#Puffer's Pond

[garudabluffs]

To swim or not to swim: Tests track bacteria in Puffer’s Pond 08/15/2024

Puffer’s Pond, a popular Amherst swimming hole, has been closed for much of the summer due to high levels of E. coli.

"As in previous weeks, the latest tests posted to the town of Amherst website show Puffer’s Pond water with unsafe levels of E. coli, a problem that appears to be growing in frequency in recent years. Last summer, the beach remained closed from late July until the last test was completed in early September."

“Puffer’s has total limits on E. coli and coliform,” Sullivan said, explaining that the pond water can’t exceed 235 colony-forming units, or CFUs, per 100 milliliters.

In addition, samples can’t exceed a geometric mean of 126 colony-forming units, or CFUs, per 100 milliliters over samples from the five most recent days. There’s also a formula for calculating the rolling geometric mean, Brace said.

When complete, the tests from Tuesday show 214.3 CFUs per 100 milliliters at the south beach and 248.1 CFUs per 100 milliliters at the north beach. But the geometric mean remains high at the south beach, at 213.04 CFUs per 100 milliliters, though lower at the north beach, 124.44 CFUs per 100 milliliters. However, if either the daily or five-day mean standard is exceeded at either beach, no swimming is allowed."

"Assistant Town Manager David Ziomek said this week that tests will be done upstream this month, during both dry conditions and following storm events, understanding that when there is wet weather, more impurities from runoff end up in the pond.

This testing will include a dozen or so locations along Cushman Brook, which feeds Puffer’s Pond out of Shutesbury and Leverett and extends below the Silver Bridge and the swimming hole, as well as some of the tributaries along the brook. Beneath dam, the waterway becomes the Mill River.

READ MORE Daily Hampshire Gazette - To swim or not to swim: Tests track bacteria in Puffer’s Pond (gazettenet.com)

[xjjxccx]

mdincau on pinterest

[frouse-enthusiast]

Saw you were looking for suggestions for Frog Dad so I thought I would give it a swing. I hope that’s alright.

Them all posed up like one of those cheesy family photos. Bonus points for matching outfits.

Puffer hiding in a pond with a Lilly pad on his head.

And IDK why but the idea of frog Grizzy in a bowl of ramen sounds cute.

Hope you’re having a day and cute art.

1/3 in response to this!

I don't have it all done yet but I wanted to update something up here while I had it!

Sorry it's sideways but I made Puffer hiding under a lilypad first

Matt did not find that funny

It's sideways again T-T

But I hope this was good for what you had in mind!

[razorblade180]

Fontaine Things

Aether:*picks flower*

Paimon:Is that Lyney and Lynette?

Aether:Not particularly. It never hurts to have extra in case someone wants it.

Paimon:…Do you know something Paimon doesn’t?

Aether:What do you mean?

Paimon:How many flowers do you think you’ve picked?

Aether:I don’t know. Maybe a couple-

400 flowers

Aether:…Well they’re everywhere I go! Has it really been that many. Guess I’m on auto pilot.

xxxxx

Paimon:Maybe the water isn’t so bad?

Twin sting rays appear

Paimon:Nope. Hate it all…

xxxxx

Boiling lake

Bennett:Careful guys. I don’t think it would be a good idea to-

Kokomi:*walks in it*

-3000hp…. +6000hp

Yelan:This is a thing?

Lynette:Walking on water heals you?

Kokomi:I forget I can do this all the time.

xxxxx

Adorable baby seal

Kokomi:….*tearing up*

Aether:*turns her around* Koko, look at me and only me.

Kokomi:There has to be another way. *glances left*

Razor:*holding blade*

Aether:No no, don’t look at him. *holds face* Only me. Focus on my eyes.

Kokomi:What if it has a family?

Aether:*sniffles* Let’s not think about those things. Let’s talk about what we want to do later. Wanna go book shopping?

Seal:*blinks*

Razor:(For Lupical, I’ll end in one strike.)

xxxxxx

Aether:….

A fish pond

Lyney:What’s wrong?

Paimon:He’s finding the strength to make this journey.

Aether: *begins fishing*

Paimon:Such bravery.

Lyney:I feel like I’m missing something.

Paimon:It’s a long story. This place doesn’t have eels or puffer fish right?

Lyney:I don’t think so.

Paimon:Good. That’s good..

[sunlightandsuffering]

Christmas chaos with the snippet of tension PLEASE

Okay this is the kind of decisiveness I was looking for here lol!!!

Idk why but I just keep throwing daddy kink in there it's like SO EASY IDK!! I hope its still hot and not cringe lol !

“Why are you being so quiet?” Eren hums, his hands shoved into the pockets of his black puffer and she hates that he’s so good-looking too, another irritatingly perfect thing about him. His dark hair is tucked under a grey beanie, and his puffer looks good on him, not to mention they match, looking like a power couple with their kid too, who Mikasa had also decided to dress in a cute black kid's puffer and a green dinosaur toque. They look the part, now she just wants to play the part of a real happy family. “I’m fine,” She lies, “Just cold.” “Oh,” Eren questions, immediately concerned, “Do you want my hat?” “No,” Mikasa shakes her head fondly, damn it he’s too nice! 

She continues to glare stonily out into the large pond they’ve set up, the glass surface sparkling with the night lights, the scent of mulled cider beckoning her farther down the path to the warmth and safety of the main area. 

“It’s fine,” Mikasa tells him absently, “I’ll just get some mulled cider or something to keep warm.” She’s given up on anything more interesting occurring, resigned to a quiet night of watching Nico be the cutest kid ever and eating overpriced food truck food and mulled wine. But then to her great delight she can feel his warm presence behind her, big solid arms twining around her waist. The warmth of his lips at her ear, his cheek pressed against her temple and fuck does he ever smell good, mint and his cologne mixed together, intoxicating. 

“Or I could warm you up.” Oh, fuck yes. She doesn’t say that, thank god, her faculties haven’t left her yet. But she melts into him like goo, a noise of complete contentment escaping her, a twist between a moan and a sigh as Eren’s lips trail over her jaw. “Please,” she whispers as his gloved hands come to rest on her waist, a sweetly possessive hold, and she rewards him by grinding her ass back against him, her hands threading through his. “Later,” Eren whispers against her lips as he tilts her face up, just the taste of a kiss, “Gotta keep an eye on Nico.” “I’ll put him to bed at seven,” she promises, “No late bedtime tonight.” Eren chuckles, the sound vibrating over her skin like music to her ears, “He’s not gonna be happy.”

“Too bad, Mommy needs time with Mr. Yeager too.” “Daddy,” he hums darkly, a promise, and then he’s pulling away, turning swiftly to catch Nico as the little bugger launches himself at them, and she’s struck by the fact that Eren is so undeniably good at this, that he’s had an eye on Nico the entire time. 

[the-everqueen]

hi!! it’s cold here too. what do you think Lucienne & Rose’s winter wear would look like? 🧣❄️

stay warm! we (the collective city it's just me here) are prepped for potential power outages but i hope you have layers and heating and hot beverages.

this ask is so fucking cute. Lucienne is obviously practical above all else. she's got a thick knit beanie for her head. she's maybe got one of those ear-flap hats if it gets Really Cold. she already dresses in layers in her professional attire, so we know she has a pair of long undies. she CLEARLY owns multiple knit and slouchy cardigans. she's got a long overcoat. she's got one of those head-to-toe puffer jackets. there's a variety of jewel-toned scarves. she sheds layers as necessary and folds them up neatly on her chair or desk. Dream has given her a little magical heater that looks like a pond lily that offers light and keeps her desk inks fluid. (this bitch ain't never switching to digital or even ballpoint pens.) i imagine the Most Daring she gets is a fair isle knit sweater or a beanie with a pouf on top. she's neutrals to monochrome but if she's feeling spicy there's a deep burgundy cape with some gold stitch detailing on the hems.

Rose lived in Brooklyn so realistically she knows what winter looks like. pero also she was presumably a college student so she's got an eclectic thrift wardrobe going on. we know she loves a sweater vest. like Lucienne, she tends to dress in neutrals or deep toned colors, but i bet she found a North Face puffer that's like, lime green at a buffalo exchange for $20 and she snagged that shit. i DO think she'd be into the scrunchy knit leg warmers trend. leggings. midi wool skirt. patterned sweater vest on top of a sweatshirt/pullover. long knit fingerless gloves. any combo of beanies or head scarves to keep her hair from getting snow or sleet in it. none of these things are in colors that "match" but somehow she's making it work.

in the LA guard dog au she has to donate half her winter gear because SoCal just does NOT get that cold. ever. she needs a slicker and some long sleeves and a couple sweaters. probably for the first five years she's one of those transplants who goes out in shorts or t-shirts in January when everyone else is bundled against an imagined ice age.

for some reason i imagine it snows more in the Dreaming when it's Daniel rather than Morpheus. because he's a little cotton candy snowflake man? because children like snow days? because Morpheus walked around tits out for god knows how many millennia and that seems uncomfortable if it's also subzero temps? idk. anyways. imagine Danny and Luce sharing hot cocoa. imagine Morpheus and Calliope making a snowbeast with their kid.

[likesplatterpaint]

How many pufferfishs do you guys have? And any that are none puffs?

THAT IS THE QUESTION LOL

I've done posts like these before, but this is an updated, condensed one complete with collage!

These are our current puffs: Bonk the F8, (4 yrs), Burd the GSP (8 yrs), Yamuel the Potato (2 yrs), Blips (x 10, collectively almost 2 yrs), and Waldo the baby fahaka (2 months). They all have their own tag which is just "(name) Feesh." or "The Blips" If you want to see them all at once, check the tag "Gen and Mike's puffers"

We have had several bettas though Mike (justifiably) put a moratorium on that species some years back. We have a community tank of gold dust platies (The Guy Fieris), 2 honey gouramis (Soup and Lemon), 2 mollies and a pair of Bulgarian Seal Point Angelfish (Bluecifer and Blillith)- their tag is "Pond Tank." We have 9 axolotls as well- Bibz, Meatball, Noice and their children- Vector, Pixel, Rigatoni, Pasta, and Robit, all tagged Gen and Mike's Lotls

I have been keeping puffers for a decade now, so a few of our other sweet departed babies below. We lost Louie most recently in Oct 2023 and I miss him desperately. He was almost a foot long. Waldo has big fins to fill. Feather was my very first puffer, and is tattooed on my left arm! I will probably get a Louie Tat some day too.

