#hillwalking report

[jimrichardsonng]

Scotland Fix of the Day: Last night a friend sent an urgent request that was right down my alley. His buddy is in Scotland right now, doing a looping trip around the far Northwest coast. Did I have any advice of things he should do? Well, since he was in Ullapool I thought he should go on up to Stan Pollaidh (Stac Polly) and have a go at the popular climbing peak. Not daunted by doubtful weather, he did it today in snow squalls – and had the time of his life. What a great report, filled with intrepid adventure and the serendipity of travel. It is spectacular territory, another realm from what we usually think of the "Highlands." Worth finding the wee one-track road to get here. By the way, this view is taken from atop Sgorr Tuath with the weathered red sandstone framing up the Stac. #scotland #highlands #hillwalking #epic_landscape #highlands #bestofscotland #hiddenscotland #thehighlandcollective #scotland_highlights #ig_scotland #visitscotland #scotlandgreatshots #scotlandmagazine #scottishhighlands #scotland_greatshots #igersscotland #unlimitedscotland #thescottishcollective #simplyscotland #moodyscotland — view on Instagram https://ift.tt/iNzwv5B

[sea-side-scribbles]

Solas wakes up in the strange new world of his own making and it terrifies him. Ridden with guilt, he joins the Inquisition and begins his lonely research in order to correct his mistake.

He doesn’t expect to find consolation in the presence of a human who wields ancient elven magic without knowing it. Who is way too gentle for an elgar’thanelan, but doesn’t know that either.

Solas, for his part, doesn’t know how to stay away.

Dorian wonders if the mysterious elf just enjoys playing with a Tevinter. He wouldn’t expect anything else.

_____________________

Chapter 1- 13 | Right after uthenera, Solas is found by a Dalish clan. This goes well until it doesn’t. (Basically my excuse for world building and hilarious misunderstandings.)

Chapter 14 | Solas joins the Inquisition.

Chapter 20 | Dorian appears in Haven.

Chapter 38

Approaching the war table the next morning, Solas heard the advisor's voices already from far away. Now with the Herald back at the front, there was some direction in their dispute. They didn't speak all at once any longer, since Ellana demanded them to hear each other out. However, it was a heated argument about a point Solas could very well guess. He was sure to bring closure to their most dire problem.

Nearing the table, Cassandra spotted him first. “Solas”, she addressed him in her strict manner. “You appear to have a sense for rifts. Are there any nearby?” Looking around, Solas found four other tense faces, waiting for his answer. “Nothing to report, Seeker. The veil is strong in this area.” “Good. Then we at least do not have to worry about demons along our way.” “That means time remains our greatest enemy.” Cullen made a step towards Ellana. “Herald, I implore you, my proposal leads to the closest settlement from here. We cannot go hillwalking for weeks with a camp full of injured, untrained pilgrims.” The spymaster answered instead: “Your loyalty to the templars is honourable, but even you should not want to get so close to them again.”

Another quarrel ensued, with Josephine trying to soothe everyone but failing and Ellana pinching the bridge of her nose. She didn't know this area herself, so she had to make a choice based on these shems' opinions. Sometimes she missed even Corypheus.

She remembered Solas when he walked into her direction and gave him an apologetic look. For ignoring him. For the noise. For...everything. “Is there something else to report, Solas?” “I meant to submit a proposal myself. There is a fortress in these mountains, located in the north from here. We should arrive there within a few days. Considering its past use, it should have old trade routes we can repurpose to transport our own supplies. If we are looking for a new hideout for the Inquisition rather than to be at the mercy of other owners, it would be the most practical option.” Ellana furrowed her brows, surprised by the sudden solution. “A fortress? How do you know this?” “It has once been a very busy place. In ancient times, our ancestors used to visit it. Later, Fereldans came to claim it. Lastly, it was owned by dwarves. Such activity leaves traces in the fade.” “...that you just accidentally happened to pick up?” “I was aware of the fortress already in Haven, but there was no need to report it. Now, I think we should use the opportunity.”

Not everyone agreed. “I grew up in these lands. If there was a fortress in the Frostback Mountains, I would know about it”, Cullen protested. “Well, it hasn't been in use since after the Third Blight. I assume you Fereldans forgot about it.” “So it's a ruin? Probably useless? If it even exists?” “It looked well enough-” “-in the fade.” Cullen let out a desperate snort. “Herald, please, we can't let our soldiers search for...a pile of ancient stones, because an apostate dreamed about it. We need real shelter and supplies. Even reinforcements. Healers. Quickly.” “Well, at first, to get me listen to you in the first place, you must stop calling me Herald.” Cullen wiped his brow. “Maker's breath...” “And Andraste's flaming tits!”, Ellana shouted. “How hard is it to say my name? I know elves called Otargeniman and Sulahnadahlen just so you know you're lucky!” The Knight Commander scowled at her, then remembered who he believed her to be. “Miss Lavellan...”, he tried to say calmly. “Our people are running out of strength. And patience. This dream fortress should be out of the question.” He gave Solas a scowl now.

Solas took it without a wince. “Since you are concerned about time, how long to you plan your people to wait for the negotiations with whoever you are trying to form an alliance with in Ferelden? Remember, this organisation is running short of allies.” “That's why I suggested Orlais”, Leliana butted in. Val Royeaux has taken notice of us. I'd say impudence wins.” “But not with a group of apostate rebels in tow! We already spoke about this!”, Cullen flared up. “I mean, impudence and furtiveness.” “Assassins is what you say”, Cassandra clarified. “No, there will be no need for such methods. We will prove ourselves trustworthy to our future allies with peaceful negotiations”, Josephine begged.

“Guys, guys!” Ellana waved her hands in the air to make them stop. “Now that you expressed your opinions in your delightful human way, how about this: all your suggestions include going further north at some point, because nobody likes to risk meeting the archdemon again. Yes, even yours, Cassandra. So, we will look for that fortress on the way, it will be the closest destination. Solas should help locating it.” He nodded at her contentedly. “If we don't come across it, or find it to be a pile of useless rubble, we move on from there.” “And to where, I wonder?”, Cassandra narrowed her eyes. Ellana sighed. “We have time until then to make that decision.” Cassandra rolled her eyes while Leliana seemed to already form a plan in her head. “At least we're moving on.” Cullen calmed himself down.

Solas looked at the silencing group, satisfied with the result, as Ellana approached him quietly. “So...this fortress....you think our ancestors lived there? Ancient elves?” He lit up at her question, as if he had been waiting for it. “Indeed, however, finding a trace of our culture in the fortress itself will be difficult, since there have been many alterations over the ages. It should look rather dwarven now, with sturdy walls and sharp edges. But nevertheless useful for our cause.” “Does that mean you saw our ancestors in the fade?” Her expression was full of doubt. “Shadows of them, I heard fragments of their memories, the ancient tongue. I saw golden ornaments on crystal walls and a library bursting with tomes. Sadly, I believe we will not find them in the waking world.” Ellana blinked, overwhelmed by what she heard. “Do you believe everything you see in the fade?” “I still have my sanity and reason, if that is what you mean.” “Looking for answers in dreams is a dangerous ordeal”, she said, amusing Solas with the attempt of lecturing him. “I'm...curious what we will find in this fortress, if it exists.” “I never said not to be careful. I could be full of bandits.” She snorted. “Pirates with daggers in their mouths, counting their gold...” “Elven pirates then? Flying with aravels over the mountains?” She chuckled at the image and Solas regretted she couldn't really picture it.

He left the discussion soon after, because there was someone else who needed his attention.

Dorian's heart skipped a beat when he realized who visited him. Again. As if it was the most normal thing in the world. Another inside joke they shared, save from Varric and Blackwall, who weren't there to spoil the moment.

He tried not to stare too much, at the elf's lean figure, his straight posture, the little strut he allowed himself despite insisting to be a modest hermit. The coat that, admittedly, looked as if a blind man had stitched it together with the oldest scraps of fabric within reach, was belted just tightly enough to emphasize a slender waist. His leggings accentuated his long legs, his thighs and...other parts Dorian didn't dare to think about. It hurt to admit it, but considering the resources this elf had on hand in the wilds, he...did his best.

“Good morning, Dorian. Did you sleep well?” Such a...common greeting, but feeling strange, directed at him. “Well enough, considering the circumstances...” Dorian just about stopped his complaint, because the elf hadn't been too fond of these so far. This time, Solas reacted with the most adorable look, tilting his head and eyeing him curiously. Then he offered him his hand. “You mind a more thoroughly analysis?” Dorian almost coughed, but turned it into clearing his throat. When he held out his hand, he noticed in shock that it shivered. The Tevene curse was on the tip of his tongue, but Solas didn't seem to notice. He curled his fingers around Dorian's and closed his eyes.

Then Dorian stared, shamelessly. At the sharp features that he had never expected to soften for him and the hand that began to glow slightly. Sensing the tickle that ran along his arm, through his body, he realized that healing had never felt like this. The sting of sharp needles was missing. The nauseating feeling of his bones and tissue being forced back into order, that would press against his tongue until he lost all his stomach contents. Well, he wasn't terribly hurt anymore, no need for such brute force. Still, he made a mental note to ask about it. It seemed that Solas had his magic under control again and what had brought them to lose their minds was now gentle and helpful. The glow faded as Solas opened his eyes.

“I feel...better now”, Dorian stated, giving Solas a surprised look. The elf only nodded as if he had done something trivial. “I wasted your energy yesterday”, he said quietly, full of regret. Looking up, he went on: “Where are Varric and Blackwall?” Dorian didn't like the change of topic at all. “They were in good hands, last I saw them. No, I don't mean to make any implications, they are swarmed by healers and admirers that seem to want them to either heal faster or get earlier into their grave. Not sure yet.” To Solas' startled expression, he added: “Don't worry, Varric is already writing the tale and Blackwall is yelling at soldiers. They're both tough.” Tougher than me, was the conclusion Dorian hadn't intended to make. Welcome back, taste of foot in mouth.

But the real conclusion Solas came to was that the Tevinter was left alone by those he saved. Talk spread, of course, about his noble deeds, but nobody except for the healers seemed to dare get close to him. Regret washed over him and he sat beside Dorian on his bed. Now unfortunately, his feelings created a lump in his throat and emptied his mind. Awkward silence was the outcome.

He didn't know that for Dorian, this silence didn't feel awkward. Of course, he wished he had something witty to say. But the simple fact that Solas was sitting next to him and expressed sympathy flattered him. He didn't even pick up on the easy tease. “How are you?”, Dorian suddenly came up with. Solas lifted his head, looking as puzzled as he should have been. “I imagine it must've been...hard for you....Having to say farewell to your friends. We didn't exactly plan to come back...And now healing us...I imagine nobody asks about how exhausted you are.” The elf regarded him, giving Dorian the impression that he said something unbelievably silly. Heat rose up to his cheeks while he recalled...it wasn't that stupid, right?

“You are right...”, the elf said surprisingly soft. “Alas, I am not the one who made the sacrifice. My well-being does not matter in this situation.” “It matters to me.” Now he really rose to award-winning levels of stupidity. The elf averted his gaze, possibly embarrassed. “...and to Blackwall...and Varric...and...Ellana...”, he went on, trying to salvage it. “I mean, we are your friends...” Solas was still looking away. Now, come on. Could a simple “How are you” do so much damage?

