Home & Garden Expo Design Challenge: Stone Cottage

The Home and Garden Expo this year has must-see attractions such as a preview of the NEW mesh Linden Homes for premium members, and the rideable animesh Teegle Horse, as well as excellent hunt goodies including a car in the Expo Hunt, speakers and workshops, not to mention purchasable homes, decor and garden items to support the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. ...And then there is what has kept me busy the past week....

The Home & Garden Expo's Decorating Competition!

It's even bigger and better this year! 16 winners drawn in a lottery compete to decorate 1 of 16 different style homes. There's a 500 prim limit and 1 week to decorate. Once the decorating period ends, the houses are voted on by visitors by paying the Kiosk in front of each house. All money goes to a good cause.

This year, I took the feedback I received from last year's competition, and applied it to this year. I paid extra attention to the garden, land impact, lived-in decor, and staying on theme with the style of the home. It's an intense challenge. Each time I try it, my decorating skills improve. Hey, ...Why not try it yourself next year?

My idea for "House 11- Stone Cottage" is French Country & Artist.
Please visit my house, and if you like it, or other houses, please vote!  Merci beaucoup!
Home & Garden Expo Design Challenge: House 11 - Stone Cottage
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Hope%202/171/29/27


Front Garden:
House: Love Everlasting LE ~ Stone Cottage Roof [mesh](Relay For Life)
Ground cover: .Lunaria. Purple Tulip Field [mesh](Relay For Life, Hope 1)
Street Lamp: Atelier Visconti A.V. Noir Triple Street Lantern [mesh]
Grass: Fanatik Architecture: GRASS (group gift) free
Planter: Dysfunctionality [DDD] Barrel Planter - Simple Ferns [mesh]
Pathway, ground texture: HappyMood HPMD Dirt Road - brown [mesh]
Tree: 3D Trees Wisteria 6 prims M/T (80L)
Hanging Ivy: Dysfunctionality [DDD] Draping Ivy - Large Clump [mesh]
Wall: Never Totally Dead Mur Parc Lutiniere

Storyline of house: Louis couldn't believe it. He had been a lowly art student in America, but after taking a DNA test and working on his family tree, the most unlikely thing happened.... Long story short, he inherited the family's ancestral home in France. It was fully furnished too. But there was one catch to his ownership, -- he was the estate's new caretaker. If he failed to properly maintain the cottage, someone else would get the job.

Sounds like a dream come true, right? Well, he learned quickly its neither easy nor cheap to maintain such an old building. So many things required urgent repair. He needed to find a way to make money quickly. At first he tried offering tours of the home, then he tried opening the house for weddings. Then one day while working in his secret artist's studio in the attic, inspiration struck. His pet cat Gigi made the most curious pose. It reminded him of a famous painting. He quickly started a remake of this masterpiece, but with a cat instead of a person.

His whimsical Cat Paintings were a hit with tourists. They were selling in Paris, and he had the waiting list of patron to paint each of their cats in their own famous painting. He was never hurting for money again. The family was so impressed, they decided his most famous painting would become a permanent part of the family estate. It would become the duty of the next generation to protect his painting, his legacy, along with the rest of the family estate.

Roof Garden:
Plants: BlossomMeshObjectShop [BMS] Hydrangea Flowerpot [mesh](Relay For Life, Hope 3)
Hedge: by Felix Gacha Hedge Set Bullet 1 Prim, gacha[mesh](Relay For Life, Hope 2)
Hedge: Botanical Seasonal Boxwood Hedge Straight 2x1x1 [mesh]
Recliner: NOMAD Garden Recliner A, gacha [mesh]
Recliner: NOMAD Garden Recliner B, gacha [mesh]
Overhang 3D Trees hanging wisteria + animated C/M (120L)
Mirror: {anc} Looking-glass oval mirror amber 2Li, gacha [mesh]
Potted Topiary: hive cone boxwood topiary[mesh](150L)
Topiary: Trompe Loeil Odette Topiary 10 Tall  [mesh]
Planter: Aethis Creations AC Modern Planter 2A metal [mesh]
Water: NEKKA 0.5LI mesh water illusion [mesh]
Gravel: textures.com

TIPS: Make your home look lived in. Add elements that you would see in a real house, and include all the necessities, even pets, but keep in mind your prim limit.

Kitchen:
Kitchen furniture: Consignment Catia Kitchen set [mesh]
Hood: Apple Fall Plantation Stove Hood (Whitewashed) [mesh]
Basket: Apple Fall Hanging Wicker Basket [mesh]
Scales: Apple Fall Neva's Antique Scales [mesh]
Bread: Apple Fall Poppy Seed Loaves [mesh]
Kitchen utensils: vespertine hanging tools /copper 3, gacha [mesh]
Stool: noctis Medieval Scholar's stool [mesh]
Plant: Apple Fall Basil Sproutlings [mesh]
Plant hanger: Organica Hanging Bamboo Herb Planter [mesh]
Scale: Apple Fall Neva's Antique Scales  [mesh]
Salt & pepper: Pixel Mode salt & pepper mills [mesh](75% off sale)
Teapot: Pixel Mode The Kitchen - Copper Kettle [mesh](75% off sale)
Bottles: Apple Fall Ceramic Bottles [mesh]
Food: 8f8 14 primavera in Toscana Gourmet Set, gacha [mesh]
Wine: Apple Fall Argentinian Malbec[mesh]
Cat: JIAN Pudgy Persians 17 Black Grubbin' Kitten, gacha [mesh]
Brick wall, floor: textures.com

TIPS: Got a problem spot? Don't be afraid to throw down prim floors, or raise a wall. Sometimes a simple fix solves many problems.