Thanks for asking! They are our pride and joy.

[marierg]

Of Light and Darkness: The Rising Darkness part 2

Pairing: Obi Wan Kenobi X Reader

WARNINGS!: Cannon typical violence, language, Depressive and stress related descriptions, stim shots and over use of medications(didn't know so tagged in case), injuries & not appropriately treating them, JANGO FETT! (we love him! but definitely a warning)

A/N: I take no credit for the movie dialogue that is all the work of the wonderful Mr. Lucas! THIS IS A LOVING WORK OF FANFICTION!!! With that said I did take more than a few liberties but I tried to pull from the film and meld it into a cohesive piece. Much love to all the prequels and the folks there in!

PS- I've been stuck with writers block for these latest chapters so it's going REALLY SLOW! I am so sorry guys, I'm doing ma best. Definitely gonna take a break after this arc to build up a few chapters so hopefully this doesn't happen again.

Picture Credit: Lucasfilm and pinterest

Words: 7000

Masterlist Next

“Et nomine Kaf, et frappuccino, et soda and chocolate... Aaaaahhhh Fuck here we go.” You muttered the funny little chant to yourself before exiting the lift.

It was a long day already. The changeling's death, the autopsy, debriefing the council, the meeting with Padme; you were done with the day much less the week. The jorgan fruit to top this cake was the council riding roughshod over you all. Sending Anakin on this protection detail solo was not a good idea, especially after what Dorme had reported back.

Moping and complaining to you was one thing, but it wasn't acceptable on an assignment. Even less acceptable to the person they were assigned to protect. Taking a deep breath to remind yourself yet again that he was young and still maturing, you resisted the urge to knock sense into him repeatedly. Entering the guest room where Anakin was currently trying his best to get dressed did draw a wan smile though. He was fighting the material, trying to fasten it like a robe instead of a shirt.

“Pull that any harder and you won't have but your trousers and vest to wear.”

“You sound like Obi Wan,” Anakin turned sourly to you, he could already sense the lecture coming. “I'm a Jedi, not a fashion model.”

“Oooh someone's in a mood I see.”

Anakin threw up his hands in frustration, “I look like a puffer pig on Lifeday eve.”

“Yes, but a very handsome puffer pig.”

“Yeah right,” Anakin was fighting a smile.

“Well it still looks good on you.” You waived off his hands and started refastening the loose shirt then handed him the over coat. “Last time I helped you like this was your first days as our Padawan, now it's your first big solo mission.”

“Master Y/n?” Anakin felt a ripple in your signature, wistful and sad. “I promise we'll be fine, you don't have to worry.”

Raising an eyebrow you hummed in your throat, “I wonder sometimes if there is something that I have forgotten... some nugget of wisdom that hasn't yet been passed. Have I done all that is possible to protect and guide you?”

Anakin had towered over you for a few years now and yet it still felt like he was that small boy sitting with you at the pond. He felt you take his hand, giving a squeeze looking up at him with those knowing eyes. Casting his own gaze to his boots Anakin felt his cheeks warm in embarrassment, “Guess I've been a bit dumb huh?”

“Just young. ” Letting go to tug at his braid you watched as a smile quirked up. “Hey look I'm no council member, but I do have a little wisdom that I haven't quite passed on that you may need for this mission.”

You reached a hand into your robes to retrieve a small object, one that had lived in your desk for sometime. You had hoped that it would be a while yet till he needed this, but you could no more stop the passage of time than to stop the flow of the living Force. Perhaps you were so cautious with Anakin because of your own misfortunes, maybe it was the few rough missions and close calls. Taking the bracelet that matched Obi Wan's you fastened it to his wrist, slowly letting the words flow.

“You have the biggest heart Anakin Skywalker and you're a damn fine apprentice. I have no doubt that you can protect yourself and Senator Amidala from whatever gets thrown your way. Yes I will worry, but only because I care for you so much and want you safe. As your Master though, I know that I must let you go no matter how hard that is for me. We will be with you always and if you ever doubt it just look right here.” Tapping the bracelet you took a deep breath and glanced up at those bright blue eyes. They were different from Obi Wan's, more mirthful and cocky. You never wanted that mirth to leave him, you'd spare him any heartache if you could, but that was life and so your apprentice must take the good with the bad as you all did. “Now about that big heart.”

“Master I...”

Holding up a hand you smiled again at the young man. “I'd be a pretty big hypocrite if I shot your feelings down right now wouldn't I?”

“I don't know...”

“Yes you do.” Quirking up a brow at your apprentice and giggling at the blush that now spread up to his ears. “Don't tell Obi Wan though, he likes to think he's so sneaky. And I'm sorry that I was so remiss in advising you before all this started.”

“Well it's not like Jedi usually have significant others.” Anakin snarked.

“Be that as it may, I do have a little advice. Be honest and tell her how you feel, what you admire, what you think. Listen to what she has to say instead of thinking that you're right all the time. Don't let your pride speak where your heart should. And above all else never let your pride and heart out pace your brain... if anyone could testify about that it's me.” Giving his hand a last squeeze you stepped back to get one last glance at him, no longer the boy but the man.

Anakin glanced down at his feet again, “What if she doesn't feel the same way?”

“That is the risk we take,” using your finger to tip his chin back up you gave him a kind look. “Either way at least you'll know, which is better than wallowing in the what if's. Take your shot kid, the Force will be with you.”

“As it is with you Master.”

______

“Sarinysium is hard stuff to come by kiddo... even harder to produce correctly,” Maffa studied his young friend from across the desk. Bone and soul tired like you hadn't slept in several days, and then there was the small fact that you had come to him for information. While he was more than happy to oblige you, Maffa also knew that you didn't turn to him for help lightly. Must be a real emergency, he figured. “With a concentration and distillation of this quality though... a few that come to mind.”

“Anyone from the planets that have left the Republic?” You swirled the amber liquor clinking the ice on the sides of the glass. You wouldn't breathe easy till Anakin checked in from the hiding place and were also anxious to hear what Obi Wan had found out from Dex. You didn't have the premonitory gifts of your Master, none the less you felt the edge of war's knife at the throat of the galaxy. Looking to the old gangster you saw that even he could tell the tides were changing.

“One or two but the one that comes most to mind is a planet called Kamino. Lot of war profiteers, cloners that make armies for hire, weapons manufacture and testing.” Maffa took a sip of his own glass, pursing his lips. “Y/n please let someone else handle this. These type of folks mood changes with the wind and the highest bidder.”

“I wish I could... but duty calls.” Downing the last of your drink you smiled at your friend. “Besides you know Obi Wan will keep track of me well enough.”

Maffa sighed heavily, but shrugged his shoulders and wrote some information on a flimsy for you. As you grasped the sheet he took hold tightly. “Just be safe little Y/n. If someone has brought back a weapon like this, there's no telling what they have up their sleeves.”

Giving Maffa a hug you promised to come back by after your mission. You called Obi Boy, he had found a similar lead to the mysterious planet Kamino and was headed to the Archives. By the time you had arrived though he had struck a dead end there and apparently upset Master Nu in the process. With the two of you at a loss you thought on what Master Melri would do. “Well when in doubt, find a wiser adult.”

“I think Master Yoda is teaching sabers to the younglings today.” Obi Wan gazed down at your haggard appearance, sighing at the sight. As the two of you made your way down the halls he pulled you into one of the blind corners. Circling his arms around you and pressing a kiss to your head. “You look a fright wee one, here let me help.”

“Sorry, I haven't even been back to our quarters yet.”

Obi Wan turned you so he could fix your ponytail. He could also tell that you'd been subsisting on nothing but Kaf by how shaky your body was. You spun in his arms laying your head against his sternum. Laying his head to yours Obi Wan sighed knowing that this was exhausting for the both of you. “Come wee one, let us consult with the most adult person we know.”

“Don't think, feel with the Force. Help you it will.” Yoda focused on the small ones before him. Young though they were, strong and skilled were they too. Much like a great garden these younglings minds simply needed nurturing and time for them to reach their potential. Sensing the approaching knights Yoda clacked his staff on the floor. “Younglings, Younglings visitors we have.”

“Hello Master Kenobi and Master L/n.”

"Hello Younglings,” Obi Wan gave a small smile. “We're sorry to disturb you Master.”

“Teddy Bear Clan! How's your class today lil squishes?” A wave of giggling bounced around the room. You smiled at the group of children, no matter how tired you were, seeing them certainly buoyed your spirits. Now if you could remain upright that'd be a trick.

Yoda laughed at your greeting, “What help to you can I be?”

“Why don't you take the lead Obi Boy, I'm gonna test the structural integrity of that post.”

“Indeed, we shall see whom crumbles first.” Obi Wan tried to hide his grin, instead focusing more on the wise Master before him. “We're looking for a planet described to us by separate acquaintances, but it doesn't appear in the archives.”

“Lost a planet have you? How embarrassing... how embarrassing. Liam, the shades,” Master Yoda raised the reader and gestured for all to come closer. “Gather around the map reader, clear your minds and find this lost planet we will.”

With the room darkening your mind started to really blank, so very tempted to fall asleep right there standing against the pillar. Instead you tracked Obi Wan as he paced the room.

“It ought to be here, but it isn't.” Obi Wan shook his head at the empty space on the map.

You nodded in agreement, “Maffa said the same, right between Scarif and the Rishi moon.”

“Gravity is pulling all of the stars in the system to this spot.” Obi Wan looked to you. “What do you think darling?”

“Nothing good I can tell you that.”

“Gravity's silhouette remains, but the star and all of its planets have disappeared. How can this be?” Yoda gazed at his charges, young and old alike. “Hmm a thought? Anyone?”

