#since kauri makes an appearance

[ashintheairlikesnow]

ash i love vince so much he is my number 2 babygirl (antoni number 1 babygirl forever)

i would like to formally request some vince having a Bad Time, either past stuff with owen or present with recovery being a bitch

because there is nothing better than lovely characters having bad times that they absolutely do not deserve

CW: Alcoholism, withdrawal/cravings, alcoholic anger, Vince and Jameson both PTSD-ing all over the place, guilt

Oh, poor Vince. Takes place post-the Same Bed Arc, after Vince is living with Nat and Jameson.

-

Vince doesn't even look up when he hears Jameson stop in the doorway. He just pours a few shots worth of the gin into the glass, staring fixedly down at it. The liquid, clear as water but with the herbal scent washing over him like a welcome spring rain, spreads over the ice with those gentle cracks he knows better than his own heartbeat.

God, it looks good.

His hands don't shake, now. His heart doesn't race. He doesn't feel sweaty, or upset, or like he'll be sick.

He just feels like he's staring at the solution to all his problems, and all he has to do is swallow it down.

This should feel awful - he knows it should. It should taste awful, there should be something to remind him of the damage he does to himself every time he drinks again. He should hear his sponsor speaking in the back of his mind, he should hear the voices of the others at the meetings he goes to - one for alcoholism, one for survivors of sexual assault, twice a week there's movie star Vincent goddamn Shield among the normal people and admitting he's barely human, just a wreck that only survived Owen Grant because Nat decided she gave a fuck about him for reasons Vince still doesn't understand.

Here he stands, a hollow shell wearing a nice face who let someone else suffer in his place and was grateful for it for far too long.

Kauri hates him but it's nothing compared to how much he hates himself.

Vince lifts the glass, hesitating at the last second with the cool rim just touching his lower lip. Gin smells like blacking out and right now he could use the blessed darkness, hangover be damned.

He can worry about that when the headache kicks in tomorrow morning.

He realizes he's waiting for the sickening crawl of guilt at letting Nat down, at-... at letting himself down. Maybe that will come later, but right now... He feels goddamn good. Settled. Calm.

He and Jameson meet eyes just as he tosses the drink back, three large swallows of juniper-scented gin down his throat like water, leaving only the ice cubes behind.

The burn is perfect.

He pours himself another drink, feeling the warmth slowly spread through his chest to his shoulders, eyes briefly closing. God, it feels like goddamn heaven.

He looks up.

Jameson is still standing there in the doorway, looking oddly soft in a loose sweater that's far too big for him and a pair of old jeans that probably cost a dollar at a yard sale and even that was too much. Vince has jeans that distressed, somewhere.

His cost more than five hundred dollars.

He chokes on the next drink from trying not to laugh.

Jameson's eyes narrow. "What the fuck are you doing?"

"What does it look like I'm doing?" Vince takes another sip, eyes half-closed, letting himself take it slow this time and really enjoy the taste.

He'd honestly been surprised the little liquor store down the block even carried this brand of gin. Not that he wouldn't have bought whatever he could get, when he stood there feeling like he would die if he had to go another day, but still. It's nice to have seen his favorite stuff, top shelf, pricier than it had any right to be. It's not even that good, but it's still his favorite. It still tastes, to him, like the nights he sleeps without nightmares, few and far between.

Gin tastes like those nights he gets to sleep at all.

The cashier had looked surprised as she wiped off the dust and rang it up for him. Then, with a shy smile, she'd asked him if anyone ever told him he looked a lot like Vincent Shield. He'd been kind of sad she didn't card him - it would have been nice to see the look on her face when she saw his name.

Instead, he paid in cash, laughed, and told her the standard I get that a lot, actually.

Jameson doesn't move closer, or leave. "It looks like you're fucking yourself up," He says, lingering in the doorway. "You can't just start drinking again. You know that, right?"

"Oh, I sure as hell can." Vince laughs, but it's a bitter sound. He licks the gin lingering on his lips, then gestures at the bottle. "Have some with me."

He's caught, for just a moment, when he sees Jameson wearing an expression Vince has never seen on him before. He looks... nervous. Afraid, almost, instead of angry.

"I-I don't want to," Jameson says, but there's a way he says it that makes Vince think he'd drink if he offers again. Maybe he wants to, or maybe he just doesn't want to make Vince mad.

If he commanded it, if he gave an order... Jameson would be as he's told, wouldn't he? Damn, that would be some power to have over someone.

This must be why Owen liked it so much.

No.

He won't think about Owen right now.

Vince gulps down liquid until he's breathless, almost panting. The warmth is like the familiar cradle of a softer reality settling in. He makes himself slow down this time, picking up an ice cube and sucking the juniper taste right off it before crunching it with his teeth.

"Vince." Jameson's voice gets harsher, and something seems to break his brief paralysis. He moves closer, grabbing the bottle and pulling it away when Vince puts a hand out to pour the third drink. "Fucking... look at me. What the fuck?"

Vince's hand just... hangs out there, reaching for a bottle that isn't where it was. He stares at the empty space, and feels that dark inside of him threaten to well up yet again. "What?"

Jameson swallows, his eyes moving to the glass, back to Vince's face. He steps backwards, and Vince watches the bottle go with him with a piercing need that could easily knock him off his feet if he weren't holding onto the back of a chair. Jameson clears his throat. "Aren't you... like, sober now?"

"Mmmn. Was. Got the like... three month chip thing and everything." He's gotten thoroughly wasted so many times in his life. Nothing relaxes him better than enough alcohol to force his body to stop living in constant, unending fear of who might hurt him next. "Right now, I am tipsy instead. In about an hour, I'm going to be absolutely fucked up. Give me back my gin."

Jameson's hand moves - then he jerks it back, taking a few steps backwards until he's back in the doorway. His eyes are on Vince's face, watching him with a total focus that Vince recognizes from the others he's worked with over the years - Jameson's just a trained pet, in this moment, watching to see if the master will be angry.

It makes him laugh again, more bitterly this time. Is he the master? Has he ever been his own master, let alone anyone else's?

"I... I can't do that," Jameson says, and Vince hears that he doesn't say no. When Vince moves towards him, he backs up a little more, and Vince comes to a stop just a foot or so away.

"Am... am I scaring you?" He asks, suddenly.

It wasn't what he meant to say, he meant to demand his drink again. Instead, this question that... that just sort of falls out of him like a waterfall.

Jameson's jaw sets and his eyes narrow. "You're not doing shit to me," He snaps, but Vince knows he's really saying yes.

Is this why people buy pets? So they can see something pretend not to be scared, and know they're the monster not just under the bed, but in it?

"Oh," He whispers. "What is it? Why are you scared? I'm just a drunk asshole, why are you scared of me?"

Jameson bristles, but then he offers - as if it's pulled out of him against his will - the softest explanation. "Brute and Robert got drunk all the time. I know what happens when-... when people get this kind of drunk."

There's a look in his eyes Vince has seen before in Kauri's. Not fear of him, not directly, but fear of someone like him, maybe. Fear of having demands made that can't be denied.

Is this how Owen felt, every time Kauri had to playact the loving boyfriend with bruises on his wrists and terror making his heart race? Is this how it feels to have power over somebody else when you can't even control yourself?

It's... it's good, almost.

It feels better than he thought it would.

"Back up, Shield," Jameson hisses, like a cat spitting and arching its back, ready to attack with claws and sharp teeth not because it's confident in victory but because it's so small it has to fight to have even the slightest chance to survive.

Vince looks him over, reading with an actor's expertise how he's projecting a confident swagger he never feels, how the irritation layers itself so carefully over a vulnerability that he sees as weakness. Vince has lived that way, too, since he was twenty-one, since his best friend turned out to be a rapist who wanted Vince to himself, since he started drinking to forget every single night and putting on the perfect face during his days.

They both survived, didn't they?

Jameson just did it by fighting his way out, and Vince by pretending to be someone he wasn't until nobody knew who he actually was, and that's a way of surviving, too. Wear another face, and make sure no one sees the fear in your real one, so they can't refuse to help you... because you've never asked.

"No." At least one of them can say it. Although that makes Vince's heart twist with ugly guilt, the petty cruelty of the thought. "Give me my gin," Vince says, pitching his voice low, and holds out his hand. "Now, Jameson. Give it to me."

"I can't." The strength is gone from Jameson's voice, and he looks at Vince with those dark eyes searching his own, trying to make himself understood. "If you drink, your-... your body's not used to it anymore, if you drink the same amount you'll fucking kill your stupid liver."

"What do you care about my liver?" Vince's voice drops low, almost a whisper. "What do you care about me, about my goddamn joke of a life, huh? What the fuck do you care? Why should anyone care?"

There's a flicker of something in Jameson's eyes - recognition, maybe. Something that lights up, just for a second, before the other man shoves Vince to the side with sudden violent strength and stalks to the sink, turning the bottle over and pouring that expensive artisan gin right down the drain.

"No!" Vince's voice is a ragged shout as he lunges after him, but it's too little too late.

Jameson's foot kicks out and slams into Vince's calf, sending him stumbling, clawing desperately as the gin is gone, glug glug glug, down into the pipes, disappearing towards the ocean.

Rage and terror fight in Vince's mind in a sudden white noise and he gets to his feet, grabbing Jameson by the arms and squeezing as hard as he can, shoving him back across the room. He hears Jameson hit one of the chairs, the clatter of wood and Jameson's grunt of pain as both hit the ground hard. The bottle is in the sink, and even when Vince scrambles to pick it back up, there's less than an inch of gin left.

He sucks it down, and only once he's gotten that final drop does he suddenly go still.

Oh.

There's the guilt and the horror and feeling sick at himself, just... twenty minutes too late. He sets the empty bottle carefully down, and then turns slowly around to look at Jameson.

Jameson sits on the kitchen floor, staring up at him with wide eyes. His face is pale, making the scar that twists the corner of his mouth stand out even more. His hair is nearly grown back in now, the bald patches hidden by the rest.

Vince exhales in a rush. "Oh, hell. Jameson-" He holds out a hand.

Jameson flinches.

Vince pulls his hand back, backing up until his back hits the edge of the sink. "Right. Okay. I'm-... I'm sorry Jameson-"

"Yeah." Jameson's voice is gruff, all the vulnerability and fear wiped away as soon as he realizes it's showing. He gets to his feet, shoulders protectively hunched, arms crossed in front of himself defensively. "Whatever. Sure you are. Drink yourself to death, shitbag, if that's what you want."

"I'm so sorry."

Jameson's jaw works. "... Everybody's always sorry. Then I get fucking hit again." Then he turns and walks - limps, really, his knees threatening to give out with every step - away. Vince stands there, frozen, listening as he makes his slow, painful way up the stairs.

Vince stares at the place he was for a while - he isn't sure how long. The gin is sinking its velvet claws into his mind, and he's drunker than he should be after only two drinks.

But then, it's been months.

Months, he made it without taking even a sip.

He swallows, again and again, and then pulls his cell phone out of his pocket, finds a contact, and presses the button to make the call.

The phone rings until he's certain it'll go to voicemail, before a voice he knows as well as his own is in his ear.

"What the hell do you want?"

"I-I need to talk to you," He stammers, his heart cold. "Please. Please. I-I've been drinking. I need... I need help."

There's a pause.

"From... me?"

"Yeah... yeah. You'll-... I need somebody who won't be nice to me-"

"Oh, well, if there's anything I love it's the chance to be mean to you, let me drop my entire life to come listen to you whine about yours."

"Please."

An exhale. "Whatever. Yeah, okay. I'll be over there in like... half an hour? An hour, maybe. Drink some water and I'll be there as soon as I can. Don't leave the house."

"Thanks... thank you, Kauri."

Kauri hangs up.

Vince pours himself a glass of water over the leftover gin-soaked ice, sipping it, barely flavored with a hint of the liquor he wants so badly. He rights the chair he'd accidentally shoved Jameson into, and listens to the creaking floorboards and muffled cursing above him as Jameson makes his halting painful way from stairway to his room, a couple thumps when he clearly falls and had to force himself back upright, until the pacing abruptly stops when he must have collapsed into his bed.

He hears the gentle patting of Trash Cat's paws as she leaves her place on the living room couch and follows him, too, her soft meowing until Jameson opens his door to let her come in after him. Then silence again.

Vince sits back down at the table, leaning over with his head in his hand, staring as the ice slowly melts, cooling the water around it.

He should have called his sponsor instead.

Whatever Kauri is about to say can only make this worse.

But he deserves it, anyway.

Vince doesn't move a muscle until he hears the sound of Jake's truck pulling into the driveway, crunching briefly over gravel before it's on the pavement again, when he raises his head.

