Topic: Messages In The Aether

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-22 17:30 EST

Messages In The Aether
(Oh yes, it's a great idea so it's stolen!)

A gathering point for all the various communications that fly through the West End and beyond ? and since some of the West End people don't do tech, or just blow it up, feel free to post any sort of message --

Notes left on wrecked cards and tucked into pockets
Texts from friends and collection agents
Messages in bottles and on refrigerators and hanging from balloons
Voice mails and answering machines
Letters sent or lost or hidden away
Lipstick on mirrors
Eyeliner on wrists
Sharpie on cheeks
Notices of eviction or eminent domain
Tickets
Email
Graffiti
Phone and text conversations too.

Write what sort of message has been left, or use the text format of sender/timestamp, and have fun!

All are welcome to participate, so please do!

Pharlen · Date: 2015-01-22 17:38 EST

Text to Lirenel (5:25): Benjamin is fine.

Text to Pharlen (8:30): Thanks for that. I can't find the frustrated and sarcastic emoticons. Will this do?

Text to Lirenel (9:46): Assassin cults always work in pairs, Darling.

Text to Pharlen: (9:48): Pairs? So where's this one's pairing, or wasn't she part of an AssCult?

Text to Pharlen: (9:49): ASSASSIN CULT.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-22 18:01 EST

Text to Finlay (12:39): I can hear you spoiling my animals from here.

Text to Finlay (12:40): Seriously, if Bob is nice to you, he's just doing it to spite me.

Text to Finlay (12:50): (Link to the Midnight Garden of RhyDin television show)

Text to Finlay (1:00): No matter what the crows tell you, they've already been fed!

FinMack · Date: 2015-01-23 00:02 EST

Text to Ben (4:30): Could not visit until work was done.

Text to Ben (4:31): I be a mess but the animals like my stink.

Text to Ben (4:31): Bob says it be your fault. You try too hard.

Text to Ben (4:32): Dont know what that message means, will ask Antonia tonight.

Ketch Creeley · Date: 2015-01-23 01:37 EST

2:28 AM
Location: Alley-facing side of a janitorial supply shop.

http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag62/ketchcreeley/Pejac-2_zpsc266d346.jpg

Jackie Von Tombs · Date: 2015-01-23 17:49 EST

A letter written on lovely gothic stationary, and delivered via little brother...

Dear Princess,

OMG I am in so much trouble. So far, 'grounded FOREVER' and busted back to the stone age. You're probably going to hate me too. I was SO STUPID I don't even want to say but I better woman up for it. I almost got Benjamin killed.

I didn't even know he was out there! But that's no excuse, Dad says if you didn't go in expecting the worst, then you're dumb and OH HAI. UGH.

So, I was hanging out at the docks after a run, and this bug fugging ugly woman was standing by that creepy elf coffee shop, using the pay phone there. I could hear her talking about taking a hit on someone that sounded a lot like a friend of mine, Lesinda.

Long story short, she went chasing after me, and I meant to run her into RDI, but I ran into Benjamin and the woman cornered us and THANKFULLY well, Benjamin's okay but wow, I didn't know he could do that with the electricity.

Anyhow, Mum healed him and everything ? he didn't get shot but the lightning thing threw him across the alley, and his power and mine just don't work well together, mostly because I suck at handling time.

SO that's that, no phone, internet, car, anything, I'm doomed. But Benjamin's okay so that's something. I totally understand if you hate me. Desdenova's promised to run letters for me, so there's that. :(

Love, Jackie

Jackie Von Tombs · Date: 2015-01-23 17:53 EST

This note on lovely gothic stationary was waiting for Lesinda at the Red Dragon Inn...

Dear Lesinda,

Someone hired a pair of the ugliest assassins ever and they sound like they were looking for you, but that's all I know, and there wasn't anything else on the bodies. SO be careful, please.

I'm in all kinds of trouble so just send letters if you want with Desdenova. Or call Mum.

Love, Jackie

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-01-23 19:37 EST

Text to Benjamin: (10:00) What the **** happened to my DAD??

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-23 20:48 EST

Text to Zen and Brad: (10:45) Ugh. Your Dad and I got jumped in an alleyway by an assassin. He'll be okay, I promise.

Text to Zen and Brad: (10:46) He's at my house, if he doesn't open the door, call for Elsa, she'll let you in.

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-01-23 20:51 EST

A letter written on pink stationary bordered with tiny spring flowers and fairy dust.

Dear Jackie,

Hawk read this first because Des stopped to see him and play Minecraft before giving me your letter. Hawk wants to know make and model of the gun ugly assassin used. He also wants to know how you managed to stop time. I told him to write a letter to you himself but he just shut the door.

I am so RELIEVED to learn that you and Benjamin are all right. Daddy said something happened but he wouldn't tell me what, and I haven't seen Benjamin for weeks and weeks and weeks! Not since he started filming the latest season of Midnight Garden of Rhydin.

Did you see the interview he did? He said he loved me and made it sound like we were getting married! I hope Bran didn't see it. Embarrassing!

Winter sucks. We're mostly stuck in Faerie and with you grounded, well, I will get to visit you, won't I? We can work on your Dad together to unground you. At least you can use my phone to text.

The new blog is coming out and it features my M-Gor plushie reviews. I will find a printer somewhere and print it out for you to read.

Hearts and Kisses!
~*~ Princess ~*~

p.s. What's a pay phone?

p.p.s I don't hate you.

p.p.p.s. This is so weird.

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-01-23 20:56 EST

Text to Benjamin and Bran: (no time stamp) Squee!
http://i1171.photobucket.com/albums/r558/AscheFire/Ribbon%20Dreams/sterlingplushie.png

Text to Benjamin: (no time stamp) Quit getting Jackie in trouble!

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-23 21:31 EST

Text to Little Flower (4:55pm) is that the new plushie? It's kind of cute. Get one for Taneth please?

Text to Little Flower (4:57pm) Sent you Taneth's phone number.

Text to Little Flower (4:59pm) Jackie's Mum wouldn't believe me. No one's a good enough actor to fool a mum.

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-01-23 21:52 EST

Text to Benjamin: (no time stamp) Taneth has a cell?????? How come nobody told me???? No one tells me anything!!!!!1!!!!!1

Text to Benjamin: (no time stamp) Will give her one when I see her.

Text to Taneth: (no time stamp) I have a present for you!

Text to Taneth: (no time stamp) Also, we need to get Jackie out of jail!!!!!

Text to Bran: (no time stamp) ?You love me. Real or not real?"
I tell him, "Real.? From Mockingjay. Have you read it???? <3 <3 <3 <3

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-23 22:10 EST

Text to Little Flower (7:50pm) I just told you <3

Text to Little Flower (7:53pm) Aw, thank you.

Text to Little Flower (7:55pm) Jackie's mum is terrifying. Pass!

Text to Little Flower (7:57pm) I'm a chicken.

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-01-23 22:14 EST

Text to Benjamin: (no time stamp) WWSD???????????

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-23 22:32 EST

Text to Little Flower (8:10pm) Spend a half hour making Jackie think he hated her with a passion, plot some weirdly altruistic stunt with her Mum, beat the snot out of her boyfriend before rescuing him from some horrible fate, and then kiss her before snarling and vanishing into the night.

Text to Little Flower (8:13pm) Running away screaming in all reality because her Da's one of those uber Alpha Males who cleans guns when his darling's got a date over.

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-01-23 22:35 EST

Text to Benjamin: (no time stamp) I need to write this down!

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-23 22:38 EST

Text to Little Flower (8:17pm) You rock, Little Flower. Add in the little brother who summons minions of darkness by accident.

