#he studies stars and lives in an observatory tower

[vinestaff]

?!?!?!??!?!?!?

[powdermelonkeg]

Personal headcanons for Gale's tower layout:

5F: An astronomical observatory with an orrery in it. The stardome is enchanted to reflect whatever sky and weather Gale wishes; if he wants to see the stars in Kythorn, that's what it shows him. If he wants rainy weather to read to, guess what. The stars reflect whatever position the orrery's been set to. There's a walkable ledge around the exterior of the roof for Tara's pigeon-hunting.

4F: A portal room, surrounded by three guest bedrooms and a bathroom. The bedrooms are themed: one smells like a sea breeze and faces the harbor, colored with sunset shades with gold accents, one smells like rose potpourri and fresh grass, mostly pastel purple with brass, one smells faintly spiced, deep maroon and bronze. Morena prefers the rose one. Each one comes equipped with a vanity that has three (magic) mirrors, a wardrobe that removes wrinkles and stains of anything hung in it and repairs minor stitches, a set of candles that never burn down their wicks, and curtains that, when drawn, enact a silent barrier around the room. The floors are polished hardwood with plush, patterned carpets. The bathroom is self-cleaning, has running water on command, whatever temp you want it, warms towels for you, and has a magic mirror (magic mirrors in my headcanon show hairstyles and things you WANT to try before you actually try them out).

3F: Gale's floor. His bedroom, a walk-in closet, a room for Tara, and a personal bathroom. Gale's bedroom has silence-spelled drapes, glowing crystal sconces he can dim with a wave, a desk, a large canopy bed (the one he summons during his last night in Act II), a small bookshelf for whatever he's currently reading that doubles as his nightstand, and a plush window seat. The walk-in closet is neatly sorted, with everything from travel robes to finery to wear to the annual Blackstaff Ball, and has the same enchantments in it as the guest room wardrobes, with the added effect of making anything put in it inexplicably smell like a library. His bathroom is just like the guest ones, but larger. The bathtub inside, when activated, always assumes he wants his bath piping hot and lavender-scented. Tara's room is smaller, but fully designed for her little cat body. Scratching posts, cat-sized perches and comfy cat towers, and a little bookcase and window seat of her own. She keeps her space VERY neat, in contrast to Gale's "organized chaos" sort of living.

2F: This is the floor we see in Gale's Act II illusion. The packed library, the messy desk, the private study, the balcony... He sorts his books by topic, then by date rather than author. Tara is appalled by it. The balcony has a minor enchantment to keep weather, pigeons, and seagulls off of it. Tara is upset at the lack of birds; it's SUCH a cozy napping spot, and you're going to take away her free breakfast, too? Gale's compromise was the 5th floor's walkable ledge, which is a prime pigeon-hunting perch.

1F: The entry floor. It's got a sitting room to entertain guests with, and a large, well-kitted kitchen. The dishwashing basin does the washing for Gale. On the wall in the sitting room, there are two notable paintings: one is of young, 10-year-old Gale in a cape, standing proudly with both his parents and holding his first-ever proper wizard staff. He's TRYING to have Tara on his shoulders, he insisted, but she's just too big, so he's wound up leaning forward where she awkwardly perches on his back. He has a snaggle tooth. The other painting is of a much older Gale, dressed finely and standing with his mother, smiling. It was made before he got the beard, so he looks a decent bit younger than he is. Tara is wrapped around Morena's shoulders like one of those feather boas, but she's headbutting Gale's shoulder affectionately.

B1: Gale's wine cellar and well-stocked pantry. He collects all kinds of wines from all over Faerûn, usually getting them from merchants that pass through Waterdeep, but he's not opposed to cracking open an expensive vintage with the right company. There's a locked cabinet labeled "in case of Elminster" that contains some cheeses and wine to offer the older wizard, that way Elminster doesn't raid Gale's pantry when he's not looking. If you don't feed Elminster, he WILL feed himself at your expense.

B2: Gale's spell workshop, scroll storage, alchemy lab, and vault. Gale's not especially well-versed in alchemy (I think Wyll's got dibs on that, personally), but he DOES mix himself up some Arcane Cultivation elixirs from time to time. And if a potion recipe intrigues him enough, he likes to have a place on hand to try things out. The vault is well-guarded with spells, but, sadly, pretty empty; it just has his savings there now, where once it held all sorts of enchanted items he'd picked up through his studies and younger adventuring days.

An additional note: Tara has perches all throughout the house, on every floor, basically anywhere Gale spends a lot of time doing things. The cushions that are hers are magically heated and smell like tea and mint.

[the-starless-reader]

Death by a Thousand... Stars?

I've been going through my notes on Siege and Storm, and one particular detail stood out. It's an excerpt from the prologue:

[...] they stood together on deck, picking out constellations from the vast spill of stars: the Hunter, the Scholar, the Three Foolish Sons, the bright spokes of the Spinning Wheel, the Southern Palace with its six crooked spires.

The note says: Double-check the constellations! Alina's bedchamber has a star-speckled dressing screen! The Darkling's bedchamber has constellations on the ceiling!

And then I remembered my notes on Ruin and Rising. And guess what? The monastery of Sankt Demyan, otherwise known as the Spinning Wheel, was turned into an observatory 'a few hundred years ago'. Double-check the constellations!

[...] the bronze columns were constellations—the Hunter with his drawn bow, the Scholar bent in study, the Three Foolish Sons, huddled together, trying to share a single coat. The Bursar, the Bear, the Beggar. The Shorn Maiden wielding her bone needle. Twelve in all: the spokes of the Spinning Wheel.

It's been abandoned 'for over a century'. This version of the Darkling is approximately 120 years old. Coincidence? I think not. Sugar had been rationed in Ravka for the last hundred years, which can only mean that the current war had started around the same time he'd made himself known again.

But what about the monastery? I think that the Darkling was the one who'd turned it into an observatory. My only proof is a tale found in The Language of Thorns. It's a story about his half-sister Ulla, titled When Water Sang Fire. Our Youngling was the seer's apprentice in the lost city of Söndermane, a scholar cloistered in the Prophetic’s Tower. A stargazer!

At each level the apprentice named another subject: history, augury, geography, mathematics, alchemy. Ulla hoped they’d wind all the way to the top of the tower, where she knew they’d find the famous observatory.

However, stargazing wasn't his only preoccupation there. But we'll come back to that later. Double-check the constellations! Let's get back to the twelve spokes of the Spinning Wheel.

The Hunter with his drawn bow? That's Sankt Petyr, with his still-burning arrows. The Scholar bent in study must be Sankt Dimitri. The Bear is obviously Sankt Grigori. The Shorn Maiden wielding her bone needle is probably Sankta Vasilka, the first firebird.

What about the others? Thirteen Saints were shown on the massive triptych behind the altar in the original Lantsov chapel, where the first Ravkan kings were crowned. Thirteen Saints were featured in the original version of the Istorii Sankt’ya. But there are only twelve spokes, twelve constellations. Who's the odd one out?

Sankt Demyan is most certainly not, and here's why.

According to The Lives of Saints, the site of Sankt Demyan's death is the tallest mountain in the Elbjen. He was the nobleman who owned the land upon which a cemetery stood; and when the birches started to obscure the path, he had his servants cut a new one. When the rains came to disturb the cemetery, Demyan designed the aqueduct around the graveyard, diverting the water to irrigate the fields. But the people still complained.

He was desperate to please them. He asked the Saints to raise the cemetery up to the sun itself, so it would no longer be obscured by the shade of his previous creations.

He laid his hands upon the soil, and the earth began to shake. The ground rose higher and higher, until the highest mountain was made. The cemetery was intact, but his own family crypt was broken. The people accused Demyan of disrespecting his family name by using dark magic, and the angry mob stoned him to death. He became known as the patron saint of the newly dead.

Sankt Demyan's miracle was the creation of the highest mountain in the northern Sikurzoi.

But why is this important? Because the Sikurzoi mountains cover most of Ravka's eastern and southern border with Shu Han. And the Spinning Wheel is located in the Elbjen, which is the Fjerdan name for the northern range of Sikurzoi. More so, it's the place the first firebird came from. And that firebird is Ravka.

But what if I tell you that the first Taban queens also come from the highest mountains of the Sikurzoi range? The palace of the Taban dynasty has the Court of the Golden Wing. You know who else has golden wings? Sankta Vasilka, the first firebird.

It's said that the borders of Ravka were sketched by the firebird's flight. Its rivers run with the firebird's tears. And when one of her feathers fell to earth, the young warrior picked it up and carried it into battle. No one could defeat him, and so he became the first king of Ravka.

But where are the stars? The old Taban queen resides in the place called the Palace of Thousand Stars. Even before the first Taban queens have come to their rule, Sankta Neyar was already one of the Six Soldiers, the sacred protectors of the Shu Han.

Remember the constellations? The Southern Palace and its six crooked spires? The Spinning Wheel? It's all there, written in the stars.

And the Starless Saint knows that.

His bedchamber is built on a hexagonal plan, like the temples of Ahmrat Jen. His dark wood walls are carved into the illusion of a forest crowded with slender trees. The birch trees, like the ones growing around the cemetery. He almost died there, once.

Demon in the wood. Demyan in the wood.

The domed ceiling above his bed is spangled with chips of mother-of-pearl laid in constellations, to create the illusion of the Spinning Wheel. The ebony screen in Alina's bedchamber is speckled with mother-of-pearl stars, too. It was probably brought from his rooms, as only his chambers are furnished in ebony.

It's death by a thousand stars...

[wifiwulf04]

Sunstreaker: "It's Iacon's art sector and Kaon's... one of the borders between sectors. The Pits, or at least the state sanctioned arena, connected to Iacon's High Court.

For all the beauty of Iacon, most see it as the colour of life, of the energon that flows through all our lines, but Sides and I saw it for what it was: built out of the energon of the lower class to cushion the lives of the upper class.

Kaon was a... mash of upper and lower class, not that there wasn't a clear disparity. It was a city of production, energon factories run by slavers across the road from high class residences. The building with a single glyph was the slave's housing. Across from it was energon production, where the energon mined was processed into commercial energon. Next to that is where the energon was stored before being shipped out.

The pyramid was the Temple of Primus, where the Primes ruled from. On the Kaon side was... I don't remember, but I think it was Kaon's court. Maybe it was even the Pits that we knew, shielded from aerial view. It was probably the Pits.

It's day time in Iacon and night in Kaon. The binary stars (Alpha Centauri A and B) Cybertron anchored itself to thanks to the Simfur Temple against... a moon (Luna 1) in Kaon's sky."

Sunstreaker: *He pauses to look at the others*

Wulf: "You liked the crystal building, and the park in the middle?"

Sunstreaker: "The park was nice, lots of maintaned... [untranslated]."

Wulf: "Technograss and crystal trees?"

Sunstreaker: "They weren't crystal. Maybe silica? We didn't exactly study biology."

Wulf: "I get it. The museums?"

Sunstreaker: "The three domed buildings are linked. The green building was an art museum, more art history and kept away from natural lights. The building next to it had a clear ceiling, probably made of crystal. The third had a retractable ceiling, it was an observatory. Closed in the day and open at night."

Wulf: "And the crystal building?"

Sunstreaker: "An art museum that always had new exhibits. It was more for the upper class than the other one... It was also where I exhibited my work for a while, before everything went to slag."

Wulf: "The double-helixed building next to it?"

Sunstreaker: "That was the work of some pompous Towers mech. I... don't know much else about it, other than the fact that whoever he commissioned should have done better."

Wulf: "Shoulda commissioned you?"

Sunstreaker: "I don't do architecture. Sides was the more... math-oriented one."

Wulf: "Duly noted." *They look amused* "What about the crystal-shaped buildings?"

Sunstreaker: "The slanted ones were the Towers. The rest were other high class mechs and the largest building was where the Iaconian Council... met? Lived? Never found out."

Wulf: "Might very well have been both. Avengers assemble and all that." *They snicker to themself while Sunstreaker looks confused*

Pyreseus: "Focus, dove. Sunstreaker, anything else you want to say about this piece?"

Sunstreaker: "... No. I've covered everything. It's long gone."

*Wulf blocks the view of Sunstreaker as Pyreseus approaches him*

Wulf: "Right, we were going to put this up on Ko-fi, but Sunny's attached to it so it stays with us! He's drawing up plans for the next one though, which is?"

Sunstreaker: *muffled, out of sight* "Praxus' crystal gardens. The part with specimens from all over Cybertron."

Wulf: "Right! Can't wait to see that, and so far he's been amenable to putting it on Ko-fi, but we'll see. Subject to change. For now, next thing that's definitely going up on Ko-fi when it's done is chibi!Sideswipe pride stickers. Until next time, that's all, folks!"

Transcribed by Robin

[legend-as-old-as-time]

Exactly!!! They grew when they were away from home, and they are part of what's making home better = unrecognizable.

It's a slow, creeping realization.

It's when Nixie asks to work in the provisional observatories in Ko-Metru. Nuju tries reject her on the grounds that she's not a ko-matoran. Before he realizes that not many ko-matoran left did study the stars on Mata Nui. She does understand how to read the patterns in Metru Nui's stars and has the time to teach others, unlike him.

He feels adrift as he guides the physical work - a mixed group of matoran - to repair houses and the towers. Sometimes he helps without his matatu. He and the others needed to build homes in Ko-Koro, but it feels so different now that he's doing the same in Ko-Metru.

Nuju slowly becomes aware that hundreds of matoran must've maintained Ko-Metru and make his job possible in the past. He refuses to speak about that but it keeps running around his mind.

It's when Nokama faces her previous privilege and Ga-Metrus. Ga-matoran now want to be involved in rebuilding. Their numbers are also necessary - population dwindled because of death on Mata Nui and they couldn't make new ones.

Some of them ask, was I really a student all the time? How much was there to learn and why? It sounds boring. Wait, ga-matoran were almost only students, teachers, and scientists? Who cleaned all of this then? Who repaired things? Why were matoran from the other metrus made to do this?

And Nokama has no good answers. Or why things were like that. Or why she sometimes scolds them to do their duty or they'll get everybody into trouble. Trouble with whom?

It's when a growing village in Po-Metru needs supplies. Onewa snaps that those spoiled other Metrus will not help before he remembers.

There's a working supply line. The village will offer similar comforts as to Po-Koro once it's finished. Po-Metru is receiving what they need. The inhabitants don't need to tough it out.

A matoran asks, what does he mean, spoiled? They helped earlier out at the Archives and saw the many stasis tubes. Onu-matoran must have wrangled rahi daily if Turaga Whenua is to believed. They're still working to stabilize the upper tunnels.

It's when confusion appears about how Metru Nui used to be run. Everybody lived much closer to each other in the Metrus than they do in the Koros. Why didn't they support each other more? The koros held contact when Makuta wasn't separating them.

And the six turaga will NOT encourage division. But the question remains. Because the turaga have to admit that the social division existed in Metru Nui long before Makuta kidnapped and pretended to be Dume.

Daily, often hourly, something comes to the turaga's attention about Metru Nui that needs changing or how it used to be.

And how it used to be was largely bad for everybody.

I like the idea of a story where, rather than that the turaga are already aware of at least some of Metru Nui's bad things being inherent, the realization proper starts with their return.

It's the ease the matoran keep working. They have regular breaks, can call in sick, socialize, and play, and are all the more productive for it.

The Rahaga and Dume have helped calm down the lingering rahi or put them elsewhere where they could live in peace. The matoran know how to live with them and the ones reintroduced.

So, no more imprisoning rahi in the Archives. Whenua headstarts a mapping of everything before anybody starts to explore and renovate them.

Matoran of the different koros mingle to help with rebuildung. They help rebuild the chute system and the core knots in Le-Metru. Po-Metru gets proper villages with supply lines. They rebuild each metru, every important piece of infrastructure, to safe.

The turaga feel uneasy. Like there's something missing but they can't think of what. This is everything they wanted, isn't it? Isn't it?

This unease only shows at what it is - haircracks in their beliefs - when Jaller demands accountability from them. Demands them to tell the truth. And when they can't to his satisfaction, he calls out a city-wide strike. One that most matoran heed! All six of the Metrus!

The haircracks split open.

Impossible in the old Metru Nui. The six Turaga (Mata Nui)'s minds try to understand, struggling to bridge the gap between what they knew as normal as matoran and what their community is like now.

Nobody would've thought of a strike except if another civil war had been building up. Nobody would've thought of the Metrus working together. Nobody would've dared to speak up against Dume.

Or not openly, not with the threat of the vahki.

But. There are no vahki anymore. There haven't been any vahki in Metru Nui for a millenium.

Metru Nui works. It lives. There is no need for the vahki. The turaga didn't even notice the unusual peace stems from the lack of the robotic enforcers. The matoran don't fear retribution for calling out authority on their mistakes.

There are less accidents because working the conditions are safer. Why weren't they safe before?

Peace and safety without the vahki, because there are none. What a joke.

Yet, here they are. The turaga's world is not tilting anymore. It's breaking. With the fear of Mata Nui dying, they don't have time to think about it. Even less time when Teridax begins his reign. Survival matters more.

Then Metru Nui dies once more, this time apparently for good. The truth about the universe is revealed. Most if not all inhabitants migrate to Spherus Magna. A new sort of peace is established, with new dangers threatening it.

