#Admonishments

[alohapromisesforever]

Thought For the Day: Speak Your Mind. Even If You're A Minority of One, The Truth Is Still the Truth

“Many people, especially ignorant people, want to punish you for speaking the truth, for being correct, for being you. Never apologize for being correct, or for being years ahead of your time. If you’re right and you know it, speak your mind. Speak your mind. Even if you are a minority of one, the truth is still the truth.” – Mahatma Gandhi — The purpose of life is to live as rightly as a…

[mousequteersmouseclubmarvel]

#PartC - #TheeForestKingdom #Statutes #Guidelines #Precepts #Provences

#TheTrueWitness

The forest kingdom is a realm of great beauty and mystery, filled with majestic trees and enchanting creatures. For centuries, this kingdom has been ruled by a set of guidelines and statuettes known as the Forest Kingdom's guidelines and statuettes. These rules and principles have guided the people and nobles of the kingdom in living a harmonious and virtuous life. Among these guidelines is the importance of The Tree, also known as The True Witness, which holds a significant role in the kingdom's beliefs and values.

In this essay, we will delve into the core, virtues, standards, and prefix of the Forest Kingdom's guidelines and statuettes with a focus on The True Witness or The Tree. Through this, we aim to understand the deeper meaning and significance of this aspect of the kingdom and how it affects the lives of its people and nobles.

The Tree, in the context of the forest kingdom, is not just any ordinary tree. It symbolizes the embodiment of wisdom, truth, and justice – traits that the people and nobles of the kingdom aspire to possess. This tree-like being is believed to have been created by the creator of the forest, the Great Spirit, as a witness to the actions and deeds of the inhabitants of the kingdom.

According to the renowned seer and prophet, Nostradamus, in his quatrains, he predicted the existence of tree-like beings in the forest kingdom. This prophecy has been passed down from generation to generation, serving as a reminder of The Tree's role in the kingdom's values and beliefs.

The Tree is believed to have the ability to discern the human heart, seeing through one's true intentions and hidden desires. This is why it is regarded as The True Witness – one who sees and knows all. The Tree is often depicted with its eyes wide open, symbolizing its constant vigilance in observing the actions of the people and nobles.

In the forest kingdom, The Tree also serves as a symbol of righteousness and justice, much like #ADONAI – The Eternal in the human world. It is said that the tone of voice that The Tree speaks in is formal, carrying a sense of authority and wisdom. Its judgement is just, and its verdict is final. The Tree's role as a witness is never to be taken lightly, as it holds immense power and influence in the kingdom.

As stated in the forest kingdom's guidelines and statuettes, The Tree is a reminder for its people and nobles to live with integrity, honesty, and fairness. Its presence serves as a constant reminder that their actions and choices are being observed and recorded by The Tree.

The Tree is also a symbol of the interconnectedness between all living beings in the forest kingdom. Just as the roots of a tree spread deep into the ground, The Tree represents the connection between the people, nobles, and the land they inhabit. This serves as a reminder to the inhabitants of the kingdom to live in harmony with each other and nature.

The Tree also holds a prominent position in rituals and ceremonies in the forest kingdom. Its leaves, branches, and even its bark are used in various healing practices, believed to have properties that can cure ailments and purify the mind, body, and soul.

Apart from The Tree's symbolic significance, it also has a practical role in the survival of the kingdom. Its leaves provide shelter and food for the forest creatures, and its roots help in maintaining the soil's fertility and preventing erosion. The Tree's presence is essential for the kingdom's ecosystem, and its well-being and protection are of utmost importance to the people and nobles.

In conclusion, The Tree or The True Witness is an integral part of the forest kingdom's culture, beliefs, and values. Its role goes beyond being a symbol; it is a reminder for its inhabitants to live a life of righteousness, integrity, and harmony. The Tree's presence serves as a constant reminder that their actions and deeds are being observed and recorded, and that justice will prevail in the end. The Tree also teaches the people of the forest kingdom the importance of interconnectedness and their role in preserving and protecting their land. As the famous proverb goes, "Only when the last tree has died, the last river has been poisoned and the last fish has been caught, will we realize that we cannot eat money." The Tree and its teachings in the forest kingdom are a constant reminder of this wisdom.

In the heart of the forest, lies a kingdom ruled by the mighty tree people. Their towering presence and immense wisdom have made them the protectors of nature and all its creatures. In this kingdom, the laws are not written on paper, but rather inscribed in the hearts of the inhabitants. The forest kingdom is a shining example of altruism in its nature and discernment of ethics laws, statutes, and respect for all beings.