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-01-23 22:43 EST

Text to Benjamin: (no time stamp) Maybe. Only if he stops letting Hawk read my letters. :-(

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-23 22:50 EST

Text to Little Flower (8:20pm) Boys stink. Almost at the inn, Little Flower. <3

Bran FD · Date: 2015-01-23 23:37 EST

Text to Joy and Benjamin: (no time stamp) OMG you know Da will want one.

Text to Joy: (no time stamp) "... I need... the dandelion in the spring. The bright yellow that means rebirth instead of destruction. The promise that life can go on, no matter how bad our losses. That it can be good again.? Yeah, I read it. You're my dandelion.

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-01-24 00:02 EST

Text to Bran: (no time stamp) I'll make sure I save one for him. You are wonderful!

Bran receives a series of texts with links and pictures to hearts and flowers, flowers and hearts.

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-01-24 01:21 EST

Text to Bran: (1:15) LMFAO Some guy just asked Ben if he had unicorns, if his 'tuckus' was great and if it had a kingdom, a name or a title!

Bran FD · Date: 2015-01-24 01:27 EST

Text to Zhe: (1:19) What guy? What are you doing? Where are you two, Z, at the bar?

Text to Zhe: (1:25) Oh, and Da's fine, thanks for asking. Sleeping. Occasionally talking in his sleep. I'm fine too, thanks.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-24 13:22 EST

Text to Finlay (8:39am): Taneth's okay.

*Attached photo of Taneth sleeping curled up with a large shaggy gray otterhound and belligerent oriental rooster.*

Text to Finlay (8:40am): I know you won't believe me but it's kind of a good thing. She keeps having these meltdowns and can't say what's causing them. If I can figure out what happens to trigger them, I can maybe get there to figure out what's got her so shattered.

Text to Finlay (8:43am): Because you can tell me what you said, and that's a little more information.

Text to Finlay (8:45am): But you're going to be kissing some cute little Taneth Butt. Don't worry, it's a pretty butt. Haha

Text to Finlay (8:47am): Go to Adriana's (I think that's it) Bakery. Cupcakes, pretty cookies, macarons, mini cakes and pies.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-24 13:40 EST

Benjamin stared a black crow sitting on his knee and spoke slowly and clearly to the bird, who regarded his words with comic tips and tilts of head.

"Okay, Link. Lirenel and I went back to the alley where Jackie and I were attacked. A second assassin showed up and shot Lirenel in the shoulder. We killed the second assassin. I mostly healed Lirenel, but he's still weak."

The crow creeled, and Benjamin dutifully stuffed bacon into his beak.

"Something happened later at the inn, and Taneth had a melt down. She's okay, too. But I don't know what happened."

More bacon.

"Finley thinks Zen is Jack's daughter."

Benjamin snickered softly, and after a final piece of bacon, he took Link onto his wrist and tossed the bird to the sky. Sent him to find Jack.

David Starling · Date: 2015-01-24 13:44 EST

Text to Zhe: (0647) Sorry baby. Work went long.

Text to Zhe: (0647) Set some fires. Smashed my phone.

Text to Zhe: (0648)Got a new one. Hate box stores.

Text to Zhe: (0648) Remembered ur number. Where u at?

Jack Scot · Date: 2015-01-24 13:49 EST

Sometime later. Who can say when. The Crow is involved. Link finds himself in Faerie.

The Crow paused Court proceedings for a moment so he might stare at Link and ask one single question.

"Who the hell is Zen?"

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-01-24 22:27 EST

Text to David: (10:20 PM) work does that; sorry didn't see you. My brother had issues and I spent the day with him. I have to hit the library tomorrow. Need to catch up on my philosophy class assignments. Prof is a taskmaster! Meet me for breakfast, Monday?

David Starling · Date: 2015-01-24 23:45 EST

Text to Zhe: (2341) Damn girl. Choose philosphy over me?

((spelling error intentional))

FinMack · Date: 2015-01-25 01:52 EST

Text to Ben: Should I text her?

Text to Ben: I told her that Antonia liked to pretend to be mean, that it be a secret that she be so sweet. That it was a game.

Text to Ben: I never meant to upset her.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-25 14:17 EST

Text to Finlay (8:23am): Ohh. I think I understand what had her shaken up.

Text to Finlay (8:25am): When you come by to see little red, we can talk.

Text to Finlay (8:26am): Have you named her yet?

*attached photo of a cute little red roan mare chasing a large black vanner around a field.*

Text to Pharlen (8:27am): You said to text if I needed help, so... I need help.

Bran FD · Date: 2015-01-25 16:49 EST

Text to Zhe: (4:47) Still at the Library? I'm going to check on Da. Meet me?

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-01-25 19:23 EST

Text to David: (no time stamp) What a funny question. Yeah, this time. Socrates said, ?There is only one good, knowledge, and one evil, ignorance?

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-01-25 19:24 EST

Text to Bran: (7:24 PM) On my way, bro.

Ketch Creeley · Date: 2015-01-27 01:18 EST

1:07 a.m.
Location: Corner of a defunct pest control service.

http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag62/ketchcreeley/cat-mouse_zps96e611dc.jpg

(source unknown)

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-27 15:28 EST

Text to Taneth (9:10am): This is Benjamin, I'm texting you. I'm okay.

Text to Taneth (9:12am): http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/dc/Runt_and_Paxie.jpg

Jackie Von Tombs · Date: 2015-01-27 16:59 EST

A letter on lovely gothic stationary, delivered via little brother...

Dear Princess,

I am SO RELIEVED, I still can't believe I did something so stupid. I know, I get feeling like I'm totally indestructible because I almost am (wonder twin amazeballs daughter of the giants fist bump!), but ... Well.

I guess I said the right things to Daddy, he's easing off the hard ass and gave me my car keys back, but just for school so far. Mum's still waiting for something, so I have to wrack my brain for it.

I saw that interview hahah Poor Benji! But now I have to send Des to get me the comics because last time I went into the Land of the Nerds, I slugged some human sofa for drooling something about girls shouldn't read comics. Just because I'm a delicate and lovely little lady doesn't mean I don't want to look at hot muscly super heroes.

I can't wait to read the blog! I'll have to torture Des into printing it out for me. Or I guess I could be nice to him, but he's even more suspicious when I am. But it's his fault, he turned me into a big blue frog last time I was nice to him, so I ate him. Mom made me cough him up, though.

Payphone's are from the dawn of history when people had to be hard wired into their phones, and you put money in them to make them work. They're kind of cool now.

I made Des enspell this letter so only you can read the words, it'll just say "mind your own business, twerp!" when Hawk reads it. Des's got the study or whatever someone did for our time-thing, I don't think we can teach it, but Des knows more about it. I suck at it.

Going to go talk to Mum now, I think I know what she wants to hear now! <3 <3 <3!

I'm so glad you don't hate me!

Love, Jackie

(PS tell me if Hawk gets Des to reverse the spell, I'll wedgie him so hard he'll taste his unders!)

Taneth · Date: 2015-01-27 20:21 EST

Unfortunately, Benji did not receive a reply to his text as the Taneth merely hid from her phone as soon as a sound other than the flower game came through.

It might be whispered on the wind, for those that listen closely enough, that she tossed the pink thing out the window and crawled under her coziest blanket and murmured how the flower game does not make such sounds.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-01-27 22:16 EST

Text to Ben (7:14 p.m.): Had a blast tonight. Thanks! And let Taneth know her phone should be coming back to your living room by sun rise.

Text to Ben (7:15 p.m.): Or just surprise her with it ;-)

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-28 20:07 EST

Text to Thorn (5:12pm): Glad you enjoyed, it got a little weird after you left.

Text to Thorn (5:13pm): Turns out I have no problem going all English Manners on other people's kids.