Kauri walks in without knocking, stops in the doorway to the kitchen, and looks at him like his younger self ashamed of what he's grown into. Vince knows Jake must have driven him, but he's nowhere to be seen - maybe just staying outside, for now. He's clearly dressed for bed in a matching navy blue silk button-up and pajama pants, barefoot even.

"Hey," Vince says, weakly. The alcohol feels like poison now, not the soothing warmth it had been before. "I... I fucked up, Kauri."

"Yeah, I can tell just by looking at you, you're a goddamn mess." Kauri looks at Vince head-on, even though it still hurts him to do it, and Vince can see the flinch he suppresses as the headache kicks in. His blue eyes are identical to Vince's in nearly every way, except that Kauri's gaze has always been stronger. "What the hell did you do?"

"I got... I drank."

"Yep. I can see the gin bottle. Did you drink all of it?" Kauri's voice is flat and businesslike. It's like having his own younger self dressing him down, and somehow that feels... really good. Better than he thought it would.

"... No. Just a couple drinks. Jameson poured the rest out."

"Good for him." Kauri flickers a smile. "Where is he?"

"I-... I scared him."

"... you scared him?"

"Yeah. I was-... I wasn't-... I didn't mean to, but-"

"Shut up. All right. Tell me what you did. I'll fix it. This time, taking your place so I suffer for years while you run off and become obscenely wealthy is off the table, got it?"

Vince looks at him in horror only to see a surprising warmth in Kauri's smile. Not... not affection, but something like it. A wry compassion, maybe. Something else he doesn't deserve. "I don't know. I don't know if I can fix this, Kauri. I don't know."

"Well... I happen to the resident expert in trying to avoid dealing with your problems while making them all worse, so talk to me. Tell me what you did, start to finish. We'll figure out what comes next."

Vince lowers his head into his arms.

"Thank you," He says, muffled.

"Not enough thanks in the world, dumbass. Lucky for you I'm an amazing person who just happens to have spent most of my twenties making stupid drunk mistakes. So stop stalling and start talking."

-

@finder-of-rings @endless-whump @arlin-always-writing @newandfiguringitout @doveotions @pretty-face-breaker @gonna-feel-that-tomorrow @boxboysandotherwhump @oops-its-whump @whumpyourdamnpears @cubeswhump  @whump-tr0pes @whumptywhumpdump @whumpiary @orchidscript @outofangband @hackles-up @grizzlie70 @mylifeisonthebookshelf @keeper-of-all-the-random-things @autophagay

[saintivcryarchive]

wntrflln​:

kieran  ran  a  hand  down  joshua’s  back  when  he  finally  joined  her ,  looking  toward  ward  when  he  spoke  before  looking  toward  their  mom ,  eyes  almost  narrowing  as  she  didn’t  offer  anything  to  joshua  at  first  .  typical  .  she  was  almost  going  to  say  something  before  marisa  beat  her  to  it . ‘  well ,  hopefully  everyone  can  get  to  know  each  other  a  bit . ‘  kieran  didn’t  think  that  was  really  going  to  happen  even  if  that  was  the  point  of  them  coming  here .

‘  maybe , ‘  riley  hummed ,  lips  tipping  up . ‘  but  hey ,  if  stretch  over  there  isn’t  interesting  at  least  ya  still  got  quin . ‘  they  leaned  in ,  kissing  kauri’s  cheek  before  looking  back  at  topper  when  he  spoke . ‘  thank  god ,��  riley  breathed  out , ‘  i’m  in .  ‘

dakota  knew  how  marisa  operated  and  it  was  clear  she  already  made  up  her  mind . ‘  shame ,  he  seems  nice .’  and  if  kieran  liked  him ,  that  really  spoke  to  something . she  moved  into  the  kitchen  with  gabriel ,  ‘  well ,  they  still  got  us  and  it’s  not  like  we’re  going  to  make  asses  out  of  ourselves  here . ‘  it  seemed  as  if  everyone  else  was  willing  to  give  josh  and  even  the  other  two  a  chance .

rafe  wasn’t  paying  attention  to  topper .  his  eyes  were  on  ward  before  topper  stepped  in  front  of  him .  he  looked  up  when  riley  was  quick  to  offer  to  join . ‘  go  ahead ,  i’ll  be  out  there  in  a  second . ‘ 

josh looked back at kieran and half smiled, he wasn’t sure where he went wrong but he imagined that marisa had made up her mind on looks alone. he glanced over his shoulder as the younger people of the bunch drifted towards the back door, kauri, however, remained, flashing a warm smile at josh — thank god one person was staying for moral support. josh turned to make his way into the living room, looking towards rafe and giving a small smile, before reaching for kieran’s hand again, “ don’t suppose that’s a good sign, huh?”

gabriel nodded his head, “ she’s too critical, it’s not fair.” but he knew how these things went, he just had to be the one that reigned marisa in, since her husband was only interested in fuelling the fire. he looked towards dakota with a sigh, “ he does seem nice, he seems like a good kid — you’re right, at least she got us.” he leaned over, planting a gentle kiss to dakota’s mouth, “ must be nice not to be in the hot seat though, darlin’ .” he glanced up as topper ventured outside with riley on his heel, “ ten minutes, top.”

topper had rather hoped to give rafe a way out, though it didn’t appear he was in too much of a need of escape just yet. he paused, raising his brows as if to give the other a chance to change his mind, before nodding and moving out towards the back door. “ you got it,” he beamed, making his way outside with the dog rushing out from behind him and launching into the yard. he took a seat on the porch swing and looked up at riley, “ topper, by the way, I’m —“ he paused, “ me and rafe are —“ he rolled his eyes, “ friends.” he dug out his lighter and his tin, “ you smoke weed?”

[zsjudgingyou]

Meet Zyra

[Legs curled beneath me, I hunched over the large, ancient book before me, my long fingers underlining each word of the text as I looked for the answers I needed. There had to be answers in here, I had searched every where else and was now out of places to search. What was wrong with me? Why was I so different from all the others? I blew out a puff of air to rid my face of the shock white hair that was only part of my problem. Over the years, I had grown used to being mocked for my marble white skin, my white hair, even my towering size, but this most recent development not only brought the standard ridicule, it brought on fears and threats against me, against my family. I had yet to speak of it to my parents or really anyone. They would never understand, they never did.  

Being the only son out of thirteen tries, (six sisters on either side of me) I was the heir apparent to the throne. People hated me for that alone, but my appearance gave them more ammunition. I flipped the page and kept searching, looking for anything related to shadows forming in times of trouble, controlling the darkness around one, something beyond even using souls, something deeper, darker, but was met with nothing more than what I already knew.

My mind went back to the previous week, I had been minding my own business when I was attacked from behind. It was nothing new, yet this time something different had happened. As I was being beaten by the five males, heavier and stronger than I, darkness crept from my fingers, twining the air around me, wrapping each male and throwing them far from me with a force like none other. Three ended up with broken limbs and all crawled away in severe pain, vowing to end the ‘freak’ once and for all. When I could catch my breath, I watched as the darkness slithered back inside my fingers and I could feel the sensations through every nerve. Anger, rage, and power. I hopped back to my feet and watched the bruising fade to nothing, felt my lip healing itself in record time. It was good in the sense that no longer would I need to hide after such events, but at the same time it was yet another thing that made me different, made me the freak that all were both fearful of and at the same time it drew the attacks. It had been obvious since birth I was unlike the other Belial Ruach, but now that it had gone beyond appearance, beyond my slow to anger demeanor, I began to wonder how long it would be before banishment took place. While my father held the throne, others could force his hand, especially if this latest development was made public. He could only hold them off for so long before he would be forced to act. No, I needed to find answers, figure out what was wrong with me before that. I… “ZYRA!!! Come on, are you ready?” My head whipped up from the text and my eyes trained on the small female standing in the doorway. “Zyra, you did not forget did you? You promised me!” I blinked slowly and let the question process before realization dawned on me. Kauri’s ruby eyes were wide and glistening with the threat of tears and her lower lip had begun to tremble. I put my page marker in the book and pushed off my sleeping pad, shaking my head as I walked over] Of course I did not forget, little one. I am to take you for your first excursion top-side to celebrate your day of birth. Are you certain you still want it to be me who takes you though?

[I pressed a finger under her chin and lifted her head to meet her eyes. Kauri smiled up at me, “Yes, Zyra, I want you to take me, Everyone knows you are the one with the talent in the family. Are you ready?” Kauri was the youngest of my sisters and while we were close, this honor was usually reserved for parents or the eldest sibling. Going topside for the first soul harvest of adulthood was a big deal, one that should not be taken lightly. In fact, up until last week, it was assumed Thila would escort her. Until Thila stated she needed to go to Tzelmoth to make arrangements for her upcoming nuptials. Kauri cornered me shortly after Thila’s announcement, the day after I was beaten, and had me promise I would take her. Immersed in research since then, time simply got away from me. Thankfully it would take nothing to prepare for the journey. My lips curved slightly and I nodded.] Give me a few minutes to prepare.

[Kauri bounced from one foot to the other while I gathered the items we would need. Perhaps this break would give my mind time to think, allowing the pieces of what I had learned to come together and make sense. I knew the answers had to be there, I was simply overthinking. Once I had everything in the bag, I led Kauri from my room and after telling our parents we were leaving, we made the trek through the tunnel system until we came to the portal we needed. A sense of unease crept up my spine as we walked and my eyes were on constant search for anything or anyone that seemed out of place. Kauri chattered nonstop which eased me slightly, but it wasn’t until we stepped through the gate that I let out a breath of relief. We emerged topside just outside of the cemetery and Kauri’s smile lit up the night sky. “Zyra, look at the moon! It’s huge.” She inhaled deeply, “What is that? It smells different up here! Zyra!” she pointed towards the church in the center of the cemetery, “What’s that?” Her excitement was contagious and I found myself smiling and forgetting all the troubles I had on my mind. I explained the various questions she had as I led her towards a fresh grave, promising we could even find a few of the flowers to take back with us if she wanted. She was already taking in the sights of the cemetery and making a list in her head before I finished even getting the words out. I knew I should have brought a bigger bag with me.

  I laughed soft and shook my head as I tried to get her attention back on the task at hand. We knelt beside the grave and I laid out the various herbs and the words Kauri would need to commit to her memory as we all had. I held her hands in mine as we faced each other on the dirt. I made her repeat everything three times, ensuring she knew what she needed to do, not willing to risk my baby sister should anything go wrong. Finally exasperated, Kauri pulled her hands free, “ZYRA! I knooooow, gods you need to stop treating me like a young.” I raised a brow] Kauri, remember, there are conse…

[My words were caught off by a whack to the back of my head. I remember seeing Kauri’s smile growing wider as I fell forward, face first into the dirt.]

[calciumcryptid]

May I please have some Naturalverse headcanons, good sir? In exchange, you may have Giftedverse headcanons

Yes you may my good mute!

By the way, Naturals is going through a soft reboot so names mentioned here might not be the final names in the end.

Naturalverse Headcanons Lore:

There are four different Natural teams for each section of the United States. These sections are West, Midwest, South, and Northeast. Hawaii and Alaska have their own thing going on.

The Midwestern Division is where the main trio that the story primarily follows is located. It's members are Euna Jay, Maxwell Torino, Tanner Brown, Alexis Wilson, and Kauri Greene.

The Southern Division is the secondary group. It's members are Maya Ranchhand, Cliff Smith, Camilla Cornwell, Echo Miners, and Rocco Huntsman post Scavengers.

The Western Division is the most underdeveloped group at the moment. It's members are Colorado Goldstone, Carson 'Gars' Goldstone, Sasha Vinogradov, and Samoset.

The Northeastern Division isn't that developed either and has a fairly small team that I have lost the names to because of course I have. Essentially this was going to be a more mystery driven team.

There are villain teams too!

The Scavengers are a thieves guild that comb through the streets looking for orphans with unnatural abilities then gaslight them into feeling indebted to them. They are sort of Tanner's main adversaries since he is the character I use for more 'political' themes

The Storm Coven are the overall bad guys, and everyone goes back to them as they are lead by Storm Lord who is a greedy spoiled brat who just wants the things other people want so he can sell it back to them with a marked up price. He has manipulated his adopted sister into proving her use to the family by helping them steal things, and the rest he sort of pays to stick around. Each member has a stake in the pot but it is Maxwell who is going to go up against Storm Lord.

The Mercenary Guild are another group of orphans who were backed into a corner and has to make money unconventionally to get by. They serve as Euna's main foils since it very much could of been the path she went down, and two people she knows are a part of the guild.

The Scorpions Den is the Western and Northeastern Divisions' problems as it is a brother sister duo who is hopefully in love with a member of both teams. The sister has a huge crush on Colorado Goldstone, and the brother has a crush on the brother of the leader of the Northeastern Division. So they keep commiting crimes with the hope of seeing their crushes.

