#Barbecue Heat Tent

[youvebeenlivingfictional]

44 turning into 45 with Will Miller for the kisses prompt. I just love him… need him.

*I'm not currently taking any more prompts from this list

Prompts: Tentative kisses given in the dark; Kisses exchanged as they move around, hitting the edges of tables or nearly tripping over things on the floor before making it to the sofa, or bed.

Warnings: Smooches

The summer evening heat was hell, and the blackout interrupting the barbecue hadn't brought the mood down the way you'd expected. Of course, hanging out with a group of ex-Delta Force members meant that they were much better prepared than a lot of your friends would be. Before you knew it, there was a fire going in the fire pit. Most of the lights in Will's house were off to preserve energy while they could—considering they were all armed to the hilt with flashlights.

"I'm gonna go grab another beer. Anyone want?" You offered, standing. The chorus that answered made you cackle. "I'll just bring out a couple of six-packs. Should I grab a cooler to keep them in?"

"No point, they'll be gone before they need to be cooled," Ben laughed. You nodded, standing and heading over to the patio door.

"Hang on!"

You turned at the call, smiling as Will jogged after you, flashlight in hand.

"Right," You chuckled. "Thanks. Forgot."

"Sure."

Your fingers seemed to tingle as they brushed against his. You avoided his gaze, dipping your head as you hurried inside. You slid the door shut behind you, hearing woos and teasing coos from the guys, chased by Will's grumble of shut up.

It had been a long-running joke that you and Will looked after one another like an old married couple. And sure, you cared about him, just like you cared about the rest of the guys, but Will was a little different.

You just seemed to get one another. You could spend hours with him in comfortable silence, trade glances in crowded rooms that contained entire conversations. Things with Will just felt right and easy...Until of course you tried to make things romantic. The two of you seemed able to bridge all other gaps, but this one seemed just a touch too wide. You opened Will's fridge, frowning when you didn't see any beer. Maybe you'd gone through all of that you had up there...Better check the basement.

--

Will's basement was as neat as the rest of the house, so it wasn't difficult to navigate, even relying on the beam of the flashlight. You looked around, eyeing the wide, plush couch that was the group's go-to for movie night. You looked at the bookshelf next, smiling at the photos of Will and Ben in their uniforms, standing beside their parents. You reached out, gently thumbing over the photo before you turned around.

Now where was the mini-fridge again—

"Shit," You groaned as the flashlight flickered, then died. You whacked the back of it a couple of times, but to no avail. Damnit, where was the light switch? Then again, maybe you could feel around for the mini fridge and just grab the beer. You set the flashlight down on the bookshelf before you reached out, taking slow, careful steps.

Your heart leapt into your throat as you heard the thud of footsteps coming down the basement stairs.

"You okay down here?"

"There wasn't any more beer upstairs. Did you bring your flashlight? Mine died."

"So that's what's taking you so long."

"What did you think it was?"

"...I wasn't sure if you heard what the guys were saying."

Your stomach twisted as you continued to feel along the wall. "It was nothing that they haven't said before, right?"

"...Right."

"Right, so—I mean I didn't really hear-it hear-it, but I've heard it—Oh!" You went still as you bumped into something—well. Someone. Will's hands steadied on your hips as your hands found his chest. You swallowed thickly, face heating. It was a boon that he couldn't get a good look at you.

"I um...I'm guessing you didn't bring a flashlight," You mumbled.

"I don't need one. I know where everything is."

"Right." Your fingers flexed in the fabric of his shirt, your skin prickling with the heat and unmoving air of the basement. "So you...Know where the fridge is."

"Yeah...Does it bother you?"

"Why would I be bothered by you knowing where your fridge is?"

"No, smartass," Will chuckled. "I mean what the guys say. Does it bother you?"

"It's just talk. I've heard worse from all of 'em." You blink into the darkness. "Besides, what they say isn't so bad."

"No?"

"Nn-nn."

Will's hands slid along your hips, drawing you a little closer.

"Can't say I mind it myself."

"You don't?"

"No."

You felt the brush of Will's breath against your mouth, his nose nuzzling against yours. You tipped your chin up just a little, lips skimming against his. You raised a hand to cup his cheek, as his arms curled around you, drawing you more firmly against him.

You hummed softly as he began to steer you back in slow steps, trading slow, syrupy kisses. You grunted as you felt the sharp edge of the coffee table against your calf.

"Sorry," Will muttered.

"S'okay," You breathed, waving backward blindly until you felt the back of the couch. You turned Will, nudging him down. You heard him huff as he landed on it before his fingers skimmed over your sides, pulling you down with him.

At any other time, in any other circumstance, you'd gripe at how crushingly hot it was without being so close, but right now it felt like the two of you couldn't get close enough. Will's hands slid covetously over your body, dipping just under the hem and teasing your sweat-dampened skin. You fisted your hands in his hair, swiping your tongue across his parted lips.

The click and whir of the house coming on again jolts the two of you as the power comes back on. You both went still, the kiss breaking nervously. You could hear the guys cheering as the fairy lights come back on in the yard. You bit your lip, a wave of self-consciousness rising as you felt the full weight of Will's gaze on you. When you met his eye, you melted a little. You dipped your head toward his again, catching his plush lower lip between his teeth and giving it a little tug before letting it go.

"The guys'll come looking soon," You mumbled.

"Probably."

"Give me ten seconds to put the six packs at the top of the stairs and shut the door."

[seresinsbabe]

Happy anniversary! Can I get Hangman for List 4 with number 44, “I saw you naked once.  And now I can’t stop thinking about it" please!

Thank you!! This started out as a blurb and it well...it's definitely not a blurb anymore.

Pairing: Jake "Hangman" Seresin x fem!reader

Warnings: 18+! MDNI! Awkward encounters, awkward Jake, mentions of alcohol, mentions of masturbation, smut, p in v, unprotected sex (be smart with your parts please!)

Ash's 1K Follower Celebration

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It had been a complete accident. Jake had been distracted by something stupid Rooster had said and instead of opening the bathroom door he opened your bedroom door.

There your naked form stood still glistening with water from the shower you'd just taken. A glob of white lotion in your hand that hovered just over your chest where you'd been getting ready to apply it. Droplets of water fell from your hair, running down until they'd hit your nipples. All peaked and perky from the air conditioning that kept the home at a comfortable temperature in the San Diego summer.

He'd stared way too long. Drinking in every inch of you before he realized what he was doing. His face heating up in embarrassment as he slammed the door shut and yelled and apology.

That was a month ago and he'd been unable to wipe you from his mind since.

Not that he wanted to.

But it would a little less painfully pitiful if he could.

The images of you writhing underneath him, screaming out his name, taking his cock as deep as you could. They kept him awake at night. He'd jerked off more in the past month than he had since he hit puberty.

For the first couple of weeks after it had happened he couldn't look at you. Now he could, until you looked at him and then he was immediately jerking his gaze away from you.

It actually hurt you. The way he was doing everything in his power to avoid looking at you.

Since it happened you'd been wracking your brain as to why Jake was being this way. At first you chalked it up to embarrassment. And that made sense. He'd walked in on Phoenix's roommate. Of course he'd be embarrassed, but you figured that the embarrassment would blow over. It was fucking Jake Seresin. You were surprised he was embarrassed in the first place. Now that the avoidance continued you started to wonder if it was because of how you looked when naked. Maybe he'd found you so abhorrent that he couldn't bear to look at you.

Whatever the reason you were bound and determined to find out. Tonight was the night.

When Nix had come home earlier that week, letting you know that Rooster had invited the both of you over for a barbecue and bonfire, you started hatching a plan.

It wasn't a complex plan by any means. The only steps to it included cornering Jake when he was alone and asking him straight up why he wouldn't look at you.

Your chance came when he got up, mentioning something about need to hit the head. You waited a minute after his departure and got up yourself. Stating you were going to mix up another drink in the kitchen. No one questioning the fact that you had a full drink in your hand.

The house was empty and just as you breached the door you heard the toilet flush. A bit of the whiskey and coke spilled on the counter as you set it down in a rush to catch Jake in the hallway.

He'd thought he'd done good all night. Avoiding looking at you and preventing a tent from forming in his jeans. If he looked at you his mind would wander. The memory of the smell of the pomegranate and vanilla lotion would invade his senses and he couldn't do that in front of everyone. They'd give him so much shit.

"Why the fuck won't you look at me?" Jake jumped a bit when he opened the door. The last thing he'd been expecting was you standing there, hands on your hips and foot tapping expectantly.

"Wha-I- what are you talkin' about?" He felt his throat constrict. He couldn't not look at you and he was trying to everything in his head to keep from thinking about you naked and covered in water.

A huff of air flared your nostrils and your arms moved from your hips to cross over your chest. Jake had to look away again for a second as the movement pushed your tits up, exposing them more than the flimsy sundress already was.

"Since you saw me naked! Am I that repulsive that you can't even look at me now?!"

Huh? His eyes snapped to yours. You thought that he thought you were repulsive?

A soft grin pulled at his mouth as he searched your eyes. "That's what you think?" Jake asked, taking steps towards you. "That I saw you naked and can't look at you because you're ugly?"

"Well yeah. Why else?" You pushed back, jutting your chin up as you met his eyes.

Jake let out a sarcastic chuckle, stepping towards you again until your back hit the wall. His arms came up, caging you in on either side. Your eyes flickered between the limbs, noting the way they flexed and how it made his veins more prominent.

"Sweets, I saw you naked once," he started, leering down at you with a look you couldn't quite place, "and now I can't stop thinking about it." Jake's mouth hovered just over yours. "I can't look at you because if I do all the things I want to do to you flood my brain." His voice was low and husky.

You swallowed hard, feeling a coil start to build in your belly. Jake Seresin wanted to fuck you. Jake Seresin couldn't look at you because he wanted to fuck you so badly. You.

"Then let your brain win."

You weren't sure where the sudden boldness came from. Maybe it was the coil in your belly tightening or with the intoxicating smell of his cologne. Sandalwood and cognac. Whatever it was you knew you wanted him and you knew you wanted him to act on what he wanted.