Text to Thorn (5:15pm): Which is probably better than going NA Mom on them. Do you still have nightmares of the Flip Flop, too? XD

Text to Thorn (5:17pm): What I should have done in the first place, using sound caps from Plants vs Zombies for Taneth's phone once I get home.

Lirenel · Date: 2015-01-28 23:51 EST

Text to Benjamin: (11:30 PM) Aiy anwyl dy, fiy kesa.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-29 00:16 EST

Text to Lirenel: (11:32pm) Coming home now, my heart.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-01-29 18:11 EST

Text to Ben (3:09 p.m.): Weird because of lecturing other peoples's children? Or was there another level of weird that I should be worried about?
Text to Ben (3:10 p.m.): I, actually don't think I remember ever going to NA. This is assuming you mean Narcotics Anonymous.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-29 20:41 EST

Text to Thorn (6:00pm): Whole other level of weird. Fae were involved.

Text to Thorn (6:03pm): **Photograph of a beautiful middle aged Arapaho woman wearing a gorgeous red Chanel suit, pitching a Manolo pump at the camera, an expression of outraged amusement on her face.**

Text to Thorn (6:05pm): After I asked her for a photo of her wielding her mighty flip flop to help keep me in line when I left home.

Text to Thorn (6:08pm): I swear she can pitch that thing around corners.

Text to Thorn (6:10pm): Thank you again for giving that mare to Fin.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-01-30 01:42 EST

Text to Ben (10:38 p.m.): Oh. Hopefully there's nothing that can't be surgically removed involved.

Text to Ben (10:39 p.m.): At least not without pictures, and popcorn and boozed up tea for the retelling.

Text to Ben (10:40 p.m.): Also, NOW I remember flip-flops. Kind of. My gramma didn't mess around much, she had a barrel racer's crop that she use. Usually it popped more than it hurt, but sometimes, well, sometimes there was no way in hell it was popping more than hurting. Or she'd have us go cut our own switch.

Text to Ben (10:42 p.m.): You're very welcome dearling. Both of you. How could I not when I saw how well they clicked? She'd never have given me quite as much as she gave him. They're a damn fine combination.

Lirenel · Date: 2015-01-30 08:37 EST

Text to Benjamin: (8:35 AM) You left. I am alone. In bed. The day is too bright already. Lunch in your trailer today? You are working...?

(8:35 AM) by the way, that picture of your mother that you sent to Thorn would make a lovely poster for your father for his birthday. Or maybe a talisman to ward off teenagers... (She's beautiful, my darling, but I would never wish to incur her wrath!)

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-30 12:36 EST

Text to Lirenel: (8:55 AM) I'm at work and you're home alone in bed, my imagination is working overtime now. Lunch would be fab, my upstairs room with the chaise.

Text to Lirenel: (9:00 AM) Can you stay, another water stunt in the afternoon. I trust the riggers and stunt team, I trust you more.

Text to Lirenel: (9:55 AM) Mum's the best. Now I wonder if I can coax her into a photoshoot as a warrior queen for Da. Or am I going into a weird place?

Text to Lirenel: (9:57 AM) Mind is now stuck in details of a photoshoot of a hot blond elf golden knight. See you in an hour, my heart.

Lirenel · Date: 2015-01-30 19:00 EST

Text to Benjamin: (11:55) I adore the chaise, especially now that lunch is you.

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-01-31 12:49 EST

text to Bran: come to campus with me

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-01-31 14:00 EST

Painstakingly written upside-down on Lirenel's chest in glittery red lip-liner...

Catch me if you can. I'll be the lad inappropriately dressed for the weather. Love, Benjamin

Having cast down that gauntlet, Benjamin threw his cloak over his shoulders and trotted out, a wicked grin on his face. He figured he might have an hour or so lead time before the elf woke and came after him.

Bran FD · Date: 2015-01-31 14:03 EST

Text to Zhe: (1:33) Did you change my ringtone? Never, EVER touch my phone. How did you even--no, never mind. Have YOU ever awakened to "I'm the king of the animals"? I swear ...

Text to Zhe: (No time stamp) Stepping through the 'scape. Aren't you working, today?

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-01-31 14:09 EST

text to Bran: (nts) Baby! Girls b-ball 2nite. U'll love it.

Ketch Creeley · Date: 2015-01-31 19:21 EST

Text to Fin: Where u been?

Text to Fin: Seen the Mouth twice without you now. And extra surly, too.

Text to Fin: Everything okay?

Taneth · Date: 2015-01-31 20:21 EST

So Fin never returned to Benji's the previous night. The next day, however, Benjamin would be hear whispers among flowers that Fin was at Taneth's and he needed to bring clothes.

FinMack · Date: 2015-01-31 22:26 EST

Did he get cell reception at Taneth's? It had been awhile since he looked at his phone anyway so it might be a day or so later when Ketch finally heard anything back.

Text to Ketch: No.

Text to Ketch: **** all.

Lirenel · Date: 2015-01-31 23:09 EST

The pen slid over the cream paper. It didn't scratch, didn't catch because the polished silver nib gleamed new beneath the brown ink.

I saw your message,

the elf wrote, his calligraphic hand flowed in cursive perfection across the page. He paused. The fine art of handwriting all but gone from a modern world that preferred cells, mobiles, and other electronic bits dragged forth a sigh.

I carry it yet. I shall have you again very, very soon, my heart, never fear.

Always yours,
LFD

He pinned the note to the front door as he melted into the landscape in search of a lad dressed all too inappropriately for the weather.

David Starling · Date: 2015-02-01 01:30 EST

Text to Zhe: (caller unknown, nts) Someone asks, I was with you last night.

Text to Zhe: (caller unknown, nts) We fucked all night.

Text to Zhe: (caller unknown, nts) I wish. I will have you for breakfast soon.

Text to Zhe: (caller unknown, nts) ?I speak for the trees for the trees have no tongues.?

Text to Zhe: (caller unknown, nts) That's philosophy, baby.

Text to Zhe: (caller unknown, nts) Delete these txts.

When/if Zhe tries to return the texts, the number is out of service.

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-02-01 12:56 EST

She stared at her phone a long time. She's dr a mental not of the date, then deleted the texts.

Over the next few hours, hand drawn posters --the words very artsy-- appeared on kiosks all over campus:

"I speak for the trees, for the trees have no tongues."

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-02-01 14:46 EST

Written on pastel pink stationary bordered with teeny tiny living flowers, in a bright contrasting pink ink...

Dear Jackie,

I haven't gotten a text from you, so I guess whatever you thought your mom wanted to hear wasn't it. I miss you. You are the only one that understands.

Hawk and I represented the Court at Lady Summalee Mys'tra'livalayan blah blah blah Winter's Salon last week. We had to dress up and everything. I looked fat. Mom said I was beautiful. Daddy was busy. Hawk agreed with me.

Everyone talked to Hawk. I don't know how he can spend his whole life in his room and still have everyone's attention. All the girls loved him. No one would talk to me. It was horrible. I had the worst time. I stopped at the Red Dragon Inn before going, and even Benjamin and Taneth were too busy to notice me. It sucks being invisible. But when I am noticed, I want to hide.

I haven't seen Bran in forever. I miss him. I hate Winter.

Des delivered your letter with no delays that I know of. We have to be careful. Hawk is very good at tearing things apart to know how they work. That includes spells.

Kisses and hearts!

~ Princess

Jackie Von Tombs · Date: 2015-02-01 15:02 EST

Text to PinkiePie (12:03pm): Mum didn't say I couldn't make Des text for me on his phone!

Text to PinkiePie (12:06pm): OMG you're not fat! (your totally not fat PINKIE PIE)

Text to PinkiePie (12:07pm): YOU'RE

Text to PinkiePie (12:10pm): You should see Jackie going NNNGGNGNGNGNGNGN wanting to take my phone from me, haha. I can type whatever I want.

