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|My big story, Ties That bind
Ties that bind: Chapter 3Ties that bind: Chapter 3 by magicia
3. Hunter's Sunstone
Peace was her ultimate goal, of that I think I can be sure. But her secondary goal, and perhaps the one most often seen, was that of justice. Not the justice of law, but of the everyday. She never let an injustice go unchallenged, whatever it might have been.
The girl crossed her arms angrily. "Hi Penelo? That's all you can say?" she huffed and poked a finger in his chest. "I have a good mind to hit you! Do you realize no one's seen you since Migelo sent you look for Kytes?" She waved her arms in exasperation. Out of the corner of his eye, Vaan saw Peach examining the gate rather intensely. Penelo's shouting quickly regained his attention however. "That was first thing this morning! The feast for the Imperials is in two days, and the guards have already started closing off the gates to travelers. They only let me through because Migelo gave me a pass!" She paused to draw in breath.
Vaan took this as an opportunity. "Tomaj gave me a pass too. He wanted me t
Ties that Bind Chapter 1Ties that Bind Chapter 1 by magicia
1. Gates
That day they first met, could she have known what was in store? The things they would face? The joys and the horrors? I doubt it. Would it have stopped her if it did? I know by now that the answer is never.
Vaan snorted as he watched the wind whip across the Estersand. Except for the city behind him, it was sand as far as the eye could see; only broken by the occasional monster, boulder, and the odd cactus or two. Or was it a cactaur? He could never tell unless they moved, and cactaurs tended to spend a lot of the daytime asleep. They didn't much appreciate
|My big story, Ties That bind
Child of light 4: MedusaThe next day dawned strangely dark. Though she didn't say it, Jack could tell that Lady Palutena was worried. She kept casting glances at the sky and eventually retreated into a room of her temple that housed what appeared to be a giant crystal pool in an urn of sorts.Child of light 4: Medusa by magicia
"Through this pool, I can watch over the entire world Jack." She smiled slightly. "It's how I found you." She frowned. "Now however, I can sense that something is wrong. Something is stirring, and I'm trying to find out what."
The pool shimmered and turned purple. Palutena took a step back in surprise. "You needn't look too far." The voice was dark and feminine.
Palutena's expression darkened. "Medusa!"
Jack leaned over the lip of the pool and caught sight of a very pale face with purple eyes sneering at them. The eyes narrowed when they spotted Jack, and the face drew back, revealing itself to be female. To Jack's surprise, the black hair was interspersed with snakes, one of them a bright gold.
"And just who might you b
You're an Umbran Harry! Ch 4"Happy Birthday darling!" Bayonetta set the large cake that Enzo's wife had made down on the table, the giant candle in the shape of the number five blazing merrily. "Blow out the candle and make a wish!"You're an Umbran Harry! Ch 4 by magicia
Jeanne, Luka, Enzo, and Bayonetta all clapped as the flame blew out. Harry laughed as a camera flash went off. "Aunt Jeanne!"
Jeanne giggled and waved the camera about. "Sorry sweetie! Have to have a picture of the birthday boy on his birthday, its tradition!"
Bayonetta glanced at the other three photos on the wall. The one for his second birthday depicted a rather large mess with a hugely grinning baby in a high-chair. Harry had still been at the stage where food was both a toy and nourishment. The resultant explosion of cake and other foods had taken several hours to clean up, though only because Jeanne had started a full-fledged food fight. Luka had proved to be a fairly good shot. The other two pictures were much less messy, and more traditional.
Luka cut the cake and started serv
You're an Umbran Harry! ch3"Hey." Luka's friendly greeting meant one of two things. Either he had had all the facts calmly explained to him, or he was too frightened of Rodin to protest. Given Rodin's usual less than talkative demeanor, Bayonetta was betting on the latter. "This the kid you stole?"You're an Umbran Harry! ch3 by magicia
Inwardly Bayonetta sighed. Definitely the latter then. Aloud, she said. "I didn't steal anything. This time anyway. He was freely given."
"Uh huh. How much of that was from you being intimidating?"
She shrugged. "Not much. His aunt seemed quite glad to be rid of him."
"Rodin said he's got someone else's soul in him."
She nodded and put Harry down on her lap, handing him one of the new toys she had bought, a large stuffed cat. Harry cooed happily and enthusiastically began to chew on one large ear. Smiling, she said, "That's why we're here today. Rodin seemed confident he could remov
You're an Umbran Harry!The night was cold, wet, and absolutely filled with Applauds and Affinities. Bayonetta grinned. "My, my! This is my kind of party! You boys are certainly out in force! What's got you lot all hot under the collar?"You're an Umbran Harry! by magicia
The lower ranking Paridisians didn't usually speak to her, but to her surprise, one of the ones near her did. In its strange garbled language it said, "The balance of power has shifted, and the chosen is corrupted."
She rolled her eyes. "Oh, not that shit again." She readied her guns.
The Applaud let out a garbled shout and swung its staff at her.
Bayonetta's smile turned feral. "Let's dance boys!"
Idly twirling one of her newly acquired halos, Bayonetta wandered down the street. She had come to England as a favor to Rodin, who said that the boys downstairs were getting very antsy over the place.
Judging by the sheer number of Paradiso angels she'd encountered so far, the concerns were justified. Not to mention the odd sights she'd seen. There had been a deluge of shooting st
Child of Light: ViridiThe next morning, Jack was awakened from the most restful sleep he'd had in perhaps thirty years by Pit knocking on the door.Child of Light: Viridi by magicia
The ever cheerful angel led him back to the dining hall saying, "Viridi's here already, and she's eager to meet you."
"She knew about this in advance?"
Pit frowned. "Well no. Lady Palutena asked to her to visit, and as soon as she found out it was about a nature spirit, Viridi was more than willing to come by." He paused. "She can be kind of prickly most of the time, but she can be really nice when she wants to be."
He opened the doors to the dining hall and led him in.
Viridi turned out to be as interested in Jack as Lady Palutena, though perhaps for different reasons. The blonde goddess rose from her seat at the table and practically glided across the room, toting a rather wicked looking staff. While Jack was trying to decide if it reminded him more of a scythe or a bird's head, Viri
Child of Light: Palutena"Pit, Pittoo-"Child of Light: Palutena by magicia
"Don't call me that."
"Well if you'd think of a name for yourself I wouldn't have to."
As Pittoo grumbled something, Pit spoke up. "What is it, Lady Palutena?"
The woman smiled. "We will be having a guest shortly. Treat him with respect."
"Who's the guest?"
Palutena smiled again. "His name is Jack Frost, and he'll be staying with us for a while at the very least."
Pit blinked. "That ice guy you've been watching?"
The green haired goddess nodded. "Yes. His proper title is Spirit of Winter however, so do try and remember it."
A bright flash of light erupting from the dais in the center of the room prevented her from further elaboration.
"And here he is!"
Jack blinked away spots and looking up, found the source of the voice to be a green haired woman that appeared to be vaguely Greek, at least
|Comment on this on the comment section and I will...
1. Respond with something random about you.
2. Tell you which colour you remind me of.
3. Tell you my first memory of you.
4. Tell you what animal you remind me of.
5. Ask you something I've always wondered about you.
6. Tell you my favourite thing about you.
7. Tell you my least favourite thing about you.
8. Challenge you to post this on your journal.
Challenged by
|I've been seeing a lot of issues lately with copyright infringement and the stealing of other people's artwork. I think says it best with
Mine and Not YoursMy art is not your stock., , and . She is of course the creator and owner of all three, and I think she makes the point very clear here, respect the rights of others!
The next day dawned strangely dark. Though she didn't say it, Jack could tell that Lady Palutena was worried. She kept casting glances at the sky and eventually retreated into a room of her temple that housed what appeared to be a giant crystal pool in an urn of sorts.
"Through this pool, I can watch over the entire world Jack." She smiled slightly. "It's how I found you." She frowned. "Now however, I can sense that something is wrong. Something is stirring, and I'm trying to find out what."
The pool shimmered and turned purple. Palutena took a step back in surprise. "You needn't look too far." The voice was dark and feminine.
Palutena's expression darkened. "Medusa!"
Jack leaned over the lip of the pool and caught sight of a very pale face with purple eyes sneering at them. The eyes narrowed when they spotted Jack, and the face drew back, revealing itself to be female. To Jack's surprise, the black hair was interspersed with snakes, one of them a bright gold.
"And just who might you be?" She sounded both wary and curious at the same time.
"Jack Frost, Madame Medusa."
Medusa blinked, looking somewhat nonplussed. Jack got the impression that she wasn't used to anyone giving her a title. After a moment she shook her head. "My quarrel is not with you. Stay out of the way and you won't get hurt."
Lady Palutena's eyebrows rose until they reached her hairline. "Sparing someone? That's not like you Medusa."
Medusa's lips thinned. "Let's just say it's nice to see someone who knows how to respect their betters."
