#safe rafting trips

[azcanyonrafting]

Rafting River Routes

Explore the best rafting river routes in the Grand Canyon with the expert help of Advantage Grand Canyon!

[lucalicatteart]

Poll adventure (paventure? lol) Day 10: read the small story tidbit below the poll for more details, OR just vote based on initial impression

(✦ see past poll results + further information HERE (link) ✦)

Yesterday's poll decided that The Adventurer should join the travelers on the larger river boat for a short lunch ...

~

"Before he even fully musters the courage to shout a 'hello', the large group on the boat initiates contact first, gleefully waving at him, whooping and shouting as they near his tiny raft in the water. Apparently, some of them were betting over whether they'd actually find any other travelers out on the river today.. He fumbles over his words a bit, as always, but somehow manages to successfully get himself invited onto their boat for a quick lunch..

After safely securing his raft to the side of the boat with some spare rope, he climbs aboard, stumbling into the excitement of some sort of celebration. A few of them explain that they're traveling for 'kahesallei', an old elven holiday recently re-popularized in some of the larger cities nearby. Whatever it's true meaning and origins used to be, the current significance (at least to those within the city walls) seems to just be mindless feasting, drinking, and gaudy decor. Most of the traveling group are strangers to each other, only brought together by catching a ride on the same tour/party boat, but the mood is light, quite friendly between them, and perhaps a bit drunk.

While the boat itself is relatively plain wood, it's been strewn with gold and orange banners, flags, shimmery tassels, beads, and bushels of dark green ivy braided with fresh herbs and wildflowers. There are flat round tables of food and drink, plenty of cushions to lounge on, and one random guy perched precariously on the edge railing of the boat, gently strumming a lute for background music..

The elderly ship captain hobbles over to The Adventurer, sternly explaining that, no matter what the 'silly' passengers say, he's only allowed to stay for an hour because he didn't pay for a boat ride ticket, and thus really shouldn't even be allowed on board. By the time The Adventurer has mentally processed this information, the captain has already returned to his little steering room, slamming the door shut with a displeased grunt.. It probably wouldn't be a good idea to confront him or question the rules...... But! Hey, at least he has one hour at the party.. How should he spend his time? "

~

Additional Information

the adventurer's current main goal: follow his map to reach the abandoned castle ruins and see the rare animal specialist about the mysterious egg he has

[chai-berries]

all my friends support palestine and will click and share this link to spread awareness

Come to my Lake House (#3)

Jerry bought the cabin on the lake when Abby went into middle school. The following summer, she invited her new Salt Lake City friends out to the lake. That started the tradition of going straight from the last day of school celebrations to the lake house for a long weekend. They’d come busting in through the cabin’s french doors, dropping gym bags and jansports backpacks into a perfect trip hazard pile by the door. Grabbing a slice of watermelon that Abby helped cut up and greet Jerry, who was in charge of the grill, before splitting off to do different lake house activities.

And the lake house itself is surrounded by so many things to do. From looking for newts in the water to trying out the infamous rope swing. Hiking in the forest that surrounds the majority of the house.

Don’t forget the traditional summer games like cornhole and horseshoes. Once Jerry even set up crochet — but he had to immediately return the game for the safety of the extremely competitive friend group.

This tradition continued past high school and college and budding careers. Eventually, Jerry didn’t feel the need to tag along with them and the group continued using the lake house as a place to escape from their corporate jobs and hectic schedules.

A year into your relationship with Abby, you got to see the cabin in all it’s glory. Abby didn’t have to ask you twice when she invited you, as you’ve been craving a nice cool lake for ages, work kicking your ass. You packed your swim gear, your journals, and books to keep you entertained throughout the trip. Abby had spent the drive up to the lake chattering your ear off about all the things she wanted to show you.

She wanted to take you to a cool cliff side view about three miles from the cabin. And the fire pit with the perfect view of the sky above between the trees. She was also just genuinely excited to be with you, playing in the sun. You practically radiated the star. With your silly jokes and pretty laugh. Whenever you guys went hiking, you’d practically be skipping down the trails, playing in the spotlights of the sun along the way. Your face under the light of the bright sun gave Abby butterflies every time. She couldn’t wait to share with you all the sights she loved so much.

The lake picnic happens three days into the trip. Manny, Abby, and Jordan drag Manny’s jet skis into the water. You help Nora carry the basket of sandwiches she painstakingly made for everyone, with specialty diets considered. Everyone had their beers, sodas, and sparkling waters tucked between their legs. There’s a giant wooden raft in the middle of the lake that they were using as base. Once the food is safely put on the base, alongside Jordan and Leah who were gonna swim in the water around it, the jet skis are revved up and the races begin. Manny and Whitney get on one while Nora takes the second. Abby invites you to ride with her and how could you say no?

Once you’re situated, your thighs against hers and arms around her waist, she floors it. She starts with big circles around the lake as she gives you a scenic tour of the greenery around it. But soon after, she’s pulling tricks to make you shriek. She drives by the others, causing waves that rock them. Manny almost takes you both out when he retaliates with his own jet ski tricks. The two of them start to race, with you and Whitney holding on for dear life.

Abby drops you off at the raft before doing a switch around with Leah, who takes the jet ski and Abby goes over to join you. She plops down next to you on the edge of the raft, her legs and feet submerged in the water next to yours. You had collected a bag of chips, one Pepsi and one La Croix before you sat down and you quickly pass the sparkling water drink to her before she even notices it. She thanks you with a simple kiss on your temple.

You both sit there, talking and sunning yourselves until Manny drags Abby off to a beer chugging competition with Leah and Jordan. You and Nora get to properly catch up as you wait for Abby to come back. Smiley and a little buzzed, she does come back and she immediately holds her hand out to you.

“Let’s swim, baby!” You give in once you see she’s not drunk and you trust she won’t drown on you. You guys walk over to the corner of the raft where no one is at and jump into the lake. You do a simple dive but Abby, after waiting for you to pop back up to the surface to watch her, does a running start and cannonballs into the water with a big splash. You close your eyes as the water hits your face and don’t open them until you feel Abby’s hands at your waist.

You open your eyes to see Abby’s own eyes practically glowing with mischief, the blue darker in some places and light in others. You tell her you “love her pretty eyes” and she pinks up, pressing a smooch to your smiling lips. You push away from her to float on your back, the girl doggy paddling next to you until you guys are further away from the raft.

“Hey,” Abby rasps out against the water pushing her around. “Wanna play mermaids?”

You bark out a laugh. “Okay, but I get to be the purple-tailed one.”

Abby laughs, agreeing. “I wanted to be green anyway.”

And like two little girls, you and Abby play mermaids for what feels like hours, swimming around each other and the logs and rocks that coat the river floor.

It is when you’re laughing so hard at her impression of her “pet seahorse” that can’t stop nuzzling up to you for “pets and kisses” that you realize you hadn’t seen any of your friends in a while.

“Wait, Abby? What time is it?”

The girl pulls back and looks at her wrist where her waterproof watch shines the time back to her. “Oh, shit we’ve been over here for two hours?!” Abby’s flabbergasted face pulls a laugh out of you. You kiss her wet pout.

You guys had managed to swim pretty far away from the raft and when you finally get to it, you notice that while the coolers were still on the raft, your friends are gone. You climb onto the raft and look around. The sun’s in your eyes and you have to cup your hand by your eyes to block it out in order to see.

“HELLO??!?” Abby walks around the raft calling for Manny and Nora or anyone.

Finally you hear Manny screaming Abby’s name. You see him on land by the house, waving his arms.

“Where the hell have you guys been?” He yells across the water.

“We were swimming!” Abby yells back. She looks back at you and rolls her eyes.

You see Manny move — his hands are now placed on his hips. “You get your asses over here! Dinner is almost done! Dios mios! No me jodas! I thought you guys died!”

“Sorry, Manny!” you yell back. You then turn to Abby.

“How are we supposed to get back?” You groan. “I’m fucking exhausted from mermaids, but they took the jet skis back.”

Abby scans the area and indeed they took both jet skis back. But that doesn’t deter her.

“I’ll go swim to get the jet ski and then come back and get you.”

Now you normally would say no but you can’t argue the fact that Abby’s stamina is way higher than yours on a good day. You’re exhausted but Abby is still bouncing around, full of energy. She dives into the water and swims to a jet ski. It takes her a quick minute to mount and start it, but soon she’s cruising towards you.

“Thank you, Abs.” You take her helpful hand to climb on behind her. And you wrap your arms tight around her waist to hold on as she drives you both back to shore. Manny is still there, looking exactly like a latina mother irritated with her children. He hands you both towels and gestures for you to follow him back up to the house.

“Thanks, mom!” Abby teases Manny. She just barely dodges his smack aimed at the back of her head and ducks behind you as protection. You put your toughest face on as you guard your girlfriend. Manny laughs at your attempt and rolls his eyes. “That’s cute, sister. Like a rottweiler hiding behind a pomeranian…”

“Aye,” you scold Manny, waggling your finger at him.

“Leave my girl alone. Pomeranians are ankle biters. Which means I’mma getcha!” you put your fists up, punching the air near his face. Manny gets into a defensive pose, bopping around in place like a video game character in create mode, which makes Abby cackle behind you.

“Hey, bitches!” You three turn your heads to the house where Nora is standing in the doorway. “Food is done. Get your asses in here,” she walks back into the house.

Manny straightens up. “Best not keep the cook waiting. She hid the chocolate for the s’mores when I kept asking when dinner would be done.” His face pulls into a deep drown like a scolded child. You laugh and shove him in front of you. Abby shuffles over to walk next to you, placing her arm over your shoulder. You slide your hand around her waist and walk the rest of the way glued to the hip. Manny was inside by the time you both got to the porch stairs. You could hear him reenacting the moment he saw you guys on the raft to the rest of the crew.

“You wanna go get changed?” Abby quietly asks. You nod and follow her up the stairs to your shared bedroom. She grabs her clothes from her bag and chivalrously goes into the bathroom to change, allowing you to have the bedroom to yourself. Making do without a shower, you put on a sweatshirt and shorts.

You’re sitting on the bed, putting on socks when Abby comes back in. She’s wearing her go to track pants and the thrifted harley-davidson shirt you bought her months ago. It has holes in the collar and along other seams, but it’s soft, light, and has a picture of a half naked lady sitting on a motorcycle. So safe to say it’s one of Abby’s favorite shirts. She joins you, putting on her own wool socks. You both get up to head downstairs but she stops you in the doorway.

“Hey, wait,” she pulls you towards her until you're close enough for her to lean in and press a long kiss to your lips. You smile into it and tug Abby even closer.

She eventually pulls away and you watch her lick her lips. Her cheeks are rosy red. She doesn’t say anything, just scans her eyes all over your face.

“You good, baby?” you ask, playing with the hairs at the nape of her neck, comforting her without hesitation.

“Yeah,” Abby coughs. “I’m just, like, really gay, sorry.”

“What?!?” you squawk out. The snort that she pulls from you is embarrassing but the way Abby’s face is so serious makes it come out of you. “You're dumb as hell! God, I love you.”

“Aw,” Abby cooes. She brushes a finger along the apple of your cheek. “I like you too!”

You roll your eyes at her smirk. “Shut up!” you joke, shoving her shoulder back. She barely moves, her stance planted.

“Hey! I was kidding! C’mere! I am sorry baby!” Abby apologizes. “I love you so so much!” She kisses your temple repeatedly.

You can’t help but pout at how fast you are able to forgive her, jokes aside. You’re a fucking sap for her.

You guys head back downstairs and into the dining area where everyone is devouring Nora’s gourmet tacos. There’s a spot for you and Abby saved, with empty plates waiting. The cups are filled with something non-alcoholic that sits in a glass jug next to your place mat.

“Damn, Nora,” Abby comments when she sits down. “My plans for my dinner seem subpar to yours.”

Nora smiles. “Shut up. But thank you. I’ve made these a few times already and they hit every time. So please, y’all, eat it up!”

The rest of the table cheers unanimously and then they settle back down, eating and enjoying the company around the table as the sun sets. It turns into twilight, then dusk, before everyone finally disperses from the table. Since tonight is Jordan and Leah’s turn to do dishes, Abby invites you to sit outside with her. The stars are bright out here and you take a moment to look at all of them in the sky. Abby takes that time to look at you.

“Do you know any of the stars?” She asks

You continue looking upwards. “I wish but no. You?”

“Nah,” she clicks her tongue. “I was honestly hoping you’d know.”

You laugh at her response, looking away from the sky. Abby’s holding back a smile when you look at her. She points over your shoulder.

“We have some chairs over here.”

There are lounge chairs sitting on an overlook of a small cement patio and campfire area. Abby tells you about building the fire pit a few summers ago with her dad. She sits down on one and before she even has time to say something, you nudge her thigh with your knee.

You look positively bashful. Abby’s thankful for the lanterns surrounding the area that alight your face for her. “Can I sit with you?”

“Of course, yeah, c’mere,” Abby scoots a bit back on the chair and spreads her legs so you can sit between them. You eagerly settle in against her warm chest. It’s not too hot or cold tonight — perfect summer night weather. She wraps her arms around your shoulders. Goosebumps arise on her skin where your hands run down her arms until you bring her forearms up to your chin, encouraging her to snuggle closer. Abby smiles into the back of your head and she tightens her arms around you. You both lay there, Abby pressing random kisses onto your head and you respond to them with kisses of your own to her arm.

