#acury

[judithan-xing]

Color Palette Challenge: Complete✔️

List of characters :

Red: Valcher, The Last Vampire & Vulcan Orange: Riot Felmer, Lord of the Wicked & Tamara Star (aka the protagonist squad) Yellow: Cane Star & Gentri, God of Life Green: Sinclaire, Demon of the Machine & Princess Neptune Escala Cyan: Raine, Angel Beloved & Yuri Acuris, Star Child Blue: Judas, Demon Prince & Ethanor, Lifeblood Maiden Purple: Lunaris & Ubii, Ghost Maid Pink: Myari, Bunny Girl Barbie & Demon Lord Thrash

[jonathanreedacuris]

Identifying Niche Investment Opportunities

The allure of the untapped market beckons many investors. Niche markets, by definition, cater to specific segments within a broader industry. They present the potential for high returns due to less competition and a dedicated consumer base. However, navigating these avenues requires a keen eye and a calculated approach. This article explores strategies for identifying promising niche markets and delves into the advantages and considerations of such investing.

Identifying Niches

Specialized knowledge and expertise are key in identifying a niche. One effective approach involves turning personal interests into a springboard for discovery. If you possess a deep understanding of a particular hobby, activity, or product category, leverage that knowledge to explore unmet needs within that market. For example, an avid gardener might identify a gap in the market for organic, self-watering planters for urban balcony gardens.

Another strategy involves staying abreast of emerging industry trends. For instance, the growing popularity of plant-based diets has opened doors for investment in areas like vegan cheese alternatives or lab-grown meat substitutes. Following industry publications, attending trade shows, and analyzing consumer data can unveil these trends.

Everyday challenges faced by consumers can also translate into niche investment opportunities. For example, the rise of remote work has created a demand for ergonomic office furniture designed for home use. By identifying such “pain points,” investors can cater to a specific segment of consumers with a high willingness to spend.

Online forums, social media groups, and industry associations can be treasure troves for uncovering niche opportunities. Engaging with these communities allows investors to directly observe the challenges and desires of potential customers. By listening to their conversations, a potential for unique products or services can be identified.

While niches offer the benefit of less competition, a critical factor is ensuring that the market is large enough to sustain a business. Utilize market research tools and industry reports to assess the size of the niche and its projected growth trajectory. Targeting a niche with limited long-term potential can lead to a stagnant investment.

Advantages of Niche Investing

The primary benefit is the reduced level of competition. By focusing on a specific niche, investors can carve out their own space and avoid competing with established players in the broader industry. This allows for greater control over pricing, branding, and marketing strategies.

Niche markets foster a strong sense of community among consumers. Customers are often passionate about the niche and loyal to brands that cater to their specific needs. This loyalty translates into a more stable customer base and potentially higher customer lifetime value.

Finally, niche markets often allow for premium pricing due to the lack of readily available alternatives. Consumers within a niche are often willing to pay a higher price for a product or service that perfectly addresses their specific needs.

Considerations for Niche Investing

Niche markets, by nature, can be more susceptible to fluctuations. Changes in consumer preferences or disruptions within the broader industry can have a significant impact on a niche market. Diversification across multiple niches can mitigate this risk.

Exiting a niche investment can be challenging due to the smaller pool of potential buyers. Investors should carefully consider their long-term investment horizon before entering a niche market.

Reaching a specific target audience within a niche market requires tailored marketing strategies. Traditional marketing channels may not be as effective, and investors may need to explore digital marketing avenues or build relationships with industry influencers.

Niche markets offer a compelling proposition for investors seeking to navigate a less competitive landscape and potentially reap high returns. By employing a systematic approach to identify promising niches and carefully considering the associated advantages and challenges, investors can position themselves to uncover diamonds in the rough.

[6v-theblog]

Light Bush

2014

Chromogenic Print, 26 x 15in (ed. 15)

Amanda Acuri

[paperw0rmz]

This classic four panel meme was created 11 years ago today

Along with the start of the Skyrim meme which was six years ago today.

[radwolf76]

Next layer deep, the sources for the 3D Models used to make the GIF have been researched.

I know I'm a few days late for Halloween, but here's a video with some important implications for the Skeleton War

So, we've all seen this gif. It turns out, there's much misinformation about the origins of it. In the same vein as Kevin Perjurer's deep dive into the Disney Channel Jingle, or hbomberguy's exposé on the Roblox OOF, another intrepid YouTube researcher has done the legwork and found the real story.