Palutena's lips twitched, but she said, "And how are you back this time Medusa? Last I checked, Hades was in no shape to go about resurrecting people."
Medusa frowned. "It wasn't Hades, that much I'm sure of." She shook her head. "But the how doesn't matter!"
"And revenge does?" Palutena sounded slightly bored.
Medusa's smile was almost feral. "There's always a reason for revenge."
"Not a good one." Jack said quietly.
Medusa heard him however. "And what would you know about revenge, you skinny little twig?"
Jack felt himself smile slightly. "You think I haven't wanted revenge against anyone? Whoever it is camping out up there in the moon made me and dumped me on this planet with nothing more than a name. Of course I have resentment towards him. I even wanted revenge against him for a while, but I eventually realized it would have been pointless. What would that have got me?"
Medusa smirked. "Satisfaction."
Jack shrugged. "Somehow I don't think it would have lasted long."
The goddess eyed him. "Then that's your problem I suppose." Her attention returned to Palutena. "I rather thought you would know what was going on."
Palutena's lips pursed. "Believe me, if I had known, I would have done something about it." She eyed Medusa. "You really don't know who brought you back?"
The goddess shook her head, snakes swaying. "I only know it wasn't Hades. I checked the underworld. He's as gaseous as when you and Pit blasted him. The first thing I remember was a voice saying something about ice and the winds of change blowing in a new direction." She rolled her eyes. "Not exactly a lot to go on."
"I suppose not."
Jack leaned over the edge of the pool again. "Why did you contact us? It's obviously not to gloat."
Medusa's eyes narrowed. "What makes you think I did it for anything other than my own amusement?"
"You're not exactly laughing."
Medusa was silent for a moment. "I wanted a truce, however temporary." Jack watched Lady Palutena's mouth drop open. "I have no idea who revived me, but I refuse to play the decoy puppet in their schemes. Having Palutena track them down is worth the embarrassment of siding with her."
Lady Palutena's lips quirked up into a smile. "And why should I side with you?"
"Because the last time I was revived, the culprit created mass panic and worldwide chaos, and very nearly brought the heavens and earth crashing down."
Palutena grew serious at once. "Good point. It's a deal. It might be better if you come to Skyworld yourself. If someone's expecting you to attack us, then we'll be able to gain some time, and the element of surprise. Incidentally, who's been in charge of the underworld proper while Hades is out of commission?"
"Apparently the reapers. They've largely been the responsible parties for chivying souls back and forth, though they relinquished control to me upon my arrival. The alternative was Loki's daughter, and they evidently didn't feel Hel had had enough experience with the entirety of the underworld."
"A more likely reason is that she didn't want to. I suppose that rules out an underworld culprit. The reapers don't have the skill to revive a goddess, Thanatos isn't the type to try, and Hel's too easy going to make waves like that. Especially considering that I asked her to guard Hades remains."
"Which leaves an Overworld force."
"There's not many spirits or deities that would even attempt it, but it could just as easily been a human mage. There's still a few around, for all that everyone thinks they've died out."
"If it was a human, I'll rend their very soul to pieces." Her image vanished from the pool of liquid.
Lady Palutena sighed. Then she turned to Jack. "I had hoped you would never have to have an encounter with her. I thought her gone for good last time, but apparently someone likes to meddle."
"Who is she?"
"She is Medusa, Queen of the Underworld, and the Goddess of Darkness. And my sister."
"You two don't look anything alike."
Palutena smiled wanly, her eyes looking distant. "Long ago we did. We used to rule together, I the day and she the night. When we first came about, deities and spirits alike were either imprisoned or otherwise rendered powerless, and the world had been cloaked in hatred, fear, evil, and despair. "
"Together with Pit, we fought back against those forces. Working as one, the three of us, along with our forces, banished Weeping Night, the Spirit of Despair into a realm beyond that of ours and sealed him there. Pit himself slayed Risodante, the Spirit of Hatred in battle. The wounds he sustained from that battle are the reason he cannot fly without assistance. "
"We defeated Umber, the Spirit of Evil, and Medusa herself executed her, using her as an example of what would happen to those who would attempt to wreak havoc. Many thought it was a fitting end."
"What about Fear?"
Palutena shook her head. "With despair, hatred, and evil defeated, Gaia and Viridi were free. They took the fight straight to the master of fear, Pitch Black, the Nightmare King. After a vicious battle, they defeated him and forced him into hiding. These days, he's known as the Boogeyman."
"They didn't get rid of him?"
She frowned. "Fear is a universal constant. It's what makes children look both ways, what keeps them from touching a hot stove. It's what makes animals be wary of strangers. Fear is a necessity of life, and as such it cannot be destroyed." Palutena's lips pursed. "However, that doesn't mean the current wielder of it cannot be removed. In the case of Pitch Black, there were other forces at work."
"Other forces?"
Palutena grimaced. "It's a very long story, and I'll tell it to you soon, but the short answer is that Pitch Black is not entirely in control of himself. There's also the matter of the Guardians. These days, he's primarily their enemy."
"The Guardians?"
"A special group made up of four spirits. That's another story I'll tell you. At any rate, Medusa and I worked in harmony for many years. Unfortunately, Medusa began to turn against the humans, punishing them ever more viciously. Drying up their crops, visiting plagues upon them, turning them to stone, etcetera." She paused for a moment.
"In my anger I confronted her. After a fierce battle, I defeated her, and I transformed her into the image that I saw in heart, and banished her from skyworld. The face you saw today is a facade, an image she puts up."
"You transformed her?"
Lady Palutena sighed. "I was enraged, and wasn't thinking clearly. Looking back, I can't help but suspect that Hades may have been involved even then. Medusa certainly seemed to change overnight."
The former master of the underworld. He was the last one who revived Medusa. And he did it solely as a distraction to keep me busy so I wouldn't notice what he was up to. If someone is using that tactic again, then who knows what their end goal is."
She smiled grimly. "If that is the case however, I seriously doubt they ever expected Medusa to call a truce, which means we have an advantage, however slight."
The next day, Medusa arrived with fairly little fanfare on her part, but a great deal of panic from the centurions. Jack was irresistibly reminded of a flock of startled birds as every one of them launched themselves into the air.
Ignoring the numerous weapons pointed at her, Medusa turned her attention to Palutena and Pit, who were swiftly approaching. "I see you didn't inform them." She waved a hand to indicate the centurions.
"Stand down!" Palutena barked. When the centurions hesitated, she thumped her staff on the ground. "I said stand down! She's not our enemy!"
"For once." Pit muttered quietly.
Palutena shot him a glance, but otherwise ignored it. To Medusa she said, "Actually I did tell them. But evidently they thought I was joking." She sent the still armed centurions a rather stern look.
When they finally lowered their weapons, Medusa turned her attention to Jack. "You look…new."
Unsure how to respond to this, Jack remained silent.
Medusa swept closer, leaning down to stare him in the eyes. "You are a young one."
"Seventy, or thereabouts I think." Palutena supplied.
Medusa's eyes narrowed. "Winter?"
"According to the man in the moon, yeah." Jack said. "Never bothered to say anything else though."
"Somehow, I'm not surprised." Medusa said archly. "The Man in the Moon has always been a little less than excellent." With that, she swept off, following Palutena into her temple.
Pit wandered up next to him. "Sounds kinda like she actually approves of you."
"Yeah, I sort of caught that myself. What did she mean about the moon being "less than excellent"?"
Pit shrugged. "If she ever knew the man in the moon, then it's news to me. Lady Palutena and I almost never even speak with him, though I think that has more to do with him than anything else." He frowned. "Either way, I don't like having Medusa here, even if she does seem more…laid back." He shrugged again. "I guess being destroyed three times gives you some perspective for when it's your fourth time around."
"Yeah. The last two were because of Hades."
"Lady Palutena mentioned him earlier. Who was he?"
"The god of the underworld. He revived her once as distraction, and I don't know why he did it a second time, but it backfired then. Hades was about to destroy me when Medusa showed up out of nowhere and punched his head off. Said she wouldn't play the puppet any longer."
"She punched his head off?"
Pit nodded as they headed back towards the temple. "Yeah. Lady Palutena said she got an A for vindictive tenacity. Even then it wasn't enough. Hades grew a new head and destroyed her. Said she'd worn out her usefulness." He shook his head. "Usefulness to him maybe. Her attack bought Lady Palutena enough time to come up with a plan, and gave Viridi the chance to get me into the air. I'm starting to think that was Medusa's plan. She had to know she wouldn't be able to hold Hades off for very long."
"Hades sounds like he must have been powerful."
"Very. He caused decimation on a global scale, and disrupted the balance of life so badly that it took his own destruction to set things right. And he did it purely because he was greedy. If it hadn't been for Medusa, I'm not sure we would have won."
Mulling this over, Jack followed Pit into the temple.
