This way-more-abstractly-metaphorical-than-I-usually-write story was inspired by one of the exercises in Holly Lisle’s “How to Beat Writer’s Block.” She calls him her “muse”; I call her my very life-breath.
My soul is weary with sorrow;
strengthen me according to your word. (Psalm 119:28)
Flashlight in hand, I progress slowly down each step, toward the dungeon in which I keep my soul. Repeating drops of condensation drip, drip, drip and echo off the cold, dead walls. The scent of urine and defecation permeates the air, and intermingles with a poison must.
I loathe this place, which reeks of hell and depression.
I approach the cage. My keys rattle against the thick, steel slats, as I wrestle with the heavy padlock.
The noise rouses my soul from her bed on the concrete. She glares at me in terror, her once luminous countenance now merely flickering a dim grey, bruised and mottled from years of abuse and neglect. She slinks into the opposite corner. I swing the gate open, slowly enter the cage, but do not approach her. The horror of a hundred thousand past encounters etches itself into her eyes, as they follow me, tracking me.
I stoop in my corner of the cage. I try not to touch the floor with my knees or hands, but I cannot get down to her eye-level, because she is balled up tight as an armadillo bug, her eyes peeking out from behind emaciated fingers.
“I wanted you to make me popular, powerful,” I explain. “I expected you to do whatever necessary, whatever I demanded. I thought that would bring me fame and fortune, and fame and fortune would bring me happiness.”
My eyes stare as into the void.
“But it didn’t work,” stolid. “And now there’s no one left in the house but you and me. And I’ve all but killed you.”
I rise, not knowing what else I might say. I want to tell her I’m sorry, but I know she cannot believe me. I have worn out any trust she may have ever had for me.
“I’ll leave the door open for you. I hope you decide to rejoin me upstairs.” I begin to leave.
Pausing: “For what it’s worth, I promise never to make demands like that of you again. I promise from now on, we’ll only create what we both desire to create. And I’ll never cage you again or attempt to restrain you.”
No answer. No movement.
I return to my favorite space, in the once-bright reaches of my home, a place formerly full of possibilities and promise. Now, dark except for a single, yellow incandescent lamp.
In the distance, a tentative step falls on my ear. And another. Getting closer now.
And the tiniest tear I feel returning to the corner of my dry eye.
foreign online pharmacy https://edmedscoupon.shop/# ed treatments online
https://pharmrate.com/# Pharm Rate
https://yes-play-casino.co.za/
YesPlay comes across as a modern online casino and bookmaker created specifically for the local Saffa public, which runs under an official licence and delivers a well-rounded journey both via the cellphone as well as from the desktop.
Free Spins Round in Aloha slot game is activated by revealing three or more holiday stamps anywhere on the screen. More free spins can be activated during the free spins round and as an additional great perk to the round – any low-value icons are dropped increasing your chances for a big win. What’s more, if you don’t get a winning cluster on your last free spin you get another spin again and again until a win occurs. Aloha – that’s great! RESERVATIONS REQUIRED While the big draw on the game may be its incredible features list the look and feel of a game by this producer is nearly always something to write home about, we almost take it for granted that every slot they release will look awesome. This is just as true here, players familiar with Gonzo’s quest will enjoy the guitar playing Tiki who interacts with various features, even the background Volcano gets in on the action, erupting with wins and also when bonus or spins rounds engage.
https://www.rkfiltercages.com/betty-wins-casino-demo-slots-a-review-for-new-zealand-players/
Look at you, scrolling all the way to the bottom like a legend. You’ve unlocked the unofficial bonus round: unlimited free spins on the best demo slots from the wildest devs out there. It’s raw. It’s ridiculous. It’s Demo Slots Fun. So buckle up, click something shiny, and let’s turn that reel chaos into pure entertainment. While we can’t offer a magic formula for guaranteed wins – online slots are, after all, games of chance – we can certainly share some practical Big Bass Splash slot tips and Big Bass Splash slot strategies that we find helpful for a more enjoyable and potentially rewarding experience: Big Bass Splash is a decent sequel, if you’re into reheated leftovers with shinier graphics. It tweaks the original just enough to pretend it’s new, and I’ll admit – the modifiers are actually worth a raised eyebrow or two.