“Thanks for coming up here with me. I know it can be a bit overwhelming with everyone but I’m happy you’re here,” Abby says into the night. You lean your head back so you can look up at Abby. She looks down at you, instinctively closing her eyes when you put a hand on her cheek.

“Thank you for inviting me. I’ve been having a lot of fun. It’s nice to see the crew… unleashed.” You shoot her a wry grin. Abby knows exactly what you’re referencing as she was also witness to Leah and Manny’s rock, paper, scissors turned arm wrestle turned into actual wrestling over who got to have the big inflatable dragon. Apparently, Abby had told you, they had to take turns because this wasn’t the first inflatable those two fought over but it is the only one that still inflates.

Abby leans her head back, groaning. “God I was so embarrassed when they did that!”

You snort. “What do you mean?”

“I don’t know,” Abby shrugs, looking sheepish. “I wanted to impress you with this trip and there goes my best friends fighting over an inflatable floatie.”

“What are you talking about?” You move your entire body 90 degrees around so you can look at her, your legs now swung over one of Abby’s. There’s an exasperated but extremely adorable expression on your face. “I love your friends. They are your family. And they’re funny as hell. You have to come camping with my family — we get crazy on the river. Just you wait,” you hum, looking up at the sky.

Abby slyly leans closer to you. She can’t help the grin that grows on her face. “Yeah? I’m going camping with your family now?”

You look over at her and smile. “I mean yeah, my family already invited you without me even asking. It’s going to be twenty of us so you better be prepared for that whole circus,” you tease. Abby shares your smile. She’s met some of your family but only in short bursts. She met a few of them before you guys even started officially dating. They loved her as much as she loved them. “Just be prepared for the fly fishing because it’s a requirement while camping with us.”

Abby scoffs. “Don’t worry. I’m sure I’ll catch the biggest fish.”

You cup her cheek and bring her face closer to yours. “I’m sure you will, baby.” You coo. You lean forward and press your lips against hers in a slow kiss. She keeps you there with a hand on your neck, nudging your lips open with hers, your tongue enthusiastically meeting hers. You can’t help the moan you let out that vibrates against Abby’s lips, encouraging her own moans. It’s deep, slow, and full of love as she keeps you firmly tethered to her. When you finally pull away, it’s to look at Abby’s pretty face in the flickering lantern lights.

“Did you know,” you start. Your hand is still on Abby’s cheek and you take the time to delicately brush your thumb against the apple of her cheek. “That you are so fucking pretty?” You lean in to kiss her freckled cheek. The smooch is exaggeratedly loud in order to bring a laugh out of Abby. She pretends to lean away from you but is secretly enjoying the attention you give her face as you lay kisses all over her face, repeating “so pretty” under your breath after each kiss.

You continue to smooch her face until she is giggling so hard that you can’t stop smiling at the sound, which makes keeping your lips puckered very difficult. You reluctantly pull away, taking the time to brush loose hair from Abby’s face. Her giggles subside and she watches as you comb her hair back.

The stars and tree line behind you give Abby a view she could stare at all day, your soft expression as you look at her warming her more than any bonfire could. This is exactly what she wanted when she invited you to come up here with her. You, her, the stars, the soundtrack of a summer night floating around you. No work, no appointments. No other distractions besides her best friends, who adore you and have no problem leaving you two alone to enjoy your time together. No real interruptions for an entire week. And Abby is going to take full advantage of the full week to love on you as much as she can.

She presses a kiss to your cheek. “C’mon,” she gestures for you to go back to your earlier positions, your back against her front. You both spend the rest of the evening sharing kisses and inventing random constellations out of the stars above you.

[sealofarchives]

Beach/Pool Headcanon Mini-scenario

A/N: Another one of the wip drafts. idk I want to go out but the heat wave is like nah TT A TT

Warnings: some mention of suggestive scenes (more towards light teasing fluff so get your head out of the gutter >:[)

Donnie

He'll be in slight denial that he doesn't need your help with his unfortunate fear towards beach balls but...

- He will at least cling on to you once or twice during the trip. (especially when some group of kids accidentally toss the ball near him)

Has a separate battle shell mainly as an extra beverage storage space. (he did lie about having extra ice during that one man vs sewer episode from one of his other battle shells so... He probably made this one as another bored invention idea until some heat waves finally gave a good purpose for it)

- He'll still ask for something in return so just be aware of that, if you really want a cool drink from him. Just be glad he's somewhat nicer to you and April because, there were a few times where the power slowly got to his head during a heat wave where the air conditioner was broken for a few weeks...

He will definitely bug you about putting on sunscreen. (whether or not, you already had some before the road trip started)

- But the moment he sees you struggling to put some on your back, he'll silently help you despite his discomfort with the lotion's greasy texture. And his curiosity gets the best of him, briefly catching sight of your bare chest once you put your shirt back on. As he uses a towel to get rid of the leftover sunscreen on his hands.

"I don't mind you looking respectfully~"

"Please do not suggest such thoughts to my mind. Since you forgot to apply said sunscreen before meeting up at the rendezvous point..."

Sometimes observes marine life by the beach. Following the usual guidelines at a safe distance but...

- Very much glares at seagulls. One of them will always steal some french fry or other piece of food from him. You pretty much have to hold him back before he starts causing a scene at these feathery fiends.

Definitely takes naps on one of his float rings or inflatable pool float rafts.

- His brothers will always try to stack something on his shell before he wakes up from the giggling or the weight annoying him in his sleep.

He doesn't mind either the pool or beach and will probably list the pro vs cons towards those two.

- However, if he has to be the one to balance out a potential tiebreaker. He slightly leans in favor of pools. Easier to sneak into at night and replace the security footage with his edited video of no one in sight during the time frame you guys were there.

Leo

One of the few times, he'll help Donnie with planning ahead for the beach and/or pool trip, because he's excited to go there.

- A little more towards the beach than the pool. There's more sights to see near the beach and while he likes the lazy approach of the pool. The beach just fits that part of the aquatic turtle in him.

If everyone ends up lounging around the pool, he'll easily get bored of it.

- He'll likely bother you first so his brothers can enjoy the chill vibe. Before Raph gets the uneasy feeling, you somehow got wrapped up in some part of the red slider turtle's scheme for a playful prank.

Slightly decent at beach volleyball but, still not the greatest at surfing.

- Sometimes includes mystic powers into beach volleyball but, only when the coast is clear. (Often being around the late hours which is very rare.) Doesn't practice surfing as much he wants to and will often have some seaweed on his head after crashing from a bad wave. A few bumps and bruises on his knees when he's not that careful. And sort of gives up after a few hours before focusing his attention on something else.

Likes to pretend he's your personal tour guide. Knowing the ideal places for the best time, well spent for these summer getaways.

- He tries to keep note of the upcoming events so he can surprise you with something different to end the night with. Granted he might slip up on some details since he's a bit busy with the leader duty so... Its one of the rare instances he's nervous around you.

Sometimes a little thief when it comes to your food. Sneaking a bite from a sandwich you've been craving for in a long while or swapping a bag of chips he's almost done with yours that you just opened.

- Used to take a few sips from your drink. Until Donnie had a smirk explaining...

"A big shame that's your first kiss with (Y/N)."

"You could have easily gone with the classic kiss on the lips but..."

"Nardo decided to settle with an indirect kiss-"

The red slider turtle sat in the turtle taxi with a 30 minute timeout. No regrets or shame yeeting a beach ball via a surprise portal behind his softshell turtle brother.

Has a really bad habit staring at you whenever you're in awe at some event taking place during sunset or the night sky being generous enough to send a cool gentle breeze in your direction.

- You literally take his breath away sometimes that it can almost feel suffocating, when its just the two of you together. In full denial while having a blushing face saying nothing's wrong. Really hoping you don't notice how much these moments really mean to him.

Raph

Tries to end the evening with a beach bonfire with just the two of you. Often with him starting a friendly competition of who could gather the most driftwood. So he doesn't accidentally stumble on his words in an attempt to ask you out on an actual date.

- Sadly, the moment doesn't last that long with his family surprising you guys with s'mores and other treats before Raph lets you win.

However, Leo sometimes helps out through a subtle manner so he's a bit of a wingman to Raph. So Raph's slightly getting better at this plan.

Sometimes leans into you because of your body heat and the hot weather making him a bit sleepy.

- Regardless how you feel about your skin, he still thinks its really soft.

He almost wanted to throw Leo or Donnie into ocean because... According to Mikey, one of them got a photo of Raph's face almost a little too close to resting beside your thighs. You still reassured him not to worry about it. Especially getting back at those two with a little prank you have been wanting to try on them.

Whether you're short or tall, Raph wants to make sure you get the best seat in the house. So you're sometimes sitting on his shoulder to get a better view.

- He still asks if some of the spiky scales are hurting you but, you usually use your hoodie/jacket or spare towel as extra protection to avoid hurting his feelings.

Very much sneaks up on his brothers while pretending to be shark whenever he's swimming (both pool or beach)

- Almost got in trouble when Mikey's scream broke one of the glass windows at an indoor pool place. So he only wears the fake fin on his shell unless they're sneaking to a pool at night.

Really likes the crunch sound from biting into crabs and/or lobster shells.

- While his wallet will take a hit, the alligator snapping turtle is just very happy to enjoy the once a year surf and turf restaurant experience.

And very much unaware of his brothers and Splinter's expressions, with a tiny bit of worry how strong the red one's bite really is.

More likely to pick the beach and might be slightly indifferent to pools.

- He can sort of tolerate the overcrowded energy from the beach but, the pool might be more unbearable if the place can't make room for him. Similar to Donnie's choice in favor of the pool, its better at night especially when surveillance cameras are temporary on hold by the purple turtle's tech.

Mikey

Given how he's the shortest of his siblings, he prefers to stick by the shallow waters of the pool.

- And a few horror themed movie nights along with some documentary videos of his turtle counterpart not being the best at swimming, kind of made him afraid towards the idea of swim training at night.

Likes to wander around seaside themed shops for potential souvenirs.

- He tries to limit himself to just one. Or at least something that captures the vibes of the trip. And when he can't, he's more content to put that idea for the next art project.

Instantly picks the beach over the pool. He still doesn't mind either of the two options but, he can probably name more fun ideas close to the beach.

- Especially more excited by new or returning events near the boardwalk.

Even if you're wearing the most tackiest or boring swimsuit, Mikey will still give a heartfelt compliment to your beach/pool outfit.

- Although he'll really blush more if you go all out with all sorts of vibrant orange colors.

Always likes to get you snacks or a few drinks by the boardwalk.

- He might have said a few white lies to get a discount for couple's only ones but, all that matters to him is that you're having a good time!

Since you gave the okay that he can draw you sometimes, the beach setting is where he truly shines in his artistic vision.

- But, there's been times where he's hesitant to show his sketchbook to you. Often blushing at you when the sunset gives the perfect angle showcasing your beauty. Or his brothers giving him embarrassing feedback mostly at his work in progress sketch, not at you.

[see-arcane]

I’m glad it isn’t someone else.

I’m glad it isn’t another loss of the desperate, the poor, the threatened, the forsaken masses scraped off the consciousness and consciences of those steeped in wealth and power who couldn’t be bothered to care as they drowned.

(Thousands have died and disappeared in the waters of migrant routes. Some make it to the shore. Some are sequestered in camps. Some of them are forced back out and abandoned on rafts in the middle of the sea. Where are their spotlights after the flavor of their misery fades in a day?)

I’m glad it isn’t a brave group there for a good cause rather than a VIP in-person death tour of a submerged mass grave of the unfortunate and abandoned, a trip embarked on only for the sake of its exclusivity.

(Any commoner can look at the pictures of the site on a screen. What’s the point if just anyone can do it?)

I’m glad it isn’t people who had no idea what they were risking, who didn’t have a slew of repeated ignored warnings from experts, repeated ignored signs of danger, repeated ignored near-misses leading up to the sight of the vessel itself, sat inside a tin can that bolts from the outside and steers with a shoddy knockoff of an outdated toy.

(They paid enough per person to save lives. Enough to cover a year’s expenses for whole families. Enough to do something, anything better, for personal pleasure or for the paupers. $250,000 a seat. On a whim. For a little jaunt. In that. Which they saw with their own eyes before ever taking off their shoes and crouching inside. With the ink still wet on the waivers.)

I’m glad it isn’t the story of five people who didn’t know better, who were on a mission, who did not make their respective livings on monetizing a tragedy with exorbitant fees for a ride in a vessel proven again and again to be unsafe and cheaply built, or selling private jets to those wealthy parties who see personal planes as a little treat that’s well worth the cash and carbon emission, or being a billionaire and his college-age son sitting at the head of a company with a stranglehold on energy, fertilizer and chemical production, or being an apparent expert on deep dives and submersibles and having an entire career built around being ‘Mr. Titanic.’

(Five whole lives in that sinking can. Five lives untouched by any of the hundreds of pains and evils and clockwork despair that afflict the majority of the world’s population simply because they did not have money or privilege enough to be permitted a life that isn’t a constant struggle, let alone one of safety or happiness on demand. (No, of course you can’t buy happiness. But the items and actions needed to get to happiness all seem to come with a price tag.))

I’m glad it isn’t yet another update on how yet another group of people who luck never bothered with are suffering and dying for no other reason than their own disposability in the eyes of those who could simply cease to worsen the lives of anyone not themselves, and choose not to.