Living Room:
Table: Nutmeg Romanov's Golden Dresser [mesh]
Roses: Apple Fall 8. Roses Jug, gacha [mesh]
Armchair, sofa, coffee table, side table, candlestick: Fancy Decor Faline Fatpack - Tapestry [mesh]
Rug: Apple Fall Althea Rug - Antique Light [mesh]
Books: Apple Fall Design Books [mesh]
Books: Apple Fall AF Reading Pile, gacha [mesh]
Chandelier: Death Row 27.DRD MB halway hanging chandelier, gacha [mesh]
Wall lanterns: Death Row 33.DRD MB wall chandelier, gacha [mesh]
Wall panel: LISP Artemis Panel Wall Thin Warm [mesh]
Fireplace: Apple Fall Hampton Outdoor Fireplace [mesh]
Chimney extension: textures.com

TIPS: This can be a crazy expensive project, so keep an eye out deals like the Pixel Mode 75% off sale going on right now, or the popular Apple Fall Pancake Breakfast which sharp eye visitors will spot in almost all the houses this year! (It was part of last weekend's The Saturday Sale)

Dining Room:
Chandelier: The Looking Glass Torch Singer Chandelier, gacha [mesh](Relay For Life, Hope 2)
Armchair: Nutmeg Romanov's Golden Armchair White [mesh]
Accent Chair: Nutmeg Accent Gilt Chair [mesh]
Rug: Dutchie blue and green rug [mesh]
Plant: Soy Super long Hanging Hedera [mesh]
Table: Apple Fall Plantation Dining Table (Whitewashed) [mesh]
Pancakes: Apple Fall West Village Pancake Breakfast Board [mesh]
Tea set: Apple Fall AF Tea Time Teaset, gacha [mesh]
Tea: Apple Fall {af} Lemon Tea, gacha [mesh]
Toast: Apple Fall {af} Toast & Butter, gacha [mesh]
Lilacs: Apple Fall {af} Lustful Lilacs, gacha [mesh]
Sidetable: Apple Fall Chinese Credenza [mesh]
Bowl: Fancy Decor Faline Handled Bowl, Faline Fatpack - Tapestry [mesh]
Drapes: Opi - Mesh Curtains & Pillows Arched Drape Curtain [mesh]

TIP: Sometimes you may need to be creative over a home issue. For instance, the neighboring house has a very different style. To keep the mood and theme of my home visually intact, I used a simple one prim wall with an excellent medieval brick texture on the sides of my home. ...Another creative solution I used was use a teleport system to access areas not reachable by walking.

Hallways:
Harpsichord: Fancy Decor Harpsichord RARE, gacha [mesh]
Table: Fancy Decor Opulent Half-Moon Table RARE, gacha [mesh]
Plant: Apple Fall Hydrangea Bunch - Pink [mesh]
Drapes: Opi - Mesh Curtains & Pillows Arched Drape Curtain [mesh]
Suitcase: Apple Fall AF Worn Luggage Bag [mesh]
Coat Rack: Unlikely Designs ::UD:: Black Coat Rack [mesh]

TIPS: Link objects to save prims. Do it to ONLY to non-scultped, no script, or items that contain no poses and animations. And do NOT try this with your non-copy Gacha wins. You could explode the prim count on the item and be unable to fix it.

Bathroom:
Curtain, tub, sink, towel: Con & floorplan Bathroom set [mesh]
Caddy: Pixel Mode Ansley Bath Caddy, gacha [mesh](closing sale 75% off)
Curio: Apple Fall 4. Blanket Curio, gacha [mesh]
Toilet: Apple Fall Lange Toilet [mesh]
Mirror: Kalopsia Le Miroire de la Marquise [mesh]
Rug: [noctis] butterorange rug 1li [mesh]
Radiator: Apple Fall Apple Fall Victorian Radiator [mesh]
Wall scones: Death Row 33.DRD MB wall chandelier small, gacha  [mesh]
Cabinet: Apple Fall Petit Ami Medicine Cabinet [mesh]
Basket: Apple Fall Neva's Laundry Basket [mesh]

TIPS: Don't use sets exactly as they rez out of the box. Show your creativity by mixing and matching decor items, even combine them!

Bedroom:
Chaise Lounge: The Looking Glass The Torch Singer Chaise, gacha[mesh](Relay For Life, Hope 2)
Bed frame: Death Row 38. DRD MB bastion Bed, gacha [mesh]
Bed: Apple Fall AF Aristocrat Bed RARE, gacha [mesh]
Wall panel: LISP Artemis Panel Wall Thin Warm [mesh]
Tapestries: *paper moon* Coppen - Apollo and Daphne [mesh]
Clock: Apple Fall AF Carriage Clock, gacha [mesh]
Pillow: Apple Fall AF Pillow (Tree), gacha [mesh]
Pillow: Apple Fall AF Pillow (Horse Riding), gacha [mesh]
Pillow: Apple Fall AF Pillow (Script), gacha [mesh]
Rug: Apple Fall AF Ruffled Rug, gacha [mesh]
Sideboard: Apple Fall AF Fleur Sideboard (Mustard), gacha [mesh]
Mirror: {anc} Looking-glass. {magic mirror} HEAVEN 6Li RARE  [mesh]
Wardrobe: Bazar Glam-MALE closet 05 [mesh]
Wardrobe: Bazar Glam-MALE closet 04 [mesh]
Wardrobe: Bazar Glam-MALE closet 03 [mesh]
Wardrobe: Bazar Glam-MALE closet 02 [mesh]

Note: For my last 2 rooms, I tried to show the artistic process. It's a work space, a bit dirty and messy, but also has surreal elements to show the imagination of the artist. ...I  love including at least one really good interactive piece of furniture in a home. This room has easel and chaise lounge for artist and his muse. The drawing will gradually reveal and it'll exactly match the pose of the model! Pretty cool.