One little hand raised, their voice so very calm, “Master, it's because someone erased it from the archive memories.”

“Truly wonderful the mind of a child is. The Padawan is right, go to the center of gravity's pull and find the missing planet you will.” Yoda began to walk towards the hallway, the two knights following.

“Master Yoda who could have emptied the data from the archives? Isn't that impossible?” Obi Wan did not like where this evidence was leading.

“Dangerous and disturbing this is, only a Jedi could have erased those files. But who and why, harder to answer... meditate on this I will.” Yoda hummed thinking about all that had transpired in the last 24 hours. How was it that he and the Council could not have sensed this? How and why the Senator were drawn in was troubling as well. Looking at the two weary knights he sighed. “Rest now and this afternoon depart for this mystery planet you shall.”

Both of you bowed and headed to your quarters. Over and over the darkest of thoughts and more came to mind, and unfortunately none that you could outright dismiss. Making it in the door you flopped on the couch, Obi Boy set an alarm and then pulled you in close. He ran his hand through the mess that was your hair, gently stroking it as you held him tighter. “Maffa thinks I should sit this one out.”

“Then he and I are of the same mind. Would that I could send you to look after the boy instead, but I require your brilliant intellect.” Obi Wan sighed raising his other hand to scrub his face.

“How do you want to play this?” Resting your chin to look up at him you blinked and almost fell asleep right there. It was hard to resist the warm safety of his embrace.

Obi Wan hummed in his chest, “First we shall rest, then simply take things in our stride as we progress.”

“So very wise,” your head slumped to nestle into his strong chest. “Love you.”

“And I you wee thing.”

________________

“There it is, our missing planet.” Obi Wan turned back to you in the fighter. Seeing you knees to chest and dead to the world asleep gave him a grin. Reaching back through the seats to tap you awake he laughed at your grumbles. “Wake up sleepy kaf gremlin, we're here.”

You blinked owlishly and gazed out the canopy as the ship descended through the atmosphere. “Oh goodie... rain.”

“Come now we must put on our best faces.”

Making the mad dash to the door of the landing platform and looking like drenched rats was not going to make a good first impression. Wringing out your ponytail caused Obi Wan to snort. "Not...a ... word."

Obi Wan only smirked, quirking an eyebrow.

A tall being with the most remarkable obsidian eyes greeted you. “Master Jedi, welcome to Tipoca City. The Prime Minister is expecting you.”

“Oh this is getting weirder and weirder...” you glanced at your Obi Boy.

Obi Wan tried to keep neutral expression, “We are expected?”

“Of course! After all of this time we were starting to think you weren't coming.” The being before them began to walk and gestured to follow. “I am Tuan We, administrator and one of the overseers of this facility.”

“Pleased to meet you.” you studied the taller being in fascination. “This is Master Obi Wan Kenobi and I am Healer Y/n L/n.”

“What are you up too?”

“Just trust me, scientists talk to other scientists... networking.”

Taun We looked intrigued by that, “I've never met a Jedi Healer before, perhaps you would enjoy a tour of the medical facilities while Master Kenobi meets with the Prime Minister?”

Obi Wan stroked at his beard to hide a smirk, “Very clever.”

“That would be wonderful, also do you mind if I ask a few questions?”

"I would be happy to answer," Taun We inclined her head and long neck to the female, "I would be most interested to ask you about your work as well."

You smiled, "Excellent."

You managed to keep Taun We busy right up until you entered the Prime Minister's office. Introductions were made, Prime Minister Lama Su extending the offer that since you had both arrived so late in the evening that a full inspection would be organized in the morning.

“Thank you, we feel most welcome.” Obi Wan smiled over the cup of tea that had been brought in.

Lama Su studied these Jedi with a keen eye. “You'll also be pleased to know that we are on schedule. 200,000 units are battle ready with a million more on the way.”

“I'm sorry units?” Your ears perked at the term.

“That is... great news.” Obi Wan gave you a look. “Wait and see wee one.”

“Please tell your Master Sifo Dias that his order will be met on time.” Lama Su further gauged their reactions. Either this was as unexpected for the Jedi as for the Kaminoans or something was greatly amiss.

“I'm sorry who...” Obi Wan was now quite startled.

You were equally shocked, “Did you say Master Dias?”

“Yes. Master Sifo Dias is still a sitting member of your Jedi Council is he not?”

“Master Sifo Dias was reported missing and presumed killed almost 10 years ago.” Obi Wan placed the cup down to watch the being across from them. As soon as one clue was found, a new mystery was revealed.

“Obi Boy...”

“I know sweetling.”

Lama Su dipped his head, “I'm so sorry to hear that, but I'm sure he would be proud of the army we've built for him.”

“The Army...”

You quickly covered for Obi Wan's shock, “That's why we're here. Though some of the data has been lost to us since his passing, did Master Dias say who this army was for?”

“Why for the Republic of course.” Lama Su Rose and opened the portal to the viewing platform off the office. “Magnificent aren't they?”

You and Obi Wan stepped forward to row upon row of troopers for as far as the eye could see. Each of the signatures was so unique yet all wore the same uniform blending seamlessly into the other. Looking at Obi Wan with a wide expression he nodded back. “Obi Boy what have we gotten ourselves into?”

“This is bigger than any of us could have imagined...”

The Prime Minister gave a short viewing tour, highlighting the best of the genetic modifications made to these beings. Obi Boy had to calm you a few times when the Kaminoans referred to the men as “Items”. While the science of cloning had been around for some time you were fascinated by the advancements that the Kaminoans had made. That they managed to avoid the pitfall of clone madness thus far by balancing out the growth stages was quite the trick.

All in all from the surface a well run facility. While Obi Wan had continued on with Lama Su, you were escorted to the medical research wing to meet with their head researcher Nala Se. The female Kaminoan was different from her counterparts, speaking more kindly regarding the beings that were under their care, but none the less regarding them as a product.

“And what other research regarding combat is performed?” You were looking over the records of the Alpha series of clones.

Nala Se tilted her head, “I'm not sure I understand Healer L/n?”

“It's just that in my experience most militaries have an R&D for weaponry, medical research, technology... I was curious if that was similar here?”

Taun We was quick to answer, “Our weapons research is conducted elsewhere, closer to the armory.”

“So ballistic and plasma based items?” You stated the question with the same detached ease as you would a post operative report. There was a spike between the two other beings, “I'll take that as a no?”

“We have in the past done other weapons research, but it was shut down years ago and now only kept in the high security areas. I trust that you'll understand that I cannot show you those without proper clearance.” Taun We eyed the Jedi, she was an intelligent being for a human. Lama Su had warned to watch both of their guest carefully.

“Being in the RRC I've responded to many places where Bioligics have been used, I was curious if you had any new advances in treatment perhaps?”

Nala Se's eyes did widen at that, “Of course we would be happy to share our data to help those affected.”

“Not a pleasant business Biologics,” you kept a pulse on their signatures, “the worst I ever saw was sarinysium. Terrifying stuff, gone in the blink of an eye...”

The two Kaminoans became uneasy at your mention, body language changing subtly.

“I apologize, sometimes I tend to ramble.” You looked to Nala Se who kept eyeing the report in your hand. “These Alpha troopers are quite the group, why weren't more of them created?”

Nala Se seemed to relax at the question and change of topic, “We found them to be far too strong willed to create in large numbers. It seemed better to have them as leaders among the ranks.”

You nodded, “Ah, well thank you very much for your time and hospitality. I look forward to the demonstrations tomorrow.”

As you were escorted through the halls you mulled over this new piece of the puzzle. You had only briefly met Master Dias during your time as a Padawan, he had been a good and loyal member of the order. Why then had he done this?

Angry yelling coming from the hallway ahead drew your attention as quickly as your feet, old instincts kicking over. Turning the corner you saw a group of clones carrying one of their own. Without thinking you removed his helmet and began to palpate where you saw blood. It was your first real look at the men, you weren't sure if this one was in shock at seeing you or if the expression was from the pain of his injury.

“What happened?”

The men looked at you as though you sported horns and a second head. “Uh... Ma'am?”

“It's alright I'm a healer, now what happened?”

The trooper who was being supported crumpled to the ground causing the focus to shift. As you knelt to check the injured clone he tried to be nonchalant. “Fell in the simulation, think I blacked out for a bit... just startled my squad is all.”

“Is that true?” Taun We questioned.

The rest of the men shifted restlessly, till one spoke out. “One of the training droids malfunctioned, fired after the exercise ended. He fell from the ledge."

"How far?" You fired off the question while checking pupil reaction.

"I'd say 6 meters ma'am."

“Uh huh,” Looking at the injured man you pulled out your best smile. “Alright handsome let's just be sure that hard head didn't crack. Let me see now, this may feel a little strange.”

Placing your hands to cup his face and reaching with the Force you soon found the problem. A hemorrhage causing intracranial pressure that would kill the man before he could make it to a medbay. He was deteriorating quickly pupils unequal, his pulse was racing under your fingertips. Glancing at the others gathered you instructed them to hold the patient steady. Focusing you began to channel and mend the broken vessels, breathing and heart rate returning to normal. Slowly opening your eyes you saw warm brown ones staring back alert and bright. “How do you feel now handsome?”

Who was this strange woman, not an instructor for certain? When CC-3636 felt those gentle hands on his pounding head he figured that was that, end of the line before he even saw combat. Then a warm feeling as the pain went away, gentle smile easing his fears. Seeing Taun We watching the interaction brought him back to reality quick enough. Sitting up straight he gave a crisp reply, “Much better ma'am, I'll report to my next training rotation with my squad.”

“The hell you will, you're going with me to the medbay and getting a second look at, isn't that right?” Looking up at Taun We you saw the subtlest nod. Helping the much taller man to his feet you couldn't help but appreciate the sheer stature of all the clones. Their progenitor must be truly impressive if these were any indication. Unfortunately you also wobbled like a fawn having gotten up too quickly and fell against your patient. “Kark... Sorry!”