The turaga have now time again to think. They unconsciousness is doing the work of what they've realized even if they refuse to. It's here that their mental breakdown starts.

[eunsuri]

Fool

Pairing: Loki x Reader

Summary: Months after the events in Svartalfheim, you are summoned to Asgard by Odin, where you discover that your lover still lives. (Post Dark World)

Word Count: 1,820

Warnings: None, except a tiny bit of angst and a little fighting.

A/N: Ok so this is something I couldn't get out of my head after binge-watching Marvel movies and my love for Loki re-emerged once again. I have an idea for a full fic of adventures with Loki during his reign of Asgard and beyond, so do let me know if you'd like me to turn this into a full work rather than just a little oneshot. You can also read on AO3 if you prefer. 

The bright light of the Bifrost flashed and flickered around you, your hair settling as the blasting wind from the portal came to a halt. Your feet landed gracefully on the Observatory floor and you tucked your staff into its holster against your back, the iron snapping into the handle.

A bald, burly man stood in the center, gripping Hofund tightly in his gloved hands while two Asgardian ladies dressed in fine silk gowns were seated on the stairs. The three gawked at you intently, your clothing and staff a clear indication of the fact that you were not of Asgard. 

“Skurge, I presume? Where is Heimdall?” You questioned the tall man as you eyed the two maidens with a raised brow.

“He’s been banished. Heimdall is a traitor to Asgard,” he informed haughtily.

You pressed your lips together firmly and nodded, “Right.”

“You’re the sorceress the King sent for?” Skurge released the Bifrost Sword and stepped down towards you.

“Correct,” you gave another nod and began towards the Rainbow Bridge. “I assume I have no need to be announced.” 

Without waiting for a response, you strolled past the giant golden cogs and through the archway. The fresh air filled your lungs instantly and the warm sunlight bathed your skin through the clouds. You loved the glistening gold structures of Asgard which towered high into the sky while the waters around the land rippled and glittered from the reflection. The length of the Bridge stretched out across to the grand Palace, an array of colours shining through the crystalline surface. 

Your staff slid open to its full length when you removed it from the holster, tapping it against the Bridge before leaping onto the iron steadily as it released a burst of wind and thrust you across the air. Much faster this way.

The breeze rushed through your tresses and your clothes flapped back and forth while you glided towards the enormous structure. You could make out the contours of other planets and moons in the sky, shying behind stars as the sun had made its way further down. Asgard was truly a magnificent sight to behold, but it brought a bittersweet taste to your senses upon your return to the land. It was nearing a full year since your last visit, before you had lost someone dear to you.

Once you had arrived at your destination, you hopped to the ground at the entrance and tucked the staff away. You inhaled deeply to soothe and steel your heart, then proceeded into the Palace and towards the Throne Room. Although you had seen it before, the large hall still astounded you with its thick golden columns and intricately painted tiles. 

Four guards stood on either side of the throne towards the back, at the ready, and seated upon the magnificently designed throne was Odin Allfather, King of Asgard. He held his magical spear steady to his right and you noted how he was seated on an angle, leaning towards his left with his cheek resting against the back of his hand. Oddly casual for Odin.

“Your Highness,” you greeted once you arrived at the foot of the platform and dropped elegantly into a kneel. 

“Welcome back, Sorceress,” he lifted his head with a nod as his arm relaxed down. Behind his beard you could see his lips were curved into what seemed to be a small smirk. He bounced the bottom of his spear once against the gilded floor of his throne and waved a hand dismissively to his guards. “Leave us.”

Rising from your knee, you watched the armour clad wardens march out of the hall promptly. “A private audience, your Majesty?” You asked once the room had cleared.

“Indeed,” he beckoned you forward as he shifted in his seat.

Following his command, you tread up the stairs cautiously, the sound of your metal coated boots clicking slowly over the silence. Your heart skipped when a familiar, playful gleam twinkled in his eye while he watched you fixedly, catching you off guard. 

No way. It couldn’t be…

Your footsteps increased in haste until you halted before him, gaze still locked onto his as you couldn’t help but tilt forward slightly. You placed your hands on the arms of his throne and spoke.

“Hello, Mischief.”

With a light chuckle and a quick shake of his head, the King lifted himself to stand close, towering over you. Your heart accelerated and your throat constricted, while your stomach turned and a tingle slipped up your back. A wash of light flashed from his nose and spread instantly over his face and body, revealing the face you thought you’d never see again.

His snowy beard and grey hair dissipated, unveiling his smirking lips and his lustrous raven locks. There was no longer a patch hiding his mischievous blue eyes, which were fixed on your own. “Well done.”

Your breath caught as you studied his features, feeling as though he would disappear if you blinked and it would be another cruel illusion or a dream, but this time, you could feel him. You could sense the warmth of his body and smell the leather of his clothing, mixed with his usual crisp, clean scent. You could almost taste his lips when his silky voice left them.

It really is him, it’s not just a dream. 

First came relief, then joy, followed by a wave of grief, until fury and adrenaline prickled through your veins. Unable to repel your rage, you brought a hand up to swat his face, but he caught your wrist instantly before you could make contact. His taunting grin only pressed at your urge to hit him and without hesitation, you reached for your staff; which he obstructed with his spear.

“You should know by now that not many people can surprise me, so why do you insist on trying?” Loki teased as you glowered at him with flames alight in your eyes.

“You truly are a slippery bastard,” you hissed and stepped back, brandishing your weapon.

“And here I thought you’d be happy to see me,” he sighed wryly, lowering his hands to his sides.

“I watched you die,” you cried out as you rushed forward, swinging your staff at him from the right.

“That, you did,” he deflected your attack, sending you backwards and swiping towards your legs.

You sprung up to dodge his blow and brought your staff down the middle, meeting with his and bringing it in a loop in an attempt to disarm him. “I’ve mourned you this whole time! Denied the comforts of any other man-”

“Look, I-” he was cut off when your staff met his chest and thrust him back against the golden throne.

“And what have you been doing, Your Highness? Lounging about your Palace in your frilly robes?” You sneered as you knocked Gungnir from his hand. Your frustration burned in your chest as you breathed. “Indulging in Asgardian wenches while I cried for you?”

“Darling, I’d do nothing of the sort,” his laugh was taunting. He stood as you twirled your weapon, holding your stance on the steps below while he flicked his wrists to draw his blades.

“Why didn’t you at least give me some indication-” you held your staff up to block an incoming strike of his knife. “That you were alive?”

“I had to maintain the illusion,” he brought his second blade towards your torso.

You turned your staff diagonally, swatting the second blade to the side. “That is the worst excuse I’ve ever heard, Loki.” 

“Do you plan on slaughtering me yourself this time, then?” He caught the end of your weapon and twisted upwards, using your firm grip on it to swivel your back to him.

“Yes, and I will bring you back from the depths of Hel, just to slaughter you again, if I must,” you spat, venom laced within your words as your back collided with his chest.

“Get on with it then,” he snickered with his blade held to your neck, the other arm taut around your waist. You could feel his hot breath trickle down your ear as he whispered into your hair just above. “You have grown stronger.”

Steadying your panting and chaotically rapid pulse, you angled your neck to glance up at him, eyes landing on his parted lips. Rolling onto the balls of your feet, you raised yourself to near his lips, where he responded by lowering his head towards yours. You took the opportunity to use the full strength of your body and knock him back onto the throne.

You slipped out of his arms when you felt his grip loosen as he landed and jabbed your staff towards his slumped form. “And you have grown foolish, my love.”

Loki remained still on the seat for a moment, until you felt a warmth behind you and his figure disappeared. Before you could react, the bottom of your weapon was raised into the air and turned against your body, thrusting down at you. 

“Hey, no tricks. I didn’t use my magic,” you struggled against the pressure of your staff, finding yourself pressed onto the surface of the staircase. 

“Then you are the fool, sweetheart,” he retorted, provoking you to kick his leg and bring him down with you.

His grasp remained solid on the staff while you wrestled against the floor, before he used his power to tear it back, dragging you along towards him. You heard it clank against the tiles as he tossed it down and shoved your arm against the stairs, his blade once again held above your throat. 

“Will you forgive me now that you are at my mercy?” The playful glint in his captivating eyes shone brighter as he hovered over you.

You released an exasperated sigh, laying your head back on the cool surface. After a short moment of composing your thoughts and breathing, you rolled your eyes, unable to resist his smug grin. 

“Look at you,” your fingers trailed into his long dark hair and nodded towards the golden throne. “You’ve won the crown you’ve desired for so long. A King.” 

The King accepted your words as a victory, removing his blade and replacing it with a warm hand around your neck. His breath lingered softly as his black locks tickled your cheek, then your lips met fiercely in a stormy kiss, moving together with a slow yet fervent motion. You could feel the intoxicating and tingling sensation of your magic weaving into his. He liberated your arm he’d held down, allowing you to coil it around his neck while he found your waist and you tugged each other closer. 

It was precisely what you both needed after the time you had spent apart. You felt the weight of your grief lift away, becoming replaced with relief and adoration. He was truly alive.

“Don’t you ever do that to me again.”

[rosesanthology]

Across time | Akaashi Keiji x F!reader [soulmate!AU]

for this one i tried a little bit of world building to put more context into some stuff as i suck at accurate and realistic historical aeras, this ended up being WAY longer than planned oof also YES i 100% took the well idea from Inuyasha👉🏽👈🏽

- Moeru Fukuro means blazing owl

- au where the reader finds themselves enamored far beyond the limits of alternate timeline and universes

[Tags] : @raevaioli @chenle @lcaita and @lceiji

- it was all because of a stupid dare

- it's a shame you agreed to do anything when more than 50$ were on the line (O.O)

- your friends from high school thought it seemed like SUCH  a good idea to dare you to spend 3 hours in the woods next to your house in exchange for 60$

- the 3 hours of course starting from midnight

- but you weren't one to back down from that kind of stuff

- no sir

- the only thing you had to do was to wait by the abandoned well surrounded by trees without anything to distract you (you trusted them with your phone anyway)

- tonight wasn't even that cold anyway

-so here you were, waiting for time to pass as you listened to the sounds around you

- you found it absolutly mesmerizing, how everything around you had its own identity through the sounds made

- you had always felt calmer in moments like these, by yourself at nighttime, just taking everything in

- you had been to this well many times before, the old lady who lived accross from your appartment told you that it was used as  a wishing well most of the time

- she spoke of how many people through the times had thrown coins into the unsettling darkness of the pit and wished for true love and stuff like that

- the other day, you had found her there and she told you about how that very same well helped her meet her soulmate

- you hardly believed her

- the wishing part ? Okay. It's a normal thing to throw coins into fountains and wells and pray for things. But soulmates ? That seemed like a reach

- so you felt pretty dumb for staring into the dark pit of most likely freezing water as intensely

- you also felt pretty dumb for making sure that you brought a coin with you on this outting

- okay maybe......the idea of finding your soulmate was not so repulsive.... (◡‿◡✿)

- you didn't hope it would work too hard but still.....just sayin that it would be nice

- so, you threw the coin, listening to its sound as it came in contact with the water at the bottom after a long fall and you started praying

- "i don't really know how this is supposed to be done but....if the stories are true can i please meet the love of my life ? If not possible i also accept checks and cash (▰˘◡˘▰)"

- you didn't really mean the money part

- but you know.....getting rich isn't that bad

- at that moment you felt smart for bringing a hoodie because ???? The wind was extremely strong all of a sudden like ?? Sheesh

- you were about to sit down and cuddle into your hoodie for warmth but then u SWORE U HEARD A VOICE COMING FROM THE WELL

- and you aint crazy but you're about dumb enough to lean your head above the opening to hear better

- i think you know where this is going....

- the wind's strength had you tumbling down the well in no time

- time seemed to slow down as you plummeted toward the surface of the water

- soon you came in contact with it, cold soaking your clothes and hurting all the way to your bones. You could see the moon thru the suprisingly clear water as well as the bubbles from your last reserve of air, all this caused you to pass out.

- in the capital of the kingdom MoeruFukuro, they were many things ; from kind townfolks, to golden rice paddies and from a gorgeous royal castle to roaming forest demons

- you heard me right

- the lands around were infested by demons and spirited who manifested at night, some benevolant and others not so much

- thankfully for the royal priest Tsukishima's magical talismans placed all around the town, the people could leave in peace, the malignant creatures knowing better than trying to overcome the spells

- the capital could pride itself all around the country for having ones of the most powerful and smart array of people there ever were in addition to being prosperous from the folks' trade businesses

- for example, in the royal palace, you could find as forementionned priest and mage; Tsukishima Kei, legend has it that he was blessed by Kaguya, the goddess of the moon herself in order to have such knowledge of spells

- there was also General Kuroo Tetsurou, who had his fair share of tales and admirers alike, the biggest one being the one in which he had saved a thousand men from a demon by sacrificing himself, earning its respect and protection in battle

- obviously there was the crowned prince, Bokuto Koutaro. Well he might seem a little air headed and childish at first sight but he takes his duties very seriously even if they consist in little things such as gathering the peoples' eventual complaints himself, some people going as far as saying that he is the closest thing to a god on earth

- and then, wherever Bokuto went, it would be near impossible to forget about his right arm and advisor, the wise and renowned astronomer Akaashi Keiji. If Tsukishima had been blessed by the moon goddess then many people believed that Akaashi was the one who tought Omoikane, god of wisdom and intelligence himself, everything he knew. He was everything people wished they were, calm, good looking, creative, reasonable and intelligent beyond mesure. No wonder he was the one Bokuto trusted the most by his side

- studying the sky also brought Akaashi much knowledge on seasons and the movements of stars and such, providing help to both the people and Tsukishima

- Akaashi did not live in the castle however, well technically yes but he did have a workshop of his own a bit farther in the territory, where he could dedicate himself to staring at the night sky he loved so very very much from his makeshift observatory/rooftop

- he also had a lovely well near his observation tower that Tsukishima had passive agressively insisted on cleansing for him (>.<)

- so there he was, in this particularly enchanting night

- something about that full moon, shining stars and clear sky just about almost got some tears out of him

- but he was interrupted when he heard a low growl from beneath his observation tower

- naturally he looked down to where it came from and saw a fire fox spirit inching suspiciously close to an unconscious girl on the ground near the well

- the demons avoided the talismans yes but that far from the heart of the city trickster spirits and ghouls could just about do as much chaos as they pleased

- rushing to get down, Akaashi took his bow and arrows ready to get rid of the spirit and make sure the girl, no matter how strange her clothes looked like, was safe

- it was fast work, his arrows reaped through the night air seemingly at lighting speed and quickly made the spirit disappear

- muttering a small banishing prayer he picked up the passed out girl and brought her on top of his observatory

- she was dry but she was still shivering from the cold

- "she must not be used to the cold" thought the young astronomer, taking off his haori to put on top of her frame and sitting down next to her, looking downwards at her now relaxed features

- he did not know why he brought her up there but right now it just felt right. So he went on with looking at the sky, resting his hands flat on the ground near his sides

- you were awake, enough to feel a warmth next to you but not enough to open your eyes yet

- you thought that you'd fallen asleep after making the wish and that your friends had carried you back to your room or something

- but it was to cold to be true

- you peaked slightly from between your lashes and were met with a GORGEOUS night sky

- usually in your city, the sky was too polluted to be able to see that many

- and the full moon seemed closer than usual, bewitching, enchanting, almost asking you to come to her, so in a way you did

- now fully awake, you outstretched your hand toward the celestial body, not really thinking in the moment

- "you're awake ! How are you feeling ?" said a silvery soft voice, almost similar to a whisper

- so similar you thought that you were still dreaming as it was the same one you've heard before imagining falling into the well

- your train of thought was quickly cut short by the feeling of warm hands around your own outstreched one

- oh this was definitly real

- you sat up im a swift movement, looking around you and only seeing trees and rice paddies, as well as the lights of a town in the distance

- you almost didn't hear the man's voice over your own rapidly beating heart

- almost

- "Everything's okay now, calm down" he said, probably noticing your panic and rubbing his thumb over your knuckles

- his words seemed to immediatly sink into your very soul at the second they came out of his mouth, and worst is that you thought that if it meant to be marked in such a way you would be glad to have your soul inked all over with just his words

- but you still didn't know him so you kept that thought to yourself

- "who are you and where am i ?" Your voice was so shaky and your mind so foggy that you weren't even sure if they ever made it out of your throat

- but Akaashi heard you loud and clearer than anything before, just touching your hand had seemed like such a common task but the needle like sensation that ran up his whole arm begged to differ, he regained his composure fast though

- "my name's Akaashi Keiji and you're in the kingdom of MoeruFukuro" he made sure to speak as softly as possible, never letting go of your hand, fearing that maybe, if he let go you would disappear back into the wind

- ".....my name's Y/N L/N....listen i don't think im supposed to be here- well more like...now"

- "what do you mean ?"