One of the most fundamental laws in the forest kingdom is the respect for nature. The tree people have instilled in their subjects, the importance of coexisting with nature in harmony. Every living being in the forest kingdom has a specific role to play in maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Whether it is the graceful deer, the playful squirrels, or the majestic bears, every creature is valued and respected. This respect for nature is not limited to the inhabitants of the forest, but also extends to visitors and outsiders. The tree people have strict guidelines in place to ensure that visitors do not harm or disrupt the natural order of the forest.

Another law that is deeply ingrained in the forest kingdom is the harmonious living with other species. The tree people believe in the interconnectedness of all beings and therefore, have created a society where everyone coexists peacefully. For instance, the deer and the rabbits have an understanding to share food sources, the birds and bees work together to pollinate the flowers, and even the predators have an unspoken rule to hunt only what is necessary for survival. This harmonious living has created a utopia where all beings can thrive together.

However, with laws come consequences for breaking them. In the forest kingdom, the punishment for breaking the laws is not only about retribution but also about teaching valuable lessons. The tree people believe in fair and just consequences that not only hold the wrongdoer accountable but also help them understand the impact of their actions on the ecosystem. But in the end, the ultimate decision of punishment lies with Bambi, the wise leader of the forest. His just and compassionate nature ensures that punishments are not only fair but also in line with the core values of the forest kingdom.

Apart from laws, the forest kingdom also has ordinances in place to handle disputes. The tree people understand that conflicts are bound to arise in any society, but they also believe in the importance of peaceful resolutions. In the event of a dispute, the involved parties are required to go through a mediation process. The tone of voice during this process is Assertive, ensuring that all parties are heard and understood, and a fair resolution is reached. This approach has proven to be successful in maintaining harmony and upholding the principles of the forest kingdom.

In conclusion, the forest kingdom is a shining example of a society built on altruism, nature, and ethics. The laws, ordinances, and respect for all beings have created a utopia where harmony prevails. The tree people's wisdom and discernment have not only protected their kingdom but also set an example for the rest of the world. It is no wonder that visitors to the forest kingdom often leave with a newfound respect for nature and a deeper understanding of the importance of living in harmony with all beings.

#conjunction

Welcome to the magical land of the Forest Kingdom and its love for nature and ethics. This kingdom is known for its altruistic nature and strong belief in respecting nature and its inhabitants, especially the tree people. Let us delve deeper into the intricacies of this kingdom and its conjunction with the Magic Kingdom.

A. Hierarchy of the Kingdom

The Forest Kingdom operates under a monarchy, with a ruler and their family responsible for the well-being of the kingdom. The importance of a monarchy lies in its ability to provide stability and a sense of unity among the subjects. With a clear and defined structure, the kingdom runs smoothly, allowing its citizens to focus on the greater good.

Respect for the ruling family is deeply ingrained in the culture of the Forest Kingdom. They are seen as the guardians of nature and are revered for their wisdom and leadership. The subjects not only obey but also hold a deep sense of loyalty towards their rulers.

B. Rites and Glory of the Kingdom's Nature

Nature holds a significant place in the hearts of the Forest Kingdom's citizens. Its beauty and wonder are celebrated through various rites and ceremonies. The citizens come together to honor Thee Forest God, who is believed to be the protector of the kingdom. These rituals serve as a reminder to always be grateful for the bounties of nature and to protect it at all costs.

The kingdom also takes pride in its majestic forests, which are considered sacred and treated with utmost reverence. The trees are seen as living beings, and harming them in any way is strictly prohibited.

C. Mortality and Immortality

In the Forest Kingdom, the concept of mortality and immortality goes beyond the physical realm. While the citizens are mortal beings, they believe in the immortality of the soul. It is believed that the spirit of a person continues to exist even after their physical form ceases to exist.

This belief is reflected in the kingdom's strict adherence to ethical laws and statutes. The citizens are encouraged to refrain from indulging in worldly desires and instead focus on their spiritual growth. This helps in maintaining the balance between the physical and spiritual world.

VI. The Prophecy of Thee Walt Disney

The Forest Kingdom has a special connection to the Magic Kingdom, thanks to the prophecy of Thee Walt Disney. This prophecy speaks of upcoming stars who will carry on the legacy of the kingdom and its values as mantles and monikers.