Text to PinkiePie (12:12pm): Monday she's free. But not if she doesn't stop hitting me!

Text to PinkiePie (12:15pm): SHE ENTERED ME IN A PET CONTEST. Not texting for her any more!

Text to PinkiePie (12:17pm): I don't believe Hawk talked to girls. Unless someone turned them into hot goth chicks.

Text to PinkiePie (12:20pm): This is Jackie now I'm a big butt and Im a jeraslkfjIIOSJUDL:Kj@()*$)_@@_.

Text to PinkiePie (12:22pm): That was not me! This is Me! Mum's home, I'll get my phone back now I did the laundry, Mum hates doing laundry.

Bran FD · Date: 2015-02-02 16:01 EST

Recited several times by Brandon as he chopped wood Monday afternoon on Benjamin's property. Perhaps overheard by anyone in the stables... perhaps by anyone in the house... perhaps by no one at all.

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

---
Invictus - William Ernest Henley

Lirenel · Date: 2015-02-03 11:13 EST

Text to Benjamin: (11:00 AM) Xanaaaaaado, XanaaaaaaaDOOOOO Ooo OOOO

Text to Benjamin: (11:23)
...from this chasm, with ceaseless turmoil seething,
As if this earth in fast thick pants were breathing,
A mighty fountain momently was forced:
Amid whose swift half-intermitted burst
Huge fragments vaulted like rebounding hail,
Or chaffy grain beneath the thresher?s flail:
And mid these dancing rocks at once and ever
It flung up momently the sacred river...

Can you guess why this makes me think of you?

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-03 12:29 EST

Text to Lirenel (11:25am): I can't wait. I think I'll go blond for that. Powder blue Angel Flight suit!

Text to Lirenel (11:27am): I have a few guesses. I'm off early today I'll come find you and see if I'm right.

Text to Lirenel (11:29am): My heart. My heart.

Text to Lirenel (11:30am): You just made everything better. Everything.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-03 14:19 EST

Text to Ben (11:15 a.m.): So, I know you're supposed to watch what you eat and all, but...I happen to have, again, an overabundance of cakes and sweet treats. Want some of the over flow?

Attached Image:
http://img1.southernliving.timeinc.net/sites/default/files/image/2012/12/carrot-cake-pancakes-l.jpg
--------

Text to Pharlen, Jackie, Des (11:20 a.m.): Been playing make-believe with Rosie and there's a boat load of cakes and sweets left over. Want some of the excess?

(The image was attached to everyone's text, because she's evil like that.)

Jackie Von Tombs · Date: 2015-02-03 14:21 EST

Text to Thorn (11:20): OMG. DO WANT!

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-03 15:12 EST

Text to Jackie (11:35 a.m.): Putting together a basket for you, and it's going to be loaded. =D

Ketch Creeley · Date: 2015-02-03 16:00 EST

Text to Benji: This is Ketch. Swiped your number from Fin's phone the other night. He said you'd been trying to help him.

Text to Benji: Didn't hear from him yesterday. He left before dawn. Found some things in my place that concerned me. You seen him?

Text to Benji:Got another issue to handle tonight that will put me out of range. Will you keep an eye on him?

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-03 16:15 EST

For a time the crow that'd taken to following the redneck shared tales of pretty dresses and lacy confections and laughter and patient animal sighs.

And as a reward for joining in the fun, the redneck took the bird to the her island. Where a tropical summer reigned between seasonal squalls. An earthly place, where no one had permanent residence and the only bipeds were either dry legged mermaids, or visitors, Roadkill was a feast for the senses.

The experience much more likely to be shared than a bowl full of chubby, tender tasties.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-03 17:27 EST

Text to Thorn (2:33PM): ...maybe a little... I think I just gained a few pounds licking my phone screen.

Text to Ketch (2:35PM): I'm doing the best I can, but he's not where he can hear me. My heart breaks for him. For them both.

Text to Ketch (2:37PM): Be safe.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-03 18:05 EST

Text to Ben (3:04 p.m.): We'll ride more, and run more maybe?
Text to Ben (3:05 p.m.): Or I could try to control the compulsive need I have to feed people when I like them.
Text to Ben (3:06 p.m.): Maybe both.

David Starling · Date: 2015-02-05 23:23 EST

Text to Zen: (unknown number, 01:11) Pancakes?

Text to Zen: (unknown number, 01:12) At that place.

Text to Zen: (unknown number, 01:12) Should be open, yeah?

Text to Zen: (unknown number, 01:42) I'm waiting, baby. Where u at?

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-02-06 12:15 EST

to David (nts): had to dodge the white knight -you still there?

second message, a few minutes later: garbled wingdings and then: --ing liar! He said he went home!

David Starling · Date: 2015-02-06 13:26 EST

text to Zen: (nts) on my way to save the day

text to Zen: (nts) night whatev

text to Zen morning???

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-02-06 22:41 EST

To David (nts): TGIF morning-all day--I'm skipping class and spending the day with you.

David Starling · Date: 2015-02-06 23:33 EST

Text to Zen: (nts) Dress warm

Five minutes later.

Text to Zen: (nts) I'm beneath your window

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-07 14:09 EST

Text to Lirenel (8:32am): Is everything okay? I'm practicing. You should come and watch.

Text to Lirenel (8:33am): I saw them.

Text to Lirenel (8:35am): I need to work Star on Jousting, help?

----

Text to Brandon (8:38am): You okay?

----

Text to Thorn (8:40am): Ride on Sunday or Monday?

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-07 14:19 EST

Text to Ben (8:50 a.m.): Monday'd be good for me if it's good for y'all. Let me know when and I'll be there.

Crispin · Date: 2015-02-07 22:03 EST

To Thorn

I can't.

I'm sorry.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-07 23:32 EST

Text to Cris

Okay? Did something happen?

Crispin · Date: 2015-02-07 23:54 EST

To Thorn

No, nothing did. It's just me.

But I wasted your time, and for that I apologize.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-08 00:26 EST

Text to Cris

Let's try this then, wha sort of job are you looking for?

Kaos isn't the only place I own.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-11 02:05 EST

Text to Les (10:58 p.m.): Congratulations again on all of that. I very much enjoyed hanging out and talking with you today.
Text to Les (11:00 p.m.): Running here in the morning:
https://41.media.tumblr.com/74d86eff85add86dd0e5114da8761966/tumblr_njl5hjfBek1trxee1o1_540.jpg
https://41.media.tumblr.com/8acbc180c0c4efd6e9e68b8f0cc16cfd/tumblr_njb3cakrss1qers7bo1_500.jpg
Want to go with?

------
Text to Ben (11:01 p.m.): Hey. Sorry about Sunday, got tangled up in my own ego for a bit and had to bail.
Text to Ben (11:02 p.m.): I'm running here (above images are attached and sent along), invited Les to go with. You want in?
Text to Ben (11:03 p.m.): Well, you and whomever else decides to tag along with you that is. Or, you know, whomever you decide to drag along with.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-11 11:59 EST

Text to Thorn (tSu983&&8): No worry. Don't be ego shy, you're one of the kindest people I know.

Text to Thorn (tSu983&&4): Already at work but love to go there walking or running, reminds me of home.

----

Mass Text (tSu983&&1): On Location. I think I'm in a Myst Age.

Mass Text (tSu983&&1):

http://i.imgur.com/uJqGR1s.jpg

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-11 14:22 EST

Text to Ben (11:20 a.m.): Awesome! We'll hook up when you've time.
Text to Ben (11:21 a.m.): Also, I kind of want to go exploring where ever the hells you are. Like, seriously want to.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-11 17:32 EST

Mass Text (tSu983&39): Brb going to D'Ni

Mass Text (tSu983&39):http://i.imgur.com/XrX7RUV.jpg

FinMack · Date: 2015-02-11 23:14 EST

Text to Ben: I'm sorry I'm such a bastard.