[skittlesking]

I heard you do requests & I was wondering if you could draw my nightmare or what he prefers "Night or Blake" just hanging out or talking with your nightmare or any of your abandoned dreams AU?

"he's from my horrorverse AU where he gets thrown to another Multiverse for centuries by his corrupted counterpart and has to survive lots of horror universes like Silent hill,Amnesia,dead Island,Granny,happy humble Burger farm,FNAF,etc while having amnesia himself"

Nightmare wondering when he'll quick getting screwed over by the multiverse. Fr tho, AD! NM is acurious fellow and would have so many questions about the worlds Blake's been to, about his life. Like he has a son? How does the group feel about that, if he even has a group in his multiverse? Nightmare would enjoy meeting any alternate version of himself (that wasn't evil or corrupted-)

[thatmysticaltuxedocat-rp]

💛🧡

What is your favorite feature on yourself?

I'm really not sure I don't consider these things. Can I hand this question over to @acurious-cat ?

What is your sexuality?

Guess

[visxionaries]

@fromspringandfire

noted by maester acuri in the year 144ac, following a decree issued by king cedric of house tyrell, first of his name:

the lands and keep of hollywell, situated half a day's ride from highgarden and within lands of house tyrell, are hereby decreed a transfer of complete ownership to laena of house oldflowers. the deeds of the lands, including all livestock, farms, and subjects, are hereby issued to laena of house oldflowers.

ooc: following the appointment of becoming the official mistress of the reach king, laena has been allocated lands and a keep of her own, in her name. she has not been legitimised, but by law, these lands belong to laena and laena alone. hollywell is within tyrell land's, half a day's ride from highgarden itself.

[jonathanreedacuris]

The Importance of a Business Exit Strategy

In the lifecycle of a business, an exit strategy is not merely an endpoint but a significant component of strategic planning that helps ensure the sustainability and value maximization of the enterprise. This article explores the multifaceted benefits and importance of incorporating a well-defined exit strategy into business planning.

An exit strategy serves as a comprehensive plan for business owners to disengage from their company while achieving specific financial and personal objectives. Such strategies are varied, including but not limited to, selling the business, merging, passing it to family members, or management buyouts. Regardless of the method, the goal remains consistent: to facilitate a smooth transition and safeguard the company’s future and the owner's investment.

First and foremost, having an exit strategy provides the business owner with control over the future of the business. Planning an exit ensures that the business can continue to thrive under new ownership or management without being dependent on the original owner. This proactivity not only secures the legacy of the business but also enhances its attractiveness to prospective buyers or heirs, demonstrating that the business is well-prepared for the future and potentially increasing its market value.

Moreover, exit strategies are essential for financial and legal protection. They help business owners maximize the financial return from their investment in the business. By planning in advance, owners can optimize the timing of their exit to coincide with market conditions that favor higher business valuations. A planned exit also allows for the meticulous preparation of financial records and legal documents, which are crucial for a smooth due diligence process during the sale or transfer of the business. This preparation helps in minimizing risks associated with asset transfer, including legal liabilities and tax implications.

An often overlooked but critical aspect of exit planning is its role in business development. An exit strategy encourages long-term planning that can highlight a company’s strengths and weaknesses, fostering a strategy for continuous improvement. This not only aids in business growth but also in maintaining stability, which is a key concern for investors and financial partners.

Additionally, having an exit strategy in place can significantly aid in the negotiation process when selling the business. It prepares the owner to deal effectively with offers, boosting their ability to secure a deal that reflects the true value of the business. This preparation includes understanding the market, setting realistic prices, and anticipating potential buyer concerns, which collectively contribute to more favorable negotiation outcomes.

Lastly, from a personal perspective, a well-thought-out exit strategy provides the owner with peace of mind and financial security. Knowing that there is a plan in place for a future transition makes it easier to handle the emotional aspects of leaving a business that one has built and nurtured over years. It helps ensure that personal goals are met, whether they involve retirement, pursuing other interests, or facilitating financial stability for one’s family.

An exit strategy is not merely an endgame plan but a vital element of a business’s overall strategy that fosters continuity, maximizes value, and secures the owner's legacy. Business owners are encouraged to view exit planning as a critical component of their business development, rather than an afterthought, to reap the full benefits of their hard work and investment.