Attic:
Sketch art creator: Akaeshae RACT The Sketchbook [mesh]
Chaise Lounge: Noctis Belle Rouge Chaise Rose [mesh](255L)
Painting: [noctis] Vanitas painting 3/Ambrosius Bosschaert 1630, gacha [mesh]
Painting: [noctis] Vanitas painting 5/Edwaert Collier: 1663, gacha [mesh]
Stool: [noctis] Vanitas artist's stool wood, gacha [mesh]
Rug: Papermoon Round Rug 1 [mesh](past hunt gift)
Canvas: vive atelier 10 Artists Stack of Canvas' Clean, gacha [mesh]
Ceiling lamp: vive atelier 11 Artists Studio Ceiling Light Copper, gacha [mesh]
Sketchbook: vive atelier 09 Artists Sketchboo, gacha [mesh]
Curtains: Kalopsia Flying Curtain [mesh]
Flying paper: Moon Amore Opera Romance Burning music sheets, gacha [mesh]
Birds: {anc} NO LIMITS flock of flying doves egg-yellow, gacha [mesh]
Mirror: {anc} Looking-glass oval mirror nickel 2Li, gacha [mesh]

Note: The final secret room is my happy ending for the home's owner. I love the fun CopyCat artworks by Nylon Outfitters. I included as many as I could fit. And at the end of the hall is cool animating painting by Blue Sky.  I hope you all liked my house!

Art Gallery:
Animated painting: BLUE SKY Animated Sky Painting - Landscape [mesh]
Picture Frame: Apple Fall AF Ornate Mirror [mesh]
Painting: Nylon Outfitters (NO) CopyCat Art - Cubist Cats, gacha [mesh]
Painting: Nylon Outfitters (NO) CopyCat Art - Picatso, gacha [mesh]
Painting: Nylon Outfitters (NO) CopyCat Art - Time to Eat?, gacha [mesh]
Painting: Nylon Outfitters (NO) CopyCat Art - Birth Of Max, gacha [mesh]
Painting: Nylon Outfitters (NO) CopyCat Art - Country Cats, gacha [mesh]
Painting: Nylon Outfitters (NO) CopyCat Art - Orphan Kitten, gacha [mesh]
Painting: Nylon Outfitters (NO) CopyCat Art - Portrait of Sasha, gacha [mesh]
Painting: Nylon Outfitters (NO) CopyCat Art - Whiskers & His Feather Toy, gacha [mesh]
Painting: Nylon Outfitters (NO) CopyCat Art - Yarn Face, gacha [mesh]
Painting: Nylon Outfitters (NO) CopyCat Art - La Catnip Danse, gacha [mesh]
Mirror: {anc} Looking-glass oval mirror gold 2Li, gacha [mesh]

Thank you for your help, Fulli and Akira!

Waking Quetzalcoatl

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STORYLINE: Drip, drip, drip. The passage of time was like the steady drip of water into his tomb. The Temple of the Moon had long since been forgotten. Thick jungle vines covered it's secret entrance. Unknown to him, the legend of the Feathered Serpent had become something he would barely recognize. He remembered the frantic prayers of the lake people. They called him Quetzalcoatl and begged him to strike down the false god, Cortez. But still he slept. Meddling in the affairs of humans is how he came to be in this cursed sleep. ...However, today was different. Cautious footsteps of a trespasser echoed in his maze. Trap after trap was sprung. He chuckled to himself. He had created many delicious ways for fools to die. There was a loud bang followed by a sharp metal swish. The scent of blood wafted in the damp air. He licked his parched lips. Had it been 4000 years since he last drank blood? He felt sad his entertainment was over. Wait. His eyes snapped opened. The steps were continuing. This could be no human. Who dared to invade his lair?!

Need a good scare for Halloween? Try the many ways to die in Madpea's wildly beloved game, Lost Treasure of the Inca Warrior. The game is ending soon! Shown above are a few prizes from the game, and also decor items you buy to pimp-out your very own Doom Tomb of Woe.

For more details, go here:
Lost Treasure of the Inca Warrior * Game Enhancers * Prizes * How to Play

On Him, Quetzalcoatl:
Skin appliers: Fallen Gods Scales Eclipse [xy] Omega, Slink, TMP (The Fantasy Collective)(660L)
Headdress, Weapon: Pucca Firecaster PFC Inca Crown, Scepter [mesh](Lost Treasure of the Inca Warrior)(prize)
Collar: Wimey Tribal Collar Gold [mesh]
Necklace: Papermoon *pm* Necklace of Da'at [mesh](350L)
Noseguard: Meva Anira Headband Gold [mesh](195L)
Earrings: Meva Round Plate Earring Silver [mesh]
Goatee: NO.MATCH NO.HARM. [mesh](group gift, 50L to join)(free)
Hair: NO.MATCH NO.SMOKE. (male avatar)[mesh](200L)
Outfit: BareRose El Indio Dorado C2 [mesh](190L)
Hands: Slink Avatar Enhancement Hands - Male [mesh](450L)
Head: TheMeshProject (BETA) Head(m) - Anime (Deluxe) [mesh](5000L)
Body: TheMeshProject (BETA) Deluxe Body [mesh](5000L)
Pose: Del May DM - Nothing to see here male (50L)

Tomb of Quetzalcoatl:

Statues, crypt, crystal, pedestals, bowls: Madpea Inca Collection, 25 li [mesh](2499L)
Door1: Madpeas Incan Gem Door [mesh](399L)
Door2: Madpeas Incan Lever Door [mesh](399L)
Door3: Madpeas Incan Crystal Door [mesh](399L)
Ground: {anc} ground panel {soil/red/w beads} 2Li [mesh](148L)

BONUS: Madpea's Friday Freebie: Magical Sweeping Broom
Just wear your Madpea group tag, buy for 1L (It will be refunded to you.) ONE DAY ONLY!