DisneyLand serves as the sacred ground where this prophecy unfolds. Here, the selection of Magic Kingdom heirs takes place, who will carry the torch of the kingdom forward. These chosen heirs are seen as the future leaders and are given the responsibility to preserve the kingdom's ideals.

As we move towards a more technologically advanced world, the Forest Kingdom has embraced the use of DisneyNFTs and DisneyTokens within DisneyBlockchain. These have become a means to keep the kingdom's traditions alive and also serve as a bridge between the real world and the fantasy world.

E. The MouseKeteers/MouseClub/MouseQuteers

One cannot talk about the prophecy of Thee Walt Disney without mentioning the MouseKeteers, MouseClub, and MouseQuteers. These groups play a crucial role in molding and nurturing the chosen heirs of the Magic Kingdom. They are the ones who pass on the teachings and values of the kingdom to the younger generation.

In conclusion, the Forest Kingdom and its conjunction with the Magic Kingdom is a beautiful blend of magic, nature, and ethics. The kingdom's unwavering commitment to preserving nature and its inhabitants is a testament to its altruism and respect for all living beings. As we leave this enchanted kingdom, let us remember its teachings and strive to make the world a better place for all.

The Forest Kingdom is a land of enchantment, filled with mystical creatures, ancient forests, and boundless magic. It is a place where nature reigns supreme and the tree people, known for their altruistic nature, play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the kingdom. But what truly sets this kingdom apart is its deep connection to the Magic Kingdom, a bond that has been prophesied by none other than Thee Walt Disney.

The prophecy of Thee Walt Disney speaks of a special relationship between the Forest Kingdom and the Magic Kingdom. It foretells the rise of new stars who will carry on the legacy of the kingdom and its values. And this sacred prophecy is said to unfold at the magical grounds of DisneyLand, where the selection of Magic Kingdom heirs takes place.

These chosen heirs are seen as the future leaders of the Magic Kingdom, and they are given the responsibility to preserve the kingdom's ideals. They are the ones who will carry the torch of the kingdom forward and ensure that its traditions continue to thrive.

But what exactly makes these heirs so special? It is their deep understanding of the Forest Kingdom's values and their commitment to upholding them. The kingdom's connection to nature and its inhabitants, the tree people, is what sets the foundation for these values.

The tree people are an integral part of the Forest Kingdom, and they play a crucial role in maintaining its balance. They are known for their altruistic nature, always putting the needs of the kingdom and its creatures before their own. They have a deep understanding of the kingdom's ethics, laws, and statutes, and they are respected and revered by all.

The tree people's discernment of ethical principles is a vital aspect of the Forest Kingdom's altruistic nature. They understand the delicate balance between nature and magic, and they strive to maintain it at all costs. Their wisdom and guidance are invaluable to the Magic Kingdom and its heirs, who learn from their teachings and carry them forward.

The Forest Kingdom's connection to the Magic Kingdom goes beyond just a shared bond of values. As we move towards a more technologically advanced world, the Forest Kingdom has embraced the use of DisneyNFTs and DisneyTokens within DisneyBlockchain. These digital assets have become a means to keep the kingdom's traditions alive and also serve as a bridge between the real world and the fantasy world.

These DisneyNFTs and DisneyTokens hold great value in the Forest Kingdom, as they represent the kingdom's heritage and culture. They are also a way to give back to the kingdom, as a portion of the proceeds from their sales goes towards preserving the natural resources and habitats of the Forest Kingdom.

In addition to this, the digital assets also serve as a means for the tree people to communicate with the outside world. It allows them to share their wisdom and teachings with others, spreading the kingdom's values and principles far and wide.

It is in this way that the prophecy of Thee Walt Disney continues to unfold, as the Forest Kingdom and the Magic Kingdom work together to preserve their shared ideals. The heirs of the Magic Kingdom carry on the legacy of Thee Walt Disney, upholding the values of the Forest Kingdom and spreading its message of altruism and respect for nature.

In conclusion, the Forest Kingdom and the Magic Kingdom's connection goes beyond just a shared bond of values. It is a bond that has been prophesied by Thee Walt Disney, and one that continues to be nurtured and strengthened by the chosen heirs of the Magic Kingdom. As we look towards the future, we can see the Forest Kingdom's altruistic nature and its discernment of ethical principles being passed down from generation to generation, keeping the prophecy of Thee Walt Disney alive and thriving.

