#riverbanks zoo

[cassiebphotos]

Flamingos at the Riverbanks Zoo, South Carolina - 6.14.24

[sitting-on-me-bum]

Amazon tree boa (Corallus batesii) portrait, Riverbanks Zoo, South Carolina. Captive, occurs in South America.

Photographer: Joel Sartore / Photo Ark

[mitigatingchaos]

On Lists

Good advice on how to make each day a little better. Theodore at Riverbanks Zoo, checking out the tortoises. Make a list of things that make you happy. Make a list of things you do every day. Compare the lists. Adjust accordingly. And if going to the zoo is a happy thing, go often. -adapted from @Bitsandpieces.us Note:  Adeline and Theodore love going to the zoo. We bought them a family, season…

[southernsolarpunk]

I went to the zoo today and LOOK at this turtle statue made of garbage!!!

[tvrningout-a]

some lil animals below the cut!!

i saw koalas and meerkats in person for the first time today and gotta say it made my day :’ )))

[bunny-ear-lovergirl]

[mingtinys]

what dating seventeen feels like

pairing : seventeen x gn!reader

headcanons , fluff , misc

warnings : none

word count : 1.1 k

requested ? no

a/n: just a small collection of the things i love in life that i associate with seventeen

choi seungcheol

falling asleep on the couch and waking up in bed. chocolate-covered strawberries. the kind of love found in romcoms. expensive dinner dates and champagne.

cologne that lingers on your clothes and bed sheets. tight, bone-crushing, hugs. his hand almost always under the hem of your shirt, skin to skin (it grounds him). him letting you win when you play wrestle. cute aggression victim.

having a rock to hold on to amidst a raging current.

yoon jeonghan

diving under a crashing wave to find calm, gentle, water. rollercoasters with big drops. feathers. lavender fields. leaving the theater and realizing night has fallen.

always saying the same thing at the same time (it scares seokmin). naps on the couch. sending each other pictures of weird-looking animals with the caption "you" or "us." partners in crime. braiding his hair.

having not only a boyfriend but a best friend in jeonghan.

joshua hong

warm blankets, fresh from the dryer. pancakes and orange juice in the morning. raw honey. the scent of freshly baked bread. scented candles and wax melts.

lives up to the gentleman title. opens doors, bides by the sidewalk rule, lends you his jacket, etc. acts! of! service!! fighting over who pays the bill (he's actually ambushed your waiter to pay before you can even see the check). domestic, mundane, slice-of-life type of love.

a honeymoon phase that never ends.

wen junhui

walking down empty streets without a care in the world. morning cartoons. clingy cats. ice cream for dinner. frozen pizza with red wine. airport liminal space hours.

taking pictures of sunsets to send to each other. doodling on his hand. staying up until 3am accidentally. back hugs galore. resting his chin atop your head. him getting as close as possible when showing him something on your phone (i'm talking cheek smooshed up against yours). sleepy jun asking for kisses every morning.

living life in the moment because you know the future can wait for you two.

kwon soonyoung

energetic snow days. sledding, snowball fights, building snowmen. energy drinks and all-nighters. watermelon sugar. summer bonfires. the ambiance of muffled music through club bathrooms.

zoo dates. always wins you the biggest prizes at carnivals. his favorite place to nap is your lap. sweaty post-dance practice hugs. he gets pouty if you start a tv show without him. baking brownies at 3am. talks about you non-stop to anyone who will (or won't) listen.

excitement that isn't momentary or overwhelming. excitement that makes life meaningful.

jeon wonwoo

tulips blooming in the spring. waxing gibbous moons. amethyst. resting after a long, busy day. the scent of old, yellowed books. rhythmic clicking of a keyboard. warm, smooth, riverbank stones.

re-adjusting his glasses for him after every kiss. let's you design his character's outfits in video games. tells you about the book he's reading like it's gossip. he's always taking candid photos of you. quiet mornings. elderly couples who see you two are reminded of how they fell in love.

defining love not by how much it's said, but by how it's felt.

lee jihoon

thunderstorms that lull you to sleep. shiny, red guitars coming to life with smooth melodies. the crackle of a fire. rosemary. empty highways at night. lightning that strikes twice.

morning coffee dates at home. napping on his studio sofa while he works. quality! time! absolutely spoils you every chance he gets. pretends to act all cool when you catch him staring. writing songs for you. his hand routinely finds your knee when he's anxious. he prefers intimate and private acts of affection to the alternative.

cherishing all the little things that make your relationship important.

lee seokmin

wishing on dandelions. blue skies. morning dew on grass. golden hour. that burning sensation you get in your lungs when laughing too hard. iced lattes.

always asking permission to kiss you. so, so attentive. falling asleep on facetime. pillow forts. lots, and lots, and lots of nose kisses. him never wanting to leave you in the morning. "five more minutes" type of guy. his favorite feeling in the world is making you laugh.