That is it in terms of teams for now, but I do have a lot of shelved characters I'll have to figure out what to deal with eventually including abandoned teams that kind of disappeared after I took the series in a different direction. I'm not saying that they aren't going to appear again, but as of now they aren't.

[fatehbaz]

Ground-dwelling bat and parasitic plant.

[Pekapeka-tou-poto, lesser short-tailed bat with Dactylanthus taylorii. Art and photo by Erin Forsyth.]

The pekapeka-tou-poto or lesser short-tailed bat (Mystacina tuberclata) is one of two species of native bat present in Aotearoa. A third, the greater short-tailed bat (Mystacina robusta), was last sighted in 1967 is considered extinct.

These guys have short, velvety grey fur which forest debri easily brushes off. This is important, as they spend most of their hunting and foraging time on the forest floor - an unusual characteristic, as most bats catch their prey in flight or ‘on the wing’.

The pekapeka-tou-poto has the unique ability to fold its wings and tuck them up under a thick fold of skin close to the body. This enables their forearms and ‘thumbs’ (which protrude at the top of the wing) to act as front limbs. They use these, with their powerful back claws, to crawl and climb quite swiftly.

Pekepeka-tou-poto roost in groups in old growth forests, often in the hollowed trunks of ancient kauri. These activities make them especially vulnerable to predation. The communal roosts are not dissimilar to tree-hole nests of many native bird species, in that they often have only one entry/exit point, so if a predator comes in they may become trapped. [...]

Another fun fact is this bat’s relationship with the pua o te reinga (or flower of the underworld) known to Eurpoeans as the wood rose or Dactylanthus taylorii.

This is New Zealand’s only fully parasitic native plant. It grows underground, by attaching itself to the roots of a host tree. It is tuber-like in appearance, and shoots up male and female flowers while remaining hidden underground. The bats are attracted to its strong smell and have been seen with their little snouts covered in the dust of their pollen, aiding the pollination of this special plant in their activity. However the smell is also apparent to rodents and other predators, making this a risky business for the little bats.

Another unusual aspect of the plant is it’s ‘wood rose,’ which is actually formed by the host tree in reaction to the parasitic attachment. This became quite a commodity of trade during the peak of European collection of natural ‘exotic’ obscurities in the1800s (this craze may be better described as a frenzy, when the devastation it created is considered). But it has since been discovered that the plant actually derives its nutrients from this ‘rose’ and to remove it is to kill the plant. Due to this collection and the browsing of introduced animals, pua o te reinga is now itself a threatened species.

-------

Erin Forsyth, interviewed by Susan Strongman. “Artist Erin Forsyth wants you to care.” RNZ: The Wireless. 18 October 2017.

[steamberrystudio]

07/03 Weekly Update

Hello everyone! Sorry this is coming a little late this week. It's been a busy last couple of days!

But let us go forth and jump into the update!

Kickstarter:

Is over! 

The Kickstarter completed yesterday at 3:00 PM my time. We funded at over 25k AUD, which is really awesome! 

This is double what we were able to raise with Changeling, and it's really great to see how excited everyone is for Gilded Shadows.

Writing:

This week I finished up with Caissa Chapter Ten and have moved on to Chapter Eleven.

I finished the potato draft of Eleven, and started working on the edit. This is a really heavily character driven chapter. It does set up some plot things that will come back in subsequent chapters, and has a major event at the end, which will kick off the route climax.

I'm hoping the next chapters go quickly and I can get Cai's route wrapped up in the next couple of weeks. 

After this, I'm going to go back and make some changes to the Common route. This is mostly to facilitate the inclusion of the three additional routes that were added during the Kickstarter. But I'm going to talk about that in detail below.

Art:

This week in art, I started working on the sprite for Kauri Leere, one of the KS love interests. Even though the KS wasn't over yet, I was fairly confident his backer wasn't going to revoke her pledge, so I decided it wouldn't hurt to start getting his design under way.

I also expect Kauri to show up during Yuu's route. And I was also fairly certain we weren't going to lose access to Yuu's stretch goal.

I will show off his sprite when it's complete but the people who have seen it so far really like him! 

The additional routes mean I get to design some of the other unchosen LIs - Roan and Quill, specifically. Edan (another potential that wasn't chosen) will appear in Lance's route. 

I'm happy players will get to meet them even if they don't have routes!

Upcoming Week:

So there is going to be a lot of stuff going on in upcoming weeks. A lot of it will be related to KS rewards (sending out wallpapers and the like).

But on the development front, there's always a flurry of activity right after the funds come through because this means we can start commissioning people. Fortunately I've already been working with some of our artists and getting things together for them. So we can just order the backgrounds and run with it - they already have their descriptions and such. We're just waiting for payments to process.

That will save us a lot of effort now, since it's already done.

Once Caissa's route is complete, I will be going back to address some changes I need to make to the common route to facilitate the inclusion of the additional LI routes. This will mostly include making some changes to Reuben's introduction (including adding a backer character - Wynter) into the scene. He is Reuben’s partner and good friend.

Since all this will mean an update to the demo (most likely), that means players will get to see the new customisation options at that time, as well as some other additions.

And I may go ahead and include all or part of Chapter Four in that update. I'm still undecided.

Regardless, all of that is in upcoming weeks. For now we are focusing on finishing Caissa's route. We have three more chapters to go. And then we'll go back to do some common route work before we progress to the next route - which will be Caleb's.

We'll be really busy with a lot of stuff going forward but this is a really exciting time of game development because there are things that are really going to start coming together quickly and we'll have a lot of cool things to start showing you as opposed to just saying "We wrote things!"

(But we're going to be writing things for a really long time as well!)

So anyway - that’s all for now. We will see you guys next weeeek! *waves*

[xiolaperry]

The Piano - Chapter 5

Summary: Belle French and her daughter arrive in New Zealand to an arranged marriage with Gaston LeGume.  Gaston shows little interest in her or her piano and books. However, Mr. Gold is fascinated…

Rating: E (for smut, dark subject matter and violence in future chapters)

Also available on AO3

-

A routine was established. Belle came three times a week for hour-long “lessons.” When she finished, he'd lay a book on the bench. She'd give him a wary look, pick it up, and leave. He prepared tea before she arrived, placing it on a small table next to the piano. She never drank it.

Tilly accompanied her on sunny days and ate any available treats. On rainy days she would stay home and play with her doll or do lessons in a McGuffey reader Regina had given her. When there was a torrential downpour, they both stayed at home.

One damp morning, Tilly said, “Say hello to Ebony for me.”

Ebony? What was she talking about?

Tilly responded to her mother's puzzled look. “Mr. Gold's cat.”

“I didn't know she had a name,” Belle signed.

“When I asked her name, he said she didn't have one. Mr. Gold says when you name something you make a bond with it. It is a tree-men-dous — is that the right word, Mama? Tremendous responsibility. So, he told me I could pick a name! I thought and thought and picked the name 'Ebony'. Because she's black, like the black keys on the piano. Mr. Gold said it was perfect.”

As Belle picked her way through the mire that day, she pondered the cat story. Perhaps she ought to stop ignoring Mr. Gold.

---

Gold was in despair. Having her come and play for him was not having the desired effect. He'd hoped that familiarity would breed contempt. That hearing her perform regularly would make the music ordinary, and her also by extension. But the opposite happened.

Gold never spent time watching a woman before now. He enjoyed women, found them attractive, received sexual pleasure from them. But Belle’s concentrated playing meant he could study her without being chastised for staring. And he liked what he saw. He cataloged the different emotions flitting across her face, and they were like moonlight reflected on water, shimmering and changing.

She entered the house stiff and proper, wrapped up tight in her dark long-sleeved dresses, relaxing only when her fingers touched the keys. She was layered, a mystery to uncover. He wanted to know her. What did she think about when she walked home? Did she hate him for possessing her piano, her books?

Every evening he chose a book to peruse, his reading painfully slow. He’d exaggerated when he said he couldn’t read — he just wasn’t good at it. For the first time he wished he was better educated. His candles burned low as he struggled, sometimes only deciphering six words in a dozen. If he understood these things she valued, he might understand her. But for now he used the books as a gesture, a way to show appreciation and perhaps reach a truce.

It did not change the fact that he was at least twice her age, an old man. And she was married to Gaston. A proxy marriage, not even in person, and most likely unconsummated if his suspicions were correct. But it was a marriage nonetheless.

During the night he’d resolve to return the piano and never see her again. It was ludicrous to torment himself with something he could never have. His will would crumble the moment he saw her face.

Now, he walked around the room as he listened and observed. Her hair was up, leaving her beautiful neck bare. She was irresistible. Without thinking about what he was doing, he reached out and caressed her neck and shoulder.

Belle jumped, startled. She bumped the small table with the tea on it, knocking it to the floor.

“I'm sorry,” Gold said.

Belle knelt to pick up the blue and white cup. It now had a chip in it. She appeared contrite, holding the cup out to him, her trembling finger tracing the damaged rim.

“It's just a cup. I shouldn't have touched you. It's my fault.”

Her complexion ashen, she grabbed her bonnet and turned to leave. Gold was sure he would never see her again if he didn't act quickly.

“Belle, wait.”

She stopped, but did not face him.

“I would like to make a deal.”

She remained motionless.

He thought fast. “I've been returning one of your books each time you've come. But wouldn’t you like more than books? Would you like to earn your piano back?”

This got her attention. She spun around, skirts swirling.

“One visit for each key. You come here, play for me, and we'll spend some time together. When you're done, the piano will be yours again.”

She pointed at the piano and walked two fingers up her arm. He frowned, then understood.

“Yes, I would have the piano delivered to your home. I wouldn't keep it here.” Clever girl, spotting a potential loop-hole and asking for clarification. Tricking Belle that way never crossed his mind, but he'd turned ambiguous terms to his favor many times. Few people recognized the importance of details.

She bit her lip, considering his proposal. After a moment of reflection, she ran her hand down the black keys, then did the same to the white ones while shaking her head.

“One visit for each of the black keys?”

Belle nodded.

“That's a lot less. Half.”

She started toward the door again.

“All right,” he conceded. “The black keys.” He supposed it was appropriate. They were dark, like he was inside. He wanted to enjoy her light for a little while longer, and then he would let her go.

Belle sat down. She played the lowest black key and held one finger in the air.

“The deal is struck.”

---

Belle continued her visits with renewed confidence. His cool hands had shocked her, and her initial concern at the mention of a 'deal' was that he'd ask something indecent of her. Instead, all he seemed to want was her time. Mr. Gold had offered a choice, and she would get her piano back.

Now, more comfortable, she drank the tea Mr. Gold prepared and ate the food he put out for them. Sneaking glances at him from the corners of her eyes, she noted he drank from the chipped cup. Who was this man that didn't throw away something damaged, who traded some of his land for a piano he couldn't play and books he couldn't read? And then traded them back simply for the pleasure of her company? He dressed well, in quality waistcoats and cravats. His long hair, silver at the temples, looked soft. He was rather handsome in his own way. He wasn't who she thought he was at the beginning, and she was glad.

Belle paid close attention when Mr. Gold spoke to Tilly, who visited Ebony on pleasant days. He was never condescending. He asked questions and listened to the answers, offering advice on her little projects.

After their conversation Tilly would take the cat outside to play, dressing her up in hats and skirts she'd made from scraps of fabric. The cat, though tolerant, only endured the indignity for so long, and then would hide under the house. She never followed her under there, even though she'd fit. Spiders might lurk in the dark.

Mr. Gold's insomnia had not returned, and his dreams were filled with music. And of her. How had she so permeated his life? He made it a point of pride to need no one, and now this tiny woman and her child turned everything upside down. As he carved a piece of kauri wood, he realized he was lonely. And he wanted to touch her again, desperately. When he stroked her neck, it had been the first time he had touched someone deliberately in as long as he could remember. And, having done it, his fingers itched to do it again. But she was so closed off in her wrist length sleeves and heavy skirts.

Small shavings piled on the table as his deft fingers coaxed a cat out of the wood. He turned it in his hands, scrutinizing it. He added whiskers and tiny eyes with the point of his knife. And pondered it until the candle burnt out.

The next time she came, he sat down on the floor as she played.

“Lift your skirt please.”

Her playing faltered.

“I want to see your feet on the pedals.”

The request surprised her, but she complied. She took a deep breath and lifted her skirt and petticoat to her knees. The music began again.

Belle's legs captivated Gold. He watched her shapely calves work the pedals until the compulsion was too strong. He reached out with one finger and traced the line of her calf down to her small muddy boots.

Belle felt his stroking, but went on playing. He stayed below her knee and strayed no higher. How strange to play the piano while being touched by another. It was distracting, but not unpleasant. His touch tantalized; the prospect of what he might do next slowed the melody down, the notes becoming lazy and sensual. Her focus narrowed in on the unfamiliar sensations he was causing and the music ceased.