[konradnews]

Participation in the Understanding Risk Global Forum 2024 ｜ News & Media

summary Event Title: Understanding Risk Global Forum Date: June 16-21, 2024 Organized by: The World Bank/Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR) Location: Acurier Himeji, Himeji City, Hyogo, Japan The World Bank’s biennial Understanding Risk Global Forum brings together a diverse group of disaster risk reduction professionals to share the latest initiatives on disaster risk.…

[gobboguy]

Chapter 22: The Companions

Ulf sat by the fire, her knees pulled to her chest, feeling the oppressive weight of the crown. She stared into the flames, their warmth doing little to ease her troubled mind. As she gazed deeper, the flickering fire seemed to turn to glass, smooth and clear, revealing another world beyond.

In this dream-like vision, a glowing jewel descended slowly through an endless abyss, its light pulsing softly in the darkness. Ten green flames chased after it, each one flickering with a malevolent hunger. As they drew closer to the jewel, their light twisted and writhed, casting eerie shadows that seemed to reach out like grasping claws.

Other strange images drifted through the vision: a field of silver lilies turning to ash, a river of blood flowing uphill, and a sky filled with eyes that watched her every move. Amidst this surreal landscape, a shadowy figure loomed, its presence cold and menacing. The figure's voice echoed through the dream, a dark promise that sent chills down Ulf's spine.

"The Orcish Domination will fall," the figure whispered, its words dripping with malice. "I will destroy everything you hold dear."

From the darkness, a skeletal figure emerged, its bones clad in tattered robes. Its face was a grinning skull, and a forked snake tongue flicked out from its mouth, tasting the air. This was the Underking, the master of the dungeons, the harbinger of doom.

As the Underking reached out a bony hand towards the glowing jewel, Ulf felt a surge of terror. She wanted to scream, to fight, but she was frozen in place, powerless to stop the impending doom. The Underking's hollow eyes turned towards her, and she could feel his gaze pierce through her very soul.

With a start, Ulf awoke, the morning sun casting a pale light through her window. Her heart pounded in her chest, and she took a moment to steady her breath. The vision was vivid in her mind, the images seared into her memory. She knew what she must do.

Rising from her place by the fire, Ulf felt a newfound determination. She had to uncover the truth behind the curse and the Underking's threat. She had to protect her mother, her kingdom, and the legacy of the Orcish Domination. The path ahead was fraught with danger, but she was ready to face it head-on. With a fierce resolve, she set out to find the answers and the allies she needed to confront the looming darkness.

Later, Ulf stood tall in her mother’s grand council chamber, a place of authority and reverence. The room was filled with the key figures of the kingdom: Kota on her left, his serpentine eyes watchful and calculating; Gutd on her right, his massive frame a symbol of strength and loyalty; and all the ministers of state, their faces a mix of curiosity and concern.

Clearing her throat, Ulf addressed the assembly. “I have called you all here because I have received a vision,” she began, her voice steady and commanding. “A vision from MOG, the Dark God. In it, I saw a Key of Creation, lost in the dungeons below our very city. It was dropped while being transported, a forgotten artifact that now holds the power to save or destroy us.”

Murmurs rippled through the crowd, but Ulf raised a hand to silence them. “Just as ten tribes left Orc Island to forge a new destiny, so too will ten warriors delve into the depths below this castle to retrieve the key and thwart whatever sinister plan this ‘Underking’ has in store for us.”

Gutd, ever the cautious strategist, stepped forward. “Your Highness, a full regiment should go. The danger—”

Ulf cut him off with a sharp look. “No, Gutd. The Kingdom of Acury is massing at our borders, ready to turn our fields to ash. Every soldier must be levied to defend the borders. A large force would be too slow, too noticeable. But a small group of ten can move swiftly and strike decisively. Ten Companions to ride forth and save the kingdom.”

She paused, letting her words sink in, then turned her gaze to the suitors gathered in the room. “Now is the time for you to prove your worth,” she declared. “Eight of you will join me, making us nine.”

The suitors exchanged confused glances, whispering among themselves. Who would be the tenth? Ulf smiled knowingly, the answer clear in her mind.

She stepped forward, looking each suitor in the eye, then turned to the assembly. “I know who the tenth will be,” she said, her voice filled with conviction. “It is someone who has already proven their value in ways that go beyond the battlefield.”

The room fell silent, every eye on Ulf as they awaited her next words.

Ulf stood tall and commanding in the center of the council chamber, her eyes narrowing with determination. She gestured to the guards at the door. "Bring forth the prisoner."