“Thank you”, Solas finally said, and it stung differently than a scolding. “...For reminding me...Sometimes I forget...” He couldn't say more. Dorian sat up, moved closer to the upset elf. “It's an odd place, this Inquisition...It seems all of Thedas is coming together for a greater cause. And borders and statuses become blurred. I didn't think it would be possible, but I begin to like these people, despite their lacking conception of hygiene and home comforts...” He saw Solas' ears twitch. Oh, how much he missed these. How much he liked these. Maker forbid if Solas ever got the hint. The elf's chuckle lifted a rock from his chest. The entire Frostback Mountains. And the violet eyes directed at him... Elven eyes were so very fascinating. Especially his.

“I feel the same”, Solas whispered. “The Inquisition surprises me every day.” “It's a place of wonders, indeed.” Dorian gave him a smirk. “May I ask again: how are you?” Confusion flashed over Solas' features. I...I am glad you are alive...” He huffed out a faint chuckle. “Do you accept this as an answer?”, he asked as if he was following an order. Nevertheless, Dorian's heart skipped another beat. Making a thoughtful face, he tapped his chin. “Huh...It's a short answer, lacking a certain self-analysis, but it's nonetheless appreciated.” Solas looked relieved. “That is...good, is it not?” “For now.” They smiled at each other, approvingly. It was a wonderful moment.

None of them noticed the Dalish elf that peeked through the tent flaps and pressed a hand against her mouth.

Notes:

Otargeniman: from Antiva Sulahnadahlen: song of the forest

[scotianostra]

Adam Watson, the Scottish biologist, ecologist and mountaineer was born on April 14th 1930 in Turriff, Aberdeenshire.

From an early age, Watson showed considerable academic prowess. He was Dux of Turriff Primary School and of Turriff Senior Secondary School in Latin, English, Higher Latin, English, French, Science, lower History and Mathematics.

His education continued at the University of Aberdeen in the 1950s, gaining a first class honours in zoology and also the department of natural history's MacGillivray Prize. He gained his PhD in 1956 for his thesis on the Annual Cycle of Rock Ptarmigan, and a second doctorate in 1967 for scientific papers on populations and behaviour of northern animals.

The scientist studied and wrote extensively about plants and animal life in the Cairngorms. RSPB Scotland described Dr Watson, who research included studies of various upland birds, as "arguably the most knowledgeable Scottish naturalist and ornithologist of the last century".

Dr Watson was a well-known figure in Scotland's climbing and hillwalking community. He climbed extensively in the Cairngorms and in Scotland's other mountain ranges. He also climbed and skied abroad, including in Norway, Lapland, Canada and Alaska.

A John Muir Trust Lifetime Achievement Award was among other honours given to Dr Watson. The man dubbed Mr Cairngorms also received the Fort William Mountain Festival's Scottish Award for Excellence in Mountain Culture.

Watson’s research centred on grouse, his magnum opus on the subject, co-written with Robert Moss called Grouse, was a runaway bestseller.

A dam, a natural communicator in speech or the written word also appeared extensively on TV and radio in Scotland, his first broadcast was back in 1948 – Dr Watson’s enthusiasm for the sciences was never less than infectious, and he described his work in simple terms without resorting either to jargon or dumbing down. What made him loved by editors was his ability to read standard situations from a different viewpoint.

Watson’s literary output from the age of 14 runs to an astonishing 475 items including 22 books, hundreds of scientific papers and reviews and 175 unpublished technical reports.

In 1971 he was called to represent the Crown as expert witness at the fatal accident enquiry following the Cairngorm disaster in which six schoolchildren died. His quiet evidence drew not only on law, but on science backed by practical experience of the very worst of mountain weather. He surprised the Forestry Commission when he successfully opposed a particular development not merely on the expected ecological argument, but by astute demolition of the business case.

Doctor Adam Watson died after a short illness on January 23rd 2019, aged 88.

There's a great article taken from his journal that you can read at the link here https://www.ibsc.org.uk/thirty-miles-on-ski-adam-watson-april-1951/#

[featurenews]

Hillwalker, 80, dies after fall on Skye mountain

Man pronounced dead at scene after fall at Coire a’ Bhasteir on Wednesday An “experienced” 80-year-old hillwalker has died after a fall on Skye. Police received a report of the man falling at Coire a’ Bhasteir at about 3.05pm on Wednesday. Emergency services including the Skye mountain rescue team were called out but the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Continue reading... https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2023/jul/29/hillwalker-80-dies-after-fall-on-skye-mountain?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=tumblr

[on-misty-mountains]

Glenshee

Before the snow sets in in the Scottish Highlands and the skiing season begins we decided to go for a walk up Carn Aosda (915m / 3002ft) and The Cairnwell (933m / 3061ft). Those two mountains are classified as ‘Munros’, which are any mountains in Scotland of at least 3000 ft in height. Since the Cairngorms, the Eastern part of the Scottish Highlands are more of a plateau, the ascent is much shorter compared to mountains in the Western Highlands, many of which start closer to sea level. But that is what makes for the difference in the landscape. The Western Highlands look tall and pointy, while the Cairngorms look round and flat and there are many ‘corries’, hollows which were shaped by glaciers thousand of years ago. These mountains are very old and were shaped and ground down by glaciers in the ice age. It’s almost as if the mountains are missing their peaks. It does make for much easier walking though. To get to these mountains however, we first had to drive up north through the mountains on a long, twisty road with some very scenic views:

We parked at the Glenshee Ski Centre and went up to Carn Aosda first. I wasn’t prepared for just how cold and windy it would be, although there was no sight of snow just yet. Despite it’s flat appearance, the way was short, sharp and steep. Luckily, I was taking frequent photo breaks:

Here is a closed look at one of the ‘corries’:

After about 45 minutes we were finally at the (rather flat) top.

The view was great, however. On the other side you could see The Cairnwell, the mountain we would go up next.

You get a good idea here just how flat and round the Cairngorms are:

You can see the road we drove up on continue further up North. It’s known as an ‘Old Military Road’, but might be an ancient route, which people would have taken to get to the North of Scotland by foot or horse. This road is called the A93 and eventually leads to Aberdeen. On the Western side of the Cairgorms is the A9, another ancient road, which leads all the way to Inverness.

On the way back down we spotted a few mountain hares. They were easy to spot because they had already changed into their winter coat when there was yet to be snow.

Due to the strong wind, the sky was changing rapidly and new clouds were being blown in all the time, but for the time being the sun was out and we had a brief period of rest while we were walking on the plateau between the two peaks.

Loch Vrotachan:

Looking back towards Carn Aosda on the left:

It’s amazing just how barren this landscape is and yet there is plenty of wildlife, which includes mountain hares, grouse and also reindeer, which we didn’t spot unfortunately.

Finally, we were getting closer to the Cairnwell.

During the snow these hills are used for skiing, but the ski lift chairs totally double as a cosy bench to sit on to rest your feet. The view is amazing either way.

On top of the Cairnwell we were met with a great view and the sun breaking through the clouds, sending its rays down.

While taking those pictures it was drizzling slightly, but because of the wind it felt like many tiny needles or icicles smashing into my face, so it was difficult to stay on this side of the mountain for long. I did try a few more times, just to observe a change in scenery within 10 minutes. The same valley quickly clouded over and it started to rain.

Just as soon as the shower came, it went away again and for most of the journey down we had sunshine. At about 3.30pm the sun started to set and threw a warm shade all across the hills.

A video with footage is up on my Youtube channel.

[tomtenadia]

A Little Braver - 17

So, as promised, part 17 is her.

Be prepared to submerge our bird boy with hugs, he will need them.

I promise the chapter will end in fluff and in a good note. The angst is only for the beginning. I need to douse it a bit since from ch 19 onwards the angst gremlin will be back with a vengeance.

I hope you will love it.

A big hug to all the people who commented, reblogged or loved this fic. Thanks to all of you.

A week had gone by and Aelin and Rowan had taken the official decision to try and go back and both deal with the mess of their lives. 

The week had been perfect. Rowan had taken her hillwalking everyday and slowly she had started to feel like herself again. His presence had helped immensely. In a very short time he had become her rock. Full recovery was still a long way ahead but she felt better and with him at her side she had no more panic attacks or nightmares. 

She felt sad at the idea of leaving the cottage in the mountains but they had promised to go back for some special occasion.

*

It was morning and Rowan was getting ready to go back to work. They had set a date for the inquiry on his student’s death and that would be the day.

For once Aelin was the one worried one. She could not forget his reaction to the movie or the night he came back drunk after Fuzzy’s death. She knew he had put up a wall but hoped he would at least let her in. 

“What are you going to do?” He asked her while adjusting his tie.

“I have a meeting with Dorian and the counsellor and then I will pop in at the station and say hi to the squad and apologise.”

“Good.” His tone was detached and she moved a step to him and hugged his waist from behind “are you okay?”

He sighed “nervous. This will mean revive the entire accident over and over again.”

“Do you want me to come with you?”

He shook his head and kissed her “thanks for the offer but I will be fine. My squadron will be there and you have an important meeting as well.”

“Ok,” she wanted to believe him, but could not ignore his cold detached tone and Aelin had learned that it was his coping mechanism. He was not okay.

-

Rowan arrived at the airforce HQ and was met by Lorcan.

“Sir,” he stood to attention.

“At ease captain,” Rowan stood down from attention and placed his hands behind his back in a at rest pose “I am sorry it’s so quick. I knew you were coming back yesterday and I did manage to hold on until today.”

“Thank you, sir.”

“Are you sure you are ready?” And for once Rowan heard concern in his CO’s voice “this is going to be brutal.”

“I know.”

“I am on the board too and we have Captain Walker from the 24th squadron and Captain Matthews from the 31st and two engineers. They have all copies of the inquiry sent to the board.”

“Who is the president?”

“Marshal Clark.” Said Lorcan in a preoccupied tone.

“Fuck. The man hates me with a vengeance.”

Rowan sighed again and sat on the bench just outside of the room used for the meeting.

His squad arrived a moment later and they patted each other’s back in support.

“We are all here.” Gavriel told him taking a seat at his side.

“Thanks everyone.”

One of the assistants appeared on the door and announced the board was ready to convene. Rowan quickly texted Aelin and switched off his mobile.

The marshal, being the president, was in the centre of the seating area. Rowan went to greet the other two captains with whom he got along nicely and had known for a long time. Then he went to the marshal and saluted as expected “at ease captain.”

Rowan went to his assigned seat and flipped through the folder in front of him. It contained all the documents they needed. His report of the accident, the reports from the engineering team and other supporting evidence.

Marshal Clark called everyone to attention and declared the board in session. He then proceeded to explain to the members the accident that had happened.

One of the engineers who had performed checks after the aircraft had been recovered was asked to present his findings “after the analysis of the recovered aircraft and after having studied the dynamics of the accident we have found out that the main cause for the engine failure was a disruption in the airflow in the port intake causing it to stall with enough yaw rate to induce a flat spin. Cadet Williamson, according to the records of the accident, flew in the jet wash of one of his classmate’s aircrafts. That caused the airflow disruption. The stall was unrecoverable.” explained the engineer reading from his report “with regard to the canopy, we have found a fault in some model of jets used by the students where the charges did not operate correctly, causing the canopy to separate incorrectly. All those planes are grounded and now being checked.”

“Thank you.” Said the marshal, then his gaze turned to Rowan “Captain Whitethorn, stand please.”

Rowan did so.

“Could you please re tell the board the events that lead to the death of the cadet?”

Rowan took a deep breath and retold step by step what happened. It was still vivid in his mind that it would take ages before he could forget it.

“Did you tell the cadet to eject?”

“I did, sir.”

“Why?” Asked the marshal with inquisitive tone.

“He had lost control of the aircraft. From the black box retrieved from his jet he had pulled 9g after he started spiralling. From my position I could see that he was about to pass out. Ejecting the seat had been the safest option. Little did I know that the canopy would fail.”

