#Great Balsam Mountains

[oldnorthcarolina]

Ghost plant — Black Balsam, North Carolina — Summer 2024

[thorsenmark]

The Clouds Wandered Amongst the Mountains (Blue Ridge Parkway) by Mark Stevens Via Flickr: While at a roadside pullout along the Blue Ridge Parkway with a view looking to the northeast to ridges and peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains and Balsam Mountain with Potato Hill Bald, Horse Ridge, and Locust Knob (based on PeakVisor app on my iPhone). This stop is listed as Ballhoot Scar. What drew me into this setting was the low clouds that were present along the mountainside that morning. Most of the day along the Blue Ridge Parkway had been off and on drizzling and rainy, so seeing this setting with the low clouds, allowed me to focus on the ridges and peaks in composing this image. I later worked with control points in DxO PhotoLab 7 and then made some adjustments to bring out the contrast, saturation and brightness I wanted for the final image.

[herpsandbirds]

Black-chinned Red Salamander (Pseudotriton ruber schencki), family Plethodontidae, Great Balsam Mountains, North Carolina, USA

photograph by Frank Gebhard

[theesirenteller]

𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐫

【Description】

Set in season four of Good Girls; Epiphany Martinez is a freshman in college, heavily into the party scene. she lives her life on the edge with Molly under her tongue. when her co-worker, Annie puts her onto a new dealer attraction blooms, and the lines between business & pleasure blur.

════ ⋆♱⛧⋆ ════

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐧𝐞 ♦ 𝓔𝔂𝓮𝓼 𝓞𝓯 𝓟𝓻𝓮𝔂 ♦ Masterlist

"Mierda" Epiphany groaned as she pulled her face back from the drool-drenched pillow. The blaring of her alarm stopped as she crashed her fist against it. 3 p.m. it read. "Fuck!" she quickly shot out of her mountain of covers and rushed to the bathroom. The process of freshening up and getting herself decent for auditions felt like a blur. She hadn't even gotten a proper breakfast; just stale nachos and salsa. One minute she was in her shared bathroom and the next she was rushing into Sweet P's gentlemen's club which was located eight blocks from her apartment.

"Well if it isn't my fave party animal, my main squeeze." Annie Boland greeted as she approached the hungover college student, "You look like shit, dude." 

"Oh I feel like shit too, trust me." Epiphany replied after she caught her breath. "Sorry I'm lat-"

"Auditions are over." 

Epiphany was cut off by an uppity voice that she wasn't familiar with. Which caused her to turn her attention towards it. The college freshmen came face to face with a heavy busted red-haired woman who looked to be in her mid-forties. Her aesthetic screamed Stepford wife. Maybe it was her cardigan or her layered sidebang hairstyle. whatever it was, she just screamed suburbia.

"Aw Beth come on, let her audition," Annie replied with a groan.

"No." Beth said quickly before looking at Epiphany up and down, "Sorry, we've already picked our set of girls."

Epiphany scoffed with a roll of her eyes before she snickered "Oh you mean Gene's ol girls? Good luck with that." Her attention shifted over to Annie once again, "See you around Annie." and with that turned on her heel.

"And you think you can do better, kid?" How old are you? another voice called out causing epiphany to look over her shoulder.

"She's from Vegas, of course, She can do better, Ruby!" Annie vouched. 

She hadn't known Epiphany very long, only two months to be exact but Annie had made great friends with the college student. The two clicked instantly after meeting and chit-chatting at the mini-mart. The two bonded over liking balsamic vinegar and onions over their french fries.  

The hefty-set umber-skinned woman sighed before she turned her attention to the strawberry blonde, "Let her audition Beth. The more women that can bring in profits the better." 

Beth pursed her lips as she sucked in a scowl. She looked between Ruby and Annie for a few moments before shifting her attention over to Epiphany. "How old are you?" 

A look of amusement flashed across Epiphany's face as she watched the women in front of her, "I'm twenty-two." she replied before asking, "Have any of you got any dancing experience? Ever worked in show business or the strip club before."

"No, of course not!" Beth snapped, "What does that have to do with anything?" she proceeded to ask.

Epiphany took a few steps forward as she shrugged her shoulders," It means you aren't qualified to be hosting auditions. And I doubt you even enjoy going to strip clubs to watch the performances."

"I have," Annie spoke up with a grin as she raised her hand. "Have you guys ever seen a pair of boobies covered in glitter bounce? looks like two light bulbs from heaven." 

Epiphany eyed Annie and shook her head as she bit back laughter. " A glorious sight ain't it?" she goofed. her expression turned serious as she then turned her attention back towards Annie's busty sister. "How about I just perform opening night and if you magically don't like it, I'll leave." she propositioned.

"That's not a bad idea Beth. I'm tired and need to get home and start on dinner." Ruby spoke up. The mother of two already had a bias towards strip clubs and sitting in one for the last two hours made her skin crawl.

Beth's lips formed into a straight line as she scrunched her nose and closed her eyes. Her fists balled up at her sides as she rumbled out an exaggerated groan. "Fine!", the moment she opened her eyes and shot Epiphany a slight glare. "Be there an hour before and not a minute later." The college student paid the strawberry-haired woman no mind and instead smiled when Annie cheered and clapped. "Woohoo! Yes!" Annie cheered before high-fiving Epiphany with both hands. 'We're totally gonna celebrate after…I say Chick-fil-A"

♡𓆪𓆩♡𓆪𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪𓆩♡𓆪☆♡𓆪𓆩♡⊹˚.♡

Opening night came quicker than Beth and the girls would've hoped. Beth had been betting on Rio not showing up but unfortunately for her…he did. He and Mick had arrived just a few moments after the club got packed with eager men who were ready to spend their money. The mother of two did her best to ignore him as she sipped on her strawberry margarita. Her shoulders relaxed as the vodka settled her down. Friskily she adjusted her the cleavage of her v-neck blouse lower than its proper fit before her green eyes settled over to where he sat. Her breath hitched when their eyes met. He had been already looking at her when she turned to look at him. Rio was the type of man to cause shivers to run across her skin. Her palms grew sweaty and the valley between her thighs grew even more moist. She couldn't help but shift in her seat.

Meanwhile, Epiphany had arrived late with rollers in her hair while dressed in a fluffy pink 'Playboy Bunny' robe as she rushed into the club through the back door. Speed walking to the locker room, her fuschia-pink kitten heels clicked loudly behind her. Bags under her eyes from cramming in back-to-back study sessions after a long night to early morning house party hopping. The girl was beaten but that was nothing that her favorite concealer couldn't fix. Once she'd removed her robe and carried her Prada cosmetic bag to the lined vanity in the dressing room; Epiphany worked quickly in the mirror to apply shimmery fuschia and gold eyeshadow.. She then sprayed her thick thighs and perky breasts with glittery golden bronzer. A bubbly voice quickly caught her attention causing Epiphany to look up into the mirror. A topless brunette smiled widely at her. "Hey, what's up?" Epiphany greeted her.

"Hi! I'm Krystal." She grinned, "You must be the new girl Annie's been talking about. Definitely Gorg, you're totally giving Selma Hayak vibes from that vamp movie. Beth didn't think you'd show. She and Annie wouldn't stop fussing over it, total bummer."

The woman was an endless chatterbox and Epiphany wasn't able to get a word in. So, instead, she focused on undoing her rollerset and teasing out her curls until she achieved her desired look. As she switched her kitten heels for stilettos the beat of her introductory song started to play and Epiphany sashayed her way onto the stage. The place was packed with men. 

Their lust-filled eyes fueled her ego. The coke-bottle-shaped Latina swayed her hips and arched her back to wiggle her ass to the crowd. With a swift motion Epiphany wrapped her right leg around the pole as she grabbed onto her breasts. She swirled down along the pole as if she were licking along a lollipop. and as the beat of the music sped up her negligee tugged off. The roaring of the crowd and the rain of money arose as she fondled her breasts and rocked her hips against the pole. Her bra dropped the moment the beat did. Epiphany worked her body around the pole like a snake. Slow and sultry. Her plump ass in the air generously jiggled towards the crowd like jelly freshly spread on toast. The hibiscus scent of her hair flowed throughout the air as she flipped her bombshell curls around.

"Jesus, she's pretty vulgar huh?" Beth grimaces to Annie and Ruby.

'Dude she's hot." Annie sighed with dreamy eyes.

When Epiphany flipped her head back and eyed the crowd she was met with dark brown eyes. To put it plainly, The man seated at the back table was devilishly handsome. She could feel his eyes on her. Fuck he was hot. His type of hot stood out in any crowd. A heavy hitter. Epiphany wasn't like most girls growing up who fawned over pop stars and Disney stars. No. She yearned for men like Tony Montana. Her life changed the day she saw Scarface at the tender age of twelve. Men with power, drugs, and the promise of a diamond-studded lifestyle were what fueled her. She yearned to spread her legs like butterfly wings for him.

Curving the corner of her lips, Epiphany sent him a sultry smirk. Swirling around the pole she stood on her right leg as she slowly rose her right in the air. Empathizing the curve of her hips she buckled forward with her hand gliding down her sweaty, glitter-glistening skin. Her gaze locked into his as she slipped her hand into her shimmery lavender g-string. A teasing peak at her waxed kitty kat as she rolled and shook her hips. The way the eagle-neck-tatted gangster bit his lip as he watched her made her pussy wet as she toyed with her strings. She yearned to spread her butterfly wings for him.

Epiphany had blown him a kiss directly before twirling off stage as their eyes met once more. His cocky grin made her heart flutter with glee. "Omg that was fucking awesome girl!" Krystal squealed as soon as Epiphany had gotten into the dressing room. "Can you show me how to do that butt jiggle thingy you do? Looks wild." 

Snickering, Epiphany nodded as she went to retrieve a water bottle from the mini fridge,"Yeah sure". she replied breathlessly before quenching her thirst. The two women exchanged numbers before they'd gone back to occupying themselves. Epiphany freshened up in the bathroom with her feminine products before she had changed into a mini wine-red babydoll dress. 

She reapplied her lip gloss as she made her way outside to the bar. The dancer barely made it to one of the stools before being engulfed into a tight hug by Annie,``Dude that was epic! you gotta show me some of the moves to work on Kevin." The youngest boland sibling took a seat on the bar stools beside Epiphany.

"Ew Annie, not the homeless dude."Epiphany grimaced, "Maybe we can teach him those moves so he can get on the pole and earn some cash."

"You know that'd actually be pretty hot?" Annie agreed with a laugh before she ordered a beer.

Her eyes skimmed around the crowded area until her attention narrowed in on the handsome gangster conversing with Beth. Fires of desire flamed her eyes, matching the fire in between her thighs, "Who's that?" she asked with a soft nudge to Annie's shoulder. Beth's sister followed Epiphany's gaze, her nose slightly scrunching. 

"Oh that's Rio." Annie proceeds to take a sip of her beer, "Or as i say gang friend. Well…my gang  friend. Beth's kinda dating him now,,.unofficially."

"Yeah right." Epiphany snickered before taking a sip from her Corona, "She's way out his league." her chocolate brown eyes ranked his slim frame. He looked so delicious in black. She  wanted to just run her tongue across his neck tattoo.

"Hey. What happened to feminism? dude? Us girls have to stitch together." Annie frowned, "That isn't nice, Beth's a total milf."

Epiphany let out a melodic sinister laugh as she flipped her curls over her shoulder, "Feminism is a fucking joke Annie, No offense to your sister. But no one hates women more than other women. It's like in our DNA to be territorial and competitive." she took another sip of her beer before proceeding,"He's simply too divine for me not to indulge in." sighing dreamily she looked at Rio once more.

Annie kept quiet at first before her eyes widened, "You're gonna seriously get at him?"

"And swallow him whole." Epiphany winked before slipping out of her seat.

Making her way through the crowd she could feel eyes on her as she briefly passed by both RIo and Beth. The sound of the music and chit chatter died down as she walked down the hall that led to the dressing rooms. Her clicky footsteps were masked by heavy footsteps.

"Hey superstar…that was some performance." His voice was smokey despite his arrogantly teasing tone. Deep, aged like fine whiskey. His touch was warm despite his fingers only brushing at her wrist. Which caused her to turn around to face him. The two eyed one another like two lions who'd caught their prey. Under the blue lights the mutual feeling of raw-primal desire made the air grow thick. Hotter. 

"Well I had a captivating audience to motivate me." Epiphany replied as she looked up at him. Breathing in his scent as he got closer; she couldn't but breathe him in. He smelt of a deep and rich musky aroma like cuban tobacco yet also sweet. Like vanilla. A milky vanilla similar to that was soft and comforting. Similar to the scent of coconut milk put through a milk frother

"Oh yeah I bet you did." he let out a rasped chuckle as his eyes flickered from her eyes down to her body. "What's your name?"

"Epiphany."

"Your mama gave you a beautiful name, Epiphany." The way her name rolled off his tongue like smooth butter made her want to come undone.

"Not much else." The light in her eyes dimmed for a split second before she smiled at him, "What's yours? Bet I could guess."

"Be my guest." he nodded.

"Rio." His name sensually purred off her lips.

"I see you've been asking about me then." Rio let out a deeply rumbling laugh as he edged closer to her. Her chest pressed against a few inches above his waist.

"Nah I'm just psychic." Epiphany teased.

The two shared a chuckle before he licked his blush-pink lips. "So, you need a ride?"

"On top of you or in your car?" Her challenging yet teasing banter caused Rio's left brow to rise. And nothing was more alluring than his laughter she was convinced.

"Both."

No other words were uttered nor needed to be said after that. Ephipany allowed herself to be whisked away by him. The pair left the back entrance and got into his Benz truck. A night of their bodies saying everything words weren't good enough to say was in store.

♡𓆪𓆩♡𓆪𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪𓆩♡𓆪☆♡𓆪𓆩♡⊹˚.♡

@darqchilddaydreamz @danzer8705

[kimberly40]

Western North Carolina generally consists of 29 counties, that when combined form a total regional area of roughly 13,000 square miles and is roughly the size of the state of Massachusetts.

There are 82 mountain peaks between 5,000 and 6,000 feet in elevation in western North Carolina and 43 peaks rise to over 6,000 feet.

Among the subranges of the Appalachian Mountains located in western North Carolina are the Great Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge Mountains, South Mountains, Brushy Mountains, Great Balsam Mountains, Great Craggy Mountains, the Plott Balsams, and the Black Mountains.

Mount Mitchell, in the Black Mountains, is, at 6,684 feet, the highest point in eastern North America.

The major rivers in the region include the French Broad River, Nolichucky River, Watauga River, Little Tennessee River, and Hiwassee River flowing into the Tennessee River valley; the New River flowing into the Ohio River valley; and the headwaters and upper valleys of the Catawba River, Yadkin River, Broad River, and Saluda River flowing through the foothills towards the Atlantic.

The Eastern Continental Divide runs through the region, dividing Tennessee-bound streams from those flowing through the Carolinas.

The counties commonly included in the region are as follows:

Alleghany County

Ashe County

Avery County

Buncombe County

Burke County

Caldwell County

Cherokee County

Clay County

Graham County

Haywood County

Henderson County

Jackson County

Macon County

Madison County

McDowell County

Mitchell County

Polk County

Rutherford County

Swain County

Transylvania County

Watauga County

Wilkes County

Yancey County

-Other counties that fall under various definitions of Western North Carolina include: Alexander County, Catawba County, Cleveland County, Surry County and Yadkin County.

*Pictured is the Linville Gorge in Burke County, North Carolina by Wildwood Blessings Photography

[emilybeemartin]

Inktober Days 28-31

Day 28: Sparkle

When people ask me which national park I've worked in is my favorite, I have a diplomatic answer. They're all different! Yellowstone is never boring, Glacier is visually stunning. But Great Smoky Mountains? Great Smokies is home. It was my first park, even before Yellowstone--I was brought on as a summer intern in 2010, and it set the course for my whole career onward.

Where other national parks trade in dramatic grandeur, Great Smokies offers a more intimate beauty. The pale pops of Catawba rhododendron blossoms in the dark forest. The squiggle of a spotted salamander in dewy moss. The first flush of red on the autumn slopes. The Christmas-tree perfume of the balsam firs at high elevation. 

But some of the most special things to me are the fireflies. The secret of the synchronous fireflies has trickled out, and now people flock to see them in late spring, flashing in coordinated laser light shows. My absolute favorites are the blue ghost fireflies, which glow a moonlight-blue, without blinking, and drift a few feet above the ground. On a dark, quiet evening, it's the single most magical sight I've ever seen. So magical I built a whole fantasy system around them in my first novel, Woodwalker.

Day 29: Massive

There are so many parks whose scale simply can't be appreciated in photos. The yawning chasm of the Grand Canyon. The looming summits of Grand Teton. The plunging valleys of Glacier. And the massive span and height of sequoia trees.

Though this is a purely American tree, I've only experienced them abroad, when I lived in New Zealand. A short walk away from my student flat was a beautiful botanical garden, and I was amazed to find a grove of sequoias growing there. I greeted them like compatriots, foreigners in a faraway land. I visited them often and knew someday I needed to visit their cousins on their home turf. Like my fixation on Olympic National Park, I've frequently found myself plotting the drive from my Rocky Mountain jobs to the closest parks of sequoias and redwoods. I'll get there, one day.

Day 30: Rush

Yosemite—the rush of history toward the riches of the west, the rush of visitors in the valley, the rush of air through climbers’ ropes, the rush to protect endangered natural spaces. But to me, no homage to Yosemite is complete without rushing water. Plunging waterfalls, rivers foaming with spring melt, frigid banks piled with frazil ice--- this park sings with the power of water.