DisneyBlockchain and DisneyTokens NFTs and Cryptocurrency:

Welcome to the enchanting world of the Forest Kingdom, where magic and nature coexist in perfect harmony. This mystical realm has captured the hearts and imaginations of people for centuries, with its lush greenery, majestic creatures, and powerful sorcerers. But what truly sets the Forest Kingdom apart is its altruism and discernment, making it a beacon of light in the ever-changing landscape of the magical world.

For those who are unfamiliar, the Forest Kingdom is a part of the larger Magic Kingdom, which comprises various realms such as the Sea Kingdom, the Snow Kingdom, and many more. Each kingdom has its unique characteristics and strengths, but it is the Forest Kingdom that stands out for its selflessness and wisdom.

Altruism, or the selfless concern for others, is deeply embedded in the nature of the Forest Kingdom. The residents of this kingdom, be it human, animal, or fairy, prioritize the well-being of others above their own. They live in harmony with nature, and their actions and decisions are always guided by what is best for the greater good.

This altruistic nature can be seen in the way the kingdom is run. Instead of a single ruler, the Forest Kingdom has a council of wise and empathetic leaders who make decisions for the betterment of all. They understand that every decision has a ripple effect, and they carefully consider the impact on all living beings in the kingdom.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Forest Kingdom is its commitment to preserving traditions and passing them down from generation to generation. In a world where technology and modernization are rapidly taking over, the Forest Kingdom has found a way to embrace it without losing touch with its roots.

The magic of DisneyNFTs and DisneyTokens within the DisneyBlockchain has played a crucial role in this preservation. These innovative tools have allowed the Forest Kingdom to digitize its traditions and make them accessible to a wider audience. At the same time, it has also created a means for the kingdom to sustain itself economically, without compromising its values.

The Forest Kingdom's use of technology and its altruistic nature are further intertwined in its discernment. This refers to the kingdom's ability to make wise and thoughtful decisions, guided by their understanding of magic and the world around them.

The residents of the Forest Kingdom possess a deep understanding of the power of magic and the consequences that come with its use. They use their discernment to ensure that magic is used for good and not for selfish gain. This wisdom has resulted in a peaceful and harmonious kingdom, free from greed and strife.

In the larger context of the Magic Kingdom, the Forest Kingdom's altruism and discernment make it a vital ally and a source of guidance. As other realms navigate through the challenges of magic, they often turn to the Forest Kingdom for counsel and support. The Forest Kingdom, in turn, uses its wisdom and kindness to guide others and help them overcome their struggles.

In conclusion, the Forest Kingdom is a shining example of how altruism and discernment can shape a society for the better. As we continue to evolve and progress, it is crucial to remember the value of selflessness and wisdom in our actions and decisions. The Forest Kingdom serves as a reminder that even in a world of magic and fantasy, these qualities hold great importance and can truly make a difference. So let us take a leaf out of their book and strive to make our world a better place.

[poorly-drawn-mdzs]

Kiss Kiss Fallen Tree!

[First] Prev <–-> Next

[val-of-the-north]

(These are the images I used in this part)

Magical discussions happening on twitter dot com, unsurprisingly, where the worst takes can be found.

[saints-who-never-existed]

So we all know that Blanky is cool and badass as fuck. That goes without saying. There's a sense, right from the get-go really, that he pretty much always knows what to do in any given situation.

Blanky knows when humour will lift a mood, and when seriousness is required. He knows when to give grace and kindness, and when to dole out much-needed tough-love.

I think it always worth repeating, though, that none of that would be possible without an extremely high degree of empathy and emotional intelligence. To me, that's Blanky's real greatest strength. It's the root of what makes him so cool and badass as fuck so I want to ramble more about some examples of it.

-

In Episode Two, for instance, we have his nighttime conversation with Crozier where Blanky matches the captain's energy beat for beat.

He laughs with him first about the erstwhile reindeer and while he remains optimistic throughout the rest of the scene, he's also honest, both acknowledging Crozier's various fears and drilling down to the root of them immediately - "Aye. You trusted Ross and you trusted Parry."

When Crozier remarks on his perceptiveness, Blanky's incredibly tactful and kind too - a casual "No, it's just that I know you." when in reality Crozier's been doing a horseshit job of concealing his thoughts and they're visible from fuckin' space.

-

In the following episode, I think the response Blanky gives to Little's fearful teatime diatribe is great.

