine when she tried to replace its god, but ultimately the move was quite successful and she became venerated as the deity of Youkai Mountain. Since moving she has made multiple attempts to gather more faith from Gensokyo's residents and improve its technology, some of which have been more successful than others and occasionally gain her the ire of the other residents.
Notes
- Source Index
- Perfect Memento in Strict Sense and Symposium of Post Mysticism is an in universe book written by Hidea no Akyuu. She has a tendency to exaggerate and speculate, so her claims should be taken with a grain of salt.
- I will be including skills and spell cards that are Sanae channeling Suwako's power or directly summoning her. These will be marked with S
- Given the original rules of spell card battles and a characters being introduced to the spell card system stating it would prevent useless bloodshed, there is at least a decent amount of implication that Spell Card battles are inherently non-lethal.
- Danmaku is intentionally not efficient or effective for serious combat
- Danmaku in general can be lethal to normal humans
- Shinto gods are the true nature of all things. They original start as nameless beings, and being given a name causes their scope to be more limited but their personality to be more defined. However gods require faith from humans, and if they lose that faith they essentially just become youkai
- Shinto gods can split themselves up infinitely, even with a body, and even dividing a god's spirit up infinitely wouldn't affect its power
- Akyuu describes fellow Moriya shrine god Suwako's body as being made of pure faith
- [Limit] Gods can be easily possessed by vengeful spirits due to being similar to them with Mizuchi managing to possess and drain her magical power without much trouble
- Gods can change their divine blessing by making use of myths, though Kanako states only gods of her level can accomplish this and she's still somewhat limited by her abilities
- Her branch shrine at the Hakurei shrine provides the blessings of good harvests and luck in (danmaku) battles
- Claims she can thrown in excellent luck in all of her fortunes
- Most of her blessings are skewed to benefit the youkai that visit her shrine
- Described as a god of wind and rain with the power to create heavenliness
- Creates a massive pathway of water over a lake
- Destroys a tengu gust
- States she can create terrain, though Byakuren notes how vague that description is
- Removes all of the silt from a landslide in a day
- Cooperates with Suwako to change terrain and open holes to the underground, and is skilled at making roads and erecting large structures (though the general nature of his abilities aren't clear)
- Claims she can clear away enough water to completely flood her nuclear fusion reactor in no time
- Repeatedly creates several small twisters
- Creates vortexes and gusts of wind that send her pillars flying
- Sky-God Summon: Wind:S Summons a powerful gust of wind after being summoned by Sanae
- Heaven's Stream "Miracle of Otensui"
- Heaven's Dragon "Source of Rains"
- God Sign "Omiwatari that God Walked": Creates a long pathway along a lake
- Fleeting Path "Omiwatari Cross"
- Wind Sign "Sacred Land Storm"
- Wind Sign "On-Deck Water God Storm"
Feats
- A single pillar breaks through Marisa's barrier and leaves a large crater in a stone walkway
- Fires multiple pillars at once that pierce into the deck of a boat and the (presumably) metal floor of a nuclear fusion reactor
- Marisa notes that her spell cards involving these are clearly holding back, given that they leave an obvious gap that she doesn't actually need to leave
- Sumireko feels like she's watching an attack involving Kanako's pillars in fast-forward, while Sakuya thinks she'd have trouble dodging it without stopping time
- Rapid fires pillars in front of her, up at an angle, or in all directions around her
- Repeatedly throws out several pillars in combination with her wind
- Hits a foe with several pillars after being summonedS
- Capable of firing off danmaku and blasts of water
- Sky-God Summon: Onbashira:S Slams pillars down on her foe after being summoned by Sanae
- Divine Festival "Expanded Onbashira"
- Weird Festival "Medoteko Boisterous Dance"
- Divine Pillar "Meteoric Onbashira"
- Onbashira "Rising Onbashira"
- Wind God Sign "Mishabashira"
- Wind Ghostly Sign "Dead Butterfly Onbashira"
- Wind Flower Sign "Onbashira Trial"
- Onbashira "Onbashira Trailing Shots"
- Onbashira "Onbashira Bunker Buster"
- Onbashira "On-Deck Onbashira Trailing Shots"
- Onbashira "Onbashira Torpedo"
- [Scaling] Sanae's base danmaku can destroy a tall thin stone pillar in a single attack
- Uses several snakes to clear away all of the danmaku that Sanae had left behind
- Aya considers her snakes to be quite fast
- Sanae struggles to dodge her danmaku during training
Skills
- Sky SerpentS Fires snake shaped projectiles that can turn at an angle to home somewhat on her foe
- Creates giant serpents or serpent like patterns to attack
- Attacks using rice as danmaku
- Misc Danmaku Patterns
- By holding up a thin vine, caused all of Suwako's iron weapons to instantly rust
- Either teleports or manifests in front of the heroine
- Able to sense Shou is connected to another god
- Performs a cold fusion experiment
- While working with Toutetsu is able to deal with any oil that leaks to the surface
- By making it fall it fantasy causes Moriya shrine and the nearby lake to move to Gensokyo
- Granted Utsuho Reuiji the power of Yatagatsuri with her apparently bringing Yatagatsuri (or its power) into the underground with her
- Travels out of Gensokyo past the Great Hakurei Barrier to purchase sake, and look up a weather forecast
Skills
- Sky-God Summon: Thrust:S Charges forwards and slams into the foe after being summoned by Sanae
