#mid atlantic current

[this-user-is-sus]

Scientists this week warn that the collapse of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Current (aka AMOC, contains the Gulf Stream) is closer than they previously predicted, as early as 2025.

This is bad and will lead to ripples in climate, weather patterns, local "normal" temperatures, storm severity, ocean oxygenation and fishery productivity (hello phrase "fish die-offs" 😭), and sea level that will disrupt life as we know it and cannot be reversed in this century or maybe (likely) for centuries to come.

(You can check the Wikipedia page for more information.).

Scream at someone about this.

Go here -- https://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/ -- or here -- https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials. Start typing. Feel free to use the template I'm putting under the "read more." Press send. Repeat if you have the energy. Ily if you do it even once. Thank you, and keep fighting the good fight!

Dear <NAME OF OFFICIAL>,

<OPTIONAL SENTENCE OR TWO TO INTRODUCE YOURSELF. Say why climate change matters to you. Say if you're frightened. Say if you're depressed. Say if you're anxious. Make it personal.>

This week a study was released (https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/25/world/gulf-stream-atlantic-current-collapse-climate-scn-intl/index.html, https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-39810-w) showing that the collapse of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation is far closer than scientists had previously thought. When this current stops, it will have far-reaching impacts on sea level, weather, storm patterns, and fishery production that will be irreversible for a century or far longer.

I am deeply worried about the future. We need climate change ACTION now, not just voluntary incentive programs. Please take action to improve our electrical grid, transition our power plants to clean fuels, transition to clean modes of transportation, and tax carbon emissions.

Sincerely,

<YOUR NAME HERE>

[nowendil]

hm. might have just felt the first flutters incoming of gender plate tectonics

[ravenkings]

I'm sure this kind of poll has gone around before, but I'm curious...

reblog for larger sample size

(also apologies if i got some of the state abbreviations wrong)

[thevoidstaredback]

An hour after sunrise and all trails had been dead ends. Well, all but one.

Superman and The Flash had regrouped outside of Amity Park, both reporting their lack of findings. No one was thrilled and frustrations were only heightened. Constantine and Zatanna had reported much the same, though they only increased their efforts to find the ghosts.

Cyborg was looking into Amity Park's Mayor, but he wasn't expected to have any results for another ten minutes at the soonest. Robin and his team didn't have any headway on the Missing Person's case.

Everyone was anxious.

Batman's first course of action was to send The Flash and Superman out again, though he wanted Kid Flash and Impulse to go with Flash while Superboy went with Superman. That would leave Robin, Wonder Girl, and Red Huntress in Amity Park. They'd have to make due.

"Flash, take Kid Flash and Impulse and to another run of the country. Superman, you and Superboy are gonna search everywhere else again. Be meticulous."

The Flash groaned, crumpling up the empty wrapper he now held in his hand before stashing it in Batman's utility belt. "We were meticulous before," he said. He was quick the call both of the speedsters before running off to start again, going from Washington State and moving East.

Superman was quick to do the same, though he didn't like the idea of working with Superboy, he'd do so for the sake of the world. The feeling was mutual. Superman started his search in Asia while Superboy started in South America.

Batman quietly wished he had his bike with him to make the trip faster, but he didn't complain as he walked the few miles to Amity Park. Robin and his team hadn't been able to get to the Fenton Portal, as he was now calling it, so he was going to get there himself. Hopefully, Cyborg will have information about the Mayor ready for him so that he can hit two bats with one stone.

***

Barry was even more meticulous as he ran back across the USA. He had taken Alaska, the Western and Southwestern States; Wally was checking the Midwestern and Southern States; and Bart was in the Mid Atlantic and New England States.

He didn't know their time limit, but he knew there was one. They all knew it, they just didn't know what it was.

Turning over every stone he could find in the West and Alaska took up the entire first half of the day. There was so much empty space everywhere, but the cities were packed tightly together and overflowing. It wa hard to find any one specific thing, especially while trying not to tip off civilians about the crisis.

He had yet to see any ghosts anywhere. He'd even spend some time in places that were rumored to be haunted, but those all seemed baren of anything other than dust. Though, there were signs of something having been there recently, but no signs of anything being there currently. It freaked him out.

High Noon was an ironic time to end up in the Southwestern United States.

If Barry thought the West was full of space, the Southwest had it topped by barrels. Cities were far apart, but closely packed with people. The space between cities was dotted with towns and ranches an animals. He decided to needed a very detailed map of the US because this was just ridiculous.

Again, Barry took time to check places that were supposed to house ghosts, but they all came up empty. Every ghost town was very lacking in ghosts! If he hadn't seen swarms of them- hell, if he didn't occasionally work with a ghost, he'd think he was wasting his time. As it was, however, the haunts he was visiting were so much more eerie now that he knew they were empty when they weren't supposed to be.

His mind wandered back to what Deadman had said. The US Government had taken a child. A ghost child, but a child all the same. They'd been operating under the nose of the Justice League for who knows how long! And they were only just nowhearing about it.

It made him feel horrible.

Not for the first time, he wondered how people could be so cruel.

Anything could be happening to that ghost child and they'd have no clue about it until they found him. Hell, if Deadman hadn't brought it to the JLD, who brought it to the JL, then none of them would've had a clue at all!

It made him sick.

Focus! He needs to focus on the task at hand. He can dwell later when the kid is safe with his people- safe away from the government that hurt him.

Had the kid been a US Citizen before he died? Probably, right? It would make sense. Phantom - that was his name, right? - had probably been a citizen of Amity Park before he died. How long had he been dead? How had he died? Who would be careless enough to let a child die? Had it been an accident? Had it been on purpose? If so, who could be heartless enough to murder a child in cold blood?

Barry isn't religious, not like some of the other heroes, but he knows that most religions view children as pure; incapable of committing wrongs. Hell, almost everyone in the world holds those same views! So how could someone, in clear conscious, hurt a child in any way?

His eyes blurred slightly at the thought.

Focus, Barry! You need to focus!

He forced his mind to stop wandering, not allowing himself to stray anymore from his objective. He was almost to the border of Texas and Louisiana. He'd double back as many times as it took to find Phantom.

The sun set over Illinois, USA.

Tick Tock...

Part 5 Part 7

[colourstreakgryffin]

you know why i'm here, love.

headcanons with Alastor and a Female Rarity-Like! Reader. I'M ON MY KNEES.

love ya :3

Letssss gooooo! Al and his drama queen! I’ve been thinking about this for so long. Love you too! Thank you soooo muccchh! 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🥰😍🥹

Alastor- Crystal Heart

Alastor’s a man who’s big into fashion and appearing appealing so doesn’t it make sense his dream woman is a fashionista

Not even just a fashionista but a talented, original fashionista with her own lines of boutique stores and fancy designs. You’re not an Overlord but you may as well be. You’re the Queen of Fashion in the Pride Ring and most importantly, the Queen of Alastor’s heart

Most of the Hazbin Hotel staff find you unbearable, on the surface. You’re kinda loud, appearance-driven, almost too vain, very prissy and adamant on staying clean and perfect but Alastor loves these behaviours. He knows you’re more than a pretty face but he doesn’t mind you maintaining your poise and grace in your own way

Alastor finds your light blue telekinetic magic interesting. Your magic is the primary reason you can get out so much out under such little time. Your magical touch manipulates and smoothly moves around limitless amounts of items and whilst you work, diligent and determined, you can also bring Alastor over to give him his mandatory morning kiss

Alastor likes your accent. You have a Mid-Atlantic accent, it makes your lady flare glow even more and he likes that you and him both clash and mesh at the same time

Alastor joins you on your gemstone hunting anytime you need it, acting as your muscles to pull your wagon around effortlessly, this mf hella strong, so you don’t have to. You’re too sophisticated and classy to pull a carriage around. It may stain your gorgeous skin

If it’s not obvious, Al is kinda a simp for you but you’re a bigger simp for him

Alastor loves it that you design his coats. You make him look fashionable and he won’t ever go to any other tailor nor designer. Nobody matches your spark and he feels proud to be wearing an outfit you designed for him. He looks magnificent! Doesn’t he?

Alastor is that lovely, caring gentleman you’ve always dreamed about and when you’re around the man you like; you’re giddy, giggly and flustered. This is how you, the Pride Ring’s own lady of fashion, behaves around Alastor. Charmed, blushy and nervous about messing up, all whilst trying your damn best to not get too fangirly-like

Yeah… your romantic admiration devolves into full-blown fangirling and Alastor does not mind it at all. His girlfriend being his biggest cheerleader is all he could ask for

Alastor is the gentleman you’ve always wanted, you’re the lady Alastor has always wanted. It’s a win-win for both of you

Alastor absolutely loves the way you defend him like he’s a little deer. The way you loudly yelled you’d fight anybody for even touching him, despite the fact you’re such a lady and much prefer fashion. It makes his undead heart fly off to Heaven

Alastor knew the moment he saw you in the most wacky and unorganised mess of a dress he’s ever seen, pretty usually neatly styled and curled hair messed up and eyes twitching that you’re simply perfect and when you responded to Angel Dust asking about you with

“My emotions, darling! Stress couture!” He also knew right away that he is going to put a ring on your finger and make you his for good. You’re absolutely everything that both drives him crazy and makes him feel all the more appreciated

You’re the biggest drama queen in Hell, long outdoing Angel Dust, you whine and worry about the smallest things; you lost your diamond-encrusted ribbon? You’re laying on the velvet couch you summoned and is currently weeping for a man Alastor to save you. You’ve been unable to brush your hair more than hundred times before bed? You’re going to bed sobbing in disgust at your messy hair. You forgot to pack plates for the Hotel picnic? Where’s the dramatic fall chair?

Alastor loves your little sister, she is precious. A charming sweetie belle and he is happy to babysit for you if you need it but he notices how you’re able to balance caring for your little sister and your intense work spectacularly. It’s so impressive, it adds to the list of things Alastor loves about you

Alastor cannot look at you in any style of a beautiful dress without hiding in the corner and mentally dying. That’s how much he finds you attractive, seeing you in a gorgeous dress will send him to double Hell

Alastor is getting a hang of your pet cat, Opal. She isn’t the nicest, she is even irritable to you but he is going to keep trying to befriend your pet so you feel even more inclined to him. Look at him, he’s bonding with your feisty vicious Hell cat! Aren’t you proud of him?