- and so you explained to him how you actually came from the 21st century in what you could only assume to be another timeline and universe, trying to sound as calm as possible

- because well, you weren't dumb, and castle as "cool and fantasy anime looking like that" were not so common

- Akaashi kept drinking in your voice, painfully aware of every movement of your face, every little speaking quirk and tones, never breaking contact

- he was fast in reassuring you on his own world, he spoke of his life, of his friends and of the castle, not leaving out the fact that demons and spirits were a common factor, carefully choosing his phrasing and explaining with the most concise words

- explaining so well that you felt as if you already knew all these things, deep in yourself

- and time passed

- you soon found yourself laying on you back, fingers still intertwined with the royal astronomer, talking about your lives, as if you were desperatly but as easily as breathing trying to make the other remember your existence, trying to get a part of your souls back

- the silence of the night made your voices reach the other in an almost pieircing melody, the deep blue and silver sky as your only witness of this moment

- "so you're an astronomer right.....why do you like the stars so much Keiji ?"

- oh man did he love hearing you say his name, it sounded like the rarest music he's ever heard coming from you

- "i guess it just comes easily to me....i've never felt lonely in the castle, my friends are supportive and strong even though i've never been particularly good with people....when i come here for reasons other than work and stare at the sky, it feels like im finally walking in my own feelings, finally able to search for something that i somehow always wanted..."

- he turned to your face and swore that he saw many more stars in your eyes than he has in his whole life and continued on

- " it feels- it felt like trying to find a part myself that had been fragmented and thrown into the universe....a part of myself that was very much more human than i thought"

- "oh" was all you could muster between that and the flood of feelings that was inside your heart

- you felt like you were running out of time.

- you felt like you had to make the most out of this precise instant.

- you suddenly jerked up, making Akaashi jump at the sudden move

- he sat up with you, facing you, unsure of what  that was all about

- " Keiji !" You said, full of determination despite the advanced hour of the night, and when he nodded and smiled, humming slightly as response you took it as your greenlight to continue

- " Let's find each other again ! Whether it be in this life or another ! We're bounded together now and im sure whichever gods brought me to you will make it happen again no matter what. So you have to promise me before it's too late....don't forget about me !"

- Akaashi's eyes bore into yours with as much intensity as yours and returning the smile you wore on your face

- he let go off your hand for the first time that night and you felt as if an invisible countdown just started somewhere

- he took of a teal and marine blue colored thread bracelet that he wore and put in on your wrist, it had a small crescent moon symbol made of nacre on it....how in character

- how....him

- "there. That way i won't ever forget you. I sure hope you don't forget about me either"

- the last thing your remembered was the gorgeous yet so undoubtfully sad smile of the astronomer before waking up, warm, in your own bed

- you looked around in a hurry and little did you know, you were back into your appartment's bedroom

- you figured it was just a dream

- and yet your heart was still beating against your ribcage and tears were stinging your eyes

- you looked at your phone to check the time since the sun had already went up and your eyes fell on the bracelet you were wearing on your wrist

- you wasted no time in DASHING out of your appartment straight to the old lady's, well too aware that what had happened last night was definitely not a dream

- as you rung the doorbell you were too busy trying to calm your heart that was still trying to beat out of your chest to hear an all too familiar voice from inside the appartment saying "i'll take this"

- the door opened and you almost fainted

- "hi ! Im Akaashi Keiji your new neighbor from next door.....have we met before ?"

[progeny-of-the-fury]

The Waltz Legacy | Part II

Log date: 4/4/18

OOC Note: The text in these logs are strictly for the reader’s enjoyment. Anyone using the knowledge displayed within this text without the participant’s knowledge risks the potential of blacklisting from future communication and roleplay. Please do not meta-game!

The moons following our initial trip to learning more on Killian’s mother offered us a folder in the mail. Within it, contained not only more information on the woman, but also a photograph of her. We also learned more of where she ended up going to work, and who she worked under: House Garnier. With this new information in our grasp, we made way for the First Dicasterial Observatorium of Aetherial and Astrological Phenomena for more clues.

Hestia De'bayle leads the two through the Shroud and the snow, eventually approaching the entrance to the small village. "Here we are..."

Killian De'bayle: "It's House Garnier, right? Do you think they still have people here?"

Hestia De'bayle: "House Garnier..." Hestia rose the paper to her face to squint at. "We will have to see, let us move forward."

Killian De'bayle takes Hestia's arm to allow her to take the lead. "Do you think we should try the observatory first?"

Hestia De'bayle: "I would think so, yes," she tugs him forward. Entering into the tall building, Hestia circled up the stairs, keeping Killian close to her side as they made their way into the Astrologian lair. "Ahh... I think this is it... excuse me?" She calls out.

An elderly man across the table pauses in his conversation to give Hestia and Killian a disdainful look. "Are you speaking to me?"

Hestia De'bayle: "Ah. Yes?" She clears her throat. "I am Baroness Hestia de Bayle of House de Bayle, vassal under Fortemps. I am here looking for information on a woman named Áine Waltz. She was last seen here some twenty-odd winters ago?"

"A baroness," the man says dubiously, his eyes falling to Hestia's ears with obvious disapproval. "We study the stars here, not people. Especially not twenty turns ago. The name isn't familiar. Was she a passerby, or a member here?"

Hestia De'bayle narrows her eyes toward the man, regaining some fierce composure. "She was sent here to work as request of House Durendaire."

"To work under whom? I know of no Waltz family here."

"Do we have the specifics, Killian?" Hestia murmurs, looking through the papers in her hands again.

Killian De'bayle: "Uh, House Garnier. Right? Lord Durendaire said...she was sent by someone to work here for House Garnier..."

Hestia De'bayle: "Ah, yes. Right. Might there be one under said House here?"

At this, the Elezen's face lights with some recognition. "Ah, Garnier. Yes, I recognize the name. A few members of the house still live with the Observatorium. North of here. If she worked under them, they would have your answers better than I."

Hestia De'bayle: "North of here. How far north? Out of the town I presume?"

The man looks somewhat annoyed by the question. "No, still within the town walls. Where else would they be if they still lived with the Observatorium? All the way out in Camp Dragonhead? No, no. They are here. Not far north at all."

Hestia De'bayle frowns, "they could have moved to Dragonhead, or even Monument Tower, though that is not north. Thank you for your time," she huffs, turning on her heel to drag Killian along yet again."

Killian De'bayle is tugged along with Hestia, the Elezen man scoffing softly before returning to the man to which he was speaking. "Now, where were we..."

Hestia De'bayle opens the door wide, the cold air practically bursting in, "is there a Garnier in here I might speak to?"

Killian De'bayle looks much more timid as Hestia does this, completely oblivious to the sudden, screeching halt of all discourse in the room. Heads turn over in their direction, one of the cooks scurrying to close the doors behind them.

Hestia De'bayle: "Well?" She calls out, stepping in further. "I am a Baroness under Fortemps, I am in need of a Garnier to speak to regarding a now deceased woman."

A tall Elezen woman, refined in her age of perhaps forty but no more than fifty, with long blonde hair braided back in an elegant pattern, rises to her feet. She regards the pair with a cool expression. "I am Lady Olivie Garnier, under House Durendaire. May I ask as to who is so brazen to barge in unannounced so late in the evening, demanding an audience with mine house?"

Hestia De'bayle: "Baroness Hestia de Bayle. I come to speak to you about a woman by the name of Áine Waltz. She once served under your family but has not since perished. Might you know of her?"

he woman's chilly eyes settle on Killian for a brief moment. "And your companion?" she asks, gaze flicking to the wyvern shortly thereafter. "Or companions, I should say."

Killian De'bayle sort of shuffles in place, looking a little embarrassed.

Hestia De'bayle: "My husband and..." she leers over toward Nogelle. "Mmn," she makes no other remark. "Killian de Bayle, my husband, was previously Waltz. One of her children."

Olivie shifts her attention back to Killian, but not before lingering on Nogelle for some moments. She approaches with grace in her step, burdened only with a heavy gown rather than a cold-weather coat thanks to the interior warmth. Stepping past Hestia, she reaches out to take Killian rather surprisingly by the chin, turning his head this way and that as if to examine him - much to his confusion. "Curious," she hums out cryptically.

Killian De'bayle: "Ah--uhh...?" Killian steps back a little, his chin caught in the Elezen's grip.

Hestia De'bayle offers the woman a fierce sort of gaze. Piercing. "Curious does not answer my inquiry," she turns. "I will take your response, however, as indication that you do know of her. To be frank, there is little more we need to know on her as a person, but rather what became of her. We search of a man she may have... gotten with, while here."

"No one here," Olivie replies, releasing Killian after her cursory examination. "I was unaware she had a child. You do look a bit like her..." she muses. One arm crosses over her front to take her opposite elbow, and her other hand lifts up to tug thoughtfully at her chin. "She must have found someone after she left. Curious woman, very particular about her friendships. She never allowed herself to become close to anyone; I never suspected she might find someone to bear a child for."

Killian De'bayle frowns faintly, rubbing his own chin. "That doesn't sound anything like what we heard about her in Ishgard..."

Hestia De'bayle: "He is not her first child," Hestia adds, "but. I will leave that alone. Where did she leave to?"

Olivie lofts her brows up in some surprise. "Well, regardless of what you may have heard or what came to pass prior to her arrival, such is how it was during her stay under mine house. She had interests elsewhere, however, and only stayed...hmm, perhaps five turns. Somewhere between five and ten. It was quite some time ago. There was grave movement in the stars near that time, you see. She left with a small expedition to Mor Dhona to study the lake there, where the stars foretold the movement of dragons."

Killian De'bayle: "Mor Dhona..." Killian murmurs with some distaste.

Hestia De'bayle: "Mor Dhona?" Hestia asked with some surprise. "I see. Then, we might find more answers there?"

Olivie purses her lips. "It is possible, but...not very likely. No one from that expedition was heard from after the battle. Not here, at least. Perhaps you might find someone there who would recognize her. She was rather recognizable."

Hestia De'bayle: "So I have seen..." Hestia reached within her coat to fetch the photo of the woman, showing it out toward the Elezen.

The woman steps forward again, leaning some to examine the picture. A gentle smile softens her sharp features. "Ahh, that is her. With the Durendaire bell at her throat. She always wore that necklace."

Hestia De'bayle noted the woman's expression, her own softening some as well. "I see. Perhaps then, that can help. I am sure having this photo will assist. Thank you, we are one step closer to potentially finding Killian's father."

"I wish you luck. The man certainly must have been special, to win her affections. Tell me, though. Lord de Bayle. Were you born there, in Mor Dhona? I thought she and the rest perished in the battle, yet you survive."

Hestia De'bayle: "Wait... in the battle? What... what battle?" Hestia asks in some curiosity.

Killian De'bayle: "Um...no, I was...I was born in Gridania. I guess she..." Killian trails off when Hestia speaks.

Olivie turns a questioning glance to Hestia. "Not familiar with Eorzean history? I suppose it would have been before your time. No matter. The Battle of Silvertear Skies, they call it. When Garlemald invaded Mor Dhona and was met with Midgardsormr, the progenitor of dragons, in resistance. The battle that defaced much of the area when Midgardsormr perished. Indeed, if you have ever visited, many of the crystalline formations are a result of the sudden burst and disruption of aether. Lake Silvertear was...something of an aetherial nexus, you see."

Hestia De'bayle: "Ah... r-right. The battle against Midgardsormr. I recall now... not by my own recollection of course, but readings... forgive me. I was off the mainland for nearly fifteen turns of my life," she clears her throat. "We went there on our pilgrimage. To Mor Dhona... the air is thick with aether," Hestia sighs, "I suppose we will need make our way there again."

"Yes...it was devastated as a result of the battle, and only further destroyed by the Calamity. It is barely hospitable - I will never understand how anyone ekes out a living there now. Two such chaotic events...well, I do wish you luck in finding someone who remembers her, but if such a person exists, they must be one of the most resilient people to ever live."

Olivie lowers her head with a soft frown. "I will see to it that some of our own are sent to investigate. When we heard no word back from the expedition, we assumed they had died. If Áine survived to journey to the Twelveswood, then perhaps others survived, as well."

Hestia De'bayle: "Mm. She... died travelling through the aetheryte apparently. That was when Killian was born."

Killian De'bayle lowers his head some. "She was very ill when she arrived in Gridania. She was too weak to carry to term, so I was taken in hopes that at least one of us might survive, as I understand it."

Hestia De'bayle raises a hand to rest to Killian's back.

Olivie's expression turns mildly sympathetic. "Not without complications, I see. Well, regardless of the circumstances, I cannot sleep well knowing that there is a chance and I have done nothing to take advantage of it. So I will send a team out to search for information, and let you know if I find something."

Hestia De'bayle: "That would be most appreciated my Lady. Thank you for your help. We are under Fortemps, so if you need find our address to mail, you will find it there."

"Certainly. Perhaps next time you decide to visit, you might send some warning first, and perhaps not risk snuffing out our fires with the winter cold in the meantime," Olivie says wryly.

Hestia De'bayle: "Forgive my eagerness," Hestia murmurs, "we... I am quite desperate to learn of his family's line. Specifically for... medical reasons. I will reign myself in the future. Remember my manners."

"I am certain that will allow you the opportunity to get much further with those less amicable than I," Olivie muses with a polite smile. "If there is nothing else...?"

Hestia De'bayle: "That should be all. Thank you again. I hope you enjoy the rest of your evening." Hestia turns to leave, making sure to open the door /just/ slightly.

Killian De'bayle offers a grateful smile to the woman before turning to follow Hestia out.

Hestia De'bayle: "We are another step closer to the answers we seek Killian. Do you wish to venture to Mor Dhona tonight? Or wait another sun?"

Killian De'bayle: "Um...I think I should wait until I've slept before going to Mor Dhona..."

Hestia De'bayle: "Mm. Alright, then we shall return south?"

Killian De'bayle: "Okay," Killian agrees. "Back home?"

Hestia De'bayle: "Back home," she smiles, reaching to take Killian's hand.

Killian De'bayle squeezes Hestia's hand, allowing her to guide him.

Hestia De'bayle turns, leading Killian back where they came.

And so our search took us to Mor Dhona.

[sciencespies]

Asteroid-hunting telescope is being urgently taken down to avoid 'catastrophic' collapse

https://sciencespies.com/space/asteroid-hunting-telescope-is-being-urgently-taken-down-to-avoid-catastrophic-collapse/

Asteroid-hunting telescope is being urgently taken down to avoid 'catastrophic' collapse

One of the world’s most iconic astronomical observatories has fallen apart beyond repair. Now it threatens to collapse entirely.

Following two unexpected cable breaks, engineers have determined that the Arecibo Observatory’s 1,000-foot (305-metre) radio telescope is so structurally unsound that any workers who try to fix it would risk their lives. So the National Science Foundation, which owns the Puerto Rico telescope, has decided to decommission it.

Now engineers are racing to figure out how to safely deconstruct one of the world’s largest radio telescopes before it collapses on itself. The structure is so unstable that engineers can’t even approach it to evaluate the risk and timing of such a collapse.

“Even attempts at stabilisation or testing the cables could result in accelerating the catastrophic failure,” Ralph Gaume, director of the NSF’s Division of Astronomical Sciences, said in a press conference Thursday morning.

Suspended radio-antenna and its support towers could collapse into the dish. (NAIC Arecibo Observatory/NSF; Business Insider)

‘It’s like losing someone important in your life’

In its 57-year lifetime, the Arecibo telescope has hunted for hazardous near-Earth asteroids, searched for signs of alien life, and discovered the first planet beyond our solar system. In 1974, Arecibo beamed out the most powerful broadcast Earth has ever sent to communicate with potential aliens.

In 2016, it detected the first repeating fast radio bursts – mysterious space signals that scientists now think come from dead stars.

But Arecibo’s woes began in August, shortly after Tropical Storm Isaias passed over the island. A 3-inch-thick auxiliary cable popped out of its socket on one of the telescope’s three towers and crashed into the reflector dish below. It tore a 100-foot (30.5-metre) gash in the panels.

Then in early November, just before repairs were set to begin in earnest, a 15,000-pound (16,800-kg) main cable from the same tower broke and crashed into the dish.

Engineers had thought the structure was still strong enough to avoid a second disaster – and this cable was carrying just 60 percent of its estimated load capacity – but the failure proved them wrong. They decided they could no longer trust any of the remaining cables.

Both failed cables had been supporting an enormous metal platform hanging over the dish. If another cable from the same tower were to fail, engineers found, the platform would fall with it.

“The entire 900-ton platform will come crashing down into the main disk, and it’s possible that the three main towers themselves, which are over 300 feet tall, will topple,” Gaume said.

Deconstructing the telescope means abandoning any chance of saving it, but it’s the course of action three engineering firms recommended.

“This decision is not an easy one for NSF to make. But safety of people is our number one priority,” Sean Jones, assistant director for the NSF’s Mathematical and Physical Sciences Directorate, said.

By moving quickly, the NSF hopes to salvage a set of buildings that lay directly below one of the telescope’s towers. That way, the Arecibo Observatory can stay open – but without its defining feature.

“When I learned of the news, I was totally devastated,” Abel Mendez, director of the Planetary Habitability Laboratory at the University of Puerto Rico at Arecibo, told Business Insider. He has been around the observatory since he was 10 years old and worked with it professionally for the last decade.

“It’s hard to take. It’s like losing someone important in your life. Yeah, 2020 – it’s not good,” he said.

The reflector dish was damaged when a support cable broke in August 2020. (Arecibo Observatory)

The US has lost its best asteroid hunter and alien seeker

The loss of Arecibo’s telescope is a major blow to humanity’s search for alien life, our ability to defend the planet from asteroids, and the entire field of radio astronomy.