- Mystery "Kuzui Clear Water": Fires off [knives in one direction but manages to have them surround the foe, in a method that Marisa compares to Reimu's abiliites
- Mystery "Yamato Torus" Stronger version of the above spell card
- Carries a container of sake that Sanae struggles to lift
- Marisa thinks she must be really physically strong to be able to hurl her pillars
- Comments on Sanae being slow
- Dodges a splash of oil
- Dodges a boat
- Capable of levitation/flight
- Passes through massive amounts of water to reach the hell of blood pools
- Fine being in the hell of blood pools, which is shown to be constantly on fire
- Takes danmaku from the heroine of Mountain of Faith (Reimu/Marisa)
- Takes hits from various character in 17.5, often without visible damage, though Yuuma is able to hurt her
- Effectively creates a new god that's a combination of her and Suwako in order to win over and collect faith from the people who could not accept her as the new ruler of Suwa
- Uses her words to win over the territorial mountain youkai, causing herself to be revered as the goddess of Youkai Mountain, allowing her shrine to be successfully accepted into Gensokyo
- Comes up with a scheme with the opening of the ropeway that manages to benefit her shrine, the tengu, and the kappa all at the same time
- Inspected the technology of the kappa, and attempted to start a technological revolution in Gensokyo, and in general makes a living by selling advanced technology to the kappa
- Negotiates with the kappa to protect the crops of the human village
- Realizes the lunarians Sanae encountered were Heavenly Gods, something that went completely over Sanae's head
- Responsible for maintaining a nuclear fusion reactor
- Reimu, Marisa, and Sanae all comment on how powerful she is, with Sanae saying Kanako is too great for her
- Considers Joon and Shion to be the most bottom-rung gods in the world
- Implied to have a high alcohol tolerance
- Has a human disguise she uses when entering the human village covertly
Main Protagonists
Sunken Fossil World Foes
Misc
2023.12.26 12:50 Codingblondy New Opportunity across the country
manipulative
nosey
hypocrite
relationshipkiller
yourtermsonly
4exhusbands
LeftAdvocate
Bias
Enabler
My fiance and I have always talked about using his job with high profile company to travel the USA together. Whether a cool remodeled van/bus/rv, etc. and then when we found a place we liked scope out some land and buy, then finance a fully built in 2 story shed with loft, electricity, and more if requested. Finance options all kinds available, and for cheap, I am talking like less than 600/ month. We live in the Charlotte area and currently are lying 1800/m for a black mold infested apartment, that his literally ruined over 10,000 dollars of valuables including curtains, brand new sectional sofa we just paid off (3800.00) (4200.00 w/ finance charges!), nectar brand new mattress (1400), designer cow hide rug (350.00), I can go on and on. Not to mention the wages here are the lowest percent in the US and yet the housing market is in the highest percent. A 900 sq foot house on a 1/4 of acre just was listed in charlotte for 725,000.00. The home was down the street from where there’s gun activity all the time and drag racing. Not to mention my fiancé, and I have had a history with depression, and PTSD, leading us to self medicate.. I have been wanting to live in the mountains since I was fooled when moving with him from my home town in 2016 about how far they really are, you cannot even see outline in the distance! He always promised me we would go and live in the mountains when the right opportunity arose. I just feel peace in the mountains. After losing two baby girls from previous relationship, I just feel like the mountains are naturist Xanax. I have more energy, more perky, more at peace, and just so happy. Finding jobs in rural mountains areas are hard. So I’ve dedicated myself to a degree online first doing full sack engineering certifications hopefully land a job very quickly and in about four months after I am almost halfway through my software engineering course I will return to a university pursue my BS in computer science, to further establish more than half of the companies that demand BS to get in the door. It’s hard to get a position in full stack engineering without BS backing you up. It’s been 7 years and we haven’t really accomplished a savings, paid past bills on credit off, well my finance has, bc his mother pays on it regularly, and used his name for a home equity line of 50,000 as well as was claiming him as a dependent without our knowledge in the beginning of our relationship ! Needless to say I was pissed. BC her husband hates my fiance and treats him horribly, yet had a cc for the equity line in his name blowing money on motorcycles and BMW sports cars, doesn’t work, and can’t stick to building budgets helping them constantly refinancing homes. Just playing around in November I was checking out CDL schools for his company and noticed that in two places one in west valley Utah and the other in Vancouver Washington, was in need of CDL drivers so bad they gave 10,000 sign on bonus’, food card daily, hotel stay daily, 26/hr during CLD training. And upon finishing and attaining license he would be making 30,000 more a year to start not including mileage paid and one other thing! 