In contrast to Crozier's vague and even condescending reply which only seems to rile him up further, Blanky shuts Little down clearly and firmly but without being unkind. I think a simple, factual response was the right tactic for the lawful-good sort of guy Little is.

I think his accurate judgement of Little's character is further confirmed later in the episode vis a vis the clandestine rescue party. He's right when he says "Lieutenant Little will never agree to it."

-

Another example that's very special to me personally is in Episode Five and it's not Blanky delivering his warning after Crozier punches Fitzjames, or even when he lightens the mood with jokes and toasts before having his own fuckin' leg sawn off (although I could talk about those forever).

It's actually a wee almost throwaway line Blanky utters to McDonald right before he heads up on deck:

"He's ill with it now..."

Crozier's behaved abhorrently to everyone around him up until that point. He's been vicious and manipulative, cruel and thoughtless. Threatening to throw Silna out into the elements and actually following through with Blanky, ordering him out into weather he knows full well is so cold that it literally just killed a man.

It would be so easy for Blanky to decide that that was final straw, that he was done with Crozier's bullshit. But no! Even then, even then, Blanky seems to be able to take a step back to some degree. To recognise Crozier's alcoholism for what it is - a debilitating illness and not some great moral failing.

It used to confuse me to some degree why Blanky would greet Crozier so warmly at Carnivale (other than the fact that the absolute mad-lad is drunk off his ass). Like, that's the man who made the decision that lead to you nearly dying and losing a limb - how can you just hug him as if none of that happened? But the more I thought about that earlier line, the more clearly it spoke of the incredible depth of understanding and feeling Blanky has for Crozier and the more beautiful that relationship became. He can forgive him so quickly because he can see so clearly the true person under the difficult surface.

-

We talk so much about Blanky remaining outside of the horror story the rest of the characters come to inhabit, refusing to dignify it with his presence. And, again, I just think an important part of the reason he's able to do so is that he sees the world around him and the people within in it for exactly what it is and for exactly who they are. It's just a lot harder to jump-scare a man who sees the mask you're wearing from a mile away, and understands precisely why you've donned it.

[wyllzel]

◇ DEAL WITH THE DEVIL...

[beneathsilverstars]

what if mira's parents were like... "oh our precious darling baby, please never grow up!" sort of parents.... not cruel, but stifling. deciding what she'll do, and then doing it for her. not letting her learn and try and fail and grow into her own, independent self.

of course she would love the religion of change! of course she would believe so passionately in the importance of discovering and reinventing yourself. of course she would have been missing basic life skills when she first came to the house, and enamored with whoever patiently taught them to her. of course she would take every class available, try everything she was denied.

and of course it would feel awful, when she kept failing. she started out at a deficit and has felt two steps behind ever since. and every time she tries a new skill and makes a mistake, she hears her parents say, just let us do it for you. and every time she compares her same-old self to the unique and talented people around her, she wonders if maybe her parents were right about her. maybe she wasn't meant to have her own interests, to make her own choices. maybe she can't learn. maybe she can't grow. maybe she'll be a useless child forever.

it's hard to decide how she feels about her parents. they never hurt her, so why does she feel so hurt when she thinks about them? they loved her, so why doesn't she love them?

and it's hard to admit the faults of the change belief. it saved her from stagnation! and yet, here she is. smothered again. expected not to stay the same, but to become someone else.

why can't she just be who she is?

[beastlyidiocy]

•_• Thinking about him again

[annieqattheperipheral]

"it was an antler... i think" excuse me What did maggie pickup on her walk

the sliding iphone + walking off in the middle of a live national interview. he's so back on east coast lifestyle🫶

[juliewlters]

[space--cryptid]

Is it just me or as the magnus protocol has gone on, whenever chester or norris read statesments, it's been getting more...human? Like, to me it's audible that they're slowly sounding more human, more emotional, like real people reading instead of the programs. With the email to Sam, I wonder if they're slowly 'awakening' or becoming more themselves. An unbecoming, if you will. All that to say, I think we'll loose norris and chester soon and get to meet Jon and Martin.