Text to Ben: Thank you for everything you have done

Lirenel · Date: 2015-02-12 10:36 EST

Text to Benjamin (10:34 AM): What a lovely picture to wake up to. You know, I think I've been there before. ;-) Reminds me of Arofilios about 200 years ago.

Bed is cold without you.

Bran FD · Date: 2015-02-12 10:47 EST

Text to Brandon (8:38am): You okay?

Text to Ben (nts): Okay? I'm not sure what that even means. I breathe. I eat, I live. I miss you-know-who when I'm not with her. Zhe's got me so pissed off with this guy she's seeing.

Text to Ben (2 minutes later): Yeah, I'm fine.

Bran FD · Date: 2015-02-12 11:05 EST

Text to Lirenel (nts): Dad, you at Ben's?

Lirenel · Date: 2015-02-12 11:06 EST

Text to Bran: (11:05 AM) Yes.

Bran FD · Date: 2015-02-12 11:07 EST

Text to Lirenel (nts): Good. Don't go anywhere. I'll brt.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-12 12:46 EST

Text to Fin (tSu543&*@): You're my friend.

--------

Text to Bran (tSu523&*^): Talk later?

-------

Text to Lirenel (tSu523&#@): They keep kicking us out of the tower.

Text to Lirenel (tSu521&$@): You are an investor, you should come and oversee the shoot at lunch. They rented a houseboat for us. No clue how they got it up/in here.

Bran FD · Date: 2015-02-12 13:29 EST

Reply to Benjamin (nts): Yeah, I'd like that. I'm with Da. He says to tell you we'll both come by after lunch. That okay?

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-12 13:33 EST

Text to Bran (tSu523&@*): Great! careful getting here, I really don't know where we are.

Ketch Creeley · Date: 2015-02-12 13:59 EST

12:34 a.m.
Location: Abandoned paper mill

http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag62/ketchcreeley/funny-street-wall-graffiti-law1_zpse7c32687.jpg

(image via google image search, no credit available.)

Ketch Creeley · Date: 2015-02-12 14:04 EST

1:30 a.m. (with no time to spare for apostrophes, evidently.)
Location: Side of a convenience store two miles away from the abandoned paper mill.

http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag62/ketchcreeley/tumblr_niew2q7oPm1sxxku2o1_500_zps3e7c5e2c.jpg

(image via google image search)

Sabine · Date: 2015-02-14 03:09 EST

Text to Fin: Don't think I didn't notice you go. Come see me tomorrow? Food and movies? We could practice our guitars for a bit. Don't forget how much your friends love you. <3

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-14 12:38 EST

Text to Ben (9:37 a.m.): Feel like taking that walk?

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-14 14:45 EST

Text to Thorn (9:56 a.m.): Sure, let me find clothes. Meet you by your corral in about twenty.

FinMack · Date: 2015-02-14 15:45 EST

Text to Sabine: I'm fine. See you later.

This text was sent the morning after it was received.

FinMack · Date: 2015-02-14 15:50 EST

Text to Ben: What is this Valentines Day? I don't understand.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-14 16:44 EST

Text to Fin (1:37pm): I'm not really sure. I think it's to sell candy and cards and such.

Text to Fin (1:38pm): We always called it Half Price Chocolate Day.

Text to Fin (1:40pm): A day for romance which doesn't make sense with a Catholic saint name? Or maybe it does?

--------

Text to Lirenel (1:45pm) Challenge Accepted.

Ketch Creeley · Date: 2015-02-14 21:30 EST

1:48 a.m., Feb. 14th.
Location: Wall between a greeting card shop and a confectionery.

http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag62/ketchcreeley/tumblr_n11yvpOu181t0ndk1o1_500_zpsa3947d2a.jpg

(Image credit: Banksy; thanks to Sabine for the find.)

DA TENTACLE · Date: 2015-02-15 01:17 EST

Location: Fire hydrant outside 'Subtexts' Comic Shop

http://i.imgur.com/bHlOR5d.jpg

FinMack · Date: 2015-02-15 14:11 EST

Text to Ben: Want to talk to you about Taneth. I be worried for her. How are you?

FinMack · Date: 2015-02-15 14:22 EST

Text to Ketch: I'm sorry about last night. I will understand if you don't want me to come around anymore.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-15 15:25 EST

Text to Fin (12:21pm): I'll be around. Taneth's just got to work things through, all we can really do is be there for her and let her know she can lean on us if she needs to. I don't think she knows that she can yet. :/

Text to Fin (12:23pm): I'm good, spent most of yesterday sleeping. So glad the side project filming is done.

Ketch Creeley · Date: 2015-02-15 15:46 EST

Text to Fin: Gonna kick your *** next time you apologize. But srs stop before it loses meaning.

FinMack · Date: 2015-02-15 16:15 EST

Text to Ben: I'll be by later today to ride, after I visit Lucy. I will tell her you said hello.

Text to Ben: I be glad it's over, too. Want to see more of you. I'll sleep over tonight.

***********************************************

Text to Ketch: Help me with something? Tonight, meet me at bar in West End.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-15 21:24 EST

Text to Ben (6:24p.m.): Would y'all like to go riding again in the morning?

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-16 12:39 EST

Text to Thorn (9:32am): At work, meet me at your corral at noon? Need to pick your brain.

----

Text to Fin (9:35am): There will be a Scottish Gramma there to take over for my housekeeper while she has the baby. Be forewarned.

Text to Fin (9:36am): Oops, she got there about an hour ago, good luck. Hahahaha!

-----

Text to Brad (9:37am): Grab your Da and come sign papers so you can intern. We really don't have to sign in blood.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-16 12:40 EST

Text to Ben (9:40 a.m.): I'll be there. And I'll wait until then to ask the obvious questions.

Bran FD · Date: 2015-02-17 10:14 EST

Text to Ben (10:12) got caught up with research; excited!!!! Even blood is okay with me! 👍

Luna Eva · Date: 2015-02-18 18:43 EST

The following announcement was displayed in the front window of the clinic offices of WestEnd Med, and posted, at least briefly, on a couple of local bulletin boards:

NOTICE

WestEnd Med is NOT providing "Grandmother Flu" vaccinations at this time. Clinic staff is currently researching the threat-level and prevalence of the "Grandmother Flu" strain, and will make no recommendations on vaccinations until research is complete and a reliable source of inoculations has been located. In the meantime, WestEnd Med recommends that the usual good-health precautions are taken during this cold and flu season, including regular hand-washing, avoiding contact with the infected, and keeping your home and surroundings clean.

If you have any questions, please contact us at 76-349-2288 or at
101 Ave. Dillinger, WestEnd, Rhy'Din 832C

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-21 11:03 EST

Text to Princess, Hawk (6:36am): I need help. I don't know how to hide these wings again. I've wacked them on everything in this house twice at least.

Text to Princess, Hawk (6:38am): I will bring you pizza, Dr. Pepper, M&Ms, Cadbury eggs. Help. Please.

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-02-22 13:12 EST

Text to Benjamin: (nts) Come over. We'll rescue you!

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-22 13:26 EST

Text to Ben (10:22 a.m.): I'm going hunting, a friend asked me to set up his birthday feast and, well, it's going to be reallydamnbig.

Text to Ben (10:23 a.m.): He wants a royal/high type feast very medieval and elaborate. This means lots of meat.

Text to Ben (10:24 a.m.): Is there anything you need for your larder, or do you want to go with? Either way, let me know.