CC-3636 smirked at the little thing, barking orders one minute then skittish the next. He linked her arm through his and marched toward the medbay. “Quite all right ma'am.”

Obi Wan meditated by the window of the guest quarters, it was spartan but spacious. The bounty hunter was here, of that Obi Wan was certain, but what his underlying motivations were... that was yet to be discovered.

You were resting after an eventful afternoon, resting even as tired and annoyed as your were. Obi Wan had sensed your feelings from the minute that the Kaminoans had referred to the beings under their care as objects. He was a guardian but in many ways you too were one. Your respect and compassion towards all beings was one of the many things he admired. Even drained as you had been you couldn't stop babbling about the troopers you had encountered... and the fact that none of them had a name.

“Obi?” You padded over to where he sat by the window, storm raging on the other side. When he didn't respond you decided to join him, taking a seat in his lap. Warm strong arms wrapped around and trapped you against his chest. Leaning your head back you waited for him to speak first, far too afraid of your own thoughts.

“You were a loth cat in a prior life darling.” He kissed the side of your neck. “What is it?”

“I sense darkness lurking around the poor souls here.” A tear slipped loose at the intrusive thought and of the old pain trying to break loose again. “How can life be created simply to die...”

“All life ends y/n, but we go on in the Force.” He felt your head shake.

“They were born to die for someone else's fight, for someplace they've never even seen, a choice that was never theirs to make. How can anyone use other beings like that?”

“Ahh... You know as well as I that not all beings in the universe have everyone's best interest in mind. That not all have the same virtues and heart.”

Playing with his hands nervously you considered what had woken you, “I saw something Obi Boy... something terrible.”

“Show me.”

Opening you signature to his own the same images flashed in rapid succession. War, pain, the red of a sith's lightsaber, death.... swirling so quickly that it was hard to catch one before the next came. He could feel the shudder running through your body, the cold sweat rising. Obi Wan ran his hands at your side to soothe and comfort. Turning to look you in the eye he could see the dark set in.

“Can we stop it? Can we save them?” Tears rolled down your cheeks thinking again of the man you had healed but a few hours before. He didn't know that his eagerness for battle was simply the naivete of one who had yet to even really live.

Obi Wan kissed your forehead softly, holding you tight, “I hope so sweetling... for all our sakes.”

___________

Jango Fett paced the small common area in his quarters, occasionally peering in to watch his son sleep. What he would give to dream so soundly, but those days had long departed. He had spotted the sleek starfighter as he landed his own ship. Lama Su had informed him that the Jedi had finally come to see the war cattle that had been created from his genetics. He knew well enough that wasn't the only reason for their appearance.

This was just a job like any other, with the exception of the son he loved dearly. Of all the things that had come of his work these last 10 or so years Boba was the one that he never regretted. Glancing to the buildings at the far side of the floating city his thoughts drifted again to the two visitors. “Alright Jetii your move...”

“Boba is your father here?” The small boy at the door nodded, “May we see him?”

Boba pursed his lips seeming uncomfortable, “Sure.”

“I don't think he likes strangers.” You tried to give the boy a smile which he returned even if shyly. His look turned to a sneer when he looked at Obi Wan.

Obi Wan raised a brow, “I think he likes you better than me.”

Entering into the small apartment you heard Boba call for his father. It was much like the one that the two of you had stayed in, though you could feel the echos of happy memories here. Hearing movement from the bedroom you turned to see a striking man coming towards you. He moved with a lethal grace and an aura of command. It was his face that truly struck you, scared and battle hardened version of the younger clone from the day before.

Taun We bowed her head at the man, “Welcome back Jango, was your trip productive?”

“Fairly.” Jango had quickly sized up the male, a fighter and cocky for sure, not a problem if push came to shove. The female was... intriguing. Turning to face the shorter woman he put on a flirting smile, making his tone lighter. “And you are?”

Your mind blanked at the intensity of his gaze. It wasn't that you weren't used to flirting, just that this felt altogether different, like a test of sorts. Fortunately Taun We stepped in.

“This is Jedi Master Obi Wan Kenobi and Jedi Healer Y/n L/n, they've come to check on our progress.”

Jango watched as the healer offered a hand in greeting, maybe trying to regain their footing. Pretty little thing, not his type but none the less there was something charming about her. Taking your hand Jango raised it to his lips and gently pressed a kiss. “Welcome to Kamino.”

You swallowed hard, “Thank you.”

Obi Wan watched as this Jango released your hand and walked towards him. He raised an eyebrow and tried to appear unaffected by the little exchange. “Your Clones are very impressive, you must be very proud.”

“I'm just a simple man trying to make his way in the galaxy.” Jango gazed impassively at Kenobi, then darted his eyes briefly to you. Your attention had fallen to Boba and his Djarik board. It was a game that they had started just before he left on this last assignment, she was studying the board in interest. Jango resisted a smirk when you shook your head at his son's next play.

“Ever made your way far as Couriscant?” Obi Wan had used the man's momentary distraction to look past into the room by the door, the metallic glint of armor catching the light.

Jango caught the line of the other Jedi's sight even as he pressed in his move to the board, whispering for Boba to close the door. He inched into your space crowding and then brushing past you to face Kenobi again, “Once or twice.”

Obi Wan fired back, “Recently?”

“Possibly...” Jango could see that this Kenobi didn't like him getting near the woman, how interesting. He leaned on the table close to you, smiling and giving a wink. “Though I have thought of passing by more often. Such a beautiful place with such... marvelous people.”

“You must leave a trail of broken hearts in your wake Mr. Fett.” You saw the hunter cock his head.

Jango rather liked this Jetii, “I've never had any complaints.”

"Probably far too busy to hear them, you seem more a man of business," leaning slightly closer you glanced down at his lips then back to that hawkish gaze. A flirting smile passed your lips, "and seldom one of ... pleasure."

"Being trapped in that Temple of yours mesh'la what would your know of such things?" If the Jeti'ika wanted to play then who was he to deny her.

“Hmm...Well I've never had any complaints.” You kept eye contact, smirking. Master Melri always said when men flirt their guard was at it's lowest. However Jango may like the game he still wasn't giving you anything. Obi Wan on the other hand was not happy with the exchange. You could feel the territorial protectiveness in his signature spiking and while it was comforting it also wouldn't help. “Easy Obi...”

“I'm fine.”

“Bantha Shit. Mission first...Besides you know I only have eyes for you sweet man.”

Obi Wan gritted his teeth & attempted to reign in his temper, now trying a different avenue. “Then you must have met Master Sifo Dias.”

“Master who?”

Ah, now there's something. Obi Wan circled closer to Fett, “Sifo Dias, was he not the Jedi that hired you for this job?”

Jango didn't like that the knight had caught him off guard, deciding to keep this discussion to the point. “Never heard of him.”

“Really?” You now came to stand beside Obi Wan. “Then how...”

“I was hired by a man called Tyranus, on one of the moons of Bogden.”

“Curious,” You murmured absently, “must be an associate.”

Jango looked between the two, setting a challenging gaze at Kenobi, “Do you like your Army?”

“I look forward to seeing them in action.” There was a ghost of a smile on Obi Wan's face.

“They'll do their job well, I'll guarantee that.”

You watched the two men posture, like rivals testing the waters. You had caught sight of the armor too and old tales of Mandalorian fighters scratched at the surface. This man had the cold eyes of a killer for certain, but he also loved his son dearly as evident by the many trinkets and their strong bond. A man of many facets.

Was Jango truly a part of whatever was transpiring or simply a pawn? The aura surrounding the boy was clear and curious; whatever the father's dealings Boba didn't seem privy. Either way nothing more would be gained with further discussion now. “Thank you for answering our questions Mr. Fett, we're very sorry to have intruded.”

“Please call me Jango.” Again he saw the small flash of jealousy in Kenobi's eyes as he looked back at him. “Always a pleasure to meet a Jedi.”

As their guests left Jango could see his son was as uneasy as he was. Dooku had not told him what the contingency was if the Jedi came sniffing around, but he recognized the danger of the situation well enough. Looking at his son, his decision was made.

“Pack your things, we're leaving.”

__________

“Great karking plan!” You yelled watching the armored man fly off. “What happened to 'just having a talk?'”

“He's Mandalorian,” Obi Wan gritted his teeth, “That is how they talk!”

The ship on the platform was powering up it's weapons systems. Dashing towards the front of the craft you tried to signal the very scared kid in the cockpit. Taking cover by a pillar you focused trying to influence the boy through the Force, “You want to power those down Boba. This is a bad idea, power down the weapons.”

The guns gave a short burst towards Obi Wan, so much for the power of persuasion. Dashing towards the ramp you felt arms grip you from behind and your feet leaving the ground. “Dank Ferrik!!!”

“Don't move Jetii.” Jango held fast to the woman while flying. He kept a keen eye on Kenobi, “Your choice me or the woman?”

“Get him Obi!”

Obi Wan waited till Fett flew close then gave a running kick at the man, causing you to fall. All three of you went sprawling on the platform. Obi Wan went on the defensive, quickly disarming the hunter of his pistol. The three of you began to trade blows though Fett effortlessly deflected both of you. You attempted to jump on the man's back to pull his helmet off and earned a broken nose for your efforts.

“Poor decision sweetheart,” Jango flung the woman across the platform before spying Kenobi trying to retrieve his weapon. Wrapping the man with a cable he set to the air, a dunk in the ocean would take care of the problem well enough.

Obi Wan knew that if Fett was able to get him over the water this fight would not end in his favor. Turning and gaining his feet again he reached out for a post to hold tight and hopefully anchor in. He almost lost his footing when you slid into him. “Y/N!”

“I got ya, pull!” The sudden loss of slack caused the hunter to crash, jet pack flying wildly before exploding. That didn't stop Jango from being quick to retrieve his pistol, nor Obi Wan to forget that he was attached to the hunter as he ran past to kicked him off the platform.

“Oh not good...”

Splashing across the platform you saw as Fett detached the cable. “OBI!”

A few moments later you could still feel him in the Force, signature still bright. “I'm Alright, keep them busy.”