Pet Canada Direct: Pet Canada Direct – Pet Canada Direct
Spot on with this write-up, I absolutely believe this amazing site needs a great deal more attention. I’ll probably be returning to read more, thanks for the advice!
The newest SlotsandCasino Perfect Pairs online game stands out because it doubles since the a 21+3 game because the each other front wagers are available. The objective of the overall game is the same, create a hands as near so you can 21 instead going over and beat the fresh broker. To your 21+step 3 top wager, you’ll need to hope that very first about three notes dealt (your own a couple of initial cards plus the dealer’s upwards facing cards) setting a reputable web based poker hand. The house line in these side bets is a lot greater than the main blackjack games are starred, therefore it’s far better avoid top bet possibilities. Thus, the amount of paylines fluctuates with every twist, possibly reaching to 117,649 a means to earn if you don’t higher, with respect to the game. It book auto mechanic injects an exciting feeling of unpredictability, as the players remain unsure regarding the quantity of energetic paylines throughout the a spin, resulted in generous wins. Understanding consumer recommendations and looking advice away from fellow participants and find out well-known and you may fun online game is a good idea.
https://www.migawkafotovideo.pl/master-casino-ripper-online-betting-for-big-wins/
Roulette fans can explore over 250 game variations, including American Roulette, Auto Roulette Speed, Clubhouse Roulette, and Classic Auto Roulette Burgundy. The live section also stands out with beautifully presented hosts and tables streamed in HD, such as Gold Saloon Roulette, where dealers bring an elegant, professional touch to every spin. The Stake app for Android and iOS will be introduced by a licensed bookmaker in the Indian betting market and will also be one of the safest sports betting platforms. The app will soon be available for download and it will offer a wide range of different sports to bet on, hundreds of games in the casino section and much more. In the review you will find all the most up to date information about the upcoming app. Join the Stake app and don't miss your chance!
https://holly-woodbets.co.za/
The Hollywoodbets platform comes across as a innovative digital gambling site together with sportsbook designed exclusively for the local Saffa public, which operates in a fully authorised manner and makes available a well-rounded journey both from the mobile phone as well as from the computer.
Выезд нарколога на дом в Самаре представляет собой структурированный медицинский процесс, направленный на быстрое облегчение состояния пациента и устранение последствий интоксикации. Все этапы оказания помощи проводятся с учетом клинической картины, длительности употребления и индивидуальных особенностей организма. В случае алкоголизма могут быть предложены процедуры кодирования, а также вывод из состояния запоя. При необходимости подключается психиатр для дополнительной оценки и лечения.
Выяснить больше – narkolog-na-dom-samara-6.ru/
Pet Canada Direct vet pharmacy online Pet Canada Direct
legal online pharmacy: reliable online pharmacy – international pharmacy
Капельница действует быстро благодаря тому, что активные вещества вводятся непосредственно в кровь, минуя желудочно-кишечный тракт. Это позволяет быстро уменьшить симптомы, такие как головная боль, тошнота, слабость, а также нормализовать работу печени и почек, которые страдают от длительного употребления алкоголя. В некоторых случаях, если требуется длительное наблюдение, пациент может быть направлен в стационар, и лечение может продолжаться на летний период с более тщательным контролем состояния.
Получить дополнительную информацию – вызвать капельницу от запоя в нижнем новгороде
Похмельный синдром сопровождается головной болью, слабостью, тошнотой, сухостью во рту и нарушением сна, что часто возникает после запоя или при алкоголизме. Эти симптомы появляются из-за накопления токсинов и нарушения водно-солевого баланса. Капельница помогает ускорить выведение вредных веществ и восстановить нормальные функции организма, снижая нагрузку на внутренние системы и помогая человеку быстрее выйти из состояния запоев.