The two other captains nodded in agreement, knowing full well that they would have suggested the same thing.

“Would the cadet have survived if he had more high G training?”

“Sir,” Rowan almost growled at his superior “his jet was under 9g for almost ten seconds before crashing in the water. Not even an experienced and highly trained pilot can sustain or survive that.” He breathed again “and you know better than me that centrifuge training can be done only with some weekly limits due to its dangers.”

“Had the cadets received basic procedures on how to properly eject and when?”

“Yes, sir. It’s one of the first things they are taught. They are shown how to properly deploy their parachute and how to blow the canopy. Training is also done in different conditions to simulate possible combat scenery.”

“Training was not the issue here,” said Lorcan going in Rowan’s support “Captain Whitethorn is one of our most experienced instructors and hundreds of students have survived his crushing training and are still alive today because of what he has taught them.”

“The post mortem also backed the cause of death in the crash of the body against the canopy.” Added captain Matthews.

“What kind of training were you doing that day?” The marshal continued, ignoring the protests.

“We were going through some basic dogfight routines. The cadets were only five months out of the academy so we were just covering the basics as per fighter school curriculum.” Answered Rowan who felt lost all of a sudden.

“Would the manoeuvre you had practiced put the boy in a position to be in another jet’s wake? Didn’t you teach them how to stay away from the jet wash of another aircraft during a dogfight?” The marshal had an agenda, that was very clear to Rowan. He was trying to blame this on him.

Captain Walker stood angrily “why are we attacking captain Whitethorn? The problem was that the engine stalled due to the jet wash from another aircraft. An experienced fighter might have been able to find a way out of such deadly spiral, the gods know I have found myself in that situation and got out of it by pure damn luck. Not a cadet five months out of the academy. It’s our job to teach them such manoeuvres but only after they have mastered the basics.” He sat down again nodding at Rowan.

“A good instructor would have taught his students how to fly in close formation and to avoid the wake of a team mate. A captain should know what such manoeuvre could cause.” Continued the marshal who had taken the fight to Rowan.

Lorcan stood angrily “That is enough.” He shouted.

“I would suggest you to sit down, Air commodore.”

“Not when you accuse my best instructor of being the cause of the death of a student.”

“It is my job as president of this board to try and figure out what happened.”

“I told two of my students they were too close. I advised another one not to drop below hard deck. I care about the safety of my students.” Rowan almost growled at the marshal “also, I stand by my decision to order cadet Williamson to eject. Had the canopy worked he’d be alive now.”

The marshal nodded and with a bored expression he then went back to the engineering team and they discussed the canopy issue.

Rowan let them talk and his brain disconnected completely and tried to ignore the pain from what had just transpired.

He sat in silence listening to the rest of the board discuss in the background. 

The marshal eventually called the board to attention “Following the evidence provided by the engineering team and the testimony of captain Whitethorn I declare that the death of cadet Williamson was caused by the port engine stall due to airflow disruption in the intake. The commission also noted that the flat spin in which the cadet went in was not recoverable. Captain Whitethorn is cleared of any faults.” Rowan noticed the disappointment on the man’s face for the fact the had been cleared of any faults.

The marshal then turned to Lorcan “Commodore, I expect you to keep the students grounded until the training jets have been fixed.”

“Yes, sir.”

“The board is dismissed.” Clark stood and walked out.

The other two captain went to Rowan “I had no idea the bastard would try to blame you for this.”captain Matthews added with fury.

“I would have told my students to eject as well. It was the only option.” Added captain Walker.

But Rowan was not listening. It hurt too much, knowing that someone had tried to blame the death of his student on him. That the marshal had to question all of his choices and possibly his training methods.

Lorcan and his squadron were at his side as soon as the room was clear.

“The arsehole has some guts.” Commented Fenrys but Gavriel elbowed him.

Rowan stood in a daze and left the room ignoring the voices of his team calling him.

*

Aelin’s meeting with Dorian and the counsellor had gone better than she expected. Thanks to Rowan she had been able to open up and talk to them about what happened and how she had been before her escape and what had prompted her to flee. She admitted to them her fears.

She felt much better but she had confessed that she did not feel ready to go back in action. She felt okay about going back to the station and work from the office but was not ready yet to be in a fire. She was still too scared for that and Dorian and the counsellor accepted her admission.

So they had agreed for a transition period. Aelin was told as well to attend weekly sessions with the counsellor to track her progress and her mental health recovery. She would be on desk duty for a while and after that, Dorian was willing to send her back out but just at his side in a fire emergency allowing her again to be close to the fire scene and if that went well they could work on a plan on sending her back in. 

She had agreed with the final decision and had left the room with a smile and a light heart. She stopped in the corridor to check her phone but no news from Rowan. The meeting should be over by now. She hoped he was okay.

Happily she drove back to her squad and everyone was eager to catch up with her. Then Aedion stopped in front of her “never again,” he told her and Aelin went for a hug. He remained stiff for a moment, then his arms enveloped her in a bear hug “looks like your captain fixed you up nicely.”

“Hey, I would recover from anything if I had such man looking after me.” Said Ansel and everyone laughed.

“He has been nice to me.” But all she could think was his face from that morning.

 *

Rowan had been walking without a direction for a while now. He felt as if he had lost his rudder, he had spent the last twelve years of his life working for people who had been ready to blame on him the death of a student. He looked at his uniform and for the first time since he had worn it he felt no pride in it. He had been so tempted to resign his wings on the spot. No matter that he had been cleared, it stung so much, even if it had been the opinion of one man.

It had been too much. He knew the marshal was never a fan of his. The first student he had lost had been his son. But at the time as well the board had declared it had not been his fault. It had been the pilot’s mistake. The marshal never forgave him. Seeing him again at a board for a student’s death he had probably tried to punish him for what happened to his son.

In the distance he spotted a pub and decided that a drink might help. He got in and sat at the counter and ordered a whisky, but once the drink was in front of him he could not drink it. In his current state he would spiral down again to the same level of self destruction of many years before when he lost the marshal’s son and he could not do that again. He could not put Aelin through that pain.

So he did the only sensible thing. He called her.

Aelin was in the common room with the squad and they were having fun and the guys were telling her about some of the calls they had and then they were teasing Luca and his upcoming exam.

She was about to tell them to stop picking on him when her phone went off. It was Rowan and her heart stopped. 

She quickly left the room and went outside, sitting on the bumper of one of the engines “hey,”

“Hi,” his voice was low and flat and she feared for him.

“What’s wrong.”

Silence.

“Ro, are you okay?”

“No.”

Shit. She stood and started pacing “where are you?”

“At a pub.”

“Which one.”

He told her the name.

“I am coming. Just stay there.” And closed the conversation and almost laughed at the irony of the situation. A week before she had been at the receiving end of such conversation.

She ran back to the squad “guys, I need to go. Rowan. It’s not good. I just have to go…”

She didn’t even wait for an answer. She just rushed back to her car and drove to him. He did not sound drunk so maybe it was not all lost.

She arrived at pub not long after and stormed in. Rowan was sitting at the counter staring at a glass of whisky in front of him.

“Ro.” She walked to him and his green eyes fell on her. There was pain in them, so much pain.

“You are not drunk,” she told him.

“He ordered the whisky two hours ago and had been staring at it ever since.” Said the bartender.

“Hey,” she caressed his head and he closed his eyes at the touch “what happened?”

He shook his head “not here.” He stood and Aelin followed then came back and chugged down the abandoned whisky and went after him.

He was walking away and she ran after him “wait, you have long legs, damn you.” He extended an arm behind him and Aelin grabbed his hand “fine, we are outside, spill the beans.”

She definitely had no tact.

He walked silently a bit longer until they reached a small park and he sat down on a bench and Aelin took a spot at his side never letting his hand go.

And then he told her. Everything that had happened in the room. The results of the inquiry, the marshal’s accusations. The identity of the first student he had lost and his desire to quit.

“I wanted to throw my wings in the marshal’s face.” He looked down dejected “I feel lost now. I want to go back to my students, I owe it to them, to teach them how to be safe. But everything else… I don’t care about it anymore.” his head leaned against her shoulder and Aelin brushed his head with her hand and kissed it tenderly “Ro, how can I help you?”

Rowan turned his head to her and she thought his eyes were wet with tears “what you are doing just now is enough. Having you with me helps.”

“Do you need to go back to the airbase now?”

Rowan nodded sadly.

“Ok, I’ll drive you.” Aelin stood and Rowan followed but before moving he pulled her to him and drew her in for a kiss “I love you.” He said quietly.

She flicked his nose “let’s go.” She offered him her hand and together they walked back to her car.

They arrived at the airbase not long after “do you need me to come in?”

Rowan shook his head “my team is there. I will be fine. Gav will stop me from doing anything stupid.”

“Good. I am going back to the station.” She leaned forward to kiss him “Will you be okay? I am worried about you.”

“I am a big boy.” He joked.

“Ro…”

He leaned forward and kissed her “I do love so much when you call me Ro like that…”

Aelin smiled against his lips “don’t do anything stupid and tomorrow you can ravish me all you want. You can even be super creative.”

“How can I refuse such proposal?” He kissed her again “I will be fine.” His hand went to the door handle and opened the door “I will see you tomorrow morning at home. Have a nice night shift.”

Aelin’s heart swelled with joy at the word home. Their place. They hadn’t made it official but her house had become home. Their home. And she loved the feeling of it.

“Think creative, captain.”

He winked at her and left the car. Then he waved at her and Aelin left, he put his cap on his head and headed back inside the airbase.

-

Rowan made his way to Lorcan’s office and took a deep breath before knocking on the door.

“Come in,” came from inside.

Rowan entered the room and Lorcan looked up at him and he did notice the expression of disbelief in his CO’s face.

“Rowan —” but the other man stopped him.

“Thank you for today. For the support.” Rowan said quietly sitting on the chair in front of his CO.

“The man was out of line.” Lorcan growled “he knows what kind of instructor you are. How strict you are. The man was trying to get you sacked as a punishment for his son’s death knowing full well that again it was not your fucking fault.”

Rowan looked away, shutting away the painful memories.

“I already sent orders to start working on the canopies and check them all.”

Rowan nodded silently.

“I know what we can do to cheer you up.” Rowan turned his head staring at a surprisingly cheery Lorcan. Elide was really doing miracles.

“Grab you gear and let’s get out in the air, this man here needs to fly. It’s been so long that it’s a miracle I can still be called a pilot.” And he chuckled.

Rowan stood “Fine, be ready to be crushed.”

Lorcan grinned and stood as well “Oh, I submitted a proposal to allow women to serve in the airforce.”

Rowan’s head whipped to one side “who are you and what have you done with Lorcan Salvaterre?”

“The captain and Elide. Turns out we have both chosen very strong women.”

“I like that.”

“Me too.”

Rowan was doing his pre-flight checks when he noticed Lorcan joining him. The man had always exuded charisma.

“You should really send Elide a picture of you in a jump suit. I know how much Aelin likes it, I guess Elide might appreciate it too.”

Lorcan lifted an eyebrow while he reached his jet and popped open the canopy “you think?”

Rowan nodded “how is it going with her by the way?”

“She is incredible. She is tiny but fierce and stubborn and quite amazing.”

Rowan could not believe it, Lorcan was in awe of someone a feat that he thought was impossible.

“You are in love with her.”

“I think so.” said Lorcan hiding the words in a cough, almost embarrassed by his admission.