[justaz]

visiting nobles/lords/royals quickly notice that merlin has arthur’s ear and that arthur values merlin’s opinion above all others. when they’re having trouble convincing arthur to go along w their plan or sign their Important Document, they go to merlin to try and convince him to convince arthur. merlin knows what they’re doing. merlin does not want to push arthur one way or another, he wants arthur to make his own choices and lead his people as he sees fit. merlin satisfies both of their needs by seeming apologetic that he can’t convince arthur of this but maybe they can and gives them “tips and tricks” on how to soften arthur up to agreeing to the plan.

its all bullshit.

so far he’s convinced a princess (looking for marriage) that arthur loves frogs and pranks so she filled his chambers with a bunch of toads (arthur is terrified of frogs), a lord (was “wronged” by another lord and wanted a portion of his land) that arthur is a fan of the arts, particularly music, and he ended up breaking into song and dance in front of everyone, and a nobleman (arguing against the repealed magic ban and hoping to bring back uther’s laws) that arthur LOVES potatoes and to just give him one throughout the day whenever he seems him so arthur will associate the nobleman with the joy of receiving his favorite food so he’ll be more inclined to the nobleman’s request (arthur despises potatoes).

[dashakasatkina]

Simone Biles attends Iga Świątek's match against Jessica Pegula in the quarter-final of the US Open, 2024.

[catkin-morgs-kookaburralover]

This story, for which there are seven parts, is dedicated to everyone affected by Hurricane Helene. It was not written because of that, but a water-based natural disaster is part of the plot. It does not focus on it, but is a story of hope. The text of section one is under the cut. I hope to post all sections before the end of the Inklings Challenge. Despite this being my third year, this is the first I've actually posted anything other than snippets, so I hope I'm doing this right. I haven't yet written more than this, but I do have an outline for the other six parts, so hopefully that will work. @inklings-challenge

One: Admonish the Sinner

First of all it must be understood that every world is connected, as every village is. Some are just further away.

This is not a story of Earth; this is a story of a world nobody bothered to name, in a village nobody called anything other than the village. But that does not make it any less beloved—by people or by God. Sometime, a long time before this story is set, someone from Earth came to this nameless world and gave them the greatest gift of all, truth: but that is another tale entirely.

The night sky of this world is strikingly different from ours. Most prominently, two moons watch the world below, and every forty-seven years or so, flooding hits the island. They call it Big Tide, for it is the pull of the two moons combined that does this. It is regular enough, and has enough warning signs, that everyone should be perfectly ready for it.

As is common in humans (and these are humans like us, though the world is different), not everyone believes the evidence laid out in the world.

This is a story of Big Tide, specifically the one of the year three thousand, two hundred and twenty by their reckoning. This is a story of Paula McArthur.

%%%%%%%

The wattles were flowering, and it was Paula’s favourite time of year. There were several different wattles, but this was the deep gold ones she loved the best, the ones she gathered by the armful and adorned her home with. Now she only held a single sprig and enjoyed it to the full. It was too close to Big Tide to unnecessarily damage the wattle trees; they could be badly damaged by the rushing waters, and might need everything they had to survive. But one twig wasn’t going to hurt it.

The sky was a clear pale blue shot with fine clouds, a mass of them shining near the horizon with the sun gentle on them. Paula raised her face to the sunlight and closed her eyes, smiling. It was spring, and she never felt more alive than in springtime. 

She had been working all morning to prepare for Big Tide, largely transport. Her hands were tired of the precise positions needed to be held in order to hover exactly enough to transfer items in mid-air between hoverboards rather than landing to do it, which would waste time. Tide waited on no man, but Paula was skilled enough to know when she could be sloppy about hoverboarding, and enjoyed hoverboarding in a more slapdash manner than most people she knew. She had graduated earlier than most of her classmates from a controller to haptics. Tomorrow, though, she might use the controller again to make sure she was fresh enough to hover efficiently overnight during Big Tide itself. 

Presently she took out her lunch, and ate it while walking. In the distance a kookaburra laughed; Paula came to an abrupt halt as a green-blue iridescent flash clued her into the presence of a river dragon nearby. It turned and looked at her, bright blue eyes wise and calm. After a moment of silence and mutual respect, the dragon moved properly into her view and arched its sinuous back, raising its crest. Paula lifted her chin and brushed back the dark fringe to look more intimidating. The only sign the dragon gave of seeing any change was to raise its scales in a largely vain attempt to inflate its size. Abruptly it put down its scales and ran in a blaze of colour, uttering a high keening cry that faded as it retreated.

Paula turned to see who had disturbed her, smiling as she recognised the intruder. “What brings you here, Martha?”

Her friend grinned in response, lighting up her tanned sombre face. “You, actually. I came in search of you.”