Alastor isn’t use to people being so… well, generous to him. You’re so generous, even when it seems that you’re just shallow and egocentric. You care about your looks and proclaim being beautiful is your whole thing but you care immensely about everybody else, you’re a considerate, loving person with a big sister vibe to all and you’re a open, dedicated girlfriend to Alastor. You give up the most expensive and valuable items to opportunities, all for anybody else to enjoy, even if you wanted them so bad

You’re just that much of a sweetheart… it is one of the main things that drew Alastor to you. You’re innocent, you’re quite angelic for a Sinner demon

Of course, you’re in Hell because your pride, greed and vanity is so high but you’re barely a bad person. You’re more of a misguided lady of looks and Alastor, whilst being the worst person you could ever meet and date, will always protect you from Hell

Alastor gifts you all kinds of expensive gemstone jewellery to accessorises. That dark purple diamond-shaped gemstone golden-branded necklace of yours? That’s from Al. Those nice pair of shiny emerald stud earrings, yep, right from Alastor. The rose gold-detailed engagement ring now on your ring finger, delivered at your doorstep by Al himself

Alastor will help you with your work when he can, he’ll dress you in designs meant for you to wear and he’ll even help run a fashion show. He’s like your manager in an odd but cute way, he oversees your models and he announces the show himself, through his signature microphone. Many are surprised by Alastor ‘working’ for you but he isn’t ashamed to admit that his girlfriend made this fashion line and lead you out onto the stage after it’s over, so you can be admired by the crowd

You and Alastor throwing ‘darling’ at each other for fun go brrrrr~!

Alastor knows you don’t like getting dirty or wet or messy so he’ll pick you up, the moment you two encounter something gross. He’ll carry you over it. As a gentleman, he must keep you safe and since you’re specifically his lady, you let him do it. Giggling all lovestruck and like a cute happy teenage girl with her longtime crush, but situations like these always ends with Alastor happy you’re happy and you happy that you’re so close to your boyfriend like this

“Darling. Tell me all about the sports history exhibition with your friend? Was it fancy? Ooh. How about a great piece for fashion inspiration? Cough up every detail. Don’t fret, I’ll dress you for today, you just speak to me. Yes, today is business fancy for you, my dear”

[mariacallous]

And the people who are angry and frustrated with this city cut across all political beliefs, and include more than a few current employees of the city.

I'm not saying NYC is going to become a mid-Atlantic Waco or Coeur D’Alene, but I am saying that it is not impossible the Empire State gets redder. The suburbs are already a political battleground and with the commuting they bring stuff with them.

[fishenjoyer1]

Fish of the Day

Today's fish of the day is a bit different from normal, instead of focusing on a particular species of genus we will be focusing on landlocked salmon today by special request of Topi!

(Atlantic Salmon)

Landlocked salmon are notable due to the inherent nature of the salmon life cycle, where salmon hatch in a freshwater stream, migrate to the ocean until they achieve sexual maturity, and then travel back to the same stream they hatched from. However, landlocked salmon are unable to migrate and spend their life cycles entirely in freshwater. The three main landlocked salmon would be The Kokanee salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka), which are a subspecies of sockeye salmon, the Formosan landlocked salmon (Oncorhynchus masou formosanus), which is a subspecies of masu salmon, and finally the several populations of landlocked Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar).

(Formosan landlocked salmon)

Landlocked salmon hold almost no differences to their sea run relatives, other than that which speciation provides. Almost always landlocked salmon are far smaller. Considering that salmon are mid level carnivores, whose diet shifts based on age, freshwater prey is just simply less available than marine prey is. Salmon fry survive off of zooplankton, which is available in large amounts in freshwater, but as they grow into juveniles who eat worms and larvae, but by the time they are of age to transition to the marine environment, they rely on larger prey, such as other fish or squid. This is why landlocked salmon are far smaller, and often considered a far blander flavor by fishers.

(Atlantic salmon)

Another difference between the anadromous (migratory) fish and the non migratory is based on the migration pathways themselves. Landlocked salmon species tend to spend their lives within lakes, as they tend to offer more large prey than rivers do, and when after reaching the end of their lifecycle, these fish tend to run rivers connected to lakes, searching for the same stream they were born in. Those salmon of which were transported or by some means found themselves the first generation of landlocked salmon tend to search only for a safe area, other salmon, and higher elevations during their migration. Of those salmon landlocked only in lakes with no connection to other bodies of water there is significant inbreeding, and disease often tends to kill these populations out. It is thought that salmon of which are acclimated to freshwater and intentionally landlocked have a higher chance of surviving after spawning season, as some salmon species possess the ability to survive the spawning, and return to the ocean for another year. This is something that is not fully understood, and currently being researched by many of the fish hatcheries along the Columbia river, major rivers in California, and along the Atlantic. We may understand the relation between the stresses of moving from saltwater to freshwater better in the future!

(kokanee salmon)

To focus on the landlocked variations of Atlantic salmon for a moment, these are individual populations caught in the many lakes or river systems along the Eastern coast of the United States and Canada. These fish in particular are known as some of the best for fishing in the areas they live in. These fish can be found in a range from the Atlantic coast all the way as Western as Lake Eerie in some cases, living in cold water conditions, with growth being the highest at temperatures of 67-77 degrees fahrenheit, and a diet that is mostly made up of insects and small fish, often cannibalizing other young landlocked salmon.

(Atlantic landlocked Salmon)

The kokanee salmon is found along the Pacific coast, in many different lakes from Alaska to California, and as far East as Idaho, and in some rare cases, Nevada. There are also populations within lakes in Japan and Russia, although there is debate on the subject of speciation for these populations. Although some populations of kaknee have been intentionally introduced across lakes and freshwater systems much further East in the United States. Thes fish can get as large as 8-20 inches, and have a handful of morphological differences between them and sockeyes. Kokanee have a higher number of gill rakers, smaller egg size, and a higher efficiency rate in taking in red coloring from food sources to distribute in their eggs. They can live a lifespan around 4 years before spawning and passing away, as these fish do not survive after breeding, and can not interbreed with sockeye salmon.

(kokanee salmon)

The Formosan landlocked salmon, also called the Cherry salmon, is found in Taiwan. Living in the Lishan mountain range, these fish survive in cold water at extremely high altitudes, with an upper temperature limit of 60 degrees. These fish are thought to have become landlocked by the warming of the Dajia River during the last ice age. They live along the many small creeks and backwater streams, with an extremely endangered population with only around 4,000 living at any given time. Cherry salmon are exceptionally small, reaching only 30cm (around a foot) with most around only 6 inches in their adult life. Subsisting off of bugs and small terrestrial life that gets close to the water. These fish survive only around 4 to 5 years before breeding in higher colder waters, and passing away for their fry to replace them.

(Formosan landlocked salmon)

Those are the landlocked Salmon everybody! Have a wonderful day

[xanticore]

𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐇 𝐆𝐈𝐑𝐋

Genre: Slight smut and angst

Warnings: Dirty talk, mentions of alcohol. age gap. Kirk is 35 / you are 22 Strong language. Some violence-

Setting: Mid to late 90s. Reload era. Kirk having his peircing and shit.

Summary: You and Kirk have been on and off with each other for awhile. You guys aren't exactly together but he can still get jealous when another man decides to hit on you. A slight argument breaks out and one thing lead to another, he's making you squirt aggressively.

Rockstar!reader

It was end of the vma's and was time to hit the after party. We were in New York and won music video of the year. It had my heart in so much unnecessary anxiety about if my band was going to win that grand award or not. The overthinking was off my shoulders and all I cared about was getting to those damn parties. Our band was currently in a limo, and the members had bought girls on board. I didn't really care for her as she was touching and caressing my body. I was uninterested.

The only girl I wanted was the lead singer from the new band, RozariE. The first time she caught my attention was when I was back at home having mtv music videos play, as I occupied myself cleaning my guitars. The singer was so mesmerizing and so fucking sexy. She was everything I looked for in a woman. I watched her band perform and the way she wore her stage outfit had me shaking my head. I couldn't handle it...and it honestly pissed me off.

I thought about the first time we met, first time we kissed, fucked..it was all surreal. She was mine but it was hard for me to call her such things as their manager tend to be overprotective of the girls. He had all right to be but fuck. We never properly discussed what we were but the amount of times we would see each other...110% of the time sex was involved mostly-as if we were just friends with benefits and nothing more.

But tonight, I wanted that changed. We finally arrived to the destination and thankfully the girl took the hint. We all got out the limo and walked into the club. Music blasting of the newest pop hits. Every celebrity from the vma's was here, getting high and drunk out their fucking minds. Everyone dancing the night away letting lose and being carefree.

The band eventually went their separate ways and I went to the bar to order myself a quick drink to start my night. I leaned against the bar looking at the crowded area and my eyes landed on her. She had an outfit change and damn it-i wanted to rip that expensive fabric right off. She was wearing a short black dress-silk I assume how the light reflected off it and some classic black leather boots that goes up to her knees.

I was having the time of my life just watching my prey from afar...until someone came in the picture. A random club goer started dancing and touching up on her. I didn't react too soon, but I had my glare on him. Her arms went around his neck and now I was watching them kiss right in front of me.

I nearly broke the glass from squeezing it too hard but eventually let it go before cutting myself up. I finished my drink; leaving the cup behind as I sped walked towards them. Without much thinking, I punched the guy in the face. People were to fucking drunk to notice and it was fine by me. He was knocked out cold and soon felt a sting on my cheek. She slapped me.

"What the hell Kirk!"

I didn't say a word to her but dragged her out to a more private area..also ignoring the fact she was hitting the shit out of me on my arm. I let her go and now we were standing face to face.

"Care to explain what the fuck you were doing?" I nearly raised my voice.

"Uhm!! having fun? That's what 20 year olds do!-"

"Kissing him shouldn't be a fucking option, actually kissing anyone that isn't me isn't an option (name)"

"Excuse me? last time I checked- we aren't fucking together? You shouldn't even think twice of what I do!"

That was my green light. I wanted her to myself. I smashed my lips against hers and felt her recipricate. I pulled her closer and her arms were rightfully around my neck. I pulled away dragging her to a random room and it wasn't all that great. It was a supply closet but all I needed was to do something quick with her.

I locked the closet door and she eagerly pulled me back for that kiss. I touched her all over her body; feeling her soft skin. I wasn't going to fuck her here...no. I wanted to wait until we were back at the hotel. I slipped my hands in her panties and felt her already so wet.

"Sweetheart. You're so wet. I didn't do much but touch your pretty body of yours. Let me take care of you.."