(Prince Prospero and his friends are safe in the palace and its endless party. The poor are locked out and the Red Death—all Death!—is barred with them. Life has proven they are blessed. Wealth has, anyway, which is just the same. Have enough of it, and nothing can hurt you. Nothing at all. (Who is that gauche man in the bloody mask?))

I’m glad it isn’t someone else.

(It is horror in itself to imagine. The most merciful thought is that implosion made it quick. The unfit window gave way and the crush of the ocean took them all too fast for them to know what happened. Painless. They’re already so much whalefall and the opportunists in the water will leave no scraps of them. But if they are alive?

(It’s too much. Far, far too much.

(No contact, no response. Perhaps even a power failure. It could be they’re sitting in perfect darkness. Even the vacuum of space has starlight. But there’s nothing down there, where they remain too deep for the sun, too high for the twinkle of bioluminescent fish to trundle by the glass.

(Can they steer? Can they move at all? They would come up if they could. They haven’t. Forward, then? Back? Or just endlessly down and down and down until they meet the carcass of the ship they risked their lives to visit up close? Would it be better or worse if a current knocked them along and away from the site? Irony might be a knife too many down there, their lives dwindling away in the extravagant paupers’ graveyard the sea has kept private to all but those endowed enough to come and gawp.

(Even if they reached the surface, even if they survived the nigh inevitable attack of decompression sickness, even then, the only way out is bolted shut from the exterior. They could sit like a bottle on the waves, peering out at the sky and the air and the seabirds, still waiting. Still dying. Clawing at a door that will never budge without somebody to open it for them, as doors have always been opened for them.

(The air is thinning. How much have they dared to waste on talk? Screams, shouts, sobs? Can they even muster the nerve to void their bowels in the convenient plastic baggies that stand in for a toilet when it risks the stench of waste crowding the oxygen? Did they eat before they descended? Or did they hold off, daydreaming of an ample seafood buffet when they returned to shore, filleted and steamed and ringed with little dishes of sauce and butter? Is there food aboard, or was that disregarded as too much clutter, too much risk?

(If they are alive, they are stranded. They are suffocating. They are starving.

(And if they are very desperate, very angry, and very aware, all at once, of what their host—the CEO wielding the off-brand toy with a history of defective operation as their controls, who sued the employee who tried to warn them of the vessel’s faults, who insisted that safety was a waste, who bolted them in a coffin he himself must have trusted to bend the rules of physics and regulation and reality itself in his favor as every other factor of life had bent for him before—has damned them to, perhaps there’s at least one less set of lungs to worry about.

(It's a horrendous idea, of course. Unthinkable. It always is until it isn’t.

(Just like it would be unthinkable to be in the situation those five are in, if they’re alive enough to have any situation now.

(Just like it would be unthinkable to have anyone else in that situation.

(Except.

(Who would that anyone else be, if not these million-and-billionaires?

(Other wealthy travelers lost under water and waivers? The ship up top waited hours before contacting the Coast Guard after they lost contact with the submersible, and that was with the CEO onboard. How long would they have waited for others? Would they have told anyone if they didn’t know there was important kin and associates waiting onshore for news?

(Or perhaps it would be those passionate enough to save and save and save for the chance, for one single extraordinary moment, burning what would be a fortune to them and pocket change to the sunken five, just for all that patience, work, and frugality to be repaid with this? Another handful of nobodies lost to a tragedy born of carelessness and callousness. A lawsuit would ensue, perhaps. No less, no more.

(And the world wouldn’t have batted a lash. Not for lack of care, but for it’s very mundanity. 

(Every day. Every day. Innocent people, good people, people living on tightropes and tripwires of varying levels of menace just because they exist in circles that have never and will never graze the gilded impenetrability of the 0.01% who own and choke the planet, they fall to pain and destruction like meat into a grinder. All while that blessed 0.01% rarely, if ever, have a brush with silly things like hardship or consequences or consideration. There are no real Ebenezer Scrooges.

(Though I would like there to be. I’d like a whole miraculous gaggle of them to be rescued from the sea. I want them to come stumbling from their carbon fiber casket, alive and altered. I’d like to see the CEO, the architect of said death trap who has sent multiple people down to those depths without thought to safety or science, to be skewered by his passengers, by the press, by a lifetime of reprisals for all he dared to tout as an enterprise far too innovative to bother with regulation or care for human life. I’d like to see revelations and second thoughts blossom in the survivors and the naysaying corporate heads who sneer at the lag and cost of proper safety measures, of the well-being of people other than themselves, of the powerful reality of nature.

(I’d like a miracle. But if there isn’t?)

I’m glad it isn’t someone else.

[cha-melodius]

2023 Writing Roundup

Thanks to @welcometololaland, @rmd-writes, @kiwiana-writes, and @orchidscript for tagging me for this one. I'm also going to say thanks to everyone who tagged me in the ao3 wrapped or other round up type things; I've been putting off doing my annual writing year-in-review because I always post it on the 30th or 31st. This one is new to me and I figured why not, I'll do it now. I published 31 fics this year (so far!), so safe to say I'm putting this partly under a cut to save your dashes.

JANUARY

How’s About Cookin’ Something Up With Me? (TMFU, T, 4k) Teachers AU, Napoleon helps Illya bake cookies for a holiday party.

Love is a Deserter (TMFU, T, 3k) Post breakup getting back together fic.

True Hollywood Romance (Lokius, M, 8k) Actors AU, fake dating, Mobius and Loki have a PR relationship that turns real.

It's Been a Bad Day Lately (Lokius, T, 17k) Time loop, Loki has to try to figure out how to defeat a deadly Kang variant and save the man he loves all at once.

FEBRUARY

All for a Taste of the Honey (RWRB, E, 6k) FBI Agents AU, Henry goes undercover as a stripper and Alex has a lot of feelings about that.

MARCH

All Comes Crashing (TMFU, E, 5.6k) Illya has one night left to live and is forced to admit the feelings he's been holding back.

Nova, Baby (RWRB, E, 67k) CIA/MI6 AU, forced to work together by their respective agencies, Alex and Henry take on high-stakes missions and fall in love.

APRIL

Kiss Me Like You Mean It (Firstprince, Napollya, Lokius, T) Various T-rated ficlets featuring kisses.

MAY

All the Old Showstoppers (RWRB, E, 20k) Canon-divergent AU where Alex and Henry compete in the Great Celebrity Bake Off.

The Sky is Open (RWRB, E, 5k) 1970s Pan-Am pilots AU (with a twist!).

Just a Shot Away from You (TMFU, T, 4k) Five times Napoleon and Illya were ordered to kill each other, and one where everyone decides they’ve had enough.

JUNE

Tiny Little Movies (RWRB, various ratings) A drabble collection based on drabble prompts from the Brownstone discord server.

JULY

Always Where I Need To Be (RWRB, T, 5k) Alex's new roommate has a puppy with a penchant for stealing his glasses.

AUGUST

Please Don't Let Me Be So Understood (RWRB, E, 20k) Couples Therapy AU, Alex and Henry are workplace enemies and accidentally end up in couples therapy.

Black Moon (TMFU, E, 6k) For All Mankind AU, Napoleon and Illya are astronauts living on moon bases.

That's My Trouble (RWRB, M, 6k) Detective/ME AU, aka 'Rizzoli and Isles AU', Alex shows up bleeding on Henry's doorstop.

Theory and Practice (RWRB, T, 4k) My 100th fic! Grad students AU, former hookups turned enemies to friends to lovers.

Getting Clinical (RWRB, T, 2k) Non-famous AU, Alex and Henry meet at a sexual health clinic.

Cold Light (Lokius, M, 4k) Human AU, Loki and Mobius meet in Norway and their relationship grows under the northern lights.

Step Into My Office, Baby (RWRB, E, 2k) Office AU, friends to lovers, three scenes in a corner office.

The Harrowed and the Haunted (TMFU, T, 3k) Paranormal investigators AU, Napoleon and Illya visit a haunted house.

SEPTEMBER

Will You Brie Mine? (RWRB, T, 6k) Non-famous AU, Henry sells cheese at Harrods Food Halls and Alex is his best customer.

Lessons in Foreign Diplomacy (RWRB, E, 5k) Post-American Revolution AU, Alex and Henry are ambassadors to the court of Versailles from their respective countries.

Something To Be Proud Of (RWRB, M, 3k) Non-famous AU, Alex volunteers at Edinburgh Pride and Henry makes an embarrassing email typo.

Enemies of the Ocean (Lokius, T, 3k) Human AU, Loki and Mobius are stranded at sea on a life raft together.

OCTOBER

Falling Down the Stairs of Your Smile (RWRB, M, 4k) Canon divergence AU, Alex stays another night after the hospital trip and their relationship gets a jump start.

In the Dog Days (RWRB, T, 6k) Modern magic AU, Alex is jealous and suspicious of Henry's shapeshifter boyfriend, David.

NOVEMBER

Taste the Way You Bleed (RWRB, T, 4k) WWDITS AU, the Super Six are all vampires living in the same house, and Alex and Henry still hate each other (until they don't).

DECEMBER

This Hell of a Season (RWRB, E, 21k) currently posting Nova-verse missing scenes and sequels, 3 times Alex & Henry spent Christmas on missions and 1 when they didn't.

[Redacted] (TMFU) My fill for the annual TMFU winter holiday gift exchange.

WHEW. Ok, tagging! @cricketnationrise, @heytheredeann, @mirilyawrites, @loki-is-my-kink-awakening, @dewdropreader, @celaestis1, @myheartalivewrites, @14carrotghoul, @clottedcreamfudge, @indomitable-love, @dumbpeachjuice, @indestructibleheart, @lizzie-bennetdarcy, @inexplicablymine, @sherryvalli, @iboatedhere, @tintagel-or-cockleshells, @leaves-of-laurelin, @three-drink-amy, and anyone else who wants to play.

[weirdowithaquill]

Traintober 2023: Day 23 - Big World

The blue tank engine pulled into the Big Station with his coaches, spotting the Fat Controller standing on the platform. “Ah, Thomas! Thank you for sorting out those vans earlier – I can’t believe they missed those on this morning’s Kipper.” “Not a problem sir!” Thomas said, an idea bubbling in his boiler. Surely he’d be able to convince the Fat Controller that a grand trip around the world was a perfect marketing strategy! Sir Topham Hatt was always looking for new ways to bring tourists to the railway after all.

“I’ve had an idea! How would you like it, sir, if one of your engines could be the very first to go right the way around the world?”

As Thomas prodded the Fat Controller for an affirmation, he didn’t notice a certain Great Western engine at the other platform, listening in closely.

***

Thomas thought he’d made a safe getaway, right up until he heard a pointed cough from behind him. “Well, Thomas, what’re we doing now?” “Duck?!” The Great Western Pannier tank sat in the hold behind the blue tank engine, with a pointed eyebrow raised. “What’re you doing here?!”

Duck coughed pointedly. “I came to stop you. You can’t go galivanting off across the planet! You need to let Carly lift you back onto the dockside this instant!” “Um… Duck…” “What?” “The boat’s moving.”

Duck went a very interesting shade of red, and said nothing for a little while. Then…

“We’re going back as soon as we reach Dakar.”

Duck raised an eyebrow at Thomas as he was rather coldly rejected by Ace. As much as he wanted to go home… or maybe hop on that ship bound for Italy… he knew rather well that if someone didn’t chase after the idiot they called a Number One tank engine, Thomas would inevitably end up down a mine, white water rafting his way towards certain doom.

And once was enough.

“Thomas, how about we just… go to Dar-es-Salaam. We can maybe catch a boat back to Sodor from there.” “No Duck, we’re not going back now! We’re going a trip around the world – or at least, I am. You can go back to boring old Sodor and you’re little forgetful branchline.” Duck hissed crossly. “Forgetful! Says the engine that forgets his passenger trains every day and needs Stanley to pull Annie and Clarabel. At least I remember to do my work, instead of wandering off to freaking Africa!”

Thomas raised an unimpressed eyebrow.

“Oh? So why’re you here?” “Stopping you from doing something stupid. Again.” In lieu of a reply, Thomas puffed away, asking aloud whether or not it was possible to reach Dar-es-Salaam from Senegal. Duck wondered if Thomas had ever seen a map – there were no railway lines across the Sahara! And yet, the blue tank engine seemed to believe that if he just asked loudly enough, some random shunter would couple them up to a line of trucks and send them across the continent!

“Dar-es-Salaam? Are you going to Dar-es-Salaam?” Duck looked over, and saw several trucks all beam at the tank engine. “Oh no… oh no, Thomas—” “We’ve been waiting for you!” The trucks were hooked up to Thomas by a little shunter with side tanks and a stove pipe funnel. Duck watched on with interest. These trucks didn’t seem like the ones on Sodor.

“So you are the new engine?” asked the foreman, striding over from his office. “Well… I…” “We, are the new engines – sir,” Duck interjected. “But only for this run. We’re being transferred down to Dar-es-Salaam, so the railway thought it best we take the trucks with us.” “Two of you?” he asked slowly. “You are both so small though!” “Little engines can—” Duck cut off Thomas again.

“We are small, sir. But I’ve got plenty of water, and Thomas here is full of plenty of hot air.” “Hot air?!” “Oh! Like steam,” said the foreman. “It is… one of your…” “English jokes, sir,” Duck replied sweetly. Thomas went red in the face, and let out a great cloud of steam. Duck just sidled away to couple on behind.