His eyes searched yours, the green orbs darkened with lust. When he found whatever it was he was looking for he captured your lips in a heated kiss.

Your arms wrapped around his neck and he lifted you up by your thighs, wrapping your legs around his waist. With one hand and the wall he kept you up while his other hand blindly searched for a doorknob. He didn't care what room he fucked you in, he just knew he couldn't fuck you in Rooster's hallway.

It didn't take him long to find a doorknob and before you knew it you were naked and underneath him on a mattress. Whether it was Rooster's or a guests you didn't care.

"Oh fuck!" The expletive flew out of your mouth as your back arched. Jake had buried himself inside of you, stretching your walls deliciously.

It took him a few seconds to start thrusting. So many you almost started begging him to move. Each thrust had your walls molding around his cock, clenching and unclenching in a way that had him almost seeing stars.

"So-fuck-" he faltered in his words when he hit that spot in your cunt that had you squeezing him like a vice. "Gon'be the death f'me." He mumbled, his head falling into the crook of your neck.

The mewls falling from your mouth grew louder, nearing screams the closer he brought you to the edge. Neither of you thinking about the group of people outside.

"What's taking them so lo-" Coyote's question was cut short when they heard the sound of your scream. They all knew what it meant.

"Fucking finally!" Phoenix mumbled, tossing back the rest of her drink and then throwing the beer can in the fire.

"Ah shit...I think they're in my room." Rooster groaned and slumped further in his chair. "I just washed the sheets too!"

[novlr]

What are some ways to describe summer ?

Summer is not just a season; it’s a vibrant setting that can add life and color to your writing. Whether you’re crafting a sun-soaked romance or a beach thriller, the way you describe summer can immerse readers in your story. Let’s dive into how you can capture the essence of summer, focusing on the various senses and elements that make this season unique.

Sights

Sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple.

Children chasing ice cream trucks down suburban lanes.

Sunbathers dotting the coastline.

Sprinklers casting rainbows across freshly mowed lawns.

Flower gardens in full bloom, a riot of colours.

Sunglasses showing reflections of the bright world.

Sun hats and flip-flops scattered around pool decks.

Fireflies illuminating the night.

Street markets bustling with locals buying fresh produce.

Hikers on forest trails.

Sounds

The cacophony of cicadas in the late afternoon.

Waves crashing against the shore in a constant rhythm.

The sizzle and pop of barbecues in backyards.

Children’s laughter as they play outside.

Ice clinking in glasses of lemonade or cocktails.

The distant whirr of lawn mowers.

Splashes and shouts from swimming pools.

Chirping songbirds greeting the morning.

The crackle of bonfires during cool summer nights.

The melodic chimes of ice cream trucks roaming the streets.

Smells

The salty tang of sea air at the beach.

The overpowering scent of chlorinated pools.

Freshly cut grass after morning lawn care.

The scent of sunscreen and tanning oils on warm skin.

The smoky aroma of grills at a neighborhood cookout or family barbeque.

Fragrant blossoms like jasmine and roses in full bloom.

The earthy smell of rain on hot pavement.

The mix of fruits, vegetables, fried food, and flowers at an open-air market.

Melting tar with an accompanying heat shimmer on hot roads.

Campfire smoke clinging to clothes and hair during outdoor adventures.

Activities

Beach volleyball games, sand flying as players dive for the ball.

Leisurely picnics in the shade of ancient trees.

Hiking trips taking advantage of the long daylight hours.

Sailing and boating, the wind filling sails on sunlit waters.

Outdoor concerts, where music floats on the warm night air.

Road trips with car windows down, hair whipping in the wind.

Fruit picking in orchards and berry farms.

Camping under the stars, a tent and a sleeping bag for a home.

Water fights with hoses, water guns, and balloons.

Attending summer festivals full of food, music, and dance.

Character body language

Wiping sweat from the brow or fanning themselves to cool down.

Squinting against the harsh sunlight or seeking out spots of shade.

Sipping cold drinks, or gulping down water.

Lounging lazily, limbs relaxed and sprawled out.

Applying sunscreen meticulously.

Adjusting sunglasses or hats for better protection.

Dipping toes tentatively into the sea or a pool.

Tugging at clothes sticking to sweat-dampened skin.

Laughing with carefree abandon, a reflection of summer’s ease.

Turning pages of a paperback with fingers damp from pool water.

Positive descriptions

The liberating feeling of diving into cool water on a scorching day.

The tranquil peace of a sunrise beach yoga session.

The simple pleasure of ice cream melting on the tongue.

The bliss of a hammock nap swayed by a gentle breeze.

The joy of endless blue skies promising adventure.

The warmth of sun-kissed skin after a day outdoors.

The satisfaction of a well-tended garden coming to life.

The contentment of sharing a sunset with loved ones.

The thrill of catching the perfect wave while surfing.

The comfort of balmy evenings spent on porch swings.

Negative descriptions

The oppressive heat making the air feel thick and suffocating.

The relentless buzzing of mosquitoes on a muggy night.

The sting of sunburn after a day of neglecting sunscreen.

The frustration of packed tourist spots and overcrowded beaches.

The exhaustion induced by long days and sweltering heat.

The discomfort of air thick with humidity.

The annoyance of sand finding its way into every nook and cranny.

The disappointment of a rained-out picnic or canceled event.

The lethargy of a heatwave, energy sapped by the relentless sun.

The discomfort of trying to sleep in an overheated, uncooled room.

Helpful Adjectives

Scorching

Balmy

Sultry

Languid

Radiant

Dazzling

Parched

Breezy

Rippling

Sweltering

Sunny

Lush

Blistering

Tropical

Vibrant

Humid

Verdant

Golden

Glowing

Fragrant

Torrid

Tranquil

Crisp

Sizzling

Flaming

Steamy

Refreshing

Shimmering

Lazy

Stifling

Invigorating

Sparkling

Zesty

Fervent

Stuffy

Arid

Saturated

Juicy

Sunbaked

Fetid

[m-ayo-o]

camping

18+ // fluff then a lil smut // Isshin Kurosaki :3 wc 600 selfshiptember; 26 [Ichigo’s grown up + not living at home]

You’ve had a gorgeous afternoon in the sun with your boyfriend and his two girls, setting up camp, playing football, and cooking barbecue food together.

Of course, Isshin’s been running around all day after his precious baby girls, who, realistically, are growing up now. You’ve enjoyed seeing them change and mature over the past few years, and they’ve both been so friendly and welcoming to you from the get-go.

Entering a relationship with Isshin was so uncomplicated– he was open and honest with you from the start. You’ve never been with anyone with kids, but you didn’t realise his would be so… cool.

You catch up with Ichigo whenever he visits, and his younger two look up to you and ask for your advice, wanting you to help with their school work and Yuzu just loves that she can rely on you to help around the house. Karin’s just happy she’s got someone relatable to talk with– she’s starting to really open up to you.

Now, after a fun-filled day on your first ever family holiday– as Isshin has been calling it– you welcome in the cooler evening with a campfire and snacks. The girls take their fill of gooey marshmallows and head to their tent after a late night sugar rush, leaving you sitting on Isshin’s lap under the stars.

“You were great with the girls today,” he ponders, looking unusually thoughtful, “thank you.”

He kisses your lips. He feels hot to the touch.

“Mm,” you hum and smile, returning his kiss with a peck on the corner of his mouth.

You know Isshin was anxious about dating at first, but he welcomed you so warmly into his loving family, and now you couldn’t imagine life without them.

“You’re so good for them,” he draws you in closer, making heat rise on your cheeks when he pulls you to straddle his lap, “and they love you– you know that?”

“Mm, it’s easy for them to love– that’s thanks to you.” It’s your turn to make him blush now, “Their daddy takes such good care of them.”

He returns a breathy laugh, kissing you again.

“You ok?” you whisper over his lips, noticing a certain look behind his dark eyes.

“Just let me kiss you some more,” he utters, sealing your lips and peppering your neck, making you giggle and squirm.

But he grabs your wrists, stilling your movements, shrouding you both in a sudden tension.

His lips remain closed over your neck, holding you and starting to suck gently. Your hips move on their own, dragging over his lap as his kisses trail lower and lower, until he reaches the hem of your sundress.

It’s getting hot, your bodies reacting to each other beautifully, until you hear a sudden zipping noise. 

“Ugh, dad…” you hear Karin mutter and trudge off to the bathrooms.

You both just giggle as he picks you up and takes you to your tent, placing you ceremoniously on the air bed as if it’s some five star hotel.

It’s stuffy and hot, and no place to have sex the way you two like it, so he settles for more kissing, only this time he’s able to continue and pull off your clothes, eagerly burying his face between your legs.

He works you open with his hot tongue, enjoying your taste as you hum and moan as quietly as possible, accepting every loving lick and stroke until you’re too sensitive to continue, pushing him away gently.

He huffs and kisses your thighs, still needy for more as he collapses next to you.

But you’re sure to wake up nice and early to repay him, taking care of his morning wood as the sun is rising.

selfshiptember 26!!

likes, comments + reblogs appreciated! <3

[2baddiesfanfics]

The Great Outdoors

Pairing: Nobara x Maki

Tags: Camping, Tent Sex, Oral Sex, Cunnilingus, Anal Fingering, Vaginal Fingering

Summary:

Sukuna's been defeated, and it's time to celebrate with a group camping trip. With their futures ahead of them, the Tokyo Jujutsu High gang decides to take a break from fighting and enjoy the great outdoors. But with Maki's competitive side, Nobara is in for more than just roasting marshmallows and sitting by the campfire.

*Note: All characters in this fic are 18+*

Read on Ao3

“Yuji! Megumi! Go gather what we need for the bonfire,” Nobara yelled from inside one of the two massive tents her, Maki, Panda, and Inumaki had set up.

Gojo had told them he’d take them wherever they wanted after they had all graduated, and both groups of students had asked for a camping trip to watch the Sakura trees bloom.