“Good.” Then he stared at Lorcan and he realised that going out out for a flight had been a good idea. They were evenly matched in skill and it was going to be a fun one. They had a few turbulent months but he had more or less always got along with him. Flying together again felt like the good old times.

“You missed a spot.” Rowan pointed at one section under the wing. 

Lorcan replied with a middle finger and it felt nice to have their old banter back when Lorcan could finally put aside his CO mask for a while.

“I am not a cadet, I know how to do my pre flight checks.”

“Well, you are not following the order we were taught at flight school, cadet Salvaterre.”

“Stop being a smartass, cadet Whitethorn.”

Rowan climbed in his jet and finished his checks inside and communicated with the tower to finalise the flight plan and get the authorisations required.

“Come on Lorcan, you are so slow. Tower gave us the all clear and the flight plan is in. Are you sure you still remember how to fly? Do you need any pointers, Chaos?”

Chaos was Lorcan’s callsign and he had earned it very early in his career for his flying skills.

Eventually they were both ready and the two jets got taxied away and not long after they were in the air.

“Rules of engagement: anything is allowed and two out of three?”

“Copy that, Iceman.”

“Good, be ready to lose.”

The two jets broke apart and went in different directions and for a while they just ran in circles above the airbase to study each other.

Lorcan hadn’t wanted to admit that he was a bit rusty and Rowan was indeed a nasty customer. 

Gavriel and the three young pilots were walking along one of the long corridors on the airbase when they heard the sound of jets in the air and ran to the next window to look who it was. The classes for the cadets were still grounded and the three of them were on ground.

“Holy fuck,” muttered Gavriel when he realised who was out flying.

He ran out to the viewing tower followed by the twins and Vaughan.

“Is that who I think it is?” Asked Connall speechless.

“Rowan and Lorcan.” The older man turned to the three young guys “you are in for a treat, they can make you feel like a newbie.”

Gavriel saw Rowan pull in a vertical and flying into the sun, roll on his back and continue in  straight line flying just a meter above Lorcan, finally flipped his jet once again and placed himself at Lorcan’s six.

Lorcan tried some evasive manoeuvres but Rowan did not let go, always at his tail attempting to get a lock on his CO.

Lorcan felt trapped and as a last ditch he went into a high G barrel roll to try and shake off Rowan.

“Rowan is going to overshoot,” said Connall who was silently watching the dogfight between their superiors.

Then Rowan pulled a trick out of the hat and kept his jet in line with Lorcan’s then rolled and found himself upside down and fired at the other man.

“Holy fuck,” was Fenrys’ comment at the scene.

“What did just happen? How did he even manage that?” Added Vaughan.

“That is Rowan for you. Now you realise why we can’t ever win?”

“One nil for me, Chaos.”

“You are a sneaky bastard, Whitethorn. And where did you learn such manoeuvres?”

Rowan laughed over the comms “get your act together, Commodore, and you can probably get me.”

The dogfight between the two went on for much longer. Lorcan did manage to win an engagement but Rowan still won 2-1. They landed back and they found Rowan’s team waiting for them.

“Good to see you two flying again. The youngsters never had the chance to see the pros at work.” Said Gavriel relieved that the two men seemed again at ease with each other.

“Oh, yeah. Our dear CO was a bit rusty and I took him out to stretch his legs and I handed out his arse to him twice.”

Lorcan gave him the middle finger in response.

*

Elide was in the ambulance doing some inventory checks when her phone pinged. She opened the text from Lorcan and almost fainted on the spot. It was Lorcan in his jump suit beside his jet and the man actually had a hint of a smile on his face. The second image was of him and Rowan standing back to back, their arms folded at their chest and both had a goofy smile on.

She jumped off the ambulance and ran to Aelin who was in the equipment room checking out their gear “Ace, look!” She shouted as she stormed in.

“What?” And she looked at the two pictures on Elide’s phone.

“Interesting…” Aelin stared with curiosity at the picture of the two men.

“He is soooo hot, I have never seen him in a jump suit and gods I don’t know? Want to remove it one bit at a time?”

Aelin laughed “that’s what I would do to Rowan right now if we were together in a private place. I would peel that jump suit off him until he is naked in front of me.”

She saw Elide blush “Lorcan and I haven’t… passed the kissing stage yet. He has never touched me. He is very considerate of me. But a few times he hugged me and I… felt him.” And she made a gesture and Aelin understood.

“Elide that is normal. How do you feel about the next stage? Like exploring each other’s bodies?”

“As in naked?”

“Yes, but you can start with keeping your underwear to have a barrier on if it makes you feel better.”

Elide sat on the bench beside her “I don’t know how to do this. How do I touch him?”

Aelin could see panic rise in the woman “ask him to show you and then once you feel brave enough to try just give it a go. It can be quite fun.” Aelin stopped for a second trying to find a way to tackle the next issue “Elide, have you ever… you know… explored your body? Down there?”

Elide blushed savagely “no.”

Aelin took the woman’s hand “take a nice warm bath and then…” Aelin wiggled her fingers “just put a hand between your legs and see how it goes, what you feel.”

“Oh.”

“At least once you two take the next step you have an idea of how it feels.”

“And Lorcan does that as well?”

Aelin nodded “yes, and if the man is as good as the others claim he might leave you a satisfied mess just with his fingers or mouth or both. A sort of appetiser before the main course.”

“Do you and Rowan…?”

Aelin nodded “and not just him to me but me to him as well.”

“This sounds so much.”

“Elide, look at me.” Aelin placed her hands on the woman’s shoulder “you do not have to take the next step until you are okay with it. Talk with Lorcan. Explain to him that you are getting curious and want to try more. You can use a safe word so that when you start to become uncomfortable, you shout that word and he has to stop.”

“Oh.”

“He hasn’t rushed you or anything?”

Elide shook her head “no, he has been so understanding, and never pushed.”

“Good. You set the pace. You are the one who needs time so he adjusts to you, remember. But if you feel like you are ready for another step just tell him.”

“Is it… is it as good as everyone says? Is it worth it?”

Aelin nodded “with the right person is something incredible. The intimacy… the connection…”

“Do you have that with your captain?”

“Yeah, and some.”

“Uhhh… are we getting serious?”

Aelin looked away for a moment “I loved Sam. A lot. We were good together but it was never like this. Never this deep.” She threw her head against one of the jackets “I don’t know how to explain it but my feelings for Rowan are so strong that sometimes I feel like I can’t breath.”

“I want that too.”

A moment later the conversation was interrupted by Lysandra entering the room “Here you are, why are you hiding?”

Elide showed Lys Lorcan’s picture.

“Oh mama…”

“Elide is feeling… curious.”

Lysandra hugged the woman “that is wonderful, darling. With such a specimen I’d be curious too.”

“Lys.” Shouted Aelin laughing.

“What? Fine the man can be an arsehole but I can’t deny that in that picture he is one hot bastard.”

“Show her the other.”

Elide showed Lysandra the picture with both Rowan and Lorcan.

“Ok, I really need a cold shower now.”

“I am pretty sure Aedion is available. Just keep it quiet.”

Lysandra laughed “don’t you think I tried? He said it would be against the rules.”

“I am almost done with equipment checks. This room will be free soon.”

“You are a wicked woman.” 

Aelin winked.

“Did you do it in here with the captain?”

“No, but his office is quite comfortable.”

“Nice.” Commented Lysandra.

Lys then took Elide’s hand “come on, we got a couple of things to finish.”

Once the two ladies left she phoned Rowan and he picked up at the first ring.

“I am jealous, Lorcan sent a picture of the two of you to Elide and I don’t get a copy?”

“You liked that?”

“You were both smiling.”

“We talked,” added Rowan “Lorcan was even more pissed than me. I think Elide did the miracle.”

Aelin laughed and relaxed at his admission “how so?

“He chuckled. Lorcan chuckled.”

She heard mirth in his voice.

“And the man is totally in love with Elide. I swear I never heard the man talk like that about a woman.”

“Interesting.”

“Also, apparently he has decided to support my idea of having women in the airforce and submitted a proposal to the higher ups and he is prepared to fight for it.” He told her, knowing she would love the news.

“Ok, I might finally start to like the man. What changed?”

“You and Elide apparently.”

Aelin smiled smugly “so he does listen, I am impressed. I don’t think I can cope with the idea of Lorcan not being the bad guy.”

“His job is very stressful and I don’t think I could be able to cope with the amount of shit he has to deal with.” He sighed “put me in a cockpit surrounded by enemies and I will be fine. But the idea of being stuck behind a desk playing the political game day in day out…. no. I will retire before it happens.” He added sadly.

“So, what’s on the agenda for the rest of the day, captain?”

“I am helping him with a few things. Then do more prep work for our performance review.”

“Do you think you are ready for that?”

She heard a lot of noise in the background and she guessed he was back in the hangar.

“Aye, we are good to go.” He was silent for a moment “I have to go, Fireheart.”

“Sure. Be safe and have a nice drill.”

“I love you. Have a nice night shift.”

“Send me that picture, Whitethorn.”

“Yes ma’am.”

She closed the conversation and relaxed heavily. Rowan sounded so much better and she was smidge less worried. With a big smile she went back to her work.

*

It was past 9pm and Aelin was in her office working away on some paperwork Dorian had sent over. She had a good day. It had felt good being back and she realised that Rowan’s help and their time away had helped very much. She felt saner and being at the station did not cause any problems. She was not ready yet to go back fighting fires, of that she was well aware. That was the last challenge she had to face but she and Aedion had discussed a training regimen that would slowly allow her to find the courage again to go fully back on duty and she felt excited at the idea.

She had been so engrossed in her work she did not hear the knock on the door. When it happened a second time she slowly raised her head “come in.” She said flatly and almost annoyed. 

A head of silver hair appeared on the door and she stopped “am I interrupting?”

“Of course captain. How dare you?”

He smiled and took a step in “I can go if you are working.”

Aelin rolled her eyes “get your arse inside and give me fifteen minutes of silence.”

He nodded and walked to her bookcase, giving her his back. His hand behind his back, his spine ramrod straight and his feet slightly apart in a perfect at ease position. She grinned. You could take the man out of the military but not the military out of the man.

She stopped working and rested her chin on her hands and a pen in her mouth. She studied him from behind and was impressed how still he could stay. A feat that had alway been impossible to her. 

Rowan grabbed one of her manuals and started flipping through it. It was only fair, she had done the same to his flight manuals. 

“A chemistry book?”

She eventually decided to stand and join him at his side.

“I hated chemistry in school. I was good at it but never liked it. I preferred physics.”

Aelin smiled and grabbed another book: fire science “this one might be more interesting.”

He had a look through it and smiled at her “can I take it at home or do you need it here?”

“You can take it home.”

Rowan smiled and placed the book on the sofa then cupped her face “hi, by the way.” And he kissed her.

“About time. I thought you were more interested in my books than me.” She teased him, pulling away briefly.

“You told me to stay silent for fifteen minutes. I was just following orders.”

“Screw that.”Aelin switched off her computer and walked to him, palm upturned, offering him her hand “follow me captain.”

“Do I need to be scared?”

She glared at him.

They walked along the corridor of the fire station and it was so silent and quiet compared to what he had seen during the day “where is everyone?”

“Resting. We got beds, you know? But Brullo and Ress are probably up watching tv as usual.”

They walked through the common area and as Aelin suspected the two guys were watching some  series on tv.

“Hi guys,” she greeted them.

They raised their heads “hi boss,” then noticed Rowan “oh captain, you found her. Good.”

“When I walked in I announced myself. I could not just waltz in.”

“Come on,” she grabbed his hand. Aelin dragged Rowan to the area where they kept the fire engine and the truck. She moved to the engine and opened a door on the side and pulled out two thick blankets then with them under her armpit, she started climbing the ladder at the end of the rig “Come on captain.”