***

The two quickly discovered just why the foreman had been so sceptical. They had been put on a slow pick-up goods, being halted at nearly every station between Dakar and Abuja to pick up and put down trucks. Thomas continued to watch in shock as five trucks became eight, then thirteen, then thirty!

Duck quietly uncoupled when the last lot were shunted onto the back of the train, and sidled up alongside.

“We’ll not make it across the rest of the continent with just the two of us.” “Yes we will!” spluttered Thomas. “I don’t even need you back there! All you’re doing is slowing me down!” Duck rolled his eyes. “Fine. I’ll find a brakevan for you, and you can continue alone.” “A brakevan? We haven’t needed one yet! The land is flat, Duck – the trucks can’t roll away!” Duck rolled his eyes. Every wise engine knows that brakevans aren’t just for runaway trains.

Nonetheless, Thomas did wait for the Great Western Pannier to find a brakevan, before heaving and groaning loudly as he tried his best to drag the heavy train away. Duck’s driver just shook his head in disbelief.

“First I let you talk me into this, then I let you talk me into not helping that struggling fool – I’m so losing my job.”

To his credit, Thomas did make it to the next shunting yard – but there, a large orange tank engine shunted ten more wagons onto the back of his train. Thomas winced as he felt them being coupled up.

“Um…” “Your face!” cackled the orange engine joyfully. “You really shouldn’t look so surprised – there are always a lot of trucks for Dar-es-Salaam, you know,” she added. Duck chuckled. “Oh, he knows,” he said with a smirk. “He’s just stubborn.” “I don’t need any help!” “See?” Thomas hissed steam at Duck, who puffed backwards to avoid it. “Well, I can help you,” offered the orange engine. Thomas glared. “No! I just said I don’t need your help - just watch me! I can do this… by myself!” The orange engine looked rather hurt. Duck sighed.

“Come on, he’ll wind up in a mess in a moment, and then he’ll change his tune. He always does.”

And Duck was – inevitably – right.

The orange engine’s name was Nia. And having saved Thomas from derailing (and then horrifying Duck by suddenly rushing backwards down a hill), she was easily accepted by the Pannier into the little group. Thomas, meanwhile, just sniffed.

“Couple up while you can,” Duck advised. “He’s a loose cannon, this one – he’ll have run off on you in a puff if could. Trust me.” Nia took the Pannier tank’s advice, and the pair helped push the heavy train up the rest of the hill – and then along the beautiful scenery of the Sahel region. Duck was enamoured with everything.

“I’ve always wanted to sail away and see the world,” he admitted to Nia quietly. “Just… to see what it’s like for myself.” “Oh, me too!” grinned Nia. “There’s one place I’ve heard of in China, called the Rainbow Mountains.” “Wow…” murmured Duck. “That would be incredible to see… Personally, I’ve always wanted to see Greece, or Italy. They say the views over the ocean are some of the best in the world.” The two smiled – perhaps, their journey wouldn’t be so bad after all…

And then Thomas spoke up.

“Will you two shut up! I’m going to be the first engine to travel around the world!” “Circumnavigate is the right word,” muttered Duck. “Well, you’ll need our help to get to Dar-es-Salaam at least,” smirked Nia. “Cause it’s 5000 miles away.”

Thomas spluttered and coughed for several minutes. “5000 miles?!” “Well, at least the trucks will help you,” hummed Nia. “Trucks? Helpful?! When pigs fly!” “The trucks back on the Great Western used to be helpful,” said Duck. “But that was because they knew the importance of being really useful.”

Thomas just rolled his eyes, and let the pair – and their ‘useful trucks’ start a sing-along.

***

Duck chuckled as he and Nia greeted Kwaku warmly. Behind them, Thomas tried to butt in and ask about Ace – but instead, Duck decided to indulge in the local greeting himself. “And how are you, Kwaku? How are your wheels, how is your boiler, how are your pistons? Have the tracks been taking you where you wish to run, and have the other engines been good to you?” Kwaku beamed.

“Now you! You understand the importance of knowing your fellow engines.” Duck chuckled. “Oh thank you. It’s similar to a greeting we had back on the Great Western – though, we just liked to ask: has all been well with you and your shedmates?” Kwaku and Nia both looked intrigued; Thomas blew his whistle loudly to get their attention.

“Excuse me! Have you seen a yellow rally car named Ace?!” “So rude!” sniffed Duck. “Interrupting a conversation like that.” Nia and Kwaku agreed. “Most disrespectful,” muttered Nia. “His designer would be ashamed,” agreed Kwaku. “Ashamed of every insult he makes against both his class and his home.” Duck sighed.

“Our railway is normally much nicer than the blue puffball makes out – he’s normally too. But recently… he’s been foisting off his duties on other engines so he can go galivanting off to my branchline to mess with the little engines.” “Little engines?” asked Nia. “They cannot be much smaller than Thomas, right?” Duck laughed; Thomas glowered.

***

Amazingly enough, Nia joined the pair on their next ship – this one bound for Rio de Janeiro. “Hopefully we’ll catch up with Ace there…” murmured Thomas. Duck grimaced. “I don’t like this Ace,” he said. “He seems like a bad influence. If such a car had come round Paddington…” “Then he’d have been the most interesting vehicle there,” snapped Thomas. Duck glared. “How dare you—” “I didn’t want to bring you, Montague. I wanted to be the first, I wanted to see the world! But you just had to come and ruin it.” Duck went silent, and both he and Nia went unhappily to sleep.

Pulling coffee from Rio de Janeiro in Brazil to San Francisco in the USA was yet another job that seemed impossible. “There can’t be a railway line through the Darien Gap!” huffed Duck. “It’s impossible! Not even the road goes through there.” And yet, they were loaded up with coal and water and shown the entrance to the Pan-American railway (which Duck had rather… mixed feelings about).

Nia, on the other hand, was excited!

“We’re going to be able to see monkeys, and panthers, and—” “Snakes.” “Thomas, seriously? Snakes? Are you just wanting to frighten poor Nia?” Thomas didn’t reply, just chortled up front.

It took all three engines several moments to heave the heavy train into motion. Most of the train was made of covered vans filled with sacks of coffee, however a couple flatbeds had been coupled up between Thomas and Duck, to hold the coffee beans that didn’t fit into the vans.

With Thomas in front, it wasn’t long until both Duck and Nia grew bored. The blue tank engine was off in his own world again, fantasising about racing Ace. “Hey, look!” exclaimed Nia excitedly. “It’s a toucan!” Duck gazed over and gasped in amazement. “I’ve never seen a toucan before!” he said. “Oh, I wish I had a camera.” “My fireman has one!” Nia replied. Her fireman leaned out of the cab to photograph the toucan; and then he was taking photos of the parrots, of the capybaras, of monkeys and even a panther that stalked by the lineside.

“How incredible!” murmured Duck. “The scenery here is just…” He and Nia both gazed up at the tall trees that swayed in the breeze above them, practically dripping with vines and vibrant flowers in almost every colour of the rainbow. There were also hundreds of insects, and it wasn’t long before all three crews were putting up fly nets.

They’d just started off again when a certain blue pain-in-Duck’s-bunker spotted his new best friend Ace, and they were speeding off suddenly without stopping for water.

***

Once again, it was Nia who saved them, when Thomas ran dry, and they almost had to dump his fire. Had their crews not used the giant leaves from some nearby shrubs to create water funnels for all three engines – which was Nia’s idea – then he may have had to have his fire dumped.

Rain fell hard in the Amazon jungle – though Duck wasn’t quite sure where they were. “Perhaps we’re nearly in Colombia?” suggested Nia. “It is getting warmer.” “We might even be on the equator right now!” exclaimed Duck excitedly. “No we’re not!” snorted Thomas. “If we were on the equator, we’d see a big dotted line!” “Thomas, you dim-witted blue puffball! That’s a marking on a map, not a real thing!” spluttered Duck.

Thomas sniffed. “Oh please! You just want to stare at the trees. We need to get moving to get Ace to his next rally!” Ah, yes. Ace. They’d found him upside down on the side of the line some miles back, and already Duck wanted to shove him back into the undergrowth.

“You tell him Thomas!” cheered Ace. “We’ve gotta go fast – there’s no time for this sightseeing. I might be out of this race, but I can still make it to North America – continent number three!” “We have coffee to deliver,” Duck reminded sternly. “Which means we’re going to San Francisco. Unless your race starts from there, you’re out of luck. It’s a miracle we’re even helping you in the first place! It’s not the Great Western—” “Oh shut up!” groaned Thomas. “Don’t you have anything else to justify your ridiculous rants, Duck? Great Western this, Great Western that – the Great Western Railway is gone!”

Duck didn’t reply – instead, he went silent, and just glared at Thomas’ bunker.

Which was of course the exact moment that the tracks began to sink into the mud and ooze beneath them.

Both Nia and Duck were all too happy to split the train and ‘race’ through Mexico and Arizona. The two took one track (and the majority of the trucks), while Thomas got Ace, the flatbeds, two vans and the brakevan.

“On your marks!” called Ace. “Get set! Go!”

And with that, the three were thundering along, Nia and Duck working in tandem to draw ahead of the blue tank engine. “This is better!” cheered Duck. “No Thomas, no Ace, no worries!” “You shouldn’t talk about your friend like that,” Nia huffed. “Friend?!” spluttered Duck with a laugh. “Please! You heard him – we’ve never been friends, Nia. Mister Number One doesn’t like me, and there’s nothing I can do about it. At least with him gone, we can finally go see those Rainbow Mountains you were talking about, instead of being dragged after the Blue Puffball.”

“Why do you call him that?” quizzed Nia. Duck laughed. “Oh, it’s a nickname a diesel with a giant claw gave him a while back,” he said offhandedly. Nia gaped at Duck in shock. “What?!” “Ah, now this is a fun story…”

And so, even though they were still racing Thomas through the Arizonan desert, Duck and Nia took the time to share stories about their home railways, as well as marvel at the sublime scenery that surrounded them, including the Grand Canyon itself.

***

Thomas didn’t come. He had ditched them to play ‘rally car’ with Ace. So, Duck and Nia didn’t wait. Instead, the pair boarded the next ship bound for China, excited to go and see the famous Rainbow Mountains in China. They were located at the Zhangye National Park in the north of the country, so the pair had plenty of time to see some of the other wonders of the ancient nation on their way, from the bustling city of Shanghai to the Grand Canal to Jiuzhai Valley National Park. It was gorgeous!

Better yet, they met Yong Bao on their way. Duck had previously met the gentle giant back when Britain had hosted the Great Railway Show, and the Chinese engine had spent some time at the Big Station helping out Henry, Murdoch and Hiro on the heavy goods trains.

“The Rainbow Mountains are beautiful this time of year,” Yong Bao grinned. “It is such an honour to be able to share them with you. Thank you both for finding the time to come all this way to see our sights.” “I’ve always wanted to see the world,” said Duck with a smile. “I remember once talking to Percy about it back on Sodor, during a regatta. He said it was impossible because engines can’t float…” “Really?” hummed Nia. “I used to stare at the sunset and wonder what the world looked like!” “Me too!”

Yong Bao chuckled.

“Well, we can go see the Rainbow Mountains together – and then is there anywhere else you want to go?” “Italy,” Nia replied. Duck’s eyes widened. “You said you wanted to go there, right?” “I… you remembered?” “Of course I did! We’re friends,” said Nia. “And you remembered that I wanted to come here.” Duck beamed. “Oh yes!” Yong Bao chuckled at the pair. “Come on, we had best get moving – you need to see the Rainbow Mountains, then head towards the Himalayas so you can start on your journey to Italy.” Yong Bao coupled the pair up to a passenger train he was pulling in that direction, and the three set off.

“I… I don’t have many friends,” Duck admitted quietly to Nia after a few minutes. “Most of the other engines think I’m a bit… too uptight.” “Being proud of your work and heritage is important,” said Nia. “You should not be ashamed of it. You just prefer to get all your jobs finished before relaxing – it is honourable.” “Agreed,” chimed in Yong Bao. “You have a friend in me, Duck.” Duck smiled a watery smile – he felt close to tears.

“Thank you. Thank you both.”

Yong Bao left them at the base of the ‘railway through the clouds’, and the two continued onwards up the highest railway in the world on their own. It wasn’t easy going. The lack of oxygen made their fires burn cooler, and each puff was a pant – but still they kept on going, spurred on by the scenery that they were seeing. They could see the Himalayas stretched out in front of them, the roof of the world covered in ice and snow.

Both engines talked in hushed voices, both so not to disturb the animals dozing by the line in certain areas – and to not trigger a landslide in others.

That was when they heard a loud, shrill whistle. Duck and Nia both looked back – there was Thomas, speeding up the side of the mountain and whistling fit to burst, calling out their names. Both of them sped up, eyes turned upwards. They were wary of triggering an avalanche.

A tunnel loomed ahead. Nia and Duck puffed in just as there was a deep, dangerous rumble above them. The two slammed on their brakes as a giant avalanche came roaring down the mountainside. The whistles cut out – then started again, only this time alarmed.

“Help! Help!” Duck’s eyes were wide. “Come on, we have to rescue him!” he exclaimed. The two raced back out the tunnel, to find snow everywhere. They charged down the line, and found Thomas off the rails near a sharp bend. He was tilting over the edge of a cliff face, his front buffers hanging over nothing.

“You secure him,” Duck said to Nia. “I’m going to find help further down the mountain.” “Got it. But hurry!” Chains were secured between Thomas and Nia, while Duck sprinted back down the mountain.