With Sukuna finally defeated and no longer in the picture, the alumni of Tokyo Jujutsu High were free to live their lives as they pleased. Sure, there was the occasional fight, but after giving the king of curses one final ass-whooping, everything else was small fry.

Of course, now that they had all survived, they could dream of the future. Having gone through such a traumatic experience together, bonds that had already started to bloom in their days as students had finally become full-fledged relationships. Yuji and Megumi had stopped pretending they were only “bros,” and Maki and Nobara had admitted what they shared was something much deeper than friendship.

Once the boys returned with the kindling needed for the fire, Inumaki got started on the grill. For someone who only spoke in onigiri ingredients, it was no shocker the guy could cook. Nobara had recruited Yuji as her Instagram photographer while Megumi, Gojo, and Maki had started to play a game of horseshoes.

Nobara chuckled to herself as she knew Maki wouldn’t give up until she had beaten both men.

“You get ‘em, babe,” she called out over her shoulder while trying to fit her and her best friend in a shot with beautiful pink flowers.

“So…how are things going with you and Maki-senpai?” Yuji asked while throwing up a peace sign.

“Ugh, do something cuter, please,” she chastised before grabbing his hand and moving it out of the frame. “So far, so good! We’ve been looking at apartments in Tokyo. Thankfully Zenins have money because my paycheck wouldn’t pay for half of some of these places. How about you and Megumi? Smooth sailing so far?”

Yuji blushed, which was an unusual sight for Nobara. She knew he liked Megumi, but this was a sign of more than a simple crush. “Yeah, now that I don’t have a thousand-year-old cursed spirit living inside me it certainly makes things easier!”

“So…have you guys…ya know…” she said as she gave him a playful nudge.

“Kugisaki! That’s…private. But for your information…yes. And it was better than I imagined it would be,” he replied under his breath. He gave her a sideways glance. “And…you two? I mean…I have to imagine Maki-senpai is pretty, uh, athletic, if you get my drift.”

Now it was Nobara who turned bright red. “Yuji! It’s rude to ask a lady about her sex life!”

Her classmate looked back at her incredulously. “Dude! What, so you can ask me but I can’t ask you!? That’s messed up!”

“Hmm. You have a point. Let’s just say…it’s definitely a workout. She’s got some interesting kinks for sure,” she whispered. Her thoughts drifted to scenes of her hands tied behind her back, her senses heightened due to the strip of silk tied around her eyes, the soft heat of Maki’s breath on the shell of her ear as she murmured “good girl.”

“-bara. Nobara!” That same voice, now louder, shook her from reliving the moment. “Dinner’s ready. You too, Yuji! Last come, last served and I know neither of you want to miss barbecue.”

“Um…coming!” She shouted back as she jogged back with her best friend in tow.

When she reached her girlfriend, Maki pulled her into a hug and leaned down to reply, “Oh, you will tonight.” Nobara looked up in shock, keeping her voice low while shifting her gaze from left to right to ensure the others weren’t paying attention.

“Maki! For real? Panda’s supposed to be in our tent, isn’t he? Look, I know you’re into some fucked up shit, but…”

The older girl rolled her eyes. “Oh please! Get your mind out of the gutter. Relax, I’ll handle panda. I’m not going to miss the chance to try and wake everyone up with your screams.”

Nobara narrowed her eyes. “Get real. You’re good, but you’re not that good, love. My self-control is unparalleled.”

Maki smirked and chuckled darkly. “Babe, you know I love a challenge. We’ll see how that ‘self-control’ holds up with my tongue in your-“

“Shh! I’m begging you, let’s go eat,” Nobara chastised as she pushed her shoulder.

“That’s what I’m trying to do!”

“I mean dinner, you idiot!”

Inumaki’s voice interrupted their banter with a loud, “Salmon!”

“Maki! Nobara! You heard him. There’s not gonna be much left if you keep being all lovey-dovey over there!” Yuji shouted.

The women walked back over to the campsite hand-in-hand, eager to dig into their classmate’s legendary cooking.

—————————-

Night fell quickly as the last few embers of the fire burned, the smell of charring marshmallows and melted chocolate wafting through the air. Maki got up and stretched, a wordless signal to Nobara it was time to retreat.

“Whew, I’m wiped. Thanks for doing all the cooking, Inumaki. It was delicious! I think it’s time Nobara and I headed off to bed.”

Panda started to get up, but Maki was prepared. “Um, Panda? Wouldn’t you rather hang out with the guys tonight? I know you’d probably be bored out of your mind listening to us talking about Nobara’s latest shopping spree.” The other girl shot her a dirty look for using her as the scapegoat.

“Are you sure, Maki? It can get pretty cold out here in the woods at night. I’m essentially a giant teddy bear, you know.”

“You’re so sweet, but I think we should be fine. The sleeping bags we brought are pretty thick. Go on and have a great time.”

Panda nodded and started to help the others clean up. Who better to ensure they didn’t leave anything out for bears to come by and ransack?

The girls opened the tent and before Nobara could even start to zip the entrance closed, she already felt Maki’s hands wandering up her shirt.

“Can you please at least wait until we’re settled in?” She sighed.

The other girl’s lips had already attacked her neck, her mumbles barely coherent against her skin. “Can’t…help it…need you…” She began to lift her shirt but felt Nobara shiver. “Is that because of me?”

“No…Panda was right. It’s fucking cold. Can we at least get in the sleeping bag? I don’t think you’ll object to being that close together.”

“You don’t think that’ll be too warm?”

“Not if you get me naked first. Just quickly, please.”

“That, I can do.” Maki worked fast, throwing her shirt up over her head and helping her shimmy out of her pants and underwear. “Get in there and get cozy,” she commanded before stripping out of her own clothing and setting her glasses somewhere they wouldn’t get crushed.

Sliding into the sleeping bag behind her girlfriend, Maki pulled her in by her waist and continued where she left off.

“Fuck…I thought the guys would never go to bed…” she mumbled as she kissed and nibbled at Nobara’s bare shoulder while her hands roamed her chest.

“Maki…do you really think…ahh…it’s ok for us to be…mmm…doing this? What if they can…ohhhh…hear us?”

The other woman nuzzled against her neck, continuing to kiss upward until her mouth was pressed against her ear.

“Did I not make myself clear earlier? That’s the whole point of this. What happened to your confidence? Don’t think you can hold back?” Her taunting was punctuated by firm squeezes of her breasts, causing Nobara to bite her lip to hold back a moan.

With the sounds of the forest echoing in the night - the chirping of crickets, the flow of a nearby stream - she figured there was no way she’d be loud enough to disturb the others.

“It’s going to feel so good knowing I proved you wrong,” she answered, trying to stoke the competitive fire within Maki.

“You do enjoy being a brat, don’t you? What happened to my good girl?” Nobara’s breath hitched in her throat. Her girlfriend was playing dirty. She knew what that pet name did to her and she clearly wasn’t afraid to bring out the big guns.

Don’t give her the satisfaction. Be strong, Nobara.

“Hey, if you’re going to tease me, what’s the harm in me teasing back? You can dish it but can’t take it?”

“Oh, I can take it. But I’m focused on making you feel so good you don’t think twice about what the others will say tomorrow when you leave this tent sore and bruised,” her mouth trailed back down to her neck and she sucked, hard.

“God…Maki…you can be rough but do it where they can’t see it.”

“Hmmm I thought you liked it when I marked you…don’t be shy.”

“I’m never gonna hear the end of it from Megumi and Yuji.”

“Fine. I’ll be nice,” she acquiesced before shifting so she could leave love bites further down her chest. Stopping to take a nipple between her teeth, she gently tugged it and Nobara slapped a hand over her mouth to stop herself from crying out. Her girlfriend reached for her wrist and tore it away.

“Hey, no cheating. Come on, let me hear those cute little noises you make when I fuck you at home.” Maki kissed her way down her stomach, feeling her abdomen twitch under the warmth of her lips. Try as she might, Nobara couldn’t help but spread her legs in a silent nudge to get her to move faster.

“Maki…please…”

“Beg a little louder for me, baby. Good girls who do as they are told get rewarded,” she said as she kissed her inner thigh. She knew she was just about to get her to break.

Nobara squeezed her eyes shut and threw caution to the wind. Screw it. The guys can make fun of me all they want. It’s worth it.

Clearing her throat, she turned up the volume. “Maki, please…fuck me…”

“There we go. Was that really so hard?” Before her girlfriend could make a smart remark, her tongue slid inside her and turned her words into groans. Nobara’s hands grabbed at Maki’s hair, pulling the girl deeper. Against her better judgment, she looked down between her legs and the sight of her alone almost sent her over the edge.

Maki’s fingers replaced her tongue as she moved to occupy her mouth with Nobara’s clit. Alternating between licking and sucking, she knew just how she was going to make her lose this game.

“Fuck…Maki…keep going…almost…”

“If I make you come right now, you have to promise me you’re not going to stay quiet.”

“I promise! Fuck, I promise, just make me come, please, please, please…”

“You’re so hot when you’re desperate…get ready.” Her tongue circled the sensitive bud while she used one hand to pump two fingers in and out of her. Right when she felt her begin to contract, she slid another finger into Nobara’s ass.

“Fuck!! Makiiiiiiiii!!” She screamed. That was it. There was no way in hell the men in the other tent didn’t hear her.

Maki crawled back up her body and lay next to her, running her hands through the other girl’s ginger-brown hair as she took a moment to catch her breath. It was the perfect opportunity for Nobara to serve up some payback. Grabbing both of her wrists, she swapped positions with her and pinned her to the ground.

“I wonder how the guys will react hearing you?” she said with hunger in her eyes. “If I’m going to have to face them tomorrow, you’re going to as well. Ready to moan like a little bitch?”

“I’d like to see you try it, Kugisaki,” Maki challenged.

Keeping both of her wrists restrained with one hand, Nobara shifted her hips back and forth against hers.

“Mmmm…that’s nice,” Maki quietly moaned. “Gonna have to do better than that, though.”