finally knowing what it means to love someone so much you'd give the world for them.

kim mingyu

sleeping by a window with the sun warming your skin. hearing your favorite song on the radio. silky white sheets. first date jitters. first love. receiving a bouquet of roses.

admires you so, so, much. talks about you 24/7, much to his members' annoyance. (jk, they love you, they just like to tease him about it). literally a sponge the way he starts picking up your habits and slang. he's physically incapable of rejecting your puppy-dog eyes. likes to lay sprawled out on top of you. he'll often seek you out if he needs a little extra support.

the feeling that comes with knowing you've found "the one."

xu minghao

the autumn leaves changing. winter constellations. a solar eclipse. the quiet of a house before everyone wakes. those cozy granny-square blankets. white wine. laughing at scary movies.

wine and painting nights. him always making two cups of tea. art museum dates. swaying together to music in the kitchen. him secretly being a sucker for your doting. has your mannerisms memorized and prides himself on it. somehow always knows what to say when you're feeling down.

growing, learning, and experiencing life alongside each other.

boo seungkwan

warm, summer air. mystery flavored lollipops that somehow taste like every flavor all at once. rosy red cheeks.

teasing each other and inside jokes. nicknames like loser, stupid-head, idiot etc. (affectionate). hours long gossip sessions. kisses that taste of coffee and tangerine chapstick. stars in his eyes whenever you're doing literally anything. having his undivided attention.

resident happy pill and mood-maker seungkwan knowing he can let his mask fall around you without judgement.

hansol vernon chwe

watching city lights blur past in the passenger seat of a car at night. cereal at 1am. falling asleep while watching tv. poorly handmade, yet meaningful gifts. assorted candies. buying road trip snacks.

communicating with a single look. ice cream dates in the middle of winter. speaking purely in movie and tiktok references. late-night conversations that take a weird turn. (you've once debated if aliens would like pineapple on pizza). pretending not to notice how shy he gets when initiating physical affection.

loving the strange, bad, and hidden parts of each other as much as the good.

lee chan

the comforting buzz and motion of a subway at night. toothy smiles. watching reruns of your favorite childhood show. surprise parties. the first snow of the new year. concert lights.

driving at 2am, singing at the top of your lungs. random dance parties in the living room. getting noise complaints and giggling about it. pillow fights and board games, competitive, yet both trying to let the other win cause it'll make them happy. asking him to open jars. him getting exceptionally giddy to open said jars. (you're completely capable, but know he likes to feel needed).

making each other's inner child feel safe.

[cypherdecypher]

Animal of the Day!

Carolina Parakeet (Conuropsis carolinensis)

(Photo from Naturalis Biodiversity Center)

Extinction Date- 1939

Habitat- Midwestern United States

Size (Weight/Length)- 280 g; 25 cm

Diet- Seeds; Fruits; Nuts

Cool Facts- The Carolina parakeet was once one of the three parrot species native to the United States. These brilliantly colored birds were once found from New York to the Gulf of Mexico along riverbanks and cypress swamps. Flocks had up to 300 individuals, building nests in tree hollows and eating nuts or fruits. Carolina parakeets were in decline since the last glacial maximum, and combined with inbreeding and capturing for museum specimens, the parakeets were eradicated from the wild by 1904. A pair of Carolina parakeets, Incas and Lady June, in the Cincinnati Zoo passed away in 1918. Strangely enough, they were not classified as extinct until 1939 under the hope that some parakeets remained in the mangroves of Florida. Today, the sun parakeet, or sun conure, remains their closest relative. Sun conures are endangered due to hunting for their feathers, habitat loss, and capture for the pet trade. Conservationists are rushing to protect the sun parakeet’s remaining habitat and cracking down on cross-border trade.

Rating- 11/10 (Possibly poisonous from their diet including cockleburs.)

[pineappleciders]

sunny is an empty concert auditorium. sunny is the warmth of hot cocoa in a cabin. sunny is crayons that are too short to draw with yet too long to throw away. sunny is a green, open field that doesn't seem to end. sunny is a set dinner table that is empty. sunny is the warm light that reflects through the shades and onto the floor. sunny is drawing on a foggy window with your finger. sunny is the one blurry photo you take while taking pictures.

aubrey is a broken chain fence. aubrey is going to the zoo, and wanting to bring every animal home. aubrey is a bus ride at night back home, anticipating punishment from your parents. aubrey is eating popsicles by the side of the road with your best friend. aubrey is selling lemonade during the summer. aubrey is going barefoot into the muddy lake. aubrey is a dog let off-leash for the first time, running freely through fields. aubrey is a messy collage of newspapers and dry markers.