4 weeks of vacation while he only has two right now. And the housing in these places have homes that are ten times over and cheaper than what we live in. We are literally breathing in black mold I have I feel like 4 to 5 years of window to have a baby and I found out that breathing those toxins messes with your fertility very badly not to mention the heart issues that I have and what I’m prone to, infections on the heart, can totally start up again easily with the air that I’m breathing. So I took a chance and I called and I had a lady call me back immediately. She told me what to do. She gave me her number to keep in touch they spoke to my fiancé boss. They gave him a transfer paper, but he is one of the best workers that they have and they’re understaffed and the manager that he has frankly just does not get shit done so he needs to stay on him or on the guy that’s actually handling the transfer that’s a step above his Manager , his mother has been using every day to constantly talk him out of this, told me on the phone, the other day that there’s a CDL school for his company which is totally not true. And even if there was the amount he would make would not be the 90 to 125 gees a year that’s offered in these other places. because like previously said Charlotte has lower wages and higher homes, utilities, and grocery shopping. So the other day I open my mouth about some thing that my fiancé did not want her to know about and he hasn’t slept in the bed with me since, the whole idea was that she would back off about trying to talk him out of this like I know she’s doing we can’t afford to live where we are while I’m in school. We have a car down in the shop and only liability on it we’ve been having to buy cases of damp rid, dehumidifiers, our dogs are getting seizures… and I know that’s what it is because when we’re not here our dogs are fine but then when we’re here they’re getting seizures and one of my Pomeranians is but we just got a new Pomeranian that will be one January 18 and she is getting the same kind of focal , not to mention both me and my fiancé have had swelling in the legs periodically. I am looking into help with sending a demand letter to the property owners not manager is the property manager can’t do anything but the owners are ginkgo residential don’t ever rent from them yet Charlotte claims they’re one of the top five companies for something like low housing cost for median workers in the workforce, going green, and high maintenance quality all of which is just a straight up lie!She wants to help us with bills and control. Everything we do instead of letting us take this step on our own that I feel we need to do to pull ourselves out of the rut we have gotten into. It’s always been a plan of ours to travel the USA together , especially with this job he’s been there almost 4 years and no transfers and frankly here in Charlotte is getting worse and worse.
Sorry for the rant, but any comments ?
2023.12.22 22:54 Truth-Girl71 Neighbours tried to steal our land - and lost.
Hello everyone. This is my "Neighbours from Hell" story. My husband & I bought a house next to the bullies of the neighbourhood. We stood up to them when they tried to steal some of our land and we won! We are now the neighbourhood heroes. It's a long story, but very satisfying - so please hang in there.
First, some background: My husband & I bought our home on a 3/4 acre plot of land around 9 years ago. At the time we were just a few months away from getting married & this was an exciting moment for us. The day we took possession, we picked up the house key from our lawyer & went to the house. We got out of our car & just took a moment in the parking lot, holding hands to gaze on our first home together. At that point, an elderly man, in his 70's came running from his house next door to greet us. He'd apparently been waiting for us all day! He breathlessly told us all the problems the previous owners had had with our house. To be honest, it ruined our moment. My husband tried to politely get him to go home. He explained we had a lot to do & needed to get the house ready for the moving van to arrive shortly. My husband unlocked the front door & this man, who didn't take the hint, pushed his way in. He proceeded to inspect the entire first floor making comments along the way: "Oh look, they put hardwoods in the living room..." He went to climb the stairs, and at this point, our shock had started to wear off so my husband stood on the first step & blocked him from going upstairs. We finally got him out of our house. I'm telling you this particular story for two reasons. First, I wanted to give you a sense of how off this man was. Second, during his non-stop verbal diatribe, he pointed out that the green chain-link fence between our properties was on our property & we were responsible for any costs associated with it's maintenance. He vaguely pointed to the rear N-W corner of our property & said the survey marker back there showed this. He also said that the previous owners had dug up the buried front survey monument & moved it - so it was no longer reliable. At the time, we thought this was an odd story & we dismissed it. We shouldn't have.
My mother raised me to be kind & hospitable. My father taught me to keep my friends close & my enemies closer. So, shortly after we moved in, despite a bad first encounter, we invited the neighbours (I'll call them Joe & Rose) to dinner. They were quite chatty. They told us horrible stories of all the neighbours on the block. Rose, in her very high pitched voice, explained "I don't like the sound of music, so I shouldn't have to listen to it. The people in 37, 42 & 55 like to listen to music so I called the police on them. I don't like the smell of fire so I shouldn't have to smell it. The people in 39, 41 & 53 like to have backyard fires so I call the fire department on them. I don't like the sound of dogs barking, so I shouldn't have to listen to that. The people in 12, 25 & 64 have dogs so I called animal control on them. I don't like the sound of children playing & I shouldn't have to listen to that. The people in 48 & 29 have kids who like to play road hockey. I called Child Protective Services on them." This was just a few examples of her stories. Nobody was spared. My husband & I were dismayed & decided to keep Joe & Rose at arm’s length from that point on. We decided not to extend any further dinner invitations.