Nobara’s unoccupied hand moved to her breast, pinching and pulling on her nipple before bringing her mouth to the other and mimicking the movements with her tongue. Maki let out small whimpers of pleasure but refused to budge further. The other girl’s hand roamed between them, her fingers dipping into her opening to gather her arousal. Her hips jolted upward in a silent effort to get her girlfriend to quicken her movements.

“Be patient,” Nobara chastised before placing a kiss on her lips and sliding into her. The first finger gently probed, allowing her to adjust before she added a second. Maki’s groan reverberated against her mouth as her movements rocked her body. Coaxed on by the restrained noises of her lover, she increased her pace as she hit the spot she had learned would make her come undone.

The older girl threw her head back, her mouth agape and eyes screwed shut as she felt her orgasm build. Right as she was about to cross the finish line, Nobara stopped.

“N-nobara…don’t be such a fucking tease…come on…I’m almost…” Maki whined.

Still inside her, she tormented, “You know what you need to do if you want me to continue.”

“Baby, please,” she gasped.

“Not so tough now, are you? Will you be a sweet girl for me and let me hear you moan?” Pleasure slowly began to course through her once more as Nobara started to move again.

“Come on…I know you can be loud for me. That’s all I need. Give it to me, and I’ll let you have what you want.”

Nobara had won this round. Maki needed release.

“O-okay…okay…fuck…please…ohhhhh fuckkkkk!” The pressure of her girlfriend’s fingers against her clit returned, and she shouted out as she rode the wave of her climax. Now that her wrists were freed, she grabbed Nobara and pulled her close for a kiss.

“Man, you play dirty.”

“I know you like it.”

Maki laughed. “Clearly. Alright, let’s get some sleep. I need to prepare myself to face those morons tomorrow morning.”

“They’re probably less surprised hearing me than you.”

“Well, you’re my only weakness,” she said as she snuggled in closer to share body heat. “I’m not ashamed of that. They can tease me all they want, but I’ll never deny how good you make me feel.”

Nobara eased back into her arms. “Ok, Ms. Sentimental. Don’t worry. I’ll beat Yuji’s ass for the both of us if he wants to start something.” With contented smiles and restless hearts, the two fell asleep to the forest lullaby of crickets, warmed by the love they shared.

[mealvaan]

Surrogate

The Antelope encampment was ripe for the Rising. Overhead hung pennants of sunsetting leaves, vermillion cloth and bird feeders, alight with chirping sparrows whose beaks warred for the banquet. The air was thick with barbecue smoke, for a spell — A'khadia Nunh cut through it, a crisp, morning wind dogging his every step as he danced between tents.

"Sparse crowd," A'tari commented sarcastically, deftly dodging a beeline of playing children.

"The shoreline celebrations're for the Limsans. Ours cover 'bout everyone else," A'khadia said. "And no fireworks. Animals dunno the diff'rence between a memorial an' a war."

Heat rose to A'tari's cheeks. She'd helped put together that very fleet, yet she hadn't considered how polarising the sounds of gunfire might be. This went graciously unnoticed by her twin however, as he came to a stop outside the main tent.

"Council's in 'ere now." It was a grand marquee with a sylvan-patterned canopy that, in its colourful intricacy, reminded A'tari of the Turali market.

An epoch ago, the "council" of remaining Windrunners picked a large tree to shelter under through Llymlaen's rancour. It was not unlike the vivid canvas before her, a plume of autumnal leaves, dying only in early August. They had little to discuss save their grief and where to take it. A'khadia was quiet. A'tari tried to lighten the mood. In retrospect, what the hells was wrong with her?

"You alright, Tari?" Of course A'khadia noticed. A'tari put on a smile and shook her head, then nodded once she realised the question.

"Yeah! Yeah, let's go in."

"Mm'kay."

They pushed through the curtain to find a raucous debate. The tent wasn't busy with people, no — only four bickered at the table with plenty room between them for miqa'bobs and empty glasses. But at one of four spokes was A'lizha, who eagerly abused her natural affinity with the winds to amplify her voice over everyone else's. The others at the table seemed well used to it at this point, pressing their points regardless.

More powerful yet A'tari's ability to silence a room in her presence. She felt the cold snap of her legacy every time, even with her tribe. Eight eyes — ten, if she counted A'khadia's behind her — all transfixed by her.

"A'tari!" A'lizha broke the silence, her shock cracking into a great white shard of a grin. How often A'lizha smiled now compared to their youth. "I di'nt think you'd come! C'mere, take a seat."

"Yes, please. We've much to apprise you of," said A'chisisi, an enigmatic figure mostly unfamiliar to A'tari. Yet he seemed to have gained everyone else's approval, sporting a shiny new title and laurels.

"Ain't seen you in a while, star-saver," chimed A'sohal. She regarded the Warrior of Light with the same wonder one would look upon an Allagan monument, foreign and ephemeral despite how long they'd known each other.

"Come, have some tea." A'dusa patted the cushion beside her. The huntress had at least four epochs on the rest of them. While A'khadia saw her as his own grandmother, A'tari only saw her once in a blue moon. The distance between them felt like yet another wedge between her and her own brother.

The two sat with the others. Every eye was on A'tari; she wanted desperately to dissolve into a cloud and retreat to her tent. Of course, A'khadia was oh-so helpful and stayed blissfully silent. No one ever expected him to dispense wisdoms.

"We've been attempting to forge alliance with our O'ghomorran neighbours over the past two moons." Oh, great! Right to business. Thanks, A'chihisi. "For example, we invited them to this sennend's festivities but they declined. What would you recommend we try next?"

A'tari glanced towards A'khadia. He bounced it back with a shrug. The hells should I know? she thought. The Scions made all the big decisions, they just showed her where to work her magic. All she could really do was inhale deep and do her best impression of their little diplomat.

"The kobolds have been preoccupied rebuilding their community after their plights with tempering. If you visit them to offer aid and alms, they would be amenable to further parlay." Yeah, that sounds about right. All the buzzwords she'd known and loved, wrapped up nicely in something vaguely resembling Alphinaud's advice. A'khadia quirked his brow at her.

"Right. They probably don't have time or people to spare to celebrate right now. I'll review our inventory and figure out what we can send..." Cogs were already whirring, grand. But just as she cut off one head, another grew.

"Whenever we travel on the Shroud fringes, we're dogged by demons. You got an easy way you deal with that? Heard there was a big hullabaloo over in the Near East with 'em."

As A'sohal spoke, a dark shadow cast over her brow. A'tari couldn't help but push through the crowd of awful voidsent that'd threatened her life over the epoch, and found the visages cowering Farfarello and once-hopeless Zero insistent in her mind's eye. Still, these malicious people were plaguing her tribe...

"They come in droves, but they're weak on their own," A'tari said, trying to put herself in the mind of Y'shtola. "Prepare spells and artillery that can hit multiple of them at once. Keep a distance so they don't overwhelm you." A'sohal let out an appreciative 'ahaaa', and wrote something down on her wrist.

"Oh, earlier we were tryin' to dye somm've the pennants with ochu leaves, but they came out more brown than green. How d'you get it all bright-like?"

Finally, A'khadia spoke up with a frown. "A'lizha, c'mon. If Tari's givin' you her time, you should use it for important bits, not arts n' crafts."

A'lizha flustered, looking between him and A'tari apologetically. "Sorry, yer'right..."

"You want to leave the dye on for at least two suns and keep it out of the sun," A'tari said.

"Th... Thanks, A'tari." A'lizha was so formal. She used to drop the prefix with her. "We won't keep you any more during the festival, but I think A'dusa had a request of you."

All eyes fell to A'dusa, who had been quietly listening the whole while over a steaming cup.

"Could you give a speech before the feast tonight, dear?" Her crow's feet twinkled at A'tari. A'khadia saw the look on A'tari's face, and moved to rest his hand on A'dusa's arm in warning, but A'tari couldn't disappoint her... Why did everyone want her to give a speech? Why did everyone think she had anything to say?

"S-Sure! Speeches? That's like, a regular Windsday for me. I'm gonna go make some faces in the mirror. You know, for prep."

Before anyone could protest, A'tari was gone in a puff of smoke. The tent was finally, truly wordless. All looks gravitated towards A'khadia. He broke the silence with a sigh.

"Y'overwhelmed her. I'll go find her."

"Di'nt mean to, Khady." A'lizha's ears pressed towards the crown of her head. A'chisisi put his arm over her shoulder.

"It's fine. You can't blame yourself for wanting to take the opportunity to speak with her," he reassured her.

"Send her my apologies, too." A'dusa's hand brushed over A'khadia's knuckles. "A'sohal can give the speech. I just thought..."

"It was a good idea, A'dusa. She's just been through a fair lot an' needs some time. Gimme a bit to speak with her, 'aight?"

The council nodded. With little fanfare, A'khadia got up and made for the entrance.

"Hey now, hold your 'bos. A'khadia, you're meant to be part a' this meeting too, y'know."

"What're you guys chattin' about, then?"

"Music for tonight."

"Pass. Lizha's gonna win that argument over our dead bodies."

"Because I'm making good points!" said A'lizha with at least a couple new decibels under her belt. A'khadia smirked light and parted the curtain, the Windrunners' din behind him now a distant echo.

[sollucets]

I warned you, should you open fic requests I’d be coming straight for your inbox with AkkAyan. I’m obsessed with on our way up/the sky full of stars and I wondered if you’d be willing to write something of it we didn’t get to see like their cooking date from chapter 4 or dinner at Akk’s house from chapter 3

tiis do you know i love you dearly

context from my fic on our way up:

The thing is, he and Akk had spent last night doing crimes against the culinary arts (jointly trying to make stir-fried basil pork in the tiny dorm room kitchen in a small disaster that ended in takeout) + The disaster at his dorm had been almost entirely Akk’s fault, and he’ll die on that hill.

so! as requested i took this briefly referenced incident and proceeded to project my personal (lack of) cooking skills on akk for about 1k(?? these things happen) of fluff. this ficlet brought to you by my best friend thaicookbooktv (and my milestone event. i guess)

💜

"Can I trust you with that?"