He talked to fill the silence. About Scotland, his youth in Glasgow, the topic mundane to keep his yearning in check. It was as if he was talking to himself. His fingers continued traveling over her stockings. When he paused, she played a loud, upbeat tune to break the moment. The jarring melody doused him like a bucket of icy water. He stopped, trance broken. Using his cane, he stood up and sat in the chair across the room. He stayed there, motionless, until she finished.

He added the carved cat to the customary book he gave her.

“For Tilly.”

Her eyes sparkled. Gold chided himself, noting her flushed cheeks as she left. He had embarrassed her with his clumsy pawing and inane conversation. Terrorizing some townspeople would make him feel more like himself. Instead, he picked up his knife and another piece of wood.

Granny stopped in a few hours later.

“What's wrong with you?”

“I don't know.”

“You're sitting around here, moping. Kamira hasn't seen you in days. You haven't been yourself ever since you brought that woman and her child back from the beach.”

“I know.”

“Well?”

“I've made a deal, dearie, and I intend to follow it through. And when it's done, everything will return to normal. You'll see.”

[abigailskoda]

Burma's Naga People And Kaing Bi

To a great extent obscure and for all intents and purposes isolated from the remainder of the world live in the north-west of Burma in a remote and for outsider as a rule out of reach some portion of the nation inborn individuals who were in the not very removed past referred to and dreaded as talented and excited head-trackers: The Naga.

Burma has a huge number of various indigenous ethnic gatherings however not every one of them are perceived by the Burmese government. Those perceived are gathered in eight principle gatherings of as they are authoritatively called 'Significant Ethnic Races'. These are subdivided into 135 distinctive ethnic gatherings (clans). The Naga individuals are one of them. They comprise of 14 Naga slope clans, for example, the Kanyaks, Angamis, Aos, Chang, Rengmas, and so forth.

The home of the Naga individuals is Nagaland. With 6.401 square miles/16.579 square kilometers the biggest piece of Nagaland is situated in the north-easternmost piece of India where the western Naga individuals have their own, discrete, self-administering state inside the Indian Union. The Naga have two agents in the Indian national parliament and the little city of Kohima is their capital. The Indian piece of Nagaland is in the west and north-west circumscribed by Assam State, in the north-east by Arunachal Pradesh State and in the south by Manipur State. In the east, it is circumscribed by Burma where the littler piece of Nagaland lies.

An enormous region of the Burmese piece of Nagaland is as blocked off as the Indian part. It is incredibly sloping, thickly lush and sprinkled with profound waterway valleys Jewellery Design Competition. It extends along the Burmese/Indian fringe in the upper Chindwin River locale into regions of the Kachin State toward the east and in the northernmost piece of Chin State. In like manner, most by far of Naga individuals are living in the Indian piece of Nagaland, which is more thickly populated than the Burmese piece of Nagaland. As for the all out size of the Burmese piece of Nagaland no data have been accessible to me.

The complete number of all Naga individuals (Nagaland India and Nagaland Burma together) isn't actually known. The absolute populace of Nagaland in India is known to be around 2 million (what number of them are ancestral individuals I can't state) however the quantity of Naga individuals making their home in Burma (the eastern Naga, 4 primary clans and 49 groups) isn't known. Figures somewhere in the range of 70.000 and 500.000 are available for use yet as indicated by my examination the quantity of Naga in Burma is most presumably somewhere close to 150.000 and 200.000.

The five greatest towns, towns or townships in Burma's Nagaland are Khamti, Lahe, Layshi (Lashee), Nanywun and Htamanthi. The primary spot to show up when coming to Nagaland is Khamti. From that point it is conceivable to proceed to different spots.

As for the early history of Nagaland and the starting point of the Naga very little is known. It isn't certain whether they have a typical or assorted ethnic foundation. Since the individuals of Asia, particularly of South-East Asia, are considerably more assorted than those of different mainlands it is hard to discover. Contingent upon the sources in Burma tapped one catches wind of Karen associations, Chin relations and additionally Tibeto-Burman (Mongolian line) birthplace. By and by, I favor the last mentioned.

Getting to and into the Burmese piece of Nagaland requires most importantly an appropriate authorization gave by the pertinent specialists, besides an accomplished nearby guide and thirdly to be very brave; it is harsh voyaging and nothing in the method for extraordinary solace is not out of the ordinary, also extravagance.

Albeit certain things of present day life, for example, plastic packs, plastic ransacks and strips, recorded music and in all honesty films and even karaoke have just discovered their way into certain spots of the not all that effectively available Nagaland the Naga individuals are surely one of this present earth's generally immaculate by-current life-individuals who despite everything stick immovably to their old conventions. Since they appear to be content with their lifestyle this is something worth being thankful for. Yet, as much as it is attractive that the old traditions and habits just as convictions are kept alive and rehearsed there are unquestionably cutoff points to what one considers commendable conservation. Thus it is consoling to realize that for example the custom of head-chasing - which as I am certain was the fundamental explanation behind the Naga's not being among the 'best ten' of those clans that numerous individuals were keen on drawing nearer familiar with - was deserted in the relatively recent past and is right now not rehearsed any longer.

Albeit banned under British standard during the 1890s, scouting was as yet rehearsed by the Nagas at any rate till well into the 1940s. Scouting was significant for the Nagas since they accepted that the ownership of an executed individual's (enemy's) head, which they thought is where the 'mio' (soul) is found would bring about the transference of the separate (unfortunate) individual's qualities and mental fortitude to the triumphant warrior what might expand riches and fruitfulness of the one having taken the head. Additionally, having taken heads did altogether raise the status of a warrior.

Coincidentally, the Naga clans assumed a job not to be disparaged in significance during WWII. All the more correctly stated with regards to the freedom of Burma from the Japanese military by the British with help of American and Chinese powers. As General (later Field-Marshal) William J. Thin in his book 'Transforming Defeat into Victory' watches: "... dynamic help of the nearby tribesmen. These were the brave Nagas whose dependability, even in the most discouraging occasions of the attack had never floundered. Regardless of beating, torment, execution and the copying of their towns, they would not help the Japanese in any capacity or to double-cross our soldiers. Their dynamic assistance to as was past worth or applause... They guided our segments, gathered data, trapped foe watches, conveyed our provisions, and acquired our injured under the heaviest fire - and afterward, being the men of honor they were, regularly denied all installment. Numerous a British and Indian officer owes his life to the stripped, head-chasing Naga, and no trooper of the Fourteenth Army who met them will ever consider them yet with reverence and friendship."

Be that as it may, the Naga individuals are not just knowledgeable in the craft of wilderness fighting. They are additionally notable for their ability in makes basically woodcarving, material and crate weaving and to some prominent degree metallurgy and metalwork. These expressions have created from getting things done due to legitimate need instead of the aim to deliver something excellent. Allow us to take, for example, the lovely covers and shawls the Naga's are weaving and wearing. They are a significant thing of dress particularly during freezing (however only occasionally freezing) winters in the mountain zones. Both, female and male the same utilize these covers as a body wrap or material. Be that as it may, the structures of male covers vary from those of female covers.

The structures additionally contrast from clan to clan and sub-clan to sub-clan as they demonstrate inborn alliance. The Naga esteem these body materials profoundly and they are passed down from age to age for which reason many of the gladly worn covers are valuable legacies. The material these covers are made of is fleece. The essential shading sets are for the most part red and dark, orange and dark, red and blue, red and green just as white, red and dark. The hues utilized are extremely splendid, striking and intense. The structure components are overwhelmingly geometric example, for example, crosses, squares and stripes. The covers do at times have a band portraying creatures (frequently painted) running from one side to the next through the sweeping's middle. Materials used to decorate the covers are little polished and splendidly hued cowrie shells orchestrated around and around as well as twofold circles, lines and stick figures and slyly sewed unto the covers.

The cowrie (cypraeidae) is a marine mollusc with a smooth, domed shell with a long, limited and toothed opening. The name is gotten from the Hindu name 'Kauri'. The cowrie mussel is normal to tropical waters and particularly the yellow-white shaded cowrie shell (cypraea moneta) of the purported 'cash cowrie' was once in the past among others in Asia widely utilized as money. Be that as it may, considerably higher prized than the cowrie shell is among the Naga the greater conch shell.

The conch (family strombidae) is a marine mollusc. The name is applied to numerous types of marine snails. The genuine conch has a hearty winding shell with covering whorls, which may bear long, hook like projections and a flared lip. Portions of the conch shell are utilized as studs (worn by ladies and men the same), jewelry fastens or are utilized to make a crown. Concerning woodcarving, the Naga individuals cut everything from bowls and funnels to plates, spoons, coffins, and so on and are popular for molding regarded individuals, for example, expired relatives and warriors. The statues are dressed in customary dresses and enhanced with Naga hats and splendidly shaded beaded accessories. Among authorities these wooden Naga figures are as of now high prized objects. The Naga apply their significant woodcarving aptitudes likewise with regards to the adornment of totems. Totems and chain of commands assume a significant job in the Naga culture similarly for what it's worth in the way of life of for example North American clans of red Indians. Naga individuals praise a great deal of celebrations yet 2 of the significant celebrations are the Hornbill Festival in the main seven day stretch of December and Kaing Bi the Naga Lunar New Year in January.

[rhnuzlocke]

Episode 21

Scene 4:

[Ren and Kai arrive at Wally’s house in Petalburg and knock on the door. Wally answers it and blinks in surprise.]

Wally: H-hey. What are you guys doing here?

Ren: I had a bad morning.

Wally: Oh no. What happened?

Ren: I’ll tell you about it later.

Kai: Sorry to surprise you like this.

Wally: That’s okay. Come in. [holding the door open for them] I was just watching some TV. My parents are at work.

[They walk down the hall to the living room where a large screen is playing the news.]

Ren: You’re watching the news?

Wally: Yep. They’ve been talking about you all morning. Check it out.

[Ren catches sight of herself on the screen as she sits down on the couch And Kai and Wally sit down on either side of her.]

Wally: Apparently so many people were watching the livestream in Johto that it crashed for a bit. People even had viewing parties and stuff. Look.

[On screen Ren sees people gathered at the small temple in her hometown, lighting incense and leaving offerings. They even play a clip of some of her old school friends being interviewed, but she can’t hear what they are saying because the Anglic-speaking newscaster is talking over it.]

Wally: They’ve been playing clips of the championship battles and the interviews after. They played your Dual Pulse episodes twice. I wouldn’t be surprised if you get a request for your gym battle videos.

[Next the news switches over to discussing her run-ins with Magma. The trio watches quietly As Wall’s pokemon appear and slip outside to join the others. The segment moves on to talking about Ren’s involvement in the Rusturf Tunnel deal. Hauoro and Kauri talk about Ren for a bit and there is even a clip of Terra, who seems to still be working construction. Ren stares at the screen, face slipping into a more and more perturbed expression as time goes on. Kai glances over at her.]

Kai: Are you okay?

Ren: Yeah, this is just mega surreal. I guess I should have expected it but…

Wally: I bet. It’s a little weird for me and they’ve barely even mentioned me.

[Ren sinks back into the couch with a sighs and stares up at the ceiling as the news continues to drone on in the background. Kai and Wally look at her and then at each other.]

Wally: You want to watch anime instead?

Ren: Yes please.

[Wally puts on Cardcaptor Sakura, which Ren watched reruns of as a child. They watch a few episodes and Ren smiles again. They break for lunch and Ren tells Wally about her parents while he gets out food and Kai goes to let the pokemon in.]

Ren: [as they clean up after] You know, I think maybe you two should take the meteor shower tickets.

Wally: What?

Kai: But what about you and your mom. She might change her mind.

Ren: I doubt it and I don’t really want to go without her. And if she does, I’m pretty sure I could replace them. Cosmo really owes me for the life saving and, uh… some other stuff. I’m sure he could get us in.

Wally: Are you sure—

Ren: Positive. [pulling the tickets out of her pocket] Please take them. I don’t really want to look at them. You’d be doing me a favor.

[Wally starts reaching out for them but hesitates, glancing nervously at Kai.]

Ren: Think of it as a thank you for sticking around through all of my shit.

Kai: You don’t need to thank us.

Ren: I want to. [waving the tickets at Wally] Come on, this is like a once in a lifetime chance. It’s supposed to be spectacular.

[Wally swallows hard and his brow sets. He takes a deep breath and takes the tickets. Ren smiles.]

Wally: [blushing deeply and unable to look at anyone] S-so, um, Kai, will you go with me?

Kai: Yeah, of course. I actually really wanted to go.