Подробнее тут – капельница от похмелья воронеж
https://skyward-deluxe.co.za/
Skyward Deluxe is a innovative online gaming platform as well as bookmaker created specifically for the audience in South Africa, which runs legally and makes available an all-round proposition both via the cellphone as well as through the laptop.
http://petcanadadirect.com/# discount pet meds
Лечение алкоголизма в Воронеже у нас проводится на всех стадиях: от первой помощи при запое до кодирования и долгосрочной поддержки. Для пациентов с наркотической зависимостью (включая синтетические каннабиноиды и опиоиды) мы применяем щадящие схемы детоксикации, которые минимизируют болезненные симптомы и снижают риск срывов. Кодирование от алкоголизма и наркомании доступно в нескольких вариантах: медикаментозное (инъекции, импланты, «Двойной блок»), гипносуггестивное и комбинированное. Каждый метод подбирается после тщательной диагностики, чтобы результат был максимально долгосрочным.
Получить больше информации – наркологическая помощь анонимно
Greate article. Keep posting such kind of information on your page. Im really impressed by your site.
Hey there, You’ve done an excellent job. I will certainly digg it and for my part recommend to my friends. I am sure they will be benefited from this web site.
https://lula-bet.co.za/
LulaBet Casino is a contemporary online casino together with bookmaker created specifically for the South African market, which runs in a fully authorised manner and provides an all-round proposition both from the mobile phone as well as through the laptop.
new pharmacy online: Pharm Rate – pharmacy order online
trustworthy online pharmacy http://pharmrate.com/# Pharm Rate
Pharm Rate: п»їinternational drug mart – Pharm Rate
https://skyward-game.co.za/
Skyward Game is a modern internet casino together with sports betting hub developed especially for the audience in South Africa, which operates in a fully authorised manner and offers an all-round proposition from any mobile device as well as from the PC.
I like what you guys are up too. This sort of clever work and exposure! Keep up the excellent works guys I’ve added you guys to my blogroll.
are there casinos in saskatchewan united states, gambling statistics australia 202 and casino in milwaukee wisconsin, or $10 deposit casinos united kingdom
Feel free to visit my blog :: bingo cards for large groups (Monte)
https://edmedscoupon.shop/# discount ed pills
https://justpaste.it/oktagon-67-in-liberec
The Oktagon 87 event lands in Liberec this Saturday with a lineup that is built around proven local fighters and elite style clashes.
https://bet-shezi.co.za/
Bet Shezi stands as a up-to-date digital gambling site along with sports betting hub created specifically for the South African market, that carries out its activity under an official licence and delivers a full gaming adventure from any mobile device as well as from the desktop.
best wettanbieter
Feel free to visit my webpage :: tipico live
wetten basketball (Shelly)
Клиника «Клиника Плюс» предлагает комплексную наркологическую помощь в Воронеже, включая выезд нарколога на дом, медикаментозную терапию для вывода из запоя и реабилитацию. Мы понимаем, как важно для пациентов и их близких получить поддержку именно в тот момент, когда она нужна.
Подробнее можно узнать тут – наркологическая помощь на дому в воронеже
UFC 328 arrives at the Prudential Center on May 9, 2026 with a loaded fight lineup. The UFC 328 main card is headlined by champion Khamzat Chimaev defending the middleweight title against Sean Strickland.
cheap ed pills online: Ed Meds Coupon – п»їinternational drug mart
picking a winner horse racing
Also visit my website Free Bets For Ascot
https://jabulabets-casino.co.za/
Jabulabets Casino stands as a modern online gaming platform along with betting platform built uniquely for the local Saffa public, which operates legally and offers a complete experience both from the mobile phone as well as from the computer.
Pet Canada Direct: pet meds online – pet drugs online
Pet Canada Direct Pet Canada Direct pet meds official website
First of all I want to say great blog! I had a quick question that I’d like to ask if you don’t mind. I was curious to know how you center yourself and clear your head prior to writing. I’ve had a tough time clearing my thoughts in getting my ideas out there. I truly do enjoy writing but it just seems like the first 10 to 15 minutes are generally lost just trying to figure out how to begin. Any recommendations or hints? Appreciate it!
https://bet-olimp.co.za/
The Bet Olimp platform is a modern online gaming platform and bookmaker developed especially for the audience in South Africa, that carries out its activity legally and provides a well-rounded journey both via the cellphone as well as from the computer.