Dinner with Medusa as a guest was just as interesting as breakfast with Viridi had been. Shortly after she had been served a rather raw looking steak by a very nervous centurion, she started giving Jack some strangely searching looks that made Jack feel as if he was being looked through rather than at.
After a few minutes of this she spoke. "Man in the Moon isn't the only responsible party is he?"
Since he had no idea what she was asking, Jack was glad that it was Palutena that answered. "Viridi and I are fairly certain that Gaea is the main force behind it. Viridi is out searching for her as we speak. She said she'll contact us as soon as she gets things figured out."
Medusa frowned. "That might take a while. Gaea is a…elusive being."
Palutena nodded. "Viridi seemed confident she could find her very quickly."
Jack blinked, remembering something. "When you first contacted us, you said a voice told you about the winds of change. Was it the Man in the Moon speaking to you?"
To his surprise, Medusa actually burst out into a full-fledged laugh. It was rich and melodious, and completely at odds with her former behavior. As she settled back, Jack saw a real unguarded smile. It seemed to transform her entire face, and for a moment, Jack was forcibly reminded of Lady Palutena.
When she managed to control herself, Medusa shook her head, still smiling. "It wasn't him that much I'm certain of. We never exactly got on."
Lady Palutena leaned forward, looking interested. "I didn't realize you had any contact with him."
Medusa pulled a face, the snakes on her head hissing. "Contact is a bit of a strong description. Tsar Lunar's idea of recent is something like centuries. Back in the early days, we both viewed ourselves as guardians of the night. That being the case, we had our differences. Eventually, Lunar started focusing more and more exclusively on children, though he still kept an eye on the world, for all the good that did. He certainly never interfered in any of our tiffs."
Jack took a careful sip of his soup and found it to be quite pleasant. "But you came before him didn't you? That was the impression I got." When Medusa looked puzzled he said, "Lady Palutena told me that you three fought to free the world when you first came around."
Her expression cleared at this. "Ah. Yes, we did. Lunar was already here however. He and Pitch Black arrived at roughly the same time. That being said, Lunar either didn't know what to do, or wasn't old enough to do it. He essentially grew up in his observatory up there. Which is why it ended up being Viridi and Gaea who actually forced Pitch Black from power that first time. No one else really had the strength to do it. Fear is a powerful foe."
That night, Jack had a particularly nasty dream. Fire and screaming raced through his mind like lightning. He jerked awake to find that he himself had been screaming.
Lady Palutena had evidently heard him as well. She swept in, looking more than a little concerned. "Are you alright Jack?" Medusa was behind her, looking around the room with a strangely suspicious expression.
"I- I think so. It was all fire and screams."
"A lost memory perhaps."
Jack shook his head. "I don't remember anything like that. I usually stay away from fire after the whole bonfire incident."
Palutena's lips twisted. "I suspect there's a story involved in that. The word "Incident" usually gives it away."
"There was something else too, something dark and nasty."
Medusa suddenly made a snatching motion over in one corner. "Nasty is right."
Palutena turned from her spot at the foot of Jack's bed. "A fearling."
Jack felt his dinner trying to come up as he saw the squirming, ink like shadow that was caught in Medusa's clawed hand. "What is that?"
Medusa squeezed her hand and thing gave out a high pitched shriek and exploded into nothingness. "A fearling, though a weak one. They spread nightmares and fear." Her eyes narrowed. "They are agents of Pitch Black."
Palutena raised a finger. "That's not entirely accurate you know."
Medusa shrugged. "It seems easier to understand than them being agents of each other." She turned to Jack, who was watching her, wide-eyed. "That being said I am the true ruler of darkness, and all it entails. Weak little creatures of the dark such as them have no power against me. Dreams, sweet or vicious are of little effort for me." She traced a symbol of some kind in the air over the bed. "Sleep well, and rest easy in dreams of peace."
She swept out. Palutena was silent for a moment before saying. "I do believe you've won her over, Jack." She smiled at him. "It's heartening to see signs of Medusa as she was so long ago. I think you can probably bring out the good in her that's been hidden away for so long."
She too left and Jack quickly fell into a sleep that was filled with warm and comforting darkness, and light, shining gently down from above.
I think we can all guess who's going to appear next btw
"Happy Birthday darling!" Bayonetta set the large cake that Enzo's wife had made down on the table, the giant candle in the shape of the number five blazing merrily. "Blow out the candle and make a wish!"
Jeanne, Luka, Enzo, and Bayonetta all clapped as the flame blew out. Harry laughed as a camera flash went off. "Aunt Jeanne!"
Jeanne giggled and waved the camera about. "Sorry sweetie! Have to have a picture of the birthday boy on his birthday, its tradition!"
Bayonetta glanced at the other three photos on the wall. The one for his second birthday depicted a rather large mess with a hugely grinning baby in a high-chair. Harry had still been at the stage where food was both a toy and nourishment. The resultant explosion of cake and other foods had taken several hours to clean up, though only because Jeanne had started a full-fledged food fight. Luka had proved to be a fairly good shot. The other two pictures were much less messy, and more traditional.
Luka cut the cake and started serving pieces. "And one nice big one for the birthday boy."
"Thanks, Mister Chess."
Bayonetta tried and failed to suppress a smirk. Much to Luka's chagrin, Harry had picked up on her often used nickname for the journalist. Unfortunately, he had done so shortly after learning how to speak, and thus was unable to say the full "Cheshire". He had therefore settled for "Mister Chess", after some coaxing from Jeanne, who found the entire thing hilarious.
Luka liked to refer Jeanne as the "Master Instigator."
"Fantastic cake of Clarissa's Enzo. Pity she couldn't be here."
The round man huffed. "Yeah. She wanted to, but Ed and Edna had the flu. Those two share everything."
When Harry finished his cake, Bayonetta produced a small box from one of the cabinets. "I have a very special present for you this year Harry!"
The five year old looked up from his plate. "What is it mommy?"
Bayonetta smiled and held out the box. "It's something very important, and the first step towards being an Umbra."
Harry carefully opened the box and pulled out what appeared to be a large shiny disc of white metal with a small emerald set in it. "What's this?"
"An Umbran watch darling." Bayonetta pressed a button, popping the lid open, revealing the face, and the crescent moon shaped emeralds set in a ring around it.
She produced a chain and threaded it through a slot in the back. "Your Aunt Jeanne and I crafted it. Never take it off and always take good care of it."
Harry nodded and grinned as she slipped it around his neck. "Yes Mommy." She ruffled his hair as Jeanne and Luka started bringing in the rest of the presents.
"Good boy. Now open the rest." She smirked as he started tearing into presents.
Luka waved her over as Harry was exclaiming over the new storybooks Enzo had gotten him.
"I must admit, I didn't think you'd make it here today Cheshire."
He waved it off. "Like I was going to miss the kid's party. I caught a red-eye flight." He set the remainder of his cake on the ground, watching as the Chain Chomp ate it, paper plate and all. "That thing will never fail to disturb me somehow." He shook his head. "Anyways, I may have found out who that Voldemort character is."
This caught her attention. "And?"
"Apparently he's the wand users' version of the boogeyman. You so much as say the name and they freak, spill food all over themselves, you get the idea. Turns out he terrorized most of Britain, and England in general a few years back. He was eventually stopped when a spell he cast n Harry backfired on him, killing him."
He leaned forward. "That's not the most interesting part though. Some rumors say he made a deal with a demon."
Jeanne appeared at his shoulder. "Which one?"
Luka shook his head. "Like I said, it's just a rumor. If it is true, no one knows which one it was. All I know for sure is that he was after Harry there. No one knows why though."
They watched as Harry neatly wrangled Enzo into reading from the books. They were quiet for a moment, watching the portly man begin reading The Wizard of Oz.
After a moment, Bayonetta smiled. "Wrapped around his finger already. Such a quick study."
Jeanne snorted. "As if that's difficult. Enzo loves kids."
"True enough. Still, it's a good start. He's getting there with Rodin too."
"Where is he anyway?" Jeanne asked as she passed around wine.
Luka took the glass she handed him. "Poking around Greece for his latest weapon project. He left his present to Harry with me. It's that box that looks like a chess board. He made him some angel action figures, or something like that. Said it's never too early to learn his targets."
Bayonetta grinned as she passed Enzo a can of beer. "Now that's certainly true. How did you find out about Voldemort?"
Luka pulled out a pair of glasses with three stars on the bridge. "Rodin's glasses do more than just let me see into Purgatorio apparently." He swung them idly. "Turns out there's this cute little pub in London that people without magic can't see. It's called the Leaky Cauldron."
Both Bayonetta and Jeanne snorted.
Luka ignored this. "Definitely a magic place. Nothing like the stuff you two do though."
Jeanne made a face at him. "There's a reason we call ourselves the last of the Umbra you know."
Luka grinned. "Yeah, I know, no giant, vicious, Infernals."