She whimpered softly as i made little circles on her clit. I connected my lips with her neck, sucking and leaving marks on her skin. Soon enough, I inserted my ring and middle finger into her. I wasted no time for her to process as I began to finger her aggressively. She was a whining and moaning mess just how I like it with her.

"Fuck..."

"You like that huh? My princess. You're mines only. You got that sweet thing" I whispered in her ear, biting her lobe afterwards." I had no intention of stopping whatsoever but I knew I was sending her over the edge. "You were thinking about me were you? Say yes.."

"Yes..fuck" She moaned out. Her hands went down to my wrist but I smacked it away. I was in need of wanting to taste her but I knew it'll end up with me ramming my cock into her. "Kirk...baby- i'm gonna cum-"

"Cum baby. Cum all over my fingers like the slut you are." She did just that. Squirting all over my hands and some of my clothes. She was spilling all over the place and I couldn't help but chuckle. I soon stopped, sliding my fingers out to rub her clit again slowly. We ghosted each others lips letting her bite my bottom lip.

"Listen here sweetheart. I want you to come to my hotel tonight because we are not finished. I don't fucking care what your manager says, you understand me?"

"Yes sir."

"You're mine and will always be mine. Don't touch no one else..you hear me? Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes sir..."

"Good girl. Now, let's get you cleaned up and leave this mess for someone else~"

a/n: I seriously hope yall like this, if not, I could always rewrite it of course.

dividers: cr to owners

[from-the-coffee-shop-in-edoras]

9 people you want to know better tag game

Thanks for the tag @hobbitwrangler ! I loved seeing your answers! Finrod/Bëor for the win!

Three ships: Aegnor/Andreth (Silmarillion-ish), Théoden/Ioreth (LOTR; dearly deactivated Brigwife used to talk about this one and I’m still waiting for that fic!); Roman and Geri (Succession 😬)

First ship: Fox Robin Hood and Fox Maid Marian

Last song: Alone by Heart (Ann Wilson, rock goddess♥️♥️♥️)

Last movie: Mad Max Furiosa (review: not bad)

Currently reading: Re-read of Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides

Currently watching: It’s been a long week, so old episodes of Bob Ross: Joy of Painting. So zen.

Currently eating: It’s red plum season!

Currently craving: Chocolate water ice (I think that’s a nonsensical phrase to much of the country/world but I promise you it means something in the American mid-Atlantic)

No pressure tags to @emmanuellececchi @konartiste @eomerofrohan @quillofspirit @frodothefair and anyone else who’d like to share (tagging more than 5 people doesn’t seem to work consistently no matter what fixes I try anyway!)

[sergeifyodorov]

would u do a little analysis of how each team has done so far this season … i trust ur opinions so much

EACH team okay... under the cut bc i am not subjecting the masses to 32 nasty little thots cody edition

Bruins: RIP patrice of course but the bruins are steamrolling as ever... i think that if there is any evidence of the universe simply not caring abt good things it is that the bruins slip and stumble and have some of their best players retired and still manage to put up a 50 win season every year. <- salty leafs fan but ANYHWAY the bruins are easily a Playoff Team. simply "there" 5v5, strong power play, they make their money off finishing (pastrnak you filthy animal) and goaltending (swaymark you filthy animals). they have been trending downwards of late so i'm not entirely sure of like their final standings place but with this kind of head start they're staying up.

Sabres: currently in what we the people call a "decade of darkness." might be a "two decades of darkness" if we're going to be honest. the active player with the most playoff points with the sabres is tyler myers. 7 points. yeah the tall one most famous for having a subreddit that posts the gamescore card every time he's on the bottom of the gamescore card. sabres are really hard to fix because their first real step to contention is "hoping devon levi turns out really good." not promising. bad enough that by selling a piece or two celebrini is in sight. maybe that'll help? a third 1OA?

Red Wings: presenting the mid-season Season Ruining Unforced Error Award early by saying: not that they were going to be as good as their first few games of sniping suggested, but signing patrick kane tanked any realistic hope they have of playoffs. is patrick kane good? he's actually alright. maybe this time the surgery worked. is the team made better by having him on it? it surely isn't! a few REALLY BADLY TIMED dylan larkin based misfortunes have made it go from bad to worse. they were in A2 like a month ago and now they're Out. strengths: finishing. weaknesses: everything else, including morale.

Panthers: okay you've probably clocked this by now but ive been Generally Salty so far and that is bc a) im easily tempted to haterhood and b) currently discussing each team in the atlantic which does nothing to make me less Tempted To Haterhood. that being said the panthers are Good and For Real About It. they can do everything except finish chances, which is fine when the other team has way fewer chances than you and your goalie doesn't let any of them in. fuck ALLL the way off. place your bets on these guys having a deep playoff run. cross your fingers for them not having a deep playoff run i can't stand chuckyposting again it's RAN ITS COURSE. (also: machuk is probably still injured and absolutely Not doing as well as he did the last few seasons. maybe because he's just not that kind of guy but it's probably at least mostly the broken chest thing)

Canadiens: they are bad EXCEPT when it comes to overtime + the shootout. also much like the sabres they're going nowhere fast. i expect at least one of their goalies to be gone at the deadline... furthermore i think ppl who are ragging on slaf's slow development are simply expecting all 1OAs to be like an auston or a connor type (pick your connor) where they come in and immediately adapt -- slaf rings very reminiscent of quinton byfield to me, who was picked 2OA in 2020 and is only now starting to break out. give him time he's a baby...

Senators: despite how much literally everyone talks up all their players constantly, they are not good either. like the sabres or the habs... atlantic is 4 teams in the genuine hunt, 3 teams who suck and have sucked forever and will suck forevermore, and the red wings who haven't made up their minds yet. the sens actually Do have a singular Biggest Problem though and that's goaltending, but they're not a good enough team otherwise that getting a quality goaltender is going to make them playoffs worthy, especially not in the very short (this-season) run.

Lightning: the lightning are weird to me because like i think they're still making up their mind as A People what they want to do. kucherov is the best player in the league rn, this is stamkos' ufa season and he hasn't been offered an extension, vasilevskiy is back and vasying his levskiy... i fully believe they have the capability of getting a playoff spot, maybe even A3 if they want. we've all seen them in the playoffs, we know how they can turn ~It~ on at will. as always they're a deeply mid 5v5 team powered by very strong special teams... the goaltending numbers say goaltending is shit but they've been playing in front of the genuinely unplayable jonas johansson most of the season so i think it'll be fine.

Maple Leafs: as the team ive watched the moast i can talk about these guys for evar so for all of our sanities i will be brief: Auston Matthews, Baby, Look At Him, That's Auston, Auston Motherfucking "Sexy Mustached Bitch" Matthews!!!!!!! powered by an extremely strong power play and very good offence, and defence and goaltending that is held together by Morgan Rielly and a dream. possibly the only reason they're in a playoff spot is the fact that martin jones didn't get claimed on waivers three months ago and i am being dead serious about that. for some reason they're at their best when they're down by two. they do really need both their #1 goalie to come back from injury and to make a splash for a genuine nhl-calibre defenceman, but they're stubbornly determined to win games even through nasty flu.

Hurricanes: their usual selves -- analytics darlings, can't buy a goal. this year they can't buy a save either -- Freddie is out with a medical condition, Raanta is straight up not good, and Kochetkov is... well, he's Kochetkov. they're not far out of a spot but they'll need a hot hand if they want to get comfy... which i don't expect, frankly. they're good enough to make the playoffs, but they're not really a team that goes on heaters, so they'll be bubble until the end.

Blue Jackets: genuinely not sure they know what they're doing like... okay. from an outside pov they are obviously Tanking. they're bad in every way that matters except for finishing and the standings show it. but also like... they're at the point in their development cycle where they shouldn't be tanking... or at least are on the verge of Shouldn't Be Tanking. and again, because they don't know what they're doing, they hired mike babcock for this... if they know what they're doing they'll toss kekalainen as soon as they can and, following this year's draft, start Fighting. but let's be real i doubt that. adam fantilli it's your time to shine... sorry sweetheart!

Devils: see Hurricanes. Great on paper, can't buy a save. They've obviously been stunted by Timo, J'accuse, and Nico all being injured at various points, but goaltending is their biggest and most solvable problem. Unlike the Hurricanes, though, the Devils are fully capable of going on a heater, so the gap between them and WC2 isn't as big as it looks (probably.) Luke Hughes is going to be something special.

Rangers: Looks like Lafreniere is finally getting his feet under him -- but the Rangers have always been far more about getting old, known players to get a second wind with them than they've been about prospect development, and Quick and Wheeler are both showing this pretty definitively. Another one of those teams that's run by special teams and finishing/goaltending. Easy playoff spot, likely solid run. Nothing too interesting here.

Islanders: On the other hand, the Isles are interesting because... like... how did they get There? They have a negative goal differential, for heaven's sake! Their special teams are godawful, their defence is a sieve, they blow leads like that's what actually gets you points in this league, and they're somehow second in the Metropolitan??????? Is it Horvat? Barzal? Sorokin? (It's probably Sorokin.) They'll make the playoffs but i doubt they'll succeed in them.

Flyers: This one's also weird. They have the power play and offence of a peewee team in the big leagues, but have become defensively Actually Super Competent and are somehow good because of this? I'm going to theorize -- because you've asked me to but also because I really want to -- that this is due, at least in part, to somewhat of an inverse Kane-on-the-Red-Wings effect from their offseason removal of Provorov and DeAngelo; without them, the team is now not only better defensively on paper but also better as a team in the locker room. They're [uncle voice] playing with heart now! I doubt they're a real contender, but I think they might actually make playoffs.

Penguins: ...this one's also weird. They're good on paper. Like, really good on paper? Defensively "just okay" but offensively great, goaltending is fantastic, special teams are shutdown. They just can't buy a goal and they can't buy a good sequence.

Capitals: This one's weird, too, but in the opposite way -- aside from the power-play, the Caps are actually godawful on paper, especially when it comes to finishing (because when Ovechkin takes such a high percentage of your shots but he isn't scoring, your team REALLY suffers) but somehow they've managed to pinpoint sequencing luck (win close, lose ugly) and are somehow in WC1. Do I think they'll make the playoffs? Absolutely not -- if either the Devils or Canes step up, the Caps are the odd man out -- but it might be fun to see them try. Or hell, I hope they win-close-lose-ugly their way to a goddamn Cup final. Would be funny as fuck for Ovi's second-longest ever playoff run to come at the fresh young age of thirty-eight. Dude looks ragged out there. I'm going to shut up now before I start talking about finding him sexy

Coyotes: Simple on paper: bad at running play, good goaltending and finishing. Essentially what the Canucks are doing at a smaller scale. The Leafs should never have let Kerfoot walk and I mean that unironically. Okay, anyway, the Yotes are a bubble team and won't make higher than WC1 because of the logjam at the top of the Central, but holy fuck do I want them to make WC1 (or a playoff spot in general.) People ask "how can we grow the game" a lot, and when it comes to what the NHL can do directly, the number one biggest thing is win in small markets. Arizona has already created one of the sports' biggest stars -- Auston! -- and it's an absolutely massive TV market and a potential hotbed of new fans and new, great players. Arizona making a playoff spot -- or even better, going on a run -- would be amazing for the NHL. And it would be funny. And I would like that.