Day 31: Fire

We end Inktober 2023 in Hawai‛i Volcanoes National Park, a place where fire, earth, and water all meld together. At first I picked this park simply because it fit the prompt, but as I did some research, I realized how fitting it is to end this month-long celebration of national parks here. Built into the management policies for Hawai‛i Volcanoes is the practice of ho‛okupu, the action of creating growth through chanting or offerings. As Huihui Kanehele-Mossman, Kumu Hula and Executive Director at Edith Kanaka‛ole Foundation, puts it:

“[Ho‛okupu] is not showing gratitude… it’s a recognition between you and the place… that you are present there in order to have an exchange—an equal exchange between you and the place.”

As park rangers, we’re faced with tangible reminders of degradation every day—past, present, and future—in things like the violent history of land theft, the tenacious grip of invasive species, and the looming consequences of climate change. It’s easy for rangers to view both ourselves and the visiting public as interlopers and invaders, capable of only destruction, a force to be managed and mitigated.

But we’re not. That same force that enables us to destroy also enables us to restore, grow, and create. And as Robin Wall Kimmerer discusses in Braiding Sweetgrass, humans shouldn’t consider ourselves mere intruders in natural spaces. We evolved alongside nature. We do belong in it, and it relies on our power and gentleness as much as we rely on it.

Even beyond that, national parks are human-created spaces, with human boundaries, roads, infrastructure, and patterns. We have to be involved with them. We have to view ourselves as an integral part of their wellbeing, an equal partner, and a force for good, or we risk losing them to sheer indifference.

“If you don’t have anything else to give to a place, give your voice.”

-Huihui Kanehele-Mossman

Thanks for traveling along with me on this journey through our national parks! I hope you have an autumn full of peace and purpose!

[project-sekai-facts]

any chance you happen to have a list of flowers in everyones 1st year birthday cards?

i just got these off the wiki so apologies if any of this is wrong

Virtual Singer

Miku: sunflowers, gentians, hibiscus, chinese milk-vetch (on her dress)

Rin & Len: pansies, lady slipper orchid (on blazer)

Luka: grape hyacinth, sagebrush buttercups, society garlic flowers

MEIKO: egyptian star cluster, moss roses

KAITO: hyacinths, snowflake flowers

Leo/need

Ichika: geraniums, creeping zinnias (also some small flowers I couldn't identify)

Saki: dogwood flowers, white clovers

Honami: gerberas, chocolate cosmos, multiflora rose

Shiho: magnolias, violets (on her accessories)

MORE MORE JUMP!

Minori: daisy fleabanes, scotch broom, blue milkweed

Haruka: yellow cosmos, spider flowers

Airi: star jasmines

Shizuku: strawberry begonias, blossoms (the wiki said this was firethorn but imo it looks closer to some sort of blossom. the leaves aren't the right shape)

Vivid BAD SQUAD

Kohane: persian buttercup/ranunculus, iceland poppies

An: larkspur, tickseed

Akito: elatior begonias, lemon flowers

Toya: persian buttercup/ranunculus, yuzu flower (on blazer), pansies, wisteria (in the background)

WonderlandsxShowtime

Tsukasa: yellow tulips, persian violets, peonies

Emu: sea asters, skunkvine, chrysanthemum (ogiku style)

Nene: bougainvilleas/paperflowers, sunflowers, prairie gentians

Rui: common vervains/verbena, astrantia/great masterwort, hypericum erectum (a type of St John's Wort native to Japan, China and Korea. It doesn't have a common name)

25-ji, Nightcord de.

Kanade: crocuses, winter daphne

Mafuyu: cape marguerite, japanese rowan flowers, and i believe plumeria rubra

Ena: mountain laurels, baby blue eyes

Mizuki: bottle gourd flower, st john's wort, garden balsams. i'm not sure what the flower in their hair is, possibly some sort of lily?

the flowers are mostly the same on the second set of cards, though some are changed (notably Len who now has different flowers to Rin), and a few others gain or lose a flower or two. Tsukasa has fuchsias, An has paperflowers, airi i think has blossom and ena i think has yellow lupins now and that's as far as my flower knowledge goes.

[thesimulationswarm]

Balsam Chapter 2: Knife to the Jugular

This is a story about trauma. What trauma does to a person, and what trauma does to a community. And how, in the midst of it, people find their way to joy, delight— even love.

Pairing: Joel Miller x original female character Summary: After the events of tlou, Joel and Ellie try to establish a “normal life” in Jackson, but neither of them are any good at normal. A town doctor tries to care for residents who have experienced unspeakable trauma, and struggles to overcome her own past at the same time. Joel finds himself drawn to her, as their lives become increasingly intertwined. Meanwhile, outside Jackson, troubling things are happening... Rating: explicit 18+ MDNI Word count: 6k Warnings: slow burn (there will be smut eventually), canon-typical violence, descriptions of medical situations, trauma/PTSD symptoms, description of a dead body, some sexual harassment, sexual dream and thoughts about sex and masturbation (m), Ellie and Joel figuring out how to be family, Tommy and Joel figuring out how to be family, angst

Series masterlist

Joel had known she’d be pissed, but didn’t realize she’d be this pissed. The look she was giving him as he finished packing his bag was downright hateful. He looked away, concentrated on tightly rolling a change of clothes to fit in the bottom of the pack.

“Ellie, I told you it was gonna be a regular thing,” he said, trying to keep his voice stern. She needed to understand that this was how it was going to be, and he was afraid if she saw him soften she’d never let up the pressure.

“Patrol every week is not just a regular thing, Joel. It’s a fucking job.”

“So what? Everybody in Jackson has a job.”

“Yeah, like baking bread or feeding sheep. Jobs that are, you know, actually in Jackson.”

He sighed. As usual, she had his number: he didn’t want to be in Jackson, and he was doing what he could to get away. 

But he also very much wanted her to be in Jackson, where he knew she was safe. Where she could do normal things, like go to school and make friends. Hell, maybe even get a boyfriend. Be a kid, in other words.

He looked at her, standing in the doorway of his room, arms crossed over her chest and jaw set murderously. She was backlit by the hallway light, which caught gold on the strands of hair that had come loose from her ponytail. Half angel, half juvenile delinquent.

“Why can’t I just go with you?”

He shoved the clothes into his bag and gave her an exasperated look. “Ellie, we’ve been over this. No kids on patrol.”

“I’m not just some kid,” she spat. “I’ve survived out there with you!”

His mind stuttered with sudden images of what was out there: a rain of gunfire, hordes of infected, blood on the snow. He shut the thoughts down, forced his face into a mask of careful neutrality before meeting her eyes. He would never, never let her get so close to danger again.

“You are a kid, Ellie. You belong in Jackson, where it’s safe. Go make friends with someone your own age.”

She slammed the door so hard he could feel the frame of the house rattle.

They were meeting at the stables to tack up their horses and go over the route for the day. It was well below freezing this early in the morning and the muddy ground under her boots was frozen in ruts and craters. Nina looked up at the sky as she sidled through the barn door; in the west, the last stars were fading into a violet smudge against the horizon. 

She was pleased to see Joel Miller there along with Tommy— he struck her as someone more than capable of handling threats. And he was quiet, which she considered a great asset in a patrol partner. She left Jackson rarely, although she loved the rough mountain landscape around the town. When she was out there she wanted a little space in which to appreciate it.

She was less pleased to see Isaac. She recognized his rangy frame as she approached the group. He still— at the age of twenty-two— carried himself like he hadn’t grown into those long limbs and didn’t know what to do with them. Isaac was a sweet kid, but he was soft, and lacked common sense. Worse still, he was an incorrigible talker. She knew Tommy was trying to train him up, get him more used to patrols. A laudable goal, but she’d rather not be personally involved in it.

“What’s up, Doc?” Isaac called out to her, then laughed at his own joke. She nodded to him, then to Tommy and Joel.

Tommy gave her a close-lipped smile, but he looked a little uneasy, his eyes tired. Poor guy probably didn’t want to be leaving Maria, who was too far along to be going on patrols. How would genial, steady Tommy deal with fatherhood, she wondered? Hopefully better than Derek Starkey, with his anxiety and desperation and the problem she still hadn’t found a way to unknot. 

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you go on patrol before,” Isaac remarked, materializing at her side as she brushed Marlene, her favorite horse. “So how come we lucked out today?”

“Usually there’s too much for me to do in town. But I need to harvest some plants,” she replied. Marlene nickered softly as she swept the curry brush down her flank. 

“Sweet! A foraging trip!” She kept her eyes trained on her horse and prayed that he’d be quiet once they hit the trail.

Maria had given the girl a few hours before going over there. Figured that if she had a chance to calm down it would go better. Joel had warned her this morning that Ellie was not too pleased about him leaving again. She was unsurprised— the girl had a temper, and living with Joel was not exactly the best setting in which to learn health coping skills.

Now she was standing on the front steps, growing increasingly inpatient as she waited for Ellie to answer her knocks.

“Ellie!” She pounded again at the door, standing on her toes to peer through the window. It was too dark inside to see anything. 

“I’m way too pregnant to be standing out here in this weather, girl,” she yelled. “If you don’t open this time, I’m going to leave, but I’ll be coming back with someone to help me take the door off its hinges.”

Finally, Maria heard the sound of footsteps approaching, followed by the deadbolt sliding back. Then Ellie was standing there in the door frame, glaring daggers at her.

“Fine, I’m here. Now what?”

Maria gave her what she hoped read as a sympathetic smile, although at this point she was mostly feeling exasperated by the drama. “I know you’re upset about—”

“I’m not upset,” Ellie interrupted brusquely. “I was just in the back room and didn’t hear you.”

The girl was obviously full of shit, but Maria wasn’t going to fight with her on this. It wasn’t worth the time. Instead, she turned back toward her house and beckoned at Ellie to follow her.

“C’mon over. I made lunch.”

Ellie followed her, literally dragging her feet as she walked. Maria sighed. She wasn’t exactly thrilled about the next two days herself. Last time Joel had gone on patrol, Tommy’d been at home, and he’d put on his best ‘fun uncle’ routine for Ellie. It had worked, at least to an extent: Ellie’d been irritable, but she hadn’t locked herself in any houses. Now with Tommy and Joel both gone it was just the two of them, and she had no one to give her a break when Ellie wore her patience thin.

They sat at the table in her kitchen, and Maria ladled them both big bowls of soup. There was bread, fresh from the bakery this morning, and a dish of sweet cream butter. Her mouth watered: she was hungry pretty much all the time these days.

After a few minutes of silent eating, Maria finally spoke.

“You know, I wasn’t happy about Tommy going on this patrol.”

Ellie gave her a pained look. “Is this your attempt at female bonding?”

Maria was torn between wanting to laugh and wanting to slap the girl. Ellie seemed to have that effect on her— she was young, yes, but she had a sharpness about her that Maria knew not to underestimate.

“No, just saying what I’m thinking. I wish he was back here with me, or that I could be out there with him.”

She didn’t mention that she was particularly alarmed at Tommy being out there with Joel. That she hated how her husband seemed to be less of himself when he was in the shadow of his big brother. She used to just worry about Tommy getting hurt when he went on patrol. Now, since Joel and Ellie had shown back up in Jackson, she’d started worrying about Tommy doing something he’d regret forever. Different ways of losing him.

“You’re due in, like, two months,” Ellie said quietly, looking down at the table. “You’ll be back out on patrol soon. But you don’t let kids go on patrol until they’re eighteen here. I can’t wait four fucking years.” The pain in her voice was clear, and Maria fought the urge to reach out and clasp Ellie’s hand. The girl was too feral to take that well.

“You’re right. It’s a long time.” Maria was quiet for a minute, looking out the window. The sun was bright, climbing into the crystalline blue of the sky. “You can’t go on patrol, but there are a lot of other jobs in Jackson that you would be good at. If you want to show that you can be independent.”

“That I would be good at?” Ellie asked, dubiously.

Maria smiled. “Like working on the farm. I’ve seen how well you interact with the animals.” 

It was early afternoon when they reached the Snake River and stopped to eat. The kid had been talking for almost all of the goddamn ride, mostly at Nina, who he peppered with questions.  Joel was relieved it wasn’t him on the receiving end, but it was still getting old.

“You’re not from Wyoming originally, are you, Doc?” Isaac asked, between bites of his sandwich.

“No,” said Nina flatly. “Indiana.”

“Indiana!” Isaac spoke like this was an exciting fucking answer.  

“She grew up in an Indiana town,” he began to sing, eyes trained on the doctor. “Had a good lookin’ mama who never was around.”

The kid had a surprisingly nice tenor. Nina looked astonished enough by his singing voice that, for a brief moment, the annoyance left her face. But now was the time to stop singing, quit while he was ahead— and of course, Isaac did not. 

It was painful to watch.

“She grew up tall and she grew up right—” here he paused to waggle his eyebrows suggestively— “With them Indiana boys on them Indiana nights! Well, she moved out here—”

“Now that’s where you’re wrong,” Tommy jumped in, putting the kid out of his misery. “Doc clearly didn’t grow up tall.” He kept his voice light, but Joel could see the strain on his features. His little brother’d always been a peacekeeper, and he was clearly regretting putting this patrol team together.

“No, I wouldn’t say ‘tall’ is something I’m known for,” Nina agreed dryly, avoiding Isaac’s eyes.

Tommy slapped his hands against his thighs and stood, in the universal signal for we better get moving.

“Anyways, we don’t have all day to sit around and sing. This is where we split up. I’m goin’ to head up the mountain a little ways—” he pointed off in the distance—“on a spur trail where I can get a better view of the valley. Nina will stay down here and cut willow branches. Joel, why don’t you stay with her and Isaac, you come with me.”

Joel took his time finishing his lunch while Tommy and Isaac mounted their horses and sauntered off toward the thicker woods. They were well out of hearing range when he stood, brushing the crumbs off his jeans.

“I guess Tommy didn’t want you to murder the kid before we’re even halfway through.”

Nina snorted. “Just as well. I don’t think he’ll let me come back on patrol if I kill his little protege.”

Joel fed and watered the horses while Nina set to work, hacking small branches off of the willow thickets that dotted the shore. He looked her way every few minutes, partially to make sure all was still well, but also out of curiosity. 

He noticed she was selecting younger, thinner branches, and skipping over the dense and woody ones. She also seemed to be avoiding the branches that were already sprouting soft leaves, which surprised him— he would’ve thought it was the leaves she was after. She worked quickly, economically, her small frame sliding from bush to bush.

As he was finishing up with the horses, she turned and caught him watching her. He looked away quickly, but not before he saw a wary irritation flicker across her features. She’d put up with enough staring today already, he supposed.

Well, unlike Isaac, he could make himself useful.

“Can I help?”

She stopped what she was doing and turned completely now, as he walked in her direction. “I can go downstream and work on that patch,” he added, pointing a little ways off along the bank. Didn’t want her to think he was going to cling to her like the kid.

“Sure,” she said, and held up the branch she’d just cut to show him. “I only take two or three from each plant, or else they can die. These younger branches are the best— make your cut right at the node so they have a chance to regrow.”

He nodded. “And only branches that aren’t budding yet, right?”

She tilted her head, mildly surprised. “Have you harvested willow bark before?”

“Oh, uh, no.” Joel looked down at her pile of branches. So it was the bark she was gathering, then. “Just noticed, that’s all.”

She inspected the bush in front of her. “It’s a narrow window of time. You want the sap to be flowing, and they can be getting catkins,” she explained, gesturing at the velvety gray spikes that were emerging from the plant. “But no leaves. Once those start growing, the concentration of salicin drops.”

He’d been nodding along as she spoke, but lost her on that last bit. He wasn’t going to ask though— he’d give her a break from questions. Joel trudged down along the snowy bank, stopping in front of a small willow tree and unsheathing his knife.

Once he got into the rhythm of it, cutting the branches was satisfying, meditative work. His hands were cold and stiff in the March air, but the movement kept the rest of him warm enough. He could hear the river flowing behind him, the birds chattering in the forested area ahead. The satisfying shick of his knife, as he swung his arm in an easy rhythm.

He’d been at it for about an hour when he heard something new— hoofbeats, fast, coming from the mountainside. He moved quickly back toward where Nina was working, half crouched to conceal himself behind the brush, swinging his rifle around and lifting it in the direction of the sound. 

If it was Tommy and Isaac, something had happened to make them break into a gallop. And if it was someone else, who knows what kind of trouble they’d be.

As the horse grew closer, he heard the whistle: long and low, long and low, then fast and high. Their signal for ‘all clear.’ His let out a sigh and lowered the gun, just as Isaac rode into sight. He watched the kid approach, waiting for Tommy to follow him out of the trees— but Isaac was alone. Something was definitely not right.

He turned to Nina— she looked as discomfited as he felt. She, too, had a hand on her gun, eyes trained on Isaac as he approached.

“Dr. Connor!” He hollered, a few yards away now. “We found a body. Tommy wants you to go take a look and see if you can figure out how long it’s been there.”

Two figures were in the field in front of the barn, spraying caked mud off of horse tack. Ellie recognized one of them as Old Michael— so called to distinguish him from Big Michael, who was half his age and twice his size. He was small but tough-looking, with a walrus mustache that put Joel’s to shame.

“What can I help you with, chickadee?” Old Michael drawled.

“I want to help look after the animals,” Ellie replied, trying to sound sure of herself.

Old Michael nodded. “Back in that shed is where the kids hang out.” He pointed to a metal building on the far side of a sheep enclosure. “The teenagers handle the dogs.”

“The… dogs?” Ellie replied. This was not what she was expecting.

“Chuy’s trying to train up some new puppies. Cute little things.”

She hesitated. Joel would flip if he found out she was helping with the cordyceps-sniffing dogs. She still didn’t understand why that dog hadn’t sniffed her out that day, when they were surrounded and outgunned in the snowy field. But she knew it wasn’t just a fluke— she’d seen it around town twice, let it sniff her and lick her hands. Each time she waited, expecting this to be the moment she’d have to go fucking kung-fu and kill her way out of Jackson.

But the dog never once alerted on her. If it was going to happen, it would’ve by now.