Akk glances up from the two eggs he's just started frying to glare at his boyfriend. There's a smug look on Aye's face as he leans against a counter on the other side of the cramped dorm kitchen (and thus within potential grabbing reach) and uses a little bowl to crush up some garlic and peppers (making grabbing probably a bad idea). "I know how to make eggs, Ayan."

"If you say so," Aye tells him, singsong. "I've never once seen you cook."

"That doesn't mean anything." Returning his gaze to the pan, Akk startles to see them more cooked than they should be and hurriedly, awkwardly gets them flipped before Aye gets to pretend it's evidence.

If it'd been anyone else, Akk might have admitted to the truth, which is that he does (sort of) know how to make eggs, and he can grill meat if he's invited to barbecue, but much more is beyond him. He thinks he could be good at it, with time, but he’d never learned to cook much at home, and at school he’d had so much to do that it had always been faster and easier and cheaper to have cafeteria leftovers or something instant. 

But it isn’t anyone else, it’s Aye, and when he’d asked all earnest if they could cook together when he visited, Akk had gritted his teeth and then spent most of last night and the part of the bus ride over that he had decent data on looking up recipes. 

So it’s particularly infuriating that Aye seems to have figured him out right away anyway. Akk scowls down at his eggs. 

“All set over here,” Aye says, then snorts audibly. “What’s that look for? Did the egg insult your parents or something?” 

“Shut up.”

Aye brings his bowl over to Akk’s side of the kitchen and sets it next to the other ingredients on the counter to the right of the stove. He’d only been banished over there in the first place for being distracting; Akk probably should’ve known he’d manage it anyway. 

A moment later, there’s a light breeze against the back of his neck, and Akk jerks against the tickle, barely suppressing a yelp. He’s not actually holding the pan, just his spatula, so the worst that happens to the eggs is them getting slightly jostled, but he aims a blind elbow in the direction of Aye anyway, making contact with his ribs. “Jackass.” 

“Violent authoritarian,” Aye responds, cheerful if slightly strained. “Those look good."

Once the eggs are safely off the heat, Aye hands him a larger pan, shuffling some things around on the little counter once there’s enough space. “Turn the heat up a little higher and put a little oil in there, okay?” 

Akk glances over for the bottle of vegetable oil and grabs it. His recipe-searching had turned up the idea, but Aye isn’t using one, and Akk does not know how much ‘a little’ is. He sighs, sends a sideways look at Aye where he’s putting the egg pan in the sink, and tentatively pours some oil in. 

“More than that.”

Frowning, Akk does as told. When he checks Aye’s reaction, he finds his boyfriend leaning on his hip against the counter and holding the bowl of vegetables again. 

“Were you nervous about this?” Aye asks, tone a too-familiar combination of fond and condescending.

“Why would I be,” says Akk, too quickly. Always too quickly. That’s something Aye’s pointed out before, he should know better. 

“‘Cause you wanted to impress me? I understand.” 

Akk rolls his eyes, keeping his attention on the oil where it’s heating up. “You’re extra annoying today. Is it a special occasion?” 

“Of course it is,” says Aye, tone gone painfully sincere. “My boyfriend came to see me.”

When Akk reacts far too late to keep a smile off his face, Aye pokes his cheek. “I’m happy, too,” he coos. “Now scoot, please. This next part has to happen kind of fast.”

Akk shuffles out of the way, letting Aye move in front and pour his little bowl into the pan, and sends a baleful look at Aye’s back. He’s looking far too cool in this situation; it has to be fixed. 

Decided, Akk moves until he’s right behind his boyfriend, then hooks his chin over his shoulder, looping both arms around his waist, and glances down at the pan. With the bowl poured out, something looks a little suspicious in the garlic-to-chili pepper ratio. “Aye,” Akk says, trying to make sure his breath hits the skin of Aye’s neck over his t-shirt, “Did you put enough spice in?” 

Annoyingly, Aye takes this without much in the way of reaction, only leaning back into Akk’s hold, and doesn’t even flinch. He reaches out for the bowl of meat and says, amused, “The neck is your weakness, not mine, Bigfoot.”

“That’s not an answer."

“Hey, who's the one of us that actually knows how to make it?” 

“I could figure it out,” Akk says mutinously, dropping his face all the way to Aye’s shoulder in defeat and speaking into his skin. It’s not his fault Aye is apparently some kind of cooking expert who’s never needed a recipe in his life. 

Aye laughs, just audible over the suddenly-loud sizzling sound of what Akk assumes is him adding something else to the meat. “I’m sure you could, baby, you’re smart. You just haven’t had much practice.”

“I help at home,” Akk retorts, offended. 

“I know, I know.” Aye’s shoulder moves, presumably stirring, as he continues, “You don’t need to worry about it. I’ll cook for you, so long as you always do the dishes.” 

Squeezing Aye’s waist just that bit too hard in retribution, Akk scoffs. “As if. I’ll practice more. I’m not doing your dishes for the rest of our lives.”

The sizzling gets a little louder, and Aye doesn’t respond. Akk blinks, lifts his head, and sees Aye frozen over the stove, one hand out on a bottle of soy sauce and the other not moving a spatula at all. “What?” 

“You said—” Aye starts, sounding awed. “You said ‘the rest of our lives’.”

“Oh.” Akk swallows on the impulse to deny it and just— lets it sit. Hides his face in Aye’s shoulder again and leaves it there, feels his ears heating up. What can he say? They’ve made the joke before, about their pins and wedding rings. It’s stupid, they’re teenagers, they’ve gone too fast, and he meant it, or it wouldn’t’ve slipped out.

Gratifyingly, Aye seems just as unable to speak for a moment. Eventually, he stutters, “I— that— sounds good to me,” and then, “I love you,” and then, “Oh, shit, the pork.” 

[tinyinvadr]

Next chapter’s here!

Psychoborrower

Chapter 15

“What do you say? Shall we turn up the heat?”

“Oh, you know how I love a good barbecue, Augustus!”

The evil version of Raz’s dad lit Butch’s cleavers on fire, then positioned himself behind him to juggle his flaming pins. Just as I thought, they were playing dirty.

All we could do was dodge the attacks. We couldn’t get anywhere near Butch to land a hit on him.

“What do we do??” Oly asked, starting to panic.

Maintaining my focus, I watched as the juggling pins rained down on us. There was something familiar about this, like a battle I already fought. Then, realization hit me. And a flaming pin, but that’s besides the point.

This was just like when Raz and I fought the Nightmares in Boyd’s mind. If we wanted to beat them, we had to give them a taste of their own medicine.

It looked like our best bet at taking down Butch was to hit him in the knees, so I aimed and threw a pin at him, forcing him to kneel. Just as Raz was about to jump up and punch him, Oly beat him to it.

Yep, now that was more like the Coach that I knew. Good thing he was on our side.

“That’s for killing the bunnies!”

Punch.

“And that’s for trying to kill my friends!”

Punch.

“And THAT’S for trying to kill me!”

At the third punch, Butch toppled over, falling into the meat grinder. But as he fell, he grabbed Oly, intending to take his own son down with him.

Raz and I both grabbed him with our TK, forcing him out of his father’s grasp and saving him at the last second.

Once he got over the shock of almost being turned into ground meat, he turned to us and smiled.

“I… I did it! I stood up to my Dad!”

The evil mental Augustus scowled, still juggling his flaming pins like his life depended on it.

“Murderers! You killed him just like those no-good psychics killed my father! You should be ashamed of yourself, Raz-”

“Razputin!”

Not a moment too soon, his real dad arrived. Finally, we could all be free from this terrible place.

Raz was… surprised, to say the least. He did tell me he suspected his father was also psychic, but I don’t think he expected to actually see him use his powers. And he also didn’t expect to learn that his dad was the one who sent me into his mind.

“Son… I’m sorry. I only ever wanted to protect you. Our family has powerful enemies, and I thought that keeping you from using your powers was the only way to keep you safe. But I never should have done that. Not when it came at the expense of your happiness. Besides, now I see that it’s better for you to learn to defend yourself. You’ve grown so much in such a short time.”

“Don’t listen to him! I hate psychics!”

Augustus looked saddened by the sight of how monstrous he appeared in Raz’s mind, but he shook it off. Then, with a smirk, he PSI-Blasted his evil clone into the meat grinder.

“I’ve got a lot more hair than that!”

Wow… he’s cool.

With our enemies defeated and everyone together, the time had finally come to begin separating the minds. Though, that was all on Augustus. I’m not sure where he learned how to do this stuff, considering he had no affiliation with the Psychonauts, but I’m guessing he did research on his own time. Impressive.

“Hehe… why is your dad kinda-”

“Ew! Shut up, Flint.”

Suddenly, the grinder started whirring again, meat spurting out of it as the mushed together bodies of Butch and Evil Augustus dragged themselves out. If we only knew that the grinder would just make them bigger and scarier, we never would’ve pushed them in.

Since Augustus already began the process of untangling the minds, the mental world itself was starting to collapse. The circus tent tore itself apart at the seams, leaving us in a wasteland that was once a place of meat-themed fun for the whole family.

Before I could fully process what was happening, the mismatched limbs of the Dad Monster snatched up me and Oly.

“If we’re going down, we’re taking you down with us!”

We both struggled and squirmed, attempting to PSI-Blast the monster to no avail. Somehow, blending them made them stronger.

It looked like it was the end of the line for us, but I glanced over at Augustus. He did some sort of psychic transfer with Raz, giving him a boost of energy that manifested in a giant aura projection. He was big enough to hit the monster where it really hurt.

He punched both their faces, making them drop us. I got the wind knocked out of me, but I recovered quickly and helped Oly up. We ran to join Augustus as we watched Raz absolutely demolish the Dad Monster, and soon enough, the untangling was finished.

A huge dark vortex opened up beneath the monster, sucking them in and destroying them forever. Then, everything else started to get pulled in with them.