Mendez said that although Arecibo doesn’t discover potentially dangerous space rocks, it’s instrumental in investigating them: The observatory can ping such objects with radar to decrypt their shape, rotation, surface features, and trajectory through space.

Without that data, it’s much harder to know if an asteroid is hurtling towards Earth.

The Arecibo Observatory plans to work with scientists who’d intended to use the telescope to find ways to transfer their research elsewhere, Gaume said. Other NSF facilities – the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Virginia and the Green Bank Observatory in West Virginia – could potentially take on some Arecibo science.

However, Mendez said that Green Bank is only 10 to 20 percent as sensitive to weak radio signals as Arecibo. So he thinks the telescope’s death effectively ends the US’s chance at a comprehensive project to search for radio waves from alien technology.

“The only place that we have to do something like that, that would be sensitive or more sensitive than Arecibo, is now FAST in China,” Mendez said, referring to the Five-hundred-metre Aperture Spherical radio Telescope in Guizhou province. “The United States lost all that capability because it doesn’t have Arecibo.”

Arecibo and FAST, Mendez said, were Earth’s “two big eyes” in radio astronomy.

“If you are monitoring a source of interest which is in the weak radio spectrum, you need two big radio telescopes: one pointing towards something during the day and the other through the nighttime,” he explained. “If you lose Arecibo, then you lose the ability to monitor – 24 hours a day – a faint source of radio signals.”

He added: “Now we just have one eye.”

‘We’re working against the clock’

It will likely take about five or six weeks to figure out how to safely deconstruct the Arecibo telescope. Engineers will assess their options from afar, with drones snapping aerial photos.

The engineers are also considering ways to buy extra time, such as potentially tilting the towers a few inches to reduce weight on the remaining cables.

“We’re working against the clock,” Gaume said.

The technical reports that spell the death of Arecibo can be found here.

If engineers can take apart the telescope before it destroys itself, the Arecibo Observatory will still be able to conduct some scientific research. Its LIDAR lasers can study Earth’s upper atmosphere and ionosphere. It also has a facility on the island of Culebra that collects data on cloud cover and precipitation.

Future researchers could also still analyse archived data from the telescope.

This article was originally published by Business Insider.

More from Business Insider:

#Space

[theonceandfuturekingdom]

Ailidh Llywarch | Royal Astronomer | Bridget Regan | Open

“I have loved the stars too fondly to be fearful of the night.”

Biography:

Ailidh was born to a young couple who lived in modest comfort at the outskirts of the kingdom, and for the first few years of her life had a loving but fairly unremarkable upbringing. Things changed radically when a fever swept through the town and her parents died within days of each other. The now orphaned Ailidh was packed up and sent off to the city of Camelot to live with her only remaining relative – an uncle, her mother’s brother, a scholar under the patronage of King Uther.

Her uncle was a kind man, but a little scatter-brained and completely absorbed by his work. Utterly at a loss when it came to what to do with the child he now found himself caring for her, he put her to work as his assistant. To both of their surprise, she loved it, especially learning about the stars and the constellations. She began to spend almost every night outside, studying the skies, and as she got older her research began to outstrip her uncle’s.

When Arthur came to the throne he reviewed all those that his father had been patronising, dismissing many charlatans and frauds. Ailidh’s work, however, caught his attention, especially when she began to explain her belief in its potential for improving their understanding of the world around them. He allowed her to continue her work, and when she continued to impress him named her Royal Astronomer and had a small observatory built for her in one of the castle towers.

There she spent most of her time, often eating and sleeping there to have more time to work. Although the Court knows there was a Royal Astronomer, many have never actually seen or spoken to her since the majority of her work is conducted at night and she spends most of her days writing up her findings and catching up on her sleep.

Or at least, that was her routine until the observatory was damaged in the Saxon attack on the castle. Ailidh herself barely escaped the wreckage, and was quite shaken by what had happened. Frightened at how vulnerable she had been, she went to Captain Eriann and asked him to teach her defend herself. While the observatory is being repaired and she’s taking lessons, she’s spending more time in the city during the day – something she’s still not quite used to, but she’s finding there are lot of things, and people, on the ground that are almost as interesting as the heavens. Almost.

Connections:

Eriann: Combat teacher

Morgant: Friend

Idelisa: Rival

[emilyzh2019-blog]

Best Things to Do In Venice, Italy

Venice, Italy

Venice feels like it shouldn’t exist. Beautiful floating palaces of stone surrounded by a network of canals. Here are some of the best things to do in Venice for your first visit!

Venice is one of the most popular Italian cities for tourists, even with all the other beautiful & historic places there are in Italy.

But there’s a good reason. The City of Water is celebrated because of its unusual circumstances, sitting on 100+ small islands connected by over 400 bridges.

There are basically no roads, transportation is accomplished via boats on a confusing network of canals. It’s truly unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before!

There are many quirky, unique, unusual, and secret spots to discover in Venice.

I traveled here with Anna for the famous Carnevale di Venezia in February, a crazy annual festival of costumes and masks. We had an awesome time!

Because most travelers visiting Italy stop by the city for a few days, I wanted to recommend some fun and unusual things to do in Venice during your trip.

Venice Highlights Map

How To Use This Map

Above you’ll find a map of highlights in Venice, Italy. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking a route or points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!

Best Things To Do In Venice In 2019

1. Explore Saint Mark’s Square

Piazza San Marco in Venice

St. Mark the Evangelist is Venice’s patron saint. Signs of this connection can be found throughout the city, with an excellent example being St. Mark’s Square.

Also called Piazza San Marco, it is Venice’s main public square, basically the social heart of the city. There are a bunch of famous landmarks here, like the Clock Tower, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doges’ Palace, and the Winged Lion of Venice.

St. Mark’s is also home to many public events that have been held here for centuries. You’ll find TONS of friendly pigeons, although keep in mind that feeding them has been banned.

Cafes line the North end, so it’s a nice place to sit with an Aperol spritz or hot chocolate and people watch. Visit around sunrise to enjoy it peacefully before the large tour groups show up.

USEFUL TIP: Cafe’s in St. Mark’s often have live music, but they tack a €6 EURO cover charge onto your bill automatically. Just be aware.

2. Libreria Acqua Alta Book Store

Venice’s Coolest Book Store!

Perhaps unsurprisingly, flooding is a frequent problem for a city built on water. So various Venetian institutions have come up with unique responses to the problem.

A cool book store called Libreria Acqua Alta placed its books and magazines in bathtubs, waterproof containers, and even a full-sized gondola! It makes for a very unique and very whimsical setting.

This Venice book store has become an Instagram hotspot, with quirky little “backdrops” for photos around the store. Keep an eye out for some adopted stray cats who roam the shelves too.

Normally I’d tell you to pick out a good book, find a quiet corner, and do a little reading. Unfortunately, an onslaught of Instagram “influencers” yelling at you to get out of their shot is more likely…

3. The Bridge Of Sighs

The Famous Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge Of Sighs is a unique enclosed bridge of white limestone spanning the Rio di Palazzo in Venice. There’s an interesting story behind the name.

It once led to a notorious Venetian prison, the beautiful view through its stone “bars” was a convict’s last sight of Venice before losing their freedom… and often their life. Hence the “sighs” as they passed.

These days tourists can walk through the bridge during a tour of Doges’ Palace, or more frequently, line up for photos outside with it in the background. You can also book a gondola ride that passes under it.

Locals often lie and tell tourists that it’s named after the “sigh” of couples sailing under it, falling in love due to the magic of Venice. The reality is a bit darker!

4. The Grand Canal (Canale Grande)

Take a Trip Down the Grand Canal

Venice was once the capital of a maritime empire, and a center of commerce and culture during Europe’s Renaissance period. The Grand Canal is the most important channel running through the city.

It’s also the largest and forms a recognizable “reverse S” through Venice when the city is viewed from above. Some of the most spectacular buildings in Venice line The Grand Canal!

Many of these buildings can only be accessed by boat. So you’ll find boats of all sorts heading up and down the canal in a fascinating form of organized chaos.

You’ll see plenty of traditional wooden gondolas, the large public Vaperetto water taxis, fancy private water taxis, small locally-owned motorboats, police boats, and my personal favorite, the garbage collection boats!

5. Ponte Di Rialto Bridge

Cross Over the Rialto Bridge

There are four large bridges that span the Grand Canal. The original of them all was Rialto Bridge, which started out as a pontoon bridge in the 12th century but has since been rebuilt into what you see today.

The current bridge was built in the late 16th century, at a time when critics claimed that it would soon fall into ruin. But more than four centuries later, the Rialto Bridge still stands in splendid defiance.

The Rialto is Venice’s most popular bridge, with a great view of the city from the top. It gets a bit crowded, especially in the middle of the day during the summer!

Shops line the center of the bridge, the perfect place to pick up a Venitian souvenir — like jewelry or some famous Murano glass.

6. Ride A Gondola In Venice

Anna & I Enjoying Our Gondola Ride!

Are the Venice gondola rides worth it? Well, it depends. Are you the type of person to visit Egypt and skip the pyramids? If so, go ahead and skip the gondola, too.

But if you’re genuinely curious about history and new travel experiences, suck it up and pay the €80 EURO price to rent one for 30 minutes.

One of the most iconic images of Venice is that of a traditional gondola being propelled by a professional gondolier. I will say, not all gondola rides are created equal. You could get a bored, unfriendly gondolier.

Or you could luck out with a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide (like we did), who also sings, as you float through the canals! It’s really just a part of the whole Venice experience.

USEFUL TIP: For a more thorough 2-hour guided tour of the canals, on a normal boat, check out this option: ➜ BOOK IT HERE

7. Gallerie Dell’Accademia

The riches that once flowed into Venice made it a leading center for the arts, and artists. Examples can be found at Gallerie Dell’Accademia, a museum that specializes in pre-19th-century Venetian art.

Suffice to say that the Venetian art scene had a profound impact on European art as a whole in more than one way, thus making the museum that much more of a must-see for art lovers everywhere.

Inside you’ll find artwork by renowned artists such as Bellini, Da Vinci, Titian, and Canaletto.

The old building itself is pretty cool, a former convent that was converted to a museum in the 1700’s. It sits right on the water’s edge of the Grand Canal.

8. Visit Doges’ Palace (Palazzo Ducale)

The Courtyard of Doges’ Palace

The Republic of Venice came into existence in the 8th century and continued to exist until the late 18th century when Napoleon embarked on his conquest.

During that period, the republic was presided over by The Doge, a chief magistrate elected for life by Venetian nobles. Think of him as a combination of Pope & President.

Nowadays, the iconic Palazzo Ducale (Doge Palace) that housed the Doge has become one of the most famous landmarks of Venice, and a popular museum.

The interior of Doges’ Palace is quite opulent, with some wonderful views of the city. To walk through the Bridge Of Sighs mentioned earlier, this is how you do it.

9. St. Mark’s Basilica

Beautiful St. Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica, located in St. Mark’s Square, is the most famous of Venice’s churches and the cathedral of the Patriarchate of Venice.

Style-wise, the church is a mix of influences, having been built in the 11th century before being embellished again and again over the course of centuries. Today it boasts gold-leaf mosaics and beautiful domed ceilings.

Make sure to visit the small basilica museum inside, as well as the outdoor terrace with excellent views of the public square below.

As a lavish and much-beloved symbol of Venetian history, it’s totally worth a stop. Visiting on your own is free, although keep in mind there are often long lines.

USEFUL TIP: To skip the line for a full guided tour of St. Marks Basilica as well as Doges’ Palace, check out this option: ➜ BOOK IT HERE

10. Go Up San Marco Campanile

One of Venice’s Popular Landmarks

St. Mark’s Campanile is one of the most recognizable landmarks in St. Mark’s Square, a massive 98 meter (323 ft) bell tower that looms over its surroundings.

Galileo himself used the tower as an observatory to study the skies and in 1609 he demonstrated his telescope to the Lords of the city.

There is an elevator that goes to the top providing you with an unforgettable view of one of the most magnificent parts of Venice, including the Venitian Lagoon and Santa Maria Della Salute.

The ride to the top costs €8 EURO, or €13 EURO to skip the line (buy tickets here). Because drones are banned over Venice, it’s one of the only ways to get a cool aerial and panoramic view of the city.

11. Take A Day Trip To Burano

The Colorful Island of Burano

Burano is one of the smaller islands that can be found around the Venetian Lagoon. It’s reached via a 40-minute water taxi from St. Mark’s Square.

This small fishing village is unique for its brightly painted homes of pink, blue, yellow, and green. It’s a kaleidoscope of color with its own network of canals too.

Burano is also a center for lace-making, though the traditional methods see very little use these days because of their complicated and time-consuming nature.

The main square is filled with bars and outdoor restaurants, make sure to order some fresh fish risotto for lunch! Burano is a nice half-day trip to get out of Venice and see something different.

USEFUL TIP: For a complete guided day tour of both the islands Burano and Murano, check out this option: ➜ BOOK IT HERE

12. Basilica Di Santa Maria Della Salute

Basilica di Santa Maria

In the 17th century, Venice suffered a particularly bad outbreak of the bubonic plague when 80,000 people died.

As thanks for its deliverance from the plague, Venetians built the Basilica Di Santa Maria Della Salute to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary who they believe saved them from much worse.

The result was a wonderful Baroque style structure which came complete with a beautiful dome that has become an iconic part of the Venetian skyline.

The basilica is positioned near the entrance to the Grand Canal. Entrance is free, and many people simply chill out on the church staircase. The Vaporetto water taxi has a stop right out front.

13. Climb San Giorgio Maggiore

San Giorgio Maggiore Island

San Giorgio Maggiore is one of the Venetian islands. Moreover, it is also the name of a Benedictine church that can be found upon said island.

Built in a Renaissance style out of shining white marble, one of San Giorgio Maggiore’s most stand-out features is the bell tower with an elevator to the top and excellent views of Venice.

If you only have time for one bell tower, I’d actually recommend this one over San Marco Campanile. Because this tower is on an island further away from the city center, you get a better view of Venice proper.

Entering the church is free, but if you want to go up the tower, it costs €3 EURO. San Giorgio Maggiore can be reached by public water taxi.

14. Check Out The Canareggio District

The Quiet Canareggio Neighborhood

Need a break from the crowds? Canareggio is the northernmost of Venice’s six historic districts, and where the last of Venice’s true residents call home, and the former Jewish Ghetto of Venice.

The other areas of Venice which line the Grand Canal are popular destinations for tourists, but the Canareggio neighborhood is residential in nature, featuring various cafes, shops, and a more local experience.

One of the biggest complaints about Venice is the crowds, but it’s totally possible to leave the busy areas behind and explore less-crowded parts, like Canareggio.

15. Eat A Traditional Tramezzino

The Traditional Sandwich of Venice!

Tramezzini are Italian sandwiches that use two pieces of soft white bread with their crusts removed.

Venetian Tramezzini are famous for being stuffed fuller than most of their counterparts, with the most traditional examples using either ham or tuna.

They are great as a snack, particularly for people who want something substantial. Probably the best place to grab a Tramezzino is Bar alla Toletta (Bar at the Toilet).

This tiny local cafe & Tramezzini shop in the Dorsoduro district is always packed, but the food is excellent and a perfect example of this traditional Venetian snack.

16. Get Lost In Venice’s Narrow Alleys

The Narrow Alleys of Venice

Space comes at a premium in Venice. As a result, there are a lot of places with VERY narrow alleys, which can be a fun way to explore one of the most romanticized cities on the planet.

One of my favorite things to do while we were in Venice was to just get lost in these narrow streets. Pick a direction and just start walking. See what hidden places you can find.

There are all kinds of little shops, public squares, and lesser-visited canals and bridges if you are willing to be adventurous and put down your phone or map.

Not that your smartphone will help much, GPS doesn’t work very well in these confusing, narrow alleyways. You’ll almost certainly get lost even if you weren’t planning to!

17. Buy A Venetian Carnival Mask

Even if you’re not visiting Venice during their annual Carnival in February, it’s still possible to pick up one of the famous Venetian Carnival masks!

Scholars speculate the masks were a way to shrug off the structure of class, enabling participants to enjoy a temporary measure of freedom.

The upper class and peasants would mingle together, the masks hiding their true identity. But they’d also allow people to engage in gambling, robbery, assassination, and other illicit activities.

You can easily pick up one of your own as a souvenir. There are cheap versions sold from street carts, or the more elaborate hand-made art pieces can be bought in specialized mask shops.

18. Scala Contarini Del Bovolo

Cool Spiral Staircase

View From the Top

If you’re looking for a cool hidden attraction in Venice, there’s a palazzo in San Marco with a spiral staircase called Scala Contarini Del Bovolo, as it resembles a snail shell.

This curved set of stairs is a perfect example of Renaissance art spreading through the city in the 15th century. It became associated with not just the palace but the Contarini family who lived there.

On the top floor, you can walk out onto the “Belvedere”, getting a wonderful view of Venice, including the domes and Campanile of San Marco. Entry fee is €7.00 EUR.

19. The Fight Club Bridge

There was a time when Venice saw frequent fist-fights between rival factions on its bridges, which were popular spectacles for Venetian crowds.

The fist-fights were not held in high regard by the Venetian authorities, but they were tolerated for a time because they were an improvement on the earlier practice of stick-fights.