So, here's the source of our issue: the property line. Several years ago, we had our driveway re-paved & Joe approached our contractor to have his driveway re-paved too. In addition to repaving his existing driveway he also added a parking pad that butted up to our green chain-link fence. Joe would regularly back his van on this parking pad right up against the fence. In May 2017, Joe accidentally backed into the fence. He bent two fence posts & split a section of the chain-link fence. A nice neighbour would have come to our door & explained what happened & apologized. But Joe is not nice. We discovered the problem when our three dogs escaped through the split in the fence into his yard. It didn’t take us long to see what had happened. Later that day, we asked Joe to explain what happened. He denied everything while leaning against a rental car. We did get him to acknowledge that the damage must have come from his property - given the direction of the damage. But, he claimed it must have been his snow removal guy who hit the fence – months ago. There were no offers to compensate us for the damaged fence. Sadly, I believe he lied because he’s at an age where he’s worried about losing his driver’s license. My husband simply used wire to repair the fence to secure our yard. We let it go. That should have been that.
Shortly afterward, Rose started asking when we were going to replace our fence. She explained that the repaired fence was ugly & she shouldn’t have to look at it. Initially, I thought she was joking. I pretended not to hear her & simply walked away. She brought it up 2 more times. By the third time I told her we had no plans to replace the fence.
In the Spring of 2018, Rose again lamented about the ugly fence, but this time offered to pay half of the cost to replace it. I asked her if she was interested in another chain-link fence or a wooden fence. She preferred a wooden fence. I called some contractors to get quotes. On the day the first contractor was scheduled to come over, I called Rose. I wanted to sort out some details about fence height etc. before the contractor came over. She explained that Joe told her that because the fence was ours, he would not pay a penny towards replacing it. That was that. I cancelled the contractor, but asked him, out of curiosity, how much it would cost to replace the fence with another chain-link fence based on linear feet. The cost was around $2,000.
Later that summer Rose approached us again. My husband explained that the cost to put in a chain-link fence was expensive & this wasn’t our priority. Rose offered to pay half of the cost of the chain-link fence. I honestly wanted to walk away but also felt we would never have an opportunity to share costs again, so we started negotiating. We wanted the fence to be 6' tall. They wanted it to be 4' tall. We compromised on 5’. It would be a wooden fence in the style of our newly constructed back fence. In addition, we talked about whether to put it on the property line or the existing fence line. Joe preferred the latter. We gave in on that one. After all, according to the back-property marker, our fence was only around a foot inside the property line. And, Joe was having trouble avoiding the existing fence. If we moved it out one foot, chances were he’d just hit it again. We also wanted to put in 4 glass panels in the back portion of the fence so we would continue to enjoy the view of the ravine past Joe's property that we had been enjoying with the chain-link fence. They reluctantly agreed & even moved the location of a new shed they were installing so it wouldn’t block our planned view through the glass. They agreed to pay us $1,000. We decided to bite the bullet & upgrade to a wooden fence.
Now, I’m going to make a long story short here: Rose HATED the new fence & said it was ugly. They certainly weren’t going to pay what they’d agreed to & further, they would no longer agree to allow us to install glass panels. The ravine view belonged to them & we had no right to it. They planted a row of hedge cedars on their side of the fence & a blue spruce tree to block our view.
At this point, Rose started a screaming campaign which consisted of “The fence is ugly! We shouldn’t have to look at this effing ugly fence! You can’t look over here! Avert your eyes! We own the effing view!” Every time we went into our backyard, she screamed at us. We tried to bite our tongues, but it was hard. At one point, Rose was screaming at my husband while leaning on our still unfinished new fence. He asked her to back up because she was standing on our property between the fence & the property line. At this point, she became enraged & screamed that she owned the land on their side of the fence because of squatter’s rights. So, from this point on she started screaming all the usual things plus “Squatter’s rights! Squatter’s rights! Squatter’s rights!” We started to avoid going out into our backyard if they were outside.
One day, the fence contractor arrived to work on the fence. We saw him pull up out front & went into the back yard to meet him through the side gate. Both Joe & Rose saw us & started screaming the usual complaints. In addition, Rose added some lies about our contractor – how he didn’t know what he was doing & had built an ugly fence & was messy & left wood & tools on their property. My husband had had enough & finally snapped - telling Rose to shut up. He also called her a liar. Rose accused my husband of threatening her. At that point, the contractor & his wife, who were bringing in their tools to the back yard, made their presence known. Rose suddenly shut up. We had witnesses.
At this point, I realized Rose was trying to set us up so she could call the police. She wanted to accuse us of threatening her. I found a lawyer.
Our lawyer explained four things to us: 1) We had little claim to the verbal contract of $1,000. We needed to let that go. Strategically, we were better off having full control over the fence and ensuring they had no interest in it at all. We could build it as we wanted. We didn't need their permission to add the glass panels or paint it as we pleased. 2) They had no claim to Adverse Possession (aka squatter’s rights). Our properties were registered in Land Titles by the Developer before the houses were built. In our Province, properties registered in Land Titles with a survey are not eligible for claims of Adverse Possession (per Chapter L.5 of the Land Titles Act, “There is no title to adverse possession.”) She also explained screaming they owned the land over the fence does not give them the land. They must go to court to have a judge award the land to them. 3) Screaming over the fence is a crime (Private Nuisance) & we needed to call the police. The police would calm down this escalating situation. 4) Claiming to own the view was simply ridiculous.