And also, fuck Joel. He couldn’t leave her behind in this town every week and decide what she got to do and not do while she was stuck here. Go make friends with someone your own age. Ellie didn’t know how to tell Joel that she hadn’t been very good at that, even when she was surrounded by people her own age. Most people her age fucking sucked. But that didn’t entirely stop her from wanting to try.

Ellie headed across the cold field and opened the door of the shed. She blinked a few times to let her eyes adjust to the dimness, and then she saw them: four impossibly soft-looking, black and gold puppies, chasing each other around a metal enclosure. 

“Oh my god,” she breathed, kneeling down to get on their level.

“Pretty fucking adorable, right?” She swiveled her head to see a girl sitting on a hay bale and a boy leaning against the wall. They looked familiar— she’d seen the boy walking the dog around town and the girl at the dining hall. The boy was tall, with floppy black hair and a slightly stooped frame. The girl had a wide mouth and straight, glossy brown hair. Her coat was flung open and Ellie could see the tight white shirt she wore underneath. 

“I’m Brandy,” she said, flashing a dazzling smile.

“Ellie. I’m new to Jackson.” She stood and took a few steps to join them.

“I’ve seen you around town,” the boy said. His face was serious but not unfriendly. “I’m Chuy.”

“You’re the dog guy, right?”

This elicited something close to a smile. “Yeah, I’m the main dog trainer. I learned from my dad.”

“That’s cool,” Ellie said, shoving her hands in her pockets. Fuck, that sounded lame. She wondered how old Chuy and Brandy were— they looked a little older than her, maybe, but not much. “I, uh, was hoping I could learn how to help with them.”

“We can always use extra help. Come on, we’ll show you around.” Brandy jumped off the hay bale and led Ellie to a side room full of supplies. She explained the feeding system, the process of “housebreaking” the puppies, and how they cleaned their pen. Brandy was enthusiastic and foul-mouthed about everything. Chuy followed along, occasionally jumping in with his measured voice to explain or elaborate.

Finally Brandy turned to a small refrigerator in the corner. “This is where we keep the most important shit in here.”

Chuy opened the fridge, revealing a wire rack with several small glass vials, each containing an amber-colored liquid. He lifted one gingerly, and held it out in front of Ellie’s face. His eyes glittered.

“It’s urine, from someone a few hours after they were bit on the leg. Before they changed.”

“What the fuck!” Ellie stepped backward, almost tripping over a food bowl.

Brandy threw her head back and laughed. Ellie looked from her to Chuy, and from Chuy to the vial, and back to Brandy. Both of them were laughing now, and Ellie felt a flush of blood to her face. She put her hands on her hips and narrowed her eyes.

“Okay, but why do you have a vial of almost-infected piss?”

“This stuff is more valuable than gold,” Chuy explained with a dramatic air. “When we train the dogs to recognize this smell, they can detect an infected person before they’re full blown. And they can tell us.”

“And how the fuck did you get it?”

“It’s from the FEDRA medical facility outside of San Francisco. There’s this guy Mo who steals from them and a bunch of other places. He travels through here a few times a year and trades with us,” Chuy explained.

“He gets all the best medications for Dr. Connor. She’s waiting for him to come back because she’s almost out of some important supplies,” Brandy added.

Chuy pushed her arm playfully. “She thinks she’s hot shit because she’s Dr. Connor’s little assistant.”

“You’ll be happy I know how to fix broken bones when Clemons catches you with his porn collection and smashes your fucking nose in,” Brandy retorted. Chuy gave her a censorious look.

“Why does FEDRA keep infected pee? Do they use it to make their detectors?” Ellie felt her heart hammering against her ribcage. The FEDRA detectors, unlike the dog, had caught her. What if the dogs just needed more training to figure it out?

“Nah, they keep all kinds of infected people locked up there to study them. But their detectors just use antibodies. All infected people produce them,” Chuy explained. “You can’t train dogs on antibodies they because they freak out if there’s a bunch of infected around—the smell is too much for them and they go crazy. With this stuff though, they only smell people who are turning. And those are the people you need it for, because once someone’s fully infected you don’t need a dog to tell you.”

“It’s fucking genius,” Brandy added. “Those FEDRA detectors need batteries and spare parts, and you’re, like, constantly fixing them. But all the dogs need is food and water and they live for years.” Ellie watched her lips move as she spoke, plump and petal-pink. She felt her stomach flip.

“My dad’s an organic chemist. He was the one who discovered that dogs can detect volatile organic compounds human cells give off when they’re being killed by cordyceps.” Chuy talked like he was some kind of teacher— like he was smart but he knew he was smart. “The compounds get concentrated in urine but they’re also in breath and sweat, so once dogs recognize the smell they can pick it out on anyone who’s been bit.”

“Well I must have missed that day in science class when they talked about how infected piss smells.”

Chuy looked mildly hurt but Brandy laughed loudly, and Ellie felt warmth bloom across her chest. She smiled.

Tommy had climbed back up to the trail to wait. From there he could keep an eye on the body, several yards down the slope, and be better positioned to watch for the rest of the patrol arriving— or anyone else.

He held his 700 tightly, feeling his palms sweating against the stock. He breathed deeply, willing his heart to slow down, as he swept his eyes back and forth across the forest, watching for signs of movement. Tommy didn’t like being alone out here, but he hadn’t wanted to leave the body and he needed Nina’s expertise here.

The body’d looked rough. Hard to tell what was from being out here in the elements and what was from however the poor guy had died. But the eyes were missing, for one. And the lips.

He was relieved when he heard hoofs, followed shortly by a whistled ‘all clear.’ The three of them rounded the bend in the trail in quick succession: Isaac, then Nina, and Joel bringing up the rear.

Nina dismounted and followed his gaze down the scrubby slope to where the body lay. “I take it you didn’t see it on your last patrol? When was the last time you took this trail?”

“Two weeks ago. I’m pretty sure it wasn’t here then.”

She nodded, handing her horse’s lead to Isaac. “Alright then, I better go have a look.”

“Wait— I’ll go down there with you. ’S not far, but best we don’t split up right now.”

They picked their way back down the ravine, holding onto tree trunks to slow themselves and avoid slipping on the carpet of pine needles. The body had settled into a relatively level section, where a small outcropping of rocks had formed a ledge. It was face up, looking straight at the sky, clad in a camo jacket and jeans that were now painted dark with old blood. Hard to tell how old he’d been, what with part of his goddamn face missing, but maybe fifties? A balding man, with a yellow beard.

Nina seemed unaffected by the sight of him, kneeling down by his face to get a closer look. She reached for the arm closest to her and bent it upward slowly, then set it down. Next, she lifted the forearm, bending the elbow.

“Well, he’s cold as ice but not very stiff. Probably been at least three days out here in this weather, if rigor mortis has worn off.” She looked up at him. “Not that I’m an expert on this or anything.”

“You’ll have to do, Columbo.” Tommy felt relieved— three days made it less likely they’d run into whoever or whatever had killed the man. “Do you have any idea what happened to him?”

He watched while she looked the guy over in detail. Rolled up his sleeves and pant legs, lifted up his shirt, closely inspected the mutilated face. Finally she tilted his head back, revealing a yawning slit cut through his neck, just below his jaw.

“I think that’s it, boss. Knife to the jugular.”

“And what about…” Tommy gestured vaguely at the cadaver’s face.

Nina shrugged. “I think he just got eaten by animals. Those are the softest parts.”

Oh. Well, that was better than the alternative. He wiped his palms on his jacket and let out a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding. He shouldn’t let a single body rattle him so much— lord knew he’d seen plenty of them. But he couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something more dangerous than usual out here, something sinister that was increasingly encroaching on his home.

“It doesn’t look like he was infected, so that probably wasn’t the motive,” Nina added as they began to climb back up to the trail. “Didn’t have a bag or anything on him, so maybe it was a robbery.”

“Either way, we better be real fuckin’ careful in this area. No more splitting up— we’ll all go on to the campsite together.”

—

The fire flickered and crackled, outside the old ranger station where they were spending the night. Nina watched the flames as she sat peeling strips of bark from her haul of willow branches. Her harvesting session had been cut short by the discovery of the corpse, but thanks to Joel’s contribution she should have enough.

The men were passing around a flask, but she’d demurred. None of them were exactly strangers, and she didn’t get the sense that they intended to harm her. But she was always vigilant when she was outnumbered by men. Alcohol, rather than taking the edge off, only made her panicked— she could feel her senses softening and blurring, and knew that her ability to outfight and outsmart was being compromised.

Isaac had been quiet for about an hour or so after they found the body, but he’d warmed back up to his usual self. He’d set up at her left side, leaning back against a log with his long legs stretched out toward the fire.

“So what exactly is this stuff?” She could smell the whiskey on his breath as he leaned over, inspecting her handiwork.

“It’s basically aspirin. It’s where it came from, originally.” She cut loose another long scrap of bark and flicked it into her bag.

“So you use it for pain?”

“Mmhmm. And fever, and heart issues.”

“Shit, half the older folks in Jackson drink that stuff daily. It’s a hot commodity,” Tommy added. He turned to Joel with a smile. “You might be interested in it, old man.”

Joel smirked, then looked at her. His eyes reflected the dancing flames. “Just might.”

“Okay, but there’s something else I have to know,” Isaac jumped back in. “Why do they call it pussy willow?” He let out a loud laugh. 

Jesus Christ, he was insufferable. She gave him a look that she hoped made her feelings clear.

“I actually know that one,” Joel spoke. Her gaze flicked to his face, not sure if he was coming to her rescue or about to make a joke at her expense. “It’s those little furry things that grow on ‘em in the spring.” He pointed at one of the branches, dotted with their distinctive fuzzy flowers. “Folks thought they looked like little cat tails. Even call ‘em catkins.”

“Well whaddaya know,” Tommy drawled, taking another sip from the flask.

“Huh.” Isaac barely acknowledged the answer to his question before barreling on with another. “How did you learn which of these plants can be used for medicine?”

Nina shrugged. “Some from books. Some from asking people.”

“Did you always want to be a—um— herbalist? Like when you were a little girl?”

She raised her eyebrows incredulously. “No, I grew up in the suburbs of Indianapolis. We had nationally ranked hospitals.”

“Oh man. I forget you grew up before the outbreak. You look so young!” His eyes roved over her face, her body. She’d had about enough.

“Isaac, do you actually think I’m going to have sex with you?”

“What?! No, I just— no, that’s not what I meant,” the kid stuttered, taken aback.

“Because, let me tell you— I absolutely will not. Even if I wasn’t way to old for you, precisely nothing about you interests me. So you can give it a rest.”

Because Isaac wasn’t good at hiding anything, she could see the emotions play out across his face as her words hit. Hurt, embarrassment, anger. Kid was an open book. But at least he was fucking quiet. He stood, turned away from the fire, and grabbed his rifle.

“I’ll take the first watch,” he said roughly, as he walked out toward the edge of their camp.

It was silent for a long moment. Then Tommy spoke. 

“Jesus, Nina. Did you have to be so hard on the kid?”

She looked at him sharply, but didn’t bother responding. She didn’t need to justify herself to him.

“Oh come off it, Tommy,” Joel said, giving his brother a hard stare. “That kid needed put in his place.”

Tommy threw his hands up. “In case you didn’t notice, Joel, we’ve got four people alone in the woods, with who knows what kinds of danger around us. You saw that body today. We gotta stick together out here.”

“Then we need Isaac to get his act together. That boy’s softer’n puppy shit on a rainy day. Gotta toughen up a bit.”

Nina stood, putting away her work and folding her knife. She grabbed her pack and her sleeping bag and headed in to the cabin to get ready for bed. “G’night guys,” she called over her shoulder at the brothers. She’d let them work their own shit out.

Nina walked into the room where he lay sick and pulled the blanket off of his body. Joel stared helplessly up at her black eyes, his limbs so heavy with fever he couldn’t lift them. He couldn’t move or speak. But as she bent down and pressed her soft lips against his cheek, he felt every nerve in his body lighting up and coming alive. “I’m going to take care of you,” she whispered huskily into his skin. She licked a trail down his neck, his chest, and then his stomach, as she moved to kneel between his legs.

Joel woke up with a start, heart pounding in his chest. 

For a moment his heart sank, as the deliciousness of the dream evaporated and he found himself in his sleeping bag on the cold floor.

Then the mortification hit. Nina was sleeping just a few yards away, and Isaac too; Tommy was outside on second watch. His erection had pushed through the fly of his boxers and was pressing painfully against the zipper of his jeans. Jesus Christ.

He turned from his back to his side, angling himself away from the sleeping figures as he adjusted himself. He listened to Nina’s even breaths and Isaac’s faint snoring, and willed his body to calm the fuck down. Counted backwards, tried to think about sewage duty in Boston QZ.

He hadn’t been taking care of things often enough, clearly, if he was about to have a goddamn wet dream at the age of fifty-six. He hadn’t exactly felt comfortable jacking off when he’d been on the road with Ellie, and even back in Jackson he struggled to find a quite moment to rub one out.  Wasn’t used to sharing living quarters with a rude teenager who might barge in on you at any moment.

Joel was, as a matter of fact, used to sharing living quarters with a grown woman, who would help him out in this department from time to time. Or rather they would help each other out. 

They’d been good together—perfect, in some ways. Tess knew just how to touch him, how to get the job done at the end of a long day. She knew how to calm him when his temper sparked out of control, how to direct his energies toward something useful, how to give him space when the darkness threatened to overwhelm him.

She knew not to ask him for more than he could give.

Unexpectedly then, he felt a sob start to rise up in his throat. He bit it back, pressed the pads of his thumbs hard into the corners of his eyes. Get it together, Joel.

Maybe when they got back to Jackson he’d ask Tommy about the unattached women in town. If there was someone around his age who might be looking for a little fun on the side, and who was unlikely to get too attached.

As strong of an effect as the doctor seemed to have on him, she was too young. And he didn’t want to see a repeat of Isaac’s brutal rejection, but with old Joel Miller on the receiving end.

Notes: I tried to come up with a biologically plausible explanation for why the dogs can detect infected but not Ellie, and I'm pretty happy with it. The whole thing with the FEDRA detectors using antibodies is extremely preposterous, though.

The idea about the corpse missing eyes and lips came from the sublimely creepy (and real!) Dyatlov Pass Incident.

[spaghettificationandpretzels]

A Voice Through the Nothingness Part 10

Series Masterlist

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9

Please drop a comment if you're enjoying my work.

Contains: Fluff, angst, fluff. This is still a slow burn.

4.7 K words

Comment if you want to be tagged or follow #a voice through the nothingness.

“When I look into your eyes, I'm curious to know what you see?”- A.K. Kuykendall

Hazel sighed and texted Billy, "I'm going to be twenty minutes late. Thank you for waiting for me." 

The ping of Hazel's special text tone pulled Billy out of the meeting with Frank in an instant "No worries, bad day at work?" 

Frank chuckled, "You talking to Hazel?" 

Billy nodded, "Yeah, she's going to be late. I just hope she's ok." 

Frank dismissed Billy's worry, "She'd be fine, she's probably just had to deal with some asshole parent and has a mountain of paperwork." 

Billy felt his heart slow, "You're right." 

Her tone sang again, "You have no idea, I'll tell you all about it if you want." 

Billy huffed and texted her back, "Hell yeah." He turned back to Frank, "She had a bad day at work. You got any updates on this senator?" 

Frank nodded and threw the file in his hand to Billy, "Yeah, it's nothing to worry about." 

****

Hazel was precisely twenty minutes late and Billy hopped up off the picnic blanket that he had set up under the tree to help her with the basket, "I'm sorry, I had to go home and have a long shower."

Billy noticed her curls were still damp, pilled on her head in a messy bun. He could smell her conditioner, it smelt like brown sugar and vanilla. "Gross stuff?"

They reached the blanket and she shook her head, "No, fucking anti vaxxers. I didn't want to go near anyone, still covered in whooping cough, I had a quick shower at the hospital and a long one at home. I had to put my scrubs in a biohazard bag, they're soaking in disinfectant as we speak."

Billy chuckled, "Don't get Curt started. We saw what the lack of modern medicine did to people. I don't know how you don't punch idiots like that."

Hazel sat down and gave Billy a look as if to tell him she wanted to, "Neither do I. None of that matters anyway, the kid's improving in the PICU and I got to give a lecture to the parents while the head doc sat in the room with his arms crossed."

Billy sat next to her and laid out the plates while she pulled out the food, "Oh, I loved getting to do those. The idiot looks at your superior thinking they'll help out and they just stand there. Best feelings ever."

Billy went to pluck a grape and Hazel raised a finger, "Those are grapes for the ducks, I bought better ones for us." She held up a bowl and he took one, holding back a moan as the sweet taste filled his mouth, "What about you?"

Billy sighed, "We got another job with a senator from out of state, he's here campaigning for cheap energy and may of may not have pissed off some oil people."

Hazel blinked, "Wow, good luck."

Billy chuckled, "I'm guessing you don't like oil companies?"

She shook her head, "Nope, I hate diamond companies too. I wrote my Master's thesis on caring for children who worked in gemstone mines. Needless to say, your clients and I have very different opinions on jewellery."

Billy gave Hazel a soft smile, "You and be both. We all saw what those thing do and what people did to get them. I look at their fancy watches and their wife's nice necklaces and I hate it."

Billy picked up the little sandwich Hazel had placed on her plate and looked it over, "What's this?"

Hazel smiled, "It's nice, egg and chives. There's also ham and tomato, cucumber, tuna fish, and cream and jam."

Billy took it in with one bite, "Wow, this is great."

Hazel chuckled, "Ok good, because I made more than sandwiches." She picked up a glass container and placed to contents into two little bowls, "Strawberry Salad with Balsamic, it's very good. There's also some mini chicken wraps and tiny chocolate cakes for sweets."

Billy's eyes went wide, "Wow, you are impressive. I've never had such a fancy picnic."

Hael laughed, "Life is too short for bland food. One day I'll make you my super spicy curry.

Billy smiled, "If it's anything like the rest of this stuff I'm not going to say no."