Blackhawks: shoutout to dave !!! dave who works for the hawks!!! anyway the hawks are very obviously tanking and good at it. Their only real point of interest is their Sacred Child, and holy fuck is their Sacred Child going to absolutely fucking smash it when he's given a team that's not entirely made up of scrubs. i think his analytics, especially his defensive numbers, are, like, fine? but accounting for his leverage (all situations, especially the difficult ones), his teammates (his best linemate is Anthony Beauvillier, and tito... is a third liner), and the fact that he's all of eighteen, he's definitely on track to be a Real Force. i kinda love him... okay moving on.

Avalanche: All-over good: finishing their biggest obvious strength, but hockeywise they don't have any real weaknesses... although there is some serious Drama brewing in that locker room and i think it might just be getting started. with landeskog gone for at least until the end of this year (and possibly forever) and ej a sabre, there is absolutely no one in there capable of actually emotionally running a team: makar lacking in a leader's magnetism, rantanen an idiot, toews and mackinnon far too high-strung and competitive, and no one else with seniority. they're a good enough team that it's not really affecting them right now, but ... i don't know, i can kind of feel it coming. They'll make the playoffs, but when the pressure is on they'll either step up or completely fall apart.

Stars: See above: all-over good, but saving their biggest obvious weakness. I think most of this is spurred by Otter being out -- Wedgewood is a serviceable backup goaltender, but obviously not capable of being a real starter, and the team is stuttering because of it. I doubt it'll be for long or too much difficulty (they're a good defensive team, so it's not going to affect them a lot, but they might lose a game or two they might have won with Otter, especially if he's out for a while), but it's going to keep them from taking a step on top of the Central. Easy playoff team, probable contender.

Wild: They are bad! Penalty kill is their worst weakness, but they're not great in goal either and the combination is kicking their ass. As much as I respect how well they've done with that giant cap-space penalty from the Parise/Suter buyouts all those years ago, it's... kind of time to throw in the towel. Get Flower those final few wins, because by god are they devoid of much other success. Right at the tail of a competitive arc. RIP. Tank incoming.

Predators: Weirdly good, even though Saros hasn't been his usual self? O'Reilly esp has been an absolutely fantastic addition for the team over the offseason. No huge strengths, no significant weaknesses. Not an amazing offensive team, but it's Nashville so they were never going to be -- the place practically breeds defensive forwards and all-around dmen. I don't expect they'll seriously contend, but they'll make the playoffs (unless someone offers the farm for Saros).

Blues: I genuinely think so little about the Blues .... that whole thing with Jordan Kyrou has been the most I've thought about them for a bit. That and the fact that only three of their games haven't been decided by the first goal? They're not good and they're really boring. Yeehaw.

Jets: THE JETS let's get JUICY. Jets' biggest strengths by far are a) 5v5 defence and b) finishing/goaltending. Even with Kyle Connor out they're sniping and Hellebuyck and Brossoit are both absolutely on it. The Jets have always seemed to have this problem where on paper (take a shot every time I've written "on paper" in this post if you want to die of alcohol poisoning) they seem fantastic, then January onwards they absolutely plummet. And it's not January yet, so that might still happen, but that kind of thing tends to happen because of a dramatic morale shift, and now that Lowry's captain and Wheeler's left for New York... that might not happen? They've banked enough points that unless they're historically bad from here on out they're still a playoff team. If they keep up what they have going so far, they're a contender, but if it's the same Winnipeg with the same problems, then they're not.

Ducks: Taking a step in the right direction with Carlsson and Mintyukov, but still bad! I really hope Carlsson recovers well, he seems like a sweet boy. Also: what on Earth are they doing with Zegras. Is he a defenceman now? Are they making him play defence? Are he and Dixie D'Amelio still dating? I have many questions. I just hope whichever high draft pick they get is an idiot. I feel like they need another dumbass baby on the team.

Flames: The Flames also appear to have no idea what's going on. And frankly, neither do I! They're too good to be obviously tanking, but not near good enough to be a bubble team. They're definitely reluctant to sell, but their best hope to win soon absolutely should be selling. They have one of the worst contracts in the league on their payroll (wow... I hope the guy in charge of my favourite team didn't sign that!) and a bunch of really solid late-round picks and prospects cutting their teeth on the NHL. In short: they aren't going to make the playoffs and should be leaning into that, but they don't seem to have realized this yet.

Oilers: For the sake of not gloating, I'm going to sum this one up with a Marek quote: If you have a goalie, it's 70% of your team. If you don't, it's 100%. They've had finishing trouble, but considering they absolutely run the show at 5v5 AND special teams (they put nearly SIXTY SHOTS on Vasilevskiy the other day) a little finishing shouldn't be quite so dangerous if they didn't have two sieves minding the net. McDavid might hit 150 again and the Oil might still miss the playoffs. If they get in, they're going far, but at this point it'll be tough as fuck to make it in.

Kings: Average penalty kill. No other weaknesses. Kopitar 4 Selke.

Sharks: This is an absolutely glorious tankjob. No other way to put it. This is the pinnacle of tank design. This is the Wayne Gretzky of tankjobs. This is the Casablanca of tankjobs. This is the Saturn V of tankjobs. Nothing has been so beautifully engineered to suck since Sir James Dyson patented his vacuum or Nancy Reagan walked the earth. It's beautiful. It's gorgeous. I am in awe. They deserve Celebrini purely because of how flawless the tank is. I don't care if he has a warm undertone and would look pink in that fantastic teal. The boy needs San Jose.

Kraken: Good defensively at 5v5, bad pretty much everywhere else. I'm going to be honest with you all, last year was kind of a flash in the pan -- Seattle isn't great and they're neither headed upwards nor downwards. Not a bubble team, probably won't pick top ten. They haven't decided whether or not to build up or tank. Beyond the fantastic aesthetics and four-unranked-lines shtick, they don't really have a whole lot of competitive mojo: no star forwards, no goaltending. Wholeheartedly mid.

Canucks: oH BABY!!!!! The 23-24 Canucks made us all learn what PDO is. The 23-24 Canucks are first in the motherfucking league after being one spot out of being in the Bedard lottery. The 23-24 Canucks are on track to have the best shooting and saving percentage in league history. The 23-24 Canucks' leading goalscorer is Brock Boeser, the guy they've almost traded practically every year since they drafted him. The 23-24 Canucks started the season by naming the Wettest Little Man On The Planet captain and they haven't looked back since. I think they're an easy lock for a playoff spot -- but within the playoffs, do I know what they're going to do? I absolutely do not. They could PDO their way to a Cup or they could bow out in four games flat. Either is equally likely. They have thoroughly embraced Good Chaos. Quinn Hughes might win the Hart. Everything's coming up Vancouver.

Golden Knights: Not as good as they were last year. Ultimately still pretty good. Easy playoff spot. Definite contender. Jack Eichel is better than ever and I love him for it, the dickhead.

[kaiandels]

Meddle About (e.w x reader)

🚬

┊┊┊┊ ➶ ❁۪ ｡˚ ✧

warning: SMUT (MDNI), severe language, homophobia, getting high, use of the d-slur (only 2 times) and slüt shaming. This is very rough so read at your own risk.

Semi-Proofread

p.s: yes, this is inspired by “Meddle About” by Chase Atlantic.

┊┊┊┊ ➶ ❁۪ ｡˚ ✧

It was fucking smelly. The air that surrounded the bar smelled like sex, alcohol, and weed. But what do you expect from a place like this right?

You dressed up. You were with your friends and you were having the time of your life. You had just gotten broken up with, and you wanted to have fun instead of crying the shit out of your eyes in the darkest corner of your room. You won’t be vulnerable, not this time atleast. You wanted to look hot, and you wanted to get lucky. You were just waiting for the right hot guy that would get you on your fucking knees. But ofcourse, you just had to get the creepy ones.

“Hey pretty lady.” A man around his mid 20s hollered at you. Standing close to you as you were sat in the front-bar, waiting for your drink. You looked at him and smiled, clearly not interested. He wasn’t your type, he looked high and busted as shit. “What is a fine woman doing here all alone?” The man said leaning against the counter, looking at you closely. He furrowed his eyebrows, not getting the attention he wanted. “Look, i’m just here for a fun time. Yeah? Come on dance with me.” He said nudging your shoulder as you pulled your hands away. “No thank you.” You said nonchalantly. “Look, you’re lucky enough that i’m hitting on you right now. You came here looking like a slut and you don’t expect to get hit on? Come on now.” He laughed putting a hand on your waist, a tight grip that you couldn’t get yourself out of. You resisted, screaming as you tried to pull away from his touch.

Then suddenly, you felt the firm grip fade away. The absence leaving you shocked as you looked down seeing the man on the floor, caressing his head as he got hit on the face. You looked beside you as you saw a very attractive young woman. Her eyebrows furrowed, her fists clenched, and strands of her auburn-hair lost on her face. “She said no. Leave her the fuck alone, man.” The auburn-haired girl spoke. Venom laced with her tone as she glared at the guy ass-flat on the floor. “Who the fuck are you?” The man stood up, walking face-to-face with the auburn-haired girl. You were terrified, but really amused at how the girl didn’t even flinch when he moved closer to her. “Don’t fucking even move an inch close to my woman ever again.” The girl said grabbing your arm, tempting to walk out. “WHAT ARE YOU? SOME DYKE?” The man screamed. You gulped as you felt the girl stop in her tracks, turning around and rushing to the man. Pointing her fingers at him. “The fuck did you just say?” Bouncers immediately rushed to the scene, pulling off the woman who was beating up the poor man.