We responded in two ways: 1) We sent the neighbours a letter explaining they did not own the land on their side of the fence & provided proof of the land registry & the relevant legal information. We explained that if they walked on our property, they were trespassing. We also explained that from this point on, we would have zero tolerance of any verbal abuse. 2) We called the police on the non-emergency line. This was sad for me because I have never in my whole life called the police on anyone. When the police arrived, they spoke to us first. We explained that we wanted the neighbours to stop talking or screaming at us, our family or our contractors. They wanted to know what kind of things they were screaming at us. I understand they need to be skeptical of things they're told & they were here. They literally rolled their eyes when we told them. As soon as Joe & Rose opened the door, Rose became agitated (the word used by the police) & started screaming that they owned the view etc. One police officer had to ask her to go inside the house & close the door. Joe remained on the front porch with the officers & he agreed to stop harassing us. While walking back to our house, we heard one officer say to the other "I understand what they're up against now." The police explained to us that they felt there was some mental health issues going on with Rose & if there were any more issues, we should call the police again. He suggested we continue to document incidents which is in line with what our lawyer advised us. Believe it or not, sending the police over calmed things down – for a while.
In the meantime, I was worried that Joe would back into the new fence. He would back his van right up against it. I wanted to install a barrier in the space between the fence & the property line that would prevent Joe from hitting the fence. To do that, we really needed to know where the property line was. We borrowed a metal detector & found the buried front marker. It was not where we expected it to be. If it was correct, the front of our fence was around 6-7 feet inside the property line – not 1 foot like we thought. We marked the location of the buried property marker with a wooden stake & paint. This upset Joe & I saw him remove our stake with his riding mower the next day.
Because the fence line did not align to the property line, we hired a surveyor. They discovered that not only had Joe removed the front stake we installed, but he had also removed the official buried survey marker with his mower – which is illegal. When Rose saw the surveyors, she came running out & verbally attacked them saying they could not trespass on her property. The surveyors were very calm & handed her their business card. They explained that now they had identified themselves they were allowed, by law, to access her property. Rose placed a lawn chair on her front lawn, sat down, crossed her arms & stared at the surveyors all day.
I was shocked how long this process took. At 5 pm, the surveyors explained that they were not quite complete. Because our property was on a curve & was pie-shaped, they had some triangulation calculations they had to make at their office & would come back on the following Monday to finish up. They explained the process was taking them awhile because not only had the front marker been removed, but the back marker had been moved – by over 5 feet. Now that strange story Joe had told us about the previous homeowners moving the buried monument made sense. He had moved the back monument & the front monument was out of alignment so he came up with this lame story to explain it.
The surveyors came back the following Monday & installed the new front & back markers in the correct locations & added 10 additional wooden stakes along the property line. Now things made sense. The original fence was around 6 feet inside the property line all along the fence line. Oh my God! When Joe saw the new property line stakes, all hell broke loose! I thought he was going to have a stroke!
By this time, I’d told our fence contractor, to stop work on the new fence & asked him what it would take to move the fence closer to the property line. Remember, he'd heard Joe & Rose scream lies about his work & the ugly fence. There was no love lost between the contractor & our neighbours. He wanted to do everything he could to make things right & if moving the fence was what needed to be done, so be it. So, the day after the new property line stakes were installed, he started to dig post holes 2 inches inside the property line. He laughed whenever Joe & Rose gave him a hard time & accused him of trespassing. We also bought a surveillance camera & I was able to document the neighbours' bad behaviour. They continued to park their van past the string line & were adding their own stakes at strange places. We just removed them.
Around this time, we had drinks with another neighbour, Matt, from down the road. This was the only person still on speaking terms with Joe & Rose. Matt made it clear, he had his own issues with Rose - mainly because she called the fire department whenever he had a small, permitted fire in his back yard. Matt explained that Joe & Rose still believed they had claims to Squatters Rights & planned to hire a lawyer to claim this land. And, if by some chance they failed, they planned to charge us thousands of dollars for the costs they’d incurred several years before to remove 5 large pine trees along the property line. They removed these trees as the roots were damaging their driveway. They felt that if we wanted to claim additional land, then we should incur the costs to remove these trees as they technically belonged to us. According to an old aerial view of our properties I received from our surveyor, it looks like the pine trees were planted decades ago on the property line. I now suspect the chain-link fence was simply installed in front of the mature pine trees. It's likely those pine trees wholly or partially belonged to us. Either way, Joe & Rose had failed to secure our permission to remove them. Not only were we under no obligation to pay for the cost to remove them, but we had a perfect counterclaim had they tried. We would claim damages for the removal of the trees. The best thing Matt told us was that Rose was so angry at the police for how she’d been told to go back into her house the day they contacted them, she’d called their sergeant & filed a complaint against them. In keeping with her penchant for calling the authorities on everybody, she even called the authorities on the authorities. At least she’s consistent. I made a mental note to make sure to ask for the same police officers if I ever needed to call them back - knowing there'd be no love lost between them & the neighbours.