“On it.” Racing to the ramp of the Firespray you quickly found the boy. The angry look on your face must have frightened Boba and you quickly softened to his fear. You held out your hands trying to deescalate this situation. “Boba I want you to come with me...”

“NO! WHERE'S MY DAD?”

“I'm not going to hurt you. Come, we're going to see Taun We and get this sorted. It's not safe...” The Force spiked a moment before the danger struck. Turning quickly to deflect the shots from Jango's blaster you weren't able to see Boba reach for the one in the hold.

Your body fell limply to the ground, Boba nudging you just to be sure the stun worked. Looking up at his father,the boy smiled. “We got them good didn't we Dad.”

“Yes we did son,” Jango picked up the Jedi and secured her in the janitors closet of the hall. Normally he would have held onto her for information, but where they were going he didn't want to be tracked. Killing the woman wasn't part of the job, Jetii or no, so he would leave her for the Kaminoans to deal with. Checking her pulse and finding it steady Jango turned to leave. “For your sake mesh'la... don't follow.”

Obi Wan dashed back inside out of the rain after having just missed the departing ship. Blast it all, how had they gotten away and where were you? Slicking his wet hair back he reached out to try to find you, “Y/n, where are you sweetling?”

“Ooooohhhhh.... my head, what in the sith hells?”

Glancing around he opened a side closet door just grabbing hold as your tumbled out. Nose bloody and blinking at the bright light, all things considered it could be worse. “Just tidying up are we?”

“Ha ha ha... Hrrrrgh, kid got the drop on me, kriffin' hells!”

Obi Wan hummed hauling you to a stand, “Well I dare say you'll have another chance at him. I managed to place a tracker, do you think you can manage?”

“Lemme at 'em!” You tried to walk but only succeeded in almost falling down. Obi Boy shook his head and picked you up. You grimaced, “Next time you and Anakin can investigate and I'll go with the Senator to the cool hideout.”

“I'm inclined to agree. Now heal thyself so we can run our quarry to ground.”

As the ship left the atmosphere you pondered again just how well your Padawan was doing on his own? Were there more hunters waiting in the wings, had the two managed to stay hidden?

“Wee one?”

“Hmm.”

“Are you sure you're alright? That was a gruesome hit...” Obi Wan paused feeling your small hand reach forward to squeeze at his bicep.

“I shouldn't have let my guard down, I'm sorry.” You pressed your head to the back of his seat. “some help I am...”

“You are doing well Y/n.” Obi Wan squeezed and stroked his fingers against your hand soothingly. “The fact that you're exhausted from overstretching your abilities and still standing is a wonder of stubborn will. Any other healer would have been put on rest by now from so much, you've treated how many critical wounds in the last two days? And on top of that been in how many altercations?”

“Two not a big deal.” You cringed and tried to change the subject. ”Don't forget to scan the exit point.”

Obi Wan rolled his eyes at your evasiveness, “Four counting yourself and that changeling. You've barely slept or eaten dear girl."

You felt even more guilty now for not taking better care and for flubbing up, "I'm sorry..."

Reaching over Obi Wan took your hand, gently kissing the knuckles. "Nothing to be sorry for wee one. Give yourself some grace darling. Why don't you eat one of those red biscuits and if you would hand me one too please.”

There was a pit in your stomach, but you did as he asked. Flying through hyperspace you released Obi Boy's arm handing him the biscuit, “Toss me back the blue pack by the controls.”

You could hear Obi Boy grumbling in his throat as you took out one of the pre loaded syringes. Taking a deep breath you stuck it into the muscle of your thigh, medications taking effect immediately. Taking stims was an unfortunate necessity when you got this tired, it was never something you enjoyed. The medications made you jumpy and your attention shorten. Slipping another injector away in your pockets, you handed the rest of the pack back forward. You took hold of Obi Boy's arm again, wishing you could hold his hand instead.

“I don't like when you have to use those.” Obi Wan stroked at his beard worriedly. He had hoped that their investigation would have ended on Kamino so that you could return and rest. Unfortunately the universe as always, mocked his wishes even if it wasn't for himself. “Are you sure that you're able to continue? We can always track the ship then call for assistance.”

You sighed, “I'll be alright and the sooner we finish this the better. So lets go find us a bounty hunter.”

Taglist:

@meshlasolus @a-rose-of-amber @aquaamethyst96 @stanny-uwu @just-dreaming-marvel @rain-on-kamino @nurseytypechick @in-a-mellow-tone @acatalystrising @pickleprickle @iambored24601 @songoficecreamandfireworks @purplepandora666 @misscamptl @obiknights @moostresskenobi @the-going-merry @ginger-swag-rapunzel @iabrokengirl @lovelyxlily @annasun13 @foxperifoto @supernaturallover2002

[khruschevshoe]

You know, there was a comment in an author's note of one of @aletterinthenameofsanity 's fucs that pointed out something that I can't stop thinking about: Rory's outfits. Taking aside the last centurion outfit for sight gags and his clubs from episode one, Rory in seasons 5 and 6 has one of the most consistent character style designs of any companion on the show (outside of Jack, but Jack kind of feels more Doctor-adjacent to me in terms of costuming in that he wears almost the exact same thing for Torchwood/later appearances, and he only has like three different outfits in late Season 1).

Rory is constantly identified with puffer vests, jeans, and flannel button-ups, with him occasionally having a striped polo (Impossible Astronaut) or a cardigan/jacket (Let's Kill Hitler). When he is wearing an outfit he picked out and not a uniform (so not Eleventh Hour, Pandorica Opens/Big Bang), he is wearing very similar variations on the same general outfit/style.

So why on God's green earth did the costume designers decide to change things so much in Season 7? I understand that there's some argument to be made that Rory "grew up" based on the 10 years comment, but hell, he lived 2000 years and that didn't change his sense of style at all from season 5 to 6 save for the introduction of the Last Centurion outfit into the mix for a gag/"badass" moment a couple of times a season (though never in Season 7). Why does he suddenly go from flannel button-ups and leather jackets to looser plain shirts and hoodies in Season 7?

(There's also something to be said for the change in makeup for Amy- much more emphasized eyeliner, for example- between Seasons 6 & 7 and the addition of a "sleeker" leather jacket. It's almost like season 7 styling of the Ponds is going for a more sleek, stylish, "cool" version of the Ponds, but I'd love guesses as to why outside of making them look more mature- unless you think that might be the sole reason.

Also, yes, I'm aware that Arthur Darvill apparently got to style his own hair in Season 7 so that at least solves the question of Rory's changed hairdo.)

[dollz-punk]

Reader submitted Beanie Baby Poetry from "Mary Beth's Bean Bag World Monthly" Vol. 2 No. 13, published October 1999.

Scanned by me :o) (@dollz-punk)

Text only versions of the poems under the cut.

Image 1: Poem titled "Beanie baby sickness" Written by Stephannie L. P, 13 years old. "First Grandma caught it, then she passed it on to me. This Beanie Baby sickness is like a flue, you see. Fortunately once you catch it, it turns into an addiction. You always want more to complete your collection! First I got Ziggy, Then I laid eyes on that cute little piggy. Eventually I had 20, Mom decided that was plenty. I begged to differ because I still needed Puffer. After she gave in, Grandma bought me Fortune. Then McDonald's came out with the Teenie Beanies. The first 10 Happy Meals were pretty good. I ate all those hamburgers - as many as I could. In not too long, the food tasted bad. And I began to feel very, very sad. Then I got a call - it was from my Uncle Paul. He said he had extras of all the Teenies. My Wish had been granted! I think he's my Genie. Daddy had driven me everywhere. He claimed that he didn't care, but I knew I'd passed it on to Daddy. Because when we got home. he asked to see my Patti!"

Image 2: Poem titled "Good night Beanies" Written by Susie N. from Kentucky. "Beanie Babies are cute and, oh, so cool! All night they dance around my room. Ride on puppets, go zoom-zoom. Whenever they get tired, they go off to bed. Good night, good night, sleepyhead. In the morning, they arise. They always wake before sunrise. Bucky goes swimming and Peanut for a jog. And Ally goes fishing with Smoochy the frog. Stretch goes on picnics and Pinky for a dip. Inch and Goldie play tag with Flip. All day long Quackers is waddling with Jake to the pond to visit Peking. When finally, all is said and done, and once again down goes the sun, off to bed in their haven so deep. Goodnight, goodnight and off to sleep!"

[shimmerbeasts]

HC + Lae’zel (and if you want throw in mizora )

Five Headcanons||Accepting.

Crèche K'liir taught its inhabitants how to swim. Githyanki, however, do not swim like normal people. Instead, they swim more like crocodiles. Lae'zel knows how to swim so that only the top half of her head, including her nostrils, and her hair are visible above the water. She also can use her enhanced leap capabilities to jump out of the water into great heights and fall back into it without much of a commotion. While Lae'zel may not be the fondest of baths, she is a really skilled swimmer and enjoys being in rivers or ponds.

Among the many training sessions Lae'zel had, there was one mission where they were supposed to catch a puffer for dinner in a group. Unfortunately, Lae'zel ditched her assigned group very early on and confronted the puffer herself. Against all odds and through sheer force of will, Lae'zel managed to wrestle the puffer down and choke it to death. While Commander Urlon was proud of her deed, he was also mispleased as Lae'zel had done the task incorrectly. Killing the puffer had supposed to teach the young Gith teamwork; something Lae'zel was notoriously bad at.

During her first field mission as a Githyanki, Lae'zel had a near-death experience. An Ulitharid managed to ambush her from behind and tried to feast on her. Lae'zel fought hard, managing to chop off several of its tentacles, even as she felt sharp teeth try to pierce through the back of her skull. Still, no matter how hard she fought, Lae'zel would have died in this encounter, had it not been for the dragon of a kith'rak, swooping down and killing the Mindflayer with one bite. It was this encounter, which inspired Lae'zel to become a kith'rak herself and fired on her love for dragons. Lae'zel has various half and crescent-shaped scars on her scalp and her upper- and underarms from both the attempted bite and where the sucker cups of the tentacles dug into her skin.