Raz’s aura projection timed out, and he quickly levitated over to catch up to us. Then, together, we ran from the Meat Circus as it collapsed into the void, never to be seen again.

There was a blinding light, and before I knew it, we were back outside the caravan. I had been briefly knocked out, and reverted to borrower-size during that time.

The first thing I noticed was Oly, who was happily standing in the meadow while holding his bunny. I winced at the sight of it, but I remained calm.

Beside me sat Augustus and Raz, who was still recovering from what happened.

“No… No more meat!”

His father pulled him in for a hug, quietly reassuring him that the nightmare was over. I smiled, relieved to see that Raz had a support system in his dad after all. He was going to be okay.

Oly waved goodbye as the meadow drifted away, the two final remnants of the conjoined minds separating. That left the three of us and the caravan.

Once Raz calmed down, we all left his mind. By that point, the counselors and Lili had woken up, and they re-brained Raz and Oleander right away.

Of course, the plan for Coach immediately after returning his brain was to fire him and turn him over to the authorities, but I vouched for him to have a second chance. Sure, what he did was horrible, but after seeing what state his mind was truly in, I could understand why he would be driven to act so extreme.

He had no one to help him work through his childhood trauma, so he pushed those feelings down and let himself become obsessed with trying to prove his own strength, when deep down, he was hurting the whole time. He couldn’t even get help from the Psychonauts because he hid the truth from them.

He was like me, in a way.

I tried to close myself off. To act like my past didn’t bother me, and pushed myself to become a Psychonaut as if it was the only thing that mattered. I think the reason I didn’t lose myself completely is because the staff saw that I was putting up a front and went out of their way to help me in subtle ways. Unfortunately, they didn’t recognize that Oleander was going through the same thing.

It was well after midnight when we all returned to camp. Ford set up a place for Augustus to sleep in the main lodge, then he and Oleander went to their respective quarters for the night.

Raz invited me to join him in the boys’ cabin, but I turned him down. I’d had more than enough human interaction for the day, and I knew the other boys would want to stay up all night and bombard me with questions. I just wanted to sleep.

So, I went back with Sasha, who was well aware that I was staying in the walls of his lab. He knew exactly where my room was, but never went anywhere near it out of respect for my privacy and sense of safety. It’s something I really appreciate in hindsight.

“Man… I can’t believe I didn’t realize you knew all along. Guess that explains why you always leave full plates of food sitting out. You… do know I don’t eat that much, right?”

He chuckled. “Yes, I know. But it would have been too obvious if I only left out tiny portions.”

“Yeah, I guess that makes sense.”

There was a moment of silence as he set me down on his workbench, right near the hole that served as my entrance into the wall. I didn’t go in, though. I stood there, looking up at Sasha.

“Is something wrong, Flint?”

“I just… I know I should probably go home after all this. My parents must be worried sick. I mean, I’ve been gone for three years, they probably think I’m dead. They… They deserve to know what I did.”

Sasha nodded, his expression stoic and unchanging as it almost always was.

“But you’re worried they won’t let you come back here after you go home.”

“Yeah… What I did was wrong, I know that now. But at the same time… going back could mean giving up everyone and everything I’ve come to care about here. And… I don’t know if I can do that. I’m happy that things worked out between Raz and his dad, but that doesn’t guarantee the same for me. If I go back, I might end up having to sacrifice who I really am just to please them. I just… I don’t know what to do.”

He thought it over for a minute, then spoke again.

“Flint… Whatever you decide to do, you have my full support. This is a difficult decision to make, and I don’t want to influence your choice. Though, I do have a suggestion. There is no set, single way to make amends for a previous mistake. Consider all of your options first. I can guarantee there’s something you haven’t thought of yet. But before anything else, you should get some sleep.”

I yawned, feeling my eyelids already getting heavy. Saying the events of that day were exhausting was an understatement.

Sasha pulled my matchbox bed out of the wall, setting it down next to me. Then, he gently lifted me up and placed me in it, tucking me in with the borrowed cloth I used for bedding. Before he could pull his hand away, I grabbed his index finger and hugged it.

“Thank you… for everything.”

I had already shut my eyes, but I could tell from his voice that he was smiling.

“Get some rest, Flint. We’ll talk more in the morning.”

[lakshay010]

Glamping Tents

Glamping Tents: Embrace Luxury and Adventure in the Great Outdoors

Introduction: Glamping, a fusion of glamour and camping, has gained immense popularity among adventure seekers who desire a unique and luxurious outdoor experience. At the heart of this trend are glamping tents, which combine the comfort and elegance of a hotel with the beauty and serenity of nature. Let's explore the world of glamping tents, where style meets adventure, creating unforgettable memories in breathtaking locations.

Glamping Tents: Redefining Outdoor Accommodations: Glamping tents have revolutionized traditional camping by offering a luxurious and stylish alternative. These accommodations boast spacious interiors, plush beds, and charming decor, providing a cozy and comfortable retreat in the midst of nature.

Embrace Nature in Style with Glamping Tents: Glamping tents allow guests to immerse themselves in nature without compromising on comfort. From their panoramic windows, guests can witness the stunning landscapes, majestic mountains, or serene lakes that surround their temporary abode, creating a unique and immersive connection with the outdoors.

The Elegance of Glamping Tents: Glamping tents exude elegance and charm with their thoughtfully designed interiors. The use of fine fabrics, tasteful furnishings, and ambient lighting creates an inviting and romantic ambiance, elevating the glamping experience to new heights of luxury.

Adventure Awaits: Glamping Tents in Remote Locations: Glamping tents are often found in remote and breathtaking locations, offering guests the opportunity to explore untamed landscapes while enjoying the comforts of a well-appointed accommodation. Whether it's a secluded forest, a picturesque beach, or a rugged desert, these locations provide a sense of adventure and escapism.

Glamping Tents: Unforgettable Outdoor Amenities: Glamping tents go beyond basic camping amenities, offering an array of luxurious features. Private en-suite bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and cozy seating areas are just a few of the amenities that ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay amidst nature's grandeur.

Glamping Tents for Every Season: Glamping tents are designed to provide comfort in all seasons. Whether it's a cozy winter retreat with heating systems and fireplaces or a breezy summer escape with air conditioning and outdoor lounges, these tents offer a year-round glamping experience for guests to indulge in.

Family-Friendly Glamping Tents: Glamping tents cater to families, providing ample space and privacy for everyone to enjoy. With separate sleeping areas, communal living spaces, and outdoor amenities such as fire pits and barbecue areas, families can create cherished memories while reconnecting with nature.

Eco-Friendly Glamping in Sustainable Tents: Many glamping tents embrace eco-friendly practices, utilizing sustainable materials and eco-conscious designs. These tents blend seamlessly into the environment, allowing guests to indulge in the beauty of nature while leaving a minimal footprint.

Glamping Tents: A Gateway to Adventure: Beyond the luxurious accommodations, glamping tents serve as a gateway to thrilling outdoor activities. From hiking and kayaking to wildlife safaris and stargazing, these experiences complement the glamping lifestyle, providing opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Glamping Tents: Unforgettable Experiences Await: In conclusion, glamping tents have redefined the way we experience the great outdoors. With their luxurious interiors, stunning locations, and unique amenities, these tents offer an extraordinary blend of comfort and adventure. Embrace the serenity, elegance, and excitement that glamping tents provide as you embark on unforgettable journeys and create lifelong memories.

Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, glamping tents offer an enticing escape that allows you to connect with nature without sacrificing the comforts of modern living. Step into the world of glamping and unlock a world of luxury amidst the beauty of the natural world.

[fcukfodmap]

Day 44: Pork Tenderloins with Low-FODMAP Gluten-Free Hoisin Sauce, Green Beans & Potatoes

So, this is a recipe that in the before-FODMAP times I made often as a quick and easy weekday meal. It's one-pan, and requires minimal prep and cooking time. It's also baked in the oven, so you don't have to babysit some damn sauce. In the low-FODMAP diet times, it turned into hilarious cascading and increasing quests and diversions. The end result was fcuking great, so I'm not mad, but it was pretty funny getting there.

So firstly, the recipe calls for hoisin sauce, which is basically a Cantonese barbecue sauce. Like all commercially available sauces, it's full up with high-FODMAP ingredients. (And, as I discovered looking at the label of the bottle of hoisin in my kitchen, made with sweet potatoes, which I'm allergic to. So that's fun.) So I decided to make my own.

I read through some recipes for hoisin. Great! I'll just pick up some five spice powder on my way home from work, and I'll be in business. I get to the SuperOne, and it turns out it's way too Midwest to have something as esoteric as five spice powder. So now I have to mix my own. I read through recipes for that, and it turns out there's some stuff I do not have in my kitchen. But I'm not going to fuss over authenticity, so I just made some substitutions, and here we are. To the recipe, such as it is:

Pork Tenderloins with Low-FODMAP Gluten-Free Hoisin Sauce, Green Beans & Potatoes

For the low-FODMAP hoisin sauce:

6 tbsp brown sugar

3 tbsp water

3 tbsp gluten-free soy sauce

2 tbsp white wine vinegar

4 tsp mirin

1 tsp corn starch

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground fennel seeds

1/4 tsp anise

1/8 tsp cloves

1/8 tsp cayenne

Put all ingredients into a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Simmer over low heat, stirring often, until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. Let cool for another 10.

For everything else:

4 tbsp lactose-free butter

2 tbsp minces fresh chives

2 lbs pork tenderloins (2 loins, 1 lb a piece, of equal size)

1 lb green beans, trimmed and cut into 1 in lengths

2 lbs fingerling or new potatoes, halved or quartered

salt, pepper & olive oil

Preheat oven to 450F. Combine butter, chives, and 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper, and set aside. Pat pork tenderloins dry, put into a shallow bowl, and pour the hoisin over the tenderloins. Leave to marinade.

Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Arrange the green beans in the center of a rimmed baking sheet. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Arrange potatoes, cut side down, all around the green beans on the pan.