“I’m sorry,” Thomas said after a moment. “I was stupid to listen to Ace – he just seemed so cool… and it made me lose sight of who my real friends were.” “I think,” said Nia, “that you need to save your apology for Duck.”

The two sat there for several moments – and then Nia felt herself slipping. Snow was shifting under Thomas, dragging him further over the cliff edge. Nia strained against the weight of the blue tank engine – but it was a losing battle. Just as she felt her trailing wheels lift up off the rails however, Yong Bao and Duck steamed up behind her, buffering up and pushing forwards with all their might!

“Yong Bao!” cheered Nia. “Duck, you found him!” “I heard the avalanche and came right away,” Yong Bao replied. “Whoever was dumb enough to whistle so loudly in an avalanche zone put everyone in danger.”

Thomas blushed, and looked at his buffers in disgrace. “I… I’m sorry Duck,” he said eventually. “I shouldn’t have been so mean. I… I don’t know why you’ve put up with me so far.” “Well, it wouldn’t be very good if you went and rolled down a mountainside,” smirked Duck. “It’s just not the Great Western Way.”

Yong Bao smiled, listening to Duck’s roundabout forgiveness of his friend.

“Here, I will guide you the rest of the way,” he offered. “It is safer.” “Thank you,” said Duck. “We’d really appreciate that. And… maybe our drivers could exchange email addresses?” “Sounds wonderful,” grinned Yong Bao.

***

There was just one last place to go before returning to Sodor.

Duck gasped in astonishment, gazing out over the city of Venice. Thomas and Nia sat on either side of the Pannier tank, all three staring out across the lagoon to where the ancient island city lay, great buildings made of limestone rising up out of the sea.

“It’s incredible,” Duck managed to say, tears in his eyes. He’d actually fulfilled his dream. “I… I never thought I’d ever come here.” “And I never thought I’d leave Africa,” Nia added. “But I got to see the Rainbow Mountains.” “And I never thought I’d leave the yard,” Thomas finished. “But I got to see the world, and I’m glad I got to see it with you both.” “Thank you,” murmured Duck. “It… wasn’t too bad seeing the world with you either.”

They still had a long way to go to get back home to Sodor – a route filled with gorgeous scenery, incredible cities and a trip through the Channel Tunnel – but they weren’t in a hurry. Perhaps there was something to leaving for a little while to see the world, mused Duck.

And as the sun set over the water, the three friends stood on the pier and let the world pass them by, content to spend time together.

Back to Master Post

[abbythewritor]

"Fairness" One Piece x Saitama reader,4.

"Just a Normal girl looking for an everyday life. At least, if you call sailing across the seas with idiots with useless dreams a simple task, then you might wanna see a doctor. Seriously."

Warnings: Blood, gore, mentions of Luekimia, and heaps amount of blood and strength. It might be a little cursing, but not bad, and maybe some flirting in there, but it's mostly clean.

Other things:

-You didn't get bald due to your powers; you got bald to an extreme illness.

-You part of the straw hat crew, but others are interested in you and your power.

-Everyone that is a male is taller than you.

-Monsters from the OPM world will appear in One Piece, and I'll make some new monsters you will fight.

Enjoy the fourth chapter, everyone :)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My goodness, when marine ships are annoying, THEY ARE ANNOYING!

Jimbei is swimming to the ships hidden in the smoke as they started shooting at us, buggy the only one freaking out as we got closer.

But, thanks to Jimbei, we avoided the bombs, Jimbie dodging as they were trying to shoot at him, as a serious look still embedded crocodile and Mister One's face, as I stood up straight.

Jimbei would launch us four onto the deck as we readied ourselves.

Jimbei stopped us, Buggy thinking he left as he ran around, yelling traitor repeatedly as I knew precisely where Jimbei was going.

After about five minutes, a gigantic gator launched us up on the Raft, and we all quickly landed on one of the marine decks, buggy slamming into the floor as Mister One caught me, setting me down gently.

All of the marines pointed their gun at us, and as Crocodile and Mister One launched up in the air, I bolted forward at a fast speed, as we began attacking.

Their bullets didn't affect me, as they were just regular bullets. I kicked a guy in the back, ducking and punching someone in the gut before grabbing another person's fist, twisting it, and breaking it before throwing him off the ship.

Seeing a sword attached to him, I grabbed it, as more ahead kept shooting at me, surprised that the bullets deflected off my skin.

Looking at them blankly, I bolted, my knees hitting the floor as I slid, slicing a person's legs before clashing swords with a marine, pushing him off as he stumbled as I slit his throat, ducking a punch as I crawled between his legs, my foot kicking his but as he launched forwards.

As more approached, I tripped all three with my leg, as Crocodile picked them up with his sand, throwing the three overboard.

Both of us turned as more marines ran to us. As we looked at each other, bolting to them as we pulled off insane combines, He lifted some in the air and disintegrated them, while I just scattered them like flights, as I was like a female lioness striking her prey.

But, as we just kept getting surrounded, Jimbei sent another blast as he went on the ship again, causing a mass amount of explosion to rise, as a shit tone of marines scattered everywhere, everyone except us growing nervous and scared when looking at him. I smirked, looking to the marines, as my clothes blew in the sea wind. "Sorry about my friends, boys...but...we are going to use this ship.." My words freaked them as we all attacked the remaining marines again, and Jimbei quickly destroyed the other ships surrounding us.

Out of breath, we all stopped, as Buggy still in the floorboards, as I knelt to him, my head tilting. "Is he dead?" Mister One and Crocodile shook their heads behind me. "He's just weak..." Nodding, I pulled him out of the wood, as Luffy and the other criminals, even Ivanka and friends, made it to the ship we Hijacked, I smiled brightly, glad that he made it safe.

Ivanka was about to land on Crocodile and Mister One, as their eyes widened quickly, hopping out of the way as she returned to standard size, as prisoners hopped off her head.

Soon enough, we all made it; we thought we did as more marine ships blocked the entrance, and a large door was in front of us all. "OH MY JEEZ, WE CAN'T OPEN IT!!" Mister Three yelled; Luffy and Buggy beside him were shocked, and Buggy got angry and grabbed Jimbeis's dress. "WHAT ARE WE GONNA DO, YOU SHARK?!"

"Sail through it." "WHAT?! THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE! THIS IS A DISASTER! HOW CAN YOU BE SO RELAXED! EVEN YOU THREE!!" His head whipped to me, Crocodile, and Mister One, the three of us just shrugging. "PSYCHOS!!" He snapped, me giggling before more of the ships fired at us, me, Crocodile, Luffy, and Mister One getting rid of them quickly as the others tried to figure out how to open the door.

I threw cannonballs back, my strength causing the ship to sink with one hit, my face blank as some prisoners came up from behind me. "HOW ARE YOU SO CALM?!"

With much dodging and firing back, the gate soon opened, and our eyes widened with shock.

I felt that something wasn't right, and as I looked around for Bon-chan, who wasn't there, my eyes widened.

Oh no...

Luffy was also looking for him as a snail rung; as he picked it up, Bon-chan was on the other line, giving his life to us so we could save others.

This struck my heart, as his sad words sounded to Luffy, made the atmosphere sadder, as me, Crocodile, and Mister One stayed silent for respect, while others like Luffy, Mister Three, and the criminals were crying.

My fist clenched, angered that Bon-clay stayed behind, as I looked away, my teeth gritting as Crocodile noticed, himself looking at me as I tried to keep my composure.

His sacrifice won't be in vain, as we all are going to save Ace and get the hell out of this situation.

As we escaped, things started to calm down, as everyone was eating and drinking except me. I was sitting with him in the front of the Navy ship as I turned to his intense gaze on the horizon. "Luffy." He turned to me as I smiled gently. "We'll get your brother back...Bon-chans's sacrifice won't be in vain...he will be remembered in our hearts..." Your words made Luffy look down as his fists clenched. "I wish I could have done something; there had to be another way; there is always another way..." I frowned. "Sometimes there aren't other ways...fate has a path of twists and turns, some fortunes ending on one final push...a push that might not be what we expected. I know we just met today, Luffy-san, but I have a strong feeling to tell you this...Before I came here...I lived in a land where devil fruits didn't exist, people were born as monsters, or humans with or without powers." His eyes widened. "R-Really? So how do pirates survive?!" I sighed at his question. "Pirates don't exist where I'm from either...because now I'm finally understanding, I'm not from this world...before I came here..I was battling a monster that could teleport things to many dangerous places. When I fought this monster, our clash was so hard that he could teleport me here...to a different world, and now, I have no way back to where I came from." His brows furrowed slightly as he turned to face me. "So you're stuck here?" I nodded. "I arrived right beside your brother, chained, thinking I was going to die, but you came to Luffy and gave me a second chance, as we both know my fate of not being in my own world may be the only path the universe chose me to be. Yes, I was scared, and I wanted to protect the people at my home...but in reality, we don't usually get what we want...." I tugged his heartstrings with my story as he looked to the floor, a question running through his mind. "Ivonka, earlier today, said you were hairless..is that true?" Surprised by his question, I sighed, bringing a hand to my wig as I pulled it off, revealing my bald head to him.

His eyes widened, not believing it, as his heart broke. "W-Where did your hair go?" I was silent for a moment, Crocodile listening in above and out of sight, as he was intrigued about how I was bald, as his eyes pierced down at me from the perch he was sitting in. "I...when I was little, I was diagnosed with a terrible Illness...called Luekimia...it's a type of Cancer.." His heart broke, as he knew what cancer was, as he felt terrible for asking that question, as your answer Affected crocodile, a feeling of remorse for you tugged his heart. 'She had cancer..huh..?' He thought, eyeing me below as I continued to talk to Luffy. "One day, during my treatment period...a monster smashed through my hospital wall, almost killing me.." His eyes widened. "T-That's terrible! Did you get hit?!"I shook my head, a smile plastering my face. "A man I respect with all my heart saved me that day, a hero...a powerful man who defeated the monster before my eyes. He is the reason I am still alive today."Luffy smiled. "Really?! What was his name?!" I looked at the sea in front of me. "Saitama...or as he is known as One Punch Man...my adoptive father." "SUEGEE!" Luffy has stars in his eyes. "Why was he called One Punch man?! Can he only punch things once?!" I chuckled. "No, but the weaker monsters he kills in one punch, which is why he got his name, but the day he saw me in the hospital bed, wired to monitors...he saw a hero in me...and he gave me his powers." Luffy paused as Crocodile's eyes widened with surprise above. "W-Wait, you mean he gave you his power?! How is that possible but so cool at the same time?!" I giggled more from his reaction as I shrugged. "I don't know myself...but without him giving me his powers.I would be dead..." He chuckled. "Well, I'm happy he did, and I'm glad you survived the sickness, Y/n! You're a strong person, and you'd fit right into this world, even if it's too crazy for your liking!" I leaned back on my elbows. "Oh..well, I don't think this world is crazy; it's exciting. I wonder what else is out here; I don't know if I ever wanna go back, to be honest."Luffy did his signature chuckle as he laid back with you. "Well, if you decide to stay, do you wanna Join my crew?" My eyes widened. "Your crew? What crew?" He chuckled. "It's a long story, but my crew mates are scattered at the moment, but I promise, when we unite with them again, they are going to love you, and they are strong and powerful, too; you'll fit right in!" I shook my head with a smile. "Luffy, I'm honored, but I'd have to think about that, OK? Besides, we need to focus on saving your brother.

He smiled and nodded. "Right!" Sighing, I felt eyes on me as I was lying down, looking up to see Crocodile looking at me as he was sitting on a cannon beside Jimbei.

Excusing myself from Luffy, I walked to him as I put my wig back on. "So your bald, huh..?" I sigh. "You heard, huh?" He smirked. "Almost all of it; why hide your head when you already showed it?" I looked down. "I see my baldness as a curse, as a way of telling me how weak I was..." Crocodile hummed in response. "Is that so? You didn't look weak when kicking the Marines in shape." I chuckled, sitting on the Cannon with him. "Thanks, but I may fight strongly but still feel emotionally weak." He glared at me. "Why? Because of having no hair? That's a stupid reason to feel weak. Will you let your past sickness get the best of your true self? Look at everyone on this ship; we have queers, bald men, fat men, and a damn shark. Do we all look insecure about who we are?" I giggled. "No...No...your right.." He smirked. "Then listen to this..that Bald head doesn't change who you are...it's just a matter of looks, the personality that makes a person a human. Remember that." My heart beats from his words as his hand took off the wig gently, soon patting the Naked skin on my head. I smiled up at him. "Thank you..that really means a lot." he turned away, a secret blush lining his face. "You're welcome..."

“You said you were a warlord..what happened?” He stayed silent for a moment, his head still turned away from me. “lost it, one because of Teach, second the rubber brat kicked my ass. Was doing something that I felt proud of, but knew that it was wrong, and now I looked back on it, it was a stupid idea.” I listened, my focus making the silence rise, as he turned to me again. “Let’s say that I was a shitty warlord, and wanna make up for my mistakes. Regain my title.” Feeling terrible from his words, I looked to the ground. “Wow. That’s a lot. But, if those things you did then, and you have true regret, I still think Vivi, whoever she is will forgive you, even if she doesn’t, I think you have room to change and change can be challenging, trust me I know. I don’t think your a crappy person, your actions yes may have been crappy, but that’s just a lesson to not be to proud or greedy of yourself, because too much greed can lead your life upside down.” Your words made him think as he glared at you, as you were right about it. As he was being too greedy with wanting power, I mean isn’t every one? As a couple of seconds of silence rose, you heard him sigh. “Upside down huh..? Is this your way to cheer me up?” I shrug. “Is it working?” “kinda, but I will think of your words wisely, so I won’t screw up next time, who knows if your brave enough to stick around, you can teach me not to be a greedy dick bag huh?” I giggled from his words, as I smiled, looking up at him as the sunlight shines behind us, as he offered me his hand, and I easily shook it with my rather tiny-yet plump ones. “Sounds like a plan.”