True to their word, the neighbours hired a lawyer. The whole neighbourhood saw him arrive in his suit & briefcase. He must have told them they had no claim to adverse possession, and they couldn’t charge us for the cost of removing the trees, because nothing happened.
So, the fence is now completed – to within 2 inches of the property line. We did make some concessions. We didn’t install glass panels. This was a hot button for Rose & she threatened to break them. While holding a hammer she said: “It would be a shame if they broke, wouldn’t it?” Very generously, we also decided to not cut the asphalt on the corner of Joe’s parking pad that is on our property. Instead, we bumped in the fence at the parking pad by 2 feet & installed a wooden barrier in front of it so Joe can’t hit the new fence. We have no appetite for dealing with them if they hit the fence. He has around 6 less feet to park & Rose still complains bitterly that the fence is ugly, but we just don’t care.
An interesting thing happened when we stood up to Joe & Rose - a collective cheer went up in the neighbourhood. Several neighbours have knocked on our door to shake our hands, offer support, & tell us their stories of abuse. We take comfort in the wins we made – including regaining almost 1,200 square feet of property. This has been a painful & sad chapter for us but we’re grateful for all our other neighbours who are decent & kind. I wanted to share this story to let others know that fences do make the best neighbours.
submitted by Truth-Girl71 to neighborsfromhell [link] [comments]
First, some background: My husband & I bought our home on a 3/4 acre plot of land around 9 years ago. At the time we were just a few months away from getting married & this was an exciting moment for us. The day we took possession, we picked up the house key from our lawyer & went to the house. We got out of our car & just took a moment in the parking lot, holding hands to gaze on our first home together. At that point, an elderly man, in his 70's came running from his house next door to greet us. He'd apparently been waiting for us all day! He breathlessly told us all the problems the previous owners had had with our house. To be honest, it ruined our moment. My husband tried to politely get him to go home. He explained we had a lot to do & needed to get the house ready for the moving van to arrive shortly. My husband unlocked the front door & this man, who didn't take the hint, pushed his way in. He proceeded to inspect the entire first floor making comments along the way: "Oh look, they put hardwoods in the living room..." He went to climb the stairs, and at this point, our shock had started to wear off so my husband stood on the first step & blocked him from going upstairs. We finally got him out of our house. I'm telling you this particular story for two reasons. First, I wanted to give you a sense of how off this man was. Second, during his non-stop verbal diatribe, he pointed out that the green chain-link fence between our properties was on our property & we were responsible for any costs associated with it's maintenance. He vaguely pointed to the rear N-W corner of our property & said the survey marker back there showed this. He also said that the previous owners had dug up the buried front survey monument & moved it - so it was no longer reliable. At the time, we thought this was an odd story & we dismissed it. We shouldn't have.
My mother raised me to be kind & hospitable. My father taught me to keep my friends close & my enemies closer. So, shortly after we moved in, despite a bad first encounter, we invited the neighbours (I'll call them Joe & Rose) to dinner. They were quite chatty. They told us horrible stories of all the neighbours on the block. Rose, in her very high pitched voice, explained "I don't like the sound of music, so I shouldn't have to listen to it. The people in 37, 42 & 55 like to listen to music so I called the police on them. I don't like the smell of fire so I shouldn't have to smell it. The people in 39, 41 & 53 like to have backyard fires so I call the fire department on them. I don't like the sound of dogs barking, so I shouldn't have to listen to that. The people in 12, 25 & 64 have dogs so I called animal control on them. I don't like the sound of children playing & I shouldn't have to listen to that. The people in 48 & 29 have kids who like to play road hockey. I called Child Protective Services on them." This was just a few examples of her stories. Nobody was spared. My husband & I were dismayed & decided to keep Joe & Rose at arm’s length from that point on. We decided not to extend any further dinner invitations.
So, here's the source of our issue: the property line. Several years ago, we had our driveway re-paved & Joe approached our contractor to have his driveway re-paved too. In addition to repaving his existing driveway he also added a parking pad that butted up to our green chain-link fence. Joe would regularly back his van on this parking pad right up against the fence. In May 2017, Joe accidentally backed into the fence. He bent two fence posts & split a section of the chain-link fence. A nice neighbour would have come to our door & explained what happened & apologized. But Joe is not nice. We discovered the problem when our three dogs escaped through the split in the fence into his yard. It didn’t take us long to see what had happened. Later that day, we asked Joe to explain what happened. He denied everything while leaning against a rental car. We did get him to acknowledge that the damage must have come from his property - given the direction of the damage. But, he claimed it must have been his snow removal guy who hit the fence – months ago. There were no offers to compensate us for the damaged fence. Sadly, I believe he lied because he’s at an age where he’s worried about losing his driver’s license. My husband simply used wire to repair the fence to secure our yard. We let it go. That should have been that.
Shortly afterward, Rose started asking when we were going to replace our fence. She explained that the repaired fence was ugly & she shouldn’t have to look at it. Initially, I thought she was joking. I pretended not to hear her & simply walked away. She brought it up 2 more times. By the third time I told her we had no plans to replace the fence.