Rowan looked at her puzzled.“Where are you going?”

He saw her rolling her eyes “on top of the rig.”

“If the alarm—”

“Captain, if the alarm goes off we have enough seconds to get our arses back down. They will not drive away with us on top of the rig. Do you trust me?”

He looked at her in a strange way.

Aelin threw the blankets on the top of the engine and climbed back down and marched to him, grabbing his hand “move.”

With force she dragged him to the ladder and prompted him to climb. He did as ordered and once at the top he stopped. Aelin stopped behind him, then in a swift motion she pulled her leg over the engine rail and climbed on its roof.

She took the blankets and placed them on top of all the hoses “it smells a bit of smoke. You’ll get used to it.”

He climbed over and stood for a second admiring the view from on top of the engine. When he turned he saw Aelin laying down on the blankets, her arms extended to him and a goofy smile on her face. He joined her and took a place at her side.

She nested against his chest and his arms looped around her frame.

“I come up here a lot on a night shift. I don’t sleep, I just relax, I love to imagine I am laying on the grass and that if I look up I can see the stars.”

“I do that when I am on an aircraft carrier and I am not on standby. I just walk on the deck along the rail, although is not as quiet as here as there are still flights happening, but it’s less busy. I just lean against the handrail, near the island and look out at the sea and I my case I can see the stars.”

Aelin turned in his arms and faced him “can you navigate by just using the stars?”

“We don’t use it much, GPS is a very handy tool, but it’s a skill we learn in case something fails and you are left with no GPS or any other electronic help.”

“What about you? Had a good day at the station?” He kissed the top of her head.

Aelin nodded eagerly “yes, I admitted I had a problem out loud and both Dorian and Aedion have offered to help in anyway they can.” She looked up at him “and you… you helped so much… and still helping…”

He smiled tenderly “it goes under my job description for boyfriend, I assume?”

She caressed his face loving the sound of him calling himself her boyfriend.

“Say it again,” she whispered to him.

“What?”

“That you are my boyfriend.”

He went for a deep kiss “I am yours.”

Aelin smiled against his lips “those are powerful words, captain.”

“They are true, though.”

Aelin’s heart raced and her hand went to his chest and found his doing exactly the same.

“I love this. Us. I really do…” she stuck her head in the crook of his neck inhaling his scent “but it still scares me because it happened so fast. One day I wanted to punch you, the next I wanted to kiss you. And it frightens me. I want this to work. I want us to work out.”

His hand covered hers still on his chest “you are not alone. This is a lot for me as well. But I am done fighting my feelings.” He hugged her closer “I love you, even when this world is a forgotten whisper of dust between the stars, I will love you.”

Aelin kissed his chest “you are so cheesy it’s disgusting.”

Rowan pushed her away and she rolled on her back at his side, her hand still in his “I was trying to be romantic and you ruined the moment.”

She smiled “sorry, I used to do that with Sam all the time. He would say something super romantic and I would respond with a joke. When he proposed I replied that I had to check with my lawyer first.”

“You are a brat.”

“It was so funny. Then I texted him and said that my lawyer had agreed.” Aelin brought their twinned hands to her mouth and kissed them “I showed him later on that night in bed how much I wanted to marry him. He did not complain.”

“You really are a handful.”

“I know, but now you picked me and there is no turning back.” She said against their hands fearing she had gone too far.

“I love a good challenge.” He rolled over and was now half on top of her, his hand on her side caressing her gently.

Aelin grabbed his face in her free hands and kissed him stupid but Rowan pulled back when he remembered where they were. He was still terrified they would drive away with the two of them on top of the engine.

He lay back down and his hand started trailing along her injured arm exposed by the short sleeved shirt. The burns had healed but the skin remained marred. He traced the length of it and leaned over to kiss it.

“Does it bother you?”

“No,” he said softly while continuing to kiss her injured arm and her scars “you are my brave and fierce Fireheart. It scares me that I almost lost you. But you scars…” another gentle kiss “they don’t bother me.”

She snuggled closer and he enveloped her in his arms.

“I forgot.” He propped himself up on one elbow “I have received an invitation.”

“Oh?” Aelin did the same and faced him.

“This weekend the navy is throwing a launch party for the new aircraft carrier, down at the dockyards before she is set at sea for the trials and then off to deployment.” He explained “Me and the guys have been invited and I can bring a guest. Fancy being my plus one?”

“Are we going public, captain?”

“If you want to.”

Aelin thought about it “I could wear the stunning black dress I bought in Doranelle.”

Rowan remembered that dress and the effect it had on him when she wore it in the shop.

“Are you trying to give a heart attack to the whole Terrasen military?”

Aelin giggled “just going to show all those posh boys what an amazing taste in women you have.”

“That I do.” He flicked her nose.

Aelin was about to reply when dispatch alarm went off and she bolted on her feet and pulled Rowan up and grabbed the blankets “come on, captain.”

She climbed down super quickly and by the time he made it down, the blankets were back in the truck and the squad was getting ready to go.

“Showing the captain your special spot?” Joked Aedion.

Aelin nodded and patted his shoulder “keep the guys safe and you stay safe too.”

“Always.” Quickly Aedion ran to the truck and a moment later the squad was gone.

“It’s hard to see them go and not being able to be with them.”

He pulled an arm around her shoulder “come, I’ll make you hot chocolate.”

She followed him “that’s exactly how you woo a woman, captain.”

TAGS:

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[nehswritesstuffs]

The Scottish Werewolf of Hackney - Part X

Got sidetracked again--ONWARD!

Part I - Part II - Part III - Part IV - Part V

Part VI - Part VII - Part VIII - Part IX

FFN - AO3

With Adrian now in the mix, are there any more surprises in store for Clara and Basil out in the Cairngorms? [2246 words; Whouffaldi werewolf AU]

Morning came and the trio decided to wander around the nearby wood in order to search for more firewood. Three trips and a nice pile in the bothy later and Clara and Adrian went out for an extra walk, leaving Basil to double-check some bits of the ward that was around their temporary home and seeing what he could do to patch and strengthen it. The two brought a thermos and snacks with them, taking a rest on the edge of an outcrop of rocks when the sun was at its highest.

“Could you imagine chaperoning a class trip out his way?” Adrian mused, staring off into the distance as he mulled over his tea. Clara shook her head with a chuckle.

“They’d have all run away before they got on the bus to the park limits, and by now would’ve broken off and formed their own independent state where they dab to salute and have outlawed mandatory literature courses.”

“Sounds like we’d be out of our jobs in such a bleak world.”

“Maybe; maybe we’d just be the lucky ones.” She handed him an apple and procured one of her own from the pack she had been carrying. Taking a bite, she watched as a few backpackers traversed the landscape before them in the distance. “Isn’t it funny what difference a year makes?”

“This time last year you were barely back at Coal Hill after Danny’s accident, and this time next year…”

“…I will be a bride in Bristol, with a new life spread out ahead of me. All new students, neighbors, coworkers… it will be like another adventure.” She took his silent offer of more tea from the thermos and sighed. “You will visit, won’t you?”

“I will if you will,” he replied.

“Of course; the kids will need an uncle figure and I highly doubt Basil’s secretary would be a good match—the man has all the pleasantries of a hand pie with a soggy crust and not enough filling.”

“That bad?”

“He’s a faun, apparently.” Adrian spat out his tea and pounded his chest with his fist, attempting to not choke on the rest. “I’m not entirely sure I believe it myself—he didn’t seem particularly goat-like.”

“You’ve met him? When?”

“Before Basil began working at Coal Hill—he brought over his stuff. It’s why you haven’t seen him wandering around in Danny’s old things.”

“Ah,” Adrian coughed. He took a wee sip of tea, careful to soothe his throat and not aggravate it again, before putting his cup down on the rock next to him. Shading his eyes with his hand, he squinted as he tried to see something far away. “Are those people getting closer?”

Clara turned her attention off towards the other hikers and frowned. “Yes, and it doesn’t look like they’re normal hillwalkers either.”

They waited in silence as the people came closer, with realization hitting both the friends at the same time: they were park rangers—or whatever it was the Cairngorms area in general had—and they were specifically coming right towards them.

“Shit—act normal,” Clara muttered. She took a sandwich from her bag (made with the very last of their bread, meaning that she was ready to hike back to the nearest village just for that) and pretended to not know what was going on. Adrian followed suit and before long they were approached by a trio of park rangers, all three women looking very tired and cross.

“Pardon me, but you two better get out of here while you have the chance,” the shortest of the rangers said. She seemed as though she was the leader of the group, with the other two merely hanging back a couple steps each. “We’re doing a sweep of the area; it’s not safe.”

“Not safe?” Adrian wondered. “What do you mean?”

“There’s been reports of wolves,” Tallest replied. “We were unable to confirm anything until early this morning, but there are definite wolf tracks, as well as tracks from a large, unknown animal running about. While we go around examining the tracks, we’re letting people know so that they can leave before nightfall.”

“Yes; if you need it, we can call a coworker that’s going around with a quad bike and a trailer picking up hikers,” Shortest said. “We cannot kick you out, but we can heavily suggest that you leave before things potentially get dangerous.”

“Potentially?” Clara asked. “Before it wasn’t safe, now it’s only ‘potentially’. Which is it?”

“We’re literature teachers; we put stock in the meaning of words,” Adrian explained, seeing that the rangers were a bit put-off. The middle-heighted woman stepped forward, holding her mobile out for them to see.

“These are some of the scenes we’ve been finding in the park,” she said, voice soft and accent broad. She cycled through a bunch of photos, with the bloody, mangled bodies of foxes, squirrels, and even large deer, all accompanied by oddly-shaped footprints in the dirt. “It’s not eagles or owls that are doing this, and this is more than what competitive foxes and wildcats are normally capable of doing. We don’t know which animals are causing these things, nor why, and we’d rather people leave before it’s their body we’re taking photos of.”

“Why are we talking about photos of bodies?” Everyone was torn from the conversation and looked to see that Basil was walking up to them, a curious look on his face. He greeted Clara with a quick kiss and examined the photo on Middle’s mobile.

“The three of you are in the same party?” Shortest asked.

“My sister’s fiancée,” Adrian cut in, motioning towards Basil. Both his coworkers gave him a quick glance—they heard and were ready to play along. “You know, just a family holiday during a bit where we could all take off work. Is it that weird?”

“No, not really,” Shortest said. She watched Basil hand her coworker her mobile back, looking at him critically. “Why weren’t you with them before?”

“I let them go ahead as I finished sorting the burnables and took a lengthy, private dump, thank you,” he said. The other park rangers stifled a snicker, along with Clara and Adrian, as Shortest attempted to not cringe in embarrassment. “If they’ve been siblings this long and haven’t murdered one another and left the body to rot in the middle of nowhere, I’m fairly safe in assuming they won’t do it now.”

“Alright…” Shortest said, unsure of the rather frank admissions. “Try to be out of the area by dark. If you can’t make it, then at least don’t stray too far from your shelter at night and do your hiking as a group. Until we know what it is that’s out there, we are going to be as cautious as possible—two hundred fifty years is a long time to not have carnivores wandering around and this needs to be properly documented.”

“Then I’d suggest you get back to work before the sun sets on you three,” Basil said. He waved sarcastically as the park rangers left, waiting until they were far from earshot before turning towards his fiancée and their coworker. “They know something’s wrong, but they’re not certain who or what to blame it on. The leader-one is especially attempting to find an answer and I get the feeling she suspects me.”