Bayonetta sniffed. "I'll have you know Madama Butterfly likes him."
Luka rolled his eyes. "I suspect Madama Butterfly likes him because you do, not because of his own merits."
"She gave him a lollipop."
Luka blinked. "Well, ok. That puts a different spin on things."
Jeanne snorted. "Madama Styx likes him too, though she's less attached than I am."
"I'm surprised he didn't freak out when they were summoned."
Bayonetta waved a hand. "Frankly, I'm not. He adored my panther and crow forms the first time he saw them."
Luka shook his head. "Stop sidetracking me you two!" He pulled out a sheaf of paper and waved it around. "What the Leaky Cauldron did have, was this." He handed the sheaf of paper to Bayonetta.
She flipped it over and discovered it was a newspaper. To her surprise, the front page had pictures that were actually in motion. "Verdict reached on Longbottom Torture case." She stared at the snarling faces on the front page for a moment.
Jeanne grinned. "The Daily Prophet? Sounds a little high handed."
Luka shrugged and held up an oversized golden coin. "Apparently they pay for it and everything else with these. They call it a Galleon." He turned it over. "I think it's made from real gold. There's apparently other coins too."
Bayonetta shook her head. "I think I prefer halos and cash."
"You would."
They watched the book reading for another moment. Finally, Bayonetta smirked. "Tomorrow is when things start to get tough. We'll have to start his training."
"How much training can you do before he makes a contract?"
"Some. Umbran flexibility training for one. I can also teach him the basics of the Witch Walk." She paused and added, "And how to shoot. That's a must. I know Rodin has some training guns stashed away somewhere, I'll have to ask him when he gets back.
"Don't you need a contract to Witch Walk?"
"Yes, but it doesn't mean I can't take him on one."
Luka grinned. "I bet that'll go over well. I think you two are a bad influence."
Jeanne grinned and raised her glass in a toast "Hear, hear!"
Luka rolled his eyes. "Right. Anyway, I heard about Dumbledore there too. Seems his name comes up regularly in the paper, among other things. From what I hear, he was responsible for Harry showing up on that doorstep. Any question he's asked about Harry usually ends with something to the effect of, "Mister Potter is safe and with family". Accurate, if partially uninformed." He glanced at Bayonetta. "Does he actually know Harry is here?"
She pursed her lips. "If he does, he's certainly never attempted to contact me. Apparently, it's never been the "appropriate time". Just as well for him I suppose."
"What, you want to pummel him with Madama Butterfly?"
"Well, yes. But that's really something that Harry should do with his own contract partner."
"How does the whole contract thing work anyway?"
"Not all Infernals want to make you suffer for eternity you know. Harry'll be old enough to summon for himself in a few years. You're around us enough that you qualify as a viable witness, so you can watch for yourself."
"Looking forward to it."
The three of them clinked their wine glasses together and grinned.
As for Madma Butterfly, she seems quite attached to Bayonetta, as she helps out wholeheartedly with the destruction of Alruane's lair, given that the two have never met, and even fist bumps Bayonetta when going up against another infernal. Bottom line, she evidently has a soft spot for Bayonetta and her kin, perhaps from long association with her.
Clarissa is my name for Enzo's wife, as she's not named in the games.
Next chapter is Harry's contract, so look forward to it!
"Hey." Luka's friendly greeting meant one of two things. Either he had had all the facts calmly explained to him, or he was too frightened of Rodin to protest. Given Rodin's usual less than talkative demeanor, Bayonetta was betting on the latter. "This the kid you stole?"
Inwardly Bayonetta sighed. Definitely the latter then. Aloud, she said. "I didn't steal anything. This time anyway. He was freely given."
"Uh huh. How much of that was from you being intimidating?"
She shrugged. "Not much. His aunt seemed quite glad to be rid of him."
"Rodin said he's got someone else's soul in him."
She nodded and put Harry down on her lap, handing him one of the new toys she had bought, a large stuffed cat. Harry cooed happily and enthusiastically began to chew on one large ear. Smiling, she said, "That's why we're here today. Rodin seemed confident he could remove it."
"I know I can baby." Rodin appeared out of thin air behind the bar, and proceeded to toss back a goblet full of something rose colored that was smoking slightly. Slamming the empty container back on the counter, he wiped his mouth. "Seems your friends downstairs were pretty pleased with all the angels you sent their way. Made them a little more talkative."
"Apparently the folks in Paradiso were up in arms because there was an upheaval in power, and they weren't the ones to do it. Inferno is angry because they weren't able to get their piece of the action. Basically no one won."
"So that mess the other day was a pissing contest between the trinity?"
Rodin nodded and picked up Harry, cat and all, placing him on the counter. "Pretty much. Earth just got caught in the middle as usual, since its native powerhouses prefer to remain neutral." He stared down at Harry. "Now let's see about getting this other soul out of you."
Harry looked up at him and seemed to twitch for a second, then he started chewing on his cat again, though he kept shooting glances at Rodin. As this was a typical reaction to concentrated attention from Rodin from people of all ages, Bayonetta wasn't terribly concerned. She still put a hand on his back, however, rubbing it in circles.
Rodin ruffled his hair. "Promise it won't hurt." Under his breath he added, "If I can help it." This seemed to calm Harry, and he watched with interest as Rodin started setting up tools, though Bayonetta was willing to bet that it was simply because they were shiny.
"Speaking of the other day." Luka tossed Bayonetta a newspaper. "I had a stopover in London this morning on my way back from Sri-Lanka. That you're handiwork?"
She frowned and read aloud, "Manhunt continues for killer of wealthy industrialist."
Flipping the paper open, she continued. "The hunt is on for the killer of industrialist Johnathon Edgecombe, who was found dead in Surrey the morning after Halloween. His wife called law enforcement after her husband failed to return from a costume party the night before. Police say he was still in costume, consisting of black robes and a white mask, at the time of murder. According to forensics, the assailant shot Mister Edgecombe in the face at what appears to be point blank range. Anyone with information should inform their local law enforcement, a reward is being offered for valid information. Longtime family friend Lucius Malfoy was unavailable for comment."
She tossed the newspaper back. "Judging by the description, I'd say that's the man I killed, yes."
Luka frowned. "Since when do you go after humans? They're aren't exactly your usual angelic fare."
Bayonetta watched as Rodin's equipment began to glow, creating a mystical sigil with Harry in the center. "He was tracking the little one while we were in Purgatorio. Apparently he served a master who wanted him dead."
Luka blinked. "Wants him dead?! How old is the kid?"
"A little over a year, according to the letter that he was left on a doorstep with."
Luka's expression turned thunderous, but before he could say anything, Rodin made a pleased noise. "Got ya now." He was making peculiar motions with a metal stick that was engraved in something written in Enochian. Something black as night was being pulled from Harry's scar, appearing to fight every single step of it."
Luka looked sick. "What the hell is that?!"
Sucking the cloud of darkness into a vessel, Rodin sat back, looking somewhat winded. "That was the other soul. Nasty piece of work. Powerful too."
"Planning on making a weapon with it?"
Rodin grinned. "We'll see. If I can beef it up, then definitely. It's fragmented somehow, like it's only a piece. If nothing else, I can make it into his first guns for you."
Luka waved his hands. "Whoa, whoa, whoa. You-" he pointed at Bayonetta, "-are raising him?!"
She eyed him. "I fail to see how it's any of your concern. He'll be wanted, well fed, and the Chain Chomp likes him, so he'll have a good pet."
Luka drew his feet up reflexively as said creature bounced near, barking lowly. "From what you've told me, the Chain Chomp likes anything that can't get away. I was thinking more about him being condemned to Inferno, actually."
Bayonetta sniffed. "That soul Rodin just extracted had already marked him for Inferno. I like to think I can give him a much better turn up here." She scowled, making Luka inch back on his stool and nearly fall off. "Besides, it's a damn sight better than anything those fools who left him with had planned. They dropped him on a doorstep with a note and left! It was hours before the household woke up, but they didn't even hang around to make sure he survived the night!"
Luka held his hands up in a placating gesture. "Okay! I'm curious though, can men learn the Umbran Arts?"
"It's not common, but it has happened." Luka cursed and spun as Jeanne seemed to appear behind him. "This would make Harry the…fourth. I think." She accepted a goblet of wine from Rodin. "Usually it only happens when an Umbra Witch has a male child, which was fairly uncommon. We're predisposed towards having girls."
Luka appeared to file this away. "So it's possible." He glanced at Bayonetta. "You said something about a letter."
Bayonetta nodded and handed it over. "I thought you'd ask to see it Chesire. Everyone else has."