The Ponte Dei Pugni (aka The Bridge of Fists) was the most popular place for these fist-fights. The surface bears four footprints rendered in white marble, supposedly where fighters would stand to start their matches.

Right next to the bridge there’s also a family-owned floating vegetable market, called “La Barca”, that was featured in the classic travel movie Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade.

20. Crypt Of San Zaccaria

The Flooded Crypt

San Zaccaria is a central Venetian church built using a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. However, the church tends to be best-known because of its flooded crypt.

Curiously, the water has enhanced the overall feel of the space, perfectly suitable as a resting place for some of Venice’s earliest Doges (religious and political leaders).

The stone columns and vaulted ceilings combined with the standing water make for a creepy tomb. Totally worth a quick visit while you’re in Venice!

21. Catch An Epic Venetian Sunset

Colorful Venice Sunset at San Marco Pier

Venice has some amazingly colorful sunsets. They are complemented by the city’s magnificent architecture built along all the waterways and canals. Not to mention the gondolas floating about.

Sunsets often boast deep pink, yellow, purple, and orange colors. Unfortunately this partly due to all the smog hovering over the city… but it’s great for photography!

One of the best places to view the sunset in Venice is along the ferry pier at San Marco. There are a few docks that jut out into the Grand Canal, where you can set up a tripod [MAP].

22. Rialto Market Shopping

No visit to Venice would be complete without visiting the Rialto Market, seeing as how one of the city’s chief claims to fame was as a commercial hub.

The Rialto Market’s canal-side location means that it has played an important part in the day-to-day lives of Venetians for a very long time.

You can find fruit, vegetables, and fresh fish in the food section, plus countless souvenirs in the tourist section. The market is open from 9am to 9pm, and is situated near the big white Rialto Bridge.

USEFUL TIP: If you’d like a local guide to help you navigate all the great food in Venice, maybe consider going on a food tour too! ➜ BOOK IT HERE

Squero di San Trovaso Boatyard

23. Watch A Gondola Being Made

Squero di San Trovaso is one of the last remaining Venetian gondola boat yards, where local craftsmen build and repair the €20,000 traditional boats.

While the boatyard isn’t generally open to tourists, you can watch them work from across the canal. If you’re lucky, they’ll be outside varnishing one of the boats.

Only about 10 new gondolas are built each year, made from eight different kinds of wood including mahogany, cherry, fir, walnut, oak, elm, larch and lime. The last of a dying artform!

24. Cool Off With Venetian Gelato

Eating Gelato from Suso

After a long day wandering through the city, I recommend stopping by the Suso Gelatoteca for a cold and refreshing cone of tasty Italian gelato.

One way to know if you’re getting authentic, Italian gelato is to check the colors. Are they bright and florescent? Skip it! Real gelato is much more subdued.

Another great spot for gelato in Venice is Gelato Di Natura in San Croce. Make sure to eat it fast before it melts all over your hand!

25. Teatro La Fenice

Beautiful Old Theater

Sometimes called Phoenix by English speakers, Teatro La Fenice is a beautiful old Venetian opera house.

It has been destroyed and rebuilt two separate times following different fires, hence the “phoenix” name.

The interior is the star of the show, designed in classic Italian fashion, with lots of gold and seating in closed boxes for an extra measure of privacy.

Just keep in mind that photos from inside aren’t allowed during concert/play rehearsals, which we didn’t realize on our visit. Make sure to ask at the door.

26. Grab A Drink At Hotel Danieli

Hotel Danieli’s Awesome Staircase

If you want to see how the other half do Venice, stop into the lavish 14-century palace of Hotel Danieli and grab an evening drink at their Bar Dandolo.

This 5-star hotel has hosted such notable people as Charles Dickens, Harrison Ford, and Peggy Guggenheim.

In the lobby, there’s also a beautiful grand staircase decorated in red and gold. The bar features antique furniture, Murano chandeliers, and even more gold.

The bar was featured in 3 different James Bond films: Casino Royale (2006), From Russia with Love (1963) and Moonraker (1979).

27. Basilica Of Saints John & Paul

The Basilica of Saints John & Paul

The Basilica of Saints John and Paul is a smaller basilica that can be found in Castello, and the public square around it is a popular place for families to hang out.

Curiously, it isn’t named for John the Baptist and Paul the Apostle. Instead, it is named for a more obscure pair of saints who are said to have been eunuchs belonging to the Emperor Constantine’s daughter Constantina.

Regardless, the Basilica of Saints John and Paul is a treasure trove of art and culture, as well as the place where funeral services for the Venetian Doges were held following the 15th century.

28. Ride The Vaporetto Water Taxi

The Cheapest Way To Travel Venice

By now you’ve already heard me mention the Vaporetto water taxi a few times. This is the cheapest and most convenient way to get around Venice.

It’s basically a floating public bus, that stops frequently at different docks around the city. It may not be quite as romantic as a wooden gondola or private boat, but it gets the job done.

Vaporettos usually run between 6am and 10pm, and you can buy a 24-hour ticket for €20 EUR, or 48-hours for €30. A single ticket costs €7.50.

You can also use them to reach some of the other islands around Venice, like Murano & Burano. If you’re traveling to Venice on a budget, this is the way to go!

29. Glass Making On Murano Island

Famous Murano Island Glass

Murano is another small island just outside Venice, reachable via water taxi. It’s become known around the world for its glass-making artisans.

You can stop into the Museo del Vetro – Museum of Glass to learn about the history of Murano glass and how its made, or even sign up for a glass blowing class and make some yourself!

If you are looking to bring home some souvenirs from your trip to Venice Italy, I highly recommend picking up some authentic Murano glass.

30. Attend Venice Carnival!

Crazy Costumes at Venice Carnival

Modeled after ancient Greek and Roman festivals, Venice Carnival is a holiday that allowed regular citizens to dress up in anonymous costumes, making fun of the aristocracy without fear.

But it eventually backfired, allowing criminals to get away with all kinds of crimes behind the masks, and Carnival was banned in 1797. The celebration & parties returned though during the 1960’s.

These days, Venice Carnival lasts for two weeks in February, with all kinds of parades, concerts, private parties, and people dressed up in elaborate costumes.

We had a ton of fun photographing all the different costumes and masks, as people pose for you at the most iconic spots around the city.

Best Time To Visit Venice

High season for Venice Italy is during the summer from June to August, when everyone is on summer break. It’s hot and very crowded! Try to avoid the summer if you can.

The best time to visit Venice is during the shoulder seasons, March – May and September – November. Still busy, but not as bad as summertime.

If you are looking to travel on a budget, visit Venice during the acqua alta, or “high water” months of October through January. This is when the city floods on a regular basis.

Venice Carnval is during February. 2020 Carnivale de Venezia dates are February 8th to February 25th.

Where To Stay In Venice

Normally I’d recommend staying at an Airbnb, but for Venice, a vacation rental investment explosion has forced locals to leave the city because they can no longer afford rent. Which is kinda shitty. Use a hotel instead!

Best Accommodation In Venice

BUDGET Generator Hostel

MID-RANGE Hotel Mezzo Pozzo

LUXURY Hotel Danieli

Transportation Around Venice

Most people get to Venice by flying into Venice’s Marco Polo Airport. From there, you can jump on the ATVO airport transfer bus to Piazzale Roma, the main bus terminal. Buses run every 20 minutes and cost €6 EUR. From the terminal, you can pick up a Vaporetto and start floating down the Grand Canal.

Vaporetto

The Venice public “water bus”. A single ticket costs €7.50 EUR. 24-hour unlimited ticket for €20 EUR. 48-hours for €30. 72-hours for €40. Timetables here.

Water Taxis

For a slightly cooler experience, you can book a motoscafi (water taxi). It’s basically a wooden speed boat that travels much faster than the public Vaporetti. But it’s more expensive.

For up to five people, the price is €110 to or from the airport. Or €82 from the train station to Plaza San Marco. So if you’re sharing with a group, it isn’t so bad.

Gondola

€80 for 30 minutes before 7pm, €100 after 7pm. The price is good for up to 6 people. This is more of a tourist attraction than a practical way to get around the city. I’d recommend trying it at least once though!

Budget Travel Tips For Venice Italy

Don’t try and see absolutely everything in Venice if don’t have much time. Pick a few things to do each day. The large crowds can be stressful.

Speaking of crowds, mentally prepare for them. Unless you’re visiting off-season, Venice is ALWAYS packed, like 60,000 – 80,000 people each day!

To avoid the huge influx of cruise ship passengers that descend upon Venice, check out this Cruise Ship Calendar to help plan your trip around them.

Packing Guide

Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Pick up a travel backpack, camera gear, and other useful travel accessories.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights on Skyscanner. This is my favorite search engine to find deals on airlines. Also make sure to read how I find the cheapest flights.

Rent A Car

Discover Car Hire is a great site for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

Book Accommodation

Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. Or rent apartments from locals on Airbnb. Read more about how I book cheap hotels online.

Protect Your Trip

Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of World Nomads for short-term trips. Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read more about why you should always carry travel insurance.

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READ MORE ITALY TRAVEL TIPS

I hope you enjoyed my guide on what to do in Venice! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next: Hiking Tre Cime Di Lavaredo Beautiful Lago Di Braies Biking Italy’s Apennines Mountains The Best Travel Backpacks Review

Any questions about things to do in Venice Italy? Do you have other suggestions? Drop me a message in the comments below!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

[bulmavegotaku]

Fic title: "Broken bones and Stolen Thrones"

Okay, so this one actually blew upmy brain. If I were to write this it would undoubtedly turn into a 300,000 wordepic that would eat my life for an entire year, at least. I’m not saying itcould never happen, but… let’s just see if I can explain it properly. It’s astrange combination of medieval, fantasy, and science fiction (possibly post-apocalypticdystopic future, IDK) that I’m not sure I can do justice in just a few hundredwords, but I’ll try.

*Cracks knuckles*

Okay, so imagine a world dividedinto clans. Humanity has been split in half, biological speaking.

Most are barbaric, full of men andwomen with superior strength, stamina, and healing. Warriors that live by thelaws of nature- survival of the fittest, kill or be killed, might makes rightkind of tribes that are constantly at war amongst themselves. They are hard tokill and tend to multiply like rabbits.

A few are filled with men and women of intellectand enlightenment that are far more technologically advanced and thrive in littlepockets of civilization that hold off the invading hordes by virtue of their powerfulweapons and ingenious defenses.  Theyhave force fields and strength draining slave collars and devastating energy weaponsthat the other tribes can’t compete with, not when they are armed with swordsand bows and clubs.

One side has strength and numbers,the other side has brains and ingenuity, and the world is locked in astalemate.

Focus on one of the technologicallyadvanced tribes- The Stark Clan, whose heraldry is a golden tower on a redbackground, and it’s Chief, Lord Anthony, who single-handedly invented thesuits of iron that allow his people to venture beyond their boundary inrelative safety, and his wife Virginia have two daughters Jane and Darcy, and eachyoung woman is brilliant in their own way.

Jane excels at mathematics andphysics and can often be found studying the stars above for a way for herpeople to escape the brutal existence that they face, trapped in their smalllittle corner of the world by the imperative to protect themselves and all theyown from the outside clans which wouldn’t hesitate to swarm and devour all theyhave built like a plague of locust were their guard to fall for one moment.

Darcy, who is a bit of an oddityamong her father’s people, has turned her back on science and invention,favoring politics and strategy over building more weapons. She dreams offinding a way to unite mankind in peace. She’s even managed to convince herfather to let her negotiate an unsteady peace treaty with a local clan, The HowlingCommandos with their encircled star and blade-like wings in silver and blue, inexchange for trading the surplus of their agricultural efforts for a kind ofoutsourced protection. Racial prejudice and tensions between the clans runsdeep, but Darcy braves the outside world as much as she can trying to buildbridges and mend fences with food and medicine, much to her family’s consternationand frustration.

She’s started building a reportwith a few of the barbarians, and is making progress with establishing trustwhen things start to fall apart.

Jane has discovered a phenomenonthat has everyone one edge - a possible threat from space that leaves herscrambling for data. She needs to set up an observatory up in the mountains,outside the protection of the boundary. Darcy talks some of her contacts intoacting as guard and guide, but when they are set upon by a different rival clan,The Æsir Valkyries, bronze hammer on red with a bolt of white lightningbackground, Jane is captured and taken as spoils to be a war bride for their smittenClan Prince, Thor.

Darcy barely manages to make ithome, and when she tells her parents about Jane’s capture, (their excursion mayor may not have been unauthorized and against Clan Law), Tony locks Darcy in herquarters, (for her own safety), and sets about rampaging through the localclans looking for his daughter.

He takes prisoners for interrogation,utilizing the slave collars, and even captures the Howling Commandos Captain,Steven. He’s had a few skirmishes with the Æsir, and knows where they set upcamp for the season, but he’s refusing to cooperate with the Lord Stark.

Darcy eventually convinces herfather to let her try talking to the man. Her approach is somewhat more successful, though the deal Steven offerssets Tony’s blood on fire and has him threatening to behead the Captain. He’ll only lead them to Jane if Darcy and her Clanhelp him rescue his shield brother Bucky from the Heads of Hydra Clan, red multi-headedbeast on black banner, a brutal and vicious clan that kidnaps and tortures thestrongest and fiercest young warriors from other clans until they submit andswear allegiance. They managed to get their hands on some tech from a raid onthe Mighty Shield Clan, black bird on grey circle, and have been unbeatableever since.

With or without her father’spermission, Darcy is determined to save her sister. Risking further treason,she accepts his deal and sneaks Steve away from her Clan. She’s not stupidenough to remove the collar that keeps his strength in check, but she’ll do herbest to arm her and her new ally against the threat they face.

There would be cameos by EVERYONEand their dog from Marvel, sub-plots and intrigues between clans, adventure,UST, epic battles, and daring rescues as Darcy tries to save Jane, (who may ormay not actually want saving), unite humanity against a greater threat fromOutside, and keep her heart, (and her loins), protected against the fiercepassion, loyalty, and reckless courage of the barbaric captain and his people.

She’ll probably fail that last one. ;)

[nasa]

A Journey of Eight Years

We’re taking time to highlight our progress and accomplishments over the past 8 years. Join our historical journey!

Obama Visit to NASA in 2010 

President Barack Obama visited our Kennedy Space Center in Florida to deliver remarks on the bold new course the administration is charting for America’s space program. During a speech at the center, President Obama said, “I believe we can send humans to orbit Mars and return them safely to Earth. And a landing on Mars will follow. And I expect to be around to see it.” R  

Commercial Crew

Our Commercial Crew and Cargo Program is investing financial and technical resources to stimulate efforts within the private sector to develop safe, reliable and cost-effective space transportation systems. This program has allowed us to continue to reach low-Earth orbit, even after the retirement of the Space Shuttle Program. In the coming years, we will once again launch U.S. astronauts from American soil to the International Space Station through this commercial partnership.  

Revamping KSC: Vehicle Assembly Building

Our Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at Kennedy Space Center served through the Apollo and Space Shuttle Programs, and is now undergoing renovations to accommodate future launch vehicles…like our Space Launch System (SLS) rocket that will carry astronauts to deep space destinations, like Mars. Already, shuttle-era work platforms have been removed from the VAB to make way for our advanced heavy-lift launch vehicle, SLS.  

Revamping KSC: Pad 39B

For the first time since our Apollo-era rockets and space shuttles lifted off on missions from Launch Complex 39 at our Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the launch pads is undergoing extensive upgrades to support our 21st century space launch complex. At launch pad B, workers are making upgrades to support our Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and a variety of other commercial launch vehicles. .

Commercial Resupply Program

Our commercial partnerships with companies like SpaceX and Orbital ATK are allowing us to find new ways to resupply the International Space Station. Orbital ATK’s Cygnus cargo spacecraft is shown being captured using the Station’s Canadarm2 robotic arm. Packed with more than 5,100 pounds of cargo and research equipment, the vehicle made Orbital ATK's fifth commercial resupply flight to the station in October 2016.  

Pluto Flyby

After a seven-year journey, our New Horizons spacecraft arrived at dwarf planet Pluto. It captured this high-resolution enhanced color view of the planet on July 14, 2015. The image combines blue, red and infrared images taken by the craft’s imaging camera. Pluto’s surface sports a remarkable range of subtle colors, enhanced in this view to a rainbow of pale blues, yellows, oranges, and deep reds. Many land forms have their own distinct colors, which tell a complex geological and climatological story.   

Juno at Jupiter

Juno’s 2011 launch brought it into orbit around Jupiter. This composite image depicts Jupiter’s cloud formations as seen through the eyes of Juno’s Microwave Radiometer (MWR) instrument as compared to the top layer, a Cassini Imaging Science Subsystem image of the planet. The MWR can see several hundred miles (kilometers) into Jupiter’s atmosphere with its largest antenna. The belts and bands visible on the surface are also visible in modified form in each layer below.  

Orion EFT-1

As we strived to make deep-space missions a reality, on Dec. 5, 2014, a Delta IV Heavy rocket lifted off from Cape Canaveral carrying our Orion spacecraft on an unpiloted flight test to Earth orbit. During the two-orbit, four-and-a-half hour mission, engineers evaluated the systems critical to crew safety, the launch abort system, the heat shield and the parachute system.  