[Wally blushes even harder and clutches at his chest. Kai looks at him but can’t quite see his face past the mop of green hair. He smiles, fond and a little amused and Ren grins.]

Ren: So, do you have any video games?

Wally: Yeah, they’re all up in my room though.

[Wally turns to lead them upstairs and Ren’s nav rings. She checks it and sees that it is Dizzy calling.]

Ren: You two go ahead. I better take this.

[Wally and Kai head upstairs while Ren walks outside and accepts the call.]

Ren: Moshimoshi.

Dizzy: Good morning, Ren. Is this a good time?

[Ren’s eyebrows raise at the Anglic and she responds in kind, though a bit slower than she would normally.]

Ren: As good a time as any, I suppose. What can I help you with?

Dizzy: I was wishing—hoping? You may agree to learn—help me to learn Anglic, if you can spare the time.

Ren: I guess. I mean, I may be busy, but I’m sure we can arrange something. You know, that wasn’t so bad. I thought you didn’t know much Anglic.

Dizzy: Still true and none to read or to write. I have no skill in language, but I learned a little as a child. I have been staying with Kaspa since we returned. Valiance is fluent and has been helping me.

Ren: She lives at the Champion palace too?

Dizzy: From time to time, yes.

Ren: Wow. It must be one big family there.

Dizzy: [grunts] Kaspa has many spouses for an unmarried woman.

Ren: [laughs] Why did I never read that in the tabloids? [Dizzy is silent on the other end.] Anyway, why the sudden interest, if you don’t mind me asking?

Dizzy: I want to be able to speak to Wallace without a translator.

Ren: Oh, are you planning on visiting?

Dizzy: Yes. I was invited to your, ehhh… party?

Ren: The coronation ball?

Dizzy: Hai— er, yes. Wallace will be there, so I want to be able to speak some Anglic to him.

Ren: Ohhh. OH! Do you, um, like him?

Dizzy: I would like to know him? He is, errrr, very beautiful. I did not make great impression, I think. But I hear he likes men, so maybe some small chance? I will try my best. I have been training the feebas he gave to me. We hope that she will evolve before the ball to show to him.

Ren: Awww! That’s so sweet! I will absolutely help you! As soon as I have my schedule worked out a little better, I’ll send you some times we can practice together.

Dizzy: Dōmo arigatōgozaimasu.

Ren: You are welcome.

Dizzy: Ah, hai, thank you.

Ren: Aw man, I am killing it today.

Dizzy: Eh?

Ren: Sorry. Talk to you soon, Dizzy.

Dizzy: Goodbye.

[Ren hangs up her nav and hugs Taraki, who is hanging out with Jay and Kihei nearby. She talks to them for a bit, and then looks up at Wally’s window. She asks Kihei a question and he nods. Ren waves to the pokemon as she goes back inside.]

[forever-dreaming-cullen]

My Giant List of Fic Recs

I love reading fan fiction because it gives me more of my favorite characters and extends their stories, sometimes giving alternate glimpses of their personalities and ways of looking at them.  And, yes, I write fan fiction, too, although I don’t think I am anywhere near as good as my favorite authors.

Anyway, I would like to thank all of the wonderful people who create the stories that keep my up late at night reading when I should be sleeping. You are awesome! Even if your fic is not on this list, please know that you are still wonderful, and my thanks go out to you, as well.

The following is a list of my favorite fics, in no particular order.

Breaking the Divide (Remastered) by Fatally_Procrastinating (@fatally-procrastinating) : A slow burn Cullen/Female Trevelyan mage Inquisitor romance that runs through the events of the game and the moments in between.  It does stray from canon in that other DA characters are present that were not in Inquisition, but Cullen remains his adorable awkward self. I’m not sure if the author is still updating, as it’s been a while since the last update.

(Violet) by Lumidee:  (@lumidee-mahariel) A very non-canon look at Cullen’s life starting from when he joined the Order, through his time at Kinloch Hold, Greenfell, Kirkwall, Haven, and Skyhold. This fic includes graphic portrayals of rape and torture, so it is not for the faint of heart, and the Cullen that comes out of it is a very dark Cullen, indeed. However, as rough and beastly as he is portrayed, you can’t help but feel his pain.  Complete.

Nothing Else Matters by Lumidee (@lumidee-mahariel): A non-canon romance between Cullen and an elf-blooded non-Inquisitor OC, Hailey Trevelyan, this story features the same Cullen as in Violet, but with some differences, so this Cullen is dark, hard, and very sexual. This story is still in its early stages, but it had me hooked at Chapter one!

Desire and Temptation by 0102and03 (@ekoorb03): Two companion fics about a Commander and Inquisitor who are often at each other’s throats coming under the spell of a love…err…desire potion crafted by our favorite Tevinter mage and administered rather inexpertly by that loveable elf-prankster Sera. Sexy times are had, lots of sexy times and the Commander may or may not have come in his pants! Complete

The Scars We Hide by 0102and03 (@ekoorb03): A slow burn Cullen/Female Trevelyan Mage Inquisitor romance with non-canon elements, OCs, and plot twists galore. It features a broken Cullen and broken Trevelyan, too, as they struggle to overcome their issues and find each other. Still ongoing with regular updates.

This Feels Like We’re Falling in Love by commander_cullywully: A modern AU starring Cullen and a Gwen Trevelyan as college students. It’s a very cute romance featuring the awkward Cullen we all know and love, but in a college setting. Still ongoing, updated last in January of 2017.

Only Make Believe by blustersquall (@blustersquall): A modern AU romance in which  Nevena Trevelyan hires Cullen to pretend to be her boyfriend during her visit with her family over Christmas. Nevena’s family is a piece of work and secrets surround Nevena’s relationship with her ex, and Cullen is confident yet sweet and kind. Ongoing.

Serendipity by lylalavellan (@lylalavellan) A modern AU featuring Lyla Lavellan, a college student who lives in a house with Dorian, Cassandra, and Sera and works at the local pub with Cullen, who is a college drop-out due to health reasons. Cullen is in love with Lyla and but Lyla is in a relationship with Solas, who is an abusive asshat. Ongoing.

The Knight of Hampstead and its sequel, The Savior of Skyhold by stargirl428  In The Knight of Hampstead, Cullen gets transported from Thedas to modern-day London, where he is discovered by a group of roommates who figure out who he is and attempt to help him get back to Thedas. In the meantime, Cullen and the female protagonist Rose, end up falling in love. Their story continues in The Savior of Skyhold, in which Cullen takes Rose back to Thedas with him. Masterfully written, these stories meld Theodosian lore with the modern world in a seamless and believable way. The Knight of Hampstead is complete, The Savior of Skyhold is ongoing.

The Knight of Comic-Con by LasairTrevelyan : To be read at the same time as The Knight of Hampstead, Cullen attends Comic-Con with hilarious results. Complete.

Carl Hates You, Jim by HarbingerofWhimsy (@harbinger-of-whimsy) : A hilarious take on the famous Desk Scene through the eyes of a very unlucky guard named Carl. Carl is tasked with guarding the Commander’s door while Cullen is getting it on with Quizzy. Jim happens along and gets poor Carl in trouble with a very angry Commander. You need to read this story. It had me on the floor laughing it’s so funny! Complete.

A Cullenite’s Guide: How to be Inquisitor by Lourdes23 : Two girls unexpectedly bring Cullen to modern day Chicago by modding Dragon Age: Inquisition. Now they have to try and get him back to Thedas. Will one of them be able to keep herself from falling in love with him? This story has plot twists and a very unexpected ending with plenty of romance, too. (and some smut). Complete.

Learning Curve by bendy_quill: An exploration of the sexual aspects of the Cullen/Female Inquisitor relationship, in which Cullen apparently wants the Inquisitor to use his back door, but so far has been unable to get her to understand. Lots of exquisite sex scenes, including one with Cullen solo using a butt plug on himself. Very very hot, and a must read if you like steamy Cullen action. Ongoing, possibly abandoned as it hasn’t been updated in a while.

Seen by DrennTrev: This is an AU where Cullen is a southern cop, and his girl is a stripper. This is an unusual fic, because its characterizations are completely unique,.Read this if you want a completely different Cullen who sounds like a southern boy, but is still cute in all the important Cullen-ways.  It’s got 10 chapters, but may be abandoned as the author hasn’t updated in a while.

The Real World: Skyhold by ArchangelEquinox: A modern AU that puts all of the Dragon Age; Inquisition characters in a Real World-style reality show. Some characters from earlier DA games make an appearance, and it’s got a nice slow burn romance between Cullen and a female Trevelyan. Still ongoing, but possibly abandoned as it has not been updated in a while. I really hope the author continues, because I want to know what happens!

A Compromising Position by Seabirdsong (@seabirdsong ): Sera plays a prank on Cullen and Alistair by spiking their ales with an aphrodisiac that makes them really horny. Not wanting to inflict himself on the women of Skyhold, Cullen goes to Alistair’s room to see if he is feeling the effects as well. Of course, he is, and the two men decide to use each other to burn off their sexual desire. Very hot and very steamy male on male action. Plus it’s two handsome ex-templars going at it, how can you go wrong? Complete.

Letters from Orlais by Kauri (@kauriart): A steamy romp featuring our awkward Commander and his Trevelyan Inquisitor in which Cullen receives…letters from the Orlesian nobles he met at the Empress’ ball. The letters are, shall we say, graphic, and poor Cullen can’t help by being turned on by them, very turned on. He and Trev act out the letters and have some very very hot sex. This is so good, I can’t recommend it enough. On-going.

Midnight at Skyhold by LadyDanya @ladydanya: Cullen thinks the Inquisitor is too good for him, but when he hears about the Inquisitor’s fascination with one of Varric’s stories about a mysterious and anonymous lover who steals into a lady’s bedroom at night, he just has to make the Inquisitor’s fantasies come true. This story is full of awkward Cullen feels as his guilt wars with his desire for his Inquisitor. Ongoing,

All I Ask of You by Khirsah  @khirsahle: Josephine is throwing a masked ball, Orlesian-style at Skyhold. The Commander is none-to-pleased until Dorian convinces him to attend in disguise. There, he meets a mysterious young woman, and it’s love at first sight. I love this story so much! Cullen’s characterization is spot-on, and it’s a delight to read! Ongoing

Would You Have Me Beg? by bushviper @bushvipertoo : This story is both sexy and funny, featuring a confident Cullen and an awkward completely virginal Trevelyan Inquisitor. Evelyn hasn’t even kissed a man before Cullen, and she thinks that he would be better off with someone more experienced, so she breaks up with him, only to change her mind.after she realizes her mistake. Cullen takes her back, but only on one condition: she has to stay with him in his tower for five nights. A must read. Complete.

Least Likely To Succeed by bushviper @bushvipertoo: The story of a Circle mage and an ex-Templar through the events of the Inquisition. Cullen is his uptight self with a bit more humor, and Evelyn is a bit too light-hearted for our dear Commander’s comfort. I love the author’s characterizations of Cullen and Evelyn, and I’m waiting on tenterhooks for updates! Ongoing.

Claimed by cjulina : This story starts in Kirkwall during the period between the events of Dragon Age 2 and Inquisition. Cullen is the acting Knight-Commander of Kirkwall’s Templars and while on a mission, he and his men come across a mage hiding in the woods. That mage is Evelyn Trevelyan of the Ostwick Circle. The twist is that the Chantry has decreed that mages can be “Claimed” by a Templar and subject to his will. Unwillingly, Cullen claims her to protect her. A very interesting take on the Dragon Age universe and on Cullen himself and his relationship with Evelyn. Ongoing.

Wow. I’ve made a huge list of fics, and I honestly could go on and on, but I think I need to end this here. It’s so hard to make these lists because there is so much talent in the Dragon Age fandom. I love all of the writers who share their stories with the fandom. You extend the universe and give us more of our favorite characters to love. Thank you so much!

[parancid]

*×○ - ( @agxinstthecxrrent )

kauri walked into his bedroom, threw his backpack onto the floor and turned on his xbox, excitedly. the brown boy had just bought the new resident evil yesterday and has been glued to it ever since. a few minutes into the game, his bedroom door opened and a jump scare appeared, making kauri physically jump off the bed screaming, manly. “...jesus christ.” he mumbled, holding onto his chest.

[ashintheairlikesnow]

May we pls request a follow up fic of Jake finding and taking care of a sick Kauri who was out in the cold🥺🙏

For @amonthofwhump Day 8: Hot Chocolate

CW: Sick whumpee, Kauri's Poor Life Choices, survivor of abuse

-

"Stop staring," Kauri snaps, voice slurred as he drops into the passenger seat of Jake's ancient four-door. He's hunched over, the backpack taking its place between his knees. Jake knows Keira is in there, nestled into his extra clothes and with the toiletries, always with him when he goes.