--------------

Text to Jak (10:25 a.m.): Going hunting for the meat for your feast. Is there anything in particular you want? Is there anything you need for right now in the way of meat?

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-22 14:57 EST

Text to Thorn (10:26am): Oh wow. I'd love to hunt with you, but I've got a uhm well, I'm still figuring these wings out.

Text to Thorn (10:28am): I'd love a few muntjac, because I can't hunt them. I just want to make them into pets. But they are delicious.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-22 16:00 EST

Text to Ben (10:30 a.m.): It's probably bad that I want to tie a rope to your foot and find a nice windy spot isn't it?

Text to Ben (10:31 a.m.): Also: Wings?!? The fuck did I miss wings?

Text to Ben (10:32 a.m.): Muntjac, got it. I'll see if I can bag a couple for you.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-22 19:02 EST

Text to Thorn (11:30am): YES IT IS. And do NOT give Jack any ideas!

Text to Thorn (11:32am): Wings. You know. Sir Paul McCartney's old band. THUNDERBIRDS ARE GO.

Text to Thorn (11:35am): I think I've got the hang of this glamor stuff. I hope.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-22 21:32 EST

Text to Ben (6:29 p.m.): You're in luck on the muntjac, got you three fat bastidges.

Text to Ben (6:30 p.m.): Butbutbutbut! It's a blast, really it is. Especially if you have someone towing you around an air strip with a Ford pickup at the same time

Text to Ben (6:31 p.m.): ... Okay, that one's a long story. But it was hell'a fun!

Text to Ben (6:32 p.m.): Oh! Now, okay, I get it. Sometimes the blonde is pretty stereotypical.

Text to Ben (6:33 p.m.): Hang out soon?

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-23 11:33 EST

Text to Thorn (6:29am): I'll be home till Weds. NO TRUCKS!

----

Text to Fin (6:31am): About all the feathers...? Well. They're mine.

----

Text to Bran, Hawk, Princess (6:34am): It's done. (http://rdi.dragonsmark.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=204052#204052) Don't share YET.

---

Text to Bran (6:37am): You and I go back for still shots later. I hope you remember how to get there.

---

Text to Lirenel (6:40am): My heart. Come watch the telly with me.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-23 12:41 EST

Text to Ben (6:50 a.m.): Hahahaha! No trucks, promise. When/if you're up for it, we'll go flying together if you'd like.

Lirenel · Date: 2015-02-23 13:01 EST

Text to Benjamin (6:41 AM) Look behind you.

Bran FD · Date: 2015-02-23 13:07 EST

Text to Ben (1:05 PM): Oh, that's frickin' awesome. I knew it would be good. Can't wait to go back for still shots. Something about that place...

No worries. I remember how to get there.

Bran FD · Date: 2015-02-23 21:39 EST

Text to Joy (tMos433$+#): <3<3<3<3 Guess where I am! This is so AMAZING! I'm on the top of the world, my Princess. I adore you. I worship you. I love you.<3<3<3<3

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-02-23 21:51 EST

Text to Benjamin: (nts) OMG!! Romance Explosion!!!!!

Text to Benjamin: (nts)I need to make Aurora's dress.

Text to Benjamin: (nts) I have fabric samples for you. Come over soon.

Text to Benjamin: (nts) Bran is going out with you later. He loves working with you so much. Keep him safe.

Text to Benjamin: (nts) I know you will.

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-02-23 22:13 EST

Text to Bran: (nts) <3 <3 <3 <3 ?You are all the colors in one, at full brightness.? <3 <3 <3 <3

Text to Bran: (nts) That's from a book I'm reading. I'll show you.

Text to Bran: (nts) When you come over. You're coming over.

Text to Bran: (nts) Right? I told Benji to keep you safe.

Text to Bran: (nts) You can show me the shots you worked on.

Text to Bran: (nts) Help me with the MGoR blog? Bring your pix over so I can use some.

Text to Bran: (nts) Bran?

Text to Bran: (nts) <3 <3

Text to Bran: (nts) Are you busy? I love you!

Jak Siv · Date: 2015-02-24 16:01 EST

Text to Thorn: Type of meat? I...Like fish. Just nice fish is good enough for me. :) Thank you again, you are too kind to me!

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-24 16:06 EST

Text to Jak: I'm going with, one of these:

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EO66XPf3pKI/Tt0zCjhOsuI/AAAAAAAACU8/j_5kPq3K-JM/s1600/2010-23-2-4-179.jpg

Jak Siv · Date: 2015-02-24 16:09 EST

Text to Thorn: ......Can I live with you and Roan now?

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-24 16:12 EST

Text to Jak: Aww! I'll ask.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-02-25 08:58 EST

Text to Ben, Jak Siv, Mav: If you, or anyone you know, is interested in giving modeling a shot a friend of mine is setting up to be part of Fashion Week again this year. She's looking for male and female models, and her designs are frigging awesome. Mai Silverblood's her name, and she has a shop in the Marketplace.

FinMack · Date: 2015-02-26 00:26 EST

Text to Ben: Yours? Not from the birds?

Text to Ben: You are my friend.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-02-26 11:17 EST

Text to Fin (5:12am): Mine. The black and white ones.

Text to Fin (5:13am): I guess it's like when your wisdom teeth come in, and you didn't know you even had them.

Text to Fin (5:15am): Except they're wings.

Text to Fin (5:17am): You are my friend. My brother. I'm sorry I haven't been around, things are a little crazy right now, and yes, that's my fine English talent of understatement showing.

Text to Fin (5:23am):
http://i.imgur.com/G135J3H.jpg

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-02 21:00 EST

Text to Zen (4:12pm): Call me. Or come by.

Nicholas · Date: 2015-03-04 10:36 EST

https://40.media.tumblr.com/b9e5cf07364ddde9c25eb27f18c70d2e/tumblr_nkp1ti9IX81unzioso1_400.jpg

WestEnd Alley.

Nicholas · Date: 2015-03-04 10:44 EST

Voicemail

"David," annoyance laced the caller's tone. "Where the **** are you? I've some, ah, developments to discuss. Do not text me, for God's sake. Meet me. You know where. Or maybe you don't."

The message included muffled rustling for at least two minutes after the voice ceased speaking. A splash, the blare of a horn and a great deal of cursing which became clear as the rustling ceased. The tap-tap of 'dialing' and the discovery: "****! I always forget to hit end."

Taneth · Date: 2015-03-08 17:53 EST

A few letters in Taneth's script floated along the winds until they would eventually reach Benjamin Piers and Jack Scot. The following words were scribbled on the pages:

When I think back
On these times
And the dreams
We left behind
I'll be glad 'cause
I was blessed to get
To have you in my life
When I look back
On these days
I'll look and see your face
You were right there for me

In my dreams
I'll always see you soar
Above the sky
In my heart
There will always be a place
For you for all my life
I'll keep a part
Of you with me
And everywhere I am
There you'll be
And everywhere I am
There you'll be

Well you showed me
How it feels
To feel the sky
Within my reach
And I always
Will remember all
The strength you
Gave to me
Your love made me
Make it through
Oh, I owe so much to you
You were right there for me

_______________________________

Artist: Faith Hill
Lyrics written by: Diane Warren

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-13 21:29 EST

Text to Lirenel (2:18) Beat up Winnie's new ex boyfriend. Off to the ER, not badly hurt.

Text to Lirenel (2:19) I thought she was dating Mark. I suspect they're having drama.

-------
Text to Fin (3:20pm) Miss seeing you. Are you okay?

------
Text to Lirenel (5:15pm) I got arrested! Still signing stuff for their charity auction, too. My heart, my love.

Text to Lirenel (5:24pm) Coming home now.

FinMack · Date: 2015-03-15 17:21 EST

Text to Ben: I will come see u more, I am sorry.