kel is drawing on the sidewalk using chalk with your friends. kel is the sandwich and carrots your mom makes you after school. kel is waiting for the school bus early in the morning in your raincoat. kel is fear; fear of yourself, of what you cannot control. kel is the last slice of pizza that one person insists the other has. kel is jumping in a pile of leaves with your dog. kel is falling and skinning your knee as a child, yet having nobody around to hear your cries.

hero is nostalgia. hero is eating fruit loops with your siblings on a sunday morning. hero is colorful ice cream and brownies for dessert. hero is stuffed animals in a claw machine. hero is the bottom of a tea cup after it's been emptied. hero is coming home after a long day to nobody. hero is the stray cat that brings you something every day. hero is the feeling of a dog's fur. hero is a painting the artist recreated, new and refreshed while the old version rots. hero is breakfast in bed from your children.

mari is a tire swing hanging from a beautiful oak tree. mari is the taste of your grandmother's baking. mari is confiding in someone you trust. mari is the flowers swaying by the riverbank. mari is asking someone to not take a photo of you, then later regretting it. mari is an old piano, one overgrown with plants and long abandoned. mari is the pictures of generations of your family hung in the hallways. mari is going out to eat after your big volleyball game.

basil is scraping your knee and insisting you don't need a band-aid. basil is polaroid photos strung up in a teenager's bedroom. basil is an old, dusty key which you're not sure what it unlocks. basil is a kid's journal with a lock on it that you forgot the password to. basil is spilling something in someone else's house and watching them clean it up for you. basil is jars of honey and jam in a cupboard. basil is dry, cracked knuckles.

[mtaartsdesign]

Glenn Goldberg’s new mosaic artwork has arrived at E 149 St (6) station in the Bronx. “Bronx River” is an exuberant evocation of the many natural wonders that exist in the artist’s native Bronx, including the New York Botanical Garden, The Bronx Zoo, Orchard Beach, Pelham Bay Park, and of course, the Bronx River, New York City’s only freshwater river. Once heavily polluted with industrial waste, today the river has seen remarkable recovery in its water quality, thanks to efforts by environmental groups that have worked together to restore, clean, and rebuild it for community members and tourists alike. The mosaic features a variety of real and imagined plants, trees, and animal inhabitants that populate the vibrant riverbank and its surroundings. Egrets, mallard ducks, and English house sparrows are set against playfully patterned background imagery that flows horizontally across the wall, mimicking the movement of the river.

📸: John Berens

[phoenix-downer]

Where I Belong Chapter 5

Where I Belong: ~2430 words. Kairi wanders Quadratum searching for Sora.

Story Info: Sora/Kairi. Starts during the end of KH3/during ReMind and moves into KH4. Kairi POV. Angst, Romance, Fluff.

Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5

Kairi’s eyes fluttered open. Hazy street lights slowly came into focus, and her cheek was squished against a cold slab of concrete. Drip, drip, drip, came a light, misty rain plopping into a nearby puddle. Groaning, she sat up. The last thing she remembered was grasping a clump of earth on the shores of the Styx. But she wasn’t on a riverbank. She was lying on a city street. It was night, but the rain plus the lights from the city so overpowered the stars that she couldn’t see them twinkling in the sky. 

Was this Quadratum? Had she really made it? Horns blared nearby, and she scrambled to her feet. She was on a giant crosswalk, standing on top of brilliant white reflective paint telling her to get off the road already. She followed its advice, running towards the nearest sidewalk as fast as her legs could carry her. 

Once she was safely across, she took stock of her surroundings. A big, towering building with a neon red 104 sign blinked at her from across the way. 104, huh? Four was the number of death. Four was in the name of Quadratum. This place had to be it. It had to be. 

But where was Sora? Frowning, she fiddled with her necklace. She’d been so focused on getting here that she hadn’t put much thought into what she’d do once she actually made it. Find Sora, of course, but how? The city was huge. 

Closing her eyes, she focused on her heartbeat and forced her breathing to be even. In, out, in, out. A calm body led to a calm heart, a calm mind.  

Opening her eyes again, she felt the urge to just…walk. She wasn’t sure where she was going, but each time she reached a new street or alleyway, she somehow knew where to turn. She passed cute cafes and colorful restaurants, quiet office buildings and raucous karaoke venues and music stores playing multiple tracks at once. And on every corner there was a vending machine or a convenience store or something that drew her eye. Weaving through the streets of Quadratum was like navigating a forest of tall buildings, and even at this time of night there were plenty of people around.

The minutes ticked by and turned into half an hour, then an hour, and still she kept walking. Her feet were getting tired, but if she could just find Sora, everything would be okay. She had no money from this reality to buy a bus ticket or subway ticket with; all she could do was walk. 

After another hour had passed, she reached the outskirts of this big green area called Ueno Park according to the signs she found. She’d stumbled upon Shinobazu Pond, a large pond split into several sections with an island in the middle. On the island was a temple called Bentendō, and Kairi admired it for a little while before continuing her search. Even with the city lights all around the park and the light within the park, it was still a little eerie walking around by herself. On a whim she summoned her Keyblade to make sure she still could. Every now and then she saw other people, and while everyone so far had left her alone, she wanted to be ready to defend herself, just in case.