“Come. The name’s Ellie.” Ellie smiled at you as she grabbed your hand, leading you outside of the bar. The cold air hit you face as Ellie slammed the door open, clearly pissed with her current encounter. “I’m sorry you had to see that. I saw you from afar and you were clearly so uncomfortable.” The light shined on her face, you observed every single detail she had. Her eyebrows slit, her mouth a little red and plump because of the punches thrown, and her freckles that were placed neatly against her cheeks. “Thank you.” You said weakly, your body still in shock from the attempted assault. “I could leave you alone right now. But I really don’t want to. You seem scarred.” Ellie spoke, hesitation evident as she was rubbing her nape. Embarassed of the way she introduced herself to you.

“Please stay just for a bit.” You smiled, sitting at the curb in front of the bar. “Sure.” Ellie said sitting beside you. You both sat in silence a bit. Relaxing as the cold air blew in your direction. You heard the noises of shuffling. You looked beside you as you saw Ellie placed a cigar between her lips, lighting it up as she took a long drag. “Here, this will make it better.” She said taking the cigar out of her lips and passing it over to you. “Thanks” You said taking it out of her hands, taking an exaggerated drag yourself. For what it’s worth, it did really help though. “This tastes fucking amazing.” You commented, earning a laugh from Ellie. “I mean cigars does taste amazing especially when you’re stressed.” You nodded. Scootching closer to Ellie, “You just called me your woman earlier.” You said as Ellie’s eyes widened. “Yeah, I thought he would stop if I told him that we were together. But he just took that chance to be homophobic.” Ellie clicked her tongue. “Fucking bigots.” You laughed as you gave her the cigar, “Now it’s your turn.” You huffed. “I have something better?” Ellie leaned back, her hands supporting her from behind as she swayed her head over to your direction. You raised your eyebrows. “What’s that?”

“Follow me.” Ellie stood up enthusiastically. Clearly excited. “How do I know that you’re not some human-trafficker?” You spoke, clearly doubtful if you should really trust a woman that you had just met 30 minutes ago. “I guess you’ll never know.” Ellie smirked, eventually stopping as she realized that you took that seriously. “Oh- God no. I’m not don’t fucking worry. Here.” Ellie said throwing you a bag of rolled weed that came out of her car. Your eyes widened. “Oh, this shit’s good.” You smirked as Ellie leaned at the trunk of her car. “I know.” Ellie said taking a roll for herself.

“Here” she said lighting yours with her own. “So, what brings you here? Not that i’m trying to pry.” Ellie mumbled, holding eye-contact with you as she took a long drag of the weed. You smiled as you took a drag yourself. “I just got broken up with. Wanted to have some fun. You?” You stated. Putting on a facade that you weren’t negatively affected by the circumstances. “If i’m being completely transparent.. Tryna fuck. You know how it is.” Ellie chuckled. You froze, feeling the heat raise from your body to your cheeks. “Uh-oh. That got you fucked up didn’t it?” Ellie asked, walking closer to you. Stopping with only an inch apart from you two. “Oh please” You uttered sarcastically, the rolled cannabis still in between your lips. Ellie laughed as she threw her rolled goods on the ground and stomped on it. You looked at her with confusion. You gasped as her two fingers got in between the paper, pulling it out of your lips and now putting it in between hers. “It tastes a lot better with your lipstick on it.” Ellie said. “You know what tastes a lot better?” You giggled. Slowly wrapping your arms around her neck. “Yeah? What?” Ellie inhaled, taking a long drag once again. You bit your lip, feeling Ellie’s hands snake around your waist. You leaned closer, whispering in Ellie’s ear. “Me” you stated, kissing Ellie’s ears. Ellie scoffed as she pulled you out of her neck as she was now face to face with you. “Open your mouth.” Ellie ordered, you complied. Your mouth shaped in to an ‘O’. Ellie leaned closer, her lips grazing yours as she blew the smoke in to your mouth. You moaned as you inhaled all the smoke, huffing it out once done.

“Here’s what we’re gonna do. I’m gonna take you back to my house so we can meddle about. That sounds good?” Ellie suggested, earning an eager nod from you. “Get in” Ellie said, patting your ass. You swiftly walked to her car and got in within a millisecond. Ellie laughed as she followed.

After a few minutes later, you both had arrived. You squeeled as Ellie carried you. You both made out in the process while Ellie tried to blindly get the door unlocked. Not making any time to pull away as your tongue felt so good against hers. A few seconds passed by and you both were finally in the apartment. “Fuck, i’ll take you right here right now.” Ellie groaned as she slammed you against the door. Your faced mushed between the wooden surface. You felt Ellie rip your dress and underwear off, hearing her mutter curses under her breath. “Arch your back, pretty.” You complied, earning a satisfied groan from her. “That’s my fucking girl.” Ellie laughed as her mouth met with your dripping cunt. You both moaned, feeling the effects of the cannabis as you both felt like you were floating and fucking surreal. It made your senses much more conscious, and you both loved it.

You moaned feeling Ellie’s tongue flick inside you, her taking you from behind made you feral. “Tastes so fucking good.” Ellie growled, giving your ass a slap. “Fuck yes, eat it just like that.” You moaned, pushing yourself near her mouth. Grinding yourself on to her face as you felt her nose graze your clit. Ellie reached around, giving you another one of her rolled goods. “Light it up baby. Get yourself high while I fuck you.” You reached for the lighter on the shelf near her door. After you lit it up, you shakily put it in between your mouth. Moaning as you felt Ellie lap up your juices. “Oh fuck” Ellie babbled, completely high of the cannabis and your juices. You moaned, inhaling the smoke that heightened your senses. Sending you over to the edge. “M’ gonna fuck you so good.” You heard Ellie muttered as she slipped a finger in. You exhaled the smoke, grinding yourself harder on to Ellie’s face. “Fuck meeee.. please fuck me.” You whined feeling Ellie’s pace intensify. “Yeah? You want me to fuck you baby?” Ellie mumbled, shaking her head as her way to scatter your juices around her mouth.

“Fuck! Ellie! Just like that please.” You screamed, your voice extremely hoarse. You gasped as you felt Ellie carry you, bringing you over to her bedroom. The rolled cannabis still in between your fingers. “Fuck! What the fuck?!” You screamed as Ellie threw you on to her bed. She laughed as she towered over you. “Give me that.” She said forcefully taking the cannabis off your hands, “Say red if you want me to stop.” Ellie ordered as she began to work on your cunt, dragging the tip of the cannabis on your thighs, burning your skin in the process. “Fuck!” You screamed at the sensation of pain and pleasure, you gripped at her sheets. The way your senses heightened did not help.

Ellie inserted another digit, completely stretching you out as she began to write her name on your thighs with the rolled Cannabis. You looked down seeing the words “Ellie Williams” in a form of a scar. “Fuck, you’re wild.” You breathed, moaning as you saw Ellie’s red puffy eyes stare at you. “Only for you baby.” Ellie said as she stood up, unbuckling her belt along with her pants. Your eyes widened as you saw the strap on, perfectly strapped around her waist. “Like it?” Ellie asked as she towered over you once again. “You really wanted some tonight, didn’t you?” You licked your lips as you looked back at Ellie, hissing as you felt the cannabis burn your waist. “Fuck!” You moaned as your head leaned back on Ellie’s pillows.

Ellie hummed as she softly grazed the tip of her dick against your slit. “Fuck you’re wet. It’s because of the pain isn’t it? Fucking slut.” Ellie scoffed as your juices coated her dick. “Oh please just- please…” You whined as you squirmed under her. Ellie rolled her eyes as she pushed the cannabis against your arms. “Shut the fuck up and wait patiently like the good girl you’re supposed to be.” You gulped. This was going to be a long night.

“Actually” Ellie paused, studying your already fucked-out face. “Tell me how you want me to fuck you.” Ellie ordered, slowly dragging the tip of the cannabis in between your breast and down to your belly. “I want you to fuck me hard, rough… fucking disrespect me Ellie disrespe- FUCK” You screamed as you felt Ellie pound inside you, the acceleration of her thrusts completely animalistic. “Fuck, you hear those sounds? That’s how much of a fucking whore you are.” Ellie groaned as she shoved the Cannabis near your lips. “Take a hit for me again baby, come on. I want you to act all fucking stupid for me.” You took a long puff, you started sobbing in pleasure as Ellie was abusing your spot. Showing no remorse within her expressions. “Fu-huck… Ellie please slow down!!” You screamed as you reached for her back, leaving your own scars for her to remember.

Ellie shoved further inside you, completely showing her arrogance as she further beaten up your cunt. The sloppy noises growing louder. “Say the word then. Come on. Say it.” Ellie ordered, earning a slap on your face. Interrupting your long puff. “OH FUCK! Oh pleasepleaseplease I can’t take it… IcantIcantIcant.” Your voice was hoarse, it was completely shaky. You weren’t given any chance to breathe. It’s getting hard for you to breathe out. “Just scream it out baby. It’ll be over soon.” Ellie said, her thrusts weren’t changing any rhythm. She was fucking talented. She fucked better than any man you have ever been with.

“Uh…Ho- fuck!” You babbled as you felt her deep inside you. The rolled goods falling from your lips, hitting your skin in the process as it landed on your breasts. Ellie chuckled, completely high and fucked out as she wasn’t able to comprehend or form any sentences. “You’re such a fucking slut, taking this dick like a fucking champ.” Ellie huffed as she slowed down, now focusing on how hard she fucks it in to you.

“I’m gonna… oh my god!” You muttered as you felt Ellie’s lips cup your breast. Her mouth swirling around your sensitive bud as she continued to thrust her way in to you. “Don’t fucking cum until I tell you to.” You gulped. “B-but please… i’m close. Ellie i’m so close…” you begged. “Pathetic. You’re gonna fucking take it or i’ll stop.” Ellie groaned as she gave your ass a hard slap. Leaving her hand mark for you to remember it the day after.

Ellie pulled out, the absence leaving you groaning in frustration. Ellie leaned back on the headboard as she grabbed the cannabis from your breast. “Work for it. Ride this dick.” Ellie looked at you, laughing as you wobbly crawled on to her lap. You positioned yourself as you looked at Ellie, taking a long exaggerated drag. You placed yourself on to the strap as you let your cunt slowly devour the whole entire shaft. “Fuuuckkk..” You whined as you felt yourself bouncing. “S-so good..” Your eyes rolled to the back of your head as Ellie watched you in awe. Completely fucked out.

You started to grind on her, Ellie moaning as the strap grazed on her clit. “Fuck this. Stay still.” You complied as Ellie put out the rolled good and leaving it on her night stand. Ellie held a firm tight grip on your hips, and starting to thrust upward. Fucking up in to you. “FUCK! Ellieee… ELLIE FUCK!” You moaned her name as Ellie’s bed started to creak. The headboard banging on the wall, introducing Ellie to her neighbors. “That’s right. Fuck- say my name.” Ellie groaned as she felt like she was coming undone.