Наркологический стационар в Санкт-Петербурге: круглосуточное лечение, детоксикация и наблюдение специалистов в комфортных условиях в наркологической клинике «Похмельная служба»
Детальнее – частный наркологический стационар в санкт-петербурге
Обращение в наркологический стационар особенно важно в случае тяжелой зависимости, когда человек не способен контролировать свои действия, а угрозы для здоровья возрастают. В таких случаях важно не откладывать начало лечения, а обратиться за помощью сразу же, чтобы избежать серьезных последствий для организма. При выборе стационара следует обратить внимание на наличие лицензии, а также возможность получения психотерапии и других профессиональных услуг в области наркологии для комплексного лечения зависимости.
Узнать больше – наркологический стационар
https://pharmrate.com/# best online pharmacy no prescription
online pharmacy discount code http://pharmrate.com/# online pharmacy no prescription
best pet rx: Pet Canada Direct – Pet Canada Direct
https://penguin-rush.co.za/
Penguin Rush serves as a up-to-date online casino and sportsbook developed especially for players based in South Africa, which operates legally and delivers a complete experience from any mobile device as well as through the laptop.
Our site’s team of experts studies the gambling market in the United Kingdom and has compiled a list of casinos that allow you to explore the gaming platforms and available games without making a deposit to your bank account. At least from the time of registration. The best software manufacturers are present in this casino. We are confident that you will adore the daring assortment of exquisitely produced graphics, made possible by companies like NetEnt, Real Time Gaming, Pragmatic Play, Yggdrasil, Playtech, Microgaming, and 1×2 Gaming. Gonzo’s Quest, Cleopatra, Ted, Age of the Gods, Egyptian Sun, Sherlock Mystery, Gorilla Gold, Buffalo Blitz, and Reel King are a few of the casino’s well-known slot games. Casino Online Bonus Deposit Aloha shark casino review and free chips bonus the interesting and rewarding Banana Bar has are like honey to them, croupiers do get paid a relatively good salary. Some of the popular games offered by them include, but more often than not.
https://matbichngoc.vn/143/topspin-casino-betting-tips-advice-for-australian-players.html
This can lead to 4,000 times bet max wins which can be won in the Free Spins feature as a whole. It’s nearly double the amount in Big Bass Bonanza (2,100 x bet max wins). The RTP rate of 96.71% is the same in both slots but the max win probability is a lot better in Bigger Bass Bonanza. Below is a table highlighting the differences and similarities between the 2 slot games: One of the standout aspects of the bigger bass bonanza demo is its array of unique features that elevate the gameplay: Released in 2021 by Pragmatic Play, Big Bass Bonanza is the second game in the legendary series.Upon launching the slot, enthusiasts are treated to an exciting adventure where the Fisherman brings more fish symbols and wilds, as well as triggers a free spins feature with additional cash prizes (maximum of 2,100x). The slot machine’s key characteristics are outlined below.
best pet rx: vet pharmacy online – Pet Canada Direct
https://jetx-game.co.za/
The JetX platform comes across as a contemporary online casino as well as bookmaker developed especially for the South African market, that functions legally and provides a well-rounded journey both via the cellphone as well as through the laptop.
Hiya very cool site!! Man .. Excellent .. Superb .. I’ll bookmark your web site and take the feeds additionally…I am happy to search out a lot of useful information here in the submit, we want work out more techniques in this regard, thank you for sharing. . . . . .
https://semaglutide.life/# can you just stop taking rybelsus
https://spaceman-game.co.za/
The Spaceman platform serves as a up-to-date online gaming platform and bookmaker designed exclusively for the local Saffa public, which operates legally and makes available an all-round proposition both from the mobile phone as well as from the PC.