Further exploration of the park revealed a shrine, a zoo, and multiple museums, all of which were currently closed. She wondered about the history of this place, about what she might find if she wandered inside the buildings. An entire reality’s worth of knowledge and information. What would the people here think of someone like her? Would they believe she was from not just a different world, but a different reality?

She searched as much of the park as she could for Sora. When at last her feet were so tired she couldn’t walk anymore, she collapsed on the edge of a big, beautiful fountain across from the Quadratum National Museum. It reminded her of the fountain she’d sat at with Sora at Herc and Meg’s villa. The shape was even similar, a long rectangle with half circles coming off the sides. But Sora was nowhere to be found. 

Where was he? Quadratum was so huge that she could spend years searching it and never find him. She was exhausted and hungry and cold. Streaks of gray stretched across the horizon; she’d been searching all night for him. A few tears dripped down her cheeks and splashed into the waters of the fountain. What good was coming here if she couldn’t even find him?

He wasn’t gone for good. She knew he wasn’t. And yet he wasn’t here. He wasn’t coming for her. But a part of her wanted him to.

She wiped her eyes. Stupid, selfish. She was supposed to find him. That was the whole point of her journey, wasn’t it? It was the least she could do after all he’d done for her. And she would find him, she just needed a good cry. If she could get it all out of her system, she’d be fine. 

She wasn’t fine. The tears just kept coming and coming. 

“Hey, are you alright?” came a voice from behind her. It was deep and low and surprisingly gentle.

Embarrassed, she ducked her head and hurriedly wiped her eyes. “Oh, um, I’m fine.” She was making such a scene that even a random stranger had noticed. She supposed she should be nervous about an unknown man speaking to her, but she wasn’t. 

Maybe her exhaustion meant she was lowering her guard.

“You’re crying,” the young man said, and he sounded very sorry that she was. She lifted her eyes to get a better idea of who she was talking to. It was a little less dark outside, but her interlocutor wore a hood over his head, and his face was covered in shadow.

“Who are you?” she asked, more curious than sad now. Who was this guy, and why was he hiding his face from her?

“I heard you crying,” was his answer, “and I knew I had to come.” His voice cracked on the words like her tears had broken his heart.

She frowned and tilted her head. “Huh?” She was so tired that her mind was a complete muddle. This guy’s concern was touching, but why was he so worried about her, they didn’t even know each other. None of this made sense and all she wanted to do was sleep—

“Kairi.”

Her heart jumped into her throat and got stuck there, making it hard to breathe. This wasn’t possible. It couldn’t be. Sora’s voice was so dear and wonderful and perfect, and she’d missed it so, so much. She was only imagining this stranger was Sora, she was mixing them up, Sora’s voice didn’t sound like this—

He lifted his hood, revealing his face at last. “Kairi, it’s me.” 

His clothes were different, his hair was different, his face even looked slightly different and his voice definitely sounded different. But none of that mattered. His big blue eyes would always give him away, and all these changes meant he wasn’t dead. He was alive. 

She raced towards him and threw herself into his outstretched arms, crying out his name. He wrapped his arms around her and held her so tightly that she could hardly breathe. His entire body trembled as they embraced, and Kairi memorized everything about this moment—his warmth, his scent, his touch. Every inch of her was affected by his presence, like she’d stepped out of a storybook and into the real world at long last. 

For being dead, she’d never felt so alive. Night was over and the day had dawned, revealing Sora to her like she was Psyche seeing Eros for the first time.

“You came for me.” Sora’s words were a whisper, a plea, a prayer he could hardly voice. Like he couldn’t believe she was really here. 

“Of course I did,” she said. She pulled away a little to look him in the eye. How dear he was to her. Older and sadder and wiser, but still her Sora. Still kind and brave and good, still fighting for what was right, still trying to protect people, to save them.

“You didn’t have to,” he said. “You could’ve stayed safe at home.” 

She cupped his cheek and watched him melt into her touch. Like he was a starving man and she’d just offered him a feast. “But then I’d have to be apart from the person I love most, and that life would be empty.” 

She expected to see his beautiful Sora smile. For his face to light up with joy and a delighted response to burst forth from his mouth. But instead he burst into tears, a torrent of emotion pouring out of him like a waterfall as she watched, stunned. Like he hadn’t cried at all from the moment they were separated until now. His legs gave out, and he crumpled to the pavement at her feet. His broken weeping echoed across the entire area, and her heart swelled with compassion. 