The heavy wooden doors creaked open, and Twig was dragged in chains before the council. He was thrown roughly to the ground, eliciting a chorus of delighted oinking and snorts from the assembled Orcs.

Ulf stepped forward, her gaze piercing. "Twig, you will accompany us as the tenth member of our group."

Twig looked up, eyes wide with shock and defiance. "No, I won't! I didn't sign up for this, and I won’t be a pawn in your game."

Ulf's expression hardened. "You will. You’re our insurance against your father, the Forest Protector. If you refuse, you will be executed on the spot."

Twig groaned, shaking his head in exasperation. "This is madness. I had no part in my father's plans, and I want no part of yours."

Ulf slapped her belly with a commanding thud, her voice echoing through the chamber. "Alden will pay for his crimes, and you will help us make sure of that. Your life depends on it."

Twig groaned again, realizing the futility of his situation. "Fine, I'll go. But this is insanity. If I die down there, it’s on your head."

Ulf's eyes blazed with determination. "Do as you're told, and you might just live to see another day. We leave at dawn."

The room fell silent, the weight of her words hanging heavily in the air as Twig was dragged back to his feet, his fate sealed.

The room filled with the concerned grunts and oinks of the Orcs, the suitors all standing tall. Dura, the sister of the late Duran, slapped her belly to gain attention. "Let me replace my brother and avenge his death," she declared, her voice steady and resolute.

Ulf smiled, nodding approvingly. "That was my plan all along."

The Orcs slapped their bellies in approval, their calls of revenge resonating through the chamber. In the eyes of MOG, avenging one's own blood was holy.

Suddenly, a voice piped up with a cough. The Orc merchant known as Hate approached, standing before the assembly with a cocky and sly grin. Hate was a striking figure among the Orcs, his lean frame clothed in a mix of practicality and style that marked him as both a merchant and a warrior. He wore a long, dark coat made of supple leather, its edges trimmed with silver, and beneath it, a finely woven tunic adorned with intricate patterns depicting Orcish symbols of trade and prosperity. His pants were sturdy, dark green fabric tucked into high, polished boots that spoke of both his travels and his keen attention to detail. Around his waist, a broad belt held various pouches and small, glittering trinkets, each a testament to his extensive dealings and the wealth he had accumulated.

Topping off his ensemble was a wide-brimmed hat, a rarity among Orcs, which he wore with a certain rakish charm. The hat's brim cast a shadow over his sharp features, accentuating the cunning gleam in his eyes. His hair, long and dark, was tied back in a neat ponytail, and a single earring glittered in his left ear, catching the light with every movement. Hate's appearance was a carefully crafted blend of elegance and menace, a visual testament to his dual nature as a shrewd merchant and a capable combatant, ready to prove his worth to the Queen and her court. "My Queen, might I be allowed to join you in this grand crusade?" he asked, his tone smooth and confident.

Ulf frowned, confusion evident on her face. "What? You, Hate? Why would you want to join us?"

Hate spread his arms wide, his smile never faltering. "Ah, my Queen, such an opportunity to prove myself to you and to our people cannot be ignored. Allow me to take the place of any suitor you choose."

The court burst into laughter, but Rogmog the Bloody stood, his face a mask of fury. "Impudent merchant! How dare you mock the Princess's decision? Holy MOG made it clear that the Companions should number ten!"

"Then I should take the place of one of you." Hate nodded to the suitors. "Shouldn't be difficult."

"You should learn your place merchant..." Growled Rogmog.

Hate's smile remained jovial as he lifted an eyebrow. "Are you challenging me, Rogmog?"

Rogmog roared, his voice echoing through the chamber. "I will silence your insolence with your blood!"

The court grew silent, the tension palpable. The Orcs practiced a policy of "You keep what you kill." If Hate wanted a place among the Companions, killing Rogmog was a surefire way of getting it. All eyes turned to Ulf, awaiting her decision on whether to allow this deadly contest to proceed.

The grand hall was cleared swiftly, the Orcs forming a rough circle around Rogmog and Hate. The tension was palpable as the two combatants faced off, each armed with a single, wickedly sharp knife. Rogmog's snarl echoed through the chamber, "You dare mock the Princess's decision, merchant? I'll silence your forked tongue once and for all!" His massive frame loomed over Hate, muscles bulging with every breath.