The Wicked Wizard of the West

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STORYLINE: Wesley was a drifter. He ran away from the orphanage when he was 17, and decided one day, "Hey, I want to go to college, yeah." It didn't matter he was not enrolled, he just sat down behind the prettiest girl in class and no one bothered to tell him to leave. Except Dorothy, of course. He poked her shoulder, pulled her hair, even shot spitballs at her but she always ignored him. When he found out her birthday was the next day, he got the idea to bring her flowers. Hey, girls love flowers, right? Well after picking a handful poppies, he fell asleep in the poppyfield and had the strangest dream. A tornado spoke to him. It called him The Great Antagonist of The Usurper. It offered him all its power, kingdom, and servants. "Sounds great, what's the catch?" he giggled in a poppy colored haze. "Water must never touch you." He laughed and accepted. The next morning he woke up strangely dressed with a powerful headache and a flying monkey asking, "Master. What is your heart's desire?" He couldn't help it. The very first thought that popped into his head was the birthday girl. Suddenly, he heard a scream above him. He looked up. It was Dorothy! She was falling from the sky! He dove and caught her just in time. Then Toto jumped out of her basket and bit him. "Hey! I saved you, stupid Mutt!" He glared at Toto and suddenly a muzzle materialized on little terrier. Both Wesley and Dorothy looked at each other and blinked.

My idea for this post was actually inspired a game and the witch theme items at the current round of the Fantasy Gacha Carnival. I had an idea to gender flip the Wicked Witch of the West, and then a few days later discovered Enchantment was doing the Wizard of Oz! So naturally I took it as a sign to go for it! So here is Wesley, the new mischief maker of Oz.

On him, Wesley the Wicked Wizard of the West:
Necklace: Gabriel Ringnecklace (TMP), gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Belt: Gabriel Cross body belt (TMP) Black, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Armband: Aisling.a. Circe Upperarm-L RARE, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Necklace: Aisling 1/ .a. Circe [Chakra Root/Red], gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Armor: Moon Sha Executor Claws - armor, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Armor: Moon Sha Executor - Left Claw - Black-Yellow, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Overskirt: Silvan Moon Designs Eternal Jewel Gown Overskirt, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Staff: Distorted Dreams WITD Grabbed Silver RARE, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Belt Book: Lewd Grimoire Gacha - book, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Pet: SWaGGa Flying Monkey Shoulder [mesh](Enchantment)(249L)
Hair: Ayashi Grell hair - blacks [mesh](250L)
Armband: Practical Villany Armbands [mesh](50L)
Skirt: glYph Acolyte Skirt Black Male [mesh](300L)
Bracer: The Forge Viking Bracer Black/Gold Rare, gacha [mesh](50L)
Eyepatch: Silvery K Magical Gacha eye patch Red 4, gacha [mesh](80L)
Eyes: S0NG Oxy Sunshine Eye, gacha [mesh](Kustom9)(50L)
Head applier: Tableau Vivant August - #TMP face applier - Tone 3(300L)
Skin applier Body: Tableau Vivant  #TMP body applier - tone 3 TMP (400L)
Head: TheMeshProject (BETA) Head(m) - Anime (Deluxe) [mesh](5000L)
Body: TheMeshProject (BETA) Deluxe Body [mesh](5000L)
Pose: Del May Swanky Male (50L)

Setting outside The Wicked Wizard's Home:
Plants: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] The Wizard Garden gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)

House: Trompe Loeil Rivershire Waterwheel [mesh](575L)
Tower: Alouette Princess's Tower [mesh](599L)
Flowers: Little Branch LB_Bouton d'or Lavender{Field} [mesh](Enchantment)(386L)
Tree: Little Branch LB_SeaAlmond{Seasons} [mesh](Enchantment)(386L)
Tree: Little Branch LB_MysticOak{4Seasons} [mesh](Enchantment)(386L)
Tree: Little Branch LB_OrangeTree.v2{4Seasons} [mesh](Enchantment)(386L)
Path: Elysium Pebblestone & wooden bench set, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Land: Jumbo Core Plat Rock Multilevel [mesh](95L)

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Setting inside The Wicked Wizard's Home:
Table: Bite and Claw Wiccan Altar Table, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Bottles: Bite and Claw Potion Bottles (2LI), gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Shelf: Bite and Claw Wiccan Crystal Shelf, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Alter: Bite and Claw Wiccan Altar Candle - Goddess, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Gemstone geode: Zyn Standing Geodes Gacha, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Hat: Soul Mystic Gatcha, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Shelf: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] The Wizards Small Bookshelf, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Chair: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] The Wizards Chair - RARE, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Wands: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] Wand Rack, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Crystal Ball: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] The Wizards Mirror Ball, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Book: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] The Wizards Magic Book, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Wand box: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] The Favorite Wand, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Cauldron: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] Table Cauldron, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Candle: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] Table Candle, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Pots: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] Pots, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Hourglass: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] Hourglass, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Shelf: Papermoon *pm* Green Witch Shelf [mesh](188L) Reopening sale
Herbs: Papermoon *pm* Green Witch Bundle [mesh](113L) Reopening sale

Valentines for Vladislav, 2

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STORYLINE: Vladislav used to be extremely powerful. He could hypnotize crowds of people. Great orgies. He could turn into all sorts of animals. He would kill anybody. Men, women. children. Burning... everything. But he suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of his arch nemesis, the Beast. And, he's never been the same. It all started with an unbreakable love spell. The Beast was talented in Voudou, ... a little too talented. Now the two of them are locked in an everlasting war that burned just as hot in love as hate. One moment their yelling would make the walls shake, the next those same walls were taking a pounding.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! If you are still looking for a gift for your sweetheart, be sure to not miss Objets D'Amour.  This series had 2 inspirations. The first was the Emprean Forge gacha, the Dollmaker's Fetish at Objects D'Amour. The necklace, bracelet, and ring are all beautifully made and I love being able to pick up some EQ on my limited budget.  The second is from Pucca Firecaster over at Fantasy Gacha is the fun PFC bones accessories, great for Voodoo girls or guys.  Over at Madpeas is a wonderfully witty Voodoo Valentine gacha. Seriously, I was shooting this picture when I got a notice about this gacha. Perfect timing! Each unfortunate Voodoo Doll in love meets his demise when you touch him. The one I used above is burning at the stake.  Also shown is the Johnny hair by Tableau Vivant. The Omega Countess appliers by Sn@tch from a past Fish For This hunt. The Genesis Labs Julia Head and skin makes switching to a girl avatar for this post a cinch. Love it.  The Valentine Voodoo pose with props is by NanTra.  And the wonderful Veve by Papermoon I love so much. It's Papa Legba but for Valentines you may want to pick the heart shaped Erzulie Veve instead. Also by Papermoon are the Saints & Spirits voltive Voudou candles gacha.