“Not shit, Sherlock,” Clara deadpanned. “You saw those photos—what’s out there?”

“It seems more consistent with a large cat, more of a tiger-large, but I doubt it was, as I didn’t think there was a zoo nearby with any wild-caught…” Basil trailed off, gnawing on his pointer finger as he worried over an answer. He then slowly furrowed his brow, his concerned stare hardening into a glare that he directed towards Adrian. “You.”

“What about me?”

“You led them here.”

“I led who here? I don’t understand.”

“The conceit of pards, you idiot!” Basil snapped. “Why would an escaped animal that had been bred in captivity kill for fun? Who would be stupid enough to release a large predatory creature in the Cairngorms without clearing it with the National Trust and the rangers who work these lands? No—these creatures were led here.”

“I didn’t even know what a pard was until Clara explained it last night!” Adrian defended. “For all you know they followed you up!”

“I would have smelled them had they followed us.”

“With that beaky thing? I’ll believe it when I see it, ol—”

“STOP!” Clara shouted. Both men looked at her and recoiled slightly at her furious expression. “Let’s just pack up and get back to the bothy and finish up the arguing there. The longer we’re out here, the more likely it is that we’ll be attacked, and I’m not going to die from a pard attack just because you two have your knickers in a twist.”

Agreeing to that, Basil and Adrian helped pick up the rest of the picnic and rush towards the bothy fast as they could without causing suspicion from anyone possibly watching from far off. They made it back to the bothy without incident, though after the door was shut the peace vanished and Basil had Adrian by the scruff of his neck again, holding him against the wall.

“Basil!” Clara snapped. “What is wrong with you!?”

“Nothing,” he growled, an undertone of the wolf inside tainting his voice. “All I want is to make sure that you are safe, Clara, and now this is twice in twenty-four hours where I’ve found my doubts lay on the same person.”

“Don’t be an idiot,” Adrian said. “Strength in numbers, yeah? You might not need me around as much as I need you, but you still need me if you want to have a better chance of scaring away those pards.”

“No, you don’t get it,” Basil snarled. He let Adrian go, though did not step away. “Pards are not afraid of humanoids; the only reason they do things at night is because it is more convenient—therefore easier—for them to cause mischief.”

“Killing a bunch of animals for fun is not just ‘mischief’.”

“It is when you don’t know any better.” Basil glanced over at Clara, who was still looking rather upset with them both. “We’ll get out of this, don’t worry.”

“It wasn’t just pard prints out there,” she mentioned. “The rangers said there were wolf prints as well. Care to explain that?”

“Pards have evolved to mimic other animals’ footprints as part of its camouflage—it would not surprise me if one conceit left more cat-like prints and another nearly canid in appearance.”

“That sounds like a lot of talk from someone who we just have to take their word for it,” Adrian mentioned. He nearly continued, yet stopped when Basil directed his sharp glare back towards him, making him silent again.

“We need to be on our guard, coblynau, because we’re now in a large heap of danger and I’m the only one who can effectively get us out without much incident,” Basil stated. “Now are you going to shut up and listen, or are you—”

Suddenly, a large thud against the door cut the werewolf off, making all three of the bothy’s occupants jump in surprise. The locked shutters rattled as well, the noise enough to make Basil push Adrian towards Clara before stepping between the both of them and the door, ready to make a stand.

“In broad daylight,” he snarled. Basil took off his sweatshirt, coat, socks and shoes as the noise continued, using the opportunity allow his body to slip into the hybrid form from the night before. He barked at the door and shutters, letting whomever was outside know that he meant business.

What met him was a deafening chorus of roaring, with there being at least five or six pards outside the bothy, waiting for them to leave. Basil howled angrily, a loud and long proclamation that he was not going to be intimidated. Admit he was scared? Of course, if the admittance were to Clara. To tell the pards he was bested by them? Not a chance in all of Hell.

The conceit left as Basil howled, scampering off with near-instant speed. He then allowed himself to become human once again, picking up his clothes discarded to accommodate his partial wolf form, and sitting down on one of the chairs wearily.

“They know where we are,” he said quietly. “They know, and they’ve been out in the daylight. Nothing is going to frighten them away.”

“All they’re doing is acting like a bunch of bullies,” Clara said. She went to her fiancée’s side and put her arm around his shoulders. “Don’t you worry—they’ll have to get through me first before they even can think of getting to you.”

“Same here,” Adrian added. He was still shaking from the fright, even though he seemed more resolute than ever. “One of my best mates is going to marry you and while I may not like it, I respect that you’re the one she loves. I might get used to you, in time, but you need to be around for more than a few weeks for that to happen, and you might not be around for more than a few days without help from the both of us.”

“Good,” Basil said while pulling on a boot. “It’s time for us to go into survival mode.”

[trendingnewsb]

Snow causes major disruption across UK

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionLatest BBC Weather forecast with Phil Avery

Flights and trains have been cancelled and drivers stranded as sub-zero conditions continue across the UK.

Rail networks Southeastern, South Western and ScotRail advised people not to travel on their routes on Friday.

Thousands of properties were left without power across the south west of England, south Wales and the Midlands.

The Met Office’s red warning has been lifted but flood warnings remain in place in the south-west and north-east of England.

In pictures: Storm Emma arrives in UK

Follow live updates here

Death toll rises as big freeze grips Europe

Services stopped leaving London Waterloo station just before 22:00 GMT with the South Western Railway network shutting down early.

Meanwhile, the RAC says that freezing rain could pose the biggest threat to drivers as black ice forms on roads.

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionPiers Hanson walked down the tracks after receiving clearance from police

There were severe delays to services in Lewisham, south London after passengers stuck on four Southeastern trains “forced open” doors, left the carriages and started walking along the tracks.

The rail company said police and the fire service assisted in helping to restore power on the tracks and get trains moving again.

Major incidents were declared in Wiltshire, Hampshire and Avon and Somerset, as blizzards brought roads to a standstill.

The M62 near Manchester was closed while the military helped police free stranded motorists.

Around 100 cars were stuck on the A505 between Hitchin and Luton but were able to complete their journey after a few hours.

The body of a woman has been found during a search for missing 51-year-old hillwalker Alison Fox, who went walking in the Ochil Hills behind Menstrie, Clackmannanshire, on Thursday afternoon.

A police spokesman said formal identification had not yet taken place but Ms Fox’s family had been informed.

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionNear miss bus driver Charmaine Laurie: “It looked worse on the video”

There are yellow weather warnings for snow, ice and wind in place across the UK throughout Friday and Saturday, with a Scottish warning in force until 23:55 GMT on Monday, but there are no more of the more serious amber alerts currently in place.

Prime Minister Theresa May has thanked everyone “going the extra mile”.

In Scotland the armed forces are transporting vital NHS staff to the hospitals where they work.

Electricity North West says it restored power to 20,000 homes in the north west of England but some rural areas could be without power overnight on Friday.

Image copyright Supt Toby Davies

Image caption Officers had the loan of poles to search for vehicles buried on the A386 in Devon

The Environment Agency has issued 15 flood warnings and 36 flood alerts for coastal areas in the south-west and north-east of England.

Severe flooding has been reported in Penzance, Cornwall, due to high river levels and swollen seas.

The Met Office said the UK has officially broken its record for the lowest temperatures in a 24-hour period in March.

Temperatures in the town of Tredegar in south Wales did not get above -5.2C on Thursday.

Passengers stuck on trains for 14 hours show ‘Dunkirk spirit’

Snow: Your questions answered

Near-miss bus driver: ‘My training kicked in’

Police forces around the UK have told people to travel only if necessary.

There is a warning of black ice on the M6, while some of the worst problems are near Rochdale on the M62 – which is closed as stranded vehicles are cleared – and on the A303 near Ilminster and the A31 in the New Forest.

On the M62, volunteers from Milnrow, Rochdale, took hot drinks, food and blankets to some of those stuck – including a bottle of warm milk for a five-week-old baby.

Responding to a call for help on social media, farmers used their tractor to drive off-duty midwives to a woman who had gone into labour in the remote village of Balgedie, near Kinross which had been cut off by the snow.

In Cumbria, a farmer ran out of feed for his 4,000 hens near Penrith and asked for a route to be cleared.

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionThe BBC’s Sian Lloyd reports from the Vale of Glamorgan

Image copyright Getty Images

Image caption Commuters in Cardiff were able to walk on a deserted dual carriageway

Image copyright Reuters

Image caption While passengers at London Waterloo rushed to get home before the last train

Commuters ‘almost jubilant’

By BBC transport correspondent Victoria Fritz

The more normal response to this level of travel disruption would be exasperation and even anger amongst marooned passengers.

But after a week of widespread chaos, the mood in Waterloo station on Friday at rush hour is almost jubilant.

The weekend is around the corner and many of the thousands here will be granted a temporary reprieve from doing daily battle with the railways.

The biggest gripe amongst passengers is that there has been precious little information of last minute changes to schedules.

Most are understanding of the extraordinary challenges track and train operators are facing.

Station staff are out in force and briefing passengers when they can. With the weather rapidly closing in, it’s a dash for all to get home before the clock strikes 22:00 GMT.

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionDr Chris Marsh on his 10-mile walk to work

Much of Wales was brought to a standstill, where routine operations were cancelled as health boards made a plea for staff to attend work. Travel conditions in Scotland remain treacherous.

The Premier League has said games are expected to go ahead despite the weather. However, four matches in the Championship and two games in the Scottish Premiership have been cancelled.

Animals brave the ‘Beast from the East’

Storm Emma: Not all heroes wear capes

Moyes ‘concern’ as snow disrupts sport

It’s snowing – can I refuse to come to work?

Image copyright PA

Image caption A pub landlord in Greater Manchester battles against the snow at his front door

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionIce blocks Birmingham’s canals

Image copyright PA

Image caption But these horses braved the elements at a farm in Snetterton, Norfolk

What is happening with the trains?

Across the UK, more than 20 rail operators are running a reduced service. National Rail has been advising passengers to check their service before travelling. Some train operators urged people not to travel at all.

Virgin Trains is not running any services north of Newcastle on Saturday, with their route between Carlisle and Scotland – affecting the London to Glasgow and London to Edinburgh routes – closed with no replacement buses running

Arriva Trains Wales has said a limited service will run on Saturday and passengers have been advised only to travel if essential up until Monday morning. There are limited trains between Shrewsbury and Crewe, Crewe and Chester, Chester and Holyhead, Wrexham and Bidston and Swansea and Carmarthen

Great Western Railway said there will be a limited timetable with no services between Cheltenham and Paddington, and the North Downs trains have been cancelled

Heathrow Express services between London Paddington and Heathrow Airport will run three times an hour

East Midlands Trains are running a reduced timetable with no trains between Lincoln Central and Grimsby Town, and between Sleaford and Skegness

On the Northern network, there are no services between Leeds and Carlisle/Lancaster, Liverpool and Manchester Airport, and Hazel Grove and Buxton. It warns passengers of possible timetable changes throughout Saturday

ScotRail aims to have several of its routes operational from early morning on Saturday but advises passengers to check before they travel

CrossCountry is not running trains between Birmingham and the South West and, Birmingham and Cardiff until after 09:00 GMT. No services will operate between Newcastle and Scotland and trains between Reading and Southampton/Bournemouth are not expected to run until mid afternoon

Southeastern railway said it will run an amended timetable on Saturday and services will start later after track inspections

How are the airports affected?

Image copyright PA

More than 1,250 flights were cancelled across the UK and Ireland on Friday.