Hate responded with a mocking smile, tipping his wide-brimmed hat. "Mockery, Rogmog? I merely challenge your confidence. Perhaps you should have stayed in your home, where your biggest worry was serving your mother instead of facing a real fight."

The fight began with a ferocious intensity. Rogmog lunged forward, his knife flashing in a wide arc. Hate deftly sidestepped, his own blade dancing through the air to nick Rogmog's arm. Rogmog grunted in pain, his eyes blazing with fury. He countered with a brutal slash that grazed Hate's side, drawing blood. The merchant-turned-warrior didn't falter, his movements precise and calculated.

Sweat poured from their brows as the fight continued, each strike more vicious than the last. Rogmog's strength was matched by Hate's agility, the two circling each other like predators. "You'll regret this, you snake!" Rogmog bellowed, his knife slicing the air dangerously close to Hate's face. Hate laughed, a light, taunting sound. "Regret? I'm just starting to enjoy myself."

The intensity of the fight grew, with Rogmog's attacks becoming more frenzied and Hate's movements increasingly nimble. At one point, Rogmog's knife found its mark, slashing across Hate's chest and causing a spurt of blood. Hate winced but did not retreat, retaliating with a swift jab that left a deep gash on Rogmog's thigh. The crowd of Orcs roared with excitement, their eyes gleaming as they watched the fierce duel unfold.

In a sudden, desperate move, Rogmog swept Hate's legs out from under him, sending the merchant sprawling to the ground. Rogmog stood over him, his chest heaving and his eyes wild with triumph. "This is the end for you, you conniving coward!" he roared, raising his knife high for the killing blow.

But Hate, ever the cunning strategist, seized the moment. As Rogmog's knife descended, Hate flung his own blade with deadly precision. The knife flew straight and true, embedding itself deep in Rogmog's eye. The burly Orc's roar turned into a choked gasp as he collapsed to the ground, dead before he hit the floor. Hate slowly stood, wiping the blood from his face and straightening his hat. "It seems your regrets came a bit too late, Rogmog," he murmured, his voice dripping with sly satisfaction.

Ulf nodded, her eyes narrowing as she surveyed the fallen Rogmog and the victorious Hate. By the ancient laws of the Orcs, Hate had earned his place among the Companions. The merchant-turned-warrior would descend into the depths of Sidhedark, joining the others in their perilous quest to save the Domination. With this final addition, the company of ten was complete, bound by fate and bloodshed to protect their land and restore their queen. As the gathered Orcs slapped their bellies in approval, Ulf's gaze hardened with resolve. The path ahead was fraught with danger, but together, they would face whatever darkness awaited them below.

[becoming-not-became]

Rough

Spying upon something be it rocktrinket or person its value seldom shows at surface and only acuriously kind eye can ever seebeneath and wonder if this thing this very thing is a treasure or if itwhich is often just a veneerworthless except tothose who relish in cheap varnish

[thatmysticaltuxedocat-rp]

You good babe? Something happen?

@acurious-cat

Something very confusing yet hilarious

I simply cannot describe it

[rowsandrows-of-roses]

NAME: Dowager Lady Ines Isabela Madrigal Clayton FC: Muriel Villera AGE: 42 MAGIC STATUS: Giifted -- chlorokinesis (out) OCCUPATION: Lady of Larchwood CURRENT LOCATION: Oxfordshire, England RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Widow to the late Baron William Clayton CHILDREN: Octavia Julieta Madrigal Clayton, Jocasta Valeria Madrigal Clayton, Beatrice Ximena Madrigal Clayton

BIOGRAPHY:

Isabela knew what she was getting into with her marriage to Clayton. Looking back on it now, after several years, she knows this was always the case, even if at the time she tried to convince herself that it was love.

It was comfort she had wanted. She knew that Clayton didn't love her. That he probably wouldn't even be faithful. But that didn't matter. What mattered was making sure Mirabel could finish her degree and get her therapy license. It mattered that Abuela Alma stayed comfortable for all her days. That her parents were happy and healthy and never had to worry.

They did their duty. Three beautiful daughters later, Isabela didn't have the heart for any more. Clayton wasn't interested enough in the barony or her by then anyway.

Of course, to the world, they were a lovely couple. They held each other's hands at events, smiled, spoke warmly. They never fought. They hardly saw each other except for when required. Children's recitals, charity galas, and the like. Until Clayton stopped even showing up for those.