"Not a cat." Luka mumbled. Then he flipped the note open and read aloud. "Dear Mrs. Dursley, This is your nephew, Harry James Potter, born the thirty first of last July. I regret to inform you of the passing of your sister, Lily, and her husband, James. They were killed at the hands of Lord Voldemort, a dark wizard that has, until tonight, plagued our world. I humbly ask that you please take in and care for your nephew, as you are the only family he has left now. We have placed an enchantment around your house that will protect both you and him, from the followers of Voldemort so long as he stays. This enchantment shall remain until he reaches the age of majority. I cannot stress enough the dangers of the world to child who cannot yet defend himself, and hope that you have the heart to take him in. We shall contact you again at the appropriate time. Yours sincerely, Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore."
He was silent for a moment. Eventually he said, "I suppose he didn't really give her an option, did he?" He looked at the letter for a moment. "This kind of reads like a form letter, except for wizards apparently."
Jeanne snapped her fingers "That's what this was reminding me of. There's a bunch of magic workers that use wands. Survived the witch hunts by laying low."
Bayonetta sniffed. "Wands? How very archaic." At Luka's confused glance, she elaborated. "We Umbra stopped using wands centuries before the witch hunts. They were too much of a liability."
Jeanne frowned. "This Lord Voldemort seems recent. I'll have to do some digging. I know the wand users had a foothold in Eastern Europe, might as well start there."
"We'll need to make a trip to Vigrid anyway." When everyone but Harry stared at her, Bayonetta smirked. "He needs an Umbran Watch, and some of those parts can only be found in Vigrid."
"Leave that to me." Jeanne said. "It'll be better if he has a new one, and I know what it needs."
Luka hopped off the barstool, dodging an attempted nibble from the Chain Chomp. "If you can give me some tips, I'll start looking into these wand users. Odds are good they aren't as well hidden as they like to think."
Rodin sighed as the two of them headed out of the bar, chattering. He sighed again and rescued one of his tools from Harry's grasp, replacing it with the cat. Harry seemed perfectly content with this, and happily began chewing on it again. "You're gonna have one hell of a childhood kid."
Harry just burbled and chewed harder on the cat's ear.
It was a few minutes into her walk to the rendezvous that Bayonetta realized someone was following them. "Now who's sneaking around?"
The culprit was fairly easy to spot. A tall, robed person was striding about with a stick, which was pointed unerringly at them. He kept waving it every few seconds.
"Well now, we can't have that!" She traced a circle on the ground with one foot and placed Harry inside as a barrier sprang up. "Stay here little one. I'll be back soon." She stepped back and tapped her feet to the ground, cocking Toccata and Nocturne. Then she opened a gate out of Purgatorio and launched herself forward.
Outside of Purgatorio, the man resolved into a tall figure in jet black robes with a stark white mask. He raised his stick and started to shout something, pointing it like a weapon. She could see a glow beginning to form on the tip, and she transitioned into a roll, activating witch time and causing the jet of red light to go wide, as time seemed to slow to a crawl. She came up and launched a kick that sent the stick spinning out of his hand into the night. Then she brought her foot down in a stomp, summoning Madama Butterfly's foot through a portal and bringing the man crashing to the pavement.
He groaned and rolled over as she placed a foot to his head, Nocturne's barrel aimed at his face. "Who the bloody hell are you?"
Bayonetta just pressed her foot down harder. "I think I should be asking you that. Not many people can track me when I'm in Purgatorio."
The man shoved uselessly at her foot. "I wasn't after you! I don't even know who you are! I was after the Potter's spawn! The Dark Lord wants him dead!"
Potter…Her mind flashed back to the letter. That was Harry's last name if she remembered it correctly. Well, no sense taking chances, she thought. "In that case I'm afraid that makes me your enemy. Say goodnight and do give Inferno my regards." The man let out a shout as she shoved her foot, discharging the gun and shattering the mask along with his face. She waited until he stopped moving before producing a handkerchief and cleaning off the blood.
Throwing the ruined scrap away she sighed. "This is why I prefer killing angels. Everything dissolves when they die." She traced a sigil and stepped back into Purgatorio. Picking Harry back up, she frowned. "From the sounds of things, the sooner we get you out of here little one, the better."
Harry just burbled something at her and blinked.
Bayonetta smiled and adjusted her grip before hurrying back towards the rendezvous.
To her surprise, Enzo wasn't alone at the plane. Rodin himself was there, looking somewhat harassed.
"Tell me you got something figured out baby." Then he spotted her cargo. "What the hell is that?"
Bayonetta smirked. "Funny you should say baby. I've…acquired a little one of my own."
The cigar dropped from Enzo's mouth. "You?! A mother?!" The portly man shuddered and picked it back up. "Fuck. That gives me the heebie-jeebies just thinking about it!"
Bayonetta ignored him. "One of the angels said that the balance of power has shifted, and that the chosen is corrupted."
Rodin's face twitched, ever so slightly. "Beautiful."
"I don't think this is like when Da-Balder died. There were a lot of angels flying about, but none of them were very high ranking." She paused. "And I ended up killing a human. He was tracking the little one somehow while we were in Purgatorio."
At this, Rodin looked more closely. "There's something different about him. Someone's rammed their soul into him. Someone strong. Whatever's in there ain't a run of the mill demon soul."
Enzo grinned as Harry blinked up at him. Cigar twisting sideways he tickled the baby, grin widening as he laughed. "Eh whatever, cute little fucker, ain't he?"
Bayonetta gave him a look. "Of course he is."
Noting the possessiveness, Enzo backed away.
Rodin frowned as he caught sight of the baby's scar. "Bayonetta…That ain't a normal mark. It's got something nasty in it, something to do with the other soul. And it's gonna send him straight to Inferno."
Even Enzo froze. "You're fucking kidding right?!" He waved a hand around. "He's barely a year old, if that!"
Rodin shook his head. "Speaking as a former resident of Paradiso, I can tell you it won't matter to them. He'll never get taken up there. The Infernals might not take him right away, but it'd be a damn sight better there than being forced to wander around Purgatorio for all eternity."
Enzo eyed Bayonetta. "And I thought you had bad luck! This poor kid's been fucked over before he can even make a choice!"
Bayonetta eyed him before taking Harry back from Rodin and cradling him in one arm. "Well then, we'll just have to see to it that he gets a proper turn up here. Purgatorio is not the sort of place one should wander about in for very long. You stay there for too long, and you'll really lose your way." She looked at Rodin. "There's nothing you can do?"
Rodin shook his head and blew out a cloud of smoke. "I will get the other soul out, I want to tinker with it. But that won't change the fact that he's been marked."
Bayonetta hissed out a curse. "Wonderful." She turned and jumped into the plane. "Come Enzo. We should get home and do some baby shopping."
Enzo grumbled something but got into the pilot seat. "You and your fucking ideas."
He yelped when she pinched his ear. "Come now Enzo, enough of the language. There are delicate ears aboard."
"Bayonetta." She glanced up as Rodin threw his cigar away. "You get to explain this to Jeanne."
She smirked. Ignoring Enzo's muttered expletives, she said, "Leave it to me."
As turned out, Jeanne was relatively easy to convince. Once she was sure the child hadn't been outright stolen, at any rate. "Cereza!" She sounded scandalized. "You kidnapped a child?!"
Bayonetta clutched at Harry. "Of course not!" She pouted. "I wanted him, and his aunt didn't. She was more than happy to give him up."
Jeanne tossed her head, looking exasperated. "You make it sound more like you found a puppy somewhere, rather than a child." She eyed the tower of boxes that was being carried by a puffing Enzo. Deftly catching one that slid off the top, she tossed it in one hand. "Rodin made it sound worse than it was, I suppose. And how did you even find him?"
Bayonetta tossed her head, readjusting her rose laden hat. "I spent the night killing angels, and watched him get left on a doorstep."
Jeanne paused. "A doorstep."
"With a note."
"A note?" She took the proffered item and read it, her expression slowly growing blanker. Finally she handed it back. "Given the options, I can see why you did it. What's that made out of anyway?"
"Parchment. Odd thing for someone to be writing on."
Jeanne made a face. "That seems familiar, but for the life of me I can't remember why." She flung the box back on top of the pile. "We'll meet back at the house then. I'll help you with the paperwork."
"So you agree."
"From what Rodin told me, he's better off with us. Has he taken the other soul out yet?"
"It's on the agenda." She shifted Harry to her other arm, grinning as he watched Jeanne's hair sway. "Rodin says that the sooner it's done, the better, before it has a chance to properly settle in."
Jeanne shrugged. "He's the weapon smith. I suppose he should know."
Bayonetta's lips twisted. "The actual process is a lot less romantic than it looks, believe me." She frowned. "Right now I'm more concerned about Luka. He's dropping by the Gates of Hell tomorrow. I'm not even sure how to begin to explain things to him."
"Leave it to Rodin."
Bayonetta turned and eyed the walking mountain of boxes. "Why Enzo, that's the most sensible thing you've said all day."
"Yeah, yeah." He grumbled. "We done here? If I miss dinner, the wife's gonna let me have it!"