Lae'zel has difficulties with sweeter foods. Due to growing up in Crèche K'liir, she did not come into a lot of contact with foods from Faerun. This means that even something as simple as a peach or an apple can be so sweet that it causes her throat to cramp. Luckily, Lae'zel will get used to Faerun's meals through repeated exposure, but at first, the taste of sugar is quite a shock.

Despite Lae'zel being all for the carnal pleasures of the flesh, she actually is someone, who has a bit of touch-aversion. Lae'zel has difficulties, dealing with tender and affectionate touches as Crèche K'liir never taught her the value of these touches. However, she can eventually warm up to an affectionate touch if given the time and not being pressured into it.

[garudabluffs]

In this view from the Mill Street bridge in North Amherst, swimmers sit on the dam at Puffer’s Pond in 2016. The town has applied for a state grant that would help pay for development of an improvement plan at the pond, including the dam and dike.

Amherst requests state grant to develop Puffer’s Pond improvement plan

"If the money is awarded later this year, engineers will be hired to examine the pond and propose fixes. They will take readings on the depth of the water in the pond, get an understanding of what’s on the bottom of the pond, and take depth of sediment cores and examine what’s in the sediment.

Such a project could help the town to decide whether to undertake dredging of the pond, last done in 1986, when 100,000 cubic yards of material were removed.

“It does move the needle on dredging,” Ziomek said. “From that information we should be able to extrapolate the volume of sediment that needs to be removed from the pond.”

READ MORE https://www.gazettenet.com/Amherst-seeking-support-from-state-program-for-Puffers-Pond-dam-and-dike-repairs-54694735

[scribble-dribble-writes]

hey,

i requested the recent obi-wan one-shot u wrote and i absoluetly loved it.. but since I didnt watch sanditon I wanted to ask if u would write a 2nd part (or reworte it -thats up to u). I just love the dynamics of couples that love each other just as much as they did at the beginnig of their relationship when they have been married for 10 years and I‘d love to have a Moder!Obi experience that.

Lots of love (and maybe this is my sign to watch sanditon, haha)

No problem! Here's the new version haha.

Also you should definitely watch Sanditon, one of my favorites!

---

First Glance

The morning sky welcomed you gently just as it had done ten years ago. Time was a silly little spindle that kept spinning, allowing you to weave a fabric of reality that was filled with a love that kept you warm. The weather was cold, heading towards winter, all the leaves had fallen, the pavements ran wet with sprinkled rain and everything felt crisp although it wasn't spring. Maybe that was just his presence that was a constant, making you forget the changes in the season because no matter what happened on the outside, he still remained the same.

As he held your hand now, walking down the garden trail by the local park. He wore his woolen coat and you wore your puffer jacket. The yellow taxis drove past as the leaves held a distinct crunch beneath your boot. You have walked the same trail the past decade that it began to feel sacred now, that as you passed by certain places, it held milestones for your relationship.

His soft laugh broke you away from your thoughts to look at him as his eyes sparkled with the same love he held back then.

"I saw you for the first time by that green gate.", he said pointing towards a garden gate that was now worn down with ivy grown over it.

"You were running late for your class at university.", you reminisce along with him. He pulled you in closer to kiss your forehead.

"And you were heartbroken.", he said.

It was true. It all seemed bleak then, that you were convinced you would never love again but looking back now, that was when your paths were meant to cross. But he went on to attend his class while you sat there mending your heart. It was the start, the first glance.

You continued down the path to walk past a fountain. It still sat there happily spouting water over giggling children and young lovers tossing in their coins. This was where you found him again, a year after that moment by the gate. The night sky had turned magical with faint stars, he sat alone tossing in a coin as he pursed his lips thinking of a wish.

You were there to do the same. But even before you could toss in your coin, his eyes found yours and there was that spark again, that tug in your heart, you didn't need a coin for wishes. He was right there in front of you.

You rested your head on his shoulder. "I was wishing for love.", he said quietly, to which you hum.

"And I was searching for you.", you look up to him but as usual he leaned in to kiss you. Nothing felt different and you loved the comfort of stillness. That though the world rotted around you, this feeling never withered.

The final point in this pilgrimage was the gazebo, no one used it anymore but it held that magic as it sat by the pond. The floorboards creaked under your weight when he spun you out of his embrace, your mouth filled with laughter once again that over these years you had forgotten what sadness tasted like. You couldn't care for it either, this joy was all that you needed.

The birds chirped and the trees swayed as he led you into a slow dance.

"This will always be my favorite spot.", he whispered and it brought forth a smile on your lips.

"Why?", you asked having heard the answer a million times.

"Here, I had found my person.", he looked at the weathered structure but his smile still remained entranced as when he had asked you to marry him right in the spot you stood now.

"Obiwan.", you said softly, as you looped your hand behind his neck.

It always made you emotional, whenever he said it, that you were his. Because long ago you believed you were no one's.

So you pull him closer by the lapels of his coat, his cheeks turning red as always, somewhere between where your lips found his or his hands held your waist he said he loved you making the world fall away.

Time can continue to spin, you'll be here, in his arms, spinning along in this little music box of yours.

[thebrackishtank]

What should I get for brown algae control in a brackish tank? I can't keep snails because I have a figure-8 puffer on the way

Well - that is admittedly a bit of a dilemma. I'd still consider trying pond or ramshorn snails (I also don't think F8s really possess the ability to damage Nerites) but barring that, your only real choice is to outcompete the algae with live plants. Do you have any plants currently?

[dracoqueen22]

BlorboWriMo 2024 - Day 19 thru 22

He lets the matter drop. Perhaps once they arrive in Shandara, he can find out more, but for now, it’s clearly a delicate subject. 

The day wears long, but they reach another waycamp just after sunset. There is no convenient pond nearby for Dart to swim and catch a few fish, but Cecil makes a trap of wood and rope that snares a fat rabbit. He doesn’t know what to do with it after he catches it, but the small grin of pride in himself makes Dart’s heart do double-time, the stupid thing. 

Dart may not be able to hunt Dryland beasts with any success, but he knows how to dress and cook them. Clare is an excellent teacher. Not like roasting rabbit is hard, but it throws Cecil for a loop, and now it’s Dart’s turn to show him how it’s done. 

It’s a good meal for the two of them, sharing a log, sat hip to hip and thigh to thigh. None of those distracting potatoes or vegetables. Just roasted meat. Even Dart has to admit that the crunchy skin and greasy meat tastes better charred over a fire than raw. It burns his tongue and drops over his fingers, but messy eating is a small price to pay for deliciousness. 

Cecil’s much cleaner about it, little nibbles and kitten licks, and a small handkerchief he uses to wipe away drips. There’s not so much as a dribble on his chin. 

“Were you never taught manners?” he asks, but at least there’s more curiosity than disgust in the question. 

“Not the Drylander kind.” Dart pops his thumb in his mouth to suck it clean. “The Ori didn’t have much use for ‘em either.” 

“Hmm.” It’s not disgust that has Cecil watching Dart lick his fingers. 

Dart pretends not to notice. He curls his tongue around his knuckles and licks a drip from his wrist. He sucks on his fingertips as Cecil’s stare turns searing. 

This time, Dart tosses the bones into the fire rather than gnaw on them. Cecil would probably find that disgusting and Dart’s trying not to appall Cecil right now. He’s playing nice. 

“Do you want to learn?” Cecil asks. He throws bits into the fire, some of them a waste, but Dart bites his tongue. 

Playing nice sucks. 

“Not really.” Dart shrugs and sucks the last bit of rabbit from his forefinger talon. “What use are they?” 

Cecil’s openly staring now, and Dart smothers his grin. He may be plain average Undersea, but on Dryland, he’s cream of the crop. “Formal dinners, for one,” Cecil says after a moment. 

“Psss. I’ll never be invited to one of those.” Dart waves off the very idea of it. Manners in Undersea are more like, always greeting the Puffer or never turning your back on a crab. “I don’t see any reason to…” 

He trails off as Cecil leans in and gently cups his face, turning him toward Dart. He’s intent, focused, as his thumb rubs at the corner of Dart’s mouth, probably catching a smear of grease. 

“Missed a bit,” he says. 

“Ooops.” Dart flicks his tongue out, tastes the salt on the tip of his tongue. “Guess I’m just a mess.” 

He leans in, and delight rolls through him as Cecil meets him halfway. The kiss is light. Delicate. Like Cecil is unsure of his welcome and wants to test the waters. Well, that’s a little too sweet for Dart. 

He grabs the top of Cecil’s armor and turns the kiss filthy, tongue pushing deep, sweeping the taste of rabbit from Cecil’s mouth. He sucks on Cecil’s tongue in a mimicry of a cock, and drags the tip of his fangs over Cecil’s bottom lip. A sharp inhalation is his reward. 

“You’re wearing too much,” Dart says against Cecil’s mouth. He gives a pointed tug to the armor. 

“We are still in the wilds,” Cecil reminds him, but his hand cups the back of Dart’s neck, holding him close for the kiss. “Tell me what you want.” 

Oh, so many things, most of which he can’t have. 

Dart hums and slithers his way into Cecil’s lap, thighs stretched wide by both Cecil’s hips and the thickness of his armor. “I’d love for you to fuck me,” he says, just to watch the pink spread over the bridge of Cecil’s nose. He’s so cute when he’s flustered. “But since we’re ‘in the wilds’ I’ll settle for a handjob.” 

Cecil’s hands settle on his waist, and not for the first time, does Dart appreciate how large they are. Dart’s not a small person. Or at least, he didn't think he was. Lucas and Lysia made him question it, and now Cecil makes him feel tiny, too. Half of it’s the armor, Dart’s pretty sure. 

“You and Cecil are built for two very different purposes,” Sirene says. 

“Shhh. Quiet time now, Cecil’s gonna touch my dick,” Dart replies. 

Sirene makes a disgusted noise and evacuates, which means she’s going to go cuddle Vesper and bask in her wife’s presence, so she can’t be too upset about it. 