Lay the tenderloins side by side with a little room between on top of the green beans. Roast until pork reaches 140F, 20-25 minutes, basting with hoisin halfway through. Transfer tenderloins to a cutting board, put a tbsp of the butter-chive mixture on top of each, and tent with tin foil while the meat rests.

Return the potatoes and beans to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, until the beans are tender and the potatoes well browned. Put beans and potatoes in separate bowls. Toss the potatoes with the rest of the butter-chive mixture.

As I said earlier, this turned out pretty freaking great. The homemade hoisin was really intense, much more intense than the store-bought versions I've used in the past. As I've said before, the ratios of spices to one another is more vibes-based than anything, so you could certainly tinker with the levels. I added cayenne, for example, because I didn't have any Thai chili paste or similar. You could also go with sriracha if you wanted more heat, or none of the the above if you didn't want any.

I think this ended up being one of the more successful low-FODMAP experiments I've undertaken. While I still resent the shit out of this asinine diet, it's given me an education in all kinds of culinary foundationals. I don't think there's any world in which I'd make my own freaking hoisin sauce if it weren't for this dumb diet. So it's been an education, at the very least. Booyah.

Daily disclaimer: I am no dietician. I'm doing my best to minimize FODMAPs in my diet, but it's possible for me to be misinformed or mistaken about various ingredients.

[canyonranchrv]

Experience the Ultimate RV Camp Resort at Canyon Ranch RV

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Canyon Ranch RV, enthusiasts of outdoor adventure and tranquility alike find their haven. This premier RV camp resort offers an unparalleled experience, blending modern amenities with the serenity of nature to create unforgettable memories.

At Canyon Ranch RV, guests are welcomed into a world where comfort meets exploration. Whether you arrive in a motorhome, trailer, or tent, the resort's spacious and well-appointed sites ensure a relaxing stay. Each site is designed with convenience in mind, featuring full hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars.

Nature enthusiasts will find themselves spoiled for choice with the resort's pristine surroundings. Surrounded by towering pines and majestic mountains, Canyon Ranch RV offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, serene walking trails wind through the property, perfect for morning strolls or afternoon relaxation.

A highlight of Canyon Ranch RV is its exceptional amenities, crafted to enhance every aspect of your stay. Guests can unwind in the heated swimming pool or rejuvenate in the soothing hot tub after a day of exploration. Families and friends can gather at the spacious clubhouse, complete with a game room and social lounges, ideal for bonding over games or sharing stories of the day's adventures.

For culinary delights, the resort boasts barbecue areas and a well-equipped outdoor kitchen, inviting guests to savor delicious meals amidst the natural beauty. Additionally, organized activities and events cater to all ages, promising entertainment and community spirit throughout your stay.

Canyon Ranch RV is more than just a destination; it's a gateway to unforgettable experiences. Whether you seek solitude in nature's embrace or vibrant camaraderie with fellow travelers, this resort promises to exceed expectations. Come and discover why Canyon Ranch RV is renowned for offering the ultimate RV camping experience, where every moment is an opportunity to forge indelible memories amidst the beauty of nature.

For more info :-

Canyon Ranch RV

[prismatranslates-cue]

Girls meet meat! à la carte Part 8

Previously: Part 7

Maika: I’ve got an idea.

Haruna: What is it?

Maika: Here, look at this poster here.

Honoka: Let’s see…”Tents available for rent”?

Haruna: You want to rent a canopy tent?

Maika: If we get a waterproof tent, we won’t have to worry about another sudden downpour.

Shiho: Do we have the money for it, though?

Maika: See, my family’s always been coming here for all our barbecues. So I’ve got a stash of discount coupons.

Honoka: So you can rent one on the cheap?

Maika: With the amount I’ve got, it might as well be free.

Haruna: That’s amazing, Maika-chan!

Shiho: But what if it doesn’t end up raining?

Honoka: That’s fine, it’ll still be handy. It’ll give us shade from the sun’s heat, for one.

Maika: The only thing now is how we’ll set it up.

Haruna: Oh no…would we have to do it all ourselves?

Shiho: But we are just helpless little girls.

Maika: Aren’t you forgetting someone? We’ve got someone who’s perfect for this kind of thing.

Maika: Isn’t that right, Honoka?

Honoka: Stuff like this, you can count on me!

---

Maika: I got the tent~ All yours, Honoka.

Honoka: OK! I’ll need you guys to help, though. Don’t worry, just do what I tell you.

Haruna: You got it!

Shiho: I’ll do what I can.

Honoka: Okay, first let’s open it up. Everyone grab a corner and spread it out.

Maika: All done. What’s next?

Honoka: Next, take these poles…

Shiho: Are we going to do a pole dance?

Haruna: Shiho-chan, don’t be weird.

Shiho: I was just thinking we could have some fun while we were at it…

Maika: What do we do with these?

Honoka: These will give the tent its structure. It’s gonna be a dome shape, right?

Honoka: Stick the poles through the hole like this…and give it a good bend, like this.

Maika: Ooh, it’s starting to look like a tent already.

Honoka: Come on, you guys do it too.

Haruna: Hup…there. Is this okay?

Honoka: Ooh, yup! Alright, now we’ll secure it all together.

Shiho: Honoka, help…

Honoka: What the heck? You really can’t do it?

Shiho: I am just a mere humanities student.

Honoka: Here, let me. Hup…okay, there we go.

Maika: Will this do, Honoka?

Honoka: Let me see? …Yep, perfect. Way to go, Maika!

Maika: Yay! I help my dad out with stuff like this all the time.

Shiho: Curses, I wish to be praised as well…

Honoka: Okay, moving on to the next step. Stick these pegs into the ground, and we’ll tie the tent down using them.

Haruna: Pegs? What are those…?

Honoka: They should look like big spikes with a hook on one end.

Haruna: Found them! These, right?

Honoka: Yep, so now we’ll drive them into the ground with this hammer.

Haruna: I don’t think I’ve so much as touched a hammer before…

Shiho: Allow me. I’ll do it.

Haruna: Are you sure, Shiho-chan?

Shiho: Of course. This is nothing.

Honoka: Careful not to hit your hand.

Shiho hammers away.

Shiho: Oh no…!

Haruna: Shiho-chan! Are you okay?!

Honoka: Sigh, what did I tell you? Are you hurt? Give me your hand.

Honoka: Wait, what? It’s perfectly fine.

Shiho: I saw that I was about to hit it, so I quickly moved it out of the way.

Honoka: Nice. Didn’t know you could react that quick!

Shiho: Praise from Honoka. Yay.

Maika: Is that really what you want to be complimented for, though…?

Haruna: Thanks, Shiho-chan. I think I can take it from here.

Honoka: You’ll get the most power if you go at it from a 45° angle.

Haruna: 45 degrees? Okay, got it.

Haruna hammers away.

Honoka: There you go! Nice work, Haruna!

Haruna: You’re right Shiho-chan, it does feel good getting complimented.

Shiho: See what I’m talking about?

---

Honoka: …Alright, and that’s how you set up a tent!

Haruna: Yay! We did it!

Maika: Honoka did most of the work, though.

Shiho: That’s all well and good that we set it up, but it really doesn’t seem like there’s going to be any more rain.

Shiho: The weather’s all nice and clear now.

Haruna: Yeah. It’s getting pretty hot out, actually.

Honoka: Hey, look at the family next to us. Their kid’s fallen asleep.

Haruna: Yeah. They look like they’re sweating up a storm, too…

Maika: Excuse me! If you don’t mind, I have a suggestion for you…

Shiho: Maika’s approaching them.

Maika: You can come use this tent if you’d like! It’s nice and cool in the shade.

To be continued...in Part 9

[haimont]

Foundational Camping Skills for Beginners: Building a Fire, Cooking Food, and Basic Tent Setup

Craving the camping experience can stem from various motives:

1. Yearning for a romantic outdoor escapade with friends, where you gather around a campfire, gaze at the stars, and relish delightful barbecues. 2. Opt for a local or global summer camp to forge connections with numerous new acquaintances. 3. Merely seeking an escape from crowds, yearning to draw nearer to nature's embrace. 4. Undertaking a trial of wilderness survival skills, aiming to conquer the challenges it presents.

Based on different needs, the selection of a camping site and travel tools varies. If circumstances allow, you might consider opting for a motorhome, enabling you to bring along an array of advanced equipment. Alternatively, you can choose a well-equipped camping site with amenities like barbecue pits, public toilets, and showers. The difficulty level here is nearly negligible, so we won't delve into it any further.

On the other hand, we won't be delving into the extremely challenging form of camping, where intentionally, no matches or lighters are carried, no provisions are packed, and venturing into a remote area with no signal is undertaken. This involves survival on wild fruits and mushrooms, engaging in fishing and hunting, subsisting off the land, spending nights in trees, or even excavating your own cave.

Here is a brief guide for a 2-day backpacking camping expedition.

This style of camping falls within a moderate difficulty level with basic requirements, primarily focused on sustenance and rest.

Firstly, it's essential to assess the weather and terrain. For those new to this, it's advisable to avoid destinations prone to heavy rain, snowstorms, or flash floods. Additionally, intentionally picking desert regions, glaciers, or tropical rainforests is not recommended.

Both you and your companion should pack tents, sleeping pads, sleeping bags, and two days' worth of food and water, along with essentials like a hand saw and a headlamp. Load these onto your convertible travel backpacks to gauge their weight, providing a sense of your potential hiking capacity. Utilize this information to pinpoint your camping spot and departure time.

Consider visiting an outdoor equipment store and informing the staff of your needs. They can assist in packing these items and even allow you to test their fit on your back. This trial run won't incur any cost, so it's definitely worth a shot.

Fundamental Techniques for Eating and Staying Warm - Igniting a Fire

Begin by sourcing a handful of rocks from your vicinity to encircle the fire pit. Gather newspapers to serve as the primary ignition material. Acquire pinecones, dry small twigs, and dry grass to act as secondary ignition sources. Collect medium-sized, dry branches. If possible, seek out sizeable portions of dried trees. Refrain from cutting fresh trees or branches directly, as this not only harms the environment but also results in materials too damp to ignite effectively.