"One last stop." She promised. To Jeanne she said, "I'll see you tonight then. I don't suppose you can talk Rodin into dealing with Luka?" She gave Jeanne a pleading look.
Jeanne rolled her eyes. "I can try. Fine. I was going there for a drink anyway. The things I do for you Cereza."
She sauntered off, leaving Bayonetta to guide Enzo into another shop.
Stumbling over the threshold and dropping a few boxes, he shouted, "You two witches are real pieces of work, you know that!"
The night was cold, wet, and absolutely filled with Applauds and Affinities. Bayonetta grinned. "My, my! This is my kind of party! You boys are certainly out in force! What's got you lot all hot under the collar?"
The lower ranking Paridisians didn't usually speak to her, but to her surprise, one of the ones near her did. In its strange garbled language it said, "The balance of power has shifted, and the chosen is corrupted."
She rolled her eyes. "Oh, not that shit again." She readied her guns.
The Applaud let out a garbled shout and swung its staff at her.
Bayonetta's smile turned feral. "Let's dance boys!"
Idly twirling one of her newly acquired halos, Bayonetta wandered down the street. She had come to England as a favor to Rodin, who said that the boys downstairs were getting very antsy over the place.
Judging by the sheer number of Paradiso angels she'd encountered so far, the concerns were justified. Not to mention the odd sights she'd seen. There had been a deluge of shooting stars in a town called Kent, and the number of owls flying about in daylight was baffling. "It's almost like nature itself is having a temper tantrum." She mused.
She paused. "More of those people in cloaks! They've been everywhere today!" Drawing a sigil and stepping through into Purgatorio, she stalked towards them. "Let's see if we can find what this shit is about."
As she approached, she heard the female of the group speak. "They're the worst sort of muggles imaginable! They really are-"
"The only family he has left now." A man with a beard that could rival her hair said.
"He'll be famous Albus! Everyone in our world will know his name!"
The man with the beard nodded."Exactly Minerva! Famous before he can walk and talk. He'll be much better off growing up away from all that." He produced a sheet of paper that Bayonetta recognized to be parchment. "I've written a letter explaining things." He took the infant from the third person, who was possibly the largest human she had ever seen.
The man leaned over and gave the infant what must have been a very scratchy kiss on the forehead. Then he let out a great hiccupping sob.
"Now really Hagrid!" The woman said, sounding scandalized.
"Sorry professor." He sniffed.
Placing the infant on the doorstep, the other man patted him gently. "Now, now, you'll meet again."
The group hung abut for a few more minutes before the old one gently shooed them. He watched the woman turn on the spot and vanish, and the large man get on a motorcycle. Bayonetta was startled to see it take off into the sky.
The old man stayed for a while longer, before he too turned on the spot and vanished.
Several hours later the front door was opened by a boney looking woman, who promptly screamed and dropped the bottles of milk she was holding. The noise woke the infant, which started to fuss.
Bayonetta used the moment of confusion to slip through the open door. The interior was so pristine that it hurt to look at.
The slamming of the door made her turn around. The woman was clutching the infant and the now open letter. Bayoneta followed her into the kitchen.
Sitting in a chair, the woman shook her head. "We've already got one infant! The last thing I need is one belonging to that blasted sister of mine!" She shook her head again. "What on earth am I going to tell Vernon?!"
Making up her mind, Bayonetta strode out of Purgatorio. "That a woman came to pick up her child."
The woman let out strangled squeak. Outside of Purgatorio, her face was revealed be a combination of pinched and horselike.
Ignoring the outburst, she continued. "I've already watched him all night, and I think he should go where he's wanted." Holding out her arms she said, "Unless you really do want to raise him."
Composing herself, the woman sniffed. "You hardly look like mother material."
Bayonetta rolled her eyes, but kept her arms extended.
The woman sighed. Then she handed the infant over. "You're right. I don't." She thrust the letter at her. "Probably better with you anyway. You and all the rest of those freaks."
A loud rumble came from upstairs. "Pet? Is someone here?"
The woman flinched. "No Vernon! I just forgot to turn the telly off last night!" To Bayonetta she said, "Get out of here!"
Bayonetta smirked and opened the back door before drawing another sigil. Stepping into Purgatorio she said, "No worries. With luck, you'll never see me again."
The woman merely sniffed, looking pleased.
In the strange realm between realities, Baynetta traced the infant's scar. "Well my dear-"she checked the letter- "Harry. Let's go home." Smiling down at the brilliant green eyes staring up at her, she turned and headed for the gate. "On the way, we can figure out how to tell Jeanne she's an aunt."
I am a major nut about Photography, and take many pictures. In my spare time (Whatever that is) I also write.
I am also an administrator on the site Potions and Snitches.net, a Harry/Snape Gen fiction archive, which focuses on the non slash relationships between the two.


text:
Evacuation-assistance program announced
June 9, 2011
The Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department is urging Longboat Key residents with special needs to apply now for an evacuation-assistance program.
Duncan proposes business plan
June 8, 2011
Retired pharmaceutical executive turned Longboat Key Commissioner Jack Duncan wants to create an island-wide business plan to shape the island's future.
Town could see 2.6% millage increase
June 8, 2011
The Longboat Key Town Commission received a preliminary 2010-11 budget Wednesday, June 1 that includes a $223,601 budget deficit.
Publix begins discussions with town
June 8, 2011
Publix Super Markets Inc. officials have begun discussions with town employees about potential plans for its Longboat Key location and the Avenue of the Flowers.
New state law affects island's density
June 8, 2011
Unless an amendment is made to a bill that was signed into state law last week, the town can no longer ask its voters to increase the island's density or make amendments to its Comprehensive Plan.
Beach bond validation hearing set
June 8, 2011
The Town Commission gave town staff direction to move forward with a $15,000 lawsuit to validate a $16 million beach bond referendum.
June 8, 2011
Colony owner purchases loans; St. Denis schedules contract meetings; Saivetz pleads for an answer from the town
Organization to help military family, friends
June 8, 2011
Professionals Assisting Military Families & Friends members will provide key services to those close to returning veterans.
Cops Corner
June 8, 2011
May 27 Sneak peek 11:52 p.m. — Broadway Beach Access. Code Enforcement. Police warned a couple they were on the beach after hours. They told police they had just arrived for a vacation and wanted to take a quick glance at the beach.
L'Ambiance unit sells for $2,375,000
June 8, 2011
The sale was the largest of 12 transactions recorded on Longboat, Lido, St. Armands and Bird keys during the week of May 23 through May 27 at the Sarasota and Manatee county courthouses.
- Nov
29 Santa Jaws at Mote Aquarium
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
- Dec
6 Longboat Key Gourmet Lawn Party
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
- Dec
6 Santa Jaws at Mote Aquarium
12:00 pm
- Dec
13 Santa Jaws at Mote Aquarium
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
PHOTO GALLERY: Interfaith Thanksgiving Worship Service
On Nov. 25, the 34th annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service was held at St. Armands Lutheran Church.
Cumming heads back to school
Where in the world is Longboat Key Police Chief Pete Cumming?
Toys for Tots seeks holiday cheer
Toys for Tots needs help to make Christmas wishes come true for local children in need.

subset: commoncrawl


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Folly Beach House Rental Photos and Description
5BR/4.5BA/Sleeps 12 (click 'RATES') Queen sleeper couch in 3rd fl. Game Room
Special: VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_gkLqQahYc
Address: Folly Beach. Possibly the tallest home on Folly, with 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, with the entire third floor is a game room, complete with full size pool table, QUEEN SLEEPER COUCH, ping pong and wet bar, leading to a large open porch with panoramic beach views. All bedrooms face the ocean with porch access on three levels. Private beach walkway with shower, beach sand maybe 50 steps from the porch. The Edwin S. Taylor fishing pier (named for the owner) and business district is just 7 blocks away. Elevator equipped. And, total of 9 TVs, internet, music and video library.
NOTE: NO SPRING BREAK STUDENTS! No events, house parties, weddings, receptions, pets, and GRILLIN
SEE RATES SECTION FOR DISCOUNTS: No Spring Break Students, Events, Receptions, House Parties, Weddings, ...... (3 day min. in off season)
NOTE: 'Grilling' with express written permission only, seriously!
- Suitability:
- children welcome
- non smoking only
- pets not allowed
- suitable for elderly or infirm
- wheelchair accessible
Guestbook comments from the owner
Dear Taylor Family:
Taken from the Guest Book as follows: Many thanks and much appreciation for sharing you beautiful home with our family. We so enjoyed our stay!!! The "Atlantic House Remembered" is more than we could have expected. The Eversoles and Bohons will have a wonderful summer memory for many years to come, sincerely yours, Marlyn Eversole and family.