 Building of SLS

Meet the Space Launch System, our latest rocket system and see how it stacks up (no pun intended) to earlier generations of launch vehicles. While we engaged commercial partners to help us reach low-Earth orbit, we also were able to focus on deep-space exploration. This resulted in the creation of SLS, the world’s most powerful rocket and the one that will carry humans to deep-space destinations, like Mars.  

Small Satellite Technology

Our latest generation of small satellite technology represents a new way of advancing scientific research and reducing costs. These small sats are part of a technology demonstration that were deployed from the International Space Station in December 2016.   

Technology Development Organization

In 2013, we created a standalone technology development organization at NASA. Why? This new organization was an outgrowth of President Obama’s recognition of the critical role that space technology and innovation will play in enabling both future space missions and bettering life on Earth. The President’s most recent budget request included $4 million per year for our Centennial Challenges prizes. This program seeks innovations from diverse and non-traditional sources and competitors are not supported by government funding. Awards are only made to successful teams when the challenges are met. Throughout this administration (2009 – 2016), more than $6.5 million has been awarded to winners. 

Spinoffs

Did you know that many technologies originally designed for space exploration are now being used by the general public? Yes, there’s space in your life! We have a long history of transferring technology to the private sector, things we like to call NASA Spinoffs. From enriched baby formula, to digital camera sensors…you may be surprised where this technology came from. 

 Space Station Extended to 2024

In 2014, the Obama Administration announced that the United States would support the extension of the International Space Station to at least 2024. This gave the station a decade to continue its already fruitful microgravity research mission. This offered scientists and engineers the time they need to ensure the future of exploration, scientific discoveries and economic development.  

Year in Space Mission

Former NASA astronaut Scott Kelly and Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko spent a year in space to help us understand the impacts of long-duration spaceflight on the human body. The studies performed throughout their stay will yield beneficial knowledge on the medical, psychological and biomedical challenges faced by astronauts that will one day travel to Mars. Scott Kelly was a particularly interesting candidate for the job, as he has a twin brother. While Scott spent a year on the International Space Station, his brother Mark spent the year on Earth. Comparing test results from both subjects will provide an even deeper understanding of the human body and how it reacts to the space environment.  

EPIC Earth Images

From one MILLION miles away, our EPIC camera on the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) satellite returned its first view of the entire sunlit side of Earth in 2015. Because of this spacecraft, you can now see a daily series of images of our home planet! These images are available 12 to 36 hours after they are acquired. 

James Webb Space Telescope

The James Webb Space Telescope represents a giant leap forward in our quest to understand the universe and our origins.  The successor to the Hubble Space Telescope, JWST is designed to examine every phase of cosmic history: from the first luminous glows after the Big Bang to the formation of galaxies, stars, and planets to the evolution of our own solar system. More: 

Green Aviation

Our commitment to advancing aeronautics has led to developments in today’s aviation that have made air travel safer than ever. In fact, every U.S. aircraft flying today and every U.S. air traffic control tower uses NASA-developed technology in some way. Streamlined aircraft bodies, quieter jet engines, techniques for preventing icing, drag-reducing winglets, lightweight composite structures, software tools to improve the flow of tens of thousands of aircraft through the sky, and so much more are an everyday part of flying thanks to our research that traces its origins back to the earliest days of aviation. Our green aviation technologies are dramatically reducing the environmental impact of aviation and improving its efficiency while maintaining safety in more crowded skies, and paving the way for revolutionary aircraft shapes and propulsion. 

X-Planes

History is about to repeat itself as the Quiet Supersonic Technology, or QueSST, concept  begins its design phase to become one of the newest generation of X-planes. Over the past seven decades, our nation’s best minds in aviation designed, built and flew a series of experimental airplanes to test the latest fanciful and practical ideas related to flight. Known as X-planes, we are again are preparing to put in the sky an array of new experimental aircraft, each intended to carry on the legacy of demonstrating advanced technologies that will push back the frontiers of aviation.  

Drones

Blazing the trail for safely integrating drones into the national airspace, we have been testing and researching uncrewed aircraft. The most recent “out of sight” tests are helping us solve the challenge of drones flying beyond the visual line of sight of their human operators without endangering other aircraft. 

Solar Dynamics Observatory

Our Solar Dynamics Observatory, which launched in 2010, observes the sun in unparalleled detail and is yet another mission designed to understand the space in which we live. In this image, the sun, our system’s only star seems to be sending us a message. A pair of giant filaments on the face of the sun form what appears to be an enormous arrow pointing to the right. If straightened out, each filament would be about as long as the sun’s diameter—1 million miles long. Such filaments are cooler clouds of solar material suspended above the sun's surface by powerful magnetic forces. Filaments can float for days without much change, though they can also erupt, releasing solar material in a shower that either rains back down or escapes out into space, becoming a moving cloud known as a coronal mass ejection, or CME.  

Curiosity Launch and Landing

There are selfies and there are selfies—from a world more than 33 million miles away. When the Curiosity Rover launched on Nov. 6, 2011, to begin a 10-month journey to the Red Planet, who knew it would be so photogenic. Not only has Curiosity sent back beauty shots of itself, its imagery has increased our knowledge of Mars manyfold. But it’s not just a camera; onboard are an array of scientific instruments designed to analyze the Red Planet’s soil, rocks and chemical composition. 

Astronaut Applications

On Dec. 14, 2015, we announced that astronaut applications were open on USAJOBS. The window for applications closed on Feb. 18 with a record turnout! We received more than 18,300 applications from excited individuals from around the country, all hoping to join the 2017 astronaut class. This surpassed the more than 6,100 received in 2012, and the previous record of 8,000 applicants in 1978.  

OSIRIS-REx

Asteroids are a part of our solar system and in our quest to learn more about their origins, we sent the OSIRIS-Rex, the Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer, to rendezvous with comet Bennu and return a sample of the comet to scientists here on Earth. Along the way, the mission will be multitasking during its two-year outbound cruise to search for elusive “Trojan” asteroids. Trojans are asteroids that are constant companions to planets in our solar system as they orbit the sun, remaining near a stable point 60 degrees in front of or behind the planet. 

 Habitable Zone Planets

In December 1995, the first exoplanet (a planet outside our solar system) was found. Since then, our Kepler mission has surveyed the Milky Way to verify 2,000+ exoplanets. On July 23, 2015, the Kepler mission confirmed the discovery of the first Earth-sized planet in the habitable zone. Not only that, but the planet orbits a sun very much like our own. 

Make sure to follow us on Tumblr for your regular dose of space: http://nasa.tumblr.com

[writingfuzzy]

Class category chap.19

I refuse to acknowledge Danielle as older then 8. Canon might say she is supposed to be 12-13 but visually for me she look not anything older then at the highest 10, and then it is a stretch.

Chapter 19

It was here, the first day on the count down. Day five since Danny was moved into Clockwork’s care, five day since he fell into a coma. And the first thing on Nocturnes list on things to do where to go over there.

His flight through the zone were for the most part uneventful aside form the short detoured to Walker’s prison to both give and get updates. Greeting and bidding good bye to some few that he meet before leaving again. Once at the tower the dream ghost did not bother to knock as the doors opened on their own as usual and closed after him as he passed.

Making his way down the halls he decides to go straight for the boy’s room. The master of time can find him there when he feels to do so, no reason to pretend that he don’t already know he’s here already. To his surprise thought so meet he with the other ghost in the hallway two corridors down from the child’s room.

The time master was coming out from a room with there were no light coming out from or any sound, the short look Nocturne got into the room before the time master closed the door were darkness companied by silent.

Putting his head slightly to the side he study his friend as he turns towards him. A raised brow became his answer. “I have seen you exiting that room quite a few times now, and that is only since the night before yesterday. Yet I don’t recall you even using that room before.”

The lift brow got the other as company. “You mean I can’t use the rooms in my own home as I please?”

“That is not what I meant,” Nocturne frowned. “But you knew that already. May I ask what have your interest with that room?”

“Does that matter to you?”

“Hmm, I would dare say that depends.” Now it is Nocturne who rose a brow, “If it is something in style of a hobby of yours or in line of your feeding, then no, I do not have any peculiar interest. But if it is something that is of a concern for the child,” the skeptical look melted away as a gentle smile took it place, “or for yourself then yes, it is of my concern if you would so let me. I consider you are friend after all.”

Silence stretched out between them and for a moment Nocturne started to believe that there would be no response to his offer. A low chuckle broke out from the shorter ghost where he hovered in the hall. The chuckle ebbed out as he shook his head.

“Than I guess it could matter for you but not in a way you or anyone could imagine. I’m currently working on something that will change a few more things in my tower but in the end if they go as I plan them to, then things will be easier in the long run.”

The dream ghost listened and got a little disappointed when the other then turned around and started down the hall. “What changes?”

A humming is his answer. “Clockwork.”

“In time.”

Nocturne reminded himself not to strangle the master of time as he settled for the vague promise the he would be told about what was going on, later. They were quiet as they entered the sleeping child’s room, Clockwork raising the lights some while Nocturne moved over to beside the bed.

Again like all the other times he started to fuss over the child, fluffing pillows, tugging the comforter, and petting both the child and the puppy who was liking his hand. All the while cooing and humming toneless melodies.

There were no response.

Not showing his worry or distress the dream ghost continued as he always did on his visit, speaking with his friend as the time ghost too fussed with the child, a soft touch with a little energy to chase away any nightmares that may be there deep under the feeling of nothing, quietly watching as Clockwork periodically did silent work in the room or for short moments left it.

All day went and the child slept, his puppy either sleeping beside him or nuzzling both him and the plush Nocturne gave him the first visit.

Nocturne did not want to leave that night but did so with the promise to be back early in the morning.

That night in the ghost zone were quiet as the report spread in the zone, no change in the child.

Next day started as a repeat of the one before, a short report to the warden, a few greetings and then off to the clock tower.

It is quiet in the tower as he enters and again so meets he Clockwork as he exits that dark silent room. “Going to tell me what’s in there?”

“In time, hopefully.”

That last word was told in a whisper and Nocturne is not all to sure that he were meant to hear it, so he restrained to comment as they both moved down the hall.

Nocturne move through the motion as he had done the day before with the child, fussing, tugging, petting, while humming or singing softly. All the while swallowing down his worry at the lack of response. It would be fine, everything would be fine. Danny had proven over and over again in the past how strong he could be. He would wake up. It is fine.

Clockwork left the room a little more then he had done the day before, Nocturne getting the a snack for Cujo at one point saw his friend yet again leaving the dark room. He did not pressure his friend about the room.

When evening settled in Nocturne did not want to leave, the child would wake up soon, he were certain. Nothing said it had to be in the day time and he would be damned if the child woke up alone after all that happen and been done to him.

“I’m not leaving.”

“Understood. There is a guest room two doors down from Daniel’s, you can stay there. Just remember to pay Walker a visit before night.”

Thankful that he got clear to stay the night Nocturne went over for a short while that night to the prison to give his report. Ignoring the worried glances and looks given his way both as he came and as he left. Everything would be fine once the child woke up.

As he enters the tower again he comes face to face with a small child. And for a moment he thought it to be Danny in human form being up and about. But no, on a second glance he could tell that while this child looked eerily similar to the sleeping one there are some stark differences. The first one being that this one clearly is a girl and secondly looks to be somewhere around maybe 7 or 8 year of age.

The small girl is starring up at him and Nocturne is not completely sure what is going on. Carefully as not to startle her he kneels down before her as he addresses her. “ Hello, child. Who might you be?”

She fidgets as she plays with the cuff of her hoodie, before hiding her hands in its pocket. “I’m Dani, with an I” she held up on finger on the ‘I’ before hiding her hand again. “Soo- who are you mister?”

“I’m Nocturne, the ghost of dreams. It’s nice to meet you Dani. You wouldn’t happen to know where the ghost who lives here currently is do you?”

“Oh, you mean minster in clock? He is over there.” She said as she pointed to the doorway leading down to the observatory. “He said he would be back soon and then we can go see my cousin.” She look sad at the mentioning of her relative but she bounced back as she smiled up at the tall star ghost. “Hey let’s go find ‘im.”

And taking the taller ghost’s hand in her own she tugged him after her as they went down the hallway and into the observatory where they indeed found the tower’s owner. Looking over a variation of clocks with moving images. The little girl bunched over to him, a tug at his cloak made him look down.

Upon seeing the small girl he smiled and bend down to pick her up. She soon nuzzled into his chest as she griped fist full of his cloak to keep balance.

Nocturne stood by the entrance as he watch this. Confused he glided over to his friend that seemed to just be done with his work, for the moment at least. The grin he got as the clock wearing ghost saw him spelled mischief and something content. The dream ghost is a bit unnerved by it, it can never be good when the one who controls time looks like that.

“Hello Nocturne. You visit to the warden went well I presume?”

“As if you need to ask.” The dream ghost glanced over to the small child in his friend’s hold. He wanted to ask about her, who she is and where she comes from. But most of all why she looks so much like Danny. As if sensing his thoughts the time ghost smiled gently as he introduced the small child.

“This here is Danielle, more known as Dani with an I,” he added at the protesting huff from the girl who got content at the correction before nuzzling back again. “Her life is quite unique as she have traveled for the most part of it. I found her as she was about to be a stowaway at a ship to England actually.” He patted her on the head at this and smiled. “She is alone and since few knew about her and no one were about to adopt her I decided she can be living here as a part of a family.”

The word surprised came to mind as Nocturne kept on staring at his friend as he started down the halls on his way to the other child in the tower. Suddenly the time ghost stop and look over his shoulder, he is smirking. “Oh, nd before I forget to mention it. She happens to also be Daniel’s cousin.”

“What?”

But Clockwork gave no answer as he kept on walking, humming a happy melody together with the child. Flustered Nocturne followed.

“No one have said a word that Danny has other relatives, at least no one his age, or younger. And what do you mean she have been on her own? Clockwork. Is this what you meant before about changes in your tower?”

“Some of them yes, half, there is one more change but that is not a guarantee if it will or will not happen. I hope it will.”  Once more did he end a comment in a whisper and this time Nocturne will comment on it, later.

They reached Danny’s room and upon entering it Dani jumped down from Clockwork’s hold and run over to her cousin’s side. She stood there for some time, just looking over the other. Before she carefully lay a hand on his shoulder.

“Hi cuz… That guy over there told me you aren’t feeling to well. He said some other things to that I don’t really know what he means and it all sounds like riddles. It’s kind of funny and annoying at the same time. And, and he said that you will live here now, and h-he said I can live here to. So we can be siblings now. B-but you will wake up first right? He said th-that you maybe won’t but that’s a lie because I k-know you and you don’t leave other like that. A-and I’m here now so you have to wake up now. O-okay?”

Dani tried to smile the whole time she spoke with her cousin/maybe brother but she started to cry and most of the things she said sounded garbled to near none understandable.

Seeing the distress of the smaller child Nocturne went over to her and her cousin and picked her up. At first she protested but settled down soon enough as he rocked her and hummed. So Clockwork’s family grew with one more member that night Nocturne thought for himself as he later lay the girl to rest in her own room right next to the boy’s. It had mixed theme of a night sky at the ceiling and a willow in the night covering the rest of the room.

As Nocturne was about to turn in for the night as well he saw Clockwork on his way towards the hallway where the dark room is. Thinking that now is as good a time as any to talk to the time master about any other changes he followed.

When he went down the hallway the door to the dark room stood open, taking this as a sort of invite he went inside. The door closed after him and it wasn’t long there after that the silence in the room was broken.

“AAAAAGRRRRAAAA.”

The scream was haunting as it sounded against the walls in the room, willed with anguish and sorrow. Startled he tries to find the source of this scream. It did not take long to find the only other person in the room.

Confusion ensured as the dream ghost could clearly see that it is not his friend who is screaming his out his innards. But there is no other in the room who could be doing it either. Unsure what else to do he moves over to Clockwork who looks back at him.

“I could use your assistance for this.”

That is when he saw the thermos and the source for the scream that took a small pause as is desperate for breath before starting up again.

“What is going on?” he had to be speaking in near yelling to be heard. “Who’s in there?”

“Someone who’s class is currently undergoing a change. Or his sub-class is, to be precis.”

“WHAT?”

“I need to take him out of the thermos but he would be trashing to badly for it to be safe. I need you to make him sleep as I release him.”

Sometimes he really hate how this time-y bastard can’t give useful information before hand. “One of these day’s I will have telling me in advance about things like these.” Yet he did not protest as he made himself ready.

Clockwork gave him a thankful smile. “Good luck with that.”

It became a rather long night for the two adult ghosts as they did their best in helping to sooth the hurting specter now stuck in a time and sleep mixed suspension bubble.

“Hi there, I’m Dani with an I. Who are you?”

The blue skinned specter with red eyes and white fire-y hair looked down on the small girl intrigued. “I’m Dark but mostly I’m called Dan. When did you show up pipsqueak?”

“Be nice Dan.”

Huffing the dark Phantom glanced at his new benefactor before looking back at the small girl. Who have shifted into her ghost form and was now truing to grip hold of tufts of his hair. Curious over the girls curiosity he simply let her do as she wish. Surprised as she unprovoked started to answer his question as is Clockwork had never interrupted.

“I was on my way to somewhere new when he over there with the purple tablecloth showed up. He said that Danny was sick and is going to live here now, then he asked if I wanted to stay here too. And so I’m here.” She is now using both her hands to try to ‘trap’ his flames by clapping them down on them. “Why are you here mister? Are you also going to stay?”