On Her, The Beast:
Bracelet: Empyrean Forge Dollmaker's Fetish Bracelet Pitch, gacha [mesh] (Objets D'Amour)(75L)
Necklace: Empyrean Forge Dollmaker's Fetish Necklace Golden RARE, gacha [mesh] (Objets D'Amour)(75L)
Ring: Empyrean Forge Dollmaker's Fetish Ring Golden, gacha [mesh] (Objets D'Amour)(75L)
Hair: Tableau Vivant Johnny [mesh](250L)
Chest: Pucca Firecaster PFC~Bones chest, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Choker: Pucca Firecaster PFC~Bones choker, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Staff: Pucca Firecaster PFC~Bones crown, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Lioncloth: Pucca Firecaster PFC~Bones loincloth, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Mask: Pucca Firecaster PFC~Bones mask, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Pauldron: Pucca Firecaster PFC~Bones pauldron, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Head, skin: Genesis Lab Genesis_Head_Julia_2.0_Sexy, gacha [mesh](99L)
Hand feet nail applier: Senzafine Moonglow Full Color - Vintage Reds (125L)
Body: Slink Physique Mesh Body V1.4 [mesh] (1250L)
Hands: Slink Avatar Enhancement Hands - Casual [mesh](450L)
Feet: Slink Female Feet (AvEnhance) - High [mesh](675L)
Hand feet nail applier: Senzafine Moonglow Full Color - Vintage Reds (125L)
Omega appplier: Sn@tch Countess (fish for this prize)(past, free)
Pose: NanTra Voodoo Valentine 5, gacha [mesh](50L)

Setting:
Voodoo doll: Madpeas Voodoo Valentine - Burning Passion (this weekend only)(74L)
Staff: Pucca Firecaster PFC~Bones - staff RARE, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Veve: Papermoon *pm* Papa Legba Veve [mesh](250L)
Candle: Papermoon *pm* Saints & Spirits  - Veve - Brigitte, gacha [mesh](50L)
Candle: Papermoon *pm* Saints & Spirits  - Veve - Ayizan, gacha [mesh](50L)

Have you guys done Madpea's Ghost Town yet? You can win this awesome bloody shirt by Deadwool as well as gifts from other stores with goodies for guys like Lapointe & Bastchild and Apple Fall.

On him, Vlad:
Shirt: Deadwool Hugo shirt - bloody (Ghost Town)(free)
Tattoo TMP applier: titzuki Blood mouth Tattoo (120L)
(Image Left, For the rest of the style credits, go to: Valentines for Vladislav 1)

Along Came a Spyder, 2

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STORYLINE: A blizzard raged in the City That Never Sleeps. Unseen to those struggling against the wind and snow drifts was a billowy shadow moving across the towers. His time was fast approaching. The penthouse over looking Central Park was a secret pleasure the ghost enjoyed returning to each year. It had been an easy task for him to create wealth, afterall foresight had it's perks. As he passed through glassy facade of his abode he was shocked to discover giant cobwebs covering everything. Below his dusty Christmas tree was a nest of giant spiders eggs guarded by a mutant spider. The distinct scent of a blood drinker hung in the air. He had not foreseen this! Who dares trespass on the Ghost of Christmas Future!

Don't hate me for sneaking in a Christmas theme post before Thanksgiving! lol  ...This image is inspired by the awesome Death Row Burton theme decor and the Nomad Gothic Diva gacha. I love the Burton Clocks, the hands spin wildly around on all the faces, both front and back. I put them with the Abstract Sculpture by Nomad, that has a very Ghost of Christmas Future vibe! On the pedestal, I used the new Wood Wreath by ASO on sale at the Creator's Collection Box. I tinted the holly very dark for a more gothic feel. The current round of CCB has a lot of cool Japanese New Year theme items and Christmas, as well as gifts.  The striped chair by Death Row comes in adult and pg versions, and has hud to change the texture patterns on the chair (black, white, striped, or checkered). The Death Row Burton table also comes with a texture change hud. On top of the table is the Death Row burton tea set. The Candelabra is from the Nomad Gothic Diva gacha. The gorgeous curtain hanging in the window is by Papermoon. It was a gift from the Nightmare event. The mainstore has other color and textures in the curtain for you to scoop up (I hope to see a gothic color theme set for the curtain set in the future!) The Christmas Tree is by Dysfunctionality. It can change color theme and it only 2li. It's also mod, so I tinted it for a more dusty look. Also tinted are the Botanical Spider Eggs under the tree. And the cute little Spid-eek is by Silent Sparrow. He's animated. All the cobwebs are from the Death Row Mystery Mansion gacha. The skybox is a beautiful new release by Haikei on sale at Kustom 9.

Ghost of Christmas Future penthouse:
Skybox: HAIKEI dusky white skybox [mesh](Kustom 9)(599L)
Candelabra: NOMAD Gothic Candelabra, Gothic Diva gacha [mesh](75L)
Curtains: Papermoon Straight Cupped Curtains: BloodStained [mesh](black unavailable)(250L)
Wreath: ASO Wood Wreath white light (edit tint)[mesh](Creator's Collection Box)(110L)
Chair: Death Row DRD burtonesque gothic chair [mesh](288 pg, 788L adult)
Table: Death Row DRD burtonesque table [mesh](88L)
Teaset: Death Row DRD burtonesque teaset [mesh](88L)
Christmas Tree: Dysfunctionality [DDD] Christmas Tree [mesh](195L)
Spider Eggs: Botanical Spider Egg Sac Cluster - Blue edit tint [mesh](125L)
Spider: Silent Sparrow Black Spid-eek! Spider - Animated  Skitter [mesh])199L
Spider web: Death Row DRD MM web 1, mystery mansion gacha [mesh](75L)
Spider web: Death Row DRD MM web 2, mystery mansion gacha [mesh](75L)
Spider web: Death Row DRD MM web 3, mystery mansion gacha [mesh](75L)
Clocks: Death Row DRD burtonesque clocks [mesh](88L)
Statue: NOMAD Abstract Sculpture, Gothic Diva gacha [mesh[(75L)