However, in the forest, you will come across both fully opened and dried pine cones, as well as those that remain closed. It's recommended to opt for the opened ones over the closed ones, as the closed ones tend to retain moisture and are less conducive to burning.

In my hand, I have two varieties of pine cones.

The stones serve to concentrate heat, minimize heat dissipation, shield against the wind, and safeguard the adjacent terrain from sparks that could potentially start a fire. Smooth-surfaced stones can also be employed for cooking purposes.

These materials, being byproducts themselves and stemming from natural crops, are akin to fallen leaves and lifeless branches. Consequently, they won't harm the environment. After your meal, if you create a fire, these utensils can be burned right there. If no fire is in the picture, you can locate a soft, damp patch of earth to bury them, where nature will swiftly break them down.

On the contrary, disposable items composed of synthetic chemicals, when incinerated, release harmful gases, and when buried, they resist decomposition. Camping offers an excellent chance to connect with nature, and I hope everyone can contribute to environmental preservation and make an effort to avert pollution.

When the time comes to build a fire, I'll tear off small portions of the dough and gently cook them on heated stones until they achieve a state of culinary perfection. The taste is beyond words, truly delightful.

We position the dough atop each stone, and the air becomes infused with the aroma of garlic. The scent is incredibly enticing.

To ensure an enjoyable camping experience, we’re using the Haimont ultralight backpacking tent along with essential tent gear: an inflatable sleeping pad (can be inflated with your breath) + sleeping bag (select the level of insulation based on the nighttime temperature of your camping spot).

Crucial reminder: It's advisable to store all items, particularly your shoes, within the tent. Rather than leaving them outside, place them inside to prevent them from becoming damp with nighttime dew. Food might also attract ants or be snatched by small animals.

[tentrentalsbyjesanas]

Elegant Outdoor Gatherings: Tent Rental in New Philadelphia

Introduction

There is an undeniable charm to hosting outdoor gatherings – from weddings and birthday celebrations to corporate events and community festivals. The open sky, the soothing breeze, and the beauty of nature create an ambiance that is hard to replicate indoors. However, as idyllic as outdoor events may sound, they often come with the challenge of unpredictable weather conditions. This is where tent rental in New Philadelphia come into play, offering a practical and elegant solution to ensure that your outdoor gathering remains a memorable and comfortable experience.

The Role of Tents in Outdoor Gatherings

Weather Protection

The foremost advantage of tent rentals is their ability to shield event attendees from the vagaries of weather. In New Philadelphia, like many other places, weather conditions can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers or scorching sun. Tents provide a protective barrier, keeping guests dry during rain and providing shade to combat the heat. This ensures that your event is not ruined by unexpected weather conditions.

Shade and Comfort

In the warm summer months, shade becomes a precious commodity. Tents create a cool and shaded environment, transforming outdoor events from uncomfortable to enjoyable. They protect attendees from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of heat-related discomfort or illnesses, ensuring everyone's well-being.

Aesthetic Enhancement

Tents are more than just functional; they can also elevate the aesthetics of outdoor gatherings. With a variety of styles and designs available, tents can be customized to align with the theme and style of the event, creating an inviting and visually appealing atmosphere. The interplay of natural light and the tent's architecture adds depth and beauty to the surroundings, making it an integral part of the event's décor.

Tent Rental Options in New Philadelphia

Diverse Styles

New Philadelphia tent rental services offer a wide range of tent styles to suit various event themes and sizes. Whether you're planning a rustic outdoor wedding, an upscale corporate gala, or a casual community picnic, there is a tent option to match your vision. From classic white tents to modern clear-span structures, the choices are abundant.

Sizes to Accommodate Any Gathering

Tent rental companies in New Philadelphia understand that gatherings come in all sizes. They offer tents in various dimensions to accommodate intimate gatherings and large-scale affairs alike. Whether you need a compact tent for a family barbecue or a sprawling structure for a music festival, New Philadelphia's tent rentals have you covered.

Customization

To make your event truly unique, tent rental companies often provide customization options. From choosing the color of the tent fabric to adding decorative elements, lighting, and flooring, you can tailor the tent to align perfectly with your event's style and ambiance. This level of personalization ensures that your event stands out and leaves a lasting impression.

Ease of Setup and Professional Assistance

Stress-Free Setup

Setting up tents for an outdoor event can be a logistical challenge. Fortunately, tent rental companies in New Philadelphia offer professional installation services. Their experienced teams handle everything, from delivering and setting up the tent to dismantling it when the event concludes. This allows event hosts to focus on other aspects of their event planning, reducing stress and ensuring a seamless experience.

Safety and Reliability

Tent rental companies prioritize safety. Their experts ensure that tents are securely installed to withstand wind, rain, and other weather conditions. This commitment to safety gives event organizers peace of mind, knowing that their guests are protected from the elements.

Cost-Effective Solution

Budget-Friendly

Organizing an outdoor gathering can be costly, and constructing permanent outdoor structures can be prohibitively expensive. Tent rentals in New Philadelphia offer a cost-effective alternative. They provide all the benefits of outdoor comfort without the substantial price tag. This budget-friendly approach allows individuals and organizations to host elegant and memorable events without exceeding their budgets.

Avoiding Maintenance Costs

Permanent outdoor structures, such as pavilions or gazebos, require ongoing maintenance, which can add to the long-term cost. Tent rentals eliminate these maintenance expenses, making them a practical choice for one-time or occasional events.

Conclusion

The art of hosting elegant outdoor gatherings lies in creating an environment where attendees can fully immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while remaining sheltered from its unpredictability. New Philadelphia tent rentals have mastered this art, offering versatile and elegant solutions for outdoor events. These tents provide weather protection, shade, and a touch of aesthetics, enhancing the overall experience.

New Philadelphia's tent rental options cater to a wide range of event styles and sizes, ensuring that there's a tent for every occasion. With customization options, event hosts can craft a unique ambiance that perfectly aligns with their vision. The ease of setup and professional assistance provided by rental companies reduce stress and ensure the safety of attendees.

[ashknife]

Low-Key Haikus 6: Bringing the Heat

Haiku silliness after the break. There are haikus hidden in the haikus. A couple of creative liberties were taken for syllable count and phrasing (e.g. yes, I know the phrase in a hidden haiku is supposed to be "Whoa, Nellie!").

Immolation now The sun burns out all of life Typical August

Time for a long dip Swimming in the afternoon Pool of cool water

Searing heat burns all The rocks boil and trees wilt Hurray for A/C

Air conditioning Blessed extraction of heat Boo: power outage

Melting ice cream cone Dripping all over the place A sticky delight

Icebergs melting down High temperatures persist Where is the winter?

Lubrication on Sunscreen deflects the UV Sunburn protection

Dries, the sun, it does Boils the swamp to nothing Heatstroke for Yoda

Smoke means fire, they say Hot weather means drier fuel Bear says, “Only you.”

Until fall, no reprieve Shovel snow cone to beat heat Glorious brain freeze

Mealtime has arrived Fruits, yogurt, and sandwiches Fare for the hot days

Meat: grilled perfection Juicy flesh encased in crust Texas barbecue

Enflamed surroundings Puffy dark clouds rolling in Blessed thunderstorm

Right to the river Fishing, splashing, marshmallows Tent under the stars

Oh, thunderous blast! Colors sparkle in the night Fireworks explode bright

Nellie nips at feet Chasing kids into water Doggo beats the heat

Lips meet lemonade Cool, sweet, and tart: perfection The simple pleasures

Yearning for better Oppressive heat reminds us Of His still waters

To hell and then back Grocery run for dessert Popsicles melted

Eat outside with friends Laughter and games, food and drink Work days forgotten

Never hike alone Carry plenty of water Heatstroke is deadly

Thinking of degrees The warmth of the Father’s love, Or the lake of fire?

Hard, cold ice in cups Filled with bubbly soda pop Sweet, sweet refreshment

Outside burns all life Armageddon comes for all O summer afternoon

Usually we hide To avoid the heated air Inside with cool fans

Swimming at the pool Diving and cannonballs, ho! The children giggle

Also dreading school Summer days are flying by Time flies on fun

Needing vacation The waves of the beach call forth Road trip is inbound

Drinks cool heated soul Restores dehydrated flesh Wonderful fluids

Draining streams flood curb Thunder, lightning, and raindrops Fresh scent of cool air

Energy for fan Stuffy air now in full breeze Electric goodness

Grief in afternoon Hot sun beats on laborers Sweat and tears to live

Reaching for the stars Crickets chirping in concert Lazy summer night

Extremities burn Unrelenting sun cooks all Soothing aloe heals

Executing: dive Modulation: forward flip Error: belly flop

Shade shields the sun’s rays Hottest days made bearable Rest stop for walkers

Maybe the heat sucks Summer still holds its treasures Certain points of view

Use caution with fire Roasted marshmallows are good Burnt fingers, not so

Sunscreen: good for skin No sunscreen: may cause cancer Like everything else

Tanning on the beach Waves are crashing; lulled to sleep Now, extra crispy

Has the brisket smoked? Bring the sides, set the table Tasty meal for all

Applications in Summer jobs for college kids Funds for having fun

Very hot today is Refreshing swamp cooler is Drink green Muppet needs

Effective cool breeze Opened windows admit air Chaotic chimes ring

Another scorcher Concrete jungle burns hotter Windows up, air on

Scorcher coming up Triple digits, stay inside Excuse for ice cream

Nighttime thunderstorms Flashes of light, deep rumbles Refreshing raindrops

Only six months away Jolly fat man and reindeer If it would just snow

Will umbrella help? Drink tasty with or without Pina colada

Cool desserts are great Whether the world burns right now Or during winter

Off sprayed on the arms Blood-sucking insects begone Buffet I am not

Not long is the night Brief respite from the sun’s rays Starry sky wonder

Enjoyable vacay Lots to do and things to see Never long enough