Dan is silent for a moment before speaking. “Yeah, I’m going to live here too. And I am given a chance, my first one.” He smiled even as he saw the confusion in the small child, who in the end latched on to the first part of his answer and smiled back.

“Hah, then that’s great. You can be like our big brother when Danny wakes up.”

Her smile is big and infectious as he smiles back, even if his smile is a bit more hesitant and wavy as if unused to friendly smiling. Nocturne is happy that everything seems to turning out for the better for this small family, even if he has concerns about Clockwork’s subtle comments that Danny might have a bit of difficulty in accepting Dan at first.

It’s fine as long as he wakes up it is fine.

The seventh day started of really good, they all four had breakfast together even if the oldest child, technically adult, tried to skip. Promptly being caught and hauled back to the table by one mister Nocturne and this under the quiet snickers of the oldest amongst them. Dan got placated some thought when the dream ghost lectured the time ghost as well when he tried to leave the table to early. For the most part so played Dan together with Dani, both periodically visiting the sleeping child. Or Dani did, Dan never went in farther then the doorway.

Nocturne and Clockwork spend a lot of the day inside the room with Danny, trying what they could to coax the boy into waking. Everything seemed fine, aside from the child still not showing signs of waking up, he at the very least seemed stable. By evening time Nocturne manage to convince the other two children to spend time together with him in Danny’s room as he would read them all fairy tales. Dan tried to deny that he enjoyed the story time as much as Dani did even when he clearly listened as closely as she did.

It was being a good day.

Then came night again and it is the seventh day. And Danny started to spasm as he choke on air.

Dani cried in fear and panic and Dan picked her up to move her away from Danny. Clockwork was there within a second as he and Nocturne tried to hold Danny down so he wouldn’t come to harm as they all called for him to wake up. He couldn’t hear them.

[mitsunari]

A Yuri!!! On Ice fantasy AU drabble I’ve started on. If it doesn’t make sense, that’s to be expected considering I can’t concentrate on a single tangent for more than five minutes and my writing style is.... mmmm... tedious? Redundant? Anyway this is just the beginning of it.

It’s got no title. Currently rated G for General Audiences. It’s Otabek Altin/Yuri Plisetsky centered, but this first part just has Otabek and Katsuki Yuuri as characters. Otabek is still Hero of Kazakhstan but for different reasons, as he’s a conduit for the forces of nature basically (kind of like The Avatar, but instead natural spirits use his body to channel their power more constructively). Yuuri is an astronomer who has an intense passion for space. Otabek and Yuuri have met in the past for reasons (just Yuuri’s professional life crossing paths with Otabek’s duties).

And... well... spoilers, lol, Yuri P shows up as a dragon. He just hasn’t shown up yet. All I really want to do is write Otabek the shaman bonding with a dragon but I also wanted setup and slow burn and development and also practice because writing is Hard and Sucks and Difficult for someone with my brain to figure out since it’s all on my own. Please, for the love of God, ask questions and tell me if you’re interested. I am an attention whore who loves talking about this AU. I just can’t write it as well as I’d like because tfw perfect self-expectations.

Without further ado.......

_________________________________________

The Russian truck rumbled up the hill, jostling Katsuki Yuuri in the seat and jangling the keys. Yuuri clutched the steering wheel for dear life. Leaving the observatory in the red truck hadn’t been too bad driving downhill, but uphill… different story.

There were only two streets out of Almaty that led into the Trans-Ili Alatau. The southernmost was the one that led to Yuuri’s workplace, the Tien Shan Astronomical Observatory. The second road went east, ultimately dead-ending in the protected national park. In the fall, hunters were allowed to hunt certain animals, but the deadline had ended back in November and Yuuri didn’t see any as he drove by. Snow and rocks crunched under the truck’s treaded tires.

At the first and only gasoline station on the road, Yuuri turned and drove past its two pumps, going off-road downhill this time. He followed the flat area between the drop toward the river and a rock face for a few kilometers. He was certain it was only possible his truck could pass through here because he was Otabek’s acquaintance. (Possibly friend, but Yuuri didn’t want to presume too much.) He was here because he needed Otabek’s help, his opinion, and maybe his powers to divine a problem. Heck, Yuuri did not even know the extent of the man’s abilities. In his opinion, Otabek was some kind of kami living in the Kazakh mountains.

Eventually, the towering rock wall leaned away and welcomed Yuuri into a wide open space covered in snow. His truck went up and down many hills, but once he was nearly level with the river bed, the land flattened out and Yuuri could see Otabek’s acreage. At least he hoped this was the place. His fence was wood and wire around the land. Yuuri stopped in front of the metal gate. After struggling to squeeze his fat belly past the steering wheel, he nearly tripped out of the cab. Overhead, a falcon screeched in laughter.

“Hehe…,” Yuuri laughed in embarrassment, rubbing the back of his head. He opened the gate, then quickly got back in the truck to drive on in.

Heaving a sigh, Yuuri let his head drop hard against the headrest. He felt nervous about seeing the hero of Kazakhstan again, mainly because he wondered how Otabek would take his news. In the observatory’s telescopes, the astronomers Phichit Chulanont and Katsuki Yuuri had seen something new: a star forming in the Plisetsky nebula! For science, Yuuri was giddy at every discovery. He’d come to the observatory from Japan with his fellow alumni Phichit to study space. Nebulae, satellites, suns… he adored it all.

But stars did not grow this quickly in any man’s lifetime.

At first, Yuuri compared it to other pictures taken from Hubble, ISS, and other observatories. In the last three months, he saw progressive brightening in the Plisetskys. With weeks of testing, Phichit and their other colleagues continued monitoring the nebula. Last night, the brightening star had become visible in the sky without a telescope. Immediately the next morning, Yuuri got into the truck to contact Otabek personally. Otabek didn’t carry a phone, and Yuuri didn’t have the luxury of sending messages through eagles.

Yuuri feared Otabek would tell him this was some bad omen. His stomach gurgled uneasily. “Oh, better get this over with,” Yuuri sighed.

He stopped the truck before he was ten meters from a small stone cottage, parking next to a 4x4. He slid out and looked around at the home. A black horse stood in a paddock with some goats. Smoke rose from the narrow chimney in the middle of the roof.

“Altin-san?” Yuuri called out. He strode up to the door, but Otabek opened it before he could knock.

The Kazakh shaman used to be shorter than Yuuri, but he saw now that Otabek had grown to his height. His black hair had grown out to his shoulders. Furs clothed his body for warmth. Yuuri felt heat radiate out of the doorway. He rubbed his arms through his coat sleeves.

“Katsuki Yuuri…,” Otabek rumbled. He nodded in greeting and bid Yuuri to come in with a gesture toward the center fire. Yuuri removed his boots by the doorway, dancing around Otabek closing the door behind him.

“Excuse me,” Yuuri mumbled.

“Tea?”

“Yes please.” Yuuri walked up a step into the cottage, picking a chair. Otabek busied pouring into a cup and handed it to him. Inhaling deeply, even though it fogged Yuuri’s glasses, he let it warm him.

“Did the terrain let you enter without problem?” Otabek asked.

“Mm?” Yuuri squeaked into the cup. His eyes widened behind his totally fogged-up glasses. Let me? Yuuri immediately thought of magic trees gobbling up his truck. “I… I mean I followed your directions. The only issue was snow,” he tried not to stutter.

Otabek let out a sigh. “That’s good. The roads downhill are dangerous.”

Oh he meant the elements, Yuuri lamely realized. “Oh… yes. No major problems,” he replied quickly.

While drinking the tea and enjoying the fire together, they went quiet which was acceptable to the both of them. Yuuri looked around to see new paintings and maps drying. The maps were familiar to him. The ones at work were still in Cyrillic, having not changed since the Soviets, and Otabek had been working on a map back when they’d first met too.

“How are those coming along?” Yuuri asked.

Otabek looked over him, then the maps Yuuri looked at. “Good.” He blinked as if he remembered something and walked over to his work table. He picked up one of the paper maps, handing it to Yuuri. “You may take this back with you,” he replied. “I finished it.”

“Oh! Thank you! Thank you so much.” Yuuri clutched the folded paper, beaming up at Otabek. His smile faltered moments later as he glanced guiltily at his messenger bag. Otabek scrutinized him with a side-cocked expression. Swallowing, Yuuri unzipped his bag and pulled out folders. “You’re undoubtedly wondering why I’m here…” He exchanged the folders with Otabek.

Otabek flipped open to the pictures. Yuuri carefully studied his face, watching almond eyes widen as he pored through the pictures. Otabek looked up expecting Yuuri to finish where he’d trailed off, and immediately Yuuri began stammered. “Um, well, I, we--uh I mean Phichit and I, do you remember him?-- well, uh, we found a new star!”

Both black-haired men went quiet in the cottage. Otabek picked up the pictures, saying nothing, just switching between the progressions. Yuuri held his breath, then let out a loud exhale when he saw Otabek’s lip quirk up at the corner.

“Y-you’re smiling? That means it’s a good thing, yes? We can announce it to the science world without bringing total wicked annihilation on us, yes?” Yuuri blurted out.

Otabek pushed all the papers together while giving Yuuri a strange squint. “Why is that the first thing to come to mind?” he asked softly.

Yuuri pushed his index fingers together sheepishly. “Well, ahhh, every time I see you, there’s always something going on, like the time we saw a comet and next thing we know, you’re coming across the mountain to tell us to guard against earthquakes, and I mean like, uh, well….” Not to mention the eclipse at Aralkum! He felt stupid blabbering in front of the much more stoic man. He could never read Otabek’s expressions, and Yuuri always defaulted to they think I’m a fucking idiot! every time he opened his mouth.

Squeezing his eyes shut, he clutched his hands out in front of his knees. Yuuri suddenly felt a hand touch his. Surprised, he dropped his cup of tea. The stoneware hit the floor with a THUNK on its solid base. Yuuri looked up with horrified eyes only to see Otabek reach down to pick it up and put it back in his hand. The tea hadn’t even sloshed out.

“Sorry. Didn’t mean to startle,” Otabek murmured, dismissing Yuuri’s dumbstruck expression. He leaned back to his own seat and flipped through the rest of the memo. “I am glad you thought to tell me, Mr. Katsuki--”

“Yuuri, p-please!”

“Right. Yuuri.” Otabek gestured to the pictures. “I can’t confirm or deny your fears. The spirits of nature do as they please.” A marvelled sigh slipped through his lips. “It is… a beautiful star.” Glancing over at Yuuri made the Japanese man straighten. “May I see it for myself?”

“It became visible to the naked eye last night.” Yuuri shifted in his seat. “You’d have to come to the observatory’s side of the mountains though. The ridge hides it from over here. Too tall.” He held up his hand and shook his head, and Otabek nodded in understanding.

“I’d ask for a ride back with you but the day has barely started. When’s a good time tonight?” he asked.

“Umm, 8 PM, I guess,” Yuuri said. “We’ve got a garage and oh, well, I mean you’ve been there before… you know…,” he trailed off.

Otabek laughed silently with sharp exhales out of his nose, and Yuuri reddened in embarrassment. “It’s been a few months but yes, I remember.” Closing the folders, he handed everything back to the astronomer. “Thank you.” He seemed to notice Yuuri’s expression because he added, “These are beautiful.”

Yuuri brightened in pride as fat fingers clutched the folders happily. For now, the worry of Otabek’s omen subsided, and he was thrilled by science and beauty again. Oh, beloved space! Hastily, he gulped down the rest of his tea and stood up, not intending to burden Otabek further as a guest. “Um, please excuse me!” He placed the folders carefully in his messenger bag and tucked Otabek’s new map in for safety. “I’ll see you tonight! We can talk more there.”

“Of course,” Otabek replied. He put his tea cup down and followed Yuuri to the door.

Yuuri smelled a strong smell of spruce all of a sudden. He looked over his shoulder at Otabek, smiling and nodding goodbye to him when the man tilted his head in question. After shoving on his boots, Yuuri pulled his winter hat further on his head, leaving Otabek’s house in a shuffle. Phichit would be happy to see Otabek, Yuuri thought; after all, the viral video of Otabek’s magic in the Aralkum--glowing like an LED display!--belonged to Phichit. It was all over Twitter, especially since Phichit was basically Verified and famous for running the TSAO official Instagram + Twitter. Was it science? Was it magic? The internet didn’t know.

[marymperezga]

30 Best Things To Do In Venice (Italy’s Beautiful Floating City)

Best Things to Do In Venice, Italy

Venice, Italy

Venice feels like it shouldn’t exist. Beautiful floating palaces of stone surrounded by a network of canals. Here are some of the best things to do in Venice for your first visit!

Venice is one of the most popular Italian cities for tourists, even with all the other beautiful & historic places there are in Italy.

But there’s a good reason. The City of Water is celebrated because of its unusual circumstances, sitting on 100+ small islands connected by over 400 bridges.

There are basically no roads, transportation is accomplished via boats on a confusing network of canals. It’s truly unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before!

There are many quirky, unique, unusual, and secret spots to discover in Venice.

I traveled here with Anna for the famous Carnevale di Venezia in February, a crazy annual festival of costumes and masks. We had an awesome time!

Because most travelers visiting Italy stop by the city for a few days, I wanted to recommend some fun and unusual things to do in Venice during your trip.

Venice Highlights Map

How To Use This Map

Above you’ll find a map of highlights in Venice, Italy. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking a route or points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!

Best Things To Do In Venice In 2019

1. Explore Saint Mark’s Square

Piazza San Marco in Venice

St. Mark the Evangelist is Venice’s patron saint. Signs of this connection can be found throughout the city, with an excellent example being St. Mark’s Square.

Also called Piazza San Marco, it is Venice’s main public square, basically the social heart of the city. There are a bunch of famous landmarks here, like the Clock Tower, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doges’ Palace, and the Winged Lion of Venice.

St. Mark’s is also home to many public events that have been held here for centuries. You’ll find TONS of friendly pigeons, although keep in mind that feeding them has been banned.

Cafes line the North end, so it’s a nice place to sit with an Aperol spritz or hot chocolate and people watch. Visit around sunrise to enjoy it peacefully before the large tour groups show up.

USEFUL TIP: Cafe’s in St. Mark’s often have live music, but they tack a €6 EURO cover charge onto your bill automatically. Just be aware.

2. Libreria Acqua Alta Book Store

Venice’s Coolest Book Store!

Perhaps unsurprisingly, flooding is a frequent problem for a city built on water. So various Venetian institutions have come up with unique responses to the problem.

A cool book store called Libreria Acqua Alta placed its books and magazines in bathtubs, waterproof containers, and even a full-sized gondola! It makes for a very unique and very whimsical setting.

This Venice book store has become an Instagram hotspot, with quirky little “backdrops” for photos around the store. Keep an eye out for some adopted stray cats who roam the shelves too.

Normally I’d tell you to pick out a good book, find a quiet corner, and do a little reading. Unfortunately, an onslaught of Instagram “influencers” yelling at you to get out of their shot is more likely…

3. The Bridge Of Sighs

The Famous Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge Of Sighs is a unique enclosed bridge of white limestone spanning the Rio di Palazzo in Venice. There’s an interesting story behind the name.

It once led to a notorious Venetian prison, the beautiful view through its stone “bars” was a convict’s last sight of Venice before losing their freedom… and often their life. Hence the “sighs” as they passed.

These days tourists can walk through the bridge during a tour of Doges’ Palace, or more frequently, line up for photos outside with it in the background. You can also book a gondola ride that passes under it.

Locals often lie and tell tourists that it’s named after the “sigh” of couples sailing under it, falling in love due to the magic of Venice. The reality is a bit darker!

4. The Grand Canal (Canale Grande)

Take a Trip Down the Grand Canal

Venice was once the capital of a maritime empire, and a center of commerce and culture during Europe’s Renaissance period. The Grand Canal is the most important channel running through the city.

It’s also the largest and forms a recognizable “reverse S” through Venice when the city is viewed from above. Some of the most spectacular buildings in Venice line The Grand Canal!

Many of these buildings can only be accessed by boat. So you’ll find boats of all sorts heading up and down the canal in a fascinating form of organized chaos.

You’ll see plenty of traditional wooden gondolas, the large public Vaperetto water taxis, fancy private water taxis, small locally-owned motorboats, police boats, and my personal favorite, the garbage collection boats!

5. Ponte Di Rialto Bridge

Cross Over the Rialto Bridge

There are four large bridges that span the Grand Canal. The original of them all was Rialto Bridge, which started out as a pontoon bridge in the 12th century but has since been rebuilt into what you see today.

The current bridge was built in the late 16th century, at a time when critics claimed that it would soon fall into ruin. But more than four centuries later, the Rialto Bridge still stands in splendid defiance.

The Rialto is Venice’s most popular bridge, with a great view of the city from the top. It gets a bit crowded, especially in the middle of the day during the summer!

Shops line the center of the bridge, the perfect place to pick up a Venitian souvenir — like jewelry or some famous Murano glass.

6. Ride A Gondola In Venice

Anna & I Enjoying Our Gondola Ride!

Are the Venice gondola rides worth it? Well, it depends. Are you the type of person to visit Egypt and skip the pyramids? If so, go ahead and skip the gondola, too.