“Oh Sora, did you really think I’d abandon you to fate, to death?” she asked, gently stroking his hair. It was so soft and silky between her fingers. His entire body was wracked with sobs, and she wondered how much he’d had to hold in until now. How much pain and suffering he’d absorbed and carried like a human vessel until he couldn’t bear it anymore. 

“I’m here, it’s okay,” she murmured soothingly. He looked up at her through his tears, his big beautiful eyes filled with gratitude. She smiled tenderly at him, and he wrapped his arms around her and buried his face in her stomach. A hot blush crept up her cheeks—he’d been bold before they’d parted, but never quite this bold before. But it wasn’t a bad change, not at all. She kept stroking his hair as he comforted himself with her presence, the only salve that could soothe his malaise. 

“Kairi,” he said, and hearing him say her name with all the tenderness and love in his heart was such a gift. His tears came from a heart so overwhelmed by her devotion that it couldn’t bear her love. And yet he was bearing it, bearing it and basking in it and taking comfort in it. 

You are loved. You are so, so loved, and I hope you know you’re not just worth dying for. You’re worth living for, too.

She bit her lip. Should she say that out loud, or would it be too much? She didn’t want to overwhelm him any more than she already had or overdo it. 

But then she thought of how precious every moment with him was. How she regretted not telling him more of what was on her heart before he was gone. How she wished they’d kissed. 

“I understand now, why you would sacrifice yourself for me,” she said softly, and he looked up at her, his red-rimmed eyes searching hers. “And I would do the same for you, again and again. But you’re not just worth dying for. You’re worth living for, too.” She smiled, her heart so full of affection that she thought it would burst. “I love you, Sora, and when I’m with you, I know I’m where I belong.” 

She watched as her words washed over him, as he was engulfed by the depths of their reality. They overwhelmed him all over again, and he wept and wept and wept. All she could do was console him as best she could. There was a remedy for loneliness and sorrow, but how could she possibly hope to comfort someone so wounded by love’s arrows? 

When at last he’d calmed down, he wiped his eyes and struggled to his feet with shaking legs. Then he pulled her into another hug so tight she thought he’d never let go. His embrace was strong and firm, like he was strong with her, like she was sharing her strength with him. 

“Thank you, Kairi,” he said, his voice low but steady. Confident in her love and her support. He was so selfless and caring that sometimes it was like he forgot he mattered, like he needed to be told his life was valuable too. That he was worth more than just what he could do for other people. And who better to tell him that than the person who loved him with all her heart?

At last they parted, and he had a beautiful smile on his face. There was her radiant Sora smile, and she shared in his joy and returned his delight. His eyes flickered to her lips and then met her eyes again, and she felt her blush return with a vengeance. Was he really gonna go for it this time? 

Oh yes, yes he was. He cupped her cheek, and her breath caught in her throat as her heart thundered in her chest. He was gonna do it, he was really gonna do it. He parted his lips and tilted his head, and her eyes fluttered shut. She waited a few deliciously agonizing seconds, then felt his lips meet hers in a tender kiss. They were both a little hesitant, a little unsure at first, but a second kiss and then a third boosted their confidence and emboldened them to explore uncharted territory together.

This was real, opening her eyes to a new realm, awakening her to a world bursting with color and sensuality when before she’d been living a black and white existence. And Sora was at the center of it all, guiding her even as she guided him, bringing life and color as she brought light and warmth. All those days and weeks and months without him were only a bad dream. She’d been cast into a deep Sleep but was awake now, revived by his life-giving kiss. 

When at last they parted, he gave her a contented smile. “Thank you, Kairi,” he said again, his voice playful, his eyes dancing with joy. 

She grinned and squeezed his hand. “You’re welcome, Sora.” 

She wasn’t sure yet how they’d get home. She wasn’t sure yet when they’d get home. But being with Sora was worth it. It was more than worth it. When she was with him, she was where she belonged. And together they’d figure out a way to cross the River Styx, to traverse realms, to jump realities, until they made it home.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A/N: A big thank you to everyone who’s liked, reblogged, and commented on this story! I really appreciate it ❤️ 

I’ve written a few stories about Sora and Kairi reuniting, and so far they’ve been set in Shibuya each time. So I wanted to do something different and went with Ueno Park. It’s just this beautiful green space in Tokyo with lots of cool things to do. The fountain where Sora and Kairi reunite is real, and it’s in this big open space across from Tokyo National Museum lined by trees on either side. By a happy coincidence it really does have the same shape as the fountain where Herc and Meg sit in the Hercules movie and where Sora and Kairi sat for their conversation back in Chapter 2. 

Also, the water/tears symbolism in the KH3 opening and secret ending made me want to feature water and tears as a key element of their reunion. I also just like the simplicity of it all, instead of this big epic mid-battle reunion, Sora finds Kairi quietly crying by a fountain because he knew she was grieving.