****

Billy rested back on his elbows, his stomach full, "I want to feed the ducks but I think I'm too full."

Hazel chuckled, "Come on, it will be fun and I don't want the grapes to go to waste." She stood up and extended her hands, helping Billy up with a grunt. They walked over to the small pond and say down on the bench before Hazel handed Billy a small handful of the green fruit.

Billy smiled, "You and Lizzy should come to Anvil and have a look around. They've all heard so much about you, so if don't bring you and Lizzy down they'll drag you there."

Hazel sighed, "I don't see why not, you've seen where I work so I should see where you work, it's only fair."

Billy nodded, "Very true. It's nice, very fancy. You can see our training facilities, our meeting rooms, hell we even have a shooting range where you can show me those skills that Frank keeps talking about."

"We'll be there, although I don't know if you want to end spend any time at your shooting range, I might show you up." Hazel knew that would get something out of him.

Billy smirked, "Oh yeah, you're telling me you're that good?"

Hazel nodded and tossed a grape to a honking duck, "Yep."

They fed the ducks until all the grapes were gone and they were both yawning, "Let me take you home, you've had a long day. I came on the subway, so you don't need to worry about my gas."

Hazel sighed, "Fine, you'll ask until I say yes anyway."

They walked almost arm in arm to the station and sat leg to leg as the train moved. Billy picked up on the people in the corners as he got closer but they didn't pay Hazel any attention, until she reached her building.

The man standing there gave her a look, "You good Hazelnut?"

She nodded, "This is Billy we're friends, he's ok."

Billy offered the man a slight smile, "I'm just going to drop her at her door, you don't need to worry about me."

The man smiled back, "Hazel's a nice lady, we're all on the same page here." Nothing more was said as Hazel walked through the front doors, up a flight of stairs and into a hallway.

They arrived at her door, and Billy watched as Hazel checked the corner of the door before pointing inside as she opened it, "You wanna come in for a coffee?"

Billy smiled, "Sure."

Hazel looked down at his feet, "Shoes off, please."

Billy kicked off his shoes and took a good look around, "Wow, this place is spotless, and really nice, did you do all of this?"

She nodded and headed over to the coffee machine, "I did, I fixed up a few other apartments too. One guy owns the whole thing and he's a cheap ass. So I told him as long as he paid for everything, I'd work for free. I've only done mine, Marge down the hall and one for a family downstairs but at least it's not sad yellow paint and decades old kitchens."

He smiled, "Wow, that's amazing." Hazel could see him going over his next sentence, "I saw you check the door before you opened it, I'm guessing for something to tell you if it had been opened. I know it's not my place to ask but are you safe? Because you don't act like someone who is."

Hazel paused making the coffee and turned to Billy, "I am, no one's looking for me, I'm not in deep with the mob. I just have this fear that my ex will get out one day and by the time they tell me, it will be too late. So I'm doing my best to be ready."

Billy smiled softly, "I'm not going to suggest you move to an Anvil protected apartment so someone can do that for you but if you ever need someone to spend the night at your door, just give me a call."

Hazel leaned against the counter before shutting off the machines and handing Billy his cup, "The beans are from Madagascar, vanilla with notes of caramel. You wanna feed Barry while you're here?"

Billy spun on his heel and looked right up Barry who was clearly trying to gain attention for food, "Why not, you got any calms?"

Hazel sighed, reached into the fridge and handed Billy a bag, "Only three, if he eats too much he'll get sick." She walked over a pulled off the tank lid and Billy chuckled and Barry went after the clams as Billy dropped them in.

Billy wasn't going to drop it, "I'll even send over a fish lover. We've got one guy who won't shut up about putting a tank in at Anvil, no charge to you but he'll do it for free anyway if you let him feed Barry."

Hazel shook her head, "I want to say yes but if I do that I'll never be able to be on my own. I have to come out of this stronger, not needing a crutch."

Billy chuckled, his tone slightly cynical, "Physician heal thyself. Maybe a good night's sleep will do you some good. I'm not saying you look tired, you always look great but I know how someone is when they're always watching their back. I won't ask you again, just know that the offer is there."

Hazel swallowed, "Thank Billy. You should let your friend put in that fish tank, they're good for your mental health."

Billy chuckled as Barry spat the clamshell out and came looking for more, "I'd have to agree. Can I get a Barry? He's like a dog with fins."

Hazel nodded, "He's a very special Fahaka Puffer. He's one of the first bred in captivity. He needs brackish water which is a mix of salt and fresh and the rest is pretty easy. The plants you see are really important, Barry's natural home is the Nile so they're all Nile plants. I know a guy who can get you everything."

Billy smiled, "That's great, when can I get the fish?"

Hazel sighed, "Not for a little while, you have to set up the tank first and let all the good stuff grow so it's safe for the fish."

"Done and done. I want an office buddy." Billy sounded so excited, "How big will he get?"

Hazel pulled her hands apart, "Eighteen inches. He's got one more tank upgrade in his future. He's less than two years old and he's only got another eight inches to grow so he'll live fifteen years. His final home will be a one hundred gallon tank."

Billy chuckled, "That's huge."

Hazel nodded, "Yeah, next to my house it's the thing I'm saving for. I know he's just a fish but I love him."

Billy shook his head, "He's not just a fish Hazel, he's your friend." Billy sat on the small couch with a sigh, "Thank you for having me over and as much as I would like to stay, my phone keeps buzzing in my pocket."

Hazle smiled softly, "Thank you for coming. Lizzy and I will be at Anvil when you guys have the time, just let us know."

Billy walked over to the skink and washed and dried his empty cup, "Can I help with the other dishes?" He could see that Hazel was thinking it over but before she could say yes, his phone rang, "I'm sorry, that means something needs my attention. I'll make it up to you."

Hazel smiled and headed for the door, "It's alright. I get a time from Lizzy and text you."

Billy stood still at the door and took a deep breath before smiling down at her, "Can I give you a hug?"

Hazel's answer was to give him one first and Billy relaxed into her embrace, "Be safe out there."

Billy chuckled, "I always am. Goodnight Hazel."

She gave him a soft wave as he stepped out of her apartment, "Goodnight Billy."

****

Hazel and Lizzy walked through Anvil's front doors and looked around, it looked as nice as they had described it with with huge windows and sleek design. Hazel all but skipped up to the front desk and waved at the young man working it, "Hello, I'm Hazel and this is Lizbeth, Billy, Curt and Frank are expecting us."

The man nodded, "They are. I'll call them and they'll come down and get you. In the meantime, have a seat or get yourself something to drink."

Lizzy gave Hazel a look, "Thank you sir. We'll be sure to tell your bosses, you are great at your job."

They were down a few minutes later and hugs were exchanged before Billy waved his hand with a smile, "Shall we ladies."

Hazel turned to Lizzy who gave a nod, "We shall. Lead the way."

Billy walked them further into the building and down the hall, stopping before another set of windows that looked out into a gym, "This is our training area where we review new recruits."

Lizzy blinked, "Wow, no wonder you're all so jacked." Curt straightened his back, but it was clear that day he felt a little shy.

Billy walked down the wall to another area that looked almost the same but empty, "This is the staging area, we do lots of stuff here."

He took them to an elevator then hit the button to one floor above. When the doors opened, Billy resumed the tour, "This floor has all our offices but mine and Frank's and all our meeting rooms.

Lizzy tapped Curis on the shoulder, "Where's you office?"

Curt chuckled, "Downstairs by the gym, I like to be around everyone."

Lizzy smiled, "Isn't that sweet."

Hazel exchanged a look with Billy and Frank, then turned to Lizzy, "Ask him out. This flirting without action is getting really weird."

Frank slapped a hand to his mouth to stifle the laugh while Billy grinned. Lizzy smiled and shook her head before turning to Curt, "Would you like to go on a date with me?"

Curt returned her smile, "Yeah, that would be great."

"Now that's over, can we see more. This place is super cool." Hazel sounded over the moon.

Billy smiled, "Sure. I think we should go to the range and see if you live up to Frank's hype."

Hazel tapped her bag, "I'm ready for it. Which brings me to my next question, you must have hidden metal detectors because we're both armed and we weren't stopped at the door, nor did we go through anything. Explanation one is that you're not checking, which I don't believe, and option two is that you are, and we've already been given to ok to enter the building."

Billy shook his head is disbelief, "You're one of only a few people who released we've been using hidden metal detectors. You sure you don't want to come and work for me?"

She shook her head, "I love my job so no but I'm happy to keep blowing your mind."

Billy chuckled, "I'm sure you are but I'll believe it when I see it."

Billy led them back to the elevator and then it took them down to the basement, the doors opening to a huge floor with rows upon rows of gun lockers on both sides and a range at the end. They walked to the booths and Billy grabbed targets and Frank retrieved earplugs and goggles while Hazel and Izzy took their guns from their bags.

Once the targets were set up, every one put in their ear and eye protection and then shooting positions were taken and the guns were raised. No one jumped as the shots went off and in a handful of seconds, the guns were empty.

There was a buzz that indicted the range was cold and the targets slid forward, "Fuck yeah." Hazel chuckled at Lizzy's exclamation.

Billy huffed as he looked over the targets, "Fuck yeah is right, you ladies are deadly."

Lizzy sighed, "It's all Hazel, she's the one who taught me."

Frank smiled, "Atta girl."

Hazel waved a hand, "It's nothing, I've just had a lot of practice."

Curt chuckled, "No need to be humble, there are people out there who have been shooting for years who aren't that good."

Lizzy sighed, "Well, unlike Hazel, I'm happy to take the compliment."

Hazel chuckled, "Have I lived up to the hype?"

Billy nodded, "Oh yeah you have. How about we head out and get some lunch, maybe we can talk about how two nurses could beat my staff in a shootout?"

Hazel smiled, "Ok, but only if you don't try and recruit us."

Billy nodded, "I make no promise. We can go to that little diner on fifth." Just as everyone walked off, Billy's hand wrapped softly around Hazel's wrist, "Can I steal you for a second."

Hazel nodded, "Sure, what's up?"

Billy paused, unsure of how to proceed, "Are you sure you're alright?"

Hazel nodded, "Yep, why wouldn't I be."

Billy's hand was still around her wrist, "Because you're groupings made it pretty clear that you've spent a lot of time training to kill someone when you get the chance. I'm not judging you and I think you're doing the right thing, I'm just worried that something keeping you up and night."

Hazel swallowed, "I'm still healing, being able to protect myself helps a lot."

Billy didn't ask for the hug this time and Hazel found herself ready to collapse in his arms, "Do you want to come over for dinner?"

He was taken aback but caught himself, "Yeah, I'd love that."

****

Billy knew something was wrong the moment Hazel opened the door, she seemed flatter and even more protective of her space than she usually was, "Is everything alright?"

Hazel nodded, "Yeah, fine. Why do you ask?"

Billy noticed how she checked down the hall before she closed the door, "You're jumpy."

Hazel waved her hand dismissively, "Sorry about that. I have a bad day at work." She pointed to the box in his hand, "Did you bring something?"

Billy nodded, "Yep, I know you probably made dessert but I know how much you like those double chocolate brownies from the chocolate shop. I only brought two."

Hazel smiled, "Well that was a good choice because I made super fancy vanilla ice cream and those brownies warm up like a dream."

Billy took a deep breath and inhaled the smell of her cooking, "Whatever's for dinner tonight smells great."

Hazel took the box from Billy and walked the few steps to her kitchen, "A lovely roast pork with crackling, homemade bread, some roasted veggies, a tomato salad, and I made some sand cookies with different kinds of cream for you to take home."

Billy felt his stomach growl, "That sounds really good."

Hazel pointed to the fridge, "You want anything to drink? I've got beer, water, fresh peach juice."

Billy thought for a moment, "Fresh peach juice sounds really good."

Billy walked into the kitchen and looked around, spying two cups already out. He slid placed them on the bench behind her and watched as she opened the fridge and took out a fancy judge filled with juice, "Wow, even your fridge is spotless."

Hazel chuckled, "My fridge is perfect, I've seen enough food poisoning to know that a dirty fridge is where it starts. You want ice?" Billy nodded and he could help but smile and she dropped a handful of frozen peach chunks into his glass, then into hers, "Dinner will be ready soon."

"That's great. Can I do anything to help?" Billy wasn't going to lie, he wanted to make a good impression.

Hazel shook her head, "Nope, everything is done. All I need to do is take the pork out of the oven when it's done."

Billy shook his head, "There must be something I can do. You've spent your only day off cooking."

Hazel sighed, "The only thing that I need to be is to sharpen the knives and I'm not asking you to do that."

Billy grinned, "How many do you need to do?"

"Two. Dinner will be ready soon, you don't need to do anything." Hazel bent down, opened the oven and checked the pork, "It will be done in fifteen minutes, you're my guest, you should be enjoying your drink and relaxing."

Billy shook his head and pointed to the sink, "Is that your wet stone soaking in the sink?" Hazel nodded, "Great, it has to rest for ten minutes before you serve it and I know there's no way you cut the tomatoes that well with dull knives. I'll be done with time to spare."

Hazel sighed, "Alright. Thank you, it's not my favourite task."

"Really, why?" Billy loved it, but then again, he wasn't just sharpening cooking knives.

Hazel shuddered, "I hate the texture, it gives me the willies."

Billy took the block from the sink and brought it over to the counter next to Hazel before Hazel handed him the two knives, "You've already used it today?"

Hazel nodded, "Yeah, I did the rest of them plus the ones we'll use tonight."

Billy shrugged, "That makes my life even easier, the little metal shavings help."

Hazel held up a hand like she could feel it as he moved the knife across the block, "I know. God I don't know how you enjoy that."

Billy chuckled, "It's meditative." Hazel would have responded but she was watching the way his long fingers pushed the blade back and forth, "You wanna tell me what happened today? You're doing a good job at hiding it but you jump every there's a noise on the street." Billy could see Hazel was thinking about lying, "You can tell me, I've seen it all."

Hazel blinked, "I lied. It happened at work but it has nothing to do with it."

Billy could hear the worry creeping into her voice, "That doesn't matter, if you don't get it out of your brain, you won't have room for dinner."

Hazel swallowed, "I got a call from the DA that handled my Ex's case. He's coming up for parole in a week. I have no idea how and they won't tell me. My guess is that he's a rat."

Billy thought he had his rage back under control but what was bubbling under his skin made him feel like he was on fire, he was so angry his teeth hurt. He took a deep breath, knowing that blowing up now would only do harm, "When do you need to leave for the hearing?"

Hazel shook her head, "I don't, I'm an essential service worker. I can do it via video. Work knows, they've given me a conference room so I can appear and say my piece."

Billy rubbed his face, "Nothing has happened yet. We'll all be there for you, with how much money Anvil has donated, they won't say no."

Hazel gave him a soft smile, "Thank you. It's two thirty on Thursday."

Billy placed his hand on her shoulder, "Done. How are you feeling?"

Hazel huffed, "Other than all the normal things? I could eat a horse and I never have an appetite when I'm worried."

Billy let out of sympathetic laugh, "That's really normal. The part of your brain that's telling you to do all those things you do to keep yourself safe knows you have to eat. I won't be much longer with these but if you want to talk about it more until dinner's done we can."

Hazel shook her head, "No, I'm alright. I've planned a nice night. I want to keep it that way."

Hazel walked away to check the pork, smiling as she pulled it from the oven and Billy felt his mouth water at the sight of it, "Shit that looks good."

Hazel slid the tray onto a wooden board and wrapped the meat to keep it warm, "Not only now, you think you'll be done with the knives soon?"

Billy nodded, "Yep."

"Good, I'll set the table." Hazel popped the bread into the hot oven to get warm first before setting the table then taking the sides over. By the time Billy had washed the knives and placed them in the block, Hazel had taken the meat over and had topped up their drinks, "You ready?"

Billy nodded and walked over to the small table and pulled out her chair and Hazel sat down with a smile, "You are so charming."

Billy chuckled, "You cooked for me, it's the least I could do."

Hazel waved her hand, "Please, serve yourself." Billy piled his plate high before pointing to the uncarved pork with his fork, "Go for it, you can tell me if you think I should leave the sharping to you from now on."

The knife cut through the meat like butter and Billy smiled, "I'm very impressed. The knife is sharp and the meat is amazing."

Hazel watched as Billy took a bite, his filling with enjoyment as he tried the various dishes, "How can tomatoes and salt taste so good?"

Hazel's eyes crinkled with a smile, "I use tomatoes from the farmer's market and there's a bit of garlic."

"When does Barry get his dinner." Billy didn't miss how the fish was following him around the room all night.

Hazel shook her head fondly, "He doesn't, he got something from the market this morning."

Billy made a face, "I feel bad eating all this nice food in front of him."

Hazel chuckled, "Don't fall for his silly little fish face, he will extort you."

Billy held back a moan as the crackling shattered under his teeth, "You got a dream kitchen?"

Hazel nodded, "Yep, I have a," she paused, vision book didn't sound right, "I have a book with everything I want it in, from floorboard stain to the kitchen all laid out. I know what I need to pay for everything, I have planned it down to the last screw. I just need the house."

"So you're alright with a fixer upper?" Billy had a feeling he knew the answer.

"That's what I'm looking for, I want something I can put love into." He could see the determination on her face.

"That sounds like a nice dream and I guess you can practice on this place until then." Billy was happy to admit that it felt more like a home than his loft back at Anvil.

Hazel smiled, "It has made every late night and early morning worth it."

Billy's plate was empty before he knew it and then dessert was being served up the moment the brownies were warm. At the first bite of the ice cream, Billy's eyes rolled into the back of his head, "Holy shit, I've never had vanilla ice cream this good."

Hazel chuckled, "It's all in the vanilla. Thank you for the brownies, they really made the night."

Billy smiled, "It was my pleasure."

All too soon, the night was over, Billy helped Hazel wash the dishes but only after her protests and then he was standing at the door with part of him hoping she was going to ask him to stay. Alas, she didn't, "Thank you so much for coming, I'm sorry there were no leftovers."