In the Spring of 2018, Rose again lamented about the ugly fence, but this time offered to pay half of the cost to replace it. I asked her if she was interested in another chain-link fence or a wooden fence. She preferred a wooden fence. I called some contractors to get quotes. On the day the first contractor was scheduled to come over, I called Rose. I wanted to sort out some details about fence height etc. before the contractor came over. She explained that Joe told her that because the fence was ours, he would not pay a penny towards replacing it. That was that. I cancelled the contractor, but asked him, out of curiosity, how much it would cost to replace the fence with another chain-link fence based on linear feet. The cost was around $2,000.
Later that summer Rose approached us again. My husband explained that the cost to put in a chain-link fence was expensive & this wasn’t our priority. Rose offered to pay half of the cost of the chain-link fence. I honestly wanted to walk away but also felt we would never have an opportunity to share costs again, so we started negotiating. We wanted the fence to be 6' tall. They wanted it to be 4' tall. We compromised on 5’. It would be a wooden fence in the style of our newly constructed back fence. In addition, we talked about whether to put it on the property line or the existing fence line. Joe preferred the latter. We gave in on that one. After all, according to the back-property marker, our fence was only around a foot inside the property line. And, Joe was having trouble avoiding the existing fence. If we moved it out one foot, chances were he’d just hit it again. We also wanted to put in 4 glass panels in the back portion of the fence so we would continue to enjoy the view of the ravine past Joe's property that we had been enjoying with the chain-link fence. They reluctantly agreed & even moved the location of a new shed they were installing so it wouldn’t block our planned view through the glass. They agreed to pay us $1,000. We decided to bite the bullet & upgrade to a wooden fence.
Now, I’m going to make a long story short here: Rose HATED the new fence & said it was ugly. They certainly weren’t going to pay what they’d agreed to & further, they would no longer agree to allow us to install glass panels. The ravine view belonged to them & we had no right to it. They planted a row of hedge cedars on their side of the fence & a blue spruce tree to block our view.
At this point, Rose started a screaming campaign which consisted of “The fence is ugly! We shouldn’t have to look at this effing ugly fence! You can’t look over here! Avert your eyes! We own the effing view!” Every time we went into our backyard, she screamed at us. We tried to bite our tongues, but it was hard. At one point, Rose was screaming at my husband while leaning on our still unfinished new fence. He asked her to back up because she was standing on our property between the fence & the property line. At this point, she became enraged & screamed that she owned the land on their side of the fence because of squatter’s rights. So, from this point on she started screaming all the usual things plus “Squatter’s rights! Squatter’s rights! Squatter’s rights!” We started to avoid going out into our backyard if they were outside.
One day, the fence contractor arrived to work on the fence. We saw him pull up out front & went into the back yard to meet him through the side gate. Both Joe & Rose saw us & started screaming the usual complaints. In addition, Rose added some lies about our contractor – how he didn’t know what he was doing & had built an ugly fence & was messy & left wood & tools on their property. My husband had had enough & finally snapped - telling Rose to shut up. He also called her a liar. Rose accused my husband of threatening her. At that point, the contractor & his wife, who were bringing in their tools to the back yard, made their presence known. Rose suddenly shut up. We had witnesses.
At this point, I realized Rose was trying to set us up so she could call the police. She wanted to accuse us of threatening her. I found a lawyer.
Our lawyer explained four things to us: 1) We had little claim to the verbal contract of $1,000. We needed to let that go. Strategically, we were better off having full control over the fence and ensuring they had no interest in it at all. We could build it as we wanted. We didn't need their permission to add the glass panels or paint it as we pleased. 2) They had no claim to Adverse Possession (aka squatter’s rights). Our properties were registered in Land Titles by the Developer before the houses were built. In our Province, properties registered in Land Titles with a survey are not eligible for claims of Adverse Possession (per Chapter L.5 of the Land Titles Act, “There is no title to adverse possession.”) She also explained screaming they owned the land over the fence does not give them the land. They must go to court to have a judge award the land to them. 3) Screaming over the fence is a crime (Private Nuisance) & we needed to call the police. The police would calm down this escalating situation. 4) Claiming to own the view was simply ridiculous.
We responded in two ways: 1) We sent the neighbours a letter explaining they did not own the land on their side of the fence & provided proof of the land registry & the relevant legal information. We explained that if they walked on our property, they were trespassing. We also explained that from this point on, we would have zero tolerance of any verbal abuse. 2) We called the police on the non-emergency line. This was sad for me because I have never in my whole life called the police on anyone. When the police arrived, they spoke to us first. We explained that we wanted the neighbours to stop talking or screaming at us, our family or our contractors. They wanted to know what kind of things they were screaming at us. I understand they need to be skeptical of things they're told & they were here. They literally rolled their eyes when we told them. As soon as Joe & Rose opened the door, Rose became agitated (the word used by the police) & started screaming that they owned the view etc. One police officer had to ask her to go inside the house & close the door. Joe remained on the front porch with the officers & he agreed to stop harassing us. While walking back to our house, we heard one officer say to the other "I understand what they're up against now." The police explained to us that they felt there was some mental health issues going on with Rose & if there were any more issues, we should call the police again. He suggested we continue to document incidents which is in line with what our lawyer advised us. Believe it or not, sending the police over calmed things down – for a while.