I also googled how long it would take to walk from the Scramble Crossing in Shibuya to Ueno Park to make sure those details were correct, and realistically Kairi could spend a good chunk of the night walking from Shibuya to Ueno Park and then walking all around Ueno Park. I also just really liked the idea of her searching for him a la Psyche wandering the earth searching for Eros.

Kairi not recognizing Sora at first was something that came to me as I was writing. For two of the stories I’ve written about their reunion, he’s lost his memories and thus doesn’t recognize her, and then for one of the stories they both have their memories fully intact and are reunited mid-battle. So I wanted to mix things up a little. And then I wondered why Kairi might not recognize him at first and came up with a few possible reasons: exhaustion, not expecting to find him here, he’s changed, his face is hidden from her initially, etc. I also wanted those Eros and Psyche vibes with Kairi not seeing Sora’s face at first. Earlier in the story he relates to Eros hiding his face/appearance from Psyche because he wants Kairi to love him for him and not because he’s a popular beloved hero etc., so I wondered if he wouldn’t approach Kairi disguised to see if she still knows it’s him despite how much he’s changed. Her recognizing him when he says her name is a trope I am always a huge sucker for so I loved including it here. 

Also, Aquafolia requested one or both of them falling to their knees in relief, and for this story it just felt right for it to be Sora. I kept thinking about how he’s had to be so strong this whole time and has been thrown into fight after fight, not really getting the chance to grieve, and so seeing Kairi again? I think it’s very possible all the feelings he’s had to hold back for so long would finally come out all at once. And then Aquafolia also suggested Kairi echo the line, “I’d have to be apart from the person I love most, and that life would be empty” to Sora. 

And then the kiss at the end of the chapter. In the Hercules movie, Herc and Meg are interrupted twice before the third time’s the charm and they get to kiss, so I wanted to make a shoutout to that with this story (Pegasus interrupting Sora and Kairi in Chapter 1, the two of them wanting to kiss in Chapter 3 but running out of time, and now, finally, in Chapter 5 they get to kiss). And then they kiss three times because I always enjoy a good Chikai/Oath reference. 

I also couldn’t resist more Eros and Psyche references with Sora awakening Kairi with a kiss. I wanted to show it was perhaps not a literal waking from sleep, but the two of them awakening to all these new experiences. And with the interiority here from Kairi, I was inspired by Kate Bush’s song “The Sensual World,” especially the lyrics “Stepping out of the page into the sensual world” (which Kate Bush wrote as if the character Molly Bloom from Ulysses were stepping into the real world) because Quadratum being this different reality is so interesting to me. How would it feel for Sora and Kairi to experience a more realistic reality after living in a fairy tale/fictional reality? To go from being these characters in a video game story to living in the real world. And then there’s another, double meaning there, that once Kairi is reunited with Sora, she feels like she’s living in a realer, fuller world. Everything becomes more vivid, and she appreciates how rich and alive the world around her is.

(I realized I didn’t note this earlier, but Chapter 3 was inspired by another Kate Bush song, “The Fog,” from the same album. I love the lyrics, “But I can’t let you go / if I let you go / you slip into the fog,” I feel like that really captures Kairi’s mental state after KH3. I wanted to contrast that foggy state of mind to how vivid everything feels for her when she's reunited with Sora).

Then that brings us to the title of the chapter and the story—Kairi telling Sora that when she’s with him she’s where she belongs to echo Hercules telling Meg the same thing at the end of the movie. 

Congrats if you’ve read to this point lol, I just had a lot of thoughts and feelings about this chapter and this story, and I hope you enjoyed it and enjoyed reading about some of the background that went into writing it. Thank you to Aquafolia for providing the prompt, and a big thank you again to Liv for proofreading the story for me and giving feedback ❤️ And thank you all for reading!

[yemmuis]

emu!! it’s been way too long since i last dropped by!! i’ve missed you!! how are you?? 

now that spring’s here, i’m lugging in a GIANT basket of flowers of all kinds for you 💐🌷🪻🌹🌻🌸🌺!! + a curious sel question!!! — what’s your favourite thing to do during spring? what do you think choso's is? 🥺 

AAHHH OMG HI SELLY !!!!! i’m so sorry i missed this i’ve been super busy :((

thank you for the flowers! 💐💐💐take some for u too !!! i missed u as well shhdbfjdhfnd i’m doing great now that the sun has returned to my area ! 🤍🤍 how are you?! how is life treating you recently? i hope spring is treating u well !!!

my favorite thing right now is probably walking around town with my partner and friends—and sitting on the riverbank ! there’s this really cute spot on a small cliff over there that i love sitting on and drawing and just chilling bc nobody goes there anymore

as for choso, he seems like a very nature and animals and hiking and small businesses guy. would definitely take a girl to a flower farm—and local farms ! animal shelter choso is definitely an animal rights person and takes time researching petting zoos and farms with attractions that are kind to their animals and take good care of them 🥺🥺 and he would go to the farmers market bc they start up in the spring 🥺🥺 ugh i luv him so much

bonus: sunflower maze choso? corn maze choso? dare i say halloween jump scare maze worker choso…?