“Scream. ‘Ellie’s so good’. Come on. Scream.” Ellie’s laughter and moans mixed as she was getting off on your moans. “E-ellie’s s-so good!” You screamed as you felt your legs shake and Ellie’s hips stuttering. “Cum with me, alright?” You nodded as you and Ellie’s hips start to move in unison. “Fuck!” You both cursed as your high washed the both of you out. Ellie fell on top of you panting as your vision went black.

The night ended with you and Ellie next to eachother. In the warmth of eachother’s embrace. You never expected the night to end this way, you expected to be in bed with a handsome man right now. But fuck no. You got one even better, you always knew you liked women. And what happened today just proved that right.

The morning after came, you groaned as you felt the pain on your thighs. Seeing Ellie’s faded name on your skin. You groaned as you rubbed your eyes, seeing the empty spot next to you. You laughed, thinking that it’s really weird for Ellie to leave a stranger in her own home. You looked over to the side seeing a note and on top of that was the used lit out cannabis from last night.

Off to work. Had a fun night. See you when I see you Ma. Here’s my number: xxxx-xxx-xxxx ❤️

- the dyke you fucked yesterday

┊┊┊┊ ➶ ❁۪ ｡˚ ✧

┊┊┊┊ ➶ ❁۪ ｡˚ ✧

Special tags: @ximtiredx and @blizsebusd 🫶🏻

[cariantha]

A Chance Encounter (2/3)

Book: Open Heart (Pre-Series) Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Dr. Sawyer Brooks) Rating: Teen Warning: Implied sexual activity Category: Fluff Word count: 3.3K Series Summary: Ten years before meeting at Edenbrook, Ethan and Sawyer have a chance encounter during spring break.

A/N: Artwork by the incredible @/artbyainna on Instagram.

Chapter Summary: Knowing the odds of ever seeing each other again, Ethan and Sawyer throw caution to the wind and spend a magical night together.

Part One

Part Two: The Hook-Up

January 2023 - Miami, Florida

“And I’m beginning to realize…” Ethan paused, reaching for Sawyer’s wine glass and placing it along with his own on the patio table behind him, “There are some things that are worth any risk.” 

Though it was winter, the cooler Miami temperature was as comfortable as a summer night in Boston. But Ethan wasn’t thinking about home. With the moonlit backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, a scene from his past began to play out before him. 

When he turned back to Sawyer, he met her hopeful eyes. Reflecting the bright, silver moonlight, they looked just like sea glass.

It had been six months since the mystery woman he met a decade ago in East Hampton, New York found her way back into his life. If Sawyer had any memory of those days at the beach, she had kept it tucked away. When her shaky hand cupped his dark stubbled cheek, Ethan was suddenly desperate to remind her. “Sawyer, I…” 

“I know,” she said softly, never breaking their intense gaze. 

Immense relief coursed through him as he closed his eyes and leaned into her caressing touch. With that long-awaited admission, Ethan’s remaining reservations were drowned out by overwhelming lust for the woman he had dreamt of for years. When his eyes opened again, the dam built of steadfast resolve finally broke.

In an instant, she was finally - after all this time - back in his arms. His mouth covered hers in an intense kiss. He held his lips to hers for many heartbeats, needing to make up for lost time. 

“Dr. Ramsey, you’re–”

“Ethan,” he insisted. There was no need for formality anymore. They no longer had to pretend they were only ever co-workers. Their pact of anonymity became null and void the day Sawyer walked through the doors of Edenbrook Hospital.

Time was a blur as a frenzy of hands and mouths allowed their bodies to become reacquainted. After a clumsy, lip-locked dance across the balcony, Ethan fell back into a cushioned patio chair. Sawyer lowered herself onto his lap and began slowly rocking her hips against his, matching the lapping rhythm of the shore. 

“Sawyer, I’ve never done anything like this. Ever. This is—” He needed her to know he would never take advantage of his position of authority. He would never take advantage of her in any capacity. Hell, it’s why he had kept this memory to himself to begin with. But he could no longer deny their history. Their attraction. Their connection. 

Sawyer stopped him mid-sentence, placing her hand over his pounding heart. She then took his hand and held it between the valley of her breasts, and he completely forgot what he was going to say. Instead, he sighed contentedly. “You… feel amazing.” 

His blonde temptation smiled coyly. “Wait ‘til you feel the rest of me.”

Her confusing words and a perfectly timed chilly gust of ocean breeze released him from her spell. What does she mean by that? Ethan quickly replayed the last few minutes, realizing he may have made an erroneous assumption. When Sawyer said “I know” was she referring to their past or acknowledging their current and undeniable attraction to one another? The jolting thought made him face the harsh realities of their situation yet again. She was an intern. He was her boss. This can’t happen no matter their history.

March 2012 - East Hampton, New York

The day after her best friend's accident, Christian headed into the big city with her employer on official nanny duty. Having stayed behind, Sawyer took the opportunity to walk to town and explore the local shops and eateries. She enjoyed window shopping at high-end stores catering to wealthy vacationers and locals. But wearing cut-off jean shorts, a tank top, and flip-flop sandals, she didn’t dare go inside fearing a “Pretty Woman” scene the moment a salesperson sized her up. 

Deciding it was time for a morning pick-me-up, Sawyer made her way to the crowded Starbucks on the corner. She was about to follow a couple of hoity-toity customers inside when a row of quaint boutiques across the street caught her eye, a little coffee shop nestled between them. She looked both ways before dashing across the bustling thoroughfare, eager to try something different.

The bell on the door rang as she opened it, drawing the attention of several patrons. As Sawyer surveyed the charming and seemingly popular cafe, her face lit up when she saw Ethan at the back of the order line. 

Also excited by the surprise meeting, Ethan let the older woman behind him go first so he could stand next to Sawyer in line.

“I didn't take you for a coffee guy," she greeted.

"I'm a med student, remember? We only function on coffee or energy drinks. I prefer coffee."

“And why this place over that one?” she wondered, tilting her head toward the large bay window. The siren in the middle of the familiar green logo smiled back at them.

“In my experience, local coffee shops have better quality coffee. And they tend to be much quieter. There’s a lesser-known place close to campus where I like to go to study. The owner is from Hawaii and occasionally serves an amazing Kona.”

“In other words, you’re a coffee snob,” she poked fun.

Ethan shrugged unoffended.

The barista took their orders when they reached the counter. “Are these together?”  

“Yes,” they both answered at the same time. 

“Let me,” Sawyer turned to Ethan. “I owe you one for your help yesterday.” 

But Ethan wouldn’t have it. “It’s on me,” he overruled, handing his debit card to the barista.  

Moving out of the way for the next customer, Sawyer thanked him for the coffee. “That was sweet. But I still owe you. I might just have to give you one of those private surf lessons for free," she smiled coyly.

Clearing his throat, "Speaking of… how's the leg?" 

"It's bruised and tender,” she shifted her body to show him. “I found some of that same ointment at the house and rebandaged the big cut this morning."

Ethan nodded satisfied.

Sipping from their to-go cups, they stepped out of the small eatery together. Hoping to extend their time together with a walk home, Ethan asked which direction she was headed. 

Looking down the street, she answered, “I was going to take this way around. I wanted to check out a few more of the sights.”

“Care for some company?” Ethan asked hopefully.

Sawyer couldn’t help the smile that spread across her face when she turned her head to respond. “I’d love some.”

Strolling through the village-like setting, they chatted about all sorts of things, especially medical school. With a big decision to make soon, Sawyer wanted to know more about the application process, Ethan’s favorite classes, and his plans after graduation.

“Wait, seriously? I’ve heard of Dr. Banerji! I recently read one of his case studies for my Viruses and Application for Biological Systems class. Wow, I hope things work out and you get the chance to work with him,” Sawyer commented with sincerity.

Spotting a gift shop with tacky tchotchkes and souvenirs, she tugged on his arm to follow her inside. They browsed the displays, making a game of who could find the most ridiculous item. Ethan was determined to outdo himself every time simply to hear her lovely, melodic laughter. He found her minutes later flipping through a rack of novelty t-shirts. Ethan mindlessly flicked through shirts on the opposite side. He found it endearing how she giggled at the silly ones, and more than once their eyes met over the clothing rack, eliciting shy smiles.

When they exited the store, Sawyer handed him a bag. “Here.”

“What’s this?” he furrowed his brow in question.

“Open it,” she instructed.

Ethan pulled a white t-shirt from the bag. The red print said “LIFEGUARD,” and below the cross symbol it said “The Hamptons.” 

“I know it’s cheesy, but I owe you a new shirt and you did come to my rescue,” she explained. 

With a nod of appreciation, “Thanks. You didn’t need to do this,” he said, tucking the shirt back into the bag. 

As they trekked through the neighborhood, their conversation continued to flow effortlessly, like they could share anything and everything without hesitation. Sawyer made him smile often with her carefree playfulness and gentle teasing. Not an easy feat if you ask those who knew him well. Likewise, Ethan made her laugh, even snort a few times, with his dry humor and quick wit. They walked just inches apart, their hands brushing together so many times it no longer felt accidental. 

It felt like they had been walking and talking for hours, but it all came to an end too soon when they reached his driveway.

“Thanks for the coffee and company.” She looked nervously at her feet before continuing, “It sucks that you’re leaving tomorrow. Maybe we can–”

"Hey! Is that you, Gidge?” Tobias interrupted as he came outside to unload party supplies from his Jeep. “I see you've met Moondoggie here.”

"What the hell are you talking about, Carrick?" Ethan glared at him. 

"It's from an old movie," Sawyer helped to explain.

"Gigde, we're throwing a beach bash later tonight–”

“We are?” Ethan interrupted with a vexed look on his face. 

“You and your friend should come," Tobias continued, ignoring his roommate.

"We'd love to come to your orgy… I mean luau, Kahuna," she played along. 

Ethan just looked between the two of them, the movie references completely lost on him. 

Tobias elbowed him playfully, "I like this one, man.”

Rolling her eyes, Sawyer turned back to Ethan, “Later then?"

Ethan nodded and put his hand up to say goodbye as she continued down the road.

The back of the Jeep was stockpiled with several cases of beer and brown paper bags with various assortments of liquor bottles. “Jesus Christ. How many people did you invite over?” Ethan groaned.