“Crocodile-San”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Author: a bit short today since I have errands and a life to get back together, so decided to do a little bit of revealing yourself to the others. I hope you enjoyed, see you in the next one.

[azcanyonrafting]

Rapids Classification

How To Choose The Perfect Rapids For Your Skill Level

The International Scale of River Difficulty (ISRD) rates Class I through VI rapids. Class III rapids are suitable for intermediates with some experience in white water rafting.

To have a good time while whitewater rafting, you must choose rapids matching your skill level. This means understanding how rapid classes work and knowing what to expect at each level.

Advantage Grand Canyon are experts in this field. Our guide is here to help you navigate various classes of rapids and find a suitable adventure in the Grand Canyon.

Classes of Rapids: The International Scale of River Difficulty

For a rafter, each stretch of river represents varying levels of challenge depending on their skills and experience. However, knowing this system ensures they select waters proportionate to their ability and safety measures throughout the journey while making it enjoyable.

Class I Rapids (Beginner)

Beginners or those who have never experienced whitewater should start with class one rivers such as the Badger Creek Rapid in the Grand Canyon.

Due to their smoothness, these rapids are very gentle and can be manipulated by anyone, even without basic skills. Hence, they offer great opportunities to appreciate scenic beauty without encountering difficulties like capsizing.

Class II Rapids (Novice)

Class II rapids might require more maneuverability but are still mild enough for novices and families looking for easy thrills. With just simple rafting skills and wearing life jackets alone, one may quickly navigate through them since they only involve minor splashing, which makes one feel less crowded. Thus, they are ideal places for kids accompanied by families.

Temperatures can be controlled during early spring or summer when sea levels rise. House Rock Rapid is one of the top Class II rapids with small waves and minor obstacles, providing more excitement while still being accessible for less experienced rafters.

Class III Rapids (Intermediate)

Class III Rapids offer moderate waves requiring maneuvering through narrow passages during Dead River trips, where helmets must be worn due to some moderately steep drops and small waves that demand teamwork and quick thinking, leading to fun challenges.

The turbulent drops of the Dead River and the dynamic current in Kennebec’s Penobscot River, which can be described as the fast river flow of Class III rapids, still offer its riders quite a challenge. More physical strength and thrilling emotions can be achieved when you choose rafting trips in adventure sports where people are involved in rafts and pass through different rapid river turns.

If you want to have a lot of fun and be tired while rowing on Class III rapids, then this is what you need. Select the right difficulty level for yourself, take all necessary measures before starting your journey, and rest assured that it will be one excellent whitewater rafting experience.

Hance Rapid is another great intermediate rapid with chaotic waves and tight spaces. It provides a moderate test requiring adept maneuvering skills; intermediate paddlers looking for excitement should consider Granite Rapid.

Class IV Rapids (Advanced)

Class IV rapids are suitable for advanced and intermediate rafters. The river has high power but predictability regarding wave sizes, thus demanding more accurate boat handling techniques than any other category. Large yet unproven waves require narrow passes, so quick moves must be made by experienced guides who can recognize them easily. Otherwise, damages may occur since rescue becomes extremely difficult due to the conditions presented here.

For intermediate rafters, these advanced rapids are exciting because they push their abilities without being too dangerous like expert-level rapids would do; strong currents coupled with powerful waves occasionally dropping down call for confident spokesmanship as well precise steering ability from behind paddles that, even though not extreme compared with class five require good familiarity with white-water courses together fast reflexes if one wants negotiate safely through complex choppy sections which characterize these parts most liked by those having some knowledge about this sport but not enough experience.

Lava Falls and Hermit Rapid in the Grand Canyon provide perfect challenges for skilled kayakers who enjoy steep gradients combined with large waves and turbulence.

Class V Rapids (Expert)

Class V rapids are long, violent, known as challenging rapids, and have hard-to-maneuver features. They represent the ultimate challenge in whitewater rafting. Highly turbulent waters, large and irregular waves, powerful and unpredictable currents, and steep drops over rocks are just a few characteristics that make Class V rapids so dangerous.

To paddle through Class V rapids, one needs to be skilled at paddling, have quick reflexes, and be able to make decisions under pressure. Only those experienced enough should attempt paddling through them because they can easily get injured or their boat may capsize if they do not wear the right gear to protect against such risks.

This is why we at Advantage Grand Canyon recommend only trained experts to undertake this activity, as it requires more demanding fitness levels along longer routes than any other category does; however, most people prefer taking up courses where necessary skills like appropriate equipment knowledge as well rescue techniques would greatly help ensure safety while attempting various challenging parts found within higher sections meant for expert-level rafters.

Crystal Rapid is one of the most complex and dangerous rapids on the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park. It is a class five rapid, which means that you must have advanced paddling skills to navigate down this section successfully. Otherwise, things might turn out differently from what had been planned since several huge waves could quickly sweep away even an experienced rafter like yourself.

Class VI Rapids (Extreme)

Whitewater rapids are classified from class I to class VI. Class VI rapids are the most complex and dangerous rapids to be attempted in a raft. They are considered almost impossible to navigate because they are unpredictable and have many hazards.

These kinds of rapids have big and standing waves created by powerful currents and often steep drops – sometimes over rocks or other obstacles like undercurrents which may flip rafts or suck them underwater for long periods. Rafters need extensive experience before attempting this level; depending on the conditions, it may still be too risky.

In rapid classification, classifying one as class six means it is highly hazardous and usually does not run during normal circumstances, requiring extraordinary expertise, precise steering, and carefulness. Most experts agree that professionals who have mastered all aspects of river running safety skills should only attempt anything higher than Class V, including rescue techniques.

Choosing The Right Whitewater Rafting Adventure

Several considerations besides whitewater classification should be made before selecting a whitewater rafting adventure to ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout the rafting trip. First, evaluate your experience level; beginners should start on manageable sections with gentle currents where they can learn basic paddling strokes without much risk.

Class I and II rapids provide an environment suitable for families with young children or people who wish to relax while being introduced to this sport. Secondarily, if you are looking forward to more thrilling experiences, go for those rivers with moderate complexity levels, such as III, which require advanced skills like reading water correctly, among others.

If you’re an intermediate rafter interested in testing yourself against serious rapids, then Class IV should be right up your alley. Such rivers demand strong paddle work combined with fast reflexes since you will encounter turbulent stretches where navigation becomes tricky due to numerous obstacles like holes and rocks.

Honesty is vital when choosing the appropriate rafting trip for yourself or your group.

Grade IV represents a substantial step up from many different classes in terms of difficulty, so one should have adequate skills before attempting such sections. If you are unsure about your capability, go for less challenging whitewater that matches your abilities. Otherwise, there might arise a need for rescue operations, which could put others at risk, too.

Location and scenery are other critical factors in choosing the proper whitewater rafting adventure. For example, different rivers offer landscapes ranging from lush forests to scenic canyons or even rugged mountains; therefore, researching different destinations will help you find a place that satisfies the desire for natural beauty and the thrill-seeking spirit within.

Final Words

In conclusion, choosing the proper whitewater rafting adventure involves carefully assessing your skill level, desired location, river trip length, and needed guidance. Considering these factors and the rapid classification from above, you can select a rafting experience that matches your abilities and preferences, ensuring a thrilling and safe adventure on the water.

Contact Advantage Grand Canyon today to search for rafting trips from all the top 15 outfitters in one place and book your next Grand Canyon rafting trip!

[positivexcellence]

FRĒDA WOMAN: GENEVIEVE PADALECKI

TALK TO US ABOUT YOU.

HOW DO YOU DECIDE ON A PROJECT?

Gosh. I wish it was that easy!  I think to echo what Odette Annable said, “Taking on a new project usually means that I had to work very hard to even “get” the role. The audition process can be grueling with multiple rounds of auditions and each step feels like a victory.”  And that's the truth. I think having the ability to be able to work and play in our industry is pretty extraordinary and I feel incredibly lucky that I have been able to connect with the role bond with the team and find light in the message.

WHAT MADE YOU START TOWWN?

The awful truth is that I am a big waster. I have 3 kids. I used disposable diapers. Bought single-use plastics and easy on-the-go snacks. I did what was convenient and the best for my family.  But I wanted to understand how I could be better for our planet. The resources that were available to me were ones that we doom and gloom or all or nothing. I wanted something that made more sense to me. Where I could have a solution-based platform that was relatable and evolving.

HOW DO YOU SPEND TIME OUTSIDE OF WORK?

Great question. It depends on the day. But it’s either with my family or with myself, but most likely in nature. On a hike or with a book. But definitely recentering and hopefully getting our hands dirty.

WHAT HAS BEEN MOST REWARDING ABOUT BEING A MOTHER?

Knowing that there is an even greater capacity to love that I didn’t know existed.  My heart grew tenfold when I became a mother.  And I had such a deeper and greater respect for my own mother.  She always told me you’ll never know how much I love you until you have a child of your own.  And she was right.  I also love how much I learn from my children. They are so wise and earnest.  I love seeing the world through their eyes.

WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU’VE BEEN LEARNING ABOUT YOURSELF?

I hope that I am always learning. I think when I was younger I  was stuck in a loop of who I thought I was supposed to be. Or how I was supposed to present myself.  Now I enjoy letting my guard down and trying to go more with the flow.  Not sweating the small stuff and trying to be curious every moment.

HOW DO YOU FEEL SUPPORTED FROM THE GROUND UP?

My family. They are my world. And knowing they are safe and sound and feeling centered makes me feel incredibly grounded.

YOUR MANTRA?

I love a quote from my grandfather which is, “You don’t get what you expect you get what you inspect.”  Sometimes I tend to wash over the details and this quote reminds me to pay attention.  That I have to work hard to achieve what I want. It’s not owed to me.

I also always tell my kids that today is a brand new day. And we can start fresh.

TELL US ABOUT A FAVORITE SUMMER TRIP.

I grew up going to a place called Graeagle that was nestled in between mountains in Northern California. As kids, we learned to fish; tying flies, cleaning and cooking our fish, hiking the mountains and finding our way back. These trips encouraged self-reliance. In those summers we tuned out the noise and came together as a family. It was heaven for me. Now I try and recreate that feeling for our kids. This year we are heading on a rafting and fishing trip as a family (with zero cell reception, I cannot wait).

ANY FUN SUMMER PLANS?

Yes! Currently, Jared and I are in Italy.  We have been in Rome for a quick work trip and then we explored (are currently exploring Corsica) and then Sardinia. We are also doing an annual trip with Jared's brother and sis in law. It’s become a bit of a tradition now and it makes me so happy to have this time.  This year we are biking around France. Last year I tumbled ass over a tea kettle in the Dolomites so wish me luck…then Jared and I and the kids head to Idaho to get lost on the river.

TELL US ABOUT A FAVORITE SUMMER TRIP.

I grew up going to a place called Graeagle that was nestled in between mountains in Northern California. As kids, we learned to fish; tying flies, cleaning and cooking our fish, hiking the mountains and finding our way back. These trips encouraged self-reliance. In those summers we tuned out the noise and came together as a family. It was heaven for me. Now I try and recreate that feeling for our kids. This year we are heading on a rafting and fishing trip as a family (with zero cell reception, I cannot wait).

ANY FUN SUMMER PLANS?

Yes! Currently, Jared and I are in Italy.  We have been in Rome for a quick work trip and then we explored (are currently exploring Corsica) and then Sardinia. We are also doing an annual trip with Jared's brother and sis in law. It’s become a bit of a tradition now and it makes me so happy to have this time.  This year we are biking around France. Last year I tumbled ass over a tea kettle in the Dolomites so wish me luck…then Jared and I and the kids head to Idaho to get lost on the river.

THE AUSTIN DIARIES

FAVORITE SHOP: Estilo, Valentines, Maufrais, Hearth and Home, or Alexa James Baby, bygeorge

GO-TO RESTAURANT: Soto, Dai Due, Wu Chow

ALL-TIME BEST BBQ: Terry Blacks

CAFFEINE KICK: I go more for the smoothies and matchas…so Juiceland

SUNDAY ACTIVITY: Gardening, running Lake Austin trail or boating

HIDDEN GEM: I can’t tell you…lol

RAINY DAY DESTINATION: My library

TOURIST ATTRACTION LOCALS LOVE: Probably the bats on Congress Bridge or shopping SOCO

BEST THING ABOUT LIVING THERE: Your neighbors, Austin is an amazing community

[writingquestionsanswered]

How does one write a character who does whatever sounds fun and screw the consequences, who enjoys more risky and/or dumb things especially, but still avoid them doing anything too extreme? Like can cause big issues if gone wrong but nothing disabling

Risk-Taking Character

Hmm... I'm not sure what you're asking here. How do you write them in what way? Are you asking for ideas for behavior that's risky but not necessarily life-threatening? If so, I would suggest doing a good old fashioned brain-storming session to think of some ideas on your own. I mean, there are few activities that don't come with some level of life-threatening risk, but if you want ideas for thrilling activities that are reasonably safe, you could do a search on "healthy thrill seeking" which lists things like sky diving, white water rafting, and hot air balloon rides. All things that are reasonably safe but probably a little more risky than your average trip to the grocery store.