In the meantime, I was worried that Joe would back into the new fence. He would back his van right up against it. I wanted to install a barrier in the space between the fence & the property line that would prevent Joe from hitting the fence. To do that, we really needed to know where the property line was. We borrowed a metal detector & found the buried front marker. It was not where we expected it to be. If it was correct, the front of our fence was around 6-7 feet inside the property line – not 1 foot like we thought. We marked the location of the buried property marker with a wooden stake & paint. This upset Joe & I saw him remove our stake with his riding mower the next day.
Because the fence line did not align to the property line, we hired a surveyor. They discovered that not only had Joe removed the front stake we installed, but he had also removed the official buried survey marker with his mower – which is illegal. When Rose saw the surveyors, she came running out & verbally attacked them saying they could not trespass on her property. The surveyors were very calm & handed her their business card. They explained that now they had identified themselves they were allowed, by law, to access her property. Rose placed a lawn chair on her front lawn, sat down, crossed her arms & stared at the surveyors all day.
I was shocked how long this process took. At 5 pm, the surveyors explained that they were not quite complete. Because our property was on a curve & was pie-shaped, they had some triangulation calculations they had to make at their office & would come back on the following Monday to finish up. They explained the process was taking them awhile because not only had the front marker been removed, but the back marker had been moved – by over 5 feet. Now that strange story Joe had told us about the previous homeowners moving the buried monument made sense. He had moved the back monument & the front monument was out of alignment so he came up with this lame story to explain it.
The surveyors came back the following Monday & installed the new front & back markers in the correct locations & added 10 additional wooden stakes along the property line. Now things made sense. The original fence was around 6 feet inside the property line all along the fence line. Oh my God! When Joe saw the new property line stakes, all hell broke loose! I thought he was going to have a stroke!
By this time, I’d told our fence contractor, to stop work on the new fence & asked him what it would take to move the fence closer to the property line. Remember, he'd heard Joe & Rose scream lies about his work & the ugly fence. There was no love lost between the contractor & our neighbours. He wanted to do everything he could to make things right & if moving the fence was what needed to be done, so be it. So, the day after the new property line stakes were installed, he started to dig post holes 2 inches inside the property line. He laughed whenever Joe & Rose gave him a hard time & accused him of trespassing. We also bought a surveillance camera & I was able to document the neighbours' bad behaviour. They continued to park their van past the string line & were adding their own stakes at strange places. We just removed them.
Around this time, we had drinks with another neighbour, Matt, from down the road. This was the only person still on speaking terms with Joe & Rose. Matt made it clear, he had his own issues with Rose - mainly because she called the fire department whenever he had a small, permitted fire in his back yard. Matt explained that Joe & Rose still believed they had claims to Squatters Rights & planned to hire a lawyer to claim this land. And, if by some chance they failed, they planned to charge us thousands of dollars for the costs they’d incurred several years before to remove 5 large pine trees along the property line. They removed these trees as the roots were damaging their driveway. They felt that if we wanted to claim additional land, then we should incur the costs to remove these trees as they technically belonged to us. According to an old aerial view of our properties I received from our surveyor, it looks like the pine trees were planted decades ago on the property line. I now suspect the chain-link fence was simply installed in front of the mature pine trees. It's likely those pine trees wholly or partially belonged to us. Either way, Joe & Rose had failed to secure our permission to remove them. Not only were we under no obligation to pay for the cost to remove them, but we had a perfect counterclaim had they tried. We would claim damages for the removal of the trees. The best thing Matt told us was that Rose was so angry at the police for how she’d been told to go back into her house the day they contacted them, she’d called their sergeant & filed a complaint against them. In keeping with her penchant for calling the authorities on everybody, she even called the authorities on the authorities. At least she’s consistent. I made a mental note to make sure to ask for the same police officers if I ever needed to call them back - knowing there'd be no love lost between them & the neighbours.
True to their word, the neighbours hired a lawyer. The whole neighbourhood saw him arrive in his suit & briefcase. He must have told them they had no claim to adverse possession, and they couldn’t charge us for the cost of removing the trees, because nothing happened.
So, the fence is now completed – to within 2 inches of the property line. We did make some concessions. We didn’t install glass panels. This was a hot button for Rose & she threatened to break them. While holding a hammer she said: “It would be a shame if they broke, wouldn’t it?” Very generously, we also decided to not cut the asphalt on the corner of Joe’s parking pad that is on our property. Instead, we bumped in the fence at the parking pad by 2 feet & installed a wooden barrier in front of it so Joe can’t hit the new fence. We have no appetite for dealing with them if they hit the fence. He has around 6 less feet to park & Rose still complains bitterly that the fence is ugly, but we just don’t care.
An interesting thing happened when we stood up to Joe & Rose - a collective cheer went up in the neighbourhood. Several neighbours have knocked on our door to shake our hands, offer support, & tell us their stories of abuse. We take comfort in the wins we made – including regaining almost 1,200 square feet of property. This has been a painful & sad chapter for us but we’re grateful for all our other neighbours who are decent & kind. I wanted to share this story to let others know that fences do make the best neighbours.