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Singer James Taylor on gun control: 'We need to make some Sacrifices to our Freedoms' to Keep Kids SafeSubmitted by stu2002 on Tue, 01/22/2013 - 07:30
WASHINGTON — Addressing the issue of gun control, singer-songwriter James Taylor told The Daily Caller that Americans "need to make some sacrifice[s] to our freedoms" in order to keep children safe.
Following his performance at President Obama's second inauguration, TheDC asked Taylor if he agreed with Obama's executive actions on gun control.
"I think the nation is very divided on gun control," Taylor told TheDC, "but I think the majority of us feel strongly — even the majority of gun owners feel strongly — that we need to make some sacrifice[s] to our freedoms, if that's the way to put it. We need to make some sacrifices to what we might want to have, in order to safeguard our children."
Read more: http://dailycaller.com/2013/01/22/exclusive-video-james-tayl...
- Login to post comments
You ain't my friend, Jim
and you are an enemy to freedom
"Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not." (Dr. Seuss)
speak for yourself jimbo
you've earned your place in my "starving artists For tyranny" list. say hi to grohl and cornell for me, loser.
"The two weakest arguments for any issue on the House floor are moral and constitutional"
Ron Paul
Please explain
how making sacrifices to our freedoms keeps kiddies safe.
I did a quick look-up of U.S. school shootings. I assume that is what he wants to stop. There is a list on Wikipedia. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_school_shootings_in_the....
I counted up the number of fatalities since the 1966 Texas clock tower shooting up to the passage of the "Gun-free school zone" law in 1990. I then totaled the number of fatalities from 1991 to 2013.
So, what was the effect of sacrificing some of our freedoms to keep kiddies safe in their little gun-free zones? For the 24 years before the gun-free zone law was enacted there were a total of 46 fatalities. That includes the 16 in Texas. It's less than two per year on average. Since kids by law are now safe from guns in their idyllic bubbles, there have been 228 fatalities in school shootings. That is close to 10 per year. Gun-free schools are five times more deadly than legal carry schools. James Taylor must be high.
[F]orce can only settle questions of power, not of right. - Clyde N. Wilson
Taylor says:
"even the majority of gun owners feel strongly — that we need to make some sacrifice[s] to our freedoms, if that's the way to put it. We need to make some sacrifices to what we might want to have, in order to safeguard our children."
I've been a fan of J.T.'s music since the "Flying Machine" days, but this statement is a careless, unmitigated and outright lie!
I have to assume that he understands the issue at stake regarding our 2nd amendment rights and since he also supported the Kenyan in '08, that means, at least in my mind, that he's also a traitor to the republic.
Taylor is a tool; a pseudo, aristocratic fool who may never learn just what a useful idiot he was and is.
'I was a fool to care'....
"The problem is not those in power, the problem is right between your ears." ~Larken Rose
Hey JT!
Aint it good to know, you lost a friend?
When Fascism goes to sleep, it checks under the bed for Ron Paul!
There are legal and
There are legal and long-established ways of making our children safe. Get a warrant, report a suspicion, etc.
Plan for eliminating the national debt in 10-20 years:
Overview: http://rolexian.wordpress.com/2010/09/12/my-plan-for-reducin...
Specific cuts; defense spending: http://rolexian.wordpress.com/2011/01/03/more-detailed-look-a
Does that mean his
Does that mean his bodyguard(s) will be relinquishing his weapon?
and I like JT's music.
But, I am convinced that most of those in the music industry have compromised and sold out. These are not our heroes and like sports personalities we should discount most of what they say and how they live their lives. Bad examples.
The law cannot make a wicked person virtuous…God's grace alone can accomplish such a thing.
Ron Paul - The Revolution
Setting a good example is a far better way to spread ideals than through force of arms. Ron Paul
He's so vain, he probably thinks this post is about him.
You gave away the things you love, one was liberty.
Only 30% were suckered by the Presidents lying ways. Only 25% by Romney's equally dishonest ways.
But 45% wanted nobody for President.
Democracy has been a fraud is the Unites states for at least 125 years, being a tyranny of the minority.
During the last administration, reports of the free press documents 4.6 children/day were murdered by drone strikes.
When the government supplied assault weapons to criminal elements in Mexico, surely it wasn't to protect the children.
Government bought 4 billion rounds of ammo. How many of them have children's names on them.
When that same government executed at least 17 children and one pregnant mother at the Waco Massacre, burning them to death in the siege.
When government Agents set explosives charges in the Murrow Federal Building, 19 children under the age of 6 were killed.
To protect the children, either disarm the government or arm the population.
Free includes debt-free!
Put him on the list
of celebrities who are no longer eligible for bodyguard protection.
those who would sacrifice
those who would sacrifice permanent freedoms for temporary safety deserve neither
~Benjamin Franklin
it feels like I just had the rug pulled out from under me...not sure why his opinion (contrary to my own) has affected me more than other celebrities with the same views...but it has.
"You've Got a Friend", James? Obviously not.
O.P.O.G.G. - Fighting the attempted devolution of the rEVOLution
Ron Paul 2012...and beyond
I understand
I was really surprised when he endorsed "the killer from kenya" in '08.
"The problem is not those in power, the problem is right between your ears." ~Larken Rose
Give up your Heroin Jimbob
Give up your Heroin Jimbob and then let's talk.
The world is my country, all mankind are my brethren, and to do good things is my religion. Thomas Paine, Godfather of the American Revolution
Give up your Heroin Jimbob
Give up your Heroin Jimbob and then let's talk.
The world is my country, all mankind are my brethren, and to do good things is my religion. Thomas Paine, Godfather of the American Revolution
Would brandishing a firearm against a violent intruder
with children in the home not be an example of protecting our children? Another 'for the children' straw man. Sacrificing rights never equates to protecting children.
I guess James Taylor would attack an armed intruder with an accousitc guitar.
He would strum them into a
He would strum them into a coma.
Those who would sacrifice liberty...
think their children will thank them for it?
JT is a mental institution and Laurel Canyon graduate:
He is a fine musician and songwriter, but a dupe at best.
Love or fear? Choose again with every breath.
Circular logic. "need to make
Circular logic.
"need to make some sacrifices to children's freedoms in order to keep children safe"
Taylor is assuming children never grow into adults.
Southern Agrarian
wow will he pay for my bodyguard?
he is a Hollywood Nazi! i feel we need more guns to scare off those puppet elites!
What other rights does this
What other rights does this elitist think we should sacrifice?


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Come and celebrate our first Christmas at 26 Sackville Street, London W1S 3HE. Our new urban tweeds are here as well as our seriously exciting ready to wear collection.
Choose a few presents whilst sipping some mull and if you whisper 'mistletoe' into Holly's ear we will give you an Xmas discount of 10%.
See you on 17th December anytime noon till nine.


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Final Note - Most Commented
Americans spend 4% of household income on gasoline
Feb 4, 2013
The Energy Department said today the average American household now spends $2,900 a year on gas.
The last time the Dow was above 14,000...
Feb 1, 2013
Looking back at what's changed since the last time the Dow Industrial Jones Average reached above 14,000.
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Dolce and Gabbana to release perfume for babies
Jan 30, 2013
The new fragrance will have notes of citrus, melon and honey.
A listener's response to bookless libraries
Jan 29, 2013
After our interview about a library containing only e-books and e-readers, a listener tells us her thoughts.
Twitter's Vine makes porn video an 'editor's pick'
Jan 28, 2013
The new app, which allows users to post and share six-second-long videos, chose a pornographic video this morning as its Editor's Pick. Whoops.
Kai Ryssdal vs. Garrison Keillor: The public radio Hunger Games
Jan 25, 2013
A thought for a Friday: If you had a public radio Hunger Games, who would win?
Jack Lew turned down a different nomination
Jan 24, 2013
The Jewish Daily Forward newspaper recounts an anecdote where Lew was once asked to serve as the treasurer at his local synagogue.
Defense Secretary Panetta lifts ban on women in combat
Jan 23, 2013
Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta announced today that he was lifting a military ban on women in combat, opening up thousands of positions on the front lines.
Dow, S&P at five-year high; VIX drops to five-year low
Jan 22, 2013
Two of the major stock indices closed at five-year highs today, while the CBOE Volatility Index drops to its lowest since April 2007.


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Recent Watercolor
'Art Quilt Design #1' (20" x 30") was created in Katie Pasquini Masopust's "From Watercolor To Quilt" workshop November 3-6 at Art Quilt Tahoe. My first art quilt, in progress.
Latest News: Upcoming Shows and Activities
"The Blacksmith" (22" x 15") has been recognized as a Finalist is the June 2014 Boldbrush Painting Contest and has been accepted into the 46th Watercolor West International Juried Exhibition where it received the Henry and Fujiko Fukuhara Memorial Award. It will be on display at the City of Brea Art Gallery, Los Angeles, from October 11 - December 14, 2014. It has also been accepted into the April 2015 Watercolor Artist magazine's "Watermedia Showcase" as an honorable mention.