If you're asking how to portray a person like this, it's up to you to figure out who your character is, why they have this thrill-seeking mentality, why they're not concerned about risk or consequences, and how that affects them and the people around them.

Happy writing!

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

I’ve been writing seriously for over 30 years and love to share what I’ve learned. Have a writing question? My inbox is always open!

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[luxmoogle]

Kairi makes Sora the shells, but she at first says something like "the three of us will always be together" so I wonder if she WAS going to make Riku something? Like I know the shells are kinda like... their whole shippy thing but... I was just thinking about that one post you made about how Riku was the only one serious about going out to sea! She mentioned the three of us, was she just trying to be casual or was she planning to make more? (Or was that just English translation stuff) like she mirrors Aqua who makes 3 so they can't be separated! Dang kh1 kids, stop leaving Riku out

I don't think Kairi was going to make one for Riku, since they were going to set sail the next day, there wouldn't have been anymore time for that, but then Destiny Islands got swallowed up by the darkness anyway. But I don't think she made the charm for Sora either!

I think Kairi made the charm for herself and by extension to both the boys she was going to be traveling with, for all three. The sea shells are supposed to ensure safe voyage after all, so the charm was meant for them to have a safe trip together on their raft.

The charm ends up as a gift to Sora because of after all that's happened, Kairi wanted it to bring good luck to Sora and keep him safe.. ..and also by making a promise with him to bring it back, to make him come back to her safely. This decision then links it to Sora and Kairi specifically, making it a symbol of their connection and oath~

Kairi didn't mean for Riku to be left out, but all the hurt and chaos between the trio leaves Riku on the outside, but very much because of his own doing.

[thesamsaraholidays]

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The ideal time to visit Jammu and Kashmir for B2B travel packages depends on your specific interests and requirements. The region offers year-round attractions:

Spring and Summer (April to September): Enjoy the lush greenery, blooming flowers, and pleasant weather perfect for outdoor activities.

Autumn (September to November): Witness the stunning fall foliage and explore the region's vibrant cultural festivals.

Winter (December to March): Revel in the snow-covered landscapes, indulge in winter sports, and experience the cozy charm of the region.

Estimated Travel Cost

The approximate travel cost for a B2B package in Jammu and Kashmir, including transportation, accommodation, and essential activities, can range from ₹30,000 to ₹50,000 per person, depending on the package duration, group size, and level of luxury.

Book Your Unforgettable B2B Journey in Jammu and Kashmir Today!

Embark on a transformative B2B travel experience in the enchanting land of Jammu and Kashmir. Contact us now to customize your perfect corporate getaway package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the best way to reach Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. Jammu and Kashmir can be accessed by air, rail, and road. The major airports are in Srinagar, Jammu, and Leh, with well-connected domestic flights from major Indian cities.

Q. Is it safe to travel to Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. Jammu and Kashmir is generally safe for tourists, especially when traveling with reputable tour operators. However, it's essential to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and follow local guidelines.

Q. What is the currency used in Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. The Indian Rupee (INR) is the official currency used in Jammu and Kashmir. Major credit cards are widely accepted in most tourist areas.

Q. Do I need a special permit to visit Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. A special permit (called an Inner Line Permit) is required to visit certain restricted areas in Ladakh and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Our team can assist you with obtaining the necessary permits.

Q. What are the must-try local cuisines in Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. Jammu and Kashmir is renowned for its delectable Kashmiri cuisine, including dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Gushtaba, and the iconic Kashmiri Wazwan. Don't miss the opportunity to savor these culinary delights.

Q. Can I combine my B2B trip with leisure activities in Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. Absolutely! Our B2B packages can be customized to include a perfect balance of business and leisure activities, allowing your team to experience the best of Jammu and Kashmir.

Q. What are the top adventure activities available in the region?

Ans. Jammu and Kashmir offers a wide range of adventure activities, such as trekking, hiking, white-water rafting, skiing, and snowboarding, depending on the season and location.

Q. Is the infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir suitable for B2B travel?

Ans. Yes, the region has a well-developed infrastructure, including modern hotels, conference facilities, and transportation options, catering to the needs of corporate travelers.

Q. Can I extend my B2B trip to explore other parts of India?

Ans. Certainly! Our B2B packages can be seamlessly integrated with travel plans to explore other captivating destinations across India, creating a truly comprehensive and enriching experience for your team.

Q. How can I book a B2B package for Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. You can contact our dedicated team of travel experts, who will work closely with you to design a custom B2B package tailored to your specific requirements and budget.

Conclusion

Jammu and Kashmir, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and well-equipped infrastructure, is an ideal destination for B2B travel. Our carefully crafted packages offer the perfect balance of business and leisure, allowing your team to forge stronger connections, boost productivity, and create lasting memories. Embark on an unforgettable journey with us and unlock the wonders of this enchanting region.

[deepdisireslonging]

Choices Chapter 6: Days of Rest

Wardlow gives Ricky the day off, who immediately invites Esther to join him. Their date that evening is interrupted by another gang leader and someone that makes Ricky look like he's seen a ghost.

Warnings/Promises: food mention, alcohol, gun appearance

Word Count: 3500

Chapter 5: Meeting After the Meeting 

Saturday, February 23, 1929

Bridgeport Township

Despite the tea indulgence the night before, coffee was in order the morning after. Even when working at Howls, Esther had never managed to work herself up to a hangover.

This must be what it feels like. And this is why Shabbat starts at nightfall the evening before; so you’re not exhausted for the day of rest.

The sunlight streaming between her curtains forced her to squint through most of getting dressed. Like sugar through molasses, she tried to get herself together. She was tempted to stay in her house shoes to go down for breakfast, but decided against it at the last minute. Also on her befuddled mind, was the mystery of who carried her to bed. The safe answer would have been Joe or Mr. Spears. And while Ricky would have huffed and puffed though carrying her with his injured ribs, she really hoped he hadn’t.

She wasn’t sure how to feel with the knowledge that is had probably been Wardlow carrying her up.

Stumbling into the wall, she would have tripped down the stairs if Mr. Spears hadn’t caught her arm.

“Was that actually tea in your cup last night,” he asked, guiding her, “or did Mrs. Anne slip you a hot toddy?”

“It was tea.”

They reached the bottom of the stairs where the breezeway was already open. Ares was waiting for her, gruffing at her until she knelt to give him his morning greeting. Spears nodded knowingly as she rested her head against the wall. “Late nights will do that to ya.’ You’ll get used to them. Other than that, how’d you sleep?”

She grinned. “I didn’t know I was asleep until I woke up this morning.”

“That good? Well- how about some victory breakfast for surviving yesterday?”

The kitchen occupants were moving in a sluggish fashion like Esther. A few of them had short glasses for a bite of the dog. A phrase that usually cost you a scramble of egg from Ares if he heard you. Ricky was hunched over his cup of steaming coffee like it was a life raft. He at least looked rested, and halfway still asleep.

Joe and Wardlow apparently hadn’t slept a wink. Alert as ever, Joe was still a few extra seconds in noticing Esther entered. He eyed Wardlow out of the corner of his view, knowing what she saw would worry her. The boss was, again, looking over Esther’s notes. Her notebook was open on the icebox by the window, which he was leaning against. In his hand was her card list. His eyes, shadowed by dark bags underneath, flicked back and forth between the clusters of information. His breakfast, two pieces of buttered burnt toast and a cup of coffee, were untouched.

“Mornin’, ma cher.” Ricky gave her a nod. He was sitting at the only table in the room. Esther felt guilty taking the only remaining chair while everyone else hazarded to sway on their feet. But she took it. He reached over, giving her hand a squeeze and her knuckles a kiss before rising to his feet. “Let me grab you a plate. Toast and eggs, right?”

“Yes, please.”

“Coffee?”

She nearly moaned with delight. “Yes. Just milk, if there is some.”

“Of course.”

He was off like a shot, darting from one side of the kitchen to the other. All while dodging the other crewmembers who glared at him if he bumped into them too much. If she hadn’t known about his injuries, she would have never known by watching him.

She glanced at the window-side of the room. “Morning, Mr. Joe. Mr. Wardlow.” She tried smiling when he finally looked up.

“Good morning, Miss Garnier.” His gaze lingered, but slid back to the papers. The small sip of coffee made him wince at its coldness. Clearing his throat, he sat down his cup. “Is this everyone?”

Ricky slid into his seat, passing Esther her plate.

Joe grunted.

With a deep exhale, Wardlow finally laid the notes to one side. “All things considered, yesterday was a success. We got a lot of information. Which is just what we were looking for. The attack last night raised a few new questions, but we’ll riddle them out soon. Starks-”

“Yeah, Boss.”

“Got a few things for you to look into in a few days. But rest up before.”

With a smirk, Ricky sipped his coffee. “I’m starting to resent being your point guard.”

“Take it as a compliment that you’re so good.”

“Then you really don’t mind if I slack off?”

“Not at all. The next few days are yours.”

“Great.” He immediately turned to Esther. “What plans do you have tonight?”

She stammered, “whatever you’re doing. I guess.”

Wardlow, leaning back, tapped his thumb against the top of the icebox. The tilt of his head, paired with the crease in his brow, created a dark cloud over his features. He breathed it away. “You’ve done an excellent job, Miss Garnier. I hope you enjoy your evening. Don’t let anything happen to our best girl, right, Starks?”

“I thought you just said I was so good?” Ricky pouted.

Esther giggled, and shot Wardlow a wink. “You’re good,” she said to Ricky, “but I’m excellent.”

Again, Wardlow had to breathe away his reaction. But he still passed his thumb across his bottom lip. “She’s got a point.” His smile momentarily broke through before he set his shoulders and returned to business. “As for the rest of us, we will be delivering Miss Garnier’s notes to our associates. Don’t take chances but keep your eyes peeled. Some of their stories aren’t lining up, and anything extra you notice should help.” He pushed off the icebox to his feet. “Joe will assign you your territories in an hour.”

As he left, Joe glanced at the untouched toast and cold coffee. Esther could have sworn she saw him smile and shake his head, but he flicked open that morning’s paper over his face, blocking her view. The front page was covered in stories about the attack at Eighth and Vine, and also two other attacks. And one small square of text about some funding for a new hospital wing.

“So, where would you like to go tonight?” Ricky scooted back his chair. “Do you like Italian, or are you a strictly Matza ball soup kinda girl?”

“I do like certain dishes. But I take it you haven’t found a Creole place up here?”

He scrunched up his nose. “Nah. I don’t think my crawfish and gumbo would be kosher for you anyway. Haven’t found any beignets yet either. But cannoli are an okay second.”

They continued to make plans while the rest of the crew finished their breakfast. Mrs. Anne was observing the Sabbath, so there weren’t any chores she’d let Esther help with. She took it upon herself to create a cozy space in the parlor. Armored with blankets, a lot of tea that Spears made for her, and a crackling fire stoked by Joe before they left, she happily read the day away with a book. Her mind traveled far away from Chicago. Instead of her own adventurous life, she let the adventures of David Levinsky take over her afternoon till dark.

At four-thirty, Esther went up to her room to change into something nice. The sun went down during her preparations. Promptly at six, Ricky was waiting for her at the bottom of the stairs. His eyes lit up as she turned the corner to the first few steps. She took her time descending, reveling in the shiver his gaze gave her.

It’s like he knows what I look like without my slip on.

The easy flirting was interrupted by a young team member, Dante Martin, thundering down the stairs. He squeezed by with a quick, ‘scuse me,” and barely a glance at Esther. Halfway down the steps, he froze. And turned, making Esther’s face warm. Martin whistled and waggled his eyebrows at Ricky. “Have fun, kids,” he said on his way past Ricky. “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.”

“I’ll make my own luck, thank you.” Ricky exchanged soft false punches with the young man. “Stay outta trouble, yeah?”

“Me?” Martin glanced once more at Esther as she reached them. “I should be telling you that.” He headed toward the kitchen.

Alone again, Esther nodded after him. “Nice young man. Is he new too? I haven’t seen him much.”

“He’s on loan from some ally or another. One of the information runners between companies until this Dealer gets shuffled out.” He held up his elbow. “Shall we?”

Esther smiled. “Let’s.”

\\*//

Giovanni’s, Neutral Territory

A short while later, Ricky pulled the car (one not riddled with bullet holes) into an available spot in front of the restaurant. The afternoon was already dark as night, giving the warm glow for shops and eateries a friendly brightness as the light poured into the street. They each welcomed in passerby’s. Even the herbs used in the cooking drifted into the street every time the doors opened. Esther took a big whiff, tugging her coat tighter around her. The crisp air made the restaurant seem all the warmer.

Before Ricky could reach for the door, another hand opened it. “After you.”

“Thank you.” Esther gave the man a smile, then bumped into Ricky.

He was frozen in place. Like he’d seen a ghost. Esther’s confusion melted away into terror as Britt Baker stepped into view. She looked like any girl out on the town, dressed in her best dress and hair waved to perfection. If Esther hadn’t seen her brandish a knife just a day ago, she would have believed the innocence on display.

She smiled warmly at Esther and dipped her head to Ricky. “Fancy meeting you here.” She glanced at her companion, who held his hand out to Ricky.