[shinykittenland]

Best Weekend Getaways Near Ghaziabad

Agra: Agra is a top choice with the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and local markets filled with traditional crafts. Families can explore Mughal history and enjoy local delicacies.

Rishikesh: Rishikesh offers peaceful ashrams, thrilling river rafting, and scenic views of the Ganges. Families can enjoy nature walks, riverbanks and the iconic evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.

Jaipur: Jaipur is famous for its rich heritage. Amber Fort, City Palace and Hawa Mahal are top attractions, along with bustling bazaars for shopping.

Nainital: Nainital’s serene lakes, scenic views, and pleasant weather make it a favorite family spot. A boat ride on Naini Lake, a visit to the zoo, and shopping at the Mall Road are popular activities.

Neemrana Fort Palace: Neemrana Fort offers a royal experience with breathtaking views, spa services and cultural performances. Just a short drive from Ghaziabad, it is perfect for a weekend trip.

These weekend destinations are ideal for short family trip from Ghaziabad. For corporate tour consider renting Tempo Traveller in Ghaziabad, which is an affordable and spacious option for comfortable family travel. Book at the best price for a relaxed journey to these memorable getaways.

[meloinaw]

The Truth on Lago Maggiore Camping

Cannobio is the ideal location for your Cannobio Camping vacation on Lake Maggiore's shores. The warm atmosphere and picturesque setting, this town accommodates campers of all types - be they family groups, friends in groups alone travelers, or even solo tourists looking to experience something new. Whatever their reasons for a vacation the city of Cannobio will cater to all of your needs, and will provide an unforgettable holiday experience to all visitors.

Cannobio offers an abundance of lodging options, ranging from campgrounds catering to caravanners as well as campers. There are electricity hook-ups along with the ability to dispose of waste, as for amenities like the private beach with parking to Holiday homes, self-catering and holiday apartments that come with fully-equipped kitchens, patios or terrace and restaurants nearby.

At Lake There are a variety of activities to do both on or off of the water. Some of them include swimming, sailing, kayaking and Camping Cannobio . For those seeking more relaxing ways to spend their time, there's hiking pathways through the mountain ranges or less strenuous cycling trails to select from. Furthermore, there is also an outdoor public area to where water sports are possible. All those interested in knowing more about Cannobio Camping, they can visit here.

Cannobio is a great spot for a hike. Its surrounding hills are home to an array of difficult paths and bike tracks along a riverbank, while automobile tours or guides provide a means in exploring this region of Italy.

Are you an animal enthusiast? There's an aquarium close by that's bound to delight kids and adults alike. attraction with over 100 kinds of marine life including reptiles and amphibians. They also have a myriad of interactive exhibits that are sure to delight anyone old or young alike! Lake Maggiore offers watersport enthusiasts an incredible water park, which includes windsurfing and sailing to kite surfing and diving. You can also enjoy tranquil cruises along the Locarno Island ferry service, or go to one of the three castles dating back to medieval times nearby.

Cannobio which is situated near the Swiss line it is a famous vacation spot with Italian as well as Swiss visitors alike. From spending time by the sea or exploring its awe-inspiring heritage and art, the town has something to offer every traveler, whether it's relaxing on the beach, exploring modern architecture, exploring historical streets similar to those in Venice or wandering and admiring amazing structures, such as those at Santa Pieta Sanctuary - Cannobio has much to offer both Italians as well as Swiss alike! Family vacations with children are a breeze. you can choose from a myriad of sights like aqua parks as well as zoos, botanical gardens, and even zoos as well as many others! It is best to click here or go to our official site to know about Campingplatz Lago Maggiore .

Lago Maggiore Camping can be the ideal way to relax and let go of your day-to-day obligations. It also gives you time to unwind, camping in nature can mean connecting with nature and breathing in fresh air, especially when your camp is near the waters of Lago Maggiore.

Lakes, and their surrounding area, offer an abundance of activities for recreation. Cannobio which is a prime example offers a myriad of bars and restaurants for you to enjoy; individuals who enjoy arts and culture would particularly appreciate Villa Taranto in Gordola with its sculpture park as also the Museum of Artefacts in Bellinzona which has a large collection.

Whatever it is, one of our cozy encampments with breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore or in one of our comfortable Mobilheimen, Lake Maggiore will provide you with a memorable holiday. Therefore, start planning to plan your Camping Lago Maggiore adventure now by selecting the type and accommodation. When you reach your desired location, all you need in order to really enjoy your getaway is to relax and unwind!