Shrugging, Tobias responded, “Who was counting?” 

Ethan jumped when he felt fingers slide into his back pocket. “What the fuck are you doing?” he asked, swatting his annoying friend's hand away. 

Tobias patted Ethan’s ass where he deposited a strip of square foil-wrapped packets. “Just making sure you’re prepared for later.” 

🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊

Christian had to put the kids to sleep before going off the clock for the night. By the time Sawyer and her best friend finally made their way next door, the party was in full swing.

As the ladies made their way to the kitchen for drinks, Sawyer’s eyes swept each room they passed, hoping to spot a familiar face. Every room was crowded with college-age partiers, most of whom looked like snobby rich kids. Guys wearing polo shirts and plaid shorts, and who sported expensive watches, mingled with women wearing tight, short dresses, with blown-out hair and manicured nails. Sawyer wasn’t sure if they’d been invited to a spring break party or a country club clambake.

“Gidge! You made it,” Tobias greeted, throwing an arm around her shoulder as he squeezed in between the two friends. 

“Kahuna,” she acknowledged. 

“Let me introduce my boys, Stinky and Lover Boy,” he joked, nodding to his pals. “Moondoggie, who you’ve met, is around here somewhere. Probably sulking in a corner.”

“Annnd, I have no idea what you guys are talking about,” Sawyer’s friend laughed, “but, I’m Christian.”

Tobias looked her up and down, then said with a smirk, “Challenge accepted, angel. We’ll make a sinner of you before the night is over.”  

A while later, Ethan came out of hiding and weaved his way through the party. He scanned the many faces gathered in nearly every room on the first floor of the mansion, searching for a pair of brilliant green eyes. But as luck would have it, they kept barely missing each other. No sooner had he left the room than she entered. After a couple of passes, Ethan grabbed a beer from the kitchen, and with a disappointed sigh, he made his way outside. 

Sawyer stayed by her friend's side for a while until Tobias wrapped his arm around Christian's shoulders and led her away for a dance. With a beer of her own, Sawyer ventured outside to get some fresh air. On the far end of the deck was a spiral staircase that led to a second-story balcony. Hoping to at least enjoy the view of the moonlit ocean while she worked through her own disappointment, she coiled up the stairs. When she reached the top step, she saw Ethan leaning on the railing, looking sullen and staring out to the water.

"Oh! Hey,” she tried to contain her sudden excitement, “Sorry. I didn't realize anyone was up here."

"Hi," his voice sounded glad to see her.

"Mind if I join you?"

Ethan shook his head.

"Not much of a party guy, huh?" Sawyer asked, joining him at the railing. 

"It's not really my scene."

“Oh? And what kind of scene do you prefer?”

Ethan slightly shifted his body toward her. “Coffee and conversation. A stroll through the neighborhood. Beers on the porch,” he answered, clinking the neck of his bottle against hers.

With knowing smiles, they each took a swig of beer, then fell back into the same comfortable conversation as earlier in the day. There was an undeniable connection between them and, as if they both came to that same realization, a timid silence settled between them. 

This was the moment, the one where someone made a move or made an excuse to head back downstairs. Ethan pushed off the railing and stood up straight, setting his beer bottle on the railing. Sawyer followed his lead, doing the same. When she turned to face him, a gust of ocean breeze blew her hair into her eyes. Ethan's fingers were there in an instant to help push it away, and after tucking it behind her ear, his hand lingered on the side of her face. Sawyer wrapped her hand around his wrist to hold it in place as their eyes met in contemplation.

Ethan considered whether the instant gratification was worth it, knowing it would make their inevitable goodbye that much harder. Given their current realities, he was under no illusion that this would be anything more than a spring break fling. But the voice of reason was drowned out by the overwhelming need to taste her lips and feel her skin under his fingertips. In that instant, he decided the reward far outweighed the risk. 

During those few seconds of hesitation, Sawyer made her mind up too. When she wrapped her other hand around the back of his neck, the dam broke. 

Though their lips were eager to meet, their first kiss was not hurried. It started soft and slow. Ethan pulled back after a moment to gauge Sawyer’s reaction, seeing the smile in her eyes. When he felt the gentle tug on the back of his neck urging him to return to her lips, he angled his head to the other side and kissed her again. Sawyer parted her lips, inviting him deeper. Their kisses grew in intensity, and the longer they stayed lip-locked, the more desperate they became for more.

Tongues still dancing together, Ethan clumsily backed them away from the railing and toward a reclining chaise lounge. Mindful of her wounded leg, he laid down so that Sawyer could straddle him. 

Eager to feel more of him, Sawyer lifted his shirt over his head. As her fingers dragged over the contradiction of velvety skin and concrete muscle, Ethan’s fingers found their way under the hem of her shirt. The lower hers traveled, the higher his went. When she reached the button of his jeans, Sawyer hesitated.

His hands instantly dropped to hers, tenderly wrapping them in his own. “If you want to stop, we can. This is probably a terrible idea given the odds of seeing each other again.”

The fact that he was being so considerate only made her want him more. If she was going to check this experience off of her college bucket list, she wanted to do it with him. 

Staring down at their joined hands, she shook her head. “No, I want to. I’m just a little nervous,” she confessed, looking up with a shy smile. “And honestly, the fact that we probably won’t see each other again seems like a good enough excuse to just give in. No strings attached. No complications,” she assured him. “Do you? Want to stop?” 

“Hell no. I want you,” he insisted, squeezing her hands. “It’s just… I don’t usually do this sort of thing… but I just can’t seem to get enough of you.” Ethan rubbed the knuckles of her hand with his thumb. “I’ll take whatever you’re willing to give. No pressure.”

His eyes spoke nothing but the truth, and in response, Sawyer weaved her fingers through his. She then pushed their joined hands over his head, leaning down to capture his mouth in a heated kiss. 

When things turned red hot again, Sawyer murmured against his lips. “Do you have–”

“In my back pocket,” he whispered, letting go of her hands.

Sawyer laughed as she reached underneath him and shimmied her hand into his pocket. “For someone who doesn’t do this sort of thing–” 

“Let’s just say my roommate is the type to do this and wanted everyone to be prepared tonight,” Ethan defended, plucking the foil packets from her fingers. “As much as I hate to give him the satisfaction, I’ll have to remember to thank him later.” 

The stars in the night sky replaced the ones behind her eyes after experiencing something she could only describe as magical. Feeling as though she had finally descended back to Earth, Sawyer shifted in Ethan’s arms, attempting to disentangle herself and stand up.

“Not yet,” he begged, locking her up in his limbs.

She inhaled the scent of his bare skin and placed a kiss over his still thundering heart, “Okay.”

The ocean mist cooled their flushed skin as they stole gentle kisses from each other, hoping the next wouldn’t have to be the last. Propping herself up on an elbow, Sawyer stared down into Ethan’s moonlit eyes.

“What?” he asked, confused.

“It’s just… you’ve been so amazing, and I don’t even know your name,” she giggled.

Caressing the side of her face, “Let’s keep it that way. It will be easier to let each other go. No complications, remember?” 

Nodding in agreement, “Okay. No complications,” she echoed. Sawyer repeated the mantra in her head several times as she reluctantly pried herself free of Ethan’s embrace. “I should find my friend before she starts to worry.”

“Right.”

They handed each other pieces of clothing and got dressed. Standing in front of each other, Sawyer reached up and took Ethan’s face in her hands, offering him a final kiss goodbye. Ethan swept his hands over her hair and held her head as he returned the sentiment, not letting go until they were both out of breath. 

Slowly they pulled away. Sawyer took a few steps backward, before finally turning her back to him and walking away. Before descending the spiral staircase, she turned her head and met Ethan’s gaze. “Bye, Moondoggie.”

“Bye… Gidge?” he tried to remember. 

With an affirmative nod and final wave, Sawyer winded her way down the stairs. 

She found Christian inside, sitting on Tobias’ lap. They were watching and laughing as Stinky, whose real name she thought was Andrew, sang a horrible karaoke rendition of Gotye’s “Somebody that I Used to Know.” 

When Christian spotted her friend in the doorway, she whispered to Tobias that she’d be right back. “Hey! Are you good? Have you been having fun?”

“Yep,” Sawyer beamed uncontrollably. 

“Hold up,” Christian looked her up and down, “Sawyer, did you…?” 

Sawyer eagerly shook her head in the affirmative. 

“You and your lifeguard?” 

Sawyer nodded again. 

“Eeeek! Girl, how was it? Are you okay?”

“I’m good. Really good. It was incredible.”

Part 3: The Realization

Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics @peonierose  @potionsprefect @trappedinfanfiction @jerzwriter @queencarb @coffeeheartaddict2 @quixoticdreamer16 @jamespotterthefirst @liaromancewriter @zealouscanonindeer @tveitertotwrites @tessa-liam @youlookappropriate @kyra75 @socalwriterbee @txemrn @midnightmelodiz

[escapedaudios]

Currently trying to clear the copyright for Von Dutch by Charli XCX and my god Atlantic Records is making it so hard. They have two remixes available for youtubers via creator music beta (with revenue sharing, and only up to 30 seconds), a bunch of other songs off of brat, but not Von Dutch. I might have to just take the hit and sacrifice 100% of my adsense money from that video to Atlantic Records unless I can finagle something with them ahead of time.

I don't care though, I am putting Von Dutch in My Greasefire Life, I do not care how much money I lose. I want my Brat Summer soundtrack god DAMNIT and I'll be six feet in the ground before I use the mid Addison Rae remix over the original.

[mineralsrocksandfossiltalks]

Monday Musings: Plate Tectonics

I can't believe it's already December! That means we are moving on from mineralogy to geology! This month is all about plate tectonics! What is plate tectonics? It is a scientific theory that Earth's lithosphere is broken up into plates kind of like giant puzzle pieces that have been slowly moving across the asthenosphere.

How do we know they are moving? Earthquakes and volcanoes are a pretty big clue (there's more but I will discuss these later posts). Earthquakes and volcanoes happen in very specific areas: plate boundaries. Let's take a look.

Divergent Plate Boundaries

As suggested by the name, divergent plate boundaries are where plates diverge or pull away from each other. As they do this, hot magma is pulled to the surface (it's less dense than the colder crustal rocks so it rises). A good example of a divergent plate boundary is the Mid-Atlantic Ridge which Iceland sits on top of. That's why it keeps erupting.

Here's a NASA photo from 3 days ago of the most current Icelandic eruption.

Volcanoes also happen at certain kinds of convergent plate boundaries called subduction zones.