Glasgow Airport: Open after “the worst snowfall in its history” but still warns of delays and cancellations

Edinburgh Airport: Ryanair will resume its full schedule of flights after a day of cancellations on Friday

Dublin Airport: Most flights will start later on Saturday but passengers are urged to check before they travel

Cardiff Airport: The airport will be closed until Saturday morning

Bristol Airport: There were significant disruptions on Friday and passengers are advised to contact their airline before travelling

East Midlands Airport: After a day of cancellations and delays, the airport is expected to be fully operational

Leeds Bradford: The airport is open but is experiencing delays

Heathrow Airport: The airport advises passengers to check before travelling

Gatwick Airport: There are delays and cancellations

City Airport: The runway was closed on Friday because of the snow and the airline advises passengers that delays and cancellations could be likely

Birmingham Airport: Runway unlikely to reopen before Saturday morning with travellers warned to check with their airline

What is the forecast?

The Met Office says the cold weather could last into next week and possibly the following week.

Up to 50cm (19 inches) of snow is forecast in parts of Dartmoor, Exmoor and uplands parts of south-east Wales accompanied by gales or severe gales in exposed areas.

Gusts of 60-70mph are possible in parts of northern England and Wales.

Up to 10cm (four inches) of snow is forecast in parts of Scotland and northern England, with up to 25cm over the area’s hills.

How has the cold weather affected you? Share your pictures, video and experiences by emailing haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk.

Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist. You can also contact us in the following ways:

WhatsApp: +447555 173285

Tweet: @BBC_HaveYourSay

Send pictures/video to yourpics@bbc.co.uk

Upload your pictures/video here

Send an SMS or MMS to 61124 or +44 7624 800 100

Or use the form below

Related Topics

United Kingdom

Rochdale

Severe weather

Snow

UK snow

Transport

Read more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-43251824

from Viral News HQ https://ift.tt/2GkgMHk via Viral News HQ

[morganbelarus]

Snow causes major disruption across UK

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionLatest BBC Weather forecast with Phil Avery

Flights and trains have been cancelled and drivers stranded as sub-zero conditions continue across the UK.

Rail networks Southeastern, South Western and ScotRail advised people not to travel on their routes on Friday.

Thousands of properties were left without power across the south west of England, south Wales and the Midlands.

The Met Office's red warning has been lifted but flood warnings remain in place in the south-west and north-east of England.

In pictures: Storm Emma arrives in UK

Follow live updates here

Death toll rises as big freeze grips Europe

Services stopped leaving London Waterloo station just before 22:00 GMT with the South Western Railway network shutting down early.

Meanwhile, the RAC says that freezing rain could pose the biggest threat to drivers as black ice forms on roads.

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionPiers Hanson walked down the tracks after receiving clearance from police

There were severe delays to services in Lewisham, south London after passengers stuck on four Southeastern trains "forced open" doors, left the carriages and started walking along the tracks.

The rail company said police and the fire service assisted in helping to restore power on the tracks and get trains moving again.

Major incidents were declared in Wiltshire, Hampshire and Avon and Somerset, as blizzards brought roads to a standstill.

The M62 near Manchester was closed while the military helped police free stranded motorists.

Around 100 cars were stuck on the A505 between Hitchin and Luton but were able to complete their journey after a few hours.

The body of a woman has been found during a search for missing 51-year-old hillwalker Alison Fox, who went walking in the Ochil Hills behind Menstrie, Clackmannanshire, on Thursday afternoon.

A police spokesman said formal identification had not yet taken place but Ms Fox's family had been informed.

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionNear miss bus driver Charmaine Laurie: "It looked worse on the video"

There are yellow weather warnings for snow, ice and wind in place across the UK throughout Friday and Saturday, with a Scottish warning in force until 23:55 GMT on Monday, but there are no more of the more serious amber alerts currently in place.

Prime Minister Theresa May has thanked everyone "going the extra mile".

In Scotland the armed forces are transporting vital NHS staff to the hospitals where they work.

Electricity North West says it restored power to 20,000 homes in the north west of England but some rural areas could be without power overnight on Friday.

Image copyright Supt Toby Davies

Image caption Officers had the loan of poles to search for vehicles buried on the A386 in Devon

The Environment Agency has issued 15 flood warnings and 36 flood alerts for coastal areas in the south-west and north-east of England.

Severe flooding has been reported in Penzance, Cornwall, due to high river levels and swollen seas.

The Met Office said the UK has officially broken its record for the lowest temperatures in a 24-hour period in March.

Temperatures in the town of Tredegar in south Wales did not get above -5.2C on Thursday.

Passengers stuck on trains for 14 hours show 'Dunkirk spirit'

Snow: Your questions answered

Near-miss bus driver: 'My training kicked in'

Police forces around the UK have told people to travel only if necessary.

There is a warning of black ice on the M6, while some of the worst problems are near Rochdale on the M62 - which is closed as stranded vehicles are cleared - and on the A303 near Ilminster and the A31 in the New Forest.

On the M62, volunteers from Milnrow, Rochdale, took hot drinks, food and blankets to some of those stuck - including a bottle of warm milk for a five-week-old baby.

Responding to a call for help on social media, farmers used their tractor to drive off-duty midwives to a woman who had gone into labour in the remote village of Balgedie, near Kinross which had been cut off by the snow.

In Cumbria, a farmer ran out of feed for his 4,000 hens near Penrith and asked for a route to be cleared.

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionThe BBC's Sian Lloyd reports from the Vale of Glamorgan

Image copyright Getty Images

Image caption Commuters in Cardiff were able to walk on a deserted dual carriageway

Image copyright Reuters

Image caption While passengers at London Waterloo rushed to get home before the last train

Commuters 'almost jubilant'

By BBC transport correspondent Victoria Fritz

The more normal response to this level of travel disruption would be exasperation and even anger amongst marooned passengers.

But after a week of widespread chaos, the mood in Waterloo station on Friday at rush hour is almost jubilant.

The weekend is around the corner and many of the thousands here will be granted a temporary reprieve from doing daily battle with the railways.

The biggest gripe amongst passengers is that there has been precious little information of last minute changes to schedules.

Most are understanding of the extraordinary challenges track and train operators are facing.

Station staff are out in force and briefing passengers when they can. With the weather rapidly closing in, it's a dash for all to get home before the clock strikes 22:00 GMT.

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionDr Chris Marsh on his 10-mile walk to work

Much of Wales was brought to a standstill, where routine operations were cancelled as health boards made a plea for staff to attend work. Travel conditions in Scotland remain treacherous.

The Premier League has said games are expected to go ahead despite the weather. However, four matches in the Championship and two games in the Scottish Premiership have been cancelled.

Animals brave the 'Beast from the East'

Storm Emma: Not all heroes wear capes

Moyes 'concern' as snow disrupts sport

It's snowing - can I refuse to come to work?

Image copyright PA

Image caption A pub landlord in Greater Manchester battles against the snow at his front door

Media playback is unsupported on your device

Media captionIce blocks Birmingham's canals

Image copyright PA

Image caption But these horses braved the elements at a farm in Snetterton, Norfolk

What is happening with the trains?

Across the UK, more than 20 rail operators are running a reduced service. National Rail has been advising passengers to check their service before travelling. Some train operators urged people not to travel at all.

Virgin Trains is not running any services north of Newcastle on Saturday, with their route between Carlisle and Scotland - affecting the London to Glasgow and London to Edinburgh routes - closed with no replacement buses running

Arriva Trains Wales has said a limited service will run on Saturday and passengers have been advised only to travel if essential up until Monday morning. There are limited trains between Shrewsbury and Crewe, Crewe and Chester, Chester and Holyhead, Wrexham and Bidston and Swansea and Carmarthen

Great Western Railway said there will be a limited timetable with no services between Cheltenham and Paddington, and the North Downs trains have been cancelled

Heathrow Express services between London Paddington and Heathrow Airport will run three times an hour

East Midlands Trains are running a reduced timetable with no trains between Lincoln Central and Grimsby Town, and between Sleaford and Skegness

On the Northern network, there are no services between Leeds and Carlisle/Lancaster, Liverpool and Manchester Airport, and Hazel Grove and Buxton. It warns passengers of possible timetable changes throughout Saturday

ScotRail aims to have several of its routes operational from early morning on Saturday but advises passengers to check before they travel

CrossCountry is not running trains between Birmingham and the South West and, Birmingham and Cardiff until after 09:00 GMT. No services will operate between Newcastle and Scotland and trains between Reading and Southampton/Bournemouth are not expected to run until mid afternoon

Southeastern railway said it will run an amended timetable on Saturday and services will start later after track inspections

How are the airports affected?

Image copyright PA

More than 1,250 flights were cancelled across the UK and Ireland on Friday.

Glasgow Airport: Open after "the worst snowfall in its history" but still warns of delays and cancellations

Edinburgh Airport: Ryanair will resume its full schedule of flights after a day of cancellations on Friday

Dublin Airport: Most flights will start later on Saturday but passengers are urged to check before they travel

Cardiff Airport: The airport will be closed until Saturday morning

Bristol Airport: There were significant disruptions on Friday and passengers are advised to contact their airline before travelling

East Midlands Airport: After a day of cancellations and delays, the airport is expected to be fully operational

Leeds Bradford: The airport is open but is experiencing delays

Heathrow Airport: The airport advises passengers to check before travelling

Gatwick Airport: There are delays and cancellations

City Airport: The runway was closed on Friday because of the snow and the airline advises passengers that delays and cancellations could be likely

Birmingham Airport: Runway unlikely to reopen before Saturday morning with travellers warned to check with their airline

What is the forecast?

The Met Office says the cold weather could last into next week and possibly the following week.

Up to 50cm (19 inches) of snow is forecast in parts of Dartmoor, Exmoor and uplands parts of south-east Wales accompanied by gales or severe gales in exposed areas.

Gusts of 60-70mph are possible in parts of northern England and Wales.

Up to 10cm (four inches) of snow is forecast in parts of Scotland and northern England, with up to 25cm over the area's hills.

How has the cold weather affected you? Share your pictures, video and experiences by emailing haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk.

Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist. You can also contact us in the following ways:

WhatsApp: +447555 173285

Tweet: @BBC_HaveYourSay

Send pictures/video to yourpics@bbc.co.uk

Upload your pictures/video here

Send an SMS or MMS to 61124 or +44 7624 800 100

Or use the form below

Related Topics

United Kingdom

Rochdale

Severe weather

Snow

UK snow

Transport

More From this publisher : HERE ; This post was curated using : TrendingTraffic

=> *********************************************** Learn More Here: Snow causes major disruption across UK ************************************ =>

Snow causes major disruption across UK was originally posted by 16 MP Just news

[pottersprecinct]

Hillwalker reported overdue in the Highlands

Hillwalker reported overdue in the Highlands

[ad_1] Rescuers are searching for a hillwalker who has not returned from a walk in the Highlands. Stephen Mitchell set off for a planned walk on Friday, February 23 in the Bendronaig Lodge, Lurg Mhor and Bearneas areas of Strathcarron. The 57-year-old had a rucksack and sleeping bag with him and was planning to sleep in bothies during the walk. Mr Mitchell was reported overdue in the early hours…

[scotianostra]

Adam Watson, the Scottish biologist, ecologist and mountaineer was born on April 14th 1930 in Turriff, Aberdeenshire. 

From an early age, Watson showed considerable academic prowess. He was Dux of Turriff Primary School and of Turriff Senior Secondary School in Latin, English, Higher Latin, English, French, Science, lower History and Mathematics.