Birth of a Reaper, 3

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STORYLINE: No one knew exactly how Dr Oliver Conray escaped. It was no surprise they only half-heartedly searched for him, since they were glad his ominous presence was gone. The janitor on the nightshift however claimed to have seen the whole thing, but since she was elderly no one listened to her. She said a ghost lady in fancy clothes came to see the doctor. She could barely hear their conversation, picking up only bits and pieces. The lady was had been a former patient. She apologized for not telling him she was terminally ill. It was the real reason she rejected his marriage proposal. Without another word, she released the doctor from his bonds. Waiting for them outside was a ghostly carriage pulled by a team of spectral horses. A dark hooded driver helped her inside. For a moment the doctor stood there as if he was uncertain what to do, then he climbed in the carriage behind her. He hasn't been seen since.

So many awesome things going on this July, even two events to escape the sun's rays. lol. Genre's Underworld theme, and a Tattered Page's - Good Omens. I loved this book! It's so awesome. I highly recommend you pick it up. Shown above is the dress for prophetess Agnes by Senzafine. It's richly textured in browns and blacks and was perfect for my lady in the Reaper series. From the Underworld theme of this month's Genre, is the awesome Vampire Queen Statue by Entity. Don't walk, run go pick this up! I love it! Adding a spooky charm is the Spirit Flames by Papermoon. They come in several color, 1 li, and hover up and down. Another fun item I picked up is the Eclipse Noir long coat by Vengeful Threads. The hair I am wearing by Tableau Vivant is available at Hair Fair. TV is debuting new hair textures at the Fair, and I love the shine on them. It's so hard to find white hair that doesn't look flat, and the new TV textures definitely do whites well. The hat by Harm's Way can texture change on the hat band, feather, and card. The gacha goodies I used in image are the Luxurious Fur Coat by Curio Obscura, The Tinkerer's Glasses secret prize from Contraption's first music box gacha, the fur stole by Junbug, and the Victorian Gothic rose hat and Crystal cross jewelry set by Devious Minds. If you love DM's jewelry as much as I do, don't miss the badass necklace on sale there at Genre too, it drapes over the back. For both the Ghost Lady and the Doctor, I am using Ikon eyes, and the Fallen Gods Pure Ivory skins from Wayward Carnival. ...It might surprise you guys to know I am playing both characters in this picture. They both really show my aesthetic nicely. I love how this turned out. The Hades and Persephone myth (and it's many forms), is my kind of story.

On Him, Dr. Oliver Conray:
Hair: Tableau Vivant Ten hair male [mesh](Hair Fair - Blond)(250L)
Under coat: Vengeful Threads - Mens - Eclipse Noir [mesh] (Genre)(99L)
Coat: Curio Obscura Luxurious Fur Coat Black, gacha [mesh] (100L)
Glasses: ContraptioN The Tinkerer's Glasses, gacha [mesh](no longer available)
Hat: Harm's Way Top Hat texture change [mesh] (99L)
Eyes: IKON Deadshine Eyes - Quicksilver [mesh](150L)
Nail Polish: By Snow Fashionable Black applier for Slink hands (1L)
Hands: Slink Male Hands [mesh] (450L)
Skin, Slink, TMP Appliers: Fallen Gods Pure [xy] + Ivory (Wayward Carnival)(660L)
Head: TheMeshProject (BETA) Head(m) - Anime (Deluxe) [mesh](5000L)
Pose: Del May DM - Belonging (150L)

On Her, The Ghost Lady:
Dress: Senzafine Agnes Dress - Surprise Brown [mesh](A Tattered Page)(250L)
Necklace, earrings: deviousMind VictorianGothic Crystal Cross Necklace, gacha [mesh](75L)
Hat: deviousMind VictorianGothic RoseHat, gacha [mesh](75L)
Hair: Exile Full Of Grace, naturals [mesh](280L)
Stole: Junbug Fur Stole - Silver, gacha [mesh](30L)
Lip: WoW Skins Arisa LipGloss (99L)
Lashes: FTL Eyelashes - C01 Natural (280L)
Eyes: IKON Charm Eyes - Brown [mesh](150L)
Gloves: Adam n Eve Lace glove applier slink (150L)
Hands: Slink Avatar Enhancement Hands - Casual [mesh](450L)
Hairbase: Amacci Hairbase Tattoo 2 (free)
Skin, Slink: Fallen Gods Pure [xx] + Ivory (Wayward Carnival)(660L)

Setting:
Ghost Lights: Papermoon Spirit Flames,1li [mesh](Genre)(65L)
Statue: Entity Vampire Queen Statue, 6li [mesh](Genre)(100L)

Location: 
Genre - Underworld

What We Do In Cursed, 3

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STORYLINE: Lilandra was an eccentric artist. Unlike the other Darks, she slept in the night and worked during the day. Her paintings were highly prized among the Dark for the powerful emotional chords they struck with the viewer. Others tried to emulate her style but ultimately failed. It was a mystery. She said needed privacy to create her masterpieces. Most accepted this explanation, however there was more to it. 

Happy WORLD GOTH DAY everyone, and welcome Akira Voorheese to the blog. She was a great help. I told her I was looking for a Bride of Dracula, ancient, vampire, and elegant. And just like that, BOOM, she had it done. Awesome. ... This first image uses heavily the wonderful Vanitas gacha by Noctis that ran in the October Tag gacha. When you touch a painting, it will slowly become more painted. It will also send you a paint palette and paint brush. I love these. (5/23/15 UPDATE: Good news! This gacha has returned to the Noctis mainstore at New Babbage.)  I included a few more artists studio gacha items from the School Festival last month by Sorgo and vive atelier. I'm a sucker for art studio stuffs. Love it. ... Akira is wearing several nice gacha from the Fantasy Gacha: the deviousMind crown and necklace, and the Una Bronte dress. She's wearing two hairs by booN. She thought I was crazy to suggest wearing 2 at the same time, but it looks great. Thanks for your help, Akira!