Text to Ben: Tried the candle today alone.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-16 12:01 EST

Text to Fin (6:32am): One day at a time.

Text to Fin (6:34am): Come by tonight I've got Benny Hill.

Text to Fin (6:37am): Trust me. >:)

David Starling · Date: 2015-03-17 12:25 EST

Voicemail

Hey, Nicholas. Just got back from almost heaven. No mobile service up there. I'm heading over now if it's not too late.

Ketch Creeley · Date: 2015-03-18 00:15 EST

Time: 3:00 a.m.
Location: Entrance to WestEnd sector morgue.

http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag62/ketchcreeley/Screen%20Shot%202015-03-17%20at%2011.09.08%20PM_zpsg6orec7m.png

Shae Stormchild · Date: 2015-03-18 10:00 EST

In odd places where eyes might rest, outside bars and houses of night. Letters that at first seem unfamiliar, but on second look are in the tongue most familiar to you. A simple warning, not for the eyes of the dead. Only those with a heartbeat may read the painted warning.

Heed the curfew. Do not walk alone. Do not meet the eyes of the pale woman.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-03-18 15:16 EST

Text to Ben (12:16 p.m.): I have a picnic basket full of food, and I'm kicked by the corral. Lunch?

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-18 15:18 EST

Text to Thorn (12:18 p.m.): Sure thing, be right there.

Dair McRae · Date: 2015-03-18 16:39 EST

Text to Thorn: It's a go if you're still interested. Also found out you know Fin Mackenzie. I work with him. Get in touch with either of us. Thanks, talk soon.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-03-18 17:20 EST

Text to Dair: Hey hi! Awesome! I'm definitely still interested! And am really looking forward to the collaboration.

And yes, yes I know Fin. Well, kinda hung out around him a couple times, exchanged names, gave him a horse.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-03-19 14:48 EST

Text to Dair: Okay, don't kill me but, I want the bottom portion of the fencing panels to be treated oak, and the top to be like this:

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d6/0d/c8/d60dc8ff98393c607174e3b518c76b10.jpg

For the gates, I want a grille like this, but without the colors:
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7yqwtgUrffM/T5EX_gpfmEI/AAAAAAAAORA/HEsiJ-oPKuw/s1600/DoorWinodw.jpg

What do you think?
I know the woodwork's going to need to be thick as hells, and banded and reinforced to hold up to the weight, but that's kind of what I want. Something strong as hells, just in case that part of the WestEnd lights up and shit kicks off.

I know it's going to be pricey, but I've got it to spend.

And I know it'll be labor intensive, which'll add to the coin count.

You and Fin and your boss(es?) talk it over again, and get back to me? Please?

The Redneck · Date: 2015-03-19 14:53 EST

Text to Ben (11:50 a.m.): So, last week this metal smith kind of dropped into my lap (not literally, sadly) and said he'd talk to his bosses and see about doing the metal work on the fencing and gates I want for the open front of the Brambles.

He may be regretting getting the go ahead now.

This is the top six foot of the tri-fold fencing, or it's what I really want:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d6/0d/c8/d60dc8ff98393c607174e3b518c76b10.jpg

The bottom four feet are going to be really thick oak, banded and reinforced.

Over the, oak again, gates, this grille, without the colors:

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7yqwtgUrffM/T5EX_gpfmEI/AAAAAAAAORA/HEsiJ-oPKuw/s1600/DoorWinodw.jpg

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-19 17:51 EST

Text to Thorn (12:12pm): Fab!

Text to Thorn (12:14pm): Bottom panel, can there be a silver bell hung in the center there? Not iron. Brass or tin or something.

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-03-19 23:04 EST

Voicemail to Ben:

Hey, sorry I didn't get your message until today. I was away over Spring Break and then my phone broke. Got a new one. Let me know if you still want to talk or ... whatever.

Oh. Uh-- it's Zhe.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-19 23:53 EST

Text to Zhe (8:35pm): Zhe. Thank goodness. I was worried about you. Of course I want to talk or meet.

Text to Zhe (8:38pm): Just say when.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-03-20 02:11 EST

Text to Ben (11:10 p.m.): Don't see why not. Silver colored, or silver-silver?

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-03-21 14:01 EST

Text to Ben: (nts) Lots to study this weekend. Wanna do lunch Monday? Name the place.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-21 18:10 EST

Text to Thorn (4:56pm): Tin.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Text to Zhe (5:00pm): Cassidy's Pub *link to address*

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-03-23 13:40 EST

Text to Ben (nts) I'm running late

David Starling · Date: 2015-03-23 14:14 EST

Text to Zhe: (2:08 p.m.) ?I celebrate myself, and sing myself,
And what I assume you shall assume,
For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you.?

Text to Zhe: (2:13 p.m.) Drop your fork and think of me.

Text to Zhe: (2:15 p.m.) How long are you going to be?

Text to Zhe: (2:18 p.m.) Can I beat him up?

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-03-23 14:22 EST

Text to David (2:22) NO

David Starling · Date: 2015-03-23 14:24 EST

Text to Zhe: (2:23 p.m.) Why so mean, baby?

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-03-23 14:58 EST

Text to David: (2:56) phtt U like it

Lirenel · Date: 2015-03-23 15:50 EST

Text to Benjamin:

My ears are burning ...

David Starling · Date: 2015-03-23 15:53 EST

Text to Zhe: (3:52 p.m.) When can I see you?

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-23 16:06 EST

Text to Lirenel (3:09pm): They should be. I'm thinking of them. ;)

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-03-23 16:29 EST

Text to David: Headed to class. See you after. Dinner?

Lirenel · Date: 2015-03-23 16:31 EST

Text to Benjamin:

Now they're tingling.

David Starling · Date: 2015-03-23 16:31 EST

Text to Zhe: (4:30 p.m.) Dinner's good. Might have to crash at your place.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-23 16:34 EST

Text to Lirenel (3:14pm): Good. Heading home and picking up groceries, meet me there. :D

Lirenel · Date: 2015-03-23 16:36 EST

Text to Benjamin:

I will beat you there!

Zen Fael · Date: 2015-03-23 16:49 EST

Text to David: (4:39 PM) No problem, furry baby.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-03-23 16:52 EST

Text to Ben (1:52 p.m.):

Tin, got it. I'm guessing the bell should have a good singing voice too. You happen to know any bellfounders?

Also, thanks for the input!

Dair McRae · Date: 2015-03-24 04:19 EST

Text to Thorn: We'll do it. Would like to meet to discuss and finalize details? Looking forward to working on this.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-03-24 08:58 EST

Text to Dair (4:45 a.m.): Yes! Uhm, today's kind of open-ish while the sun's mostly up.

Tomorrow's a slightly more definite with "after noon."

Sorry, this week's a tangle. What time tomorrow's good for you?

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-25 15:46 EST

Text to Thorn (11:45am): I don't, I know Fin works as a smith? Maybe he'd know.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-03-25 15:49 EST

Text to Ben (11:58 a.m.): Good point. I'll ask either him, when I see him, or Dair when I see him.

It's actually their smithy that's going to make the fencing panels. Just have to get a time together to sit down and hammer stuff out.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-03-26 14:22 EST

Text to Ben (11:20 a.m.): Ran into Gem last night, her baby shower is set of Tuesday evening-ish. =D

Details are incoming.

Incoming MMS message:
http://rdi.dragonsmark.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t= 28785

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-26 14:32 EST

Text to Thorn (2:30pm): Fantastic!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Text to Lirenel (2:33pm): *Forwarding Thorn's MMS*

Text to Lirenel (2:35pm): Still nothing on that incident last night.

Text to Lirenel (2:39pm): There's a pack of reporters going up and down the road. They can't find my house. You're good, my heart.