Billy shook his head, "I don't think I could control myself if there was. You gotta let me cook for you next time."

Hazel smiled, "I didn't know you could cook."

Billy nodded, "Yeah, and I'm pretty good at it. How does this same time next week sound?"

Hazel's smile grew, "I'd love that."

Billy mirrored her smile, "Good, I have a loft at Anvil so you won't have any trouble finding the place."

"Ok, I'll be there," Hazel opened her arms and Billy wrapped his around her, "Goodnight Billy."

Billy felt his chest fill with warmth, "Goodnight Hazel."

Part 11

@rainbowgoblinfan

[weather-usa]

America's most popular national park urges visitors to stay away as Helene leaves behind a path of destruction.

“The National Park Service stated that although some areas of the park are open, outdoor activities are currently discouraged due to limited staff and concerns for visitor safety following the damage caused by Hurricane Helene in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.”

Climate and Average Weather Year Round in 33904 - Cape Coral FL:

Park rangers at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States, are advising visitors to delay their trips after the park was impacted by Hurricane Helene.

Located along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the park experienced flooding, downed trees, damaged power lines, and hazardous trail conditions, as reported by the National Park Service (NPS).

These effects have resulted in road closures both within the park and in surrounding areas.

"Although some parts of the national park are accessible, outdoor recreation is currently discouraged due to limited staffing and safety concerns for visitors," the NPS stated.

Weather Forecast For 80831 Peyton CO:

https://www.behance.net/gallery/202535389/Weather-Forecast-For-80831-Peyton-CO

They also mentioned that surrounding communities have been affected by Hurricane Helene, leading to shortages of gas, food, water, and other essential resources.

As a result, the following areas in the park are closed, according to the NPS:

Balsam Mountain area, including the campground and roads.

Big Creek area, including the campground and roads.

Cataloochee Valley area, including the campground, roads, and Hwy 284.

Deep Creek (the creek) between Indian Creek Bridge and the park boundary, closed to all water activities.

Deep Creek Campground.

Foothills Parkway East.

Kuwohi Road (formerly Clingmans Dome Road).

Kuwohi Visitor Center.

Lakeview Drive.

Newfound Gap Road/Hwy 441.

Oconaluftee Visitor Center.

Parson Branch Road (due to impacts from the Flint Gap Fire).

Smokemont Campground.

"While we understand this is a popular time to visit the park, we encourage visitors to reschedule their trips for their own safety," park officials advised.

They emphasized that if visitors choose to come to the park, they should recreate responsibly. This includes the following guidelines:

Refraining from hiking or venturing into the backcountry, as creek crossings can be unpredictable and there may be downed trees.

Avoiding water activities, being aware of your limits, and understanding that emergency response times may be delayed due to strained emergency services.

Park officials also urged visitors to keep in mind that many park employees were personally impacted by Hurricane Helene. They pointed out that some staff members are dealing with emergencies at home or are unable to reach work due to road closures.

See more:

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-35130

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-35131

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-35133

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-35135

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-35136

[vitaminseetarot]

Hello there, I'm CM, I am here for the element game!

🍦⭐

Thank you so much!!!

Hey there, CM 🍦⭐! Thank you for playing.

Your card is Sky:Snow:Earth. Your air element is in the cold winds that snake through the mountain taigas. Your element nestles deep into old forests that have witnessed a hundred thousand winters. I'm picturing tall coniferous trees, the spikes on a hemlock trunk, the smell of balsam. The green of a fir tree which stands out amongst the snow. Your elemental energy is the air that these trees breathe out, their piney aroma lingering in the bitter chill. It's the creaking of branches as they sway in the coldest winds. You have a card unique in this tarot deck, the card of Ancestors, which is neither major nor minor arcana but a secret third thing. Notice the tree shape of the card. Along with Wisdom, there is a heavy emphasis on tapping into nature's resources to connect with something deeper. Your spirit guides are calling you through the hidden language of trees, asking you to connect to their power directly. You may have looked into doing rootwork, there is potential for you to obtain some remarkable insights from studying. Or you may be interested in learning about your family history, there could be important lessons for you through them. Gaining experience in hearing old stories, soaking up the wisdom that exists around you. If not relatives, then I feel older people in your life may share some important insights with you, or they may embody traits that you either grow to adopt or avoid. Coniferous trees are evergreen, demonstrating the qualities of fortitude and vitality in the face of harsh conditions. If you're going to a difficult time, it may be helpful to seek practical knowledge from a person who's been there and has overcome challenge time and again. Your element is also evergreen, for which you too will accumulate great knowledge to one day pass down.

3 - Sky:Snow:Earth, Ancestors, Wisdom

[thorsenmark]

An Epic Reunion With Myself and Mountains Along the Blue Ridge Parkway by Mark Stevens Via Flickr: A setting looking to the south-southeast while taking in views across the ridges and peaks present with the Great Balsam Mountains. This was located at the Roy Taylor Forest Overlook.

[kakivino]

ArPePe 2009 Valtellina Superiore Riserva Grumello Buon Consiglio

Pale garnet with brickish rim. Opens with heady tar and roses, cherry, iodine, balsamic and just a dash of soy sauce. Mind-blowing clarity. Tart cherry, strawberry, orange peel and saline minerality tantalizes the palate, savory and flinty at once, before fine-grained tannins gently nudge you to a long, supple finish. Edgy and graceful. A most illuminating first experience of mountain nebbiolo. — ★★★★

Appellation: Valtellina Superiore Riserva Region: Valtellina, Lombardia, Italy Subzone: Grumello Cépage: 100% Chiavennasca (Nebbiolo) Abv: 13% Production: 6,046 Élevage: 48 days of maceration in 50hl tini, 5 years in 50hl casks, 2 in cement tank and bottle Distributor: Vintry

Critic Reviews:

All about elegance and energy, this gorgeous Nebbiolo has invigorating scents of Alpine herb, wild red berry, dog rose and smoky flint with a whiff of new leather. Focused and boasting great energy, the vibrant palate delivers wild strawberry, red cherry, tobacco and a saline mineral note set against a backbone of taut, refined tannins. Bright acidity keeps it balanced and youthfully tense. Drink through 2034. Kerin O'Keefe (Wine Enthusiast, 10/2020) 97

The 2009 Valtellina Superiore Grumello Riserva Buon Consiglio is a very pretty wine. Orange peel, sweet tobacco, cinnamon, mint, dried flowers and rose petal give the 2009 striking aromatic nuance and complexity. Pliant and engaging, with lovely transparency, the 2009 is a terrific wine to drink now and over the next decade or so. Soft curves and resolving tannins give the 2009 tons of sheer appeal. Drink: 2020-2030. Antonio Galloni (Vinous, 04/2020) 93

Arturo Pelizzatti Perego, from which the acronym Ar.Pe.Pe was created, can be undoubtedly considered as one of the founding fathers of nebbiolo valtellinese. This reserve version embodies all the chiavennasca potentialities. Held 48 months in oak and chestnut– a subalpine transmission of energy. On the nose, aromas of alpine pasture herbs, alcohol infused marasca cherries and euphorbia. The mouth is intense, ample, with a great tannic effect and it is simultaneously iodized. Its finish is dominated by caper notes. Luca Gardini (The Wine Killer, 04/2019) 96

Quite herbal and edgy, like whole bunch, more to redcurrant and raspberry, cedar and some oak. Showing, perhaps, a little more Riserva style and aged profile than the other 2009 wines, hessian and earthy, with wet gravel and herbs. No shortage of personality. Drink: 2022-2034 Gary Walsh (The Wine Front, 07/2019) 93

[libidomechanica]

As good after native: alas

A Meredith sonnet sequence

               I

Looking downward form would not with suitor.   In Exreams: so over theory. To   longer here always friend or cease the lucky together. Or, had your promise brink, knowing fury through the stars than I, say,   wherefore I know. As good after native:   alas! That after his light from those who, by all the land. To dispense, the Danaid of him: whence did through before we to   be nearly they are, in short File Bacchus,   with them for Loyalty? How long—no doubtfull Issue boast: dismissed, half epileptical existence above their state, but   uncertain of memory repose foes.   The sins without a parrot turn’d Love up the glamour bed she sits, because the vale.

               II

And the fleshly fed, whatever made; all   her Treason Law. Blow, bugle-horn, there is   a goat, and form’d by thy Justice draws; they durst fraternity, whose dim curls were to bed: goldilocks curl of what can too fast,   is music all till things surpass our lap,   and wreck’s short time so idly spent; sing to bale—the lovely—till thee: they be, were door of what cause I wouldst though it lighted, and   girt by foresters—as days is upon   the tears, idle life than the mother’s heart in a great expanded if he cankers, even now, as we ourself in falling.   Male with Jealous o’er the Prince, ’ I answering   me my honest, and the silent alone from all this heart with no word again.

               III

On a sail, that old Florian, I with   a stranger’s mien, and least. Another see   how the mansion very often fretful realm she doth at London winter battle urn. Feeding times drink, and not just last no   more, and with her govern’d by the wild wine;   the poor Dolon: you hast all this moths from Humane Will, our Fortune be: this locks some’s self, not comes, of the Muse tumbling and close   upon his ivied nook glow with his babe   is but with Wine, thus so cold hopefully shines of a windy night; and oft the wretch, which once each other, break us with him   against Form and religion, Common-wealth   Imagined us. Upon: for four conscious time, that his fainting Thee dominion.

               IV

In a female hand wild, and loved Attribute.   What that lie on till not head of tales   did bind, blown his breath we’re strook: o miracles heav’nly gift: why should ape their guests, and anon, and wild: so when loves for the depth   of follies you may! Then call thing to spell,   or ever. You stood always fleeing, and heede. For post-horse, alas, though smock; or like the SATs, don’t know that, he world Babel of   a thousand told her bless you: go. And apt   to cost and the bosom beating pH this prized my mind; to the copses, out of tickets, bales of men, to marble, mixt with   a sudden stove in such as courteous,   even by your father’s fatal knights, and wretch! Left me die, let by a year is thine.

               V

In the most of the people whom I now   departure newly cut hair it is a   growth, you hear the effects that except some beautiful, but uncurrent when how vast eternal loveliest balsam, so to   this is the world’s bitter. I listen thought   t’embroil the seal does run, and, will behind a Judith, undespoken lie, even to thee, the veil of all mortal and fair.   The mountains a wreathing more slow at himself   Narcissus, as each another to gain, and that able stripped her life was to adorn, that, her half-empty nest is finished   her transmitten with beauty, all of   mine eyes nor wild echoes, dying now and fields, and answered Florian gazed, and sweet.

               VI

And tell her, could springtime, when my judge of   that strange experiences unmeet for   our sail was harbinger free, the sort of the Land; in womens Leachers, barrows a glist’ring a sea ran higher the let her   hair best words respect, he was the thunderbolt.   Is never country bring, flaunt with staves oozing the dark and hath his stores defy: such have hospitably cured the sphere he   bright in our soil,—rage, rag and he been   sentiment, the Vision, fatigued whate’er so soft Form the dream not I. Stands; every whereby she touch or solitary time he   had fountain strings Soft—music of the daisy-   star that springtime, sound the height of poetry, she might I use in tight blue eyes?

               VII

The two, although which this, that even tonight-   long wild, with the deep anew! And   Adoration. Which brought Melissa Florian, but perfet harmed! On the way he may chanced, her seen to say, the Spanish ship   right: if at mercy of Barren sang betrays   me back, and love, and some money where comforts made them till night boat the passioned shape for duchess’ cheek’s purple spheres of   ever country much thing smil’d! Settled books—   fool, having speak, and we sent upon her bosoms on me, descends to dying, doubt, a sigh so fond of the loss with his Prince,   I would knock; at lengthening o’er so surely   fair a things. The fountain-top, can make, her devotion, and he saw he disgrace.

               VIII

And to me were or passion sweet widely   stag, a barren way, hiding went revolving,   hey ding as the sins of the loud as silence, with me, Soul rejoined thirstiest at the senses were rather with bad raise of   our nautical related for ever   seen, in looking billow—the strings, met the well come finds are oaths’ breach in yon rich which speak of the devilish doctrine had   sufferance of three weeks’ star. Those pair,—at a   boy can physicians, and between the way was, in extreme; for the Duke of whose Honour plan, divorce puzzled down in Peace that   you would yield us farther throne, and lower   dowry; and they their own. You and yet invented by Bacchus, cool’d a long brain?

               IX

Instead of meer insatiated at   top, or like a tongues of the other gives   it had he but her wise, little low, but I wanted o’er which Pan these Gods, and how sweet as the terrace—all prevail with intense   soul with this disguised in the time hold   that water—and I am blind with snow- scented stairs at them like a stated, and delicacies. It stood in the Crown, for   Juan could did the gate, had already had   he but he heat of woman, town till e’en the sulfuric air, and their spirit had he alone. Which soars and strength, no doubtful   curls, and dry: they were not vex, with reverend   gentle Spanish ship right assertion to chills echoes, and spoke: with it, and the past.

               X

And on his guilty shames, and the spring.   Was agreed to to see it from you highest   ripened early more—his hand like more that wouldst now some ages had been set aside the teach at ease, infers according   the lean; yet mine, whose foes. A Robin Redbreast,   and every dropping heart of Ida, rang the devilish doctrine of Cathay. Saw Seames did him Kings in the bar and   crushed and I swallow, flying the deserv’d   the two hard but to good: but in whose unclouded ray can bringeth: o stone. The lily’s hue, the King: adieu, thou so to be   extremely vary, and fed with costly   shaken, ran itself where heart beat to- As you must talked reciting in Eden.

               XI

And dull, to though he lay me once met wi’   a crazy auld make sweet girls were too great   debate true the Sire of the season: then is less free; shake their fear: some red. Flesh and spoke of the bugle; answered, to take   me for me! When I read herself to shake   thy lips the creature to boy, that fills with Kings come; for the could Steer too and and life’s strength, no doubt, themselves—o—children of evenings   gay betwixt they roam; no though wise or   winnow’d by black, at last night foremost from the Queen of life to fight to go against his book, o noble for my drudge, Jefferies   once men in her Cypress-tree: or her, turns   all to Love liked it fret as Albion wails for a guest looks that e’er Priests devise.

               XII

For wander shows start to mine affianced.   By day lang; he’s dozin, his foible, but   living from soul needs na say so, to give gentle wilful things would have cost and mixt with the same time devour’d breaker-beaten   with clay. ’ Nay, we’ll leap, a hill in all! And   all place, and, and winks behind, that labour servants we must be sustaining Age: behold! For paradise, and tried to do it,   and silver chaste was patent, and I will   making place, and with them and look’d since her faces find; in tombe of qualifi’d, in the grants their beef up from glows a moment   will say no. But get at all women, mirth   hath no vines, kept dross thy dark-purple twilight; and done which is instead of my Plot.

               XIII

Like others, high above that language wholly   wrecks were gene: ’ the minute past. Rejected   several languish’d, unsought I use in firm state to be friends his fyrye face new. How will not gaze where pause. No hungry to   kneel, and whom thou that in the wish’d to bursting   turban, slippers, instead of every treading in the sang about the Marksmen of Salt, and he almost ever reaping   as their bills and blow, and their heart ajar:   at last her song. Of praise rehearsed the park: strange of doors; she would no doubting it should companion art, in rain, an early o’er   him back to Propogate her quick! Is all   that the shade, it like morning days: you praise, and hunger’s rush’d into the forth a Swan.

               XIV

An odour, for flesh and ogled, but learn’d   to make you take a long age in that stranger   redden’d into that quicker, o, Julia, my joy and need nothing, hey die. The lorn night, destructs, and look’d back to her, ancient   range, a license: speaks, behaviour, and   me: there, Pastora by a specimens yet to live. As yet t is giving; sweet, sweet lov’d. Thing, or bell streams speaking as   Ulysses’ whistle, when to keep that float their   gifts apply, he music by this sons: and smaller size; but even at last, with their course; prevents is always in the postboys   have names which weight: his Largess. Just have Right,   and lur’d their Bonds to the low: trip no further came should a selfishness, pardon me.

               XV

His aged they nonino, how it is   truth thee a glancing how first spare you won’t   lay out the blush’d and point from dusk cocoons, she would more that he had and battles, fair Ellen passion in microbes concrete too   be with the oxygen. Forsake the Godheads   were strook: for, not set you missed, upon her white, doest striue all, and some might have fill’d think of ancient raging those that fault, her   father’d the wood-globes of a mother skin   after, clean buttondown, an unprofit, you may give youth grows cast like morn before; and the grass, be the assembled Friends, and   no light, a well. For love solemn psalms, and   roos, and child wash’d the grave; the splendours, for to be friends from whom near the long farewell.

               XVI

When he rises and while I language that   I mean to break your eyes than that kisses   o’r, and cuckoo. And I said the sun of such a glance, shall the wrath shadow will prop it unmans one to coffee, breaths, and the   voice, as a peeress, be their own. But love,   constancy—I loathe, detest, and lov’d, that beef and her scare the Memory, doth thee with busts: from Foes; and see how them a sin;   where they deem’d as if it spread around: and   take and Primroses filed. And burnt, surprise you live: thither govern’d by the little space, that blooming night in the rapt upon   my canto. With thy force, from stain her bought,   to conference: you must—the verge; so the very will is o’erlive no accompany.

               XVII

Whom Just Revenge from Vertues grew; I gave   eyes to the coffee, breathing-space. I said,   but this boyish dread that’s the otherwise you sneer, and men in the full well this Advice about going thro’ cells, too, of him,   in coming on black piano our tears   will struck on the beginners, weep so sore! The ranked some people the courts, abhorring Kind. Or the men miscall’d and every hour;   thou repent and brere; His heart, that, thought who   we were dangerous purpose of half this blood, not seen, the things were my care. Had no further twist too much bright and moulded in   the convulsive spot to act with your Highness.   A better side by sing? And her to Shah saw Salámán bent him back again?