"Tulips For Sale" is included in the Alaska Watercolor Society's Annual All Member's Show from November 7 - 29 with a First Friday reception from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, November 7, at L'Aroma Cafe, located at 9900 Old Seward Hwy (corner of 100th Ave.)


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Pickle's of Monroe, MS
Mary Leona Pickle married several times, her brother Frank passed july 23 2008 in Columbus MS.
Mary Leona married a Strickland which is how I fit in and am in touch with the family still.
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Free Comic Book Day
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PREVIEWSworld's Featured This Week Comics and Graphic Novels for 11/26
Every week we call attention to those books and graphic novels which stand out from all the rest. These titles from Premier Vendors and independent publishers should be at the top of your list, and can be found at your local comic shop on November 26th! Titles include
Gotham By Midnight #1
and more!
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Diamond Announces Top Products for October 2014
Image Comics'
The Walking Dead
#132 was October's best-selling comic book.
Ms. Marvel
Volume 1 from Marvel Comics was the month's best-selling graphic novel. Marvel Comics was the month's top publisher.
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Sneak PREVIEWS: Look What's in December's Catalog
The December issue of
, featuring Lee Bermejo's
from DC Comics/Vertigo on its front cover, arrives in comic shops November 26th, showcasing products scheduled to go on sale beginning February 2015. You can get a sneak preview of the issue now by checking out the Premier and Catalog Sections for the December Gems and Featured Items!
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Top 100 Comics: October 2014
The survivors of the zombie apocalypse discover a new threat — zombies armed with guns — in Robert Kirkman's
The Walking Dead
#132 from Image Comics, the best-selling comic book in October.
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Top 100 Graphic Novels: October 2014
G. Willow Wilson's acclaimed
Ms. Marvel
Volume 1:
No Normal
from Marvel Comics was the best-selling graphic novel in October.
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Twizel, New Zealand
10 Mackenzie Drive, 7901 Twizel, New Zealand – Show map
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9 properties in Twizel
Including hotels, apartments, villas and more.
435 verified reviews
We verify all reviews from guests who have stayed at Aspen Court Motel Twizel. Find out more.
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BBQ Facilities, Grounds, Terrace, Sun Deck
Golf Course (within 2 miles), Fishing, Skiing, Hiking, Cycling, Horseback Riding, Mini Golf, Library
Food & Drink
Breakfast in the Room, Snack Bar
WiFi is available in all areas and is free of charge.
Free private parking is available on site (reservation is not needed).
Laundry, Fax/Photocopying
Non-smoking Rooms, Facilities for Disabled Guests, Family Rooms, Soundproof Rooms, Heating, Air Conditioning, Designated Smoking Area
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to room type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check what conditions apply to your preferred room.
Children and Extra Beds
All children are welcome.
All children under 4 years stay free of charge when using existing beds.
All children under 2 years stay free of charge in a crib.
All older children or adults are charged NZD 25 per person per night for extra beds.
The maximum number of extra beds in a room is 2.
The maximum number of cribs in a room is 1.
Any type of extra bed or crib is upon request and needs to be confirmed by management.
Additional fees are not calculated automatically in the total cost and will have to be paid for separately during your stay.
Pets are not allowed.
Cards accepted at this property
Hover over the cards for more info.
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Featuring a private patio with lovely garden views, Mountain Chalets is just 5 minutes' drive from Lake Ruatanhiwha. It features a barbecue area with outdoor seating, and 50 MB of free Wi-Fi daily.
Score from 256 reviews Very good
High Country Lodge, Motels & BackpackersLocated in Twizel, High Country Lodge, Motels & Backpackers offers a variety of accommodation with free onsite parking. Guests have access to a shared kitchen, a communal terrace and a guest lounge.
Score from 5 reviews Good
Located 500 metres from the town centre, Twizel Holiday Park is located in Twizel. Guests receive 50 megabytes of free WiFi per day. Various types of accommodation provide a fan, heating and a patio.
Score from 8 reviews Very good
Boasting free WiFi and views of the Southern Alps, Matuka Luxury Lodge is located on the Alps to Ocean Cycleway. All rooms feature a patio offering mountain views.
Score from 30 reviews Exceptional
Clean comfortable room with beautiful views of the snow capped mountains. Close to town centre, restaurants and shops. Would recommend to anyone.
Good room. Inadequately trained staff. They didnt know what number to dial for an outside line and didnt know the local region to give us a feel for conditions
See above
Cleanliness and a very friendly place to stay.
Quiet, clean, good quality bedding, and chairs in the room so that you didn't need to sit on the bed to relax or watch tv. Free wifi. Excellent bathroom for disabled guests. Packet of tissues provided.
No dishwasher or paper towels.
Really friendly & helpful staff, Fantastic location, Comfy bed
That we didn't stay longer!
Spacious two bedroomed apartment easily accommodating 4 adults. Beds very comfortable.
Refuse bin in kitchen area had not been emptied. Wifi not very efficient.
The motel was in an excellent position to access any of the services you would need while travelling including, restaurants, pubs, supermarket, and sundry shops as well as close to the local petrol station. While close to all of these facilities the room was surprisingly quiet and represented great value for money
Nothing at all
The total package, service, cleanliness, size of room, quietness, environment all top class
Nothing sorry can or have any reason you complain
The location is good but Twizel is a small town so I guess a good location is a given!
The room had an overpowering smell of some sort of artificial spray / scent product which played havoc with my lungs. I'm all for a clean room but fresh air is usually a given in New Zealand! Also the various notes around the room telling guests what they cannot do is very negative from a marketing point of view - How about one big note saying "Welcome, enjoy your stay" It is a motel after all and not a school room!
Friendly and helpful staff. Conveniently located near restaurants. Very clean. Plenty of room. Nice interior design.
Good accomodations. Outside is plain, but don't be deceived. Inside was very good.
Good lighting, kitchen, comfortable bed and chairs. Very clean and spacious. Friendly staff.
Service was friendly and professional. Very clean amazing hot shower!!
Couldn't stay longer.
Quietness. Location.
Very friendly staff, great location, amazing value for money, very clean, everything we needed
Pan was horrible and everything stuck to it. Knives were blunt
The friendly and helpfulness of the owners. The location was very good and we found it easy to get to local attractions.
Close to restaurants. Motel was newly renovated with new furniture a pleasure to stay there. Kitchen great, staff great, spa bath, nice beds & fluffy pillows.
We stayed one night in a one bedroom unit. Plenty of room to move and comfortable seating. Nice clean unit with everything needed for a short stay.
Our unit was set right on the road and unfortunately the motel was full so we couldn't change units. As it turned out the road noise wasn't too bad.
We like to stay Room 11, will be back.
Had a fab weekend away...friends stayed in another room which was great...we were able to relax outside and enjoy bbqs together. Apartment was very warm, cosy and clean. Hosts were very helpful and friendly. Close walk to the shops...all round just an awesome weekend!
Good access to Mt Cook
Parking - not clearly defined NZ$10 for a self do wash and dry
All around good clean comfortable accommodation in a good location
Stuffs are excellent. The motel room is roomy. Two queens plus stove. The bath has a Jacuzzi tub that is great after a long hiking. The heater is warm.
The wifi is on & off when I was there.
convenient location, friendly and helpful hostess, ensuite mini kitchen.
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11th Annual Bayou Teche Black Bear Festival
The 11th Annual Bayou Teche Black Bear Festival will take place from April 11 – 13, 2014, in downtown Franklin, Louisiana. The focus of the festival is educating the public about the Louisiana black bear, a species listed as "threatened" by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, along with all the components of a traditional south Louisiana festival: great music and food, arts and crafts, and educational activities for both adults and children.
Traditional events, like the Running of the


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November 27, 2014
Fact or Fiction
Fact or Fiction: Big Bang, Brothers & Sisters and CSI
by Allison Waldman, posted Nov 9th 2009 1:01PM
Welcome to our new feature, TV Squad readers. How well do you know what you think you know about television? Play our little trivia game, Fact or Fiction. We'll state the premise, then tell you the reality, i.e. the fact or the fiction. By the way, if you have ideas for Fact or Fiction, or questions you'd like us to figure out, share with us in the comments.
Fact or Fiction: When Chuck Lorre originally created The Big Bang Theory, the boys were dominated by a nasty neighbor named Katie.
Fact! Chuck Lorre told Watch magazine's Jim Colluci that a year before The Big Bang Theory was picked up by CBS, the first pilot had a female character named Katie. She manipulated the guys. "It was like shooting fish in a barrel. It didn't work," Johnny Galecki told Colluci. The problem was that Sheldon, Leonard, Raj and Howard were and are essentially innocents and without maliciousness. The idea of a woman taking advantage of their innocence was not only mean, it wasn't funny. The writers went back to the drawing board -- so to speak -- and, thus, the character of sweet, gentle Penny was born.
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