"I'm not staring-"

"I look like sh-shit, I get it." Kauri rubs his hands together, and Jake tries not to be alarmed at how nearly blue the tips look, grayish-pale, even a little purplish. "I fuckin' get it, okay?"

Jake slowly nods. Kauri's curls are tipped in snowflakes that aren't melting as fast as they should, and there's no ruddy red to his cheeks and the tip of his nose like you'd expect from someone in the cold, only a smooth, almost porcelain paleness. It's weirdly beautiful, and Jake is determined not to notice it. "Yeah. Just-"

"I know. Should've called last night, I know." Kauri glares at the glove compartment, settling into a sullen sulk on his side. "But I didn't want to. So I didn't. Deal with it."

He sneezes, a weirdly kittenish sound.

Jake tightens his hands on the steering wheel so he won't lean over to touch him. "I get that. Kauri-... I just-... if you just call us we can help-"

"Stop it. I don't want help. I don't need help." Kauri's eyes drift closed, and he leans his head against the window as Jake starts the car, pulls out of the spot at the park where he'd waited and finally seen Kauri appear, stumbling out of the clump of trees and rocks where college kids go to be drunk idiots in the dark sometimes, alone.

Is Jake relieved he was alone, or sad that no one stayed with him overnight? He doesn't know. He's both. He's neither.

He just wishes he would have known Kauri didn't go home with someone, he would have come out here and dragged him home whether he liked it or not-

No, he wouldn't.

If he'd forced Kauri back, they'd never have seen him again. They'd be exactly what he thinks people are, then - just more assholes looking to lock him up and throw away the key.

He'd be right to run from people who didn't let him make the choice to stay on his own.

They drive in silence for a while, the car slowly filling with warm air as his heater finally decides to join the party and fucking work for once. The world around them is a silent white, snowflakes falling more heavily, building up alongside the road, turning to slush under Jake's tires. He has to take the turns slow - his tires are old, and they don't have the traction you need to drive in snow.

It's never mattered before - there's never been snow, not since Jake moved here.

He sees kids in big thick parkas starting to make their slow way out of their houses as he drives past them, parents equally hesitant. School's probably canceled, he thinks - who the hell has the ability to drive on snow and ice in this part of California except Midwestern transplants like Nat, Northeasterners, or people from up closer to the mountains?

"How do you feel?" He asks, just to fill the silence between them stretching on and on. The sound of a child's delighted, shocked laughter makes its way through the muffle of closed car doors, and he glances sidelong to see a little girl picking snow up in her mittened hands and flinging it into the air, eyes shining.

"Like I look," Kauri says, without looking back at him. "Plus I'm hungover as shit, so that's not helping."

"Yeah, they usually advise against being dehydrated when you get hypothermia, it ruins the fun." Jake's voice is dry, and Kauri looks over at him, a little surprised. There's almost a smile on his face, and Jake almost answers it. "But hey, if you're killing your liver, why not add every other organ to the failure party?"

Kauri groans, putting his hands up over his face. "Okay, Jake, I get it, I'm the poorly behaved very bad boy-"

"You could have called me, Kauri."

"I know, but I didn't want to go to Nat's last night, and last I checked I get to make that decision, not you-"

"You could have called me and I'd have bought you a fucking hotel room, if that's what you needed to be safe. To stay warm. I'd have dropped you off on some asshole's doorstep myself. Why didn't you just go home with somebody?"

"I didn't want to do that, either." Kauri's voice drops, low and soft. "I didn't want anyone to touch me, I didn't-... I didn't want-"

He shivers, and it's not until he does that that Jake realizes he hasn't been shivering, not the entire time.

That's probably not good.

"Shit. I'm sorry, Kauri, this isn't any of my business. I'm sorry. I'm just worried. I was worried about you."

"Besides," Kauri adds, overlapping him, not wanting to hear it. His eyelashes lay against his cheek in a way that Jake could write poetry about if he could ever write at all. "You don't have the money for a hotel room."

"Nat would have helped me with the cost."

"Then I'd owe her, too, wouldn't I?"

"You wouldn't owe anyone, this is what we do-"

"I don't want anyone's fucking help. I can do it on my own." Kauri's voice twists, and he's not really talking to Jake, is he? "I can do it on my own, I can."

"Of course you can." Jake's eyes catch sight of the sign ahead, and he pulls into the drive-thru lane behind the other twelve people out this early, sad bastards trying to make it to work before the real storm hits. How they'll get home... well.

Jake fully expects the tow trucks to make bank today dealing with a bunch of people who have no idea how to just stay home in weather like this, or who don't have the option.

"I can." Kauri's trembling is worse, it's filtering into his voice, making it shake.

"I know. I know. But it's not... Kauri, it's not the worst thing in the world to let someone take care of-"

"I don't need taken care of." Kauri's voice cuts vicious through Jake's, and he twists suddenly in his seat, blue eyes narrowed. His hands are already moving to unbuckle his seatbelt. "I've been taken care of, Jake, I know what that is, I know how that feels, and I don't need it!"

"No, hey, I get it. I get it. Don't-... Kauri, please-" Jake swallows, throat tight suddenly. He recognizes too much of the defensive anger in Kauri's posture, laced with nervousness that whatever he's afraid of will just start up again now.

"I don't need you," Kauri spits. The seatbelt rolls back up with a loud thump against the inside of the frame, and Jake jumps a little. "I don't need your locked doors and I don't need Nat's house. I don't need it. I can do just fine by myself, I did just fine by myself before you met me, didn't I?"

You showed up dying from infection under the bushes outside the house, Jake thinks, but bites his tongue before he says it. He takes in a deep breath. If he says the wrong thing, Kauri will leave the car and run.

He can see it in the tension in his shaking limbs, the way he holds the straps of the backpack at the ready. One wrong word and Kauri's gone, and who knows how long he'll be gone for this time.

Or if he'll just turn to ice somewhere out there because his pride's more important. Because reminding himself he has pride to lose is more important than his actual life.

Jake knows that feeling, too.

It's their turn to order.

"Good morning!" The speaker crackles and the voice is shockingly, almost insultingly cheerful. "How can I make your day better with Dunkin'?"

Jake swallows. Then he turns to the speaker. Kauri stays, for the moment. "Hey, yeah. Hi. Can I get a large coffee and... and... a large hot chocolate with mint."

"Sounds great! Any donuts or breakfast items for you today?"

Jake is painfully aware of how tense Kauri is beside him.

One wrong move, one wrong word, one single mistake and he'll lose this rescue to whatever's in his head that he's really running from.

"Yeah, I'll have just a plain doughnut and... and can I get a wake-up wrap with bacon and egg, plus hashbrowns?"

"You got it! I'll have your total at the window. Thanks for runnin' on Dunkin'!"

He pulls up a little, watching the car in front of him being handed their food and drink. He and Kauri sit in silence - he doesn't dare even turn on the radio. Jake pays with a slight smile for the cashier, who isn't the cheerful person who took their order but is instead a teenager who looks as sullen as Kauri and doesn't say a word beyond their total.

It's only after they've pulled back onto the road and gone a mile or so further that Kauri says, softly, "Why did you order me hot chocolate with mint?"

He's holding it in both hands, warming them with the heat coming through the cup. Some of the anger in him has drained away. He looks like a man who isn't sure whether or not he's staring down incoming traffic.

"Because last month, when we had the big group coffee order, you asked for that and said it's your favorite way to drink hot chocolate? You said you like the hashbrowns a lot, too. Did I get that wrong? Was it someone else who said that?"

He glances over, and Kauri's eyes are full of tears.

"No," He whispers. "No, Jake, that's-... that's right. It is. It's just... it's, um." He wipes at his eyes, shaking his head like he can shake the water out of himself. "I didn't-... That's weird that you remembered."

"That I remembered something you like? That's not that weird, Kaur."

Kauri settles back into the passenger seat, and Jake pretends not to see him rebuckle his seatbelt, how he relaxes, sipping his hot chocolate slowly. Some of the color is finally coming back to his skin, and the melted snow in his hair makes it glitter as they pass under streetlights just now beginning to turn off.

Around them, the snow is beginning to really come down heavy, and Jake keeps his hands right at ten and two, easing down the road as it starts to fill with slush and snow rapidly turning to ice.

"It is weird," Kauri says, softly. "Why would you remember that?"

"Because you're my friend," Jake says softly. "Aren't you?"

"I'm a fucking runaway," Kauri says with a sniff, wiping at his eyes again. "I'm a Box Boy. We don't have friends."

"Yeah, that's fucking bullshit. You need people as much as anyone else does. You're my friend, Kauri. And if I'm not yours, that's okay, I don't have to be. That's your decision. But you're my friend, and even if you do stupid shit like stay out in the cold all night... just call me, okay? I'll come get you. No matter what you've done, or where you are, I'll come to you."

"I did call you." Kauri takes another sip. The color in his cheeks maybe isn't just the returning warmth. "You're the only one I wanted to call."

Jake nods, slowly, taking a left turn, feeling his tires threaten to slide but find their traction. "Next time, call me before you're one step from frostbite, okay?"

"I was at least three steps from frostbite, thank you very much." Kauri sniffs, imperious, and then gives a slight half-smile, one that Jake just barely catches from the corner of his eye. "... I mean it, Jake. Thanks. for answering the phone."

"Anytime, Kauri. When we get back, I'm going to give you so many blankets to wrap up in and I expect you to use every single one of them."

"Yes, sir." Kauri's winsome smile grows, just a bit. "I promise I'm not going to freeze to death, Jake. You got me, right? No more danger."

"I don't know about that," Jake says, softly, making another turn. They're not far from Nat's, now. The sky above them is a heavy, threatening gunmetal gray, and snow is falling faster than his wipers can get rid of it. He slows to a crawl, staring through the windshield, trying to see past them.

"You'll get us there just fine," Kauri reassures him, but that isn't the danger, is it?

The real danger is in how his stomach flips when Kauri smiles like that. The real risk is in how quickly he threw himself out the door when Kauri called him.

The problem is that he's always been there to help someone wounded by abuse, and he's not sure if he's doing this because he just wants to help someone or if it's because he thinks that's what he has to do, because it's the first thing he can remember doing.

And...

Well. He might have a crush on one of the only people on Earth he absolutely cannot touch.

"You okay, Jake?" Kauri's voice is so low and deep.

Jake grits his teeth, sets his jaw, and takes a deep breath. "Yeah, Kaur. Just focus on getting warm, and I'll get you home."

For once, Kauri lets the word stand without correcting and insisting he doesn't have one.

Fuck, Stanton, you're a goddamn mess.

He makes himself think only about the road, and not about the way Kauri looks at him, too.

-

@burtlederp @finder-of-rings @endless-whump @astrobly @newandfiguringitout @doveotions @gonna-feel-that-tomorrow @pretty-face-breaker @cubeswhump @boxboysandotherwhump @oops-its-whump @whump-tr0pes @downriver914 @orchidscript @whumptywhumpdump @whumpiary @nonsensical-whump @outofangband @eatyourdamnpears @hackles-up @mylifeisonthebookshelf

[fallenqueen2]

UraIchi Week 2020 Day 7

UraIchi Week 2020

Day 7: Outliers and Creator’s Choice

Used Prompts: Outside POV

Ao3 Link

UraIchi Week 2020 Tag

Tags: UraIchi Week 2020, day7, outside POV, happy ichigo kurosaki, big brother ichigo kurosaki

~~/~~

Kauri Mitsu had been a teacher for a good chunk of her adult life. She had always prided herself on seeing what her students truly are far beneath the façade that school tended to bring out in most. There were of course exceptions; Kurosaki Yuzu was the exception this year. The young girl was just as sweet on the inside as she was on the outside.

So Mitsu had turned her attention to Yuzu’s older brother, observing him as he picked her up. She had seen him numerous times over since Karin and Yuzu had started school, he was always scowling and hidden off to the side away from the other parents who were there to pick their children up. Mitsu had never seen Kurosaki Isshin pick his daughter’s up, it was always Kurosaki Ichigo. It was like he didn’t trust anyone else to pick his sister’s up, didn’t trust anyone to act as their protector.

Mitsu could instantly tell that the rough, punk exterior Ichigo excluded was put on as much as some of his smiles as of late. However they always turned genuine when sweet little Yuzu would grab his hand and begin to babble at him about her day.

Mitsu found herself counting the number of times that genuine smile appeared and it was a disturbingly low number. She had heard about Kurosaki Ichigo through the teacher’s grapevine but she didn’t buy into any of it. The Kurosaki Ichigo she saw every day to pick up his little sisters was a sweet boy who seemed to harbour a deep sadness that she couldn’t put into proper words.  

The carer inside of Mitsu ached to see if she could help the senior get past that sadness but it was not her place. Instead she did her best to ensure Yuzu and when she could Karin was taught well and cared for while in her care.