[saurabhgt]

Top 10 Adventure Activities in Guwahati: An Adrenaline Junkie’s Guide

Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India, is a city that perfectly blends natural beauty with vibrant culture. But beyond its serene landscapes and historic temples, Guwahati offers a plethora of adventure activities that promise to get your adrenaline pumping. Here are the top 10 adventure activities you must try in Guwahati. And let’s not forget the places to visit in Guwahati that add cultural spice to your adventure-filled visit. 

1. River Rafting on the Brahmaputra

One of the most exhilarating experiences you can have in Guwahati is river rafting on the mighty Brahmaputra River. The stretch near Guwahati offers challenging rapids that are perfect for both beginners and experienced rafters. The breathtaking scenery along the riverbanks adds to the thrill of navigating through the turbulent waters.

2. Trekking in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills

Guwahati is the starting point for numerous trekking routes that lead into the beautiful Khasi and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya. These treks take you through lush forests, scenic valleys, and cascading waterfalls, offering a chance to explore the region’s rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.

3. Wildlife Safari in Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

Located just a short drive from Guwahati, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the highest density of one-horned rhinoceroses in the world. Embark on a thrilling jeep safari through the sanctuary to spot these majestic creatures, along with other wildlife such as wild boars, leopards, and a variety of bird species.

4. Rock Climbing at Assam State Zoo Cum Botanical Garden

For rock climbing enthusiasts, the Assam State Zoo Cum Botanical Garden offers a challenging artificial rock wall. The facility caters to climbers of all skill levels, providing a great opportunity to hone your climbing techniques in a controlled environment.

5. Paragliding in Kaziranga

While Kaziranga is famous for its national park, it also offers an exciting paragliding experience. Glide over the lush green landscapes and enjoy panoramic views of the region’s natural beauty. The sensation of flying like a bird is unmatched and provides an unforgettable adventure.

6. Zip Lining in Meghalaya

Just a short trip from Guwahati, the lush hills of Meghalaya offer thrilling zip-lining experiences. Soar above dense forests and gushing rivers, feeling the rush of air as you zip from one point to another. It’s a perfect activity for those seeking a mix of excitement and scenic beauty.

7. Kayaking in Umiam Lake

Umiam Lake, located near Shillong and accessible from Guwahati, is a popular destination for water sports. Kayaking on the tranquil waters of this expansive lake is both relaxing and adventurous. Paddle through the serene surroundings and enjoy the picturesque landscape.

8. Camping in Chandubi Lake

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by camping at Chandubi Lake, situated about 64 km from Guwahati. The lake, surrounded by dense forests and tea gardens, is an ideal spot for camping, boating, and fishing. Spend a night under the stars and wake up to the sounds of nature.

9. Hot Air Ballooning over Guwahati

Experience the thrill of hot air ballooning over Guwahati and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city and its surroundings. The serene early morning or late afternoon flights provide stunning vistas of the Brahmaputra River, the cityscape, and the rolling hills in the distance.

10. Mountain Biking in Meghalaya

The hilly terrain of Meghalaya, accessible from Guwahati, is perfect for mountain biking. Ride through challenging trails that wind through forests, across rivers, and up steep inclines. This adventure activity offers both excitement and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a thrill-seeking novice, Guwahati and its surroundings offer a wide range of activities that cater to all levels of experience. From water sports to trekking and wildlife safaris, the region promises unforgettable adventures that will leave you longing for more. So pack your bags, put on your adventure gear, and get ready to explore the wild side of Guwahati!

[nuttysoulbluebird]

Singapore at night is a colorful picture of the city's heartbeat pulsing under the flashing neon lights. As the sun sinks in the west and the city is lit up with starry lights, Singapore's night scene is like a brilliant fireworks display that attracts tourists and locals alike to revel in it.

From the top floor of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel's SkyPark, the night view of Singapore is breathtaking. Towering skyscrapers, the twisting Marina Bus Bridge and the colorful Yacht Club are all part of the modern city's bustling scene. The ever-changing lights on the three towers of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel seem like shooting stars in the sky, dotting the night sky.

Singapore's night scene is not just limited to the Marina Bay area, but also extends to Clarke Quay. Here, one can feel the rich historical atmosphere and cozy entertainment venues. At nightfall, the neon lights of the riverbank and the lights of the cruise ships intermingle with the reflection of the river to create an enchanting picture. Clarke Quay's restaurants, bars and stores also display their unique charm at night, attracting countless tourists to experience the lively atmosphere here.

In addition, Singapore's Night Zoo is also a must-see attraction. Here, visitors can enjoy the nocturnal wildlife and feel the unique atmosphere that is different from the daytime. Strolling along the paths of the night zoo, accompanied by the sounds of insects and animal calls, it is as if you are deep in the jungle and close to nature.

Overall, Singapore's night scene is not only a visual feast, but also a spiritual journey. Here, one can feel the perfect blend of modernity and tradition, prosperity and serenity, which makes one linger and leave wonderful memories.