“You’ll, err, have to show me what to do,” Cecil says, getting pinker and pinker, but there’s no mistaking his dilating pupils or his quickened breath. 

Dart beams and starts to unlace his trousers. He’s not quite aroused enough for his hemipenes to emerge, but it won’t take long for him to get there. “It’s not that complicated.” He yanks open his pants, revealing his sheath, already starting to swell at just the idea of a little fun. “See?” 

Cecil gnaws on his bottom lip. “Um.” 

“They’re not always out,” Dart says with a laugh. Lysia had the same confused reaction. He grabs Cecil’s hand and pushes his palm against the sheath. “You gotta give ‘em reason to come out.” 

“I won’t hurt you?”

“Not with those nubby things.” Dart waves his other hand, indicating the claws on the tips of his fingers. He tightens his thighs around Cecil’s waist and leans back a little. “Come on. Show me some sword-handling tips.” He waggles his eyebrows. 

“Oh, gods. You’re ridiculous,” Cecil grumps, but he traces his fingertips around the rim of Dart’s sheath, and the gentle friction is a sweet sensation. 

Dart hums, his insides heating. “I’m fun,” he corrects. “Keep going.” 

Cecil takes in a deep breath, and the concentration on his face should not be as adorable as it is. But he’s focused, intent, as he eases one finger inside, and it brushes over Dart’s hemipenes. He shudders, hips pushing toward Cecil’s hand encouragingly. 

“More,” Dart demands. He grabs Cecil’s hand by the wrist and urges his finger deeper, heat knotting deep in his groin with every touch. “Don’t be gentle.” 

“You’re so impatient,” Cecil huffs but he obeys, withdrawing one finger and returning with three. He pushes in, curls, and his fingertips brush over the nerve cluster right along the inside. 

Dart’s spine curls, his whole body throbbing. He moans and keeps his grip on Cecil’s wrist, refusing to let him withdraw. “Yeah, just like that.” He ruts forward in little rocks of his hips as heat pulses into his groin. His hemipenes twitch. 

Encouragement works. Cecil’s bolder now, pushing deeper, his thumb stroking around the outside of Dart’s swelling sheath while his fingers lay rhythmic pressure on his nerves. Dart’s thighs shake. He gnaws on his bottom lip as his pulse starts to race, his hemipenes throbbing, slick and full. 

Dart groans and presses the heel of his free hand above his sheath, pushing down. Pleasure pulses through his groin as his hemipenes emerge, right into Cecil’s hand. They’re slick and hot as he curls curious fingers around them, first one and then the other, the tentative touches more of a tease, but a damn good one. 

Dart leans back up, hooking one arm around Cecil’s neck for more leverage so he can roll up into Cecil’s hand. No, hands. He’s got both of them involved, one around each pene, stroking Dart in slow, careful pulls. Barely any pressure, but his thumbs teasing at the tips at the end of an upstroke. 

“Is this… good?” Cecil asks. 

“Yeah,” Dart pants. He digs the heel of his palm into his abdomen again, more slick oozing out to soak his groin. “You can grip tighter.” He hooks two fingers into his sheath, playing with the sensitive nub right on the inside, right as Cecil gives him a squeezing stroke from root to tip. 

Dart shudders, his toes curling. “Fuck, just like that,” he murmurs, looking down. It’s a gorgeous sight, Cecil’s strong hands wrapped around his hemipenes, all of it glistening with his slick. He throbs in Cecil’s grip and another tight stroke turns him inside out. 

“Your hands are perfect,” he breathes, fingers digging into Cecil’s shoulder. 

“Thanks…?” Cecil strokes him again, then again, and Dart bucks, hips rising into each long, squeezing pull. “Should I do something different?” 

Dart groans. “No, this is perf– wait. Actually.” He pulls his fingers free of his sheath and hooks them in Cecil’s belt. “Get your dick out. I want to play with it, too.” 

It’s a testament to Dart’s will and his lack of selfishness that he’s gracious enough to let Cecil let go of his hemipenes so he can pull out his own dick. There’s more buckles and buttons and ties to get through though, so Dart keeps his hands busy. And his mouth. 

“Surprised it don’t bother you,” he says as he strokes himself.

“Why should it?” Cecil asks, hands fumbling as he struggles to get himself out, smearing Dart’s slick all over his buckles and such. The urgency is adorable. 

Dart shrugs. “Dunno. Had more than a few Drylanders take a look and decide it was too weird for them.” 

“Cowards,” Cecil mutters, like it’s an aside, but also completely genuine. “Was this before or after you sucked their dick?” 

“Or ate them out,” Dart corrects. He pauses, head tilted in thought. “Usually after. Huh. Never put that together before.” 

Cecil clicks his tongue. “Not only cowards, but also selfish.” He pauses mid-buckle. “You deserve better.” 

Heat steals into Dart’s cheeks that has nothing to do with arousal. It’s too hard to meet Cecil’s eyes so he looks away. “I’ll try and remember that.” He clears his throat noisily. “D’you need help with that or am I getting my hand on your dick sometime tonight?” 

“You could really use some manners,” Cecil huffs as he yanks his trousers open, shoves down his smallclothes, and his dick springs right into Dart’s waiting hand. Hot, hard, and already leaking at the tip, shiny with evidence of his want. 

Dart’s mouth waters, but he doesn’t let himself get distracted. “Finally,” he says, and scoots closer, just a few precious inches, enough to slot Cecil’s cock right between his in a delicious glide of heat and slick. 

“Now it’s perfect,” Dart declares as he presses his dicks against Cecil’s and rocks up, thrusting against the firm heat. 

A low groan echoes in Cecil’s throat. “Here. Let me…” He trails off, batting Dart’s hands aside to replace them with his own, encircling all three dicks with those gorgeous hands. 

“You’re a genius.” Dart grabs onto Cecil’s shoulders and uses them for leverage to grind into Cecil’s grip. 

His hands, those big, perfect hands, are a sloppy, slick mess, and Dart loves it. He ruts harder as Cecil squeezes, Cecil’s dick a hot, hard line between his hemipenes. 

“Fuck, I love your hands,” Dart pants and leans in, licking sloppily at Cecil’s mouth until Cecil opens for a kiss, a messy tangle of their tongues. He moans against Dart’s mouth, eyes fluttering shut, his thighs tensing under Dart as well. 

Dart drags his mouth along the curve of Cecil’s jaw and then into the hollow of his throat. Cecil’s pulse is a frantic flutter against his lips. His skin tastes of salt, and when Dart digs in his teeth, Cecil’s whole body judders. A moan vibrates out of his mouth, his hands squeezing harder, pulling faster. 

So Dart does it again, grazing his eyeteeth in a light scratch over Cecil’s skin, pulling a raised line like a mark. He latches onto Cecil’s throat with his mouth, sucks hard, pulls up another mark that Cecil won’t be able to hide, and Cecil bucks up against him. He squeezes, pulls, and ecstasy tightens like a knot in Dart’s groin. 

“Again,” he pants into Cecil’s ear, squeezing their bodies together, Cecil’s hands trapped between them. “Do it again.” 

Cecil makes a noise, a pitched moan, but he obeys so beautifully that Dart’s spine curves, his toes curl, everything goes taut and wonderful until his hemipenes spasm, and he spills, pulsing hot and wet over Cecil’s hands, Cecil’s dick, his armor. He soaks the space between their bodies, teeth digging a bruise into the side of Cecil’s neck. 

“Oh, fuck,” Dart breathes. “You, too. Come on.” He nips his way back to Cecil’s lips, licking his way inside. 

He swallows up Cecil’s groan and turns the kiss filthy. He’s sensitive all over, tingling, but it’s the good kind of sensitive as Cecil keeps stroking, keeps grinding between Dart’s penes until he finally comes, cock spurting hot and wet in their combined mess. He grits a moan from behind clenched teeth, face flushed a pretty pink. 

Dart is determined to really get Cecil to make some noise some day. Everything about him is locked behind a cage of iron control, and Dart’s just itching to break through. 

For now, he licks back into Cecil’s mouth, softens up his jaw until Cecil has no choice but to breathe out his pleasure. He pants against Dart’s lips, hands slowing until he’s wrung every last pulse of pleasure. 

“That was great,” Dart says. Pleasure thrums through his whole body in a happy buzz. Good food, sweet handjob. He’s feeling a bit spoiled right now. 

“Mmm.” Cecil hums what must be agreement but then he looks down between them and sighs. “Except for the unfortunate mess.” 

“Pfft. That’s nothing.” Dart grabs Cecil’s wrists and lifts them up. “I’m used to it,” he says before he starts to clean Cecil’s hand with his tongue. The taste of their mingled spunk gives him a thrill – himself sea-salty and Cecil, that bitter-tart musk. 

“What’re you…” Cecil trails off, his eyes wide. “Why?” 

“Why not?” Dart finishes up one hand and then starts on the other, grinning as he sucks Cecil’s thumb into his mouth. “It’s quicker this way.” 

Cecil’s mouth works for several seconds before he says, “Manners. I really am going to have to teach you manners.” 

Dart puffs out his cheeks. “Are you telling me it’s rude to do this?” He draws Cecil’s middle finger into his mouth and curls his tongue around it. 

“It’s… unseemly,” Cecil says, but his tongue touches his bottom lip, and he’s not pulling his hand away. Sounds a bit like he’s parroting someone else. 

Dart laughs around Cecil’s finger. “Sounds like the Templar have a lot of rules.” 

“It’s not a rule. That’s ridiculous.” The tips of Cecil’s ears burn red. “It’s just… good manners,” he finishes. “Expectations of behavior.” 

Dart lets go with a pop and wrinkles his nose. “Are you allowed to do anything?” 

“You wouldn’t understand.” Cecil wraps his hands around Dart’s waist and lifts Dart from his lap with seemingly no trouble at all, putting him back on his feet. “Perhaps once we arrive, it’ll become clearer.” 

Dart ignores the little thrill – he really shouldn’t enjoy getting manhandled so much. “Are we close?” 

Cecil frowns at the state of his trousers and tucks himself away. “If all goes well, we should be in Shandara before bedtime.” 