Setting, Painting room:
Chair, pose: Noctis Vampirium2 Parlor chair wings, 3li [mesh](255L)
Rug: Noctis Semi antique Chinese rug (55L)
Pencils, cup: SORGO Water Cup gacha, 2li [mesh](75L)
Sketchbook: vive atelier 09 Artists Sketchbook gacha, 4li [mesh](50L)
Painting, palette, brush: Noctis Vanitas painting 5/Edwaert Collier: 1663 gacha, 3li [mesh]
Painting: Noctis Vanitas painting 2/E Collier, Natura Morta con Teschio gacha, 3li [mesh]
Painting: Noctis Vanitas painting 3/Ambrosius Bosschaert 1630 gacha, 3li [mesh]
Painting: Noctis Vanitas painting 1/Phillipe de Champaigne, 1646 gacha, 3li [mesh]
Stool: Noctis Vanitas artist's stool wood gacha, 2li [mesh]
Barrel: Noctis Vanitas artist's barrel w brushes gacha, 6li [mesh]
Crate: Noctis Vanitas artist's paints and pallette on crate gacha, 6li [mesh]

On her, Lilandra:
Guest appearance: Akira.Voorheese of The SL Chatterbox blog
Necklace: deviousMind VictorianGothic - Crystal Cross 2-row Necklace , gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Crown: deviousMind VictorianGothic - Crystal Cross Crown , gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)(75L)
Dress, belt: Una Bronte Drees and belt, gacha [mesh](Fantasy Gacha)
Hair 1: booN MMK375 hair black [mesh](280L)
Hair 2: booN POI481 hair black [mesh](280L)
Tattoo: SongBird Messy Eater - Rather Hungry (100L)
Makeup: cStar Limited Cat Liner - 009 - Hardcore Cat (no longer available)
Eyelashes: Mon Chéri *MC* "Falsies" Eyelash [mesh](299L)
Fangs: Cain Realistic Vampire fangs (50L)
Lips: MUDSKIN Candy Lips_Deadly Apple glossy_Dark
Skin: Plastik Immortalia Skin-Femme:// Avicus
Eyes: S0NG Sweety~ Vampire Eye (50L)
Body: Maitreya Mesh Body - Lara V3.3 [mesh](2750L)

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STORYLINE: The truth was Lilandra mixed blood into her paints. She collected "blood scent" from various places, animals, and people. You see, to a Dark a blood scent can evoke a mood. It's similar to how music, or color can effect a human.

Oh man you guys, this setting is beautiful! I am in Vampire Heaven! lol The gorgeous bed is by Death Row. It comes with a hud to change 2 of the drape colors, comforter, and pillows. Like all Death Row furniture, it includes lots of poses for male, female, couples, and adult. It will attach props to you too, just click accept when a menu pops up. ... From the Fantasy Gacha is the beautiful gothic gacha by Ravenghost. The Sarcophagus is interactive, the lid will slide open with a nice creepy sound and you can lay down inside. The candles have a cool melting wax texture animation effect. And the Gazebo is very lovely too. ... I hear it all the time, people are looking for nice statues in SL. Guess what? You can find these amazing statues by Papermoon and The Muses at the Fantasy Gacha too! The Rares for statue and candelabra come with a hud to change all the textures, 7 statue colors, 7 candle colors, the metals. (You can mod tint the drapery if you like too) The commons have a texture hud for the candles. The swinging chandelier is it stunning.  ... Ok now all your goth loving people, Raise your Goth Flag and let it fly proud! Happy World Goth Day! Head down to World Goth Fair, shop, listen, dance, and chat with all other lovers of the gothic culture. Below is today's DJ schedule at Club Gothika at World Goth Fair.  .... p.s.  There will several new releases for WGF today since today is World Goth Day. Go check it out! Have fun!

Setting, Castle Max:
For additional pictures bv Akira, go to: https://theslchatterbox.wordpress.com/2015/05/24/lilandra/
Bed: Death Row DRD drapery bed, 8li [mesh](pg 699L, adult 999L)
Candle: Ravenghost Requiem Low Pillar Stand, gacha 1li [mesh] (Fantasy Gacha)(69L)
Candle: Ravenghost Requiem Medium Pillar Stand, gacha 1li [mesh] (Fantasy Gacha)(69L)
Coffin: Ravenghost Sarcophagus 1.2 RARE, gacha 8li [mesh] (Fantasy Gacha)(69L)
Gazebo: Ravenghost Requiem Gothic Ruin RARE, gacha 16li [mesh] (Fantasy Gacha)(69L)
Statue: Papermoon / The muses Visage: Stone - Statue 05/RARE, gacha 3li [mesh] (Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Chandelier: Papermoon / The muses  Visage: Light - Swinging RARE, gacha 5li [mesh] (Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Statue: Papermoon / The muses  Visage: Stone - Statue 06/RARE, gacha 3li [mesh] (Fantasy Gacha)(50L)
Skybox: Dysfunctional Designs [DDD] Khan's Keep Base, 55li [mesh](495L)

The Big Ben Bats

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STORYLINE: It started out as a joke. He was drunk and the music at The Batcave was horrible that night. He complained loudly. Okay, maybe he shouted and threw a beer bottle. And well, long story short, the guitarist of No Talent called him a tosser, so he bit him live on stage infront of a stunned crowd of black-clad concert goers. In that moment as he looked out at the crowd in a fuzzy daze, the lights shining in his eyes, something clicked in his head. "This," he thought, "Right here. Right now." He didn't know how to play guitar, but with the blood of his defeated enemy coursing in his veins, he didn't let it stop him. He wailed on the blood splattered guitar as if the devil himself had just taken the stage. He became a legend of sorts in the London Underground. Part of his schtick was biting people live on stage. "Mess with the Bat, and you get the fang!" That's how the music career started of the guitarist of infamous Big Ben Bats.