He took it, hesitation twinged with accusation. “Yeah. Fancy that.”

The man took his hand back. He wiped it on his sleeve and coat front as if ridding his skin of a layer of oil.

Baker sucked her teeth at him. “Be polite.” Turning her attention back to the pair, she introduced him. “You’ll have to forgive Mr. Cole. Adam’s been busy with work lately and I’m just now re-introducing him into society. Now let’s all get inside out of the cold.”

It surprised Esther how gentle Baker was with this man. She let him open the door for her. As she walked in, her dress glittered and softly swished around her knees. Cole’s hand rested easy on her lower back as he guided her inside. It was a sharp difference from the way Ricky’s hand twitched at the base of Esther’s spine. He kept an urgent eye on the bustling restaurant in front of them, and on the brave walkers outside. He bristled further as Baker requested a table for four. His unease began to rub off on Esther as the consignor took their coats.

They were led to a booth in the back corner. Ricky maneuvered so he could guide Esther into the inside seat facing the room. But Baker slid in next to her. Adam shrugged when he grit his teeth, taking the inside of the opposite seat. Esther realized that while Ricky would at least have the outside, good for a quick exit, he wouldn’t be able to see the front door. And she was blocked in by Baker.

“So,” Ricky slid into his seat, smoothing down the lapels of his vest, “where’s your entourage tonight?”

“My husband and I wanted a night to ourselves.”

Esther startled. “Husba- but I thought- if you’ll excuse me, Mrs. Baker. I thought you were a-well…”

“A widow?” Baker fidgeted with the bracelet peeking out from under her sleeve. “Yes. A rumor I am happy to squash. And please, we are friends here. Call me Britt. As for the entourage, Adam and I are enough. I would ask you the same question. You have any back-up nearby, Starks?”

“I’ve got us covered.” He patted his vest, smoothing down the fabric enough to show the bulge of his handgun.

Britt rolled her eyes. “That’s comforting.” She turned to Esther. “Open your purse.” When Esther hesitated, she chuckled. “I have a gift for you. How bad could it be? There’re so many people around.”

Hands shaking, Esther placed her purse on the edge of the table and popped open the top. She gasped as Britt brandished a small pistol from her dress pocket, and dropped it in. Across the table, Adam ran a hand through his hair and exhaled slowly.

“Jesus, Britt. Could you be any more obvious?”

She winked at him. “I probably could. But who’s going to say anything?” Her gaze swept across the room, daring any witnesses to make eye contact. “Everyone knows who we are.”

“That’s what we’re concerned about.” Adam leaned back in his seat as a perky waiter showed up to take their order.

Britt ordered for all of them. It made Adam smile in amusement, while Ricky griped the edge of the table like he wished it would crumple easy as paper. But Esther was impressed. Their unlikely host had ordered exactly what she wanted.

“I’m a good read of people. And their habits.” Brit thanked the waiter as he dropped off a wine bottle with glasses, and small glasses of water. “I figured Starks would be here, as a respite for a job well done for your boss. I hoped he would bring you with him.” She nudged into Esther’s shoulder. “And I’m glad he did.”

Ricky flashed a smile at Adam, full of alligator teeth. “So, now that we’re all armed and friendly, what piece did you bring to dinner?” He watched Adam smooth his knuckles over the center edge of his vest. “No. That’s right. You’re not a fan of bullets. You’re more of a knife guy. Good for target practice between shoulder blades.”

“You would know. You were my biggest competitor in the role.”

Esther felt Britt’s boot flash out. If she connected with her husband’s shin, he didn’t show it more than a flirting wink at his wife.

The purse at Esther’s side radiated danger. It set her teeth on edge. After clearing her throat, her voice still came out strained. “While I appreciate the gift, Mrs. Baker,” she paused to catch her breath again, “I really can’t accept it. How would you like me to – uh- return the umm, the-”

“Nonsense, dear. Keep it, please. In this line of work, you’ll need it. Chicago is a dangerous place for women like us. We have to look out for one another.”

Jade Cargill’s disdain for Britt’s “help” drifted through Esther’s mind like a waft of spices. Vibrant and unavoidable as burnt cardamon, but soon gone and forgotten.

Britt set her gaze on Ricky. “You’ll especially need it around him. Mr. Starks attracts trouble. I should know. I’ve given him the business a few times. By the way, have your knees recovered?”

“They’re just fine,” Ricky replied through teeth gritted into a sharp smile.

“Good to hear.”

Adam snorted. “And you’re telling me to behave.” His blue eye glittered as Britt flirted him a pseudo-sneer.

Their food arrived. Steaming and spiced to perfection, the barely hidden animosity melted away. The conversation drifted around the weather, and lack of snow. The residual cold. And they chatted about the construction projects around the city. No one wondered or revealed who may or may not have been involved in those constructions. Or their funding.  And, between bites, Esther noted all she could. How Adam kept his left hand always close to his waistcoat. His wife kept the conversation flowing, but her gaze would flick towards the door and restaurant’s occupants every few seconds. Esther had to keep her hands from shaking every time she lifted her fork to her mouth. As for Ricky, he avoided the wine. It was surely brought to the table to show that Baker was not afraid to purchase and drink alcohol in the open. If she wasn’t afraid of arrest, then she wasn’t afraid of anything Ricky could do. Out of politeness, he would bring up the glass for a sip, but not a drop passed his lips. He sat it on the outside of his plate so that the reflection in the glass gave him a similar view of the room as Britt. Which he checked often.

When the plates were cleared away, Ricky was further perturbed when their host took the cheque.

She grinned at Esther. “Consider it another welcoming present to the business.” She stood first, activating everyone’s movement towards the door.

Not to be outdone this time, Ricky was first to the door. He opened it with a flourish. But Adam passed through next, shutting it behind him and closing Esther into the restaurant with his wife. Ricky began to protest, but Adam’s calm voice, muffled by the door, said something that held Ricky in rapt attention.

“So,” Britt adjusted the scarf around her neck, “why are you here?”

The words caught in Esther’s throat before tumbling out. Wardlow and Joe’s warning hadn’t prepared her nearly enough. “Tonight? We both had the night off and Ricky suggested-”

“No. You know what I mean.”

She took another breath, looking through the door. Ricky was in quiet conversation with Adam, his brow creased. “By accident, I assure you. It’s all happened so fast-” She startled as Ricky caught her watching him. His eyes flicked toward Britt, noting their conversation, and his frown deepened. “Um, so fast, that I don’t understand how myself.”

Britt hummed. “Yes. This life can spring on you.”

Outside, Adam stepped in front of the door. It blocked both parties from viewing the other. And prevented Ricky from bursting in.

“It’s been wonderful to finally make your acquaintance,” Britt continued. “When I received a copy of your notes… I was very impressed, I have to say. You’ll be wasted with Wardlow.”

“What’s it to you?” Esther shivered as Britt’s eyes flashed with irritated surprise. “That is… I have a roof over my head, and I’m making good money. I appreciate your looking out for me. But you needn’t worry about me. I am well taken care of.”

“I’m sure.”

Esther held her breath as she mirrored Britt putting on her gloves.

“If you ever change your mind, just come here and tell Lucas.” She nodded at their waiter, “and he’ll get word to me to pick you up.”

“But I thought this- but I thought this was neutral territory?”

“It is. Means it’s a good place to hide out if you’re ever in trouble.” She pushed lightly on the door, moving Adam so they could exit. “This was nice. We should do this again sometime. Perhaps when it’s warmer.”

Adam offered Britt his arm. He nodded at the other man. “Until next time, Ricky.”

“Until next time.”

The couple walked down the sidewalk into the night. Their bodies, close in familiarity and  against the cold, passed in and out of the lightened shop fronts like illuminated shadows.

Ricky lightly placed his hand on Esther’s lower back, walking her to the car. He opened her door but held lightly onto her arm. “What was that about?”

“Nothing of consequence.” Esther’s heart threatened to thunder into her throat.

Ricky swallowed hard. “Did she offer you a job?”

Now she had to smile. “I’m not going anywhere.”

It was enough for him to let her sit down. And for his cheeks to shine with more than the cold when sat in the driver’s seat. He motioned for her purse. She popped it open so he could easily pull the gun out. When it was in his hands, he let it rest. Esther assumed he was testing the weight and seemed familiar with its type. He blinked rapidly. Glancing around first, he dropped it back into her bag.

“It’s a good piece. I hope you never get the opportunity to use it.” Despite the warning, a smirk tugged at the side of his mouth. He whistled as he guided the car into the night’s traffic. “You’re moving faster than me, Cherie. If I’m not careful, you’ll bypass my plans.”

“What plans could you possibly have?” She laughed high and free, finally feeling like she could breathe again now that it was just the two of them. She leaned back in her seat as he maneuvered deftly between other cars. “Why can’t we all stay where we are?”

“Wardlow’s not going to keep me around forever. We’ve talked. I’ve got plans, big ones. Plans where I get to say where I go and how I spend my days.” He drifted into silence. “But those are a long way off. Gotta stick around to see what all you’ll accomplish first.”

They rode home amused by the surprise hosts and amused by each other’s company.

\\***//

Chapter 7: Secrets and Threats

[mlmvoreconfessionals]

jason voorhees with wg and disposal? idk big strong muscle man becoming heavy with fat, especially jason, sounds so cute. and also disposal because im a weirdo

You’re right, it is cute. And I have a secret to share—I’m a huge weirdo, too.

J.ason gives his gut a squeeze and it molds around his hand like soft clay. He lets out a soft groan and lets go of it, watching it wobble when he does. There's no doubt about it. He's gotten fat. Really, he should have accepted the idea a while ago. He's noticed the way his sparse collection of clothes seem to hug his frame more and more as the days go by. Today was the day his shirt ripped open trying to fit over his empty gut, though.

It was bound to happen with his diet, really. Humans are walking calorie bombs and it seems like there's two more for every one he eats. The RV he recently tore apart groans as he steps off of it. The lingering smell of shit follows after him, a pile made up of a father and his three adult sons filling at least half of the vehicle after J.ason crashed their family camping trip. They'd been the thing to push his body past the limit and into 'definitely fat now'. He can feel the way his stomach wobbles with every step he takes and he wasn't able to get his pants to come up over his ass again.

He's still strong, of course, but all that muscle is being smothered under plush fat. But this summer has been particularly busy for him. These campers weren't even his first meal of the day. No, that was the van of stoners who thought the woods were a safe place to get as high as they want. Their van is still sitting out there somewhere, the back of it weighed down with a monster of a crap. Stoner always seems to go right through him.

There were also those college guys skinny dipping in the lake. No clothes on those meals, at least, but it was a pretty heavy meal with how many there were. He was lucky that the wooden raft they had out there held his weight. He'd bring it in if he cared enough to shovel that mountain of shit he left on it, but frankly, he wasn't too worried about where he left his shits. This was his territory, he could leave them where he wanted. It didn't do anything to stop these people from coming around.

The meal right before the family were some hunters. Tracking them down one by one was a nice change of pace. Though J.ason is happy he didn't have to deal with being shot. They never even saw him coming. Now they're just a few nasty heaps scattered around the forest like plenty of others. And then, of course, there's his latest meal which finally made his clothes stop fitting entirely.

Though, if J.ason is being honest with himself, he's been getting fatter these last several months. He really noticed if after eating that party bus of graduates. Definitely one of his biggest meals to date and, of course, the biggest shit he ever took--at least half an hour to get it all out, if that. It was the first time he really noticed he was getting fatter, though. And while usually he can work it off, he hasn't had much of a break in terms of food since then, and he's gaining faster than losing.

J.ason lets out a grunt and shakes his gut back and forth slowly, squeezing the fat between his fingers a few times. He's just going to have to get used to the new size. Cutting back on scarfing down every man that walks into his home isn't an option, and if they don't stop coming, he's just going to keep eating. Guess the weight isn't so bad, at least...it'll be nice when winter comes around for sure.

[wordpimp]

A path and a field

Suitcase, suit. Cleaning up someone's apt to go on a work trip, or r&r. Suitcase from a closet, suit from a dressing room. Threw away pieces of a door, it was large and metal and barely fit in the dumpster, was I supposed to throw it away there, tree like Golgotha, dry the air with rosemary. Their place was on a hill, felt like Oakland but odd to be leaving just to go back. I had black boots on, half boots, matte, sueded. Dungeness.

Shielded from the blast on a high rise overlooking the edge of a valley with some others who also didn't look, had a few good days after that, seasons. Went on a helo trip I think, might have been a raft, shimmied under a bridge to dangle precariously from a boulder/cliff on the other side, like the mill in Roswell, it had that Seurat painting je ne sais quoi, got a hand from someone I just called hey buddy. Made it up at least. Then they gave me some wine. Tasted good.

My shoes were like wheelies but they were motorized, and the moving part was self contained and removable, no wheels. Detachable sun. Wanted to whoosh into traffic but I kept to the sidewalk shaded dappled went into a town like Helen, it was formidable, like Disney's Armageddon. Big bell tower. Vanilla fudge. Went to my room, my garret, my home and my nook. Felt safe and odd waking up, my whole left side sore as if from a fall and lay in bed for an hour blinking. Oh I think the cat slept on me

There is a settlement, it's more like a camp and the way isn't easy. Deep in the fields, in the valleys the beds are already made. Junction box on a 4x4, orange placard, the gravel not yet paved the frame not yet formed

What do you wish for

Why don't you try harder