That’s unnerving. Dart thought he’d have a little more time to get used to the idea of it, maybe try and learn more of Cecil’s weaknesses, or figure out some kind of alternative plan. 

“That’s… great,” Dart says. He can’t manage proper enthusiasm to support the statement, so he doesn’t bother. He turns and tucks himself away. “Let’s get that tent set up. It’s going to be another cold one.” 

Cecil wordlessly agrees. 

Dart’s too spooked to be much use, however. After the third time tangling up the mounts, Cecil shoos him off, so Dart plops onto the log and watches Cecil work instead. It’s not a bad view, the fire glittering off Cecil’s armor and horns. The way his breeches cling to his ass, the occasional twitch of his tail, and the way he mutters to himself as he works. 

He sighs. “Any advice for the soon to be imprisoned?” he asks Sirene. 

“Don’t speak unless spoken to,” she replies without missing a beat. 

Dart’s jaw drops. “Seriously?” 

“Yes,” Sirene says, and Dart has never heard her sound so serious. Sirene is less playful as a rule, but her tone leaves no room for interpretation. “Cecil is kind, but Commander Menelaus will not find you or your rudeness charming. You will have to be polite.” 

Dart wrinkles his nose. 

“And obedient,” Sirene adds, like a nail in his coffin. 

“Eugh.” Disgust fills Dart all the way to his core. He shudders. 

“You’re the one who wanted to play pretend,” Sirene says, and not for the first time, Dart feels as if he’s being lectured by one of his teachers when he was a wee pup. “This is how you do it.” 

Dart slumps further. Not even watching Cecil work is enough to brighten his mood. He’s still trying to put it into perspective, to think about all the intel he could bring back to the Ori, back to his father. 

And then he remembers Stormhold. 

Cecil is not lying. He may only be telling the truth as he knows it, but his grief and anger are very real. Justified even. The likelihood of Dart convincing Cecil to switch sides is slim to none. At least, not unless he can find out more about what happened. 

If the Templar are to blame, he might be able to sway Cecil. If it had been the Ori, well, Dart might have to do some thinking himself. 

He gets it. This is war. War has casualties. People die. Buildings get destroyed. Hatred grows and grows on both sides, and he’s sure the Ori felt like they might have had no other choice. Maybe that level of destruction is why they haven’t used that weapon again. 

The Templar have probably done equally heinous things. Other than the obvious, of course. The whole stealing their home out from under the Ori, destroying the land, usurping the Zivati, corrupting M’ori, et cetera. 

Ugh, this is complicated. Too complicated. 

Maybe he should have stayed Undersea after all. 

“Cecil would let you go,” Sirene says. Quiet. Tentative. “It would break my heart, but I’d sooner sever our bond then see you die for a cause you don’t believe in.” 

For the first time, with the prospect of Shandara less than a day away, it’s tempting. Dart could do it. He could run away, run home, find someone willing to mate him to appease his mother. Find some duty to contribute and become part of the community. Spit out half a dozen pups to really buy his way into Mama’s graces. 

It’s an option. 

He’d be miserable, yeah, but he’d be alive. The Drylanders could keep slaughtering themselves, and Dart could flit around the sea, in his domestic cage of responsibility and pups. He’d be alive. He wouldn’t be living, but he’d be alive. 

“Dart?” 

He looks up. Cecil’s giving him a confused look, standing at the doorway of the tent, one hand pulling the door back. 

One way or another, it requires Dart to be obedient, something he’s never managed in his entire life. 

Fuck it. 

Dart stands and brushes off the seat of his pants. “Sorry. My thoughts were a million miles away. Did you say something?” 

Cecil gives him a long look before he says, “We should go to sleep and get an early start.” 

Well, if there’s one thing Dart has never turned down, it’s more sleep, though he’s not keen on the early start part of it. Maybe he can convince Cecil to do otherwise. He hears blow jobs are a great convincer. 

“Sure,” Dart says. “Shandara awaits, right?” 

“Right.” Cecil squints at him again, but must decide it’s not worth the headache, because he lets it pass and vanishes into the tent. 

Dart exhales and looks up at the sky. Yeah, he’s going to do this. Worse comes to worst, he’s got an emergency escape plan, though it’s less than ideal. 

“It’ll be fine,” Sirene says, baseless as ever. 

Dart’s not up for the argument. Instead, he joins Cecil in the tent and goes to sleep. 

–end chapter five? six? I lost count–

They reach Shandara just before sunset, but they are a good quarter mile away when Dart first lays eyes on the city. A tall tower rises above everything in the exact center of the city, three colorful flags flapping wildly in the breeze like a statement of ownership. Control Central, Cecil calls it, his face turned grim and serious, more so than usual. 

It’s their final destination, but first, they must enter Shandara proper, which in itself is a feat. Massive stone walls completely encircle Shandara, and the ground has been cleared for at least fifty feet in front of the walls, with not so much as a blade of grass to serve as cover. The walls themselves must be frequently scrubbed clean because Dart doesn’t see a single vine or shroom or bit of moss. 

It’s a stark difference to what Dart has seen among the Ori. They live with nature, taking shelter in natural caves or building high in the treetops, or digging into the earth. They blend. Hide. Use the natural surroundings to their advantage.

The Templar have definitely taken the completely opposite approach. 

Control Central is the only structure visible above the walls, though Dart occasionally spies a few roofs or upright flagpoles. Smoke rises from chimneys, puffing gray into the fading sunlight. 

The road they’re on is wide enough for a whole army troop to march side by side. It leads directly to Shandara, or more accurately, directly to a massive gate. Two smaller towers bracket this gate, and when Cecil raises a hand, one of the guards in the tower to the left acknowledges him. 

“Raise the gate!” he shouts. There are two answering shouts before the sound of chains clanking echoes from within the tower. 

The gate slowly inches upward, making enough room below for Cecil to enter, before the gate reverses course. It lands with an unsettling clunk behind Dart. He twists to look over his shoulder, but he can’t see anything through the closely laid slats.  

“No quick escape now,” Sirene murmurs. 

“That’s for the reminder,” Dart mutters. He tightens his grip on Cecil, struck with an unease he’s never felt before. 

Snow’s talons click on a road that’s now paved stones fitted together, all painfully clean, like someone spends their day just sweeping them. The streets are narrower now, with stone buildings sharing walls and flagpoles on just about every one of them. A few advertise goods and services. Others have family names or something Cecil calls an address. 

Occasionally narrow alleys connect to other streets and more stone buildings. Some of the houses have planters in their paned windows, glass glittering in the tall everlights that illuminate the streets in the absence of sunlight. There are weird metal grates built into the ground at an angle, leading down to who knows what.

Dart leans over to peer into one as they pass, but all he can see is glistening dark. Cecil catches him before he tilts out of the saddle. 

“They’re for the sewers,” he explains as he pushes Dart back into place. 

Dart squints. “What’s a sewer?” 

“It’s part of the indoor plumbing system,” Cecil explains as Dart goes back to staring around him, slack-jawed. 

The city is strange, the streets are strange, and the people! Dart’s used to the small Ori encampments, or the small village where most of the Ori civilians live in relative peace, left alone by the Templar so long as they pay their dues and aren’t caught harboring “Ori terrorists”. 

Shandara is crowded. The streets would be wide if not for being crammed with temporary vendors, many of whom are in the process of closing up shop for the night. They talk to each other in a rapid clip, too quick for Dart to parse, though he catches a few lamentations about low sales and drowning worries in liquor.

 There actually are people pushing huge brooms across the cobblestones, occasionally pausing to pick up some large piece of trash and shove it in a bag hanging on their belt. Families hurry home, laden with packages or children, and nearly all of them stare with keen interest. 

Some call out to Cecil, clearly familiar with him or his borse or both. Either that or they’re trained to offer respect to any passing soldier, because some of their greetings are generic. “Thank you for your service,” or “Guard us well!” 

Several openly stare at Dart, probably because they’re not used to seeing a mer around here. Everyone knows there’s a large sea-mer population in the Kelp Forest, but Dart’s kind has been notoriously against joining the war on either side. Oh, occasionally a hot headed juvenile will venture to Dryland in search of adventure, but they usually come skulking back. 

Dart’s the only one who’s ever left the Undersea the way that he did – with Sirene on his back and a determination to fight. 

All roads apparently lead straight to the Control Central, because Cecil doesn’t have to make any turns or dodge any obstacles. Everyone moves out of Snow’s way as soon as they see him coming, like they’re afraid of him. It’s unsettling. 

Cecil doesn’t pull Snow to a stop until they’re in a large courtyard in front of Control Central, bracketed on either side by two wings of the tower, a couple floors shorter, but equally imposing. A dozen or so Templar infantry loiter in the courtyard, talking to each other in small clumps, though their conversation dies the moment Cecil comes into view. All of them stop and stare as Cecil dismounts and takes Snow’s reins, guiding her in the direction of a stable on the bottom floor of the left wing. 

Dart feels even more on display now that he’s the only one in the saddle. He starts grinning and waving, just to make a show of it, and the gossip gets louder. They stop openly staring at least. So much for Templar manners. 

A young blue Tsak emerges from the stables as they approach, large tusks jutting from her bottom jaw, but her face lights up. 

“Stormhold, sir,” she greets, already reaching for the reins. “You’re back. When the others returned without Snow, I worried, but I should’ve known better. She’s a tough one.” 

“Aye, she is,” Cecil shifts his touch to Snow’s mane. “She’s worked hard to carry two for the past few days. I think she’d appreciate a rubdown.” 

The Tsak beams. “Oh, absolutely.” 

“Thank you, Alpine.” Cecil circles to Snow’s side and looks up at Dart before offering a hand like he’s some fair maiden who can’t hop down from a noble steed. 

Fuck that. 

Dart arches an eyebrow and hops down on his own. The cobblestones are hard beneath his feet, jarring all the way up his legs, but he muffles the gasp with a big yawn and stretches his arms over his head.

-----

Day 19 - 22 Word Count: 4623 Running Word Count: 46,759