Two great events going on right now. Leaf on the Wind is a fund raiser for the 29 year old Scarlet Chandrayaan (owner of Alouette). Her cancer has returned and she expected to have only 2 more years. At the top of her bucket list is a dream to see London. Designers on the grid have rallied and created Leaf on the Wind to help her dream come true. This is a wonderful event with a mission and has many fun London items for sale. The sim itself is decorated with an England theme. It runs until the end of January. More information here: leafonthewindsl.wordpress.com In the image above, I'm showing the gacha of the plates and shelf by Zanzibar creationZ, the ottoman by 22769 bauwerk, and the cool UK stomper boots by Forsaken.

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The Creators Collection Box is a brand new event featuring Japanese content creators. Don't miss this event, it's huge and the deals are sweet! There's something for everyone: girls, guys, decor and gadgets. Above is the fun guitar by Namine which plays like a real guitar! Touch notes on the hud, and you are playing live inworld! It has 2 playing styles, and a total of 66 notes. (I wasn't able to record the sounds it makes in the video, but you can demo the guitar at the event.) Also shown from CCB, is the table and chair by La petite fleur. The chair has 4 animations for the girls, and 4 for the guys. Touch the lamp to turn it on and off. The man holding the records is a gift at the La petite fleur mainstore. Shown below are two stools from the No Concept Creators Collection Box. They are part of a gacha for only 40L each!

I'm wearing an awesome new coat with shirt, vest, and tie by FATEwear. For the first time, FATEwear has included Fitted mesh along with the standard sizes. The fatpack comes with a hud to mix and match the different colors for the jacket, shirt, and tie. I added a slightly darker red tint to the tie, and darker grey to the void color jacket. I came close to using the KoKoLoReS Kazu hair for my yearbook picture but I'm glad I didn't now. It's perfect for an early goth Robert Smith type of style. The Goth Buttons are by papermoon. You can also buy Goth Patches and add to your coats and shirts for a touch of retro punk. The Cropped Sarrouel pants by Chronokit work perfect with the Forsaken boots. The plaid belt by :Sey I edited to make it thicker in a retro style. Because it's mod, it was no problem to tuck it within the coat, and overlaping the pants. The gloves are a gacha rare from last month's Men's Department. Yes, if you look close, that hand gesture is not a fist, it's something a bit more rude. lol

From the set, the EliBaily Recycled Planks Bed is from a past gacha at The Men's Department. The Cello Coffin Box is by Souzou Eien. I showed the cello in the past, but this time I am showing the awesome coffin box that comes with it! love it! The Big Ben prop is actually the box for the From Hell gacha by Never Totally Dead. And by favorite red rug by Senzafine is from a past World Goth Fair.

This is a collaboration project with Aarya Phantomhive of the Dark Phantom blog. She is always a joy to work with. Her idea to make a band and have an album was so much fun, and for a good cause too! To read her report, storyline, and stylecard for the Big Ben Bats, head over to the Dark Phantom blog.

On him, Guitarist for the Big Ben Bats:
Coat, shirt, tie: FATEwear Jordan Coat Long - Fatpack fitted mesh, hud [mesh](1000L)
Boots: -=FORSAKEN=- Union Riot boots (Leaf on the Wind)(200L) 75% donation
Gloves: APHORISM! Leather Gloves -Finger- black Rare, gacha [mesh](50L)
Pants, suspenders: Chronokit Cropped Sarrouel Pants White, Suspenders [mesh](350L)
Tongue: CheerNo Tongue_Silver_piercing [mesh](225L)
Buttons: Papermoon Oi! Britannia Buttons - Goth [mesh](150L)
Belt: :SEY Double-Hole Belt_B (Stars./.A) [mesh](250L)
Hair: KoKoLoReS Hair - Kazu male [mesh](250L)
Tattoo lip: LE:MON bloody lips (1L)
Eyes: S0NG Winter Vampire Eye [mesh] (50L)
Eyeliner: CL-NINE CL9v2l_HeadEyeline01C(bk)(free)
Skin: Tableau Vivant Nathan - Tone 03 blond (990L)
Guitar, pink: Namine guitar D-250 CCB Special Edition_r for male (Creators Collection Box)(250L)
Guitar, black: NS Like a Star [mesh](100L)
Pose: The Black Canary Miyavi Pose 7 (no longer available)

Setting:
Stool 1: No Concept wood high stool, gacha [mesh](Creators Collection Box)(40L)
Stool 2: No Concept iron low stool, gacha [mesh](Creators Collection Box)(40L)

Table, chair: La petite fleur Wooden table(black) and chair [mesh](Creators Collection Box)(150L)

Record shelf: La petite fleur  Recordshelf (gift)

Plate: .: Zanzibar creationZ :. Kitschy London Plate Shelving RARE, gacha [mesh](Leaf on the Wind)(50L) 50% donation

Plate: .: Zanzibar creationZ :. Kitschy London Plate - I Love London, gacha [mesh](Leaf on the Wind)(50L) 50% donation

Plate: .: Zanzibar creationZ :. Kitschy London Plate - London Calling, gacha [mesh](Leaf on the Wind)(50L) 50% donation

Plate: .: Zanzibar creationZ :. Kitschy London Plate - Look Right, gacha [mesh](Leaf on the Wind)(50L) 50% donation

Plate: .: Zanzibar creationZ :. Kitschy London Plate - Cor Blimey, gacha [mesh](Leaf on the Wind)(50L) 50% donation

Ottoman: 22769 ~ [bauwerk] cube poof Union Jack [mesh] (Leaf on the Wind)(150L) 75% donation

Bed: EliBaily Recycled Planks Bed ukUnion Jack, gacha [mesh](100L)

Cello, coffin box: Souzou Eien The Master's Cello Box (Full) Decorative [mesh](400L)

Big Ben: Never Totally Dead From Hell *London Map*, gacha [mesh](50L)

Rug: Senzafine "Evendim" Area Rug in Crimson (no longer available)