Mitsu wasn’t sure when the change had happened. The scowl turned into a soft smile, the slouched off to the side position he usually took became straight and proud as he slowly made his way towards the others waiting and even made small talk with a few that were willing. He began to greet his sister’s with beaming smiles, hugs and hair ruffles and it warmed Mitsu’s heart to see the boy come out of his shell of untold sadness. She often wondered how this change came about and had no idea that one day she would get an answer.

When school let out, Mitsu stood back to watch as she usually did but a frown crossed her face when her usual subject of study was missing. This set a flare of panic through her as Kurosaki Ichigo was never late in picking his beloved little sisters up and she only missed Yuzu and Karin stop in front of a tall blond man with a striped hat, a fan covering most of his face and a green Geta billowing out around him.

What stopped Mitsu from interfering was the fact that Yuzu and Karin were beaming up at the man almost in the same way they smiled at their older brother. Mitsu couldn’t resist inching closer, needing to hear some of their conversation to make sense as to why such a protective brother such as Kurosaki Ichigo had sent this man in his stead.

“I told Ichi-Nii that he should have stayed home today, he was sick!” Yuzu fretted before smiling reassured when the blond patted her head in a familiar gesture.

“Don’t worry so much Yuzu-Chan, I’m taking very good care of your stubborn Nii-Chan,” The man promised, his words ringing true.

“I’m glad you are Kisuke-San! He needs someone to protect him as he protects us.” Yuzu took hold of Kisuke’s hand as she usually did with Ichigo’s. Kisuke took the action with ease as if this was normal for them.

“We can walk home on our own you know, you didn’t have to come all the way here. I can protect both of us.” Karin stated firmly, stubbornly.

“We both know that Karin-Chan, but that doesn’t mean you should have to. Just allow your brother and his boyfriend to have this peace of mind hm?” Kisuke ruffled Karin’s hair the way Ichigo usually did and did not get his head bitten off in fact Karin ducked her head to hide a blush while Yuzu beamed.

Mitsu found herself relaxing and smiling as the odd trio walked off. Mitsu began to hum as she headed back into the school building, wondering how a man such as Kisuke had managed to snag and keep the interest and love of Kurosaki Ichigo. She didn’t need to see them together to know Kurosaki Ichigo loved this Kisuke. After all, he was willing to allow Kisuke to collect and protect his precious little sisters.

[bollywoodpapa]

20 beautiful and hottest Punjabi actresses that rule the Punjabi cinema

New Post has been published on https://www.bollywoodpapa.com/265170/20-beautiful-and-hottest-punjabi-actresses-that-rule-the-punjabi-cinema/

20 beautiful and hottest Punjabi actresses that rule the Punjabi cinema

The Punjabi cinema, commonly known as Pollywood is the Punjabi language film industry in the states of Punjab in India. Many Bollywood stars have worked in Punjabi films. At the same time, many Punjabi stars have managed to become a mark in Hindi cinema. 

In this article, we are going to introduce the top 20 actresses of Punjabi Cinema. Take a look.

1. Simran Kaur Mundi

Punjabi Actress, model and former Femina Miss India and Miss India Universe 2008, Simran Kaur Mundi who made her acting debut in the Hindi film “Jo Hum Chahein” in 2011.  In 2013 she made her Punjabi film debut with “Best of Luck” which create a spot amongst the top-grossing Punjabi films. She was last seen in “Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon” opposite comedian Kapil Sharma. She is one of the most acclaimed actresses in Punjabi cinema.

2. Gul Panag

Gul Panag is an Indian model, actress, voice actress primarily appears in Bollywood films. She is a former beauty queen, who competed in the Miss Universe pageant. She debuted in the 2003 Hindi film Dhoop. Since then, she has worked in films like Jurm and the TV series Kashmeer. Her first Punjabi film is Sarsa. Her notable films in Bollywood include Dor, Dhoop, Manorama Six Feet Under, Hello, Straight, and Ab Tak Chhappan 2.

3. Surveen Chawla

The most beautiful and talented actress Surveen Chawla started her career through the television soap operas in the earlier days and ended up appearing in the films. Surveen made her big-screen debut with the Kannada movie “Paramesha Panwala” in 2008. In 2011, she appeared in the Punjabi film “Dharti”. She also worked in some more Punjabi movies like “Taur Mittran Di”, “Saadi Love Story”, “Singh vs Kaur”, “Lucky Di Unlucky Story” and “Disco Singh”. She is known for her portrayals in the movies and serials like Hate Story 2 (2014), Ugly (2013) and 24 (season 2) (2016) etc along with many others.

4. Navneet Kaur Dhillon

The Former miss world contestant Navneet Kaur is one of the cutest and beautiful models and actresses in the Punjabi industry. She was the winner of Pond’s 50th edition of Femina Miss World India 2013.  Her blonde hairs, light brown eyes, and hottest body figure made her cutest Punjabi girl in the world in the present time.

5. Himanshi Khurana

Himanshi Khurana started her acting career at the age of 17 when she became Miss Ludhiana in 2011. She made her debut in the Punjabi Music Industry with the song “Jodi – Big Day Party” in 2010. Himanshi Khurana made her debut in Punjabi cinema as an actor with the Punjabi hit movie, “Sadda Haq” which helped her in gaining fame. She is presently considered as best in the industry and is likely to come in many Punjabi movies. She gained a good fan following for her incredible acting in music videos.

6. Oshin Sai

Oshin sai are one of the youngest actresses and models in Punjabi cinema. She made her first appearance in Punjabi cinema with Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh for “Mukhtiar Chadha” in 2015. This talented and gorgeous actress gained very much reputation in Punjabi films with her incredible acting in her first debut movie.

7. Ginni Kapoor

Ginni Kapoor also is known as the dimple girl of the Punjabi industry is a famous Punjabi model and actor.  she has established herself a place in the Punjabi industry so much so that every leading singer wants to work with her. Ginni Kapoor came to limelight with the megahit Punjabi song Black suit. She featured in the various Punjabi music videos such as; time table, Att krti, Chandigarh waliye return, and asla and got a noticeable success in the Punjabi music industry with Resham Anmol song track “bhabhi thodi end aa”.

8. Neeru Bajwa

Neeru Bajwa is a Canadian-born Punjabi actress.  She started her career in 1998 with Dev Anand’s Bollywood film “Main Solah Baras Ki” and then moved on to working in Indian soap operas and Punjabi films. She made her first appearance in Punjabi cinema “Asa Nu Maan Watna Da” in 2004. Her 2012 film “Jatt and Juliet 2″ opposite Diljit Dosanjh h broke all the previous opening day collection records for Punjabi cinema. Along with Punjabi she also worked in some Hindi and English films.

9. Sonam Bajwa

Sonam Bajwa is a model and actress active in Punjabi and Tamil cinema. She debuted in the Punjabi film industry in 2013 with “Best of Luck“, she also worked in Tamil movie “Kappal”. She participated in the Femina Miss India contest in 2012. She played the leading female role in the 2014 blockbuster Punjabi film “Punjab 1984″.She was nominated once in PTC Punjabi cinema awards for the best actress.

10. Japji Khaira

Japji Khaira is one of the famous actresses and models in the Punjabi film industry. She won the title ‘Miss World Punjaban 2006’. Born on July 1985 in Punjab, India, at the age of 22 Japji’s first appearance was in “Mitti Wajaan Maardi”. She does so many Punjabi movies in the last couple of years some of them are “Ishq Brandi”, “Singh vs Kaur”, “Dharti”, she starred in 7 movies till now.

11. Parul Gulati

Parul Gulati is a Rohtak born Indian actress who primarily appears in Punjabi films. She is a trained actor who has studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), London. Gulati has appeared as the lead actress in Punjabi films Burraahh (2012), Romeo Ranjha (2014) and Zorawar (2016).

12. Neetu Singh

Neetu Singh is a model and Punjabi actress. She came to the showbiz spotlight when she won Miss PTC Punjabi in 2008. Soon after she came to a famous music video “Call Jalandhar Ton” by Harbhajan Maan. She debuted in Dil Tainu Karda Ae Pyaar with Gulzar Inder Chahal in 2012. Her latest movie Saadi Love Story was released in January 2013. In addition to that, she also appeared in the Bollywood heist film Special 26 released in February 2013.

13. Kulraj Randhawa

Kulraj Randhawa is a very beautiful and Most popular Indian film actress. Kulraj Randhawa mainly appeared in Hindi and Punjabi Language films. Kulraj Randhawa was made her acting debut film Mannat in 2006. She is best known for her work in the “Kareena” role acting in the popular tv show Kareena Kareena.

14. Dhrriti Saharan

Dhrriti Saharan is an actress and a singer. Saharan made her debut in the Punjabi movie Pure Punjabi for which she was nominated for the Best Debut Actress Category at the PTC Punjabi Film Awards in 2013. She also appeared in the video for the hit song “Billo Thumka” from the film Pinky Moge Wali. Sadda Haq is her second film, for which she won the Critics Choice Award for Best Actress at the 2014 PTC Punjabi Film Awards. She also worked in the Telugu film Love Touch and Teri Meri Ek Jindari, directed by Partho Ghosh.

15. Mahi Gill

Mahi Gill is an Indian actress, working in the Bollywood and Panjabi film industry. She is best known for her role of Paro in Anurag Kashyap’s critically acclaimed Hindi film Dev.D. She started her career in Punjabi films before making a debut in Bollywood. Gill got her first break with the Punjabi based Bollywood film Hawayein and has done a couple of Punjabi films along with theatre.

16. Monica Bedi

Monica Bedi is an actress and television presenter. She debuted in Hindi films in the mid-1990s. Bedi acted in the Punjabi movie Sirphire (2012), directed by Harjit Singh Ricky. She is well known after participating in Bigg Boss 2 and also for playing a negative character in Star Plus’ Saraswatichandrafrom 2013-2014.

17. Mandy Takhar

Mandy Takhar is a British born Punjabi actress. She has starred in a number of Punjabi movies since her debut with the famous Punjabi singer Babbu Mann in the film, Ekam – Son of Soil in 2010. Since then Mandy became the crush of many fans in Punjab. She looks fabulous in Punjabi as well as Western outfits.

18. Gurleen Chopra

Gurleen Chopra is a Punjabi actress and model. She made her debut in the Hindi film she is so sexy and very beautiful lady in india.Indian Babu. Her next Hindi film Kuch To Gadbad Hai in which she played an orphan girl Riya. She signed and shot her first Tamil film Thullal in 2004, but it released only in 2007. She then started acting in Punjabi films. Her film Hashar opposite Babbu Mann was a hit.

19. Minissha Lamba

Minissha Lamba is an Indian actress who appears in Hindi films. She made her debut with Yahaan(2005). Her other notable films include Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd. (2007), Bachna Ae Haseeno (2008), Well Done Abba (2009), and Bheja Fry 2 (2011). She also seen in Punjabi films Heer and Hero (2013) and Double Di Trouble (2014).

20. Kainaat Arora

Kainaat Arora was born in a Pahari-Punjabi family in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. She is the second cousin of late actress Divya Bharti. She appeared in Punjabi film Faraar (2015). She made her debut in the Bollywood comedy film Grand Masti. She also appeared in Mankatha and Khatta Meetha and sang in Malayalam films.

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Connoisseur highlights: 5 tantalising experiences to try in New Zealand

Whereas New Zealand supplies many a visitor an impressive vacation, it additionally supplies lovers of luxurious, connoisseurs of distinction and people of impeccable style an beautiful alternative to mix the finer issues in life. From wonderful eating, helicopter cruises, fly-fishing and impressed buying to attractive blue oceans, sea-food cruises and scrumptious wines, you are able to do all of it in New Zealand.

No matter your age, gender or desire for luxurious, there may be an incredible array of experiences that may be created and loved in New Zealand that vary from the adrenalin-fuelled to the mellow and dreamy.

Couture

For an expensive style hit, the most well liked new couturier and bespoke label, Dadelszen, has reached a sensational excessive notice inside the couture corridors of New Zealand’s style world. The extremely curated area for women and men to view premium labels has created a much-anticipated degree of design that’s testomony to personalisation and customisation. The appointment solely periods with the Dadelszen workforce attest to the truth that each element of your buying expertise is taken care of in refined type.

Dadelszen provide a variety of informal to extra formal fabrications, all sensible but elegant and easy. Superbly lower trousers, slacks and skirts create the proper associate to cashmere. Whereas flowing silk and cotton clothes hug the physique in luxurious type. From the valet parking as you arrive, to the welcome you obtain while you enter the beautiful area, this expertise is designed to entice your senses. Each need is certain to be met within the lavish area crammed with the best materials from all over the world.