Convergent Plate Boundaries

Convergent plate boundaries, as the name suggests, is where plates converge or come together. There are two kinds. One type is where a dense oceanic plate collides with a buoyant continental plate (or two oceanic plates). The continental plate sits higher in the upper mantle so it goes up and over the oceanic plate. This is called subduction.

As the oceanic plate sinks into the mantle below, it gets heated up and melted. That hot rock rises and forms volcanoes (in the absolute simplest sense). The Pacific Ring of Fire is a huge example of the this.

Famous volcanoes in that ring include Mt. St. Helen's

Krakatoa

and Mt. Tambora.

The second is when two continental plates collide as in the case of the Eurasian plate and the Indian Plate. In this case, they crumple and form huge mountain ranges like the Himalayas or the Alps.

As you can imagine, earthquakes are fairly common along collision zones.

Transform Plate Boundaries

The last type of plate boundary is a transform boundary. This is where two plates slide past each other and cause a bunch of friction. In rocks, we call those earthquakes. California probably has the most famous transform boundary in the form of the San Andreas Fault.

Often, transform faults are found perpendicular to divergent boundaries where rock breaks under stress.

I mean, look at all those transform faults along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge!

Now, if you like what you see here and want to go in more depth, check out my Patreon! There I have mini lessons posted that go over all the topics I learned in college in a time manageable way. You can also check out interviews and discussions with colleagues as those happen and join the Minerals, Rocks and Fossil Talks Discord server.

I also have paleoart for sale so if you are still looking for that perfect gift for Christmas you can find it there!

[mercurygray]

HI'd love to know more about Cord and her friend Laura!

So maybe for the nosebleedclub June prompts, #19 formative & #20 theatrics?

Ema, I am so sorry - this prompt is from June, so I hope it lives up to expectations. In addition to more Laura, you also get a special bonus - Portia, who I don't think has actually appeared in a fic yet!

It was agreed that old stories were the best ones. Especially when those old stories were new to the people now hearing them - and Laura Simpson, it had to be said, had some absolute corkers. "And then she says - serious as anything - "I'm so sorry, officer, I didn't see there was a sign!" "I really didn't see the sign," Cord supplied, while everyone else laughed along with Laura. "What else was I supposed to say?" "Of course she didn't see the sign, she was going nearly ninety. Anyway, she's the only one of us who could have gotten away with it," Portia drawled, grinning over her cocktail glass and companionably stroking Cord's cheek. She was currently draped over Everett Blakely's arm enjoying her Bijou, a drink that she'd had to narrate to the bartender after having spent the better part of the evening dancing wildly with everyone who'd have a go. (Cord was half-afraid she'd get behind the bar herself, but Portia, it seemed, was not in that sort of a hurry this evening.) "She's got a face that men believe."

"I do not," Cord replied in a huff, but it was apparent she would not be heard. "You do so," Portia shot back, fondness in every word. "If it had been any of us driving he wouldn't have even stopped to ask. You have a certain …air de l'ingenue." "I'll try to take that as a compliment," Cord shot back, knowing perfectly well what the French implied. Portia, for her part, only grinned, and went back to her chartreuse and vermouth with relish. "So what other …formative theatrics can you share regarding our esteemed flight officer, Miss DeNemours?" Blakely asked, clearly with an eye out for the main chance where teasing was concerned. But Portia was an old hand at this, and she'd been managing men like Blakely since she'd been old enough to walk. "Oh, I'm afraid if you want another story you'll need to bribe me for it first, Lieutenant. I require another dance, and a very brisk one." No one needed to tell him twice - Ev trotted over to have a word with the bandleader and after a fair bit of paper-flipping they started up again in brassy double-time, John Brady wailing away on his trumpet like he was being paid for it. It had been one hell of an afternoon. The day's mission had gone as well as it could have, only one fort damaged, with casualties within acceptable bounds, and then the replacement planes had arrived from Framlingham, accompanied, today, by old friends - Laura Simpson, who was known to Thorpe Abbotts, and Portia DeNemours, who was not, but who had started her acquaintance with the base by dropping down from her plane with her hat cocked just so and her jacket as rakish as can be and shouting, in her cut glass Mid-Atlantic accent, "Where's Cordelia Callaway? She owes me a whiskey and an explanation." The whiskey was easy, the explanation less so - Cord was fetched from the tower to the officers club for hugs and kisses and threats of violence if Portia did not immediately meet everyone Laura had told her about, up to and including this Egan fellow, whom she was told (cruel thought) her old friend was now dating. So now they were in the officer's club, the band going on full blast and the party very much in full swing. Portia had gotten her whiskey and her meeting with Bucky (and a dance, too, because Portia never did things by halves) and had moved on to meeting everyone else she'd heard about from Laura, and share stories from their misspent youth as pilots in the air races.

"You're being awfully quiet this evening, Major Egan," Cord said, making her way to the chairs at the side of the room. Bucky was, for once in his life, only watching the festivities instead of being smack dab in the middle of them. He moved his hand and let her sit down on his lap, the better to both talk to him and continue to watch the dancing.

"I thought you liked me quiet," he said, wrapping his arms around her waist and looking up at her with fondness in his eyes.

"Not when it feels like you're up to something," she said, accusing. "You're suspiciously quiet."

Bucky gave a brief smile, obviously caught. "I was just thinking about what it might have been like if I'd met you then - the Cord that they know. The one flooring fast cars to ninety. Might have taken me a little less time to get a date." "A hotshot military pilot from Kearney and a powderpuff winner with a speed record?" He shrugged. "Well, I hadn't joined the army in thirty nine, so I wasn't a hotshot pilot just yet." Bucky in civies was hard to summon. "I'm having a hard time picturing that." He scoffed. "I'll bet you saw dozens of me. Tall city kid in a rumpled suit who'd spent his whole life dreaming of something different and saved all month to go to the air races, asking you to sign his program and wishing he could ask you more."

She could see that boy he was describing easily enough, all smiles and shirtsleeves and a battered hat, but that boy wasn't ever holding out a program and a pen. "No one asked us to sign programs. That was for the boys. They always just asked us for …more." Bucky's face turned stormy, but he said nothing. Cord suddenly felt the closeness of his body and swallowed nervously. "Everyone thinks a girl with a fast plane is …fast with everything. That's why we all got close - Laura and Portia and the others. We were competitors but no one else had our backs. You learn who you can trust pretty quickly like that. So they…they did get a different Cordelia." John's hands tightened around her waist, her leg, heavy and warm through the fabric of her uniform trousers. "And anyway, you wouldn't have looked twice at me," she added, looking at the dancers out on the floor and trying to lighten the mood. "Portia would have pulled you to dance just like she did today and you wouldn't have thought about anyone else."

"Portia's not really my type," he assured her, and then leaned in close, ready with a secret. "And I don't think I'm hers, either, unless I'm reading her glances at Tatty wrong." Cord felt herself tense, the familiar protective urge rising in her throat. Portia was always the fearless one, the ringleader of the whole circus of young women and they were all fine until they were not fine, and someone saw something they shouldn't. Escape was easy for her - the gossip never seemed to stick to her gossamer wings and even when it did there was always that mansion along the Brandywine for her to retreat to until someone found a juicier bone to flaunt. Cord always felt more earthbound next to Portia - she'd forgotten that until tonight, watching her dance effortlessly with half of the squadron and laugh and drink with the other half. "She complimented me on my good taste, when we were dancing," he shared, pulling her just the tiniest bit closer.

"Did she?"

Bucky nodded. "Flat out told me she didn't trust fliers, too. She warmed a little, when I said you'd hated me first." He paused. "They're good friends, Cord. You're lucky to have them."

There was something…wistful, in the way he said it, a kind of longing, and she wondered for a moment what for. In the middle of everything but somehow also alone. Friendly with everyone - but really only friends with Buck. Buck, whom he'd met in flight school. What had he been like before that - that tall city kid dreaming of flight in a city that only built ships? She leaned over and lightly kissed his head. "If we keep this up, they'll be your friends, too."

[o-craven-canto]

Four scenarios for the formation of the next Pangea-like supercontinent, between 200 and 250 million years after our time. (Sources: "The next supercontinent", Stephen Battersby, 2017; "Back to the future: Testing different scenarios for the next supercontinent gathering", Davies et al., 2018)

In all these scenarios, for the next 50 million years or so Africa keeps crawling north, pushing against the southern edge of Eurasia until the Mediterranean disappears, replaced by a colossal mountain range.

1. Novopangea. The current trends continue: the Atlantic keeps growing from the mid-Atlantic ridge, and the Pacific keeps shrinking, its crust consumed by the subduction zones of the Ring of Fire and fueling the volcanoes of Japan and Peru. Africa breaks along the Great Rift, sending an eastern continent out into the Indian Ocean until it collides with Australasia. As the Pacific disappears around its one-billionth birthday, North America merges back-to-back with East Asia, trapping Australia and Antarctica in the middle.

2. Pangea Ultima or Proxima. As Atlantic crust grows older, it finally gives way, and the small subduction zones on the eastern coast of the Americas join into a massive trench. The Atlantic starts closing once again. The new subduction also splits Antarctica in two pieces, with the eastern half entering the Indian Ocean. The continents rejoin in a configuration similar to the original Pangea, although the Old World -- with which Africa and Australia are solidly fused -- rotates so that Africa wedges between the Americas. The remains of the Atlantic and Indian ocean form a Mediterranean-like inland sea.

3. Amasia. The eastern subduction zone of the Americas only opens partially, causing them to rotate. Both the Atlantic and the Pacific remain open, except for the far north of the Pacific. What closes is the Arctic Ocean, as all continents converge northward, without much changing their shape. Australia pushes hard against Northeast Asia, merging fully with it. The exception is Antarctica which remains at the South Pole, surrounded by a massive circumplanetary ridge from which all new crust is produced and by a narrower subduction ring that will raise volcanoes all around its coast.

4. Aurica. This time, both the Atlantic and the Pacific close up. The dominant ocean is a completely new one: Eurasia tears in two along the Indus valley and the rift of Lake Baikal, with the western half travelling west, and the eastern half (with Australia) east, until they both collide with North America on its opposite sides. For a while, the Ring of Fire is an Atlantic phenomenon. South America is similarly crushed between Antarctica and Africa.

In any case, eventually new rifts will form, and the new supercontinent will also shatter like Pangea once did (and before that, Rodinia), producing new continents of unrecognizable shape.

Video: Novopangea

Video: Pangea Ultima

Video: Amasia

Video: Aurica