His education continued at the University of Aberdeen in the 1950s, gaining a first class honours in zoology and also the department of natural history's MacGillivray Prize. He gained his PhD in 1956 for his thesis on the Annual Cycle of Rock Ptarmigan, and a second doctorate in 1967 for scientific papers on populations and behaviour of northern animals.

The scientist studied and wrote extensively about plants and animal life in the Cairngorms.  RSPB Scotland described Dr Watson, who research included studies of various upland birds, as "arguably the most knowledgeable Scottish naturalist and ornithologist of the last century".  

Dr  Watson  was a well-known figure in Scotland's climbing and hillwalking community.  He climbed extensively in the Cairngorms and in Scotland's other mountain ranges. He also climbed and skied abroad, including in Norway, Lapland, Canada and Alaska.

A John Muir Trust Lifetime Achievement Award was among other honours given to Dr Watson. The man  dubbed Mr Cairngorms also received the Fort William Mountain Festival's Scottish Award for Excellence in Mountain Culture.

Watson’s research centred on grouse, his magnum opus on the subject, co-written with Robert Moss called Grouse, was a runaway bestseller.

A dam, a natural communicator in speech or the written word also appeared extensively on TV and radio in Scotland, his first broadcast was back in 1948 – Dr Watson’s enthusiasm for the sciences was never less than infectious, and he described his work in simple terms without resorting either to jargon or dumbing down. What made him loved by editors was his ability to read standard situations from a different viewpoint.

Watson’s  literary output from the age of 14 runs to an astonishing 475 items including 22 books, hundreds of scientific papers and reviews and 175 unpublished technical reports.

In 1971 he was called to represent the Crown as expert witness at the fatal accident enquiry following the Cairngorm disaster in which six schoolchildren died. His quiet evidence drew not only on law, but on science backed by practical experience of the very worst of mountain weather.  He surprised the Forestry Commission when he successfully opposed a particular development not merely on the expected ecological argument, but by astute demolition of the business case.

Doctor Adam Watson died after a short illness on January 23rd 2019, aged 88. 

[robertmcangusgroup]

The Daily Thistle

The Daily Thistle – News From Scotland

Thursday 16th November 2017

"Madainn Mhath” …Fellow Scot, I hope the day brings joy to you…. The bitter cold of the past few days has gone or more correctly I should say the temperature has risen a few degrees, still jacket weather, but it’s enjoyable to be out in the fresh air.. The days are clear skies, painted a brilliant blue in sharp contrast to the white of the towns houses, but it’s 4:00am and certainly no blue sky not that there is in reality, Why’s that I hear you ask..  Well on a clear cloudless day-time like it was yesterday the sky appears blue because molecules in the air scatter blue light from the sun more than they scatter red light. The opposite occurs when we look towards the sun at sunset, we see red and orange colours because the blue light has been scattered out and away from the line of sight…The things you discover on The Daily Thistle…..

SNAKE DISCOVERED INSIDE RENTAL VAN IN ABERDEEN…. A woman moving house was left "completely terrified" when she found a snake in a rental van The Scottish SPCA was called to the scene in Aberdeen after Susan Grayson spotted the snake slithering around on a seat. The reptile, thought to be a non venomous corn snake, disappeared but was still thought to be inside the van. A mechanic was called out to try to find the snake in the bodywork of the van. Mrs Grayson said: "We picked up the van and started doing our runs as we are moving house. "We were about to get back in the van and my partner found the snake slithering around the side of the seat, at which point we decided not to get back in the van. "I was completely terrified. We phoned Hertz and they said they hadn't had that before. So we then phoned the Scottish SPCA. "I am scared of spiders, let alone snakes."

DATE SET FOR NEW SCOTTISH AVALANCHE INFORMATION SEASON…. Daily avalanche information reports for six mountainous areas of Scotland are due to be issued from 15 December. Every winter, the Scottish Avalanche Information Service (SAIS) assesses avalanche hazards in Lochaber, Glen Coe and Creag Meagaidh. The service also covers Southern Cairngorms, Northern Cairngorms and Torridon. It provides information on the stability of snowpack on the mountains from December until mid-April. Hillwalkers and climbers use the SAIS' reports alongside mountain weather forecasts when planning trips into Scotland's hills. SAIS' most recent forecasting season, 2016-17, involved the service's lowest number of recorded avalanches in almost 10 years. There were 90 avalanches between December last year and April this year.

TEENAGER CAUGHT IN FBI CHILD ABUSE IMAGES INVESTIGATION…. A teenager caught with almost 14 hours of child abuse videos has been sentenced to 15 months detention. William Stewart, 19, who also downloaded 3,000 abuse images, was traced to a Perth caravan park bedroom as part of an FBI operation. A sheriff refused an appeal for anonymity by his parents, who said they feared reprisals from fellow members of the travelling community. Stewart was also placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years. Depute fiscal Tina Dickie told Perth Sheriff Court: "The accused was 17 at the time and was a school pupil with no previous convictions. "He lived at Double Dykes caravan park in a three-bed static caravan with his family. "The police received intelligence from the International Law Enforcement Agency that an account registered to the accused had been accessing indecent images of children from the internet." The fiscal said the videos showed children from a few months old to the age of 16 being subjected to sexual abuse by adults. Stewart, from Perth, admitted possessing indecent images of children at his home between 23 November 2014 and 27 August 2015. Sheriff Lindsay Foulis told Stewart: "This is a large amount of images and a significant proportion of the images are in the most serious categorisation."

TRUMP GOLF COURSE DUNES' SPECIAL STATUS 'TO BE REVIEWED'…. The special scientific status of the area where Donald Trump built his golf course in Aberdeenshire is under review, BBC Scotland has learned. Scottish Natural Heritage said the Menie golf course had caused habitat loss and damage to the dune system. The environmental agency is assessing the scale of the impact to decide whether all or parts of the site should lose their special status. The Trump course said its environmental approach was "first class".

SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH APPOINTS FIRST FEMALE BISHOP…. The Scottish Episcopal Church has elected its first female bishop. The Rev Canon Anne Dyer was appointed the new Bishop of Aberdeen and Orkney by the Episcopal Synod. Canon Dyer is currently the Rector of Holy Trinity Church in Haddington, East Lothian. She is also a member of the Scottish Episcopal Institute Council. The See of Aberdeen and Orkney became vacant last November when the Rt Rev Dr Robert Gillies retired as Bishop of the diocese. Canon Dyer said: "I am delighted to be elected by the bishops of the Scottish Episcopal Church to serve as bishop in the United Diocese of Aberdeen and Orkney. "It will be a privilege to lead the people of this diocese as they continue to make known the love of God to those in their communities and beyond. "I am looking forward to both the challenge and excitement of serving and worshiping together in diverse locations across the diocese and to joining the College of Bishops." The 60-year-old was ordained a deacon in 1987 and became a priest in 1994 in Rochester, Kent. The Most Rev Mark Strange, Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church, said: "Anne brings with her a wealth of experience in theological education and mission development, and has so many of the gifts sought by the diocese together with a deeply loving and generous personality. "I am also delighted that those gifts have allowed us to elect a woman to our College of Bishops."

On that note I will say that I hope you have enjoyed the news from Scotland today,

Our look at Scotland today is of Caerlaverock Castle, Dumfriesshire and a fine looking castle it is...

A Sincere Thank You for your company and Thank You for your likes and comments I love them and always try to reply, so please keep them coming, it's always good fun, As is my custom, I will go and get myself another mug of "Colombian" Coffee and wish you a safe Thursday 16th November 2017 from my home on the southern coast of Spain, where the blue waters of the Alboran Sea washes the coast of Africa and Europe and the smell of the night blooming Jasmine and Honeysuckle fills the air…and a crazy old guy and his dog Bella go out for a walk at 4:00 am…on the streets of Estepona…

All good stuff....But remember it’s a dangerous world we live in

Be safe out there…

Robert McAngus

[scottishdreams]

Scottish News | Avalanche patrol with the experts who brave the blizzards to check conditions for hillwalkers in ...

The warning comes after reporters from the Scottish Avalanche Information Service battled fierce winter weather to check conditions. http://ift.tt/2jjR0a8

[on-misty-mountains]

East Lomond Hillfort

This week we drove out to Fife to visit the hillfort East Lomond for a hillfort tour. This Iron-Age-style fort is likely associated with the Venicones, a Southern Pictish tribe. One of the first things that was found here during excavations was a pictish stone, a stone slab with the carving of a steer, a castrated bullock, which may point to the use of agriculture in the surrounding area. Fife still has copious amounts of farmland nowadays. When we arrived, a heavy cloud was sitting on the hills and the top of the hillfort was shrouded. A strong wind was pushing clouds past us, occasionally revealing the shape of the fort. Eventually we entered the cloud and made our way to the top.

Unsurprisingly, there was no view to be had from, but if you look closely around the column (which shows you the surrounding mountains you could potentially see), you can see a circular raised edge. This is likely the outline of a broch, a big stone tower, that once stood on top of East Lomond.

Everything is covered in grass. There are only vague outlines suggesting walls, bumps and lines suggesting former buildings. However, excavations uncovered plenty of things, for example prehistoric and Roman pottery, a Bronze ring-headed pin, an iron horse-bit, shale and glass armlets, an ingot mould, a crucible and a rotary quern. The abundance of everyday items suggests a site which was occupied permanently. Even a Bronze Age tomb was found. On the picture below you see the ramparts. There probably would have been a big wall on top back in the day.

When we got out of the wind, the clouds blew apart for a brief period and revealed the village of Falkland on the plains below:

It’s a very picturesque village and one of its attractions is Falkland Palace, which you can see to the right:

On the other side we had a view towards Lothian. The faint outline of Arthur’s Sea and the Crags, two landmarks of Edinburgh, was illuminated by the low Winter sun. Arthur’s Seat itself is a hillfort. Its occupants must have been able to see East Lomond as well. 

As we descended, we came upon a long wall with a ditch, following the shape of the hillfort downwards. This was probably the lower part of the ramparts.

This is what the other side of the hillfort looks like. The gentle slope on the left is probably the way people would have gone up to the top.

On the way back we stopped by the lime kiln. In the 19th Century limestone was broken up and burnt in this kiln, in order to be mixed into the acidic soil to improve crop fertility. It was backbreaking labour, as the men toiled from 4 am (!) till 5 pm, breaking up roughly 2 tons of stone, inhaling smoke and dust in the process. The arches were ‘draw holes’, facing different directions, so that the burnt lime could be drawn out facing away from wind and rain.

By this point the heavy cloud had vanished and the setting sun lit up the hillfort:

As we descended towards the car park, we could see West Lomond, a much bigger and steeper hill, the other of the two ‘Paps of Fife’, the most notable ‘bumps’ in the otherwise relatively flat landscape of Fife. The day ended quite differently from how it started.

Click here if you want to watch the hillfort tour on Youtube.

[daftynews-blog]

Man on Mountain Meme is Really Just a Lost Hillwalker

A MAN at the centre of many motivational memes is not a successful life coach or someone who has achieved anything, it has been confirmed.

On the contrary, the man is actually a bored hillwalker who got lost. He explained to Dafty News: "Well, you see, I went hillwalking and got a bit lost. I threw my hands in the air in utter disbelief as I had no clue where the hell I was and some geezer took it upon themselves to turn me into a motivational meme." The news will come as a blow to those on social media who seek out those types of memes for a source of inspiration. "I am actually an unemployed heavy-drinking loser with a string of failed relationships," he told our reporters. It is not the first time a motivational meme has turned out to be the exact opposite. In June of 2015 a meme of a woman meditating on a sunset beach was actually a single mother-of-five trying to get rid of a hangover.

Need motivated? Have a look at some of our own motivational memes here >>>

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