It was one thing for her to turn a blind eye to the long hunting trips and women's perfume that wafted through the castle. It was another for him to embarrass her in front of everyone.

That was when Isabela finally grew bitter and with it: her magic. Her beautiful flowers wilted and turned thorny on their stems. Anything she grew was crooked, half-starved looking. It was no longer beautiful and she rarely created anything at all. Except for a lovely belladonna plant that she kept in her windowsill.

It's very tragic, what happened to her husband, but Isabela hasn't had time to grieve. She's currently battling for Larchwood, her eldest daughter's birthright, before the last two decades of her own life are snatched away from her and she is left with nothing...

see below the cut for a peak at Isabela's youngest daughter's bio!

NAME: Miss Beatrice Ximena Madrigal Clayton FC: Amanda Acuri AGE: 15 MAGIC STATUS: Gifted -- invisibility (out) OCCUPATION: Being a rich girl CURRENT LOCATION: Oxfordshire, England RELATIONSHIP STATUS: N/A SIBLINGS: Octavia Julieta Madrigal Clayton, Jocasta Valeria Madrigal Clayton

BIOGRAPHY:

Ximena loves her Spanish name and her big, empty English castle. She likes to play hide and seek and can disappear for hours, literally. Which is just how she likes it.

Her older sisters are beautiful and ruthless. Ximena is known as the sweet one. Maybe that is why it is so easy to gather secrets like plucking flowers from the garden. She knows one about everyone in her family and she isn't afraid to share when the moment strikes...

[wiithstars]

bold all that apply to your muse , memories of my childhood edition…

tw, contains mentions of abuse / neglect / death / trauma

scraped knees,  silent tears in a locked room,  slamming doors,  pervasive loneliness,  a dog barking,  rain on a metal roof,  flinching at movement,  the creak of an old house,  forced laughter,  wandering in the dark woods,  wondering how you made it through,  sudden loss,  trying to make sense of the noise, hiding what you love to protect it,  trying to explain but your words falter,  invaded privacy,  confusion at the pain,  running barefoot in the grass,  wondering what you did wrong and coming up with nothing,  realizing you aren’t a priority,   grass stains on white clothing,  trying to earn love you will never have,  being threatened over the smallest mistake,  secrets you are warned not to share,  the feeling of never being good enough,  the hope things might someday get better,  grief that aches in your bones, childish dares and pranks, the sense that your body isn’t yours,  shame and guilt that aren’t yours to carry,  sledding down a frozen hill,  absentmindedly following snakes through the grass,  punching a tree until your knuckles bleed, tears over every dead creature you find,  searching out small places you can hide... just in case,  climbing the tallest tree so they can’t touch you,  the feeling of something tainted under your skin,  a curious child told to stop asking,  floral dresses,  body tensing at approaching footsteps,  anger with nowhere to go,  brief escapes from the chaos,  the purr of a contented cat,  taking the blame to keep the peace,  being told you’re too sensitive,  the creaking springs of a trampoline on a sunny day

[fragilcline]

bold all that apply to your muse , memories of my childhood edition…

tw, contains mentions of abuse / neglect / death / trauma

scraped knees,  silent tears in a locked room,  slamming doors,  pervasive loneliness,  a dog barking,  rain on a metal roof,  flinching at movement,  the creak of an old house,  forced laughter,  wandering in the dark woods,  wondering how you made it through,  sudden loss,  trying to make sense of the noise, hiding what you love to protect it,  trying to explain but your words falter,  invaded privacy,  confusion at the pain,  running barefoot in the grass,  wondering what you did wrong and coming up with nothing,  realizing you aren’t a priority,   grass stains on white clothing,  trying to earn love you will never have,  being threatened over the smallest mistake,  secrets you are warned not to share,  the feeling of never being good enough,  the hope things might someday get better,  grief that aches in your bones, childish dares and pranks, the sense that your body isn’t yours,  shame and guilt that aren’t yours to carry,  sledding down a frozen hill,  absentmindedly following snakes through the grass,  punching a tree until your knuckles bleed, tears over every dead creature you find,  searching out small places you can hide... just in case,  climbing the tallest tree so they can’t touch you,  the feeling of something tainted under your skin,  a curious child told to stop asking,  floral dresses,  body tensing at approaching footsteps,  anger with nowhere to go,  brief escapes from the chaos,  the purr of a contented cat,  taking the blame to keep the peace,  being told you’re too sensitive,  the creaking springs of a trampoline on a sunny day