Whisky

Assume whisky and also you have a tendency to consider Celtic mists swirling throughout the Scottish Highlands, or previous barrels sitting on peat flooring on the outskirts of Dublin. But, New Zealand has a thriving whisky commerce, with excursions and tastings to swimsuit essentially the most discerning palette.

There’s an attention-grabbing historical past to whisky, or water-of-life because it was referred to in days passed by. The commonest story is that the Irish monks introduced distilling perfumes again to Eire from their journeys to Mediterranean international locations and used these to distil a wonderful golden liquid, aromatic and fragrant.

Regardless of the reality, whisky has change into a foreign money of wonderful ingesting all over the world. And lest we under-estimate the event of whisky in New Zealand, a 1988 bottle of whisky made in Willowbank was lately awarded “southern hemisphere whisky of the 12 months” within the Whisky Bible.

The custom in New Zealand began means again within the 1830’s with the arrival of the Scottish settlers and has gone on to nice heights. Whisky excursions to the likes of the Cardrona Distillery with its wonderful custom of whisky craftsmanship is about to enlighten even the well-informed connoisseur. A tour that’s designed to supply insights into their water supply and the way the malt is milled, mashed, fermented, distilled and naturally, matured into the wonderful tasting spirits they’ve change into well-known for is a extremely rated expertise.

The Cardrona Distillery additionally presents a restricted variety of casks to a couple personal consumers to create a private buy of their very own mix. The cask is stuffed and left to mature; the style of a barrel is customized made with a touch of vanilla, floral or dried fruit flavours. The distinctive mix develops into an expression of the person; a take a look at of time and flavour for the whisky connoisseur.

Fishing the seas and the rivers

If fishing is your factor, then a heli-fishing expertise is certain to set your spirit hovering. Think about flying over the Hauraki Gulf and the encircling islands, watching whales and dolphins gliding by the ocean. Observe the sting rays of their marine habitat, all from the consolation of your chartered helicopter. Depart from Auckland and head out to one of many idyllic fishing spots alongside the Hauraki Gulf and the encircling islands. Among the greatest fishing on the earth might be discovered alongside the sub-tidal reefs of the North-East shoreline.

A visit out with Heletranz, the pioneers of heli-fishing who’ve a repute for making fishermen very completely satisfied, is certain to get anybody excited. And with all of your gear wants taken care of together with rods, reels, deal with and bait you don’t have anything to fret about besides catching the massive one.

In case your go to takes you to the South Island then a fly-fishing expertise on the Lindis shall be a triumph. The Lindis is completely located for fly-fishing on one of many biggest stretches of water for fly-fishing on the earth, the Ahuriri River. This river is internationally famend, and has been rated high 5 on the earth.

The river runs straight in entrance of the Lindis lodge so friends can stroll right down to the water’s edge to see the trout, glistening as they go speeding by the clear waters. What might be higher than a day spent within the quiet panorama swishing a silken line out over the river?

Not solely does the Lindis provide a spectacular vary of actions however it is usually one among New Zealand’s latest luxurious lodges, created with modern structure that flows into the panorama, mixing superbly into the terrain. Every of the suites presents an uninterrupted view of the encircling Ahuriri Valley, and is designed for luxurious and luxury. With personal sitting space, each inside and outside, this lodge lends itself to indulgent rest in chic type.

Hand in hand with the luxurious suites is refined delicacies that pays its deepest respects to native produce. The top chef and his workforce put together seasonally contemporary substances in a uniquely New Zealand type, all paired with the best wines, for a eating expertise that’s designed to be savoured.

Luxurious seafood cruise

One other nice method to dine in type is to go on a privately chartered seafood cruise, the place being served the freshest seafood is only one a part of the general fine-dining expertise. Beautiful contemporary platters containing King salmon, Cloudy Bay clams, and scrumptious Greenshell mussels are simply a number of the delights to be tasted. The ocean-food is accompanied by well-paired wines to create an indulgent and unforgettable luncheon out at sea

If like most, you might be involved concerning the dietary high quality and sustainability of the salmon, then relaxation assured, Marlborough Sound King salmon is raised in one of many cleanest environments on the earth. The ocean farms begin on the Springs close to Takaka, and prolong all the best way right down to the cool deep waters of the Sounds. And that’s why a declare to one of the best salmon on the earth hails from the Marlborough Sounds of New Zealand is one made in confidence.

Actions to unwind

There are golf packages that embody journeys to {the golfing} capital, Queenstown, within the South Island at signature programs like Jacks Level, Millbrook and The Hills. A visit to the Bay of Islands on New Zealand’s North Island may embody a spherical on the magnificent Kauri cliffs, a world-class golf-club that has been ranked 18th greatest within the World by Golf Journal’s world high 100. These journeys are all dealt with by consultants and all of the transport, journey and logistics might be outsourced for a very stress-free vacation.

Understandably although, golf is just not for everybody. If adrenalin-sport is in your agenda, a day spent racing round a purpose-built racetrack at Highlands motorsport could be higher suited. Steering a 4-cylinder Radical SR3, just like the Le Mans autos, with aerodynamic bodywork for elevated downforce, lowered drag and slick tires for exhilarating corners is nice enjoyable.

Or take the slopes for a ski with Southern Lakes Heliski, who provide an incredible 17 mountain ranges and over 800 runs to select from. That ought to positively energise you as you intend among the best days of your life out on the slopes. There are quite a few packages to select from, relying in your temper and talent. The guides and pilots are extremely skilled and adept at offering world-class experiences for each skiers and snowboarders. You simply have to pitch up, head out with the workforce onto one of many pristine ranges and have enjoyable. Lunch is served on a snow desk amidst the breath-taking surroundings, and after just a few extra journeys you’ll be taken again to base.

Magnificence is within the eyes of the beholder, luxurious is totally different for everybody, and a connoisseur’s style is made up from a end result of experiences. Discover your magnificence, your private selection of defining luxurious and change into the connoisseur of your greatest life. Take your subsequent journey to New Zealand to fly, fish, ski, sleep, dive, eat and construct your individual foundation for judging the finer issues.

Veronika Vermeulen is Director of Aroha New Zealand Excursions Ltd. Aroha New Zealand Excursions Ltd. has been providing 100% tailor-made journeys and personal guided luxurious experiences in New Zealand since 2000.

If you want to be a visitor blogger on A Luxurious Journey Weblog in an effort to elevate your profile, please contact us.

The post Connoisseur highlights: 5 tantalising experiences to try in New Zealand appeared first on Tripstations.

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One of the things with social media is that you are constantly being reminded of what happened 1,2 3 or X number of year ago and so it was the other day when we were staying at Rays Rest and Facebook reminded us that it was 3 years since we had visited Port Jackson. Since we were heading for the Coromandel with the original plan to spend a few days in the area we decided that we would head instead to the end of the road and go back to Port Jackson.

For those of you who don’t know where Port Jackson is. It’s really very simple drive north to Colville and then follow the road to the left for 30 kms. The tar seal ends at Colville and then it’s a fairly narrow gravel road for the rest of the way following the coast. The road is in good condition and mostly free of ruts and corrugations but it’s still a road that requires serious concentration taking much longer to drive than you might expect.

One highlight for us as we drove the road was when I spotted a pod of dolphins frolicking in the water closer to the shore than I have ever seen. Sadly Murphy’s law applied here and with absolutely no place to pull over to grab some photos. I guess we could have just parked on the road but rather decided to drive a little further looking for a place to stop and then —- well too late.

The road is lined on both sides in places by huge Pohutakawa trees and although we have never driven the road when they are in flower it’s not hard to imagine how spectacular the display would be in early December.

Earlier this year the road suffered badly with the two cyclones that hit New Zealand and whilst the road has been well repaired in most places there is an area just before you reach the DOC Camp at Fantail Bay where the road narrows significantly. Still wide enough for our motorhome but not much room for error.

From Fantail Bay the road, and I cannot believe I am saying this again, narrows! It also becomes much more twisting and turning with a number of blind corners before you start the long climb uphill to get over to the otherside and down to the beach below. I must confess that I was a little worried about how well the Fiat would handle such a long uphill climb on a metal road but we maintained a good momentum and crested the hill without any issues. It might have been a different story if we met someone coming the other way and I had to stop but thankfully this didn’t happen.

We arrived at Port Jackson and registered with the camp managers Fred and Dave who told us that although they where expecting a busy weekend there should be plenty of space so park where you like. Taking them at their word we found a magnificent spot overlooking the beach on a nice level spot. Over the next two days as the camp started to fill up we began to feel a little guilty about the way we had parked but figured that if the camp managers had a problem with it they could always come and ask us to move.

Last time we stayed here we walked to Fletcher Bay at the end of the road a walk of around 7 kms each way. This time we decided that we would get the bikes out and ride there. Dave the camp manager reminded us that there’s only one hill and he’s right it is one hill that covers half the distance uphill and the other half downhill. Not quite true but it is quite a hill. There are some spectacular views along the coast from the road and it’s a trip well worth making if you are at Port Jackson.

We reached Fletcher Bay the site of another DOC Camp and sadly one that was also ravaged by a storm earlier this year. With the main access route to the camp washed away only about 25% of the camp was usable. Funny thing is when we visited 3 years ago part of the access had been washed away then as well.

Fletcher Bay looks like a great place to stay with a very attractive beach as well as a spectacular coastal drive to get you there. I was told that it should be all up and running with full capacity available before Christmas.

There are a number of walks in this area with one departing from the camp heading towards Fletcher Bay along the ridgeline of the nearby farm.  It’s about a 15 minute stroll along the beach to reach the start of the walk proper, it was here that we came across the deceased Gannet. We have come across plenty of dead birds over the years but this was the first time we have come across one of these, we wondered if someone might have dumped it there.

The walk starts off with my favourite thing a set of steps leading to the ridgeline. I know that I shouldn’t complain but with bad knees I really feel those steps. From the gate at the top of the stairs the walk follows quite close to the edge of the cliff with a warning sign about strong winds. It’s not hard to imagine as you walk along being blown off the cliff. The total walk is about 1 hour to the road including another set of steps up and down another ridge to get you there. From the road you have the choice of returning the way you came or following the road back to the camp. If you do choose to take the road it’s downhill and flat for almost the whole way. The only issue this way is you need to cross a ford (stream) so be prepared to take your shoes off or get them wet.

We decided that we would walk back along the track and as we reached the head of the steps back to the beach we spotted a pod of dolphins swimming just off the shore. We stood there for 10 or so minutes watching them and then decided to wander back to the motorhome. For the next 4 or 5 hours that pod of dolphins swum up and down the beach numerous times coming close to people who were swimming in the water. It is by far the longest I have ever seen dolphins stay in an area.

To the left of the campsite is what remains of the old jetty, these days not much more than a rundown concrete structure. I was interested to see the Hydrographic Survey mark never having seen one of these before. Walking back along the rocks towards the camp we noticed lots of fish remains we were however very concerned with the size of some of the skeletons that remained I am sure they wouldn’t have measured 30cm. Some appeared very undersized. Saturday the camp really filled up, probably getting to half capacity and we found ourselves surrounded by other campers including a large family group with multiple tents from Columbia, a couple from Tauranga and a large family group from Hamilton that have been coming to Port Jackson for 48 years and now have the 4th generation camping in this fantastic place.

One really interesting thing about the DOC Camps in Coromandel is that they are all now “pack in pack out” so you need to take your rubbish away with you. However to make things easier they now collect all your food scraps in little buckets they hand out. They then use these food scraps to feed the compost and worm farms they have on site and are going to use these to propagate Kauri and native  plants in the area which now cannot be imported from other areas due to the dieback disease. It was amazing how little rubbish we had after putting all our food scraps in the bucket.

I never remember peoples names but do a good job of remembering peoples motorhomes so on Sunday when Sarah and I where wandering along the beach and I noticed two vans pull in I said to her we saw those vans last year in Whananaki. Sure enough it was two ladies who names I have again forgotten that had stayed at the same place as us almost exactly one year ago. I think one of the great things about coming to a place like this is the family atmosphere with everyone getting on with each other. It makes it an enjoyable place to be.

In all we spent 4 nights at Port Jackson and it must have been the first Labour Weekend in years where the sun actually shone for the whole weekend. Each evening we got treated to fabulous sunsets. It was during these times that I asked Sarah which was her favourite place here or our real favourite place, Puriri Bay in Northland. I think if the road to get here wasn’t so bad it might be a close thing. Still absolutely worth a visit to this place.

To view the places we have visited click here to see them on Google maps. You can click the links to read the blog about that area. [cardoza_facebook_like_box] To view the Ratings we have done for other camps click here  [jetpack_subscription_form]

Camping at Port Jackson One of the things with social media is that you are constantly being reminded of what happened 1,2 3 or X number of year ago and so it was the other day when we were staying at…