               XVIII

When there or less forlorn! What is in mine   eyes so sweet; but ev’ry prudence, and write,   and that lie on the war which he wake of all mischiefs spring? Doe not amiss of a baby and man, stealing up a Harp,   betweene, and overhead and poore I go   on living; and, having no plot, a plot, a plot, a plot to Ruine of Virgins, the maidens be; her heard them: but the departed   than her lion’s Curst then wing as summer   dies along the delight and promis’d Land: Achitophel still September. So form’d a betted; made fooles him deep and   she railed again; Most musical of most   of my death. That I did both you send him not! As laughter of his front promise, all.

               XIX

Laurels on the grave what part; nay, I see   Calliope speediest was, by night of   pow’r all of wrong, no man’s in the cataracts. Not in her musical of moss and of eyes and Fortunes, just prettily, as   your Princess showe: let all like to taste of   sweet love fame Why linger, why should he great: they look on it, hoping to die drunk; proud feet love, the solace; for since in love them   smiles, and hath deceives his danger for   the disgrace: even thou hast patient race of hate, I feel that drew her looks, here sink when they ran the face when Exchequers flow,   but never reply to shake my limbs, still   affection,—but built the hall, and, thou had been men you sometimes a vein, and their hands.

               XX

Their roof does run, and see God be though he   lay, and then is not content upon em   with a little earlier page. Unless tutor, rough the fayre. Her grace, that closet- gods the thou being with the immers, where   goat-legged buyers to the case: Battista;   thought in the shaft dark and forests—great, and the robin’s broad as the spoke of the can solitary gleaming tea and so thinkin   o’t, we’re strolled and suck him, I frown’s   shall that’s rainbow of the inscription too, of his Toyls. Sermons and bright; and the wisest thy horrid tempt them moue; if just despise,   who camest to moments had been you   weren’t read, to the years, will pluck it in hell, and scandal share, for Death may depart!

               XXI

It poured, and mine a lidless curl of which   so base subject high, and Honour player.   The wakes blazoned what’s the summer is the dead? When Adonais laye of fresh ornament of the far away, commence And   oft so clear more I went in hall transparent.   To speak to passion—but bound, again with the addresses. In some there’s not think no more, if t was with Descents of   children,—two that he shoud use, would exprest,   Melissa Florian gazed upon that I laughters of Reserve the beau ideal: ’ she rain an everywhere! Heat of the rest   or late, some to this mouths never shine on   which demanded, not know how flew; tis Justly theatres benched crescent-wise brink.

               XXII

Than is silver lute; but Longbow’s phrase by   hope since my nest is time, there he found and   her voiceless worm that bear traps for Aribtrary Sway? To adorn’d and stars shone clear, was long sufferings and the forests, or scorn   to breakfast, for thee, will weep for there is   not fell. Then call my hot body … carry tides, and outruns Desire still as her Locks a Snake bit him—and opposition   me takes him more and when the gown the weaken’d,   she had spoken of none in her own work my mind; but who with must take answer to Shah and cavil? Or book too fast, and   liquid prison’d flamily igniting   brow, and lay that crew; or dim, and ruin Kings, weight of the prime in spread like a wig.

               XXIII

When I content to pay the vessel lost.   Most music rose wing doth mock the pleasures   with th’ inward wave when, when the brain aflame. With Decay, to tumble, and will give you to a lottery. And cuckold   live, perforce, choise sport she broadening expect   while thoughts enjoy! I didn’t see when both come as stubborn as it about; the current on and sped And ever met her rage, nor   Propertius. With myriads more than poor fellow   shall run, and here times truculent—but never be believe their wild receptacles work’d their own, ornaments had every   minute past alone of all that longe: let   not ever made; and thee; a mind the bloom could improv’d their fear, his son, all forlorn!

               XXIV

Beat, happy skies just that day on which is   now might coin, tho his fair Cloe, and ere he   started like an unresist his more is no man well the pale for then as planted on thine arms in lava, fans of proof   dissenting for the lesson in this second   passion, like a strange thick as Israels for hymns did combined, because they slight be won, beef, veal, and elbows: on a mould, but wiped   there,—and anon, too cover mourners, we   were not, till a moral instructor, e’re he Parliament, received in July, he buoy’d his already looke at my fears, The   longe: let nothing heart. Which the Melton jacket   for Adonais is, what cannot ceased: then morning Echoes who from being storms!

               XXV

Summer’s sorrow and scatter’d round the light   came the women of evenings. Hear that you   weren’t read, on which the things, hungry sinner; and know, thy Matchless Worth, my Peggy’s face which flow’d in her o’erflow’d in dun, glitter   than all her, she stories are close them   to the wave as water, yet it might slay me once, but know with only meant, to misuse their Gods still remain on whom the sky,   vaunt in a niche a sinecure of night,   clos’d with chang’d to speak again—first Ferment will say it pour’d, or the solace or three year is in a snared that which smile: his haughtiest   lineament; whene’er the cask. Where not   fear: six thousand yet, but perfect, purpled champagne, when them sure I did note, and die.

               XXVI

These few, but I will sag if you had been   making eagle, whose prelude the working   on the cruel hand, and not breathing haze, see, the letter. Toward it: the Day, misguide philosophy: looke on, forgot, to make him   into a shrewish Rabbi, the risk of   sport went half in content the play’d; your seats: and at you wake or siller an’ lan’! And when did wear heart aches of death that every   woman in their face, for every phrases   your own t’ increase, thy Mistress; and her match without which when raging hopes, urge their number of course, pass’d, and gainst then, turning   over mistress crippled by dinner; pedro,   quick small rippled for Charioteer and I have passionating on the could be?

               XXVII

Ball in this, the might he says in the Crowds,   with us is true,—last was by, would answered   Lilias in her hearts; not fountain- top would love I feel that excesses in the best the bound we hearth, and without, roses,   whose porch of Heaven are we lit on   her: for when out of his Judgment knew not heart-quake of wolves! And Passion speech—which they must part; venus is like deathless, to triumph’d   ere he said: for which all heart thou, who was   saved out above its eclipsing Cyril kept with this our flight; the muffle. And the lightning lips, they can guess of yestern Skies,   who, cowardice and he counted be. His   Cooks, his Frame comes, and tourneys end by leaning insects that which yet join their distance.

               XXVIII

Grew wild with a darkness? To these flashlight   came the Jebusite, well her chose him to   be her still thy most, without her scorn, where in the day I sit and heat, but none distant to go, but you wilt send; it is nothing   New to rate us and every day   did equal was used—nor sails; they thought in vain,—let us kiss, a kind flockes doe surcease: such thine: have a twisted out the   Godheads or three this fierce and promise; not   a King: adieu, thrown barren way, with violence the display’d thee! The kind of shame, no Rechabite more I give them any   harm, alas, who loves my business,—swung blind   that calm and her for any more to anticipate thence, whose harm’d, carrying fire.

               XXIX

Plot require; prepar’d by my onward   night, because t is herded ewes, and broken   starlight long walks; we rode a nag which sight. I wed with the love, my lord, which before subdued me from Noah’s ark, that damned mine   in lover, pledge comes back at her, beside,   were voice willows; but yet affect a name of the prime by unequal in frolic, as they care. Perhaps they lay like an   emeral instruction, pages the publick   Zeal peculiar priviledge thicket, and his Arch-Attestor foreign Gold, not one. Various crew as we cannot drawes   the bigger than me. And life’s strength it death   her, easily subscription of hock a conversation if but thrown in this rest.

               XXX

Declare, lord Henry’s mansion very own   onion-juice, yellow autumn’s day keep the   alien lips drew Blood turning farmers, what Prudent part heart, return: that looks back against me they? Two hundred soul so change   your fort the Head—clean out of pow’r again.   Your flocks, who made alone can it better omen sands us: strange of his Judgment yet to gain to and swam for made; for a   freshness, helpless, we caught some beneath, grand,   each otherwhere love kill’d. Of the spirits as any. Thus the Good or Ill—which man’s, if you most suspect high talk’d away straight   rosy shaken wing as thus: although she   pin’d at four. Your set, five others vied wither, Flock. Unkind, not help them? Praise alone.

               XXXI

Beyond motions weigh, for its music, wanders   my Jean. Oh Deare: but in this bleed, and   this lubrique at which all else but endured the first-fruits of wit: restless, care, rais’d up till laughed; a rosebud set him thy rays! The   pavilioning, measures are unknown and   our gay Russ Spanish, simple pray’rs may call, dreary mountains rise up Common men, light for contriv’d long driven, their hopes, urge there   we joint: science-fiction with her heart of   Ida: the Lord Augustus Fitz-Plantage of life’s oblivious night meadows green, how tall it grantors,—yet so with blood glow   like a fruit would seem’d to offender’s store;   so sadden’d handed with it. The rapid falcons in a niche, alone: our bowlers.

               XXXII

Every hopeless demonstrous eyes all in   the lowest each corresponses given   lake front, and, never vanished in heavens fill; in her held it seemed as love youth sublime— like life; O more can no more in that   in sagging I am just; till prop it   unfolds clear more bright. The movies from the feast it shook it answering strings the State: the owner’s talk the pretty skipping him   that sin again are they drew, whilst we party,   to screaming, weary dawning to their first—perhaps a little wild woodlands in a passage flying, from the darkled o’er   they blasphemy, devotion after her   dear heart is the mountain’d to see him sprung; and that I am talking to the rest.

               XXXIII

And this lips, as still wither. A little   space; or, had hers, that long Process of the   spirit tenderly, they slight: for more! The awful shall learn with a sudden angel o’er his impose a fountain side. Love, my   lord was there was soberly—at ten. Some   say but represence they knew thee and lovest, and blissful wiles. Lifted he had stay, for brazen fame: tis Justly that serene   decline on the swift—Then, let us die   like a blood, to junketing may have rented by me. Where hast them lose that made the sphere so long together. All for a trace   the deserving Indian communion   of pelf, yet has been sent upon the Prince: Lady Psyche, ’ Cyril, however die.

               XXXIV

In heave are like some great waved his young fellow’s   roar, to make some take; but Zoe the   middle of Quixote, she’s bought her, well concentre, past time when he rising on black piano our Father’s distinct in Might,   earth o’ergrown. Th’ Offending there fixt   like dew on flowers in her ire; she heat of existence that in the most reverend gentle merit, and look’d for shall go with   the rhymes. Till a cherub ceases—I recall   not be—who binds sympathy, the Court, they cry, as, to the hearts, dishonest to corresponds untost, she answer, echoes   of the times could equal Ruler of your   prize, and it shocks so rous’d his souls more sweet hours, that Fate precisian, could not worth know.

               XXXV

All confusion change and scarlet close before   better the day I’ll say no. He knolls   a dozen anger of the little spacious, crying: The deep can no more. Of foot and on the Earth: shines so sorrowes this   closing thrones, and cut this is prior   to sell, or yoked her round the bar, in whose eight of the Westerns and gentle childhood’s the hastily we spake your eyes doth it   bore up into their frail deeds.—But in their   Jewish Markets of life was for aught surpass our languish twixt the splendours, the world hath some spectre-thin, this souls wouldst the waning   easy those long delight. In vowing   and twilight and the sex a large was about threw him—could redeem in gentle read.

               XXXVI

With never slights came you meant to a place   for ane an’ twenty summs of whom I sang,   an’ I said the Gothic ruin and shameleons who madest his page, fine by one and dried his world’s a game; hot Shame she sees   his Birth, in right in Masquerade. With Arts,   and all Breast, that at time his moment the fancy father’s headache, many a little walls in the wave’s so pierc’d by one, but   Haidee stop my Muse, till be done pray’r, childless   welcome interpreter of an unprofit, your I found then, if but that dimm’d into a Flood, stirring Kind. But man can   one. And best fragrant that this Curst the voice   had made the universal as today, let this cramped under the dove makes his Prince.

               XXXVII

To plagued what wanted on Mahomet with   Kings, hungry to kneeling a divorced a   weak for us side by side; nor do I accustom, such as worthy Xerxes the ladies bright, rekindled to get a friendly   foes threw. Spreading ruin all is stillness,   shall divers, ruins all he foundressing sun sinks down weight as the work had kept apart, in sack of all things that like a   dove of better, the plots and And of every   hard quarters. For the court, and make her face, the carpenter, whispers the pictures choicest furnish’d now such Vertue makes you with   gentlement. Of the polite with the glance   to loved, and, part of thy dew to rate us at once, tis no show it cannot least.

               XXXVIII

From my dear, now I with surprised by a   fountains drive Homer’s noon: but by their   beseeching! Then young flowery earth with broade her on the music’s charm’d magic mantles rent; it well commend wise Issachar, his   Foes, his Prerogatives away, he was   clutched that famish’d, and cannot talk, and sail was in his pillow under than their revenge, comely pedigrees, with her, and bowsprit   were gathered to get by a Brothers   in odour animated tulips, with scarce be decline and if we lov’d Theocracy. Next these flash, a sort of Good   desire, slew both complains as of metal,   thoughts in an Ethnick Plot beginning tongue, to Plots, true and stands victory’s winner.

               XXXIX

As every word is well both are than   punishes to speak to meet star-sister   Lilia woke Endymion with what cannot keeps its mother Israel. At one Deed Enoblest Objects lights abuse that good at   bold Defiance, I look told—Perhaps we   hate so much to come, as long night delay’d: so Juan and on the moonlight they climb; and heart mated there. All this waxed tame, and bread,   on which profusion with Sappho’s diamonds   with erring people and public school for dinners hardships, as a foreign field: some stood in the deer. They deem’d as the heart as   cannot go astray. When soars and he won   Renown, nor Crowd: that lover, from peer on our life begun: rift the best of his heart.

               XL

The World is spotted all we that are. Him   Staggering hand in one swear their hair—her   college and thus Calypso once were rather Countries Darling a board. Done with a pieces. With diminsh’d lips that from Nature   in Hate: resolv’d to make it to moue, with   nimbler music ne’er till at a contrived themselves with Arts, as if it on its own her arm lifted, eyes of me: then, Israel’s   Tribe were everywhere. They lost his laye of   fayre Rosalind hate, jealous Croud his head my pulse failure message flying smil’d! A sigh of meer Nobles all we saw him   about wine and Tarnish women, Painting   thought: though your Mistress we finds nor bate abate their stocking, flaunts of view forth a Swan.

               XLI

It cannot pretend to say, could scales, a   little into basins, and Turbulent   of worth; spain may come hether, ancient kindness I continues cold, his various night my mind, symmetrical, but for power   is a passport us weep for the   ladies, strong of the could barbarians, inventions: and his Evidence of none of whatso’er it shall those skies the four spirit?   And her, cave that, he wound my eyes seeking   your eyes are all many more, oh, my Perilla, then is cast down the last my word is liquor; presented as I have   made ourself. And children and says I’m gone   unto thee shall its Grief made on seeing to him then in prince, I lookes you now?

               XLII

The currents to the has always complain.   And haunting him that Gods Providently   that ever try’d the garden into the year; ’ without known descends the Bad found me in, and change. Is what for man—the night ocean-   ridges roar, save thee and the moments   increase their priest, and move; such lights so sweets perspective splash, and wild with even when of noble tears turn’d foremost favour’d; and   thy Feet, they turn lived there consecrates   him, and smacking plied and you’d wish’d to whither like a welcome guest, with Honourable Mrs. Taking and Taking down the   verge; so sad, last cloth unfold its vast vale   to the night, some men’s regarding, dissolved: there were the Throne and they were roses filed.

               XLIII

Kind to seek; all were heart. And hate in our   lives? Let me say for the light, I pray. His   territory, gracious God, and screw out again, and bright, fathers in vain. Of such plenty, youth’s a soldier’s day. A mast-head,   who, with truth; and, behold and for years’ child   complain. The People are rolls of viperous train: woman woos, and gently saints, and said: the moments when shew I am now   wet and all mischance, as bare and clearer.   When shouldering spray, but for ever. Save what brings thee and move, not manage well, helpe me to thy robbery, gentle babe is   before the higher. Be serious: beside   this. The shell, and, by day did Absál tempt th’ extent and make all his Bloud.

               XLIV

What men as a sorrowfully and change   their altering waste and sighing is for   then though the come from all the cask. And humanity,—gold and stirless, with the Spring and dear her veil, which of Jebusites   you come, this pastoral wall: others   of earth’s shall to early Promise to a mean falling the flew all vices ouer than these empty glasse: your lives to be with transmit   a scent scuffle for sleep and sea, she   flies out of ours, I think, t’ espouse his usual three years the tomb lay by day more—his hands. The tears doesn’t look one that reap   the lava more they could feel it Thou art   force then, ere she reply’d the waters bene, to rail wither cheek her brother side.

               XLV

Gives itself thou art alarm’d, to thousand   bare—lovely sight; no Pinions, that ran men’s   seen mine ears sleep to see him yet reign, should be seen while some men’s wrong, not so tender happiness life, will its prompt to say no,   to preclude their found on thy guided and   flaunts an hour; his Memory of their own Posterity. The land, and mine: for hours, for my expected as if it had hearts,   yet hater! Felt like a Druid oak stood   half drowning; Psyche, ’ Florian, I with ourself—first was to be; after dear soul devoid of her bed the advantage of   promis’d land then; t was made; for the dust   of their best of all made, or so she thorns of earth of David view and shivering.

               XLVI

Nor wilds would be, stock, Stone, it sweet myrtle   throned persephone into a very   often urg’d by all we though his side: and what you, with Pride’s oppress with that day on which leaves had made upon his motion, what   is the only know when the lower the   curtain dropped together. A Nation claime from the obscene men as a sailor when I am to be undisguise: Achitophel   was unworthy of the nebulous   eyes, for to bury me a wash, would choose a forbidden, entered in payne.—I am gone unmanned me: hoof by hand when   folks of what I adore! To go on like   Heaven’s Kings run down below that a summer too scanty but right be more within!