But if you’re genuinely curious about history and new travel experiences, suck it up and pay the €80 EURO price to rent one for 30 minutes.

One of the most iconic images of Venice is that of a traditional gondola being propelled by a professional gondolier. I will say, not all gondola rides are created equal. You could get a bored, unfriendly gondolier.

Or you could luck out with a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide (like we did), who also sings, as you float through the canals! It’s really just a part of the whole Venice experience.

USEFUL TIP: For a more thorough 2-hour guided tour of the canals, on a normal boat, check out this option: ➜ BOOK IT HERE

7. Gallerie Dell’Accademia

The riches that once flowed into Venice made it a leading center for the arts, and artists. Examples can be found at Gallerie Dell’Accademia, a museum that specializes in pre-19th-century Venetian art.

Suffice to say that the Venetian art scene had a profound impact on European art as a whole in more than one way, thus making the museum that much more of a must-see for art lovers everywhere.

Inside you’ll find artwork by renowned artists such as Bellini, Da Vinci, Titian, and Canaletto.

The old building itself is pretty cool, a former convent that was converted to a museum in the 1700’s. It sits right on the water’s edge of the Grand Canal.

8. Visit Doges’ Palace (Palazzo Ducale)

The Courtyard of Doges’ Palace

The Republic of Venice came into existence in the 8th century and continued to exist until the late 18th century when Napoleon embarked on his conquest.

During that period, the republic was presided over by The Doge, a chief magistrate elected for life by Venetian nobles. Think of him as a combination of Pope & President.

Nowadays, the iconic Palazzo Ducale (Doge Palace) that housed the Doge has become one of the most famous landmarks of Venice, and a popular museum.

The interior of Doges’ Palace is quite opulent, with some wonderful views of the city. To walk through the Bridge Of Sighs mentioned earlier, this is how you do it.

9. St. Mark’s Basilica

Beautiful St. Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica, located in St. Mark’s Square, is the most famous of Venice’s churches and the cathedral of the Patriarchate of Venice.

Style-wise, the church is a mix of influences, having been built in the 11th century before being embellished again and again over the course of centuries. Today it boasts gold-leaf mosaics and beautiful domed ceilings.

Make sure to visit the small basilica museum inside, as well as the outdoor terrace with excellent views of the public square below.

As a lavish and much-beloved symbol of Venetian history, it’s totally worth a stop. Visiting on your own is free, although keep in mind there are often long lines.

USEFUL TIP: To skip the line for a full guided tour of St. Marks Basilica as well as Doges’ Palace, check out this option: ➜ BOOK IT HERE

10. Go Up San Marco Campanile

One of Venice’s Popular Landmarks

St. Mark’s Campanile is one of the most recognizable landmarks in St. Mark’s Square, a massive 98 meter (323 ft) bell tower that looms over its surroundings.

Galileo himself used the tower as an observatory to study the skies and in 1609 he demonstrated his telescope to the Lords of the city.

There is an elevator that goes to the top providing you with an unforgettable view of one of the most magnificent parts of Venice, including the Venitian Lagoon and Santa Maria Della Salute.

The ride to the top costs €8 EURO, or €13 EURO to skip the line (buy tickets here). Because drones are banned over Venice, it’s one of the only ways to get a cool aerial and panoramic view of the city.

11. Take A Day Trip To Burano

The Colorful Island of Burano

Burano is one of the smaller islands that can be found around the Venetian Lagoon. It’s reached via a 40-minute water taxi from St. Mark’s Square.

This small fishing village is unique for its brightly painted homes of pink, blue, yellow, and green. It’s a kaleidoscope of color with its own network of canals too.

Burano is also a center for lace-making, though the traditional methods see very little use these days because of their complicated and time-consuming nature.

The main square is filled with bars and outdoor restaurants, make sure to order some fresh fish risotto for lunch! Burano is a nice half-day trip to get out of Venice and see something different.

USEFUL TIP: For a complete guided day tour of both the islands Burano and Murano, check out this option: ➜ BOOK IT HERE

12. Basilica Di Santa Maria Della Salute

Basilica di Santa Maria

In the 17th century, Venice suffered a particularly bad outbreak of the bubonic plague when 80,000 people died.

As thanks for its deliverance from the plague, Venetians built the Basilica Di Santa Maria Della Salute to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary who they believe saved them from much worse.

The result was a wonderful Baroque style structure which came complete with a beautiful dome that has become an iconic part of the Venetian skyline.

The basilica is positioned near the entrance to the Grand Canal. Entrance is free, and many people simply chill out on the church staircase. The Vaporetto water taxi has a stop right out front.

13. Climb San Giorgio Maggiore

San Giorgio Maggiore Island

San Giorgio Maggiore is one of the Venetian islands. Moreover, it is also the name of a Benedictine church that can be found upon said island.

Built in a Renaissance style out of shining white marble, one of San Giorgio Maggiore’s most stand-out features is the bell tower with an elevator to the top and excellent views of Venice.

If you only have time for one bell tower, I’d actually recommend this one over San Marco Campanile. Because this tower is on an island further away from the city center, you get a better view of Venice proper.

Entering the church is free, but if you want to go up the tower, it costs €3 EURO. San Giorgio Maggiore can be reached by public water taxi.

14. Check Out The Canareggio District

The Quiet Canareggio Neighborhood

Need a break from the crowds? Canareggio is the northernmost of Venice’s six historic districts, and where the last of Venice’s true residents call home, and the former Jewish Ghetto of Venice.

The other areas of Venice which line the Grand Canal are popular destinations for tourists, but the Canareggio neighborhood is residential in nature, featuring various cafes, shops, and a more local experience.

One of the biggest complaints about Venice is the crowds, but it’s totally possible to leave the busy areas behind and explore less-crowded parts, like Canareggio.

15. Eat A Traditional Tramezzino

The Traditional Sandwich of Venice!

Tramezzini are Italian sandwiches that use two pieces of soft white bread with their crusts removed.

Venetian Tramezzini are famous for being stuffed fuller than most of their counterparts, with the most traditional examples using either ham or tuna.

They are great as a snack, particularly for people who want something substantial. Probably the best place to grab a Tramezzino is Bar alla Toletta (Bar at the Toilet).

This tiny local cafe & Tramezzini shop in the Dorsoduro district is always packed, but the food is excellent and a perfect example of this traditional Venetian snack.

16. Get Lost In Venice’s Narrow Alleys

The Narrow Alleys of Venice

Space comes at a premium in Venice. As a result, there are a lot of places with VERY narrow alleys, which can be a fun way to explore one of the most romanticized cities on the planet.

One of my favorite things to do while we were in Venice was to just get lost in these narrow streets. Pick a direction and just start walking. See what hidden places you can find.

There are all kinds of little shops, public squares, and lesser-visited canals and bridges if you are willing to be adventurous and put down your phone or map.

Not that your smartphone will help much, GPS doesn’t work very well in these confusing, narrow alleyways. You’ll almost certainly get lost even if you weren’t planning to!

17. Buy A Venetian Carnival Mask

Even if you’re not visiting Venice during their annual Carnival in February, it’s still possible to pick up one of the famous Venetian Carnival masks!

Scholars speculate the masks were a way to shrug off the structure of class, enabling participants to enjoy a temporary measure of freedom.

The upper class and peasants would mingle together, the masks hiding their true identity. But they’d also allow people to engage in gambling, robbery, assassination, and other illicit activities.

You can easily pick up one of your own as a souvenir. There are cheap versions sold from street carts, or the more elaborate hand-made art pieces can be bought in specialized mask shops.

18. Scala Contarini Del Bovolo

Cool Spiral Staircase

View From the Top

If you’re looking for a cool hidden attraction in Venice, there’s a palazzo in San Marco with a spiral staircase called Scala Contarini Del Bovolo, as it resembles a snail shell.

This curved set of stairs is a perfect example of Renaissance art spreading through the city in the 15th century. It became associated with not just the palace but the Contarini family who lived there.

On the top floor, you can walk out onto the “Belvedere”, getting a wonderful view of Venice, including the domes and Campanile of San Marco. Entry fee is €7.00 EUR.

19. The Fight Club Bridge

There was a time when Venice saw frequent fist-fights between rival factions on its bridges, which were popular spectacles for Venetian crowds.

The fist-fights were not held in high regard by the Venetian authorities, but they were tolerated for a time because they were an improvement on the earlier practice of stick-fights.

The Ponte Dei Pugni (aka The Bridge of Fists) was the most popular place for these fist-fights. The surface bears four footprints rendered in white marble, supposedly where fighters would stand to start their matches.

Right next to the bridge there’s also a family-owned floating vegetable market, called “La Barca”, that was featured in the classic travel movie Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade.

20. Crypt Of San Zaccaria

The Flooded Crypt

San Zaccaria is a central Venetian church built using a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. However, the church tends to be best-known because of its flooded crypt.

Curiously, the water has enhanced the overall feel of the space, perfectly suitable as a resting place for some of Venice’s earliest Doges (religious and political leaders).

The stone columns and vaulted ceilings combined with the standing water make for a creepy tomb. Totally worth a quick visit while you’re in Venice!

21. Catch An Epic Venetian Sunset

Colorful Venice Sunset at San Marco Pier

Venice has some amazingly colorful sunsets. They are complemented by the city’s magnificent architecture built along all the waterways and canals. Not to mention the gondolas floating about.

Sunsets often boast deep pink, yellow, purple, and orange colors. Unfortunately this partly due to all the smog hovering over the city… but it’s great for photography!

One of the best places to view the sunset in Venice is along the ferry pier at San Marco. There are a few docks that jut out into the Grand Canal, where you can set up a tripod [MAP].

22. Rialto Market Shopping

No visit to Venice would be complete without visiting the Rialto Market, seeing as how one of the city’s chief claims to fame was as a commercial hub.

The Rialto Market’s canal-side location means that it has played an important part in the day-to-day lives of Venetians for a very long time.

You can find fruit, vegetables, and fresh fish in the food section, plus countless souvenirs in the tourist section. The market is open from 9am to 9pm, and is situated near the big white Rialto Bridge.

USEFUL TIP: If you’d like a local guide to help you navigate all the great food in Venice, maybe consider going on a food tour too! ➜ BOOK IT HERE

Squero di San Trovaso Boatyard

23. Watch A Gondola Being Made

Squero di San Trovaso is one of the last remaining Venetian gondola boat yards, where local craftsmen build and repair the €20,000 traditional boats.

While the boatyard isn’t generally open to tourists, you can watch them work from across the canal. If you’re lucky, they’ll be outside varnishing one of the boats.

Only about 10 new gondolas are built each year, made from eight different kinds of wood including mahogany, cherry, fir, walnut, oak, elm, larch and lime. The last of a dying artform!

24. Cool Off With Venetian Gelato

Eating Gelato from Suso

After a long day wandering through the city, I recommend stopping by the Suso Gelatoteca for a cold and refreshing cone of tasty Italian gelato.

One way to know if you’re getting authentic, Italian gelato is to check the colors. Are they bright and florescent? Skip it! Real gelato is much more subdued.

Another great spot for gelato in Venice is Gelato Di Natura in San Croce. Make sure to eat it fast before it melts all over your hand!

25. Teatro La Fenice

Beautiful Old Theater

Sometimes called Phoenix by English speakers, Teatro La Fenice is a beautiful old Venetian opera house.

It has been destroyed and rebuilt two separate times following different fires, hence the “phoenix” name.

The interior is the star of the show, designed in classic Italian fashion, with lots of gold and seating in closed boxes for an extra measure of privacy.

Just keep in mind that photos from inside aren’t allowed during concert/play rehearsals, which we didn’t realize on our visit. Make sure to ask at the door.

26. Grab A Drink At Hotel Danieli

Hotel Danieli’s Awesome Staircase

If you want to see how the other half do Venice, stop into the lavish 14-century palace of Hotel Danieli and grab an evening drink at their Bar Dandolo.

This 5-star hotel has hosted such notable people as Charles Dickens, Harrison Ford, and Peggy Guggenheim.

In the lobby, there’s also a beautiful grand staircase decorated in red and gold. The bar features antique furniture, Murano chandeliers, and even more gold.

The bar was featured in 3 different James Bond films: Casino Royale (2006), From Russia with Love (1963) and Moonraker (1979).

27. Basilica Of Saints John & Paul

The Basilica of Saints John & Paul

The Basilica of Saints John and Paul is a smaller basilica that can be found in Castello, and the public square around it is a popular place for families to hang out.

Curiously, it isn’t named for John the Baptist and Paul the Apostle. Instead, it is named for a more obscure pair of saints who are said to have been eunuchs belonging to the Emperor Constantine’s daughter Constantina.

Regardless, the Basilica of Saints John and Paul is a treasure trove of art and culture, as well as the place where funeral services for the Venetian Doges were held following the 15th century.

28. Ride The Vaporetto Water Taxi

The Cheapest Way To Travel Venice

By now you’ve already heard me mention the Vaporetto water taxi a few times. This is the cheapest and most convenient way to get around Venice.

It’s basically a floating public bus, that stops frequently at different docks around the city. It may not be quite as romantic as a wooden gondola or private boat, but it gets the job done.

Vaporettos usually run between 6am and 10pm, and you can buy a 24-hour ticket for €20 EUR, or 48-hours for €30. A single ticket costs €7.50.

You can also use them to reach some of the other islands around Venice, like Murano & Burano. If you’re traveling to Venice on a budget, this is the way to go!

29. Glass Making On Murano Island

Famous Murano Island Glass

Murano is another small island just outside Venice, reachable via water taxi. It’s become known around the world for its glass-making artisans.

You can stop into the Museo del Vetro – Museum of Glass to learn about the history of Murano glass and how its made, or even sign up for a glass blowing class and make some yourself!

If you are looking to bring home some souvenirs from your trip to Venice Italy, I highly recommend picking up some authentic Murano glass.

30. Attend Venice Carnival!

Crazy Costumes at Venice Carnival

Modeled after ancient Greek and Roman festivals, Venice Carnival is a holiday that allowed regular citizens to dress up in anonymous costumes, making fun of the aristocracy without fear.

But it eventually backfired, allowing criminals to get away with all kinds of crimes behind the masks, and Carnival was banned in 1797. The celebration & parties returned though during the 1960’s.

These days, Venice Carnival lasts for two weeks in February, with all kinds of parades, concerts, private parties, and people dressed up in elaborate costumes.

We had a ton of fun photographing all the different costumes and masks, as people pose for you at the most iconic spots around the city.

Best Time To Visit Venice

2020 Carnivale de Venezia dates are February 8th to February 25th.

Where To Stay In Venice

Normally I’d recommend staying at an Airbnb, but for Venice, a vacation rental investment explosion has forced locals to leave the city because they can no longer afford rent. Which is kinda shitty. Use a hotel instead!

Best Accommodation In Venice

BUDGET Generator Hostel

MID-RANGE Hotel Mezzo Pozzo

LUXURY Hotel Danieli

Transportation Around Venice

Most people get to Venice by flying into Venice’s Marco Polo Airport. From there, you can jump on the ATVO airport transfer bus to Piazzale Roma, the main bus terminal. Buses run every 20 minutes and cost €6 EUR. From the terminal, you can pick up a Vaporetto and start floating down the Grand Canal.

Vaporetto

The Venice public “water bus”. A single ticket costs €7.50 EUR. 24-hour unlimited ticket for €20 EUR. 48-hours for €30. 72-hours for €40. Timetables here.

Water Taxis

For a slightly cooler experience, you can book a motoscafi (water taxi). It’s basically a wooden speed boat that travels much faster than the public Vaporetti. But it’s more expensive.

For up to five people, the price is €110 to or from the airport. Or €82 from the train station to Plaza San Marco. So if you’re sharing with a group, it isn’t so bad.

Gondola

€80 for 30 minutes before 7pm, €100 after 7pm. The price is good for up to 6 people. This is more of a tourist attraction than a practical way to get around the city. I’d recommend trying it at least once though!

Budget Travel Tips For Venice Italy

Don’t try and see absolutely everything in Venice if don’t have much time. Pick a few things to do each day. The large crowds can be stressful.

Speaking of crowds, mentally prepare for them. Unless you’re visiting off-season, Venice is ALWAYS packed, like 60,000 – 80,000 people each day!

To avoid the huge influx of cruise ship passengers that descend upon Venice, check out this Cruise Ship Calendar to help plan your trip around them.

Travel Planning Resources For Dublin

Packing Guide

Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Pick up a travel backpack, camera gear, and other useful travel accessories.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights on Skyscanner. This is my favorite search engine to find deals on airlines. Also make sure to read how I find the cheapest flights.

Rent A Car

Discover Car Hire is a great site for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

Book Accommodation

Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. Or rent apartments from locals on Airbnb. Read more about how I book cheap hotels online.

Protect Your Trip

Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of World Nomads for short-term trips. Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read more about why you should always carry travel insurance.

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READ MORE ITALY TRAVEL TIPS

I hope you enjoyed my guide on what to do in Venice! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next: Milan’s Bizzare Church Of Skulls How To Cook Italian Rissoto Biking Italy’s Apennines Mountains The Best Travel Backpacks Review

Any questions about things to do in Venice Italy? Do you have other suggestions? Drop me a message in the comments below!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

from Tips For Traveling https://expertvagabond.com/venice-italy-things-to-do/