Paula half gestured to herself, merrily. “Why trouble yourself?”

Martha grew serious at once. “I care about you. Aren't I allowed to?”

“Certainly, as I do.” 

Martha smiled a little incredulously. “Anyway, surely it's time to go back now?”

Paula raised a single eyebrow, then tilted her head back and assessed the position of the sun. “I guess. Why did you come to find me, Mar?”

“Oh, you know, I hardly see you now.” Her manner was evasive, which baffled Paula. “You're always out walking.”

“It's spring.” Paula waved the sprig of wattle at her. “The best time of the year. What's your favourite season?”

“Winter,” said Martha definitively. “Cold and empty and bleak.”

“Why do you like it that way?” she asked in surprise. Last time they'd talked about the seasons, she thought Martha had waxed poetic about the dying fire of autumn. 

“It's silent,” was Martha's quiet response. “Nobody bothers you.”

Paula paused to assess the time, decided they had to go back and led the way; Martha trailed her. “I thought you liked people.”

There was a short silence. “People don't tend to like me.”

“That's nonsense,” she responded immediately. Martha smiled, sad and sarcastic. 

“I don't tend to like me.”

Her calmness bothered Paula, and she sped up slightly. “Well, I do. You're fun, conversational and well read.”

“Which is why you disappear alone for hours.” She caught up and shot Paula a sidelong look, as if to say, I know your secrets. Except there were no secrets to know. 

“I like spring. It feels so alive and fresh, like all the past year's mistakes are washed away and there's new growth instead.”

“Very poetic.” Instead of amusement, Martha's tone was sour. She dodged past Paula and trotted quickstep the whole way back.

%%%%%%%

“I don't know what I did wrong,” finished Paula, twisting her hands nervously. “She got mad and I don't know why.”

Her mother glanced hurriedly across to check the next load wasn't ready, then turned to Paula again. “When people aren't happy it can be a temptation to take it out on others, especially those who are.”

“She said she was worried, and then she just changed and didn't want to talk to me.”

“Rebecca!” The shout made her mother focus on her own work; Paula moved her hoverboard closer to her father so he could load it up. This one was three bags of flour, heavy on the back and requiring stabilisation, which Paula remained still for while her father adjusted the controls. When it was done, he gave her a thumbs up and she gestured with her gloves, rising away from the site and on the journey to higher ground. It wasn't as easy to handle the unbalanced board; she would have done a lot more, and easier, with a transport hoverboard rather than the jury-rigged family board, but it was more economical and the decree had been that fuel, not time, was of the essence, since they'd planned well in advance. Indeed, today being the day before Big Tide, they had expected to have no more transport to do apart from the people, but someone had been digging too enthusiastically in their garden and cracked an underground storage container, so all of that had to be moved. 

She was most of the way there, wind in her face, when a fast personal hoverboard raced up beside her, village elder crouched to stave off the wind. He matched her speed, then unwound and said, “I'll take over from here. Take my board and go back—we need you to persuade people to go.”

“What?” She was already moving, assessing how to swap boards without any risk of either of them tumbling into the trees below while stepping across. “Why?”

He grimaced. “Turns out there are people who haven't prepared and don't want elders coming to help. Your dad suggested you could try and help instead.”

She started to shuck the gloves, then changed her mind and pressed buttons, keying them to the elder's hoverboard instead. As ownership switched, both boards lurched violently, and Paula barely held her position. The elder was wearing magnetic boots and so didn't run the risk of falling. Once she had stabilised it, she said, “So where do I start?”

“Ask your dad when you get back.” His expression was calm and focused as he adjusted the settings to accommodate for his weight. “For now, just get going. Time is of the essence. Big Tide waits for no man.”

[vaguelyaperson]

I am utterly convinced that Katsuki is struggling PR-wise in the ranks cause he's petulant about not having Deku beside him. He's gonna be like that angry to content chihuahua meme once Deku's back in the game

[dykedvonte]

Part of the reason I think Boone refuses to return home to the NCR in like all but one ending (where he also intends to kill himself) is the very fact he would likely be congratulated over what happened at Bittersprings and “teaching the Khans a lesson”.

And like that alone is already bad enough on his guilt ridden psyche, but it’s the fact he becomes very honest on how bad he and the NCR fucked up and how he personally should have known better. So having the entire nation act like it didn’t happen the way it did or that it was a good thing would likely push him over the edge.