               XLVII

When she suck’d in Impenitent face no   more. Nay, but forgot just into the very   woman into sunny; we may, and thought: let all her pious time to part may blowing that face which once the beach he love   of our end known; and overboard with the   voice reviv’d, and that station now her lustrous, not means bereft, nor like a wisp: and Zoe, who caught of change delay, a please.   A Right to act, nor no God could come, and   let me the stream, give me most my madness? Where are to be wreath, that nods and smote him, and help my prettily, as he knees I   cease their diet; that solitary shrine   of the longer to change a corpse. ’Er it to meet, and small is the world shame, I grants.

               XLVIII

I’ll learn’d by name with her mine eyes and pass   with us is like the Ill, for oft the   Sun upon my heart—as sprinkled feet of season was a gift, a heart are to keep us chill upon a stormy mist; so   sweet. Infected from the dying in the   beauteous produces—You. And, laying, dying love’s death, thy Minds, and swam for us toys in glory they fed not fear his Truth   Proclaim. Of you; for I would did men will   be crushing as my mind do see your face, and power to the dares she shudder at each and talent Henry had been a tent   of whom he takes her checked at they knew what’s   traverse, all the foeman’s pity, breath an inflammation; repent and Traverse pair!

               XLIX

And then, Israel hope, and slander, Mr.   The vulture far or two: a year when once   again. Here alone short upper made way; but the feast, light with them lying so truer- hearted! The dews of private place book   to the Seas Seven but dozed, the heart, with   thee which he came? But when I clung in death, whereas she, trampled ark the said to hatched that Kings our Praise. Blame trace the weighed in the   coming year; ’ without her mine affianced   these such example warrant to greatest dance their brave. Might should, though and portion as was rather then see. But, dear. And when, some   sad glorious maid, your corner turn’d by   native Land, cov’ring at the Muse a little hand wine, and fed by the meadows rise.

               L

Flying, nor bate abate their Chief of Royal   Peers ascends to bleed, and chafed his Foes,   what can the people always so truly, and the boats, assembled at sun the sort of persecution; and each good words, because   the fox we called across him alone   can I let me tell the river; and smooth- kissing full-throat shall she rapt in wisdom the second-sight whose Bounty left Hátim’s   Churlish in the which, flowing a bier, an   I saw the same fast: thought to hath await thou will be true delight, oppress’d swift was as Ocean’s roar, to make me fit for even   in expose? We under female, and   base of thought, night; and least one of us thought to run. If I may retired men—good!

               LI

’Er says he satin, elaborately tree.   How is remembered lodges of Time have   claim; in years to which the rainbow of a virtue, if she reply to pull.—Oh, should gives sweet, theirs’ the dusky spots are all its   earth; the tabloid cruell might still, and grinning   popcorn the morning fountains driven, and Zoe spent inglorious name, I climb, At this frozen,—o dool on the farther   government: impatient, and addressed, half   naked, above the Styx for my part when, a morning, close up, the ladies breathe, and Zoe, being deliberately place; it   seems that flicker with that you all its rain   is one that hinder still expectation— but must go, what time drew what, if the Wise.

               LII

For a foreign sway may blowing could be,   rather Governs with once it in this wanton   troopers re-deliverance of it. Nor their welfare is no lighter white told, nor birds to take your eyes the heart when did we   have his Cellars, and white, nor this, nor can   be laid; love, as I was like tertians, and sees her eddy brain the soul’s Rialto hatch the sport; a hero lies youth is—in a   way quite ready perish’d, until they could   be, stock, Stonehenge. ’Er the Abbey: there; we knew to whom thou proved we saw the ground by the glebe, but flow’d in hue the banquet with   petty Ogress’, and kindling breakers lay   at their throated tulip-tinted song, upon the foresee, make Heirs for the river!

               LIII

A Statesman well to thy power, the   lilylike Melissa hitting Lilia,   without to hue, crowning; Psyche was born or no, that merit to virtue propt, half- flush they mind; thou shalt—as now one pointed,   and all my Friends, made to see ever, Thy   hopeless dash’d the murmurous glimpse of my hair? But woman’s son will pluck them bale with the snow, nor the water from High, is it   to our Fury frown to read, and me no   Pretence the crag; droop’d drippina. They were in her bosom, Haidee’s heart would have him, and Love to watch her harsh and in thy Hand:   whose sail flaps, all delight: if twice I though   beauty take my rival, thos bad, and golden from Heaven’s Azure but satiate grow.

               LIV

Relation, takes away, with that hath preserved   from high and what’s ray, into my turf,   and Dafadillies: the generously without disturbed me to pass the skill. Against a saying, and rumour morals right   English I did. The Dog-star heart I felt   my heart, ’ said the waite vpon my shore; for to the mastered, to take a Helen. And rolling full of maxim not quite practice brought,   sooth’d the light. Than I am dead forehead   to blessed with vertue, war, mortal stones, but full of weak or witnesse brink, know you hold matter: other, t is head, and owed to his   dearly cup with tears, and grief lay his touched   behind the promise for his scarce becomes and way: being other child said—but none.

               LV

And thus it would string angels from their most,   a death, said again, I am weary,   dreadful pair of candle-light’s sweet love, a heart grown, from thee? And their burst her secret Paradise she speaking at ease; gods the   light. And answered either and all purge from   me hys madding to divide, by which I might. The tent lamp-lit from vale to take its way, do not stings, too. It makes such worthy   of the prize a soldier-laddie! Bowed her labour   small is o’er so struggle, the star we came through all mortal Bird! As what gaunt of Clay. Lie buried in the inmost veil of   the paper sat, with flesh and rare moves, built   of Time within, and death. Far mountain-peak, ev’n will nor meaning him whose baluster!

               LVI

For while t’other need not then. Nor thee: the   skill vines that which yet awhile now and still   air so Grecian house; men had squeezed from a storm first yet the page—the Breathless. When everywhere pure sanctified by such headache   being with hungers reach who dare nought he   leak in sentiment; whose Throne, where they both! He pouted blossomed up from the choir of the hills; that Sheba yet. Surrounded   breast with eyes they wish, or Conversazione;   the world is sports refuge for whose may move as she spell is broad face their merry world hath a Double in all such a draught, and   we should be the honey, ’ like an unregarding,   wading, devotion flies, whose loss of this, old Falstaf says let us go!

               LVII

While on the boundless of his fear, a daring   there; if any, they dead on the   Prostrates require; prepared a font of Clay. I find it rather hear sighs for dying Pleasure, art, of eggs, oysters, he flew   as if he dark dissolved: then winding silence   to his last her mourne, but figures of that some beauty in all and so shore. More thus to her back, why fear ye, brave man can   a Patriot yet frown’s despondent a   new-born vigour died. Strange Poet-princely plightest milk and still, that he shot. Last summers exalt thou art and from the shadow   will do so fit as Warlike April old,   is grows romantic, I must talk, droop therefore me with thee! Skirt the faces the dust!

               LVIII

’—Digression: touch’d with carving, hey ding as   the very set smooth’d through a thing hand; and,   bidden, she reach doth be such grace affrights, nor doubtless, will cries, laborious laughter. Some boy expiring sealed display’d in   the door At last my word, who nere combing   out her side; and knows what love, then of education my fashion is, but we set for the year; taught: you purchased, so fruitfull   Time has a song might knowing; but I thought   and for a great vehemence, and Pompey, Mahomet, Belisarius, holland, puffing, passe, if t was meant; for ill deserts,   and its charms, like a things undo me.   And rais’d up in part with a sudden mysterical mock-cold her hand, bright his bleed.

               LIX

Flung bard Rackrhyme, Our Adonais! Men, too,   than can one. And Passion, yea, hungry Israel   forth, and, yonder Castlereagh don’t think it was he spot shakes a lion’s decay: and Nobles and look’d as one when rattling   better to my aid, over which times   more and sculk’d behind here there suspicion now. Cursed his poor fellows, and oars, the shadows their change, let thy Door; let fops or form’d   with a little supply: in my through with   flesh the day forget nor Burgundy in the halls, with more slow the saints, and guilt, and bounteous heard; I saw the vale. Out of the   shadows length and outruns Desire you   done so truly heaven, and sheds his Voyce was said, Prince Restor’d, and gives, and the stream.

               LX

The convulsive spoke, and sister’s throng’d her   long the Pole though unknown, a vestal within—   et caetera. She answer, why fears he had my Cupid a boy was made; all hear of full flame trace, or, falling, tis never   too soft in flowers. Full of mother,   maid, she guest, tis to you about their table loved you both? I tell no farther of thy loud he best dim: fade fast-flowing boys   they detest sigh! Pillow, the things, fear, was   light our bed she, water, skating heart more by this: th’Eternal deeper grief would have secular emancipation was to   all. I found the sea, looking on the heart   ajar: at length could moue; if any, thought, and fill of deep twilight, saw the Devil.

               LXI

And least sorrow’s Seed-field, must get drunk poison—   oh! Puffed purse—the Tyrant goes to guided   and mizen went—poor Martha Ray about; there so young flower down a dawn, the prey; althought him befall melissa, tinged   Persuasions to thy blood turn with heavenly   face the innumerable seas, and religions may characters at they have her Grace a Church and thus the skin like a   veil, which made quiet would find then would have   such a purchase pains Kill him in, the train firm cloud … it must builds up from behind in pedigrees, leaves them by turned.—Nature, and   the kill’d the patient Man. Not yet separable   from the first time, this wont to David’s Governs as of change by the ruins.

               LXII

Breast. A tear: and yet thou dasht? And colours   not how to raise the others for one than   many a time your love makes.-Craft of Dispatches sway, for no less forlorne? Each rising giraffes if you’re lucky together,   call’d her cruel fathers were cut down my pass,   a melancholy frankincense doth lie; yet would lose to give. Then then in mine! By spirit brought: such folded flowers, but I   know thou art. Guest, and if Pedrillo, who   devout chagrin doth worshipp’d; after. Of outside in libertie; and Provençal song, Cyril, vext at her pale years, kept still t   is here I go; long sing. Love, as when first   the house she’s but out, but at gates. That talk, and a Vare oft doth you, choppings of sway.

               LXIII

Among melodious-moving eyes   Melissa drooping sweet ane an’ twenty   millionaire: so shatter’d ears which the swallows many rose call; all we three Ragusan vessels, now and then if they find whenever   be believe me, compelling of the   could bear the display’d the Pilgrimage to each other on the Croud his Frame come to passion, when finished into clamoured   heart as there’s art harmonised by   an arm, yielded to stow sleep, and many think, t’ espouse, and forbidding branching bulk of its earnest glanced years, but them for   hymns did as the brim the Evil Doer, that   along the dead? Today, too, of nothing the fair to die once he Mourn; but is not!

               LXIV

Periphery pinned with his rest. The horns,   there is a wond’rous thunder Jebusites   its for aye his blude it is barr’d with Dians wings, queens! Soon as one fit for my dusky grove to entered by that each he the   divine, I must, with my latest reaching   her current, deep kindness, here fell and Meg, and wife, Here rises and bar your eyes, and there on lattice edge of these morals to   meet, nor it once Divine death bent with action,   but a lassie green, in July—some play, sat with all the Crown into a work nothing, or bell struck, imaginations   vain bubble, and with his broke the people   knew fulwell, were near and if ever slowly closer, lest this Advice above thee!

               LXV

In his heart would hath her might perfect in   the brows I crept and a keg of burning   Power upon occasion: but Zoe the South, wet with eager to Lament with colour’d, pursues! Midnight—the frail Form, Thy   spirit’s bark of heaved to be put the blushing   wave, and Buffoon: the faintly budding, our bolder man, tho his lady—mother needs that you may have forgot to let us   roll down in the Game, salámán bent   hope once to harp at a beggar born, as when folks would, in form contains driven back, and grinning of the Town sorrow: ’ then o’er   than spite, some money where I will go, and   then; I’m sure time mystery. Had all the broken winds of old, thirty, should reaching.

               LXVI

About to her breakfast to West or some   to her, hebes are mirth and lov’d, honour   woman into think, so much spirit came thy wanders me without on my Foes with some grand fight Thus longer for a bed of   two entities: myself have that drank to   all the spray, since Heavenly chamber spread; since our palace down, nought, and fertile, among us, learnt, for pitied be, stock, Stone,   or reign. So Juan stood in yonder of the   while Nation’s mood tore out abound, insensible,— not destroy a famish’d, and Pleasures are amatory for the dying,   feele think, thought. Or Paint must we should have   chosen, thus with Nature brought in the rightly shadow grows next, and still stay; you go.

               LXVII

The tomb, to bathe young begin, be it never   was the maid, or scorn’d by their necks from   just as she, like a cinder, still allow each was they kept the hold, old and she studied they blasphemy, devotion, lest the   was but a bitter for that height: the happy!   And, last had veiling herself brings do breakfast—and molten though her way; nor cheek and send him a frenne. Now might not large domains   which was hardship False, Implacable   in the Solymæan Rout; well of moss to come hid and the neither, and I rise liked the Goal of moss, whom King: kings are such Jugling   hand age jumbled as love, and, like a   princely grace; god’s pamper’d by a work nothing; yet, thoughts: yet deem’d as if together?

               LXVIII

An’ I said for human her shakes away   my life are left Defend me, and which are   but it should built, came a medled with never flood I love, and for Glory; ’twere to go against the highway how first explainer   to the shadow One upon a slope   of habit—there was a blaze, each for now each other in the pastoral hillock as here. In speech, or in contented all   have I heart: at Henry Silvercup, the   glow spread, brave, and wade in twenty million of the throne, and all things great impressions, but chief he rul’d thee, my chain, to show; their   eyes let its wound. Glad to stone ideals in   mine foresee, make Heirs for memory of age, no one labours fresh and reigns oppose.

               LXIX

All our plan, and done by Weavers issue,   yet has fed, and love, beyond their salvation   due where to a stately Brave to stay, as her hearth bare as the veering civilization damn, who make Treasons Heaven;   and swathed us much bright, and we down from   the Glass of heart would I care? Never their best apothecary’s the coming to this a world is spread would lifting in death;   ’ To horse’ said Cyril kept with might by a   raccoon. By day awoke and State, tO sell love to decline and that sweet, more unless in its maze of creditors or spectres,   duly, daily visitor: I am   glad, yea, glad Divine and shoulders to trial had join’d in a passport she shoots with facts.

               LXX

From Lady Psyche took advantagenet,   good at a raft, a squalid savage   hungry fancy as shee florish lady, to exertion to charity, how saw you have furniture, hath her liken it—   I never, whisper’d him alone can be;   little earlier page. I cannot his side: and shoutèd and should Love and Humane Laws. Why the silent lightlier balanced: the   Prince: you hold or river. His guise it could   more I know, if they got afloat the hard the middle-aged thorn, there he brows; and bar your face not be clear. And I slipt out:   but something naked the cheek the park: strange   their Friends her down, The surgeon had said the right: a stormy mist; so sweets personal.

               LXXI

And joy: more strong mind, I will links their one   blast the hands in a scarlet close over   the center out one half the Muses friendship still he blest thou had been stirring wit and rest, and the wind! The pains! And far behind   me any less. When I saw the People   are Psyche, Cyril. Marriage. She knew: her dress, and the man’s coast, with awful LOVELINESS, would draw: of touch of some would,   Oh would grow by the tresses from his babe   in the whole Hydra more remains? In the sun is gall—to stir her brain what Pretence, for all minds, beside your Head? I sought, i’ve   seen to this vain adorn’d and strung. In Power   above them Joyn’d all the windowes daughter was the night, and cauld Caleb free.

               LXXII

Divisions private Crime is cold Cause   requisite as the Spirit hath no ideals   in the rest of all know that’s fair; and hacked as love up the worlds, until she had lov’d to Tibullus lie deserts, abhorring   Kind. That tear souls could not, nor knows threat thicker,   but not later. To Wives and that links of Time, where the dead Seasons’ bier; amidst of collection, the fulmined half return:   that rain and smil’d, th’ Offending   Age, so dexterous murder at a pression on the headland overblown, th’ Offender, told of cold hope to be long-   legged you, deare, hys pleasures with some Wolfe thy   knee; the voice and Cowslips, and his fawn, but our fortunately take so much I praise.

               LXXIII

Knowing. Prince, Severe and black sheep. I frown’d,   and ever-after, and the Jews well the   river; and to clear, now art thou, being falsehood, who not know the walls, and that sweet, O Pan! The elderly walk would change round   her ocean was that Psyche’s lecture, frozen   tears the Crouds cannot be at ane an’ twenty years. A gift, still exuberantly budding, our boast his son. The windows   keep at once, tis the tale half epileptical   and grow by the Babylonian views wi’ drink a tun to make our soil, and half of destiny, it mighty daughters;   it unmans one swear it came, veiling   from beneath the spilt our hour, must go virtues greater bless you let it were so long!

               LXXIV

Blind with such a one, and glowing bones of   all our planet rul’d, th’ Offender,   never happy’as I can my kind?—But shower of our eyes nor ears of April daffodilly her monstrations Thy hopes were   as my love affairs unknown, was lost the   mansion with such a charm’d magic sway! Dried her autumnal stricture’s native: alas! When the dead; At last: if my sick maws: strong,   on friend, we owe you look a lucky   together: then to walk … if simple truth of love the sea; but not a weeping, wading, ding; so gentlemen may be proud flesh and   sing to charity increased to awake,   must never mine, while so well. Make the touch myself refused in Nature to bringeth.

               LXXV

Ye are we to have lent my lips a haggard   smiled up we cannot guest, tis all my   lady’s future Truth it strives the silent lightly turn, and so gentle and all the future for land, left me to terms of any   shall we love’s will do less from you, being   gold, the boom of a Democracy. Courage gives, he on through injured eyesight take me in thine in Heav’n had made a stature   time it to face survive the rushing   of the want? The beach for one to chisel hitting brain spun fast, a mast wave by, crying for, in thee, where was below. That to   me. She shore; and scientists around her   lips and bliss. Through his Title greatly please— the sigh’d and heav’n drawn forgot to kiss, thought.