Lirenel · Date: 2015-03-27 07:57 EST

Text to Benjamin: (7:49 AM) oh ... So much pink ...

(7:52) sorry love, up all night , as you know -- prowling, among other things -- and daylight is too absurdly bright this morning.

Besides, it's we; WE are good.

The woods are nice, quiet at 5 am...but the night was long. I don't hear you in the house? I'm going back to sleep.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-27 12:45 EST

Text to Lirenel (9:45am): Be home in an hour, once I'm out of makeup.

Text to Lirenel (9:47am): I'll have them leave the horns on.

Lirenel · Date: 2015-03-31 10:23 EST

Text to Benjamin: (9:37 AM) Fiyse miljin anwyl we need more than beast eyes on the property, I see that now. Can't sleep. I think I'll come watch you work.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-03-31 15:22 EST

Text to Lirenel: (11:37 AM) save me from makeup!

The Redneck · Date: 2015-04-08 15:36 EST

Text to Ben (12:35): Love you. Tell me, please, if there's anything I can do for you. My heart aches for you, my food tastes of ashes.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-04-09 12:52 EST

Text to Thorn (12:50PM): I'm alright, I promise. I'm more worried about Jack and Fin. They're stronger than they know.

Text to Thorn (12:55PM): I'm coming to steal another of your horses.

Text to Thorn (1:03PM): I'll probably bring it back. Maybe.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-04-09 13:17 EST

Text to Ben. (1:04 p.m.): Well, I'm worried about all three of you. And I know you'll hold up and get through. You're all strong as hell.

Text to Ben. (1:05 p.m.): Watch out for the ghost brindle, he's new. But the blue eyed palomino paint could use some "may be coming back" time.

Text to Ben. (1:07 p.m.): Took a couple baskets to the Cottage today, one of nothing but cookies.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-04-09 13:36 EST

The redneck had been struck, caught by a thought, snared so strongly by a maybe that even the crow who was her near constant companion fell still and quiet and stared. Watched with her head tilting in a slow arc left then right, then back to the right, as she outlined the maybe, the possibility that'd smacked right up against her throat.

"We'll have to talk to the right people, find just the right place. It'll have to be an all day thing, no way this can be done, and done right, in just a few hours. Maybe an ongoing thing. Something that can be added to from now 'til the end of Belief." Muttering in time with the flow of pen over paper, the redneck finally decided she'd gotten down as much as she could.

Set the pen aside, long enough to slip out a thin strip of barely there paper to jot down the basic gist on. Rolled and folded and tucked the slip into a capped leather tube she then tied to the crow's leg, much to the bird's patiently amused chagrin. "Yeah yeah, I know you don't need this. But maybe I do." When the bird snickered, she rolled her eyes and stuck her tongue out at it.

"Show him, please?" After fluffing her feathers, the crow took flight. Rode the currents of Spring's warming winds and breezes to find a certain scarecrow-ribbon man and deliver the sliver of a maybe.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-04-09 17:32 EST

And later when a chortling, and damn smug crow made her return, and was happily being spoiled on a variety of wriggling pinkies, the redneck's smile bloomed to life again. Full blown and sun kissed with dimples flirting 'round the edges.

The reply comforting and easing. Soothing the mild anxiety that had tried to morph into something so much worse.

"Well then, we've a lot of planning and contacts to make between now and, sometime."

The Redneck · Date: 2015-04-16 14:06 EST

Text to Ben 11:06 a.m.): So, I'm coming to find you. Want to give me a hint or three?

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-04-16 14:09 EST

Text to Thorn (11:10 AM): Pft. And make it easy for you?

Text to Thorn (11:11 AM): I'm home but out back, testing gravity.

Text to Thorn (11:12 AM): FYI? It still works.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-04-16 14:10 EST

Text to Ben (11:10 a.m.): Hah! I'll be right there, and may bring my rubber chicken.

Lirenel · Date: 2015-04-17 12:54 EST

Text to Benjamin (12:44 PM): Fiy qa anfython, meyr... fiy tuyren...fiy wyla dy.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-04-17 15:36 EST

Text to Lirenel (12:46 PM): Lirenel. No. No. You aren't.

Text to Lirenel (12:47 PM): I'll be right there.

Lirenel · Date: 2015-04-20 13:35 EST

Letter to Princess, delivered by crow, written in an elegant hand, burgundy ink on cream colored high quality paper.

My Darling Girl,

I ask your forgiveness. I should have come to you, but I could not face you. Yes, I'm a coward. Brandon still sleeps. I know you want to go to him; but, I cannot risk you. How can I? You are neither mine nor his to risk. I can imagine your arguments and I understand your love, I do.

Please believe I am doing all I can.

Your devoted,
LFD

Beautiful Joy · Date: 2015-04-20 15:08 EST

Written in a flowery hand on thick pink stationary bordered with living pink posies:

Dear Lirenel,

Nothing and no one will keep us apart. True love conquers all.

Princess.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-04-26 16:47 EST

Text To Lirenel (11:45am): My bed's going to be a bit crowded when you get back.

Text To Lirenel (11:46): There's a fluffy little surprise waiting to meet you there.

Lirenel · Date: 2015-04-28 13:28 EST

Text to Benjamin (Noon the same day): Did you get a kitten?

Jack won't like that.

The Redneck · Date: 2015-04-29 13:23 EST

Text to Dair (10:20 a.m.): Hey sexy, how's my fencing coming along?
Haven't heard anything from you or Fin in a long while, figured I'd check in. This is not a push, shove, nudge, or rush, just a check in.

The Brambles is done, and open to the community, but there's seriously no rush on the gate. Hit me back when y'all get time yeah?

The Redneck · Date: 2015-04-29 13:26 EST

Mass text to Les, Ben, 'Lexi, 'Dair, Rei, Lucy The Brambles are open and ready. Thought I'd share.

Benjamin Piers · Date: 2015-04-29 16:09 EST

Text to Thorn (12:37pm): Come by the house. Gem has something fluffy to show you.

Text to Fin (12:38pm): Come see what Gem made.

Text to Jackie (12:39pm): Gem spawned. Tell your mum and brother. They've been at my house.

Text to Lirenel (12:40pm): On my way home, my heart.

Topic: Messages In The Aether

Benjamin Piers

Pharlen

Benjamin Piers

FinMack

Ketch Creeley

Jackie Von Tombs

Jackie Von Tombs

Zen Fael

Benjamin Piers

Beautiful Joy

Beautiful Joy

Benjamin Piers

Beautiful Joy

Benjamin Piers

Beautiful Joy

Benjamin Piers

Beautiful Joy

Benjamin Piers

Beautiful Joy

Benjamin Piers

Bran FD

Beautiful Joy

Zen Fael

Bran FD

Benjamin Piers

Benjamin Piers

David Starling

Jack Scot

Zen Fael

David Starling

FinMack

Benjamin Piers

Bran FD

Zen Fael

Zen Fael

Ketch Creeley

Benjamin Piers

Jackie Von Tombs

Taneth

The Redneck

Benjamin Piers

Lirenel

Benjamin Piers

The Redneck

Benjamin Piers

The Redneck

Lirenel

Benjamin Piers

Lirenel

Zen Fael

Benjamin Piers

Bran FD

Zen Fael

Ketch Creeley

Taneth

FinMack

Lirenel

David Starling

Zen Fael

Beautiful Joy

Jackie Von Tombs

Bran FD

Lirenel

Benjamin Piers

The Redneck

Jackie Von Tombs

The Redneck

Ketch Creeley

The Redneck

Benjamin Piers

The Redneck

David Starling

Zen Fael

David Starling

Zen Fael

David Starling

Benjamin Piers

The Redneck

Crispin