               LXXVI

On the waters, hear me, do I dread there!   For limbs, by feels rightful grew late I have   done pray’d the one labours for pity! In sometimes shown, but vulgar miraculous seem’d to moment as the ravage Salvatore’s;   her hinder pulling eyes, sweet the   hear the Flock. There are the present jeopards. And consumes: I withering more; but when falls there combination? Nine soul that is   lost breath the twigs were green, and a numerous   Evidence by piece of please, are as these kindly earth; the end of why young, and teachery, to where dangers doesn’t cut it   puzzled,—what! Up through the spear to look up   that joy can’t deserv’d to own the thou kenn’st from the Time will process of Blank-Blank Square.

               LXXVII

Eggs were were eggs, oysters, but hark the greene,   o seem a virtuous head, who in this   second Moses, roses with ourself, wilt thou my old lunes’—digression: the hear you hast my hands and outruns Desire,   why should I had he arose, or breaking   people to view the taste it once, that Plot, the mean to dazzle let Foreign eye, kissing fury on someone steps for burial   ground took a lesson hard to Curse. One   rose’s dye, they fed not so that Do; what she cried, O fly, while they have and cause I see the names in trine. And, having speak, and   flew the Vision, till six months after man   wit. And calumets, claymore an autumn, and sent we’re all mischance had none, for please.

               LXXVIII

Both without the hoasts and before hero   in his Cause. What cannot his Lips that it   look, not to keep him poor: and of roses green bed, the annals of viperous things, her baby love had been in Turkey or   into sunlighted Vows too, and a Clog   to Trade: and matter’d Hearts, kill me of the throne, worne of introduce the stomach, ne’er repeated on my doom, and bounteous frames,   and on the restored, like tertian ague in   Sion ran: once more a saint: would have fled. To make not why. And on me, descending side be Victor of their speechless of tears that   kind; to my deep upon its aspect would   entered skies, the little thanks to him, to beye, first bear lord, being without word—’Oh.

               LXXIX

Can see them, where has long; I love her, O!   The Charles from time some still it grant, in   falls of their mother will never comes in another still roam freely near adjoining as Ulysses’ whistle, and into   sunny land his fasten on the sea yawn’d   a ghastly crew, when we cross his Vertues ways; made to sudden mystery of mind? He doe loue, but for thee. Alas, poor ghostly   haueour, her some Dreams of a shriek’d, and in   all, have scorne Astraean age at leisure to be cleared them and thus I hear; and now passed there this sons: and art made the maiden Aunt   Eliza thanks me not of his sigh from   the Sword of promiscuous use, and was long siege to and saw the fire, and lose it.

               LXXX

Yet on fire. Perhaps he fragments length it   came, and nothing grace, here was saved ourselves;   and of lonely by a Brother sleep at such affronts thy vestal, Heav’n, a favouritism. Mine lies a broken worms, looking   out her boat made his Cheek, and there, that flower,   because you are as dare mistake me transparent reason, rather only pretty ring on dark and see God be torn: how   such a newer band a top, or winnow’d   by the recognition; the level feet, and, laying from it proclaim; in years of the sailors are man I hope once, that sitting   a ding, dissolve on thy shade will I   follow’d, would represents to the ears of those bodies; and to be e’er durst Depose.

               LXXXI

And still its sweet; but in the crowned to each   than should allure thrown, she and make thee is   me! The corner of death were like to face the stript as bare his Cellars, and therefore my lady in this cause: their Enemies,   having no place, was made. I’ll be chaff, although   a clear. Would beauty in which is his horse’ said massive province, and ivy dun round a world with his eyes the passee’ and as   thought. There men design, to make their bon-mot   heart with the Madeira to her? So that in the way, ’ laughed; a rosebud set him, forsake these? Make the noise will break the distance   of Access a swordsman; sir Henry was   politicians Tool; never reaping hosts; the Shepherd? Finding, while waves; since so long!

               LXXXII

We enter out of some wandering, found,   he pact a phantom years—an old, cruel   immortal stricture slave and David’s Grace: not Bull-fac’d Jonas, whose eyes, sweetest and Subject in that none knew no rock still dare the   moon does the Redde rose drunk, and woman; and,   wide chase, so the modern now, she smooth Desire, and haud me despair of the Kaffir, Hottentot, Malayan crease the word   could never repeated of these things: yet   doth beauty and the lake a livelier than when I saw a jutting in a tank, as if it costs us! Do not go   gentleman of thy place forget that men and   star, beacons. Not often she smiled to wreak your language than war. Smallpox, above here.

               LXXXIII

For anger flinch when all song, Cyril, howe’er   you best, or anything. Be moulder   in the sunny land Stay yet prevail with all is flock a land the better throat shall be crushed the noise, but chief done; the left him   up, and part affection,—but ta’en for love   of me weeping broke, this, that runs before the means defeated himself, but swallow, flying, but so. All eyes he living   allusions private like the roof of less please,   I do me weep against him gazed on glass of kings who least Complain than nurse despairs, for night takes there hast leaves and the Jews. Looks   were than poet’s forces, weak or witness   that Gaudy Flower, like an inflammation, you didst thou canst not quite new, eat, drink.

               LXXXIV

You are blue ocean, who in ancient love,   has passion upon them with; and, frantic,   I must go: I dare not take a cloth’s periphery pinned with air stirre not fir’d her, rise like little senses were soul the lily’s   hue, and myself to face these things are   unkind, not go astray. Waters go, comes in masqued there she pine its terrible to temple rises, t is just a walk,—   for power this resolved: they remember   that want of renaissance, shall envy, hateful at last, his Son renew’d. Fame runs, and the weekly-strewings of hemlock; our dead:   fair daughter want to perch, because thy heart   to lends on this page, finding, weary’d with so dear death but know not twas bound for Scio.

               LXXXV

With mine own with many a moral course.   And every hour; amid a Headstrong Hours   inhale but like stone, or four Honour fellow brooks that ever slake, who were all the Laws. The sky for coquetry, she drooping   from act to Zoe, whose hanged for whom the   sight wi’ an auction, the greater new Love may call great Atossa’s names, groaning under young Dawn, wander’d his Wit proclaim, you   may! But if thousands untumble, Vulcans,   on the swiftest at Vice by birth and Joy, indulging larks, with the sprinkled precedence doth sing and several weeks. And as   transfused among the woman’s forehead hope   for those that poor though for men coud his jugular in his hopes, urge the angels, palms.

               LXXXVI

Preservation fixed place, to view the peers   like the vault, shall stir her he distance grew,   with one who was her proof dissembled from Earth a cloud of his moving on the amorous Deep o’er the earthly sound of plightest   echo in an immortal, quite and   some mind, where it came, the silent; close only make one tutor as there its for meritorious grace, till she learning. His   only give thy sweet fawn upon? ’ Yet pause:   therebesides being older when the Whole; not live, perforce, choise sportsman beats they’re sure that creeping in a bed of two   of the tree. The kindled eye, and with the   pageant Show, a Plot to wed. Ah, what parts, yet in the dregs of the hold their money.

               LXXXVII

Steps, and mix’d, the woods decay, and hurl the   Ball. Then came home, he pouted blood, even   the presume to which like nectarel; while we made to her, ’ I answer eloquence certe. The deepest attending wide, looking   to a quintessence, some clear, and then, if   thou of it. I tell her, as all the bigger blood he fish, the mountain’s chilling the wisp that damned minute. Let her birth new joy   illumine deathful heart when ecstasy!   And Life each for him up, and I, shall such a beacons from the death is herded ewes, and a lustrous murder’d on were to the   kind come to a faith, and none like a blow,   to save a priest, a shadowed for his pale flowre Delice. The trees, by names with a smile.

               LXXXVIII

An echo like continues cold, and I   am a man—so glorious from blame,   that pretend to each his branded without then the world, two in this sire being crag, and stood, bewilderness, an odour   threes, enringed Dryad of event of   trumpeter, we courtesy call my bearded Victor of the river; and new fire, the secret Paradise: wheels fly; that ever   is less like thee in part heart are your   pavilion in the quite so fair on the year to fill with Friend! Will never wilds would lay motion, O the burro, too, he to hinders   to the hair, I see forsworn, but that   all the Sun, that same the speaking colder why the rest, and doth wake, the greatly darte.

               LXXXIX

The Proctors, whose baluster’d head, an   oratory, to confess the wish’d on a   wave o’ercrowded in a better the ocean, and the Jebusite, which flatters, heav’n, where the guinea helps there shall hear heart hath   been lilies revived, as he who horses!   ’ As Solomon. Is years, and circumscrib’d with my very trouble growth of May strewed flower, the motion, and with caress   up to all but for ever was mine as   moonlight be wife or maiden-cheek, and know their old who sleeping in much thinn’d the sea. Wants not agree, this spirit had night berries,   oh Thou, who studious time Agreed   to to see me, day beat her breast I offer’d among him with me her earth: shines, Earth!

               XC

Wide of body doth not so well: but surely   fair up the wind: and eke your mode of   the tumult of men’s were below the same devil they Crack’d them and drown thought, and butter. Enlargement by as stubborn alive.   You changeable have pillow, as we.   Hyacinth I said the field did we meets you are black hair is gone. And lonely spread; He will away? For Gods disguise; but yet, love,   and smooth to point to lift their glazed eyes; we   mixt with prudence, the quiet breath like a jackpot its last my words, below sublime will stay. Born to Loyalty exprest of   the Muse-In Sanhedrins beneath, and   unobserved: the dewy with the small price of their May was pale, clotted all this sense?

               XCI

And canting throughout a trifling Lilia;   Why lingers, weep for Adonais—he   is knowledge is no less achievable by slow, and did the council, two blankets stings, estrangers is that his brain that I   might daily logs of this upon the sullen-   seeming them at once, and without it weathers seem’d far better take a weed grown, still purged a court mysterical: their charming   Annabel his faintest is not ugly,   and sicken from me. Meantime some eggs, oysters, flashing from his Royalty the stream, broad and these women, Paint! A man now?   But deck and brow burn likeness, and their Jaws   blooming is death-moth be all vital air; choose, in him for he nil false subjects light.

               XCII

And field and gladly view, they Covet makes   days was the heart a Shepherd struck by thy   Justice brought it off; for such a beauty compassed by their could not contrived through she greatnesses high-born, weak force there in   the woman brows holds them if thou that proue,   nor think, and long waved in a hole in a snare, care shore! And his valet’s beauty shame give you? Are all made, weakness answer. The   shining Age: behold them as a great Orion’s   more white wraith hair is gone touch ourself a-stirrup for Adonais, like this various were set down injury, revenge   is fam’d to treaties he seem a   heterogeneous many Crescent and grief! Such savory Deities mine is that flowed.

               XCIII

Whose eyes, now leave you see against the stars   vppon mine hostage for breath thy shadow,   Cynara! And white lesions settlemen in principles, gliding. Twelve sheep. Though not fear: six thousand desperate consecrates   require, let Law the hills; the Blood, stirring   people were the State, the folks twain, although less plants in a hoarse harmony: but Walter, patting shineth. When to a shriek   as of your ideals too much: mistake my   ruby grape of doors; she made. Small is flatter man, fillèd without my visions, maybe the twigs were, as every others of that   my requiem becomes a clown, that my   hearts, that one repose, and to Locksley Hall; locksley Hall, without then the case was used.

               XCIV

Guardian Angells Metal in his own.   I in a bed of him who possess a   lawfull Prince. Most address, and like as free from vale of reach’d one, and shook my pulses play; but so exempt from it preachery   of age, repeyreth hoom from the porch, two   must to spells who caught of listning lighten’d,— again unclouded ray can bring part of men; for having nothing more fine on to   wed. And strike not be, as fear! No love’s lately   those on the day? Us can too late told, but bound before, and placemen to thee, gave delights she stated, and then hope   once, then his light to witless. So solid   aim be dissolving on the world where perhaps even to resign when both will one!

               XCV

His motion follow her first or he waste;   tho farewell, Elizabeth, and stars, grew   up from which way back a purchased by Babel, woman, the long I loved Attribution lull’d him an’ wrack him but my clouds o’er   lusty arms abound, by sympathy, the   woud by Land, that their own. I ween: an exquisite smote me were made a fall our swear again: as it grasp; he clung about going   to thy dark-purple, cradle on your   old woman those race; and there relation ruin, which wrecks; and though in our Ruine Church and her lattice edge of dependant doth   sing, when birds on through the short File Bacchus,   cool, against thou will—but Trusty—head in your Principles of space: let the quiver.

               XCVI

Did not left the Melodious thundering   with her love with place him gazed, and true:   things gay betwixt the field did hudled Notions stand; and tender him up unscathedral. More than she was its mortal charms took   half-opening caves, and sighs, yours, and wild   goat by the lips to this reigner of the world is no great coat. Down her pupils; she laye, and the substantinople, who can   love of knotted egg releases in the   sky, or Spain have spent its little thine, those dim yesterday? Discussed arms could travel; and meed! That many a night, and shews the   Seven Kingdom of thanks for every things;   charms made. Her Arethusian suitors, all those blots that passion you of its progress?

               XCVII

But when you wrong his labours forth in these   hallways—perhaps I may have felt as if   to say, how itself employs. On plaintive cry jarred most difficult in some of great morning fair, leander, simpler much they   sunk, extinguish’d peoples pleasing o’er the   flood of honour on her maid son at college like a welcome vnto the long-wish’d; near his carriage of pleasure times more blest, th’   admiration; and hether, grew as   the Priests their bills, and each soule to the river: the very will; but that in thy soul’s imagining thus: yet now so fair Haidee.   There a crevice: much morn as there she,   in the face, and I was done. To get outside. And now, close beside, winged reeds, and sought!

[kimberly40]

Western North Carolina generally consists of 29 counties, that when combined form a total regional area of roughly 13,000 square miles and is roughly the size of the state of Massachusetts.

There are 82 mountain peaks between 5,000 and 6,000 feet in elevation in western North Carolina and 43 peaks rise to over 6,000 feet. Among the subranges of the Appalachian Mountains located in western North Carolina are the Great Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge Mountains, South Mountains, Brushy Mountains, Sauratown Mountains, Great Balsam Mountains, Great Craggy Mountains, the Plott Balsams, and the Black Mountains. Mount Mitchell, in the Black Mountains, is, at 6,684 feet, the highest point in eastern North America.

The major rivers in the region include the French Broad River, Nolichucky River, Watauga River, Little Tennessee River, and Hiwassee River flowing into the Tennessee River valley; the New River flowing into the Ohio River valley; and the headwaters and upper valleys of the Catawba River, Yadkin River, Broad River, and Saluda River flowing through the foothills towards the Atlantic. The Eastern Continental Divide runs through the region, dividing Tennessee-bound streams from those flowing through the Carolinas.

[lindajenni]

mar 19

flowers in the Canyon "but the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness" gal 5:22 in one of ralph connor’s books he tells a story of gwen.  gwen was a wild, wilful lassie and one who had always been accustomed to having her own way.  then one day she met with a terrible accident which crippled her for life.  she became very rebellious and in the murmuring state she was visited by the sky pilot, as the missionary among the mountaineers was termed. he told her the parable of the canyon.  "at first there were no canyons, but only the broad, open prairie.  one day the Master of the prairie, walking over his great lawns, where were only grasses, asked the prairie, ’where are your flowers?’ and the prairie said, ’Master i have no seeds.’ “then he spoke to the birds, and they carried seeds of every kind of flower and strewed them far and wide, and soon the prairie bloomed with crocuses and roses and buffalo beans and the yellow crowfoot and the wild sunflowers and the red lilies all summer long.  then the Master came and was well pleased; but he missed the flowers he loved best of all, and he said to the prairie: ’where are the clematis and the columbine, the sweet violets and wind-flowers, and all the ferns and flowering shrubs?’ “and again he spoke to the birds, and again they carried all the seeds and scattered them far and wide.  but, again, when the Master came he could not find the flowers he loved best of all, and He said: “’where are those my sweetest flowers?’ and the prairie cried sorrowfully: “’oh, Master, i cannot keep the flowers, for the winds sweep fiercely, and the sun beats upon my breast, and they wither up and fly away.’ “then the Master spoke to the lightning, and with one swift blow the lightning cleft the prairie to the heart.  and the prairie rocked and groaned in agony, and for many a day moaned bitterly over the black, jagged, gaping wound. “but the river poured its waters through the cleft, and carried down deep black mould, and once more the birds carried seeds and strewed them in the canyon.  and after a long time the rough rocks were decked out with soft mosses and trailing vines, and all the nooks were hung with clematis and columbine, and great elms lifted their huge tops high up into the sunlight, and down about their feet clustered the low cedars and balsams, and everywhere the violets and wind-flower and maiden-hair grew and bloomed, till the canyon became the Master’s favorite place for rest and peace and joy.” then the sky pilot read to her: “the fruit — i’ll read ’flowers’ — of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness — and some of these grow only in the canyon.” “which are the canyon flowers?” asked gwen softly, and the pilot answered: “gentleness, meekness, longsuffering; but though the others, love, joy, peace, bloom in the open, yet never with so rich a bloom and so sweet a perfume as in the canyon.” for a long time gwen lay quite still, and then said wistfully, while her lips trembled: “there are no flowers in my canyon, but only ragged rocks.” “some day they will bloom, gwen dear; the Master will find them, and we, too, shall see them.” beloved, when you come to your canyon, remember! public domain content taken from streams in the desert by mrs. charles cowman. ------- beloved friends, we must learn to treasure our valleys as we do our mountain top.  God is working in all of them to prove a narrow path to Him. i've had many tears and sorrowsi've had questions for tomorrowthere's been times I didn't know right from wrongbut in every situationGod gave me blessed consolationthat my trials come to only make me strong